#Bed you know. What if you have drastically different sleep habits??? Preferences??? This is like a well known thing that couples struggle

[compulsiveobsessing]

i need opinions

told a couple friends that i don't think i'd be able to share a bed with my hypothetical spouse every night and they think it's weird and one asked if i had commitment issues

is that??? weird??? i have particular needs lmao

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Hi Lofty!

Fellow Healthcare worker here, I think I remember you saying you work nights? I'm a dayshifter that will be transitioning to overnights in a month, and am both excited and scared since this will be something new not just for me but for my whole department.

I was curious, did you specifically choose nights, and how do you like it compared to days? I would think nights would be quieter, but I also know to expect the unexpected, and things can go from dead to hectic in an instant.

Also, do you have any advice for going to an overnight schedule? I'm sure my sleep and eating habits will be messed up for the first few weeks until I get into a routine, are there any other challenges you think I should expect?

Sorry to talk work, I know you probably come here to get away from that, but I don't really have anyone else to talk to and felt you are a safe person to talk to.

Anyway, have a good day/night/whenever you happen to be awake! (I am well aware our schedules can be very wacky)

Hello! :D

I did in fact specifically choose nights. On my unit you have the option to do just nights or to rotate, and you can request to go on a waiting list to work only day shift. I prefer nights, but it’s a mixed bag to be perfectly honest. (This got long so I’m putting everything under the cut)

What I like about nights is that there are fewer people (there aren’t eight thousand teams rounding through the room who never introduce themselves to me and come and go without telling me a darn thing, or they ask me a million questions), visitor restrictions apply (I love family coming to see the patient… just don’t love having to entertain them or be interrogated by them while I’m trying to do stuff lol), the coworkers are much chiller it’s a very different vibe between day workers and night workers, and no management.

What I don’t like about nights is essentially not work related - it freaking kills your life outside of work. Let’s say you work three nights in a row. When you get off it’s the morning of the next day, and you can either make yourself stay up and be a zombie but awake to enjoy that day off, or you sleep the entire day, which wastes a day off, and then you’re still nocturnal for your remaining time off, which makes doing normal people things difficult. It can strain your mental health, especially with lack of sunlight, so you just have to find a way to handle it that works best for you.

I will say, there is one more thing that I don’t like about nights: many providers feel like nights are just “status quo time,” in other words, don’t do any interventions to rock the boat. I’ve fought and argued with doctors multiple times for patients who are showing warning signs of decompensating only to be ignored because they don’t want to do anything drastic on night shift. Had it happen pretty recently and just about wanted to punch an intensivist (I had told the resident that we needed to temporize the patient’s K because it was 5.5, and given his AKI and low UO we should consider options like diuresing or even CRRT and since the resident was brand new she listened, but the intensivist later was like “eh you didn’t need to do that” and wouldn’t do anything about the pt’s nonexistent urine output and ATJEIWOAJFDKSALJFEIWO I do not like that man)

Advice for going to night shift! I’ll make it bullet points so I stop having these giant paragraphs:

When possible, try to cluster shifts together. That way you’re not constantly jumping back and forth with your sleep cycle

The day before you work, there are multiple ways to make yourself nocturnal in preparation. I usually push myself to stay up as late as possible, and go to bed between 4-7am. Others will take a nap in the afternoon before their shift.

Black out curtains are your beloved. They make sleeping during the day so much easier. If you can’t afford those at the moment, an eye mask is a cheaper and effective alternative.

Many of us need some kind of noise to help settle our minds after work since many go to bed directly after work. A fan, a white noise machine, anything like that. I personally like ambience videos off YouTube, rain and thunderstorms or crickets and stuff.

If you’re trying to fall asleep after a shift and it just ain’t happening, there are a few things you can try. If benadryl makes you sleepy, you can try using that, though I don’t necessarily recommend making it a habit so much as a backup plan. Some people say magnesium makes them sleepy. I’ve used alcohol before to help me sleep but it doesn’t promise the best sleep. Another option is carbs! I’ll eat just a couple slices of bread or something and then you get a nice little food coma feeling.

Try not to kill yourself with your caffeine intake lol. And note when to stop caffeinating so you can fall asleep! I usually have to stop by 4am or I won’t be able to sleep right after work. (Though lately I’ve given up on falling asleep right after work, it usually takes my mind a couple hours to settle down so I fall asleep closer to 10/11am or so)

Note that working nights is probably gonna take a toll on your mental and physical health. Take vitamin D supplements to compensate for the lack of daylight, it’ll help boost your mood too. A lot of us have light lamp therapy stuff too, especially for winter. Try to find a good balance of letting yourself rest at home to wind down and being with some kind of support system.

Have fun! Night shift crew is almost always awesome, we’re wacky and fun and laid back! :)

[dameronswife]

8, 13 + 25 for the ask game!

hey, thanks blaire!!! <333 i hope you're having a good day/night!

8. How closely do you identify with/as your s/i's, if you have any?

I touched on this a bit in my last ask, but it's a variation depending on the s/i. With Volya, I poured so much of myself into her that it feels like we're a mobius strip, I'm not sure where I end and she begins. She's the most s/i character I've ever made; she's her own person, but she's also just me, stripped down to my bare essentials.

Emilia's a really different story though, and I'm not gonna lie? I find that very interesting. I think it may have something to do with the fact that she's a lot more recent than Volya, but I definitely don't identify as strongly with her (yet) as I do Volya. That might change more in time the more I write Emilia, but she does come across to me as a lot more confident and in control of her life and her circumstances, than I am. She knows what she wants, and she's comfortable in her own body and with her own desires (I Think, anyway, she might contradict me later on this). That's still smth I struggle with, but maybe one day I'll be able to relate more strongly with her!

13. How close do you prefer to stay to canon?

It entirely depends on the 'verse. My initial universe for Volya with Poe, picks up canon and gently tosses it out the airlock. It is a hard canon divergence, starting midway through the Poe comics, and pretty drastically alter the course of the films themselves. More recent 'verses for her though, have followed a little more in-line with canon; they still shake up the timeline for the comics, but I think the movies more or less happen the same, just with the addition that Poe actually has someone in his corner.

With Emilia, I haven't played hardly at all with her 'verse with Miguel so I don't know much about that, but she only meets Marc until after the events of the first season of MK - about a year after, actually. So currently, it's also canon divergent from wherever they may go after that. I might change things later, or make another universe that stays more in line, but I also have a habit of treating the current 'verse I have for her, as not part of the m.cu, because I forget mk is part of it. I do have a timeline for her that fits the m.cu though, just in case I ever want to play with that.

25. Any favorite shipping tropes you usually love but don't like in your selfships? Or any tropes you usually can't stand but like in your selfships?

Hm. I don't think I have any tropes that I love, that I don't like for my self-ships to be honest. As for the rest of the question - I wouldn't really say they're tropes I can't stand, but they're also not tropes that I would actively seek out if I wasn't writing them. I have an AU where Poe and Leia are First Order, and he and Volya were already romantically involved when he leaves for the First Order to stay with Leia, and Volya remains with the Resistance. At some point, it becomes an objective to recruit Volya to their ranks because she's too much of an asset to the Resistance and a threat to the First Order, so Poe begins the slow going process of trying to seduce Volya over to the dark side by leaning on their feelings for each other -- they even sleep together while still enemies. Volya pretty much gets into bed with him, knowing that this is another attempt to get her to join him. It's definitely not a trope I would seek out, being as toxic and messy as it is, and it definitely should hit some squicks of mine, but since I'm writing it, it doesn't bother me yanno?

More recently, Emilia and Marc kind of shocked me because I realized that I think their relationship actually begins as fwb. I have never read any fics with that trope before, so the fact that it got stuck in my brain really surprised me. But it works really well for them and it's been a lot of fun writing it!

general self-ship asks!

[dtsilkymahajan]

8 Common Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms

Concerns are rising day by day regarding food and the daily eating habits of people. There is an increase in the consumption of unhealthy food such as fast food and soft drinks, but consuming them alone isn’t the reason for health concerns. Do you know where the blame rightfully belongs? Eating habits and eating might be the sole reason for triggering and accelerating various eating disorder symptoms. In this article, we will take a quick, deep look at 8 common eating disorders among people, and analyze their symptoms to get a better understanding of how eating habits alone can have a drastic effect on lifestyle.

Binge Eating Disorder

The most common eating disorder. Also known as BED, Binge Eating Disorder causes you to consume large amounts of food rapidly, often until discomfort. Individuals with BED often experience feelings of distress, shame, or guilt afterward. BED can affect a person regardless of age, health conditions, and weight. It is extremely unpredictable and can ruin a healthy eating schedule completely.

2. Rumination Disorder

Rumination Disorder occurs due to voluntary action forcing food to regurgitate from the stomach back into the mouth. The food is either swallowed, chewed, or spit out. Triggers for this state include stress, changes in lifestyle, or sudden shifts in eating habits.

3. Night Eating Syndrome

NES, or Night Eating Syndrome, is an eating disorder with a unique trait that helps to identify it. People suffering from NES delay their food intake and mostly consume small portions of food throughout the whole day, not satisfying their hunger completely. This happens due to a lowered appetite. NES patients often find themselves waking up at night and getting their sleep interrupted by intense hunger which forces them to eat again and again during night time, which is quite different from other eating disorder symptoms.

4. Emotional Eating

Emotional eating is the act of consuming food in response to emotions other than physical hunger, such as stress or melancholy. Forced eating is a technique used by some people to distract themselves from difficult situations and to control certain emotions. It frequently entails consuming comfort or junk food, which, if done frequently, can result in weight gain and other health issues.

5. Avoidant/Restrictive Intake Disorder

You must have come across picky eaters other than children. Those picky eaters are likely suffering from ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, also known as Selective Eating Disorder. People suffering from ARFID only eat food that they prefer based on texture, taste, or smell. People with ARFID usually avoid important daily nutritional intakes and normally continue with the same list of foods for a long time, which can cause more complications than you can imagine.

6. Purging Disorder

Purging behaviors like induced vomiting, abusing laxatives, and binge eating without control can lead to purging disorder. Purging can cause severe electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, sickness, and more physical problems. Although behavioral changes are what mostly matters in this case, professional help from a dietician will be necessary for this eating disorder treatment.

7. Pica

Pica is a dangerous eating disorder that causes severe interruptions in a person’s brain and thought process. Pica is characterized by a strong craving that makes you attempt to eat inedible material such as rocks or paper.

8.Swallow Disorder

People diagnosed with swallow disorder can face a hard time swallowing chewed food. People may spit the food out after chewing. This can cause significant nutrition loss and weaken the immunity system if carried on for the long term. Swallow disorder can also cause severe malnutrition over time if left untreated.

Conclusion

A regular lifestyle can be severely harmed by eating disorders. The physical and mental health of a person can be significantly impacted by disorders like binge eating disorder and swallow disorder. Recovery depends on early detection and the right kind of care. If you or someone you know is exhibiting eating disorder symptoms, get treatment and direction from a professional. Keep in mind that with the correct assistance and support, recovery is achievable. If you want professional weight loss guidance in Bangalore contact Silky Mahajan. She is one of the top weight loss dietician in Bangalore.

[gangrenados]

Yandere Jason Todd

I have to say that these are a bunch of multiples ideas, so it might a little bit dispersed.

Warning: murder, kidnapping, manipulation

I don't condone any of this behavior, we all know this is a really shitty thing to do.

Matthew Daddario as Jason fancast cuz I like it!!

▪Let's start with something simple: Jason is a very possessive and over protective yandere who doesn't fear to kill whoever dares to put themselves between him and you, especially if they're rivals.

▪There's a big difference when it comes to how he'll be with you depending on what state of his life he's in.

•Fresh of out of the Pit Jason will obsess over you for the sole reason that he wants to posses something in order to feel like he has gained some control over his life.

° Jason doesn't love you, you're just an object that he use to feel in control so he will manhandle you and break you as he pleases.

°It's hard for him to realize that what he's doing is wrong and by the time he finally accepts it, you'll probably be death or in a terrible mind state.

°Jason will have succeed in breaking you and he will punish himself about it.

•Arkham Knight Jason see you as a something that he needs to possess in order to feel human and loved again. He almost worships you as a higher being.

°Jason will hold on you in dear life, hoping that your company will make him feel better.

° Jason is more mindful over your needs and what you might feel about him and being held hostage, those thoughts makes him deeply insecure and sick to his stomach. However, Jason can't bring himself to let you go, he needs you.

°He wouldn't hurt you on purpose, but rather will choose to threaten you with breaking all your bones or killing those you love.

°This applies when he's jealous. Jason will pin you up against wall and point a gun at you as he cries and screams why was the cause for you to betray him.

°You always knew Jason was by far more strong than you but having him towering over you in the middle of a breakdown as he waves around a loaded gun is making you panic.

°Jason wouldn't kill you, but he know where to shoot without killing. You're gonna suffer with him if you don't start to give him answers.

°This version of Jason is mentally and emotionally unstable, he's more likely to breakdown and cause chaos since he can't fully control what he's feeling or how to process it.

°Jason might worship you and treat you as if you were made of glass, but he might kill you in one of his anger rampages.

• Red Hood Jason in the other hand is in a better mental place so it's less likely that he'll hurt you out of an emotional decontrol.

° Also there's the fact that, as that his Arkham Knight version, Jason prefers to use threads to keep you under his control rather than physical punishments. However, he'll use them if your being too defiant.

His punishments tend to be: isolation, spanking, making you use a collar shock, etc

°Jason doesn't see you as an object that will make him feel better, he genuinely loves and cares for you.

°He's deeply afraid that something bad will happen to you if he's not there to protect you.

°Jason see you as a defenseless, naive person who needs him to survive. He's gonna be your savior and lover even if you don't want him to.

°Oh don't try to escape, he'll find you pretty easily and drag you back to the safe house as he scolds you for being such a stupid brat. And if someone else was helping you escape? Jason will kill them in front of you to show you a lesson.

°He might nice and caring to you, but Jason doesn't tolerate when a darling talks back or defy him.

He doesn't like a bratty darling since it makes him think you don't trust him enough. Jason truly believes he knows what's better for you, so it's not gonna end well if you question his decisions.

°Might pull up a dirty move to make you stay, like hiring some goons to scare you if you decide to leave him. So Red Hood can come, kill them and be your hero!

°One thing to keep in mind is that all of his version are deeply insecure and touched deprived. They might want to hold you and kiss you, but it's gonna be a long way until they finally don't hesitate to do such thing.

°Their distan and pretty close to you at the same time. This goes more with the Arkham Knight and Red Hood though.

I'm gonna keep talking about the Red Hood version, so keep reading!

▪Jason wants you and will have you, he doesn't care how far he has to go for that to become true.

▪He wants to know every little single detail about you, it doesn't matter if they're insignificant.

▪So he will study you and take notes about your preferences, your weaknesses, what you like and what not and what are those little habits you have so internalized that you don't even notice you make.

▪It will lead to a point that Jason will know you better than you think to know yourself.

▪He will set cameras and a security system in your house and you will notice that Red Hood has been appearing too much near your neighborhood lately...weird.

▪Also the crippling sensation that someone is watching has been being so persistent when you go out.

▪You have tried to calm yourself down saying that it's normal since you live in a city like Gotham, but that doesn't make it any better.

▪Also lately you don't feel alone when you're in your apartment. You don't feel alone at all to be honest and it's creeping you out.

▪And what about this new guy in your life? He looks so mysterious and bad boy-ish, also wow he's pretty damn handsome and easy to talk to! How this guy can be friend of yours!?

▪Yeah, Jason got over his doubts and went out of his way to reach to you and be part of your life (with you knowing this time)

▪There's something we have to address here: at the beginning Jason couldn't accept that what he was doing was wrong. He didn't even want to acknowledge that he was deeply infatuated with you.

▪Jason didn't mean for this crush to go that far and the idea of what he's really doing, looking through the cameras he installed in your room, was making him sick.

▪However, he couldn't be away from you for long, if something happened to you it would drive him crazy, since the idea that you weren't there was enough to make anxiety paralyze his entire body.

▪Jason needs to protect you like he needs to breathe. It's not an option but a vital necessity.

▪What happens is that Jason's mind is torn between the voice that tells him to watch you closely and the one who's screaming at him and begging to stop all of this.

▪ Jason wants to possess you so he can keep the dangerous world away from you, is better than the rational part of his mind that tells him that what he is doing is foolish and will end badly.

▪But to be honest here, Jason doesn't pay much attention to the rational side of his brain unless he has a breakdown since he's more sensitive and open to those sad thoughts.

▪During one of those breakdowns were the main reason why he took you one night after about a month of overthinking every decision he has made so far and the numbing that he might lose you if he doesn't do something drastical.

▪So during a seemingly normal night in Gotham, when the rain soaked everything in it's path and made your warm bed even comfortable than ever, an exalted Red Hood broke into your apartment to kidnap you.

▪He didn't leave any space for doubt, so without hesitation he pricked your neck with a needle and carried to one of his safe houses.

▪Jason feels like he can breath again now that you're on his bed, sleeping fondly thanks to the tranquilizer.

▪You look so beautiful and innocent, it only reassures Jason that what he did was the right thing.

▪You need him to protect you from the horrible things of the world, it's more than obvious that you can't take care of yourself and Jason is more than glad to keep you safe.

▪Yeah, that's all he wants in reality. Jason doesn't give a fuck if you don't love him right away since he have the hope that one day you'll understand and finally accept his love and devotion for you and you'll do the same.

[nejibaby]

Paper Rings

Pairings: Neji x Y/N

Song reference/inspiration: Paper Rings by Taylor Swift

A/N: HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! I WROTE THIS ON A WHIM. AND NOW I AM GOING TO ASCEND BECAUSE OF THIS. Please let me know your thoughts~

The birds were chirping by the time you woke up. As you stretched your arms, a smile had found its way into your face.

Usually, you’d be so grumpy in the mornings because you truly weren’t a morning person, yet there are random days like today where you find yourself waking up with bursts of happiness.

Most days there were reasons why you were feeling such a way, like when you’d get a full eight hour sleep, when you’d have a great dream, when you know you’re going on a date with your boyfriend Neji, or when you’d get your payment for your missions. This time, however, you didn’t know the reason why you’re this happy first thing in the morning.

You quite literally woke up on the right side of the bed today, which has always been Neji’s side of the bed, but he was nowhere to be found. You would’ve preferred to have woken up in his arms like you normally did.

You raked your mind trying to remember Neji’s schedule for the day. It was his day off so he didn’t have to go on missions and he didn’t have to meet up with Team Guy. You wondered where he went at such an early hour but you didn’t put too much thought about his whereabouts.

He was probably called in for an emergency mission or maybe he had an unexpected meeting with the Hyuga clan. He was, after all, going to be the new head of the clan. After the Fourth Shinobi War, he was recognized by his clan for his contribution during the war and for representing the clan with dignity, honor, and strength — the traits that the Hyuga clan deemed necessary for the next leader to have.

Regardless of the reason why Neji wasn’t there by your side when you woke up, you knew you didn’t have to worry because you knew he’d be safe. He can handle himself and besides, it was a time of peace.

