#How To Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently

[aaynaclinic9]

How to Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently: A Comprehensive Guide

Dark circles under the eyes can be a persistent and frustrating concern for many. They can make you look tired, aged, and unhealthy, even when you’re well-rested. Fortunately, at AAYNA Clinic, we offer several effective treatments to help you remove dark circles under eyes permanently and regain a youthful, refreshed appearance.

What Causes Dark Circles?

Before diving into treatment options, it’s essential to understand the common causes of dark circles, as they can vary from person to person. Some of the main factors include:

Genetics: For many, dark circles are hereditary and more common in certain ethnic groups.

Aging: As we age, the skin around the eyes thins, and we lose collagen, making the blood vessels under the skin more visible.

Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep can cause puffiness and darkening of the under-eye area.

Allergies: Allergies often lead to inflammation and irritation, which can cause blood vessels to become more prominent.

Dehydration: When the body is dehydrated, skin under the eyes may appear dull and sunken.

Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress can all contribute to dark circles.

Permanent Solutions for Dark Circle Removal at AAYNA Clinic

At AAYNA Clinic, we take a personalized approach to treating dark circles, ensuring the best possible outcomes for each patient. Below are some of the most effective treatments available:

1. Laser Therapy

Laser treatments are one of the most popular and non-invasive options for dark circle removal. They work by targeting the pigmentation and stimulating collagen production in the skin. The result is a smoother, more even-toned appearance. Our advanced laser technologies are safe and offer noticeable improvements after just a few sessions.

Benefits: Non-invasive, minimal downtime, long-lasting results

Ideal for: Individuals with pigmentation issues or thin skin around the eyes

2. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers, especially those containing hyaluronic acid, can be used to fill in hollows under the eyes caused by aging or volume loss. These fillers plump up the area, making dark circles less noticeable and giving the skin a more youthful appearance. The results are immediate and can last for up to a year or more, depending on the type of filler used.

Benefits: Immediate results, long-lasting effects

Ideal for: Those with volume loss or deep tear troughs

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy is a natural treatment that uses your body’s own growth factors to rejuvenate the under-eye area. A small amount of your blood is drawn, processed, and injected back into the skin under your eyes to stimulate collagen production and cell regeneration. This method not only reduces dark circles but also improves skin texture and firmness.

Benefits: Natural treatment, minimal risk of side effects, long-lasting improvements

Ideal for: Individuals seeking a natural approach to dark circle removal

4. Chemical Peels

Specialized chemical peels designed for the delicate under-eye area can help reduce pigmentation and improve skin tone. The peels remove the outer layer of damaged skin, revealing fresher, lighter skin underneath. This treatment is ideal for those whose dark circles are caused by pigmentation issues.

Benefits: Non-invasive, improves skin texture, gradual results

Ideal for: Pigmentation-related dark circles

5. Microneedling with RF

Microneedling combined with radiofrequency (RF) therapy stimulates collagen production and skin tightening, effectively reducing the appearance of dark circles and fine lines. The procedure involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin, which trigger the body’s natural healing process, improving skin tone and firmness over time.

Benefits: Stimulates collagen, tightens skin, minimal downtime

Ideal for: Individuals with both pigmentation and texture issues

Why Choose AAYNA Clinic?

At AAYNA Clinic, we pride ourselves on offering world-class skincare treatments in a luxurious and professional setting. Our team of experienced dermatologists and aestheticians use the latest technologies and customized treatment plans to address each client’s unique needs. When it comes to removing dark circles permanently, you’re in expert hands.

Conclusion

Dark circles under the eyes don’t have to be a permanent problem. With a range of advanced treatments available at AAYNA Clinic, we can help you achieve bright, youthful eyes and a refreshed appearance. Book a consultation with our experts today, and let us guide you toward a remove dark circles under eyes permanently.

[codshopping]

How To Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently

How To Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently How To Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently. Are you suffering from dark circles under eyes and wants to get rid of those dark circles permanently. To know dark circles under eyes treatment, first we should know the reason of dark circles. Why dark circles appear and make you surprised with their presence. These dark circles effects on your…

[ayurvedasifa]

How to Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently

Dark circles under the eyes can be a frustrating and persistent issue, affecting people of all ages. Whether caused by genetics, lack of sleep, allergies, or lifestyle choices, these dark shadows can make one appear tired and older. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to reduce and even remove dark circles permanently. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you achieve brighter, more youthful-looking eyes.

Understanding the Causes of Dark Circles

Genetics and Skin Tone

Genetics play a significant role in the development of dark circles. Individuals with fair skin or thin under-eye skin are more prone to this issue because the blood vessels beneath the skin are more visible. How to Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently Additionally, those with deep-set eyes may naturally cast shadows under their eyes, creating the appearance of dark circles.

Lifestyle Factors

Lack of sleep, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking can all contribute to the formation of dark circles. These factors can lead to dehydration, poor blood circulation, and the breakdown of collagen, making dark circles more prominent.

Allergies and Medical Conditions

Allergies can cause the blood vessels around the eyes to dilate and become more noticeable. Conditions such as eczema or sinus issues can also contribute to under-eye discoloration.

Effective Home Remedies for Dark Circles

Cold Compresses

Applying a cold compress to the under-eye area can reduce puffiness and shrink dilated blood vessels, which can help diminish the appearance of dark circles. Use a cold washcloth, chilled cucumber slices, or a cold spoon for best results.

Cucumber and Potato Slices

Cucumbers and potatoes have natural skin-lightening properties and can soothe the skin. How to Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently Place thin slices of either vegetable on your closed eyes for about 15-20 minutes daily to see improvement.

Tea Bags

Tea bags, especially those containing caffeine, can help reduce dark circles. The caffeine constricts blood vessels and reduces fluid retention, while the antioxidants in tea promote healthy skin. After brewing tea, chill the tea bags in the refrigerator, then place them on your eyes for about 10-15 minutes.

Visit for more - https://sifaayurveda.com/blog/how-to-remove-dark-circles-under-eyes-permanently/

[healthcareonlineblog]

Vanish Dark Shadows: Effortless Eye Revival!

Step into the light with unique, easy-to-follow strategies that make dark circles a thing of the past. Refresh and enliven your gaze today! 

Unveiling the Mystery of Dark Circles

Dark circles under the eyes have perplexed many, emerging as shadows that hint at our lifestyle, health, and genetics. But what lies beneath these seemingly innocuous marks? This article delves into the enigma of dark circles, shedding light on their causes, effects, and remedies. Join us as we unravel the mystery and offer insights into how you can minimize their appearance or prevent them altogether.

Understanding Dark Circles

At the core of dark circles lies a combination of factors, from genetics to lifestyle choices. Understanding these underlying causes is the first step toward effective management. Let's explore what makes our under-eye area a focal point for such concerns.

Common Causes of Dark Circles

Several factors contribute to the formation of dark circles. Lack of sleep, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle habits play significant roles. But it's not just about being tired; how these elements interact with our skin's unique characteristics can either exacerbate or mitigate the appearance of dark circles.

The Impact of Sleep on Dark Circles

It's no secret that sleep is crucial for our well-being, but its impact on dark circles is particularly pronounced. Understanding the relationship between rest and the under-eye area can illuminate ways to reduce dark circles simply by modifying our sleep habits.

 Nutrition and Dark Circles

What we eat also affects the skin around our eyes. Certain nutrients can strengthen the skin's resilience against the formation of dark circles, while deficiencies can make them more pronounced. This section will guide you through dietary choices that can help keep dark circles at bay.

Prevention and Treatment Strategies

The battle against dark circles is fought on two fronts: prevention and treatment. Understanding and implementing effective strategies can significantly diminish their appearance or even prevent them from forming in the first place. Adequate sleep, proper hydration, and a balanced diet are foundational. Incorporating specific skincare products containing vitamins C and K, retinol, and hyaluronic acid can also provide targeted support to the delicate under-eye area.

Skincare Routines for Dark Circles

A dedicated skincare routine can make a considerable difference in the appearance of dark circles. Start with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove impurities without stripping the skin. Follow with a serum rich in antioxidants like vitamin C to brighten the under-eye area. A moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid will hydrate and plump the skin, diminishing the shadowy effect. Finally, applying a retinol cream at night can improve skin turnover and reduce pigmentation over time. Remember, consistency is key to seeing results.

Home Remedies for Dark Circles

For those who prefer natural solutions, several home remedies have been touted for their effectiveness against dark circles. Cucumber slices, known for their hydrating and soothing properties, can reduce puffiness when placed over the eyes for 10-15 minutes. Similarly, cold tea bags, particularly green or black tea, can help tighten the skin and reduce swelling due to their caffeine content and antioxidants.

 When to See a Professional

While many cases of dark circles can be managed at home, some situations warrant professional consultation. Persistent dark circles that do not improve with lifestyle changes or topical treatments may indicate underlying health issues. Dermatologists or cosmetic surgeons can offer treatments such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or fillers to reduce the appearance of dark circles caused by pigmentation or thinning skin.

The Psychological Effects of Dark Circles

Dark circles are more than just a cosmetic concern; they can significantly impact one's self-esteem and mood. The association of dark circles with fatigue or illness can affect how individuals perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others. This can lead to a decrease in confidence and increased self-consciousness, particularly in social or professional settings.

Social Perceptions of Dark Circles

Society often equates a fresh, bright-eyed appearance with health, vitality, and readiness. Dark circles, conversely, might be misinterpreted as signs of tiredness, poor health, or lack of care. This perception can influence personal and professional interactions, affecting individuals' social life and career opportunities.

Makeup Tips for Concealing Dark Circles

Makeup can be a powerful tool in concealing dark circles and restoring confidence. A peach or orange-toned corrector can neutralize blue or purple tones under the eyes. Applying a concealer that matches your skin tone over the corrector and setting it with a light powder can ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish. Remember, the key is to blend well and build coverage gradually.

The Future of Dark Circle Treatments

The field of dermatology constantly evolves, bringing forward innovative treatments that offer new hope for those battling dark circles. Research into topical treatments with more effective absorption and longer-lasting results is ongoing. Similarly, advancements in laser technology and non-invasive procedures promise more targeted solutions with minimal downtime.

FAQ Section

Are Dark Circles Genetic?

Yes, sometimes dark circles can run in families, so if your parents or relatives have them, you might too.

Can Diet Affect the Appearance of Dark Circles?

Yes, what you eat can make a difference. Drinking enough water and eating fruits, veggies, and lean proteins can help. Eating too much salt can make dark circles worse.

How Long Does it Take for Skincare Products to Reduce Dark Circles?

It depends on the product and your skin. Using eye creams or serums with good stuff like retinol, vitamin C, and caffeine can show results in a few weeks to a couple of months if you use them regularly.

Are There Any Permanent Solutions for Dark Circles?

There's no guaranteed permanent fix, but options like fillers, laser therapy, or surgery can help a lot. You should talk to a doctor to see what's best for you.

Can Dark Circles Indicate Health Issues?

Sometimes they can. Allergies, not enough sleep, or health problems like thyroid issues or anemia might cause dark circles. If you're worried, it's good to see a doctor to check things out.

