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sunmoontruth-stiles · 4 years ago

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Ok this is gonna be long. I’ve literally been slowly working on this for… too long. I’m just in a mood to have a long discussion about ships. I’ll be looking at canon and not, so bare with me. I don’t ship all of these personally. I’m mostly just picking the most popular ones. I chose to leave out a few that I just don’t want to talk about. I tried to keep this loosely chronological, but that quickly went to hell. None of this is meant to be hate towards anyone’s ship, just my personal opinions on each of them.

Canon:

Scott x Allison: True Classic

Scallison is so sweet as it is truly the epitome of young love. Romeo and Juliet, except Romeo is even more of an idiot and Juliet is a badass who dies for a cause. They’re moral and ethical codes are both highly valued by themselves, even if they don’t align with others very often. They loved with everything they had. They were beautiful. We’re they soulmates in the end, or just the first love who will always hold a special place in your heart? Who knows, but I’ll always love these immature kids who thought their love could change everything.

Stiles x Lydia: The Long Awaited

Stydia is as slow burn as you can get. Unfortunately their actual getting together was slightly rushed in my opinion. They didn’t have time to find their own as a couple because Stiles just wasn’t in the show enough at that point. I know the reasons behind it, but it did leave this couple at an awkward stage of official-but-not-shown. The idea that Stiles loved her as a kid, immature and infatuated, and he saw her for who she really was, will always be cute. Then they grew, changed, became friends, and found other people. Them finding each other later on, having real love that’s developed slowly, is a wonderful arc. Though, a part of me will always believe they should have pursued other story lines in the wake of Stiles’ absence from the plot. They’re finally together! …but we don’t get to see it.

Jackson x Lydia: The Image

Oh Jackson and Lydia. Honestly, I love them. Their connection at a time in their lives when they couldn’t open up to anyone else, just hits me right in the feels. I mean, god that HUG. You know the one. Always brings me to tears. I’m so sad their relationship was almost entirely depicted during Jackson’s kanima time when he couldn’t think nor truly act for himself. Those small moments of scared vulnerability when he wanted to protect her from himself… I’ll miss these two. They deserved to find other people and remain life-long friends. I loved their moment in the last episode. I wish they’d gotten to see each other grow. Also they had such bixbi solidarity vibes, and I’ll die on that hill.

Scott x Lydia: Leaders

Ok, I’m gonna be honest here. I ship it. The power couple they would have been?? Also them coming together after they lost Allison would have actually made sense. A part of me kinda wishes the writers had moved on from Stydia as a romantic relationship and leaned into them growing as friends and Stiles moving on from his childhood crush. Scott and Lydia actually would have had good chemistry. They were both very headstrong heroic types, but Lydia would have balanced Scott out well intellectually. They had the history, and I think it could had worked if they wrote it right. Plus, Scott and Lydia would have been a better endgame that Scalia.

Scott x Kira: New Beginnings

These two were adorable. Kira was a badass, don’t get me wrong, but she let herself be soft in a way Allison was always afraid to. This couple was truly Baby. Absolute dorks. I can definitely see the lasting quality between the two of them. They saw things very similarly, and had a ton in common. I do think Kira deserves more characterization outside of their relationship, like more of her friendship with Malia. Overall, her departure from the show will always be sad to me. It was bad writing. Scott was over her far too quickly.

Aiden x Lydia: Pretty People Herd

I honestly didn’t see much between these two other than mutual attraction. The best thing to come out of this relationship was Lydia’s line, “You’re not just a bad boy, Aiden. You’re a bad guy. And I don’t want to be with the bad guys.” Good character development moment.

Ethan x Danny: Step to Redemption

Danny really was the thing that made Ethan look outside of the pack for what he really wanted out of life. They had a few cute scenes. Gotta love Danny’s final remarks, “Dude, it’s Beacon Hills.”

Allison x Isaac: Unexpected Rebound

Ok, I like these two. Isaac could match Allison’s snark in a way Scott couldn’t. They both fought the progression of the relationship slightly. They didn’t expect to fall for each other. They were less willing to let someone in close. I’d love to have seen more… but unfortunately their time was limited. On a side note, sometimes their relationship did feel like ‘we both are in love with the same guy, let’s cope with each other’, but I find that completely valid. I’ll talk about Scallisaac later though.

Stiles x Malia: Anchors

Ok but, them <3 I love what they did for each other. Stiles was able to help Malia connect to her humanity and other people. He never tried to isolate her in their relationship and encouraged her growth. Malia offered Stiles the emotional support he never asked for. She defended him, fought for him, and loved him fiercely. Stiles needed that so much after season 3. I think they were a love that wasn’t meant to last, but the impact of it was forever. I wish we’d gotten to see a real end for them where they agreed that they needed to grow as individuals but would always still care.

Liam x Hayden: Three’s a Pattern

These two’s characterization stopped whenever they had storylines together. Their relationship was built on Scallison references. Hayden’s character could have been interesting, but they never really gave her a moment to shine. Liam has the worst plots when they revolved around her. Cute couple, poor writing.

Derek x Braeden: Gaslight, Gatekeep, Girl Boss

Derek deserves to be happy so much. Kate and Jennifer were just... jeez. Him and Braeden were cute and deserved more screen time. I think her intensity allowed for Derek to let go of control a bit more comfortably. Let Derek Be Soft. Anyway, love them.

Corey x Mason: Gotta Have That Rep TM

These two could have been cute if they were shown for more than two seconds at a time. I highkey forget Corey even existed all the time. Kinda just felt like a relationship to fill TW’s gay quota.

Jackson x Ethan: The Callback

Honestly? Loved them. Loved the chemistry. Loved the dynamic. Best twist. I know it was probably written in like that because Colton came out during his time away from the show, but it absolutely fit his character. Jethan is top tier.

Melissa x Chris: BAMF Parent Duo

Ok, so like, Melissa deserved this plot. She deserved someone to care about her. However... what the hell? Chris? In canon, his wife died like 2-ish years prior? His daughter died 1 year prior?? Is Chris really in a position to pursue a new relationship?? Also, like, Scott and Allison dated and loved each other up to her death. Kinda weird to have their parents hook up. I don’t hate it, but I don’t ship it…?

Scott x Malia: Lead up? What’s lead up?

These two came out of nowhere I stg. Like, 6B really tried to tell us this was something that had been slowly developing in the background? Also, I understand that they are their own people, adults, and completely in charge of their own romantic pursuits: but did Scott seriously never call Stiles? Like, Malia wasn’t just his first girlfriend. She was his first. Like, dude that’s your best friend?? Not even a head’s up? No, ‘hey would this bother you?’ Oof. Plus Malia was way too chaotic for Scott. She existed in gray morality that always prioritized her immediate circle, and Scott was a very black/white type of heroism. I just didn’t feel like they fit.

Non-Canon:

Scott x Stiles: Childhood Best Friends

Ya, sorry, I don’t ship Sciles at all. I get it. Like, I totally understand the ship, and I mean no judgment at all. I just see them as friends. I really value good male friendships in media because I feel like we don’t get enough, and I always liked these two.