You didn’t have any plans for the day so you found yourself going out and about. You found it amazing how your good mood could drastically change your perspective. For example, on most days, you wouldn’t take your time looking around the village and the people in it, yet today you found yourself entranced with the village. The sun was shining bright yet somehow the village seemed to be brighter.

As you walked through the streets, you caught sight of a stall selling accessories. It was no secret that you were a fan of these things. Even the merchant knew you by name from the amount of times you bought from their stall.

More often than not, you’d buy earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and anklets from the merchant. You just generally like shiny things. But this time however, your eyes strayed towards a simple lavender hair clip. It reminded you of Neji’s eyes and you couldn’t help but reach out for it. Without even thinking twice, you bought it.

Neji wasn’t the type of boyfriend who would stop you from buying things you don’t need. He wasn’t controlling. However, he sure was blunt in telling you that you don’t need that much accessories. Who would need eight necklaces when you only have one neck anyway?

You almost giggled at the thought of him commenting on your recent purchase when you still have four unused gold hair clips at home. As a response, you could always tease him for buying a ton of books when he doesn’t have enough time to read them. Although you wouldn’t admit the fact that you’ve read all the books beside his bed.

The thought of Neji made you smile, making your day much, much better than how you felt waking up. Your good mood seemed to be infecting the others as well since there were a lot more people smiling at your direction.

At one point you came across Tenten too who beamed upon the sight of you. You had a whole conversation about how your day went and even got a compliment from her about your new hair clip. Was she chirpier than usual or was that just your imagination? Either way, her company was great.

“So have you seen Neji yet?” She asked.

“Ah, not yet. Do you happen to know where he is?”

It was a good thing you were both walking and you weren’t looking at her direction, rather, you were staring at a bird that flew by. Otherwise, you would’ve noticed the way her smile faltered for a second.

“Uh, I don’t t-think so.” There was a hint of nervousness in her answer.

Normally, you would’ve pried as to why she answered that way, but you were still happily watching the bird flying freely in the sky.

“Hmm? Oh, alright then. I’m sure I’ll find him somewhere,” you distractedly said.

“Ah, I’ll have to go! I forgot I have to meet with Lee today. Bye Y/N!” Tenten quickly said.

You finally tore your gaze from the bird and looked back at her to wave her goodbye. “Okay. Tell Lee I said hi,” you yelled with a smile while watching her figure walk away.

You continued your trek around the village, just contentedly watching the citizens do their own thing. It was after an hour and a half of Tenten leaving your side did you see Neji. He was looking rather anxious so you immediately went to his side.

For someone who had an amazing visual prowess such as the Byakugan, he still got startled when he saw you standing in front of him despite you being in plain sight. You wondered what was going on in his head. He must’ve been thinking hard about something for him not to notice you.

“Neji, baby, are you alright?” You worriedly asked.

“Ah, uh, yes.”

You weren’t satisfied with his answer so you pulled him to an alleyway, away from people’s prying eyes since you knew Neji was a private person. Whatever’s plaguing his mind was definitely something important for him to look that much anxious. Because if it wasn’t, he wouldn’t have trouble masking his emotion.

“Is there something troubling you?”

“Nothing.”

“Was this about your mission yesterday? Or were you assigned on another S-rank mission today? Are you worried about it?” You blurted out the questions one after the other.

He shook his head, “No it isn’t about a mission.”

“Is it about Naruto or Hinata? Or both?”

“No, not really.”

You frowned. “Well then, is it because of me? Did I do something wrong?”

His breath hitched at your question. Then he looked at you tenderly. His eyes found your newly purchased hair clip and his hand gently touched it. “This looks good on you,” he softly said.

“Yeah, it reminded me of you,” you automatically answered. Then you realized he didn’t truly answer your question. “So it’s me, right? I probably did something wrong. I’m sorry I’m not sure what I did but if I hurt your feelings in any way, I’m sorry I didn’t mean it,” you babbled on.

“No, you didn’t do anything. Don’t worry.”

“It’s the Hyuga clan, isn’t it?” You guessed again.

“No, the clan is doing fine. There isn’t any issue.”

If those weren’t the cause of his worries then there was only one more thing that would make him feel this distracted — thoughts about his father.

“Is it… is it about Hizashi?” You almost whispered.

A small smile had appeared on his face at the mention of his father’s name. “I do miss my father, but that’s not what I was worried about. Frankly, I’m not worried about anything at all.”

That was clearly a lie.

Neji used to have a habit of keeping things for himself back in the day but he changed. It seemed like today he reverted to his old ways.

However, you’ve already asked a ton of questions and you knew well enough when to stop prying. If Neji was ready, he would tell you at his own pace.

“Okay… You must’ve had a long day,” you said. Instinctively, you gave him a quick peck on the lips.

Neji certainly wasn’t expecting that. He blinked a few times before regaining his bearings. A blush crept into his cheeks. “What was that for?”

“Nothing,” you cheekily said.

Then another peck on his lips.

This time a genuine smile was etched on his face.

“It’s going to be alright,” you told him with a sweet smile.

“Thank you,” he looked at you lovingly.

“No problem, baby,” you chirped.

And then after a minute of looking into each other’s eyes, he paled, as if he was hit by a sudden realization. You only looked at him curiously after he reacted that way. He cleared his throat, “I remembered I had something to do with Lee.”

You furrowed your brows and tilted your head. Neji almost swooned at how cute you looked. Then you asked, “What are you guys up to?”

Neji could feel a sweat forming at your interrogation. “Huh? What do you mean?”

“Well, I caught up with Tenten a little while ago and then all of a sudden she dashed out saying she was supposed to meet with Lee,” you told him. “So what are you guys going to do?”

“We, uh… Lee… is, uhm…”

“You know what, you don’t have to tell me,” you cut him off. You knew well enough that Lee could talk Neji into doing ridiculous things. Tenten would be a little more apprehensive but if Neji would do it, she would give in eventually. And you knew Neji preferred not talking about whatever Lee had him do.

You could hear the sigh of relief Neji released when you answered that way. Without saying anything more, he quickly made his way to meet his friend.

You chuckled at your boyfriend. He looked absolutely endearing whenever he was flustered. You shook your head and got out of the alleyway, deciding that it was time for a quick snack.

You made your way to the bakery to buy your favorite cinnamon roll. It wasn’t surprising that you found Hinata there as well. Your friendship with Hinata was furthered by your common love for cinnamon rolls after all.

You chatted with her for the entirety of your time eating the delicacy. She always reminded you of Neji despite them having different personalities, so you were quite comfortable in her company. You continued your conversation with her even after you both finished eating. Even as you both left the bakery, you couldn’t be separated. It’s been a while since you last saw her and you had so many stories that you wanted to tell and hear from her as well.

Hinata seemed to be talking a lot more this time and she looked so excited as well. Why? She didn’t say, it felt weird to ask. Maybe she woke up in a good mood just like you? In any case, you were happy that she was happy.

The subject of your conversation shifted to the wedding preparations for her and Naruto’s wedding. You offered to help in any way you can but she told you everything was coming along just fine. Then she made a comment that if you needed help in some things, she’d be there to help too. It sounded like she was talking about something and you wondered what she meant but thanked her anyway despite not knowing what she was possibly implying.

You were rambling about your most recent mission at the Hidden Cloud Village where you bumped into the Eight-tails jinchuriki, Killer B. You were telling her about this rap he did. You were too deep in your story that you didn’t notice she was leading you to the riverside.

Hinata waited for you to finish your story, giggling in the right parts. As your story came to an end, she said, “I’m glad you had fun with your mission. I hope you had fun spending your time with me too,” she smiled, “but I’ll have to go now. I still have to talk to Iruka sensei about something.”

“Of course, I had fun with you! It’s been awhile since we last hung out together. Sorry if I took up too much of your time though. You should’ve told me earlier you had other plans.”

She giggled and told you it was fine. Then she walked backwards, waving goodbye.

When she was out of sight, it was only then that you noticed that the sun was setting and that you were right on time to witness it.

A few minutes later, you heard someone behind you clearing their throat. When you turned around, you saw Neji.

Instantly, you beamed and went to hug him. “Neji baby!” You greeted, voice muffled because you’ve buried your face into his chest.

Neji shook his head at your antics but with a smile on.

You pulled away and asked, “So how was your day with Lee?”

“Tiring. How was yours?”

“It was nice. But it became better now that I’m with you.”

A blush had formed on his cheeks at your statement. He avoided eye contact too. Then he suddenly grabbed your hand and led you away.

“Where are we going?”

He didn’t respond. You just went along. But it only took a few steps before he came to a stop. You peeked over his shoulder to see where he led you. It was your time to blush.

In front of you, just further down the riverside where Hinata left you, was a picnic mat that had been set up with a basket containing fruits. It was the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

“Was this what you’ve been up to?”

Neji nodded.

Your heart swelled. It wasn’t everyday that Neji did grand gestures like this.

“Oh, Neji!” You hugged him tightly. “You’re so sweet! Was this also what you were worried about?”

“Ye— I mean, I told you I wasn’t worried about anything.”

“I’m sure you weren’t,” you teased. “This is nice, come on let’s watch the sunset together!” You said as you tugged his hand and sat on the mat.

You both sat on the mat side by side, silently watching the sun and the soft golden glow it casted on the sky. Unbeknownst to you, Neji’s eyes were only on you.

All of a sudden, Neji spoke up, “I love you.”

You tore your eyes away from the sunset and focused on Neji. In this lighting, he looked mesmerizing. “I love you too, Neji.”

But once again, Neji looked unsettled. “But I have so many flaws and I’ve done so many wrong things when I was younger…”

“I still love you just the same, regardless. Besides, everyone makes mistakes and if it weren’t for those, we wouldn’t be who we are now. We probably wouldn’t be here together too.”

“...and my clan is just... They aren’t that great too…”

“It’s fine, Neji, that’s fine.”

He was going to say something more but the words got stuck on his throat when you said, “I love you. In your entirety. Even with your flaws, complications, and problems too.”

He then went to grab something in the basket. You curiously watched as he searched for something. Then when he retracted his arm, a small box was enclosed in his palm. As if on cue, you noticed fireflies flying around, making the moment look more magical.

When he opened the box, you gasped. Tears had started forming in your eyes.

“I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?”

In that moment, somehow the rest of your time together as a couple flashed before your eyes. You remembered the bickering between the two of you. You remembered how you got together. You remembered the days you spent training with each other. You remembered him moving into your place. You remembered the fights between the two of you and how you made up. You remembered how you almost lost each other during the war.

Neji panicked at your silence. You were close to tears and he didn’t know if it was a good thing or a bad thing.

The first thing that came out of your mouth after the silence was, “I love you, Neji.”

And then you stopped talking again.

“It’s the ring, isn’t it? I know it’s simple, I should’ve just got the other one,” he nervously rambled.

“The ring is perfect,” you cut him off.

“But—”

“I like shiny things but I’d marry you with paper rings.”

Neji looked shocked. “Really?”

“That’s right. Darling, you’re the one I want.”

“So…?”

“Yes, I’ll marry you, Neji.”

[thenextchapter22]

Mail Order… Kitten Girl

Part 4: Demons?!

Description: Satan accidentally orders a special type of ‘cat’ online after having a few too many drinks…

Tags: Past Abuse, Past Non/Con, Slavery, Pet Play, Cat Hybrids, Fluff, Comfort, Explicit Sexual Content

Pairing(s): Reader/Everyone (but Luke)

Link to my AO3: Click Here

Part One  Part Two  Part Three

+++++ MINORS DNI +++++

You had been given clothes first. Asmo, the flirty one, lead you to his bedroom. It smelled like flowers, and fruit, and while it was nice it was a little overwhelming to your senses at first.  

“Here, sit on the bed and I’ll grab some clothes for you,” he said softly, and sat you on the edge of the bed. You cared not that you were as nude as the day you were born, and he didn't either. It was typical of Kitten Girls to be so and you had been trained for it; Master’s liked their Kitten’s ready at all times.  

Asmo disappeared into his walk-in closet, and you looked around the room, bouncing on the bed. It was soft and warm, you wanted to sleep in it.

“Ah, here, this should fit you perfectly!”  

You jumped as he emerged from his closet. He had a few pieces of cloth in his arms, and they all looked cozy and you even saw a pair of fuzzy socks. You had never had those before. This was a real treat you would take advantage of.  

He sat on the bed next to you, smiled at you again and thus giving your body slight shivers. Something in his eyes made you feel pleasant.  

You waited for him to do something, but he seemed to be admiring your face. The staring was nerve wrecking. “You’re very beautiful, little kitty,” he eventually stated. “Can I pet your ears?”  

You blushed, but nodded. "You can,” you softly spoke in the quiet room.  

He squealed. His fingers were delicate on your head, and he scratched in the right places before he carefully stroked over your ears. Such a gentle touch, and he made sure to be slow about it. You found your eyes closing in contentment.  

When he stopped after a minute, you pouted. And you realized you’d been purring, too, which made your cheeks burn. You curled your tail around your waist and squeezed, a distraction you had done over the years to get out of your own head.  

He giggled. “I think you should get dressed. Then we can go to see what Beel made for you to eat.” Asmo handed you the stack he’d set on his side. “You can change here, or go into my closet. Whatever makes you feel more comfortable.”  

You shrugged. You were already nude. This was one of your Masters’ rooms after all. Putting on clothes within the first hour of being here was strange, but if it was what they wanted…  

You slipped on the underwear, cotton, and loose pants, also cotton, then the tank top and after that the sweatshirt. Everything was either pink or pink and glittery, but not uncomfortable. You had to adjust the pants to make them a little lower so it could be freed. You sat back down and put the socks on. You felt so warm and soft, almost sleepy. But Asmo said food was next, so you kept your eyes open and looked to him for what to do.  

He smiled, and his eyes sparkled. “Good. Let’s go to the kitchen,” he said, and took your hand to lead you out of the room.  

_+_  

The kitchen was packed with people. You hadn’t ever been around so many in one room in a very long time. You counted and they were all there, all the men from before in the first room, probably to because they wanted to see you. They stared at you, almost ogling but not quite, and then went back to doing whatever else they were doing.  

You followed Asmo to the center of the room, and glanced around, taking in the many different types of machines and types of food all over. Some of it looked quite strange, but you supposed that you hadn’t been in an actual kitchen in a while. It was mostly served to you in your rooms, or in a cafeteria style.  

“She looks cozy, Asmo,” said the sleepy-looking one. He sat on a bar top with a spotted pillow, his head pressed down into it. His head tilted sideways so he could speak clearly.  

“Thank you Belphie. I wanted our new darling to be cute and comfortable,” he said proudly.  

You looked down at your feet, sliding them on the tiled floor. It was fun, like skating. You smiled and did it again, and then sucked in a breath when you bumped into a solid chest.  

You backed up and put your head down, shaking. “S-s-sorry,” you stuttered.  

There was a large hand on your head, and you ‘oof’ed. “Don’t worry about it.”  

You glanced up to see a large red-headed man, the one from before that mentioned food. He grinned at you. “Your hair is soft, and so are your ears.”  

Blushing, you said, “Thank you,” quietly, again. So far, they hadn’t told you to be quiet, so you hoped you would be able to speak a little more here. It was nice to hear your own voice.  

“So, what did you make for her, Beel?” asked the white-haired man. He stood over the red-head, Beel, who was cooking in a large pot on the stove.  

“A simple broth soup. Not sure what’s she’s eaten before, so something lighter will be good.”  

You inhaled, and sighed. It smelled salty and sweet, and the rich aroma made your stomach growl.  

The men all laughed. You hid your face in one hand, and your other flickered with the tip of your tail in nervous habit.  

“Well, I assume she’ll like it from that noise,” Lucifer stated with a smirk.  

Beel turned his head and smiled. “It’s ready.”  

You were the only one who ate (but you did see Beel sneak some, but it wasn’t your place to speak against a Master). It was nerve-wrecking, but you didn’t care. It tasted so good. You drank the entire bowl and had seconds, and Beel seemed glad to dish it out. Then you sighed in delight and purred, licking your lips and cleaning your fangs with your tongue.  

Lucifer let you settle for a minute before he spoke. “Now that you’ve eaten, I think we should all take a seat in the common room and talk.”  

Everyone got settled on the sofas and chairs in the next room. It was a nice little set up, books and a fireplace, and soft light from the lamps surrounding the furniture. You made to sit on the floor closest to Lucifer, because no one permitted you to sit on the couches, but he gave you a look and pointedly glanced at the open seat beside the white-haired man.  

You sat obediently and straightened your back.  

He cleared his throat. “I think we should all start with introductions. I’m Lucifer, the eldest brother.”  

The one beside you moved frantically in his seat and grinned. “Oi, I’m Mammon, the second oldest and the Greatest!”  

There was silence, aside from some beeping, and you looked up to see everyone glaring at the purple-haired man.  

“Levi!” a few of them shouted.  

He jumped and made a crazy noise. “W-what? Oh, I—I’m Leviathan, but just call me Levi, you normie.”  

You frowned. Did he insult you? There was no way to tell.  

A sigh from the blonde across from you with crossed legs. “My name is Satan. Pleased to meet you.” He smiled, and it was very sweet.  

“You know me, darling~ My name is Asmodeus, but I prefer Asmo,” he said with a flirty wink. You felt gooey on the inside looking in his pretty pink eyes, like he was entrancing you or something.  

The large man smiled. “I’m Beelzebub, but Beel works, too. Whatever you want.” He hit the sleeping one beside him, and sighed. “This is Belphegor, but just call him Belphie.”  

You looked around found them all staring at you.  They were all family, which was nice. All brothers. You twitched in your seat, their gazed almost pressuring you, and you didn’t know what they wanted to happen next. But then, they were introducing, so that meant…  

“I—I don’t… my name...” you didn’t go by any name, not anymore. “Just call me… Kitten.”  

They nodded, or smiled gently. They seemed to understand and respect that, and you almost cried with relief and happiness. Your new Masters were so kind.  

Lucifer clapped his gloved hands together. “Well, we should get you a room then. I also want to let you know one more thing, seeing as you are part Human and are probably unaware.”  

He went on to explain that they were all… demons. And you were in a place called the Devildom.  

You laughed. You hadn’t laughed in so long, and it felt good. “You—ha—you are—haha,” you couldn’t even speak, the idea was so absurd. It was totally wrong of you to laugh at your Masters but you could not help yourself.  

Yes, you were part cat, but that was just genetics, this was an entire Heaven/Hell, and God and the Devil thing. That was no way true. If so, God would not have allowed you to go through what you did. Because if he did, then what kind of God was he?  

Lucifer was pissed off. “You dare to laugh?”  

Then, an unspeakable event happened. Smoke appeared, black and wild, all around him. And you looked and saw several types of smoke appearing around your other Masters as well. The sleeping one was no long asleep, and had his own smoke covering.  

Once it cleared, seconds later, they had drastically changed…  

Horns of different shapes on all of their heads. Tails or wings, fluttering about. Fangs, sharper than yours, prominent on their grinning or sly smirking lips. Outfits with chains, leather, and flamboyant colors, jewelry that sparkled and gleamed. It was magical, and insane.  

You paled, and opened your mouth to scream. “DEMONS?!!”  

_+_  

You were panicking. This was not happening. You were sent to Hell? Did you die? Demons were all around you, and they looked so scary. Big and demanding presences all over the room.  

