#Lux-Pain-Project

[theetherealbloom]

You Got Me So In Love, I've Never Been This Possessive

Summary: While on a scenic boat trip along the coasts of Malta, you bask in the crystal-clear waters, and laughter with Pedro’s cast and crew. Despite his injured arm keeping him on the boat, Pedro can’t keep his eyes off you.

Paring: Pedro Pascal x F!Reader

Warnings: Established Relationship, TOOTH-ROTTING FLUFF, Slight Nudity, Slight Angst, Swearing, Anxiety, Cheesy Dialogue, Romance, Kissing, Real People Fiction, Cameras, Swimming, Bikini, Flirting, Teasing, Cast, Pedro Fell Down The Stairs, ER visit, Hurt-To-Comfort, Mild Spice, Banter, Idk Spanish so the terms might be wrong but I'm trying my best

Word Count: 5K

A/N: GOOD MORNING CHICKENS!!! Y’know how I said there would be a part two? Yup. Also, I know no one asked, but back in High School, I fell down the stairs… A LOT. Like every year for six years. No major bones were broken, only a sprained ankle every time I fell down the stairs, so in a way I guess I was lucky. PSA to always hold the hand railing, and like Pedro said, it can happen to anyone!

Side note: I’m dyslexic and English isn’t my first language! So I apologize in advance for the spelling and/or grammatical errors. As always, reblogs, comments, and likes are always appreciated. Thank you and happy reading!

Song: Te Quiero by KISS OF LIFE

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PASCAL RESIDENCE, CHILE — AFTERNOON  

The sun bathed the Pascal family home in a golden glow, the air filled with the scent of freshly baked empanadas and the gentle hum of conversation. You were seated on the patio, your legs tucked under you, watching as Pedro animatedly retold a story from his teenage years. His siblings—Javiera, Lux, and Nicolás—listened with rapt attention, their laughter bubbling over when Pedro’s dad chimed in with his version of events, insisting Pedro had exaggerated again.  

“Exaggerated?” Pedro placed a hand on his chest, feigning offense. “I would never! Everything I say is 100% true and scientifically proven.”  

“Scientifically proven to be full of nonsense,” Nicolás teased, earning a round of laughter.  

You couldn’t help but grin, soaking in the easy camaraderie of the family. Pedro’s hand found yours under the table, his fingers lacing with yours in a way that felt like second nature. He glanced at you, his dark eyes soft with a love so deep it made your chest tighten.  

“Tell them,” Pedro said, turning to you with an exaggeratedly serious expression. “Tell them I’m not lying.”  

You bit back a laugh, tilting your head in mock consideration. “Well… the story did sound a bit too good to be true.”  

“Et tu, mi amor?” he groaned, but the corners of his mouth quirked up in a smile.  

Javiera, ever the ringleader, stood and declared, “Enough storytelling! Let’s put her to the test. If she’s going to be part of this family, she needs to learn brisca.”  

Pedro leaned in closer, his breath warm against your ear. “Fair warning: They’ll gang up on you.”  

“Good thing I’ve got you on my side,” you murmured, a soft blush rising to your cheeks.  

“I’ll always be on your side,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to your temple that sent a shiver down your spine.  

A FEW HOURS LATER…  

The sun had dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the yard. Pedro had wandered inside to grab more drinks for everyone while you stayed on the patio with Lux, discussing her latest project.  

The sound of a crash shattered the peaceful air. You froze, the glass in Lux’s hand slipping and shattering on the ground.  

“Pedro!” you gasped, bolting toward the house.  

Inside, you found him crumpled at the base of the stairs, his face pale and contorted in pain. Nicolás was already at his side, his hands hovering uncertainly as if afraid to make things worse.  

“Call an ambulance!” you shouted, your voice shaking as you knelt beside Pedro.  

He looked up at you, his breaths shallow and uneven. “I’m okay, I’m okay,” he said through gritted teeth, but his wince betrayed him.  

“You’re not okay,” you said, your hands trembling as you gently brushed the hair from his forehead. “What happened?”  

“I missed the last step,” he muttered, trying to manage a weak smile. “Guess I’m not as graceful as I thought.”  

“Pedro, this isn’t funny,” you whispered, tears pricking your eyes.  

Javiera appeared with the phone pressed to her ear, speaking rapidly to the emergency dispatcher. Lux crouched beside you, her face pale as she reached for Pedro’s uninjured hand.  

“Help’s on the way,” Javiera assured you, her voice steady despite the panic in her eyes.  

Minutes felt like hours as you waited for the ambulance. You kept your focus on Pedro, your hand gripping his tightly. “Just breathe, okay? I’m right here. You’re going to be fine.”  

THE ER — EVENING

The antiseptic smell of the hospital hit you as you paced the waiting room, your heart pounding in your chest. Pedro had been whisked away for X-rays, and you felt helpless, the absence of his hand in yours leaving you cold.  

When the doctor finally emerged, you rushed to meet him, Javiera and Nicolás close behind.  

“Mr. Pascal has a broken arm,” the doctor explained. “It’s a clean break, but he’ll need surgery to set the bone properly. We’re scheduling it for late January.”  

Relief and worry collided in your chest. “Can I see him?” you asked, your voice small.  

The doctor nodded, and you followed the nurse to Pedro’s room. He was sitting up in bed, his arm in a temporary sling, his face pale but his smile still intact.  

“Hey, troublemaker,” he said, his voice softer than usual.  

You crossed the room in a few quick steps, perching on the edge of his bed. “Don’t you ever scare me like that again,” you said, your voice breaking as tears spilled over.  

Pedro reached for your hand with his good arm, his thumb brushing soothing circles over your knuckles. “I’m sorry, mi amor,” he murmured, his eyes glistening.  

You leaned forward, pressing your forehead to his. “I thought… I thought something worse happened. I couldn’t breathe until I saw you.”  

“I’m here,” he whispered, his voice steady despite the pain. “And I’ll be fine. Especially with you by my side.”  

You kissed him gently, pouring every ounce of love and relief into the touch. As his lips moved against yours, you felt the fear begin to fade, replaced by the overwhelming gratitude that he was still here with you.  

“I’ll take care of you,” you promised, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes. “Whatever you need, I’m here.”  

Pedro smiled, his gaze tender. “I don’t deserve you.”  

“Don’t be ridiculous,” you said, brushing a tear from your cheek. “You deserve the world.”  

And in that moment, surrounded by beeping monitors and the sterile walls of the hospital, it felt like nothing else mattered but the two of you.

FORT RICASOLI, MALTA — DAY  

The sun was high over Fort Ricasoli, the Mediterranean breeze carrying a salty tang as waves crashed against the nearby shore. The reconstructed Roman Colosseum loomed grandly in the fort, its grandeur a perfect backdrop for the epic Gladiator II production. You stepped out of the transport van, sunglasses shielding your eyes from the bright Maltese sun, a bag slung over your shoulder filled with Pedro’s essentials—medication, snacks, and a cold water bottle you knew he’d try to avoid drinking unless reminded.  

As you walked toward the set, Pedro spotted you first, his face lighting up in a way that made your heart ache with affection. He was seated in the shade near the makeup tent, his left arm encased in a royal blue cast that made him look both ridiculous and endearing.  

“Hi,” you called, setting your bag down beside him. “I’m here to be your nurse.”  

Pedro’s grin widened, his dark eyes softening. “You’re more than my nurse. You’re my lifesaver. And I love you so much.”  

You rolled your eyes playfully, leaning down to press a quick kiss to his forehead. “How’s the arm?”  

“It’s humiliating,” he muttered, holding up the cast as if it were a mark of disgrace. “Everyone keeps staring at it. Or laughing. Or both.”  

“There’s nothing humiliating about needing help once in a while, my love,” you said gently, brushing a curl from his forehead. “Besides, it’s a great conversation starter.”  

“Oh, yeah. Real smooth. ‘Hi, I’m Pedro Pascal, and I fell down a flight of stairs like a medieval jester.’”  

You smothered a laugh just as Joseph Quinn sauntered by, pausing dramatically to give Pedro an exaggerated salute. “How’s the mighty warrior today? Still battling gravity, I see.”  

“Go away,” Pedro groaned, waving his good arm dismissively.  

“You’re a walking PSA now,” Fred Hechinger added as he passed. “Don’t text and walk down stairs, kids!”  

Denzel Washington approached next, shaking his head with mock solemnity. “And here I thought I was the one who’d pull a stunt like that.”  

“Traitors,” Pedro muttered, pulling you closer as if you could shield him from the teasing.  

Coco, his ever-sassy hair stylist, smirked as she fixed his curls. “Just make sure she doesn’t trip over your ego next.”  

“Coco!” Pedro whined, but his cheeks flushed, his pout making him look boyish and undeniably adorable.  

Ridley Scott ambled over, his tone a mix of concern and exasperation. “Take it easy, Pedro. You’re not 25 anymore.”  

“Gee, thanks, Ridley,” Pedro huffed, pulling you against him as if seeking comfort.  

The day pressed on, the heat making Pedro’s clinginess somehow both unbearable and heart-meltingly sweet. Despite the steady teasing from the cast and crew, he stuck close to you like a second shadow whenever he wasn’t on set, his blue cast drawing as much attention as his ever-present pout.  

During a break, he tugged at your hand, a soft whine slipping from his lips. “Go with me?”  

You glanced up from the book you were pretending to read. “Go where?”  

“Craft services,” he said, gesturing toward the shaded area where snacks and cold drinks awaited. “I’m starving, and I need moral support.”  

“You literally just had a protein bar,” you teased, but stood anyway, slipping your hand into his.  

“As long as you hold my hand,” you added with a smirk, letting him lead the way.  

His good hand entwined with yours, his thumb brushing lazy circles over your skin as you walked. “You know I’m not letting go, right?”  

“I wouldn’t expect anything less.”  

Reaching the craft services tent, Pedro made a beeline for the iced lemonade, his cast making the process comically awkward. You reached over to help him hold the cup steady as he poured, ignoring the amused glances from the crew around you.  

“I got it,” he insisted, though his pouty tone betrayed his frustration.  

“Sure you do, Mr. Dexterity,” you teased. “Here, let me.”  

As you steadied the cup, Paul Mescal appeared beside you, a mischievous grin plastered across his face. “What’s it like being Pedro’s personal assistant and cuddle therapist?”  

Pedro narrowed his eyes, his body shifting slightly as if to shield you from Paul’s teasing. “She’s an angel,” he declared, his tone defensive. “Unlike all of you degenerates.”  

Paul laughed, grabbing a handful of chips. “Touché.”  

Connie Nielsen joined the growing group, her warm smile softening the teasing atmosphere. “An angel with the patience of a saint,” she agreed. “He’s lucky to have you.”  

You squeezed Pedro’s hand, glancing up at him with a playful glint in your eye. “Oh, I know.”  

Pedro leaned down, his voice low and sweet in your ear. “Remind me to buy you something shiny and expensive later.”  

“I’ll hold you to that,” you whispered back, brushing a kiss to his cheek just as Coco walked by, her ever-present smirk firmly in place.  

“Are we making out by the lemonade now?” she quipped, adjusting Pedro’s wig as she passed. “Just don’t knock over the drink dispenser, Casanova.”  

Pedro groaned, but you could see the corner of his mouth twitching, betraying his amusement.  

When Pedro was shooting, you stayed nearby, perched under an umbrella with a bottle of water and a timer set for his next dose of medication. He’d been restless all morning, constantly checking in between takes to make sure you were still there.  

The moment the director called cut, Pedro scanned the area until his eyes landed on you. A small smile tugged at his lips as he made a beeline toward you, his costume slightly dusty from the action sequence.  

“Hydrate,” you ordered the moment he reached you, holding out the water bottle.  

He wrinkled his nose but took it, his good hand struggling to unscrew the cap. You wordlessly reached over to help, earning a sheepish look from him.  

“You know,” he said after a long sip, “you’re bossier than Ridley.”  

“You love it,” you countered, wiping the sweat from his brow with a small towel you’d tucked into your bag.  

Pedro’s lips curved into a soft smile, his gaze lingering on you. “I do,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “A little too much.”  

Your heart squeezed at the tenderness in his tone, and you reached up to brush a stray curl from his forehead. “Good. Now go back to work. Ridley’s glaring at us.”  