Stiles x Derek: Enemies to Lovers. 100k. Angst. Hurt/Comfort.

God these two really are what fanfiction was made for. I could write a much longer discussion about Sterek, and I probably will eventually. I’ll try to keep this brief. These two weren’t always on the same side, but their approach was the same. They were very similar at their core. Plus, wow the chemistry. This should have been canon. Jeff’s a coward.

Allison x Lydia: Powerful.

This ship is so great. They really had a great dynamic, and a romantic plot would have easily fit the established narrative. Lydia’s confidence in herself and Allison’s confidence in her own abilities crossing over to each other because that’s what the other lacked? Iconic.

Danny x Jackson: He Gets Him

Danny really saw Jackson for everything he was and still cared. I wished we’d gotten to see more of them. I want more background with Jackson’s eventual coming out and his friendship with Danny. Like, they ended up dating the same guy. What did Ethan have to say about that??

Stiles x Jackson: Bastards

Ok these two had a super fun dynamic. The asshole-energy between them was, great. The snark was always so entertaining.

Melissa x Noah: Family

How were these two not endgame? Their sons were practically brothers already. They had amazing chemistry. The flirting? Not to mention, their timeline would have made way more sense. Missed opportunity.

Chris x Peter: The Opposite of Love is Indifference, Not Hate

Ok so like, this was definitely one of those ships that I had absolutely no knowledge of before I was pretty into the fandom. Like, this was not something I would have guessed just after watching the show. That being said; my god the chaos alone…

Scott x Isaac: The Disaster Duo

Okay ya I love these two. Two dumb asses who act like idiot puppies. Such a fun dynamic. Plus?? Chemistry??? Hellooo

Scott x Allison x Isaac: Three Heads Are Better Than One

This ship is definitely one of my personal favorites. I very rarely poly-ship. I just feel like most of them are just love triangles with an ‘easy solution’, when two of them have no real connection. That is so not the case here. I feel like all of them have such great chemistry with each other. They also have a great dynamic as a group. Season 3A was really just Scallisaac rights.

Stiles x Isaac: I Hate You, jk…Not Really

Ok I loved their banter, but I really just don’t see this ship. Idk, I don’t personally ship it. Would have loved to see their friendship develop more tho.

Erica x Allison: Duo that would stab you with a stiletto

I don’t ship it, but I do wish we’d seen them become friends. I feel like they had a very artificial ‘girls fighting over a boy’ dynamic? They could have been such a badass duo.

Stiles x Erica: Batman x Catwoman

Ok I’m not sure exactly how to express my feelings for these two so bare with me. OMG I love their dynamic so much, and they are sooo cute. Their energy? Amazing. Chemistry? Great. History? It’s there and has so much potential. 10/10. Love them. But, no, I don’t ship it lol. Just really love their friendship, but with the underlying history of crushes.

Boyd x Erica: Was This Not Canon?

How can anyone not love Berica? Ugh they are adorable. These two deserved so much better.

Boyd x Cora: Survivors

Honestly I don’t really see it? Like they definitely had a connection, but it never felt romantic. I really feel like they just had to lean on each other and bond to make it through captivity, and it just lasted.

Boyd x Erica x Cora: The Pack

I literally learned this was a ship a couple days ago. Similar feelings towards this as Bora, but with the added hesitancy of we never actually saw Erica and Cora interact.

Cora x Stiles: Slow Build Up

These two were clearing being lined up to be a thing before Cora ended up leaving. I can’t say I’m disappointed they never happened. Kinda felt like they just wanted to straight-code Sterek.

Cora x Lydia: Mean Lesbians

Not much interaction to actually go off of, but yes I 100% support. They have very different approaches to problems, which is fun. Very ‘opposites attract’.

Malia x Kira: “Maybe you could date the coyote?”

Another one of my favorites!! They really complimented each other. Also, how full circle would they have been? They were introduced in back-to-back episodes. Malia stalking her as a coyote? The line from Kira’s dad about dating it? It would have been so funny if that ended up happening.

Malia x Lydia: Beauty and the Beast, but make it wlw

These two were fun. I liked their friendship, but I don’t really ship it. Though, rip Stiles that would have been hilarious.

Parrish x Lydia: The Cop and The Minor

Must I say more? Like, Parrish’s character, so sweet and big rule follower, did not make sense for what went down with Lydia. I love Parrish, but the dynamic just felt off. It didn’t feel consistent with the rest of his characterization.

Parrish x Stiles: The Cop and The Minor, but gay?

Ok, same reasoning as above, but also they had absolutely no connection romantically.

Scott x Theo / Stiles x Theo: Sometimes The Villain is Hot

Ok I’ve put these together because I have the same opinion for both. I don’t ship it. Neither had any rebuilding of trust, and Theo really hurt both of them. I just don’t really think they work.

Mason x Liam: Sciles Puppy Pack Edition

Similar to my feeling about Sciles, I just don’t ship these two. They had a good friendship, from the little we saw of it.

Theo x Liam: Anchors 2: Electric Boogaloo

Another personal favorite! I really don’t even understand why this didn’t go canon?? The elevator scene was just, so intense. They helped each other grow in 6B, and I really loved their dynamic. They should have hooked up.

Honorable Mention?:

Parrish x Laura: What’s canon?

I’ve seen this in fanfic a lot, and I actually really like it lol. I thought I’d add it in here because I do love the creativity of fandoms.

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uponrightful · 3 years ago

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F: Share a snippet from one of your favourite dialogue scenes you've written and explain why you're proud of it.

✨Fanfic Ask Game✨

(sorry this is long, but I know you won't mind too much)

Excerpt From: "Welcome Company" Part 2

The girl poured a fresh cup of caf, smiling at the buzzed, blonde sitting sleepily across the bar from her. Rex had made a surprise visit, more than a week ahead of schedule with more than enough stories to keep her busy and listening for a full weekend. It was one of her favorite things, to sit and sip caf while hearing about the -less gruesome- details of her trooper’s missions.

“-It was hell back there, but at least Anakin didn’t need reinforcements like last time.” Rex shook his head in slight frustration.

A this point she knew about all of the Generals, and almost knew all the clones by name. Of course many had come to see her, but putting names to faces wasn’t always easy. She found that putting names to tattoos and personalities was easiest.

As long as they show their personality.

“I’m glad you survived the Generals antics. Otherwise I wouldn’t get my updates so willingly.” She couldn’t help but giggle at the thought of asking Cody to talk about things so willingly. Of course Fives would be willing, but the quality of information was a whole other battle to fight.

“I’ll always come back, as long as you’ve got hot caf on drip.” Rex chuckled, taking a hearty drink from his mug. “I heard through the barracks that you played host to a new guest?”

She smiled almost absentmindedly, looking towards the rocking chair that had sat absent since Commander Wolffe’s overnight stay two weeks ago. “Yes, I did.”

“Angry bastard, isn’t he?” He commented with a light jeer, readjusting himself on the barstool he sat on.

