#I will not shut up about the joy napping brings me

[shaykesqueer]

Taking a nap to have a break from being overwhelmed is the human equivalent of turning it off and on again.

Where it is my brain.

[bluecollarmcandtf]

My Son Came Home just the Other Day...

...and I just had to tell him how proud I was! My boy had become a strong young man! I'd been bragging to everyone I knew that my son, Private Joel Bishop, had made it through basic training and was on the way home to see his good old dad! I never knew being a father would bring me such joy, but here I am.

I slapped Joel on the back approvingly and discreetly wiped my eye. Things were getting too 'touchy-feely' for my taste, and we still had a whole night of celebration ahead of us.

"That means a lot, dad," he grinned as I pulled away, "but you deserve the credit. Should I grab some cold ones so we can catch up?"

I smiled, enjoying the humility and respect I had instilled in my son's character. He more than deserved the reward I had planned: dinner an expensive steakhouse and a box of premium cigars. I threw a hand on his shoulder and opened my mouth to reveal the surprise!

Instead, the words, "Son I need to introduce you to our new neighbor," came out of my mouth: definitely not what I intended.

That seemed strange. I surely hadn't meant to say that; however, when I thought about it, I did seem to remember something the neighbor had mentioned yesterday. Maybe I had promised to introduce my son to him. It must have been a good idea, if I was suggesting it. I would have to hurry though because our reservation was soon, and I couldn't wait to see the look on Joel's face when he found out what I had planned!

"Uh, sure," Joel answered, waiting for an explanation, "Who is it?"

"He's a great man!" I instantly shouted, feeling overwhelmingly defensive about the newcomer. I wasn't sure why I felt that way because I could barely even remember the guy.

Joel flinched at my sudden outburst, but I brushed it off and led him out the back door. My son followed me through the gate and into the backyard of our next door neighbor. Somehow, I knew I was only supposed to enter from the back door. My hand dug into a nearby planting pot and found a spare key. I'm not exactly sure how I knew that was there, but I shrugged it off and unlocked the door.

Joel didn't question me, but he seemed mildly annoyed. I'm glad he didn't ask what I was doing because I had no clue! My body marched on autopilot down a short hallway and parked in the middle of a living room. Our neighbor seemed to be busy napping on his couch. My cheeks flushed when I realized I had just walked in on the man sleeping.

"Excuse me sir," my voice suddenly rang out loudly, "My son Joel is back from the army."

Joel glared at me in confusion, "Dad what-"

"Shut it, kid," the man on the couch snapped awake and stretched, "Come stand quietly in front of me so I can get a good look at you."

Joel's mouth shut tight at the man's request. He marched up to our neighbor and stood at attention. There was something strangely automatic about his movements, like they were choreographed ahead of time. I suppose this is just how they learn to act in the army.

"Hmm, yes," the neighbor purred from the couch, "You're sexier than your dad described."

My jaw clenched and my fists tightened! Why the hell was this guy making those kinds of comments about my son! I had never spoken with this weirdo, and I had certainly never described my son in that way!

If this guy wasn't careful, he was going to get a fight! I would of course stand and wait like a dumb bitch until I was dismissed, but once I was, I'd let him know! For now, I'll just try and contain myself.

"Why so red-faced," he turned a haughty look to me, "You remember our conversation yesterday, right Mr. Bitch?"

Suddenly, my memory flooded back. Of course I remembered! I'd popped by our new neighbor's house to introduce myself. He had invited me in and we'd gotten talking. I had bragged about how my parenting had yielded the perfect son. Our neighbor had then launched into a long and boring lecture.

My neighbor pointed out that I'd been pronouncing my surname wrong all these years! I'm a total idiot! It's 'Bitch' not 'Bishop!' He'd also changed my plans on how to celebrate my son's homecoming.

"Of, course I remember," I gasped dumbly as it all flooded back, "Sorry, sir. As you know, I can be a bit of a dumb bitch."

"Everyone knows that, old man. Do you even remember what you have to do whenever you enter my house?" he raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, sir," I replied as the instructions came back to me, "I am to go to the bathroom, stick my head in the toilet, and flush it seven times."

"That's it! And don't forget to keep your mouth open when it flushes, you old fart" he cracked up and laughed at me.

I nodded and left my son with our new neighbor, reporting to the bathroom like I was supposed to. Sticking my face in his skid marked toilet was the worst part about coming over. How could I have forgotten something like that? Without hesitating, I dropped to the floor and dipped below the toilet water, keeping my jaw locked open like he had suggested. I blindly found the handle and flushed the first wave over my head.

"All done, sir!" I called loudly, feeling compelled to announce my achievement.

Everything above my neck has been thoroughly soaked by the swirly, and it was quickly dripping down my clothes. My favorite shirt was now drenched! I wanted badly to dry off with the towel nearby, but I somehow knew that I was supposed to leave the toilet water on me instead.

Trudging back into the living room, I tried to prevent puddles by soaking the dripping water into my clothes, but it didn't work very well.

"Joel? What are you doing, son?" I blurted when I found him on his hands and knees.

Joel gazed up at me with a bizarre look on his face. It was as if he didn't even understand what he was doing down on the floor. His eyes seemed unfocused, like they weren't really seeing what was going on around him.

Nevertheless, he glanced over his shoulder at our new neighbor. It was like he was looking for guidance. My eyes followed his and we both found ourselves looking to the stranger for what to do next.

"Go on, boy," our neighbor chided, "Tell Mr. Bitch how you feel."

"Please," I straightened up, "Just call me Bitch. We're all friends here." I didn't care if a puddle was pooling at my feet. My son clearly had something important to say to me.

"Ok, Daddy," Joel blankly answered the guy on the couch. Then he turned an empty gaze to me, "Bitch, I'm moving out of your house. I want to live with our new neighbor. I want to be his slave boy and serve him any way I can."

I felt compelled to agree. I almost told him I was happy for him, but something felt off. Something had been gnawing at the back of my head ever since my son had gotten home. This wasn't how our night was supposed to go. My son and I were supposed to be enjoying steaks and cigars right now!

I shook my head a little. Beads of water flew from my hair, and I couldn't shake how wrong I had been acting. Why had I just given myself a swirly? And why was my son making such delusional statements?

"Woah, there big guy," our creepy next door neighbor hushed, "You're thinking too hard. You remember what you like to do when you think too hard right, Bitch?"

I breathed a sigh of relief out of my chest my chest when I remembered, "Yes, sir. I like to shove your leftovers down my pants when I'm thinking to hard."

Without another thought, I strolled into the kitchen and yanked the fridge open with a numb arm. A euphoric sense of relaxation washed over me when I saw a container of leftover spaghetti. Before I knew what I was doing, my hands had popped the lid off and fished the noodles and red sauce down the inside of my dress slacks. Once the container was empty, I zipped up my pants like nothing had happened and returned to the living room.

"Feeling better, Bitch?" my neighbor asked.

My glassy eyes noticed my son crouched by the feet of our neighbor. Joel was busy cleaning the guy's shoes, and I couldn't be more happy. So what if this is what he wanted to do with his life? He could become our neighbor's sex slave for all I cared. It's not like I cared about the kid. If he really had a chance to serve a man as great as our neighbor, then who cares about serving our country!

"Yeaah..." I moaned lightly.

"You like my homemade spaghetti?" the neighbor chuckled meanly.

"Yeeaaah..." my voice came out drawn, "It feels really cold..."

"Man, you are a gross bitch, but I programmed you to fall deeper every time you humiliate yourself for me. Do you what I'm going to have you do next?"

"Nooo..."

"You're going to make your reservation at that restaurant," he looked me up and down, "And you'll go in those clothes you've soiled. Get drunk off your ass, alright Bitch? I want you to make a complete fool out of yourself."

I'd already turned to follow his orders when he turned back to my son, "I'm gonna play with little soldier boy here. Maybe I'll pass him around to my buddies so they can give him a try..."

I didn't hear what else was in store for Joel. I wasn't too bothered by my son. I'm sure he'd be able to make our neighbor happy. I was just excited to go to the steak house and start humiliating myself...

[galactic-magick]

Some Severance Characters x Reader Headcanons

(Mostly platonic, a few romantic in italics)

I noticed there is literally zero Severance fandom self-insert content so I decided to do my duty and fix that. Call me cringe idc, I just want to imagine myself hanging out with these characters I’ve fallen in love with!

Helly R

You and Helly together would certainly be a force to be reckoned with

You help each other come up with escape plans, all of which unfortunately fail or Mark shuts down before you even try them

Despite the failures and hopelessness, though, she’d find a lot of joy hanging out with you

She would try to sneak into the elevator at the same time as you after work so your outies could meet

If your relationship becomes romantic, she would love kissing you at the most inappropriate times. Mostly because she just likes kissing you, but also because she knows someone is always watching and wants to piss off management lol

Mark S

Mark didn’t think he could ever have another best friend after Petey, but you prove him wrong

You make him laugh and smile, even on the days he comes in looking sad and hungover

He can never remember why, of course, but you’re there for him either way. You both just have to make peace with the fact his outie is going through some shit you’ll never know about

He’d be very sweet with you as he’s training you, he knows how weird being a new hire can be so he’s very gentle with you and Helly when you start

I think he’d be a slow burn office romance kinda guy, so if you do end up advancing your relationship, he will definitely not be the one making the first move. If you like him you’re just going to straight up tell him lol he will not get it otherwise

Dylan

Your relationship with Dylan is mainly competition and messing with each other

You’ll steal his finger traps when he’s not looking and sabotage/distract him from work so you win more prizes than him

Your teasing of each other is both extremely annoying and endearing for your other coworkers

You like to hang out and chat with him by the vending machines, getting excited whenever a new snack is added

Irving

Irving would be surprised that a fifth person is joining MDR, but he soon finds the more the merrier

He likes that with an additional person the work gets done faster and the quarterly quotas are less stressful

If you’ll indulge him, he likes taking you on walks and field trips and yapping about Eagan history

Sometimes you help him out by standing watch while he takes a nap in the supply closet lol. Let this man take a snooze fr

Harmony

A friendship or relationship with Harmony would probably go similarly to how she treated Mark, let’s be real

She’d be a little obsessed with you in her own weird way, and she’d pursue your outie as well if possible

If you manage to get past her cold exterior, I honestly think she could be very caring to someone she actually cares about. As long as you don’t get in the way of her and Kier lol

Mr. Milchick AKA Milkshake

This guys can be very scary and unsettling, but if you don’t mind that? He would be so fucking fun to hang out with

I think he can sing as well as he dances. You catch him humming and singing little tunes sometimes

Since he’s not severed, he’d sometimes accidentally slip things about your outie, since he knows both versions of you

He would resist any affection towards you, but inevitably a flirty comment would come out and you’d just stare at him in shock

Natalie

As the spokesperson for the Lumon Board, Natalie really isn’t supposed to have relationships with coworkers, especially not severed ones

But whenever she’s 99% sure they’re not listening, she likes to spend time chatting with you

You’re fascinating to her, and if you get close enough she might even start seeing you as a real person

Ms Casey

You’re her favorite client by far, and seeing you on her schedule always brings a smile to her face

You’d fake not feeling well a LOT just so you can have more wellness sessions with her

On the rare occasion she gets to leave the wellness office, she loves hanging out with you in MDR

If anything she reads about your outie involves love, she gets a bit jealous, knowing she’ll probably never get to experience it with either version of you

[astupidweeb69]

hello!! I am kinda nervous to write this bc I absolutely love your writing and the way you portray Toby is just so real. I love how you make him both a loser and a force of nature, like just bc he has no rizz doesn't mean he can't do anything lol. But I was lowkey thinking about your stories the other day and like, what if Y/N also had some screws loose? Like he pops up at her house covered in the blood of some guy who wouldn't leave her alone and instead of calling the police like a smart person she's just like: " 😳 omg you did this for me??" I know it's unrealistic and silly but it's also kind of interesting???