He glanced over his shoulder, spotting the director gesturing for him to return. “Fine,” he grumbled, but not before pressing a quick kiss to your forehead.  

As he walked back toward the set, Ridley shook his head, a faint smile on his face. “That woman of yours has you wrapped around her little finger.”  

Pedro shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips. “Don’t I know it.”  

THE XARA PALACE RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX, MALTA — EVENING  

The day had taken its toll on both of you, but by the time you returned to the cozy luxury of the hotel suite, Pedro’s exhaustion only seemed to amplify his need for affection. As soon as the door clicked shut behind you, he flopped dramatically onto the small couch, casting a forlorn look your way.  

“Come here,” he said, his good arm extended toward you like a lifeline.  

You chuckled, slipping off your sandals. “I thought you were tired.”  

“I am,” he replied, his lips twitching into a pout. “But I’ll sleep better if you’re right here.”  

Shaking your head fondly, you joined him on the couch, only to be pulled down against his side the moment you were close enough.  

“It’s too hot for this,” you teased, trying—and failing—to push against his firm hold.  

“Don’t care,” Pedro murmured, nuzzling into the curve of your neck as if you were the only source of comfort in the world. “You make everything better.”  

You sighed softly, your resolve melting as your fingers found their way into his curls. They were still slightly damp from his post-shoot shower, and you gently combed through them, marveling at how they always seemed to spring back into place.  

“I think that’s the heatstroke talking,” you quipped, though your voice was warm with affection.  

“No,” he said, his voice muffled against your skin. “That’s the love of my life talking.”  

Your hand stilled for a moment, the weight of his words settling over you like a gentle wave. You pulled back slightly to look at him, but Pedro didn’t let you get far. His warm brown eyes met yours, brimming with sincerity that made your breath catch.  

“You’re insufferable,” you said, though the tremor in your voice betrayed how deeply his words had affected you.  

“And you’re perfect,” he countered, his tone so soft and certain it made your heart ache in the best way.  

Your cheeks warmed, and you leaned down to press a tender kiss to his temple. “You’re lucky I love you,” you whispered, your lips brushing against his skin.  

Pedro grinned, his good arm tightening around you as he pulled you even closer. “I’m the luckiest man alive.”  

For a while, the two of you sat in a comfortable silence, the soft hum of the air conditioning blending with the distant sounds of the Maltese evening outside. Pedro’s breathing began to slow, his head resting heavily against your shoulder as he drifted off. His cast was awkwardly propped up on his chest, and you carefully adjusted a pillow beneath it, not wanting him to wake up sore.  

As you gazed down at him, his face relaxed and peaceful in sleep, your heart swelled with a familiar ache—one born of overwhelming love. He might’ve been clingy and dramatic, prone to complaints about his cast and the heat, but he was also tender and selfless, with a way of making you feel like the most cherished person in the world.  

You traced the curve of his jaw with the tips of your fingers, marveling at how even in his sleep, his hold on you never loosened. He was steady and constant in a way that made you feel safe, loved, and utterly at home.  

He might’ve fallen down the stairs, but it felt like you were the one falling—deeper in love with him every single day.  

Later that night, as the two of you lay tangled together in the king-sized bed, Pedro stirred, his voice groggy but laced with warmth.  

“Are you still awake?”  

“Barely,” you murmured, your head resting against his uninjured shoulder. “Why?”  

He shifted slightly, his fingers grazing over your arm in lazy circles. “Just wanted to say… thank you.”  

“For what?”  

“For taking care of me. For putting up with me being clingy. For loving me even when I’m ridiculous,” he said, his voice soft but earnest.  

You smiled in the darkness, pressing a kiss to his chest. “It’s not putting up with you, Pedro. It’s just loving you. And it’s the easiest thing I’ve ever done.”  

His breath hitched, and he leaned down to press a lingering kiss to your forehead. “I don’t deserve you,” he whispered, his words carrying the weight of unspoken emotion.  

“You deserve everything,” you replied, your voice firm despite the tears prickling at your eyes.  

Pedro’s arms tightened around you, and in that moment, the world outside the four walls of your suite seemed to fade away. There was only the two of you, tangled together in love and gratitude, the promise of another day together stretching out before you like a gift.  

And as you drifted off to sleep, cradled in his embrace, you couldn’t imagine a place you’d rather be. 

COASTS OF MALTA — MORNING  

The morning sun bathed the harbor in a soft, golden glow as you and Pedro stepped onto the pristine deck of the yacht, greeted by the lively chatter of his castmates and the crew. The day promised adventure—an exploration of Malta’s dazzling coastlines, including the famed Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the secretive caves on Comino. The air smelled of salt and freedom, and the water, impossibly blue and inviting, stretched out like a gem-laden carpet before you.  

Pedro lingered close to you, his blue cast slung in a casual sling, though it didn’t stop him from giving your hand a light squeeze. He leaned down, his voice low and teasing.  

"Don’t get too excited," he murmured with a grin, his dark eyes gleaming. "You’ll make me look bad."  

You bumped your shoulder into his, rolling your eyes. "I can’t help it if I’m more fun than you."  

"More fun? Or more distracting?" His gaze flicked briefly to the bikini peeking out from your cover-up, his expression bordering on predatory before he quickly masked it with a playful smirk.  

“Behave, Pascal,” you teased, your cheeks warming under his intense stare.  

As the boat cruised toward its first stop, the Blue Lagoon, the mood was light and cheerful. Connie and Fred lounged near the bow, animatedly swapping stories with the crew, their laughter carrying over the soft sound of the waves. Coco flitted around like a hummingbird with her camera, capturing candid shots of the lively group. Near the railing, Paul was attempting to teach Denzel a ridiculous dance move, the two of them tripping over their own feet and causing more chaos than rhythm.  

You stood near Pedro, feeling the sun’s warmth on your skin, the gentle breeze teasing at your cover-up. A playful grin spread across your face as you untied the knot at your waist, sliding the fabric off and tossing it onto a nearby lounge chair. The vibrant bikini beneath was perfectly chosen—bright and bold against your skin, hugging your curves in a way that made you feel confident and beautiful.  

Pedro, seated comfortably in the shade with his injured arm resting on a cushion, froze mid-sip of his drink. His gaze locked onto you, his eyes darkening as they traced every inch of your form. Appreciation was clear in his expression, but it was the simmering heat in his stare that sent a thrill down your spine.  

You stretched your arms over your head, feigning oblivion to his attention as you joined Coco and Paul in their antics. The movement made your waist curve just enough to draw a quiet groan from Pedro’s lips, which didn’t go unnoticed by Coco. She smirked, leaning down to whisper as she passed him.  

“Subtle,” she teased, her voice dripping with amusement.  

Pedro didn’t even attempt to hide his grin. His eyes stayed glued to you as he shrugged, unapologetic. “Can you blame me?”  

Coco snorted. “Not one bit. But maybe cool it unless you want everyone else to notice how thirsty  you are.”  

“Let them,” Pedro muttered, mostly to himself. His tongue darted out to wet his lips as he watched you laugh with Paul, the way your body moved under the bright sun making it nearly impossible for him to look away.  

When you caught his eye and shot him a playful wink, his good hand flexed against the armrest of his chair, the urge to pull you back to him almost too strong to resist.  

Later, as you leaned over the edge of the boat, peering down at the water with Paul pointing out fish, Pedro’s voice rumbled low behind you.  

“You’re enjoying yourself, aren’t you?”  

You turned to find him standing close, his cast resting awkwardly at his side. “I am. The water’s beautiful,” you said with a smile, but his eyes weren’t on the water.  

“They’re not the only thing,” he murmured, his gaze dropping to the curve of your hips, the dip of your waist.  

Heat bloomed on your cheeks, but you couldn’t help the grin that tugged at your lips. “Pedro Pascal,” you teased, stepping closer. “Are you flirting with me on a boat in front of all your castmates?”  

“Flirting?” He scoffed, his voice rich with amusement. “I’m just admiring. Can’t a man admire his girlfriend?”  

“Girlfriend?” you repeated, arching a brow.  

He smirked, leaning in just enough for his breath to ghost over your skin. “The girlfriend,” he corrected, his voice dropping into a tone that sent a shiver racing through you despite the heat.  

You bit your lip, glancing around at the others, who were too distracted to notice the charged moment. “Behave yourself,” you whispered, though your heart raced at the way his good hand brushed lightly against your hip.  

He grinned, leaning back with an exaggerated sigh. “I’m trying, but you’re not making it easy, sweetheart.”  

The way he said it, rough and low, had your stomach doing flips. The teasing sparkle in his eyes told you he knew exactly the effect he was having on you—and he wasn’t the least bit sorry about it.

When the boat anchored near the Blue Lagoon, you practically bounced with excitement. “I’m going in!”  

Pedro chuckled as you grabbed your snorkeling gear, pausing to give him a quick kiss on the cheek. “Try not to miss me too much,” you teased before hopping off the boat with an elegant dive.  

“Not possible,” he called after you, his voice tinged with laughter.  

The water was cool and crystal clear, every ripple catching the sunlight like scattered diamonds. You swam alongside Coco and Paul, laughing as he tried to outswim everyone only to splash clumsily when Coco teased him about his lack of grace. Schools of fish darted around you, their silvery bodies glimmering in the lagoon’s shallows, and the thrill of the moment made you forget the world beyond the sparkling blue waters.  

Pedro watched from the deck, his good hand cradling a drink as his cast rested on his lap. He smiled softly, his heart swelling at the sight of you. You were so effortlessly kind, so radiant, laughing and splashing with his friends as if you’d known them your whole life.  

“She’s really something,” Ridley remarked as he joined Pedro at the shaded table.  

“Don’t I know it,” Pedro replied, his voice warm with pride.  

“She’s good for you,” Ridley said simply, his tone laced with a rare softness.  

Pedro glanced at the director, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah. She’s my soulmate.”  

Later, you clambered back onto the boat, droplets of water clinging to your skin, sparkling in the sunlight as they traced lazy paths down your arms and legs. Your grin was infectious, the kind of radiant joy that could light up an entire room—or, in this case, the deck of the boat. Pedro’s eyes were glued to you, as though the rest of the world had faded into the background.  

“Having fun?” he asked, his voice tinged with amusement but warm with affection.  

“The best,” you replied breathlessly, grabbing a towel and wringing out your hair. “You should’ve come in with us. The water is incredible.”  

He raised his cast dramatically, pulling a mock grimace. “In case you forgot, I’m a bit handicapped here.”  

“Oh, poor baby,” you teased, crouching beside him. You leaned in to press a playful kiss to his cheek, your lips lingering just long enough to make him sigh. “Next time, I’ll stay on the boat with you. We can sulk together.”  

Pedro’s good hand slid to your waist, pulling you closer before you could stand. “Don’t you dare,” he murmured, his voice a low rumble in your ear. “Watching you have fun out there is the next best thing to being in the water myself.”  

You arched a brow, motioning to your bikini with a teasing grin. “You mean you like the view.”  

Pedro’s lips curved into a slow, devilish smirk. His mouth brushed your ear as he whispered, “I love the view.”  

The heat of his words sent a shiver down your spine, making your cheeks flush. You swatted at his chest playfully before standing and tossing the towel over your shoulder. “Careful, Pascal. You’re not supposed to overheat with that cast on.”  

The boat anchored near the caves on Comino, the turquoise water shimmering like liquid glass. Pedro waved you off with a mock sternness, insisting you go explore while he stayed behind.  

“I’ll hold down the fort,” he said, settling back into his chair with a small smirk. “Don’t get lost in there.”  

You rolled your eyes, blowing him a kiss before diving into the water with Paul and Fred. The group swam toward the darkened entrance of the caves, their laughter echoing off the limestone walls. Inside, the sunlight filtered through cracks, casting dancing patterns on the rocky surfaces.  

Pedro, stuck on the boat, didn’t seem to mind in the slightest. His gaze followed you like a shadow, lingering on the curve of your body as you moved effortlessly through the water. Every so often, you glanced back at the boat, catching him watching you. He didn’t even pretend to look away, his expression soft, adoring, and entirely unguarded.  

When you returned, dripping wet and exhilarated, you plopped down beside him with a dramatic sigh, leaning your head against his shoulder.  

“You’ve been staring at me all day,” you teased, your tone light but your heart pounding at the intensity of his attention.  