I need to get bigger ones… they’re all too small for the boys.

“I don’t know what to think of him just yet.” She mused, tracing her finger around the lips of her mug, letting the steam coat her fingertips in a dewy sheen. “We didn’t particularly meet.” The look on Rex’s face changed with the drop of a hat, causing her to almost stutter in the attempt to rephrase herself. Whatever he’d heard, apparently didn’t meet up with her divulged information.

“I- I mean we didn’t speak.” She tried her best not to let her anxiety show, but that dreadful stutter had reared its ugly head. “I us-used signs to help him through the house.”

“You wrote out signs?” Rex parroted her with an incredulous expression, seemingly trying to piece together an image of what her nights must’ve looked like hiding from Wolffe and creeping down hallways without him catching sight of her. “Let me see them.”

She nodded timidly, still trying to gain back her confidence after realizing that Rex wasn’t actually mad. In one of the least-squeaky cabinets under the sink, she retrieved one of the black signs, and the chalk that she used to write the signs. Sliding them across the island, her gaze focused on Rex’s softening expression. Her remaining anxiety was slowly dissipating.

“You’re a special kind of patient, you know that?” Rex ran his finger over the white chalk, looking up at her under thick, dark eyelashes.

“He just seemed like the type who would want a different kind of love.” She shrugged her shoulders, feeling her face heat with embarrassment. It was easy to watch from behind the corners of her house, and enjoy to unguarded expressions of her warriors. But hearing any praise directly to her face was almost pure torture.

“All I’ve heard is when the Commander stepped back on base he looked like a brand new man. Even Cody was talking about how Wolffe’s armor looked better than the day he got it re-painted.” Rex paused to take another slug of his caf. “I haven’t seen the Commander… but I’m sure you gave him a kriffing good polish didn’t you?” He chuckled again, taking another hard look at the sign sitting in front of him. “I imagine the poor sap was standing up straighter than a rod with all the attention he got from you.”

“His were particularly rough… but nothing a little elbow grease couldn’t fix.” She retrieved the signs and put it back it it’s place under the sink. “I did use a little epoxy to fill In some particularly deep scratches.”

Rex gave her a wide smile and motioned for her to come over with an arm stretched out. She obliged, and placed herself within arm’s reach so he could pull her into a tight hug. He settled his chin on top of her head, giving a few quick squeezes just to explain all the things she knew Rex couldn’t say. For all the things the Captain could say, the girl knew that many of her boys were unable to speak though many of the things they felt. Instead, they liked touch.

At first, she’d been quite unwilling to oblige them. Feeling much too insignificant to be anyone that deserved any real attention from such important men. But after almost two years, hugs and the occasional request for head scratches or a haircut had become almost essential to her services. Even Rex hadn’t been keen on physical attention towards anyone but his brothers, however that changed after a few terrible nights spent way too late at 79’s. A particularly bloody battle left him beaten and bruised in more ways than one. And instead of coming straight to her, he’d found the door to 79’s and the bottom of a bottle of fire whiskey first. Two days of close attention and a true moment of vulnerability later, Rex became more than a regular. He practically cornered his own room at her house, where she was almost always on call for late-night or early-morning planet-side landings.

“You want him to come back don’t you?” Rex’s voice sounded muffled in her hair.

“I don’t want anything. You know that Rex.” He hugged her tighter with both arms this time, letting out a rough sigh.

“You’re more than deserving of whatever your little heart desires. Maker knows that… and if they don’t, well. I’d be more than happy to let them know.” They both chuckled, and split apart to take another drink of caf.

Only now that question still hung in the air. It wasn’t that she didn’t want the Commander to come back. But honestly, she couldn’t seem to distinguish what exactly she wanted to give him. Or whether or not Rex was talking about the Commander when he’d been oh-so willing to remind them of her own importance. Either option was enough to make her stomach knot. The girl always wanted to give, but had -according to Rex- a bad habit of never taking anything in return. But doing what she did for the troopers, allowed her the opportunity to do just that. The men hardly had anything to give, except a heartfelt thanks upon leaving. And she didn’t have to do anything but help. No transaction if the troopers didn’t desire it, and even then it was always guided by the understanding that they didn’t owe her anything.

“I want to be good.” She smiled, sounding like a broken record to Rex.

“I don’t know how I can make it any more obvious.” He sighed. “I’ve told you hundreds of times that you’re the Guardian Angel of me, and my vod.”

The girl felt another rise of heat in her face.

“Wolffe will come back. I’m sure of it.” Rex continued, “If he knows what’s good for him, he’ll never want to leave this place.”

This right here is probably some of my favorite dialogue I've written. Honestly, I don't think I write it well but the feelings I got while writing this made the whole scene that much more special overall. I loved writing for Rex in the 'big brother' sense. Rex is such a sweetheart, and the entire conversation was so very easy to write. Organic conversation is challenging for me normally, and for whatever reason -I think it's these two characters really- that made everything jive really well. Like I said, It's really nothing groundbreaking. But I'm proud of little-ole-me for doing it anyways.☺️

Thank you for asking me doll, you never fail to make me smile. 🥰

Much Love, Rightful 🤍

#fanfic ask game #uponrightful #uponrightful answers

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jungcity · 4 years ago

Text

bane of the devil. | viii

genre: vampire!jaehyun [angst | fluff | smut]

pairings: jaehyun x female reader

words: 5.9k

warning: bane of the devil deals with themes of deaths, physical, mental, and sexual abuse as well as toxic relationships. which may be upsetting for some readers. you are advised not to continue if you feel uncomfortable to these types of plots.

“she is made of

bruises of the past,

of bullets made from flames.

she could rattle the skies

and shake the stars.

perhaps you have

missed the wolf

underneath her skin.

but she wasn’t made

to cower under your gun.

she wasn’t the hunter,

and she wasn’t the prey.

she is the enemy of the

demons who does

not deserve mercy.”

— bane of the devil, viii

A smiling Rhianon was who greeted you as you shut the door close behind you. With your heart still thundering against your chest by the little display Jaehyun had shown, you sauntered up to your own bed. Your body slightly bouncing by the impact of it on the soft mattress. The room was painted with darkness, with only Rhianon’s lamp providing the light.

“I couldn’t believe it! You really are friends with a vampire? How?” She looked so excited that she seemed to jump. Her glasses caught the glint of the lamp beside her table. Its yellow light touching half of Rhianon’s face.

You smiled shyly towards her, not bothering to light your own lamp. A thick tome rests on her bed, its pages splayed. Similar to the light of the lamp, its pages were also tinge with yellow; a sign that the book had seen better days.

“Yes. It was the most unexpected happening of my life, believe me.” Then a merry yet controlled chuckle escaped your lips. Jaehyun’s unfortunate state in front of your doorstep sinking back in your mind. “What is that?” Veering the conversation from you, you’ve decided to point your finger towards the thick book laying on her bed.

Rhianon followed your finger, until her own eyes landed on the thick tome. She grabbed and placed it on her lap. “Book of Enchantments and Magic,” she pronounced while trailing her fingers over the embossed title. “What a simple title for a powerful book.” Then she puffed a sigh.

