#I don't need the books in that 4 pack but I would very much like the box ;^;

[sillyfudgemonkeys]

Brain: You will not buy another 8 versions of the Kyoshi and Yangchen novels! You will be kind to your wallet you will- Brain: ..... Brain: WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU ALREADY CHECKED OUT?!

[rainyreading]

If you want to (no pressure), could you do one for Theo?

The reader (girl) and Theo are friends in their sixth year and have to babysit, maybe the reader's niece or nephew.

Maybe Theo isn't good with kids and the reader helps him. You can decide all that, I'll leave that up to you.

Thank youuuuuu <3 <3

Babysitting

Theo Nott x bestfriend!sytherin!reader

wc: 1.5k

a/n: requests open

(not my gif)

It was winter break and you were staying at Hogwarts. A lot of your friends were staying at Hogwarts for break as well. You got a letter from your sister asking if your niece could come stay with you. You wrote back and replied with a yes.

Your niece was 4 years old. She was a little ball of fire, who always kept you on your toes. You truly loved your niece and cherished any time you spent together. So you were excited that she was coming to stay with you for a little bit.

Sixth year was equally exciting. It was like you were one of the oldest kids on the grounds, witch felt good. You had amazing friends and your classes were doable. It was hard to imagine next year was gonna be your last year at Hogwarts.

You and your friends decided to have a picnic by the black lake. Everyone in your friend group was there, which you were happy about. Some elves in the kitchen helped you out with the food, so you were very grateful.

"This is nice," you began.

"Yeah it is," Draco responded.

"Makes me want to jump in the black lake," Theo said through a mouthful of bread.

"You totally would," you teased.

"Listen, I have my niece coming to visit soon and I was wondering if you guys could help out, please," you begged.

"Yeah of course," Pansy agreed.

"I'm not good with kids," Theo put out.

"I'm sure your better than you think," you reassured.

"I'm really not," Theo argued.

"Well I still need you to be there for me," you deadpanned.

"Yes mam," Theo saluted.

Eventually your group finished up being around the black lake. Everyone packed up the picnic and carried on with their day. You stayed in the Slytherin common room reading a book by the fire.

Theo came strolling in, spying you curled up on the couch. It was in Theo's nature to bother you. He was always with you and always paling around with you. You were his best friend and he'd like to think he was yours.

"Hey Y/N/N, whatcha reading?" he asked.

You flipped up the book angling it to show him the cover then said, "Pride and Prejudice."

"What's it about?" Theo asked.

"The relationship of a boy and a girl as they try to overcome the titular sins of pride and prejudice in order to fall in love and marry."

"Sounds interesting," Theo stated.

"You're not gonna let me read are you?" you sighed.

"Well when you put it like that it sounds bad, but I just want to hang out with you," Theo smiled.

"Aw you're sweet," you cooed as you ruffled his hair. Theo swatted your hands away.

"What do you suggest we do?" you questioned as you shut your book, after bookmarking it.

"Well I haven't gotten that far yet, Um I don't know we could talk, take a walk, play a prank on Filch, maybe gossip?" Theo suggested.

"Ha ha ha," you laughed.

"You want to gossip?" You were surprised.

"I mean if you want to yeah," Theo shrugged.

"Well I just happen to know Draco asked out Astoria but she turned him down. And he was all like "I'm not taking no for an answer," but she said no. He told me he's not gonna give up though," you explained.

"I bet they will end up together, they would be good together," Theo replied.

"I herd Pansy got a F on her potion essay." Theo shared.

"Oh my god no way really?" You put a hand over your mouth.

"Yep. She was pissed," Theo responded.

"I bet."

"Blaise told me he likes Luna like a lot," Theo began.

"Wait what that's crazy. I never would of guessed," you stated shocked.

"Yeah I know right!"

"What are you two crazy kids up to?" Pansy saunters in and takes a seat next to you on the couch.

"Nothing much, just talking," you say.

"Oh well I hope it's about me," she flips her hair.

"Of course Pans," you laugh.

The three of you all chatted for a while, talking about the break. How excited you were to have time off from classes. The three of you were enjoying the break and being able to be carefree.

——————

The next day you woke up early. Your niece was coming today. You were a little bit nervous and anxious to see how she would get along with your friends. She was adorable though so you knew your friends would love her.

You went to the gate to pick up your niece and she was already there waiting for you. You were excited because you haven't seen her in a long while. You quickly embraced her after you said hellos.

"I've missed you Evie," you greeted.

"Missed you too," Evie responded.

"Come on let's walk to the castle and you can tell me what you have been up too."

Evie told you about her days and how happy she was to be visiting you. She told you about her mom, your sister and she told you about her friends in preschool.

When you got back to the castle you wanted to introduce your friends to your niece. You wanted everything to go smoothly so you secretly prayed it would.

You assumed everyone was in the common room. You made your way to the Slytherin common room with your niece. When you arrived all your friends were sprawled out on the couches and by the fire.

They all looked at your direction when you entered.

"Hi guys. I want you to meet Evie. Evie this is everyone. Everyone this is Evie." You gestured to the group and to Evie.

"Hi Evie it's nice to meet you, I'm Pansy and that's Draco," Pansy spoke up.

Evie waved to both of them.

"Hi Im Blaise," Blaise greeted.

"Hi," Evie whispered.

"And this is Teddy," you introduced.

"Teddy? Hi Teddy!" Evie is exclaimed.

"Hi little one," Theo addressed.

Evie came over to Theo and looked at him curiously. Theo smiled at her. She then reached out her hand and then stopped.

"Can I touch your hair?" she asked.

"Um sure," Theo replied.

Evie touched Theo's hair and then she giggled.

"It's so fluffy!" She laughed.

Theo gave you a look that said "what do I do?" You laughed at his lack of being around children.

"Give her a high five"' you suggested.

Theo raised his hand and said, "High five!"

Evie grinned and slapped her hand on Theo's. Evie took a liking to Theo and you could tell fairly quickly. Evie was one of your favorite family members and you were glad she liked your friends.

"Do you want to take a walk with me?" Theo asked.

"Yeah!" Evie answered.

Pansy, Blaise and Draco decided to stay in the common room. You, Theo, and Evie decided to roam the castle grounds. Evie was a bundle of energy.

"Could I have a piggy back ride Teddy?" Evie asked.

Theo looked to you for approval which you granted.

"Yeah of course," he allowed.

Evie jumped on his back and threw her arms around his neck. Theo grabbed ahold of her legs and shifted her up a little bit.

"Giddy Up horsey!" Evie called out.

Theo laughed and started to run. Evie yelled "weeeeee!" You started to catch up with them happy that Evie was having so much fun. Theo stopped at the top of a grassy hill.

"Can we roll down the hill?" Evie questioned.

"I don't see why not," you shrugged.

"Teddy go first," Evie pushed Theo on the back, urging him to roll down the hill first.

"Ok ok ok I'm going," Theo rushed out.

Theo laid down and then turned around to begin rolling down the hill. You started laughing as he speeded down the hill.

"Your turn Auntie!" Evie insisted.

"Alright settle down I'm going I'm going," you responded.

You got down on the ground and rolled down the hill. You ended down by Theo's feet and he helped you up.

"Come on Evie, tumble on down," you called.

"You guys ready?" Evie asked.

"Yes!" You and Theo both answered.

Evie came tumbling down giggling and getting covered in grass. You applauded her when she reached the end of the hill. She was beaming. Theo also joined in and clapped for her. Evie took a bow.

Eventually you all went back to the castle chatting about anything and everything. Evie held your hand and Theo's hand as she walked in the middle of you guys.

When you guys returned back to the common room Evie was tired and wanted to take a nap. You were so excited that Theo and Evie were getting along you didn't notice that Evie fell asleep on Theo's lap.

"Are you ok?" You mouthed to Theo.

"Yeah she's fine right here," he whispered.

It made your heart melt at the sight. You were thankful for Theo's help today and hoped that Evie had fun today, you certainly did. You hoped the three of you could hang out more and more. You watched as Evie slept completely content resting on Theo.

[copperbadge]

Lately, it's felt like every time I've started to work on writing, I'll just be getting into the rhythm of it when I get interrupted, either by work or the cats or because the time I'd booked in the library study room is up (you can only do two hours at a time, and only four hours a week total). It was getting to the point where I kept re-reading the same chapter or so of previous work but never managing to add to it.

So I tried an experiment this past weekend -- I found a really cheap rate on a local hotel room, and on Friday I took an overnight bag and a very old laptop with limited processing power and checked into a room about a mile from home for a quasi "staycation". I unpacked and had a quiet night on Friday, as prelude to working Saturday-Sunday. The idea was to write uninterrupted by other people, pets, the presence of all my Stuff around me at home, et cetera.

I had snacks but I also bought meals out, which was nice; I don't often order in or buy out when I'm at home. The way I set up was that I would do fifty minutes of writing with do-not-disturb engaged on my phone and then ten minutes of checking email, texts, etc. since often what pulls me out of writing is a text or an email that needs answering, or the anxiety that I'm missing one that would. If I set it so that every hour I check, well, nobody's going to die if something doesn't get answered in an hour, so the anxiety isn't there, and neither is the distraction. (I found a nice app for this, review later depending on how functional it continues to be for me, but it's a like $4 app called Forest.)

It worked pretty well -- writing for an uninterrupted hour, as long as I know what I'm working on, is very functional for me. I average about two thousand words, that way, though there is a limit to the number of hours I can put in. I ended up doing two hours in the morning and one hour in the afternoon, then switched from fiction writing to clearing out my tumblr drafts and some correspondence for the fourth hour. So it went something like

Go out and get breakfast, bring back and eat in room

Change into lounging clothes and do two one-hour sessions

Go out and get lunch, eat lunch out

Bit of a rest break back in the room

Two one-hour sessions, one of writing; when tired, switch to something that requires less creativity

Go out and get dinner, bring back and eat in room

And then in the evening the plan was to watch movies or catch up on reading, but I ended up being mentally weary, so instead I did some simple tarot reading. It was less divination or even meditation than just messing around, keeping the creativity stimulated; I did a couple of Creative Writing spreads, some very brief divination spreads (I nicked a nice three-card spread here that I mentally call He To Hecuba, and just used it in general rather than for a specific question) and then invented a spread when I was starting to get irritated that the same like, five cards kept coming up, more on this in its own post.

Sunday I did one more writing session but it was less successful, I think partly because what I was writing required a lot of research and partly because the previous day I'd dumped eight thousand words into the file. (Research took longer because I brought the most garbage laptop known to man, and the browsers crash if you try to open Google Maps, but in other ways it was ideal since there wasn't much I could do on it other than write.) But I had a good breakfast, got some rest, packed up easily enough, and headed home just ahead of the rain storm.

I don't think it's something I'll be able to do in that format especially often, since the deal I got on the hotel was an anomaly and Chicago lodging, even just AirBNB stuff, is stupid expensive. But in addition to helping get some work done it was a nice break, so I'm going to look into ways I could swing it on a perhaps monthly basis, or some other way to cheaply spend an entire day alone with decent access to a bathroom/snacks and a way to come and go easily. I've looked into coworking spaces before but they tend to be prohibitively expensive and don't really have the setup I'd prefer; there's a hostel on the north side with private rooms that I might try out but it doesn't seem significantly cheaper than a hotel. I might just have to pick one weekend a month and watch last-minute hotel price cuts where they simply want to fill a room for a day or two.