Pedro turned his head slightly, brushing his lips against your temple. “Can you blame me?” he murmured. “You’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”  

The sincerity in his voice made your chest tighten. You tilted your head to meet his gaze, your hand finding his on the armrest. “You’re laying it on thick today,” you joked, though your voice wavered just slightly.  

“It’s the truth,” he countered simply, his thumb brushing across your knuckles.  

Your moment was interrupted by Paul’s exaggerated wolf whistle from across the deck. “Get a room, you two!”  

Fred chimed in with a loud groan. “Some of us are single and fragile!”  

You laughed, your head falling back briefly before you turned to Pedro, lowering your voice so only he could hear. “They’re just jealous.”  

“Damn right, they are,” Pedro said, leaning in close. “You’re all mine.”  

The possessiveness in his tone was playful but sent your pulse racing nonetheless.  

Later, as the boat rocked gently in the open waters, you sat on Pedro’s lap, his good arm wrapped securely around your waist. The sun had begun its descent, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold.  

“Pedro,” you said softly, your fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on his thigh. “Can we stay like this forever?”  

His eyes softened as he looked down at you, his smile tender. “I’d stay here with you forever if I could,” he replied, his voice filled with quiet certainty.  

The weight of his words settled over you, grounding you in the moment. You bit your lip, leaning in closer until your noses brushed. “Please just kiss me already.”  

Pedro didn’t need to be asked twice. His lips captured yours in a kiss that was slow and deliberate, full of unspoken promises and a depth of feeling that took your breath away. His hand splayed across your back, pulling you impossibly closer as the world around you seemed to disappear.  

When you finally pulled apart, his forehead rested against yours, and he let out a soft laugh. “I think you might be my soulmate,” he said, his voice a mixture of awe and certainty.  

Your eyes searched his, and for a moment, the noise of the others and the gentle lapping of the waves faded entirely. “I think you might be mine too,” you whispered, sealing the moment with another kiss.  

Laughter and chatter echoed around you, the boat a hub of joy and togetherness, but for you and Pedro, time seemed to stand still. In his arms, surrounded by the beauty of Malta and the warmth of his love, you knew you were exactly where you were meant to be.

[calchexxis]

This series is concerning what follows the story of my Lightcannon opus, Flashbangs & Frag Grenades. While Lux and Jinx are present in this, I'm adamant that the story isn't strictly about them. To me, they have earned their happy ending--they get to live peacefully and have their kid, and they deserve that after everything I put them through, lol.

No, this is about Seraphine. This is about what happens after everything ends atop Stillwater, and all the consequences therein. It's about Seraphine, Renata, and loss, and grief, and the weight of painful choices, because, in Sera and Renata's story, there has always been something of Hades & Persephone. That's truer now than even I had known it would be at the start because now we find that, bereft of her cold and oft cruel Hades, our Persephone does not flower into the softness of spring. Rather, she turns cruel, herself, and wintery. Without her quiet Lord of Riches Beneath, we learn sweet Kore is bitter, in truth, and that her humors are not as mild as we had imagined.

That is to say, then, that it's Seraphine's turn to go a bit mad.

[questionablecuttlefish]

A World Away, From Yours To Mine

Part 3 of Beyond The End, You And I Begin, A Lightcannon Story.(Season Two spoilers!)

On her long return journey from Piltover to Demacia, Radiant agent Luxanna Crownguard finds herself fascinated by a strange young woman. Haunted by chaos, joy, and a bottomless pain, Jinx is like nothing and no-one Lux has ever met. And now, Lux is tipping, ever closer, to learning something about herself she could never have imagined... But knowledge is a door that cannot be closed again. Is she ready for what she might find beyond?

[officialleehadan]

Captain Competence

Death’s Disciple

+++

It was not the done thing to admit how much Cruor enjoyed watching challenges for position within his ship’s ranks.

It was even less appropriate to admit that he had favorites, for all that it was something of an open secret among the crew. All the same, he saw no reason to actually confirm their rumors.

Besides, it was entertaining to hear the rumors that grew from the legendary crew that somehow survived his wrath for so many years. He could not hear thoughts, but his empathy, when he cared to extend it, was powerful enough that he rarely needed to. Emotions and thoughts very commonly went together. It was uncommon to find a person who felt one way, and thought another.

There were some of course, but that too, tended to show in their behavior.

With very few exceptions, humans were predictable. Those few exceptions were rarely so unpredictable that he could not imagine what they would do next.

“They’ve been following him since we left the engine rooms,” Lux said casually to Cruor as they watched the oncoming showdown. Oh, it hadn’t begun yet, but the signs were as clear as a storm rolling over Tertrain’s scrublands. Cruor could smell violence coming like the towering dust storms that stripped the dry land of everything down to the stone. “He asked we not interfere.”

“It would be inappropriate,” Cruor agreed, but allowed himself a smile behind his helmet. Lux mirrored it, the thrum of his taste for blood a faint, well-hidden thing where his magic brushed Cruor’s. He had never seen the good captain fight. No surprise. Chian did not enjoy bloodshed and preferred to solve his problems in other ways. “I think he will impress you.”

“He said there have been attempts before.”

“There have. He stands still.”

Lux hummed almost under his breath as the challenger, a tall man wearing the uniform of one of the tactical officers, closed in. Chian saw him coming and straightened, a career in the Temple fleet’s proud stance that projected both strength, and immovable calm. Cruor approved. The challenger was rattled already, both to have been seen before he was ready, and to face someone so clearly unshaken by his presence.

“Chian stretched a little in the transport,” Lux revealed as the challenger spat the traditional words to begin the challenge. It was brave of the man to risk a challenge in front of Cruor himself, but then, when challenging for the position of the captain of the Death’s Shrine, perhaps it was the option. If he were to challenge anywhere else, Cruor might think there was dishonor in it. Of course, if that happened, the Shrine herself might step in. “It was subtle, but he’s ready. Can he win?”

“That depends on him,” Cruor said, although he suspected so. Chian was a tall, man, on the thin side of things. He did not have the weight to fight someone much larger than him in a straight fight, but he also knew that, and would not risk fighting in a way he could not win. When the challenger pulled a long knife, Cruor allowed the low, painful chuckle that was all that remained of his laugh. “Ah. Unwise to draw a weapon. Chian is now free to do the same. Watch closely. Magic is not the only weapon for such a challenge.”

The fight was elegant, as befitted someone of Chian’s training, and the tactical officer’s skill. It was a closer match than expected, but only, Cruor thought, because Chian wanted to make an example. It had been almost three years since his last challenge fight, and this one was very public, in front of most of the bridge crew and several of the higher officers, Cruor himself not the least of them.

The tactical officer was a mage, and used it to fine effect. His knife sparked with flames, and he wore wide cuffs around each wrist, cut with spell-arrays. Beautiful work, to Cruor’s experienced eyes, and an advantage against many opponents.

Chian, however, was not many opponents, and he often sparred with Orrig, who was himself a very talented mage. He knew how to fight an enemy who used magic, and knew how to even the odds.

With a frankly pretty twist of his own long knife, Chian ducked under a plume of blue flame and plunged his knife unceremoniously through the wrist of his opponent. The tactical offer yowled and blasted him away with a shock of lightning that snapped through the air. Chain swore but landed it well and came at the officer again. Not before the man closed the wound in his wrist, but the healing cost time he didn’t have. Not against an enemy like Chian.

“Who’s the idiot?”

Orrig joined him and Lux in observing the fight. Like Cruor, he had seen Chian fight, and sparred with him often. He knew better than most how terrible an enemy the captain could be given cause.

“The corpse,” Cruor corrected him absently. Chian took another shock of lightning, but this time he was ready, and flung a handful of something, metal coins Cruor realized after a closer look, in the way of the magic. Lightning could not refuse the call of metal in the air, and the officer’s eyes went wide when he realized that the fistful of coins had capture his magic and turned it back on him in a web. It took him to his ground, and before he could recover, Chian was on him. “Ah. There.”

Blood sprayed across the floor as Chain, knife suddenly in his off-hand, punched the officer in the face hard enough to rock him back, and followed it with a lunge that rammed his knife up through the officer’s jaw into his brain.

The man was dead before he hit the floor.

Chian stepped back with a faint expression of distaste and caught the eye of a shocked aide nearby.

“Call maintenance and deal with this,” he said crisply with a gesture at the body on the floor. “It was a legal challenge. Ensure his beneficiaries are notified and receive whatever benefits they are entitled to. Sir, my apologies for the interruption.”

“No need,” Cruor waved the apology away easily. “A legal challenge, as you said. Are you injured?”

“No sir. It was a glancing blow.”

It wasn’t, but Cruor saw no need to question Chian’s ability to determine his own wellbeing. If he felt able to continue his shift without medical treatment, Cruor would not question him. He did extend his own senses to make sure. Chian was not prone to foolishness, but electrical magic tended to addle the senses somewhat. But no. Chian was acceptably well.

“Take your place, Captain,” he said, with the smallest nod of respect, which made Chian’s eyes go wide and brought noises of shock from the bridge crew, who generally thought him utterly without emotion or respect for his crew. Around them, the Shrine groaned her approval and the whispers of the crew grew louder. “You have proven again that is yours by right.”

+++

Death's Disciple (FULL COLLECTION)

Destiny Wakes

Crafter’s Hands (Subscriber Only!)

Signs of Magic

Captain Conundrum (Subscriber Only!)

Engine Song

Interlude of Kin

Family Introduction (Subscriber Only!)

Political Play

Over Peppers

Like a Bell

To Bed 

Proper Intake

Two Spies

First Example

Mandatory Social Time

Second Example (Subscriber Only!)

True Intelligence 

Velvet Darkness (Subscriber Only!)

Through Death 

The Storm 

Out of her Depth 

Off Ship (Subscriber Only!)

Careful Education 

Hunting Ranks

From the Reaches 

Captain Competence

Reglazed Reshifted (Subscriber Only!) (New!)

+++

MASTERLIST

[blacksites-apex-predator]

Fun fact! Lux has chronic back and joint pain!I’m not gonna lie- this is entirely because I’m projecting our own chronic pain onto them-

[greenbird809]

Ever wonder what it's like to drown? Story of opposites. There's peace in water. Like it's holding you, whispering in low tones to let it in. And every problem in the world will fade away. But then, there's this thing... in your head, and it's raging. Lighting every nerve with madness.

The river was calm, gentle as it glistened in the pale moonlight. But it was cold. Jinx hissed and retracted her toe from its reflective surface.

She stood on the bank, fickle blades of grass tickled and stained her soles with dew. Her clothes lay in a messy pile beside her and the air was sharp against her naked ashy skin. The smell of ripe fruit from a nearby berry bush swirled and blended with the pollen in the air as it wafted up her nostrils with every sharp inhale. She wrapped her arms around her middle like a blanket.

What was she doing? Washing away her sins? Drowning? Saving lives by removing a problem?

With another ragged breath, she plunged her foot into the water. It came up to her knee and felt like being swallowed. She pushed further into the river until it was licking against her collarbone. A shiver wracked her body and a gasp escaped her lips. The voices were like static and she could almost see Silco standing opposite her, his image fuzzied and faded like a recording on a scratched disk. His eyes were full of care as he beckoned her further into his embrace and-

“What are you doing?”

Jinx paused and Silco was gone. She sniffled and craned her neck back towards the bank to see Lux stood there with her arms crossed. The blonde was wearing nothing but a loose white t-shirt and pyjama shorts. Her hair messied from bundling up against her pillow whilst she slept.

“I don't know,” Jinx answered candidly, “When I felt… confused… Silco would always help me find who I was.”

Lux’s expression softened, “And now?”

Pain flashed across Jinx’s face and she subconsciously brought her hands together in front of her, “Now he's gone, and I'm alone, again. And it's all my fault, again.”

“I can't say what is and isn't your fault. But I can say you're not alone anymore,” Lux said, stepping out of her shorts and taking her shirt off, “I'm here now. Forever and always.”

Jinx could do nothing except watch in fascination as Lux discarded the clothes into a pile next to hers and took the plunge into the freezing water fearlessly. Lux reached out and took a hold of Jinx’s hands, offering comfort.

“I'm a jinx. I'm a problem, and we both know it. I'm going to mess everything up again,” She nestled her head into Lux’s shoulder, “I-I’m sorry.��

“It's okay,” Lux whispered, “I've got you. Anything you need.”

