#Also a little grace in a suit just to balance it out

[sirofreak]

Shoutout to the Whollies discord server, specifically @mybrainisrottingat3am who randomly called argent a femboy and it turned into this. I’m sorry

Also screenshots from the discord conversation

[faebled-stories]

"We Met Online"

Kinkvember Day 1: Virtual Reality

LOONA/ARTMS Jeon Heejin x Male reader

(Happy Belated Halloween)

8.6k words

Heejin was exhausted after another grueling day packed with rehearsals, interviews, and photoshoots. The bright lights and relentless schedules of her life as an idol often overshadowed the excitement and passion she once felt for her craft. While the glitz and glamor brought rewards, they also came with the suffocating weight of expectation—the never-ending demand for perfection. After yet another long day navigating the pressures of fame, she craved an escape, something to take her mind off the incessant hustle for just a moment.

As she entered the shared apartment she called home with her fellow ARTMS members, she was greeted by the unexpected sight of Jinsoul lounging on the couch. A mischievous smile danced across her face, instantly piquing Heejin's interest.

“Hey, Heejin!” Jinsoul called out, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Got something for you.”

Heejin raised an inquisitive eyebrow, her fatigue momentarily forgotten. Jinsoul reached behind the couch and produced a sleek black box prominently displaying a logo that sent a thrill of recognition through Heejin—Infinity. This was the VR game that had taken the gaming world by storm, promising an immersive realm where players could interact and experience life in a way that felt startlingly real.

"Before you say anything, check this out!" Jinsoul exclaimed, as she effortlessly revealed a second item—a thin, skin-tight suit that looked like it belonged in a futuristic sci-fi film. The suit shimmered slightly under the apartment's fluorescent lights, its smooth, almost weightless fabric captivating Heejin's attention.

“What... is that?” Heejin asked, hesitantly taking the suit from Jinsoul’s hands. The fabric felt cool against her fingertips, almost alive with potential.

“This,” Jinsoul said, her smile widening, “is what makes the experience really immersive. It’s a haptic feedback suit. You wear this while playing, and it makes you feel everything from touches to sensations—like you’re actually there. Trust me, you’re going to love it.”

Heejin eyed the suit with a mix of intrigue and apprehension. The thought of feeling things in a game was both thrilling and slightly unnerving. Yet, given the chaotic demands of her life, the idea of escaping reality, even for just a little while, was immensely tempting.

“Alright,” Heejin finally said, a small smile breaking through her exhaustion. “I’ll give it a try.”

After quickly changing into the snug suit—its fabric wrapping around her like a second skin—Heejin donned the Infinity VR headset. As she activated it, the familiar world of her daily routine melted away, replaced by a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and enchanting scenery in the expansive landscape of the game.

Heejin found herself standing in the midst of a bustling virtual marketplace, where avatars of all shapes and sizes interacted with one another amid floating islands, glowing rivers, and a mesmerizing starry sky. The air felt cool and invigorating, a crispness that felt astoundingly real, and the sensation of her feet grounding her on the cobblestone path added to the illusion of reality.

As she moved about, Heejin looked down at her customized avatar: Noxelia. She had spent hours meticulously designing her digital persona, pouring all her aspirations and hidden desires into this character. Noxelia was tall and graceful, exuding an air of power with every gesture. Her long silver-black hair flowed behind her like silk, cascading elegantly down her back, while her armor shimmered with a radiant violet hue, reflecting the light of the ethereal marketplace. Noxelia embodied everything Heejin wanted to be—strong, confident, and untouchable.

With each step, Heejin felt a sense of liberation. In this virtual world, the constraints and expectations tied to her real-life identity faded away. No longer did she have to strive for perfection or balance the weight of public scrutiny; in this realm, she could be anyone she wished to be. Breathing in the imaginary scents of street food and experiencing the chatter of NPCs and other players brought her an unfamiliar sense of joy.

As Heejin wandered the vibrant marketplace, the colors and sounds pulsed with life, pulling her deeper into this virtual world. Stalls adorned with shimmering goods and bustling avatars created an electric atmosphere. But it wasn’t long before her keen eye was caught by the figure of another player standing nearby—a default knight clad in simple silver armor, with a basic sword slung at his side. What made him stand out were the tiny sparkles that glimmered across his chest plate, giving him an unexpectedly charming, magical quality amidst the melee of customizations.

Heejin felt a playful smile spread across her face as she looked at her meticulously designed avatar, Noxelia, which was a beacon of creativity and power. The contrast was amusing, and she felt a spark of mischief surge within her. With a lighthearted stride, she approached the knight.

“Nice knight outfit!” Heejin teases, her voice playful as she leans casually against a nearby stall. “Going for the ‘chivalry isn’t dead’ look?”

The default knight, turn with a grin. “What can I say? I’m a classic.” Your tone is lighthearted, your eyes dancing with humor.

“Classic, huh? While that’s admirable, wouldn’t it be more fun to have something original like mine?” She gestures to her intricately designed armor, the brilliant colors and detailed patterns shimmering in the marketplace light.

You chuckle, raising your hands in mock surrender. “You’re not wrong. I didn’t spend nearly as much time as some people on the customization screen.” There’s a hint of self-deprecation in your voice, your friendly expression encouraging her boldness.

With a flick of her hair, Heejin takes pride in her work. “I customized it all myself. Took hours, but every second was worth it. It feels so much more... me. But hey, at least you have those shiny sparkles.” She flashes you an encouraging smile, appreciating the effort you put in, however minimal it may seem.

You glance down at your armor, a hint of embarrassment creeping onto your face but quickly replaced with admiration for her dedication. “It’s impressive,” you admit. “But the sparkles? Blame my sister for those. She thought the default knight was too boring and convinced me to give it a touch of flair.”

Heejin’s grin widens at your candidness. “Your sister’s got good taste! At least someone in your family does.” She chuckles, the playful banter putting you both at ease.

And just like that, an easy connection forms between you two, filled with laughter and light-hearted teasing. Amidst the bustling marketplace, your camaraderie begins to bloom, reminding Heejin that sometimes, it’s not just the detailed armor or flashy weapons that make a game more enjoyable, but the spontaneous conversations with fellow players that create memories worth cherishing.

Over the next few weeks, you and Heejin forge a routine of playing together regularly. You become a familiar duo, exploring the vastness of Infinity, navigating through intricate puzzles, unveiling hidden treasures in new zones, and playfully competing in exhilarating mini-games. Amidst the thrill and occasional heated competition, Heejin finds herself drawn to your relaxed demeanor. Your ability to elicit laughter, even in the most intense gaming moments, creates a warmth that infuses your bond with joy and light-heartedness.

One serene evening, you and Heejin find yourselves perched on Cloud Summit—a breathtaking floating isle that seems to reach for the heavens. The ambiance is nothing short of magical; the sky is painted in soft pastels, with delicate hues merging into one another, while the clouds below shimmer as if kissed by a gentle light. For Heejin, Cloud Summit quickly becomes her retreat, a serene hideaway to escape the weight of reality pressing down.

“You’re really good at this,” you say, joining her on a pixelated bench overlooking the horizon. Your avatar exudes a relaxed charm as you rest beside her, your gaze sweeping over the breathtaking scenery. “You always seem… focused.”

A gentle smile graces Heejin’s face as she takes in the view, the colors swirling like cotton candy in the vast canvas above. “That’s why I like it here,” she replies thoughtfully, her voice barely a whisper against the tranquility of the surroundings. “It’s the only place I can relax, you know?”

Curiosity flickers in your eyes as you turn to face her. “What do you mean?” you ask, genuinely interested.

Heejin takes a deep breath, letting the virtual winds carry away some of the weight she feels. “In real life,” she starts, her voice softening amidst the cloud-dappled sky, “I have this job. People expect a lot from me, and it’s exhausting. But here, in this world, I can just… be.”

Your expression shifts as the gravity of her words sinks in. You stay quiet, contemplating her vulnerability. “I get that,” you finally say. “I have my own responsibilities too. My sister... she looks up to me like I’m her knight in shining armor, but some days, it’s hard to live up to that. I feel like I’m letting her down”

It’s in that shared silence that something profound transpires. Heejin feels a deep, abiding sense of understanding passing between you, a connection that feels both immediate and enduring. Despite having never met in the physical realm, there’s an unspoken acknowledgment that pierces through the boundaries of your virtual existence.

As you linger in your conversation, Heejin finds comfort in the proximity of your avatar. Without even realizing it, you subtly shift closer, your digital shoulders brushing against each other. The feedback from her suit sends a gentle pulse through her body, etching your presence into her consciousness. It’s a simple gesture, but it feels like the quiet embrace of understanding she has longed for.

She hesitates, then feels a pull to lean into you, the act an instinctual response to the warmth radiating from your connection. “Thanks,” she murmurs, her voice barely rising above the gentle breeze. "For being here."

“For what?” you ask, your tone infused with warmth and sincerity.

“For just being here, talking to me,” she repeats, her heart swelling with gratitude.

Then, as if drawn by an unseen force, your avatars move closer together. In a spontaneous moment of bravery, you share your first virtual hug. At first, it feels a little awkward—two armored figures caught in a pixelated embrace—but through your haptic suits, warmth envelops you both, it’s a soft pressure that feels surprisingly intimate. Heejin could almost forget you could be separated by miles of reality.

Time seems to suspend as you hold onto each other. The virtual hug is simple, yet it’s charged with an energy that resonates in both your avatars and hearts. It transcends the playful banter of your previous interactions, hinting at a deeper connection emerging from the pixels.

-----

Though you never shared your real names, you and Heejin delved deeper into the recesses of each other’s lives, sharing small anecdotes and secrets that painted a vivid picture of the individuals behind your avatars. For Heejin, this was a sanctuary—a realm where she could shed the polished facade of stardom and embrace her authentic self, even under the veil of anonymity.

Your connection strengthened, and the game that once served as a mere pastime began to morph into something more profound. The boundaries of your virtual world started to blur, leading you both to a secluded enclave known as the Starlight Grove. Here, the luminescent trees and the soothing whispers of the river created an ambiance of tranquility and intimacy.

It was in this digital haven that you and Heejin experienced a shift in your relationship. As you stood beside the virtual waters, your avatars close enough to touch, a palpable tension filled the air. The haptic feedback suits you wore, designed to enhance the gaming experience, became conduits for a new kind of interaction—one that felt undeniably more real.

When you reached out and touched Heejin’s avatar, the suit sprang to life, simulating the warmth and pressure of a real human touch. The sensation was so convincing that it took her breath away. “I'll never get use to how real it feels.” she murmured, her voice tinged with surprise and delight.

Your touch was exploratory, your hand gliding down Heejin’s arm as if mapping out uncharted territory. Each pulse of sensation resonated like a soft echo, sending shivers through her body, igniting her senses. The technology bridging your virtual and physical realities had transcended mere gadgetry; it had become an extension of your very beings, allowing you to experience each other in ways you had never imagined possible within a game. Every pulse was a whisper, every sensation a promise, as you navigated this new realm of connection.

As your hand ventured lower, tracing the curve of her waist, the feedback became more intense. Heejin found herself succumbing to the illusion, her body arching toward your avatar, seeking more of the electric sensation that coursed through her with each simulated caress.

The intimacy of the moment escalated as your fingers moved with deliberate gentleness, crossing into more private territories. Heejin’s gasp echoed through the serene grove as her body responded to the suit’s accurate mapping of your touch. “Keep going, I can feel you... everywhere,” she confessed, her voice quivering with the weight of her vulnerability.

Your response was silent but spoke volumes through your actions. Your other hand found its way to her side, resting just beneath her chest. The new technology made the warmth of your touch tangible, each slow, intimate movement leaving Heejin breathless and yearning for more.

As the intensity of your virtual encounter grew, Heejin’s breaths became short and ragged. The sensors were so precise that every touch from you felt like a real caress, igniting a fire within her that threatened to consume her completely. Her body trembled, succumbing to the waves of pleasure that radiated from your every touch.

“Noxelia…” you murmured, your voice a low whisper that wrapped around her like a warm embrace.

“More... I want more.” she whimpered, her voice a mere whisper carried away by the digital wind.

Your fingers pressed into her with more insistence, the suit amplifying each sensation until Heejin felt as though she were floating, her body alight with an intensity that was almost too much to bear. The suit, once just a piece of gaming equipment, had become an instrument of unparalleled pleasure, each pulse and vibration resonating with her escalating desire.

Her breath caught as your virtual hands discovered a particularly sensitive spot between her legs. She hadn’t even realized that there were sensors in every nook of her pants, but the discovery heightened her awareness, causing her to arch against the unseen touch. Whimpers escaped her lips, growing more insistent, each sound a vibrato of desire.

Heejin’s cries began as a soft whimper, a prelude to the crescendo building within her. As the sensations intensified, her voice rose in pitch, becoming a series of breathy gasps punctuating the air. Each exhale carried a piece of her surrender, a testament to the pleasure that coursed through her veins.

“Please…” she breathed, the words becoming a mantra on her lips, a central thread amidst the chaos of her swirling thoughts.

As the tension built to its peak, Heejin’s cries intensified, creating a symphony of raw ecstasy. Each sound she made was a testament to the unbridled passion that enveloped her, growing louder and more urgent as the waves of pleasure coursed through her body. The air between them was charged, vibrating with the intensity of shared desire.

Her voice broke into a series of staccato moans, each one echoing the rhythm of her escalating heartbeat. Each sound was a note, weaving a melody that seemed to pulse in harmony with the flickering light of the Starlight Grove.

“Yes! Right there, don’t stop…” she panted, each syllable a fervent plea that resonated deep within the heart of their shared moment. Her body trembled, taut as a bowstring, as she teetered on the edge of rapture.

“I wouldn’t dream of it…” you replied, your tone carrying a seductive promise that pushed her further. The tension built, a fusion of will and sensation, until it snapped with breathtaking force.

The climax surged through her, a tidal wave that left her breathless and shattered, yet whole in a way only this moment could achieve. The cries that burst from her were pure and unrestrained, blending seamlessly with the ambient hum of the grove around them. Every muscle in her body seemed to pulse with the rhythm of her release, and for a moment, the world contracted to just the two of them and the echo of her bliss.

As the aftershocks rippled through her, her cries softened, subsiding into a contented hum that mirrored the tranquil ambiance of the Starlight Grove. Her breath evened out, and the only sounds left were the gentle rustle of the virtual foliage and the soft, satisfied sighs that escaped her swollen lips.

In the aftermath, as your avatars stood together in the soft glow of the luminescent garden, your heart raced, and a lingering warmth hummed through your body, a reminder of the intimacy you’d just shared. The suit, now a silent witness to the moment, lay against your skin—a gentle yet tangible link between your digital and physical worlds.

Slowly, Heejin’s body retreated, though the ghost of her touch lingered, a phantom presence you could still feel. As you looked around, the reality of what had just transpired settled in. Together, you had crossed a threshold, exploring depths of human connection in a place where the physical and the virtual felt inseparable.

The Starlight Grove, once just a scenic spot in the game, had transformed into a testament to your bond—a place where you and Heejin discovered that the heart’s capacity for connection knows no bounds, and that even within the confines of a digital world, human experiences can reach new heights of emotion and sensation.

"That was..." your voice broke the silence, filled with wonder and uncertainty. "More than I expected." The virtual space, typically a playground for fantasy and escapism, had transformed into a stage for a deeply human connection.

Heejin nodded, her breath still shaky. "Yeah... me too." The weight of what had just happened lingered, a tangible presence heavy with the knowledge that you had crossed a line neither of you anticipated.

The sensations, the connection—it had felt more real than either of you imagined possible. A game designed to simulate the thrill of adventure and camaraderie had instead become a conduit for an emotional exchange that left you both reeling. The digital environment, with its vivid landscapes and immersive experiences, had facilitated a bond that transcended pixels and code.

You laughed awkwardly, feeling uncertain of what to say next. "Uh, Noxelia, maybe I should... log off… I have a few things to take care of." The conversation, though taking place in a space where avatars are meant to be invincible, had touched something raw and vulnerable. Heejin gave a small, nervous smile, acknowledging the unspoken agreement. "Yeah... I think that’s a good idea. Same here."

With one final look, a gaze that felt as though it could pierce through the screen, you both logged off, letting the virtual world fade away. But as your screen went dark, the sound of Heejin's cries and pleas lingered, hanging in the silence long after the game had ended. The digital echo of your interaction replayed in your mind, a reminder of the depth and intensity that even online worlds could harbor.

You sat in your own apartment, the VR headset resting heavily on your lap. Like a film on replay, each moment shared between you two replayed in your mind. It felt all too tangible—too vivid. You could still feel the nuances of your presence, the harmony of your connection. This wasn’t just a game anymore; it was an experience, intimate and unforgettable. The events of the night lingered, leaving you to question what might come next.

Meanwhile, across the city, Heejin sat in the quiet of her room, yanking the VR headset off and sinking into silence as she stared blankly at the dormant screen. A light layer of sweat covered her body, her heart still pounding in her chest, the residual sensations from the immersive experience holding on like a delicate trace. Tentatively, she placed a hand between her legs, feeling the warmth and dampness that confirmed the intensity of her climax. The touch grounded her, pulling her back from the edge of the surreal and into the present.

The suit, now just fabric against her skin, had moments before been a bridge merging the virtual with the visceral. It had allowed her to feel emotions and sensations she hadn’t anticipated, leaving her both disoriented and exhilarated.

Running a hand through her hair, she struggled to process the whirlwind of emotions swirling within. Heejin, once just another player in the game, was now someone who had reached beyond the pixels, tethered by a connection that had transcended the screen.

Yet, as you sat in the stillness, you grappled with the implications of what had unfolded. Together, you’d crossed a boundary separating virtual interaction from emotional reality. What did this mean for your relationship? The urge to reach out lingered, but so did uncertainty. How could you transition from screen to reality, from alias to name, from a fantasy world to a genuine connection?

In the quiet contemplation, both you and Heejin found yourselves at a crossroads, reflecting on the connection fostered in a realm where sensations collided with emotions. The lines between the virtual and the real had blurred, leaving you both wondering if this bond could grow beyond the confines of the digital universe.

-----

For the past two weeks, the digital landscape of Infinity remained devoid of activity from its two most notable players: you and Heejin. The electric encounter had left an indelible mark on both of you, each hesitant to return to the game. Every time Heejin considered logging back in, memories flooded her mind—the warmth of your touch, the realism of your interactions, enhanced by the haptic suits. It was an experience both exhilarating and unsettling, one that made her heart race and left her feeling unsure.

You, too, were haunted by that night. The human mind intermingles confusion with excitement, embarrassment with desire. Each attempt to push the memory aside only amplified the awkwardness you felt at the thought of seeing her avatar again. What could you say? How could you interact as you had before?

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting warm hues across your apartment, you sat at the kitchen table, exhaustion settling after a long day at work. During this quiet moment, your younger sister, Nari, burst into the room like a whirlwind, her princess costume twirling around her as she moved. You couldn’t help but smile; she’d been preparing her Halloween outfit for weeks.

“Oppa, did you get the tickets?” she asked eagerly, bouncing into the chair beside you.

Your heart sank. “Nari… I don’t know if I can get the tickets. They’re really expensive,” you admitted, running a hand through your hair as the familiar weight of financial stress settled over you.

Nari’s bright expression faltered, confusion replacing her excitement. “But you promised we’d go to the ARTMS Halloween Event! I want to see all the girls—they’re so cool! I’ve been practicing their dances for months!” Her wide eyes sparkled with innocent hope, and the ache in your heart grew.

“I know, Nari,” you said softly, trying to ease the blow. “But things are a little tough right now. We might not be able to go.”

Her face fell, and the corners of her mouth drooped in disappointment. She didn’t understand why her oppa couldn’t make this happen—he always made things happen. “Please, oppa?” she pleaded, her eyes glistening. “I really want to go! It’s going to be the best thing ever! Please? I’ll be so good, and I won’t ask for anything else! Just this, I promise!”

You looked into her hopeful eyes, feeling a tight knot form in your chest. Nari didn’t know the sacrifices you made daily to ensure she had what she needed, and those little joys that brightened her world. The thought of disappointing her was unbearable. In that moment, she was your entire world, her happiness was everything.

You felt the crushing weight of financial strain as it collided with your overwhelming love for your sister. “Alright,” you whispered, relenting, though you weren’t sure how you’d make it work. “I’ll see what I can do.”

Nari’s face lit up instantly. She leapt forward, wrapping her arms around you in a tight hug. “Thank you, oppa! You’re the best! I can’t wait! We can match our costumes, and it’ll be perfect!”

Despite the worry gnawing at you, her joy was infectious, a reminder that despite life’s hardships, moments like these made everything worthwhile. “Yeah,” you murmured, softening under her embrace. “I’ll make sure we go.”

As you held Nari close, a spark of determination ignited. No matter the obstacles ahead, you would find a way to make this happen. Her happiness was worth everything, and you’d do whatever it took to make her dreams a reality.

-----

On a balmy evening, you and your sister, Nari, stepped into the buzz of excitement that enveloped the venue. The air was thick with anticipation as fans clad in vibrant costumes filled the space, their laughter and chatter mingling with the distant sound of music. You took a deep breath, adjusting the metallic sheen of your knight costume that you had donned to match Nari's enchanting princess outfit. However, beneath the gleaming armor, a sense of unease stirred within you. Your thoughts spiraled back to Noxelia, the girl who had ignited your heart during your late-night gaming sessions. Did she think of you the way you thought of her?

The crowd erupted into cheers as ARTMS finally took the stage, the deafening roar sweeping through the venue like a wave. Your heart nearly stopped, your breath catching in your throat the moment your eyes locked onto one of the performers. It was her—dressed in a costume that was an exact replica of Noxelia, the avatar that your companion had meticulously created. She stood front and center, illuminated by the spotlight, her presence magnetic, drawing every gaze toward her. The vibrant colors of her outfit were vivid, each intricate detail expertly crafted, a perfect mirror of everything you adored about the design and the mysterious girl who played it.

A knot formed in your chest as a startling realization hit you like a tidal wave: the girl who had been your cherished companion in the virtual world, your confidante and battle partner, was standing before you, not just as Noxelia, but as a famous idol beloved by thousands. The revelation sent your thoughts spiraling. How could the two worlds—your quiet, private connection with Noxelia and the glitzy, public persona of this star—exist in harmony? What could you, an ordinary guy, possibly offer her when she was surrounded by adoration, fame, and people who hung on her every word? The divide between you felt impossibly vast.

Moments after the electrifying performance, Nari grabbed your hand, her excitement contagious as you hurried toward the fan meet. Her eyes sparkled, her face glowing with joy as she practically bounced with each step, brimming with anticipation to meet her idols. But your mind was a storm of anxious thoughts, the weight of the revelation sinking in. You could hardly hear Nari’s enthusiastic chatter over the sound of your racing heartbeat. Each step toward the meet-and-greet felt heavier, the distance between you shrinking yet your internal turmoil growing. You were walking toward the girl who had been the source of so much of your happiness, but also the cause of your most nagging insecurities. What would she think of you when you finally stood face-to-face? Would she even piece the puzzle together? The reality of your encounter loomed, and your thoughts buzzed in a relentless loop as you approached her, the line shortening with every breath.

