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rainb0ws-h4t · 1 month ago

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Savanaclaw

Original

I finally posted this part omg

Octaniville should be out within a week if I'm not busy🫦 (that's a lie, signing of clearance is hell)

Warnings: unhealthy relationships (the boys do not love the reader for good reasons) manipulation, yandere themes, twisted devotion

Leona Kingscholar

Leona Kingscholar? Who? You didn't even know he attended NRC for a few months. The cause being that he almost never attended his classes and never made an appearance unless he was dragged into it. It was only a week before you properly became friends with Yuu did you see him in person.

He towered over Yuu threateningly, silently forcing them to go where he was going. He flashed anyone who dared come close a sinister gaze, a gaze that makes you feel like prey that was soon to be feasted on.

Initially, you learned to avoid him. Unlike Riddle and the others, it would take more than just a few sharp words to get him to leave Yuu alone.

Until it was Wednesday and Yuu has yet to make an appearance in Mr. Trein's class. It has been like this for over a week now and you can visibly see the dissapointment in Mr. Trein's eyes as he glances at Yuu's seat.

They've been missing a lot of material lately, and Mr. Trein just announced a quiz next week. Knowing that they had a lot of trouble with history especially, you made it your responsibility to get them back of track.

Luckily for you, you know who is the reason for their dissapearance.

Approaching the Botanical Gardens, you already see a tail poking out of the bushes. Unimpressed, you stomped on it intentionally.

Startled, Leona awoke instantly. "Shit— Did you do that?" He sternly glared at you, expecting you to start apologizing.

You could see Yuu, who was caged in his arms, breathe a sigh of relief as you made an appearance. Meanwhile you were just glad Leona didn't drool on them.

"Yeah? Now let Yuu go. A quiz's coming up next week and they need to study." You commanded, not submitting into his predatory glare.

"And what?" He sneered before sitting up and turning to Yuu. "Hey, you're a smart one, right? I'm sure you can just miss one quiz and make up for—" Leona let out a pained growl as you stomped harshly on his tail again. "What the fuck!"

Yuu was immediately pulled up from the ground and into your arms.

"What the hell do you think your doing?" He asked aggressively, his sharp canines becoming more apparent than ever. "You've got some real guts to stomp on my tail like that. Why don't we make it even?" The dark shadow over his face clearly implied a darker meaning.

"Awh, that's a shame. I thought I would be able to snap your tail off." You retorted, not relenting. Still, some small part of you felt nervous facing Leona.

"You barely scratched me."

"Based on your reaction, I'm pretty sure I did more than just a cute scratch. Hey, what if I do it again? Third time's a charm, right? Maybe it'll actually snap your tail—" You could barely dodge one of his spells as it lunged towards you.

You and Yuu groaned on the ground. You felt bad for just pulling them to the ground harshly, but atleast you two weren't hit.

"What... Did you just try to kill us?!" You exclaimed.

"Nothing serious, just to paralyze you for a few seconds." He snarked. Although his tone was calm, there was a slight edge to his voice that you didn't like. "Now, give me that little herbivore back and maybe I'll spare you."

"Nothing serious my ass! Come on, Yuu—" you made an attempt at leaving with Yuu but was blocked by a tall figure.

His towering silhouette made you step back a few steps, "You've got some snark I'll give you that, but I wasn't kidding when I said give me the herbivore back." His darkened gaze fell on you, daring you to disobey him.

You glanced at Yuu, and they did too. You turned back with an annoyed stare, "Fine. I'll leave you two alone." You could sense Yuu's nervousness as you spoke out your last syllable.

A small smirk forms on Leona's lips, "Hah. Glad to see I've tamed the feral beast." As he let down his guard, you instantly took Yuu's wrist and dashed out of the Botanical Gardens as fast as you could.

You and the prefect ran inside the school and hid behind a crowd of people, hoping it would cover your scent. You scanned the area before pulling Yuu behind a wall.

"You alright?" You asked, checking for any scratches or bruises they might've gotten.

"I'm fine.. Thanks a lot by the way." They said with a small tint of red on their cheeks but you didn't think much of it. "Why did you do that?"

"Hm?"

"Why did you willingly provoke Leona? He can get violent when he wants to, y'know.." Yuu said, rubbing their forearm.

"Well, it was to save you, of course." You responded truth fully. "And to remind you about Mr. Trein's quiz soon."

You could only chuckle fondly as the prefect groans.

____

Leona didn't like you.

In better words, he despised you.

Even at the very start when he heard of the new friend the prefect has been hanging around with lately. (In fact he hates anyone who dared come close to Yuu.)

He didn't like it at all when the prefect suddenly started made him start feeling like he was second place all over again. Constantly having the need to be better and work harder to gain any form of validation from that one person who he wishes could just look at him like he was irreplaceable.

Unfortunately, those pair of eyes that stare at him so lovingly are only just an illusion he creates in his mind.

He hated that. That part of him who yearns for validation never moved on, never grew up to be the man he is now. That part was still stuck as a child, a constant reminder of the never acknowledged second prince of the kingdom.

The prefect was the first to fully acknowledge this when he overblotted. Even if he gave a cold shoulder, he couldn't help but feel a small moment of bliss. A moment where he could forget all his burdens and just focus on the attention he received from the prefect.

Until you came along.

He has memorized the prefect's schedule to the exact second. He was planning to drag them to the Botanical Gardens. He expected them to be around the courtyard, walking to class. Instead, after 10 minutes of waiting, he finds you and Yuu studying in the library.

When he waits in the library, he suddenly spots you two hanging around in the courtyard.

Some twisted delusion in his mind made him think you were intentionally doing this to spite him, even if you two have yet to even meet at that time. Sevens, he didn't even meet you but he already WIDELY hates you.

Safe to say, you and Leona were on bad terms. You didn't like him and he probably despises you. His death glares whenever you walked past him with Yuu only confirmed that. A chilling glare that would make a regular student scurry away, but you refused to make yourself look small to him, it doesn't matter how terrified you were.

Leona isn't sure when he purposefully walks by you just to make eye contact and see your hardened gaze directed towards him.

Leona isn't sure why the only reason he ever gets up from the Botanical Gardens is to see you glaring at him intensely.

He unintentionally remembers your schedule within a week, bumping into you more often than you would like. Ruggie is stuck wondering why Leona isnt at the Gardens when he needs him.

"Ugh!" You fall to the ground harshly after bumping into someone, your research papers scattering. Yuu wasn't with you at this time, they were currently carrying out a task Crowley had assigned them with Grim.

"I'm sorry! Are you okay-" you immediately stopped yourself when you lifted your head, locking on a pair of emerald eyes you dread to see as you walk in the halls of NRC.

An amused glint flickered in his green eyes as he scanned over your figure and the scattered papers. "What a mess, beasty. Suppose you should start cleanin' up now. Why don't I lend you a helpful hand?" He reaches downwards to grab one of the papers, and examining the contents inside.

You snapped your hand forward to grab the loser back but he moved away last second, "I don't need your help-"

"Won't ya look at the effort you put in to this paper? Color me impressed." He mocked. Of course you had out effort into that paper, everything was hand written-

Rips

The sound of papper ripping made you watch Leona in horror as he tore up your research paper right in front of you with no shame in his face at all. He even had the nerve to show a form of enjoyment at your cost.

It didn't help that that paper was the paper with all the factual evidence you had researched. Having to redo it again and pass within an hour would result in a rushed and low quality text.

Seeing the pieces of paper float downwards, an ugly and hideous emotion started bubbling up within you.

'How can he just stand there looking smug?! How do people look up to this man?! Who cares if you're a prince! I hope you die, Leona Kingscholar!'

Leona had expected you to start an argument with him, the reaction he wants and expected, but instead he watches you just sit on the ground with your eyes fixed on the ripped pieces of paper.

A part of him feels bored that this is your reaction. What happened to the foul mouth of yours back in the garden?

That was until you slowly lift your head and send him a gaze full of hate, disgust, and detestment.

It wasn't the reaction he wanted.

But when you look at him like that, he feels fulfilled.

Leona finds himself looking forward to seeing your glares each day. He finds himself amused when he sees your expression instantly darken when you catch sight of him lurking near you. He doesn't care if you do actually despise him with your entire being.

Leona would be delighted to hear that he was your number one enemy. What a shocker, the only time he wins first place is on someone's enemy list. Your death glares are his trophies.

Your eyes were the complete opposite as to what he wanted to see from Yuu, eyes that would rot and decay before they would willingly hold love and care for him.

Your eyes held so much anger and hatred for him that he can't help but feel like he's the only person in the whole world when you stared at him like that.

For once, Leona feels like he finally won first place.

Ruggie Bucchi

You... Actually don't know where to start? Sure, he's a cunning pick pocketer and has an obsession with doughnuts. What more can you say? You actually see him as a close friend, which was a surprise considering his... Awful housewarden that he serves.

Yuu wanted to watch a Spelldrive match today, mentioning how she liked seeing the colorful spells bouncing back and forth. You, of course, had to go with them. Seeing as how Leona and his Spelldrive club would be competing, you didn't want Yuu anywhere near that lousy lion.

You, Yuu, and Grim were sitting down together until Yuu had said something about being hungry and you offered to get some for the three of you. The game was on pause, as the players were taking a 15 minute break.

As you walked towards the food stands, you notice a few dandelions on the grass beside you. The plant wasn't anything noteworthy, but it just happened to steal your attention for a few seconds before you immediately turned your gaze away.

You finished paying for the snacks. You weren't exactly sure what Yuu and Grim wanted. Ah... you should've asked.. Eventually, you settled on doughnuts. The treats weren't to expensive, and the doughnuts looked too good from the display window not to buy!

A shuffling near the dandelions from earlier alerted you. You turned, praying it wasn't Leona, and instead... Saw a boy chowing down on the dandelions...? To

His features seemed familiar to you, you think you've seen him before. You realized he was one the players from the game! ...And was also Leona's right-hand man...

Confusion overrides you. Aren't the teams provided with food already? And isn't this guy being pai by myd personally by Leona? You want to just walk away but it will lay heavy on your conscience.

Reluctantly, you approached him, tapping his shoulder for his attention.

"Excuse me." You said, gaining his attention.

He turned his head, still chewing on the dandelion. "Huh?"

"Uh.. You can have this." His eyes trailed down to what you were carrying in your extended hand. "I don't think eating dandelions is good for you if I'm being honest."

"Sure it is! Been doing it for awhile now and I feel fine." He responds, making you grow concerned.

You shake the bag in your hand, "Take this."

"Whats this? A gift for me? Syehehe!" He took the bag and opened it. He was surprised to see that it contained 3 doughnuts inside. "Ya sure you want to give this to me? Spending thaumarks to replace these doughnuts won't be cheap y'know."

"You sure you wanna keep talking? Your game starts any moment now." You replied.

He grinned before biting down on the doughnuts you gave him. You eventually walked away, trying to come up with an excuse on why you didn't bring any snacks.

"Heyy! Where's the food?" Grim asked impatiently.

You smiled, "The lines were too long. We'll just get food after the game."

"Ah, okay. The game was gonna start soon anyway." Yuu moved to give you more space.

As you waited, you noticed the countdown for the start of the games had only 15 seconds left. You observed the stadium, noticing the Spelldrive club from NRC looking around hurriedly. A running figure at the corner of your eye caught you attention. You recognized him as the individual who you gave your doughnuts to.

Safe to say, he performed exceptionally well! Not like you had anything to do with his performance but you still feel like you held some credit.

You scooted closer to Yuu, asking if they knew who the hyena-like boy was.

