#I’ll start working on my shrine for it tomorrow

[space-girlllll]

I just got these last night and they are now my prized possessions

(I got remarried empress and:

Tbate!!!)

[lenasprouts-words]

olderbrother!skz headcanons :3

gn!reader with a scenerio w menstruation in changbin’s! maknae line

i want an older brother… anyways

bang chan

oh ho ho you KNOW hes gonna be super duper protective of u

like nuh uh the kids can NOT meet you

but u still get to hang out w maknae + jin line (closer to their age)

age gap is like three years or smth so

his parents adopted you when he was four and u were one

movie nights every weekend frfr

or atleast movie nights on call

and whenever you got tea, he’s on the ready

best best advice, like, ever

sometimes you wonder if this is his nineteenth life or smth

so wise

you painted a mug for him once

no one is allowed to touch it

it has its place in the gym bros’ dorm

sometimes picks you up and runs when your talking to someone

and if you ignore him he’ll start cuddling up to you

’channie get tf away go annoy seungmin or whatever im studying’

gives you nicknames like ‘buggy bear’ and ‘baby duck’

makes you learn languages with him

when he learned ikaw for manila, ph concert he showed you first

bc he knows you like listening to tagalog

he has videos of you singing and falls asleep to it when he gets homesick

lets you listen to his unreleased songs and tracks on his laptop

you got to make one that one time at home too

you send little messages to him thru out the day

and scold him when he’s up working

you know bc he gave you his location

you bought his bubble and constantly tease him

when he comes home he takes you and berry to the aquarium

he picks you up and spins you when yall hug

its the funnest thing ever

will not hesitate to bring up that time you ate hamster poop thinking it was choco chips

lee know

okay he’d be really scary to your friends but like a cat around you

your age gap b like, one or two years

he annoys you about anything

crushes, enemies, good animes or mangas

stuff like that

in turn you bug him about the members

’whats jisung like when hes sick’ ‘oh do you know innie’s plans are tomorrow’

he finds your hyunjin pc collection and blows your phone up

but his hugs are so nice and warm

he holds you by the shoulders and his hands go down your back

eventually he starts tickling you

but you use the self defense moves he’s been teaching you

one of your middle school friends had a crush on him

they were flabbergasted when you walked home together

buys you things that remind you of him

and leaves it on your window sill/table/bed

his favorite hoodie is the bunny w the middle finger bc you gave it to him

makes your lunch for you and leaves slightly passive aggressive notes in them, still sweet tho

although once you got a note that said

’give me back my hoodie or i’ll shove a water bottle up your asshole. xoxo lino hyung’ that was for jisung

once decided to pick you up from work to get sushi

your coworkers were like

’wow i didnt know they had a boyfriend’

you cried laughing hearing that and so did min

teased you about the fanfic you wrote when you were thirteen

and you tease him about the 2PM shrine he had

obviously you both r cat ppl

so he takes you to cat cafe dates all the time

insists on paying and saying you’ll pay next time

sends random ass pics on tour all the time

changbin

he absolutely cherishes you

like holds you up like a trophy infront of his friends all the time

youre two-three years apart from each other

he loves loves giving you piggy back rides

also loves squeezing the life out of you

youre the one he goes to when he buys something

and he’s the one you go to for relationship advice

once you took him to an amusement park

your camera roll was full of blackmail

tens of millions of inside jokes

one of the kids will fix their hair and you’ll both burst out laughing

bc once changbin ran into a pole fixing his hair

your ultimate group is newjeans so you went to a fansign

and got bin a signed teddybear

he cried when you gave it

he constantly tells you to be safe

when your going somewhere

’bye baby cub (nickname lol), be safe have fun love ya!’

when you need a little pick me up

he comes to you with your favorite ice cream flavor and his laptop

your emergency contact

one of your friends has to text him and he gets super suspicious

’cub who tf is this? why were they texting me?’

almost started a whole ass fight

its okay tho he apologized and bought chocolate

constantly tells you to go to bed early bc he doesn’t want you to ‘become like channie-hyung’

will run to get you what you need

if you got your period and arent prepared he’ll know

just sprints to the nearest cvs

even cleans up your nasty bedsheets bc u leaked

’oh dont worry cub i can handle it’

your on his close friends list on instagram

most times its just dedications to you that he puts on his story

hyunjin

his day one frfr

like your only a year apart so your tight asf

his hugs will be gentle but so warm

bear hugs>>>>

his huge ass hands will totally go around your neck for comfort

he also digs his face into your shoulder

he paints many things for you

like he’ll also give you his unfinished projects when he’s sick of them

shines when you compliment him

teaches you choreos and lets you make up some

dyes your hair often too

spa nights where its just the two of you with a movie of your choice in the bg

those are the days where you can just. let go

tea gets spilt. i mean like, you know absolutely everything abt the other atp

spontaneous karoake nights

he gets worried when you drink tho

’noooo what if you fall on your face and then it gets ruined!!’

when he’s tired or down tho

one of the members text you and you come over with your comfort box you packed for these situations

face masks, iced americanos, watermelons, fluffy blankets, llama eye masks for sleeping, an air purifier, room spray, and a huge hoodie and sweatpants/shorts bc he probs did NOT shower in his funk

when he goes home you take walks together and catch up

also you just. really like smelling his room

it smells like flowers and the perfume your late grandfather used

gifts you things from versace

his favorite colors are black and white; yours are brown and grey

picture wall of polaroids w photos u took together

you stream his music 24/7

he writes sad sad songs abt missing you

worse than hannie and his break up songs 😭

working on the maknae line!

[thebibutterflyao3]

Day Twenty-Three - Train @sapphicmicrofics

April Daily Series - 563 words

<<<Previous Part OR Start Here

“What’s this?” Marlene’s voice was directly behind her now. She’d apparently grown tired of sifting through the box of memories and moved on to the corkboard beside Dorcas’s bed.

Dorcas released a stream of smoke through the window. “What does it look like?

“Pandora called it a ‘shrine.’”

The harsh scoff clipped Dorcas’s throat on the way out. “Then it’s an awfully shitty shrine.”

Marlene hummed a note of disagreement, but didn’t argue. She was far less combative today, which should have been suspicious, but Dorcas didn’t have the energy to defend herself. The tension she’d carried since Marlene’s arrival wore her down.

“I miss my old number. The team gave it to someone else when I left Scotland. I’m number thirty now.”

Dorcas tried to ignore the tug of nostalgia. She’d spent so many hours behind protective glass watching her girlfriend’s #14 jersey with rapt attention, clocking every shift in her stance and clawing back the urge to rush onto the ice to protect her when the other team crowded her net. Often, she left games with scratches on her chest from blindly grappling for Marlene’s lucky charm, an Irish claddagh ring from her grandmother that she wore around her neck.

“Thirty is a solid number,” Dorcas said, idly tapping her cigarette out the window. “Especially doubled on your jersey, front and back. It’s related to career success.”

“Really? That’s good to know.”

Marlene moved closer and plopped on the bench. “Be honest with me, Cas. Do you want me to step on that train tomorrow? Will you miss me?”

“My feelings won’t change the outcome, so why does it matter?” Dorcas asked.

“You don’t know that.”

Dorcas flicked the dying cherry off of her cigarette and rolled the filter between her fingers. “I know that you won’t leave your team and long-distance doesn’t work. I know that you run when it hurts. Nothing has changed.”

“A few things have changed, actually. My team went recreational. We have scrimmages, but don’t compete. My gigs are mostly at local clubs, but I travel a bit too. I have a show in London in two weeks,” Marlene said, shifting closer. “I can send you tickets, if you want.”

“And the cowardice?” Dorcas prompted. “Still fleeing if it’s hard? I haven’t gone soft since you left.”

Marlene sighed theatrically. “I should hope not. I always liked your sharp wit and pointy elbows.”

“Hilarious.”

Charming, as always. I wish she’d stop.

“I’m here now, Cas. If I didn’t bolt out of here when you told me off the first night and I didn’t run after making a complete arse of myself yesterday morning, isn’t that proof that I’m not quite the coward I used to be?”

Dorcas rested her temple against the window and closed her eyes. The cold glass tempered her frustration a bit as she returned her attention to the people below. She preferred this distance over the six inches between her hip and Marlene’s. From here, she could see the bigger picture and remain an unbiased observer. In this room, she was a reluctant participant and couldn’t find a shred of objectivity.

“I suppose that is progress,” Dorcas admitted, her gaze trailing a couple across the street. They were holding hands and smiling at each other.

“Enough progress?” Marlene asked. “For you to think about it? About us?”

“I’ll think about it.”

Next Part>>>

[wildflower-otome]

[Translation] 9 R.I.P. - Yukimaro Heavenly Ending After Story

Source: 9 R.I.P. Stella Set Special Bonus Booklet Note: Major Spoilers for Yukimaro's Heavenly End below.

Only Your Spirit - Yukimaro Heavenly End After Story

Since I had become a spirit only for my mistress’ sake, the days and months had gone by—.

Today I was again waiting by the gates for my mistress to finish school.

.....Mistress, you sure are late today. Normally you would have come out by now. It can’t be that you’ve been attacked by a ghost—!

Just as I was about to break into a run, Lady Sayaka emerged from the gates-

‘Yukimaro-san! I’m so glad you were here after all.’

‘Oh, Lady Sayaka. Has something happened?’

‘Misa asked me to give you a message. The committee she’s in charge of is having a meeting, so she’ll be a little late.’

‘What, so that’s all it was. .....I’m so relieved it wasn’t a ghost.’

‘Hm? Did you say “a ghost” just now??’

—Oops. Just as I would expect of an occult enthusiast like Lady Sayaka. What sharp instincts she had, not even the slightest bit of information made it past her.

I felt indebted to Lady Sayaka and would have liked to tell her lots of things, but my mistress had told me not to say anything to her about the spirit world, or ghosts.

‘I didn’t say anything?’

‘You didn’t? I was so sure I heard you mention ghosts just now. Ah, speaking of ghosts.....’

.....On that note, until the arrival of my mistress, Lady Sayaka and I kept up a lively conversation on ghost stories.

* * *

‘Hm, a book that grants wishes, you say? How fascinating.’

‘Isn’t it just?! I’m certain it really must exist!’

As we were talking, my mistress made an appearance and- Hmmm?  Wh-whaaaaa-!?

‘Isshiki, if you don’t mind, shall we go home together? There’s something I’d like your advice on.....’

‘Sorry, I’ve got plans, maybe another time?’

‘Oh, I see, gotcha. See you tomorrow then.’

‘Yeah, see you.’

Who was that guy!? Just now, right in front of me, he had asked my mistress out!?!?

‘Lady Sayaka, who was that? Who is he to Lady Misa?!’

‘P-Please calm down. Your eyes are going bloodshot..... That was Matsuda-kun, he’s in the same committee as Misa..... that’s all.’

Matsuda, was it.....

I’ll remember this, Matsuda-whatever your name is. I’ve firmly engraved both your face and name into my memory. Next time I catch sight of you, you’d better be ready!

‘Yukimaro-san, sorry for making you wait~! Thanks for giving him my message, Sayaka. Or rather, did you two both end up waiting for me?’

‘Lady Misa, great work at school today.....’

‘? Yukimaro-san, you seem kind of off somehow.....’

‘W-Well then, I’ve got errands to run, so see you guys tomorrow! Bye!’

‘W-Wait a moment, Sayaka! .....She’s already gone. And here I was thinking we could go home together, all three of us-’

‘Mistress, there’s something I’d like to talk to you about for a moment. Come with me.’