“Heejin-unnie! Don’t tell the others, but you’re my favorite!” Nari exclaimed as you reached the front of the line, her eyes sparkling with pure admiration. “I’ve been practicing your dances!”

Heejin’s smile widened, warmth radiating from her as she leaned forward to respond. “Thank you so much for coming! I’m honored to be in the presence of royalty, my princess.” The moment felt surreal, watching your sister bask in the glow of her idol’s attention.

With excitement bubbling over, Nari gestured to herself and then pointed proudly at you. “I’m Nari, and this is Y/N oppa! He’s my favorite person in the whole world.” She leaned in closer to Heejin, whispering conspiratorially but loud enough for you to hear. “You take that spot when he ignores me to play that game with the goggles and tights.”

Your stomach twisted, a knot forming as heat flushed your cheeks. You glanced nervously at Heejin, silently praying she wouldn’t pick up on the meaning behind Nari’s innocent words. For a brief moment, Heejin’s smile faltered, and her brows knitted as she exchanged glances between you and your sister, a hint of confusion in her expressive eyes.

“Goggles and tights?” Heejin echoed, her voice playful yet laced with curiosity.

Nari nodded enthusiastically, completely unaware of the storm brewing inside you. “Yeah! He plays it all the time. I even helped him make his character. Sometimes I sneak into his room because he looks so funny wearing all the gear.” She giggled, eyes bright with mischief.

Your face turned beet red; the spotlight of embarrassment was nearly unbearable. Heejin's expression shifted slightly, her skepticism apparent, but she quickly masked it with her trademark smile. Just as you thought you might escape unscathed, Nari tugged on your arm, her excitement palpable.

“Oppa! Show Heejin-unnie the thing!” Nari insisted, her words bubbling over with excitement.

You hesitated for a moment, knowing that revealing this secret could invite scrutiny you weren’t prepared to face. Still, your sister’s eager eyes left you little choice. With a reluctant sigh, you parted the front of your cape, revealing the array of sparkles that Nari had enthusiastically added to your knight costume. The shimmering details mirrored the intricate designs of your avatar’s armor in the game that had brought you and Heejin together.

Heejin’s eyes widened, flickering down to the sparkles as surprise shifted to realization. Her expression changed subtly—her lips parted slightly, and her brow arched as though a light had just switched on. The puzzle pieces clicked into place, and you felt the weight of her understanding settle over you.

No words were exchanged in that charged moment, yet the unspoken acknowledgment hung between you like a fragile thread. Heejin kept her composure, a soft smile curving her lips as Nari continued to chatter happily about her favorite dances. But the atmosphere had changed, carrying a subtle current that both excited and unsettled you.

As Nari giddily thanked Heejin, you felt a shift in your dynamic with the idol. You caught Heejin’s gaze lingering as she finished signing a poster for your sister, a silent echo of the connection you had shared in the game. That bond was now tangled with the reality of her stardom and your ordinary life. Would you remain just another player in her world, or had you crossed into something more significant? With a quiet sigh of relief and uncertainty, you stepped aside, wondering how this new chapter would unfold.

Unbeknownst to you, Heejin’s mind was a storm of thoughts, she began formulating a plan in her head while connecting the dots between your shared moments in the virtual world and the reality before her. The quiet understanding that had passed between you left her intrigued and curious about the path ahead.

-----

As you and Nari were about to leave the venue, one of the staff members approached you with a smile.

“Excuse me, sir? Heejin-ssi wanted to know if you and your sister would like to come backstage for a private meet-and-greet,” the staff member said politely.

Nari’s eyes lit up with pure joy, her excitement overflowing. “Really?! Oppa! We get to meet them again!”

Caught off guard, you glanced at the staff member, then at Nari, who was practically jumping with excitement. “Uh... sure,” you said hesitantly, feeling your nerves spike. You weren’t sure why Heejin wanted to see you both again, but Nari’s happiness was impossible to deny.

As you and Nari followed the staff member backstage, her excitement was palpable. She couldn’t stop bouncing on her feet, her little princess crown slightly askew as she held your hand tightly. You were led into a private room where the rest of the ARTMS members were hanging out after the event, casually chatting and relaxing in their costumes.

When you entered, the girls looked up, clearly surprised to see two new faces.

“Who’s this?” Jinsoul asked, her brow raised in curiosity as she eyed you and Nari.

Kim Lip, lounging on a couch, tilted her head. “Did we invite guests?” she asked, glancing at Heejin, who stood just behind you and Nari.

Nari, oblivious to the confusion, immediately ran up to the group, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Unnie, we met earlier today, and Heejin unnie brought us back” she announced.

The girls exchanged amused glances at Nari’s enthusiasm, though they were clearly still puzzled by the situation.

Heejin smiled warmly at Nari, then looked at her members. “Sorry for the surprise, but... I need to talk to my friend about something privately. Could you all keep an eye on Nari for a few minutes?”

At first, the girls seemed a bit unsure, but the moment they looked at Nari—who was grinning up at them with wide, eager eyes—they couldn’t resist.

“Oh, of course” Choerry said, kneeling down to Nari’s level. “We’ll have so much fun, won’t we, Nari?”

Nari clapped her hands excitedly. “Yay! I get to hang out with all the pretty unnies!”

Heejin smiled gratefully, her heart warmed by how quickly the girls took to Nari. But as she turned to you, her expression shifted. There was a quiet intensity in her eyes, an unspoken tension simmering just beneath the surface.

“Let’s go,” Heejin said softly, her voice steady yet charged with something more.

Sensing the shift in the air, you nodded and opened the door for her. You followed her into a quieter, smaller room down the hallway. As you closed the door behind you, a thick silence settled over the space. Neither of you spoke for a moment, the weight of everything unsaid pressing down on you.

Turning back to face her, you asked, “So, Noxelia, your real name is Heejin?”

Before you could finish your sentence, Heejin moved. In an instant, she crossed the small distance between you and threw herself into your arms, cutting you off with a fierce, passionate kiss. Her lips met yours with a hunger that had been building for weeks, a need restrained by the boundaries of the game but now unleashed without limits. The sensation of her body pressed against yours was overwhelming, and for a moment, your mind went blank as you lost yourself in the kiss.

Your arms instinctively wrapped around her, pulling her closer as you deepened the kiss, matching her intensity. The kiss was raw, filled with all the pent-up emotions you hadn’t been able to express in Infinity. The passion, the longing—it all came crashing down in this moment, unrestrained and real in a way the game could never allow.

Heejin’s hands slid up your chest, trying to hold on to your costume as if anchoring herself to you. It was so different from the touches you had shared in the virtual world—this was real, tangible, electric. You could feel her heartbeat through her body, her breath warm against your skin as you kissed like you were making up for all the time you had held back.

When you finally pulled apart, breathless, your forehead rested against hers, your breathing heavy in the quiet room.

“That’s... what we couldn’t do in the game,” Heejin whispered, her voice barely above a breathless laugh.

You chuckled softly, still holding her close, your heart pounding in your chest. “Yeah. We couldn’t.”

For a moment, neither of you moved, your bodies still pressed together, savoring the closeness. Everything you hadn’t been able to express in the game—the connection you had built, the tension that had grown between you—was finally being released.

As Heejin’s eyes fluttered open, meeting your gaze, there was something in them now that wasn’t just desire—it was understanding, a shared recognition of what you had both been feeling all along. The virtual world had been a safe space for you to explore your emotions, but this... this was real, raw, and far beyond anything you could have experienced in Infinity.

Heejin’s fingers slid from your chest to the collar of your costume, gently tugging at it. Her eyes remained locked on yours, but there was a new determination in them. Slowly, she began unfastening your knight’s armor, peeling it away as if removing the final barrier separating you from reality. The metaphor wasn’t lost on either of you—it was as though you were stripping away the layers of your avatars, your game personas, to reveal the people you truly were underneath.

You felt your breath catch as her fingers worked their way down, exposing more of your costume piece by piece. The air around you seemed to thicken, charged with the tension that had been building for so long. Every piece of armor that came undone felt like peeling back another layer of the virtual world you had once hidden behind.

Heejin’s hands moved deliberately, her touch light but charged with anticipation as she pushed the rest of your costume off, letting it fall to the floor. Your skin tingled where her hands had been, and for a moment, you just stood there, drinking each other in. Without the game between you, every movement felt more intense, more intimate.

Your hands moved instinctively, reaching for the violet armor. Your fingers brushed against the painted foam as you began lifting it, and she raised her arms to help you remove it. As the material slipped over her head and joined your costume on the floor, your eyes met again, and the reality of the moment hit you both. This wasn’t a fantasy anymore—it was real.

The tension between you crackled as your hands began to explore one another’s bodies, mapping out the skin that was previously an avatar. Each touch was deliberate, each caress more intimate than anything you had shared in Infinity. It was as if you were finally free to feel everything you had only imagined in the game.

Heejin’s breath hitched as your hands slid around her waist, pulling her closer. She could feel the heat of your skin against hers, the rhythm of your heartbeat matching her own. It was different from the game—the sensations were more raw, more intense. Every inch of her body was alive with anticipation.

Slowly, your hands moved to her back, unclasping the layer of fabric that separated you. As her undergarments fell away, Heejin leaned into you, her lips finding you again. The kiss was slower this time, more deliberate, as you savored the feeling of being together without the virtual barrier.

“This...” Heejin whispered between kisses, her voice soft but filled with meaning. “This is what we were missing.”

Your hands roamed her body, your touch sending shivers down her spine. “Yeah,” you murmured, your voice low and breathless. “We don’t have to hold back anymore.”

The world outside faded away, leaving only you and Heejin, wrapped in a warmth that felt both profound and familiar. Every touch, every kiss held an unspoken promise, slowly dismantling the barriers of your virtual past and grounding you in the undeniable reality of this moment.

You pulled her close, sinking gently onto the soft floor, her breaths mingling with yours as the heat between you intensified. Here, in this quiet sanctuary, there was no pretense—just two people, stripped of all facades, exposed and vulnerable in the most beautiful way. This was a release of everything you’d been holding back, a connection neither of you could deny any longer.

Your lips brushed over her neck, coaxing a soft gasp from Heejin as her hands tightened around you, as if to steady herself in the vivid reality of the moment. Every kiss was a new discovery, an exploration of the person you had known deeply but were now feeling in a way you’d only dreamed of. Your hands drifted slowly down her body, savoring the warmth and softness of her skin. Heejin’s breath grew heavier, her body arching into you with each touch.

Heejin’s fingers wove into your hair, pulling you into a kiss that was both tender and charged with a deep, unspoken need. Her lips moved over yours with a mix of softness and intensity, as if savoring every moment of closeness. When her kisses traveled to your neck, you felt a warmth bloom between you, a gentle urgency in every touch that deepened the connection you both shared.

As a response, you let your lips trail down her body, leaving soft kisses along her chest and midriff. Her skin was warm and inviting beneath your lips, each kiss a way of conveying everything you felt. You continued slowly, savoring each inch, feeling her body respond to your touch.

When you reached her folds, you lingered, savoring the warmth of her body as you moved closer, your breath warm against her skin. Her taste was subtle and intoxicating, a hint of sweetness that seemed to draw you further into the intimacy, deepening your own arousal. The soft, responsive way her body moved beneath your touch only heightened your senses, each gentle shiver urging you onward as you let your kisses and touch communicate everything words couldn’t express.

A soft moan escaped Heejin’s lips, her fingers tightening in your hair as her breath quickened. Her sounds were quiet at first, then grew as she arched into you, each moan revealing her pleasure, her body attuned to every movement. Her voice, soft yet unmistakably filled with longing, filled the room, wrapping around you, encouraging you, drawing you closer.

Every movement was careful, deliberate, as you lost yourself in the closeness, the way her body responded to your touch. Her taste lingered on your lips, her scent surrounding you, blending with the warmth that continued to build between you, heightening the intensity with each passing second. Heejin’s soft moans became a melody, matching the rhythm of your shared connection, pulling you deeper into the moment.

In this timeless moment, there were no avatars, no screens—just the two of you, fully present, experiencing the depth of your bond in a way that was breathtaking and real. The intensity of your shared desire blended seamlessly with the vulnerability you both offered, crafting a connection that was as unforgettable as it was profound.

Heejin's eyes fluttered open, locking with yours as you positioned yourself between her parted thighs. Her pulse quickened, her body trembling with anticipation. "I want you," she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper. "I need you."

Your gaze softened, your thumb gently brushing away the tear that had escaped down her cheek. "I'm here," you murmured, your lips ghosting over hers. "I'll always be here for you, Heejin."

With a gentle thrust of your hips, you entered her, your eyes never leaving hers as you began to move. Heejin's fingers dug into your shoulders, her nails leaving faint crescent-shaped marks on your skin. A soft moan slipped past her lips as you filled her completely, the sensation unlike anything she had ever known.

You moved together, your bodies rocking in a slow, sensual rhythm. Your lips found the sensitive spot beneath her ear, your teeth grazing the delicate skin as you kissed and nipped along her neck. Heejin's hips lifted to meet yours, her body arching into your touch like a bow drawn taut.

The coil of pleasure within her tightened with each thrust, each caress of your hands on her skin. Your breath grew ragged against her ear, your movements becoming more urgent as you chased your shared release. Heejin could feel her own climax building, the heat within her threatening to consume her entire being.

"I'm close," you rasped, your voice strained with the effort to hold back. "Heejin, tell me when you're ready. I want to feel you come undone beneath me."

Heejin's nails raked down your back, urging you on as she teetered on the brink of ecstasy. "Dont stop" she gasped, her head falling back against the pillow. "I'm so close. Please, don't stop."

Your hips snapped forward, your thrusts becoming harder, faster as you felt Heejin's body begin to tighten around you. You covered her lips with yours, swallowing her cries of pleasure as her orgasm crashed over her like a tidal wave.

Heejin's body trembled and shook with pleasure as she reached her peak, her fingers digging into your back as she held onto you for dear life. Her breath hitched as she cried out, her pussy clenching and spasming around your length as she came undone beneath you.

The sensation of Heejin's climax enveloped you, utterly overwhelming as you found yourself beyond the point of restraint. With a final, profound plunge, you reached the pinnacle of your own pleasure. As you withdrew, your essence flowed forth, cascading across her folds, trailing up her torso to her stomach, and finally gracing her breasts with a warm, intimate embrace.

Your body shuddered as you caught your breath, your hips still jerking slightly as the aftershocks of your orgasm rippled through you. You pressed your forehead against hers, your heavy breathing syncing up as you both rode out the waves of pleasure together.

The room was filled with the sounds of your heavy breaths and the lingering scent of your lovemaking. Your heart raced in your chest as you looked into Heejin's eyes, seeing the same intensity and passion reflected back at you.

You leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips as you both came down from your high. Pulling her close, you held her tightly against you as you lay there, basking in the afterglow of your shared climax. It was a moment you knew you would never forget.

You remained intertwined, your bodies still joined, hearts beating in sync as you slowly drifted back down to earth. Your hand sought out Heejin’s, fingers intertwining as you brushed a sweat-dampened strand of hair from her face.

Heejin rested her head against your chest, tracing gentle circles on your skin with her fingers as you both caught your breath. There was a sense of calm between you now, a peaceful silence that spoke volumes about what you had just shared.

You stroked her hair softly, your heart still pounding in your chest, but there was a new sense of ease in how you held each other. You had peeled away all the layers of your virtual world and stepped fully into reality, facing the rawness of your feelings without hesitation.

“This,” Heejin whispered, her voice soft yet filled with meaning. “This is more than I ever imagined.”

You smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of her head. “Yeah,” you agreed, your voice low and tender. “This is what we’ve been waiting for.”

As the soft light of the room dimmed around you, the weight of your shared reality settled in, more tangible than any moment you had experienced in the game. There were no barriers left—no pixels, no layers of code, just your hearts and bodies, fully exposed to one another.

You pressed another soft kiss to Heejin’s forehead, the warmth between you undeniable. As you lay there, content in each other's presence, reality began to creep back in. You had crossed the boundary from virtual to real, and now, there was no turning back.

Heejin looked up at you, her eyes still bright with affection. "What happens now?" she asked, her voice quiet but filled with hope.

You smiled, brushing a thumb over her cheek. "I think," you began, your tone steady, "we make sure this becomes part of our real lives. Not just some moment, but something we build on. You and me."

Heejin’s heart swelled at your words, her hand gently squeezing yours. "I want that, too," she whispered, her smile reflecting yours.

After a moment of comfortable silence, you sat up, your body still warm and glistening from the closeness you’d shared. "We should probably get back," you murmured, glancing over at Heejin with a soft smile. "The girls are still with my sister."

Heejin chuckled, sitting up beside you and brushing her hair back. "Yeah, I’m sure they’ve been spoiling her."

You rose to your feet and offered her a hand, helping her up. "She’s pretty cute," you said with a grin, "so I can’t really blame them."

You both laughed, and for a moment, you held onto each other’s gaze. The quiet understanding between you felt like the beginning of something real—something you both wanted to explore.

You helped clean her up before gathering your costumes, and together, you slipped into your outfits. The air was filled with a relaxed ease as you each adjusted your armor, side by side, occasionally stealing glances that held all the warmth of the moment you’d just shared. Heejin adjusted the last piece of her costume with a final, satisfied pat, flashing you a smile that seemed to mirror your own.

Once ready, you exchanged a look that needed no words. This was a new chapter for you both, and you felt the unspoken excitement of stepping into it together.

Hand in hand, you made your way back to the dressing room. The moment you stepped inside, Nari’s delighted voice filled the air as she spotted you. She was sitting on the floor, surrounded by Heejin's fellow members, who were all laughing and doting on her, filling the room with lighthearted chatter.

As soon as Nari wrapped herself around your leg, her face lit up with excitement. "Oppa! Unnie! There you guys are!" she chirped, her eyes bright with joy. "We are having so much fun, I learned how to do the splits" She looked up at you, clearly not ready for the day to end.

Heejin grinned at the sight, her heart warming at how easily Nari had fit in with her members. You smiled down at your sister, and though you hated to interrupt her fun, you knew it was time to leave.

"Thats amazing, Nari, but we have to say goodbye to the girl now," you said gently but firmly.

Immediately, Nari’s face fell. "Nooo, I don’t wanna go!" she whined, her hold on your leg tightening. "Can’t we stay longer?"

You glanced at Heejin, who gave you an understanding look, her eyes soft with affection. You smiled, then knelt down to meet Nari’s eyes. "I’m sure we’ll see them again soon," you said, your tone reassuring. "Promise."

Nari pouted but eventually relented, giving all the members a quick hug goodbye before holding your hand.

As Heejin walked both of you towards the door, the members exchanged curious glances. The second the door clicked shut behind you, the room exploded with excited whispers. Haseul leaned forward, eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Okay, spill. Who was that?"

The other girls eagerly chimed in, all buzzing with questions.

Heejin, still feeling the lingering warmth of your hand in hers, blushed slightly but couldn’t stop the smile spreading across her face. She glanced at the door, already missing you, then looked back at her members, trying to play it cool.

"That was a friend," she said, laughing softly as she shrugged. "We met online."

[queenshelby]

AMERICAN GIRL (PART SIX)

Pairing: Tommy Shelby x Grace's Stepdaughter!Reader

Warning: Grace is a bully, infidelity, taboo

Over the next few days, you tried to avoid Tommy at all costs and when Ada invited you and Emma to stay with her for a few nights in London,  you couldn't help but accept her offer with open arms.

The bustling city provided a much-needed distraction from the constant tension that seemed to have surfaced since that evening at the Garrison and Ada even took you shopping to help you find something elegant.

One evening, however, you decided to venture out on your own , eager to enjoy the anonymity that the city offered and explore the vibrant nightlife. It was then that you stumbled upon a lavish and elegant establishment, nestled in an unsuspecting corner, away from the main streets.

There was a guard or so called bouncer in front of the door, telling you that women were not  allowed in on their own. The place was exclusive, and you couldn't help but feel intrigued, craving a taste of this mysterious new luxury.

Although you wanted to press the issue, a sense of caution and self-preservation stopped you from making a fuss.

"You are not a performer, are you Love?" another man in a suit asked just as you were about to leave . The intrigue in his eyes was unmistakable, and a slight smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth.

"And what makes you ask me that?" you inquired with a hint of amusement, raising an eyebrow.

"Ah, it's just a hunch, Sweetheart," he replied, slowly letting his gaze roam over your figure, trying to gauge your response. The way he eyed you filled you with a curious mixture of unease and exhilaration. "Because, if you are, in fact, a performer, I can let you in," he continued, his voice low and seductive, daring you to challenge him.

"Well, as a matter of fact, I am," you replied boldly, with just enough of a flicker in your eyes to make him believe you. "I am singer and, after few whiskeys on the house, I may even be happy enough to perform for free,"  you added, the corner of your lip quirking upwards in a challenging grin.

The man looked at you with a newfound sense of amusement and interest, a slow smirk spreading across his face before he opened the door, waving you in.

As you stepped inside, you were immediately greeted by a world unlike any other; dimly lit, adorned with red velvet drapes, and filled with the sound of loud, lively jazz music. It was a world shrouded in mystery, decadence and, above all, allure.

As you ventured further into this unknown territory, your pulse quickened, and a heady thrill surged through your veins. The intoxicating atmosphere seemed almost tangible, and you couldn't help but be drawn into its hypnotic embrace.

Waiters adorned in crisp suits skillfully weaved through tables, expertly balancing trays laden with amber-colored liquid concoctions. A woman with fiery red hair, accentuated by an elegant sequined dress, sauntered around the baby grand piano with a predatory grace. Her voice intermingled with the music, creating an atmosphere that was as captivating as it was provocative.

"A drink for you ma'am?"  offered a waiter in a pristine suit, his eyes sharp and observant. The novelty of this enchanting place hadn't worn off yet, but his hawkish attention made you a little nervous.

"Yes, please. I'll have whatever you recommend," you responded, attempting to match his neutral expression with one of your own.

The waiter then gently placed an elegant, stemmed glass before you, adorned with a delicate slice of orange peel expertly twirled over the top.

"Will you be performing?" he too asked, seeing that you were on your own and not part of the usual décor that littered the establishment. This question caught you a bit off guard, but it also brought along a spark of excitement in your chest; you had not prepared for such a turn events, but it seemed to be unfolding quite nicely in front of your eyes.

"Yes, I suppose I will," you responded confidently, holding his gaze for a moment before turning away to scan the stage area.  The waiter nodded and walked away, leaving you to ponder your decision. You briefly wondered if you had made the right choice, but your curiosity and the thrill of the unknown whispered in your ear like a silent siren call. The temptation to stay and lose yourself in this immersive world was too enticing to ignore.

You scanned the elegant room with its sultry atmosphere until your gaze landed upon a familiar figure in the corner, sitting with his back to you. Thomas.

