#National Chopsticks Day

[manifestdestinytarot]

37/365 - cda•idaho•america

[rabbitcruiser]

National Chopsticks Day

Take part in an ancient tradition that has been around for thousands of years in the Asian culture by eating with and enjoying the unique experience of chopsticks.

National Chopsticks Day appears as a fun and fascinating reason to show appreciation for this little pair of utensils. So put down that fork, set aside that knife, and pick up these two little sticks that can usher in a whole new experience! 

History of National Chopsticks Day

Getting their start at least 3000 years ago or more, chopsticks originated in China and were first used as utensils in the process of cooking. With ancient roots, these convenient tools began to be used as a tool for individuals to eat noodles, rice, meat, vegetables and much more, probably around 400 BC. This was likely a time when resources became scarce and the food needed to be chopped into small bits to cook faster and save on fuel.

In the end, there was a need for some sort of tool to help with eating, and it was obviously a much-needed innovation because the tool began to spread. Chopsticks made their way from China into other Asian countries, like Korea, Japan, Vietnam and many others.

Originally made from bamboo, chopsticks have since been made from all sorts of traditional substances, including different types of wood, metal, ivory and ceramics. Of course, more recently, chopsticks have been made from plastics, resin, stainless steel and even titanium. In addition, chopsticks have been valued and appreciated for their beauty, particularly when they have been decorated with precious substances or painted with unique artwork.

By 1878, the disposable bamboo chopstick was designed by the Japanese, called “waribashi”. Many people don’t realize that the average person in China has typically used up to 200 sets of disposable chopsticks every year.

To minimize the use of disposable chopsticks and save the earth along the way, the Chinese government imposed a tax on chopsticks in April 2006. The tax of 5% was not only for those in China, but also spread from there into the places where the China chopstick makers export to, such as Japan or Korea.

Now, National Chopsticks Day is here to pay honor and respect to the longstanding, ancient tradition of using chopsticks as a cooking and eating utensil!

National Chopsticks Day Timeline

1700-1200 BC

Chinese people begin using chopsticks

Originally used in the cooking process, chopsticks function more like tongs in these early days.

400 AD

Other utensils are invented

Forks, spoons and knives begin common use as eating utensils.

500 AD

Chopsticks make their way to Japan

Making a stop in Korea first, chopsticks travel from China to Kyoto at the east end of the Silk Road.

1878

Disposable chopsticks gain use

In Japan, disposable bamboo chopsticks are created.

2006

China imposes a chopstick tax

To reduce wasting natural resources, China institutes a 5% tax on disposable chopsticks, which also had an impact on chopsticks exported to Japan.

How to Celebrate National Chopsticks Day

Take eating to the next level by enjoying National Chopsticks Day! Get excited about celebrating the day by implementing some of these special ideas:

Learn More About Using Chopsticks

While many Westerners are more used to using a fork and knife, one delightful activity for National Chopsticks Day might be to learn how to use chopsticks. For many people, it can require a bit of practice while the motor memory is retained.

Not only is learning how to use chopsticks an important cultural activity, it also could have other benefits. These benefits can include improving hand-eye coordination, teaching finger isolation and manipulation, strengthening the hand muscles, and improving fine motor skills. Some people even believe that using chopsticks can make the memory even better!

While considering chopsticks, consider some of this etiquette around the utensils: 

In Japan, it is rude to cross the chopsticks on the table or to stick the chopsticks vertically in a pile of rice.

In Taiwan, it’s poor etiquette to let chopsticks linger in the mouth or to bite on them.

The Chinese consider it to be poor form to spear the food with chopsticks or to tap the chopsticks on the bowl.

In Korea, it is rude to pick up chopsticks or other utensils before the elders at the table do.

Eat with Chopsticks

While chopsticks could certainly be tried with almost any kind of food (though perhaps a burger or a slice of pizza might be complicated), they are best when used to eat food that hails from Asia. Delicious food that is Japanese, Chinese, Korean or Vietnamese can all be appreciated when eaten with chopsticks.

Enjoy Some Fun Facts About Chopsticks

In honor and celebration of National Chopsticks Day, this is the time to increase that knowledge about these interesting little sticks. After learning some facts, go ahead and share some of them with friends or family members to raise awareness in honor of the day! Try out some of these fun facts and bits of trivia to get started:

Chopsticks are different in different countries. For instance, the chopsticks found in China are longer than those in other Asian countries, with wide tapered ends that make them slightly easier to use. Chopsticks in Korea have more of a flat shape, and those from Vietnam have an end that is more blunt.

Some people actually have an irrational fear of chopsticks! The name of this disorder is Consecotaleophobia and has been included in the field of psychiatry.

In the past, silver chopsticks were used by royal families in China to check for poison. Because certain poisons would cause the silver chopsticks to turn black, giving a forewarning of danger. Since then, silver chopsticks have been a sign of wealth, affluence and style.

Chopsticks have superstitions associated with them. As an intricate part of the Asian culture, some omens go along with the use of chopsticks. For instance, holding chopsticks completely upright is a bad omen. Also, dropping chopsticks is a sign of bad luck.

Purchase Some Fancy Chopsticks

One lovely way to celebrate National Chopsticks Day might be to make an investment in a new set (or several) of higher end chopsticks. Chopsticks can be made out of bamboo or other woods and then decorated in a variety of ways.

For instance, try out a set that is made from rosewood and then decorated with gold tips. Try some pairs made with lacquer that can then be personalized with the names of everyone in the family. Or, those who are very serious about celebrating the day might be interested in pure, solid silver chopsticks that are handcrafted and decorated with Chinese calligraphy. 

National Chopsticks Day FAQs

How do you use chopsticks?

Hold the chopsticks loosely at a slight angle from each other. The chopstick held by the thumb can stay stable while the other one is moved back and forth with the fingers.

What country did chopsticks come from?

Chopsticks likely originated in China around 1200 BC or even earlier.

Did chopsticks come before forks?

Yes. Forks and spoons were not invented until 400 AD.

Do chopsticks make you eat less?

People who eat with chopsticks may eat more slowly, which causes them to get fuller faster and eat less food.

Are chopsticks reusable?

Most quality chopsticks are made to be used, washed and used again for years, though some chopsticks are made of bamboo and are considered to be ‘disposable’.

Source

[subby-sab]

Today is 6th of February.

Today is International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, National Chopsticks Day, National Frozen Yogurt Day.

[nationaldaysbydigitalhygge]

February 6th, 2025:

National Chopsticks Day

National Frozen Yogurt Day

National Lame Duck Day

National Valentine Shopping Reminder Day

Ronald Reagan Day

Optimist Day

Time to Talk Day 🇬🇧

World Muay Thai Day

Pay a Compliment Day

Reclaim Social Day

International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

National Sweater Day

Source: https://digitalhygge.com/february-6/

[glamourscat]

Can I get any headcanons for Rin Okumura w/ a foreign s/o who’s trilingual? Like maybe they have a sort of culture shock in their lifestyle differences? Maybe the s/o can be from a completely different continent and studying to become an exorcist from their nationality section? Just a thought, if not, feel free to ignore mad delete the quest plz and thank you!

a/n: I ABSOLUTELY LOVE RIN THANK YOU FOR THIS ASK😭🙏🏻 also sorry for eventual grammar errors :/

* now, this might be wishful thinking of me, but considering the Japan branch is controlled by the grigori and there are multiple scenes in the manga where some of the characters mention just being back from the Vatican

* I like to think the oldest, and main, branch of the exorcist is indeed in Italy, Rome, near the Vatican headquarters. Is basically the oldest and most powerful institution, having people all over the globe.

* I imagine that one day, the Japan branch is in need of new members, so the Italian branch sends some of the students to form overseas

* Which is how you meet the others and Rin. Mephisto presented you and your whole group to the class. Maybe you just so happen to sit beside Rin. Which would be both amusing and awkward as he is an odd ball.

* Especially if he is under the impression you don’t speak Japanese very well, he will stare at you like this 🧍🏻‍♂️(cut to a broken English moment like bachira in that one clip of blue lock)

* But anyway, I think he would be the most prone and interested right off the bat. He loves cooking and baking, we know that right? So imagine him asking you for recipes on recipes from your country.

* Still, Japan has a very different culture, especially if you’re from Europe/the states. I can see someone who’s not used to remove their shoes indoor 24/7 for example, forgetting about it and Rin just looks at you like this

* The thing is, despite the little differences Rin always felt he didn’t fit in. Since before he found out he was half demon. So, falling in love with a foreigner it’s not too far fetched for him. He is probably one of the few who I can actually see dating (and marrying) a foreigner.

* He knows what it means being different, feeling the odd one out, so the little cultural differences don’t really face him that much

* If anything, with the excuse of spending more time with you, he will try to teach you a few things here and there

* How to use chopsticks. The proper honours greeting in Japan. How to act in temples.

* Rin is not one to follow the rules, but he is still respectful and excited for traditional Japanese celebrations. By good or stories, he will try to immerse you in the culture somehow

* Which side note, but I can 100% see him dressing you and him up in a kimono for a festival that requires more traditional wearing

* Also, he was sheltered most of his life— considering his troubled childhood. We saw in the impure king arc how excited he was at the idea of travelling to Kyoto that I wouldn’t put it past him if he had looked up “Kyoto itinerary what to see”

* So having a s/o who speaks multiple languages? That’s just a bonus. He will follow you like a puppy around the world just excited to be with you and being able to share these opportunities.

* After all, being an exorcist means travelling all over the place the higher your position in. And Rin wants to become the paladin. Sooo, kill two birds with one stone?

[firelordsfirelady]

XIX. Food Fight

Author: @firelordsfirelady

Imagine: When Y/N—a princess of one of the Water Tribes—is told she’s leaving her tribe, she never expects that she’s to be betrothed to the Fire Lord’s son, nor was she prepared to be exiled the very day she arrived at the Fire Nation. With her life in the hands of her new fiancée, how will life change for the princess? 

Pairing: Zuko x F!Reader

Trigger warnings: arranged marriage, feelings of fear, banishment, mentions of burns/abuse, frustration, violence, betrayal, language

Word Count: 1924

Destined to be Yin and Yang 

I own no rights to Avatar the Last Airbender or any of the characters/story.  

Author’s Notes

The characters as all aged up so Zuko’s banishment happens when he’s 16 

Keep in mind I am bringing a unique world with inspiration from ATLA in their characters, some of the events that happen, bending, etc. Not many things may align or occur with what happened in the show. It’s intended that way, so I hope you enjoy it regardless.

See Y/N’s look this chapter here. 

Destined to be Yin and Yang Soundtrack (YouTube)

Several hours later I sat fussing with my hair as I finished the final twist in my hair. I smiled to myself as I took a final look in the small mirror in my room. Smoothing down the front of the red dress I wore, I felt the butterflies fluttering nervously about within my abdomen.

Should I wear my regular clothes? The anxious thought crossed my mind as I briefly looked at the three other outfits I had tried on. Deciding that I liked the way red looked on me, I left my room and headed towards the dining room’s closed double doors. I took a moment to tuck any stray hairs behind my ears before I opened the door to find Zuko sitting at the table. Two plates rested on each side of the table across from each other, and Zuko was sitting at the one facing towards the door. He stood up quickly to greet me as I smiled at the red tint to his cheeks and walked into the room. He wore the same long black robe he relaxed in with some comfortable clothes underneath.

“Y/N,” Zuko’s voice sounded a bit nervous as he spoke. “You look pretty tonight.” His eyes widened as I blushed from his words. “Not that you don’t look pretty all the time.” My heart leapt for joy in my chest as my cheeks burned from the compliment, and I smiled at the Firebender before I sheepishly replied to him.

“You don’t look to bad yourself.” I sent a wink his direction as I found some courage to add, “I like seeing you relaxed.” Zuko’s cheeks tinted pink before he smiled and motioned to the plate across from where he was sitting. 