‘Wh-What? If you say so.’

* * *

 I decided that we would have our talk at Tsukumo Shrine.

Here it was quiet, and there would also be no one to get in our way.

‘What is your relationship with that Matsuda guy!? I heard you’re both committee members, but it sure didn’t seem like just that to me!’

‘Oh. What, so that’s all this was about?’

‘”That’s all”!? The two of you were acting all close! Right in front of me, your boyfriend!’

Unable to repress my emotions, my mistress took my hand as if to restrain me.

‘Yukimaro-san, calm down! It’s true we’re on the same committee, but he’s just a friend.’

‘Uuugh.....so you say, but that might not be the case for Matsuda-whatever his name was. He said he wanted your advice, but I’m sure he was just trying to get closer to you.....’

‘Sheesh, you don’t need to cry, alright? Don’t you trust me?’

‘Of course I do! But still.....! .....I get anxious. You’re just so dear to me, Mistress, my emotions just start running wild.....’

My mistress took a handkerchief out of her pocket and wiped away my tears.

‘There’s no one for me but you, Yukimaro-san. I want to spend this life with you. And even after my death, we’ll be together.’ 

Lady Misa.....’

‘Hehe, I much prefer it when you call me that.’

‘Oh?’

‘I mean, recently you’re always calling me “mistress”..... I guess it’s because you’ve become my spirit, but when it comes right down to it, I would like it if you called me by my name.’

‘In that case, I shall address you as “Lady Misa” from now on. Or even just “Misa”..... perhaps not using honorifics will make it more obvious how close we are.’

 ‘Th-That’s-, um.....I don’t mind, but it does startle me a bit.’

Seeing Lady Misa’s face redden slightly as she smiled made my heart soar.

Gently touching her cheek, I lightly pressed my lips against hers.

‘Y-Yukimaro-san, we’re outside-’

‘I don’t care. The two of us are lovers. The couples in those foreign movies kiss all the time, even outside.’

‘But this is Japan.....’

As Lady Misa looked slightly exasperated, I kissed her lightly once more.

‘Where we are has nothing to do with it. Just having my beloved at my side makes me lose all reason.....’

Although I was extremely happy to be in love with Lady Misa, wanting to be even more fulfilled by the joy she gave me, I couldn’t help seeking her out. No matter how much time went by, this was a thirst that would probably never be quenched. 

Because I had ended up loving her to the point of abnormality.....

‘Misa, I love you from the bottom of my heart.’

[caramelstarlight]

“Two Worlds,One Heart”Prologue

Word Count: 1500+ A/N: Don’t flop I beg.

Tighnari X Kitsune Reader

"Y/N you're finally awake! We should go play!" Your sibling stated seeing you awake from your slumber as they patiently waited for you. Yae mikos tail ecstatically wagged at you, you'd mirror it back to her showing how happy both of you were. The life of an Yokai is interesting nonetheless but also hardships have to be encountered eventually. 

Your bond with Yae Miko strengthened to the point where it was unbreakable, but you both could only last around 2 weeks without one another. The calming atmosphere and presence you'd both give each other was always welcomed. 

"Yae miko is there any chance we can take a break from work for a few days? I'm sure the 3rd chief editor or main Shrine maiden can take care of our duties for a day or so." You asked, losing your energy from the weeks becoming more tiresome. "Now now my dear little one, if they take over our job for a few days, which way will we be able to tell it's all good?" She stated, eating her fried tofu while you ate your dango. It was a rare sight to see one of you out, rarer when both of you were. 

Unlike yae, you had your tail and ears out while Yae only had her ears. Everyone knew what Yokai you were, the Kitsune, almighty beings who gain a tail every 100 years and becomes more powerful with each tail granted. It was nearly impossible for inazumians to guess it but it was entertaining nonetheless for you and Miko to watch them all bicker about the ages of you both.

You looked at her with curiosity, she'd give you a hm in return of your gaze towards her. "Well can I at least go Yae Miko?" You stated, hangs moving forward and becoming fists while staring at her with anticipation. "Of course you can dear~ Just don't have too much fun that you don't come back alright?" 

She stated, continuing to eat her noodles and tofu. You were ecstatic about leaving inazuma for a little period of time. Goodness everyone was staring at your tail, swishing rapidly side to side. Glad the chairs didn't have a back and instead were stools. Or else your tail would be uncomfortable. 

"Does that mean I can finally go to Sumeru?" You said your usually pinned down ears slightly rised, hoping you heard Yae Miko clearly.”Yes, I’ll miss you though, make sure to send back letters to dear me.” She stated giving you a headpat and slightly ruffled your hair. “When do you plan to go? We need to prepare you.” Miko stated, seemingly finished with her meal and her attention fixed on you. “I was hoping to do it next week… Monday or well start my trip on Sunday perhaps.” 

“We’ll get the check.” Miko stated seeing you finished your dango, You getting out your purse ready to pay when she gave you a gaze saying “I’ll pay for it.” With a wink on her face. Luckily you understood. “Miko if I’m correct it’s currently Wednesday. I’m pretty sure it’s 3pm by now and we came around 2:30pm. So if I plan to arrive there daytime… Should I go around 11pm? I doubt the boat will be quick, especially if the shoguns lightning may struck which it shouldn’t because of our relationship is stable with her.” You stated, trying to remember correctly. 

“My my, when did you become a calculator?” She stated slightly teasing you. “Alright, I’ll let the Publishing house and the Shrine maidens know today or tomorrow. In the meantime, may you help me with reading our apprentices works? Or do you want to help the shrine maidens today?” She asked, stopping in her tracks turning back and waited for your reply. 

“Well which one are you doing today Miko? I thought you were going to read the works we have. Or are you changing your mind based on my input?” You asked. Thinking about the question she had just asked. “Well I’m going to read, you recently visited Mondstadt didn’t you? Maybe we could add a few subtle details into the stories. Or maybe Ms hina can help us out with her column.” She did her signature laugh. “Do we really need to bring ‘them’ into this Miko? Didn’t they go through enough with you already?” You asked, with a slight dead serious look on your face with ur hands on the sides of your hips. 

“Alright alright I get it, you’re too eager to read today aren’t you?” She stated, grabbing your hand slightly, dragging you towards the building. While you silently complied, knowing not to respond. Upon opening the entrance many familiar writers were working. You spent around the next hour or so making everything published go smoothly and refining books. 

The rest of the few days of the week were spent on researching, which is what you’d do when you’re away from your books. You learned about a few of sumerus native plants and culture such as the Sumeru rose or Nilotpala Lotus. They had a giant school called the “Akademiya” But its Archon wasn’t anywhere to be seen. Confused by this as most regions have their archons anywhere within the region made you even more curious in the nation. 

“Alright I need to make a quick trip to the stores to get everything I need for the trip. I believe, if I get everything I need it should be smooth sailing from here hopefully. Maybe someone can give me directions when I arrive into liyue and enter through the chasm.” You wondered hoping someone was kind enough to help you out. Fingers tapped against the wood of the desk. With the other one as a stool for your head as confusion clouded your mind. 

Grabbing your diary from the shelf, dusting it off slightly as it hasn’t been touched for a few days, dust covering your fingers slightly making it grey. Ignoring the lingering dust you read through, looking for additional information you may have added when you first heard about sumeru around a few years past. 

Circling anything you found useful that was already written on a page before repeating the process. With the occasional Fox and inazuman related doodles, debating if you should bring it with you or keep it here as there’s magic lingering on it that only allows you and Miko to open could be considered as a weapon if they thought about it. Gently and neatly placing it into the bag you were going to bring, which luckily for you could float so you didn’t have to carry nor had to worry about anyone stealing as Electrograna shield protected it. Adding electro to those who dare to try. 

“Well I suppose I can bring this. As long as they allow it I should be safe.” You stated, pondering and walking around the room, tail flicked slightly. You stared back at the empty desk, turning your light back on for the meantime. Continuing to draw in your sketchbook in your plant pages. Might as well put information as soon as you can. You never know when they can come in handy. 

Maybe I should book this boat. It seems to be heading to liyues city and I slightly know my way around so I should be able to make it towards sumeru with no difficulties or injuries if I’m correct unless anything is trying to eliminate me for some reason.” You said as you sketched a similar looking boat to help you memorize what it would look like before you had your trip. Which it was currently Saturday only one day or two before you can go to sumeru. 

Focusing the weekend on the same things felt repetitive, but now you can experience it differently for one week, sure you enjoyed both of your jobs but they can become boring after a long period of time just like anything can. Maybe you may have brought less than you need, but I should add more just incase like a first aid kit. 

*Sunday, Timeskip* 

The day of starting your journey to sumeru has finally came, rising early to not miss the boat, friends waved you a goodbye and gave gifts before you left. Letting you know how much they cared about you, although it was only a week, time apart is still time apart. 

Upon boarding, you enjoyed it. No lightning struck anytime while waiting for everyone else to board. Waving goodbye to friends who still stayed behind. Staring into the sea, unknowingly you were on the Crux, the ship Kazuha one of your friends was apart of. Using Sakura petals to mimic the little waves in the ocean with it tapping the water. 

“Y/N? Were you one of the ones who wanted to be on our ship to Liyue? I’ll be honest I wasn’t expecting you, I do not mean anything negative with that statement, instead I’m glad. I love seeing positive familiar faces.” He said lending a hand out to shake with yours. Shaking his you stared back at him starting a conversation. 

“Oh yeah Kazuha! Same to you. I thought I booked a different one but I’m glad to see you. It’s been a while.” You stated, your hand still lingering within his, grabbing him closer to you. “Aren’t the little ripples soothing and awesome?” You stated as you scattered Sakura petals with him watching. You let go.

(We used the hand we shakes Kazuha with to scatter the petals btw-)

Only on Wattpad and Tumblr! If you see it on other sites beside those please report it. I don’t allow reposting on other sights beside Tumblr.

[travelingparties]

11 Grasping

Prev | Next

*(Solo TTRPG Journaling based on Wanderhome by @jdragsky)*

*text under readmore in case you can't read my tiny handwriting*

Today, the girl and I set out on our journey. I woke her up before sunrise, to make our escape before the city became full of life. Too many dangers.

She’s afraid, I can tell.

I found an old map among my things to take with us, it should prove useful. If I’m correct, it’ll take us a little less than a day to make it to the next town over, where we can stop for the night. I’ve also broken into my savings jar in order to hire a local peddler to act as a caravan, at least for now. It’s easier than traveling on foot. I fear, though, that I may need to find odd jobs to do in each city we stay in, in order to keep paying for his services.

His name is Tiberius and, while I do not consider myself a cruel sort, he is particularly ugly, inside and out. Most peddlers tend to be; obsessed with their wares and their coin and their numbers. He is a unique sort, though. One of those cats with no fur, who has to overcompensate by wearing pounds of bumble wool. The girl keeps asking him where his fur went.

I am urging her to stay silent, but it is difficult with Tiberius around. He refuses to cease his endless yapping. He asks about me, and her, and where her parents are, and why we hired him, and for how long… I have half a mind to steal his beetle myself and kick him out of the caravan, but I remain silently seething.

If there is one piece of good to come out of his inability to not speak, it’s that song he keeps humming. The girl seemed fascinated by it, tapping her fingers to the beat. When he noticed, he asked her if she would like to learn it and she said yes. It’s an old aria, he explained, from his ancestors, passed down through generations. I think that sounds like a load of hogwash, peddlers have a tendency to make nice lies, but the girl loved the story and the song. It’s the first time I’ve seen her smile since I met her.

