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tyxoxo · 1 year ago

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So excited to see your requests are open!

Could I please request prompt 51 and/or 62 with Jaehyun? The theme could be reader rewarding him after he comes home from a long day at work (or feel free to come up with something else!) thanks so much!! <3

[“I’ve been thinking about doing this all day." + “My cum’s dripping out, let me push it back in you.”]

warnings: light cum play, lack of prep, usage of “daddy”

Jaehyun’s jaw clenched tight, tongue poking through his cheek. There was no way he could continue to keep his composure in front of his coworkers.

Not when you kept sending texts that would surely get him fired. He appeared attentive during his quarterly meeting, purposefully sitting towards the very back of the conference table to read your messages.

4:34pm

daddy i’m so wet. what am i supposed to do while i wait for you?

my fingers aren’t enough :(

The best he could do was stare at the dimly lit screen, as it would be too obvious to reply. He mentally thanked his privacy screen protector, you being the main reason he got one in the first place. Your bouts of teasing were unpredictable, and undoubtedly risky.

Even though Jaehyun didn’t reply, you caught sight of the “read” receipt that appeared immediately after, with not even a second passing by. You smiled to yourself, feeling successful in your quest to piss off your boyfriend.

The angrier, the better.

You sat face up in your shared bed, squeezing your thighs together to subdue the longing in your core. If he thought it was difficult sitting there in an office meeting with no way to relieve his frustration, imagine how you felt.

You had already came twice in the span of ten minutes, from your fingers alone. Yet, you were still fighting through your racing heart, wishing for a more fulfilling release. It just wasn’t the same without your boyfriend’s cock buried deep inside your walls, filling the void of self-gratification that you chased all too often.

Even just the sight of him undressing would be more than enough.

With a hefty sigh, you decided to let up on your teasing for now, knowing he would be rushing home in the next thirty minutes. You could push through the “suffering”, as there was no doubt he would make up for lost time the minute he stepped through the door.

—

You made your way to the living room, sitting on the couch in the most provocative set of lingerie you found buried in your dresser.

You honestly forgot you even had the set, which made it even better for not only you but Jaehyun too. The only thing you could remember now that it was sitting snug on your body, was your fascination with the name.

“Periwinkle Paradise.” You whispered out to yourself, just as you heard the sound of the front door unlocking.

Expecting your boyfriend’s face to show that of annoyance was an understatement. Your eyes immediately drifted down to the hard on poking through his black office slacks. You couldn’t help but suppress a laugh—rather a snort into the palm of your hand.

“Awwwh, you had to deal with that on the way here?” Your tone was hellishly mocking, but Jaehyun would correct your behavior with every fiber of his being in just a few seconds.

He stared you down, eyes dark, and black. His tongue poked the inside of his cheek again, fighting the urge to toss his suitcase and thermos mug down onto the floor; not wanting to deal with the cleanup later.

He looked absolutely livid.

It was obvious in the way he didn’t immediately comment on your lingerie, which he normally did. To him, it didn’t matter what you wore; all traces would be ripped and destroyed by his hands.

He sat down his belongings onto the entryway table, almost stumbling to kick off his Oxford shoes. You sat there like a siren awaiting your next victim, excitement littered on your face as you watched him storm towards you.

There was something different about him; hair disheveled, pomaded bangs sticking up in every direction. Lips already appearing to be bruised a deep wine color, as if he had been tugging on them incessantly since you last texted him.

Your suspicions had been confirmed, when he shamelessly confessed as he captured your mouth in a kiss. You could feel his lips throbbing against your own, irritated from his compulsive tendencies. He practically threw himself on you, forcing your hands above your head as you fell back onto the leather couch.

“Trying to beat myself off while driving wasn’t a good idea. I ran three lights on the way here….I’ve been thinking about doing this all day." His words were met with a few pauses as the two of you kissed sloppily, tongues connecting like opposite poles in a magnet.

The emphasis on this was heightened with the way he began humping against your dampened lace, clothed cock creating the right amount of friction against your clit. It was like second nature to roll your hips upward, meeting his tip that was prodding at your panties.

“Did it feel good?” You spoke against his glossy lips, hooded eyes finally peering up at the blissed out figure that was your boyfriend.

“Not as good as you.”

He managed through the uncomfortable tightness in his slacks, keeping one hand wrapped around your paired wrists, and using the other to finally reach for his belt buckle.

He fumbled with the clasp, partially due to your disregard for his makeshift restraint. You raised your upper body, closing more of the gasp while tugging his bottom lip lightly between your teeth.

“Please hurry daddy…I need you.”

You whispered breathlessly, hoping his honorary title would get him to move faster.

You heard the familiar sound of the metal clasp being freed, and the enticing vibration of his pants being unzipped.

Upon expecting him to wreck you right then and there on the couch, he changed course, wrapping his arm around your hips and rising off of the leather cushion.

His strength proved fruitful, but you still accompanied him wherever his journey ended, wrapping your legs around his waist as you buried your face into his neck.

Thinking that the bedroom was his destination, was a solid mistake. You winced as he slammed you against the wall that faced the formal living room. And before you could stabilize your back from the harsh recoil, you cried out as he pushed your panties to the side and pistoned inside you without warning.

“Fuck! Jae!!” You hissed, hands clasped onto his shoulders, using counter pressure to try and rise against his length that you had no proper way of preparing for. He caught on quickly, bruising your hips in the process as he pulled you down, sinking you further onto his leaking cock.

Somehow, you missed him freeing his dick from his boxers, but your lack of awareness was warranted from his ruthless ragdoll mechanics.

“You think i give a shit about this lingerie? Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.”

His mouth found his way to your collarbone, biting down onto the raised skin. Your moans rang out, occasionally hitching with every snap of his hips against your own.

“Not laughing now are you?” He growled against the vessel that popped under your clavicle, waiting on a response.

“Answer me.”

“I won’t do it anymore, I pr-promise, daddy please!!”

All propriety was lost as you grasped your breasts, pushing them together right in front of him.

Giving him a show would be the easiest way to calm the beast.

The combination of his experienced thrusts, and your acclimation to his cock caused the straps from your bra to fall and expose your bouncing breasts.

Jaehyun’s eyes no longer bore deep into your own, instead, eyeing your chest like a crazed animal.

He brought his face forward, gnawing through your hands until you released them. Your head fell back against the wall as his tongue lapped at your nipple, creating a ring with his saliva along your sensitive skin.

His groans were muffled as he continued to give the same attention to other, responding well to the way you raked your fingers through his brown locks.

“So wet for me…” You almost missed his praise as he spoke into your chest, too busy wrapped up in the way you felt him in the pit of your stomach, an obvious bulge raising against your navel.

The build up of your release inched closer the more Jaehyun rolled his pelvis upwards, hitting the spot you only dreamed of hitting when alone.

You clenched hard around his length, trying your hardest not to giggle when you noticed his mouth hang open, eyes rolling back at your flawless ability to send him over the edge.

“Cum inside me…fill my pussy, please!”

Your whines intermingled with his balls slapping against your dripping lips as you came undone, wiggling your hips to gain more out of the release that cloaked your body in white heat.

All it took was for you to grab a fistul of his hair and yank back, exposing his quivering Adam's apple in the process. A string of moans fell from his reddened lips, meeting with yours in the ceiling above.

His thrusts were erratic, gyrating hips just as messy as your own. But it didn’t stop him from coating every inch of your walls, creating a crème that you hoped to taste and savor when he was done.

The smell of sex filled the air of the living room as you both came down, intoxicating in the most obscene of ways. You inhaled deeply as he exited you, being caring enough to lower your legs so you didn’t crumble to your knees.

“Wait, my cum’s dripping out, let me push it back in.”

He was quick to gather the mixture on his fingers, using his middle and ring digits to keep you full.

Your hands trailed down to grasp his tightly, forcing his slender fingers up to your awaiting mouth.

He actually managed a smile, the first since he got back, completely smug to see you suck his fingers clean.

“Oh so now you’re happy?” You teased, eyeing the dimples that adorned his flushed cheeks with a giggle.

“Happy that I finally got to relieve my blue balls.” He chuckled, switching off his sadist ways to end your eventful night with a tender kiss.

i hope you enjoyed c:

#jaehyun smut #jaehyun hard hours #jaehyun x reader #jeong jaehyun smut #nct 127 smut #request

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fluffle-writes · 1 year ago

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Twisted Wonderland - Alien Abduction AU

Alien AU where Yuu/Reader is a human who accidentally gets abducted by aliens when they land on earth. The human end up staying with the TWST cast for a while because the guys who accidentally yoinked them were barely able to make it past all of the galactic patrols keeping aliens away from earth (the death world) in the first place

The 'humans are space orcs' trope can be applied to this - aliens not having adrenaline or resistance to caffeine etc.

Some aliens are scared of the deathworlder human creature hanging around, some want to challenge them to a battle for glory, and some just wanna poke and prod at them to see what makes them tick (gestures wildly towards Jade and Rook)

Some of the guys (like Riddle, Epel, and Lilia) are species that are much shorter than others whereas some of the taller guys (Idia, Malleus) are larger species etc. which makes the height differences between characters more pronounced

Everyone can sort of be in the same space station for research work - the resident human helps with heavy lifting and small tasks around the station like cleaning etc. Whereas the twst cast all have more specialised areas of work.

There are seven main branches of the space station, along with a smaller group of general leaders, dedicated to different sectors within the station; Heartslabyul, Savannaclaw, Octavinelle, Scarabia, Pomefiore, Ignihyde, Diassomnia, and the Administrators.

Riddle is the head of Heartslabyul and is in charge of training newer members to investigate and explore new planets to search for useful materials and interesting flora and fauna that can be documented.

Trey and Cater are a duo who work on high-profile exploration jobs such as scouting for planets with life that can be approached.

Ace and Deuce are trainees with a penchant for trouble. They're probably the ones who accidentally landed on Earth and let a human wander onto their ship before they flew off again.

Leona is head of Savannaclaw and takes charge when it comes to defending the main space station and training the residents in his sector in both ranged combat and hand-to-hand combat. there's often at least one member of Savannaclaw accompanying Heartslabyul in excursions as protectors.

Ruggie is the most skilled marksman on the station and Leona's right hand man - he's the quickest to react to danger and man the laser cannons on the station in the event that there's a aggressive life form threatening the station.

Jack specialises in hand-to-hand combat and is higher in ranking than some of his fellow members of Savannaclaw despite being a newer recruit.

Azul is the head of Octavinelle, which acts as the main commercial face of the space station - managing the amount of cargo, where it's sold or sourced from, and managing the bookkeeping for the station. He's always precise in his work and never lets a single number out of place

Jade is Azul's right hand, standing in for him at meetings and conferences if he is unable to make it due to having other plans, or a sudden influx of work. His large stature and carnivorous ancestry makes it easy enough to intimidate business partners into working alongside the space station, preventing Azul's job from being more difficult than it needs to be.

Floyd works mostly within the station, assisting Azul in preventing any interference with the money or cargo within the station - such as investigating issues that may have revealed themselves in Azul's calculations or tracking down someone who hasn't paid back what they owe for any under-the-table 'deals' that Azul makes.

Kalim's sector, Scarabia, works closely with Octavinelle by providing a more direct face to the trade of goods - managing stores, warehouses, and stalls wherever the station decides to dock. His experience as the son of a wealthy merchant know widely across the galaxy makes him perfect for the position!

Jamil is present on the station to keep Kalim safe and on top of all of his responsibilities, meetings, and paperwork. He's the one who's kept Scarabia running so smoothly all this time - working in the background as he always does.

Vil leads the Pomefiore sector, focused on science and discovery - from learning more about newly discovered species of fauna and flora, to synthesising medicines or cosmetic products from unique properties found in resources they find. Vil manages the labs alongside an apprenticeship programme where he hand-picks promising students to train in the lab.

Rook is Vil's most trusted co-worker and the first person to have passed his rigorous training to work in the labs with him. He's particularly fascinated by creatures captured on different planets for study and re-release, with the more dangerous encounters being his favourite.

Epel is the newest recruit within the Pomefiore sector, and Vil's only current apprentice. While he dislikes being cooped up in a lab instead of being able to explore new planets or work alongside security, he is quite skilled in the sciences and thrives under Vil's tutelage.

Idia is the head of Ignihyde, the sector that manages the servers and intranet aboard the station, along with cybersecurity. His job is to make sure that the station can connect to other spacecrafts, stays safe from any hacking attempts, and keeps an eye out for potential up-fuckery in terms of digital security - protecting the money in the space station, and any sensitive information that's best kept from potentially dangerous individuals.

Ortho is an advanced robot created in Idia's likeness, who attends all in-person meetings in his stead. He is constantly connected to, and aware of, the statistic of the space station servers, intranet, and connectivity status - and will be able to not only notify his brother of any issues, but even deal with them himself if necessary.

Malleus's sector, Diassomnia, is quite odd in the sense that it has two jobs - both healing and combat. Members of the Diassomnia sector are in charge of managing the infirmary and dealing with any injuries, as well as assisting Savannaclaw against outside enemies through the use of strong fighter ships and weaponry.

Lilia is Malleus's right and and specialises in combat - often holding training sessions with any of the employees aboard the station, regardless of sector or species, on how to fight an enemy who may have infiltrated security and boarded the station.

Silver works mostly in the medical part of Diassomnia, often being found in the infirmary. While he's seen sleeping quite often, as is a quirk of his species, Silver is always quick to rouse if someone needs medical attention from him. He's also trained in rescue, able to carry injured people away from combat areas safely and swiftly.

Sebek, as the newest Diassomnia member, splits his focus evenly between both responsibilities of the sector. He's often seen training in different offensive and healing skills - aiming for mastery of both fields to try and serve Malleus as well as he possibly can.

