#Like other items from the same order showed up in 3 days. This one took like 2 weeks.

[whatireading]

All these years resenting my birth, of wishing for the nothingness of having never been in conceived, and

[wooahaeruby]

Chapter 13: Sky Walking

Chapter Word Count: 5,435

TW

1) Mouse has Trauma 2) Use of drugs. Smoke weed everyday. Leafblower Special. 3) Mouse disassociates for a while 4) Mentions of ODing / Childhood Trauma / Cops suck in this story. (read at your own discretion) 5) Mouse and Someone else in SVT trauma bond. 6) At the beginning, Mouse goes through the numb depression motions.

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You didn’t get a single moment of rest. Each time you closed your eyes, the feeling of dried blood that you knew wasn’t there clung to your hands and the image of Mingyu’s body on the table as you gave him CPR flashed. The continuous beating line on the heart monitor gave you reassurance as the time passed. 

Just as Jeonghan said, Jihoon and him switched off duties of coming to check on Mingyu and change out bags of saline when the previous one was finished. At some point you gave up counting how often they came, staying curled up in your seat, glad to have the blanket wrapped around you in the cold room. Both had asked if you needed anything and each time you shook your head, falling deeper and deeper into your thoughts. 

He was going to be okay, you had a good feeling in your chest about it. He��d wake up and try to play everything off and act like he was fine when he was in a lot of pain. He’d complain that everyone’s cooking was subpar compared to his but would eat every last piece of it to make them happy. Maybe he’d let you cook for him and show off what you thought were pretty good cooking skills to give him well rounded meals during his recovery. Mingyu would need all the rest he could get before even stepping foot out of the house, knowing they’d take him back to the house to recover comfortably in his own bed. 

When the door opened next, you turned, thinking you’d see Jeonghan since Jihoon had checked in last, but Seungcheol stood at the doorway with a paper bag in one hand and a tray with two coffee cups in the other. He had changed from the suit he had on last night into dark jeans and an oversized gray sweater. Sitting up, you gave him a curious look but didn’t voice any question. He lumbered his way to the seats still across the bed from you and slid into one, placing the items he brought on one of the other chairs. 

“It’s six in the morning.” His deep voice was full of fatigue, the bags under his eyes dark. He didn’t look like he slept. “Seokmin grabbed your coffee order and a bagel.” Seungcheol lifted the paper bag and pulled one bagel out before handing the bag to you. Once the bag was in your hand, he took the coffee cup and passed it over. Hesitantly, you released Mingyu’s hand, you didn’t let go of it once throughout the night since you sat down. 

The hot cup felt amazing against your cold fingers. Taking a quick sip, it burned your mouth but it was too good to stop. The warmth spread through your limbs and your shoulders relaxed. 

“Seokmin put in that you both were sick and needed a few days off. Wonwoo manufactured some doctor’s notes.” 

“Thank you.” 

He grunted in response, drinking his own cup, letting his eyes land on Mingyu. “Anything?” 

With a quick shake of your head, you pulled your knees to your chest, using one hand to move the blanket around you. “Nothing. He’s breathing fine, he took two units of blood in total, heart rate hasn’t faltered all night.” 

“Did you get any sleep?” 

Pausing, you were going to answer but closed your mouth, chewing on your bottom lip. “I could ask the same of you.” 

“Touche…”

“Did anyone else?” You asked, sipping from your cup once more. 

Seungcheol sighed out a heavy breath. “Most of them passed out from exhaustion. Seokmin fell asleep in a chair, Soonyoung was curled up on the floor with all the couch pillows with Chan knocked out last I checked. Vernon took Seungkwan back to the penthouse once they left so hopefully they got some sleep. Joshua, Jeonghan, Wonwoo, and Jihoon are all passed out on the couches we have up in the office. I think Minghao and Junhui went back to the penthouse too, but I doubt they got any sleep.” 

“Does this…” You didn’t know how to word it. “Does stuff like this happen often?” 

“What, getting shot? We try not to make it a constant thing.” A smidge of humor was in his tired words. “Last one was Jihoon about a year ago. He was helping break up a fight in Ruby and the asshole had a gun and it misfired in the struggle.”  

Forcing out a breath, you nodded, shaking the mental image away. You thought of Jihoon in a similar situation as Mingyu last night and your already lost appetite was gone tenfold. Trying your best to mask the discomfort, you drank the coffee and focused back on Mingyu’s breathing. It seemed Seungcheol was doing the same, nibbling on a piece of the bagel he got and sipping his coffee. It wasn’t often you two ended up in the same place alone, usually someone was accompanying you at the house. 

“Oh-” You just remember that he literally had you brought over last night to speak with him. Seungcheol perked up. “Why was I needed last night?” 

Blinking a few times, his face contorted, mouth slightly agape, eyebrows furrowed together, and a confused look on his face. “Uh- Oh! Right, I was going to inform you about the Gala. It’s in a month. Jeonghan said he had some things planned and would handle everything before you were brought to the house to get dressed before we all leave.” 

“I feel like I should be scared of whatever he has planned.” You snort out a quiet laugh. 

“Personally, I would be scared.” 

You both shared a short laugh that mellowed into silence again. Though you never touched the bagel, you continued with the coffee, hoping it would keep you awake as long as possible. 

Many of the guys visited throughout the day. Seungcheol had left, saying he had a few things to get done upstairs and to call if you needed anything. Jeonghan only came in once to change a saline bag and push a few vitamins to aid in the healing process. He said he’d be back later and ruffled your hair like he did the previous night. 

First it was Chan and Wonwoo who mostly sat with you and brought up stories that Mingyu was in. Chan spoke about him like he was part superhero and Wonwoo played along, making the story out bigger than it probably was. They stayed for a good hour and you enjoyed the company to fill the void that was building inside of you. Chan had given Mingyu’s hand a big squeeze and smiled, but his voice wavered when he asked for him to wake up soon, that it was getting too quiet without his loud, boisterous personality awake. Wonwoo had kept any comments to himself, but you saw him bow his head in prayer before leaving with Chan. 

Seungkwan and Vernon only stopped in for a bit, clearly exhausted but dressed for whatever they needed to get done for the day. These two were relatively quiet in their visit, asking if you got any sleep which you brushed off and they didn’t give that straight of an answer when you asked in return. Vernon made a comment that they’d visit once they were done later in the day. Both had asked you to give them a call if anything was to change regarding Mingyu’s condition, which you easily agreed to. 

The largest horde was Soonyoung barging in in the afternoon, followed by Seokmin, Minghao, Junhui, and Jihoon, but the last man was really coming in for his given task. Junhui had made food for everyone earlier and brought extra for you, saying he heard from Chan that you were staying until Mingyu was awake. Though you took the container of food, you only placed it aside, letting it join the bagel bag from earlier, saying that you’d eat it later when you got hungry. It was the best white lie you could tell at this time, not wanting to worry them too much. Many of them were dressed in what you assumed was their ‘ dark side’ attire, thick boots, dark clothes, all the works.

Seokmin was eyeing you a good majority of the time he was there but he didn’t say anything if you looked bad. You more than likely did look disheveled, your lip was bitten to the point it bled earlier but it dried over and hurt. He only said he’d come back later to keep you company, giving you a side hug before they slipped out one by one. 

Then it was quiet again. You were left alone again to your own devices and thoughts. Truthfully you couldn’t think straight, images and memories bounced around your mind, they were close to sending you into a downward spiral but you willed away the mental torment to the best of your abilities. You didn’t feel hungry, at this point you didn’t even feel tired. Your limbs were numb and no matter if you tucked further in the blanket, you were still cold. 

You didn’t even realize Jeonghan was in the room until he placed his hand on your shoulder and you snapped back to reality, flinching at his touch. 

“Ay- Wow, it’s just me, Mouse.” He pulled his hand back and slid a chair up beside you. “Did you not hear me come in? I said hi.” 

“Sorry- Sorry…” Sighing, you placed a hand over your chest, feeling the fast pace of your heart. “I was zoning out- I- Sorry.” 

Jeonghan leaned in, tucking some strands of hair behind your ear to get a better look at your face. His fingers were warm against your cool skin and you couldn’t help but lean into the feeling. Gently he held your face, watching as your eyes fluttered closed and you sighed out a soft breath.

“You should get some sleep, Mouse. He isn’t going to be gone when you wake up.” 

Those words had your eyes snapping open and you straightened up, shaking your head. “I can’t- No. I can’t fall asleep.” You pushed the words to come out, digging your nails into your palms. You couldn’t fall asleep. You wouldn’t let yourself rest until he was awake and coherent enough to understand what was going on. 

Jeonghan sagged in his seat, stretching his arm over your shoulders to bring you close to his side. “Will you at least eat then? Just a little? I think ‘Gyu would be a little mad knowing that you didn’t eat because you wanted to wait up for him.” 

You whined and rested your head on his shoulder, a pout on your lips. “How dare you use manipulation and guilt tripping on me.” 

“Ah~ But are you going to eat? Junhui makes really good spicy noodles. Even lowered the heat intensity since he doesn’t know your tolerance.” 

“...Fine.” 

Reaching for the container, you pulled it into your lap, glad he provided some utensils, and under Jeonghan’s watch, you ate. It was good, really good and the spice was able to warm your frigid body enough. You let Jeonghan hold onto you, sapping the warmth he provided and listened to his quiet humming. Though at some points it was hard to eat, you swallowed enough down to satisfy the man beside you before closing it and placing the rest aside for later. 

It was nice having Jeonghan beside you. He provided a peaceful lull in the ache in your chest and settled the unruly thoughts that plagued your mind. He didn’t seem like one to judge you, maybe only when teasing you did he feel the need. Though annoying at times, his presence was enjoyable and always entertaining at the end of the day. He was already ready to listen when you complained over text and seemed like a shoulder to cry on when needed. Weird to think, but he was one of the people that felt like home along with Seokmin. 

The two of you sat, side by side, Jeonghan kept you close, letting himself take moments to rest his eyes. For what felt like hours, no one disturbed the stillness here. All that was heard was the sound of Mingyu and Jeonghan’s breathing and the occasional beep from a machine. Jeongahn was definitely asleep on your shoulder - not that you minded, he worked hard last night – and your eyes were getting irritated from no reset. 

Your eyes were focused on a pulled thread from the blanket Mingyu was tucked in with. Pulling it was a dumb idea, but the itch under your skin begged you to just tug it and rip it off. For a second you thought you were going to lose it, it had been too long since you stayed up all night, you weren’t a teenager anymore. 

While staring, you swore you saw Mingyu’s hand twitch. Refocusing your attention on the man, relief flooded through you when you saw his eyebrow twitch. Quickly you started to pat at Jeonghan’s leg, brushing his arm off your shoulder to stand and lean over the bed. Jeonghan was quick to react, bleary eyes blinking away any sleep that he could in case it was an emergency. He groggily voiced some concern but you didn’t hear anything. 

Mingyu’s eyes were starting to peel open, grimacing at the harsh lights of the room bleeding in through his cracked open eyes. You took his hand in both of your own, your heart beating so fast it might have you pass out. 

“Hey…hey, bud…” You said so softly, brushing some hair from his face when he turned his head. Tears were threatening to pour out of your eyes. A sound grumbled out of him and you cooed at him, a wobbly smile spreading across your lips. “It’s okay, ‘Gyu…”

He cursed when he tried to move some more but you quickly soothed him, placing one hand on his clothed chest to settle him. When his eyes fully opened, he took in his surroundings properly, sighing out a complaint of pain through his nose. Jeonghan had gotten up to round the bed and view Mingyu from the other side. 

“What-” His voice was hoarse and he tried to clear his throat but it didn’t help much. “How long have I been out?” 

“Almost twenty-four hours,” Jeonghan’s voice was just as soft when answering, a tight lipped smile was holding back the emotions he wouldn’t let spill over. “You scared us all half to death.” 

“ ‘M sorry.” He murmured out, but you only laughed, pushing his hair back. 

“No need to apologize, as long as you were here, that’s all that matters.” 

You stayed until he was coherent enough to ask for food and complained that beer was the best medicine. Both you and Jeonghan called everyone and they dropped everything they were doing to rush to Mingyu’s bedside. When he was in loving, safe hands, you asked Seungcheol for someone to drive you home, preferably not any of the guys since they wanted to be beside their brother. 

When you entered your apartment, you crashed hard. You couldn’t be bothered to change before crawling into the confines of your blankets and passed out. It was one of the best-worst sleeps of your life, you were happy to be asleep but terrified of the ongoing thoughts that haunt your dreams. You slept for twelve hours, it startled you when you saw the time on your phone. Seokmin and Jeonghan had sent text messages that only increased in volume the longer you didn’t reply. As you stared confused at your phone, a call came in from Jeonghan and you swiped to answer. 

“Hello?” 

“ Jesus, did you just wake up? You left over twelve hours ago, I was worried something happened.” 

Rubbing your eyes with one hand, you curled up on your side, yawning. “Yeah, I passed out once my head hit the pillow. I guess I was more tired than I felt.” 

“ Hmm, well Mingyu wants you back here to keep him company. If nothing changes by tomorrow night, he is begging to go home so we might take him back up to the house.” 

You nodded but remembered he couldn’t see you, and verbalized your ‘ okay’. He went on to say he’d be there in half an hour to pick you up and said goodbye. 

Jeonghan was true to his words in allowing Mingyu to go home. You were thankful he was alright despite the tremendous pain and eager to sleep in his own bed that was big enough for him and his long limbs. That’s how you found yourself seated in the back of Minghao’s SUV with Mingyu’s head on your lap. Seokmin had called shotgun and now it was the four of you hearing the injured man complain each time there was a pothole or bump in the road. Many of the others had work to tend to and would meet up back at the house later. You messaged Wonwoo to let him know you guys were on the way so he was prepared to help lug Mingyu to his room upon arrival. 

Really, getting him into the car was easy somehow, but getting him out of the car? He was whining like a baby and protesting whenever someone moved too fast. It was his stupid idea to lay across the backseats, it would have been easier to drop the backseats and lay him flat in the back with some pillows and padding to make it easier to get him out. When he was finally standing and huffing out tired breaths to compensate for the spent energy, it took Seokmin and Wonwoo to slowly walk him through the house and get him into bed. 

You trailed behind with a bag full of his things slung over your shoulder that another member brought yesterday. Wonwoo pushed Mingyu’s door open and you stopped at the threshold, not wanting to break the barrier of personal quarters. Jeonghan’s room was the only other place outside of the office in the house that was a more private space. The interior was a mix of black and white, medium-light colored wood as accents to the scheme. His bed was huge, probably a King-bed of some type, it wouldn’t surprise you if it was custom made exactly for him. He had a gaming set up in the corner, a few monitors and you would have laughed at the bright blue dog-ear headset. 