Ticci Toby x Violent! Reader

Toby with an unhinged reader? Well - there's a recipe for disaster lmao.

I know I said I'm not taking requests but this ended up becoming a scenario. I just had some inspo - hope this is what you were looking for! Because the reader isn't submissive? Idk

Y/N has some messed-up thoughts and there are mentions of violence under the cut!:

The reader I imagine in this case would have only seen how cringey Toby is - thinking he was just a creepy guy who's taken a liking to them and would avoid him at all costs. Probably up until this point assume that he's a wimp (Toby would initially try his best to seem weaker and unassuming when he approaches the person he likes)

The scenario I imagine is that Y/N grew up around conflict, and is fully comfortable around violence, even throwing a few punches themselves here and there. Maybe ended up in Juvie when they were younger and now works in some retail job - something where they regularly interact with the general public.

A customer tries to hit on Y/N when Toby's there - big mistake.

But Toby doesn't say anything at first.

He doesn't have to.

Y/N immediately shuts the customer down. But the guy doesn't let up. Curses are thrown back and forth, Y/N's wrist is grabbed.

He touched you.

Toby doesn't like that. Not one bit.

You get reprimanded by your boss after you punched the unruly customer in the face.

Luckily they didn't press charges.

You had a bit of an edge, from your surly demeanor and fucked sense of humor, but Toby had no idea you'd do that.

Kind of turned him on. He knew he picked you for a reason.

But alas, that was the extent of your revenge. You already had a record of aggravated assault and you didn't need another one added to the list.

Luckily for you that scrawny, lanky boy who always stared at you when he came in had a plan in motion.

Late at night, a knock on the door wakes you up from a nap on the couch. Of course, you look through the peephole first before answering.

Red.

Everything is red.

Only until you hear a familiar voice pipe up do you realize who it is.

Toby.

The blood covered so much of his face it was hard to point out who he was at first.

He speaks to you through the door, somehow already knowing you're there.

And he tells you what he did.

It takes a moment for you to process all the grizzly details, the way he followed the man, cornered him in an alley, and beat him so hard he'd pretty sure he cracked his skull on the brick wall.

He sounded giddy about it. Gleeful.

He was far from the loser you thought he was.

And you liked it.

Liked that he did that for you.

After all, in your head, hurting someone for someone else was the greatest form of love. It was the kind of devotion you'd always dreamed of from a partner.

You open the door.

Toby is surprised, but soon sees a look on your face he recognized. The kind of expression of sick joy and arousal that comes with blood lust.

You're blushing too. Blushing for him.

Everything was finally coming together perfectly, and once you let him into your home, he's never going to leave.

The relationship would start right off the bat. Toby is one to rush things.

It's all to claim you. Both mentally and physically. So you're attached to the hip pretty much. Expect a lot of PDA (Toby does not care who sees lol)

And a reader who's fully on board?

Yeah you're going to bring out the worst in each other. He'll encourage you to do more crimes, to get bloodier, to join him.

It would be a very bad situation for everyone involved.

But especially for anyone unfortunate enough to cross the paths of you two lovebirds.

[liaromancewriter]

Snowed In

Premise: There’s a winter storm pummeling Boston and a polar vortex bringing arctic air and….

Fandom: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Format: Text & Pic Fic + Prose Words: 785

A/N: I meant to post this on Sunday evening just as a snowstorm hit Boston since the fic is set in real time. But, I got busy vegging on the couch. lol Submission for @choicesjanuary2025 prompt "snowfall"

Part 1: The Snowstorm

Part 2: The Wind Down

Winter was a bitch. Nothing could make Cassie Valentine change her mind about that.

If the snowstorm that pummeled Boston wasn’t bad enough, the weatherman was now chirping much too cheerily about the blast of arctic air descending upon them.

Before clocking into work earlier in the day, Cassie had to gingerly navigate the slick road and icy sidewalk from the T to the staff entrance at the side of the hospital.

Lately, she and Ethan had been driving to work together. But today, their schedules hadn’t aligned, leaving her to miss out on the warm comfort of his luxury sedan.

Maybe she should cave and buy a car—or have her parents send her old Cayenne down. She just hated driving in Boston, with its horrendous traffic and aggressive drivers. The subway, ride-sharing or letting her husband chauffeur her around suited her just fine.

Cassie grabbed a snack from the attending’s lounge, glanced at her wristwatch, and calculated that she had just enough time for a power nap in her office. Rather than tackling the stairs to the seventh floor, her exhausted legs opted for the elevator.

She had been run off her feet for the past twelve hours, but now it was two o’clock in the morning — that in-between time when the hospital fell quiet before interns and residents began their pre-rounds.

Letting out a loud yawn, Cassie reached inside the coat closet for a throw blanket and pillow she kept for those occasions when she needed to be on call. Lowering the blinds of her glass-walled office, she settled onto the couch and closed her eyes.

Her brain was wired, though, and sleep eluded her. After ten minutes, she gave up and unlocked her phone for some joy scrolling (her version of doom scrolling) on Picta.

She laughed at her friends’ comments on recent posts, replied to ones she’d missed earlier, and switched to the latest celeb gossip feeds.

Between trying to guess the subjects of blind items and commiserating with other fans over their favorite singer’s breakup, she didn’t hear the office door slide open.

“Can’t sleep?” Ethan asked, stepping in and joining her on the couch.

He gently lifted her legs and placed them across his lap, sprawling wide with his legs outstretched and his head resting on the back cushions.

“You look like hell, babe,” Cassie teased, taking in the dark circles under his eyes and the overgrown scruff along his jawline.

Ethan made a face but didn’t respond.

“The snow’s tapered off,” he said, stifling a yawn. “We can head home as soon as the roads are clear.”

“I’m leading morning rounds and have consults scheduled in the afternoon,” Cassie said, sitting up and leaning her head on his shoulder. “It’s easier if I stay here tonight.”

She nestled against him, pulling the throw blanket over both of them, and sighed as his warmth surrounded her.

Cassie could feel sleep creeping up on her, her eyes drifting shut, when Ethan chuckled, his deep voice rumbling beneath her.

“So, you hate the storm, the polar vortex, and wish we were back in Hawaii, huh?”

“How is it that you never comment on my Picta posts, yet always know exactly what’s going on?” Cassie retorted, angling her face to meet Ethan’s smiling eyes.

“Because I’m… what did you call me once? Ah, yes. Your Picta Stalker,” he laughed. “Whenever I’m bored, I just scroll your feed. You’re more entertaining than anything else on that infernal app.”

Cassie rolled her eyes. “I know you mean that to be flattering, but why do I feel insulted instead?”

Ethan shrugged, jostling her in the process. She wrapped an arm across his stomach, her fingers curling lightly against his side.

“I hate winter,” she murmured sleepily. “Let’s blow this joint, move to Hawaii and live off my trust fund.”

“You’d hate it,” he stated matter-of-factly. “You were jonesing for work after three days on the beach.”

“I was an idiot then. I’ve learned my lesson now.”

“That’s the polar vortex talking,” Ethan quipped.

“Oh, shut up,” Cassie muttered.

After that, a comfortable silence stretched between them, neither feeling the need to fill the quiet with words.

“This is nice.”

“What is?” Ethan asked, his voice rough with sleep.

“This. Us. Just doing nothing,” Cassie said. “When we first met, I don’t think I ever imagined we’d be here like this. Not just together, but quietly comfortable. It’s nice.”

She could hear Ethan’s slow, even breathing as he drifted into sleep and wasn’t expecting a response.

Still, her heart skipped a beat when he murmured under his breath, “It’s more than nice. It’s perfect.”

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

All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @jerzwriter @justyourusualash @lady-calypso @kyra75 @mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @snoopdogcone @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @loreofyore

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate

[lou-struck]

A Merry Mix Up

Shinsuke Kita x reader

W.C. 1.7k

~Your spirits were dampened until a little postal mixup brings a bit of holiday cheer to your door. 

A/n: Sorry about the delay on this one guys, I've been hit with a bit of that seasonal sickness and had to slow down for a bit.

The Holidays should fill you with nostalgic joy and anticipation as you travel back to your hometown for a metaphorical sleigh ride down memory lane with your friends and family. 

But this year is different. 

Between a surplus of career obligations and a limited supply of overpriced plane tickets that would cost you both an arm and a leg, you had to make the heartbreaking decision to forgo your yearly travel and spend Christmas alone within the walls of your little apartment. 

The realization that you will be completely and utterly alone this Christmas has hit you hard, but you have been trying to distract yourself from the festering loneliness.

Your television screen plays a never-ending stream of Christmas movies, and you have been doing your best to spend time with the new friends you have made in your new city. But it's hard; your heart aches for home and the comforts of tradition.

Despite the melancholy homesickness that you have been trying, and failing, to ignore. There are a few things you can look forward to. You do have a few things to look forward to; your loved ones have sent you Christmas presents in the mail that you are not allowed to open until the morning of the 25th.

