#BUT I MEAN HOW COULD I NOT EXPLOIT THE CHANCE

[rhettrosunsets]

Team Bonding - Petals And Protection Series| Boblena X Fem!Reader

Pairing: Robert Reynolds X Fem!Floral Powered Reader X Yelena Belova (Boblena X Reader)

Category: Fluff

Summary: You weren't supposed to be a permanent part of the team. You were supposed to heal after your trauma, have a safe place at the tower, and then leave. But after Bob and Yelena admit their feelings and you start dating the team learns more about you leading to a team that would go to war to protect the one light inside the tower.

Based on this ask here!

Masterlist

Read More Of The Petals And Protection Series Here!

Warnings: No use of Y/N. No description of readers looks. Reader is soft spoken and has plant powers. Canon marvel violence. Mentions of readers and Ava's backstories. Bob and Yelena don't play about their girlfriend.

Notes: Aaa! Anon, thank you so much for requesting!! I absolutely love getting to write for this series as it's one of my personal favorites. I hope I did your ask justice, and your other ask should be out hopefully by Sunday! ❤️

You weren’t supposed to be a permanent fixture at the tower in the beginning. Originally you being there was just supposed to be a temporary arrangement of sorts.

You’d gone through hell, been left for dead in a lab after being experimented on, and Yelena and Bob had found you. You needed a safe place to recover, so what better place than the tower. A place where you knew you’d be safe and your powers wouldn’t be exploited or shamed.

The team had no objections to this, you were kind but you often tried staying out of the way, always being stuck to Bob and Yelena’s sides in the beginning.

The chances where if you saw Bob and Yelena, then you’d be found trailing slightly behind for those first few weeks. However, as feelings got admitted, and the three of you began dating it became obvious you’d become a permanent fixture in the tower for good. And the team wasn’t exactly sure what to make of this. 

It wasn’t that they disliked you, truly. Most of them actually admired your strength from a distance. But the issue was they didn’t know much about you.

They knew of your struggles and the hell you’d been through. They knew you really loved plants, and they knew you could make some mean tea mixes, and they knew you didn't ever want to discuss your time in the lab, but that was really it.

You were a soft spoken, kind person, and that made you like a light that none of them knew how to approach.

Sure, you were always kind to everyone, but now, now you were a part of the team whether you went on missions or not. You were one of them, and that was terrifying.

Bucky’s initial instinct was to stay clear of you. You were always kind to him, but he thought you were going to come and go. That you were going to be someone temporary and he didn’t want to form bonds more than necessary if needed.

To be honest, he saw himself in you, and he knew talking to you may bring back memories of his own dark times.

But as it became clearer that you were going to stay, he started talking to you more. He saw the way you watered plants that you hadn’t planted or grown. And he saw how you tried to take care of everyone around you in the ways that you could.

 One night he’d had a pretty horrible nightmare and had gone into the kitchen to get a glass of water and you’d been sitting at the counter. You were making some tea mixes, a bunch of different herbs scattered around the counter as you wroked.

You simply just smiled at him with a soft wave and asked him if he wanted some tea, and that you had just made a calming mix that may help if he needs it. You didn’t push, you didn’t ask him why he was awake, you just offered him a drink and that was that.

 From then on you two would have quick conversations in passing and other times you’d ask him about stuff in the forties and what his experiences were like, and other times he’d ask you about your plant research.  He began to become rather fond of you over time. You brought something brighter to the tower, and he enjoyed the way that Bob and Yelena seemed to light up around you.

Alexei was confused at first, he didn’t quite know how to feel. One day you just appeared in the tower, with Bob and Yelena already seeming protective of you. He saw the way that Bob and Yelena would begin to light up around you, and how the three of you always seemed stuck to one another.

He watched the three of you interact from a distance, watching how over time you all kept falling more and more in love with one another.

He began to ask you about your powers, and what they could do, as you never really showed the full extent of them. You’d show him with a soft smile as you’d make new flowers bloom, or more vines curl around the windows, or even manage to change the shapes and colors of certain plants.

He may not know a lot, but he knew two things. He knew you were something that Bob and Yelena truly needed in their lives and that you made their lives endlessly brighter, and that he’d throw a car for you if anyone tried to hurt you.

John really didn’t know how to feel. He knew you’d been through hell, he knew that Bob and Yelena seemed to adore you, but he really didn’t know much else.

You’d ask him how he was doing in passing, he doesn’t say much, but he watches out for you in his own way. He knows you have a hard time hearing things about certain missions, so he tries to not bring them up around you. You’re a nice person, and someone who the team values, because you make things lighter, even if he wasn’t sold on the idea of the smell of lavender being lathered around the entire tower.

Ava was quiet around you at first, she understood how you felt on a deep level, and she wasn’t sure how to interact with you. It wasn't that she didn't want too, she knew you where extremely nice, and she knew she could trust you, but she had just gone through so much, and didn't know how to branch out a connection to you.

Her pain from her memories was invisible, but it was constant and it was hard for her to articulate how she was feeling.

But then, one day while Ava was sitting on the couch you walked over to where she was sitting and offered her a small plant in a little pot. You softly muttered “If you hold it once it blooms, the flower will change based on your mood. So you don’t have to try to explain your emotions, I use it too sometimes. I know things can get rough sometimes."

And after that day, she knew she could trust you and find a great friend in you. Ava has said exactly once “If anything happens to her I’ll make it personal.” And no one doubted her on that fact.

You may have not been a part of the team originally, but you were ingrained in every inch of that tower now. From the way that the faint scent of lavender lingered in every room, to the plants and vines that littered the widows.

You weren’t just Bob and Yelena's girlfriend, and you weren’t just someone who happened to have powers. You were a part of the team, one of them and you were loved by everyone in their own way.

You’re the one who makes tea mixes for each person and leaves them in the kitchen with their names pasted on small containers. You make relaxation balms and leave them under their doors after especially rough missions. You’re the one who takes care of the Guinea Pig when everyone else is gone.

You never push when someones having a rough day, because you understand exactly what that's like. You just understand everyone in their own way, and you make everyone feel seen.

You may not throw punches or knives, but you are just as much a thunderbolt as any other person on that team. And they all would go to war if it meant making sure the light in the tower stayed bright.

[meimi-haneoka]

I'm going to reply to the asks in the next days, promise! Today it was full day of shitposting for Kaito's birthday and some stuff I had to do for my CCS italian FB page 😂

By the way, I posted it on twitter and saw it had good reactions, so I'm just going to leave this here and slowly walk away.........(Those who have read the special chapter will understand)

[irrepressible-miracle]

I'm trying to look for critiques of season 2-3 of earthspark led me to seeing old names pop up and man... It felt odd then but it's glaringly obvious some people came from cushy lives in first world countries

[jade-curtiss]

Ok but why do people think they can talk to me in an aggressive tone, but if I return the same energy then it's big no no.

[srslylini]

what made season 1 so stunningly good was that every scene could be explained with stuff that happened on screen.

Why did Vi know where to find Vander after Silco took him? well of course because of Ekko who was established in the first few minutes of the first episode to be the character to be on look out.

Why did Powder follow the others to the abandoned building? why because she wanted to feel useful, she wanted for her stuff to work and she wanted to help. She wanted to not be the Jinx. This was all established through character moments that were natural and normal human interactions.

Why did Mel invest in Jayce? Why because first of all her own mother sent her away so seeing Jayce's mother stand up for her son must've hit her. And we see her talking about having to find new investments. Of course she would. He sounds interesting enough. Why not try it? If it doesn't work banishment is still on the table.

Why did Viktor help Jayce? Because he didn't want to stand in Heimerdingers shadow as just an assistant anymore. He was sick and knew the problems of the undercity first hand, he wanted to help. Of course he would, if there was a chance hextech could do it.

Why did Marcus continue to help Silco even after Graysons death? Why, because of his daughter or course. He could be threatened, molded and used. He wanted to establish big things, and was hasty in his youth, and we see 1. Silco exploit that and 2. Marcus regret that.

Why did a shimmer induced Huck help Caitlyn out? Why because as early as the very first episode in Vanders first speaking scene he gets help from Vander and well why wouldn't he then show that help for Vi, knowing he can?

literally every scene makes sense, everything can be explained with stuff that we SEE in the show. There isn't anything "off screen" or just not there.

Now tell me

Why did Caitlyn suddenly switch sides again in season 2 act 2? Why and how did Mel know that her brother wasn't actually her brother? Why did she know how to solve the puzzle? Why is Viktor suddenly floating in the universe? Why does Ambessa just ignore her daughter being abscent outside of that one throw away line? Why do Maddie, Loris and Isha exist? Every chatacter existed for a reason that wasn't just Plot even if they sometimes were just for Plot in season 1. But Maddie, Loris and even ISHA for gods sake, really are just Plot. Isha not as much as Maddie and Loris and thank god for that but still, her character, while I still hope it isn't true, existed to die and further Jinx's pain.

it's just so ugh

Edit: A lot (and I mean a LOT) of people have told me how Kino did make sense and I agree with that now. Though I stand firm with my opinion that we should've gotten to know him before so we could have figured it out even easier with Mel, there were actually signs I didn't notice myself before. Thank's for that.

Plus I will not back down on the fact that Mel just knowing the solution to the puzzle "makes sense cause sHe WaS ShOwn TO Be gOoD WiTh PuZZLes" is stupid. Yes, I know she is smart and good with that. But that's like a whole different thing. It's such a leap I don't know how some of you don't see it.

[wholoveseggs]

Can u make more kol mikaelson smut stories pleaseeee

Rivalry

18+ ---- {Masterlist} {Tag-List}

{Klaus Mikaelson and Kol Mikaelson x Vampire!f!Reader} When Kol interrupts your date with Klaus, the tension between the brothers escalates into a fiery game of wills, and you can’t help but revel (and take full advantage) of the madness.

♡♡ This is dedicated to the many requests I've received for more Kol AND Klaus! Here ya go you filthy animals (affectionate)~ ♡♡

4.7k words - Warnings: smuttty af, threesome, Kol being a teasing menace, jealous and possessive Klaus, furniture breaking, a bit of of chasing, wall breaking, wall sex, standing sex, oral sex (f!receiving), double penetration, blood drinking, ripping clothes (rude!), power dynamics (reader is the boss), && the two wildest originals competing for your affection...

I'll be tagging ya'll in the comments from now on... because tumblr is not built for tagging lots of users... if you want off the tag list just shoot me a DM!!! (I won't be offended ~xo)

Over the years, you have been in a lot of strange situations. It sort of came with the territory of being a vampire. In all of your centuries of living, however, you had never quite been in one as strange as this.

It was one thing to be desired by a man. That happened to you from time to time. And it usually ended with you taking a generous bite out of their neck before leaving them on the floor.

It was a totally different situation, however, when two of the strongest of your species were both trying to seduce you.

The smell of delicious food wafted through the dining room as the servants placed the plates on the table. Klaus sat at the head, a smug look on his face. His gaze sweeping over you like you were one of the hors d'oeuvres.

You knew better than to fall for his charms. But that didn't mean it wasn't a pleasant thought. He had always been rather handsome, and his advances weren't exactly unwanted.

Your gaze fell to the other end of the table, where his younger brother sat, flashing a smirk at you.

If Klaus was charming, then Kol was downright lewd. From the moment he laid eyes on you, he'd made a point to show you exactly what was on his mind.

You shifted in your seat as you recalled his whispered words in your ear, the feel of his breath on your neck. The way he described exactly what he wanted to do with you if given the chance.

Klaus on the other hand had an entirely different approach. One of a much more romantic nature. He had invited you to this private dinner with the intention of getting to know you better. But it seemed that Kol wasn't going to give him the opportunity.

You weren’t sure whether to feel flattered or terrified. Two Original vampires were vying for your attention, and you could practically feel the testosterone thickening the air around you.

It was a strange dynamic, to say the least.

You could tell Klaus was growing irritated. His eyes narrowed at his younger brother, his lips forming a hard line. He didn't want to act aggressive in front of you, this was a delicate game, and he wasn't about to throw away his chances.

Kol knew that, and exploited it mercilessly.

"So, love, have I mentioned how ravishing you look in that dress?" Kol grinned, his gaze slowly moving down your body, burning a path in his wake.

You looked down at your outfit, smoothing the silk against your thighs.

"Thank you, Kol," you replied politely. You could tell that Klaus was silently fuming, his hand tightening on the silverware.

"What's the matter, Nik? You look like someone spit in your drink." Kol remarked, leaning back in his chair.

