#-eyes of a religion... well but how far does the religion go. how can it be perceived. ''trying very hard to be effortless''... ponder that
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spotsupstuff · 1 year ago
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staring at "slave of caper of euros' houses" from the comic dialogue. have i missed some Fun Worldbuilding (fun as in "oh god this sucks for everyone involved" i mean)
hmm... only maybe some subtle bg one! i haven't really talked about it specifically- but basically the lower circles are... if they are within facilities of some Iterator they essentially belong to the Houses. it's supposed to be the same relationship like between a citizen and the politicians of country, but the thing is that the lower circles have no say in what happens in the higher circles including voting and other important decision making
they are an afterthought in that kind of stuff. they are talked about like a piece of machinery- something the Houses control and own. a matter of course. "of course the lower circles are going to be there and meet our demands of resources! they have no other choice! this is where they belong." all the while they have to bear the rain and depending on the Iterator colony's Houses, they might get very little funding for equipment, towns upkeep n so on. they can't really Get out of it, because these facilities are where the civilization is and the world out there is a dangerous one. "what if my mask breaks and i will die out there repeatedly? i don't want to be a prey. i want to live. i want to have a purpose. that's *here.*"
it's like... a very subtle slavery, maybe. a kind of "dancing on the edge of laws and moral obligations" case. not Every place is that bad, including Ales, but at some point in her original life Sparrows breaks out of her self-inflicted vision of "what i went through as a child was okay" because she just won't be able to hold on to that lie anymore (faced with the comfort and safety as Euros' citizen every day) and she gets very angry about it and starts defining the lower circle life as slavery
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cameronspecial · 10 months ago
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Let Me Write About You, Angel
Pairing: Frat!Rafe Cameron x Reader
Warnings: Mentions of Writing About Their Sex Life
Pronouns: She/Her
Word Count: 0.8K
Summary: Rafe and Y/N finally get to take a class together, but maybe she didn't choose the right class to share with him.
Masterlist
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Y/N knew she shouldn’t have let Rafe take an elective with her. She should’ve called it fate when they didn’t get into the same class during the fall semester, but Rafe was very determined to be in the same class as her. She honestly does love being able to spend time with him during class; it’s just that maybe a creative writing class isn’t the best for both of them. Rafe respects her boundaries during class, letting her focus on taking notes and listening to the professor, so that isn’t the problem. No, the problem is that Rafe hates creative writing as a whole. He isn’t great with words and the only topic he wants to write about is his angel. So far he is skating by with his assignments; however, he needs to do decent on his final portfolio to pass the class. Y/N makes it her mission to make sure her boyfriend passes and she is starting to regret it. For the past assignments, she didn’t have time to go over his work before he submitted it, so she was unaware of the recurring theme in all of his work. 
Rafe’s eyes bore into her as she read over his work, anxious for what she had to say. He doesn’t care about passing. If he doesn’t pass, he can always let his dad’s money pass hands to change that F into a B. Except this is a little different, Y/N wants him to do well so he wants to do well. Y/N glances over each word and heat starts to build inside of her heart. 
I don’t believe in religion, 
yet I do believe in Angels. 
Because I found mine, 
And she is absolutely divine. 
I live for her smile.
She makes my life worthwhile. 
She stole my heart
Because she is a work of art. 
His poem has no structure and isn’t long enough per the assignment requirements. It does rhyme, yet she has to admit it isn’t very good. She is sweetened up by the fact that he chose her as his subject. As she reads the rest of his pieces, she notices how she is his only subject. She finally reads the last piece and looks up at him with a soft smile. “You wrote about me,” she states, flipping through the pages. He nods, “Yeah, you are my muse, Angel. Do you like it?” “It’s really sweet, Rafe. I just don’t know how I feel knowing that you wrote about our sex life for your short story and that our professor is going to mark this,” she explains. He flashes a proud smile, “Yeah, I think I really captured your beauty in that one. I was thinking about reading that one during our last class when we can share our work. Show that guy, who sits in front of us who keeps looking back at you, just how satisfied you are with me.” Y/N’s eyes widen to saucers and she shakes her head. “Rafe, please don’t read this in class. In fact, I think we need to work on some of these pieces because you can’t only write about me,” she begs, turning the stack of papers so he can read her feedback. He frowns, “Come on let me write about you, Angel.” 
“You can, but if you want to pass, you have to choose three other topics to talk about. You can choose one piece to keep about me.”
“But I only want to write about you. Plus, I can’t choose because they all have to do with you so I love them all.”
“I know. Maybe we can alter the topic so it is still about me but not as obvious. My favourite is this sudden fiction. Your stream of consciousness is really good and you bring the scene to life with the senses. So let's see what you can write about for your other pieces.”
Rafe nods at his girlfriend’s suggestion. His heart flutters at the thought that she likes one of his works. He takes a second to seriously consider what she says and a light bulb goes off. “How about for the poem, I write about the future family that we can have?” he considers, already writing down the lines he is thinking of. She reads over what he writes and a smile blooms across her face. “That is a great idea. Now, we just need to look at two other topics.” 
———
Y/N is studying in the library when Rafe comes rushing to her with his phone in his hand. “Angel, Angel. Look what I got on my portfolio,” he announces. His phone shoots before her eyes and she has to hold his hand to keep it steady. Y/N looks at the screen, reading the B- on display. She claps her hand in celebration and then wraps her arms around his neck. “This is amazing, Rafe. I am so proud of you,” she kisses his cheek. He revels in her pride, “It wasn’t all me, Angel. I have you and your brilliant brain to thank for the help. You make me smarter every single day.” Rafe couldn’t feel more lucky to have such an amazing girlfriend, who helps him grow as a person and succeed.
Taglist: @winterrrnight @loves0phelia @thelomlisrafecameron @wickedlovely121 @queen-shadow22 @victory-in-the-llama @drewsmusee @starkowswife
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honeyhoshi · 9 months ago
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deathless death
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summary: Wonwoo isn’t religious. But he knows other ways to pray and other gods to revere. 
this is a part of the playlist universe
genre: pwanp - porn with absolutely no plot
wordcount: 4,317
pairing: wonwoo x afab!reader x gyuhan
warnings: foursome, bi mingyu, switch mingyu, bi jeonghan, switch jeonghan, voyeur/cuck wonwoo (but not really), soft dom wonwoo, afab reader, mentions of female anatomy, oral (f & m receiving), breast play, spit kink (bec i wrote it), creampie (again bec i wrote it), use of religious terminology and imagery, slight bulge kink, edging, squirting, finger sucking, THEY ARE IN LOVE!!!!
author's notes: It’s not a lie when I say there’s no plot in this but it is part of a bigger universe which I intend to expand later on. For now, no thoughts, just vibes with this one. Enjoy!
Knows everybody’s disapproval I should’ve worshiped her sooner
She is a sinner in the eyes of the world, but to Wonwoo she is a goddess and who is he to offer her anything less than what she wants and deserves.
Wonwoo gives her what she wants when she wants it and how she wants it, indulges her and spoils her. How can he deny her of anything when she grants Wonwoo salvation every time she says his name?
He is powerless as she whispers her request to him, the dirty, filthy words dripping with sin. Wonwoo is weak in her hands but he is willing to grant her wish and takes comfort in her conditions.
To keep the goddess by my side She demands a sacrifice
So Wonwoo watches with eyes glazed over as his girl lays in bed unclothed, fingers of one hand threaded through Jeonghan’s hair as he presses kisses onto her stomach, going down, down, down and bites and sucks on her thighs. He makes no move to stop them but his fingers twitch as he watches her mouth part in a silent scream, her eyes shut in the feeling of bliss at Jeonghan’s descent.
Wonwoo is silent as her breath hitches when Mingyu fondles her chest, sucking one nipple between his lips, his thumb rolling the other in time with the movements of his mouth. He laves his tongue on her bud before his eyes flicker to her face. With a wicked smile, he bites lightly and a whimper escapes her mouth. Trying to keep himself grounded, Wonwoo tries to lean back on the armchair. The Little space he adds between the obscenity before him and himself does little to quell the simmering heat in his blood.
He doesn’t know how Jeonghan or Mingyu feel but he knows how she feels. She feels euphoric. She feels bliss. She feels salvation. And that is what this is. It is salvation in its purest form, devoid of religion or rules or statutes. It is the salvation he has pledged himself to—to give himself willingly to her and she to him.
The beads of sweat on her forehead and the way her brows furrow pulls Wonwoo’s focus. She is lost in the feeling but she is far from through. She wraps her slender fingers around Mingyu’s length dragging her fingers down his abdomen lazily as she blinks up at Mingyu, finally gaining some focus back. Her eyes speak volumes but only Wonwoo is well versed in her to easily decipher how the gears in her mind turn. There’s theology in every gasp and every whimper, the rolls of eyes and heaviness of lids.
This was a unique request from her. Its a topic that’s never been brought up—something they’ve never considered but the way her body moves between Mingyu and Jeonghan’s lithe bodies seems almost choreographed. She knows how to play the two men like she was playing an instrument, knowing which strings to pluck, when to get the most beautiful harmonies, and Wonwoo has never heard a symphony more beautiful than this
The three of them shift and Wonwoo almost wants to laugh. Both Mingyu and Jeonghan position themselves off the bed. Mingyu stands with a clumsiness he’s known for, the weakness in his knees at their actions is an effect she has on men that Wonwoo is intimate with. Mingyu’s eyes catch Jeonghan’s, his hand pumping his length as Jeonghan kneels on the floor opposite him. Before them a feast is being laid on a king-sized bed with mussed sheets. She moves to lay between them, on her back, and getting comfortable. She locks eyes with Jeonghan and pulls him in with a crook of her middle finger and spreads her legs to present herself to him.
Jeonghan chuckles at the playfulness and recognition that he’s being played like a fiddle. Whatever his usual position and dynamic is in another’s bed is overruled in here. She will call the shots tonight. With his own lascivious gaze, he relinquishes control to her and moves to his position, hooking her legs over his shapely shoulders and spreads them wider.
“Fuck.” It slips out like an accident, like he didn’t mean to break the silence but can’t help himself as her beautiful cunt bares itself to him. Still wet from when he first tasted her just minutes prior, even her thighs are wet. He licks broad stripes at the wetness on both her thighs, not wanting any of her essence going to waste. She’s mouthwatering and he uses that to make her even wetter, quickly collecting it on his tongue and harshly spitting on her pussy.
She squeals at the harsh and warm contact but can barely get the laugh stuck in her throat out as Jeonghan dives into her cunt to spread the spit from her slit up to her clit. A wicked smile spreads on her lips as Jeonghan finally makes good on his reputation with his tongue. When he finally sinks his tongue into her hole, Wonwoo can see how she relaxes. Finally, she moves to lay back down, leaning back on her elbows and her mouth ajar at the pleasure stemming from her center.
The room sounds wet and disgusting with panting to break the sounds of tongue and spit and cunt.
Wonwoo eyes trail up the length of his girl’s body, starting from her curling toes and delicate ankles in the air and her plush thighs caging Jeonghan’s face. The heaviness in her breathing is causing her to suck in her stomach and he longs to trace her ribs and roughly grasp her tits, thinking they must be cool to the touch with no one fondling him. He thinks that’s where he would be better at Jeonghan.
He would have praised her everywhere at every given moment.
As his gaze moves up to her face, he starts when he catches her eye. She’s been watching him watch her. She bites her lip suddenly at a particularly harsh suck from Jeonghan. She has just enough time to send him a wink before she lays herself down on her back and looks up. Wonwoo can only smirk because he knows what she means. Its a reminder. A reminder of this evening’s conditions and that the night is young and that there is so so much left to be done.
What you got in the stable We’ve a lot of starving faithful
Wonwoo’s will remains strong as he keeps his eyes locked with her body. Even when she moves her hands to grasp her breath and to pinch and twist and pull at her own nipples, he doesn’t look away. When she lays her head back letting it fall off the bed, she licks her lips and opens them wide, Wonwoo does the opposite and grits his teeth. She sticks out her tongue in invitation at Mingyu who has been quiet and good and reverent, waiting for his turn. Wonwoo has to bite his tongue when Mingyu finally grips onto her jaw, fingers slipping onto the back of her head and tangling with her. It's to keep her mouth open and wide as he finally sinks his cock into her throat.
The image playing before Wonwoo is beautiful, he thinks. The way Mingyu’s eyes have slipped closed as he fucks into the tight wet heat of her mouth beautiful. Her lips wrapped around him tightly and how she sucks down on his cock in time with his shallow thrusts, is beautiful. The way Jeonghan’s tongue slides against her folds and dips into her center, causing her eyes to flutter, is beautiful. Wonwoo finds beauty etched into her face even when her hair is mussed, her hips are bruised from another’s hands, and her lips are swollen from sucking someone else’s cock.
Beautiful.
She is an expert lover and is eager to please as she lets Mingyu’s impressive length fuck her throat, relaxing her throat to take him as far as she can. Mingyu hisses as her lips stretch over his length and feels her throat constrict around him. The loud groan Mingyu lets out only spurs her on even when he pulls out to catch his breath and grip at the base of his cock. Wonwoo gets it. He doesn’t want this to end so soon.
The loss of Mingyu’s cock upsets her, empty feeling in her mouth as she pulls away only to take him back into her mouth again, slowly this time around. She is patient as she sucks lightly on the delicate head of Mingyu’s cock, digging her tongue into the slit for good measure. She opens her mouth wide again in invitation. As Mingyu fucks his cock back into her mouth, she hollows her cheeks and moans lowly. Wonwoo knows just the look of it is driving Mingyu wild, the bulge in her throat hard to miss. She moves quicker, now, sucking faster, a hand above and behind her to pull Mingyu even closer, knowing that Mingyu is not too far from release. He’s concentrated, focused on finally coming and he pulls of off her to jerk himself off with long thick fingers wrapped around his cock. Her lips press kisses to the skin of his thighs,  his stomach, whatever she can reach in her position. She eyes the head of his cock and quickly laps up the drop of precome from Mingyu’s slit and turns to look back over to Wonwoo with a cheeky glint in her eye.
“Mingyu,” she says, voice sultry and smooth, “come down my throat.”
Her every request is a command and every command must be followed. She quickly takes Mingyu back into her mouth, and Wonwoo knows it’s too much for Mingyu. He cries out and spills into her mouth as she eagerly swallows and sucks around him. Wonwoo’s fists are clenched so hard as he watches the few drops of come that collect around the side of her mouth. She continues to suck even as Mingyu’s shoulders start to sag and the muscle on her lower stomach starts to twitch in response to his sensitivity. It’s just as Mingyu pulls away, almost tripping over himself backwards, and she could even make a move to clean off the come on her lips, her face crumples in pleasure.
All this time Jeonghan’s been patiently lapping at her center, digging his tongue into her hole and sucking on her clit.
Her self-control is commendable as she sits herself up and pulls Jeonghan off of her even when she’s so close to coming. Jeonghan pushes her almost roughly onto the bed with her head on the pillows and Wonwoo feels himself almost standing. Jeonghand presses kisses down the length of her body, from her neck to the valley between her breasts. Jeonghan is a thorough lover, always biting too hard or fucking too quickly, but she loves it almost when fucking is slow and almost torturous. Jeonghan nips and licks at her stomach as his hands knead at her chest roughly. He pinches at her nipples and smiles as she squeals. He looks up and behind himself at Mingyu expectantly, and Mingyu, without missing a beat, swoops down to press a kiss to Jeonghan’s lips.
Wonwoo can see the jealousy in her eyes as she watches the exchange before her. She wants the taste of someone’s tongue on her lips but she tries to tame the hunger. She whimpers, wanting to avert the attention back to her body and both Jeonghan and Mingyu pull away with a small smile on their faces as Jeonghan continues to move down her body.
Jeonghan nudges her to spread her legs and she obeys with a knowing smirk. She bites down on her lower lip and Jeonghan settles in between her legs. He uses two fingers to spread her folds and Wonwoo can see how wet she is from Jeonghan’s prolonged torture. She loves it though. She loves getting close to release and falling just short of it, having to build up to it all over again. She says it makes the orgasm just so much better. It doesn’t take much for Jeonghan to get her thrashing on the bed. He licks broad stripes against the length of her center and sucks harshly on her abused clit. The way he dips his tongue into her with his thumb rubbing tight circles against her nub has tears in her eyes.
When Jeonghan slips two long fingers into her curling them upwards and scissoring them inside her she whimpers out his name like a prayer. It's when Jeonghan slips in a third finger and roughly curls them inside of her repeatedly that she allows herself to drown in her first release. The stretch feels delicious and she can hardly stop herself from spilling onto Jeonghan’s fingers. Wonwoo’s ears perk up as her moans grow erratic and she calls out a name.
“Wonwoo!”
Wonwoo stands from his seat across the room with a determined look on his face. All night he’s been patient. All night he’s had to watch her writhe in pleasure without making a move, without saying a word. Now it was his turn.
That looks tasty That looks plenty This is hungry work
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Wonwoo has tunnel vision when he looks at her. The only thing clear is her and everything else can fade away. She is the only thing he sees. He pays no mind to Mingyu breathing heavily beside her, or Jeonghan who is pressing kisses down her thighs. All he can see is his girl biting down on her lip and the fire that's dancing in her eyes. She's breathing hard and heavy and there is nothing Wonwoo wants more than to feel her breath on his lips. 
Wonwoo stands at the foot of the bed and pulls his shirt off in one smooth move. Her eyes are clouded but as he moves to unbuckle his belt, she calls out to him to stop. 
"I want to do it," she says and Jeonghan finally releases her from his grasp and lays back on the pillows to wrap a hand around his weeping cock.  
She on the other hand moves sluggishly towards Wonwoo, but he loves the way she looks. Languid, relaxed, worshiped. 
She kneels in front of Wonwoo, the height of the bed makes it perfect for her to look into his eyes as she reaches down to unbutton his jeans. Her fingers move deftly and Wonwoo pushes them down the rest of the way.
It's quiet in the room—no one dares to make a sound as she and Wonwoo are eye to eye. The air around them is static and it's almost solemn how the two look at each other. This wasn't sex, and this was most definitely not just fucking. This is an offering, a celebration, a sacrament only she and Wonwoo would ever understand. Mingyu and Jeonghan were mere bystanders, only hoping to feel a semblance of elation that she and Wonwoo share with one another. 
For the first time that night their lips meet and Wonwoo can finally breathe. There is no second guessing, no hesitation or shyness. There is only love and adoration. Wonwoo is a starving man and only her kisses could feed him, nourish him, and bring him back to health. This was one of this evening's conditions. Neither Jeonghan nor Mingyu could kiss her—only Wonwoo could claim her lips, breathe in her air, and taste her tongue in his mouth. 
She pulls away only to press more kisses against his face, down to his neck to lick hot stripes against his skin. She latches onto his collarbones, sucking and biting, determined to make her mark. She does the same to the defined muscle of his chest and moves even further down to finally wrap her lips around his cock. 
On any other day Wonwoo would let her take her sweet time sucking on his cock, until he cries out and spills all over her face, but today he has no patience for such pageantry. He is starved and he has been patient for far too long. He allows her to sink down on him one more time, feeling the tight, wet heat of her throat before he pulls on her hair and meets her eyes. 
They share another heated kiss before Wonwoo pulls away to roughly push her back onto the bed that is finally vacated. She smirks at his rough handling but the way she spreads her legs is an invitation. She wants this just as much as he does. 
Wonwoo presses kisses onto her feet and up her calves. He nips and licks at the meat of her thighs and she holds her breath, praying for him to press a kiss where she wants him most but he smirks at her knowingly. He leaves her core untouched and opts to suck a bruise on her hip, the first of many she will be getting tonight.  
She holds Wonwoo's gaze as he dips his tongue into the hollow of her belly button. Wonwoo can feel her skin humming under his lips. She threads her fingers through his thick black hair and tugs impatiently. Wonwoo smiles against her skin as he wraps one of her legs around his hip. He moves quickly and captures her lips again in a heated kiss, cradling her face in his large hands. She rolls her hips pathetically, trying to ease the need for friction, moaning desperately. Her hands grip onto Wonwoo's broad shoulders for dear life and Wonwoo hisses as she digs her nails into his skin, littering his skin with small crescents. 
When Wonwoo pulls away he runs his thumb across her cheek and looks into her eyes. Her eyes are glistening with something secret that only Wonwoo can read. They read vulnerability, hunger, trust, and above all things, love. He smirks down at her before he presses his thumb against her plump lower lip, opening her mouth.
"Open up, baby girl," he says as her mouth opens up and her tongue flicks to lick at Wonwoo's thumb, "Now, suck." 
Both her hands fly up to hold onto Wonwoo's larger hand and bring two of his fingers up to her mouth. She presses her tongue flat against the digits in her mouth and sucks earnestly. Wonwoo smirks, pleased with her compliance. His eyes leave her for a moment to glimpse at Jeonghan and Mingyu who are locked in a deep kiss with Mingyu pumping steadily at Jeonghan's cock. 
His eyes go back to his girl as he grinds down to feel how wet she is on his cock. She groans around his fingers at the feeling of how heavy Wonwoo's cock feels against her. 
"Patience, baby," Wonwoo whispers as his head dips down to lick a broad stripe against one of her nipples, "I want to worship you." 
He finally pulls his fingers from her mouth with praise and presses his fingers against her center. He slips both fingers into her easily with how wet she is and he sucks on a nipple. At first his slender fingers move slowly, easing into her but he speeds up until his pace is almost punishing. 
"Wonwoo, please!" She yells out, eyes clamped shut. 
Wonwoo releases her nipple from his mouth to send her a lopsided smile, "Please what, baby? Tell me what you want, sweetheart," He says before taking her nipple back to his mouth. 
She only groans in frustration and that isn't good enough for Wonwoo.
"I don't know how your wicked little mind managed to think this up," Wonwoo whispers as he adds another finger into her, "Are you having fun? Is it all you ever wanted?" 
He's taunting her, she knows it. He wants her to know, to feel even just a fraction of the agony he felt as he watched her being pleasured by hands and mouths that aren't his. 
"Is Jeonghan's mouth as good as mine? Huh, baby? Did you like sucking Mingyu's cock? Did his cock fuck your throat as well as mine does?" 
She can barely get anything more than a whimper out of her mouth now that Wonwoo is rubbing tight circles against her clit. 
"Not too mouthy now, are we?" Wonwoo smirks, watching as a single tear falls from her eye. "Just tell me, baby. Tell me what you want and I'll give it to you." 
She groans in frustration, "You. Wonwoo, I want you." 
"What do you want me to do, baby?" He asks, teeth grazing her collarbone, tongue laving at her flesh. 
"Wonwoo, please," she whimpers, unable to get the worlds out of her mouth, "Please f-fuck me." 
Wonwoo loves when she gets impatient, nearly crying in frustration, because he knows it'll feel so much better when he finally fucks her. 
"My pleasure," he says as he slips his fingers from her to pinch her clit between his fingers while his teeth clamp down on her nipple. 
