#FOR THE LOVE OF FUCK I NEED AN EMOTIONAL SUPPORT SCOUT TO SLEEP ON

[michibites]

im,, exhausted,,,just gonna,,nap

[kaaaaaaarf]

Dearest karfyyy for dad ask game please i need more KLORE

39 , 24, 4

<3 <3 <3

Sailor Scout!!! ✨✨ I am always here to drop klore on you.

4. Favourite chore?

I really don't mind doing the dishes most of the time. I find it sort of calming and I have an order in which I clean everything. It's my go-to chore when I'm stressed...I have always been a panic cleaner. Oh, you know what. It's vaccuuming. I fucking love it, I get out my little hand held vac and am able to get into the little crevices and corners. It's so satisfying.

24. Do you get your government mandated 8 hours every night?

Lol no. I do try really hard, but during the week I usually average around 6 or 7. I sleep for like 12 hours on weekends, though. I actually need to get a good amount of sleep every night or else I could trigger a manic episode. 🙃 I take sleeping pills.

39. What little treat do you always get when you run errands?

A little coffee always!!! I need my special coffee or I will perish, you understand. If I'm at the drug store I always grab an emotional support Dasani, too.

asks for people in their 30s

[cowboycakes]

Hi! ur writing is incredible and i saw that requests were open and i just had to go for it. could you possible write a ReinerxFem! reader where she’s really seriously injured and tries to hide it from everyone, until she passes out in Reiner’s arms (cliche i’m sorry) and he’s just SO mad at himself for not noticing before and he’s so worried and he cares for the reader so much while she’s unconscious and after she wakes up? Just like so much fluff and angst and Reiner being a guilty fucker as he is but also like extremely protective and caring? Sorry it’s so specific. Thank you!🥺❤️

Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy this fluffy little piece!

Tender Loving Care 

Pairing: Reiner Braun x fem!Reader

Themes: Fluff, angst, hurt/comfort, Reiner’s guilty ass 

Warnings: Reader uses she/her pronouns, severe injury/blood and bleeding/recovery, fainting, hospital setting, profanity

Word Count: 1.5k

You stumble into the medical tent, plopping your sweaty body down on a cot. Dirt covered hands rummage through a med kit until they come across a bundle of white bandages. You form them tightly around your thigh, applying pressure that you hoped would stop the bleeding. You’d really messed up on the mission today, completely misfiring your ODM gear when the first titan came into view. Your legs hit a tree branch, hard. Nerves would often get the best of you like that.

And now you’re left with the consequence - a giant gash. The sight of it made you feel faint. Blood wouldn’t cease to seep through the mesh material surrounding your wound, even after rewrapping it a few times.

You pack some extra gauze into it before trying to stand up and go to find the rest of the group. Before you take your first step, the tent door flies open. 

“I’ve been looking everywhere for you! What’s wrong?” Reiner shouts, rushing over to your side. 

You secretly relished in the feeling of him worrying for you sometimes. 

This whole dynamic between the two of you began from a chance pairing in some training exercises. Reiner had played the cocky tough guy at first, trying to show off and take over every exercise the two of you were supposed to do together. This irritated you to no end, obviously. Your solution was to get under his skin: make him laugh, tease him and poke at him until that hard headed exterior of his cracked. With time, it eventually did, revealing a big softie who cared for you more than he’d like to admit. 

“Just me folding under pressure. The usual,” you sigh, taping your bandages down, “it’s just a scratch.”

“Don’t lie, let me see it,” he says gently, crouching down in front of you to inspect your injury. 

“No!” you laugh as you press a hand onto your bandage, “I’m perfectly fine! We need to get going, anyway.”

Reiner looks up to you, unimpressed. He could always see right through your fibs. You smile guiltily at him as he stands up. 

“I’m not convinced that’s just a scratch,” Reiner mumbles.

“Sure it is! Just watch,” you declare as you walk toward the exit. 

You couldn’t hide your limp. 

“Nope. Absolutely not,” Reiner interrupts. He stands in front of you and motions for you to get on his back. You sigh, but reluctantly climb on anyway. 

You loop your arms around his neck as he moves his hands to support your thighs, being extra careful around your injury. 

The pain wasn’t getting any duller, even though you weren’t trying to walk now. You lay your cheek down on Reiner’s shoulder as his big strides carried you toward the horse and cart that was set to take everyone back to headquarters. Your body goes limp on the short journey, feet dangling and heavy eyes closing. 

Reiner gently sets you down beside him whenever you two reach your ride. He instinctively puts a big arm around your sore shoulders, pulling your body in close to his warm chest. 

“That better just be a scratch, or you’re never gonna hear the end of it,” Reiner teases, squeezing your arm. 

You huff in response, closing your eyes again. 

The rest of the group eventually arrives at the cart - most of them as sweaty and beat up as you were. However, you were feeling weaker by the minute. 

“Woah, y/n, you ok? You look pale...” you hear Annie question as she boards the cart.

You look down to your leg, quick to cover it with your hands before Reiner could see. Blood had made its way through your bandaging again.

“Yeah, I’m just fine,” you laugh nervously, “thanks Annie.”

You weren’t fine. You were becoming increasingly lightheaded - feeling yourself break into a cold sweat as your breathing becomes shallow.

The cart eventually starts to move, its wooden wheels creaking as it makes its way over the bumpy path home. You try to focus on the scenery moving around you, but your vision is too blurred. 

The state of your body was now making you nervous. You decide to close your eyes and lean your head against Reiner’s chest, gripping a sweaty hand on the back of his shirt, trying to ground yourself.  He rubs his hand up and down your arm slowly in response, calming you down a bit.

“We’re almost home. I’ll get you feeling better once we’re there, ok?” Reiner says.

“Ok…” you smile, beginning to feel yourself fade in and out a bit.

The cart finally comes to a halt. Reiner stands up before you and helps your woozy legs to straighten with the support of his hand in yours. He steps off the wooden cart first, opening his arms up so he could pick you up again. 

“Reiner, I’m okay,” you say, letting go of his hand, “promise.”

You look down at the dusty ground from your position on the cart, now standing completely unassisted.

Ok, just a small step, right? Three feet at most. Just move your foot forward, out into the abyss below the cart. 

Suddenly, your vision is a mere tunnel, blackness encroaching rapidly from the outsides of your eyes. Your body is in free fall, no longer under control of your mind. 

The last thing you sense is a pair of big arms catching you princess style. 

••••••••

“Dammit!” Reiner hisses, turning fast on his heels toward the infirmary. He’s quick to dodge the other scouts walking away from the cart, moving as fast as he could while keeping your limp body still in his arms. 

I’m always so fucking oblivious. Why do I ever listen to her? Always trying so hard to make sure she’s not being a burden. Of course she was lying to me, why couldn’t I have just taken better care of her from the start?

He slides through the infirmary front doors, alerting some nurses behind the desk of your condition. He keeps you tight in his arms as they swiftly guide you to a room. You let out a little groan once he sets you down on the hospital cot. 

God dammit. This is all my fault. Damn I can’t stand to see her face like this, all tensed up - she must be in so much pain. Shit, I am not about to tear up right now. 

Nurses rush over to you, quick to put you on some fluids and start sewing up your leg. Your condition quickly stabilizes, allowing the nurses to give you some much needed time to sleep off your injuries. 

Reiner insisted on taking over the nurses' duties after that point. Big, gentle hands would change out your bandaging every so often, along with keeping cold rags on your head and holding your hand when looks of discomfort appeared on your face. In his mind, it was the least he could do to subdue his guilt - to make it up to you.

He sat there all night, a big nervous mess in the chair he pulled up next to you. He hated getting so emotional like this, especially around someone who he needed to believe he was invincible. Luckily for him, you were still sleeping like a baby, unaware of his concerns. 

You finally open your groggy eyes early in the morning - the sun hasn't even peaked over the horizon yet. Your unfocused gaze wanders to the side of the bed. 

There he is - his head sits in his hand as he stares out the dark window from his chair. His short blonde hair is disheveled, probably from nervous hands running through it all night. Dark circles encompass his upper cheeks. He clearly hadn’t slept a wink.

“Hey,” you whisper.

Reiner jumps a little bit from his daze, quickly turning to look at you. He lets out a long sigh of relief, wiping a hand down his tense face.

“You had me worried sick,” he grumbles. You hum in response, a sleepy smile accidentally forms across your cheeks.

He half-smiles back, studying the sweet look on your face, “I’m just glad you’re alright.”

“Did you sleep?” you question.

He blushes a little, “You don’t need to be worrying about me, y/n.”

You scoot over on your cot, pulling the sheets down to expose a little spot for him to lay. His eyes get wide, darting back and forth between you and the empty half of the bed a few times.

He gets up from his chair quietly and makes his way to your bed, sliding under the white sheets and placing his tired head on the pillow. You move in close, placing your head in the nook between his chest and his bicep. A muscular arm wraps around your waist as his head leans over to rest against yours.

The two of you lay together in the silence of the hospital, chests rising and falling at slowing rates. You felt completely at ease now, knowing all the lengths Reiner had gone to in order to keep you safe.

“You know, once I wake up,” he yawns, his words becoming slower and slower as sleep creeps over him, “you're never… gonna… hear… the end of it.”

[canary3d-obsessed]

Restless Rewatch: The Untamed Episode 10 second part

(Masterpost) (Other Canary Meta)

Warning: Spoilers for All 50 Episodes!

Unclean Realm

Lan Wangji has a Louis Henry Sullivan moment on seeing the Nie family home, becoming enraptured by its overwrought monumental architecture after a lifetime of restrained good taste and single-story buildings.

He approaches the fortress with the expression of delighted wonder that he usually reserves for when he’s looking at the moon or at Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian is like, yep that’s a building, all right, but he supports Lan Wangji’s kinks.  

Meng Yao tells them about the Wen Clan directive, and has what appears to be a moment of genuine, affectionate amusement at Nie Huaisang’s reaction.

Jiang Cheng kinda blames the Lans for inventing the whole “indoctrination” thing and for encouraging his brother’s disaster bi tendencies. Wei Wuxian responds by complimenting the Lan Clan, almost like someone who met his true love got some real value out of the instruction he received there.  

(more after the cut)

One of the great ironies of this story is that Wei Wuxian sort of becomes a rogue Lan disciple because of his relationship with Lan Wangji. He relies on Lan temperament techniques, uses music as a primary cultivation method, has committed all of the Lan rules to his supposedly terrible memory and cites them on multiple occasions, and is an important mentor for the younger generation Lan disciples. Because Hanguang-Jun is just that good in bed.

Xue Yang in the background of this conversation is channeling OP’s church-enduring, school-enduring inner 10-year-old.

Nie Mingjue, Chifeng-Zun, appears, and couldn’t be more different than his brother. On first watching this episode, I saw him as a grumpy, sexy, very emotional leather daddy man who is quick to anger. Rewatching, I see someone who’s struggling with a growing illness...the resentful energy kind.

Nie Mingjue’s handling of resentful energy is very different from Wei Wuxian’s straightforward interest and acceptance. NMJ has a traditional cultivator’s view of it, regarding it as evil and as something to resist, while he is literally carrying it on his back. He’s like a secret alcoholic who is preaching temperence, and can’t find a way to be reconciled with himself.  

At this point of the story, Nie Mingjue is keeping it together, but is under a hell of a lot of stress, and Baxia’s blood thirst is already maybe a problem.

The Yunmeng bros think that Nie Huaisang’s fear of his brother is hilarious, because they don’t understand the situation. They think he’s just living in a hideously toxic family dynamic like theirs, when actually he’s in a loving, sorta healthy, if parentless, family that is being crushed under a generational curse.

Compliments for the Yunmeng Bros

I’m not the first meta poster to notice how happy Jiang Cheng is to be praised by Nie Mingjue.

He never gets this at home. Jiang Yanli praises him, but in that watery “you tried your best” way that doesn’t really stick.  Nie Mingjue’s praise really means something, because he is a fearsome warrior and stern authority figure. And this is a double compliment, because Nie Mingjue says he heard it from Lan Xichen, and agrees with it.

Let’s Make Terrible Decisions

Keep Xue Yang alive, says Wei Wuxian, and Meng Yao immediately agrees, although I’m pretty sure he would have proposed that even if WWX hadn’t.

So they do, not realizing that “kill him later” is never a good plan for someone who 1. super needs killing 2. has a whole lot of death-dealing skills.

Future clan leader Jiang Cheng notices how smart and talented Meng Yao is.  Xue Yang finds it hilarious when the trio praises Meng Yao, possibly because their evil team up is already underway.

Boss’ Bed Warmer Son of a Ho

The constant insults toward Meng Yao are about his mom, but there’s another level of leering implication, that Meng Yao seems to encourage in his conversation with the soon-to-be-murdered guard captain.

Nie Mingjue elevated him way above his expectations, and he is ridiculously pretty, which has to create rumors. In the Nightless City scenes when he’s fondling Baxia and telling Nie Mingjue’s family secrets there’s definitely a sense of intimacy that’s not just “loyal retainer.”

I feel like maybe this whole exchange is a bit of theater designed to show Xue Yang something without showing it to anyone else. Meng Yao didn’t need to have this conversation in front of his prisoner.

Let’s Do Exactly What We Said We Wouldn’t

Once the younger quartet are alone with Nie Mingjue, Wei Wuxian crosses the room away from his friends and practically into Lan Wangji’s pocket, if Lan Wangji had pockets.

He has no pockets and also has no personal bubble any more, when it comes to Wei Wuxian.

We could make a weapon out of Yin Iron, Wei Wuxian says, completely forgetting his entire conversation with Lan Yi, apparently. Lan Wangji doesn’t argue with this idea.

Nie Mingjue warns Wei Wuxian not to try it.

I stabbed a man in Qinghe just to watch him die

Nie Mingjue is like the Johnny Cash of the cultivation world, carrying the weight of his poor choices and trying to steer the young folk to the path of righteousness. But--like Johnny Cash--his bad choices have made him really fucking cool, so he isn’t very good at deterring anybody.

Meng Yao Didn’t Come Here to Make Friends

Immediately after Meng Yao’s fellow Nie clan people call him “son of a whore” again, Wei Wuxian meets him, is nice to him, addresses him by his military title, bows to him, asks why he’s away from the party, and thanks him for his service.

But Meng Yao has already decided to make friends with Xue Yang, so Wei Wuxian goes onto his list of people that he doesn’t give a crap about except if they can be useful to him.  Then Meng Yao goes to make out hatch a plot with Xue Yang.

I’ll Sleep On Your Roof

Meeting SongXiao seems to have done away with the last of Lan Wangji’s resistance to his connection with Wei Wuxian.

He hears a noise on the roof and, when realizing it’s Wei Wuxian, he smiles one of his tiny reserved smiles before heading outside.

When he sees Wei Wuxian drunkenly sprawled on the roof, limbs akimbo, wine on his chin and neck, mouth full of poetry about the open road, Lan Wangji gives him the most fond look imaginable.

Then he reluctantly leaves, with his signature “say goodbye, but only when he can’t hear you” thing.

They’ve both come a really long way since their first meeting. Wei Wuxian is openly and vocally attaching himself to Lan Wangji...but is not actually entering his space or asking for anything from him; he just wants to be near him, and wants to let him know that. “I’ll sleep on your roof tonight.”

And Lan Wangji just...loves him. Wei Wuxian is drunk, embarrassing, demonstrative, eager to make a hell weapon out of yin iron, touchy feely, and absurdly sexy. And Lan Wangji is pretty okay with all of that.

I Might Have Been Drunk

Wei Wuxian carefully avoids telling Jiang Cheng where he was last night.

Even if he did get blackout drunk, he would have woken up on Lan Wangji’s roof. And I don’t think he was as drunk as that. He just knows Jiang Cheng wouldn’t like the truth.

Wen Fucking Chao, Again

Wen Chao shows up to be annoying and boring.  This leads to a pretty good fight between Nie Mingjue and Wen Zhuliu. Note that when the chips are down, Nie Huaisang stands with his Gege without any cowering. Almost as if he had hidden reserves of bravery, and is not as helpless as he lets on.

Wen Zhuliu isn’t styled to be super hot, although he’s certainly compelling, and in Dance of the Phoenix he looks good with sensitive-guy hair wispies. I wonder what actor Feng Mingjing looks like out of character?

BRB, adding a tag to my follow list

Battle Bros

When the fighting breaks out, the Yunmeng brothers are decisive and united, with Wei Wuxian giving orders to Jiang Cheng and JC following without hesitation.

I feel like if these two could have gone through a few big battles together, instead of being separated during most of the Sunshot campaign, their whole relationship would have improved. On the battlefield, they respect, trust, and understand each other.  

The Pointy End

Nie Mingjue is holding his own against Wen Zhuliu, but he gets distracted by Meng Yao hollering “Xue Yang has escaped” and then shanking the guard captain right in front of him.

Wen Zhuliu takes advantage of the distraction to aim a very slow stab at Nie Huasang, and Meng Yao jumps in front to get stabbed on his behalf.

When the Yunmeng bros show up to help NMJ, Wen Zhuliu immeiately yanks Wen Chao back behind him and points his sword at Wei Wuxian. He absolutely sees these two as a serious threat.  Considering that eventually WWX is going to kill Wen Chao while JC kills Wen Zhuliu, this concern is not misplaced.

Wei Wuxian tells Wen Chao to stop being such a jerk, and Wen Chao menaces Wei Wuxian and gloats about the burning of cloud recesses. The burning, that is, of some part of cloud recesses that doesn’t include the library, the Jingshi, the main cultivation chamber, the rabbit warren, or Lan Qiren’s house, unless the Lan Clan is really really good at rebuilding things to very exact specifications.

In a rare moment of seeing Meng Yao’s internal thoughts, he is worried about Lan Xichen when he hears about cloud recesses.

The Yelling Part

Now we have the particularly nasty breakup between Nie Mingjue and Meng Yao. It’s...got some layers. Meng Yao is cowering on the floor, but is not apologizing.

He never apologizes throughout this encounter.

孟瑤無悔  - Meng Yao (has) no regrets

This scene is amazing and excruciating to watch, even more when you know what’s ahead.

What the Fuck is Meng Yao’s Plan

On one level this is Meng Yao, manipulative sociopath, setting up a cover story for his aiding and alliance with Xue Yang.  On another, this is Meng Yao, loving subordinate, being tossed aside by his lord because he dared to stand up for himself.

