#FGO fanfic

[otaku-tactician]

and here's chapter two of my Nagaizo smut fic! (18+). It's finally completed.

Main Plot: Serving as a sequel to the fanfiction Blossoms Upon the Battlefield, Izou wrangles with his developing feelings for a certain ultraviolent Oni Musashi. However, as they say- 'whatever one resists persists' - to the extent of his feelings for Mori becoming utterly unavoidable. Amidst an exhilarating spar, and the warm light of the moonlight, repressed feelings finally spill over.

Chapter Summary: Now that both of their feelings have finally been unleashed; blossoms bursting forth- the two warriors indulge in passions of the flesh, spending a wanton night under the warm night skies. Yet, even such a horny interlude is laden with precious, tender moments; vulnerability knocking Izou's sake cup over entirely.

Trigger Warnings: 18+ smut, swearing, mentions of death, blood and gore. Sexual content including frottage, nipple play, anal sex, fingering and mutual masturbation.

[borntobelime]

“”. A woman stepped out of the drift, tall and handsome, with dark eyes and darker hair. Her clothes were brightly dyed, cloaked in the myriad of autumn, a sharp contrast to the demure blues and grays of Artoria’s own wardrobe. Glass beads adorned both her neck and her wrists, trapped the outside sunlight and carried its reflection inside with her.

Once recovered from her surprise, Artoria spoke: “Greetings, Vivian. I appreciate your haste.” “”

Vivian from the fanfic We Three Kings

Written by nothing_is_beautiful_and_true

Plot : While her knights are out questing for the Holy Grail, Artoria stumbles across two gifts left behind by Merlin. If only she could figure out how to return them.

(Special thanks to @fate-inspiration for helping me a bit on the anatomy )

Here is also the lineart

[orchestrated-haunting]

Some College AU Headcannons

Diarmuid Ua Duibhne

A cultural anthropology major with a focus on what the knight archetype implies, and how its changes depending on the cultural implications.

Wore a face mask pre COVID-19 to cover his mole, and thanks to the pandemic it became more normalized for him to so.

He goes to parties if he knows one of his friends will be present, often playing drinking games with Fionn and Cu.

Flirts with his friends quite to the point outside observers can’t tell if it was platonic or romantic.

Cu Chuclainn

As irritating as it can be at times he enjoys being in veterinary school.

He fosters dogs and has had several foster fails. One of them being a small white fluffy dog that is a little bit crusty, (causing his friends to make jokes of him being a rich white mom who owns a yacht).

Tried taking his pals on fishing trips but the only one who would come after a few trips is Fionn.

Iskander

The big man enjoys his maps, so naturally he became a geography major who minored in classics.

He’s a part of the wresting team and his friends joke about burying their faces into his tiddies saying things such as “normalize friend group homoerotism”.

Iskander got very into strategy games, and his not so guilty pleasure game is the Fire Emblem series.

Waver

A freshmen history major who is very out of his element.

Ended up getting adopted by Iskander because he ended up accidently bumping into him checking his phone.

He’s honestly terrified of Iskander’s friends but he keeps getting dragged into their hangouts. He eventually develops a soft spot for all of them, and cried when some of them graduated.

Identifies as a part of the LGBTQ+ community but isn’t sure how to label it, whether in regards to gender or sexuality.

[typingdyslexiaisathing]

A Dazed Moment (Fate Grand Order) fic

content: The Servants are gathered at camp to make a hot pot for their two Masters and Mash to enjoy. But one particular Master is too zoned out to notice much. That is until a particular Servant gets their attention. Established relationships, casual talk, camping out, romance and fluff. Mature subjects of intimacy and making love.

Another random event Singularity. Another long Rayshift to another dense forest. Another day of fighting and collecting materials. Ritsuka Fujimaru and Mash seemed all too used to doing this kind of thing. But I doubted I ever would.

The base camp was little more than four tents and one thrown together wooden cottage in the middle of robust trees and a rushing river. The bug repellant super charged with magecraft to ensure none of them came anywhere near our base. Ritsuka and Mash were in the middle of a conference call with Chaldea HQ. While I sat by the fire to let Scathach bandage my left arm for me. Since I was too out of it to really complain to anyone. Archer was prepping a huge bowl of what I might guess to be hot pot for us. While both Lancer Cu and Caster Cu were currently absent. Probably to take Nursery Rhyme, Jack the Ripper, Fran, and Sieg to go try their hands at fishing again.

Scathach applied the healing salve to the deep rends in my arm to make sure I kept my fingers loose. Since I'd fallen down a steep incline and right into a bunch of broken up bits of a leftover tree stump. Granted, I had been busy using my own limited magecraft to shoot down several Marionettes that were quite adamant at decapitating me. The others also fighting for our lives just as vehemently as I was. Yet that didn't really do much for my already tattered self confidence and I was quite settled into my sullen daze.

Archer paused in his cooking to gaze at me as I stared into the fire. A frown soon crossing his lips as Scathach finished wrapping my arm for me. Her own stoic expression barely hinting at her concern as Archer spoke up. "Retha. You are the one that tends to point out there is victory to celebrate in just making it out of a fight still breathing. So there is little reason for you to look so defeated." I didn't answer as my gaze stayed to the flames that crackled and popped. Which was a telling thing as Scathach sighed with a patient warmth most wouldn't notice. But I did catch on to finally react and just carefully flex my fingers on both hands. A grunt of pain escaping before I spoke up. "You can do everything perfectly and still lose it all. That's life. But it still suckles at a rotted teat."

Archer dropped his knife he was using to peel vegetables with as Scatchach gave a tisk of scolding at me for my choice of words. Only for the sound of someone barking out into a laughing fit behind to signal that Lancer Cu was walking up to us. A deep part of me regaining my spark of color and warmth at the sound of his amusement. Actually seeing him though brought sunshine back into my vision for me to get my smile back. All while Lancer kept laughing to have that gorgeous smirk on his face. His eyes a roaring inferno of scarlet mirth and passion as he looked into my own eyes. Which had my insides melt as I felt the blush dust over my cheeks and nose. But I just reached up to wiggle my fingers at him as Scathach watched us with that wise and calculating gaze.