She groans at the sensations flooding her body but screams when Wonwoo finally pushes into her. 
Offer me that deathless death  Good god, let me give you my life 
There is something about the way she and Wonwoo move that's different. There's something in the way her mouth falls open and in the way Wonwoo mouths at her jaw, pressing open mouthed kisses on her damp skin. Wonwoo's hips move languidly, like they have all the time in the world, and it seems like they do.
It is as if the whole world has stood still to pay respect to such a ritual—two godly creatures becoming one to shower praise onto each other. 
This is the way it always was with him and her. She begs for him to take her, like a woman starved, someone lowly praying to the divinity for sanctification, as if she were the one in need of salvation. In reality it is Wonwoo who is the sinner. It is Wonwoo who falls to his knees for her, the one to give offering to such a high being. He is the one who needs to be cleansed, he is the one in need of salvation. 
So he offers her his body, his heart, his soul. And she consumes him whole. 
Wonwoo continues to move at a leisurely pace, wanting to feel how she tightens around him whenever he pushes into her so slowly. It's beautiful, the way her face crumples up when his pace is this gentle. It is a far cry from the way he touched her earlier. But this is all part of the plan, the ritual. 
Her leg around his hip tightens around him, a silent plea for him to move faster, take her to the edge quicker, fuck her, praise her, love her harder. 
Wonwoo smirks and quirks his eyebrow at her before he moves to adjust her leg, lifting it so it's placed comfortably on his shoulder. The position allows for him to move deeper, quicker, rougher. 
Her eyes squeeze shut as Wonwoo slides in deeper, pressing into that spot that drives her crazy just right. She can't form any coherent thoughts, her brain is a jumbled mess. She can barely remember the events of the evening with only the ghost of Jeonghan's tongue on her body and Mingyu's cock down her throat.
She opens her eyes to see Wonwoo smiling down at how and she can't help but return the small gesture. Yes, she thinks, this beautiful, amazing, gifted man is mine and I am so wholly his. 
And this is how they dance, how they love, how they topple over the edge. This is how the world stops and listens to the ragged breaths and the whispered confessions. 
In the madness and soil of that sad earthly scene
Only then I am human Only then I am clean
Wonwoo removes his lips from her neck to press kisses up to her ear. He bites lightly at the lobe of her ear before he slows the movements of his hips. 
"I want you to come now," Wonwoo says, teeth still pressing down on her lobe. 
"Make it worth my time," she laughs breathlessly. 
Wonwoo takes it as a challenge. He quickens his movements, pounding into her as quickly as his body lets him, and she quivers around him, her body arching off the bed. His pace is punishing, but this is exactly what she wants—what she needs. 
Wonwoo moves his arms from beside her head to grab onto her hands, bringing them above her. Their fingers are intertwined, a show of intimacy despite their carnal act. 
Wonwoo sucks a deep purple bruise on her neck as his hips continue to move, a little sloppier now that he's nearing his end. She's about to come too. Wonwoo can tell by the way her moans hitch, how her breathing is more shallow, and how her eyes are screwed shut. 
“Open up, love.”
Like clockwork, her jaw falls slack and her eyes weakly open to gaze up at him. Pleading. He wants this–Wonwoo wants this forever. All it takes is for Wonwoo to harshly spit in her mouth and finally spill all of his come into her cunt for her to finish and cry out his name.
Her breathing is ragged and her skin is damp, but Wonwoo thinks she looks vibrant. He pays no mind to Mingyu and Jeonghan who are kissing on the bed, both sated and have sleep heavy on their eyelids. Wonwoo untangles one of his hands from hers to brush her hair away from her face, leaning down to kiss her forehead. 
Wonwoo may very well be condemned to hell because he’s committed countless sins and cares not to seek forgiveness. He pays it no mind. Not when there are better ways to pray, more important things to revere, and beings far more perfect to praise.
-`✮´- if you've come this far, thank you. this is an older work of mine that I revisited after YEARS and felt would work well with these members. let me know what you think!!
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kikyan · 11 months ago
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Hellfire
Cw: Yandere content means Yandere content y’all, dub-con, stalking, obsessive behavior, abuse of power, Father/Priest! Rollo (AS IN PRIEST NOT INCEST), masturbation, body worship, oral (GN! Reader receiving), fingering, riding, religious themes, etc
Fandom: Twisted Wonderland 
Pairing: Rollo x GN! Reader 
Words: 9.5K 
A/N: Everyone look at your calendars and do you see how in reality it isn’t a New Year but rather Halloween and this Halloween special is coming out on the day it was meant to and not almost 3 months later? Fantastic, moving on. . .enjoy :)) 
A/N2: I want to preface this by saying that this fic does have religion/religious themes. This is not an accurate portrayal either, so please do not come for me-! I did grow up catholic but in my teen years became a full atheist so anything said in this fic is me recalling my childhood. Also, I googled bible verses because I don’t remember any and they were all in Spanish so, yeah. . .enjoy! :))
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The bells rang throughout Fleur City, signaling the start of Sunday mass. The crowd gathered, rushing to find any available seats to sit down on. Those unfortunate would have to stand, as they did not dare miss the mass. Father Rollo was an exceptional man, his voice and words rang throughout the church and captivated everyone who was blessed to be in his presence. He handled himself professionally, standing with an upright posture and his head was always looking ahead. He was truly a man befitting to be god's messenger. Fleur City was fortunate to have Father Rollo, he was a man adored by his people and [Reader] was no different. They were locked on Father Rollo who strutted with confidence,
 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you” 
His eyes locked with [Reader]. They broke away from his eyes but could still feel his piercing eyes on them. 
“I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 
Cheers erupted from within the church the moment he finished his sentence. Mass was shortly concluded after the church staff asked for donations. Plenty of people offered whatever they could spare, but it was appreciated. The church was emptying but a few others stayed behind to have a few words with Father Rollo. [Reader] stayed seated but looked over at Father Rollo from the corner of their eye. He was attending to the people and their needs, he truly was a virtuous man. They averted their gaze when they saw Father Rollo turn to them. He bid goodbye to the troubled crowd. His heeled shoes echoed loudly through the emptying church, stopping in front of [Reader]. 
“[Reader], good morning. How have you been?” 
“Oh. . good morning, Father Rollo. I’ve been well, how about you?” 
“It has been a pleasant morning so far and I can only pray that it shall remain that way. Though I will say, it’s certainly comforting knowing you’re here. I did not see you anywhere last week.” 
“R-Right. . .my apologies. It certainly wasn’t my intention to miss last week’s mass, but I’m afraid I did end up catching a cold. It has since passed and I feel quite better.” 
“ You ought to take care of yourself, [Reader]. It would be a shame if something terrible happened to you. You are, after all, our number one devotee here at the Church. It would be rather quiet and lonely if you were to go.” 
“Ha ha, it was only a cold Father Rollo, not the plague. I assure you, I am fine. Besides, I’m pretty strong enough to handle an illness.” 
[Reader] returned a smile to Rollo, whose face remained expressionless, but his eyebrows furrowed upwards in un-amusement.  
“That you are, you have God’s protection as one of his children. Alas, I must be off. Till next we meet, [Reader].” 
Rollo turned around and left the main hall, leaving [Reader] alone. It was only for a split second, but he turned around to gaze at them again. 
[Reader] was in love with Rollo. Their greatest sin that would be known to the dead once they passed. They remember their first meeting, plain as day, unlike that stormy night where this story takes place. 
There was a storm and it was pouring. The kind that people were warned to stay indoors because of the severity, yet here [Reader] was running to the middle of the town where the church lay. Their face was coated in rainwater which made it almost impossible to keep their eyes open, they were struggling to breathe, and the cold that accompanied the storm did little to help. They were staggering over to the Church. 
“[READER!] GET BACK HERE NOW AND I MIGHT FORGIVE YOU!” 
Panic rose and they didn’t dare look back, for if they did, surely it would be their last. They didn’t dare scream for help, because they knew their cries would be drowned by the storm. They finally made it to the center, running up the stairs of the cathedral, and lunged to the door. No surprise that it was locked. 
“[READER]! STOP!”
“L-LEAVE ME ALONE! SANCTUARY, PLEASE GIVE ME SANCTUARY!” 
[Reader] pleaded and began to hit the doors with all their might. The person who was no doubt chasing after them continued their pursuit. They were approaching the steps and soon, close enough to reach out to [Reader]. Just in the nick of time, the door opened enough for [Reader] to throw themselves inside. They landed on the cold stone floors and used whatever strength they had to scramble away from the door. They looked up to see a skinny man with a pale face, green-blue eyes, dark bags under his eyes, and silver hair behind the door. He was adorned in an ankle-long robe and wore black-heeled loafers. His outfit certainly was nothing too fancy, then again it was the middle of the night. 
“S-Sanctuary! P-please, give me sanctuary!” 
“What seems to be the matter-!?” 
The man turned to them but was cut from the person chasing after [Reader]. 
“[Reader]! C’mere, now.” 
The anger in his voice disappeared but there was sternness laced in his request. The silver-haired man turned to the other person. The storm showered them, and the mud that they tracked in did not go unnoticed by the silver-haired man. 
“Forgive me. My name is Rollo Flamme, I am one of the priests here. May I ask what seems to be the issue? I certainly did not expect there to be anyone leisuring out in the streets with the storm raging outside.” 
The silver-haired man, now named ‘Rollo’, asked. Rollo turned to the person outside with an unamused expression. 
“Father Rollo, pardon the intrusion. You see, that person over there is named [Reader], they're my partner. My partner also suffers from an unstable state of mind. It would be best if we returned-!?” 
“Father Rollo, is everything alright?” 
They all turned to look at an elderly woman who no doubt worked for the church. Rollo shook his head and the woman took it as a sign to approach the door. 
“Everything is alright here, there is no need for the both of you to concern yourselves over our issues. Me and [Reader] would be taking our leave-!?” 
“I think not. It would be against everything we stand for if we turned away someone who came to this holy place and asked for sanctuary. I apologize, but I’ll be asking for you to leave. Madam, take this one,” 
Rollo turned to face [Reader], 
“This one inside. Run them a warm bath and please get them a fresh set of clothes. As for you, sir. . please leave.” 
[Reader’s] partner scoffed and stepped forward, 
“I wouldn’t recommend that.” 
He stopped after Rollo’s warning. Soon, others started to arrive within the church, including the guards. [Reader’s] partner glared at Rollo but decided against their actions. They just scoffed and went outside. The church’s door was shut and locked following his departure. 
[Reader] had been sitting on the floor, trying to steady their breathing. Rollo walked over to them and helped them off their feet. 
“You’re safe here in the house of God, he cannot hurt you any longer.” 
Rollo then walked away, moving people to their station leaving [Reader] alone with the Madam. 
“Come child, let’s get you out of those freezing clothes and into a warm bath.” 
That was the first time they met Rollo. 
Several weeks later, [Reader] was still within the church and assisting in any way they could. They would sometimes join the community in cleaning the church, making meals to provide during the holidays, and so forth. They were currently helping the volunteers make bread until Rollo arrived in the kitchen. 
“Good morning, Father Rollo! How may we assist you?” 
The elderly woman asked Rollo, who turned to face her. 
“Good morning, Madam. I see you’re all hard at work assisting the church so I won’t take up too much of your time. May I speak with [Reader]?” 
At the mention of their name, [Reader] perked up. The Madam turned to them and asked, 
“Of course, is that alright?” 
[Reader] nodded, dropping their task and washing their hands. They turned to look at Rollo who nodded, 
“This way, please.” 
Rollo led the way to his office and closed the door once they were both inside. He turned to them and offered the chair across from his. 
“Sit, please. Good morning, [Reader]. How are you this morning?” 
“Father Rollo. . .great. This morning has been great so far, busy but no complaints from me yet! How about yours?” 
“Fine, busy as well but such is life as God’s servant. Now, I wanted to discuss some things with you. The man that pursued you when you arrived at our doorsteps, I presume you would be content knowing that he has since left the town. He is no longer residing in Fleur City.” 
[Reader] let out a sigh of relief, since the day they arrived at the steps of the cathedral they have been residing within it. All housing was provided by the church as well as their meals. They weren’t expected to assist with the chores at the church, but they felt it was the least they could do. They would leave to go into town occasionally but always went with a guide or a guard in case anything happened. Rollo had made arrangements for them to avoid any further issues. They weren’t aware that their partner who had tormented them relentlessly had left the city or had any plans to. 
“Thank you. . . Father Rollo. I appreciate you informing me.” 
“ Of course, now that he has permanently left Fleur City we can arrange to get you a small place within the city. Don’t worry, if you still wish to assist the Church it will be nearby and the place will be within the guard's post. The area will be carefully monitored and maintained.” 
“Father Rollo. . that’s too much. I appreciate all you have done since that day, but asking for my living quarters would be too much-!” 
“Nonsense. You requested sanctuary from the church and since then, we have worked hard to provide that for you. It’s no trouble at all, you’re a precious child of God after all and he never abandons his children.” 
Rollo faced [Reader] who was deep in thought. A place to stay without the haunting memories of their partner who could care less about them. [Reader] turned their gaze to Rollo and smiled, 
“Thank you for your kindness, Father Rollo.” 
From then, [Reader] had been living in the house provided by the church. Their place was warm and cozy, but most importantly, theirs. As days went by, [Reader] continued to attend weekly mass and stayed behind to help the community with events. Though Rollo was a well-known priest, he certainly wasn’t the only one present in the cathedral. The community had gotten together to thank the priests and were thinking of how to repay each one. The madam took the request and decided to host a small celebration for them with food and games for the community. 
The entire town was invited to attend and they did, for there was no greater honor than celebrating their townsmen. Rollo stood in the center, overseeing the event rather than partaking in it like the other priests. He saw how his colleagues engaged with the town, his eyes were trained on them. They had no problem mingling with others and taking the front while Rollo chose to stay behind. 
“Are you not enjoying yourself, Father Rollo?” 
He turned to the voice, it was [Reader]. 
“I am, but conversing with others isn’t something I do quite well at. I leave that task, to the others. What about you, [Reader]?” 
“Oh, I am as well. I too, don’t tend to mingle with others, at least not in events like this. It’s still taking me a while to adjust to being in control of my own life.” 
Rollo spared a glance at [Reader] who sadly reminisced. Their partner would often take control of the conversation and not allow [Reader] to speak. They would often leave [Reader] in social gatherings to fend for themselves and never acknowledge their feelings. After a while and per their adored partner’s request, stopped leaving their shared home. This resulted in [Reader] self-isolating.  
“I see. Often, just being in the company of someone you trust is more than enough at events like these. However I do hope that moving forward, we can heal from the past.” 
Socializing wasn’t his strong suit; if he did, it was always formal and respectful. There was no time for jokes or silly banter, that is why Rollo helped Fleur City behind the scenes. He handled all formal matters while the others tended to the city with their words and charisma. Even now, his words of comfort were formal and didn’t properly convey his feelings. 
“One day, I will join the crowd again and this time, maybe I can take you with me, Father Rollo. Oh, by the way, I have something for you.” 
Rollo faced [Reader] who was looking into their pocket. 
“Here! I know it doesn’t mean much and it’s certainly a very cheap gift, but I want to express my gratitude. Thank you for all that you’ve done, Father Rollo. Without you, I don’t think I would be here with the Madam and the Town, so thank you.” 
He looked at his hands to see a wine-red handkerchief with purple embroidery on the outer edges, his name was woven into the corner. It was a simple gift really, but the difference with most gifts that he received was that this was hand-made. Handmade with love, love from the person that he cared the most about. Rollo stammered, 
“T-Thank you, I shall keep this with me at all times. It’s lovely, [Reader].” 
[Reader] turned to see his eyes gazing deeply at theirs. It was different, unlike a small expression of gratitude with professionalism laced Rollo’s eyes betrayed him. Behind his eyes, desire and love peeked through, even if it was for a split moment. 
“Of course. . .my pleasure, Father Rollo.” 
Rollo was called shortly after to attend to a matter within the cathedral, but before parting from [Reader], he promised he would return promptly. Rollo left and attended the matter fairly quickly, but before leaving to meet up with [Reader], he walked to his office. Locking the door, he took out the handkerchief and brought it up to his nose, inhaling the sweet scent from it. 
‘[Reader]’ 
Rollo recalled the memory of when he first laid eyes on them. It wasn’t anything too special, he was just in town when he stumbled upon them. Rollo has observed throughout his life all the filth from others and their actions. [Reader] had remained a pure innocent soul devoid of any sins. 
‘ Humans are sinful creatures and  that is why we exist. . .’ 
Rollo had engraved that concept into his mind. There are 7 sins within mankind - pride, wrath, envy, gluttony, sloth, greed, and lust. Humans will lie, cheat, steal, manipulate, and take advantage of others for personal greed. In reality, society has failed itself and remains to be a stain on this world. [Reader] was a positive chum, but was a sight to behold in a world of sin. 
Rollo was walking through town, which was a rare sight considering the only place you could glance at him would be in the cathedral. He noticed hidden behind a stall that there was a child, looking confused and scared. 
‘ No doubt lost.’ 
Rollo thought to himself but did not step forward just yet. He recalled a conversation he had with the Madam, a woman whom he respected as she was not like the others either. She had devoted herself to the church and helping others after the passing of her husband.  She would confess that no human was free of sin, but that didn’t mean that they were undeserving of God’s love and a place in his kingdom. It was silly, but he remembered what he told her after, 
“You’re right Madam, everyone is worthy of God’s love. Though do not underestimate humanity’s free will, some of them choose to sin and relish in their filth.”  
The madam shook her head and reminded Rollo that he should not be so quick to place judgment on others, but it was futile. 
He recalled that memory as he saw the scene displayed in front of him, a defenseless child turning to adults begging for help. Those same ‘adults’ had brushed the child off and some even as far to push the child away. 
“P-Please, I can’t find my mommy-” 
“Not interested.” 
“Stay clear of the road! Damn, brats. . .” 
‘Are these the same people who deserve God’s love, Madam?’
Rollo began walking to the child but stopped when he noticed another individual walk up to the child, 
“My name is [Reader], are you lost? Did you lose your parents?” 
The child nodded and [Reader] lightly brushed the tears that were forming away, 
“I see, well let me try to help you find them. When did you see them last?” 
“I saw my mommy over there. . .” 
The child pointed towards the growing crowd. In theory, this mother could be anywhere but if she was observant then no doubt she noticed her child missing. [Reader] nodded and held out their hand to the child, asking permission to hold their hand. The child allowed it, letting [Reader] lead them into the crowd. The child's grip tightened, afraid to lose their newfound savior. Rollo followed them, wanting to make sure that this child wasn’t going to be kidnapped. He saw how ‘[Reader]’ was holding onto the child and stopping in the area, asking the child if they saw their mother. When the child shook their head, [Reader] would begin calling out if someone lost their child. The town was busy and [Reader’s] cries were lost to the wind, but they did not lose their determination. After half an hour, Rollo heard a woman frantically calling out what was probably the child's name as the child perked up at the mention of it. [Reader] carefully maneuvered their way across the crowd to reunite the mother and child. Rollo witnessed the scene of the mother and child holding each other close, the mother turning to [Reader] and thanking them, and [Reader] reassuring them. Rollo scoffed, one person was not enough to persuade his mind that humanity was any different. It didn’t just stop there, weeks after the incident they had another run-in with them - at a distance, of course. 
[Reader] was in the market with the intent of buying groceries, but instead offered to help the people at the stands. It was a never-ending cycle, when they finished their task another person went to them asking for help. 
‘They’re a fool, they’re being taken advantage of by the others-’ 
“I’m sorry, I wouldn’t mind helping but I haven’t finished my shopping. When I finish and if you still need help I can come back.” 
“Oh, I’m sorry [Reader], I didn’t mean to take up your time! It’s fine if you can’t, but thank you anyway.” 
[Reader] politely excused themselves and finished their shopping. A couple of instances off the top of his head that Rollo remembered, [Reader] buying food for a beggar on the street, helping an elderly person cross the street, helping a cat out of their collar once they noticed it was choking from it, and when they helped stitch back up a child's toy once it was ruined. Rollo was getting irritated at this point, 
‘Madam, I swear it’s like you enjoy tormenting me. . .are you trying to prove a point?’ 
The scowl written on his face was unwavering as he continued to observe this happy-go-lucky person. He managed to overhear the conversation between [Reader] and another person. 
“You’re so nice [Reader], it’s so rare to find someone who cares about people the way you do!” 
“You think so? I don’t think I am doing anything too grand, I just do what comes normal to me.” 
“Yes! You have a heart of gold, I mean you offer to help when needed. You should be careful though, people out there would take advantage of that kindness.” 
“Hm, I guess. I mean, I just do what I can but if it’s too much or something I can’t do I’m not opposed to saying no. I think a lot of people just think I’m too nice because they’re just used to being treated with little kindness. I don’t want to be a bystander if I can do something. I hold the door for people if they’re close and I’m not going to shut the door on them, it’s not like it takes too much time.” 
“Aw, you’re so nice.” 
“I don’t think so, I mean would you shut the door on me if I was behind you?” 
“Well. . .” 
“Then you’re just too mean.” 
[Reader] and the person exchanged a laugh before parting ways. Rollo stood still and turned to see [Reader] back in the distance, leaving the marketplace. His resolve didn’t sway, humans were still corrupt and undeserving of salvation, the only difference now was that there was an exception. Rollo would be lying if he sometimes didn’t go into town to glance at [Reader] and if he was lucky enough, he would be there at the same time. Over months though, he began to see less and less of them. He started to worry a bit, for the first weeks he chalked it up to [Reader] wanting time away from town but was surprised to know that nobody had seen them in the market for a month. Rollo approached a vendor, starting small talk, 
“Good morning, Father Rollo. How do you do today?” 
“I’m quite fine, thank you for asking. How about yourself?”
“Aw well, same! Business has been booming but I haven’t seen my top customer in a while!” 
“Oh, and who is that?” 
“[Reader]! They’re a sweet thing but suddenly stopped coming into town. I won’t lie, I am a little worried about them.” 
“[Reader]? I don’t believe I’ve seen them at mass. . .” 
“]Reader] used to go if I remember correctly, but I’m not too sure. I know they used to into town daily, aside from their work they loved to walk around the city. I think they stopped coming out as much a year or two ago, sometimes though they’ll come daily but it’s so rare when they do! I’m not quite sure why-!” 
“It’s because of their partner!” 
Rollo and the vendor turned to another person, an elderly lady who had joined the conversation. 
“Their partner. . .?” 
Rollo questioned, 
“Yes! At first, it was sweet. They met at [Readers’s] work and instantly became close, I would sometimes frequent their workplace you see. Their partner treated them with so much kindness but after a while, it was plain as day, he was isolating them! I remember I was walking home when I overheard them get into an argument, he wanted [Reader] to quit their job. [Reader] refused and that was the end of it, I’m not sure how they managed to persuade him because all I could hear was his yelling. After a while, [Reader] didn’t come to work and I thought they did quit, but when they came back they weren’t the same. They were still kind as ever, but you could tell something was off. Whenever they do come into town, it’s because their partner isn’t in Fleur City. I heard he sometimes goes back to take care of his ill parents.” 