“Care to join me for some dinner?” I nodded as I went and grabbed the plate from the side of the table and carried it to sit next to the slightly shocked Firbender’s spot at the table.

“Don’t look at me like that,” I said with a slight laugh. “I feel so far away sitting on the other side.” Sitting down on the bench, Zuko came and sat in his original spot at the table. Shortly after we sat down, the doors opened as Shisam and Zaijim walked in with two plates and a pitcher of water. They served us before bowing and walking out the room, closing the door behind them. Uncovering the dish, I found a spiced dish greeting my nostrils as I smiled to find that it was my favorite Fire Nation dish--extra spicy fire noodles with spicy garlic pan-seared Salmon.

“Is this okay?” Zuko’s voice was soft as he asked his question before he added in a low whisper, “It’s one of my favorite dishes back home.”

“Really? It’s one of your favorite dishes?” I asked in slight shock as I looked at the sheepish Firebender. “This is one of my favorite Fire Nation dishes too.” The smile on my lips was wide as it was Zuko’s turn to look at me with slight surprise before the surprise faded to a smile.

“I never knew that.” Zuko casually said as he started to eat his noodles with his chopsticks.

“You were too busy chasing the Avatar before, remember?” I asked with a light laugh before using my own chopsticks to start eating. Zuko’s cheeks had just returned to their normal caramel color, but my teasing had his cheeks tinting pink again. “I’m still torn in the decision of if it’s my favorite dish though.” I shrugged. “I still love the sea prawn dumpling soup my mom makes back home.” The Fire Nation’s prince looked at me with a raised eyebrow.

“Sea prawn dumpling soup?” He asked with curiosity clear in his voice. “I can’t say that I have had it before.” 

“Maybe I’ll make some for you one day.” I smiled at Zuko as I reached for my glass of water. “It’s been ages since I have had some. It won’t be as good as Mother’s though.” I let out an airy laugh before I took a sip of water as my cheeks heated slightly under the look Zuko gave me. 

“I’ll hold you up to that.” He said as he grabbed his glass of water. Zuko and I held a light conversation as we continued to eat our food. We shared small details about some of our favorite things from our childhoods and the things we missed most about our homes. I loved listening to Zuko as he talked about feeding the turtle ducks as a child, and I talked about how I used to ice skate as a kid on the frozen lake back home.

“I miss it sometimes.” I said with a sigh a little while later. “The simplicity of home.” Zuko grew quiet as he slightly frowned.

“I do too.” He said quietly as he swirled the liquid in his cup, but I reached a gentle hand out and grabbed his hand that didn’t hold the cup. Zuko turned his attention away from the cup to look at me as I softly smiled at the Firebender.

“As much as I miss it,” I started off quietly as I slowly leaned forward towards Zuko. “I can’t say that I don’t love this life I live with you.” Zuko’s wide eyes searched mine for a shred of deceit in my words, but he found nothing but honesty. “It’s funny--I used to dream about traveling the world when I was a little girl.” I chuckled at my naive self. “I soon realized that wouldn’t be possible.” Smiling as I looked at Zuko, I gently touched the outer edge of his scar. “Life has a funny way of proving me wrong.” I gently placed a kiss on Zuko’s lips before I gave him a genuine smile.

“Thank you for inviting me to dinner tonight.” Zuko’s cheeks were red as I leaned back and removed my hand from his face. 

“Shall we do this again tomorrow?” Zuko nervously asked in a soft voice, and I tried my best to bite back the big smile on my lips at how cute the Firebender was when he was nervous.

“Absolutely.” Zuko gave me a smile as I smiled at him then I stood up and gathered the dishes. Zuko tried to grab the dishes from me.

“I can handle this.” One of my eyebrows raised itself at his words.

“I thought it was improper of someone of such status to do the dishes?” I said in a teasing tone, and Zuko’s cheeks turned slightly crismon as he slightly tugged at the dishes in my hands. “Plus, I’m late making my cookies.”

“I can handle the dishes, so you can start your cookies.” Zuko’s eyebrow raised itself as he made his offer, and I laughed at his attempt to negotiate with me.

“Deal.” I said as I let go of the plates so Zuko could carry them. “You just want to know the secret recipe.” The teasing tone to my words must’ve sent his cheeks burning because the shade of red on his cheeks darkened.

We walked together to the kitchen and started on our tasks as we joked and carried on. Once Zuko finished the dishes, he came over and started helping me make the cookies. I had set down a cup of measured flour on the counter.

“Pour this into the bowl slowly--” My instructions were cut short by the flour dust cloud that attacked Zuko’s face as he dumped the cup of flour into the mixing bowl. The fine white powder on the Firebender’s shocked face made me grab my abdomen and double over in laughter. He grabbed a nearby towel and wiped his face from the white powder as I measured another cup of flour. I moved to slowly add the flour in, but my hand shook too violently and the other half of the flour fell into the bowl and caused a puff of flour to erupt in my face. A brief silence fell upon the kitchen before mine and Zuko’s laughter filled the air.

“It looked so fun when you did it,” I teased between fits of laughter. “I just had to do it too.” Zuko was still laughing as he handed me the same towel he used to wipe his face. I smiled mischievously as he kept laughing at me before I took a handful of flour and threw it at the laughing Firebender. His laughter ceased as the reality of the situation dawned on him. I smiled as I snuck another handful of flour behind him back and slowly backed away from the flour as Zuko’s eyes shifted to look at me mischievously. I let out a small yelp as I ducked the handful of powder the Prince grabbed and threw at me before he met another surprise blast of white powder. I couldn’t hold back the laughter that erupted from me at the annoyed look on Zuko’s face. The laughter didn’t stop as he tackled me to the ground and pinned my wrists beside my head.

“Oh? So it’s funny to do that huh?” Zuko teased as he looked at me with a smirk. “How funny is this then?” He quickly threw a handful of flour in my face, which stopped my laughter for a moment as I stared at the Firebender with wide eyes. The intense stare off lasted only a few moments before I started laughing again, and Zuko joined in as he let go of my wrists. As our laughter died down, Zuko averted his gaze with a blush as I gently smiled at him. I reached out to light touch his scar, which caused Zuko to slowly look at me. My eyes met Zuko’s intense golden orbs as I looked at him with a big smile. 

“Who knew life with you could be so much fun?” I whispered then wiggled my eyebrows at Zuko before the Firebender’s cheeks turned red and he got off of me to help me up from the floor. We washed our hands and I let Zuko clean the floors while I finished making the batter for my cookies. Zuko helped me finish baking the cookies, and he even accompanied me with delivering the cookies to the crew after we finished washing the dishes.

As we walked back with a plate of cookies for Iroh, I was almost startled by Zuko’s hand slipping into mine, but I didn’t let him see the rush of blood that came to my cheeks as his fingers interlaced with mine. Zuko pulled me to a soft stop outside of my door, and I turned to look at him with a raised eyebrow.

“I can finish taking the cookies to my uncle.” Zuko said with tinted cheeks. “Thank you for coming to dinner with me.” Smiling widely at Zuko, I leaned forward to whisper to him.

“Thank you for inviting me to dinner.” I winked at Zuko before I leaned back. “Are you sure that you want to drop off Iroh’s cookies? I can do that.” Zuko nodded his head. 

“You need to rest.” He said without meeting my eyes. “The Avatar won’t hide for long, and I’ll need you there with me.” His last words were barely a whisper as I felt my heart doing flips in my chest. I lightly kissed Zuko on the lips in response, and then kissed his cheek. 

“Shall you and I train tomorrow too?” I asked with a raised eyebrow, and Zuko smiled at me.

“Absolutely.”

Tag List @chevysstuffs @puttyly @ginger24880 @night-fall-moon @junieshohoho @0kauy @coolgirl458 @hypnoticbeing @angelruinz @preeyansha @playboygeniusphilanthropist @ssonniiu  @chi-ara @hagridshaircare @stell404 @kyo-kyo1 @herondale-lightworm @simonsbluee @nadlx33333 @nerdisthenewcool @jewelsrules @soggycrout0n @mymomsdisappointment @leeaintthere-blog @sanskritisays

[kaeyas-beloved]

Character: Childe

— he’s hopelessly in love with you <333

CWs: spoilers for Childe’s real name, gn!reader (no pronouns mentioned), not proofread!

a/n: snatching this format that I’ve seen around Tumblr because I like it and it fits here. Will I use it again? Not a clue!

hopelessly in love ajax who introduces you to his family relatively quickly and with little to no hesitation. childe feels with his whole being, love is no exception. so, when he can see a future with you, no matter what form that future may take, you meeting his family is the first step forward.

hopelessly in love ajax who’s all talk unless you make the first move. he can kiss you over and over and over again, teasing you along the way, but the moment you pull him forward and plant your lips on his face before he can is the same moment it’s all over for him.

hopelessly in love ajax who buys you gifts often but they all have sentimental value to them. he’ll but you flowers, handing them to you with the confession that he bought them because his love for you was too much to keep in his heart and no amount of words would describe what he was feeling. childe would also purchase your preferred jewelry - watch, ring, necklace, earrings, a bracelet, whatever you liked, as long as you promised to wear it whenever you went out. “so you’ll always have me with you!”

hopelessly in love ajax who refuses to let go of you once he has you in his arms. he acts like he might perish if he loses the warmth and love you radiate in your embrace! it’s not that he hasn’t received a hug in years, he gets plenty when he visits home, but there’s just something different in your hugs and cuddles that regular holds don’t have. a certain feeling they lack.

hopelessly in love ajax who grabs your wrist if you’re ever helping him take off his scarf or fatui mask, allowing his cheek to rest in your palm. you’ll find he nuzzles into it much like a cat would, but unlike a cat looking for warmth or to scratch an itch, ajax does it because your touch is one of the few things that soothes him after a long day, his mind instantly at ease.

hopelessly in love ajax who tries to impress you in any way he can. it starts simple enough, trying to flash his strength on the battle field and such, but the more he falls for you the more creative he gets. balancing a spoon on his nose, his (slowly improving) chopstick skills, leaping over decent sized creeks, anything to rouse some kind of pleasant response from you.

hopelessly in love ajax who flips between drowning you in whatever fancy dates his money can buy and the more simple, quieter date ideas. it’s never bad to change things up, he reasons, childe’s favourite being to take you out on walks through the nation’s scenery. whether it’s the snow dipped forests in snezhnaya, the golden mountains of liyue or even the green fields of mondstadt, as long as ajax is around, he’ll make sure you enjoy your time with him. (he certainly will be, because when dates like this happen is when he truly gets to connect with you!)

hopelessly in love ajax who’ll sometimes just stare at you. could be while you’re cuddling or sat at the table for a meal, his pretty blue eyes are on you, taking in all that you are. he’ll think how gorgeous you look, how luck he is someone like you loves someone like him, the darker sides of him and all. he thinks about how it’s now his mission to spoil and love you for the rest of his life, because anything less is a crime punishable by life behind bars.

Tag list: @spoopy-fish-writes // @that-enby-alien // @xenuuu // @mariposa666haruka // @quackquackmfs // @saishin-michiyoshi // @ajaxstar // @genshin-impact-writings // @ventisweetheart // @lordbugs // @lemontum // @akiria12167 // @ari-the-wr1ter // @dontmindmebeing // @xiaos-wife // @irethepotato // @milkwithspiceyicecubes // @stygianoir // @stage-lucida

. . .

Wanna be tagged in future works? Consider filling out this form! And if you want to be removed just DM or send an ask into my inbox!

[sssammich]

collateral ch7

hello here's a quick update

chapter 7 on ao3

samfic: collateral is the main tag for all the other tumblr parts

ok thx bye

---

Lena and Jack returned from their honeymoon a few days ago. She didn’t want to know this, but she was the maid of honor, so of course she knew. Yet as soon as the newlyweds landed back in National City, Kara had a text waiting from her best friend requesting a much-needed catch up. 

