#It's.... Uh.... not great. But an interesting way to learn for when I'll do the real one

[roxysmini]

Final coat of primer done !!!

It's not perfect, but I think this'll do with the final color and scars I'll add to hide some problems... 😅

I left the headcap pretty much "as printed" because 1. Hair will hide it and 2. This will let me remember where I started and how I got this final result... so much sanding ! I also skipped sanding too much in some joints (both because hard access and makes more friction), you can kinda see it in the shoulder on the top picture.

Now I need to acquire some airbrush appropriate skin-tone paint, and my boy will be much closer to the final result ~ ☆

[uzurakis]

HERE TO SEND YOU BLUELOCK HEAD CANNONS! >:D

Can you do headcannons of the guys and how they would be like if they were teaching us how to play soccer? Hope this is interesting for you ^^, if you're interested to make them thanks in advance!

TEACHING YOU SOCCER?!

featuring: michael kaiser. itoshi rin. oliver aiku. isagi yoichi. bachira meguru.

n. yees darling, i was invested to write this (it's a challenging one because i don't really play soccer myself). hope i nailed it though, thank you to u too <3

MICHAEL KAISER. "nice shot!" kaiser exclaimed, clapping you on the back. "but don't get too cocky, mein liebling."

"learned from the best, i guess," you teased, nodding toward kaiser. "after all, my boyfriend's the world's number one striker, hmm?"

kaiser's eyes widened in mock surprise, a beam spreading across his face. "well, when you put it that way," he said, puffing out his chest with pride and sliding back his golden locks. "i suppose i am pretty amazing."

"ah, but if i'm the world's number one striker," he continued, trying to tease you with words, "then that must mean you have to kneel before me, right?"

you lifted an eyebrow, unable to stop snickering at his exaggerated claim. "huh, is that so?" playing along with his joke. "i guess i'll have to remember to bow down to the soccer king himself."

the guy grinned, clearly enjoying the playful exchange. "that's more like it," now his voice filled with mock superiority, typical kaiser. "but don't worry, i'll be a generous king."

ITOSHI RIN. "fine, i'll try my best, but just so you know, i'm not really good at teaching," rin confessed, feeling apologetic because he’s not used to teaching others. and now, his girlfriend wants to learn how to play soccer.

rin took a deep breath, trying to muster up some confidence as he began to explain the basics of dribbling. "uh, alright, first, dribbling. just try to keep the ball close to your feet for now," he instructed, a bit hesitant.

"oi, dont look at me, look at the ball," he reminded you. "sorry," you chuckled, truly didn't realize you weren't paying attention. come on, just look at him. "if i’m being honest, you look really hot like this," you teased, but, it’s true though!

rin's cheeks flushed slightly at your comment, but he quickly regained his composure. "focus," he replied. though there was a hint of annoyance, you couldn't help but sneak a glance at rin's face as he continued to give you instructions, his cheeks flushed slightly from your earlier comment.

suddenly, rin's voice broke through your reverie, snapping you back to reality. "i said focus!"

OLIVER AIKU. "keep your eye on the ball and follow through with your kick," aiku instructed while you attempted to pass the ball to him.

even when you struggled or made mistakes, aiku remained patient and supportive, offering gentle guidance to help you improve. "try to angle your foot a bit more next time," he suggested, as you missed the mark with your pass. "you're doing great, sweetie. just keep practicing."

by the end of the session, you were exhausted but thankful for aiku's patience and support. he wrapped his arm around your shoulders, a proud smile on his lips.

"you're making progress, sweetie," he soothed, genuine and affectionate. "with a little more practice, you'll beat me out here."

BACHIRA MEGURU. "okaaay, let's start with some dribbling drills," he said, bachira was overjoyed since this meant he had another friend to play soccer with. "try to keep the ball under control as you move around me, kaay?"

you nodded, determined to give it your best shot. as you began to dribble the ball, you stumbled a bit, but bachira was quick to offer a push. "nice job, baby! you're getting the hang of it," he cheered, clapping his hands in support.

with each effort, you gained confidence and dribbled past bachira with greater ease. bachira congratulated you on your small wins every time you successfully escaped him. "woah, that was awesome! baby, i’m so happy!" he exclaimed, giving you a high-five.

"great effort, babes! keep it up, and you'll get it," he encouraged, his words filling you with determination. “lets keep playing together!”

ISAGI YOICHI. "hey, it's okay," isagi said gently, stepping closer to you. "here, let me show you."

he moved behind you and gently guided your legs into the correct position, his touch firm yet gentle. "see? keep your body low and your touches light," he explained, moving your legs in rhythm with the ball. "you've got this, angel.”

with isagi's guidance, you began to feel more confident, dribbling the ball with increasing control. whenever you made a mistake, your boyfriend always offered gentle correction and encouragement.

"nice try, but try to keep the ball closer to your feet," he would say, his tone encouraging. "like this," demonstrating the correct form before guiding your legs to mimic his movements.

@uzurakis

[annewithaneofthegreengable]

Kinktober - Day 4

4th — cockwarming, Max Verstappen

The previous day I The next day I Kinktober masterlist I Main list

Prompt: You are an actress and have been in a relationship with Max for a while. You have been trying to learn all your lines in the upcoming movie, and since this time of the year is off-time, which means no racing for a few weeks for Max, he volunteered to help you remember your lines and practice it with you. 

You and Max sat on the couch together in their comfortable living room. Max had a script in his hand, and the other one was in yours. "Okay, ready to start?" Max asked, a slight smile on his face. You nodded, a look of determination on your face. "Ready as I'll ever be," you replied. Max chuckled. "Don't worry, I'll help you remember your lines. You've got this."

Sometimes you would stumble over a word or phrase, but Max was there to help you through it. He would gently correct or repeat the line if you forgot it completely. "Schatz, there’s another fun way to rehearse all these lines, and you can even memorise it faster. Take a break and meet me in the office.” 

Max's proposal piqued your interest and curiosity. You couldn't help but wonder what new method he had in mind to help you remember your lines more effectively.

With a nod, you got up from the couch and headed towards the office. You found Max already there, waiting for you.

He waves you over to where he’s sitting on his desk chair, motioning for you to sit on his lap. You look at him, confused for a moment, before doing as he wordlessly asked. 

“What are we doing? I thought you would help me with the script.” you half laugh, half ask curiously.

You can feel Max fumble his hands behind you, his cold watch brushing against the warm skin of your tailbone that’s exposed from your dress.

“I’m helping you to study it better with some motivation.” He whispered to your ears. 

You hear his zipper come undone, and that’s when you realize what he’s wanting. Max adjusts you on his lap so you’re hovering, and he aligns his length with your clothed entrance, teasing your clit through your underwear. He pushes the fabric to the side with his fingers, allowing his tip to brush against your wetness. You slowly push yourself onto him, and Max guides himself into you at a snail’s pace. You aren’t quite wet enough yet, so he takes his time. Once he’s wholly sheathed inside your warmth, Max grabs your hips so you can’t move.

“I want you to just sit here and be a good girl while learning, alright?”

“That’s kind of hard with you inside me, Maxie .”

“You can do it, baby. You’re so good for me.”

You aren’t sure what you’d do if you had to act normal while Max’s thick, now-throbbing length is being squeezed by your walls. 

He grunts softly as you shift a little, and he kisses your neck, nipping and sucking on your skin. Max's trying to distract himself by reading the script. "Act 1, Scene 1... Oh, god, you're getting wetter, aren't you?" 

​​He starts moving his hips slowly, pushing himself in and out of you, his thick length stretching you open with each movement. He keeps his hand on your hip, holding you in place as he sets a slow, steady pace. "Focus, baby... Focus on the script..."

Max thrusts into you, disguising it as a minor shifting in his chair, and you have to clear your throat to stifle a moan, “Uh … Oh, a chapel. Do…Do you think dad will be able to cross the threshold,” you try to read the line outloud. 

“You are doing great, Schatzi. Can you go on.”

“Of course,” you nod your head, rubbing your palm along Max’s thigh out of sight. 

Max's breath hitches slightly at your touch, but he keeps his face neutral, continuing with the script. "That’s a good question…" He punctuates each phrase with a measured thrust, maintaining the facade of simply coaching you through the scene. His voice grows huskier.

You begin to feel restless on Max’s cock, wishing for nothing more than to fuck him senseless. You want to end your learning session, spin around, and bounce on him for hours. But of course, until he gives the word, you can’t move. Max's intense gaze bores into you as he slowly trails a finger along your jawline. 

“Please,” you whimper, “Let me move.” “Then move.”

With his permission, Max's hands move to your backside, gripping firmly as he helps guide your movements. His hips thrust up to meet yours, the two of you finding a rhythm together. The sound of your labored breaths and wet, slapping bodies fills the room, the script is long forgotten on the desk.

Taglist: @formula1-motogpfan @iamafootballfanmiasanmia @arian-directioner @annimausi @mythicalmaven @lucycowr @hamilton-mount @Chuxk-leclerk @landosgirl @Kikiaaaay @iluvvmeeee @stars4me @starz4me1 @fxrmuladaydreams @Ashleyo1611 @ln-fours @cloud-55 @neo-stay @mysteriesincorporated @nzygftoji @dinodumbass @qxeenjen @lilmacabe @9fi @sya-skies @toriiez @jud-3 @ryl-xoxo @fandomz-queenie @gracie23x @kr1sblog @b-law @F1fan24 @taylorsdoratheafr @missevrythingg @salma @cherrypopsicle @toasterpiastri @uhhvictoria @01rrdbull @aracelys-stuff @horseymchorse3 @lou-ghoul @unknownmystery22 @thisbitxhs-blog @toxicdreamer296 @maxivstappen @si1ver06 @mendes-bae @bestgirlie @mbioooo0000 @depressedgiftedburnout @lieslostinsilence @chaoticversion @kaydesssssssss @maryelizaart @milkyymelanine @bisrae @carlando4 @mystichandspruneshark @sweetwh0re @larastark3107 @fiveyjustin @moonchildlec @bicrazybabe @maximumflaps @sainzwife @i--sa @liviav @nitonan-blog @moodymoony71 @horrible-decision @verstappenluv111 @Meyla123X @bea-stilinksi24 @Hayley125 @imjustme-n @elizamoe133 @bernelflo @evie-likes-stuff @anne1444444 @celtis--vr @rockytheluver @orlafitz1664 @aliceespector @ricciadosredbull @novelant @briannamh07 @oliveswiftly @hotlapshottakes @sinners-98-world @ramenblutte @fallenlunar @little-nando14 @fore45fore @importantduckhumanoidpatrol @eroselless @strabunny @sydneyhlove @jkdaddy01 @multi-fandom5 @f1-hoff @kittylolly4 @reguluscrystals @uhhvictoria @arian-directioner @forza-dolce @dukeofjjune @vimayxo @ilove-tswizzle @peachapat119 @mythicalmaven

[tizeline]

I’ve never seen a separated au with Leo being raised by big mama, what do you think that would be like? (Since he’s kinda rebellious)

For the record, there are AUs where Leo's been raised by Big Mama, the ones I know of are Gemini AU by tangledinink and True Colors AU by v-albion. I'm not super familiar with either of them, but they're there if you wanna check them out.

That being said-

LEO being raised by BIG MAMA omg I have THOUGHTS

Listen, I don't see enough people compare Leo to Big Mama, but he's quite similar to her. Splinter and BM never got a kid together, BUT IF THEY DID that kid would literally be Leo he's basically just a fusion of the two of them!!

As I've mentioned several times before because I love bringing it up, Leo is strategic, quick-witted, observant and good at talking. In the show (as well as in my own AU) Leo's strengths aren't really recognized, let alone aknowledged for a big portion of the story. Because of that, for a long time he doesn't really get the chance to develop these skills, as much potential Leo has to become a master planner his impulsiveness and inexperience has a tendency to get him into trouble.

BUT! All of these skills also happen to be skills that Big Mama has and would value in Leo. So if he were to actually have to opportunity to not only be raised by BM but also trained by her for his entire life. If he got to properly learn strategy, planning, manipulation...?

... Holy shit Leo would be terrifying.

Think about it, canon!Leo managed to out-smart BM in Many Unhappy Returns without any real experience, just imagine what he could do with a whole life-time of training.... yikes!

Not sure what exactly Big Mama and Leo's relationship would look like. In my opinion she would view him as her son and love him dearly, especially if she knew that he's Splinter's biological son.... it's just that BM has interesting ways of showing affection. ("The love of my life just proposed to me?? Great! I'm gonna lock him up in my gladiator fighting ring for the rest of eternity!") She'd at the very least be quite controlling, I imagine.

As you pointed out, Leo can be quite rebellious, so that mixed with Big Mama's obsessive need to be in complete control of everyone around her would certainly cause some tension. Actually... considering how clever Leo would be in this AU... uh oh.

All of these qualities that BM initially appreciated and encouraged in Leo, what if, as Leo became more and more capable, Big Mama started to eventually view them in a more negative light? If she feels like she's loosing control over Leo, if she interprets Leo's rebellion as not just a normal teenage need for independence but rather him malicously working against her. What if she starts viewing him not as an asset or as a tool, but rather a threat?