I decided to start calling her Aria. Maybe, if she can smile along and believe in Tiberius, perhaps I should start trying to believe in her as well.

I always did want to name my daughter Aria, but the chance always passed me by.

We’ve arrived in town, now. And we’ll be staying here for two days before taking off again. I have the money for two nights in the inn, but I’ll need to find work in order to pay Tiberius for passage to the next town. Though, if I can find my own wagon, I might not mind leaving him behind.

It’s been a long time since I stepped foot into this town. I attended university here, once, when I was still young and hopeful. Perhaps it’s the one thing that saved me from Her wrath all those years ago. I wonder if any of my old mentors are still here. It would be nice to see at least one familiar face.

Finding work was difficult. The markets are always full of vendors, but none willing to hire for a day's work. Aria seems overwhelmed by the noise. I nearly had a heart attack when I realized she had run off somewhere. Tiberius found her by a pen of rather impressive bumbles for sale, petting them gently. I had to apologize to the owner. I don’t know how to punish a child that could kill me.

The local shrine was a bust as well. Aria found old food offerings, ones that had already gone bad, and couldn’t help herself. I snapped at her and now I feel guilty. Does she even know who she is? Do I?

I’ll buy her a nice meal tonight to apologize, but I worry our funds are dwindling. We’ve barely even started our journey and it could be over by tomorrow night. Tiberius finally took pity and offered me a job. A small delivery job to the university. The teachers there purchase a fresh order of textbooks every semester. He said he’d give us free passage to the next town if we delivered them for him tomorrow.

I’m not sure how long we’ll be able to keep this up, but I’m going to keep up my optimism and hope that we’ll make it through.

[blarefordaglare]

Day 7

sorry for not making day 6, but here’s some angst to cheer you up! (I worked on this 3 separate times so sorry if it’s a bit chunky!)

Murder >:) 

In which Wild generally thinks he killed his bros cuz I made him the therapist for too long and I wanna mix things up (sorry buddy, you can’t escape the sadness)

Also bonus: spot the Shakespeare line :).

Oh and sky is a mom friend and nobody can tell me otherwise. But that’s a spoiler for tomorrow, today it’s legend’s time to shine.

TW: Bl00d/gore, SH/SI (very little kinda) death, but not really death, unintentional attempt murder (is that a thing?) and basically heavy angst. You have been warned.

Wild was shaking. No, shaking was an understatement. The boy’s muscles tensed and relaxed over and over again. His palms were painted with a bloody, drying civil blood which made his civil hands unclean. 

He killed them. Each and every one of his brothers, his family. He watched in loop as the memory of inserting the dagger into each chest. The blood that slowly dripped down their bodies.

…

They were too trusting. He shouldn’t have joined. He should have never gone to the shrine and instead should have just been left on the grass to die. 

His nails, through short, dug into his face as chunks of flesh started to bury in between them. His face burned. His eyes burned. Everything burned. 

The ‘champion’ eyed the cooking pot. The butter sizzled in mockery. His inner clock was ticking, but the butter would just sizzle, sizzle, sizzle. 

It kept sizzling. 

Wild couldn’t do this. The ringing of their screams spun and stuck around like a constant melody in his head. It’s all my fault. 

I tried and I failed them all.

Tears slowly pooled in the corner of the ‘hero’s’ eyes. Failure was a constant bell ringing in his head. What kind of ‘hero’ kills his family? What kind of person kills his family?

“Hey champ, you doing alright over there?” A Legend-like voice called out. Stop pretending to be there. I killed you. Stop messing with my mind. 

The 100% hallucinated Legend stared at his brother for a hot second before stepping closer, “Hey, are you alright?” 

Get away from me, you’re not real. None of this is real. I’ll just close my eyes and wake back up somewhere that isn’t here. 

“Link, I’m talking to you?” This faux Legend doesn’t know when to be it seems. He’s not real he’s not real he’s not real he’s not-

“Lin-“

Wild’s head looked up, revealing red lines scratched down to his chin, “Shut up! You’re not real, you’re just a figment of my imagination. I already killed you once and I will not hesitate to kill you again. Get out of my head!” Legend froze. None of this makes any sense, why is he acting like this? The pink haired boy thought.

“What do you mean… killed?” Legend tried to step closer, only to be pushed away.

“Shut- Shut it!” The boy cried, “I already feel bad for it- don’t make me do it again.” 

Don’t make you do what again?

There was no winning this battle, at least not alone. Legend slowly backed away, “Um, just stay here. Keep doing what you’re doing.” And just like that Legend slowly escaped back to camp. 

“Guys we” 

the first two words for tomorrow’s fanfic :)

[harveybwabbit92]

[The twins and Briar (Aka: Ginger Emmet.) are trying to help Jonas find a girlfriend, so far it’s been a strenuous task there at the Cabaret E-S/o works at part-time at working out plans.]

Briar: I don’t know why you want my opinion on picking up girls...I’m gay.

Ingo, points to himself: Bisexual (points at Emmet.) Pansexual, now start brainstorming mister.

Briar, to Jonas: Ok...Jo, How do you act around women?

Jonas: At work...or off work?

{Briar looks at the twins they shrug.]

Briar: uh, the second one?

Jonas: Alright. *A-hem* Evening ma’am might I say, your skin is looking mighty soft...(Runs his fingers along Briar’s arm) 

Briar, smacks Jonas’s hand away weirded out: Ok, If I were a woman I’d have screamed and had my Hitmonchan punch you in stomach for that, don’t act like that!

Jonas: Well that’s the best I got alright? We weren’t all voted the sexiest man in Unova like (points at Ingo)Tall, dark and stormy over there! Most women don’t go for guys who are 5′6″!

E-S/o, whose their table’s entertainer for the night: 5′6″? (Jonas barely comes up to their shoulder.) ....You can’t be 5′6″, I’m 5′7″ and Ingo’s wife is 5′5″ there’s no way you’re an inch between us...

[Jonas looks at E-S/o like they’ve just said he will never celebrate another birthday again.]

Jonas, breaks down into ugly sobs: whuaaaauaaa! (Runs out of the cabaret.) 

(Awkward pause.)

E-S/o, calls the bartender over and tries to lighten the mood: Who wants a drink? Drink anyone?

Briar: I’ll just have a cheri coke, I have to drive my daughter to school tomorrow and my husband will kill me if I come home drunk.

Emmet, to E-S/o: I’ll have whatever you having Coffee-cat.~

E-S/o, to bartender: Two red-velvet Crown cocoas.

Ingo, looking the menu: I’ll have a Sour Pecha kid cocktail.

{The next day Ingo went to apologize to Jonas for what happened at the cabaret, only to backtrack when he found a creepy shrine dedicated to I-S/o in the depot agent‘s foot locker. Needless to say. Jonas had to go away for a while..]

[zennotixs]

Yes, I'm sure we'll make it work, dear. I will make anything work, as long as I can have you.

I wanted to share that ice cream with you very bad.. it was vanilla, which is your favorite, right? I've bern studying that shrine very carefully. I want to memorize everything you like, in the hopes that I'll be at the top of that list someday.

You're so hardworking, dear. I'm sure you'll do your best, but I'm sorry that it's too much to finish. If you need help, I'll always be here.

What are you up to now? Tumblr before bed?

Such a shame it was bad.. My favourite is vanilla, yes! Only the proper vanilla though - fake vanilla flavouring can die. (ꐦ¬_¬)

I’ll admit, as embarrassing as it is, you are making your way to the tops of that list rather quickly…

Tumblr before bed is what I’m doing at the moment, yes! I have an early start tomorrow to try and get most of my work done so I really should be sleeping. Ah,,, I really don’t want to though…

໒꒰ ྀི ′̥̥̥ ᵔ ‵̥̥̥ ꒱ྀིა

[evasivaardilosa]

Almost finished the seasonal tower today

I was going really well and made it really high but I had to stop playing so I lost my progress

It doesn’t even matter because it actually isn’t that hard??? I mean, it will be a pain to go through all of that again, it’s *tall*, but I actually managed to go as far as I went without even using my talisman, not even once! I even got a flawless victory, against the Johnny cosplayers

You might be wondering, what about my worst enemies, the survive puzzles? Well. I was theorizing about it, why did was the third so much harder than the others (that I had done so far)? I was getting hit in all of them, I only managed to avoid some projectiles in the second one, with the meteors, because it worked differently. The first and the third were very similar, and when I got hit by almost every projectile in the first I still made it to the end, while with the third I died after being hit once or twice. So I wondered, maybe this had to do with elements? So I equipped a relic that raised my magic resistance (since the projectiles in the third puzzle are magic) and. That was it. I survived the third. None of the other puzzles gave me trouble either

I didn’t think it would work, it was just my first guess. I was planning on trying to farm those syringes that give you permanent resistance. I didn’t even check what Smoke’s elemental stats are

Btw I was using those syringes as they came, because I thought they applied to everyone, but I took a look at the stats of someone, don’t remember who, and saw they had negative levels of resistance to some element. Which worried me, because I am sure I have taken syringes for all of them. Then the possibility that they only apply to the character I am using when I use them came to me. I haven’t checked but it makes sense, the base stats for each character must be different since they are different elements too. Since them I have started switching to Smoke before using them, as I was already planning on using him in the seasonal tower (I didn’t get many since thinking of this though). Idk if it helped but maybe

So, yeah. The solution was getting a relic for the element I seemed to be weak against. It reduces physical resistance but it didn’t make too much of a difference in the fights, but it changed everything in survive

Idk if I will try again tomorrow, I am very frustrated that I lost my progress today so I may need more time. But I think it’s just a matter of time now

I’m already thinking of the after. I managed to get everything (except Havik’s stuff, for now, but I have the coins for him too) from the seasonal shop, but I have no idea of where I am in the shrine and, maybe because I decided to level up everyone at the same time, I’m only at level 8~9 with everyone (except, again, Havik). I don’t think mastery is seasonal so I probably won’t miss anything if I don’t max everyone in around 30 days. The shrine doesn’t seem to be seasonal in the sense that some stuff won’t be there anymore next season, but I am less sure of this one. Anyway the seasonal tower seems to be the last actual seasonal thing I have left to do, then it’s just collecting regular coins for the shrine and xp for the mastery. Both which are things I will get as I do it all over again next season anyway

So, if I finish the tower, I’m done? I still won’t have *everything*, but the stuff I’ll be missing is stuff I can get at any point? This is… weird. I don’t think I ever got this feeling with any of these games, of being done

Oh, right. I will try to max my profile level as soon as possible, if I am quick I may get just enough dragon crystals for fire head Scorpion (I wonder if I will regret spending what seems to be the only free dragon crystals I will get in those, what if there is something cooler later? But I mean, it’s fire head Scorpion. I don’t think anything could beat them.)

[nella09archive]

Marriage. 85

Chapter 85: A little swim

“Are you ok?” What was that? Where did that all come from. I sat up, and told him I was find. “We should start getting started on those assignments. Did you bring your notes?” The whole time he was looking away. We started working on our assignments, and having light conversation about the topics. We were so into it that when we heard a knock at the door, it threw us off. I was invited to stay for dinner.

While we ate, I started to notice something funny. The few times I met Chichi she never seem this relax. Whenever Gohan talked about his dad, it always praises. But I watch everyone’s interactions to me it seems Goku just stays in the background, and let everyone shrine. Gohan, did your dad always shadow everyone? What you mean? I’ll tell you later.