Klaus shot him a warning glance.

"I don't recall sending you an invitation to this dinner, little brother," Klaus replied coldly, his eyes darkening.

Kol gave a laugh. "If that's the case, why was there a third place setting?"

You could almost feel the way Klaus's blood was boiling, his anger threatening to burst out of him at any moment. But he took a deep breath, glancing at you before answering.

"Because, you compelled the staff to lay it out for you," Klaus said between gritted teeth.

“Details,” Kol replied with a shrug, his gaze flicking back to you. “But really, Nik, aren’t you glad I came? It would be such a shame to leave her here all alone with you. She deserves a bit of excitement.”

You looked from one brother to the other, sensing the growing tension in the room. You could almost feel Klaus's urge to throttle his younger brother, and Kol's gleeful anticipation.

Part of you wanted to laugh at their childish squabble, but the intensity in their eyes told you this wasn’t a game. Kol’s flirtation and Klaus’s brooding anger tugged at something primal within you, and you couldn't deny how much you liked it.

It was a strange dynamic, to say the least. You had a feeling they’d been fighting over women for centuries, and tonight, you were just the latest battle.

But who said you couldn't enjoy it a little bit?

"As much as I appreciate the compliment, Kol, I must say that your behavior is somewhat inappropriate. I'm here on a date with Klaus," you said, smiling sweetly.

Kol smirked, leaning forward as if your words were an invitation rather than a reprimand. “A date with Nik? How quaint. Did he ever tell you how his dates usually end up? With their throat ripped out. Or at the bottom of the ocean. Sometimes both, depending on his mood."

"You're a fine one to talk," Klaus growled, gripping the edge of the table. "We both know you’re the last person who should be commenting on relationships. You’ve left more broken hearts and bodies in your wake than I care to count.”

Kol laughed, the sound light and cutting. “And you haven’t? Please. Should we bring up poor Aurora or Camille? Or are we skipping over that delightful tragedy tonight?”

The mention of her name sent a flicker of pain across Klaus’s face, quickly replaced by simmering anger. “Say another word, and I’ll tear that smug grin off your face.”

Kol leaned forward, his voice dropping into a taunting whisper. “Go ahead, Nik. Show her exactly how much of a monster you really are.”

You cleared your throat, cutting through the escalating tension. Both brothers froze, their gazes snapping to you, as though suddenly remembering you were still there.

“Boys,” you said, your voice calm but laced with amusement, “as much as I’m enjoying this little exchange, it seems a bit counterproductive, don’t you think? After all, you both claim to be interested in me, yet here you are, bickering like children over a toy."

Kol smirked. "Are you suggesting we share?"

Klaus let out a growl, and you held up a hand, cutting him off.

"Now, I can leave, or we can try and have a civilized conversation. But I suggest we stop acting like fools and start behaving like the centuries-old vampires that we are," you said, your words were firm, but the hint of a smile on your lips betrayed the playful tone behind them.

There was a pause as the two brothers stared at you, considering your words.

"What sort of civilized conversation did you have in mind, love?" Klaus asked, his tone dripping with innuendo.

"We are all adults here, let's speak plainly about what we want," you replied, shifting in your seat as you met their piercing gazes.

Kol smirked, his eyes lingering on your breasts a little too long. "I'd like to take that pretty dress off you with my teeth and make you scream so loud the neighbors can hear it."

You chuckled and took a sip of your wine, feeling the flush spread across your cheeks. "That's one idea. Any others?"

Klaus's voice was a low growl, the threat of violence hanging in the air. "I'd like to show you how a real man would please you, make you forget all about this foolish boy at the other end of the table,"

You raised an eyebrow, the corners of your mouth turning up. "A real man. Hmmm. Are you saying I should go ask Elijah to keep me company?"

Klaus and Kol both shot you an offended look.

"Elijah?!" They said in unison, nothing brought them together faster than a chance to insult their elder brother.

You chuckled, reveling in their outrage.

"What?" You smiled coyly. "He's always so well-mannered…"

Klaus let out a frustrated noise. "Now you are just being cruel."

You couldn't help but laugh. The entire situation was ridiculous, and yet somehow it was working.

"I suppose you both have your merits," you said, trailing your fingers along the table. "But I don't see why I should choose between you two… when we could all have a little fun together,"

The brothers glanced at each other, the tension rising between them. They had gleefully walked right into your trap.

Kol recovered first, a cocky grin spreading across his face. "Oh, so that's what you want? You are such a greedy little thing."

"Perhaps," you mused, tilting your head to the side. "But don't tell me the thought doesn't excite you."

You could see the flash of heat in their eyes, the way their gazes trailed over you hungrily.

Kol smirked, a challenging glint in his eyes. "I'm game if Nik is."

Klaus was quiet, observing the two of you with calculating eyes. Trying to figure out how he could still manage to come out on top.

You could practically hear the gears turning in his mind, searching for some angle.

You weren't about to let him ruin the moment, so you rose from your seat, letting your hair fall loosely over your back. Their gazes followed you as you turned towards the door, looking back at them over your shoulder.

"Well, gentlemen, I'll be waiting upstairs. See who can make it to me first," you said with a smirk, before walking out of the room.

The moment the door closed behind you, you could hear a scuffle, furniture being overturned, as the two of them fought for the upper hand.

You laughed to yourself, heading up the stairs, your steps quick and light. This was going to be fun.

When you entered Klaus' room, the window was open, the cool night air flowing through the curtains. The soft light from the candles cast a warm glow over the bed.

You ran a finger over the sheets, feeling the smooth silk against your skin. A wicked smile tugged at your lips, as you slipped off your heels, leaving them by the foot of the bed.

This was a game, and the rules were simple. Make them work for it.

A crash, followed by Kol’s laughter, echoed through the hall. You smiled to yourself, enjoying the chaos you’d left behind.

The door burst open, slamming against the wall. You spun around, feigning surprise, as Klaus stalked into the room. His shirt was torn, blood smeared across his chest, and his eyes burned with feral intensity.

“I see you won the race,” you said, your voice teasing as your eyes roamed over him.

Klaus closed the distance between you in a heartbeat, his hands gripping your waist, pulling you close. He scooped you up and tossed you over his shoulder like a caveman, before turning and carrying you out of the room.

Kol was yelling something from the end of the hall, but you couldn't make out his words. Klaus didn't even look at him, his gaze fixed on his destination.

"Where are we going?" You asked with a laugh as he carried you down the hallway.

"Somewhere Kol can't bother us," he replied, his tone dark.

You giggled as he began to vamp speed, the walls and furniture blurring around you. He carried you up several flights of stairs, past rooms filled with art and books, until he reached a spare bedroom on the uppermost floor.

It was a simple room, the bed neatly made, with a small table and chairs set by the window. It was clear that no one had been in here for quite some time.

You could hear Kol's muffled curses, as he tried to track you down.

"Don't worry, love, I've locked the doors. He'll have to find his own entertainment tonight," Klaus said, his voice rough with desire.

He dropped you onto the bed, climbing on top of you, his eyes blazing. He captured your lips in a hungry kiss, his hands on your waist, pulling your body flush against his own.

His mouth moved down your neck, biting and sucking at your skin, as his hands moved lower, pulling the hem of your dress up.

His touch was possessive, claiming, and you loved it.

A loud crack and a shout rang through the house, as the lock on the door snapped, Kol finally managed to find you.

"Really, Nik, I thought we agreed on sharing," Kol huffed, standing in the doorway, arms crossed, his clothing torn and dirty from the fight.

Klaus didn't bother looking up, his lips trailing lower, finding the exposed skin above your breast.

"We never agreed to anything. The rules are what I say they are," Klaus replied, his voice low and dangerous.

"Both of you stop," you sighed, pushing Klaus back.

He pulled away reluctantly, his eyes burning with desire, but he knew better than to argue. You reached out for Kol, gesturing him to join you on the bed.

"You boys want me? Prove it," you purred, a smile tugging at your lips.

Klaus and Kol looked at each other, both realizing at the same time that they had the same idea.

In a blur of movement, they were on you, their hands tearing at your clothes. Klaus gripped the fabric of your dress, ripping it clean off, the shreds falling to the floor.

"That was expensive," you protested, a playful pout on your lips.

"I'll buy you a new one," he replied, his lips capturing yours, his hands gripping your waist, pulling you up into a sitting position. “So many new ones,”

Kol knelt behind you, his fingers tracing along the curve of your neck, the soft skin of your back. He tugged on the clasp of your bra, unhooking it, and letting the fabric fall away.

Klaus' eyes darkened as he got a full view of your bare chest, the soft, round globes of flesh, the rosy peaks begging to be touched. He lowered his mouth, sucking one nipple into his mouth, his tongue swirling around the hard bud.

You moaned, your hands tangling in his curls, pressing his face closer. His mouth was hot and wet, sending jolts of pleasure through your body.

Kol's hands moved to your hips, pulling you back against him. Klaus let out an irritated growl as his lips were pulled from your skin.

"Don't get greedy, brother," Kol said, his tone teasing. "I think you owe me a chance at this beautiful girl."

Klaus shot him an annoyed look, his hands sliding up your thighs, his fingers teasing over the lace of your panties. You could feel the tension between them, the raw desire threatening to spill over into violence at any moment. Being caught between them felt like being stuck in the middle of a thunderstorm, and you relished the danger of it.

It was overwhelming, the feel of their mouths on you, the way they fought for control. You weren't sure who to give in to first, their hands and mouths bringing you to new heights of pleasure.

Klaus slid your panties off, tossing them to the side before grabbing your hips and pulling you towards him, spreading your legs apart. His lips trailed down your stomach, pausing at the sensitive spot just above your sex.

His eyes met yours as he lowered his head, running his tongue slowly along your slit, before finding your clit. You gasped, your hands tangling in his hair, holding him close. The sensation of his mouth on you was electric, and you could feel your climax building.

Kol watched with hungry eyes, his hand stroking himself through his pants. He could see how close you were, the way your hips moved up to meet Klaus's face.

Kol placed his hand under your chin, tilting your head back towards his. He captured your lips in a searing kiss, his tongue exploring your mouth, showing you how he would do it if he was the one between your thighs.

Klaus looked up at the two of you, feeling a surge of jealousy. He redoubled his efforts, his tongue moving faster, drawing out your pleasure. He wanted you to fall apart on his lips, to know that it was him who made you scream.

Your breath came in short gasps, your body trembling as your orgasm built. You could feel the heat coiling in your belly, the delicious tension growing stronger with every flick of Klaus's tongue.

"So sensitive," Kol whispered, his breath hot against your ear. "I enjoy the way you respond to us. I wonder how many times we can make you come tonight."

He gave your nipple a pinch, making you gasp, his eyes dark with lust, watching as you began to lose control. His hand gripped your hair, holding your mouth against his, as you moaned into his kiss.

Your finger tugged on Klaus' hair, your thighs tightening around his head. He held you down as you came undone, your back arching, your cries muffled against Kol's lips.

He didn't stop, his tongue moving relentlessly as you writhed under him, the pleasure almost too much to bear. Your hips jerked up, trying to get away, but he pinned you down, forcing you to ride it out.

Kol pulled back from the kiss, a satisfied smirk on his lips. His gaze shifted downwards, taking in the sight of his brother buried between your thighs, your body shaking with pleasure.

"Nik, don't be selfish. Let me have a taste," Kol said, his tone teasing.

Klaus finally pulled back, his mouth and chin glistening with your wetness. He shot Kol a quick look of annoyance, before moving to gently kiss along your inner thigh.

You smiled, letting out a happy sigh as you sat up, pulling away from them, letting them admire your naked form. They looked at you with hunger in their eyes, their gazes trailing over your curves.

"You are both far too dressed for this," you said, teasing them.

Klaus and Kol exchanged a glance, before flashing to undress in the blink of an eye. You looked at their bare chests, the smooth muscles and ridges of their abs. They were so different from each other, and yet the same in so many ways.

They stood there, with the same look in their eyes, a wild hunger, a feral need to claim and possess. It made your heart race, knowing that they both wanted you so desperately.

You giggled, kneeling on the bed and reveling in their desire. "Much better."

"Come here," Klaus said, his voice low and commanding.

You shook your head, smiling coyly. "No. I want you both to come to me."

Klaus's eyes flashed, his gaze darkening with lust. He reached out to grab you, but you slipped away, moving back onto the bed.

Kol let out a low chuckle, watching his brother's frustration. "She's a tease, isn't she? But worth the chase."

