#AND INCONSISTENCIES AND BLIND SPOTS

[acornered]

If any other aspiring fantasy writer reading the comment above felt an incredible wave of despair and anxiety because they aren't a fucking expert in planetary science or plate tectonics, I'm here to gently remind you that GRRM wrote his series 30 yers ago and had no way of knowing millions of nerds would be nitpicking every detail of his worldbuiding. It's OK for the answer to just be " it's magic" in your fantasy story. I'm sure the above person didn't mean to disparage all fantasy writers/ it probably felt like punching up because GRRM is a rich, successful white man, but to insist that all worldbuilding has to have a logical scientific mechanic behind it or else it is bad is such a blatant misunderstanding of the genre! This is the kind of take that stalls peoples creative impulses because they are so wrapped up in making their world make sense to random internet pedants that they end up too anxious to ever actually write.

i think it must be important for writers to read an absolutely shit book every once in a while, that series of blog posts roasting game of thrones gave me a spark of worldbuilding joy long dormant

[bitchfitch]

I was bitching about being blind to my shrink today and I had to explain how I like. cope with garbage vision and function almost as well as someone who is sighted. (I have cataracts, one eye, and can't heal from surgery disease that makes removing the cataracts not worth it until they completely take out the good eye) specifically we discussed what goes into faking maintaining eye contact and managing to still be a good aim (good vision isn't what makes someone a good shot, the ability to get the gun/bow/ whatever pointed the way they want it to be is)

everything else is accomplished via shrimp posture and holding my phone/whatever I'm working on too close to my face.

[konigenblobbity]

Heartthrob to Heartbreaker

Hobie Brown x Civilian!F!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, slight angst, established relationship, hidden identity, slight stalking, pinning to bed, neck kisses

Summary: Hobie and you have been dating for 10 months but you haven’t met his second identity, and so when he begins to follow you around, and gift you flowers as Spider-Punk, you can’t help but be creeped out. At one point he gets a bit too close, forgetting that, to you, he was a stranger, causing you to panic when a media article paints you two as a couple… you worry what Hobie thinks

A/n: Inspired by this work by @tenaciousduckpoetry. Specifically their idea of:

“Flirtatious! Hobie who shamelessly flirts with you as Spider-Punk to the point where news articles are written about spider-punks mystery s/o”.

Enjoy meine Lieben!

You and Hobie had been dating for roughly 10 months, although he didn’t like labels he found his ways of making it clear that he still saw you as his girlfriend, and loved being your boyfriend. You’d spend most nights at his place, cuddled up in his arms while watching a movie, or lying on his lap reading a book while he played his guitar.

You loved spending all the time you could with your boyfriend, preferring to be in his home over anywhere else. Especially since recently you’ve been catching the attention of your city’s spider-punk. He’d often ‘bump into you’ during his missions, accidentally pay for your daily coffee before you even get to the cafe, you’d even catch him watching you through your windows when you were at work.

You tense when you hear a soft tap on your window, seeing as you were on the 10th story you knew exactly who it was. You turn your head and see a familiar face, hanging in a spiderweb hammock, with his head in his hands and looking at you.

You stand up and sigh, walking to the window and looking at him unimpressed. He just gives you an exaggerated wink and watches you, the soft roundness of the eyes of his mask, and the way they look into your own coming across as affectionate. As if he was looking at you in adoration.

You reach for the chain of the blind, closing it on his face. You can hear a soft huff from behind the glass, watching his shadow disappear from behind the blind. You smile and go to sit back down at your desk, hoping to get back to work.

Throughout the rest of the day you spot the spikes of his mask poking over windowsills, or can see remnants of his webs on the pillars outside the building. You try to ignore all of it and just focus on your work, seeing as it was an important project due in a few days.

When you finally leave the office the receptionist stops you, calling you over. “Mrs! Before you head out, someone dropped these off” you give her a look of confusion but she then holds up a bouquet of flowers, a variety of wildflowers, not one of them looking identical to another.

You couldn’t help but immediately think of Hobie, knowing he’d give you something so inconsistent. You give her a smile and grab the bouquet, admiring it. She then adds “The rather tall gentlemen looked quite similar to our spider-punk” she winks at you and you blush, your smile dropping at the reveal that it wasn’t from Hobie.

“O-oh?” You say and she just nods. You press your lips into a fine line, but then smile at her before leaving. “Thank you Julie” she smiles and then has you chuckling softly as she adds “Of course, more than happy to deliver your secret admirer’s gifts”

You walk out of the building, looking around. So sure you would see him on the walls of the building, or hanging off a street lamp. But he wasn’t there, you let out a sigh of relief and begin to walk to Hobie’s place.

You relaxed the more time that passed without seeing Spider-Punk. On the way home you pass by a restaurant with empty vases on the outdoor tables. You pop your head in and get permission from the owner to put the flowers in the vases.

You spend a few minutes separating the flowers into groups and placing them in the vases. You then let out a sigh, dusting your hands and walking off. You didn’t want to come home with flowers from a stranger, especially when you were going to your boyfriend’s apartment.

When you’re roughly 10 minutes away from Hobie’s place, you hear footsteps behind you, they’re quiet but get closer to you. Just when you turn your head to see who it was, Spider-Punk moves to stand in front of you. The shock of him being so close causes you to step back, pressing your body against the brick wall of a building.

His face is an inch from yours, causing you to blush a deep red as your eyes go wide. “Hey love” he says and you swear his tone was eerily familiar… but you brush it off and decide to focus on getting back to Hobie. “H-hi… sorry but I need to go.” You go to walk off but he places a hand on the wall, leaning over you, simultaneously blocking your path.

“Oh yeah?” He says and tilts his head, you watch as he eyes you up and down and your unease turns to anger and irritation. The way this stranger was looking at you had you uncomfortable. “Yeah. To my boyfriend” your tone was stern, and your expression dropped to indifference.

He lets out a chuckle which vibrates through your body, it felt teasing, almost mocking. He leans in closer, tilting his head slightly to whisper in your ear. “Boyfriend? Hm isn’t he a lucky man?” The way his breathe tickles the sensitive part of your neck through his mask had you blushing again. You place your hands against the wall behind you, trying to ground yourself.

Before you could respond there’s a flash sound next to you, turning your head you notice a few people having spotted the scene and taking photos. The flash coming from a paparazzi. Once you spot them you can hear a soft scoff leave Spider-Punk as he pulls back from your neck, turning to look at the paparazzi as well.

It’s then that a few people run up to the two of you, asking… no, shouting their questions at you and Spider Punk. Ranging from “Care to comment on your relationship?!” to “Spider-Punk, who’s this little bird?” You stand there, frozen in place, all the attention having you like a deer in headlights.

It’s when Spider-Punk leans towards the paparazzi and says “Well… this here is my little bird” that the people start shouting more questions, getting louder, but you ignore it as you look at the Spider with a incredulous expression. You scoff and then lean forward, so you’re talking directly into his ear “I’m not your bird. I’m taken asshole”

He turns his head towards you, and you swear you can sense a smirk under his mask, you just scowl at him and then shove him off you. It earns a few ‘ooo’s and you then stomp off, brows still furrowed as you continue to make your way to Hobie’s apartment.

Just as you’re around the corner from his place, your phone begins to buzz. You assume it’s a message from Hobie, asking where you are, but instead it’s from a friend. A, seemingly, hastily typed message in all caps, with an attached link.

You open the message and you stop in your tracks as you read it. ‘OMG I LOVE HOBIE BUT I DIDNT KNOW HE WAS AN OPTION?!?’ You open the link quickly, it led you to an article. You read the headline with shaking hands, causing the phone to shake as well… it caused your breath to catch in your throat.

‘Heartthrob turns to Heartbreaker; Spider-Punk spotted with Secret Sweetheart!’ You then see the photo of you and Spider-Punk from a few minutes ago. You notice how it was front page news, as you look at more news websites, and just see that photo and over again. Then reading how they quoted him calling you ‘His little bird’.

Your mind immediately thinks of Hobie… what was he thinking seeing this? You then start sprinting, your heart beat quickening as you get closer to Hobie’s apartment. You finally reach it, running up the stairs and going to open the door, fumbling with your keys from your nerves before finally getting it in the lock.

You swing the door open and throw off your shoes, running into his bedroom and spotting him lying on the bed. When you run in, breathing heavily, his eyes focus on you, placing his phone on the bed and standing up. “Oi, love what’s wrong? You alright?” He walks up to you, placing his hands on your shoulders.

You look at his phone on the bed and see he had the article open, you then can’t help as your eyes well up. You grab his hands in yours, holding them in front of you as you begin to ramble, trying to explain what happened, your breathing turning shaky.

“Hobie listen it’s not what it looks like! I-I don’t know him, I don’t know why he’s so obsessed with me! I swear I didn’t know he was going to do that… he was just following me after work! I swear Hobie!” Your words begin to break, soft sobs leaving you as you feel a few tears slide down your cheeks, blazing a trail for more to follow.

Your hands were shaking, you were looking into Hobie’s eyes, desperately trying to find whether he was angry, or felt betrayed, or wanted to break up with you. The thought of losing him because of some stranger had your mind reeling “please… you have to believe me” your voice getting weaker, more quiet.

Hobie’s face drops, turning serious, and appearing guilty. “Aw love… come’ere” he lets go of your hands, wrapping his arms around your body, pulling you tightly against his chest. “I believe you…” he rubs your back comfortingly, kissing your head as you begin to cry harder.

You close your eyes, crying into his chest, wrapping your arms around his torso, feeling safe in your boyfriend’s chest. “Take deep breaths for me yeah?” His voice was soft, trying to calm you with his words. You nod softly and then start to take deep breathes, feeling your heartbeat finally slow.

“There… that’s a good girl.” He had a soft smile on his face, looking down at you as if you were the most delicate but precious thing in the whole world. Once you’ve calmed down a bit, you pull your face out of his chest and look up at him. “Y-you’re not mad? You don’t want to break up with me?” Your questions left him speechless for a moment, his brows furrowing.

“God no love, I would never do something so daft” he brings a hand to your face, tucking a few stray hairs behind your ear with a smile. “B-but the article?” You go to say but he silences you with a soft kiss to the corner of your lips. He then pulls away and guides you to sit on the bed.

“Stay here. Lemme show you something.” You nod as you watch him step out of the room, when he comes back… well, he doesn’t come back. Instead Spider-Punk enters the room. Your eyes widen and you scoot back on the bed a little. “Hobie?!” You call out, trying to look behind the masked man.

He then raises his hands in the air “s’alright love…” you look back at him as he takes off his mask. Revealing the devilishly handsome man that is your boyfriend. Face piercings, naturally half-lidded eyes, signature smirk… the whole nine yards.

You sit up and then stand up off the bed. You raise a hand, placing it on his cheek, your eyes looking him up and down. “Y-you’re… Spider-Punk?” He nods his head, softly grasping your hand in his, turning his head to kiss your palm gently. “What’d I say eh? You’re my little bird” you feel relief rush through your body at his words.

After a bit, you began to feel slight agitation, pulling your hand away from his face and hitting his chest lightly. “You scared the hell out of me! I really thought some stranger was obsessed with me!” He chuckles when you hit him again, catching your wrists with his hands and pulling you against him again.

“Luckily… now you know it was just your boyfriend who’s obsessed with you” you froze slightly at his words, having never explicitly said he was your boyfriend. It made you blush slightly and he smiled, leaning down and kissing you softly. You melt against his plush lips, feeling how they seemed to mold with yours.

After a bit he pulls away and then furrows his eyebrows, “Where’d ya put my flowers?” You widen your eyes and give an awkward chuckle. “Well… in my defense. I didn’t know they were from you” at that he pulls away slightly, feigning a shocked expression. Clutching his chest with a hand, while putting on an exaggerated frown.

“You got rid of em? You cheeky girl!” He then lifts you up by your waist, throwing you onto his bed. You let out a soft yelp but chuckle as he climbs over you. Grabbing your wrists and pinning them above you on the bed. “I can’t believe you” he pouts and you can’t help but smile.

You scoff and then teasingly retort back “I can’t believe you thought it’d be a good idea to flirt and stalk me as Spider-Punk” He shrugs, smiling down at you. “To be fair… I thought you’da recognized me. The guitar, the voice, the way I knew you’re sensitive right… here” he leans into your neck, softly blowing on the same spot Spider-Punk - well… Hobie - did earlier. You softly shiver and he begins to kiss at your neck, you can feel the smirk on his lips.

“Now that my secrets out… I’d love to show ya all that Spider-Punk has t’offer”

[artigas]

I’m really happy that Black Sails is experiencing a bit of a renaissance, but (predictably) some of the takes I’m seeing online are so busted. It’s wild to me that anyone would complain about the fact that Anne Bonny kisses Jack after she’s developed this life-changing relationship with Max. It’s absolutely wild to see anyone roll their eyes or feel uncomfortable about the fact that Flint has sex with Miranda when he returns to her in season one or that Max is most likely a lesbian but actively has sex with men for pay and knows how to make that pleasurable. It’s crazy to me that some of the very audiences who claim to want queer representation feel so discomforted when they actually see the mess and seeming inconsistencies of queerness that they asked for.

The reality is that there are lesbians who have had (and will have!) meaningful, mutually-gratifying, and deeply sexual relationships with men. There are gay men who’ve enjoyed having sex with women, who are gay as the day is long and nevertheless feel sexually attracted to a woman or two and are nevertheless gay men, full stop. There are gay cis men who are happily married to trans women. There are femme dom tops and butch bottoms and there are mascs afab people who like femme boys. There are non-binary people and trans men who actively identify as lesbians. There are ace and aro people who enjoy thinking about and engaging with sex — sometimes in fiction and sometimes in real life. Queerness, in fiction and in reality, defies neat categorization. That is the beauty, power, and (perceived) unorthodoxy of queerness.