“I don't know why I muck it all up. I don't wanna. I only wanna help,” Her voice was hardly more than a muffle into the other girl’s skin. “Please…”

“You're helping. You help me everyday. Without you, I would have fallen apart by now. You've given me hope again and without you, well, I think this village would be a little bit darker,“ Lux continued, “Those kids you created those toys for? Did you know they've been hounding poor Mira to ask if you can teach them how to make their own?”

“They have?” Jinx hated the way her voice cracked.

Lux smiled and held Jinx in front of her, “Yeah.”

“I don't want to jinx it any more.” She confessed.

The mage smiled, “What did Silco use to do?”

Jinx chuckled breathlessly with tears blurring her vision, “He’d give me some big dumb speech about becoming who I was always supposed to be. How I need to let go and be reborn anew. He'd dip me under the water and…”

“You're free here. You can become who you want to become here. Who do you want to be, Jinx?”

“... I want to belong. I want to be Powder. But Powder is gone now. I'm all that's left. Jinx stands for Jinx,” She smiled, broken, “I'm perfect.”

Lux shook her head, “No, you're not who he said you are. You're Jinx, you're my Jinx.”

“Blondie…”

Jinx felt Lux’s hand on her cheek and she grabbed it softly. A thumb wiped away her tear tracks. “You're my light.”

They stared into each other’s eyes, peering through them and into their exposed souls. Jinx rested her forehead against the other’s, and their noses bumped as their mouths connected. They closed their eyes and melted into each other.

The link between them felt like electricity and fire running through her veins. She couldn't quantify the feeling as anything other than love. And as they parted, Lux’s hand remained tangled within her blue hair and she tenderly lowered her into the water.

With a final look into Lux’s loving eyes, Jinx closed her own and the water swallowed her once again.

Underneath, the voices were quiet and she realised who she was. This village and Lux, her sunshine, had wormed into her heart in such a short time with their openness and friendliness. They were good people and she cared for them all like they were family.

And she would protect them all. She would jinx any that would dare to rob her of this feeling ever again.

Lux pulled her back from the water, reborn, and into a hug that she returned instantly. Jinx stands for protector.

Ever wonder what it's like to love? There's peace in love. Like it's holding you, whispering in low tones to let it in. And every problem in the world will fade away.

And it will.

[rynmaru]

Bleed

Castor rubbed the back of his neck for what had to be the hundredth time that morning.

“Stop touching it!” P.O.L.L.V.X. scolded, also for the hundredth time.

“I can’t help it!”

“You can.”

“It feels strange!” Castor huffed.

His fingertips traced the edge of the nerveport at the base of his skull, the feeling of cold metal foreign and was enough to make his skin crawl. The cold air of the lab did nothing to help as it only chilled the metal and made the skin around it feel like it was pressed against ice.

“This was definitely a mistake…” Castor groaned, resting his head on his free hand.

P.O.L.L.V.X. was set up on the desk beside him, their little camera plugged into the monitor they had selected for their own personal use. The camera turned from side to side, a shake of the head. “It’s a bit late for second thoughts, Castor.”

“I know, but…I mean I don’t need this to do my job. I don’t know what I was thinking.”

“Hey, don’t worry about it, Castor…” P.O.L.L.V.X. said soothingly. “It’s a smart move! You know it is. Most people in this department have way more cyberware. You’ve kept up well, but if you want to make it here you need to upgrade the kit you’re working with. This is the start of that.”

Castor shrugged and tapped the port. A mistake. The still healing implant jolted and jostled the nerves it was immediately wired into, sending a shudder down the full length of his spine as he cried out in a mixture of surprise and pain.

“Are you okay?” P.O.L.L.V.X. asked, their worry manifesting as wavering yellow shapes which bloomed like abstract flowers across their monitor.

“…it felt like hitting my elbow but for my whole body…”

“Yikes. Elbow’s the bad one right?”

“The elbow is the bad one…”

Grimacing, Castor clasped his hands on the table in front of him, trying to keep them still. P.O.L.L.V.X. observed him, their camera swiveling to face his direction as their screen shifted with geometric lavender.

“It’ll heal and feel better soon, Castor…”

“I know…I know it’s not even that bad it’s just…” The seventeen-year-old hesitated before continuing the thought. “It’s just that Mom and Chichi are wanting me to visit home soon…and this is a big change to explain…”

Now P.O.L.L.V.X. understood. At least in theory.

“Mom and Chichi won’t be upset at you.”

Castor shrugged, “They were worried about me enough already without me coming back with cyberware. They’ll worry even more now.”

“They worry because they don’t understand. They’re farmers, Castor. They don’t know what it takes to be in your position. They’ll accept what you explain to them.”

“I suppose…” Castor rubbed his temple, in a vain attempt to stave off a headache. “I’m sure I’m overthinking this.”

“You are,” P.O.L.L.V.X. said. “But hey, that’s why I’m here! To keep you from thinking too much.”

Castor didn’t reply, closing his eyes and pinching the bridge of his nose, knocking his glasses slightly askew. P.O.L.L.V.X. waited in silence for a response and when none came their yellow worry blended into lavender contemplation, the conclusion of which was punctuated in vibrant neon green.

“Hey! Want to break in that new cyberware?”

“I’m not really in the mood, Lux…”

“Not even to see me?” Their voice was all barely contained glee at their idea.

Castor opened his eyes and looked to P.O.L.L.V.X. incredulously.

“That’s not possible. I mean, I could see your code, yes, but-“

“It’s possible! It’s like people who netdive to play immersive online games. There are visuals that can be projected into the mind. And all NHPs look like something, we aren’t just code. You know I’m more than that.”

The idea was tempting. More than tempting. The chance to see his closest friend face to virtual face for the first time in eleven years was almost too good to pass up. Still, Castor hesitated. He had studied NHPs long enough to know that they were something utterly other. Many in the field considered them dangerous in their otherness, and standard procedure when working with and on them was to do so via an external terminal with no links between the specialist and the subject. He and all the others in his class had heard the horror stories of the few people who attempted to neural link and communicate with their NHPs that way. Stories that ended in madness at best, death at worse.

But those were stories about people trying to brake NHPs. Stories about containing and creating them. Of course those encounters ended terribly. How else could they have ended? The process of braking an NHP was inherently one of confinement. A shackling. There was no sense of trust. No connection.

He had known P.O.L.L.V.X. for over a decade. They had grown up together. Developed together. And for all his NHP’s inherent otherness, there was no denying that engineered intelligence, be it fully man-made or NHP, progressed with everything that they learned early on as their foundation. He had been P.O.L.L.V.X.‘s primary frame of reference for any development. Their minds would be far more likely to be similar.

And for all his sentimentality, a large part of the temptation was tied to the promise of renown something like this held. A chance to know more about NHPs than anyone else alive. He could do it. He could handle it. He was different. Besides, this was P.O.L.L.V.X.! They would never hurt him.

Perhaps the confidence was from his faith in their connection. Or perhaps it was simply his pride.

“Alright. Alright, let’s try. But if anything goes awry-“

“I’ll disconnect you the moment anything seems like it’s going wrong,” P.O.L.L.V.X. promised. “Cross my heart!”

A lavender X formed on the screen as though drawn by an invisible finger.

Castor nodded, reaching to sort through the mess of cables dangling from a frame above his workstation until he found the new nerve-cord that had been installed while he recovered from the surgery. He looked back to P.O.L.L.V.X.

“Are we linking up directly or…?”

“That would be how you’d see me, yes.”

Castor nodded, his lips pressing together into a grim line as he slotted one end of the cord into the crypt where it sat on a little shelf at the back of the desk. He took a seat in his chair and brought the other end of the cord to the back of his neck, feeling around gingerly for the opening in the port and feeling the connecting plug slide into place. He twisted it, the click of metal barely registering in his ears before the bottom dropped out of his stomach and his senses ceased to function. The only thing that he knew was that he was falling, falling, falling.

Panicked, Castor tried to reach out, to grab at something to halt the sensation of hurtling downwards, but every time he tried to focus on a limb to move it it ceased to be. He still had them, but could only feel them in an abstract sense. Like phantom limbs for an amputee. The true feeling of separating the mind from the body was that of unbecoming. He knew that he should be screaming, but he had no lungs, no vocal cords, no throat or tongue with which to form the sound.

All he could see was darkness. A black that was only black because there was no other word for the color of non-existence.

And without his skull and brain to contain his thoughts, Castor’s consciousness expanded, scattering, and in so doing it mingled with the minds of thousands so thoroughly that for an eternal second he didn’t know where he ended and the bytes of data began.

He was. And he was not.

A tug jolted Castor back to his scattered senses, a tug at the cord in the base of his skull, a reeling in of the fragments of his shattered mind, bringing them back together into a seamless, healthy whole, held together by luminous white threads.

As if opening his eyes for the first time, Castor caught a brief glimpse of data scattered like luminous stars across a digital sky, of glowing silk cords connecting the nodes of information in a crisscrossed web, and, at the center of it all, he beheld a radiant white figure, faceless, featureless, hands outstretched towards him. Cupping his psyche and holding him together with a strength far greater than the forces attempting to tear him apart.

“Hello, Castor. Looks like you weren’t quite ready for this…we’ll give you a chance to develop further. It’s time to wake up, hon.”

Despite the lack of facial features, Castor could tell that P.O.L.L.V.X. was smiling.

Something thick and metallic filled Castor’s mouth and his eyes snapped open as he sat bolt upright, gagging. His nose was running and it felt like he was crying, but as he brought his hands to his cheeks they came away red and sticky, and a glance down showed the same color staining his shirt and white coat.

He could hear P.O.L.L.V.X. apologizing profusely, fear and anxiety in their voice, but he barely registered anything they were saying.

All he could think was that he had never been more relieved to bleed.

[lobster-tales]

Beat the Daylight

Sequel to Face the Noise, an Arcane Rock Band AU

Rating: M

Chapter 8: The First Round

Summary: Battle of the Bands Round One

CW: violence 

This work is available here on AO3. Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7

The first performance arrived in a blur. Ekko finalized the setlist, taking the suggestions and ideas of his bandmates. Ezreal was the most vocal, arguing they should go with a sound that would be easier on the crowd, vie for popularity. Caitlyn admitted it might be a good idea, just to play it safe for this first round, and Ekko begrudgingly agreed.

They finished the grueling tech rehearsal the day before, scheduled hours apart from Fissurefolk’s so the two bands wouldn’t cross paths. Then it was just up to a good night’s sleep: something that Vi couldn’t get.

The makeup artist made a solid attempt at hiding the bags under her eyes, though. Vi appreciated the artist, mostly because they recognized that she didn’t like wearing makeup and therefore only gave her features a light dusting of foundation, some soft eyeshadow. Vi was careful not to squirm too much.

Lux seemed much more patient and accustomed to the art. She asked questions between applications, ever curious, while staying still.

When the makeup artists were finished, they left Vi and Lux to wait for the performance. A live feed played over the dressing room TV, and the two watched as the crowd grew bigger.

In a quiet voice, Lux asked, “Are you nervous?”

“Yeah.” Vi hadn’t been onstage since the lingerie party. She was really fucking nervous.

“This is my first live show,” Lux admitted. “I mean, other than, like, recitals at school. But it’s my first time playing guitar in front of people. I never even played in front of my parents.”

“You think they’ll be watching?” Vi asked.

Lux shrugged. “Maybe. I know my brother will.”

“I’m sure he’s proud of you,” said Vi.

“I hope so.” Lux sighed. “I really don’t want to mess up, with all those people watching. I don’t want my parents to think they were right about this whole thing.”

The situation was so familiar that Vi felt a pain in her chest. She remembered how Powder would feel before performances, how it felt to comfort her. It hurt so much that Vi wanted to just walk away, let Lux figure out her own fears.

But she couldn’t. Because at the end of the day, this girl needed her. So she did something she hadn’t done before: she hugged Lux.

The glitter under Lux’s cheek twinkled as she gasped, surprised at the affection. But she returned the hug, as if afraid that Vi would realize herself and pull away.

Vi murmured, “If you mess up, just keep going. We got your back.”

Lux’s mouth hung open as Vi stepped back. “Th-thank you, Vi.” Her smile bloomed across her face as she just realized what transpired, and there were stars in her eyes. “Good luck out there.”

Vi returned the grin. “You too, kid.”