Lancer was more than happy to just saunter over and kneel down so he could scoop me up and into his frame in a spine crunching bear hug. Meaning I got squished into his almost naked frame to savor every sculpted muscle and toned parts of him. Which I was all too happy to do as he placed a playful bite to my nose in greeting. While Archer went back to his cooking as Lancer growled at me in warm delight. "The nippets send their best and will want to show off all the pretty shiny stones they found. So do look forward to that. We also have several rabbits and even a few wild turkeys to feast on." Archer muttered to note for our hearing with hinted at feigned annoyance, "You were supposed to bring back fish for me to use in the hot pot. Are you telling me none of you caught any fish?"

My smile doesn't waver as Scathach makes the point for me. "Caster is showing Mash and Ritsuka how to clean the fish. While the nippets are probably watching, braiding his ponytail again, or both." Lancer smirks at this for me to chuckle at the mental image of Caster getting used as a beauty model for the girls in the group to style his hair. Since his ponytail was only growing longer due to him overhearing how much I loved seeing him with long hair. So Archer rolled his eyes to go back to his cooking. While Lancer spun us around slowly to nuzzle his nose to my face a enjoy how close we were. "Besides. Someone prefers to have turkey over fish. Due to the fact they never had to eat fish of any kind while growing up and never found a fish they liked yet." I frowned as Archer raised an eyebrow at that news for me to grumble a bit. "Smooth move, dorko. I am more than okay with trying and or eating whatever Archer makes for us to eat and or snack on. Are you implying that our resident chef of legends isn't good at making something? I will gladly let Scathach sashimi you if that was what you were even so much as hinting at."

Lancer does get nervous enough to turn so his teacher is in sight so he can make an attempt at defending himself. But Scathach seems more interested in packing up the medical supplies she just used than following through on the implied threat I just made. Her beautiful stoic features a perfect sight to behold despite what little emotion in her eyes and other silent queues I was able to pick up on now. She was amused enough to let the threat linger as a possibility. If only to make Lancer uneasy as he held me a bit tighter. Which had me hum a few happy notations to then sneak a kiss to his cheek. The dead giveaway at the bluff for Lancer to chuff and growl in mock annoyance. "Methinks I should be highly annoyed with you, Retha. So much so that I should toss you into the river. Yet I think I will forgive you on one condition." I felt the desire burn over my sense when Lancer started nipping at my neck with gentle bites to my pulse and play growling at me through his teeth. My shudder sparking over every nerve as Scathach shook her head to then turn and head for the main camping tent. While Archer got a slight smile to pointedly avoid watching as Lancer lifted me off my feet and headed for the cottage. Since it was the designated sleeping slash mana exchange section of the camp. So I knew I wasn't going to be doing much walking after this. But I wasn't going to complain as I gave Lancer a very rich whisper against his ear. "Setanta. Leave me dazed for other reasons."

Lancer was more than happy to whisk us with all due speed right into the cottage to nudge the door closed with a foot. The magic lock snapping into place soon after for Lancer to just toss me into the air. His leotard gone in a blink for him to catch me and start his eager ministrations to getting me all riled up right along with him. The only attire still upon his frame being those earrings and the bond ring I had given him. Lancer used his clever hands to just slide my boots and socks off my feet before my hiking pants came off. His lips soon kissing at the tears in the corner of my eyes as he smirked at me. "Still a nervous and chaste lady I see. So sweet to hold to me and know in this you allow me to worship you proper. Such a good woman you are, Retha. My Master. A sarcastic and direct soul with sweet kindness and red plum tartness I adore."

My hiking coat and undershirt with the built in bra was soon on the floor for the cool air to prickle over my skin. Only for such to be banished as Lancer wrapped us both in a very thick fur blanket. Said fur blanket made from a Primal Lynx the size of a Chimera. Then we were on the cushioned mattress for Lancer to lay beneath me and just snuggle with me for a while. Soft traces of his hands and gentle touches of his lips to my skin to leave me shivering for completely different reasons. While my own hands stayed on his shoulders for me to be lost in the pure sensations of his foreplay. Heated breaths washing over skin as blood burned through veins. Until I was able to feel how our hearts were thundering against our sternums and ribcages for me to lose my restraint.

I wanted him. All of him. All for me. To know and feel nothing else but the now of being with him and making us a tangled melted union. He was so gorgeous and perfectly crafted in appearance and personality. I'd felt that searing attraction engulf me like I'd fallen up into the sun the second our eyes had met. Yet I had convinced myself in the next second he would not view me in the same way. I was slightly overweight and had a rather large port wine stain birthmark that covered my right shoulder and some of my neck. My hair was a dull hickory shade of brown with several streaks of white. Despite being only thirty-one years of age, I had issues with arthritis in my joints. Yet Lancer had instantly cornered me to swear his oaths of commitment to me. As my Servant and the chance of being my lover in turn. I had been so shocked at his boldness. Yet I found out why with time and many moments of loving care and joyful adoration. Lancer loved my every quirk and defining character trait. He savored how I cussed up a storm when I was still half asleep every morning. He delighted in how I openly cuddled with Fou any chance I got. His heart melted whenever I saw him and instantly got my smile back. He told me my eyes were the most perfect and glorious color of Nordic blue possible. He said how he had to lecture himself internally to not automatically grab me and rest his hands certain places.

We had fallen in love and just kept falling further into love. Which was the one thing that always knocked the air from my lungs. Such left me spinning without being able to float back up. Which happened again for Lancer to be hugging me tight as he rumbled in his ancient tongue against my face. My tears hot and making my eyes burn as I came back to the moment. My words hoarse and quaking with so much emotion. "Sorry... It just... How did I ever get to be yours? By what blessing did you find me to then choose me as yours? It feels like I stole priceless artwork and my hands are molded from mud." Lancer gave a bark of a laugh to then sigh into my skin. "Hah. You are so humble and meek sometimes. Here's the lass who openly berates Gilgamesh as an entitled brat and has zero hesitation to flip the enemy off with both hands. Yet here you are. So awed and terrified with misgivings. It's so... Beautiful."

Lancer rubbed his nose to mine before he hummed in pure love. "Retha. We have each other and I want to revel in such. Join me and let's let thinking go." So it was that my beloved warrior and bold heart began to trace pure bliss over my senses with his masterful talents. All else washing away as I gave in. To him. To us and what we are together. My mewls and squeaks sounding out along with his huff and growls of enjoyment. Heated sweat and hungry kisses having us taste the joys of the now. The oldest dance of divine joining to make love and be vulnerable in the give and take of pleasure and passion. A sacred act that was only for us in this moment of existence to hold as precious. My perfect blessing being the hero named Cu Chulainn. His wish upon the Grail fulfilled in me.

