#-- (mountain) -> having no support so feeling she has to work even harder or start from square one again (falling down when nearing the top)

[thesnailtail]

Who's the most Sisyphus out of mmj and why?

Discuss.

;; GREEK MYTHOLOGY IN MY INBOX

;; tldr because i went on: airi, mainly due to everything going on with qt pre-mmj.

;; the myth of sisyphus is about an evil tyrant (the named sisyphus) who killed the visitors to his kingdom (corinth, formerly ephyra) to show his power, violating every law of hospitality that the greeks had. he also cheated death twice i believe, breaking a promise with hades at least once. all of this piled up until his own death, in which he was stuck to roll a boulder up a mountain only for when he gets to the top to have it roll to the bottom, and he was sentenced to do this for all eternity! very similar to the myth of tantalus actually. out of both of the "sentenced to do something pointless for eternity" myths, personally i prefer tantalus. there's just something so funny about it. anyway-

;; first thought of mine? airi. just vibes wise. also everything (pre-mmj) going on with happy everyday was a pointless task where she was pushing a boulder (wanting to do concerts and whatnot again) up a mountain (against her managers) only to have it fall down (being ignored completely.) but honestly? any of mmj can fit the pointless task aspect.

;; i can't see any of them being evil tyrants though. cheating death though? again i can see airi doing that.

;; so in conclusion, i believe airi is the most sisyphus out of mmj because all her efforts regarding qt, happy everyday and her managers were in the end pointless because she was never listened to, and she has the "i would cheat death" energy

[cinderella-ish]

Let's Talk About Kyoru!

I shared a little while ago (in my first-ever analysis post!) that I don't really have a lot in common with Tohru or Kyo, and I didn't really "get" them or their relationship right away. Today, someone asked on Reddit "What are your personal thoughts on Kyou x Tohru?" and I wrote out a long comment explaining how I grew to love them. So, here's an expanded and edited version of that comment, edited for Tumblr!

I loved both Tohru and Kyo as characters from the start. How could I not? Kyo is an endlessly meme-able, over-the-top tsundere cat-boy with a heart of gold, and Tohru is a lovable, overly-giving people-pleaser who's also a total space cadet prone to some very funny mishaps (that are maybe a little less funny once you understand her character).

What I didn't see at first was how their romantic relationship was an essential part of both Tohru's and Kyo's character development. Their arcs couldn't really have ended any other way, with how Takaya-sensei set them up.

See, Tohru begins the series in denial about the reality of her mother's death and unable to ask for or accept help, even from those closest to her, and even when people offer their help or support up front. She risks her own health and even her life to avoid burdening others, likewise risking herself to protect her memory of her mother (represented by the framed photo).

And Kyo begins the series convinced defeating Yuki will erase his past "sins," or alleviate his guilt from both Kyoko's and his mother's deaths. It's a Sisyphean task and he knows it, but he keeps at it because it's better than the alternative (actually dealing with his trauma) and possibly because he thinks he deserves to suffer defeat after defeat. He's in an extremely fragile place, having just returned from his trip to the mountains, and he truly believes he only hurts the people he loves.

I also think there's some small part of Kyo that's fighting to keep going, even from the start of the series. It's a twisted way to go about living, but he is still trying to live. He has the possibility of a life outside the Cat's House, and he's working his ass off to try and achieve it, even if it's most likely impossible. To me, that's not a character who's given up or accepted his fate.

Similarly, I think there's a small part of Tohru that knows she'll eventually need to accept that her mother is dead and make the decisions that are best for herself. It's harder to see this inner desire in Tohru than in Kyo, but I think it becomes clear when she chooses to stay with the Sohmas rather than return to her grandfather's house. She believed, at that point, that her grandfather was the only person left who knew and loved her mother, yet she knew she would be happier continuing to live with Kyo, Yuki, and Shigure. With the encouragement of her grandfather (and with Kyo and Yuki's heroic rescue mission), she moves forward on the path that will make her happiest.

It took me really digging deep and understanding each of their individual arcs to love them as a couple as much as I do now.

On first pass, it was obvious to me how much Tohru meant to Kyo, and the ways she directly countered his extremely low self-esteem and overwhelming guilt. However, I didn't really understand what Tohru liked about Kyo in a romantic sense.

I think this was probably due to my own anxiousness around men who yell, which strongly put me off of Kyo as a romantic lead. I also didn't like how he promised to protect Tohru again at the end, but that was again due to my own hangups. I have a strong dislike of being "protected" by my romantic partners (it feels patronizing and usually is done without asking or considering my own feelings about being protected). But I'll come back to that.

We know from the start that Tohru tends to reject attempts to care for her, or simply makes sure no one will be in a position to offer that care to her. She doesn't ask to stay with either of her best friends and she doesn't remain with her family during the renovations.

And Kyo is the only person who not only recognizes when Tohru's diminishing her own needs, but he's also the only person who consistently makes sure she has the support she needs, even if she initially refuses it. He tells her it's okay to get angry, asks her to vent her frustrations to him, and reminds her it's okay to be selfish.

I think with anyone else, she would have burned herself out and cut off most of her uncomfortable emotions. Kyo takes care of Tohru, and that's what she needs, because Tohru Honda has very different needs than I do (and that's okay!).

Also, Kyo doesn't yell nearly as much after the first season, but something I realized while writing my series on Kyo and Momiji's relationship is that most of Kyo's yelling is him trying to protect her and the others he cares for (like Momiji). He yelled because he was terrified of hurting her again, or of letting her get hurt through inaction. He'd yell at her when she did something that could've gotten her hurt, or he'd yell at others when they did something that could hurt her. That poor boy was carrying so much guilt over Kyoko's death, he made it his entire personality to try and protect Tohru, including from himself.

At Kyoko's grave, when he promised to protect Tohru for life, I initially read that as a step backwards for him. Wasn't that just a recipe for more guilt? After all, he couldn't possibly protect her from everything. But after some reflection, I think that was him finally internalizing the lesson from that last fight with Yuki: he was protecting her all along by making her smile and being there for her. That's Kyo recognizing that his presence is good for Tohru, and it's a huge shift in how he sees himself and his own self-worth.

So that's really why Kyo and Tohru are so perfect together. Kyo needed someone to help him see his own worth, and Tohru did that simply by needing him. Meanwhile, Tohru needed to prioritize her own needs and happiness, and she did that by admitting how much she needed Kyo. It's a loop that feeds back into itself. The more they care for each other, the more they overcome their initial mistaken beliefs about themselves.

I once shared in response to an ask that I believe Tohru needed Kyo even more than he needed her. Thinking of how badly she was suffering during the hospital arc, when she thought he'd rejected her, and how much she repressed her heartbreak during that time, I think it would've destroyed her if he hadn't decided to try and move forward with her. It would've taken a long, long time before she would've been able to open up to anyone like that again, and she may not have been able to ever again, given how hard it was for her to admit her feelings for Kyo in the first place.

So, I love them. Took me a while, but I'm fully aboard the Kyoru train now.

[chrysopoeias]

How do you think Riza and Roy would handle the parenthood? Clearly, they didn’t have a lot of positive role models when they were kids.

Very mixed, I think, but still trying everything they can. Well, I want to focus on Riza, because in my delusions she has the baby alone while Roy is insane in the mountains (03 verse). Riza did not tell Roy about her pregnancy. 

It is very difficult, depressing and lonely for her. She does not feel love for her baby, only stress and fear. Riza may not get much support either. She is a single mother in the 1910s and she got pregnant from her boss who abandoned her. I think the core team will stick up for her, for the most part, but she gets a lot of judgement. I like the idea or Gracia babysitting, which is a relieve for Riza, but she does not understand her. Gracia wanted to be a mother, and she goes on about the wonders of motherhood and how sweet and easy Riza’s baby is, making Riza feel more alone and misunderstood and ungrateful for struggling this much. Everything about it just sucks and hurts emotionally and physically.

Riza also has to go back to work barely recovered from birth to pay the bills and leave her tiny baby behind. I imagine she is afraid she has turned out like her father, being a single parent who does not love her own child and spends too much time on work. She has killed innocent people, so I imagine she was baffled she was allowed to take the baby home, and is terrified she will kill him too. She is a war criminal and her baby is innocent. What if she taints him, and has doomed him before his life even started?

But every time her son laughs at her she feels bad for thinking only negative things. She wants him to have a good life. She still tries the best she can and will do anything for him. She feeds, clothes, hugs, plays, reads, holds, talks to him etc whenever she can, but she’s too unwell to realise that she does all that because she loves him. I do want her to get better eventually and realise that her child loves her no matter what. He loves her because she is his mother. Once she loves him back, he is her priority now, and for the first time she develops a fear of dying because she doesn’t want to leave her child behind like her own mother did. She loves him!!!!! But yeah,,parenting is hard for well adjusted people who want children, so for Riza for it is always going to be harder I suppose. 

I do imagine Riza is forever marked by everything she went through and is not always the best parent. She has no idea what she is doing and never had a good example. Even if Roy gets a redemption arc and she has his support later. Love can help, but it’s not a cure that takes Riza’s flaws and traumas away. 

Like when the kid grows up and looks back at his childhood, his experience overall was fine and he will think Riza did the best she could, he loves her, but he knows it would have been better for Riza if she had therapy instead of children.

[mischievouslittlecreature]

@justrainandcoffee @evita-shelby

I saw this, said, "hm, Imma have to think on that for a little while" and then promptly forgot about it 😂

This became a whole ass essay because I love to yap and overexplain shit.

If I am being completely and brutally honest, much as she would appreciate the offer of matchmaking, I don't think Lucy is capable of being in a romantic relationship outside of Tommy.

Ultimately it comes down to her trauma and how it has massively altered her ability to be both physically and emotionally vulnerable with people. (I'm assuming she has the same backstory here as she has in Love Me). Tommy is very much the exception and not the rule when it comes to her issues and complicated feelings about sex and emotionally intimacy. Even her involvement with Grace, which was deeper than any of their other partners, hinges on him being present as a stabilizing and protective figure throughout that relationship.

There are two variations, outside of the suicide one, that I could see playing out:

One:

After her suicide attempt gets foiled, Lucy packs up her things and leaves. No one, especially Tommy or Eva, would ever see or hear from her again. She would fully expect no one to care that she's gone, especially since Eva doesn't like her and I'm a little unclear on how much this version of Tommy would even care if Lucy left. I'm kinda assuming he would be fine with it since he gets Eva and their children, and he'd just forget about Lucy.

The best case scenario for her would be if her brother Teddy is alive in this timeline. He'd go with her and take care of her. He has experience studying in mental health, so he actually may be one of the best people out there to help support her and get her to work through her depression. After she has to hold him back from hunting down Tommy and Eva with a machete for breaking his big sister's heart.

They might go to the mountains to be with their Romani relatives. Or maybe just self isolate. Probably start up a ranch with horses. I don't see her falling in love again. The experience would be scarring enough that she'd not feel safe enough to be that vulnerable with anyone ever again. And I think she would believe that no one deserves to be "burdened" with her as a partner (not true of course, but low self esteem is a bitch).

She wouldn't necessarily need a romantic relationship to be at least somewhat content. There would still be a lingering loneliness and melancholy that would forever cling to her, but she'd try to make herself feel better by reminding herself that she did the right thing by letting Tommy go be with his real family rather than waste his time on her.

If Teddy is dead in this timeline too, that makes things a lot trickier. It's still possible she could go find her Romani relatives in the mountains. But recovery would be a lot harder without someone to support her.

Two:

Eva or Tommy drags her kicking and screaming back to Birmingham, sits her ass down, and tells her to not feel guilty. This would take a lot of effort especially on Eva's part to convince Lucy that the divorce isn't fully her fault--and she may have to lie through her teeth to do it. And I'm not sure if Eva cares enough about Lucy to go to all that trouble 😅. Combine that with Tommy begging and crying enough, and they might be able to convince her to stay. The guilt would continue to eat away at her, but maybe with time and if she sees Eva happy either by herself or with someone else, she could end up okay.

I could also see a variation of this, where Lucy leaves but Eva and Tommy don't get back together (maybe Tommy feels too guilty, is trying to find Lucy to bring her back home, Eva decides she still doesn't want to be with him anymore, etc.) and she finds out somehow that Eva has maybe remarried or something, and comes back, likely just planning to peep around and see if everyone's doing okay without them knowing she's checking in on them before leaving again. Maybe Tommy bumps into her somehow while she's trying to be sneaky and they reconnect.

I cannot stop thinking about the Eva-Lucy-Tommy drama an how to fix that.

This morning I was reading the last answers and Juli said something to Lee like Eva "I need no man" Smith actually needs him and damn. It hurt 😭😭. Same as what Laur said about Lucy last night 🤧. My girls deserve happiness and I just want send Rose to chase Tommy with a shovel.

But, it's not happy ending per se because this is the saddest ot3 ever 😔, but two what if?

An Eva!What if and a Lucy!What if? What if they manage to be "happy"? No suicides involved?

@emotionalcadaver @evita-shelby

[gayredshoe]

Hmmm Huntlow brainrot. Time for a "What if they met on the mountain Hunter mentioned coven scouts have to survive climbing down from in ASIAS" fic.

-------‐---------------

Camping was one of Willow's favorite things to do with her dad's.

It's been a tradition to go every year since she was a kid and she loved it more than anything. Being surrounded by her element, with the two people who love and support her the most was something she cherished deeply.

This year though she was having a harder time enjoying it than normal. 

Right before they left there was a presentation at school, talking about their futures and Covens, and suddenly she was hit with the realization that once she graduated that was it. She'd never be able to practice her plant magic ever again, her passion would be sealed away and she'd be stuck doing something she hates, that she's not even good at!

She was hoping going camping would take her mind off things, but the thought of coming here one day and feeling no connection to the earth and plants around her? To this no longer being her element anymore? 

It hurt. It hurt more than she had previously thought.

Usually her dad's were a source of comfort for that too, but lately their words of encouragement felt so empty to her. It was all "you'll get better eventually, we believe in you!" And "I know it doesn't come easy now but with time and practice I know you'll get the hang of it sweetheart." 

But that's just the thing! She doesn't want to get better at Abomination magic! She doesn't want to practice and get better with time! She doesn't want to play second fiddle to Amity her entire life! She doesn't want any of that!

She wants to practice her magic, even if she knows it's selfish. 

She couldn't just tell her dad's that though, they worked so hard to help her and she knew overall the Abomination track had better opportunities, she knew they were doing what was best for her. She did, but…

She just couldn't take it right now.

And that's how she found herself absent-mindedly climbing the knee. She wasn't even too high up, still on the base of the thigh, and she could probably find her way back if she used her plant magic. But things just got so overwhelming she didn't even think before taking off into the woods, using her plant magic to move through the earth and away from her parents without them being able to follow her.

She knew they were probably worried, but she figured if she was eventually going to spend the rest of her life being cut off from one of the things she loves the most, then she should enjoy it while she still has it.

Sitting down on a near-by rock she took a deep breath and surveyed her surroundings. It was peaceful up here, quiet, and she was grateful for the temporary peace to help calm her mind.

That peace was shattered pretty quickly though by an unexpected shout somewhere a little further up the mountain.

Willow barely even had time to react before something burst through the trees and came right at her, so she acted purely on instinct when she cast out vines to ensnare everything around her in order to protect herself. 

There was loud yelp and she opened her eyes to find the entire clearing around her absolutely covered in thick vines of her own making. In those vines was a very angry looking slitherbeast, and also what looked to be a scout from the Emperor's coven who had definitely been running away from said slitherbeast.

"Oh my gosh!" She exclaimed, "Are you alright? I'm so sorry!" She went to let them go but as soon as the vines weakend the slitherbeast started breaking free.

"Wait!" The scout cried out, "I'll just cut myself free! Don't let it out!" 

She glanced at his spear on the forest floor and then at his arms which were completely wrapped up. So while keeping part of her concentration on the rest of her vines, she spun another spell circle to grab it with more roots and slice the scout free.

He fell on his face with another yelp and she winced a little at the impact. Right..should've made something to cushion his fall before doing that.

The scout groaned and slowly picked himself up off the ground, she would've helped him if the slitherbeast hadn't suddenly began struggling even harder and her concentration was completely centered on keeping it at bay. 

Once he was done recollecting himself, the scout grabbed his spear and turned to face the beast. "Ok, now run, quickly! I can handle it from here!"

Maybe it was because she didn't want to go back to her parents just yet, maybe it was because she was sick of running away from everything in her life, or maybe she just didn't want yet another person seeing her as weak, pathetic, half-a-witch willow, but in a sudden burst of frustration she let the emotions that had been building up inside all day explode out of her. Without even realizing it her eyes began to glow green and the ground around her shook.

"I. AM. NOT. RUNNING!" She yelled, and with a final shout she used her vines to throw the slitherbeast further up the mountain. 

As she tried to catch her breath from all the energy she used, the glow in her eyes dimmed until they were back to their normal pale green, and she turned to find the scout staring in the direction she threw the demon.

—------------

Hunter was stunned.

He had been making decent progress down the mountain before another scout, trying to get ahead of everyone else, decided to provoke a Slitherbeast to sabotage Hunter's chance of survival. Although he's pretty sure he would've been able to escape it on his own eventually, he'd really rather not have to deal with it at all.

However he hadn't expected the way to get rid of it was to watch this girl, who is clearly younger than him, chuck it into the sky like it was nothing!

Holy shit.

"That was amazing!" He exclaimed, but when he turned back in the direction she was in he flinched when he found she was suddenly extremely close and staring at him with curiosity. He bit back a surprised scream.

"You're an emperor's coven scout right?" She asked, her eyes wide "What are you doing out here?"

Hunter stiffened.

"T-that's official Coven business miss!" He managed to spit out, his voice cracking slightly while he took a small step back. "However, uh, you wouldn't happen to know how close we are to the bottom of this mountain would you?" 

The witch in front of him nodded and gave him a small smile "We're not too far from the bottom, I'm camping with my dad's and we don't usually go very high when we do."

"Yes!" Hunter couldn't help but pump his fist in celebration. He almost made it! And as far as he's aware he's way closer to finishing than the others too!

The girl in front of him giggled lightly which immediately snapped him out of his excitement. 

He found himself very grateful that his scout mask had stayed on this whole time as he felt his ears begin to heat up in embarrassment.

"Uh I mean, good to know. It wouldn't be good for civilians such as yourself to be exposed to the dangers higher up on the mountain."

"You mean like that slitherbeast?" She raised an eyebrow, and he felt himself flush further.