Ruggie Bucchi.

....

Ruggie had figured to repay their kindness. It wasn't something he did often, but he felt he owe them something atleast. He also disliked feeling indebted to someone.

As he searched for you, he held a bag of doughnuts. He would be lying if he said he wasnt dissapointed that these doughnuts weren't for him.

Ruggie heard a familiar voice sounding from behind a door, a voice he adored to hear.

"What do you plan to do after you graduate from NRC?"

He opened the door to see the prefect and the person from yesterday sitting across from each other on a table.

"I'll probably train my magic more. Then, I'll try to join organizations that focuses on helping people." They spoke, sinking back on their seat.

"That's admirable." Yuu said.

"What about you?"

The prefect looked unsure, "I don't have much options to begin with... But if I could choose, I'd travel the world and document my findings as an otherworldly person." They smiled. "I barely step a foot outside of NRC. I think a job like that would suit me!"

Huh.

Weird.

Nothing like his already planned future with the prefect.

The two of them were suppose to get married, move in together, and live happily ever after. He would work hard and come home to the prefect in his arms, safe and unharmed.

That's the perfect future he planned for the both of them. How would he be able to come home to the prefect if they're out traveling the world? How would he ever guarantee their safety if he isn't near them?

Of course. Their safety is only guaranteed in his arms.

"And maybe you could come with me too?" the prefect turned to the person across from them.

They sent a small smile to the Ramshackle prefect. "I'd love to."

...

You didn't receive any doughnuts that day, and had no clue you were even suppose to receive doughnuts.

....

Ruggie planned a complete future for him and the prefect. It was perfect, and he was already saving up for when they will hold their wedding.

How would he be able to form that perfect future if the prefect left him to explore the world with that... person? The prefect should stay at home, with him. Home is where they will be free from any impurity that will stain their image.

You... you will ruin that. You will ruin everything. He orchestrated this future by the millisecond, but your influence will inspire them to do things that does not align with his idea of a perfect future.

You don't know why but Ruggie has been approaching you a lot as of late, and it was always when you were headed to hang out with Yuu. He always appears at the right time to drag you away and lead you somewhere else far from Yuu.

You didn't think much about it first. After all, he was easy to talk to, make jokes with, and overall friendly... Until he overdid it.

On days when you really wanted to see Yuu, you're constantly dragged away from him. Of course, there were times you refuted and explained you had to see the prefect for something important. Ruggie would agree to go get Yuu for you, but he always came back to you saying that the prefect wasn't at the spot you two planned.

On times you were able to see Yuu and inquire, they said that you took too long and they would end up leaving.

You'd make a better attempt at refuting Ruggie's attempts at dragging you away, but somehow... your body never seemed to agree with you. You try to turn and walk away from him, but your body forces you to walk besides Ruggie. The movements between you two were completely synchronized.

This has to be his UM, right? But how do you bring that up without seeming like an assumer? When you feel like you've gain control of your body again, you can hear Ruggie whisper something before you lose control once again.

You're forced to sit beside Ruggie on the grass while internally worrying for Yuu's safety. He starts talking and talking and you have no choice but to listen attentively.

Before you knew it, you and Ruggie have started meeting up more often than not. The relationship between you two deepening by the second, but you still only saw him as a close buddy. You find yourself enjoying and laughing at his jokes. This new side of Ruggie that you see wasn't like his usual playful and conniving self. He was sincere and even gentle.

On one of those meetups, you're easily pulled into a conversation about the future and whatnot. Unlike your conversation with Yuu, you actually went deeper about your plans.

Ruggie shared his own plans too, and you were surprised at how simple it was. He just wanted to be eternally together with his spouse. It's sweet, but you can't imagine being constantly around the same person at all times of day and night. When you shared that part, you notice a darkened shadow casted on his features before disappearing immediately as if you just imagined it.

...

Being constantly around the same person is tiring and repetitive? Aren't you the one who's always around the prefect?!

Don't you know how tiring it is maintaining a facade? He's sick of it! Sincere and gentle? That's nothing like him. At first he only did these meetups to force you and the prefect apart for as long as he could, but now Ruggie feels as if that plan backfired.

When did he start going to the meetups for you solely?

When did he start wishing the meetups could last all day?

Why does he feel a pang of hurt when you say you only see him as a close friend instead of your future eternal spouse?

Oh well... it's not like you even have a choice.

Ruggie has felt his carefully sculpted future with Yuu contort ever since you came into the picture. He feels as if the home he plans to live in with his beloved would suit you better. So what if you dislike being around the same person constantly? You'll just have to get used to it.

Yuu could travel the world at all times and he'd just let them be. The only thing he wants is you now after all! Syehehehe!

Jack Howl

Yuu's bodyguard.

It all started when you had to leave for the bathroom for a few minutes. When you came out, you noticed a group of students surrounding Yuu. Worry filled you as you came closer to the scene, hoping Yuu wasn't being harmed. Someone seemed to be Infront of the prefect, like they were protecting them... Is that Jack?

He scared the students away easily, and you immediately ran to Yuu for an explanation. That was until Jack blocked your way, when you were just mere meters away from the prefect.

"Do not come any closer." He commanded.

"Excuse me, I need to ask-" You tried pushing him out of the way with your arms, but it was no use with his physique.

"I said don't come any closer. Didn't you hear me the first time?" He repeated more assertively.

"Jack, they're my friend! You don't need to do that.." With Yuu's words, Jack reluctantly stepped aside. His piercing glare wasn't left unnoticed though.

You didn't waste your time on him, "Yuu, what happened earlier? Are you okay?" You patted your hands around the different parts of their body, checking for any signs of injury.

"I'm fine thanks to Jack. Those students just went up to me randomly and started bothering me... I'm not hurt though if you're still concerned."

You only sighed in response, "I hope youre telling the truth."

The prefect turned to Jack, "Thanks again, Jack. I'm not sure what I would've done, especially since Grim isn't here with me today..."

You noticed how Jack's tail started wagging at the sound of them thanking him. Talk about subtly, huh?

"Let's go now, (Name)!" Yuu said, gesturing you to follow them.

Yuu walked ahead, with you trailing behind. You stopped in your tracks right after you passed Jack.

"By the way, don't think I didnt notice your glare earlier." You said, loud and clear for him to hear. Without waiting for a response, you sped up to catch up with Yuu, who was unaware of what happened.

You definitely did not make a good first impression, but hey, what's new?

Ever since that encounter with you, Jack has made sure to keep you away from the prefect at all times he is near.

Jack's admiration for the prefect began when they planned how to stop and expose Leona from continuing his scheme. The prefect's highlighted intelligence and bravery enamoured Jack, and that started his little crush.

That "crush" spiraled into something deeper and twisted as Yuu started interacting with more and more people because of their heroic adventures. Jealously bubbled in him as the prefect started seeing him less and less.

Jack's idea of the prefect was someone of purity and untainted. He feared the prefect would stray away from that idea as more people start influencing them and "staining" their purity. That's when Jack started feeling the need to protect the prefect from everything that will ruin them.

The most influential person he feared would completely corrupt the prefect was you.

You were everything he didnt want in Yuu, so he made sure you were never getting near the prefect on his watch.

Jack has been appearing a lot more recently.

You found his appearances suspicious.. you dared say that it was convenient.

You were heading somewhere to meet up with Yuu when you bumped into Jack along the way. Remembering your last encounter, you tried to not stall the meeting. Savanaclaw wasn't really known for being welcoming and such.

"Where are you going?" Jack asks, arms crossed with a neutral expression on his face.

"I'm going to see Yuu." You replied, hoping that that would be the end of your conversation.

"Did they tell you? Crowley assigned them another task in his office. They're not free right now." He responds bluntly.

"What? They didn't mention anything about that.."

"That's what they said when I bumped into them a few minutes ago." He says, walking towards the direction you came from.

You can't bring yourself to trust Jack so easily, but he seems believable. He did just come from the direction you were originally headed. Plus, why would Jack lie about this? He appears like a serious guy, and doesn't really seem like he'd do those types of things without a reason or a plan behind it.

But he does have a plan, and you were unknowingly going along with it perfectly when you turned and left to go back to your dorm.

Awhile later, you received a text from Yuu.

Yuu: Sorry if I wasn't at there !! Crowley js gave me a task randomly and left :(

You: nah dw

You: Jack told me everything

Yuu: He did??

You: yeah while I was going to you, I bumped into him and he told me you were busy

Yuu: how did jack know Abt my task?

You: he said he bumped into you a few minutes b4 he bumped into me

Yuu: I never bumped into Jack earlier

Yuu: Crowley gave me a task and left and I just went with Grim to do the work so it wouldn't pile up

...

Jack lied and he didn't at the same time?

That's odd... why would he go out of his way to lie even if it resulted in the same outcome? It definitely wasn't necessary, but it also wasn't so perplexing that you'd start brainstorming ideas on why Jack lied.

In the end, it ended with you mindlessly texting Yuu for the next hour before sleeping comfortably on your sheets.

The following day, you were walking towards Ramshackle to walk with the prefect. Until a familiar beastman came into your sights. You didn't think the two of you had any reason to converse so you tried walking past him.

"Are you going to the prefect again?" He asks, back facing your back.

You turn your head to look behind you, "Yeah, I am."

"The prefect is sick so don't bother." He replies before walking away to the main building of NRC.

Sick? They did not seem sick last night!

Unfortunately, as much as you wanted to run towards Ramshackle and check up on their wellbeing, clock was ticking and a test was awaiting.

You eventually and reluctantly decided to walk back to class. If Jack was lying, then you'd prove that by seeing if the prefect was in class.

You scanned the room over and over but to no avail. It really does seem like Yuu had fallen I'll, was Crowley's task too intense? You figured to take care of them when classes were dismissed.

Jack internally celebrated the smooth flow of his plan. He was able to effectively separate the two of you naturally. If he kept this up, the relationship between you two would crumble soon enough.

Then, you'd never ever have the chance to taint the prefect's purity with your filth.

The prefect is only safe under his protection afterall. Who else would willingly drive away the wicked who wish to corrupt an angel?

Jack wishes that one day the prefect will recognize his efforts in maintaining their perfect being and express their gratitude. Maybe then he'd allow himself to embrace their warmth, to let his uncontaminated self freely bask in the serenity of their presence.

And when he allows himself the pleasure to do so, will he truly be happy.

(What a hypocrite. He dreads seeing unworthy people interact with the prefect, but wishes he could do the same without feeling guilty of tainting them.)

Class was dismissed and you were headed to Ramshackle, until you a familiar voice interjects, making you top in your tracks.

"Are you visiting the prefect?" Jack crossed his arms, his expression was still as stern as ever.

"Yeah, I'm gonna check up on them." You answer. You were slowly growing suspicious of Jack. Why does he keep asking about your whereabouts?

"You shouldn't. Grim told me the prefect wasn't in the mood to be in anyone's presence, including Grim." Jack explained, quickly shutting down your plans of visiting Ramshackle.

You thought about it for a moment before leaving. As much as you worried about Yuu, you knew they had their intense moments of stress. Times like those were much better comforted with solitude rather than company.

You planned to visit the next after class when... Jack conveniently told you something that shit down your plans instantly. And again, and again, before you knew it, it was already the end of the week!

You were becoming insanely anxious about Yuu's health, and Jack was no help at all! Honestly, why do you even just go along with his words anyway? It was so unlike you! The pit in your stomach worsens when the prefect has yet to message you for almost a week.

As soon as class was officially dismissed, you made a bee line towards Ramshackle and you swore nothing will stop you.