[has-gilgamesh-doneanythingwrong]

I saw requests are open was wondering if you wouldn't mind doing some NSFW head canon's for a soft dom Solomon x female master with dirty talk and foreplay. Also sorry if this is too many things but can you do NO penetrative sex please?

Hello anon, thanks for the request, that is perfectly okay! Sure, that's okay with me. So that's Solomon foreplay including dirty talk concept. I can do that. I hope you enjoy, and thanks for waiting for so long!! As for the Soft Dom part, that will focus on him giving a lot of praise and care to the master. I should warn you though, this may become full of angst, as well.

Warnings: 18+ NSFW Fanfic tagged as 'lemon fanfic'. Includes a lot of fluff and ANGST, soft dom(?) Solomon, FGO SPOILERS, dirty talk, fem! master character, outercourse and foreplay (no sex).

Solomon x Fem! Master NSFW (Foreplay, Soft Dom, Dirty Talk, A LOT OF ANGST!)

✰ Facing him at the apex of your journey; standing as two juxtaposing forces at the very precipice of the end, your meeting with Solomon is fraught with anticipation. With such a precious wreath of memories of his time fighting on behalf of the Chaldeas as Romani, to the lacerating pain that engulfed you with his final self-sacrifice.... to see him standing before you, right in the flesh- was like a dream.

✰ "I-is that really you...? Roma- Solomon?!" Rushing haphazardly through a mass of broken fragments floating lifelessly upon a realm that was unknown to either the world of man or gods- it stood an atelier that only you and he alone could access, cut off from the rest of the universe. Whether it was a dream, or possibly even a new reality was anybody's guess.

✰ As you gradually make your way towards him, crystallized tears frozen within the air; the solemn figure standing before you smiles wistfully as he turns to face you- his golden eyes burdened with a sense of suffering so deep and profound; carrying the truths of the world within their glistening depths.

✰ "...You've come a long way, to find me here; meeting me at the end of all realms of existence. If Romani was here, I'm sure he'd be glad." Within an instant, he materializes before you, his sun-kissed bronze hands lightly tracing themselves across your face, his expression taking on an unreadable hue. "Even if it was only for a short period of time, I was able to live as a human by your side. Thank you, Master of Chaldea."

✰ Bursting into tears at his words, you wrap your arms around him as your faces draw but a hair's breadth away from one another, breath misting upon another's faces as he gently wipes away your tears, kneeling down to support your fallen form. Though he reassures you that there's no need to cry, you can't help but wail, inconsolable gasps rippling through your body, as you press your forehead to his, desperate to rekindle any form of connection, to feel any sign of warmth.

✰ Romani, Solomon. You him, Mash and Da Vinci. The benevolent Doctor of Chaldea who had been a loveable goof, a massive Magi Mari simp and an invaluable ally to all... no, he was even more than just that to you. He was the one you held dear to your heart, committing every memory, every moment of his existence to mind. But now for you both to meet like this...it was certain that this was likely to be the last time you'd be able to hold onto him for a while.

✰ It seems as if Solomon is acutely aware of this as well. Despite seeming distant- as if the version of him you grew to love and adore in Chaldea is no more- his grip has yet to be loosened from your figure, his flowing locks of flaxen hair tickling your face. As his fingers absentmindedly rub circles into your cheeks, almost on instinct; his body recalling the movements of a part of him that may now possibly cease to exist.

✰ Taken aback by his familiar touch, and the nostalgia of having your chests pressed against one another; hearts beating in unison, you open your mouth to speak, to beg for him to return in some way, only for him to sadly shake his head.

✰ "My return isn't currently prophecies within the stars as of yet. However," He pauses, as his gleaming, ring-laden hands softly trace themselves over your lips, a tender hue entering his eyes, "If you are to oblige, then let me touch you. Let me feel you one last time, and embrace you like I did as when I was a human. Roman- no, I... I wish to commit how it felt to be with you to my mind, for one last final time." Although his words are resolute, his fingers tremble slightly, as his nonchalant mask finally begins to crumble.

✰ Lips locking in what feels like forever, the kiss is tender yet also bittersweet; the two of you savoring every moment, hungrily gasping for more as your form blossoms beneath him, kisses trailing down your neck, your eyes misting with a sense of longing. Oh how long it had been since the last time you had kissed! How deeply you craved for more!

✰ "You're beautiful. Sprawled before me with such need in your eyes... he surely must've felt blessed to have been by your side." Despite the indomitable nature of his words, his touch becomes even gentler; sinking down to fully embrace you as his robes flutter against the ground, spread out like a canopy of ancient paintings.

✰ Holding onto your waist for dear life, the two of you become entangled within a passionate cuddle; your limbs entwined between one another's as he begins to grind against you. As you whimper with bliss at how delectable it feels- and at how unfair it was to be delighting in a warmth that would soon be ripped from you, eventually to become naught but a fleeting memory; tears prickle at your eyes as you pull him back in to a passionate smooch, breaths quickening from the action.

✰ Mewling his name repeatedly- like a solemn prayer to the heavens- your body completely yields to his addictive touch, that tickles and rubs against your most vulnerable zones. You cared for him, yearned for him- so, so much. Desperately avoiding even spending a fraction of a second apart, your entire body clings onto his form as you warble words that bleed with love.

✰ "That's right. Hold on even tighter, so tightly that it becomes impossible to let go. Let me feel you in your entirety." He's also been entirely consumed by the moment, losing beneath tidal waves of passion, as well as ones of heart-wrenching melancholy.

✰ Continuing to rub his body against yours in a soothing circular motion, Solomon parts from by sucking onto your bottom lips as his gaze locks into yours- it's so deep and profound that it leaves you trapped, unable to look away.

✰ By this time, you're a sweaty mess- Chaldea uniform all crumpled, as your body fills with electrical tremors of desire, tingling with pleasure. To Solomon, such a sight is alluring- though a twinge of something so forlorn (that even he can't quite grasp it) lacerates his heart at seeing you so laid so emotionally bare before him.

✰ "...Despite overcoming numerous hurdles, you are still so precious, so fragile a human. Romani- I- no, I'm sorry that I was unable to see things through with you until the very end. I... I love... you." Sealing his hesitant vow with lips that softly regaled your forehead, your eyelids; every facet of your face, loose tears make their way down his face, his once steely golden eyes now a pool of melting amber.