She wanted to say no, the month-long distance had become somewhat of a healing balm for her heart. It really did help that Lena was out of sight for Kara to keep her out of mind. It wasn’t foolproof, of course, but she appreciated the reprieve. It was one thing to pine after her best friend, but now that Lena was married, she’d never felt more pathetic. Perhaps she was more pathetic for carrying a torch for her best friend after so many years, but Kara found that she couldn’t let go. 

The truth of the matter was that she just couldn’t leave Lena. Lena could leave her, and she would allow it. Welcomed it, even. But she simply couldn’t be the one to step away first.

So here she was, waiting in front of their favorite Chinese restaurant, their agreed upon dinner destination for the evening. She scanned the passing crowds of pedestrians down the riverwalk, wondering if any of them knew how she felt. If they, too, had somehow wrangled their heart in a mess of loving the wrong person. 

When Lena came into view, Kara instantly stopped her pacing, clammy hands set on her waist so she stopped fiddling. 

Kara opened her arms and Lena jumped into them for a fierce hug, squeezing her best friend tightly in her arms, basking in the weight of Lena surrounding her. She was only human, after all. 

“I really thought you’d look like a lobster by now,” Kara teased as they pulled apart. 

“Do you honestly think I would go out into the sun willingly? You know I would never subjugate my Irish complexion to the sun like that.” 

Kara shook her head just as she pulled the door open for the both of them, exaggerating her bow and eliciting a giggle from Lena. They were seated quickly, 

“So what have you been up to?” Lena asked, placing her napkin on her lap. Kara opened her mouth to answer, flashes of her days sitting alone came to mind only to be superseded by her trysts with Andrea. She shut her mouth, lips forming into a thin line. 

“You know, stuff.” 

Lena’s brow quirked upward, and Kara knew there was a probing question at the tip of the other woman’s tongue. 

“I find that hard to believe.” 

She shook her head. “It’s just much of the same ol’, same ol’. Not really worth talking about my boring life. Not when you just got back from your trip.” 

Moss green eyes narrowed slightly, studying her, but Kara put up her best smile. 

“It was lovely,” Lena fawned eventually, seemingly willing to play along, recounting stories about their various destinations dotting southern Europe and Northern Africa. They fell into easy conversation after that just as Kara fell into her role. The teasing and the joking and the questions came out smoothly enough, so to Kara, that too was enough. 

She was just about to dig into a potsticker when her phone buzzed on the table. A message popped up with a message from Andrea. 

Do you have dinner plans? 

She frowned before quickly picking up and thumbing back a response. 

Yeah. Sorry

No apologies necessary. Talk soon.

“Sorry about that,” she mumbled, accompanying it with an equally apologetic grin, before turning her phone face down and resuming how she spooned some more rice on her plate. 

“Everything alright?” Lena asks, chopsticks held up in mid-air.

“Yeah, yeah. Andrea just wanted to know if I had dinner plans, which—” she paused with a slight shrug and a huffed laugh, eyeing their table. “Obviously, I already do.” 

Lena hummed and offered her a nod. Then, coolly, she asked, “Is that anything?” 

“Is what anything?” 

Lena only rolled her eyes, resting her chin on the heel of her palm. “You and Andrea. You two were awfully cozy at the wedding. Fast friends and all.” 

She should probably deny everything now, nip whatever ideas Lena might have about her and Andrea in the bud. But something niggled in the back of her mind with the way Lena watched her as she waited for a response. 

“Nah.” She shook her head, taking a sip of her water, mouth suddenly parched. “I mean, I don’t think so.” 

“You don’t know?” 

“We just hang out sometimes.” She did not elaborate that they have only mostly hung out in each other's bed or couch. A few times on Andrea’s kitchen counter and once on her living room floor.

“That’s—honestly, I’m a little surprised.” 

Her brows knitted together. “What do you mean?” 

Lena shrugged. “Just didn’t think you two would get along so easily. Andrea can be prickly, I suppose. And you’re…light.”  

“Light,” she echoed. 

Lena laughed a little to herself. “I don’t mean anything by it, darling. I’m just saying that you’re easygoing and bright and she’s a bit of a brooder, that’s all.” 

That was a bit of a surprise to Kara, if she was being honest. Perhaps it was due to the fact that she didn’t see this brooding Andrea on their way to a bed. Or when they spent evenings without sex on the table, the conversations remained surface level, safe. 

It reminded Kara that how either of them knew Andrea were not the same at all. 

“Well, we just hang out,” she reaffirmed. 

“That’s good.” Lena stuffed a potsticker in her mouth and chewed carefully, slowly, and every second pricked Kara’s brain. “You know you can be with whomever you want, darling. You know I’ll support you.”

“Even if I ended up with Andrea?” she asked, curiosity getting the best of her.

Lena tipped her head to the side, sitting back in her chair before clearing her throat. “Of course. However, I’m well within my rights as your best friend to give her the shovel talk if such a thing arises.” 

Kara huffed out a snort and shook her head. “Shouldn’t you also give me the shovel talk? She’s your friend, too.”

It was then that Lena pushed herself up and took another bite of her food before settling her chopsticks on the side of her plate. She met Kara’s eyes. “Yeah, maybe. But she’s not my favorite.” 

Lena's smile was radiant and playful and everything she wanted.

Kara wished she hadn’t said a thing.

—

After dinner, Kara and Lena parted ways when Kara declined Lena’s offer to drive her back to her apartment and instead opted to walk to the train station and go home that way. 

“Are you sure?” Lena asked. “You know it’s no trouble. I’m happy to do it.” 

Kara's phone buzzed in her hand and interrupted her thoughts. She glanced down to try and see who it was, surprised to find Andrea texting her. 

Andrea: Oh my god are you at dinner with her right now? 

“Um, it’s nice out,” she said finally, dragging her eyes away from her phone screen to the expectant eyes of her best friend. “The walk would be nice, and I need to digest.” 

Lena regarded her for a second before pulling back and nodding, situating herself in the driver’s seat. “Alright. Text me when you get home?” 

“You, too.” 

Kara stepped back from the driver’s side window, shoving her fists in the pockets of her jacket and flashing Lena her best smile. She then took a hand out and waved goodbye as Lena drove away from the curb just to stop at the nearby traffic intersection. Kara refused to move from her spot, but otherwise answered the phone when it buzzed in her pocket. 

“Hello,” she said, not bothering to look at the caller ID somehow already knowing who it was. 

Sure enough, the dulcet tone of Andrea’s voice came through the phone. “Is she still there? Please tell me she is.” 

She sighed deeply before turning on her heel and walking towards the direction of the station. “You’re literally the worst. And no, she’s not. She just left.” 

“You didn’t go with her?” 

“You’re so annoying.” 

“You have a funny way of expressing your appreciation for my company.” 

Perhaps she should have hung up then and there. For whatever friendship she and Andrea may have forged since the wedding, there was something unnerving about Andrea’s relentless pursuit of antagonizing Kara at every turn. 

Still, the thought of being alone tonight after seeing Lena for the first time felt worse than entertaining Andrea’s presence. So she swallowed her pride. 

“I can express my appreciation at my apartment, if you’re free later.” 

Silence draped over their phone call and Kara waited, wondering what the other woman was thinking. 

“I’ll be by around ten, querida.” 

—

Kara opened her door to Andrea wearing jeans and a blue sleeveless blouse, emphasizing the blue in her eyes. For someone who was meeting Kara at ten o’clock at night, she looked much more put together than Kara who stood in her sweats and t-shirt. 

“You look like a frat boy.” 

She stepped aside, a frown on her face. “Uh, thanks?”

Andrea crossed the threshold and passed her by, placing her purse on the couch and glancing around Kara’s apartment. 

“That wasn’t a compliment.” 

Kara shook her head and knew that if she could put up with Andrea’s random judgment comments, she could do anything. She handed Andrea a glance of red wine after they made their way to her kitchen island.

“Didn't really take you for a booty call, Pulitzer." Andrea took a sip of her drink, twisting her glass by the stem.

She scrunched her face.

"Relax," Andrea said, walking towards her, raising a hand to catch Kara's chin between her index finger and thumb. "I need you loose and limber."

"You're such a bitch."

"Ooh, dirty talk."

She rolled her eyes, but there was now a reluctant smile on her face.

"There she is," Andrea smirked with satisfaction. "You done pouting like a baby?"

Kara huffed. "I wasn't pouting like a baby. I was just tired."

“Mm. Pining after a married woman does that to you,” Andrea said with a shrug. “Or so I've heard.” 

“I wasn't pining! Besides, I thought you were gonna help me out."

The other woman rolled her eyes, leaning against the kitchen island and folding one arm under the other so she could hold her glass up. "Alright, you have a minute to talk about it."

"Not really much to talk about. She’s-they're back from their honeymoon, of course had the time of their life probably. I was kinda dreading seeing her, but it turned out better than I thought. I was really hoping that all this time she was gone would've helped, but just seeing her again—"

"Not as strong as you thought, huh?"

Her jaw had dropped, but the pointed look Andrea threw her way had her indignation deflate. "No, guess not."

Silence sat between them, Andrea watching her while Kara stared off into space. Then Andrea downed the rest of her wine and placed the glass back on the counter.

"Alright, minute's up."

Kara's jaw dropped again, shock plastered on her face. Then she shook her head because if nothing else, she knew what she was getting with Andrea. "You are kind of terrible, you know that?"

“Say less. Please.” Andrea put a hand up. Kara effectively shut up. When Andrea pointed towards her bedroom she only nodded and followed quietly after as Andrea made herself at home. 

“Should we set some boundaries?” she asked, situating herself by her bedroom dresser. 

Andrea scoffed and turned at her incredulously. “What is this, a romcom?” 

“No? But we're not dating and it's just sex.” 

Sitting on the edge of Kara’s bed, Andrea leaned down and carefully tugged her heels off of her feet to reveal red polished toenails. “Those already sound like boundaries to me.”

“Can you stop joking for a second?” 

"That's rich, coming from the one instating boundaries about hooking up after we've already been hooking up for like a month because the object of your affections returned from her honeymoon." She bristled at the comment, the tips of her ears blooming red, but didn't say anything. The other woman leaned further back slightly on one arm as she studied Kara. “Has it ever occurred to you that whatever this exchange is has less to do with your broken heart and more to do with how thoroughly I want to be fucked?”

When Kara didn’t immediately say anything, Andrea only pulled her blouse off to reveal smooth soft skin and a matching blue silk bra. Kara simply gaped at her before she was able to reel herself back from gawking. 

Andrea just laughed as she leaned further down on her elbows, showing off her body. “Good. That's the correct response. Now, come on, I want to come at least three times tonight for my troubles.”

Kara shook her head before she walked towards Andrea, her legs brushing up against Andrea’s now bare feet. She then pulled her shirt off and revealed her own naked body, smirking all the while when Andrea’s eyes drank her in, Kara’s ego.  

“That’s more like it.” 

“Shut up,” she said without much bite before crawling over Andrea and meeting their lips together. This was the transaction. She put up with Andrea's mouth and, in turn, she gave back just as good with hers. Enough for three. At least.

It was not a smart or healthy coping mechanism to punctuate the time she spent with Lena by getting in bed with Andrea. Yet she couldn’t help herself because at least Andrea made her forget. At least she was able to open her eyes to blue-green eyes that looked nothing like that of her best friend’s and it gave her a little bit of hope. 

More than anything, she needed that little bit of hope if she had any chance of surviving this heartbreak. 