He uses the same “scout’s honor” gesture we’ve seen Wei Wuxian use to swear he’s telling the truth. Wei Wuxian is always lying when he uses this gesture.

I’m...not sure exactly what Meng Yao’s plan is, with all these chess moves? By stabbing the captain in front of NHS, he created an opportunity to plant a cover story about Xue Yang’s escape. He might be hoping that Nie Mingjue will forgive him and keep him on, while Xue Yang can stay in his back pocket to be used later.

Dry eyes? Try Visene

Or he might be intending to get kicked out, given his non-apology. In any case, Nie Mingjue is weeping during this encounter, and Meng Yao...isn’t. He is signaling distress in his voice, expression, and body language, but his eyes are dry up until the last moment, and even then they just glisten a bit. In a show where every actor is an expert at crying on cue, that’s got to be a deliberate choice.

Which isn’t to say that Meng Yao is faking being full of emotion in this scene. It’s just that the emotion isn’t necessarily sorrow.

What Does Nie Mingjue’s Head Think

Flip the view and this is about Nie Mingjue being betrayed by a subordinate, who has turned out to be a self-serving murderer. And on another level it’s Nie Mingjue being betrayed by his lover, who was just using him for advancement.

I rewatched the later episode where we get the scene as Nie Mingjue’s head perceived it, and he’s particularly brokenhearted and disillusioned from his head’s POV.  In that version there is a telling addition to the conversation.

Nie Mingjue asks about the guys who were roasting Meng Yao behind his back. He asks, if I hadn’t come, would you have murdered all of them?

Um. No, dude. Of course fucking not. That’s what a patriarchal authority does. That’s the way an angry Nie Mingjue/Baxia team might solve a problem.

Meng Yao has to use subterfuge to kill his enemies. And while he super hates being called “son of a whore” it’s absolutely not enough to make him kill someone, with the risk murder brings. Likewise, being treated well isn’t enough to make him spare someone. Nie Mingjue totally doesn’t get this, because he’s been the patriarch of this clan his entire adult life.

And Here’s the Actual Problem

There is a betrayal here, but Nie Mingjue is not simply a victim.  Whether it’s a sexual relationship or a non-sexual bond of affection, there can be nothing solid in Nie Mingjue and Meng Yao’s relationship within a feudal society, because it is fundamentally unequal. Even if they love each other deeply - which I’m not convinced either of them does - every encounter they have is tainted with power dynamics.

Meng Yao has been elevated by Nie Mingjue and quite probably taken into his bed, as well as being told many family secrets, but has not been given a new surname (like, for example, Wen Zhuliu was) or independent power. More importantly, Nie Mingjue has not used his authority to remove or punish the many people who disrespect his subordinate.  Lan Qiren would have had all of those gossipy fuckers kneeling in the snow, and Wen Ruohan would feed them to his mosh pit zombies.

Meng Yao is a murderous little snake, but he is right to be angry with Nie Mingjue about some things, and his pursuit of his own agenda is understandable.

Well, That Was a Slice

Meng Yao leaves, hurt, with a dignified bow; just as he did that one time when his dad kicked him down the Carp Tower steps.

Take note, both patriarchal authorities: that is his way of saying “I’m going to murder you one day.”

Nie Mingjue sits with his broken heart, as we realize that we’ve only spent 20 minutes with this guy and we’ve gone on an entire emotional journey with him. This episode packed in a LOT.

Soundtrack: Johnny Cash, Folsom Prison Blues

[liam-cadmus]

ANBU

Sasuke grits his teeth, hiking Neji higher on his back. He’s thanking Kami that the Hyuuga is light— the fact should be worrying, if they’re not unconscious and bleeding right now.  The omega has a loose hold around his neck, his black cloak enveloping Neji enough that the warmth of his back is keeping him cold. He tries to hold Neji as securely as he can with one arm, the other supporting Shikamaru. 

His hawk summon, Aya is guiding him through the forest outside the walls, slowly walking closer the gate. Their shadows isn’t seen in the dark, his mismatched eyes looking around in case they get ambushed again.  Wet plops of mud can be heard from his footsteps, dragging Shikamaru with him. He ignores the shaking of his hands, ignoring it to move faster, despite the protest of his wheezing breaths. 

He feels Shikamaru waking up from where he’s supporting him with his left arm, the beta thankfully— awake. “Deer, wake up.” he says quietly, still pulling the other teen along, “It’s just a bit from here, just open your eyes please.”  He pleads, no matter how it hurts his pride, but his emotions are haywire— sometimes being an Uchiha has it’s downsides— and his anxiety is high-strung. His alpha instincts making his ears ring, the overwhelming impulse to protect the people important to him.

Shikamaru blearily opens his eyes, making him sigh in relief seeing familiar chocolate brown eyes. “You with me?” he asks, one brow raised. “Barely.” Shikamaru mumbles, the Nara inhaling his alpha scent, the toasted almonds and smokey cinnamon pheromones helping the beta gather his thoughts. He breathes out slowly, gritting his teeth at the bones in his ribs grating against each other, shivering as the cold wind hits his bare chest, his clothing around the two males he’s with to keep them warm. Shikamaru moves to pull away, making him click his tongue in annoyance. “Deer, stay close.” he tugs the beta closer, Shikamaru’s arm hitting his rib by accident, making him hiss in pain. Shikamaru, only pulls away more when he hears the hiss, attempting to wrench free of his hold. He would be amused if he his instincts aren’t screaming at him to not let go any of the two. His hand grips Shikamaru’s waist tight — making sure that the beta can’t be separated from him.

The beta male just narrows his brows, titling his head, licking his dry, chapped lips. “Why do you keep pulling me?”

 He shakes his head, pretending to shrug, before leaning on the wall, relieved to see they’re in the outskirts. He stops in his tracks, leaning on the wall with his dislocated shoulder, his chakra exhaustion finally putting a toll on his battered body. “Just don’t walk away, you might pass out, you hit your head pretty damn bad earlier.” he rasps, while lowering Shikamaru on the ground slowly, the Nara sinking on the muddy grass below him, blinking repeatedly to fight the sleep away.

His body aches for carrying the two for so long, for once thanking Kami for being an alpha, even if omega genetics is the major second gender running in Uchiha Clan.  “Kakashi,” he calls out, mismatched eyes staring at the lone dark grey eye in front of him, relief flooding his whole being at seeing reinforcements arriving.

“Kid, how are you still standing?” his sensei asks him, sturdy hands holding him up while Wolf carries Neji from his back, Sasuke falling forward to Kakashi’s chest. “5 soldier pills, 3 adrenaline shots and pure sheer will.” he snaps, exhaling shallowly. “Crow, Wolf, we need to shunshin these three to the hospital.” The two other ANBU scouts carry his team on their backs, Itachi and Kiba staring at him with worry.  He waves a hand dismissively, smiling in satisfaction when he sees Itachi’s red eyes glaring at him. “I’m fine, aniki.” he answers, letting Kakashi support him as they shunshin, arriving in the hospital, nurses and doctors alike walking out of their way.

Kakashi drops him to a bed, Sakura slamming the door open with Ino, Tsunade coming in last, the woman glaring at him. “Brat, what mess did you get into?” she pursed her lips, her eyes looking over the obvious bruising by his ribs, and the shudders going through him.

“Obito is with Shisui finishing the mission, they’ll arrive using the Kamui in a bit.” he croaks out, reassuring Kakashi and Itachi for their lovers.

Tsunade rolls her eyes at him, fondly scoffing a ‘tch’ under her breath. “I question myself why you’re my favorite Uchiha.” she says at him, earning a shallow breathy laugh from him, “It must be my charms, a lot of people say so.” 

He drew in a large breath when Tsunade moved his bones back into place, the action making him choke on his breath, coughing wetly. “What happened, Uchiha, you’re only supposed to get intel.” Sparrow asks him, making him look up from where he’s staring at his bloody knuckles.

“Kiri ANBU, three teams, ambushed us.” Several winces comes from the other ANBU scouts, Kakashi’s lips pressed to a tight line. “Obito’s fine, old man.” he teases, patting Kakashi’s arm with his unoccupied hand.  Tsunade decides to click his shoulder back in that exact moment, making him slap the arm in accident. He bit his lips enough to draw blood, turning to the woman with his eyes whirring, glare in place. “That was uncalled for.” Tsunade looks at him, before her hands glow in green chakra, healing the muscles and tissues around the socket on his shoulder, humming. “You should’ve paid attention then, brat.”

He rolls his aching shoulder blades as he leans back on the hospital bed, inhaling the scent of antiseptic and white sheets. He looks at his shivering pale skin, while wrapping his ankles together, whistling, “Thank you, mom.” he says, watching as Tsunade fondly pats his leg. “Try not to get hurled across the field next time.” she jokes, if only she knew. “You should tell that to Shika.” he points to the half-asleep Nara, the beta opening an eye to glare at him. “No, but really, you were thrown across the field.” he says in a firm voice, knowing the beta didn’t remember it, “Kami, my heart stopped beating for like, minutes.” he admits, crossing his arms. “Glad to know you care for me, Uchiha.” Shikamaru yawns, pillowing his head on his folded arms. “As if carrying you two across a whole damn forests isn’t caring, I don’t know what it is.” 

He moves to stand, bare feet planting on the cold ground, stubbornly ignoring the protests of the others telling him he’s healing. He opens the bathroom before looking at them flatly, over his shoulder. “I don’t want to sleep from getting doused on the rain.”  He gestures at his bare chest before turning to Shikamaru, “No matter how lazy you are, you better take a shower or else,” he threatens, narrowing his eyes, “I won’t hesitate to drag you to the shower, wounded or not.” The Nara sighs in defeat, before dryly answering. “Yes Captain.”  He closes the door, turning the knob to the hottest setting, pleased when he sees three folded clothes on the shelf, amused that the three of them already have a separate room from the other patients.

He walks out the shower, steam billowing by his ankles, drying his wet dark locks. He chuckles watching Shikamaru dragging his sleepy form in the bathroom, throwing his towel to the back of the brunette.

The brunette glares at him, before picking the towel off the ground, closing the door behind him. Sasuke fixes their masks by the bedside table, collecting their discarded uniforms to the hamper on the corner, separating his cloak and placing it on the back of a chair.

Sasuke moves their beds beside each other, gently rousing Neji awake, “You need to take a bath,” he tells him, the Hyuuga sleepily walking to the bathroom, while he lays down face down on the larger bed, listening to their humming.

He lays still while the two males drop to either side of him, a thought on the back of his mind nagging him if the his brother and the others are still in the room, but he’s too tired to care. He reminds himself to tell the others of his relationship, tired of being professional in front of them.

He rolls tiredly, looking up to Neji peering at him with white eyes, staring at his very soul. He huffs a quiet chuckle when he feels Shikamaru laying down beside him, an arm moving across his stomach, the rise and fall of his chest comfortable to Sasuke’s side, his arm wrapping around his shoulders.

Neji doesn’t break eye contact, blinking at him softly, the Hyuuga content on switching his gaze between him and Shikamaru. Shikamaru opens his eyes slowly, nuzzling him softly, “Neji, just fucking sleep.” he grouses, letting out a faint brown sugar and coffee scent.

Sasuke snorts, before pulling Neji down, tucking his head to brown locks, inhaling honey — the scent pleasing to the nose even if he hates sweets. 

He kisses their temples, looking at their intertwined hands over his stomach. Shikamaru leans over to kiss Neji on the lips, nudging their noses together before laying down again, muttering ‘how troublesome it was to lean over’. 

“Ah, sleep, I’m tired, you’re both heavy.” he complains, his eyes already drooping. “Ji, you heard that?” he listens as Shikamaru mockingly whispers, the two of them talking about how he’s the heaviest out of the three of them, which is untrue — he has the lightest steps, Shikamaru is the heaviest out of the three. He cuts in, “I’m not the heaviest, I just happen to be the one strongest to carry your two sorry asses across the forest.”  “You love these sorry asses though.” Neji teases, white eyes in mischief. “Damn right I do, now sleep.” he kisses their lips, before pulling the covers over them.

The silence is comfortable, the warm sunlight through the curtains lulling them further to sleep, their scents mingling, the combination fitting so perfectly, their chests breathing in the same rhythm.

“Baby Uchiha!” Obito greets quietly, making Sasuke scowl at him in irritation, not appreciating woken up from his sleep. He glares, feeling his drowsiness slip away from him, making him grumble.  “We still need to do the report.” Obito reminds him, still standing in his uniform. Sasuke stares at him, glancing from his mates to Obito, and back again. “Fine.” he answers blankly, separating his limbs from his lover’s, pushing the two together. Sasuke sighs at the sleep he just lost, before securing his boots, murmuring how it’s unfair he can’t rest after bringing two people on his own. 

“Sas, why’re you leaving?” he glances back at Neji’s sleepy mumble, making his features soften.

“Just report, I’ll be fast.” he reassures him, closing the door when the omega tucks his head on Shikamaru’s chest.

“So, that’s your lovers?” Obito teases, throwing an arm around his shoulder, ruffling his hair.

“No, that’s just my teammates who just likes to cuddles.” he retorts dryly, pushing Obito’s hand out of his now unruly hair.

“Maa, maa, you’re so agressive.” Obito mimics Kakashi, making him puff out a laugh. “Come on, I still need to sleep.” he tugs his cousin to run faster, the two of them on the way to the Hokage Tower.

(A very short AU prompt, soooo.....it’s a Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies....with A/B/O dynamics and Sasuke has the Rinnegan, cause I want to. I would’ve wrote this better if I wasn’t so damn busy...so excuse me for the OOC moments..)

[redlyncentral]

High school musical, the musical, the convention, the book, my reaction.

- LMFAO ASH CALLING EJ OLD

- EJ TAKES ARCHERY LESSONS??? CASWELL COUSINS NEVER SLEEP IT'S CONFIRMED.

- "Remember what miss Jenn always says?"

"trust the process?"

"Nope, 'is that the last apple?'"

- NOT EJ CALLING NINI THE LOVE OF HIS LIFE

- "I give her my most feminist-fierce look"

- Gina listens to k-pop? I love that! Bet she's a huge blackpink fan like her actress.

- I can't believe they said Gina and ash who are both confirmed sophomores are in different school years???

- Ricky should have a dog. That's an observation I made. Like a big fluffy brown one.

- ej taking his own car to Wyoming because he doesn't want to get stuck with singing theatre kids. icon

- "not only women changed the world" big red would NEVER say that.

- "aren't we all animals?" oh ricky bowen, great beast foreshadowing btw

- Carlos is such a leo.

- so many things we first saw or heard of in s2 were established here like Salt lake slices, Ricky spending the vacation at his dad's etc.

- SANDY SOUNDS LIKE A DOUCHE ALREADY. LOVE WHEN BOOKS HAVE ORIGINAL CHARACTERS.

- "it takes my mind off ashlyn" oh he IN LOVE in love!!! Good for him!!!

- "I still can't believe we [kissed]" BELIEVE IT UR GONNA DATE IN LIKE TWO WEEKS???

- "I really like ashlyn" he went from that to "[me liking Ashlyn is the] understatement of the year". GOOD FOR HIM!!!

- "girls are mysteries" DUDE!!! SHE KISSED YOU!!! SHE VERY MUCH LIKES YOU!!!

- "What if she changed her mind [about the kiss] LISTEN. I'M ABOUT TO FIND A WAY TO ENTER THIS FICTIONAL BOOK AND TELL U ABOUT HOW S2 IS GONNA GO.

- BIG RED TRYING TO TEXT ASH. HE HAS MY WHOLE HEART.

- SIX ATTEMPTS? BABY JUST BE YOURSELF SHE LOVES U ALREADY

- NOT BIG RED NOT GOING TO THE CONVENTION!!! MRS REDONOVICH I CAN FILL IN FOR HIM!!!

- Miss Jenn had her driver's license since 2000 and she's 35 in 2020. I'll calculate that later.

- "Kourtney and I have a lunch date" POTTS FAMILY RIGHTS!!!

- "big red said-" yup kourtney and big red pizzaria besties so true.

- I'm genuinely excited seeing some friendships again okay

- sebbie ilysm. pls be my friend.

- EJ TAKES ARCHERY CLASSES, WAS A BOY SCOUT AND IS SENIOR CLASS TREASURER??? WHAT DOESN'T HE DO??? (SLEEP.)

- ok nini and ej are on good terms now. It was never really talked about in the show after they broke up

- TWO OF MY FAVORITE CHARACTERS NOT GOING. *enter the 'not this' video"

- Ok so everyone know that ej bought Gina the plane ticket or just Nini? How does she know, exactly?

- Ashlyn got new crystals after giving hers away to Miss Jenn. It's good to know though it's not crucial.

- the way they don't work yet because they're not charged w energy. pls

- "I'm beginning to think they're just pretty rocks" maybe u bought fake ones???

- the way ashlyns like "oh it's snowing? maybe we should huddle for warmth" like twice in the series. She's such a hugger 💞

- weird text from big red, huh. Maybe you should text him again 👀

- ASH HE'S IN LOVE W U AND SCARED TO RUIN THINGS

- "this is life, not a rehearsal" CARLOS WOULD N E V E R SAY THAT.

- Miss Jenn being petty and not sharing her room is kind of a mood.

- seblos facetime 💗

- frozen reference? Interesting.

- Ricky writing a song named "confusion"... 👀

- RICARLOS FRIENDSHIP.

- ASHLYN TALKING ABOUT BIG RED YES.

- I get that big red was worried but he should've texted ash back.

- Gina. Tell ash to send that text. I'M BEGGING YOU.

- "you're telling him by texting that you're crazy about him". she's in love with him. Let her.

- OK SHE SAID THEY KISSED. Gina is 100% aware okay

- not CHASE. Gina. Have you MET big red???

- ofc ash suggests snow angels 😭 I love her

- kourt ily pls stop doubting urself u can be multitalented and proud of it

- big red stalking ash's socials because he feels bad for not going to the convention 😭

- omg no I don't want him to feel bad ash pls text him

- NOT A GAME! THESE ARE TWO IDIOTS IN LOVE. GINA.

- SHE'S TEXTING HIM!!! AHH.

- could you tell i love redlyn?

- gina pls just be urself and give ash your true thoughts

- SHE'S NOT TEXTING HIM. ASHLYN MOON CASWELL-

- Mr mazzara has been whipped for two seasons now wbk

- EJ ACCIDENTALLY GOING TO A MEDITATION CONVENTION 😭 ASH WOULD BE SO PROUD

- EJ IS FINALLY HERE IN PERSON.