“Mouse, you can come in.” Mingyu called from where he sat on his bed, taking a moment before moving any more. 

“Uh- right. Yeah.” Shifting from foot to foot for a moment, you stepped inside and placed his bag at the foot of his bed. “Do you need anything?” 

With a shake of his head, he smiled and his shoulders shook as he laughed silently. “I’ll be okay. And thanks for everything, guys.” He said to Seokmin, Wonwoo, and Minghao but his eyes landed on you once more. “And thank you, Mouse. You helped a lot from what Jihoon and Vernon told me.” 

Mingyu got into bed with more ease than getting him up from the bed back at the warehouse. Wonwoo pulled the covers over him but you fussed a bit, making sure his phone was placed on his nightstand in easy reach and asking one last time if he needed something. He brushed you off and sent you out of the room with the rest, saying to wake him up when food was made. 

You had stepped out onto the back patio after parting from Mingyu and found solace under an umbrella to hide from the sun but enjoy the hot air. Being here at the house was one of the only times you could enjoy the outdoors without the constant noise of the busy city streets bothering you. Oftentimes you wished you could afford a home outside of the concrete jungle you lived in to have solitude and room to breathe truly fresh air. 

“Oh- Mouse, hey.” Vernon’s voice found its way to your ears and you turned to see him exit the back sliding doors. “Mingyu is home then, good.” 

“Mmm, yeah, he is probably knocked out in his room.” The response hummed out of you. “What are your plans?” 

“Ah-” He paused, mouth wide open and averted his gaze, trying to think of a good answer, but it was clear none came. “Honestly…I was going to smoke a bowl and stare at the ceiling for a while.” 

That sounded amazing after the last couple of days…

“Vernon,” You scratched the back of your neck and puffed out a breath. “Can I join you?” 

He didn’t bother hiding the surprise that spread across his features and one eyebrow raised high. “Are you sure?” 

“Yeah, I think I need it.” 

With one more moment of hesitation, he shrugged and walked towards one of the sheds with a little bounce to his step. “If we get in trouble, it’s your idea.” 

Chuckling quietly as you trailed behind, you nodded. “Got it, I’m just ready to get higher than a kite.” 

As Vernon threw the door open to the shed, he spread his arms wide and spun around, walking backwards until his knees hit the back of the blanket covered couch at the far end of the building and sunk into it. “Welcome to DJ Leafblower’s Sanctuary. Very few are allowed in and when they do get invited, they leave relaxed.” 

It was a pretty small space but it was dark and comforting. It smelled strong of weed but that only added to the hippie vibe. He reached over to hit a button and the small area came to life with different types of colored lights and designs moving on the ceiling. Now you could see why he was going to stare at it for a while, it all made sense now.

“You make this sound like something completely different.” You closed the door behind you and crashed on the couch beside him, kicking off your slides and tucking your legs in criss-cross. “Also- DJ Leafblower? Did you name yourself that?” 

“Yes.” He said proudly and you only shook your head, laughing under your breath. 

“Whatever, let's just get this going.” 

If you tried to count on your fingers how many hits you took, you would have ten- wait…no five…everything looked a little funny. 

You don’t know where in between hits you and Vernon ended up on the cushioned, blanket covered floor, laying opposite directions but your heads beside one another. The light designs that shifted around on the ceiling were mesmerizing in your inebriated state, every time you slow-blinked they changed and you were even more fascinated by it. This was the most relaxed you’ve been in a long time and you didn’t want the feeling to end. 

“You know-” The words came out slow from Vernon, “I thought we lost him there for a moment.” 

Processing the sentence had you closing your eyes for a moment, humming back. “I couldn’t let another person die.” 

Vernon turned his head to you and you maneuvered to lay on your side, able to see his face but too unfocused to see his expression. “Another person?” He asked quietly. 

“My parents.” 

Silence filled the shed. The lights continued to move. You swore you could feel the earth move with how high you were. 

“Mouse…” Vernon sounded so…sorrowful if you had to point a word to it. “Is that why you didn’t sleep?” 

“Mhmm.” You don’t know why you were speaking about it, in your relaxed state it was too easy to just let the sob story – well, you thought of it as a sob story – spill out. “They ODed when I was a kid, like six.” 

“Fuck dude.” He sat up and turned to sit and face you. “That’s horrible.” 

You gave a quiet chuckle and shrugged. “When I saw Mingyu on the table, I had flashbacks to my parents on the floor in the living room, minus the blood and all. I kept picturing their faces on him, how lifeless they looked, how pale they looked. There was fucking needles on the ground beside their bodies. I just-” Sighing, you closed your eyes, “I couldn’t have that same feeling. I needed Mingyu to live.”  

You slowly sat up and everything around you spun for a moment. “What makes it worse? Those bastard cops, the ones that came when I called 911, brushed it under the rug because who wants the fact that a cop ODed with his stay at home wife while their daughter was sleeping written all over your police station and the small town news.” 

Vernon looked like he didn’t know how to respond, but the words continued to spill out. “I told them that I saw the guy's face that sold it to them but they never believed me, saying I was just making it up. Who the fuck makes that shit up? I saw the drug dealer that sold them laced stuff and no one cared. My family, god those assholes too, didn’t want the fucked up kid so I went into foster care, which sucked by the way. I tried to reach out to them but they told me never to contact them again. I bounced around from small town to small town for years after that. I got a scholarship to the university here in the city and I never looked back. I’ve had this fucked up sense that it was all my fault, like they turned to drugs because I wasn’t a perfect kid.” 

There was a smile on your face the whole time like the entire story was some kind of joke. You reached out and lit the put out joint, taking a long drag. “I learned later that they blacked out all and any information that my dad reached out to his commanders for help. The entire police report from the day I found them was blacked out too. Sick fucking bastards.” Every word that left you was said with hate. You took another long drag and handed it over to Vernon who gladly accepted it. He met your eyes, the expression he wore soft and in no way filled with pity. “If I ever see the guy that sold those drugs to them, Vernon…I swear I’ll kill him myself…” 

Vernon’s mind was fuzzy but he nodded, seemingly a mutual understanding of the feeling. “My sister and I…our parents were killed in a hit and run when we were young.” Hearing him start, your attention, while slow to focus, was drawn to him, watching as he stared up at the ceiling. “Because it was local gang shit and the cops were lazy as hell, we didn’t get any justice. We were sent off to our grandmother’s but she was old and couldn’t really take care of us. There wasn’t enough money so I stole to get by. Really I wanted to shield my sister from it.” 

“Is she-?” 

“She is going to college this year. When I joined SVT a few years back, I made them promise to help me pay for her education and I’d do what they needed. Mainly blackmail, weed growing and sales, shit like that. I’m not doing stuff like Chan, Minghao, and them. I’m mainly on Wonwoo’s side with work.” 

You nodded, laying back down beside him, letting your eyes follow the lights on the ceiling. 

“If I knew who those gang members were, I’d kill them in a heartbeat right now and I’m not the most coordinated with a gun.” Vernon let out a small huff of a laugh. “But we always have someone with my sister even if she is just being watched, if anything was to happen to her, I’d have justice as quick as I could. I’d raise hell and heaven to make sure she is resting in peace. I hope you find the guy that did it, it's an eye for an eye at that point.” 

“Thanks for not thinking I’m crazy.” 

“Crazy?” Vernon let out a loud laugh, shoulders shaking to the point where his arm knocked against yours. “We are laying in a shed where I smoke a fuck ton of weed on a property that Seungcheol built and prospered with mainly mafia money. Mouse, we are in a fucking action movie and honestly it gets boring.”

“Has anyone seen Vernon?” Seungkwan called through the living room, frowning. “I can’t find him.” 

The sun had set and almost all of the members were back at the house. He had gone in and checked on Mingyu who was knocked out, tucked snuggly under the comforter. Seungkwan had gone to Vernon’s room to hang out but came up short. He didn’t get any text messages that Vernon was leaving the property. 

“I swear you are usually attached to the hip,” Soonyoung shuffled around the kitchen, laughing at him. “Have you checked the shed?” 

Jeonghan entered the living room, looking at the group of members littering the area. “Have any of you seen, Mouse?” 

“No idea. Usually Seokmin knows where she is but he went back to the city for something. I haven’t really seen her since we got Mingyu into bed.” Minghao was lazied on the couch, a book hovering above his head as he scanned the pages. 

“I’m going to check the shed.” Seungkwan huffed, having a feeling that none of them would be of any help. “I’ll let you know if Mouse is in there.” 

Turning on his toes, he jogged out the back door and towards DJ Leafblower’s shed. He couldn’t see anything inside with the blocked out windows but a quick pull of the door gave him his answer. 

Mouse and Vernon were sitting back against the foot of the couch, heads leaned back as they stared at the ceiling. A blanket was thrown over their legs but the cloud of smoke that left the small building gave him a clear answer to the current state they were in. 

“No, all I’m saying is that if you want a really good bowl of soup, you need to let me cook..” Mouse rambled off and Vernon nodded along, “I make amazing soup, Vernon. I’m telling you.” 

“Nah, nah, I believe you, but soup is so…overrated.” 

Mouse gasped and slapped her hand against his arm. “ Take it back .” 

“You both are idiots.” Seungkwan sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Vernon high is bad enough.” 

Both Mouse and Vernon lifted their heads and beamed at him. Truthfully his heart melted a little. They looked like little kids when their favorite person came into the room. 

“Seungkwan!” Vernon waved his hand and motioned for him to join them. “Kwan, Kwan, come tell Mouse the thing you were telling me about. About Jeonghan.” 

Seungkwan slapped a hand to his face and sighed once more. Of course he remembers that now. “No, Nonnie, I’m not going to talk about that while both of you are smoking.” 

“Why not?” Mouse questioned, resting her head on Vernon’s shoulder. “I wanna know the tea on Jeonghan.” 

He stepped inside and shut the door, pulling out his phone to send Jeonghan a text that they were in the shed, and sat down across from the two. “Because the tea shouldn’t be talked about when your head is in the clouds.” 

She whined, pouting. “That’s dumb.” 

“No, you are for smoking whatever concoction of weed Vernon had on hand.”

“The Leaf Blower special.” Vernon laughed.

Seungkwan mockingly muttered the words under his breath but leveled them both with a judgemental gaze. “Are you guys hungry? If you come inside, we can get you some of the chicken tenders Mingyu keeps in the freezer.”

“Tendies sound amazing.” Mouse giggled, “Do you have other trash food?” 

He was going to die by the end of the night because of them. “There are probably some pizza rolls and french fries in there. I think Shua brought home two dozen cinnamon rolls too.” 

“Seungkwan, I’d kiss you right now but I feel like jelly.” Mouse was looking at him like he was a literal god among men. 

“Please do not,” He started, continuing to talk under his breath but didn’t realize how loud he actually was, “Jeonghan wouldn’t be happy about that.” 

She frowned, confusion twisting across her face. “Why would he be mad about that?” 

Vernon grinned. “Because Jeonghan like likes you, Mouse.” 

“Oh for fucks sake-” 

“Wait- What?” 

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[wandanatss]

heart in hand - chapter one;

things haven't been the same since you came into my life

summary: Summer of 1995 finds you in a cafe with a new-to-town Natasha Romanov. Little do you know, this day is going to change your life.

warning(s): swearing, slight mentions of guns & bullying.

word count: 1,087 words

author's note: i don't have access to the app i use to make covers/headers/dividers for my fics, so this canva one i threw together literally five minutes ago looks good enough. the dividers i used are by @cafekitsune. reblogs would help <3 i'm open to constructive criticism! i especially hope that one anon who helped a lot earlier likes it!

It all began in the summer of ‘95, in a little shop north of town. You sat there every day for want of something to do, someone to talk to. Being the friendless nerd was fine during the school year, but in the summer you always shifted from being alone to lonely. 

Your fingers tapped out an errant beat on the countertop, and you hummed a mindless tune. Your eyes droved over the menu as though your were trying to find something you wanted; as though you hadn’t already memorized it in your countless trips to the shop. In the end, though, you picked your usual - a sandwich, a doughnut, and a Coke. Picking the items up off of the counter once you got them, you sat at the only empty table there - a two-seater near the very back, where no one could see you. Figures. Invisible everywhere in the world, it seemed.

As you started to munch on the sandwich, interspersed with sips of your drink, your eyes watched the windows. Maybe you’d have your ‘movie moment’, where someone walked in that you fell in love with. Maybe it would be the person of your dreams. You looked down for a moment to pick up the cup, and within those few seconds, the door opened and a bell jingled. You looked up.

Y/n: I don’t know, it was fate or something. This absolute bombshell of a girl walked in. Her coppery-red hair tumbled over her shoulders, her eyes were bright, and she had the perfect red lip. She wore a thin white shirt, clinging to her with sweat. Her shorts were blue, and truly made her look like she had legs for days. When she ordered and got her food, she just wandered around for a minute before she saw me. Saw the seat in front of me. She smiled, asking if she could sit. Of course, I agreed. Neither of us knew it yet, but it was the start of something truly iconic. The girl, of course, was Natasha Romanov. We were both seventeen at the time.

Excerpt from ‘Mic in Hand, Heart in Throat’ by Kat S. Releasing 1 May 2028.

You introduced yourself, and started to make small talk about the weather – sweat-soaked Natasha’s body was a sight to see, and under the A/C breeze, her hair fluttered around her face. You were flushed, but you could pass it off to the heat, too. As Natasha waved over a waitress and placed her own order (a strawberry milkshake and a sandwich), you took the time to observe her.

She had her bicycle keys in her pocket, and two bracelets hanging from her arm. One was beaded, with the little alphabet charms reading N A T in different colours. The other was a few simple strings wound together and tied, giving the effect of a young child having made it. Now that you were closer to her, you could see the bottom of her hair bleached and cool-toned, showing her having dyed it blue a while back.

“Y/n? Do you want something too?” asked Natasha, a silent smirk in her eyes. She knew what you were doing.

Eventually, once the waitress was gone, you and Natasha struck up an easy flowing conversation. She confessed that she had biked here in the heat to get out of town, have her own ��summer experience’. She was new. That explained why she hadn’t been in high school with you. You smiled and told her all about the high school she’d likely be joining, and joked about how she should make it a point to stay away from you. It would be social suicide, you explained.

Natasha turned slightly away at the comment, something catching her eyes, but looked back with a frown on her face. 

“I think people should be lucky to know you, Y/n. You’re a good – a good friend.”

Through the chat you have with her, you discover that not only can she play the guitar, but also the drums. She can also sing, insanely well if the competition awards aren’t a lie, and she’s just a fucking dream. She gave you her home-phone number, and her address. Call me, she wrote on the paper napkin, like she was some kind of rogueish flirt and not a schoolgirl still in her teens.

You took the napkin home with you and pinned it onto a little board, fingers moving over the bumps in the paper where she had pressed too hard with the pen. Call me. Come over sometime. You smiled, idling near the telephone. Maybe you would call her later, you thought.