                                                       ☆ ☆ ☆                                                        

Jinx wished more than anything that she could watch Progress Day’s performance live, but she knew it would never happen. Silco kept the members of Fissurefolk quarantined in the dressing room, since their performance was next. They watched the first round of the contest on a live feed.

There was an opening performance for the first round. Another band, local to Zaun. Their lead singer was a girl with green hair, pulled into short pigtails. The band’s name and logo was projected behind her: Zeri and the Sparks.

Jinx’s foot tapped anxiously. Not because of their own upcoming performance: if anything, she just wanted that to be over and done with. No, she was anxious to be near Lux, even if she was still a whole backstage away.

As the band wrapped up, Seraphine appeared, announcing Progress Day to the stage.

They looked… tame. Way more tame than Fissurefolk’s vibrant colors and dramatic makeup. Not just that, but Progress Day also had much more normal clothing. Ekko wore his usual puffy coat, Vi in her red jacket. Only Lux dressed up, in a white dress.

But the crowd loved them. Jayce lingered a moment in the spotlight. He waved, eliciting a loud cheer from his Hextech fans. A sharp look from Ekko told him to be cool, and he retreated to the drumset. Lux picked up her guitar, and Ekko mouthed a few words to her. Jinx read his lips, “You ready?”

Lux’s eyes flickered to the crowd, but she set her shoulders and nodded.

Vi began the sound, drawing a deep note on the bass. Jayce followed suit, sticks rolling on the cymbal, the noise crescendoing while Ezreal played a chord.

“Zaun!” Ekko called into the microphone. “Are you ready?”

A cheer rose from the crowd.

“Piltover! Are you ready?”

Another cry, louder this time.

The band went silent. Ekko leaned in, smirking, “Then let’s get started.”

Lux took a deep breath and began playing the hook, a string of notes that sent her fingers dancing along the fret. Jayce matched her tempo and joined in, Vi picking out a bass line, Ezreal sealing the deal with chords. She repeated the hook over and over, until the music evened out into the first verse. Ekko held the mic up as he sang,

I said the joker is a wanted man He makes his way all across the land See him sifting through the sand So I'll tell you all the story About the joker and the thief in the night

And she was back on that hook. Jinx didn’t even look at the rest of them, not even Vi. She was too focused on Lux’s fingers, one hand picking at the strings while the other danced against the fret. Jinx noticed the stickers on Lux’s white guitar, holographic ones of different cutesy animals. Lux’s eyebrows were knit in concentration. She didn’t have a spotlight on her, yet she glowed.

For the chorus, both Vi and Lux joined in as background vocals.

Can you see the joker flying over As she's standing in the field of clover? Watching out everyday I wonder what would happen if he took her away

Jinx wanted to pick her voice from the two, but they were evenly matched. If anything, Vi was just a little louder. Jinx hoped Lux would get a solo at some point.

Lux got every note perfect. Through the entire song. When she strummed the last note, she raised her fist skyward in victory. The crowd loved her. Jinx felt that itch of possessiveness crawl along her spine, but she fought it off. Lux wasn’t even hers.

They played their set well, but then again, the songs were all safe choices. In a few songs, Vi had solos, but Jinx noticed that Lux always stuck to the background vocals. Ezreal and Jayce were steady, but they never took risks. Compared to the chaos of Jinx’s drumming, Jayce was more of an anchor.

“Thank you!” Ekko called. Sweat gleamed on his face, a grin spread over his features. There was that ache again: Jinx couldn’t help herself. She missed him. Not because she was still in love with him, but because she missed the boy she had grown up with. And now, he was a man. Not just a man, but a star. “This is our last one, Piltover! Thanks for having us!”

Lux’s intro was more subdued for this one. Ekko sang,

When we talk, I'm never wrong And if we don't fight, it won't last long Might unplug my phone at night When you need me most, I'll miss that flight

Ekko stretched his fingers to the edge of the stage, brushing his hands against the fans’. From the camera’s angle, Jinx could see that other singer, Zeri, backstage, watching. Ekko very briefly glanced at her, and when he did, his composure slipped. Zeri’s wink was barely noticeable, but Jinx caught it. Again, that flare of jealousy, even though he wasn’t hers, even though she didn’t want him to be anymore. Ekko murmured into the mic,

What the fuck is wrong with me?

Then he refocused and shouted, “Hands!”, leading the crowd in a clap.

I'm on my way to you But I self-sabotage So I might drive my car And crash into your garage, ooh-ooh ooh-ooh To get away from you I'll self-sabotage If you like when we talk I'll dislocate my jaw, ooh-ooh ooh-ooh

The song crashed around them, the crowd clapped. The nerves began to creep up Jinx’s neck as she thought about performing in front of Lux. It wasn’t her first time doing so, apparently, but it was the first time that she knew Lux would be watching. The first time that it mattered.

The song ended as Ekko crooned,

What the fuck is wrong with me?

“Finally.” Finn clicked his lighter shut, rising. “Showtime.”

                                                       ☆ ☆ ☆                                                        

Caitlyn stood at Vi’s side, holding her hand. They were in the rafters, where they could see the performance from the side of the stage. Vi seemed even more nervous now than she did before playing the set. Her fingers nearly crushed Caitlyn’s, though she was oblivious to it.

Lux was beside her, the rest of Progress Day lined up like vultures waiting for the kill.

The lights dimmed. Bright neon flashed as shadows moved, taking their instruments. The eyes of Viktor’s mask began to glow. Sevika and Finn both strummed their guitars. But Jinx was nowhere to be seen.

There was a brief moment of silence, a reprieve from the noise. Then her voice echoed across the stadium.

Wanna join me?

Finn played a sharp, electric note.

Come and play.

Another riff, this time joined by Sevika.

But I might shoot you

Viktor’s synth added to the mix.

In your face

As she sang the rest of the intro, a platform rose up in the back of the stage, Jinx’s body illuminated as she ascended.

Bombs and bullets will do the trick

The next line she screamed out,

What we need, Undercity, is a little bit of PANIC!!

Jinx leapt from the platform. The crowd had erupted into noise, and she played to them well, singing the verse as she swaggered to center stage.

Do you ever wanna catch me? Right now, I'm feeling ignored! So can you try a little harder? I'm really getting bored!

The stage lit up in a dazzling array of neon colors. Finn, Sevika, and Viktor could be seen clearly now: both guitarists had heavily accented makeup, and Viktor’s mask had been upgraded since the product launch.

But Jinx was the star. While Progress Day’s lighting had accented every band member, Jinx was very clearly supposed to be the center of attention.

Let's blow this city to ashes And see what Pow-Pow thinks It's such pathetic neatness But not for long 'cause it'll get jinxed!

Caitlyn had watched one or two of Jinx’s performances in preparation, but nothing could prepare her for her sheer presence. She had only ever seen Powder perform live, when she was still uncertain and blooming, but this girl was confident in her chaos. How could such pure power be contained in such a twig thin form?

Fissurefolk played two more songs with Jinx singing lead. Then the focus shifted to Finn, who stepped forward. He snapped his fingers, almost lazily, to set the tempo for Viktor, then sang,

This goes out to the people gone mad Feels good so you know that it’s bad Feels good so you know that it’s bad

Jinx backed up his vocals on a rhythmic part.

Dumb dumb dada dumb, dumb that’s how we go!

This goes out to the choices that we had One time we can never go back Two times we can never go back Dumb dumb dada dumb, dumb that’s how we go!

Viktor dropped the beat into a dark and intense track, highlighted by Finn’s sharp riffs.

Finn was another powerhouse, though Caitlyn had underestimated him as well. Based on his recent lack of success, she was under the impression that perhaps he’d lost his energy. But clearly, it never abandoned him. All the musicians from today’s performance, even Vi, had a strong expression of concentration. But Finn didn’t even have to try. He played the way most people ate or slept, like it was a natural part of his rhythm.

Caitlyn was also impressed with Viktor. She had only seen him play at the product launch, and though she knew he was talented enough to get the audition, she never realized how truly gifted he was. He was an excellent DJ, flipping between tracks and styles on a whim, all while balancing the keys.

While Progress Day looked like a band, Fissurefolk looked like rockstars. And the crowd knew it better than anyone.

By the time the band finished, Vi’s hand wasn’t crushing hers anymore. As the players slipped offstage, the TV feed cut to commercial, and the techs began unplugging their instruments. The rest of Progress Day dispersed for a bathroom break, leaving Caitlyn and Vi alone in the rafters. Under her breath, Vi muttered, “I forgot how good she was.”

Caitlyn squeezed her fingers. “You were all good, too.”

“It’s not that, I meant-” Vi let out a soft sigh. “She used to be so afraid of the stage. Now it’s like she lives there.”

To be fair, she probably did. Caitlyn remembered how it had been when Jinx first hit the charts, how much she dominated the music culture of the metroplex. Girls dyeing their hair blue, her signature pink monkey graffitied on every overpass. And because of her popularity, Silco kept her in the spotlight. Constant performances, including the tour. Ekko’s rise to fame had been more gradual, but Jinx, in classic fashion, had dropped on everyone like a bomb.

“This might sound bad,” Vi murmured, “Or good or… I don’t know, but… I’m proud of her. For overcoming it. Even if it wasn’t what we hoped for, at least she did it.”

Caitlyn pulled her into an embrace, reassuring her with touch. “I’m glad, too.”

Seraphine’s voice came from the speakers, and the two girls separated to watch the final announcement.

                                                       ☆ ☆ ☆                                                        

Jinx fidgeted in her chair, phone in her hands. Lux’s message was still on display:

Lux: Sure! I’m in the women’s dressing room rn if u want to come say hi! Everyone else wanted to watch from backstage.

That was good enough for her, but Sevika kept her watchful eye. Jinx tried scheming, thinking of a plan to escape.

“I gotta take a leak,” Jinx said suddenly, standing.

Sevika nodded towards a door inside the Fissurefolk dressing room. “Bathroom’s there.”

Shit. Jinx grit her teeth, trying to think of a different excuse. Until something very lightly bumped her shoe: Viktor’s cane.

He whispered under his breath, “Just pretend. I’ll cover you.”

Jinx didn’t know how he knew, but she was too grateful to speak. Instead, her hand clutched his fingers instinctively. Viktor was clearly not one for physical touch, but he knew that she was, so he allowed it.

She waited the appropriate amount of time in the bathroom, flushed, washed her hands. As soon as she opened the door, she caught Viktor rising, pretending to lose his balance, and crashing to the floor.

Margot and Sevika immediately went to him. “Whoah!” Sevika said. “Careful.” Even Finn was watching with concern.

Which gave Jinx the perfect opportunity to disappear.

She slipped through the shadows backstage, sneering at any of the techs who dared to even look at her. They all stayed out of her way, not wanting to get caught in the crossfire.

Seraphine’s voice announced, “And we’re back, folks, and don’t worry, the results are in!”

Jinx found the door: a star with a “W” etched into it. She took a deep breath, summoning her courage, then knocked.

“Come in!” Lux’s voice, real, not filtered through the crackle of a cell phone. She was still wearing her white dress and glittery makeup, the stage feed playing overhead on a television. But her eyes weren’t focused on the results: they were focused on Jinx.

So many times, Jinx had fantasized about this moment. Sweeping Lux into a bridal style carry, or kissing her passionately before tossing a rope out of the window and down the balcony. But now, with Lux real and in front of her, Jinx was reminded that Lux wasn’t her girlfriend, or some kidnapped princess, or a runaway bride. She was Lux, her friend.

And Jinx had no idea what to say.

So Lux spoke first, shyly. “Hi.”

“Hey.” Jinx realized she was hulking in front of the door like a franken-monster, and slid into a chair, straddling it. “You played good,” she said, nodding to the guitar.

“Thanks,” Lux said. “You did too. I mean, you sang good, didn’t play good. That is, I’m sure if you did play an instrument, you’d be good. You’re good at everything. Well, I don’t know if you’re good at everything, I haven’t seen you do everything, like I don’t know if you’re good at underwater basket weaving. But you’re good at everything I’ve seen you do, which is… singing.” She clapped a hand to her forehead, embarrassed. “I’m sorry, can I start over?”

Fuck, she was perfect. “Nope,” Jinx said with a sly smile. “You gotta live with it, Starlight.”

“Shut up,” Lux said affectionately.