…

Gohan, did your dad always shadow everyone? What did Videl mean by that? How does dad even do that? Once dinner finished, Videl got a call from her dad, and she had to leave. I decided to fly her home. On the flight I tried asking what she meant. “Even though he was there, he seem in the background. Like I witnessed how Erasa and Sharpner’s parents act, and it’s nowhere near that. Like their dad always making themselves known. Like being very loud. But same time they’ll be so quiet and out the way, that makes you question if they are around. Your dad is like a shadow. His presence is known, but not loud, but neither quiet. It’s actually nice.”

When she puts it that way, it does make sense. “Dad never like the attention. He rather see everyone shrine.” She nodded, and the rest of the flight was quiet. It was a peaceful, and it did give me a moment to admire her. The little moon light makes her seem so magical. Then I started feeling uneasy. Not in the bad way, just in the unsure way. How is the world did we find each other? I don’t deserve her. She’s so perfect. I was so deep in thought that I didn’t realize that she had stopped in front of me. I accidently bumped into her. Before I could apologize, she hugged me.

“Stop overthinking things.” That’s when I finally said sorry. “Don’t apologize.” She then ended the hug, and I felt cold without her embrace. “Want to carry me the rest of the way?” I cheered up at that, and said yes. Holding her like this felt nice. I took the long way to her place, and she didn’t seem to mind. When we finally made it to her place, before I set her down, she kissed my cheek. I was so stun that I didn’t even notice her leaving my embrace, and entering her home. On the flight home, I couldn’t stop touching my cheek. When I landed in front of my house, I saw that dad was waiting outside. He didn’t say anything as I walked past him inside.

Once inside my room, I couldn’t stop hugging my pillow. Today was a perfect day. I had Videl super close, and we shared a kissed. Also having her on top of me was a nice feeling, and even when I had her pinned under me. Just having her close was perfect. As I looked at the spot we were sitting, just moments ago, is when I spotted her bookbag. Oh no! I better return this to her. That’s when I saw her phone was left on my desk, where she left it after her dad called. I tried contacting her mentally, but no answer. Should I wait till tomorrow? It is late after all. I put her things on my desk, and looking at them till I fell asleep.

…

After dinner, as Gohan took Videl home, I started doing my after-dinner workout. While I started working on my push-ups Goten was on my back. Once Chichi had finished the dishes, she joined me. It felt like a nice moment. Goten on my back, while me and Chichi did push-ups. Makes me with Gohan was here to join the moment, and that’s when it was started hitting me. Before I know it, Gohan more on to his own life. I always knew one day that would happen, but it feels so soon. Maybe I should make personal time for just him and me, like I use to do. Of course, I want to also continue contenting with my youngest. But Gohan deserves special attention too.

Goten had fallen asleep, and I was waiting for Gohan to return. It sure took a long time, I wonder why. Then again, I shouldn’t worry. He probably just wanted to spend as much time with Videl. I can’t blame him. My little guy is slowly becoming more of a man every day. It made me happy, but also sad. When he finally landed, he had a big smile on his face. Uh? Did something happen? He completely ignored me as he walked inside, and then to his room. Well, at least he looks happy.

That’s when I finally join Chichi in our room. “Did Gohan finally come home?” I nodded, and headed to take a shower. When I came out, I was greeted with a hug. “What’s the matter? You look sad.”

“Our little is Gohan is almost a man, and I missed so much. Before I know it, he’ll be starting his own life. As much that brings me joy, it also makes me sad.” I didn’t even realize that we had made our way to the bed. But right now, I had my Chichi snuggled close to me. “You did such a good job without me. I’m sorry.”

She kissed my shoulder, then I looked at her. I landed a kiss on her lips. “Don’t apologize. You did a lot too, before you died. You did everything in your powered to make him happy, and have the option to be what he wants. You gave your all, and he knows it. He even told me how you believed in him, when everyone else didn’t. Even when he didn’t. So, don’t say it was only me that did all the work.” She kissed my lips. “Our little Gohan grew up to a man because of both of us.” Now she was poking my shoulder. “I hope you’re not planning to sleep naked.” I couldn’t help smile at that.

After breakfast, Gohan rushed out, saying how he had to give Videl her things. Then Goten asked if he, Chichi, and me could do something together. We ended up going for a swim in the nearby lake. Soon, Gohan and Videl had join us. This felt nice. Not only spending time with family, also spending time with my future daughter-in-law. She’s definitely a good fit for my Gohan. She’s nice, a little rough around the edges, and she makes my son happy. As long as Gohan is happy, I approve of her.

…

As I flew to Videl’s dad contact me, saying that everyone was going swimming. It made me want to ask Videl to join us. When I got to Videl’s she already had her window open, and looked angry for some reason. When I landed inside, she took her bag from me, and looked inside. She then got a smile when she pulled out a book. She then handed it to me. I just looked at it, confused on what to do. “It’s a gift. I was supposed to surprise you with it yesterday, but I got caught up with the assignment.” She was blushing and looking away, and I felt my cheeks burning as I said thank you, and took the book.

I didn’t know what to do. I tried saying thank you, but I kept stuttering. She was smiling at me, and said you’re welcome. For a good moment neither of us moved; that’s when I remembered about the swimming thing. “Would you like to join me, and my family, for a swim at the lake?” Her smile grew as she excitedly nodded her head. “I’ll wait for you just outside.” Just as I was about to exit the window, she grabbed my arm. I looked at her, and I was surprised by a kiss. I was so stun that it took me a moment to snap out of it.

As I waited for her, I read the book. It was really interesting. It was on Nuclear physics. I wonder why she choose this one. I was mentally working on an example question, when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I looked to the source, and it was Videl. She was wearing her usually long t-shirt, and training shorts. “I’m ready.” Somewhat I was slightly disappointed on what she was wearing, but she looked happy. As we flew back to my house, we were talking out the book. We went on a full debate on what actually causes radioactive decay to start, and what causes the chain reaction. I was very impressed that we had a full conversation. I actually felt challenge to prove my point, and she tried to counter me every turn.

That’s another reason Videl is so awesome. I could talk endless about a subject and she challenged my opinions. She’s almost like me. That’s when a funny thought pointed up. “Hey! What’s so funny?”

“I just realized something funny. Want to hear it?’ She said yeah. “My parents are pretty much the same. Bulma and Vegeta are also almost the same.” She said that I lost her. “I’ll use my parents as an example. They could be wrong so much, yet they easily forgive people. They both super nice to everyone. Oh, and my favorite.” We just landed in front of my house. “They hate seeing people hurt, and will do what they cane to help someone else. They don’t back down to anything.” With that, I quickly went inside, ran to my room, changed and place my new book on my desk. I really should get Videl something. Before I left the house, I grabbed two towels, and we were off.

When we got to the lake, Videl commented how my mom looked to be in incredible shape. Yeah, mom likes to keep up with her workout routine, even when dad died. That’s when Videl took off her large shirt, to reveal that she was sporting a speedo type swimsuit. “What?” She then looked angry for a moment. “I bet I could create a bigger cannonball than you!” With that she ran to the water.

“Oh no you don’t! I could make bigger ones!”

…

I don’t know how but somehow it became a water battle between Gohan and Videl. To top it off, mom and dad were laughing the whole time. Videl kept calling big brother a wimp because she is clearly better at this. What she doesn’t know Gohan is holding back. “Oh! Is that what you think?” Brother then disappeared under the water, and then so did Videl. When she finally showed back up, she was in the air, looking like she escaped something.

“You cheater! Where are you?” What she didn’t know was that big brother was behind her, the whole time. He then grabbed her and free fall back into the lake. They look like they were having so much fun. I looked to dad and mom and they were smiling.

…

“Don’t you dare think about it, mister.” I just looked at Chichi.

“Of course not.” Then I whispered in her ear. “That’s only when we’re alone.” She then punched my shoulder. Watching Gohan having fun with Videl made me happy. Soon Chichi said she should head back, to start lunch. “Don’t worry about it. We could have fish.” She then gave me a look, and said she rather cook at home. I took a quick look back at the boys. Goten was playing by himself, while the other two was still playing. I then pointed at Goten, and Chichi patted my tail stub. Enough said. I quietly snuck away with Chichi, and we went back home. The boys will be fine.

When we got home, we went straight to our room, and locked the door. I’m so glad she choose to wear the string bikini; she only wears when it’s just us. Last time we were at a beach and she was wearing that, I almost killed a guy for looking at her. “You make those swimming trunks look really good.” I just grin at her, and pulled the string to her top. Watching that cloth revealing her beautiful fresh, got me craving more. I was even feeling jealous of the water drops sliding down, between her breast. I then released the string of bottom piece.

I started to drop kisses along her neck, as I held onto her hips. I picked her up, and had her legs on my shoulders, as I licked at her core. As I enjoyed her, I walked us to the bed. When I got to the edge of the bed I sat down, and continued enjoying her. When she came all over my face, I was in complete bliss. My wife taste so good. As I continued devouring her, I used one hand to remove the trunks. The moment I was free, I set her down, and it was nice and snug. “I just love you so much.” With that we kissed as she moved on top of me. I was enjoying the slow build up with her, till I sense that the boys were making their way home. And I was just so close. As much as I would love to finished, I could wait. I told Chichi they were almost home, and that we’re finish this later. With one last kiss she got off, and I headed to take a cold shower.

When I came downstairs, the boys and Videl were watching tv. Chichi was in the kitchen, cooking. I sat at the table and just watched her. She was so busy cooking that she didn’t realize I was there. This is another thing I missed when I was dead. Admiring my little wife, while Gohan was busy reading a book. Everything having a sense of peace. Now the sense of peace feels real this time. On top of that I now how 2 boys, and my eldest has a girlfriend. I doubt I could do what I used to do to get money. What job would make Chichi happy, and I could also train? When the boys start school again me and Chichi could talk about that. Just then Goten sat down next to me. I smiled at him and ruffled his hair.

“Are we going back to the lake after lunch?”

“If you want to. Unless you want to do something else.” He looked back to Gohan and then up at me. “Is something the matter, Goten?”

“No. Today is fun.” He then looked at me super excited. “Can we all play ninja tag?”

“Ninja tag?”

“Yeah! Gohan made it up! He said he got the idea when he heard the story of you fighting a ninja.”

“You fought a ninja?” Me and Goten looked back, and Videl looked so surprised. She then was shaking Gohan asking what else he hasn’t told her of me. I started to laugh.

-----

Ch84

[gypsydear]

Been slack for a couple of days.

Wednesday night, I worked. Was my last shift with Chelsea before she transfers out. I think she’s a sweet girl, and I’ll miss her.

It started raining Wednesday from the Tropical Storm/Hurricane, but that was all that reached us. The next day was an online learning day for the girls, and I had the day off.

I’m glad they were home though, because Kyla’s bird Parker passed away that morning and I’m glad she was able to be with her and I’m glad I was off so I could help her bury her. She was so sad. Afterwards, I took her out for milkshakes and we stopped at the store to print pictures and get a few frames for the shrine she was wanting to make for Parker. It turned out beautiful.

Afterwards, Bella and I went and got lunch for Kierra, drove out to the woods to check on my Lion’s Mane mushroom, (it’s not growing yet!), and then I let her drive for a little bit on the way home.