Now, I’ll say this — do I think the straight men behind Black Sails were actively thinking deeply and insightfully about the paradoxes and fuckery of queer identity when they wrote Black Sails? No! By their own admission, Steinberg and Levine have owned up to the fact that some of the writing of the show was really hinged on their own blind spots as people who are not (to my knowledge) members of the queer community. If I want to be generous, I think that the beautiful mess of Black Sails is that, in not feeling like experts enough to designate specific identity labels to any of their characters, the writers stumbled their way into more authentic representation of lived queer experience, which is to say that the notion that James Flint was actively thinking of himself as a gay man was anachronistic. As many lesbian archivists and theories have noted, the notion of a queer identity — as in, queerness is who you are, not what you do — was patently unthinkable for most cultures in the past. In other words, the idea that Anne Bonny operates in the eighteenth century as a lesbian and thus would not willingly engage in relationships with men is not only untrue of the series, but untrue of most recorded lesbian experiences in the real world. The notion that a lesbian would operate her entire life without engaging sexually or romantically with men, for instance, is a very new privilege that some of us are very lucky to enjoy, but it is not true for the vast majority of human history — hell, it’s not even true of our present world.

This is all to say that think that there’s something really funny about how we want queer characters to fit into neatly organized boxes. This isn’t a new problem, either. When the show was still airing, the BS fandom would get itself into tizzies about wether or not Flint is gay or bisexual, wether or not Anne Bonny is a lesbian, wether or not Silver is queer when his only canonical relationship is with Madi, etc etc. We’ve been having these discourses for years and I don’t know. I get that much of it is fueled by how badly some people want to see themselves represented in media, but . . . well. The siloing of queer characters and queer narratives into neat little boxes has never felt very authentic to me and nine times out of ten, it’s also just so damn boring.

[theartofcollapse]

Would you write about a f reader very clearly flirting with Casey (when they’re not busy ofc), like batting her lashes, twirling her hair around Casey, waving cutely when she walks by Casey etc. but Casey doesn’t realize she’s being flirted with for the past few weeks until one of her friends/colleagues brings it up? And maybe Casey realizes she doesn’t mind that reader is flirting with her

a/n: thank you for requesting! :) summary: read it above pairing: Casey Novak x female reader warnings: none word count: 1.3K

masterlist

Blind Spot - Casey Novak

Casey Novak wasn’t one to miss details. As a brilliant prosecutor, she prided herself on catching what others didn’t. Subtle inconsistencies in testimonies, a hidden motive buried beneath layers of deceit, or a loophole that could turn a case on its head. Yet, somehow, she’d missed what had been happening under her nose for weeks.

And what exactly had she missed? That you, Y/N, her colleague from the DA’s office, had been flirting with her relentlessly.

It started subtly enough. A smile here, a wave there. Casey didn’t think much of it at first. You were friendly with everyone. Besides, she was usually too buried in case files or prepping witnesses to notice the finer nuances of social interaction.

But you’d been persistent.

“Good morning, Casey,” you chirped one Monday morning as you passed her office, leaning against the doorframe.

Casey looked up briefly from her stack of paperwork, offering a polite nod. “Good morning, Y/N.”

You smiled at her, twirling a strand of your hair between your fingers. “Don’t work too hard. You might forget to have lunch.”

Casey blinked, briefly thrown by your tone, but nodded. “Noted. Thanks.”

And that was that, or so she thought.

The next few weeks followed the same pattern. Whenever you crossed paths, you made it a point to stop and chat. You’d bat your lashes, lean in just a little too close, and wave cutely whenever Casey walked by.

Casey chalked it up to your naturally bubbly personality. After all, you were friendly with everyone, weren’t you?

But to her colleagues, it was painfully obvious that your behavior around Casey was different. They exchanged knowing looks as you stood at her desk, pretending to ask about a file while twirling your pen between your fingers and giving her your undivided attention.

It all came to a head during a lunch break in the SVU precinct, when Olivia decided she couldn’t take it anymore.

“Casey,” she began, leaning back in her chair with a smirk, “are you really that oblivious?”

Casey, mid-bite of her sandwich, frowned. “Oblivious to what?”

“Y/N,” Olivia said, gesturing vaguely with her fork.

Casey’s frown deepened. “What about Y/N?”

“She’s been flirting with you for weeks,” Olivia said bluntly.

Casey blinked. “No, she hasn’t.”

Elliot, seated across the table, chuckled. “Oh, she absolutely has. The hair twirling? The lingering looks? The way she lights up whenever you’re around? It’s textbook.”

“She waved at me this morning,” Casey argued, as if that somehow disproved their theory.

“She waves at you like you hung the moon,” Olivia countered. “It’s adorable, really.”

Casey sat back in her chair, the realization dawning on her like a light bulb flickering to life. She replayed the past few weeks in her mind, the smiles, the compliments, the way you always seemed to find a reason to be near her.

“Huh,” she said finally.

Olivia raised an eyebrow. “Huh?”

“I guess I didn’t realize,” Casey admitted, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush.

Elliot smirked. “And how do you feel about it?”

Casey thought about it for a moment. She thought about the way your eyes lit up when you smiled at her, the way your laughter seemed to linger in the air, and the warm fluttering feeling in her chest whenever you stopped by her office.

“I don’t mind,” she said softly.

Olivia grinned. “That’s what I thought.”

The next time you stopped by Casey’s office, she saw you in a new light.

“Hey, Casey,” you said, leaning against the doorframe as usual.

“Y/N,” Casey said, setting down her pen and giving you her full attention.

You blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the way her eyes lingered on you.

“Can I help you with something?” Casey asked, her tone warm.

You hesitated. “I just wanted to say hi.”

Casey smiled. “Hi.”

For the first time, you felt like the ball was in her court. And judging by the glint in her eyes, Casey Novak was ready to play.

A few days later, you entered Casey’s office, a to-go coffee cup in each hand.

“Figured you’d need a caffeine boost,” you said with a sly grin, holding one cup out to her.

Casey looked up from her desk, her lips curving into a small smile. “What’s the catch?”

“No catch,” you replied innocently, twirling your hair with one finger. “Just being nice. Can’t I do something kind for my favorite ADA?”

Casey arched an eyebrow as she accepted the cup, her fingers brushing yours briefly. “Your favorite ADA? Flattery will get you nowhere, Y/N.”

“Good thing I’m not trying to go anywhere,” you shot back, winking as you straightened up. “Enjoy your coffee, Casey.”

As you turned to leave, Casey called out after you, “This better not be decaf!”

You paused in the hallway, glancing over your shoulder with a laugh. “Guess you’ll have to trust me.”

Later that week, you found yourself leaning over Casey’s desk, pointing at a case file she had spread out in front of her.

“You know, you could’ve just asked me to look this over instead of struggling with it,” you teased, resting your chin on your hand as you peered at her.

Casey gave you a sidelong glance, her lips twitching. “I wasn’t struggling.”

“Sure you weren’t,” you replied, your tone light and sing-song. “You were probably just too proud to admit you needed help.”

“I don’t need help,” Casey said, but the faint blush creeping up her neck betrayed her.

“Uh-huh,” you said, leaning in a little closer. “You’re cute when you’re stubborn, you know that?”

Casey’s eyes flicked to yours, and for a moment, there was a spark of something unspoken between you. But then she smirked, breaking the tension.

“And you’re insufferable when you’re smug,” she countered.

You laughed, standing up straight again. “Fair enough.”

The two of you ended up in the elevator together later that evening, the only ones left in the office.

“Late night for you too, huh?” you asked, leaning against the wall and watching Casey out of the corner of your eye.

“Part of the job,” Casey replied, her voice tired but still carrying that signature sharpness. “What about you?”

“Oh, I stayed behind just for the chance to ride the elevator with you,” you said dramatically, batting your lashes at her.

Casey snorted softly. “You really don’t turn it off, do you?”

“Turn what off?” you asked, feigning innocence.

“The charm,” she replied, glancing at you with an amused smile.

You tilted your head, pretending to think about it. “Why would I? It’s working, isn’t it?”

Casey rolled her eyes. “Good night, Y/N.”

“Good night, Casey,” you said with a cheeky wave as you stepped off the elevator. “Sweet dreams.”

One afternoon, you found yourself in the precinct’s lunchroom with Casey, both of you reaching for the last blueberry muffin at the same time.

You gasped, clutching your chest in mock horror. “Casey Novak, stealing my muffin? I never would’ve guessed.”

Casey raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by your theatrics. “Your muffin? I don’t see your name on it.”

“Fine,” you said, crossing your arms and tilting your head at her. “Rock, paper, scissors for it. Best of three.”

“Seriously?” Casey asked, but there was a glint of amusement in her eyes.

“Unless you’re scared you’ll lose,” you teased.

Casey sighed dramatically and held out her hand. “Fine. But when I win, I don’t want to hear any complaints.”

Moments later, you were laughing as you held the muffin triumphantly. “Looks like victory tastes like blueberries.”

Casey shook her head, unable to hide her smile. “You’re impossible.”

“But you love it,” you said breezily as you walked away, taking a bite of the muffin.

And if Casey lingered in the doorway watching you leave, well, that was her little secret.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Hey, same anon that talked about the school magic barrier. So you think the magical barrier sucks? Because in the comments someone mentioned that, for example, Chenya broke in multiple times

[Referencing this post!]

I wouldn’t say so? The students talk about the magical barrier as though it is strong and reliable (here’s an example from the beginning of book 6; Vil is surprised that there has been a breach):

It wouldn’t make sense for the barrier to be weak or sucky when NRC is such a prestigious school that houses many important people. (Why bother erecting a barrier at all if it can’t protect the people it’s supposed to??) I think there must be some alternate explanation, either with Chenya or with how the barrier operates 🤔 (since we don’t have a lot of canon on either).

For the Chenya thing, it could really be a case of us not fully understanding his UM or his strength. Maybe he just knows a weak spot in the barrier he uses to sneak in (he isn’t exactly a stranger to this kind of thing; he also took advantage of Mrs. Rosehearts’ blind spot and snuck Riddle out of his lessons). If we want to run with the “Crowley is orchestrating everything” theory, then those hypothetical weak spots could be intentionally created by him to let Chenya in to trigger Riddle’s OB? Or Maybe Chenya is way more powerful of a mage than we think he is. It could also be that his UM works in such a way that it allows him to bypass barriers. (Like, if his UM makes him intangible and the barrier somehow doesn’t keep out intangible things.) We don’t have anything to prove that’s how his UM works, but we also don’t have anything to disprove it. This could also be the case for the ghosts that show up at NRC for Ghost Marriage, who also lack physical bodies and could breach the barrier just fine.

I saw a comment on the original post suggesting that the barrier was ineffective because it couldn’t even keep out trespassers on Halloween. I think the barrier works slightly differently in that case?? Like, if there are already people allowed in (for the Halloween festivities on-campus) the barrier isn’t capable of booting them out—ie a door can keep a wild animal out, but once the wild animal is already inside your home, the door is useless at protecting you. It’s also possible that whoever regulates the barrier magic (probably Crowley?) didn’t bother to recast the barrier after lowering it for Halloween guests because “it’s too much trouble” and the activities will be lasting a few days anyway; they might be waiting until post-Halloween to slap up the barrier again. (I’d imagine this takes a lot of effort, and they’d probably be worn out just from overseeing the Halloween events anyway.) This may also be the case for the Tsums, who drop out of a hole over the sky of Ramshackle. The portal is immediately bypassing the barrier and opening up overhead, inside of the barrier already.

… Ooooor it could just be as simple as “the lore is inconsistent, please suspend your disbelief for these details” since some of these stories would not play out at all if the barrier actually worked as intended all the time. We wouldn’t have Ghost Marriage, Chenya visiting, the Tsums (which Crowley confirms were able to bypass the barrier despite him reinforcing it) or Halloween shenanigans if the barrier didn’t conveniently not work 😂 You could call the magical barrier a plot device, honestly.

[strawberryflavoredvenum]

Eyeless Jack hcs +ej x toby ship

BTW MY HEAD CANNONS FROM OTHER POSTS DO NOT CARRY OVER SO FORGIVE ANY INCONSISTENCIES IF YOU'VE SEEN OTHER ONES.

No ship:

🩵ej is pretty chill and gets along fine with everyone. If he has a problem he will keep it to himself mostly. This makes him well liked by most other proxies.

🩵he is a huge stoner. Almost annoyingly so. He makes it his personality sometimes. He spends a lot of time on the front porch. When proxies come home from missions. they will sit with him and talk about it/ vent. He never truly feels sober anymore. He's tried some harder stuff but not much.

🩵toby wanted to try and ej guided him through the process. Toby didn't end up liking it as much. He preferred the gummies while ej mostly Vaped.

🩵he has a soft spot for the kids in the house. It's not uncommon to catch him at a tea party with Sally. Tutu and all.

🩵this man cannot keep a piece of technology alive. His phone is cracked to hell even though it's new. Some of the screen has even come off. He gets viruses all the time trying to pirate movies on his laptop. Even his fitbit is destroyed. He doesn't even have a working charger most of the time.

🩵he has had to sew an elastic loop in the back of his pants so they stay up and fit with his tail. He loathes belts.

🩵he has schizophrenia. He is half blind and what little he can see, he would rather not.

🩵he wants snakes but toby wants rats and they argue about which one to get all the time. Toby said they can't have both because the rat would eventually see the snake eat and that would be messed up. Ej argues that it's the circle of life and that snakes were much cooler anyways.

🩵his ears are more like bat ears. He can hear very well and it makes up for his bad eyesight.

Ej x toby ship hcs:

(sorry I'm a little feral)

🩵ej isn't naturally a lovey dovey person and toby is super awkward. Neither of them are all that experienced. Their relationship mostly consists of staring at each other blankly.

🩵their relationship is not a secret but they don't do pda so it took the other proxies a LONG time to find out. When they find out they make a huge deal about it. Nina finding out was a disaster.

🩵they both borderline on ace. Overall they don't think about sex much. It isn't important to the relationship. Nina sometimes jokes that they are just besties at this point. They ignore any comments about their relationship made by nina

🩵ej didn't take care of his hygiene/ grooming/ clothes nearly as much until he and toby started dating. He doesn't want toby to think he's gross or anything. Toby would never think that though.

(This one is a little sadder than the rest)

🩵he spends half of his day worrying about toby and the other half smoking. Toby's mental health is a tad more severe and ej worries a lot. He has seen toby during a manic episode and it scared him so much. Jack makes sure to check up on Toby regularly without making it obvious to the other proxies. Toby doesn't seem as self aware as Jack.

🩵one time they were caught cuddling on the couch and watching a movie and were teased so badly that they don't even hold hands outside their rooms. They weren't all that into pda to begin with tbh.

🩵they both love caring for each other. Brushing each other's hair, wrapping their injuries from missions, running baths, picking out clothes. Mundane acts of care go a long way.