There would be pain, and torture. Blood. Again, blood, but this time worse than before. Because a paddling from a human you could take, but what about torture from demons?  

They were  not human . They were evil.  

Lucifer’s wings were huge, and black. Levi had a serpent’s tail, and you pictured it around your neck. Mammon’s chest was bare, marked with white, and he looked so strong. The list went on and on, scarier and scarier, you started to hyperventilate. You barely had a chance to look at anyone else, too frightened to open your eyes.  

“Calm down.”  

The hand on your arm made you scream, and you pushed away whoever touched you. You fell to the floor on your knees, and held your hands over your ears which were flat on your head.  

“She’s shaking, what should we do?” asked Mammon.  

“I believe we should start by shifting back, so she isn’t quite so frightened of us.”  

“Good thinking, Satan,” Beel responded.  

They were talking, but you barely heard them. You rocked yourself, hoping to comfort yourself in the motion.  

There was a rush of air around you, then a pressure over your body, and you moved your hands from your head to grab the fabric. It was a blanket, thin but still soft. You rubbed it, the sensation soothing you a little.  

“Kitten, you can open your eyes now, it’s all right.” Lucifer’s voice rang out.  

You inhaled, exhaled, and did just that. They were normal again. Or rather, disguised as normal.  

There was a hand in your face, and a Kleenex. You took the offered tissue from Asmodeus, and wiped your eyes and nose.  

“W-where am I?”  

“You’re in the Devildom, sweetheart,” Asmo replied with a sort of pitying look.  

After you sat back on the sofa in the corner, blanket secured over you, Lucifer explained what the Devildom was, and who they were, and the entire time you were listening with apt attention. You were so amazed by it all, until he said ‘Demon’s’ again and then you freaked out.  

“W—will you h-hurt me?” you murmured.  

A soft hand on your hair behind your ears, it was Satan standing beside you. He smiled and shook his head. “No, Kitten, we won’t hurt you.”  

You leaned into his touch, and he scratched around your ears. You sighed. That was nice.  

“Are you… g-gonna to keep me?”  

“If that’s what you want.”  

What…  you  want? You got to decide? You swallowed and nodded. “Please. I’d like to stay… masters.”  

They all grinned at you, and cheered.  

“Yes, this is going to be so fun, I’m going to set a beauty routine for us with face masks and everything, oh and your claws are perfect to paint, what do you think of the color pink?”  

“She’s too skinny, we need to feed her more. I’ll look up what cats eat.”  

“Beel, she’s not just a cat, she’s human, too. Look up human world recipes so we don’t poison her.”  

“Oh, right. Thanks, Belphie.”  

“I’m gonna teach her sooo much!”  

“Eew, Mammon, don’t be such a perv.”  

“Oi, Levi! I was talkin’ ‘bout Poker, not anythin’ sexual! Satan, help me out here!”  

“You dug your own grave, Mammon. We all knew you’d be the one.”  

“W-what does that mean!?”  

You giggled into your hands. They were all so cute, and you curled into the blanket and listened to the chaotic brothers argue about what to do with you. For Demons, they acted like normal people. Well, what you remembered a family of normal people acted like.  

Lucifer was watching you, and you looked back at him. He gave you an exasperated look, and you purred into the blanket and sighed.  

This was your home now. These were your Masters. Demons, but still... They were yours.  

[pl-panda]

Damienette Arranged Marriage: Part 1

Okay. I fell into the Maribat AU/Damienette ship hole and I find it quite comfortable down here. But too many fics are the same and I decided to try something else. I am awful at writing romance and prefer action, but alas I will practice on this. It might be awful, but that’s only one more reason to continue writing. I want to evolve. 

NEXT

Credits: Miraculous Ladybug team for the elements I take from MLB show. DC for their characters, @ozmav for the AU, @maribat-archive for giving me access to so many different stories to have take inspirations from and me for the plot. 

Damiennete arranged marriage: Part 1

Marinette slowly opened her eyes. She was confused. Last thing she remembered before blacking out was a sting on the back of her neck. She was just returning from school. It hasn’t been even a week since the ‘Miracle Queen’ incident. For now, the miracle box (now in its new form) and hidden in old phonograph in her room. It was one of parting gifts from Master Fu. He wanted to make sure that she was not in any more trouble.

Oh kwami! What if Hawkmoth figured I am the new guardian. And then he would know I am by extension Ladybug. And then he could get my miraculous. And if he got my miraculous nobody would be able to stop Akuma and he would eventually overpower Chat Noir and then he would get the wish and probably he would wish to conquer the world or even the universe and it would be all my fault.

Her train of thoughts was running several hundred miles per hour until it finally crashed. She moaned. Only then, she finally got the idea to look around. She was in some dark cell. There was only small window, but it was too high for her to reach. The walls were made from large stones that were perfectly polished. There was no way to break them. She turned to the other side and noticed stairs leading to large and heavy metal doors. They were reinforced enough that she doubted anyone could smash them. There was no way out as far as she could figure out.

“I don’t know what to do Tikki… Tikki? Tikki!” Only then it dawned on her that she had no idea where her Kwami was. The sedatives were slowly wearing off, but there was still a lingering dizziness. She had hard time thinking. 

There was no answer. She moved her hand to check if her earrings were in place and she was glad to find them still there. But her Kwami was gone. She had no idea what was going on. If they didn’t take her miraculous, it meant that either they didn’t know she was wearing one or they were after her for some other reason. And for the love of Tikki she could not figure out any other reason why she would find herself in such place except for her being Ladybug. Okay, she might know some celebrities and design for them, but nobody would really bat an eye if someone captured her. Okay, her parents would, but they were not important. They are important to her, but they could never pay a ransom. Now if someone captured Adrien it was another story. He was in fact captured several times, but she wasn’t a famous model…

Her thoughts started to drift into several directions. After her initial panic attack passed, she started to look around her cell more closely. The place looked old, like a dungeon in some castle. There might have been a secret exit like in one of Video Games she liked so much. Or maybe there was some loose screw in the doors… She walked to the large block of metal and tried to analyze its structure. After good fifteen minutes, she gave up. It was impossible to dismantle this from the inside. She turned and noticed that from this height, she could actually look through the window. But what she saw was not really conforming. 

The snow-storm was raging outside. And there were only rocky mountain sides visible. No houses whatsoever. the idea of Akuma attack flashed through her mind, but she dismissed it. There would be some more traces even if she was only some side victim. But at the same time it meant she was no longer in Paris. Someone not only kidnapped her, but also moved her away from her home city. She was in some snowy mountains with no idea how she got there or why was she there. The feeling of powerlessness caught up with her. She curled on her small, uncomfortable bed and started to cry.

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Marinette was awaken by someone turning the key in the doors. She opened her eyes and quickly sat up. Previously, she cried herself to sleep, but now she wanted to be ready. When you spend most of your time as a superhero running over rooftops, even if the skill is magical, you still tend to retain muscle memory after three years of constant training. Every day. For at least an hour. Maybe she was not in peak physical condition, but Marinette was definitely not weak.

A woman walked inside. She was wearing tight black suit with upper part unzipped, revealing some of her skin. She had a sword attached to her back. Her silky brown hair was loose and curly. Her face was flawless. Marinette would call her epitome of beauty. When the woman walked into the light, the girl noticed she carried a holster that probably housed a gun.

A sword and a gun!? What is going on here… 

Luckily, before she could start to panic, the woman sat moved and allowed another person to enter. Marinette used this as an opportunity to try and focus on something else. The man who entered was wearing a loose yellow robes with blue sash. He had typical asian complexion and face, together with mustache and pointy beard like that of Master Fu, except he was actually tall. The man was about three inches taller than the woman.

What really calmed Marinette was that he bowed to her.

“Greetings, Great Guardian. I am sorry we must meet in such circumstances, but the time is of the essence.” The man spoke to her in flawless French. 

Okay. So I am in the Temple of the Order of the Guardians. Marinette calmed herself, but then she started to panic again. Oh my Kwami! I am in the Temple. Temple is in Tibet. I am in Tibet. I am in Tibet! That’s not in France! She took three deep breath before looking at them again. She bowed to the man. 

“Uh… Hi?”

“I know this is confusing, but we are in dire need of your help Great Guardian.” The man spoke again. Marinette turned to the woman who was with him, but she had expression so emotionless that one could mistake her for wax statue.

“What do you need of me? And why do you call me the ‘Great Guardia’? I am still just learning…”

“Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Wang Fu did not reveal to you who he was?” The man in robes was confused.

“No…?”

“Before the temple fell, he was training to one day lead the Order of the Guardians. He would become the next Master. We awaited his return after the Temple was restored, but only thing we received was a message stating that he named you his successor, losing memory in the process.”

“But… I thought he never finished his training…” Marinette was slowly feeling overwhelmed with this situation.

“Yes, but sadly during the attack the previous Great Guardian surrendered his position so that Wang Fu could restart our Order. Now you inherited this position.”

“Enough chit-chat.” The woman finally spoke. She sounded irritated.

“Yes. We need to proceed with the Ceremony.” The man agreed.

“What Ceremony? What’s going on?” The girl stiffened and took defensive stance.

“I am sorry, Great Guardian, but for Order to survive, we must take drastic steps.”

The woman snapped her finger and two man dressed all black with masks covering everything but eyes entered the room. They were holding ropes. 

“Wait! What are you doing!?”

“The order has fallen. Since the Temple was restored, we’ve been under constant attack. For the greater good, I had to make a deal. An alliance that will allow us to still guard the Miraculi. The League of Assassins would eventually win the siege. We did not have resources… I am sorry Great Guardian. I have failed.”

“Wha…!” Marinette had no idea what was going on. But when the two masked men approached her closer, she didn’t stand there passively. With a roundhouse kick she knocked one of them instantly and then a quick punch in solar plexus took the other one. She dashed between the two remaining opponents and tried to lunge for the doors, only to be stopped by more assassins. Behind her walked the woman and aimed her gun at her.

“Sorry girl, but it’s too important. You will do as commanded. It’s for the best anyway.” Marinette wanted to fight, but then something hit the back of her head. She saw black spots before passing away. 

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This time, Marinette woke up tied in a large hall in front of stone stairs. She was kneeling and couldn’t move. This habit of blacking out was really annoying. She noticed a golden cage next to her with Tikki inside. The parisian hero wanted to call to her friend, but a sound to her left got her attention. She spotted a boy with ruffy black hair and deep green eyes. He was also tied and kneeling. He wore black armor with golden ornaments and red cape. He did have a sword at his belt, but there was no way to reach it with hands behind his back. If only she could move closer to him…

“Oh great! The sleeping princess has awaken. Now maybe my mother will finally tell me what is going on!” He snarled at her in English before looking up. Marinette followed his gaze and saw two people appearing at the top of the stairs. One of the Guardians in his robes and the woman with gun and sword. She was holding a richly decorated cup.

“For centuries, the league of Assassins battled with the Order of the Guardians.” The woman was speaking in some strange language that Marinette didn’t know how she understood. “Neither side could get any advantage. But then, the Order fell. They were wiped out by their own creation. And now, after almost two hundred years, a great magic restored them, but in weaken state. They knew that they would not be able to hold us without their strongest warriors, so they suggested peace. A unification. Under common leadership, two organizations will thrive once more!”

“To ensure that neither side will exploit the other, “The Guardian continued where Assassin dropped. “Following the old tradition we shall bind the ruling dynasties. For now, through this union we ensure alliance and truce, but once they fully assume their roles, they shall together lead a new organization, stronger and more powerful than any before.”

Marinette looked in the eyes of the Guardian. Her emotions were bubbling and she felt betrayed. Her mentor lost his memories not so long ago, leaving her with all the burden by herself. The only one with who she could now talk about it was her Kwami. Now, for a small moment she hoped that the Order would help her. That with their assistance they could defeat Hawkmoth, but they instead kidnapped her and now they want to marry her to complete stranger. She took one more look at the boy. he was frowning and trying to get out of the bonds, but there was no way. Tikki next to her was also tied and there were some runes on the cage. She was not sure, but her instincts told her this was designed to keep Kwami bound at least for some time. 

“Don’t worry Marinette.It will be alright.” Tikki tried to conform the girl, but she didn’t sound really all that convincing. Instead, the sadness, anger and much more different negative emotions overcame her. She zoomed out and closed herself in. Tears were flowing down her cheeks.

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Damian really did not like this day. He woke up in this mess, tied, dressed in the official armor that he used to wear as an Heir to the position of Demon’s Head. The feeling of dizziness quickly passed, but only after his mother started talking the pieces clicked. He remembered the tales about the Order of the Guardians. He heard on how they disappeared long ago. Looks like they returned. He gave a side-glance to the girl. She was his age, dressed in a dark gray blazer with rolled-up sleeves; the inside of the blazer was lined in white with pink polka dots and it had black trimming. Underneath, she wore a white t-shirt with black stitching and a flower design below the collar. The design itself had pink flowers and black leaves. She wore pink rolled up jeans and pink ballet flats with dark red soles. She had eyeliner around her eyes and sports black earrings. It was miracle her makeup did not smear around her face. He then took a closer look at her. If he was to guess, she was slightly smaller than him. She had hair in color of midnight blue which worked well with her bluebell eyes. Her hair was pulled back into two pigtails, but they were messed and unruly, probably because of conditions she was kept in. Internally he growled. She was just a girl, tossed into it. The small cage next to her did not escape her attention. The small creature that looked a bit like some ladybug was trying to give the girl some comfort. She looked unimpressive for someone who would one day lead organization that could rival the League of Assassins. Or be my wife… The idea sounded ridiculous in his head, but he didn’t voice it. As strange as it may be, if he didn’t hurry it would happen. The tie was strong and tight. Strong rope was locking his hand in place in such position that even if he dislocated his thumb, it would still not help. He was completely immobilized.

Marriage ceremony in the League was always short. Thalia spoke some words, then the Guardian added some more and she walked downstairs with the cup. Damian noticed green substance in it. Instantly, his stomach rumbled. It was water from Lazarus Pit. It could only mean that some dark magic was involved this time. Usually it was just a wine, with occasional dose of poison if his grandfather demanded it, either to test them or straight up terminate. They had to drink it all between the two of them. 

“May this union prosper between you, your families and friends. In this, we take the first step in uniting the two powers, for you and your descendants to lead.” Talia spoke in the language of the League. Damian was actually surprised when the Guardian was also speaking in this language during the ceremony, but he had no idea who else was there. He couldn’t really turn around to look at the audience. 

“By the power vested in me by the Order of Guardians, I bless the union and hope that you will find peace and happiness with each other.” Marinette was sobbing quietly, long since drained of all tears. Damian scowled. She seemed weak. He felt the need to protect her and yet he could do nothing. It irritated him almost as much as when Drake painted his outfit black and replaced the Robin symbol with Coffee Bean. For someone constantly on caffeine he could run surprisingly well. 

First, the two adults walked to Marinette. She was in too much shock to respond. Her whole life, her whole future, everything she knew was right now crumbling. She would never marry Adrien. She would never even confess her love to him. Her mind kept creating different scenarios about what would happen after the ceremony. Would she be shipped to the Guardian Temple. Was this the Temple? Would she have to live with the League of Assassins? Maybe in addition to marriage they would make the boy live with Guardians while she lived here. Or there. She had no idea where she was. How would they treat her. She was their leader, but yet she felt more like a slave, forced to do what he is told. She didn’t even notice when they put the chalice to her lips and make her drink some of the substance. She swallowed the green liquid and felt it spread warm through her, revitalizing each bone in her body. She felt a tingle of pain, in every part of her body, but it was only momentary.

Damian planned on resisting to the best of his abilities. Maybe spill the Lazarus Water from the Chalice or headbutt his mother into unconsciousness. He was mildly surprised when she handled the cup to the Guardian and leaned to him, whispering in Arabic. “If you try anything funny, we will kill this girl and then murder every single guardian in existence. for once just do as you are told.” He stiffened, quickly looking at the girl who was now sitting a bit more calm, but still anxious. He did not want her to die because of him, but allowing the League of Assassins to get even more power was also bad. He had to make a choice quick. The guardian approached him with the chalice and slowly lifted it to his lips. Damian looked at the girl once more and felt some pain in his heart. She didn’t deserve any of this. She looked so… normal. With a sight, he accepted the other half of the liquid, allowing it to travel through him and revitalize his body into the peak condition, fixing any damage he might have had.

With that, the ceremony ended. there were no more words, no more nothing. Some of the mooks untied him and Marinette. Talia walked to the scared girl.

“Now. I hope you will be good for my son. And neither of you ever think of breaking this.” She threatened them. “If you do, the League will return to war with the Order of the Guardians. And you will both be killed.” She let the threat hang in the air before walking away. The Guardian left already, leaving Marinetter alone with Damian. 

“I am so sorry they dragged you into this!” She started to apologize to him and trying to hug him. His instincts told him to push her away, but he was too stunned to follow on it. This girl was actually apologizing him for her life being ruined? Just where did his mother find her?

[simsadventures]

Not Me: Chapter 1: Sweet, Sweet Life

Summary: You always wanted the perfect life- great husband, fulfilling job, and overall happiness. What if you can’t have even a bit of your fairytale?

Warnings: angst, swearing, implied smut, memories (in italics)

Word Count: 2074

A/N: The first ever chapter of Not Me is finally here! Im so excited about this story, and I seriously can’t wait for you all to read it. Let me know what you think so far, and what do you expect from this little story? The ride has only just started, and it will get spicier as we go along, I promise xx

Series Masterlist __ Masterlist

The sun was shining through the blinds, and you groaned loudly. Another day in your personal nightmare. You tried to snuggle into the pillows harder, willing your sleep to come again and take you for at least another few hours, so that you wouldn’t have to face the world. And by the world, you meant your husband, James.

Just the thought of him made a shiver run down your spine, and not the good kind. You didn’t even know how you got to that position. There used to be times when James was all you could think of.

You were at high school together, buddies, thanks to your fathers owning a publishing company together. You were a freshman, and he was a senior, but that didn’t stop you from spending a lot of time together. You used to piss off your fathers too often for your own good, whenever there was a banquet or some other fancy shit, you and Bucky would always find a way to make it at least a bit enjoyable for the two of you.

You had each other to hold on to, and that was enough. You both went to a different university, Bucky attending Yale, while you went to Brown. It was during this time that you grew apart, having different goals in life, and life choices as well. But your crush was still strong as ever at that time.

James had this ability to draw people to them. You could even pinpoint the exact thing that made him so charming because there were so many of them. His eyes, his deep, gruff voice, his physique, which would get any girl to her knees, or his charm. But you knew he wasn’t interested in you that way.

While you saw Bucky partying every second possible, you were more the studying type. Not that you didn’t have your fair share of wild parties, making you wake up in Canada instead of your home. But you were a passionate reader and student, and so when the crucial times came, you knew how to use your brain. And form what you heard, with Bucky’s party habits, he had to pay somebody to take all his exams. That was the only plausible option in your mind.

You only saw each other during summers, when you both worked for Barnes&Clark, your fathers’ company. And while Bucky was much more interested in all the sexy secretaries, you were impressed by all it entailed to be a businesswoman. You sat with Mr Barnes and your father in their meetings, they even seemed to listen to you while you spoke about your ideas of new ways of getting books to young people.