Rhianon held the book on its edges, showing you a better view of its golden title. By the light, the cover gave off a crimson color. Dents and scratches could be found on its surface. A further sign that the book is, indeed, old.

“I didn’t know you’re interested in those kinds of books.” You smiled at her. The bookshelf located at the corner of the room must’ve been full of books about enchantments.

“Oh, I am interested. Deeply.” Rhianon ran her hand on the book’s cover, before placing it on her bedside table. “Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been devouring all of these books. I swear, I already have memorized every single one of these pages. That’s why I have poor eyesight.” She shrugged, pointing her finger at her eyes.

Suddenly, and as if meant to be brought up, you remembered Rhianon’s reason of joining the Academy. She stated it’s because of Madame. The pieces weren’t that hard to put back together. Madame is a witch. Rhianon have a whole bookshelf containing of books about magic and enchantments.

“Are you a witch?” You hadn’t meant the words to come out bluntly, but they had. Rhianon spared you an indecipherable glance. If she ever looked affronted, you would never know. She concealed her reaction to the question quite well.

“No,” she replied rather laconically. Her throat bobbed against the light. A sign that she could be lying. “Just a practitioner,” she added.

Then she carried the book towards her bookshelf, placed it between the other books and came back to her bed. A heavy aura weighed in between you. Instantly, you’ve regretted your blunt question.

“I’m sorry for asking, Rhianon. It’s not my intention to offend you.”

Rhianon blinked. This time, her face had given clear emotions. And that is a look of surprise. “No, Y/N. You’ve not offended me. It’s just that—” She bit her lower lip, before sighing.

“It’s okay! You don’t need to tell me if you aren’t comfortable,” you stated, holding up your hand as if in surrender.

“I joined to become closer to Madame,” she sighed, before laying her whole back on the bed. “I think it’s stupid. But I still believe that she would help me understand magic.” Her gaze drifted towards the ceiling.

The bed invited you to lay down, and lay down you did. “I think it’s not stupid at all. Mortals could possess magic, too.” You turned on your side and smiled at her.

Rhianon returned the smile, her eyes gleaming in the lamplight. “You think so?”

You nodded, the drowsiness pulling you down. Your eyes blinked in a languid manner. “Yes.” A yawn had escaped from your lips, but you fought it to get the question out of your mouth. “You said you joined for Madame. I now understand that it’s because of this. But, has she ever paid you any attention at all? To teach you magic?”

You truly hoped that you had not broached a sensitive topic. But your curiosity had the best of you. If ever Jaehyun’s instinctive doubts of Madame were true, the least you could do was to gather enough informations from students who had been inside this Academy longer than you were.

A flicker of sadness passed through Rhianon’s face as she turned her head towards you. By that, you already know the answer. Nonetheless, her mouth moved. “No. She said I should earn her trust, first. Which is funny, because I’ve been here for two years.”

Two years? That is a long time for someone who only joined this school for Madame’s magical teachings.

You clamped your mouth shut. The best way to earn a useful information is to listen. Specially when the person you were conversing with seemed to combust with all the suppressed words she had kept to herself.

“Two years of letting Eva break my bones. Two years of those leafy and rancid greens at the canteen. The only thing that’s stopping me from running away is the hope that she would, eventually, spare me a glance. And of course, Lucas’ smile.” She giggled like a high-school girl at the end of the sentence.

Of course. Lucas. Who wouldn’t fall for that ethereal face? Those eyes, and those luscious lips like freshly plucked cherries. Yet as you think about the good qualities of Lucas, the image of a dimpled-guy with pale complexion and eyes like the pit of the universe— so enticing, so enigmatic— couldn’t help but flash in your mind like a movie scene. The kiss that the same guy gave your head earlier sending tingling sensation all throughout your body.

“Yes. Lucas’ smile,” you repeated, with Jaehyun’s face etched on the very surface of your mind.

Rhianon started to snore, a sign that your roommate had already fallen into slumber. You whispered a silent good night before closing your eyes and joining her to dreamlands.

—

Red silk gown. Red lips. Red fingernails. Red bottoms. The crimson color seemed to overwhelm Alena’s appearance tonight. Her dark marble floors shone brightly, with the help of the prodigious chandeliers hanging on the roofs of her mansion.

This home. So expansive. So marvelous. Yet so empty. The silence was almost deafening. And Alena had never felt so alone. With a flick of her wrist, a vampire appeared from behind her. Ready to hear her words. Ready to obey.

She could feel her power threading through the most minuscule of her veins as she walked through the long table located at the very center of this separate hall. The vampire silently trailed behind her.

Everything was black; the chairs, the long table, the pillars adorning every corner of the room. Save for the crimson curtains that covers the floor-to-ceiling window panes. She darted her eyes at the chair that resembles that of a throne sitting at the very head of the table. She sat on it like how a queen would. Because in this town, she is.

“Sicheng,” she pronounced the words with enough carnality to make the boy salivate. “Pour me some wine.” And by wine she meant human blood, with a drop of honey to make it much sweeter. After all, not all human blood was as sweet as her taste buds would penchant for. Some were bitter to the taste, some doesn’t even bore any taste at all.

The man— Sicheng— gladly oblige, his lips stretching to reveal a smile. He has been extremely helpful to Alena ever since she turned him. He never once denied her orders. Be it to kill or deliver her fresh human blood, the boy oblige with reverence fit for a vampire leader.

As Alena brought the wine glass against her lips, the blood glinted in the chandelier first. She took a sip, then a moan echoed through her. Human blood is unparalleled. But she knows a particular kind of blood which out rivaled any other blood she’s ever tasted. The blood of her fiancé, Jaehyun.

Alena has lived for almost three-hundred years now. She’s tasted different bloods from sundries of species, hence she’s aware of the certain sweetness and omnipotence commixed with Jaehyun’s blood that made her wanting for more. At first she thought it was his neglect of his vampiric body and soul, yet Alena could still not pinpoint what was special in her fiancé’s blood. One thing that she was certain of, though, was the matchless power it gave her.

Jaehyun’s blood allowed her to walk under the sun unscathed. It repelled her from holy things such as the rosary and the bible. Ever since she started to drink her fiancé’s blood, she could skim through the bible and mock every verse printed on it without her fingers burning. Oh, how forlorn she’s become since Jaehyun begun to play hide-and-seek with her.

Alena’s thoughts were interrupted by the stomping of boots against her marble floors. She gathered her patience to prevent herself from burning whoever it might be. At last, the door opened, revealing Ranus, her favorite party organizer.

“My lady,” he greeted while giving Alena a bow that could almost reach the floors. “You look fantastic as always.” Ranus’ eyes shone in the chandeliers.

Alena raised a brow. Such empty pleasantries. If given the chance, all of the vampires in this useless town would certainly try to kill Alena in a blink of an eye. She wasn’t the leader all of these vacuous vampires expected her to be. Her hands were made of iron and cruelty and blood; one her father and grandfather didn’t have. And now they reside at the Athanar, where all vampires at the age of five hundred and beyond rests, leaving Alena to reign over.