Finding each new package at your front door has been a gift that keeps on giving, but frankly, it is a miracle you haven't peeked in them yet. To stop yourself from ruining the only surprise the season has in store for you, you have taken each package from your little welcome mat and tucking it into your coat closet so they are out of sight and out of mind. 

Now, with little room left in the closet for anything else, you distract yourself with yet another Christmas movie; a bit bored with the made-for-TV plot and less-than-Oscar-winning acting, you find yourself nodding off.

Just before you shut your eyes and succumb to a long nap that would definitely ruin your sleep schedule, you hear a polite knocking on the other side of your front door. The small sound is enough to pull your bored self from the couch and creep to the door in your obnoxiously fluffy slipper socks. 

Due to your landlord's frugalness, your chilled door knob jiggles dramatically the moment you make contact with it, but it stays on as you give it a light twist and open the door expecting to find yet another delivery person on the other side. 

Instead, you find a pair of familiar-looking soft brown eyes and black and grey two-toned hair. A large brown box is tucked comfortably under his arm, and you try to rember when it was that you have seen this beautiful man before. 

"Can I help you?" You say with an air of caution one develops from watching too many true crime documentaries while living alone. Your hand is still gripping the doorknob in case you have to shut it quickly in the man's face. 

He blinks and gives you a soft, embarrassed smile. "Oh, right, my apologies. Hello, I live in the building; I'm looking for a Y/N; I believe we had a mixup with our packages."

He holds out a box to you and you can tell by the messy scrawl on the label that it is another early Christmas gift from one of your best friends back home. Just seeing the package brings a longing smile to your lips. "Thank you," you say, taking the box excitedly. "So you think that one of yours was delivered to me instead?"

He smiles and reaches into the maroon pocket of what looks to be a high school alumni jacket, pulling out a phone. "I'll admit, I'm not the best when it comes to technology, but I believe one of my packages was delivered to your door by mistake." He holds out his phone for you to take, and you notice that his device, while dated, is remarkably well taken care of. His screen is completely without cracks or finger smudges, giving you a clear photo sent to him by the post. 

Sure enough, you see as clear as day that his package was dropped on your cute little doormat. 

"You're right," you say, not wanting to leave the man out in the hall; you open your door a bit wider. "Come on in and I'll grab your box."

"Thank you, I apologize for the inconvenience," he says, stepping hesitantly across your threshold.

"It's not your fault," you reply, thankful that you had just deep-cleaned your living space out of sheer boredom just the other day. But you have a feeling that even if you led him into a pigsty, he wouldn't say anything about it. 

You get to your makeshift gift closet and grab the most recent package from the pile. Sure enough, you weren't paying attention and completely missed the very obvious 'Shinsuke Kita' printed on the label.

"I am so sorry; I can't believe I missed it when I brought it inside." you apologize, handing the box to him as if it were made of glass. "Please don't think I'm that neighbor who steals packages."

A soft laugh bubbles to the surface, setting his eyes alight. "I believe you, I can only imagine how overworked postal workers are this time of year. But I really needed to get my hands on this." The way he looks down at the package in his hands reminds you of yourself.

His expression is filled with longing, with love. 

Before you know it, your curiosity gets the better of you, and you find yourself asking him a question. "Can I ask what's inside?"

He nods and sets the box down on your kitchen table. "I think you would understand a bit more if I showed you instead. May I?"

You nod as he uses the sharp side of his housekey to split the lid of the box open. To your astonishment, it is filled to the brim with Christmas cookies; even through the simple packaging and the mouthwateringly sweet scent that fills your apartment, you can tell that these are not just homemade but have been baked fresh and overnighted from somewhere. 

"Wow, I can see why you wanted to find those. "You laugh, admiring the rustic uniformity of the sweets. "Who are they from?"

"My grandmother," he says softly. "When the holidays come, she makes enough cookies to feed an army. I never took the time to appreciate how much it meant to me until now. But now that I'm on my own, I understand what a treasure it is to taste a loved one's cooking during the holidays."

"You can't go home for Christmas?" you ask, your brow furrowing as your heart begins to feel that familiar ache. 

He shakes his head, "Not this year; I'm currently getting my masters in agricultural management so I can take over my family's rice paddy. The program is expensive, so getting a ticket home this year was out of my budget."

"I know how you feel," you say solemnly, "I'm in a similar position, actually. Travel is too expensive, and  I'm really missing home right now."

His frown falters as he takes in your features, the kindness in his gaze burns your skin like a flame as he holds out a cookie to you. "Well then, it looks like you need a little taste of home this year too."

"I couldn't," you say politely, although it is obvious you want to try one. "These are for you."

The skin around his eyes crinkles with his smile, "Please, take one. My grandmother always says that her cookies taste better when they are shared."

"Well, I can't argue with that logic," you chuckle, taking a cookie from his outstretched hand; as your fingers brush, you feel an almost electric sensation shoot down your spine. 

"Merry Christmas," he says, grabbing another cookie from his box and taking a bite.

You follow suit, and the moment you bite down on the soft pasty, your mind is blown. 

Oh my god

What the hell is in these cookies that make them taste so good?

Your heart fills with love as the flavors dance on your tongue. "Wow."

"They're delicious, aren't they?" he hums, his eyes full of emotion as he takes another bite of this life-changing cookie. "It's silly, but it makes me want to actually get into the Christmas spirit. I haven't felt the need until now."

"I know what you mean," you say looking around your apartment, your lack of decorations more evident than usual. Not even your wall calendar is festive. "Now I kinda want to do something, maybe get a little tree to set up."

"A tree would look nice over there by the window," he offers helpfully. 

And although you just met this man, you can't help but wonder if the magic of Christmas has managed to bring you too lonely souls together for the holiday.

Clenching your fists into tight little balls, you look up at the man boldly. "Would you…Would you want to maybe go and do something christmassy? You know, with me?

Delight lights up his face as he nods eagerly, "I would. Actually, I am feeling inspired. Would you be interested in possibly picking out a Christmas tree with me?"

"I'd like that," you breathe, not believing your luck. People always say that if you want to meet someone, you'd have to leave the comfort of your home, but this date has come right to you.

"I actually heard about a great tree lot not too far from here, we could leave in twenty minutes or so if that works with you?"

"That would be great. Let me just get my coat, and I'll meet you downstairs."

He grabs the cookie box off the counter but removes a few more cookies, leaving them on the table for you. "Well then, I'll see you soon, Y/n." The way he says your name is far sweeter than the cookies and you find yourself weak in the knees as he steps out into the hallway and disappears, leaving you wondering what in the world just happened.

Your heart thumps wildly as you scurry about your apartment with newfound holiday cheer as you get ready for the first of many seasonal dates with your handsome neighbor.

Tagging: @pixelcafe-network

[giggly-squiggily]

A New Kind Of Mystery (Bungo Stray Dogs)

Whoops my hand slipped :D Heyo everyone! Today I bring you some Ranpoe cause I can :3 This is a gift for the amazing @intheticklecloset cause why the heck not? >:3 I hope you like it friend!

Cloud 9 (Taglist Peeps):

@myreygn @thatbigbisexual29 @dirtpie39 @duckymcdoorknob @cupcake-spice13 @t-wordiiish @rachi-roo @chibisstuff @imjusthere07, @sevenincubistolemyheart

Summary: Books are Poe's life, but so is Ranpo and all his antics. Stressed about both, he inadvertently finds a way to make both work.

“Eeheehehehhe, Ranpooooo!” Poe squeaked, nearly breaking his pen in half when fingers pinched his ribs. “Please, I’m wohoohorking!”

“You always say that!” Ranpo teased, snuggling closer to the shy author as he carried on kneading his sides, earning even more giggles and squeaks. “Play with meeeeee~”

“Ahehahahaha, R-Rahhahahanpo STAHP!” Poe twisted around, catching the detective’s hands with his. “I reahally need to gehet this done. I can’t play right now.”

“Okay.” Ranpo nodded, a touch of hurt coloring his smile as he got up to go. “Well…call me when you’ve got down time, okay?” He turned to leave, whistling as he walked to the door.

“R-Right.” Poe nodded, giving the other one last smile as the detective disappeared, shutting the door behind him. When he was out of earshot, the author let his shoulders droop, head hitting the desk with a low groan. Why did books have to take so long? Mysteries couldn’t write themselves, and he always wanted to give Ranpo his best self when presenting a new book. Breaks were rare, and even those mainly consisted of naps and remembering to eat; not much else.

Ranpo, bless his heart, was so patient with him, but Poe couldn’t shake the image of that sad expression. He needed to make it right! He started to get up-

The sound of a car pulling out stopped him in his place. Looking out the window, he watched Ranpo head back to the Agency.

Shit- missed his chance.

“Gggggggrr?” Karl hopped onto the desk, tilting his head curiously up at Poe. The author stroked his head, trying not to cry.

“Oh Karl…I’m the worst boyfriend ever!” He moaned pathetically, gathering the racoon up in his arms. “I can’t even make time for Ranpo! He just wants to play- and here I am working on books-”

Books. Wait a minute…

“Oh…OH!” The ideas were turning in his mind. Karl climbed up on Poe’s head as the author gathered his things- a notebook for outlining, his typewriter for the final product, and most importantly; a framed photo of him and Ranpo the other gifted him when they first started dating.