He cleared his throat, "well, yes..thank you, by the way, for your assistance with that creature. Your abilities are most impressive."

She squeaked in alarm, apparently remembering who was speaking with, before she glanced down at him and winced, and when he took a look for himself to see why, he couldn't help but do the same. Her vines were strong, and he definitely got a little roughed up by them, not to mention the fact that he's been traveling down the knee for almost 2 days.

"Oh gosh, I'm so sorry, I'm not even supposed to be using plant magic! And I hurt you! I swear I'll try not to do it again!" 

He snapped his head back up to look at her as she continued muttering to herself. What was she even talking about?

"Um-" he cut her off, "Well, you're clearly too young to have to be in a coven. Plus you did just assist me on official Coven business, so I suppose it's fine." He tried to use whatever shred of authority he had left to reassure her. "I won't tell anyone if you don't."

She paused for a moment before smiling ever so playfully and holding her hand out to him, fingers closed with her pinkie extended. 

"Promise?"

He stared at her outstretched hand, not quite sure what she was attempting to do but even so he hesitantly copied the gesture.

If anyone asked he absolutely did not yelp in surprise when she grabbed his pinkie with her own and shook their hands a couple of times before letting go and drawing back. She tucked her arms behind her and took a couple steps back, turning to leave.

"Well then Mr Scout, it was nice meeting you, good luck on the rest of your mission-"

"W-wait! Uh.. I should escort you down the rest of the way! If you want, of course." Why was he sweating-

 "it would be a much safer course of action, logically, since we're both going in the same direction anyway and have had a decent interaction with one another so the company wouldn't be a negative either," 

Why the hell was he still talking-

"So all in all it seems to be in both of our best interests-"

Willow laughed, "Afraid you'll have to fight off more Slitherbeasts?" 

"No!" Kinda, but he didn't think that was the main reason he was trying to convince her, not that he fully knew why either.

"Well alright, let's get moving then. My father's campsite isn't too far away." And with that she started her decent back down from where she came, Hunter trailing behind her.

They were both silent for a bit, neither of them super used to talking with many witches their age, at least Willow assumed they were near the same age, as a matter of fact..

"Y'know you seem a little young yourself to be in the Emperor's Coven."

Hunter puffed his chest a little and his voice adopted a more cocky attitude in response. "You're quite right, at 13 I'm the youngest scout in the history of the Emperor's Coven. A feat not even Lilith could achieve."

He felt a small burst of pride when he saw the look of astonishment grace her gentle features. 

"You're 13!? Oh my titan you're only like a year and a half older than me! That's amazing!" 

Uncharacteristically, Hunter felt himself shy away from the praise. Rubbing a hand on his neck as he picked up his pace a little. 

"Yeah well I'm not the one who just chucked a four hundred pound beast up a mountain like it was nothing. Now THAT'S impressive."

Willow smiled and shrugged her shoulders, directed her attention to the ground as they walked. She wasn't used to someone thinking of her as impressive. It was a nice feeling.

As they approached the campsite she suddenly felt a little nervous to face her dad's again. After she had taken off the way she did there's no way they weren't upset and probably extremely worried. 

"Everything alright miss?" The Scout must've noticed her hesitancy, but she was determined to own up to her actions and face the music. 

"Yeah I'm just totally going to get grounded when I go back, I kindaaa didn't say anything when I took off into the woods earlier. So my Dad's are bound to be pissed." 

"I could accompany you if you'd like, whatever "grounding" is sounds remarkably unpleasant. If I could help lessen the punishment-"

"No it's fine, having an Emperor's Coven scout with me might honestly make things worse. Besides, it's not that bad. I just won't be able to leave the house besides school for a bit."

Hunter nodded, "Ah, assigned confinement. That's better than being buried alive."

His comment took her off guard and caused her to snort into her hand. "You thought I was gonna get buried alive?" 

"Well what else would grounding mean!?" 

And with that she was gone, her giggles grew and grew in volume until she could barely breathe. She glanced up at him briefly, and even with the mask she could tell he was confused as to why she was laughing and it caused her to break down all over again.

"Willow? Is that you?" A voice called out. Cutting off her laughter in an instant. For a brief second Hunter felt a flash of annoyance at whoever it was since they caused her to stop, but he brushed the feeling aside.

"Shoot! It's my dad, I have to go." Hunter tried to ignore the wave of disappointment that washed over him as she turned in the direction of the campsite, but he perked up slightly when she paused and looked back at him with a small smile. 

"Thanks for walking me back, it was very nice to meet you Mr Scout." 

He bowed before he could even think the action through, and regretted it immediately. Thanking the Titan above that he was wearing a mask and hood so his embarrassment wouldn't leak through. 

"It was my pleasure Miss, and uh, likewise." He cleared his throat. "Perhaps we'll meet another time."

"I'd like that." And with a final small wave the young girl disappeared into the bushes. He could hear concerned muffled voices in the direction she had gone and gave a small sigh of relief once it sounded like her parents were more worried than actually angry and upset.

He waited a little longer just in case before finally continuing on his way, trying to ignore the small prickling in his chest as he made it further down the mountain. 

He was the first scout to make it down alive, and one of the fastest ever actually. An achievement he'd normally be way more excited about since he was able to prove his worth. And yet, at the moment, all he could think about was the way that girl's eyes had crinkled, and how her shoulders shook when she was laughing,  and briefly, just for a moment, the thought crossed his mind that being able to make such a pretty girl laugh was 10x more satisfying than breaking any Emperor's Coven record in existence. 

[80s4life]

Not What I Had Planned Pt.2

Word Count: 1,244

Status: Requested!

Ask: “Hi, I was wondering if you could do a part 2 from Kiefer Sutherland’s request? If your not too busy” + “Umm how about it’s first time changing his daughter diaper and he’s a little nervous about changing her?”

A/N: This was a request on my Wattpad account that I brought over here lol

Fandom: Stand By Me 1986

Relationship: Ace Merrill x GN!Reader (x baby girl)

Summary: Having a child is an all new adventure to every parent, especially when with your first child. There’s a first feeding, first word, first walk, run, bruise, cut, cry, kiss.... and even your first diaper. Follow Ace and Y/N through their highlights in the world of parenting!

Warnings: langauge, fluff, humor if I do say so myself

Masterlist Stand By Me Masterlist Part One

{Gif is not mine, credits to @mistress-gif​}

To say that parenting was easy would’ve easily given away a person who has no clue about kids in general. Unless they are some saint or angel, then any kid could be a goddamn monster. The only defense, they don’t act like this on purpose, it’s just in their nature. And, in order for them to be raised properly, certain points or changes in their lives must be tackled in different forms of parenting.

For instance, when the child is only an infant or toddler, crying, pain, and attention-cravings are just the few things that are typical. Infants are delicate, unable to properly explain or do anything themselves, crying and attention being essential. As toddlers, they start to learn things on their own, cry and attention still to be expected, as they now reach their clumsiness period, consistent falling, stumbling, and tripping now.

To say Ace was prepared for this was a full-proof lie, him not knowing or being understanding for shit. He didn’t know how to be a father, especially when the father figure he’s usual supposed to take notes and go by, was a complete ass that could’ve cared less of who he had fathered and unsupported.

Y/N, however, was the opposite of Ace. Having supportive, loving, close-knit bonds. That’s what had drawn Ace into their little circle, being complete opposites, yet undeniably attracted to one another. Y/N’s father was the father Ace never had, playing football, watching sports, talking politics, hell even cooking barbecue on a damn grill; was just a few of the things observed and learned.

Y/N’s mother also played an amazing role, prying her way into Ace’s life just as her child had. Delicate, kind and caring. Y/N’s mother taught Ace sympathy, more control on his emotions, how to love and be loved by family, and of course, their child, Y/N.

All of these things, that may tend to be simple knowledge, was introduced to Ace as if it were a whole new world, and, when the pair had introduced their new addition, he applied everything he could. He was as caring as he could manage, which although he thought otherwise, was the kindest he had ever been to any human being in the world (besides Y/N and their family of course).

Ace carried a camera always, worked some extra hours during the night just for extra cash in the future, carried his baby girl everywhere, and despite his hard feelings for his family, he had created the beautiful name of Christina Poppy Merrill. Since their first kid was a daughter, Christina came in the honor of his brother Chris Merrill, and her middle name had come from his father’s nickname, ‘Pop.’ 

Y/N, being their ever supporting self, quickly hopped on the bandwagon, loving the name completely, not completely caring as long as their baby carried their Ace’s last name, just as they always dreamed of in the future. Marriage was something Y/N nearly craved, but never brought it up to Ace, him still knowing secretly but haunted by yet another touchy topic on its own level.

They understood though, knowing now that that topic would have to wait, their new addition coming first. 

For a while, Chrissy had slept in their bed during the nights, while Y/N and Ace built the very room she would soon reside in for the many years to come. Y/N painted the walls pink and blue hues, mixing in some places to make them a slight purple, like a sunset. Ace busied himself by building a handmade bed, “Something sturdy so she doesn’t fall through the fucking floor,” is what he claimed, stealing giggles in answer to his ever-questionable train of thought.

Music blasting, people working, and a baby playing in the center of the room. Bliss. Everything Y/N wanted, especially when their beloved boyfriend made sure he checked on the baby girl every so often, sometimes taking a break to even play cars with her. They fell for Ace long ago, but moments like these strike right to the heart, knowing damn well that they somehow can fall even harder for him.

Even the dumb, giggly moments. 

Y/N had changed Chrissy for a while, eventually getting somewhat annoyed as they would get up throughout the night just to change the baby in question, Ace claiming innocence and, “I don’t know how to... baby.” 

Y/N didn’t even bother to question what the fuck he was trying to say, sleep creeping into his being, but not long enough as Y/N yanks his ass out of bed, pulling his hand along with theirs.

Entering the room, Y/N goes to the changing station and Ace grabs Chistina, giving a resting bitch face to Y/N for waking him up. They ignore him however, quite tired of his excuses and deciding to teach the man exactly what to do, so that he didn’t have any excuses to give.

Pointing things out every now and then, Ace takes the advice, doing what was instructed...hardly. He almost gagged as he took the spoiled diaper off his baby girl, the shit coating some of her back. Y/N had laughed at that, finding some satisfaction at the fact of him probably having the worst diaper yet as his first.

He does manage to clean her up though, Y/N had to admit, doing quite well for a man so out of his comfort zone. He was the ‘bad boy’ for Christ’s sake. It was towards the end though, when Ace fucked up royally. Going to grab the baby powder and lightly dab some on the baby’s diaper, but dumping a mountain of the stuff instead.

The couple stare for a moment, Christina even silencing questionably, looking at the mess of baby powder both coating Chrissy and Ace. Y/N, trying not to be the immature one in this situation, takes steps back, but loses it the second they get a good look at Ace’s face, shocked and confused as hell.

He turns towards them accusingly, but soon gives into the humorous situation too, chasing Y/N as he goes to coat them in baby powder as well. They squeal, racing around the house until Ace wraps his arms around their waist, dumping some of the powder on their head. 

Within seconds, they are a laughing mess, running back towards Chrissy, almost forgetting she was still sitting on the changing station. Y/N shows Ace how to change the baby properly now, doing the rest of the cleanup and changing themselves as Ace watches adoringly.

Placing the baby in the crib, Ace rids himself of his shirt, clad in his underwear only now, and continues down the hall back to the shared couple’s bedroom. Y/N follows closely behind, admiring his muscular back, as they really couldn’t help it in their case. 

The couple lays back down, content smiles on their features. Ace’s arms reach towards Y/N’s form, bringing their back against his chest, right arm cradling their head and the left delicately draped across their waist, his head placed in the crook of their neck. 

The utter comfort and love in the embrace quickly reassures Y/N, their joints finally loosening from the long day and events of the night. And, just as sleep comes to overtake them, they could just hear Ace below a whisper, “One day I’ll get ya’ your ring, and one day, you’ll steal my last name, just as you’ve stolen my heart.” 

[screamin-abt-haikyuu]

A Comedy of Errors. Chapter 3: The Way of the Aces.

Please read the previous chapters before proceeding!!

Click here to read Chapter 1: Negotiations.

Click here to read Chapter 2: Suga the Setter.

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Background: Y/N is a transfer student who joined Karasuno High in her second year because her family shifted to Miyagi. She is a volleyball player and plays as a wing spiker (ace) in the Girl’s Volleyball team.

Pairing: Karasuno x fem reader || Romantic Pairing: Asahi x fem reader

NOTE: Y/N plays volleyball in this. I am not familiar with all the rules of the game so pls 2 forgive if I get any of the technicalities wrong.

Genre: Fluff and comfort with sprinkles of comedy this time! || SFW

A/N: At last, the final chapter. Hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it. I really poured my entire soul into this. --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Say, since you guys are already here. Why don’t you stay and watch us practice?" Asahi's lifespan is being shortened with every word as Suga invites Y/N and Michimiya to watch them practice. Asahi waits with bated breath. Even though he is extremely nervous, a part of him does want you to stay. So, when you do say yes, he doesn't know whether to feel happy or run out of the gym screaming. As they walk off to warm up, Suga whispers to him, "I know you're probably thinking about how you're going to fuck up your play and embarrass yourself in front of her. But while you're at it, maybe you should also think about what will happen if you actually play well." Asahi nods. "Suga." "Hmm?" "Thank you. For everything you just did. I really do appreciate it." "Of course! I'm just glad it worked out well." "And you are right, I do like her. I don't know her much but I would like to." "Aha, finally some truth around here! Well, then we just gotta make sure you give her a show worth remembering!" Suga says, winking.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Michimiya had been watching the game intently, as was evident by her gasps and comments on everything. But you? You hadn't been able to keep your eyes off of Asahi the entire game. So much so, that you had barely given a second thought to the first years' amazing quick attack or Nishinoya's outstanding libero skills.

Asahi's spikes, his serves, his receives, his posture, his spirit, and his determination had you just...rapt with attention.

"In case you are wondering, yes, he is single." Michimiya's whisper startles you.

"W-what?" you start to blush. "I'm just taking notes!"

"But I didn't even specify who I was talking about."

You turn redder.

"He's really nice too, you know. A very genuine and kind person. I think you two would make a cute couple."

Your face is so hot now that you're sure you'll hear a sizzle any moment. You turn your head back towards the game to avoid Michimiya's gaze.

"I- I don't know who you are talking about."

Michimiya chuckles. "Of course you don't."

Even though you can feel Michimiya's gaze on you, you can't help but smile as you watch Asahi land another beautiful spike in the opponent's court.

You didn't know, of course, that you being around and watching him had been a huge boost of motivation for him to perform at his peak. You didn't know how he had been wondering what you were thinking about him the entire game. You didn't know how hard it had been for him to not glance at you after every move he made, just to see your reaction.

But he didn't know how you had felt either. He didn't know how your heart rate sped up every time he came on to serve. He didn't know you had also felt frustrated whenever his spike got shut down, feeling as though you had been shut down. He didn't know how you had wanted to shout and cheer him on but you hadn't because you didn't want to come off as a weirdo.

Truly, you would make a good couple.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Practice is now over. Asahi's team won both the practice matches (of course they did, Suga would not have had it any other way). You and Michimiya walk over to the third years. As Michimiya starts gushing to Daichi about their game, you turn to Asahi.

"You were really - glorious, brilliant, like a God, I wish you were spiking me instead - amazing out there," you say, your eyes full of admiration.

Asahi instantly turns a deep shade of red.

"Th-thank you." He says with a smile.

"See, I told you he is great!" Suga says with a proud smile on his face.

"You were right. Karasuno really has a very talented ace."

"No, it has two of them," Asahi says, looking at you with a smile.

Now it is your turn to blush.

"Aah, I wish. I'm not quite there yet. I'm definitely nowhere close to your level," you say.

"I would love to help you any way I can."

"I would be honoured to learn from you," you say with a bow.

Suga piped up, "It's Saturday tomorrow! The boys' gym will be free till 10AM. If you want, we can practice here early morning. Say, around 7? Asahi can teach you the techniques and I can set for you both. We'll ask Daichi and Michimiya too if they want to join." and before you can answer, Suga is off to ask Daichi and Michimiya.

Wow, he really doesn't wait for an answer, huh.

Asahi looks at you and he can see you're a little unsure. "Everything okay?"

"Yeah, it's just... I really don't want to bother you guys so early in the morning like that."

"It's no problem at all, we usually practice early on the weekends anyway." Asahi says with a reassuring smile. That seems to melt your doubts away.

Suga walks back to you. "I've spoken to the two of them, they will join us but a little later."

"It's sorted, then." you say, smiling.

Of course, Asahi was the one who ended up walking you home that night.

Of course, Suga was "late" for the morning practice the next day, giving you and Asahi a lot of time to get comfortable around each other get nervous and DIE.

Of course, situations like these happened more than a few times.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Before you know it, two months have passed. With Asahi and Michimiya's help, you improved tremendously and the Karasuno Girls Volleyball team cleared the first set of qualifying rounds for the Spring Interhigh. And so did the boys.

During this time, you and Asahi have become really good friends. Since you two live in the same area, you often end up going to school and walking home together, giving you a lot of time to talk about every topic under the sun. It took a while but you are now very comfortable around each other. In fact, Asahi himself wonders how he is able to tell you things so easily.

Both of your friend groups (and your entire school, also the neighbouring schools, random passersby, street dogs, birds flying past - you know, basically anyone with eyes) can see that you two are absolutely head-over-heels for each other. The only two people who don't know it are you two.

The way Asahi had gone out of his way to teach you everything he knew; how patiently he had walked you through every technique, every mistake; how he had sweetly asked you for permission every time before correcting your posture and showing you the right finger placement (mind outta the gutter fellas, we talking about volleyball here); how every time he did that, you felt a jolt of electricity whenever his fingers touched you (I promise it is still about volleyball); how he cares about even the littlest things regarding you; how every time he smiles reassuringly at you, the world feels all right again; how supportive and encouraging he has been through it all: You have fallen for him harder than you have ever fallen in your entire life.

And you just keep falling harder and harder every moment you spend with him. He has become your comfort now. No matter how stressed or nervous you are, just having Asahi around makes you feel much calmer and confident.

Asahi, on the other hand, has smiled more in these last two months than he has ever smiled. He can't help it, being around you just makes him feel like he is floating. He was blown away by how talented and hard working you are and is so proud of the progress you have made.