A familiar white headed man was in your path as usual, but you weren't going to leave now unlike before. "You're going to see the-"

"No! Just shut up!" You snapped, immediately causing Jack to shut his mouth.

His brows arched, seemingly agitated. "What was that for?"

"I need to go to Ramshackle!"

"You do know it's pointless? I already said it many times before. The prefect does not want to be in the company of anyone else-"

"And I don't care! They may not want to be in the company of anyone else, but they need someone to take care of them!" You locked eyes with him. "You are not stopping me this time!" You retorted, jogging away from him and towards the wooden building in the distance.

Jack stood there, stunned. He guesses his plan wasn't as perfected as he assumed it to be.

But it wasn't just that that left him stunned, it was that desperate look in your eyes when your pupils locked. The look of complete desperation and distress.

Maybe he saw himself in you. The pulsing urge to find out whether the prefect was okay or not. That's how he always felt whenever an overblot occurs and Yuu always happens to be involved. Distress fills Jack as he searches for Yuu in the aftermath of the disaster, only to see people crowding the prefect.

In truth, Jack barely interacted with the prefect. As their popularity skyrocketed, the prefect started becoming more and more like an untouchable deity in his eyes. No one was worthy of their presence, some were just lucky to be chosen as a close companion.

When he saw that look of desperation in your eyes, he thought you looked utterly pathetic.. The prefect was only sick for a week and you were getting so worked up over it. You were lucky to be chosen as a close companion, but you still weren't worthy of ever being near the prefect in his eyes.

Seeing you in that state made him realize something.

Perhaps somewhere deep in Jack's twisted devotion, he knew his desperate yearnings for the prefect was of no use. And he deluded himself into thinking you didn't feel good enough for the prefect as well.

Tainted and desperate just like him.

Jack felt afraid to come close to the prefect because he might've stained their being. But he didn't feel that with you. He didn't feel the need to suppress himself near you.

Like him, you were stained. You both weren't worthy of the perfect deity, but you two also weren't dirt filthy like the rest.

Perhaps only the two of you could make a perfect pair.

___

Omg I am so sorry I took this long djjdkshdneej it's not even that good oml

I've been so busy it was insane but I'm so happy I was able to finish this

Btw jack is describing you in his perspectives so that's why it gets kinda deep and yeah yk dhdhsksjksks

Thanks to anyone who actually waited that long for this😭

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@yourloreleihere @dreamlessnight @minkuro

@kokonuthead @valentinaagarcia @tonponton @nebulabunni3 @moonie-saysbleb3 @3lliesan @valer1esgallery

#twisted wonderland #twst #x reader #yandere twisted wonderland x reader #yandere #twst leona #leona x reader #leona kingscholar #twst ruggie #ruggie bucchi #ruggie bucchi x reader #jack howl #jack howl x reader #x yuu #yandere leona kingscholar #Yandere Ruggie Bucchi #Yandere Jack Howl #i need help lol #No beta we like Sua

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agirlwithglam · 3 months ago

Text

📚 It girl's guide to school 📚

hiii girls! this is part of the big Guide to being the It Girl. this section will be all about school, studying and academics. i'll teach you how to tackle school, get the highest grades effortlessly, and look chic and gorgeous doing it! the rest of the ultimate it girl series is linked! 🎀

guide to getting good grades:

LISTEN IN CLASS. one of the best tips ever. if you would actually listen to what your teachers teaching in class, you’d get to spend a lot less time studying.

ask if you need help! these teachers are qualified for the job, they’re meant to be good at it. so if you don’t understand something, don’t be afraid to ask. and if you’re really too much of a chicken, ask once the class is over or email the teacher. but honestly? half the kids probably aren’t even listening tbh so u do ur thing!

participate in class. actually participating in class will help you so much in recalling the information. it’s a great way to actively revise. you don’t have to be a teachers pet or anything, but if you know the answer, put yourself out there. anyone who judges you simply judges themselves and their inability to speak up.

change up your environment so that you're still interested and excited to learn! you could go to a coffee shop, set up a mini picnic in the woods, go to a library, etc.

use alter egos!! i will never stop recommending this because it really is an amazing tip. either you can create your own alter ego who loves to study and gets high grades, or you could pretend you're rory gilmore or hermione granger!

revision/ study techniques:

feynman technique: teach it to someone else/ to plushies. try not to look at your notes too much, pretend ur a teacher.

use practice questions/ practice exams! trust me this can be so helpful! try and find past exams and go over them in exam conditions so you can see what u missed later. or, you can get all the info and ask an AI like chatgpt to write questions based on it and go through them!

BLURTING! love this method! basically, you write all the information you know about the topic on one page (optional: set a time limit) and then go over it with a different colour pen and add in what you missed. do this a couple times until you haven't missed anything! - you can do this by creating a mind-map, or literally just scribbling down everything you know.

SQ3R method: survey/ skim over the text, question- make questions on it, read- begin reading to find the answers to the questions, recite- summarise the words in a section in your own words, review- quiz yourself on what you just learnt

organise/ prioritise what you need to study using the traffic light method. first, identify the topics, then highlight them according to these 3 colors: red- struggling a lot/ no idea , yellow- okay ish, need to work on it a bit tho , green- good understanding & confident on the topic.

make associations. this is especially helpful for when you need to memorise things. the thing you need to memorise- link it to stuff that you already know.

⭐️ use mnemonics, songs, raps to remember! a couple years back, my science teacher made us create a rap on osmosis (a biology term). and not even kidding, i still remember the simple definition of what it does because of that rap! so create songs or rap and maybe even make a whole music video on it! trust me, not only is it so fun but it really does help keep the information in your mind!

more resources:

huge big list of studying and school

another big study masterpost

100 reasons to study

how to be a whole new student this year

ACE your exams -by me!

study icons:

as i mentioned earlier, channelling the energy of a character who already studies and gets good grades is an amazing way of getting yourself motivated! here are some of my favs & tips to study like them! (p.s i've also added links to the names for a more in depth guide on each person!)

♡ rory gilmore

she loves studying- develop that mindset! have a passion for learning more.

"i can go from 0 to studying in less than 60 seconds"

switch between different subjects when you get bored

ask someone to test you with flashcards

♡ elle woods:

study while you exercise- take care of ur body too!

"what, like its hard?"- i love her sm for this!! if anyone else can do something, of course you can do it too!

be ambitious + have strong source of motivation

get into study groups

♡ paris geller

have the discipline and ambition to do the things that will get you to where you want.

"i want to win, and i'm going to win." - love this, she's sure of herself and confident in her abilities.

prioritise & use to do lists

start early to be the top of your class!

♡ blair waldorf

honestly its so fun to embody her energy of high value, cares about her education, so confident and takes no sh*t from others!

"anything you can do, i can do better"

always have a plan

have flash cards, take notes

♡ hermione granger

always participate in class!

read more about the material. + learn more!

teach others & help them study

finish the hw/ work quickly and do the extra credit!

stylish in school 101:

SURVIVING SCHOOL AIR: here are some tips to staying/ looking pretty and refreshed all day at school bc u and i both know the horrors of school air 🙀 :)

DRINK WATER. stay hydrated - very important. always drink water. this keeps your lips hydrated, face hydrated, and just makes you look a lil less dead.

lip gloss/ lip balm to reapply throughout the day, esp for my girlies with chapped lips! i keep lip balm in my pocket so its always there when needed, but you can also keep it in your locker/ bag/ pencil case.

perfume. you can keep it in your locker/ bag/ pencil case to spray whenever needed and smell sweet and amazing the entire day <3

stop touching your face!! your hands have so much crusty dust and bacteria that can give pimples on your face.

keep hair away from your face. leave it out if you want, but try to make sure it doesn't touch your face too much- it also has tons of crusty musty dusty germs

keep a hairbrush in your locker. listen, i know how messy hair can get during school so keeping it in school is SO helpful to maintain the tidyness and cleanliness

waterproof makeup - if you wear makeup.

sunscreen!! keep. applying. SUNSCREENN!! i'm not going to elaborate further on this point.

ACCESSORISING YOUR UNIFORM!!

this is for the girlies who have a school uniform! i understand it can be so annoying so to have more fun and feel more confident, ACCESSORIZEE everything as much as you're allowed! here are some ideas!

♡ necklesses

♡ bracelets

♡ bows in your hair

♡ bows in your bag

♡ bows everywhere basically 🎀

♡ decorate your ipad/ pencilcase with stickers

♡ headbands

♡ rings

♡ cute earrings

♡ cute watch

♡ nails

♡ a cute clip!

the ultimate it girl series

xoxo, vanilla!

231 notes · View notes

solxamber · 7 months ago

Text

Project Love - Rollo Flamme x reader

When your eccentric professor pairs you and Rollo up for a study on attachment types, you didn't realise how much it would change your lives.

Rollo Week Day 1! (also Rollo anon I hope you're seeing this).

It was just supposed to be an easy, laid-back semester. But no, the universe decided to throw you into the one psychology class known for ruining lives—and not even in the fun, dramatic, reality-show way. No, this was the kind of class where you could leave the semester with a full-blown existential crisis.

You didn’t even like psychology, but here you were, forced to take this professor’s class because all the others were full. To make matters worse, this wasn’t just any class; it was the dreaded experimental psychology class. The one where the professor was famous—not for his teaching, but for ruining lives in the name of academic study.

The rumor mill had been vicious: forget about traditional exams or group projects; no, this professor made people participate in wildly invasive experiments to "explore the human mind." And by "explore," it meant pushing boundaries until they snapped. You'd heard stories of students breaking up with their partners, dropping out, or crying in public. So, naturally, this was the class you got stuck in.

You thought they were joking, but the moment you walked into the room, saw the professor standing there with his glasses reflecting the overhead lights like some kind of horror movie villain, you knew. This wasn’t going to be good.

You look around the room, praying that maybe you could sit somewhere inconspicuous, keep your head down, and survive. But of course, the only seat open was next to that guy. The one who looked like he’d rather burn the entire campus down than breathe the same air as everyone else.

Oh no.

Rollo Flamme.

Your brief interaction with him was limited to vague campus rumors, but the gist was that he hated everything and everyone. He probably had a master plan to rid the world of all things fun—carnivals, birthday parties, and smiles. Which was ironic because the moment you locked eyes with him, all your social anxiety kicked in, and you smiled automatically. Like a reflex.

For a moment, Rollo froze. And then, something strange happened: instead of the scowl you expected, his expression softened, almost imperceptibly. He didn’t smile back, but you could see the flicker of surprise in his eyes, like your smile had thrown off his whole mood. In fact, as you sat down next to him, you noticed that he kept glancing at you out of the corner of his eye, like he didn’t know what to do with the fact that you smiled at him.

That smile, as far as he was concerned, was the cutest thing he’d seen all year. He wasn’t about to say that out loud, of course, but the thought definitely lingered.

You blinked at him, expecting some kind of verbal response, but before the moment could get any weirder, the professor clapped his hands, demanding everyone’s attention. You flinched, and so did Rollo. Not a great start.

“Welcome, students!” the professor announced with far too much enthusiasm for someone about to ruin lives. “This semester, we’re going to be conducting real-world psychological experiments again!”

You and Rollo exchanged a look—his full of concern, yours full of dread.

“And our first project,” the professor continued, “is an experiment to see how different attachment styles interact in relationships! You will be paired based on your attachment style, and for the next few months, you’ll be living together, learning to navigate these dynamics firsthand!”

What.

Living. Together?!