Your eyes flashed with mischief as you beckoned them closer, watching as they both started to crawl onto the bed.

The moment their knees touched the mattress you quickly got to your feet and bolted, running across the room. You heard them cursing behind you as they gave chase, more crashing sounds of furniture and objects being knocked over.

A pair of hands grabbed you by the waist, lifting you off your feet. You let out a squeal of surprise and delight as Kol turned you around and pressed you into the wall, his body pinning yours.

He grinned, his face inches from yours, his hand moving up to cup your breast. You could feel his cock pressing against your thigh, and you wanted nothing more than to feel him inside you.

"I've got you now," he whispered, his voice rough with desire.

You bit your lip, letting out a soft moan as he rolled his hips, grinding against you.

You reached down, wrapping your fingers around Kol's length, feeling him grow even harder in your hand. He let out a groan, his hips bucking against your touch.

"Greedy little thing," he muttered, his eyes fluttering closed.

You smirked, stroking him slowly, enjoying the way he shuddered against you.

"You like this," you teased, echoing his earlier words.

Kol let out a growl, his hand gripping your thighs, wrapping them around his waist. He pinned you against the wall with his hips, his cock brushing against your entrance. You moaned, he was so close to where you wanted him, his heat making your body ache with need.

"Please," you breathed, arching your back, desperate for more.

He looked down at you, his dark eyes filled with a wicked hunger as he eased his cock inside you. You let out a gasp, feeling him stretch you open, filling you completely.

Kol began to move, his hips rocking slowly, savoring the feel of your tight warmth around him. He leaned in, capturing your lips in a heated kiss.

He pulled you away from the wall as you clung to him, your legs wrapped around his waist as he carried you back to the bedroom, lifting you up and down as he went. He felt amazing inside you, his cock hitting all the right spots, making you moan and whimper into his kiss.

The moment you were returned to the bedroom you felt Klaus behind you, his warm hands trailing down your spine, his hard length pressing against your backside. He leaned in, nipping at your earlobe, his breath hot on your neck.

It was intoxicating, being caught between them, their bodies pressed against yours. The way they touched you, the way they moved together, it was enough to drive you mad.

You pulled away from Kol's lips, gasping for air. "Fuck... I need..."

Klaus chuckled, his hand slowly moving down your spine. "What do you need, love? Tell us."

His fingers slid between your ass cheeks, finding the tight ring of muscle. You moaned, arching your back, feeling the tip of his finger pressing against you.

Klaus smirked, his eyes meeting Kol's over your shoulder. "I think she wants this."

Kol let out a low laugh, the rhythm of his hips slow and steady, not quite letting you reach the edge. "That can be arranged."

You gasped, feeling Klaus' finger push inside, the sensation sending sparks of pleasure through your body. You hadn't been expecting it, but it felt good, the way he worked you open.

Klaus' finger slid deeper, his other hand grabbing your hair, pulling your head back. "You like that, don't you?"

You nodded, unable to form words, your mind overwhelmed by the pleasure.

Klaus chuckled, his lips brushing against your neck. "You are such a naughty girl. I believe you have done this before, haven't you?"

"Yes," you breathed, your hips moving against them, desperate for more.

Kol groaned, his cock twitching inside you. "Fuck... I didn't think you could be any more perfect, but here you are."

"Mmm," Klaus hummed in agreement, his fingers moving in and out of you, his lips trailing along your jaw. "She's exquisite."

You let out a gasp as you felt the blunt tip of his cock press against your ass. He was gentle, easing his way inside, taking his time to make sure you were ready.

Kol's eyes were dark with lust, his lips parted as he watched Klaus take you. He held you tighter, his hands gripping your hips, as he increased his pace.

You moaned, feeling yourself stretched around their cocks, the pressure building inside you. It was too much, too intense, and yet you never wanted it to stop.

You dug your nails into Kol's shoulders, your breath coming in short gasps as they began to move in sync, holding you between them. They set a punishing pace, their movements rough and animalistic. Your moans became louder, echoing off the walls, as they used your body for their own pleasure.

Your head fell back against Klaus' shoulder, your eyes closing as you gave yourself over to them completely. You could feel the heat coiling in your belly, your orgasm building with every thrust.

"Don't stop," you pleaded, your voice barely above a whisper.

Klaus chuckled, his lips trailing along your neck, his hands roaming over your body. "Never."

They both began to kiss along your neck, their tongues running along your veins, your blood pumping fast and steady beneath your skin. You knew what they wanted, it was what all vampires wanted, and you wanted to give it to them.

"Drink from me," you breathed, your voice thick with desire. "Please."

They didn't need to be asked twice, their fangs sinking into your flesh. The sensation sent a jolt of pleasure through your body, the pain mixing with the overwhelming pleasure of being filled by them both.

It was too much, the connection between you growing stronger with each drop of your blood that they took. Your mind was flooded with their desire, their need for you. You could feel their hunger, their lust, and it was intoxicating, blissful, mind blowing.

The world fell away as you reached your peak, your body shuddering as your orgasm ripped through you. You moaned, burying your face in Kol’s chest, the sound only making them fuck you harder.

Your body tensed, your legs shaking, as you rode out your high. You felt Kol come first, his cock twitching inside you, his release filling you with warmth.

Klaus wasn't far behind, his fangs still buried in your neck as he spilled inside you, his hips jerking against your behind.

Your head was spinning, your body limp in their embrace. Klaus pulled his fangs from your neck, his tongue lapping up the last few drops of your blood.

“My sweet girl,” he whispered, pressing soft kisses along your jaw. “So good for us.”

Klaus carefully eased out of you, letting Kol carry your trembling form over to the bed. He laid you down gently, his touch tender as he brushed the hair from your face.

Your body felt heavy, your limbs like lead, as you tried to catch your breath. It was an effort just to keep your eyes open, your eyelids fluttering closed.

Kol chuckled softly, leaning in to kiss your forehead. “You’re incredible, darling. Utterly exquisite.”

“Damn, I love when you two cooperate,” you said with a giggle, your voice still breathless but laced with amusement.

Kol laughed, settling beside you, his arm draped over your waist. “We aim to please,” he replied, the grin in his voice unmistakable.

Klaus joined you on the bed, pulling the blanket up to cover your naked form. He wrapped an arm around you, his other hand brushing against your hair in slow, soothing strokes.

“Do you often have two men in your bed?” Klaus asked, his tone light but teasing, a small smile playing on his lips.

You smiled, your eyes still closed. “Sometimes,” you replied, the hint of mischief in your voice unmistakable. “But they usually aren’t as resilient as you two. Mortals can be so fragile.”

Kol laughed, shaking his head. “Then it seems we’ve ruined you for anyone else.”

You chuckled, the sound soft and satisfied. “Maybe so.”

Klaus chuckled softly, his lips brushing against your temple. “Rest now, love. You’ll need your strength for later.”

Your eyes fluttered open at that, a grin tugging at your lips. “Are you hoping for round two? Because I need very little rest.”

Kol raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening. “Oh, do you now?”

They both chuckled, exchanging a glance that made your heart race, the heat between you all still simmering. Before you could react, they pounced, their bodies pressing against yours as you let out a delighted squeal.

As their hands roamed over your skin, you felt a warmth deeper than just the physical. The possessiveness in Klaus’s gaze and the playful hunger in Kol’s touch made it clear: you weren’t just a passing fancy to them. You were theirs, and they were yours.

[thelikesoffinn]

„Astarion ending as the Vampire Ascendant is the correct ending for him, because it is what he wants.”

That is a claim I’ve been seeing pop up more and more often these days. And I think it’s both a very bold and a very odd claim to make.

But first things first: Hello, I’m a licensed social worker! So far, I’ve worked with children, refugees and youths with behavioural issues stemming from bullying and or abuse.

Please be aware that I will be mentioning different kinds of abuse, coping mechanisms, and victim/abuser relationships. If any of this is difficult for you, don’t force yourself through it. My jabbering about a traumatised vampire is not worth your wellbeing, not ever.

I will, however try to stick to Astarion and not use other examples. If, in any case, I do use a non-Astarion example, I’ll add a warning beforehand so that you can skip the part. And I’ll make it clear what will be discussed in the next bit, so that you have a chance to skip it entirely.

This is an effort to make this as accessible as possible for everyone that wants to indulge on a mad woman’s rambling – and I know there’s a few people that like this sort of stuff!

And, uh, there's obviously spoilers for all three acts. Serious spoilers, even.

Before I can get into the whole ‘why Astarion didn’t really want to ascend,’ we need to understand him a little more. And to understand this pretty boy’s brain, we first need to understand the gist of what we’re talking about when we throw around the word ‘abuse.’

“Abuse” is when someone is treated with cruelty, violence, or neglect – often to bad effect – on a regular basis. Repetitively. Check’s out for Astarion, I’d say, but we all knew that already. I mean, if one thing was obvious, it was this.

1. Astarions Abuse

Next we need to look at what kind of abuse Astarion faced over his long years of torment, seeing as different types of abuse will have different effects on the victim.

Not that that is anything we have to worry about with him – Astarion won the abuse lottery, to put it bluntly. In a horrible game of fate, he got everything. He himself indirectly mentions all the types of abuse he faced, albeit never using the correct terms.

The first we properly notice – fitting, seeing as it is often the most obvious form of abuse – is the physical abuse. Astarions scars are probably the biggest tell Larian could shove down our throats, only underlined by Astarion’s tale about the night itself. About how Cazador ‘misspelled something’ every time he flinched or screamed and had to do ‘many corrections. On top of this, Cazador locked Astarion up for months on end and tortured him – or had him tortured – on a regular basis both as a rite and as a punishment.

Next up, we have the fact that Astarion was forced to basically prostitute himself repeatedly. This is what we call sexual exploitation.

“I spent two hundred years using my body to lure pretty things back for my Master.” – Act 2

Two hundred years is a long time, filled with great many people. Now, we don’t know how many of those people actually tapped into the sexual exploitation and how many he could just lure back with other means, but the fact that it happened a lot is undeniable.

Next we have a form of abuse that we often disregard in adults: Neglect. It sounds odd, I know, saying that a fully grown adult was neglected. They can care for themselves, can they not?

Well. Yes and no.

Adult neglect is proceeded by the condition that one adult has to lean on another adult to fulfil their needs for whatever reason. This could be anything, from disability to income-based issues.  

Seeing as Astarion had absolutely nothing, while Cazador had everything, we can assume this was the case. Cazador had the house, the money, the power. Astarion owns but one pair of clothes, assumedly, that he has fixes over and over again. Fair to say, that’s pretty neglectful. (And it’s one more reason to shower the guy in pretty armour and camp clothes. Go ham, people.)

Last we have the form of abuse we actually get to witness later in the game – emotional abuse.

Once again, it’s undeniable that this happened. Especially since we’re all seeing it in the flesh upon meeting Cazador in his crypt.

“Have you no respect for yourself?”

“I strove for perfection in all things. Even those as imperfect as you.”

“A pity you amounted to so little, despite my efforts.”

“A pathetic little boy who never amounted to anything.”

All Act 3, Crypt

Here we have just a few examples of things Cazador throws in his face. It’s like reading a textbook on emotional abuse, this one (and it’s definitely a reason to throw hands).

Blaming the victim, keeping their sense of self and their self-worth as tiny as possible to make them cower and flee. A true classic.

This pretty much shows that Astarion suffered all forms of abuse we commonly see and it is implied – once again by Astarion himself – that at least a few of those instances were ritualistic.

Now, what does that mean exactly? Well, I fear I need to use a real example here, so please skip the next paragraph.

Ritualistic doesn’t refer to a proper ritual – it can, but that’s mostly a thing for those in a cult. So, we’re not necessarily talking about a ‘Vampire Ascendent Ritual’. A husband, beating his wife every evening after his third bottle of beer is also called ritual abuse. It happens regularly. It is part of a routine. Both parties know what will happen.

I can’t find the exact quote, so I’m working of my memory here, but at one point he said that when Cazador invited him to eat and he said yes, he would be served a putrid rat. If he said no, he’d be beaten.

The way it was phrased made it clear that it happened more than once and that Astarion clearly knew what would happen. So, this can be classified as ritualistic abuse.

2. A Note on Conditioning and Compliance

By default, abuse victims are conditioned to behave a certain way or in a certain fashion. This is a natural response to avoid further abuse.

In Astarion, the thing we see most often is his inherent need to please. Not literally, he doesn’t mind being an arsehole. But he initially feels the need to follow Tav’s orders, even if they go against his own wishes.