The way you are so kind to him. The way you always speak up whenever someone makes fun of him. The way you always hype him up and believe in him. The way the world seems to stop every time you smile at him. The way your laugh has become his favourite sound in the world. Asahi could not be more enamoured by you even if he tried. You too, are his comfort now. He knows he can talk to you about every "sentimental" topic on earth without being made fun of.

The only problem is: You both are afraid that this comfort you find in each other will be ruined if either of you confesses and the other does not reciprocate your feelings. It is now a waiting game to see who spikes their ball into the other's court first, if at all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You are shaking. Partly with excitement, partly with nerves. After defeating Tohoku High, only one school remains between you and the nationals: Niiyama Joshi, one of the most powerful schools that always makes it to nationals when it comes to the Miyagi prefecture.

The boys' game had ended earlier than yours and they had already left the stadium. You were absolutely delighted to hear that they beat Seijoh. Now, they have to face Shiratorizawa, another powerhouse school that always makes it to the nationals.

You and Asahi both have your own mountains to climb tomorrow.

As you are walking out of the stadium with your teammates, you spot something.

"Hey, you guys go ahead, I will be right there." you say and turn back.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It's been a very long day but you cannot sit still at all. You cannot stop thinking about the match tomorrow. Your hands are sweaty knees weak, arms are heavy because you keep clenching your fists open and shut as you pace around your bedroom. You had hoped to be able to meet Asahi and maybe feel a little better but by the time you had reached school, the boys had already left. You know how big a day it is for him tomorrow too so you don't want to bother him by asking him to meet. However, you should at least text him and congratulate him on his victory. You open your phone and see you already have a message from him:

Asahi: Hey, I heard you guys beat Tohoku! Congratulations! I knew you could do it.

You smile.

You: Thanks, I still can't believe we did that!!! Congratulations on beating Seijoh!! I heard it was a close match.

Asahi: Thanks! Yeah, it was anyone's game by the end. It was really intense. But we managed to win. Also, I had full faith that you would make it!

You: Damn, wish I could have seen it. Sooo, Shiratorizawa next. How are you feeling?

Asahi: Really, really nervous. They're really strong and I don't think anyone believes we can beat them.

You: Well, you just gotta prove them wrong, then! I truly believe that you guys can do it.

Asahi: I really hope so. Anyway, what about you? How are you feeling about going up against Niiyama tomorrow?

You: Honestly, I cannot stop shaking and thinking about tomorrow. We are so close and I just don't want to screw up and let my team down.

Asahi: Can you get out of your house?

You stare at your phone for a moment before replying.

You: Yeah, I can sneak out the backdoor. Why?

Asahi: Sneak out after 5 minutes. I'll be there.

You: You sure about this? It's late and you need to rest for tomorrow too.

Asahi: I'm sure and I'm already on my way.

You grab your schoolbag and quietly make your way out the backdoor. You see Asahi standing outside your house. He's wearing a purple t-shirt and is carrying a bag in his hand. He smiles and waves at you as you make your way towards him. The knots in your stomach are already starting to loosen.

"Hey, Asahi!"

"Hey, Y/N, I'm sorry for making you sneak out like this but... I couldn't help myself when I read your messages."

"No, it's completely alright. Actually, to be honest, I was kind of hoping to meet you too. I-I always feel calmer after talking to you."

Asahi blushes.

"R-really?"

"Yeah."

"I always feel better after talking to you too."

You can feel the heat starting to build in your face as you smile at him in response.

Asahi continues, "I-I know I am not good with words. But I want to tell you that I know exactly how you feel. You won't let anyone down. I have seen you play and really, you have nothing to worry about. You have made it this far and you are strong enough to take it further."

His words make you want to cry. He has always shown so much faith in you. You look at the ground and don't say anything as you try to hold back your tears.

"-And I - uh - got you something that I thought might make you feel better."

You look up in surprise and you see him reaching his hand into the bag he brought with him. As you watch, he pulls out a light blue cloth. It's a t-shirt.

You gasp as you recognize what it is.

He holds the t-shirt open by the sleeves so that you can read what's written.

It's a "The Way of the Ace" T-shirt.

"Oh my God!!" you say loudly.

He is completely thrown off by your reaction as you throw your head back and laugh.

Oh no. Does she think this is lame? Asahi starts to panic.

You reach into your own bag and pull out a similar looking light blue cloth. Asahi's eyes widen.

"I bought this today at the stadium for you. I know how important tomorrow's match is for you and I knew you'd be nervous so I wanted to give you this as a motivational sort of good luck thing." you say as you hold out a larger sized "The Way of the Ace" T-shirt.

All of your tension and nerves melt away as you both stand there laughing and holding the T-shirts.

"I hope I got the right size," Asahi says as you exchange the t-shirts.

"Same."

"It's perfect!" You both say at the same time and erupt into a hearty laugh again.

"Thank you, Asahi. I feel a lot better now. Really, thank you for everything. We wouldn't have made it this far if not for your help."

"It was all you, Y/N. All I did was show you the way. You walked it on your own."

"Yeah, you showed me the way of the Ace." you say, smiling.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The score is 30-31 and it is match point for Karasuno Girls' High School against Niiyama Joshi for what seems to be like the 100th time. It has just been ties after ties after ties and every set has stretched well into the 30s. Somewhere at the beginning of the fifth set, you looked up to see the Karasuno boys piling into the stands to cheer your team on. From the looks of it, they won their match against Shiratorizawa.

Playing such intense 5 sets back to back has taken a massive toll and the players on both sides of the court are at their limit. However, it is now your turn to serve and if you manage to get this point, you will be through to the nationals.

"Y/N, GIVE US A NICE SERVE!!" the boys cheer for you from the audience.

Your knees are quaking and you feel like you can barely stand, much less run or jump. You are so out of breath that you feel like you are going to pass out any minute. As you somehow force yourself to walk into position, you can feel your knees buckling under you.

As you stand there, waiting for the referee to blow the whistle, your eyes instinctively search for Asahi. Even though he is far, you can easily spot him due to his height and the familiar light blue t-shirt he has changed into after his match.

As your eyes meet, Asahi cups his hands around his mouth and BELLOWS.

"JUST ONE MORE. YOU GOT THIS!"

The whistle blows.

BAM.

You barely have time to realize what happened as you are tackled to the ground by your teammates. There's a lot of hugging and crying and shouting.

As you recover from your shock, it finally registers. It was a service ace. Niiyama's libero had tried to dig the ball but it had bounced out of bounds.

You've won.

Tears of exhaustion and exhilaration start to flow from your eyes as you hug your teammates.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Your feet are killing you as you walk out of the locker room towards the bus, wearing your own WotA t-shirt. It's late and the corridor is silent and empty as you're one of the very last few people to leave.

"I told you you could do it."

You look up and see Asahi standing a little further ahead, smiling at you.

You don't say anything, you just walk up to him and hug him. He seems taken aback but only for a bit as, barely a second later, you feel his large arms wrap around you tightly.

You both stand there for a while, both too exhausted to speak but finding comfort in each other's arms. It just feels so...right. Like this is exactly where and how you are meant to be.

When you finally break apart, you can see that Asahi is looking a little nervous.

"S-say, Y/N. I was wondering... i-if you would maybe want to go on a- on a date with me?"

Your eyes widen in surprise.

"It is completely okay if you don't! I'm sorry I shouldn't have said anythi-"

"Yes, yes, YES! I will go on a date with you."

"Really? You really want to go out with me?"

"Yes. Honestly, Asahi, I fell for you a long time ago. I was just afraid of freaking you out and ruining our friendship. So, I didn't say anything."

Asahi let out a little laugh. "It's freaky how we think so similarly because same." He takes your hand in his. "I fell for you the day I met you. And I just kept falling harder and harder the more I got to know you. I just never imagined you would feel the same way for me too."

"I do, I do, I so do! I always have!"

Both of you have the biggest smiles on your faces as you stand there holding hands and looking into each other's eyes.

You suddenly start to blush furiously.

"So...um...since we usually seem to be thinking the same thing. Um, would you like to kiss me?"

Asahi's eyes open so wide that you're worried they'll pop out of their sockets any minute. He is blushing furiously as he simply nods and leans in.

Your heart is thundering as your lips meet. But, it's Asahi. He kisses you with such tenderness and affection that you just melt into him.

The two aces of Karasuno walk out of the stadium hand-in-hand, wearing their matching WotA T-shirts. You're going to nationals, you've found some really great friends and you have found each other. Life is good.

FIN.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finally, I am so happy with how this turned out. I was stuck for a while trying to decide where to go with this story and I was panicking a little about not updating sooner. But I am glad I did not hurry this up because I really LOVE the turn this took in my head which it wouldn't have if I hadn't let the ideas stew in my mind for a while.

I know this was a long read but I really hope you guys enjoyed it and it was worth the read and the wait.

Likes, comments, reblogs and follows are always appreciated. Please DO NOT repost

Buy me a Kofi! <3

[fandom-go-round]

Can I ask for an Obey Me! request? Where the brothers (if you dont want to do all of them then just whoever you feel like writing for) make casual comments about weight related things and they dont realize it upsets the plus size reader until later. like causal comments like "oh that's allot of food" and stuff like that. hurt /comfort please! love you!

Warnings: Fatphobia, Hurtful Comments about Reader’s Weight, Insecurities About Weight, Crying, Emotional Reactions

Mammon:

Mammon always has a way of sticking his foot in his mouth and this is no exception. You’re at a modeling job with him, waiting for him to finish up his shoot so you can go to dinner together. You had grabbed a large smoothie on the way over and are sipping as you watch, half curious about how modeling works and half checking him out. You’re almost done with the smoothie when he makes the comment, coming over to hang on a quick break.

“You’re not gonna need dinner at the rate you’re goin’!” There’s no malice in his voice but you freeze, eyes wide as you look to see if he really said what you thought he did. Mammon doesn’t notice, jogging back over to the set as his manager calls him over. The rest of your smoothie quickly goes into the trash and you spend the rest of the shoot looking at all of the models and cursing yourself; of course the Devildom values skinniness like Earth does.

It takes Mammon days to notice that he’s upset you, mostly because he’s too busy running the high of having money again. He does notice when you dip out of movie night and refuse to let him take you to dinner. Everything comes to a head when he barges into your room demanding an explanation and you’re crying.

He feels like absolute shit when you tell him what’s wrong. He blows off all your reassurances that you’re used to this and that you know he didn’t mean it. Weight isn’t an issue that Mammon has ever had to deal with but he does know about being teased and made fun of. He’s quick to beg your forgiveness and make things right. He becomes your number one supporter, buying you cute clothes and whatever you want to feel better. He’s quick to snarl at anyone who even makes a comment vaguely talking about weight in your direction. Mammon would support you if you wanted to lose weight but might pout a bit; he loves that you’re soft and have places for him to grab onto.  

 Leviathan:

Everyone knows that anime and manga have some of the most unrealistic women out there. That doesn’t stop people from being into it or loving 2D women more than real women. Being into anime before the Devildom had you prepared for this but Levi takes it to another level with Ruri-chan. You shouldn’t have been surprised by the comment but you would have thought Levi might be able to understand, considering his own insecurities.

“I don’t understand how anyone wouldn’t want to look like Ruri-chan! She’s the perfect woman!” You’re mind takes it the way you’ve always taken comments like that: ‘perfect woman’ means thin. You make an excuse to leave quickly after that, Levi only half noticing as he goes into another rant.

He doesn’t understand why you keep avoiding talking to him! An episode of your favorite anime is out and you refuse to come watch it with him! It’s blasphemy! It takes him almost a week to work up to nerve to come to your room and demand answers. Levi is a stuttering mess but when he finally gets out what he wants to talk about you look away, seeming almost as embarrassed as he is.

Levi starts to spiral in the middle of your explanation, blaming himself for being a gross otaku and giving you these thoughts. He know anime expectations are unrealistic (it’s one of the reasons why he likes it) but its another to see it used to hurt people. Both of you end of crying and there’s a lot of frank talk about body image. It’s a good way to bond, even if it did happen for a crappy reason. Levi is more sensitive to what he says and tries to find anime with more diverse characters. He also starts trying to find more plus size hentai… not for any reason in particular though!! He just wants to make sure there is some, that’s all!

 Asmodeus:

Hanging out with Asmo can be a blessing and a curse. He’s beautiful and loves fashion and you love to go shopping with him. The downside to that is you have body negative days that tend to match up with Amo’s feeling great days. The shops in the Devildom are a lot like Earth’s; plus size store exist but they’re more expensive and harder to find. Asmo doesn’t fit into any of the stores you do and you never ask to go, not wanting to point out the obvious differences between the two of you.

“You really should take better care of yourself darling, just think of all the things that would look good on you if you did!” You freeze immediately at his words, dropping whatever you had been looking at like it burned you. Asmo had been watching you in the mirror, eyes trained on your hair and skin but all you could think of was your weight. That’s a harsh comment, coming from the Avatar of Lust and you have to resist the urge to burst into tears in the middle of the store.

He knows the moment you start holding back tears that he’s messed up but he has no idea what to do. He tries to explain himself but you wave him off just saying that ‘I’d like to go home now’. You both leave the store after that, heading back in silence. You quickly go to your room and skip dinner, making everyone interrogate him about what happened. Satan is the one who points out that it might be weight related and Asmo has to resist the urge to cry at the table.

He bursts into your room the next afternoon and forces you to get up. You were planning on staying in bed the entire day but he convinces you to have a spa day with him. You’re not mad at Asmo, just yourself. You know how vain he is so it shouldn’t have surprised you. Asmo, however, apologizes for the first ten minutes, practically begging you to forgive him. You have a conversation about dos and don’ts and Asmo takes it to heart, listening to you and trying to understand your struggles. After your spa day he surprises you by bringing out a mountain of outfits; he had run to some of the shops that fit you and got things! If there’s anything you hate it’s quick to disappear but he wants to pamper you and this is the best way he knows how.

 Beelzebub:

Beel loves hanging out with you because you love food like he does. Not to the same physical amount of course, but you’re always willing to try new things and go new places with him. Everyone knows that if there’s a new restaurant you and Beel (and sometimes Belphie) are going to be some of the first people in line. Just because you love to eat doesn’t mean that you’re immune to the things people say about the two of you. You just wouldn’t have thought that Beel would say anything.

"That’s a lot of food.” You freeze, looking up from your plate to look across the table. Beel’s eyes are locked on your plate and not his own, even though his plate is pilled much higher than yours. “Are you going to eat it all?” You don’t hear anything after his second question, appetite suddenly gone. He doesn’t wait for your response, eating his own food with vigor and eating yours once you push it over to him.

You stop going out to eat with him after that, hardly eating at school or at the House of Lamentation. Sure, you eat enough so that no one says anything but Beel knows better. You don’t snack like you used to or eat cakes with him, you just eat and then that’s it. He talks to Belphie about it and his bother helps figure it out; when did they stop eating? Why? He puts it together after that, feeling horrible once he remembers you talking about how people used to make fun of you in the human world.

Beel shows up at your door the next day, a box from Madame Scream’s in hand and a determined look on his face. He asks to talk to you and you have a conversation about what he said, ignoring the box even as his stomach growls. He apologizes for upsetting you and says that he doesn’t care what size you are, he likes you for you. If people are going to make fun of you or try to bully you, he’ll protect you because you mean a lot to him. You end up splitting the box of treats with Beel, happier than you have been all week. He doesn’t tell you but he prefers that you’re bigger; he’s a big guy after all and it’s a relief not to worry about hurting you as much.

[copias-thrall]

Would it be alright to request some Papa IV x f!Reader? Like the reader is a very kind and sweet person and she has always supported Copia kind of thing? Maybe they’re having a whole day to themselves to celebrate?

Yes! Let’s get some more sweet Copia 😊 

They made fun of him and called him The Rat.

Terzo made him the butt of all his pranks.

Nihil undermined him at every turn.

Imperator pushed him to the point of breaking.

What you saw a man trying to do his best with his only flaw being an outsider within the Abbey walls, and in a place where actual hellbeasts were basically demon cats, were rats such an odd choice of pet?

You were fairly certain Copia knew the “Squeak if u like cheze” sign was taped to his back, but he just walked down the corridors anyway and let the Siblings and Ghouls chitter at him. You’d seen this man save one of the Abbey mice from a glue trap, and your heart just couldn’t let it continue.

So, you’d approached him and offered to remove the offending paper.

Copia, however, had just smiled at you.

“It is good of you to say, Sister. But let them have their fun, eh?”

He’d given you a slight bow and had gone on his merry way.

After that, however, Copia had warmed to you, often seeking you out so he could sit with you in the mess hall at mealtimes or chat theology with you on lazy Saturday afternoons.

When some of Terzo’s faction had started stuttering to make fun of Copia’s shyness with public speaking, you’d tried to shut them down. Not everyone was good in front of a crowd—especially when that crowd was hostile. All that did, however, was get them to double down and start calling you, "rat lover."

“Doesn’t it bother you, Cardinal?" you'd asked during one of your food dates. "It’s so…petty.”

But he’d just given you a fond look.

“It is of no consequence, dear Sister. Let them be thinking what they will.”

You’d learned all of his rats’ names and started smuggling them contraband from the kitchens.

Copia had you transferred from Imperator’s admin pool to work as his assistant.

“All this new paperwork!” He’s swept his arm across the stacks of his desk. “I thought I could be using a little help from a friend, yes?”

You’d inherently understood you weren’t there to file paperwork—you were there to tell him when to take a break, to replace his cold coffee, and to be a sounding board.

And you didn’t miss the way Copia’s mismatched eyes would look on you with adoration.

Well, you thought he was pretty neat, too.

When he’d been away on his first tour, you’d done your best to keep up with him. You had your other duties and your friends, but you tried to send him a supportive word before, during, and after each performance.

His missives back had grown fewer as the tour had dragged on, but each one had been effusive—if riddled with typos.

After the first tour, things had been different. Copia had come back from the road a glowing success…and in a tight suit that showed off his assets instead of his smothering cassock.

The tide turned, and while there were still his many detractors, gone were the days of “kick me” signs and farces.

You’d noticed a significant pay increase and an extra day off.

“But Cardinal! You need me here!” you’d protested.

He’d simply grabbed your hands and kissed each one.

“I do. And that is why you must be well-rested. Lots to get done. Now, shoo!”

And truth be told, the two of you had worked harder. Copia had spent less and less time in his study and more time attending meetings or at band practice or at weekend symposiums. You’d done your best on keeping his mountain of paperwork down to a molehill, but sometimes the two of you needed to work late into the night to meet seemingly arbitrary deadlines while you put your foot down and told the kitchen Ghoul that making some rigatoni past hours wasn’t going to kill them.