- chapter twenty four. There's only five ash and big red chapters until chapter FORTY NINTH. help.

- Carlos missing Seb is adorable

- they're really into frozen I see

- everyone's treating EJ like he's so old 😭

- "almost all of [the theater kids] seem to be having some kind of personal crisis, emotional turmoil or explosion of self-doubt"... Yeah, are you new?

- NOT BIG RED BEING ABLE TO GO TO THE CONVENTION TOO LATE. EXCUSE ME MRS REDONOVICH.

- BIG RED YOU DUMBASS YOU HAVE A CAR.

- NOT BIG RED USING EMOJIS-

- "Hasn't he got a million cousins?" KNEW IT. I FUCKING CALLED IT IN MY PASSOVER FIC. I'M SO HAPPY

- Ashlyn also has a big family? Oh, their wedding is gonna be MASSIVE

- EJ PICKING UP HIS FUTURE COUSIN IN LAW 😭😭😭 platonic redj has my heart.

- "I guess hey is word of the week" ash is such a caswell 😭

- not ash being cold about him coming there like she's happy but duddukfd

- I get why she's annoyed but. UGH. Not redlyn angst. My heart can't handle this.

- kourt you are very much an advanced singer pls

- ash and gina taking a bad workshop is so funny pls

- kourt 😭

- NOT RICKY IN THE BET ON IT WORKSHOP.

- diane... Interesting.

- awe kourtney getting the validation she deserves!!! Good for her!!!

- "wildcat it up".

- NOT AVOID ASHLYN. BIG RED.

- okay he can't ignore her. Good.

- Ashlyn why are you acting brand new Ricky told u this 😭

- why is gina ignoring big red.

- big red not knowing what epiphany means 😭

- not big red regretting this already. Hi dummies pls communicate it hurts to read

- thank god they learned from this for 2x08

- Ricky pls ask big red about Ashlyn.

- awe Lucas and Nini met!!!

- I wanna hug Carlos, like, poor thing. He didn't get to participate in the workshops or spend time with his boyfriend.

- "I can't even pretend to understand [what's going on with big red and Ashlyn]" Ricky. Ur a bad friend. Sorry not sorry.

- caswen... 👀

- Ricky being Gabriella. So true

- "we're drama kids. Our imaginations are out of control"

- STAY FOR THE SING-A-LONG. HAVE FUN U DUMMIES.

- THEY WROTE A SONG FOR KOURT!!! 🥺 WHAT SHE DESERVES

- MY KIDS ARE FINALLY COMMUNICATING!!! FINALLY. UGH.

- they love each other I'm really glad this was resolved

- Natalie getting offended by being accused of being her emotional support rodents to the convention as she should be. I have ones too. It's no joking matter.

- SEB!!!

- ahh seblos reunited!!!

- ej having unexpected friendship w Seb and red. My rights tbh

- Carlos and EJ hug??? I need it now

- okay finished it!!! It was. A cute read.

[rukanrin]

Angel---Nero x G/N Reader

Angel - Theory Of A Deadman So after breaking my friends heart she requested another song-fanfic,so here is our  deadweight Nero,once again thank you for the support but why does my progress chart show me the middle finger,y’all tryna tell me something? -Ruka ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- I’m in love with an angel, heaven forbid Made me a believer with the touch of her skin.... Nero had confessed his love to you a few months ago,but you didn’t know what to say,it have made things terribly awkward for both of you,rarely talking anymore,you knew he dumped Kyrie to confess to you,those two were like puzzle pieces,so why did he leave her for you? I’d go to hell and back with you Stay lost in what we found... Today was another day of demon hunting,but something was off,Dante had informed you that you had a job that would take a couple of days,that you were paired up with Nero,and to get your stuff packed,you had nothing against it since it was a job...but still...why were you getting paired with Nero so much? Worlds apart we were the same Until we hit the ground You packed your stuff none the less,the mission was somewhere in a snowy mountain terrain,the caller wanted you to exterminate the demons lurking on the scouting fields,giving you a nice warm house-cabin to stay in for the period of time,you were impressed by how warm it was inside compared to the snowy hell outside,you unpacked your stuff,just some clothes,weapons,a torch with new batteries and a notepad with a sharpened pencil and rubber Maybe I’m crazy, maybe I’m weak Maybe I’m blinded by what I see Nero had begged Dante to pair you two up for this mission,originally it was ment to be for Vergil and Lady,but the younger son of Sparda let Nero off this time since he wasn’t in the mood for a ‘new gig’,he needed to know if you accepted his love,he was tired of avoiding each other You wanted a soldier but it wasn't me 'Cause I could never set you free Night came around and you were laying on the couch, Nero had gone to search through the supplies in the hut and to explore the place,it appeared small but was a literal maze “Hey (Y/N)...have you thou-” “i told you Nero,i’m not sure yet” you cut the blue and red clothed man off,not wanting to talk about your feelings toward him,you couldn’t really tell but his blood was boiling at this point So fly on your own It’s time I let you go You got up and walked towards the bedrooms,luckily this place was built for three people,so neither of you had to sleep on the couch while the other gets a good sleep,but you felt a strong grip on your hand,only to be pinned to the wall behind you,revealing a very upset Nero in front of you I’m in love with an angel who’s afraid of the light Her halo is broken but there's fight in her eyes “Why wont you just fucking give me an answer?! “ He hissed,hate laced his words “i tol-” “you told me shit,i want a real answer,and i want it now (L/N)” He cut you off before you could finish your regular excuse “its because im dead weight?“ “Nero“ “am i not pretty enough for you?!“ “Nero!“ “what do you want me to be?!“ “NERO!“  Walls are built to keep us safe Until they’re crashing down Your pleading finally got to him,snapping him out of the world of self hatred, you loved him,you truly did, you just didn’t have the courage to confess, even if he was the one to confess and ask first “please...don’t say that about yourself” you begged,you hated when he was like this,sure he never ever pinned you to a wall but he hated himself more then anyone could ever imagine Worlds apart we were the same Until you hit the ground He couldn’t help himself,his emotions came over the poor boy as he let you go,only to pull you close and share a needy first kiss with you,you were stunned,but seeming as you had no choice but to stay trapped in the quater-devil’s embrace,you melted into his touch,even going as far as kissing him back for a few seconds “did that answer your question?Nero Sparda?” Maybe I’m crazy, maybe I’m weak Maybe I’m blinded by what I see  He smiled,several tears rolling down his face,which you carefully wiped and replaced with a pepper of kisses,making the devil hunter chuckle,i guess all of that anger wasn’t really worth it? but atleast both sides cave confessed now,and tommorow will be a day full of sweet sweet demon hunting

[baektempo]

Tiny Victories [2/6]

Pairing: Byun Baekhyun x Reader 

Summary: The Adventures of Baekhyun, his failing Divination classes, and his broomstick named Peanut.  

Warnings: Language 

Author’s Note: Please tell me what you think of it so far, I would love to talk to you about it :)

Saturday morning. After two hours of Quidditch practice, Baekhyun is soaked in sweat. He has a fuzzy head and nausea is clenching his insides. Chanyeol did not joke about preparing for their next match with Ravenclaw.

He groans as he flops onto his bed, towel drying his hair. He remembers the roasted chicken. Your lips—your pretty, pretty lips. The kitchens. And—fuck, the donuts. The jam donuts he was supposed to be eating with you at midnight.

He’s ready to throw himself into the Black Lake and get eaten by the Giant Squid or something.

He sits there for a few minutes. Would you still talk to him after he ditched you to sleep? And his class—Professor Sinistra is gonna hang his ass from the Astronomy tower.

A while later, Jongdae comes into their room and gives Baekhyun a funny look. “Did you not see those?”

He points at a paper bag resting on his nightstand, with a note attached to it. Baekhyun sets the towel down and picks up the paper bag.

I figured you’d stood me up when you didn’t come to eat these sugary beautiful donuts. Don’t worry, I saved you two. And don’t forget, you’re gonna buy me all the Cherry Syrup I want from Madam Puddifoot’s. ☺

Your writing is neat and scribbly. He’s unsure of the huge smiley face that you’ve drawn, it seems like a warning. Next time you ditch me, I’ll hex you—something like that.

But still, there’s a grin on his face he re-reads it again. He looks up to see Jongdae with that funny look still on his face. “What?”

“She asked you to meet at the Hogsmeade Station,” Jongdae looks at his wristwatch, “at 10 am.”

“Oh,” Baekhyun says and chews his cheek. “It’s 9:45 am.”

Jongdae shrugs, plopping onto his bed. His cat, Blossom, climbs onto the bed, purring at Jongdae and gives Baekhyun a dirty look. That cat hates him.

He wastes no time as he huffs down the stairs, running through the corridors. He even considers flying to the station with his broomstick. But none of that can do.

He sees you talking to some third years by the time he makes it to the station. Although he’s bundled up in his warmest clothes, he feels almost as a cold sweat breaks out. He just doesn’t want to disappoint you—again.

“Glad to know you could make it on time, Baekhyun,” you tease, a smile gracing your lips.

Baekhyun is caught off guard as he puffs out laughs into the air, still trying to catch his breath. “I’m, I’m so sorry—I fell asleep after practice. I also missed class,”

You didn’t ask for an explanation nor do you look mad, but your lips still quirk up with appreciation as you nod. “Jongdae was complaining about how you and Chanyeol wouldn’t wake up. Let’s get going then, shall we?”

The carriage ride to High Street isn’t anything notable, just a few pubescent boys trying to impress you as Baekhyun tried his best to keep a scowl off of his face. He should be getting all the attention.

However, ten minutes later, his hands are freezing as he’s gathering all the snow he can possibly collect to form the largest snowball he can make.

He aims directly for your face and shoots, and as the best Chaser in the team—he scores.

The snowball catches you off guard, as you yelp and fall on your butt. Baekhyun is chortling, hand on his knee, one hand on his stomach because there’s a cramp from laughing too hard.

You laugh too.

“That was so unfair!” you say, aiming a poorly built snowball at him. It lands three feet away from him.

“Alright,” he chuckles, “Now that we’ve decided on who’s the best snowballer, lets go drink something warm.”

“Hey, I could’ve cast a charm to win but I didn’t,” You sass. “But now I’m freezing, and I forgot to bring my gloves.”

There’s a million spells Baekhyun knows that can warm you up, but at this moment he doesn't need the feel to pick out his wand and cast a charm.  Instead, he takes out his favorite gloves. The color is fading and there are strings hanging loose, but they’re still his favorite. He hands you his gloves.

“But won’t you be cold?” Steam blows as you speak ruefully. Baekhyun starts to see flecks of snow gently falling atop your head.

“I don’t mind the cold.” Liar. He despised the cold.

Maybe you know that he’s lying out of his mouth. But you still put on his gloves, and they’re a little big for you but there’s a huge grin on your face and it makes Baekhyun feels a bit warm on the inside.

By the time the both of you make it to Madam Puddifoot’s, he knows more about you: the socks that scream once Jongdae has worn them too much was a gift you gave to him last year. You would like to become a Curator, but you don't tell anyone about it because they might think that you’re a bit boring. You also hate going to the Forbidden Forest because spiders scare you a lot.

He also traded some secrets: he wants to compete in the Quidditch World Cup one day. He once cast a memory charm to make sure Filch didn’t remember him sneaking out with his friends to drink Firewhisky. He also is terrified of owls.

Madam Puddifoot’s is a dainty little tea shop. He feels out of place as he sits somewhat cramped on the chair.

“I know, the place is super… tacky. But I promise the drinks are really good,” you say hopefully.

“It’s okay, I’ve just never been here before.” He takes a peek at the other customers in the tea shop. They were all cuddled up against each other and… are they—are they making out?

Baekhyun coughs and clears his throat, hoping his ears aren’t red with embarrassment as he focuses his attention on you again. You are fidgeting with the lacy napkins on the tabletop, acting like you didn’t see him witness the snogging couples.

“I guess this place is more popular with couples.” He comments.

“I guess so.” You admit, a shy smile on your face.

“Miss ___, you sneaky girl. I did not know that you had a boyfriend!” Madam Puddifoot greets the both of you.

“He—he’s not my boyfriend!” Your eyes widen, cheeks flooding with warmth. Baekhyun is having way too much fun to see you flail over the accusation.

“Yet,” the older witch winks, taking both of your orders. Baekhyun picks a black coffee and you go with a warm tea.

“God, I’m so sorry. I think we’re better off at The Three Broomsticks.” you snort. He gazes for a moment at the soft expression in your eyes, and nods.

“If you want to.”

“We could meet up tomorrow… if you’re free?” you suggest.

Baekhyun pauses. He picks up the freshly brewed coffee, thinking of how to reject you in the nicest way. “I’m, uh, not gonna be free tomorrow.”

“Oh. Well. There’s always a next time,” There’s no anger or disappointment in your voice. Which is why he has been looking forward to spending more time with you. “There’s an essay I have to complete by Monday, so I’ll just stay back at Hogwarts.”

Baekhyun feels bad. “I, uh, I feel like I’m bringing the team down. So I want to practice more.” He admits.

There's a flash of emotions on your face, but a warm smile wins. He nearly faints as your hand covers his on the table. “I can’t imagine how bad you must be feeling over losing, but I promise you that I always admired your skills.”

His lips part in surprise. “You’ve seen me play?”

“Well, I am in the same house, you… goober. Gotta be supportive and all that.” You say lightly, and draw your hand away from his. He nearly protests at the loss of contact.

“Will you come to cheer me on for the next match this week?” he asks coolly and pauses, “Only if you’re free.”

Your eyes are glinting with a warmth and he feels cozy by it. “I would love to.”

—

Baekhyun breathes out a massive sigh and blinks his eyes. He can hear the snowstorm outside, and shivers in the dark of his dorm room.

He yanks off his blankets as Jongdae’s cat meows at him. He gives the cat a good glare. What business is the dumb cat upto this late, anyway?

He sucks in a breath, swings his feet onto the hardwood floor and walks downstairs. He blinks at the fireplace, and finds his way onto his favorite armchair when he spots you—laying on the carpet, scribbling away furiously with your quill.

He whispers out your name, and you nearly leap into the fireplace. “Merlin’s beard!” you gasp, “You scared me,”

He snickers and slides down onto the warm, thick rug—right next to you. “Why are you up so late?”

“I could ask you the same thing,” your voice is only a hush in the dim lit common room. The wind scratches against the windows, and Baekhyun sees the snow swirling furiously in the air.

“I couldn’t sleep.” He admits.

You set down the quill, and curl up next to him. An embrace of seeping warmth from your body makes him sigh.

“You’re nervous,” you state. Your eyes are closed. Baekhyun hums, he doesn’t really want to agree with that. Especially to you. He doesn't want to seem… weak.

“Hey, its okay, you know,” your voice is a soothing balm. “I used to think that purebloods were better than me. But honestly, it never mattered. Because at the end of the day, I became a prefect only ‘cause I worked my ass off for it.”

You chuckle. Baekhyun’s throat feels tight.

“What I’m trying to say is that… you work really, really hard. And although you don't think so, I think that you’re the best Chaser in all of Hogwarts. I know that you’ll do your best tomorrow, Baekhyun.”

Baekhyun is quiet for a moment—he is wondering if you’re heaven-sent. He then shifts his body towards you. His lips lift into a loopy smile.

“I really hope we win. I heard that there’s gonna be a scout for the National Quidditch Team tomorrow,” he sighs.

“They better pick you, I’ll make sure they do,” you say. “If not, I’ll protest outside the Ministry or something.”

Baekhyun laughs—it echoes in the open space of the common room. He yawns again, and closes his eyes.

“I know we just became friends but, thank you. For always believing in me.”

—

Baekhyun’s face is bright red when he enters the Gryffindor common room with his teammates. A cacophony of voices and laughter fill the overcrowded room. Students wearing blue, yellow and green pop out from the dozens of reds.

He feels a bit overwhelmed with everyone’s eyes on him. He tries to hide away in a corner, but Jongdae’s shrill voice thunder across the room.

“Coooongradulaaations!”

“Good lord,” Baekhyun mumbles, and his eyes catches a huge three tiered chocolate cake. It is smothered in chocolate frosting, and there’s a huge CONGRATULATIONS! written on with red frosting. He licks his lips in anticipation.

The chocolate cake is placed on a small table and Baekhyun wonders how it’s holding up as he shuffles closer to Chanyeol. His teammates blows the candles—and he’s worried for a second that Professor Dumbledore is gonna get annoyed for such a huge ruckus being caused at the common room.

Baekhyun can't help but snicker as he sees Sehun, a close friend from Slytherin getting tangled in a streamer.

Jongin shoves a plate with a massive slice of chocolate cake towards Baekhyun. He digs into it with a fork, and takes a bite. He swallows, and almost cries from how amazing it tastes.

“Isn’t it good? Me, Jongdae, Minseok and ____ went to the Kitchens last night to help the elves bake the cake,” Jongin says. He has been a friend of Baekhyun ever since they were in the same train compartment on his first year at Hogwarts.

Baekhyun speaks with his mouth full. “It’s really good.” Jongin cringes at him.

He finds Jongdae tucked away in a corner, laughing as he speaks with Minseok. He hears Minseok complaining about an owl biting his finger. He shudders at the thought.

“Hey, Baekhyun! I almost fell out of the tower from screaming out your name so loud,” Minseok jokes and slaps his back. “You were truly the star of the match.”

“Thanks, hyung.”

There’s a proud smile on Jongdae’s face.  Minseok tells them he’s going to the Ravenclaw common room to grieve over their loss.

“When did you have the time to bake a cake?” Baekhyun blurts as soon as Minseok leaves. “You were dead asleep last night!”

“You were asleep next to ____ when I woke up to my alarm,” Jongdae says impishly as he grins back at Baekhyun and wiggles his eyebrows.

Baekhyun clears his throat.

“This is so good,” he says loudly to Jongdae over the scuffle, shoving another forkful of chocolate cake into his mouth. Jongdae does not tease him about it afterwards.

The cake is nearly gone by the time everyone gravitates to other places. Baekhyun waves to Sehun and Kyungsoo as they leave. Chanyeol is arm-wrestling with Yixing. Their voices hit the ceiling. Junmyeon couldn’t make it to the party, considering that he was the Head Boy—and had to soothe his Housemates over their loss.

That was okay, he can meet up with the boys next Saturday.

Baekhyun watches you play rock, paper, scissors with a 4th year, and grins as you snatch the plate of cake away after winning. You’re smiling as you catch his eyes, heading to sit on the same couch as him.