This can be clearly seen in the conversation with Araj Oblodra. Astarion very clearly doesn’t want to bite her. He doesn’t. But he will do so, if Tav tells him to. This behaviour is not conscious – he doesn’t know why he does it, he just does – and it is to be expected. This is how he kept himself save for two centuries, so of course he will fall back into his usual pattern when the pressure is high.

This goes hand in hand with the fact that most abuse victims don’t fight. Maybe initially, but not after long term abuse. Especially not after two fucking centuries.

This is true in Astarion – offered by his ‘siblings’ during act 3 and unhappily acquiesced by the man himself. Astarion stopped fighting and, once again implied, cowered, and did as he was told in order to survive.

3. The Astarion we know and love

Obviously, all that abuse does have an impact on our vampire boyfriend. He shows various common signs of abuse and just like with the forms of abuse, Astarion raked every coping mechanism he could find. (Not really, but it feels like it.) It’s also important to note that nearly all of the following things happen inwardly. Astarion is not one of the victims, that tries to rationalise and minimise the actions of his abuser. Quite the opposite, actually.

I’ll note from the beginning, that rationalisation will not be covered in this bit, as most examples will be important later on. But he definitely does it.

One of his biggest skills is to hide every ounce of fear or hurt behind sarcasm and snarky theatrics. He doesn’t seem to hide his anger much, though, so that’s something! Our boy is cool with anger, not so much with being afraid.

“Ahahaha, now that you mention it….I might have done…that.” – Act 3, regarding the Gur children

“The thing that will decide my fate forever more? Yeees, it’s been on my miiiind. Why?” – Act 2, regarding the Ritual

And there’s many more instances that prove this. Honestly, half his dialogue is sarcasm, so it would really be too long to get into and we all know what I mean, right? We have alltalked to the guy before. It’s obvious that he’s sarcastic to a fault.

This goes hand in hand with his penchant for defensiveness. I would personally state that he’s simply not really good with guilt. When talking about fear, he usually just opts for sarcasm or avoids the topic completely, but guilt especially has his defences going up. This is also when he’s most likely to shove all the blame off to Cazador.

“Don’t look at me like that. Cazadors orders.” – Act 3, Crypt

“I just did what I had to!” – Act 3, Crypt

And don’t get me wrong, he does that anyway. And with good reason. Astarion didn’t have a choice for the most part, but he’s still easy to shove things off.

This kind of connects to his penchant for denial.

Astarion doesn’t really like to talk about most things. He firmly believes he is an ‘action’ sort of person that just does instead of plans, which invertedly just means he’s great at pushing the thinking stuff away. He also likes to get rid of stuff, so that he doesn’t need to face it ever again.

“I never want to see these little scraps of misery again. The world doesn’t need to know my shame.” – Act 3, about the children

And yes, this partly rings true. He’s probably ashamed and doesn’t want anyone to know what he’s done. But it’s also very clear that he himself simply doesn’t want to face his own actions, something that is just  underlined by his extreme willingness to red rid of the other spawn.

As mentioned by Astarion himself, he’s big on manipulation. I mean, I don’t think there is much explaining necessary. The guy is willing to do a whole lot in order to get what he desires – which mostly revolves around safety and survival, to be honest – and he’s not really shy about it either. And that’s despite the fact that he doesn’t really like intimacy – especially in form of sex.

It’s not a secret that Astarion is not big on sex and anything surrounding it. This goes far enough for people to consider him either ace or ace coded.

A claim that, personally, I’m not super in line with.

Now, it’s not entirely wrong and if this is your head cannon I’m surely not going to stand in your way – but on a larger spectrum, I think he’s more traumatised than ace. And while those go hand in hand sometimes, it’s a bit difficult for the ace community if you attach traumatised characters to them because it can fuel a whole lot of stigma that is honestly neither needed nor wanted. But I digress!

If it comes to his own behaviour, he’s great at minimising his mistakes. Honestly, he’s a master of minimisation. A very obvious and famous example would be:

“’Killed’ feels like a…strong word. Not many corpses have your vigour.” – Act 1, after killing Tav

Astarion. You literally sucked poor Tav dry and left them flopping around, cold, and dead. Killed is exactly the right word and we all know it.

“Quite the deviation from my usual routine. Capture, not lure. I didn’t bring them in with sweet rolls or anything.” – Act 3, Gur Children

This is another attempt at minimising what he did, if a bit less obvious because at this point there isn’t much he can say. But at least he didn’t sexualise the gur children, right? They’re still spawn but whoo, at least that didn’t happen.  

The next point would be dissociation, which is extremely common in abuse victims – of all forms of abuse.

Astarion himself mentioned certain moments that could be classified as dissociation over course of the story, which is probably the coping mechanism I personally expected the most.

The pale elf has a penchant for violence, but he’s not entirely shameless or abhorrently vile, which gets clearer the more the story progresses. So, two hundred years of forced prostitution, torture and doing whatever other horrible things? Yeah, I’d be more surprised if he didn’t dissociate.

Examples of that would be:

“A moment of disgust to push myself through and then I could’ve carried on, just like before.” – Act 2, after Araj

“I felt nothing the moment I handed them over.” – Act 3, Gur Children

“Did you enjoy it? It felt like you weren’t fully there.” – Act 1, Tav after Sex

The latter is generally more of an assumption than actual prove, but with context it does make sense.

The last common sign of abuse we find in our boyfriend would be his low self-worth. It’s a consistent trait that stays over the course of all three acts, noticeable in many different conversations.

We can see it in his reaction to wanting to break up before finishing his story. We can see it in his genuine surprise when Tav picks him over any of the other characters. We see it in his insecurity whenever Tav asks to sleep with another character. He’s fine with it, but he still worries their decision to sleep with someone else is based on something he did.

It eases up ever so slightly after Cazador is dead, but even then he’s still struggling which is once again perfectly illustrated if you try to break up with him.

“Oh shit. I- Did I do something wrong?”

That is the first thing he asks and I think it speaks for itself. He genuinely doesn’t believe he has much to offer and for Astarion, it’s likely that Astarion will always be the problem.

4. "Oh, I tried them all none of them answered.”

Another big thing that’s important to note, is that Astarion was never saved. No one came to save him from Cazador. There was no darling boy on a white steed riding into that castle to rescue him and princess carry him away. Not even the gods answered his desperate calls.

So, he never received any kindness or luck. To him, the world seems as cruel and horrid as before because he didn’t have the chance to experience goodness in two centuries.

But worse than that, he didn’t even get to save himself. Astarion didn’t stand up to Cazador, he didn’t run out of his own might.

He was beaten to near death and ‘saved’ by Cazador, who would become his abuser.

He tried to save someone and, in turn, was locked up and starved for an entire year.

He was abducted by mind flayers, i.e., saved from Cazador, only to end up tadpoled and on the cusp of getting a fancy, squiddy beard.

Anything that’s good, any kindness, any selfless action…it all came with a ginormous price tag.

5. Over the Course of the Story

Astarions behaviour changes a whole lot over the course of three acts – which is important once we talk about his quests climax – so let’s review what we’re working with!

Act 1 Astarion is guarded as fuck. The man has walls around him that are so high, even the gods can touch them.

A lot of his behaviour in act 1 revolves around staying save and staying liked. He lies, manipulates, and flutters his lashes in order to get what he wants and needs. Instead of asking, like Wyll, Karlach and Gale do, Astarion uses all he has to offer to get by. He is still very much in survival mode and tries to weasel his way through an unfamiliar situation with familiar methods.

On top of that, and most notably, he’s absolutely not fond of kindness or selflessness.

#I saved a child and now my boyfriend is mad

Here, we are most likely to gain disapproval for doing the decent thing – unless you sent him outside for a minute whenever you’re being a good person.

And I’d assume that this is because of two things.

First: The very traditional ‘Why not me?’

As I mentioned before, Astarion wasn’t saved. He hasn’t experienced kindness in a very long time so seeing that the world is literally filled with kind people is hurtful. Why didn’t anyone save him? Why was he left to his own devices for so long? Why should he care about others when it’s so clear that no one ever cared about him? No, dead to all of them. If he didn’t get it, neither will they.

“And what am I owed? What about the injustices I suffered? Am I not entitled to anything?” – Act 3, Crypt

“I was in the prime of my life when I was turned. Everything was taken from me too.” – Act 3, Crypt

And secondly is the fact that, as I mentioned, goodness always has a price. And it’s one most people won’t be willing to pay. That’s how his life has been, so why would theirs be different?

This is precisely why Astarion may disapprove of kind actions, but he mostly neither approves nor disapproves if Tav asks for payment. That’s just how the world works.

Once you venture out into act 2, after getting to know him a whole lot more, he starts to mellow a bit – if only towards Tav.

“He’s afraid, so afraid, of everyone but you, who she should fear the most.” – Sceleritas about Astarion

His approval is a lot easier to gain – or at least keep! – and he tends to approve of some more proper actions. He doesn’t throw a fit if you promise to find Mol, he approves of Tav being kind to His Majesty, of saving Aylin and he even approves of Durge apologising to Isobel after threatening to rip her to pieces.

He's slowly starting to open up, allowing Tav to see some parts of him he previously kept hidden. He accepts their offer to help, if hesitantly and, by god, the man starts experimenting with boundaries.

The social worker in me is shedding tears at this. It’s my favourite thing to see in my clients and it’s no different here. Yay to saying no!

Of course, it’s still a bit hit or miss. If Tav urges him to bite Araj, for example, he will only to later notice that he didn’t fucking have to. He recognises this on his own and he calls Tav out on it. Just like he calls them out on not helping him with his Orthon quest.

Good job, chap. Good fucking job.

And the growth-train won’t stop going even as we reach act 3.

In act 3, there’s not many things he disapproves as of right now – those he does, mostly have to do with how Tav treats him and not with anyone else. In fact, he’s more likely to approve good behaviour now, like giving Yenna food or money.

And yes, we need to consider that this could simply be because he gets used to Tav’s behaviour and just learns to roll with it. But it’s also highly likely that he notices that there’s truly good people around. At least one person. And that person is not only good, no, they’re in the process of helping him break free once and for all.

They’re helping him save himself.

By act 3, he has learned that he can absolutely say his piece where Tav is concerned and he’s more likely to disagree with them on certain things. It’s seen during a lot of small dialogue that he’s no longer terribly afraid to be honest with them, willing to listen and talk and he’ll ask for help if he needs it.

“I can do this. But I need your help.” – Act 3, Crypt

Something that can be viewed both positively and negatively is that he’s definitely loyal to a fault. He will stick by Tav’s side, no matter what.

“I really hoped we could avoid being pawns for a dark god, but here we are, I suppose. I’m with you, my dear, wherever this might lead.” – Act 3, After Jaheira confronts durge

As I said, this can be both positive and negative. On one count, it’s a recipe for disaster, seeing as he could be waltzing into a really bad situation for Tav alone.

But on the other side…this is a man who only cared about himself because that is the only person he could afford to care about. He needed to survive. He now has enough room to breathe and the capacity to care for someone else and I’d be inclined to count that as a good thing.

6. The Crypt

All the progress he made in act 2 and 3 is nearly tossed into the wind as soon as the crew enters Cazadors castle.

It’s not an immediate thing, of course.

At first, Astarion tries to stay light and simple and he hides behind flippant tones and relaxed faces. The way he recounts this is almost comically disinterested and the façade is actually quite good.

It’s start’s cracking after we meet Godie, one of the people who tortured him on more than one account, but he mostly manages to remain as upbeat as one can honestly expect for the first half of the journey.

All that, however, is done for the very moment we meet Sebastian. His mask not only slips, no, it full on shatters and there’s none of his apparent lightness left.

Which, of course it does.

The man is suddenly faced with years and years and years of victims. Innocent, unlucky people he lured back to his master over two centuries. People he liked, people he pitied.

“It’s sickening, seeing them again.”

It’s basically a room filled with guilt, exclusively for Astarion. And, as we mentioned before…Astarion is not great with guilt.

The guilt, however, is not where it ends.

No, he’s also faced with reflections of his own past. The spawn pose as reminders of what he did, sure, but also as reminders of what he was.

Weak, desperate, hungry.

There’s an abundance of images of his worst moments, reflected back at him in the thousands. It’s probably like staring into a funhouse mirror, but instead of seeing yourself in a funky way he just sees everything he so desperately doesn’t want to be.

“It should be [who I am]! I don’t want to be like them. They’re pathetic, horrible…”

He’s forcefully made aware of how darn weak he can be, which claws at all the wounds he’s barely had time to close. Something, he of course won’t admit if asked.