🩵oral hygiene is very important considering EJ is a cannibal. Ej brushes four times a day, has breath mints, ect. Toby won't kiss him if his breath smells like organs.

[love-and-deepspace-wiki]

Random Facts: The Protaganist

Apartment Tour, Part 2:

Okay, let's get into the floorplan. Because there are some major in-game details of her apartment that conflict with each other upon a closer inspection. The areas that have conflicting details will be marked "Inconsistent". The ones that do not will be marked "Consistent".

"Main Story" Floorplan: Consistent

Throughout the main story, we get various shots of the protaganist's apartment. The layout shown for the entryway, kitchen, and living room remained consistent in both the main story and Xavier's "Night of Warmth" memory. So no issues there. From those sources, here's my theorized floorplan for those areas:

The area marked in yellow hasn't been shown, so it remains a mystery. But this floorplan was constructed from the following in-game shots:

Bedroom: Inconsistent

"Main Story" Bedroom:

From chapter 1 of the main story onward, we are given the following shots of the protaganist's bedroom:

Building from those shots, we have the following theorized floorplan:

"Night of Warmth" Bedroom:

Here's where it gets weird. In Xavier's "Night of Warmth" memory, we get a view of the bedroom from the opposite wall. At first, not much is out of place. But as the view pans to the left, we're shown an adjacent hallway instead of a floor-to-ceiling window. Here are all the differences I spotted:

Fuzzy Rug: The fuzzy rug has both moved closer to the bed and also has expanded in length

Additional Rug: There's now a large, gray rug that covers a majority of the floor. This rug was absent from the "Main Story" bedroom depiction.

Floor-To-Ceiling Window: The floor-to-ceiling window shown in the main story (the one the protagonist sees the glowing red eye from) has been removed.

New Hallway: In place of the "Main Story" bedroom window, there is now an adjacent hallway

Clothing Rack: The freestanding clothing rack was originally placed beside the pink chair. But now, it has moved to just around the corner from the adjacent hallway.

Window?: While the "Main Story" bedroom window has been replaced, you can see what look like window blinds in the background of the area just past the adjacent hall.

So, here's the "Night of Warmth" theorized floorplan that reflects all of those differences:

The Balcony: Consistent

From the balcony, the "Night of Warmth" memory shows an unobstructed view of the city skyline. Behind Xavier, we can see the glass sliding door to the balcony. Through the glass, we see a glimpse of a white accordion lamp.

Because of the accordion lamp, I had initially thought the balcony could potentially be connected to the bedroom via the "Main Story" floor-to-ceiling window. But upon closer inspection, the "Main Story" window view shows residential-style buildings and not the city skyline shown from the balcony.

While I'm unsure exactly where it connects to the apartment, I've found no evidence of any conflicting details thus far. Here's the theorized balcony floorplan I constructed:

I might actually do a Part 3 post. I want to discuss the implications of all these windows, because they're really bugging me lol. But until then, I'd like to personally invite you to join me in ✨️ confused screaming ✨️

[ryoshiwaah]

chapter 7: MAMA awards

a/n: I know the mama awards were way after the release of armageddon but time is inconsistent just like me.

With the arrival of the mama awards the whole industry was a mix of excitement and determination. It was like graduation day for some and a total nightmare for others. 

One of these people was Y/N. Her biggest problem wasn't being able to remember the choreography or lyrics, but being face to face with a certain Korean girl. 

Her worries didn't fade at all since Danielle told her that she had talked to her manager to make sure Newjeans and aespa were sitting together, which of course they were. 

Bouncing her leg due to stress, Y/N couldn't shake off the anxiety that was eating her up from the inside; a reassuring hand made her come back to reality as it squeezed her knee. 

“It's going to be alright, you'll do amazing” The voice of her leader, Karina, was a whisper in the van carrying them, but not enough to actually calm her nerves. 

“The performance is the last of my worries, it's another thing…” 

“Minji?” The question caught the attention of Giselle who was sitting next to Karina. 

“Again with that name, I thought we wouldn't talk about her.”

“Gigi she—” 

“Hurt you? Yes! I don't get why you keep defending her actions. She wronged you deeply and you're still into her.” Giselle's annoyed and high pitched words reverberated into the vehicle, creating a temporary silence. 

Y/N expected a reaction like that, after that girls night they had in her room the members knew all about the accident and the aftermath of their “little” fight. Minji wasn't a saint, but Y/N wouldn't depict her as the villain of the story either. 

“You don't know her like I do. She wouldn't hurt me for no reason.”

“Then why didn't she text you again?”

“I left her on read”

“And?? You were best friends, she should know how to start a conversation with you.”

Y/N hated how right Giselle was, no matter how she tried to convince herself that Minji had been busy, the voice in the back of her head was well aware of the situation.

Lost in the conversation and drama the girls didn't notice they finally arrived at the destination.

As they posed for photos and asked interviewers’ questions, Y/N took the opportunity to scan the crowd of people near the red carpet. Many groups were getting out of their cars, she spotted some members of (G)I-DLE, and waved at Yuqi from afar who waved back smiling.

“Where are they?” Thought Y/N to herself, impatiently tapping her foot on the ground while scanning the crowd for the fifth time.

From left to right, her eyes moved across the unknown and known faces of her colleagues, until they landed on her.

“She’s gorgeous” muttered Y/N, the fondness evident in her tone and expression, her heart beating like crazy. She felt seventeen again, looking for Minji in the school cafeteria, but this time she couldn't go to her even if her brain was yelling to do so.

The moment ended when she was tapped on the shoulder and dragged to the main room by Minjeong, too eager to sit down.

“I called you 6 times, did you become deaf?”

“No, but I got blinded by Minji’s lethal face card”

Minjeong slapped the back of her head, urging her to stay silent — “Don’t say it too loudly, we’re surrounded by paparazzi and fans.” Indeed, the place was a mix of flashes, loud cheers and music.

“What’s a face card anyway?”

❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆❅❆

After the acceptance speech of their third award, aespa got back to their seats. Y/N was ready for Danielle to hit her shoulder while bouncing on her own chair, telling her how proud she was to have such an amazing and talented friend, but her hopes shattered when she saw that the infamous Kim Minji switched seats with Dani.

Keeping her poker face on, Y/N followed her members and went to sit back in her spot.

“Congratulations” Minji whispered, earning a nod as a response. Y/N didn’t hear her at all due to the shouting coming from the crowd, but she saw her lips moving. A reaction was needed to avoid drama and scandals.

Minji furrowed her eyebrows in disappointment, thinking Y/N was ignoring her on purpose.

Not wanting to give up the interaction, the girl had enough courage (for once) to reach for Y/N’s hand. Startled, the other quickly turned around with wide eyes making Minji laugh a bit.

“Congratulations”  — “Sorry for leaving you on read” They both talked at the same time, silencing themselves completely.

“Thank you” Spoke first the winner (conan gray reference?), her eyes fighting to not look at Minji’s lips.

“First, it's fine. Second, you deserved it, Supernova was so catchy Hyein couldn’t stop playing it" Minji took a deep breath, she was talking fast almost too fast. Was she nervous? Why would she be nervous? — "In the car, in the shower, while taking a walk. She’s obsessed with aespa, but mostly with you. It’s scary.”

“And are you not?”

“Obsessed with aespa?”

“With me, silly.”

“You wish” Said the older girl with a roll of her eyes, her heart beating faster at the teasing words. She didn’t notice how their hands were still intertwined until Y/N squeezed hers.

“Can’t argue with that.”

previous | masterlist | next

[ovwechoes]

Hi! I was wondering if you're willing to, write a drabble or fic or whatever you wish of Mauga with a reader who gets his name tattooed on them somewhere so that way 'He's always with them?"

If you're closed or anything feel free to ignore this request!!

Tattoo Drabble: Mauga x Reader (GN/SFW) Hiya! I'm happy to write this for you, it's an interesting idea and, as someone with multiple ones, I like thinking about how ovw characters would react to em - thank you for the ask and it's under the cut, enjoy c: Word count: 2805

Your thigh was covered for most of the day by your loose fitting joggers, concealing something you knew would shock the Samoan that was walking side by side to you. You had asked to meet somewhere private, because you had something to show him, with Maugaloa more than willing to oblige. It was something you were thankful for, but couldn't shake the anxiety of finding out what his response would be.

You had been with him for a while, and could gauge how his mood was based solely on his eyebrows and how furrowed they were in the moment. It would be an understatement to say you two were close, not just as partners but as people. You wanted something to show how much you value the man beside you, as a token of your gratitude for his undying love and support. With Maugaloa, though, he can be unpredictable, so how would he react when you finally showed him what was under the cling film concealing your thigh? How would he react to see flesh he consistently kissed, praised, and adorned on in private marked with something near and dear to him? You didn't know, and it pained you to be left in limbo like this.

And yet, here you were, almost at the agreed spot with Maugaloa. It was a corner of Talon HQ training grounds, somewhere he had told you time and time again that Sombra's cameras didn't reach this far, it was his own personal blind spot for the two of you. The closer you got to your designated space, the more your heart pounded in your chest. Your heartbeat was echoing throughout your skeleton, as though it was music alongside his own mechanical ones humming and whirring within his chest.

Maugaloa's voice was aired out by your anxiety - his idle chats about how training's going, how Siebren wouldn't stop talking to him about the fabric of the universe being soft like silk, and how Gabriel's testing his patience with each and every jab at his ego. You usually stayed attentive, stayed observant, and stayed in the moment with your partner. But the numbness travelling through your thigh was distracting you, as though it was reminding you of all your anxious thoughts. It was too late now though, and you had to rip the band aid off eventually and show him what you had done. It was inevitable. Bound to happen. You might as well take the moment by the horns and control it as much as you could.

“Hey, are you listening to me? What's going on with you?” Maugaloa stopped dead in your tracks; if he hadn't drawn you out of your thoughts so quickly, you would've walked head on into him. He stood, towering over you, watching you with curiosity and concern. It wasn't like you to be silent, stuck in your mind and focused on something other than his smooth words and slick voice. It struck him quickly, and he made it his new goal to pry out of you what's wrong.

“It's nothing, don't worry babe.” you replied sheepishly, with Maugaloa's brow arching the more your words slipped from your lips with anxiety coated into every syllable. It was obvious it wasn’t just nothing, and he intended to make the awkward silence speak for itself, refusing to move until you told him what was happening with you. Quickly, he crossed his arms in front of you, his personal way of telling you he's not satisfied with the answer. His gaze never left you, remaining above and on you, analysing any small inconsistency in your presence.

“Honestly, trust me, it's nothing important. Just thinking about what I want to show you, that's all. I'm alright, okay?” you spoke with more confidence, not wanting to completely crumble in front of the cameras nearby for eyes that didn't need to see them. He watched with less concern now, his shoulders dropping with ease, and coming back to your side. Maugaloa's nod of approval meant he was content with your answer now, letting you both continue to your spot before any more time was wasted.

And soon enough, you were there. Your beloved spot. But now, it felt dreaded. The time had come, and your confidence whilst in your appointment had shattered itself, overridden with concern and anxiety. You wished for time to stop there, to replay each and every scenario to pick the best outcome. You knew it had to be done, and there was no point in wasting time.

You watched carefully as Maugaloa sat to the side, his eyes leaving you momentarily as he steadied his muscular body onto the cold floor. He rarely felt the cold anymore, but even this spot made him shiver at times. It was endearing, and helped you distract yourself from your internal screams of anxiety. You watched as he motioned you to sit next to him, facing away for a moment. This was the time, you thought. Now or never, right?

When Maugaloa turned to face you again, your joggers were dropped, leaving you exposed to the cold. His expression became hot and heavy, feeling as though you were insinuating something more sultry with him. His mind went to dirty places, as though it was a pig seeing mud puddles again after a drought. He was always like this, excited over small gestures you did. You stood there, exposing yourself, watching as his eyes trailed over skin he had seen multiple times. Maugaloa knew your body better than you did, you swore at times, but it still took him some time to see the cling film bandaging that stuck to your skin, concealing something…

He finally noticed it, with his expression changing to curiosity. Maugaloa wasn't a stranger to tattoos, but he never expected you to be wearing something even he knew was typical of a freshly applied one. He knew the process as though it was eating, and was covered with tattoos. You often asked about them, listening to the stories behind each and every one, with your ears often ringing with his voice after his ramblings. But never, not once and not ever, had you suggested you'd like one. It was a well kept secret, and Maugaloa couldn't tell if he should be impressed or shocked that you didn't fold and tell him as soon as the idea of getting one crossed your mind.

Maugaloa studied your body, intending to decipher what was being covered by the layers of film. It was a game for him now, as he mentally began to decode the words left on your upper thigh. You watched his face twist and turn, he never had a good poker face, truly. This moment proved that, and you couldn't help but feel as though this was dragging on much longer than it needed to be.

“Maua, quit staring and just ask me what it is already!” your voice came out squeakier than you intended - you wanted to sound assertive, grab his attention quickly to kill the fear in your chest that was building up ever so slightly with each passing second. It was killing you, watching him try to figure this out, and he finally took the hint, giving into your pleas.

“Fine, do you have to ruin the fun?” he replied, in a playful tone that you weren't unfamiliar with. “What's under the wrap, ma’asoama?” his voice was more breathless, as though he was giving into you, letting go of the thrill of seeking answers himself. 

A sharp breath invaded your throat, as you bent over, unwrapped your tattoo, revealing the pet name you had constantly called your partner marked into your thigh. It was the most fitting place, really.

He loved your thighs, loved digging his teeth into them, touching them, making sure they were within his grasp at all times. Maugaloa's intentions weren't always sexual either - he just has an affinity for them. It's his kryptonite, if you will. So, you couldn't help yourself from getting the nickname ‘maua’ tattooed on you, in a Polynesian-styled font that the artist insisted on you getting. Your tattoo was done the traditional way, the way that Maugaloa preached about and always spoke highly of within his culture. You wanted to experience it too, and embrace him in every way possible. That included marking his favourite place on you with a name that often broke down his walls and let you creep into his heart. 

As soon as he processed what he was witnessing, his skin darkened at the cheeks, frozen as though he was a picture in a moment. He didn't move, his lips were apart, and it seemed as though he was holding his breath. Maugaloa's poker face was finally working, why did it have to work now? You desperately wanted to know what he thought, what he was feeling about it, if he approves of it. And yet, you couldn't tell just yet. The anticipation was killing you from the inside out, causing your legs to shake slightly.