Map of the space station from the Bottom floor (F1) to the top floor (F4) - subject to change (I'm bad at floor plans)

#twst #twisted wonderland #disney twst #disney twisted wonderland #twisted wonderland AU #twst au #twst aliens au

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babyjakes · 1 year ago

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〈 disclaimer: this blog posts content not suitable for individuals under the age of 18. minors are strictly prohibited from viewing, sharing, or interacting with this blog. for more information on this blog's commitment to protecting minors, read our full statement here. 〉

event | 5k headcanon party

requested by anon | That difficulty recovering prompt list got me thinking….could we have something with Steve helping his teammate who gets sick and tries to hide it? Like she ends up almost passing out and he has to help her? Please include lots of comfort! ❤️

warnings | reader is sick (lack of hunger, fever, headache, on the verge of passing out.) soft protective steve 💕

word count | 551

oh aww i love this trope hehe, i’m actually planning a scene like this further down the line in egem 💖 but i’m happy to write something for stevie too!!

i’m imagining you’re kind of like his apprentice. you’re new to the team and he feels very responsible for keeping an eye on you and making sure you’re safe. maybe you’ve been a little off all day and he even stops you at one point during training, “everything okay, y/n? you look a little out of it.”

you assure him you’re fine and do your best to hide your pounding headache and building fever. you barely eat a thing at lunch, your appetite completely absent. he raises an eyebrow from across the table as he watches you poking at your food with your fork. leaving the dining hall, he again stops you with a gentle hand on your back. “you sure you’re alright? you’re a little warm,” he comments. totally giving concerned Team Dad 🥺🫶 but you wave hum off again.

next is a team meeting in a conference room. you barely say a thing, just trying to keep yourself upright in your chair. steve’s watching you with concern the whole time. at one point he mouths, “you okay?” he motions to the door questioningly, asking if you need to step out. you shake your head and dismiss him again.

the meeting concludes and everyone rises from their chairs. as you do, your vision begins to black out as you stumble and barely catch yourself against the table, your knees crumbling beneath you. “woah!” clint says from beside you. “y/n!” wanda exclaims from across the room. everyone’s looking at you as steve makes his way over in seconds.

he crouched down right beside you and reaches out his arms, helping to steady you. “hey, hey, okay. let’s just take a moment.”

the rest of the team are backing up, letting him do his thing and take care of you. they all know he’ll insist upon being the one who helps and cares for you. “sorry,” you mumble weakly. “i don’t know what happened, i just—”

“no, no, it’s okay,” he cuts you off as he brushes your hair back from your face. “oh doll, you’re burning up. here, let’s get you up to your quarters so you can lay down.”

“you need any help, cap?” tony asks from behind you.

steve shakes his head. “no, i’ll keep an eye on her. could you cancel the rest of my agenda for the day? she needs someone to stay with her, especially if she might pass out.”

he helps you back to your room, asking multiple times if you need to be carried. he settles you in bed and gets you everything you need to be comfy: blankets, pillows, water, a fan, some snacks. he sits with you and takes your temperature, holding the wand in your mouth for you and gazing at you gently 🥺 “a hundred and one. you should try to get some rest, sweetheart,” he tells you. he sits on the edge of your bed and holds your hand til you fall asleep, then waits out in your living quarters just in case you need anything.

gahhh i just want him 🥺 soft safe protector, so attentive and caring.

#eun's writing #5k headcanon party #steve rogers #steve rogers fluff #steve rogers x reader #steve rogers x y/n #steve rogers drabble #steve rogers blurb #steve rogers headcanon #captain america #captain america fanfiction #captain america fluff #hurt/comfort #chris evans #chris evans fanfiction #chris evans fluff

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saccharinecoffee · 11 months ago

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Red carnations on a knife's edge | Kenuri

Pairing ◈ Kenny Ackerman & Uri Reiss

Word count ◈ 7,487

Info & Warnings ◈ Smut, assassination attempt and threats, royalty AU, king!Uri, knight!Kenny, sickly Uri, gnc Uri

Author's notes ◈ This was written for @ackerbondweek 2023 - Day 2 "Liege/Protector".

Read on AO3

Kenny struggles to parse through his insecurities, his loyalty, and his feelings, and ultimately lashes out. Uri is smart, though, and sees right through his beloved knight's inner turmoil.

Kenny Ackerman's shadow followed the King wherever he walked. Donning leather and cotton instead of an intricately decorated metal armour, he stood out like a sore thumb amongst the rest of Uri’s Kingsguard.

The Rogue, they called him in hushed whispers throughout the palace. The Ripper who once terrorised aristocrats in their neighbourhoods, mugging and killing and stripping their fine clothes for a quick buck in the underground. Renowned for his stealth and strength, courtesy of his upbringing and Ackerman genes, he was ruthlessly efficient at disarming whomever came too close to harming the King; a fact Uri dwelled on perhaps too whimsically in the dark of night to be appropriate.

But there was nothing truly appropriate in the way Kenny operated, from his rugged appearance to his severe attitude and rude speech. But Uri himself wasn’t the typical royal, either.

Perhaps, that was what drew the two of them to each other.

They paced and paced down a long hallway, Kenny’s presence staunchly at his side, lagging behind just a fraction to make sure his back wasn’t unprotected. It made a pleasant tingle blossom in Uri’s belly. He grasped his long skirts tighter as the fabric draped at his heels and trailed the ground he walked on. His nape grew colder as his hood remained down and over his shoulders, the ends of his overgrown silver hair tickling his skin as the night drew closer. His head, luckily, was light as could be. Crowns were never appealing to him, and neither were the extravagant embroideries his sisters and brothers wore in velvet and cashmere and expensive furs. A true traitor to his family and status, he was loyal to his ideals.

It must have been close to supper when the last of the populace had finished their inquiries in the throne room and the afternoon had dragged on due to his own insistence in offering them his support. Rod had left him a difficult job when he died, one full of hunger and despair and an uncooperative team of advisers who wanted nothing more than to pursue glory over the comfort and safety of their people.

This naturally meant they resented Uri, and deeply so.

Once in their conference room, they sat at a long, intricate wood table. Uri sat at the very end of it, nearest the door, while his resigned entourage sat across its length, paperwork before them as they prepared for yet another meeting. One that would be entirely unproductive, Uri pessimistically suspected. He usually had unwavering faith in the people around him – which was the reason why Kenny was now his knight and not another number in his castle’s dungeons – but after a couple of years of trying, it was beginning to fizzle into something weak. It was a faith born from both his own gentle soul and years of his brothers and sisters passing down their family’s ideology, even if some, like Rod, had never adhered to them. Irrespective of all of Uri’s efforts amongst his royal advisers, it ultimately led to nothing.

Kenny was a silent strength at his side as the meeting went on, their discussions going down a heated and vile path. They chattered and chattered amongst themselves as though Uri wasn’t even there, speaking ill and ugly things about the people he cared so dearly for and made his stomach churn and skin prickle with growing dread. He considered himself a patient man. He’d been trained for situations such as that. Peace, order and understanding were fundamental at all costs in a King’s rule. But that didn’t mean his heart wasn’t pumping harder, or that his hands didn’t shake.

“Everyone,” he said into the busy room. He tried to keep his voice levelled, but despite his anxiety, the words came out sharp and solid like a knife’s blade. It sliced through the chatter and quieted his court at a moment’s notice. Beside him, he felt Kenny stand straighter.

“If you have a problem with how I run this Kingdom, speak now, or leave at once. Make it swift and resolute, as we have many other more pressing subjects left to take care of before we adjourn for the evening.”

The room looked at him with tense, sheepish faces, some more pinched or bordering on aggravated than others, but Uri stood his ground. He never enjoyed conflict, and he certainly didn’t enjoy removing people from their assigned positions when they had blameless families to feed. But as he slowly came to understand, it was a necessary evil he ought to adopt.

“Silence? Really?” He stood up, staring down every one of his advisors with piercing violet eyes. “If I’m not mistaken, not two minutes prior you were speaking ill of our new allies. I thought I made myself clear when we would not highlight our differences, but instead our strengths. What makes you think it’s appropriate to speak disparagingly about the Ackerman Clan in the presence of a member?”

Suddenly, one of his men stood up, so fast his chair fell over. His fist collided with the table with a loud smack and his voice cracked as he yelled.

“They’re animals, Your Grace! They’re filthy, greedy animals and you let them roam free!! You must open your eyes and cease this madness!”

Kenny took a step forward, hand defensively over his sword. Uri pulled his arm out to stop him. When his palm touched his chest, he balled a fist into his cloak.

“You will not speak that way about Kenny Ackerman!” He said firmly. “As I said, you’re invited to leave if you disapprove of how I do things around here. I’m sure many others would be happy to fill in this role in your permanent absence!”

The councilman threw his paperwork across the table, blending with his colleagues’ own work and making a right mess of things.

“You need to wake up! You aren’t honouring your dear brother’s crown! You dress like the princesses’ maids and hand out our well-earnt money to the parasites and criminals of this Kingdom! What kind of King does that?!”

“The way we see it,” another one of his advisors said gravely, as he stood up, “you’re simply not fit to run our kingdom.”

A third stood up in a flash with a roar, unsheathing his dagger and leaping over the table to attack Uri. He wasn’t the only one, as several others stood up with haste and raised their weapons as they charged for their King.

He felt as though time slowed down as his heart leapt into his mouth. Beating, beating, so hard it hurt his shrinking lungs. They all got up with deadly intent, dark fire in their eyes as they let their rage consume them whole.

And then he was shoved back into his chair with such strength it slid several feet backwards and knocked what little air he’d taken in right out of him.

Kenny moved so fast his eyes could barely keep up. He grabbed the attacker’s sword-wielding fist and used the momentum to shove him with a force that knocked the man into a bookshelf. The next assailant was punched in the gut while his hand got crushed under the strength of Kenny’s hard. The man wailed on the ground as he held his crooked fingers as Kenny simply moved onto the next, then the next, then the next. Fluid like water, movements blurring from the speed.

None got close to Uri, his technique too precise, his movements too efficient, his superhuman strength too overpowering.

Uri shook in his chair as he watched the events unfold, hands trembling in his lap as his wide eyes darted from one person to the next in fear of being reached and hurt.

He barely registered as his guards stormed into the room and began arresting his assailants as per Kenny’s barked out commands. He could only hear his own hard breathing, a hand coming up his modest gown’s lacing and pressing over his hammering heart. In the distance, Kenny turned toward him, his expressions initially pleased, satisfied with a job well done, but it quickly turned to panic. He ran over to Uri at a hurried pace, shoving the now battle-worn room’s furniture out of the way with unnecessary force.

As he came within arm’s reach, Uri’s world faded to black.

His centre of gravity shifted, but he never fell. In fact, he felt warm and weightless for a long time, cradled by strong arms and hushed words until his back hit something soft and fluffy. He subconsciously reached for the warmth that was threatening to leave and mumbled a plea under his breath. He heard people speaking, though they seemed too far away to perceive their words. But one had an edge to it that made him feel a spark blossom in the pit of his stomach. It was gravelly and irritated, matching a rough but warm hand that slipped over his shoulder.

Slowly, he stirred.

His eyes blinked away the darkness and was greeted by his knight’s concerned visage staring back at him. It was short lived, the hand on his shoulder quickly withdrawn and the look on Kenny’s face hardening. Suppressing his disappointment, he gazed at where Dr. Jaeger seemed to be, at his feet. He held his folded legs up the way he’d taught Uri’s handmaidens to do whenever he felt dizzy and fainted. It was an unfortunately all too frequent event, but he was always taken care of, and always grateful for their service.

“Are you back with us, Your Grace?” The doctor said with a patient smile. Above him, Kenny clicked his tongue.

“What the hell is your problem, passing out like that?” He grumbled. “What kind of King keels over when someone flashes their sword at them?”

“One whose health simply needed a little extra help,” Jaeger explained with a lighthearted chuckle. “Right, Your Grace?”

Uri simply looked up into Kenny’s grey-blue eyes, his body relaxing further into his furs. There was a crinkling at the edges of Kenny’s eyes that made him smile up at his knight.

So rough around the edges. So crass with his words.

His heart though… It was quite different.

“Thank you, Kenny.”

He watched his Adam’s apple bob in his throat, lips pressed thin as his brows furrowed. With a petulant scoff, he looked away.

“Come on, don’t be such a grouch,” Uri scolded. Slowly, he began sitting up, using his knight’s thigh as leverage, who only mumbled further complaints under his breath.

Jaeger took a couple of notes, no doubt adding the day’s incident to his medical records, and when he was done, he inspected his heartbeat, his blood pressure, and took note of his findings just the same.

“I advise you to take the rest of the day off and relax as much as possible,” he said with more weight. “Keep someone you trust with you at all times as well, just to be sure. Make sure you eat plenty and don’t move much, lest you have another fainting spell before the day is through.”

“Is there anything I should do in particular?” He asked nervously. He wasn’t used to being stationary, especially since being crowned. “Just relax?”

“Yes, I believe so. If you feel like you’ll black out again, just put your head between your knees, or have someone lift your legs as I’ve taught you.” He packed his instruments and notebook in his bag and nodded at the both of them. “When you’re well rested, you should come over to my office to run some blood work so we can see if it’s just your blood pressure acting up as usual, or something more serious.”

“I promise to do as you say. Worry not.”

Jaeger gave him a bitter smile.

“I’ll always worry, Your Grace. It’s my job after all.”

Uri felt a sting of guilt. Grisha Jaeger was a truly fantastic doctor, who had cared more genuinely for him than any other royal doctor had. Much like Kenny, Jaeger’s daughter was an Ackerman herself, a lineage that was much contested in Uri’s Kingdom.Though once allies to the Fritz and Reiss families, they were deemed monstrous for their physical abilities and persecuted by the nobles. Centuries later, Uri came to power, tore that decree and burnt it, bringing the Ackermans out of the shadows and back into public life. He was surprised to find the man had kept his adopted daughter a secret out of fear, having presented his son Eren as his only offspring.

For this reason Uri had come to realise the gratitude of a loving father whenever Jaeger worried over his own fickle health, with sorrowful eyes and tight smiles. The last thing he wanted to do was disappoint him, but his duty as a ruler would sometimes get in the way. Duty often called, and he always found that duty hard to ignore.

The doctor bid his goodbye, reenforcing his instructions one last time to be sure Uri understood their importance, and he emphasised he’d comply.

Once he closed the door behind him, Kenny stood up and paced the room with a resigned look on his face.

“Kenny?” Uri called. He had no response. “Kenny–”

“You almost died!” He yelled. His eyes were wide and livid. “All because you just had to White Knight my sorry ass!”

Uri sat a little straighter on his comforter.

He’d met Kenny shortly after the Ackerman decree was burnt. One thoroughly stabbed arm and an apology later, Kenny joined his cause as his trusted protector. Kenny didn’t pretend to enjoy it much, turning his nose at Uri’s whims and keeping mostly quiet except to make superficial complaints. But Uri found it amusing, even if the rejection stung.

Now, after saving him from danger, after Uri defended him, he seemed perplexed beyond his imagination.

“I am the King,” he said with conviction, despite his dizzy head. “I made the decision of my own volition and you are part of my people. It is my duty to defend your rights when you’ve been discriminated against and slaughtered by my ancestors.” His voice began to waver. “It’s the very least I can do with the power I wield. I know it’s still not enough, but can’t you see the effort I’m putting in day and night?!”

Kenny only seemed angrier by his words, and Uri felt his heart clench.

“That’s not the issue, Uri!” He yelled. “My problem is with your stupidity! You refuse to see the rot in the people you’ve surrounded yourself with and you paint a nice big bullseye on your back by going overboard your saviour complex–”

“Saviour complex?!” Uri interjected incredulously.

“–and then you put a filthy animal like me in charge of following you around like a dog, almost like bait, like you’re begging for someone you reach out and snap your neck for treason.”

Uri balled his fists into his comforter, slowly stood up and walked closer to Kenny. His steely eyes softened with worry just enough for Uri to catch, and he pressed his palm against his heart.