Natasha Romanov: Y/n, they were an interesting person. My first friend who wasn’t my sister. We’d both been adopted, and been the town freaks for a while. Yelena, she was all spite and rage packed into a little spitfire of a ten-year-old child. It didn’t help that she wanted to give her opinions freely. It was my job to protect her, and when that backfired, we had to move. This far into the story, you already know I wouldn’t be too cut up about it. I had my sister and my adoptive parents. End of fuckin’ story, right? And then the chapter turned. After I met Y/n that day, everything changed. I finally had a reason to stay in the new town. I had made a friend.

Excerpt from ‘Mic in Hand, Heart in Throat’ by Kat S. Releasing 1 May 2028.

As you lay in bed that night, all hot and bothered about the day you’ve had, words start to form in your mind. Fragments; not enough to be worth writing, but you can see where you’ve started to... well, you’ve started thinking up a song.

The next morning, you wake up from a rather pleasant dream to hammering on your bedroom door. 

“Wake up, kid! It’s time to go!”

Oh. It was your mother, a staunch stickler for early-birds-get-the-worm. You would’ve far preferred to sleep in, especially in the summer, but the thoughts from the previous night – the song you thought of – had finally almost fully formed in your mind. You were eager to pen it down in case you forgot, but first, to appease your mother, you showered and had some cereal. Then you were back in your room, ready to write.

She’s got blue hair and a pretty pink smile

Looks that can kill and hands in mine

She’s a girl she’s a gun she’s the newest chapter

She’s a dream and what my heart’s been chasin’ after…

lmk if you want to be added to the taglist! | fic tag

[hows-my-handwriting]

Hobie Brown Headcanons

long post ahead. will put as much as i can under the cut but i will have a.... loose table of contents.

and im not feeding you everything. i need more content to drip feed you later.

the inspo is driving me crazy but the hands are refusing to write.

the table: backstory food british animals

lmk if ppl want this to be split up into individual posts per category. cuz its l o n g

BACKSTORY:

Not based on the comics. purely my own attempt at writing his backstory and his particular villains.

Hobie's Doc Oc was a university professor pressured by Osborn's regime to produce weapons. Hobie had met the guy while crashing a university class, but nothing more than that. Octavius snapped and took the revolution to the extreme. he built a WMD and planned to use it on the city. Hobie talked octavius down and disarmed the weapon.

Hobie's lizard was his close friend and bandmate who got jealous over their lead singer's affections towards hobie. they were close friends until hobie started drifting away. curtis was bitter and never really forgave him. the final straw was when hobie returned in full, having just abandoned his spider suit. the band is back together but curtis still has hard feelings. he knew vaguely about hobie's connection with spiderman but thought that it was some kind of special deal or friendship which was just another nail in the coffin. he turns himself into the lizard and attacks hobie, demanding answers and refusing to listen.

the above is just an excuse to hurt hobie really bad >:3 i love my angst and my beating my muses up. i wanted to break his ribs.

electro was a civilian who just happened to get struck by lightning. he is the sole reason hobie has insulated all of his gear and one of the reasons all of his spikes can shoot excess electricity like one of those funky little electrode balls. hobie took one look at this guy and immediately got to work.

Kraven was a bounty hunter hired and possibly engineered by osborn and fisk to hunt down hobie. classic kraven activities. he tried to drown hobie in the thames. hobie managed to escape but couldn't breathe or eat properly for a week after the attack

hobie's ship was hauled from the local junkyard. It was originally just used as a figure head to lead the charge from the government locked dam blocking off water. it somehow survived so he uses it as his hq.

hobie is immune to his scorpion's venom after being stung so many times and stealing samples of it to build up an immunity. yes it hurt. yes it sucked. but it worked. (loosely inspired by a fanfic)

the above are not in chronological order. mostly.

FOOD:

Hobie's world doesn't have a lot of spices. it's a closed state unless importing 'important' materials like lumber, steel and other sciency stuff, food is a lower priority or just a restricted luxury. the spice trade has regressed to something like the 1600s where foreign spices are held by those in power purely as a status symbol. the common man might have access to salt, sugar and cream, but anything else- especially anything spicy- is a luxury item.

hobie would love spicy food. i just dont think he's gotten much exposure to it. day one out of e-138 he opened a bag of spicy chips in the cafeteria, touched one and exploded.

exotic/foreign fruits fall under this same category but for more legit reasons of travel and lack of safe storage. so for example: mangoes, oranges/citrus, kiwi, pomegranates.

boba would freak him the fuck out. he has no idea what those little jiggly things are and its only made worse when one of the kids inevitably shows him the hamster 'is it worth it' meme. he becomes scarred for life.

if you take too long to take a bite out of whatever you're holding and hobie is hungry, he will just lean over and take a bite out of it. sandwich? bitten. spaghetti? stolen off the fork. chocolate bar? wrapper and bar, gone.

his favorite flavor of cake is chocolate or caramel. sue me im projecting onto him

BRITISH

he holds out his pinky when holding cups. it's just an unconscious thing that turns conscious once someone calls it out. in which case he sticks it out even further

flips the police and the royal family off regularly with the one fingered or the two fingered version. will only respect the french for inventing the creative two fingered fuck you, but nothing else.

has a winter fit that is just like a pile of whatever sweaters he has and two scarves. and long socks that make the space in his tight boots even more tight. sometimes cuts off circulation to his feet.

loves going to pubs and just chatting with people. also loves picking fights with the drunk people. Particularly the irish. he thinks their accents are funny and has long arguments with them while they're both speaking absolute gibberish.

knows french but only the insults. has an arsenal of french insults he will just whip out of his back pocket and drop on someone's head.

not really a british thing but i bet he doesn't know how to ride a bike. he was a) too tall and b) not willing to get his entire skeleton rattled by riding over the cobbled streets of london.

wimpy's fan. (its like the british version of mcdonalds but less popular and less famous. according to my research).

ANIMALS

Hobie keeps pigeons. he built a little house when he was bored and was surprised to find three pigeons hiding from the rain underneath it the next day. he didn't really intend to keep them but they nested and he kept bringing them food and water. he did name the brown one hobie jr.

hobie has a cat. again, not really 'has' but rather 'it broke into his boat and wont leave'. he didn't name her because he can't think of a good one. for the longest time he had no idea she was living in his floorboards but later discovered a hole in the side of his boat and found a crawlspace just large enough for a kitten.

he is freaked out by snakes. not as in a fear of snakes. but rather in utter disbelief that they can be the size of a human person. he's read about and probably seen the average snake, about the size of an arm. but anything larger than that will make his jaw drop right off of his face

he did have a symbiote dog for a short time. the dog was badly hurt and the passive symbiote had merged with its body to try and help it. he offered it a place to stay and rest and it happily agreed. it followed him around for the short while they had together and one day went off on its own.

he still sees that dog around (affectionately named 'spider-mutt') and offers it head scratches or belly rubs but they always part ways sooner than later.

loves opossums. thinks they look funny.

part two? maybe....

might add more to this as my brain keeps turning.

[wrrrenff]

Breaking The Ice: Chapter 2

Attack on Titan / Shingeki No Kyojin Levi Ackerman x F! reader Synopsis: You couldn't stop thinking about your hook up with Levi. But it seems like he'd forgotten all about it. You decide to clear your mind at the cafe around the corner

It’s been two weeks since your little fling with Levi. You found yourself often thinking back to that day, how good he made you feel. Maybe he was doing the same. Maybe not, considering he hasn’t texted you at all since giving him your number after the sexcapade. Though you tried not to, it was hard not to dwell on it. He seemed to like it and like you. Did you read it wrong? Your head was starting to hurt from thinking too much. So you decided you needed to distract yourself. 

You layed in bed and considered doing some work on your computer but figured you’d be too distracted at home. With a huff, you got up from your bed and grabbed your bag and your laptop. You needed to get some work done so why not get it done go to the coffee shop around the corner to do it! You could use some liquid pep right about now. Opening your bedroom door on your way to leave the house you spot your roommate watching TV in the living room. 

“Hey I’m headed out for a bit.” You waited for a response but your roommate, Jean, was too into whatever show. He waved his hand at you and made a noncommittal sound. With that, you were off. You considered driving to the coffee shop before remembering how bad the parking was. So, you decided to walk instead. It was nice outside so it wasn’t an unbearable trek. 

Walking into the cafe, you’re instantly hit with the smell of fresh roasted coffee and your mood immediately gets better. You surveyed the cafe and noticed it wasn’t busy at all. Just 3 other patrons scattered across the tables. Walking up to the counter you noticed Hitch was the barista working today. She always knew what you wanted before you even ordered, much like today.

“Y/n! Let me guess…” She put a finger up to her chin. “You want an iced latte and a croissant?” You contemplated for a moment before deciding that sounded good. “I don’t understand how you can always know what I want.” Hitch chuckled a bit before waving her hands around like she was about to cast a spell “Must be my psychic abilities!” You laughed and paid for your items before taking a seat at the small table in the back corner while waiting for it all to be ready.

A few minutes went by setting up your computer and hooking it up to  the wifi before your food and drink came out. You opened one of  the documents you needed to work on. ‘I love being able to work from anywhere’ you thought as you took in your surroundings. Troubling thoughts of Levi no longer plaguing you. You needed this. 

You took a sip of your drink and looked out the window by your table for a moment, just getting lost in the world outside.

.

.

“Don’t space out too much. Someone could have stolen your stuff.” You jump a bit at the sudden voice, sounding awfully familiar. You turned your head to see who spoke, but before your brain could register anything, they spoke again. “Long time, no see y/n.”

Your eyes bugged out of your head and you choked on your drink a bit. “L-Levi! What are you doing here?” As you try to collect yourself, Levi takes a seat next to you. “What, I can’t go out and get something to drink?” he said sarcastically and nudged your leg with his. You huffed and nudged him back. You weren’t sure what else to say to the man. He basically ghosted you and just when you’re trying to clear your mind of him, he comes waltzing back in your head. So, you decide to just start back on your work and give him the cold shoulder.

The dark haired man either didn’t care that you brushed him off or didn’t notice your suddenly frosty demeanor. Instead he took this moment to observe you. It had been a while since you two were together after all. And last time, he was focused on more… pressing matters. Taking a sip of his drink he looked you over. You were very put together, although he noticed this fire in your eyes. What was that fire for, however? Was it for him? For your work? He decided not to dwell on it at the moment.

Instead, he decided he wanted to see just what was keeping you so busy right now. Subtly, he leaned closer to you, looking over your shoulder at your screen. The act definitely did not go unnoticed by you. In fact, it sent shivers down your spine, but you chose to stay quiet. As Levi looked at your screen, squinting at the mumbo jumbo on your screen. He wasn’t sure what he was looking at exactly but it seemed really professional. He was quite impressed actually, that someone as young as you was doing work like that. 

He started taking another sip of his drink, trying to think of what to ask about your job before his thoughts were interrupted by muffled laughter. He looked at you, head tilted, stoney gaze, and a quirked eyebrow. ‘Damn he looks good’ The thought appeared but you quickly moved past it. “Why are you drinking your coffee like that?” Levi’s face contorted into defensive confusion. “First of all, tea, not coffee. Second of all, drinking it like what?” You laughed a little louder now while explaining. “Like this!” You mimicked the way he was holding the mug by the rim with his wrist pointed out. He looked from you to his hand and back to you. “This is how I’ve always held my tea. The one time I tried to hold the mug by the handle, it snapped. Never held it like that again.” Looking at his deadpan face, it was taking all of your will power to hold in your laugh at how serious he was about it. 

Deciding to move on from what was apparently a touchy subject for the man, you shrugged and went back to your work. “So what is it you’re doing anyways?” Levi gestured to the screen with his mug. Even though it was really tough to stay mad at him, you decided to still act stiff. “Just working.” Levi scoffed. “Working on?” He tried. “Stuff.” You kept your eyes glued to your screen. With a sigh, Levi put down his mug and faced you. You felt his eyes on you but stayed strong. That is, until he took hold of your chair and turned you towards him, forcing you to lock eyes with the older man.

“Okay, spill it. What's up with you?” You are trying to act oblivious. “I don’t know what you mean?” He really didn’t want to deal with this right now. You were acting like a kid. But something inside him kept him from walking away from you. “Why are you ignoring me?” You wanted to laugh. He wanted to know why you’re ignoring him?? After two weeks with not even a hello from him? “I just think it’s funny you say that when you’ve been doing the same.” Levi was confused again. “What do you mean?” You rolled your eyes. “Two weeks of radio silence?” You accentuated your point by picking up your phone and shaking it a bit. Levi’s confusion intensified at that. “I have texted you. A few times, actually.” 

Now it was your turn to look confused. Wordlessly, Levi pulled out his phone and showed you his text chain with you. All texts from his gone unread. You shook your head. “This can’t be right.” You pulled up your text history and showed him there was no evidence of him reaching out. The man’s eyebrows scrunched at this. “You gave me the right number, didn’t you?” You let out a dramatic laugh. Did he think you were an idiot? Who wouldn’t know their own phone number? “Yes, of course I did! Here, see-” As you pulled up your contact info in his phone and scanned it, you realized you had accidentally mistyped the last digit.  Your stomach sank. Deflated, you avoided eye contact. You tried to change the number to the correct number without him noticing.  “It was wrong, wasn’t it?” Levi deadpanned. Shit. He caught you. Still avoiding eye contact, you nodded. You couldn't believe that the reason for his avoidance, all of the sad feelings you felt thinking he wasn’t interested in you, were all because you were dumb and didn’t double check that you gave him the right number. You wanted to crawl under a rock right now. 

“That explains a lot actually.” He sighed and finished up his tea. He then put his hand on your arm and rubbed comforting circles in it. “Listen, why don’t we just pretend that didn’t happen and start fresh, okay?” You stared at him in awe for a moment. You can’t believe after all the dramatics you just pulled, he still wanted to do this, whatever ‘this’ was, with you. You gulped. “Yeah, that sounds nice.” Levi pet your head then fiddled with his phone before slowly leaning up right to your face. Your face heated. Was he going to kiss you? You closed your eyes, ready to feel his lips on yours when instead you heard him in your ear whispering “Check your phone.” with a dark, mischievous tone before getting up and leaving.

You watched him walk out, stunned at the events that just occurred. It was like emotional whiplash. After the door shut behind him, you finally got the courage to look at your phone and saw a notification that read ‘1 New Message’. You opened the notification, smiling at what you saw, thankful that your adventures with Levi weren't over yet.

555-6781: 81 Sina Road at 9 tonight. Don’t be late.