His presence sent your heart into a frenzy, causing it to gallop uncontrollably inside your chest. A concoction of emotions surged through you, and you realized that you cared too much for someone who was as good as forbidden.

Why was he here, out of all places, you wondered  ? A strange coincidence perhaps. You considered leaving, sparing yourself the torture of watching him from afar, yet your curiosity anchored you to the spot.

Your plan needed a rethink. With newfound resolve, you walked up to the woman on stage as she took a break and gently tapped her on the shoulder. She paused what she was doing, turned to you, and raised a perfectly arched eyebrow.

"Yes, dear?" she inquired with a knowing smile.

"I was wondering if I could sing a few songs during your interval," you confessed with a bashful smile. The woman, seemingly amused by your proposition, studied you for a few beats before nodding her head.

"Absolutely, darling. The stage is yours," she replied, extending her hand towards the microphone.

With a grateful nod, you made your way onto the platform, pulling in a measured breath to steady your nerves.

With trembling fingers, you adjusted the microphone stand and clasped it tightly to ground yourself in the swirling sea of emotions threatening to consume you. The gentle hum of conversation gradually receded, replaced by an expectant hush that blanketed the entire room which is when you began to sing.

The words and melody came almost naturally to you  , weaving together an intricate tapestry of emotion and sound. Each note resonated deep within you, released from a secret chamber that had been longing to be opened.

The enraptured patrons listened intently as they sipped their martinis and bourbons, the room's electricity shifting palpably, settling around you with an intensity that left you breathless. You felt exposed and vulnerable through each verse, and yet you couldn't deny the uninhibited freedom that singing had awakened within you.

But you did not just sing, you performed and, soon enough, the band that had been taking a break joined in. You loosened your hair  from its tidy bun and let it cascade down your shoulders, dancing wildly, as your voice weaved in and out of the pulsating rhythm. There was a wild magic in every movement, a seductive allure in the lyrics you effortlessly strung together. It was a captivating performance that left everyone motionless, including Thomas.

As you sang, you forgot about the forbidden nature of him, the danger that surrounded his presence, his empire of deception and secrets, and instead lost yourself in the music, letting go of all inhibitions.

Men cheered  and clapped, while women looked on with admiration and envy. You swayed along with the melody, the enchanting notes escaping your lips effortlessly. Each and every word seemed like vows whispered only to the man who had captured your heart, despite knowing that their paths were meant to never cross.

When you finally finished singing and the band drew their instruments to a close, the room erupted into thunderous applause, but before you knew it, there were two hands on you, ushering you off the stage, through the back.

"That's enough Love," Thomas murmured in your ear. "You had enough attention tonight, eh," he added, a hint of frustration and annoyance leaking into his voice. You were surprised by his appearance, but it thrilled you even more. 

"But I just started," you protested half-heartedly, relishing his possessive nature. Thomas simply shook his head, his expression remaining firm as he pulled you behind the velvet curtain while the red-haired woman took over again, thanking you for your impeccable performance before signing a tune of her own.

"It's time for you to leave," he declared, his voice low and authoritative.

"Why?" you asked. "There is no harm in me singing?" you queried with an arched brow, searching his eyes for reasonable justification for his sudden protectiveness.

His hold around your waist intensified as he pulled you closer, causing involuntary shivers to ripple through you. 

"That's not what concerns me," Thomas confessed gruffly. The corners of his lips twitched almost imperceptibly. "But these men are unpredictable, high on fucking cocaine and just waiting for someone like you," he began to say before being cut off by you.

"You know what I think Tommy?" you quipped, feeling a surge of courage thanks to the adrenaline and confidence from your performance. "You are jealous,"  you accused, looking straight into his eyes, challenging him to disagree.

The atmosphere between you and Thomas grew tenser as he held your gaze, searching for a response that somehow justified his feelings. You could see the internal struggle and conflict within him. He was not a man easily swayed by his emotions, yet here you were, igniting feelings in him that he couldn't suppress easily.

"I am not fucking jealous Love," he replied, barely hiding the irritation in his voice.

You smiled wryly, knowing deep down that your suspicion was not far off. The flicker of something unreadable in Thomas' eyes only served to heighten your curiosity and spur you on.

"Oh, I think you are," you pressed on. "You can't stand other men giving me attention. You can't even stand them looking at me for too long," you persisted, daring to call out his jealousy with the boldness that came from being under the spotlight.

Thomas' eyes flashed, but he didn't deny it. Instead, he tightened his hold around your waist and steered you out of the back door, away from the prying eyes of the crowd.

The chilly air greeted your warm skin as you stumbled out onto the dimly lit alleyway.

"Tell me that I am right," you demanded as, suddenly, Thomas pressed you against the cold brick wall, his body hovering close, pinning you in place.

His blue eyes glittered with an intensity that was at once alarming and exhilarating, a quiet storm brewing in their depths. Every rational thought in your head seemed to fade away as you found yourself drowning in the all-consuming presence that was Thomas Shelby.

"Listen Love," he growled lowly, a rough quality weaving into his voice. "You're playing with fire here, and you don't even realize it." Thomas' voice was barely a whisper, a low warning that only served to fuel the flame crackling between them. You stared up at him, refusing to back down from the challenge in his eyes.

"Then I suppose I'll burn," you replied, your voice steady and unafraid, igniting his gaze.

Thomas leaned in, and you closed your eyes, anticipating the touch of his lips on yours. Instead, he trailed his nose along your jawline, inhaling deeply as if desperate to etch your scent into his memory.

When his lips found your ear, he whispered, "You don't know what you do to me."

The sensation of his breath against your skin caused an ache to bloom within you, deepening with every brush of his lips against your delicate flesh. His hands slid down your arms, capturing your wrists before gently pinning them above your head. The contrast between his possessive gesture and the way he caressed your skin with feather-light strokes was both intoxicating and maddening.

You gasped, the contact sending your thoughts reeling.

"Fucking kiss me already," you  whispered, urgent need clawing its way out of your throat. You opened your eyes, meeting Thomas' gaze head-on. The hunger in his eyes was impossible to miss, mirroring the longing that gnawed at your very insides.

" Is that what you really want?" he crooned, his warm breath caressing the shell of your ear. Your body trembled almost imperceptibly, aching for his touch, for the feel of his lips pressed against yours. The suspense was overwhelming, the promise of something delicious lingering precariously close.

"Yes," you replied breathlessly, trying to keep your desperation in check as, finally, he claimed your lips with his.  The taste of whiskey and tobacco lingered on his tongue, igniting new sensations within you. When he deepened the kiss, there was an intensity that resonated in the way his hands slid down your arms and then around your waist, like he couldn't bear to let you go.

The way Thomas kissed you—with a passion that felt unmatched, as if he had been searching for something in you and finally discovered a hidden key to unlock the door. The exhilarating feeling of his strong hands exploring your supple curves only added fuel to the fire that burned relentlessly inside of you, awakening your senses, making you feel more alive than ever.

As if he could sense the effect he had on you, Thomas pulled away, leaving you both breathless. 

"I am staying at the Dorchester," he revealed with a husky whisper, his gaze still locked on your flushed face. "And I want you to come with me tonight," Thomas urged softly, his voice thick with desire and unspoken promises.

But instead of immediately responding, you hesitated. After all, venturing off into the unknown could lead to thrilling experiences, but there was always a chance they might forever change your life as he would be your first. 

"Look at me," he whispered tenderly, brushing a stray lock of hair from your forehead. "I promise you; nothing will happen that you don't want to." His reassurance touched your heart as he leaned into gently place a soft kiss on your forehead.

"Okay, so lead the way then," you murmured, feeling the warmth of his breath against your skin.

Your decision made, a shiver of excitement and anticipation raced through you.

You straightened your dress, smoothing out the creases as Thomas lead you down the dark alleyway towards the luxurious hotel that he was staying in, which was just a short stroll from the establishment you had just sung at.  

***

Several minutes later, you arrived  at the Dorchester, a magnificent building with an elegant exterior. Thomas held the door open for you, and you stepped into the grand foyer, your heels clicking against the marble floor.

You could feel the weight of the staff's curious gazes on you, as whispers filtered through the air, but Thomas paid them no mind, his hand rested securely on the small of your back as he guided you towards the elevator.

The doors slid open with a soft ding, and the pair of you stepped inside. Thomas slid his key into the slot and pressed the button for the penthouse suite.

The elevator ascended smoothly, and your heart raced with every floor that passed. When the door finally slid open, you stepped out into the luxurious penthouse, your eyes wide with awe at the opulence surrounding you.

Thomas walked over to the expansive windows, his hands thrust deep into his pockets as he took in the view of London below. You lingered behind, taking in the surroundings of the lavish room. The plush carpet felt soft under your heels, and the scent of fine leather and rich mahogany filled the air.

Tommy turned to face you, a sensual smile on his lips.

"What do you think, Love?" he asked, gesturing to the surroundings before approaching you and caressing your face. 

"I think it's perfect,"  you replied, your voice barely above a whisper, as you leaned into his touch.

Thomas leaned in, brushing his lips gently against yours, sending a wave of pleasure surging through your veins. You couldn't deny the chemistry that sizzled between you, nor could you resist the temptation of finally crossing the line that you had both been dancing around for so long.

The tension between you had been building for weeks, and it was a spark that was ready to ignite into a raging inferno. The connection you shared was magnetic, a force so powerful that it seemed impossible to resist.

"Fuck, Y/N," Thomas murmured against your lips, his voice low and gruff. "You have no idea how much I want you."

His hands roamed over your body, leaving a trail of heated desire in their wake. You gasped as his fingers brushed against your breasts, the silk dress you were wearing offering little protection against his touch.

A soft whimper escaped your lips as he slowly began to undo the buttons on your dress, his fingers fumbling slightly in his haste to touch your naked skin.

"Tommy wait," you breathed, placing a hand on his chest to halt his movements. He looked at you, his eyes darkening with desire at the sound of your plea.

"What is it, Love?" he asked, his voice low and husky, filled with a barely restrained hunger that sent shivers running down your spine.

"I have never  done this before," you confessed, biting your lower lip nervously, as if the words tasted wrong on your tongue. Thomas paused, his hands stilling on your body as he looked at you with a tenderness that took your breath away.

"Do you want to stop?"  Thomas whispered, his voice barely above a whisper.

"No," you replied, your voice firm despite the nervous tremor that ran through it. "I want this. I want you," you assured him, your voice filled with conviction, as you looked deep into his eyes.

Thomas nodded, understanding dawning in his gaze before leaning down to capture your lips with his own. The kiss was slow and passionate, a promise of the pleasures to come. His hands returned to your buttons, finishing what he had started.

The dress opened, revealing the thin lace lingerie you wore underneath. Thomas trailed his fingers along the exposed skin, making you shiver with anticipation. He cupped your breasts, his thumbs brushing over your nipples, sending sparks of pleasure coursing through your body.

"Fuck, you're beautiful," Thomas breathed, his eyes raking over your body.

He lowered his head, taking one of your nipples into his mouth through the lace fabric.

You gasped as his tongue swirled over the sensitive bud, sending waves of pleasure coursing through your body. Your fingers dug into his shoulders, holding on for dear life as he continued to tease and tantalize you.

"Fuck," you breathed, your head falling back as you surrendered to the overwhelming sensations. "Please, Tommy, I need more."

Thomas raised his head, looking at you with dark, passion-filled eyes. "Begging already, Love?" he teased, a wicked smile twisting his lips as he finally guided you towards the large four poster bed. 

You didn't dignify that with a response, your gaze locked onto his as he slowly began to remove your clothing. The anticipation was almost unbearable as he painstakingly revealed inch after inch of your skin until you were left in nothing more than your panties.

"Lie down for me,"  Thomas commanded, his voice hoarse with desire. You obliged, your heart pounding in your chest as you sank back onto the cool sheets, your body bared for him.

He looked like a predator preparing to claim his prize, a dark and dangerous look in his eyes that made your insides clench with need. Slowly, deliberately, he began to strip off his own clothing.

You couldn't tear your gaze away from the sight of him, the rippling muscles of his chest and abdomen, the hardness of his erection straining against the confines of his trousers. 

"I can't fucking wait to taste you, Love,"  Thomas growled, his eyes glinting with hunger as he crawled up the bed, settling himself between your legs.

He parted your thighs, his breath hot against your skin as his fingers brushed against the dampness of your panties.

"Fuck, Tommy," you whispered, writhing beneath him as he teased you, his movements slow and maddening. You could feel yourself growing wetter by the second, your desire for him reaching new heights.

"Please," you begged, arching your hips up towards him, desperate for release.

Thomas chuckled low in his throat, the sound reverberating through your entire body.

"God, you're impatient," he teased, his fingers dancing over your damp folds, lingering just outside of your entrance. You whimpered with frustration, your fingers gripping the sheets tightly.

"Tommy, please," you begged again, your voice trembling with desire. Thomas finally took mercy on you and pulled off your  soaked underwear, leaving you completely bared to him. He leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to your inner thigh, sending a shiver down your spine.

"You're so fucking perfect," Thomas whispered, his voice filled with reverence. He looked up at you, his eyes filled with a fierce determination that made your heart race before, finally, liking  the tip of his tongue over your entrance.

You cried out at the contact, your back arching off the bed as he began to tease and taste you, his movements slow and measured.

"Fuck," you gasped, your fingers desperately gripping the sheets beneath you as he sucked your clit into his mouth, rolling his tongue over the sensitive bundle of nerves.

Your breathing grew ragged, each breath sounding like a soft moan as he continued to worship you with his mouth, his tongue delving inside of you, tasting your sweetness.

Your hips bucked wildly, desperate for him to bring you closer to the edge, but Thomas had no intention of rushing. Every lick, every kiss he planted on your heated flesh was done with deliberate slowness, his eyes never leaving yours.

"Fuck, Tommy. This feels so good," you moaned, not knowing fully what was actually happening to you. You never felt like this before  ; this overwhelming wave of pleasure and desire, this sensation of losing control. It seemed to come from the depths of your very being, rising to the surface as your body trembled under Thomas's expert touch.

"God, you taste like heaven," Thomas growled, his voice thick with desire as he continued to explore you with his mouth. You could feel the orgasm building inside of you, the knot of pleasure growing tighter and tighter with each passing second.

Your breath hitched, your hands clenched into fists, and your toes curled with pleasure as Thomas continued to devour you.

Suddenly, he pulled away, leaving you panting and writhing on the bed, desperate for the release that had been just within your grasp. You looked down at him, your eyes filled with a mixture of frustration and desire.

"Why did you stop?" you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

Thomas looked up at you, his eyes dark and full of desire.

"I want to feel you come apart on my cock, Love," he said, his voice rough and raw. You nodded eagerly, your body trembling with anticipation.

Slowly, Thomas crawled up your body, his fingers tracing patterns on your skin as he went. He captured your lips in a searing kiss, his tongue delving into your mouth, tasting yourself on his lips. It was filthy and primal, and you couldn't get enough of it.

Thomas' body hovered over yours, his muscles rippling in the dim light of the room. He was a vision of masculinity and power, and you couldn't believe that he was here with you. His lips trailed down your neck, leaving a trail of fire in their wake.

"Open your legs, Love," Thomas growled, his voice deep and raw with desire. You complied, allowing him to settle between your thighs. He rubbed his cock against your wet folds, teasing you and making you gasp with pleasure.

Thomas was a master of anticipation, drawing out the moment until your body was trembling with need. 

"Go slow, please," you said, reminding him that you never had sex before .

There was a look of concern that crossed his face for a moment, but then he leaned down to kiss you with a passion that stole your breath away. His mouth devoured yours as his hands roamed your curves with reverence.

When he broke the kiss, Thomas whispered, "We don't have to if you, -" he began to say but you cut him off.  "I want to. I trust you," you replied, looking him in the eyes. A soft smile tugged at the corner of Thomas' lips before he nodded.

"I will go slow. I promise, Love,"  Thomas breathed the words against your lips before he reached down between your bodies to grip his cock. He guided it toward your entrance, teasing you by rubbing the head of his cock along your wet folds again.

You whimpered, your body trembling beneath him, begging for more.

Slowly, Thomas pushed inside of you, the feeling of your warmth enveloping him causing a low growl to rumble in his chest. You gasped at the sensation of him filling you up. It hurt, but it also felt so good.

" Oh God, Thomas..." you breathed out, digging your nails into his shoulders as he paused, allowing you to adjust to his size.

Thomas kissed you desperately, his tongue driving into your mouth as if he was trying to convey how much this moment meant to him. You tasted whiskey and something bitter, but that only turned you on more.

"You're so fucking tight, Love," Thomas grunted, his hips starting to move in slow, teasing thrusts that quickly gained intensity. Each plunge of his cock pushed you further up the bed, your body writhing beneath him.

Your breath caught in your throat as he hit a spot deep inside of you that triggered a wave of unparalleled pleasure. Thomas grinned against your neck, his thrusts quickening as he pressed his tongue against the sensitive skin beneath your ear.

"I can feel you, Love, clenching around me. It feels so fucking good," Thomas groaned. His hand snaked down your body, finding the swollen bud of your clit. He rubbed slow, gentle circles around the sensitive bundle of nerves, eliciting a guttural moan from deep within your chest.

Your hips lifted off the bed in a desperate attempt to grind yourself against his fingers, but Thomas was relentless, his rhythm steady and unyielding.

"That's it, Love. Let go for me," Thomas coaxed, his voice strained with desire. He moved his hand from your clit, replacing it with his lips as he sought out the sweet spot just below your ear. "Come for me, Y/N."

 He had said your name, and the sound of it on his lips sent shivers down your spine.

With that, you let go, your orgasm rushing through you like a tidal wave. Your back arched off the bed as wave after wave of pleasure washed over you, leaving you breathless and trembling under Thomas's powerful frame.

His thrusts grew more frantic as your inner muscles clenched around him, milking him for all that he had. The sensation of your warm release coating his cock triggered his own orgasm, and Thomas roared as he filled you up with hot jets of his seed.

He continued to thrust into you as you both came down from your highs, prolonging the exquisite pleasure that held you captive.

As you lay beneath him, limp and thoroughly satiated, Thomas rolled off of you and gathered you in his arms. He pulled you against his chest, tucking your head under his chin as he breathed in the scent of your hair.

"Fuck, Love," he muttered, his voice hoarse from the force of his release. "That was... incredible."

You couldn't help the smile that spread across your face.

Your entire body still tingled from the mind-blowing orgasm Thomas had given you. You felt like putty in his arms, completely content and relaxed. Thomas brushed a stray lock of hair from your forehead, leaving a soft kiss in its place.

"You okay, Love?" he asked, concern etched on his face as he looked down at you. You nodded, still unable to find your voice. Thomas grinned, pride radiating from him.

"Good," he said, his voice filled with satisfaction.

"You're so fucking beautiful, Y/N. The moment I saw you, I knew I had to have you."

You looked up at Thomas, your eyes meeting his as he spoke. His gaze was intense, and you could feel the desire simmering beneath the surface.

"No one can ever know about this, Tommy ," you whispered, your voice barely audible.

"I know, Love," he reassured you, his voice low and husky. "But I am going to struggle to keep my hands off you, Y/N." The way he said your name made your heart flutter. It was as if you were the only person in the world that existed to him. You knew you shouldn't feel this way about him, but you couldn't help yourself.

You stayed in his arms for what seemed like hours, basking in the afterglow of your lovemaking. The world outside of the penthouse room seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you in a bubble of intimacy until, eventually, you fell asleep in Tommy's arms.

Tags:

@sunbeamseas @saint-ackerman @oatmealisweird @naxxsstuff @amanda08319 @r-m-cidnah @elysiannook @cillshot @infireddabdab @tastycakee @harrysbestiee @lilybabe22 @adalynlowell @henrywintersdearestgirl @ietss @thatgirlthatreadswattpad @ryiamarie @axionn

@heidimoreton @nela-cutie @futurecorps3 @delishen @nosebleeds-247 @thirteenis-myluckynumber @gills-lounge @hjmalmed @lost-fantasy @tiredkitten @sidechrisporn @smallsoulunknown @charqing-qing @hopefulinlove @aporiasposts @shycrybaby @me-and-your-husband @hjmalmed @lacontroller1991 @galxydefender @aporiasposts

@galxydefender @hunnibearrr @saint-ackerman @lunyyx @gentlemonsterjennie1 @ihavealotoffandomssorry @nadloves @lost-fantasy @nolucesn@mcavoy-girl @hjmalmed @bloodybagels @obeyme4life @richiesgroupie @blushykiss @tatumrileyslover @teawithsatanx @orijanko @rhaenyra4ever @xcinnamonmalfoyx @budugu @nadloves @kmc1989 @bloodybagels @obeyme4life @richiesgroupie @forgottenpeakywriter @smailaway @sophiaaguirred @blondie-22

[mxl633]

a Web of Love

Spiderwoman!Yunjin x Reader

Synopsis: One night, after Yunjin returns from her crime-fighting duties, the two embark on an exhilarating swing through the city that brings them closer than ever. Between playful banter, stolen kisses, and heart-pounding adventures, Y/N learns that love with a superhero is full of surprises—but it’s also filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering trust

Warnings: pure fluff ,synopsis says it all

Word count:2.3k

You had never quite gotten used to the idea of dating a superhero. Every night was a balance between quiet solitude and the thrill of knowing your girlfriend was out there saving the world—or at least your corner of the city. Tonight, like many others, you found yourself perched on the rooftop of your apartment, a blanket wrapped around your shoulders as the cool night air brushed against your skin. Above you, stars dotted the sky, their faint glow fighting against the city lights below.

You checked your phone out of habit, not expecting any messages but still hoping for one. It was past midnight now, the time when Yunjin would usually finish her patrol. It wasn’t that you minded waiting; in fact, you enjoyed these moments of stillness, knowing that any second she could come swooping in, her playful grin lighting up the night.

And right on cue, you heard it—the faint whoosh of webs shooting across buildings. You looked up just in time to see her silhouette flying through the air, her figure moving with effortless grace, as if the entire city was her playground. Spider-Woman. Yunjin. Your girlfriend.

She landed softly on the rooftop, the moonlight casting a silver glow over her suit. Her face was still hidden behind her mask, but you could tell she was smiling by the way she carried herself. She was always full of energy after a night out swinging through the city.

“You’ve been waiting long?” she asked, her voice slightly muffled by the mask as she approached you.

“Not really,” you said, smiling up at her. “Just a couple of hours.”

She winced, clearly feeling guilty. “Sorry about that. There was a little more action tonight than usual.”

“Saving the world again, I assume?” you teased, pulling the blanket tighter around your shoulders as the breeze picked up.

“Something like that.” She laughed, finally pulling off her mask. Her hair was slightly tousled, but her eyes sparkled as they always did when she looked at you. “I missed you,” she said, her voice softer now.

You smiled warmly. “I missed you too.”