“Just because you were told you’re worthless by the likes of my family and accolades that does not mean it’s true. You can live a life of dignity and I certainly can and will do everything in my power to revert the damage I’ve done.”

“You didn’t do shit, Uri!” He grabbed him by the upper arms, fingers digging into the meat of his shoulders. “I’ve lived all my fucking life in the underground and I could very well keep doing it if I pleased.” He shook him gently, nails digging into his skin. It didn’t hurt, though. Kenny was precise in every inch of strength he gave away, and was never if not careful with him.

“But you don’t have to!”

“Do you doubt my skills? You are aware of what I did before you made me your pet, right, Your Highness?”

“Of course I don’t doubt– You’re not my pet, Kenny!

He came impossibly closer, and he felt his balance falter. If Kenny pushed any further, he'd fall.

But he trusted him. How could he not?

“Oh, but I am.” His voice was dark, his lips stretched in a pained grimace. Uri could feel his cheeks blistering as dark red tracks bloomed on his skin. Kenny’s expression faltered. “Wha–”

Before he could continue, Uri’s eyelids fluttered as his knees grew weak. He stumbled, head floating and vision spotted black, but Kenny quickly wrapped his arms around him.

“Shit.”

Slowly, carefully, he walked Uri back onto his bed, laying his back out and bringing his legs – skirts and all – over the comforter. Blindly, Uri bent his knees, attempting to bring his legs to his chest to follow Jaeger’s instructions, but Kenny seemed to quickly catch onto his actions, sitting on the edge of the bed himself and hesitantly reaching for his legs, smooth skin peaking through his skirts as the fabric bunched around Uri’s thighs and waist.

“Can I…?”

“Yes, please,” he said softly. “‘m too weak to keep them up on my own.”

Kenny nodded and wrapped his arm around his knees, where they bent. He shifted himself up on the bed, sitting beside his torso and bringing his legs along with his arm. Uri felt his cheeks heat up, not from his blossoming marks, but from something else too intimate that stirred low in his belly. Kenny himself seemed to have been avoiding his eyes, looking between the pale legs in his leather-clad arms and the modest cream colour of his gown.

Then, he looked up, silver eyes peering through dark lashes.

“It happens every time those damn demon trails show up on your face.”

“Demon trails…? Oh! You mean my Ymir's Blessings?”

“Sure, if that's what you call 'em.”

“Is that how Ackermans refer to our marks?” Uri contemplated his words with a sadness building in his chest. “Of course you would... How naive of me.”

Kenny licked his lips slowly, gauging Uri pensively. When he spoke up, his voice was calm and quiet, contrasting greatly with his earlier outburst.

“When my mother told me about you people – the Eldians chosen by their Gods, – she always warned me about the marks.” He gestured to his own face, drawing invisible lines over the apples of his cheeks absentmindedly. “Said they’d show up when they get real mad, like if they’re going in for an attack. That’s how we know we gotta run. She saw it in person. Angry red lines like the ones you have. Like the meat under the skin is exposed.”

Kenny lowered his hand from his face, reaching over Uri and tracing a line down his King’s cheek. His touch was hesitant and light, but with the skin changed and exposed, it felt more sensitive. Uri willed himself not to jump from the sensation, but Kenny smirked, noticing the way his body tense.

“Is that how you see me, Kenny?” Uri breathed.

“Absolutely fucking not,” Kenny scoffed. Like the thought of Uri being a heartless hunter was beyond imagination. “You could never.”

“I'm glad you don't think poorly of me, despite my shortcomings.”

“Shortcomings?”

Uri felt sheepish and looked away from Kenny, smiling sadly.

“I'm far from an exemplary King, Kenny. You’ve seen it already. I let horrible men remain in my court in hopes they'd warm up to my ideals and work with me. It took me two years to be able to cease all persecution against your Clan, and even then, I don't know where to begin with reducing the social animosity and division now that you're no longer in hiding.” His eyes stung with unshed tears. “I'm weak, Kenny. You’re right in saying I'm too soft. I have to keep trying, but nobody listens, I'm–”

“Oi, oi, stop running your mouth like that for a minute and use your fucking head.” He clicked his tongue in aggravation. “This is why you piss me the fuck off so much. If it weren't for you I'd be dead in a fucking ditch like the filth I am! Don’t you see how much of an idiot you are for letting me even sit with you alone in your own bedchamber? I could slice your fucking throat and end your miserable bloodline right now if I wanted, but you trust me because you're just. That. Good.” His eyes grew wide and sinister. “This goodness makes you the best King this Kingdom could hope for, but it will kill you one day, if you don't sharpen up. You've tasted your second assassination attempt today because you were too good to take the trash out from your court. Who says it won't be the last?”

“Kenny... That won't happen because I have you.”

Kenny stilled, his wide eyes glimmering with something Uri couldn’t understand as his brows knit in confusion.

“Did you not hear what I just said?” He asked incredulously.

Uri lifted a hand and cupped his cheek affectionately, a small, private smile on his lips.

“I trust my Kingsguard's rogue.”

There was a lot left unsaid, words he wanted to speak into existence that died on his tongue in shame. But Kenny wasn’t an unintelligent man by any means – on the contrary.

He breathed out through his teeth, scowling as though Uri’s confession offended his palate, and he could swear the silver in his eyes had turned black.

Uri suddenly felt Kenny's arm tighten its grip around his legs, and in the blink of an eye, he was on him with a knife pressed to his throat. The arm around Uri’s legs came up and bent his back enough that his skirts fell further and exposed his skin, all because Kenny reached threateningly closer to Uri. He was a palm's distance from his face, hovering over him and grinning wickedly. Uri felt like there was a sort of desperation in it, something forced and deranged in the way his brows twitched, and his smile almost morphed into a grimace if Uri squinted.

“You trust me, you say,” he said darkly, slowly, and promising to draw blood. “How can you be so stupid in the face of a murderer? Do you have any idea what I could do to you before anyone even found out?”

Uri felt his cheeks blister. He could feel his fading marks blooming stronger and redder on his face as he felt the steel against his skin. But he remained still, impassive. He was lashing out, Uri was certain. He had to talk him down with carefully chosen words.

“I imagine you could do plenty,” he said, playing along.

“I could. I could slice you in the right place and have you bleed out before I finish re-fastening my cloak. But if I wanted to draw it out I could also toss your gown up and use your little body like the maiden you dress as.” His fingers dug into his thigh, making him take a sharp intake of air. “Your stinkin’ trust could have you done right here and now.”

His skin prickled, gooseflesh rippling over his exposed skin. It wasn’t just from the adrenaline, but the intimate touch Kenny had on his body. And he didn’t complain, he couldn’t; not from the looming fear, but because he animalistically craved more. Perhaps Kenny was right and he was a fool. A suicidal fool who lost all sense when confronted with mortal danger, like a moth drawn to a light.

Uri settled his breath before speaking. When he did, his voice was unwavering.

“But you won't.” Kenny's nostrils flared. Uri pressed his lips together, brows furrowed in concentration. He insisted, “you won't.”

“Why do you say that?”

“I just know.”

“What proof do you have?”

Uri looked at him quizzically. The hand on his thigh had softened its grip, his grimace had relaxed into a frown that was almost akin to a pout. He couldn’t help the bubbling laugh that escaped his throat.

What a stubborn man he was.

“What's so fucking funny?” He lazily grazed his knife up his neck, sending a shiver down Uri's spine.

“Kenny, do you take me for a blind man? A deaf one, even?” He asked softly around a smile. “You save me from imminent danger and carry me to my room. You argue with me over the goodness you see in my heart as you hold my legs, when I'm too weak to do so myself. How do you expect me to believe this nonsense you speak of?”

Kenny exhaled sharply through his teeth. Uri's hand trailed up Kenny's chest, neck and jaw. He nimbly tucked a lock of stark black hair behind his ear, smiling up at him, unworried. Because he was just that – unworried.

Kenny suddenly tossed his knife to the side without looking, slicing through a tapestry that hung on the wall, dead centre. Uri followed his extended arm and admired his shot with wide, awe-filled eyes.

“You're gonna be the death of me.”

Uri barely registered as Kenny’s firm hand held his chin and guided him to face his knight once more, meeting him in a searing kiss. His violet eyes widened in surprise, hands hovering blindly before the warmth of it washed over him, making him moan and latch onto Kenny’s wide shoulders. He was demanding and voracious, licking into his mouth, squeezing his thigh and trailing his hand up and down his neck and shoulders possessively. There was an air of danger in it that made him whine into their kisses with abandon, enjoying every sensation Kenny had to offer and only craving more.

“You sound so good like that,” Kenny said, voice heavy with arousal.

Uri only sighed, feeling a calloused hand trailing curiously up his naked thigh. His other one remained on his face, a thumb brushing over his sensitive cheeks and making him shiver.

“The marks aren’t fading,” he said, licking his lips. “Does that mean what I think it means?”

Uri squirmed as Kenny’s hand grabbed his upper thigh harder, so close to where it met his behind it was maddening.

“Ymir’s Blessings present when certain bloodlines of Eldians experience strong emotions, like anger or heartbreak, or when their bodies experience something intense.” He swallowed a lump in his throat. “Like a knife in the arm… Or arousal.”

Kenny grinned with mischievous eyes.

“Your Highness,” he said sarcastically. “If you’d told me you liked my knife against your throat so much, I wouldn’t have tossed it.”

“I– I didn’t–”

“Maybe next time?” He teased, reaching down to nibble on Uri’s neck, teeth raking his skin and tongue prodding it for a taste.

“K-Kenny, I was just surprised, is all,” he sighed, his body clinging to his knight as though he were a lifeline, as though he needed his body’s touch to breathe.

Kenny hummed as he tasted his skin further down to his collarbone, using the hand once on his waist to undo the lacing at the front.

“You make a mess of my head, you know that?” His hands were hurried and rough, possessive and greedy. Uri felt his heart leaping from the anticipation as he felt his fingers run down his sternum as his gown undid itself. He hoped to be touched further, grabbed by Kenny’s large hands and completely taken apart, and the sooner the better.

“How so?” He breathed, voice wearing thin.

“Fuck.” He sat back up and toed his boots off before crawling back onto the bed with haste and parting Uri’s legs. “You’re a living saint and walk around prettier than any woman I’ve ever met. You know how hard it is to keep myself from tarnishing that innocent look on your face you wear all the time?”

His hands ran up his calves and knees as he watched the way his skirts fell and pooled around his upper thighs and stomach, revealing the full extent of his legs. He gave Uri a look, a request for permission, and he nodded.

“I find it hard to believe there aren’t any women more fetching than I am,” he managed to speak despite the nervous lump in his throat. Kenny’s touch made its way further and further up his thighs, nails dragging along teasingly, a little mean, and making him shiver. “Perhaps the problem is that you just happen to not like women at all.”

Kenny chuckled, grabbing his flesh tight between his fingers, digging his nails into it more than he had to. The sting made Uri gasp.

“Yeah, guess that checks out.”

He shifted the rest of his skirts up, giving him access as he sat closer between his legs. Uri flushed as he felt fresh leather coming into contact with his warm, naked legs.

“You’re also wearing a shift,” he mumbled. “Just like a maiden.”

Uri nodded, licking his lips.

“It’s comfortable,” he said, feeling very small under Kenny’s large body and focused gaze.

“I imagine,” he scoffed. “And it means easier access for me, so I ain’t complaining.”

Slowly, curiously, his hands dipped under his small clothes, and with every inch, his intimacy was further exposed. He closed his eyes self-consciously as he felt his fingers trail beside his pelvis and over his hips, the cool evening air touching the heated skin of his arousal.

“Look at me,” he said sternly. Uri’s eyes shot open as Kenny leaned down. “Can I touch you, Your Highness?”

Yes, he wanted to say. God, please, yes.

“You know it’s Your Grace,” he said instead.

Kenny’s lips quirked up in a playful grin. If Uri were anyone else, he’d believe it was a menacing omen. But he knew Kenny well. The mirth dancing around his eyes as he looked down at him was clear as day to him.

“My Lord and Lady, you’re awfully cheeky for someone with his legs spread and his pretty cock out.” The way Uri’s cheeks blistered was nearly painful as he blushed deeper. “What, cat got your tongue?”

Kenny was right above him, a hair’s width away from kissing his lips, words spoken conspiratorially. Between them, they barely touched. It wasn’t a mercy; Kenny was kind to him, but he knew very well how much Uri craved his touch. It was his way of punishing his insolence, he was sure. And Uri would have found the role reversal amusing if he wasn’t leaking and trembling from need.

“Please,” he said, leaning up to touch him. His arms wrapped around his torso and lips chased Kenny’s own, and Kenny relented, kissing him back and allowing his body to weigh down on Uri’s.

Uri moaned against Kenny’s lips as he felt the stiff front of his trousers rut onto his naked arousal. He bucked his hips into him, their bodies moving in waves as Kenny licked into his mouth. He was lascivious in how he kissed him, be it the way his tongue swirled in his mouth or the way his hands and hips conducted his body and ignited the fire in his blood. Those hands cradled his jaw, ran in circles over his undressed chest and pinched his nipples. They traced over his sensitive thighs and grabbed his behind with lust. He spun in circles as spit dribbled down his chin between their lips and tongues, his voice echoing without restraints throughout his royal bedroom.

“You’re a dream,” Kenny said, low and gravelly as his half-lidded eyes took him in hungrily. He rutted down on Uri’s painfully hard cock and watched with sadistic pleasure as he winced and shuddered in his arms. “The King of Paradis lost in the throws of passion.” He licked a stripe up his neck and sucked on his pulse. “The King who denies marriage proposals every day, but lets an assassin like me take him like my own.”

“You’re my knight, Kenny.” Uri’s voice was rough from use and weak, his breathing harsh from strain.

“Eh,” he shrugged. He was grinning as he put some distance between the two. Self-satisfied and pink across his cheeks and nose. “Same difference, really.”

Without breaking eye contact he unclasped his belt

“Tell me, my King,” he said as he stroked himself. “Have you ever done this?”

Uri shook his head, his violet eyes jumping from the heavy cock in Kenny’s hand and the heavy look in his eyes.

Kenny hummed, looking Uri up and down as well and biting his lip.

“You have oil anywhere in here?”

Uri reached for his nightstand wordlessly and fished out a glass vial from one of the drawers. Kenny’s eyebrows shot up.

“I… I’ve only ever experienced it alone,” he said in lieu of an explanation.

Kenny swiped it from Uri’s hands in a flash and made his way down his body like a starving man.

“You’re gonna have to show me how you do it when I’m not here, one of these days…” He kissed over Uri’s hips, between his inner thighs, where it connected to his pelvis, and he could swear he could feel his breath over his arousal.

“It’s nothing special, I’m afraid,” he said, hand coming up to his mouth as his impatience threatened to spill more sounds of desperation from his lips. “It’s nothing like how you make me feel.”

Kenny clicked his tongue.

“When you say things like that, it makes it real hard to control myself, you know that?”