“How is the preparation going on, Ranus?” If Alena’s voice would have a physical form, it surely would be a venomous snake. Born with a vampire venom circulating in her body, Alena made sure to bolster that venom to act as her defense towards those who wishes her dead.

“Smoothly as always, my lady.” Ranus kept his head down, not daring to look Alena in the eyes. To do so would be downright disrespect. One rule Alena wants her vampires to follow; never look her straight in her eyes. They don’t have the power to dare such impudence.

Only Jaehyun could look her in the eyes. And now he’s gone, hiding from her.

Alena pushed away the thoughts by standing up, her hand still holding the glass of blood. Her heels clanked against the floors. With a flick of her wrist, the curtains parted to give her a better view of the world outside. Alena’s forefathers built their mansion at the very edge of a cliff, for they wanted to look down on the people underneath their mansion’s magnificence. Mortals are vital for a vampire’s survival, but they don’t— will never— match the glory that even a fledgling has.

“And the venue?” she asked after taking the last sip of her wine. She would’ve asked for another glass if not for Ranus’ dreadful answer.

“Juana insists the venue to be at her villa, my lady.”

“Is that so?” What a surprise. Juana undermining her decisions.

It was decided that the vampire leader of this town would supervise the incoming gathering of vampires and vampire hunters alike. That means Alena would be the one to decide things, not anyone in those wretched Academy, and specially not Juana. That hag.

“Yes, my lady.”

Alena gripped the wine glass so tight it cracked on her hand. She could feel Ranus’s eyes on her back, his fear clinging onto the air. “Go and remind that witch bitch who’s in charge here.”

“At once, my lady.”

Alena could still feel Ranus’ presence behind her. He was reluctant to say something. “What is it Ranus?”

“My lady… Juana also reminds you of the thirty-fifty ratio of attendees for the gathering.”

“Ah, yes.” The wine glass finally shattered. Its shards jabbing through Alena’s palms, causing blood to flow from her flesh.

Juana insists that the attendees of the incoming gathering would only consist of thirty vampires and fifty hunters. When Alena first heard of the demand, she almost snap a vein in her temple of laughing by the incredulity of it. The witch really believed that she could overpower the vampire with twenty additional hunters.

Tonight, as she heard the same demand, the certain anger meant for the witch ignited once again in her chest. It’s too much of a disrespect for the vampires. But for the sake of everyone’s entertainment, she would agree. It’s better to let the witch thinks she has the upper hand, only to be disappointed in the end. Victory is sweeter when it’s unexpected.

“Tell her I agree.”

“My lady?”

Alena whirled and sauntered up to Ranus. She caressed the vampire’s cheek with the wounded hand that was starting to heal itself, before giving Ranus’ lips a tender kiss. The vampire stilled, his every veins shouting in fear. “You heard me. Now, go, Ranus.” With another light pat on the cheek from Alena, Ranus sprinted away from the vampire leader.

After Ranus’ departure, Alena turned her full attention to the vampire in the shadows. It’s time for the game to continue.

“Sicheng, come here.”

Alena walked back to her throne at the edge of the table. Sicheng was beside her, waiting for the orders.

“Find Jaehyun. He must attend the gathering with me.” At much as the words hurts her throat, Alena needs Jaehyun to escort him to the gathering. All of the vampires in this town knows their relationship. And if they fear Alena with her presence alone, what more when she’s with Jaehyun? The latter doesn’t realize it yet, but the strength he has in his body could overthrow even the elders at the Athanar. Much gratitude to Jaehyun’s stupidity, he doesn’t know about that yet. And Alena had no plans to apprise him of it.

“Yes, my lady.”

“He’s with a girl. If she gets in the way, kill her.”

Alena wasn’t certain if Jaehyun’s imbecility could rival itself. That could only be proven if he decides to choose a mere college girl over a vampire leader.

“I’m at your disposal, my lady.”

She once again flicked her wrist to dismiss Sicheng. He attempted to leave, but Alena’s voice echoed through the hall again, halting the vampire on his tracks.

“Be careful, you might see your mother on your sleuthing.”

Sicheng’s jaw tightened, a further reminder of the hatred he bears for his own mother. He only nodded before he disappeared from Alena’s sight.

Sicheng is the reason why Juana seeks to destroy Alena. Little did she knew, it was her son who crawled his way to Alena’s mansion, begging her to turn him. Until now, Juana believes that Alena turned her son against his will. Alena did what she had to do to save Sicheng, and now the wrath of a witch lays on her shoulders.

A poisonous smile stretched out in her lips. Alena is a god. And no mere witch— no matter how powerful she might be— could destroy her.

—

The uniform exceeded all your agitations. Not only it was uncomfortable, it was also a bit tight for your liking. The secret curves you tried to hide with baggy shirts were now displayed for everyone to see. You felt as if you were sculpted. But you could not be bothered about the uniform, for you were already standing in an open space near the Arena to listen to Eva and Lucas.

Rhianon discussed with you the importance of the Arena on the way to the open space earlier. She said, twice a year, venatrixes and venators compete to showcase their strength at the Arena. It was also directed by the Madame, herself. With few of the vampire hunters helping her hold the event.

“Alright, a pleasant morning to everyone. I hope you’re ready for today’s training.”

Everyone was silent, allowing Eva’s voice to be as clear as possible. You have decided to stand at the very end of the lane with Rhianon. But that doesn’t excuse you of the scrutinizing eyes of both venatrixes and venators alike. They looked at you as if they were already aware of the weakness residing in your bones. However, you held your chin as high as you could muster. You went here for your parents, not to please these students.

“Let us start, shall we?” Eva held her fist high, then she shouted, “Venatrix!”

All of the students around you, including Rhianon, stood rigid and pressed their fist across their chests. “Venatrix: steadfast and loyal!”

The echo of voices deafened you, but you scrambled to put your fist across your chest and shout whatever the motto was. Your tongue knotted together in a hurry to catch up and shout the motto, you could only hope that no one heard you as you tripped on your words.

“We’ve practiced and trained enough strategies in defeating a vampire in a combat. But as we have a new venatrix, we shall recall these strategies from the very beginning,” Lucas stated. His demeanor was more stout and serious than when you were only having a casual conversation with him. He does not carry the spring-like smile in him today, making his face more dangerous. The kind of danger you weren’t conscious someone such as him could possess.

The silent groans broke you out of your reverie. Clearly, the venatrixes weren’t happy about this decision. You could shrink back behind Rhianon, or you could continue to held your chin up high to pretend that their protestations doesn’t affect you at all. You did the latter. Madame needs you, and no degradation could take that advantage away from your hands.

“Y/N, it’s a pleasure. Could you please— stand here?” Lucas’ smile returned as he gestured for you to stand in the frontline. Of course, he could easily spot you with his height.

The line parted for you. Rhianon gave your hand a tight squeeze before you trekked towards Lucas. His smile never faltered as you finally took your place in the front.