What a sorrowful finale this was turning out to be.

[blueskywater-happiness]

So I will dance with Cinderella ( Papa Ozymandias and Gudako)

Author's note: This idea struck me while I was listening to Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman and coincidentally remember a small fandom in Pixiv, making Ozymandias a father figure to Gudako. These characters are from Fate Grand Order.

-----

When did the time go? Ah it is really a hassle for such a radiant being such as I, the King of Kings and the incarnation of the Sun god Ra, the shining God King Ozymandias. Time is a fickle being that eludes even I. Yet that little girl, the Chaldean master, whose golden eyes glows nearly similar to such I, seem to be content lazing her days away although she does show potential.

Yet when did she became as dear to him, as what his beloved and younger brother is to him?

She spins and she sways to whatever song plays Without a care in the world And I'm sitting here wearing The weight of the world on my shoulders

She got better at fighting, ever since I first lay my eyes on her, her bravery, her foolishness, her courage...

Silly child. She leads her servants with such determination, even as the world and the universe itself began to test her mettle.

She is still a child at the end of the day, her youth and her charisma. I do not know why but I often wish she could have enjoyed her years like her peers.

Instead she acts as a hero, therapist, a king (such a title befitting such as her), master, and other terms that best describe this child.

I have no idea why we began to spend time together, of course the other servants make such remarks about us being seen often. Ha, romantic partners? No one can beat his beloved Queen in that category.

That child just makes his heart clench.

It's been a long day and there's still work to do She's pulling at me saying, "Dad, I need you There's a ball at the castle and I've been invited And I need to practice my dancin' Oh, please, daddy, please"

"Pleeeeease Pharaoh!" Gudako puts her hands together in a begging position. "Can you please teach me?? The others are busy and you're a Pharaoh once, surely you can teach me!?" she looks up pitifully. I laugh loudly "Ho! You ask for my assistance little mage? Very well!" I then pat her head "I expect I shall be rewarded me more of your current age's technology, Gold one and I need more games to compete!"

"Yes yes yes! And thank you! I don't know why Marie wanted a ball." Gudako sighs "Oh shoot I better get the Cu group to the training room, I'll see you later Pa-" she froze and turns red. "S-sorry!" Pa...?

...hahaha...

I cover my eyes as I laugh. Of course, that is the answer, how could I, the Great Pharaoh of Egypt, forget?

"I permit you to address me such, Gudako." I pat her head as she gape at me. She then smiles wide.

So I will dance with Cinderella While she is here in my arms 'Cause I know something the prince never knew Oh, I will dance with Cinderella I don't want to miss even one song 'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight And she'll be gone

Ah the ball, granted what he usually held back then is different from what the Queen of France is doing. It is unseemly for I to not attend. The King of Knights, the male one, and Golden One are beside me, we the Kings should observe how the children are to act. (King of Knight enough of those potato dishes, you act no different from your counterparts).

"Papa!" Golden one stare at me incredulously "She address you as a father?" his red eyes scan me. "Ho, are you envious that a child of her ability address me such? Such a worthy child as well." I slyly raise my wine. He snort "Hardly, Sun King. She is still a mongrel though worthy in my older self's eyes. I make exceptions to that." he sips his wine. I turn around to see Gudako-- I could not breathe. She looks beautiful, like a goddess, a princess-- Princess... his little princess... "What do you think papa?" she smiles at me "I ho--" "Radiant." I whisper to her "You are as radiant as the stars in the sky, little one." I extend my hand to her "Are you not going to dance with your father, little one?" I smiled softly to her. (I shall ignore those annoying light flashes from those cameras, honestly back in his days memories are more precious, living the moment than trying to capture a moment you are not in.)

Gudako giggles at me as she accepts my hand. "Of course I will dance with you papa!" I spun her slowly as our feet moves with the rhythm, as the minutes pass, those horrendous thoughts resurface... She's mortal, she could be attack at anytime... but for now, a dance will preserve their time together.

I held her hand a bit tightly, squeezing it a bit but not too hard.

For now, she is in my arms, dancing as her laughter echoes.

She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed She wants to know if I approve of the dress She says, "Dad, the prom is just one week away And I need to practice my dancin' Oh, please, daddy, please"

"What in Ra's name is prom..?" I look at Gudako as she and I went to the market-- mall. "All I see is a dance event similar to balls except with more alcohol for underage children like you." I mumbled

"It is like a rite of passage, Edison told me those around my age do this when they are in school." she tug me "Everyone is holding a Chaldean version of it. They say in America parents take their children to go shopping for the clothes~" she giggles.

Honestly those dresses do not fit her at all. "Such folly, little one." Although it is to be expected, I am use to her antics after all these years. "I can host events just for you."

Ah brother... my beloved Nefertari, you would adore her.

"Eh the point is it'll be among my age." she then grins "Buuuut--" I laugh "Ah you have yet to master dancing? Even when I started to mentor you for a few years? Perhaps you should cut back your habit playing with the sphinxes and stop skipping those lessons." I tease.

"Ah but papa!" she whines "You gave them to me!" she pouts. "Also I though you like--" "As a peer but not as a suitor to a child of mine." grumbling, an idea struck me "Honestly must you entertain his courtship? You, who I adopt and love as my own, shall be a Queen of her own Kingdom and lead legions of worthy servants, why, I can create a magnificent pyramid for you!"

Why do you even need to go away? You're still a child- my child.

"Papa! He's a nice guy and he helps me!"

"Well Golden One is not so nice but he helps, King of Knights is nice but a glutton--"

"Uncle Gilgil and Uncle Arthur are different!"

So I will dance with Cinderella While she is here in my arms 'Cause I know something the prince never knew Oh-oh-oh-oh, I will dance with Cinderella I don't want to miss even one song 'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight And she'll be gone

Her smiles eventually crack, her eyes dull, the world is so cruel. She collapses into my arms, another lostbelt. More blood on her hands.

I raise my staff to erect some sort of barrier, to not disturb her respite.

I want to take you away from here.

I gently run my hand through her hair, I suddenly heard someone entering. "You dare intrude my--" oh.. it is THAT boy. That--

He held his weapon tightly, eyes glowing with determination. "I am here for her, Pharaoh. Do what you must but you can't control what I want."