“Don’t you worry, Ran. What you’re about to read is gonna be my greatest work.”

~~~

Greatest probably wasn’t the best choice of words, but it was certainly his fastest work.

Poe all but leaped for joy the morning he finished it- it was rough around the edges and didn’t have a title, but it was perfect! He could refine the work later- for now he needed to get this to Ranpo!

Taking the world's fastest shower, he texted his boyfriend an assortment of words that he hoped conveyed “Meet me at the park” before flying out the door, running as fast as he could, Karl hanging on to him by the back of his coat. The cold winter chill colored his cheeks, and his breath was frosty without his usual coat, but he couldn’t wait a second longer.

To his glee, Ranpo was where he wanted him, slurping on hot chocolate and kicking his feet against the bench. When their eyes met, he raised his cup in greeting.

“Poe-” A crash! A flop- Poe came tumbling before him in a heap of limbs and cloth, Karl leaping for safety at the last second. When the world stopped spinning, he found himself on his back, Ranpo’s wide eyes looking down at him.

“Poe!  Are you okay?” Instead of answering, the author pulled out the book- holding it up to him.

“It’s done! Here.” He gasped out. “Please, take it.”

Ranpo blinked. Then his eyes narrowed, irritated. “I haven’t seen or heard from you for two straight weeks and this is the first thing you say to me?” Hurt swallowed his anger as Ranpo sat back, hiding in his hat. “And here I thought you were just excited to see me…”

Oh no- this is not how he wanted it to go! Poe sat up, scooting closer to his boyfriend. “I’m sorry, Ranpo- truly I am! I was just so determined to get this book done. It’s a gift for you.”

“A gift?” Ranpo looked at him, somewhat guarded. “Not just me reviewing it?”

“Well- I would like to hear your thoughts on it after you finish it, but yes. I made it especially tailored for you and you alone.” Poe nodded, shaky as he held out the present. “I understand if you don’t want it. Not after me ignoring you for so long-”

“I’ll read it.” Ranpo took the book, running his fingers along the spine. “But I have a condition.”

“Oh?”

“After I read this- I want you to take a proper break from your work.” Ranpo gave him a stubborn glare, cheeks puffed some. “You’re my boyfriend, and I have a two week vacation coming up. I want to spend it with you. If you promise me that, I’ll give you my full attention to this book.”

Poe was..hesitant. He’d only ever taken short half day breaks from writing; never a full vacation. What would happen if he did stop writing for two weeks? Looking at Ranpo, a worse thought occurred.

What would happen if he didn’t?

“Okay.” He nodded, prioritizing. “Two week vacation.”

Ranpo seemed pleased, lightening up some. “Okay. Whenever you’re ready.”

Poe nodded, taking the book. He flipped it open and began the tale.

~~~

When Ranpo came to, he was in the usual setup. A mansion- old and Victoria. A handful of staff- maids and butlers and gardener’s alike. There was a dead body in the room to his left- he needed to figure out what happened.

A classic mystery, if not a little simple. He already knew who did it. He was about to voice the culprit-

But stopped. That wasn’t the deal.

“Okay Poe- I’ll play by the rules.” He decided, even if he was kinda disappointed. The way Poe all but crashed into him to deliver this book- how he made it out to be something special- he figured it’d be a bit more complex than this. He went over to the room where the body laid, ready to get this over with. “What’s in here- ehehehehehe!”

The second he touched the doorknob, something ticklish shot up his arm, making him retract and giggle. The detective stared, looking between the doorknob and his hand. There was nothing there that could do it, but it felt as if someone brushed his palm with a feather duster. He knew this was the right door, and yet…

Like a drop of pigment into clear water, Ranpo’s disappointment faded into curious excitement. “Now what is this all about?” He grinned, slowly reaching to touch the knob again. The second he touched it, he was giggling once more, barely hanging on as he twisted the knob. “Cohoohhome on, I knohohoohow this is the rohoohohohohoom!”

Eventually, he got it open. Sure enough, a body was there- dressed in fancy attire and wearing a racoon mask. Ranpo huffed for air as he rubbed his palm, eyes landing on a note pinned to the body.

So you found my victim. Can you find me?

~The Tickler

Ranpo snorted at the name, flipping the paper over to find the same racoon mask imprinted on the back. A feather hung off one of the ears in the drawing. When Ranpo looked up, the same feather was snug behind the mask on the body.