Anyway, functionally I wrote almost a fifth of a novel this weekend, and one that I wasn't feeling super on fire about; I'm feeling much better about it now that I've got some established plot going and I feel like I "know" the newer characters a bit better. (Also I'm enjoying writing Simon as someone who is absolutely entranced by his love interest and clueless that what he's feeling isn't mild antipathy because they met while fighting over ricotta.) So it was a big help, although if I were to put a budget line item in the Extribulum Press ledger for "writing staycation" it would wipe out my royalties surplus very quickly.

[studentbyday]

a september packed with purpose 🏵️ (goals for the 2024-2025 academic year)

an attempt to live a meaningful life even if it's really busy.

🎓 academic goals:

stay on top of my schoolwork. not feeling like i'm running after deadlines but staying organized, calm, and methodical, even if there's a lot.

change up my study strats! turn text into diagrams! shorter focus periods followed by an active break to ease myself into the semester!

study 8h per day or less if at all possible (for official schoolwork)

👩🏻‍🔬 career goals:

finish databases courses to increase my career capital (i sped read so good they can't ignore you this summer and it was both inspiring and practical - grateful for the feeling of having a roadmap...even if it's vague.)

do everything to become so good the lab i'm interested in joining can't ignore me (i have pretty much no current affiliation with them or their university so this is gonna be an uphill climb unless maybe i seem like a perfect fit...)

🌳 lifestyle and adulting goals:

develop a can-do attitude and work on my growth mindset

continue to practice driving at least 3x per week before it snows

become a 6AM girlie (or an 8PM girlie, if you're looking at the sleeping time lol) so i have a few hours of calm, focused silence in the morning which will minimize the amount of time i need to spend studying after dinner (planning to take advantage of the jet lag and the fact that the sun sets earlier in winter, making me sleepy sooner 😠)

re-gain some level of fitness to counter my couch potato summer habits and all the sitting i'll be doing this semester

🤸🏻‍♀️ more fun goals:

apply to volunteer with my local horticultural society and hopefully start volunteering soon (hoping to work on their newsletter as that's something i miss from my high school days! something familiar will also be good for easing into my "reintegration into society" era as a previously "studying hermit". perhaps once i get so comfortable i feel like i'm plateauing, i can branch into being a volunteer gardener! i have absolutely zero successful experience with plants, so it would be really nice to have some guidance from people who've made and maintained such pretty gardens in my community 💗)

make time for piano (ideally at least 1h 3-4 days of the week, but i will be happy if i even get to touch the keys for less than 1h of practice 3-4 days a week. if i can do this, then i can more reasonably justify getting a real acoustic piano at home and maybe even take lessons again when things get less busy...and i don't have to fear not making progress or even getting worse on the digital in the meantime because my fingers and brain get re-accustomed to the acoustic feel and sound options surprisingly, happily quickly even if i only get to play on one for a few days of a year, which is already quite a privilege 🥺🙏🏻 in the meantime, i need to maintain/improve my dexterity, sight-reading skills, and theory knowledge. i don't plan to read the theory book front to back anymore, i'll just read the bits i'm most interested in and maybe eventually that will mean covering the whole book but i won't start with that intention in mind 🤷🏻‍♀️)

sOmEhOw have the energy to comprehend even 1 duolingo lesson in japanese ~daily if only to one day get to a level where i can read more japanese books (and maybe even watch some animé without subs? no pressure tho since i'm very picky about animé 😂)

💭 nice to have but not pressing:

make it a habit to read a nerdy book or academic article that isn't directly for schoolwork to help me find my research interests, learn more about labs in my physical area, and/or re-ignite my passion for/sense of wonder with STEM and STEM-related issues 🔥

each week read something from suggested/recommended course reading lists if there are any

each month read a book completely unrelated to academics, something that distracts me or that feeds my soul or both (or if i can't do that, then just 1 such book each semester, i'm just after something rather than nothing)

🐝 productivity advice from one of my role models that i want to follow religiously this semester:

prioritize rest in order to think and act fast (10 hours of sleep! downtime! meditating! gentle exercise!)

schedule down to the minute but understand that as long as you're doing what you planned to do within the hour you planned to do it, you're good (that is assuming life doesn't happen and derail the entire day's plans but most days thankfully are not like that). give yourself lots of buffer (bigger, not smaller blocks of time in the calendar!).

understand that prioritizing means that you may fall behind in the unprioritized areas from time to time and have to catch up and that's completely expected and completely fine.

be selective about what you're "perfectionistic" with (it's not really about applying perfectionism, more like being picky about where you apply extreme conscientiousness). that is also part of prioritizing.

✏️ post schedule: 1-3x a week depending on time, energy, and what that means for my mental state 😅

[anticidic]

Can I ask from this ask game for Soukoku (all of the questions)? Thanks 🧁

https://www.tumblr.com/comingfromastatechampionasshole/119898100247?source=share

hi anon!! this looked fun, so I decided to do it 😊

1. Which one is the better cook

Chuuya. Dazai wouldn't know good eats even if it hit him upside the head. Dazai would try to cook, but he set off the smoke alarm not just once, but twice, and the last time he burnt their food beyond edible. I think Dazai would still try to hone his skills when Chuuya wasn't around.

2. What their love letters look like

Lowkey, I think Dazai would send a fake letter and then a really passionate letter full of him waxing poetic. The man gets caught up in his head too much and for too long, and it'd show in his writing where he fails to voice how he feels. You feel like you're reading someone's diary. The fake letter is to irritate Chuuya and pretend like he doesn't care about sappy love letters.

Chuuya, I think would be more straightforward and just say like, he went to the park and crossed over a bridge and it reminded him of the time they were there at night together looking up at the stars.

3. Which one outlives the other, and how they cope

I feel like Dazai would outlive Chuuya? It doesn't even have to be tragic, but taking elements from his canon self, I feel like after finding the one and settling down, he'd dread dying and his inner resolve would keep him alive.

He'd look like he was coping extremely well, or look completely unfazed by Chuuya's passing—the jokes go on, he continues annoying those around him. But then he goes home, it's just him and the four walls and a bed too big for just him, and it's cold. He talks to himself into the late hours nursing multiple glasses of alcohol and it goes on like that until dawn. He's avoidant of anything that reminds him of Chuuya at first because he stuffs every damn emotion down instead of letting them out, and he can feel that tiny crack going down the length of his face and splitting him open day-by-day.

Then, he's getting ready for another day and he goes into their closet that's now become entirely his, and he reaches for gloves because it's below freezing, and he accidentally grabs Chuuya's. The tears come because it's the final straw. And they don't stop.

But also taking parts of canon into consideration, I feel like Chuuya would have a shorter lifespan because of eventual corruption side effects catching up to him as he got older.

4. What they do on date night

Dazai would like doing something cozy, like ordering food and a movie in, but he gets roped into nights out at luxury restaurants, or to take a walk around a temple because Chuuya insists he needs fresh air.

5. How many kids they'll have

I can see them having two 👀 Dazai's the one really wanting the second

6. How they decorated their bedroom

Dazai's very minimalistic. Maybe a framed photo or two, a little lamp on the nightstand, and books he cycles through. Probably has a mini pile of clothes by the foot of the bed because he was late to work that morning. Chuuya wouldn't be as minimalistic, but you could tell he put thought and care into the decorations and how high quality the things he has are. A shoe rack for all his shoes to neatly line up on. A standing mirror by the dresser. Framed artworks hung up on the walls. A large bed with a lot of pillows and the bedding high quality.

7. Which one is the worse driver

Dazai, no contest. Chuuya will force Dazai out of the driver's seat if he has to.

8. What they argue about

Really stupid things. Like, Dazai not restocking the toilet paper. Chuuya forgetting to put his phone on silent when it rings on the nightstand at five am. Chuuya losing his mind over the fact his pack of cigarettes is slowly going down and he doesn't remember smoking so much, but it's really Dazai stealing them.

9. Which one swears more

Chuuya swears more out loud, but Dazai either swears in his head or to himself. Dazai will be sipping coffee at the table when he suddenly hears a loud, "Fuuuuuuck!" down the hall, and he goes to see what's up. But it's just Chuuya crumpled to the floor rubbing his foot because he stubbed his toe on the door. Then Dazai walks away.

Dazai will joke that Chuuya needs to wash his mouth out with soap, but he doesn't actually care that Chuuya swears.

10. What TV shows they watch together, and which ones they hide from the other

I think they'd be really into watching gritty shows or shows that have heists as a theme? The action would reel them in. But separately, I can see Dazai being into dumb reality shows because he "likes to make fun of how stupid people are" but he's really into them, and Chuuya likes cooking shows or animal documentaries.

11. What their first impression was of each other

Chuuya thought Dazai was a fucking idiot and actually couldn't stand him. (Rightfully so) And Dazai made it his mission to get under Chuuya's skin, and now whoops, look how they got here. A very push-pull relationship.

12. What they do for their anniversary

Dazai downplays it and acts cool when he casually suggests they go away to another part of Japan or they go down to Odaiba at night to walk along the pier and then dine by the water. He also got them a nice hotel room so it can just be them. Chuuya wasn't even really sure what to do, he was just gonna get a gift and take Dazai out.

13. Which makes a bigger deal of birthdays

I think Dazai would make a big deal about Chuuya's birthday, but not care about his own. Chuuya would dislike being reminded he's not only the older of the two of them, but he's getting older faster than he recalls the days going by like seconds. Dazai will joke about it, too, but he sprinkles in niceties like getting Chuuya a new pair of gloves.

14. What nicknames they call each other

I can't see them calling each other couple names honestly—I think they'd eventually come up with something only they understand/something stupid for one another. (I will say, Dazai thought he was hallucinating the first time Chuuya called him Osamu instead of Dazai, though.)

15. What they would change about each other

Chuuya would change Dazai's terrible habit of leaving messes everywhere, and Dazai would change how Chuuya hogs the bed and snores like a roaring machine.

[hyperfixiation-station]

The Filler Fics Pt.1

Beach Day Pt.1- Travel

Part 2

TW: Canon divergence, military inaccuracies, mentions of injuries/hospitals Inspired by @shyravenns art Summary: This is the first of many sitcom-style filler fics. Yk, the ones where they go to the beach, or go to the store, etc, etc. I am open to suggestions, as I don't really watch sitcoms, so please comment or request or DM me ideas!! This one is, of course, a beach-day fic that I have spilt into 2 parts. this is the getting there portions, pt.2 will be the beach :) WC:1080

It had been a long few months. The threat of global annihilation, the hunt for Makarov, Soap getting shot, it was just a lot, and they all needed a break.

Price had watched Gaz and Ghost spend night after sleepless night at Soap’s bedside, refusing to do anything until the Scotsman woke up. And he had been right there with them, although Ghost wouldn’t talk to him, the Lt. still pissed that Price’s actions, or rather inactions, may have gotten Soap killed. Price couldn't blame him. It’s not like he hadn’t been fixated on that one moment, mentally berating himself for stopping Soap from killing Makarov in the first place. He would have gotten in a shit-load of trouble for it, but anything would have been better than…well, he didn’t even want to think it.