Of course, then you needed to put your foot down about Copia stopping long enough to eat the carbonara. Sometimes he’d growl at you, and you’d have to snap your fingers at him and tell him being hangry wasn’t a good excuse to be snippy with you; he was predictably contrite after he’d consumed a good portion, and you took his apologies as your due.

All of which is to say: you had Copia’s back from the get-go, and he knew you were always in his corner.

When he comes back from Mexico newly ascended, there are dozens of Siblings who want a piece of him. Some—like you—have been in his fan club since day 1; others jumped on the bandwagon during the final tour; while a few just see the razzle dazzle and want to shine too.

You’re in his study because you want to make sure everything is caught up before he comes back to work. You imagine that he’s going to spend a few days reaping the rewards of his promotion, and—while a part of you feels a little let down about not being a part of that particular party—you are genuinely invested in Copia succeeding.

So when the door bangs open, you’re startled to find Copia…er…Papa Emeritus the 4th striding into the room.

“Oh! Your Dark Excellency! I was just making sure—”

“How did I be knowing I would find you here, eh? Today is not a day to be working!”

“But you—”

He makes a shushing noise and reaches his hands out. They linger in the air between the both of you until he makes a “come here” motion with his fingers.

Tentatively, you curl your fingers into his gloved ones.

“We are taking the day off, yes?”

“W-we?”

Copia raises an eyebrow at you. “Sí. With who else should I be celebrating?”

You blush, pleased that he seems genuinely baffled.

The March air is living up to its reputation, so Copia leads you to one of the sunniest rooms in the Abbey. There, you find a picnic blanket set up with a picturesque spread of food, and Rain helping Mountain to position a bevy of potted plants around the area.

Copia clucks at them good-naturedly to leave. Rain gives you the thumbs up and Mountain just pats you on the head as they leave. (As Copia’s Girl Friday, you’ve had to backmanage his ghoulies as much as you’ve had to organize his report piles.)

When he gestures for you to sit, you arrange yourself comfortably in a big square of sun that’s streaming in from the windows. As you take in the meats, cheeses, sandwiches, and fruits that populate the corner of the blanket, Copia putters around with a bottle of Champagne and two glasses.

The whole thing is a little unexpected, but not unwelcome, and you watch him with fondness as he utters a Whoopsie when the cork goes flying at the ceiling and as he obsesses over making each glass level.

You two clink glasses with a Salute, both taking a modest sip.

“This is lovely, Cop—uh, Papa.” He’s all smiles. “But why me?”

His eyebrows draw together, and he tilts his head at you.

“Mia cara…who else would it be?”

You blush and shrug your shoulders, looking down at your platter. When he takes your hand in his warm, leathered one, you look up and get lost in his earnest, mismatched gaze.

“You are the most important person in my life.”

His thumb strokes over your knuckles.

“You are too sweet, mia cara. Helping an old man—”

“You’re not old—”

He tsks at you.

“Helping a person I am being. At my side even when you are in the knowing.” He taps his nose and winks. “Our little conspiracy of silence, yes?”

That Copia is not quite exactly the bumbling, nutty-professor he leads the rest of the Clergy to believe he is? Yeah, obviously.

He nods.

“And yet, you are by my side. Keeping my head on straight. Because you are wanting to.”

Because you saw the way he treated his rats, his Ghouls, and even Sister Imperator. He may have a dangerous ambition, but he’s not a dangerous man.

“I believe in you Papa.”

He gives you that fond look again.

“Well. I believe in you too, Sister.”

Copia lets your hand go and claps.

“Now! Let us enjoy this feast! Next up is a movie marathon where we enjoy our food comas, yes?”

You pop a grape into your mouth.

“Of course, Papa.” You give him a devilish smile. “How ‘bout you give the schedule so I can make sure we’re on track, hm?”

He blinks at you for a moment before giving you his little rat laugh.

“Ah, eh heh heh! There is my little taskmaster.”

“What would you do without me?”

He tosses a gape and just barely catches it in his mouth.

“I wouldn’t, cara. I wouldn’t.”

[mira--mira]

Hi! I was wondering

How do you think Hashirama and Madara would be in a Road to Ninja version?

I remember once reading a Hashimada fic (which I never finished RIP) that was about Madara appearing in the RTN universe and the 3 things that stucked with me were:

1.- Madara was the first Hokage (something that Madara thought was horrible when he saw his sculpted face on the Hokage mountain 🤣)

And personally I think that it would not have been like that even in the RTN universe because we didn't see his face along with the other faces of Hokages in the movie (Yeah, apparently I'm basing myself on a movie which I'm not even sure if it's canon or not, even though Kishimoto wrote it) and the RTN characters didn't seem to even know who Madara is.

2.- Hashirama having his bowlcut as an adult

And I agree with the Madara from that fanfic, it looks awful on him. Hashirama, babe, I'm sorry but the only ones who can rock that style are Guy Sensei and Rock Lee, I know you just were trying to be cool but it doesn't suite you.

3.- Tobirama was a porn writer

Instead of being a fan of forbidden jutsu and creating justus, he wrote porn novels a la Jiraiya. And I'll hold that headcanon with my dead hands.

The only other fanfic that places the founders in the RTN universe is one where the protagonist is Mito (it's an interesting one-shot that pairs her with Itama 🤔)

She was kind of a shy person 🤔? And so it was Tobirama 🤣 which I found fun.

Hashirama, as the first fanfic I mentioned, was the Tobirama of the place (saddenly Madara wasn't in this fic).

So I would like to know what are your versions of the founders (or only Hashirama and Madara if it is too much) in the RTN universe! And how do you think things would be

Hmm, RTN is an interesting concept to me but, to be honest, I don't think Konoha would exist if a lot of personalities got flipped 😂 I haven't read any RTN fics with the founders, but if you, or anyone else, have links at hand I'd love to check them out 👀

1. Madara

Here's the big one and the crux of why I don't think the village would exist. Typically I characterize Madara as an extremely responsible man who internalizes things when he shouldn't, takes himself way too seriously, is aggressive and abrasive even to people he loves sometimes, but genuinely loves the people closest too him. Reversing this would make a character that slacks off, takes no responsibility, and is completely passive in life and has fleeting attachments to others around him. Assuming he wouldn't die on the battlefield, I could see the RTN "alternate" personality coming about of Madara's being so overpowered and competent that he loses interest and distances himself from things before he can get attached and lose them.

It makes building a village very hard though. (At first I was tempted to go RTN Sasuke route and maybe RTN!Madara is a little more openly flirty than canon!Madara, but the passivity and refusal to take responsibility would be the "core" qualities for me.)

2. Hashirama

Hashirama is a bit weird because he has a lot of surface-level "conflicting" traits in canon. He is optimistic but he pushes beyond his natural attitude and uses it as a mask to hide instead of addressing his feelings. He's mischievous, likes jokes and games, and can be a bit hedonistic with his pleasure but can equally be serious when necessary and will willingly sacrifice for others around him. And simultaneously, Hashirama and Madara are connected by a shared sense of idealism but also anger. Hashirama is a very kind, but extremely angry, man. I think a RTN!Hashirama would share a kind of apathy of RTN!Madara but instead of passivity his lack of anger would manifest as cruelty. Because canon!Hashirama is angry but his anger is usually a righteous kind. I don't think RTN!Hashirama would go out of his way to be cruel, but he doesn't have the empathy of canon!Hashirama, especially to others' suffering. He enjoys fighting just a bit too much and has no qualms about killing. In his mind, he should always come first in any situation and prioritizing (or even considering) others' is effort and him going out of his way to be "nice" and the other should be thankful. Similarly if he feels any negative emotion, he won't bottle it up and swallow it down, he'll immediately address it, usually confrontationally. RTN!Hashirama is as intelligent as his canon counterpart but he doesn't suffer fools and he hates it when people underestimate him. He's pretty proud and vain, tbh.

I really don't think the above would make him the "Tobirama" of RTN verse. To me Hashirama and Tobirama have different core values and perspectives and inverting Hashirama's doesn't make it become Tobirama's, if that makes sense. This one is also wordy bc I immediately knew how RTN!Madara would be RTN!Hashirama is a bit harder to pin down. But I hope it's clear why I have doubts about the village existing...maybe if RTN!Hashirama got it in his mind as a pet project for the hell of it, that he'd be a better leader for the country and not just the Senju alone, and RTN!Madara liked the idea of no responsibility and being able to detach even further than he already was? But that's still kind of grasping for a reason.

3. Hashimada

Equally I think any Hashirama/Madara relationship would be ehhh. They definitely wouldn't have the overwhelming bond of their canon counterparts, and it could be a relationship ripe for unhappiness. The closest I can think of to making the ship work is RTN!Madara would be drawn to Hashirama's absurd level of self-confidence and able to let the casual cruelty slide off instead of getting worked up about it. In a way RTN!Hashirama is stable and predictable. If he's pretty overpowered, there's less of a chance RTN!Madara would lose him, so their relationship isn't deep but it's more or less dependable and Madara knows exactly what he's going to get. In contrast RTN!Hashirama has an audience in the form of RTN!Madara and a partner that's not going to push back against his ideas. RTN!Madara doesn't ask for much and he doesn't complain when RTN!Hashirama puts himself first. He doesn't want, or might not be capable of, the deep emotional bond their canon counterparts have. RTN!Madara wouldn't leave Konoha (if it existed) in the AU, because he doesn't really care. If someone upset RTN!Hashirama and he decided to leave to 'do it right' RTN!Madara would probably follow, maybe out of some loyalty for RTN!Hashirama but mostly because it's what's easiest.

4. Tobirama

The core of Tobirama's character to me is prioritizing logic over emotion and both a conscious and unconscious failure to realize he can't completely eliminate emotion. Tobirama loves his brother, he's curious and has a desire to find out what makes things work and is willing to bend morality to get results if it'll serve a greater good. He's very aware of the unfairness of the world but believes it's an unspoken truth of humanity and can only be mitigated through logical means, but never completely erased. He'll be the sacrificial lamb, the one that works in shadows so his brother can have his utopian dream. Despite everything, he loves his genin, the strongest bonds he has aside from Hashirama, and does try to instill in them lessons he think will help them and lead to peace and stability in the village. He's still influenced by the prejudices of his time and can never find it in him to truly forgive the Uchiha.

A RTN!Tobirama would be a man ruled by emotion. Him writing erotica all day definitely could be one way this manifests lol. But overall he's sensitive and spiritual and can't stand the idea of killing. He and RTN!Hashirama don't get along and he actively tries to avoid his brother. RTN!Tobirama has equally strong principles as canon!Tobirama, but they're pacifist in nature and while he likes his studies, he prefers to be out talking to people and learning from them first hand. He's very naive and can be easily taken advantage of and he has trouble focusing on any one thing for too long. No matter how many times this happens, he never can harden his heart or be overly suspicious of others. RTN!Tobirama would most likely be the one support peace in this AU. He embraces the Uchiha and all the Senjus past enemies with open arms, almost to a foolish degree. It'd be a bad idea if he became hokage in this AU because he's a terrible negotiator and has a bad people-pleasing streak and struggles with long-term tactics. With the exception of RTN!Hashirama, who he considers an aberration who doesn't have a soul, humans at their core all have good intentions at heart.

5. Mito

I characterize Mito as a very level-headed woman. Her marriage to Hashirama is political in nature but they grow to be good friends and she never expected to fall in love and she's glad Hashirama didn't want a traditional wife. Mito is devoted to her community work (she works hands-on with people in the village), she seeks out connections with others and, despite the distance, remains close with her family in Uzushio, constantly writing them letters. She's spiritual and follows the Uzumakis' beliefs (not gonna list this OoT spoiler lol) and studies fuinjutsu in her spare time, something she's done since she was a child. She is willing to sacrifice if it meant protecting something she considered greater than herself, much to her own personal detriment. She loves and is proud of her children and grandchildren, but if she had a choice, she would have chosen to remain childless, she finds her true calling elsewhere.

RTN!Mito, similarly to RTN!Tobirama, is ruled by emotions. She dreams of one day making a good marriage for herself and centers romance and being a mother as her ideal life, but she's extremely picky when it comes picking the perfect husband. RTN!Mito knows how much she's worth and she refuses to settle and will not even entertain the idea of an arranged marriage. She has a hard time forming long-lasting, deep bonds with other people and views starting her own family as the solution to this problem. At times she can be a bit absent-minded and unintentionally selfish, but she's not actively malicious. She blusters a lot and depending on the situation can come off as cold and uncaring, but it's only to hide the depth of her true feelings and loneliness. In this AU she would absolutely refuse to marriage RTN!Hashirama. Nothing on hell or earth, could make her change her mind.

Mito is such a blank-slate character it feels like writing an oc more than a canon character, tbh. And this is something I don't see brought up a lot but a "heart full of love" to combat the kyuubi's hatred to me has never been exclusive to romantic or familial (to children) love. *cough* I want a complex female character who's not vilified for not wanting to have children and/or regretting having them *cough* Mito's "love" was for the people of Konoha and Uzushio. My personal headcanon regarding her and Hashirama's child (I don't think she had more than one) was that she was dedicated to her son, but quickly realized being a mother wasn't her dream or something she even actively liked. The kid was well-cared for and she was dutiful towards him, but Hashirama was the parent that loved and embraced him with his whole heart and it led to some tension between Mito and her son as the kid could tell the difference and neither of them were "wrong" to feel the way they did. This is why Tsunade was shown with Hashirama instead of Mito, he was a lot more present in her life when she was young (instead of Kishi just not having made Mito as a character yet). But after Hashirama and Tsunade's dad died (and then Nawaki), she and Mito grew close but it was definitely more of a friendship or student/mentor relationship rather than a traditional grandmother/granddaughter relationship but both were satisfied with it and loved eachother. Likewise I didn't want RTN!Mito's characterization to be shallow and hit misogynistic undertones with her being an "opposite" to Mito's calm, level-headed, focused on her work/passions characterization.

6. Closing thoughts

#1: Wow this got long #2: I feel conflicted about RTN because it seemed to flip surface-level characteristics instead of deep characterizations, and ignored flaws altogether. The ones above, esp. Hashirama and Madara's, are kind of dark in a way? But that's the only way it makes sense to me...Gai and Lee caring about style and being stylish is a funny joke but if you were to actually poke and prod and say their personalities were inverted, neither of them would be top-notch ninja as we know...unless I'm just completely misremembering RTN because I realize it's been years since I saw it lol. Anyway, hope this was entertaining!

[wayward-dreamer]

Life’s Lessons - Epilogue

Title: Life’s Lessons - Epilogue: A Lesson in Making a Life

Pairing: Mechanic!Dean x Female!Teacher!Reader

Word Count: 4,160 (song lyrics in italics)

Warnings: SO MUCH FLUFF, YOU GUYS. Some swearing, Lots of kissing, Happy Tears, Dean being the cutest and sweetest he’s ever been in this series. Implied sex. Just a whole bunch of happiness. I don’t want to say anything and ruin the surprise, but there’s absolutely nothing but fluff here!

Music: Thank You by Led Zeppelin (Lyrics spaced out throughout, listen to it during the whole epilogue. Loop it if you can lol!)

Life’s Lessons Spotify Playlist

A/N: I made myself cry with this epilogue. There’s just so much fluff, you guys! So, happy reading and enjoy! Thank you so much to everyone for coming along on this journey, I have loved every minute of it and I hope you have too! Who knows, though... it might not be completely over! ;)

Life’s Lessons Masterlist

Dividers by the wonderful @firefly-graphics​! Check her out for all your AU needs!!!

6 Months Later

If the sun refuses to shine

I would still be loving you

“So, you don’t know what he has planned for tonight?”

Y/N stood in front of her mirror, applying her make-up. Charlie, who sat on the bed behind her, had just asked her that question, to which Y/N shook her head.

“No idea” she said, before picking up her eyeliner and bringing it to her right eye first.

Meg walked into the room, handing Charlie one of the glasses of water she had in her hands. “If he told you to dress up, it’s something important.”

Y/N smiled, shrugging her shoulders. “Maybe. I just want to have a good time tonight. He’s been so busy with the house; we can finally relax tonight.”

“You still want it to be a surprise, huh?” Charlie asked, smiling.

“Yeah” Y/N replied, quietly, smiling to herself.

A lot had happened in Dean and Y/N’s life.

They had spent nearly every waking moment together, when they weren’t at work or with their friends or Dean’s family. To say that they fell more in love with each other every day was an understatement. They both couldn’t believe how much more they were able to give with each passing moment. Since Dean had told her about the house, they had begun planning everything for it together. She would give him her ideas from her home magazines, telling him different ways to go about doing the internal re-model. However, Dean being Dean, didn’t tell her which of her ideas he was taking on board. He had taken her saying she wanted to be surprised very seriously.

Y/N couldn’t believe how far they had come; from just being neighbors and liking each other, to a proper couple in the span of several months. She had met his family, and everyone loved her instantly. They had their first Valentine’s Day and Dean had pulled out all the stops, taking her to a fancy restaurant and then a hotel in the city for the night, taking work off the next day which she did too, enjoying spending time together before their late check-out.

Then, the time came for Dean to meet her parents. She had been nervous, but she knew her family would give him the same treatment that his gave her. They had come down from New York to visit her just as summer break started. Her parents along with her sister and brother-in-law and the kids all hauled themselves down to Kansas to see her and meet Dean. When she had told him, he had been incredibly nervous to meet them, but had agreed, nonetheless.

They spent an entire afternoon together, Dean played with Y/N’s nieces who were obsessed with him now, took her dad and Brian out for a spin in the Impala, and charmed her mom and Jill all day until her sister and brother-in-law returned to the hotel with the kids, as Y/N’s parents were staying with her. Dean had passed with flying colors, which they were both so relieved about. The family’s trip there pretty much cemented that things were serious, and they were moving onto a bright future together.

Once the family had left after visiting for a week, Dean took Y/N on a trip to California, on a two-week getaway that he cited they needed to take after working so hard for the last several months. It was their first trip together, and Dean had driven them down there. The beach house they got to stay in belonged to a friend of Sam’s from college, which they had all to themselves as the friend and his wife had gone to Europe for the summer. Sam and Eileen weren’t able to go, as she didn’t want to endure a long drive while pregnant, and she also couldn’t fly now. So, Dean took the opportunity to be alone with Y/N, spending a romantic trip away together. They spent their days on the beach, exploring the town and soaking up the sun, with their nights spent at bars, restaurants and night walks along the shore, before exploring each other once they got back to the house.