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

Last Chapter - Next Chapter

[empressuxu]

Dear Soulmate

╭┈ • ┈ ୨୧ ┈ • ┈╮Chapter 3 ╭┈ • ┈ ୨୧ ┈ • ┈╮

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The sound of a beep alarm can be heard in a Y/n single-bedroom apartment. It was early, well early, for the late-night radio show host. Normally, she's awake by 5, but not today. No, today was a special day for her. Today was the start of a four-day date with her soulmates. 

The brothers thought it would be nice to go on a solo date with each of them to get to know each other better. Y/N, being too shy to ask them to go out herself, was more than happy to agree to the dates. After a quick rock, paper, scissors match, the order was set to Raph, Donnie, Mikey, and, lastly, Leo. 

After a quick shower and styling her hair, Y/n began to get dressed. She pulled her head through the hole of her red, tan top, making sure not to mess up her hair.  Once it was on, she slipped her legs into the opening of her jean skater skirt. She quickly threw on her leg warmer socks, followed by her red Converse. She took a glance at herself in the mirror by her desk. Smiling to herself, she felt so happy that she looked good.

She took her phone out to check the time. It was almost 4 pm, Raph should be here soon. Y/n decided to just scroll on TikTok. Before she knew it, the time was 4 pm.

A knock at her window caused her to drop her phone on her pillow. She jumped off her bed and ran to the window. Opening it, she was greeted by the sight of Raph in worn-out jeans and a red hoodie. 

“Come in, Raph I just need to get something real quick.” Y/n patted her bed. “Sit here I’ll be right back.” 

The large turtle came into her room. He took a seat on her bed, and the mattress gave a soft creak beneath his weight. His hands fidgeted in his lap, unsure of where to rest. He instantly felt out of place. Y/n's room felt so soft, and everything looked so small compared to himself. Now that he thought about Y/n, she was tiny herself. She is barely the same height as Mikey, and he is the shortest out of all of them. 

Y/n slammed open the door, looking slightly tired than when she left. “Sorry, I completely forgot where I put this.” 

Raph noticed a box in her hand with some words written on the box. Y/n hand covered most of the letters, but he noticed a spider logo on it. Y/n poured the contents of the box on her desk. Out came masks and gloves, all in four familiar colors. She picked up a red mask and a pair of gloves from the pile.

“My aunt got me some stuff to help you and your brothers fit in around the city when you're with me.” She handed him the items. “ Aunty said that the gloves will mask your hands to look like regular hands, and the mask will cast an illusion on your face so you look more human.” 

Raph put on the gloves and watched in amazement as his hand changed from three fingers to five. He walked over to the mirror in the Y/n room and put the mask on. He was in awe as his green skin turned into a normal flesh color. 

Y/n giggled to herself. She couldn't help it; he was just so cute. He was like a child watching a magician. I want to just smother him with kisses, Y/n thought to herself. 

Raph heard her giggle and couldn't help but turn red. He felt embarrassed that she saw her acting so childish but, at the same time, happy that he was the one to make her giggle. 

“Sorry for laughing, but you just look so cute.” Y/n walked over to Raph and gently cupped his face into her hand. Raph placed his hand over hers and pressed them closer to his face. Taking his action as a sign to continue, the h/c-haired girl stood on her tippy toes to bring her face closer. The large turtle chuckled at her adorable attempt to reach his height and decided to help her out. He lowered himself slightly to her level. 

Y/n blushed, not expecting his face to be so close to hers so fast. Despite her racing heart, the red-faced girl processed her actions. She placed her forehead against his own. Neither of them moved. They just enjoyed each other's company. The world seems to freeze around the two. 

Y/n could feel her heart still racing, but it felt somewhat comforting to her. She hadn't felt like this in a minute. I never thought I could feel like this again, Y/n thought to herself. It was nice to feel this feeling of excitement. The rush, the shyness of love. Y/n eyes met his, and she felt so bewitched. 

His eyes held so much adoration in them. She wondered if hers held the same if he could tell that she, too, felt the same. “These are some dangerous eyes you have there.” 

“So do you,” Raph murmured. “Raph could get lost in them for hours.” 

Y/n heart began to race harder than before. She could swear she could hear her heart racing this time. Y/n took her hands off of Raph's face, deciding it was probably for the best since they did have a date to start. 

Raph pouted, not liking that she took her hands back. He wasn't ready for her warmth to leave him. Like his brothers, they don't get a lot of physical contact from anyone but their family. They are mutants, so most times, when a human sees them, they just run or scream, but she did neither of those. 

No, she accepted them, no problem, I mean, we are going on a date. Raph thought, wondering what they did to deserve this. Not that he's complaining, no rather he was grateful for this whole thing. He just hoped that she felt the same as him. 

Y/n coughed, gaining the attention of Raph. “I thought we could make each other a bear at Teddy Bear Town. ”  Y/n nervously played with her the bows on her jean skirt. “If that sounds ok with you?” 

Raph took hold of her hand and began to walk over to her window. He turned to her and lifted her in his arms. Y/n blushed, not expecting to be so close to his face again so soon. “That sounds perfect.” He whispered to her before he jumped off the railing. 

Once on the ground, Raph placed her down. He began to walk out of the alley but was stopped by Y/n grabbing his hand. He stopped in his tracks, turning to look at the small girl, thinking something was wrong. 

Y/n, seeing him look scared, quickly sputtered, “S-so-sorry if I scared you, I didn't mean to,” She gave his hand a squeeze to calm both their nerves. Taking a deep breath, she continued,  “I  just wanted to hold your hand” 

Raph broke into a wide, toothy smile; it made his cheeks hurt, but he didn't care. She wanted to hold his hand; she wanted to touch him. He pulled her closer to his side. “Hold it as long as you want.”  He chimed, a smile still on display for her. 

“Gladly.” She chirped, pulling him out of the alley and toward their destination. They held hands the whole time, faces red and hearts beating fast but a smile that could outshine the sun on their faces. Before they knew it, they had made it to Teddy Bear Town. 

“Should we get the same bear or different ones?” Y/n asked as she picked up a red, fuzzy brown bear. 

“We should do different ones and make them wear matching outfits,” Raph exclaimed, happy to be here with someone this time. 

“Oh, that sounds cute! Let's do that.” She cheered, holding the red bear close to her chest, running off to get her bear stuffed, leaving Raph to pick up his bear. 

Raph, now alone, began to search for a bear. As he walked through the door, he began to feel slightly disappointed at the options this time around. Normally, he could find a bear so easily, but for some reason, he couldn't find a thing. He felt so heartbroken about the situation he didn't want to ruin the date because he couldn't find a freaking bear. Before his mind could spiral into a big tornado of self-doubt, he saw it. In the corner of the store, right next to the checkout. The perfect bear, well, it wasn't a bear it was a bunny. A pink bunny, a bunny that reminded him of Y/n. 

He quickly walked over to the corner of the store, making sure not to knock people down on the way. Once the bunny was in his hand, he made his way back to the stuffing machine. 

The employee began to walk through the steps of bringing the bunny to life. The whole time, Raph was bouncing on his toes. His hands were in the pocket of his gray hoodie, playing with whatever he left in there, trying to stay calm and cool. It didn't take long before the employee gave Raph the new stuff and sewn bunny. 

“So why the bunny?” She inquired, popping up on the tall turtle, scaring a bit.  

He looked at her for a moment before looking back at the pink bunny. “Don’t laugh, but it reminds Raph of you.” 

The comment caught her off guard, and a flush of red bloomed across her face like wildfire. Y/n, now looking back at her red bear, couldn’t help but smile, her heart fluttering with a mix of joy and nervousness. She stammered, her voice suddenly unsteady. “Funny you say that,” She brought the toy close to her face, the bear slightly covering her blushing cheeks. “I picked mine for the same reason.” 

His face turned a deep shade of crimson. He glanced away, rubbing the back of his neck as if that could somehow cool him down. “Great minds, right?” 

“Yeah, great minds.” Y/n gushed, taking Raph’s hand and pulling him along with her. “We should probably find some clothes for these guys.” 

Raph nodded, allowing the smaller girl to guide her again. They spent a good amount of time finding the right outfit for their stuffed animals. In the end, they left with two outfits. The first one was simple overall and a t-shirt with the words sending hugs on it. The second outfit was a green checker pj set. 

As they were checking out, Y/n realized that they didn't pick shoes for them. Ralph volunteered to get them, promising to be back in a second. She was now left alone with the cashier. 

“I guess I know who those bears were for now.” The cashier said as she placed their items in a bag. 

Y/n looked over to the chair in confusion, not sure if the cashier was speaking to her or not. 

The cashier, realizing she had said that out loud, looked at the confused girl, slightly embarrassed. “I guess you're probably a little confused.” She added as she handed the girl the bag. “ It's just that this isn't the first time he's been here. I mean, he does have a punch card, so we all were wondering who those bears were going to.”

Before Y/n could reply, Raph was back with the shoes. The Cashier quickly scanned them before handing them back to the big guy. She gave them the total, and Y/n quickly played before Raph could say a thing. 

Raph wanted to protest, but he was quickly shut down by the cashier handing them their bears. Y/n giggled as she watched Raph pout at her. 

“Well, aren't you a cute couple? ” The cashier jested. 

The comment from the cashier made both of them blush. Sure, they both know what they are, but hearing it said out loud was still something they hadn’t gotten used to yet. 

Y/n held the red bear closer to her chest, trying to calm her down a bit. “Haha, you think so, that's sweet of you to say.” 

The cashier laughed at the two, never seeing two people blush so hard. She gave them a wave before helping out the next person in line.  Raph and Y/n took this as their cue to leave and walked out of the store. 

Once out of the store, they stood there for a second, just processing what just happened. Both thinking the same thing, she said they looked like a cute couple. 

Y/n never once was called a cute couple with any of her other partners. It was always a nice couple or odd pair. Her heart left so much lighter now. This really could be it: no more heart pains or tubs of ice cream mixed with tears. Y/n mind began to wonder about the future, a future with them. Y/n was so lost in thought that she didn't notice they made it back to her home. 

“I guess this is the end of the date?” Raph asked as he took hold of her hand. 

“Yeah, I guess it is,” Y/n replied, looking down at Raphs, feeling too shy to look at his face. In an attempt to calm herself, she started to play with his fingers. 

Raph chuckled at the girl. He wondered what he ever did to deserve this cute girl. We're really lucky, aren't we? Ralph thought, thanking whoever made it possible for them to meet. He took one of his hands away from Y/n and brought it to her face. His hand cupped her cheek, making the girl subconsciously rub her cheek against his hand.

The moments stretched, golden and unhurried, like sunlight filtering through the trees. They didn’t need words to fill the silence; the presence of each other was enough. Her fingers traced idle patterns on his arm, a small, unconscious gesture that made his heart raced. He let himself bask in it, in the quiet intimacy that made her feel safe and seen as if nothing else mattered but this moment and the way he loved her.

Sadly, this lovely moment was interrupted by Raph’s phone ringing. Taking it out, he saw it was a message from Leo telling him it was almost time for patrol. Raph sighed dramatically, a little mad that his brothers interpreted their special moment.  “Raphs got to go; it's almost time for patrol.” He explained to the short girl. 

“Well, I guess it can't be helped. You have a city to protect.” Y/n took her bear's clothes from the bag before handing it to Raph. “You’re just gonna have to make up for it next time.”

“I most definitely will.” He hooted, happy that she understood him. He would just hate for her to think he was just trying to bail on her. 

With that, they ended the date. Raph made sure she was in her apartment before leaving. Bunny held close to his chest as he hopped into the manhole. 

[pettyrevenge-base]

I spent $5,000+ to inconvenience and embarrass a competitor who treated me like crap. It was worth it.

So I used to run a small business (wedding space), and I was very successful in a very short period of time. To the point that I was getting all expense paid invites to industry conferences less than 6 months after I opened. Needless to say, this ruffled feathers.  

Enter Kate. Kate is a chief Karen who competes in the same space and has been nothing but awful to me from the moment she became aware that I wasn't just competition, I was doing better business than her. She would complain that I had gotten expenses paid, implied that it was because I was pretty, said that she felt people who had been in the space longer deserved it more, and a vaguely racist statement about how my outfit colors  "don't look good" on dark skinned people. She also reported my booth for accidentally being less than 3 inches outside our 10x10 slot, and has tried on more than one occasion to have my competing products removed from vendors halls. Needless to say, I despise this woman.

Now fast forward a little bit into the pandemic. I see major issues on the horizon for my business, and so I decide to step out and sell for a pretty penny. Bought a condo. Took a job at a non-profit and moved along with my life. But some of my friends still in the industry would give me updates or vent, and I was absolutely right to sell- most everyone doing what I do has already closed including the person I sold to. Kate, however, was still going strong, though I noticed her prices were really really aggressive. My friend then showed me SS that Kate had bragged privately about claiming to be unemployed/disabled by using her long time partner as a cover for her business, then dropping prices below what other sellers could do because she was double dipping.  

This really really really made me angry. I have a mobility disability, and I felt horrible for the people she was running out of business by pricing so low. So I of course reported her, but nothing seemed to come of that. Then one of the biggest conferences of our local industry came up on my calendar. This conference costs 8-10k to vend at, and many vendors make 50%+ of their yearly income from this one event.  

My friend runs the vending hall, so I asked her to place me right next to Kate. Now when I left the industry, I still had great contacts on the manufacturing side because I speak Chinese fairly well. I found the manufacturer for Kates top selling items, and ordered a sizeable inventory to take with me to the conference. I priced them at cost and made ginormous signs about inventory liquidation, and created these super aggressive bundle deals that made it nearly impossible for her to do any business being right next to me.  

I could see her over there fuming, and she did try to come over and complain, but our booth was too busy to even entertain her obnoxious huffing and puffing. She closed her shop last week. I lost about $5,000 doing this, but I got a lot of people deals on packages/items that they never thought they could afford for their special day, and it was honestly fun to help people out, especially at her expense.

Source: reddit.com/r/pettyrevenge

[bexisanidiot]

Bee story remake✨️

Birthdate: May 23rd, 1958

Legal Names: Pheonix Vera Oh, Svetlana.

Codenames (not in order): The Glory, Widow, Яблочко (Bullseye), Viper, Boss.

Height: 7ft 3 inches

Weight: Approximately 240-340Ibs

Nationality/Ethnicity (Idk the difference..): Czech/Russian

Languages: Czech, Russian, English, German, Navajo, Vietnamese, Spanish, small bit of Greek.

2005 ref

The lore✨️:

(TWS: abuse, r@p3/SA, murder, mentioned c@nn!b@l!sm, Alcoholism, skinning.)

Early life - Bee was born during the Soviet Union, specifically on Czechoslovakia grounds. Her mother had her very young, so she was forced to hand Bee over to an orphanage despite being nameless at birth. Commonly referred to as Bisytsia (she-devil), Ježibaba (Forest witch that lures kids in via sweets just to catch & eat them), Mamuna (Demoness), and Patercha(?) (Spirit of the dead, unbaptized child), etc. By other children, typically, for her unnaturally glowing eyes and red hair. She tended to be left out of groups and activities because of her appearance and the fact she never spoke or made much of a sound. The caretakers tried to get her to interact with others, but she took no interest and continued to play and draw by herself.