The team couldn’t take another loss so soon after Roach’s death. Price knew that. Knew that if Soap didn’t make it his team would fall apart. And it would be his fault. 

Thankfully, Soap was alright. He’d woken up a little disoriented, with no recollection of the week leading up to his…head wound. Other than some faint ringing in his ear and occasionally bouts of dizziness, he was alright, much to the relief of his squad members. However tensions were still running high. Just because the Scotsman was awake and talking didn’t mean the very real fear that his friends had felt over the past few weeks had vanished.  

There were nights Price found himself studying Soap, watching the rise and fall of his chest proving he was alive. He’d seen Ghost reach up from his bunk and grab the Scot’s wrist, checking for a pulse after waking from what Price assumed was a nightmare. Things got a little better once Soap didn’t have to wear gauze over the wound anymore, but the scar was still an ugly reminder of what had almost happened.  

Soap was constantly mother-henned now, not allowed to do training, having meals brought to him, never going anywhere by himself. It was starting to piss him off, and Price could see it. Tensions were running high, and it was only a matter of time before someone snapped. 

“Give the boys some time off, time away from the battlefield. Time to recuperate and settle back in. They’ll be okay.” Laswell told him at their bi-weekly meeting they hadn’t had in 3 months. Price booked 4 flights and a week-long stay at a beach-house off the Coast of California that same night.

However, the flight left in 5 hours and he still hadn’t told his men. He moves through the base, heading towards the rec room that he knew they hang out at, hoping they are all in one spot. 

Aaaaand bingo!

 Ghost is sprawled out on the couch, Soap sitting on the floor, leaning against his thigh, with Gaz in the armchair opposite, watching some stupid show on the little TV they have. Price can’t help but stare at the long, inch wide streak where Soap’s hair hadn’t quite grown back, a grim reminder of how close he came to losing one of his men. His eyes are drawn from Soap's skull by Gaz’s laughter, the man's head tilted back, shoulders shaking at something that was said on the T.V. 

The show cuts to commercial, and Price figures it’s as good a time as any to cut in. 

“Alright boys, pack your bags. We’re going stateside.” All three of them look up at Price in varying degrees of confusion, “Laswell decided after Soap's near-death experience we all needed a little R&R, so we’re heading to the beach.” 

“Ah’ll finally get tae see that ‘impeccable bronze’, eh Lt?” Soap nudges Ghost, a grin splitting his face.

“We’ll see Johnny.” 

“The beach, captain?” 

“Yes Gaz, the beach. You got complaints, go talk to Laswell.” 

“Hey, no complaints here sir! Just makin’ sure.”

“Good. Because we leave in an hour so you don’t have time to complain anyway.” 

“An hour??”

“No time f’r y’r beauty regime, Gaz.” 

“Ah shaddup, just cause you’re jel-”

“Boys! Get to going!” 

“Aye sir!” Price shakes his head as he watches them file out, Gaz and Ghost subconsciously sandwiching Soap in between them. The Scot shoves Gaz, his shoulders shaking as the shorter man lets out an angry squawk.  Things have been tense, sure, but he can’t help his smile as his boys walk off, alive and well. 

Ghost hates flying. Well, sort of. Military transport ain’t bad in his opinion, but when he has to fly commercial? With civilians? And screaming babies? He hates it. Hates it hates it hates it. 

He's dressed in sweatpants and a sweatshirt, a black surgical mask adorning his face. HE may have gotten comfortable with his team seeing his face, but the rest of the pubic had not lived through numerous near death experiences alongside him, and thus did not get that honor. Covid had at least helped with the stares, nowadays no one really batted an eyes at him, which did, surprisingly, ease his discomfort.

He shifts in line, sandwiched between Gaz and Soap as they wait to board. Soap is turned slightly, placing the scar on the side of his head directly in Ghost's line of sight. Gods he wishes he could look anywhere else. But its to no avail. No matter how many time Johnny had reassured him he was 'okay', Ghost couldn't get the image of his teammate, his brother-in-arms, his friend unconscious in his own blood, out of his head. He just couldn't.

Yeah, sure, he should have told the court-mandated therapist about that, but the she wouldn't have signed off on him going back to service and then where would he be? That right, no-

"Ghost!" He's snapped out of his reverie by Price, who is giving him the look. Whatever. Price should know by now that he wasn't gonna spill his guts to anyone, much less someone with the power to kick him off the team.

He hands his ticket to the attendant, mumbling a 'thank yo' before following along after Johnny, hands shoved in his pockets. Johnny takes the window seat, so he takes the aisle, condemning Gaz to the middle. Besides, he was the only one that would fit there anyways.

The plane takes off and, as if on cue, a baby starts screaming in the front. Ghost sighs and slouches in his seat. This was going to be a looooong flight.

Let me know what you think:))

[gotham-ruaidh]

Little Bit Better Than I Used To Be

Catch up: Chapter 1 (Starry Eyes) || Chapter 2 (Save Our Souls) || Chapter 3 (Dancing On Glass)|| Chapter 4 (Merry-Go-Round)|| Backstage (1) || Backstage (2) || Chapter 5 (Danger)|| Backstage (3) || Chapter 6A (Love Walked In) || Chapter 6B (Without You) || Backstage (4) || Chapter 7 (Stick To Your Guns) || Chapter 8 (Time For Change) || Backstage (5) || Chapter 9 (Take Me To The Top) || Backstage (6) || Chapter 10 (Home Sweet Home) || Backstage (7) || Chapter 11a (Nightrain) || Chapter 11b (Nothing Else Matters) || Chapter 12a (Handle With Care) || Chapter 12b (I’m So Tired of Being Lonely) || Chapter 13a (Angel) || Chapter 13b (She’s My Addiction) || Chapter 13c (Patience) || Chapter 14a (Where Do We Go Now?) || Chapter 14b (Where Do We Go Now?) || Chapter 14c (Where Do We Go Now?) || Chapter 15a (Dreams) || Chapter 15b (I Sing A Song of Love) || Chapter 15c (You Can Do This If You Try) || Chapter 16 (Let That Feeling Grab You Deep Inside || Chapter 17A: Never Tear Us Apart || Chapter 17B: It’s Tough To Be Somebody, And It’s Hard Not To Fall Apart  || Chapter 17C: I’m Wishing, Lord, That I Was Stoned || Chapter 18: Turn The Page || Chapter 19A: When You’re Alone, Do You Let Go? || Chapter 19B: Heading For A Spin ||| Also posted at AO3

Chapter 20A: I Don't Need Nothing When I'm By Your Side

So hold me close, better hang on tight Buckle up, baby, it's a bumpy ride We're two kids hitching down the road of life Our world, our fight

-- “Born To Be My Baby,” Bon Jovi (1988) [click here to listen]

North Carolina || February 1989

Jamie frowned, looking back and forth between the shelf he’d just put together and the three unpacked boxes of books (two marked CLAIRE, one marked JAMIE).

Would she like them organized alphabetically by author? Genre? Size?

He rubbed the back of his neck, thinking. Or perhaps she wanted medical books in her workroom? And maybe he could put his music books on the cabinet in his studio –

“There you are.”

He hadn’t heard Claire pad into the room – at some point they would need to get throw rugs to protect the gorgeous old hardwood floors – and smiled as she effortlessly stepped into his embrace.

They held each other for a long moment – his lips against her hair, her face buried in the safety of his neck.

Almost three months since the acoustic tour had ended, the night before Claire’s birthday. About six weeks since they had closed on their dream house, nestled against a mountain in the forests of North Carolina, not too far from The Ridge. And about two weeks since the items in storage – from her packed-up apartment in Boston, and his packed-up house in Los Angeles – had arrived.

The property had everything they needed. Privacy and solitude, of course. An old barn that they were using as a garage for Jamie’s motorcycle and cars. The house – an old cabin, really, dating from the 1800s and which had been lovingly expanded over the years – was perfect. A spacious living room, complete with the original stone fireplace. An eat-in kitchen, with newly replaced appliances. Two small rooms off the back that were now his music studio and her workroom – spaces to pursue their interests. A modestly-sized master bedroom. And a small extra bedroom – which for now was for guests, though God willing would be a nursery very soon.

Claire had insisted on doing two things quickly, before spending their time unpacking all the boxes.

The first was to hang his six gold and two platinum records in his studio – and he agreed, after he had hung her framed medical school diploma on the wall of her workroom.

The second was to install the fax machine on the bare floor of the studio – which, together with the phone, was their only link to the outside world.

For as much as they isolated themselves in this beautiful, peaceful place – the world pushed along without them.

In March, they would leave for L.A. and three weeks of rehearsals with the band. Maybe play a few small gigs in clubs on the Sunset Strip – Jamie had always wanted to do that. And in April, they’d fly to Europe, and kick off the tour that had swelled to 120 dates and stretched into 1990.

Colum was busier than ever – finalizing logistics, negotiating with local promoters, running interference with the suits from the label, upgrading the concerts from arenas to soccer stadiums. He had a conference call with the band every Tuesday – with Ian calling in from Lallybroch in upstate New York, and Angus from various resort spots in Mexico and the Caribbean (“I can’t believe Charlotte and Molly haven’t worn him out yet,” Jamie had mused to Claire one day. She had only shrugged and said, “they take care of each other”). Colum would always have a punchlist of decisions for the band – OK to book studio time during the week off in Scandinavia in July? The roadies couldn’t figure out the pyro setup without the band, OK to wait until rehearsals? They would need to film at least three music videos, which one could be a live performance? – and follow up with decisions in a fax sent later that day.

Jamie had been clear with Colum that he had three conditions for the tour: that Claire would be with him, that Raymond would be traveling with the band, and that the same no alcohol/drugs/groupies rule from the acoustic tour would carry through to this tour. Of course Colum had agreed. Just as he’d agreed to make provisions for Jenny to periodically fly out to visit Ian, and for Angus to always have a suite with two bathrooms to keep his girlfriends happy.

Claire and Jamie knew that this tour would be difficult, for so many different reasons. But they would be better prepared this time, to draw strength from each other, and to have Raymond for support. And maybe, just maybe they would return home from Europe with the best souvenir of all…

“Another fax from Colum,” Claire murmured after a long while.

Jamie snorted against her hair. “I don’t know whether to be impressed or annoyed.”

“I do admire how hard he’s working for you and for the band. And how much he’s keeping all of you in the loop on the decisions he’s making. He doesn’t want any surprises.”

“I’d imagine not. The amount of bullshit he has to be putting up with right now must be insane. I just hope he doesn’t crack.”

“He never said if he’s bringing Tricia on the tour.” Tricia – Colum’s wife of more than ten years. She stood a head taller than her husband, still impossibly beautiful in her late thirties, smiling for every frown on her husband’s face. Claire had only met her once – couldn’t say she really knew her – but she knew enough about her.

How she had first met Colum at a party in 1970, when he was a roadie for Led Zeppelin and she was part of a gaggle of groupies that held court at the Riot House in L.A.