It was close to your graduation that your life turned completely, and, at the time, you thought for the better.

There was a knock on your door, and you frowned. It was Thursday evening, and you weren’t expecting anyone. What was even weirder that the person was already in the building, without ringing the bell from the front door. You cautiously went and looked through the peep-hole, only to be utterly surprised.

You opened the door, a confused frown on your face.

“Bucky. To what do I owe the pleasure?” You asked him, stepping aside, to let him inside.

He didn’t say anything, just stepped in and waited for you to take him further inside your apartment. When you led you to the sofa and sat down, you raised your eyebrows, indicating that he really should start explaining what it was he wanted.

“Look, Y/N. We’ve known each other for a long time, and I’ve been thinking, recently, and I reached a decision in which, I hope, you’ll support me.”

You still didn’t say anything, not sure where he was going with it. You haven’t heard from him in months, and so it was peculiar as to why he suddenly came knocking on your door.

Without any other word, he got on his knee and pulled out a white velvet box from his pocket. Your eyes were suddenly the size of a cartoon character, and you were pretty sure they now occupied most of your face.

“W-what? Bucky are you drunk? Or are you fatally ill? What the hell are you talking about?” You asked him, on the verge of a mental breakdown. This couldn’t be happening. Sure, you liked him and sure, you did try to write Y/N Barnes a few too many times before. But you were both young, 24 and 27 years old, and you sure as hell weren’t ready for marriage.

“I prioritise doll. I know it sounds crazy, but think about it. I know you have been single for far too long, and you’re never comfortable around any other guy than me. I’ve had my fair share of fun, and now I’m ready to settle down. And with whom better than you? We used to be best friends, and I think you never really grow from that kind of bond. Just think about it, will you?”

You were looking in those icy blue eyes, and for a weird reason, you saw the desperation in them and a hint of anger. You couldn’t be too sure, because you haven’t seen him for so long, but he had one thing right. You never really grow out of that bond. You thought he did, but obviously, he was thinking about you as much as you were thinking about him.

“I’ll need some time, and I think we should spend some time together if you want to marry me, don’t you think?”

A flash of something you weren’t able to recognise ran through his face, but as soon as it appeared, it was gone, and you weren’t really sure what it was.

“Sure, can I stay tonight and we can watch a movie, or something, huh?” He asked, without a hint of a smile, and you enthusiastically nodded. After all, this was something you dreamed of quite often, to be completely honest.

It went like this for a while, you and Bucky spending evenings together, and after one particularly fun evening, full of gin and tonics and tangled sheets, you finally gave him your answer.

“I will marry you Bucky, if it’s still something you want, I think we could be really good together,” you whispered against his naked chest, laying almost on top of him in your bed. He hummed, patted your shoulder and got up from the bed.

You looked at him confused, trying to determine if you said something wrong, but he only pulled the velvet box out of the pants that were laying abandoned on the floor and slipped the massive diamond ring on your finger.

“Good. Now sleep so we can plan the damn thing,” he said in a hushed voice, got dressed, and left you laying on the bed, naked and exhausted from the amazing sex you just had, confused as hell.

And that’s how your marriage pretty much started. Despite Bucky leaving that day, you were pretty excited about the whole ordeal, and so was your and Bucky’s family. The only unexcited party seemed to be Bucky, but you thought it was just his face, nothing serious.

But after a year of marriage, you realised that it probably wasn’t just his face. When he was around his Uni friends or his colleagues, his demeanour changed drastically.

He was joyful and funny, and always the life of the party. But when you two were alone, he was brooding and looked pissed 99% of the time.

You thought you’d have everything you ever wished for. Happy family, amazing husband, and a dream job. But things aren’t always the way we want them.

Your amazing husband rarely ever spoke to you, and when he did, it was to point out a flaw on you.

You shouldn’t talk so loudly. Your language isn’t lady-like. I don’t like it when you wear sweatpants, I think you should look nice even at home. This steak isn’t medium-rare. This make-up is too much. Stand and be pretty. Blah blah blah.

You tried to do all he said, trying to be the best wife for him, because you still had the idea of Bucky loving you, and wanting to spend his life with you. But every sentence like this created a gash in your heart, and by the first anniversary, you thought your heart was just a shredded piece of muscle, unable to function any more.

What broke you down to your knees, was, however, a different kind of message, delivered to you by Bucky and your father.

“James will lead the company, he has most of the rights to Barnes&Clark, and we think it would be great if you were a stay-at-home wife like you were supposed to be from the very beginning. Look, Y/N, you are a woman, and those shouldn’t be heads of the company. You understand that, don’t you?”

You were in total and complete shock. He trained you your whole life, to be the CEO, or at least the head of the publishing, while somebody else would take care of the numbers. But now he was telling you that your dream was vanishing right in front of your eyes.

“But, but, dad, I thought you-“

“How about you stop thinking and just be a pretty thing, sweetie?” Your father asked you mockingly, and to your utter surprise, Bucky laughed as well, patting your father’s shoulder.

You wanted to run away in tears, because every time you tried to speak up, either your father or Bucky would shush you. By the time the meeting ended, your eyes were filled with tears, but you didn’t want either of the men seeing this weak side of yours.

When you left the company’s building with Bucky by your side, you were shaking with both sadness and anger.

“Are you seriously with him on that, Bucky?” You asked, desperation evident in your voice. But the look Bucky gave you made you regret that you even asked him anything.

“Of course, I agree with him. You have to take care of our household, and not be busy with business. Oh, and, by the way, I would prefer it if you called me James, from now on.”

It felt like he pushed a dagger deep inside your guts. He let everyone call him Bucky, he would always say that it just felt better when the people around him called him Bucky. And now he wanted you, his wife, to call him James?

You sighed again and sat up in your bed. Ever since you moved in, you had separate bedrooms, James telling you he needed his rest to run the company. And even if you wanted to protest in the very beginning, you gave up. Like on many things in your life at the moment.

You used to have dreams, you used to be ambitious, but this life took everything from you. You rarely ever had sex with James- he would always tell you how tired he was and that you should be tired as well. And if you weren’t, it meant you weren’t doing enough through the day.

You learned how to cook, how to bake, how to sew, how to have the perfect garden, but it still wasn’t impressive enough for James to spare a kind word for you.

And neither did you father. He would always only remind you to be a good wife to James and to leave the rest to the men, and by your first anniversary, you believed all of those things, your self-respect pretty much non-existing.

You got up from the bed and headed towards the closet, to put on something representative to not give James any reason to pester you. You took a quick shower and put on some make-up, knowing full well that James was against the natural beauty look. You put on high-waisted wide pants and a blouse, trying no to look too shabby even if you were only going down to the kitchen to make James a breakfast.

When you came into the kitchen, he was already there, sitting by the table, reading news on his phone. He didn’t even spare you a look, and you sighed, walking towards the kitchen isle. It would be just another day in your hell, and you couldn’t do anything about it. Or, at least, you thought you couldn’t.

/Next Chapter >

Not Me:

@jennmurowski13 @lovely-geek @vogueworthy-barnes @veronawrites @loser-alert @trumpettay @thesoldierrogers @girlbehindthecameraposts @little-smurf @jesseswartzwelder @fuckwhateverfuck @learisa @karla-silva @blowing-mikey @afterlaughter27 @93generation @ungratefultroll @maybeisthemoon @greenprisca @geeksareunique @champagnesugamama @hailqueenconquer @grincheveryday @mc225g @thatweirdwalangpake @neerness

Bucky Taglist

@this-kitten-is-smitten @paradisiacalsparks @crazybutconfidentaf @owlyannah @lassini @s-trawberryv-eins @reniescarlett

Marvel Taglist

@voltage-my2dlove @kneel-begyourpardon @lumar014 @ptrs-prkrs

Forever Tag:

@eileenalone @sasbb23 @p8tn0lish @coffeebooksandfandom @waiting4inspiration @caswinchester2000 @mogaruke @justthatfangirloverthere @mushyjellybeans @livsheph @sebbbystaaan @notyourtypicalrose

If your name is crossed out, tumblr won’t let me tag you for some reason, I’m sorry.

If you’d like to be tagged comment/message/send an ask. If you like the story, please reblog :) any comments are appreciated, even the critical ones. Always a space to get better, so let me know what you guys think.

[a-forgotten-spirit]

Love Isn’t An Illusion (7)

Pairing: Todoroki x Bakugou, Todoroki x Reader x Bakugou, VERY SLOW BUILD

Summary:  Getting supplies for the camping trip with some fun rivalry swimming.

Words: +-7600 (I have problems)

Warnings:  bad parenting, overbearing parents, overthinking, talking about bathing suits, fear of public places, over planning, wearing a skirt, anxiety, protective Shoji, being noticed by fans, social metres, explaining swimwear, saying you have a chest (sorry if you dont, itty bitty titties are good too!), explanations of clothing, the league, undressing and people looking at you (not sexual), being self conscious, overly competitive, 

Tagged:  @kittycatspervertedheart​ @lemorrite​ @gwendlynn​ @marleps​ @thicctati2​ @saitamastamaticsoup​ @succulent-momma​ @aurorahoneybuns​ @imjusttireddudes​ @misconceptualised​ @ochabby​ @katsukisuwus​ @gayverlinq​ @star-witchs-blog​ @fallbb123 @icyhotpie​ @kyrah-williams​

A/N:  I wrote this for the fans. I do not own My Hero academia or the characters, I don’t own most of the plot for this story, I had watched the show and re-written the dialogue and plot as if the reader was the main character. Everything is centred around the reader. Please comment, makes me happy. Ask if you wish to be tagged. Patreon is still in the works as I’m not confident to do it however, for now I am doing commission stories if anyone is interested

Masterlist

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6

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Chapter 7

Walking into the house my mother walked up to me hands on her hips and she looked ready for a fight. I was tired and just wanted to go lay down. I wasn’t in the mood to deal with her right now or at any given point if I was honest but after the exam I had, I quite enjoyed turning my brain off for a few days. 

“Who dropped you off” she inquired immediately. I sighed and hoisted my bag onto my back more comfortably as I looked up to see her. My head was pounding and Bakugou's jumper was so warm and fluffy I just wanted to go to sleep. 

“Friends from school” I answered, my heart did the weird thing where it decided to not work and beat quicker then it should. I was there with my friends. Todoroki was always ready to help me move around and helped me through the panic attack while Bakugou had brought me food and gave me his jumper. I was thankful for both. Her hand moved in a continuous motion as if to continue “Bakugou and Todoroki” I answered. 

“Todoroki, like Endeavor Todoroki,” she asked and I nodded slowly “His son, with the fire and ice. You’re friends with his son” I nodded again. She’s never been interested in heroes, at least whenever I talked about them “Oh darling look at you. He is a fine choice to swoon. Money and looks, he will make a great friend. I have to meet his father” 

I was blank. She had to be joking right. I did not just fight ten Pro heroes for my mother to go on about how I'm friends with someone as if I had something to gain “I’m friends with Todoroki for Todoroki, not Endeavor. I do not like Endeavor and I never will. I like Todoroki for who he is not who he is related to” I said slowly as if I had to sound it out. 

“Oh sure” she huffed and I knew this wouldn’t leave so I left it, she could think all she wanted, it meant nothing to me. “Bakugou, Bakugou” she whispered and hand on her chin. What was she doing? “Bakugou like the fashion designers” my head fell as I sighed out and shook my head “You are going for the top aren’t you. Just like your mum” 

“Ok, whatever. Think what you want but I like them for them” she continued to go on as I shook my head again and then walked away up the stairs and into my room. Placing my phone on to charge I wiggled my arms into the jumper and unzipped my hero costume before falling into bed and falling asleep. 

-

This morning was long, filled with questions about the boys and what they did, who I liked more. I didn’t answer a single one. I was not in the mood. I pulled on my uniform folding Bakugous’ jumper and left it on my bed. If he didn’t want me to keep it I could say I just forgot it, easy. I chose to pull on the UA jumper I had specifically asked for and then I was ready for school. My mother offered to drive, I accepted and put in my music to ignore her. Headphones covering my head and ears. Arriving I thanked her and I was off to class, as I was walking down the hall I could hear Kaminari yelling, he didn’t pass. 

Aizawa walked in and I quickly followed “Sorry” I could see the looks but one glare from Aizawa and everyone was quiet. I made my way to my seat quickly, sitting down and placing my headphones in my bag out of the way, looking up and paying full attention. 

“Morning, unfortunately, there are a few of you who did not pass your final exams. So when it comes to the training camp in the woods” he paused then his head raised a wide smile as his eyes did the same “Everyone is going” that was good. Kaminairi and Mina looked quite upset. They all asked if he was being honest and that they got to come with the rest of us “Yeah. The good news is no one bombed the written exam. Five failed the practical badly. Two teams of course and Sero failed as well” I could hear a quiet yell. I forgot he got caught with Midnight and fell asleep the whole time. “Allow me to explain, the practical the teachers made sure to leave a way for the students to win” my eyes fell and I shook my head “Except Y/N” he nodded and I looked away. They did no such thing. “Otherwise you never would have stood a chance” I rolled my eyes. 

“I think I did just fine thank you” I whispered and played with the ends of my sleeve. I spent three days in the hospital to win that goddamned test. I knew some people heard that at the little chuckles around me. 

“We were interested in observing how each of you approached the task at hand. The training camp will focus on strength” this was going to be a long camp, my head rested on my palm as I looked to Aizawa. I need to work on harnessing my quirk and not passing out every time I go overboard. “Those who failed will need those lessons the most, we were never going to separate you” leave it to the teachers to absolutely scare everyone in the class for no reason “That was just a logical deception we used” his smile was bright, he was quite proud of himself. 

“He tricked us all, I should have expected this” Iida voiced I turned seeing him quickly lunge up from his seat “Mr Aizawa this is the second time you’ve lied to us aren’t you afraid we will lose faith in you” he was standing straight his hand up in the air as he yelled. He had a point but I don’t think the teacher cared. 

“That’s a good point, I'll consider it” No he won’t, he enjoyed making us stress and try our best “But I wasn’t lying to you about everything” this man was full of surprises and it was making my head fuzzy. “Failure is failure” I smiled so not a topic for me. “We’ve prepared extra lessons for the five of you” the mood dropped drastically amongst the five. “Frankly they’ll be far tougher than what you’ll face at summer school” at least he was honest. 

The rest of the day went by as usual and I talked to Bakugou and Todoroki mostly a few people coming up to me to give their congratulations and a few telling me they thought I had died when I just fell. I laughed at that comment. 

“I had about a hundred thoughts playing at once so I overworked my brain” I smiled and scratched the back of my head, a nervous habit I picked up when I was younger. I saw confused faces. “Each illusion is a single thought if they act differently so by the end of the match I had about a hundred independent thoughts going through my head at once” 

I was bombarded with questions as I answered them without giving too much information away. I had Mina hugging me tightly at one point in tears about how worried she was, I swear my hair was wet by the end of it. I smiled, genuinely. I did have the best class anyone could ask for. This was one of the first days I wasn’t rushing to study or do anything, it felt nice and I had friends.

“We’re at the training camp for a full week” Iida readout, he seemed shocked and I nodded to myself. Another week without my parents, what more could I wish for. My parents had signed off on it earlier in the year not caring for what I did. 

“No way, I’ll need a bigger suitcase” Midoriya pondered and I thought to my belongings. I had a big enough suitcase. When I got along with my parents we had gone on a few holidays so I just had to find it. 

“No kidding, I don’t even have a bathing suit” the thought sent shivers down my spine. I would be fearful to get into the water knowing if Kaminari sneezed I could be electrocuted and die. He had control but still, it was worrying. I didn’t often go swimming so I too would need to buy one. “Guess I need to buy some stuff” 

“Guys since we are off tomorrow and we’re finished exams I have the best idea” Torus’ happy voice sang out her uniform moving indicating she raised her arms in excitement. Everyone seemed interested now. “Why doesn’t class 1-A go shopping together” it wasn’t a bad idea. I preferred to go shopping with people I knew then alone I had to admit I feared to be alone in public places just as much as the next person. 

“Hey yeah, we’ve never hung out as a class before” Kaminari smiled as Uraraka nodded enthusiastically. I could hear everyone agreeing and getting more excited about the weekend's events. I too was quite excited though, did they mean everyone in the class? 

 “Bakugou, see you there, right” Leave it to Kirishima to always ask if the explosive blonde would attend a get-together. I like that Bakugou had friends and seemed to get along with people, even if it was only a select few.  

“I can’t think of anything more annoying” his eyes were closed and face distasteful as he grimaced at the mere thought of seeing anyone in school out in public. I smiled and rolled my eyes silently as he walked off from the group hands in his pockets and back slouched. 

Everyone was talking and I smiled happily though I could hear Midoriya ask Todoroki if he was going to join the class on our little adventure “I visit my mum on days off” he smiled, small but it was there. Did he live with his dad but not his mum? Maybe they were divorced or something. I was sad he wouldn’t be there but I could understand why. I didn’t blame him. 

“Party poopers, don’t you ever get tired of being so serious” Mineta shouted, I would’ve liked both Bakugou and Todoroki to come but they had their things on. I had made friends with the class so hopefully, I wouldn’t be left to my own devices but if so I was more than capable of shopping on my own. 

“What about you Y/N” I turned to look at Jirou who had asked the question “Are you going to come” she smiled and I saw a few of the other girls smile in response. I was being offered, I had friends. I would never regret coming to this school. 

“Yeah” I nodded and stood from my desk patting my skirt down to my legs “I need some swimwear and hiking clothes” I scratched the back of my head nervously “I live in jumpers and long pants so I’ll need some outdoors clothes” I didn’t leave the house much before this year. I stayed in my room and played games now I was studying non-stop. 

“We can help with that” Uraraka put her fist in the air and I nodded unbeknownst that a few boys were more than interested in the conversation I was having. “You’ll be an outdoors person in no time” I laughed rather loudly and nodded. 

“I look forward to it” and I wasn’t lying I was beyond excited for this camp, the whole thing a new experience and I hadn’t gone on ‘holiday’ in quite some time if I was honest. 

We all walked out of the room and set up a group chat for the weekend, I waved everyone goodbye and began my trek home. Headphones on and music blaring to calm myself through the walk, it was long but when I arrived home I could see my parents were home. I walked up to the two of them turning down my music and pushing the headset from my head to my neck. 

“I’m going out with the class over the week to go shopping for the camp” I stated, they didn’t care what I did. I could see my mother think for a moment and then nodded, remembering something. 

“Yes you did make it into that camp, my bank is still connected to your card, get everything you need. A week was it” she asked not looking up, they had no concept of money because they had so much. I didn’t spend a lot of money but I did need things for the week trip. I nodded. “Ok” then I was off to my room. 

I searched my room for my suitcase, it was just a plain black hard suitcase that was big enough for a week's trip. Suitcase, done. I got out my phone and began to make a list of the things I would need. It was long but I wanted everything to be perfect and if I had no purchase limit why not spoil myself for once. 

Once the list was done I looked at the group chat and saw all the details Iida had set up sending a quick “Thank you” and mentioning Iida I was off and ready for bed. I had had dinner between rummaging through my room and making my list. 