If BM has reason to believe that Leo might try to overthrow her and take control over her criminal empire, she might take preemptive action and get rid of him before he has the chance to get rid of her.... Not like murder-get-rid-of, I don't think she'd just kill him, lol! But like lock him up, maybe throw him into the Battle Nexus, I dunno. Anything that would allow her to remain in control of both him and her business.

As for Leo, maybe he would actually try to overthrow BM. Considering he was raised by a literal mafia boss, his moral compass is gonna be a bit wack. Maybe Leo's desire for control over himself would cause him to try to seize control over his mother's business. Oooooorrrrr maybe Leo just wants some independance but doesn't actually want to compete with BM, so when she interprets his actions and behavior as malicious he's not prepared for that at all and, as a result, is more than a little hurt that his own mother would take such extreme actions against him. Who knows?

Hhhhhhh there's a lot of fun posibilities here but MAN I'm not really in the mood to work on an entirely new AU. Maybe I'll create some art for it I dunno, this concept is really fun, but I'm not gonna turn this into a proper Thing, so if anyone else wanna steal this concept and explore it for themselves, feel more than free to do that!

[d6volution]

Corporeal.

Caine/Fem!Reader

caine wants to learn more about humans, so why not become one himself? surely, these new waves of emotions and new desires won't become an issue.

requested by: @kenenergy

tags: mutual pining, eventual smut, fluff, human!caine, lingerie, reader is down bad for caine but won't admit it.

Chapter one.

"I just don't know bubble! After letting them all down about the exit I feel... a little guilty?" Was that the correct wording? Humans were far more complex than he could imagine. But, oh, so interesting.. what could he do to learn from them better? He tapped the bottom of his jaw with a gloved finger in thought.

"Well, maybe you could—" Bubble began but Caine cut him off before he could get a word out, "Gadzooks you're right bubble! To understand them, I have to become like them! Of course! What a great adventure that'll be!" He exclaimed and extended his arms out in delight.

"I'll get a brand new.. body! All equip with artificial human emotions, looks, the works!"

Caine said , happily agreeing with himself. All it'd take was a snap of his fingers.

"Can I have body too, Caine..? I'd absolutely.. love to.. hug everyone.." Bubbles voice drifted off strangely at the end of that sentence and Caine stared... that certainly wasn't a good idea.

"Uh.. no!" He said just as cheerfully as if he were to agree.

SNAP!

the following day..

Knock, knock, knock!

The noise broke you out of your extremely light sleep. You got out of bed without issue, feeling groggy wasn't exactly a thing here. "Coming.. coming.." You sighed and pushed aside the fluffy comforter, rubbing your eyes and stretching out your body. It was still taking some getting used to.. you dragged yourself to the door and swung it open, Ragatha stood there, hands clasped in front of her. She gave a small wave, "Hey, y/n! Uh, Caine called everyone to the main hall, so I just came by to.. get you." Her sentence trailed off with a little chuckle as she pushed some of her red locks from her face.

"Oh, thanks Ragatha." At the mention of Caine you seemes unconsciously adjust your clothing and hair, what can you say? He's a charismatic man.. it was hard not to be a little attracted to him. Not like it would lead to anything, he certainly didn't seem to be interested in you humans, not anymore than playthings at least.

"Let's get going then, don't wanna keep everyone waiting." You flashed a kind smile at the doll like woman and you both walked together to where the others were already gathered, exchaning mundane conversation on the way.

"Well, well well glad you ladies could make it!"

"C.. Caine..!? What the [censor] !?" Your eyes were nearly popping out of your sockets and even ragatha seemed taken aback, mouth agape.

"We can't have that, y/n but I will give you a pass because I'm sure you are quite surprised by my apperance!" He said followed by a wacky sound.

"Yeah........" Zooble chimed in , "Welcome to the party."

Caine was.. human? His face was chiseled like an old timey talk show host. Dark brown hair was skicked back except a single curled strand hanging above his forehead ... he, of course, had on his iconic red suit and still held his baton, but he was just.. human now. And fuck was he handsome. Just what his goal?

"I'm sure you're all wondering why exactly I look—"

"Who cares," Jax said, arms crossed. Clearly annoyed, it almost seemed like Caine was mocking them in his opinion, "What about us? Does this mean we can get our human bodies back?"

Oh.. oh. You didn't even think about that, he's right. At least you'd feel a bit more normal here, surely there had to be a way. With a tinge of hope in your eyes you looked at Caine, waiting for his answer.

"Ah—" Caine raised a finger, but it soon fell. "Well.. no. This is simply coding, ones and zeros, Jax! Nothing more." He said, his grin a bit more charming when hes human, though now that you get a good look at him the 'coding' on him was too perfect. His skin had zero imperfections and his teeth were inhumanly white.

"So, our adventure today will be a little different! None of those devious little gloinks to steal your things away, no no! Just different trials for human emotions! Who will crack first!? Who will cry first !? Oh, the horrors! And I will be standing by to drink up everyones reactions!"

Everyone stood in silence, some annoyed some just downright confused. But, they didn't exactly have a choice but to follow through with the new adventure.

"Now go on my little superstars! Head to the dining area with the other NPCs!" He shoos you off but you purposely linger behind, waiting for the others to head off first.

"Yes, y/n, can I help you dear?!" He said , unknowingly in your personal space. But it quickly became apparent as his expression seemed to shift a little, usually it wouldn't bother him.. being this close to you but now, as a 'human' it felt a little strange. Causing him to clear his throat.

"O.. Oh nothing, I just.. wanted to say being a human.. kinda suits you Caine." You laughed a little and skipped off into the dining area leaving Caine with a flushed face. He touched his cheek, confused by the weird reaction he was having.. humans sure are interesting creatures.

Inside the dining area everyone was sat down with a the wooden mannequin NPC, they spoke to each person differently. Trying to provoke a reaction out of them, it must have been apart of Caine's way of getting you all to release different emotions he could learn from.

You took your seat in front of the wooden doll, [Y/N, welcome, you're late you should be ashamed of yourself.] The voice was robotic and out of habit you almost snapped back, but that's what Caine wanted probably. After all everyone was either close to strangling the faux mannequin or getting up to leave out of frustration. Caine made sure the trials pushed their buttons.

"God.. what is Caine thinking, this is so .. weird." Zooble commented, leaning back against their chair as their mannequin had been.. well out of commission thanks to them. "Hey.. where'd y/n go..?"

You found a way to sneak off, seeking out Caine again. You had more questions about this.. human transformation of his, not only that there had to be a way to get him to turn you all human again. It could be the first step to getting out of here.

You rounded the corner and shuffled back behind it, peeking past it to see Caine getting a haircut from bubble. "Anddd.. There!" With comically large scissors he snipped off a ungodly chunk of hair, without thinking Caine popped bubble and made all the chair he was sitting in disappear. His hair reappearing perfectly as if it hadn't been cut at all!

Your mouth dropped.

"Oh, y/n! Shouldn't you be at the trials? What slippery little snake you are, come now let's get you back!" He got close to you and you shuffled back, to avoid being instantly teleported back there. "W.. Wait! Caine.. I had a few questions."

"Questions? What about?" His eyes studided yours, "Oh, right, of course! This must be about my handsome new human face correct?" He said with a all to charming grin.

"Well, ... yes.. Don't you think you should have a human test the validity of your new... er.. body." You said attempting to close the distance between you, and he allowed it. You extended a hand and caressed his face, he looked at you with wide eyes.

"Did I.. perhaps get something wrong here?" He said a little confused, the close proximity between you two was causing him to flush uncontrollably. "Well, your face is a bit.. too perfect? Still so.. did you make yourself attractive on purpose?" You caught yourself tracing the features of his face and had to pull back.

"Well.. yes! Humans seem to respond well to, a more attractive face!"

It was getting a little awkward for the both of you, Caine cleared his throat. "Note taken! Will ..there be anything else y/n? If not then chop chop, your trials are almost finished!" He didn't let you answer, too confused and taken aback by these feelings coursing through his veins. He snapped his fingers and you were back in the chair with the damn mannequin.

Great.

Meanwhile Caine was still hovering in place, touching the same place you had caressed him a moment ago. "Humans sure are.. interesting, what a strange feeling!" He said and lifted his hat where bubble emerged from. "Day one, I will call a success bubble! One step closer to understanding these bundle of emotions we call humans!"

Later that night, Caine was sure everyone else was in their rooms before he too attempted to "sleep" it was apart of the learning process he thought. He desperately tried to push back the unraveling emotions in his body. Your fingertips, lips and even voice was encompassing his every waking thought.

Perhaps it would be smart to stay close to you throughout this experience. You are making his body and mind react in such strange ways and you've hardly done anything.

Surely, this won't have any repercussions later.

(next chapter.)

[platonic-writer]

I love your account so much, I want to cry every time I read smth with dadttore

Almost every fic with him includes !child reader with his interests and personality, basically his copy. But what about GN!Dottore's child reader who is opposite of him? Like, the scientist and his theater/art kid.

Imagine him trying to teach reader something, while they are like "Oh yeah, by the way I got lead role in school theater" or "Wow, that's great, but can I go sew/paint now?"

Omg opposite reader 🙏

You're Request has been made!! Im so sorry it took so long!!! I am drawing a lot these days because i entered an Art Competition!

OPPOSITE GN!CHILD READER & PLATONIC DOTTORE

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

Dottore doesen't know how Reader became the opposite of him-

He's a Scientist, he raised you to be one too!

How did you turn into his opposite!?

Since you were a child he tried making you into a Scientist like himself but it never did work

At the age of 3 you started running away whenever Dottore would take you to show you an experiment

You would hide behind a Box and secretly do whatever you desired

You learned how to sew, draw and even dance while hiding

At 5 years old you told Dottore with a presentation that you wanted nothing to do with Science

" My presentation is called 'How to let your child be themselves.' Dad! You have to Listen carefully!( ͡ᵔ ͜ʖ ͡ᵔ)"-Reader

" ( ͠° ͟ʖ ͡°) " -Dottore

It somehow worked...?

He now lets you go whenever he experiments and now you get to show him everything you do!

The drawings you gave him are displayed in his Laboratory

And he brags about them while he experiments on the victims💀

You and him have yap sessions

Every day either he or you yap

You talk about new books or what you painted today, and Dottore talks about what experiments he did and has to do

At the age of 8 you got your first Role in a Play!

"OHRHR DAD DAD! LOOK IM THE MAIN LEAD IN MY PLAY!!WAA IM SO HAPPY!!ヽ(>∀<☆)ノ"-Reader

"Thats great kiddo! I'll be sure to watch you in that play! Now, i have to tell you about this experime- " -Dottore

" nuh uh. (￢_￢;)" -Reader

Yep, reader walked away

As time went on Reader became more and more interested in the World

So whenever Dottore went to a Mission, Reader asked for different Items and so

Dottore always bought things that he thought reader would like back

He gave reader different Instruments whenever he came back

And now Reader plays lots of different Instruments in the Laboratory

The Drums are Reader's favorite Instrument because its so loud💪

You play it at the dead of the night or when Dottore is focused on something

Dottore hates that Instrument so much because of you

But he can't just destroy it! Its your favorite!

He bears with it for you😭💕

Summary: You may not be like Dottore, but he loves you for what you are . He loves your art and whenever you show him something New! You may not be a Scientist but you will always be his Partner in experiments! He tries to understand your view on things and will always listen to you whenever you yap about stuff!

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

Ty for reading! I hope you liked it. Check out my other works!σ(≧ε≦σ) ♡

[krispycreamcake]

sakamaki with a latin gf!!! pleasee

From author: I fucking love poc asks so much. Also to make this just a tiny bit easier on myself since I have writer's block rn, I'll just do something a bit short today

Sakamaki's with a Latin gf

Shu Sakamami

🎻- Slightly intrigued by the culture

🎻- Would honestly ask a couple questions if he was up to listening to you rant about your customs

🎻- Honestly likes the music you play sometimes (he has a playlist of Celia Cruz but shh)

🎻- Also yes yes before you shoot me, I know he likes classical but he seems like the type of guy who could appreciate the way how salsa music incorporates different instruments to have a specific kick to the genre

🎻- Once you told him about paella and now he asks you to make it for him almost all the time

🎻- Terrified of meeting your family and avoids it at all costs but tries to pretend it doesn't bother him

Reiji Sakamaki

☕️- Extremely educated on Latin culture

☕️- Asks you for local book recommendations

☕️- Genuinely wants your opinion on Japanese culture and how much of a difference it is compared to your own

☕️- Like Shu, he enjoys the music and if he had to pick he'd say Los Tres Diamantes was his favourite band from that genre

☕️- Invested in learning Spanish and takes pride in tackling another language alongside German

☕️- Since Latino culture is extremely diverse, he'd ask you about your OWN personal experience a lot of the times

Ayato Sakamaki

🏀- "Of course the great ore-sama could obviously get any girl he wants from around the world!"