“You did so great,” you say lightly.

“Thanks,” Baekhyun replies, smiling a little. “You didn’t have to do this.”

He gestures at the floating balloons, pieces of paper scattered from the party poppers and what is left of the cake.

“Okay? But we did it anyway,” you shrug.

He scowls, and nudges you with his elbow. There’s a gleeful laugh, and you set the empty plate on a table top and collapse next to him.

Baekhyun shifts closer to you as you find the perfect spot to rest—using his chest to rest your head on.

His insides feel funny—and it's not from the cake.

“So, did you sneak into the kitchens without me?” Baekhyun says, pretending to be hurt.

“What makes you think I’d make you decorate a cake that’s meant for you?” you quip lazily.

“Fine. I liked it. And I like you a lot better now,” Baekhyun mumbles.

“Well, I like you enough to make a cake.” you clarify. “I’m so proud of you, Baek.”

“I haven’t felt this happy for the longest time. Maybe I was in a slump,” Baekhyun breathes in your familiar, warm scent.

“I’m glad you feel better now,” you squeeze his hand. Baekhyun feels his heart almost lurch out of his chest.

Baekhyun pulls you in closer with a fond smile.

“Wonder what’s for dinner tonight.”

[blehbleehhhh]

Baby Jaeger 💕

Life sucks for me so I needed tooth rotting fluff. I was actually writing a different piece and this just like came out instead so, here you go. Loosely inspired because my conditions are genetic and I refuse to put an innocent baby through them .-. Anyway, I hope it isn't lame, the fluff in this it gave me cavities. (Also, please don't think I'm looking for sympathy, I'm truly not. But I really really do appreciate it you're all very kind. ❤️)

"Fuckthishurtsfuckthishurtsfuckthishurts!" Mikasa cried, squeezing her husband's hand hard enough that his knuckle finally cracked, tears streaming down her cheeks that are flushed a light pink because she's understandably exhausted from sixteen hours of labor and pushing out a baby for the last thirty minutes. "FUCK! I hate you for doing this to me!" But she knows that all of the pain will be worth it when the little one is out. Definitely. "EREN JAEGER!" Their last name was drawn out as she gave a hard push and whimpered when her body collapsed once more to gather its strength. At the other end of the hospital bed are her doctor and a few nurses, all wrapped up in scrubs like the man who is whispering sweet nothings in her ear and carefully pushing raven colored hair off of her sweaty forehead. He such a good man..

"Okay, I see the head!"

"I know you hate me," Eren whispered in her ear as her head fell back, looking up into eyes that honestly calmed her for a moment. "But you're doing so great, Mikasa, and I love you so much," He kissed the tears off her cheeks and squeezed her hand as he planted a kiss on the top, and she licked her dry lips, her chin quivering because she's never been in this much pain before and it's miserable. "We're so close to meeting him now and that's all because of you, because you're tougher than anyone I've ever met."

"Big push, Mikasa!"

"OhgodIdon'twannaErenIdon'twantto!" She rushed to say as she bursted into tears, tears that were immediately wiped away with a loving touch from his thumb.

"Take it out on my hand. I don't care if you break it. Just like we practiced, right?" Eren offered her a tiny smile as he kissed her on the lips, and she gave him a nod, watching his eyes while he talked her through the breathing exercises. "One, two, three, one two three, push, Miki!" Her eyes snapped shut and she cried out in agony as she squeezed his hand, pushing much harder than she had been until she ran out of breath and collapsed again in exhaustion.

"AAHHHH!" Her tearful scream filled the delivery room as she pushed, and that's when they were blessed with the cries of their new infant son.

"That's it, Mrs. Jaeger! I know you're tired, but I need two more really hard pushes, okay?"

"FUUUCK!" Mikasa wailed at the top of her lungs as she dug her nails in the side of the hospital bed, hunching forward until she felt  her lungs tightening because she ran out of breath, taking only a short breathing break before giving it all she had left. She allowed herself to collapse one last time as a familiar comforting hand gently cradled her cheek; and she could barely keep her eyes open as she turned to meet his, just the slightest bit of pink from shedding many of his own tears. The young man leaned in with a huge grin and kissed her softly on the lips that still tremble from being in tears and pain for hours on end.

"You did so good, baby girl.."

"Time of birth: 6:45 pm! Welcome to the world, Baby Jaeger!" The doctor exclaimed excitedly from where he sat on a rolling stool with the nurses tending to the baby boy. Eren glanced up with a smile and watched briefly while they cut the umbilical cord, one of the nurses taking him in a fresh towel so she can clean the blood from his tiny body. The infant continued to cry, screaming in retaliation because he's exposed to the cold outside his mother's uterus, such a healthy cry indeed. Oh, how tired Mikasa looked when their eyes met once more, but the sleepy smile she also wears made him chuckle as he carefully pushed her hair back out of her face.

"Baby," Eren smiled as he leaned in until their lips met and they were exchanging the softest, sweetest kisses. "You did great, and I'm so fucking proud of you." Her eyes fluttered open and he knew from past experiences how sleepy her voice would sound when she parted those pretty lips to speak, and it was adorable.

"I-I don't hate you, I don't, I'm -"

"Shh," He chuckled and was relieved when she gave her beautiful smile in response. "I know you don't it's okay."

"B-but I was so -"

"Hey, you've been in excruciating pain for over seventeen hours now," Eren frowned as he continued to slowly push his fingers through her hair and immediately grinned when her lips curved into a small, sleepy smile. "And you say I'm a hero?" He glanced up as one of the nurses approached smiling while she cradles a bundle wrapped up in her arms with a white, cotton blanket. Tiny hands reached up at the air in tandem with the tiny sounds that made their souls simply melt.

"Congratulations! He's the definition of perfection! Eight pounds, seventeen ounces."

"M-My baby?" Mikasa's voice was almost hoarse, turning her head slowly and following her husband's eyes as she looked to the nurse. She couldn't help but tear up as he was carefully placed in her arms, because now she thinks she understands what her mother meant when meeting your baby for the first time is more than just an emotional experience. Eren crouched down beside her in awe as a tear ran down his cheek. "I'm already obsessed with him. He looks just like his Daddy.." She chuckled, tears pouring out of her eyes as she carefully strokes the baby's tiny cheek with her thumb.

"Yeah, but he has his Mommy's eyes. They're mostly blue now, but you can definitely see the gray."

"He's amazing..." She cried happily, chuckling the littlest bit as Eren reached for one of his son's tiny hands, just barely big enough to give his finger a squeeze. "Wow," The young woman smiled as the little hand squeezed hard enough to make his own skin really light and the tip of his father's finger. "He's pretty strong for a little guy."

"I never thought eight pounds could knock me out."

"He's just so little. I can't believe he'll be tall like the rest of us someday.."

"Thank you."

"For what?"

"For being by my side, for being who you are, for everything," Eren smiled when the tiny hand squeezed his pointer finger as hard as it possibly could and lightly rubbed his thumb over the top, glancing aside at the nurse patiently waiting nearby smiling because watching parents interact with their babies is her favorite part of her job. "Especially for this little guy."

"I'm sorry, but we need to take him for tests. "

"W-why? Why are you taking him? Is my baby okay?!" It was like someone had flipped a switch, and suddenly the new young mother burst into uncontrollable tears. But the nurse didn't seem surprised, only placing her supportive hand on her arm with a remorseful frown.

"I'm so sorry, I should have worded that better. Your baby is perfect. It's just protocol."

"Yes," The doctor chimed in with a reassuring smile as he finished cleaning off his hands, chucking a wet paper towel into the nearby trash can. "I don't expect to find anything abnormal, Mikasa. Your pregnancy was a breeze, and I never saw anything wrong with your baby during those nine months." He glanced up the new father carefully wiping tears from under his wife's eyes while he has a light hand resting on their baby's head.

"I'm so embarrassed, I'm sorry, I'm usually good at keeping my emotions in check.."

"It's very, very common, Mrs. Jaeger, please don't be embarrassed. Would you like another minute with your son?"

"No," Mikasa shook her head as she swallowed back tears and placed a soft kiss on the baby's forehead while he sleeps peacefully in her arms. "Here, just hurry before I change my mind..." She lay back on the bed, covering her face with her hands as she started to cry and immediately prompted her husband to wrap his arm around her while she turned onto her side, squeezing both eyes shut in the hopes of avoiding the sight of their newborn child being wheeled away. The doctor reached for a box of tissues sitting on the counter and handed it to the very grateful man sitting beside her, who gave him a nod as he quickly tore out a tissue to dab at Mikasa's eyes.

"I'll have someone come get you two and take you to your room so she can get some rest."

"I think that's a great idea. Thank you so much," Eren didn't glance up as he gently pushed her damp hair away from her still beautifully flushed face, and the doctor stepped out of the room to grab a nurse. "I'm not going to leave, okay?" But when he moved out of the way for the nurse to step in and push the bed away from the wall, his exhausted, anxious wife came completely unglued and panicked, crying as she tries to speak while she reaches for his hands.

"Nonono! Where are you going?!"

"I'm right here, Miki. I just had to move so the nurse can help us into a room, okay?"

"B-but -" She whimpered, already coughing from crying so hard. And it broke his heart. "But the b-baby!"

"Heyheyhey," Her husband whispered as he crouched down beside her head once more and gently cradled her cheek in his hand. "Someone will return him to us when they're finished running their tests." His wife is hysterical, allowing him to gently wipe away her tears with his thumb wrapped in a tissue.

"A-and you're -"

"I'm not leaving your side, baby girl, Scouts Honor." Eren was relieved when she took in a self soothing deep breath and pressed her lips together as she finally allowed her heavy eyelids to flutter shut, sniffling and whimpering softly while she recovers from her panic attack. He stood tall and lightly rubbed the top of her hand with his thumb, surprised to see the nurse smiling at their exchange, making him shrug his shoulders. "Mikasa and I have known each other since we were little. I'm one of the few people who can calm her like that." The nurse carefully adjusted the bed to make it easier to move and pressed a handicap button on the wall that forced the double doors open, while a young man made sure that he held onto his wife's hand because he knows that she often uses just his touch alone to soothe herself. For a while they walked in silence to hopefully let Mikasa fall asleep, her husband walking with her happily as they were led into a quiet, dark room that had been prepared for her ahead of time because of her horrible migraine. Perks of being married to one of the hospital's best doctors.

"Well, I'm glad you were able to get her to rest. Please, let us know if she has another panic attack, there are a few anxiety medications I can give her through the IV," The nurse carefully brought the bed back against the wall and made it stationary by locking it's wheels in place. "Since she has delivered, Mikasa is certainly welcome to have more pain killers. We were just concerned that narcotics would mess with the baby's heart rate." She brought a chair closer to the bed for him so he didn't have to let go of her hand, and Eren gave a sigh of relief to be sitting down at last, thanking her with a smile and a nod.

"Thank you, I really appreciate that."

"Of course," The woman smiled, talking at a whisper as she exits the room. "Just press the call bell if you guys need anything." Eren just nodded and pulled the scrub cap off his head with a quiet sigh as she carefully closed the door, looking down at his wife fast asleep on her side and still squeezing his hand with hers. He knows all too well how traumatic labor is on the body from his profession, so he wasn't at all surprised when Mikasa had such a big panic attack since she has had horrible anxiety for as long as he can remember, and giving birth causes a dramatic shift in hormones that's nearly impossible to control. Thankfully, it seems that she's so exhausted, that there won't even be an immediate need to give her something for anxiety quite yet. The young parents have been going back and forth about names since they found out the baby's gender, and it's supposed to be his decision since she picked two names that she really liked and that they both agreed would work with their last name. He sat in silence and gazed lovingly at his wife sleeping peacefully after giving birth to their first child, contemplating the two names he has to choose from over and over again before he eventually decided that to wait until their newborn son is returned.

It was then that the door opened to reveal the same nurse from labor and delivery pushing a crib into the room, carefully closing the door behind her because the new mother is still resting and so is their baby. Eren's heart fluttered with excitement as the sleeping infant was parked beside Mikasa's bed sprawled out in the tiny cot, his chest rising and falling perfectly. This is admittedly a site that he's always wanted to see, though he definitely hates that she was in such agony; having a baby with the woman of his dreams and raising him or her in a home that's nothing but loving. Mikasa stirred in her sleep and he couldn't help but smile when she squeezed his hand, the same one she hasn't let go of since their son was born just hours ago, her eyes fluttered open slowly as the nurse was locking the crib's wheels in place.

"Eren?"

"I'm right here, Miki."

"Good," She offered a sleepy smile and suddenly sat up with a start, making him fly out of his chair to prevent her from sitting up too far. "Where's our baby? Is he okay?!" He would move mountains just to see this woman happy and right now he can already hear the panic in her voice, reaching a freehand up to wipe away her tears.

"He's fine, baby," Eren offered a reassuring smile and carefully pushed her hair away from her eyes, gesturing with his head to look aside. She immediately cried tears of joy. "Just look at him over there, sleeping like it's his job."

"And all of his tests were fine," The nurse interjected. "We gave him all of his necessary boosters as well."

"When did you bring him back?"

"Not too long ago, Ma'am," The nurse smiled as she wrote down Mikasa's vital signs. "Don't worry, you didn't miss anything. Everything looks great. Did you want some ice chips? How do you feel?"

"No, thank you, I'm just tired.”

"Well, give your call bell a push if you need anything, okay? I'm literally right down the hall from your room."

"That makes me feel a little better, actually.."

"Good, I'm glad I can make you feel more comfortable. Oh! I’ll put in an order for some IV pain killers while I’m at my desk. Give his Attending thirty minutes to approve and I’ll bring it back. " The nurse smiled as she turned to walk away and peaked into the crib one last time before she left the room, closing the door quietly behind her. Mikasa let out a tearful sigh as she watched the baby sleep peacefully beside them.

"I-I'm ashamed to say that I don't believe her. What if something is terribly wrong with our baby boy, Eren?!"

"I'm sure he's fine. You know how I know that?"

"How?"

"Because they never came to get me and they never found anything during delivery."

"And he would be in isolation, right?"

"Correct."

"Okay, I trust you.." She finally allowed him to gently lay her back and smiled tearfully as he leaned down to plant a kiss on her lips. "Did you decide on a name?"

"Jackson?”

"Nah, I think I like Brayden.." She smiled when he just laughed, rolling his eyes in response. "What?"

"My options were Jackson and Matthew, not Brayden."

"I know, I know, but Brayden Jaeger just rolls off the tongue."

"Matthew Brayden Jaeger?"

"Oh!" Mikasa grinned as her eyes started to water once more. "I love that. Matthew Brayden.." And the baby took in a deep breath while he stretched his little arms and legs, making tiny sounds that immediately caught their attention. Matthew lays in his crib, staring up at ceiling briefly as his little eyes fluttered shut once more, letting out a soft sigh before falling asleep. "I think that was the cutest sigh I've ever heard. Can you hand him to me? I promise I won't have a melt down when you walk away." Eren chuckled to himself as he moved to the other side of the bed, beyond excited that he finally gets to hold his son. Carefully, he slipped his hands beneath the baby's head and underneath his little knees to cradle the infant in his arms. "Wow, I don't think I've ever seen your eyes twinkle before." She grinned when he looked up to meet her gaze, he was mesmerized, hooked. "Ooh, you're just as hooked as I am, aren't you?" He wandered over slowly with a wide grin as he gazed down at his baby boy, who was now barely awake and watching his eyes.

"I still can't believe that you pushed out an eight pound human being. You're my hero, Miki."

"You know, you look really hot holding a baby. One of the reasons why I love you so much is because you're so good with children.." She watched with a smile as he came over with the baby in his arms and a huge grin on his face, then carefully placed the baby in her arms and sat down on the bed. Mikasa bit her lip, now quivering because tears are working their way down her cheeks as she studied her son's eyes, blue with an already faint hint of gray around the pupils. "I can't wait until he starts smiling. I wonder if he has your dimples." She turned her head to meet his eyes, so green and full of life, returning his mutual grin as he leaned in to kiss her on the lips.

"We're in a lot of trouble if he does smile like I do."

"He'll be a gentleman like his Daddy, too, and he won't be a heartbreaker."

"Yeah," Eren sarcastically replied and smiled when he was finally rewarded with her giggle. "I was such a heartbreaker when we were still in school." She looked to him once more with a grin, carefully holding her son's tiny hand as it squeezes her finger.

"You didn't have time to be a heartbreaker anyway since you were finally mine by freshman year."

"I knew I was going to marry you the day we started going out."

"Really? You've never told me that.."

"I kind of just assumed you knew. You seem to know everything that I don't, so."

"Eren, I had been dreaming for years of marrying you at that point. The only difference when I think about it is that we actually got married. Ugh, God, you’re like a million times sexier in a tux..." She blushed lightly at his amused smirk and giggled as she leaned her head on his shoulder. "Don't start with how cute it is when I'm tired."

"Oh fine, but only because you just had our baby boy and you look really cute holding him." He smiled as she lifted her head to meet his gaze with a small giggle, leaning in slowly to kiss him on the lips and gently rest her forehead against his.

“Oh, Eren, I can't wait to get him settled with us at home so we can finally start raising our little family...” And as they kissed, their newborn child stirred in his sleep, startled awake from the sudden, small moment of his mother’s arms, but those eyes that are just barely gray soon fluttered shut and he quickly fell asleep once more.

[aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaoldretired]

I would like to hear about the punny girl

hnng thank you

i present you: kanon fukuda the ultimate filmmaker. do you get the pun?

kanon is my best girl. her backstory isn’t anything too like. angsty bc i know some can be angsty but her’s isn’t supposed to be about that. she grew up as the only child in a middle-class family with two parents who were confused by her hobbies and love of film but very supportive. also they grow to feel bad they gave her the name kanon bc all the jokes but it’s ok she kinda likes it kinda hates it. she actually got into filmmaking because she had an older cousin who acted as a sibling figure, and they would make home movies together. kanon would throw herself into her movies and kept producing and producing as fast as she could. eventually, she started entering them in both national and international youth film competitions and began winning titles. it’s at this point when she was scouted and started making professional short films. she had just finished working on her first feature-length film, which early reviews were calling her magnum opus to date, and exciting work from an up-and-coming filmmaker. 

the reason why kanon chose to attend hopes peak is that her older cousin died in the tragedy. she doesn’t know they died. she just knows they went to school and never came back, and the family keeps it hush-hush. besides the promise of success, she mostly wants to find out what happened - she assumes it was a bad accent or suicide but oop! additionally, kanon chose to attend because her feature film is to release to the public soon, and she wants to be occupied during this time to take her mind off of the reception. 

while kanon’s family backstory is pretty angst-free besides the missing cousin, kanon is still suffering p bad. she is diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. but! (unlike p much every other character in the series, it seems) she treats her mental health through medication and regular therapy (until she’s trapped at school). she’s very open about her struggle with mental health and enthusiastically tries to get better. 

as a director, she specializes in dark comedy, parody, and farce. she likes irony, and can always see the twisted humor in a situation, no matter how dire. this issss about where you might start seeing her fatal flaw. 

kanon thoroughly subscribes to the idea that comedy is born from tragedy, and that the rawest types of humor come from pain. she is known for going off her medication during the production of films and making a martyr of herself, taking pride in her horrible sleeping and eating schedule for her art. basically, every film student i’ve ever met. 

she enters the killing game very upbeat. when she finds out the truth, she is very defiant, confident in their ability to escape. she is constantly cracking jokes about the situation and observational humor, and her ideas during the trial are generally very….original. she is known for monologuing and speaking in paragraphs. during trials, she creates elaborate example situations that might seem like they’re unrelated or inconsequential but morally always tie back in. queen of the non-sequitur. early game free time events/island mode would mostly be about movies and genre, with the occasional mention about working hard to be healthy again.

she’s pretty friendly with monokume, subscribing to the philosophy that if you’re kind to him, he’s more likely to do what she wants. she’s often the student who will ask monokume clarifying questions on school policy or for access to supplies. for example, i like to think she asks monokume to provide another student needed insulin. when monokume initially refuses, she goes into a tangential scenario where if this student dies, then isn’t monokume the culprit? he’d have to be executed for harming a student. and what’s this? monokume has been harmed? the person who harmed monokume must be punished. and go round and round in a helpless circle while the students figure out a way to escape. at this point, monokume provides the insulin.

 however, after watching the first punishment, she begins to be filled with a deep despair. she is already dispositioned for despair, given her incredibly unhealthy habits regarding her mental illness and success, but she tries to resist. she remains upbeat, but after the first punishment, her dialogue takes a sharp turn towards dark comedy and macabre. from this moment on, she’s also a lot more skittish and easily startled.

after the first trial on, she will always make a point for thanking the group for being a good group of friends and making the time in hopes peak as tolerable as possible, in case they end up choosing the wrong blackened and all get executed. at the third trial, she follows this speech up with, “but if i die, you are all fucking idiots, way to let me down.”

most of her dialogue is biting, and despite the horror and despair she is filled with after every murder and execution, she can still find ways to crack a twisted joke. occasionally she will have a moment of clarity where she is candid about her feelings. 

- one free time event could feature her talking about her feelings towards actions speak louder than words. her example is couples who say they’re dark and twisted like bonnie and clyde, but really they’re two losers into bdsm. if they’d just say they’re two losers into bdsm, she could respect them. she then explains how the statements of personality are more to convince themselves than anyone else. towards the end, she laughs to herself and explains how she totally screwed herself over because Kanon prides herself in her sense of humor, but if she ever says it aloud, she’s not funny.

- another free time event could be explaining her relationship with death. she’s not afraid of it, but she wants to die on her own terms. she admits to never seeing herself growing old, and that’s she’ll probably be a part of the 27 club if she keeps on the path of a celebrity. 

her condition keeps devolving as the game progresses. more dialogue can include wondering why she is still alive and trying to cover it as a twisted sick joke. she stays upbeat, but as time goes on, you can see she’s slowly getting tired and beaten down. she’s also starting to take pride in her unhealthy lack of sleep, eating, or bathing. 

it’s after the third execution does she actually show a true moment of despair. after the execution and the classmates are silently riding in the elevator back, she announces how she does not plan to live through the game. she does not see any possible reality where she will escape hopes peak. she does, however, make it clear that she will be dying on her own terms. she gives her blessing to the group that anyone can try to kill her, but be aware she won’t go down without a fight.

her free time events are filled with more raw emotion and despair with tinges of humor instead of humor with tinges of despair. 

- she elaborates on what she meant in the elevator as to die by her own hands. she does not want to kill a classmate because she knows her disposition could never handle the trial, let alone the killing part. but she also doesn’t want to die by her classmates without a fight. and she doesn’t want to commit suicide because she has too much pride while also being too much of a coward…

- she explains how this story could be a great script, really, if it weren’t all so real. this generation’s battle royale. she actually gives kudos to the design of each punishment and admits they are inspiring if she ever wanted to do a genre flip and become a psych thriller director.

- just. asking why she isn’t dead yet. why not her? why not?

i want her to be a pretty late game survivor because i think it’s impactful to show her fall into despair, which she uses to harm herself instead of others mostly. it is also after chapter three you truly get to see her martyrdom come out. she has slowly shifted from less of a friend and more towards an antagonistic role, not because she’s a threat, but because she’s literally so full of despair.

anyways. you see her talking to monokume while the rest of the group arrives. before the fourth trial, she does her normal thanking of her classmates and pulls the protag over to thank them personally for the good times and making it the best they could. the protagonist is suspicious of this behavior and wonders if she might be guilty, but the evidence points she is not. the class correctly votes for the blackened. while everyone is waiting for monokume to go forward in the punishment, they’re confused by the delay. monokume is fuming, and it’s revealed. there’s a miscount. one student purposefully chose not to vote, which is a punishable act. the student? kanon.

she always insisted she would die, and she would die on her own terms. she had created a narrative in her head where if she dies a martyr, she will always be remembered lovingly by her fans before any unfortunate career downfall. the director ahead of her time, and gone too soon. she became obsessed with this narrative around chapter three, and the third execution sealed the deal. by the time of the trial, she figured out she could die a death fit for a star while also dying on her terms if she willingly triggered a punishment. 

ive kind offfffff figured out what her last speech could be before her punishment? she explains how “comedy is derived from pain, right? and if i intend on being the greatest director of my time, i need to go through the most suffering. i was born to die a martyr, i was just hoping one of you would do the hard part. but since no one has the balls, you can all suffer with me. see you in hell shitheads” she then asks monokume if her cousin who attended here, were they killed or executed? (was it kill or be killed?) monokume thinks for a second and responds. she smiles and says, that’s all she needed to know. gives a wink to the protag and flicks everyone off as the collar yoinks her off to her death. 

punishment would probably be something with “light camera action” or “ready steady shoot” and be a LITERAL pun on the camera shoot. bc, she’s shot. alternatively, if i were to decide that instead of a generic dead body in the tragedy, she could be related to an actual main game character pref someone who was executed, she could have to play that part in the execution and die the same death, but this time with like. monokume film crew everywhere and actual monokume in the director’s chair with a beret. either is a fun idea.

____________________________________________________________________

i’m a film major, and her character is heavily based on the kind of students and filmmakers i see and work with. there really are people like this who believe suffering for art truly makes them better than others and will purposefully put themselves through psychological torment. additionally, i wanted to see a more realistic portrayal of mental illness and show a character who (at one point at least) treats and is trying to maintain health. in the end, kanon is a narcist who lets her ego get in the way of her wellbeing and success. 

also, kanon’s outfit is so stupid she has strawberry blond hair in a bob with like a widow’s peak, silvery-blue eyes, and wears a big flowy short sleeved button-up shirt, and olive-colored shorts. she has a big pair of aviators she wears tucked in the collar of her shirt, statement earrings, a pop watch, and lots of rings. and she is def not straight ut it’s not like she’s pursuing romance she’s pursuing death

[raybansandcoffee]

Adventure of a Lifetime: Chapter Five

You can find all of Adventure of a Lifetime HERE.

**********

My phone started to ring from where it was laying next to me. I looked down to see it was a FaceTime call from my father.

"Sorry, it's my Dad."

"Don't apologize. You have a lot going on in your family today. Answer the phone." I smiled and slid my thumb across my iPhone screen to answer the call.

"Hey Dad."

"Hey kiddo. How's the first day of summer break?" he asked. "You look wet so I'm going to assume good."

"It's great. Axe is sleeping right now and we are all over at Ellery's best friend's house swimming."

"That's a fun way to start summer."

"Elle sure thinks so." She was swimming over to us and Jeremy picked her up out of the water so she could sit next to me.

"Hi Papa!" She loved my Dad.

"How's my little fish? You don't have a life jacket on so I'm assuming you're doing good."

"It's so fun, Papa. Mom and I still know the flip trick."

"That's awesome, Elle." Before I knew it Ava was sitting next to Ellie. "And this beautiful little girl must be, Ava."

"Hi," Ava said excitedly. "Are you Ellie's Papa?"

"I am. It's very nice to meet you." I moved the phone a little bit to show Jeremy.

"This is Ava's Dad, Jeremy. Jeremy this is my Dad, Vince."

"Nice to meet you," Jeremy said as he smiled. "You've got a great daughter and granddaughter."

"I like to think so, though my daughter is evidently aiding and abetting her little brother." We all started to laugh as I turned the phone back to look at me.

"Do you really think T gave me a chance to say yes or no? He called me and said he needed a break from California and didn't even really give me any sort of timeline so originally I assumed he meant like a vacation or something. Then Frankie called me in a panic because of it and now Tony is in a car driving here. I have no idea what is going on."

"You're okay with him staying with you, right?" I nodded. "Do you need any financial support with him there? I know having the four of you in the house now it is taken care of but you don't need to support him."

"I should be okay but don't hold me to that. If he's going to pay his own way I'll be fine."

"I can send you some money to cover his rent." My Dad was the best. He knew that Tony needed space and rather than freak out at me for taking him in like my sister was doing he was seeing how he could help. Tony and I had always been close despite the age difference. He knew I'd take care of him, let him have the space he needed but also make sure he didn't totally screw up his life.

"I should be okay."

"Let me help. Please."

"Fine. But you don't need to. He has a trust fund. He can cover his own expenses."

"I know. But you guys are my kids. I want to help where I can. Have you decided yet if you're coming back to LA for the trial?"

"I haven't. Jane and I had lunch this week. She's planning on going to LA for it. I told her she could stay at my condo. If I come back there's no way the kids and I can fit there."

"If you come back you can stay at home. Mandi and I would love to have you and the kids here."

"You would love to have us there. Mandi would be stressed out by it and likely at the spa by the second day." He laughed because he knew it was true. She really was a kind person but she wasn't really sure how to be a mother, even to Tony really. She did a lot better with him than she did with Frankie and me, though admittedly getting thrown into our lives at 13 and 10 couldn't have been easy for a 25-year-old woman. She'd fallen for my Dad. By the time I was 13 and Frankie was 16 we were living with them full-time as my Mom had accepted a job in London. She was still pregnant with Tony. It was an incredibly overwhelming time for her and I never really understood it until the moment the babies became mine. I hadn't quite found a way to tell Mandi that I got it now and she was still too panicked that at the idea of having five grandchildren when she was still pretty young.

"You're funny, kid. Will you let me know when Tony gets there? I know Mandi is really stressed about it. Enough that she called me trying to see if I could move workaround to come out for the memorial service."

"Really?" I was shocked.

"She has been really torn about that. She wants to be there for you and the kids, you know she always loved Sam. But she wasn't sure if your Mother was coming and you know how she can make Mandi feel."

"Mom is somewhere in Europe. After how horrid that funeral service was she's not allowed here for this. I haven't told anyone but I specifically asked her not to come back. She always makes everything about her and this is about celebrating the life of my two best friends and being there for the babies. I'd like you both to come but if you can't sneak away from work tell her she is more than welcome with me. Frankie and Ryan will be here with the kids. Alex and Max are coming with the boys. Obviously Savvy and Tony will be there since they are my roommates now. Sam's parents are coming though they aren't staying overnight or anything. I have 8 bedrooms plus the studio above the garage which is where I'm putting Tony. I can make it work to have you all here. Or there's a really great hotel not far from me that you'd love if a house full of people is too much for you guys. I'd love for you to see the house and the kids." They had only seen my Dad and Mandi over holidays since I wasn't ready to go back to LA yet. Thanksgiving last year the kids and I stayed and hosted Sam's parents. December when we all went to Mexico for Christmas and New Year's. Then for Spring Break my Dad took all of us to Florida to go to Disney and Universal because my oldest nephew, Carter, turned 10 and his only wish was to go to Hogwarts. They'd missed out on Axel's first birthday which was really hard for me but Mandi's Mom had fallen that week and she was taking care of her as she adjusted back at home so they hadn't been able to come.

"I'll talk to her tonight but plan on us being there. I don't want to overwhelm you with more people. Between you, your sister and Alex there will be seven kids not including Tony or Savannah. That's a lot of people."

"Tell me about it. It was overwhelming for Axel's birthday and the boys didn't even come with Alex because they were on some camping trip with Max and I think Cub Scouts or something."

"Send me the information on the hotel. That might make it easier to get Mandi there."

"Deal."

"I love you, kid. I'm proud of you."

"Thanks, Dad. It means a lot. I'm trying my best. It would mean a lot to have you there. Plus if Ryan can sneak away from the office you can too."

"Ryan has been on my ass about it. I think he and your sister were planning on coming to the house Saturday with the kids to go swimming and I know your sister plans on making sure that we know she's disappointed that we were going. The looks she gave me for missing Axel's birthday party should be illegal."

My sister was often overbearing and pushy with me but she was that way with everyone. She was very often put in charge when we were growing up. She's always felt like making sure I was taken care of was her responsibility. It's why she took me and the babies into her house until we moved. Then when we moved she abandoned her husband for two weeks and stayed with me while I adjusted to my new life and new house. She sobbed as she had to leave knowing that I wasn't fully adjusted to life as a new Mom in a new place and she couldn't do more. She needed to get back to her own kids and husband. I didn't go more than a month without seeing her. She'd just appear in my living room sometimes with all three kids and husband, sometimes by herself, sometimes with one or two of the other members of her family. She'd been here like clockwork every month since I moved because I wasn't ready to take the kids back to LA yet.

"Well, I'm being rude. I'll call you tonight once the kids are in bed while Tony and I are getting him settled. I love you Dad."

"I love you too, Charlotte Marie."

"Bye Papa!" Ellie said.

"Bye Fish!" I watched as my sidekick waved goodbye to my Dad and he blew her a kiss before ending the call.

"Sorry," I said to Jeremy.

"No need to apologize. You've clearly got a lot going on in your family." He helped both of the girls back into the pool before jumping out to sit next to me. "So your Dad hasn't been out here since you moved?" I shook my head trying not to get emotional like I always did when I talked about this. "Any particular reason?"

"I honestly don't know. His work has been nuts since we moved. As much as he's not handling the murder case, he's been involved. He does all of the legal stuff for all of us so while Sam was basically like another kid because she often appeared at home with me, she and Michael were also clients. Mandi had always taken to Sam the way most people did. She was magnetic. This beautiful soul that just released this light into the world. Mandi had been who went with me to get the kids stuff. She was a Mom, she knew what I'd need. She lives with that same trauma. She also got two more grandkids added to her life the day she turned 50 and while she adores them to no end that was overwhelming. She was 25 when she married my Dad. We moved in full-time with them when she was pregnant with Tony. Frankie and I were far from easy. If you ever meet my sister you'll know why. Just imagine me but three years older and 300 times crazier. She's got so much energy. Mandi never really got the motherhood she imagined. She was thrown into it with two teenagers while also caring for an infant. I didn't quite understand why it was so hard for her until a year ago."

"That makes a lot of sense. Hopefully, they can make it out here and it'll give you and your stepmom a chance to build towards a new relationship."

"One can hope." I needed to change the subject. Talking about me constantly wasn't a good plan when making a new friend. I could hear Sam in my head.

Come the fuck on, Chuckles. You suck at making friends. Stop answering his questions about yourself. You're weird. You're lucky that I overlooked the weird for your brilliance and the humor that hid somewhere inside you. Ask him about himself. And look at his eyes, they are gorgeous. So is his chest.

"Are you close with your family?"

"Extremely. It's why I have such a big house. Being the oldest means that there's a lot of siblings around. My sisters all have kids so this is essentially Camp Renner. Everyone shows up for a couple weeks in the summer. My house in LA is pretty big too. I made sure that they would fit a big family because of how mine is. Growing up as the only boy was a bit weird but my sisters are my best friends. They can be nosy, a little overbearing, and protective. My divorce was brutal and my sisters were the fiercest protectors."

"I've never been through a divorce but my last breakup, Frankie was the all-star. When he showed up to pick up his stuff from my condo he left with a black eye because of my sister."

"How long ago was that?"

"A year ago." I laughed a bit.

"Damn, the last year has been a bitch for you, huh?" I could only nod and laugh. "My divorce was kind of like that. Hell, we got married and filed for divorce in less than a year. Worst mistake of my life."

"Was Ava a product of your marriage? I mean only because that might make it less of a mistake. Ugh, here I go with asking the awkward questions now."

"My ex-wife is Ava's mother but we'd already had Ava. It was truly a nightmare. And of course, because it's all public record the tabloids had fun with it. The downside of fame."

"It seems like one of the many. Like I feel like being famous has a few perks but a lot of drawbacks. Like honestly I'm glad that as a composer people might know who I am but they don't KNOW who I am. I can still live relatively anonymously. You, on the other hand, you're on Axel's pajamas." Jeremy started to laugh again.

"I'm also on Ava's pajamas."

"Okay, I'm not gonna lie. I sleep in a cut-up Avengers t-shirt but there are no pictures of anyone on it. Just the A logo. Tony might freak out when he meets you. Just a heads up."

"Is he a big fan of the MCU?"

"That's an understatement. He's a comic book nerd. Yet another of his skills is that he can draw and he started doing that fairly young when he found comics. He was 12 when Iron Man came out in the theaters and despite being 26 and Tony being WAY too young to see it, I took my little brother to see it. We have gone to a midnight showing of every MCU movie. When he was in school he'd sneak home for the weekend so we could go. We haven't missed a single one. He's trying to tell me before the final one comes out next year that we are going to re-watch all of them together in preparation, in chronological order not release order. I don't know if the Mom version of me can handle that."

"So 26 when Iron Man came out. Makes you 36?"

"Look at you being good at math," I replied laughing.

"Okay. You have a live-in nanny that I've met at Ava's birthday party. She's at least 18 or 19 and you said she's a friend from college's kid. Explain that to me."