Insolent! Foppish, foolish, arrogant, wretched--

"Papa please..." she tugs my cape.

Why...?

She will be gone

If I left you go to him, then...

"Papa!" an echo of her younger voice rings in my head, I tried not to think.

I...

My little princess, where did you go..?

But she came home today with a ring on her hand Just glowing and telling us all they had planned She says, "Dad, the wedding's still six months away But I need to practice my dancin' Oh, please, daddy, please"

Golden one stares at me, a brow raise as he slides in a glass of wine for me. "Sun King, years already passed." he began.

I grumbled.

He scoffs "That boy, as much I regret saying such thing about mongrels, has proven himself. Did he not risk his life for her?"

"And so did the rest of us! And he is a servant! Can he truly give her the life she deserves!?"

Can I?

Pity flash across his eyes, oh perhaps my noble phantasm can erase his--

"Sun King, not everything stays the same nor shall anyone can escape the passage of time." he then gestures to where my princess is.

I froze, the white dress on her, the veil. She looks just as radiant, his little princess.

Soon a Queen to her King.

"Papa!" Gudako waves at me, a familiar twinkle in her eyes. Ah, even after all these years?

"She is still your princess, Sun King." a hand on my shoulder. "Ever the foolish inside even as she grows. Now go, your sulking is distasteful and frankly sickening."

I walk towards her, this time, it is my hand that is accepting hers. She grins up at me.

The wedding will be held six months from now...

When did the time go? Such a hassle for such a radiant being such as I, the King of Kings and the incarnation of the Sun god Ra, the shining God King Ozymandias. Time is kind yet cruel, it gives and takes.

So for now... as I dance and sway with her.

For now she is still my princess until the day I will lead her to the altar. For now I am her dance partner until that day.

"Thank you for dancing with me, papa." Gudako said to me in a lowly voice. "I love you papa."

A...ah... This child makes his heart clench.

"I love you too, my princess..."

I held her hand a bit tightly, squeezing it a bit but not too hard, just as before but this time a tear escape from my eye.

For now, she is in my arms, dancing as her laughter echoes.

So I will dance with Cinderella While she is here in my arms 'Cause I know something the prince never knew Oh-oh-oh-oh, I will dance with Cinderella I don't want to miss even one song 'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight And she'll be gone

[drvortigern]

anyway hi! i'm revealing the secret on my pinned post to say that i have a new oneshot up on my ao3, kiss_like_vortigern 🩷

go give it a read when you have the time ><

link to fic

[misusage-and-removal]

Man that. That's a depressing idea for a fgo fanfic      

Guda and castoria getting forced to relive lb6 with all their knowledge of what happens in it.

And they know everything in it isn't real as well.

The only other person in there that's probably also real is merlin. Either of them.

This feels like a dozen people can write it a dozen different ways. And all 12 will be absolutely heart wrenching. And a few will probably be amazingly cathartic.

I'd write it myself but I don't even know where to begin with ideas on how they'd be forced through their personal hell again.

[novelelitist]

Mahou Kemono Kaiju ☆ Illya!

Rating: General Audiences Characters: Illya, Shirou, Luvia, Rin, and Ruby (the Cat) Summary: Illyasviel von Einzbern is obsessed with magical girl cartoons, but otherwise, she's just like every other fifth grader whose parents are never home. One day on her way to school, she gets the chance to join her shojou heroes (and maybe those annoying older girls who like her brother)—but at what cost?!

This is THE Magical Girl-cat-cat-girl piece you didn’t know you needed for Illyasviel von Einzbern. It’s the fourth-wall breaking masterpiece that didn’t get banned in Australia. Go read it. It’s cute, funny, and a lovable parody of the magical girl genre.

[adelha-mathilde]

For the Right Reasons (FGO) drabble

content: Adelha is asked a complicated question by Ritsuka Fujimaru and Mash. So the current head of Chaldea's Arboretum Project takes the time to discuss this with the youths as they tend to her gardens. With many of the Servants present to weigh in and listen to the discussion. Established relationships, talk of intimacy and mature subjects, set shortly after the London Singularity.

// haven't touched FGO in ages so the idea for this came out of nowhere hope you all can enjoy the fic back to my corner I go //

The arboretum was full of activity this fine morning. Various tasks being seen to by either staff members or Servants for peace to reign. Yet a call over the comms would alert the head of Chaldea's Arboretum Project that two youths were headed to her location. Which had Adelha hum as she told Doctor Archaman she would be waiting for the two youths. So Ritsuka and Mash would arrive at the workshop Adelha frequented to find that she was already waiting for them. Several wicker baskets there on the front porch for Adelha to smile and hand one to Ritsuka right off. "Come along, sweeties. We may speak as we gather the fruits from the orchard. Heaven knows you both need the leisure of simple tasks as we talk. So let us walk and talk."

Mash wore a look of confusion before she did as instructed. Yet Ritsuka seemed more distracted than usual. The teenager moving with idle motions as a shadow emerged from the workshop. The Phantom of the Opera all but vibrating with an unspoken fervor that had his Master wave him to her side. The Assassin all but folding himself around Adelha to float as she walked with the two youths towards the orchards. It didn't take long for the Phantom to revert to spirit form so as to linger without being seen. Yet it held little over the conversation as the teenagers began their task of picking fruit from the trees. Minutes spent with Adelha engaging Mash with idle chatter so as to ease into the upcoming discussion.

After several minutes of simple fruit picking, Ritsuka finally stilled to let their question out into the open air. The sound both hoarse and hesitant. "Adelha. What is it really like to have sex with someone?" Mash blushed to drop the peach in her hand for it to fall to the ground as she shouted, "Master! What is this all about?!" This had Ritsuka flinch as their own blush crept over their face and ears. Yet Adelha merely chuckled to reach out a gloved hand and gently ruffle Mash's hair to calm her. "Be at peace, Mash. This is a conversation that all souls of flesh and reason must have at some point. So it is to seek better understanding that this question is asked."

Adelha moved to stand beside Ritsuka to then climb up the tree so as the reach the higher hanging peaches. Which had the hiding Enkidu smile to then drop to the ground and simply move the basket so as to catch what peaches Adelha dropped down. Leaving Ritsuka free to speak their mind. "A lot of the adults already have had sex for various reasons. Some have been parents and have even had many partners. Most times I know a mage has sex to either ensure their lineage into the next generation. Or for mana transfers with their Servants. But I haven't asked about what makes it right or wrong. There's so much conflicting data and various viewpoints on this. So I feel really at odds with this and scared that any choice I make will be the wrong one."