It had been exactly what they needed, both of them falling even more in love with each other if that was even possible.

Sam and Eileen’s son was born a week after the trip, both parents exhausted but over the moon with their bundle of joy. Dean and Y/N had taken on babysitting duties a couple of months later, knowing the parents definitely needed a break. As if seeing Dean with her nieces hadn’t been enough, Dean with his baby nephew was a sight to behold and had given Y/N plenty of thoughts she shouldn’t have had. Not for a while, at least.

She knew they were heading in that direction, and she also knew that Dean felt the same way, but it was better to not get carried away with thoughts of marriage and children until those things were properly on the cards for them.

When mountains crumble to the sea

There will still be you and me

Six months later, nearly a year to the day she had met him, and she had fallen harder with each day that passed. He made her feel loved, protected and safe. He cared about her and her job, her passions and her wants and needs. He was completely satisfying in every department, especially the bedroom, getting her to admit to fantasies she had hidden and even playing out a very particular one. She had given him his teacher fantasy, so it was only right he gave her one of hers.

Through it all, there was only one thought she had. That she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Dean Winchester. She wanted to make a life with him and only him. He was her person.

As Y/N reflected on everything that had happened, she quickly changed into her wine-red dress and nude heels, put on her thin, diamond, drop earrings and made sure her Y/H/C hair was still perfectly styled and her make-up was flawless, having gone for a lighter look with a light pink lip.

“So… how do I look?” she asked, turning to her friends.

“Beautiful” they both sighed, smiling at her.

“He’s not going to know what hit him” Meg said with a wink.

Just then, the doorbell rang a couple of times, signalling Dean had walked over to her house to come and get her. She still only used it to keep her clothes and do her work in her office, spending most of the days and all her nights over at Dean’s.

“Alright, I better go” she said, doing one last check in the mirror. “You girls stay as long as you want, just-”

“Lock up when we leave, we know” Charlie smiled. “Go.”

Y/N smiled as she walked out of the bedroom, Charlie and Meg hanging around in the hallway as they watched her greet Dean with a kiss.

“She really has no idea what’s going to happen soon” Charlie quietly squealed.

“I know” Meg said, excitedly as they both waved at Dean, giving him a thumbs up as he winked at them when Y/N’s back was turned. She smiled back at them one last time before shutting the door, leaving the girls in the house.

“I always knew they’d get to this point” Charlie said, beaming. “Gosh, I’m so happy she came into his life.”

“Amen to that” Meg said, as she clinked her glass of water against Charlie’s. They both took a few sips, before rinsing the glasses and picking up their bags.

“Alright, what time did Dean say they’ll be done?” Meg asked, as they stepped out the door and locked up Y/N’s house.

“Around 9” Charlie replied, as they got into her car.

“Good. That means we have enough time” Meg said, as she buckled her seatbelt.

They both couldn’t wait to help Dean make this a night Y/N would remember forever.

Kind woman, I give you my all

Kind woman, nothing more

Dean smiled at the look on Y/N’s face as the waitress popped the champagne he had ordered, pouring them each some in the champagne flutes before putting the bottle in the ice bucket, and walking away. He loved the look of surprise and giddiness on her face, but she really had no idea what was in store for her tonight.

“This is all too much, Dean” she said, shaking her head even though she was smiling. “Champagne, the restaurant to ourselves…”

He waved her off, smirking. “I’ve been coming here for years, so Tony owed me at this point.”

He had taken her to the restaurant he took her to on their first date, just six months ago. He had known the owner for years, coming in here often enough plus Dean fixing Tony’s car several times in the past few years, plus the place practically being an institution of Lawrence, all added up to Dean being able to have the place for themselves that night.

“Well, I’m glad it didn’t cost you much” she smiled, as she picked up her glass and held it up for a toast. “To six, amazing, official months, but to one whole year of knowing you.”

“To knowing you, too” he smirked as he clinked his glass with hers, secretly touched that she had said that.

Dean knew that he was truly blessed to have the amazing woman sitting in front of him, in his life. She had saved him from a life of misery, something he never would’ve realized or gotten out of if she hadn’t shown up and completely turned his life around, for the better. She made him feel appreciated, valued, cared for and loved. She was genuinely excited about his achievements when it came to work, and even gave him ideas on how to do things when he voiced that he was lost sometimes. She supported him and his passion, being equally passionate and driven, just in her own profession.

She was absolutely stunning, knocking him down a few pegs every time he looked at her, and god damn it, if she wasn’t the sexiest woman he had ever been with. She had fulfilled a fantasy of his, and he had returned the favor recently, finding out while he enjoyed her being dominant towards him, he absolutely loved seeing her being submissive for him.

He knew from the moment they met that she was going to be sticking around for a while. Then, a while turned into him wanting her around forever, once things became more serious between them.

Meeting her family sealed the deal for him, however. He wanted Y/N in his life for as long as they lived.

Little drops of rain whisper of the pain

Tears of love lost in the days gone by

They ate and drank, chatting about everything they could, enjoying each other’s company. They never ran out of things to talk about, and they both hoped they never would. Once Dean paid for dinner and dessert which had consisted of an incredibly rich chocolate cake, they took a stroll through the park to get to the car. It was a pleasant night, not blazing hot like it had been during the day, with a light, cool breeze. Y/N kept looking over at Dean, dressed in his best dark jeans, a light blue shirt and his good boots, proving that he always looked incredible.

Their hands were intertwined as they walked, stealing kisses and touches from each other as they made their way to the car. They could barely ever keep their hands off each other, but Dean was being extra lovey and Y/N had begun to wonder what he was up to.

“Ready for the next thing?” he asked, as he sat in the car, turning the ignition on.

“Absolutely” she replied, smiling brightly.

“Good” he said, before he reached over and opened the glove compartment, taking out a tie he had stashed in there. “Turn around, sweetheart.”

“Oh my god, Dean, what kind of thing do you planned?” she asked, her eyes widening as she saw the tie.

“It’s nothing like that, Y/N” he replied, as he nudged her to turn. “Unless you want it to be” he smirked, even though she had turned and couldn’t see him.

He wrapped the tie around her head, covering her eyes before tying it at the back.

“Is this really necessary?” she asked, pouting her lips.

He chuckled, leaning in and kissing them. “Yes.”

He pulled out his phone and sent a quick message before he started the Impala. The engine roared to life, before he put it in drive and made his way down the road.

They hadn’t been driving long, but Dean had taken several turns in the last few minutes. Y/N was confused as to where they were going but didn’t say anything. She knew he had a knack for surprising her, and she didn’t want to spoil that for him.

Dean quickly pulled up outside his newly renovated, two-storey house. He shut off the engine, just as he saw two figures walk out of the house. He got out of the car and smiled at Charlie and Meg who waved at him, before quietly making their way down the driveway and towards Charlie’s car. He waited until they had completely driven away before walking around the front of the car and opening the passenger door.

“Can I take this off now? What took you so long to get here from the other side?” she asked, starting to get a little suspicious now.

“Y/N, you gotta relax” he laughed, as he turned her around and held onto her shoulders, guiding her up the sidewalk, after he had locked the car.

He walked her up the path in the still-to-be-finished garden, which she wouldn’t be seeing at that moment. He carefully led her up the porch stairs, making sure she didn’t trip with her heels on. He opened the door and led her in, her heels echoing on the hardwood floors.

“Dean, what’s going on?” she asked, impatiently as she heard her shoes on the floors.

“Just one more second” he replied, as he moved in front of her and guided her through the hallway, past the living area and into the middle room. When he stopped, he felt his heart beating wildly in his chest.

“Okay… ready?” he asked, holding onto the tie being used to blindfold her.

“Yes” she replied, somewhere between exasperated and excited.

Dean laughed to himself, as he moved in front of her. “Okay. 1… 2… 3…”

He counted down and opened the knot, dropping the blindfold. He watched her eyes flutter open, smirking as they immediately widened when she realized where she was. She let out a loud gasp, her eyes flitting to every part of the room, lit up with candles everywhere.

Y/N couldn’t believe her eyes as she looked around the room, turning in circles to see every part of it. The hardwood floors, the beautiful dining table that she loved from one of her magazines, a large archway leading to the living area, still to be furnished. However, the thing that got her immediately was the huge kitchen. It was her dream kitchen, with a big island bench in the middle, a beautiful stove and oven, the cabinets painted a dark shade of green with gold handles, and marble countertops. There was a picture window in the kitchen with a ledge, with an empty glass box for her herbs.

Y/N looked back at Dean, his smirk wide as he bit his lip, gaging her reaction. She laughed as she launched herself into him, wrapping her arms around his neck. She felt tears prick her eyes as she shook her head.

“You like?” he asked, rubbing his hand down her back.

She pulled away slightly to look up at him. “Like?” She shook her head, as she looked around again. “Dean… I’m speechless. I-I… I absolutely love it.”

“Okay, good, because it’s still not quite done. I left a few things like the living area and painting unfinished, so they we can decide that stuff together.”

“It’s all perfect, and it’s going to be even more perfect once it’s completely done. Dean… it’s beautiful. It’s… it’s my dream house” she choked up, not being able to talk.

There were large windows in the living area, and large French doors that led out to the covered porch, and then the backyard.

“Everything’s done, just needs furnishing and your touch. Master suite is done but not furnished. Guest room’s done and we can put your bed in there for now, but I left the other two rooms unfurnished too… for… well, you know” he muttered, his cheeks turning red. He was already thinking about how their future kids.

She smiled through tears, leaning in and kissing him, feverishly. “I love you. I love that you put everything into this for yourself, for me… for our future family.”

My love is strong

With you there is no wrong

Together we shall go until we die, my, my, my

He leaned in and kissed her again, wrapping his arms around her waist as he pulled her deeper into the kiss.

“That’s a lot of candles” she laughed when she pulled away.

“Thank Charlie and Meg for that. They wanted to help make tonight special for you” he told her, smiling as he kissed her softly again.

“For us” she playfully corrected him.

He chuckled, nodding. “Yeah. Us.”

He looked down at her and Y/N smiled at him, squinting slightly as she noticed something different in his eyes. She couldn’t quite place it but it didn’t seem like it was a bad thing.

An inspiration is what you are to me

Inspiration, look, see

Y/N slowly pulled away from him and smiled as she walked away, going into the kitchen. She ran her hand over the countertops, opening cabinets and drawers, smiling the entire time. Dean was glad she had taken a moment to do that, as he took a deep breath, nervously touching his back pocket to his jeans. He smiled as he watched her; the dream he had so many times over the years was finally taking shape. She looked up at him and frowned, seeing his nervous stance as he stood there in the room. She walked over to him, placing her hands on his chest. He gulped as he looked down at her, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“Dean… are you okay?” she asked, her voice slightly scared.

“I’m okay” he nodded, as he took her left hand in his and brought it to his lips, kissing it. “In fact, I’m better than okay. I’ve been better than okay since you came into my life.”

She smiled at him, feeling the same way for him.

And so today, my world, it smiles

Your hand in mine, we walk the miles

“You came here and changed everything; you turned everything upside down in the best way possible, sweetheart. You made me realize what I was missing. You’ve been everything I’ve ever needed in my life. You’ve supported me and actually cared about what I do. I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I’m so glad I have you. You saved me” he told her, pulling her in close as he looked into her eyes.

“Dean” she sighed, looking up at him with all the love she had for him.

“I want us to make a life here. I want us to be a family. I promise you, right here, right now – I’ll always take care of you. I’ll never hurt you, or make you feel you’re less than what you are. You’re beautiful, strong, smart, kind and caring. You love everyone around you, and they know that you’ve got their back. I know you’ve been hurt in the past, but I promise… I’ll never do that to you. I never thought I’d get to have this; a beautiful woman to make a life with, but I know I don’t want it with anyone else but you” he said, as he moved back slightly.

Y/N’s eyes widened as Dean crouched down, getting down on one knee, her hand still in his.

And thanks to you it will be done

For you to me are the only one

“Dean” she gasped, as fresh tears welled in her eyes.

“I want you for the rest of my life, sweetheart. I love you, more than I ever thought possible to love someone. I promise I’ll love you for the rest of our lives” he smiled, his voice shaking with emotion. He reached into his back pocket and took out the little black box, opening it to reveal a beautiful, sparkling modest diamond ring in a platinum setting.

Y/N sobbed as she cupped her other hand over her mouth, the tears running down her face. She looked Dean in the eyes as he spoke, seeing everything he promised her, right there in his beautiful green orbs.

“Y/N Y/L/N… will you marry me?” he asked, his heart feeling like it would explode any minute.

Y/N pulled her hand away from her mouth, laughing through tears. “Yes! Yes, Dean, yes!”

Dean beamed, his smile brighter than ever before, as he took out the ring from the box and slowly slipped it onto her ring finger. He stood up, slightly off balance as she jumped on him, wrapping her arms around his neck. His automatically went around her waist, lifting her up, her heeled feet dangling above the ground. She pressed her lips to his, kissing him hard and passionately.

“I love you” she said, between kisses. “I love you, so much.”

“I love you too, sweetheart” he whispered, unable to stop kissing her. “Fuck, I love you so damn much.”

Happiness, no more be sad

Happiness – I’m glad

Y/N pulled away to look into Dean’s eyes, her face level with his. She leaned her forehead against his, tears still running down her face. Dean leaned in and kissed them away, smiling at her. She looked down at her ring, her smile beaming as bright as the diamond.

“It’s so beautiful” she said, wiggling her finger against the light of the candles in the room.

“It’s was my mom’s” he told her, smirking. “When I told her that I was planning on proposing, she gave it to me.”

Y/N was shocked as she shook her head. “She wanted you to give this to me?”

“Yeah, Y/N. She loves you; we all do. You’re a part of our family. She wanted you to have it… I want you to have it” he explained, looking into her eyes with all the sincerity of the situation.

“But, Eileen…” Y/N shook her head, not understanding.

“Sam bought his own ring back then, because he told mom when she offered hers that I should be the one to give it to someone. Who knew it would take this long to find the one woman worthy of it, but here we are” he said, smiling down at her.

Y/N choked out a sob, as fresh tears started. “I love it. I love you, Dean. I’m so happy.”

“Me too” he said, feeling his eyes getting misty.

They stood there in each other’s embrace, in the middle of the room, unable to stop kissing and touching each other. They weren’t sure how much time had passed. All they cared about in that moment was each other. However, Dean slowly put her down on her feet and took her hand, leading her across the room and up the wood staircase. He walked her slowly down the hallway once she admired the space near the landing, knowing that it would make a nice space for their future children. He led her past the rooms and into what would be their bedroom, smirking as he saw a few candles there too, blankets on the carpeted floor and a few throw pillows.

Dean turned to Y/N and pulled her close to him, leaning down and kissing her, feverishly. They slowly undressed each other as Dean laid her down on the blankets, her head on one of the pillows. Dean moved within her, wrapped tightly in her embrace, as they made love in their new home for the first time.

As they laid back against the pillows and basked in the afterglow, Dean leaned in and kissed her again, smiling against her lips as they continued their passionate exchange.

It wasn’t the first, and it certainly wouldn’t be the last.

There would be many more for years to come, as it held the promise of a lifetime together.

If the sun refused to shine

I would still be loving you

When mountains crumble to the sea

There will still be you and me

-x-

Tags: @flamencodiva​ @deanwanddamons​ @winchest09​ @katehuntington​ @akshi8278​ @hobby27​ @michellethetvaddict​ @spngirl05​ @kyjey​ @halesandy​ @440mxs-wife​ @stoneyggirl​ @deanswaywardgirl​ @wonder-cole​ @that-one-gay-girl​ @redbarn1995​ @marianita195​ @babypink224221​ @deans-baby-momma​ @parinarain​ @thoughts-and-funnies​ @mandalou29​ @castiels-a-winchester @ellewritesfix05​ @jerkbitchidjitassbutt​ @supraveng​ @roonyxx​ @supernatural-love14​ @vicmc624​ @prettyboyswow​ @lunarmoon8​ @supernatural-bellawinchester​

[pantheon-god-of-war]

If possible, are there any Pantheon skins that you wish to be Canon?

Just give us a Legendary The Warrior skin of Pantheon reborn.

Lore wise it could be after the Ruination. Atreus has expelled Pantheon from his body with his own gritty resolve, Pantheon requires a vessel to take form in mortal shape but the war of the Ruination has caused so much havoc and strengthened him so much that he manages to keep a corporal form for a brief while. He retreats to the peak of Targon and to spite Atreus revives his long-dead friend Pylas to possess and mold his flesh to the war gods needs. Pantheon is fully in control because Pylas has long since died, only using the body himself.

Now Pantheon pursues the interests of Targon and his own dark desires while Atreus tries to actively counter the War god. Both will still fight the darkin, but for different reasons. Pantheon will do so because they threaten Targon Prime and Atreus does so to save the humans that's would undoubtedly die in the wake of the darkin.

VOICELINES

Pantheon differs from Atreus in a few key aspects (heh) where Atreus is noble and stalwart, Pantheon is deliberate and ruthless, where Atreus anger towards the gods is a cold and determined hate Pantheon's contempt for mortals, darkin and all those who would face him is clearly made evident, he speaks with pride, being condescending to everyone he encounters, thirsting for another challenge to vanquish. His LoR voice lines already highlight his personality quite well and I think the sound effects work perfectly for him, that could all be ported from LoR into league to replicate the sound effect. Voice line wise he could have interactions with the following:

Pantheon (Atreus) - While Pantheon does not outright hate Atreus like let's say Aatrox for example he sees the mortal man as a failure of a warrior, knowing only defeat his entire life. Interactions would be more condescending.

Ascended Pantheon - Here Pantheon would see Ascended Atreus as a worthy challenge, something along the lines of "Perhaps now you can prove yourself worthy." Or something more condescending. "No matter the cosmic might you hold, you will always be a mortal."

Aatrox - He loathes Aatrox with a passion for what he did to him, but also realizes that the Darkin might be his only true equal combat-wise.

Leona - Pantheon would be fond of Leona, applaud her for her fine work, call her the daughter of Targon, and that the sun is proud of what she has wrought upon the Mountain. He would tell her that she is right, that she needs to defend her people from the coming darkness and not grow careless upon her golden throne. He would support the militaristic order of the Solari and goad on their zealous witch hunt as in the end all he cares about is war and the more carnage Leona causes on the mountain in the name of the sun, the stronger he gets.