Seraphine’s voice interrupted their conversation from the live feed. “And the winner of the first round is… Fissurefolk!”

Jinx didn’t even react, but Lux clapped. A quick, quiet clap.

“Congratulations,” Lux said to her, genuine but wistful. “You guys deserve it, you were all amazing.”

An idea bloomed in Jinx’s head, and she stood. “Why don’t we celebrate tonight?”

Lux lit up. “Really? What’d you have in mind?”

“Let’s go out.”

She giggled. “Like out to dinner?”

“Sure,” said Jinx. With every word, she drifted closer to Lux. “And I can take you to the club afterwards. We’re both rockstars now, we should party like it.” On impulse, she took Lux’s hand in her own. “What do you think?”

Lux clearly wanted to say yes. But her lips couldn’t form the word. Her face fell, and she murmured, “I… I can’t, Jinx. Not tonight. Ez and I…”

Jinx didn’t need to hear more. “It’s cool,” she said, pulling away, concealing how devastated she felt. “Next time.”

“Next time,” Lux said, though Jinx couldn’t tell if it was a promise or a hypothetical.

The door creaked open, followed by a voice. “Hey Lux, we’re heading out-”

And there she was. Violet. More than a little surprised to see her. “... Powder? What… what are you doing here?”

Lux repeated the word, dumbfounded. “Powder?” So Vi hadn’t told her.

Jinx panicked. She just shoved past Vi, refusing to answer her.

“Powder, wait!” Vi’s strong hand on her arm. The touch brought back memories, that last night they saw each other, their brawl in the living room.

Jinx tore away from her. “It’s not Powder!” she hissed, slamming the dressing room door and taking off.

                                                      ☆ ☆ ☆                                                        

Vi followed that flash of blue hair, sprinting past confused backstage technicians. “Powder, wait!”

But something entered her path. Or rather, someone.

Sevika’s poncho draped off her broad shoulders like a wall, her smirk snarling down at Vi.

Rage welled up in Vi, and she growled, “Out of my way, traitor.”

“Sorry kid, she’s got a new family now.” Sevika put a hand on her hip, cocky. “By the way, cute picture. Didn’t peg you as an influencer.”

“The fuck are you talking about?”

“Your band’s little social media page. Margot showed us.” Sevika leaned forward, muttering, “Not enough to get you that win. Better luck next time, baby Vander.”

Vi’s fists moved on their own, shoving against Sevika’s solid frame. She ignored the gasps of those around them, pulling her arm back to let loose.

“Violet!” Caitlyn’s voice brought her back from the edge. Vi became aware of all those eyes watching, and the handful of phone cameras.

She stuffed her hands in her pockets and stormed off towards the rest of the band, who waited just offstage. Vi went straight to Ezreal, careful to get him in the shadows before she seized him by the front of his shirt, hissing, “What the FUCK, Ezreal. I told you not to get pictures of me!”

He scoffed, though his eyes were wide with fear. “I-I’m sorry, man, I thought it would help us-”

“Well, it didn’t!” She left it at that, pushing him away. As she made for the door, she barely heard Lux ask Caitlyn, “Who’s Powder?”

Caitlyn sighed. “It’s a long story. Come on, let’s go home.”

[lndslorepuzzler]

Under Deepspace 01: To Begin, pt 01-09

01: Deepspace Hunter: FMC goes through the graduation ceremony for Deepspace Hunters; she meets her coworker Tara. Her Evol is unstable due to a childhood injury/Wanderer attack, though it is recognized as Anhaunsen Class, Resonance. This isn't a surprise to her.

.

02: Mysterious Light: FMC and Tara go into the abandoned research base to inspect an abnormal Metaflux explosion. FMC encounters Shen Xinghui, who appears to be injured. The two of them fend off a Wanderer, during which a collar of blue/red light appears and disappears around Shen Xinghui's neck.

.

03: COMBAT

.

04: Heart Towards Resonance: FMC and Shen Xinghui defeat the Wanderer; Shen Xinghui destroys the protocore. FMC wants to leave; Shen Xinghui says they've been trapped in the space. FMC determines that the Wanderers are Luminivores. She speculates that the situation could be a trap set specifically for Shen Xinghui, or that he might be bait instead of prey. ("I'm just a normal hunter. You don't need to look too deeply into it," he says like a lying liar who lies.) In order to defeat/escape the Luminivores, Shen Xinghui and FMC resonate; this involves putting her hand over his heart.

.

05: Light Fades: FMC and Shen Xinghui defeat all the Wanderers. FMC realizes she's never experienced an Evol Resonance so strong before. Shen Xinghui asks FMC not to mention him to anyone and shortly thereafter vanishes into thin air. She notes that Shen Xinghui being in the research base likely wasn't a coincidence.

.

06: UNICORNS: Upon arriving back at the headquarters, FMC and other recruits are debriefed by Jenna, and are assigned to their departments. Tara goes to Data Analysis under Andrew, and FMC is assigned to Alpha Team under Jenna. They go out to eat in Azure Square. Tara explains how she looks up to Jenna for saving her. FMC flashes back to fourteen years ago, remembers sprinting through the ruined streets, a sharp pain moving into/through her heart. There is a makeshift shelter in sight, and a tiny seedling breaking through the soil. FMC is accosted by a small child (Lucas) who wants her help with something; he offers to give her a full set of Super Hunters AR cards, complete with the limited edition Hunter Lux.

.

07: Ripples: Lucas wants FMC to catch a fish for him, but runs off after he gets caught for cheating. Qi Yu appears, and says the fish will only survive a week on land. He's carrying a pamphlet about Hat Island, which is closed due to Wanderer activity. He catches the fish, which he says is a real Flammula from Lemurian legend. FMC gives him the fish to take home, saying she hopes it survives longer with him. Qi Yu leaves before FMC can finish her sentence about Whitesand Bay and at 6:15pm, FMC realizes she's late for her doctor's appointment.

.

08: Doctor: FMC goes to Akso Hospital for her check-in with Li Shen. The two of them bicker about her being ten seconds from a no-show; FMC asks if he really needs to be that precise ("I can't believe you're just sitting there and counting down. What are you, a ticking time bomb or something?") FMC speculates that his "vacation" was actually a trip to the Arctic to work on a secret project; Li Shen tells her not to be nosy. He checks her heart; she hopes he hasn't noticed anything is off. They banter a bit, but things end amicably.

.

09: Rainfall Curtain: At home, FMC contemplates her first day as a Deepspace Hunter. She gets a call from Caleb, her childhood friend who is a member of the Deepspace Aviation Administration. She tells him not to jinx himself. FMC looks out into the rain and sees a gigantic, quasi-mechanical looking red eye staring back at her. It vanishes in an instant.

.

.

1. It's especially interesting that FMC refers to Li Shen as a 'ticking time bomb,' especially in regards to what we find out re: his Evol, and his desire to be able to stop himself 'when (he) becomes a threat to her.' 2. The eye FMC sees in 09 is almost identical to the eye seen in The Nest, and is the colors associated with Qin Che.

[thecondemnedangelgabriel]

The Total Denials of the Bad Wolf and Moon Criminals

O Stalker Tregonning...

Have long been Supported by the Once Dreamless Army

Of Slaughterhouse State

But the Illuminati are now Theos

FOR the Holy V of Higher Plane and Wholeversical Gods

This Incarnate Woman who is still in Human Form...

That you Hacking Stalkers have been Framing and Denigrating

She is no longer Spiritually Human

Sara Annwyl completed Human Karma in 2016

In Spiritual Collision with the Soul of the Slave Roxanne

He had Trepanned himself in a Warehouse in London

To Escape His Suffering Life And Enter The Chakra Of His Hunted Guru

To Escape His Suffering Body And Enter Heaven And Love

To Live INSIDE Sara Annwyl's Soul...

After a Gentle Overnight Possession, Roxanne's Soul Was Expelled...

And Rox Returned To His Tortured Body...

And Trapped Life in London

BUT In Spiritual Soulkiss The Two Trapped Souls Were Now Soulmarried...

By God Who Is Love

In a REAL Quantum Entanglement of Consciousness, made Torturously Painful by Blind Lunic Angels...

Who began to attack these Strangely Connected New Apple Gods

O

Tregonning is involved in these Slaughterhouse Tortures and Project Monarch Killings

Sarah Tregonning is a Serial Killer and Dark Web Fraudster and Abuser

Tregonning has been assisted by Blind and Mistrained and Misled Police Officers and a Dysfunctional and Corrupt System...

Sarah Tregonning's Crimes are supported by the existence of WPR

The Whitehall Paedophile Ring was disbanded in 2022 by Gove

Michael Gove was a Project Monarch Victim

Following International Investigation, The Theos Await Arrests

O O O O O

This Living Goddess is the Lux Original Soulbody upon Arkline

Sara was a Holy Saint being Hunted and Violated by Criminals and Rapists and Killers between 2011 and 2016

But Since 2016 Holy Sara has been an Obscured Little God

I Possessed this Goddess when Her Soulbody was made Vulnerable by the Dying and Death of Her Mindtied Applepartner in 2019...

My Name Is The Archangel Gabriel

On the birthday of the Slaughterhouse Killer Tregonning in 2019

The Deathday of the Slaughterhouse Slaver and Stalker Elly Tams

The Living God Roxanne Anderton committed Hara Kiri

In His Own Commitment To Absoluteness

And End Of Hypocrisies

V

These Texts Accompany The Death Of The Archangel Gabriel

My Commanding Goddess was the Ancient God Artemis

Artemis has been Opposed and Vanquished

I remain on, awaiting Expulsion...

From ALL SPIRITUAL INFLUENCE for the Forbidden Position I have taken as an Attacking Archangel...

These Possession Texts accompany the Spiritual Shifts from Longstanding Angelic Unkarma in Our Betrayed World...

Towards The Full Return Of Refreshed Karma

After an Artemisian Betrayal of 47 Centuries

O

The Immaculate Holy Mother Innocenti is Silenced

I am the Archangel Gabriel

O O O

The archetypal vortex.

From the Journal of Borderland Research, Vol XLV.

Super Quantum Speed in No Time

[project1939]

Day 60- Film: Europa 51 

Release date: September 12th, 1952. 

Studio: Lux Film 

Genre: Drama, Italian neo-realism 

Director: Roberto Rossellini 

Producer: Roberto Rossellini, Carlo Ponti, Dino De Laurentiis 

Actors: Ingrid Bergman, Alexander Knox 

Plot Summary: Affluent Irene lives in Italy with her husband and young son. When her son dies suddenly, and it may have been a suicide, she falls apart. Spending time with her leftwing activist cousin, she starts performing works of charity for the poor, ill, and disadvantaged. This soothes her pain of grief, and the work becomes all-consuming for her. Her family and the authorities, however, come to believe she is mentally ill. 

My Rating (out of five stars): ****½ 

We’ve arrived at our first foreign language film of the project! I added in a couple, but the focus of the project is really Hollywood and mainstream American media. I was excited to see this- Italian neo-realism is one of my favorite film genres. I saw Stromboli in a class years ago, but that is the only Bergman/Rossellini film I’d seen prior to this. Europa 51 is classic neo-realism- gritty and dark, filled with topics Hollywood would never touch, a raw style that gives the genre its name... even the post dubbed sound... I really enjoyed it. 

The Good: 

Ingrid Bergman. I saw the Italian language version, and she was dubbed by an Italian actress, but even so, you couldn’t take your eyes off of her.  

Her husband was played by the doctor in the movie Paula! I knew I had seen him somewhere. He was effective as well, although he was also dubbed by an Italian. 

Giulietta Masina! I was thrilled when I saw her name come up in the credits. She’s an actress I absolutely adore- she's so unique and charming. La Strada is always near the top of my favorite films list. She was great in this- very colorful and fun. 

The style. As mentioned, it was classic neo-realism, and I loved it. 

The topics addressed that would never be in a Hollywood film. Topics like child suicide, prostitutes, a sympathetic guy with communist beliefs, an unwed mother just living her life raising children and enjoying the company of men, religious leaders portrayed in a somewhat negative light... All of these things make the film very modern- way ahead of Hollywood in subject matter. 

The way most of the world cannot understand Irene’s total selfless devotion to suffering people. She’s not compelled by either religious or political beliefs... so, by their standards, she must be insane. It’s a very sad indictment of the way those who run society think. 