🏀- Cocky asshole

🏀- See it's one thing being able to charm those around you that you share similarities with, but it takes something special to make someone completely different than yourself fall in love with you

🏀- And Ayato knows this, takes pride in it even

🏀- Hmm when it comes to how interested he is about the culture I'd give it 5/10

🏀- He cares about you more than all those fancy songs and food, but that is YOUR culture, so by extension he kinda has to care even if it's just a little bit

🏀- Asks you to speak Spanish and if you can't, he'll make fun of you for it and tease you by telling you to go learn a thing or two from Reiji

Laito

🃏- Lorddddddd

🃏- LORDDDDDD

🃏- Well before I start, let me just say that he's also educated on the culture just maybe not as much as Reiji, so anything he does is a means to tease you by playing coy and outright stupid

🃏- Just also would like to add, if you're from Brazil and happen to have a curvy body, he WILL comment on that

🃏- If you have a flatter body type, he'll tease (annoy) you by asking how come you don't have more uh curves in certain areas because that's supposed to be what you're "known for"

🃏- Trust me, he's only saying this to get a reaction, he loves you in his own weird fucked up way

🃏- But expect a lot of comments like that and at some point you'll probably need to tell him off

🃏- Midnight salsa dancing because well, do you honestly expect anything else from him?

🃏- One of his favourite things to do is watch those cliche over dramatic Spanish dramas and eats it up every single time there turns out to be a twin brother

Kanato Sakamaki

🧸- Like Ayato, doesn't care that much about the culture, rather his main focus is on you

🧸- Probably likes to hear you tell scary folklore stories from wherever you're from

🧸- And on that note, he already knows about La Lloronoa and Sihuanaba

🧸- Makes Teddy™ cover his ears when you get to the scary parts

🧸- Comments on how he'd still love you as a vengeful ghost and might even prefer it that way

🧸- Like Laito, he has this preconceived notion that you're meant to be curvy but doesn't care if you aren't

🧸- Besides if he only liked you for your body, he'd kill you and preserve you somewhere, hiding you away from the rest of the world where only he could see you. But he'd never do that riiiiiiight?

Subaru Sakamaki

🥀- Learns how to salsa when no one is around so he could impress you one day

🥀- Like Laito, he also watches those cliche Spanish soap operas but pretends he doesn't like them and think they're overrated (He's on the second season of Monarca)

🥀- Secretly interested in the culture and would ask Reiji for some books so he could learn more

🥀- Doesn't want to seem dumb in front of you but also doesn't want make a fool of himself by saying words he doesn't understand or asking dumb questions

🥀- If you speak Portuguese or Spanish, likes hearing you talk in your native tongue

🥀- Out of all the brothers, he'd be the one to treat you the most "normally" by not pestering you with questions or flaunting you off like a trophy he just won

🥀- You try to teach him your native language so you could both shit talk his brothers right in front their faces

From Author: It has been so long since I opened this app omfg but I've been busy with a lot of irl things so now I should have a bit more time to produce more content yay (I'm this close to jumping off a bridge with how dead the fandom is rn)

[half-oz-eddie]

Tommy has a journal (?)

(Read below, or on Ao3)

When Buck starts staying at Tommy's more often, he's given free access to move a few things around and make himself at home. While Buck is making himself some room in a bottom drawer, he finds out that Tommy has a journal.

It's a seemingly old book with a blue hard cover and elastic closure.

Buck really wants to know what's inside. Not because he's nosy, (partly because he's nosy) but mostly because he wants to know what Tommy uses it for. Knowing his boyfriend is also into journaling is exciting new knowledge for him. What is he logging in his book? Does he write his thoughts and feelings, affirmations? Does he use it took keep himself organized?

Buck told himself it may be too intrusive to ask, but he wants to know.

One night, when he stays over, he leaves the room to spy on Tommy, and see if he will take out the journal and write in it. He planned to waltz right in and curiously ask "what're you writing?" so he could learn what Tommy uses his journal for.

He just had to know, it was all he could think about.

For an entire week, he'd sneak off and leave Tommy alone to see if he'd grab the journal, but he didn't.

Buck began to assume that maybe Tommy didn't like to use the journal when he came over.

He told the 118 about his silly little predicament.

"Why don't you just ask him what he uses it for?" Hen wondered.

"Because that's too invasive!"

"So you'd rather spy on him when he's possibly writing down his most intimate thoughts?" Eddie chimed in.

"I'm not trying to spy! I don't actually want to see in the journal. I just want to know what sort of journaling guy he is. Maybe we can go shopping for new books and supplies together!"

"So...just invite him to do that and see what kind of things he wants to buy." Chimney proposed.

Buck nodded. "Yeah! That's a great idea!"

So, Buck takes Chimney's advice and invites Tommy to Michael's with him. Buck shows Tommy some journals, stickers and stamp pads, but Tommy doesn't seem very interested in them.

He does buy some gel pens, though.

Buck considers that a clue. Maybe Tommy uses the pens for color coded writing. He's going to ask him about it in the car.

"So, gel pens, huh? You bought that multicolor pack. Tha-that's pretty cool."

"Yeah, I figured I could take some, and you could take some. They're retractable and great for jotting things down."

"Oh, definitely. D-do you know which colors you want?"

"Eh, I don't think it really matters." Tommy shrugged, eyes remaining focused on the road. "I'll just switch between colors when the other runs out of ink."

Buck nodded. He still wasn't getting anything juicy about Tommy's journaling habits. Maybe Tommy didn't have any. Or maybe he was a "go-with-the-flow" type of guy.

Buck decided to kick it up a notch. "So..." He began as they walked in the door. "I was thinking we order a pizza and maybe we could have some uh...some journaling time together?"

"Journaling time?" Tommy raised a brow.

"Yeah! I-I'll break out my new journal and you can get yours. We-we can just...have some quiet time and write in our journals together."

Tommy snickered. "Evan, I don't have a journal."

"Y-you don't? B-but I found that journal in your bottom drawer and I thought..."

"Oh, that." Tommy disappeared into the bedroom and returned with the book and handed it to Buck.

Buck excitedly opened the book, frowning at the blank pages.

"I don't exactly...like journaling, so I never used it. My therapist suggested it a few years ago but it didn't work for me. I prefer doodling."

Buck's eyes lit up once more. "Do you have a sketch book?"

"Nope. I just...doodle on napkins or scraps of paper and then throw them away."

"Throw th—" Buck scoffed. "Throw them away?! Tommy, get back in the car."

"What? Why?"

"We're going to get you a sketchbook."

"Now? What about pizza?"

"We'll pick up pizza on the way home." Buck pushed Tommy out the door.

At least they could still have their journaling time together...sort of.

[mysteryshoptls]

SSR Leona Kingscholar - Bloom Birthday Vignette

"Happy Birthday"

[Savanaclaw Dorm – Birthday Party Venue]

Leona: Sigh, these interviews are a pain… Crazy how they can keep doing this year after year without gettin' bored of it.

Leona: So then, I wonder who's my presenter this year…

???: Ay, I made it. Excuse me!

Cater: Heya, Leona-kun. Happy Birthday!

Leona: Tch, and in walks in one of the loud ones.

Cater: EH, DID YOU JUST CLICK YOUR TONGUE!? C'mon, it's your birthday, you gotta try to have a bit of fun ♪

Cater: Today, I'm planning on asking you every little thing to learn everything about you, Leona-kun, so be prepared～

Leona: Well, aren't you real chipper. Alright, I'm fully expecting you to make this the best birthday ever, then.

Cater: U-Uh, you might be putting a little too much pressure on me there? But okay, let me just restart, and… Let's dive into the first question!

Cater: “If you could use flight magic to go anywhere, where would you like to go?”

Cater: And, it doesn't look like you have to worry about the amount of magic you'd have to use.

Leona: So, anywhere I want, huh… Then, I want to go to a full-service hotel and spend my time lounging about.

Cater: Ooh, so you want to just enjoy a resort to the max. That sounds great, and I bet you'd be able to take a ton of awesome pics ♪

Leona: Yeah, I'm not planning on going to any of the noisy places you're probably thinking of.

Leona: Since I'm going to be using flight magic to get there anyway, I'd rather find a remote place that normal people wouldn't really be able to get to.

Cater: But if it's a remote location… Then You can't really enjoy any sightseeing or recreational activities.

Leona: I told you, I wanted to just lounge about. If I were to run around like that, it completely defeats the purpose.

Cater: So, basically…. You're wanting to "do nothing," right?

Leona: Yeah, that's the best way to live in luxury, don't you think?

Leona: Food is prepared when I'm hungry, and the bath is ready for whenever I feel like taking one.

Leona: And there, in that quiet and comfortable environment, I can sleep peacefully without being bothered by anyone else

Cater: Not being bothered and in a quiet place, huh. Yeah, I guess that's not a bad way to go about it.

Leona: Right? As Dorm Leader and as Captain of the Magift team, there's a ton of things I have to constantly worry about, you know.

Leona: Basically, that just means that I also need some time off to rest my mind and body once in a while.

Cater: Ahaha. I bet I know a few people who'd be cross hearing you say that… But hey, I guess I get how you feel, Leona-kun.

Cater: Alllright, now that I got to hear a lot about that, I'll move on to the next question ♪

[Savanaclaw Dorm – Birthday Party Venue]

Cater: 'Kay, second question!

Cater: "What is your best class?"

Cater: Now here's a super interesting question!

Leona: Huh? How.

Cater: Yeah, because you're real smart. So I def wanna know what class you like best～

Leona: So, you think I'm smart, huh. I guess I'll go ahead and take that as a compliment.

Cater: Well, obviously it's a compliment! I have a hard time getting most of my classes, so I'm a bit jelly. Is there some trick to it?

Leona: I've had private tutors ever since I was a child. Obviously, the curriculum also contained classes that wouldn't be found in this school, too.

Cater: Uh… which means?

Leona: All the stuff that they teach here at this school, I learned way before enrolling.

Leona: Basically, everything I know isn't from just sitting behind a desk and studying like crazy, like your little Dorm Leader.

Cater: I see～ So you're saying that the stuff we learn in class are basically second nature to you, huh.

Cater: Okay, then, let me change the wording up a little bit… What's your favorite class?

Leona: My favorite class, hm… If I had to choose one, that'd be Ancient Incantations. That one is at least not as boring as the other classes.

Cater: Woah, Ancient Incantations, huh～ That's the one where you try to decipher old languages that aren't even used anymore, right?

Cater: And there's still a ton of languages that haven't been deciphered yet, either, right?

Leona: Yeah. And many of those languages were made to conceal magic spells in the first place. So they were already created to be complex.

Leona: That's why even subject matter experts also have a hard time combing through them.

Leona: Even just trying to read the individual letters is a chore. And even if you can figure those out, there's no point unless you can actually understand the words and sentences.

Leona: It has to be carefully analyzed by comparing the new content to old words that have already been translated, or rules that have already been pre-established.

Cater: I already have trouble with just what's in our textbooks, so I can't even imagine trying to figure out even more difficult things like those languages…

Cater: What can someone do to get better at ancient incantations?

Leona: It's just that I already was interested in that type of thing. I guess the thing that dragged me into it was this inscription I found in the Sunset Savanna.

Leona: There was this very long engraving in some old language…

Leona: The first time I looked at it, I had no idea what it was supposed to say, but then I started to translate it in my spare time, and…

Cater: AND? WH-WHAT DID IT SAY? SOME KIND OF ROYAL SECRET THAT NO ONE KNOWS!?

Leona: It was just the country's history. On top of that, basically it was stuff already in the textbooks.

Cater: Ehhh, you got my hopes up, and that was it? That was kinda anticlimactic.

Leona: Yeah, it's basically a boring story once you get into it… But it wasn't too terrible learning how to decipher it.

[Savanaclaw Dorm – Birthday Party Venue]

Cater: Last question! Here we go.

Cater: “What would you like to do in the coming year?”

Leona: Not to repeat a year, that's all.

Cater: Wh…! EH, THAT'S IT!?

Leona: Isn't that important enough?

Cater: I mean, yeah, but～! You gotta have something else you wanna do too.

Cater: Like, surpassing 1,000 followers on Magicam, or winning a Magift tournament…

Leona: Okay, then that.

Cater: Eh, what do you mean by "that"?

Leona: The whole, "winning a Magift tournament" thing.

Leona: I want to draw out the magical shift team's full potential and win at the national championships― That's closer to the answer you were looking for, right?

Cater: Now you're making me feel like I forced you to say that～ …Well, I guess that's better than not getting an answer.

Cater: Okay, then, I got a question for you, since you're captain of the team! Do you ever coach the younger students?

Leona: Yeah, of course. For example…

Leona: There's some guys who'll slack off during games because they don't have enough stamina and they want to conserve energy.

Leona: It'll be detrimental to have people not give their all during important games. So, to help build stamina, during passing practice…

Leona: I would send the disc flying long so they'd have to run from one end of the pitch to the other.

Cater: Woah, that's so tough! If you're that hard on them, won't you have students drop out…?

Leona: That's also part of it.

Cater: Eh, what do you mean?

Leona: We don't need anyone who takes off and runs like a coward just because their pride and confidence is torn down.