And before Uri could reply, Kenny’s hot mouth swallowed him whole.

He gasped, hands latching onto the bed sheets as his hips unconsciously bucked further into his throat. A long, drawn-out moan escaped his lips as Kenny bobbed his head up and down his shaft, while long fingers slipped between his cheeks below. Uri let himself be carried away by Kenny’s ministrations, feeling those fingers become slick with saliva as they rubbed against his entrance. When he thrust them in, he felt no pain and he welcomed the strange intrusion. Wiggling his hips around the digits, Uri sighed and asked for more. Kenny obliged and the stretch was, once again, very welcome. His own fingers weren’t very big, his entire figure dainty and delicate from head to toe, so the way Kenny stretched his hole beyond his usual limits, and at a better angle too, was a wonderful new experience. He felt fuller and the way the pads of his fingers rubbed at his inner walls was electrifying. He shivered, cried out with every suck at his tip and every thrust within his body, the pressure in his lower belly building as sparks lit up across his gooseflesh riddled skin.

“Please,” he sobbed. “Kenny, I’m gonna–”

“No you ain’t,” he ordered, his fingers digging into his flesh in a way that made his jaw drop. His body stilled instantly despite the pleasure, eager to obey the dark edge in his knight’s voice above all else. “You’re cumming with my dick in you. No sooner. No later.”

Uri shivered, but nodded, breathing steadily through his nose as he tried to keep his body reigned under control. That was, until Kenny decided to praise him.

“Good boy,” he said, licking the tip of his cock, voice rough from effort.

Uri moaned, a pleasant spike of pleasure running down his spine as he rutted down into his mouth and fingers.

“S-Sorry,” he apologised breathlessly.

Kenny removed himself from him, laughing breathlessly and shaking his head.

“You like it when I threaten you, you like it when I praise you…” He shoved both his trousers and breeches lower, down to his mid-thigh. Uri’s mouth watered as he watched his cock bob between his legs and Kenny did the same with a lazy smile. He opened the vial of oil and spilled its contents over his erection, lathering it over himself and giving him a slow once-over. “Sounds to me like I scored an easy audience.”

“I am not easy!” Uri argued, latching onto his skirts in embarrassment, knees bending to give his knight better access to his hips.

Kenny grinned as he lined himself up, eyes crinkling at the corners with genuine joy.

“Now ain’t that the truth, Your Grace.”

He thrust in, the tip of his cock catching his rim and sinked into him easily. It was a bit of a stretch, thicker than Kenny’s fingers and Uri’s own, but his body accommodated Kenny as though he belonged inside of him. He moaned something needy as he filled him up, inch by inch until his hips connected with his bottom. Once he did so, he reached for Uri’s legs and brought them over his shoulders, leaning further down and bending him in half in the process.

“Kenny,” Uri sighed, the position making Kenny’s cock press further into his sensitive inner walls.

“That okay?”

“Of course.”

He slowly thrust out, then back in, feeling for discomfort as Uri gazed up at Kenny’s furrowed concentration. His silver eyes locked with his own as he began to pick up the pace and the sound of skin slapping into skin filled Uri’s ears. Kenny’s cock rubbed against his sensitive nerves and it was overpowering, making him moan and tremble and latch onto his wide shoulders for support. And Kenny didn’t relent, leaning down to capture his lips with his own. He wasn’t gentle there, biting and sucking and drawing pitiful, unbecoming sounds from his King.

“You can go harder,” he pleaded between kisses. He was close again, all too fast, but desperate enough not to feel embarrassed at his depleted stamina.

“You’re not supposed to exert yourself.” His voice rumbled in his chest as he leaned down to suck open mouthed kisses along the column of his neck. “The doctor said so himself.”

“It’s a bit late for that, don’t you think?” Uri huffed in disbelief, groaning as the knight sunk his teeth into his feverish skin.

“You don’t know what you’re asking for.” He licked the sore flesh, making Uri shiver.

Kenny had a bad habit of assuming the worst of himself. He picked the most interesting parts of himself and turned them into flaws, big red warning signs to ward people like Uri off so he could remain in the shadows, on his own. It was difficult for him to show Kenny how wrong he was about himself, how every one of those weaknesses were strengths he should be proud of.

He reached for his face, cradling it and running his thumbs over the apples of his cheeks.

“Haven’t I told you already?” He said with as much weight and sincerity as he could. “I trust you.”

Kenny stopped moving as he looked for something in Uri’s eyes. Perhaps it was confirmation that his words were true. Or maybe his concerns lingered, despite his faith and eagerness.

“Alright,” he finally said. “But don’t come complanin’ when your ass hurts tomorrow.”

Uri wanted to protest, but found himself unable to.

Kenny grabbed onto his waist and pistoned his hips into him as he pulled Uri in. He was fast and precise with his angle, and his thrusts smacked into his behind with an intensity unmatched. It was overwhelming. His eyes fluttered half-closed as he struggled to focus on anything but the red hot pleasure building increasingly fast with every one of Kenny’s forceful movements. Uri mewled pleas he could barely remember thinking of, voice too weak to form full words.

“How’s that for you, Your Grace?” Kenny said cockily. “Feel good?”

“Yes,” Uri moaned without a second thought, hips stuttering against the harsh punishment he put him through as pleasure built and built and threatened to spill. Every second, Kenny’s body was pushing into his, rubbing against his walls, pressing into sensitive nerves, pounding so deep he could feel it rut against his insides. Kenny wasn’t a stupid man, he knew there was a limit to his strength before he did any real damage, but he must have had extensive experience if he knew the precise point as to approach the brink of danger without ever crossing it. And Uri, truthfully, was more than glad for it, if it meant he could always feel that ecstasy when Kenny was with him.

His spine bent like a bowstring as he came, pleasure racking his body and making him shiver violently with every subsequent thrust.

“Don’t stop,” he moaned as he felt Kenny’s hips faltering. “Don’t stop, don’t stop–”

“So fucking tight,” he growled, pounding into him as he chased his own climax. His nails dug into his hips, his ass getting further bruised with every hard smack of his hips and thighs. Uri whined and sobbed as Kenny’s cock rubbed his skin raw, making his body jolt and twitch from oversensitivity.

And as soon as his hips began to lose their steady rhythm, Kenny reached between the two of them to wrap a hand around Uri’s leaking cock.

He widened his eyes in surprise as he gasped. The brand new sensation was overpowering in its own right, untouched and spent at once and finally having its aroused, scorching skin satiated. He spilled again, barely registering his own orgasm as it struck him a second time as he squeezed harder around Kenny’s cock. His thrusts then stilled, growling as he filled him up with his seed.

It was filthy, but Uri felt anything but. How could he feel as though Kenny had dirtied him, when he’d never felt more loved? He held onto his shoulders and brought him down, feeling the warmth of his body engulfing his own as they kissed again. Slowly, he slipped out of Uri, allowing him to lay fully on top of him and wrapping his arms around his middle into a tight hug. Lips locked with lips and tongues tasted each other eagerly, fingertips playing with soft hair and legs tangling together. Once satisfied, they laid next to each other, still clingy, still lost in each other. Silently conversing the only way emotion could.

“I was a coward,” Uri eventually broke the silence. They played with each other's hands, fingers trailing over skin playfully and interlacing together.

Kenny stared at him, pensive.

“I had people in my council unworthy of their positions, people who wished harm on my subjects. I shouldn’t have waited this long to act on my beliefs. I kept making excuse after excuse, and all that led was a slow progress in my will of action and another attempt on my life.”

“Is this your way of sayin’ I was right?”

Uri chuckled.

“In a way, but you’re still too extreme.”

“Where I’m from any bit of good faith will get you killed.”

Uri grinned.

“Good thing you’re no longer in the underground.”

Kenny smiled wryly, but good naturedly.

“You’re right. Now at least I’m paid to suspect others.”

Uri swatted his peck with the back of his hand, rolling his eyes.

“You understand where I’m getting at.”

Kenny grabbed his wrist and pulled him closer, hand holding the small of his back and bringing their bodies flushed together. His smile grew cocky, with a tired edge to it that was nothing if not charming and heartwarming.

“Aye, I do. And I have something to say as well.”

He looked up at him quizzically.

“You aren’t the only coward here. I shouldn’t have tried to hurt you just because I couldn’t sort myself out.”

Uri pressed his lips together in concern.

“It must have been hard, carrying all that on your own.” Kenny’s eyebrows furrowed, eyes widening minutely. “I know things were bad in the underground, but that doesn’t mean it’ll happen to either of us now. You don’t have to make a show of it, to prove a point. ”

Kenny shook his head to hide the blush creeping up his neck.

“You almost got yourself killed, of course I’m gonna freak the fuck out. It wasn’t right, but you fucked up, too.”

Uri just smiled.

“Yes, I still have a lot to learn,” he said simply. “Isn’t that what makes us human?”

Kenny’s disgruntled expression relaxed into something more serene. The blue in his grey eyes shone against the light of his lanterns as he leaned in to kiss his lips. It was chaste and gentle, both things that Kenny wasn’t. The dichotomy pleased Uri’s romanticism.

“Aye, Your Grace,” he said when they parted, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. “I’ll do my worst for the all-too benevolent King of Paradis.”

Uri scoffed, puffing his cheeks and pretending they weren’t growing pink by the second.

“Why do you keep addressing me that way?” He looked up through his lashes, catching the mirth in Kenny’s eyes. “You’re just making fun of me.”

“I am,” he chuckled.

Uri looked away, trying and failing not to smile.

“So you’ll keep disregarding my rank everywhere except in bed, is that it?”

He kissed his cheek, running his calloused fingertips over his hairless jawline and into his silver locks.

“Absolutely, my liege.”

◈ ◈ ◈ ◈ ◈

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#aot #attack on titan #snk #shingeki no kyojin #kenny ackerman #uri reiss #kenuri #kenny x uri #fanfiction #saccharinefics #my fanfic

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asyouleft · 2 years ago

Text

For We Are Bound by Symmetry by kingdomfaraway

“I know we just met, Peter, but Tony is just down the hall and so very excited to finally meet you."

She was wrong, of course, Tony Stark was not excited to meet him. If he was excited to meet him, he would have met him at some point in his 13 years of life. Not now, not only after he had nowhere else in the world to go. Now he’s just stuck with him, unable to pretend Peter didn't exist, as he'd done since the day he was born.

Finally gathering the courage, Peter nodded and walked from the elevator, being led by the two adults down a long hallway. They stopped in front of a closed door, Ms. Potts knocked twice before pushing the door open.

Sitting at a small table was the one and only, Tony Stark. Their eyes met instantly and Peter lost the ability to breathe properly. It wasn’t as if he’d never seen Tony Stark on TV before, but this was different. This was not Iron Man flying around fighting bad guys, this wasn’t smarmy, grinning Tony Stark mouthing off to reports at a press conference. This wasn't the larger than life presence that loomed over New York, a protector, a genius, an inventor.

This was Tony Stark, Peter's biological father.

Peter Parker & Tony Stark, BioDad AU

#fanfic #irondad #spider-man #mcu #iron man #look a banner #never done a banner before #i'm a bit old school i guess #fic #a03

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clearcoffeecup · 2 years ago

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As I sat across the table from my city's superhero, I couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and frustration. The superhero, known as "The Protector," had asked me out publicly during a press conference after I had inadvertently helped them during a recent villain attack. While I admired The Protector's dedication to keeping the city safe, I wasn't particularly interested in dating them. But, declining their invitation would make me a target for both supervillains and paparazzi, which was not something I wanted to deal with.

Throughout the date, The Protector regaled me with tales of their daring feats and heroic adventures, while I tried to feign interest. They seemed to genuinely enjoy our time together, but I couldn't help but feel trapped in a situation I hadn't asked for. As the evening went on, paparazzi began to swarm around us, taking pictures and asking intrusive questions. The Protector did their best to shield me from the chaos, but it was clear that dating a superhero came with a lot of unwanted attention.

As we finished our meal and said our goodbyes, The Protector expressed their interest in seeing me again. I tried to come up with an excuse, but they seemed so earnest and genuine that I found myself agreeing to another date. I didn't want to disappoint them or risk attracting more negative attention by refusing their advances. It was a decision made out of obligation rather than genuine affection.

Over the next few weeks, I found myself caught in a whirlwind of superhero antics, public appearances, and constant media attention. My personal life was no longer private, and I constantly had to be on guard for any potential supervillain attacks. The Protector was always there to protect me, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was simply a pawn in their public image.

Despite the challenges, I tried to make the best of the situation. I accompanied The Protector to charity events and made appearances at fundraisers to show support for their cause. But behind the façade of smiles and public displays of affection, I couldn't deny my lack of genuine feelings for The Protector. I felt trapped in a relationship that had been thrust upon me, and I longed for a sense of normalcy.

As time went on, The Protector's enemies began to target me directly, hoping to use me as leverage against my superhero partner. I was put in dangerous situations, and it became clear that my safety was constantly at risk. I realized that I couldn't continue living a life that was not my own, simply because I felt obligated to date a superhero.

Summoning up my courage, I sat down with The Protector and explained my feelings honestly. It was a difficult conversation, and I knew it would likely garner public attention, but I needed to be true to myself. The Protector was disappointed, but they ultimately understood and respected my decision. We publicly announced our mutual breakup, and while there was initial backlash from the media and some negative attention from supervillains, the storm eventually passed.

In the aftermath, I returned to my normal life, grateful for the experience but also relieved to have my privacy back. I learned the importance of being true to myself and not letting external pressures dictate my choices. While dating a superhero had its share of challenges, it also taught me valuable lessons about standing up for my own happiness and making decisions based on genuine emotions, rather than obligation. As for The Protector, we remained amicable, but our relationship remained a reminder of the complexities of dating a superhero for reasons other than true love.

You are dating your city’s superhero not because you like them but because they publicly asked you out, making you a target for the supervillains and paparazzi.

#writing prompts #writing inspiration #writeblr

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mistypurplespark · 3 months ago

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Chapter 51: Goal

Chapter 51.1: Goal

“Aye, why do you two never change, always arguing.”

Translator(s): Ice

Editor(s): juurensha

“Why did you resign from being the Great Chanyu?” Chen Xing asked.

“I didn’t want to be it anymore.” Xiang Shu coldly replied, “What? I can’t even make the decision for myself?” He asked as he knelt in front of the table and glanced at the tea bowl. Chen Xing had already drunk from it, but he didn’t mind. He picked it up and drank from it.

Feng Qianjun smiled as he said, “Congratulations Brother Xiang.” “Congratulations to you too.” Xiang Shu indifferently replied.

Chen Xing didn’t understand what Feng Qianjun was congratulating Xiang Shu about, and he had an even harder time understanding the reason behind Xiang Shu’s “congratulations”. Only Xiang Shu and Feng Qianjun knew what the other meant. Feng Qianjun was congratulating Xiang Shu for relieving his own burden and finally being able to do his own thing. Xiang Shu was “congratulating” Feng Qianjun on finally getting married, so that he could stop looking for Chen Xing and acting ambiguously with him all the time.