Mash looked very sad to move and take Ritsuka's hand in her own. A small showing of comfort between two youths trying their best to sail through uncertain waters. So Adelha gave a hum of approval to let her words fill with warmth as much as sincerity. "Wisdom sits well on your shoulders, Ritsuka. Responsibility dictates your conundrum. This in itself shows your strength of character. So breathe and let your mind and heart empty of all thought and worry. Only when a cup is empty may it hold water." Ritsuka blinked to then nod and do just that. Sitting down next to Mash as the two let their tension ease away. Adelha's kitten soon wandering up to crawl into Mash's lap even as Fou did the same for Ritsuka as Adelha watched them. Letting the moment relax before she continued her task of picking peaches from the high boughs.

Soon enough, Adelha spoke with thoughtful ease. Her words as ever sweet and lilted with those traces of Ireland. "A thoughtful old man once told me that there are three kinds of sexual intimacy. Carnal satiation. Seeking pleasure. And making love. The true intention the Almighty Lord had for sex was always to be the third choice. One meant as a divine blending of two into one. A way for a bride and groom to worship what they are under their wedding vows. Such is for loving and being loved in kind. It is based upon vulnerability that two souls might seek to become one. A way to empty all of yourself into another as they do the same in equality. Such would demand an unbreakable oath to keep such between the Almighty and the two who have chosen to join. Never to be repeated or boasted of with others. Something personal and private should be kept as a treasured moment to savor yet kept in sacred privacy."

Enkidu paused in their motions for but a moment before they chuckled in rich tones to look very thoughtful. The divine construct soon catching the peaches from the air with fluid and effortless motions as Mash gave a sigh of pure romantic emotions. "That sounds so beautiful and romantic. Like something out of a novel or black and white movie." But Ritsuka has a thought to tilt their head and have a realization. "Wait. I think David touched on something similar. He mentioned the Psalms written in scripture and that many of them are written as love songs to glorify the love between husband and wife as much as the love between God and man. Is that why this sounds so familiar?"

Adelha grinned to clap a few times and look elated. "You wouldn't be far off the mark on that idea, Ritsuka. The old man I am relating from was part of the church and tended Sunday mass for as long as he lived. He was a stubborn and grumpy sourpuss that tended to scold me more than he would praise me. Yet he was a good man who lived his life well." Mash gave her shy smile to note with a tinge of sadness, "You sound like he was very important to you. I take it he already passed away?" Adelha gave a nod to then sigh heavily. Yet there was still abiding love in her words. "Yes. I gave the eulogy myself. He and his wife led full lives and are still much loved by those who knew them. Their grandson is actually my first true love."

Both Ritsuka and Mash went bug eyed at this to look shocked as the Phantom of the Opera reformed to stay close behind his Master. Yet Adelha simply hummed a few loving intonations to her Servant for the Assassin to ease out of his rigidness for Adelha to continue picking the peaches from the high bows. "Jayden lived next door to me when I was a child. We basically slept in the same crib our families were so tight knit. His grandparents were the ones to raise him as much as myself. While my parents did the same for him. After the tragedy that killed my parents and I moved to Germany, Jayden always stayed in touch. We would see each other often. He would come to stay with my family in Germany during the Christmas season. While I would return to his family for some of the summer. Our friendship soon deepened into so much more. Hence why I chose him to be my groom." Ritsuka and Mash hung on every word even as the Phantom shifted to rest his head on Adelha's shoulder. The Servant having tears in his eyes just as his Master as she spoke more. "Jayden didn't live long enough for us to wed. Tuberculosis was ever part of his life and it was his death after twenty years of walking this earth. We only made love that one time and it was a true worshipping of what we were and would never get to be. A piece of me went with him into eternity just as I kept some of him in exchange. Yet the time we had to us is a priceless gift that I would be thankful for. In this way do I honor he that is my first true love."

Adelha looked down at Ritsuka and Mash to have them lock their gaze to her. A moment of unspoken thoughts and feelings passing between those present before Adelha smiled. Her words holding a single question. "Ritsuka. Mash. The real question you should always ask when it comes to intimacy is one I pose to you in this form. What are my reasons for wanting this other individual and are they for the right reasons? That is what will make the act of sex right or wrong for you deep down inside your hearts and souls. That is the most simple yet primary question you should ask of yourselves. So that is how we will end this discussion for now. I would advise both of you to think and study more with this question as you basic compass to finding out more. Just be aware. As your elder and older sibling figure, be warned that there will be a scolding in store for whichever one of you decides to act first and ask later. Now take the furry ones to your rooms and have a good meal. I recall our beloved Emiya was going to make a filling lamb stew for us."

Ritsuka took but a moment to collect themselves before smiling with relief and good cheer. Only to stand and help Mash up for them to head to the dining hall with Aqua and Fou still getting their much demanded pets and cuddles. Their forms fading into the tree line as Enkidu watched the youths depart. Their own words hinting at approval and warmth. "They leave with more questions than answers after your words of council. Yet they seem more certain than hesitant as they head to pursue those answers. My mother Aruru might wish to discuss more with you on your viewpoints. However, your words held your beliefs and truths in order to guide and nurture. Truly, beholding such moments is both captivating and amusing."

Adelha gave a chuckle of noise to then shift so that the Phantom of the Opera might hold her in his embrace more securely. The Assassin much like a pacified creature basking in the summer sun as Adelha turned to place a chaste kiss to his jaw not covered by his mask. Which had the Phantom give a shiver and keen of pure delight. The Master soon speaking with a light but pointed conviction. "I am here to Protect and Nurture. This is who I am, Enkidu. So whenever a soul has need of advice or comfort, I would freely give such. Now then. I think I want to treat Erik to a peach pie for being such a devoted shadow. Enkidu. Would you like to make one as well to bring to your Master later?" Enkidu looked very pleased at this offer to lift up the now full wicker basket and smile. "Why that sounds like a fine idea. A peach pie for my Master. As well as one for Gilgamesh. Let us go back to your workshop and make ready the oven."

[elstreem]

An actually short fanfic for once. lol

BediGuda, 724 words - just the two, spending some time together.

It was one idle afternoon, a precious time when things were not so busy - the two of them free, last Master of Humanity, and he the silver knight who attends to the King of Knights. 