I got into a bit of a funk last night. Jon is out in GA with family and friends. It just makes me miss him more, and it makes my little jealousy monster creep up. I become a little … annoyed? I just wish I could be with him in the way I’d like, I wish that I could experience these things with him. Me. Me, who deserves to be with him. But, I think he felt that early and tried to squash it before anything even happened. And he’s been messaging and sending audios and videos and pictures the whole time. So, it’s been normal. 💋

I haven’t told him, but my anniversary is on Monday. Although, I don’t miss my husband … I’m dreading the date. Not for myself so much, but if my STBX has made any kind of progress on his hatred, I’m worried this day will create a reset. I’m worried of getting messages or hatred or … anything. He’s so unpredictable and I’m also tired of having nightmares where he’s chasing me or trying to kill me.

I broke out of my funk and went to Walmart very late. I ended up buying a new lawn chair, luggage, tweezers, a gift for Jon and a sandwich 🤭 I forgot my check went in today so now I am planning a day trip for the girls and I tomorrow morning. 40 Acre rock isn’t far and I’ve been meaning to take them. Last time I was going to take them was the week my STBX decided I suddenly needed to lay him $600 for a car he didn’t even own and I was nervous about having the money. Jon saved my ass that week. In more ways than one. I’ll be eternally grateful for that. 🤚🏼

Work tonight, off tomorrow, then 11 days in a row. No tennis matches are on right now that I’m excited to watch so I’m lying in bed watching Bob’s Burgers. I might lay back down until it’s time for work.

12:34 pm 9/1/23

[razorblade180]

Inazuma Round Up

Yanfei:You know there’s a reason why I put “I know your busy” in my letter, don’t you?

Aether:Hehe, I figured I should at least try. You tend to overthink and I didn’t want to give you the wrong idea.

Yanfei:*red* I…can’t argue that.

The legal adviser sighed, helping her wary boyfriend into his bed. This all started with a surprise visit at her office. Aether, in a state of exhaustion, had drifted off waiting for her return. Yanfei found him face first and unconscious in the cake he had prepared.

Aether:I’m sorry again.

Yanfei:Stop apologizing. Cakes can get replaced. Your health is important. Sweet dreams Aether.

Aether:But I’ve missed so many birthdays recently! *yawns* First years are…special. I still gotta…see…zzzz

Yanfei looked at his work corner. There was a small mound of gifts by his desk and a sheet of paper. On closer inspection it was a lift of names and items to give them. As well as their birthday letters. The fact there was more than three would’ve stressed her out. In his defense however, these birthdays were incredibly close, and not just in dates. In fact…

Yanfei:Hmm, Kuki’s on the list. I wonder…

xxxxx

[Inazuma precinct]

Sara:Okay, what’s the urgent situation that simply couldn’t wait yet not important enough to tell me-

Itto:Yo!

Sara:…What did you do this time?

Itto:Heh hey hey! I haven’t done anything! You don’t see me in a cell do you? That’s right, I’m here on mission and that mission is you.

Sara:Itto, I don’t have time for another challenge.

Itto:Why would- okay I know why you’d that but that ain’t it. My beloved savior from Liyue came to me asking for help and I’m here to lend a hand!

Sara:Your help, or Shinobu’s?

Itto:Both actually! Anyways, happy belated birthday.

He reveals a box behind her desk and opens it to show off an Amos bow. As well as cute little cupcake in another box.

Sara:….

Itto:The traveler wants to let you know he hasn’t forgotten about you or the sparring match; which by the way, hurt me to learn about. I mean I’m right here! Anyways, the gang also helped organize papers. Under supervision of course. As for Kuki, my savior has made me swear an oath to “be legally responsible” for the rest of the day and tomorrow.

Sara:Wow, you must be so bored.

Itto:Pfft, this is nothing! But hey ummm, anything fun to do? I may or may not be allowed to do beetle fights with the kids.

Sara:Heh, I don’t know about fun but if there’s no work around here, then I guess lunch is in order. Care to join me? I’ll pay of course.

Itto:Well well wel-

Sara:*red* I will let you starve.

Itto:I would love lunch.

Sara:Good. Just give me a minute. *holds a box* I had my own mission.

xxxxxx

Heizou:The general wanted to see me?

He looks around to see nobody, but there is a box on his desk with a letter from the general.

“Happy belated birthday. Aether wishes you good health and would like to apologize for not giving you this in person. Our mutual friend has been rather busy lately. I myself took liberty or paying for this particular gift. He knows you just met but was certain something practical is well within reason. I doubt he’ll be happy if he got his mora back so i trust you’ll find a way to give it to him without noticing. Keep up the good work. Please clock in on time.”

Heizou opened up the box and pulled out a Solar Pearl, all ready to go.

Heizou:Hmm *smiles* how bout that?

xxxxxx

Meanwhile at the Grand Narukami Shrine, Miko is having a wonderful time.

Miko:I like to believe I’m in the know about a great many things, but this…what did I do to see this again.

Kuki: *in a shrine garb* Happy belated birthday, Lady Gugi. I better not see any photos. Aether sends his wishes.

Miko:Aaah, and here I thought he couldn’t be bothered to make time for little me.

Kuki:*squints* You knew he was tired.

Miko:Of course! Pretty sure he got sick around my birthday. Even tempered blades need maintenance. It’s cute to think he thought I’d be bent out of shape. I’m a patient woman. Looks like it paid off.

Kuki:This is not your gift. *pulls out a small box* this is.

The shrine maiden’s ears flicker. The size immediately told her it was a book. Miko unwrapped it and with it was a letter from Aether himself.

“I’m no publisher or anything but I hope this manages to peek your interest. My honest attempt at a light novel. Enjoy and Happy Birthday.”

Miko:Ooo, this is a treat. Has a weight to it. No wonder he’s tired. Writing a novel, adventuring, and fighting gods, any mortal would need break. If this is my gift, then why the outfit that’s causing you visible embarrassment?

Kuki:I don’t do half measures. His birthday entailed praying and giving an offering to the Sacred Sakura on the Shogun’s birthday. I know the proper ceremony so I should honor it. Though it’s a bit of a unique way to celebrate. I didn’t even know her birthday.

Miko:(That child is a bigger softy than Ei.) *smiles* Correct me if I’m wrong, but your birthday just passed. I suppose it’s only right to pay good deeds forward. I’ll take care of ceremony. You can change.

Kuki:Oh thank goodness! *bows* Pleasure doing business with you, but I did also have a request. There’s a gift I know you’ll have an easier time delivering.

xxxx

Ei:*meditating*

Miko:*kicks open door* Hello~

Ei:Did knocking go out of style in the last 500 years?

Miko:Don’t be like that. And after I brought Aether’s wonderful gift of desserts from Mondstadt and Liyue.

Ei opens one eye to see Miko holding two boxes filled with new and sugary sweets unknown to the Archon. Ei stopped floating, sitting on the floor and patted the mat for Miko to come over and join.

Miko:I’m worried one day you’ll meet your end to a poison tart at this rate.

Ei:As if I’d go that easily? I’m surprised. I assumed Aether forgot.

Miko:Don’t tell me you were pouting all this time? Aww, waiting for a friend sure is hard isn’t it?

Ei:I don’t need this, I get it. Also I was not pouting. *bites doughnut* It just would’ve been nice to talk.

Miko:He’s been busy, but I’ve been told he plans to visit when he can.

Ei:I’m no stranger to waiting.

Miko:He also gave offerings to Makoto.

Ei:…

Miko:Twins don’t forget about other twins so simply. Aether keeps you in his prayers for sure.

Ei:Is that right? *smiles* Hmmm, it’s decided then. Miko, I shall have the finest blacksmiths make him a blade and armor for any situation.

Miko:Please just write him a heartfelt thank you letter.

Ei:How are messages sent these days? Are we still using the Kitsune?

Miko:*tired stare*….

Ei:*red* What!? Why would I know!? It’s a valid question!

xxxxx

Kuki:That’s everybody to my knowledge. Everyone else has already celebrated with him or because of him somehow.

Yanfei:I can’t thank you enough! No way I could’ve gotten to everyone.

Kuki:It’s nothing Senpai. I wouldn’t even be celebrating a birthday this year without the both of you. Tell Aether to get some rest. I’ll see him when I see him.

Yanfei: *yawns* Wiiiilllll doooo.

Kuki:He’s not the only one tired. Maybe you should stay until tomorrow? It’ll be night when you get back.

Yanfei:I’d love to, but I have my own civil affairs to look after. I’ll be fine.

xxxxx

It was well into the night and Yanfei was tired! However, she was also fulfilled. Not a regret to be have. All that was left was set aside a few files for tomorrow. She opened her office door and flicked on the light, gasping at the sight of a single cupcake in a box and Aether’s resting his head on his arms at her desk. He looked up, greeting a tired smile with another.

Yanfei:You’ve been busy.

Aether:So have you. I woke up to get some water and noticed several boxes and a list gone. I’m no detective but I figured you were up to something. Thanks.

Yanfei:No thanks needed and don’t feel guilty either! I had fun seeing Inazuma and my wonderful junior.

Aether:Better than fishing?

Yanfei:Definitely.

She walked over to the single red and white cupcake. Yanfei opened the box then put a single birthday on it before lightning it with her finger. A single breath blew it up and she giggled as he clapped.

Aether:Hope your wish comes true.

Yanfei:Let’s find out. Work can wait. Carry me to bed, please?

Aether laughed. A easy wish, even when tired. He got up and lifted Yanfei into his arms like a bride. Yanfei rested her head on him. She even got a kiss on the forehead.

Yanfei:*red* Will I wake up to you next to me tomorrow?

Aether:Who am I to deny a wish and good sleep? Happy Birthday Yanfei, and sweet dreams.

Yanfei:Zzzzz

[silentprincess17]

Hey @zeldalinkohmy, thank you for sending in a request! Here is BOTW Post-Calamity Zelink in a snowstorm :) Featuring Sassy!Link and Flustered!Zelda because I wanted to try my hand at that. 

Kindly beta read by the wonderful @braidy-maidy​

When push comes to shove

“We… we probably should stop Princess-”

Her numbed feet crunched through another four steps of shin-high snow as the wind howled through her trapper hat, generating yet another shiver to run down her spine. But Zelda was on a mission, and she would not let the weather get in her way. “Nonsense! We are so close! Just another…” She hesitated, peering into the gloom, “another…”

“Precisely my point, Zelda. I saw you shiver. The wind’s changing. And we can’t tell where we’re going because the sky and the ground are starting to look like a uniform grey mass.”

She glared into said grey mass as he’d coined it, and realised he probably had a point. Each breath she took felt like she was inhaling ice. And she couldn’t deny the snowfall had slowly been increasing over the past four hours they had been travelling. Still, she couldn’t allow him to win that easily. “Are you trying to speak like me?”

“Whatever gave you that impression, sweetheart?”

She flipped backwards, turning to meet his likely gloating face, and as expected was met with sparkling cobalt eyes, paired with a raised eyebrow and an easy-going smirk. He had a delightfully cute accumulation of snow on his hair braided into two bands, and she ached to brush it off.

No! Focus, Zelda! She had more weapons in her arsenal! “We shall simply refer to the slate then!”

He shook his head.

“Why are you- you just wait! I’ll show-”

And… the slate wasn’t turning on. Or well it was, but it was simply a static blur on the screen. A furious blush stormed across her cheeks, spreading all the way down to her legs, even warming her numbed feet. It wasn’t fair! This Link had no qualms about teasing her. Hell, he had no qualms about anything at all, it seemed. When they first entered Impa’s house after defeating the Calamity, as soon as Impa mentioned “Retake the throne”, and Link had seen the smile fall off her face, he’d whisked her into his arms, and shamelessly teleported out.