Rollo was conflicted, who was this woman to be spreading such personal information of theirs but he had to thank her, without her, he never would have come to realize what needed to be done. Rollo had to admit, over the time he spent observing [Reader] he did become enamored with them. One true nature is revealed in several ways, how one presents oneself, their thoughts and actions, and what one preaches. Their nature had long been revealed, [Reader] was the only person whom Rollo believed was deserving of God’s love and he would not let them become a martyr for those deserving the flames of hell. 
Rollo set his plan in motion. He carefully wrote a letter and paid someone who the town would never recognize to deliver it into the hands of [Reader’s] partner. Their partner read the contents and before they could react, the person who delivered it had vanished to report to Rollo. 
“It’s been done?” 
“Yes, Father Rollo. May I ask though, what do you plan-” 
“That’s enough, you needn't worry about the content of the letter. Your task was to deliver, which you have. You’re free to go.” 
The man excused himself, leaving Rollo at his desk with his elbows propped but his hands were close together. He was deep in thought, 
“He would be wise to appear later tonight if he truly cares for his parents.” 
Later that night, their partner had walked down to the waterways. There, they met a cloaked individual. 
“Are you the one who sent me that letter? Who the fuck do you think you are to threaten my family-!” 
“I wouldn’t if I were you.” 
The cloaked individual placed their hand out, to halt them from coming closer. They used that same hand to point upwards. When [Reader’s] partner looked up, they were met with several shadows who were not afraid to display their weapons. 
“What do you want?” 
Their partner scoffed out. The cloaked individual spoke out, 
“You have a partner by the name of [Reader]. Let’s just say that they owe me something, that being said it’s hard for us to come in contact with one another. This is where you come in, I need you to lure them into town. Do it on a rainy day, when there are fewer people to overhear, but I need you to lure them to the center of town. Make sure that nobody sees you two or asks about you, do you understand?” 
“What do they owe you-?!” 
“That’s none of your concern! Just, lure them into the center of the town. My men will be watching to make sure no one interferes but remember, if someone comes to find out about this plan. Well, you know what will happen to your family, understood?” 
Their partner gulped in fear and nodded, 
“You may go, and remember to not tell a single soul about this. I’ll always be listening.” 
They remained still for a brief moment, processing the words of the individual, before running out. Once they were out of sight, the person removed their cloak. Rollo stood in the center, looking at the moon and breathing out a sigh of relief. Those armed shadows turned to Rollo and asked, 
“Father Rollo, may I ask who that man is?” 
“Just someone this world would be better without. Keep me updated on his location and if he says anything. Remember, this is all to protect Fleur City.” 
Rollo disappeared within the waterways. 
Rollo approached the fireplace in his office and looked down at the handkerchief once more before tenderly caressing it into his face. 
“[Reader], I’ll repeat your name over and over like a prayer, I’d never tire of it. . .if only you knew of all things I did for you to be by my side. . .” 
The memory rolled over in his head, 
“There is a storm coming, we should make preparations in case of anything.” 
“Oh, you’re always so diligent and a step ahead, Father Rollo.” 
“Madam, one can never be too prepared.” 
The madam shook her head at Rollo’s comments but carried out his request. He had stood in preparation for anything. If what was revealed was true, then [Reader] was certainly being isolated by their partner. Their abusive partner would take advantage of another. That being said, he planned to make it so that they lured [Reader] out into the center of town, where the cathedral lay. Their partner may not know it as he was certain he had never seen him before but [Reader] should. They would request sanctuary from the church and there, He would be by the door, awaiting his beloved with open arms. 
Before he knew it, he could hear the shouts and screams outside the door. 
“Sanctuary, give me sanctuary!” 
Before long, Rollo had opened the door and with a perfect facade, displayed concern. He could tell the way their partner trembled that he had feared for his family, he was caught by the church. Their partner had no choice but to flee the scene with their tail between his legs. After Rollo instructed the Madam to watch over [Reader], Rollo had the guards chase after their partner. In the meantime, Rollo had placed his cloak on and made his way to the outskirts of town where he was being held. 
“L-Let me go! Damn it, it wasn’t my fault-!” 
“Didn’t I tell you not to let anyone interfere?” 
“I-it wasn’t my fault! The church and that stupid priest got in the way! P-please leave my f-family alone-!” 
Rollo removed his cloak and presented himself to their ex-partner. 
“Y-you!?” 
“Don’t worry, your family won’t suffer. Though I will admit, I didn’t think you would go through with sacrificing them.” 
“Y-You threatened my family, w-why wouldn’t I?” 
“I suppose there is some logic to that reason. Tell me, did you even love them?” 
“W-what? I-I suppose I did?” 
“You suppose? You’re not certain?” 
Rollo questioned them further, 
“I mean yes! Yes, I did love them! W-what does this have to do with anything, you said they owed you something no-?” 
“ No, they don’t. I did this more to see what you would do and you played right into it. Once again, I was proved right. Humanity is undeserving of God’s love and salvation, you’re all just scum that turn against each other at any moment it’s convenient. You disgust me.” 
“Y-You did this to prove a point!? Y-You think I won’t reveal to the townspeople who their beloved priest is?” 
“Not very intelligent either, are you? I’m not worried, because this is where judgment shall be passed onto you. This goes a little deeper than what you think, but no matter. I hereby declare you, guilty, and your sentence, punished by death. Dispose of him.” 
Rollo turned around, ignoring the pleas of that man. He did turn around to see their execution, before turning back. 
“We shall burn his body, but in the meantime place him somewhere no one will find out. Oh and, arrange for someone to take care of his parents. Hire a doctor to live with them.” 
The others nodded and carried out the order. Rollo headed back to town with a clear conscious. 
His attention remained on the flames. They had burned his body and afterward, devised a plan to break the news to his parents.  As far as they were concerned, he had passed away from a natural cause but because he was such a good member of the church, he was able to have a doctor stay with them full-time. He placed a chaste kiss on the handkerchief, 
‘This burning desire is turning me to sin. . .’ 
Rollo was sitting at the Confessional and while he was a man of God, he was also human. Like humans, he was running short of his patience. Father Rollo was a devoted man to his occupation, but of course, even messengers of God need time of their own. He was covering for another priest, Father Phoebus, who unexpectedly became ill. Rollo’s face turned into one of annoyance and anger, he was certain that the priest wasn’t ill but rather skipping out on his duties. 
‘ No matter, confession ends in about 10 minutes. . .I just need to hold out till then.’ 
Rollo’s optimistic outlook was shattered the moment he heard someone else sit on the other side of the confessional. He rolled his eyes before turning to the wooden lattice opening but stiffened when he saw it was [Reader]. Luckily, this confessional was designed so that the priest would be hidden away and the penitent was visible. 
“I do apologize for coming in so late, Father Phoebus. . but I would like to confess my sins.” 
Rollo cleared his throat, 
“Of course, please, confess to me what ails you.” 
He placed his gaze at [Reader], who remained unaware that instead of Father Phoebus, it was Rollo. 
“Right, to be honest, I’m not quite sure where to begin. All I know is, I’m committing a grave sin. I ... . .in love with a man that I cannot have. He is married to a vow.” 
Rollo’s breath hitched, turned to stare at [Reader] who looked down in regret and disappointment.
“M-married? May I ask, which vow this man is married to?” 
[Reader] stiffened at the question, 
“Father Phoebus. . .it's Father Rollo who I am enamored with. He is God's messenger and as such, I know my feelings will never be reciprocated yet! Yet, I can’t help but still love him.” 
Rollo knew that Reader required guidance and genuine support, but he couldn’t help the need or desire after hearing that the one he loved also felt the same. He pulled out the wine-red handkerchief with the beautiful purple embroidery that outlined the cloth and spelled his name on the corner. He knew it was wrong, but he couldn’t help it as his dick hardened at the idea of [Reader]. 
“T-tell me, how much you love him?” 
Rollo swallowed the lump in his throat. 
“O-Oh w-well. . .” 
It was an awkward question no doubt so there was some resistance from [Reader]. Rollo pressed on, 
“I would like to know how deep your admiration goes so that I c-can properly guide you.” 
“R-right. . well, I love him. At first, I thought it was just admiration because he helped me get back on my feet. When I gave him his handkerchief, I saw more than a simple thanks on his face, but a face of genuine gratitude, which made me fall deeper. I know he’s only being kind to me because it’s the right thing to do and not because of any special treatment, but I can’t help but-” 
Rollo continued to listen to their feelings, but he would be lying if he said that he wasn’t thinking about stroking his cock to their voice. Rollo had never experienced such feelings towards anyone before, but after meeting [Reader] he became a victim of the sin of greed and lust. 
“Though I will admit, maybe the reason I love him is because I feel safe and secure with him. With my past partner, I didn’t feel the same sense of security. I did at first, but after a while, they became the aggressor. I’m not sure why I didn’t leave immediately after and I kept beating myself up about but Father Rollo, assured me that it was not my fault. He was so kind and understanding, it was different from the others who told me something similar. It was sincere from both sides, but with him it was. . it was different.” 
When they finished confessing, Rollo spoke, 
“I don’t think you should be ashamed of your feelings. It’s a natural human thing to feel, love that is. You’re right, Father Rollo is a man tied to an oath by the Church. Under the eyes of God, he may not reciprocate your feelings but that doesn’t mean he would see you any less different. Your sins are forgiven, my child.” 
[Reader] nodded and bid farewell to ‘Father Phoebus’. Rollo watched their figure retreat and let out a breath of relief. Though he could not stop the pounding in his heart nor the tent in his pants. 
“F-Fuck! [R-Reader]-!” 
Rollo had retreated to his office once confessions were over, there he had his handkerchief wrapped around his dick, jerking himself off. The one that he loved felt the same for him but he was sure their love was not the same as his obsession with them. Such a pure and innocent crush on him whereas he shamefully was stroking his cock to the idea of touching them. 
“Ha. . ha. . wanna t-touch you, fuck-!” 
He threw his head back at the pleasure, how would [Reader] react to seeing their beloved Father Rollo fuck the handkerchief that they had gifted him. His orgasm was approaching and his whines were getting louder, he leaned over his table and spilled his seed onto the wine-red cloth, sweat adorning his face. He let out a sigh of relief and sat down on his chair. He thought of [Reader] and this new found confession. Rollo’s mind was made up. 
“I think we’re all good to go, [Reader] we’re heading out now!” 
“Have a good night!” 
[Reader] bid the other church volunteers farewell before giving the church one last good look. They were about to grab their things to depart as well before the doors opened. They turned to look at Father Rollo, who emerged from his office. 
“F-Father Rollo. . .what brings you out here so late?” 
“I’m just giving the Church one final look, but I did hope to catch you before you left.” 
“Me?” 
“Yes, come [Reader], take a walk with me.” 
[Reader] approached Rollo and their walk began. He was taking them across the Cathedral to put out the candles. 
“I know it’s been a while, but how have you been enjoying yourself in Fleur City?” 
“Oh, just fine! Thank you again, for all that you’ve done of course. It certainly feels amazing being able to freely leave and return without being shackled down. Not to mention, it’s a lot more eventful than I remember.” 
“I see, Father Pheobus has attempted to get more events hosted by the church. He would like the city to get together once in a while. It’s something new that he has been doing, but it seems that the townspeople enjoy it.” 
“That they do, may I ask, Father Rollo? Do you not like to get involved in events like these?” 
The main hall of the Cathedral was darkening with each step, 
“I wouldn’t say I dislike it. Socializing with others isn’t my strong suit, I tend to other matters that I excel at rather than mistakenly saying something I don’t mean.” 
[Reader] had noticed that Rollo tended to stay in the shadows and only speak when something needed to be said. If someone approached him and tried conversing, Rollo would maintain the utmost professionalism. He wasn’t one for idle chatter but never turned someone down if they wanted to have a word with him. Rollo continued his task, with [Reader] following close behind. 
“That’s fair. Sometimes not saying anything is the proper response, but I can see how that may stress you out. After all, you are a priest and everyone’s eyes are on you. Sorry, don’t mean to add to the pressure either.” 
As the candles were extinguished one by one, Rollo’s heels added to the ominous vibe that the Cathedral was giving. 
“You’re right, [Reader]. As a priest, all their eyes are on me waiting to hear what I  say but as such, my eyes are also on them. Despite what I preach, I believe that not everyone is capable of salvation. Humans are not devoid of sin, that is the truth. Though we are created in God’s image, we certainly are not perfect. There are those where their sins are mistakes and nothing more. Then some’s sins are perfectly under their control yet still choose to see nothing wrong in their actions. You can have that outlier where one of those wishes to repent and truly feel regret, but then some parade around shamelessly into God’s house asking for forgiveness. It’s laughable.” 
[Reader] remained silent. There was nothing they could say because ultimately, Father Rollo was right to some degree. Though they would be lying if they weren’t off-put by his sudden change. 
“ Did you know that the baker is having an affair? Ongoing for four years actually, yet he never fails to bring his wife and kids into mass every Sunday morning, thanking God for allowing them to live the way they do. They recently had their marriage anniversary, married for 10 years to be exact. I remember I was the one who renewed their vows. His words still ring in my head,”
“I will love you forever and until the end. You’re the pillar that provides me with the strength to keep going. I would never want another partner other than you, the woman I chose to be the mother of my children. I thank God for this blessing that is you, my love.” 
“How romantic, don’t you think? That same night he went back to his other partner, claiming that they had a big order for an event and he needed to be one step ahead of the game. How could I forget the previous head of the Orphanage, asking for food to provide for the children? The church and townspeople helped with what they could, but every time those children would come into mass they remained as thin as ever but the head remained full and content. It wasn’t until I stepped in and of course, led an investigation to find out that he was starving the kids and eating all the food. Now the orphanage is under the care of the Church, to be more specific, under my direct care. Don’t you see how happy those children are every time you come to mass? I even remember when Madam first came to the church, she told us the story of her husband's passing. She and her beloved husband were walking back home when an armed assailant was waiting for them, upon asking for their valuables he stabbed her husband over 27 times before fleeing. When the man was caught, he was just a petty thief who confessed to the crime. Their reasoning was they had no need to steal but got a kick out of watching the fear in the eyes of the defenseless manifest and to make matters worse, this was his first time killing since he never dared to do it before. What could an elderly man do to him had he chosen to fight back, nothing. That same thief pleaded with God before his execution that I had carried out, to spare him.” 
By the time Rollo had gotten to his part in his talk, almost all the candles were out except for four in the front of the altar. There Rollo turned around, facing [Reader] who stood in the middle closest to the altar. He was closest to the church doors but that area had been pitch black. He continued his speech and though he did not pose a threat to [Reader], yet, They couldn’t help the goosebumps that were forming on their skin and the sudden draft within the Cathedral. 
“Of course, the world is not black and white. There is no right or wrong, for if there was I too would have been punished. It’s not practical for me to base my distaste of humanity on a few bad apples, Madam, even after everything she went through still says that everyone deserves salvation but it’s like you said, [Reader]. We’re all so used to this world the way it is that a simple act of kindness, normalcy if you will, is considered a rarity.” 
[Reader] had recalled when they told that vendor that, those were their words and they still stood by it. The only thing was, they told that to the vendor, not Rollo. They shakily took a step back but kept their eyes trained on Rollo. He noticed their expression as well as their stance, but it was no use. The door to the church was locked and only Rollo had the key. He took a step forward, emerging from the darkness and [Reader] took a step back. 
“F-Father Rollo. . is this what you wanted to talk to me about? Sorry. . I just don’t know how this relates to me. . .” 
He let out a chuckle, 
“ You asked why I don’t like to get involved, right? That is my answer. It’s hard to get involved when I am surrounded by the same people I wish I could condemn. However, you are different. I’ll let you in on a little secret, I too have been keeping an eye on you long before we officially met.  You treated everyone with kindness even those that did not deserve it. You remained as human as possible, someone who could voice their feelings and care for everyone equally, even yourself. It was a sight for sore eyes, like an angel in a sea of devils. You tried your best and worked hard, but you knew what you could and couldn’t do. You were even starting to make me regain hope in this world but I quickly noticed that warm light inside of you start to flicker. It was all because of him, [Partner’s Name]. He had slowly started to dim that warm light inside of you and I couldn’t do anything, or so I thought. Your partner driving you out of your home was not accidental,  I can assure you. I had him lure you here, into the Church. There, I was able to save you from him.” 
[Reader’s] breath hitched. They had always assumed that all the events that led up to now were a mere coincidence, life just being its usual confusing self. It was not unusual for their partner to enter their shared home and demand things, bossing them around. They had assumed that it was the usual same old story. This didn’t change how they saw their partner and their relief that he was no longer in their life, but it changed their perception of Rollo. Had Rollo orchestrated their whole thing? Since when? For how long? Most importantly, for what? 
“Since we are in a church, I might as well confess. I have kept my eye on every single Fleur citizen since I became a priest, but I have kept my eye on you for months now. It’s hard for me to communicate with everyone, but not you [Reader]. Since I’ve been admiring you from a distance, I’ve come to love you. I love your person and your way of being. Your kindness, your truth, your struggles, everything about you I have come to love.” 
By now, [Reader] was up against the altar with Rollo standing in front of them. Both were illuminated by the remaining candles, his hand reached out to caress their cheek. 
“I’ve come to love everything about you, [Reader], even the parts that you aren’t aware of. I’ll remain to love them as well, for there is no one else.” 
“F-Father R-Rollo, I-!” 
He leaned closer to them, his piercing blue-green eyes staring into [Readers] fearful and confused ones. He placed a kiss on their lips, tilting their head back to get a better angle. Seconds passed before he lifted his lips from them, 
“. .And if you were to fall into sin, let it be by my hands.” 
Conflicted could not begin to describe it. The person they loved reciprocated their feelings, so much that they kissed at this very moment. Though logically speaking, Rollo had just admitted to orchestrating the whole thing. Who knew what was the truth and what was a lie? Did their partner move? Was it willingly? Most importantly, did it matter? Sure, maybe there was a time when logic was sound but that time wasn’t right now. Thinking with their heart, [Reader] kissed back. They shared a deep and sensual kiss that neither one dared to break. Rollo pushed his body up against [Reader], grinding into them. The altar luckily wasn’t too high, but there were small steps on either side that allowed them to effortlessly get on the altar. Rollo managed to push their back flat against the cold marbled table, 
“F-Father R-Rollo, are you sure? Y-you’re a man with a vow and-” 
“[Reader], I love you.” 
Their eyes widened once more at the confession and looking up, they weren’t meant with the Rollo they knew. He was no longer stoic and professional, this Rollo was vulnerable. His cheeks were flushed pink as he straddled [Reader’s] hips. His body loomed over theirs and his hands went to open their top. His eyes were glossed over with love and desire. [Reader’s] top was opened to expose their chest and his hands lightly touched their skin. His cold fingers trailed from their neck, chest, and lastly their nipples. Rollo let out a shaky sigh, 
“I love you. Let me worship you, with God as my witness let me prove my devotion to you. .” 
Rollo’s lips neared [Reader’s] and they exchanged a kiss. He lightly bit on their bottom lip, asking for permission to further taste them. A moan escaped [Reader] but they opened their mouth to allow his tongue inside. Rollo pressed himself further into [Reader], afraid to let go. Needing air, [Reader] placed their hands on his clothed chest, pushing against it. Releasing their lips, Rollo straightened but released a breathy moan. [Reader] could see the warmth spreading across his pale skin, but could also feel his growing bulge. Rollo began to lean back down but stopped when [Reader] went to open his top. He allowed them to strip him of his shirt, allowing his pale chest to be exposed. 
“I want to see you too, R-Rollo. . .” 
The tip of his ears turned pink at the comment. He leaned down to their neck, licking up and down. Nibbling and biting down to create hickeys. His lips trailed down, kissing the skin around the newly formed hickey and down to their chest. Moans spilled from both Rollo and [Reader], the pleasure shared between the two. His tongue swirled around their nipple, lightly biting and sucking on them. [Reader] tenderly held Rollo’s head as he worked on their chest. Shaky breaths echoed throughout the Cathedral. 
“F-Fuck. . R-Rollo-!” 
Rollo lifted himself from their chest and saw the bright pink/red circular marks all across their chest. 
“Not enough. . .it’s not e-enough. . “ 
Rollo leaned back down, kissing down to their navel area. His hands played with their bottoms, opening them agonizingly slow. He pulled them down their legs and he shifted back, making sure he could properly remove them. 
“F-Fuck, y-your sex. . .” 
Rollo’s shaky moans slipped out, he stared in awe at [Reader’s] aroused sex. He shifted back before nearing their sex and inhaling their scent. Rollo’s fingers carefully touched around, going to their most sensitive spot and circling his finger around. 
“R-Rollo…right there…feels good….” 
Rollo nodded, continuing to circle his finger. After a while he leaned down, placing his tongue on their sensitive spot. He licked around, replacing the movement of his finger, and began to lick up and down. [Reader] let out soft moans and breaths as he continued pleasuring them. He began to kiss, suck, lick, pinch, and stroke their sensitive bits. Rollo took a break to lick his fingers and pushed them against [Reader’s] hole. Lightly inserting a finger inside, feeling them clench around it. 
“Do you lust for me. . the same way I lust for you?” 
“ I-I’ve a-always wanted you-ngh!” 
Though Rollo wasn’t attending to their sex with his mouth, he was still reaching inside them with his fingers. Slipping a second finger to curl up against that soft spot inside them, pumping rhythmically. Rollo leaned back down, placing his mouth back on their sex. Rollo himself wasn’t too experienced, but based on their sounds, he knew more or so where to touch. His long slender fingers managed to reach thoroughly and the stimulation with his tongue was overwhelming.
“F-Fuck Rollo, g-gonna cum-!” 
Rollo continued to abuse their sex, giving them that final push needed to orgasm. Rollo’s face was drenched with drool and cum, but still managed to swallow everything that they released. He unbuttoned his pants, releasing his cock that was already leaking pre-cum. He wrapped his hands around it, stroking himself. 
“Can I-fuck! P-put it inside you. . .?” 
Rollo’s half-lidded eyes pleaded with [Reader’s], begging to fuck them.  [Reader] propped themself up with their elbow, sat up, and kissed him. Rollo leaned forward to reciprocate. They placed their hands on his cheeks and lightly caressed, 
“You may. . .but can I. .be on top?” 
Rollo softly nodded, letting [Reader] guide him to lie down on the altar instead. [Reader] went to stimulate his already hard dick, but wrapped their hands around it and jerk him, smearing his pre-cum around. They licked their fingers and trailed them down to their hole, lightly fingering themselves to adjust to his size. They scissored themself and when they were ready, hovered over his cock. They lowered themselves onto Rollo’s cock, clenching down on his dick. 
“F-Fuck you’re tight-!” 