-

Waking up the next morning I did my usual routine and stretched, I felt so relaxed no studying for me though I liked that I was still busy in away. I liked to keep myself busy. When you do things for so long and then stop you have to find something to replace it. I walked out into my room in my underwear and sighed, what was I going to wear? What was everyone going to wear? We were going to the shopping centre so casual but something I could easily take off if I needed to try things on. I laughed, I could use my illusions to see how they would look. Cute it was. 

I opened my wardrobe searching through my long-sleeved shirts until I found a black long-sleeved shirt with holes in the sleeves held together by an F/C lace-like strip that crossed over each other to the bottom of the sleeve. Short black skirt with my shirt tucked into baggily. I moved to my accessories drawers and opened it to see my belts. My F/C belt would go perfect matching the strips of lace, I placed it through the hoops in the skirt and smiled. Some simple boots and the look was complete. I brushed my hair and placed my little backpack on my back. Pull of a portable charger, my wallet and just my everyday things. Walking out I walked past my parents and I was off on my adventure sending a message I would be a few minutes late due to buses not matching up for me. 

 I hopped off the bus saying a quick thank you before I left to go into the centre, turning on my phone one last time to check I had the right information. I looked up and saw the group then looked down, was I too casual? I began to panic and shook my head. These were my friends, these were my people. 

“Hey guys, sorry for being a little late” I called out and watched as they turned to me smiling lighting up and waves being thrown though I didn’t miss the double takes I was receiving from a few of them. I walked up to them and stood in the little group we had formed. 

Everyone seemed quite excited but Midoriya was looking around in awe and muttering to himself about how all the shops captured almost every single quirk known. I laughed and felt my arm get hooped to Mina who was jumping around and full of energy like usual. I smiled. 

“You’re going to scare the children” Tokoyami blandly stated and shook his head crossing his arms in fake seriousness, at least, I thought it was fake. “Stop” I heard a few laughs as Midoriya blushed in embarrassment. 

“Wow, aren’t they UA students” a bystander called out and I turned to see a little group of people forming, this was a downfall of being in the top school but there was nothing we could do. I was going to become a hero and having fans was part of that. 

“1-A” another called out as I looked to the three men looking overly excited to see the group in public. After the sports festival, I couldn’t blame them but still yelling across the mall hallway was a lot for my anxiety. I hadn’t even thought about if anyone recognised us.

“I saw them on TV” so my accusations were right, they had seen us at the festival most likely and then the thought of my video saving people and Hero Killer Stain came into my mind. I gripped the straps of my backpack, Mina having left my side a few minutes ago. I moved to stand behind Shoji who immediately moved to shield me from the view.

Even with all the people talking and fanning Jiro and Momo were just talking about what they needed to get and see, they chose to go together. They were such good friends. I smiled at the interaction. 

“You ok,” Shoji asked his mask moving slightly with the question. I nodded and saw a few people turned to look at my still slightly shielded figure. I flushed and turned away from the looks. 

“I’m just anxious about people looking at me” he nodded and rubbed my back to calm me down “Sorry about that” I could see people shake their hands and smile, it made me feel a lot better. 

“We all have our weaknesses, though you seem so confident when fighting” Kirishima pointed out and again they nodded in agreement. My hand came to my chin to think, they were right. 

“I’m far too competitive to lose it just comes off as confidence” I laughed and scratched the back of my head my cheeks reddening at the confession “I’m one of the most competitive people you’ll ever meet. One of the downfalls of my personality” I nodded and heard a few laughs in response. 

When everyone was done saying what they needed or wanted for the trip Kirishima spoke up “Why don’t we split up and look around, we can meet up here when we are done. It’s noon so let’s say we all meet up here at three” I heard a chorus of sure's and yes’ as we all broke off.

I walked off with Shoji and Tokoyami having asked if I could tag along to the supplies store. I said I’d meet up with the girls later so I could buy some swimwear with them. We were talking and walking around until we made it to the store. Shoji grabbing a basket for us. I had moved my headphones to my bag but when I walked I could hear the keychains bounce. 

“What do you need Y/N,” Tokoyami asked and Shoji came back into the conversation from looking around. I hummed for a second taking out my phone and unlocking the device showing them both a photo. 

“I wanted to buy this, It’s a PowerPoint that has four docks for plugs and then three USB hubs. Just in case there aren't enough powerpoints I thought this would be good to bring” I explained and then pulled the phone back scrolling down “It says this store has them but I’ve never been here so I might have to ask someone” I whispered looking back up to the boys. 

“I didn’t even know they had those kinds of things but that is a very good idea” Shoji nodded impressed with the find and I handed him my phone saying to scroll as they also had others he might be interested in. 

“Yeah Y/N has a good point, we have no idea where we are going and it would be good to be prepared for anything” Tokoyami nodded and moved to look at the phone as well “They are very practical” he added and I nodded. “Anything else,” he asked my phone being handed back to me. 

“A flashlight maybe, I don’t know where we are and if I have to go to the bathroom in the middle of nowhere I would like to know where I am going” a hum from Tokoyami and a firm agreeing nod from Shoji we began our quest for the items. 

It was an enjoyable trip as we rushed through each aisle and tried to find the products. The workers had told us isle five near the back to the left though all three of us stared at the shelf. “Are you guys seeing something I’m not?” I asked, turning to them. 

“No” Shoji shook his head and then tilted to shake his head, “They said isle five” we all looked up, we were in that aisle. “To the back” we were to the back of the isle “On the left” his voice went to nothing as I moved to crouch down. 

I moved a few boxes looking at the signs and then I saw them “Found them” I called out and heard a sigh of relief as I leaned forward to grab them from the back of the shelf, there were three left. I hugged them to my chest. “There’s three left” I sighed and moved to put them in the basket “No one in the class can get them” I smirked and we all laughed at the situation of us being overly prepared. 

Moving onto finding flashlights and a few other things including bug spray and a travel utility kit. “What about portable charges, there may not even be electricity. We could be camping” Tokoyami spoke up and I shrugged nodding. 

“Good point, we have no idea where we are going. I have one but when I was looking for the ports I saw one that can charge your phones up to four times in one charge” they were both interested in this new information as I showed them my phone again. “It’s pretty cheap too, sales” I smiled. We were off again looking for this device. Finding them we added them to the basket and we were leaving the store, finally. We paid for our things. I put my things in my bag and we were off once more. “Kaminari and Mina are picking out swimwear if you wanna come” 

“I need something to fit my arms, hopefully, they’ll have something” Shoji nodded as Tokoyami looked less than comfortable at the idea of trying on swimwear. I smiled and looked up the store. 

“Hey Tokoyami” his eyes turned to my own and I showed him the picture of the pitch-black swimwear set that was long-sleeved and came up his neck and down his legs. “They have a black pair that covers your whole body” I sang with a smile. 

“I guess I do need a swim set” he crossed his arms as we made our way to the store, keeping our chatter casual and easy. I put my phone away as we came into the store and met up with the two, Mineta and Kirishima had joined them. 

“Hey, guys” Kirishima waved smiling widely, happily. I waved back and we all began to browse. Mina and I moved over to the women's section even though the rash shirts in the men's section were looking more than appealing. 

Mina and I began to look through the swimwear as I sighed out, there was far too many to look through. “What do you usually wear in the water” she bounced over happily already holding a few things to try on. I, on the other hand, had nothing. 

“I don’t go swimming” I could swim quite well my parents have cared for me not drowning to get me a lesson at a young age. Though I didn’t go swimming often, we didn’t have a pool and I was very focused on studying to get into UA from a young age. 

“What’s a colour you like,” she asked and began to go through the swimwear I was looking at “This is just all shirts” she whispered more to herself then I as I nodded and she smiled “You’ll have to buy a bikini to go underneath as well” I hadn’t even thought about that. 

“I like F/C and black and yeah I do need to get a bikini” I sighed and put my head back, this was a lot for my social metre to take, my body anxious but Minas’ bubbly personality was helping my anxiety lessen. Taking out my phone I sent out a message to both Bakugou and Todoroki asking if they needed anything while I was out.

“Already got everything” was the message from Bakugou simple and easy then as I was about to click out “Thanks though” I smiled and was about to send a reply when the phone vibrated again “You should plan next time idiot” of course he couldn’t end on something positive. I replied and then moved onto Todoroki. 

“No, it’s ok. I’ll go after visiting my mother. Thank you” even though his typing style was neat and formal. Only saying what he needed too and then ending the conversation whereas Bakugou wrote whatever came to mind in that second and sent it off. I replied to him as well and then put my phone away. 

“Black isn’t a colour but I'll allow it” she stood quickly smiling out and then moving around the store grabbing Kaminari and Kirishima to help her find something for me to wear. I laughed at the awkward faces but they both went to work. 

“Y/N” I was called over to Mina who was holding a bikini set that was F/C, it was modest and covered everything that needed to be covered. I nodded and then looked to the fabric taking it, it had a nice texture as well. 

They looked nice, the bottoms weren’t held together by a string which I instantly liked and the bra part looked rather nice. The bra had little ruffles along the rim which were cute. I looked at the size and laughed. She looked confused as the boys walked overhearing the commotion. “You got a size far to small at least for the top” she tilted her hand and then looked down to my chest. 

I moved to hold my shirt against my body and her eyes widened “That’s some voodoo magic” she called out and I could see a few boys blushing as Mineta fell to the floor. “No what” she called out and looked amazed. 

I let go of my shirt and she shook her head “I just wear baggy clothing and jumpers to school. I appreciate the thought though” I laughed and moved to grab the size that fit me and she looked about ready to faint I laughed again. “It’s not the first time” she nodded and we went looking for the rest of the swimwear we all needed. “Kirishima” I watched his head turn and I held up a red swim shirt that had a picture of Crimson Riot on the back. 

“I need it but I don’t usually wear shirts” he whispered and looked overly happy that I had found it. Leaning down I showed him the matching bottoms a little picture of the hero on the bottom of them. “There we go” he nodded and got both of them “Isn’t this kinda childish though” he frowned. 

“If they had a swimsuit that had my favourite character on it, I’d get it. It’s manly to be you” I nodded and his eyes lit up as he jumped putting his arms together. He was so happy that someone had simply let him be a fan

“You’re right” he nodded and went to go show the others who were more than interested to listen to him babble about how much he loved Crimson Riot. I didn’t doubt he had far more merch then those two pieces of clothing. Though I was surprised to see the merch for such an old hero.  

I looked around as the others did, Tokoyami having grabbed the black pieces of swimwear I had shown him prior when we were walking over. Mina found some pink swimmers that complimented her and I walked further into the store seeing something I knew one of my friends would be interested in. Grabbing the colour I assumed he’d like I walked over to the group. 

“Shoji” I held up the seemingly normal swimsuit and I watched as everyone was confused until I pulled down an almost invisible zipper down the sides of the shirt and his eyes lit up. 

“You seem to find what everyone needs Y/N” I could see the smile through his mask and I nodded handing over the shirt showing him where the zipper was. “I have bottoms so I’m all done” I looked back and watched as the boys went off Kaminari having picked some yellow bottom with Pikachu on them, I smiled as they went to try on their clothes. 

I walked around until finding a nice black rash shirt with F/C strips along the ribs. Picking my size I walked over to Mina “Do you think I should get shorts or with the bikini bottoms be enough” I asked. She turned and looked at the outfit I was holding up. 

“The shirt seems pretty long so I think you should be fine” she nodded and then moved to feel the rash shirt “That’s super soft” her eyes widened and I did the same nodding. “Go try them on” I looked down and tilted my head. Creating an illusion her eyes widened “You never need to try on clothes, I'm so jealous” she cried out and I laughed “But they look super good”

I nodded. A few more minutes and trying on clothes we were ready to move on with the rest of our trip. Paying for the clothing and a reusable bag to put it in we were off everyone having bought something. We walked and talked as we moved on to different stores buying things and talking about what we would need. It was a fun trip and I had messaged my mother if she could pick me up having bought all the things I needed and it is quite a lot. She said yes, she was acting nice the last few days but I didn’t mention it. 

“I think that was a successful trip” Tokoyami pointed out and we all agreed. “It’s almost three so let’s all meet up with the group” we stopped by one more store to buy some new pillowcases and then we made our way back to the centre, being the first to arrive. 

Throughout the trip we had been stopped a few times by people interested in our school and other things, we mostly thanked them and then went on with our day. I smiled at my ‘fans’ and then we were off to the place where we said we would all meet up. Having arrived we weren’t the first, of course, Iida was here before us all, bags in hand. He dressed like a dad and I loved that he wore such formal but casual clothes. Though when we arrived we were told that Midoriya had been attacked per se by Shigaraki. The league of villains so-called leader. I was practically shaking when we were told. Then asked by police if we had seen anyone. I hadn’t even thought about the league or Stains little followers. I wasn’t safe, we weren’t safe. The police conducted a sweep but Shigaraki wasn’t found and I didn’t know if I wanted him too. Midoriya was taken to the police station to file a report. 

I stood with the rest of my peers and waved them off with a “Please be careful getting home” as I walked to the carpark placing all my new things into the boot while my mother was on the phone to someone. Getting into the passenger side I waved to the group getting waves back and raised my phone pointing to it mouthing “Message me” I got nods and then I was off on the drive home. 

My mother complained to someone on the other side of the line, but their conversation ended quickly. Her eyes glazed over to my body for a moment before talking “Did you get everything you need” she seemed very calm which was odd. 

“Yes, I did” I responded and she nodded stopping at a roundabout “I’ll be gone for a week as of the camp, I don’t know if I’ll be able to message as we don’t know where we are going” I explained as she drove through turning to the main road, the road home. 

“That’s fine, you still have your suitcase” I hummed a yes and she nodded “Your father and I are going on a week vacation while you are gone” so that’s why she was being nice. She didn’t want me there anyway. “I’ll drop you off on Monday and pick you up when you get home” I nodded and the conversation was over. 

Arriving home we went our separate ways. I moved into my room and began to get messages from everyone that they got home. I sent a message that I arrived home safely. I was so worried about the league but shook my head and began to pack my bag for the trip. I arranged everything and then began to pack, Aizawa saying they had beds for us so I didn’t need to bring Tatami to the trip. I packed my pillow and then packed around it, the piece is the biggest. Clothing folded perfectly and then placed inside. I packed the PowerPoint and extra chargers just in case. I had to charge my headphones tonight. I lifted myself from the floor and put them on to charge. 

Then came dinner, it was simple and easy to eat. Down with some ice water I was in a good mood, and excited mood. A few moments on my phone then I was back to packing. I finished well into the night having made sure I had everything but leaving a note in the bathroom to pack my toiletries the day I was leaving before I left. I believed I was ready for bed as I stretched and then looked back to the bag. Amongst shopping, I had bought some t-shirts and shorts, ready for the outdoors. My boots were thick but flat so I could wear them without care if we had to do a lot of walking. I moved to pack a few jumpers for sleeping or if it got cold. I packed Bakugous without a thought.

I had gotten a message in a new group titled “The girls” I smiled when I was informed that I was being asked if I wanted to join the rest of the girls using the schools' pool tomorrow before the camp. “Use the school swimsuit,” I said I’d be there.

-

I had arrived at school the next day wearing the school swimsuit under my regular clothes and going to the changing room to undress when I saw the rest of the girls changing. I waved as they began to talk about nothing in particular and I joined in a few times. 

“I am so excited for camp,” Toru yelled, voice high and full of energy even though it was rather early in the morning. I was still just waking up, not quite remembering how I got to school. As I peeled off my shirt I watched as the girls stopped talking.

“It’s so weird, right” I was confused and I followed their gaze to my chest as I flushed and looked away “Oh sorry Y/N” Mina apologised and I waved a hand as it was ok. It was I didn’t mind. “We went shopping  and I was amazed” 

“I can see why your outfits make you look flat” Jiro bluntly stated and I nodded looking down at my breasts. I wasn’t flat I thought I had nice breasts. We continued to get changed and then walked out into the pool area. “We got permission off Aizawa to be here so there was no need to worry” I nodded, I didn’t think about it. Momo had planned this and I trusted her. 

We were just chilling stretching off to the side of the pool when the boys began to show up. The swimsuits weren’t too bad, covering my body, I should have brought something like this for the camp but I didn’t mind too much, I thought my outfit was cute. We stretched and then we began to play volleyball. We were having so much fun playing and joking with the girls. 

“Serve”

“Chance ball” 

“Got it” 

“Mine” 

We were having so much fun with I was smiling though I kept most of my body under the water being a little self-conscious of the tight clothing I was having fun nonetheless. I threw myself back aiming for a ball and hitting it over the net as I splashed into the water on my back gaining us a point. 

When my head rose I heard a loud voice “The next time I beat you, I want you to be at your strongest, you damn nerd” I turned seeing Bakugou in all his glory, shirt off and tight pants on. I watched him storm his way towards Midoriya and my heartbeat quicken. He was so attractive. The girls and I watched on confused as to what was happening. 

“Hey I got your message, sorry I'm late” Kirishima waved his hand around smiling. His arm was out holding Bakugou from the green-headed shaking male “It took a while to convince Bakugou to come out” I wanted to thank Kirishima for trying his hardest this is all I could have wanted. He was so muscular as I sighed out and flushed glad no one was paying attention to me. 

“So Deku, you wanna settle who's the best of us right now” Bakugou was sure in a mood, his arm raised and hand outstretched to allow his palms to pop with small harmless explosions. He was sure fired up “Huh” he yelled. Midoriya stepped back shaking his head. 

“You know what we could make this training a contest” Iida spoke more to himself then the group and my ears picked up on the chatter. “Hey everyone I propose we see which of the boys can swim 50 metres the fastest. A friendly race” he smiled and I couldn’t help the way my hands twitched. There was no such thing as a friendly race, at least in my books. 

I ducked beneath the water and swam over quickly as they all rounded up. I popped out of the water on an illusion raising myself in front of them in all my glory. “I hope I’m welcome” I smiled and saw their fearful faces. Licking my lips I dropped down in front of the water falling from my body as I smiled. “I do enjoy beating you all” I was not met with smiles but determined faces of my peers.

“OK then, the boys and Y/N” Iida nodded and I moved to crack my knuckles rather loudly as I saw a few of the boys look rather excited and some just look nervous. I think I saw Kaminari wince to the sound of cracking bones. 

“Iida why don’t you let us help you out with this” Momo asked the girls now out of the pool and looking excited as the rest of us. I was bouncing around, I was far too competitive for my good. I hated not being apart of competition but this was something else. This was a real competition. Iida agreed to the help, from the girls. 

“And quirks,” Ojiro asked slowly his hand raised with a towel around his neck “Are we allowed to use them” I could win easily if we did. Just set them on a little course that wasn’t in the pool and I could easily win. 

“Well, we are at school” Iida pondered, yes, just say we can. “So there shouldn’t be a problem with that” I smiled to the group and moved my hand letting out a little mist for emphasis I saw wide eyes and worried faces. “However you cannot cause damage to your classmates or the building” I could agree with that.

Bakugou walked forward and just past me to stand in front of Midoriya, they needed a new hobby “I’m going to annihilate you Deku” clenched fists and hard stare he spoke calmly, honestly. “And you too Icy-Hot” I turned to where his eyes were to see Todoroki sitting on the floor, without a shirt. The lords have blessed me today. “You bastard” he was in a bad mood, like always. Then the explosive blonde turned to me “You especially” then he walked off and I smiled. 