You wanted to raise your hand and ask if this was some kind of joke, but the professor’s manic grin told you he was dead serious.

He handed out some papers, one of which was an attachment style quiz. You skimmed through the questions, trying to focus, but your brain was already spiraling. Living with a stranger? No way. Not happening. Maybe you could drop out before the end of the class?

You finished the quiz, hoping against hope that this was just an exercise and not a real commitment. But then the professor came back, holding a clipboard with everyone’s results.

“Ah! You’re a secure type. Congratulations, that’s the healthiest attachment style.” He beamed at you like you’d won a medal. “And Rollo…” The professor glanced down, “You’re anxious-preoccupied. Interesting!”

You glanced at Rollo, who was currently gripping the sides of his desk like it was the only thing keeping him from a full-on nervous breakdown. Great.

The professor’s grin widened. “Well, this is perfect. You two will be paired together for this experiment. I’m sure this will be a very educational experience!”

You wanted to protest, but the professor moved on, pairing up the other students. You felt like the ground had just opened up beneath you. Live together? With Rollo Flamme? For a whole semester? How were you going to survive this?

By the end of class, it was official. You had to relocate to a new dorm today. It was like some twisted version of “new roommate bonding,” except instead of awkwardly sharing a bathroom schedule, you were forced to bond over psychological trauma.

The move itself was a nightmare. You were dragging your bags down the hall, trying not to collapse from the weight (both literal and emotional). By the time you finally managed to get all your stuff into the new dorm, you felt like throwing yourself off the nearest cliff. Or at least dropping out of school. Either would be fine.

You flopped onto your bed, groaning. “I swear, if I survive this, I’m never taking another psych class again,” you muttered to yourself. You were two seconds away from reconsidering all your life choices when Rollo appeared at the doorway, looking perfectly fine, not a hair out of place, and holding… pasta?

"I... thought it would be good to have something ready," he said, looking anywhere but directly at you. "Since we’re... apparently in a relationship. For the semester."

You blinked, completely stunned. After everything that happened today, you had not expected this. But you weren’t about to complain. In fact, you could feel a huge wave of relief wash over you. If you had to be stuck in this bizarre experiment, at least it was with someone who had a functioning kitchen and the decency to make dinner.

"I have never been more grateful for a pasta dish in my entire life," you said, dropping into the nearest chair. "I’m so happy you’re the one I got paired with, Rollo."

Rollo looked pleased, though he kept his expression neutral. He quickly sat down beside you, mumbling something about “it’s just dinner.” But you could tell he was trying.

As you sat there, eating the surprisingly delicious food Rollo made, you realized that maybe this semester wouldn’t be as bad as you thought. Or maybe you were just delirious from exhaustion.

Either way, at least you weren’t going to starve to death while this crazy project unfolded.

The first week of living together, and you're hit with a revelation: How the hell is this guy the one with his life together? Rollo Flamme, the same dude who almost gave you a whole monologue about chaos and anarchy the first time you smiled at him, is actually the most functional human being you've ever encountered.

His laundry’s always done, his side of the room is spotless, and somehow, he manages to work on his research without looking like he’s two seconds away from a nervous breakdown (unlike you, whose fourth cup of coffee is practically a security blanket at this point).

And here you are, the so-called "secure" attachment type, flailing around like you're barely hanging on to life. How was he not the secure one? This was messed up.

To make matters worse, Rollo is also incredibly polite. Always holding doors open, saying "thank you" after even the tiniest favor, and offering you a perfectly folded blanket when you passed out on the couch mid-cram session. He'd be the perfect roommate—if you were running a bed-and-breakfast. But for a relationship? Oh, no. This man had walls built so high around him, you’d need a rescue helicopter to even get near his emotions.

You weren’t about to let this continue, though. You had time. You were persistent. You’d break through that fortress if it killed you.

One day, you sat next to him in the living room, where he was working on his latest research paper. Curiosity got the better of you, and you peeked over at his screen. Magic, naturally. Specifically, how magic is dangerous and needs to be controlled more. You made an offhand comment about how he might actually be onto something—“Yeah, some people really don’t know how to use magic responsibly, it’s like handing a toddler a blowtorch”—and that’s all it took.

Rollo’s eyes lit up like you’d just complimented his entire worldview.

He turned to you, eyes wide, rapid-firing questions about your beliefs on magic regulation, ethics, and societal impact. For the first time since you met him, Rollo was genuinely invested, his polite, aloof demeanor melting away as he engaged with you on something that clearly mattered to him. You could practically hear the mental ding ding ding of his brain going, "Finally! Someone gets it!"

By the end of that conversation, the fortress had cracked. The walls weren’t all the way down, but you were inside the outer gates now.

The next day, the roles were reversed. You were on your fourth hour of staring at your own research paper, and the words on the screen were blurring into nonsensical strings of letters. Panic was creeping in, and you were halfway through reaching for your trusty fourth cup of coffee when—slap! Your hand was swatted away.

You looked up, highly offended, only to find Rollo standing over you with a disapproving frown. The audacity.

Without a word, he set down a glass in front of you. Some kind of healthy drink. You stared at it, not trusting it, and he raised an eyebrow, wordlessly daring you to refuse. He'd probably whipped it up himself—fresh, nutritious, and annoyingly sensible.

Grumbling under your breath, you drank it, because at this point, you might as well lean into the chaos of this semester. Surprisingly, it wasn’t bad. It tasted like nature and rejuvenation, or whatever health blogs promise, and you actually felt... better? You powered through your project, and the next morning, you woke up feeling—get this—good. No post-caffeine crash, no impending migraine, just clear-headed and ready to tackle the day.

Your joy was so overwhelming that you practically skipped into the kitchen, like a Disney princess who’d just had her life together for the first time. And there was Rollo, cooking breakfast like the absolute enigma that he was. Naturally, you wandered over and, without even thinking, gave him a back hug while peeking over his shoulder into the pan.

“Smells good,” you said, completely oblivious to the way Rollo froze, spatula in hand, his whole body going rigid.

In Rollo’s mind, you were some sort of divine being who had descended from the heavens to test his resolve. The second you wrapped your arms around him, his brain short-circuited. You were so close. Too close. And soft. And you smelled like whatever magical soap you used, which was currently wreaking havoc on his ability to think coherently.

Why were you like this?

Was this another experiment to see how fast you could make his heart explode?

He tried to maintain his composure, flipping the food in the pan with shaky hands while silently praying you’d release him before he combusted on the spot.

But no. You just kept on, completely oblivious to his suffering, chatting about your day while casually hugging him like it was the most normal thing in the world.

You ate breakfast like nothing was wrong, even thanked him with another hug before running off to class. Meanwhile, Rollo was left standing in the kitchen, staring after you like a Victorian gentleman who had just witnessed an ankle. The moment you were out the door, he crouched on the floor, hands covering his blushing face, mentally calculating how much more of this he could endure before he cracked entirely.

This experiment was going to be the death of him.

It was supposed to be a quick night out. A few drinks with some classmates after a grueling day, nothing crazy. You'd told Rollo you'd be back by 11 pm, tops. Maybe you should’ve accounted for the "one more drink" and the "just five more minutes" that inevitably pushed things to 12:30 am. And as fate would have it, your phone decided to die right around the time Rollo was pacing the floors of your shared dorm like a nervous cat, eyes flicking to the clock every five seconds.

By 12:01 am, the texts started. First, a gentle, "Hey, where are you? Still out?"

By 12:15 am, it escalated to "Are you okay? You said you'd be back by now."

At 12:20, "Should I come get you?"

By 12:25 am, he was borderline feral. "Why aren't you answering??" followed swiftly by "I'm about to call the authorities."

When he finally called and got the "unreachable" message, he nearly tipped into full-blown panic mode. His heart was doing triple time, his thoughts spiraling. What if something happened?

He was seconds away from convincing himself that you’d been kidnapped by a gang of magically-enhanced thugs when, to his immense relief, the door creaked open.

You strolled in like it was just another night, smiling at him, completely unaware of the mini-apocalypse happening in his brain.

"Hey! Sorry, my phone died—"

"You’re late," he interrupted, voice tighter than the grip he had on his phone.

You blinked. "Yeah, but—"

"No, do you realize what time it is? Do you know how long I’ve been waiting?" His voice cracked, frustration evident, and you could see the tension practically radiating off him. His shoulders were rigid, and his hands shook ever so slightly as he ran them through his hair. He’d always seemed so calm, so composed, but this was the first time you were seeing the cracks.

Before you could stop yourself, your own irritation bubbled up. "I was just out for a couple hours, Rollo, it's not like I—"

But then, you saw it. His breathing was uneven, his whole posture screamed tension, and there was a slight tremor in his hands. Your words trailed off, dissolving in your throat.

He looked ready to combust, and not because he wanted to win an argument. He’d been worried. That realization clicked into place, and your frustration evaporated. He wasn’t angry—he was scared.

You stepped closer, quickly closing the gap between the two of you, and before he could say another word, you reached out and pulled him to you. His head rested on your shoulder, and for a second, he went completely still, as if surprised by the contact. But then, his rigid frame began to loosen, his shallow breaths slowing as he allowed himself to relax in your hold.

“I’m sorry,” you murmured, your hand running gently through his hair. “I should’ve found a way to let you know. My phone died and I didn’t think—I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to worry you like that.”

For a moment, the two of you just stood there in the middle of the room, his face pressed against your shoulder as he took deep breaths, gradually calming down. His grip on your sleeve tightened for a moment before he slowly pulled back, clearly feeling a little sheepish.

“No, I... I overreacted,” he said quietly, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s not my place to—"

“Stop that,” you interrupted. “Experiment or not, we're in this together. You’re allowed to worry. I should’ve told you somehow. I get it now.”

He looked at you, relieved but still unsure, before nodding. You’d come to a resolution—a better understanding of each other.

That night, you both settled on the couch, and you insisted on watching a horror movie to distract from the emotional rollercoaster of the evening. It was one of those ridiculously low-budget flicks with bad special effects and even worse acting, but it did the job.

You sat next to him, his hand gripping yours a little tighter than usual, but you didn’t mind. You leaned back, content, while the garbage horror played in the background, his fingers still interlocked with yours like an unspoken promise that things would be okay.

The next thing that happens makes you realize that the previous night’s breakthrough was only just the tip of the iceberg. Because, apparently, when it comes to Rollo, "issues" aren't fixed with a single comforting hug and some popcorn-level bonding.

It’s a chill afternoon, and you’re gaming in the shared area, completely immersed in your screen. You’ve been stuck on the same boss battle for nearly an hour, so you’re laser-focused, fingers flying over the controls like your life depends on it. You barely register it when Rollo asks something—something mundane, judging by his soft tone—but you’re too preoccupied to catch what it was. You only give a noncommittal grunt in response, eyes glued to the screen as your character slashes through another wave of enemies.

When you finally finish the round (victoriously, might I add), you glance up, stretching your arms, and catch sight of Rollo sitting across the room, looking... incredibly uncomfortable? He’s fidgeting with his sleeves, brow furrowed, biting his lip like someone just asked him to solve world hunger. You blink.

“Rollo?”

He jolts a little, startled by your voice, and looks over at you with wide eyes. You tilt your head. “Did you ask me something earlier?”

His response is instant: “Oh, no, it’s fine! You don’t have to—uh—I didn’t mean to bother you.”

Now that gets your attention. You pause your game, your controller forgotten, as you sit up a little straighter. "Wait, what? Bother me? Rollo, what are you talking about?”