“Did you find anything from your investigation?” Xiang Shu taking the rare initiative to ask.

Just as Feng Qianjun was about to report, Chen Xing asked, “What will we do if Shi Mokun agrees to give the Golden Conferment of Purple Scroll?”

Feng Qianjun answered, “I don’t think he will for the time being.”

Xiang Shu said, “I can’t manage what he does; he is the new Great Chanyu,

not my servant.”

Chen Xing murmured, “Fu Jian is going to mobilize troops to attack the Yangtze River.”

Xiang Shu impatiently replied, “How is this any of your business?” Chen Xing frowned, “How... is this not my business”

Xiang Shu shouted, “It’s you who was being incessantly long-winded! You want me to go back to being The Great Chanyu? Now that I’ve resigned, you’re still not satisfied?!”

Feng Qianjun spoke, “Aye, why do you two never change, always arguing.”

Deep inside, Chen Xing actually wanted Xiang Shu to resign from being The Great Chanyu, but later on, when Fu Jian could go unchecked in the North, the situation would only become more and more dangerous.

In order for Xiang Shu to head south with Chen Xing, he resigned from being The Great Chanyu without hesitation. Xiang Shu had originally thought that Chen Xing would be touched, but who knew that Chen Xing’s reaction would be completely outside his expectations. He couldn’t help the anger brewing in his heart. He sarcastically said, “Oh I forgot, if Guwang resigns, your clansmen would be bullied by the Hus again. Now that wouldn’t be good right? This really is too annoying.”

Chen Xing heard the sarcasm in Xiang Shu’s words, yet didn’t argue with him. He only said, “When a Hu dies, does it not count as another life lost? If they really were to fight, who knows how many people will die. This resentment...”

Xiang Shu finally couldn’t bear it anymore and shouted, “Then I’ll just head to Chang An right now and kill Fu Jian, fine?!”

When Xiang Shu blew up, both Chen Xing and Feng Qianjun were given a scare. Chen Xing could only shut his mouth and stop talking.

“Tell me,” Xiang Shu asked Feng Qianjun, “my current identity is that of the Exorcism Department’s Protector Martial God, so what are the results of the investigation?”

Feng Qianjun suddenly laughed. It didn’t sound too bad; if he considered himself an exorcist, then Xiang Shu and Chen Xing were theoretically his superiors.

“The situation doesn’t look too good,” Feng Qianjun thought for a moment and signalled Chen Xing to sit down and stop fighting. Chen Xing sat down with a complicated mood and listened to Feng Qianjun’s remarks. Just as he started listening, he felt that something wasn’t right. Did you have a change of heart? I’m the one in charge of the Exorcism Department, but you actually started giving out orders?!

Whatever, I’ll bear with it... I’ll settle accounts with you after Feng Qianjun leaves.

“After saying goodbye to the two of you, I headed east, leaving Hangu Pass, and bumped into Murong Chong who was on the way to Luoyang.” Feng Qianjun said.

That night, Feng Qianjun had quietly left. He originally wanted to return to Jiangnan but had bumped into Murong Chong along the way. Fu Jian had sent out a decree notifying all the people under the heavens, making the Feng family become the scapegoat of this perplexing case.

Actually, Murong Chong was already long aware of who the real perpetrator was, and it was impossible for him not to know of his sister’s attempt at vengeance. After the funeral, Fu Jian, in an attempt to show him some compassion, transferred him from Pingyang east to Luoyang. He was preparing to bestow him a new fief after a period of time, maybe even crown him as Henan Wang. It was just that because of the turmoil in court, he had to temporarily relinquish the idea.

Murong Chong led the march, and Feng Qianjun followed behind them the entire way, hearing no little amount of news. He learnt ahead of time that the body of Princess Qinghe was stolen overnight.

Chen Xing, “......”

Xiang Shu’s expression suddenly became quite complicated. Feng Qianjun nodded, saying, “Maybe it was taken to be transformed into... that thing.”

Princess Qinghe was always on Feng Qianjun’s mind when she was alive; it was love at first sight. But now, after experiencing so many things, his only wish was for her to be at peace after death.

Thus, after Feng Qianjun arrived in Luoyang, he went and found the tomb of the Nan Wang Sima Liang in the outskirts of Luoyang. Just as expected, Sima Liang had already been taken out; there was nothing in the coffin. This was consistent with the news that Cheng Xing had received from Sima Wei. Out of the eight kings, six had already been resurrected. As for the remaining two kings, nobody knew who they were.

Runan Wang Sima Liang, Chu Wang Sima Wei, Zhao Wang Sima Lun, Qi Wang Sima Xi, Changsha Wang Sima Yao, Chengdu Wang Sima Ying, Hejian Wang Sima Yong, and Donghai Wang Sima Yue.

Xiang Shu felt dizzy upon hearing all of this; he couldn’t differentiate who was who in this giant Sima family. Of course, it was no problem for Chen Xing. After all, these were all Han names- compared to the eight kings of the Sima family, Chi Le Chuan’s Shi Mokun, Barkol, Che Luofeng, and Carosha were the ones who gave him a headache.

“Zhao Wang Sima Lun was overtaken by you guys in Chang An.” Feng Qianjun said, “Donghai Wang Sima Yue was chopped into a patty by a little brother who I haven’t met yet."

“He was chopped into meat paste.” Chen Xing replied seriously.

“Sima Wei is currently thinking of a way to break free of Shi Hai’s control.” Feng Qianjun said thoughtfully, “We’ll definitely meet sometime. We can say for sure that out of the six revived kings, three have already been taken out, and the three left are still lurking in the dark.”

“En.” Chen Xing frowned, “So that’s to say Shi Hai’s Drought Fiends Kings’ Defense Array is already scattered. Whether or not we can use the Ten Thousand Spirits Array or something else to resurrect Chiyou is hard to say.”

Xiang Shu’s anger had also died down now. He frowned, “The other two kings must be found as soon as possible and taken care of in advance. However, we don’t know where they are buried.”

“Hehe,” Feng Qianjun smiled, revealing his neat and white teeth, and said proudly, “This is precisely Yu Xiong’s area of expertise.”

Chen Xing asked in shock, “They have already been found?”

Feng Qianjun answered, “Have you guys ever thought of why Shi Hai was missing just these two kings to revive? The reason is incredibly simple; because for him, these two folks might be a little too far from him.”

“Wait...” Chen Xing vaguely understood what Feng Qianjun was implying. He always felt that Shi Hai’s identity was shrouded in fog. If a corner of it was revealed, then it would be a major clue.

“It’s in the South.” Xiang Shu immediately understood.

Feng Qianjun meaningfully nodded as he said, "It is buried north of Zhongshan in the Emperor's Mausoleum."

Translator's Comment:

Ice:This chapter is basically a long train of deduction so I couldn’t make up my mind on where to make the cut for the longest time. Sorry that this update is a bit on the shorter side…

Chapter 51.2: Goal

Translator(s): Elestrea

Editor(s): juurensha, namio

In the past, the War of the Eight Princes had brought calamity to the Great Jin Dynasty. Each and every single one of the eight princes of the Sima household had been an expert in military arts and a professional at leading an army. Nevertheless, under the crafty empress Jia Nanfeng's provocation and own interest, they launched a crazy, bloody war against their own brothers in order to fight for the title of "Emperor." For 10 or so years, it was constantly "you killed me, and I also killed him." Jin's millions of troops collapsed completely because of this internal friction, leading to empty northern garrisons, which was used by a Xiongnu, Liu Yan, to command an army to traverse the pass. The final winner, Sima Yue, led the Chang'an court as well as the majority of army and civilians to flee in a panic, but they were intercepted by Liu Yan; they were annihilated. The Jins had been doing large-scale southward migration, and the event was named "the Disaster of Yongjia."

The Disaster of Yongjia had also marked the beginning of all kinds of Hu uprisings that lasted for nearly a hundred years. Still, when the northern tribes were fighting over Guanzhong, Luoyang, and other places, the Sima's family heir, who had reorganized flags and drums on Jiankang, wasn't idle. During the wartime, he displayed his formidable skill of using the "vertical and horizontal alliance" strategy, which made him not only succeed in inciting disharmony among the tribes, making them fight against one another, but also made him succeed in retrieving the country's imperial jade seal, as well as Prince Hejian and Prince Qi's coffins, burying them on the imperial mausoleum of Zhongshan.

"That's great," said Chen Xing. "That's really great! Wait, wait… en, according to what we've seen back on Longzhong Mountain, the revival of an ancient corpse and its transformation to become the Drought Fiend King takes about seven times seven, forty-nine days; this process must be very

complicated. In fact, there's no need to worry about destroying it. En… I think…"

"Clever!" Feng Qianjun said with a smile. "I've already dispatched some spies to keep an eye on the imperial mausoleum all day long. In case there's an anomaly, we'll be notified right away. At first, I was still hesitant. If Shi Hai wants to revive these two princes, he will undoubtedly send his men or even come in person. Isn't it more straightforward if we destroy the princes' corpses in advance? But, hearing Sima Wei's words that you’ve just repeated, maybe we can still guard the trunk to wait for rabbits…"

Chen Xing made a "hm" sound and came up with a daring idea. When that strange masked man resurrected Sima Wei in Longzhong Mountain, it seemed that because the Heart Lamp had been nearby, it brought about some change. In that case, can we use this variable instead? Make the remaining two princes rebel and take Shi Hai by surprise?

"I see that at least, up until now," Feng Qianjun said, "Shi Hai still has yet to arrive in Zhongshan to hastily resurrect the two princes. This, certainly, has a profound meaning."

Xiang Shu also made an "en" sound. Chen Xing felt a little baffled and asked, "What profound meaning?"

Xiang Shu folded his arms and pondered in silence. After half a day, he became slightly impatient and said, "I had just praised you for being clever, how come you became stupid again? The reason why Shi Hai leaves the two princes alone, isn't it obvious?"

Feng Qianjun just smiled. Xiang Shu looked at Chen Xing who was still thinking and simply explained, "Because south of the Yangtze River isn’t Shi Hai's domain!"

That brief sentence awakened the person inside the dream in an instant

—— the cause and effects all become connected in a split second. Longzhong Mountain was no doubt near Xiangyang, and so, the mysterious masked man invaded Longzhong Mountain when the Qin army was besieging the city. That is to say, Shi Hai's activity scope, up until that point, had always been limited to the northern part of the Yangtze River.

He can't get through?! What does "can't get through" imply? Shi Hai is a person from Fu Jian's side! Thinking back about the drought fiend chaos in Chang'an, the Yin and Yang Mirror that had returned to Feng Qianyi's hand midway through due to some unexpected turn of events… The answer gradually became clearer.

"Shi Hai is currently hiding by Fu Jian's side," Chen Xing said. "Who could it be?!"

This was also the truth that Feng Qianjun had wanted to find out no matter what up until now: Shi Hai's identity. Namely, the person who had lured his elder brother in and turned him into a devil —— this was his most important target for revenge.

Chen Xing couldn't help but sigh: Sure enough, a person still needs other people's help. Looking at this conspiracy, he couldn't make heads or tails of it, but unexpectedly, with the deduction of three people, it slowly surfaced and became clear!

"Other than Fu Jian, who else entered the palace that night?" Feng Qianjun said. "The Murongs? Tuoba Yan?"

"It's not Tuoba Yan," Xiang Shu denied and said, "Although I don't like him, it can't be him. It was a dark night, and nothing could be seen clearly. I only caught the sight of Fu Jian and several personal bodyguards. There’s always the possibility that it's Fu Jian himself."

Feng Qianjun said, "That possibility shouldn't be ruled out."

Chen Xing thought for a moment and said, "Let's not talk about whether Fu Jian has the motive or not. Do you think an emperor has the time to run west and east just to perform this big play?"

"Oh, that's true," Feng Qianjun expressed his approval.

"Wang Ziye?" Xiang Shu came up with another candidate. "Fu Jian always finds him to discuss everything."

"You saw him?" Feng Qianjun asked.

Xiang Shu recalled that night, but he couldn't remember whether Wang Ziye was behind Fu Jian then. The three people discussed it over and over, and in the end, Xiang Shu said, "So, based on what happens after this, we may be able to clearly determine who that person is."

Chen Xing's train of thought was already slightly behind Xiang Shu's, so he had to humbly ask, "Why? Can you explain it more clearly? Protector, I find you very clever ah."

Xiang Shu: "I dare not. Compared to the Exorcist who talked in circles during light intellectual conversation and fought with his words with a group of scholars, this Protector is only a little bit clever. How could I enter other people's eyes?"

Chen Xing had already developed an admiration towards Xiang Shu. He also really hadn’t understood what had just been said. Unexpectedly, Xiang Shu stabbed him again, and so, he replied in a polite manner, "A wise person reflecting a thousand times will make a loss; an idiot reflecting a thousand times will make a gain. One shouldn't be ashamed to ask questions once in a while ma."

Xiang Shu: "......"

Feng Qianjun saw that the two had begun to disagree and feared that it would turn into a quarrel again. He hurriedly said, "Asking Brother Xiang for advice."

"To resurrect the remaining two princes," Xiang Shu thus said, "one requires a large amount of resentment released by the dead, precisely like the war in Xiangyang. To have dead people, there must be a big war. In case Fu Jian goes south in the near future to attack Jiangkang, it proves that there's someone by his side that is inciting one. Shi Hai's identity must be a high-ranking advisor."

"Ah," Feng Qianjun actually hadn't thought about this, so he just nodded.

Chen Xing thought that Xiang Shu was indeed really clever. Today, they were reunited with Feng Qianjun, but the happiest thing was not the sudden

meeting with an old friend, but rather the change from their passive behavior into the opposite. Shi Hai's hiding place, once confirmed, would make them have a clear goal. It'd be easier to formulate a plan with that.

The scariest thing was to not know the enemy's location and even more, to not know what the enemy was. They had come a long way and had to pay so much for it, but their hardships had finally paid off. This allowed Chen Xing, for the time being, to breathe a sigh of relief.

Feng Qianjun still frowned. When Chen Xing was about to ask for more information, Feng Qianjun said, "Sometimes, it's not necessary to start a war if you want dead people. Jiangnan may look peaceful, but in fact, there is a vicious current surging underneath. You two have returned to Jiangnan now. We can say that the Will of Heaven works in a mysterious way."

Xiang Shu's complexion suddenly changed. Chen Xing, who was about to get up to move, heard what he had said and replied, "What? What's the matter?"

Feng Qianjun hesitated for a moment before he simply said, "I also don't know whether this is really as I've speculated… but since we're all involved anyway, might as well say it now. Still remember a soldier's body we found in Longzhong Mountain a year ago?"

Chen Xing: "!!!"