Rollo threw his head back at the sensation and his hands reached to hold [Reader’s] hip. [Reader] stayed still to adjust to his size but after a while, began to move. Riding his cock, [Reader] threw their head back as breaths left them, their back slowly arching. Rollo thrust, matching their pace as well. One of his hands moved to their sex, stimulating it at the same pace. 
Aside from the candles, the moonlight entered the Cathedral through the stained glass. The hue of the deep blues and purples reflected off their skin, creating an almost angelic glow. Their moans and whines echoed throughout the church, Rollo’s back was on the altar and his body coated in sweat. His eyes glossed over with tears, looking over at [Reader] who fared the same. Their body was sweaty and warm, their movements were slowing with time. Rollo’s thrust became more erratic, reaching deeper into [Reader]. 
“I-I’m close-! F-Fuck, f-feels s-so good-! Rollo!” 
Mewls spilled out of [Reader]’s mouth. 
“M-Me too-! I-I love you! L-Love you so much! God, I love you so much, [Reader]!” 
“I l-love you too, R-Rollo-!” 
With their final declaration of love, [Reader] came all over Rollo and he came deep inside of them. Their deep breaths were heard throughout the cathedral. [Reader] slumped on top of Rollo with his cock still inside them. They nuzzled into Rollo’s neck, peppering light kisses. 
“Love you s’much, Rollo.” 
“I love you too. . .[Reader].” 
His arms wrapped around them, pressing them closer into him. They stayed like that for a while, before [Reader] perked up, looking at his face. 
“I-I do have a question though. . .did you know that I liked you?” 
Rollo looked down to see their curious gaze, he adverted his eyes with a blush staining his cheeks. 
“It. . .it wasn’t Father Pheobus in the Confessional. It. . .it was me. . .” 
[Readers] face fell, 
“S-SO I CONFESSED TO YOU?” 
[Reader] buried their face in his neck, Rollo let out a soft smile at their antics. 
“That you did. Though I am glad, without you confessing to me, this never would have happened.” 
Still buried in his neck, they mumbled a couple of words. 
“I love you. . .” 
Rollo, of course, said it back. He could hear their soft snores, they had passed out from exhaustion. Only one thought lay in his mind, there was no one else other than him that could preserve the purity within [Reader]. 
‘If hellfire must consume me, so be it. I will never let anyone else take you away from me. Your purity is for me to preserve and to taint, no one else.’ 
This was only the beginning of the tragic tell that would come about to Twisted Wonderland. The story of the righteous priest and judge who burned down Fleur City, all because of their desire for someone they could never truly have. 
A/N: So that was a long one. . .how we feeling? I don’t think I will ever write a part 2, sorry :(( UNLESS I get inspiration but I do want to write headcanons for him so maybe? That being said I will be posting another post that will talk about the future of this blog (I AM NOT LEAVING DW)! That being said, I want to thank my friends for helping me with this fic! Special mention to my friend who helped me confirm his personality for me (I love you Nova) and my other friend, who got horny thoughts when they went to church! :3 
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msfbgraves · 1 year ago
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Thinking about Abraham van Helsing and his refusal to even discuss vampirism until people have drawn their own irrefutable conclusion and going, oh, this poor sweet kaaskop (cheesehead, that's what we Dutchmen call ourselves).
You see, Dutchmen, and Hollanders in particular, are almost aggressively opposed to the idea of the supernatural. We're factual and neutral to a fault. The most well known horror story about the Dutch - The Flying Dutchman - was written by the English. We don't do fancy ourselves. Our horrors are aggressively real and mundane (it's flooding. We are obsessed with flood prevention. Scared out of our mind by drowning and storms). Our horrors are tangible and real and out in the open. Dying in a flood. Dying in a coal mine (a more Victorian fear). Dying in a flooding coal mine, to combine the two. Dying at sea. Dying in traffic.
But you can fight the sea. And we do fight the sea. With engineering. Technology. We look at stuff in detail and deal with what is right in front of us (the sea, the universe), and only that. We're bad poets and good scientists, we're great figurative painters. We are, as everyone knows, aggressively literal and straightforward.
Indeed Bram, that sweet man, has a very literal approach to vampire fighting. Lucy is being fed on? Blood transfusion. Aenemia is aenemia. Also, autopsies are autopsies, no matter why they are performed. Medicinal flowers are medicinal flowers, prevention is prevention no matter the circumstances.
He has been conditioned to think that everyone will violently reject anything supernatural that isn't in the Bible and even then. Because that is a what a Dutchman, a Hollander especially, would likely do. "The ordinary is crazy enough", is a close approximation of one of our most well known sayings.
And now imagine Bram van Helsing coming across vampirism somewhere prior to the story. He will have rejected it at first. Maybe he rejected it too long until he either had to choose between the truth of his own perception or the fact that he was insane. He will have self-diagnosed any and all mental illnesses that could afflict him until deciding that he was of sound mind, and this was a vampire attack. What would have taken a citizen of Bistritz minutes to accept and act upon (nothing too far removed from their religion, most likely), would have taken Bram weeks or months of lonely agony and doubt.
And maybe by then, it was too late?
Still, even after Lucy's testimony (in writing!); the punctured neck, the blood loss, the bat, the wolf attack, the physical changes, does he not say to Jack - if it quacks like a duck and walks like a duck and acts like a duck, I am going to treat it like a duck, my friend. Instead he waits for Lucy to turn in front of Jack's eyes so he will have to believe in vampires because he saw it himself. To Van Helsing this is the only way to convince him because that is what it would take to convince an educated Dutchman. (I always joke that there are so few supernatural occurrences in The Netherlands because our outright refusal to believe in any of it kills it stone dead.)
This is dangerous, by the way - had he been alone, he wouldn't have let it get this far, I am sure of it. But there is a greater problem, a hunting vampire on the loose and he needs the help of his friends. And he doesn't dare confide in them.
How long has he been alone with this...?
Bram... 😭💔
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chloe-skywalker · 8 months ago
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Easter Celebrations - Billy Hargrove
Billy x Fem!reader
Warnings: religion is mentioned if that is a warning?
Word count: 648
Summary: Billy’s family doesn’t really do holiday’s. Not like most families at least. So why not join in and see how his girlfriends family celebrates them. He was invited after all.
Authors Note: Don’t ask me why pretty much all my holiday imagines end up being “Billy Hargrove” imagines. Because I don’t know why it ends up that way. I think it’s because the character just ends up working perfectly for my idea of the story.
P.S - Easter is a religious holiday so if that’s a warning them there you go. Warned, but I only really mention that they go to church not any views or etc…
 Also to those who celebrate it Happy Easter!
Masterlist
Stranger Things Masterlist
Holiday Masterlist
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
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(gif does not portray what goes on in the story on this one its just different I hate reusing gifs)
“I’m so glad you came.” Y/n smiled at Billy as she opened the front door to let him in.
“I wanted to see how you do Easter. I’m sure it’s a hell of a lot different than how it’s been done in my family.” BIlly shrugged putting his hands in his pockets as he entered her home.
“Well, my little sister isn’t up yet. So no eggs have been hunted, and no basket’s touched.” Y/n told him excitedly, closing the door behind him, pulling him into the living room. “Mom made you a basket too.”
Billy looked at her in shock. “She didn't have to do that.”
“She wanted to.” Y/n smiled reassuring him that it was okay, Y/n reached out for his hand and squeezed. And it did.
^     ^     ^
“So how’s Easter so far?” Y/n asked, nudging him with her arm as they sat next to each other on the couch.
“I’m shockingly enjoying it.” Billy smiled at her. He was enjoying it, more than he thought he would. Watching Y/n help her little sister hunt for egg’s and they even did egg’s filled with treats for the dog’s. Her mom was even nice enough to put together a basket for him like Y/n said. Filled with different chocolates and some other stuff.
“I’m glad.” Y/n nodded with a smile also on her face.
“Billy, hunny. We’re going to church in an hour for Easter service. You can stay here if you want. Catch up on some sleep I’m sure.” Y/n’s mom offered not wanting to force the young man to join them.
“Actually…” Billy stopped Y/n from getting up from the couch and her mom from leaving he says with hopeful eyes. He actually wanted to go, he hadn’t been since his mom was around. Hence the necklace. “I’d like to join you all. If that’s ok.”
Y/n turned to look at him, trying not to show her shock. “Of course it is baby.”
“Great. We leave soon.” Y/m/n sent a smile the boys way before going to finish getting ready and help her younger child and their cousins as well.
“Are you ok?” Y/n asked once they headed up to her room for some privacy.
“Yeah. Yeah, why wouldn’t I be?” Billy nodded, not sure why it seemed to be a big deal.
Y/n shook her head side to side not wanting him to think she didn’t want him to come. “Just checking. I mean, have you ever been to church before?”
Billy thought for a moment but he trusted Y/n. So maybe he should share a little more of himself with her. She knew more than most people anyway.
“Back with my mom. When I was younger. I remember what I learned there. It’s always stuck with me.” Billy told her thinking back on his childhood, the few good memories he has.
“Does that have to do with the pendant?” Y/n asked curious since he was in a sharing mood. Moving across the room to stand in front of him as he currently sits on her bed.
“Yeah. It was my mom’s, she gave it to me. It always reminds me of her, and that one day I might see her again… Thank you. For inviting me to celebrate Easter with you and your family.” Billy explained, resting his hands on her hips as she played with the pendant around his neck.
“Billy, you’re part of my family. I’m glad you enjoyed it.” Y/n smiled happily running her hands over his shoulders.
“I’ll always enjoy every day of any life as long as you're in it.” He stated pulling her to fall on top of him laying back on her bed, and the two started to passionately make out. After all, they had some time before church.
Taglist: @gruffle1 @padawancat97 @starkleila
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cannedpickledpeaches · 7 months ago
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Insert Your Name (10)
Mafia!Jade Leech x Mafia!Reader
Link to series masterlist!
Notes and TW: You have a conversation with a "god." This series will have mentions of blood, violence, crime (kidnapping, attempted assassination, extortion), and harassment, as one might expect from a mafia AU. Please enjoy!
Tags: @guava-enjoyer @itszzmoon @twstsandturns @myteacupisempty @rou-luxe @chikitasmol @night-shadowblood-writes2 @haveneulalie @owodi
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You thought as much for a while—that this world exists inside a story. This world is created for “(Y/N),” and you are Friend A, according to that manuscript. But after all this time, your own thoughts and Jade’s persistent questioning has led you to doubt it. Jade was the one who said you aren’t a character, that the two of you have “thoughts and feelings that go beyond ink on paper.”
But a god? It isn’t a common word in Twisted Wonderland. The Seven are legends, but they were real mages who lived millennia past. Some religions exist, but they’re mostly local. To see someone proclaim themself as a god before your eyes seems like a joke.
The man notes your skepticism and chuckles.
“I only mean it in relation to your abilities. It will become clear as I explain.” He takes another sip of tea. “Twisted Wonderland is a place made from stories, for stories. Broadly speaking, it is a ‘story setting.’ And my purpose is to make stories come to life.”
You try to make sense of his words. Referring to himself as a god, talking about what he does to stories . . . . “Are you the author of that manuscript?”
“No, I’m afraid you have come to the wrong conclusion. I make stories come to life, but it has been a long time since I’ve penned one onto paper. As for the matter of the identity of the author, you would not have to look very far, as she has spoken to you only moments prior.”
You inhale sharply. Your eyes drift to the window as your thoughts start to whirl. That can only be (Y/N). She was the author all along? It would make sense since she’s the main character. But nothing else adds up. Her odd behaviour, her breakdown, her supposedly lost memories of you. You’re also pretty sure she has never met Jade prior to the events of the manuscript playing out in real life. How could she have written it before that? Furthermore, you don’t believe (Y/N) could ever be the type of person to imagine harm coming to anyone, even in a fictional story, even if it’s to Jade’s parents whom she has also never met.
“To clarify, that person is not the one you’ve known for some time.” He chuckles at your bewilderment. “(Y/N) was a character created to be a placeholder. Tell me, do you recall her appearance?”
“Of course I—” You cut yourself off. The only things you can think of are adjectives. Pretty. Dainty. A messy bun. A slim waist. Gorgeous, sparkling eyes. You can’t even remember their colour.
“(Y/N), which stands for ‘Your Name,’ is a placeholder. A blank space where anyone can insert their name.” The teacup clinks against its saucer. “It is supposed to be a one-size-fit all. However, the (Y/N) you know was created for a specific person. The name that was intended to replace this placeholder is that of a girl who lives outside this story setting—a girl who did not exist in Twisted Wonderland. That is the true author of this story.”
You don’t understand what he means by “placeholder.” But you know what he means by people who live outside your world. You recall the twins and Azul mentioning something similar. Shrimpy. Prefect. That human from their high school days, someone who supposedly came from another world. Someone who did not exist in Twisted Wonderland before coming here.
“Were there other cases of . . . well, people from other worlds?”
“Certainly. Like I said, Twisted Wonderland is a place made from stories, for stories. Seeing as tales of strangers in strange lands are the foundation for many stories, from folklore to modern novels, it is not strange to believe someone could be the protagonist of a story where they are pulled from another world to this one.” He pauses when he sees your furrowed brows. “I must apologize again. I am often chastised for my long-winded deliveries.”
“Yeah, you talk too much. Cut the fluff and tell me.”
He chuckles. “Yes, of course. The most recent prior to this case was one named Yuu, although that character was not under my jurisdiction. Your author, however, is under my jurisdiction. She was a fan of Yuu’s story. Once it ended, she sought to extend the story. Essentially, she wrote a fanfiction, which is the very manuscript you stumbled upon. The setting is Twisted Wonderland years after Yuu's story, and the main character she created is an idealistic version of herself—the person she wished she could be.”
It makes sense why you could only think of positive adjectives when describing her. (Y/N) was indeed, like you’d thought from the start, created to be perfect.
“Day after day, she wished with all her soul to insert herself into that story, to live out that fantasy. Eventually, I heard her wishes and decided to grant them. I gave her the opportunity to enter (Y/N)’s body.”
“You can do that?”
“My dear,” he says pleasantly, “there was a reason why I likened myself to a god from your perspective.”
So they weren’t empty words or narcissism. This man has powers you have never even heard of.
The first thing you feel is a wave of relief. So the person who came screaming at you with the intent to kill was not (Y/N), after all. It was someone who took over her body. A stranger took over the body of your beloved friend, took over her life, her relationships, her autonomy . . . A stranger. The second thing you feel is anger. How dare they. How dare they waltz in and ruin everything? You keep quiet and listen to the man’s explanation, resentment bubbling in your gut.
“So the author abandoned her previous life to enter your world. It came with a few caveats: she must lose her name and run the course of the story as (Y/N). Only after the story’s conclusion would she regain her name. Another caveat was that she did not have access to (Y/N)’s memories. I imagine it was a point of curiosity for you—why she seemed to forget everything about who you are.”
You narrow your eyes. “It wasn’t Walrus?”
“I am afraid not. She has never encountered Walrus.”
Deductions and contemplations can be wrong. You know this better than anyone. Yet, you can’t help but feel cheated. With all the information you had, how could you possibly have known? It’s as though you were blindsided by a truck. Looking back, it makes sense. The elusive identity of the author. How the manuscript contains insider knowledge about events concerning the Leech family. Of course it does, the author was the one who wrote those details into existence. Even her reaction to seeing you on the beach, which must have been her first time meeting you. Of course she was confused when Jade mentioned you to her. You don’t have a name in the story. How could she possibly know the name of Friend A?
“Walrus is a character who ties up inconsistencies from the original plot. I had to work hard to ensure it all fell in line.”
“Aren’t you a ‘god?’ Can’t you just, I don’t know, make it happen?”
He laughs. “I am not omnipotent. I can only influence factors that make the story more likely to happen. As in, I can create ‘events,’ which influence ‘responses and actions.’ Characters are defined by their base character traits and then shaped through events; this is what is called character development. I design and set into motion events that will most likely produce the desired characterization. Notably, I cannot control characters or their emotions. I must say, that young lady did not understand this concept very well. Her events were heavily focused on what her favourite characters could do for (Y/N), as opposed to building a foundation so they would wish to do such things. It was rather difficult to make sure the pieces fell in place so those events could occur.”
Several things connect in your mind like a line of dominoes tipping each other over. The manual first appeared in that attic with no clear origin—he must have planted it there because you, Jade, and Floyd are the only people who enter that room. Jade fell asleep in (Y/N)’s apartment because he was busy to the point of exhaustion after taking up the mantle as the leader of the mafia. (Y/N) did not become Floyd’s mood stabilizer. Jade did not fall in love with her. When she—the author—confronted you on the beach, she blamed you as the reason why Jade would not love her. But that isn’t entirely true, is it? Her “events”—Jade cooking for her, sleeping in the same bed—relies on Jade already having feelings for her. But to Jade, she was a stranger he met in an alley. You understand a crucial fact: actions and emotions cannot be manipulated.
“I admit that I panicked and caused you alarm when I tried to send you and Jade away from that beach. That whole debacle was not an event in the story, so I caused some factors that led to Floyd accidentally breaking one of Jade’s terrariums. It was not a serious emergency.” He grows pensive. “But now that the story has gone completely off the rails, I must figure out how to proceed. The author is quite upset with me, especially since she thought with my help, the story was guaranteed to go exactly as written.”
“You were communicating with her?”
“Periodically, yes.” He sips his tea, looking directly at you. “But she was terribly hard-headed and refused to listen to my words.”
What a waste. She had a god on her side, yet she couldn’t use her brain to take advantage of it? Perhaps it’s your bias against her, but you can’t think well of the author.
“Why did you decide to grant her wish, anyway?”
The man lowers his gaze with a soft smile. “I am a storyteller at heart, and she had a story she desperately wanted to become her reality.”
You grit your teeth. “So what? It’s only made things difficult for everyone. Is that shitty story even worth telling?”
“What do you use to judge a story’s worth? The number of people who read it? The number of critics or fans? These are all irrelevant.” His eyes, though gentle in the warm light of the fireplace, hold silvery clarity and resolution from the moonlight. “All that matters is that one person found enjoyment in it. Even if the only person who loves a story is its author, that story has served its purpose. There is no such thing as a meaningless story. Every writer sets out to write a story for a reason, be it wealth, fame, personal satisfaction, a creative outlet . . . . Why do you think this author wrote hers?”
It doesn’t take a genius. Her obsessive, near delusional insistence that Jade loves her. Her breakdown from seeing the two of you together on that beach. Her malice towards you, perceived to be standing in the way of her love. Of her happiness.
“She wanted to be loved.”
She wrote a story where she could project herself onto a perfect, infallible main character. In this story, her favourite character would love and spoil her. They’d overcome trials and eventually live out their happily ever after, blissfully in love, even past the story she wrote. She wanted to be loved fully, completely, and unconditionally.
You feel a little sorry for her. But if you were to be honest . . .
“Why the fuck should I care?” You slam your hands on the coffee table, glaring at the man sitting across from you. Your hands curl into fists. “I don’t give a shit about her personal life. Jade and Floyd’s parents are in a coma. They’ve been worried sick. And that’s just fine? Because she wanted to live in her little fantasy of being loved? If I believe everything you say, then she’s the one who wrote that assassination into our lives. Without her, Mister and Missus Leech would be perfectly fine and running everything as usual. Jade and Floyd wouldn’t be missing sleep and meals. Jade could go study terrestrial plants and fungi like he’s always wanted instead of working himself to the bone for the mafia. You’re telling me I’m just supposed to accept it just because she’s got a sob story? And even worse, none of this would’ve happened without you.”
The assassination attempt is mentioned in the story as an offscreen event. In order for it to be true, the man across from you most likely manipulated events so that the attempt would be carried out. Just like he’s been doing for every event, all this time.
You want to lunge across the coffee table. You want to wrap your fingers around his thin throat, dig your thumbs into his carotid arteries, punch his nose in. But you don’t. You restrain yourself, your hands shaking on the table. With his abilities, he could easily make your life impossible.
“Fanfiction is fine. People can write what they want. But her fanfiction has very real consequences on my life and the people I care about. Why would you even help her knowing the harm she’s causing?”
Hypocrite, Floyd has once called you. That author is selfish in that she’s chasing her own happiness at the expense of what she considers minor characters. You’re selfish in that you’re ensuring happiness for yourself and your loved ones at the expense of the author, a stranger to you. You’d be a hypocrite for condemning her, but you don’t mind. You haven’t gotten this far by sacrificing yourself for strangers.
“Why, of course.” The man tilts his head as though it’s obvious. “No story can progress without conflict. You are a supporting character, as are the main male lead’s parents. Forgive me, but such characters are expendable for the purpose of the plot.”
It suddenly dawns on you. You should’ve realized sooner. This man doesn’t see you as a person. He only sees you as another character within a story, a particularly troublesome one who has messed up the plot beyond repair. You might wholeheartedly believe yourself to be a fleshed out human being with thoughts, feelings, and everything else, but he will always think of that as you being a character. His powers and knowledge of the world make him vastly different from you. He cannot talk to you on equal terms.
It’s like if an ant gained sentience and spoke to a human. Even with the ability to communicate perfectly, the ant would never be able to understand why humans enjoy roller coasters or haunted houses, no matter how much either side tries to explain. Similarly, you would never understand this man’s desire to turn stories that are destructive to “characters” into reality. So, you won’t try. You’ll work with his rules.
“I may have a solution to the derailed plot.” You look at him with determination quietly burning in your eyes. “It’s pretty simple if you can do it. Make me the main character.”
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rindough · 7 months ago
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that first anon again: oh my god losing my religion by r.e.m. for boothill. this man is SO full of teenage angst, sitting in the corner of one of those old timey country bars all veiled in shadow looking at the person he has feelings for laughing and dancing in the crowd, completely mesmerised as he rests his chin on a hand with a focused expression, mouth slightly open, and absent-mindedly traces the rim of his glass with a finger from the other, almost without realising. You ain't slick, dude. Go talk to them.
God, I am so fucking normal about him.
OH YA i forgot to reply to a question from ur prev ask, sure! u can give me indie songs as well heheeee, and ngl i wasnt expecting this song but its one of my fav songs to vibe to!!!!
OKOK I GOT THE IDEA AND I FIND IT CUTE buttt i kinda put a twist to it if thats okay!