Eva gave you a small smile before bellowing instructions again. “Remember your stance. You would hate to forget it. Vampires are swift creatures— but it would be an advantage that you remember how to dig your soles in the ground for more strength.” Eva raised her fist, as if to punch someone. Then she placed her right foot behind the left, her left hand resting in fist at her sides, as if she was about to uppercut someone. “This is the stance of every fighter. Y/N, could you please try it?” Eva invited you with her hand stretched out.

You gulped and did as you were told. Lucas raised your fist, while Eva nudged your left foot to separate your feet further. Her action almost made you lose your footing, but she was quick to catch your arm. Silent laughters could be heard from the throng of students, heightening your agitation. Your eyes frantically searched for Rhianon’s face in the crowd, but to no avail.

“Quiet!” Lucas shouted. At once, the laughters stopped.

“Your muscles are tensed, Y/N. Try to relax them at the point of comfort,” Eva whispered. “Make them strong but not too rigid.”

Having no idea of how to do her orders, you furrowed your brows. With that, Lucas chuckled. But your eyes caught up on the frown that was etched across Eva’s features. As your eyes met, she smiled.

“I think it’s best if we dismiss the venatrixes today? Send them to the armory to practice weapons?” Eva turned her attention to Lucas. The boy blinked but nodded his head.

“Alright, all of you, go to the armory and practice your preferred weapons,” Lucas pronounced. All of them nodded their heads before the crowd dissipated, leaving only you to Lucas’ and Eva’s graces. Rhianon gave you a small wave before following the students. You only nodded your head, for Eva’s grip on your arm didn’t allow you to wave back to your friend.

“Focus, Y/N. You need to catch up.” There was an edge to Eva’s voice now. As if the five-minutes of teaching had already drove her impatient.

“Show us your strength, Y/N. Try to punch my palms.” Lucas held up both his palms for you to attack.

Then you started to punch. Lucas held them firm. You continued to attack him with your punches. Beads of perspiration already forming on your forehead, but the black uniform seemed to sponge the sweats from your body. Leaving you feeling grimy.

“Okay, stop.” He smiled. You hunched your back and pressed your palms to your knees, trying to refocus your breathing.

“You have the strength in you, Y/N. Practice is all you need.”

Thanks to your physical education classes about boxing. You had dreaded every session of that class, never realizing that the things you had refused to learn would be useful today.

“Again,” Eva demanded. She held up her own palms, her brows knotted in concentration. You glanced at Lucas. The boy gave you one of his encouraging smiles before tapping your back.

You slightly twisted your arm to land a punch in Eva’s palms. Unlike Lucas, she moved, causing you to miss her hand by a hairsbreadth. You knotted your brows but she only smiled. So you continued to penetrate her, and she continued to move her palms to different positions, rejecting your every hit. Impatience slowly crawled on your skin, intensifying your determination and giving you more strength. Eva’s feet started to move backwards as she tried to defend herself from your attacks. Lucas silently following the both of you.

It was obvious that she’s draining you out of your energy, and perhaps she’s trying to ridicule you. A smirk was displayed across her face, widening as you mishit her palms yet again.

You fought the urge to punch her face instead. Restlessness would lead you to nothing but more troubles. You only need to hit and hit and—

Suddenly, the world seemed to whirl in different colors. The only thing you felt was the hard collision of your breaches against the hard ground, followed by the fall of your whole upper body. Red spots swam in your vision as you struggled on your feet. Albeit regaining your footing, the world continued to move around you. Firms hands held you in place, steadying you.

“Why did you do that?” Lucas asked.

It took you minutes to realize that he was asking Eva.

“We need to advance her training.” She shrugged.

You blinked a few times. When the swirling of your vision finally halted, you wiped the dust off your palms and off your uniform.

“Oh, yes? You didn’t need to punch her nose, Eva!”

Eva’s mouth was formed in a thin line. She placed her arms across her chest, her foot tapping on the ground.

“It’s okay, Lucas.” You held up your hand. No, it was not okay. You wanted to attack Eva again to regain your pride. Of all the body parts she could hit, she really decided to punch your nose instead? You waited for blood to flow from your nostrils. Thankfully, after touching the skin below your nose several times, the only liquid you could feel was your sweat.

“Do you need to go to the clinic?” Eva asked, her voice devoid of the warmth she once gave you yesterday.

Clinic, again? The offer was enticing. All you wanted to do was to go back on the bed and sleep. But to do so would mean another weakness. You refused to dwell to that same feeling again. So you shook your head.

“No.”

For hours, Lucas instructed you with different techniques. Eva dismissed herself, saying that she would look over how the venatrixes were faring with their weapons. Having Eva away gave you a little peace of mind. Lucas was gentler and more focused on magnifying your strength. He would only laugh and teach you the right ways every time you tripped over.

After hours of training, he told you to rest. Now you’re alone in the open area under the tree, munching your food.

“How’s your training?”

Your food went flying from the spoon as Jaehyun sat beside you. “Don’t startle me like that!” You pitifully looked at the food on the ground, dirt had already coated it. “Why are you here?” You snapped your head at him.

Jaehyun’s smirk faltered as he took in the condition of your face. You raised a brow. He held your chin, his face not giving away any emotions. Then he deadpanned, “Who did that to you?”

Automatically, you covered your nose with your hands, the spoon you were holding went flying to the ground as well. “Accident.” How did he manage to see the injury? You were certain that your nose still had the red tinge from yesterday’s brawl. Jaehyun shouldn’t be able to spot that you have yet obtained another fresh injury.

“Accident? On your first day of training?”

You nodded. “Yeah, earlier.”

“Then you’re dumber than I thought.”

With that, you landed a punch to his arm. His nose scrunched up as if he was in pain. “I know you weren’t hurt.” You rolled your eyes. It’s better if he doesn’t know who injured you on your first day. Eva almightily stared him down yesterday. And you know the scene didn’t settle right on Jaehyun. Best not to reveal everything to him.

“Why are you alone?”

“Lucas told me he’s going to check up on Eva and the others. You? Why are you out here in the sunlight?”

Jaehyun leaned on the tree. “I was bored.”

“Bored? So you decided to risk your life out here in the open?”

“I can handle myself.” Then he reached his hands towards the little sunlight that had succeeded to infiltrate through the lush of the leaves.

“Jaehyun!” You tried to swat his hands away.

“Relax,” he assured you before continuing on his doing. Then it started. As the sunlight proceeded to touch Jaehyun’s skin, his flesh emitted thin layers of smoke. Faint smell of burning flesh mixed with the fresh air. You covered your nose from the stench.

“Stop that!” You wrenched his hands away from the ray of light. This time, he didn’t budge.

The back of Jaehyun’s hands continued to sizzle, but the smell was fleeting. Pinkish flesh could be seen from his scorched skin. He opened and closed his hands, as if to stretch the skin. Then the skin started to stitch itself back together until no trace of burned flesh could be seen.

“I do that some times to remind myself I’m still half-alive.”

Your eyes could not turn away from his hands. Vampires could heal themselves faster than any mortal devices could. But to witness it on your own, it still brought an unnerving feeling to settle in your bones.