Diana - Diana is the same as Leona, he would tell her to keep fighting, to hold on and think of her people. That he can see the cracks in the Solari foundation and that soon the moon will triumph. Much like Leona, these are sweet lies to goad both of them onward to fight harder and grow more reckless in their pursuit of victory.

Taric - Taric is the antithesis to Pantheon, championing love and life against his war and hate, He would call out Taric and try to kill the noble hero because he spits on the ideals Taric protects.

Soraka - Pantheon would be disappointed in Soraka, to have forsaken the stars for these mortals, he would never understand and while he is not hostile he also tells her that she is dead to him. Just another mortal.

Zoe - He would want to know how Zoe sealed the Darkin away, and if there is a way to make them disappear forever. He would also be annoyed by her childish appearance/demeanor since Myisha was a lot more mature than Zoe.

Aurelion Sol - He would remind Aurelion Sol that with his return the tether locking him to Targon grows stronger again. It has been Pantheon for ages to bind Aurelion to Targon and now with him returned Pantheon will make sure Aurelion is put back in his place.

Other Darkin - He would simply tell them that their end is nigh, that Pantheon has found them, and that they are about to expire.

Other Gods/Demi Gods - here it depends on how many interactions would be wanted, he could comment on the powers of the sun disc being borrowed from the Sun/Solari/Leona's aspect or challenge Volibear to a fight. Lots more here if interactions need to be stretched out.

Sion - Pantheon looks kindly on Sion, a beast revived for war, its very humanity dull and eroded where only violence and anger remain. Pantheon would call Sion his champion of War and tell him to go slaughter in the name of war.

Other Warriors (Garen/Tryndamere/Darius/Olaf/etc) He would salute them and challenge them to combat, noting how a death at his feet is the greatest honor they can wish for.

A cool idea for VO would be that he gets a Taunt like normal champs but then you get different voice lines for ally champions when you hit taunt.

Example

Enemy Pantheon - "Atreus, you come before me again, with my very own spear. Kneel boy. A dog should recognize it's better."

Ally Pantheon - "You feel the power, let loose Atreus, show me your rage and perhaps you will be worthy of my favor."

Enemy Aatrox - "Another one of your flesh puppets for me to rend Aatrox? Pathetic!"

Ally Aatrox - "You and me against them?! Who can stand against Aspect AND Darkin?"

Enemy Leona - "You say you burn as the sun does! So then, show me your fire girl!"

Ally Leona - "The daughter of Targon and War eternal who could hope to stand against such a phalanx of spear, sword, and shield?"

I always wanted to have more interaction with allies, since you only see enemy champions every now and then, and even if you do they mostly attack you and never let you enjoy the interactions. Whereas if you play with friends you can actually enjoy this content of ally interaction. Idk why Riot has not done this before.

MODEL

The base design doesn't have to differ so much from the Legends of Runeterra Warrior design. (KEEP IT RED) Red stands for hot-headed aggression, red stands for fire, red stands for blood. Red is a color much more fitting to war than blue and the argument that Pantheon's cape is blue to show his allegiance with the stars is null and void since LoR showed us all HOW GOOD red looks on Pantheon. It fits so much better.

Some small tweaks here and there perhaps but overall the base model looks great. If the cape would be longer and more flowing like Yoric it would be great, aside from that there could be small visual design changes for reaching levels 6/11/16. Also as a longtime Pantheon main I really love the aesthetic of his face being shrouded, I dislike the new post rework Pantheon skins for that very reason. Pulsefire, Ruined and even Ascended Pantheon are all marred by the face that they show his face, when his facelessness was something that made him stand out. In this skin he should absolutely not have a face since he is a divine being that helmet should be his face, the face of war, nothing else.

The colors get brighter and hotter, to signal that Pantheon is getting supercharged with the psychic energies of war, colors would go from red-orange to bright yellow, additionally, the number of spears in his cape could also increase from 2/4/6 at levels 6/11/16 with small edits like the passive fire on spear and shield and the fire plume increasing in sizes slightly.

ADDITIONALLY

There could be a number of smaller tweaks to make the VFX stand out. Like pulling a new spear from his cape after Pantheon throws it. Or that Pantheon doesn't even throw the main spear but shoots a spear forward from his cape as he can manifest them. Voicelines like "Unstoppable, War eternal an Invincible!" could be added to his E whenever he uses it as if he mocks whoever dares attack him. "Here mortal, or just Heel!" when he stuns you.

His ult could be Pantheon coming straight down where the spear lands, instead of in an angle, and the angle is then covered by either a spear storm or meteorite shards. The straight-down Pantheon landing being a homage to Grand Skyfall. He does not land sooner and he still shoots down a spear first, but this time he just lands from above.

As for the dance, either you give him some workout to flex on people or you give him the Ricardo Milos dance. Which let's be honest, everyone wants to see.

Lore wise I think Pantheon is very important. Currently, we have Pantheon (Atreus) Diana and Taric who are all outright heroes. Aphelios serves under Diana and Zoe does not really care she does whatever she wants. Soraka while a hero lives secluded. Targon only has Leona as a villain and the celestial Pantheon would fill that slot very well. He is the god of war, he would try to rouse them all against one another and also give them a reason to unite against him. To fight together, and perhaps even be incentive enough for Leona and Diana to lay down their weapons and join forces.

Additionally, all it takes is a skin to create a champion's worth of impact on the league universe. There doesn't need to be a new champion from Targon to push the narrative forward which means less time that needs to be invested on Riots part.

Thank you for your time, I will be sitting here on my mountain top, waiting and hoping that I started a fire.

[jaycewrites-192000]

Growl: Chapter 12

Warnings: None Tag List: @theravencawsatmidnight @etroman @kaariqueen

Today was the day, the day where Seijoh would face off aginst Kaisei Academy, a well known school with a very skilled Volleyball team. They were so good in fact, that they would become an obstacle for Aoba Johsei if not taken down a peg. And that's why Seijoh was here today, to show Kaisei Academy that they were the best! Right now, each team were having a team meeting before the game starts. While Seijoh were confident in their skills, there was still a hint of tension in the air.

"Alright guys, this is it." Oikawa started, as the captain it was his job to get his team hyped and ready for the match. But it was also his job to restore their confidence, make them feel like they could do anything if they really put their whole hearts and souls into it. "We're going to show those Kaisei jerks just who they're up against. We are Seijoh, we back down to no one! The moment we step onto that court, we show no mercy! Kaisei and every other team that challenges us will known that our team is nothing to mocked or looked down upon. I believe in all you, I know we can win this! Now, let's show them what we go!" The teamed collectively gave a frim, "Right!" back to their captain.

"But before we do, L/n-Chan has something she would like to say to everyone." Oikawa stepped aside for Y/n, who approached the team nervously. She cleared her throat and tried to ignore their eyes as she spoke. "I-I know things have been a little weird recently, I haven't stepped up as a manager like I promised I would. I gave you all my word and then I failed to make good on it, and for that I'm very sorry." She bows her head. "But, from now on, I'll be there for each and every one of you. I'll be here for this team like I should, I'll give you all my best, and I'll try harder every single day. Because that's what a manager does." She continued.

"Starting from now, you can rely on me. And I'll rely on you guys to win this match and many more like this." She gives the team a warm smile. "Good luck!" The team all felt their hearts flutter at her kind words. It was nice having a girl, a cute girl at that, cheer them on. But it was even nicer when she was this caring and appreciative of them. But secretly, Y/n would be cheering on Kyotani the most, and he knew that.

The bell that would signify the beginning of the match was blown. "Now go out there and win!" Y/n tells them. "Yeah!" The team says in unison as they approach the court.

The game was near it's end, and the score was tied, one more point was all that was needed in order to win this game. Things were starting to look slim for Seijoh, tension was clear in their movements. They were just as unsure as Y/n, who was on the sidelines watching with bated breath. She never knew volleyball could get so intense, she never understood why there was so much passion put into each match. But now she understood, she understood what it meant to be a part of the team, what it meant to have your teammates backs, and what it meant to support them all every step of the way.

The crowd watched as the ball was sent up into the air, Kyotani was the closest person to it. It was all up to him, to make that final hit, and win the game...

Kyotani took a running start, and just as he jumped he heard the encouragement that made him forget any trace of doubt in his mind. "Go for it Ken!!" Y/n cheered over the crowed. Kyotani yelled fiercely as he hit the ball with every ounce of strength he had. It swooshed over the net, and passed the opposite team member's head, right onto the floor.

The whole gym went quiet, as the ref made the final call...The final whistle was blown...Seijoh, had won!

The gym filled with the cheers from the crowd, Y/n included. She ran to the team who was currently celebrating their victory. She tackled Kyotani in a tight hug, he lifted her up and spun her around. "You all did it! You won!" Y/n kissed his forehead. "Of course we did! We're Seijoh!" Oikawa exclaims happily. "You guys were amazing! Congratulations!" Y/n tells them with a big smile. With a few more celebratory words, the two teams gathered at each side of the court, and thanked each other for the match.

At the end of the day, the whole team decided to go out for a nice dinner to celebrate. And all at the cost of their oh so wonderful captain Oikawa, who was currently regretting that decision. Each person raised their glass to make a toast. "Here's to another victory for Seijoh!" Oikawa starts. "You all worked hard out there today, I say this win was well deserved." The teamed cheered in agreement. "And, I would like to thank Y/n for becoming part of the team." His kind words made her blush. "Don't think I didn't hear you cheering for Mad-Dog out there." He winked. "Speaking of, congrats again on your relationship! Here's to Y/n and Mad-Dog! May they have a wonderful life, and many beautiful children!"

Y/n and Kyotani turned red, silently cursing their captain. "Oi, stop embarrassing them." Iwaizumi elbowed him. Y/n glanced over at Kyotani and smiled softly. As embarrassing as Oikawa's words were, she hoped for the same. That Kyotani and herself would stay together for a very long time, and maybe, even have a kid or two. Not now obviously! But at some point, it would be nice. Kyotani noticed her gaze,  and discreetly held her hand under the table, so the others couldn't see. Y/n rubbed her thumb over his hand gently, as a silent, "I love you too."

After a night of age appropriate drinking, eating, laughing, and just enjoying each other's company, it was time each team member made their way home. Oikawa, Iwaizumi, Kyotani and Y/n were the last to go. "Be safe on your way back." Iwaizumi tells them. "We will. Thanks again you guys. I had a lot of fun tonight." Y/n says appreciatively. "Anytime Y/n. Don't forget to show up for practice tomorrow you two." Oikawa waves as he walked side by side with Iwaizumi. "Goodnight." Y/n waved before turning to Kyotani.

"You ready?" He asked, reaching for her hand. Y/n nods and takes it with her own, they then walked their way back home. "You were awesome out there Ken." Y/n says as she snuggles into his arm. "Was I?" Kyotani's cheeks heat up. "Yeah, you were intense before, but during that game, you were something completely different. You were...you were just so amazing! I can't wait for the next game." Y/n says happily. Kyotani grinned, he really liked that Y/n was warming up to volleyball. Even gaining the same love he had for it since he was a kid.

It just made his love for her grow even more. "Y/n?" Y/n looked up at him with a hum. Before she knew what was happening, his lips were on her own. It didn't take her long to relax into the kiss and return it. She sighed breathlessly as she wrapped her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss. She felt Kyotani's arms snake around her waist, pulling her in closer to him. The two pulled apart, needing air, before locking eyes with each other.

All that the two could ponder in this very moment was, 'how did I get so lucky?'. Kyotani reached up and moved a stray lock of hair from her face, then gently strokes her cheek. "I love you so much Y/n." He speaks softly. Y/n smiled and leaned into his touch. "I love you too Ken, so very, very much." The two stayed in each other's embrace for a bit longer before continuing on their way, hand in hand.

It was strange, at first glance, you would wonder why Y/n would want to be with someone like Kyotani. He could come across as just another cruel delinquent, but underneath all that was a misunderstood,  kind, and gentle person that Y/n loved with all her heart. She couldn't have asked for anyone better, and it was the same for Kyotani. He never thought anyone could love him for who he was, and yet, here Y/n was. Willing to love him with everything she had. He would make sure to never forget the kindness she had shown him, and the love that she held only for him.

He would make sure to care for her, and love her like it was his final days. He would never let her slip away so easy.

And to think, all this started...with a growl...

The End

Eight years had gone by since that day, and every since then, Y/n and Kyotani had stayed together, their relationship as strong as it was since they first started dating. Their love for volleyball had never went away, as Kyotani was now  a V. League Division 2 player. He played on a team called the Sendai Frogs. Y/n, while not a manager anymore, worked her dream job as a (career/occupation). Still she would always go to his games and cheer him on, he started to call her his own personal cheerleader.

Many changes had occurred in their life, they graduated high school, got jobs, their own home, and now, Y/n and Kyotani were expecting a new addition to their little family. It wouldn't be long now before the bundle of joy would arrive, less than a month in fact. It was quite the shock when they both found out that they would be having not one, but two babies. Twins, one girl and one boy.

And of course when Oikawa found out, he was more than excited. Too excited. Like he was the one having the baby. He chipped in and bought all sorts of baby clothes, mountains of diapers, and two very expensive cribs for the babies. Iwaizumi had to take charge and hold onto his idiotic husband's credit card for a while. He was going to cause them to go broke all on baby items! Don't get him wrong, he was more than happy for Y/n and Kyotani, and couldn't wait to meet the babies when they arrived. But seriously, Oikawa was going to cause them to go bankrupted.

Another bittersweet change was that Killer, Kyotani's dog had passed away of old age two years ago. It left Kyotani devastated, he loved Killer, and he was gone. Y/n was just as sad, Killer was like family to them both. It just felt so empty without him around, so Y/n came up with an idea. She knew no dog could ever replace Killer, but she gifted Kyotani with a Shiba puppy on his birthday. When Kyotani started to cry, she figured she had done something wrong. But quite the opposite, Kyotani loved the new puppy. He even named him Killer Jr.

So life was pretty good. Kyotani and Y/n were still happy and in love, expecting twins, and had a loyal companion. What more could they ask for?

Kyotani held Y/n in his arms, gently stroking her pregnant belly, chuckling whenever he would feel his children kick at him. Killer Jr. was laying across her legs, staying alert for anyone who would try and harm his owners. Y/n looked up at her husband, his eyes were closed and a warm smile across his face. Her eyes trailed to the wall in front of them, above their TV was his old jersey from back in high school. Number 16. His number, proudly displayed for all to see.

On the TV stand were pictures of Y/n and Kyotani from over the years. When they graduated, when they both got wasted at that collage party she dragged him to, when they first moved into their shared home. She figured there was room for one more. "Ken?" Y/n says softly, Kyotani hummed. "Can you grab the camera for me?" She asks. Kyotani sits up right. "Why?" He asked as he stood up from the couch. "I want to take a picture of us. You can never have too many happy memories."

Kyotani searched around for a bit before finding the camera. He hurried back over and snuggled up to Y/n again and handing her the camera. She raised it up high and kissed his cheek, Killer Jr. walked over and laid in Kyotani's lap. The camera clicked and flashed, Y/n pulled away and took a look at the picture. "Perfect." She smiled. Kyotani chuckled and pet Killer Jr.'s head. "Wanted to be in it too bud?" Killer Jr. barked and licked his hand.

"You're so photogenic buddy." Y/n giggled. "He should be a dog model-oh!" Y/n put her hand on her stomach. "That was uh...a big kick." Kyotani puts his hand on hers. "You ok?" He asked. "Yes, it was just-Ah! Ooookay...um...Ken? I think our babies want to be free." Kyotani's eyes widened. "N-now...?" Kyotani mutters. "Yep." Y/n nods. "Now!?" Kyotani exclaims. "Yes now Ken!" Y/n flinches at another harsh kick. Kyotani jumped up and quickly grabbed his keys.

He ran back over and helped Y/n up and got her out the door and into the car and rush to the hospital.

It was hectic at first, but after hours of labor the twins had finally made their way into the world. Y/n held her two babies close to her chest, even drenched in sweat and exhausted Kyotani still found her beautiful. His knees nearly gave in at the sight of her and his two children. He kneeled down next to the bed. "They're so...small." It was all he could say. Y/n smiled and kissed her babies' heads. "Yeah..."

The door to the room opened wide, no other than Oikawa himself strode in. "I came as soon as I heard!" Iwaizumi followed in after. "This is a hospital, tone it down!" He hissed. "Ohhh, let me see." Oikawa walked over to the other side of the bed. He teared up at the sight of them. "What are their names?" He asked. Y/n looked down at the girl. "This one is Yui." She looked down at the boy. "And this one is Ryu."

(Sorry if they're bad, I'm not creative when it comes to names.)

"They're so precious." Oikawa whines. Iwaizumi walks over with a smile. "Congrats you too. They're beautiful." Y/n and Kyotani thanks them before turning their attention back to their kids.

"Yui and Ryu...Welcome to the world."

Previous | Completed

[jostepherjoestar]

gyro, johnny, diego, & hot pants headcanons abt comforting their best friend (whom they've been pining for) after a break-up ? i love your writing so much <3

Gyro, Johnny, Diego and Hot Pants comforting their best friend (who they’ve secretly been pining for) after a breakup HC’s

gn reader // sfw

So happy to do some Steel Ball Run stuff :DD thanks for requesting as always <3 love this type of trope hehe ENJOOOY!!

Gyro

Gyro is by your side immediately. He’ll drop whatever he was doing to come over and comfort you. You walked over to his place, tears still streaming down your face from the pain. You knew the breakup was coming but damn it still hurts so bad.

He’ll hug you tightly for as long as you need, shushing you while moving his hands up and down your back rhythmically. Gyro is caring with his close friends yes, but the way he cares for you is a level or 10 above. His feelings for you gnawed at him, especially whenever he saw you together with your ex.

He never acted on his feelings though, Gyro wanted to see you happy and if that idiot broke up with you, it’s their loss. He’ll be the one telling you how amazing you are and how you deserve so much better.

After much crying and talking about what happened he felt it was finally the right time to bring back your smile. The best way to cure a broken heart is with laughter! He’ll sit down with you on the couch, both a warm drink in hand. Tissues next to you just in case things get too emotional. He’ll poke your cheeks into a smile as a starter, it didn’t really do much to your mood but seeing him try made you feel a little lighter.

Gyro still has some good stories and jokes he made up in the back of his mind that he hasn’t told you, so what better time to tell them than now. A small smile returns to your face, not to its full potential but it’s a start. Just listening to him babble on and on serves as a good distraction.