—

It was a little after midnight when they finished, easily reaching and surpassing Andrea's demands. Kara slouched against her headboard just as Andrea threw the covers back and began searching for her clothes. Kara's eyes narrowed on all the spots and bruises she'd marked on Andrea's chest and stomach and inner thighs. An odd sense of pride overcame her at the satisfaction she heartily gave the other woman, only to be brought back down with the burning shame that she wished it was Lena parading around her room with all of her marks.

Fully clothed, Andrea didn't look like she'd just been fucked well and thoroughly, save perhaps for the tousled way her hair has been thrown in a messy bun. Kara stayed on her side of the bed and simply watched until Andrea placed her foot in her heels and headed towards her.

"Heading out?" she asked needlessly. Andrea responded by sitting on the edge of the bed.

"Mmhmm. I have a couple of early meetings in the office."

She nodded, uncertain on how to proceed next.

"Listen, I'll text you next when I'm free."

She nodded again.

"In the meantime, do me a favor and don't text Lena this week."

She opened her mouth to protest, but Andrea placed her hand on Kara's mouth.

"If she texts you, text her back—don't be an asshole. But don't text her first. Or call, for that matter."

"What?" she asked, after Andrea brought her hand back down.

"Set some boundaries."

She pushed herself up, the sheet covering her chest falling to her lap. "She's my best friend, I can't just—I can't just ignore her!"

"Is that what I said?"

"She'll know something's up," she reasoned, though her voice was weak.

"Then don't let her find out. You've spent god knows how long hiding your feelings from her, what's another one?"

Kara's body slumped back down against the headboard, her eyes focused on some blur behind Andrea's shoulder.

"You wanted my help, this is it. Take it or leave it."

"Is this my only option?"

Andrea let out a dry laugh, stretching her neck. "Of course not. You can always come clean and see what happens with that or quit her cold turkey and fuck off to a different part of the globe."

She sighed and shut her eyes, knew that Andrea was right. When she opened her eyes, Andrea was staring right into her.

"Why do all of those options suck?" Her voice was hoarse with the threat of tears lodged in her throat.

In a rare moment of softness, Andrea reached out to unfurl one of Kara's fists and caressed her palm. "Because she's not yours, querida."

The words hit her like a bullet to the head, a sobering shock to her system, each of Andrea's words wreaking havoc inside of her.

Andrea wordlessly leaned over and kissed her on the cheek before walking out of her bedroom. Kara's ears strained to listen to the sound of Andrea's heels, each step assured and confident, before she heard the turn of her front door opening and closing with a thud.

Only when she was truly alone did she cover her eyes and allowed the tears to spill.

[avatar-legends-confessionblog]

hello, heterophobic anon here

giggling and twirling my hair at the thought of yuri zutara again 😌

zuko does katara’s makeup for an event and has to very carefully feed her dumplings with chopsticks so as to not smudge her lipstick. katara gives her a big kiss on the cheek at the end of the night, forgetting she has lipstick on and leaving a massive red mark on zuko’s cheek. zuko goes around the entire next day with it still on her face pretending she doesn’t notice.

ohhhhh katara being carried bridal style because a hole wore through the sole of one of her shoes and zuko being the gentlelady (?) she is doesn’t want her to walk on the fire nation streets while she has a chance to injure her foot

zuko ordering watertribe food en masse so katara can have the food she loves whenever she wants

(can you tell i love a doting zuko, i need zuko to cater to her hand and foot at all times. fire nation officials are snooty and wonder why zuko is catering to a water tribe peasant of all people. “that’s PRINCESS katara to you.” refusing to let anyone look down on the most powerful, beautiful, sweet waterbender in the world)

katara carving an engagement necklace for zuko. looked up chinese proposal customs, apparently in traditional chinese proposal ceremonies they give proposal necklaces so like. zuko also making one, fucking it up like thirty times, desperately trying to get it PERFECT. and when they propose (because of course they end up doing so at the same time, unbeknownst to the other) they both end up crying

they have a watertribe wedding first in the SWT, and then a fire nation wedding in the fire nation, and both are so beautiful and perfect and katara’s crying the whole time at both despite having told herself she wouldn’t cry, and zuko just holds her close and they dance the night away as newlyweds

what if i cry right now. yuri zutara.

X

[thesparklingwriter]

taking fate into one's own hands

04—acquaintance

Word count: 1.3k

navi | taglist | masterlist

You look at him carefully. Perhaps this whole act he’s putting on is an attempt to be more personable. But it’s in your best interests to, at the very least, get along with the man you’ve been promised to. When it comes to loveless marriages to bind nations, divorce isn’t an option. There’s no going back. 

“Alright, I’ll eat dinner with you.” You say quietly, and the sides of Morax’s lips quirk upwards. You’re convinced for a second that you made it up somehow, for even when he’d spoken to you as a dignitary, he hadn’t smiled once.

“I hope your room is to your liking,” He says, as you follow behind him. “If there’s anything that it is lacking, please do let me or one of the help know.”

You glance at him, convinced that he can’t be in earnest. He’d been so stoic when you first met him, and even once he’d come clean in regards to his identity, his emotions towards you had seemed to be nothing more than detached amusement.

“Everything is alright, thank you.” you say, bowing your head in gratitude to the man who places your food on your table. You hadn’t considered the change in cuisine and you steel your expression as well as you can, in order to not show your hesitation to eat the unfamiliar food. The butler pours you each a drink, a glistening pale wine, and bows as he excuses himself quietly. Besides your plate, there are golden chopsticks, and then a fork by its side, its dark silver tone standing out against the rest of the tableware. Is it some kind of test?

You glance worriedly between the two, as Morax’s unruffled gaze settles on you. 

“You seem troubled. If I may, might I request that you speak freely?”

You glance down at the cutlery again and back up at him, shaking your head softly. 

“Nothing troubles me.” you whisper, picking up the two chopsticks as confidently as you can, arranging them in your hands as subtly as you can. You haven’t seen anyone eat with chopsticks for a long time, and suddenly realise you should have waited for him to start so you could copy his technique.

You attempt to pretend to take a sip of your drink or look at the spices on the table to delay your eating, but Morax simply watches you with an even gaze as you quietly panic.

“Is the food not to your taste?” he asks you, finally looking away from you to pick up a fork. “I find that sometimes chopsticks make eating take longer than necessary. I used your arrival as a reason to justify getting some new cutlery.”

You blink at him. “Pardon me if I speak out of turn, but I had always believed you were a firm believer in traditions.” you refuse to relinquish your chopsticks, too embarrassed to admit that using them was a front to try and impress him. You hadn't realised you were acting in a way that might win his favour—and the thought of it surprises you.

Morax’s eyebrows quirk slightly at your implied question, carefully trying to craft an answer that wouldn’t make you question your presence in the palace too much. Perhaps the reaction you’ve had towards him so far is out of fear that you’re not Liyuean enough from him and his people. It wouldn’t be an absurd thought, but if the situation in your home nation remains as rocky as it is now, he wouldn’t want you to return. He certainly want to be the reason you go back, either.

“Ah,” he says quietly, chewing his food. “That is a common misconception. Perhaps when it comes to certain meetings and negotiations, it is true that I remain true to the conditions that have always been stipulated by ancient Liyuean law. However, I myself, think there isn’t much to be learned by holding steadfastly onto tradition in day to day life.”

You gape at him. “So I’m not to be hated by every member of Liyue for not hailing from here?”

Morax sighs. “I cannot speak for my people. I sometimes find they can be stubborn and they often do not like change.”

“You are not filling me with confidence.” You reply drily. Morax fixes you with an even stare, wanting to make sure you listen to his next words.

“I do not seek to deceive you.” he replies evenly. “As of right now, our arrangement is unofficial. Thus you have every right to choose how you wish to proceed. If you cannot bear to stay here with me for a moment longer, you may go home at any point.”

“But what would come of my kingdom, or of me?”

“That would be subject to negotiation. But in situations like that, Liyuean law isn’t particularly favourable for foreigners.”

The word foreigner hits you in your chest. Of course, you didn’t expect to be treated as if you were from here, but to be categorised as something else entirely? It stings, regardless of how you feel about the situation with Morax.

“Your food,” he prompts quietly. Even though you’re almost certain that he isn't going to smite you for using the fork instead of the chopsticks, you refuse to put them down, instead choosing to use them with varying degrees of success.

He watches you carefully, before silently switching to his own chopsticks, quietly pleased with the way you snatch looks at him to copy his form. Slowly, but surely, he’s beginning to understand the way your mind works.

“Have you any interest in looking around Liyue? I’m sure a tour could be organised, if that’s what you wish.” he says to you, once you’ve finished. The food is good, almost as good as the food was at home before things began to go south. 

You want to say no, and to stay within the confines of your new room for as long as you can manage, but the lack of clothing is beginning to worry you. When you don’t immediately reply, Morax tries again.

“Have you everything you need?” He says. “If you aren’t interested in looking around the harbour’s stalls as of now, you can always request what you need from the help, and I’m sure they’d be happy to oblige. The choice is yours.”

You take a bite of your food, and try not to cringe at the sudden spice you taste, trying to calmly take a sip of your wine. 

“Let me finish my dinner before I make that decision,” you say quietly, and Morax simply nods, his eyes narrowing at you slightly. You don’t notice, almost entirely focused on trying to finish the rest of your food without falling apart.

Compared to where you come from, Liyue is loud. Even when you’re deep in the mountains as you are now, the birds and crickets and bugs are louder than they ever were at home, and it makes for a somewhat settling feeling.

“Whilst we’re on the topic of shopping,” You say quietly, ashamed in advance of the words you’re about to say. “It’s not a secret that my nation wasn’t the most prosperous, my existence here is evidence of that—”

“You are here as a guest. Nothing is expected of you in a monetary or emotional aspect unless you are able and willing to provide. Do not worry about things that are unnecessary.”

Your naivety manifests itself in the raucous beating of your chest in response to his words, and you find yourself utterly embarrassed by how easily swayed you are by a basic display of human decency and respected boundaries.

“Alright,” you say quietly. His words have removed him from the centre of your decision and it’s only yourself to consider now. But perhaps that makes the decision harder.

(didn't have enough character left to write what reader says like i usually do sorry lol)

notes: i'm afraid that doing the polls like this will nerf this series even more but its less work for me so :3

i like to pretend that i don't really care about notes and stuff on my posts but for this series specifically the lack of engagement is gagging me lol i've tried so much to get it more out there but ahhh

taglist: @ainescribe @tartigglez

[zweetpea]

Eternity or Stasis part 2 of 2

…

“WOAH WOAH WOAH!! Language! Hehe, Steve… anyway. Previously on… whatever the hell this is!”

“Who are they talking to?” Aether asks

“I, Gen, got shot and ended up here! Then the Raiden Shogun’s army kidnapped me and brought me here!” You wrap your arm around Ei’s shoulders.

“Please stay away from me.”

“Wow! Okay, I see how it is.” You unwrap your arm from around her shoulder. “I thought you were Bae, turns out you’re just Fam. Jk I respect your boundaries.”

Lumine comes up to you. “Gen!” She smacks you. “Pull it together!” She shakes you by your collar.

“Listen listen listen Linda! I appreciate your help mkay, I really do, but you need to take a step back.”

“What is wrong with you?” Aether asks.

“I’m a little meshed up.” You smile.

“We can tell.” Lumine rolls her eyes.

“So uh, what did you guys say your names were? Sorry I’m kinda bad with names.” You ask.

“My name is Sky and this is my sister Light.” Aether smiles and waves.

“…hi.” She rolls her eyes.

“So… good job warding off Dvalin and Osial but I have the Raiden Shogun covered. The talk no jutsu worked. I was just like, you need to fix your attitude and outlook on life and apparently that worked.”

“Well of course. You are the one Celestia fears. There is no doubt in my mind that you are wise.”

“Oh stop Ei! You’re making me blush.” You giggle. “Anyway please let us out. Then take over your puppet and we’ll get to work on fixing your nation.”