“So this is what you meant when you said it was for me.” Ranpo smiled as he gathered the soft item, twirling it in his fingers. “Okay Poe- you want to play? Let’s play.”

~~~

Ranpo carried on the mystery, growing more giggly as he went. Every correct clue he found had that same ticklish touch, sometimes on his hands if it was an item he had to gather, other times along his sides when he walked through the correct door. By the time he got to the culprit’s location, he was a flustered mess of laughter, rubbing his sides to rid himself of the ghostly feeling. “Ohoohohokay, Mr. Tickler. I finally found you!” He pushed open the door-

And was ambushed by a racoon!

“Ah! Ahehahahhahahaha! Geahahahahahhahah!” He squealed, trying and failing to catch the fluffy creature as it dug into his sides, back to his face so it’s fluffy tail swished and flicked against his nose and neck. “Kahhahahaharl, wahahhahait! It’s yohohohohohohohou!”

“So you figured it out.” The racoon cooed, sounding just like Poe as it carried on tickling him, nuzzling so much the detective was in pieces beneath him, struggling to curl up. “Didn’t expect little ol me to be so devious, did you?”

“Yohohoohohohu gohohohooohoht mehehehehehe! I shohohoohhuld have knohohohohown you’d be so dehehehehehvious!” The detective reached into his pocket with some difficulty, clenching his fist around a very important item. “Buhuhuhut you faahhahaailed to remememeeber ohohohohohone dehehehehtail!”

“Oh? And what would that be?” The raccoon asked, fur standing up when Ranpo shot his fist out. “What-Ah!”

“Yoohohohu forgot I hahahve a wehahapon!” Ranpo sat up, the feather in hand wiggling against the racoon’s face and ears as it squeaked and thrashed in his arms. “Now Karl- or should I say Poe. You’re the culprit!”

The world around them changed. Ranpo soon found himself once again in the park, Poe’s ability ending and returning him to the real world.  His body tingled with mirth, and the feather was no more. Before him, Poe was a mess of giggles on the floor, scrunched up and giggly. “Aheheahhaha…yohohou got mehehehe.”

“I sure did! Ehehehehe!” Ranpo raised his chin with pride, something soft replacing the feeling after. “You really did that for me.”

“Ohohof course I did. It’s the least I can do after ignoring you.” Poe sat up, hiding in his bangs as he pulled on his sleeves. “I prioritized my work over spending time with you, and I’m sorry for that. Going forward, I’m gonna work on finding a balance.”

Ranpo took it in, considering. Then he smiled, crawling over until he was side by side with his boyfriend, lying his head against his shoulder.

“I appreciate that. I don’t mind you writing; it’s your passion. Just…remember I’m still here, okay?” He felt Poe take his hand, squeezing it tightly.

“I will. I promise.”

“Good. Cause if you don’t…” Ranpo didn’t give any warning, shooting his hand out and squeezing his side. Poe yelped, falling backwards and taking the detective with him. “I’ll tickle you until you die!”

“Ah! Rahahhahanpo, the groohohohohund’s coohohohohld!”

“Is it now? I’ll just have to warm you up!”

“AH YOHOHOHOUR HANDS ARE COHOOHOHLD!”

“Hm…gotta warm those up too.” Ranpo giggled as he slid his hands up Poe’s shirt, delighted at how giggly he got. “Get ready, Poe. These upcoming two weeks are gonna be full of this stuff!”

“Ahehahhhahaha! Ihihihih’m alehhahhahahdy lohohoooohking fohohohhoward to ihihihihihit!” The words made Ranpo’s heart skip.

This was gonna be a good vacation.

Thanks for reading!

[choicesmonthlychallenge]

Choices March Challenge 2024

I asked and you answered. It seems like flowers and spring are prompts you are interested in for the March Challenge!

I hope you enjoy the prompts I chose. There is a mix of flowers, spring related words, March holidays, dialogue prompts, and visual floral prompts. I also posted some floral dividers that you're welcome to use.

Have Fun + Happy Creating!

Prompts + Guidelines below the cut!

Flowers (these are some possibilities, but all flowers are accepted)

Bleeding Heart Flower

Carnation

Chrysanthemum

Coneflower

Corpse Flower

Daffodil

Daisy

Gladiolus

Hydrangea

Iris

Jade Vine

Lavender

Lilac

Lily

Marigold

Moonflower

Nightshade

Orchid

Pansy

Peony

Poppy

Rose

Snapdragon

Sunflower

Tulip

Wildflowers

Spring

Awakening

Baby animals

Butterflies

Clear skies

Daylight saving

Fresh air

Growth

New Life

Outdoor activities + sports

Picnics

Rain boots

Rainy days

Renewal

Spring cleaning

Sunny weather

Warm temperatures

Longer days

Umbrella

March Holidays (these are some possibilities, but all March Holidays are accepted)

March 01: National Peanut Butter Lover's Day

March 08: International Women's Day

March 09: National Barbie Day + Get over it Day

March 11: National Napping Day

March 15: The Ides of March

March 16: National Panda Day

March 17: St. Patrick's Day

March 18: Awkward Moments Day

March19: First day of spring

March 23: National Puppy Day

March 30: National Take a Walk in the Park Day + Doctors' Day

March 31: Easter

Dialogue Prompts

"The flowers in the park seem to have a secret language, don't they?"

"Why does every spring bring back memories of that garden?"

"I can't believe you kept that secret from me all these years."

"Why do you always have to be so stubborn?"

"I never thought I'd see you again."

"Do you believe in second chances?"

"I thought we were in this together."

"You're not the person I thought you were."

"Sometimes silence speaks louder than words."

"Is it too late to start over?"

"I don't know who I am anymore."

"We're running out of time."

"Why are you really here?"

"Your laughter is my favorite melody."

"If our love story were a book, every page would be filled with the softest words and the sweetest kisses. What chapter are we on now?"

“Will you please shut up”

 “Of all the things i love about you, this is my favorite.”

Visual Prompts:

If one of these inspire a creative work from you feel free to use it. You can list the prompt topic + # (ie: Rainbow 3)

Guidelines + Rules

Submitted works will be featured on a weekly masterlist

Every form of creative work can be submitted: fanfiction, drabbles, moodboards, edits, drawings, poems, songs, sketches, and more—all are welcomed.

Work from any book and story from the Choices (and Pixelberry) universe are welcome (new and old alike)!

You can participate as many times as you want during the month

Clearly list the prompt your used

You can combine submissions for this event and others

Please add a cut to avoid long posts and exposing other fans to triggering/disturbing content.

If your work is NS*W please label it as such and use appropriate warnings. Adult content should be hidden under the page break.

You can get creative with the prompts. It can be a variation of the word and/or concept. It doesn’t have to be exact or literal. If the word inspires a train of thought that led you to something different, put that in the notes and send it in! Have fun with it! Make them work for you! The ultimate goal is just to find joy in creating!

Please tag @choicesmonthlychallenge​​ and if you’d like to add me you can do so as well~ @lovealexhunt​​​ (feel free to DM me your work too since Tumblr tags are fickle)

Please do not submit work that has been created with AI. Works that contain AI will not be reblogged. If reblogged inadvertently and I find out they have AI, they will be deleted.

Late entries will be accepted through April 5

[ennoshitas-princess]

The Beautiful Rose

Tobio Kageyama x chubby fem! reader Warnings: Oikawa being forceful to be with you, some swearing, centaur Kageyama, violent scene Synopsis: you are the girl everyone wants to be, and you catch the eye of the king of the court Word Count: 1,612 Hopefully you like it!! This has no spoilers really. Fantasy au (inspo beauty and the beast). Don't read if you don't like violence or triggered with gun shots.

You strolled along the dirt path of the village to go to the market in the little town to get things for your mother and brother.

A shade of a pretty pastel cerulean hovered above everyone's head. The emerald blanket soaked with the morning dew. The light magenta petals of the cherry trees fell like snow in the bleak winter months. The rays warming up the ground below, caused cats and dogs to shut their eyelids tight and take a longer nap.

Basket in hand, you continued to admire your surroundings of the vast beauty of nature.

“Bonjour, monsieur.” You wave to the owner of the stand, filling your nostrils with the sweet aroma of baked goods.

“Bonjour, belle demoiselle.” He replied back.

“What do you have to offer today?” You looked at all the items, making you drool.

You could not help yourself. Just a regular habit you had that continued to occur since you were small. The thought of eating one of these delicious delights, had you wanting to buy the whole stand.

“We have bagels, cookies, baguettes, loafs of bread, and cake.” He pointed them out.

“I will take these and the baguettes.” Your hand hovered over the cookies.

“Ah, your sweet tooth demoiselle, non?”

“Oui, monsieur!”

“À plus tard!” You wave to the baker.

“Salut!”

You walk off to bump into none other than the throb of the town, Touru Oikawa.

With a sigh, you shift to your left to continue with your errands, but stopped by him moving to his right to block. You move the other direction, and he does the same thing.

“Hey umm… Oikawa-”

“Please y/n, you know we are meant to be. Call me by my first name.” He pulled you close to his lean body.

“Look Oikawa, I cannot figure out any other way to express this. I do not like you romantically at all.” You bluntly shove him away.

His blood boiled at the remark, not knowing how much you mean to him. If he got with you, everyone in the village would be jealous about your relationship. Making him look greater and grander, even more than Alexander building one of the biggest empires in history in a short amount of time.

“Look y/n, you know how much-”

Before Oikawa could finish his sentence, you left him rambling to himself. In embarrassment, he stormed off, yelling, “well y/n, we all know you hang out with a monster.”

Oikawa, being himself, just let you be.

○◐❀❀❀❀❀❀◑○

Well, Oikawa wasn't wrong about what he said earlier that day. Everyone viewed him as one, but you saw his flaws as beautiful pieces of artwork in a mural in an art museum.

You go over to the forest to visit your friend, Tobio Kageyama. The hut just beneath all the dead trees, just decaying and bald. Flowers on the sidelines wilted from the lack of sunshine. The straw roof had a massive hole. So whenever it rained, poor Kageyama’s house got soaked.

You knock at the almost deteriorated wooden door. Just with your subtle touch, the door fell on the creaking floor with a thud, spooking the horned centaur.

Dashing towards the door, he saw your plump figure at the entrance.

“Oh, it's just you y/n.” He sighed.

“Yes, it's just me, Tobio. Look, I went to the market and got some things for you to eat. I got cookies, bread, some fresh produce, and guess what I brought?” You give him the basket.

“What did you bring for me?” He reached for it, his hand brushing against your soft tiny one.

Pulling the cold item out, he smiled.

“Y/n, you brought milk!” He shouted with joy.

“Of course I did. When you are happy, I am happy.”

The centaur picked you up and spun you around twice, hugging your soft curves. You were a cute plush for him of course. If someone bad happened to you, he would find a way to save or protect you.

You strolled along the river bed calmly, as the birds sang their song peacefully. The flow of the river brought some type of relief from Oikawa’s six hundredth proposal.

As you walk, you spot a rock to rest on. When you sat down, you heard a lot of rustling in the bushes. Frightened, you got up and started to run away.

“Wait, don't run… I didn't mean to scare you. Of course someone as pretty and kind hearted as you would rush back home.” A male voice sounded disappointed.

You inch towards the male slowly, awaiting to be attacked. When you look at the man closer, you see him hiding behind the shrubs.

“Umm… how dumb of me. I should introduce myself. My name is Kageyama, Kageyama Tobio. What is yours?” He still hid.

“Nice to meet you, mine is l/n y/n.” You tell him as you go where he hid.

“That is a pretty name for a pretty lady like you. I mean, well you are just pretty because you are a human- shit!” He snapped.

“Wait, come out of the bushes. I am curious about what you meant about me being a human. Are you one?” You raise a brow.

Clopping towards where you stood, you soon begin to realize he was not a human. He came out being a centaur. The thought of you running away came across poor Kageyama's mind, but surprised that you stayed in place, examining him closely with shining e/c eyes.

“You seem very fascinating! How did you-”Before you could finish that question, he replied with all honesty.

“I was put under a spell because of how I used to treat others in my village when I was king. I ran away and now, no one is ruling my kingdom.” He rubbed the back of his head.

You stare into his ocean eyes for a long time. Just as you were in a trance, he too was in one. Charmed by your squishy body, not knowing what to say or do, he randomly said, “wanna be friends?!?”

You break eye contact, blushing, “yeah!”

You two walked inside of his cottage to snack on the little treats.

○◐❀❀❀❀❀❀◑○

As you finished your snacks, a rustle in the bushes could be heard by Kageyama. He galloped towards the shrubs.

“Bam, bam, bam!”

You heard the gunshots from inside. Rushing out of your seat, you saw Kageyama on the dirt ground, breathing heavily. You turn your head up slowly from the centaur, only to meet up with brown eyes.

“Oikawa! Why would you shoot him?” You ran towards him and wept.

“I only did it for you, y/n. I bet he had you captured and under some mind game of his, only to keep you from me.” He reached for your arm, only for you to shake it off aggressively.

“I don't like you! As a matter of fact, I hate you!” You scowl at him.“I did it all for-”