Leona: They should get angry when defeated and vow to do anything to get revenge―

Leona: The Magift club doesn't need anyone who lacks that kind of determination.

Leona: Only the guys who are fully prepared to overcome anything can get a starting spot on the team.

Cater: W-Wow… You're really sounding like a team captain, Leona-kun!

Cater: But I guess it's a little surprising to hear that you take care of your teammates like that. Maybe you're actually a softie inside?

Leona: Hah? No way.

Leona: I'm just doing the bare minimum as the leader of the pack.

Leona: I'd rather be spared being held back by someone who's just completely useless.

Cater: Interview completed～! Next is… Ta-da! Here we are, take this broom and go fly on the Birthday Road.

Leona: Sheesh, that's a fancy lookin' broom.

Cater: Yeah, it's pretty showy, but it's also pretty dignified, so I think it's perfect for you, Leona-kun ♪

Cater: Okay so, go and show them all how it's done. I'll make sure to take pictures of you flying out there!

Leona: I'm only saying this one, but don't do anything I haven't asked you to… I got no intention of being on display for you.

Leona: Aah, finally, it's quiet. I guess I'll go out and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the sky all by myself, then.

Requested by @dorito9708.

[howlingday]

The One Where Emerald Finds Out

Oscar: (Knocks on door, Opens) Hi.

Sun/Neptune: Hey~!

Oscar: I have to go to Atlas.

Jaune: What?!

Sun: The kingdom?!

Oscar: No, there's this book with the map of the world in it. Yes, the kingdom! (Sighs) Is Mercury here?

Sun: Sun... Neptune... Nope, just us and Jaune.

Oscar: So he's out with Emerald, huh?

Neptune: Oh no! How could she do that when she's never shown any interest in you?!

Oscar: ...

Sun: FOR! GET! A! BOUT! HER!

Jaune: I hate to say it, but they're right, man. Eventually you gotta learn to let go and move on with your life. Go to Atlas, do your thing, and if you get the chance, punch Ozpin for me.

Neptune: I mean, don't punch yourself, obviously.

Sun: Unless he can feel it, too.

Oscar: Right, I... I don't know... Can you just give this to her? It's for her birthday.

Jaune: Sure thing, man.

Sun: And hey, we're just looking out for you. I might have a couple of beers in me, but... I love you, man. (Hugs)

Neptune: I'm still on my first, so I just think you're nice.

Jaune: (Chuckles)

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

Yang: Who wants burgers? And who wants Ren's veggie burger?

Ren: (Smiles) I want my veggie burger, honey.

Ruby: Can we do presents first? I wanna give Emerald my present to her!

Weiss: It's her birthday, Ruby. She doesn't have to do them now if-

Emerald: Eh, sure. I wouldn't mind getting my presents before food.

Weiss: In that case, open mine first!

Ruby: No, mine!

Emerald: If it gets you two to stop, then I'll take them at the same time.

Ruby/Weiss: (Hand over lien)

Emerald: ...Oh, wow. I don't know who's present I like more. If only there was a way to tell how much their both worth in lien. (Group laughs)

Jaune: Alright, my turn! (Hands over gift)

Emerald: It's... (Opens gift) ...a green pen. Uh, thanks. (Hands back)

Jaune: (Slumps)

Nora: (Pats his back) Well, if she doesn't want it, can I have it? Anyway, my turn! (Hands gift)

Emerald: (Opens gift) "Pumpkin Pete Goes Home".

Nora: That book got me through some rough times.

Ren: It's true. It did.

Mercury: What kinda little kid are you?

Jaune: The kind who can break your legs. And yeah, even yours.

Emerald: Speaking of, where's your present?

Mercury: I'm right here, obviously!

Emerald: ...Can I get a receipt? (Group laughs) Wait, who's gift is that?

Neptune: Oh, that's from Oscar!

Emerald: Really? Didn't think he could afford a gift, since he just left on a last-minute trip. (Opens gift, Gasps) Oh... Oh my god...

Ruby: What is it?

Emerald: It's... It's a brooch. It's just like the one my mother had. I... I didn't think he would remember.

Mercury: Remember what?

Emerald: Couple months ago we were walking around Shade and we passed this jewelry shop and there was a brooch in there just like my mom had when I was a kid. I... I can't believe he remembered!

Jaune: Well, he does have a mental notebook to help him remember.

Nora: It looks so pretty~!

Weiss: And expensive. How did he afford this?

Jaune: Oh, you know how Oscar is. I mean, remember that time he and Ruby were dating, and when he fell in love with her, he bought her that scythe keychain?

Emerald: ...When he what?

Jaune: (All eyes on him, Gulps) Uh... S... Scythe keychain?

Emerald: No, no, no. What did you say about him loving me?

Jaune: Ah... Ammah guh...

Emerald: Oh... Oh my god...

Jaune: (Turns away) No, no, no, no, no, no...

Sun: Hey, uh, I don't know if you know this, but turning around doesn't undo screw-ups. Believe me, I tried.

Emerald: I... I can't believe Oscar loves me.

Nora: This is huge!

Jaune: No, no, it's not! It's small! It's tiny! It's wee!

Nora: No way, this is such a game-changer! I don't think anyone here is going to be the same after hearing that!

Jaune: Nora, I love you, but do you have a mute button?

Ren: She doesn't.

Ruby: This is so great! I mean, I dated him a while ago, so I can tell you he's a great guy!

Weiss: Did you have any idea?

Emerald: No! None! I mean, after you and your boyfriend started going out, he mentioned something about going out, but he didn't try anything after that. (Grabs Neptune) Hey! Tell me! Does he still want to go out with me?!

Neptune: Uh, well, considering how he's desperately in love with you, I don't think he'd say no to a cup of coffee sometime.

Emerald: I... I need to talk to him!

Jaune: You can't!

Neptune: He's in Atlas!

Sun: The kingdom!

Weiss: He's meeting with Whitley about some new Dust policies, and he needs Ozpin for council. I can call him right now.

Neptune: W-What about the towers? Aren't they down?

Ruby: Whitley's bullhead hasn't left yet. We can still call him right now!

Jaune: No, you can't!

Emerald: Why not?!

Mercury: Because he's probably not in love with you anymore.

Emerald: What do you mean?

Mercury: Because these idiots told him to get over you.

Emerald: ...

Jaune: Oh no...

Sun: Door?

Neptune: DOOR!

Sun: (Opens door, Runs into Blake clone)

Blake: Where do you think you're going?

Jaune: Oh no- Ack!

Nora: (Holding him up) WHERE ARE YOU GOING, MY LOVE~?!

Neptune: Help me, Mercury!

Mercury: I just sold you guys out. What makes you think I'll get between you and all of them? (Points to bloodthirsty RWBY)

Neptune: ...Yeah, that's fair.

Emerald: Hey, Princess. Can you take me to them? I... I need to talk to Oscar. Face-to-face.

Weiss: For the sake of love, I'll ignore the princess remark and help you. (Leaves with Emerald)

Neptune: EMERALD, WAIT! I LOVE YOU! DEAL WITH ME FIRST!

Ruby: You just keep digging yourself deeper, don't you?

[kat-thepoet]

Invisible string

CHAPTER THREE

A/N: I'm so sorry that I haven't posted in a week, I had the flu and I didn't feel well enough to write. But i'm all better now! Anyways, enjoy!

Previous chapters: CHAPTERS

Word count: 4313

After spending the afternoon immersed in my thoughts and ideas, I finally had a rough outline of how I wanted to approach the lessons. I decided to start with something simple—introducing the students to the world of literature. It was the only way I gained knowledge of the world since I'd barely stepped outside the orphanage, let alone out of town.

I sat back in the chair, feeling a sense of accomplishment, though a little nervous about how it would all come together. The room was quiet, the late afternoon light casting long shadows across the floor. I hadn't realized how much time had passed until I heard a soft knock on my door.

I blinked, glancing at the clock—dinner time already?

"Come in," I called, and the door creaked open to reveal Hank, standing there with his usual kind, slightly awkward smile.

"Hey, Flora," he greeted. "Just wanted to let you know it's time for dinner."

I smiled, feeling a bit guilty for losing track of time. "Thanks, Hank. I didn't realize how late it was. I guess I got a little carried away with planning."

Hank stepped inside, his hands in his pockets. "It happens to the best of us. We tend to eat around the same time every evening, but, uh, I figured I'd come grab you, just in case."

I stood up, stretching a bit after sitting for so long. "What time do you guys typically eat? I feel bad that someone has to come look for me."

Hank chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No worries. We usually eat around six, but we don't mind checking in on each other. You'll get used to the routine soon enough."

I nodded, appreciating his thoughtfulness. "Thanks, Hank. I'll try to be more mindful next time."

He smiled warmly, his demeanor gentle and understanding. "Don't worry about it. We're all still getting used to things around here in one way or another."

As we walked together toward the dining area, I found myself wondering how dinner would go tonight. Last night had been... tense, mostly because of Erik's presence, and I couldn't shake the feeling that his dislike of me was somehow affecting the atmosphere for everyone else too. I hoped tonight would be different, but a part of me doubted it.

When we entered the dining room, the familiar scene unfolded: the long table set with dishes, the soft hum of conversation as everyone settled in. Storm, Scott, Jean, Raven, and Charles were already seated, and I noticed Erik once again at the far end of the table, his expression as unreadable as ever.

I took my seat next to Raven, offering a polite smile to the others as they welcomed me with nods and small greetings. The food smelled good, but my stomach twisted with unease.

"So, how did the planning go?" Storm asked, her tone casual but friendly.

"It went well," I replied, trying to focus on the positive. "I think I have a good starting point for the lessons. Tomorrow's going to be interesting, though."

"You'll do great," Jean chimed in with a reassuring smile. "The kids are going to love learning from you."

I smiled back, grateful for her support. "Thanks, I hope so."

As dinner continued, I glanced down the table and noticed something odd—Erik wasn't completely silent tonight. He was speaking with the others. Not much, but enough to make it clear he wasn't completely withdrawn. He commented on something Scott said, and even exchanged a few words with Storm about the training schedule for the week.

It took me a moment to realize that while he was talking to the others, he hadn't said a single word to me. Not a greeting, not a glance—nothing.

I tried to shake it off, telling myself it didn't matter. He didn't owe me anything. I was the newcomer, and Erik had made it clear that he wasn't interested in getting to know me. Still, as I listened to the quiet conversations around me, the fact that he was ignoring me entirely started to gnaw at me. It wasn't like he was cold to everyone—just me.

I shifted in my seat, my fork pausing over my plate as I tried to focus on the conversation with Raven and Jean.

"Everything's ready for your first class tomorrow, right?" Raven asked, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"Yeah, I've got it all planned out," I replied, forcing a smile. "I'm hoping the students will connect with it."

"They will," Raven said confidently. "You've got this."

I nodded, trying to hold on to that positivity, but my attention kept wandering back to Erik. Every time I glanced his way, he was speaking with someone else, completely avoiding even acknowledging my presence. I wondered if anyone else had noticed—or if I was just being overly sensitive.

"Don't let it bother you," Raven whispered suddenly, leaning in as if she could sense my discomfort. "He's always like this."

I gave her a quick nod, trying to brush it off. "I know. I'm fine."

But the truth was, it did bother me. Everyone kept telling me that Erik would eventually warm up, that it was just his way of dealing with new people. But how much time was I supposed to give him? And what if they were wrong? What if he didn't warm up to me at all?

I tried to shake off the frustration as dinner wore on, focusing on the others' conversations and ignoring the tightening knot in my stomach. I had a lot on my plate already, with the first lesson tomorrow, and I didn't need to waste time worrying about Erik's attitude.

But as the meal continued, and Erik's voice mingled with the others', his silence toward me felt more and more deliberate. I forced myself to smile and laugh along with everyone else, pretending that it didn't bother me at all.

By the time dinner was over, I felt drained, not just from the conversation but from the effort of pretending that Erik's coldness wasn't affecting me. Everyone else seemed oblivious, and I didn't want to make a big deal out of it.

But as we cleared the table and said our goodnights, I couldn't help but wonder if I was the only one noticing how hard Erik was working to keep me at arm's length.

It was well past midnight, and no matter how hard I tried, sleep just wouldn't come. I tossed and turned, my mind running in circles—half of it filled with nerves about tomorrow's lesson, the other half consumed by thoughts of Erik.

He was a jerk, plain and simple, but I couldn't stop wondering why. Everyone had told me he would eventually warm up, but so far, he seemed determined to keep me at a distance. His behavior at dinner—the way he deliberately ignored me while talking to everyone else—stuck with me like a thorn I couldn't pull out. What was his problem? Why did he go out of his way to avoid me?

With a sigh, I gave up on sleep. I was too restless, too wound up to lie in bed any longer. Maybe some water would help calm me down.

I swung my legs out of bed and stood up, glancing down at my outfit: a small tank top and even smaller shorts. Definitely not nun-approved, but I wore them anyway, glad for the comfort and cool air on my skin. It didn't matter—it was late, and I wouldn't run into anyone.