“That’s…”

“Awesome?” Jaehyun raised a brow. Then he stood up, offering his hand to you. “Get up, I’ll teach you how to defend yourself better than Lucas.”

“I would say that was scary,” you teased before holding his hand to prop yourself. “Teach me your ways, your majesty.” You mockingly curtsied, earning a soft laugh from him.

“What did they teach you?”

You did Eva’s instruction from earlier. You raised your fist, the other resting on your sides. Then you stepped your one foot forward, the other digging in the ground. “This. And then Lucas taught me the correct ways to punch.”

Jaehyun pursed his lips to repressed a laugh. “Ten seconds in the battle and you’re dead.” Then he sauntered up beside you, “These are all useless. When you come face to face with a vampire, these postures won’t help you. You must study your opponent— and you could only do that if you let the vampire attack first.” Jaehyun backwardly stepped away from you. His fingers moving, as if challenging you to a battle. “For this practice, I won’t use my swiftness,” he stated before running towards you as if to attack.

Your heart thudded in your chest. He looked ready to hurt you. So you did the one thing you could do then, you covered your head with your arms.

“Dead,” Jaehyun muttered. You waited for the impact, but none came. So you opened your eyes. His hand were splayed, inches away from your suit. “Don’t cower, Y/N. Study my attacks.”

“You’re scary,” you whispered, embarrassed to admit the words.

“I am deadly attractive, Y/N. And you say you’re scared of me. What more if you come to battle with an unattractive vampire?”

With that, you raised a brow. Vampire venom does a lot of things. If you weren’t generally attractive in your mortal life, the venom could enhance your features, sculpting your visage to that of a pleasing one once you turn into a vampire. Jaehyun must have been extremely agreeable when he was still a mortal, for his face today could rival the beauty of gods.

You shook your head, aiming for your focus. “Let’s try again.” Eva’s instructions flew away from your memory as Jaehyun attacked you yet again. He was swift, even without his power.

“Dead.” He smiled when he captured your neck. His hands once again splayed as if to chop your head off your body.

You sighed but never hesitated, so you defended yourself again and again.

“Dead,” he chuckled.

“Dead.”

“You’re dead, Y/N.”

You wiped your brow with the back of your hand, “This is frustrating!”

“C’mon! Don’t give up. Pay attention to my attacks.”

Jaehyun strike at the side of your waist, but you defended yourself by turning to avoid his hands. Then he attacked your head, you crouched as fast as you could. His knee was about to collide with your face when you pushed it away with your palms. You wheeled your body away, and attempted to punch him right in his face, where he was defenseless. But as your fist was about to strike at his cheek, he turned on his side and caught your arm. His smirk returned as he saw the realization dawning across your face.

Jaehyun’s left hand caught yours, then he pinned it behind you. While his other hand held your right. You were now immovable. Defeated.

“Dead,” he whispered, his breath fanning your cheek.

One swift move and your lips would surely collide. All your muscles stilled, the somersaulting of your heart was so loud. You fought the urge to crash your lips against his, even though it was so tempting to do so. Jaehyun has a fiancée. But the words weren’t enough to move your body away from him. It was ludicrous.

Jaehyun closed the space between the two of you, but before he could land his lips against yours, someone interrupted the both of you. His lips landed on the side of your head instead when you pulled away from him.

Lucas and Eva came into view. With the latter plastering a deep frown across her face. She was obviously unhappy of what she saw. Yet you could not be bothered by her reaction.

“I see that you’re practicing another techniques, Y/N.” Eva smiled, but there was no friendliness attached to her face.

What’s happening to her? Yesterday, she was so enthusiastic. Friendly, even.

“What do you mean?” You dared ask as you straightened your back.

Eva raised her brow, “Seduction is a weapon not all girls could wield. I admire your technique.”

“Eva–!” Lucas grabbed her arm, but she held her chin high.

Seduction? Does your position screamed seduction to her? You won’t admit it, but her words jabbed a shard on your chest. You don’t need to seduce your way to triumph.

“Eva.”

The three of you snapped your head to Jaehyun. He was standing beside you, his hands hidden in the pocket of his jeans.

“Eva, right?” When Eva nodded, Jaehyun continued, “You’re not my type.”

“Excuse me?!” Eva’s eyes widened. Lucas pursed his lips tighter. While you remained standing beside Jaehyun.

“I can hear your heart, you know. Do you want me to narrate the things that’s going on in your head? Of how you dreamt about me— even though you’ve only met me yesterday?” Jaehyun’s words were as flat as the ground underneath your feet.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about!” She half-screamed. But you didn’t miss the bobbing of her throat nor the perspiration slowly coating her forehead. Now, you are absolutely curious about her dreams even though knowing means breaching her privacy.

“You do. And quit bitching around. You’re supposed to train Y/N, not humiliate her.”

“He’s right, Eva.” Lucas chimed in.

Eva snapped her head towards him. “Shut up!” she seethed. Then she turned her head back to Jaehyun, her eyes like fiery coals. “And you shut up, vampire.”

When Jaehyun attempted to reiterate, you held up your hand. Whatever secret he has in the back of his tongue, you won’t hear it. It would humiliate Eva further. And you didn’t want that.

“You are weak, Y/N. Weaker than what I have anticipated.”

Lucas held her arm tighter, pulling her away from you. “Shut up, Eva!”

Ice cold rage swept through your whole body. You furrowed your brows and sauntered up to face her. “What did you say?” Every last bit of patience you have for her is now clinging on a loose thread. One wrong word and you would certainly land your fist right in her face— to hell with the ramifications.

“Y/N, she didn’t mean it—”

“Oh, I meant it! I meant every word of it! You are weak and you will never be one of—”

Your palm smarted from the slap you gave her. But that wasn’t enough for the insult she’d thrown at you. You gathered a fistful of her hair and threw her to the ground. However, she regained her footing easily and landed a straight blow to your face. You staggered backward, but Jaehyun supported you upright.

“Remember what I told you,” he whispered before letting you go.

Eva ran towards you, her hands formed into fists. You raised your arms to cover your head, and you let her punch every opening to your body. Lucas attempted to pull Eva away, but Jaehyun clasped his hand around Lucas’ wrist. He mouthed ‘let them’ before nodding at you.

“You bitch!” Eva snarled.

Where did her hateful energy come from? Nevertheless, you’ve decided not to be affected. You struggled to memorize her every strike for your own advantage. And when you did succeed, an opening through her face greeted you. You landed your fist to her nose. The bones made a cracking sound, sending satisfaction all throughout your body. Eva fell on the ground. Before she could stand up, you sat on her stomach and raised your fist, ready to punch her again. But a viselike grip took hold of your wrist.

“Enough,” Jaehyun said.

You tried to catch your breath and calm your nerves. Eva still underneath you, clutching her nose. What have you done? You blinked and allowed Jaehyun to help you on your feet. Lucas aided Eva to stand up. The whole area was silent, save for your heavy breathings.