Yunjin sat down beside you, pulling you into a hug. You let yourself relax in her arms, your head resting on her shoulder as you breathed in her familiar scent, a mix of adrenaline and something distinctly her. It was always a strange contrast—how she could be out there fighting crime one minute, and the next, she’d be here with you, completely at peace.

“So, how was it tonight?” you asked, breaking the silence. “Did you catch any bad guys?”

“Just a few. A robbery downtown and a couple of guys trying to steal a car.” She spoke casually, as if stopping crime was no big deal. “Nothing too serious, though. Pretty standard stuff.”

You looked up at her, admiring how calm she was about all of it. “You make it sound like you’re just running errands.”

She laughed, her arm tightening around your shoulders. “To be honest, it kind of feels like that sometimes. You’d be surprised how much of this job is just chasing down petty criminals.”

You shook your head, smiling. “You’re amazing, you know that?”

She looked down at you, her smile softening. “Not as amazing as you for waiting up for me every night.”

“Hey, someone’s got to make sure Spider-Woman stays out of trouble.”

“Oh, is that your job now?” she teased, leaning in a little closer.

“Someone’s got to do it,” you replied, your heart skipping a beat as she closed the distance between you.

Yunjin’s gaze flickered down to your lips for a brief moment before she leaned in, brushing her lips softly against yours. The kiss was tender, full of warmth and affection, the kind of kiss that made the world disappear for a moment. You closed your eyes, letting yourself melt into the feeling, her presence grounding you in a way nothing else could.

When she finally pulled back, her eyes lingered on yours, a small, almost shy smile playing at the corners of her lips. “I’ve been waiting to do that all night,” she whispered.

You laughed softly, feeling your cheeks heat up. “You could’ve done it sooner if you weren’t out fighting crime.”

She chuckled, resting her forehead against yours. “You’re right. I need to get my priorities straight.”

For a while, the two of you sat in comfortable silence, the city’s hum fading into the background as you held each other. These were the moments you cherished most—when it was just you and Yunjin, no masks, no superhero responsibilities, just the two of you sharing a quiet night under the stars.

But, of course, Yunjin was never one to let things stay quiet for too long.

After a few minutes, she shifted, looking at you with that mischievous glint in her eyes that you knew all too well. “You know what we haven’t done in a while?”

You raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“Gone for a swing,” she said, her grin widening as she stood up and held out her hand to you. “Come on, it’ll be fun.”

You blinked at her, half-laughing in disbelief. “Are you serious?”

“Dead serious,” she replied, wiggling her fingers at you. “I promise I won’t drop you.”

You hesitated for a second, glancing down at the city streets far below. The idea of being carried through the air like that was both terrifying and thrilling. But then you looked at Yunjin, her eyes sparkling with excitement, and you couldn’t help but smile. You trusted her completely.

“All right,” you said, taking her hand. “But if you drop me, I’m breaking up with you.”

She laughed, pulling you to your feet. “Deal. But you’re not getting rid of me that easily.”

With that, Yunjin wrapped her arm securely around your waist and pulled you close. You could feel her warmth against you as she fired a web at a nearby building, and before you knew it, the two of you were soaring through the air.

The wind rushed past your face, and your heart leapt into your throat as Yunjin swung you both effortlessly between the towering buildings. You clung to her, your breath catching in your chest, but the fear quickly gave way to exhilaration. The city lights blurred below you, and for a moment, it felt like you were flying.

Yunjin let out a joyful laugh, her voice full of pure, unfiltered happiness. “Isn’t this amazing?”

You couldn’t help but laugh with her, the adrenaline making your heart race. “Okay, I’ll admit, this is pretty cool!”

She grinned, spinning both of you in mid-air before gracefully landing on another rooftop. Your legs were a little shaky when you touched the ground, but you were still grinning from ear to ear.

“That was incredible,” you breathed, slightly out of breath. “I can’t believe you do that every day.”

Yunjin smiled, her arm still around your waist. “You get used to it after a while. But it’s a lot more fun with you.”

You looked up at her, your heart swelling with affection. “I guess that makes me your sidekick now, huh?”

“More like my partner in crime-fighting,” she said, leaning down to kiss you again. This time, the kiss was deeper, more passionate, the thrill of the swing still lingering between you. Her lips were soft and warm against yours, and you felt yourself get lost in the moment, your arms wrapping around her neck as you pulled her closer.

When she pulled back, her forehead rested against yours, and you could feel her breath against your lips. “You make everything better, you know that?” she whispered.

You smiled, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. “I could say the same about you.”

For the rest of the night, you and Yunjin stayed on that rooftop, talking about everything and nothing at the same time. She told you stories about her latest adventures as Spider-Woman, and you shared the little things that had happened during your day. It was peaceful, being up there with her, away from the noise and chaos of the city below.

As the first hints of dawn began to creep over the horizon, you yawned, leaning your head on Yunjin’s shoulder. “I think it’s time for bed,” you mumbled sleepily.

Yunjin smiled, pressing a kiss to the top of your head. “Yeah, we should probably get some sleep.”

She stood up, helping you to your feet before wrapping her arm around your waist once more. “Let’s get you home,” she said, her voice soft and comforting.

With one last swing, Yunjin brought you back to your apartment, gently lowering you onto the balcony before landing beside you. You turned to her, still feeling a little light-headed from the adrenaline and the late hour.

“Thanks for the adventure,” you said, smiling up at her.

“Anytime,” she replied, her eyes full of warmth. “Get some rest, okay?”

You nodded, leaning in for one last kiss before turning to head inside. But just as you reached the door, Yunjin called out to you.

“Hey,” she said, her voice soft. “I love you.”

You smiled, your heart fluttering at her words. “I love you too, Yunjin.”

And with that, you disappeared into your apartment, leaving Spider-Woman standing on your balcony, watching over you as always.

[kingkaizen]

𝓭𝓪𝓭!𝓰𝓸𝓳𝓸 𝓼𝓬𝓮𝓷𝓪𝓻𝓲𝓸𝓼

∘ desc: moments with your shared daughter *christmas edition*

∘ ft: gojo

∘ includes: christmas traditions (also other winter related activities for anyone who does not celebrate christmas). happy holidays <3

Decorating 

You’re inside the warm, cozy living room with your daughter, who’s carefully hanging ornaments on the lower branches of the Christmas tree. You can’t help but smile at her tiny, concentrated face as she proudly shows you her latest placement, slightly crooked but utterly perfect.

“Where’s Daddy?” she suddenly asks, glancing around as if Gojo might jump out from behind the tree.

You pause, realizing you haven’t heard his usual playful remarks in a while. “Good question, sweetie.”

Stepping outside, you’re greeted by a sight that’s equal parts alarming and hilarious. There he is—your husband—half hanging off the roof, a string of Christmas lights tangled around his torso as if he spun around in them. He’s muttering to himself, trying to clip the lights in place while haphazardly balancing on the edge.

“Satoru!” you yell, rushing forward. “What the hell is wrong with you?”

He turns at the sound of your voice, flashing that signature smug grin, as if dangling from a rooftop is the most normal thing ever. “I’m making our house the brightest on the block! What do you think?”

“I think you’re going to break your neck!” you shout back, torn between exasperation and laughter.

Your daughter runs outside to see what’s going on and gasps. “Daddy, are you flying like Santa?”

Gojo puffs out his chest, clearly inspired by her awe. “Exactly, sweetheart! Daddy’s doing Santa prep work. But don’t tell anyone—it’s top secret.”

Just as he says this, the clip he was trying to secure snaps free, sending him sliding down the roof. You shriek, but he somehow lands on his feet in the snow with all the grace of a cat, arms flung out dramatically.

“I meant to do that!” he declares proudly, though his hair is covered with snow and his shirt is half untucked.

Your daughter shrieks with laughter, while you sigh, rubbing your temples. “Satoru, next time just use a ladder, or maybe for some help.”

“Where’s the fun in that?” he teases, winking at you.

We have Santa at Home

The mall was bustling with holiday cheer, kids lined up around every corner to meet Santa Claus. You thought it’d be a great idea to bring your daughter for a quick picture and get some last minute shopping done, but, of course, your husband had other plans.

“Why waste time in a boring line for some fake Santa when you’ve got the real deal right here?” Gojo says with a smug grin, pointing at himself.

You raise an eyebrow. “The real deal? Last I checked, Santa doesn’t have snow-white hair and no beard, honey.”

“Details, details,” he waves you off. “Just wait. She’s going to love this.”

Later that evening, you’re finishing up some wrapping when you hear a loud “Ho ho ho!” coming from the living room. You walk in to see Gojo fully decked out in a Santa suit—complete with a pillow stuffed under the jacket to make him completely look the part. Your daughter’s eyes grow wide as she gasps.

“Santa?!” she squeals, running over to him.

Gojo crouches down, his voice deeper and exaggerated, “Well, hello there, little one! What’s your name?”

“Hana”, she replies with a giggle, inching closer to her dressed up father.

“What a pretty name for an adorable little one like you! Have you been a good girl this year?”

She nods so enthusiastically it’s a miracle her head doesn’t fly off. “The best girl!”

The evening turns into an impromptu Christmas celebration. Gojo stays in character as he hands her a small “early gift” and lets her climb onto his lap for pictures. But as the hours tick on, the novelty starts to wear off—for him, at least.

“Okay, kiddo,” he says, tugging at the itchy beard. “Santa’s got to go back to the North Pole now.”

“Nooo!” she wails, grabbing his red coat. “Santa, stay,” she exclaims, jutting her lip out in a silent beg.

Gojo glances at you helplessly as your daughter’s big, watery eyes work their magic. You cross your arms, smirking. “You wanted to be the real deal, remember?”

He sighs dramatically, flopping back onto the couch. “Fine, Santa will stay a little longer. But only because I love cookies—uh, I mean, I love you.”

Your daughter giggles and climbs onto his lap again, happily chattering about what she wants for Christmas. You can’t help but laugh as Gojo leans back, already over it but trapped by his own antics.

Later, when she finally falls asleep, he collapses next to you, yanking off the Santa hat. “Next year, we’re going to the mall.”

“Sure, Santa,” you tease, planting a kiss on his cheek.

Baking

The smell of sugar and vanilla wafted through the kitchen as you and your daughter stood side by side at the counter, carefully cutting out festive shapes from the cookie dough.

“Are these enough for Santa, Mommy?” she asked, holding up a slightly misshapen star.

“More than enough, cutie. But maybe make one extra—just in case Santa gets really hungry,” you reply with a knowing smile.

She giggles, carefully placing her creation onto the baking sheet. By the time the cookies are in the oven, she’s bouncing with excitement, chattering about how Santa will love her “masterpieces.” After they’re done, she insists on arranging them perfectly on a plate, complete with a glass of milk and a tiny carrot for the reindeer.

Hours later, the house is silent, your daughter fast asleep upstairs, when you creep downstairs for a midnight check. The soft glow of the Christmas tree lights the room, and there’s Satoru, already at the plate, milk in hand and a cookie halfway to his mouth.

“What are you doing?” you whisper, arms crossed.

He freezes, looking like a child caught stealing from the cookie jar. “Santa’s on a break,” he says with a grin, waving the cookie at you.

Rolling your eyes, you join him, plucking a cookie from the plate. “If Santa eats too many, our daughter might notice.”

“She’s too busy being the cutest thing in the world to count cookies,” he says, taking a big bite. Then, with a teasing grin, he adds, “Besides, I’m doing her a favor. This one was burnt on the bottom.”

You laugh quietly and lean against him, enjoying the peaceful moment as the two of you share cookies by the light of the tree.

“Think she’ll notice the bite marks?” you ask, glancing at the carrot on the plate.

Gojo smirks. “Nah, but I’ll gnaw on it if it helps sell the story.”

“Please don’t,” you say, laughing harder, but you know he probably will.

The two of you finish your stolen snack, leaving just enough for your daughter to try for herself. 

Opening Presents

The first rays of morning sunlight peek through the curtains as you hear the sound of little feet padding down the hallway. Moments later, your daughter bursts into the room, her face lit up with excitement.

“It’s Christmas! Mommy, Daddy, wake up! Santa came!” she exclaims, practically vibrating with energy.

You groggily sit up, laughing as she grabs Satoru’s arm and tries to tug him out of bed. “C’mon, Daddy! You have to see!”

Satoru, ever the dramatic one, groans like he’s being dragged from the depths of sleep. “Santa came? Are you sure? Maybe we should check if he left any presents for me,” he teases, scooping her up in one swift motion.

You all head to the living room together, where the Christmas tree sparkles with lights, and a mountain of presents sits waiting. Your daughter gasps, clapping her hands. “He came! He really came!”

The morning is a blur of laughter, torn wrapping paper, and wide-eyed amazement as she opens each gift. Every reaction is pure joy—her squeal of delight when she unwraps the toy she’s been dreaming of, the way her little hands hug a stuffed animal like it’s the most precious treasure in the world.

Satoru, always one to ham it up, acts just as surprised as she does. “Wow, Santa must’ve known you’ve been such a good girl this year!” he says, ruffling her hair.

When she opens a gift that’s clearly from you and him—a cute kids makeup set—you can’t help but laugh as she insists on doing everyone’s makeup immediately. Gojo groans, claiming he looks ridiculous, but he complies when she bats her big, sparkling eyes at him.

At one point, she finds a small, poorly wrapped package with “To Daddy, Love Hana” scrawled in crayon. She beams as he opens it, revealing a handmade bracelet strung with colorful plastic beads.

“Wow, this is the best gift I’ve ever gotten,” he says, slipping it on his wrist like it’s pure gold.

As the morning winds down, you all collapse on the couch in a pile of wrapping paper and contented smiles. Your daughter is happily playing with her toys on the floor, and Satoru leans over, kissing your cheek.

“Merry Christmas,” he murmurs.

“Merry Christmas,” you reply, your heart full as you watch your little family bask in the magic of the day.

Snow day

You wake up to the world outside transformed into a winter wonderland, a thick blanket of snow covering everything. Your daughter is already at the window, pressing her tiny hands against the glass.

“Mommy! Daddy! Look! It snowed so much!” she squeals, spinning around with excitement.

Satoru peeks out from under the covers, pretending to groan. “It’s so early… Are you sure we have snow?”

Your daughter runs over and starts tugging on his arm. “Yes, Daddy! Hurry up! We have to go play!”

A little while later, you’re all bundled up in coats, scarves, and mittens, stepping into the crisp, cold air. Satoru immediately scoops up a handful of snow and throws it in the air like confetti. The first task of the day is building a snowman. Your daughter diligently rolls the snow into uneven spheres while Satoru adds his signature touch: sunglasses, a scarf tied like it belongs on a runway, and a lopsided carrot nose.

“Behold! The coolest snowman in town,” he declares, striking a dramatic pose next to it.

“Daddy, you’re so silly,” your daughter giggles, clapping her hands.

After the snowman is complete, the chaos begins. Satoru sneakily forms a snowball and tosses it at you, hitting your shoulder. “Snowball fight!” he yells, already running for cover behind the snowman.

“Oh, you’re so getting it now,” you laugh, scooping up snow as your daughter gleefully joins in.

The backyard becomes a battlefield of flying snowballs and shrieks of laughter. Your daughter targets Satoru relentlessly, who dramatically flops into the snow every time he’s hit. “Ahh, I’ve been defeated! Not the face!” he cries, pretending to surrender.

But, of course, he never stays down for long, launching surprise attacks and tackling you both into soft piles of snow.

Eventually, you’re all exhausted, your cheeks flushed and your hands freezing. Satoru picks up your daughter and spins her around before carrying her inside, declaring, “Victory is mine!”

Back in the warmth of the house, you all gather around the kitchen table with steaming mugs of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. Your daughter leans her head against you, still beaming.

“That was the best snow day ever,” she says sleepily.

Satoru grins, ruffling her hair. “Of course it was. Your dad makes everything epic.”

You roll your eyes but can’t help smiling, knowing this day will be one of those precious memories you’ll all treasure.

© kingkaizen | do not copy, steal, or duplicate!

[fastbrother]

Detention (E, 1k words)

Harry spends his eighth year recontextualising his relationship with Draco Malfoy.

Tags: Only One Broom, Hogwarts Eighth Year, Fluff and Smut, Praise Kink, Top!Harry Potter

Author's note: Drarry one-shot I wrote for @kk1smet's birthday. Thank you for creating such wonderful art for this fandom, and for letting me use it here! K's original art post can be found here, and you can see more of her art at the bottom of this post!

* * *

They’ve been fighting since—well, since forever. But also since noon. The sky is dark now, and Harry has run out of patience. He turns on his heel, leaving Malfoy to scream into the void.

“Just where do you think you’re going?” 

“I’m going back to the castle. We’ll come back tomorrow.”

“Out of the question. I’m not spending another day—”

Harry can’t think of many things crueller than the detention McGonagall came up with for them. Another day stuck in the forest with Malfoy and he might just crack. But he’s already cracked, hasn’t he? He’s cracked about a thousand times today. 

“Suit yourself. If you can find unicorn hair in the dark, then by all means, go and find it. I’m going back.” 

And with that, Harry mounts his broom.

“Don’t you dare leave me here alone.”

“Then hop on.”

There’s a break, a little silence.  

“Fine. We’ll go back. But I’m flying.”

“Whatever,” Harry says, too tired for another fight. He dismounts, and offers the broom to Malfoy. 

The sound of crushed leaves fills the air as Malfoy comes closer, then grabs the broom in one swift motion. 

They get on.

Why did Harry think it was a good idea to only bring one broom? He’s uncomfortable, seated much too low, and has nowhere to put his hands. He hates not being in control of it, too. Malfoy flies with too much grace, a sin he didn’t know existed until that very moment. 

Time passes slowly.

Harry’s just got used to the precarious balance when a Thestral whizzes by.

“Ah,” Harry says, against his will, and wraps his hands around Malfoy’s waist. At the same time—or was it earlier?!—Malfoy’s hand lands on Harry’s calf, making Harry swallow the sorry he was about to blurt out. 

Surely, Malfoy will say sorry himself. Or remove his hand. 

He doesn’t. 

So Harry doesn’t remove his hands either. 

They land, and Malfoy’s hand lingers for a second too long.

They’re silent on the way to the castle. It’s bizarre, because the two of them are never silent. They bicker in class, when they’re forced to sit together for “the optics.” They bicker in the corridors, when they bump into each other. They bickered all day today. And now they’re silent, too silent, and the ghost of Malfoy’s touch buns a hole through Harry’s jeans.

Their footsteps echo against the stone walls. And then they stop. They’ve reached the staircase where their paths diverge. Harry has to go up the stairs, while Malfoy carries on.

They look at each other, neither of them moving. Then, at the same time, they act. Malfoy clears his throat. Harry walks towards a broom closet. 

Malfoy follows him in. It’s dark, much too dark to see, but he hears Malfoy dropping to his knees. He lets out a sound when he feels Malfoy’s hands parting his robes. The sounds intensify when Malfoy takes his cock out, and puts his mouth on it. It’s all so unexpected, so wonderfully wet and generous, Harry feels around until he touches Malfoy’s head. He’s really there. 

Fucking Draco Malfoy. Is on his knees. Sucking him off. 

Harry finishes in his mouth, and only afterwards realises he’s been panting. 

* * *

Harry corners Malfoy after Charms. Since last night, he’s had time to think. Truly, he’s had so much time to consider everything that’s ever happened between them, all the nuances of their relationship, all the ways in which they came together. And with all that knowledge safely stored in his brain, Harry locks the door.

Malfoy sinks to his knees. The light spills through the arched windows, and Harry can look into his eyes as he takes Harry in. 

“Jesus Christ,” Harry says, watching Malfoy’s lips strain against his cock. “I want to fuck you.”

Malfoy is a good little boy, because he releases his cock, stands up and bends over Flitwick’s desk. Harry lifts up his robe. 

“You’ve finally shut up,” Harry says, inserting one finger into Malfoy’s hole, pulling a moan out of him. “I love that.”

Harry doesn’t really know what he’s doing, but figures out enough. When he’s close, he pushes Malfoy back on his knees and comes all over his face.

Malfoy licks it off his lips. He’s finished in his pants.

* * *

Harry fucks Malfoy everywhere he can. He fucks him in deserted classrooms. In broom closets. The prefects’ bathroom. He fucks him so much and so often, they’ve both fallen behind on schoolwork. When they get detention for it, Harry fucks Malfoy on the forest bed. 

* * *

“You’re so fucking beautiful,” Harry says, looking down at Malfoy. It’s the Christmas hols, and all of Malfoy’s roommates are away. It’s the first time they fuck in a bed.

“You’re beautiful,” Malfoy says, and drags Harry into a kiss. 

* * *

“You’re insatiable,” Draco says when Harry falls into step with him after breakfast. “We have Potions in five minutes.”

“Five minutes is plenty of time.”

Draco rolls his eyes, but lets Harry drag him into a broom closet. 

They waste most of the five minutes kissing, and then another five undressing. By the time Harry comes all over Draco’s chest, the bell ringing is a distant memory. 

“If we get detention again, I’ll kill you,” Draco says while he picks up his robes from the floor. 

“Don’t worry,” Harry says, cleaning them off both. “You go first.”

Harry waits two minutes before going into the classroom. 

“Professor, sorry I’m—”

His gaze falls on Draco, sporting a red tie and looking at Harry in horror. Just like everybody else.

Harry looks down at his own green tie. 

“—late,” he concludes, amidst rising bouts of laughter.

“Shh,” Slughorn says, trying and failing at suppressing a grin. “Ah, nothing like young love, is there? But also, detention to the two lovebirds.”

Harry shrugs at the Gryffindors’ shocked faces, then sits down next to Draco. 

“Sorry,” he whispers, a hand on Draco’s knee under the table.

“I’ll never forgive you,” Draco says solemnly. 

That night, they fuck—and sleep—in Harry’s bed.

Super adorable chibi art of them fondling each other on the broom © @kk1smet! 💖

[solomonomenon]

skz ideal type

⚠️ for entertainment purposes only *based on tarot

𝙗𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣

personality:

someone who’s really in touch with their emotions, kind of dreamy and open-hearted, but also super intuitive and deep. they’d be someone who just gets him without needing to explain everything. there’s also playful, optimistic vibe about them, always seeing the beauty in things and bringing a creative energy to life. so, overall, it’s like someone who’s both a big dreamer and quietly wise, with a warm, emotional depth that feels really comforting.

appearance:

someone with sharp, confident look, with striking features—maybe bold eyes, a clean hairstyle, or a strong jawline. they’d look put-together but not in a flashy way, more like they just naturally stand out. they’d have a more relaxed, effortless style, like casual clothes that still look really good, maybe in earthy or neutral colors with a touch of unpredictability like they might take risks with their look, maybe with a cool tattoo, unique accessories, or some bold fashion choices.