“Alright.” Ei opens the rift and the three of you exit. “Everyone! This is the Adored one! The one Celestia fears! Centuries ago the Archons held a meeting in Celestia and we were informed of a prophecy of someone who would take down Celestia and liberate Teyvat! This is that person.” Ei shouted. “Go on. Tell them about how we’re going to fix Inazuma.”

“Me?! Oh uh. Hi everyone! My name is Gen, with a G. I’m gender fluid. So we’re going to be giving back all of the Visions and pardoning everyone on Watatsumi Island.”

After about an hour of diplomatic work you were finally able to walk around the city with the twins and Paimon.

“It’s nice to meet you! Paimon is Paimon. These are the Stardust travelers.”

“It’s nice to meet you Paimon! You are just adorable!”

“Aww. Thank you. Ehehehe!”

“So where do we want to go?” You asked.

“How about we meet up with Ayaka and Thoma?” Aether suggests.

“Sure.” You smile.

You four make your way down to the Yae Publishing House. There stood Thoma, Ayaka, and Ayato actually.

“Thoma! Ayaka! And… who is this?” Paimon cheers.

“Hello travelers! This is my older brother Ayato.”

‘Obilf’ you think.

“And who is this?” He smiled towards you.

“You can call me whatever you like handsome.” You smirk.

“Well how about Gen then.”

“Okay.” You smile sadly. ‘I’m this close to boning Jeht’s dad. I was promise debauchery!’ Grr. Your stomach grumbles. “Heh, sorry I haven’t eaten all day.”

“You poor thing. Come with me, I’ll get you some food.” Ayaka takes your hand. ‘Forget Ayato. Ayaka being wife material right now.”

“Thank you! The beauty of you soul compliments the beauty of your face.” She blushes at your compliment.

Your group makes their way back into the city and you head to the komore tea house.

“Cute! Puppy!” You cheer.

“This is Taromaru.” Thoma introduces.

“Hi sweetie.” He nuzzles into your palm. “This is the greatest day of my life. I’m so happy I might cry!”

Lumine rolls her eyes as Aether chuckles. We all go to sit in one of the rooms and sat at the table. Thoma, Ayaka and Ayato on one side. You and the twins on the other. You sat across from Thoma; Aether sat next to you on your right across from Ayaka; and Lumine sat on the end across from Ayato. Paimon floated beside Lumine. 

The seven of you chatted and ate. “Sky you have to try this!” You held out some food in between your chopsticks.

“Oh sure.” He takes a bite. “That’s really good!”

“I know right!”

“Here you should try some of mine.” He gives you some of his.

“This is so tasty!”

“I’m glad you enjoy our cuisine!” Ayaka cheered.

“I enjoy your face more~ sorry I’m letting the intrusive thoughts win.”

After the meal you and the twins and Paimon left for the wilderness.

“Well I should probably let you guys be for the night.”

“Yeah, good night.” Lumine grimaced.

As you were walking through the mountain side you were ambushed by fatui agents.

 You held out your hand and…

…nothing happened.

“WHAT?!” Your delusion glowed purple. “You motherfu-” a blast of Hydro knocks you unconsciously.

When you wake up you’re bound and gagged. ‘Kinky’ you think, as you stare up at a short man in black and red with violet hair and violet eyes.

“Finally! We meet face to face the one Celestia fears. I only have one thing to say to you.” He grabs you under your chin. “I intend to marry you.”

[c-alliumduo-appologist]

FanFic WIP

it'll be posted on Ao3 when I finish typing out the first chapter B)

Its ZhongChi, haters back up let me enjoy my 'just a dude' x godly being dynamic. So its inspired by Champagne Problems.. now HOLD IT! It's actually NOT angst, kinda. Like minimal, minuscule even.

-----

"In every concept, in every land, in all the thousands of years I have lived, I never could have predicted how perfect you'd mend my life to be. My Ajax."

        Tartaglia woke with a start, it wasn't a nightmare, those have (oddly enough) been lesser these days. No, instead it was a dream of Zhongli, naked, on Childes chest, whispering those sweet nothings. A memory. "I need a shower." As he rose from his bed, his blanket had knocked a box from his nightstand. "Fuck!", he had managed to catch said box before it hit the ground. It was black with gold Liyuen lettering on the side, which Childe could not read. On the side there was a note sticking out, he grabbed it and it read, 

"Dearest Ajax,         I had seen this set when walking my rounds of the harbor while you were away for the week in Fontaine, and though the time apart was mere days, and such a small part in my life, somehow, I deeply missed you. It had occurred to me when I was speaking with Miss Xangling, out of habit she had prepared your meal as well. Though I could not partake, (you know how I detest seafood) I found the sight of it across from me without your presence.. Depressing to say the least. I could vividly imagine you fumbling with your chopsticks, my idle chatter and your ringing laughter in my ears like golden bells. If this was how I felt without your presence for a simple week. I could never be sure how I'd be once you’d head home for more than months at a time. I want to be with you wherever you go, I find the thought of anything else detestable. Miserable.          I hope you might be able to deduce the meaning without my interjecting, but I'll never turn down explaining my Nations culture to you over dinner. Let's meet at Wanmin tonight. ~Zhongli"

        Childe wasn't sure when Zhongli had placed this in his room, he hadn't noticed it the night before. Though he had returned very injured and exhausted, it's not impossible that he had simply missed it. He flips open the lid, a dense wood, and inside rests two chopsticks, carved and painted with a dragon and phoenix respectively, ends almost dipped in gold. When he picked them up he felt the heft. These were definitely expensive.. extremely shocking with Zhonglis salary. Childe smiles to himself, something he never believed he'd grow used to.

        “Wherever I go, hm? Maybe he wants to meet my family.. He never did get the chance to meet Teucer while he was here.” His face scrunched, “but.. I swear I remember him mentioning something about Dragons and Phoenixes.” He carefully set the set on the bay by his window, and glanced at the clock. 5 am, he's usually up earlier but it's fine, ”All right then, bath time.”

        As the hot water starts running, Tartaglia adds a few bottles Baizhu had recommended, some helped muscle pain, others healed scars, one for joints and the last two helped with the Abyssal stain. Not that it did much. He removes his nightshirt ready for about a half hour of relief, and hears a knock at the door. It was a faint sound over the rushing water, he turned to walk out and answer it. As he approaches he hears the pitters and taps of rainfall, who could've been at his door, this early, in such awful weather. Just one man.

        He opens the door to a bleary, red-eyed, rain-soaked, Zhongli. Every other thought leaves him, as the God stares at him in a despondent haze. Disbelief? Childe wastes no time pulling Zhongli in by his hand into the house. "What's going on?" He only shakes his head, "I.. am not sure. It was only a dream, yet- of a memory. It had felt so wrong. I only felt regret." Zhongli takes firm hold on Childes hand pulling it to his chest, "I could only think to come to you like this. I apologize if I woke you."

        Childe can feel the artificial heart beat in Zhonglis chest, curated for the Harbingers peace of mind. He remembered the first night they had spent together, tracing his hand along the Gods chest, sculpted from eons of life that Childe would never hear every story of. Feeling the coldness of his body and the distinct lack of movement when he had laid his head. He'd felt his own nearly stop. Since then Zhongli had forced one to be, he promised it was hardly a hassle to him, and Childe had smiled when he felt it for the first time. 

        Yet as Childe felt it this time, it was elevated, and he was brought back to the present, "Nonsense, I've been up for a while now. Let me go turn the water off. Here, sit. I'll be right back, promise." Zhongli nodded as he sat in the small living room. Childe smiled that same smile at him, resting a hand on his shoulder before walking away. 

        As he closed the door to the bathroom, he leaned against the wall sliding down to the floor, head in his hands. “What the actual hell..” Zhongli.. Had he been crying? What could have been in that dream- memory, that had shaken him so. Childe stands turning the water off, and throws in some Pyro Bath Warmers, a gadget he picked up while in Fontaine. “Well.. that'll keep it good for an hour or so.. I’d rather not waste all that medicine.”

        He took a long breath, and pulled the door back open to see Zhongli with his hands in his lap looking down, it wasn't unlike the night he had told him the truth.. Who he was. In truth, Tartaglia had figured it out pretty quickly, but the God had been so distressed in lying to Childe for as long as he did. So he had played along to his and the Tsaritsas plan, after all it was not his place. 

        Sorry Zhongli, I had only just started to get ready for today. Now…” he took a seat at the other man's side, “What happened?” Childe felt Zhongli sink into his side, “I'm sorry to have worried you so, like I said before, it was only a nightmare- well a nightmare of a distant memory.” at this Childe frowns, “You know better than anyone how bad mine get, can you tell me what it's about?” Zhongli looks down and sighs, “I am unfortunately bound by contract.” Childe nods, this happens a decent amount, the god of contracts is forced to keep many secrets even for those who are long gone. “No loophole or anything?” He shakes his head, “Unfortunately no, but- being here with you is enough, I’m quite capable of working out how I feel. I simply.. Needed company. ”  His hand slid to Childe’s thigh, “Take that as you will..” 

        Ajax managed to feel warmth from the stone cold hands of the Geo god, his face flushed, and a chill chased his spine. Both relief and disappointment washed over him and Zhongli moved his hand to sit in Childe’s own. “Though, there is something I’d like to discuss while I’m here..”

----

BOOM THATS ALL YOU GET!!!!

its about half of the first chapter, I've been writing it in my free time in classes. Somethings never change from middle school....

[rabbitcruiser]

National Chopsticks Day

Take part in an ancient tradition that has been around for thousands of years in the Asian culture by eating with and enjoying the unique experience of chopsticks.

National Chopsticks Day appears as a fun and fascinating reason to show appreciation for this little pair of utensils. So put down that fork, set aside that knife, and pick up these two little sticks that can usher in a whole new experience! 

History of National Chopsticks Day

Getting their start at least 3000 years ago or more, chopsticks originated in China and were first used as utensils in the process of cooking. With ancient roots, these convenient tools began to be used as a tool for individuals to eat noodles, rice, meat, vegetables and much more, probably around 400 BC. This was likely a time when resources became scarce and the food needed to be chopped into small bits to cook faster and save on fuel.

In the end, there was a need for some sort of tool to help with eating, and it was obviously a much-needed innovation because the tool began to spread. Chopsticks made their way from China into other Asian countries, like Korea, Japan, Vietnam and many others.

Originally made from bamboo, chopsticks have since been made from all sorts of traditional substances, including different types of wood, metal, ivory and ceramics. Of course, more recently, chopsticks have been made from plastics, resin, stainless steel and even titanium. In addition, chopsticks have been valued and appreciated for their beauty, particularly when they have been decorated with precious substances or painted with unique artwork.

By 1878, the disposable bamboo chopstick was designed by the Japanese, called “waribashi”. Many people don’t realize that the average person in China has typically used up to 200 sets of disposable chopsticks every year.

To minimize the use of disposable chopsticks and save the earth along the way, the Chinese government imposed a tax on chopsticks in April 2006. The tax of 5% was not only for those in China, but also spread from there into the places where the China chopstick makers export to, such as Japan or Korea.

Now, National Chopsticks Day is here to pay honor and respect to the longstanding, ancient tradition of using chopsticks as a cooking and eating utensil!

National Chopsticks Day Timeline

1700-1200 BC

Chinese people begin using chopsticks

Originally used in the cooking process, chopsticks function more like tongs in these early days.

400 AD

Other utensils are invented

Forks, spoons and knives begin common use as eating utensils.

500 AD

Chopsticks make their way to Japan

Making a stop in Korea first, chopsticks travel from China to Kyoto at the east end of the Silk Road.

1878

Disposable chopsticks gain use

In Japan, disposable bamboo chopsticks are created.