“I look forward to it” I called out behind him. We all moved into lines. I was in the second heat so I watched the first five boys race. Then the whistle went off. 

Bakugou was flying through the air landing on his feet at the end of the pool. “How was that you sidekicks” he called out hand raised and I smiled when he got backlash from his friends “It’s called freestyle swimming” he had a point it was a freestyle. 

Then it was my go with Todoroki, Sero, Kirishima and Sato “On your marks, get set, go” the whistle was off and I watched as an illusion came around them jumping in as I jumped off the ledge and walked to the other end of the pool stepping up and letting the illusion fall. Sero taping his way across the surface of the water and Todoroki surfing on ice.

“You’re supposed to be swimming” Kaminari and Mineta yelled as I simply shrugged my shoulders. Watching Sato and Kirishima get to the end of the pool. Todoroki looked at me as well. 

“What can I say. I like to win” I smiled and moved back to the lines “At least I touched the water” I put my hands on my hips and lined back up “Beside quirks are allowed and I didn’t hurt anybody or property” I wasn’t wrong. 

“It’s time for the final race. Bakugou, Y/N, Todoroki, Midoriya you had the fastest four times. You will fight for first place” his hands were on his hips as I nodded Midoriya and Todoroki making a verbal response. 

“Listen up scarface" I believed that to be a little harsh to the ear but then again that was Bakugou "Don’t you dare hold back as you did at the sports festival” his voice was so angry, he really still thought about that, did he forget I had beat him? ‘Bring everything you’ve got” I didn’t take it personally, I think Bakugou had a thing for people who didn’t take him seriously, while I did. “You too fight to win” he turned to Midoriya they were all agreeing and talking. 

“Are we forgetting I beat all three of you” I voiced and it went silent. “I mean” I laughed lightly an aura of danger being released. “I don’t like when people don’t take me seriously” I smiled and saw the nods.  

We got into place and I smirked standing on the pedestal. I could hear yelling and other things as I smiled seeing the boys activating their quirks and I sighed. “Get set” this would be easy. I smiled. “Go” as I went to jump I saw no illusion appear.

I heard the yells of my opponents as I fell into the water, having just stepped in instead of swimming. I rose to see Aizawa his hair up and quirk activated “It’s five pm, your authorised pool time is officially over. Hurry up and go home” did he have to do that. It was one race that would have been over in less than a minute. Kaminari and Sero voiced my complaints. “Are you questioning me” his eyes shone and I was glad I hadn’t been the one to talk.

We all rushed to get changed and go home once we were allowed. I sighed and got out of the pool feeling my quirk return to me, it was a weird feeling when it was off. Then I was heading home having to get ready for the camp. 

I ate once I was home and then began to repack making sure I had everything I needed when I finished packing for the night and laid down being rather exhausted more then I would like to admit. I sighed out and went on my phone seeing a message I had missed about a quarter of an hour before. “Do you have a spare charger I spent longer with my mother and left mine with her” Todorokis’ message read. I smiled, he had messaged me. 

“Yeah, I’ll pack it and give it to you at camp” I responded, I was never one for emojis or the little stickers but when I received one from Todoroki it being a little cat saying ‘Thank you’ I couldn’t help the blush rising to my cheeks. “No issues” I replied and stared at the ceiling for a moment to calm my racing heart. 

I was tired but that didn’t stop me from watching a video I wanted to catch up on, a few hours passed and it was getting close to midnight, I had to get some sleep. I moved to place my phone on charge, pulling the blanket over my body and the warmth and sleep consumed my form. Hello, summer break. 

_______________________________________________________________

Chapter 8 

[abrunettefangirlnerd]

Insecure

Pairing: Steve Rogers x reader

Oneshot

Summary: feeling insecure about your looks, Steve helps you to see what he sees.

You put away the last bit of the laundry. Life has been crazy this whole last week. The guys have been on mission after mission, meanwhile the aching pain in your side hasn’t subsided. Bruce, not to your delight, thinks you shouldn’t even be training. But you would go completely stir crazy laying in bed or on the couch all day.

             What the boys know won’t hurt them. Besides, you want to try to stay in shape. Anytime you are under bed rest, you feel like your muscles turn to mush and your totally body fat sky rockets. Being insecure your whole life about your looks, you finally started to feel comfortable with all the cardio and weightlifting.

             Especially around your friends from before becoming an Avenger. They all know you are a part of the team, your costume doesn’t exactly hide your identity. Neither did the fact that you blew up a baseball with your bare hands in college because it scared you. At a game the batter hit the ball into the crowd, it was coming for you, you threw your hands up in defense but never felt the ball hit your skin. Instead the ball fell to the ground in the small pieces that were left.

             Fury found you shortly after. Explained to you that there are others, a team, a family that you could be a part of. You accepted the offer and never looked back. For once you felt like you belonged, but every once in a while some of your insecurities come flooding back.

“Hey gorgeous,” Steve’s deep voice creeps around your door frame. Joining your curled up body on your bed, Steve brushes your free hair behind your ear. “I have a surprise for you. I know you’ve been cooped up in this building for two weeks, so I brought your two friends from home.”

“Really?” You slowly sit up, griping your side. It feels like forever since you’ve seen them, and you’ve missed them desperately.

             Steve nods his head with a smile. And before you know it, you leave Steve to smell the burning rubber from your rapid departure. Running through the pain, you make it to the corridor to see your long-term friends standing in awestruck wonder at the architecture.

“Oh my god! Christi! Abby!” You manage to apply your breaks just in time to keep from barreling the girls to the floor. Collecting your composure, you wrap each in an arm and offer a big group hug.

“Safe to say you like your surprise?” Steve appears by the stairs with a smug smirk.

             Letting go of your girls, you race back toward Steve. Leaping into his arms, the pain doesn’t present itself until Steve’s arms securely wrap around you. Steve gets in a spin or two before putting you down. Kissing your temple, Steve apologizes for hurting you but you just shrug it off.

               The girls and you end up in the art studio down the hall from your room. The movie Book Club plays in the background as the three of you attempt to paint while drinking your glasses of wine. Christi wants to know everything about the male Avengers. She is on the market for a boyfriend, and thinks a superhero will be a perfect match. However, Abby just wants to know about you and Steve.

“You two ARE dating right?” Abby takes a sip of her wine and wiggles the brows.

“We haven’t really put a title on it yet,” you can feel the warmth from the wine spread to your face. “We are definitely more than friends, but he has been so busy lately. Maybe once I’m back on the field we can talk about it.”

             The girls tell you how impressed they were that Steve came to get them. They assumed when he got back from missions, the two of you would be inseparable. Honestly, they aren’t wrong but you also get your fair shared time with the others on the team. But that’s Steve, he is very big on personal space. It’s something you are very thankful for. Even though the two of you aren’t officially together it is easy to get lost in someone else and forget the world around you.

             After painting, you move into the movie room. It is getting late, and you all are getting fairly tired. Sitting on the couch your gaze wanders to your thighs. In your peripheral you see the thin outline of your own friend’s thighs and notice how drastic the change is. You pretend not to notice the difference in body types between you and your friends.

             Suddenly all insecurities from college and high school come flooding back. The fact that you were admiring your own body in the mirror just hours ago escapes you. Any feeling of accomplishment from your workouts, training, missions no longer exists. Not next to Christi and Abby.

             You know it’s not their fault, and you’re not bitter toward them whatsoever. Christi eats a lot of junk but just so happens to be gifted with the perfect metabolism gene. Abby just does her own thing, no workouts and no dieting, but it works for her. You have always had more fat to you. Before becoming an Avenger, home workouts never did a thing and changing your diet did nothing as well. Since being here you have lost 20 lbs but you are still 10 – 15 lbs heavier than your friends next to you.

             Agreeing on a childhood favorite, you grab a blanket and curl up in a ball. The more coverage you provide the greater the lie you can tell yourself of what lies beneath. The girls follow suit and the three of you talk and make comments about the movie until the three of you pass out.

             Only a few hours later your body atomically wake up around 7:00 am. No matter the time you fall asleep, or the quality of sleep, your body always has a habit of waking you up early in the morning. The only other person in this building that I normally awake at this time is Steve. Though, after the rest he probably needed after the mission he is most likely still in bed.

               You crawl off the couch carefully trying not to wake the girls. A searing pain ripples through your right side to your leg. Biting your lip helps keep your internal scream from moving up your throat. Shimmying the rest of the way out of the room, you head towards the locker room to start training.

“What do you think you are doing?” His surprisingly stern voice echoes through the training room as soon as you enter.

“STEVE! Seriously, one day you are going to give me a heart attack.”

             Ignoring Steve’s original question, you make your way to the punching bag. You feel the need to build up your strength in your left arm. Perhaps if you get your strength back up the rest of the team may be convinced to let you back on the field early.

             Hearing your fist hit leather, the sounds doesn’t over power the feeling of you skin shift. My body is ultimately made up of fat! I’m not even muscle, just fat and bone! Tears sting  behind your eyes as the comments of from arrogant assholes from your past echo with each punch.

She’s easier to aim for, (Y/N)’s bigger than the others!

(Y/N) is a nice friend. I know she likes me, but you look more like my type.

             As each voice filters through your ears each punch against the bag gets harder and harder. The sound radiates through the training center. Completely in a trance, you don’t notice Steve’s gaze on you as he approaches closer. Right before he gets too close you realize your leg muscles need a workout as well, and you take off towards the track.

“(Y/N)!” Steve shouts but the pain in your side is all you can focus on.

             Wheezing, your arm wraps around your right side in attempt to console it. The pain radiates down the side of your body toward your leg once again. With each step you start to feel like jello.

             The sound of your body hitting the ground registers before the additional pain does. Dazed and confused how you got there, you feel a presence next to you. They place both their hands on each side of your face and examine for any blood. You’d swat them away if it wasn’t for the sudden want of physical touch.

“Steve, do you think you’d prefer if I was skinnier?” Sleepiness invades your senses.

“What are you talking about?”

             You don’t say anything else as Steve scoops you in his arms. All you do is point to your thighs and the little pudge on your stomach. Steve says nothing as he carries you to your room. All he does is place a soft kiss to the side of your head before laying you down on your bed covers.

“Where is this coming from?” Steve inquires, but you only shrug your shoulders. The both of you know that you do. Steve doesn’t press though, which you are thankful for.

“(Y/N), you’re brilliant. If it wasn’t for Stark or Banner you would easily be the smartest person I’ve ever known.” He soothingly brushes his fingers up and down your arms, luring you to sleep. “Outstandingly stunning. Though if we must talk specifically your body?”

             Steve delays by gently pulling your body onto his. Resuming the touch of his fingers against your arm, you wait for him to continue. The butterflies in your stomach ache as much as your injury pain. Assuming the worst, you’re not sure if you really want to know or not.

“I assume this trip of insecurity is due to your friends being here.” No offensiveness rises within you. You’ve told Steve about this before. “No, you’re not as thin as them. But they’re not as fit as you are. I know you hate your thighs the most, but doll trust me they are mostly hard muscle. Of which I find way more attractive than being super skinny, but unable to effectively fight.”

“I’m sorry-,” you start before Steve cuts you off with a kiss.

“You don’t need to be sorry. I get it, and I love you.” And this time you kiss him.

Tags: @mrs-captain-evans​ @crowleys-squirrel​ @princess-evans-addict​

[angelic-butnotinnocent]

♥-Mercury Retrograde-♥

Mercury retrograde through the houses ;

Mercury is a quick moving personal planet. When he reverses he triggers in each of us a period of reflection and re-organisation – in fact pretty much any word with the prefix ‘re’ can be applied during this period. How the retrograde will affect you may manifest in a myriad of ways.

you can check where mercury goes retrograde in your transit chart

♥1st house♥;How you approach the world may need to be re-thought. Consider a change of image – do the research but perhaps wait until the retrograde is over before booking a drastic haircut! Take a long look in the mirror. The most important thing is whether you are happy with what you see.You may find yourself tripping over words or unable to express yourself in a way you would like. You worry about how you are coming across to others. There’s a growing sense that you would like to express a part of yourself that perhaps you haven’t allowed to come out before. You may feel like the way others perceive you doesn’t reflect who you are on the inside. Mercury retrograde in this house can help bring the inside and outside together, restoring confidence.Take a personality test, read up on your natal chart – for others to know you, you have to know you.

Keywords – Reframe, reaffirm, re-vamp

♥2nd house♥;Take a look at what you hold dear. You may find yourself asking the question ‘Is it really worth it?‘. Money due may be delayed so it’s wise to keep some aside just in case. Sometimes unexpected money falls into your lap.It’s time to think about what you really value in life. Are you happy with how you make money? Are you financially comfortable? What do you really want? Do you believe you are worth it? Are you on the way to getting it or do you feel like you moving further away? Review your bank account; keep any sale’s receipts; pay overdue bills; avoid major new purchases; update or start a record listing your outgoings and income; open a savings account.

Keywords – Re-evaluate, replenish, re-stock

♥3rd house♥;All forms of communication, transport and thinking are brought into focus. You may feel like your mind is very busy. Sometimes Mercury transiting here can increase worry and nervous symptoms. Ensure you create some quiet time to gain clarity. On a deep level, you are working through what you know. Confusion may mean you need further information.Repair your car; check the tires; take the car for an MOT/service; check your oil and water before a long drive. Research, replace the battery in your phone; charge up your battery regularly; replace your phone (but avoid a new contract until after Mercury retrograde). Watch your speed limit.Ask questions to ensure you understand; check someone received your message if you haven’t heard from them; send important items early – by insured post if possible; check appointment times; spell-check before sending! Back up your computer, run your virus and malware checker regularly; double check emails are from who they say they are from.In personal communications, make sure you have understood the other person’s point of view before going off the deep-end. Diffuse arguments. Don’t make promises that you can’t keep; don’t say yes when you mean no and vice versa.Reconnect with your siblings – especially if things were left on a difficult note.

Keywords – Re-think, rewrite, review

♥4th house♥;Your home is your sanctuary. Does it reflect who you are? If you feel stuck in a rut in life, maybe energy in your home is also ‘stuck’. Change the furniture around to give yourself a new perspective. Revisit each room and try to see it with the eyes of a stranger. What does it say about you? Release objects that no longer have any meaning.The 4th house is also your foundation, your childhood, your roots. What were you told as a child that you still believe is true? You may become aware of negative thought patterns that have a significant impact upon your life. Don’t be afraid to ask yourself fundamental questions.Old family/childhood issues may resurface or there may be a need to walk down memory lane. Reconnect with your family. Make peace with your past.

Keywords – Re-route/re-root! Redecorate, re-establish, retrace, refurnish

♥5th house♥;There may be a withdrawal of creative energy. Let the process happen, your project may need time to ferment. Loss of confidence may be an underlying reason for creative stalling. Check in with what you are telling yourself about your ability to express yourself. Don’t compare yourself to others. You are who you are.Seek out new inspiration. Visit a gallery, the theatre, the beach, a local park. Try out a new craft. Take yourself on an artist’s date.This can be a wonderful time to reconnect to your inner child. Aim to re-capture your spontaneity. Play a game. Spend time with your children, see through their eyes. Be curious.An old flame may reappear. Past partners may remind you of how far you have come or how happy/unhappy you feel. Alternatively this is an excellent time to inject some romance back into a jaded relationship. Put your thinking caps on and devise new ways to ‘play’ together 🙂Traditionally this isn’t the best time to start a new love affair. Whilst life must go on during Mercury retrograde, it’s wise not to fall head over heels just yet.

Keywords – Re-ignite, reanimate, rehearse, rekindle, recapture

♥6th house♥;Re-organise your workspace, office or desk. Sort out your diary, create a calendar or to-do list. re-work your routines. Re-connect with your colleagues and/or reflect upon your relationship with them. Sometimes this transit may manifest as mix-ups in communication and team work can suffer. Check everyone else has the right information to hand. Sometimes this transit can feel like your schedule has been thrown out of the window. Mercury may be asking that you become more flexible. Routines and habits can be an excellent structure to work from however they can also make life a little dull, safe and predictable.In matters of health, this is the time to do a personal inventory. How do you feel? Are you full of energy or weighed down by aches and pains and undefined maladies? This is the perfect opportunity to do some research into your own health issues. Unless there are serious consequences for postponement, a second opinion (when Mercury is direct) is advised before embarking on a course of treatment for an illness or problem. Test results now may be inconclusive. Avoid starting a new diet. Time is better spent researching the foods you will eat, gathering recipes and nutritional information.

Keywords – Reorganisation, rejuvenation, relapse, repair, recover, refresh

♥7th house♥;Whether marriage or business partner, Mercury’s transit here may call for re-negotiation of terms. In personal relationships, we often have unspoken contracts and agreements that have developed over time from who takes the trash out to who sleeps on what side of the bed. There are also others such as ‘don’t ever disagree with my Mother’. These ‘rules’ can be taught to us through certain behaviours and body language. What remains ‘unspoken’ is likely to be given voice during this transit and perhaps this is necessary in order for you to clear the path ahead.Alternatively, old issues that you thought forgotten may rear up and you may find yourself having to bite your tongue. Mercury retrograde in the 7th house can serve to bring you closer together by airing differences of opinion. By the time this transit is over, you may both feel like you understand each other a lot better.Traditionally it isn’t recommended to get married or set a wedding date under Mercury retrograde. If you have to sign a contract, read the small print! If possible, defer until after Mercury has gone direct.

Keywords – Re-negotiate, refine, reunite

♥8th house♥;In the house of shared resources, Mercury here offers you the chance to find out if you are getting and/or giving your fair share in a relationship. It may be time to redistribute the wealth. Renew your insurance, check when your insurance runs out, avoid taking out a loan, pay off your debts and taxes. There may be issues or delays with jointly held resources during this time. It is not the best time to take out a mortgage or loan or invest in a new business.Sexual issues may need to be discussed. Divine intimacy can be achieved through sharing your thoughts. It may be important to recall previous intimate relationships in order to understand better your preferences and needs.The 8th house favours eliminating the old. Cleanse your mind. Secrets and hidden things may come to light during this time. Psycho-analysis and other forms of healing are beneficial.

Keywords – relinquish, repay, re-allocate, relent

♥9th house♥;Re-examine what you believe about the world as Mercury backs up in the 9th house. Your beliefs create what you experience. It’s time to consider the future. What you do now effects the outcome. What’s your overall philosophy to life? Are you really living it? This house is also connected to morals and ethics. During this transit you may be called upon to re-assess what the truth really means.This is a good time to re-sit exams previously failed or to go back into education. Use this time to revise, to edit writing, to re-write and proof read your work. Explore books that make you think differently about the world.You may have a sense that you have lost the big picture somewhere along the line. Take some time to re-visualise where you want to be.You may find yourself needing to revisit a place. Generally however, travel plans at this time need to be triple checked. Be prepared for delays, cancelled flights and roadblocks. Mercury would like you to see where you are so you can be clearer about where you want to go. Sometimes we just have to stand still.The 9th house is also associated with the concept of faith. Your faith in yourself or in a higher being may be called into question. Faith adhered to without question can bind you. Keep asking the big questions!