How, when she and her girlfriends joined the Led Zep tour the following summer, he had punched out the lighting guy at the Cow Palace in San Francisco when he heard the guy didn’t understand what Tricia meant by saying “no”.

How Geordie Ash – the reporter who had put Jamie (and, in a way, Claire) on the map last year with that Rolling Stone article – had sent flowers to her hotel room every day for a month during Led Zeppelin’s 1973 U.S. tour. Not knowing, of course, that she was allergic to lilies – or how Colum, who knew more about her by that point than he cared to admit, had wordlessly disposed of them for her, every day that month.

“I don’t think she likes to tour.” Jamie’s thumb traced lazy circles on the skin of Claire’s back. “Too many bad memories.”

If you asked any rock journalist or musician who had found Alex MacGregor – assistant to Led Zeppelin manager Peter Grant – dead in his Seattle hotel room in the spring of 1975, they would all say quite confidently that it had been Colum Laird, who by that point had advanced to lead Zeppelin’s touring crew.

But a handful of people – Peter Grant, and Colum, and Jamie, and now Claire – knew the truth.

Tricia woke up, Alex cold beside her in bed, a needle in his arm. The only thing she knew to do was slip quietly down the hall, tumbling into Colum’s room…and finally, his arms. Where she had remained ever since.

“I couldn’t imagine being away from you for so long.” Claire sighed. “I don’t know how they make it work.”

Jamie shrugged. “They love each other very deeply. They fixed the broken pieces in each other. And now she has the two boys to keep her busy.” He kissed her forehead. “Something for us to aspire to, perhaps. What’s in the fax?”

She held it out for him to read. Sharing a smile at Colum’s scrawl.

J+C: I’m not calling because I interrupted enough moments between you on tour and I’ll probably do it again this year. I don’t have Raymond’s info pls have him get in touch so we have a copy of his credentials and the travel agent can make all arrangements for Europe. I got the label to foot the bill for his travel meals and hotels, convinced them it’s a business expense, you’re welcome. Stay out of trouble. Colum.

“We’ll have him give Colum a call after he arrives this afternoon,” Jamie mused, folding the fax and sliding it into the back pocket of his jeans.

Claire nodded. “The guest room is all ready. And I’m glad Dougal and Gillian and William will be here tomorrow – I’m so happy they’re so close by.”

Jamie squeezed her shoulder, and released her. “As am I. Now, I have a question for you about these books…”

[imtrashraccoon]

Hey it's about time I managed to get another chapter out! I was stuck for ages on how to resolve the ending but I think it's pretty good now.

Btw, I'm no longer referring to this as Paptober'24 and I've updated the previous chapters to reflect that. It's a stand alone short story about my Underfell Papyrus, Scar, in my opinion.

First, Previous, & Next Chapter

Chapter 4: I Guess We're Roommates??

Word Count: 2,638

A heatwave had settled on the city of Mountsburg and while your apartment had air conditioning, you weren't content to sit inside all day. It was a nice day! You should go out and do...something!

"I want to go to the beach."

Scar looked up from the book he'd been reading and gave you a confused look. "Then Just Go? You Do Not Need My Permission, Human."

You shook your head and moved closer. "Well, I don't want to go by myself..." When he just continued to look at you blankly, you sighed, "Do you want to go to the beach with me? It's not that far if we take the bus..."

He gave you an amused look and set the book aside. "Of Course I Do."

"You just wanted to hear me actually ask."

He chuckled, "Correct." There was a subtle glint in his scarlet eyelights and you had to take a deep breath to keep yourself from getting annoyed with him.

"Whatever, let's just get ready to go," you grumbled and left the room.

Your swimsuit wasn't anything fancy, just an old t-shirt paired with some men's basketball shorts, but it was comfortable to wear. The best part was that you could wear it out in public and no one would be the wiser. Still, you made sure to bring an extra change of clothes for afterwards.

With Scar's help, you prepared a simple lunch of sandwiches with some fruit on the side and packed it in a little cooler. You also made a quick stop at a store to buy something that he could wear to the beach. He picked out a very bold pair of swim trunks with flame patterns and, seemingly on a whim, a plain tank top.

The bus was unusually packed when you boarded, forcing you to stay standing and hold onto the bar for stability. This also meant that you were standing a lot closer than usual to Scar but he didn't seem to mind. In fact, he was focused on the other passengers and your surroundings, much like he had been when you first met.

You hated this. The bus was way too warm and the lack of proper air circulation meant you could smell everyone else's body odour. The road also had quite a few potholes so you felt like you couldn't relax for even a moment, lest you lose your balance and fall. To top it all off, you couldn't help but notice that most people were staring at Scar, and by extension, yourself.

You took a deep breath and focused on counting to ten. You really didn't want to have a panic attack and make a scene, not here on a public bus surrounded by strangers. Maybe this trip had been a bad idea...

A hand on your shoulder startled you at first until Scar leaned down to whisper in your ear. "Look At Them," he hissed. "They Wish They Were Going On A Fun Day Out Like Us."

You had to bite your lip to keep from drawing any more attention to yourself. It didn't help that the proximity and tone of his voice had sent shivers down your spine. Why did something so small have this affect on you? Had he even noticed how uncomfortable you'd become since boarding? Or was his boasting just that?

A seat eventually opened up and you were able to sit down. Scar remained standing, although you noticed that he angled his body in such a way to mostly block you from view. You wondered how he could handle having everyone's eyes on him all the time without cracking under the pressure. Still, you were grateful for the slight reprieve and for the rest of the bus ride, you focused on regulating your breathing in an effort to calm yourself down.

By the time the bus had arrived at your stop, you were feeling better. While there was still a lingering tightness in your chest, just being able to breathe fresh air after over forty minutes of sitting in that stuffy bus was amazing. The lack of massive buildings and sprawling concrete also meant that the air felt less dense and muggy.

With a chuckle, you grabbed Scar's hand and tried to pull him towards the waterfront, although you soon gave up when he refused to be rushed. Understandably, he seemed content to take in the sights and sounds of the ocean and so you walked together along the shore until most of the large crowds had been left behind.

You eventually picked a decent spot to set up the cooler and beach towels. While you were doing that, Scar wandered down the shore a little ways. He seemed like he wanted to do some soul searching so you decided not to interrupt. It was actually kind of interesting to sit back and just watch how he reacted to things like the screeching of the seagulls or how the waves occasionally lapped at his feet.

When he eventually returned to your set up, you were in the middle of applying sunscreen. If you could've gone without, you would have but with your tendency to stay inside all day, you knew you would regret it if you didn't.

Apparently, your boney friend hadn't seen anyone use sunscreen before, if the weird look he gave you was any indication. "What Are You Doing?" he asked.

"Protecting my skin from the angry sun."

"I See." Scar glanced up at the sky and then back to you. "I Have Met Many Monsters Who Had A Hard Time Adapting To How Bright It Is On The Surface, But I Was Unaware Humans Struggle With It As Well."

"Well not all of us are the same, I just happen to be more sensitive than most," you shrugged. You stood up and began walking towards the water but glanced back when he hesitated to follow. "You coming?"

He furrowed his bonebrows and glanced at the ocean. "I... I Am Not Sure If I Should," he answered quietly.

You frowned and moved back to stand in front of him. "Is something wrong?"

"No, I Am Fine."

"Are you sure?" you asked gently.

Something was bothering him. You noted that his hands were clenched by his sides and his overall posture seemed stiffer than usual.

"I Cannot Swim."

You were a bit taken aback by his confession. It wasn't so much what he'd said that was surprising, but the simple way he had said it. Plenty of people couldn't swim and you certainly weren't an Olympian either. As far as you were concerned, it wasn't anything to be ashamed of and so you told him as much.

"No, I Simply Cannot." He held out his arm as if to make a point before adding, "I Am Not Buoyant Like You."

"Oh. I hadn't even thought of that..." You tapped your chin thoughtfully. "What if you just hung out where it's shallow? We don't have to go out very far if you don't want to."

He seemed to consider your suggestion for a moment before slowly nodding. "Alright..." He still didn't sound very sure of himself but made no further protests, now allowing you to lead him to the ocean.

It always took you a minute to get used to the temperature but, to his credit, Scar seemed to get over his initial trepidations rather quickly. He actually chuckled when the cool water caused you to sharply inhale and soon waded ahead of you.

Once you had gotten comfortable, you waded out until you could easily duck underneath the surface. While you were only submerged for a few seconds, it was enough to wash off the lingering sticky feeling from the sweaty bus. You would have a proper shower tonight to get the salt out of your hair and get rid of anything else that could be in the water.

After a little while, you waded over to where Scar was hanging out. He'd been examining a small shell that he must've found but dropped it back in the water when he noticed you.

"Are you having fun yet?" you asked.

He scanned the horizon for a moment. "I Would Not Necessarily Call This Fun...But It Is Definitely Peaceful." His voice sounded slightly husky towards the end but you noticed a hint of a smile grace his features.

You couldn't help smiling as well. "That's the best part in my opinion. It's just us and the ocean..."

"I Have Not Had The Opportunity To See The Ocean Like This. It Is Far Better In Person Than I Had Imagined."

You couldn't agree more.

~ ~ (⁠/⁠^⁠-⁠^⁠(⁠^⁠ ⁠^⁠*⁠)⁠/ ~ ~

You hadn't meant to splash Scar at first.

While he was a bit startled, he brushed it off as soon as he realized that you hadn't done it on purpose. The second time it happened, he gave you a stern look but otherwise didn't seem too bothered. Unfortunately for him, you took that as a challenge and decided to see how far you could push him before...something happened.

When you both grew bored of the water and began heading back to the beach, you casually moved closer to him. He was focused on how the waves had shaped the sand on the ocean floor beneath his feet and, seeing your chance, you scooped up a bunch of water and really splashed him. As soon as it made contact with his body, he froze up as if someone had dropped an ice cube down his shirt. Y

While you tried, you couldn't stop yourself from giggling at him.

He turned slightly so he could make eye contact with you and let out a sigh. "Alright Then, We Can Play That Game," he said in an oddly calm voice.

For a moment, you saw something dangerous in his scarlet eyelights, like an ember flickering to life. When he took a step closer, you turned to run but found that the water only impeded your escape. You only managed a few steps before he picked you up like it was nothing. Despite your squirming, his grip held firm and you came to the realization that he was far stronger than you'd previously given him credit for.

"I was just messing with you!" you protested.

Much to your dismay, he ignored you and turned back, bringing you out deeper into the water. Even when you begged and pleaded for him to stop, he remained silent. A wave of dread began to well up as you realized there was nothing you could do to escape. The sharp tips of his phalanges only seemed to press further into your skin, threatening to draw blood if you continued struggling like this.

"Scar! Please!"

"Austin! Please don't!"

Your pathetic cries for mercy went unheard and the more you pleaded, the further you were dragged from safety. Your captor only needed one hand to keep your wrists restrained and you couldn't break out of his hold no matter how desperately you struggled against him.

Your scream was silenced when he tossed you into the water like a sack of bricks. It was far too deep and cold for your little body to handle. You thrashed and kicked just to get your head above water again. Of course, Mom scolded both your brothers when you ran to her crying and soaking wet, but you knew they weren't sorry.