“I don't care! I want you to leave me alone. I don't want you near me in any way. I am in love with him and you think I will love you after shooting him?” Your voice boomed throughout the forest.

Oikawa's mouth formed a small circle, opened from the news you gave to him. He couldn't believe that you loved a monster like Kageyama, but not love someone as handsome as he is. Scoffing, he turned his tracks to the road to the village, stomping his way back.

“Y-you love m-m-me?” Kageyama's soft voice spoke.

You look down at him from where you knelt down, just terrified of what could happen to him in the next minute.

“Kageyama, no matter what happens, I will never forget you, alright?” Your soft hand caressed his cheek.

“Pl-please don't tell m-me I am g-going to d-die?” He stumbled with his words.

“No, no. I am not saying that. If you happen to never return to your human form, I will still love you.” A tear rolled of your cheek like dew in the morning.

Kageyama suddenly closed his eyes and his breathing stopped. Waterfalls fell from your eyes as you saw your dear friend go limp in your arms, not holding himself up anymore. You wanted to go off in the village and get revenge with all the bitterness in your mouth, but something in your heart told you not to.

You closed your eyelids and felt some warmth in your hands. Opening them slowly, you saw him glittering proudly like a star in the night sky. You could have sworn that you were dreaming, but you pinch yourself only to realize you were wide awake.

He levitated in the air like a bird flying towards the glowing sun that warmed the ground. His torso turned back. His feet bare instead of hooves. His tail disappeared. Only the figure of Kageyama laid on the ground, fluttering his sapphire eyes open.“L-l/n-san?”

“Kageyama, you are alive and in your human form!” You hugged him tightly.

He glanced at himself up and down to see that you were right. He got up and spun you around like always.

“Yes, I am back to myself. L/n-san I simply adore you too!” He smashed his lips into yours.

Flushing in all the hues that existed, you did not hesitate one single but to kiss him back.

○◐❀❀❀❀❀❀◑○

As soon as your brother and mother moved into the palace, you and Kageyama got married. Weeks later, Oikawa got sentenced for trying to kill the king. Let's just say Oikawa could never look as handsome as he wanted anymore.

A/n: hey guys!! Thank you for reading another of my posts ☺️ hope you are having a good day!!

Hopefully you enjoyed!!

Thank you for coming!!

∘•···············•∘ʚ ♡ ɞ∘•················•∘

All rights reserved copyright ©

ennoshitas-princess

Please DO NOT repost on any other platform!!

Reblogs are acceptable

∘•···············•∘ʚ ♡ ɞ∘•················•∘

(divider below blue text belongs to @besitodefresas)

[renaisguy]

How ██ ███ Reluctantly Saved Count Varley From an Assassination Attempt

Continued from here

To recap the plot of this fine yuletide night,  An assassin gave Varley a terrible fright,  Forde was one of two sent to set these wrongs right,  And from the clues found he has a target in sight. 

One of two? He then questions, and looks back behind,  Yes Sennō’s still there, why was that on his mind?  He blinks once then twice, and to his surprise,  █en█ō’s gone, disappeared before his very two eyes. 

Forde rushes forward to confront his mark,  His appearance is jolly, though his heart must be dark,  Forde hurls his javelin, which of course doesn’t miss,  At this terrible villain, the man known as… Chris. 

Why was Forde so sure his target was here?  Well first was the rumour of flying reindeer.  When questioning villagers, a woman did flinch, “There’s only one man around who has used the word ‘Grinch’.” 

“Chris Crinkle’s his name”, another did tell, “And I’ve never seen him without those damn bells.”  Finally, Forde would bet on his life,  The dagger by his side is that candy cane knife. 

“Why’d you do it?” Forde asks, restraining the man.  Chris snickers, explaining he isn’t a fan. 

“Count Varley’s a bitter man, filled to the brim,  With hatred and malice, don’t you think he’s grim? I wanted the holiday spirit in him, What choice did I have? My chances were slim,  To convince him instead with a carol or hymn. This knife wasn’t just gonna give him a trim.” Chris Crinkle’s the name, and I wanted him dead,  I’d crumple him like paper, and tear him to shreds.”

“And then I’d-” “Please shut up!” Forde says with a shout.  “I’ve got no damn clue what you’re talking about.  There’s just one more thing that I’d like to know, Just now, what did you do to my partner, ███nō?”

Chris looks up at Forde, with genuine shock, And that feeling returns, that great mental block.  Forde whacks the man, who lets out a groan. “I don’t know what you mean! You came here alone!” 

Forde returns to Count Varley, villain in tow, Though his days are now numbered, his spirits aren’t low,  “Any final words?” He’s asked, to which he says, “Oh, 

“You think you’ve won Varley, but in the long term oh no,  A foul grinch like you, who would stoop so low,  Will never be happy! Ho Ho Ho Ho!” 

Still laughing, he’s struck down, with a single blow. 

Count Varley, still shaken, goes to thank Forde,  And brings out, as promised, a fitting reward.  But the Count looks confused, oh what’s he to do? “Wasn’t there another man with you? Take his share too.” 

Though Chris Crinkle was wrong to enact this ploy,  It’s never wrong to spread some holiday joy.  We hope you’ve been filled with some fun festive cheer,  Have the merriest Christmas, and a happy new year. 

Later, as Forde has returned to his place, The smile is missing from our bright painter’s face.  Maybe it’s just the memory of Chris, the villainous scum,  Tell me, dear Forde please tell me, what has got you so glum? 

“It’s █████.” He sighs, “Now where could he be? He may be unpleasant, but I didn’t think he’d flee. I asked around the school, every answer’s the same, No one’s ever heard of a man by that name.” 

Well you see- “I’m not finished.” He speaks with a blank stare.  “When I say the name █████, it’s like there’s nothing there. And how did I not notice it? This entire time,  Everything I’ve said has been compelled to rhyme.”

What Forde doesn’t know (he couldn’t, I’m sure), Is that this sort of thing has happened before, The memories usually fade right away,  But instead of threads ending, what happened today,  He was forced to finish this fine Yuletide play. 

“It’s happened before?” Forde says, rather blue.  “No- but that couldn’t- it cannot be true! Though I guess not remembering’s kinda the point,  I don’t think my memories could be that disjoint.” 

You forget when they leave, that’s always the rule.  Though you’ll recall them once more should they return to the school.  Now please, take a nap, it’s fine if you snore. When you wake up, this will not burden you anymore. 

“If I’m going to lose my memories anyway, What other times have my thoughts gone astray?”  Do you really want to know, though it may hurt you? Forde gulps and nods, “I promise, I do.”

E███y█, ███ri██e, █u██s██, ███ll, ████.  Sir ██████, Li████, your friends, but they went. 

“Thank you.” Forde says. “Even though they are gone,  I am grateful for every one of my bonds.”  A very good answer, that’s very on theme. 

And at that moment, Forde awakes from his dream. 

No memory of those names is still present,  So no time to think about what that all meant.  But thank you, dear reader, for playing your part, And thanks for the bonds that Forde keeps in his heart, I’m eternally grateful for how this year went, Now onwards and upwards, to the lore event!

Now, here’s something that we haven’t seen in a while,  On his face Forde wears a bright beaming smile.

[thebestestofbees]

Halloween ain't over til I say it's over.

After a little bit, Poppy finally got used to your fully decorated house, there was suddenly a knock on the door, making Poppy jump and clutch onto your arm. You look over at the door to which Home opened the door, revealing Eddie, who was carrying ten pumpkins in his arms that covered most of his face along with a small bag holding onto his arm.

"alright- got all the pumpkins." Eddie strained to say as he toddled his way into the house, and placed the pumpkins down on the table. You gave a small evil giggle as you walked over into your kitchen, taking out your pumpkin carving utensils out of your drawer.

"Oh yeah and Sally, I got the stuff for the costumes!" Eddie had said as Sally approached him. Eddie gave Sally the bag of stuff. "Thank you mailman." Sally thanked, taking the bag out of Eddie's hand and going back into the room not before complimenting your decor once more. You gave the utensils a quick rinse before going into the living room and placing them by the pumpkins.

Eddie looked over your shoulder, curious as to why you were bringing out such weird looking utensils. "So, if I may, what are we gonna do?" Eddie spoke up after watching you for a second or two.

"We're gonna carve pumpkins. For decoration." You say, gesturing to the pumpkins before going back to a drawer and grabbing pumpkin stencils and laying them out. "And how are we gonna do that?" Eddie asked, mildly confused.

"I'll show you all first then." You say as if occured to you that maybe the neighborhood doesn't celebrate Halloween this certain way. You walk over to the guest room and crack open the door, peaking your head inside.

"Hey y'all, we're going to carve pumpkins after I get Julie and Frank from the park." You say and Sally nods, fixing with the sleeves of her dress. "Of course, Neighbor, we're almost done fixing up our festivities as well and Franklin and Juliet just has to be here for that. you don't mind Poppy making treats, do you?" Sally turned to look at you for the question. "Not at all." You say and quietly duck out of the room.

After you shut the door, Eddie came up behind you. "Do you mind if i come with?" Eddie asked, with pure intentions. You moved past him and nodded. "yeah go ahead. We're gonna be walking anyways." you say, walking to the front, Eddie following

you and Eddie leave your Home and turn on the sidewalk and start walking. the park wasn't that far from your house, just one or two blocks away, that played a role as to why you would even let Frank and Julie go there in the first place can't have any of the puppets being doll-napped.

it only took about 15 minutes to get there, and when you got there you found an intresting sight. Julie had climbed the main play place, grinning wildly as Frank, on the ground looking up at Julie, was freaking out, their arms out as if they were going to catch Julie, if she happened to fall from the set.

"Julie!?"

"Frank! Julie!" You and Eddie called, making both Puppets look at you.

"Neighbor!"

You walked up to the play place and Julie smiled. "Catch me!!" Julie cheered, jumping from the top of the place, making you instinctively reach out and take a step back.

Julie fell into your arms, almost making you fall on your butt. "Hey." You chuckle, placing Julie on the ground as Frank, walked over to you. "Hiya neighbor!" Julie waved before noticing Eddie clutching his uniform where his heart was (or was supposed to be). "Hi Eddie!!"

"let's go, we're getting ready to carve pumpkins." You say as you leave the park, Frank, Julie, and Eddie following you. "carving pumpkins? That's a new one." Frank comments, raising their eyebrow.

The walk back was more lively then not. Dispite just leaving the park, Julie seemed still full of energy along with Frank, even when they were a little toned down, but still full of joy.

As you make it to your house, you go to unlock the door only for it to swing open, revealing Sally, decorated in a clownish outfit. "Welcome home Neighbor!"

If you didn't know any better, you'd say Sally was going for a killer clown approach, but since you did, you blurted out, "Pedrolino...?"

It looked distinctly like someone you and your friends had created a project on in history class. A 'comic servant', as Google called it, for the Commeuia Dell'Arte. you and your friends just liked to call them a funky lookin jester.

Sally physically brightened at your words, you nearly squinted. "Yes!" Sally beamed, nearly hopping up and down as she took your hand and dragged you inside, the others following. "I knew someone like you would be intelligent enough to understand the importance of the Commeuia Dell'arte! Although i almost doubted you! you continue to surprise me Neighbor!" Sally beamed up at you as you squinted at the sheer brightness of the star.

"...thanks..?" you didn't know weather to take that as a compliment or not so you just patted Sally on the head, gently on her glowing rays, warmth radiating from the small, but bright star.

"Alright." You turn and clap your hands, "Is everyone here?"

"You can bet your tail on it!" Laughed Barnaby as he walked through the kitchen doorway with Howdy and Poppy on his heels, Poppy having a pair of oven gloves on each wing. You did a head count realizing your missing only one. "Wally. Where's Wally?" You ask, looking around for the shorter Puppet, you noticed the big three all had costumes on. Barnaby of a vampiric version of himself a weredog maybe, Poppy was a pumpkin (That might have problems down the line), and Howdy was a sheet ghost, only cutting out holes for his eyes and antennae.

"I'm here, Neighbor." Said Wally as he stepped out of the Guest room in a dashing devil costume set with a little pitch fork. you let out an 'aw' at the costume before Julie gasped loudly. "We forgot to put on our costumes! Come on Frank!" Julie said, pulling Frank to the guest room and closing the door behind them.

Welp, now you had to wait for them. You sat on the bar stool as Poppy got up, mentioning some treats in the oven as she went to the kitchen.

You scanned over the puppets that were all sitting on the couch, Barnaby and Howdy went back to chatting about Howdy's store, probably what to do if they never get back. Sally, now bored of mavelling over your decorations, was picking at the fleece where her nails would be if she had any. And Wally, the one lastly noticed was staring at you with his big ol eyes.

"Dont you have a costume, Neighbor?" you raised an eyebrow at that.