"Well, she's 18 for another three weeks. Alex got pregnant fall of freshman year and had Savy the next summer. She stayed in California that summer. My Dad had moved from Beverly Hills to Santa Monica during the school year. His place is huge and has two apartments as part of it. Alex was from Chicago if she'd gone home she'd never come back. She lived in one of the apartments, Sam in the other. She brought Savy home to my Dad's house and that was our home. We did that until our junior year when we found a place closer to campus that all of us moved into. We all lived together until the three of us were done with our master's degrees. The summer after we finished and before Alex started on her doctorate she got married to Max and I bought my condo as Sam took off to London for a couple of years thinking she'd fallen in love."

"Your Dad and Mandi let your two best friends move into their house one of whom had an infant?"

"Well, sort of. The only part we all shared was a courtyard. The main house had 7 bedrooms, they wouldn't have ever noticed. But there was a guest house and apartment. I give Mandi a hard time but it's mainly for the way she freaks about Tony. She was much cooler before he hit high school. She was the master with Savannah when she was tiny. I'd find her in the middle of the night walking the baby up and down the deck by the pool softly singing to her while Alex was passed out on a lawn chair. Tag teaming that baby with basically four Moms, my Dad, and Tony, it was literally a village raising the child." My phone buzzed in my hand, a new message from Mandi. "Speak of the devil."

Thank you for taking your brother in. You're a great sister and mother. Things have been rearranged and we'll be able to be out for the memorial service. I know your house will be full but if you have room for us I'd love if we could stay.

Of course I have room! It's a HUGE house. You know that Sam wouldn't have anything that wouldn't fit us all. Tony will be staying in the apartment over the detached garage so there's plenty of room. I figure that Alex's boys and Carter will stay in one room. Aria and Harlow usually like having a slumber party in Ellie's room. So there's still a lot of room. If you think that many people will be overwhelming I can get you a hotel room.

It'll be okay. I'm from a big family. I can handle this. Also if I can't handle this and need a hotel after a night you aren't allowed to judge.

Are you kidding me? I honestly thought about telling Tony that he needed to stay in the main house and I was moving to the apartment. EVERYTHING is overwhelming for me these days.

EVERYTHING.

It will be nice to have you there. I'll plan for an afternoon where we can go to this cute salon in town for pedicures. We can either do it just us or we can make all of the men watch the children and we can bring Frankie, Alex and Savy.

Men watch the kids. I need time with my girls. Well, the adult ones. I tried to take Aria and Harlow for pedicures last week. I do not recommend that.

Noted.

I'm really glad you changed your mind. I know the kids will be too. They miss Nana Mandi. Tony will enjoy seeing you too. Maybe in a couple of weeks, he will have settled down a little.

I think by then I'll be okay. I'm being overbearing. I realized after he packed his car up and sped out of the driveway that he did exactly what I did at his age. I'd spent two weeks at home listening to my Mom talk about priorities and the future and couldn't take it. Granted I packed a car and moved from Laguna to Los Angeles. Tony is going a little bit farther but he has you. If I hadn't packed my car up and left I'd never have met your Dad. I wouldn't have you and Frankie in my life and Tony wouldn't exist.

Just don't tell him I'm having this epiphany. I want him to sweat a bit.

My lips are sealed.

Your Dad said you might come home for the trial. If you do you are welcome to stay here. I'll get the kids' rooms ready. We can make the three of you comfortable here. Well, as comfortable as you can be in this situation.

I'm thinking about it. Jane is going. I should be there to support her. But I just don't know if I can go back and relive it again. I basically relive it anytime every time I close my eyes.

That's been my fear. My therapist and I have done a lot of work. Are you still seeing yours?

Yeah. We FaceTime once a week for appointments. She's gotten a few referrals for me here that I've tried two out here. The second one wasn't terrible but it's just not right yet. I have an appointment with a third try next week.

Good. I'm really excited to come to see you and the babies. I miss all of you so much. Oh and your Dad said that you had a playdate today with Ellie's best friend and a Dad. I need to learn more about this.

Yes we are at a playdate and I'm the worst guest as I've been dealing with family stuff for a while now but he seems fairly understanding. Ellie's best friend Ava invited us over to celebrate the first day of summer in her pool with her Dad. I'll call you tomorrow to tell you about that. He said he'd come help deal with Tony moving in and help me move stuff around to get him settled.

That is a very nice and helpful Dad.

He is. The questions going through your head have answers. They are yes, yes, and no.

Too funny. Call me tomorrow and we'll start planning what I can do to help for the visit for the memorial.

I will. Love you.

Love you.

"Funny story. Mandi realized that she did the exact same thing Tony is doing when she moved to LA." Jeremy started to laugh loudly. "So she grew up in Laguna. Went off to school. Moved home to figure out what she wanted to do next and within two weeks her Mom drove her so crazy she got in a car and moved to LA. She told me she's glad Tony has me because I know from the story that she stayed in a hotel for a while until she found an apartment and a job. At least I still get to watch out for Tony and make sure he doesn't do anything completely fucking stupid. She and my Dad are coming out for the memorial and staying with me, which is impressive."

"That's great. Hopefully, it will be a good weekend to have your family all together."

"I'm sure it will be."

***********

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

We now have a little bit more insight into Charlie's relationship with her parents. Mandi has reason to have been a bit distant over the last year. It's understandable that if she saw the same scene that Charlie did that she would be struggling, especially given her relationship with Sam. Also, the fact that she wants Tony to sweat a little bit about running away to his sister's is kind of funny. Charlie is very close with most of her family.  We will continue to learn about that along the way.

The idea of little Axel having Hawkeye pajamas is kind of cute. I have a 4-year-old nephew who says that Hawkeye is his favorite Avenger. He's one of mine too. While Captain America is my favorite superhero, Hawkeye is probably my favorite Avenger because he is just a normal guy with super skills, not superpowers.

Now we just get to wait for Tony to arrive and see where things go with Jeremy and Charlie since her answers to the questions in Mandi's head were 'yes, yes, and no.'

I can't wait to share more of this story with you and hope you're enjoying it.

xx. AM

[hello-imasalesman]

Can we please be blessed with headcannons of a pining Arthur? He’s such a soft boah 💕

Arthur puts pencil to paper and every time, the results don’t come out the way they’re supposed to. It’s not that he’s never seen something in his head and have it come out different on the page— that’s nearly every time, that’s what drawing was, trying to sketch his best approximation. But everything that’s coming out is wrong, a disconnect between his hands and his brain. The horses’ legs are crooked, the flowers look flat, the landscapes are lopsided. 

“You’ve had your nose in that thing for ages,” Marston calls, too close, behind his head. Arthur startles, perched on a covered crate in front of the fire, though he doesn’t close the journal in time, not before John’s gotten a good look. “Who’s that supposed to be, anyway?”

Arthur huffs in annoyance. “Trying to draw you, actually.”

He’s drawn John, Hosea, Dutch and even Grimshaw more times than he can count. They’ve been together so long, their faces are familiar, even when he’s not staring at them like he usually does when he sketches. But on this page, Marston looks lopsided and uneven, his brows furrowed and his scars lost to the smear of lead. 

“What the fuck, Arthur.” John responds first with anger, and then almost barks out a laugh as he leans over him to look closer at the page. “You made me look like Bill.”

Arthur shakes his head, pinches the bridge of his nose and tries to swallow a peal of laughter that threatens to escape down. “What?”

Sketch-John has a stern countenance, though with Arthur’s current inability to draw, its less stern than sour, like a child trying to act tough. His eyes are uneven, too. Arthur idly tries to correct it as John looks on, but it just makes sketch-John look like he has one black eye, his pencil scratching uselessly against the page.

“Yeah, yeah.” He tries to lean over, press a finger to the page, but Arthur’s sitting up and leaning away from Marston before he can smudge a greasy finger on it. “I ain’t that ugly and my beard don’t look like that.”

“What beard?” Arthur snaps his journal closed, looking over his shoulder at Marston’s frown. “You can grow one of those? I thought that shit on your face was from the dog.”

“I could say the same of you!” John shouts, unsuccessfully, because Arthur is staring at him with raised eyebrows and an amused smirk that’s just-visible beneath the mustache that’s in a sore need of a trim, before the hairs curl over and into his mouth. He doesn’t have to say anything, barely gets out a giggle before John’s hands are thrown up into the air, “Look, I don’t have to deal with this.” And he stomps off with Arthur’s laughter at his back. He keeps that sketch, at least. Will probably tear it out and leave it on John’s pillow, when he finds the time, just to antagonize him a bit; all in good fun, until Dutch tells him to play nice because his favorite son is cussing and stomping around instead of choring.

But still— as amusing as the doodle is, Arthur can’t draw. Or, at least, nothing is coming out well in his eyes. It’s been weeks now. Flat and lifeless, crooked lines. Between hauling bags of grain, he crouches next to the chicken coop, watches the birds scratch at the ground. He sketches one of the chickens, and then aggressively scribbles over it when the texture of the feathers looks, too on-the-nose, like chicken scratch.

“What’re you drawing?”

Kieran asks like he’s been rehearsing the simple sentence in his head for too long, and still, his voice cracks at the end as Arthur fixes him with a look over his shoulder. He always forgets how tall Kieran is until he’s sitting somewhere in Kieran’s vicinity, and he has to look up to meet his eye. He doesn’t carry his height well, perpetually slouching, unless he’s dealing with the horses. Then he has to draw himself up, if only to get them to behave.

“Nothing.” Arthur admits with a grumble, because it feels like he’s been drawing nothing over the past few days, just series of lines and shapes that don’t connect together into anything tangible. Kieran’s smile goes uneasy, baring his teeth with uncertainty as he takes a step back and away from Arthur. 

“Sorry to bother—“

“No, no, it’s fine.” Arthur rushes to clarify; he hadn’t realized his tone had been rough enough to have sent the other man almost scurrying off. Kieran flinches, stands and stares at his hands. “Frustrated with myself, is all. Nothing’s coming out right.” He hesitates, for a moment, before he turns and moves in closer, so that Kieran can see. His eyes go a little wide, glancing up towards Arthur’s face before he looks at the proffered journal.

“It all looks real fine to me.” Kieran says, almost sweetly, hesitantly flipping back to a previous page. Makes something in Arthur’s gut twist. “I- I think you’re being hard on yourself, is all. I could never get anything to look like that.” He taps below one of the sketches of the horses, careful not to actually touch it, “That’s a real nice one. Nell?”

“Yeah,” Arthur confirms, huffing out a chuckle. “Stands still long enough to sketch. Just like Uncle, actually.”

Kieran laughs, genuine, the corners of his eyes creasing, tucking strands of hair behind his ears. Arthur laughs, too, even if it’s not the funniest thing he’s ever said, but its infectious when he hears it from him. “It’s true,” Kieran says, “Oh, he can be real awful, even if he’s a sweet horse. Always rolls around in the dirt after I brush him through...”

Arthur flips through his journal, showing Kieran a past page of Uncle in various states of sleep around camp, his face an exaggerated, comical caricature, drool from his lips. Kieran laughs again, hides his mouth behind his knuckles pressed against his lips, setting the edge of his teeth against the cracked, rough skin there.

Kieran’s always busy working. Arthur is, too, even if Dutch don’t see it, browbeating him whenever he lingers too long in camp, the moments in-between where Arthur catches his breath. He stays for a day or two, at the cusp of outstaying his welcome, then heads off; hunting, carriage theft, house robberies, whichever the road takes him towards. Keeps his hands occupied with violence instead, hoping once he’s sufficiently wrought enough destruction he can create something again.

Camp pulls him back, like it always does; he cleans before he returns, for Grimshaw’s sake, but ice cold river water can’t rinse off the dark shiner he’s sporting before he rides into camp and leaves his horse in the pasture. He has to walk through camp to reach the stewpot, loading up the cleanest bowl he can find with Pearson’s pottage. By the time he’s finished eating standing  next to the fire, spitting the most inedible bits of gristle to the ground, someone’s left a salve by his cot. A metal tin promising pain relief, among a long list of other cures, the label blurred under the oils of nervous fingers ceaselessly worrying the paper. Arthur rolls it over in his hands. Mulls over who gave it to him as he smears the thick lotion around his eye, under his shirt and the deep bruises across his ribs. The greasiness sticks to his fingers, and is an easy excuse to blame when he settles back into his cot that night and his pencil slides uselessly over the pages, and it snaps in half between his fingers.

The next morning, Kieran leaves him another gift when he tacks up Arthur’s warhorse, tucked into his saddlebags. Arthur doesn’t notice the two pencils wrapped carefully in a scrap of fabric, pre-sharpened, until he’s nearly in New Hanover.

Arthur returns a week later with he sun at his back, his shiner healed. He doesn’t draw attention to himself when he makes his way to the tithing box, pulling a stack of cash and two watches from his satchel. He has a necklace, too, delicate and brilliant glass beads, but he puts that back into his satchel when it comes out tangled with the watches; that’s for Tilly.

With the sun setting, there’s precious few hours of light left in the day, though they’re longer and longer with each sunrise. Arthur hates the heat that clings to his brow, but loves the hours of daylight summer brings. Sweating oneself dry was a small price to pay for more hours in the day. But they’re running thin, the sun disappearing in a fireball beyond the water’s horizon; Arthur has only a few minutes to find Kieran. He wasn’t in the pasture when he dismounted his horse; he’s not at the scout campfire, either, and Arthur’s hands feel sweaty in his gloves. He almost misses him, on his second walk through the camp; near the chicken coop once more, sitting beneath the large tree there, quietly smoking in its roots.

“Kieran.”

Kieran looks flushed, the ember of the cigarette throwing his face into stark shadows. His eyes shift upward as he stubs it out against the bark. “Arthur?”

“‘Fore the sun sets,” Arthur starts, trying to calmly stress his limits, the strange feeling that their time was quickly waning. It doesn’t make much sense; Arthur could always show him tomorrow. But there’s an urgency that’s gripping his lungs, as he reaches for his satchel, “Look.”

Kieran stands, using the tree as support for his wobbly legs. Arthur opens his journal, paging to the ribbon holding his place.

He has to rotate his journal, and Kieran pulls in close, looking over his shoulder. It’s hard lines in some spots and soft smudges in others, thumbs and knuckles used, the side of his pencil washing shades of grey. The soft shadows mottled underneath Kieran’s eyes, purple and blue, somehow rendered perfectly in the soft smudge of lead across the page. The greasy knots of his hair. Kieran’s smile, crooked and easy. It’s all there.

“Oh.” Kieran clutches at Arthur’s sleeve, where he’s rolled it up to the elbows, in the folds of fabric there. Buries his fingers in and scrunches his grasp in tight. “Oh. Arthur, I—“

He sounds almost on the edge of tears, maybe. Or some other emotion swirling thick in the back of his throat. The sun slips slowly beyond the trees, the clouds drifting fat overhead speeding up the pace of darkness falling over Clemen’s Point. The campfire has been allowed to dwindle down further than it should, and it barely casts any light towards where they stand behind the coop and the shadows of the trees. Kieran steps forward and Arthur steps back, lets him box him up against the rough bark of the big oak before he grasps Arthur by the front of his dress shirt and kisses him. Kieran tastes like tobacco, mostly, when he parts his lips to let Arthur lick into his mouth, suck on his bottom lip until Kieran whines and his knees buckle against Arthur’s legs. When they part, Arthur’s eyes opening, it’s almost too dark to see Kieran’s smile, the redness splotching across his cheeks. Another picture to sketch, another page in his journal.

[kylorenpunk]

Do them all. Suffer as I did 😂

Bitch I told you this was our friendship. We force each other to answer all the questions. 

1. selfie

Well… I wasn’t dubbed Selfie Queen for nothing… 

This one is interesting bc I have zero makeup on. The most recent ones are too blurry. A lot of my fav selfies are full faces of makeup tho. 

2. what would you name your future kids?

I feel like that’s a decision for both parents but I really like the names Felicity, Isabella and Dimitri. Yes, all of them are names from various franchises I enjoyed throughout the years. Be glad I’m out of my phase where I thought Vladimir was a good name. 

3. do you miss anyone?

I miss all my friends I don’t get to see frequently. Love all of y’all and hope y’all are doing well in life! 

4. what are you looking forward to?

Fucking graduating. Jesus Christ it’s taken me five damn years. 

5. is there anyone who can always make you smile?

From my club it’s Chris, Yara and Josephine. Also my entire friend group from back home. Honestly I love my friends so much. 

6. is it hard for you to get over someone?

I feel like every situation is different so that’s a tough question to answer. 

7. what was your life like last year?

I honestly don’t remember much from December of last year. It was a good time though. 

8. have you ever cried because you were so annoyed?

I’m an emotional bitch. I’ll cry over anything. I cried over fucking Mulan the other day. 

9. who did you last see in person?

My parents and brother. Earlier in the day my club. 

10. are you good at hiding your feelings?

I’m shit at it. My face gives away everything. The other day my professor was going into her inspiration porn narrative and I just gave her a cold dead look the entire time. 

11. are you listening to music right now?

No but I have the Hamilton soundtrack stuck in my head right now since that’s what I was last listening to. If you haven’t heard it I highly suggest it. Man I wanna see it so badly. 

12. what is something you want right now?

Sleep but I’m trying not to throw off my sleep schedule right now and am waiting a bit before going to bed. I only got three hours of sleep last night so that’s fun. 

13. how do you feel right now?

Kinda tired. Relieved that I got two service projects in a row done today. It’s been a long weekend. 

14. when was the last time someone of the opposite sex hugged you?

My friend Sebastian hugged me when I dropped him off. I guess that counts. 

15. personality description

I’m a makeup loving nerd who enjoys sitting in pajamas watching anime and superheros as much as she enjoys swatching EVERY lipstick in Sephora. According to my friends I can’t go 5 seconds without mentioning how old I feel and my love for Dungeons and Dragons. I’m also an asshole. (Wow this sounds like a 12 year old writing this)

16. have you ever wanted to tell someone something but you didn’t?

Yeah tons of times. It’s bitten me in the ass. Oh well live and learn I guess? 

17. opinion on insecurities.

Everyone has them? If they say they don’t then they are lying. Mine is mainly related to my appearance or how I speak. 

18. do you miss how thing were a year ago?

I miss how things were in the beginning of this year. It started off strong then kinda turned into a shit show. 

19. have you ever been to New York?

No but it’s my top thing on my bucket list. My friends and I are highly considering a trip. 

20. what is your favourite song at the moment?

Of all time: Get Low by Lil Jon 

Currently: “Told You So” by Little Mix (If you haven’t heard their new album I highly suggest it if you love girl groups that preach women empowerment) 

21. age and birthday?