It wasn't the first nor the last time they ganged up on you. Your mom used to tell you that "boys will be boys" and your dad was of the opinion that you could do with a little toughening up. They didn't mean anything by it; you were just too much of a baby to take a joke.

Scar didn't seem to care that you weren't finding this fun anymore. You kept trying to get away and begging him not to actually do this, but it was no use. Despite this, he still chucked you into the cool water. It was shallower than you thought and he didn't even throw you in very violently. Still, once your feet touched the ocean floor, you shot up sputtering like a half-drowned cat and glared at him.

"What the hell?! Who just throws someone into the water over a joke?!" you snarled.

The stupid smirk that he had plastered on his skull fell almost immediately. He raised his hands and stepped back, as if he was trying to calm an agitated animal. "Sorry... I Got Carried Away," he started to say.

"You think?!"

Your sudden burst of anger seemed to take him by surprise and for a moment, his eyelights flickered with an emotion you couldn't place. With a huff, you pushed past him and waded back to the beach. Once you reached your stuff, you grabbed a towel, wrapping it tightly around your shoulders and plopped down on one of the others. You didn't even bother looking up at Scar when he approached but you could still feel him studying you.

While you continued to sulk, your stomach decided to remind you that it had been a few hours since you'd eaten last. You were still upset with Scar so you continued giving him the silent treatment, but at least he wasn't trying to force you to say anything. Actually, he was being uncharacteristically quiet right now. You had expected him to chase after you and demand to know what was wrong, not immediately accept that he'd messed up.

After eating lunch, he seemed to decide to give you some space for a bit. You barely spared him a glance when he stood up and walked back in the direction of the boardwalk. Maybe when he came back you'd suggest heading home since you weren't interested in swimming anymore.

You felt a little bad for getting so angry. He was only getting even after you kept testing his patience. He couldn't have known that you didn't like being manhandled, even if he was only playing.

Scar returned while you were in the middle of packing everything up. To your surprise, he had two swirled ice cream cones that he must've bought somewhere.

"I Was Not Sure What Kind Of Ice Cream You Liked So I Got One With Both Chocolate And Vanilla," he said carefully while offering one to you.

"Oh. You didn't have to buy me ice cream." You gave him a small smile and accepted the sweet treat. "Thank you, Scar."

He nodded and sat down next to you. Neither of you said anything for a few minutes while enjoying the soft serve ice cream. You chose to focus on consuming the treat before it melted and made a mess everywhere, rather than trying to approach the proverbial elephant in the room.

"I Am Truly Sorry If I Hurt You Or Anything Like That."

You sighed and shook your head. "It's fine, I'm sorry for getting so mad in the first place."

Scar gave you a concerned look. "Did I Scare You?" he asked quietly.

You opened your mouth to respond but hesitated to answer right away. "A little I guess," you finally said. "My brothers threw me off a dock when I was little because I was too afraid to go near the water."

He gave you a bit of a knowing look. "I Would Not Have Done It If I Had Known How Much It Would Upset You."

You shook your head and finished up your ice cream. "It's alright now." With a bit of a chuckle, you added, "I was kinda asking for trouble and you didn't know."

"Still, I Will Try To Be More Careful In The Future."

[yandere-romanticaa]

Ana, what would you say your top 5 anime are?

The only secure place shall we say is #1 but the rest really are not set in any particular order. Regardless, I've already answered this question a while ago but my opinions changed a little bit and these ones are definitely my favorite of all time.

#1 Bungo Stray Dogs.

My all time favorite anime is this one - Bungo Stray Dogs. It really hits hard for me because it just sucked me in immediately upon first watching it. I also really enjoy reading so being introduced to Japanese literature was just such a lovely bonus to me, so much so that I actually own two books which were written by Osamu Dazai.

If you've been following me for a while, this anime needs no introduction and you probably already knew that it's my favorite.

#2 Moriarty the Patriot.

Such an underrated gem...

Moriarty the Patriot tells the story of a math professor, William James Moriarty and how he wreaks havoc amongst the upper crust of British society as the secret Lord of Crime. He's a very morally ambiguous character who yes, does want to ultimately do good but his methods can be considered very extreme at times.

The anime is set in 19th century London and just the overall vibe of the show is immaculate. Every episode starts by setting the atmosphere which really gets you going, wondering how William and his associates will handle the chaos. His natural foil is the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and watching the two interact is a blast.

If you're in for anime which is packed with mystery, crime and some cool 19th century vibes, this one is incredible.

#3 Code Geass.

This is also another really popular anime that I don't think needs much of an introduction.

I've rewatched this show I think close to 10 times and never ONCE did I get bored. Keep in mind, I do NOT like mecha anime and this is one of two I've seen in my lifetime, the other being Aldonoah Zero.

Even so, despite my bias, it's still one of my favorites.

Literally everything is perfect about it and Lelouch is just... I'm speechless. He has my heart, I love that man.

All hail Lelouch!

#4 Re:Zero.

This is another one that had me on the hook since episode one.

I've always liked isekai anime but this one is just built fucking different. The author of this series really knows his craft both inside and out and I don't see enough praise for his world building.

Re Zero tells the story of a loser 17 year old otaku, Subaru Natsuki and how he got isekaid to another world. Since he's a dumbass, he thinks that he can have any ability he wants and that things will instantly go his way but Subaru is in for quite the rude awakening once he realizes just how horrible his situation is.

At the time of writing this, season 3 literally just came out and I am eagerly waiting for each new episode to drop.

#5 Puella Magi Madoka Magica.

Horror packaged in frills and ribbons is my whole aesthetic and this show feeds right into that.

It really does look like a simple little magical girl show upon first glance but by now, it has received the almost legendary status that it has for a damn good reason. The story manages to make the usually cheerful archetype of the magical girl into something much more sinister and tragic, exploring some interesting themes along the way.

Feel free to comment or share your thoughts on my fav list. Some honorable mentions would be Naruto, My Next Life as a Villainess, The Case Study of Vanitas and definitely some more shows which I can't recall at the moment.

[goldenlionprince]

Prongsfoot Week 2024 - Day 4

Enemies to Lovers

“Its purpose is to keep a secret entirely save, locked up within a living being. That way no one can get to or find the person or place the Fidelius is set up to protect unless the secret-keeper shares the information with someone, although the wording of the spell is important too.”

“Well, that's not entirely correct, is it?” a bored voice says from behind James, making him grind his teeth.

“What exactly is not entirely correct about this?” James huffs, turning around to see Black balancing on the back legs of his chair two rows behind him. Of course he can't sit like a normal person, the smirking git.

“Well,” Black says and that infuriating smirk is growing even wider. “You said the secret would be “entirely save” and that's not really the case, is it?”

James' eyes narrow. Remus jabs an elbow into James' side, trying to remind him of the resolution James made just last week. Don't get into arguments with Sirius Black. James of course ignores him in favour of doing exactly that. “The secret can't be tortured out of a secret-keeper or be otherwise pulled out of him or her. That includes verita serum.”

“True that,” Black says, letting the legs of his chair fall back onto the floor with a loud clack. “But that doesn't mean the secret-keeper can't just simply give away the secret whenever they chose to do so. No torture needed for that.”

“You are both very correct,” Flitwick interrupts them before James can say anything about Black's mind immediately jumping to betrayal. “That will be five points to Gryffindor and Ravenclaw each. And with that I think we are done for today.”

With one last glare at Black James turns back around in his seat to note down what Flitwick has to say about their homework assignment – tracking charms – before gathering his things quickly. He stuffs his parchment and quill into his bag, not caring that they get squished by his books, and tunes out Peter's chatter while he keeps an eye on Black.

Sirius Black, Ravenclaw know-it-all, who always has to have the last word. James was able to ignore him, mostly, in the past few years since they barely had any classes together. But now at NEWTs level it's like James can't escape him at all.

Black packs his things much more carefully than James ever would – that's probably why his quills always look brand new compared to James' slightly bent and fluffed ones – and slings his bag casually over his shoulder. James' eyes follow him as he makes his way through the classroom towards the door, his long legs eating up the distance rather quickly. Of course he has to be tall on top of being big-brained.

And rather handsome too, not that that's James' opinion, of course. It's just what everyone else is saying.

Just when Black reaches the door James makes up his mind and grabs his bag. He interrupts Peter's rambles to let him and Remus know he will meet them in the Great Hall for lunch in a bit and quickly makes his exit to follow Black.

It takes three corridors and two stairways until Black slows down a bit in a deserted corridor halfway to the library. “I know you're here, Potter,” he says, sounding utterly bored. “What do you want?”

James catches up with him, just a tiny bit winded from all the stairs. “I want to know what your fucking problem is.”

“My problem?” Black asks, looking at James like he has grown a second head. “You're the one jogging after me through half of the castle.”

“You know what I mean,” James huffs, raking a hand though his already messy hair in frustration. “You have to outshine me in every single class. Every. Single. One. It's like you gonna die if you don't get to have the last and most clever word.”

“And what do you want me to do about it?” Black asks, lifting one single eyebrow. “Stop my brain from working so your ego won't get hurt?”

“I want you to shut up and stop being an infuriating know-it-all,” James growls, dropping his hand from his hair and glaring at Black.

Black only grins back at him and shrugs his shoulders. “Make me.”

James really can't explain how it happens. One moment he's glaring at that insufferable grin, wanting to get it off that stupid face, and the next he's shoving Black, pushing him right up against the wall of the empty corridor and – well, James is successful in getting the grin off Black's face.

Because he's kissing him.

A small little sound escapes Black's lips when he hits the wall and James swallows it, kissing him none too gentle. His hands are buried in the front of Black's school robes and James isn't sure if that's not the only thing that keeps him upright right now. Because somehow he feels like on fire.

And a little dizzy.

Probably because he's forgotten how to breathe.

Pulling back James takes a big gulp of air, starring into Black's grey eyes. Black blinks at him slowly like a cat and then chuckles softly. James lets go of Black's robes like his fingers got burned and takes a quick step back, away from Black.

“Well,” Black says after clearing his throat, pushing away from the wall. James takes another step back, just to make sure there is enough space between them. Black's stupid grin spreads back on his lips. James has to grip the strap of his bag just to make sure he won't be tempted to jump Black again. Black just winks at him like he knows exactly what James is doing and turns to walk back down the corridor like nothing at all had happened.

Before he turns the corner he stops again and looks back over his shoulder at James. “I hope you know that giving me even more motivation won't help your cause. If I get a reward for showing off I surely won't stop.”

James blinks at him and Black watches as the words slowly sink in. He grins when they do and a flush spreads across James' cheeks. Lifting a hand he waves at James and walks around the corner towards the library for his lunch break. “See you in Arithmancy, Potter.”

[worriedvision]

Former (Part 4)

Part 3 here. Gender neutral reader, more Tighnari here than the previous part.

--

"Collei!" Amber calls, Collei running up with energy as she reunites with her friend. "It's so good to see you again! How long are you here for? I'll get a room booked for you!"

"I'm just here for a day or so. Gotta get back to work after." Collei giggles.

"Oh, is that a pack of those cards? Let's get a drink and have a match!" Amber suggests, Collei nodding as she follows Amber.