 Conclusion

Dark circles, while common, can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, skincare routines, and professional treatments. Understanding the underlying causes and exploring the available solutions can help diminish their appearance, boosting confidence and well-being. Remember, the journey to brighter eyes begins with self-care and informed choices.

[ioniccosmetic]

How to remove the dark circles at home naturally in 6 hours?

Dark circules under your eye mean the area of the skin below of your eyes become darkenedthe problem of dark circule mainly found both in men and womens and when dark circules occur we often feel dreadful and awful .Dont worry you are not only one who faced this problem . often most stunning celebraties have encountered this problem .In this time we often use concealers to hide these dark…

[totheblood]

in between | s.r.

pairing: post-prison!spencer reid x best friend!reader

summary: things are different, spencer's different. but how he feels about you is the one thing that has never changed. the only problem is now you have a boyfriend.

warnings: smut ! 18+ mdni!! lowkey cheating (lol), cursing, problematic reader, angst.

a/n: i am never beating the star has a cheating kink allegations!! I DO NOT I PROMISE... but yeah... this got away from me, i am touch starved and ovulating. reblogs, asks, and replies are so appreciated and encouraged! thank u kisses.. PLEASE SEND SPENCER REQUESTS!!!

wc: 5.9k

"I just can't come between 'em, they got their own thing I wish he'd stop pretendin', he won't let his phone ring."

Spencer was different after he got out.

It wasn’t like you could expect any less. Much less would change you for the worse and you knew that, but something about the way Spencer sat slumped over in his desk doing paperwork made your heart sink. He wasn’t as chatty as he used to be, he didn’t have that glimmer in his eyes, and his voice sounded hollow when he spoke. Under his eyes were permanent dark circles and his lips seemed to form a scorn whenever anyone wasn’t looking. Or when he thought no one was looking.

You sat at your desk, pink mug in your hands as you watched him. Watched his eyebrows crease, and watched him flip through the file in his hand as he pressed a free hand to his temple, rubbing it in small circles. Spencer was on edge all the time and he looked like it. You could tell he made an effort with you to be kinder, gentler, but it always came out sounding rehearsed, his face betraying him like it always did. Spencer Reid, your best friend, was now a completely changed person and it killed you that you couldn’t stop it. 

Pushing yourself from your desk chair you approached him, a small smile on your voice as you gently spoke, “Hey.”

He tensed for a second. He still wasn’t used to people sneaking up on him. He made a conscious effort to fix his face before turning to look up at you, his body relaxing upon seeing your face. Placing the file down on the desk, he leaned back in his chair returning your small smile as he spoke, “Hey,”

His voice was quiet as he spoke. He was tired and up close you could just see how much. 

“You, um…” your voice trailed off making his eyebrows raise, “are you okay?” The question was stupid, you knew the answer but it never hurt to ask. Your fingernails gripped the mug handle as you swallowed down the nerves, “are you sleeping?”

Spencer thought of how to answer truthfully. If he was being honest, of course, he wasn’t okay, he hadn’t been okay for a while, but instead, he just gave you a slight nod, “Yeah, I’m fine.” His voice was a little raspy as he spoke, but he turned away from you and back to the file on his desk. He was lying and you both knew it, but you weren’t his therapist and he was not about to open that can of worms on a Thursday. 

“Of course, yeah,” you awkwardly mumbled, “you know I’m still here, right? I’m still me, you know? You’re my best friend… and I, um, miss you.” 

He turned back to you, his face visibly softening as you spoke. He knew you were there for him, you were the only person he would allow to be there for him. He just didn’t know how to open back up or ask for help. Instead, he nodded his head, “I know… and I miss you too.”

“Spence, I-” you spoke but were promptly cut off by none other than Luke Alvez placing a hand on the small of your back as he whispered to you, “We still on for tonight?” 

It felt too intimate, too personal for Spencer to hear, but worst of all it made his stomach sink. He clenched his jaw tightly as he watched the interaction and took note of how you leaned into him. You were comfortable with him, comfortable enough that you should have told Spencer long before now. 

“Yeah,” you whispered back as you smiled sheepishly at Luke, tucking a stray hair behind your ear. 

“Great,” he smiled, removing his hand as he nodded slightly at Spencer before making his way over to his own desk.  

“You guys are going out?” He asked, his tone his own one-off attempt to keep his tone neutral and controlled, but came out more strained than usual. 

“Yeah,” you replied like you were ashamed of it, “it just kind of happened when you were… gone,” you rubbed at the back of your neck nervously, “I was just a mess without you and he was… well, he was there. There for me, I mean.”

Spencer kept his expression neutral, but he felt like a part of him was being taken from him, “So you’re dating now?”

“Kinda,” you squinted your eyes, trying to think of the perfect way to word it, “I mean, yes, like we haven’t labeled it but I think we’re exclusive. I don’t know we haven’t really talked too much about it.”

“And you didn’t think to tell me?” He said, his voice low and laced with bitterness. He had already felt like he missed out on so much and in a way became an outsider in a team he once called his family. But when it came to you, it struck a different chord. 

“When would that come up, Spence?” you replied, giving half of a laugh to soften the blow, “I wasn’t going to tell you about who I was hooking up with while visiting you in prison. It just didn’t seem fair and then you came back and didn’t seem interested in what I had going on. I just didn’t think you cared to know that.”

“Not interested in what you had going on?” he repeated back, the words sour on his tongue, “You think I didn’t care to know? I was in prison, that didn’t mean I stopped caring about you.”

“I know that, Sp-” he cut you off.

“I was in prison, stuck in a cell, for months thinking I was never going to get out and you were… dating,” he didn’t know why he said it, it just kind of spilled out. Like all the bitterness and resentment he had been feeling had finally reached the surface and was spilling over. 

“What was I supposed to do?” you whisper-yelled, “Stop my life forever because you weren’t here? It was hard for me, Spence, and god I missed you more than anything but I needed the pain to stop and he… he stopped it.” 

“Pain? You were in pain? Well, I spent 270 days in a 6 by 8 prison cell. I was the one in pain! You don’t know what it was like!” He knew he was wrong, but it was like all of his anger, pain, and frustration was coming out and he didn’t know how to stop it. He knew it wasn’t a big deal. Logically, he knew that. But right now, all he wanted to do was get it out.

You took a step back suddenly, forcing reality to wash over him as your eyes got slightly glossy, guilt painted all over your face, “I’m sorry… I thought you would be happy for me… I thought…” 

You turned your head from him slightly, avoiding his gaze as you shook your head, “Nevermind, I’ll um, I’ll see you around.”

Spencer watched as you stepped back and saw the hurt look on your face. The anger and irritation faded almost immediately and in its place was guilt and remorse. He had hurt the one person he never wanted to hurt. He reached out a hand to try and stop you from leaving.

"Wait... please don't go," He spoke in a softer and more vulnerable tone.

Your own expression softened at this, like he was a child reaching out for you, scared there were monsters under his bed. His hand linked onto your fingers gently. You could pull away if you wanted to, but didn’t, “What?”

Spencer held onto your hand gently as he stood up from his chair and took a few steps closer to you. He looked at you anxiously, knowing that he needed to explain himself. He didn't want you to leave, especially not like this.

"I'm sorry... I didn't mean to snap at you like that. I just... I feel left out. I felt forgotten," he explained, trying to keep his voice soft, but there was a hint of worry and jealousy in his tone.

"I know, I know, I mean I'm sorry," you replied, shaking your head, "you're my best friend, I should have told you."

Spencer sighed and gave your hand a gentle squeeze.

"No, I'm the one who should be sorry. I'm just... I'm on edge lately and I didn't mean to take it out on you. I shouldn't have acted like an ass to you."

He spoke in a sincere tone, his expression softening as he watched your face. 

You let out a small giggle, taking your hand back from him but gently nudging his shoulder, "You've been through a lot. you deserve to be an ass sometimes," she teased. 

Spencer let out a small breath of relief when he heard you laugh. It was like you were his again, and that part that had been missing found it’s way home.  He managed a small smile at your words, feeling a little lighter.

"Maybe, but not to you. You're probably the only person who I shouldn't take my anger out on. I don't want to lose you."

"You won't," you replied almost too quickly, "you won't lose me, I promise."

"You promise?" he asked quietly, his tone filled with vulnerability.

You lifted your pinky finger for him to take with his, "Pinky promise."

Spencer's lips curved into a small smile as he saw your pinky offered to him. He looked at it for a moment before linking his own pinky with yours and giving them a small squeeze.

"Pinky promise."

You smiled up at him, the bright smile you reserved especially for him as you clicked your teeth, “Well, I gotta… get back to paperwork, Spence, but I’m  glad you’re back.”

Spencer smiled faintly at your bright smile, that only you seemed to bring out in him these days. "Yeah, I should get back to work, too. But, um..." He paused for a moment, his expression growing more anxious as he spoke, “Tonight, with Alvez… do you think you could cancel?”

"Why? What's wrong?" you asked, a worried expression clouding your face as you lightly gripped his forearm. It used to be a comforting touch but right now it felt foreign. 

"I just-" He let out a slow breath and paused before continuing, "I just want to spend time with you, alone. I feel like we haven't really had time to connect since I got out, and I miss you."

He wanted to feel guilty, he really did but a part of him couldn’t. He did want to spend time with you, but he also just didn’t want your time to be taken up by Luke. 

“Oh, Spence,” you cooed, voice soft as you took your hand back, “of course I can cancel. My place or  yours?” 

Spencer's expression softened and relief washed over him at your words. He couldn't help but smile faintly as you agreed, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders. He thought for a moment before replying, "Your place. I haven't been there in a while, and I need a change of scenery."

"My place it is," you smiled, "I'll go cancel with him right now,"

He watched as you walked over to Alvez and told him you were canceling, and then told him you were canceling for Spencer. Spencer couldn't hear the two of you but it looked like you were fighting. He was talking with his hands, rolling his eyes as you put up a defensive hand. It was clear he was upset and it ended with Alvez throwing down a file on his desk and storming away.

Spencer's expression grew a little more worried as he saw the interaction between you and Alvez. When he saw Alvez throw down the file on his desk and storm away, he felt a pang of guilt. He knew that you had canceled because of him, and it was causing problems between you and Alvez. He watched as Alvez walked away and he let out a slow, heavy sigh as he ran his fingers through his hair.

Later that night, you were in your living room, sprawled out on the couch watching tv as you heard the familiar knocks of Spencer on the door. Opening it up you gave him a bright smile, your PJs in full effect, "Good evening, Doctor," you smiled at him, taking a step to the side to let him in.

Spencer smiled faintly at the sight of you, dressed in your PJs. It was a comfortable and familiar sight to him, and it made him feel at ease. He chuckled softly at your greeting, "Good evening, SSA Y/L/N," he teased in return, his voice a little more relaxed than usual.

You giggled, letting him in, "On a last-name basis, huh?" you laughed again. "I say we watch Doctor Who Series Two, what do you think?"

Spencer chuckled as he walked inside and nodded in agreement. He closed the door behind him and made his way over to her couch, plopping himself down on one end, and resting his arm on the back of the couch. In a way, he hated how well you knew him. He hated how as long as he lived there would be one person in the world to know what he needed and that she would be putting on his favorite season of his favorite show and making it seem like it was her own idea. He hated that you existed and he couldn’t have you. 