Power awakening - Around 2 to 4 years old, Bee gained her first abilities to read other people's minds and even pick up small items with her mind. Excited, she decided to show one of the older kids that willingly interacted with her at the orphanage while outside by lifting nearby items and putting them in their hands, then frightening the older kid. Out of fear, the older kid shoved her into the pavement, then ran off and proceeded to never interact with her again. This later turned into the older kid telling the other children, which, of course, turned into more bullying towards the toddler. Bee later showed a soviet solider who patrolled the orphanage of some of her abilities the same way she showed the older kid but with more heavier items. The soldier freaked out and proceeded to hit and toss her away from him, later reporting it to his higher-ups.

After power awakening - After the solider had reported Bee and her abilities, she was forced to be isolated away from everyone else for months to about a year. If caught trying to get out she'd be beaten then thrown into the room again by the soliders guarding her door. Commonly given any food the others didn't eat and was only let out to be bathed and use the bathroom, where she would also be supervised. Just before her 5th birthday, Zero had managed to receive words about a child who possessed special abilities and went out his way to adopt Bee. Leaving Czechoslovakia behind then given the name "Pheonix Vera Oh".

With Zero - Under the supervision of Zero and soon The Boss, she was studied and taken care of. Soon, given to The Boss and the COBRA Unit so she's with people who have special abilities like her and help her with her abilities under the codename "The Glory". She mostly took an interest in The Fear out of seeing he was weird like her, sometimes even seen trying to copy him the most. She would watch the Cobras and their moves and then proceed to attempt at copying them, causing her to understand some CQC basics. Still not speaking despite all their attempts to make her form a sentence.

1964 and after - Just before Snake Eater, was given to her biological parents in Czechoslovakia, who could now take her in, and named her "Svetlana" to hopefully protect her. Bee's parents attempted to bond with their daughter, but it was difficult since she would go back to isolation and wouldn't speak to anybody. Slowly, she started to grow more comfortable and interacted with her parents without words. Later on, she notices a financial struggle and decides to help by stealing money and food off of people. One day at the age of 10, she stole some money and rations off of soviet soliders and ended up stealing some off of a high rank solider who proceeded to kidnap her and beat on her and even "took advantage". Bee manages to steal one of his pistols, shoot him, and run off covered in the soliders blood. Discovering her liking to the taste of blood and desire to hurt and kill more

1970-1973 - Around March to early May in 1970, Bee's younger brother Jarek (my headcanon birth name for Mantis) was born. However, their mom died shortly after naming him due to complications of childbirth, leaving their dad to grow apart in depression and later alcoholism. Bee commonly took care of Jarek/Mantis as an infant and toddler, eventually started to speak. However, in 1973, Bee managed to sneak onto a military ship or aircraft that was headed for Vietnam.

Vietnam - Once she entered Vietnam, she found herself in a village and decided to help our despite not understanding the language and hid their for days to weeks. One day, a napalm bomb struck the village, burning almost all of Bee's backside. While knocked unconscious from the pain, she was captured by American soliders who had treated her wounds but hid her away in a broom closet within their hideout. Commonly handed her food, but she would refuse and attempt to escape multiple times, leading her to being hit, knocked out, and occasionally SA'd while knocked out. One day, she was dragged out of the broom closet and thrown into the middle of a small group of soldiers. The hideout was quickly attacked by an unknown ex-Gurkha solider, eventually leading to the building catching on fire. Most the soliders died in gunfire, but the last one made an attempt on her as a last moment which led to Bee's memory blanking and later finding herself being carried by said Gurkha solider but too exhausted to do anything. Her and the Gurkha took hideout within a forest, the solider teaching her Vietnamese as she taught them English, they ended up bonding to eachother in a parent-child way as the months go on. Upon gunfire and Bee being injured, discovered Bee was pregnant (with a US solider's child). Shortly after the discovery, the soldier is shot lethally and gave Bee their kukri knives as a gift before dying due to blood lost. Bee attempted to bury the soldier but failed to do so, eventually and dreadfully deciding to feast on the soldier's flesh to survive after being unable to catch any wild animal on her own. Sometimes, she would wait for any small group of soliders or singular soldier to come by to take camp in her forest, commonly killing them in order to take their food and even clothes. Later turned into large group of soliders and sometimes dogs to hunt her down, eventually caught and shot in the leg by a solider but still managed to get away by finding a way to kill off the dogs. Later on, in early 1974, Zero had gotten word of Bee being in a Vietnam forest that would end up being carpet bombed, so he decided to send Skull Face to go get her.

1974-1980 - After being retrieved by Skull Face, then given to Zero once more, in April 1974, Bee went into labor, then fell unconscious and even died during the C-Section. Quickly resurrected, but her child was nowhere in sight, never told the gender or anything. Within a day of postpartum, she is sent back to the village and Czechoslovakia. Quickly growing an attachment to the 4 year old Mantis/Jarek out of her postpartum depression of not having her actual child. Taking care of him even more as if he were her child. Once healed, she decided to start stealing again but also killing sometimes for sport. Stole from people & stores, creating her own explosives and chemical gas, burned and vandalized buildings, commonly killing those who went in her way/tried to stop her. She gained more abilities and started to make anyone choke on their own blood or overall mind control for her amusement. In 1976-1980, she started to calm down a bit and went into prostitution in order to get money, quickly resulting in her drug addiction. In 1977, she met Quiet, whose family was posted nearby, and they quickly bonded with each other as friends and then secret lovers. On February 28th, 1979, Bee had twin sons named Alan & Luke from a cryptic pregnancy. Her drug addiction started to dial down due to having her twins. In 1980, she's seen using CQC on a drunk soldier who had attempted to force himself on her by a high rank solider nearby who then recommended her into the Soviet army where she joins then is later called Яблочко (Bullseye).

1981-1986+ - In the Soviet army, she, of course, invaded Afghanistan with her comrades. Quickly promoted, and Skull Face offered her a position in XOF where she accepts and sees Quiet again. In 1984, she was deployed as a spy alongside with Quiet till she read Miller and Ocelot's minds and discovered Paz, Chico, and the other tragedies Skull Face had started over what she calls "childish jealousy". Defecting to DD, then later going MIA with Quiet. Later upon hearing about what happened to the village back in Czechoslovakia and the floating boy in Africa. Shortly after mission 51, Bee hunts Mantis/Jarek down in Afria in a panic frenzy. Later taking him, Quiet, and her twins to the USA to live normally for at least a little while. Contracting the vocal cord parasites in the meantime.

1990s - After years of training/ programming her parasites. She decides to join FOXHOUND and is received the codename "Viper" by The Colonel. Liquid eventually takes over FOXHOUND and Bee decides to side with him, taking the codename "Widow".

2005 - When the Shadow Moses incident occurred, she was the first to find Mantis. Later somehow knocked unconscious since she wouldn't move away from his body and reacted violently when an attempt was made. Upon waking up, she wandered off to find Quiet while completely dissociated. Shortly after finding Quiet, they leave to go to the UK where Zero is placed and Bee completely isolates herself for years, developing an alcohol addiction.

Snake's retirement to modern day - shortly after Zero's death, Cipher as a whole was handed to Bee since she was the last family member in his line. Upon hearing about Snake's retirement, she goes to hunt him down and brutally take her revenge via torturing and killing, later skinning. Keeping his bandana, bones, and chopped up flesh as fucked up trophies (yes they've been preserved) in her office. Claiming his skeleton is just a fucked up and broken school health class skeleton she has in the corner for no reason and glued back together. in between 2015-2021 she decides to leave her complete isolation and is now known as "Boss" as she's in control over Cipher in the UK.

[cutie4560]

Ch 3: Will He Return for Supper?

Shail was startled awake by the low rumbling of thunder. “Perfect.” she muttered under her breath. As a light drizzle began Shail stood stretching out a knot in her back. Most nights weren’t so rough on her body, but this location wasn’t much to her choosing. Realigning her spine she got right to packing. She shoved her makeshift pillow and blanket back into her pack. Putting on her corset, Shail was dressed for the day. As she pulled up her boots, the movement caused some pebbles to toppled over onto Thorin's head. Waking up his attention turned to Shail. "Best be moving on, storm rolling in." She said, leaping down from the rock. She walked across the line of sleeping dwarves. An unlucky few sprang up as the air left their bodies or their digits were nearly broken under her boots sole. She showed no remorse.

"Why are you up this early? Sun's barely risen." Kili asked, rubbing at his eyes.

"Won't be any sun today, it's gonna be a downpour. You'd better start packing up." She said securing a rope around her pony's saddle.

"You call this a downpour? Tell me, how'd you come to that conclusion?" Kill asked as the drizzle brushed against his face.

"You can smell. That musky scent lingering in the air." She said putting on a cloak.

"Oh, I just thought that smell was you." he retorted with a smirk. "It's a few droppings, should pass by in a couple of moments. Didn't pin you to be worried of messing up your locks." Kili said poking fun at her as the others chuckled. Rolling her eyes, Shail mounted the pony. She pulled her hood up covering for the expecting rain. As she rode off the she-dwarf disappeared into the horizon. The company's laughter died down once the drizzle escalated. The weather turned from a mist shower into an abrupt rain. The others looked at Kili, "What? I'm positive that it will stop. Watch you'll see."

Thorin was skeptical about her sudden exit. Why was she up before anyone else? Had she tempered with their supplies? Gandalf must have shared his same thoughts because the two exchanged uneasy looks. “Check your bag!” He yelled rummaging through his own pack. There were no missing items. His relief didn’t last long, for he worried she stole from the others. Thorin turned abruptly seeing his dwarves were not taking this precaution seriously, he took inspection in his own hands. The most obvious target would be their food supply. Thorin went over to Bombur’s pack and snatched it from under his head. The portly dwarf’s head hit the ground. “Looks like the food is untouched.” Thorin said aloud.

“That’s good to hear.” Gandalf said. The sight of Oin going for a sip of his canteen triggered the wizard. He remembered his worries from the night before. Did she poison their water? Gandalf smacked the canister out of Oin hand. “DO NOT DRINK THE WATER!” The company looked confused at the wizard behavior. “We simply don't know what the she-dwarf could have tampered with during the night. Who was on the third watch?”

“That’d be Bifur.” Bofur answered, pointing over to his cousin. Who had been in the same position since shift change.

“He is quite observant…tell me, has he observed anything else besides this one spot?” Thorin asked.

“Not sure, why don’t you ask him.” He answered back with sass. He did not mean to disrespect the king, but it was too early for such nonsense. Thorin growled in frustration and ordered each dwarf to inspect their belongings. After the brief paranoia the company packed their things and followed after Shail.

She waited for them under a large tree branch, using it as extra coverage. “Glad you all could make it. Can I offer any of you some fresh poison water?” She said, shaking her own canister with a laugh.

Cold, wet, and miserable, the dwarves rode through what was now a downpour. "Here, Mr. Gandalf, can't you do something about this deluge?" Dori asked.

"It is raining, Master Dwarf, and it will continue to rain until the rain is done. If you wish to change the weather of the world, you should find yourself another wizard." Gandalf was annoyed by the dwarf's complaining.

"Are there any?" Bilbo asked out of curiosity. "Other wizards?"

"There are five of us. The greatest of our order is Saruman, the White. Then there are the two Blue Wizards...you know, I've quite forgotten their names." Gandalf tried hard to remember his two brothers' names.

"And who is the fifth?" Bilbo asked, counting off only four.

"Well, that would be Radagast, the Brown." He answered with a smile.

"Is he a good wizard or is he more like you." Bilbo asked.

Slightly offended by the remark Gandalf answered,"I think he's a very great wizard, in his own way. He's a gentle soul who prefers the company of animals to others. He keeps a watchful eye over the vast forest lands to the East, and a good thing too, for always Evil will look to find a foothold in this world."

"Keeper of the forest sounds more like an Ent to me." She said riding up alongside Bilbo.

"Ent? Who is that?" He asked.

"Not a who, but a what." She answered. Bilbo raised an eyebrow and twitched his nose. "Ents are trees that can walk and talk, who protect the forest lands. Of course they could just be fairy stories." She smiled looking around. "I heard rumors that those who are not welcome to the forest get dragged underground. Their bodies are swarmed with the roots so the ents can suck every last drop of blood." She pointed down to a large tree root stick out from the ground.

"That's enough now. Don't go believing children's stories, master baggins." Balin said from behind.

"Beware the Ents." Shail teased wiggling her fingers in Bilbo's face making a menacing sound. Riding past a tree, Shail drew her dagger. She slashed off a piece of bark with the blade. Bilbo rode past the same tree debating whether he heard a low cry from the plant or a small rumble from his hungry stomach.

A week had passed and the company arrived at an abandoned and disheveled farmhouse. Thorin had the company stop before dismounting his pony. "We'll camp here for the night. Fili, Kili, look after the ponies. Make sure you stay with them."

"A farmer and his family used to live here." Gandalf said, walking inside the broken home. He looked over the moldy wood and gaping holes in the roof.

"Oin, Gloin." Thorin called to the two dwarves.

"Aye?" Gloin answered.

"Get a fire going." He wanted to reside for the night.

"Right you are." Gloin said, starting to gather up firewood.

"I think it would be wiser to move on. We could make for the Hidden Valley." Gandalf said, trying to convince Thorin.

"I have told you already, I will not go near that place." Thorin growled, walking past the wizard.

"Why not? The elves could help us. We could get food, rest, and advice." Gandalf told the king. Thorin simply looked unamused. "We have a map that we cannot read. Lord Elrond could help us." Gandalf tried reasoning with the king.

Thorin gave a small laugh, "Help? A dragon attacks Erebor, what help came from the Elves? Orcs plunder Moria, desecrate our sacred halls, the Elves looked on and did nothing. You ask me to seek out the very people who betrayed my grandfather and betrayed my father."

"You are neither of them. I did not give you that map and key for you to hold on to the past." Gandalf said getting angered.

"I did not know that they were yours to keep." Thorin snapped at the wizard.

Gandalf stomped off in a rage, leaving the Company. Bilbo watched the flustered wizard coming towards him. "Everything alright? Gandalf, where are you going?"

"To seek the company of the only one around here who's got any sense." Gandalf said walking past the others.

"Who's that?" The hobbit asked.

Gandalf yelled back, "Myself, Mr. Baggins! I've had enough of dwarves for one day."

"Come on, Bombur, we're hungry." Thorin ordered as he glared down at the leaving wizard.

"Is he coming back?" Bilbo asked Balin who was unsure.