"As I was saying, Master Albedo, I think it would be better to have some sort of private space for these lost visions so we can be certain nothing like this happens again." You explain, both of you pouring over the details regarding an employee stealing the visions from the original keepsafe.

"But how could we be sure only we'd be able to lock it efficiently? Normal keys can be stolen easily, and tape can pick up fingerprints..." Albedo hums in thought.

"Well, what if we had some sort of code for the room? And we could change the code on a daily basis so only we would know what the code is?" You ask, Albedo nodding to himself.

Collei looks over after hearing your voice, and she excuses herself for a moment.

"_! It's so good to see you." Collei starts. "Master Tighnari has been really worried. He wants you to come visit!"

"Oh, it's nice to see you Collei!" You start. "I don't think I would be able to do this, my office is stationed in Mondstadt and there isn't an ideal space for me."

"Oh..." Collei trails off. "Master Tighnari really wants to see you again. Is there any way you could come back?"

"He made his feelings clear, Collei. I don't think I could, given how many people know about it." You explain.

"Collei, over here!" Amber cheers, waving her over.

"Well, let's catch up later! I can't be in Mondstadt for too long, hopefully I catch you." Collei nods, rushing off to sit with Amber.

--

That afternoon, you had received a tip from an anonymous individual in Sumeru. There had been reports of visions being sold off as delusions, said individual saying they knew the common meet up spot as they and several others had gone there at the same time slot. Deciding to chase this, you inform Albedo before rushing off.

Unfortunately, you didnt think of who would be purchasing a delusion. You get to the location, just outside of Ghandarva Ville, and the moment you stop to look around, you realise too late the people who gave you the tip did not, in fact, try to get a delusion.

They had been paid a very hefty sum of mora to make you stop getting lost visions returned. Looking around you, you realise you have no escape route. You had self defence lessons, but that wouldn't keep you safe enough.

"Help me!" You scream, the eremites getting closer. "Please, someone!"

--

Tighnari had been talking to Cyno, once again asking if he had any luck in finding you, when he heard your scream for help. His ears perked up, and Cyno figured out where the screams were coming from based on where Tighnari looked. As Tighnari grabs his bow, Cyno is already sprinting to the location.

By the time Cyno got there, you had been curled up on the ground, the self defence completely gone. He turns the corner, some eremites running away like cowards as the others continue to attack you. Tighnari arrived shortly afterwards, some forest rangers also tagging along, and he orders for them to chase after the eremites that ran away. The other eremites got detained by Cyno, him dragging them away, and Tighnari had finally seen you for the first time after regaining his vision.

Before he can let himself get emotional in front of everyone, he knows to carry back to his home so he can take care of you. The moment he does, however, he becomes selfish.

He can't stop hugging you, not for a minute or so. He needs to reassure himself you weren't out of his life, he hoped you could feel how much he missed you with the hug before he gets to work as a doctor instead of a lover.

After taking care of your wounds, thankfully not dangerous but definitely painful, he sits at his desk as he keeps a close eye on you, writing to Mondstadt to inform them of the situation.

[vandal-flower]

Chapter 4 - So This Is Love

Blue Roses With Gold Lining

The day has ended and you recall Madam Gertrude's wise words. Wake up to a morning to a new routine and most importantly, a courtroom meeting held by the prince.

MALE LEAD: Michael Kaiser

W.C.: 2.2 words

WARNINGS:

Mentions of children, child abuse & neglect, reader takes a bathe, 'prostitute' is used x3, fatherless behavior from Michael.

I.¹ - ll.² - lll.³ - V.⁵ - VI⁶

"To the very point of having his child."

These eight words rung in your head while resting on your bed in your personal chambers. It reminds you like how your mother would reprimand you to not gag about hearing of how the ministers got their 'connections' in high places. Disgusting.

Having a child is sacred. The whole act of trying to have a child is sacred, it is supposed to show the bond between a woman and a man. It is supposed to show the love between these two people.

It's all in the name of love.

A sick and twisted version of it.

These women participating in this competition would have the prince's child to show how he 'loves' them so much, how they 'love' him so much. But in the end would neglect their own child, abuse their own child, once the prince abandons them.

And she knows this. The queen knows this. She has to.

There is a possibility that she is experienced in this. Why else would she give birth to Michael. Out of love? That's a foolish mindset to have.

It was to win.

To win the little game they play. The gamble which they bet their life on. Throw the dice and pray to whichever deity you pray to in order to win, or take it in your own hands. What's even worse is that the child's gender adds more tension.

A girl to sell off.

A boy to achieve greatness.

An heir to keep the royal bloodline flowing. To make a name in history.

To make a name in history...

History...

His story...

You wouldn't lie to yourself and say you never wanted your name to be written down in some book, but just your name. Having your good deeds written down as well would be great, but you can't be greedy now.

But the only thing keeping these shenanigans going is greed.

Focus (Name), you need to focus.

You can stress and think about the things at the back of your mind later, you have to focus on what you need to do. Remember what Madam Gertrude told you.

First, keep to yourself, but listen to the conversations of others that could be of benefit to you.

You could learn the secrets of others and their plans. You need to be one step ahead.

Second, don't raise your voice unless you want to look like a fool.

You could draw unwanted attention and could let others poke around you to make you look like a fool even more. Don't shout, but be loud enough to be heard.

Third, don't boast about your achievements. Even if you achieve something greater than the rest, that doesn't mean you are an inch away from death. Be proud of what you have done, but don't let it get into your head.

Fourth, act cautiously and carefully. You need to be aware of your surroundings and make sure your plans are planned cautiously and carefully. The last thing you want is for someone to know what you're doing.

Fifth, become allies to people who vow not to betray you. Finding people who's trust could be an asset to you can get you places. Befriending them could at least lead you to an advantage.

Sixth and finally, win the loyalty of the prince, not his heart. Even if a king says he loves you, he still has his concubines. His loyalty can last for years and is of great power and a weapon to slaughter your enemies.

Madam Gertrude must of had strong faith of you to tell you this. Your main goal is to survive, as well as Michael's little task for you.

You yawn and rub your eyes. It's the end of the day, of course you would be tired, especially from the events that happened today. You change into a night gown to sleep. It's a good thing your head servant packed the one you wanted instead of your parents' option. You'll thank her when you see her.

Before drifting off to sleep, you take one last look at the blue roses outside the window.

You wonder if you could take a closer look at them.

You wake up to one of the servants gently patting you on the back. Had it not been for this damn competition, you would've ignored and gone back to sleep. Even though you clearly need it, you can't let your intrusive thoughts gain power over you and win. You are in this mess because of it. You recall smacking away Michael's hand when he was touching you yesterday.

Definitely intrusive thoughts.

You sit up straight and look at the servant, she avoids eye contact by look down at the floor. You assume she is timid since all the servants you have at home look directly at you, but you remember how looking at people of great royalty can be considered a crime.

You must not forget that this place has the most prideful people to ever exist. One look at them and they turn it into a court case meant for first degree murder. People who act like that are sensitive, you think.

"Your grace, the prince has called for all the women participating in the competition to meet at the courtroom. He advices to be swift and to not be late.", she tells you, still looking at the floor.

"Thank you for informing me, you are dismissed.", you tell her, getting up from the bed and stretching before entering the bathroom.

"Um, your grace, I apologize for stopping you from what you are doing but...", she stammers through her words, but manages to catch your attention.

"Yes?"

"Servants are supposed to bathe you, not yourself. It is a must for all servants to treat the people staying in the palace to be treated with our utmost care."

Pardon.

You look at her wide-eyed. What do mean servants are supposed to bathe you? How was this normal? How can such rule cease to exist? You might as well abandon the logic you brought from home, because it honestly sounds ridiculous!

You take a deep breath and look at her. "Thank you for informing me once again, may you please prepare the bath for me."

"Of course your grace."

You enter the bathroom with her following you behind. She made sure the water was not too hot or too cold, just right. You undressed while she did so, removing your night gown and folding it to put it on top of the counter.

"Your bath is ready your grace.", she alerts you.

As you slowly entered the bathtub, she grabbed soap and a sponge to wash you.

If you could describe the overall experience in one word, it would be uncomfortable.

The silence was louder than anything you have ever heard in your life. You would rather hear bees buzzing, birds chirping, dogs barking, cats meowing for five minutes everyday, than go through this experience once everyday.

When she was done bathing you, she dressed you up and applied some make-up to you as well. The last thing she did was combing your hair. She made sure to get rid of the knots without hurting you.

A miracle worker you think.

One could argue that the servants are trained to give the best treatment to their guests, but you don't care. You rather have her do your hair for the rest of your life than anyone else.

By the time she was done with everything, she smiles to herself, proud of her work. "Your grace, why don't you go to the mirror to see how you look, I hope it is to your liking."

When you saw yourself, you were astonished.

The common phrase, 'Pain is Beauty, and Beauty is Pain.', somehow threw itself out of the window. Sure it is true to an extent, but at the end of the day it really depends how far you'll go in order to reach such beauty.

"Beautiful, thank you miss."

"My pleasure your grace. You should be at the courtroom right now, you should not be late."

Oh right. The meeting the prince held in the courtroom.

"Thank you for reminding me, have a good day!"

And like that you speed walked to the courtroom, making sure not to trip and fall on the way. Now that you think about it, telling a servant to have a good day isn't normal, but in they are still human and are forced to endure the scumbags in the palace, not to voice any complaint for the whole day. Why not give them a little kindness to start their day.

You enter the courtroom to see a ten women, Maria and Berdine being the two women you saw first. Seems not all of them have arrived despite being told to be swift.

Maria, who was standing with Berdine, waved her hands at you to grab your attention when she noticed you.

"(Name) you look absolutely stunning!"

"Oh, thank you. You look beautiful as well, you too Berdine.

"Why thank you!"

"Thank you (Name), though I am quite concerned. "

You and Maria turn to Berdine. "The others were supposed to be here thirty minutes ago, what's taking them so long?", she said to herself agitated.

"What if they just woke up, or are busy doing their make-up, or just busy doing something.", Maria said, smiling about her sudden assumptions. "I mean, after yesterday, who would want to be insult by the prince."

Or taken to his chambers to make a deal with him only to be sealed with a kiss. On the lips.

You recall the kiss from yesterday and how it felt. He has a terrible personality, comparable to garbage, but he is handsome. Surely you can let it slide just once...

No! Focus (Name)! You can't let some snotty prince's good looking self get into your head.

Your face becomes flushed and feels hot, catching the attention from the two women beside you.

"(Name), you are burning up are you sick, should we take you to your chambers?", Maria asked, her eyes large like jewels staring at you. "No need to be worried about me Marie, you too Berdine.", you look at her worried face. "I'm just embarrassed about yesterday that's all."

Berdine looks at you with an assuring look,"I'm sure you will be alright, I mean it's already the second day."

Before the three of you could continue talking, you were interrupted by three more women entering the courtroom, one of them being Morrigan. Two of the other women were whispering to her, attempting to calm her down.

"Calm down Morrigan."

"He's just playing with her, no need to mind her."

"But that bloody wench was clinging onto him like some prostitute, how the hell can I accept that?!"