But as I stepped out of my room and into the hallway, I quickly remembered one crucial detail: Erik was my neighbor. Of all people, it had to be him.

For a brief moment, I stood frozen, listening for any signs of movement from his room. The last thing I needed was to run into him in the middle of the night, especially dressed like this. The hallway was quiet, save for the soft hum of the air conditioning, and I hoped he was fast asleep, completely unaware of my presence.

Just in case, I turned invisible. With a deep breath, I started making my way toward the kitchen, walking as quietly as possible down the hallway. Each step felt louder than it should have, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of paranoia, like I was being too loud—too noticeable, even though I was invisible. The door to Erik's room loomed as I passed by it, and I quickened my pace, desperate not to linger near it for too long.

"Of all the people in the world," I muttered under my breath, "he had to be the one next door."

When I finally reached the kitchen, the soft glow of moonlight spilled through the windows, casting long shadows across the floor. The stillness of the night had a calming effect, and for a moment, I let out a sigh of relief, thankful for the quiet.

I made my way to the sink, filling a glass of water, and leaned against the counter, trying to gather my thoughts. Tomorrow was a big day—my first lesson with the students. I needed to focus on that, on giving them the guidance they needed. But Erik's face kept creeping into my mind, his cold, indifferent expression at dinner, the way he acted like I didn't even exist.

I took a sip of water, letting the cool liquid soothe my throat, but it didn't do much to settle the knot of frustration tightening in my chest. Why couldn't I stop thinking about him? He clearly didn't care about me or what I was doing here, so why was I letting him get under my skin like this?

I set the glass down with a little more force than I intended, the clink of it hitting the counter louder than expected in the quiet kitchen.

"Just let it go," I whispered to myself, running a hand through my hair. "He's not worth it."

But even as I said the words, I couldn't help but wonder if I'd ever get an answer to the question that had been gnawing at me since I first met him—what was his problem with me?

I took another sip of water, trying to push Erik from my mind. But the quiet creak of the door behind me shattered the moment of peace. I turned, and there he was—Erik, of all people, standing in the doorway, looking every bit as unbothered as always.

His eyes briefly flicked over my outfit—small tank top, shorts that would make any nun faint—but he didn't linger. His expression was unreadable, as always, but I could tell he noticed.

"You're up late," he said, his voice low and calm.

I swallowed, trying to keep my own voice steady. "Could say the same to you."

He stepped further into the kitchen, heading for the fridge. "I'm always up late."

Of course he was. I glanced away, pretending to focus on the water in my glass. The silence stretched between us, and I couldn't help but wonder if he'd keep ignoring me like he had at dinner. Just when I was about to slip out of the kitchen unnoticed, he spoke again.

"That's an interesting choice of sleepwear."

I stiffened, glancing down at my tank top and shorts. So, he had noticed after all. "It's comfortable," I replied, my tone sharp. "Not that it's any of your business."

Erik unscrewed the cap from a bottle of water, his eyes narrowing slightly as he leaned against the counter. "Just making an observation."

I huffed, trying not to let his comment get under my skin. "Is that what you do? Make observations and throw judgment around?"

He didn't answer right away, just took a long drink of water before looking at me again, a small, infuriating smirk playing on his lips. "Only when it's worth mentioning."

I could feel my patience slipping. "You know, if you don't have anything nice to say, maybe just... don't say anything?"

Erik raised an eyebrow, the smirk never leaving his face. "That's rich, coming from you."

I blinked, caught off guard by his remark. "What's that supposed to mean?"

He shrugged casually, like this whole conversation was a game he was winning. "Just that you've been tiptoeing around, acting like you belong here, when clearly, you don't know what you're in for."

My temper flared. "I belong here as much as anyone else does. I'm doing my best, and if you've got a problem with that, maybe keep it to yourself."

Erik set his water down on the counter with a deliberate slowness, his eyes locked on mine. "Keep telling yourself that, Flora."

His voice was smooth, cutting in the way that made it hard to tell if he was mocking me or just stating the facts. Either way, it grated on my nerves.

I crossed my arms, refusing to back down. "You don't even know me."

"And I don't need to," he shot back, his tone as cold as ever.

We stood there in tense silence, the space between us feeling charged with unspoken words, snarky comebacks, and a mutual dislike neither of us was willing to back down from. I hated how much he got under my skin, how much his stupid, smug attitude made me want to argue with him even more.

"Whatever," I muttered, grabbing my glass and turning toward the door. I was done with this conversation.

But as I reached the doorway, Erik's voice followed me, sharp and mocking. "You'll need thicker skin if you're going to last here, Flora."

I froze for a second, his words hitting harder than I wanted them to. Without looking back, I muttered, "Maybe you should try using less of it."

And with that, I walked out of the kitchen, leaving Erik behind, still infuriatingly unbothered, while I felt my pulse race with the tension from our exchange.

As I made my way back to my room, I couldn't help but wonder why he had to be like this. Why he had to push every button I had, and why I kept letting him get to me.

The next morning, the soft light of dawn filtered through my curtains, and I woke up earlier than usual. I felt a mix of nerves and excitement—today was the day I'd officially meet the students and start teaching. There was a lot to prepare, and I wanted to make sure everything was perfect.

After taking a moment to gather my thoughts, I got out of bed and glanced at the clock. It was early enough that most people were probably still asleep, which gave me plenty of time to set up the classroom without interruption. I felt a little relieved at that thought—I could use the quiet to calm my nerves.

I headed into my bathroom, grateful that I didn't have to share it with anyone else. The warm water of the shower helped relax the tension I hadn't realized had built up in my shoulders. As I stood under the spray, I reminded myself that this was what I'd come here to do—help the younger students and create a space where they felt safe to learn and grow.

After my shower, I dressed quickly in a pair of jeans and a crisp white dress shirt, feeling a little more professional, yet still comfortable. I wanted to make a good impression, but I also wanted to be myself.

Once I was ready, I grabbed a few supplies and headed out of my room, eager to get to work. The hallways were still quiet, the early morning light casting soft shadows through the windows. As I made my way toward the classroom, I found myself thinking back to last night—specifically, my encounter with Erik. The way he mocked me, the way he always seemed so detached and indifferent. I shook my head, trying to push the thought of him aside. Today was about the students, not him.

When I reached the classroom, I unlocked the door and stepped inside. The room was just as I'd left it yesterday—bright, airy, and full of potential. But it needed a little sprucing up. Dust clung to the shelves, and the desks were slightly out of order. I spent the next hour cleaning, dusting the surfaces, and using my telekinesis to arrange the desks into a neat semi-circle so the students could easily interact with one another.

By the time I finished setting up, the classroom looked inviting and organized. The dust was gone, the desks were perfectly arranged, and I'd even placed a few potted plants around the room to add a touch of nature. I stepped back, admiring my work with a sense of satisfaction. This was it—my space, my classroom.

I checked the clock and realized it was almost time for the students to arrive. My heart fluttered with a mix of anticipation and nerves, but I reminded myself that this was just the beginning. I could handle it.

I was just about to take a deep breath and gather my thoughts when there was a soft knock at the door. I glanced at the clock—it was a little early for the students to start arriving, but maybe someone was eager to get to class.

Curious, I walked over and opened the door to find a small child standing there. She couldn't have been more than six or seven, her wide eyes peeking up at me through a curtain of curly brown hair. She held a stuffed animal—a well-loved rabbit with floppy ears—tightly in her arms. The girl looked a little nervous, shifting from foot to foot as she glanced up at me.

"Hi there," I said gently, crouching down to her level with a warm smile. "You're here a bit early, aren't you?"

She nodded shyly, hugging her stuffed rabbit closer. "I like to come early sometimes," she whispered.

I smiled, touched by her sweetness. "Well, you're welcome to come in and get settled," I said, stepping aside to let her in. "I'm Flora, by the way."

The little girl walked in slowly, her eyes wide as she looked around the room. "I'm Lucy," she said softly, her attention fixed on the plants I had placed around the room. "I like your plants."

"Thank you," I replied, watching as she walked over to one of the potted plants near the window. "Do you like plants?"

She nodded again, her face lighting up a little. "They're pretty. I talk to them sometimes."

I smiled at that, feeling a warmth spread through me. "You know, I talk to plants too. They don't answer, but I think they listen."

Lucy giggled, a soft sound that made me feel like I was already connecting with her. She looked at me with a little more confidence now, her eyes sparkling as she hugged her stuffed rabbit a bit tighter.

"Do you want to help me with something?" I asked, standing up and gesturing toward the small stack of books I'd brought to hand out to the students. "I was just about to put these on the desks. Maybe you could help me?"

Her face brightened at the suggestion, and she nodded eagerly. "Okay."

I handed her a few books, watching as she carefully placed one on each desk, her small hands working with focused care. She seemed to relax as she worked, and I could see that the quiet early morning had been exactly what she needed.

"You know," I said as we worked, "I think you're going to be a big help in this class. You already know how to make things look just right."

Lucy beamed up at me, the last traces of shyness melting away. "Thank you, Miss Quinn," she said quietly, her voice a little stronger now.

By the time we finished, the classroom felt even more ready than before, and Lucy looked like she'd found a bit of confidence in helping set things up. I couldn't help but feel that this was exactly the kind of connection I wanted to create with the students—trust, comfort, and a safe place for them to be themselves.

As more students trickled into the room, filling up the desks, I felt a slight flutter of nerves. I glanced at the clock and then at the door, waiting for Charles to show up and introduce me to the class as we had planned. But the minutes ticked by, and there was no sign of him.

The students settled in, chatting quietly amongst themselves, and I started to feel a little anxious. I had been counting on Charles to ease me into this first lesson, to give me that little boost of confidence in front of the students. But as the clock ticked closer to the start of class, I realized I couldn't wait any longer.

Taking a deep breath, I decided to take matters into my own hands.

Standing at the front of the classroom, I gave a small, encouraging smile to the students, trying to project more confidence than I felt. Lucy gave me an eager wave from her seat, and it gave me a small boost of reassurance.

"Good morning, everyone," I began, raising my voice slightly so that all the students would hear. The chatter died down, and the kids turned their attention to me, their young faces full of curiosity. "My name is Flora Quinnell, but you can all call me Miss Quinn. I'll be your elective teacher from now on."

The room was quiet as the students watched me, some with wide eyes, others with a little hesitation. I could tell they were waiting for me to explain who I was, and more importantly, what I could do.

"I know this is probably a little new and maybe even a bit scary," I continued, meeting their gazes. "But I want you all to know that this is a safe place for you to learn and grow. We'll be talking a lot about literature, books, and all of that good stuff, but more importantly, I'm here to help you understand your powers and how they can connect with the world around you."

A few of the students exchanged looks, intrigued but still a little unsure. I could sense their curiosity, though. That was a good sign.

"Now, some of you might already know a little bit about me," I said, glancing over at Lucy, who was sitting up straight in her chair, her stuffed rabbit still tucked in her arms. "But for those of you who don't, I have a few abilities of my own. I can turn invisible, I can move things with my mind, and I can change moods."

There was a collective gasp from some of the students, their eyes widening in amazement. A few of them whispered to each other, clearly intrigued by the idea of someone who could turn invisible.

"To give you an example," I said, feeling more confident now as I stepped forward, "I'll show you a little bit of what I can do."

I closed my eyes for a brief moment, focusing on the familiar shift in my body. A few seconds later, I turned invisible, leaving only my clothes visible.

The students' reactions were immediate—wide-eyed stares, excited whispers, and a few amazed giggles. After making my way around the classroom, I returned to the front, shifting back into my visible form. The students erupted in excited chatter and applause.

"That's so cool!" one of the kids exclaimed, their excitement contagious.

I smiled, feeling the tension ease away. "Thank you. And just like how I've learned to understand and control my abilities, we're going to work together to help you understand yours. Everyone's power is different, but each one is special."

The students seemed more at ease now, their initial hesitations replaced by curiosity and excitement. I could feel the atmosphere in the room shift—this was exactly the kind of connection I had hoped to make.

As the class settled into the lesson, I felt a sense of pride. Even without Charles's introduction, I had found my footing. The students were already starting to trust me, and that was the most important part.

Just as I began guiding them through the day's activity, the door creaked open, and Charles finally appeared, a small smile on his face as he quietly came inside.

I gave him a quick nod, letting him know that everything was under control. He returned the nod, looking a little impressed, but he didn't interrupt. He took a seat in the back of the room, watching the class unfold as I continued.

With Charles seated quietly in the back, I continued the lesson, guiding the students through a simple activity.

As the lesson wrapped up, the students gathered their things, chattering excitedly as they headed out of the classroom. Lucy gave me a shy smile as she left, clutching her stuffed rabbit tightly.

Once the last student had gone, Charles wheeled himself over to me, his expression warm.

"You did well, Flora," he said, his voice calm and encouraging. "The students responded to you, and that's not always easy on the first day."

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief. "Thank you. I was a little nervous, but I think it went okay."

Charles nodded. "You have a natural way with them. That's a gift, and one that will serve you well here."