As the dwarves set up camp,Bombur decided on stew for the evening meal. As the cow bones simmered in the cauldron Dwalin accompanied Shail with rabbit hunting. She made a small fire blowing smoke into their holes to chase them out. Dwalin caught the fuzzy critters impressed at the lasses tactics. Returning to camp Dwalin asked aloud, "Who's helping?" The tattoo dwarf held seven bunny carcauses in his forarms as the she-dwarf held the other six.

Taking a seat by the fire, Shail used a blade to skin the rabbit's pelt. She tried to trim off as much meat, but the rabbit had little to offer. Shail noticed Ori drawing in his book and thought what a waste of time. His doodles and strange squiggles would not aid in their survival. Nabbing a rabbit from Dwalin's pile she walked over. The dead bunny dangled as she held it out, but Ori took no notice. He was too into detailing his art piece. Irritated, Shail dropped the corpse onto Ori's journal. "Aye! Go on, you cut this one up." Ori flinched as the limp body landed on the page. The rabbit's lifeless eyes staring up at him. The look of disgust and fear on his face. Shail held out the bloody dagger for him to take. "We need to get 'em done and three dwarves are faster than two." Before Ori could protest, she grabbed the rabbit. Slamming his book shut she tossed the journal onto the ground. "Go on, it's dead already. Cut off the pelt, de-bone it from top to bottom, fish out their eyes, skim off the meat, and bring it over to Bombur. Simple as that." she ordered forcing the dagger handle into his palm. "Be quick, i'm hungry." She said trailing off to Bofur.

Nori looked at his younger brother in pity. "Give it here Ori. I'll show you how it’s done." He said giving into his brotherly role. Ori was clueless on how to even hold the knife properly, he smiled in relief when Nori took over showing him the way.

Bofur held the bowl of seasoning as Bombur added flavor into the stew. "Bit tough on the lad, weren't ye?" Bofur asked.

"That boy needs meat on his bones more than in his gut." She said handing over her cuts of meat.

Bilbo paced back and forth, looking to see if Gandalf would be returning anytime soon. "He's been gone a long time."

"Who?" Bofur asked, holding two bowls.

"Gandalf." Bilbo answered.

"He's a wizard! He does as he chooses. Here, do us a favor; take this to the lads." Bofur said, handing over the bowls to Bilbo. The hobbit left on his assignment, trying to be sneaky Bombur went in for a fourth helping. "Stop it, you've had plenty." Bofur said, slapping his brother's hand off the ladle.

"Here, pass over a bowl. I'm starving!" Dwalin called out impatiently.

"Not bad Bombur." Oin complimented.

"Yeah, Dori could've cooked it." Nori said, taking a jab at his brother. The others laughed.

"Hilarious." Dori sarcastically replied.

"Here you are Balin." Shail said, handing over his portion.

"Thanks lass." He took the bowl, sipping the hot stew. It felt nice on a cold night, warming up the bones. Everyone was enjoying their meal when Fili came running from the woods.

"No need to run, we have plenty of food left over." Bofur assured.

"Bilbo… he’s been… taken by trolls." Fili panted heavily. The thought of their burglar being a troll's meal frightened them. "He went to get the ponies back."

Thorin stormed over, grabbing Fili by his jacket. “What!? You two were supposed to watch the ponies, not him." Throin growled out of frustration. Releasing his grip Thorin equipped himself with a sword. "How far are they from here?"

"Not far. Kili stayed back to keep an eye on Bilbo." Fili answered.

"Take up arms!" Thorin yelled, charging into the woods.

As the dwarves raced to save their burglar, Dwalin detained Shail. "Not you. Trolls are too dangerous, even for a wildlander. Watch for the wizard." He ordered,grabbing his hammer.

“You don't know what I can do. Those trolls will be missing a few teeth after I finish with them” She threatened balling up her fist.

Dwalin grabbed Shail's collar, with an intimidating glare he forced her back onto the log. Irritated, Shail gave in. When the cost was cleared, Shail grabbed her mace making a b-line to a separate path.

[aishangotome]

Chapter 5-4 A Sudden Clap of Thunder (驚雷乍起)

Chapter 5-3

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.

.

Even though my heart was filled with countless worries and anxieties, the streets of Shengning never lacked liveliness and...

Rise and fall, cycles repeat, Dacheng's prosperity and longevity once again hidden. Venus accompanies the moon, Mars shines, the divine flower blooms anew, who knows regret?

A group of children sang a nursery rhyme they had learned from somewhere, holding candy figurines in their hands as they ran through the streets.

Fei Liang: Princess, the news of you reviving the Yaoguang flower has spread throughout the city. Everyone sees it as a good omen.

Seeing my furrowed brows relax slightly, Fei Liang continued.

Fei Liang: And the word "Cai" in "hidden Cai" has the same pronunciation as the Second Prince's name. Do you think it's also praising the Second Prince?

My heart suddenly recalled my father's silence in the hall that day. Was this truly a good thing for me and my second brother?

Princess: Just mention it to me. Don't talk nonsense outside.

Fei Liang: Don't worry, Princess. I know my limits.

Sunlight filtered through the bamboo curtains of the carriage, faintly illuminating my body, like the affection my father had shown me over the years - very faint and very thin.

I couldn't help but want to grasp that ray of light, but the moment I reached out, clouds drifted across the sky, blocking the sun, and the light instantly disappeared.

Remembering Lu Ming's words from that day, the worry in my heart grew heavier.

Princess: I hope he can make the antidote soon...

Just as the carriage arrived outside Prince Fu's residence, a commotion arose. Fei Liang peeked out to check, her face filled with concern.

Fei Liang: Princess, outside... it's full of soldiers.

-

Prince Fu's residence was in chaos. Servants and maids knelt on the ground, and soldiers in red robes were still carrying items out of the house.

Princess: What are you doing? This is the Prince's residence!

Rong Lin: So what if it's the Prince's residence? I'll raid it if I want to!

I turned around and saw Rong Lin on the other side of the courtyard, one foot on a flowerbed, playing with a halberd in his hand, looking at me with a smirk.

Rong Lin: What, does the Princess want to join in the fun?

Beside Rong Lin stood another person, with a jade-like face and golden robes, and a pair of chilling eyes - it was Yin Zhong.

Why was he here too?

Yin Zhong: General Rong, don't forget that we're here on official business entrusted by the Grand General, not to put on a show.

Yin Zhong retorted Rong Lin's remark in a measured tone, then turned to look at me.

Yin Zhong: Princess, this is not a place you should be.

Princess: Whether I should be here or not, it's not up to you to decide.

Yin Zhong looked at me, a strange glint in his eyes. For some reason, those eyes gave me a sense of déjà vu.

Before I could ponder further, the door to the main hall opened, and Prince Fu was pushed out by two soldiers. His hands were bound with ropes, and he was shoved so forcefully that he almost fell.

I gestured, and in a flash, Qing Hun was in front of Prince Fu. With a wave of his hand and a kick, he knocked the two soldiers to the ground.

As he tried to approach Prince Fu again, a heavy halberd suddenly thrust towards him.

My heart skipped a beat. Before I could react, Qing Hun had already firmly grasped the tip of the halberd with one hand.

Rong Lin: Did I say you could save him?

Everything happened in a split second. Qing Hun and Rong Lin faced off, neither of them backing down.

Yin Zhong, who had been observing from the sidelines, leisurely took out an imperial edict from his sleeve.

Yin Zhong: Princess, Prince Fu is suspected of ordering assassins to murder the Grand General. The evidence is conclusive, and we are here to arrest him under imperial orders. Surely the princess doesn't intend to defy the edict?

Looking at the edict with the jade seal, I understood. Han You had failed to frame my second brother and had shifted the blame onto Prince Fu.

After all, everyone knew that Prince Fu was on my second brother's side.

I signaled Qing Hun to retreat and walked directly towards Prince Fu. He seemed surprised to see me here, his expression filled with worry.

Prince Fu: Y/N, why are you here?! It's dangerous!

Princess: I came to see you off, Sixth Uncle.

I took off my cloak and draped it over Prince Fu. Taking advantage of the close proximity, I whispered in his ear,

Princess: What benefits did Guchuan promise you back then?

Prince Fu: ...!

His eyes shot open. I stared intently into them, trying to find what I was looking for. But there was nothing. Those eyes were like a dry well in the depths of winter.

Prince Fu: I don't know what you're talking about.

Princess: Uncle Fu!

Prince Fu: ... Y/N, when you were born, I held you in my arms. I also held your brothers. I watched you all grow up.

He looked at me calmly, even with a hint of a smile.

Prince Fu: I'm old now, and you all still have a long way to go... This Shengning City is a giant black hole that can swallow many things. You have no idea of its power.

Prince Fu: To survive, you have to learn to protect yourself. Don't ask what you shouldn't, and don't find out what you shouldn't. Not a single word.

Princess: What if I insist on pursuing the truth?

Prince Fu closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again, looking at me.

Prince Fu: Then be prepared for the sky to fall.

Princess: Who is the "sky" you're referring to?

I asked in a trembling voice, but Rong Lin had already impatiently approached and grabbed Prince Fu.

Rong Lin: Done reminiscing? I have to report back. Take him away!

Prince Fu didn't answer me again. He gave me one last look and then calmly followed the soldiers.

At that moment, a gaze fell upon me. I turned my head and met Yin Zhong's eyes - that inexplicable familiarity again.

Who was it?

.

.

.

.

Chapter 5-5

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[midwestmade29]

TLC 🩵

This one is for you @supakixbabe 🖤 I hope this brings a smile to your face! Word count: 1.1k Divider by: @saradika-graphics GIF credit: @tekkers

Original request:

Nick Jackson. Maybe the reader is having a bad day, has shut everyone out, and Nick breaks down her walls to help her? I think a lot of people could benefit from reading that. Maybe they can be best friends to lovers or just best friends.

Disclaimers: None really! Just some feel good fluff with the world's most precious soul 🥰

Nick Jackson knows you better than anyone, so when you're stuck in a rut he comes and saves the day...

It was going on day 3 of you feeling crummy. Things weren’t working out in your favor; your self-esteem had taken a hit, and you just weren’t feeling well. You had shut everyone out, ignoring phone calls and texts and only traveled between the couch and your bed. After about a day and a half, your phone stopped buzzing with notifications which left your apartment feeling how you did inside, quiet, and alone.

You were laying on the couch flipping through the tv channels with your hair a tangled mess, empty food wrappers and dirty dishes on the coffee table, and you were wearing the same pajamas you’ve had on for days. Suddenly, there was a knock at your door that made you about jump out of your skin! There was another soft tap on the door, but you laid there silently hoping that whoever was on the other side would go away.

“Y/N, it’s me. Nick,” a familiar voice spoke softly.

Your eyes grew large when you recognized it, panic started setting in when you remembered the current state you and your apartment were in! You rolled off the couch and onto the floor, trying to run your fingers through your hair to smooth it out when Nick spoke again.

“Please Y/N, let me in. Your neighbor is staring at me,” You chuckled at the slight dismay in his voice and figured you should put an end to his suffering.

“I’ll be right there!”

“Hey,” Nick greeted tenderly.

He didn’t seem to notice your unkempt appearance when he smiled at you and explained why he showed up unannounced.

“I’m sorry I didn’t call or text, I wasn’t sure if you would’ve answered or not. I know you’ve been having a rough time lately, so I wanted to check on you,”

Nick held up a canvas bag that looked like it was filled to the brim with random items, piquing your curiosity.

“Yeah, sorry about that. I’ve just been stuck in a rut, and it’s been hard to pull myself out of it. Um, thank you for coming by. Please, come in! Ignore the mess…” You stepped aside and ushered Nick into your apartment, following behind him as he made his way into your kitchen. Embarrassment started to cover your cheeks when you noticed his eyes scanning the room, your urge to apologize for things being so untidy was strong.

“I guess I’ve fallen behind on my chores,” you laughed nervously. “And maybe my personal hygiene. Sorry Nick, I-” was all you were able to say before Nick stopped you, but for good reason.

“No need to apologize Y/N, I get it. I didn’t come here to make you feel bad or embarrassed. I’m going to order us dinner and put away some of the things I brought with me. Why don’t you take a hot shower, take your time and I’ll have everything ready when you get out?” Nick’s kindness made your heart swell, his presence was everything you’ve been needing the last few days.

“Are you sure?” you asked hesitantly, Nick responded quickly with a “yes” and shooed you away.

Thick pillows of steam flowed out of the shower and filled the bathroom while you stood underneath the hot water. It felt amazing on your skin, every swipe of your loofa made you feel like you were coming back to life. You followed Nick’s instructions and took your time, staying put until the water turned cold.

Once you were done, you dried off and brushed your hair before grabbing some clean clothes from your dresser. When you reemerged into the kitchen, you saw Nick close the front door behind him with a pizza box in his hands, a smile covering his face when he noticed you watching him.

“There she is,” he stated affectionately. “I ordered your favorite pizza; I hope you’re hungry. I’ll grab plates and drinks and meet you on the couch,”

On your way over to sit, your eyes scanned the room and noticed that Nick had been busy while you were in the shower. You saw that your dirty cups and dishes that were all around had been placed in the sink and dishwasher, the trash had been bagged up and sat by the front door, a new candle had been lit and fresh flowers in a vase sat on the coffee table. You bent down to smell the sweet blossoms when Nick walked up behind you, his voice making you jump a little in surprise.

“I was hoping they would make you smile. I remembered they’re your favorite kind. There’s also a new blanket waiting for you on the couch,”

Tears pricked the corners of your eyes as you wrapped Nick in a tight embrace, nearly making him drop everything he had in his hands. He quickly sat it all down and hugged you just as tightly.

“Hey, no more tears, Y/N. It’s all going to be okay,” he whispered. 

“It’s not that. It’s just you’re so thoughtful and caring and it just means so much, you know?” 

The pizza was delicious as you and Nick devoured it while watching your favorite show on tv. He took care of cleaning up while you wrapped yourself in your new blanket and took a seat on the floor by the coffee table. The both of you had picked out a board game to play and it was your job to get everything set up for it.

The night was filled with laughter, smiles, and happiness which was something you hadn’t felt in a while. All the weight you had carried on your shoulders lately didn’t feel quite as heavy, and it was nice having someone there to help you lift it. Nick’s smile lit you up inside every time you were the reason behind it, his laughter breathed life into you.

“You didn’t let me win, did you?” you asked suspiciously. “Do you know who you’re talking to, Y/N? I’m as competitive as they come! Of course I didn’t let you win, you beat me fair and square this time,” he replied with a wink. 

At some point, you and Nick had fallen asleep on the couch together with your new blanket draped over you both. You were facing his chest with your arms wrapped around each other when you started to stir, but the slow and steady beat of his heart soothed you right back to sleep.