You watch as he shifts awkwardly, his shoulders tight and his gaze flicking between you and the floor. It's the same nervous energy from the night before, except now it's wrapped in a weird layer of... guilt? What the hell?

You toss your controller aside, standing up and walking over to him, and without a second thought, you plop down on the couch right beside him. “C’mon, what’s up?” you coax, nudging him gently. “What did you want to ask me?”

For a second, he doesn’t answer, staring at his hands like they're the most interesting thing in the world. But you don’t move, waiting him out. After a few long moments, he lets out a sigh, almost resigned.

“I thought… I thought you were mad at me because I asked you a question, and you didn’t answer.” His voice is so quiet you almost don’t hear it.

You blink. Once. Twice. And then, the realization hits you like a ton of bricks. Oh, no. He really thought you were mad at him because you didn’t respond right away? Because you were busy gaming? You bite back a groan of exasperation, but not at him—no, at the fact that this poor guy is carrying around enough emotional baggage to fill a whole fleet of U-hauls.

“Rollo,” you say softly, scooting closer. He doesn’t look up. You reach out and place a hand on his arm, giving it a light squeeze. “I wasn’t mad. I didn’t even hear you, I was just really into my game.”

He finally lifts his head, and you can see the hint of skepticism in his eyes. “You’re sure?”

“Positive.” You give him a smile, trying to make it as reassuring as possible. “I wasn’t ignoring you or anything. I just... you know, lost track of everything. It happens.”

It’s like watching the air slowly deflate out of a balloon. Rollo’s shoulders visibly sag with relief, and he takes a deep breath, exhaling like he’d been holding it in for way too long. “Oh. Okay. That’s… good.”

You grin, giving him a playful nudge. “What, you thought I’d throw a fit over something like that? C’mon, give me some credit.”

His lips twitch, almost like he’s fighting back a smile. “I don’t know. You can get pretty intense when you’re gaming.”

“Fair, but I’m only intense about winning.” You flash him a cheeky smile. “Which, by the way, I did.”

His mouth quirks up at the corner, and just like that, the tension in the room finally dissolves. He’s not exactly laughing, but he’s definitely less tense, and that’s a win in your book.

You mentally add “reassure Rollo he’s not annoying” to the growing list of things you need to keep an eye on while living together. Clearly, you’d be doing a lot of emotional heavy lifting in this experiment. But hey, at least you’d have an extra hand when it came to back hugs in the kitchen.

It starts out innocently enough. You cancel a study session with Rollo—no big deal, right? It’s just one meeting, and you’ve got other commitments. You shoot him a quick text, fully expecting him to be fine with it.

But when you see him later that day? Oh boy.

Rollo looks like he’s just received news that the sky is falling. He’s pacing slightly, his expression carefully controlled, but you can feel the dark cloud of tension radiating off of him. It’s not like he’s outright mad at you, but something’s off. You tilt your head, watching as he fidgets with his sleeve, not quite making eye contact.

“Rollo? You good?”

He freezes for a second, then gives you a tight-lipped smile that’s about as comforting as a broken umbrella in a hurricane. “Fine,” he says, in the most not fine way possible.

And then it clicks. This guy’s not just upset about canceled plans—he’s taking it personally. His anxiety is in full swing, and you realize this is way deeper than you thought. Suddenly, his every movement seems loaded with tension, like he’s waiting for the other shoe to drop. And you're hit with the revelation that maybe—just maybe—Rollo’s not as emotionally stable as you first assumed.

So, after a beat, you decide to do the responsible thing and sit him down for a proper chat. You want to know why he’s so upset over something so trivial, but of course, the moment you bring it up, he’s immediately defensive.

“I don’t need you psychoanalyzing me,” Rollo snaps, his voice sharp as he crosses his arms. “I’m fine.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Rollo, you look like I’ve personally betrayed you by canceling a study session.”

And just like that, he launches into a tirade about how he’s not mad, he just doesn’t appreciate people dismissing his feelings, and maybe you shouldn’t be taking this whole experiment so lightly. Normally, you’d be ready to bite back with a snarky comment—because, hello, it’s one study session—but something stops you.

Instead of fighting fire with fire, you let him rant. You sit there, quietly absorbing his words, your expression calm, even though internally, your temper is flickering. After he’s done, his words hanging heavy in the air, you take a deep breath.

“I’m not trying to psychoanalyze you,” you say softly. “I just… I want to understand.”

And that’s when you see it—his defenses waver, just for a second. He stares at you like he’s trying to figure out if you’re genuinely concerned or just playing mind games. Slowly, that rigid posture of his deflates, and he lets out a long, weary sigh.

He starts talking. About his brother, the trauma, the way he’s carried that weight for years. His words are raw, and as he speaks, you feel your heart twist in your chest. You’re not sure when it happens, but at some point, you find yourself holding him, your arms around him as he finally lets himself be vulnerable.

It’s then that you realize, in the middle of all this emotional chaos, that you’ve fallen for him. Hard.

After a while, when the room has grown quiet and he’s calmed down, you pull away gently, but not too far. “I’ll make us some tea,” you say, your voice soft.

Rollo doesn’t protest. He just nods, sitting there, still processing everything he’s just shared with you. You head to the kitchen, your mind whirling, but your hands working on autopilot as you boil water and prepare two mugs.

When you return, you set the tea down in front of him and take a seat across from him. The air between you feels different now—softer, more open. For a moment, you both just sip your tea in silence, letting the warmth of the moment settle in.

But then, without really thinking, you reach across the table and take his hand. Rollo looks up, slightly startled, his eyes meeting yours.

“I just want you to know,” you say, your voice quiet but firm, “that I’m not doing this just for the experiment anymore. I like you, Rollo. I know this was supposed to be temporary, but… I don’t want it to be.”

He blinks, taken aback, and for a moment, he’s too stunned to speak. His grip tightens around your hand, though, his thumb brushing lightly over your skin. There’s a soft blush creeping up his cheeks, but more than that, there’s an overwhelming sense of relief in his expression, like he’s been waiting to hear those words all along.

“I… uh, I like you too,” he mutters, awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck. “If that… wasn’t obvious.”

You laugh, because of course you do, and before either of you can second-guess yourselves, you kiss him. It’s soft at first, tentative, but it deepens, the tension from earlier dissolving in the warmth of the moment.

Fast forward to the next day, and you two have a midterm check-in with the professor. You’re supposed to give him an update on how the experiment is going, but the moment you and Rollo walk into his office, looking all soft and lovesick, the professor just knows.

He peers at the two of you over the top of his glasses, takes in the way Rollo hovers near you like a protective shadow, and how you’re practically glowing. He doesn’t even bother asking any questions. He just nods, like he’s solved the world’s greatest mystery.

“Full marks,” he says, scribbling on his grading sheet. “I don’t need to hear a report. Just… submit a written one later. Excellent work.”

He’s smiling like a man who’s just unlocked the secrets of the universe, and you and Rollo exchange a look—half amused, half relieved. You walk out of there, knowing that somehow, this ridiculous relationship experiment has turned into something real.

By the end of the semester, you’ve somehow transformed from a procrastinating, caffeine-fueled mess into a finely tuned academic machine. Rollo’s influence on you has been nothing short of miraculous. You’re actually doing your readings ahead of time, submitting papers early, and your stress levels have dropped to the point where you don’t even twitch when the word “deadline” is mentioned.

Conversely, Rollo looks a lot less like he’s one passive-aggressive email away from an aneurysm. Your laid-back attitude has rubbed off on him just enough that he’s no longer muttering about society’s collapse over breakfast. A win-win, honestly.

And now, here you are. The final stretch. Tomorrow is your big joint presentation in front of the psychology class. After that, you’ll be free to go back to your regular dorms, and all this could be just a memory.

But you’re not worried. Why would you be? You confessed your feelings to Rollo weeks ago. He confessed back. Clearly, you’re in a relationship now. Right?

Oh, you sweet, naive fool.

The morning of the presentation, you and Rollo arrive at class, fully prepared to crush it. Everything goes smoothly, and by the time the professor finishes grading you, he’s practically buzzing with excitement. He’s so impressed with your development as a couple that he actually suggests the two of you join his extended study on attachment styles.

“Uh, no thanks,” you say, waving your hand like you’ve just been offered a ride on the Titanic. “I’ve seen enough of my own emotional baggage this semester to last a lifetime. I don’t need a sequel.”

The professor blinks, clearly not expecting you to decline with such flair, but he chuckles and lets it go. “Very well. Full marks, both of you.”

You and Rollo exchange satisfied glances. You’ve done it. It’s over. But as you walk back to your shared dorm for what might be the last time, you notice Rollo’s usual calm demeanor has slipped into something… different. He looks serious.

You figure it’s just post-presentation exhaustion, so when you get home, you flop onto the couch and playfully tug him down to join you. “C’mon, what’s up? We aced the project. You should be celebrating with me!”

Rollo doesn’t flop. He sits—very stiffly, very deliberately—beside you, eyes focused like he’s gearing up for a serious talk. “I need to ask you something.”

You grin, all relaxed and oblivious. “Shoot.”

He takes a deep breath. “What… what exactly are we?”

Oh no. Your brain blue screens. You can hear the windows error noise in your head as everything you thought you knew crashes and burns.

"EXCUSE ME?" you shout, staring at him like he’s just asked if the Earth is flat.

He looks a little startled, but he holds firm. “I mean… I know we’ve been spending a lot of time together. And we’ve shared things. But I don’t think we’ve ever really—”

You grab him by the shoulders, full-on shaking him like a soda can. “I LIKE you, Rollo! I confessed! You confessed! We’ve been cuddling and everything! I thought we were DATING!”

Rollo is frozen, staring at you with the wide-eyed expression of a man who’s just been struck by a bolt of lightning. His mouth opens and closes, but no words come out. You, still gripping his shoulders, feel your energy drain all at once. You stop shaking him and just sit there, both of you dumbfounded, staring at each other in complete silence.

Then, without warning, you burst out laughing—so hard that you actually tip off the couch and crash onto the floor, gasping for breath.

Rollo blinks down at you. “Are you… okay?”

Through your hysterics, you wave off his concern, already rummaging through your pocket. “Wait, wait, wait—hold on.”

Still lying on the floor, you pull out a ring pop from your pocket. With dramatic flair, you drop down onto one knee in front of the couch. Rollo’s eyes widen even more as you present the candy ring to him, grinning like an absolute maniac.

“Rollo Flamme,” you begin, in the most theatrical voice you can muster, “will you do me the honor of being my partner? Romantically. And in crime.”

Rollo looks at you, at the ring pop, back at you… and then lets out the longest sigh you’ve ever heard. “You’re impossible.”

You just smile up at him, unbothered. “You love me anyway.”

He pauses, still clearly baffled by your entire existence, but there’s a soft smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah… I guess I do.”

He takes the ring pop, slides it onto his finger with an amused shake of his head, then leans down to give you a quick, sweet kiss. You bask in the victory of it all, still half on the floor, but your heart is soaring.

“Now, can we please cuddle on the couch like normal people?” you ask, hopping back onto the cushions, dragging him down with you.

Rollo, ever the good sport (and clearly exasperated), finally gives in, pulling you into his arms as the two of you settle into the couch. You both stay like that for the rest of the afternoon, the weight of the semester’s insanity finally lifting as you enjoy the most peaceful—and weirdly victorious—cuddle of your life.

Masterlist

this was actually inspired by this absolutely insane (and probably unethical) study i was a part of during a psych elective. we had to take a compatibility test and the worst compatible pairs had to pair up for the rest of the semester. it was hell on earth.