Once they were outside the Myahm Agana Shrine, he declared she needed to see the world first, and if she wanted to, he needed help in finding the remaining 20 shrines. She’d taken him up on his offer, and 6 months later, they were in the bowels of Hebra, with the final shrine left. They were so close! So close! Why couldn’t the weather cooperate!

“Ah my dear Zelda. Come. I know we haven’t found the shrine like you wanted to, but we can always try again tomorrow. You can’t win against the weather, you know.”

What, could he read minds now? It was her turn to tease him! She had material here! “Yeah? So why, pray tell, did you consistently decide to defy rainfall to climb mountains? And then had to remain immobile for hours?”

He rubbed his nose, “We don’t talk about that.”

“Mhm. Or you know, when you decided to go straight into a sandstorm despite knowing it was coming because you had a new shield you wanted to try to seal-surf with?”

“Okay fine! We all get the point here!”

“Or-”

He clamped his arm around her waist, and pulled her close, his icy red nose jutting at her cheek, his frigid lips just ghosting her chin, and- what was she saying again? She felt his lip twinge against her in his trademark smile and she shook her head. She was putty in his hands and he knew it. “Just this way, Princess.”

Although, she couldn’t deny it, when they finally reached the cabin and worked together to stoke the fire into a roaring flame, when she aided him in organising their ingredients to make cold-resistant spicy meat and seafood fry, when he dragged a huge fluffy blanket from the cupboard and snuggled her into his arms so they could sit wrapped up tight with a plate fisted between the two of them… and when he set said plate aside and decided to kiss the wildberry flavoured fruit cake crumbs off her face, she decided he was right.

Research could always wait until the storm had passed.

[minaramen]

New Year’s special story -  Werewolf Idols ~ LIVE or HEAVEN ~ Part 12: Who’s the wolf? [Day 5]

Part 1 | Part  2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 |  Part 11  | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15

Game master: Dawn has come

Touma: Waaah! I’m alive!

Tenn: Good, he’s not here!

Haruka: Mh?

Riku: I see…! Okay,I understood the result of my forecasting! Can I say it?

Ryunosuke: Where’s Gaku!?

Game master: During tonight’s werewolf attack, one person was killed

Yamato: Aah…Yaotome..!

Mitsuki: Yaotome…!

Iori: The village hunter…

Haruka: Wait, where’s Minami!?

Game master: Also, somebody suddenly disappeared

Touma: Somebody…disappeared? They mean…not by biting?

Riku: Ah…maybe it’s the fox spirit!

Tenn: I forecasted Natsume san, and he was the fox spirit

Haruka: Minami was the fox!?

Iori: You did it, Kujo san…!

Yamato: I just missed the timing! I also forecasted Natsume, and he was the fox

Ryunosuke: What’s going on, all at once!? Gaku was bitten and Minami kun disappeared…!

Ryunosuke: What happened tonight?!

*Cut to a dark place*

Gaku: Ah…as expected, I died

Minami: Yaotome san

Gaku: Wah-! Are you…Natsume?

Minami: Yes. I’m happy to be here with you

Gaku: Are you also dead? But, why…?

Minami: I’m the fox spirit

Gaku: I see….

Minami: Kon kon

Gaku: The hunter and the fox biting the dust together. Kind of a funny story

Minami:  Just like a comical pair, I suppose. I wouldn’t mind making a pilgrimage to the Ise Grand Shrine* with you

Gaku: Too bad I have to work tomorrow

Minami: Oh dear, what a shame. Shall we go through this place with our arms linked, at least?

Gaku: Why?

Minami: Listen carefully. Don’t you have the strong presentiment that something is waiting for us?

Gaku: …The presentiment that something is waiting for us…

Minami: I will escort you

Gaku: I can hear something, now…a sound that seems to come from something waiting for us…

*Cut to the TV studio*

Audience: Kyaaaaaahh…!

Audience: Gaku kun!!

Audience: Minami kun!!

Gaku:..........

Minami: You see? I told you

Tamaki: You even came with your arms linked!

Momo: You must really get along!!

Sogo: Good job, guys

Torao: Hello

Minami: Midou san. Did you look at everybody from here?

Yuki: Yes. You were such a cool hunter, Gaku kun

Gaku: Thanks. But I could do the job only once

Nagi: Natsume shi, you’ve been sent off without causing any turbolences

Minami: I would have preferred to shake things up a little bit more. Who’s the real divinator?

Tamaki: Yama san

Gaku: What!? So, is Tenn a wolf?

Momo: Exactly! He’s one of my besties!

Gaku: And I even escorted him…

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah…!

Audience: Ahahah!

Momo: Both laughs and screams increased, apparently

Yuki: Do some hunter and fox fanservice, the two of you

Gaku: What are you saying? Did you do such things?

Tamaki: We did, we did!

Gaku: I see…

Minami: Fine then, I’ll start

Audience: Kyaaaaaah…!

Minami: I wish you a happy new year. I’ll keep on bewitching you thanks to my beautiful lies

Minami: Please, forgive me for every time I make a fool out of you. Kon kon

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaah…!

Tamaki: What a cute fox pose!!

*Minami reaches Torao*

Minami:.....fufu….

Torao: What’s wrong with you, trotting at me like that? You feel embarassed?

Minami: Just a bit. Please, high five with me

Torao: Ahah! That’s pretty unusual!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaah…!

*Clap*

Nagi: This fox is so cute!

Sogo: Yes! Very cute!

Momo: Next! Your turn, hunter Yaotome Gaku!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaah..!

Gaku: Happy new year!

Gaku: If I happen to see somebody menacing your dreams…

Gaku: I will definitely protect you

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaaah….!

Gaku: BANG!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaah…!

Momo: How cool…! Gaku, you’re handsome…!

Yuki: That was good. You get the maximum score both as the hunter and a member of Trigger

Gaku: Eheh

Tamaki: Gakkun, Gakkun! Do the same for Sou chan!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah…!

Sogo: It’s okay! I’m humbled! I have to decline…!!

Torao: It’s the first time I see somebody refusing fanservice

Gaku: Osaka, look at me

Sogo:..........

Gaku: You’re a rival of mine. I won’t do fanservice, but I'll shake your hand

Sogo: Y-yes….

Gaku: Okay

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaah

Gaku: Let’s get along this year too

Sogo: Yes…let’s do it

Audience: Kyaaaaaah

Audience: Minami kun, do the fox….!!

Minami: Kon kon

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaaah

*Cut to the game*

Touma: They both left, then…

Mitsuki: Yaotome has probably been bitten by the wolves, while Natsume was deathly casted by the divinator

Touma: But who did the forecasting?

Tenn: It was me. I forecasted Natsume san

Yamato: He’s deceiving you. I was the one who forecasted Natsume

Mitsuki: You too, old man?

Yamato: I was the one who offed him, thanks to my forecasting

Tenn: It was me. You need to trust me

Mitsuki: Uhm….

Iori: This is the only opinion the two of them can express, though

Iori: The fox spirit can only be cursed to death by the real divinator

Iori: The other one must be an impostor. That’s why they both said they forecasted Natsume san

Riku: Kujo san was the first one to announce the forecast…

Yamato: Well, I didn’t adjust my forecast to match Kujo’s

Yamato: We used to announce the result all together, if I remember correctly. I was just waiting for that moment to come

Iori: You’re right. Why did you jump the gun, Kujo san?

Tenn: I spent the whole night wondering who the fox was among Nikaido san and Natsume san

Tenn: When I found out that I guessed it right, I got a little overenthusiastic. I apologize for the mess I’ve made

Touma:...they both seem trustworthy

Ryunosuke:....ah….

Tenn: What?

Ryunosuke: No…it’s nothing

Tenn:..........

Haruka: Minami….how could he be the fox and still tell us to praise him today?

Haruka: I can’t believe Minami was the fox….is there not the possibility that he was actually the real divinator?

Iori: I highly doubt that. The game master told us that somebody suddenly disappeared

Haruka: Uhm, maybe he was bitten…eeh,  really..?

Ryunosuke: Are you alright?

Haruka: I’m getting confused

Ryunosuke: I understand your feelings. Everybody is so good at acting, it’s difficult to understand who to trust

Haruka:...yes….but then…

Ryunosuke: Uh?

Haruka: I think you could be a wolf as well, telling such things

Ryunosuke: No, I’m a villager. It’s not like I can prove it to you. Anyway, for that matter, you could also be…

Ryunosuke: No, I feel like you’re not a wolf, Haruka kun. It’s just my intuition speaking, though

Haruka: Well, in fact I’m not a wolf! I’m definitely not a wolf!

Iori: We should be thinking about which divinator to execute today

Iori: But first, Nanase san. What response did you get as a medium?

Riku: Ah….Tamaki was a wolf

Touma: Good, then! We did great, kicking out one wolf and the fox!

Riku: Yes, but the hunter is also gone. It means that I will be eaten tonight

Mitsuki: That’s also true… speaking of which, wouldn’t it be a waste to lose a fortune teller?

Iori: What do you mean?

Mitsuki: We figured out who’s the wolf among the divinators

Mitsuki: But there’s another one hiding among me, Iori, Tsunashi san, Touma and Isumi

Mitsuki: Maybe it’s a good idea to start looking there, first

Ryunosuke: I see…I don’t think I’d be as good as a fortune teller, when it comes to observing

Touma: Me neither, honestly

Haruka: Me neither… but maybe we could just listen to everybody’s opinion

Haruka: Who’s the most suspicious, except for the divinators?

Mitsuki: If I must say,  probably Tsunashi san…

Ryunosuke: What!? But, why?!

Mitsuki: Well, a wolf must be strong…what do you think, Inumaru?

Touma: I think….it may be the little Izumi

Iori: Why?

Touma: Well, because despite being a sharp guy you’re still among us. The same wolves who bit Rokuya and Tora should have bitten you as well, am I right?

Touma: However, for some reason, you’re alive

Mitsuki: Maybe they were just too busy biting off Yaotome and Riku

Touma: Ah, yeah, maybe!  What do you think, Haru?

Haruka: I have no clue, if you ask me! If I have to pick one up, I’d say Touma…

Touma: Me!?!

Haruka: I’m not saying you look like a liar!

Haruka: It’s just that everybody who was forecasted by Nikaido got bitten so far. You’re the only exception

Haruka: That’s why I think you may be a wolf

Iori:...that sounds very unlikely to me

Touma: Yeah, I’m not a wolf!

Yamato: It can’t be true. Inumaru is a villager, I forecasted him

Haruka: Okay, that’s why you both are probably wolves…

Mitsuki: No, the old man doesn't look like…a wolf…

Mitsuki: However, I’m not so confident anymore…

Yamato: C’mon, be confident, Mitsu!

Ryunosuke: Yamato kun and Touma kun are wolves…? What if it’s Tenn? Who do you think his partner could be?

Iori: Good question…did you feel like he was protecting someone?

Iori: Kujo san forecasted Yaotome san, Nanase san and Tsunashi san, and he said they were villagers

Iori: If he’s a wolf, then the only partner he could be protecting among them is you, Tsunashi san

Ryunosuke: You’re right…and I’m not a wolf. Then, Yamato kun is…?

Yamato: Wait. I thought we were supposed to be looking for wolves first. Why is each of your guess based on fortune tellers?