“THEY DO NOT [remind me of myself]. That weakness in me is dead, IT’S DEAD. I have a higher purpose.”

The high pressure of the moment brings out all of his act 1 traits in but a few moments. You can pretty much watch how he starts to shut down mid conversation, one of his old walls snapping back into place to remove himself from the situation.

Thing is though, walls usually become a bit brittle after disuse. Especially when talking to a person you don’t usually want to wall out.

Or, in his case, when talking to Tav.

After meeting Sebastian, Astarion shows extreme reactions to Tav nudging any of his weak spots. His reaction varies on whatever choice you make, but it ranges from aggression to defensiveness, to denial and even to downright begging Tav.

“Don’t hate me. I just did what I had to. I swear I did what I had to.”

This probably the most shocking out of all of them, since that is not something we got to witness before. The begging is likely a mixture of intense fear of losing Tav, his low self-esteem and pre-Tav behaviour, since we can assume that Cazador made him beg more than once.

Another old coat he puts back on would also be the least surprising of them all.

Manipulation.

He falls right back into it, using Tav’s affection to get what he want if we trigger the right action.

“If they die and I ascend, I won't have to rely on the parasite to walk in the sun. I'll be free. Truly completely free. Isn't that what you want?”

This, to me, was probably the biggest tell that Astarion was back in survival mode. He’s panicking, for fucks sake, and who can blame the guy? He’s back. He’s about to face down his abuser.

Of course he’s fucking panicking.

Panic leads to an increased craving for safety and, in his case, power. This is why he clings to Tav, why he begs them to love him still. And this is why he jumps head first into the rationalisation pool.

“I will need to sacrifice them all if I want to perform the ritual. - [You can save them.] – What’s the point? They're as good as dead! I thought they were dead. If they are unleashed, they will cause incredible carnage. […] They must die. Better they serve a purpose.”

Another textbook example.

They must die anyway. They’re basically dead. No need to save them now. They’re dangerous, I’m doing the right thing by sacrificing them. I already thought they were dead, so it’s not changing anything for me. They’re a lost cause and I deserve  all this power. I deserve it, because I suffered and nothing will change if they die.

So, seeing as we already spoke about his usual behaviour in act 3 – behaviour he showed after we allowed him to breathe and be himself for a while – I think we can fairly easily conclude he’s not thinking straight.

Astarion is right back in survival mode, where all that matters is he himself. If it weren’t for the seven thousand spawns, he might have moved through this more gracefully, but seeing those tipped the scales and Astarion is absolutely losing it.

Remember that for the last section, per favore.

7. The Ascension

“Astarion wants to ascend and Tav manipulates him into doing what they want.”

That is basically the essence of what people often claim and I can’t help but shake my head at such a blatant disregard of everything he has become. This is completely ignoring the change and growth he has gone through over the course of their journey.

Astarion wants to be free. He wants to be safe. That does not mean he wants to ascend.

And the claim that Tav manipulates him into doing anything is even more baffling. We are all aware that Tav is not manipulative by nature, yes? That is entirely on you. You decide who your Tav is.

And then let’s remember: Astarion is panicked. He’s afraid and he’s not thinking straight. His abuser is on his knees before him and he still feels so weak. And there’s seven thousand spawns that need handling.

Astarion is very much not okay right now.

In fact, reading his thoughts just proves this theory.

“You can see the fear in his eyes but also the hunger. The thick smell of blood in the air and the promise of power being so close is intoxicating to him. All he can see is the power of the ritual and the freedom that power brings. The freedom to do anything. To be anything.”

Tav, however, has none of those problems. They can actually see beyond the current situation and they are fully aware what the consequences are. Astarion is not. As we previously established, Astarion is a doer. Not a thinker. He didn’t think this through, not at all.

The only thing Tav is doing – the persuasion roll – is reminding him of the very real consequences he is facing. The consequences he hasn’t thought about before.

"I know you think this will set you free, but it won't. This power will trap you, just like it trapped Cazador."

And that is the kindest thing Tav could do in this situation. They’re not bodily dragging him away from Cazador. They’re not even telling him to not do it. They’re just offering him the truth. He can do with that information whatever he desires.

“Astarion cries when he doesn’t ascend, that just shows that it was the wrong choice.”

A hare-brained point that I thankfully have only seen once so far.

That crying? That is healthy crying.

That is him, crumbling under the stress that suddenly dissipates. That is him mourning two hundred years of torment. That’s him letting out feelings he hasn’t been able to for centuries.

And, for the love of god, try to put yourself in his shoes.

Two hundred years of torment, ended in but a moment.

Astarion was abused and tortured for so long, afraid for so long only to see his tormentor die just like that.

Cazador died within a moment and all Astarion needed was a darn blade. Of course he fucking cries.

Seeing how pathetic a being the very core of your life’s misery actually is hurts. It hurts like hell because not only are you finally free – free! – no, you’re faced with the fact that this pile of nothing, the thing that’s bleeding out right in front of you…this was what tortured for so long.

This thing hurt you so much. That guy took everything from you, everything you once were, and broke it again and again and again over years.

You were so scared of this thing.

And yet he has the gall and the gumption to die just like that.

It was so easy.

And yet you suffered for so long.

8. Evil Playthrough?

An evil playthrough is really a different setting altogether.

All of this, as you can probably tell, is really only applicable on a good playthrough. Realistically speaking. I’m not sure how the game mechanics handle it.

On an evil path, Astarion never really gets to experience kindness and goodness. Evil Tav will just prove him right in his believe that the world is a vile and cold place, meaning that he realistically would be more inclined to actually want to ascend.

9. Final Conclusion

I think all of this should be enough to make it clear that no, ascended Astarion is not the best ending for the guy. In fact, it is probably the worst. Because it’s just him, running away. He’s running into a lonely and cold state of being, where cruelty and power lord over everything else and he’s running because he’s terrified of being hurt again. He’s running despite desperately wanting to stop running.

“I'll spend the rest of my life running watching the shadows, never feeling safe…no, this has to happen. Here and now.”

And, the worst part is: Nothing about Astarion is left after he ascends. Even his tone of speaking gradually changes, his theatrics fading. He’s slowly losing himself, until there’s nothing but an evil caricature left.

So, in the end, ascension will have proven him right.

That version of him is dead.

[melanchoire]

G!p Yujin x Rei x reader threesome: I have no plot , sorry😭 I’ll come back to this though if I think of one before you do.

this is going to have a lot of unnecessary plot because i got a little carried away but it’s anon’s fault for letting my brain do the work here ALSO this is long as fuck

cw: clit play, breeding, choking, creampie, degradation, dubcon??, hair pulling, hate fucking, humiliation, titsucking, unnie kink.

unlike other girl groups, you’re not the typical cheerful and charismatic unnie who is easily mistaken for the group’s maknae or looks younger than her age. you’re the ultimate pragmatist, the one who worries about schedules and makes sure everyone gets enough sleep no matter if the schedule is going to be busy or quiet this week. you’re the unnie who keeps the chaos in its place, not the one who contributes to it

during debut, the members thought you were just shy because you didn't know them personally due to how little you interacted and talked during your time as a trainee. but as time went by, they understood that in reality, you weren’t shy, but reserved

yujin was initially fascinated by you, seeing you as an older sister or a wise sorcerer, in her words. unlike gaeul who was the cute and small unnie who could play around with the other members, you were completely different from her! and well, puppy was by your side since you set foot inside the company

when you talked about your life before your debut, you talked about the usual things like school, work, and relationships, but yujin looked even more excited than leeseo when you talked about your private life. you had found it endearing, almost... naive. you thought she respected you. you thought maybe she admired you. but you were wrong!

the “good girl” role quickly dissipated. she was a walking, talking, puppy–dog–eyed menace. she spotted your temper early on, the crack in your carefully constructed composure. and she exploits it

yujin loves to push you to see how far she can go before you finally give up. the suggestive comments she makes to you do not go unnoticed: “i admire you so much, unnie. you’re so… calm. so mature. you’re really sexy.” “oh, unnie looks especially good today, doesn’t she? that skirt is… very flattering.”

but there are times when she forces you to respond to a scathing comment about your icy attitude: “unnie, you look very tense.” and you can only clench your jaw and resist the urge to click your tongue. “i’m perfectly fine, yujin. i’m just concentrating.” “what were you concentrating on? trying to remember how to smile?” she laughs, the sound like nails on a chalkboard.

and when you finally lose your cool, when your carefully controlled anger finally boils over, she doesn’t even listen to your scolding. you can stand in front of her looking at her with fire in your eyes while you spit venom and use your sharp tongue, but yujin is too busy imagining her running her hands through your hair while holding your head in place and fucking your mouth with her thick cock, making you swallow every last drop of hee seed. she wants to see those sharp, critical eyes soften, see them filled with an animal, pleading need

however, yujin’s annoying attitude isn’t just present in front of cameras or fanservice, but she’s like that in private too! she thanks the lord every day that you’re the oldest member of the group because it means you have more freedom when it comes to outfits and stylists can give you shorter and tighter clothes than the other members 😇 yujin never misses the chance to admire your body during album promotions, comebacks, concerts, lives, stages, performances, photoshoots, etc 😳 she’s always staring at you intently, biting her lip to hold back a smirk when during photoshoots you’re wearing a skirt that barely grazes your thighs or a shirt that is too tight and accentuates your chest ��� she practically drools!

you thought fans would be upset but they actually loved the ship of you two, saying that you’re the parents of the group: you, the serious and disciplinary mommy and yujin the fun and liberal daddy mommy 🥰 even when you tried to complain about this to gaeul because in your opinion you and she should be considered “mothers” since you two are the oldest in the group, she told you that since she was neither the leader nor the unnie of the group she didn’t give a shit about being seen as a parental figure

rei, on the other hand, was different from yujin. you two were the dynamic duo of the group, as you shared a love for cute and delicate things! rei loves to share matching things, especially when they are matching but in each one’s favorite color. cute friends who’re compared to the typical sweetie and grumpy duos like kuromi and melody, the nanas, etc

but she also loved to piss you off! in a more “friendly” and playful way, if you can call it that

outings were common between the two of you, and she has the most beautiful instagram feed, so usually she was the one taking your photos because she knew the good angles and poses. rei is your personal photographer because she knows how to take good photos, but sometimes she uses it as an opportunity to test your patience. maybe she’d make you pose while holding her phone in her hands, telling you to stay still and wait until she gives you the signal so you can move… but rei never takes the photo?? she enjoys watching the smile on your face fade away and bring with it that darkness your eyes have when you start to get in a bad mood, the ceramic cup losing its heat and the steaming coffee starting to turn into an iced coffee… she can’t help but grin when you give her a look as you set the cup down on the table with a thud

but rei makes up for it by taking decent photos of you when you leave the coffee shop and take a stroll around the city, admiring how the sunset light gives a special touch to the photos that look like girlfriend material… but the part you don’t know is that rei loves taking pictures of you because she looks at them while fingering herself late at night, imagining that it's you who’s touching her like that or it’s your pussy that she’s destroying

until one day during the album promotions everything gets out of control. of course, the girls know that you’re twice as serious during practice because you want everything to go well and polish up even the smallest mistake, but today in particular you were more unbearable and demanding than ever. the girls can tolerate being scolded when they make a mistake in a dance step or when it's more of a collective mistake, but you dared to raise your voice to leeseo and speak to her in the worst possible way and it was unacceptable 😤

obviously this started an argument with yujin because even if you’re a member of the group, the leader will not allow disrespect towards her members!! gaeul and wonyoung step in to prevent this from escalating, gaeul scolding you for acting this way and being a bad example and wonyoung trying to calm yujin down and make her see reason, while liz and leeseo witness this but liz hugs and comforts the maknae

yujin saying she wants to sort things out with you alone, gaeul and wonyoung exchange a look because they share a feeling that something will happen, but they let it go. so the members decide to leave the practice room for a while, except for rei who decides to stay because she’s the only one who can make yujin have her feet on the earth and become the silly puppy that she is again

you can’t focus on what yujin is saying because she looks so attractive when she’s mad… you try to pay attention to her words, but the frown, a look that could send you about six feet underground and a scolding full of arguments and reproaches that should make you feel ashamed for being an idiot before but you are more focused admiring how handsome yujin looks

“i need to get that shitty attitude out of you.” and suddenly yujin’s hands reaches her jeans and starts unbuttoning the button and lowering the zipper??