22 - June 21st (She’s a Cancer)

22. description of crush.

I don’t have a hardcore crush right now. More like 5 second crushes that are over the second they do something I don’t like. 

Edit: Currently “celebrity?” crush is Nathan Sharp. I am seriously considering dropping $55 to see him at a convention this month. 

23. fear(s)

Heights, something terrible happening to my loved ones, wild snakes, and the usual common anxiety fears 

24. height

Five foot three inches. I’m short. Yes I know it’s not that short but tall people like to put me in the short category anyway. 

25. role model

My mom’s coworker who was my internship supervisor. She has a doctorate’s in what I want to do and is amazing at what she does. The amount of knowledge and experience that women has is incredible. She is also extremely funny and knows how to teach with a sense of humor which I appreciate. 

26. idol(s)

Celebrity idols? I don’t really idolize celebrities bc humans are humans and have flaws. 

27. things i hate

Immaturity, intolerance of differences, demeaning slurs, The Last Jedi, and the new Fantastic Beasts movie 

28. i’ll love you if…

Play with my hair, are kind to my friends and family, share common interests, show an interest in what I have to say, basically respect me and those close to me and we’re good 

29. favourite film(s)

Hairspray, High School Musical, The Greatest Showman, Stardust, The Harry Potter series, Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy

30. favourite tv show(s)

Jane the Virgin, Naruto (fuck off I hate myself too ok), the first three seasons of Arrow before it turned to shit

31. 3 random facts

I’m not artistically talented but I genuinely enjoy makeup and creating looks

I have a nonverbal brother with autism and he’s my favorite person ever

I completely programmed my brother’s communication device by myself 

32. are your friends mainly girls or guys?

Now my friends are mainly girls but when I lived in Tampa 90% of my friends over there were guys (Hi Mason). I’m going to say that’s bc of us all playing video games in the Delta lounge (RIP Dirty D). But yeah now it’s mainly girls and 80% of my dude friends are gay. 

33. something you want to learn

Sign Language. Ice skating. Hairstyling. Fashion (I’m trying to be better about putting clothes together). Also I’m down to learn more about makeup and techniques 

34. most embarrassing moment

Either farting while doing an air guitar in front of my entire girl scout troop

or signing to my friend that I liked her friend at a party and his brother repeated what I had signed out loud in front of everyone

wait. No. When I F U C K E D  up in front a super hot guy while volunteering and then chose an 18 year old jock as my wingman. 18 year olds are dumbasses. Don’t use them as wingmen. Fuck you Khaled. 

35. favourite subject

In grade school I think it was English or History. It really all depended on the year. 

36. 3 dreams you want to fulfill?

VISIT NEW YORK 

Hike the Smokey Mountains 

Visit Europe 

37. favourite actor/actress

Chris Evans (especially when he is trying to fight orange president on twitter) 

Also Mark Hamill is perfect 

38. favourite comedian(s)

I don’t watch comedians often. I guess the Fluffy guy? 

39. favourite sport(s)

The only time I give a shit about sports is when my university is undefeated or playing my first university in football. Or the soccer world cup if it’s on. However I appreciate the skill it takes to do a sport. 

40. favourite memory

San Antonio. It was my first time traveling without family and it was the greatest time. It was such a cool city 

41. relationship status 

Single - I take my sweet ass time 

42. favourite book(s)

Eragon (No, I haven’t finished the entire series. No, I don’t want spoilers bc I will do it eventually.) 

43. favourite song ever

“Get Low” by Lil Jon 

“Look Through My Eyes” by Phil Collins 

44. age you get mistaken for

Last year I got mistaken twice in a row within an hour for a middle schooler. I was 21 at at that time. During my internship one of the parents asked me if I had any kids. I’m either mistaken as a parent or as a 13-15 year old. There is no in between.  

45. how you found out about your idol

N/A since I don’t have an idol

46. what my last text message says

“lmao it’s alright” to Joey but the previous one is more funny “thankfully no one threw up this time” in regards to my friend’s party last night

47. turn ons

Well I aint about to talk about my sex life so let’s go with personality 

Common interests such as superheros or anime, charismatic, easy to get along with, common goals in life, cares about their loved ones, has passion, and someone I can hold an intellectual conversation with 

48. turn offs

rudeness, immaturity, inattentiveness, bad tempers, superiority complex, not being genuine, judging others, treating people like objects, and general lack of care for others or themselves

49. where i want to be right now

Back in the smokey mountains in a cabin watching movies and anime

50. favourite picture of your idol

N/A 

51. starsign

She’s an emotional Cancer

52. something i’m talented at

Apparently I’m good with kids      Makeup too I guess? 

53. 5 things that make me happy

friends, family, nerdy shit, makeup and Kakashi

54. something thats worrying me at the moment

Some shit happened last night that has me worried for some friends but I’m sure they’ll figure it out 

55. tumblr friends

A shit ton of y’all I know IRL. I won’t tag y’all bc that’s annoying af 

Joey’s my only internet friend @earthschampion (answer my text bitch) 

56. favourite food(s)

pasta, empanadas, crab rangoons, taziki sauce 

57. favourite animal(s)

Meerkats and koala bears

58. description of my best friend

K @burnitstronger: realest damn friend you will ever have. Will tell you how it is and provide never ending love and support. Never understands my dumbass shenanigans but loves me anyway. Love you boo 

J : Will also tell you how it is and forces you to watch Naruto and ruin your damn life. Will happily go with you to eat junk food after class. Will fight anyone who wrongs you and is def still plotting revenge on all my ex’s. Stans Loona

M: Will scream at you in Leo in a frightening but loving way. Has the best damn fashion sense I have ever seen. Is the friend that comes by when I need her to and brings a shit ton of snacks and love (J does this as well).

59. why i joined tumblr

I was bored on fourth of July in 2012 and my friends kept telling me that this website would be fun. Also the avengers “fandom” from back then 

60. ask me anything you want

I would say I’m sorry Mason but I enjoy making all my friends suffer. Make sure to give him a follow bc he’s cool. @masonjar828

[peacefulwriter88]

Ripples - End

Reader x Steve Rogers, Reader X Bucky Barnes

Warnings: M for language

A/N: Finally, the ending. So very sorry this has taken to so long.

Tag List: @captainxamerica, @just—love, @senpaiace, @glittercoveredsouls, @findacauseandserveit, @devil-may-cry-11-blog, @agentbarnescarter, @mannatgalhotra @harrisbn @sapphire1727 @ishipmybed @nessy-bearxb @calaofnoldor @cautionconed @badassbaker @mannatgalhotra @girlwonder86 @thatpunkrockfandomchick @barnesdeservestheworld @gratittie@memory-of-a-goldfish @tacohead13 @greeneyedgirls4 @lloeppky@justanotherbuckydevotee@jasmineladjevardi @hollycornish@seargantbcky @planet-holland @violentpleasure @patzammit

Catch up with the series by reading it in the Masterlist

It’s the heat from the sun, no longer shadowed by the clouds that stirs you from your sleep. You blink up, the blinding light obstructing your vision for a few minutes before you sit up, allowing your memory to flood back to you as you look out into the endless blue horizon. You inhale the deep scent of salt and sea, the cool ocean spray sprinkling your skin as you lift yourself up from your seat, adjusting the sunglasses on top of your forehead to cover your eyes.

“You know,” the voice of T’Challa has your eyes snapping to him, taking in the black garb clashing with the intricate designs of his scarf that he’s wrapped around him. His dark chestnut skin popped against the outfit as he continued to steer the boat. “When you asked me if you could be hired to support my countries transition, recon work for my country and those who need support in the world, I thought you’d be a little more professional about your napping hours. Or what else am I paying you for?”

You roll your eyes as you smile, grabbing your backpack and grabbing the relic he was specifically identifying.

“I not only scouted for you for the past six months but have been able to identify the smugglers that have been stealing your rich resources,” you place the large, glowing relic beside him as he chuckles, “But have tightened your security, helped outsource a few of your men and helped your team with a variety of missions. I’d say a little nap now and then can be excused.”

He can’t help the smile that tugs on his face as he nears the docks, watching you carefully before he says,

“You know, Steve has –“

You hold up your hand, shaking your head. When you had left the Avengers Tower that day, your report had been clear. You had served many years for many agencies, always accomplishing your mission. Never once had you been distracted. Until now.

The obvious variable was The Avengers, the team that somehow had taken you into and shifted your ability to make smart decisions. So the decision had been clear.

“You can continue your work with the CIA. But you no longer will be surveying The Avengers team.”

Terry’s voice had been crisp as you stood outside the compound, the many men in suits moving past you as he looked down at you, his eyes knitted. You had your arms crossed, ignoring the off glance looks from not only the men who had been curious to see you – the highly trained assassin who had helped bring down and bridge a multitude of nations in the room. You also were ignoring the group of Avengers who were curious for the outcome, who wanted to see what you had decided. Both with the men and for your livelihood.

“To be expected. You placing me in a Syrian desert for the next few years.”

His eyes bear into your own as he continues,

“You can’t make any contact with this team if you expect to continue to work for the CIA for your duration serving this country. You, my dear, have proven to be a liability.”

“I’ve been the best agent that’s been able to support surveillance and navigate this team in a way that has cut back on lives, have rallied them together, helped them accomplish the mission of what the Avengers stand for. For you to place me with a group of people for three years – people who for once don’t give a damn about the outcomes of war but want to ensure that people are safe – can live their life with freedom…. you want me to cut that out?”

Your voice is cynical and Terry’s eyes betray something. Regret. Compassion. Then they click back to business,

“You have worked missions just as long with the same kind of work. You’ll bounce back.”

“And like I told you, I was working to help one side win over the other. This is different.”

An impasse. He knows what you are going to say next. Is afraid of it. Doesn’t know what the outcome will be from it.

“You can’t just leave.”

“You can’t tell me what to do with my life. You pay me to achieve goals. I’ve achieved goals. And even beyond that, this team is functioning in a way that none of the people have been able to achieve. So fuck this male driven bullshit. I’m out.”

You lean over, pulling at your badge as you pull your gun out of your holster around your thigh. Your CIA credentials. You place it in Terry’s hands as you shake your head.

“I’m tired of blindly following orders and not challenging what I believe. I’ve been a puppet for too damn long. Being around Steve has taught me that,” your eyes flash up to the window of Steve’s room where you know he’s looking down at you. “So, consider this my resignation. I have control over my life. I don’t have to blindly follow your orders anymore. I’m not a prisoner.”

You can’t help one last look toward Bucky’s room before, your decision already made between the both of them. You turn on your heels, heading to your car when you hear Terry chuckle, understanding.

“What am I going to tell my employer when they find this out. You know they want you out of the picture. Permanently.”

You smile as you open your car door, looking over it before giving a sad smile.

“Tell them that if they can find me, to stay out of my way. Next time I won’t be so nice.”

He chuckles as you step into your car, smiling as you pull away.

You hadn’t contacted Steve, or Bucky after you had left that day. It was too risky. You knew that the whole team would be monitored. You were a loose end that a lot of agencies had left in the wind. Knew that you would be impossible to find so your connection with them – to The Avengers – was their only opportunity to find you. Kill you. Finish what had been started.

So you ran. Ran to keep them safe.

“Are you going to let me finish or are you childishly going to ignore me?” T’Challa says, bringing you back to the present and you roll your eyes as you move toward the front of the small boat that is quickly catching up to the green horizon. Back to his home.

“Proceed.” You throw over your shoulder and you can fill the boat slow down as it slowly nears the docks.

“Steve has been asking about you, trying to see if I have any resources to find you. I tell him no, per our agreement. I understand your reasons why. But then, Bucky Barnes, the most silent man I think I may have ever encountered has also asked of you, if I have the resources to locate you. You have two men looking for you, Y/N, and you refuse to tell me the real reason why you have left the CIA. Are avoiding them.”

Your silent as you cross your arms as he says in a lower voice, almost lost with the sound of the engine,

“I have known you a long time. My family, my people know the great work you have done on behalf of the world. I know you are private but I warn you of this – you’ve spent too much time taking on the burden of others. Too much time sacrificing your personal happiness in exchange for others. For once, share the weight of your problems. There are so many people willing to help take on the burden.”

You look back into the horizon, fighting back the tears consuming you. Six months and your body had been an emotional roller coaster – all because of two specific super soldiers.

Love was a betrayal.

“I know that you are right,” you finally say – your voice above a whisper, “I know that you are. But trust is a luxury I was never allowed. I don’t tell you because you have always been there for me and you deserve the opportunity to speak ignorantly freely without my nonsense. I will take care of the Barnes and Rogers situation and one day, if you can trust me, I will tell you why it has to be my burden and mine alone.”

T’Challa tsks but you know he accepts your compromise. Understands that you were always forced into a world that didn’t give you the privilege to make choices fueled by your emotions. He could only respect that for what it was.

It’s when you’re five minutes out from the dock, the figures coming into better view that he says,

“Rogers and Barnes are going to be at the compound this afternoon. In the medicine and science department.”

You whip your head around and he sighs, shaking his head.

“I thought that maybe you were being over dramatic about this whole situation and perhaps was going to force a reunion. I know see that the weight of this situation borders on danger and that ultimately you need to be the one who engages with them. On your terms.”

You stand beside him, placing a gently hand on his shoulders.

“Thank you. And T’Challa, I will tell you what this all about. But please give me time.”

T’challa smiles, shaking his head.

“I know. But time isn’t on your side. Remember that.”

Avoiding the medical bay was a lot easier than you expected. In fact, you were surprised as you sat in your room, sorting through your reports on the advanced Wakandan tablet that you were able to get through the past mission with ease. Outside of Okoye paging you, asking the status of the past mission, you had been left in silence.

Which was dangerous.

When you were left idle, nothing to distract your thoughts your brain always dragged you back to them.

You had asked T’Challa one small gift when you had arrived. Unlimited access to their files to be up to date Thanks to the help of Shuri, you were able to hack into Stark Industries systems, a backdoor into the lives of the Avengers. Undetected by F.R.I.D.A.Y. you had known how both super soldiers had faired when you missed them most.

They were operating the way one would expect them too but neither of them were happy.

That was your fault. If you had been smarter you would have made your decision and dealt with the consequences, despite the complications continuously surrounding it.

However, you were a coward. So, you wouldn’t. Couldn’t.

It’s Shuri’s playful voice that has you logging out of the files you had always looked through, photos of the three of you back when things were simpler. Pulling you away from nostalgia.

“I thought broken Barnes and captain do good couldn’t get any more emotionally worse. Except they can and guess who is to blame.”

She dances into the room with ease, her hands subconsciously tapping with a tablet as she flops on your bed on her back, an amused smile on her face.

“What do you know Shuri?”

Shuri grins as she looks over at you.

“I thought for so long you had a thing for my brother,” you roll your eyes as she sits up. “What!? Everyone knows that at one point you and him did…you know. Got all close and personal.” She wiggles her eyebrows and you laugh shrugging your shoulders.

“Yes, but that was a long time ago. And I’m pretty sure I was a rebound, he always had his eyes on Nakia.”

“Yes, yes I get that now.” Shuri sits on her knees as she plants her hands on her thighs, her task temporarily forgotten. “Cuz those two emotionally shattered white boys are whipped for you. They kept asking T’Challa if he had gotten any wind on you, if anyone was on your tail and if so if you were okay. And you know what T’Challa did.”

“He lied.” You smile as oyu sit back against your headboard and Shuri nods enthusiastically.

“Yes! My brother never lies. He’s just like the good-looking Captain. Pure at heart. Boring.” She rolls her eyes as she grabs her tablet and begins her work.

“You should go see them. At least let them know you are okay. They might actually peel over and die at this point from stress. Bucky looks worse than he was when I was supporting him getting rid of all the demons Hydra had trapped in him. That man is fine as hell but looks like something the cat dragged in. Literally.”

You close your eyes, giving a deep sigh. You know you should. You really wanted to. It was just so damn complicated.

“They deserve to know the real reason why you are avoiding them.” Shuri says softly, placing a gentle hand on your knee and you crack a smile, shaking your head.

“Yea. I know.”

“It can’t hurt. And then you can go hide somewhere like on an island or whatever. You’re good at that.”

You laugh as you sit up, checking yourself in the mirror. You had let your hair grown out a bit but outside of that not too much of you had changed. Minus the obvious thing.”

“Just let them know I’m okay…” you say distractedly and Shuri turns to you, attention focused as she nods her head enthusiastically.

“Just one interaction.”

You give one last long sigh before nodding.

“Fuck it. Can’t be any worse than the mess I’m already in.” you say as you start to head out of the lab.

“Maybe take a shower! You stink!” Shuri yells, causing you to stop in your tracks. Shower. Right.

If it was being dragged into hell by your past demons, might as well do it looking well.

Steve stands at the bay window, watching the city underneath him move in business. Bucky was meeting with a mechanical engineer to look into the upgrade of his arm, making sure that everything was up and running. Bucky had picked up the complicated Wakandan language during his time in hideout, and spoke with his doctor with ease in the native tongue. Steve didn’t care to stay in the advanced room as a third wheel, opting to wait for his friend in T’Challa’s office. After he had caught up on a surveillance report from Tony, he had wandered idly to the window, getting lost in his thoughts.

Typically, when this happened, when he was given the luxury to get lost in his thoughts, his mind drew itself back to you.

He missed you so damn much.

Hadn’t realized how much he had relied on your companionship, your presence a constant in his life, until you were gone.

Now the compound seemed emptier, quieter. Things that you had done habitually had shifted. Coffee was no longer a morning constant, running in the mornings were lonely, mission reports seemed bland. This reflected in Bucky as well. If anyone thought Bucky was quiet before he met you, they know understand the vow of silence. He only gruffed out responses, if that, and was so silent that even Sam had forgotten he lived in the compound. Both of them only spoke when necessary, their voices such a rare occasion that it even started Natasha’s once when Steve had asked for her to pass him a butter knife. 

He loved you.

Bucky loved you.

And you were gone.

Even if you had chosen Bucky, at least you would still be around. He could live with a broken heart knowing he could see you day to day. Not having you around was worse. 

He’s so distracted watching the movement occurring in Wakanda’s downtown district that he misses the door opening, closing softly as someone nears him.

“Is Bucky ready T’Challa? Thank you for letting me use your office to get some work done…” his voice cuts off as he turns, the breath getting kicked out of him at the intruder who had stolen his silence. You hadn’t changed and yet you were the same. Your hair had grown a bit, pulled back in intricate jewelry. The Wakandan sun dress was flattering your curves, your smile pulled into the same smile as your eyes twinkled in mischief.