A rare moment of peace, for them to lay together on the grass, Ritsuka curled up to Bedivere's chest, simply, quietly talking.

It was aimless chatter - reminiscence on hijinks in Chaldea, trying out a new recipe that the kitchen staff whipped up, a book they read together.

But the fact that they could do this -

That Bedivere, a knight once destined to fade from existence -

- he could do this. He could murmur into Ritsuka's ear words of a poem he'd loved -

“It went like this, Master -”

He kissed Ritsuka's ear, whispered words that rose and fell with rhythm, and Ritsuka lay still, blushing, face burning, heart pounding in her chest, wanting to laugh and run and shout, but she didn't, because here with Bedivere was the best place to be.

- laugh aloud over the latest mishap that happened to the unfaithful duo of the Knights of the Round Table -

“Melt was NOT having Tristan hit on her when he had just tried to woo Suzuka Gozen -”

“Oh, Sir Tristan. His courage...knows no bounds, but so does his bad judgement -”

“And Lancelot was chatting up Lip with motives in mind, but Mash saw him -”

“Ah, yes, I suppose everyone at Chaldea must have heard Sir Mash slamming Sir Lancelot into the near wall at what must have been the speed of sound!”

“Mash was sorry about the wall - er, walls she busted, she mowed through more than one, so that's why me and her and the Nemo Marines were fixing the walls -”

“Ahaha! Er - my apologies, Ritsuka. I didn't mean to laugh at you. And um, it is imprudent to laugh about my comrades' misfortunes, no matter if they brought it upon themselves.”

“Too late Bedi, I heard you laugh! You're so mean, laughing at your best friend like that, he he.”

“...well it is amusing, I cannot deny. Pfft. I mean, ahem. My sincere apologies, Master. I think I was helping with putting out the tea service for the afternoon so I was not there to curb Tris nor Sir Lancelot, but rest assured, next time -”

“Next time? So you know Tris is gonna do it again?”

“Unfortunately, of that, I am completely certain.”

“Pfft, ahaha, Bedi!”

“He he, well, next time, do come tell me, or Sir Mordred, Sir Gareth and might as well call Sir Percival too - I know Mordred will be quite happy to put Tris and Lancelot and in line -”

Ritsuka smirked and reached up to touch the tip of Bedivere's nose with a finger.

“Oho? And are you looking for a reason to bully Tris, too?”

Bedivere put on a thoughtful look, and spoke slowly, as if musing something.

“Nothing of that sort, of course! But he may need a gentle reminder that he has yet to pay back the debt he owes me during our time at Luluhawa…”

Oh, how Ritsuka laughed, the sound of it bright and happy and sweet to Bedivere's ears.

He found himself laughing too, in delight.

- to stay quiet as well, holding hands, Bedivere's left arm wrapped around Ritsuka's shoulders, his right hand clasping Ritsuka's left, their fingers linked, flesh and bone and silver.

He would stroke Ritsuka's back, and Ritsuka would snuggle close, relaxing, even dozing off, her breathing going deep and even.

And Bedivere would close his eyes as well - he didn't need to sleep, being a Servant -

But being with his beloved like this -

It felt so warm, so safe and secure.

It felt like home.

“Bedivere....”

Ritsuka's fingers squeezed, and Bedivere blinked awake, already alert.

“Thank you. For being here with me.” The words were a quiet murmur, barely audible.

A soft breath, hesitation, and Bedivere didn't say anything, simply waited, listening -

“Not just today - for answering my summons. For being by my side, all this time. Thank you…for loving me.”

In the quiet, there was only the sound of grass rustling in the breeze and the creak and clicking of metal, as Ritsuka squeezed Bedivere's hand.

And the knight's reply didn't need words, as he drew Ritsuka close in a hug.

“Of course…”

Know this, dearest to my heart. I feel the same way, too. 

[otaku-tactician]

Hello! Here's another fill for @nasuversekinkmeme. This is concerning the prompt in which an anon wished for some Cu Alter body horror headcanons.

This fic is rated mature for gore, violence, body horror, self-harm, swearing, shower scenes, nudity, symbiosis, and blood, and stars Cu Alter in the midst of a tragic battle, one that pushes him, his body and his armour to their utmost limits.

Summary:

Fused together with the mighty sea beast he once defeated- the indomitable Curruid Coinchenn- Cu Alter's armour is no ordinary suit of protection. What secrets- and perchance, horrors- may lurk beneath the depths of his spiky layers of defence?   (Written for a body horror prompt for Nasuverse Kinkmeme; this fic explores possible ways in which Cu Alter's armor interacts with both him and his body.)

[tailmoss]

2021年10月か11月　突発的にスゴイ久しぶりに露骨なベオ李（ベオ李？）（いや李ベオでもいいんですけど）のBLを描いたやつ。それもこれもFGO2021年ハロウィンで李書文（老）が王子様とかやってたからです。2019年ベオ李のBL同人誌出してた頃の自分でも、未来の自分から「3年後に公式で李書文が王子様になる」とか聞いたら危ない薬を始めた��とを疑うと思います。

[orchestrated-haunting]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Fate/stay night & Related Fandoms, Fate/Grand Order Rating: General Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Hector | Lancer & Fujimaru Ritsuka Characters: Hector | Lancer, Fujimaru Ritsuka Additional Tags: Light Angst, hector visits a museum, Museums, Not Beta Read Summary:

Maybe listening to Achilles’s grating voice boom around the hallways was not as bad as being in a silent museum looking at a painting of his own death.

[heavenelizabethleigh]

Breathe--Chapter 3 "Conversations"

The complete rewrite of Breathe's chapter 3. This includes a new scene, further character development, and general improvement to the story. Please enjoy.

Read it here

[has-gilgamesh-doneanythingwrong]

Can I request something with Lance Cu and a master who is into being bitten. Like in an NSFW way sorry if this is awkward I haven't requested anything before.

Hi anon, thanks for the request! That's totally fine. Seeing as you haven't specified any gender, I'll be keeping the master gender neutral (ayyy) and sticking to a more foreplay-based nsfw headcanon featuring Lancer Cu this time, with a little touch of sex, too. Please enjoy, and thanks for the wait!

Warnings: 18+ NSFW content (tagged as 'lemon fic'). Includes foreplay, some vague depictions of sex, shower scene and a lot of biting/ teeth action.