Keywords – revisit, re-examine, retrain

♥10th house♥;Take care of old business, finish the job you started. A change in status can sometimes be indicated by this transit from promotion to job loss. There may be communication problems with a manager or team leader. Misunderstandings can lead to frustration. Patience and a cautious approach are necessary. This is not the time for a career change or to apply for a new job. Reapplying for a job you didn’t get before however is favourable. Use this period to consider whether you are happy with your career to date and what you would like to achieve. Researching a new career and connecting with people who work in that sector is a beneficial use of the retrograde period..If you are self-employed, take care with new contracts and clients. This may be the time to re-consider how you market yourself and the clients you want to work with. Re-vamp your public image.Alternatively, a great way to make use of Mercury in the 10th is to take a holiday from work, spend some time at home and recharge your batteries.

Keywords – redefine, re-assemble, reappoint, resign, retire, re-orientate.

♥11th house♥;Time for a catch up with old friends. You may bump into each other unexpectedly. On the other hand, this transit can indicate a withdrawal from the social scene for a while which may happen by choice or circumstance. If this occurs, it may be that you need to take some time to discover who you are away from others. Most often this can happen when too much time has been spent socialising and not enough time alone.There can be misunderstandings with friends at this time. Be sure you have the right end of the stick before you cross them off your Christmas card list. Gossip and rumour may play havoc with otherwise good relationships. It’s wise to follow the ‘hear no evil, speak no evil‘ motto right now. It could however be time to weed out connections that no longer serve you. Mercury retrograde in the 11th can help you to discover who your real friends are and why you move in the circles you do. It also serves as a reminder that people make their own decisions in the end. You can’t control what others decide to do.The 11th house is also connected to your goals and dreams. Re-capture a dream that you once had to get inspired about the future. Research networks that may help you towards your goal.

Keywords – Reconnect, regroup, reconvene, reform

♥12th house♥;As I start to write this piece, I hear Simon and Garfunkal singing ‘The Sound of Silence’ in my mind. When Mercury transits retrograde in the 12th house, the need for retreat and quiet may be very strong. For some this can manifest as a strong pull towards their own inner psychology. Mercury may bring you messages from your deep unconscious mind through dreams. Keep a record of dreams during the retrograde period as they may well provide information you need to be aware of. Images from past lives may surface.Sometimes it may feel like you have been left alone with no one to rely on. It may be because only you can decide what comes next. Regrets may characterise this time, with sorrow bubbling up about what could have been and should have been. Be kind to yourself and let it go. If you are telling yourself dark and twisted stories, give the tale a happy ending. Trust that you can make the right decision by yourself and move forward.Your spiritual life gets a boost when Mercury retrogrades the 12th. As the outside world loses its pull over you, you may find yourself more psychically aware and sensitive to subtle vibrations. Synchronicity speaks to you vividly. Spiritual renewal is a possibility. Meditate, remove your mental chains, set up an altar, commune with the world soul, pray.

Keywords – redeem, release, recharge, re-consecrate, repent

source ; leahwhitehorse.com

[starcrossedjedis]

all ship questions for the otp you're currently vibing with most! xo

Oof thank you <3

Gotta go with Sirius and Moira then (also in LOVE with Nora and George, but they aren’t as planned out as Nora’s parents sooo^^)

PRE-RELATIONSHIP

1. How did they first meet?

They met on their first night at Hogwarts after both being sorted into Gryffindor.

2 What was their first impression of each other?

Sirius probably didn’t even notice her, because he was so excited to have been sorted in the same house as James AND in Gryffindor no less. Moira wasn’t impressed with his boisterous ways at all. By the time he notices Moira he’s probably just wodering what her problem with him is, because she loathes him^^

3. Did any of their friends or family want them to get together?

Seeing that Sirius’s family don’t care if he lives or dies, they probably didn’t care about his relationship status. Moira’s parents kept out of that part of their daughter’s life, as they found that this wasn’t their business so long as she didn’t turn up with a Death Eater or sth. All of their friends minus Peter really want them together though - especially Lily dreams of double dates in Hogmaede, but no such luck xD

4. Who felt romantic feelings first?

Romantic is probably overstating things and for the longest time Moira would probably have hexed anyone who as much as suggested it, but she definitely had a crush on Sirius first. He made the first ever step though then took two steps back.

5. Did either of them try to resist their feelings?

Hah! Ain’t that the whole plot to this story? First Moira would rather drop dead than admit she could be feeling anything but righteous loathing for Sirius. Then her and Sirius kiss, but he learns that Peter likes her and steps back for fear of destroying the Marauders by acting on his feelings and thus hurting a friend. And then when he finally gets his act together when they are both in the Order of the Phoenix, she has just started going out with Gideon Prewett and feels obligated to see where this relationship goes and not drop him at the first sign of affection from a guy who’s broken her heart before.

6. If you had told one of them that the other would be their soulmate, what would they think?

During their Hogwarts days they would have either laughed in your face or hexed you into the next millenium for even suggesting this. Once they’re together, maybe even before that, there is no doubt.

GENERAL

1. Who initiated the relationship, and how did it go?

Well, the first kiss just kinda... happens, I guess? Then Moira kinda... dares Sirius to make a move, but he doesn’t? And then down the road he practically begs her to dump Gideon to be with him, but she shoots him down, just to appear on his doorstep on the very same night, because she did dump Gideon to be with him and... I guess it kinda depends on how you define “initiate” xD

2. Did they have an official first date? If so, what was it like?

They didn’t have a first date. By the time they are both on the same page, they pretty much just jump straight to the “established relationship” part and due to circumstances they mostly divide their time between missions for the Order, time spent with their loved ones and hiding out at home for some much needed alone time. 

3. What was their first kiss like?

Unexpected? xD But enough to leave both of them like “oh.” (you know. Oh.)

4. Were they each other’s first anything (kiss, relationship, etc.)?

Sirius was Moira’s first kiss. Due to mutual dumbassery this is the only shared first in a long line of firsts. One could also argue that she is his first and only real relationship.

5. What’s their height difference? Age difference?

Moira’s birthday is March 21st 1960, which makes her just a little bit younger than Sirius. They are in the same year at Hogwarts. Their height difference is a bit more significant than that, with Sirius being around 6′1 (taken from yours truly Ben Barnes’s stats^^) and Moira coming in at 5′6. It’s not drastic, but enough that she has to stand on tippy toes to kiss him and for her to fit perfectly under his arm <3 

6. What’s their relationship with each other’s families?

Moira - understandably - doesn’t have a relationship with Sirius’s family. Her parents like Sirius, but that probably takes a nose dive once he gets framed for the betrayal of James and Lily Potter.

7. Who takes the lead in social situations?

Probably Sirius, mostly due to the fact that they largely have the same friends and the Marauders... let’s say they know how to fill a room.

8. Who gets jealous easier?

Definitely Sirius. He pretty much throws a fit when Peter invites Moira to Hogsmaede and she accepts. And when she starts going out with Gideon Prewett after school, he takes it hard. Very hard.

LOVE

1. Who said “I love you” first?

Moira, on the night she comes to his door after breaking things off with Gideon.

2. What are their primary love languages?

Before they’re together, it’s mostly covert glances when the other isn’t looking. And shouting, probably. When they’re together, it’s small things like smiles and casual touches. They also hold hands pretty much wherever they are and James teases Sirius mercilessly about it.

3. How often do they cuddle/engage in PDA?

See the answer above ^^’ They’re not Percy/Penelope level disgusting about it, but no one who sees them is ever gonna doubt those idiots are in love.

4. What are their favorite things to do together?

Pretty boring, but with the war, the missions for the Order and all they mostly enjoy spending quiet time alone together. They love to sit in front of a fireplace together and either read (on occasion to each other) or just talk and... cuddle until the fire goes out.

5. Who’s better at comforting the other?

Moira has a very soft and caring side, which is probably one of the qualities that attract Sirius to her.

6. Who’s more protective?

Sirius. That man is an actual guard dog, so... It’s also the reason people are so quick to believe that he betrayed the Potters, because it made sense to them that there truly was nothing he wouldn’t have done to protect his wife and daughter. 

7. Do they prefer verbal or physical affection?

They actually have a terrible track record when it comes to talking things out. They are much, much better where they allow their bodies to do the talking - that doesn’t just mean sex though. They can say so much to each other with just a look or a soft squeeze of a hand.

8. What are some songs that apply to their relationship, in-universe or otherwise?

It’s “Space” by Biffy Clyro. That’s it. That’s their song and I cannot listen to it without thinking about them <3

9. What kind of nicknames do they call each other?

They don’t really do nicknames, but until they got married they were big on the whole “calling each other exclusively by their last names, only using their first names when shit’s getting realTM”. That being said, Sirius had a habit of calling her “Freckles” just to piss her off (she almost broke his nose with a bludger during Quidditch try outs after he hollered “Nice one, Freckles!” from the stands). He might occasionally revisits this nickname to tease her.

DOMESTIC LIFE

1. If they get married, who proposes?

Sirius proposes. I already know how he proposes, but I love it so, so much that I don’t just wanna give it away in a post like this T_T

2. What’s the wedding like? Who attends?

It’s small. Really small. Like “the two and the one who officiates’ small.

3. How many kids do they have, if any? What are they like?

They have a daughter named Evanora, short “Nora”. She is the spitting image of her father, but has her maternal grandfather’s dark eyes (much to her chagrin, because both her parents have light eyes that she thinks are so much prettier). Nora is kind and fun and - considering her upbringing - surprisingly open. She is the world’s worst liar, a little bit clumsy and at times awkward. The dark cloud that was her father’s absence and supposed crimes cast a shadow over most of her childhood, no matter how hard her mother tried to shield her from it. This is probably the reason she is so fascinated by the light hearted Weasley twins.

4. Do they have any pets?

They have a Red Tabby named Posy after Nora’s favourite character from “Ballet Shoes”, who is actually descended from Moira’s cat Dot.

5. Who’s the stricter parent?

Moira, simply because she has been a single mother for most of Nora’s life =‘(

6. Who kills the bugs in the house?

Moira and Nora have a strict “No killing bugs” rule and Sirius would never dare and go against it. Bugs get evicted from the Black household via levitation xD

7. How do they celebrate holidays?

So far there were only two times that they celebrated Christmas together and there’s about thirteen years between the two, so it’s a little early to speak of traditions they made for themselves. But before Sirius comes back, Moira and Nora usually go to church with the muggle side of Moira’s family (who are for the most part blissfully unaware that Moira and Nora basically live in voluntary exile from the wizarding world) on Christmas Eve. They have a big dinner with Moira’s parents and exchange of gifts on Christmas Day. Moira and Nora then usually spend Boxing Day at home, wearing pyjamas all day, eating leftovers, baking tons of Christmas biscuits and eating them in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate. Sirius will probably try to find a way to fit into the traditions his girls made for themselves in his absence, while they try to adjust to his needs (like the need to be with his godson over the holidays) and in time there will probably be new traditions they make together,

8. Who’s more likely to convince the other to come back to sleep in the morning? 

Sirius could spend all day cuddled up in bed. And he doesn’t play fair to get his way.

9. Who’s the better cook?

Moira and not only because she has over a decade on Sirius in that regard, she’s always been the better cook. But they love to be in the kitchen together.

[themythrilhusk]

The Rebuke (Prompt 13: Wax)

The sounds of unsatisfied buzzards mingled with the toll of the bell. Once, twice, nine times it rang out, signalling the end of another day in the desert of Thanalan. Cactuar scuttled their way into their community huddle to prepare for the usual dropping temperatures, the Qiqirn retreated into their tents, and people the region over followed suit. Such was true even in the gated neighborhood known as "The Goblet"- while not every home would be filled tonight, (adventurers had such a curious habit of spending inordinate amounts of money on the plots just to sleep in the Quicksand, if not outright camp out in the wilderness rather than return from their journeys) the streets were still filled with quite a number of people. All races and creeds, dressed in such a manner that a more common outsider might wonder if they were all trying to outdo each other in terms of eccentricity. As neighbors, they all greeted each other with warmth and bid goodnights here and there... sans one.

Y'ahd Tia clattered and clanked down through the Heart of the Goblet as he manifested in front of the Aetheryte, ignoring those around him. The day had been an especially long one for the Paladin, and it was evident on his metal skin. The Storm Blue armor he took such lengths to preserve was coated in a layer of dirt, dented and outright broken in some rather uncomfortable looking regions. An employer had bid him into the Kobold's deepest territory (quite literally, in this case) of U'Ghamaro; watching over the alchemist as he hunted for rare materials for some elixir or other had proven to be quite the workout. The denizens of the Mine were about as happy to see him as he was they, the only difference was that he was alive to grumble about it hours later. Still, the hefty presence of the sack of Gil in his hand had made it all worth it. Repairs to his gear could be made, his holdings wouldn't be seized, and... The armor found his thought process interrupted, realizing a second too late that he had passed the stone fence securing the border of his own home. Y'ahd turned and made his way back, staring up at the house he had claimed as his own. "And my employees won't revolt for at least another month.", he finished out loud. With that, the Miqo'te pushed open the door and into his home.

Calling it a home was only partially the truth. The Ul'dahn, Gridanian, and Lominsan governments were a shrewd sort: they only built these neighborhoods as a way to try and entrap the adventurers who roamed their lands. It wasn't a bad plan, really. Beyond forcing them to enlist in their respective armies to even be eligible for property, the hope was that by owning a piece of the City-State, the adventurers would feel compelled to actually fulfill their obligations to the military and want to protect their homes. It did come with a rather stifling limit of one house per adventurer, however. As such, Y'ahd Tia had to divide his parcel of land into both an office and a living space. The first floor that greeted him was the reception area; cut down the middle between a waiting area (one of his staff members stood at the ready next to a table with a kettle of tea, and gave him a bright smile he was almost entirely certain was fake), and a trophy display. Various skulls and stuffed heads of impressive looking beasts hung on the walls, along with a full stuffed Gagana. At either side of it stood mannequins clad in older versions of his armor: a decidedly drab, basic set of plate armor that boasted blue paint (Woad, to be precise) rather than a dip-dye procedure in the forming of it, like his current gear. A prominent rip across the torso certainly implied what led to the retiring of this armor. The second was more advanced; a full set of the Ironwork's finest. Like his current gear, it glinted a proud Storm Blue... at least, where what little metal was apparent on it. The main chestpiece was a thick, deep-dyed leathery doublet rather than proper metal armor. Y'ahd remembered the relief he felt when such gear had gone out of style.

He never truly felt it was trustworthy.

The Paladin turned his attention away from his armor's predecessors, helmet turning fully to regard the squat table all the way across the room. Settled below a massive, handsome painting of the Sultana and her former General, flanked at either side with a banner featuring the Ul'dahn sigil, stood the head of this reception area: his secretary, Colala Cocola. She didn't seem to have registered his arrival, her head buried in a book, bobbing her head in time with the drinking apkallu on her desk. As such, when the Paladin snapped her book shut in front of her face, she let out an indignant yelp- scowling up at the perpetrator before realizing who he was, face paling. "I should hope you have not greeted any visitors with such inattentiveness.", the armor spoke, an icy tone in his voice. "Have we any business? Do you know?" was the follow-up. Colala flustered but a moment before retrieving a letter off the desk and presenting it to him. "No walk-ins today I'm afraid, but this was in the mailbox Master Tia!", she squeaked. Taking the envelope, Y'ahd grunted as he took the Gil sack in his hand, produced two more, and poured a modest amount into them. "Very well. Take your earnings and be on your way for today, then. Lock the door behind you." he commanded, already on his way to the stairs below. He didn't give his staff a second glance.

The hallway at the bottom of the stairs was narrow- while he could move comfortably, even in his plate, he would feel quite cramped if he had to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with another individual of the same size. A Roegadyn would definitely complain. Various paintings were mounted on either side of the walls, carefully spaced out so that one could appreciate them fully before moving on to the next. The hallway gave way to a door, and behind it was his personal office. The east and west walls of the room were covered fully by bookshelves, and of course, books. If he were being truthful, he had read perhaps a third of his library: most of the tomes were just for ambiance. Everything in Y'ahd's office had been purposefully designed as such. An atmosphere was carefully cultivated here, and he took some measure of pride in it. His desk, covered in maps and parchment and scales (for those who preferred to pay him in precious metals and gems rather than proper Gil) was a fair bit of a mess but implied he was a busy man. The chair he threw himself in was luxurious and comfortable, quite unlike the pair of simple wooden chairs on the other side of the desk. They had their backs to the fireplace across the room, radiating heat that would crawl up anyone's back. The lamp on his desk illuminated himself fairly dimly, casting the features of his helmet and armor into sharp relief. An oppressive air hung in this office in stark contrast to the bright, welcoming atmosphere of the room above- perfect for leaning on the desperation of those that sought him out, and wring more Gil out of them.

However, he was alone now. And as such (along with the task at hand), Y'ahd turned up the brightness of his table's lamp, dispelling the harsh shadows so that he could read without straining his eyes. Tearing open the envelope with a knife kept at his desk, the Miqo'te read out loud. "'Dear Master Tia.'" Already a disinterested tone was apparent in his voice. "'I hope this letter finds you well this day. It was with utmost condolences that I cannot meet you in person, but circumstances have forced my hand. I am a humble resident of the Silver Bazaar. Perhaps you've heard of this place; we used to be a bustling port, but times have grown lean these past years. We make an effort to improve our lot, but with the markets failing, there are those that would take advantage of the city's disinterest in our outpost and do us harm... and unfortunately, my family has come to be a victim of such ruffians.'" Y'ahd paused to pour a glass of orange juice between the slats of his full helmet. "By Oshcon, does this fellow meander. Alright... 'While our port sees little use these days, due to being too small for the larger fishing boats to make port, several days ago kidnappers docked and under cover of night, broke into my home and spirited away my daughter. What few guards we have cannot possibly be sent out to sea to hunt them down. I cannot give chase- i am no warrior, and I fear that without sufficient strength to subdue these fiends, they will do something drastic. Sir, I do not claim much in this world, but I have a modest savings of two thousand Gil that I would be willing to part with for the safe return of my beloved daughter. Warm regards, Hokotsu Totsu.'" At this, the armor seemed to perk up some- setting down the letter and producing a blank sheet to word his own reply. He wrote with a sense of urgency, before folding the paper up and slipping it into a new envelope. With a flourish, he stamped a wax seal to shut it. A handsome sigil, the Eorzean 'Y' was clearly visible in the blue-tinted wax. Satisfied, he briefly left the house to deposit the letter before heading off for bed.

Hokotsu Totsu's daughter did not return the next day. The only correspondence the Lalafell received was not a ransom note, but a curt letter featuring a single sentence: "You must be mad if you think I get out of bed for anything less than ten thousand gil."

[reyridinghood]

oh hailey can I get a meet cute between incognito prince Ben and Rey in a bookshop, I think I might die?

The Royal Treatment, Part I

No warnings apply! Ao3 Link

Niima was a cute town. Quaint. Quiet. Exactly what Ben needed.

Well, today he wasn’t Prince Benjamin Lucas Anakin of House Skywalker, heir to the Throne of Alderaan. Today he was someone else. Someone whom he hadn’t even figured out yet.