"Sounds perfect. Doctor Who marathon it is," he replied with a smile.

"Perfect," you smiled, plopping down on the other end, remote in hand as you moved to put on the show, Spence, who is your favorite companion," you asked absentmindedly as you flipped through the catalog. 

Spencer chuckled at your question and thought for a moment before answering. He shifted around on the couch until he was facing you, his expression pondering.

"Hmm, that's a tough one," he started, his voice thoughtful as he considered the question, "I've always had a soft spot for Donna Noble. She was funny, and her chemistry with the Doctor was hilarious. But Ten and Rose... they'll always have a special place in my heart."

“Ten and Rose are..." you blushed to yourself, "They are endgame to me even though they clearly aren't endgame, but I don't care."

Spencer chuckled at your blushing as you spoke about Ten and Rose, and he nodded in agreement, "Right? They had such incredible chemistry. It's hard not to root for them. The way Ten always looked at her like she was the only thing that mattered. It was like he saw the universe in her eyes," he agreed, his expression growing fond as he spoke.

"Yeah," you smiled, your smile fading as you clicked on the first episode of series two. Spencer noticed your smile fade and he furrowed his eyebrows in concern. He leaned a little closer to you, watching your expression.

"Hey, you okay?"

He spoke quietly, his voice filled with a hint of worry.

“Yeah, it's fine. I just... don't like being in a fight with Luke. it's like why can’t we be more like... Ten and Rose..." you shook your head, "It's stupid, whatever.”

Spencer's expression softened as he listened to you, understanding your frustration. He gave you a reassuring smile and spoke in a gentle tone, "It's not stupid, you're allowed to feel that way. Comparing what you have to some fictional characters... it's natural to yearn for that kind of connection,” He paused for a moment, studying your face, before continuing, "Why do you think you and Alvez can't be like Ten and Rose?"

"I don't know," you shook your head, "it's like I can't do anything right. He's- and I shouldn't be telling you this, but when you were away we would get into so many fights over you. He'd be mad if I went to visit you, or if I was too upset about missing you and he just always kept insinuating that I was like in love with you or something,”

Spencer's expression faltered as you spoke. He could already sense Alvez was jealous of your close friendship, but to hear he had been trying to discourage you from visiting him while he was away... it angered him. But it was the implication that you may have feelings for him that made his heart skip a beat in his chest. But he pushed that feeling down for the moment, trying to focus on what you were saying, "He said you were in love with me?"

"Yea," you whispered, "but I told him it wasn't like that. That we were just friends but he didn't believe it. He still doesn't."

"Why doesn't he believe you?" He asked softly, his eyes studying your face.

"I dont know," you groaned, "I mean we don't have a conventional friendship, me and you, but it was like a piece of me was locked up with you in that prison. I just wasn’t me without you and he saw that and took it as me being in love with you," you replied, ignoring the implications of what that meant.

Spencer couldn't help the pang of guilt that went through him at your words. He knew that being locked up had affected you just as much as it had affected him. He understood that without him, you had felt like a part of you was missing, but it still broke his heart to hear it.

"I'm sorry," he said quietly, his voice tinged with guilt, "I never wanted to make things difficult for you... or put you in a position like that."

"You didn't, Spence," you sat up quickly, putting your hand over his that was situated in his lap, "You didn't do anything okay, my... partner or whatever he is should be able to trust me."

Spencer's expression softened at your touch, and his heart skipped a beat as you covered his hand with yours. He swallowed down the lump in his throat, feeling a wave of emotions wash over him. Your words made him feel a little better, but he couldn't shake off the guilt entirely, "I know, but..." He trailed off for a moment before continuing in a softer tone, "I just wish I could make things right for you, y'know?"

"Not your job," you smiled in a desperate attempt to comfort him, "I'd rather have you in my life than some man who didn't believe me anyway."

Spencer sighed, feeling a mixture of comfort and guilt at your words. He knew that it wasn't his job to fix things between you and Luke, but he hated seeing you hurt or upset. He gave your hand a small, affectionate squeeze as he spoke, "I'm always going to be in your life, no matter what. You're stuck with me."

"Oh, kill me now," you joked, voice soft as you leaned your head on his shoulder, "Eternity with you though?" you whispered, "Not the worst thing in the world."

Spencer chuckled softly at your joke, and he couldn't help but smile as you rested your head on his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around you, pulling you a little closer to him, "Eternity with me, huh?" He repeated, a hint of amusement in his voice, "You sure you could handle it?"

"You sure you could handle it?" you giggled, softly pushing him down on the couch causing him to topple over into the couch. If this was anyone else he would have pushed you back immediately, tell you to not push him like that, but it was you. And you could do whatever you wanted to him. 

"Hey, hey, easy on the doctor!” Spencer protested jokingly as he fell backward into the couch. He looked up at you, a hint of playfulness in his eyes, as he sprawled out comfortably, "You're not getting rid of me that easy," he teased with a chuckle.

"Hey, hey, not easy on the doctor," you giggled again, leaning over on top of him, taking a pillow, and pretending to smother him as you climbed on top of him, straddling him. 

Spencer's heart skipped a beat as you straddled him, and he couldn't help blushing slightly at the sudden closeness of your body on top of his. His breathing hitched a little, but he tried to keep his expression playful. He pretended to struggle against you as you leaned over him with the pillow, "Hey now, watch it!” he protested, though his voice was filled with amusement.

You giggled as she pressed the pillow further into his face, "'m putting you out of your misery Doctor,"

Spencer laughed even louder, feigning resistance as you pressed the pillow further into his face, "Mercy! Mercy! I surrender!" He jokingly spoke in a dramatic tone, his voice muffled by the pillow. He tried to pull the pillow away from his face to look up at you.

Pulling the pillow off of his face, you smiled down at him, the laugh slowly dying in your throat as you realized the compromised position, “Oh.”

Spencer was panting slightly from the fake struggle, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he looked up at you. His gaze met yours and he felt a wave of heat wash over him as he fully realized your position, with you straddling him on the couch, hips pressed slightly down into him. He couldn't help but take in the sight of you on top of him, his heart racing.

"I, um… didn't realize,” you spoke quickly, your own self out of breath, panting as you began to move to get off him, "I'm sorry, shit." 

"No, no, wait., "Spencer's hand reached out quickly and gently grabbed your wrist as you tried to move off him. He swallowed, his heart racing a mile a minute. He couldn't deny the tension in the air or the way his body reacted to how close you were. This was straight out of a dream he knew he had, "Please... don't move," he whispered, his voice low.

Your breathing was heavy as you looked down at him, hair tousled and in your PJs, "Spence," you whispered, voice low. 

Spencer looked up at you, feeling his body hum with desire as he took you in. Your tousled hair, the sight of you in your PJs, it was all so real and intimate. It was domestic in nature and it made his heart do a flip. He swallowed, his eyes flickering up to meet yours. At the sound of you whispering his name, his grip on your wrist tightened just a fraction, "Yeah?” He whispered back, his own voice thick and dry. 

"Is that a gun in your pants or are you just happy to see me?" you joked, the tension still thick and palatable as it sat it the pit of your stomach.

Spencer's breath hitched at your joke, with the way he was reacting it was clear he hadn’t been touched in months. He let out a low, rumbling chuckle, the sound sending shivers down his spine. He shifted beneath you, your body still straddling him, and he could feel the weight of your body against him, the tension between you palpable, "Maybe it's both," he whispered, his voice low and thick with desire.

You breathed out, a shaky breath but still a breath, as you rocked your hips a little bit against him, desperate for friction, "I'm not a cheater," you whispered. 

Spencer's breath caught in his throat as you rocked your hips against him, and it took everything in him not to buck his hips in response. He tried to control his breathing, his body reacting to your touch almost involuntarily. He swallowed, his voice a little rougher than usual as he replied, "I know you're not. You've never been," He placed his hands on your hips, holding you in place lightly, his thumbs slowly stroking the bare skin of your waist under your shirt.

Your skin burned where his hands met your hips. It made you want to do more. It made you want to continue, a soft sigh that sounded like a moan falling from your lips, swallowing quickly as you stared down at him. 

Spencer's heart raced as you let out that small sigh, a mix of a moan, and he couldn't deny the effect it had on him. He could feel the heat building between you, the tension in the room almost tangible, "You're driving me crazy," he breathed out, his thumbs continuing to stroke your skin, his touch growing a little firmer, more possessive. His pupils were blown out, soft brown eyes looking up at you like it was you who held the universe in your hands. 

"I'm not-" you shook your head, "not doing anything," you whispered, hips grinding down slowly as you took another deep breath in. Your brain was telling you to quit while you were ahead, but every bone in your body seemed physically incapable of stopping. 

Spencer's breath hitched at the feel of your hips grinding down against him, and he involuntarily tightened his grip on your hips, his fingers digging into your soft skin. "Oh, you're doing plenty," he whispered back, his voice low and laced with barely suppressed need. "You have no idea what you're doing to me, do you?”

"No," you whispered, hands trailing up his chest as he held you, "explain it to me."

Spencer let out a ragged breath, trying to form coherent words, "You... you drive me crazy. You always have," he whispered, his voice thick with desire. "The way you look at me, talk to me, touch me..." He paused, gathering himself, before continuing. "The way you're straddling me right now, your body pressed against mine, it's... it's like you were made for me."

You closed your eyes, grinding down harder involuntarily. It was okay to dry hump your best friend, right? That didn't count as cheating, right? Your mind tried to convince yourself this was okay, that you weren’t awful, but you were spurred on by his words, your panties dampening as he held you. 

Spencer groaned as you ground down harder against him, his eyes fluttering shut for a moment before he opened them again, his gaze filled with undisguised desire, "This... we shouldn't," he managed to say, even as his hands continued to grip your hips, pulling you closer to him, his body responding without even thinking, "You're with Luke... we can't... we can't do this," his words were a whisper, but even he could hear the lack of conviction behind them.

You ground down again, in tandem with him, "You're- you're right," you panted, "maybe we should stop," your own eyes fluttered closed. 

Spencer groaned again, his grip on your hips tightening even more, his body moving in time with yours, almost involuntarily. His heart was racing, his breath coming in short, ragged bursts as he tried to slow himself down, to think clearly, "Yeah, we... we should stop," he agreed, his voice a little hoarse, but his body betrayed his words, still rocking against you, needing the friction, the closeness.

"Oh god, fuck," you groaned, eyes fluttering closed as you rocked harder, faster, "Yeah... yeah... should stop," you repeated.

"Fuck..." Spencer couldn't help but curse under his breath, his hips bucking up to meet yours with each movement, his body on fire with need. He was losing his mind, his last shred of control slipping away as he felt the heat between you growing more and more intense, "We... we need to stop... now..." he managed to breathe out, his voice barely above a whisper, his hands holding onto your hips like a lifeline, almost desperately.

"Mhm," you moaned in agreement but never stopped your movements. Instead, you continued to rock against him, ignoring how the spaghetti strap of your pajamas had started to fall off your shoulder, "So stop," you whispered, not stopping.