Maugaloa found his hands quickly touching your thigh, carefully avoiding touching the sensitive area around and at your tattoo. He knew all too well how fast things can go downhill with them, and he wanted to preserve this one perfectly. Not once in his life did he think someone cared enough about him to get something like this tattooed on them, and he, for once in his life, was left speechless. Maugaloa would usually brush moments like this off with a snarky comment, a chuckle, a joke or flirtatious compliment. But this time, something about this time, changed that usual expectation. He was stunned.

“So… what do you think?” you tried to break the silence in a soft, humble way. You didn't want to be overbearing, but deep down your patience was running thin and you were begging for a way to seep yourself into his mind and find out what he was thinking. You loved the tattoo, and what's done was done. But that didn't mean that your anxiety wasn't valid. Your heart continued to race, his hands on your leg keeping them in place but still feeling the tremors run through your muscles.

Silence. Silence was all that was present now as he admired the work on your thigh. It was as though he was trying to kill you, give you a heart attack right now.

“Maua, come on. Tell me already.” you spoke, attempting again to pry any information out of the Samoan man sitting in front of you, not speaking and letting emptiness fill the air for the first time in your relationship. It was an uncomfortable feeling, and you felt yourself growing more desperate with each moment that passed by.

Before you could even stutter out your response, you felt his warm lips kiss at the area surrounding your tattoo - not close enough to be painful or cause any issues with the tattoo itself, but close enough to know that he was appreciating it. You felt yourself burn up, covering your lower face with your hand as you watched him plant kiss after kiss along the skin he so deeply enjoyed. You were used to this, but this moment felt different. As though the moment was marinated in passion and appreciation in a completely different way. You didn't know how to take it, and were left quiet as he continued kissing slowly, leaving trails of his DNA across your tender skin.

Maugaloa stopped below your tattoo, and brought his face back from your leg, watching as the tattoo glistened with plasma and ink. It was breath-taking for him, seeing the word ‘Maua’ on you now. He wanted to touch it, feel it's grooves on your skin, but knew he couldn't. And so, he knew he had to finally use his words. Find the right ones to explain his contentment with this commitment.

“It's beautiful…” was all he could find in his arsenal. Usually, a man like Maugaloa would have tons of things to say. But he genuinely was left helpless, his usual wittiness abandoning him in the face of something so genuinely sweet and loving. Even the thought itself was enough for him to appreciate you more, so seeing it in person, in this way, as a surprise was something he couldn't describe as anything more than beautiful. You watched as he didn't face you to compliment you, as though he was embarrassed to admit it out loud and show his weakness in front of you. Something about you always brought him to this point.

One of your hands found themselves in his hair now, rubbing at the roots and playing with the loose strands that were between your fingers. You loved to do this with him, and it was your way of showing you heard him and acknowledged what he said. You were still covering your face though, the compliment seemingly making you feel more hot inside. The cold that infected this spot was long gone, and your body felt as though it was burning up. All because of your partner. As per usual.

“Thank you, I wanted to get something to show you how much you mean to me, you know?” you spoke softly, with his hums of approval encouraging you to continue.

“I'm glad you like it, I even got it done the traditional Samoan way, the way you told me about…” your voice trailed off, realising how vulnerable this made you seem. You couldn't help it though, you wanted him to appreciate and see how far you were willing to go to make him apart of your life, apart of you. How much you appreciate his culture, his identity, his name, and his very being. You felt so much love for him, and the tattoo was the perfect way to show it off to him and anyone else looking there.

His hums of approval continued, as he enjoyed this moment longer than expected. He didn't respond, instead letting the air fill with love and admiration. Maugaloa was usually a man of words, and yet right now, he wanted nothing more but to sit back and enjoy the view left in front of him. You didn't mind, though, and encouraged him all the more as your fingers danced in his hair, petting him as he touched you more and more.

After some time, he finally wrapped it back up, realising that it might not be good for the tattoo to be exposed for such a long time to the air, to him, and to the cold. He wanted to preserve it as perfectly as possible, and would take care of it for you to get the best possible results from the healing process. His fingers lingered on the cling film, before fully concealing the tattoo again, covering up something he desperately, deep down wanted to keep observing and watching. It pained Maugaloa to do this, but it was for the best, and he appreciated being able to see it now rather than never. You enjoyed moments like this with him - it felt as though words could never be enough to describe the loving nature in his actions, his demeaner, his body language. You wanted to be soaked into his gaze, but knew he was looking out for you, keeping your tattoo safe. 

When he had finally finished putting the film back on, moving further back and letting his hands drop to his sides, you pulled your joggers up quickly. The cold hit you again like a brick, making you shiver and feel as though you were never warm to begin with. You steadied your body, made sure you were careful with sitting down next to him, and found your usual spot at his side. Nothing could've prepared you for such an affectionate display of emotions, but you were incredibly thankful for being able to witness it first hand. 

You found your head nestled on his shoulder quickly, the usual way you two would start to cuddle in your secret spot. It was endearing, and you wanted to be as close to him as possible. Warmth radiated from him, and not just with his body heat. You both sat there in silence, enjoying the thoughts running in your mind about the tattoo. Who knew something so simple would leave a usually chatty man mute?

“I bet you cried like a baby getting it though.” he spoke through chuckles, breaking your silence. You weren't going to admit to it, knowing that if you told him it was the most painful thing you've ever paid for, that he'd never let you live it down. Soon enough, the other taunts and jabs rolled in, one by one by one. Maugaloa was back, and you felt nothing but love for the man at your side, playing with your emotions to conceal his own.

[harrieatthemet]

Vulnerable

in which Harry’s sensitive and you’re completely undressed. 

He’d prefer if you stayed. 

It’s his ideal perception of comfort; the warmth oozing from the usually unoccupied side of his bed, a faded essence of vanilla perfume tied in with a bit of rose oil shampoo, the amenity of another body lethargically intertwined with his. 

Bouncing back and forth between one place to another, one city to the next; it’s inconsistent. And for a while, inconsistency worked. He had nestled himself comfortably into the odd routine of inconsistency. That’s what the bulk of his foundation in larger areas of life was built off of, and you were no exception. 

“Casual,” and he used the word exactly months ago, “let’s keep it casual.”

He knows what happens when he puts his hand to the flame; he gets burned. He’s learned that lesson the hard way once. And again after that, and once or twice more after that. Casual meant there wasn’t any real need for consistency. Keeping a relationship with you as casual as possible seemed like the best fit; one that made sense. 

At least, back then it did. All that coming and going, late night text messages, sporadic sleepovers after over indulging on wine and really shitty romantic comedies, it became consistent. 2 minute phone calls every now and then turned into one, sometimes two hours at least once a day. He’s caught himself checking his phone so that he doesn’t miss a text. He’s not used to consistent. This, however, is the type of consistency he’s becoming quite fond of. 

“5 more minutes,” he’s barely gotten his eyes open but his hands are awake, pulling you a little closer to him, “s’all we need, yeah? Just 5.. maybe 10.” 

There’s a content flutter purring in his chest when you hum in response, your body readjusting as he slinks an arm over your waist. He’s not ready to draw the blinds yet. There’s a straggling strip of outside light that's fighting it’s way through the gap in the drapes. It’s got to be well into the afternoon by now, but he doesn’t wanna check his phone to confirm. Instead he just pulls you closer; he’d rather stay here, like this, instead. 

“Mm,” the scruff from his chin brushes up against the back of your neck when you hum, “I wish I could.” 

“Don’t wish,” he giggles, “just do.”

He frowns when he feels you peel your body away, a small gust of cool air hitting his bare stomach when you tussle the sheets off and sit up. And he watches forlornly from his spot; admiring the way he his shirt hangs on you. 

“I can’t,” you’re whine is playful as you snatch your pants up from the floor, “I’ve got a thing.”

“A thing?”

“Mhm,” you assure, “a date thing.” 

It’s like a punch to the gut. The words coming out of your mouth put a bad taste in his. He doesn’t even wanna talk about it beyond this point. Ignorance really is bliss, but the curiosity will eat away at him if he doesn’t try to dig a little deeper. 

“Been seein’ him long?” He’s glad your back is to him because you can’t see the worry in his face. 

“Oh yeah,” that’s one more punch to the gut; he was hoping you’d say no, “we’re getting married on our date tonight.” 

“What??”

“Harry,” your laugh is muffled as you tug your shirt over your head, “m’fucking with you.” 

His shoulders drop a bit before he sits up in the bed. Watching you get dressed has always been one of those things he enjoyed; teasing you about outfit choices, making remarks about how he should take it all off again. 90% of the time he actually does end up taking everything off again. But this time just fucking sucks. You’re not getting dressed to go back to your place; you’re getting dressed to go back to someone else’s place. At least, that’s where his mind is taking him. 

You’ve still got him all over you; a little bit surely still lingering inside of you. This no-named competitor might get to touch you like he did just minutes ago. He wonders if he knows all your best spots, whisper in your ear, hold you while you sleep. Is he gonna kiss you the way you like, run fingers down your spine until you hum in content. Can this guy please you like he can? Does he know that the the little indent above your right knee is from when you fell off your bike as a kid? Does he know you sleep with two pillows and not one? You can’t sleep with one pillow; Harry always keeps an extra one freshly fluffed for you when you spend the night. Which, evidently enough, has become more frequent than not. 

“So deep in thought, eh?” You tease, “What’s going on up there?” 

He smirks briefly when you extend your pointer finger towards his head, swirling it around as though you’re mimicking his jumbled thoughts. He’s got no right to pry. After all, the groundwork of the terms regarding the dynamic between the two of you were his idea. God is he regretting that now. The idea of another man knowing you at all makes his stomach hurt, let alone knowing you the way he does. 

“Oh m’not,” he shrugs, idle hands twirling the loose sheet on his bed, “s’nothing.” 

“Going once.. going twice.. give me something, Har.” 

With your hands on your hips; expression playful, eyebrow cocked and breath baited in anticipation, he’s realizing that now might be better than ever to speak up. The answer to every unasked question is no, after all. 

His mind is racing with the worst of thoughts. He doesn’t want you to leave at all. Especially if you leave now to meet with the embrace of any other man except him. It’s not a possessive thing. Part of what makes him so feral and drawn to you is how open and genuine you are with the everyone you know. 

“This guy,” he trails, “I mean- like is this a date?”

“You writing a book or something?” You chuckle. 

“No.” 

He knows that was a joke. It wasn’t his intention to answer so seriously and he wishes so badly he could take that knee jerk reaction back. The look on your face falls and so does his heart; right into his fucking stomach. The energy of the once playful banter is ripped right out from beneath the both of you and now it’s just uncomfortable. 

“Yeah..” Your tone wanders as you look for your socks, “3rd one, I’m pretty sure. Why?”

There’s about an infinite amount of ways he could match that question. One of them being just high pitched screaming from frustration. Not even with any words, just endless agonizing groaning on a loop. Christ, the thought of it all just makes him want to melt into the mattress and become nothing. In theory he should’ve just kept his mouth shut and suffered in silence while he waited for the next time you texted or called. But he’s dug himself so deep playing 50 questions with you that there’s no point in retreating. He’s doubling down now; all or nothing. 

“Know him well?” He spits out. 

“Well enough.. still getting to know him a bit.” 

“S’good,” he feels it coming, the word vomit and he just can’t stop it from pooling on his tongue, “knows you like I know you?” 

If he was religious he’d start praying to God, any one of them, that you answer with a firm no. How could anyone know you like Harry knows you? He’s convinced that it isn’t possible. This morning, when he was wrapped up with you in a fresh set of linens sheets, he’d be so sure that nobody else had intimate access to you like he does; sexually and emotionally. Right now though, he’s starting to do something he seldom does; second guess himself. Maybe he was naive to be so sure before. 

“Not gonna put all my cards on the table just yet,” oh how badly he feels like dying when you talk all confused like that at him, “but yeah. I mean, I guess.” 

You think of how silly that question is. Why would he ask that? Everyone you know gets the same version of you; honest, open, and real easy going. You’re an open book and your relationships are all reflective of that. You are who you are, proudly and comfortably. So yes, of course he does. 

And all he’s thinking is how desperately he wants to rewind to 15 minutes ago when he wasn't the only naked person in the room. He just wants you to get back in bed; stay with him a little bit until he feels like the only one again. Turmoil and anger coincide with one another as it bubbles in his stomach, metastasizing before it becomes so unavoidable that he can feel it in the pit of his throat.

“Hm,” the sarcasm and bitterness in his tone is so goddamn thick, “lucky him than, yeah? Have fun, m’s real happy fo’ you.”

“Ok...” and he can tell by your voice that you’re offended, “I’d say thank you but that felt more like an insult.” 

Your jeans still aren’t buttoned and now that you’ve slid your shirt back on, he notices that your arms are folded over your chest as well. He doesn’t like the look on your face. It’s like you’re accusing him of something. And he really doesn’t like that the shirt you slept in, his shirt, is in a ball at the foot of his bed. 

“Can take it however y’want,” he answers flatly, “not sure how that’s my problem.” 

“Well what is your fucking problem?” 

You’ve never taken that tone with him before. In fact, he doesn’t think he’s ever seen you this cross before in general. He knows for sure you’ve never been this cross with him. It’s frustrating that you’re lagging in an attempt to catch up to the very obvious point he’s trying to make. The only easier route to take would be to flat out tell you how he’s completely hooked on you. He doesn’t want to do that though, not right now. 

What’s his problem? Are you genuinely that dense? Oblivious? His problem is you and how, against all odds, have become a crucial influence on whether or not he’s having a good day. His problem is if he doesn’t hear from you after a while, he gets grumpy. He hates waking up and rolling over to the left side of his bed made up and untouched. That’s where he wants you to be sleeping. All the time. 

His problem is you’re leaving to be with someone that isn't him.

“He knows you like I do?” he reiterates, “Fat fuckin chance.” 

“Harry you of all people know that I’m-”

“Shy?” he’s talking over you now because he’s completely lost all motor control between his mouth and his brain, “I know y’shy. Know that y’do tha’ little thing with y’lip, when you’re reading or real focused on something. Y’hum in the shower and, I never said this but it’s bloody fucking annoying sometimes ‘cos it’s off key. S’off key ‘n I almost like it.” 