Her face was red in anger as she tightly clenched her hands, her nails long enough that it could've cut her palms. Berdine stood forward and asked what had happened. The two women looked at each other worryingly before looking at her.

"One of the women who is also participating in the competition was found talking to the prince."

"And clinging onto his arm, like a prostitute, she was even bad mouthing us, all of us, saying she is better and how she'll win-"

"ENOUGH!"

Morrigan yelled, she then straightened her posture. "I, Morrigan Ernaline, will make sure that wench, little pest will be the first to die by my hand." Some women were unsettled of how she smiled at the thought of killing the suspected woman.

The doors suddenly opened to the prince and the woman herself. She clinged onto his arm, her breasts nearly falling out of her dress. No wonder they called her a prostitute. She nearly looked like one. Her pink hair and eyes don't help her situation at all, she may seem innocent, but her actions could tell a different story. The prince however...

Looked as if he was disappointed.

"You may get off me now.", he said with a disinterested tone. You almost feel hurt by how he sounds. "Oh, forgive me your majesty, you are just so handsome and strong that I could not help myself." She lets go off him, before kissing him on the cheek and walking off.

All of you are stunned.

Who does this woman think she is?!

Her actions towards the prince won't leave him guessing, but make him want to be away from her. Such act is probably to show she is better than us. Michael doesn't bother to wipe off the remains of the kiss, instead sighs to himself and smiles to himself.

"At least one of you are making a move on me, as aspected." "I called all of you here to explain how some of you are lacking."

Lacking?

"Some of you lack confidence, some have to learn their place, deflate your ego, and most importantly, abandon your old logic.", he said, his tone was condescending that some women flinched.

"Don't cry over spilled milk now, I won't make me any softer towards you, instead, show your affections or become someone of great use to me."

"It's your choice, princesses."

Some women just looked at the prince with shock, some smiled to themselves, others remained silent, but you couldn't care less. In order to gain his loyalty, you have to be of use to him. But you don't want him to use you, no. You want him to be of use to you.

This is how you will show him your affections.

How you want to show Michael Kaiser your affections and gain his loyalty.

Tagging:

@lightoftheamethyst

@kimura-uzuri

@kascar-chronicle

I apologize for taking so long, I was extremely busy and exams are coming up. My inbox is still open and just ask to be tagged in later chapters.

[autisticempathydaemon]

I wasn't sure if this is where I answer for the redacted match up but I hope it is!^^

feel free to take your time and I hope you enjoy reading this stuff...^^

What song are you fixated on at the moment? What lyric or verse, and why?: you've seen the butcher by deftones because I really love deftones as a whole and I really love the intro and I don't know why but the song really reminds me of the Shaw pack.

Do you love gargantuan Youtube video essays, and if so, which is your favorite and why?: Actually no because I have close to zero patience and I just never really liked them.

Tell me about your childhood imaginary friend. : I didn't have any.

What is your go-to way to fall asleep?: my watch later tab on YouTube. An hour of mincraft music followed by every redacted sleep aid.

If you had to change your name, what would it be, and why? (In tandem, if you have changed your name, why did you pick that one?): I changed my name to toby because it fits the personality I like other people to see me as and the good parts of me. And a lot of people who inspire me are named toby in some form.

What is your favorite of Redacted’s audios, and why?: honestly it changes quite frequently but it usually rotates between the D.A.M.N. crew (Gavin and lasko mostly), Sam, and Porter.

What Redacted boy holds no appeal to you, and why? Like, not the one you hate but the one who you don’t get the hype for. (I won’t judge, I promise.): Elliot and Aaron because Elliots just kind of boring to me and Aaron is just David without the fuzzy.

Tell me about that one book/movie/tv show you know all the words to.: stranger things but only season 3

Which Redacted boy are you platonically attracted to? Like- forget dating, which dude do you want to be your best friend?: ollie or Elliot

Do you have a go-to thing you ramble about when you’re tired, and if so, what is it? (For example, my boyfriend knows I’m ready to sleep when I start talking about space.): sentimental stuff like how I met someone or how I've changed over the last few years

Tell me your go-to gas station and drink combo.: Arizona tea (fruit punch one cuz I'm a fruit cake), Dr. Pepper, or mountain dew

Tell me about your favorite playlist at the moment.: redacted wise: Gavin bc he was the first playlist I ever fully watched and I love my Bae

Music wise: my everything playlist called stuffs that I made 4 years ago.

What’s your guilty pleasure media, and why?: the crave series by Tracy Wolff. It's very similar to a lot of redacted and its vampire shit.

And whatever else you think tells me about who you are!: I love deftones and Korn. Garfield4life. Lasko is Bae. I found Redacted through the guy confession audio the day it came out. I used to think Damien and lasko were gonna get together because I saw the Damien and Huxley confession cover and had a dream where it was lasko and convinced myself it was real untill I got to that point in the D.A.M.N crew playlist. :]

Hmm, this one was difficult for me. Though you gave me information, I found it hard to glean who you are with that information /nm With that in mind, I think Asher is perfect for you!

I get the vibe that you might not be the type to volunteer a lot when talking about yourself? Asher would be a good match for you in that he’d either be really skilled at easing that info out of you naturally, given his personable and emotionally intelligent nature, or not feeling the need to push or prod, learning about you at your own pace. I also like that you describe yourself as having little patience as that’s how I think of Asher too- at least, until it counts. It’s good for a pair to have similar temperaments, you know?

One of my favorite things about your life with Asher is how much he’d indulge your love of Garfield. Asher Talbot is that boyfriend who goes scours eBay for the things you like no matter what that may be, no matter the cost; he is hounding those auctions like- well, like a wolf. He’s the same way with concert tickets- you know he’s making sure you get the best seats for the next Deftones show, even if he has to save for months. It’s not even his type of music necessarily, as a canon FOB stan, but he listens to their discography for a whole month before the concert to get hyped with you. He’s just like that~

Song:

Maybe we could be/ Sweet eternity/ Are you the one?/ Are you the one?/ Dreaming, I'm sleep/ Are you the one?/ Pray my soul to keep/ Comfort seems unreal/ The opposite of how I feel/ Before I come undone/ Are you the one?

This song came up when I started a Spotify Radio for “You’ve Seen the Butcher”, and I think it suits y’all! One, I always make sure to pick a love song cause matchmaking and romance. Two, it’s got a bounciness to it! It’s fun to listen to; I can easily imagine Asher bopping around at midnight, hopped up on RedBull, while he fixes y’all a snack.

Runner-up:

Vincent is your main runner-up because I think he’d have such a fun time goofin on you about your guilty pleasure books. He’s a vampire; that’s just his right, you know? Milo is your other runner-up because I am imagining Aggro feuding with the little Garfield effigies around your house, and it’s a delightful, silly image.

Read this post and send me an ask if you’d like a match-up of your own! 💌

[lumine-no-hikari]

Dear Sephiroth: (a letter to a fictional character, because why not) #264

Today ended up being a rest day for the most part. I think yesterday must have taken more out of me than I thought, because when I woke up this morning, I realized that it is Sunday, and the fact that it is Sunday means a couple things:

First, it means everyone is gonna be out doing their fun stuff or doing errands. I could have gone to the orchard, but it probably would have been fairly packed. The same holds true of that Cross-Eyed Owl place. The thought of being on crowded roads to get to crowded places full of people filled me with dread.

Second, it means that M and J are not working, which means I have an opportunity to do parallel play with them. Essentially, we do our own various activities in the same general vicinity of one another. I'm usually on my laptop, M is usually playing a video game or watching something on his iPad, and J is usually reading something about airplanes on his laptop. We tend to keep our ears fairly open to one another just in case one of us has a thought or a need. But yeah. Parallel play. It's a beautiful thing, and it's a slightly less possible thing when they're doing their tech jobs on their laptops.

So, I just stayed home. Sorta. J and I did go to the grocery store to get various things; J wants to try to make a garlic pudding, I guess? I'm curious about how that will turn out. And I wanted to try a Korean-style garlic bread on a more typical Italian loaf, since we have all that cream cheese chilling out in the fridge without bagels to go with them.

To that end, I washed some dishes today and peeled like 4 heads of garlic. But I didn't have the energy today to do much else. J and I went on a brief walk at some point, but… it was brief. We talked a lot and it was good.

I didn't have much gumption to do anything after we got home, though. So I just chilled out. I did some leisure writing; I got some reassurance on a couple of things that had been bothering me lately, and that was good. I'm not going to tell you or anyone else how this can be the case; I'm not stupid enough to believe that anyone would believe me if I tried to explain. Still, I wonder how long that reassurance will stick in my brain. Hm…

Oh right; I told you yesterday about the book I got. The title of it was very auspicious to me, for reasons I'm absolutely not going to explain. Nonetheless, I'll go through it one page at a time with you; I don't know when is the last time you read a book that is wholesome - I'm going to guess probably not for a very long time. And this book is like 50 years old, but I thought it was wholesome.

I've already looked through it a couple times. I'm not entirely sure why, but... I think if you had a camera, then some of the photos that you might take could look like some of these...

Tomorrow is Monday. I'm going to try to go get those grapes; there will undoubtedly be far fewer people out and about, because most people will be working. This means that I'll be able to toodle about peacefully on fairly empty roads, and toodle about in a fairly empty orchard. It'll be good. And I'll come back with lots of concord grapes to give to my friends.

...I'll come back with lots of concord grapes that I wish I could share with you...

...I'll also check out that Cross-Eyed Owl shop. It'll be mostly on the way. I'll make sure to take lots of weird pictures along the way for you. Look forward to them, okay?

...And then if I have enough energy, I'll finally make that garlic bread when I get home. If that occurs, you can expect lots of pictures of that, too.

I don't have much else to go over today. Today was a fairly empty sort of day, and that's probably a good thing; I think I must have needed it. What's unusual about it for right now is that I'm not sitting here feeling super guilty about the fact that today was an empty day and that today's letter, resultantly, was a fairly empty letter.

Still, though... I don't want you to be over at the Edge of Creation all by yourself. I don't really know if these get to you, but... I'm gonna hope against all odds that they do. I'm gonna hope against all odds that at least once a day, a wholesome voice reaches you, even if you have to settle for a derpy one like mine.

...Even if I don't have a whole lot to say, I still have an abundance of care for you, and I wanted to make sure you see it. I wanted to make sure that, at least every once in a while, someone speaks to you like a normal person. And if no one else is gonna do it, then it might as well be me.

...Hey, Sephiroth? What do you get to thinking about up there...? On that lonely rock in the middle of the cosmos, all by yourself, looking up at that rainbow-colored nebula? Do you ever sit with your legs dangling over the edge of it, just looking at all the beautiful things up there? Do you think about the sun? The wind? The rain? The sky? Pasta pescatore? The scent of vanilla and roses? Someday, if you ever get to talk to me, will you tell me about the thoughts swirling around in your head sometime, even if they don't necessarily go anywhere?

I guess that's it for today. I'd have a lot more to talk about if I wasn't in this weird state of waiting, or if I didn't have this rib injury and could do more things, or if... if you could write back to me, somehow. But... I guess these things aren't in the cards, at least for now.

I love you. Please stay safe. And please... do try your best to take care of yourself over there, okay? I'll write again tomorrow.