Spencer's eyes were fixed on the spaghetti strap that was falling off your shoulder, his brain nearly short-circuiting at the sight. He groaned, the sound almost guttural, as he tried to steady his breathing. "I'm- I'm trying, I'm trying..." He was trying, he really was, but with your body moving against him like that, your hips rocking in just the right way, he couldn't help but move with you, his body responding on autopilot.

"How hard?" you whispered, a giggle falling from your lips that turned quickly into a strangled moan, as his hands pushed your hips down into him. Spencer's grip on your hips tightened even more, his fingers digging into your skin, as he pushed you down into him. His breathing was ragged now, his body trembling with need, as he felt you against him.

"So goddamn hard," he groaned, his voice strained, as he tried to hold back. "You have no idea how hard you’re making this for me."

"I can," you panted out, "I can feel it… How hard it is for you," you giggled, eyes fluttering shut again as you gripped his shoulder. It was all him at this point, he was pulling you down into him, his hips bucking up. The friction all felt too good, too real, and you weren’t stopping. There was no way you could. 

Spencer was losing himself completely in the feeling of you against him, the sound of your voice, the way your touch burned through him. His head was spinning, his body on fire with need and desire. He pulled you down harder against him, his hips bucking up involuntarily, the friction between you sending sparks through his body. He could feel his cock twitch in his pants, as he pulled you down closer to him, "God... you feel so good," he groaned, his lips brushing against your collarbone, his breath hitched and shallow.

When his lips touched you, you gasped, a loud moan coming from your lips that sounded too much like his name.  You wanted this and you wanted it desperately. It was almost pathetic how much you wanted this.

The sound of your moan, his name on your lips, it was like a punch to the gut. Spencer's grip on your hips involuntarily tightened, his body reacting almost violently to the sound, the need in your voice. "Say it again," he groaned, his lips moving against your skin, leaving a trail of hot, hungry kisses along your collarbone. "Say my name again."

"Fuck," you hissed back a moan, "Spencer," you practically chanted, hand gripping the arm of the couch behind him as you ground together, "Spencer," you chanted again, a lot less coherent as she bit back a moan. 

Each time you said his name, it sounded like a prayer, and Spencer felt like he was losing his mind. His hips bucked up against yours as he heard it again and again, the sound sending shockwaves through his body. He buried his face in your neck, his breath coming in hot, ragged gasps as he fought to keep himself together, "God, say it again," he begged, his voice thick with need and hunger, "Please, say my name again, just like that."

"Spencer- ah, fuck," you cried out, whimpering pathetically as your body moved for you, "Spencer."

Spencer was drowning in you, in the sound of you saying his name. It was the only thing he could hear, the only thing he could focus on. He was coming undone under you, his body reacting involuntarily to your touch and your voice.

"That's it," he breathed against your skin, his lips on your neck, his body moving with yours. "Just like that, baby, just like that. Say my name, say it again."

"Spencer," you cried out as his movements picked up, as they became more aggressive. You just kept chanting it like it was the air you breathed, like it was the only word you knew. Spencer was wild with need, overwhelmed by the sound of his name falling from your lips, the feel of your body against his. He gripped your hips tightly, his fingers digging into your skin, as he pulled you down into him, moving against you with a desperate, frenzied rhythm.

"You're killing me," he groaned, his voice thick with desire and frustration. "God, you're going to kill me."

He buried his face in your neck, his lips moving against your skin, his breath hot and labored. He was losing himself completely in the moment, driven by pure need and desire, "I can't- I can't stop," he panted between kisses, his voice ragged and strained. "I need you, I need you so bad."

"Fuck, Spencer," you cried out, body almost shaking on top of him. If this was wrong, why did it feel so good?

Spencer was lost in you, undone by your words, your sounds, your touch. Your body shaking on top of him, the sound of his name falling from your lips was like a drug, addictive and potent. He clutched you tighter, his grip almost bruising, as he moved against you frantically, desperately, chasing the release that was building inside him, "That's it, that's it," he panted, his own body trembling, "Don't stop, baby, don't stop."

He felt the orgasm building inside him, a wave of pleasure and heat rolling through him, his body shaking as he pulled you down into him again and again, "Oh god, I'm- I'm gonna-"

The words were lost in a strangled moan, his body arching up off the couch as he found his release, his grip on you still tight. 

“Oh god, I’m,” you panted, crying out his name like a hymn, “I’m cumming,” you breathed out. It was all too good, like he was made for you just in this moment. 

Spencer's heart felt like it was going to burst as he heard you call his name, the sound like a prayer as your body trembled on top of him, "Yes, yes, yes," he whispered hoarsely, his arms holding you tightly against him, his own body still shaking with aftershocks from his orgasm, "That's it, baby, let go, let go for me."

Your body stopped moving, collapsing on top of him as you came undone, holding onto him like he might float away. He caught you against him as you collapsed on top of him, his body still throbbing with the aftershocks. He held you close, his arms wrapped tightly around you, his breathing ragged and labored. He nuzzled his face into your hair, his lips brushing against your skin, as he tried to slow his racing heart.

"That was... incredible," he panted, his voice still hoarse.

"That was..." your voice trailed off as you sat up quickly, realizing you were still clothed as she stood up and off the couch pathetically, "that was cheating, oh god."

Your sudden movement jerked Spencer out of his blissful state, and he looked up at you with wide eyes, his mind still fuzzy from the overwhelming pleasure, "Whoa, whoa, hey, calm down."

He sat up, his heart still racing as he reached for your hand, trying to steady you, "It's okay, it's okay, we're okay."

“No it’s not,” you whispered, pulling your hand back from him as he reached for you. It made his chest sting, but all he did was blink, “I think you should leave,” 

“What?”

“You should go, Spence,” you reiterated, eyes looking down at your feet, too embarrassed to meet his gaze.

“If that’s what you want me to do,” he spoke. His voice almost sounded broken and you didn’t like the feeling of being the one who caused it. 

“It is,” you replied quickly, arms folded across your chest. You turned away from him completely, ignoring the sound of the door slamming closed as he stepped outside.

[ayyy-imma-ninja]

"W...W-Why are you doing this...?!" Sun blinked and cocked his head, feigning the look of an innocent child. "Huh? Ohhh!" He rested an elbow in one hand, using the other to draw a circle in the air referencing the man's predicament before walking around his chair. "You mean the whole 'tying you up and torturing you' thing! Well, it's quite obvious, isn't it~?"

Sun stopped directly behind him, bending low to speak directly into the man's ear.

"For Calvin, Mr. Grisham. For Eloise. And for every child in this town who has had to suffer, because of monsters like you."

Mr. Grisham trembled in his restraints, the sweet-sounding voice of Sun now laced with sinister and utter darkness. "Please, I-"

"Did you know-!" Sun halted him, continuing his walk around the chair. He waved an arm in Moon's direction, who fluidly twirled his knife, watching the man's blood still caked on it flick about the room. "My brother and I used to take care of children? You remember the pizzeria in the big city, don't you? Well, just because we are no longer daycare attendants, that doesn't mean our roles have changed. No no no~ Our roles have simply-"

Sun stopped back in front of Mr. Grisham's chair, getting into the man's face once more. His hands, once folded behind his back now gripping the arm rests. The wood creaked and nearly gave way from his grip alone. Sun's colored irises had shrunken down to slits, rattling with a craziness just waiting to bust free. His grin nearly stretched off of the edges of his face plate. A thin, black line formed between his teeth, and grew as his seemingly permanent-closed mouth, opened.

"Evolved," he finished, the word rattling in his robotic throat and chest.

Mr. Grisham whimpered, leaning back as much as he could from the looming animatronic. He squeezed his eyes and turned his head away. "S-Stop that-!"

Two hands grabbed at his head, turning it to face forward again. Two thumbs pulled his eyelids up, forcing him to look.

"What's wrong, Mr. Grisham~? Do I frighten you~?" Sun mockingly cooed. He leaned in closer, his nose pressed against Mr. Grisham's. "Good. Take a good, long, look, Mr. Grisham. I want you feel afraid. But this fear, is NOTHING compared to the fear you have inflicted upon your own children."

Sun's grip tightened. How easily he could pop this man's head like a grape. How badly he wanted to, how eagerly he wanted this maggot dead. But no. He had to suffer first. He had to pay. Sun relished in the man's whimpering as he trembled in his hands. Hot steam puffed from Sun's ajar mouth, ghosting the man's face.

"I wonder..." he thought aloud, his mouth a dangerous number of inches from the shivering man's head, "if I can scalp you with my own teeth~"

"Sun."

The animatronic paused, his eyes flicking to his left, towards Moon. The lunar animatronic stopped twirling his knife and simply stood there, giving his twin a known look between them with a raise brow.

Quickly--too quickly--Sun composed himself and stepped away, arms and hands open in surrender. "Ahaha! Apologies, brother! I got a little carried away there, didn't I?"

A small smile etched across Moon's face as he stepped forward. He couldn't fault Sun for his...eagerness. He placed a gloved hand on his twin's shoulder. "Go sanitize your gloves and face. Remove any traces of oil and skin."

Sun playfully saluted. "On it! I'll leave you to do the honors~" He then skipped away to do as instructed.

Mr. Grisham watched him go, bewildered and outright frightened by the swift changes in personality. Suddenly, something cold and sharp under his chin directed him to look forward, and he met Moon's hooded gaze, his face illuminated by narrow blue and red pupils. His own grin had widened and opened. Mr. Grisham whimpered as the tip of the knife pressed into his chin.

"Now that Sun's had his turn...looks like it's mine again~ Try to stay awake, Mr. Grisham. It's more fun that way~"

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

:3c

@moonlit-dreamers

[hanahaki-disease]

Beyond the Farthest Reaches

Hell or High Water - Percy Jackson/Dc crossover

“She is Mother”

Summary:

Everyone needs a mother, why shouldn’t Percy?

Notes:

Set after “Talking with Razors on Your Tongue”

(A far into the future upload that can still be enjoyed without spoilers)

**********************************************

“Habibi,” Talia reached forwards, her hands cupping either side of Damian’s face as she brought him closer to place a chaste kiss on his head. Something must’ve gone well if his mother was showing affection this openly. Not even while they were in Nanda Parbat where the soldier obeyed her every command did she display her love for him with such ease. “You have grown since last I saw you.”

“Yes,” he stood straighter. “Todd confirmed my height to be five centimeters taller.”

“Wonderful,” She turned her head to the other two in the room with them.

Dick wasn’t going to let Damian see his mother alone, their animosity kept them from seeing eye to eye with each other since he was Robin all those years ago. Damian doesn’t quite understand why, but he hopes that he will get over it. If this meeting goes well, Damian will have two brothers, officially. “Jason, it is nice to see you again. How has your mission progressed? Still vying to remove the clown permanently?”

“B has him behind bars right now,” Jason grumbled. “But I know some his men that could help…move things along.”