You remained tangled together most of the night, even after the two of you migrated to your bed. That night you had the most restful night of sleep that you had in a long time, you slept without fear of waking up alone because just like always, you knew Nick would still be there with you no matter what. 

[alsjeblieft-zeg]

353 of 2023

Rosehip tea: Which book did you love when you were younger?

Pelle Svanslös, the children's book series about a cat without tail. It was my go-to book as a child <3

Oolong tea: Which book series could you read again?

The ones I mentioned in the first question.

Rooibos: What is one of you favourite books?

I have too many to count. From series, I love The Legend of Ice People, it's a fantasy book series about a family with supernatural powers.

Strawberry tea: Tell me about your first kiss, if you had one.

It was with my first ex, felt somewhat forced and I didn't enjoy it at all. No magical experience whatsoever.

Apple tea: Tell me about your first break up, if you had one.

It was very dramatic. He dumped me on Valentine's Day (lol), cut off the contact, and phone called me two weeks later just to say he's gonna commit suicide the same day. Of course he didn't do it. It was just playing on my emotions.

Earl Grey: Which countries have you visited?

Half of Belgium (if it counts), France, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Poland.

Chai: Where do you want to travel next?

More of France, Spain, Romania, Hungary, Finland, Sweden.

Darjeeling: What languages do you speak?

Dutch (native), English (fluent), Polish (basic), German (basic), French (very basic).

Hop tea: Do you have a favourite tea? Which one?

I don't, but I used to drink Earl Grey from time to time.

Herbal tea: Which person would you chose to travel the world with?

Either my husband or my sister.

Nettle tea: Are you jealous on a person? Why?

No, I'm not. It personally doesn't make sense to me as we all have our cross to bear.

Ice tea: Do you miss somebody? Why?

Yes. My sister, because I haven't seen her in person for a few years. My old friend, who used to call me "his little brother"; because his depression took over him. Two guys who have been my hospital drivers last year, because I've grown fond of them.

Yellow tea: What shampoo do you use?

That Australian (?) brand NAK, pretty expensive but good. And vegan.

Peppermint tea: What is your favourite gif at the moment?

Ceylon tea: Do you have a song you like, but have bad memories with?

I do, but I can't recall the title at the moment.

Hibiscus tea: What is a song you can always hear?

Anything that's on the radio, that I can always hear, even though I'm not willing to.

Flowering tea: What is a movie you can always watch?

I'm not into movies at all.

Pu-erh tea: What is a book you can recommend to others?

I love many books, but I don't recommend. After all, everyone has different tastes.

Turkish tea: What is your favourite cake?

No cake, thanks. Only the European cheesecake, if ever.

Green tea: What was the first movie you saw in a cinema?

Probably Shrek, but I don't like cinemas.

Blueberry-Muffin tea: Tell me a memory, which makes you smile.

My sister and me making crazy photosessions, recording silly videos, and all our inside jokes. I have too many precious memories with her.

Panda tea: Do you have pets? Which one?

I have two cats. Victoria is a 12 years old tabby and Susie is a 4 years old tuxedo.

Butter tea: Show / Tell me about one thing in your room you find awesome.

I don't know if it counts as a room item, but look at these cute highlighters <3

Hot chocolate: Do you have (a) stuffed animal(s) sitting in your room? Which one(s)?

I have one cat that was a gift from my friends when I was in the hospital. She lloks a bit like Susie, but I named her Molly.

24 flavors: What is your favourite word?

Alsjeblieft, Dutch for "please".

Jasmin tea: Can you draw / paint? Wanna show me something?

I can, but I'm not brilliant. I can show what my mum painted, though:

Kombucha: What do you order on a pizza?

Cheese, mushrooms and bell peppers.

Cloud tea: Which movie do you want to watch next?

None. I can't deal with movies.

Gunpowder tea: If you had the chance: would you go to space?

I don't think so. Seems too scary for me.

[tombeane-blog]

Beware That Mona Lisa Smile

"You're so like the lady with the mystic smile"

Nat King Cole - "Mona Lisa"

I don't know how long we've had our Pepper Grinder.  Somewhere between 6 and 30 years.

What I do know is that for the past few months it hasn't been grinding properly.  The pepper comes out just like dust.

I took it apart and it looked like the little grinding teeth were kinda worn - or were they?  I never looked at them when it was new so I'm not sure.

And so began my exhaustive online research for a new one.

There was a huge selection of pepper grinders and pepper mills listed.  I asked my AI Chatbot to explain the difference between the two.  It took 3 paragraphs to more or less say, "Not sure".

Prices ranged from $20 to $200.  Wow!  That must be because over the years a lot of advanced technology has been introduced to the grinding arts.  

Many of them were adjustable from a coarse to a fine grind.  Cool, but Hmmm?  Do we need one of the new, more expensive, advanced models?  

"Hey old man, don't be a fuddy duddy.  Join the amazing and wonderful world of advanced pepper corn granulating."

"I don't need you in this blog Vern.  Sit down and shut up!"

As usual, I looked at a whole fecee ton of them and I paid particular attention to the Amazon reviews.

"5 Stars!  I was amazed at the difference in my life from using a well made, cost effective adjustable pepper crushing system.  I feel younger than I have in years.  Even my wife noticed the increase in my zip, energy and stamina(If you know what I mean - wink wink nudge nudge)."

"4 Stars. Works as expected. I rated it down a star because it does not work as well on bell peppers as it does on those little black peppercorns."

"3 Stars.  It worked OK at first but after 3 uses my morning eggs started tasting funny.  I removed eggs from my diet and am now satisfied with this product."

"2 stars.  Product came packaged with way too much bubble wrap - which we all know has a terrible affect on the climate.  I contacted Amazon and requested a replacement.  I sent the climate harming unit back in it's original package and within a few days I had a replacement that came packaged with almost no bubble wrap at all.  Great response from Amazon! (although the box was damaged)  I am extremely happy with it now.  Changed from 2 climate destroying stars to 4 beautiful green stars! I would have given it 5 stars if it wasn't for the damaged box."

"Piece of crap item sucked right out of the box just like every other pepper grinder I've tried!  I might as well pound my peppercorns with a large round rock.  Just wish that I had the ability to give this product 1/4 star.  AMAZON - GET TO WORK ON FIXING EVERYTHING OR I WILL BURN YOU TO THE GROUND!"

"5 Stars!  I work from home in my spare time and made over $300,000 dollars last year!!!  You can too!  Quit your your boring miserable job immediately and order my new absolutely free 4 page brochure on becoming a gazillionaire like me! (You only pay $17.50 for shipping and handling.). "

Research complete, I managed to get my selection down to three highly regarded adjustable pepper grinder-millers.  But then I noticed that one of them looked exactly like the model I already had.  The other two models had little marks on the side showing a I to a IIII in adjustable coarseness but the one that looked like mine did not.

But, it too was advertised as adjustable!

In desperation I studied the diagrams which showed that by twisting the little knob on top you could adjust the grinding mechanism on the bottom. 

Turns out the knob wasn't just to screw the top back on - it was an integral working component of the crushiating process!

Rushing back into the kitchen, I reassembled mine and observed that it did the same thing.  Sure enough there on the counter top was proof that I could adjust the pepper pellets from a fine powder to little nibblets of pepper goodness.

Realizing I had solved the problem, I wiped all the pepper fragments from the counter into the sink, tiptoed silently back into the living room and sat back down and turned on Fox Business.

Later my wife walked into the living room and asked if I had decided which pepper grinder I was going to buy.

"Do you want the truth or do you want a comforting little white lie?", I asked.

"Well, usually when I ask for you to quit lying and tell me the truth you respond, 'You can't handle the truth!' - or you just say the lie louder.  So I'm a little unsure here."

"OK, so maybe I put it back together and maybe it just started working."

"Or maybe I figured out the problem and maybe I fixed it." 

"Then again maybe - after all these years - I finally learned how to use it properly."

I finished with, "I look at it like this.  Based on the higher priced model I saw on the Google - I just saved us $200 dollars!"

She stood there silently smiling at me.

And now I know why Mona Lisa had that world famous smile as she sat there looking at Leonardo.  I know what she was thinking.

"You're an idiot!"

[cmyknoise]

Hey guys, I know I complain about Revolt as a merch company a LOT. 

But there is a very very long twitter thread, as Wilbur’s merch starts shipping out, of designs coming in completely wrong. Like, the teal hoodie seems to be the biggest problem, as it’s coming in with the brown hoodie design. This means it doesn’t have the windows logo or the printed on back, and several are missing the drawstrings. 

Other issues such as the navy crewneck coming in bright blue, and shipping issues, etc. 

Here’s the Twitter Thread

There’s a lot of issues, and be careful as you receive your merch from Revolt (look the clothes over while they’re still in the plastic wrapping, I believe the site says if the wrapping is removed you can’t return it). 

If something is wrong take pictures and send emails to support@wilbur.store

This issue is seriously fucked up and I’ve gone on and on before about how Revolt is a shit merch company, but now they’re not even getting the designs of the clothing right and the hoodies especially were very expensive. Please be cautious. 

If you’re curious, Tubbo, Ranboo, Karl, Jack Manifold, Wilbur, Tommy, and a few others have done merch through this company, but it is not their fault. The company is vague to customers and the cc!s they do this deal with. Wilbur read what Revolt had told him and it was vague and the exact same copy/paste message that they send fans when they question shipping times. 

Please please please stop buying from Revolt, and please keep an eye out on your merch as it comes in, the teal hoodie from Wilbur especially. 

IF YOU GET THE WRONG HOODIE DO NOT TAKE IT OUT OF THE CLEAR PLASTIC. IF THE FRONT DESIGN ISNT THE RIGHT ONE, IT’S NOT RIGHT. IF YOU TAKE IT OUT OF THE CLEAR PLASTIC YOU CAN’T RETURN IT.

EDIT: Some additional things are below!!

 The teal hoodie should look like this ⬇️⬇️

It is being shipped with no draw streams, very acid washed, and with the design that was exclusive to the brown hoodie ⬇️⬇️

The brown hoodie is embroidered but features no back design, just Wilbur’s name. 

There are other issues with one of the long sleeve shirts arriving a bright blue rather than a muted navy blue. 

The merch in general is so far 2-3 weeks late in shipping, and responses from support are vague and bare. 

Also! I just want to compile my personal experiences with Revolt and some other comments

I first ordered Tubbo merch when it was initially released in June 2021. It was initially delayed from shipping in Sepetember to October. 

October rolled around, no further update. I sent a support email and it took about 2 weeks for a response. I was told they’d be shipping within a week. The week passed, it’s now early November and I contact them again. I’m told it’ll ship out late November. No update, no merch. Early December I sent out another email and they responded a week later that it’ll get there by the end of December. Once again, I waited, and I received Tubbo’s merch early January.

I first ordered Ranboo’s merch when it was initially released, it was supposed to ship out early November. Again the date rolls around and nothing. It took 3 weeks for me to get an email back, in which case I was told it would ship out in a week or two. Repeat of what happened with Tubbo, and I didn’t get my merch until January. 

Every email was the same cut/paste response of ‘we’ve been delayed, items haven’t come in, we expect to get them in a few days, we’ll ship next week.’ but this happens each and every time. 

Luckily, all my orders came in correct and of decent quality, but I’ve seen quality control issues from other people’s orders. 

I didn’t buy Ranboo’s holiday merch, but I’ve seen the snowglobe issues. There were also issues of the hat not fitting. Some of Tubbo’s second release pin boxes would show up missing pins. 

Whatever is going on is extremely disappointing and I urge you to look at the thread as more and more is added to it. I think somehow this should be brought to cc’s attention, but I have no idea how (Reddit maybe, since Wilbur checks that a lot). 

I want to be clear that it seems that the cc’s are unaware of this issue. Revolt very obviously sends them quality pre-designs of the merch, things they can wear a few months ahead to hype up the merch. It seems they may also be of better quality. 

Based on what Wilbur has said in the last two streams he’s done (April 14th & 15th), it seems he’s aware of the late shipping times and seemed mildly upset by them. He contacted the team but was told the exact same things they tell customers, which is unfortunate. It seems Revolt is as equally unclear to who they partner with as they are with fans buying merch. 

I strongly advise you not purchase merch sold by Revolt in the future. This is pretty much anything under preorder with the fancy websites, Currently Phil and Wilbur do have merch shops unattached to Revolt, I’ve bought merch from them, they’re safe. 

Just be weary buying from Revolt. 

[imfluentinfangirlandgay]

Surprise Adoption - Ch 8

Ingo held the crying Dawn in his arms, considering his options. He decided right then and there. She would stay with him and Emmet for the time being.

Word Count: ~2000

It had been a month since Dawn’s arrival at the twins’ apartment, and they decided they wanted to do something to show her how much they enjoyed having her around. She had opted to stay home that day, which allowed the brothers some time at the station to prepare. They had ensured to leave Gliscor and many of the Joltik with her to ensure she didn’t get bored (though she had her team with her, so that was doubtful) as they went to work, speaking about what they could possibly do. Both brothers wanted to make sure that evening was a special one. 

The station was packed. It seemed odd to Ingo, as it was only a Thursday afternoon, but it seemed that the station was bustling with people, more so than usual. He was hardly able to weave through the crowd to ensure that the correct trains showed up at the correct times, much less ensure safe boarding. His voice was loud enough to carry over the crowd, thankfully, drowning out most other noise in order to be heard. 

Despite the odd conditions of the day, nothing stuck out extraordinarily. He spoke with Emmet, checked in with their niece at lunchtime and ensured she was alright, ran the Singles Line, and then met up with Emmet to do a few runs of the Multi Line. By the time they were prepared to head home for the night, it was already 8:15 pm. The sun had set not too long ago, the afterimage of the celestial body casting a few last-minute warm tones on the undersides of clouds as it slipped away. 

The pair stopped by a local bakery as they set off for home, also carting a little surprise. They were not the only ones who knew that today was the one-month anniversary of her arrival in Unova, after all. 

They said nothing as they stepped up to the door, Emmet bouncing excitedly on his heels and flapping his hands as Ingo placed the key in the lock, twisting the knob open and entering their apartment with a shout of, “Dawn? We have arrived!” 

“In here!” her voice called from the kitchen. Something amazing permeated Ingo’s nose as he let Emmet in, shutting the door behind them both as they quickly undressed from their uniforms. Ingo took one of the items and laid it gently in the closet, out of sight for the moment. Emmet hid another in his pocket. The last one they carried in a box into the kitchen to greet their niece. 

“Dawn!” Emmet’s voice rang out as she giggled suddenly from the other room. He must have tackled her in a hug. 

“H-hi, Uncle Emmet!”

“Hello, Dawn. Was your day eventful?” Ingo asked as he strode in, leaving the box on the counter and ruffling her hair, wondering what that fantastic smell was. 