You blinked; face flat and arms fallen to the side. All you could do was blink. And he wants to stop. God, he wants to stop talking so bad but this is your fault. You got him started so he has to keep going. 

“I know y’favorite pair of socks- those hideous fuzzy green ones with th’hole in ‘em.” 

He’s standing upright, now. How he got here, two feet planted on the ground with less distance between the two of you than two minutes ago; he’s not sure. There’s no specific expression on your face for him to pinpoint, so he considers edging himself a little closer towards where you’re standing. Until he’s right in front you, about to wave his white flag when he manages to break your blank stare and lock eyes

“Knows how y’like to be touched?” he’s brought his voice down a few octaves now, his index finger grazing over the undone button of your jeans, “knows.. how to get y’off? Like I do?” 

His eyelids are low, pupils blown as he peers down at you. A finger of his tucks away a stray piece of your hair before it embarks on a mindless journey; grazing your jaw before before he places it strategically under your chin. Then he lifts it. He’s giving you no choice but to look at him when he asks you. 

“Do y’wanna know him,” he sighs, “th’same way y’know me?”

[theambitiouswoman]

Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It involves being mindful of one's strengths and weaknesses, values, and beliefs, as well as how they influence one's interactions with others. It enables individuals to make more informed decisions, manage their emotions effectively, and cultivate meaningful relationships.

A few examples of people who may lack self-awareness:

1. Someone who consistently interrupts others during conversations and does not seem to realize that they are doing so.

2, A person who constantly blames others for their problems and failures without acknowledging their own role in these situations.

3. Someone who makes insensitive or inappropriate comments without realizing that they are offensive or hurtful to others.

4. A person who consistently overestimates their own abilities and underestimates the abilities of others, leading to conflict and tension in relationships.

5. Someone who consistently makes decisions based on their emotions without considering the facts or potential consequences.

6. A person who is unaware of their own biases or prejudices, which may lead them to treat others unfairly or with disrespect.

7. Someone who is unaware of their own mental or emotional state and does not seek help when needed, leading to negative outcomes in their personal or professional life.

Realizing that one is not self-aware can be challenging, as it requires a certain level of self-reflection and self-criticism. Some ways to be able to acknowledge this is the case:

1. Lack of feedback-seeking: If a person doesn't seek feedback from others, it may indicate that they're not open to learning about themselves or acknowledging their blind spots.

2. Difficulty with self-reflection: If a person has a hard time reflecting on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, it may indicate that they're not aware of how their actions impact themselves and others.

3. Struggle with relationships: If a person consistently has conflicts or misunderstandings with others, it may indicate that they're not aware of how their communication style or behavior affects those around them.

4. Ignoring or dismissing feedback: If a person receives feedback from others but dismisses it or becomes defensive, it may indicate that they're not open to learning about themselves and making changes.

5. Inconsistent behavior: If a person's actions don't align with their stated values or goals, it may indicate that they're not aware of their own motivations or priorities.

[theromanticscrooge]

Lord Boxman, the Lonely Tyrant of Boxmore

Note: I've been wanting to return to writing beefy character essays for awhile and I was finally able to start back up after rewatching O.K. K.O.

Lord Boxman started out wanting to build a robot army strong enough to defeat POINT. Look at his early interactions with his first sapient robot Mr. Logic. This was his original business partner; someone he 'invented' to help fill in what gaps and blind spots he might have. Someone he wanted active feedback and suggestions from. Boxman himself was a lot more open-minded, patient, and collaborative at this point in time. He immediately called Mr. Logic his 'best friend' and treated him with warm, open affection.

Mr. Logic advised Boxman that he shouldn't immediately jump at his goal because he didn't yet have the manpower or resources to pose a legitimate threat. Instead, Mr. Logic proposed using Boxman's inventing abilities to tweak and improve upon his current inventions, to sell these inventions to other villains, and build a villain supply chain store. With time, hard work, and concentrated efforts, Boxman would eventually have the resources and power to successfully launch an attack later. It was a big-picture, long-haul plan. The Mr. Logic-Boxman team led to building the main Boxmore company headquarters and establishing Boxman as a trusted robot minion supplier.

Unfortunately, Boxman isn't a big-picture man. He didn't stop to consider that heroes could also start up and maintain a hero supply chain. Suddenly, POINT wasn't an abstract, 'someday' goal-post anymore. The heroes were right in Boxman's backyard with the presence of Mr. Gar and the developing Lakewood Plaza Turbo. Boxman thought he had ample time to become an indomitable powerhouse, but if the heroes had the same advantage, he'd never be able to catch up and had to address that problem now. When Mr. Logic said to "ignore Lakewood Plaza," Boxman was too lost in himself to listen. He felt threatened and intimidated enough that it stoked his insecurities and anxieties.

When Mr. Logic ventured out to investigate Lakewood Plaza, it could be seen as someone talking to the "other" that their parent, friends, or whomever painted with broad strokes and demonized. Boxman told Mr. Logic that his role was to fill in the "logical inconsistencies" with his plans, but he never asked Mr. Logic what he wanted to do with his life. With Boxman, everything was tailored to realizing Boxman's dreams and ambitions. When Mr. Logic spoke to Mr. Gar, it was a partly about what the Plaza was for and what Mr. Gar hoped for the future with the other part inviting Mr. Logic to share his plans for the future; plans about and for himself, not just the sustainability of Boxmore.

After Mr. Logic had his perspective broadened and returned to Boxmore wanting something fundamentally different from Boxman's new "Destroy the Plaza!" direction, it was the straw that broke the proverbial camel's back. Boxman was already knee-deep in plans to stop this new existential threat; to have full control over his environment and his life. When Mr. Logic challenged Boxman's worldview, Boxman saw it as a challenge to him personally. Seriously considering Mr. Logic's arguments here meant that Boxman would have to self-reflect in a way he wasn't equipped to. So if Boxman had to shave down Mr. Logic's personhood to a black and white concept of "obstacle in my way" to safeguard his ego, that's what needed to be done.

GIF by zevzevarainai

The episode "Lad & Logic" is a fantastic launchpad to unpacking Boxman's screwed-up dynamic with his other children. His creator-robot minion dynamic is an allegory for an emotionally abusive parent that sees their children as extensions of themselves rather than full, autonomous beings with their own wants and desires. Mr. Logic was fully self-actualized and wanted something different than Boxman. Despite what he said out loud, Boxman knew that Mr. Logic was on even footing with him. Everything came down to power dynamics. So, when Boxman invented his next set of robots, he opted to be their "parent" because of the power imbalance he could exploit.

Shannon, Darrell, Raymond, and others strictly and obediently follow their father's wishes because they were deliberately conditioned and threatened to. Boxman pits them against each other to vie for his favor. The only TV they're allowed to watch at home are movies he carefully filmed to reinforce his "father knows best" agenda. It's similar to strict Christian parents banning their kids from watching certain shows or reading certain books because they may contain "undesirable" properties. Anything that encourages their child to question Christianity or endorses more critical thinking about their household values period is a threat to their authority and maintaining a "functional" household.

While Darrell, Shannon, and Raymond seem satisfied with their lives, unconditionally love their father, and gleefully attack the plaza, every time Boxman threatens them with the "furnace" or yells at them for failing, it's an exaggerated, blunt example of bad parenting. The "furnace" is a catch-all punishment for not being able to meet or exceed Boxman's expectations with anything and everything. He leaves some amount of ambiguity in his demands so that he can tug the proverbial leash every time he feels he needs to.

Granted, it's important to look at everything that led up to Lord Cowboy Darrell. Boxman's most egregious display of favoritism was when he built Boxman Jr. and refused to acknowledge how stung Darrell was. He kept pushing how much stronger, more competent, and better Boxman Jr. was overall. Generally, Darrell's respective relationships with Shannon and Raymond were strong enough to buffer against Boxman's picking favorites tactic. They'll fight each other for Dad's affection, but there was always an implicit understanding that they had each other's backs under normal circumstances. Jr. is different in that he had no significant relationship with his other siblings, only Boxman. And Boxman blatantly showered the newest addition with praise and affection the others never received.

Pushed to his limit, Darrell took matters into his own hands and staged an effective coup d'etat against Boxman. Through his disillusionment with his father, Darrell stepped up and became the focused, tight-knuckled business operator that Boxman could never be. Boxman tried to fill the mold that Mr. Logic helped him create and focus on appeasing his board of directors. But his all-consuming obsession with destroying the Plaza was always his true life's goal and work. This was such a core part of his character that he was miserable and hollow if he gave up on that goal. In contrast, Darrell can follow orders and do what needs to be done with whatever task he's given. The result of Lord Cowboy Darrell was one potential future of Darrell as a self-actualized villain without Boxman putting him down and actively demoralizing him.

After K.O. convinces Boxman to talk to Darrell and tell him he's proud of his achievements, it leads to the pivotal moment that Boxman couldn't give Mr. Logic. For once, Boxman looked at one of his kids and saw them as a separate, autonomous being rather than an extension of him. For that brief moment, he placed Darrell on equal footing. Darrell took over Boxmore partly out of spite but also out of an earnest interest in following in Boxman's footsteps. Without Boxman, he's a better Boxman; with Boxman, he's a co-conspirator that's as eager to destroy the Plaza as Boxman is.

GIF by the-green-sailor

Enter Professor Venomous. In stark contrast to Lord Boxman, Professor Venomous and Fink call themselves "boss" and "minion" respectively but it's really a father-daughter relationship. Venomous makes a point of bringing Fink along to important events or letting her tag along where relevant. He brings along what extras are needed to accommodate Fink whether it's a high chair, crayons, or even glorbs for a high-powered attack on some heroes. At their best, Venomous makes a point to talk to Fink on her level and she speaks very highly of what kind, affectionate gestures he does for her. Where Venomous trips up is discipline. Fink can do whatever she wants. Babysitters are run over by her reckless energy and disregard for other people that aren't Venomous. Any sign of a complaint or a tantrum is pacified with an expensive gift. When Venomous starts getting overwhelmed, the gifts replace all usual attempts at parenting or communication period.

After re-watching O.K. K.O. recently knowing that Professor Venomous was K.O.'s biological father from the jump, perhaps the "boss" and "minion" labels were Venomous' coping mechanism for knowing he abandoned one of his kids. It was easier to interact with and care for Fink as long as she was his "minion." That's a different enough relationship that he can compartmentalize it and distance it from what guilt or regrets he had from his past as Laser Blast.

When Boxman became business partners with Professor Venomous, it led to obvious shifts in his approach to parenting. After his night out with Venomous and Darrell and Shannon babysitting, he gave them T-shirts as rewards for their efforts. No pushes at playing favorites or nitpicking for once.

GIF by loser-jpg

With Professor Venomous in the picture, Boxman finally had the business partner he wanted and needed. While Mr. Logic's approach worked beautifully for kickstarting Boxmore, Boxman needed Venomous to cultivate it into exactly what he wanted vs what it was when tied to a board of directors. For a short time, Boxman and Venomous were building a blended family that was more successful together than separately. Boxman encouraged exercises and attempts towards Fink and Darrell getting along better. The Boxbots all received personalized upgrades from Venomous to improve and augment what weaponry or abilities they had. Fink now had access to what 'toys' Boxman could invent that were several grades above what Venomous could just buy. In short, Boxman dating Venomous led to him becoming a more proactive parent in a surprisingly organic way.

Venemous' intense self-destructive and literally destructive stint as Shadowy Venomous further elucidated what impact he had on Boxman. When Boxman had to step up as the responsible parent, the first problem he addressed with Venomous was how he'd been failing Fink recently with the "You missed Fink's recorder recital" comment. He was also emotionally strong enough to realize that Venomous was causing enough problems in the household that things had reached a boiling point and he had to leave. Breaking up would be emotionally devastating for him but Boxman was prioritizing the emotional well-being of his house and kids overall.

Even the devastating scene where Boxman leaves his kids to go off on an ambiguous "finding myself" quest was meaningful improvement on his part. Similarly to his confrontation with Lord Cowboy Darrell but with all of his kids this time, Boxman told them that they didn't need him. He was cutting the dependent and toxic grip on his apron strings. The Box kids are resilient and capable enough that they could carve out their own path.

There's a quote that Boxman brings up in another episode: "I'm a villain. I'm not a monster." In context, the quote was a punchline for a dark joke about Boxman potentially being a cannibal. Though, it interestingly applies when looking at Boxman's actions during his confrontations with Shadowy Venomous. Shadowy was the kind of monstrous villain that wanted mindless destruction and to see the world burn. Seeing the absolute lowest his partner could reach led to Boxman establishing what lines he wouldn't cross.

He wants to destroy the Plaza, not the world, and a pretty face isn't enough to convince him otherwise when he finds the self-assurance and confidence he needed. It's the pique of his character development as a father. While there is a lot more room for exploring this part of Boxman's character, there's enough substantial story here that it's an interesting look at a "bad dad" that was actively working on becoming better. Boxman and Venomous get back together later but only after Venomous proves that he's working through his bigger issues in a meaningful way with real, tangible results.

Over the last several years, there have been several stories tackling generational trauma that include parents realizing their failings and working on course-correcting with those failings. This has been a point of contention about a recurring to the point of tired stories in recent Pixar animated movies and the core of what made Everything, Everywhere, All at Once the powerhouse that it is. It's not too far of a reach to include Boxman as another one of these stories or even a decent starting place for digging into stories or characters dealing with generational trauma.

In Boxman's case, he could be seen as an example of an insecure parent that uses their role as a parent to reassure themselves in a constantly changing, unpredictable world. He only starts to get better when he starts changing and adapting to fit into that unpredictable world rather than trying to make his little corner of the world continue to conform to just him alone.