--;
so lets say you're a regular at this diner in town, you had your fair amount of visits here with your friends, your family, even alone. boothill has seen it all, but god at each time he tries to strike up a conversation with you, it either comes off awkward or him just flying off his seat from trying to 'smoothly' whoosh onto the stool.
he doesn't know what made him this... intrigued by your presence, why is it that everytime the door bell chimes, he glances by the door to see if it was you, the way your voice echo in the quiet diner, the way you spun around after you got your order and straight out the door you walked. he wants to know why and how has he suddenly had the balls to walk up to you, and just start some small talk.
unfortunately on his side, it got to the point where it only ends in 'hi's or 'i see's. he thought he could do it, he thought he could whoosh his way in n perhaps whoosh his way out out this diner with u tagging along. but look at where he is now, it's not that you don't get along, but with the way he looks into your eyes and stutter whatever he wants to say, fumbling over words and fall into silence while you wait, while you search his eyes, his body languages. Waiting for something more, as the man himself got you to become a nervous mess too.
but overtime, he gradually became standoffish, he no longer sits beside you at most of your visits, he doesn't look high up above the diner booth to check if its you (he observes from the window instead 🙄), he just waves, he just stands up to go at your presence, he just-
he no longer visits the diner.
in fear and perhaps shame, he and his cyborg body, you would prefer someone much more... human, right? what does it take for a cyborg like him to woo someone he fancies?
it's impossible, he thought. at this point, he'll just give up and not think about the thing people call, the thing he once dreamt of having, love. he'll just give up the act and focus on some... commission he has or whatever...
but does he really though?
"dude, since day 1, are you still gonna mess this right up?"
the voice behind him pulls him out of his trance, the spunk haired man stays put in his seat, the fold of his index rubbing his bottom lips while a thumb rests on his his sharp jawline. choosing to ignore the blond waiter by his side. the waiter throws his tablecloth aside.
"hello?" he snaps his fingers at him, earning a 'tsk' from the man.
"whaddaya want? can't ya see i'm busy?"
"busy doing what? staring at them from this corner of the bar? i know that look of yours, i saw what happened last time-"
"and what? what makes you think i stand a chance with them, best believe 'm gonna look after them from far away. they don't needa see me here, they don't gotta see me at all."
the waiter groans, as if the man in front of him is being blind or feigning ignorance to escape falling in love, to just... dwell in his insecurities. "bro, look at the way they look at you!"
boothill stays put, eyes blinking at your swaying form, your head shaking side to side at the music. the way you jump, throw your hands up, his mouth falls slightly ajar at the way you move. his throat runs a little dry at the way beauty could exist in many forms and at anytime, and this was one of the many times he had found beauty in you. he had found himself longing for you.
it's agonizing honestly.
both on your end and on his.
you're here swaying to the music from the speakers, mingling with other youngsters in your town, hoping that when you turn around to start talking, it'd be the one you've been looking for this whole time, the one whose clumsy way of flirting leaves you wanting more and more. the night was young and there's ample time for him to visit the diner, but... would he?
for him, he wishes he was the only one under your spotlight, the one making you laugh, oh how he loves the way your lips curl into a smile, the way your eyes twinkle.
if he was out there in the crowd with you, best believe he'll twirl and dip you down on the dancefloor and make you have the best night and dance of your whole life.
he turns his head sideways, looking at the blond. "what's with the way they look at me?"
then he turns back to observe you. maybe, just maybe, you would turn around at a certain degree and meet his yearning gaze. wondering if he can make you feel his presences by drilling holes into your skull.
"..." at this point he's defeated, he can't be bothered to explain all these lovey-dovey pre-dating crush nonsense to this sulking cowboy.
"y'kno mister, they've been looking for you every time when you're not around the diner. do i gotta explain more? do i gotta explain the 'where's boothill? have you seen him? has he visited today?'" he mocks, "ya wanna know what happened when i told them no every single time? they just left the diner- not ordering anything!"
the spunk haired man hums, now no longer focused on you, but instead, his back facing the crowd as he stares into the prepared drink before him, finger circling the rim of the glass as the complaints of the waiter goes unheard.
if what the man was saying is true, then... but... why? what made him special enough for you to promptly ask for him at every visit. and he bet it was every visit, since he's not even in the diner every day for months. so, why did he have to leave?
was it the fear of judgement?
was it fear of rejection?
or was it the fear of losing you?
so-
"so?" the waiter quirks an eyebrow, "what do you plan to do with that information-"
he can't back down now, the aftertaste of soulglad lingers the back of his mouth, he's walking, walking towards the crowd, thank god your back was facing him... otherwise he wouldn't be doing what he was doing now, otherwise he'd instantly run away again. and he does not plan to let you search for him again.
"hey." he whispers, smiling gently at the way you suck in your breath at the sight of him.
he never thought he'd feel his heart melt much more than before the moment your soft lips mellow into a smile, the twinkle of your eyes refreshing his past, yet brief memories with you.
"hi."
--;
©  2024 rindough, do not repost or plagiarize.
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lovemyromance · 2 months ago
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your posts are literally the elriel bible, I don't think i've disagreed with a single one.
In general, elriels agree on a lot of things which is why it's so odd to find EL/GAs fighting with themselves over "elriels say elains gonna be a warrior" and "elriels say elain's gonna save illyria" because I have never EVER seen a single elriel say such a thing. I saw a long post from some elucien about how elriels self-insert and then they listed a long list of things about what canon elain is - except i don't think elriels would even disagree with what they were saying?
It got kind of muddy when they started trying to claim that "canonically azriel only lusts after elain" but whatever - you get the point. Why are they putting words in our mouths?
Thank you :) I know I always excessively post about elriel (because I'm pretty sure I have the attention span of a squirrel), but some days these petty arguments really make my eye twitch.
Idk why antis seem to think Elriels want Elain to be some warrior, savior of Illyria, High Queen type character. I thought we've all been pretty vocal in wanting to keep her femininity and her kindness and finding strength in her compassion.
If it's because the fanarts....well I think we've all established that nobody is really claiming fanarts to be canon. I think that goes without saying when we have fanart of an Elriel family with Illyrian offspring - or when Eluciens have fanart of Elain looking happy around Lucien lmao. Both are not canon. Who cares - it's fanart? It's not like we really going to pretend that all their fanart is canon either?
Because canonically - Elain can't stand Lucien. Canonically, Azriel has literally never touched Gwyn.
There are basic traits to these characters that nobody can deny. But the antis always have a way of adding additional, personal bias into things. They say Elain's not a warrior - cool, that's true, that's canon – but then they take it a step too far and try to claim its canon that she abhors all violence and she would never touch a dagger and she would hate Azriel because he's a warrior.
Canonically, Elain killed the fucking King of Hybern. She might not crave violence (oh- also what an odd thing to claim - that ANY character loves violence, btw), but she has already proven to be violent when needed.
Canonically, Elain does use a dagger. Not just any dagger - Truthteller.
Nobody's saying she out here training as a Valkyrie at the HOW - but she's not just sitting here in frolicking in a meadow while the rest of her friends and family go to war. She was literally taken AWAY from the main battle in ACOWAR and she still showed back up to pull the most badass move in the books, saving everyone.
Idk what about that is so hard to understand. No Elriel has said she's gonna save Illyria (lol), no one has claimed she's going to be Enalius the Second, nobody is out here waiting for her to take part in the BR and also become a Carthyian.
Elriels like Elain as she is. And even though she's not a warrior, even though she doesn't enjoy violence, even though she isn't a Cartyhian – Azriel still adores her. Azriel still wants her enough to question his religion. That's literally in the books. I can give you the exact page number and quote. I don't need to do any "extra analysis"
You want to talk about canon? Let's talk about how Elain is so perfect that she has even the most brooding warrior falling for her. Let's talk about how Azriel was willing to fight in a blood duel for her. Let's talk about how she was so ready to have a tryst with the Spymaster under everyone's watchful eyes.
We don't need to change anything about Elain, certainly not to have her end up with Azriel. Elriel having feelings for each other is already canon. Elriels did not have to change a single thing about them for them to find each other. That was SJM, so take it up with her.
I mean - she kind of ate when she summed up their relationship in ACOWAR with that scene in the garden...they might not make sense on paper but there's something poetic about them
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valhallaas · 2 years ago
Text
A Love Like Religion
Coming Down by Halsey
Pairing: Jake Hangman Seresin x Joker!reader
Word Count: 4.7k
warnings: SMUT: (18+ minors, dni) dom!jake, brattysub!reader, degradation kink, light orgasm denial, overstimulation, spanking, daddy kink, choking, oral (female receiving), p in v, creampie (wrap it up pals)
Summary: jake likes when you’re mean, but god, you love when he’s meaner.
A/N: it’s me, hi, i’m the problem. i am so in love with this. it is by far the dirtiest thing i’ve ever written and jake absolutely deserves it. i think i might make a part 2, but we’ll see--play it by ear. as always, feedback is so so so appreciated. i hope you guys enjoy it!
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While not a lot of people would agree, there’s something about being in Lemoore. You go one way and there’s the mountains, you go the other and you know you’ll hit ocean water. On top of the Central Valley being one of the top agricultural producers of the country. That being said, there isn’t a whole lot to do.
Well, that isn’t exactly true. There is something. Someone.
Hangman’s grin splits his face when he sees you enter the common room. His eyes light up like the fourth of July. It sends a heat through you, makes the muscles in your lower stomach clench tight. You haven’t seen him in months, almost a year. Seeing him here when you didn’t even know he’d be has your mind spinning. You feel dizzy, slightly sick. Your face must show it because his smile loses some of its luster, but the cockiness remains. Of course it does. It’s Jake fucking Seresin we’re talking about.
“Well well well, as I live and breathe. Nice to see you, Joker.”
But is it really? A lick of betrayal runs up your spine. If you could even call it that. Really what you feel is jealousy. You feel scorned. You feel like you’ve been fucking cheated on and it’s eating you alive. You can’t bring yourself to play his games. Maybe when you pull yourself together. When you can face him and there isn’t a stinging sensation at the back of your eyes. You’re a big girl, you’ll figure it out.
Your gaze lingers, burns into him, your eyebrow twitches when he shifts under your unyielding gaze. He does it because it’s not like you. Or it is, just not in public. Your lips shift, and you can feel it. The tension pouring out of you, you bask in it. Turning from him, without acknowledging him is going to light a fire you’re sure would scorch you later. A group of familiar faces greet you on the other side of the room. Time passes slowly. You’re keeping yourself here, but you’re not sure why. It isn’t like he won’t find you wherever you are.
Everyone at the table is bursting with laughter. It’s friday night and everyone is gearing up to head out for drinks. You cringe at the idea. Someone had mentioned Fresno and you’d rather die. It’s time to head in. A bottle of wine. A trashy romcom. You’ll be fine. You always are.
“Joker, are you coming?”
Uh, what? You weren’t really expecting them to want you to come. Digging your teeth into your bottom lip, you go to respond before someone else does for you.
“Nah, she ain’t going.” You glare at the side of Hangman’s head.
“What do you mean?” Hyena asks, looking between the two of you.
“Do you know why Joker got her name?”
You cannot stop the eyeroll that overcomes you. You want to stab him in his perfect fucking face with a pencil, snap it off in his eye.
“Uh, because she’s a fucking hoot?” Malibu says from behind you.
“No. Because she doesn’t know how to take a joke. She’s got a permanent stick up her ass.”
Your hands clench and unclench at your sides. Yep. That’s what they say. You follow the rules. You don’t cave under peer pressure. If someone says something that’s not funny, you’re not laughing just to make them feel better. People called you abrasive, stuck up, a bitch. Or in the words of Jake Seresin, a fucking brat.
You nod your head, not disagreeing. Hangman’s eyebrows shoot upwards, clearly surprised. Shifting, you rest your elbow on the arm of the couch, hand in palm as you level a searing gaze at him. A gaze that tells him you know something that he never thought you’d find out. With a small tilt of your head, your lips pull up in a shy smirk.
“Don’t talk about my ass, bagman. But, speaking of call signs, I heard you went on a date recently.” His eyes widen, grip tightening on the back of the couch. “Heard it didn’t go too well. Heard you couldn’t make Banshee live up to her name.”
You can’t hide the fire in your eyes, the anger in your voice. You’re dripping with accusations. The tone you're taking on is a warning. A demand. You’re begging. The girls around you burst into giggles. Checkmate. They add on to your taunt. Talking about how he can’t get it up. Big talk for such a little man. The both of you know that it’s not true, but they didn’t need to know that. You aren’t an ‘established relationship’ it’s more of when you happen to be together you’re together. It’s been that way for years—since you graduated from top gun. The stinging sensation is back. You blink, swallowing before standing to your feet. You don’t meet anybody’s gaze, keeping your head down, wiping your hands against your pants, dying to get rid of the sudden clamminess.
“Anyway,” you say lightly, pulling the girls’ attention back to you. “I’m heading home.”
“Jo, you need to come out with us,” Malibu begs, her hand catching your wrist before you could pull away. “We need to get you laid.”
A  snort leaves you, eyes widening at the idea of a stranger touching you. Instantly you yank yourself away from her. “Yeah, no. Thanks, but no thanks.”
Hyena and Malibu grumble, but leave it. They’re suspicious. Never have you gone home with someone from a bar. Never have you woken up to a stranger sleeping next to you. Your shoes were not made for the walk of shame. Giving them a warm smile, you meet Hangman’s gaze when you turn and your smile brightens. His expression is stern, eyes hard, teeth clenched. With a wink you say your goodbyes and head home.
You like California. Wish the coast was closer, but this is fine. You live an hour off base. Separation from work and home, even if it means there's a commute. The sun is just setting when you finally get to the small little house with the white picket fence. It’s a cliche, but you don’t mind. Going about your routine, you light your candles, turn on the two lamps in your living room. You’ve got music playing on low, you’re walking around your kitchen to prepare dinner with a glass of wine in hand. It’s the first time you've been home in months. It’s the first time you’ve let yourself relax, but there was no release. The tension was still there. It had nothing to do with the mission. The sound of the knife hitting the cutting board echoes through your mind, a reminder of what you’re doing. Setting the knife down you realize your hands are shaking.
It’s Jake. Of course it is. He’s the only person who has ever been able to put you on edge like this. He only spoke two sentences to you. But it’s his presence. It’s domineering, it’s controlling, it’s cocky and you love every second he’s around you. Even if sometimes you wish you could smack him upside the head. Like right now. You’re angry and you’re hurt. It’s eating you up inside because you’ve given yourself up. Given everything to him and–god, you’re such a fool to pay that price. You want more, always want more of him. That doesn’t mean he wants or needs you.
** You’re ringing out your hair when you hear the front door open. Heavy footsteps move throughout the house, creaking on loose floorboards. Did you have the energy for this right now? You may have had one too many glasses of wine. Meaning, you drank the whole damn bottle. Pulling a shirt from one of the drawers, you glance at yourself in the mirror. Your eyes are red rimmed, cheeks blotchy. Sighing, you go to pull the worn shirt over your head.
“Don’t even think about it.” You lift your gaze to meet Jake’s in the mirror. Your eyebrow twitches as his teeth clench, not missing his wandering eyes. “I have plans for you, you fucking brat.”
You snort. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“You like to talk don’t you, Jo?”
“Talk is cheap, and word travels fast. Faster than you thought it would, apparently.”
“You jealous Joker?” Jake says with a growing smirk.
Rage burned hot and heavy in your chest. Your hands shake and your lip snarls. If he wants to fucking fight, you’ll bring a goddamn war.
“No, not jealous.” A fucking lie. It tastes bitter on your tongue. “Wouldn’t want to feed your ego.”
Your body relaxes when you feel the brush of him against your back. The bedroom isn’t all that big. Jake stands behind you, invading your space, warming you up, and swallowing you whole. There is nowhere to go, nowhere to hide. You're at his mercy, one hand clenching the shirt–his shirt from a long past concert, and your other hand on the dresser. Your knees wobble, threatening to buckle at any given moment.
“I missed you, sweetheart.”
You smile at the nickname. “I bet you did.”
His hand comes down on your naked ass cheek with sudden force. “Brat.”
You grin at him through the mirror. If you weren’t as close as you were, you’d have missed the way his breath hitched. You swallow, tongue darting out to wet your lips. You’re exhausted. When he grabs at your hips, you know you’re done for. Your eyes shut when his hand pulls your hair to rest over one shoulder. Another smack to your ass has them snapping open. You meet his eyes in the mirror. A warning.
Only you were without clothes. It makes you feel a little vulnerable. But then Jake pushes himself even closer. He’s no longer in his khakis. He’s in sweats and a t-shirt. You can feel him breathing, his chest warming your back. It’s when he pushes his hips against you—you can feel him. All of him. It makes your head fall back against his chest.
A hand trails down your side while the other moves to your chest. You slip out a whine when a nipple is taken between his expert fingers. His hands on you is the best feeling in the world. The heat coming from him is intoxicating. A hum rumbles from him when his fingers finally find your core, slipping between your folds. You’re completely soaked. You’ve been this way since you saw him in the common room. You were really that weak. Your breath locks in your throat when he slips a digit in.
“Fuck,” he mutters, his accent tainting his words. “Fuck, sweetheart.”
You whine again, you can’t help it. You push your hips back into him, arching your back. It’s truly amazing how desperate and needy he can make you. One of these days you’ll have to time it. He pulls his finger out only to push it back in with another. He does this, warming up your body, until you’re moaning, your own hand wrapping around his wrist. You can feel his grin against the back of your neck. You can’t stop your hips from grounding down on his hand. Desire has taken over. Jake has left your nipple, hand now wrapped around your throat, holding you hostage to watch yourself in the mirror. He grunts when you clench around his fingers. You’re close, too close.
“Daddy,” you breathe, fingers digging into his arm.
“There she is. There’s my sweet girl. Not the fucking brat I’ve been dealing with today. Do you want to come, baby? Hmm? Should I let you? Let you gush all over my fucking hand, and then maybe I’ll think about lettin’ my cock sink into you? Does that sound good?”
If you have him whisper dirty things in your ear all hours of the day, you’d die happy. It’s only moments later when the band is about to snap that he pulls his hand completely away from you. Your core throbs with the sudden emptiness. Meeting Jake’s stare in the mirror you see just how blown out his eyes are. His grip tightens around your throat before he lets go. Really, you should have seen it coming. It annoys you because you only want more.
You can feel him moving behind you. The soft sounds of his clothes hitting the floor. Your whole body shivers in anticipation. Heat pulses between your legs. You love the idea of him breaking you open. It’s fucked up, and dangerous, but it warms your belly all the same. His lips pink and full, he bends down and kisses right between your shoulder blades. Traveling up your spine, over your shoulder, he digs his teeth in where it meets your neck. You don’t miss his smirk when you moan.
“Are you ready to start being nice, sweetheart?”
“I’ve been nice.”
His hand cracks hard across your ass. “Wrong answer.”
“Fuck, Jake, you be nice.”
Roughly, he spins you around and pins you against the dresser. His chest is heaving, breathing ragged enough to match your own. He’s got a slight crazed look in his eye. One you only see when it’s just the two of you. Slowly a smile creeps on your lips. Your nose wrinkles as you stare up at him.
“This is me being nice.” You tilt your head, shaking it at him. Jake was a lot of things, but nice wasn’t one of them.  “Are you sure you want this?”
“Yes.”
“Yes what?” He raises a brow.
“Yes daddy.”
Jake kisses your forehead before pushing you towards the bed. You go without argument. Following back into your soft sheets, elbows holding you up.
“C’mon pretty baby. Open your legs.”
You do, slowly, testing his patience. Jake doesn’t say anything, only watches. His eyes never move from your pussy. Open, vulnerable, exposed. He takes a few steps forward, his hard length bobbing with each step. You eye it for a moment, a small one. Not sure what hell you’d pay if he caught you staring. You gasp, body slightly jumping when there’s a sudden slap against your center. Glancing up at Jake to see him with a malicious grin. Fuck. You mewl and writhe at the sting of the slap. He just chuckles darkly, relishing in the sounds you make as you squirm beneath him. Jake moves up the bed, his lips finding their way to your skin. Biting, licking, sucking a trail up your tender thighs, teasing you.
“Such a pretty pussy, sweetheart.”
A squeal escapes you when he drags his teeth over your clit. You haven’t even orgasmed yet but he’s pushing you towards overstimulation. He’s purposely driving you crazy, but god, do you like when he’s mean. You wiggle your hips as his head dips lower, feeling the warmth of his breath ghosting over your core. You instinctively lift your hips up, exposing your dripping cunt to him. You hear him hum in satisfaction as you moan and buck in desperation for his touch.
“Such a needy little thing” he taunts, placing hot kisses to the back of your thighs, just below the curve of your ass. “You want the me to fuck you with my tongue hmm? Is that what you want?”
“God, yes.”
He laughs. “Heaven can’t help you now, sweetheart. It’s just you and me here.”
You groan as he licks from your throbbing core up to your clit, not lingering for you to get any kind of satisfaction. “Come on baby, you can do better than that.”
“Your mouth, your fucking fingers, I don’t care.”
He sits up suddenly, placing another sharp slap to your ass, making your skin sting. You were sure you’d have welts the shape of his hand tomorrow.
“Then beg for it” Jake commands, his hands running up and down your thighs, his fingers getting tantalizingly close to your cunt before he starts moving away again.  
“Please” you whine, hands tightening in the sheets. You want to touch him. Knowing him though, he’d pull back and away from your reach. Making this a lot more torturous than it was already.  “Please, touch me. Use your tongue, your hands, anything. Please, daddy, please just touch me”.
He sighs, moving back to hover over you. “So needy, sweetheart. What do you want? Do you even know?”
“I know that I want you.”
 That’s the truth. You say a lot of shit when he’s got you under him. You’d still say it if he bothered to ask you in broad daylight while up in the clouds. But he hasn’t, so you keep it to yourself. A well kept secret that makes your chest ache.
“Joker,” you look at him, fixating on how his normal green was just a thin ring around black. “Are you going to let me have it? Or am I going to have to fucking take it?”
You smile. “You can have whatever you want. All you gotta do is ask.”
Jake gives you a breathtaking smile, his hand lifting to your face, thumb running along your cheekbone. Your breath catches. It’s a tender touch, a gentle moment. “My good girl,” he says softly. He’s reminding you. This is not punishment, this is worship. “I think I'd like to pray.”
“Wha—”
Seeing Jake on his belly, face level with your cunt has you whimpering. You can see him smirking, his hot breath fanning over you with every exhale.
“I haven’t even touched you yet, baby.” The pet name has your head falling back against the pillows.
“So fucking needy, huh baby?” He questions, hands moving up over your thighs, thick fingers digging into them so tight you’ll have bruises to show for it. “Can’t help but be a bratty little whore, huh? I know why you do it sweetheart. Whatever gets my attention.”
He runs his nose over your center, taking in a deep breath. His hands tighten on your thighs, as if he’s stopping himself from diving right in. You shudder, squeezing your thighs together only for him to pry them apart. You swallow, breathing shallow, taking him in as his large hand lifts one of your legs to rest on his shoulder. You’re a pathetic pile of putty in his hands. You can’t help but wonder if he knew he could mold you into anything he wanted. He could straight out ruin you and you’d thank him. But that’s the point, isn’t it? Your whole relationship. You give and he takes. Jake is good, great even, at what he does. He’ll never take what he can’t give in return.
His hand trails up your leg, rough calluses catching on your skin. There is no buildup, his finger running through your folds, a hum as he collects it before sticking the digit in his mouth.
“Look at all that. So fucking sweet, baby. Your cunt tastes so much better, though, isn’t that right?”