His mother hummed in satisfaction. Damian knew that Jason was more than capable of infiltrating the asylum and disposing of the Joker, having done so on missions while under his mother’s care. But it seemed that his want of acceptance from their father, who was not present at the moment, was keeping him from completing his task. Had Jason begun his objective now, with father gone and Grayson as Batman, Damian had no doubt in his mind that the clown would have perished the first night Jason returned to Gotham.

“Who is this you have brought with you?” Talia’s green eyes shift from Jason over to Perseus, analyzing from the furthest most hair on his head to the beaten up Reeboks on his feet. How embarrassing. Damian remembers telling him to wear his Converse before they left the penthouse, at lease those were clean and the seams weren’t falling off. “He looks much like you, Jason.”

“This is Perseus, my little brother,” Jason clapped hand on his back, pushing him forward and into the scrutinizing gaze of Damian’s mother. “Biological.”

“Clearly.” Jason steps back even further as Talia circles him like prey. Her hand catches his wrist and brings his right hand forwards. “Callouses. From swords. You can fight?”

“He is exceptional, mother.” Damian walks up to her, ignoring the pointed stare Perseus sends his way. “I had challenged him to a duel upon his arrival at fathers, he was able to best me in less than two minutes with a different blade than he is accustomed too.”

She grasped his chin, turning his head in her hands to view all his features. There was a certain look in his mother’s eyes when she saw the way the light caught Perseus’s own green ones, and if Damian had not been standing beside his mother when she did it twice, Damian would have missed it.

Briefly, impercieveably so, there was a glow that lit up his irises. A soft green, like that of the glow in the dark stars Perseus placed in his room. How had Damian not noticed it before? Was it because he had grown accustomed to glowing eyes? His grandfather’s eyes glowed when he was particularly enraged, shining the exact shade of toxicity as the pits. Jason’s glowed the same color only when pit-rage consumed his mind, and his mother’s gave a soft luminescence in the dark. Enough to notice they were there, but not enough to clearly see it.

But Perseus’s were quick flashes, gone as soon as they appeared in a color he had never seen before? He can’t recall his eyes glowing before his disappearance, so maybe this was something of a recent development.

“What is your blade of choice?” Talia released his chin and walked back to her seat.

“Greek Xiphos,” Perseus answered.

“Rather strange choice, not many exist in the world outside the realm of the Amazonians, no? I can’t recall a location or organization that uses those as it’s primary weapon,” Talia pointed out. “No matter. I shall test your abilities. See if they are as…exceptional, as my son says.”

“Woah, wait, I didn’t sign up for this,” Perseus argues as Jason hooks his arms around the older boy’s neck. “Jay! Jay! Let go.”

“Can’t, jellyfish, better to just do as she says now and ask questions later,” Jason laughs before dropping him on one of the training mats in the adjoining room. “And besides, you gonna pass up an opportunity to fight me?”

“No.” Perseus stole the wakizashi from Jason’s hand and discarded his sweater, tossing it onto the floor behind him. “How hard to do I go?” He looked to where Damian and Talia stood at the edge of the mat, their arms crossed over their chest like a mirror. His reflexes were quick to block the downwards attack Jason had begun with.

“Full send!” Jason yelled as he charged his younger brother.

Damian had to contain the giddiness building inside him as he watch the two spar. The clashing of their swords ringing like bell tolls in the quiet of the room. He had never seen the two of them fight before, Jason either went against father or Grayson and Perseus against Cassandra or Drake. Keeping to their weight-classes it seemed., but the spar before him was nothing short of legendary.

Jason was akin to a bull. Heavy attacks and devastating blows that on a lesser opponent would render them wounded, unarmed, or even dead. His feet were light despite his size, following the paths and placements that every assassins in the league had been taught and memorized. His left heel sliding back into sixth position to keep his balance with attack pattern twenty-three, the weight distributed on the balls of his right foot but not enough to hinder a quick change of position or dodge.

His brother, however, was that of a snake, which, Damian hoped, his mother approved of. Slashes instead of stabs, his grip on the blade one-handed but no less weak as he stood strong with the shorter blade. Normally, people choose the longer weapons, using the extra length to aid in keeping their attacks swift and straight, as well as keeping a good distance from one’s attacker.

Perseus did not keep a good distance.

He kept himself as close as he could with the wakizashi, performing techniques Damian had never seen nor heard of before. And neither had his mother if her slitted eyes were anything to go by. His foot falls were light, his stance low, and his weight balanced between both feet as he moved wildly around his older brother. Damian tried to predict Perseus’s next moves based on what he has done already, but no matter how he believes the boy will go, he always does something completely different.

For instance, Perseus had two opportunities to knock Jason down. Once when his right flank was left unguarded and he could have placed a swift kick to bring him to his knees, instead he ducked below the horizontal slash of Jason’s katana and butted the handle into his sternum. The other was when Jason switched his hold on the blade from a two-handed, blade-forward position to a left-handed, blade-backwards hold to forced a more hand-to-hand combat approach. Even then, Perseus kept himself close and threaded his sword in the gap between Jason’s sword and his arm, twisting it out of his grasp.

It was useless and Jason simply reached for it with his right hand and continued to fight, but it was the fact that Damian had never known of a maneuver like that. It was surely taught to him by the demigod camp, the Greek style of fighting, while disciplined like the Leagues, was more open to improvisation and prioritized fluidity between attacks. He wondered if Perseus could take him to the camp to train him, after all, Damian can see through the mist. It is only fair.

“What are your intentions on bringing Perseus to my attention, Damian?” His mother sat on the provided seat, legs crossed beneath her, heels above the floor to preserve the blade on the inside. “I can’t imagine it is to merely show off one of your father’s many strays.”

He turned to face his mother, hand in fists as his sides, attention shifting from the spar. “Perseus has no mother. She died early in his childhood, and seeing as how you consider Jason as a son, I thought you might consider Perseus as well.”

“You think me your father? Collecting children into my care?” Talia hummed.

Damian bowed his head, eyes wide and slightly fearful. “Apologies, mother, I did not mean to insinu—”

“I would say that…if I was not impressed with Perseus,” She cut him off and lifted Damian’s chin so that he would look at her. “You are correct, his abilities are something I have not yet seen before. Parts of it he has gotten from your father and are hard to break, see how Jason’s right foot swivels before he lunges? Both he and Perseus does it, as does Timothy, Richard, and your father. But there are maneuvers not even I have seen, and I have seen much.”

“So you will take Perseus into deliberation as your son?” Damian asked. He didn’t want to get his hopes up, but the way his mother was studying the spar wasn’t helping the fluttering of his heart in his chest.

She didn’t respond, only stood up from her seat and waltzed into the fray and ended it. Jason, stayed on the ground, sweat dripping from his brow and his chest heaving for breath. The katana fell to the floor, as did Jason, along with a string of out of breath curses. It had been a while since Damian had seen Jason extorted from training. Which was never. Yes, he developed a sweat and his breathing grew labored, but never to this extent. Perhaps it was like this when he trained under Ducra? The woman was mad and like to push people to their limits.

Perseus wasn’t fairing much better, it seemed, but his composure was kept under his mother’s stare. She once more ran her eyes over him, stopping at his beaded necklace. Talia took hold of the first bead in her fingers, lifting it off his shirt to inspect it before continuing to his face. The sweat didn’t deter her in pushing back the bangs that clung to his skin or from placing her hand against his cheek, thumbing over the small slice from Jason’s blade on his cheek.

It was a gesture Damian knew was her preferred way to show affection to him and Jason, a motherly caress of the cheek to wipe away any tears, blood, or just because. Damian allowed himself to smile from where he stood, but never to walk over. Not until his mother allowed him.

“You cater to my appearance more than your brother does,” Talia said as her thumb did one last wipe over his cheek. “Perhaps we could convince that reporter of the Gazette that you are of my blood as well. What do you think, Jason?”

“You—” Jason gulped the air like a fish from where he collapsed. “You lost the custody battle for us…gave up rights for Damian. Wanted to visit.”

“Must you be so dramatic for a ruse?” Talia crossed her arms over her chest.

“It’s my job.”

Turning back to Perseus, the corners of her mouth tilted upwards. Not a full smile as Damian’s mother only did so when under cover, but enough to show that she had come to a conclusion. “You will address me as ‘mother’ from now on, Perseus. Damian is now your brother in addition to Jason, train him and protect him as you would have if he was blood.

“You are one of mine, now.” She linked a little charm onto the necklace he wore from the bracelet she never removed. It was hard to tell which one it was but Damian was certain it showed that he was an al Ghul in all but blood, just the same as Jason was. (Jason had an earring with the al Ghul crest on it, but he hardly wore it. Not want it to be lost or stolen, but he did wear an emerald stud on certain days.) “Should you be in need of aid, shelter, or men to follow your lead, I will provide. If you should forsake Bruce and the path he wishes to lead you on, I will be there to offer others. You are an al Ghul now, a grandson of the demon head, a spare in line for the throne, a prince of the League of Assassins.”

She placed her hands beside on his cheeks like she had done for Damian when they first arrive. “You are my son, and I will always cherish my children.”

**********************************************

Thank you so much to @keitria for inspiring this little installment!!!

Series Masterlist | Masterlist

[kittenfangirl20]

*it all started when one of the children of Heaven had asked Adam to remove his helmet, he knelt down and removed the helmet which caused the child to smile, at the same time one of the angels who insisted Adam always wear the helmet walked by, he looked at the first human in disgust and dragged him from the child and threw him into one of the rooms*

The Angel: What was that for, I told you to keep the helmet on at all times.

Adam: Why? The child just wanted to see what I looked like.

*the angel grabbed Adam hard enough to make him cry out in pain and threw him in front of a mirror forcing Adam to look at his face, he didn’t look like how a resident of Heaven was supposed to look with multiple piercings and dark circles under his eyes, God indulged the first man saying that he had a right to express himself, but the angel was horrified that the first man would taint his body like this, he even once heard that Adam wanted to try out makeup before he put a stop to it*

The Angel: Repeat after me “You are deformed.”

*Adam broke down sobbing at his reflection*

Adam: I am deformed.

The Angel: “And you are ugly.”

Adam: And I am ugly.

The Angel: No one in Heaven wants to look at your vile visage, Heaven is paradise and looking at you makes people sick. Now put that helmet back on and never remove it ever again.

*Adam sobbed as he picked up the helmet and put it on again even though they could no longer see the tears falling from Adam’s eyes both could still hear him sobbing, after that moment only Eve could get him to remove his helmet was when they were alone in their home, after that the helmet was permanently removed from Adam’s face in public when Lucifer punched him in the fight, the angel who insulted Adam received a note from a mystery angel asking him to meet him in the same room where he forced Adam to wear the helmet at all times, but when he opened the door a pair black hands with claws grabbed the wrists of the angel and dragged him into the room, the angel was now face to face with Lucifer Morningstar, the King of Hell*

Lucifer: The only deformed and ugly being I see here is you.