[barbsgirlfriend]

Velvet & Veneer Headcanons Pt. 3

(If you notice inconsistencies between posts it is because I use google translate. My first language isn’t English, it is Swedish. And I also changed some stuff)

Velvet✨✨

Basics

Full name

Velvet Lyric Mazzola

Alias

Vel (pretty much everyone), sis (Veneer)

Age & DOB

19 31/7/05

Gender & Pronouns

Cis Female She/her

Sexuality

Lesbian

Occupation

Singer & Performer

Religion

Agnostic

Appearance

Weight

68.95 kg (152 lbs)

Height

192 cm (6’3)

Body Shape

Rectangle

Body Type

Mesomorph

Skin Color

White

Face Shape

Circle

Hair

Long, wavy, healthy, bright green

Eyes

Round shaped, bright blue

Normal Apparel

Extravagant clothing, skirts, jean shorts, crop tops, makeup

Distinguishing features

Beauty mark above lip, scar on her left arm from childhood, dimples, five tattoos, and a big ahh forehead

Personality

Personality Type

ESTP-A (the entrepreneur)

Short Description

Velvet is extremely goal-orientated, and would put her friends or family down to reach her own goals. She strives for attention and love. Velvet might seem mean on the outside, but deep down she has a soft spot for her twin brother, Veneer. She’s extremely protective of her loved ones, but she isn’t the most reliable. Velvet barks more than she bites, but she can knock a bitch down.

Traits

Mean, ambitious, artistic, humorous, intelligent, controlling, protective, talented, somewhat toxic, and strong

Likes

Bubble baths, perfume, money, shopping, expensive clothes, praise, candles, mani pedis, the beach, purple crop tops, and roses

Dislikes

Trolls, being ignored, cheap perfumes, the feel of velvet fabrics 💀, her parents, being bossed around, balloons

Hobbies

Singing, dancing, songwriting, yoga, sketching makeup ideas, collecting vintage magazines, hairstyling, and zip lining

Fears

Thantophobia, atychiphobia, athazagoraphobia, cynophobia

Backstory

On July 31st, 2005, Velvet was born along with her younger twin brother. Her parents only wanted a boy, so she never got a lot of attention. She was cared for on and off by her parents and grandparents. Velvet made a strong connection with her grandmother, January, who was a famous singer in her days. Her grandmother was the main reason she wanted to start singing.

At the age of six, she was enrolled to a private primary school with her brother. Velvet became instantly popular for her famous grandmother and dentist parents. She became friends with almost everybody and loved her younger years. In year 3, her grandmother passed away. It was difficult on Velvet as she lost her main caretaker and friend.

At the start of secondary school, Velvet started becoming rebellious. She and Veneer would sneak out of the house to go to parties, smoke, etc. Eventually, the two were caught. As a punishment, they were given too many activities to worry about instead of sneaking off. She really started to despise her parents.

Velvet would skip her extracurriculars and use her free time to hangout with her friends or sleep. In year 12, she started dating. Velvet was dating the goalie for the school’s football team. However, he was a cunt. He was toxic and emotionally abusive towards Velvet.

This relationship was very draining for her. It made Velvet’s mental health really decline. One day, she got into a heated argument, and he hit her. Velvet went to protect herself, but Veneer jumped in and beat the fuck out of him. Safe to say, he never messed with her again.

Around that time, she started her singing career. Velvet would post her songs on SoundCloud, and got a few thousand followers! She felt consumed by the fame and wanted MORE. Velvet convinced her twin brother to start singing with her a bit after. They became insanely famous stupidly fast.

Velvet was blinded by her fame and money, making her toxic and controlling. It was so bad that she had to go to weekly therapy to control herself. She moved out of her parents house and into a beach home for her and Veneer.

She lives with Veneer right outside of Mount Rageous. she’s pretty happy now. She loves her life and how far she’s come.

Favorites & Least Favorites

Food

F: East Coast oysters. LF: scrambled eggs

Drink

F: raspberry lemonade. LF: Pepsi

Song

F: Agora Hills (Doja Cat). LF: 9 to 5 (Dolly Parton) she’s sick and tired of crimp singing it

Season

F: Summer. LF: winter

Place

F: her grandmother’s music hall. LF: childhood room

Color

F: purple. LF: red

Relationships

Mother: Veronica Mazzola/56/living

Father: Valentino Mazzola Jr./58/living

Brother: Veneer Mazzola/19/living

Other: Grandma/Mom’s Side/January Harmony/85/deceased, Grandpa/Dad’s Side/Valentino Mazzola Sr./92/deceased

Lover(s): Joey/20/living/ex, Orchid/18/living

Other

Birthplace: Mount Rageous

Residence: 5 miles out of Mount Rageous in a Beach House

Nationality: Mount Rageon

Ethnicity: Mount Rageon

Veneer

General

Full Name

Veneer Adagio Mazzola

Alias

Ven (almost everyone), bro (Velvet)

Age & DOB

19 31/7/05

Gender & Pronouns

Cis male He/him

Sexuality

Bisexual with pref for men

Occupation

Singer & Performer

Religion

Christian

Appearance

Weight

67.13 kg (148 lbs)

Height

183 cm (6’0)

Body Shape

Rectangle

Body type

Ectomorph

Skin Color

White

Face shape

Circle

Hair

Medium, wavy, soft, bright green

Eyes

Round and bright blue

Normal Apparel

Extravagant clothing, heels, jeans, t-shirts, tank tops, bracelets, earrings

Distinguishing features

Scar on upper lip, tooth gap, and three tattoos

Personality

Personality type

ESFJ-A (the consul)

Short Description

Veneer is extremely smart… like VERY smart. He’s insane with how good his intuition is and how quick he can find your biggest insecurities. Veneer is goal-orientated like his older twin sister, but he’s more secretive about it. To most, he only seems to be a flamboyant himbo. But in reality, Veneer is a caring but shady bitch.

Traits

Loud, judgy, overall friendly, happy-go-lucky, flamboyant, sensitive, protective, strong, talented, intelligent, mean

Likes

Pop music, gossip, anything gucci, the champagne toast scent from BaBW, beanies, vintage clothing, expensive jewelry, smell of gasoline

Dislikes

Cheap food, being bossed around, cigarettes, Velvet spraying perfume on him, being tickled, being alone, lavender scent, having no money

Hobbies

Dancing, singing, gardening, shopping, sketching fashion ideas, crocheting, acting, playing tennis, fishing

Fears

Atychiphobia, acrophobia, traumatophobia

Backstory

On July 31st, 2005, Veneer was born along with his older twin sister. Their parents only wanted a boy, so Veneer got the most attention growing up. He was spoiled to death by his parents, but it made him uncomfortable. Ever since he was a toddler, he was weirded out by his parents. However, there was an important figure in his life that made him not uncomfy: Valentino Mazzola Sr.

His grandfather supported his love of dance and acting, but also taught him “manly” things. Veneer was very close to his grandfather. He started attending a private primary school with his twin sister. Quickly, he became popular; not just by his family being famous. Veneer was an extremely nice kid in Primary School.

In middle school, Veneer started to experiment with who he was. He started painting his nails, got his ears pierced, and acted more feminine. But this angered his parents; they said that they didn’t want a gay child. With that, he started becoming very secretive. Veneer didn’t talk to certain people for months on end.

When he got to year 10, his grandfather past away. It was really hard on Veneer. On top of all the stressful activities he had to do; he had to suffer loss. This was when Velvet and Veneer started their singing career. (Ha that rhymed).

He felt so happy that people adored him; he felt even happier his sister was getting the attention she deserved. Due to getting famous, Veneer really stopped caring. He became himself and didn’t give two shits if his parents started complaining.

Veneer became an icon in Mount Rageous quickly. He is just as greedy with his fame as Velvet, but he can control himself more. He loves his life, his family, his boho chic home decorations, and his money.

Favorites & Least Favorites

Food

F: Lobster tail LF: coconut

Drink

F: Pipeline Punch Monster LF: sparkling water

Song

F: I’m Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman (Britney Spears) LF: Rude Boy (Rihanna)

Season

F: Fall LF: Winter

Place

F: the beach LF: elevators

Color

F: hot pink LF: bright yellow

Relationships

Mother: Veronica Mazzola/56/living

Father: Valentino Mazzola Jr./58/living

Sister: Velvet Mazzola/19/living

Other: grandma/Mom’s side/January Harmony/85/deceased, Grandpa/dad’s side/Valentino Mazzola Sr./92/deceased

Lover(s): Kid Ritz/19/living

Other

Birthplace: Mount Rageous

Residence: 5 miles out of Mount Rageous

Nationality: Mount Rageon

Ethnicity: Mount Rageon

(Thank you for reading this massive thing <3 )

[hayatheauthor]

Everything You Need To Know Before Editing Your Manuscript 

Finishing your manuscript is a big accomplishment, but that’s only the start of your writing journey. Now that you have a manuscript to work with it’s time to start your editing process and perfect your story. Editing might sound easy enough, but it involves a lot more than just correcting your SPAG.

If you’re a new author unsure about how to start editing your manuscript, here’s everything you need to know, from a self-published author. 

Self-Editing: The First Step 

Editing your own work can be both challenging and rewarding. When you take on the role of a self-editor, you gain a deeper understanding of your writing and the opportunity to refine it to its fullest potential. Self-editing helps ensure you cut down on noticeable mistakes before sending it out to an actual editor so that you can receive more productive feedback. 

I would honestly hate having to pay someone just for them to tell me ‘you misspelt xyz’ which is something I could have caught with a quick read-through. Once you’ve finished your manuscript here’s how you can start off with some self-editing: 

1. Take a Break Before You Start

After completing your initial draft, it's crucial to distance yourself from your work. Give it some time to breathe. This break can be a few days or even weeks, depending on your schedule. When you return to your manuscript, you'll approach it with a fresh perspective.

2. Read Your Manuscript Aloud

One of the most effective self-editing techniques is reading your work aloud. This process helps you identify awkward sentences, pacing issues, and grammatical errors that might go unnoticed when reading silently. It also allows you to hear the flow of your writing and the nuances of your character's voices.

3. Focus on SPAG (Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar)

Before delving into more complex edits, address SPAG issues. Look out for common mistakes such as typos, subject-verb agreement errors, and misused punctuation. Utilize grammar and spell-check tools, but don't rely solely on them.

4. Assess Overall Structure and Flow

Consider the broader structure of your manuscript. Does the plot progression make sense? Are there any plot holes or inconsistencies? Verify that your story flows smoothly from beginning to end. Ensure that transitions between scenes and chapters are seamless.

5. Dive into Character Development

Characters are the heart of your story. Analyze each character's arc, motivations, and growth throughout the narrative. Ensure that their actions and dialogue are consistent with their personalities and the story's themes.

6. Refine Your Writing Style

Pay attention to your writing style and voice. Is it consistent throughout the manuscript? Make sure your unique voice shines through, and refine your prose to eliminate unnecessary repetition or verbosity.

7. Trim Excessively Long Sentences

Long, convoluted sentences can confuse readers and disrupt the flow of your narrative. Identify and break down lengthy sentences into more manageable segments.

8. Seek Feedback

Consider sharing your work with beta readers or critique partners at this stage. Fresh perspectives can uncover blind spots and provide valuable insights for improvement.

Remember that self-editing is an iterative process. After completing these initial rounds of edits, repeat the process as necessary until you're satisfied with the manuscript's quality

Types of Editing

When editing their manuscript authors often direct their focus to the way things are written and then call it a day. However, SPAG corrections are only the start of your editing process. Unsure of other ways to better your manuscript? Here are some types of editing I think every author should consider when self-editing: 

SPAG Editing (Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar)

SPAG editing, often considered the foundation of all editing, involves meticulously combing through your manuscript to correct spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. This stage is essential for ensuring the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

Tips for Effective SPAG Editing

Use Spell-Checkers Wisely: While spell-check tools can catch many errors, they're not foolproof. Pay close attention to context; for instance, "their" and "there" are both valid words but have distinct meanings.

Proofread Carefully: Rely on your eyes and proofread your work systematically. Reading backward, from the end to the beginning, can help you catch spelling errors.

Punctuation Matters: Proper punctuation enhances clarity. Study punctuation rules, including the use of commas, semicolons, and quotation marks.

Avoid Homophone Confusion: Homophones, such as "your" and "you're" or "its" and "it's," can trip up even experienced writers. Double-check these tricky pairs.

Consistency is Key: Be consistent in your use of tense, style, and formatting throughout your manuscript.

Consider a Style Guide: Depending on your project, adhere to a specific style guide like AP Style, Chicago Manual of Style, or your publisher's guidelines.

Line Editing

Line editing is where the magic of storytelling truly begins to shine. This stage of editing goes beyond correcting surface-level errors and focuses on enhancing the overall writing style, clarity, and impact of your prose.

Tips for Effective Line Editing

Sentence Structure: Evaluate sentence length and structure. Vary sentence lengths to maintain reader interest. Look for run-on sentences and fragments.

Word Choice: Opt for strong, precise verbs and nouns. Eliminate unnecessary adverbs and adjectives. Avoid clichés and overused expressions.

Consistency in Tone: Ensure the tone of your writing remains consistent throughout the manuscript. Be aware of shifts in tone that may disrupt the reader's experience.

Show, Don't Tell: Replace telling phrases with descriptive scenes and actions to immerse readers in your story. For example, instead of saying "She was nervous," show her trembling hands or racing heart.

Dialogue Polishing: Make sure your characters' dialogue sounds authentic and serves the story. Remove redundancies and refine conversations to convey subtext effectively.

Eliminate Repetition: Identify and eliminate unnecessary repetition, both within sentences and across paragraphs.

Read for Rhythm: Pay attention to the rhythm of your writing. Read your sentences aloud to ensure they flow smoothly and have a pleasing cadence.

Example: Line Editing in Action

Before: "He walked slowly into the dark room, and it was filled with an eerie silence."

After Line Editing: "He tiptoed into the dark room, which echoed with an eerie silence."

Line editing transforms a plain sentence into a more evocative and engaging one.

Plot and Structure Editing

Plot and structure editing is where the big picture of your manuscript comes into focus. It involves assessing the overall narrative flow, character arcs, and thematic coherence of your story. This stage ensures that your readers will be captivated by your tale from beginning to end.

Tips for Effective Plot and Structure Editing

Plot Evaluation: Review your plot to identify any inconsistencies, gaps, or unresolved subplots. Ensure that your story has a clear and engaging trajectory.

Character Arcs: Analyze the development of your characters. Verify that they experience growth, change, or transformation throughout the story. Characters should face challenges and evolve as a result.

Pacing: Assess the pacing of your narrative. Balance action scenes with moments of reflection. Avoid overly slow or rushed sections that may disengage readers.

Transitions: Ensure smooth transitions between scenes and chapters. Use transitional elements like hooks, cliffhangers, or thematic connections to maintain reader interest.