turning towards rei but she takes your face in her hands and begins to kiss you, swallowing your protests as yujin comes up behind you and grinds her erection against your ass…

then they manage to get you on your knees, yujin taking a handful of your hair to push your head against the ground while using the other hand to pull down your shorts along with your panties to the middle of your thighs, inserting her thick cock inside you with a single thrust of her hips

but as much as yujin is enjoying fucking you from behind with her hands on your shoulders so she can ram you in the animalistic and rough way that she loves so much, she notices that you’re enjoying this too much and won’t let it go, so she makes you match her position sitting on heels by taking one of your arms and pulling your body towards hers 👀

strong arms surrounding you as he hugs you from behind, pressing her chest against your back and fucking you in a way that only allowed you to babble and be mess of whines and breathy moans

“is this what you needed, unnie? are you always acting like a bitch because you weren’t getting a good fuck?” she slips an arm between the valley of your breasts, her hand closing around your throat with her fingers applying gentle pressure to your neck so you remember she is there, while her other arm goes down around your waist and holds a strong grip to press you against her body

but rei is the complete opposite. yujin can be all rough and dirty, but she is sweeter and softer, although part of it's so yujin doesn’t lose her mind so much and fuck you too stupid

“you shouldn’t be so cruel to unnie, yujin–ah. she can barely take it.” and rei slides her hand between your thighs, massaging your clit at a speed that drew a sigh from you due to how your bud was throbbing with need but at the same time it wasn’t something in your favor because you were beginning to feel more overstimulated and sensitive

and she lowers her face to your chest and takes a nipple in her mouth 🥴 just the sight of rei’s full lips and hot tongue could make you cum in less than a second

although rei has to kiss you to silence your moans because you were starting to get very noisy and they couldn’t risk being found by the staff or any company employee!! kissing you and muffling your noises with her lips and continues to play with your clit, while yujin is behind you fucking you like an animal and panting against your ear like a dog 😵

yujin cumming inside you at the same time you cum on her cock 💪🏻😋 although she doesn’t let you take a moment to catch your breath because she immediately immediately removes her cock from your pussy and rei stops holding you from the front, letting your limp body fall forward and rest exhausted on the ground, face down and hips slightly up just enough to see yujin’s seed slowly oozing out of your cunt and sliding down your thighs

and well, since that day, you know that when you get to the dorms you will always be assured of your dear leader fucking you to reward you for being an unnie who takes care of the whole group and relieve her own stress as a leader, and a bestie with whom you can scissor and kiss for hours and hours

[revelboo]

I hope you know I do a happy worm wiggle every time I see you post.

🤣 I’m glad you like my nonsense

Overdone Pt 4

Starscream x Reader

• “I mean it’s not impossible,” Wheeljack muses and Starscream vents as the scientist makes a note on his datapad. The other mech had lit up, literally upon hearing your story. His vocal indicators excitedly flickering as he loses himself to the mystery of your appearance and theoretical science. “But I doubt there are many Cybertronians capable of something like this.” But Starscream bets Wheeljack could. And you’re watching him to make him feel strangely uncomfortable. He’s never really been around humans much, never saw a reason to, but your uncannily Cybertronian expressions are unsettling. Why do you just keep staring at him?

• “Why transport a human here to me? What���s their angle?” Starscream growls, chin resting on a fist as the new bot scans you again. And you almost feel bad for him and his frustration about how and why you’re here. Wanting to know yourself, because you’re as clueless as he is even if he doesn’t believe you. Those red optics flick your way and you offer him an uncertain smile, but he immediately turns away, wings lifting. Making a show of ignoring you. Still assuming you’re a spy?

• “Maybe it was accidental,” Wheeljack says, shrugging as he checks the readout on his scanner and makes notes. Does the scientist actually believe that, he wonders. Or is Wheeljack in on this? Maybe he is the one that brought you here and you’re spying for him. But who’s he working for? Windblade? Or is this a new player bent on usurping him? A threat he didn’t foresee? Anxiety thrumming through him, his servos drum against his chin.

• Watching Starscream’s jaw work, you realize how on edge he is. He doesn’t trust anyone, does he? What must that be like to be on guard all the time, waiting for betrayals? Expecting them. To trust no one and still take a chance. Still save you when he didn’t have anything to gain from it. Warming, it only makes you more determined to somehow repay him, to prove you’re not out to get him.

• Glancing over, you’re still staring up at him to make his wings lift defensively. Why are you looking at him like that? Looking for weaknesses to exploit? Stiffening when you wander closer and reach out to lay a tiny, warm hand on his arm. Why are you touching him? Lip curling, he moves away from your touch and you just smile. “I know you don’t trust me, but I trust you,” you say and he clears his vents in surprise to make Wheeljack glance over. Doesn’t know what to make of you, but you’re right. He doesn’t trust you or your smile. At all.

Previous

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[nachocheezos21]

[ top 10 c00lgui tricks in forsaken !!1! ]

Tags and Warnings: [MAJOR CHARACTER DEATH!], [Angst], [Murder], [Parental Guilt], [Child Death], [Father-Son Relationship] // Word Count: 1,180 // [Originally uploaded to AO3; inspired by @dinofur’s comic!—go check ‘em out!! ^_^]

As thunder loomed above and specks of rain dropped over their heads, a distraught 007n7 had his eyes and mouth agape in horror as the poor father witnessed the horrific scene before him. “Sh-Shedletsky...” 007n7 choked, as the lifeless body of his son cradled in his arms—a large slash on the back of the lifeless boy as his once gentle hands clung onto him in comfort.

“He’s dead, Seven,” Shedletsky remarked, casting his sword to the side. “Turn back to your senses, young man. We are in a great amount of danger, and you know well that he’ll—“

“He’s not like them!” the father rebutted, his teeth gritting from the sheer anger. “My boy is not like those..those killers! H-he’s just..he doesn’t know what he’s doing, alright, John?!”

“Oh for heaven’s sake, Seven! Your son had literally tried to kill the entire group!” the man shouted as he waved his hand around in grave annoyance. Their party, as they treated one another, could only watch as the scene unfolded before their eyes. “Both Chance and I had to fend it off every time its minions came out to follow everyone’s move,” he continued, “Elliot nearly died, and Two Time is already serving their second life, and you know damn well how that’s going for them!”

“I-I know that, John! I’m not stupid as you, or any of you, would like to think!” 007n7 shouted, though it didn’t seem like it was going through his head. His blocky hands continued to cradle his son, his mind reminiscing of when he was just a baby. Oh, sweet, innocent c00lkidd…

A tired, yet defeated, sigh escaped Shedletsky’s mouth as he sheathed his sword. “Look. I know you miss the poor kid, but you gotta let him go,” he addressed, “I mean look at him! He’s fleshy, and dangerous. At some point, you would’ve thought to just…you know? Gave up on trying to fix him.” Yet none of his words could pierce through the father’s stubborn mind. In fact, it seemed to have angered him a little.

“M-Mr. Shedletsky?” a nervous Elliot approached the swordsman, tapping his shoulder. “I think you’re being too harsh on him—”

“I’m not being too hard on him, Elliot. I’m just…” he hesitated to continue, only to sigh in defeat once more. “Fine. I’ll let him grief. It’s the least I could do to a father.”

Shedletsky turned to the rest, who were still watching the whole ordeal. “We might need to move out. c00lkidd might be…gone, but there are worse threats to come,” he exclaimed, before making his way to them as Builderman approached him for planning on their survival.

007n7 did not budge from his place. Elliot didn’t either, but he felt obligated to at least comfort him, despite their past encounters. “H-hey, Mister…I-I know things aren’t..fine as they are now, but…” the pizza boy choked out, as nervous fingers inched their way to touch the father’s shoulder. Unaware of the strange GUI that popped up in the father’s palm.

“Wh-what?” Elliot gulped as a bead of sweat dropped from his forehead. It was as if in the blink of an eye, 007n7 disappeared. Teleported to…well, somewhere.

Oh man, how will he explain this to the two?

It rained that night.

007n7 was merely entertaining himself from news of his exploits all throughout the plains. A notorious man with a notorious hobby, enjoying the chaos as it went. Was it annoying? Sure. Harmful? Depends on who you ask.

As he was scrolling from news story after news story, the doorbell rang in surprise, causing him to raise his head up. “Huh,” he mused, confused on who might be needing his attention at this time of night; not to mention, the heavy rain outside. Hesitantly, 007n7 sat his ass up from the couch and made his way over to the front door.

Upon opening the door, the man did his usual of looking left to right to left to right. He would’ve figured that it was nothing—a prank done by the kids of his unfortunate neighborhood—only to hear the sounds of a baby crying…underneath by his feet.

“Oh shit,” 007n7 remarked, picking up the crying toddler from the cardboard box that it settled in. And as if it was instinct, he immediately pulled on the box with his foot as he attempted to close the door. “What kind of guy would leave a kid in the middle of the night?” he scoffed, cradling the child in his arms as he attempted to calm it down.

To his surprise, however, it did eventually calm down. The warmth radiating off of the exploiter had managed to calm the baby down to a peaceful slumber—its mouth cooing from comfort as 007n7 looked at it in awe.

“Oh..” 007n7 mouthed. His hand gently brushed over its round cheek, only for the baby to react with a short, bubbly giggle. 007n7 could only giggle back, his heart flaring with affection as he continued to play with the child.

He was a hypocrite—making fun of the others for their parental decisions, only for him to be burdened with the responsibility. Besides, it wasn’t like him to be so…empathetic all of a sudden. The notorious exploiter in all of Robloxia, only for him to show affection to a child.

Pathetic.

007n7 could only shake his head from the thoughts of his contradiction. “I’ve been naive,” he mumbled, his brows creasing as he took another glance at the now-sleeping child before him. Gently, he placed the baby down onto his bed, sitting down beside him as he made a silent vow to himself. “I’ll do better. I-I’ll stop exploiting if it means protecting a thing like you,” 007n7 spoke, a smile—one that is genuine—made its way to his lips.

Memories flooded in 007n7’s mind as he clung to his son after teleporting out of the graveyard and into a cave. Thunder continued to grumble outside as rain poured heavily outside of the dark cavern. It didn’t matter to him how the others were doing after the whole mess with c00lkidd—what mattered was how they dealt with him.

Oh, sweet, innocent c00lkidd.

Tears continued to swell and pour from his tired eyes, his mind still stubborn from the unfortunate events prior as a series of memories of watching his son grow from the once abandoned child to an energetic and playful kid he’s always loved. He’s already lost his son from the malice that confused him, and he is not ready to lose him from the hands of his comrades.

“Oh, gods,” 007n7 sobbed, hugging his boy tight���his tears mixing with the blood from his lifeless body. “I-I’m so sorry. Oh gods, I’m so sorry. My poor boy…my poor baby…”

While the others knew that it was for the best, given their current situation, 007n7 could not accept such a thing. Yet he could not do anything to change the outcome; only grieve and wallow in his sorrows.

[Notes from the author//artist]: WELL HELLO UH . i’m so embarrassed to upload this just now bc the banner art took me so long i had to scratch it and redo it to the one we have now. and yes! i do recognise the original comic’s idea of trapping c00lkidd just so he DIES, but i wrote this before i could even begin to realise it so ehe whoopsie + wrote this before PLEAD became a thing so 007n7 may be a little I’M SORRY—.. also i’ve already mentioned this before but this was uploaded to ao3 first so if you’ve seen it there originally, haii i was the author of it (and c00l mirror) heaheahe

will be uploading the banner art separately as well here so !!!!

[ennn]

Unpacking the Deals of Ep 8: Why and What They Mean

So episode 8 is... let's say a bit of a mess. I know there's some confusion around why Agatha proposes her terms for the first deal, why Rio flipped into cackling villain mode, why Rio makes another deal, etc.

Here's my read that hopefully helps draw a line from point A to B to C.

Let's consider the context of the first deal: Agatha's not having a good day. Two coven members who Agatha never expected to care about have died trying to protect her – a thing that has never happened before. And Death happens to be a person she can blame.

Death, who is pressing on that bruise ("Your coven is shrinking") and making her shitty day worse because she wants the kid Agatha is hardcore projecting on (and also didn't plan to care about) to die. Just like Nicky.

But Agatha then realises she has leverage on Rio. For the first time in forever, she has an advantage she can exploit. She can be in control.

And it's almost instinctive for Agatha at this point: finding the best buttons to push, the best terms for her given the opportunity.