“Yes.” It comes out in a sigh.
“Yes what?”
You clench around nothing. The forcefulness of his voice. You moan at his words. He gave nothing else before diving in. You moan, your head falling back against the pillows again. Only to lift it when he smacks your thigh.
“Joker,” he warns.
You simply nod, biting back your whimper. His tongue is flat as it makes its way through your folds. He’s done this hundreds of times, pushed you over the edge so many times. Every time feels like the first time. A whimper escapes you.
“Daddy,” you murmur, hips lifting to roll against his face.
“Sweetheart.” He replies voice thick with amusement. You squirm at the feel of his breath against you. His thumb rolls your clit in circles as his tongue parts your folds. He slips a digit in before replacing it with his tongue.
You grind yourself on his face, his nose catching against your clit. You whisper his name, it falls from your lips like a hymn. He holds you open and licks up the seam of your sex, you jerk, knee barely grazing his cheek.
“Easy, Jo.”
He strokes and teases your pussy. Switching off between his thick fingers and his tongue. He has you quivering, moans spilling out of you. The sounds of you clenching around his fingers, his tongue are obscene and he fucking loves it.  You feel like you’re in the sky. Head in the clouds and you aren’t sure you’re ever coming back down. You move with every flick of his tongue. Heel digging into his shoulder when he sucks your clit into his warm mouth. It almost sends you over.
“It’s been months, baby. Months since I’ve tasted you. Months since I’ve had you spread out like this. I’ll tell you a secret: I thought about it every night. Didn’t fall asleep once without thinking of you.”
You’re on the edge. Just a push. A simple push and—his words hit you and it’s like being doused with water. He has no idea about you. It’s a crack in your armor, a splinter in your chest. Fuck, when did your feelings for him get so deep? How did things get so messed up? A sob escapes you, tears falling down your cheeks in burning trails. Jake slows down, noticing you’re in your head, but not really there with him. Not how you should be. He goes to ask you what’s wrong when he realizes you’re crying. Instantly he’s on high alert. Jake will fuck you through a lot of things, but he will not do this while you’re crying. You’ve never cried during sex.
Rough fingers catch your tears as they fall. You shake your head, not wanting him to touch you. He wants to understand, you know he does. How can you tell him like this, in the middle of all this? You’re a fucking mess and it only proves what you already knew. You cannot function without him. He calls your name, soft but stern. Green eyes take you in, nothing but concern coloring his face.
“Talk to me, sweetheart.”
You sigh, looking away from him. “I lied.”
“About what.”
“About being jealous.”
Jake’s lips twitch. “I know.”
“I shouldn’t be,” you whisper, “that’s our deal, right?”
“Our deal…” He sighs, coming face to face with you. “Sweetheart. All I did was take her out to dinner. I think she expected more, but I couldn’t because all I could think about was you.”
Biting your lip you look at him again. “But why, Jake? Why would–”
“Fitz. I heard Fitz took you out.”
Oh for the love of god. The fucking Navy were a bunch of high school girls. Gossiping like no one’s business. Finally, you lifted a hand and ran it through his blonde locks, something you’d been dying to do all night. “Oh, Jake. We are both so stupid.”
“Excuse me?”
“Fitz took me out for my birthday. A whole group of people were there, including Rooster and Phoenix.”
If you could take a picture of his face, you would have. Slowly a smile spreads over his face, and it’s becoming one of your favorite things. You love the way he looks at you. You’re pretty sure you love him, but you’re not going to be admitting that tonight.
Jake bumps his nose with yours. “You’re my girl, sweetheart. Only you. It’s been that way for a long time.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah. Do you want to continue?”
You lean forward and bite right where his shoulder meets his neck, making him hiss in pain. “Yes daddy.”
“Fucking brat.”
You can’t help but laugh. You’re lighter than you have been in a long time. You feel free. You feel like an idiot because it came to a head while you were getting eaten out, but beggars can’t be choosers. Your laughter gets cut off with Jake’s tongue. He’s returned back to your cunt and is going at full force. Saliva is pooling on the sheets below you along with your arousal. Three fingers pump into you, curling into that spongy part over and over. There is no stopping. Jake’s brought you right to the edge and he’s sending you over without a care in the world.
“Oh my god,”
Jake groans against you, feeling your release. You clench tightly on his fingers as he fucks them into you, wanting to take everything you’ve got to give. He keeps up his pace, helping you ride it out. As your hips slow down he replaces his fingers with his tongue, his mouth lapping at all that you’ve spent while his thumb flicks at your clit.  
“No, no. It’s too much.”
“Come on, be a good girl. I know you’ve got another one for me.”
It should embarrass you that he’s picked up on it. A chronic people pleaser, you bask in praise. His praise is far and between. Between the nit picking and the brat calling. Jake hardly gives praise to anyone and it shoots straight to your core. You’re desperate, small whimpers falling from your lips, your cunt pulsing and aching. It’s all burning heat before it melts into pleasure.
You're dripping down your thighs. You know it’s all over his face. He catches your eye when he pulls away, a grin tilting his full lips. A gift just for you. He’s shining with your release. Leaning forward he catches you by surprise and kisses you. Thrusting his tongue into your mouth, you moan at the taste of you. As quickly as it started it was over.
He swiftly moves to his knees, a hand slides across your ass, slapping you just hard enough to leave a red handprint behind as he thrust deep, bottoming out. It’s a silent scream, no sound leaving you. He’s big, too big, and he’s filling you up to the brim. It hurts, a pain that you will never get enough of. Your knuckles turn white with each rough, hard thrust. Jake slides a hand up your stomach, between your breasts so his hand can wrap itself around your throat. He loves to watch you come undone around him, and he’ll never let you forget it either. Your cheeks are flushed, pupils blown with lust, and lips parted as each of your clipped breaths turn into whimpers.
“Fuck,” he grits, hand tightening, cutting off a little more air, “feel good.”
You stare back at him, feel as he moves to kneel on one knee, the angle shifting somewhere deeper inside of you. His teeth dig into your skin again, this time leaving bruises behind. It makes you whine. Little secrets that litter your skin. He thrusts harder, rougher until your hand is wrapped around his wrist trying to hold you steady. He’s fully claiming you. Cock punching into the deepest part of you. Your head is empty, full of nothing but Jake. Words are pouring out of you, but you couldn’t understand what you were trying to say even if you wanted to. Whatever it is he wants to hear. Whatever keeps him close, keeps him inside of you. It’s been so long, too long and you honestly believe you’ll die if he were to leave.
“Daddy, I–” you're cut off by a whimper when he reaches that hard to reach spot deep inside you. Over and over again, you feel it coming, your orgasm is going to come crashing down and you’re ready to bask in it.
“You going to come on my cock, baby?”
“Yes! Yes daddy. Please, please, daddy. Don’t stop. More, more, Holy fuck,”
You come on his cock like clockwork, and when you fall back into your bed sheets, your body trembles, heaving desperately for air. Jake groans, pulling you up until you’re flush against him. His lips meet yours in a messy kiss, bucking his hips harder until he’s chasing his high right over the ledge with you.
“Good girl,” he praises, letting go of your throat. “Good fuckin’ girl.”
Your breath is a little ragged. You're sweaty, exhausted, and in need of another shower. You smile when Jake pulls out and lays down next to you, pushing your hair out of your face. There was never a sacrifice when it came to Jake. Hangman. It's as easy as breathing, you just need to know how to let go.
“You good, sweetheart?”
“I’m good.” You look over at him, trace a finger over his bottom lip. “I did miss you, you know.”
He smiles, kissing the pad of your thumb. “Yeah, I know.”
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greyborn2 · 4 months ago
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A SUMMARY OF MAORMER*
*with occasional headcanon
Gosh, so this one took a while. What follows is a complete summary of maormeri lore as it currently stands. Mostly taken from ESO since, well, that's been are biggest source so far really. Everything written in blue is as near to fact as we can get. It is either directly stated or pretty clearly inferred from the pieces of lore we have. HOWEVER... well, I couldn't help myself. I'm a theorist. Everything not written in blue is more theorizing and worldbuilding on my part. As a general rule I've kept to a 'connect and fill in the dots' approach rather than wholesale making stuff up. So while a lot of this isn't canon, I'm doing my best to keep to its spirit. Also; this is a long ass post so feel free to just skip around to titled areas that interest you!!
HISTORY AND RELIGION
Altmeri and Maormeri history (and faith, on the sea elves’ part) understandably differ somewhat on the topic of king Orgnum. The Altmer hold that he was once a nobleman, and priest of Auriel, and a phenomenally powerful sorcerer who turned from his god. He, they go on to claim, would start a cult in reverence of himself, bankrolled by arcane relics he forged. The Aldmer eventually being forced to break a part of their homeland away, cast it into the sea, and weave powerful mist magicks around it to contain their enemies.
The Maormer claim and fervently believe, for their part, that what the other Mer worship as Auriel is simply a small fragment of the whole truth. Their faith sticks surprisingly close to that of the Redguards; that the time god is both beginning and ending. The serpent god Satakal who bites on and eats his own tail. A god not unlike a synthesis of the traditional Auriel and the Nordic Alduin. They say Satakal, coiling serpent of time, upon who's scales all reality rests, would fall in love with the Mother Sea; from their union all the beasts of the shores and seas came. And so in love with the Mother Sea and his children was Satakal that he would shed his godly scales, for this rotation of time, walk as an elf. King Orgnum. From there the Maormeri and Altmeri tellings converge. They speak of Orgnum attempting to speak the truth to the Aldmer, of how most rejected him, and how he and the Maormer were banished.
While Orgnum-as-Satakal is the primary god of the Maormer, much reverence is also paid to the Mother Sea as well.
Some tellings draw more parallels between the story of Satakal and Mother Sea to that of Anu and Padomay, with each related to the other respectively. By this account Orgnum, as the second incarnation of their telling of Anu, can be seen as a synthesis of Anuiel and Auriel into one.
Maormer see Orgnum as not just their king, but king by right of all the seas, of his love. By this reasoning all islands, from the tiniest rock to the summerset isles themselves, are his by right.
Legend claims that Orgnum made the Maormer his children, and the children of Mother Sea, by ''spilling the spirit of the sea'' into their blood, and it was this that transformed the Aldmer into the Maormer.
When Satakal assumed the skin of Orgnum, his visage as serpent god of time still shone through his mortal form. He began looking as an ancient Mer, and as this rotation of time slowly shortens so to does his mortal life, growing younger and younger by the centuries instead of older. In the current era, it is rumoured, that king Orgnum looks as an adolescent.
Though king Orgnum's full face is almost never seen, everything below the eyes being hidden by a long veil, those who have seen it say he possesses an otherworldly beauty. Some priests and priestesses to Satakal adopt this item of fashion.
Another mark of Orgnum’s divinity is his third arm. Legend says that one can reach toward the past, one the present, and one the future. Though little has been seen of his ability to manipulate time beyond minor miracles.
King Orgnum is able to adjust his form, taking on the shape of the largest sea serpent ever seen. This silver scaled beast is the terror of the Altmeri navy and has been seen swallowing entire ships whole. It is Orgnum’s duel nature of man and serpent that the common Maormer echoes by bonding with a sea serpent at birth.
PYANDONEA
Pyandonea is a floating island chain, kept above the sea by a vast 'bed' of roots beneath her, massive deposits of the naturally floating frog metal, and a small amount of lingering Aldmeri magicks.
Pyandonea, and her surrounding sea, is eternally shrouded in unrelenting mist. Without magical aid the mist is quite literally impossible to traverse. An unaided Maormer could no more leave the isles than a mainlander could enter it. Only with the aid of Sea Witches can passage to and from the isles be formed, as well as between island settlement and island settlement.
The landmass of Pyandonea is that of dizzyingly vast mountain archipelagos overflowing with verdant jungle rainforest, from which mist and waterfalls pour down constantly. The seas around her a maze of kelp which grabs, entangles, and drowns unwary sailors and ships alike, or smashes them against the rocks... though it is only with the aid of these grasping kelps holding onto the underlying root bed of Pyandonea that it stays in one place at all. Sea beasts and water spirits prowl water and land, only adding to the danger. She is a land designed to keep people in, and out, with no passage between; and it took the Maormer much skill to escape her and turn her defences to their advantage.
Maormer settlements are often built in or around the remains of huge emperor crabs, whale carcasses, or otherwise slain titans of the deep. Maormeri ships hunt them, drive them against the shores, and harvest what meat they can; but there is often enough leftover food to support a population for the years necessary to build up a new port or town, and so some of the crew stay behind. Further inland are overgrown Aldmeri ruins, some still inhabited as strange cities that look indistinguishable from the abandoned ones from outside, only within the vines cut away and replaced with signs of civilization. Orgnum himself holds court and rules (when he is not at sea, which he is for most the of year) in one such overgrown city of ruins.
Shades of blue and white are the most popular architectural colours, just as they are most popular in fashion. White marble walls with blue shingles, deep blue sunshades spread between the whitened ribs of old krakens, sky blue tents in bustling markets. It is seen as representative and in honour of the sea; of both her waves and her crashing foam.
Despite the jungles and humidity, Pyandonea is still quite unlike the forests of Topal or the Niben. Unlike both of those it is much further from the equator, almost down to the southern ice sheets, and thus even without snowfall it can be devastatingly cold. Unprepared travellers can find themselves soaked in the mist and losing an entire limb to frostbite... if they are lucky.
BIOLOGY
Maormer are split into, very broadly, two categories. The majority of Maormer are milky white in skin and eye colour, with predominantly white, black, or grey hair. Their ears end with fin-like ridges, and they are able of safely consume salt water - their tongues have an adaptation to safely filter out salt from water, an ability that even remains for a while even after death and removal. Contrary to popular belief, they do not have gills or any special ability to breathe underwater. Finally, almost all possess a mouth of sharp teeth, specialized in tearing meat and breaking shells. So called 'leviathan' Maormer are a minority, making up perhaps a tenth of the overall population. Theirs is a bloodline that has been altered by powerful magicks - sorcery combining their ancestors with beasts of the sea. While most leviathan Maormer are descended of sea snake-hybrids, having faintly white scaled skin, fangs, gills, and springy bones that flow through water at terrifying speed this is not the case of all leviathans. Some have chitinous shells, others semi-translucent jellyfish skin, some even bearing tentacles and bioluminescent patterns. There are as many shapes of leviathan as there are fish in the sea. All are larger than their kin, though, all more at home at sea than land, and all both feared and respected by their fellows. Any captain worth their salt has a coterie of leviathans in their crew.
Maormer are naturally resistant to lightning, though fire and heat can be potentially debilitating - drying their skin out far faster and leaving longer lasting damage than it does to mainlanders.
Maormer possess the uncanny ability to 'blend' into the background and go unseen until they move, or make a noise, oftentimes to the shock of those who forgot they were even there to begin with. While the ability seems chameleonic it doesn’t actually alter the colour or texture of their skin, indeed, even a Maormer in full armor has this power. This ability is most obvious in mist and fog, where they can achieve something even surpassing invisibility.
Maormer are naturally attuned to find their balance on moving ground, be that on the deck of a ship or on the shores of their floating island-homeland of Pyandonea. When forced onto stationary land almost all seem to fall into a strange, staggering, swagger, and many suffer from so-called 'land sickness'.
CULTURE
Maormer society is organized more as a fleet than a traditional nation. Orgnum presides over the entire kingdom as both god and king. Beneath him are the many Sealords, occasionally referred to as ‘Coastal Princes’, each commanding over a fleet and clan, with many holding seaports and territory on Pyandonea itself. These Sealords are the admirals of their people. Beneath them are countless captains of near endless degrees of power. Some are near-rivals to Sealords, commanding small fleets, and ports, all across Maormer territory. Most command a single ship and crew, however. All Maormer, from the lowest sailor to the highest Sealord give a tribute of their take to those above them. All wealth trickles toward their king.
Maormeri society is traditionally a strict meritocracy. When a Sealord dies, their most powerful captain takes the role. When a captain dies, their first mate assumes command and is expected to assign the most capable Maormer under their command to their former position. Nepotism is a grave offence, a betrayal of those that serve under them.
Maormer often take slaves, as well as plunder, in their raids. Those who require too much work to keep are often killed or abandoned, with the fit potentially remaining with their new crew and captors for the rest of their lives. In dire straits, slaves are sacrificed to power Maormeri sorceries. It is not entirely unheard of for a slave to eventually earn their freedom, either remaining with the crew as a true member, or being left on the mainland once more.
A Maormer ship is nearly entirely self-sufficient, and can remain at sea indefinitely barring repair work. The sea provides adequate food and water for a Maormeri crew, and captured supplies can support whatever slaves the ship has.
Every ship keeps one or more Sea Witch, incredibly powerful mages able to command weather to devastating effect. Most Sea Witches are then further accompanied by a throng of apprentices, called Stormcallers.
Maormer trade with both Khajiit and Redguards as often as they prey on them, though some travel further afield. Even far-off Skyrim is at least partially known to them.
Almost every Maormer owns a sea serpent. When a new Maormer is born, the serpent who hatched nearest to the event is assigned to them. The two care and protect each other, forming a deep symbiotic bond. Though few sea serpents are afforded the food needed to grow to ship-crushing sizes, those who do make terrifying mounts for their bonded Maormer. Rider and beast attack as one, the intelligence of their Maormer given to their mount's terrifying strength in pure harmony.
Those Maormer who, by some means, lose their serpent are often paired again with likewise orphaned serpents - if such an opportunity is possible.
After a raid, the take is surprisingly often most distributed fairly and evenly amongst the crew. A captain or Sealord who denies his people their fair share is seen as betraying their service, and rarely long for this world.
Those Maormer unable or unwilling to live a life at sea will most often instead find themselves working as shipwrights or any number of other occupations in Pyandonea's ports. They are a small, but vital, minority.
While all Maormeri ships and crews are combat-able, not all are pirates and raiders. Some work as merchants, trading goods between Pyandonea and the broader fleet. Others make way as diplomats between the Sealords. Many more are simply 'civilian' ships; little different from a mainlander village save for the fact that they are always at sea and farm kelp and fish in place of grain and livestock.
For those Maormer unable to breathe underwater, drowning is a terrible fear. Many legends are of drowning Maormer being saved at the last moment from this fate, and their armor and clothing is designed to adapt as best it can to water and save them from drowning. Fabrics and leathers (mostly from porpoises and ornaugs) are kept resilient to water retention and wet-weight, boots are either designed with mostly uncovered feet or such that they can easily be shed, and the only metal broadly used is frog metal, or orgnium, a metal strong as steel but bearing incredibly buoyancy.
Mainlanders are often seen as clumsy, stumbling, and ill-suited to life at sea. The phrase 'groundwalker' is thus used as both a clear statement of fact but, also, often an insult to the clumsy or foolish. The irony that Maormer are just as clumsy on land is utterly lost on them - or, more likely, they simply believe it more important that one be at home at sea.
Treason and mutiny are one and the same, and both are rare indeed. The offence and mistreatment a captain must provide their crew with is incredible before the bonds of loyalty (and often blood ties too) are broken.
Song and music are major parts of Maormeri culture. From the rhythm keeping slave chants, to the sailors’ shanties, and and even the popular tunes of a pungi in a seaside town, it is hard to go long in Maormeri company without someone striking up a song or tune.
Maormer are far, far, less obsessed with breeding, pedigree, and lineage than the Altmer, or indeed most elven culture. In their eyes, their blood is only a very small part of what makes them better than mainlanders. Theirs is a sense of cultural superiority more so than racial, and those who integrate are often treated little differently than born Maormer - save perhaps for the occasional joke at their expense as they fail to find their sea legs. The endless forms a leviathan Maormer can take have almost enforced this view of accepted diversity amongst them.
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ahgasegotarmy116 · 11 months ago
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Falling Part Three | Jeon Jungkook
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Summary: Lana and Jae get closer and you ask Jimin for advice on how to deal with her while also trying to rationalize why Jungkook would be on earth Pairing: Angel f!reader x Fallen Angel Jungkook Word Count: 2.9k~ Warnings: Talks about doubting God and questioning why he let's bad things happen to people on earth as well as leaving heaven to join the devil. This is not meant to be harmful to any religion and I don't want to cause any doubt in God or your faith so if you feel that would affect you then please do not read. Nothing super in depth but still wanted to preface it with this. a/n: I finished this and immediately posted it after some rough editing but I wanted to get it out asap lol hope you guys like it!
Once Lana is done for the day I keep my head on a swivel trying to see if I can catch a glimpse of Jungkook anywhere. Is he a student? He has to be a student right? The only way he would materialize would be if the person he was assigned to has already turned 18. He couldn't possibly be a teacher because I would've noticed by now. Meaning he's highly likely to be in his Senior year just like Lana. There are so many kids here though, how am I going to figure out which students have turned 18 recently?
"Lana!" I hear her name being called from across the hall by that same boy from before. "Oh Jae! Are you all done for the day too?" she asks clearly wanting to see if they would be getting off at the same time for future reference. "Yeah I just finished, did you drive here?" he asks curious as well to see if she would need a ride home most days. "No, my mom dropped me off. I usually just hang around school for a bit and do some homework until she gets off work and comes to get me" she explains. 
"Oh okay, well if you want I could give you a ride?" he offers, clearly insinuating something else but it seems to be in a playful manner more than anything. "That's okay, she's already planning on picking me up today. Rain check?" she asks hopeful he won't feel bad about her shooting him down. 
"Sure. Would it be okay if I kept you company until she does?" he questions, she smiles and nods which seems to uplift his spirits again which is good in her mind. "Cool" he says and follows her lead to one of the table outside in the courtyard near the area her mom picks her up at. 
"So, how are you liking things so far?" she questions, hoping to find something that they can talk about for a while. "It was a pretty seamless transition thankfully. All of my credits transferred so I didn't have to worry about trying to make up for the ones that didn't" he answers. "That's great! Scrambling to make those up before graduation would've been really difficult" she cringes just thinking about the potential of being held back. 
"Plus the students here are really nice, and one girl in particular has caught my eye" he teases, messing with the strap on her bag, almost shy to admit. "Oh yeah? And who might that be?" she questions, catching me off guard. 'Where the heck did she learn how to flirt? And why is she already good at it?' I think to myself. 
"Oh, just this really smart, cute and funny girl that I met. I bumped into her on accident today though so I'm not really sure if she likes me or not" he continues. "Are you sure it was on accident?" she teases. 'What the heck Lana! Why aren't you the shy awkward girl I know you to be anymore?' I think to myself now slightly panicking. 'She must really like this boy so far if she's had a sudden change of character just to entertain his advances. This isn't good'.
After getting home her mom finally takes note of how differently she's acting. She calls out for her and Lana simply hums to show she's listening. "Did something happen at school today?" she asks, also a little worried about her. 'Thank God I'm not the only one' I chime in in my head. If this guy wasn't dressed like the definition of trouble I might not be this concerned but I can't help the slight panic I'm starting to feel.