Chen Xing immediately remembered the time he, Xiang Shu, and Feng Qianjun had gotten to know each other. Xiang Shu had kicked a corpse off the cliff to warn them not to advance anymore. Yet, that night, Chen Xing and Feng Qianjun tied the corpse on the horseback, making the horse carry it back to Maicheng.

"The corpse transformed?" Xiang Shu's voice turned serious.

Feng Qianjun slowly nodded and said, "Fortunately, the situation isn't that bad."

That dead soldier's corpse, in less than 24 hours after it had been delivered to Maicheng, turned into a living corpse. The knowledgeable Maicheng

City's magistrate associated it with the folklore about the jiangshis' rebellion from the ancient book, and at once, locked the corpse up in a big cage. However, the coroner who had been inspecting the corpse, along with several soldiers, were scratched and got injured on the spot.

The living corpse was thus locked and sent to Jiankang. It was secretly presented to the Jin Emperor, Sima Yao, as to not alarm the masses. But very quickly, in less than ten days after the coroner had returned home, he became infected, fell ill, and bit his wife and child. Following that, many people were turned into living corpses.

Chen Xing: "…………"

Feng Qianjun said, "At that time, we still didn't know that the drought fiend army was that formidable. We shouldn't blame ourselves."

Xiang Shu turned pale and said, "What happened next?"

Feng Qianjun said, "Many people in Maicheng got corpse venom. Fortunately, later on… eer, it's not really glorious, but it has been resolved."

It was such an understatement that contained so much information. Chen Xing sighed, and Xiang Shu said, "It really has been resolved?"

"On the surface," Feng Qianjun said. "Last year, in the late autumn, that is, when you were in Chi Le Chuan, a small-scale plague broke out several times in Jiankang, Moling, Kuaiji, Wujun, and some other places. They're still spreading to this day."

Chen Xing frowned and said nothing. Feng Qianjun described the state of the plague: this disease's origin was inexplicable, and it came without warning. Some said it was brought back by the Jin Army who had been sent on a mission to Maicheng, while others thought it was an ordinary plague. Only, the strange thing was, this epidemic didn't kill anyone, and the majority of the infected preserved their lives, but, it was followed by signs of prolonged sleepiness.

"Is there a cure?" Chen Xing said.

At that time, Feng Qianjun was still investigating the imperial mausoleums in Luoyang, Pintang, Youzhou, and didn't actually see it with his own eyes. He replied, "I heard some have completely recovered. It's said that people can slowly get better by basking in the sun."

Xiang Shu thought for a moment and said, "It's probably okay if they can get better then."

Feng Qianjun had also specifically paid a visit to those who had completely recovered. He discovered that their actions were still the same as before, and there was also zero indication of them turning into a living corpse, so he decided to just wait and see for the time being. However, as the time went by, this plague was akin to consumption; they wouldn't get better, but they wouldn't drop dead either. Moreover, it was still slowly spreading to many cities south of the Yangtze River.

Chen Xing said, "Then, it's not alright after all. We need to take a look at the patients as soon as possible." Even though he said this, he didn't know what to do after that.

Feng Qianjun said, "This leads to another problem."

"There's still more?!" Chen Xing grudgingly said. "Can't you just say everything at once?!"

Feng Qianjun rushed to give a hint. "This matter has nothing to do with Shi Hai, Chiyou, or exorcists. It's Xie-daren, Xie Anshi's…"

At this point, the housekeeper next door suddenly shouted, "My Lord! My Lord! Someone help!"

This very much alarmed them. The three of them were just talking about the plague, and now, they heard a sound of someone falling down next door. Xiang Shu got up and rushed out like a gust of wind. Chen Xing activated the Heart Lamp and followed suit.

Only to see a hobbling Xie An who propped himself on the couch and said, "It's okay, I just meditated for too long and got leg cramps."

Everyone: "......"

"Xie-daren," Feng Qianjun bowed with hands clasped according to formality then said, "it should be the time for you to pay back the money ba?"

"What you guys were talking about," Xie An pulled his lapel, looked left and right down the couch to look for his shoes, then said, "I roughly heard most of them. This money affair ne, may I ask Young Master Feng to extend the deadline for a few more days? You see, I'm already this old, I can't stand the shock…"

Chen Xing was confused. He looked at Feng Qianjun before looking back at Xie An and said, "What? Not the other way around ba? Shixiong, you owe Feng-dage money? How much?"

"He's your shixiong?" Feng Qianjun was at a loss, "Isn't your shixiong Wang Meng? Why did it change to Xie An?"

Xie An explained, "It's like this…" He first told the housekeeper to leave, then said to Feng Qianjun, "Since you and my shidi are familiar with each other, everyone is on the same side. This money of mine, how about we leave it first?"

"‘Same side' my ass!" Feng Qianjun said, "You made it all sound great before. 70,000 silver taels on your behalf to support the Beifu Army. The legal document was issued; all debts will be paid off at the beginning of this spring. I don't need the 10,000 tael interest, but Xie-daren, please pity our pathetic Xifeng Bank. Our Chang'an property has been wiped out, and also, there are still many places in Jiankang to make money ne. What did you expect me to do?"

"Calm down, calm down," Chen Xing persuaded. "Everyone, look at me. No need to quarrel, there will always be money."

"That's right," Xiang Shu nodded in approval. "Chen Xing will stand on the road outside later; the money will come on its own."

Translator's Comment:

Ehem, WE’RE BACK! And we’re all fine, thank you for those who ask on Twitter I guess at this point we all can agree that Chen Xing and Xiang Shu will try to quarrel, anytime, anywhere… SOMEONE MADE A MEME ABOUT THIS BUT I CANT FIND IT

Anyway, we’re giving a mass release today, up till the end of Chapter 55, for a total of 9 chapters to make up for the last month. Enjoy~

Message from Ice:

Hello, sorry for going MIA for such a long time. Originally, I had just planned to take a one-week break for my midterms, but because of various reasons, I ended up losing contact with the rest of the Dinghai team for another three weeks. Once I regained contact with them, I wanted to quickly finish the parts I was responsible for and give a mass update to everyone, but a soon expiring visa and a round of school projects caused another week-long delay.

I want to apologize for the long wait and thank Elestrea and Zryuu for filling in the next three parts while I was gone… I owe them one (literally) and will make it up to them both. (つ⊂)

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the-hiveswitch-states · 6 months ago

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[ ✗System update ]

the inner world is stable but it's growing. our headcount increases by the day. weve seen some noteworthy splits including 5 new dammek introjects since last month.

me and the other managers were relocated after a power-hungry alter split in and wrecked our conference space. their demands were sort of impossible, they wanted to seize control and restructure our system's social hierarchy... we don't have one. nobody was hurt, karkat cleared the room as soon as they broke in. security detail worked fast to contain the tyrant and they're confirmed to be a xefros introject. i'm not shocked, no one was too surprised this happens a lot. they aren't the first xefros who tried to seize power... but they sure were the most aggressive case we've seen.

i dont believe they'll be... rehabilitated? for lack of a better word, it's not really an option without the persecutor status. they're just an alter with ambitious goals. i wish they wouldn't drag my source through the mud while doing it but it's fine.

the next documented split was roxy lalonde from tetrarch dammek's timeline. i mean host dammek, specifically... my moirails. roxy came in quietly and still regards the tetrarch with a maternal fondness. her memories have raised a few concerns about dammek's timeline, more so about his health than anything. i believe mallek and strife have recorded roxy's statements and are monitoring the tetrarch to see if they observe the same symptoms. roxy has taken the role of physical protector so i xpect we'll hear more from her.

a week ago host dammek asked the leads for counsel, including my superior karkat. the situation about host davey's fp (favorite person) was tabled and he asked dammek to choose whether or not he blocked the fp. i weighed in on it... i told the tetrarch i thought maybe getting rid of him was best. he chose differently but it seems like... it could be working. the issue of dave's fp has been a contentious topic for months, it's been the subject of rigorous debate and the case is still open. no one knows how to deal with it. dave is still kind of unstable, he's out of crisis but until the favorite person goes away we have to be prepared for him to go back.

the physical world developments were not easy to jot down. i struggled playing catch up. it's been crazy, i cannot stress that. um... i guess chronic pain should be mentioned. the body's acid reflux resurged and it's been off and on. we suspect the hosts irritated it by coming off treatment too soon. on top of heartburn, the body has pulled or strained a chest muscle i think. our neck is taut, our arms and shoulders hurt... the backaches have been insane. a lot of us wonder if this is permanent since it hasn't stopped yet. we were already a spoonie before but this is ridiculous.

we postponed our gender transition until the body heals. so yea... between the chronic pain and the borderline splits, we are in NO condition to start hormones. our therapist doesn't believe davey has bpd. i'm frustrated about it, i think if they could see how dave is acting every day they would seriously reconsider dying on that hill. i'm not kidding. i'm concerned. we talk about this too often, and even host dammek is a little more depressed than usual. i'm scared for my moirails... the thought that no one in the physical world is helping us makes me...

i think there's a real chance someone will do something drastic. i don't have bpd. i can't relate to anything my moirail is feeling and he's not even the only case. host dammek has bpd traits but they're managed. my kismesis tetrarch d also has bpd, i guess the signs were there but i'm not worried about him since strife never leaves him alone too long.

davey meets with our therapist monday morning, i'm crossing my fingers and hoping they see what we do.

i have more developments but im dissociating really bad... i might stop for now. the screen looks too blurry.

-Xefros Tritoh (manager)

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podlabstudios · 9 months ago

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How To Setup A Podcast Studio – My thoughts and what I did for a Pro recording environment.

Embarking on the journey to create PodLab Studios, nestled within Westland, Michigan, was an adventure rooted in a singular vision: to meld unparalleled audiovisual quality with a workspace that stirs the creative spirit. Each piece of equipment and every decorative choice was handpicked not only for its technical merit but for its contribution to an atmosphere where creativity knows no bounds. The essence of our studio lies in this meticulously curated collection, where functionality meets inspiration. In this opening statement, let’s explore the rationale behind the selection of key pieces that together form the lifeblood of PodLab Studios.

Sound and Vision

Central to our auditory experience is the Rode PodMic, chosen for its exceptional audio clarity, ensuring that every podcast episode we produce is of the highest quality. Complementing this auditory excellence, the Neewer cb60 RGB and Neewer 2pack 660 PRO RGB LED Video Light CRI 97+ illuminate our space not just physically but metaphorically, enhancing both the visual appeal of our recordings and the ambiance of our creative environment.

Ambiance and Aesthetics

The visual tone of PodLab Studios is set by the Art3d wall panels 12×12 black and StickGoo 3d wall panels white, which do more than just soundproofing; they add a layer of modern aesthetic that makes our studio not only a place to work but to thrive. The Padcaster Parrot Teleprompter Kit is another pivotal choice, streamlining our video production process and ensuring our message is delivered with precision.

Lighting and Adaptability

Light shaping is crucial, achieved through Neewer Foldable softbox diffuser and Neewer Larger Softbox diffuser, which soften and sculpt the light, creating the perfect mood for each session. The Neewer 2pk Triangle Wall mounting boom and Neewer 26” Lantern softbox offer versatility and control over our lighting, enabling us to capture every moment in its best light.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Acknowledging the long hours that go into podcast production, the Dreamsir Office Chair was selected for its ergonomic design, ensuring comfort throughout the creative process. Similarly, the Rode PSA1+ Boom Arm and accompanying Mic stand provide flexibility and ease of use, crucial for maintaining a fluid and dynamic recording environment.

Technical Excellence

The backbone of our studio’s technical setup includes the Rode Rodecaster Pro II for its unmatched audio mixing capabilities, and the Neewer 31.5” Motorized Camera Slider VS-80WC along with its updated version for phone compatibility, enhancing our video production with smooth, cinematic shots. The Sound Dance Laptop Stand and QianLink Headphone Extension Cable 2pk exemplify our attention to detail, ensuring every piece of equipment enhances our workflow and productivity.

Connectivity and Power

Essential for seamless connectivity, the UVOOI 8K Long Hdmi Cable 48Gbps and JSaux 8k hdmi cables 10Ft ensure our equipment communicates without fault, backed by the reliable Trond Surge Protector that powers our studio safely and efficiently.

Decorative Touches

Finally, the ambiance of PodLab Studios is softened and enriched by decorative elements such as Candles, Floor Lamps, and a 5.2 artificial palm tree, creating a welcoming environment that stimulates creativity. Enhanced by Govee RGBIC Led Strip lights 16.4ft and Govee Strip light for tv, our studio not only sounds but also looks the part, inviting podcasters into a space designed for innovation.

This photo captures the essence of PodLab Studios in Metro Detroit, showcasing a modern conference table set against a backdrop of sophisticated podcast equipment.

The space is thoughtfully designed for collaboration and creativity, equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual gear, reflecting a commitment to providing an unparalleled recording experience for podcasters and content creators in a dynamic, professional environment.

Camera Gear:

In the realm of podcasting, where audio content reigns supreme, the inclusion of high-quality video content can significantly amplify a podcast’s appeal and audience engagement. At PodLab Studios, we’ve taken our podcasting venture a step further by integrating cutting-edge video recording gear into our setup, notably the Canon R5 and R6 cameras. These cameras are lauded for their remarkable video quality, durability, and the ability to film for extended periods without overheating—a crucial feature for long-form content creation.

Canon R5 and R6: A Game-Changer for Podcasting

The Canon R5 and R6 have become indispensable tools in our studio for several reasons. Their ability to capture 4K video not only elevates the visual quality of our podcasts but also ensures that our content is future-proof. However, the standout feature for our podcasting needs is their capability to film for hours on end through a straight feed, thanks to the Neewer Dummy Battery for Canon. This continuous power solution eliminates the worry of batteries dying mid-recording, ensuring uninterrupted filming of even the most extended interviews or discussions.

Ensuring Uninterrupted Power and Efficiency

The Neewer Dummy Battery for Canon and the Neewer Np-FZ100 Dummy Battery For Sony a7, a7s III, a7 series are pivotal in achieving this feat. By providing a direct power supply from an AC outlet, these dummy batteries allow our cameras to keep rolling without the typical constraints of battery life. This setup is especially beneficial during live-streamed sessions or when recording back-to-back episodes, where stopping to change batteries is not an option.

Stabilizing and Protecting Our Gear

To complement these cameras, the SmallRig Camera Cable Clamp and Small Rig Camera Cage kits for both Canon and Sony models offer the dual benefits of protection and functionality. The cages safeguard our valuable cameras from the rigors of studio use while providing numerous mounting points for accessories—be it microphones, monitors, or lighting equipment. This setup not only enhances the versatility of our shooting arrangements but also ensures that our gear remains secure and stable throughout the recording process.

The Half Cage solution for Canon R5, R6, C presents a cost-effective alternative without compromising on functionality. It offers sufficient protection and accessory mounting options for creators on a budget, demonstrating that high-quality podcast video production can be accessible and practical.