*the only reason why Lucifer would be here was if God allowed him to come to Heaven, the screams of the angel then filled the room, later Sera was called to the room long after Lucifer had left, the room was smeared in gold blood, guts, and other limbs, at the same time Lucifer was returning to Hell and he walked over to Adam who was sleeping, he pulled Adam into his arms and let him sleep with his head on his chest, Lucifer saw the memory of that disgusting angel who hurt Adam and he knew that he had to kill him*

[florathegnarpian]

ROBLOX WCUE (Warrior Cats Ultimate Edition) CULT THING >:)

THE VOID CULT (aka The Dark Forest Cult)

Info under cut!:

(*tags some mututals* @storythesilly @thesillyandroid @r0ck-eat3r @cornflowerblue10)

What does this cult do?

This cult does NOT interrupt roleplays or serious conversations. The thing we do specifically as a whole group is simply go up to specs and stare at them or circle them. There isn't much else to explain, however there are still rules that apply to this group that are a mix of not getting banned or voided (VOIDED: An out-of-rp term for "ignored," except due to a severe annoyance or interruption.) and just plain common sense. (See: "Group Rules" and "Consequences")

How to join the cult:

Message me your roblox username and what days you can join sessions on. This is strictly going to be done on tumblr.

Design a cat (original designs do not require any badges or gamepasses.) based on whatever role you want, but make sure that the role isn't taken by asking me. (See: "List of Roles")

Make sure that when participating in sessions in-game that your name is set to whatever emoji corresponds with your role.

List of Roles:

Fringestar (🦴) (Permanently claimed by me) - Black-furred tom with a ragged pelt, orange eyes, and a throat wound.

Needleshade (⛓️) - Black-furred tom with a spiky pelt, blood red paws and red eyes.

Raggedleg (🥀) - Black she-cat with green eyes and a blood red right front paw.

Pouncepaw (🌹) - Black tom with green eyes and a blood red stomach.

Darkgorse (🌑) - Fully black she-cat with white eyes. Carries 🌫️.

Breezekit (🌫️) - Fully black kit with white eyes & every possible wound selection. Carried by 🌑.

Group Rules:

This is a set of rules that must be followed at all times.

1: Do NOT raid groups of people (or even just one person) roleplaying or having a serious conversation. This is merely common sense. (You can go up to people roleplaying to compliment their morph or any other non-cult interaction.)

2: If someone is uncomfortable with you or the group in general staring at or circling them, leave them alone.

3: Obviously, don't make any remarks even slightly inappropriate. This can be suggestiveness, swearing, or anything else that breaks roblox rules. This also includes wcue heat (*GAGS VIOLENTLY*) and bypassing the roblox chat filter. Remember, just because roblox lets you say or do it doesn't mean you're allowed to. (Replacement curse words or insults from the Warrior Cats books (Mouse-brain, Fox-dung, etc.) however, are not against the rules.)

4: As if this wasn't obvious, don't be rude. Do I even need to explain what being rude is? (Is isn't rude to leave the group due to disliking it. Unless you make rude remarks.)

Consequences:

I keep track of every punishment given in my notes.

Breaking a rule other than rules 3 and 4 gives you a warning. You only get three warnings. (There may be exceptions, but don't test that.)

If you break the same rule again, you'll be kindly asked to not join any other sessions for that day.

If you break that same rule yet again, you'll be asked to not return to any future sessions unless later said otherwise.

If you break rule 3, you'll be asked not to return to any sessions that day.

Breaking rule 3 again will prevent you from being part of any future sessions. (If you completely convince the group that you didn't know what the thing you said meant, you may possibly be allowed back in depending on my verdict.)

Breaking rule 4 gives you a warning. You only get one warning. (Very VERY few exceptions might be made, but don't test your luck.)

Breaking rule 4 again will remove you from participation in sessions for the day, and breaking it again will remove you from the current session and the next 3 sessions after.

[ohmyronpa-imagines]

The last anon read my mind lol. Is it alright if I request the same thing with Fuyuhiko, where reader is trying to escape someone killing them and he saves them?

Man, y'all sure do love your near-death experiences. Nothing wrong with that though, I like writing them! Thank you for the request, Anon! - Mod Hajime

Fuyuhiko Saving You From A Murder Attempt

There was no reason for you to even be outside at a time like this.

But it was so hard to believe you had been trapped on a remote island and were now part of a killing game. Didn’t that sort of stuff only happen in fiction?

Still, despite Monokuma telling you all that your cabins were safe, you didn’t trust them.

You especially didn’t trust yours, if the broken lock was anything to go off.

Thinking ahead into the future, you didn’t tell anyone your door was busted. That would’ve made it too easy.

Though, being outside made you easy prey as well. There wasn’t a motive to kill yet, but wasn’t being trapped on an island a good enough reason?

Suddenly feeling nervous, you stood up. Long gone was the desire for peace within Jabberwock Park.

Without missing a beat, you ran back to your cabin, your adrenaline making it easier to handle running for such a long distance.

You opened your door and shut it behind you, letting out a long sigh. Nothing had happened today, not even a little spat between your classmates had occurred. So that meant there was peace, right?

You shuffled to the bathroom and stared at yourself in the mirror. Dark circles were forming under your eyes and your expression had turned into a permanent frown. Well, that was to be expected, considering you hadn’t slept properly in days.

The silence in your cabin was interrupted by the sound of your doorknob jiggling. Your useless lock audibly popped and the door creaked open.

If you shut your bathroom door now, you’d be discovered for sure. You tucked yourself into the corner, hoping the lack of light would you from the intruder’s vision.

Unfortunately, your efforts didn’t work. The intruder’s hand shot out and grabbed your arm, yanking you out of your hiding spot.

A shout ripped from you when you felt a sharp pain in your side. You looked down to see the handle of an ice pick sticking out of you.

With adrenaline pumping through you, you delivered a strong punch to your attacker, knocking them into your dresser. A little Monokuma plush hit the floor from the impact, bouncing against their leg.

Suddenly, you were very aware of the metal in your abdomen. You caught yourself on your dresser and staggered towards the door.

Blood roared in your ears when you heard the attacker getting up. You had to get out of there immediately.

The door slammed behind you and you stumbled across the docks, unsure of where you were. Everything was spinning and you felt like your dinner was about to make a second debut.

Your head knocked against a solid piece of wood. It cleared the heat in your ears so you did it again. You continued for an unknown amount of time, barely aware of an obscure figure walking towards you.

Without warning, the cool wood was removed from your head, sending you to the floor and the mystery person fleeing.

“What the fuck?” You heard someone talking. The voice was familiar, but your head was too full of melted butter to process it. Instead, you responded with a groan.

Trying to remember how to stand, you held your hands out to push yourself up, but the ice pick was making it hard to move. You struggled to find the pick and gripped it, ready to pull it out.

“Don’t do that, you dumbass!” A soft hand smacked yours away and you were quickly pulled into a bright, much warmer room.

A pretty face was in front of you and the person waved their hand in front of you. “Hey! Look at me! Don’t you dare die right now!” You squinted.

Pink cheeks, freckles, long eyelashes, and a mean snarl.

“Fuyuhiko?” You mumbled, struggling to pick an eye to look at.

He huffed, “Yeah, it’s me. What the hell happened to you?”

“Stabbed? I think.” You looked down at the ice pick and reached for it again, only to be stopped by Fuyuhiko again.

He held your hands down and ordered you to stay still and lay on the ground. The yakuza disappeared for a moment until he returned with a pair of scissors, a rag, bandages, and a bottle of rubbing alcohol. 

“Gonna take it out?” You whispered, focusing on his face, specifically a freckle on his cheek.

He didn’t respond. Instead, he cut the fabric around the knife and pulled your shirt up, opening the rubbing alcohol. He was looking for something, but you didn’t know what.

You groaned when a stinging sensation erupted on your sternum. “Don’t move, you have a cut here.”

“What about the other one?” You asked, pointing at your plugged stab wound.

“If I pull it out you’ll bleed out. Can you shut the fuck up now?” He grumbled and wrapped your cut in the bandages.

Fuyuhiko sighed and dragged you over to his bed. When he realized he couldn’t carry you, he threw his pillows and blanket on the floor. He laid down next to you, quiet, but watching you.

Each rise and fall of your chest could be the last, and he didn’t want someone dead in his room.

He didn’t want to see anyone die for that matter.

You were one lucky bastard. Knocking on his door after getting attacked wasn’t easy, to add to that, you had an ice pick completely lodged in your body. He wanted to ignore it, but hearing the knocks get progressively slower made the pit in his stomach grow.

When he opened the door he was expecting something worse, but having you fall at his feet was worse. Not to mention the suspicious shadow that crept away when he opened his door. What would’ve happened if he hadn’t opened the door?

Did you even realize you were dying?

He looked over at you to check and let out a sigh of relief, seeing you still breathing. He just had to wait for the sun to rise then he could grab Mikan to get the ice pick out of you.

Hopefully you could make it for two more hours. He glanced at the clock, reading 5:00. “You really are a lucky motherfucker.” He let out a half chuckle.

He reached his hand to hold onto yours and squeezed it.

He was just checking your pulse, that was all.

[felixsfishnets]

JUST THIS ONCE - CH. 2 (18+) E

Xander x Spike

The aftermath of Xander and Spike's... confrontation, how things played out differently in the finale of season 6.

AO3 link for chapter 1 and tags

Xander caught himself running his fingers over the fading mark on his neck. A habit which he had formed since the wound had been inflicted upon him.

In moments where his thoughts would get away from him, his fingers would drift up to his neck and slowly circle the now faded pink bite marks. Spike had never reappeared after dumping Xander on the porch of the Summers’ house. Thankfully that gave him the freedom to concoct what ever story he’d liked without having to worry about lining up the details with the vampire. Or worse yet, telling the truth. He’d told his group of concerned friends that a bunch of vampires jumped the pair in the alley and Spike was forgiving enough to save Xander, even after dealing him a few solid blows moments earlier, and leave him somewhere safe.

Buffy wondered why Spike didn’t stick around to make sure that Xander was alright, but when he reminded her of the fight that had broken out mere moments before, she understood.

Unsure why he felt the need to defend Spike, to make him look like the good guy in this story. Xander knew he couldn’t exactly tell the truth. Not now, not like this. It would be too messy, raise too many questions. Mostly it would just make the night’s events real, permanent, like the wound on his neck.

The girls had all been kind enough to back off, believe his story without much question and let him process. Dawn had given him a glass of water and some chocolate when he awoke.

"For the blood loss," she smiled hopefully. "And the comforting factor."

Willow had gently removed his shoes and his jacket from his battered form. Buffy had thrown a blanket over him and Tara was burning some healing incense. They were surprised of course, and a bit confused. Normally, Xander would be pissed, ready to hunt down the vampires who had attacked him. Dismissing Spike even after he had saved his life, excusing his mercy as a way to get to Buffy. But they knew something was off when he seemed distant. He was all mumbles and glassy eyes.

Willow had departed from their circle around the couch to fetch some medical supplies from the bathroom upstairs. As she opened the cabinet under the sink, the front door of the Summers’ home burst open. There was yelling and then… Gunfire. Five shots.

Bang.

Bang.

Bang. Bang.

Bang.

By the time she had reached the bottom of the stairs she caught a glimpse of the familiar black van speeding away. When she turned towards the couch, she saw her friends collapsed into a heap. Blood painting the walls and soaking into the carpet.