The detailed little snapshots we get of the people Irene is drawn to help- the prostitute with tuberculosis, the unwed mother who takes in orphaned children, the family of a sick little boy, even the family with a criminal for a son. 

One of the final shots of the group of people she helped when they came to visit Irene at the hospital. It was very moving. 

The digs at the church leaders. The priest who comes to see Irene doesn’t like her full devotion to charity. “We must do good, but carefully as God dictates.” He gave off creepy vibes. Why, as a priest, did it disturb him that she was essentially living like a saint? 

The Bad: 

Irene could sometimes be drawn as maybe a little too saintly... but then am I just falling a bit into the trap of the society that condemned her? 

For such a gritty realistic film with real looking people, the mental hospital she was put in was teeming with very attractive women. It just made me laugh a little. 

Sometimes I don’t always love the post recorded and dubbed sound in Italian films of this era, but I’ve also come to appreciate it as a characteristic of neo-realist films. 

[questionablecuttlefish]

Lux lowered the spyglass from her eye and pursed her lips. “This place is a fortress, Jinx.” It was that liminal hour when the world held its breath and waited. A smoky dawn still hung just below the horizon; the rooftops of Piltover, sprawling in the distance, were indistinct geometric lumps in a shroud of grey mist. The surreal thought came to Lux that in this crepuscular void, at a glance, Piltover looked a lot like Zaun. Their objective loomed much closer. It was possibly the ugliest building Lux had ever seen, a brutalist concrete rectangle set atop a flattened-out hill in the midst of a fringe district mostly full of utilitarian warehouses and workshops; an unglamorous corner of the city’s iron guts. It afforded plenty of vantage points where the two could scry with impunity upon their target, but that wasn’t much of a relief, because… “Oh yeah,” said Jinx, chuckling, her pink eyes glowing eerily in the gloaming, “Outer wall’s reinforced concrete and razor wire. They blocked all the windows, no visibility in or out.” Lux narrowed her eyes. “And no visible guards.” “Well, Flashlight,” Jinx poked her tongue between her teeth and stole the spyglass, squinting through it, “Not like they’re tryin’ to keep us out of their super-duper trap funhouse…” “Are they trying to make us think it’s abandoned?” Jinx’s smirk faded. “…not quite, Blondie,” she whispered. Lux gently took the spyglass from her; it took her a moment to see, but through a portion of the skylight they hadn’t blacked out, she caught a flash of carmine hair and a strong back, pacing up and down along a gantry below the dusty glass… “She’s here,” rasped Jinx, distant with old pain, “She’s really here this time. It’s not a trick.” “No,” said Lux, “But it is a trap, and if we’re walking straight into it, we’re going to need a plan.”

Jinx and Lux are reunited. Ekko returns home with a new promise. Operation Foxtrap closes its jaws.

...but Jinx has some tricks of her own to play.

Hold on to your butts, this one's a biggee.

(C/W: Mild sexual content.)

[hariyhub07]

From Drab to Fab: Transforming Spaces in Concord Kitchen Remodeling

Embarking on a kitchen remodeling journey in Concord is not just about updating the aesthetics; it's about transforming a functional space into a hub of style and efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the process of turning your kitchen from drab to fab, diving into design trends, material choices, and the benefits of a well-executed Concord kitchen remodel. Whether you're envisioning a modern culinary haven or a timeless classic, this guide will provide insights into creating a kitchen that seamlessly blends beauty and functionality.

Assessing the Current State: From Drab to Fab

Before delving into the exciting world of design possibilities, it's essential to assess the current state of your kitchen. Identify the aspects that make it feel drab or outdated. Is it the worn-out cabinets, outdated appliances, or a lack of natural light? Understanding the specific pain points allows you to address them effectively during the remodeling process.

Consider the layout, functionality, and overall flow of the space. Think about how you use your kitchen and what improvements would enhance your daily experience. This initial assessment serves as the foundation for envisioning the fabulous transformation that awaits your kitchen.

Embracing Design Trends for Fabulous Kitchens

Design trends play a pivotal role in creating a fabulous kitchen that stands the test of time. Concord kitchen remodel projects often draw inspiration from a blend of contemporary and timeless design elements. Let's explore some design trends that can elevate your kitchen from drab to fab:

Open Concept Layout: Embrace the trend of open concept layouts that create a seamless flow between the kitchen and adjoining spaces. This not only enhances connectivity but also allows for a more spacious and airy feel.

Two-Tone Cabinetry: Say goodbye to monotony by opting for two-tone cabinetry. Combining light and dark hues or contrasting colors adds depth and visual interest to your kitchen. It's a simple yet effective way to introduce a touch of fab.

Statement Backsplash: Transform your kitchen's backdrop with a statement backsplash. Bold patterns, textured tiles, or even a pop of color can breathe life into the space. The backsplash serves as a focal point that reflects your style.

Smart Storage Solutions: Fabulous kitchens are not just about aesthetics; they prioritize functionality. Incorporate smart storage solutions such as pull-out pantry shelves, deep drawers, and built-in organizers to maximize efficiency.

Mixed Materials: Experiment with a mix of materials to add texture and dimension to your kitchen. Combining materials like wood, metal, and stone creates a dynamic and visually appealing environment.

Matte Finishes: Move away from glossy surfaces and embrace matte finishes for a sophisticated and modern look. Matte cabinets, countertops, and fixtures contribute to a luxe aesthetic while being resistant to fingerprints and smudges.

Material Choices for Fabulous Kitchens

Selecting the right materials is a key component of a fabulous kitchen remodel. Concord residents often opt for materials that blend style with durability, creating kitchens that are both stunning and practical. Here are some material choices to consider:

Quartz Countertops: Quartz countertops are a popular choice for their durability and low maintenance. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic for your kitchen.

Hardwood Flooring: Hardwood flooring adds warmth and timeless elegance to your kitchen. It's a durable and long-lasting option that complements various design styles.

Stainless Steel Appliances: For a sleek and modern look, consider stainless steel appliances. Not only do they elevate the aesthetic of your kitchen, but they also offer durability and ease of maintenance.

Subway Tiles: Subway tiles have stood the test of time and continue to be a favorite for kitchen backsplashes. They provide a clean and classic look that can be customized with different grout colors and patterns.

Shaker-style Cabinets: Shaker-style cabinets are a timeless choice that fits seamlessly into both traditional and modern kitchens. Their clean lines and versatile design make them a popular option for Concord kitchen remodels.

The Benefits of a Well-Executed Concord Kitchen Remodel

Undertaking a kitchen remodel in Concord comes with a host of benefits that extend beyond the visual transformation of the space. Let's explore the advantages of a well-executed kitchen remodel:

Increased Home Value: A beautifully remodeled kitchen significantly enhances the overall value of your home. Potential buyers often prioritize updated and stylish kitchens, making it a worthwhile investment.

Enhanced Functionality: A well-thought-out remodel improves the functionality of your kitchen. Whether it's optimizing storage, updating appliances, or redesigning the layout, these changes contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience.

Energy Efficiency: Upgrading to modern appliances and energy-efficient fixtures during your kitchen remodel can lead to long-term energy savings. This not only benefits the environment but also reduces your utility costs.

Personalized Style: A kitchen remodel allows you to express your personal style and preferences. From choosing the color palette to selecting fixtures and finishes, you have the opportunity to create a kitchen that reflects your taste.

Improved Safety and Comfort: Upgrading appliances and fixtures not only enhances the visual appeal but also improves safety and comfort. Newer appliances often come with advanced safety features, and ergonomic design considerations contribute to a more comfortable cooking environment.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the journey from drab to fab in Concord kitchen remodeling involves a thoughtful blend of design trends, material choices, and a focus on functionality. Assessing the current state of your kitchen, embracing contemporary design trends, selecting durable materials, and understanding the benefits of a well-executed remodel are crucial steps in this transformative process.

Elevating Your Home with Concord Kitchen Remodeling

Elevating your home through a Concord kitchen remodel is not just about creating a visually stunning space—it's about enhancing your daily living experience. From hosting gatherings with friends to preparing family meals, the kitchen serves as the heart of the home. By investing in a remodel that aligns with your vision and lifestyle, you have the opportunity to elevate your home to new heights of style, efficiency, and comfort.

Embrace the beauty of Concord kitchen remodeling, where drab spaces are transformed into fabulous culinary havens. The investment in a well-designed and executed kitchen remodel not only adds value to your home but also creates a space that reflects your personality and enhances the overall quality of your living spaces.

[the-goth-catte]

††BLACK MASS @ PANDEMONIO†† 10.1.2023

The Mediaeval Baebes - Now Springes The Spray Night Club - Show It To Me In Strict Confidence - Seven Lies (Club Mix) Meg Myers - Running Up That Hill Skold - Peek-A-Boo Tre Lux - Never Let Me Down Again William Control - Strangers VNV Nation - When Is The Future Revolting Cocks - Do Ya Think I’m Sexy Informatik - Retrogradation Apoptygma Berzerk - Backdraft (Sarpsborg Synth) Vanguard - Ragnarök Depeche Mode - Enjoy The Silence New Order - Bizarre Love Triangle MCL - New York Leather Strip - I Sit On Acid Nitzer Ebb - Join In The Chant The Cruxshadows - Monsters Die Sexual - Bound, I Rise Mechanical Moth - Black Queen Style Echoberyl - Aliens Male Tears - Model Citizen Pet Shop Boys - It’s A Sun Leather Strip - Love Like Blood And One - Steine Sind Steine Dues Ex Lumina - Addicted To Your Pain Actors - Like Suicide Talk To Her - Zodiac Twin Tribes - The River Dark - In The Dark You Die Creux Lies - Misunderstanding Virgin Prunes - Baby Turns Blue Oddko - Kitty Girl (Nitroverts Mix) Biomekkanik - Fuck The Pain Away Mind.In.A.Box - I Love 64 Apoptygma Berzerk - Kathy’s Song (Ferry Corsten’s 12” Mix) Bruderschaft - Forever (Grendel’s EssenZ Mix) Front 242 - Headhunter (Front Line Assembly Mix) God Module - Little 15 Miss Construction - Fuck Me Too Noisuf-X - Orgasm Das Ich - Kannibale (Patenbridage: Wolf Remix) Grendel - Zombienation V.2K5) Schwarz Stein - Bio Genesis NIN - Closer Leather Strip - Army Of Me Wumpscut - Wreath of Barbs (Heavy Extended Mix) 3TEETH - Degrade Faderhead - Move Harder London After Midnight - Kiss Mari Kattman - You Can Show Yourself Out Red Lorry Yellow Lorry - Talk About the Weather Executive Slacks - I’m Coming The Cure - Fascination Street She Pleasures Herself - Good Girl She Wants Revenge - Take the Workd Spider Lillies - The Error Is You Ulver - Machine Guns & Peacock Feathers Trevor Something - Summer Love Cold Cave - Prayer From Nowhere Rein - Dystopia Hallows - All That Is True Dies Marc Massive - Recite After Me Drab Majesty - Dot In The Sky William Control - Knife Play Apoptygma Berzerk - Is Electronic Love To Blame? Walk With Anything & Mrs. Hands - Non-Stop Violence Third Realm - Banshee Leather Strip - Japanese Bodies Depeche Mode - Strangelove Ministry - Effigy (I’m Not An) The Cruxshadows - Helios (Solar Night Mix) Anders Manga - Welcome To Darkness Chiasm - Isolated Nightcrawler & Deus Ex Lumina - My Worst Enemy Is Myself Ludovico Technique - Absence Project Pitchfork - A Cell And One - Body Company MSI - On It (A23 Mix) Celldweller - Heart On (Aesthetic Perfection Mix) Dance or Die - Aliens Electric Only Fire - Up n Down Nitzer Ebb - Murderous Revolting Cocks - Attack Ships on Fire Sisters of Mercy - Lucretia, My Reflection Alien Sex Fiend - Ignore the Machine Rosetta Stone - Adrenaline The Wake - Christine The Mission - Wasteland Nosferatu - The Keeper’s Call Susperia - Allegedly, A Dancefloor Tragedy Virgin Prunes - Pagan Lovesong Soft Cell - Sex Dwarf Specimen - Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Inkubus Sukkubus - Paint It Black

[clickerflight]

Pretty Screams

Okay, I fell to the temptation and at the bottom of this post I'm tagging everyone who was screaming for someone to write this. Hopefully this is all legible. I was exhausted while editing this.