𝙡𝙚𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬

personality:

he'd want someone who’s open to change and isn’t afraid to go with the flow. they’d also need to be tough in their own way, able to handle challenges and stand their ground when things get rough. there’s probably a vulnerability to them too, like they’re learning to become stronger and more independent over time, but they’re still kind and gentle at their core.

appearance:

someone with intense, magnetic vibe, something about them just draws people in, like they’ve got an edgy, mysterious energy. maybe they’ve got a sultry, confident look with bold features, like sharp eyes. at the same time, they’d have this fiery, energetic look that gives off vibrant, passionate energy. there’s also a youthful, fresh quality to them, like they’re still figuring things out and have a bit of an innocent, curious side. maybe a clean, neat style like button-up shirts, neat hair, with simple accessories.

𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙗𝙞𝙣

personality:

his ideal type is someone who's confident and resourceful, someone who knows what they want and has the skills to make it happen, yet they wouldn't be quick to rush into things, instead weighing options thoughtfully. they’d definitely have a strong sense of justice and be the kind of person who stands up for what’s right and helps others out whenever they can

appearance:

they would probably have a bit of a humble, grounded look. they wouldn’t be super flashy, maybe more practical and laid-back in their style, but also not afraid to be a little different. he'd prefer someone with positive energy that just shines through, someone who has warm and inviting vibe, like their smile can light up an entire room.

𝙝𝙮𝙪𝙣𝙟𝙞𝙣

personality:

someone who’s super social and loves to connect with others, always up for a good time and making fun memories with friends. they’d also be really emotionally open and warm, not afraid to show affection or share how they feel. at the same time, they’d have a strong sense of right and wrong, someone who values fairness, knows when to stand their ground, and makes decisions based on what’s fair and just.

appearance:

mysterious, reserved look maybe they have like quiet intensity, their eyes or expression hold a lot of depth, making you want to know more. they’d also have this balanced, confident vibe, like they’re someone who carries themselves with a sense of self-assurance and dignity, like how someone might walk into a room and immediately command attention without even trying. think of someone with a sharp, elegant style, like a tailored suit or simple but sophisticated clothing that gives off a calm, powerful energy. and they’d have ethereal, almost otherworldly beauty like they look naturally stunning without much effort, maybe with soft, glowing skin and a graceful presence, almost like someone who could easily fit into a fairytale.

𝙝𝙖𝙣

personality:

someone who’s pretty well-rounded and at peace with themselves, someone who knows who they are and is confident in that. they’d also be super generous and caring, always looking to help others out and keep things balanced in their relationships. they’d have nurturing side, like they naturally want to take care of people and make sure everyone around them is okay.

appearance:

calm, introspective vibe like someone who doesn’t need to stand out but still has this quiet confidence about them. maybe they have a more relaxed, effortless style, something like simple but clean clothes, like a cozy sweater or a neat button-up, and a natural look that doesn’t try too hard. and he'd prefer someone who pays attention to the little details, maybe with a well-kept, put-together appearance that reflects how dedicated they are in everything they do. they’d also have this wise, comforting aura, like they’re someone you’d turn to for advice or just feel safe being around.

𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙭

personality:

someone who’s super confident and full of energy, they could light up the room with their passion and creativity, always ready to take charge. but they’d also have this quiet strength about them, like they’re really calm and patient even in tough situations, and they can handle anything that comes their way with grace. they’d also have a fierce, protective side, someone who always has your back, especially when it comes to the people they care about.

appearance:

they would probably have tough, resilient look, someone who’s been through challenges but still stands strong. they might have a more serious or guarded expression, like there’s a lot beneath the surface, but they still carry themselves with this quiet confidence. they’d have a bit of a mysterious edge, they don’t reveal everything about themselves right away, and their style would probably be a little unconventional, maybe wearing something that gives off that I know what I’m doing vibe, a cool jacket or unique accessories that make them stand out without trying too hard.

𝙨𝙚𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙢𝙞𝙣

personality:

someone who’s not afraid of shaking things up or starting fresh when needed. they’d also be super dreamy and imaginative, always thinking about the future and exploring different possibilities. they might not always know exactly what they want, but they’re excited by all the options ahead of them. they’d also have nurturing, caring side, someone who’s always there to look out for others and offer love and support.

appearance:

strong and confident. they’d also have a look that’s full of hope and adventure, maybe with a spark in their eyes like they’re excited about the future and whatever comes next. think of someone who dresses with purpose, maybe in sleek, bold clothes. they’d have humble and hardworking look, like they put effort into everything they do, even if no one notices. they could wear something simple yet practical, like comfy sneakers or a jacket.

𝙟𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣

personality:

confident and knows how to stand up for themselves, not afraid to fight for what they believe in. they’d also be grounded in their values and have a strong sense of purpose, someone who knows where they’re going in life and doesn’t get easily swayed by others. they’d also have this curious, analytical side, always asking questions, analyze things deeply, and always be a few steps ahead.

appearance:

someone with active and energetic look who always seems on the move, with a spark in their eyes like they’re ready for anything. they’d have a practical, clean style like wearing something simple but stylish, maybe a well-fitted jacket and sneakers. and they’d be in good shape, showing off a strong, fit build. think of someone who dresses comfortably but still looks sharp, like they could easily transition from a workout to a night out.

─── ⋆⋅ ☾⋅⋆ ────── ⋆⋅ ☾⋅⋆ ───

[nyoomerr]

How about half demon SY fic? Maybe with some Cinderella-esque elements?

I can easily imagine Airplane making another half demon (of the non-heavenly variety) as a character foil for Binghe.

The original version was regularly mistreated by his full demon relations, saw them sucking up to the also half-demon emperor (maybe even trying to marry off a bratty full demon half-sister), and in his rage set up some dramatic ‘revenge’ plot that ended in his death.

Of course, with Shen Yuan in the role (and not wanting to die like the OG-version), he somehow bungles the whole thing into a seduction instead.

i'm not sure about cinderella-esque, but here's some half demon sy taking pity on things he really shouldn't be taking pity on, lmao

---

Luo Binghe was not the only half demon in Proud Immortal Demon Way, of course. Between cultivators that wanted to get a little freaky with it (weird) and demon lords who took human women as war prizes (downright terrible), there were plenty of occasions for mixed breeds to be born. 

Luo Binghe was, however, the only successful half demon.

His spiritual pathways developed perfectly suited to balance demonic and spiritual qi without getting the two energies tangled, and none of his demonic traits interfere with his human ones as so many other half demons experience. His demonic teeth sit without discomfort in his human mouth, he has no extra demonic appendages that struggle to reconcile with a human circulatory system, and his claws don’t even bleed when he retracts and extends them in a way that would cause any other half demon to be crippled with pain.

Perhaps it’s a result of his miracle healing blood parasites working overtime to keep his body from sabotaging itself; perhaps it’s simply the protagonist halo at work.

Either way, the less fortunate half demons of Proud Immortal Demon Way had every reason to despise Luo Binghe. Most of them did, or at the very least started off that way - several partly demonic women had of course been won out in the end by charming smiles and the discovery of just what other benefits Luo Binghe received from his successful mixing (read: his monster dick).

Shen Yuan had not transmigrated into a woman, though, and the character he had landed inside of had been one of the less fortunate half demons Luo Binghe ever stumbled across. 

Shen Yuan’s body had tried to grow both human and demonic ears alike, one on top of the other, warping each other and resulting in permanently impaired hearing. His pupils were stuck in the large, open shape of the sorts of demons that live almost entirely in the dark, but his human retina was not similarly adjusted, and Shen Yuan suffered near constant migraines whenever he went out in the sun. His teeth were made of rows of sharp needles, but his diet had not adjusted to allow him to eat as much - or as raw of - meat as his demonic ancestry had prepared him for, to say nothing of the way the sharp points of his teeth always left his mouth bleeding.

It was miserable. 

Even the good parts - the interesting parts, the things like the way his hair looked iridescent in the light or the general increase in energy and durability that Shen Yuan got to experience - did not seem to make up for the downsides of his mixed blood. 

And that was all before taking into the account the way that Shen Yuan was nearly entirely shunned by both demonic and human cultures alike, too.

Ah, it was unfair!! What kind of transmigration experience treated its host so poorly?! What kind of shitty wish fulfillment left the victim so deeply unfortunate?! Shen Yuan wanted a refund, damn it!!

If there was one saving grace to the situation, it was that Shen Yuan was not beholden to the plot in any way. The original host Shen Yuan had taken over had, in the later chapters of PIDW, been one of the prominent figures at the head of an attempted coup. His resentment towards his own life had burned and burned until he’d redirected it at Luo Binghe, a symbol of unfair success that he would never see, and he’d gotten himself barely half a paragraph in PIDW to describe his vengeful death for his troubles.

Shen Yuan refused to be such a small footnote in Luo Binghe’s life. If he was going to suffer by living in this world, then he’d wring every bit of joy he could from the world that causes that suffering. 

Naturally, the only good thing that this world offers is Luo Binghe himself.

“My Lord,” Shen Yuan demures, his tone hushed as he bends to refill Luo Binghe’s goblet. 

He had not been able to win a direct audience with Luo Binghe; outside of Luo Binghe himself, no half-breed is considered of good enough standing to be allowed the emperor’s time in such a way. Instead, Shen Yuan had taken a job as a servant in the Underground Palace, carefully biding his time and working his way towards this very moment, where he’d get to lean in close to refill Luo Binghe’s drink during a meal.

Luo Binghe cuts a sharp glance at him, then at the drink Shen Yuan has poured him, but says nothing.

“My Lord,” Shen Yuan says again, wetting his lips nervously. “The cursed mirror you seek is in the Fire Grass Marshes.”

Luo Binghe hums, his expression unreadable. “And how does a little servant know of such a thing?”

Shen Yuan swallows thickly. ‘I read it in a story about you in another world,’ isn’t exactly the sort of answer that would cut it, here. He can’t just brush it away as rumor, though, either; Shen Yuan needs to prove that he is uniquely useful to Luo Binghe. A usefulness that will both excuse his impudence in approaching Luo Binghe this way, and will allow Shen Yuan to remain close to Luo Binghe in the future.

Shen Yuan will not lose this gamble.

“This lowly one is a half demon like my Lord is,” Shen Yuan says, voice hushed. “My Lord is blessed; the rest of us are -”

Shen Yuan’s words catch in his throat. He’s only been in this body for a little under a decade, but it’s still - the hardships he’s had to endure, and the discrimination, and - Shen Yuan swallows again, trying to steady himself.

“In general, half breeds are not accepted in either culture,” Shen Yuan finally says, voice still low and deferential. “We have had to find livings in places that are not generally hospitable.”

“And you’ve lived in the Fire Grass Marshes as a result, then?” Luo Binghe asks.

Shen Yuan nods. The rest of the dining room has fallen silent by now, watching closely as Luo Binghe considers the daring little servant that has approached him as such. It makes Shen Yuan sweat, just a bit, but then again…

Their attention is not nearly as heavy as the single-minded focus of Luo Binghe himself. 

“The Fire Grass Marshes may not be worth the trouble to retrieve such a small item,” Luo Binghe says after a long silence, turning his gaze away from Shen Yuan at last. “There are other artifacts this Lord can use instead.”

Shen Yuan… maybe panics just a bit. He didn’t make this much of an effort to have Luo Binghe’s attention only to be dismissed outright like this, as if it isn’t worth the bother, ah!!

“Of course, my Lord wouldn’t have to fetch it himself!” Shen Yuan rushes to say. “That is, this lowly one can - if it pleases my Lord, I mean - for you -”

“If you’d offer to fetch it yourself, why didn’t you simply bring it with you now?” Luo Binghe asks blandly. Then, a bit more dangerously, he adds: “Don’t waste this Lord’s time, little servant.”

“If the mirror isn’t good enough, this servant can fetch something else,” Shen Yuan tries. “This lowly one knows much about lands that aren’t usually fit for exploration, so -”

“Why?” Luo Binghe interrupts, turning back to once more fix Shen Yuan with his full attention. “The only reward you will receive is your life, should I decide to spare you for the insolence.”

Shen Yuan swallows thickly, once, twice. He needs to fix this, or else his life - if he manages to keep it - will only end up more miserable than it was before. 

He refuses to go back to that, not now that he’s managed to be so close to Luo Binghe.

“This lowly one only wishes to help spare my Lord of unnecessary suffering -”

Luo Binghe stands suddenly, his chair tipping behind him and the dishes on the table falling and spilling at the sudden jostling movement.

Shen Yuan doesn’t much notice, what with the way Luo Binghe has wrapped a single large hand around his throat and begun to squeeze.

“Do not dare to speak of my suffering,” Luo Binghe snarls, his teeth inches from Shen Yuan’s face. “Do not dare to presume to know what I can and can not tolerate.”

Shen Yuan gasps, scrambling with his stupid, defective claws at the hand around his neck.

“I’m sorry,” he manages to choke out, “I’m sorry, but - but regardless of what you can tolerate, you shouldn’t have to suffer at all, it’s -”

Luo Binghe’s grip tightens, and Shen Yuan falls silent, focusing on trying to breathe. 

He does not break eye contact with Luo Binghe, though.

Because this is the truth of it: Shen Yuan’s mixed breed body sucks ass, and he’s suffered for it, and he’s been humiliated for it, and even the cool, kickass parts of transmigration have been kinda lame for it. He kind of hates it. He more than kind of understands the resentment that the original goods had harbored.

But Shen Yuan has the insight of a PIDW reader, and he knows that despite his perfect biology, Luo Binghe has suffered far more than most half breeds have. 

Shen Yuan and his kin are shunned, but they are not outright beaten or discarded or starved or pushed into the Abyss. They may be given shitty jobs, but they are given jobs; they’ve never had anyone try to sabotage their cultivations or been forced to overturn the demonic hierarchy just to find a safe place to sleep. Most people dislike them, but those that do care for Shen Yuan and other half breeds like him can be trusted; their regard is honest, as it can not be motivated by any sort of desire for power or influence.

Shen Yuan has suffered, but he has also experienced luxuries that Luo Binghe has not. 

He’s suffered, and he’s hated this stupid fucking transmigration, but - 

But in the end, he could have found ways to enjoy it that didn’t involve walking up to the protagonist and offering to help. He could have used his meta knowledge to get rich and powerful enough to explore the world on a cool vacation, instead of trying to use it to bargain for a spot at Luo Binghe’s side.

“Binghe should have someone looking out for him,” Shen Yuan wheezes. Maybe wheezes. Maybe he doesn’t say it at all. His vision is spotty and his brain is a bit foggy and he certainly wouldn’t have dared to say such a thing if he was fully conscious. 

Luo Binghe’s grip slackens all at once, and Shen Yuan crumples to the ground, coughing. 

“You’ll get only one chance,” Luo Binghe warns him. It’s very clearly a threat.

When Shen Yuan manages to look up at him, though, his expression is not as cold and dangerous as it had been a minute ago.

It looks hungry.

[thornswoggled]

i think there is a convo to be had about how chises dragon curse - for all of its confusing mechanics - functions less as a plot point and more of a physical manifestation of the character growth chise has yet to undertake, and an unwillingness to reckon with the person she is past the roles she serves in the lives of others

chise takes this curse on when she returns to the auction house, and location is everything here. at its core, this curse is anger, hatred, fear, pain, and a deep desire to return to comfort - destructive emotions that rip apart all it touches. when chise breaks down at the sight of the frightened dragon for sale, elias tells her that those are not her emotions, that she shouldnt let them overtake her - but they are her emotions, that dragon is her, and there was never a possibility that she wouldnt follow it on its flight over london. seeing as things have "worked out" for her til now, chise hasnt yet reckoned with the gravity of what it meant to sell her life away. she hasnt reckoned with the hatred and anger and pain that she still harbors - unfortunately, moving to a quaint little english cottage does not undo a lifetime of neglect. her attempts to fix those around her, philomela being a prime example, will only get her so far. eventually she will have to look within, and i dont think shes done more than dip her toes in. "this is my past, these sad things happened to me, now things are better" is not the end of her self-reflection. now that we know the past she carries with her, what does all of that mean for her? what kind of person is she? who will she become?

im thinking too about this recurring theme of "atavism." its a key feature in tambs dragons, who are able to evolve at will to suit their needs, and yori also mentions it when noting chises appearance. atavism is the reoccurrence of dormant or ancestral traits, and you could make the argument that its also functioning metaphorically here. evolving to suit the world around you, past burdens and trauma reemerging when its unexpected or inconvenient... my thoughts on this are loose right now

theres this concept that we've been getting, too, that chises dragon curse is something temporary. arc 1 left us with the idea that her two curses must remain in balance, in perpetuity, for her to survive. but theres this new interpretation of it being something that serves her for now, but she might shed it once it fulfills its purpose

continuing with the idea of the dragon curse as a sort of... idk, ptsd metaphor, what are these two examples from ch 98 implying? that her negative emotions will serve her when it comes time? that this sort of baggage cant be exorcised away? framing the dragon curse as temporary broaches the possibility of chise one day being cured of it, but what does that mean? and should she be?

(of course, the 'future chise' we see in ch 1 doesnt have a visible left hand, but is that meant to be a literal glimpse into the future, anyway? theres also a dragon made of vines behind her in that panel, didya notice it?)

i mentioned the auction house at the beginning because i feel that if chise sheds the dragon curse, it will be in much the same way she attained it. chise has been told that she is free, she is loved, she has told her "mother" that shes moving on with her life. but all of this is just the beginning - and lets be real, i dont think elias is putting her into therapy. joseph is the only character i can think of who is truly, earnestly pushing chise toward the difficult self-reflection she needs. im excited to see what he says when she taps into her "cursed fury"

this is why im so excited that we are being told explicitly, time and again, that things are about to go really bad for chise. tamb is such a masterwork of character writing, it is so incredibly emotionally intelligent and gives so much grace and patience to its characters. i have no doubt that chises character arc is going to go in such a spectacular direction

[rubykgrant]

I made some up-dates to a few of Junonia's outfits, and also finally got a more detailed picture of her face finished, so here she is with Poppy again! I had a general idea of what her vibe was, but after thinking about her a little more, I wanted to show more aspects of her personality in the outfits. Some casual looks, a few a little fancy. Poppy's style leans a little boho, with a splash of sporty here and there (here armor is mostly white with tan accents, so she has lots of different rosy-brown tones in her outfits). Junonia has a more casual-elegant style, not formal exactly, but lots of feminine/chic clothing, and few different comfy looks (her armor is dark purple with pink accents, so those colors show up in her clothes).

More info for them below~

Junonia is tall and chubby, but not very curvy. She has sharp and elegant features for her jawline and cheekbones (very pretty and striking). She uses a mobility aid, a cane and some knee braces that help ease stress. She has a cane with her armor as well, but it's more high-tech, and doubles as a weapon, while the suit itself helps compensate stress on her knees (the idea of having a character who needs mobility aids, specifically canes, actually came from seeing a different character from another series; the character used them in a civilian form, but when fighting bad guys, they just magically could walk fine... I thought, hey; sci-fi magic is involved, why not just give them a SUPER COOL cane, that can adapt to their needs in battle and what-not! so, I transferred this thought process to Junonia. the high-tech one can automatically fold-up into a gauntlet when she's sitting, and has several other adjustments, making it like multi-tool). Her armor would be dark-purple with pink accents.

She has two prominent tattoos; around her neck/collarbone is a design of a gold chain, pearls, and a seashell. On her arm is a design of a seahorse, with the tail wrapped around her wrist (the way they sometimes hold on to rocks with their tails~). She has most of her hair pulled back, in box braids (they are short on one side, getting longer as it goes to the other side, in an asymmetrical line).

Part of her story involved getting tricked into working for an organization that claimed to help people without being "restricted" by government rules... which is a cool idea in theory, but unfortunately, the people in charge of this group were insidious a-holes. Junonia was in charge of gathering intel, a medic for her team, and occasionally helping with defensive fighting (not that she isn't perfectly capable in any forms of battle, but she's a bit like Doc, not entirely a pacifist, but reserves violence as a last resort, or to defend herself/others).

When the organization began to fall apart, including the people running the show trying to take out the underlings to erase evidence, Junonia got out of there quick and hid under the radar for a while... more recently, she's been involved with helping people find resources for recovery, and she's also gotten back into her habit of collecting information (like what happened to other people in her group, and where the ones responsible for the problems are hiding).

Junonia is generally a calm and graceful person, but she's also VERY clever, and can have an icy form of anger when dealing with somebody unpleasant. She's a very determined problem-solver, thinking about WHY people do what they do, and understands how to win either by making peace, using force, or simply not engaging in a pointless struggle. She takes set-backs or sudden changes in stride, adapting quick and easily. She's very compassionate, but doesn't compromise in specific situations. Junonia doesn't trust most authority groups, but she still believes in trusting PEOPLE; even after all the difficult things she's faced, Junonia isn't a pessimist, instead having hope that doing good will really make a difference (creating harmony and balance, in big and small ways).

Within the group, she's something like a "reverse" of Carolina, without being an adversary/antagonist. She has the same level of tenacity as well, but more tempered (if Carolina is a bit hot-headed, Junonia is more cool). It's a bit ironic, because she knows about all the others, and at first some of them wonder if this will somehow be "uneven", but Junonia is open to sharing facts about herself, and it's very easy to enjoy/accept her companionship.

She grew up being fascinated by sea creatures, but never got to visit the ocean until she was an adult. When she was hiding, she finally was able to find places to live by the water (mostly around the west coast and Alaska), and worked on putting all her knowledge of marine life into practice. Junonia has a lot of crafting hobbies, but also knows how to create intricate designs with different forms of weaving/knitting/crochet. Junonia also enjoys making loose watercolor illustrations (and has entertained the idea of maybe working on children's books one day). She really likes horror and action/adventure movies. She's in her late 30s, and is a trans lesbian. Her background is Mediterranean (Maltese and Greek), African (Ethiopian), and Native American (Navajo).

Poppy is short, with a fairly thick and solid build, and square features that are still soft. Poppy didn't actually "join" the army. She was "selected" to be part of a "special training program", which turned out to be tricking poor and homeless people into working at dangerous outposts. When one area was getting attacked, a lot of the people running the show took escape ships for themselves. Poppy was able to find a set of armor, and now looking "official", she helped guide all the people who would have been abandoned to safety. When she got them all to a rescue ship, a soldier asked if she had been in charge of that outpost. She basically pretended that, yes- she TOTALLY was the boss. Yep. Hired herself, and gave herself a promotion. Before she could back out or escape, she was thrown into a new "assignment". Whoops!

She was then sent to a different group of Red and Blue Flag Zealots, meant to identify needed supplies and order more ammunition. She was designated "neutral", and had white armor with tan accents. When the teams ran out of bullets, they kept fighting in non-lethal ways, which Poppy thought was preferable to a clearly pointless war, so she just never put in the order for more. Both teams considered her a friend, playfully fighting over who's side she was on. After a dangerous incident left her knocked-out and recovering, Temple's group arrived to recruit more Sim Troopers. Poppy's group refused to join. When she woke up, they were all gone, and she had to work on making cybernetics for herself. Because she's still considered part of the Flag Zealots, the UNSC decided to throw her back into a new training program (which was actually pretty shady in terms of motives), and that's where she meets Sarge.