What happened next was a flurry of magicks and grief and rage. Jonathan and Andrew had escaped the Witch’s fury but Warren was not so lucky. It was Xander who had managed to pull his childhood friend from the brink.

When he saw the gun, he dove in front of the girls to protect them. The first bullet caught him in the shoulder. Dawn had been hit in the leg, Buffy in the chest and Tara in the stomach.

Willow had seen, thought she had seen, her friends murdered. Her family ripped away from her in an instant. But when Xander had caught up to her, wobbly and with one arm in a sling he talked her down. They’d all be fine. He’d joked about how she needed a bullet wound to match theirs.

Then, Giles had arrived from England unexpectedly. Willow’s outpouring of dark magic had alerted a local coven who had sent him. He took Willow back to that coven with him, kicking himself for leaving them so selfishly. Determined to see the girl regain control.

Tara joined Willow at the coven when she was healed up well enough to travel. She felt responsible for pushing Willow to quit cold turkey instead of helping her regain control. They spent their days with the coven meditating and communing with the Earth. Deepening their understanding of their power.

That left Buffy, Xander and Dawn in Sunnydale to recover and pick up the pieces of their shattered group. Buffy recovered the quickest, of course, mortal wounds and being close to death were no stranger to a Slayer. Especially Buffy.

Xander was almost grateful for the distraction, how it took his mind away from alleys and bleach blond vampires. Nobody had mentioned the night they found him on the porch since. He threw his energy into Dawn and Buffy, fixing up their house, dropping Dawn off to school, patrolling, grocery shopping. What ever he could do, he was always there for them. Though he still had trouble looking Buffy in the eye.

[fuzedatti]

IX. Infertile

───── ❝ 𝐀𝐧 𝐒𝐂𝐏 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐞 ❞ ─────

Masterlist

CW ; suggestive

──────────────────

—See this part here? It is called the frontal lobe, it is in charge of voluntary movement.

The older man had a severed head in his hands, the fresh and recently dissected brain was arranged by parts on the metal table.

—The Pestilence must be there, if they don't move they are cured.– Said the little doctor pinching the pink tissue.

—Wrong, the Pestilence is human mortality, they are cured by not dying, that is what we are looking for.

With a scalpel, he cut the area to continue inspecting it closely. The patient suffered from intense mood swings, this was caused by abnormalities on the tissue, resulting in sudden errarthic behaviors in the person. He let the minor get closer to make an incision for himself, surprisingly he was able to do it without any problem, he showed that he was capable of being a doctor just like him, he just needed to change his technique.

—Fascinating, SCP-049-J, maybe you have talent after all.

—My name is Junior dear mother.

—For the last time I'm not-

—Hello family!– The mask entered the house with great encouragement and joy. Leaving his hat on the rack next to his briefcase, he went straight to Louis to kiss him with great love and hold his "son" and turn to the invisible camera. —I love my life.–

—You haven't stop acting like a fool since you adapted the personality of those characters on that strange device.

Dýo's new body belonged to a bussiness with a perfect wife and daughter. Now that they were all dead, the entities took the opportunity to usurp their home, anyway, they lived in the middle of nowhere and far from the city. The county of Pennsylvania had been their refuge for these weeks, their plan was to go to New York and camouflage until they reached Canada and settle in indefinitely. It had been a long time since they had heard about the foundation, if possible, they wanted to come to Italy to settle permanently and live as "normal" as possible.

Dýo pushed Louis aside to crouch down to Junior's level. —Hey champ, why don't you go play outside for a while? Me and your mother have to talk about adult things.–

—But I'm a doc-

—Yes, yes, I love you too son, now go away.

He kicked the little boy out. Now alone, the mask grabbed his lover by the waist, slowly pulling him closer as it whispered something in its native language. With his hand he gently removed the doctor's mask, revealing his face. Seriously, he would never get tired of seeing and adoring him. It made him weak, very weak.

—Stop calling me mother,– He muttered annoyed. —I don't like it.–

—Ow, but it does sound so beautiful on you.– He caressed the lower part of his chest, brushing his ribs.

—Meská...

That name made him stop, if he was upset. He moved his hands to his back, making circles with it.

—How many times have I begged you for forgiveness? It'll make me soft, you make me soft...– His breath felt warm on his now uncovered neck. —Forgive me, I won't do it again, you can also be his father.–

—It is enough for me.

The clothing under his cloak was scant. Just a turtleneck and simple pants of the same dark tone. It was no problem for his partner to get rid of them easily, now, with only his heeled boots on, he lay exposed to the world. And his world was his God and his God was Dýo.

—Eons have passed since I've seen you like this αγάπη μου, you're as sublime as the day we lost each other.– The words took control over his being, allowing himself to be totally manipulated by him. The thespian undressed him without taking his eyes off of him, the body had turned out to be much more resistant than the others and it still had all its functions well preserved.

It is as if they were inside a fantasy, the outside world disappeared around them, leaving them only with the melody of a violin. Human mortality was not compatible with their fusion, with the way they loved to procreate. Leaving aside binarisms or categories, it was a dance between them, between incompatibles.

The way Dýo touched his lover was romantic, leaving him in spasms. When you are loved, you love back, and you never stop loving. No matter how bizarre their bodies were, or how indecent they got, they enjoyed each other. The manhood fit perfectly inside the womb, infertile, withered.

—Let me please you, tell me what you want, my love; Tell me your desires, tell me how you feel.–

—Teach me to love, Dýo.

His hands clenched his forearm, which supported his slender legs. His sweaty forehead glistened with fury, just as his body turned reddish. He collided with his lips repeatedly, panting with excitement.

—Nicéphore, oh Nicephore... Tell me, have I been good? Have I been a good lover, a good God to you?– He groaned. —Have I made you cry, more than I have now?–

—You kept me warm in the summer, and cool in the winters. For me, it's all I need, mon seigneur et maitre.

And in a flash of inspiration, the seed was planted, where a tree will never grow but roots. Roots of union, roots of love. Both bodies embraced to never let go. Polonoí planted sweet kisses on his partner's face, letting him rest. Louis felt his eyes heavy, letting the weight of the mask take over him, he adjusted his body to let himself fall.

The floor was cold and the wood rough. For some reason, he felt bad about what he has just done just a few seconds later. He observed his hands then Dýo, who was now sitting looking at a point in nothing. His neck was sore as were his hips. He was not made for this, he was not made to endure. He ran the tips of his fingers through his pelvis, feeling a old bite mark; Other marks were on his body, on his shoulders, thighs, and chest.

Wanting to formulate words, he just let out a breath and started crying. His sobs were low, his lungs were failing to breathe properly, and more than anything, his heart was beating at abnormal rates. Louis' old body couldn't take these adrenaline-filled situations anymore, he just felt miserable, disgusting.

—What's wrong Louis?" Have I done something bad again?

—I want to rest but my legs ache and my elbows are in agony...

The entity took pity on him, taking him carefully to carry him to the bedroom. The house was small but that walk felt eternal, the silent suffering in Louis's gaze violently stabbed Dýo's consciousness. He left the afflicted body on the mattress, adorned between sheets, outlined his lugubrious figure.

—If I hurt you or was rough, tell me.

—Dýo, I promise you that you didn't do anything, on the contrary, you showed me your love...– He wasn't looking into his eyes, maybe he was lying. —It's just, I feel guilty for having done it.–

—Guilty of what? You shouldn't mourn something that has yet to be dead.

Dýo's anguished face didn't improve, somehow he felt that it was his fault but he didn't know how to avoid it. He sat on the opposite side of his lover and leaned back. For a few moments they remained silent, speaking to each other between sighs. For a few moments the plague doctor was able to sleep.

[ayurvedasifa]

Effective Home Remedies for Dark Circles

Before considering more invasive treatments, several home remedies can help reduce the appearance of dark circles. These remedies are simple, cost-effective, and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. How to Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes Permanently

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to the eyes can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Use a chilled spoon, a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth, or a cold gel mask for 10-15 minutes daily.

Cucumber Slices

Cucumbers have natural astringent properties and can lighten the skin. Place chilled cucumber slices on your eyes for about 10 minutes. This can help refresh and rejuvenate the under-eye area.

Tea Bags

Tea bags, especially those containing caffeine, can help reduce dark circles. Soak tea bags in warm water, then chill them in the refrigerator. Place them on your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes. The caffeine helps constrict blood vessels, reducing dark shadows.

Potato Slices

Potatoes contain natural bleaching agents that can lighten the skin. Cut a potato into thin slices, chill them, and place them over your eyes for about 10 minutes.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Wearing sunglasses and a hat can also shield the delicate skin around your eyes from sun damage.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can help improve skin health and reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage the skin and contribute to the formation of dark circles. Reducing or eliminating these habits can improve your skin's appearance.

[earth-ambassador-jim]

Lost Souls: Story 15

Learning from History  

Lost Souls Summary: Merlin awakens early from his  sleep. He decides  that he doesn’t want to leaving anything to chance  and kidnaps the young  James Lake Jr. to began training his Trollhunter  as early as possible.

Barbara  is  determined to hunt down the man who kidnapped her son. In her  efforts  to get her son back she finds a strange old radio that speaks to  her in  a woman’s voice. The radio leads her to an underground society  of  shapeshifters.

Mother and son meet again years later as strangers on opposing sides.

AO3 - Fanfiction

~~~~

~~~~

The loud whistle of the teapot sings through the air. Nancy hums as she took it of the stove and turns off the burner. She pours it into her chipped blue and white china teapot and sets the timer for five minutes. A glance out the window confirms that Barbara is on her third lap of the cul-de-sac. She should be in talking distance just a little after the timer goes off.

Still humming Nancy opens the oven to check on the cherry pie. Perfect! The edges have just turned a pleasant golden brown. She puts on her oven mitts and sets it on the counter to cool.

Now she just needs to set the table and she’ll be ready for company!

The timer goes off and Nancy removes the teabag and transfers to pot to the table. She glances at the clock. Toby and the Scotts will be having dinner right now so she doesn’t need to worry about being interrupted.

Nancy opens to the door to find Barbara standing at the door with her fist raised. They stare at each other for a moment before Barbara lowers it with a resigned expression.

“You saw me walking up and down the road… Didn’t you.”

Nancy nods.

Barbara sighs.

“Mind if I come in?” She asks slowly.

She doesn’t quite look Nancy in the eyes. Instead her gaze is constantly traveling. Observing all her surroundings. She reminds Nancy of some of the soldiers she’d met: men who’d been fighting so long they’d forgotten how to relax.

“Of course,” She says, standing to the side.

Barbara enters lightly. Like the last time, her eyes scan the room before her shoulders loosen ever so slightly.

They make their way to the kitchen and Nancy pours them each a cup of tea. While Barbara studies her tea and slice of pie, Nancy studies her. The scar curving up her jaw, just in front of her ear, is surprising as before. Nancy would still really like to ask how she got it. The dark circles under her eyes seem to be as permanently etched into her face as the wrinkles of her brow. Her red hair, pulled into a low bun, is lank and streaked with grey.

In a word she looks weary.

As she’s watching, Barbara swirls the tea in her cup, sniffs it, and then takes the tiniest taste -not even a sip- before setting it back down on the saucer.