2006

China imposes a chopstick tax

To reduce wasting natural resources, China institutes a 5% tax on disposable chopsticks, which also had an impact on chopsticks exported to Japan.

How to Celebrate National Chopsticks Day

Take eating to the next level by enjoying National Chopsticks Day! Get excited about celebrating the day by implementing some of these special ideas:

Learn More About Using Chopsticks

While many Westerners are more used to using a fork and knife, one delightful activity for National Chopsticks Day might be to learn how to use chopsticks. For many people, it can require a bit of practice while the motor memory is retained.

Not only is learning how to use chopsticks an important cultural activity, it also could have other benefits. These benefits can include improving hand-eye coordination, teaching finger isolation and manipulation, strengthening the hand muscles, and improving fine motor skills. Some people even believe that using chopsticks can make the memory even better!

While considering chopsticks, consider some of this etiquette around the utensils: 

In Japan, it is rude to cross the chopsticks on the table or to stick the chopsticks vertically in a pile of rice.

In Taiwan, it’s poor etiquette to let chopsticks linger in the mouth or to bite on them.

The Chinese consider it to be poor form to spear the food with chopsticks or to tap the chopsticks on the bowl.

In Korea, it is rude to pick up chopsticks or other utensils before the elders at the table do.

Eat with Chopsticks

While chopsticks could certainly be tried with almost any kind of food (though perhaps a burger or a slice of pizza might be complicated), they are best when used to eat food that hails from Asia. Delicious food that is Japanese, Chinese, Korean or Vietnamese can all be appreciated when eaten with chopsticks.

Enjoy Some Fun Facts About Chopsticks

In honor and celebration of National Chopsticks Day, this is the time to increase that knowledge about these interesting little sticks. After learning some facts, go ahead and share some of them with friends or family members to raise awareness in honor of the day! Try out some of these fun facts and bits of trivia to get started:

Chopsticks are different in different countries. For instance, the chopsticks found in China are longer than those in other Asian countries, with wide tapered ends that make them slightly easier to use. Chopsticks in Korea have more of a flat shape, and those from Vietnam have an end that is more blunt.

Some people actually have an irrational fear of chopsticks! The name of this disorder is Consecotaleophobia and has been included in the field of psychiatry.

In the past, silver chopsticks were used by royal families in China to check for poison. Because certain poisons would cause the silver chopsticks to turn black, giving a forewarning of danger. Since then, silver chopsticks have been a sign of wealth, affluence and style.

Chopsticks have superstitions associated with them. As an intricate part of the Asian culture, some omens go along with the use of chopsticks. For instance, holding chopsticks completely upright is a bad omen. Also, dropping chopsticks is a sign of bad luck.

Purchase Some Fancy Chopsticks

One lovely way to celebrate National Chopsticks Day might be to make an investment in a new set (or several) of higher end chopsticks. Chopsticks can be made out of bamboo or other woods and then decorated in a variety of ways.

For instance, try out a set that is made from rosewood and then decorated with gold tips. Try some pairs made with lacquer that can then be personalized with the names of everyone in the family. Or, those who are very serious about celebrating the day might be interested in pure, solid silver chopsticks that are handcrafted and decorated with Chinese calligraphy. 

National Chopsticks Day FAQs

How do you use chopsticks?

Hold the chopsticks loosely at a slight angle from each other. The chopstick held by the thumb can stay stable while the other one is moved back and forth with the fingers.

What country did chopsticks come from?

Chopsticks likely originated in China around 1200 BC or even earlier.

Did chopsticks come before forks?

Yes. Forks and spoons were not invented until 400 AD.

Do chopsticks make you eat less?

People who eat with chopsticks may eat more slowly, which causes them to get fuller faster and eat less food.

Are chopsticks reusable?

Most quality chopsticks are made to be used, washed and used again for years, though some chopsticks are made of bamboo and are considered to be ‘disposable’.

Source

[weixuldo]

Enigma// ch 13

anakin x reader

a/n: sorry for the wait!!! i started a summer job and i’ve been hellllllaaaa busy lol- dw tho, im still writing!!

You have a relaxing dinner with Ahsoka until the end of the year approaches

warnings: cursing, cannon disabled character, insecurity, mention of periods, possible pregnancy mention,

_______________________________

More time passed and you prepped for finals; luckily this year you were able to exempt most of your sit in exams and instead only had one big project and a 20 page thesis due. 

You had been feeling nauseous for the past few days but the 20 page paper’s deadline was looming over you, so it was probably the stress from that. You also hadn’t had much time to eat, so you could also just be hungry. 

You ignored the feeling and went back to typing.

The paper was almost done, only two more pages then you were free for the weekend.. Just two more.

Ring Ring

Ahsoka was calling, you finished the sentence you were on before picking up the phone.

“Hey”

Hey hey! Are you busy tonight?

“I should be free after one more page of this thing”

Damn! Congrats! You've been at that shit since mid terms! I think that deserves celebration!

You laughed, hopefully she wasn’t proposing a party because you weren't quite feeling up to that.

“What do you have in mind?”

I dunno… wanna  just grab take out and eat it by the koi pond? I kinda just want a chill night before I have to start practice for nationals. 

“That sounds wonderful”

Cool! I'll see you at 6:30?

“Sounds good to me!”

Oki bye bye!

The end of the line clicked as she hung up and a small smile settled onto your face; even though you hadn’t known Ahsoka that long, the two of you just clicked and were almost always on the same wavelength.

Some of you wanted to tell her about Anakin, but you just felt like at this point it would add drama to the already stressful end of the year. 

You were seen as the baby of the friend group, so you wouldn’t know how they would feel if you and Anakin officially confirmed the relationship…Also Ahsoka could be a little dramatic at times and you were afraid she would become too involved and make jokes or treat you and Ani differently.

And you had known Anakin long enough to know that those small changes would piss him off and he might accidentally take it out on the relationship.

You got back to your computer when you got a really bad cramp in your abdomen. 

Oh fuck, you hadn’t gotten your period on its normal week so apparently its deciding to come now…great, something else to add to your delightful week.

You finally finished your paper and let out a long groan as you stretched your back. You grabbed your keys and headed down to meet Ahsoka outside the dorms. Once the two of you met up and got your food, you walked to the koi pond on the northern side of campus. 

The sun was setting and the sky was a mixture of beautiful oranges and pinks; you took a seat on the iron bench that overlooked the gardens surrounding the koi pond. 

“This is so nice, I needed to chill,” Ahsoka said, breaking apart the cheap wooden chopsticks that came with her bento box. 

“Yea, I feel ya” you said opening the box of lo mein you ordered. 

“Ya know, I cant believe i’m gonna be graduating in just a few weeks… Like what the actual fuck, I swear I was just a freshman like two weeks ago” Ahsoka baffled as she watched the fish swim laps around the pond. 

“Oh yea, I wanted to get a brunch with all of us next sunday before I have to go to nationals, would you be able to come?” she added.

“Yes! I’d love to” you responded, before remembering that would be one of the last times you would see her before her graduation. 

“I’m going to miss you so much Ahsoka” you said sadly, “Will you keep in touch?”

“Does a fish need water? Of course y/n!” she smiled; “you’re my best girl friend; sure sky guy and Ben are nice, but they're not another girl. And I like Satine alot, but she's older and in a totally different place in life than us, ya know?” 

“Yea, I’m glad we met too” you smiled. 

You conversed over random topics and future plans-

“Do you think you’ll party a lot next year?” she asked you

“Hmm, I don’t think so” 

“Why not? Don’t you wanna find a partner or atleast a hook-up?” She asked, biting down on her last California roll.

“I’m actually pretty content, I think most of my party phase was exhausted freshman and sophomore year” 

“Yea, I get it, I really only kept going out cause the team likes to go to the big parties. Kinda changing topics though, are you interested in anyone this year?”

You froze for a split second before bringing the noodles to your mouth, “Not really, I mean I’ve been seeing this guy off campus, but I wanna keep it on the dl and so does he” you responded (you didn’t have the heart to completely lie to her).

“Ooo, is he cute? How old is he? What's his name? Does he have socials? I gotta make sure he’s good enough for my girl”

“Hah, that's a lot. Umm, I think he's cute, he doesn’t use social media much, and he’s just a bit older” (yeah right, more like twice your age).

“Ok….what's his name?” she asked again, a devious grin on her face.

You smiled and looked away, “Ahsoka, I love you, but I can't tell you, I promised him we’d keep it under wraps… He’s a very private person” 

“Do I know him?” she definitely was gonna guess it if she kept at the questions.

You took all the power you could to construct a final lie, “no, I met him on a dating app”.

“Oh, never mind I guess, I’m happy for you!”

Phew.

You were not practiced in lying.

“Thanks, I really like him… I think I may be in love…I’ve never felt this way before” you smiled. 

“That’s amazing, y/n. Will I meet him some day?”

“Of course” 

The rest of dinner was pleasant, until your stomach started hurting again.

“What’s wrong?” 

“Nothing, I think I'm just gonna get my period soon” you said.

“Wait, shouldn’t you have gotten it like two weeks ago?”

Huh?

“Yea, remember, we’re kind of synced, You’ve been starting yours half way through my cycle since like September”

“Oh, I think it's just late from the stress”

“Hopefully so” she laughed, “Wouldn’t want that mystery man to have knocked you up”. 

She was joking, but something in you became worried… it had been a long time since your last period… and you and Anakin had been pretty busy…but wait

Anakin couldn’t have kids. 

The doctors said so.

But what if…

You shook the thoughts from your head and asked Ahsoka if she would come with you to the drug store to pick up some tums for the stomach ache.

She went off to go look at the shampoo because she needed some more and you sneaked off to grab a pregnancy test.

While you were in line you decided to update your boyfriend on the night’s conversation

“Hey babe, just fyi Ahsoka was asking about who i was seeing so i lied and said a guy from tinder, just wanted to lyk”

In no time your phone buzzed

Alright, thanks for covering, have a good night princess.

“Goodnight my love��

___________________________________

The week went by and you only had the project to finish. Most of your academic stress was subsided, but your personal stress grew by the day.

You hadn't opened the pregnancy test you got last week… you couldn’t bring yourself to.

or

Maybe it was because you hadn't had time…

oh who were you kidding? 

You were scared. 

But if you were pregnant, you should probably find out soon. Right?

Right.

You went into the bathroom and locked the door.

This was it.

The moment of truth.

***

a/n: so this ch was more of a filler to get to the next few chapters…. the plot is thickening and i hope your interest stays!! ty again for reading :)

taglist: : @dnamht @sxoulohvn @angeelcoree @wtf-andys @httpeachesblog @katsukiswrld @jetiikote @poisonedsultana

[aughby]

Unbroken Bond

Mayu Ishikawa and Yuki have always had a unique relationship. When they were younger, they were best friends and would spend their days playing volleyball in their backyard while harboring dreams of competing for Japan internationally. Mayu's keen intuition and Yuki's limitless energy made them the ideal brother and sister, closest friends, and collaborators in everything.

As they grew older, different paths started to take them. Due to his obvious talent, Yuki was rapidly being scouted by prestigious volleyball academies. Mayu, who possessed equal skill, chose her own route and joined the women's national team. Their careers took off together, but they hardly saw one another because of the demands of training, international matches, and travel. When they did, there was an uncomfortable distancing in place of the relaxed friendship of their early years. The years had altered them, yet they were still close and family.

Following a protracted period of competitions and training camps, they both found themselves back in their hometown of small town life one winter's evening. Their mother insisted on a family dinner, even though it was the first time they had both been free in months.

They sat across from one another at the table, and the air was heavy with the shared memories and unsaid words. As Yuki played with his chopsticks, he cast a sidelong glance at Mayu, who was staring at her dish of rice.

Yuki broke the ice by asking, "So, how's the team?"

Mayu looked up, taken aback by the query. "Good. We're working on some new plays for the Olympics. How about you?"