Agatha: If I deliver Billy, you let me go. Rio: You will eventually die, Agatha. Agatha: But I want you to stop pursuing me. I want you to stop making my life hell. And when I die, a long, long, long, long, long time from now, I don't want to see your face. Rio: ... Okay.

The terms that Agatha sets out seem cruel because they are. She says what she does because she wants it to hurt. Agatha's not only rejecting Rio's continued presence in her life, she's denying all the love that Rio's given her, building on what she's said before ("You gave me nothing.")

From Rio's POV, Agatha's cutting words aside, this entire deal sucks. Because the options are:

(a) Agatha doesn't hold up her end, which Rio knows might happen: Rio knows Agatha cares about Billy ("I know how you feel about him"). Rio's constantly reminding her he's not Nicky. She was already doubting Agatha would deliver her usual number of corpses. She saw how affected Agatha was after Alice's death.

If Agatha doesn't help, she'd be choosing a boy over everything Rio's done again – and this time another woman's.

And if Rio somehow manages to take Billy anyway, Agatha will end up hating her twice forever.

(b) Agatha does hold up her end, which might also happen: Rio knows Agatha's manipulative and smart and capable. More than that, she's well aware Agatha hates her. That Agatha still doesn't see what she's done for her ("No one in history has had special treatment like you").

That she knows Agatha does care about Billy but maybe hates her so much that she's willing to go through with this to cut her out from her life. Billy would be a dear price but one Agatha's maybe willing to pay.

Even if it was a 50:50 chance for these options, I think Rio realises her relationship with Agatha is doomed either way.

Either way she does her job, with or without Agatha's help, she's going to be rejected and lose. One's just a slower path than the other.

I think that's why Rio gives in to her rage and bitterness and spite. Agatha thinks Rio's been making her life hell? She'll show her hell.

And Agatha, well I think there's some merit to the thinking that she didn't expect Rio to fold that quickly and completely.

Now for the context of the second deal, it's not clear whether Rio knows what happened with Tommy. I assume Rio doesn't – not yet anyway – as she doesn't mention it at all and seems focused on squaring that one life Billy stole.

Now here's where it gets a little squirrely, to borrow Schaeffer's language. Because if you don't look too closely, it seems to make sense: Billy stole a life so to maintain the natural balance, Rio needs to take a life, the one Billy has now.

But how does Agatha's life work as a substitute for this imbalance (“This means you’re coming with me”)? Would any other person’s life work? Could Rio have swapped someone else's life to save Nicky then? Agatha would have been all too happy to arrange for that murder.

I doubt the show is ever going to explain this so I offer few possible theories to deal with this weirdness:

Billy Maximoff is a product of chaos magic, so his existence and everything he affects already throws off the natural order, just to different orders of magnitude. Agatha’s life works as a substitute because his life is now intertwined with hers e.g. his hex probably saved her life from the Salem Seven and has the potential for greater imbalance

Rio is aware of Agatha’s tendency towards chaos and defiance of the natural order. Rio bent the rules of the universe only for Agatha. Taking her life would protect the balance in the larger scheme of things – if only so Rio won’t be further tempted to give her special treatment.

When Rio’s torturing Agatha it’s before she presents the second deal. So she’s still intending to go after Billy, she’s just removing Agatha as an obstacle while lashing out in rage and heartbreak.

In this moment Rio probably thinks Billy's in the wind. She saw how upset Billy was with Agatha at the end of episode 5. And Rio knows the reputation Agatha keeps ("Why do you let them believe those things about you?"), Rio probably thinks Agatha deliberately drove him off to keep him safe.

Then Billy pops up and Rio sees that Billy and Agatha care about each other and they're both aware they care about each other.

Fuckin’ great. Rio's not bitter at all.

Looks like you two are finally on the same page. So I'll let you decide. One of you stays with me. The other walks free.

Agatha proposed a deal designed to hurt her? Now it’s her turn.

From Rio's POV, I think here are the possible outcomes:

(a) Agatha sacrifices herself for Billy: Not impossible I think. Rio knows Agatha cares about the boy but she also knows Agatha will do anything to survive. She thinks she's above death. But again, I think Rio also knows Agatha would have sacrificed herself for Nicky if she had that choice.

What did Lorna want from the Road? To save her daughter.

This isn't an ideal outcome for Rio but she’s already resigned herself to losing Agatha I think, one way or another. This way if Agatha wants Billy to live so badly, this is the price she has to pay. The high cost of living.

(b) Billy steps up and sacrifices himself: Very possible given that Billy’s a young heroic sort and already showed up, risking his life to power up Agatha. Rio gets to do her job. Agatha will probably hate her more given the Nicky trauma but Rio’s already resigned to this on some level already, which is why she's raging.

Either way Agatha's going to hurt, and Rio's going to hurt.

It's interesting that when Billy does volunteer himself and Agatha seizes the opportunity to remind Rio of their earlier deal, Rio just shakes her head and looks amused.

You can also see for a brief moment Agatha looking almost remorseful about doing this before slipping her theatrical villainous mask on, overcompensating for her true feelings.

Do you remember pain? It kinda tickles doesn't it?

By the letter (not the spirit or intent) of the first deal, Agatha did ultimately fulfil her part:

I can arrange that. I can get him to the finish line and deliver him to you.

This is an opportunity that's almost impossible to resist for someone as calculating and ruthless and selfish like Agatha. She has power (chaos magic no less), she can have Rio leave her alone forever (she knows Rio honours her word), she knows Billy cares about her but can she really trust him?

But Agatha ultimately decides to take a risk. A calculated one sure, but still a risk.

I think the beauty in the kiss and her sacrifice is how – despite her calculating the odds – Agatha is choosing to give in to what she feels and wants in that moment.

Because she does want to protect the boy in a way no one did for her when she was young. She wants to save Billy like she couldn't with Nicky. And she does want Rio so much despite everything that's happened.

[radgalniya]

black mirror season 7 thoughts(spoilers)

dare i say, this is the best black mirror season. idc idc. i love every episode, so this isn’t a real ranking. every episode is #1.

1. USS Callister: Infinity

i don’t need to explain. amazing sequel. lived up to the hype. honestly could’ve been a movie on its own. so good. i loved the reveal that walton put a clone of robert into the heart of infinity and that the entire game was built upon that. that is so sick and evil i can’t even. then when i stupidly thought robert could be good, he was exactly who we thought he would be. come to think of it, if he had access to the hospital footage where nanette was, are you really telling me he was unaware of everything else that happened. yea right good riddance. and i almost felt sorry for that stupid ho too. also, i loved pixie’s character.

2. Common People

so tragic and real. the subscription service that takes away features and adds them to a “premium” service that costs more combined with a company exploiting their access to peoples brains in order to advertise combined with a company leveraging critical healthcare to maximize profits combined with a family struggling to concieve combined with people hurting themselves to make ends meet was honestly too real and so depressingly sad. exactly what i love in a black mirror episode.

3. Hotel Reverie

is it really a good black mirror season if there’s not an episode dedicated to a lesbian romance. i mean seriously. i hated that brandy didn’t tell them what she built with clara though. it was tragic when they made her go on with the story and then to see clara sacrifice herself and how empty brandy was when it was over. was crying real tears. the ending phone call of them flirting softened the blow a bit…a bit🤏🏿issa’s acting was a little awkward when she wasn’t being comedic but i didn’t care that much bc the episode was still so enjoyable.

4. Eulogy

i’m ngl. this guy pissed me off a little bit like he was being so unfair. making it seem like carol was the sole problem in the relationship as if he didn’t cheat first w the girl he told her not to worry about. then he didn’t even stop to think about her long enough to realize she was pregnant or that something was wrong. he was clearly very selfish and self obsessed buttttt also he was young. and i was still sad that they never got the chance to see things through before she passed. like he clearly loved her. also the main guy acted his ASS off, it was amazing. and i bawled when carol’s daughter played her song and he finally remembered carol’s face. rip carol dawg

5. Plaything

i feel like this is the underdog of the season. i’m agnostic so unfortunately i spend lots of time thinking about our creation and existence. this episode had me comparing the throngs to us and our creator to cameron. like do you think god has a deep desire to prove himself worthy of us like cameron does to the throngs? bc most of us have been taught that it should be the other way around. and do you think when things go horribly wrong on this planet that it’s just another higher being fucking with us for fun. maybe our god is fighting for us and losing, we can’t really blame god for that. ig i cared less about the tech part of this episode and more about the relationship between the throngs and cameron. also someone had mentioned maybe the throngs witnessed cameron and lump and decided humanity should die and wiped them out at the end lol valid!

6. Bete Noire

this episode had me losing my mind. i suffer from this debilitating disease where i’m always right and if some raggedy bitch used some tech to manipulate reality to the point where even when i’m right, i’m technically not right…i’d lose my fucking mind. maria was so valid for going crazy. like verity girl i’m sure it hurt deeply to be bullied in hs and i fully support ur right to vengeance but this isn’t even revenge anymore. it’s just diabolical. it’s one thing to mess around like just do more of the barnie’s/bernie’s stuff. but ur driving these women to the grave!!! and in becoming empress to the universe and a famous superstar, you never considered…therapy??? or going back and changing what happened in hs?? idk there’s so many solutions here and you picked not even one correct one. also maria’s boyfriend was so annoying. if ur my man, take my side! if i say fuck that ho, cosign!

[yanderes-galore]

Since you're writing for Naruto again, how about romantic yandere Orochimaru concept?

Sure! Hopefully I understand his character correctly ^^ Hope you enjoy!

Yandere! Orochimaru Concept

Pairing: Romantic

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Obsession, Stalking, Possessive behavior, Sadism, Manipulation, Human experimentation, Blood, Drugging/Poison, Kidnapping, Isolation, Murder, Biting, Forced "relationship".

Orochimaru is probably one of the scariest Naruto yanderes I can think of.

My main reasons why are his canon obsessive behavior, his ability to evade death, and his literal human experimentation.

Orochimaru, in my eyes, is a very unnerving villain.

His obsession is going to be in for one hell of a time because of his behavior.

He's a sadist who only ever wants to help himself.

There's a good chance if he's obsessed with you... His "love" isn't normal.

He only ever tracks people down to use them as vessels or experiments.

He also has quite the following of willing experiments....

If he has to go out of his way to hunt you down, you must be quite special to him.

Or you are just very unlucky.

I can only think of horrible things happening to Orochimaru's obsession once he has his serpentine eyes on them.

He seems twisted enough to make them one of his experiments, then turn around and say he loves them.

Want to make it worse? Make his obsession an Uchiha.

He has shown that he wants power, to do that he's been meaning to make an Uchiha his vessel (Itachi, Sasuke....).

So if he had an Uchiha obsession, it's probably infinitely worse for you.

Orochimaru is known to be highly manipulative with his charisma.

He could have his obsession be yet another loyal pawn who worships him... but I also think he enjoys the hunt.

With his ability to disguise himself and change vessels, hiding from his obsession is easy.

He'll watch you from the shadows, grinning mischievously as he thinks of ways to make you his newest toy.

There's no courting with you.

Even when he finds you attractive, he isn't going to spend time to get you to like him normally.

No, instead he plans to kidnap you.

Most yanderes at least get close to their obsession before resorting to such measures.

Orochimaru simply views it as part of the game he wishes to play with you.

His attraction to you could have occurred after kidnapping you or before.

Maybe you have a power he wishes to exploit, or maybe he took you for a different reason.

Either way... Your meeting with Orochimaru involves you being dragged into his base of operations and plopped into your own cell.

Some with a keen eye, like Kabuto, no doubt notice Orochimaru's... "fondness" towards you.

It's strange, a man such as him has not expressed care for anyone but himself.

Not old friends, not old mentors....

This is a man who kills for what he wants.

Yet here he is, talking to you softly.

Not only that but after whatever experimental horrors he puts you through... He comes back to you to offer comfort.

It's not very effective, but he never visits any other experiment as much as you.

Orochimaru is also fond of privacy.

Not even Kabuto is allowed to witness what you and Orochimaru do at times.

Which is often... intimate in nature.

Orochimaru is sadistic, after all.

To him, experimentation of all types is bonding.

Be that testing your strength, endurance... or other things not related to combat.

Orochimaru seems like the type to experiment with poisons or drugs.

He takes you, his favorite experiment, and weakens you bit by bit with what you can only assume is venom?

He likes to see how weak it makes you.

Plus, over time, it gets you immune to it.

But for now... He enjoys biting you just enough to see you weaken.

That's not the only reason he bites you, either...

He happens to enjoy marking you in any way he can.