“Not too bad. What about you guys?” She was leaning against the oven, purposefully faced so that her body covered the window and did not allow them to see inside. Ingo noted that the oven was not on. 

“It was verrry busy,” Emmet said with a sigh. 

“Indeed. It felt like there were twice the number of usual passengers today,” Ingo added. He loosened his tie and removed it, unbuttoning the top button of his shirt. Emmet did the same. 

“Well, hopefully tonight won’t be as busy,” the girl said. “I have a surprise for you guys.” 

“Oh?” Ingo asked, raising his eyebrows. Emmet’s face brightened, no longer looking as tired. His brother cocked his head. 

“We did too!” Ingo stared at him before he could say more, though his mirth never left him. 

“Yeah! Uh.” She looked around awkwardly for a second. A Joltik nudged her neck in encouragement and she ducked down, opening the cold oven and grabbing something out. “I made this for you guys because its been a full month now.” It was a batch of cupcakes, all decorated with black and white frosting in alternating colors. On the tray, they spelled out: THANK YOU <3. “I wanted to say thanks for taking me in and letting me stay with you. I know I’m not the easiest person to care for and I-”

She was cut off by a bear hug from Emmet. Ingo managed to get the pastries out of Dawn’s hands before it happened, placing them gently on the counter and hugging her, too. Emmet was vibrating. “We have things for you!” Emmet said merrily. He was grinning broadly. He sprung apart and raced to the counter, pulling out the box they had retrieved. It had a clear panel on the top and it gave view to an ornately decorated cake, which simply read, BRAVO! WE ARE SO VERRRY PROUD OF YOU. “It is pinap flavor! Your favorite,” Emmet added. 

“The cupcakes are an even split of chocolate for Uncle Ingo and coffee for you, Uncle Emmet. I think those are your favorites?” She phrased the sentence more like a question than a statement. 

Emmet set the cake back on the counter as he rejoined their hug, grinning broadly. Even Ingo had cracked a small smile. “Thank you, Dawn. It is very thoughtful of you,” Ingo said. “We have something for you from Drayden and something from Elesa, as well. They were not able to make it here for the evening, but they wished to send you something for the occasion as well.” Emmet bounced up and raced to the closet before Ingo could say anything, making him chuckle. He returned within seconds. 

“Close your eyes, Dawn!” he called out. She did as he asked. He entered the room with two wrapped items, both finished off with a ribbon. He set one of the objects into each of her hands. “Open!” Emmet clapped as Ingo stood back a little to allow her to examine the items. 

One was a rather decently-sized box. 

The other was a bright red Pokeball with a deep pink ribbon tied around it. 

Dawn looked between them, trying to decide which to open first. She picked the Pokeball. SHe gently set the box down on the ground and unraveled the ribbon softly, making sure not to rip it. Once she had, she pressed the button, aiming for an empty spot in the dining room. The beam of light emerged as the ball opened, expanding and morphing into a familiar shape to the twins. As the light faded, leaving a creature behind, it chirped at them. 

Their eyes widened. 

The little Axew took them all in with large eyes, the satin pink bow on its neck that matched the one on its ball prominent. It stood uncertainly on two wobbly hind legs. Dawn knelt down, holding out her hand as her eyes sparkled. It chirped again as it toddled forward, half-falling, half-nuzzling into her hand. Its purple eyes looked up at her as she cooed at it. “Oh my Sinnoh, she’s so cute. Her big purple eyes and she’s so small and how old is she? There’s no way she’s that old.” 

“That’s a shiny.” Emmet’s voice was flat as ever, but his face showed the pure shock he felt. Dawn paused in her petting of the infant for half a second before she resumed, a new fervor in her movements. She noted something on the bow. Her hands removed the soft fabric, carefully taking and unraveling the paper attached with one hand, using the other to heft the Axew into her lap. 

“Dear Dawn,” she read aloud, “Today marks a full month since your arrival to Nimbasa to stay with my nephews. In honor of this, I wish for you to have this infant bred recently. I have been showing Iris the joys of rearing infant Axew and this one was a special surprise that she insisted I should send. It is a shiny, with an ability known as Mold-Breaker. Raise it well, and it may be one of the most loyal companions you will ever have. 

We hope that things have been going well for you. You are always a joy to see and Iris especially talks of you all the time. We hope to come visit you all soon, but in the meantime, take care of this little one for me. Ask the twins if you have any questions. I gave them their Haxorus when she was a baby, too, so they have some experience with dragons! 

Let us know if you need anything at all. Make sure to eat regularly and battle fiercely! 

-Your Great-Uncle Drayden.” 

Her voice was choking up by the end of the letter. Axew had begun to drift off in her lap from all the excitement. Ingo and Emmet knelt beside her, each smiling in their own way, as Emmet presented the other box to her. She took it tearfully and carefully unwrapped it, untying the yellow ribbon and opening the white cardboard to peer inside. 

She lifted out a jacket. It looked exactly like the work uniforms the twins wore, except for a couple key points. The main color was gray, for one. The buttons on it were still silver. The jacket was clearly meant for a more feminine figure, as the collar was not quite as tall as the twins’ and the jacket was cut off just below the hips instead of down by the calves. She stared at it for a long moment, seeing her own name stitched into the silver lining. 

“Try it on, Dawn,” Ingo encouraged as he took the Axew into his hands, holding it gently like a human baby so that it did not wake. Dawn shakily stood up and put her arms in the coat. It fit her perfectly. The cuffs were not quite as wide as the twins’ either, though they were still round and long, showing off brown and gray stripes. Emmet adjusted the collar for her and smoothed out the jacket before stepping back, letting her feel it for herself. She stared down at it in astonishment. She noticed another piece of paper in the box. She grabbed it and read it again. 

“Dawn,

It’s been a whole month now. I gotta say, you’re super cool to hang around and the fact that you can accomplish feats like making the twins eat more than once a day blows my mind. I wanted to send you an Emolga but I heard Drayden and Iris were already sending you a Pokemon and I didn’t wanna steal their thunder (hehe) so I decided on this. I still haven’t battled you yet, but I really want to sometime. 

The jacket is designed to retain body heat, reflect basic attacks, and is sturdy and machine washable. Just about any minor cut or scrape should be able to roll off this thing. I invented the fabric to help the twins not die on their subway, but I think it works here, too. (Still a little unsure how Ingo managed to shred it in Hisui.)

Hope to see ya around soon! 

-Aunt(!) Elesa.” 

She stared down at the coat again, feeling the cuffs and the linings. Her smile was wobbling with tears as she looked back up at the twins, her eyes dancing. Both brothers hugged her again, more tenderly. Dawn collected the sleeping Axew into her arms once again, accepting the hug. 

“I-I need to thank everyone. These are such nice gifts.” She sniffled and giggled. “Including you guys. And not just for the cake I’m going to stuff my face with later, but everything. Thank you guys so much.” 

“Of course, Dawn,” Ingo said softly, so as not to wake the Pokemon. “We are all happy you came. It is nice to have other people around.” Emmet nodded along, his smile almost blinding. “We should get the infant into a proper sleeping place before we eat our cake,” Ingo added. “I think we may have Haxorus’s old bed from when she was an Axew. She can sleep in your room, with your team. It is imperative that they bond early so she learns who her family is.” 

Dawn nuzzled the baby with her nose. “Okay. Let’s do it.” 

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[versadies]

hi dan! how are you? congrats on 1k!! for the prompt event, can i request libra + kaeya + fluffy angst in which the reader realizes kaeya is their soulmate when he lies, on a very stressful day for both of them, about them never being a bother when they need a favor, so reader starts avoiding him bc they become unsure on how to act around him? either hc or drabble is fine. thank you so much! have a great day!

bothersome (hc scenario)

penpal: i'm doing fine (other than getting ready for school in a few weeks), hope this is to ur liking anon ! have a great day as well <<3

prompt: libra the scale, lie-tattoo soulmate au

pairing/s: kaeya x gn!reader

sypnosis: hc on how you avoiding kaeya after finding out he’s your soulmate.

includes: fluff/slight-angst, short fic, mentions of alcohol, reader overthinking, mentions of injuries

you need a drink. immediately.

when being assigned to a high class commission for the first time, you honestly thought things will go smoothly, even with reckless pallad tagging along.

but then the two of you came across to three ruin guards, causing you to be ditched by pallad and left you alone to deal with the three mechanics.

by the time you came back to mondstadt, you were filled with bandages covering your bruises and injuries littered all over your body, earning concerned stares from people as you pass by.

you could care less from the attention you received, all that was running through your mind is that you weren't able to complete a once-in-a-lifetime commission and missed your opportunity.

katheryne was more than happy to at least reward you for slaying the three ruin guards that was apparently a commission. despite getting paid by the end of the day, you were still disappointed.

as soon as you claimed your rewards from katheryne, you immediately took a visit to angel's share, hoping to find a certain man to chat with.

your eyes brightens when you spotted kaeya sitting on one of the stools in front of the counter.

"hey," you called, causing kaeya to look at you as he watches you sitting down beside him.

"rough day?" he asks with a teasing grin, gesturing your treated wounds. "how was it?"

you let out a sigh, quietly asking charles to give you your usual drink. "the commission? what can i say if i didn't do it at all?"

kaeya pats your shoulder reassuringly, taking a sip of his drink before putting it down. "care to entertain me with the details?" he asks.

"ruin guards." you said nonchalantly, thanking charles– who gave you your drink. "they all suddenly appeared and my partner ditched me."

he sighs dramatically in response. "what a coward."

you nodded in agreement. "indeed. what about you? got a rough day too?"

kaeya simply shrugs in response. "that's for you to not find out and for me to only know." he replied, swirling his drink around.

you stayed silent for a while, looking down at your glass with a blank look on your face.

now that you think about it, there was one certain commission with a generous reward that you could ask katheryne to let you do– not to mention the fact that with kaeya's help, you can definitely finish this commission in no time.

"say kaeya," you look at the calvary captain curiously, your eyes lands on his. "you don't mind if i ask you a favor, right?"

"are we going to bury or burn the body?" he asks jokingly.

he lets out a light laugh when he sees you rolling your eyes at his joke. "i'm merely jesting. you don't have to worry about being bothersome to me, you can always ask me for a favor."

you smile gratefully at your friend. "you have my thanks, kaeya."

as the both of you continue chatting the night away while enjoying your drink, you couldn't help but notice an itch in your covered arm, your hand constantly scratching on the bandage with irritation.

it wasn't until you removed the bandages the next day when you realized why it was itchy.

you were sure the words imprinted on your arm would haunt you for a while.

"you don't have to worry about being bothersome to me, you can always ask me for a favor."

you stared at the words on your arm for a while, unsure how to feel with your recent discovery. surely this was just a coincidence, right? but what if it wasn't–?

does this mean.. he finds you bothersome and annoying?

you frowned, your hands brushing against the tattoo whilst ignoring the pain from its touch. perhaps you should avoid him and not bother him unless necessary.

you let out a sigh, grabbing the new bandages you got from the cathedral and start wrapping it around your injuries, the thoughts about kaeya's true feelings about you never left your mind.

since then, you started avoiding areas where you know you'll encounter the man, whether it'd be angel's share, the knights of favonius headquarters, and even the entrance of mondstadt, deciding to go to the right entrance of the city and go to katheryne from there during the morning.

you were quite proud that you managed to get away from the calvary captain's sight, not minding the new change of routes and the hindrances you had to do in order to avoid kaeya like a plague.

this went on for a week. you no longer heard of the man and he the same. every time you see at least one glance of his familiar figure, you would immediately head to the opposite direction, ignoring him calling out your name should he notice your presence nearby. you're honestly grateful he didn't try to chase you.

even though you're okay with avoiding him, you couldn't stop your head from thinking about kaeya, wondering if he's now happy that you're no longer bothering him.

it didn't help that you've been debating with yourself on whether or not you should tell kaeya, a person who finds his own soulmate bothersome, that you're his soulmate.

deep down, you knew it was best to tell him, he deserves to know after all. besides, it's not like the world will end if you tell him, right?

you were simply walking around windwail highland– looking for certain items for a commission when you spotted him standing not too far away.

your breath hitches when you see him looking at you direction, spotting you right away. oh crap.

without another thought, you immediately turned away and started jogging to the opposite direction, praying to barbatos that kaeya isn't followin–

"my, i didn't know you'd be a slow runner." you felt your heart jump from kaeya's sudden voice, causing you to stop your tracks in surpirse when you see kaeya jogging alongside you and stopped as well.

he chuckles at your reaction, crossing his arms with a stilled-grin plastered on his face. "so now you're not running away from me anymore?"

you tried to walk away after those words, only for kaeya to suddenly grip your wrist and stop you from going anywhere.

"what do you want, kaeya?" you ask calmly, trying not to look at the man behind you as you stare at the direction ahead.

his grip on your wrist didn't falter. "care to tell me why you're suddenly avoiding me like i'm a plague? did i say something wrong?" he asks.

"it's not that."

you stayed silent, now unsure what to say. you knew that you'd expose yourself right away the moment you lie in front of his face.

you then sighed, looking down at the ground in defeat. it's now or never.

"am i... a bother to you, kaeya?" you questioned, scared of his response. will he lie again?

his grin faltered, taken back by surprise from your question. "what?"

you turn behind to look at kaeya, causing him to let go of your wrist. "i... i need you to be honest with me. am i a bother to you?"

you watched as kaeya stayed silent, looking at you with a serious look. "what made you think of such thing–?"

"remember when i asked you if you wouldn't mind me asking you a favor?" you asked, furrowing your eyebrows. "do you remember what you said to me during that night?"

before kaeya could say anything, you slowly raise your arm to his eye level and lifted up your sleeves, showing him the exact words that he remembered saying on that night.

his grin completely disappeared.

"when i saw this the day after that, i had so many things to think about. i thought i should be happy that you're my soulmate– but why did... why did it had to be because of this lie?"

"y/n i–"

"i avoided you because i thought you think of me as a hindrance to you and i didn't.. i didn't want to bother you and your duty as the calvary captain." you explained, your shoulders slumped. "but i kept thinking if i told you that i'm your soulmate, you would've been disappo–"

your eyes widens when you felt his arms wrapping around you out of nowhere.

"i'm not disappointed that you're my soulmate, y/n." he said, hugging you in comfort. "if anything, i'm... relieved."

you furrowed your eyebrows. "what about... what about the favor? why did you lie–"

"i lied because it was a stressful day for me as well," he clarified. "yes, i did find favors bothersome at that time, but i never find you bothersome, so i had no choice but to say i'm okay with your favors because it's from you."

you felt yourself slowly relaxed when you didn't feel any itchy feeling around your body, letting out a sigh in relief as you continue to let kaeya hug you to his content.

"so does this mean.. you want me as your soulmate?" you ask hesitantly.

he smiles genuinely for the first time, holding onto you tighter and nodded.

"yes."