"Should I have one?" You ask, a terrible mistake because the moment you uttered those words, Sally gasped both loudly and dramatically, leaping to the backof the couch as if you had offended her to the point of no return, even Barnaby and Howdy looked over.

"What'd you say to the Star now, lil bud?" Barnaby firstly asked Wally in a joking manner before Sally pointed at you accusingly.

"They just asked of they needed a costume on the Macabe Menagire of Monsterous Mischeif making!" Sally said as if witnessing you commit a crime. Barnaby made a look of 'oh.' then looked to you.

"You're in deep trouble now, kid. commitimg treason to that degree is unforgivable" He chuckled at your soon to be misfortune as Sally fumed.

"This cannot do, Neighbor! You're getting a costume and we're making it from scratch!" She huffed marching her way to your room, grabbing your wrist and pulling you along.

"Yay..?" You say, knowing just how easily you could take your hand back from the shining puppet, but you think you'll let her have this victory against you.

[th3-0bjectivist]

1500 FOLLOWERS CELEBRATION post w/ page mascot Springin' Chip!

Heya folks! Springin’ Chip here with a very special celebratory post! This last week, th3-0bjectivist hit 1500 followers! To be fair, about a quarter of his followers are more than likely AI pornbots, but let’s not get hung up on unnecessary details! Being a canine, there’s very little that I can personally offer our audience on Tumblr… save for some drool, dog snot, and poop. So, we’re going to celebrate the only way I know how!

Pictured with me in this photoset is my big sister, Ruby, and for this commemorative post you get to watch me beat her up! I assault my big sister all the time these days, sometimes for no reason, numerous times a day! I think she likes it! If weight class and overall size were a factor, Ruby could just brush my little Spaniel ass aside like a dust bunny. But she plays well with me, and just lets me kinda passively dominate her most days. Works for me! On with the festivities!!!

And now for some page lore! About a decade ago, th3-0bjectivist was comically barely known as v3ritasartiste on Tumblr. It was a page centered around conspiracy theories… and art, and music. And whooooooo boy, did it suck ass through a bamboo straw! The layout was atrocious, the conspiracy-addled dipshit in charge of the page had no idea what he was doing because he was high out of his mind on government-strength sativa and indica strains 24/7, and nothing he posted made a lick of sense! After gaining a whopping 78 followers over two years, butt-hurt and utterly disregarded, v3ritasartiste shut down his page out of pure frustration.

Yeah, take that Ruby! Years later, during the stay-at-home fallout from ***THE UNSPECIFIED VIRUS FROM UNKNOWN ORIGINS***, v3ritasartiste became th3-0bjectivist with three main goals in mind: 1. Jettison the conspiracy bullshit entirely 2. Create a page that actually makes contextual sense 3. Promote art, both own and others. And, by gum, it worked! Well… sorta. There was still a learning curve and he pissed off a few people to start things off (those blocks were well-earned in retrospect) because he was too brash and cocky, but some social refinement and further diversification of materials led us to where we are today. 1500 and counting!

Do ya see how Ruby just lets me rule her!? She could swallow me in a single gulp, damn I love her so much! Getting back to the point of this post, th3-0 wants you to know he greatly appreciates your follows, your likes, reposts, and most importantly your presence here on Tumblr! You may not realize it, but we’re all on a journey together while we’re on this platform. th3-0 has been able to share some of his joys, sorrows and art with you over the years… and those moments aren’t just precious, they are the universal moments that bring us all together as a species. Well… not me personally per se. Just to be clear, I’m a dog! Th3-0, who is a human, just wanted me to express those things to you… yeah, that’s the ticket.

Unlike last year, we’re at full mast with new art. We’ve got plenty of new paintings coming which just need to be more fully realized. We’ve practically cornered the market on original painting-animations on Tumblr, and musical entries and snarky commentary will continue to flow like wine until we’ve determined they are no longer working for us (which will be NEVER). Warts and all, th3-0bjectivist LOVES Tumblr. And just a reminder, if you’re ever interested in purchasing some canvas work, which would really help us, just head on over to our page on DeviantArt and browse the selections in the Featured section. Our wall decorations can make your home or business weirder and more wondrous at the same time! Tumblr restricts gifs to a pathetic 10MB download, which severely confines the visual quality of the gifs. But on DeviantArt, all our artistic gifs are available in high definition and they’re free to download!

Time for a nap with my big sis…. while th3-0bjectivist deletes 386,712,364,871,236,857,623,547,612,376,451,457,282,367,487,264 pornbot messages from his Tumblr inbox! Thanks Tumblr, we love you all!

Until next time fellow literate dogs, ¬ Springin’ Chip for th3-0bjectivist

The 0bjectivist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2sONH8IwzL_2sZie0ZNSnw/

I’m also on BitChute: https://www.bitchute.com/channel/uvKfJpNkzkIL/

FULL ART GALLERY on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/th3_0bjectivist_gallery/ <---- screw that garbage website, we deleted our profile this year!

FULL ART GALLERY on DeviantArt at: https://www.deviantart.com/th3-0bjectivist/gallery

[leggyre]

hi all! sorry, this is going to be a bit of a sad post.

I just want to share that Nano passed away today. He was a very old bun at 9 years old and we just couldn't keep it up with his increasingly difficult health issues.

As of right now, I'm not asking for consolation or any words of comfort. It's the first time I'm dealing with a loss of this scale, of something I've loved so dearly for so long, that I'll never get back.

I'm still coming to terms about how I feel about it. There were so many times I felt like meeting him was fate. And to be honest, I still do. I set out to adopt a classic white bunny(because honestly that's the only color I had ever seen in the place before) but between all the sleepy or hungry babies there was a little black mischievous boy hoping around and approaching people who gave my finger little kisses and I just couldn't leave him there. We didn't have any boxes or cages to carry him in so he got to pee on my lap on the way home lol

The first time he licked me after that day, something I thought would take ages to happen after lengthy Bunny Research(tm) telling me so, was maybe within a few days or a week, but what made the moment as special as it was for me was the fact I was sitting on the ground, having a breakdown, crying my eyes out. I have a really hard time using the word love to others because I'm never sure of my feelings and I don't want to say it without meaning, but from then on I had never been so sure about how much I loved him.

I have a lot of other stories like that. He helped me learn a lot about myself. He gave me company at my worst. I missed him so much when I had to stop allowing him on the bed to take a nap with me because one day he just decided peeing there was okay. I laid down on the floor on the most uncomfortable positions for the longest time because he had fallen asleep in my arms. I did that this morning, after I was told he might not make it when we went to see the vet today. It didn't even feel like anything was wrong, really. I kinda thought maybe we shouldn't go and I could keep doing that tomorrow. And the day after. And the next. But every time he woke up and shuffled around it was so easy for me to tell he was uncomfortable, trying to find a way to lay down in a way that would ease the pain. He didn't look any different to most people, but I memorized every single kind of motion he ever did.

And it's funny to think that he knew me the same way. He knew exactly what me shutting off the computer sounded like and that it was the perfect time to beg for snacks and attention. He knew when I was hiding something for him. He knew exactly where I walked so he could leave the god damned piss traps in the way when he was mad at me. He knew that if he kept poking his nose out the fence long enough I'd come back eventually to pet him more even if I had already walked all the way to my bed and laid down. And he knew that he could come to me for comfort whenever he felt scared or in pain. He trusted me so much and that meant the world to me.

Just to add one weird, maybe funny thing that's gonna keep me pondering forever; one day, years ago, I wished that I could be the one to take any pain he'd ever feel. Since then, I kind of took note that we'd have our sickest days together, and often in similar ways. It's most likely confirmation bias, but I do like to think I did manage to take some of his pain from him.

Well. My plan was just to share the news and go on with my day. Think about stuff. Couldn't keep from writing this much, though, so I just decided to let it all out anyway.

Again, I don't want any comfort. I will always love him, the things he taught me, and the memories I'm blessed with. I will be okay.

I want the thought of him to keep bringing joy into my life, because that's the thing he's always been the best at. The second best was destroying specifically videogame related cables.

heres some shenanigans to brighten up the mood :]

and here's a cute pic from years ago as well 🐇💞

[viilpstick]

Hey I forgot I promised to make an alternative ending for jamali's 5+1 fic😍 (I'm procrastinating on taking a nap bc I'm stupid and don't listen to my body). It's not long, no worries, just wanted to explore this idea hehe

•••

(...) "Thank you." She said, then, tried to take back her confidence with her usual teasing nature: "if you think I'm so pretty, how about giving me a kiss?"

Jamil stared at her, not daring to move nor to speak. He knew she was just playing around, just messing with her favorite little toy, he was aware... But a part of him was so fed up he kind of wanted to do it. Just to see if it would shut her up.

"Alright." He said, and Damali widened her eyes in shock, not fully comprehending that he just agreed to her joke.

"Wait, are you se–"

She couldn't finish, not when Jamil was fighting against his better judgement. He needed to act fast before he gave up and walked away like a coward away, so he quickly put his hands on her jaw, bringing his face closer to hers and kissing her.

Damali's eyes stayed opened in shock, but soon she gave in to her emotions, ignoring all sense of reason only to find joy at that moment, to be able to finally feel him so close to her.

After all, this was no longer a mere game to her.

After they parted, Jamil looked down, his face red as he still held hers in his hands, almost as if not believing what he had just done.

"You... Have a tongue piercing."

"That's the first thing you tell me after I kiss you?" Jamil said, a chuckle escaping him and Damali couldn't help but smile.

"I didn't know. There was no way I would've known, I'm just surprised." Her hands moved to his face, leaving a gentle and quick kiss on his nose. "Still, I'm unsure if that was just my imagination... I'd like to confirm it."

"You're lucky I'm in a good mood."

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA THEY FRENCH KISSASS AHGSNQYDJWYSJAYSJQYDJWYZJAYSJWUSAJHSAJ

PANIC PANICKING ALOT

[evvy96]

Nightmares - Platonic!Artemis x Reader, hint of Robin x Reader

y/n=your name s/h/n=super hero name h/l=hair length h/c=hair colour e/c=eye colour

“Recognised. (S/h/n), B26. Nightwing, B01. Kid Flash, B02.”

You walked through the Zeta Tube into the living room of Mount Justice, nerves making you almost visibly shake as Nightwing called over your new team. “Team, I’d like you to meet (s/h/n). She’s going to be joining the team starting today. I’ll leave you all to get properly acquainted while I get your next mission brief from Batman, be nice.”

Everyone was silent for a few moments, not entirely sure as what to say to break the ice. Deciding it was better to just say something rather than the awkward silence, you spoke up. “Uh, hey guys. As Nightwing said, my alias is (s/h/n), but you guys can just call me (y/n). It’s… It’s nice to finally meet you all in person. I’ve been following you guys over the news for a couple years now. Really awesome work.” That seemed to have done the trick, as the team all smiled and started introducing themselves officially and, for everyone but Robin, revealed their civilian identities. A few of the team, namely Connor and Megan, were attending the school you were being transferred to starting the following week, so it was a comfort to know that you would have people to spend time with until you were comfortable in a new environment and could make your own friends. When the pleasantries were out of the way, everyone went their separate ways, and Artemis approached you to give you a tour of the mountain.