He adjusted his glasses on his face after leaving the little barbershop where he’d just gotten his hair cut shorter and pulled the collar of his Burberry trench-coat higher around his neck as he headed out into one of England’s rare sunny days. It was nice that he could walk down the main street surrounded by Tudor cottages and people who paid him no mind. He read every old-fashioned, hand-painted sign and took it in stride, wondering how long his simple “disguise” would work.

He had managed to evade his security detail and take one of the cars after the art gala with the British princes and left his Uncle Luke to deal with the other royals and the press. Maybe he was out of his mind, and he certainly had overstepped his bounds, but in all of his twenty-nine years as Prince of Alderaan he had not rebelled, not even once, preferring to bottle things up inside and further contribute to his own anxiety, depression, and anger from feeling the pressures of responsibility and perfection. He didn’t even have a playboy reputation to go along with his name - and how could he when he was so encapsulated in the business of governing? His father was useless - a retired American Formula One driver who just happened to get lucky meeting his mother after his big Le Mans win back in the late 70s, so most of the duties of the male monarch fell onto his shoulders.

His therapist had suggested pushing a few of his boundaries and doing something purely for himself before turning thirty. Though maybe she didn’t mean it in such a drastic way.

He had selected Niima as his destination mainly because there was a bookstore here that held a rare first edition of Emma that he wanted to procure for his mother’s birthday. It was difficult to buy gifts for a queen who had everything, so he had to prepare months and months beforehand to figure out what she needed and get it for her.The Sacred Texts Bookshop was a robust brick building that smelled of old parchment and firewood coming from the reading nook across from the counter. There wasn’t much natural light, other than the two front windows with creative Alice and Wonderland and Peter Pan displays for the back-to-school season, so there were many brass chandeliers with bulbs that looked like candle flames that gave the place a hazy, magical quality. Ben could get lost in here, forever, just among the rows and rows of oddly shaped, differently stacked books that made the shelves sag and sway and curve from wall-to-wall, not to mention that he could get sucked into the world of any of the books that he plucked off the shelf. But he had to make sure he didn’t. He was here on a mission, and as much as he wanted to abscond, responsibility nagged at the back of his brain.“Hello?” He called out, wandering among the shelves, calling out. “Is anyone here? The sign in the window said ‘Open…’ and I-”

He almost literally bumped into a young woman - tall, but still much shorter than him. He only saw her from the back, but it was a lovely back. She was dressed nicely, albeit in quirky way. She had a warm, peachy orange sweater with a polka dotted skirt that flared but still showed off her, umm, assets as she bent over to peruse the shelves, her black tights accentuated her shapely legs…Ben yanked his eyes up to the back of her head because he was a gentleman, mortal attraction be damned, and he of all people was raised better. He concentrated on the part in her hair that signified it was most likely in two braids, and golly did Alderaanians love their braids.His mother would love her. Maybe. Why was he thinking in these terms? He was just here to pick up a book. He needed to focus.He heard the faintest music - sounded vaguely 80s - and realized the young woman was listening to music. Not knowing how to approach her, he reached out and tapped her, awkwardly on the shoulder, instantly straightening back up out of habit as she turned to look at him. And she struck him with the most beautiful face he had ever seen.Bright green flecks shone in her hazel eyes in the fuzzy light eyes. The blush of her cheeks grew as she flashed him a dazzling white smile. “Ah…you must be Kylo Ren.”He had almost forgotten that was the false name he had used, pulling from his favorite obscure fantasy novel and hoping no one had noticed. “I-yes. Yes I am. To whom do I have the pleasure of speaking with?” He held out his hand for her to shake. That was what normal people did, right?“Rey.” She said, smiling. “It’s nice to meet you. We keep our rarest books in the back. Let me go get it for you.”He couldn’t help but follow her like a lost puppy, inexplicably drawn to her but also not really knowing what to do with himself. “How did you know I was Kylo Ren?”“Simple, really. I don’t get many more customers. You’re the first I’ve had all day - all week really.”“It’s lovely in here. I’m surprised you don’t have lines out the door.”She shrugged as she came out of the back room again, the prized first edition carefully wrapped. “Most of the villagers are used to us I guess. We’ll get more professors in here at the end of the year again, the back to school rush just occurred.”He smiled. “Thank you so much, Rey.” Before he could snatch it from her hands she shook her head.“I’m not giving this to you without knowing your real name. Did you really think I wouldn’t recognize the lead character of the Order of Revan series?”He sighed and smirked. “Okay. My real name is Ben.”“No last name?”“No.”

“Alright…Ben the American.” Thank God for him learning English from his father. “You passed the test, I suppose. Then again, your hefty payment will pay for renovations on the east wing of Tuanul Manor.”He cocked his head at her. “You own the manor house? I’m staying there. It’s a lovely hotel.”“I’m glad you enjoy it.” She beamed. “To you it’s a hotel, to me it’s my home.”His eyes went wide. “You…own it? That makes you the…daughter of the Viscountess of Jakku?”She giggled and nodded. “Aurelia Perdue, 17th Viscountess Jakku herself. I must confess I like the rhyme but the title doesn’t mean much anymore. Being a penniless noble isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.”“I’m so sorry.”“Don’t be. It’s my family’s own fault. My great-great-great-great grandfather made some poor railroad investments in the Nineteenth Century, his son had major gambling debts going into the Twentieth, World War I and the taxes it brought were the death knell to most family fortunes, but the real killer of the fortune in my lifetime was my parents trusting Unkar Plutt, the hedge fund manager.”Ben shook his head. “They left you with that vile man’s Ponzi Scheme debts?”“Didn’t have much of a choice. They passed away a while back. Car crash.”“You’ve been through so much yet you’re so…positive.”“I get by. There’s no use in complaining when you’ve got a job to do.” Her bright smile faded a bit. “It can get a bit lonely…But I have a good staff at the manor.”He smiled, regretting his every complaint about his own life of privilege. “Why don’t I walk you back when the shop closes? We can get to know each other in the meantime. I’ll help you however you need and you won’t be alone.”She pondered, looking him up and down before her lips ultimately curled into a grin. “I’d like that very much.”

Ben had one of the best sleeps in his life that night after talking to Rey. She was wonderful, intelligent, gorgeous, everything he could have ever wanted in a woman. He’d take care of her, make her every wish and dream come true, bear the weight of all of her troubles if he could. Despite her noble birth she’d lived a life of hardship, succeeding at every chance she was given and overcoming the obstacles in her way. After all that she had been through she graduated top in her class at Cambridge and was running a thriving business, pulling herself out of noble poverty and making her own name.It made him feel guilty for resenting his position so much. He vowed he would be the best ruler he could be going forward, and somehow woo her in the process. There was no way he’d let the Alderaan Royal Council hold him back. He’d find a way to marry her, to make her his queen. He hated how smitten he was being - she didn’t even show any sort of feelings back, did she? He’d have to make his move at breakfast this morning.His thoughts were interrupted by a loud, impatient knock at his door. He got out of bed, not bothering to fix his hair or change out of his pajamas or look any sort of official as he walked over to the door and opened it up.“Oh, goodness, Master Ben, you look dreadful!” Ben huffed as Charles Threepio of the Alderaan Public Relations Committee threw his arms around Ben’s shoulders and kept speaking in a rushed manner.“We thought we’d lost you forever, your highness, you just disappeared and we were frantic, your uncle and mother-”“Get off me, Threepio.” Ben practically growled at the man for bringing reality crashing back into his life, and bringing a very exasperated looking Rey standing outside the doorway with her arms crossed.

“Ben,” She said through gritted teeth. “When were you going to tell me that you are a prince!?”

[aromatickindling-blog]

So instead of finishing base colors on a work, I instead procrastinated by writing. It’s based off an idea for a sketch that I opted to ignore since I couldn’t get myself to draw it. Just a warning, I do go over a bit of battleground violence so keep that in mind. Well, that and how my writing can be stiff at times. It’s why I prefer drawing. The rest is under the cut.

The Order of Heroes grew drastically in size and power ever since Anna summoned Kiran. With the ability to not only bring heroes from different outrealms, but also revive them from death’s door after every battle, Kiran swiftly became the strong cornerstone of the Order. Since visiting the eternal sanctum and later performing the rite of blades alongside Askr’s royals and commander Anna, the summoner’s abilities in strengthening heroes expanded ever further. Unfortunately, as Kiran also took on the mantle of lead tactician on the battlefield, the question of her being attacked shifted from an ‘if’ to a ‘when.’ With these heavy tasks resigned only to the wielder of the Breidablik, it wouldn’t be strange for any Emblian soldier worth their salt to try and target Kiran.

    Prince Alfonse, ever the stalwart heir to Askr’s throne, took it upon himself early on to ensure Kiran appointed bodyguards whenever she took to the battlefield. However, everyone who initially held the position soon gave way to Alfonse himself. Much as he refused to admit, his own heart’s defenses unraveled themselves in curiosity to Kiran’s odd habits. Carving out odd paths in the castle to shorten time, bargaining with Anna to obtain odd spices for her own meals after refusing to show up in the mess hall, climbing the castle walls ‘to find hidden nooks and crannies’ much to his chagrin, cleaning the stables as an excuse to coo over the wyvern mounts, and even sneaking out with Shanna on her pegasus just to give him, Sharena, and Anna, and the other heroes a few gifts from town. She did stress him from her brazen recklessness, but every time he and the rest of the Askr trio sat down to a talk over her home-cooked pastries and drinks, he found himself relaxing.

    Ease around his new tactician, especially formed in the castle’s library where she’d take to reading on a high window nook, took on the beginnings of affection. A soft brush between hands while they refined battlefield tactics over a crowded table would cause his heart to stutter. Sharing a warm drink whenever he found her suffering from insomnia late at night always led to small talk where her friendly tone would coax a rosy blush on his face. In turn, he saw her interest through her insistence that he could blather all about Askr’s history to her; unlike his sister, Kiran would hang off his every word. She returned the favor with stories from her world. Not everything made complete sense, but her dramatic flairs in storytelling helped to brighten his day. “A symphony of mistakes by people considered unimportant at the time – funny, how that can topple empires,” she would often say.

    Her occasional gifts once included a book on Askran mythology, where she asked if he would enjoy reading it with her at night whenever they had time. It left him a little speechless, but he enjoyed their time together. However, with how comfortable she became with him, Alfonse found himself growing flustered around her. Sharing a room with her, no thanks to the commander’s antics, became suffocating to him. Yet he endured; getting too close any hero, including Kiran, would only open himself to the same pain he felt at Zacharias’ disappearance.

He found it funny, that his fear would lead him to open up to her completely.

It was supposed to be a small skirmish. Kiran was trying out a new form of surveying the battlefield: from the back of a flier.

Alfonse rounded on the summoner, straightening out the cuffs of his gloves out of habit. “Be careful, Kiran.”

“You don’t have to remind me, my prince. It’s always a given whenever we’re fighting.”

“Still-”

Kiran pointed behind her, where the imposing figure of a golden-scaled dragon turned its serpentine eyes on him.

“Don’t worry, Myrrh’s more than capable of handling anyone who tries going after me. Right, Myrrh?”

Myrrh let out a hardy breath of smoke. In her draconic form, her voice gained a deep rumbled undertone.

“We’ll be fine. My dragon form will see to that.”

“See? Heh, it’ll be easy to see any threats from the air. I’ve been practicing with Shanna and Cherche for months, so I know how to stay on. You have nothing to fear. I promise. Anyway, you know the plan. Good luck to you, Alfonse.”

Alfonse hesitated. Myrrh had shown her offensive and defensive power in the training tower. She could keep Kiran safe so long as she stayed away from archers. Kiran too appeared confident in her decision; most of her commands had kept them alive and well. He reluctantly conceded, placing a hand on Kiran’s shoulder, squeezing it lightly.

“...Take care, Kiran.”

She nodded, returning the gesture in a soft hug before running off to jump on Myrrh’s back as the rest of the team arranged into formation. Fjorm swiftly struck the enemy mages with Leptir, allowing Alfonse to take care of the melee units in front. All as planned, Kiran thought as she scanned the landscape on the back of Myrrh’s scaled back. Spotting a lance armor at the edge of a forest, Kiran nudged Myrrh’s ridge.

“Let’s swoop in and take that knight out before they get to Alfonse, shall we?”

Sweeping in an arc, Myrrh circled into range, letting out a powerful pulse of fire onto the now panicked foe as she descended from the air. In their eagerness, neither she nor Kiran had bothered to glance into the glade nearby.

One glint of steel sailed through the air, and Kiran let out a pained shriek of surprise. Myrrh, already halfway into an ascending arc, could only listen in horror.

Askr’s summoner fell off, unable to grip Myrrh’s ridged scales from the shock. An arrow protruded from her side, easily lodged in her flesh from the lack of armor she wore.

Alfonse glanced once her way, feeling ice seep into his veins. Desperation ripped out of his throat.

“KIRAN!”

His legs started moving on their own, in the direction where Kiran fell. Another glint of steel came his way, but Alfonse raised his shield to block it. One moment later, and the body of an archer met the ground with a heavy strike of Folkvanger. Right as the sickening crunch of another body kissing the earth roughly rung through the air.

Myrrh had been too late to catch her, and so had Alfonse.

Reverting to her usual form, Myrrh started to wail. Fjorm came over after finishing the rest of the enemy soldiers. She blanched. Alfonse mechanically walked over to where Kiran lay haphazardly on her side. His heart slowly, painfully throbbing, he gingerly took her into his arms.

“K...Kiran?”

He shook her paling shoulders.

“Please, Kiran.”

He shook her roughly, trembling.

She didn’t even flinch.

“You promised you wouldn’t leave me. Not without…

N-not without...” The prince felt his voice constrict in his throat.

The smell of iron started to permeate in the air. It only sunk into him then how his golden-scale armor had freshly-smeared blood. Blood with a reddish tone matching the ever-growing stain on his tactician’s clothes.

No

Why was she starting to grow cold? She’d never let herself become this cold!

Her form blurred; he found it hard to breathe at the sight. But he couldn’t help to stymie his own tears. Myrrh’s wailing, Fjorm’s soft sobbing, the sound of the wind taunting him: it all slowly muted as his mind retreated into himself. Kiran had left him.

Somehow, someway, he had lost another dear to him.

Alfonse gasped for air, no longer caring about his surroundings as he squeezed his eyes shut. But darkness morphed itself into the blur of a room.

Barely squinting, his eyes wretched themselves open – only to meet the darkened stone ceiling of a castle.

He was back in his quarters.

The same room that he shared with Kiran.

Heart still fluttering desperately, with tears still flowing down his cheeks, he flung himself from his bed. Moments later his body reminded him of the time, and of his eagerness. Thankfully a bedpost made for a good anchor.

“Kiran.” His voice gained a soft, scratchy tone from the trauma.

Scanning the room, his eyes fell on a figure on their side, apparently still under the moonlight.

The smell of iron faintly returned. Fear once again pierced daggers into his already panicked heart, causing him to move. Stumbling at first, he wretched himself over to shake the body with quivering hands.

“Kiran!”

He felt her flinch under his grip, and his reward was a soft slap of a warm hand to his own. His eyes grew blearly again as his throat tightened in response.

“Nnngh…?”

Kiran, still deeply entrenched in sleep, stiffened into a long stretch, pushing her arms against her bed in an attempt to raise herself. She blinked slowly at the prince’s disheveled form. Palpable silence reigned between them, as Kiran tried to rouse herself further, if just to rid herself of her hazed confusion at the sight.

She hardly noticed herself being crushed bracingly against Alfonse’s torso.

“...eh?...” It had to take the prince’s own heartbeat to fully rouse her from her sleep. It then became her turn to panic.

“A-Alfonse?! W-what’s going on, here?”

She felt his head rest on hers, before feeling a slight wetness strike her back. Her answer came in a soft whimper.

“I’m sorry.”

Hesitating for a few moments, Kiran moved to circle her hands around him, embracing him in turn. Rubbing gentle circles on his back, she stayed with him in silence, allowing him to calm from his small fit of tears.

Neither could say how long they stayed together like this.

“Kiran?” Alfonse’s voice still retained a slight shake in tone.

“Hmm?”

“Could you...perhaps allow me to join you whenever you’re training any of the fliers?”

“What’s this about, Alfonse?”

“I...I can’t bear the thought of you falling.”

“We have backup fliers for tha- ...oh.”

Alfonse broke their embrace to look at her pointedly.

“Nightmare?” He winced. Right on target.

“Well, guess I’ll just have to remind you how alive I am now.”

Kiran pulled him onto her bed with her, the prince stuttering in a fluster. Taking his hand, she placed it on a pulsepoint on her neck, before dropping it in favor of curling around him. It was the same exact position both had grew accustomed to over time whenever they decided to read about Askran mythology. At first stiff and blush, Alfonse slowly relaxed as he recognized the arrangement.

“Kiran?”

She looked to the windows, where the moonlight poured in.

“I’ll admit, when I first came to Askr, I wanted to bolt from the Order. I knew no one. Tasks were thrust upon me without my agreement.”

She chuckled, remembering how the prince met her after her botched escape attempt from Anna.

“I nearly ran off too before Anna dragged me to meet you. But if you’d ask me if I’d leave now, you’d get a resounding no,” She turned back to him. “Alfonse, you know why I’ve changed my mind?”

“You’ve become fond of the heroes we’ve trained with? Hopefully my sister too?”

Kiran slapped one hand to her forehand and snickered.

“Well, that may be part of it, but-”

He felt her hands grip his.

“It’s you, Alfonse. You’ve kept me going all this time. And for that, I’d never squander my life as recklessly as I once did. If anyone tells you I’ve left abruptly, they’re lying. I did promise you that one time, and I prefer to keep my promises.”

Finding the Askran prince speechless, Kiran smiled in assurance, slightly nervous over her confession. Nighttime made it infuriatingly easy for her to spill secrets, and even if it felt right to tell him, she still had a part of her growling over such actions. But in the depths of the night, those growls grew faint enough to ignore. And so she found it easier to express her fondness.

For Alfonse, that meant the soft press of her lips against his hand. Kiran quickly took to glancing away, reddened from embarrassment.

“S-so-you-have-nothing-to-worry-over-my-prince.”

Alfonse couldn’t help but smile at her cute display.

“Kiran?”

She kept glancing every which way but him.

“Uh, let’s see, it’s – oh. Yes?”

She looked slightly above him, still red and skittish.

“Could you meet me at the left tower top this evening?”

    Kiran froze. Alfonse was usually too busy in his training or royal duties to bother with the high towers; they were usually reserved for the night patrols and flier teams to regroup or scout out possible weak points. She and Shanna, later Myrrh too, had taken to using it as a meeting place to sneak away into nearby towns. All of them had been chewed out thoroughly by both Anna and Alfonse once they were exposed. But it still made for a great spot to view the transition of the hours, from the sunrise to the stars. Trying to mentally rationalize why he would ask that only made Kiran’s mind blur into a flurry of anxious thoughts. Good, anxious thoughts, somehow.

“I...I’d love to.”

Alfonse beamed at her, relieved.

“Thank you, Kiran.”

“Well, we should probably go back to bed. After all, it’s only-”

She looked out again. No stars left and a reddish horizon line.

“I stand corrected.”

NO SLEEP FOR YOU.