No follower of his is allowed to communicate with you.

Orochimaru cares for nothing and no one but himself and you.

You could be chatting with someone from your cell, looking for human companionship...

Only for Orochimaru to slit their throat, eyes coldly watching their blood splatter.

"My little experiment... What did I say about speaking to others?"

Orochimaru adores everything about his little experiment.

He loves the way you feel, the way you taste, the way you squirm.

You're an experiment, a toy for him to use for his own personal entertainment.

If you're strong, he loves that too.

He's also been one who looks for strength in his test subjects.

Who knows, maybe he doesn't need Sasuke as a vessel...

Not when he has you.

Orochimaru has his ways of keeping you disciplined.

If the isolation and experiments weren't enough, he has his own ways of inflicting pain.

It can be physical... it can be mental... doesn't matter to him.

Even better if he gets to test another drug or venom on you.

He'll find what makes you compliant, one way or another.

If you're ever defiant, he'll find ways to break you.

Orochimaru is a possessive yandere, after all he loves to make marks on you.

You may be caged, but he still feels the need to show others you're his little pet.

The worst case scenario when it comes to him as a yandere is the fact he might use you as a host.

He has been known to take the bodies of others for who knows how long.

This is his key to immortality.

If he wanted his obsession to stay with him, as part of him...

He may steal your body for his own uses.

He knows you won't be willing, but you never had much of a choice.

Orochimaru knows just keeping you in a cage still allows others to steal you.

What if someone storms the place to 'rescue' you?

If he merges you two, then no one will take you from him.

He'll always remember you this way.

After all, he 'loves' you.

To him, what better way is there to show love than... well...

Becoming them?

There are no good outcomes for Orochimaru's obsession.

You're either kept as a pet and experiment... or made into his newest host.

Either way, Orochimaru doesn't care how he has you to himself...

He'll make sure you're his toy forever, no matter what the cost is.

[golden-redhead]

You know, I don't have a problem with Gi-hun sacrificing himself. I think it's pretty in character for him to do that after everything he went through. I also understand that in its own way, sacrifice is an act of rebellion, a fuck you to a system that continued to exploit and beat him down at every chance. I even firmly believe that him choosing a baby, an innocent life, over himself, especially with him being weighed down by all the guilt and regrets, was the ending that made the most sense.

So, no, I'm not one of those people who would say the act itself was out of character or that Gi-hun should have survived no matter what. I think his ending is pretty in line with what we've seen from him through the seasons. It is a culmination of all of his growth and I do think it was, at least on some level, a truly beautiful scene. Although, to be fair, most of the praise should go to the actor who truly can convey so much emotion with a simple look, no words necessary.

What is my issue then? Well, above anything else, what I find jarring and kinda unbelievable about the ending is how he doesn't actually know if he's ensuring the baby's safety.

It just doesn't feel like the same guy who went out of his way to find Sae-byeok's family or ensure that Sang-woo's mother's is taken care of. He knows what the games do to people, he knows how they exploit and exploit until you have nothing left to give. He has no guarantee that this child won't be groomed to continue the games. He has no way to ensure his promise is actually fulfilled.

I won't go as far as to say that it's a shit ending, mostly because I'm still processing and still need to settle on on what I actually think about it. But even though I can absolutely stan Gi-hun for taking a stand, for going out on his own terms, the way it was portrayed feels more defeatist than anything else. And I honestly don't think it was meant to be interpreted that way considering that they still kept this theme of hope prevailing in small ways with some of the surviving characters. Regardless of what they intended, though, this IS how this ending comes off in a lot of ways and I don't think it's unwarranted.

And it shows in how people are reacting, especially since it's A LOT to ask the audience to care more for a random baby than for characters we spent seasons establishing and getting invested in. I think the baby's inclusion in the story, while on paper interesting and in line with the symbolism of the series and fundamental questions this show asks, was... well, maybe not a mistake per se, but definitely a Choice. Not necessarily a good one. Especially since we know that the baby won't die. So at some point, the question became less about who will win the game and more about whether it'll be the sole survivor or not.

I think what frustrates many people the most, though, is that Gi-hin didn't have to die. I think more people would be open for this ending if they showed it as a situation with no solution, no hope. Him or the baby, no loopholes, no other options. But since there was still clause 3 and babies can't exactly vote, the game could have ended right there. The ending doesn't really give us a good reason as to why Gi-hun didn't opt for the option that would allow him to truly fulfill the promise and take care of Jun-hee's baby, give it a better chance at life. Which feels like a strange cop out considering that him doing that IS actually perfectly in line with the message of the show and, even more importantly, with Gi-hun's stance. This is precisely what he did at the end of season 1, choosing to believe and also prove through his own actions, that as long as you're alive, you can still make better choices. You can believe in humanity, even if it seems hopeless at times. Many people won't choose that option. Many will turn a blind eye to all the suffering and will even contribute to it if it means getting ahead.

I don't know, maybe I'm too much of an idealist, maybe I let myself believe in Gi-hun too much, but I think that that message and that Gi-hun, the one who chose to believe even when things sucked and people disappointed him, felt much more authentic to the story's overall message.

Him choosing death when there were still options feels defeatist.

It feels like him acting against the very thing he wanted to prove.

And it would be one thing if the whole message was supposed to be about the games beating this hope and conviction out of him.

It would be one thing if it was truly the only way to ensure the baby's safety and finish that game.

But it wasn't.

And honestly? That feels very inconsistent with the show I watched.

[whore-ibly-hot]

What would happen if one of the faculty (I’m thinking Critch or Murphy) found Mr Burtons more explicit photos of reader?

ps. Luv ur work!

(Love this)

Critch: He always disliked Burton, in that very particular like... old people talking about young people sort of way even though Critch isn't more than five years older. Think 'cut your hair, hippie!'. He's prepared to use this as a way to have him fired forever, and hopefully from every other educational institution, but... a part of him admits it's good work. Tasteful even. The types of photos Mr. Burton would leave anywhere they could be found are far from the most explicit photos he has of you, but those stay locked in his personal quarters.

The photos Crutch finds are you half-nude, possible in front of a painting or topless, but you look absolutely darling. Critch is sure Burton had you do this for extra credit, and he has to take some blame in that for always pushing you to have perfect grades. He'd confront Burton of course, blackmailing him into following a few guidelines from now on

"You can see why this is an issue, of course." Crtich says, suppressing the wicked grin threatening to cross his face at the sight of making the art teacher squirm. "I mean, lewd photos in a school setting, and of a student no less-"

"Its hardly lewd, Critch." Burton scoffs, taking a sip of the black coffee before him in a stained 'World's best teacher' mug. "Nude art is not pornography, okay? I know it must seem like it to you, considering you probably pale at the sight of a woman's ankles." He snaps. "Stick up your ass..." he mumbles lowly.

Critch glowers at his comment. "Youd be wise to watch your tongue-" He exclaims, hands gripping the front of Burtons desk. "Pornographic or not, I'm sure you're subjects father would be less than thrilled about how you're getting your kicks." He hisses and slaps the photos down. "But-" he raises his hands in mock surrender. "I believe in second chances-"

"What does you want, Critch?" Burton asks, cutting him off. "What do I have to do to get you to hop of my dick?"

Grimacing at the crass language, Critch settles himself. "I'll need copies of these pieces, of course. To ensure you are strictly sticking within the bounds of art and not perverting a student. Just send copies to my office, and I'll ensure they pass my inspection." He explains. "Of course, I happen to know you've been turning a blind eye to a certain pairs drug usage, even encouraging it. So let's put a stop to that, shall we?" He leans back smugly, and Burton glares back, but there's not much he can do.

"Fine. But I'll be letting them know you're getting copies, it's only right they consent to having some old creep beating his dried out dick over there pic-"

"That is enough!" Now Burton grins, seeing a rare flustered Crutch, face red and hair askew as he reacted so physically to the prodding of the man. "I expect you'll stick to the terms of o-our agreement." He clears his throat and leaves, trying to focus on the idea of beginning a collection of such lovely pictures and not that Mr. Burton has seen right through his frigid facade.

Mr. Murphy: Regardless of how explicit the photos he finds are, he's furious. How dare Burton, who he trusted, exploit you like this! He had always liked Burton, they both understood how spoiled the students at this school were. He never would've imagined him exploiting you this way. He's going to tell your father, get the man turned in and check on you. He knows the boys at this school are giving you trouble, and now one of the other faculty? He's livid.

"Burton!" There's a yelp in the art room as Mr. Burtons art and easel go clattering to the floor, his shirt collar grasped by the burly orienteering teacher. "What the fuck-"

"What are these?!" He drops the thin man like a bag of sticks, shoving the pictures into his chest so firmly it almost knocks the wind out of him.

"What?" Burton adjusts his glasses and looks at the pictures. "Oh, these are private shoots, just some nude shots- don't freak-"

"Dont freak?" He smacks him again. "You've got photographed evidence of you practically molesting them?"

Burton jolts back with a hand up. "Woah, woah, woah. Don't go saying stuff like that, no one is molesting anybody. Shit-" He stands up and remains wary around Muprhy, whose chest is rising and falling, fists clenched with rage. "These were all consensual art shoots, nothing about these is sexual!" Thats of course a lie, but the photos Murphy has are genuinely artistic pieces, mostly for reference and to help Joseph practice. "Look, see?"

Admittedly, none of your truly intimate areas are displayed besides your chest. You're either curled up or posed in a way that prevents you from being exposed. Murphy's brows furrow, but he's trying to get himself back together. Breathing heavily, he raises his hands.

"Its wrong."

"Its art." Burton emphasizes. "Listen, I understand your concern, but I even have one of the other students present for each shoot. Joseph."

Murphy knows Joseph, he's a nice enough boy, awkward, but he's not spoiled and he really does try. Plus, he's gotten some great wildlife shots for his lessons.

"I promise, I'm not doing anything like that with them. It's just art, they're safe, yeah? I know they've got enough problems with other people at this shithole. They're fine."

Murphy seems reluctant, but Burton seems genuine. "I wanna sit in." He blurts, and Burton looks up. "What?"

"I wanna sit in. Please. I'm not gonna make a fuss, but just one. Make sure they're being treated right."

Burton groans, but when he sees how serious Murphy is, he figures this is the best possible outcome.

"Fine. Fine, just don't talk to much and don't make any suggestions." Burton points a finger at his chest. "You're not much of an artist, big guy. Now go and get me an ice pack."

Murphy looks at the bruises along Burton's shirt collar and the forming purple marks on his arm, as well as the destroyed painting and coughs awkwardly. "Uh, yeah, right. Sorry..."

[pinene]

The USA is on the brink of complete cultural disintegration. It has been rotting for years now. Nobody knows their neighbors because they know they’ll probably need to move soon anyways. Many people can’t read and most just refuse to. Those with remaining patriotism essentially take pride in their own exploitation. Those without it are aimless and afraid because this machine demands blind faith.

I guess this is the way of all colonial projects and empires. But to me there’s something uniquely hollow and creepy about this one—the US commits genocide on the people who had lived on the land for generations, constantly incentivizes people to move closer and closer to its bloating border. offers people from other countries the chance to be part of the splendor of the imperial core if they just come here and deal with awful conditions quietly, they can hope to have children who will hate speaking their native language, American children. And their children could be millionaires. Just keep working, keep your head down. When the rich get richer that just means our future’s brighter.

If we are to suppose the American dream was once achievable, it certainly isn’t anymore. There’s bipartisan acknowledgement of this, and partisan explanations and solutions. But they always neglect the fact that the American dream isn’t sustainable under capitalism lol like, after a few generations, everyone would be pretty well off if all it took was hard work. But if everyone was well off, then some people couldn’t be ultra rich, and a few couldn’t be richer than god. Wealth has to grow, profit has to increase, or it all falls apart. The money is trickling upward and pooling around the rich, and most of the country is still operating under the impression that this is a good thing.

not to mention how racism and intolerance get worse when the economy does, how moral panics sooth financial anxieties. the rich and the money-seeking have so clearly bait n switched us. valorizing wealth leads us to blame anyone but the rich, blame anything but class. and now it’s reaching a point of further consolidation and openly squeezing more and more out of the 99%. They don’t have to even pretend anymore because most people are fine with it. tv shows about the wealthy are really popular. We are such an aimless people, prideful and tribal about the square borders of ruined land we live in, proud to suffer for the chance to get to give the bank and the government most of your paycheck to live somewhere and almost own a big car to traverse the emptiness. Angry that it’s all so hard, but forbidden to blame the system. Bleh