Foreshadowing: Check for effective foreshadowing to create anticipation and intrigue. Ensure that events and revelations are set up in advance to make them more satisfying for readers.

Climax and Resolution: The climax should deliver on the story's promises and conflicts. The resolution should tie up loose ends while leaving room for reader interpretation.

Character Development Editing

Character development editing is the key to creating characters that readers will connect with, empathize with, and remember long after they've finished your book. This type of editing focuses on making your characters three-dimensional and integral to your story.

Tips for Effective Character Development Editing

Character Profiles: Create detailed character profiles that include physical attributes, personality traits, backgrounds, motivations, and flaws. Refer to these profiles as you edit to ensure consistency.

Character Arcs: Analyze each character's journey throughout the story. Ensure that they experience growth, change, or development in response to the plot's events.

Dialogue Authenticity: Pay attention to character dialogue. Each character should have a distinct voice and speaking style that aligns with their personality.

Internal Conflict: Explore each character's internal conflicts, desires, and fears. These internal struggles add depth to their characterization.

External Conflict: Consider how characters interact with one another and their external conflicts. Ensure that their actions and decisions are in line with their personalities.

Consistency: Maintain consistency in character behavior, beliefs, and values throughout the story. Avoid abrupt character shifts unless they are well-motivated and explained. 

Style and Voice Editing

Style and voice editing is the stage where your writing truly becomes distinctive and memorable. It involves refining your unique writing style and ensuring that your narrative voice shines through consistently.

Tips for Effective Style and Voice Editing

Identify Your Writing Style: Reflect on your writing style. Are you descriptive and poetic, or concise and direct? Understand your natural tendencies.

Consistency is Key: Ensure that your writing style remains consistent throughout the manuscript. Abrupt shifts in style can be jarring to readers.

Narrative Voice: Identify your narrative voice. Is it first-person, third-person limited, or omniscient? Make sure your chosen narrative perspective aligns with the story's needs.

Character Voices: Pay attention to the unique voices of your characters. Each character should have a distinct way of speaking and thinking, contributing to the overall narrative texture.

Finding a Professional Editor

Writing a book is a deeply personal journey, but when it comes to the final steps of polishing your manuscript, it's essential to bring in a fresh perspective. This is where a professional editor comes in. They can help transform your work from good to outstanding, ensuring that it's ready to captivate readers. In this section, we'll explore how to find the right editor for your project.

When to Consider Hiring a Professional Editor

While self-editing and feedback from beta readers and critique partners are valuable, there comes a point when seeking professional editing assistance is crucial. Here are some key indicators that it's time to hire a professional editor:

After Self-Editing: Once you've gone through multiple rounds of self-editing and received feedback from beta readers, it's time to consider professional editing. You've taken your manuscript as far as you can on your own.

Before Publishing: Professional editing is essential if you plan to publish your work, whether traditionally or through self-publishing. It ensures your manuscript is in top shape, ready to impress agents, publishers, or readers.

For Complex Projects: If your project is particularly complex or requires specialized knowledge (e.g., technical writing, academic papers, historical accuracy), a professional editor with expertise in that area may be necessary.

Types of Professional Editing Services

Professional editors offer various types of editing services, each addressing different aspects of your manuscript. Here's an overview of the most common types:

Developmental Editing: This type of editing focuses on the big picture. Developmental editors help you shape your story, refine your characters, and ensure your plot flows smoothly.

Line Editing: Line editors dive into the nuances of your writing. They focus on improving sentence structure, style, and narrative flow, making your prose shine.

Copyediting: Copyeditors are meticulous about grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency in style and formatting. They ensure your manuscript is error-free and conforms to industry standards.

Proofreading: The final stage of editing, proofreading checks for typos, formatting errors, and minor issues that may have been missed in earlier rounds of editing.

How to Choose the Right Editor

Finding the right professional editor is a crucial step in your publishing journey. Here's how to make the best choice:

Research: Look for editors with experience in your genre. Explore their portfolios and read client testimonials. A track record of successful projects is a good sign.

Sample Edit: Many editors offer a sample edit or consultation. Use this opportunity to assess their compatibility with your manuscript. Check if their editing style aligns with your vision.

Communication: Clear and effective communication with your editor is paramount. They should understand your manuscript's genre, themes, and your specific goals for the project.

Budget: Get quotes from multiple editors and consider your budget. Editing can be an investment, but it's essential to find a balance between quality and cost.

Contracts: Before starting the editing process, sign a clear contract that outlines the scope of work, deadlines, fees, and any additional services. A well-defined agreement protects both you and the editor.

Choosing the right professional editor is a partnership that can significantly impact the quality of your manuscript. Take your time, do your research, and find someone who truly understands your work.

Editing Tools and Software

In the digital age, writers have access to a wealth of editing tools and software that can significantly simplify the editing process. These tools not only help catch grammar and spelling errors but also provide valuable insights into your writing style.

1. Grammarly

Grammarly is a widely recognized and user-friendly tool that checks your writing for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and style errors. It provides real-time suggestions as you write in various platforms, including web browsers, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs. Grammarly's premium version offers more advanced features like style improvements and plagiarism checks.

2. ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid is an all-in-one writing assistant that goes beyond simple grammar checks. It offers in-depth reports on readability, overused words, style issues, and more. The tool integrates with popular word processors and even has a Scrivener plugin for authors who use this writing software.

3. Hemingway Editor

Named after the renowned writer Ernest Hemingway, this tool helps you simplify your writing. Hemingway Editor highlights complex sentences, common writing errors, and suggests alternatives to improve readability. It's particularly useful for authors aiming for clear and concise prose.

4. Scrivener

Scrivener is a comprehensive writing and editing software designed for authors. It provides a flexible workspace to organize your manuscript, research materials, and notes. While Scrivener isn't an editing tool in the traditional sense, its robust features can streamline your editing process.

5. Google Docs

Google Docs is a versatile cloud-based platform for collaborative writing and editing. It offers real-time collaboration, commenting, and revision history tracking. Authors can easily share their work with beta readers, critique partners, or professional editors.

6. AutoCrit

AutoCrit specializes in helping authors improve their fiction writing. It analyzes your manuscript for issues like pacing, dialogue, and repetition. It provides recommendations to enhance your storytelling and writing style.

7. Hemingway App

Similar to Hemingway Editor, the Hemingway App identifies complex sentences, adverbs, and passive voice in your writing. It offers immediate feedback to help you simplify and clarify your prose.

8. Evernote

Evernote is a powerful note-taking and organizational tool. While not an editing tool per se, it's indispensable for keeping track of ideas, research, and notes during the writing and editing process.

9. Reedsy Book Editor

Reedsy Book Editor is an online tool that helps authors format their manuscripts for publishing. It's especially handy for self-publishing authors looking to create professional-looking ebooks.

Common Editing Mistakes to Avoid

Editing is a critical step in the writing process, but it's essential to be aware of common editing mistakes that can hinder your progress. By recognizing and addressing these errors, you can refine your editing process and elevate the quality of your manuscript. Let's explore some of the most prevalent editing pitfalls and how to avoid them.

1. Editing Too Soon

One of the most common mistakes writers make is editing their work too soon after finishing the first draft. While the enthusiasm to refine your manuscript is commendable, it's crucial to give your writing some distance. Take a break before diving into the editing process. This allows you to return to your work with fresh eyes and a more critical perspective.

2. Neglecting the Big Picture

Focusing solely on grammar and spelling (SPAG editing) during your initial editing rounds is a mistake. While these aspects are vital, it's equally important to assess the overall structure, plot, character development, and style of your manuscript. Neglecting the big picture can result in a polished but fundamentally flawed story.

3. Overediting

Yes, you read that right—overediting can be a problem. Constantly revising your manuscript without a clear plan can lead to a never-ending editing cycle. Strive for a balance between thorough editing and knowing when your work is ready to be shared or submitted.

4. Ignoring Feedback

If you've enlisted beta readers or critique partners, their feedback is invaluable. However, it's a mistake to ignore or dismiss their insights. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to refine your work. Remember that not every suggestion needs to be implemented, but each one should be considered thoughtfully.

5. Relying Solely on Editing Software

While editing tools and software are powerful aids, they are not infallible. Relying solely on automated editing tools without human oversight can result in errors going unnoticed. Always use these tools as supplements to your own editing process, not replacements.

6. Rushing the Final Proofread

Proofreading is the last line of defense before publishing. Rushing this step can lead to embarrassing typos and errors slipping through. Take your time to meticulously proofread your work or consider hiring a professional proofreader for the final polish.

7. Neglecting Style Consistency

Consistency in style, tone, and formatting is vital, especially in longer works. Neglecting these aspects can create a disjointed reading experience. Create a style guide or checklist to maintain consistency throughout your manuscript.

8. Dismissing Your Gut Feeling

Sometimes, you might receive feedback or advice that conflicts with your vision for your manuscript. While it's essential to be open to suggestions, don't dismiss your gut feeling entirely. Ultimately, it's your story, and your voice should shine through.

9. Not Celebrating Progress

Finally, don't forget to celebrate your editing milestones. Writing and editing can be long and challenging processes. Take moments to acknowledge your accomplishments and keep the motivation flowing.

Beta Readers and Critique Partners

I want to finally end this blog post by talking about beta readers and critique partners. While some people might argue they shouldn’t be mentioned in an editing blog I think it’s important to also include them. 

As an author, it's easy to become deeply immersed in your work, making it challenging to spot its flaws and areas for improvement. This is where beta readers and critique partners come in—a fresh set of eyes and perspectives to help you refine your manuscript.

Why Beta Readers and Critique Partners Matter

Objective Feedback: Beta readers and critique partners offer an objective viewpoint on your work. They can identify issues you might have missed due to your familiarity with the story.

Diverse Insights: Different readers bring unique experiences and preferences to your manuscript. This diversity of perspectives can highlight both strengths and weaknesses in your writing.

Identifying Weaknesses: Beta readers and critique partners can pinpoint areas that might not be immediately apparent to you. Whether it's character inconsistencies, plot holes, or pacing issues, their feedback is invaluable.

Tips for Working with Beta Readers and Critique Partners

Select the Right Readers: Choose beta readers or critique partners who have an interest in your genre and can provide constructive feedback. A mix of avid readers and writers can offer diverse insights.

Clear Guidelines: Provide clear guidelines or questions for your readers to focus on while reading your manuscript. This can help you receive specific and actionable feedback tailored to your needs.

Consider Diversity: Seek feedback from a diverse group of readers to get a range of perspectives and opinions. Different backgrounds and tastes can lead to well-rounded feedback.

Be Open to Criticism: Be prepared to receive both positive and negative feedback. Constructive criticism is essential for growth, and it's a sign that your beta readers care about helping you improve.

Take Your Time: Don't rush the feedback process. Give your readers ample time to read and provide their insights. Rushing can lead to incomplete or superficial feedback.

Ask for Specifics: Encourage your beta readers or critique partners to provide examples and specifics in their feedback. This makes it easier for you to understand and address their suggestions.

I hope this blog on Everything You Need To Know Before Editing Your Manuscript will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.  

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and publishing tips for authors every Monday and Thursday! And don’t forget to head over to my TikTok and Instagram profiles @hayatheauthor to learn more about my WIP and writing journey! 

[lilsocksiswriting]

Academic Weapon Chapter Six

Summary:

You were like a lot of humans, born with just enough curse energy to see curses but not enough power to do anything. Your greed has helped you hold in the Jujustu Sorcery program. it is this same greed that tends to blind you to the danger you are in.

Sukuan sees you as a weak pretty thing that he can hold a conversation in his class. This is what he tells him to do he falls for you, his student because the curse refuses to believe this is love.

Oh, then there is the murder.

Characters: Reader, Ryomen Sukuna, Satoru Gojo, Suguru Geto,Ieiri Shoko, Iori Utahime,

Pairings: Sukuna X Fem!Reader

Tags: College AU, Professor X Student, Modern Fantasy AU, NSFW

warmings: no beta lol

Notes:

Not as much smut as I would have liked but we got to advance that plot. I feel like a broken record but I'm sorry for the inconsistency posting. It might still happen when I apply to every job under the sun. With that being said if you like my fics and want to see more of my writing as well as exclusive content you can buy or subscribe to my Patreon or leave me a tip over on my Ko-fi. Every little bit helps right now!

patreon.com/KayleySocks

Chapter Five || Chapter seven || Masterlist

You do not know if you like jerking Sukuna off or sucking him off more. On one hand, when you jerked the curse off yesterday you were so much closer to his face that you could feel and hear every grunt he made as you worked him to a release.

Now, the following Wednesday, you find yourself down on your knees gagging on the curse’s thick cock. Somewhere in the post haze from pleasuring each other yesterday, you had given Sukuna your cell phone number. The  first ever text from him was during your Curse Weaponry class telling you he expected you in his office after your classes.

And now here you are, knees red and sore from the hardwood floor between Sukuna’s legs that are spread wide enough to create a spot just for you. You are squeezing and working what you cannot fit into your mouth. Sukuan has been so graciously patient with his new plaything.

But she’s…..different.

He sits in his expensive desk chair, looking almost bored. In one hand, he twirls a fountain pen that he is supposed to be using to mark up the latest essays from his Curse Theory class. His other hand is closed into a fist that he rests his cheek against. His heated eyes bore into the top of his head.

With every little bit you take further into your mouth Sukuna swears it is the best feeling ever. Your mouth is so warm, wet, and eager to please him. When your nose presses against the coarse hairs of his groin Sukuna's eyes flutter close. He cannot believe his luck to have found someone as brilliant, eager, and enticing as you in that last place he would expect it.

“That’s it,” he purrs, setting down his pen to give you more of his precious attention.

The slight pressure he puts on your head makes you stay put. You struggle to breathe through your nose as his dick rests in the back of your throat.

“What a sight you are,” Sukuna says, “I have a hard time believing that you’ve never sucked dick before with how little of a gag-“

But just before he can finish degrading you pull back, and cough.

Sukuan frowns. He spoke too soon.

You take in a few deep breaths. You thought you had it. Your plan was to go slow and easy until you felt comfortable, then let the curse take control and fuck your throat raw. But that damn gag reflex was getting in the way. Sorry is not going to do you any good with an unforgiving being like Sukuna. So, instead, you went right back at it.

The cruse leans his head back and moans this time when you take the fat head of his cock into your mouth again.