God, you were beautiful.  

Then his eyes travel down to your belly, the small bump accentuating out from the rest of your dress as you placed a protective hand over your stomach, your chest rising and falling quickly. He could hear your heart beating faster, hear an even smaller, faint one echoing your own and his eyes soften as he walks toward you, reaching out a shaking hand out to your belly. He falls on his knees in front of you, his hands carefully placing themselves of either side of your round flesh as he looks up at you.

“Hiya Steve. There’s something I’ve been trying to figure out how to tell you and Buck for a while….”

A/N: Sorry luv’s – I honestly couldn’t resist! Wanted to celebrate the opening of Black Panther and open it up to continuing this series. If enough people are into the continuation of this series please let me know! I very much enjoyed writing this for you all!

[vjjeons]

whaddup!! i’m acacia (satan). i’m twenty years old, i use she/her pronouns and i hail from the pst timezone! i’m super excited to be in a lil ol’ group again because i haven’t been in one since like… idk?? but enough about me — let’s get to the good stuff aka my girl, veronica jeon. it gets pretty lengthy, so if you just want the overall version of it just scroll to the very end! anyways, if you like this, i’ll take it as an invitation to IM you for plots, so be careful!! ♡

jennie kim + cis female + she/her — have you met veronica jeon? they are a twenty-one year old artist/barista known as the philophobic. a pansexual scorpio, they are independent + bold, as well as stubborn + cynical. their soulmark is a crescent moon on the left ring finger, and they can feel the emotions of their soulmate.

BACKGROUND + TRIGGER WARNINGS: abuse, death, drugs

to kick things off, veronica grew up with just her mother around. her father had always been MIA. so, she doesn’t have a lot of memories involving him. therefore, her mother dated an array of men. often times neglecting her daughter, with the exception of the times she brought in successful report cards.

when she was thirteen, her mother married a man who physically abused veronica any chance he had. especially when mrs. jeon started cheating on him. so ronnie recoiled around her art for a few years.

being alone as an only child, she had to keep herself entertained. she started off by doodling with just a pencil. but, eventually expanded with acrylic paints and water colors. thus ultimately discovering her love for the arts!! 

she isn’t exactly sure how she’s going to find a successful career path through her beloved hobby. which is why she picked up her job as a barista to make some actual cash flow.

when veronica turned sixteen, she thought of tracking down her father in hopes of reuniting with him. this lead her to her grandmother’s house. who eventually had to break the news that her father had died from a drug overdose before she was born.

though, the news was shocking. it didn’t leave her feeling empty. instead, she found something better — her grandmother. she instantly connected with the woman and eventually found herself making her grandmother’s home as a sort of safe haven.

her grandma even supported her with her arts. buying her any supplies she needed and giving her suggestions on places she can find more muse. basically fulfilling the mother role veronica desperately needed.

but one day while visiting, the woman had passed in her sleep. this took a toll on ronnie considering how attached she became to her grandmother and her home. she would have to return back to her mother’s and her step-father. when she went back, the man attempted to abuse her again. however, she ratted him out. ultimately sending him to his imprisonment.

once she turned eighteen, her mother had packed up her things and left the girl behind. though, ronnie was fazed by the woman’s actions. nor did she feel any lose considering how little she cared about the other.

but good things do happen to v! one day she received a letter explaining that she inherited her grandmother’s fortune. (which she often uses to pay off her apartment bills.) along with a small journal with letters and locations to keep veronica on the right path. to stray away from the hatred and negativity and turn those emotions into something beautiful.

PERSONALITY + RELATIONSHIPS

PERSONALITY: she is charming, creative, and witty. however, she can be quite cynical, stubborn, and reserved. she has that tell it like it is personality. she just calls it likes she sees it. even if she’s not exactly right. she’s witty and intelligent. she’s very particular when it comes to most things. she wants things done correctly. so she often runs by the quote, “if you want things right you gotta do it yourself.” she doesn’t like relying on others to get things done when she knows she could do it faster and better. a little bit of a ocd queen. she’s one of those people that set their mind to something and goes through with it until the end. she has a way with words. her silky soft voice makes it easy for her to manipulate people. (unless you’re close to her, then they can see past the bullshit.) but don’t get her talking about feelings. because you’re gonna just hear crickets if you do that. she’s sort of an introvert. over the years, veronica had to work hard to become the person she is today — someone who is hopeful, who sees art and beauty everywhere, even in the ugliest parts of the world..some days, it’s a little harder, but she never gives up. she’s slowly growing out of her tough head of hair and morphing into a young woman so beautiful over the years, but also at times, terrifying?? self destructive?? even if she’ll never let anyone see her deteriorate her insides sigh. basically she’s a hot mess. but she tries her best to hide that shit. yeye sweg.

when it comes to FRIENDS veronica can always use some of ‘em. she possess the qualities of a good friend loyal, honest, trustworthy. however, she can be quite pessimistic. which might be a reason why she doesn’t have as many friends. once her mind is set to think a certain way it’s hard to persuade her to believe otherwise. she’s the type of friend to listen to your problems, but be prepared to listen to her unwanted opinions – all of them. she’s also the type to put a friend in check when they need it. she thinks of it as trying to convince them to see the bigger picture. first impressions is something she might not be very good at. while she isn’t exactly the definition of rude, she tends to not filter then things she says. overall, i would say that she might just need a handful of friends, a whole bunch of acquaintances, and her a ride or die.

please flood her with ENEMIES. i know for a fact that she has these. being so boldly opinionated and all. you know this girl has more than enough haters. sometimes she has some very evil intentions. she’s vengeful and irrational. but, don’t get me wrong. she’s not pure evil. veronica does have some good intentions, she leans more to the chaotic evil side. deep deeeeep deeeeeeeeep down the girl is trust issue central when it comes to letting people in. she can’t help it. she has abandonment issues thanks to her parents. therefore, she might come off as standoff-ish to new people. she keeps her circle tight. so maybe they think she’s cliquey? or she could have pushed people away. she’s like that one rihanna meme, them: you can’t just cut people off. ronnie: *holds a pair of scissors* she doesn’t have problem with letting people go. so maybe people think she’s a bitch because, “how could you just drop our five year long friendship like that.” and she’d just shrug. but really, she’s hurting beyond repair and will go home crying while eating a thing of ben & jerry’s chunky monkey. and there’s always that possibility where a friendship just didn’t work out. maybe they just stopped having time for each other and now it’s just mad awk. whatever it is, an enemy would b beaut.

as for LOVERS. veronica is a fucking cynic. love ain’t real and life is cold. she’d rather just be alone and happy than in a relationship and suffering. she sees so many people around her settle for less. (her mother being a prime example of that.) especially when she’s giving advice for friends. she doesn’t think people should be so easily manipulated by the concept of love. she knows there’s a difference between wanting someone and wanting to be with someone. and in her eyes, most people only settle for the sake of companionship. it’d be a hard mission to win this girl over. but not impossible. she’s definitely been on a few dates and had a couple of relationships. though most ended quickly due to the realization she only fell for their smooth talking and nothing more. 100% dabbles in the quick hook ups for the sake of fulfilling those needs. though, if the right person were to come along… she’d be loyal to them, completely devoted to just them.

WANTED CONNECTIONS

sooooo, my lazy ass actually found the power to make a RELATIONSHIPS PAGE. peep it, tell me what you think. if you can’t find something your muse fits, throw whatever ideas you have right at me! i’m so down for whatever.

MISCELLANEOUS

in a nutshell, she’s an angel with a halo unbalanced with horns, not a devil but not a saint either?? kind yet has a backbone. softer than what she seems like. humorous and witty though understanding. mistrusting but willing to let loyalty speak. veronica is a hot mess dealing with personal issues by lashing out on those around her. she’s loyal, but manipulative. opinionated, but easily offended. intelligent, but sometimes argumentative. she’s a bit of a feminist. trusts no bitch. but if you’re her friend, she’s chill as fuck. though, she’s a bit hesitant when it comes to making new friends. since she’s likes being a lame outcast. but really — she just doesn’t know how to process her good thoughts into words. she’s a barista and a tortured artist. she’s independent, hardworking, and determined. muse inspo for her: kat stratford (10 things i hate about you), samantha borgens (stuck in love), michelle (spider-man homecoming), and a hint of blair waldorf (gossip girl). anyways, give her girl scout cookies and she’ll love you til the end of time.

congratulations ! you made it to end ! if you read all of this… i love you. i only ever write so much bc… it gets me in character lmao. also, i wrote all of this the second i woke up. so don’t mind the grammar mistakes and what not. HENNYWAYS… i would really love to plot with everyone. so just slide into my DMs and we can get things started!! luv u *blows a kiss*

[esseastri]

Megan Reads Oathbringer (part 2)

Onwards and onwards, my friends

Part two encompasses pages 90-144 (previous parts)

Alyx: How did you STOP??? And go to slEEP??? Me: Well, I hit a Shallan chapter, so it actually wasn’t that hard...

Here we go

I’m actually hoping that this book will maybe?? make me like Shallan more?? again? I mean. I’ve had a lot of time to ruminate on the reasons I dislike her, but maybe she’ll get better. maybe she’ll grow. Maybe she’ll realize she‘s been a prejudiced berk and recognize her privilege and I WON’T have to write that essay on why it bothers me when people in fandom pedestal her.

ANYWAY HERE WE GO

I realize the epigraphs are, like...some dude who wrote a book in-universe about the sword, but I can’t help reading it as Brandon talking about this book, in a meta kind of way.

“You can hate me. I understand.” NOOOOOO I WANNA HUG HIM LET ME HUG THIS HUMMING, INCORPOREAL SPREN BOY

BRIGHTLORD BROODING-EYES

PLS CHILD

Me: WTH THEY KNOW SHE’S A LIGHTWEAVER???? WHY IS SHE CALLING HERSELF AN ELSECALL--oh. oh, that makes sense.

Just read the next sentence, Megan, usually, stuff works out.

okay, here’s the thing. We know the Recreance happened. We know the Radiants all gave up their Shards and killed their spren and it’s called the betrayal of humankind, but I’m just curious... if...how do I word this. If the Desolations are connected to there being Radiants around--if the two things are causal and reactionary--then...wouldn’t the Recreance have been a good thing? A thing to stop the Desolations?

I’m just curious how much of their history is revisionist or, you know, lies. Or misinterpretations, at the very least. A lot of their records got wiped out. Repeatedly. I’m just wondering if the record of the Radiants being the good guys was one of those.

Shallan: “It is quite possible to remain properly feminine while fulfilling my duties as a night.” Scout lady: butbutbut...I wanna be butch

Renarin still wearing his Bridge Four uniform makes me haaappyyyyy

THE BOY IS GOOD

“If anyone would be able to go about intimidating forces of nature, it would be you.” I mean. He outdaded the Stormfather by doing exactly this, so.

Radiants working together to do cool things!!!!! AAHH!!!!

I’m genuinely concerned by who we’re going to appoint OUR champion, when Odium’s arrives and we have to do one-on-one combat with it. ‘Cause like....you know Dalinar wants to do that himself. But Adolin is the Dueling Boy. That’s what he does?? And I’m... CONCERN

ooooooooh has Renarin seen the bad champion? nine-shadows man? he seems familiar with the concept at least...

PHEW the Aimian Oathgate was destroyed. Listen, it’s not that I don’t want Aimia to be protected or helped, I just. Don’t. want. 2000-cremlings-in-a-trench-coat just...hanging around.

oh no

oooohhhh noooooo

another?? murder?

I DID NOT SIGN UP FOR MURDER MYSTERY PLOT IN MY EPIC FANTASY

ADOLIN HOLDING SHALLAN’S HAND IS A LOT I’M HERE FOR IT THE MUTUAL COMFORT IS A GOOD

but also: Adolin. my boy. please, it’ll be okay. you will be okay.

“This has to be the same killer” DOES IT THOUGH? What possible reason would Adolin have for continuing a murderspree.

I’m

this is. what, framing? Trying to make it seem like Adolin is doing more bad? Copycat trying to pin their crimes on whoever got Sadeas so it’s rolling into one investigation instead of kept separate?

I’M CONCERN

ABOUT

MY BOY

“She had forgotten he was with them.” Full offense, but how do you just. forget. Renarin exists. Shallan, please.

NO I DON’T WANT THIS

I DON’T

HOW DID I PREDICT THIS I WROTE THIS BECAUSE IT WAS SAD NOT BECAUSE I WANTED IT I DON”T WANT THIS

“You want me...to investigate Sadeas’ murder?” I WANT TO HUG ADOLIN A LOT

I DON’T

DALINAR TRUSTS HIM SO MUCH SO SO MUCH AND I’M

AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH

Renarin knows, doesn’t he? He can see the lie...

I’M

Kaladin is smiling and I’m emotional about it.

Kaladin is chuckling and I’m EMOTIONAL ABOUT IT.

The Sylblade!!!! I love it

I also really love the idea of him using the sword as a symbol and then suDDENLY getting into a fight and like...as he swings the sword it turns into a spear. I want this in my life very much.

why would the stormforms steal grain though?

I mean, I get that they need to eat, but like... they’ve been deliberately NOT attacking any of the towns and when the did “attack” it was just to steal grain. Not to hurt people.

tHIS is exactly why I ain’t calling them Voidbringers. Not yet. These are just stormform. Something much worse is coming.

That black sphere is too ominous.

“She must be desperate living out here. I mean, look at you. Hair that hasn’t been combed since you flew across the continent, uniform stained with crem, and that beard.” I REALLY LOVE SYL BUT ALSO: SCRUFFY KALADIN IS HOT AND YOU CAN PRY SCRUFFY KALADIN FROM MY COLD DEAD HANDS.

SYL PLEASE

oh no, Syl, don’t ship Shalladin, we all know that’s a bad idea on sooo many levels.

“Yes, well, let’s have somone swing around the corpse of your sisters by the feet, and we’ll see whether you consider it a ‘mark of bad character’ or not.” AAAHHHHHHH OWW

I’m still SO MAD THAT BRANDON KILLED OFF SUREBLOOD. WHAT DID THE BIG ROCK HORSE EVER DO TO YOU, BRANDON

Let Adolin be happy 2k17!

AAHH THE BROS

I LOVE THE BROS IT’S SUCH A POSITIVE SIBLING RELATIONSHIP THEY’RES SO SUPPORTIVE OF EACH OTHER AND SO REASSURING AND AAAHH

I love them

eeyyyyyyyy, Glysblade! EEEYYY REGROWTH!!!!!

YOU GOT THIS, REN, AAHHH

eeyy, punk!Dalinar

omg

he got his Plate by.......kicking. a guy. off a cliff. I’m. DALINAR, PLS.

I MEAN WHEN YOUR GENERAL STRATEGY IS “MORE BRUTALITY SO THAT PEOPLE FALL IN LINE BECAUSE THEY DON’T WANT TO GET PILLAGED” YOU GOT PROBLEMS

no wonder the Alethi aren’t very united. rule by fear is never very successful in the long run.

also, Sadeas can fuck right the hell off oh my god

Admiral Akbar voice: It’s a trap!

oh, hey, I was right

honestly, how the heck did Dalinar survive his wild and misspent youth?

This asshole they’re fighting diDN’T TELL HIS CITIZENS HE WAS GOING TO DROP A CANYON WALL ON THEM?? ?DIDN”T EVACUATE THEM??? WHAT THE FUCK

WHAT KIND OF RULER

I

WHAT A FUCK

AAHH THE ARCHER GUY HE RECRUITED IN THE FIRST FALSHBACK IS TELEB!!!! I’M!!!! EMOTIONAL!!!!!!

“He wouldn’t put it past them to attack him once he was distracted with the duel. It was what he himself would have done.” PUNK!DALINAR WAS KINDA OF A JERK OMG???

um

he didn’t... murder the small child

did he?

what the fuck

Dalinar. what the.

fuck

I’m mad at Dalinar. I’m really mad at him. oh my god. just. THAT’S A BAD YOU DID A BAD AND I REALIZE THAT HE HAD DONE BAD STUFF BUT LIKE. THE KID WAS VERY SMALL, DALINAR. AND I’M DISAPPOINTED IN YOU.

I’m telling you guys, stormform isn’t the final evolution. You gotta level up your parshman to Voidbringer, okay? and to do that, you need to lose x-number of battles with wild voidspren.

I never even played Pokemon, but I sure do know how to make a reference.

The constant theme in this book--at least in Kaladin and Dalinar’s chapters so far--has been “Do better/Be better” and I just...they’re both so good already, in the present, they’re both such genuinely Good human beings, and I just. That they want to be better is just. so. inspiring.

Theylenah has a queen and I have literally just met her and I love her.

I love hheeerrrrr

swearing and being direct and writing things bigger and underlining them to get he tone across, WHAT A DELIGHT I LOVE HER

THEY STOLE THE SHIPS??? whyyyyy

what are they doing where are they going what is the plan here

poor Dalinar. having to do politics.

Elhokar is being a dramatic baby.

Like, he sort of has the right to it, but also: buddy. my dude. my guy. you gotta grow up. I’m sorry. But you really do.

HIGH KING DALINAR THE MAGNIFICENT

I...listen, this is probs a good thing? because Dalinar should be in charge. But also... kiidddooooooo.

OH SNAP This is actually not a bad idea...send Elhokar to go do something useful for his actual kingdom in his actual home... and get a bonus Oathgate out of the deal? This is actually a really sound idea.

tho what radiant r u sending with him

or will we finally admit that he is a radiant.

come ooonnnnn

“Aesudan is there; if the rioting is still happening, she’s fighting against it.” IS SHE THOUGH? ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE SHE’S NOT THE CAUSE??

omg.

Elhokar requesting Kaladin like “he can save the city after I fail” BBY 1. you will not fail!! 2. god, that hero crush. pls.

SEE, just give him purpose and the opportunity to prove himself and he’s actually a very eager puppy of a king.

NOOOOO

NO NO NO NONOOOO OO

THAT ‘S THE WORST IDEA

DON’T BRING HIM HERE

HE’S EEVIIILLLL

NOOOOOO

NOT TARAVANGIAN

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

NO NO

no

less stuff needs to be happening. this was only, like, 50 pages, and I’ve got enough liveblog to post this?? there IS SO MUCH GOING ON IN THIS BOOK OH MY GOSH I LOVE IT