She glances up and blinks when she sees Nancy looking at her. After a pause she awkwardly forces a smile onto her face. It looks more like a grimace.

“So how have you been?” She asks.

Nancy stares back at her and raises an eyebrow.

“I’ve been well, dearie,” She answers and then waits.

Barbara’s hands twitch around the tea cup before one of them creeps up to toy with the chain of the yellow pendant around her neck. She holds Nancy’s gaze for a moment longer before looking away. The plastic smile slides off her face. The sunlight that shines through the kitchen window warms Nancy’s back but stops just shy of Barbara’s fingers.

Nancy eats a bite of her pie and is pleased to find that she got the sweetness to tartness ratio just right. She washes it down with a sip of tea, enjoying the earthy taste of the blackberry nettle combination.

“I…” Nancy looks up at Barbara’s voice.

The red-haired woman is still not looking at her. She’s holding her tea-cup in her hands and staring into it as if it holds all the secrets of the world.

“What,” Barbara frowns and her brows furrow further. “What would you do if you every time you tried to fix things you just made them worse?” Her gaze flicks up for a moment and then back down. “Would you keep trying?”

Ah.

Nancy hums. Taking another sip of her tea as she digests the question.

“When I was a young girl,” She starts. “I lived in Germany.”

She gazes across the room at a black and white picture on the wall. Her vision blurs a bit as she lets herself slip past it into memory.

“Things were hard but I loved my home and my friends and my country but then… then things changed. The Nazis rose to power.”

Barbara looks up sharply, blue eyes finally settling on Nancy’s face.

“I didn’t know a lot at the time, but I didn’t like what I was hearing and seeing. The things they taught us as school made my stomach sick.

“Now it just so happened that my father was someone important. He was important enough that they didn’t ship him off to fight in the war like all my friends’ dads. Rather people would come and meet at our house.

“One day, one of our servants was arrested for spying on one of father’s meetings. As he was dragged off a paper fell out of his pocket. I took it and eventually figured out that the strange figures on it were code for a meeting spot.”

A proud smile tugs at Nancy’s lips.

“I always was good at puzzles. To cut a long story short I was able to meet his contact. They were very wary of me, but I convinced to give me a chance.” In hindsight she’d nearly gotten herself killed approaching the foreign spies. “For two years a listened in on my father’s meetings and carried information to them.”

Nancy frowns and takes a sip of her tea.

“What happened then?” Barbara asks when she doesn’t continue.

“Then I got caught,” Nancy sighs and sets her cup down. “You have to understand that I was young at the time. I was only 14 when I started and well… my judgement wasn’t always the best. I wasn’t as careful as I should have been.

“The men who worked with my father had realized there was a leak and started searching for clues. They found one of my papers. I’d hidden it under my parents’ mattress thinking they’d never look there.”

Nancy takes a slow breath in and holds it for a count before releasing it.

“They thought it was my Mom. They dragged her away as I yelled and screamed that it was really me.”

It had been the only time her father had struck her.

“They didn’t believe that a little girl could have done it.” Or perhaps they realized her father would be willing to sacrifice her Mom and figured that was enough of a lesson for her. “I never saw her again.”

Barbara flinches at that.

“She never claimed innocence, even though she must have known it was me. She just let them take her.”

The last thing she’d said as she was being dragged out the door was “I’m sorry.” Many other memories had faded with time, but Nancy could still hear her quiet voice and see her steady gaze as if it had just happened yesterday.

“I wasn’t able to spy after that. I’m certain my father also knew it was really me. There were no more opportunities and I suddenly was signed up for a dozen new activities with the League of German Girls.” Her nose wrinkles in disgust at the memory.

“It took me years to forgive myself for what happened to my Mom. Years to realize that while my actions might have led to her death, it was the Nazis who were at fault for it.”

She glances up and finds Barbara staring at her.

“I wish my Mom hadn’t taken the fall for me, but I don’t regret working as a spy. It would have been far worse to know that I had lived turning my back on what was happening in that house.”

She downs the last swallow of tea and picks up her fork to work on her pie.

She makes it about half way through before Barbara apparently realizes she’s done talking.

“Thank you for telling me,” Barbara says quietly.

Nancy nods without looking up.

The clock ticks five minutes away before the cuckoo pops out to announce that it’s 6’o clock.

Nancy glances up at it. At the distance the hands are fuzzy and hard to make out.

“Toby-pie should be home soon,” She says.

Barbara hums and then stands up.

“I need to be going,” She says.

She pauses there for a moment.

“Do you mind if I take this with me?” She waves her hand toward her untouched piece of pie.

Nancy smiles.

“Of course, dear! Let me get that wrapped up so it doesn’t make a mess in your vehicle.”

Barbara meet her eyes and small, but genuine smile, curves her lips.

“Thank you,” She says.

~~~~

Barbara clears a place on her cluttered kitchen table to set the plastic wrapped plate of pie before bonelessly collapsing into the chair. Absently she runs her hand across her hair.

What now?

Nancy’s story lingers in the back of her mind. There are things there that she’s not quite ready to think about but it still serves to give Barbara her answer. She can’t keep living the way she has but if she’s going to meddle again she needs to take some precautions.

Barbara gets up and walks a slow careful circuit around the table. Books clutter every available surface. A few have even made it onto the bed. There is a basket for dirty clothes and one for clean. She’s given up on folding them. It’s too much effort. Take-out boxes are stacked in the kitchen. The small Janus Order studio doesn’t look much different from her apartment back during med school. Well at least how it looked before she had…

Barbara shakes her head and takes a slow shuttering breath.

She focuses on the nearest book and reads the title -“A Dictionary of Runes”- before moving on to the next. The book she’s looking for isn’t in one of the kitchen cabinets or on the table or stacked on the chair by the door.

Barbara frowns and adjusts her glasses. She hopes it’s not in her office. She doesn’t want to go in there right now.

As a last ditch she lowers herself to her knees by her bed. She lifts the comforter that has half fallen onto the floor and grimaces. There is so much dust under there that the ground looks like it has a down coat. With a flick of her fingers and a muttered word Barbara directs a gust of wind under the bed.

The dust is dispersed into the air. Barbara immediately starts coughing and sneezing. She quickly rushes to the bathroom and turns on the fan. Through watering eyes she looks around and tries to remember if she has a vacuum. She doesn’t.

She debates on the merits of waiting for the dust to settle or going out to get the community vacuum. Her pride wins out so she pulls her shirt up over her nose and waits.

After a few minutes she releases her shirt and finds the air is mostly breathable. She pulls out her phone, creates a shopping list, and adds the word “Vacuum”.

She kneels back by her bed a looks again. Now that she dust is evenly distributed around the room she can easily make out the shapes of the books scattered beneath. She summons a small orb of light and peers at their spines.

“There it is.”

Barbara shifts to her side and reaches as far as she can. Her fingers claw at the spine. Finally she manages to catch it and pull it out.

She turns it over a wipes the dust off the black leather cover.

“Magic and the Mind”. It’s an old volume she got back when all this nonsense started.

She returns to the table and shoves the month old cup of coffee that she should really deal with to the side and sets the book in its place.

She opens it and skims a few pages before closing it again. It will do. She will also have to revisit that bookstore. She’d seen a book on spell crafting that looked promising.

She hesitates tapping her finger on the table. Given that the real magic books had a “Notice me not” spell on them, she has no doubt that the cashier is a magic user of some variety. His cat had seemed a little too intelligent too.

Barbara hums. Should she…

No it’s better to leave it alone. If she isn’t careful she might get Morgana interested in him and she isn’t inclined to put someone else in her position. Of course given how he phrased his introduction she is sure he would be harder to catch than her.

That aside, magic users tend to be curious people by nature she doesn’t need to give him a reason to start investigating her.

Barbara stares at the book for a moment longer before closing it.

There is one thing she would like to do. She might not know how far she is willing to go yet but she does know she owes this much to the Trollhunter. If she recalls correctly Kanjigar’s head has been being kept in a box in the general storage room. If it were to get mislabeled even slightly the goblins would mistake the box for another bridge piece.

She chuckles.

Usually the goblins’ antics drive her up the wall but right now she’s thankful they’re so unreliable.

She goes to the closet and digs up her map of the Trollhunter’s patrol routes.

When she returns to the table she is reminded that she now has a slice of pie. She sets the map aside and makes her way into the kitchen. A quick search of the drawers turns up a relatively clean fork. She runs it under the facet and then wipes it off on a paper towel just to be sure.

Returning to the table she takes the plastic off the pie and hesitates for a long moment before taking a bite. It’s excellent. Not too sweet, not too tart, and the crust is nice and flaky.

Barbara wonders what it would have been like fresh.

~~~~

~~~~

Author Notes:

If the flow of this is going the way I think it is the next chapter should be fun...

Hope y'all enjoyed seeing Barbara's bachelor flat. I head-cannon her as the type of person who keeps a neat house if she lives with someone else but neglects everything if she lives alone. She currently lives in the Janus Order dorms. As Janus Order Head she could really get something nicer, but she doesn't really care. Anyway a bigger home means more to clean and well...

In 3Below Nancy says she was a spy in World War 1, but I'm modifying things to suit my purposes.

[box-architecture]

Please consider alpha Dream during a rut, stressed beyond belief. He's been having a bad week, a bad month it feels like, and he just wants to sleep but his body is demanding this now. George pulling Dream into his arms and into bed, letting Dream collapse on top of him. Dream whines and thrusts helplessly, dark circles under his eyes, and George kisses away the tears starting to form there. "I've got you," George murmurs. He grabs the lube from their bedside drawer, squeezing Dreams ass through his pants before delving inside to press slicked fingers into Dreams hole. "I'll take care of you." Dream keening high in his throat when George starts teething on his ear, working his way to the little glands on his neck. There's no such thing as soulmates or soulmarks, or permanent bites, but if there was, George thinks his would be there, proof for all the world that Dream was his. He didn't need more proof than Dream attempting to bounce on his fingers alone, or the way his knot swelled inside him during George's heats, but showing off how thoroughly the pretty man he calls his alpha settles him on days where nothing feels quite right. He makes sure Dream can feel the bruises forming on his collar. "George," Dream pants, "George," "Already? On just my fingers, Dream?" "Don't tease," He begged. He squirmed when George dug into his waistband to grip the base of his cock, where the knot was forming. "I'm not," George said, probably lying. It was hard to think when all he could feel was Dream, Dream, Dream. "I just think it's cute how much you need it." Dream made a discontent noise, but George squeezed his knot and he was shaking from the pleasure. "Next time you'll come just from sitting on my cock." George told him, and twisted his fingers to fold against Dreams prostate. With a choked noise, he collapsed in George's arms, shuddering violently through his orgasm and spilling into his pants and all over his palm before growing still. George removed his fingers, wiping them on Dreams thigh. He grimaced as his other hand dripped sticky cum onto the sheets, but he didn't bother getting up to clean. Not when Dreams slowed breathing was in his ear. He had been exhausted, and his body had been allowed him to rest in George's arms, where he belonged. He kissed the side of Dream's head and settled with with him in a short nap. At least until Dream was forced to start up again.