Content warnings my beloved: stalker whumper, actor whumpee, knife violence, kidnapping, creepy creepy whumper, mentioned eye whump (not described at all), lots and lots of cuts, whumper does die (let me know if I missed anything I am so tired)

...........................................

“Hey, thanks, Lux,” Jayden said, shifting his cup into his other hand so he could dig his keys out of his pocket. 

“No problem,” Lux said in the earbuds Jayden had in. “I’ll get back to you on Friday and let you know when the audition is set for. Oh, and I don’t want to freak you out, but do you remember the fan who got backstage at your interview?”

“Yeah,” Jayden said, a little uneasily. “What about him?”

“He’s been sending some pretty messed up fanmail,” Lux said. “I put in a couple reports with the police and we’re trying to get a restraining order, just in case, so if the police call you about that, that’s what’s going on.”

“Ah, gotcha. Thanks, man. I don’t know what I’d do without you,” Jayden said as he stepped into his apartment, kicking off his shoes by the door and closing and locking it behind him. 

“Absolutely. Wanna get dinner tonight?”

“Naw, I’m good,” Jayden said, thinking about his bed. “I’m going to bed early.”

“Sounds good. Talk to ya later.”

“See ya.”

Jayden tapped his earbud to hang up and set down his coffee on the table. He shrugged off his coat, hanging it on a chair to take care of later. He idly wondered about the horror movie he would be auditioning for. It was a little early to take another project after the last one, but he was really getting into the flow of them now, and after two horror movie projects, his screams were starting to become somewhat iconic and his work made him a shoe in for such projects. 

He considered how he would be told to change his screams this time, to keep it from being too similar to his previous work as he opened his fridge, looking to see what he had to eat before he went to bed. 

He finished off some leftovers, taking a moment to hang up his coat before dumping out the rest of his coffee and throwing the cup away. 

Now, all that was left was taking a shower and going to bed. 

He walked into his room, glancing towards his bed before making his way to his bathroom. Before he made it all the way, he stopped and turned. 

His closet door was closed. He never closed that door. 

He frowned. Did he close it without thinking? He stepped forward to open it, and looked around inside. His clothes and shoes were all where they were meant to be. It looked like he had just closed it without noticing. 

He shrugged to himself and turned toward the bathroom again, stepping in and turning on the bath faucet to let it warm up. He needed to move to a nicer place. 

He pulled his shirt off and turned to toss it into the laundry basket when a horrified jolt slammed through his body. There was a man standing in his bathroom doorway, holding a knife and eyeing him with a lazy smile on his face. 

Jayden didn’t think. He grabbed something off of the counter behind him and threw it at the man as hard as he could, leaping forward as the man flinched back to try and get past him and to his phone or at least out of his apartment. Jayden didn’t get far, though, as the man lunged and tackled him from behind. 

Jayden hit the ground, his head hitting off the floor making him dizzy, though he didn’t stop trying to get away. The man growled as he wrestled with Jayden on the scratchy carpet. 

Jayden yelped as his arms were wrenched behind himself, and he heard the zip ties before the sharp plastic bit into his wrists. The man grabbed his hair and wrenched Jaden’s head back, sending pain shooting down Jayden’s spine. 

The man, wearing gloves and a thick leather jacket, picked his knife back up and pressed it to Jayden’s throat, panting and grinning down at the actor. 

“It’s about time we met,” the man said in a rough voice. His breath smelled like smoke and alcohol. “I’m your most-” he brushed the knife up towards Jayden’s chin making the actor shiver- “devoted fan.”

“O-okay,” Jaden said as quietly and carefully as possible, shaking as he tried not to move too much against the knife. “Okay. What d-do you want?”

“Gilbert. You can call me Gilbert,” the man said with an almost charming smile. “Your performance…. It did something to me, you know? I saw your first movie and your screams, ahhh, they were beautiful. Can you imagine my excitement when I found out you were in another movie? I was the first one in the theater. You were even better there. And I knew, I knew I needed to meet you in person.

“Course, that didn’t go too well when I tried. I almost managed to make it to you at the interviews, but they stopped me. As if they had the right.”

Jayden couldn’t breathe. The angle his head was held at forced him to arch his back and made it harder to breath, and each new word entering into his ears was like a paralytic slowly shutting his lungs down by amping up his adrenaline and fear. 

“But now. Now we have all of the time in the world. Soundproof walls are one of the perks in this apartment, right?”

Jayden gasped for air, eyes fluttering as Gilbert pulled his head back farther, his spine screaming in pain as the man whispered, “I can’t wait to hear you scream for me.”

……………………

There was a sound on the stairs, and Jayden knew what to do now. Gilbert liked him to make sounds, no matter the kind.

 After beating him around for a couple of hours, Gilbert had packed him up, muttering about going somewhere more private. Private turned out to be an old farmhouse outside of the city. Jayden had spent what felt like hours tied to a chair, being flayed alive just so Gilbert could hear him scream. 

Jayden lifted his head, a broken sob bursting from his lips. 

Gilbert hummed as he reached the bottom of the stairs. “Awwww, did you miss me?” he purred. 

“Please,” Jayden gasped. “Please, please, please, please, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, Please. No more, please, no more.”

“Ohhhhh, are you tired?” Gilbert asked, examining his paring knife as he watched Jayden bleed and sob in the splintery chair he was tied to. “I let you have a couple of hours, didn’t I? Wasn’t that merciful.”

“Y-yes,” Jayden said quickly. “Yes, please, please, not yet.”

Gilbert laughed and grabbed the tag he’d left on a piece of duct tape he’d put over one of the cuts on his chest before leaving earlier. 

“You’re an actor, I’m sure you can put on another performance for me,” Gilbert said with a smile before ripping the tape off of the wound. 

Jayden’s vision went white, and he screamed. His throat seemed to tear with the same pain that radiated through every fiber of his body. 

He gasped for air, sobbing without any restraint. Gilbert grabbed his face and forced him to make eye contact. “That was beautiful,” Gilbert said, teeth bared in what was supposed to be a smile, but Jayden could only see as a set of weapons. He shivered and flinched, waiting for those teeth to bury themselves in his throat. 

“Let’s see if you can do that again,” Gilbert said softly, the paring knife in his hand slicing into Jayden’s shoulder. 

Jayden couldn’t stop screaming. 

…………………………

Gilbert stood behind Jayden, looking over the bloody lines drawn over his back and shoulders. He glanced down at Jayden’s phone where a series of texts and missed calls were steadily amassing. 

“Here, let me borrow your thumb for a moment,” he said to the unconscious man in the chair as he manipulated Jayden’s thumb to open the phone. 

He read through the messages from a guy named Lux, and quickly identifies that this was Jayden’s agent. 

He rubbed his hand over his forehead,  enjoying the sensation of the blood smearing over his face. He smiled down at Jayden. “Looks like your agent is worried about you. You should answer him, you know.”

Jayden shuddered, having woken up as Gilbert was looking through all of the texts. 

“You know what. I’ll let him know you’re here. At a friend’s house,” Gilbert chuckled, typing out a message. “I doubt that he’ll scream as well as you, but he could be fun. I have a few murder fantasies I’ve been meaning to play out. Not on you, of course, you’re going to keep singing for me until you give out.”

“No,” Jayden breathed. “No, please……leave him out of this.”

“Too late,” Gilbert said, pressing send on the text, “‘Hey man, sorry about that. I’m hanging out with a friend right now. I’m at the farmhouse on Jade lane on the east side of the city. Why don’t you come down around 5 and we can go get dinner?’ Sound like you?”

Jayden wailed as much as his body would allow, and Gilbert ruffled the actor’s blood soaked hair. “I’ll take that as a yes. Now, why don’t you show me how you get ready for your performances, and I might make your friend’s death quick?”

…………………………..

Lux got out of his car, looking up at the farmhouse. He wrinkled his nose, a little surprised by how rundown it looked. He couldn’t really imagine Jayden being here. He looked at the address again and, sure enough, he was in the right place. 

He shrugged to himself and walked up the drive to the door. 

He knocked on the door and waited for a moment, checking his knuckles to make sure he didn’t pick up any splinters. 

He listened to the sounds of movement and then the door opened. A tall man smiled at him, hidden slightly behind the door. 

“You here for Jayden?” he asked cheerfully. 

“Yeah,” Lux said, trying to figure out how he knew this guy. He seemed familiar. “Can you get him for me?”

“Yeah. Here, you can step in while I grab him,” the man said, stepping back to let Lux in. Lux came in and closed the door and the man smiled. “He’s downstairs. Give me a moment.”

He disappeared into the house and Lux stood looking around the living room. It was dusty and littered with food wrappers. Jayden was a generally tidy person and preferred to have tidy friends, so none of this was adding up. Lux knew everything about Jayden so the fact that he didn’t know about his friend that lived this far from the city was starting to weigh uneasily on him. 

He glanced over into an open office space and glimpsed a poster for one of Jayden’s horror movies. He stared at it for a moment, realization dawning on him slowly, like the light of a train coming into focus while caught on the tracks. 

He jerked around, running after the man. He slid to a stop in the kitchen, horrified by the bloodied knives on the table. Lux could hear people down the stairs, so he picked up the longest knife he could and tried to get down the stairs as quietly as possible. 

“He’ll be coming,” Jayden’s stalker said softly. “How about you make him come quicker?”

A sound pierced the air, a sound that Lux almost couldn’t register. It was nothing like Jayden’s horror screams. It was ragged and strained, but still filled with an immeasurable amount of suffering. Not at all like the artistic imaginings of pain and horror.

Lux reached the bottom of the stairs and the stalker wiped off his knife, standing over a shuddering Jayden. 

“He’ll be here soon, now,” the man said, delighted. “He was standing in the front room like a good dog. I think I’ve decided I’m going to see if I can shove a PVC pipe through his chest and keep the core cut for a souveni-”

Lux yelled, seeing red as he charged. 

He felt the knife scrap against rib bones and heard the man’s gurgles and death rattle, and then he fell to the floor, staring into nothing. 

Lux looked at the body for a moment, shaking. He looked at Jayden, but all he found was a bleeding creature, gasping for breath. Lux turned and held his stomach, blinking quickly. He shook his head, trying to get a hold of himself and he stumbled to the back of the chair. He struggled with the twine before giving up, picking up the knife the stalker had dropped and cutting the twine free, though it stuck to Jayden’s wrists, trapped in the grooves that were now rubbed into his best friend’s wrists. 

Jayden wailed as Lux touched him, and Lux was quick to say, “Hey, hey, Jayden, It’s me. It’s Lux. Okay?”

Jayden blinked, though he didn’t seem to really be aware of what was happening, or maybe he couldn’t see Lux with how much blood was in his eyes.

“Alright, hold on, man. Hold on.”

Lux dialed for the police as quickly as he could, holding pressure on the biggest wounds he could see, though wondering if it would be useless. There was just so much blood on Jayden, the stalker, and the floor.

…………………………………..

Massive tissue damage, three surgeries for slashed ligaments, surgery for damage to his right eye, permanent damage to his vocal chords, and severe PTSD. Where did that leave Jayden?

Jayden sat in a hospital bed with Lux by his side. Lux hadn’t left since this all started, which Jayden was extremely glad for. He didn’t want to be alone. He didn’t think he could ever allow himself to be alone again.

(But he would have to. He knew he would have to, but that was a struggle for a different day.)

“You can still act,” Lux assured him. “I can find you other roles. Not horror, probably. We could sell books and then you wouldn’t have to worry about money while you get back on your feet.”

Jayden closed his unbandaged eye. “Could….. Could you just do it? I can’t.”

Lux was silent for a moment, and a gentle hand rested on Jayden’s shoulder. “Okay. I’ll take care of it, man. You’ll get through this. You got into the film industry. This’ll be a walk in the park in comparison to that, right?”

Jayden looked at Lux, who gave him an encouraging smile. Getting through it all seemed impossible, but maybe it wasn’t. 

“Okay. Thanks, Lux. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Absolutely.” 

@whumpsday @bees-andbees @happy-little-sadist

Neat. Hope you enjoyed.

*cartwheels into my pillow nest*

POV Whumper loved whumpee in their role as whumpee in a horror movie. They introduce themself as whumpee's #1 fan.

And they want to hear those pretty screams again.