I felt a swell of pride at his words. It meant a lot to hear that from him, especially after the uncertainties I'd had about fitting in at the school.

As Charles turned his wheelchair to leave, he paused at the door. "Remember, Flora—what you're doing here isn't just about teaching them to control their powers. You're helping them understand who they are. That's a responsibility not everyone can handle."

His words hung in the air long after he left, filling me with a renewed sense of purpose. Today had been just the beginning, but it felt like a good one.

I tidied up the classroom, my thoughts still lingering on Charles's words. It was strange how quickly I had come to care about these students, how much I wanted to help them succeed. As I wiped down the desks, I couldn't help but think of Erik's sharp comments last night. His coldness, his distance—it all seemed so unnecessary.

And yet, despite his harshness, I couldn't stop thinking about what he had said. Or maybe it was the way he had said it—like he knew something I didn't. Something I needed to learn the hard way.

🏷️ @nizem8 @maximumchilddreamland @mostlymarvelgirl

Chapter: FOUR

[theamityelf]

how do you think a daemon would work with the whole hajime izuru thing

Uh-oh, Danganronpa Daemons AU? Let's go!

I think, in a scenario where:

everyone has a "daemon" (your soul living beside you in talking animal form)

daemons "settle" (meaning they stop changing at will into different animals) when you mature (adolescence)

they can't go far from you

their pain is your pain and vice versa

Hajime's daemon settled when he got into the reserve course, but before he actually started attending Hope's Peak. Like, around the time of that flashback where all his normal classmates are like "Really, you can pay your way into Hope's Peak?", his sense of self really solidified. Most people's daemons settle sometime in middle school.

During the Kamukura Project, I'm going to say the objective (in addition to all the talent stuff they were also doing) was to have him live without a daemon. Killing a person's daemon kills them, but they're trying to basically reverse-engineer that whole connection and figure out how to have an Ultimate Hope who doesn't have the same vulnerabilities as everyone else.

They "succeed", in that there's a point in the experiment where his daemon vanishes and doesn't return, and he stays alive. It's an understood truth that Izuru Kamukura doesn't have a daemon, and therefore he doesn't have a soul.

Really, his daemon learned to become incorporeal, as a projection of Hajime's desperation for the scientists to stop hurting him, and it will become corporeal again if and when Izuru feels safe indulging in emotion again.

When that happens, the daemon (and it's "she" pronouns for the daemon) won't appear to Izuru himself; she'll appear near someone important to him (like Fuyuhiko, Sonia, Nagito, Makoto), and she might be severely injured. She's remained incorporeal because she needs someone to tend to her injuries (from everything they did to warp Hajime's selfhood), and she's been waiting for someone who will care for her and won't just kill her. Letting one of Izuru's friends tend to her wounds requires her to let them touch her, which is extremely intimate. (She knows there's a non-zero chance that Izuru might kill her, if she appears to him pre-character development. She won't appear to Izuru until she's healed, and even then she still trusts the touch of Izuru's friends more than Izuru himself. They have to grow back together.)

TL;DR: His daemon vanishes during the Project, but he still has one. It'll come back when it feels safe. It now has the ability to become incorporeal and travel some distance away from him.

I'm going to say Hajime's parents named his daemon Minami (which I borrowed from Hajime's voice actor), and she settled as...you know, in a vacuum, I'd find it fascinating to say a tortoise, but I'll put that aside because, while I like it reflecting his defensiveness, I don't want it to actually have a way of defending itself. Which sounds monstrous of me. 😊

I'm leaning chipmunk or tree sparrow. Both fairly plain and unassuming; he cannot have an interesting daemon. Chipmunks: known for fitting an absurd amount of food in their mouth at once, hearkens to his ambitious side. Sparrow: bird, flight, freedom. Hearkens to Chiaki's statement that not having talent makes him freer than those who do have talents. (Plus, when she's injured, a broken wing symbolizes the loss of freedom.) Either one is a small, helpless animal that would look great 1. secretly appealing to Izuru's friend(s) to help it heal, and 2. sitting on Izuru's shoulder once he's accepted it as his daemon again. (Or he finds it at the wrong point in his character arc and just steps on it real hard. Sorry, lol.)

I'm going to go with sparrow. Yeah, Minami is a sparrow. Pre-Project, she has a nervous energy, where Hajime himself usually tries to mask his nervousness as other feelings. (Basically, her behavior gives away how nervous he often is.) After the Project, she has the vibes of an Oracle. She's seen a lot, she knows generally how stuff is going to go, she's no longer nervous, but she still cares about things on about the same level as Hajime did.

Below, I have taken the liberty of sketching Hajime and Minami. She's kind of flying around his head, saying stuff, and he's swatting at her a little because he's annoyed. Basically, this is him going, "Stop that; you're embarrassing me. Keep your voice down."

[elysiaheaven]

𝗕𝗮𝗯𝘆𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴..?-𝟮𝟭-(The Fox's Wedding)

Words:2676

The conversation continued, a lively argument broke out between Yanqing and Yunli.

"First, you didn't kick my butt!" Yanqing declared, his voice filled with youthful defiance. "Second, you'll never kick my butt! Third, how about we settle this right now and see who kicks whose butt?"

Yunli grinned, accepting the challenge with gusto. "Yeah, I'm up for that! And if I kick your butt, you'll drop out of the Wardance. Deal?"

March 7th, looking puzzled, interjected, "Why are you two arguing again? I thought things had been improving between you lately..."

Jiaoqiu, observing the commotion with mild interest, explained, "There was talk that the leading disciples of the Luofu and Zhuming generals were supposed to face off in the Wardance, but for some reason, they suddenly teamed up to train an apprentice of their own. Turns out the rumors are true."

"Tomorrow is the big day of the Wardance," Jiaoqiu continued, his tone taking on a slightly more serious edge. "Shouldn't you two be focusing on honing your skills instead of teaching swordplay here?"

Yunli looked at Jiaoqiu, recognition dawning in her eyes. "Ah, you're... um, you're... That's right! You're the pink-haired fox from the Yaoqing!"

March 7th chuckled, adding, "This is Mr. Jiaoqiu."

"Pink-haired fox..." Jiaoqiu mused, a faint smile playing on his lips. "What are you laughing at? You've got pink hair, too!"

"Well, this is Mr. Jiaoqiu, the healer working for the General of the Xianzhou Yaoqing," March 7th clarified.

Yunli, catching on, asked, "So, you're the participant attending the Wardance on behalf of the Yaoqing, and you were trying to sneak a peek at our training?"

Jiaoqiu shook his head with a light-hearted chuckle. "Sorry for the misunderstanding. I don't know anything about martial arts. I'm just here on the general's orders to take care of some official business. I didn't mean to interrupt your training. I'll be on my way."

Yunli raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "If you know nothing about martial arts, why were you smirking earlier?"

Jiaoqiu shrugged, his smile widening. "Well, my curiosity got the better of me, I suppose. When I heard Miss March's pondering about what to learn, I couldn't help but wander over."

From behind you, you offered a soft, almost ethereal laugh. "It's true, isn't it? Sometimes even the sweetest of us can get caught up in the chaos. But don't worry, you two are doing great."

Jiaoqiu, now focused on the conversation, continued, "From my professional experience, cleavers, slicers, chopping knives, and carving knives are all just tools, kind of like frying, sautéing, boiling, and deep-frying in cooking. They're just ways for people to show off their skills. How you use them really depends on the ingredients you're working with."

Yunli's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Are you saying our swordplay is like cooking?"

Jiaoqiu nodded, his tone more animated. "Exactly! It's like your sword teaching methods. If you align your 'ingredient' — in other words, your apprentice's natural tendencies — with the right 'cooking method' — that is, the teaching method that best suits her — she'll make double the progress in half the time!"

You took the opportunity to interject with a kind smile. "Just remember, it's not just about technique. It's about how you nurture and support each other."

Jiaoqiu added, "For example, Golden Eggplant tastes best when fried, Cloud Peppers when stir-fried, and Yellow Boulder Beef when simmered. It's all about discovering the nature of the ingredients... uh, I mean, apprentice."

March 7th, already feeling a pang of hunger, laughed. "All this talk about food is making me hungry."

Yunli, confused, asked, "Aren't you a healer? Why are you talking about food?"

Jiaoqiu shrugged. "Well, it's just a metaphor. The medicinal school I follow on the Xianzhou Yaoqing is called the Ranzhi School, which specializes in food therapy, so it's only natural that I know a thing or two about cooking."

Yunli raised an eyebrow. "So... you're the general's cook?"

Jiaoqiu chuckled. "I'm a healer! But anyway, a cook who isn't interested in health doesn't make for a good advisor. Fine, call me a cook if you want."

The conversation shifted, you approached Yunli and Yanqing with a warm, genuine smile. "I hope you both find your way and enjoy the Wardance. Remember, it's not just about the fight, but about the camaraderie and the connections you make along the way."

Jiaoqiu, however, seemed to get more serious. "Picture this: Two individuals, the one standing is full of malice, the other lying down is honorable and righteous. How can the one who's lying down label the one standing as 'sinister?' In the throes of combat, where life and death hinge on a singular moment, every idea fades into nothingness. The only thing that matters is 'staying alive.' Surviving the battlefield reshapes all notions of worth. Be it integrity or treachery, in my eyes, their significance is negligible."

Yanqing, feeling the weight of Jiaoqiu's words, responded, "Perhaps you've underestimated Yunli and me, Mr. Jiaoqiu. We may be young, but we've seen our fair share of war."

Jiaoqiu acknowledged their point with a nod. "Well, well, then you should know that the Wardance is nothing more than a contest. So, why are you so focused on it?"

Yanqing explained, "When I was appointed as the ringmaster for the Wardance, I asked the general: 'We Cloud Knights are supposed to charge into the fray and slay enemies. Why do we have to swing swords in a ring just to please an audience?' And this is how the general replied: 'To unsheathe your sword in a ring is no different than on the battlefield, as your sword reveals the might of all Cloud Knights.'"

Yanqing's voice held a note of pride. "The Wardance is the perfect chance to showcase martial virtue and forge alliances from all over the cosmos. When we unsheathe the sword without drawing blood, we not only display our might but also the martial virtue of the Cloud Knights."

Jiaoqiu, now intrigued, said, "That's quite an insightful statement, Yanqing. Well, my apologies for being so short-sighted. I've been on the Luofu for quite some time, but I haven't had the chance to see the ceremony venue for myself yet. Hearing you speak so highly of it has piqued my curiosity. Would you mind showing me around?"

Yanqing's eyes lit up. "You want to see the Skysplitter ship where the Wardance will be held? Let's go! I bet Yunli and Miss March haven't seen it either, right? Well then, I'll give you all a tour."

Jiaoqiu: "Surviving the battlefield reshapes all notions of worth. Be it integrity or treachery, in my eyes, their significance is negligible."

Yunli, curious, looked at Jiaoqiu with a hint of concern but decided to keep her thoughts to herself. She turned to you, her cat-like form now back to its original state after a brief transformation, and asked, "Can you believe it? March 7th has actually become a pretty decent swordmaster in such a short time. Now I understand why grandpa always had a grin on his face while training me."

You responded with a soft chuckle, "It's amazing what a bit of dedication and the right guidance can achieve. March 7th certainly has talent, and it seems like her training has paid off."

Yanqing, eager to move on, looked at the group and said, "Let's go. I'll give you a tour of the Skysplitter."

With a quick teleport, the group arrived at Stargazer Navalia.

Jiaoqiu, taking in the surroundings, remarked, "Looks like a lot of other visitors have also come to catch a glimpse of the Skysplitter."

Yanqing noticed Jiaoqiu's contemplative expression and asked, "What's up, Mr. Jiaoqiu?"

Jiaoqiu hesitated before replying, "No... it's nothing."

Yanqing pointed towards the airship in the distance. "Do you see that airship? That's the Skysplitter, the venue for the Wardance ceremony."

You glanced at the airship with a thoughtful expression and added, "It doesn't look all that impressive from this distance, but I'm sure it's something special up close."

Jiaoqiu's eyes followed the direction Yanqing pointed, and he nodded slightly. "Indeed. It may not seem like much now, but appearances can be deceiving."

Yanqing smiled, ready to lead the way. "Come on, let's get closer and see what all the fuss is about. You'll get a better view soon enough."

Jiaoqiu observed Yanqing with a thoughtful expression and remarked, "Oh, Yanqing, so young, yet so grown-up... By the way, how old are you exactly?"

Yanqing, not missing a beat, replied, "Age doesn't really matter. All swordmasters will understand how I feel."

Jiaoqiu nodded, taking in Yanqing's response. "Hmm... I get it. Looks like all the kids on the Luofu live tough lives. So, how about you, Miss Yunli?"

Yunli, slightly taken aback, responded with a touch of humor, "It's not polite to ask a girl her age, no matter which Xianzhou ship you're on."

You, who had been quietly observing the conversation, interjected softly, "Sometimes the journey is more important than the number of years, wouldn't you agree?"

Jiaoqiu, slightly amused, said, "I'm not asking your age! I'm asking if you have a dream like Yanqing has?"