"No, not really" she say and makes her way up to her room, with me following close behind. "Hey come back down when dinner is ready! No skipping meals today" he mom yells after her. "Yes mom" she responds and closes her door right after the words leave her mouth. 
Jae: Did you get home safe?
Lana: Yeah just walked in. Did you?
Jae: Yeah I did. What are your plans for the rest of the day?
Lana: Nothing really. I've got some homework to do but other than that I'm pretty much free. Why?
Jae: I wanted to see if you wanted to go for a drive
She pauses for a second and thinks about it. She's nervous but excited, that's for sure but I really really hope she'll say no. She knows that she isn't supposed to be hanging out with anyone, let alone a boy she just met after curfew. 'Please Lana, please but smart about this' I pray, not wanting to add another sin to her tally of not obeying the rules set out for her. 
Lana: Oh I don't know, I'm not supposed to be out late on a school night
'Yes Lana! Good girl!' I rejoice. Hopefully he won't push her too much, but I don't blame him for trying, Lana is a very pretty girl. 
Jae: It's probably because we don't know each other well too huh?
Lana: Yeah that too
Jae: It's okay I get it
Lana: But if you're free we could talk on the phone? That way we can get to know each other a bit better :)
Jae: Sure
*Jae would like to FaceTime*
"I said call, not FaceTime" she panics out loud while looking at herself in the mirror before pressing accept. 
"I said we could talk on the phone" she says frustrated at being caught off guard. "Are we not talking on the phone?" his voice resounds on loud since Lana hasn't put her Airpods in yet. "Well...yes" "Then what's the problem Pretty?" he says with a half smile, watching as her eyes widen at the pet name. 
"Why did you call me that?" she asks, biting her lip to keep a smile from cracking while occupying herself with finding her Airpods so her mom doesn't hear him. "Because you're pretty" he says with (not gonna lie) a gorgeous smile. Lana better be careful because I feel like this one is ready to break her heart. Once she finally finds them she puts them in and continues their conversation which I thankfully am still able to hear.
"Is it okay if I call you Pretty?" he surprisingly asks for permission. "As long and I'm the only one you're calling that then yeah I guess so" she says and I can feel her heart racing in anticipation to see what his response might be. "Who else would I call Pretty, Pretty? If I've got you I don't need anyone else" he says, his words sweet as honey warm up her skin. 
"You think you've got me?" she says raising a brow at him. 'Okay Lana, you've still got some fight in you' I'm glad to see she's not playing into his games too quickly. If I were her I would have this guy be putty in my hands before I let him call me anything. 'I- nope I'm not her. Yep, we're just gonna. Uh huh let's give her some privacy' I think to myself and quickly call Jimin to ask for advice. 
"Hey! Long time no see" he says when his hologram pops up. "Yeah sorry I've been really busy with Lana. A new boy just stepped in the scene and I'm not really sure what I should do to help protect her" I say and watch as he takes in the information and thinks on it for a second. "Lana has been a really good girl right? She's been respectful and honest and follows the rules, does well in school, all of that stuff right?" he asks listing off the things I've told him about before. 
"Yes, all of those are still true but I'm nervous. This Jae guy is a capital T for Trouble and I know I'm not supposed to judge but I have to discern on what exactly I'm supposed to do here. Plus her birthday is next month so hopefully I'll be materializing that day if things go according to God's plan" I say, reminding both him and myself of the sort of situation we're dealing with.
"You also have to remember she's still a teenager. Teenagers are supposed to grow up and mess up and get their hearts broken if life takes them down that path. It's perfectly normal for her to like a guy and for him to like her back. It's something new since she really hasn't shown any true interest in boys so I understand how you're feeling but just pray and watch over her. That's all you can really do until her birthday and hopefully by then you'll be able to actually help guide her if she's open to it" he says. 
Now that I think about it, I have been super on edge with her recently, even before Jae came around. Maybe I'm blowing things out of proportion. "Just watch, wait, and gather information about how their relationship grows and changes in these next few weeks so you're able to figure out a game plan before you materialize alright?" he finishes and I take it all into account. 
"Another weird thing happened today, my bracelet lit up when Lana and I were at school" I relay and I can see his face go from confused, to excited, to scared as well as a whole other range of emotions that I can't quite identify. "How could he even be there? Do you think he's materialized as someone's fallen angel? Are there even kids that are that bad at her school? I thought you said she was at a good one?" he asks, just as confused as I am.
"Doesn't mean there aren't a couple of bad eggs lost in the mix" I say, sitting down on Lana's bed to hopefully relax for a bit. "The only way that my bracelet would light up would be if he was in the same realm, correct?" I ask him to which he nods. "And when you fall you become a fallen angel, right?" to which he nods again. "So after all of these years there is still a possibility that he could've been assigned to be someone's fallen angel. Their bad influence so to say, right?" I finish. "Well yeah, but the odds of that are slim. Usually the angels who have fallen are left as slaves and can't come out of hell even if they tried" he explains. 
"Yeah but Jungkook's different, you and I both know that. He could've been taken under someones wing, for lack of a better term. They could've seen potential and drive in him. Plus his brother is there, he fell during the war between angels so he's been there since the very beginning. He could've found out that Jungkook had fallen and got him whatever job he wanted" I finish, showing Jimin the possibilities that could've caused our paths to cross again.  
Maybe all these years he's been leading people straight into the arms of Lucifer. I can't even imagine the horrors he's gone through or worse, taken part in or caused on his own. "Did you see him?" he asks the question that I knew he has been itching to ask. I shake my head and let it fall "I tried looking around but Lana had to get to class so I was stuck with her in there for an hour. When we left I kept on looking as best as I could to find him but he wasn't there". "Maybe try again tomorrow? You'll find him don't worry" Jimin reassures me and we end our call soon after that.
I check up on Lana's call and it seems like they haven't gotten up to too much mischief, just some harmless flirting here and there. "Lana! Dinner!" we both hear her mom yell. "Hey I have to go but I'll see you at school tomorrow okay?" she says, rushing to finish up so her mom doesn't get too suspicious. "Alright, goodnight Pretty" he says in a teasing tone that gives her butterflies in her stomach. "Goodnight Jae" she responds and quickly hangs up the phone before rushing downstairs. 
The next day at school Jae finds Lana in the same hallway they had met in and comes right up to her and swoops up her books again. "Hey!" she protests, trying to get them back just like yesterday. "Hello to you too Pretty" he says chuckling at her. "You really don't have to do that" she says crossing her arms awkwardly while they repeat the same steps they had done yesterday. "I know, but I want to. How did you sleep?" he questions glancing over at her while they continue on their journey. 
"I slept alright, what about you?" she asks looking at him and just now noticing the dark circles under his eyes. "I slept like a baby" he responds, clearly lying. "Are you sure? Because those bags under your eyes are telling a different story" she teases, trying not to prod but being open to the discussion. "Well for the amount of time that I did sleep, I slept like a baby" he chuckles and they continue on down the hallway.
Once they reach the classroom they do the same as before, hanging out right outside to talk when she notices a cut and a slight bruise on his cheekbone that she hadn't seen before since she had been walking on the opposite side of him. "Jae what happened?" she asks clearly concerned and on instinct grabbing his opposite cheek to keep him in place so she can inspect it. 
"It's nothing don't worry about it" he says taking her hand off his face gently and toying with her fingers. "It's clearly not nothing. Does it hurt?" she asks with her brows knitted together while she brings her other hand up and traces the area with a feather light touch. He flinches and hisses as if she's hurt him and she gets even more concerned before she realizes he's joking. "Don't do that! I'm worried about you" she says pushing on one of his shoulders a bit to which he hisses out in true pain. 
"Jae oh my gosh I'm so sorry. I-" she starts but stops when he places one of his hands on her cheek. "Don't worry about it, I'm fine" he says and makes purposeful eye contact with her, to which she decides to just look towards the floor after a second and nods, not asking any further. "Hey" he says and brings her chin back up to look at him again "Just trust me okay?" he asks and she just nods again in response. 
"I need words Pretty" he says using that pet name with her again, making her eyes widen a bit. "Okay" she agrees, "Okay what?" he says tilting his head at her in amusement, teasing to get a smile out of her. "Okay I trust you" she says, giving him that smile he was searching for. "There she is" he says, referring to her normal playful self. 
"Let's head inside okay?" he suggests and she grabs her books from him before he make moves to even push off of the wall he had been leaning against. He tries to reach out for them but she gives him a stern look telling him not to push his luck with her. "Alright alright fine" he says holding his hands up and decides to walk behind her when they walk into the classroom and follows her over to her desk. 
"Can I walk you to your next class?" he asks when she sits down and she nods in agreement but she shies away when he raises a brow at her. "Yes Jae I would love it if you walked me to class" she says and at that he gives her a half smile and runs a thumb over her cheek before he heads off to his seat. 
"My brain is total mush right now" Jae says as they finish up the lesson. "Oh come on it wasn't that bad" Lana laughs and shakes her head as they make their way over to her next class. "Hey Jae!" we all hear a voice say from behind. Even before his voice met my ears my bracelet lit up "Oh hey, give me a minute I'm just gonna walk Lana to her class" Jae says as they continue on down the hallway. "Okay, we'll be outside" he says and even though my head is telling me not to my heart has a mind of it's own making me turn to face him. 
The first thing my eyes land on is his bracelet that he seems to be fiddling with, him looking as confused as I was yesterday. No longer gold but it still sits on his wrist, beaten and tarnished so much so that it has turned into a dark matte black. Another reminder of how far he's fallen, as if his appearance and demeanor wasn't enough. 
He's dressed just like Jae, with piercings and those same burnt and twisted branches as well, his woven through other various tattoos on one of his arms of all shapes and sizes, a particular one catching my eye. He takes a look around to see if he could possibly catch sight of me but fallen angels can't see other angels until they too materialize. I can't help the few tears that fall from the shock of the state he's in especially when he heads back outside to a group of other guys dressed just like them. 
What are Jae and Jungkook involved in? And why for God's sake did he have to choose Lana?
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kyojurosprettygirl · 1 year ago
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ok so... Gyomei and gorgon! reader? (like medusa) she turns ppl to stone of they look at her but he's blind, so he's immune. reader is very lonely and when she meets Gyomei they're happy to finally talk to someone. Gyomei also gets some eyewear so she doesn't hurt anyone else as they be together. she'd wear a cloak or hijab to hide her snakes. as they walk together and the snakes on reader's head also likes gyomei Hhehvibdnvjfnf
a/n: I love the way you think!!! GOSH, i feel this is perfect for Gyomei (UvvvU) I rarely see anyone write for Gyomei, so I was pretty excited to write for him, but very nervous as well! Since, I don't feel I know enough of his character, and as far as im aware, hasn't been animated in action that much. I can really only write him based on what I know from his wiki and manga... Hope this atleast meets your expectations!! also, because of my lack of knowledge in Hijabs, I decided not to use that as a cover for her snakes, simply to be respectful, apolgies in advance!!
love casted in the stones.
Gyomei Himejima x Gorgon! Fem! reader
a man with tremendous faith, who never once doubted his gods plans for him, how peculiar, you think. he had every right to give up on religion, would a god really cast blindness upon their child? hell, you see and hear your own brother curse the gods for who they made you and him to be on the daily. but, he never thought of it as a set-back, rather, a small exchange.
in life, balance is an important part of it to upkeep. the same way life does to death, and darkness does to light. unbalance would bring chaos, something you learned to understand. it cannot always be day, but it cannot always be night. to him, losing one sense simply acted as a sacrifice, let the illness take you, or, let the illness take your sight. losing your sight isn't a curse, its not something you'd willingly live without, sure, but what good will cursing the gods out because of it do for you? besides, you can't get it back, so why dwell on it? why dwell on something you cannot change? It is a part of you, why not embrace it?
but oh, does it get lonely...
.
"furukawa." your tone is stern and harsh, a drastic difference from the soft honey your tone usually held. he stutters and closes his eyes, furrowing his brows he sighs. you gently remove his prayer beads from his hands and kneel next to him, you look up at him expectantly and he kneels next to you. hes embarrassed you caught him in such a state.
having lost faith isn't something unheard of, it happens almost every day, infact gorgons are known to be faithless beings by default, but, cursing the gods you swear you don't believe in is unheard of. gorgons had no reason to believe in the higher powers when, lets face it, if they existed, they wouldn't curse the souls they created for no apparent reason. gorgons are faithless as a means to respect the gods, not to detest them. they know gods are supposed to love every being they sculpted, lead them to abundance and fortune, not into the hidden parts of the earth to live the rest of their lives as mere folktale and legends. but alas, 'lost' faith still lingers. deep down, gorgons still believe. the reason why is subjective, 'to each their own', but they all hold their arms out in hope. hope that they'll hear their desperate cries to allow them to live with the others who walk on the planet.
most your kind, mistaken as demons, had been killed in what the last of your kind knows as 'The Great Extinction'. you can't blame the humans, it was in their instincts to survive.. ugly faces that had snakes for hair...ones that couldn't wait to bite and poison you...glowing silver eyes that turn you to stone while your still alive, feeling the very painful change your body was going through.. your kind truly was demonic, but you didn't choose to live that way. You were innocent souls that had been dealt the unfortunate, forced to hide away simply for being born. it was a horrible fate, but, 'everything happens for a reason'
"it's a wonder this temple is still standing," you pause and look at him. he nods, his eyes casted to the floor. you tap his cheek and offer him a gentle smile, one he returns. "speak to me, Kaito." you place his prayer beads down, and face him. he opens his mouth to speak, but sighs. "i can't find the words." his snakes sensed his sadness and awoke to try and comfort him, but he simply brushes them away gently and orders them to stop. they sit still on his head the way hair naturally would, and close their eyes to rest once again. "we're not going to exist soon. after you and i die, that's it." you wince subtly and look to the side.
kaito and his grandfather had taken you and your grandmother away from where your kind had hidden themselves for generations, a group of humans having found it and planned an attack that killed them all. 'they've gotten smarter' kaitos grandfather said. 'used mirrors to kill us!' your grandmother shouted, anger filled her soul. after many weeks of hiding, once your grandparents deemed it safe to go back to your old home, you went back. you spent a year burying statues of those you called friends and family, and rebuilt one single home to live in. you and kaito went as far to bury humans statues simply because 'it was the right thing to do.' your grandmother died angry, and kaitos grandfather had died depressed.
"and maybe it's for the better, kaito." his brows furrow, frustration evident in his face. "we're going to all die out and never experience the way life was mean't to be lived. all we know is that demons walk upon us and eat everyone they see-" you pinch his arm, "we are apart of those demons kaito. that's what the humans see us as. monsters. they won't accept us with open arms, just one more issue to deal with. two of us versus millions of them. " he grunts. "you shouldn't curse the gods who keep us alive and hidden." he gets up. "oh, you mean the ones who keep us alive to mourn everyone whos died. keep us alive to hide and only see the sun for one hour a day. is that what we live for? is that what we thank them for? for absolutely nothing?" you stare and him and grab his prayer beads, gently fixing them into the correct position in his hands. you take your own prayer beads out and hold them, closing your eyes. "protect us. it's all i ask of you." kaito prays the same as you and smiles.
you and kaito venture out during the night, deciding to find ways to blend in as you traveled. for about two hours into the night all seemed fine, but a demon had made their way to you both, mistaking you as humans. she growled as she jumped at you and kaito, you and him barley missing her attack, and you looked at kaito for a plan. he shrugged and you realized she didn't turn to stone. your eyes widen as you speak, "she's immune to us, she's a demon.." kaitos eyes widen and he runs to grab you. he helps you to your feet and commands you to run. in a state of panic, you do as told, and its only when you hear a humans agonizing scream when you realize he wasn't following. "Kaito!" you scream, he turns around to face you and he looks afraid. You reach your hand out and run to him, "Kaito!" you scream again. He reaches his hand out to you, and your three feet away when a blade finds it's way infront of you, cleanly beheading him. You gasp and open your mouth to scream, it's silent. its once his head falls to the floor when you kneel down and find it in you to scream. You hold his head close to your body and weep. You look up at the demon slayer, making eye contact, and you don't realize your mistake until his arms are stuck in place. "im sorry! im sorry! im sorry!" you frantically repeat. his eyes widen and he screams in pain, you don't look away as you watch him turn to stone; punishing yourself. you made that bed, now you lay in it.
you stayed on the floor holding kaitos head until sunrise.
once you stood up, you analyzed the landscape and came to the conclusion that he had ripped off the demons head with his bare hands, his hands still having blood on them, and had made eye contact with the first demon slayers partner; turning her to stone, evident in the way her body stayed in a fighting position. mistaking him for a demon, her partner beheaded him, which led to the events that followed. you gently placed kaitos head down and lifted his limp body to drag him onto a bed of flowers near by. once you did you placed his head next to him and let the last few tears out. you grabbed the demon slayers and placed them near his body, gently, and placed yours and kaitos prayer beads around their neck.
.
"this is fucking sick." sanemi says. tengen looks at kaitos body and then the two slayers statues. "how disturbing.." he sighs. Sanemi looks at tengen, "so, what do you think this is?" tengen crosses his arms and looks at the scene again. "a demon, 's the only explanation." sanemi rolls his eyes, "Yeah, no shit. but what kind. we need to have an idea of what we're dealing with. we were sent to investigate and all you can conlcude is 'demon!'" tengen grunts and shrugs, scratching his head. "we won't know until we face it. for now, its just a demon that has the ability to turn people to stone." sanemi kicks Kaitos body, "and this?" tengen, not being able to think of anything shrugs at sanemi. sanemi hums to himself, "it might have the ability to turn humans into gorgon like creatures, having them do its dirty work,i mean.." sanemi pauses to pick up kaitos head from his dead snakes and holds it up for tengen to see. "snakes" tengen says. "well he's not a demon, he was beheaded and his bodies here, so he could be an extension that won't die until the main body does." tengen says, too serious for his liking he continues. "unflashy way to die if you ask me." sanemi stares tengen down and tengen laughs. "let's take this back, we need the others opinions as well." they make their way back to the headquarters to have another pillar meeting.
you spent what felt like years hiding in the forests, but it was only a few months. you only ever snuck into villages during the night to take food and maintain your hygiene, laying low for the rest of the time unknowingly giving people more reason to think of you as a demon and keeping the demon slayer corps on their feet. no matter what, the only evidence they had to go off of was village peoples words. there was too many people confirming you existed, but not enough proof that you were actually there. after those two slayers; they hadn't seen any more of people turning to stone, just stolen food and a shadowed figure with snakes sticking out of their silhouette. you weren't a danger to them. 'for now' they said. The master had decided to send a final order on your matter, to keep an eye out for you and if you were seen to behead you. You were no longer being scouted for, nor investigated, so you used this as your chance to freely wander around the forest as pleased, allowing yourself to indulge in the lushness of the earth. Kaito would've liked all of this.
it was lonely for the longest time, you hadn't used your voice in months and the forest became your home. you walked in its paths as a lonely soul, having forgotten the sound of kaitos and your grandmothers voice, so there was nothing to hold onto in those dark moments, deciding to allow yourself to get hurt by demons that crossed your path and only running when you heard foreign footsteps or when it got too painful.
.
your heart pumped in your chest, 'is this really what im doing now?' you thought to yourself. the cold wind caressed your sweaty body, cooling you down after your face off with death. the wind was silent, but created soft sounds with the trees leaves near by. you found yourself walking to the singular wisteria tree in the area, it was the biggest you'd seen and it was absolutely gorgeous. your snakes had awoken and they stayed still, a silent way to ask for permission, you giggle and say yes, they can play. they nuzzle your face and you begin to cry, an overwhelming feeling taking over you. you felt heavy weight come off of you as your snakes "stood" to play in the wisteria flowers. you laughed to yourself and let wisteria envelop your figure; finding comfort in such a beautiful sight , completely forgetting exactly what you were running from...
Mitsuri abruplty stops her chase, causing Gyomei to stop with her. "Kanroji?" Gyomei asks. she looks over at you as your engulfed in wisteria, completely fine, she stutters a little before getting her sentence out, "she's completely engulfed in wisteria, she seems completely fine." she gasps when she sees you grab into the flowers and cry, "she's grabbing it even, it's doing nothing to her! are we sure she's a demon?" Gyomei hums, "it's the only valid explaination Kanroji, she must be more powerful than we thought if she can withstand the wisteria." Mitsuri shakes her head, "No, Himejima! theres no way she's a demon. No matter what, demons experience effects from the flowers, if she only hurt three people, she's weak enough for it to paralyze her!" Gyomei nods, "i see." he states. They stay there and they debate their next move. "we must find a way to take her to the master." he says, Mitsuri hums in agreement, "should we just.." she pauses, "how are we going to do that.." Gyomei thinks for a moment, hearing your laughter causes thin tears to cascade over his face, "it sounds so innocent, so full of life" he thinks. "are you okay Gyomei?" mitsuri asks, he nods, "it's just because of her laughter." mitsuri quietly lets an 'oh' escape her, she always forget's that the smallest things can make him cry. she looks over at you and she can hear it too, she wonders how you can be so happy and caught in the moment. "mitsuri?" she looks over at gyomei, "Yes?" He turns his heaed to the sound of her voice, "can you describe her to me?" she smiles, "ofcourse, gyomei!" she takes you in and begins to speak after a moment. "She has many really long black snakes on her head, like hair it seems..and they're playing in the wisteria. beautiful eyes, ones that glow in a way similar to the moon. other than that, she looks completely human, as far as I can tell. she's wearing a black kimono, with small detailings that match the color of her eyes." she stares at gyomei expectingly, and smiles. "thankyou mitsuri" he says. she hums fondly as a way to say your welcome, and goes back to looking at you. she and gyomei begin to walk towards you, trying to stay far enough so that you don't get scared and so that you don't harm them. you hear mitsuri sheathe her blade and your head snaps to her, her snakes quickly snapping back onto your head and closing their eyes, going back to their usual resting state. you step back and cover your eyes, holding your free arm out. "no!" you scream, voice hoarse from lack of usage. "please," you get on your knees, "if i.." you let out a shakey breath, "if we make eyecontact, you will turn to stone." your lips quiver, and gyomei hears the almost silent whimper you let out. mitsuri steps back and looks away, urging gyomei to follow suit, instead, he plants himself in place. mitsuri isn't afraid, she just wants to make you feel safe enough so that you'll allow her to take you to Ubuyashiki. "does it apply to those who are blind?" he asks, and you calm down at the softness in his voice. "i don't want to find out." you say, and you panic as he removes your hand from your eyes. you gasp and shut your eyes. "she has her eyes shut Himejima.." mitsuri states. he closes his eyes, "my eyes are closed, you can look at me." you open one day to look at him, and it's then when you realize how much bigger he is than when you first saw him. he unexpectedly opens his eyes, and you panic at first, noting how he doesn't move, but then you realize he has no pupils. "so it must not apply to the blind then." he says, tears escape your eyes, "i guess not.." you say. you indulge in the moment, and carefully place your hands on his face, giving him an out. he doesn't move. "you.." you begin, your voice wavering. "i can look you safely in the eyes." you exhale a laugh in disbeleif and smile. he smiles back, being able to hear your smile. "you can." mitsuri softly says, trying her hardest to not look you in the eyes, and suddenly, your no longer conscious.