He’ll ask you to sleep over for the night, just so you’re not alone. Staying up late and having another one of those deep talks you so enjoyed with him as you fall asleep on his shoulder. Maybe if you’ve done some healing he’ll ask you out, but for now he’ll take care of you for however long you need.

Johnny

Oh dear... Johnny isn’t that great with being all touchy feely. He fully understands how horrible a break up can feel but he’s not the best at consoling others. But he’ll be damned if he doesn’t try his best. He’ll come over to yours with a warm blanket. It’s the best he could think of, if you’re warm on the outside, the inside will follow, right?

Johnny’s feelings for you are complicated, he’s seen you as more than a friend for quite some time. He beat himself up about it while you were in your relationship, trying his best to forget about it. But his feelings surmounted.

The most selfish part of Johnny was glad your partner was out of the picture now, he never liked them anyway. But he’ll never tell you that information, it’d do you no good.

He’ll awkwardly hug you back but the longer the hug lasts the tighter he grips you. This is where he wanted you to stay, right in his arms. But for now he’ll push his thoughts aside and comfort you. Asking if you want to trash talk your ex. He’ll hold back of course, laughing at your release of frustration.

He lined up some old cans outside and lets you aim his fingernail bullets, slightly adjusting your shot here and there so you’d always hit the targets. After the fun shoot out, he’ll horserace you to the top of a hill, his favourite lookout place. The view was amazing, endles plains just outside the city, the sun setting right between the mountains.

When you both get to the top, perhaps Johnny letting you win just so you’d feel better, he tells you to scream. “Scream as loud as you can possibly muster, it’ll feel better than screaming into a pillow.”

You screamed so loud your throat felt sore but damn it felt good. Johnny knows that sometimes it’s better to let it all out than keep it in. The ride back is slow and peaceful, talking about all the things running through your minds while it slowly gets dark.

Diego

Diego doesn’t have a lot of friends, so when he does let you in, you’re staying. He’s very loyal and even opened up a lot more so when you tell him about the break up he’s fuming. How dare your ex hurt you like this. “Do you want me to hurt them? Just a little?” he’ll jokingly prod but you know he’s 100% serious.

His feelings for you had been a surprise to him, yes of course he’s found others attractive but he’s never looked at anyone like he does at you. He noticed his heartbeat quicken when you’re around and feels a deep need to be close to you. Often wondering how beautiful you’d look lying next to him at night, cuddled into his arms, your cute tired smile looking up at him.

He wanted to confess so badly, feeling like he was being dishonest with you but convinced it would only result in a negative outcome. It hurt to see you with someone else but he knew he had to be supportive. It made him angry that your partner was the one who got to be so close to you. Feeling relieved of that anger when you told him about the breakup, but still guilty.

Similar to Johnny he’d want you to work out any pent up aggression towards your ex. Maybe work out some of his own. When he suggested it, you felt like a mischievous teenager again, but you agreed nonetheless. “Let’s egg their house!”

You both stuffed your bag full of fresh eggs from the farm next door, they won’t miss them, they got eggs comin’ out the wazoo! Deciding to walk since their house wasn’t far, the fresh air feeling invigorating, filling you both with an ambition to be as annoying as possible.

It felt so great, throwing the eggs with all your might! The windows and entrance covered in goop and shells, when suddenly the front door swung open. A very confused ex stepping out, you scrambled to Diego’s side yelling at him to run. He gestured for you to jump on his back, turning into a dino and rushing you both away from their house but not before he throws an egg right at your ex’s face.

Barely able to breathe from laughter, Diego stopped in a field far away from the now slimy house. Sitting in the tall grass next to each other, regaining your breaths. He was happy to see you smile again, it’ll take some time to get over it, but it felt possible with Diego by your side. “Thank you Diego.” If it wasn’t for the current situation he’d have kissed you right on the spot.

Hot Pants

Just like Diego she will want to hunt down your ex for a good o’ll fight. She’ll bring it up with a deadpan face so you seriously have to talk her out of doing it.

When she’s settled again she’ll focus on you. Because of the way she talks, perhaps a bit rougher, her questions hit harder. Like she really wants to know the answer and will get it out of you regardless of your choice. But you like that about her, it’s the honest caring that makes her so great.

Hot Pants will invite you over to her place and ask you to cook with her. “You need a good hearty meal, crying that much tires you out.” she said while cutting carrots. Her love language is more on the practical side, show them you love them more than you tell them.

And god she wishes she could tell you how much she loves you. She’s never met anyone like you, so kind and loving, always bringing her up when she’s in a bout of guilt. The way you laughed at her crude jokes, the way you held onto her arm when you took a walk together.

She was scared to see you with a partner, but made peace with the thought of never being able to be with you. If that was the way it was going to be, fine. But with all her might she hoped that when the time was right you could be together. So she held onto that thought and prayed for the day it came.

She’ll help you get back up from the worst parts of the break up, ordering you around to get your life back together, offering a shoulder to cry on, a warmth to hug. Perhaps a bit soon she’ll ask you out on a date when you’re past the slump. Hot Pants does not waste time.

[queenof-literature]

Hero of Wild - Chapter 6

I’m sorry about the delay… again… life really does get in the way sometimes doesn’t it? Anyway, I’m kinda planning my timelines/series as I go along, so if things don’t correlate I will try to fix them later. There’s also been some confusion about my story timelines and why Wild can talk in some stories and not in others. Sorry for the confusion! In my stories if WIld can talk then it takes place after this series which is a work in progress. For any questions to the order of my stories, please visit my Masterlist on my Tumblr, @queenof-literature. Thank you as always for the insane amount of support. Love you all and hope you’re doing well!

**This fic portrays Selective Mutism and trouble with speech how I and my peers have experienced it**

TW: Taunting/Bullying (No slurs), Minor Panic Attack 

Wild was still a mystery. It had been more than a week since Wild had joined their little crew. Sky and everyone else thought they were done receiving heroes, but Hylia still had surprises for them it seemed. Oh well, Hylia did what she thought was best, and Wild was a good person to have around. After the first time they saw him fight that Lynel, no one could deny that. Yet Sky couldn’t help but wonder why Hylia waited so long. Why make Wild more of an outsider than necessary by waiting more than two months to introduce him? Sky knew he would probably never know the answer, Hylia did what she needed to, but it was still something he questioned. They were back in Wild’s Hyrule once again, even though they were just here a week ago. After Wild’s Hyrule the first time, they went to Sky’s, then a random one, then back to Wild’s again for seemingly no reason. Sky hadn’t even gotten to see Zelda before he left his own Hyrule… it was just frustrating. But Sky tried not to let it show, getting mad wouldn’t help anyone. Sky looked back at Wild, who was doing his best to keep his distance from the group. Well as much as he could, Warriors and Twilight seemed to be worried that him and Hyrule would wander off again to ‘shield surf’. 

“Hey Wild?” Sky called out lowly. Wild looked up, eyes full of question and apprehension. He didn’t seem to be in a talk- signing mood today. “Are we still going down the right path?” The Links were currently traveling through a small patch of trees after what Wild had called Proxim Bridge, heading straight towards what seemed to be two large mountains, or one that was split right down the middle. Wild nodded, lifting his hands to sign. 

‘The path is straight through the mountains to the stable.’ Sky remembered Wild telling Time there was a stable after the mountain, but it was unusual for Wild to direct them down a large path. Even knowing him for a little over a week, Sky knew that Wild absolutely hated traveling main roads on foot.

“Okay, thanks Wild.” Sky smiled back at him. Wild had seemed to come out of his head slightly, awkwardly coming up to walk a shorter distance from Sky. The older assumed it was in case anyone else had questions. He didn’t mean to make Wild uncomfortable, he just wanted to be sure they weren’t lost. Wild glanced at him, as if expecting him to make small talk the boy obviously wasn’t comfortable at the moment. “We don’t have to talk, we can just walk.” Sky offered, low enough so only Wild could hear him. The other boy simply nodded, though Sky could see the grateful look in his eyes. 

The group walked in, a mix of lulled conversation and comfortable silence sweeped over them, and it was moments like these that Sky could simply appreciate his surroundings. As they approached the looming cliffs, Sky couldn’t help but appreciate the beauty of it all. Wild’s Hyrule was savage and massive and overwhelming, but it was also beautiful. The tall rocky walls reflected the bright afternoon sun, the rocks a deep navy blue instead of ominous gray. 

Sky felt a small tap on his shoulder and looked towards his companion.

“Yes, Wild?” Sky questioned softly, doing his best to not draw attention to them.

‘There’s some monster camps between the cliffs. They usually leave people alone but we need to stay on the path.’ Wild signed to Sky. Even after that small of a conversation, Wild seemed to slump down a little further. It was almost unnoticeable, but Sky was always good at reading people. Wild said the stable was almost directly after the end of the mountain path, so hopefully he would be able to run off and recharge while the rest of the group stayed at the stable for the night. 

“Guys.” Sky called out, gathering the other’s attention. “Wild says that there’s monster camps coming up, but we should be ignored if we stay on the path.” Wild looked slightly flustered that Sky had spoken up for him, but he sent a grateful nod in the older’s direction. 

“When isn’t there a horde of monsters in this Hyrule.” Legend grumbled. No one could really tell if he truly hated Wild’s Hyrule or if he was just being sarcastic. It was hard to tell with him sometimes. 

“Thanks for the heads up, Wild.” Time interrupted, nodding his thanks to Sky for relaying the message. 

The group continued on along the river, looking up in wonder when they finally entered the enclosed path. 

“Is that a shrine up there, Wild?” Wind pointed widely to the blue glow in the distance. The rest of the group turned their attention on Wild, who squirmed slightly under their gaze.

‘Yes. One here, two on top.’ Wild signed quickly to get their attention somewhere else. Sky wanted to ask about their challenges, since Wild’s trials really interested all of them, but thought better of it when he remembered how uncomfortable Wild seemed in their large group today.

“We sure we should just leave those camps there?” Legend asked, glancing between the screaming Bokoblins and the Lizalfos swimming in the rushing river.

“If you want to fight them all, be my guest.” Warriors snarked. 

“Wild said it’s fine.” Time gruffed, halting that argument before it started. As much as Time wanted to kill any monsters possible to avoid future incidents, in Wild’s land they just seemed to keep coming. Plus the boys were all weary. Even Legend seemed to dread the very idea he brought up.

Wild felt a cold hand squeeze his heart. If they got attacked after Wild explicitly that it would probably be safe, then would they ever trust Wild again? Even if they did, Wild would never forgive himself…

“Is that the stable ahead?” Hyrule asked, glancing at the rustic horse head in the distance. Wild nodded a little dumbly, not noticing how far they had made it. 

“Yes!” Wind yelled, and the group sped up with newfound energy. Stops on their journey were always a relief, no matter how brief they were. 

~

After the group finally emerged from the cliffs above, the stable was in plain sight. The group crossed a flat rickety bridge. It reminded Twilight of the bridges the other children in Ordon would claim had trolls beneath. Wild called it Big Twin Bridge, although it certainly wasn’t big compared to some of the bridges the other Links had seen. 

As they approached the group felt the same warm aura that Wild’s stables seemed to radiate. The first thing Twilight noticed was the pen of animals every stable seemed to have. 

“Are those goats?” Twilight asked Wild, thinking back to the apparent sheep the last stable had. Wild nodded with a small smirk, already knowing Twilight well enough to know the older would go greet the goats when there was time. There were few people at the stable besides the group of nine, but that seemed to be normal for Wild’s Hyrule. Once again, they saw a scrawny young man carrying a beetle shaped bag three times his size.

“Is he everywhere?” Legend whispered incredulously to Warriors.

‘Beetle.’ Wild finger spelled to them.

“Is that his name?” Warriors laughed, only laughing harder when Wild nodded.

~

  “Wild? Are you coming inside?” Four asked, nodding his head to the other Links filing inside the stable to relax around the small table within. Wild shook his head and gestured vaguely to the fire pot. 

“But… Dinner isn’t until a lot later?” Four’s brow furrowed, looking towards the sun in the middle of the sky. 

‘Has to simmer.’ Wild signed fingerspelling the last word Four didn’t recognize, and Four mentally shelved the word for ‘simmer’ he just learned. 

“Okay… but will you come inside after it starts to simmer?” Four questioned, genuinely confused as to why Wild seemed hesitant about going inside. Wild bit his lip then nodded slowly. “Wild… you know that you can do what you need to do in your Hyrule? If you have someone you need to see or something, just let Time or Warriors know. We’ve all had to take care of business in our Hyrule.” Four assured. He couldn’t tell for sure why Wild seemed quiet. Well… more than usual. It didn’t just seem like a bad day like when he and Hyrule went shield surfing, it felt like far more than that. He thought back to his conversation with Hyrule. Perhaps Wild had something to do, but he was too scared to say anything. It was worth a shot. To his dismay, Wild simply smiled a little and nodded. So that wasn’t it, it seemed. 

“Let me know if you need any help.” Four finished, shoving down his disappointment. Hopefully Wild would be able to let someone know if he got too bad… as slim of a chance as it was. Wild signed a quick thank you before heading to the cooking pot.

~

Hylia, he hoped they weren’t here, but he knew they would be. The ‘Treasure Hunting Bros’, still looking for treasure Link had found in under an hour. Link had made the grave mistake of trying to tell them that he had already found it. They gave him the riddle, teasing him, not expecting him to really find it. Even if their arrogance was infuriating, he didn’t want them to spend months, if not years, wasting their time for treasure that wouldn’t even be there if they found it. When he attempted to sign, they rudely waved him off. He hadn’t tried to talk that much to others verbally since he left the shrine. The times he did it didn’t go… well… but he could feel the words on his tongue if he could just push them out, he’d be fine! He tried to approach them, tried to warn them.

“I…” The first word tumbled out of his mouth, hot streaks of pain clawed up this throat. “I… f-foun… I foun-” Link felt frustration and fear only closing his throat more. Why was this so hard? He could feel the words, he could feel his mouth form to say them, why couldn’t he just get them out?

“Uhh, are you okay?” Prissen, the one on the right asked with a laugh.

“Tre-rea-” Link’s words bubbled in the back of his throat only to slur and stutter and eventually die before they even had a chance to leave. 

“You sound like a demented toddler, man. Have some water or something.” Prissen giggled out, and Wild felt his throat flame up even more. Somehow the white hot pain was still so cold.

“I don’t have time for this.” Dak snapped. “Either say whatever you’re babbling about or leave.”

So Wild left.

~

Sky didn’t know whether or not he should be worried about Wild. The boy was quiet, but that wasn’t unusual. The newest Link reminded Sky so much of himself it actually hurt some days. Sky had his bad days, but it was better now.

Wild however, he never spoke a single word. No one could touch him without him panicking and reaching for his sword. The group didn’t want to approach him like a spooked animal, but no one was quite sure what to do. Wild didn’t need to talk, or accept hugs and pats on the back to be truly a part of the group. They would accept their Brother of Courage no matter what, but Sky truly was worried there was something deeper going on. Something the Hero of Sky couldn’t fix.

Looking at the boy sitting by the fire outside the stable, Sky felt more lost than he had in a long time. Sky’s eye twitched as once again the two men conversing in the stable got too loud. Their constant whispering and occasional yell was even getting Sky slightly irritated, but there was nothing to do, they were in a public place.

“It’s him.” The one in blue snickered, now that he was paying attention Sky realized that their ‘whispers’ weren’t even secretive at all. Sky wondered who they were even talking about. It seems the one in red had the same question. 

“Who?” The one in red snapped irritably.

“That one!” To Sky’s confusion and worry, he not-so-discreetly pointed directly at Wild outside. The entire group subtly perked up at the mention of their new member. Some in the group were used to praise and whispers, however, this didn’t sound like praise.

“Is that the one that you said sounded and I quote ‘like a demented toddler’.” The one in red asked in a deadpan voice, much to the group's shock. Did that mean what Sky thought it meant? He heard shuffling and expected Warriors to be holding Legend back, he did not expect to turn and see it was the other way around.

“Just wait a second you idiot.” Legend snapped in a low whisper. “We need more information first.” Warriors took a deep breath and sagged slightly. Legend was right, not that he would ever admit it.

“That’s the one!” The one in blue laughed heartily, and Sky felt a rock in his stomach.

“I don’t have time for you to antagonize an imbecile that can’t even talk back.” The one in red warned, and Sky felt his worry turn to anger. 

“He was the one that came up to us last time! Not my fault he couldn’t even get a thought out! Tr-tre-” The one in blue mimicked. Sky felt his ears heating up in anger on behalf of their friend that was clearly being insulted. Glancing over, it seemed not even Time knew if he should speak up or keep quiet. They all seemed to have one thought running through their head: Maybe if they didn’t cause a commotion, Wild wouldn’t notice. But these two certainly weren’t quiet about their hatred towards their new friend.

“You talking about Link?” Four piped up, masking the deadly look on his face. The two patrons in front of them either didn’t notice the glares of the other Links, or they were too stupid to care. 

“That the one cooking out there?” The one in blue asked, smiling arrogantly at the boy outside.

“Yup.” Four confirmed in a clipped tone. Sky admired him trying to scope out the situation, but it was obvious the hero’s patience was running short.

“Then yeah. That’s the one.” The blue on, Sky had given up on learning his name, smirked. “Dumbass kept interrupting us, stuttering and slurring. Hell, I would have felt bad for the guy if he wasn’t so annoying. There’s obviously something wrong with him.” The loud one luaghed, finding the situation far funnier than eight furious Heroes of Courage.

“That’s it-” Wind growled before lunging forward, letting out a loud ‘oof’ when his middle was caught by Time. 

“If I were you, I’d keep your mouth shut.” Time leveled the man with a glare. 

“Don’t tell me you’re friends with that fre-”, Sky couldn’t tell which glare was more terrifying, Time’s, or Wind’s. 

“I suggest we make a deal.” Warriors’ stone cold voice spoke up. Even the one in red shot out of his thoughts for a moment. “You two stay on the other side of the stable from us, and keep your mouths shut, and we might just do the same.” 

“I suggest you take that deal.” Legend spoke up, icy blue eyes trained on the two men before them. Sky could see the man’s gears turning, the one in blue glanced at the one in red, who was masking his fear far better.

“Fine.” The man in blue spit out, following his brother to the corner of the stable with his tail between his legs, not deeming the fight worth it. 