"I saw your last game. You were incredible out there." He paused before continuing, "Same. Training's intense, but it's worth it."

With a trace of the old Mayu showing through, she grinned. "Thanks. I caught some of your highlights too. You're really carrying the team."

As they conversed further, the years of awkwardness gradually started to fade. They told each other stories about their teammates, giggled over old games, and even made jokes like they used to.

As the evening drew on, they discovered themselves wandering about their town's well-known streets in the bitter cold. The air was fresh, and the stars were brilliant.

Yuki paused to gaze up at the sky and murmured gently, "Do you ever miss how things were?"

"All the time," said Mayu. "But we're still here, right? We've got each other, even if it's not like it used to be."

Yuki nodded, his chest suddenly warm in a way it hadn't felt in years. "Yeah, we do."

For a while, they stood side by side, aware that it would be months before they saw each other again but also aware that their tie, despite its differences, remained unbroken.

Mayu said, "Let's not wait so long next time," as they started to return home.

Yuki said, "Deal," feeling happier than he had in a long time.

They felt like the siblings they once were—and still are, in the most important ways—as they walked home together for the first time in years.

Yuki and Mayu went for a walk and then came home to find their mother had made a warm space by the fireplace and hot tea ready for them. As they settled in, they relished the warmth and the infrequent window of quiet.

Mayu winced a little when she reached for her cup during their conversation. Yuki noticed right away.

"What's wrong?" His voice was filled with anxiety as he asked.

In response, Mayu dismissed it with "It's nothing. Just a slight discomfort from practice. I made a strange landing during a dive."

Yuki was not persuaded. He leaned forward and insisted, "Let me see."

Mayu extended her wrist while rolling her eyes. A slight swelling was there, not too severe but noticeable enough to be uncomfortable.

Yuki took her hand gently and gave it a close inspection. "You need to have spoken up sooner. Have you been keeping this a secret all along?"

Despite her appreciation for his concern, Mayu responded, "It's really not a big deal."

"Not very important?" Yuki gave a headshake. "Mayu, you need to look after yourself. You cannot choose to disregard these issues."

He got up and walked to the kitchen, coming back holding a bandage and a tiny ice pack. He delicately and precisely wrapped it around her wrist, resembling the times they were children, and he used to heal her cuts from hard play.

"Do you recall doing this following our outdoor games?" Mayu inquired, a tiny smile teasing her lips.

Naturally, Yuki responded, wrapping things up. "You were always so obstinate, never wanting to acknowledge your own pain."

With a cheeky sparkle in her eyes, she responded, "I guess some things never change."

Yuki laughed, but as he glanced at her, his expression softened. "Mayu, I understand that you're both quite busy and that our time together isn't always as uninterrupted as it once was. But remember, I'm always available to you. Whatever the case may be."

Mayu turned to face him as his words warmed her heart. "Yu-kun, I am aware. I'm also always available to you. Even though we've matured, you're still my big brother. I'm still your little sister, too".

Even if they had become more apart in several aspects, Yuki's smile belied the love and concern that had always been in his eyes. "So let's make sure we don't lose sight of that,"

For a time, they sat in cozy stillness as Mayu rested her head on Yuki's shoulder and felt his steady breathing. These insignificant moments were when she realized how much she had missed him—not just as her best friend but also as a brother.

Mayu's eyes grew droopy as the night went on. Yuki saw and gave her a small poke. "You ought to get some sleep. Tomorrow, we'll chat more."

"Yes," she muttered as she slowly stood up. However, she stopped and turned to face Yuki before leaving. "I appreciate you being here, Yu-kun. I truly did miss you."

With the gentle warmth that only a sibling could provide, Yuki smiled. "I also missed you, Mayu. Go to bed now. There is a lot for us to catch up on."

Yuki watched her go upstairs, a sense of protection building inside his chest. He was aware of how busy their lives were and how frequently their paths diverged. However, tonight served as a reminder to him of what was really important: their relationship, their concern for one another, and the unwritten assurance that they would always find a way to return to one another no matter where life led them.

[y3joon-png]

1950-1953 : The Rifle Between Us

Heyaa it's me again !! There is chapter III, this one is more psychological and deep dives into how our two mains deeply feel. I hop eyou will enjoy it as much as you enjoyed the others until now !! Kiss kiss <3

Chapter III

June 1950 - September 1950 - Republic of Korea

Minho woke before the sun. The camp was silent, save for the occasional rustle of movement. A cold sweat clung to his skin. He exhaled, trying to shake the weight pressing against his chest. He had dreamed of something. Or someone. But the details slipped through his fingers like water. He rolled his shoulders, stretching out the stiffness in his arms. His skin felt tight, too hot under the weight of his uniform. He exhaled sharply and reached for his rifle. The mirror in the corner was cracked, but it still caught his reflection. Minho stared. He looked like a soldier. A man. He was supposed to feel like one too. He sighed loudly not knowing what to do, he felt lost. It was just a dream. But then why was his skin still crawling? The others were still asleep, their breaths deep and steady. Minho looked at his hands, flexing them against the morning chill. They had pulled a trigger yesterday. The day before that. The week before that. That’s all that mattered. He exhaled, forcing the thought away. The war was progressing. That’s what he needed to focus on.

In the last few months, the North Korean troops had been gaining territory over the Southern army. Minho got to see Seoul for the first time, it was pretty empty as it had been evacuated a day before but still, he was happy to be there. They were winning. That was enough. The United Nations had started sending soldiers, mostly Americans, since July. The fights were rough but the North Korean didn’t give up and kept going further south. Minho was proud, extremely, he felt like a hero. For his unit, for his people, for his country and for Kim Il Sung. September soon came, he was in a camp near Incheon because his unit had been chosen to stay close to the port, mostly to secure the west part of the border.

The others stirred awake one by one, stretching, groaning, scratching at their skin in the morning light. Someone muttered something about a dream, another laughed about last night’s drinks. Minho sat up, rolling his shoulders. He should say something. Blend in.

“You sleep like a pig, Jihoon,” he muttered. It was met with laughter. But his voice sounded strange in his own ears. Jihoon groaned and threw his rigid pillow at Minho.

“Shut up dude.” He added with a chuckle.

Thirty minutes later, they were all around the long tables eating their breakfast. Most were talking and cheering. The atmosphere was pretty light since the U.N. counterattack was being handled perfectly by their troops. Minho was silently eating some rice, listening to the other men talking and joking around.

“Man, after this war, I’m going straight to the prettiest girl in Pyongyang,” Jihoon said, grinning. “Gonna get married and fuck until we have ten kids.” The others laughed, chiming in with their own plans - women, sex, power, glory. Minho nodded along, even forced a smirk. Someone nudged him.

“What about you, Minho?” He opened his mouth - froze. What was he supposed to say?

“Dunno,” he muttered, shrugging. “Haven’t thought about it.”

“Bullshit,” Jihoon snorted. “Come on, man, you really don’t have a girl waiting for you back home?” The others watched him, waiting. Minho’s throat felt tight.

“I… guess I do.” The lie felt foreign in his mouth, like gravel. “She’s just not important right now.” Jihoon laughed. Minho was silently staring at his rice. His throat was dry, his fingers pressing around his chopsticks felt like they were slightly shaking. But a man couldn’t shake. Real men aren’t scared. 

“Always so damn serious.” The conversation moved on. Minho exhaled slowly.

He stayed quiet for almost the whole day. Minho wasn’t a man known to be talkative, he often smiled at jokes but his real loud laugh was almost a myth in his unit. During the physical training he was quietly - as always - punching a punching bag. His tank top clung to his pretty muscular body. His necklace was hitting his sweaty skin to the rhythm of his punches. The sound was metallic and slightly wet. The whole room smelled like sweat.

The fire crackled, shadows stretching against the dirt walls. Minho kept punching, watching as Jihoon stretched out on the ground, arms folded behind his head. Relaxed. Confident. The way Jihoon carried himself, the ease in his movements - it was something Minho had never felt. His jaw tightened. “I hate him”. He thought suddenly, though he knew it wasn’t true. He looked away, stomach coiled in something he didn’t have the words for. The room almost felt like testosterone. Minho looked down at himself. He felt like something was lacking. He looked like them, yes. But he didn’t feel like them. The sound of his fists against the bag quickened, the metallic clink of his necklace keeping pace. His muscles burned, but he didn’t stop. Didn’t want to stop.

Jihoon put his hand on Minho’s shoulder, squeezing softly and grinning.

“You’re too stiff, man. Relax.” Minho tensed. It was just advice. It was nothing bad. Then why did his skin crawl? He shoved Jihoon off, scowling.

“Get off me.” Jihoon blinked, laughing.

“Damn, alright.” Minho exhaled sharply, forcing himself to laugh too. He didn’t know why he was suddenly so angry. Jihoon smirked. The way he stood, the confidence in his posture - it made something burn in Minho’s stomach. He forced himself to look away. He needed to get stronger. He needed to be better. Jihoon then headed to the others, laughing as he threw his towel over his shoulder. Minho, him, kept punching harder, faster, wilder. His breath was getting heavier. However he couldn’t even dare to stop, he had to be a real man.

At the corner of the room, the others were laughing, joking crudely about women. Minho forced himself to grin, nodding along even though their words felt empty in his mouth. He acted along while still punching. He tried hard, imagining a woman’s body. Nothing. What was he missing? He sighed loudly. He gave a punch, then another. He imagined again, his hands roaming over a body. He squeezed his fists, forcing the image to stay. But it didn’t feel right. It felt… off. Wrong. His breath came out sharp. He punched the bag again, harder. The skin was soft under his fingers. He exhaled louder. The face was blurred. He looked around in his mind. The whole body was blurred, all he could feel was his fingers against the skin. He could feel curves, they didn’t feel any like they should feel. He hissed, his jaw clenching. Then, Jihoon asked him teasingly.

“What, Minho? Never had a girl moan your name?” Minho scoffed.

“Plenty.” A lie. A lie so easy, it almost sounded true. Jihoon laughed, satisfied, and Minho swallowed down the bitterness rising in his throat.

Minho kept punching. Harder. Faster. His breath came in ragged bursts, his body slick with sweat, his arms aching from the force of every hit. But it wasn’t enough. It would never be enough. He needed to train harder, to be stronger, to be a real man, because something inside him was lacking, something was wrong, and he didn’t know what. His mind kept circling back to the same thoughts, the same feelings, the same twisting unease that settled deep in his stomach like a sickness. Jihoon’s voice. Jihoon’s hands. Jihoon’s laugh. He forced himself to think of women, forced himself to picture a faceless body beneath him, forced himself to feel what the others felt - but his mind wouldn’t stay there. It never did. He wanted this to stop. He wanted to rip himself apart and put himself back together the right way. The way a soldier should be. The way a man should be. But no matter how much he trained, no matter how much he tried, the thoughts always came back, creeping in the moment he let his guard down. Minho exhaled sharply and leaned his forehead against the cool surface of the punching bag, his breath shaky. He squeezed his eyes shut. Just for a second. Just long enough to let himself breathe. Just long enough to feel the weight of something he would never say. And then, with a final punch, he turned away. As the sun was setting outside he headed to his dorm. There, he made himself fall heavily against the rigid mattress that was his. He looked around, he was alone. His loud sigh echoed in the room. The echo almost felt like a blame from the walls of the dorm towards him. He shut his eyes and sank his face in his rigid pillow. His biceps hurted. His sharp facial traits felt like they were trying to cut through the thin fabric of the pillow. He brushed his hair with a single hand, softly turning on his back. He stared at the ceiling. Here, a crack was wide and visible, leaving a gap. His throat tightened. What was lacking from him to be a real man? Was it the fact he had never fucked a woman? Should he force himself onto one to be a man like the others? He sighed loudly, laying his forearm on his eyes, blocking the dim light from bothering them. Suddenly, a thought lingered in his mind : “I wish Jisung was here. He’d know what to do. He’d tell me I'm the manliest man.” Minho swallowed, his throat tightening. The thought sat heavy in his chest as his eyes started to feel itchy. It was warm. Too warm. He exhaled sharply, forcing himself to scoff. “Real men don’t need help from some Southern Pigs”. He told himself, before turning around and drifting to sleep. His body was tense, all of his muscles were contracted. Sleep didn’t come as fast as he hoped. But he dealt with it, like a real man should. 