#twst x reader #twisted wonderland #twisted wonderland x reader #twst #rollo flamme x reader #rollo x reader #twst rollo #rollo flamme #rollo #twst rollo x reader #rollo x you #rollo flamme x you #twst rollo x you #Rollo week!

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obessedwithfictionalmen · 1 year ago

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You want my jacket?

John Egan X W.A.C! Reader

Summary: Y/n wants Bucky's jacket, but they have a little competition before...

Warning: Swearing/ sport inaccuracies (Wikipedia stats)/ use of Y/n/ flirting/ mention of erection/ kiss/ sexism (little bit)

Word count: 1.1k

The music was loud, Y/n and her friends made their way through the room, it was a party in their honor, and someone’s 25th mission. The W.A.C division Y/n was in just got transferred to Thorpe Abbotts. Y/n was a weather broadcaster, she was going to brief the men on the conditions they were going to fly. She liked her job, sure it was boring sometimes, but she got the insight on big mission and her job was important. She felt like she was truly having an impact on the war, not a big one, but still.

When John Egan learned that W.A.C were coming on the base, he was like every man on the base; excited. Unlike Buck, he didn’t have anyone to write to at home, he was single and loved woman! When his eyes stopped on Y/n, he knew that he needed to talk to her. Her uniform fitted her so good; her curves were highlighted, and he always loved woman with curves. So, when he walked up to her, he was a little nervous, but he tried to hide it.

‘’Hello ladies’’ he said, looking at all the woman, then he looked at the one he wanted. ‘’Hi, I’m Major John Egan, but please call me Bucky, what’s your name, gorgeous?’’ he flirted. Y/n blushed and hid a giggle. ‘’I’m Y/n, nice to meet you’’ she extends her hand for him to take. The other girls were a giggling mess. When Bucky took her hand, she felt something pass through them, maybe she was just nervous, but it felt weird. They went to sit at a table and Bucky ordered drinks. ‘’So, Y/n, what are you doing here?’’ he asked, looking at her. ‘’I’m the new weather broadcaster, so we’re going to see each other a lot’’ she flirted. Words of his reputation had got to Y/n’s ears, when the Colonel briefed them on the attitude of the men at the base, the woman were warned about Major Egan. Y/n was curious to see if his reputation was true. ‘’You’ll be Miss Sunshine?’’ he asked, with a grin on his face. ‘’Exactly, but with this English weather, I’ll be Miss Cloud, Rain and Fog’’ she joked. He laughed at her joke, he always thought English weather was shit. ‘’Maybe your presence will bring more sun over the base’’ he took a sip of his drink. Y/n tilted her head, before taking a sip of her drink.

‘’I highly doubt that, but hey I’ll probably die of cold, you on the other hand, you’re going to be okay with that beautiful jacket’’ she smiled. He looked at his jacket, then looked at her. ‘’You like my jacket?’’ he asked, with a crooked eyebrow. She nodded as she finished her drink. ‘’Yeah, they didn’t give us any jacket, they didn’t have the money for us’’ she chuckles. A wicked idea came to her mind, she was a fan of baseball, so was he… ‘’Okay, what about a quiz, on the subject of your choice, if I win, I get your jacket, if you win, what do you want if you win?’’ she says. ‘’I want a kiss’’ he grins. ‘’Then if you win, you’ll get your kiss. You in?’’ she asked. He nodded and called Curt, he was a fan of baseball and knew the Yankees. ‘’I’m on, and by the way, I hope your baseball knowledge is good, you know the Yankees, sunshine?’’ he teased. He was 100% sure he was going to win; nobody knew baseball as good as him, but that’s what he thought. Y/n was grinning like a devil, she was getting that jacket!

‘’Ok, last question since you’re both equal in points, Spud Chandler broke the record for what this season?’’ Curt asked. Y/n thought for a second and then took the apple, it was their buzzer. ‘’Y/n?’’ the room went silent; money was changing hands around the bar. Their little competition was the main entertainement right now, soldiers couldn’t believe that someone knew baseball better than Bucky. ‘’ Lowest earned run average in a season’’ she said, smiling. Curt pushed his tongue on his cheek before looking at other guys. ‘’That’s right, you officially win!’’ He exclaimed, making the woman and some guy’s cheer for her. Bucky’s jaw was on the floor, that woman knew baseball, was supporting the Yankees and she just beat him. Now he had to give her his jacket! Bucky looked at the woman, she was smiling proudly. He smiled as he shook his head. He went closer to her. ‘’Let’s get out of here, sunshine’’ he said, she nodded, and they went outside.

‘’How come you know that much about baseball?’’ he asked. They started to walk around the base. ‘’Weather girl wasn’t my original plan, I wanted to be a sport reporter, but because I’m a woman, it’s impossible, but I know a lot about sports’’ she explained. He thought he was dreaming; this woman was surreal. ‘’That was really impressive, even though you beat me, it was amazing’’ he said, he truly meant it, he was in awe before her. ‘’Thank you, but I think you owe me something’’ she grins. Bucky rolls his eyes before taking his precious jacket off. ‘’Take care of it’’ he said, before giving it to her. ‘’Can you help me put it on?’’ she asked. Her back was facing him, he helped her put the jacket on, smelling her perfume properly for the first time. She smelled good, too good, it was going to be stuck in his mind now. Seeing her in his jacket kina turned him on, he didn’t know why, but it was a problem. ‘’Thank you, Major’’ she smiled proudly. ‘’I wish I could say it's my pleasure, but that would be a lie’’ he said, laughing to hide his pain. Y/n giggled as they continued their walk.

‘’That’s me, I have to go to bed early. I’m waking up at 0500 tomorrow I have to do my job’’ she smiles. Bucky nods quickly, expecting her to walk to her building, but she stays in front of him. ‘’Since we were equal, it’s only fair that you get your part of the bet’’ she says. Before he could process what she meant she quickly kiss him on the lips. By the time he acknowledges what just happened, she’s already at the door. ‘’Good night, Bucky, thanks for the jacket’’ she says, his name sounding like a prayer on her lips. ‘’Good night sunshine’’ he said. She blew him a kiss before entering the building, with his jacket on her. Yep, his problem was definitely growing more…

#callum turner #callum turner x reader #callum turner imagine #master of the air #john egan x reader #master of the air imagine #major john egan #john egan

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jayjay-thejet-plane · 1 year ago

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AND THEN THEY KISS

Coloured it! :D

[based off the prompt “homework help” given on wincest wednesday]

Transcription for your reading pleasure:

Page 1

D: Sammyyy get your nose out of those nerd books and pay attention to meeeee

S: The longer you distract me, the longer i'll have to study, so either quiz me or shit up jerk

D: Fine, bitch Hand me those cards

Page 2

D: Alright! What is the balance between forward and reverse processes that occur simultaneously? (I don't remember learning this...)

S: (That's because you didnt finish high school) That's dynamic equilibrium

D: Correct! Great job, time for a reward :D

S: What? No, Dean, I can't take a break after ev- What are you doing?

D: Giving you your reward <3

#had a lot of fun with them funky colours #jaydraws #wincest #also wrote out and sketched some not tumblr friendly thoughts that happen after this😎#i will perhaps share them sometime #samdean #sam is 18 in gr 12 here but still #sam x dean #weecest #wincest fanart #samdean fanart #spn fanart #supernatural fanart

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minminbunny · 9 months ago

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Academic Rivals AU - Lee Felix/Gender Neutral! Reader

💕Drabble Masterlist

❤️Ultimate Masterlist

"How much did you score this time, class pres'?" You asked, crossing your arms. Felix leaned back into his seat, "Baek," he said, showing his perfect hundred per cent score. You bit back a smug smirk, "That's great. I got Baek-," you said before Felix cut you off saying, "Oh, so we're even," he said, smirking at you. "As I was saying, I got Baek Sip," you said, showing him the extra plus ten on the side of your test. Felix's eyes widened, "How the fuck is that even possible?" he exclaimed, snatching your paper to compare your answers with his. You chuckled at him, "You're not going to find a mist-," you said when he cut you off again. "Ahah! You got this one wrong!" he said, leaping out of his seat and sprinting towards the teacher's lounge. Your blood cold, "Yah! Lee Felix Yongbok!" you screamed, running after him.

"Hey, long time no see," you whispered, your personality dimming after multiple burnouts. Felix furrowed his eyebrows, "So, how's uni doing for you?" he asked, not used to seeing you this drained. "Alright," you whispered, fidgeting with your fingers. Felix scoffed, gently nudging you, "So are your scores still on par with mine?" he asked, his smirk instantly dropping when he saw your lips wobble. "Hey, hey, hey. I was just teasing," he whispered, guilt filling his heart. You tilted your head back, hoping the tears wouldn't fall, "My scores are still above average," you whispered, knowing your CGPA always remained near three.

Felix nodded, "That's good. That's good," he whispered, rubbing the back of his nape. You bit your bottom, not wanting to continue the conversation but at the same time you missed this. You missed bickering with him. You missed out on scoring each other. "Hey, Lix?" you whispered, making eye contact for the first time during the whole conversation. Felix immediately turned his attention towards you, "Yeah? What is it?" he asked, locking eyes with you. "I know this seems sudden but could we do a kangaroo maths quiz? For nostalgia's sake?" you asked, hoping he'd agree. Felix chuckled, smirking at you, "Get ready to get your ass beaten, sweetheart," he said, drawing a subtle giggle from you. "Bring it on, freckles," you said, instantly opening the tab. Felix gasped, "Wait for me!" he chuckled, trying to grab your phone so he could catch up.

NSFW BELOW CUT

"Are you sure about this, sunshine?" Felix asked, rubbing your bare thighs. You nodded, "Of course. I'm going to give you the best head of your life," you said, looking up at him. Felix chuckled, "Oh yeah? You think you can give head better than me?" he teased, rubbing the base of your tummy. You smirked, flipping onto top of him, "Watch and learn, freckles," you said, tugging down his sweats. Felix hissed, the cold air hitting his hot shaft. You licked your lips and rubbed your nose against his frenulum. Felix bit back a groan, his bangs slowly matting on his forehead. You giggled, wrapping your lips around his leaking cockhead. "You think that's enough to make me cum, sweet, ah, heart?" he grits, gripping the sheets. You smirked around his throbbing gland and relaxed your throat. "Fuck, hah!" Felix growled as you took his whole length in one easy swoop. You swallowed around his cock, his pulsing cock head breaching your fluttering esophagus. Felix tugged your hair, "Fuck you," he moaned with a high pitch whimper as he ejaculated prematurely. You drank up every last drop with a smug smile on your lips, "I win," you said, kissing his messy slit. Felix cracked the joints in his neck, "Game on," he growled, manhandling you. "Do your worst, freckles," you chuckled, seeing the competitive rage in his eyes.

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eduquestzone · 3 months ago

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The Power of Microlearning: How Short Quizzes Improve Retention (on Wattpad) https://www.wattpad.com/story/389529791-the-power-of-microlearning-how-short-quizzes?utm_source=web&utm_medium=tumblr&utm_content=share_myworks&wp_uname=eduquestzone Traditional learning methods often involve long lectures and dense study materials, which can overwhelm learners and lead to low retention rates. Microlearning, which delivers content in small, digestible chunks, has emerged as a powerful way to boost knowledge retention. Short quizzes are one of the most effective microlearning tools, reinforcing learning through active recall. EduQuestZone, a gamified eLearning platform, takes microlearning to the next level by offering quiz-based learning with eduCoins, rewarding users for their engagement. This article explores how short quizzes enhance memory retention, improve engagement, and make learning more effective and enjoyable.