Conclusion: Elevating Podcast Production to Cinematic Heights

Incorporating the Canon R5 and R6 into PodLab Studios’ setup, complemented by essential accessories like dummy batteries and camera cages, has propelled our podcast production to cinematic heights. This strategic choice not only enhances the quality and reliability of our video content but also underscores our commitment to delivering an immersive and engaging podcasting experience. As we continue to explore the possibilities within the podcasting and vidcasting sphere, the integration of such high-caliber equipment ensures that PodLab Studios remains at the forefront of digital storytelling, ready to captivate audiences with both our audio and visual narratives.

Lighting and Sliders:

In the immersive world of podcasting and vidcasting, the visual component plays a crucial role in captivating the audience’s attention. At PodLab Studios, we’ve meticulously crafted a lighting and camera setup that not only enhances the quality of our content but also imbues it with a cinematic feel. This setup includes a combination of stable camera positions and dynamic movement, achieved through the integration of state-of-the-art sliding gear and sophisticated lighting solutions.

Dynamic Visuals with Sliding Gear

Central to achieving this dynamic visual storytelling is the Neewer 31.5” Motorized Camera Slider VS-80WC model. This slider has been instrumental in adding fluid motion to our shots, creating a more engaging and professional feel. The ability to automate camera movements adds an extra layer of polish to our video content, making interviews and discussions more lively and visually appealing. However, in hindsight, I found myself wishing for the Updated Camera Slider (ER1-80), which offers the convenience of smartphone control over the traditional remote that relies on an older Sony battery. This updated model would have provided us with greater flexibility and ease of use, highlighting the importance of staying abreast with the latest advancements in technology.

Illuminating Content with Sophisticated Lighting

Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the tone and mood of our content. The Neewer cb60 RGB and Neewer 2pack 660 PRO RGB LED Video Light CRI 97+ are cornerstone elements of our lighting setup, offering a vast spectrum of colors and intensities. These lights not only illuminate our subjects but also allow us to creatively play with colors, enhancing the visual appeal of our podcasts and creating distinctive looks for different segments or themes.

To further refine the quality of light and ensure it complements our subjects, we incorporate Neewer Foldable softbox diffuser and Neewer Larger Softbox diffuser. These diffusers soften the light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more flattering appearance for our hosts and guests. The Neewer 2pk Triangle Wall mounting boom and Neewer 26” Lantern softbox add versatility to our setup, enabling us to position lights in optimal locations and control the direction and quality of light with precision.

Achieving Cinematic Quality

The combination of our sliding gear and sophisticated lighting setup allows us to produce content that transcends the typical podcast format, venturing into the realm of cinematic production. With two cameras mounted on stable platforms and one on the slider, we can capture a variety of angles and movements that keep the viewer engaged. This setup not only elevates the production value of our content but also sets PodLab Studios apart in the competitive landscape of digital content creation.

Conclusion: Crafting a Unique Visual Identity

Through the deliberate selection and integration of the Neewer Motorized Camera Sliders, RGB LED Video Lights, and various lighting diffusers, PodLab Studios has created a signature visual style that complements our audio content. This approach to podcast and vidcast production not only enhances the viewer’s experience but also reinforces our commitment to quality and innovation. As we continue to explore the possibilities within the visual domain, our goal remains to captivate our audience with content that is both informative and visually stimulating, solidifying PodLab Studios’ position as a leader in the digital storytelling space.

Capture Your Voice: Pro Audio and Video switcher Gear

In the heart of PodLab Studios, the synergy between our audio equipment and video production tools sets the foundation for a premium podcasting experience. Central to this experience are the Rodecaster Pro II, Rode PodMics, and Rode PSA1+ Boom Arms, complemented by the precision of Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro ISO for video switching. This combination, along with the integration of software like OBS Studio, empowers us to deliver content that is not only sonically rich but visually compelling, providing our clients with a product that stands out in the crowded digital landscape.

The Rodecaster Pro II: A Podcasting Powerhouse

The Rodecaster Pro II serves as the nerve center of our audio operations. This revolutionary mixer is designed specifically for podcasting, offering an intuitive interface, superior sound quality, and a range of features that cater to both seasoned podcasters and newcomers alike. Its multitrack recording capability, coupled with programmable sound pads for live sound effects and jingles, makes producing dynamic and engaging podcasts effortless.

Rode PodMics and PSA1+ Boom Arms: Perfect Harmony

Complementing the Rodecaster Pro II are the Rode PodMics, renowned for their broadcast-quality sound. These dynamic microphones capture the nuances of the human voice with remarkable clarity and warmth, making them an ideal choice for podcasting. Mounted on Rode PSA1+ Boom Arms, these mics can be easily positioned for optimal sound capture, ensuring comfort and flexibility during recording sessions. This setup guarantees that our hosts and guests can focus on their conversation, free from the constraints of static microphones.

Enhancing the Experience with Headphones

Critical to monitoring the audio quality during recording and live streaming are professional-grade headphones. These headphones provide clear, detailed sound, allowing for precise adjustments to levels and mix on the fly. This immediate feedback loop is crucial for maintaining the high audio standards PodLab Studios is known for.

Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro ISO: Revolutionizing Video Production

The inclusion of the Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro ISO elevates our video production capabilities. This powerful video switcher not only enables live switching between multiple video sources, creating a dynamic viewing experience but also records each input as a separate file. This feature is invaluable, offering our clients the unique advantage of receiving raw files immediately after recording. Whether for post-production edits or multi-platform distribution, this level of flexibility and efficiency is unparalleled.

Seamless Integration with OBS Studio

When paired with software like OBS Studio or OBS Live, our setup transforms into a broadcasting powerhouse. These platforms allow for the incorporation of overlays, lower-thirds, and other graphics, further enhancing the professional quality of the podcast. The ability to stream live to various platforms while recording a high-quality version for later upload means that our content can reach audiences wherever they are, in the best possible format.

Conclusion: Crafting Exceptional Podcasts with Cutting-Edge Tools

At PodLab Studios, the combination of the Rodecaster Pro II, Rode PodMics, Rode PSA1+ Boom Arms, professional headphones, and the Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro ISO creates an ecosystem that is perfectly tuned for the creation of exceptional podcasts. This setup ensures that every episode we produce not only sounds great but also looks professional, offering our clients a competitive edge in their content creation endeavors. By leveraging these tools in conjunction with advanced software solutions, we’re able to offer a comprehensive service that encompasses all aspects of podcast production, from audio to video, live streaming to post-production, setting a new standard for what audiences can expect from podcast content.

A Flexible Design For All Clients:

In crafting the PodLab Studios environment, nestled in the bustling west side of the metro-detroit area, a meticulous blend of sound engineering and design innovation was essential. The studio’s layout and aesthetic choices reflect a deep understanding of the dynamic nature of podcasting, where both audio clarity and visual appeal play pivotal roles in creating compelling content.

Striking a Balance Between Acoustic Excellence and Visual Appeal

Central to achieving this balance is the strategic deployment of acoustic foam across the studio. This not only ensures that sound quality remains pristine, minimizing echoes and unwanted noise but also contributes to the studio’s overall aesthetic. Complementing this are the visually striking StickGoo tiles and 3D wall panels, which add texture and depth to the studio’s visual landscape while enhancing its acoustic properties.

Innovative Design for Dynamic Spaces

The studio’s design incorporates 4-foot extension walls on each side of the 16-foot stage, equipped with hinges for adjustable positioning. This innovative feature allows for the creation of a more intimate recording environment or a broader, open space, depending on the podcast’s requirements. The flexibility offered by these movable walls exemplifies PodLab Studios’ commitment to accommodating a wide range of recording scenarios, from solo narrations to panel discussions.

Technological Integration for a Modern Edge

A highlight of the studio’s modern side is the incorporation of a 43″ LED 4K TV, strategically placed to facilitate virtual interactions via Zoom/FaceTime, making remote guests feel as though they’re physically present in the studio. Additionally, a 55″ TV is centered within this space, serving multiple functions—from displaying videos that complement the podcast’s content to showcasing a client’s logo, providing a customizable backdrop that aligns with the podcast’s branding.

Enhancing Studio Flexibility with Mobile Dividers

Further enhancing the studio’s versatility are mobile room dividers, featuring 7-foot-tall black curtains. These dividers are not just functional, aiding in acoustic separation between the studio’s modern and organic sections; they also offer the creative flexibility to open up the space. This design choice allows for a seamless visual contrast within a single video frame, showcasing the dynamic interplay between the studio’s black, technology-rich area and the clean, simplistic white side.

Preserving an Organic Feel on the White Side

The studio’s white side, adorned with 3D wall panels, is intentionally kept clean and simple. This design decision underscores a commitment to maintaining an organic feel, providing a stark contrast to the black, modern area. This contrast is not merely aesthetic but also functional, offering podcasters a choice of backdrop that can shift the tone and feel of their content.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Design and Functionality

PodLab Studios’ design is a testament to the power of thoughtful studio layout and aesthetic choices in enhancing podcast production. The harmonious blend of acoustic foam, StickGoo tiles, 3D wall panels, and mobile room dividers creates a space that is both acoustically sound and visually appealing. The innovative use of technology, from the integration of large LED TVs for virtual guest appearances to the flexibility offered by hinged extension walls, sets PodLab Studios apart. This environment not only meets the technical demands of podcast production but also inspires creativity and engagement, making it a premier destination for podcasters looking to elevate their content. Through this careful integration of design and technology, PodLab Studios has crafted a recording space that truly reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of modern podcasting.

Conclusion: My final thoughts:

In the grand tapestry of content creation, the meticulous selection and integration of design elements, lighting and sliding gear, cameras, and audio equipment at PodLab Studios stand as a testament to the philosophy that while content is king, the environment in which it is created can significantly amplify its impact. Being in south east Michigan, our studio embodies a commitment to providing creators with a space that not only meets the highest standards of production quality but also inspires creativity and innovation.

A Harmonious Blend of Technology and Aesthetics

The decision to incorporate acoustic foam, StickGoo tiles, 3D wall panels, and mobile room dividers was driven by a desire to create an acoustically pristine and visually stimulating environment. This duality ensures that podcasts produced at PodLab Studios are not only audibly superior but are also complemented by an aesthetic backdrop that enhances the viewer’s experience. The juxtaposition of the modern, technology-rich side with the clean, organic white side of the studio allows for a dynamic visual contrast, catering to diverse creative visions.

Dynamic Visual Storytelling Through Lighting and Movement

The inclusion of Neewer lighting solutions and motorized camera sliders was a strategic choice aimed at elevating the visual storytelling aspect of podcasting. By integrating these elements, we’ve enabled a cinematic feel in our productions, where light not only illuminates but also sets the tone, and camera movement adds a layer of professionalism and dynamism to the content. This approach underscores our belief in the power of visual elements to complement and enhance the auditory experience of podcasts.

The Foundation of Quality Content: Superior Audio and Video Gear

At the heart of PodLab Studios’ operational ethos is the understanding that the quality of audio and video equipment, such as the Rodecaster Pro II, Rode PodMics, Rode PSA1+ Boom Arms, and Canon R5 and R6 cameras, fundamentally shapes the content’s reception. These choices reflect a commitment to capturing every nuance of sound and visual detail, ensuring that the content not only reaches but resonates with the audience.

The Philosophy Behind the Choices

While the amalgamation of high-quality equipment and thoughtful design significantly enhances the production value, it’s essential to remember that great content can originate anywhere. The magic lies in the story being told and the passion behind it. PodLab Studios was conceived as a sanctuary for creators seeking to push the boundaries of traditional podcasting, offering a “done for you” system where the technical aspects of content creation are handled by experts, allowing creators to focus on what they do best: storytelling.

Invitation to Creators

For those looking to elevate their content within a space that embodies the pinnacle of podcast production excellence, PodLab Studios extends a warm invitation. Whether you’re an established podcaster or just embarking on your content creation journey, our doors are open. We offer not just a studio but a partnership in bringing your vision to life, providing a seamless blend of technology and creativity. At the end of the day, it’s about the content you create and the stories you tell. If you’re ever in need of a space where all elements converge to support your creative endeavor, PodLab Studios is here to make that happen.

By Ace Assi – Owner/Engineer at PodLab Studios

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#audio podcast #video content #podcast #video production #youtube #Podcast studio rental #studio rental #Studio space rental #Production studio rental #Youtube

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tori102098 · 10 months ago

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The Duty of Attorneys in Modern Culture: Supporters for Justice and Legal Professionals

Intro to the Relevance of Legal Representatives in Society

Lawyers play a vital function in modern-day society, working as advocates for justice and lawful professionals. From protecting clients in courtrooms to giving legal recommendations and assistance, legal representatives are important in supporting the regulation of law and ensuring reasonable treatment for all individuals. With their thorough expertise of the legal system and competence in different areas of regulation, lawyers navigate the intricacies of the lawful landscape, safeguarding the civil liberties and passions of their customers. Whether it is a criminal situation, a civil disagreement, or an organization transaction, legal representatives bring their abilities, experience, and devotion to look for justice and deal with conflicts.The Diverse Responsibilities and Responsibilities of Lawyers Attorneys think several duties

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and responsibilities, depending upon their specialization and the demands of their customers. Criminal defense lawyer, for instance, are the protectors of those charged of dedicating crimes, making certain that their clients obtain a fair test and shielding their rights throughout the lawful process. On the other hand, civil litigators represent individuals and companies in non-criminal lawful disagreements, such as personal injury insurance claims, contract disputes, or household legislation issues. They provide lawful suggestions, negotiate settlements, and, if essential, take instances to court to combat for their customers' rights.Moreover, lawyers are typically entailed in transactional issues, such as preparing contracts, discussing transaction, and offering legal support in estate planning. They assist people and organizations browse intricate legal documents and ensure compliance with the regulation. Additionally, attorneys likewise contribute to the growth and improvement of the legal system by taking part in legal procedures, forming lawful policies, and advocating for adjustments that profit culture as a whole.In verdict, lawyers are essential in our society, offering as advocates for justice and lawful specialists. They safeguard the rights and passions of their customers, navigate intricate lawful matters, and add to the advancement of a reasonable and simply legal system. Whether it remains in a court room, an arrangement table, or a legal conference, legal representatives play a crucial role in promoting the policy of law and making certain equal therapy and accessibility to justice for all.

Read more here Estate Planning for Business Asset Protection

#last will

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justwriteryan · 1 year ago

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CHAPTER TWO

A New York highway. An army blockade is preventing traffic from entering the city. There’s an abundance of armed military units and barbed wire, but not everybody is getting the message. A disgruntled truck driver steps out of his vehicle and marches right up to the blockade, where a crowd of scared and confused people have already gathered.

DRIVER: Hey, Rambo! What’s the big idea?

SOLDIER: Sir, you need to return to your vehicle and go back the way you came. The city is off-limits.

DRIVER: What’s the big emergency?

SOLDIER: Some sort of invasion. The whole city’s under attack, and New York may not be the only target.

DRIVER: So then, what are you goons doin’ out here, disruptin’ my deliveries, when there’s a freakin’ war being fought on Main Street?