Yunli, with a hint of playfulness, retorted, "You don't talk like a cook; you sound more like a TV host or something."

Jiaoqiu, slightly exasperated, clarified, "...Need I repeat myself again? I'm a healer."

Yunli sighed and shared her thoughts. "Well, I... I don't have a dream like Yanqing does. The only reason I'm participating in the Ringmaster's Challenge is because I made a promise to my grandfather that I'd win the precious sword he's contributed to the Wardance."

Yanqing smirked, "Sounds like that mind of yours is just filled with swords."

Yunli, with a serious tone, continued, "My... father... was a craftsman on the Xianzhou Zhuming. Because of his foolishness, many innocent people fell victim to the cursed swords he forged."

You, sensing Yunli's pain, reached out with a comforting presence. "It sounds like you've been through a lot, Yunli. Your resolve to protect others from harm is admirable."

Yunli looked at you with a soft smile. "Thank you. Since I was a kid, it's been clear to me that not everyone deserves to have a weapon in their hands. Giving them a sword is no different than being cruel to the innocent."

Jiaoqiu nodded thoughtfully. "So, whenever I come across someone unworthy of a sword, I can't help but want to take it away from them. Given that Yanqing is the Wardance ringmaster, I'm stepping up to challenge him, to ensure the precious sword doesn't fall into the hands of an unworthy master."

Yanqing, a bit defensive, asked, "Hey! What do you mean by 'an unworthy master'?"

Jiaoqiu glanced at you and then back at Yanqing. "I see. It's not easy for kids on the Zhuming either. Well, it's better to have a reason for wielding a sword than to be lost and confused. I've saved countless Cloud Knights in my life, and there are plenty of exceptional warriors just like the two... of you..."

Yanqing noticed Jiaoqiu's sudden shift in demeanor and asked, "What happened, Mr. Jiaoqiu?"

Jiaoqiu shook his head, as if clearing his thoughts. "...Oh, nothing. I was just reminded of some old friends and old tales."

Turning his attention back to Yanqing and Yunli, Jiaoqiu continued, "Judging from my professional perspective as a healer, both of you possess remarkable vitality; your energies flow like raging fires and mighty gales. The upcoming fight... will definitely be impressive."

You smiled gently, adding, "I'm sure both of you will give an incredible performance. I look forward to seeing it."

Jiaoqiu glanced around at the Skysplitter and Stargazer Navalia. "Well, we've seen the Skysplitter and toured the Stargazer Navalia. I guess it's time to say goodbye for now."

March 7th, joining the conversation, said with a touch of disappointment, "What, you're leaving already? But you haven't asked me about my dreams! I've been working hard too, you know!"

Jiaoqiu, with a chuckle, replied, "It's getting late, Miss March. Unlike you lot, I'm a grown-up bound by responsibilities and duties. The tasks entrusted to me by the general won't complete themselves."

Jiaoqiu turned to Yanqing with a curious look. "By the way, Yanqing, is it normal to have so many people wandering around in an automated area like the Stargazer Navalia?"

Yanqing, with a knowing smile, answered, "...Actually, this is a restricted area, but since you're all guests, I made an exception so you could take a look around."

Jiaoqiu nodded, understanding. "I see. Well, I'll take my leave. I wish you both the best of luck in the ring tomorrow."

Jiaoqiu prepared to leave, you stood there, bowing with a quiet grace, your eyes betraying an emptiness that seemed to stretch endlessly. Each step you took felt heavier, like the weight of countless regrets was pulling you further into the abyss of despair. The world around you seemed to blur, the bustling Skysplitter and Stargazer Navalia fading into a distant haze.

You found yourself questioning, once again, why you should even continue. The internal struggle was consuming, gnawing at the edges of your sanity with every unanswered query. You walked alongside Jiaoqiu, your movements slow and deliberate, but the darkness within was encroaching, turning each step into a battle against overwhelming sorrow.

Suddenly, you felt a gentle touch on your arm. Startled, you looked up to see Jiaoqiu's hand resting there. His eyes, usually so calculating and reserved, were now filled with a deep, unexpected concern. For a moment, the world seemed to pause as you met his gaze, the anguish and helplessness reflected in your own.

In that brief silence, the walls you had so carefully constructed around your heart began to crumble. You felt a wave of vulnerability crashing over you. It was as if Jiaoqiu's touch had opened a floodgate of emotions that you had kept tightly controlled. Without thinking, you found yourself speaking, your voice trembling with the weight of your sorrow.

"I'm sorry," you said, your voice barely above a whisper. "I'm so sorry for everything... for ruining your life. I never meant for any of this to happen. I'm sorry for the pain I've caused."

The scene shifts to Jing Yuan in his private quarters, the flickering light of the lantern casting shadows on the walls. He sits at his desk, staring at a letter that has just been delivered. His usually composed demeanor is shattered as he reads, his hands trembling slightly. The contents of the letter unravel the painful truth he had been missing, connecting the dots between recent events and the anguish you have endured.

A single tear escapes his eye as he clenches his jaw, trying to hold back the wave of emotion. The realization hits him hard—he now understands the gravity of what you've been through and the mistakes that led to it. His heart aches with regret as he realizes how much he has misjudged the situation. Without uttering a word, he rises from his chair, determination and sorrow etched across his face. He knows he must see you again to offer his heartfelt apology.

Cut to the ancient seaside shore, where Feixiao stands with an air of quiet anticipation. Her eyes are sharp, but there's a subtle softness in her gaze as she awaits her guests. The scene shifts as Jing Yuan approaches, looking troubled but resolute.

Feixiao "I am glad to finally meet you in person. Guests from the Luofu, I presume?"

Jing Yuan"You're here about the Ambrosial Arbor's resurrection, no?"

Feixiao "Straight to the point. I like it."

Jing Yuan, barely able to mask his distress, takes a deep breath and asks: "One of the messengers... was his name Jiaoqiu? Did he marry the woman named Y/n? No need to worry, I know of her past. and why he might have married her.."

Feixiao's eyes widen with realization. She nods solemnly, understanding now that the pieces of the puzzle are falling into place. Her expression hardens slightly as she contemplates the gravity of the situation.

Feixiao "Yes, Jiaoqiu. He... accidentally married her to save Moze from dying."

Jing Yuan's face reflects a profound sadness as he absorbs this new information. He pulls out a letter from his coat and hands it to Feixiao. It's a letter that provides a detailed account of what ahppened

Jing Yuan: "We understood the history of her past wrong...then, She had every right to be rude towards me."

Feixiao looks down at the letter..

What!? Is Jiaoqiu planning ?!

Is that why..you acted so....mean..? To....Make feel a little better to kill you..?

Your soul has the power to heal...... 

He must have known about it...You also seemed to be aware...

yet

What is.....? Why are you so..? Kind...?

[gryphis-eyes]

⊙ ἀγάπη

" Unable to perceive the shape of You, I find You all around me. Your presence fills my eyes with Your love, It humbles my heart, For You are everywhere. "

⊙ Welcome to this Shape of Water love reading, yes I finaly took my balls and make a love pac hehehe this reading isn’t truly a prediction its more of an assumption about what your ideal partner would be based on your present self but you can technically see this reading as a way to confirm who your next partner would be y’know. It was supposed to be longer but I decided to do it chill since im still a bit rusted lol but I really miss being active on tumblr. For more explaination, the ”core card” is found by additioning the numbers of the cards you picked with Lenormand, for me its a card that show the core/hidden part of a reading but you can use this method in other ways.

◇ Deck used : Rider Waite (only court cards), Lenormand

Masterlist ⊙

 

🜄 Pile 1  

♤ Key, book, ship 【core : coffin】

Court card : king of cups

They seem like someone who’s heart and mind are often clashing but despite it they are quite emotional intelligent, by this I mean that they might be very emotional by nature but they did learn to manage their emotions OR they take an intellectual approach to their feelings, is it a good thing or not ? Well its up to them because this kind of behavior can become toxic for themselves but i got a lot of cards who refer to them being very intelligent. They probably follow a specific philosophy or are into litterature in general, there is this dark academia vibe to them. Very hardworking, full of knowledge but never got enough at the same time, they got bof ”personal intelligence” and academic intelligence, talking to them about various subject must be a great experience for sure. Their intelligence and serious aspect make them quite sensual people might often look at them even if they dont seem to care about other’s look they seem introverted to me. Its like if someone stopped them to compliments them they would be a bit awkward like ”uh? Thank you I guess?”. Very INTP vibe. To be honest I was persuaded that I'll pick the King of Swords to them because of their vibe but not, its the King of cups with the Coffin as the core card so we got someone who have a cold exterior and keep their good side to themselves and to a very close group of people. They have been through tuff situation in their life, would I dare say that they might have experienced depression ? I see them as a melancholic King of cups, imagine an King alone on a cliff looking at the sea, so many thoughts are passing by from a strange theory about a myth to a sad realisation that they are indeed, a hopeless lover. Seems like someone needs to go under that shell to see their true self and heart (but not in a savior way, y’know).

🜄 Pile 2  

♤ Mouse, whip, house, 【core ; whip】

Court card : queen of pentacles

Your ideal partner seem to be... interesting for sure, when I took the first cards I was a bit worried but the last one put the pieces togheter. Basically you got someone who ready to risk it all just to have a quiet and comfy life in their house (the house can also symbolise your relationship), listen to Faith from Karen Aoki the lyrics match them but most importantly for the one who get the reference from where the song come from you might understand the reading in a quite twisted way haha. The character who’s listening to this song is a pretty bad person with a very clean and kind exterior. Of course im not saying that your ideal partner is 100% this character but they remind me of him because he goes as far as killing people to have his quiet life but your reading is LESS extreme haha it just reminded me of him a lot in a softer way. Your ideal partner might even had broken many hearts because they know what they worth and what they want in life and in love, probably even in work and we got an other hopeless lover. They are so focused on perfection that sadly, they became pessimistic wether its because things are too slow, they are faaar from their ideal life or just sometimes they ask themselves if they are good enough or ask for too much in the end but it doesn’t last long since they will quickly get a reminder to not make the bar lower. However when they finally get something wether its a person an animal or an object they take extremely good care of ”it” they are very nurturing and caring, probably got a sweet voice (and touch ?). Once they settle its for the long run, I get something  that they might need a reminder of not being too possessive with their partner because of course a partner is an other human being you can’t predict everything they would do, its the sad truth even the most loving wife can turn into a backstaber (that’s an exemple of course) they are probably terrified of the idea of being cheated on. Especially since they seek their ideal life it probably attract people with the intention to take and disappear. They need a big hug if you want my opinion they probably got some hard time with family and people while growing up. They need love and they know it.

🜄 Pile 3

♤ Sun, cross, Fox, 【core ; bouquet】

Court card ; King of wands

Alright you got the incarnation of the sun here, a golden person ! Very charismatic (and they know it) they make the room light up and when they smile the world is illuminated (I'll stop give it to their ego now). Your ideal partner’s personality remind me of Giorno from jjba. The big light of the sun is balanced by the cross and the fox who add some shade in a good way. Life have been hard on them and so they had to be a fox to survive, sneak their way into situation maybe even got to have jobs that they hated just to get enough money to escape their nasty place. Despite still having a hard time in life they keep up and seem to be always in all of their glory, they are a true born leader and dont mess around. I think if you try to trick them you'll fall from high ground since they are used to hardship nothing can stop them and their heart of gold will always feed their inner flame ! Like the sun they shine bright but alone, despite being great leaders they also do well alone and seem to value those hermit period. People might always say that they are about to fail or that their situation look doomed but you know what ? Even if its need to have some failed attempt they always end up wining,  like I said they are very determined and probably stubborn about their goal. Its someone that you can trust. They got the vibe of the movie Fantastic Mr.Fox, maybe they put a lot of effort into being impressive for ”the public”? Like if someone tell them they can’t do something they will be like ”oh really?” and end up doing this thing better than necessary. Its nice, its amazing but they need some rest and to stop feeling the need to show off all the time haha they know their limit and their worth so they know how to chose their battles, simply because of those things it look like they are always wining.

[azurlily]

Hello, how are you? I hope you're alright (:

Is it possible to request an Azula x gn reader with an arranged marriage trope (both reader and Azula are aged up of course)? Both of them have feelings for eachother, but since Azula doesn't want to accept that they were married against her will and reader values morals like honesty and sincerity very much (those morals are of course humiliated by Azula on a daily basis lol) they need a bit of time to really find together.

I hope you like the request, please have a great day (:

Ooooo I like this!! I'm doing well! Better than before! I'd like to point put that this is the last month I'll do a specific reader type(shy reader, trans reader, mean reader, you get the idea).

ANYWAY I LOVE THIS IDEA THIS SOUNDS SO INTERESTING TO ME!! Sorry if I didn't get it exactly right!

"I haven't done anything wrong! If you didn't want that old man to get hurt- oh- and you're crying...sorry?"

Azula doesn't know what too rough means. She also doesn't know what mean means. She assumes you cry because you're sad or angry, not because...of her. Okay, maybe she knows, she just doesn't want to admit it.