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familyvideostevie · 1 year ago

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october twenty-sixth

day twenty-six: remus lupin you’ve been on three dates without a kiss. will today change that? | first kiss, early relationship, fluff | 1k

Three dates and Remus hasn’t kissed you.

Though your friends insist otherwise, you can’t help but wonder if there is something wrong with you.

He’s respectful, they tell you. He’s shy! You want to believe it. He’ll kiss you today.

God, you hope so.

Obviously, you could kiss him, but something in your gut tells you to let him make the move. It’s hard to resist though, as Remus is very kissable. He’s handsome in a way you don’t know how to describe. The scars on his face make him seem a bit severe but it’s cancelled out when you see the soft kindness of his eyes. He looks like someone who would give you directions in the middle of a rainstorm. He fills out his sweaters like they were tailor-made for him and his hands are huge.

And he’s tall, which you’re never opposed to.

And he likes to touch you. This is the main reason you haven’t given up hope on the kiss.

On your first date — a long afternoon of conversation at a coffee shop — he’d put his hand on your back on the way in and out, helped you take your coat off and held it out for you to put back on, and gave you a very lovely hug when you parted ways. On your second date he’d linked arms with you as you walked through a museum and held your hand when it got a little crowded.

He definetly likes you. Right?

Date three finds you at a bookshop. You’ve actually planned to go to a pub quiz down the road but you got the timing wrong and it doesn’t start for an hour, so you’re killing time.

There aren’t that many people milling around the stacks. Remus squeezes your hand and leaves you to browse on his own, which you appreciate. It can be kind of overwhelming to be under his gaze all the time, you’re learning. Maybe it’s just the force of your fancy, which is a bit outrageous after only three dates. You find yourself imagining him in your life — a couples Halloween costume, a fall weekend away, holiday parties and on New Year’s Eve.

Remus just makes it easy. He’s so…lovely.

So how can you get him to kiss you? It’s far too early for mistletoe. The bookstore is instead decorated with leaves and skulls and pumpkins. Maybe you’ll float the idea of a Halloween party, use some liquid courage to kiss him.

“Are you going to get anything?” Remus’s voice snaps you out of your thoughts. He looks at you patiently.

“Oh,” you say. “Not sure, actually.”

He hums. “I think I’m going to grab this.” He holds up a book you’ve heard of but not read. “If it’s good I’ll pass it along to you. You sure I can’t get you anything?”

Of course he’s offering, of course he’s ready and willing to share with you. He’s infuriating. “No,” you say, smiling. “Thank you, though.”

He squeezes your hand. “I’ll be back in a moment.”

True to his word, which you are learning he tends to be, he’s back quickly, grabbing your hand once more and leading you back out into the cool evening. “Is there going to be food at this quiz?” he asks. “I’m peckish.”

“’Course there is,” you say. “I’m not taking you to a pub without food, Remus. I’m not that bad of a date.”

He laughs. It’s quickly becoming one of your favorite sounds. “I’d never think that. I hope you don’t expect us to win, though, because I’m hopeless at these.”

You scoff. “I don’t believe you.” Remus is very smart and very modest about it.

“No, I really am!” he says. “I know useless things only. You’ll have to come to one with me and James and Sirius —” you know them as his best friends based on how he talks about them “— because they get really into it. I know you’ll being them to victory where I always drag them down.”

“You don’t know that I’m good at pub quizzes, Remus.”

His eyes twinkle under the streetlights. “I’ve got a hunch.”

He wants you to meet his friends. The thought warms you.

The light on the crosswalk changes and you stand, hands clasped, waiting.

Fuck it. You’re going to do it. You’re going to kiss him. You take a breath and turn to him, lean in before you can second guess yourself —

Remus turns his head to say something and your foreheads smack together.

“Oh my god,” you say, rearing back. “Oh my god, I’m so —”

“Are you okay?” he asks, hand on his own forehead. “What just happened?”

He releases his grip on your fingers to gently grab the back of your head, tilting your face this way and that as if he’ll find a wound.

You flop your face onto his shoulder. “Please, leave me to die of embarrassment,” you mumble.

“Never,” he says. “Really, darling. Are you alright? Didn’t hit you too hard?” His tenderness is making your stomach do something funny. Darling, darling, darling.

“No, Remus,” you sigh. You pull back to look at him. He really does look concerned, bless him. “I’m fine. I was trying to kiss you.”

“Oh,” he says, looking slightly surprised. “Sorry, I suppose. That’s my fault.”

“Yes,” you grumble. “It is, considering you haven’t kissed me yet, which is why I was trying in the first place.”

Your embarrassment is making you brave.

His eyes light up again. “Do you want me to?” His tone is slightly teasing.

“Remus!” He laughs and cradles your face in his warm hands. This man always has warm hands even when it’s cold out.

“Alright, alright, let’s try this again, hm?”

He leans in slowly. Your eyes flutter shut. When he kisses you it’s a light press of his lips at first and then a firmer pressure as he slots your mouths together properly. You let him do the work and you sigh into it until he pulls away

Your foreheads press together gently this time. “Let’s try to avoid any more injuries, alright?”

You smack his chest. He laughs.

thank you for reading <3 reblog, send feedback, general masterlist here! promptober masterlist, find all fics under #fvspromptober23

#fvspromptober23 #remus lupin x reader #remus lupin x you #remus lupin x y/n #remus lupin fluff #marauders fanfiction

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loquatsloquatsloquats · 20 days ago

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A Truth Truly Unparalleled

A Truthless Recluse & Sage of Truth Hurt/Comfort Fic (Not rly Romatic ShadowVanilla, more Mutual-Pining TruthlessSage. It's Based On Their In-Game Alternate-Universe Costume-Story)

Ao3 Link

“I did not take you as a questionnaire yourself, Sage.”

In the midst of the usual routine of this humble scholar, The Sage of Truth, it had somehow escaped his notice how the sky had darkened once more. He'd just gotten so caught up in giving a little pop-quiz to his last little truth seeker of the day!

Gripping his key-shaped staff, he found himself turning in the same direction he always does. The Truthless Recluse always arrived in same way from the same direction. A leisurely stroll through the worries of the townsfolk, and west. “Apologizes, apologies! Do accept my apologies!” The Sage swore to, twirling his staff at his side. “I was not expecting a visit from you this casual evening.”

The dark-cloaked scoffed, “We are not friends, Sage. And omission is a form of deception.”

“Ohho!” The Sage would emote, summoning a simple cup and latte in his other hand. “What an interesting analysis! Perhaps you'd be up for a discussion on the matter? Hm?” The Sage would pry, a knowing smile appearing on his face. A discussion, in this case, was a stand in for a debate. Which they both knew full well that The Truthless Recluse would avoid.

The other, as expected, averted his eyes from them. Yes, all of them. Even the uncharacteristically erratic ones on his staff found their prying gazes elsewhere. “I have no interest in arguing with you. I just made a statement.”

“Two statements, actually!” The Sage corrected, taking a sip from his newly summoned beverage. “You mentioned how you rarely see me ask questions, and stated your accusation of me avoiding your previous remark as if it were a question!” The Sage would simply speak, taking yet another sip. Jellybean lattes with an extra shot of espresso! Ah! Never gets old!

The Recluse would bring his main two eyes back to The Sage, and The Sage would return his glare with sparkling wonder.

The Sage sipped his latte once more to purposefully create a noise of pondering, maintaining his smile towards the other. “In fact, I've been meaning to ask you, friend; What truth has bothered you so?”

The bluntness of the question seemed to startle The Recluse, and for a moment, The Sage felt an ounce of shame… yet intrigue. So it rattled them, rather than just perturbed. How curious! Then again, it could just be the dramatic topic alteration. He hopes to learn more either way!

Still, The Sage felt the other's glare harden, yet his own persistent smile proved it would not sway his curiosity. “You would not understand, nor will I allow you to try and comprehend. I know your nature well, scholar; this is something beyond you, and you and I both know it.” The Recluse's grip on his staff tightened, all three of it’s eyes now remaining upon The Sage.

“Keeping the truth from I? How thoughtful! A further testament to your own truth! Bravo, applause!” At this point, The Sage of Truth was testing the waters. They both knew all too well. Even as The Truthless Recluse's expression changed to a scowl, that same persistent smile of wonder remained upon The Sage. He would keep testing these limits, he would keep engaging these debates. Until he reaches the answer so secretly kept, or until eternity itself seizes to be.

The Sage chose to float away from his position at the town square, soaring for but a moment before landing gracefully on the pavement, just an arms-length away from whom he truly hoped would be his debate partner of the day. “I, friend, am The Sage of Truth! I can handle whatever reality you bear alone behind your eyes.”

Much to The Truthless Recluse's dismay, The debate had already begun.

The Recluse gave a deep-chested sigh, already deciding he would much rather just get this over with. “No, you cannot.”

Upon the other's reply and correlated acceptance of the debate, The Sage's smile grew to a beaming grin. Finally! A true debate with the one and only Truthless Recluse! Oh- this was guaranteed to be a memory everlasting! One to shape any and all truths inbound!

The Sage's gleaming excitement only served to annoy The Recluse, so he quickly decided it would be best to compose himself before continuing. Yet- it was just so difficult! He had been waiting for the other to finally accept a conversation with him- he'd’ve even accepted an argument if that's what it took! But to fully agree to entertain this humble Sage of Truth with a debate from the one and only!? He could not contain his excitement no matter how much he tried!

“Alright! No backsies then!” He'd exclaim rather quickly to get some of his energy out, giving a quick ahem for a dramatic flair.

By this point, all in the townsquare who'd yet to retreat into their homes from the evening had taken notice of the discussion. All eyes were on them, viewing with either boundless wonder, or endless worry. And yet, as much as The Sage wielded compassion, he could not bring himself to care for the feelings of the townsfolk. Only the dark-cloaked figure in front of him mattered.

The Sage of Truth pulled out all the stops to make sure he didn't squeal in excitement, instead putting on a more consistent pose. Excited, but more composed. Taking the last sip of his latte and returning the cup from whence it came. “Alright, alright. Without telling me then, just what exactly about this truth do you believe I cannot handle? And, if there are multiple ways, we can discuss them one by one. I will do my best to debunk your theories, and you will do your best to dissuade me!” The Sage held out a hand. “To a good debate?”

And… for the first time… The Sage of Truth saw the smile of The Truthless Recluse. A glare still engraved into his eyes, and yet his smile was so much softer… it was like an endless field of milkcrown flowers, watching each and every bloom with a new appreciation for the simplest of life… it was like the gleaming sun in the aftermath of a snowfall, glistening and glittering endlessly upon the untouched white floors… it was like- he was truly- happy!.. Was he? From what? What brought about such a breathtaking expression? Or was it a happy smile at all? Had The Sage been focusing so much upon the other's lips that he'd forgotten to gaze upon their eyes?

He, in his moment of enthrallment, hardly noticed his hand being taken in reply. He just barely caught the next set of words, but thankfully, was able to use them to ground himself. “To a… good debate… to you too?” The Recluse had clearly noticed his enthrallment by now, clearly causing an oddity to his returned sentence.

The Sage would repeat his vocalization of an ahem, “Yes, yes; let us begin!”

“I am The Sage of Truth, I wield knowledge practically unparalleled. I have seen many cruel truths, and beautiful lies. I have witnessed the journey and crumbling of much throughout the ages.” He would state, using his staff to point to himself, then The Recluse.. “I myself bear cruel truths, same as you, what is one more to acquire?” is the question that would complete his beginning portion of the debate. Leaving room for his opponent to bring forth his own remarks and dissuadements.