Mitsuki: Well, that’s true…

Iori: It’s easier to look for somebody among two people than among five

Iori: If they eat Nanase san, we won’t be able to know the truth anymore

Iori: We need to execute you and Kujo san in order

Mitsuki: Yes… I mean, we’re wasting an useful ability, but it can’t be helped

Mitsuki: Also Nagi told us to execute the divinators

Yamato: Who do you want to start from, then?

Tenn: Whoever you choose, it’s fine with me. But if you execute me today, be sure to do the same with Nikaido san tomorrow

Tenn: Because he’s a wolf

Yamato: You’re the wolf, Kujo

Ryunosuke:...it’s getting incandescent…

Touma:....dunno….

Riku: Wait, both of you!  Don’t let the atmosphere get too scary! Iori or Haruka could end up crying!

Iori: I won’t cry at all!

Haruka: I definitely won’t cry!!

Riku: Now, try to convince me that you’re not cheating on me

Riku: I’ll pretend to be the girl

Haruka: Cheating?!

Yamato: Riku, please! We don’t have time for such nonsense…!

Tenn: Hello, Ricchan. I’m home

Yamato: You’re pretty fast at getting down to business, Kujo…

Tenn: Why did you get so sulky? Did I do something wrong?

Tenn: I want to apologize properly if I did something that made you feel so sad. Could you tell me, please?

Riku: How can you speak like that…? I know you’re cheating on me. I saw you hand in hand with another girl today!

Tenn: This can’t be true. I’ve been in the studio the whole day

Riku: Really?

Tenn: Yes. The only girl I want to be hand in hand with is you, Ricchan

Tenn: Trust me

Riku:...........

Riku: I think you’re the real divinator!

Touma: Wait, really!? We’re going to choose by such a playacting!?

Yamato: Wait, wait! This old man wants to prove his honesty as well! Tell me how!

Riku: Oh, right! I was about to make too much of a snap decision! Okay then, Yamato san…uhm…

Riku: You’ll be Tsunashi san’s boyfriend!

Ryunosuke: What?!

Yamato: Ryuko chan, I’m home!

Ryunosuke: You got into the role pretty quickly! Okay…uhm…w-welcome…

Yamato: Since I was thinking about making out with you, Ryuko chan, I bought a Bingo card

Mitsuki:....what a weird thing to buy

Iori: How can a Bingo card possibly help you make out?

Ryunosuke: Ah, I’m happy! Thank you for always buying me Bingo cards!

Touma: It’s surprisingly comical

Haruka: I wonder why he “always” buys her Bingo cards, by the way…

Ryunosuke: However, even if you try to make me feel better with this present, I’ve still caught you…

Yamato: What do you mean, you’ve caught me…?

Ryunosuke: You’re cheating on me, right? I know you send love messages to other girls

Yamato: Don’t be stupid, Ryuko. I’ve always done that

Yamato: But you’re the one and only one I tell in person. I love you, Ryuko…

Ryunosuke:.........

Ryunosuke: And that’s not cheating, according to you?

*Bin bin*

Yamato: Whooo! Wait!

Mitsuki: You’re a cheater, Yamato san!!

Yamato: Are you serious?!  The time’s over?!

Iori: Yes, thanks to Nanase san and his unnecessary playact…

Riku: Ah…! I’ll get killed tonight, then! Do your best, villagers!

Game master: Voting results

Yamato: You must be joking…!

Game master: The executed player is Nikaido Yamato

Game master: It’s night time

Game master: The executed player is escorted to the execution place

Game master: Wolves, please choose the one you want to kill

Game master: Divinator, please choose the one you want to divine. Hunter, please choose the one you want to protect

 Game master:  All the others, please hold your breath and try to endure until this terrible night is over

End of part 12

TL Notes

*Pilgrimages to Ise Grand Shrine are seen as a purification process and aid in receiving a good afterlife

[wri0thesley]

*bursts through the door* Hello Nat, I am here to request some chubby/fat reader smut with Diavolo. Perhaps a more possessive and less reclusive Diavolo who spots reader and has to have them?? Headcanons or a scenario are fine, of course. Thanks!

[opening hours] - diavolo x chubby!reader (4k)

The rules for one special customer at your bakery get you into a situation that you’re not all that mad about, actually.

[NSFW, minors do not interact. Diavolo x Reader. AFAB reader, explicitly fat/chubby. No pronouns used, but Diavolo refers to reader with feminine pet names. Possessive/jealous sex. Power imbalance (he IS the Don of Passione). Brief references to reader’s lack of self-confidence/body-shaming in their past.]

The trouble had started with the bakery's unnofficial opening hours.

You had been told when you started working here that you opened ten minutes earlier than you were supposed to, but only for one specific customer. When you had expressed frustration at not knowing who this customer was and how to identify them, the owner and her son had looked at one another and then back at you.

"You'll know if you meet him," she'd said, eventually - and that was all.

Oh, you're paid for those extra ten minutes, of course - you're paid very well, honestly, for a job that you like working and that pays in all of the leftover sweet treats you'd like at the end of the day. The owner - Francesca - is polite and careful and clucks about you like a mother hen, which is nice considering how far away you feel from home. But after six months of working at the bakery and not coming across this mysterious customer once, you resign yourself to the fate that you're never going to see him.

Things, though, can change in an instant. Tiny little occurrences that feel like nothing at the time can shape your life more than you ever realise. For you, that occurrence had been the morning that the pink-haired man in a crisply pressed suit had walked into the bakery at seven fifty two in the moring and stood by the counter.

At first, he had not spoken. He had simply looked at you, bright green stare coloured with something that made your skin feel hot and prickly. He had rested his fingertips on the counter, tapping black lacquered nails against the glass.

You are used to being looked at. You have been looked at your whole life; generally not favourably. Hell, you have even been looked at behind the counter before, as people snickered behind their hands to their companions that 'no wonder this place sells out of the good stuff so fast, with someone like that working here--'. Your cheeks heat up under the man's intense stare, wondering if he's about to say something to you--

And then, he does say something.

"You're new."

His voice is low and smooth, like fine wine being poured in the dark, and against your will your heart begins to beat a little quicker. You nod. His painted lips curve in a smile that's all danger and elegance.

(It's normal, you tell yourself, to be very aware when someone near you is handsome. It's normal to have your breath taken away, to find yourself shaking a little, to feel warm and strange - and it's even more normal, you think, when you consider that something about this man makes him special.)

"You won't know my usual, then." He says, and you shake your head wordlessly, offering him an apologetic look that seems to amuse him just as much as your newness.

He directs you (cappuccino, cornetto) to his regular, his eyes not leaving you for a moment. It's strange, to be so watched - most customers can't wait to get out of the bakery with their gains tucked neatly under their arms. Very few of them look at you beyond a cursory bark of their order and a nod as they leave. This man, though . . . his eyes do not leave you for a moment.

You bag up the cornetto in one of the pale paper bags and are about to punch the numbers into your cash register, when the man leans over the counter and grabs ahold of your wrist, his grip strong and firm.

Your breath catches at the power with which he restrains you. His suit sleeve rolls up to reveal an intricate tattoo of black inked designs that starts at his wrist and (from what you can see) continues further and further up.

"That won't be necessary, carina." He says, his voice smooth. Your own voice wobbles a little as you reply;

"B-but--"

He raises his eyebrows, clearly amused by whatever it is you're doing. You don't think it's that amusing that you're attempting to get him to pay for what he's bought, but alright then.

"You're cute," he tells you, without flinching. Those lips remain turned up at the corners in a smirk that makes you feel as though you don't know what the hell you're doing. The compliment wraps around you, heated and nervous - men, in your experience, do not often say such things to people who look like you - and certainly not so quickly after meeting you. "Ask Francesca why I don't pay, if you must. Have a good day - I'll see you tomorrow."

You don't realise you've been holding your breath until the door has closed behind him.

You also don't realise how much the promise of seeing him again sounds like a threat.

--------

You find out, incidentally, why he doesn't pay - and the information makes your cheeks flame at how brazen you must have seemed, trying to insist he was going to pay. You tell Francesca exactly what happened and her face creases in concern. At first, you think she's going to tell you off - you wouldn't blame her for firing you, after finding out that you disrespected the Don of Passione like that.

It turns out what she's worried about is the staffing. You are not scheduled to do a morning shift tomorrow. She expresses fear, too, that he spoke to you and smiled at you and stared at you so intently.

"Normally he doesn't look at any of us," she frets. "That's not the kind of man you want the attention of, you know?"

You laugh off her concerns.

"It's probably nothing like that anyway," you tell her. "He was just amused I didn't realise who he was, I guess."

Her worried face does not ease.

--------

(He's not pleased to not see you behind the counter the next morning, Francesca relates to you. He asks after you. He asks your name. He asks when you're next working. And though you know that it's dangerous territory, you cannot help but be flattered).

Diavolo - that's his name, one he gives you over a shared cornetto the fifth time he comes in for his regular order, and it's a name you're told not to repeat to anyone with a gaze so intense that you feel like a butterfly pinned to glass. 

Diavolo looks at you hungrily, like he wants to devour you whole. As if you are an item on the menu that he can purchase at his leisure, and he is merely waiting for the right moment.

You're light-headed and flattered and warm around him, a pulsating edge of danger beating below the surface that you ignore for the sake of enjoying someone being interested in you. Sometimes, the fear grips you as it has so many times before that he's flirting with you as a joke, or you're reading too much into things - and then, he leans across the counter to wipe cream from the corner of your mouth with a thumb or leans in so close to you that you can see the slightest sprinkling of freckles across his cheeks and your breath catches and all of your thoughts go entirely out of the window.

He drops compliments easily to you. He mentions the colour of your eyes, the fullness of your mouth, the way your hair falls - once, he mentions how you fill out the button-up shirt you're wearing with the top three buttons undone with approval clear in his voice and gaze and you go all over hot and nervous and unsure, something that seems to amuse and please him no end.

(It’s hot, in Naples. You were not intending to gather his interest. Still, the next morning you have four buttons undone.)

You think that it's harmess flirting. After all - Diavolo is the Don of Passione. You're nothing compared to him; he is a shrine. A statue in a beautiful garden, with worshipers at his feet. You are a fat bumblebee buzzing past the statue - sated, and comfortable, but inconsequential. You assume you're an amusement to him - just a little distraction in a morning, that's all.

You don't realise how wrong you are until you're on a closing shift one evening with Francesca's son. His name is Stefano, and he's perfectly nice to you, if a touch over-eager - desperate to please. He's a little younger than you, with an earnest face and a rushed way of speaking that means you sometimes have to ask him to calm down. Francesca hints, occasionally, that he has a crush on you - and you laugh it off, as you so often do when anyone expresses any kind of interest in you.

Only, tonight he is more nervous than usual. He messes up people's orders. He spills coffee and espresso and cappuccino left right and centre - his hands shake and he fumbles over the names of regular customers who he's known half of his life.

While you're closing up, you ask him, carefully and delicately, if something is wrong. You don't know what you're expecting, as you and he walk to the front door of the bakery together - but Stefano pauses, and touches your arm.

"I've just been balling up my courage, I guess," he says, twisting his lip to one side.

"For what?" You ask, trying to sound interested though one of your hands is digging deep in your coat pocket to try and find your keys. You swear that you left them there this morning. Your hand moves to your bag. Stefano takes a deep breath.

All at once, his words come out in a jumbled rush.

"To-ask-you-on-a-date."

You blink at him.

"Um," you say, succintly. "To ask . . . me?"

He nods emphatically, moving closer to you. He's about the same height as you, so your noses come too close for comfort - the hand in your bag stays there, limply, as you try and process what he's saying.