SOLDIER: Orders from Commander Rogers himself: nobody gets in, and everybody gets out. Now, you…and all you folks here…need to turn around and go home! This is a military operation, and its not safe for you people to-

BOOM! Something explodes a few miles behind the blockade. No sooner does panic set in than three flying tentacled beasts come screeching across the skies. Riding on their backs are the grey-skinned creatures glimpsed in the city. They wheel overhead and open fire on all below, civilian and soldier alike. An army sergeant barks his orders.

SERGEANT: Hostiles in the sky! Weapons free! Light ‘em up!

The soldiers return fire as the civilians run for cover. Its chaos. Suddenly, a yellow laser beam pops the head off one of the riders. Another shoots one of the beasts in the eye, sending it crashing onto the freeway. As the surviving assailant swings his mount to hunt this new foe, a red and yellow blur bursts through the skull of the beast he’s riding, and a red gauntlet smashes into his face. As the last of the aliens go down, all eyes turn to the sky once again. There, gleaming in a floating suit of red and gold armour is Tony Stark, the invincible Iron Man.

STARK: Do what the man says folks. Go home and stay there. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a really important call to get to,

And with a whoosh, he’s gone, flying like a fighter jet off into the city.

A tracking shot of Iron Man as he swoops around skyscrapers and fires repulsor beams at the aliens. Eventually, he lands in the conference room of Avengers Tower, coming through a window that was smashed in the fighting.

STARK: Morning, Avengers.

ROGERS: Tony, good, we’re ready to begin.

The large table where the Avengers usually meet has been upturned to face the shattered windows to act as a makeshift barrier. At the back of the room is another huge TV screen, displaying multiple satellite views, infra-red shots and news reports. Around the room are the few Avengers that were present in the tower at the time of attack; the current Captain America, Bucky Barnes…the Protector, the alien warrior Noh-Varr…Spider-man and Spider-woman, Jessica Drew…winged hero the Falcon, and Maria Hill.

STARK; Uh, where’s Thor?

MARIA: He lives in Asgard, and they don’t have phones there.

ROGERS: He’s en route. I made the call.

MARIA: What? Just like that?

ROGERS: I said the words, he’ll be here. Now, down to business. At approximately 0600 hours, New York and perhaps the world was invaded by an army of previously unknown alien life-forms…

SPIDER-MAN: “previously unknown”?

ROGERS: Yes. Using intel collected from the databanks of Reed Richards, S.H.I.E.L.D, S.W.O.R.D., and Noh-Varr here, we’ve deduced that this species isn’t Kree, Skrull, Shi-‘ar, Titan, Martian, Sakarrian, Brood or any other we’ve got catalogues on.

STARK: Could it be something…supernatural, instead?

ROGERS: We had our mystics check into that as well. I didn’t like that they were able to gain entry into our atmosphere without any real spacecraft, so I got everybody I could think of investigating teleportation spells large enough to transport armies. Unfortunately, there were no “mystical disturbances” in this dimension. At this early stage, we have to conclude that this is an invasion from another universe.

BUCKY: My God…

ROGERS: All attempts to contact them have failed. They aren’t interested in talking. Whether they’re doing this for resources, or territory, or some warped religious dogma, we can’t tell. Nor can we tell how they got here, how many of them there are, or…

He breaks off for a minute. The group watches him patiently as he composes himself.

ROGERS: the good news is, they’ve pushed us to the point where we can make it real simple for them. The U.N.’s stance on unwarranted extra-terrestrial attacks is surprisingly straightforward. Give them no quarter. Those bastards have come here to kill and destroy. Your job is to stop that from happening. Help any civilians you find that are hurt or in trouble, but right now holding back the attack is the priority. You’re the front line, Avengers. Move out.

The Avengers begin to file out the window. Falcon and Protector fly out first. Spider-man pauses for a second.

SPIDER-MAN: Another day, another alien invasion.

He leaps out the window. Tony turns to Steve.

STARK: Where are the Fantastic Four?

ROGERS: Reed, Sue, Johnny and the kids are on vacation in the 1600s, but Ben Grimms staying with Cage’s team at the Mansion, who are already in the field.

STARK: Damn it. The world’s leading expert on multi-dimensional travel is in another time the day we got attacked by…what are we calling them, anyway?

ROGERS: Due to their frenzied attacking style and possible hive mind mentality, we’ve coined the name “Locust”

BUCKY: A swarm of Locusts. Great.

ROGERS: Bucky, wait. I’m keeping you in reserve for the time being.

BUCKY: You’re what?

ROGERS: This room is our nerve centre. I need you on site to defend it while I co-ordinate the fight.

BUCKY: Fine. But I’m gonna need more than your old shield and my M-9.

Steve walks over to a space in the wall. He holds his palm against it. A whirring sound comes from behind it and a portion of the wall slides away to reveal a fully-stocked gun cabinet with fire-arms of various makes and sizes.

ROGERS: This should help.

KRA-BOOM.. thunder rolls and bangs across the sky. For a moment, all noise outside the tower stops. Then, hurtling out of the dark, stormy sky like a falling star comes Thor, God of Thunder. With a force that shakes Avengers Tower right to the roof, he strikes his hammer to the earth and sends lightning shooting out to scorch all Locust within fifty feet.

ROGERS: See? Told you he’d be here.

END.

#fanfic #fanfiction #creative writing #marvel #creative #the avengers #fanfic friday #crossover #gears of war #thor #steve rogers #captain america #bucky barnes #iron man #spiderman #spider woman #maria hill

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bet-on-me-13 · 1 year ago

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I wanted to write about that meeting

...

Diana was not sure what to feel as she walked into the Conference Room for the Emergency Meeting with the Extra-Dimensional Princess.

They had been contacted by Justice League Dark about two hours ago. Apparently they had been approached by the Princess of the Realms, asking to be granted an audience with the Justice League. She had warned that the topic of discussion was urgent, and that it could mean a War if not properly handled.

Beforehand, those not familiar with the subject had been given a crash course on The Infinite Realms and its Denizens.

Flash had been skeptical about the idea of Ghosts (ignoring the fact that he had literally met Boston already), until Zatanna caved and just gave him a few research papers on the species. (Apparently they were written by a pair of Technomancers who wanted to rationalize magic)

(She had thankfully been exempt from the Class as she was familiar with the Realms through her Aunt Pandora.)

She walked to her spot in the meeting room, and took her seat. To her right sat Kal-El, with an empty seat in between the two of them. That seat belonged to their missing Team Member, and arguably their leader, Batman. He was currently on mandatory Time-Off while he dealt with the tragic loss of his youngest son.

The Void in the seat next to her fell to the back of her mind as the one who called for the Meeting walked into the Room.

A pair of beings walked into the Room. The one that drew the most attention was the larger one, a 7 ft tall man in a set of intimidating Purple Armor, with a glowing green sword at his side.

The second one was shorter, much shorter. She was obviously young, maybe 12 years of age, with flowing snow white hair and glowing green eyes. It seemed obvious she was the Princess by the Circlet of Ice that sat on her Head. The other one must have been her Bodyguard.

She walked to the center of the Room, in the middle of the large U-shaped Table often used for Conference Meetings. She looked up, an expression of determination on her face.

"Greetings, my name is Danielle Phantom, and I am the Princess of the Ghost Zone. This-" She gestured to the Knight at her side, "-is my Guard, Fright Knight. I am here to discuss a matter of great importance.

She sounded awkward talking like this, as if she was not used to speaking formally. It was probably her first time addressing a crowd as the princess.

"We welcome you, Princess Danielle. We are the Justice League, the Protectors of the Human Realms," Diana introduced them, "What have you come to ask of us, your Majesty?"

"I come here to ask your help in avoiding a War with my kingdom." She said in a grave voice, "Recently, a member of the Human Realm nearly succeeded in Ending our King, Phantom."

"What?" Asked Zatanna, shock clear on her face. "Who could do such a thing?"

It was a good question. Diana was more than familiar with King Phantom's actions through her aunt Pandora's stories. She constantly gushed about how well he was doing for himself, and how proud she was that the Warrior she had trained had risen to be the King of the Realms at such a young age. He was too powerful to be beaten by a Human, how did this happen?

She voiced the question.

"It was his Human Father." Princess Danielle said bitterly, "Phantom was staying in the Human Realm with another of our kind as he grieved the recent loss of his adoptive family. Unfortunately, while he was there, he was discovered by his Birth Family and taken from Plasmius' care."

It was lucky they had covered just how young Phantom was in the Crash Course, or there may have been a few questions raised here.

"He resisted their attempts to replace his lost family, and his Father took offense to that." She said angrily. "He knocked Phantom out while he was in his Human Form and decided that his Ghostly Side was the problem, that it was what was making him too, 'emotional' and 'unstable'".

Diana felt as if she could see where this was going. And she did not like it.

"He resolved to remove the problem at the source by ripping out his Core."

The others, who just understood the basics of what a Ghost was and what their Core was, got angry on his behalf, not fully grapsing the situation. Those who fully understood what that meant froze in Horror.

The Core of a Ghost is the most important part of their being. It is their Soul, their Being, the 'Core' of their very existence. To even touch another Ghosts Core was a crime, but to rip out the Core of not just Royalty, but a Baby by Ghost standards? It was the most unforgivable atrocity one could commit. It would End most Ghosts in an instant.

"Due to his nature as a Halfa, my brother managed to just avoid Ending. But his Human Half began to deteriorate, and he lost all emotional connections." She explained, "When it Eventually gave out, we managed to capture his Human Half's Essence. But we still need his Ghostly Half, his Core, to save him. Neither aide can survive without the other for long."

Kal-El quickly asked, "Do you know what happened to it?"

"No. We know that it was sealed away in some sort of container so he couldn't retrieve it, but not where it ended up." She answered. "What I am asking of you is help in finding my brothers Core before half of his being is fully destroyed, and he ends forever."

"We'll start searching immediately." Answered Flash, "But what about the Human who did this?"

She looked at the entire room. "Do you promise to hand him over so we may punish him to the full extent of our Laws?"

Kal-El spoke up, and in a confident voice he stated, "Yes, we promise. What was his name?"

She stayed silent for a moment, but before she could answer, her Knight spoke up for the first time since he walked in.

In a deep and hollow voice, he merely stated, "Bruce Wayne."

Gimmie a Danny and Damian twins au, but not one where they're all gushy gushy and huggy huggy about the fact that they're reunited.

I want one, where they HATE and try to KILL EACH OTHER. Where they're extremely fucked up in their relationship with one another, but can't kill the other because Taila hoped that they could get along.

They spew poison at each other, inflict pain on each other as easy as BREATHING and would leave the other while heavily injured while saying that they could take care of themselves.

I want them to be near mortal-enemies wrapped up in the bodies of two highly-competent and powerful 14 year olds who cannot give a fuck about each other, has a fleeting thought of killing the other on the best of days but doesn't because of their dear mommy Taila.

Then force them to interact with each other after a long period of separation. I don't give a flying FUCK how you manage to do it, perhaps Danny has to run because his parents vivisected him, perhaps the Nasty Burger explosion couldn't be reversed because Clockwork said no and Danny is torn or perhaps Vlad brings him to Gotham for a gala (either redeemed or not redeemed Vlad), etc, etc.

Force these two children who fucking HATE each other under the same roof, make them interact, make them watch each other interact and make comments about it. Maybe even make an unstable Danny try and KILL Damian, but is stopped by the batfam, or maybe make it that Danny can't even bring himself to kill Damian because he's (discounting Talia) the only family he has left.

Maybe even (if you go the Nasty Burger/Dead Fenton fam au) make Danny hate Bruce Wayne's fucking GUTS because this man is trying to replace his dead father (even though Bruce IS his biological father) and hates him even MORE because he looks so similar to Jack's face that he's literally torn whenever he sees him. Make it that he never stays in the same room as Bruce whenever he's not in mask, make it that he tells Bruce TO HIS FACE that he hates the man for trying to replace his dead FUCKING dad and that he will NEVER accept him as one, biologically related or not.

Maybe even make him not like the batfam either just for the fact that they associate with both Bruce and Damian.

(I just remembered about that one post I saw, but BOY is this ramble gonna get even WORSE for dear old Danny. Though this part isn't really necessary could just read the on top bit lol)

Maybe they even find a way to take away his ghost side, and Bruce (With or without Talia) say that it's for the best for him, and Danny? Danny just fucking BREAKS. DOWN. He's full-on crying and screaming at Bruce and maybe has to be held back by the other batkids or not, or maybe he's just fulling on trying to hit Bruce and Bruce either dodges or just takes it.

Saying how fucking DARE he take away his ghost side, that was apart of him and he had NO FUCKING RIGHT to take away something so precious from him. Then Bruce could say that he doesn't need powers, he could be fully if not even more capable as a human.

And Danny just goes "You don't even get it, do you?" And Danny just cries harder because technically that was one the LAST things linking him to his parents. His DEAD parents. Sure, the accident was his fault, but phantom was created because of their portal, in their lab, in their basement.

Even worse if the reveal went RIGHT and they starting accepting how he was half ghost and trying to change their views on ghosts as a whole, only to die. Then, for some guy to just, take away something like that from him?

Maybe Danny would even say that, rip into him about how that was one of the only things linking him to his parents and even if it wasn't he didn't have the fucking right to decide what to do with HIS body.

"You never had to fucking worry about your parents not accepting you, I did. They still loved me regardless, they tried to change for me. But you wouldn't even know what that feels like, would you, you stupid fucking rich boy."

[idk why I typed that part out but just role with it.]

Maybe Bruce tries to sympathize with Danny about his parents, but Danny just doesn't have any fucks left to give about Bruce's life, or anyone else life in Bruce's life at all and just shuts it down or steamrolls over it. At the end of it all Danny is just a crying, shivering wreck and stares down Bruce with eyes full of HATE that tells Bruce one step closer, and he would KILL him.

Maybe then Damian (Either walks in or was there the entire time.) insults Danny over his weakness and depending on his ghost form or something, and Danny just sees fucking RED and jumps on him. No care that he's no longer half ghost, so that he means he could die more easily, no care to anyone else in that room, no care that Talia wanted both of them to get along and not kill each other.

He tries to kill Damian.

He fails miserably, of course, but he still tries. Then tries again and a fucking gain.

Then after all that he just, doesn't come out of his room, or tries to escape and leave Gotham every chance he gets. He never gets far, but he keeps trying, and he never opens up to anyone in the batfam, not even Alfred.

He's just a kid who lost everything he worked so hard for, everything he tried to hide from his biological mother and her assassin league who tried to keep whatever he had left. Now that kid is fueled by nothing but pure, revolting hatred for the people who took even that from him.

Basically like Dark Danny, but way more powerless and fully human.

[Okay that's enough of me rambling.]

#Dp x dc #Dpxdc #Dc x dp #Dcxdp #Danny Phantom #Dc #Dcu

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