The Truthless Recluse offered a simple nod to begin his segment, “I have no doubts. But even still; are you a Sage of Truth, or a Sage of Knowledge? You say you bear both Truths and Lies, yet what you define yourself with in action is knowledge at the whims of both.” He began, sharpening his expression to be followed by his next accusation, “If you are a being of knowledge, you can be tampered with; something I would not dare to do. If you are a being of Truth and Deceit, that means you can lie; and thus, I have no reason to trust you with what I know.”

“Astute observation!” He would praise, keeping his gleaming expression clear. “However, your answer is found clearly in my name! The Sage of Truth! My truth is to share the endless reaches of knowledge with the world, or at least all who find themselves curious! I bring with me knowledge, but at heart, I am a being of truth! A Sage of Truth, in fact!” He explained, fidgeting with his staff.

The Recluse, unexpectedly or not, scoffed at his answer. “So you already admit I have no reason to trust you.” He sneered, almost seeming to glare through the scholar. Though, it was clear to them both The Recluse had something more he wanted to say.

Note, they shall hopefully loop back to that!

“Not in this case, no. You speak as if me having the capability to lie is any different than anyone else's. I am The Sage of Truth, how many times must I introduce myself? Tisk, tisk!” He'd sassily remark, giving his staff a twirl much like he'd been doing earlier. “I have the capacity to deceive, but in a scenario like this? Never! I must admit, I can be rather greedy when more knowledge escapes my grasp, especially ones of truth!”

“Surely I, The Sage of Truth's, own excitement to learn must be proof enough I am not lying of my capabilities to bear the information gained?”

“You say that,” The Truthless Recluse began, “yet you contradict yourself. One sentence, you compare yourself to mortals. The next, this revered Sage. Are you no different than these townsfolk, and thus, no greater? or are you a grand being above what any of them can comprehend, and thus, shouldn't be trying to teach them at all?” The Recluse gained an… almost too obvious grimace when referring to The Sage as ‘above comprehension’, further proving to The Sage that whatever Truth The other had gained had truly shaken them, even beyond what The Sage could have hypothesized.

Still, The Truthless Recluse deserves an answer. “I, friend, am both. I hail from a peak so tall and narrow… you know it well-” admittedly surprisingly, caused The Recluse to flinch. And yet, this was an opportunity for The Sage. “-See? And yet you only flinch! The Truthless Recluse, a being supposedly without any truths, personal or fundamental, are handling yet another harsh truth so well!”

“Surely, the same would be true for I, The Sage of Truth?!”

“Stop calling yourself that.”

This… caused The Sage to flinch, breaking whatever tangent they'd gone on, and leaving them to just stare into his opponent's boundless glares. The town was in perpetual silence, no mortals daring to speak in the midst of the following moments.

“I- I beg of your pardon?” He spoke, the metaphor clear yet felt so- odd escaping him. He could not understand. They- they were counterparts! He was of Truth, the other of Absence. What of their titles of all things factored into this state? He needed to know-!

“I will not grant you a pardon, but I will grant you a choice.” The other began, their persistent glare truly piercing through his dough. “Will you bear my Truth upon your shoulders? Or your own Truth upon your mind?”

“Which one do you believe you can withstand?”

Normally, he would have some witty remarks, some declaration of might, a counter of undeniable righteousness. However, this time, he could hardly sound out a syllable. He had so many more questions! Why did the topic change so drastically? Why was The Recluse so determined to end the debate this way? Why did he truly have nothing else to say?

Think logically now- if The Recluse is so open to a debate, even if this short, surely a conversation later is no different? Yes, assume that for now. Now, what truth would be harder to gain? Something he could perhaps one day pry out of his counterpart? Or… something he doesn't know about himself?

Finally, with an answer, he cleared his throat. “Well, well, well! You've diverted my intrigue, friend! Bravo, bravo, I suppose you might've won this particular section of debate. Now… Tell me then, what could I possibly not know about myself? My own truth?” He spoke, his tone originally cheerily pointing… and yet seamlessly flowing into a serious tone usually unseen. He wasn't a joyous bringer of knowledge in his moment, but instead, it's serious receiver.

“Are you certain?” The Recluse questioned thoughtfully, his glare finally softening. “This was my point of no return.”

The added information did nothing to dissuade him. “I am certain.” He had already decided. He needed to know.

The Truthless Recluse would now approach the scholar. Because of The Sage of Truth's previous placements, it only took a few steps for them to be face to face. They then used the hand not holding his staff to reach towards the other's own unused hand… why? Was it an attempt to warn him? His last reminder to back out. Was it an attempt to comfort him? To prepare him for what was about to be said. Or was it a dramatic effect? Something to showcase to him that everything he thought he once knew was about to be tossed away.

Morbid as it may be; he felt suspense, he felt excitement- he felt ready.

He, The Sage of Truth, was not.

“Then, I ask a question. One simple thing for everyone in this village. One so simple that almost anyone in the world can answer. Anyone… except for me and you.”

There was a pause, and the tiniest gleam would appear in The Truthless Recluse's eyes. Concern, worry, doubt… sorrow, shame… guilt.

This was his last chance to back out.

He would not.

“What is your name?”

…silence. Then laughter. Booming, beaming laughter the village knew all too well. Doing nothing to lighten the atmosphere, and yet bringing minor relief regardless. “That's it? That's your grand question? My name? The one I've told you so many times???”

He was cut off, his own hand being forced to cover his mouth by the other. “The Sage of Truth, is a title. Your title, yes, but not a name. What is your name?”

…silence befell the village once again. This time, there was no one who could break it. The Sage of Truth now faced a reality that… really did reshape him for whatever futures would arise.

The Sage of Truth… had no name.

He was nothing more than a truth… there was no person behind his purpose… he was just a wall full of answers, stationed to be read like a book to any whom wander past.

He was The Sage of Truth.

But he was not a person.

The Truthless Recluse let go of his hand… and The Sage fell to the floor. The hand that had been moved over his mouth not moving even an inch.

The Truthless Recluse sat with him. Not side by side, but face to face. Both of their respective staffs lay forgotten at their sides. Amidst the stunned townsfolk, the shock of The Sage, and the eerie apathy of The Recluse, the only sound throughout the square was The Sage's rushed breaths.

The sky darkened further. Whether it was the work of the rising moon, or The Truthless Recluse, none could tell. “How does it feel? To know you are only an archetype? A tool of destiny? A background character of your own life? A robot with only a self-assigned purpose to guide you?”

The Sage had no answer.

“I am sorry.”

As the first tears began to fall from his eyes, somehow, even the expressions of the other's gaze earlier could not have prepared him for… an apology. And yet, with the hand still over his mouth, and a mind racing to find any semblance of him within it, he could not muster up the will to ask.

Thankfully, the other seemed to already plan to show him some mercy. “I know it is hard. I felt it too, once. I am sorry for sharing this truth with you. Our truth. One we can never go back from.”

It was at this point, The Sage was truly given no chance to reply, as the other’s robed arms wrapped around his form and gently tugged him onto their lap. He was being cradled. As silly as it was, as it could've been, The Sage found himself breaking down in the other's arms. His entire world had shattered before a mere question… he found comfort in the darkness of the other's satin attire. What was once just a comically large hat provided shade from the prying light of the evening sun. What was once just an overly dramatic cape became his shielding blanket from the worried gazes of those around. What was once a pointlessly depressing color palette was now a wondrous reminder of an endless night sky full of stars.

And, of course, there was The Truthless Recluse himself. Eyes so usually dark he compared them to shadows, now a boundless beauty he could not pry his own gaze from. Even as his entire face contorted to account for his tears, the other's eyes became his lifeline.

He even still managed to learn more about the other, ironically enough. About how, despite a small breeze, the other's drooping hair never seemed to shift. Only the strand at his eyes seemed to sway. About how, after the other had removed his hat and begun movements through his gleaming hair, he could hardly tell where The Recluse's hands ended and where their sleeves began. The other's hands just as soft as the satin of their clothes, contrasting so much with his usual demeanor. About how, as one could imagine with so many layers of smooth fabric, just laying there felt like resting upon the coziest bed in the world.

One question emerged. How could someone usually so cold and distant be so- delicate? Precise? Caring?

Perfect?

And yet, it all just made him cry harder.

His entire existence, a self-assigned duty he just decided to fulfill. His truth. Was it really his? It had to be! He decided to do this! But then… who was he? The Sage of Truth is just what everyone calls him. A title both publicly and personally assigned, but not a name. It was an identifier, but not an identity-

The Truthless Recluse… was this what they'd felt? It can't be-... who were they before The Truthless Recluse? Was he, too, just a title? Or did he have a name? Was his own truth to stop others from reaching The Peak of Truth self assigned, or discovered to be his intended purpose that he'd originally strayed from? Just who were they, The Truthless Recluse?

…Just who was he, The Sage of Truth?

“Friend.”

The Sage, against all emotion, perked up at that one word. Conscious attention returning to where his gaze had remained. Eyes meeting eyes. Friend. So he finally called him a friend…

The Truthless Recluse would bring both hands to his face, using their thumbs to carefully pry falling tears away from his eyes and sweep them away. Their gaze no longer had a harsh glare like it did before, but something so much softer, kind even. Just as The Sage seemed awestruck by this newfound gentleness from the other, The Recluse seemed to stare at him in waiting, waiting for a response to make it clear The Sage was ready for conversation again.

The Sage would only offer a nod for the other to begin.

The other would accept this.

“Dearest Sage, I hold no animosity with these next words, and I beg of you not to take them that way.” The Truthless Recluse worded carefully, ever so quiet in his volume, ever so gentle in his words, ever so soft in his voice… The Sage could not help but just- melt in the other's arms and listen in. “Your title is The Sage of Truth. As much as my own purpose detests it, I would not dare take that title away from you by force. The same way, as much as you continue to offer your debates, you would not dare to alter my own.”

“Your title can be just as useful as a name, but it will never be the same as one. My dearest counterpart… you have three options. Listen closely.”

“Your first option; Continue Onwards. Today never happened. You are The Sage of Truth, no more, no less. It is an average evening, and your lectures of the day have just concluded.” The Truthless Recluse would begin to list. The Sage couldn't help but grimace. As much as it was an okay option, it was neither ideal, nor feasible now. The Sage of Truth knew too much to go back.

The other seemed to understand, and moved on. “Your second option, most likely unwanted, but still available; Forsake Your Truth. Begin anew. Discard your title, and create a name. Stop teaching knowledge, and find a new purpose.” The Sage of Truth truly hated that option, if the first he merely brushed away, this second was met with distain. He could not abandon all his little truth seekers! He would not abandon all his wondrous scholars to be! He shall not abandon himself.

“The third,” The Truthless Recluse began without warning. “is to Follow Me.”

“...Follow you?”

“Follow me back to the peak. I shall not share any more truths with you, if you desire to learn, you must discover them on your own. Manage your time as an ever-learning ever-teaching Sage of Truth. And… a normal individual, same as anyone else, just trying to find themself and their place in the world. One to be created however you see fit.”

“Sage of Truth, I informally invite you back to your origin place.”

…

The day ended, the same as any other. And the next one began… The Sage of Truth was nowhere to be found.

#not really shadowvanilla as it's for their costume-story rather than canon-them; but i'll tag it anyways #shadowvanilla #truthlessage #shadow milk cookie #pure vanilla cookie #cookie run #cookie run kingdom #crk #sage of truth #truthless recluse

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