Poppy is meant to sort of mirror Simmons. The fact that Sarge likes her, and she's a nerd, SHOULD make Simmons hate her guts... but after one conversation, he internally just clicked with her- "Oh, sibling? Sibling!". Also, she and Simmons are trans in opposite directions (Poppy never cared much about having surgery, but she always wanted really long hair). Oh- and with white armor, the prophecy of Red Team being the lesbian flag has been fulfilled!

Poppy’s got a bit of a “cheerfully dismissive” attitude when she’s not in a mood to deal with somebody. She also likes making people laugh, and when she’s really close to them, she tries to be a source of comfort (she's very good at somehow saying just the right little compliment, something short and sweet that makes somebody's day~). She’s got a temper brewing under there, though (she can shout and rant with the best of them, but you really need to worry if she’s coming after you quietly).

For the most part, Poppy is easy-going (because she’s been through a LOT, and knows what she’s capable of), and pretty quick with sarcastic little comments. She also feels her painful emotions VERY deeply, and freely cries when upset... but that doesn't stop her from beating-down on a bad-guy (and it is honestly unnerving to get your but-kicked from somebody who is clearly sobbing; you hurt her feelings, now she's hurting your face). One of her skills is messing with audio communication, and her favorite trick is to play annoying songs as a distraction. She also loves music, and usually "thinks in song", either using audio tech to play actual songs, or using her imagination to play it in her head (not only to set the mood, but it helps her focus, and keep a "rhythm" with her physical actions). Her favorite movie is the Last Unicorn. Poppy's background is Irish and Spanish.

[thesolaireslawyer]

Shaw Pack Flowers pt2

flowers I'd give to every member of the Shaw Pack and why part 2

Christian - Red Lilacs with a mix of matching peonies! the color red means in this case anger and passion. Christian has a lot of pent-up anger as he feels he was cheated out of becoming beta. he tends to get annoyed whenever everyone calls out his obvious relationship with Amanda. however, he is passionate about his pack. even if he can be a bit of an ass- now to the flowers! Peonies mean Compassion and Bashfulness. why? he cares about the people around him a lot! and he can get very flustered when confronted about his relationship and or gifts. Lilacs mean confidence and innocence though we're only gonna take confidence in this case. After all everyone could use a little more of that

Marie - (she can have my hand in marriage honestly) I am giving her some Roses of course!(I love her some much- I'm biased) Pink roses and some blue Chamomiles. Pink roses mean Gratitude, grace, and joy though were only taking 1 of those meanings. Grace because let's be real here she had to be really patient and fast with Colm's behavior. while The color blue means calm, trust, and intelligence though we only takin 2 of those Calm and intelligent. She had to be smart in dealing with Colm's gambling habit while also being calm enough to raise their son. Chamomiles mean patience and wealth. do I really need to explain that?

Arden - the resident troublemaker! I'm giving her some Orange Hyacinths! The color orange in this case means Creativity, youth, and enthusiasm. arden is one of the younger wolf-shifters in the pack! with her creative ways of picking on Chrissy! She just wants to have some fun you know? that being said Hyacinths mean Playfulness ad constancy. yes shes is playful and sometimes disrespectful- she's constant with it at least (IM JOKING IM JOKING! She is an amazing team player. )

Amanda - honestly I don't know much about Amanda however- from what I've heard about her I think I'm going to give her some Peach roses. Why? well, peach roses mean Sincerity, gratitude, and sympathy. her relationship with Christan shows how much she loves and cares for him. while after the inversion she wanted him to come with her back to her parents. She wanted to show her gratitude by living a safe life with Christan. the sincerity of not having to be hidden anymore. but earning her sympathy when declined. She understood.. (pink roses would also suit her)

Gabe - I could just make a meme here and give him some black roses and say it means death (which is one of their many meanings) but I'm not going to do that.. I would give him forget-me-nots and delphiniums. whenever David talks about his dad it's always mentioned just how of a big heart he had. and how playful he could be at times. and guess what just happens to mean Big-hearted? Delphiniums! Gabe has so many good memories that the pack still talks about to this day. and true love.. something Gabe had and then lost. But now they get to see the man their son has grown to be together.

Colm - Black and White roses.. in the case of Colm, he let his work ruin him. and well.. he found an outlet. it wasn't a healthy one. and all he can hope now is to fix what he broke. even if it's too late. Black roses can mean a lot however in colms case they're going to mean Rebirth and new beginnings. White roses mean redemption and grace. I shouldn't have to explain this reasoning.

BONUS

David's Mom - Her favorite flowers were honeysuckle and they're the perfect flowers to give her. they can mean Love, devotion happiness, and new beginnings! there is doubt in my mind that this woman was a joy to be around, someone who balanced out Gabe. And someone who wanted everything for her son. She was an amazing woman. and her choice of such makes me think that even more.

and here's the part 2 I was talking about! @dawnofiight

let me know if there is any other characters you want me to do

[babymarvelbunny]

The Reluctant Hero

Pairing: Peter Parker x Reader

Summary: Y/N had always known she was different. Her powers, though strong, had brought her isolation more than anything else. She preferred to work in the shadows, using her abilities to help people discreetly. She had no intention of becoming a part of the Avengers or any high-profile superhero team. Though Peter had other plans.

Warnings: Smut kind of. Minors DNI. Profanity. Mentions of PTSD and Trauma.

Word Count: 9.5K

A/N: Listen, I am a Bucky girl, but that doesn't mean I don't have my Peter days, and today is one of them, I just finished rewatching NWH and I figured why not write a little spidey fic. Enjoy. Also, this was before the world knew Peter Parker was Spiderman. (Not proofread at all, sorry.)

Y/N had always been well aware of her unique abilities. From a young age, she had the power to manipulate and control energy. With a mere thought, she could reshape matter and even harness the energy around her to create a variety of effects. However, Y/N was also acutely aware of the potential dangers of her powers, having witnessed the unintended consequences they could bring.

While her powers had the potential to change the world, Y/N preferred to operate in the shadows. She had seen how the public spotlight had turned some heroes into celebrities, their lives, and relationships under constant scrutiny. Y/N valued her anonymity and chose to operate under the radar, helping people discreetly and minimizing her impact on the world. So she decided to mask her identity by, well, wearing a mask. She made an entire suit using pink and black material and she had to admit it looked pretty nice.

One evening, Y/N's covert activities led her to a dimly lit alley where a gang had gathered. She could tell they were up to no good, their intentions nefarious and dangerous. Y/N observed from the shadows, her instincts telling her that intervention was necessary.

Before she could make a move, the sound of thwips echoed through the alley. Spider-Man had arrived, his red and blue suit contrasting against the dark backdrop. He moved with grace and precision, quickly disarming a couple of gang members and using his web-shooters to immobilize others.

Y/N watched as the fight unfolded, Spider-Man's agility and quick thinking on full display. He moved seamlessly, dodging attacks and countering with impressive skill. Despite her initial skepticism, Y/N couldn't help but be impressed by his abilities. The way he handled himself was a testament to his dedication and determination to protect the city.

As the fight raged on, one of the gang members managed to land a powerful blow to Spider-Man's side, sending him crashing against a nearby wall. His mask hid the wince of pain, but Y/N could sense his struggle to get back on his feet. The gang member lunged again, aiming for a decisive strike.

Without hesitation, Y/N stepped out of the shadows and intervened. She directed a surge of energy at the attacker, knocking him off balance and allowing Spider-Man to recover. As he regained his footing, Y/N's eyes met his briefly – a silent acknowledgment of their unspoken teamwork.

The fight continued, but now Y/N was an active participant. She used her energy manipulation to create barriers, deflect attacks, and incapacitate the gang members. Spider-Man moved alongside her, utilizing his web-shooters and acrobatics to take down the remaining members.

As the last of the gang members retreated, Y/N and Spider-Man stood side by side, catching their breath. The alley was littered with debris, a testament to the intense battle that had taken place. Y/N turned to Peter, her expression a mix of curiosity and respect.

"Are you okay?" she asked, her voice laced with genuine concern.

Spiderman nodded, his mask hiding the hint of a grateful smile. "Thanks to you. That energy blast was a lifesaver."

Y/N shrugged off the compliment, a faint blush dusting her cheeks. "I couldn't just stand by. We make quite the team."

Standing in silence for a while Y/N decided it was best she head home, knowing she had school in the morning and that it was late enough, she already knew she'd feel exhausted come morning.

"Hey, I'm gonna get going, it was nice kicking ass with you but it's late and I have to be up in the morning." Y/N scratched the mask covering her face and realized she was pretty sweaty, gross.

"Uh yeah, absolutely, I too, have an early morning. Um, sleep well I guess." Peter didn't really know what to say as he partially wanted to know who she was under that mask but he knew if he asked she too would want to know who he was, and he just wasn't sure if he could trust her with his identity yet.

As Y/N lay in bed she couldn't help but wonder who Spiderman's real identity was. I mean New York is a big city but he didn't sound much older than she herself was. Looking at the clock beside her bed the time read 3:43am, deciding that she needed to finally stop thinking and go to sleep, she shut her eyes.

...

The next morning as Y/N got ready for school her mind was still crowded with thoughts of Spiderman's identity. He sounded young, maybe her age or a few years older. His voice sounded familiar but not too familiar, she could swear she knew that voice from somewhere, she just didn't know where.

Arriving at school Y/N rushed to her locker to grab her trigonometry book, she was late and she knew she would get detention. great. Finally entering the classroom the teacher gave her a knowing look.

"Late again Y/N, thats the third time this week, you know what that means." Miss. Taylor was the worst teacher Y/N had ever had, she was the biggest bitch in the entire faculty. Though she was a teacher it seemed like she hated kids.

"Yeah, I know, detention." Y/N rolled her eyes and grabbed the detention slip from Miss. Taylor's hand.

Heading over to her seat she locked eyes with Peter Parker who sat in front of her, though they had never really talked they both had an understanding about how much they disliked Miss. Taylor. Giving him an annoyed look he smiled at her as if to say "I understand".

Grabbing out your notebook you began to write down the lesson on the board in front of you. While focusing on the bored you noticed that Peter was busy texting someone on his phone, though it looked important Miss Taylor didn't seem to care, she threw her hands on her hips and sighed rather obnoxiously.

"Mister Parker, is that a cellphone I see in your hand? seems you want to join Miss Y/L/N in detention today, bring me your phone, you can pick it up after detention." Miss Taylor walked over to her desk and began writing out a detention slip for Peter. Peter walked up to the front of the class, handed over his phone, and grabbed the slip. Locking eyes with him you could tell that he was annoyed. Sending him a reassuring smile you liked the thought of not being alone in detention today, it'll be nice having someone else there to keep you company.

"Hey at least you're not alone, we can be detention buddies" You whispered quietly to Peter to try and cheer him up. He gave you a faint smile back and began working on something in his notebook.

_____

After school had finished you were making your way over to Miss Taylor's class for detention, dreading having to be at school longer than normal, at least this will give you time to catch up on some homework. Walking into the classroom you locked eyes with Peter and gave him a small wave.

"Okay, since you both have made it here the 30 minutes start now. Once the 30 minutes are up, Peter you can have your phone back and you both can go home." Miss Taylor glanced up at you and Peter and started a timer on her watch. This is going to be the longest 30 ever.

About 10 minutes had gone by when Miss Taylor stood up and announced that she would be leaving the room for a couple minutes, she made it clear that there was to be no talking and that both you and Peter were not allowed to get up and leave the room.

"Hey, did you get the answer to question 5? I've tried going over it several times and I keep coming up with a different answer, I'm not sure what to do." You were hoping Peter would be able to help you since he had a much better grade in the class than you did.

"Yeah, I got -9, I put it through my calculator a few times and kept coming up with the same answer so I think I'm pretty confident that its the answer, but it wouldn't surprise me if she said it's the wrong answer, I swear she hates me." Peter rolled his eyes and you let out a small laugh.

"Don't worry you're not alone, I'm pretty sure she hates me too, I don't know why she went into teaching, she doesn't seem to like kids very much." You smiled and shook your head. Peter looked over at the clock and sighed.

"You got somewhere you need to be?" you couldn't help but be curious.

"Uh yeah, nothing serious, I just need to help Ned apply to college." Peter looked over at you nervously.

"Oh yeah, I have to do that too, I have no idea where I want to go or what I want to do. It's such a hard decision you know. That's a choice that will affect us for the rest of our lives. I'm not sure I'm ready to make that decision just yet, do you know where you're applying?" You glanced up at him from your homework awaiting his answer.

"Yeah, Ned and I have applied to several schools, but were really hoping to get into MIT, it's been a dream of ours since we were kids." MIT, you'd never get into a school like that, you don't have the grades, and even if you did, you don't have the money.

"MIT would be perfect for you. You're like the smartest kid in our grade, maybe even the entire school." You smiled at Peter and he shook his head.

"I don't know about that, I'm sure that there are other kids much smarter than me," Peter knew that he was the smartest kid in their grade but he didn't want to admit that in front of Y/N and look like a total nerd.

_____

After detention, you were making your way home when you heard a fight going on in the alley beside the school, silently creeping around you noticed that it was one of the guys from the fight last night, talking to Spiderman, more like yelling at him. How do we always get ourselves into these situations, people need to stop hanging out in random alleys.

"You cost me a lot of money last night, and I'm here to ensure that you pay up." The man pulled a gun out of his pocket and attempted to shoot Spiderman but he managed to block the bullet with his webs. You weren't sure if he needed your help or if he could handle this himself. You saw what he was capable of last night. You knew he would have no problem taking this guy down.

Peter shot his web shooters at the man's arm that was holding the gun, forcing the gun to drop and hit the ground, as the gun collided with the ground it went off, shooting a bullet right into Spiderman's leg, he bent over and clutched his leg, giving the other man just enough time to run away. You decided that you wanted to help him, You couldn't just leave him there, not after last night. Before you got the chance to make yourself known Peter was shooting a web over the man's face and ripping his Spiderman mask off to get some air.

Though Y/N was facing his back that didn't stop her from seeing who he was, since she had sat behind him for months she would recognize that head anywhere, Peter Parker was Spiderman. Y/N wasn't sure what she wanted to do, did she go out there and help him, eventually outing herself and him in the process, or did she leave, acting like she saw nothing and everything would remain the same. She'd still be the normal teenager she was, and Peter would remain the nerdy kid. But she knew she couldn't just leave him, she knew she had to go out there and help him. She knew deep down that no matter what the future holds she wanted to make sure that her friend was okay. So who really cared if Peter outed her, or turns her into the Avengers. Nothing would be worse than having Peter get more injured than he already was, and it would be all her fault for not helping. So she mustered up the courage she could find and ran over to help him.

"Oh my god Peter are you okay?" She knew that at this current moment, he definitaly was not okay, he had just been shot and now one of his classmates knew who he was.

"Y/N... what are you doing here?" Peter stumbled over his words stunned that Y/N was right in front of him looking at him dressed in the Spiderman suit without his mask on, ideas ran through his head on how he could possibly get out of this situation. Maybe she didn't see that much, maybe she just got here and didn't see him shoot his web shooters, maybe he can say he's trying out a new Halloween costume, maybe he can say that he wanted to see how hard it was to be a superhero for a college essay. No matter how many lies ran through his head he knew that ultimately he was screwed. There was no getting out of this. Y/N knew that he was Spiderman and she was going to tell everyone, his life would never be the same again.

As Y/N's eyes scanned over Peter's face she noticed that he was panicking. "Relax Peter, I'm here to help, I would never say anything to anyone... last night, I was the one who helped you..." Y/N wasn't sure how Peter was going to take the news. Her eyes locked onto his as she was trying to figure out if this was a good thing or a bad one.

Before either of them got a chance to say anything else the man who Peter was fighting ripped the web off his face and was reaching for the gun that he had dropped mere moments before. Y/N acted as quick as possible and using her powers she sent a surge of matter towards the gun, moving it to where the man couldn't reach it. Peter was even more in shock than he was before. He shot his web shooters at the man a few more times to ensure that he was completely stuck this time and wouldn't be going anywhere.

Peter shook his head and chuckled. "I knew your voice sounded familiar."

"That's exactly how I felt, I spent the better half of the last day trying to figure out where I knew your voice from, little did I know, it was right in front of my nose." Y/N smiled up at Peter, she felt safer now knowing that she knew someone who also had powers. She left less alone, though her mind hasn't completely changed about being an Avenger, she was letting the idea gravitate around her brain.

"I gotta admit when I first saw you I was so scared." Peter let out a sigh of relief.

"Yeah I could tell, you looked like you were about to pass out. I would never tell anyone who you are, that's not who I am, even if I didn't have the abilities that I have, I'd never go out of my way to make someone else's life miserable." You sent Peter a reassuring glance. While Peter was about thank her for what she had said, he suddenly remembered that he had been shot. Looking down Peter was met with a hole in his suit that was gushing blood.

"Shit, I think I should go get this stitched up," Peter mumbled. Y/N could see his face getting whiter by the second.

"Okay, I'll come with you, I mean to make sure you're okay. Wouldn't want all my hard work saving you all the time to go down the drain" Y/N said sarcastically and smiled at Peter.

"Oh yes, we definitely should stick together. I have no idea what I'd ever do without you." Peter smirked and started to limp out of the alley.

"So where are we headed? I assume you can't just walk into the hospital with a gunshot wound." Y/N followed after Peter.

"Uh, I could stop by my Aunt May's work, she would know how to stitch this up, but I really don't want to be yelled at about being more safe right now. So I think I'm gonna head over to the compound, Bruce or Dr. Cho can help." Peter decided that it might be faster to get to the compound if he swung him and Y/N there on his webs. "Hey, what do you think about me getting us to the compound faster?" Peter questioned. "I was thinking I could use my web-shooters, and you could just grab on? I promise I'll try extra hard not to drop you." Peter smirked.

Y/N wasn't sure what she was more nervous about, being several feet off the ground, or going to the Avengers compound, though she was scared, she didn't want to make Peter walk the entire way there on his injured leg and she also wanted to make sure that he arrives there safe. "Uh yeah, but I'm gonna need you to do a lot more than trying to not drop me." Y/N tried to seem like she wasn't as scared as she really felt.

Peter could tell that she was nervous so he threw his hand across his chest and placed it over his heart. "Y/N I swear on the entire city, that I shall not drop you," Peter said sounding ever so serious.

Y/N grinned at him and shook her head. "Yeah yeah, let's go." She grabbed onto him and squished her eyes shut as tight as they could possibly go, even though she had to be up in the air that didn't mean that she had to keep her eyes open.

Once arriving at the compound Peter landed safely at the front doors, looking down at Y/N she still had her eyes squeezed shut, Peter smiled softly, "Hey, you can open your eyes now, we're here." Y/N slowly opened her eyes and looked around her, as if to make sure he wasn't lying to her. "See, I told you I wouldn't drop you." Peter smiled as Y/N let go of him and took a step back.

"Okay, well, glad you made it here safe, I'm gonna head home now." Though Y/N knew that Peter wasn't going to let her just leave, it didn't stop her from trying. Peter grabbed her hand before she got the chance to take a step away.

"Uh absolutely not, what would happen if I run into a bad guy in the hallway? Who's gonna save me?" Peter looked at her with a smile on his face and still not letting go of her hand.

"I think the Avengers can help you out from here, you don't need me," Y/N chuckled to herself and tried not to focus too hard on the fact that Peter was practically holding her hand. Though it seemed like she wasn't trying hard enough as Peter pulled his hand away from hers and gasped.

"Jeez Y/N, you could've just asked me to let go you didn't have to shock my hand." Peter grinned at her. Her face must be the darkest shade of red at this point, this can't be happening.

"I swear that was an accident, I didn't mean to, I'm not even sure what happened.." Y/N tried to come up with something witty to say, anything that would get her out of this situation that she was currently in, but she couldn't think of anything, in fact she couldn't think at all, why did that happen, why did her powers act up and shock him, that's never happened before.

"Hey Y/N I was just joking, I love that we have a spark between us." Peter chuckled at her expense. Though he was trying to make her smile it only turned her face more red. She pretended to play it off and threw a light punch at his arm.

"Okay okay, you're a regular comedian, I can't stop laughing at all your funny jokes, let's see how much you're laughing when you get those stitches," Y/N smirked up at Peter as she watched his smile falter slightly.

"Mhm, let's go get this over with, you gotta hold my hand though so you can't be shocking me anymore." Peter was just throwing these jokes around, Y/N shook her head and smiled.

"Maybe I should shock you, maybe it'll get your mind off the pain that you're gonna be in." If Peter wanted to make jokes at Y/N's expense she would do the exact same thing to him.

"Mkay, you do that." Peter opened the compound door and Y/N walked through.

They had walked down what seemed like eight different hallways before he stopped in front of a set of double doors. "So this is the med bay, usually it's empty unless we go on big missions and someone gets hurt." Peter opened the door for her and urged her to walk inside. Once she entered she was met with Bruce Banner sitting on a chair at one of the tables studying a flower.

"Looks who's back, Peter I swear you were here just a few days ago." Bruce sighed and went over to grab what looked like a med kit.

"I mean in my defense I am out saving the city." Peter tried to defend the fact that he was always getting hurt though Bruce wasn't having any of it.

"Well, you need to do more of the beating and less of taking the beating." Bruce grabbed one of the hospital beds and Peter took that as an invitation to go and lay down. Y/N wasn't sure what she should do so she didn't do anything, in fact, she hadn't moved since they got in here. Peter looked over at her and gestured for her to sit down in the chair next to his bed. Y/N was hesitant at first then decided that it might be best for her to sit down, she was feeling a little light-headed.

Just as Y/N had sat down next to Peter, Bruce became aware of the fact that there was a stranger in the room. "So uh, is this your girlfriend or something?" Bruce questioned Peter. Y/N wasn't sure how it was possible, but her face had gotten even more red than before.

"No, she's a friend, she helped me when I got shot. We also go to school together." Peter smiled over at Y/N and gave her a reassuring look. She didn't like that they were talking about her, but that didn't mean she was going to speak up.

"You said she helped you when you got shot? How did she help you exactly?" Bruce asked curiously.

Y/N could feel her heart rate speeding up in her chest. She wasn't sure what Peter was going to say, she wasn't sure what she wanted him to say. Peter looked over at her and gave her a questioning look. Did she have him lie to his fellow Avenger, or did he tell the truth? Deciding that she didn't think lying would be a good idea, she spoke up before Peter could say anything.

"Um, I helped him because I have these... powers. I can uh, control energy? If that makes sense." Y/N was pretty sure she sounded insane. She looked up at Bruce and he was already looking at her.

"What do you mean exactly, when you say you can control energy?" Bruce looked at her curiously. Y/N glanced over at Peter quickly before shifting her eyes back over to Bruce.

"I have the ability to control the energy around me and I can use it to my advantage, I could turn the lights off in this entire building if I wanted. I could shoot an energy blast at someone, I could even cause someone to have a heart attack by controlling the energy inside their body." Y/N didn't want to brag, but she also didn't want to lie to Bruce. She could do a lot of things with her powers, and if used the wrong way she could do some serious damage to those around her.