.
your body lays infront of them in the shaded area of the garden as four demon slayers keep their blades pointed at your neck. the pillars talking among each other, some bickering about what they think you are, as they wait for the master to make his appearance. "we had it under control!" mitsuri states, the lower ranked demon slayer huffs. "didn't seem like it. the sun was coming up and we needed to get that demon to the master before the sun killed it." gyomei sighs, "you are mistaken, she's not a demon. the wisteria would have paralyzed her if she was" mitsuri nods and huffs. the kakushi near by hits the demon slayer in the head. "watch how you talk to the hashira!" you wake up and gasp as one of the blade inchs close to your neck. you catch yourself before you look up at the demon slayer and push your head down, causing the other blade to dig intself into your neck. letting out a yelp, it silences all the hashira. they quickly look above their heads to avoid making eyecontact and meet eyes with gyomei. He can't see you, but he can hear you well enough to know where you are and looks your way regardless. you keep your eyes locked on gyomei.
.
after a very long meeting,not everyone is fond of you. you are a danger, a small mistake will lead to bigger ends. but gyomei still insists that you aren't, explaining what he knows to his comrades, trying to get them to understand. once the meeting ends, and you apologize to the master for having turned two of his children to stone. he gives you his condolonces for losing your brother, and you decide to stay where you were and face the wall. you weren't demon, but you might as well have been one, atleast then they'd have a reason to get rid of you, atleast then they won't feel like they'll have to watch out for you for the rest of their time in the corps. you couldn't go to the villages, but you couldn't stay out in the forest, you were split. Ubuyashiki decided to have you be under Shinobu's care, since she seemed the most levelheaded in the situation. She agreed, as long as the master gave her time to prepare the butterfly girls and until she knew enough about you. he agreed.
gyomei sits next to you, to keep you company he says. and you both sit there for awhile. just enjoying each others presence. you hum a lullaby softly, and you both stay in silence until the end of it. once you stop, gyomei speaks up. "what is it you said you were?" he asks softly, trying to keep the peaceful atmosphere. "a gorgon" you say, and he hums. "i see." you snicker at that, "no you don't". and you cover your mouth, you had forgotten he wasn't your friend, it might be seen as rude. you open your mouth to apologize and he laughs. "i'll give you that one, that was hilarious!" he calms down and clears his throat. "it's not often that people joke with me, especially about my sight. they fear they'll hit a nerve if they do." you breathe out, "i just thought i did.." he hums and smiles. "stone breather, they said," you start, you hesitate, "do you like, breathe real stone?" he snickers. "i'll explain it to you, if you explain your eyes and hair to me." you giggle and shake his hand in a flimsy manner, "deal!" you say.
"are they just, staring at a wall?" Obanai says. Mitsuri shakes her head quickly, "no, they're falling in love!" he nods to her as a way to say 'okay, whatever you say' and she walks infront of Obanai. "just wait!" she perks up, "you should've seen them when we first found her!" she puts her hands on her cheeks and fondly smiles at the memory. Obanai shifts in place and changes the subject, them both walking away as they leave you and gyomei.
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pureamericanism · 7 months ago
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It's an almost banal truism that classic science fiction was largely a projection of the Frontier Experience - and, more broadly, the whole world-shaking events of the European Age of Discovery - onto an imagined outer space. Less frequently remarked is that the reverse is also true.
I grew up devouring Golden Age science fiction novels, and was a fervent believer in Mankind's Destiny Among The Stars. Well, the Space Age - like all the great dreams of thr 20th century - has turned out to be something of a damp squib, but I still want stories of fantastic voyages of exploration, adventure, science, discovery, and intrigue in a vast new world of far-flung outposts separated by titanic distances. So to scratch that itch, why not just...go back to the source?
If you want something like a story about an isolated asteroid mining colony, you can just read the memoirs of a surgeon at a Hudson Bay Company outpost! Why bother with Heinlein when you can just read the diaries of pioneer women, the tales of Yankee filibusters in Latin America, the authentic exploits of desert-island buccaneers, or the early adventures of the Portugese in the Indian Ocean? Do you want fraught tales of inteigue and war and high politics that extend to the farthest reaches of known space? A good book on any of the big 18th century wars for empire will satisfy. And can Star Trek remotely compare in imagination and excitement to the voyages of Cook and La Pérouse? "Strange new worlds, new life, and new civilizations?" Boy howdy, we got 'em! If you look at these things with fresh eyes, with the eyes of a science fiction fan rather than those of someone with access to an infinitide of pictures of them online, nothing could be more surprising than a dugong, a platypus, a redwood, a southern continent of solid ice.
All of this is really just an overly long preamble to my main point, though. Which is that I believe the story of Hernán Cortés, Montezuma, and the Conquest of Mexico to be possibly the greatest one ever told. The themes...bro, the themes! There is here a richness, a complexity and depth surpassing almost anything I can think of in legend or literature.
It is, of course, a science fictional First Contact story, in which two shockingly different civilizations who know nothing of each other suddenly find themselves facing each other down. And indeed, like any good First Contact story, one of the principal characters, La Malinche, is an interpreter! See how the resulting clash of civilizations eludes simple stereotyping - sure, it's easy to see the Spaniards as brash young interlopers into the sophisticated and urbane world of the Aztecs, whose capital was perhaps as much as an order of magnitude more populous than any city in Spain. But equally it is possible to see the Aztecs as provincials, isolated from a wider, older world that suddenly irrupts into their narrow one. Consider that Cortés supposedly got practical advice on political machinations and military strategy by - studying Caesar! Access to ancient wisdom penned by dead hands in far-off lands provides material aid to him.
Then there are the religious themes. It can be seen as a story about the triumph of Christianity, of the Church Triumphant, but what does it mean for a religion founded by a suffering martyr to become militarily triumphant? And what does it mean for thr religion of a suffering martyr to become triumphant over a religion of human sacrifice to the gods? This is a complex and multi-layered irony that spares no one. And consider the strange foreshadowing of the legend of Quetzelcoatl returning from over the sea. Shades of Frank Herbert, here, even (especially?) if the tale is a post-conquest invrntion.
And the role of technology in the tale. Yes, the steel and shot, the horses and hounds, the ships and sails were all powerful allies for the Spaniards, but these would not have sufficed without the smallpox virus - a reversal of Wells that still underlines the power of biology and of the very small even in the face of all our mastery over the brute world. But the conquest also would not have been possible without the alliance with the Tlaxcala and other local rivals and adversaries of the Aztecs. There are very pointed lessons in the social, political, and diplomatic sciences being demonstrated here. Some are obvious, and others very subtle - look at the ways these differing civilizations reacted under the extreme stress of this brutal war to see what I mean about the subtle ones.
I could go on, I could mention the strange aesthetic touches, such as the similarity in climates between the Valley of Mexico and inland Spain, and the parallels between Spain's role to Rome and Mexico's to Spain; or I could talk about the fascinatingly ambiguous characters of all the major players in this story, and the surprising arcs they go through; but not only am I already going on rather long, but I fear I may be making too light of what were, after all, real events, real events that resulted in piles of corpses, and whose tremendous human consequences are still felt deeply by tens of millions of people.
But I stand by my statement that it is one of the richest, profoundest stories I know of. The gods may be cruel, monstrously cruel, but they are artists, too.
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electricserenade · 7 months ago
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TUNE IN TO STATION 333.33
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
THIS STATION IS PLAYING SONGS FROM ALL OVER, INSPIRING YOU TO WRITE YOUR DEEPEST AND FILTHIEST, ANGSTIEST TO SMUTTIEST — FLUFFIEST TO DARKEST WORKS OF THE SUMMER, SPINNING THE FOLLOWING ALBUMS AND TRACKS:
COWBOY CARTER — Beyoncé | Unreal Unearth: Unheard — Hozier | Prelude to Ecstasy — The Last Dinner Party | SOS — SZA
If you gain inspiration from this station and its prompts, be sure to tag me in the work or like/reblog — thank you listeners
PROMPTS DOWN BELOW:
COWBOY CARTER — Beyoncé
"You're my love"
"I just hope you love yourself like that"
"I really hope the best for you"
"Born to be a protector" / "I will be your protector"
"I feel proud of who I am, because you need me"
"Inhalin' whiskey when you kiss my neck"
"They couldn't have me and they never will"
"Sometimes I hold you closer just to know you're real"
"Sometimes I take a day off just to turn you on"
"I don't like the way she's lookin' at you"
"You say change religions, now I spend sundays with you"
"Something 'bout those tears of yours"
"How does it feel to be adored?"
"Sunrise in the morning, you're all I need"
"Didn't know what I wanted 'til I saw your face"
"Don't know what you're doin' tonight"
"Been a while since I haven't tried to pull away"
"I'd go wherever you take me"
"Love you down to the bone"
"I hope you know that once I loved you"
"I just pray that we don't crash"
"When i'm long gone, you'll call my name"
"I stayed away from you too long"
"And I come home tomorrow"
"It's yours, baby, you can crash here, come here"
"Put on a show make it nasty"
"Baby, let me sink into your arms"
"Drink me 'til its done"
"I plan to steal your heart again"
"Ain't that the scary thing"
"Slip into my dreams every night"
"Who am I to judge, my baby?"
"Baby, I've been waitin' my whole life for you"
"This is the real you, huh"
"This is the real me, huh"
"And when I get up to walk, I wanna feel weak"
"I ain't goin' far"
"I'm gonna give you the best years of your life"
"Baby, I've been waitin' my whole life for you and I"
"Have mercy on me"
"I need to make you proud"
UNHEARD — Hozier
"How do you sleep so well?"
"You're too sweet for me"
"But you worry some, I know"
"Put my body to work"
"I wanna lose me"
"I wanna fade away with you"
"I wanna kill the lights"
"I don't need to know where we begin and end"
"I only need the working of my hands"
"Some part of me came alive the first time that you called me baby"
"C'mere to me, when was the last time?"
"How could you think, darlin', I'd scare so easily?"
"There's not one thing that I would change"
"If I could hold you for a minute"
"Heaven is not fit to house a love like you and I"
"I feel lighter than I have in so much time"
"If you need to, darling, lean your weight to me"
"Don't fall away from me"
"Let me put my lips to somethin'"
"Come and get some"
"Let me see the heat get to you"
"Wake up feeling like a millionare"
"I haven't felt it since then"
"We knew what our love was worth"
"We didn't get it right, but love, we did our best"
"I know we want this to go easy"
"When people say that something is forever either way it ends"
"As natural as another leg around you in the bed frame"
"Look, I wanna be loud, so loud, I'm talking seismic"
"I'm still glad I met you"
"I'd no choice but to love you"
"I thought you were like an angel to me"
"It ain't hate being alone" / "It ain't the empty home, baby" / "You know I'm good on my own"
"You know, it's more the being unknown"
"One bright morning changes all things"
"Your eyes open, at first a thousand miles away but turning, shoot a silver bullet point-blank range"
"Could this be how every day begins?"
"Like I lived my whole life before the first light"
"But after this I'm never gonna be the same and I am never going back again"
Prelude to Ecstasy — The Last Dinner Party
"Bite marks on my neck I could never say no"
"You don't wanna hurt me but I want you to"
"My darling, believe me, I was born to be with you"
"Ain't it fun to hold the world in your hands?"
"Do you want me or do you want control?"
"I can't win them all"
"Do you want me to care when you just disappear?"
"I wish I didn't want you"
"I will hold your hands to stop them from shaking"
"If it takes all night, I will be on your side"
"When you're lyin' here, I believe you love me"
"And what I'm feeling isn't lust, it's envy"
"I wish I knew you back when we were both small"
"Pray for me on your knees"
"Stay through the night I'd spend the mornings by your side"
"Cleanse my soul, make me whole"
"Dance in the morning glow"
"Hold me, we can't go back"
"Foolish thinking I could have you"
"Picture me in bed under your crucifix"
"I'd die for you, no questions asked"
"If anyone could kill me, it would probably be you"
"I wish that I had the guts the dignity to put up a fight"
"Oh anyone could kill me, and I'd never ever let it be you"
"'Cause we're a lot alike"
"I will fuck you like nothing matters"
"I'm putting all my bets on you"
"This is the only thing I know how to do"
SOS — SZA
"Damn right I'm the one"
"I can't let you finish"
"He's so needy"
"I just want what's mine"
"If I can't have you no one should"
"How'd I get here?"
"I get the sense that it's a lost cause"
"I did it all for love"
"I get the sense that you might really love her"
"I had to do it to you"
"The art of war, goddamnit, I'm drained"
"With a rush that feels like, we committin' a crime"
"You know where you belong"
"Wherever you are, whatever you need, don't call me"
"I lay awake if you're not around me"
"Help me understand how you speak your love language"
"You don't wanna be without me"
"I don't want to be alone"
"My, my, how the times change"
"Moments stolen taste better"
Oh, I need you, but it takes time"
"Loved me better when you tried less"
"I can't lose when I'm with you"
"I still wonder if you notice me"
"Don't care, just lay here beside me"
"I need your touch, not your scrutiny"
"You better learn how to face it"
"I make no exceptions"
"You can trust in me"
"Can you make me happy? Can you keep me happy?"
"I been thinkin' 'bout you, haven't got much sleep"
"Can you still come and get me?"
"I fuck him 'cause I really miss you"
"It's too late, I don't wanna lose what's left of you"
"I don't wanna see you with anyone but me"
"How am I supposed to let you go?"
"Only like myself when I'm with you"
"I got everything that I need, and I want more"
"Hate how you look at her 'cause you never saw me"
"I wish I was special"
"Is it bad that I want more?"
"Figure out how I should be loved"
"Is it too late for us?"
"Everything reminds me of us"
"Lead me, don't look back, it's all about you"
"It's what you say and how you do me"
"Who needs self-esteem anyway?"
"For you, I try"
"I can't shake this habit"
"I've been up, baby"
"Shitty of you to make me feel like this"
"You've been making me feel like I'm always in my mind"
"I don't mind who's watching"
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emberwings-last-wish · 9 days ago
Text
also on ao3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60348928
Joel wakes up, and he can’t breathe, which isn’t supposed to happen to gods.
The sleeping thing, he thinks, technically shouldn’t need to happen. He’s a god. Not, like, a religion type of god – no one really goes around worshiping him, and he doesn’t really have the massive reality-altering powers that some of the old deities do. He’s just strong, and immortal, and awesome, and handsome, and very tall, and strong, and he’s way off topic now. What was he thinking about before?
Right. Waking up.
Anyway, he probably could go without sleep. But there’s a part of him that doesn’t know how to not get tired. It’s an annoyingly mortal part. He knows that there’s, like, a 99% chance that he was a mortal once, before godhood, since that’s how this usually works. He doesn’t remember anything about his hypothetical mortality, but he guesses he used to be… tired. Tired enough that even a thousand years of godhood isn’t enough to keep him from sleeping every now and then.
The problem with sleeping, and the thing that he’s not certain should be happening even if he does sleep, is dreaming. Specifically, the kind of dream that he jolts up from with a cut-off shout, with a searing pain in his chest, with a rush of memories that are gone before he can sort through them.
Tonight was particularly bad, he thinks after a few minutes, when he can think about what just happened instead of tangentially rambling around the subject. He – he’s pretty sure he dreamed about dying. And other people dying. A lot of death, really. And he’s seen death, of course. He’s died a hundred times. But his chest is still seizing every now and then, and his heartbeat is much louder and faster than it should be, and there’s a very uncomfortable wetness in his eyes that is just embarrassing, really.
Honestly. Why would he cry about people dying? Respawn is a thing.
Stratos is beautiful, even at night. It’s a different kind of beauty than in the middle of the day, and Joel doesn’t like it as much – he prefers the brilliance, the way that sunlight highlights the gold and quartz, the way it blazes in the sky like a beacon. It’s more ethereal, under the moonlight; the gold is all but muted, blending eerily into the warped wood and terracotta, and the quartz has an almost ghostlike glow about it. Joel walks the floating islands, restless, and tries to put a name to what he’s feeling.
He finds himself stopping by Peril’s temple. The Sunflower Lady is not a god he’s ever met, so he’s not sure why he looks at the abstract statue inside and can picture her features so clearly. The nearly-full moon reflects around the temple in ways that he’s pretty sure light isn’t supposed to work.
“Sorry,” he says aloud, and then scrubs at his face in an attempt to bring himself back to his senses. Why is he apologizing to a statue for no reason?
He doesn’t feel like anything is watching him, as he walks on. He doesn’t know if that’s better or worse.
Being a god does have its perks. Wings spread behind Joel as he stops at the edge of Stratos, looking out over the quiet lands below. He doesn’t remember ever having to use the mechanical elytra many of the rulers employ, but he’s pretty sure it would be far inferior to having one’s own wings bound to soul and thought.
Flying usually makes him feel better. It doesn’t tonight. He doesn’t know why.
Joel circles toward Tumble Town on a whim, but as soon as its lights come into view, he pulls away sharply. It’s not because his inhumanly keen eyesight has caught the hunched figure of the sheriff sitting on the tavern steps, of course.
(Joel doesn’t want to think about why he really doesn’t want to talk to Jimmy, right now.)
He ends up in Animalia, which is weird. It’s not somewhere he goes often. Not that there’s anything wrong with it; it’s just… well, the Animalians are a bit freaky, even to a thousand-year-old god. And their mayor – well, she wears that mask presumably to make it a bit less weird that you’re talking to an anthropomorphic cat, but it just makes things worse. Why did she have to pick that particular mask? It’s horribly unsettling, and Joel doesn’t even know why because it’s just a fairly normal looking face, pale skin and pink hair and round eyes, but it has to be deeply creepy on an instinctive level because why else would he feel all twisty and weird and achy inside whenever he looked at it?
But he’s here, nonetheless, sitting at the edge of the fountain in the darkness before dawn, feeling all hollow and scooped-out inside for no good reason. And that’s how he is still, a few minutes later, when a door opens across the square and he looks up at none other than the startled mayor herself.
Joel’s chest aches for a moment when he sees her. He doesn’t know why. He doesn’t know why he’s here. He doesn’t know what he’s doing.
“Joel?” Lizzie says, and damn it, her voice is making him feel even weirder, why is this happening? “What are…”
“I don’t know,” he says, looking away. He wants… he wants her to leave, he wants her to stay, he wants to ask her something but he doesn’t know what. He hates this.
She crosses to the fountain, and sits beside him. He’s human size tonight, not even six feet tall, but she’s still very small next to him. It feels wrong in ways he doesn’t want to focus on.
“I had a bad dream,” she murmurs, into the quiet air. “I… don’t remember what it was about. Not exactly. But it was bad.”
Joel opens his mouth to say that gods don’t dream, but what came out is, “Yeah. Me too.”
“I knew you’d be here.” Lizzie says, hugging herself. Her voice is small, and oddly cracked along the edges. “I – I knew you’d be here, but I don’t know why.”
“Sorry,” Joel says. He feels stupid for saying it, and at the same time he knows it’s not enough. He doesn’t know what that means.
“It wasn’t your fault,” she murmurs, eyes oddly hazy.
Joel’s breath catches for a moment, on a wave of cresting guilt, and the words are pulled out of him without conscious thought. “It was,” he says, “you shouldn’t have died, I told you to do-”
“It wasn’t your fault,” she repeats dully. “Wasn’t even Scott’s fault. Just mine.”
The sane part of Joel’s brain is busy having an aneurysm, leaving whatever irrational dream-bit of Joel brain that is piloting to say, “Jimmy laughed, you know. And then he died. And Mumbo died. And you – I lost all of you, and no one seemed to care, and Jimmy laughed and then you were all dead-”
“No one ever cares,” Lizzie says, her words wobbly, and Joel knows she is crying even though he barely knows her, shouldn’t know that she always has that higher pitch to her voice whenever she is trying to pretend there aren’t tears on her cheeks. “I just – no one ever cares.”
“I cared,” Joel says, fierce, because for some reason nothing is more important right now than making sure that Lizzie knows that he mourned. “I blumin’ cared. I cared too much. You know how much it hurt knowing you were dead? That my best friend laughed and celebrated that you died, and then he died too, and my other friend I was only learning to trust died, and then I had to keep going?”
Lizzie is silent, for a long moment. “Who won?” she asks, dully. “I don’t remember.”
“Me neither,” Joel says quietly. “Wasn’t me.”
Another long silence, in which the weird dream bits of Joel’s consciousness start to fade again, and he slowly realizes just how insane their conversation had been. What were they even talking about? Dying? Winning? Jimmy dying, apparently, and Lizzie, and for some reason that was a really big deal despite both of them clearly being alive, and, you know, Joel really not caring that much?
“Um,” Lizzie finally says. She sounds a lot less upset, and a lot more awkward. “I. I don’t. Um. Sorry, I – I don’t know what that was? I think I’m still a bit asleep, actually.”
“Yeah,” Joel says. He doesn’t know how to respond to what is, apparently, a collective exhaustion-induced hallucination of past experiences that clearly never happened. “I, uh. Sorry for waking you up, or whatever.”
“Oh, you didn’t,” she says, “I just, woke up on my own. It was a dream. A dream, and I woke up.”
“Yeah,” he says again.
The sky is starting to lighten; dawn is coming. A light flickers on in a window a few buildings down. The city is starting to wake up. It’ll be full dawn by the time Joel makes it back to Stratos, even if he leaves right now.
Lizzie is staring out across the square again. Joel looks at her out of the corner of his eye, and can almost imagine that the calico fur and pointy ears aren’t there, that the pink yarn and smooth birch are real. The splashing of the fountain is a nice backdrop, he thinks, but crashing waves would fit much better.
Lizzie turns her head suddenly, eyes meeting his, and for a moment that feels like eternity, Joel swears all he can see is the ocean.
“I’d better go,” she says, breaking whatever bizarre spell has fallen over Joel. “Things to do, you know. Might even get another few minutes of sleep.”
“Okay,” he says, standing. His wings flare behind him, gold-tipped white feathers spreading to catch the faint breeze drifting through the square. Through the eyeholes of the mask, her blue eyes track the wings as if she’s surprised to see them.
(It’s mutual. For a moment, he was surprised he had them. Blumin’ heck, Joel hates when his stupid aren’t-supposed-to-exist dreams mess with his head.)
“Well, see you around,” he says, a little awkwardly, and leaps into the air.
Stratos is a blazing beacon of gold and white, when he gets back to it, as early morning sunlight lights up the eastern faces of the floating build. It’s just the way Joel likes it. So he’s not sure why it’s too blinding, for a moment. Too aggravating.
Joel growls a noise of frustration in the back of his throat, and forces himself to grow as he comes in for a landing. He straightens up eleven feet tall, like he should be, and surveys his magnificent home, and pretends things are fine. He’s good at that.
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