September 1950 - Republic of Korea

Jisung woke with a start, breath shallow, skin damp with sweat. He didn’t remember the dream clearly - only flashes. A voice, laughter, a hand lingering too long. A feeling, warm and unshakable. His stomach twisted. He exhaled sharply and turned onto his side, pressing his palm over his chest. His heartbeat was steady, but everything else felt wrong. His vision was slightly blurry as he tried to come back to his senses. He looked back at the ceiling and sighed loudly. His mind kept wandering back to his dream, trying to figure out from where was that off feeling he felt. Jisung exhaled softly, closing his eyes. He gets softly back to his dream, redrawing everything in his now awakened mind. His hand felt warmer, he looked up. Someone was holding it. Strong built, sharp features, shiny eyes. He could distinguish some features but not a particular person. Suddenly he realized : it was a man. Jisung’s eyes opened widely and he sat up abruptly. “Not again”. He thought, rubbing his eyes with his palms. A voice raised next to him.

“Jisung-Hyung… are you alright?” It was Hajoon. Jisung smiled awkwardly and nodded. “Overthinking again?” Jisung forced a smile.

“Someone has to.” Hajoon rolled his eyes and leaned back against the headboard of his bed. The air between them was too warm, too easy. Jisung swallowed, looking away. He wasn’t thinking too much. He was thinking the wrong way. He looked down at himself. His used white tank top clinging to his - now - pretty muscular build. He looked at his dog tag, holding the cold metal between his fingers. “Real men don’t feel like this.” His jaw clenched. His body was strong now. But inside, he felt smaller than ever. He wasn’t praying - not really. But his lips moved like they used to when his mother taught him to whisper to God. “Please…” He mouthed, his jaw clenching too tight to let out any word. He swallowed. He didn’t know what he was asking for. Forgiveness? Probably. He was guilty after all. A whole sinner, hiding himself behind his soldier image to seem perfect. Jisung exhaled loudly again before getting up. He quickly put some pants around his hips and his boots. Hajoon looked at him a bit confused, raising an eyebrow as he asked : 

“What are you doing? Breakfast won’t be served anytime soon.” Jisung sighed and took a small book from his military bag. On the dark cover, two words were written in golden capital letters : “HOLY BIBLE”.

“Morning prayer.” Jisung added. Hajoon nodded, he seemed skeptical. However, he did not add anything and just let Jisung walk out of their dorms.

For a few days, Jisung and his unit were living there. A huge camp in Busan, with other soldiers from almost everywhere around the world. Most were Americans, but some were British, Australian or even French. As he was walking in the corridors towards the small chapel - holding tight onto his Bible - he overheard some Amricans evoking an offensive on Incheon’s port, probably in mid-september. He swallowed. Everything always had to be about this stupid war. He chuckled as he thought : “Mid-september uh? Maybe I'll live until my 20th birthday then.” His thoughts had been growing more and more pessimistic as the war kept going. After all, they were losing. He soon got to the chapel. There he sat on the ridiculously small bench, in front of the cross. He grabbed his necklace and wrapped it around his fists as he joined his hands. It wasn’t a chaplet, but it was better than nothing. Jisung sat alone, head bowed, dog tags curled tight in his fist. The words of old prayers sat on his tongue, but they felt heavier now. Like they didn’t belong to him anymore. “God, forgive me for I have sinned”. But for what? He already knew. And knowing made it worse. Maybe this war was meant to fix him. Maybe if he fought hard enough, he could prove himself as a child of God. “I’ve thought about it again.” He exhaled. God knew already, why tell him? Suddenly a question came to his mind. A question only God could answer. The silence stretched. The air felt too thick in his lungs. His fingers tightened around the dog tags until the edges pressed into his skin. Jisung curled, his joint hands being crushed between his knees and strong chest. Tears started running down his cheeks as he mumbled quietly, almost ashamed.

“God… tell me, why did You make me like this?” Jisung took a deep breath, coughing softly due to his loud sobbing. “If what I feel is a sin. Did You want me to be a sinner? Don’t I deserve Your love as much as the other men do?”

Jisung exhaled sharply and pressed the heels of his palms against his eyes. The tears had stopped, but the weight in his chest hadn’t lifted. He looked back at the cross, waiting. For what, he didn’t know. A sign? A feeling? A voice? Nothing. Only silence. He rubbed his eyes softly, evacuating the remaining tears. He frowned, staring at Jesus on the cross. He sharply got up and spat under his breath : 

“I hope you enjoyed ascending twice by stealing mine.” He then silently put back his dog tag around his neck, hiding the small piece of metal under the collar of his tank top. He grabbed back his Bible and came out of the room. Drained, unrelieved, and almost mad. His boots echoed against the wooden floor as he stepped outside. The air was thick, humid, pressing against his skin. He barely noticed. Somewhere nearby, soldiers laughed, talking about nothing important. It felt like a different world. Jisung ran a hand through his hair, forcing a deep breath. His fingers were still trembling. As he got back to the dorm, the room was empty. He walked silently to his bag and shoved the book in it.

“You’re gonna wear that thing out,” Hajoon’s voice pulled Jisung from his thoughts. When did he even get here? Jisung had swore he was alone a few seconds ago. He looked up to see Hajoon leaning lazily against a post, nodding toward the Bible in Jisung’s grip. Jisung forced a small smile.

“Maybe I should.” Hajoon raised an eyebrow.

“That bad, huh?” Jisung’s jaw clenched. His mind was telling him to throw Hajoon away as much as his heart was telling him to let him in.

“It’s nothing.” Hajoon hummed, unconvinced.

“You ever wonder if God actually listens to all this?” Jisung stiffened. His fingers curled tighter around the book.

“Of course He does.” Hajoon shrugged.

“Maybe. But if He does, He sure stays quiet a lot.” Jisung exhaled louder. Hajoon sighed, looking down as if he was thinking deeply. Then, his hand softly reached Jisung’s shoulder and he smiled softly. “Maybe you should talk to someone who would answer.” Jisung immediately understood the undertone, his eyes widening.

“I don’t need anything from you.” Jisung added but he was soon cut off.

“Jisung-Hyung, your eyes are red.” Hajoon said with a soft, warm and caring smile. Jisung felt his heart disgustingly flutter. “We’re alone here, let’s talk.” His hand on Jisung’s shoulder went down, making them both take a seat on the rigid mattress. Jisung swallowed, his throat dry as Hajoon’s hand lingered a second too long before slipping away. The warmth didn’t leave with it. That was the problem. He sat stiffly, fingers curling against the rough fabric of his pants. The cot creaked under their weight, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. Hajoon was watching him, Jisung could feel it.

“I’m fine,” Jisung muttered, eyes fixed on the floor.

“You don’t look fine.” Jisung’s jaw clenched. Of course he didn’t. He’d spent the last half-hour crying like a damn child in front of God Himself, and now Hajoon was here, too close, too patient, too something Jisung didn’t want to name. He exhaled sharply, shifting slightly to put more space between them.

“I don’t need anyone worrying about me. Just focus on staying alive.” Hajoon huffed a small laugh, shaking his head.

“You always do that.” Jisung stiffened.

“Do what?” He asked, his own tone growing softer.

“Act like you’re made of stone.” Hajoon’s voice was easy, teasing, but there was something else under it - something knowing. “It’s okay to feel things, Hyung. You don’t have to carry everything alone.” Jisung’s fingers twitched. He wanted to believe that. He hated that he wanted to believe that.

They held a long and deep conversation. Jisung managed to open up a bit more to his comrade. Growing slowly, but surely, closer to him. They talked about their childhoods, their favorite foods, even their hopes of seeing the war ending as soon as possible. The talk extended throughout the whole morning, the lunchtime, the afternoon training, the dinner. Suddenly, as they were eating along the other soldiers, Hajoon asked : 

“Do you think we are the good guys in the story?” Jisung swallowed his food harshly.

“You shouldn’t ask about that Hajoon.” He quickly added, feeling gazes on them.

“No but think about it : just a few years ago we were all under Japanese oppression, all enduring the same thing. And now, we’re here fighting each other for nothing more than a political question.” Jisung stopped Hajoon from rambling more.

“Shut up please, we both know we have to defend our people against the Red Plague.” Jisung spat sharply. It wasn’t his own words but he had to make it feel like it was.

On the same evening, Jisung was lying on his cot, staring at the ceiling. The barracks were quiet except for the occasional shuffle of movement, the muffled murmurs of soldiers still awake. His mind should have been focused on tomorrow. On training. On survival. But all he could think about was Hajoon. The way his voice had dropped, serious and unwavering. The way his hand had lingered for just a second too long. The way it had felt right, even when it shouldn’t have. Jisung clenched his jaw. It didn’t mean anything. It was just friendship. Comradeship. He was just tired. That was all. He turned onto his side, pressing his face into the stiff pillow. Then why did his chest feel so fucking tight?

Jisung quickly brushed all of his thoughts away, forcing himself to sleep. However, the next day didn’t go as planned. The sirens woke him up. “Are we attacked?” He asked himself as he immediately got up and ran out of the dorms. Some soldiers were whispering, there was no attack. Jisung’s throat tightened. What was happening if it wasn’t an attack? He slowly went outside, following quietly the small crowd. He looked around. Unconsciously looking for Hajoon. He didn’t find him, maybe he was already outside.

As jisung walked out, his eyes struggled to adapt to the sunlight. He looked around, his vision blurred for a few seconds. Then, he saw him. There was Hajoon. In the middle of the yard. Jisung felt his stomach clenching. As if his inner organs were squeezing themselves inside him. Hajoon was on his knees, arms tied behind his back. His uniform was rumpled, dirt clinging to his skin. But his eyes were still the same. Steady. Unafraid.

“Park Hajoon,” the officer spat. “You have been accused of treason, doubt in our cause, doubt in our victory. Do you have any last words?” Hajoon turned his head slightly, just enough to meet Jisung’s gaze. Jisung felt his stomach drop.

“I just hope you figure it out one day,” Hajoon said softly. His eyes never left Jisung’s. The gunshot was deafening. Jisung didn’t move. Didn’t blink. He forced his face to stay still, to stay unreadable. He ignored the way his hands were shaking, the way something inside him had just collapsed. Hajoon’s body hit the dirt. Blood seeped into the ground. Someone clapped Jisung on the back.

“Another traitor gone,” a soldier muttered. Jisung nodded, swallowing hard. He didn’t say a word. The only thought running in his mind was responding to Hajoon : “But I already had figured dumbass”.

Jisung decided to never open up again. To never feel any form of attachment to anyone ever again. So much that when he got on the boat to reach the battle of Incheon, his loneliness felt almost right.

The boat rocked gently beneath him, the dark water stretching endlessly into the horizon. Jisung sat near the edge, fingers curled around his rifle. The others were laughing, talking, trying to pretend like they weren’t all marching toward death. September 14th. His birthday. It should have meant something. Another year alive. But after everything, it just felt… meaningless. Hajoon was dead. His body was probably buried in some nameless patch of dirt. Jisung hadn’t even said goodbye. Hadn’t even let himself grieve. The sky was clear tonight. No clouds. No storm. Just stillness before the battle. Jisung exhaled, leaning his head back against the railing. He closed his eyes. Twenty years old. But he felt like a corpse already.