Somewhere in the background, you hear a phone going off. It takes a second for you to recognize that it is your cell phone going off. It keeps going off as you swirl your tongue. The insistent tone is taking up more and more of your lust-muddled mind. You wish it would just go to voicemail already.

“Answer the cursed thing before I slice it in half,” He growls.

You clamber to your feet. Going without a cell phone sounds like hell. Having Sukuna upset with you sounded somehow worse.

Your book bag had been forgotten by the office door. Pulling out your phone Gojo’s goofy smile lights up your screen.

“What do you want, Gojo?”

“Ohhh she’s bitey.”

You look over your shoulder at the curse and regret doing so. Your whole face, hell your whole body goes red. Even though there is a desk obscuring your view it is obvious that Sukuna is stroking his cock in slow, even strokes as he watches you with predatory eyes.

Whipping your head back to face the door, Sukuna chuckles. Really? You had no shame gagging on his cock. But one look at him jerking himself off and your sudden bashful?

“I’m not bitey. I’m busy. I came to the –“

“The library to do class work,” he cuts you off. “Yes,yes,yes I figured. Do you want me to drive you home, I can be there in like five.”

Gojo’s tone was chipper which was usual but the offer to come pick you up was a little off. “You mean like right now?”

“Why not?”

Sukuna’s fist settles around the base of his shaft. His inhuman senses pick up the Gojo brat’s voice. He did not know that the two of you were acquaintances, or even that a weakling like you was on the sorcerer’s radar, or why this new fact about you made frustration bubbles in his chest.

“Well, I'm a  little busy…” you look back at Sukuna again. He now looks annoyed with you. Seriously what the hell did you do this time? “I’m about to have a feedback session with Professor Sukuna.”

“What? What he’s doing at the library so late?”

You knew why he was staying late tonight; to get his dick wet. But your mind flashed back to the night of that party when you left early. What was he doing on campus then?

“Y/N?”

“I don't know, I-I just saw his office light on and….”

“Ok, yeah. I’ll wait for you then.”

“What? No Gojo, you don’t have to do that. I-it may be a while and, like, aren’t you two not supposed to meet or something?”

Sukuna scoffs. It was actually that the two of them should not be on campus at the same time, but that went out the window once the brat started college. Now the two just avoided each other.

“Come on y/n let me be chivalroussssss,” Gojo wines.  Your jaw twitches. There he goes again, trying to hide something with that childish attitude. “I can just wait outside.”

“Gojo…is something' going on?”

“What,” he laughs then says,” I told ya I’m just trying to be a good friend. If you must know, the Gojo clan has oh so graciously offered up members free time for extra patrols around campus.”

“So, something is going on and you don’t think I’m smart enough to keep myself safe?.”

“Y/N  I promise it’s not like that, I'm just bored.”

A knot of anger in your chest tightens, “If you were bored you wouldn’t be so  concerned with how or when I get home.”

“That’s not true. Jeez, you ever think that you're just good company?”

“Then why haven’t you offered this to Utahime, of Shoko?”

“If you are so concerned with the woman getting home I will ensure it.” Sukuna's booming voice is picked up by your phone.

“Are you already in office?”

“…y-yea,” you look at Sukuna. To see If he was serious. The stern look tells you that he is.

“Well,will that suffice you brat?” Sukuna addresses Gojo.

You do not give the six eyes user a chance to answer. “I’ll text you when I get back to my dorm. Will that stop you from worrying?”

“Satoru are you coming?” someone calls for him in the background with a distinct accent.

Gojo sighs, “Fine,”

Hanging up you put your phone in Do Not Disturb before slipping it back in your book bag.

“Now where were we?”

“Giving you feedback,” Sukuna answers and it looks like he has forgotten about his hardened dick drooping between his legs.

“But-“

Sukuan looks up from the essay you turned in today with that stare that did not leave any room. It was so hard to tell what was going on the curse’s head. Whatever thoughts he had he hid well behind that cold face.

You tell yourself that feedback would not hurt. Especially if you can figure out how to bring your grades up to an A. That will really show people like Gojo and that one jerk in your class.

You go to take a seat across from him at the desk but Sukuna shakes his head, “No back on your knees woman.”

You pause, but then your body moves to do as told. Once you are settled back in your original place look up to the curse for further instructions.

Sukuan tsks,” Now get back to sucking and I will tell you how you can improve your grades. Little dam overachieve-erng!”

His words are cut off by a strangled groan when you take half of him into your hot mouth.

“ Fucking brat,” He mummers under an exhale.

He soon relaxes in his seat and even pets our head as you take a little more into your mouth. He waits until he can feel his spongy head squish against the back of your throat then  begins speaking, “You aren’t pushing yourself.”

You wonder if he means your essays or sucking him off. Either way, you start to experiment bobbing your head fast. You cough again but do not pull back this time.

“You are so focused on presenting your thoughts in such a perfect and complete way  that you don’t think about what you’ve written.”

Oh, so it was about your essays. Though your efforts are not all for not. Sukuna’s voice seems tighter.

You try to retain the feedback to  memory. But you do find it hard with the wetness growing between your legs is just as distracting as the dick pulsing in your mouth.

Sukuns lets out another one of the long exhale and his red eyes flutter close. The hand atop your head fists your hair.

“You-you need to stop worrying so much about making it all perfect”

Ok, maybe you could apply that feedback to your dick sucking. You pull off Sukuna’s slick cock and look up the moment he opens his eyes.

Oh god, you think. He looks so good. There is a redness in his cheeks, his pupils are dilated, mouth slighted arrest, and face contoured in annoyance. Was he annoyed that such a weakling was in control of making him feel this good? The possibility makes you want to giggle.

“Then help me make it messy.”

“Do you have any idea what you are asking brat?”  Sukuna now has a smirk across his face.

“You heard me. show me how….I’m seeing now that I've been misled.” “oh, misled by who?”

“By my sources,” you answer averting your gaze.

“And would those sources be pathetically vanilla and fake videos of humans fucking each other?”

The shameless way he describes it makes your face flush. The curse just chuckles, “ The oddest things make you blush.”

You do not have the opportunity to make an excuse for yourself because the hand in your head pushes down. Sukuna’s cock is filling your mouth again and this time you have  no control of how fast or deep it goes.  It sparks something new and hot in you.

You let Sukuna guide your mouth up and down his cock. There is plenty of gagging and coughing. Your throat constricts around the girth. There is a serious lack of air. But it is such a turn on.

You hate hate hate that you choose to wear high waisted jeans today. As Sukuna fucks your throat you have a strong need to spear your knees apart and touch yourself. Your hands are digging their short fingernails in his slacks just to have something to hang onto.

“See, “ he grunts and suddenly snaps his hips frowned.

You jump and gag more. Tears collect in the corners of your eyes which are now rolling back. You feel the hot spurt of cum splash down the back of your throat.

You try in earnest to swallow all  of the cum, really you still manage to dribble  down your chin. Sukuna pays it little mind like you do . He simply swipes it up with his thumb that he then pushes past your swollen lips.

“You did good for your first time sucking dick,” the curse praises.

“Thank you?” you say not sure of how to react to the casual compliant

“You're welcome. Now get up and get your things. I did tell the Gojo brat that I would ensure you get home. “

___

For a college campus, even at night, it is eerily empty. You expected to see more students about rather that  be grabbing something for one of university’s cafés that stay open late, coming and going to and from dorms, or the library. But you have seen only a handful of students out.

Mabey Sukuna scares them all off? You bit the inside of your cheek. Would that mean that I have scary dog privileges then?

Or maybe something happened like you originally excepted. There is an offness in the air tonight. Plus, why would Sukuan offer to walk you back? Surely he could care less of the fate of one of his students even if  that student sucks his cock. Maybe he saw potential in you and he would hate for that potential’s life to be cut short?

“I can hear your brain whirling at this point,”Sukuna remarks.

“I-“ you look up to see the stone-faced man bathed in a passing streetlamp. He is not paying you any mind, but you still look forward as well as if you had been caught staring at the curse’s sharp features . “Do you think something else has happened? Gojo’s always been a little…. over worrisome when it comes to me. But this kinda feels like a whole new level if he is putting trust in you.”

“Oh, is he afraid I might do something to you? Take advantage of you in some way,” there is a teasing lift in  his voce.

You let out a puff of air,” He treats you just like the rest of the university does, like a bomb. He thinks you’re gonna snap and go back to the Heian era when you were out  decimating villages if they didn’t throw you a festival like you were some kinda of harvest god.”

“Hmm, so you have been reading about me?”

“Don’t act as if you don’t play any significant roles in Jujutsu history,” you point out then go back to the situation possibly at hand. “So do you think something else has happened?”

“Hard to tell,” Sukuan says in a more contemplative tone. Was he mad now? This is why you do so much research on the infamous curse. “The whole university is panic over a measly death-““Murder,” you correct him.

You do not even notice that you dare to correct the King of Cures in such a carefree manner. Sukuan does, but for some reason he does not get as annoyed. If it were any other person or curse he would not think of ending their life here and now. What was it about you that made you get away with speaking to him like that? You were weak, your only saving grace was that too are just a tad bit smarter than most. Sukuna tells himself it would be such a shame to let that go to waste.

You bite your bottom lip as the silence between continues. The night is awfully quiet now that you have a moment to really listen. You can only hear the sound of your footsteps against the cement sidewalk and the occasional rustle of leaves when a gust of wind weaves through the trees. You hug yourself as a hard guest blows past.

You hate to admit that Gojo was probably right and make a note to take a sweatshirt with you tomorrow morning. Sukuan looks the least bit bothered since he grabbed a jacket off the back of his chair.

You look around once more. Not a soul in sight now. It was a new moon too. The only thing keeping the dark at bay is the passing streetlamp. If you did not have the King of Curses escorting you home you would have definitely been creeped out and cold. Well, you still are a bit chilly, but at least safe?

“Sukuna?”

“What?”

“Do you even know where I live?”

His mouth presses into a thin line before speaking, “They don’t know a thing about the culprit and they intend to keep their lips pretty sealed about the whole matter. Leaving it up to the Gojo clan to take care of this. And that clan loves to keep its secrets.“

You giggle then tell him, “I live at the student commons B. That would explain all the extra patrols.”

“And the Gojo brat’s protectiveness over you?” Sukuan inquires.

You do not miss the edge in his voice nor how he moves a bit closer to you. You do not comment on it or the warmth you can feel against your arm from having the curse’s larger body closer to you. It was nice. Even if it was just a sliver of his closeness, you relish in it.

“He’s usually not this worrisome and overprotective. His behavior is what clued me in that there’s something going on. The big clans have gotten involved too and because of that Gojo has to do stuff as head of the clan which stresses him out.“

Sukuan only hums.

You two are plunged into a brief darkness stepping out from under a streetlamp . In the darkness you admit, “honestly I really hate it.”

You two pass under another streetlamp, a few more steps closer to the student commons. Your face is more relaxed, eyes on the branches overhead blocking your view of the dark infante sky.

“You hate the brat’s attention?”

“I hate that I’m weak?” you wonder. Now that you have said just a snippet of your inner thoughts out loud you cannot stop more from spilling out into the world. “I hate that no matter how much I learn it just never feels like it’s enough. Or that in the end it might not mean anything.”

“The Jujutsu world doesn’t seem to care very much for scholars.”

“Exactly!” you say, something in the darkness sparking within you. “All they seem to want are healers and fighters. There’s no, like , want to progress forward.”

“Makes everything so boring,” The curse agrees. “Looks like we have something in common.”

You bite back a smile. The comment makes you feel pleasantly warm. You spend what little time you have left until you arrive at the front door to the lobby of your dorm building asking Sukuna other questions to see if the two of you have anything else in common. Though Sukuna sounds like he sees each and every one of the questing meaningless and annoying, he still answers.

“Well thanks for walking back,” you say once at your door.

Thaw curses only grunts, his attention seems to be drawn somewhere else, nose turned up sniffing the night air.

“Good night Professor Sukuna.”

“Y/N.”

You were digging your key card from your book bag but paused when the curse said your name.

“Yea?”

Looking at Sukuna you catch a glimpse of surprise before it is consumed with that coldness again. “There is blood in the air tonight.”

And that was all that is all the curse has to say before leaving you at the door to your dorm building confused by his ominous words.

___

You were not left confused for very long because first thing  in the morning the King of Curses seeks you out at the Cruised Collection Archive. He came there under the pretense of returning the book he ‘stole’ out from under your nose. Asshole.

The other student workers are too frozen with fear to say or do anything when the curse waltz in the library and tosses the old book down on the front desk. They then look the other way and busy themselves with anything as he strolls right up to you. So long as it is not them he is focusing his cruel attention on.

You were at one of the long tables organizing different pamphlets that needed to be foaled and given out to the other branches for an upcoming exhibit, when Sukuna’s presence consumed the place. Looking up just in time to see him walk in as if he owns the library.

“Good morning brat,” he greets standing across the table from you.

You pause your work. Looking up at the man with a from across your lips. “Good morning professor, you shouldn’t toss books like that so carelessly. They are old and easily damageable.”

Sukuna smirks at the confidence you have to scold him. He steps around the table to get closer to you. Placing a hand flat on the table next to the neat stack of printed pamphlets you lean in close. The looming presence caging you and not one person currently in the library dares not even look fearing that they may be caught by the curse’s gaze.

“Where do you get off speaking to me as if we are equals?” Sukuna asks you in a low, dangerous voice that sends a shiver down your spine, but you are not scared.

“I told you yesterday that books in these collections are fragile. They are original sources of primary information. The credibility of anything written becomes useless  as soon as those sources are lost..”

She makes a good point.

“And what has been published with that book by that mad man?” he challenges.

“I can’t think of anything off the top of my head but I can research it for you and give you an estimated number Professor. Or should I point out that you checked that book out because you seemed to find it relevant for your class?”

This brat.

Instead of continuing this argument which Sukuan would enjoy doing , he tells you in a quieter voice, “There’s been another murder.”

Your eyes grow wide in surprise. Sukuna then watches you face grow serious and analytical. “So, there was something up last night.”

“I thought I would give you a heads up since you seem to like to take these late night strolls to your dorm.”

“Thank you.”

Thank you. thank me?

Sukuan stares at you for a long moment. His face is still as cold as ever, but there is something new about his eyes. They seem less sharp, less deadly. Then he leaves, just like that