“Where’s Wild?” Twilight questioned. Sky’s gaze snapped over the place where Wild sat, finding it vacant. Before Twilight could move Sky was getting out of his seat, his chair screeching against the wood floor.

“I’ll talk to him.” Was Sky’s only declaration before he was outside. He knew where this would lead, and he wasn’t going to let Wild suffer alone. 

~

Wild tugged his hood further up, as if that could make all the bad thoughts disappear. They knew now. They knew. Of course Wild knew they would find out eventually. They surely had their doubts about Wild’s lack of speech with the scars on his neck, but Wild wanted it to be on his terms. Not some random assholes in a stable! Wild forced himself to take a deep breath from where he sat on a log that was covered in overgrown moss. He had fled to one of the nearby patches of trees after the conversation that no one even bothered to hide. Four had asked if they were talking about Link. They knew it was him, and they asked to make sure. Would they think he could talk and just… didn’t? Now that they knew would their disappointment in him begin? They had been so nice, too nice. On the other hand, that’s what Wild thought before they made name signs. For him. They made name signs specifically to make it easier on Wild. Deep down he knew the others wouldn’t be so shallow to discard him for this, but it made battles dangerous. If he saw a monster all he could do is let out a pathetic croak as one of his teammates went down. It made conversations around the fire harder too. They were nice enough to try and include Wild, but it sometimes died off when they gave him room to sign. They were trying, and Wild was trying so hard but it’s not enough-

“Wild?” He heard a calm voice call out through the woods. That was Sky. Wild mentally smacked himself. He just left them! No note, no dinner instructions, he just ran away again. Self loathing wasn’t worth it, it never had been, so why did he always run? Maybe he should make some sort of noise to let Sky know where he was, but Wild didn’t even have the energy to do that, as selfish as it was. He just hoped his cloak would stand out against the trees and moss so Sky wouldn’t be searching for long. A few minutes later his hope came true.

“Wild?” A gentle voice asked behind him. Wild didn’t respond, of course he didn’t. He heard footsteps approaching and he pushed down his panic, it was an ally, not an enemy. Wild wanted to look up, but some of him was too ashamed to do so. 

“Wild? Can I sit down?” Sky said when he was finally next to the log. Wild liked Sky, he seemed kind and always asked him things. Questions, opinions, permission to do something like sit down next to him or put his bedroll near his, it made Wild feel a warmth he hadn’t felt in a long time. Or perhaps a certain kind of warmth he had never truly felt before. Wild simply nodded, not ready to come out of his curled position under his cloak.

“I just came to check on you.” Sky spoke as he sat down on the other side of the log, giving Wild the space the boy needed to think through everything. “What they said… it wasn’t okay Wild. Far beyond okay, it was disgusting.” Wild peered up in surprise at the venom in the other’s voice. Sky took a deep breath and continued. “Wild… can I ask you something? If that oversteps just tell me and I’ll stop or leave you alone.” Sky reassured. Wild thought for a moment. Sky wouldn’t push him, Wild could refuse to answer and the other hero wouldn’t push at all. That was just the type of man Sky was. Wild nodded once again.

“Wild… Can you talk?” Sky asked. It was just a question, just a simple yes or no should have been okay, but instead a rush of ice invaded Wild’s body. Without thinking he lifted his hands into his hair, clutching near the scalp like a lifeline. There it was. He was a damned coward, not even being upfront about why he didn’t talk to the other Links. Wild forced himself to nod his head. 

“Does it… Does it hurt you?” Sky asked hesitantly. Wild nodded again, refusing to meet the other’s eyes.

“I’m sorry, Wild. I know it doesn’t help but I’m sorry. I know how frustrating it is.” Wild once again glanced up in shock. He what? “Yeah.” Sky rubbed the back of his neck. “Speaking was hard for me when I was younger. I was left at the Knight’s Academy in Skyloft, my home, when I was a baby.” Sky began, looking over to see curious eyes peering from under Wild’s cloak. 

“I was quiet, and even when I talked I barely said anything. It took the teachers a while to figure out that sometimes I just couldn’t get the words out. I don’t know, they just couldn’t make it past my thoughts sometimes. The other kids called me stupid or said my head was in the clouds, but Zelda spoke for me on those days and I appreciated it. It never felt like she was babying me, she just always understood what I wanted to say. I’ve gotten better at getting the words out, but it’s still hard sometimes. The other Links understand, Wild. I know our situations are different, but we’re here for you. I’m here for you.” Sky finished. His final statement said as if it were a fact Hylia herself could not dispute. There was no doubt or uncertainty. ‘We’re here for you. I’m here for you.’ The words echoed in Wild’s head. Wild had thought himself weak, but Sky wasn’t weak. Sky was one of the strongest people he’s ever met and he’d only known the man for over a week. Wild’s hands released his hair slowly, coming to rest in his lap before he raised them.

‘I feel the same. I don’t even know if it’s my scars or if it was always like that.’ Wild panicked at the mention of what was before the Shrine of Resurrection, but Sky didn’t question him. ‘But the words don’t come. I can feel them, I can think them, but they don’t come out!’ Wild finished angrily, his hands flinging to his lap once more.

“It’s frustrating.” Sky stated. It wasn’t a question, nor was it pity, it was a fact they both knew. “If you want, we can work on it.” Sky offered, smiling slightly at the pure shock on WIld’s face.

“Don’t get me wrong, you don’t have to talk if you don’t want to.” Sky assured. “But Zelda and I practiced talking over the years and it helped me. Me, or any of the other Links are willing to help, Wild. It’s an option. Otherwise, none of us mind that you sign. We all have things to work around, it comes with a team.” Wild didn’t even know how to respond. Help him? Team? Those were all new to him.

‘Can I…’ Wild trailed off for a moment. Did he want that? Wild couldn’t even really imagine himself talking. What did he sound like without the claws in his throat? Perhaps Wild wanted to find out.

‘Can I think about it?’ Wild asked, forcing his hands to steady, meeting Sky’s eyes. Eyes that held no judgement or malice, just understanding.

“Of course you can!” Sky assured brightly. “Just let me know if you ever want that, or if you just never want to speak of this again. It’s completely up to you Wild.” It was up to him, not Hylia, or the King, or a destiny he never wanted, it was Wild’s choice. That felt nice.

‘Thank you.’ Wild signed simply, and they both felt the emotion behind it. A few quiet moments passed before Sky spoke up again. 

“Do you want to go back?” Sky asked. Wild bit his lip.

‘I don’t want to face them.’ Wild signed honestly.

“I’m sure the others have made sure you won’t have to deal with those idiots anymore.” Sky thought back to Wind snarling.

‘Not them. The others.’ Wild corrected before turning away. Coming back to an entire group after running away in shame sent cold waves of panic through Wild.  

“Oh… Yeah it’s scary, but after the amount of times Legend has left huffing and cursing I think you’ll be okay.” Sky laughed, feeling ten pounds lighter when he saw Wild’s shoulders shake a little with silent laughter. Wild finally stood slowly, followed by Sky. They began the short trek back to the stable, but one more question still plagued WIld’s mind no matter how much he tried to get rid of it. Wild snapped his fingers to get Sky’s attention.

“Hm?” Sky questioned from his place beside Wild.

‘Why help me? You don’t know me.’ Wild questioned shyly. 

“What do you mean? You’re a Hero of Courage.” Wild winced at that. 

‘You don’t know me.’ Wild emphasized. ‘Not well.’ Sky seemed to think for a moment. 

“That’s true.” Sky confirmed. “But one day or two months, you’re one of us. We’re a group of nine now and it wouldn’t be nine without you.” Sky stated simply, waving at the distant group waiting for them at the stable. 

A group of nine. Wild could live with that.

On this episode of: I Think I’m funny. “Four confirmed in a clipped tone. Sky admired him trying to scope out the situation, but it was obvious the hero’s patience was running short.” Cuz Four… short… anyway. 

I love Wind so much. He is ready to fight entire armies of Ganon himself to protect his siblings old or new he will square up. 

Also does this mirror my other fic “The Tavern”? Perhaps ;)

Hope you guys enjoyed!   

[anactorya]

What Doesn’t Kill You (2200 words, PG-13, hospitalization, grief/mourning, mild horror)

Written for the @sambuckylibrary Halloween bingo. Prompt: witching hour. Also on AO3.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Sam’s heard it a hundred times, even believed it a few of them.

Right now, clutching the edges of his hospital chair tight enough to leave fingernail imprints in the scratchy plastic, watching Bucky waxen and still and breathing through a tube, he’s pretty sure it’s a bunch of bullshit. Because he’s fine, got a few scrapes and bruises and a knock on the head that didn’t even give him a concussion, nowhere near death’s door, and he feels weaker and more useless than he ever has. Worn out like an old dishtowel. You could hold him up to the light and see right through him.

He keeps thinking back to Steve. All the hours Sam spent sitting at his bedside after they found him half-drowned on the bank of the Potomac, waiting for him to wake up. He held it together pretty good back then, but this is different. The doctors keep saying shit like minimal brain activity and invasive life support and limits of enhanced healing, and Sam knows what that stuff means. Bucky isn’t going to wake up.

In a way, it’s more like the day Riley died, except the whole thing’s happening in slow motion and Sam gets a front row seat to every excruciating inch of that spiral towards the ground. Another person Sam loved, gone before he ever plucked up the courage to say how he felt, because he can fall backwards out of planes and leap off buildings and go toe-to-toe with alien megalomaniacs, but when it comes to letting someone else in on his heart, he’s a fucking coward.

So, yeah. Sam’s lost people before. Riley, his parents, Nat. Steve, who never even said a real goodbye. Karli, who could’ve been good if he’d gotten through to her a little earlier. But this might be the one that finally breaks him.

A hand finds his shoulder, startling him out of his reverie. It’s Rhodes, his face set in a carefully neutral expression that makes Sam want to say something shitty just to wipe it off.

He doesn’t. Rhodes has always been good to him, better than he has to be, and the guy knows what it’s like. He lost a best friend too.

Except, no, he doesn’t know, not really. Nobody does. Sam’s never told them.

“Sam,” Rhodes says, heavily, “you’ve been here for three days, and I hate to say it, but you’re starting to smell like it.”

Sam shakes his head, breathes into his hands.

“At least take a shower, sleep in an actual bed. The doctors–”

“The doctor told me to contact his family, make arrangements,” he hears himself say. His voice is very distant, very flat. “I’m his family.”

“Pepper has people,” Rhodes offers. “If you don’t wanna deal with that stuff, you don’t have to.”

A flash of anger burns in his chest–at the way everyone’s talking about this like a done deal, like it’s already over, and at the same time, at the thought that if he has to organise a, a fucking funeral for Bucky he might want to be hands-off about it, not make sure himself that everything gets done right. It’s a tangled, inchoate mess of feeling, none of which makes it out his mouth. His hands are shaking.

Rhodes squeezes his shoulder. “Go home, Sam. Be with your family.”

He leaves, and the only sound left in the room is Bucky’s mechanical breathing. The bruises on his face have faded away, healing where the damage inside of him couldn’t and leaving him looking unfairly normal. Like a still photograph of himself, except for all the damn equipment keeping him alive.

Sam got wake up you asshole and you’re not allowed to leave me here alone out of his system days ago, and now all he does is reach for Bucky’s hand and squeeze it. Bucky doesn’t squeeze back, doesn’t react at all, not even a flutter of an eyelid, and after a moment Sam lets his hand fall back to his side.

#

Louisiana means you grow up knowing magic’s real. Sam knew it long before he ever met Wanda or Strange, or saw an alien god opening portals to another world on the TV news. It isn’t some big mystery, and it’s probably the same anyplace you can head out on the water–or up a mountain or into the deeps of a forest–and not see a living soul for hours on end. It just is. You know there are things out there, strange and old and probably best left alone, so you avoid them unless you’re desperate.

Sam’s been desperate before, or thought he was. He got halfway out here after Riley died, before he remembered he preferred physics to folklore and turned the hell around.

Tonight, he isn’t so sure.

There’s a post sticking up from the bank at the edge of the water, probably the remnant of an old dock that’s long since crumbled into the water. Some people claim it’s the signpost of a drowned crossroad, though that doesn’t make a lick of sense geographically.

Either way, what the rumours say is it’s a place to get help when all human means have failed. Come out here in the hour after midnight–the witching hour, when the veil between worlds is thinnest. Take a photograph and a drop of your blood, bury them beside the post, and something will come out of the water and help you. For a price.

Now, Sam scrapes away damp earth with his bare hands, Carlos’s borrowed boat bobbing in the water behind him. Hurried out here so fast he forgot to bring tools. Lucky Carlos left his penknife in there.

The photograph is from Torres’s Polaroid phase. Ankara, he thinks, after a mission. Bucky’s usual scowl has slipped as he crouches to pet one of the ubiquitous street cats (It doesn’t matter if he’s got fleas, Sam, they can’t bite vibranium!) and Sam’s in the foreground, smiling way brighter than he’d realised at the time.

Sam bisects it carefully with the penknife, making sure no part of Bucky is visible on the section he presses into the ground, and slips the other half into his back pocket. Then he grits his teeth and draws the blade across his palm, watches the blood spatter his sunlit face.

After that, he waits.

It’s almost peaceful out here for a while, just the insect noises of the night and the plashing of the water and the sound of his own breathing. The minutes tick down toward the end of the witching hour, and he almost convinces himself this isn’t gonna work.

And then.

It’s like the air and the silence thicken, a veil drawn between him and the rest of the world. Each breath feels a little harder, the night heat heavy on his skin and a chill somewhere beneath it. A sound reaches his ears from the edge of the water. A quiet splash, and a drag of wet fabric, and a shape resolves itself out of the darkness.

She’s like the swamp made flesh. Water-weed green and dripping from head to toe, fingers slender and reaching as cypress roots, eyes feu-follet balls of light in the mossy mass of her face.

“Oh, sweetheart.” Her voice is a wet rattle like a dying breath, the sympathy in it startlingly out-of-place. “I could feel your pain miles away.”

Sam grits his teeth and draws himself to his feet. He forces himself to look her in the eyes, but there’s a wrongness about the light that burns there that makes it an effort, keeps making him want to lower his gaze. “Can you help him?” he demands. “Bring him back?”

“Help him?” says that voice. “Or help you?” Her hand comes to rest over his heart, skinny fingers splayed, and he tries not to flinch. “He isn’t the one suffering.”

His throat feels tight. “Does it matter?”

A sludgy croak of a sound. It takes Sam a moment to realise it’s her laugh. “Maybe not.” She regards him steadily. “But you’ve survived worse than this. You’d survive it again.”

It’s the kind of statement that ought to be encouraging, but the way she says it, it’s perfectly neutral, like she’s observing that there’s rain on the way, or it’s Tuesday.

The thing is, she’s right. Sam knows she is. He pulled himself back together, piece by painful piece, after Riley died. He learned to fly solo. He rebuilt his life after the Blip and talked himself around to trusting his own judgement after Steve waltzed off to the past. Now, he’s gotten used to having Bucky at his side, in his life, watching his six in the field and teasing him over dinner, but he could learn to live without it. Fly a little more carefully, trust Torres to have his back, spend more time with Sarah and the boys and the neighbours to fill the silence. He’d be almost whole again, eventually.

But godfuckingdammit, he is sick of being strong.

“Didn’t come out here for daily affirmations,” he says. “Can you help me or not?”

She inclines her head. “You can’t claim I talked you into this.”

“So you’ll do it?” He takes a deep breath. “What’s your price?”

She shrugs, trailing a hand down his arm and crouching to dig into the ground where he buried his photograph. It’s damp and dirt-stained when she unearths it, but she smiles anyway. “You’ll owe me. That’s all.”

“Owe you what?” But even as he asks, he knows the answer doesn’t matter. He’ll promise anything if it means a do-over, a chance to get it right this time, say all the things he should’ve said to Riley way back when, the things he should’ve said to Bucky months ago.

“I’ll know when I need it.” She tucks Sam’s photograph away somewhere in the folds of her garment. “Seal it with a kiss.”

Her mouth tastes like swamp water, brackish and bitter. Sam swallows down bile. And at the same time, he feels a creeping sensation like the water itself wrapping around him, twining roots around his heart, pulling him under like a gator’s death roll. He fights for breath, lungs filling up with it, tears springing to his eyes, darkness crowding his vision.

As abruptly as it crept up on him, it’s gone. He sucks in a huge breath, bending over, hands on his thighs, and when he comes back to himself, she’s gone.

#

By the time he gets back to town, he has three missed calls. One from the hospital, one from Rhodes, and one from–

His heart leaps in his chest. He’s on a plane to DC within the hour.

At the specialist treatment facility, nobody stops him to ask for ID or what he’s doing here. He finds Bucky sitting up in bed, drinking orange juice through a straw and looking bitchy about it. His face lights up like Christmas when Sam walks in, that wide unashamed smile, and Sam aches with realising how much he’s missed it.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t here,” he says.

Bucky shakes his head. “Rhodes told me the docs thought I was a goner,” he says. “Sent you home to plan my funeral. Don’t know that I could’ve stood being here, either.”

Sam exhales dizzily. “Yeah, well. Shoulda known better with your stubborn old ass. What’d you do, annoy the shit out of the Grim Reaper until he got sick of you?”

“Something like that. Guess I gotta thank that shitty knock-off serum for something, huh.” There’s an edge to his voice, like always when this stuff comes up, and Sam gets it, he does. Owing your life to something you hate is complicated.

He tries not to think about how much more complicated it would be if Bucky knew the truth.

“Hey,” he says instead, “don’t think you get to make a habit of this.” He tries to sound stern, but the tears pricking at his eyes make it hard. “Three days sitting on the crappy plastic chairs they got in here, I thought my ass was gonna fall off.”

Bucky smiles up at him, crooked, a little looser. “Now that’d be a real tragedy.”

Sam’s breath catches in his throat, heartbeat skittering. But shit, if he’s in the hole to some creepy-ass swamp goddess for who knows what kind of favour, or maybe his immortal soul, he’s damn well gonna make it count.

So he ignores the plastic chair and perches on the edge of the mattress, close enough to smell antiseptic and orange juice and feel Bucky’s warmth through his hospital gown.

(Roots wrapped around his heart, foul water on the back of his tongue, shapes moving in the depths.)

San leans in, telegraphing his intent, Bucky’s eyes fastened on his mouth. Presses their lips together, soft.

“About damn time.” Bucky sighs into the kiss, resting his forehead against Sam’s; and after a moment, Sam tastes only oranges.