You marvelled at the structure within the mountain, making Artemis laugh whenever she caught your facial expressions. You spent an extensive amount of time checking out the training rooms, unable to resist testing out your skills against the archer in hand-to-hand combat for a few intense rounds. Artemis taught you the basics of using a bow and arrow, and then guided you to the room you would now be occupying. As you roamed over the spacious room, a whoosh sounded, and you turned to see Wally standing beside Artemis with a relaxed smile on his face, red hair slightly dishevelled. “Hey babe. Just wanted to triple check our date for tonight. Movies and ice-cream in my town yeah?” Artemis chuckled, “Yeah Wall, we’re still set for tonight. I’m just gonna make sure (y/n) is properly settled in her room then I’ll go get ready. We can leave in about an hour, kay?” “Sweet. I’ll see you in an hour, angel.” With a swift kiss to her cheek, Wally sped away, in search of a way to kill time before their date. “So, are you guys a thing, or a potential thing?” You teased, bringing forth a blush to Artemis’ cheeks. “Um, I’m not sure yet. Wally’s super sweet, when he’s not stuffing his face with junk food.” You both laughed at this. “We’ve only been on a couple dates, I think I need a little more time before I make any big decisions.” “Well, he likes you, a heap. I know I just met you and all, but I think you should give him a chance.” Artemis’ eyes widened at your words, “H-how do you know he likes me?” You chuckled softly, “Besides the kiss on the cheek and the fact that his smile nearly broke his face when you confirmed your date? His thoughts were basically screaming his joy about going out with you again. That’s one of my powers; I can hear people’s thoughts and read emotions. I can’t influence them or get into your head, but it certainly comes in handy when helping out a friend.” With that, you turned back to your room, settling your pack on the bed and lying beside it. “I think I’m gonna have a little nap, if that’s okay. Our combat training has really drained me. You go get ready for your date. Have fun.” “Thanks (y/n). I’ll see you later tonight I guess. Dinner is normally at about 7, unless we have a mission. Welcome to the team.” With a smile and a wave, Artemis shut the door behind her as she walked down the hall to her room, leaving you to turn down the covers and settle in for a short sleep.

It was dark on the side of the road, the only light being the blazing inferno that used to be your family car. It had all happened so fast. One second, you were walking towards the car to go to dinner with your parents, the next, the vehicle had exploded.

You shakily pushed yourself to your feet, holding your dislocated shoulder tenderly to your side as the sounds of sirens filled your ears and the flashing lights of police cars and an ambulance illuminated the front of your house.

Next thing you remember, you’re being dragged away from the scene. From your home, where you had grown up and spent the best days of your childhood, screaming for your mom and dad and expecting them to emerge from the flames of the car somehow unharmed and hug her and tell her everything was going to be okay.

You woke with a small shout, shooting up into a sitting position on your bed, (e/c) eyes wide, breathing heavy and heart racing.

It had been the same every night since the attack. You had hoped that moving into the tower would somehow miraculously cure you of the haunting memory, or at least stop you from reliving it every time you shut your eyes for longer than a blink, but no such luck. You had been part of the team for a good few weeks by now. You were still adjusting to not only hearing everyone’s voices in your head, but also being able to communicate back to them. You had been on a few missions, each successful, but the most recent one had left you a little on edge emotion wise.

The villain you had been facing was one no one was familiar with, yet she seemed to be very familiar with each and every member of the team, each of their strengths and weaknesses, their worst nightmares. Her powers allowed her to tap into those nightmares, leaving everyone to relive them and act them out in fear until she was ready to deal with them, one by one. You didn’t know what everyone else saw, but apparently a previous mission had allowed them to break the trance quite quickly, easily overpowering the villain as a group, before noticing you hadn’t snapped out of it yet. They listened to you shout and cry for your parents, squirming from their grasps as they tried to calm you down and wake you up. When Robin finally managed to rouse you from your dream state, you looked around to see the damage you had caused. Many members of the team were holding various parts of their bodies where apparently you had managed to get a hit in. Wally was sporting a red eye that was sure to turn black as the next week passed. You apologised profusely to each person before going silent, walking back to the Bio-Ship and sitting quietly until you returned to the mountain, slipping away to your room and locking the door and sobbing silently so no one would come to check on you.

Unbeknownst to you, the team were being filled in on your history, how you got your powers and how you came to live with the team to begin with. Everyone was saddened by the story of how you your parents had been murdered by members of the Injustice League when you were only 8 years old and spent years bouncing from Foster Home to Group Home, even at one point, being adopted only to be sent back when they couple had their own child. However, no one was as upset as Artemis. She had formed a special connection with you over the weeks since you had arrived, coming to love you like a little sister and a dear friend. She felt ashamed with herself to have not asked you about your past or why you lived with them in the first place. It had always been typical girl talk and movie marathons without anything truly meaningful discussed between you two.

After the debrief, she had made a beeline to your room, raising a hand to knock on your door before her enhanced hearing picked up on your sobs. Her heart broke at the sounds and despite the strong urge to break down your door and wrap you in her arms until your tears ceased, she decided to leave you be until you were ready to talk.

That night Artemis lay in bed, sleep evading her. Her thoughts were consumed with you were okay, and until she had spoken to you face to face and you had assured her you were okay again, she wouldn’t sleep tonight. She slipped out from under the covers, tip-toeing to your room and easing the, now unlocked, door open and peeking into your room. It was meticulously clean, not a stray piece of clothing or schoolbook in sight, but what caught her attention was your struggling form on the bed, soft whimpers escaping you as you dreamt. Your flailing intensified as she approached the edge of your bed, your limbs becoming a tangled mess beneath the sheets. Artemis rushed to your side, holding down your arms and calling out to you. “(Y/n), (y/n) come on, wake up. (Y/N)!” You shot up at her shout, breathing heavy as your eyes frantically swept the room before landing on the reason behind your disrupted nightmare. It was dead silent for a moment as you stared at each other, before the dam broke and you collapsed into her waiting arms, sobbing uncontrollably as she wrapped you into a tight hug, whispering words of comfort into your ear softly as she ran her hand through your (h/l) (h/c) hair.

When your tears had subsided and your breathing had evened out, you pulled away from the comforting embrace. “I’m sorry you had to see that. I didn’t want anyone to see me like that.” Artemis frowned, “Why? (Y/n) we’re a team, we see each other at our best AND our worst. You shouldn’t hide this side of you from us. We all care about you, and we got really scared when we couldn’t snap you out of Stormsong’s spell. We don’t care that you fought with us, or that you got a few, really REALLY impressive shots in, but what we do care about is your past. We wanted to wait until you had been with us longer to ask what happened to you, but after this morning, Batman decided it was better for us to know now. I’m so sorry we never asked you what your history was like, and we can’t believe all the crap you’ve been through. You’re so strong, we had no idea. But we’re all here for you. No matter what; whether you have a nightmare, or even if you can’t get to sleep, we’ll be there to make it all easier. You’re one of us (y/n); you’re part of our weird little family now.”

You smiled at your friend, wiping away more tears that had leaked from your eyes at her words and thanking her for everything she was doing to ensure she had a place with the Young Justice Team. The remainder of the night was spent with you telling Artemis about everything you remembered about your parents and your life before their deaths. The archer listened intently without a falter; she didn’t once feel exhaustion from the previous day seep into her system, entranced by the stories you told and letting her imagination run wild with the words you spoke.

From then on, your life with the team improved 100%. You were still plagued with nightmares, but when you awoke, you were always woken to the sight of Artemis, or, after you had entered a relationship, Robin (Tim), by your side to hug the tears and bad dreams away (and in Tim’s case, kiss). The rest of the team would do smaller thing to show their support for you. They stayed up with you having movie marathons whenever the nightmare became too much, and even let you in on their own histories and night terrors. You in turn promised to be there for them when the night became too hard to deal with, and had each and every person’s back at the slightest sign of danger on missions. Life was back on track, and you couldn’t have been happier with the way it was turning out.

[fraener]

1/27/25

ive been thinking it was the 27th for so many days in a row this week...not sure why. i fell a little ill the last few days, stomach trouble and that strange anxiety and bad taste in the back of the throat the roughens the edges of everything when there's a virus present in the body. duncan died a few days ago. i laid with p, s won't talk to me. i wrote a joyous recounting of it in here a few days ago but didnt save it before my computer shut down and so enough time has passed for me to be too afraid of the joy we shared enough to record it. what a sad thing to write. its been bright, the ice never leaves the shadows and each morning everything is blanketed in a fine blue frost. i didnt want to have my heart broken right now. im not sure p knows how to close a door once its been opened. i think he might be a little in love with me, a melancholy thing. how i wish i could reciprocate. how i wish we could go on and face the world together, that he wasnt leaving, that i could hold him. he kept saying the cat was already out of the bag. he feels strong in his desire, optimistic in his declaration. ive been withholding, i know. i dont want to fight to matter outside of his love for me. i dont want to fight to be considered as an individual. im supposed to see him today, i can tell he wants comfort. i am deciding whether i want to see him today more than i want to avoid seeing him today. i think i will cry either way. i dont think i can just take a nap and wake up into a day i can handle today, because i dont think ill really feel better about tomorrow, either. im tired of my body being treated as a dirty thing that taints and becomes tainted. i dont know what to do. i dont like being asked to choose, i dont like being treated like i dont have any influence, either. im so sad about duncan. i just sort of want to be left alone today. mostly because i dont think anyone could take care of me through this. i want to be given the consideration they give one another, but i am being pushed to the side like im a nuisance. im "just one more thing to deal with" according to s. theres no way to have my influence felt i dont think, all i can do is say how i feel to p, maybe text s later and tell her that im really hurt by being brushed off. i dont think i will say anything to her because she already said she didnt want to talk to me and i dont want to beg for something she doesnt want to offer. i wont be made to beg.

moments after this earlier entry, he broke things off with me. i realized in that conversation i wouldnt just be satisfied with what he could offer anyways, i would always want more than what he could give me if he continues to live the way he does. ive never known what its like really to have a companion like s is to him, i have f and thats close enough to understand on some level. but we have always gone from one another and come back in comfort and trust. eating p was like eating candied violets with my hands from a wooden bowl at c.b's table in the dim light of candlefire and dusk. can i remember that well enough for my heart to stop breaking? i felt the shift of all my little shadows reaching for him at once- no longer hands outstretched to r...can i forgive that i was shown something so beautiful and delicious and pristine and without fault and then only later be shown id likely never see it again? i can candy violets, i cannot find a replacement for what he did to my body and soul. i found a new trail at the back of the yogurt bones field and all i could think was how i wanted to bring him there, but i doubt well ever go at the time of year i pictured. ive been waiting what feels like my whole life thus far for june. will it come? its there every time i close my eyes. he loved when i told him that, that every moment i turned away i was sure it was june behind my back. i want to know what joy that june really contains. a long road to anew and unknowable. washed clean by another wave of slander and scrutiny....wonder how few friends ill have at the other end of this one lol. scorned whore yet again its like an award i cant stop winning

i want to record that all the cards ive drawn about him today indicated a great threat coming in the form of a seduction, something i want desperately that will ruin everything for me if i pursue it and leave me with nothing. i feel like this warning is coming too late but i fear for whats to come. the cards have also said i will be betrayed, slandered, and used...and a period of solitude is going to ensue. all the signs are kind of pointing to stay the fuck away from these people but its so hard to say no to something you want so so badly. i know that he cant actually give me what im looking for and i dont feel like i want to just be used right now for the betterment of his relationship with someone else. i want to trust him so badly. i want to so badly i dont know if i can stop myself from just falling for it all over again. because i would ruin everything for him, in this moment, knowing what i know. all he would have to do is say the word and i would go with him nearly anywhere. and he never will, and if he does it will be false, and i have to put it out of my mind and know that it will never, ever happen again. hope to be putting it behind me like it never did.