Cu Chulainn (Lancer) x Gender-Neutral Master NSFW Headcanons (Foreplay/ Biting Kink/ a 'bit' of sex)

✲ It starts off as a mere bit of banter, the two of you playfully teasing one another as usual; until Lancer suddenly catches you off guard- by snaking those lithe arms of his around yours from behind, nipping you lightly on the cheek! As his teeth lightly graze against the round flesh of your cheek, his hot breath mingles with your skin, as he finally releases his hold to take a breath that sends shivers down your spine; mingling warmly against the cool surface of your flesh.

✲ Explosive heat bursts through your body at the unexpected action, embarrassedly placing your hands upon the part of your cheek that was now tingling with pleasure! What was initially purposed to be a mischievous- yet also affectionate- action accidentally unveils one of your deepest desires, resulting in you sheepishly recoiling away.

✲ Lancer's crimson eyes widen with surprise as you twist away, his keen instincts instantaneously tuning into to your rapidly shifting mood.

✲ "...Yo, master. You alright there?" As Lancer peeks his head around your shoulders, his piercing red eyes gaze into yours; slightly concerned. There was no getting past this keen warrior's heightened senses, after all. Silence takes the helm as you mull over what to say, anxiety prickling at your throat; however you overcome that by simply admitting how you feel.

✲ "When you nip and bite at me like that, I like it a lot. In fact, I'd like it if you could do it some more..." Throwing all fear to the wind, you courageously and directly confess the truth; pride swelling within Lancer's chest at the fact that you were willing to entrust him with your feelings. And it sure as hell feels great for you to release such a heavy burden from your shoulders as well.

✲ Not one to miss a beat, he skillfully plays along with your request; easing you in with gentle nips against your earlobe, as well as the nape of your neck; your breath quickening as his teeth and tongue mark you- fluctuating between nipping and licking at said sensitive spots. Now that he knew what you liked, Lancer was going to tease you as much as he possibly could about it- come hell or high water.

✲ As your knees buckle at the growing intensity of his ministrations against your neck, growing increasingly desperate for him to bite just a little bit harder, to suck just a little bit deeper; sparks of heat meld against your body as his hands slip underneath your clothing, Lancer's fiery hot touch setting your bare skin alight. Gasping from the unexpected heat now blistering against your once-cool skin, Lancer vehemently smirks.

✲ "Oho, master. Seems like you enjoyed that. If you want more...then tell me. I'll make you feel real damn good." The low hum of his whispering reverberates around your cranium, your heart's thudding beats echoing as loudly as the crashing beats of a heavy bass, as you regard the darkening of his eyes- Lancer's maroon hues now misting with lust.

✲ Barely managing to stammer out your request (who could blame you for that, with him being so intense?), within one slick movement, he slips the clothing off your shoulders; casually dipping his head into the crevice between your shoulder and neck as he presses his teeth lightly against the exposed flesh of your skin; his eagerness to drive you to the edge motivating him to an immense degree!

✲ His exhilarating bite evolves into an almost insatiable sense of pleasure, as he proceeds to then suck deeply against the now-throbbing zone-it sending tingles up your spine, as you moan at how good it feels. Now the whole area had been claimed with a hickey large enough for the entire world to see.

✲ "Fuck, I love it when you moan like that." Tell him how good it feels. Your response is what drives him on to please you even more. A smug aura laces his words, as he carries on, "So, tell me what you want next. Whatever you need...I'll make sure to fuck you real good-!!" His arousing words are brought to a startling halt, as you flip around, so that you're facing him- impishly grounding your hips against his own.

✲ Now Lancer is the one who's taken aback, a bashful expression briefly fluttering through his features. However, it's only a matter of seconds before he's matching your pace, fingers kneading into your hips as the two of you rub against one another, a delicious friction kicking up between you both.

✲ As he devilishly smirks, the sexual tension between the two of you becomes palpably tight, you pulling him into an intensely passionate kiss that quickly devolves into fervent grabbing and touching- as you fall into a twisted heap on top of one another, tongues encircling one other. Pulling briefly away from the kiss, he purposely bites your lower lip, relishing in the pure bliss that emanates from you; finding the dazed expression in your eyes to be rather endearing.

✲ By this time, all matters of clothing begin to lose their place- as you undress one another, your lips greedily claiming any spots of his exposed skin. Any pauses in your exploration of his form is responded to in kind by him nibbling at the weak spots all over your body- the fleshy parts of the thighs, the soft parts of the stomach, and especially any other spots that you particularly like- the twinging of his numerous bites numbed by the electricity sent skirting up your body by his velvety tongue.

✲ Mind exploding with desire, all thoughts concentrate onto him. You wanted him. Now. Craved him, even. However, Lancer is forever the tease; smirking at the increasing desperation of your trembling form as he gently tests the limits of your patience by sliding his slick cock extremely close to the parts of you that were hungering for him; yet refusing to give you the sweet sense of relief that you were so badly yearning for!!!

✲ However, such teasing doesn't last for long as the lust takes over, trapping you both beneath its heady mist. Sweating bodies melding against one another, as you both settle into a frenetic rhythm that gradually builds in intensity- slippery smacking noises echoing all around as you become deeply entwined with one another's insides; the world twists into a murky, dazed mist. The feel of his cock is incredibly good- turning you completely and utterly inside out. As you heave such words of praise through labored breaths, Lancer releases a breathy laugh- only then to double down in intensity.

✲ The pace becomes so tight, so deep; hitting all of the right places in a way that makes your body curl, hands gripping onto the bedsheets for dear life, as a burgeoning warmth kicks up a rush inside of you- filling your belly with heat. The pleasure is so insatiable that all you can do is whimper- however, Lancer is far from finished yet.

✲ Just as you can feel the ensuing waves of an orgasm reaching you- threatening to spill over the edge- he clamps his teeth into your neck, biting you exactly the way that you like it. This topples you over the edge as only white takes over your vision, your body pulsating with an entire legion of heavenly waves of pleasure. He too loses himself to the sensations, the two of you wholeheartedly indulging within one another; as you press your hands into his flaming hot back, nails digging into his skin.

✲ After such a glowing, white-hot night; the two of you wash the dew of the night away within a soothing shower, torridly kissing as he fervidly backs you up against the shower wall; searing heat drifting through the steamy air.

Things seemed to be far from over.

The night is still yet young, after all...