"Hm, I'm interested to see how that works. Once I've finished stitching up Pete would you be willing to show me some of your powers?" Bruce was giving her the option of whether she wanted to use her powers or not, and that meant a lot to her, whether he truly meant it or not, she was more obligated to show him when he had given her a choice.

"I can show you, just let me know when." Y/N wasn't sure what Bruce wanted her to do, but she was willing to show him.

"We can head over to the training yard out back after this, it's a nice open field where the new recruits run drills, it'll be just us back there today though." Bruce was trying to reassure Y/N that they would be alone, no one else would be around to see her use her powers, and for that she was grateful.

___

Once they had made it out onto the training field Bruce let Y/N decide how she chose to show him her powers. She had been standing there thinking for a few moments when she decided to shoot a blast of energy over at one of the trees and shot it down. She looked over at Bruce to see his reaction.

"Wow, okay, yeah that definitely is something. Where did you get these powers from? Were you born with them?" Bruce seemed genuinely curious about her.

Y/N looked down at her shoes, she wasn't sure if she was ready to talk about that moment in her life yet, she had been to several therapists and still wasn't over the PTSD that she encountered. "Um, I'm not too comfortable talking about that... let's just say I didn't want them, but I have them now and there's nothing I can do about it." Bruce looked over at her with a sad smile.

"Hey, no worries, you're not obligated to tell me anything. If you ever need someone to talk to you can always talk to me, I know we just met but still." Bruce was trying to make her feel better since he had been the one to dig up a repressed memory of hers.

"Thank you, I don't really have anyone else to talk to about this sort of thing so that means a lot to me, I had to go through all of this alone, I didn't have anyone there to help me or tell me everything was going to be okay, after... what happened.. I was all alone." Y/N was shocked that she felt safe enough with Bruce to tell him how she was feeling, she had just met him less than half an hour ago and here she was talking to him like she had known him for years.

"We've all been there, having powers or abilities isn't always accepted and normalized. Though there is our group, we're more of a family, If you ever need help with anything we'd be happy to step in." Bruce had moved closer to her and was now standing right next to her.

"Thanks." Y/N decided that she didn't want to share much more about herself with Bruce, at least not today. Before she got the chance to say anything else Peter walked out and joined them both in the field.

"Hey, sorry it took me a second to get out here I had to call May and tell her where I was. She had tried to call me a few times." Peter seemed to be walking normally now, almost as if he hadn't gotten shot an hour ago.

"I should probably head out. I don't want to intrude." Y/N looked over at Peter and shot him a tight lipped smile. She was beginning to feel uncomfortable being in the Avengers compound for so long.

"Uh yeah, I can bring you home... Where do you live?" Peter asked her.

Y/N wasn't sure if she wanted to tell him that she was living alone in an apartment downtown that was infested with rats and cockroaches. She didn't want him to see where she lived, so she lied.

"Oh uh, I actually have to.. stop at the grocery store and pick up something for dinner, so you don't have to come with me it's okay." Y/N prayed that Peter took her lie and left it alone, but of course he didn't.

"Y/N I'm not just gonna let you walk home alone, it's starting to get dark." Peter looked at the sky and recognized the fact that the sun was starting to go down. There was no way that he was letting her walk home alone.

"I'm sure I can manage to get home by myself Peter I promise I'll even text you when I get home, I think I'm more than capable of taking care of myself." Y/N was trying hard to convince Peter to let her go home alone but it wasn't working.

"Not gonna happen, I'll just go to the grocery store with you, or you can eat at my house with me, May is cooking mac and cheese. I promise you will like it, she makes the best mac and cheese." For whatever reason Peter didn't want to let Y/N go, he felt protective of her and he wasn't sure why. Y/N knew that she was not going to be able to convince Peter that she could make it home on her own, he would be going with her whether she liked it or not, so she might as well just go with him and eat some of his Aunt May's dinner, it beats eating a can of soup for dinner.

"Alright Parker, I'll come over and eat dinner with you and your Aunt." Y/N rolled her eyes and headed back into the compound. Peter looked over at Bruce and told him goodbye. Bruce nodded his head and before Peter could run after Y/N, Bruce stopped him.

"Keep an eye on her, she's hurting, and lonely. Make sure she's okay, be a good friend to her." Bruce asked Peter. Peter looked over at Bruce and gave him a reassuring nod. Peter was going to make sure Y/N knew that she wasn't alone, he would be her friend.

While Y/N was waiting for Peter to come back inside she was looking around the hallways in the compound that lead to the front door. She wasn't sure how people didn't get lost in here, the place was massive. She was busy looking at one of the art pieces on the wall when someone walked up beside her.

"Hello, I don't believe I've ever seen you before." The man had asked her. Y/N was started by his voice as her head whipped to the side and she came face to face with Tony Stark.

"Oh, I'm- I'm a friend of Peter's..." Y'N wasn't sure what to say. She was nervous. She left safe around Bruce where Tony makes her feel like she's in trouble.

"Don't worry kid, I'm not gonna put you in time out. Just wanna make sure you're meant to be here and I'm not just paying millions of dollars for a security system that doesn't work." Tony gave her the slightest of smiles and glanced down at his phone. "Speaking of that kid, where is he?" Tony didn't bother looking up from his phone.

"Um, I think he's outside with Bruce, out on the training field." Y/N spoke in a hushed tone as if she was scared she was going to get yelled at.

"Okay, lead the way. I heard he got shot today so I need to go scream at him for a few minutes, you know how it is." Tony stated. Y/N didn't really know how it was. She didn't have any parents or anyone really, she didn't have someone who cared enough about her safety that if she were to get shot they'd be mad at her.

"Uh yeah." She didn't want to seem rude so she agreed anyway. Tony let Y/N pretend like she was leading the way though Tony ended up taking the lead after Y/N almost made a wrong turn.

"So, how do you know Peter?" Tony spoke up. Y/N was getting tired of being questioned about her affiliation with Peter.

"Oh we're friends from school, we have a few classes together." Y/N wasn't necessarily lying to him, she was friends with him and they did have a few classes together. Is that the entire reason that she knows him? no. But that doesn't matter.

Once Y/N and Tony had arrived outside Tony went right over to Peter and began scolding him. "Getting shot, really Peter? What were you thinking?" Peter knew that Tony cared about him, that's why he was out here yelling at him. Tony wanted to make sure that Peter was safe.

"I know, I know. It's a good thing that Y/N was there. She kind of saved my life. Or at least that's what she likes to say." Peter smiled over at Y/N and sent a wink her way.

"Uh hu, good for you guys. Glad someone was there to save your ass when you put yourself in stupid situations all the time. Peter, I promised your Aunt May that nothing bad would happen to you when she agreed to let you be an Avenger, and here you are getting shot." Tony was hoping that this talk would knock some sense into Peter but he knew that it ultimately wouldn't matter what he said. Peter would continue to do stupid things and Tony would have to continue cleaning up the mess that he left behind.

"I know, I'm sorry, it won't happen again I swear." Peter smiled up at Tony. Though they both knew he was lying they both decided to drop the subject.

"So, what's this I hear about Y/N saving your ass? How'd she manage that?" Tony glanced over at Y/N expectantly and she knew that she was going to have to show another person how her powers worked today. Y/N was starting to wonder if it would have been better to just have left Peter alone in the alley when he got shot. Knowing that she was lying to herself.

"Uh, I have these... powers. Um, I can control energy..." Y/N was about to show her abilities when Bruce spoke up.

"Yeah she showed me earlier, I watched her knock down that giant tree back there with a surge of energy she shot out of her hand, it was pretty cool. She also mentioned something about how she can control the energy in a building and the energy in people's bodies." Bruce spoke to Tony. Tony looked over and Y/N and looked her up and down.

"Huh, interesting, do you mind showing me?" Tony didn't want to give Y/N the option of whether she wanted to show him her powers or not. He wanted to see them for himself. Y/N looked over at the same tree she had shot down earlier and sent another surge of energy toward it, ultimately causing the tree to explode in the process. Tony stared at the tree for a moment, seeming to be thinking about something.

"Okay, you're in. Do you have a suit or something? I can make you one. Let's go inside and we can discuss your power some more. I could definitely use your help on our next mission. I could use you to shut down the power in the building. We got wind of some HYDRA agents working in a building in Russia." Tony spoke to Y/N while typing on his phone, probably talking to someone else about her. Y/n wasn't sure what to say. On one hand, she still didn't want to be an Avenger, yet on the second and she wouldn't mind being part of this so-called family Bruce had mentioned to her. Y/N missed having a family.

"I don't think Y/N is interested in becoming an Avenger," Peter spoke up. Y/N glanced over at him before looking back at Tony.

"Are you sure kid? I can make you a suit like Peters, one with a mask. No one would know who you are." Tony stopped typing on his phone and put his full attention on Y/N. Hoping that she might change her mind. Y/N thought hard about her decision before nodding her head and agreeing to become the newest member of the Avengers. Tony had promised to keep her identity hidden and she would hold him to that.

"Okay, I mean, I don't want you guys to announce me as the newest Avenger or anything in the media, but I guess I could help you guys out every now and again..." Y/N spoke up while looking over at Peter. He was more than excited that he would get to see more of her now that she was going to be an Avenger.

"Perfect, Y/n, Peter. Come with me. We can discuss your new suit and I can introduce you to Steve. He'll want to meet you." Tony began walking back into the compound and expected that Y/N and Peter would follow him. Y/N looked over at Bruce and he gave her a friendly smile, she smiled back.

_____

Once getting inside Tony's office they began talking over ideas for her suit, she insisted that she wanted to stay with her signature pink and black colors but then she gave Tony full artistic power. She didn't really mind what it looked like and she was sure that Tony knew what he was doing at this point when it came to designing suits for people. After all, he did make every one of Peter's suits.

"Alright, if you don't need anything else from us we might get going, I promised Aunt May that I would be home for dinner" Peter mentioned looking over at Y/N.

"Wow, already taking her home to meet the family, you two must be very serious then." Y/N and Peter could tell that Tony was just trying to mess with them.

"Haha, very funny," Peter said sarcastically. "I just invited her over for dinner, Aunt May is making mac and cheese."

"Okay, I don't actually care that much, You two run along. Y/N stop by tomorrow with Peter and take a look at the suit, I'll have the sketch drawn up by tomorrow then we can take your measurements." Tony didn't look up from his computer while talking.

"You got it, once school is done I'll be right over." Y/N smiled at him even though he wasn't looking at her, she would never admit it but she was kind of excited to see the suit that Tony had designed for her.

___

Once Peter and Y/N had arrived at May's apartment Peter walked in with Y/N behind him.

"Oh you must be Y/N Peter texted me and let me know you'd be coming by for dinner, I hope you like mac and cheese." May smiled at Y/N, she was standing in the kitchen with her hair in a bun and some sweats on.

"I love mac and cheese, Thank you for having me, your home is lovely." Y/N wanted to be as nice as possible, and May was giving her a free meal after all.

"Thank you, It's small but it's just enough room for me and Peter here." May Smiled glancing over at Peter. "Well, you two go sit in the living room, I'll call you guys once it's ready, there's juice and water in the fridge you guys help yourself." May stated while stirring a pot of macaroni. Peter glanced over at you.

"Do you want anything to drink?" Peter asked you.

"Uh no I'm okay for right now, thanks." Y/N smiled lightly and headed out towards the direction May had said the living room was leaving Peter alone in the kitchen with May.

"Peter you never said she was gorgeous." It was like May was trying to embarrass Peter.

"Okay Aunt May, I'm gonna go into the living room and sit with Y/N" Peter was blushing but May decided not to comment on it.

"Alrighty, be safe. No kissing." May giggled to herself as she watched Peter shake his head and walk away. He prayed that Y/N didn't hear any of their conversation.

Peter and Y/N had been sitting on the couch together for around 15 minutes just watching TV before one of them had the courage to say anything. Of course, Peter spoke first.

"So, are you actually excited about Tony making you a suit, about maybe becoming an Avenger?" Peter was nervous that she was going to say no, and that she wasn't going to show up to meet with Tony after school tomorrow.

"I am, I really didn't think that I would but I am, I'm excited to get to hang out with you more as well, since you're an Avenger we'll get to hang out more often." Y/N spoke staring at the TV, nervous to look over at him, What if this entire time he hadn't really been flirting with her, what if he was just playing around.

"I'm glad to hear you say that. I wanna hang out with you more than anything, and I'm glad you are excited to join the Avengers. It's more fun than it sounds, there's game nights, parties, family dinners." Peter smiled at Y/N slightly turning his body towards hers. She took that as a sign to look over at him. her face was red and his was slightly pink. An overwhelming feeling took over both of them as they looked into each other's eyes. Peter looked down at Y/N's lips and started to lean in towards her.

"DINNER!" May had shouted from the kitchen. Peter sighed and got up from the couch, putting his hand out for Y/N to grab. She smiled lightly and took his hand getting up from the couch and heading into the kitchen with Peter. Once they had entered the kitchen May was setting the table with some plates. She smiled up at the both of them and glanced at their intertwined hands.

"Sit wherever you like, the mac and cheese is just on broil right now to crisp up the top. You both can start with some of the salad if you would like." May gestured for them to both grab some salad. Peter sat down in his usual spot and Y/N sat across from him with May eventually sitting next to them both at the head of the table.

"Do you want some salad?" Peter questioned while holding up a scoop of salad. Y/N nodded her head and lifted up her plate bringing it closer to Peter. He set some salad on her plate and then gave himself some.

"Alight it's ready, please remember that it did just come out of the oven, do not burn your mouths." May had warned them while setting the dish of mac and cheese on the table.

_____

After dinner, Y/N was putting her shoes on at the door when Peter started to put his on as well. Y/N didn't want to be rude but she really didn't want him walking her home.

"I really don't need you to walk me home, it's okay. I'll even text you when I get home." Y/N was hoping that Peter would take her up on her offer, she prayed that he would let her go home on her own.

"I can't do that, I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if I let you walk home on your own and something bad happened to you, you saved me twice in the last 24 hours. No way am I gonna let you walk home alone." Peter grabbed her bag and put it on his back. She smiled at him softly and shook her head. Fine then, but she wasn't stopping at her actual house.

On their walk home Y/N and Peter had been talking about Peter's past missions with the Avengers. He was telling her about the time he got recruited by Tony and got to fight Captain America, they were all buddies now.

They had been walking for around 20 minutes when Y/N stopped in front of some random house about 5 minutes from her true home. Her real house was nothing like this place, her place didn't have a nice wrap-around porch, and her place didn't have a beautiful garden. Her place was filthy, and gross, and often had drug dealers out front. She wished she lived here.

"Wow, nice place." Peter looked at the house in awe, this place was nicer than he thought it would be.

"Yeah, thank you. Well, I'll see you tomorrow." Y/N didn't want to seem like she was rushing him but she was kind of tired and just wanted to go to bed, but she had another 5 minutes to walk once Peter left.

"Yeah absolutely. I'll just make sure you get inside okay and I'll be on my way, Aunt May always raised me to make sure people get inside their house safely before I walk away." Peter smiled. Shit, no. Y/N was officially screwed. She stood there thinking of ways to get out of the current situation she put herself in.

"Oh uh, I must have forgotten my keys at school," Y/N spoke quickly looking up at Peter. He looked down at her confused.

"You mean the keys that are in your hand?" Peter pointed down at her hand. She looked down and noticed that she indeed had her keys in her hand. Fuck, she was officially screwed. Peter grabbed her arm lightly.

"Y/N what's going on?" Peter asked genuinely concerned. Y/N squeezed her eyes shut and shook her head. Peter was growing more concerned by the second.

"Y/N talk to me, tell me what's wrong?" Peter squeezed her arm lightly in an attempt to get her attention. She sighed and felt her eyes start to tear up.

"This isn't my house, I don't live here." Y/N wasn't making eye contact with him. Her vision was fixed on the house in front of her. She wished that the ground would just open her up and swallow her.

"Okay... So whose house is it? And where do you actually live?" Peter was confused as to why she would lie to him about where she lived. Y/N looked over at Peter and he noticed that she was crying.

"I live a few blocks over, in a shitty apartment. That's infested with b bugs and rats. I didn't want you to see where I lived, it's embarrassing but it's all I can afford." Y/N felt incredibly valuable telling this to Peter, she had only really started talking to him today. And now he knows that she lives in a dump.

Peter's brows furrowed. He didn't understand. All she could afford? "What do you mean all you can afford?" Peter refused to break eye contact with her. He didn't even want to blink.

"I live alone... I'm on government-assisted living... I don't have a family. I have no one." Y/N was whispering at this point, scared that if maybe she didn't say it out loud she could pretend that she did live here at this house. That she had a mom, and dad who were sitting on the couch watching TV waiting for her to get home safely. She'd go to put her key in the door and her dog would bark at the door ready to greet her.

"Y/N you don't have to lie to me about that stuff, I would never judge or think differently of you." Peter's heart hurt watching Y/N stare at the house in front of them. "We'll stop at your actual apartment and you can pack a bag, you can spend the night with me tonight. Don't argue we're both tired and we have school in the morning. May won't even ask any questions. Trust me." Peter stated. Y/N closed her eyes and looked up at him. How did she get so lucky in the past 24 hours to have met someone like him?

"Okay.." Y/N didn't say anything else as she started walking towards her true apartment. Peter's hand slid down Y/N's arm from where he was holding it and began holding her hand while they walked.

"If you wanna talk about it I'm here." Peter didn't know whether to give her some space or to talk to her.

"Thank you, Peter, but I don't wanna talk about it, at least not right now," Y/N spoke softly and squeezed Peter's hand. She was grateful for his kindness but today had been a lot for her. She was too tired to talk about her trauma. Peter nodded at her and squeezed her hand back.

Once they had arrived at her apartment building Y/N told Peter to wait outside and that she would be right back. After getting a look at the building Peter was reluctant to let her go inside alone but remembered that she did live there. While inside Y/N packed a bag with a few outfits in it and ran to the bathroom to grab her toothbrush. Walking down the stairs towards Peter it seemed that he was on high alert, just waiting for something to happen.

"Ready to go?" Peter asked her while grabbing her bag, he now had both her bags.

"I'm all set. You know I can carry one of the bags, you don't need to carry both." Y/N smiled at him and shook her head.

"Naw I got it, don't even worry about it I'm stronger than I look," Peter smirked at her while flashing his muscles in an attempt to cheer her up. She let out a small laugh and shook her head.

__

Once they arrived back at Peter's apartment they quietly entered. Peter n noticed that all the lights were out and he turned behind him to Y/N and signaled to stay quiet. She nodded her head and followed behind Peter in the direction of his room. Peter placed her bags on his bed and sat down.

"Do you wanna take the bed and I'll take the floor?" Peter questioned. Y/N looked at the bed and then back up at Peter.

"I think we could both share the bed, I mean what is that? A queen?' Y/N didn't want to make it too obvious but she wanted to share the bed with him. Peter smiled softly at her.

"Uh yeah, I think so, I'm just gonna head to the bathroom to brush my teeth and get changed, I'll leave you here to get changed and then you can brush your teeth." Peter smiled at her.

Y/N grabbed her bag and began looking for the pajamas that she packed, While she was looking she realized that she packed two pairs of bottoms and forgot to pack a shirt. Shit. While sitting on the bed she waited for Peter to arrive back from the bathroom. Once Peter had walked into his room he had changed into his pajamas and sent a questioning look over at Y/N.

"You wearing that to bed?" Peter asked her.

"No uh, I forgot to pack a shirt to sleep in..." Y/N was looking down at her fingers while she played with her nails. Peter smiled to himself.

"I'll grab you one of mine, trust me they're comfy." Peter walked over to his closet and grabbed her his 'I love New York" t-shirt for her to wear. She grabbed it from him and thanked him in the process.

"I'll just change in the bathroom, thanks again for the shirt." Y/N smiled at him still embarrassed that she had to ask for one of his shirts.

___

Y/N had walked as quietly as she could towards the bathroom and brushed her teeth while staring at Peter's shirt. It was taking everything in her not to sniff the shirt. Once she was done brushing her teeth she changed into Peter's shirt and looked at herself in the mirror. His shirt was longer on her than her shorts were. It looked almost like she wasn't wearing anything else. She blushed to herself before heading out of the bathroom towards Peter's room.

Once entering back in his room she shut the door behind her before turning around towards Peter's bed. He looked up from his phone and glanced at her. Holy Shit. Peter couldn't help but blush at her. Seeing her in his shirt had more of an effect on her than she thought it would. She was gorgeous.

"My shirt looks good on you." Peter smiled at her and pulled the blanket back on his bed to invite her in. She smiled at him and got in bed next to him. Peter laid down and turned to face her. Y/N plugged her phone in and laid down facing Peter. They stayed in silence just looking into each other's eyes. Peter wanted nothing more than to kiss her, but he wasn't sure if that's what she wanted. Y/N glanced down at Peter's lips and he took that as an invitation to slowly move in towards her. Y/N closed her eyes and moved in towards him as well. Once their lips touched Y/N could feel the butterflies in her belly, he tasted like mint toothpaste. Peter moved his arm to grab her waist and pulled her in closer to him. Y/N put her hand on the back of his neck in an attempt to somehow pull his face closer to hers. Y/N pulled her leg over his and pushed Peter over onto his back with her sitting on his lap. Though the kiss broke it was only for a mere second before Peter was pulling her face back down to his. Y/N couldn't help but grind her hips against his in hopes of relieving some of the pressure between her thighs. Peter gripped her hips tightly and helped move her hypes in a rhythm they both seemed to like, very much. Y/N could feel his cock hardening through his pants. Y/N pulled back to catch her breath. Peter looked up at her and smiled.

"You okay?" Peter asked her. Y/N smiled and nodded her head blushing.

"Yeah, I'm okay, just not sure if I'm ready for more than this. At least not tonight. I'm so tired. sorry." Y/N felt bad that she was leaving him with a boner but she wasn't ready to do anything more.

"Don't apologize I completely understand. Let's go to sleep, you have a big day tomorrow." Peter was referencing the meeting that Y/N had with Tony after school tomorrow. Y/N nodded her head and gave Peter one last kiss before climbing off him and resting in her original spot next to him. Peter leaned over and kissed her forehead before putting his arms around her and falling asleep.

Y/N lay in bed thinking about the last 24 hours of her life. She was happy, and though she still had walls up around her heart she could feel them cracking. Peter was making her happier than she'd ever been in her entire life, and that scared her. She wanted to be happy, everyone does. But she was scared to let herself be happy, in fear that it would be ripped from her arms. Y/N looked over at Peter and studied his face. He was snoring softly and his face looked so peaceful. She envied Peter for the little family he had, the Avengers loved him and he had May to take care of him. Y/N had no one, She was excited to see Tony tomorrow after school and hopefully, her life would begin to change. She wanted happiness for herself. She deserved it.