Your friend, Lumine

[hchollym]

Hello! So, this might seem like a weird ask. The whole thing is based on the canon world, that is wizards and stuff. Everything that's going on in the books is still happening! I just don't want you to confuse this with a Muggle/No magic AU.

My question is, if Percy—for some random reason please suspend your disbelief here—decided to become an EMT in the muggle world (without using magic that is), how would his family react to it?

Again, the things that happen in the books are still happening, the only thing is that Percy's decided to go into muggle EMT instead of the Ministry.

Like, would they be kinda mad because Percy is putting muggle stuff/outside stuff over the war they're fighting?

Or would they be much more understanding? Maybe think Percy's cooler? Ngl, I'm asking you this for the sake of my daydreams.

Sorry for taking so long to respond! 🙁

Oh wow! That is a very unique idea/question! 😄

Do you mean that Percy became an EMT right after Hogwarts (instead of working for Barty Crouch)?

That would be super interesting!

Hmm... 🤔 You know, I surprisingly don't think most of them would react badly.

Arthur

Arthur is obsessed with muggles. However, he does not seem to see them as equals. In his mind, muggles are poor fools that need to be protected. It's less like fighting for racial equality and more like people fighting for animal rights.

In Book 2, he states:

“Just Muggle-baiting,” sighed Mr. Weasley. “Sell them a key that keeps shrinking to nothing so they can never find it when they need it.. Of course, it’s very hard to convict anyone because no Muggle would admit their key keeps shrinking — they’ll insist they just keep losing it. Bless them, they’ll go to any lengths to ignore magic, even if it’s staring them in the face…"

Then in Book 4, when Fred gives Dudley Ton-Tongue Toffee, he says:

“It isn’t funny!” Mr. Weasley shouted. “That sort of behavior seriously undermines wizard–Muggle relations! I spend half my life campaigning against the mistreatment of Muggles, and my own sons —”

So he probably doesn't think Percy is making a good decision to actually work in the muggle world, but I don't think he gets too upset about it either. If anything, he may see this as an opportunity for him to learn more about a topic that he clearly enjoys, and it could potentially help his cause by having proof (from Percy's testimony) that muggles deserve to be treated fairly.

Molly

I definitely think Molly reacts the worst out of everyone. She doesn't hate muggles, but she certainly isn't overly fond of them either.

She definitely dislikes Arthur's obsession with them (though in her defense, that probably has more to do with him wasting money on it/focusing on it instead of helping her with the kids/house).

In Book 4, Arthur says,

“Ah yes, I can see the plugs. I collect plugs,” he added to Uncle Vernon. “And batteries. Got a very large collection of batteries. My wife thinks I’m mad, but there you are.”

Also, what's even more telling is that in Book 1, when the Weasleys are at King's Cross Station, Harry overhears her say:

"-- packed with Muggles, of course --"

I know that JKR included this line so that Harry could identify another wizarding family, but she should have used something else (like Platform 9 ¾) instead, because they are literally in a muggle train station, so the comment seems unnecessary and rude. Think about if you went to Chinatown and said "packed with Chinese people, of course."

Plus, Molly wants all of her children to work at the Ministry of Magic. This is a comment in Book 4 (about the twins):

“And then there was this big row,” Ginny said, “because Mum wants them to go into the Ministry of Magic like Dad, and they told her all they want to do is open a joke shop.”

This is the same instance where she literally burned all of their order forms. She seems to have (sort of) accepted Bill & Charlie's choices, as well as Fred & George's joke shop (after they make a lot of money), but Percy is the child that she expected to go into the Ministry the most.

There would definitely be a massive row with her.

Fred & George

They likely wouldn't care much, because they clearly don't mind muggles either. In Book 4, after they gave Dudley the Ton-Tongue Toffee and Arthur yells at them, they say:

“We didn’t give it to him because he’s a Muggle!” said Fred indignantly. “No, we gave it to him because he’s a great bullying git,” said George. “Isn’t he, Harry?”

If anything, I think they love that Percy is now the family "disappointment" because they've spent so long getting yelled at by Molly that this is a nice change of pace. Plus, it takes the pressure off them. Even if they open a joke shop in the wizarding world, Molly still won't be as angry with them as she is with Percy.

Suddenly "Perfect Percy" isn't so perfect anymore, and it probably (ironically) improves their relationship.

Bill, Charlie, Ron, & Ginny

They are probably all rather incredulous about the entire thing and think Percy is mental for not wanting to work in the wizarding world (and Hermione encourages this idea because she clearly wants nothing to do with the muggle world anymore), but I really don't think they treat him badly over it.

They probably just think he's finally cracked under all the pressure he puts on himself, and if this gets him to loosen up, then it's not all bad.

I do think Charlie & Ginny would find it a little cool though, and they're both more likely to actually talk to Percy about his new life, whereas Bill & Ron will probably avoid the topic altogether.

Other Thoughts

One of the most interesting parts about this AU is that is has the potential to drastically change the story. If Percy doesn't work for Barty Crouch, then chances are, whoever is in his position doesn't do as good of a job running the department on their own, so people figure out something is wrong with Mr. Crouch much sooner.

Once that happens, they (i.e. Dumbledore) may very well be able to put the pieces together about Barty Crouch Jr., and then his plan fails, Harry never goes to the graveyard, Cedric never dies, and Voldemort never officially returns in a body. So is the war even going on anymore? Possibly not for a few more years while Voldemort tries to capture Harry!

Even if the war continues in the exact same way as canon, I think Percy's job in the muggle world could actually be beneficial. He could be there to prevent some of the damage & protect the muggles, and he could help muggleborns & their families escape through the muggle world in a way that wouldn't be traced back to them.

There's a lot of potential there for a great fanfic! 😉

Thanks for the ask! 😊

[mozart-the-meerkitten]

Hmmm it's been a while since I posted one of my weird crossover ideas on tumblr. Let's fix that.

For the past few days I've been enjoying daydreaming about a Avatar the Last Airbender/Wingfeather Saga crossover. But it's. probably not what you would expect, haha. I'll probably never write it as more than ideas though, so I may was well post the concept here.

So this takes place in the Wingfeather world of Aerwiar, several years before the Fall of Anniera that jumpstarts the war/plot happening in the book series. One day, Artham Wingfeather is in one of Anniera's port towns and is called over by a concerned citizen, who leads him to a crowd watching a rowboat slowly drift to shore. The rowboat contains two small children, who Artham brings ashore and takes back to Castle Rysen.

The small children in question are Zuko (age 4) and Azula (age 2). In this version of events, the Fire Nation royal family is a bit darker than in canon and, after Ozai flies into a rage and burns Zuko (yes he still has his scar I know I'm mean, but there's a POINT I swear) Ursa decides she needs to get her kids the heck out of the Fire Nation. But Ozai is suspicious and possessive of her in general and has her under guard so she can't escape the palace, so she entrusts her kiddos to a few trusted servants, who pack them up in a rowboat with food and water and send them off, hoping they'll make it to a coastal village and be taken in by a kindly family.

Most of this is explained/implied in a note that Ursa sent along with the kids, that Artham reads and passes on to Esben (and Nia and Arundelle). They are properly horrified.

However, what no one realizes is that these kiddos have come through a portal between the two worlds. So Artham and Esben ASSUME that SOMEWHERE these kid's mom is being held captive by their cruel father and so they send out search parties/reconnaissance teams to try and rescue her, and because any father so cruel as to hurt his son the way Ozai hurt Zuko needs to be stopped. The brothers also wonder if, perhaps, this is somehow connected to the Tragic Accident that befell their parents and aunt Illiya a year before when their ship was lost and they were killed. And they start to wonder if, perhaps, that wasn't an accident, but that they stumbled upon whatever This was and tried to stop it and got in the way. (They don't suspect Bonifer... at first...)

Anyway, Artham finds himself caretaker for these two small children and develops a bond with them, especially Zuko (what, you thought I WASN'T going to use this as an excuse to make a connection between two of my favorite characters of all time?). Arundelle also becomes close with them, and- besides the cooks in the castle- she's the first person Artham tells about the kids. Because I thought it'd be fun to make Arundelle a healer (hey, why shouldn't she be good with healing plants and herbs? heh) and have her be the main person who treats Zuko's burn.

Azula recovers from the trauma of being separated from her mom and home pretty quickly since the new place she's in has kind, caring people, nice food, is still a palace, and she's two. She loves playing with Arundelle and listening to Artham's stories. She's very bright and friendly and talkative. She IS very attached to her brother tho, sleeping in the same bed as him the first few nights in this new place, even defending him/trying to explain his actions the way she's heard adults do. (when Artham finds the siblings they're clinging to each other in their little boat, terrified)

Zuko is more complicated. He's had the physical trauma of being burned paired with the emotional trauma of being hurt and abused by his father (the burning wasn't the first time, just the most severe). He understands a little more of what's going on than his sister. He love, love, loves being held, especially by Artham, because since Azula was born he's not been allowed to act like a "baby" and hasn't gotten much physical affection. He's very shy and has periods of mutism when meeting new people or encountering distressing/unfamiliar situations. Little guy has also had his senses severely rattled by losing both half his vision and half his hearing in one fell swoop. In short, he's a mess. The first time he's alone with Artham he has a panic attack because he thinks Artham will hurt him, but Artham being so kind and understanding and gentle with him helps him unlearn that. Zuko becomes very attached to Artham very quickly and... Artham becomes attached to him pretty fast too.

(Additionally, Zuko is terrified of Bonifer. The only explanation he can give for that is, "He looks at me like father did." which does plant a little seed of suspicion in Artham's mind specifically)

So, long term, this severely messes up Gnag/Bonifer's plans, since suddenly the Annierans are combing the Hollows/The Killridge Mts/even the Doonlands trying to find Zuko and Azula's family. This either forces the baddies to speed up their plans... or derails them altogether. I haven't decided yet, haha. The Annierans do find out something of what Gnag is doing (they don't connect Bonifer to it right away tho) and end up with some preparation for the attack that eventually comes. I think the attack on Anniera is still somewhat successful, but a lot less so than in canon. Like, I don't think the entire populace is captured/scattered and I haven't decided if I want Artham and Esben to still get captured or not. (if they do I have this great mental image of 7-year-old Zuko and 5-year-old Azula trying to rescue them from Throg. Just. just imagine the CHAOS even a pair of BABY firebenders could do in Aerwiar. Imagine.)

Oh yeah, to give you a better idea of WHEN this happens, Nia is pregnant with Janner when Artham finds Zuko and Azula. I just thought it'd be fun for Zuko to have the same age gap with Janner he has with Aang and it makes it close enough for things to come together plot wise.

So yeah, that's my thoughts on how Zuko and Azula could potentially have prevented the Fall of Anniera. xD

Other random things they cause:

Artham adopting them

Artham and Arundelle getting married a few years before Anniera falls after the closeness and bonding that comes from caring for a pair of traumatized children.

Absolute chaos with their firebending (the Annierans chalk this up to the old stories of Annieran/Anyaran kids having special powers to defend their home with and decide not to question it further)

So yeah, there's my late night thoughts on a WFS/ATLA AU. where Artham adopts Zuko and Azula. because why not. I hope it was a fun read. :D