"You don't have to answer right now," he says, his voice still pitching erratically. "But yeah, I think you're pretty and nice and I'd just-- I'd really like to take you on a date or something, i-if you think you'd like that? You don't have to! You don't have to answer right now, I just--"

He's babbling, and you're trying to keep the thread of the conversation, your mind working in overdrive - and then he moves his head forward and kisses you. It's a nervous little peck that lasts only a moment, before he steps back with his cheeks flushed red and pulls his coat closer to him.

"Okay, yeah, I'll see you tomorrow--" He says, and then he's stepping out of the door and letting it click shut behind him without even waiting to see how you respond to the kiss.

You're not sure of how to respond, honestly. You stand there, the breath knocked out of you, for a few moments. His lips had been dry and quick on your own, and you hadn't felt . . . to be honest, you hadn't felt anything.

No point dwelling on it. Your fingers scramble around the bottom of your bag for your keys, as you try and ignore that your heart isn't thumping the way that it does when Diavolo is near you. Stefano is a nice boy. He's your boss' son. He isn't, as far as you're aware, engaged in any shady business like you know Diavolo must be--

For God's sake. Your keys are not there. You resign yourself to making your way back to your apartment and trying to beg someone else in the building to let you in so that you can get the key you leave under the plant pot by your front door just in case of things like this as you step outside of the door, locking up the bakery behind you (thank God that key has remained where you thought it was)--

Only to step straight into the warm, solid chest of a man.

Fear seeps through all of your bones as you nervously look up to see what kind of person you have angered. You are already dredging up a thousand apologies when your eyes meet Diavolo's keen, green ones.

He doesn't look how he usually does when he sees you. Ordinarily, he's amused and elegant and pleased in a quiet, self-assured sort of way. Tonight, though . . . tonight, Diavolo's eyes burn hot and bright and angry. There's a ferocity in his face and the set of his mouth that makes you feel like he's captured your ability to breathe in a bottle only he has access to.

He speaks.

"Who does that boy think he is?" He asks you, voice low and cool like black velvet - and then, he leans down and kisses you hungrily, and this time you feel a hundred things.

------

You go with him, heady and intoxicated by the way his mouth had felt upon yours and the way his hand had gone around your waist, squeezing the generous curve of your hip as if he wanted to grip you by them and pin you against a wall right there and then, in the centre of the city. You think, judging by the way he had looked at you when the kiss had broken, he would have - if he had not had an image of mystery to maintain.

Instead, he says (his normally velvet voice hoarse);

"Come home with me."

It is not a question. It's a demand - and luckily for him, you are in no mood to decline. You sit beside him in the back of a car (a screen between you two and the driver), and Diavolo's hands are all over you even there.

"I can barely wait," he murmurs, hungrily, into the curve of your shoulder and neck as he lathes kisses over your throat, marking you with his dark lipstick. "Oh, bella, if you even knew how much I've wanted you--"

It's hard not to be dazzled by the knowledge that he wants you. A man like Diavolo - in his sharp suits and ties, surrounded by servile underlings, rings on his fingers that cost more than you make in a year - wants someone like you. It's hard not to be carried away by how hungrily he mouths at you and how beautiful you feel under that piercing green gaze, when you have not often felt beautiful in your life. Your body in the past has been a source of shame and sadness - under Diavolo's grazing palms and questing fingertips, though, you feel transformed.

You tumble out of the car and are pulled along with impatient hands by Diavolo, not letting you take any moments to enjoy how beautiful his home is. Sure, the pillars are marble and flowers drape from the windows in hues of crimson and purple, but there is a different purpose for the two of you now - you are barely aware of anything around you as you're tugged into the first bedroom Diavolo finds.

You're breathless again as you're tossed on the bed underneath him. Things are moving so quickly - but you have no complaints, as Diavolo immediately has you pinned beneath him, his muscular weight self-assured as he leans over your prone form to beg from you another hungry kiss. His teeth tug at your bottom lip, demanding entrance instead of asking; and you yield to him. His hands grasp your hips, holding you with fervent frustrations bubbling under the surface.

He breaks the kiss to say, every syllable of his words dripping with jealousy.

"You're mine. You know that, don't you?"

You hadn't known it before tonight - but with the way his hands are already going to your uniform, pulling open the buttons with little care (you hear one of them skitter onto the floor), it's no longer a question.

"I didn't," you breathe, and he snorts. His fingertips are cool as he slides them up the curved softness of your stomach, pausing just beneath your breast.

"You will," he vows. "After tonight, carina, you'll realise there's nobody else in the entire world for you but me."

Your body shivers under the promise of his words. You shiver harder as he slides your work shirt off of your shoulders, tugging it away, dropping it on the floor along with the button that you assume you will never see again. As his hands slide into the small of your back, cool where you are boiling warm - and you hear the snap of your bra being undone and suddenly you are bare before him in the room.

He looks down on you in satisfaction.

"There," he coos, his hands covering your breasts (they are not quite large enough to cover the round flesh, but they fill out his grip in a way that seems to please him). "You look much better without the ugly uniform. Something so lovely deserves beautiful things only to adorn them--"

A gasp is bitten back as his thumbs rub your nipples, coaxing the nubs to hardened points. You press your thighs together beneath him, your cheeks heating up at how your body responds to him in gooseflesh and slick.

"You should never have to wear clothes," Diavolo muses, as he gathers himself onto his knees and your work pants are the next to go. "It's a waste, to not have your body where I can see it."

Diavolo lavishes hungry, possessive attention on all of the parts of you that you have never gotten along with. He does it with his hands, massaging and petting and gripping - and then, he leans down and he uses his mouth and you're squirming beneath him, the heat gathering with the wetness between your thighs almost unbearable.

The curves of your hips are mapped out - the soft flesh of your thighs. The pillows of your upper arms, the roundness of your stomach, all of the places you have thought of as fleshy and unattractive seem like a siren's call to Diavolo. He kisses you, leaving marks of his lipstick everywhere - and occasionally, he pulls back and whispers things against your skin that have you hot and needy.

"Mine," he murmurs, as he sucks a blue-purple lovebite into your collarbone.

"Il mio tesoro," he whispers, as he kisses you on the mouth hard and his hands go to strip off his own suit jacket.

"You belong to me," he says, and suddenly he is shirtless and you are staring at the sculpted muscle of his chest and the intricate tattoos on his arms. You have no complaints - you look up at him above you, a big cat playing with his prey, and all you can do is swallow and nod.

"Good," he breathes, "you're going to be so good for me, hmm?" His hands alight on your thighs and you spread them without him asking, displaying the damp patch on your silken underwear and making his eyes darken and his nostrils flare. "For me, amore?"

You avert your gaze and do not answer - but that's enough of an assent for Diavolo. He laughs as his fingers curl into the garment, tugging them down your thighs (you shiver at the sensation of slick fabric clinging, just for a moment, against your sodden folds).

"I'm a lucky man," he says to you. "I've always been lucky, you know . . . but you may very well be my luckiest find."

Your thighs are urged further apart, until Diavolo can settle between them, his weight heavy and self-assured. What is between your thighs, too, is subject to Diavolo's piercing gaze - but he is not critical. He is merely . . . hungry. Intoxicated. You know that, arguably, Diavolo has all of the power here - and yet you cannot help but feel as though it is you who is really in control.

One of his fingers slides over your sex, gathering your slick on his fingers, winning the chase of your hips as he slides from clit to perineum and back again. You pant aloud, a soft whimpering noise falling from your lips against your will.

"Look at you," he murmurs, enthralled. "Look how you respond, all for me--"

Your fingers clench in the sheets beneath you as Diavolo presses one finger inside you, slowly, letting you adjust to the feel of him inside. You know that he is longing to fuck you with them vigorously - you can see it from the set of his shoulders and his mouth. He is practically buzzing with unrestrained tension. But he keeps his calm, pumping the lone finger in and out of you (you are wet enough that the sound echoes around the room, mixing with your laboured breathing). Occasionally, he buries his finger inside you almost to the hilt and you gasp at the cool sensation of one of his rings pressing against your entrance. He looks amused, his lips curved into a smirk - but he remains solid. He does nothing, in fact, until your hips buck up and you whimper;

"I can take another one, please--"

"Good," Diavolo purrs, his voice persuasive. "Of course you can, cara. Yes. You'll take all of me, won't you?" A second finger joins the first, scissoring you open with slow movements. "You're going to be so good for me. You're going to forget about any other person in the world when you're speared on my cock--"

Your body heats up in embarrassment and pleasure all over. The way his fingers rub inside your channel makes you squirm, your hips wriggling underneath him, your lungs barely able to contain your breath. A tight, hot ball of tension is making itself known low in your stomach, familiar and yet unfamiliar all at once.

His thumb brushes over your clit and your body jolts. Diavolo chuckles under his breath and pulls out his fingers, accompanied by a wet gush of your arousal that seems incredibly loud to your ears. You watch as Diavolo brings his fingers to his mouth and his tongue darts out to taste you.

Your lower body gives a throb as he drinks in your slick like fine wine, as he utters forth a low groan of pleasure. He looks at you with dark-lidded eyes.

"Amore," he murmurs, all soft, quiet words with a steel edge. He shifts, and something hot and silky and damp brushes across your thigh that you realise is his cock. That same body part is positioned with his thumb and forefinger, at the tight entrance to your sex. "Just relax . . . I'll have finished making you mine soon enough--"

His hips move. You're pushed open, his cock deep and thick - your hands come to cling to his shoulders instead of the bedsheets, your voice coming out in a broken little wail.

It is not that it hurts. Diavolo has prepared you, and you are slick and needy enough that there's only the briefest stretch of discomfort - but it is more that Diavolo's cock inside you feels so right. You feel so full and possessed and owned, and you never thought you would need and adore it as much as you do.

You feel like nothing more than a piece of Diavolo's property, a treasured jewel that he wants to lock away and keep for himself forever - and you love it. Your legs lock about his hips without him even urging you to, determined to have him sink inside you as deep as he can go - and Diavolo groans chest-deep at the feel of it.

His hips move, sliding his cock deep and then shallow, enjoying the feel of you tightly engulfing him.

"You're perfect," he growls, lowly. "Tight, hot, wet -- and most importantly, cara . . . you’re mine.” He sighs, pressing himself impossibly deeper inside you so that your toes curl. A pleased rumble in the back of his throat. “You feel so good." He pauses, before he says, demanding; "Tell me how I feel."

"B-big," you hiccup out in between breathless moans and soft, needy pants. "L-like you're filling me up--"

"Tell me, little coniglio . . . do you like being filled up by me? Belonging to me? Having me . . ." His fingers skitter over your breasts, leaving hot trails of fire behind him. The heat low inside you is just burning hotter and hotter, your head swimming with all of the new sensations. "Lay my claim on you?"

You nod. You're babbling, your hips stuttering against his. Everything feels far away from you, now - earlier on that night feels like a fever dream. You can't remember how it felt to be anywhere but beneath Diavolo with his cock drilling deep inside you, making you feel needed and claimed and unmistakably his--

"Yes," you cry out, as his other hand moved lower, brushing your stomach, your mound - parting the lips of your sex so his fingers can rub firm circles on your clit.

There's that heat again, threefold - tumbling over and over itself until you feel fireworks set off behind your eyes and Diavolo's cock pumps harder inside you, your channel squeezing and constricting around him inside you. You're so busy coming, in fact, that you almost don't hear him murmur;

"Good. Because it's something you're going to have to get used to now you're mine."