[supernatural-bias]

𝐄𝐳𝐫𝐚 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐛𝐥𝐞

↳ notes: read this before continuing if you want. it's a little bit about ezra that might be vital going into this drabble. also linked here is the scene that this is based off of, so watch a little bit of that to refresh any of your memories. also don't judge my writing. it's been a while since i've written a battle scene

↳ warnings: supernatural type violence

↳ song: take a slice—glass animals

sona masterlist | commissions | carrd

Alastair's hands were wrapped around Castiel's throat, and he was yelling. Yelling something in a language that, in the moment, Ezra couldn’t bring himself to recognize. All he could recognize was the feeling of cool metal in his hands and an acute burning like pinpricks behind his eyes as he raised his arms upm and brought down a slab of metal across the demon's skull.

Alastair stumbled backward slightly, knocked off his balance by the sheer force and timing of the blow, and released Castiel from his grasp. somewhere over his shoulder Dean made a noise at the back of his throat. Sam followed suit, no doubt aware of the situation they were all in.

Ezra would have celebrated — whooped in excitement, even, that he had managed to whack the head honcho demon across the noggin' that good, and with a busted shoulder at that — but when Alastair turned around, all he could see reflected in those cold eyes was the all suffering he was going to feel for that.

“So the ghost finally grew a spine.” Alastair bared his teeth in a shark's grin, and every smart ass quip Ezra thought up in response was thrown out the window when his throat began to close up.

Dean and Sam dropped to their knees not soon after he did, and it didn't take a genius to figure out that Alastair’s sharp smile was behind it. Around them lights flashed and bodies were thrown to the hay covered ground, but all Ezra could think to do was claw at his throat in a panic. Sure, he knew he would have to die again some day, but he’d promised himself it would be to old age this time, or a graceful stage dive in the middle of a dingy bar. Not to some grade-a demon that he’d pissed off in the wrong moment; all to save a fucking angel that had threatened to kill him mere hours ago — looking at him with the saddest eyes he’d ever seen.

When the distant echo to shut his eyes came, it was all Ezra could do but to listen just in time.

Immediately after feeling a burst of heat dance across his skin, the swelling in his throat ceased, and Ezra was brought to his hands and knees as he gulped down air greedily. Sam and Dean got to their feet almost immediately, and the youngest Winchester was the one that helped haul him up by the shoulders.

“You alright?” Ezra registered Sam’s question through the ringing in his ears.

“No.” He groaned, blinking as if trying to get rid of the sharp feeling in his eyes by sheer force. “And what, you and Dean are? Have you guys built up an immunity to choking-by-demon over the past few years or something?”

“Or something,” Sam sighed. He let go of Ezra after a moment, figuring that if he was lucid enough to be mouthing off, then he was fine to stand on his own. They both stood next to the Dean as he picked up the demon blade up off the ground, balancing it in his hands while castiel approached from nearby. Uriel and Castiel were also up now, and heading in the same direction, albeit with heavier looks.

Alastair and his posse were no longer around, and Ezra had a feeling it had something to do with the noticeable lack of Anna. He couldn’t tell if that was something to be grateful for, or worried about, but frankly all he cared about now was sitting down for a throat lozenge and cup of tea. One thing at a time, he supposed.

“Well what are you guys waitin’ for.” Dean’s chest rumbled like the clouds before a storm as he spoke. The two angels watched him with powerful intent behind their eyes as he did so. “Aren’t you gonna go get Anna? Unless, of course, you’re scared.”

"This isn’t over.” Uriel hissed. In the background, Ruby stood up from where she had been splayed out in the hay and began limping her way over. Sam was the only one to take his eyes off of Uriel and Castiel as she did so.

“Oh it looks over to me, junk-less.” Dean didn’t back down under their gaze, and it seemed like he wasn’t going to anytime soon.

“You’re welcome, by the way.” Ezra grunted after a moment. It came out as a bit of a strangled laugh. “Choking to death isn't as easy as it looks, especially when it comes to saving your feathered asses.” He knew that was a bit of a stretch, considering he had been losing air for the majority of the battle, but he didn't always want Dean to get the last word in.

This seemed to garner the attention of Castiel, if only for a second. His calloused hand was outstretched over to his partners shoulders, preventing Uriel from doing anything he would regret, but his eyes were set on Ezra's face. Searching for something with those same sorrowful eyes as before.

Whatever it was, he didn’t find it.

“You’re not even supposed to be here.” Castiel finally murmured. Ezra felt the heat behind his eyes start back up again, and this time he really didn't understand why.

The flutter of wings, a slight gust of air, and then the both of them were gone, leaving behind three bruised adults, and one bleeding demon.

[just-astrology-stuff]

Hi ! I was wondering if you could do Libra sun Gemini moon and Aries rising ? :)

Libra sun, Gemini moon, Aries rising.

Curiosity and inner restlessness spur you on to explore the world, to search for answers and hidden meaning. Detached and objective, you are a real intellectual, and it’s difficult for you to understand those who are content with surface impressions or who choose to dwell upon the superficial aspects of life. Eloquence is one of your greatest gifts. You can convince anyone of just about anything, because people can sense your inherent honesty and respond positively to graceful, easygoing manner. Even though you often alienate others with your incisive wit, most people appreciate your candor and realize your intentions are always the best. Boredom and indifference are the two things you must always struggle against. Enthusiastic and high-strung, you have a love for excitement and variety. Half the time you’re busy getting yourself into trouble and the other half you are busy trying to get yourself out of it! But those troubles are never at the expense of others' as being unfair will always bug you at the back of your mind.

You tend to view life from such a detached perspective, you may easily fall into the trap of believing that the world offers no one solace or hope. Then, instead of putting your faith in the here and now, you may search out otherworldly experiences through mysticism and the occult, or through your bizarre imagination. A pagan and a rebel at heart, no matter how hard you try to conform and adapt to the world you live in, you’ll never get over the feeling that you really belong in some other time and place. (A better look at 12th house and 1st house placements will help me elaborate on this more). With Aries ascendant you may have a strong push and pull tendency with wanting to be your true self but at the same time wanting to be some other version of yourself that may "suit" a group of people or situation better. In such cases, as self preservation, you may feel your social battery is a little drained as you slowly recognise this pattern about yourself.

One thing you have going for you is your sense of humour. You are able to laugh at yourself and at the human condition. So no matter how sad or alienated you may become, your underlying lightheartedness and appreciation of life’s irony should see you through. Humour and light hearted gossip is also a great way for you to make friends. You have great diplomatic skills and you may be able to avoid any conflicts or fights as long as do not take things too personally. You have a good balanced personality and are very self aware! At your worst, you have to be careful not to get too self critical or too egoistic! (again something that can be better explained looking at 12th house, 4th, 5th and 8th house placements). You're great at leadership roles- not just a leader that gives orders but gets down to the level of their team and listens. It is every other week you find a creative/intellectual project for yourself and you give it your all! Aries ascendant are famous for starting projects with soo much vigour they can burnout midway. But your Libra sun may keep pushing as it is "the right thing to do" to finish what you've started. I'm seeing a pattern of self-care that is essential for you to maintain- mentally and emotionally.

I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed making this post for you! Feel free to tip me if this resonates; feedback is appreciated always! Any queries related to payment can be addressed through DM. Check out my other posts here.

[asha-mage]

WoT S2 Premier - The Good, the Interesting, and the Messy

Now that I've had a chance to sleep on it and become half way coherent again, I want to say that I really really liked what their doing so far in season 2. You can see the seems of course, the places where COVID era production and changes had to shift things around, but the show is continuing it's central ethos of adapting the heart of the series and characters, even while having to shift the details to suit their limitations and medium, and that to me is far far more important then one-to-one accurate book scenes.

I don't have anything bad to say about the show, so instead I am going to split up my more general thoughts into three broad categories: The Good (stuff I adored), The Interesting (Things I'm very very curious to see where they are headed), and the Messy (the places where some of their working within limitations has created complex problems for further down the road, or might inform certain things more directly).

The Good

Every actor so far has knocked it out of the fucking park. I have to give special shout outs to Rosamund Pike, Joshua Stradowski, Zoe Robins, Natasha O'Keeffe, and Ceara Coveney for really clearly managing to convey the nuances and complexities of their characters in ways that just blow me away. The show's writing continues to get these characters on a fundamental level and every actor is turning in a performance that conveys their heart so well.

The visual look of the show still rules, but channeling especially has taken a huge step forward in how it's depicted. I didn't mind the way it looked in season 1 the way some did, but I appreciate that they've decided to hew to something closer to what the Darkhorse Comics did, especially as we have so many characters now trying to figure out how to actually channel the One Power.

I also like that we're seeing sharp differences already in the different groups channel, just visually. The Aes Sedai use sweeping graceful gestures, the damne sharp, short gestures, with little wasted energy, all clearly rehearsed as if drilled into the military style.

In other ways the visuals of the show, especially in it's art direction, also rule. The way Cairhien has a mix of Versailles era France and Han Era China in architecture and fashion. The way the Seanchan feel alien, strange, and other, and yet how key parts of their Empire's culture come through even as their conquering and destroying.

The use of the Texan/American accents hits the PERFECT balance I was hoping for to add to that level of strangeness. It's not heavy enough to be a joke, but it's so stark in comparison to everyone crisp vaguely European accents. On that note- the sheer brutality of the village's subjugation, this tiny nowhere village probably somewhere on Almoth Plane, just one ant being smushed by the huge fingers of the Empire. Talk about effective introductions.

The Interesting

I was admittedly a little skeptical of the choice ot have Rand working a asylum but having seen the show I'm glad I reserved judgement because it fits in perfectly with hie Messiah vibe. Here is the savior of the world, and is he staying in palaces and toppling cities? No (well not yet). He's spending his time caring for the sick and the mad, doing menial back breaking work for those society rejects and wants to forget. And of course, it's more complicated then simple altruism: Rand is being driven by his own fear of going mad, his own desire to know what he's facing, and yet that compassion still shines through.

I also really like that, since Rand can't be Lan trained in the show, they decided to do something very Jordan: take a classic trope (cooky wise old master) give it a shine of realism (he's got dementia and PTSD from being a vetran soldier) and dig at the humanity underneath (Rand is letting the old man train him as much to help the man as to learn the sword).

Liandrin is a character I'm shocked by how much I am enjoying her in the show. The decision to explore her depths more, to dig into her anger, her arrogance, her desire for control and power, is fascinating, and her relationship with Nynaeve and Egwene even more so. Her scene with Nynaeve where she gets Nynaeve to channel (an adaption of Siuan scene from the books) especially kicks ass. It's got the same fundamental point as the book: Nynaeve is limiting herself, holding herself back, but the show lets it be starker, crueler, because it IS Laindrin, not Siuan.

The choice to have Perrin be solo with the Shienarans, even if was basically forced on the writers by Barney Harris's departure. They don't waste any of that time, using it to explore Perrin's growing sense of isolation, his grief at Lalia, his relationship to Loial, and his growing fear of the wolves. I've always felt that Perrin, who is very introspective and quite, was the hardest of the main heroes to adapt, and the ways their bringing his conflict out and literalsing continue to be very smart.

The Messy

Some of the merges have caught me off guard, even though I knew they where coming. Elays and Hurin makes a great deal of sense. I have a strong fondness for Hurin, but I can admit he's an easy cut. It does raise the question though of how they are going to incorporate the element of noblesse oblige, which is an important part of how the series explores it's themes of government, nobility, responsibility, and duty. Of course, even if they had kept Hurin the party splitting means he'd probably be no where near Rand right now, so this was almost certainly the right choice.

Nynaeve's Acceptatron Test. Having sat with it, I still like it a lot, and I understand the choices they've made. I wish it had been a little bit more clear that her decision to go back in the final arch was her decision, having a scene of her forcing the arch to appear with the Power, but overall I think they had a good job otherwise. The first test was always going to have to be different since they've cut Aginor and Balthamel from the show, and the important part was Nynaeve choosing to go back over her own anger and desire for revenge, which they kept. The second arch probably would have required half the run time of the episode if they wanted to do it in full, so I don't mind them condensing it down, and again the important thing is that Nynaeve choose to leave the role of Wisdom behind for good, to seek the power to truly make a difference in the lives of those she cares about. The third arch is the big one, and the point of that sequence was always Nynaeve rejecting paradise in order to go back and protect those she loves. She is offered everything she could possibly want, but it isn't enough because her friends, those in her charge, are still at risk, and nothing has changed. She has to go back to save them, because that is the essence of who she is. The show takes the plank of showing that paradise would be hollow anyways, doomed to fall apart because the world needs Nynaeve, she is called to duty, and she can not reject it. It's....actually moment very reminiscent of Rand's Portal Stone journey/his arc in TGH which makes sense since they've always been parallel characters, and the closest thing to a male and female lead the series has.

Verin being merged with Vandene. This is one that it will take far more for me to decide on. On a very practical level it makes a lot of sense, but it has long term implications for Verin's arc in the series that wont be apparent for a very very long time. How will Adeleas factor into Verin's scheme? Does she know? Is she in on the plan to bring down the Black Ajah? Is she ignorant and Verin has been carrying this off in secret while her own sister had no idea? A lot of how this merger goes hinges on how those questions swing. Also, there is Adeleas's murder to consider. It's likely to be kept, but the circumstances being different, and Verin being Verin, the vengeance she seeks will likely be a great deal more dramatic and direct then what Vandene could do.

Past that though I mostly just have gushing and nitpicks, and far more gushing then nitpicking all things considered. Overall....another banger start. I probably liked the opening to season 1 a little bit better, but I suspect season 2 is going to go to some Interesting Places that I am Ready For.

[alby-rei]

The Astral Artist and His Haughty Hound (IkeVamp; Luigi's Mansion AU, Part 5)

a/n: It's been a while since the last update. Since then, I've graduated master's! Wee! What do you do when you fall head-first into a world inside a painting? Happy reading~ ✨

Series: Comte's Ghost Mansion Tags: Humor, Crack treated seriously, Luigi’s Mansion AU, Spooky scary spectral vampires, Ghostbuster MC Word Count: ~1900 words Characters: You, Vincent, Theo, [Surprise] Previous: Part 4 Next: Part 6

~*~

After dealing with the frivolous phantom named Arthur, you weaved through the winding halls in search of your next target.

Sebastian had marked for you the rooms of the remaining residents and their favorite spots.

A painting studio next? Wow, this mansion has everything!

You wondered how different the manor looked in the daytime. If Sebastian does not find you a way home, would they let you stay with them? Did you want to? Shaking your head, you brushed those thoughts aside.

This is all just one long lucid dream anyway, you thought as you trekked up a flight of stairs.

"Open sesame!" You jammed the master key in. "Woah!"

As soon as you stepped inside, your foot met with air, and you plunged down a starry night cityscape. Time slowed down as the wind picked up in swirls of cobalt blue, trailing across the sky like migrating birds. Stars twinkled in zinc yellow sparks guided by the vibrant orange of a cartoonish crescent moon.

More like a croissant moon, said your stomach while growling.

You stretched your limbs out like a flying squirrel, taking in the sights of a bustling city below. Couples strolled across tiles of spotty ultramarine and red ocher. A farmer pushed a cart of straw. A waiter balanced a tray of glass drinks as he weaved between busy tables. Trees danced to the tune of the wind, each branch shimmering in shades of emerald green. In fact, every inch of the city appeared in constant motion.   

How does such a world exist within a single painter's studio?

Gravity decided you had enough time to enjoy the scenery. You swam in the air towards the farmer's cart. If there was any hope in landing safely, that was your best bet. You held your breath as you hurled down towards your impending doom.

.

.

.

Just kidding!  

You landed in the cart of straw with the grace of a cat. The straw poked into your clothes and scratched against your skin. You climb out of the cart, weighed down by the Poltergust 1899. Thankfully, it did not break on the way down. Otherwise, you would have a bigger problem on your hands.

Brushing yourself off, you looked around for any signs of the artist behind this painterly world. Upon inspection, you found that the city dwellers did not carry distinct facial features. Some had none at all, more like impressions of a face. You wondered if this was how prosopagnosia felt.

You also wondered where you heard that word before.

"Excuse me, miss," said a gentle voice. "If I may trouble you to hold that pose."

Your head darted back and forth to find the source. A blond man peeked his head behind an easel stand. Unlike the rest of the population, his features were crystal clear; cerulean blue eyes and a sheepish smile on creamy skin. Little stars shimmered and swirled onto his features like those of the night sky overhead. An astral artist as beautiful as the world he had brought to life with his brush.

This must be Vincent,*you deduced.

Refusing his request felt like a crime against humanity. Unaccustomed to this sort of attention, you fidgeted in your spot. When you stood still, the colors around you became static. When you moved, the city followed suit. The only one unaffected by this was the painter, who remained engrossed in his work. Your attempts at light conversation were fruitless. He spoke mostly with his eyes with the way they stole glances at you every now and then, studying you. Heat rose to your cheeks as your gaze traveled elsewhere. You blamed the warmth on the bright lights of the coffee shop.

Be still my beating heart, you thought. This is not the time for casual crushes on ghosts.

You were jolted when you heard a loud smack of the paintbrush against wood. Vincent was cleaning his brush from the excess paint. The astral artist's arm shook with the speed of a rubber band. You'd think that brush was possessed, given the force he used to exorcise the spirits within. He stepped back to admire his handiwork, raising the canvas to face the light. His angelic smile was disarming. 

"Can I move now?" You asked, craning your stiff neck.

"Oh, yes! Thank you for your time. You must be a guest at the mansion. My name is Vincent."

"Nice to meet you, Vincent. And what a wonderful city you've created."

He shook his head. "I just paint what I see. The real wonder is the world around us." Stars twinkled excitedly across his cheeks.

You clutched the vacuum tube, explaining to Vincent the real cause of your arrival: to return their spirits to their bodies. You almost felt bad for what you had to do.

Vincent nodded. "In that case, you should find my brother Theo here, too. But, hmm..." He pursed his lips. After rummaging through his briefcase, he scribbled on a piece of paper, then handed it to you in an envelope. "This should help convince him. Please don't be alarmed by his...fiery spirit. Deep down, he is a kind soul."

His words left you skeptical, but you hadn't the heart to voice those concerns. A fiery spirit could mean many things. Given Vincent's gentle nature, *how bad could his brother be?*

"Where would I find him?"

"He usually stays at the pub just around the corner. It's the only one on the block. I'll meet you both in front of the river Rhone."

Waving goodbye to the astral artist, you rounded the corner and found a wooden sign with a beer keg on it. Just as you made your way up some wooden steps, a bloodhound stood in your path.

Similar to Vincent, he stood out from his surroundings. His chestnut-brown fur shimmered with a spectral outline. A silver ear cuff shone on his right floppy ear. His short tail stood on end.

"Intruder! Intruder!" barked the hound. "You're not from one of my dear brother's paintings. How did you get here?"

"Woah, woah. Settle down, boy." You backed up slowly as he drew closer. "Just visiting. I'm looking for—"

He sniffed around your ankles, then your clothes. You shielded the pocket that held Vincent's envelope. The bloodhound's maw pulled back in a snarl.

"An art thief?! Not on my watch!"

"What, no!"

"You stole something of his. It’s in that pocket, I can smell it."

Unable to reason with the haughty hound, you were forced to run in hopes of losing him. He proceeded to chase you around the painted city for a solid thirty minutes.

Huffing and puffing, you looked around frantically for any sign of the river that Vincent mentioned. *Surely he would know how to pacify his guard dog, if that is what he is.*

Your legs grew heavy and rigid like planks of wood. The bloodhound leapt onto your back, sending you tumbling forward.

"Get...off...me!" You struggled against his incessant pawing at your pocket. "I NEED TO FIND THEO."

He stiffened. "For me?"

"For...huh." Still dazed, words eluded you. You revealed the envelope in your pocket, waving it.

A weight was lifted off your chest, and a hand—a human hand—swiped the letter from yours. In front of you stood a tall man with brunet hair swooped left like sharp blades of grass. His cobalt blue eyes scanned the contents of the letter.  

"Why didn't you say so sooner?"

"You wouldn't let me finish!"

He offered you a hand to get up. "Come on, then. We shouldn't keep Vincent waiting."

You got up and brushed yourself off with more insults swirling in your head. Theo was already walking away, cool as a cucumber, as you let out all your frustrations. 

After a short walk, the loud and busy cityscape gave way to tranquil waters and soft sand. A handful of rowboats were docked. The warm yellow light of the buildings reflected onto the river, extending from shore to shore. The shimmering lights above brightened. The crescent moon was out of sight. The astral artist waved and the river swayed in tandem with his sweeping arcs.      

"I hope my little brother didn't trouble you much," Vincent said with a gentle smile.

"Well..." You rolled your eyes at Theo, who whistled loudly while avoiding eye contact.

Though you didn't say more, Vincent's smile fell. "Oh no."

Theo flinched when Vincent pinched his cheek. "Theo... What did we say about reacting impulsively?"

"Urk... I was just trying to keep your work safe."

Vincent sighed. "I understand you meant no harm." His voice trailed off, flicking his head towards you.

Theo inhaled sharply and turned to you. "I'm...sorry. For the way I reacted." He rubbed the back of his neck, looking away.

Vincent pat his head. "You can make up for it with a generous plate of your delicious pancakes."

Your stomach growled approvingly.

"But first, how do we get out of here?" you asked.

"Your device should do the trick," said Vincent with open arms. "Ready when you are."

"Wait!!" shouted Theo. "Me first. I don't...think I can handle seeing Vincent vacuumed like that again."

He has memories of previous nights? you thought. A brotherly bond stronger than paranormal curses, how sweet.

Fulfilling his wish, you captured Theo first, then Vincent. As you did, the world around you swirled in on itself. Blues and oranges blended together, and your sense of direction distorted along with it. The buildings compressed like clay, and the river washed over the stars.

Everything faded to black.

When you opened your eyes, you stood on solid wooden ground in the center of a regular studio.

Moonlight shone through a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. You recognized the paintings on display as the city you ran through. No museum experience could ever live up to what you have seen here. Maybe you should propose the idea of a walk-in painting when—if—you get back home.

Beside your feet, both ghosts had dropped something behind; a paintbrush and magnifying glass. Two more for the count. You were getting good at this.

"Into the pouch you go," you declared, exiting the room with a rejuvenated sense of purpose.

You opened the map to your next destination. The longer you remained here, the harder it was to convince yourself it was just a dream. You touched the furniture you passed by, as a means of testing that theory. The man you met at the Louvre came to mind. Sebastian’s master. The subject of the painting at the entrance hallway.

"Ah," said a velvety voice. "Sebastian didn't tell me we were expecting guests."

You clutched your vacuum tube, aimed at the source. The shadow of a figure came into view. "And you are?"

Expensive leather shoes clicked as a man walked into the light. A large beige coat framed a lithe figure of aristocratic air. Blond hair swept over molten golden irises faintly glow in the dark.

The cause of your arrival in this strange world. He raised a hand to his chest, tipping forward in a noble bow. "I am the head of this mansion. Better known as le Comte de Saint-Germain. Enchanté."

~*~

Tagging: @starlitmanor-network

Back to Masterlist