Azula sees your sincerity and honesty, she sees it as weakness at first. Slowly it becomes one of the things she loves about you the most. How lying is wrong, and hoe you want people to be happy. She sees it as something to protect. You don't see this type of thing often.

Azulas feelings blossom when you start bringing her things. It's your way of showing your love and interest in her. You bring her things she likes, or things you've been told she likes. There has been an occasion where she lied about liking something and you learned about it. You chided and scolded her for a few days.

"Yes, yes, yes, I'm listening. What we're you saying, uh-"

She finds herself falling in love with you. Wanting to watch you more and more often, seeing all the nice things you do. It's a complete contrast for her, and she knows it. That's why she likes it so much. Azula likes knowing something so different is more than willing to be by her side.

She does mention you and your family to her father. Wether you're an important figurehead or not, she wants to see you higher up. Azula wants a reason to be closer to you; her father acknowledging your family. Well- that's just an amazing reason. She does try and help your status, she wants people know you. Know how amazing and beautiful/handsome you are.

When her father and your parents have a meeting. They talk about Azula and your common interest in eachother. They talk and come to an "obvious" conclusion. The two of you should marry. Your family could help influence, and maybe a lifetime partner will help Azula be a bit more interested in in the things her father wants.

(Not like she isn't already)

They finalize everything before either of you know. They have everything signed and agreed upon, then wait some time. The closer the two of you are, the easier this will be.

Anyway this marriage is definitely not one that anyone else would have seen coming. Azula, on the other hand, knew. That's why she's been pulling away recently. She doesn't want to be married to you forcefully, even if you are cute.

Even though Azula has strong feelings about you, it takes a damn while for her to admit it. When the two of you are hidden in the darkness of her room. Her hands holding your own, her face much too close to yours. The warmth of it all, the love and kindness she'd rarely ever show.

It was all ruined when the marriage was announced. At first you were both dumbfounded. How could this have happened? Right under your noses?

Azula, instead of feeling a sort of happiness, being happy that her relationship with you is secure. Instead she's angry, how dare she be forced to marry you. Marry someone so kind, so truthful, so sweet. It felt like she was drowning in her own angry fire.

She goes from watching you talka bout something you were interested in, to glaring when you even mention love. Azula hates how weak your tears make her, she tries to avoid them. Her being a bitch all the time doesn't help.

Azula, during the wedding planning was nothing short of rude. You tries talking to her, giving her idea on how to make things more her style. She refused to listen. Why would she listen when her father wouldn't care in the slightest!?

"Mhm, yeah. Listen [Name], I understand you're sweet and you want this wedding to be about me, but I dont care."

Over time she's gone from being a bitch, to teasing you. While she doesn't like that she was forced into a relationship, she does like you. So it, in a way, evens out.

About three or four months into the marriage shes back to herself. She's back to pulling you into rooms with a cold glare...only to kiss your lips and walk away. She teases you when you see a hurt animal and run to help it.

Secretly though, she adores seeing you. She adores your truths, she adores how you value the real her. She adores every bit of you, especially when you give her a sweet smile and hold her hand. She makes fun and pushes you around(hopefully you know she doesn't always mean to be rude) but in reality, seeing you just makes her day.

Of course there is the darker side of things.

"Stop crying. I'm not apologizing, you know I'm right. So what if I lied!? I haven't hurt you."

That's what she doesn't understand. Why would you feel empathy for others? She could understand her, yourself, family(barely), even friends. She doesn't get why you'd feel back about someone that doesn't matter. These ideals of her strain your relationship. You fight, and she refuses to admit her wrongdoings. Anymore at least.

She needs time to understand she's done something wrong. You need time to calm down and see things from her eyes. She was forced into a relationship, no matter how close you two were. It was still against her will. Taking away her freedom, taking away her ability to choose you as her forever.

The two of your fight a lot, and you're both hurtful sometimes. That doesn't mean either of you loslve the other any less. It just means you don't agree. She takes time to learn you, see what to and not to tease you about. You take time to see what she sees, to see her fears and anger.

Your relationship does mend, it take a year or two, but it mends. And you two come out stronger than ever. I mean, it's not like either of you have the choice to leave the other.

Sorry if you didn't like it. I tried, but I didn't fully understand what you meant. Also sorry it's short. I have a lot of Azula requests and I didn't realise how much yall like her.

[mimisempai]

You're the only light in my blurry world 1/10

Summary

After a serious motorcycle accident several years ago, Aziraphale is unable to recognize the faces of people he loves, let alone those he doesn't know. 

But when he met Crowley for the first time, he's able to see his beautiful face with absolute clarity.

Though, because of the way he keeps looking at him, Crowley thinks Aziraphale doesn't like him.

Notes

Once again, I don't know what I'm doing, but I'm doing it anyway, and with conviction.

Masterpost for this fic : here

Crowley scratched the back of his head and sighed. 

He had that strange feeling again that he had had for several weeks. 

He felt watched.

"Crowley!"

He looked up at the person who had just called out to him and saw that it was Muriel, one of his new friends.

"Do you have to work later? We'd like to have dinner together so you can get to know us."

Crowley put his brush on the easel and replied with a smile, "Works for me!"

"Great."

Muriel walked away to a small group of people outside the hall door, and as soon as Muriel were gone, Crowley had the same strange feeling.

Ever since the day he'd arrived at the art class for adults, he'd felt someone watching him. The thing was, he knew who it was, but he hadn't dared bring it up yet. He was still new here and didn't want to draw more attention to himself. At least not that much.

After graduating as an astrophysicist and working several temporary jobs, Crowley had finally been hired on a permanent basis at the city's planetarium and was happy to finally settle down.

After adjusting to his new situation, he began looking for an art class, wanting to fulfill his second dream after studying stars and planets, to learn how to draw and paint.

After his father left her for another woman, it was his mother who raised him, sacrificing everything for Crowley's studies. Obviously, the family budget didn't allow for extras like an art class, and Crowley had waited patiently.

Three weeks ago he had discovered that there was an evening art class not far from his home and had applied. So far he'd enjoyed it. The art teacher knew how to make his class interesting and the group consisted of pretty nice people.

Except for...

**********

"Even though it's the middle of the year, I'm happy to welcome a new member to the class."

Crowley stepped into the middle of the group of about twenty people, all seated in front of easels, and approached the art teacher, who continued, "Anthony Crowley, you may introduce yourself, okay?"

Crowley turned to the small group and said with a friendly smile, "Hello everyone, my name is Anthony Crowley, but I prefer to be called Crowley. I started working at the planetarium a few weeks ago where I give lectures and teach classes for 8-15 year olds. I-"

He was rudely interrupted by a crash and turned his head to where the noise had come from to see that an easel had been knocked over as one of the class members had just gotten up. The first thing that struck Crowley was the slightly old-fashioned way the guy was dressed, especially the curly blond hair that formed a kind of halo around his head. 

As the other members of the class chuckled slightly, the clumsy fellow who had dropped his easel stammered, "Ah... uh... sorry, I'm sorry."

Instead of sitting down, however, he remained standing, glaring at Crowley, who wondered what the hell was wrong with him.

Probably another lunatic.

"So, Crowley, what can you tell us about yourself?"

Crowley snapped out of his thoughts and forgot about the clumsy guy as he replied, "It's a small group, everyone will know me soon enough."

The professor laughed and replied, "You're not wrong," then pointed to an empty seat two rows in front of the odd guy. 

As Crowley sat down, his seatmate asked, "Wow, your hair color is just gorgeous. Do you dye it yourself?"

Crowley smiled and shook his head before answering, "No, it's a friend who dyes my hair."

"Oh, could you give me their number?"

"I'll give you the address of her hair salon."

The person in front of him turned around and asked, "Why are you taking these classes?"

"I've always wanted to draw."

"That's cool!"

Then they turned to the one who had asked Crowley about his hair and smirked as they said, "Don't tell me you want the same hair color as Crowley?"

"Hell no!"

"I'm relieved because it wouldn't suit you at all. My little blonde darling."

"Hey!"

However, during the happy conversation, Crowley had a strange feeling.

Like he was being watched.

He turned to see the guy who'd dropped his easel staring at him again, then looking away as soon as their eyes met.

**********

The stares had not stopped since it happened three weeks ago.

As he joined his new friends, Crowley couldn't help but look back.

Eric, seeing this, put his hand on his arm and asked, "Hey, what are you looking at?"

Crowley shook his head and replied, "Nothing, I just remembered something weird." He then shook his head and continued, "So, what were you talking about?"

Muriel looked sad and replied, "It breaks my heart to know you weren't listening.

Crowley laughed and replied, "Sorry, sorry."

Still, he could feel the stare and it was beginning to annoy him a lot.

"Crowley?"

Crowley replied to his new friends, "Look, I have to do something, so I'll meet you at the restaurant, okay?"

"Ah? Okay, let's go then!"

"See ya!"

Aziraphale, packing his things into his bag, didn't see Crowley coming toward him and was startled when he called out, "Hey, mate! What's the matter, you got a problem with me?"

Aziraphale, more than a little surprised, stammered, "C-Crowley?"

The red-haired man replied in annoyance, "What? You've been watching me since I arrived in this class, but we don't know each other, do we?"

Aziraphale blushed slightly, said nothing and lowered his head, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to, I..."

He looked up again and felt the other man's expression soften, but Crowley insisted in a more inquisitive tone, "So, there's a problem? You got something against me?"

Aziraphale shook his head quickly and replied, "No, no! Really nothing!"

"Then if it's nothing, stop looking at me like that! It makes me super uncomfortable."

Aziraphale didn't have time to react because Crowley had turned on his heel and was walking away toward the art classroom door.

Now alone, Aziraphale muttered, "I guess he hates me, and I can't even tell him why I was looking at him..."

*********

"James! I'm here!"

Aziraphale arrived in front of his lover, who tossed him a motorcycle helmet, which he grabbed.

James planted a light kiss on his lips before saying, "Put it on."

Then, after putting on his own helmet, he climbed on the motorcycle and said to Aziraphale, "Climb behind me and hold me tight."

Aziraphale, with butterflies in his stomach as he always did when he was with his lover, climbed on the bike, pressed himself against James' broad back, and wrapped his arms around his waist.

He asked, "Where are we going today?

His lover put his hands on Aziraphale's and playfully replied, "You'll know when we get there."

Aziraphale remembered the wind as the motorcycle accelerated, the sun on his face, his chest against his lover's back.

After that, all he could remember was hearing his name called out in James' voice.

A pool of blood beneath his hand.

The hard asphalt on his cheek.

And then, as his eyes closed, his last memory was the panicked face of his lover.

**********

Aziraphale sighed as he left the art classroom.

"If I had known it would be the last time I saw his face..."

The first thing he remembered when he regained consciousness after the accident three years ago was his mother's voice.

**********

"Mom?"

Then he'd felt his mother's arms wrap around his shoulders and hug him as she cried against him.

When his mother stepped back, he finally opened his eyes after a few moments and asked, "It's weird...why is everything I see blurry?"

His mother stroked his cheek and replied, "That's normal, you were hit on the head and unconscious for three days. But you'll be fine now."

She got up to call the nurse.

"Mom, wait! What about James?"

He didn't see his mother's expression as she approached the bed. She started to speak, but tiredness was the strongest, so Aziraphale couldn't fight it and closed his eyes.

**********

Aziraphale shook his head and said to himself, "There's no point in dwelling on the past."

Suddenly, the ringing of his cell phone brought him out of his thoughts for good.

He took his phone out of his pocket and saw that he had a text message from someone whose number he didn't know.

He slid his thumb across the screen, and as Aziraphale read the text, his heart leapt.

Hi Zira!

Long time no see!

I hope you haven't forgotten me!

I'm sorry about what happened. 

Are you free? I'd like to have dinner with you.

James..

Received 7:00 p.m.

Aziraphale began typing a reply.

No, I'm busy right now.

Then he deleted, retyped, and finally decided not to reply. Before putting his phone back in his pocket, he looked at James' message again.

You haven't forgotten me, I hope!

Aziraphale muttered, "How could I?"

Then, seeing the front of his bookshop in the distance, he breathed a sigh of relief.

It had been an emotional evening between the Crowley discussion and his ex contacting him after three years of silence, so he was looking forward to being home soon.

He murmured, "First thing I need is a drink."

Feeling that there were only unfriendly faces around him, Aziraphale did not really ease up until he walked through the door of his haven of peace.

As soon as he closed the front door behind him, he put his things in a corner. Then he went into the back room of the bookshop, poured himself a glass of sherry and turned on the gramophone before sinking into his old armchair.

After a sip, enjoying the burn of the alcohol in his throat, he exhaled slowly and closed his eyes.

Aziraphale tried to remember James' face, but in the end, another face appeared.

Crowley's, of course.

He ran his hand over his face, cursing his karma.

An ex-lover who seemed to want to reconnect, but whose face he couldn't remember, and for whom his heart no longer beat.

An angry potential love interest who was the only face he recognized and who made him feel things he hadn't felt in a long time.

He took another sip.

"I'm doomed."

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝

Ineffable Husbands masterlist : here