“I’m sorry, Y/N.” Lucas frowned, before guiding Eva away. But the woman refused to be guided by Lucas. She looked at you as if she wishes you dead.

“We’re not done, Y/N,” she warned.

A sarcastic laugh reverberated through you, “Alright, then.” Then you pinned her down with stare, “But know this, Eva, don’t you dare underestimate me again.”

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gryffindorcls · 5 years ago

Text

What Are We Waiting For?

(ML Lovesquare Fluff Week 2k19 - Day 6:Napping)

WARNING: THIS CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR CHAT BLANC AND THE SEASON 3 FINALE

---

Hello, lovely readers!

HAPPY DAY 6 OF LOVESQUARE FLUFF WEEK 2019!!!

The Day 6 prompt is “Napping”.

(NOW...was Day 6 yesterday? YES. Did I also miss Day 5 and will finish it later this week? ALSO YES. Is that okay? ��100% YES.)

Thank you @lovesquarefluffweek for organizing this week of fluff!

---

What Are We Waiting For?

Day 6: Napping

Adrien yawned and stretched his hands behind his back. He was exhausted. Unfortunately, he wasn’t just physically drained, but he was mentally spent, as well.

Last night had been difficult. His father once again kept him from an outing with his friends. While it was something that he was used to, he was getting tired of having to sit alone in his room practicing piano or learning Chinese for hours on end. All he wanted was to exist as a normal teenager. He was seventeen now, and he wondered when his life would finally change for the better.

The frustration piled even higher this time because he knew that Marinette would be there. Sure, he had the chance to see her when they were galavanting across the rooftops as Ladybug and Chat Noir, but it’d been days since he’d transformed. Ever since they had accidentally timed out in front of each other after a particularly difficult Akuma attack, he’d sought out every possible opportunity to spend time with her. Not being able to see her always put him in a sour mood.

When they discovered each other’s identities last year, Ladybug had cried. He’d been so worried that she didn’t want him as a partner anymore. Adrien closed his eyes and the image of her tear-stained face flashed across his mind.

“Ladybug...Marinette...I don’t understand. Please tell me what’s wrong,” he pleaded.

She looked at him and choked back a sob with a smile. “Everything and nothing…that’s what’s wrong.”

He hung his head. “You’re sad because we have to give up our Miraculouses. I should have looked away. I messed everything up.”

“God, no. I’m the Guardian. Who am I going to give my Miraculous to? No one. I’m Ladybug. And you...don’t you dare put yourself down. YOU’RE my Chat Noir, and I trust you...oh, I trust you! I can trust you! Thank God...that makes so much more sense. Of course, you wouldn’t have told anyone...you’re wonderful. I knew something wasn’t quite right.”

“I still don’t...does that mean you’re happy?”

“Chaton, I’m relieved. I thought I couldn’t trust you again...not after...I can’t...not today...and then I gave you up because I thought…”

“You’re not making any sense right now.”

“There’s so much that you don’t know, and honestly I don’t understand everything either. But what I do know...Chat...Adrien...I’m so happy that it’s you.”

“Then why are you crying? And what do you mean you gave me up?”

“Adrien, I’m glad you found someone who loves you. Things are starting to make a little bit more sense now. When Bunnyx took me to that place...well, I had no idea what she saw in that other timeline. She wouldn’t tell me.”

“Bunnyx? When was she here? What happened?” His head was reeling.

“You kept saying it was our love...oh, my God...you loved me. You really loved me. We must have figured it out...and...and…”

“I’ve always loved you. I don’t understand.”

“There must have been a time when we were happy. It can never be, but maybe I can rest better knowing that it could have been wonderful. It’s too risky for us...Hawkmoth must have figured it out. I just don’t know...there are still so many missing pieces. Adrien, you deserve happiness...someone who can freely love you right now. It broke my heart to leave that day, but you have her. That’s what matters. You have someone.” She buried her head in her hands and sunk to the ground.

He ran to her side and pulled her into his arms. “Ladybug...I’m still confused. Who are you talking about? What happened? When were we happy?”

“Last year, I did something, and then I saw...you were Akumatized, but I fixed it. You knew who I was...I was so confused. It’s such a long story, but it led me to believe that I couldn’t be myself around you...well, Adrien you...so when I saw you with Kagami...you looked so happy. I left. It broke me, but I had to let you go.”

“Are you talking about Kagami? Oh, Marinette, I never...we never...I couldn’t. I was never ready to be with her. She got tired of waiting. My heart has only ever belonged to you, my lady, but I thought you were with Luka.”

She pulled away and met his gaze. “My lady...I missed hearing you say that. Poor Luka. Sweet, kind Luka...he’s wonderful, but he’s not the one. He’s not you.”

“Wait, are you telling me that I’m ‘the one’? I was the boy you were in love with?”

“No, my feelings aren’t stuck in the past. I am in love with you, and I always will be.”

“Then let’s be together now. My heart has only ever beat for you. We could be happy. We could make that happen.”

“No, Adrien we can’t. We never can. Not until he’s gone. Otherwise, everyone will be in danger. You didn’t see what I saw. I can’t...we can’t...you don’t know how badly I wish it weren’t this way, but we have to protect everyone. I have to protect you. I’m sorry.”

At that moment, his heart wanted to shatter, but one burning question still lingered in the back of his mind. “If we defeat Hawkmoth, could we be together?”

Ladybug didn’t answer right away. The small sliver of hope inside of him was beginning to fade.

“My lady?” he asked with desperation lacing his voice.

“Yes,” she whispered through a breath.

“Then I will wait for you until the end of time.”

“Oh, Chaton.”

It had been a year since the accidental reveal, and Marinette had become his best friend. They slowly learned how to talk to each other and trust each other with everything. Seeing each other outside of the masks proved to be a challenge, but he cherished every second he spent with her. There had been countless nights where one of them would transform and sneak into the other person’s room. They continued to patrol regularly, but they took extra time to hang out when they were done.

When school let out for the summer, Adrien feared that his time with Marinette would decrease drastically. Usually, his father had him travel abroad for various events and photoshoots. He couldn’t bear the thought of going days or weeks without seeing her; however, when Marinette landed one of the coveted junior internship positions at Gabriel, he’d been thrilled. While they didn’t see each other every day, it was more than he’d anticipated.

Yesterday had been filled with work and tutoring; as a result, his only interaction with Marinette had been a goodnight call. It’d been two days since he’d seen her in person, and it was making him irritable. He couldn’t wait for today’s shoot to finish so he could rush over to her house and spend some much-needed quality time with her.

“Mr. Agreste?” a voice called, pulling him out of his reverie.

He shook his head. “Mr. Agreste is my father. Please...my name is Adrien.”

In front of him stood a young woman with a smug expression who hugged a clipboard against her chest. “Okay...uhhh...Adrien. I came here because there’s something I need to tell you.”

“Is it an emergency? I have to be back on set in five minutes, and I was hoping to get some coffee. The photographer told me that I was looking droopy.”

“Uh...yes. It’s important.”

He sighed and flashed her a polite smile. “Okay. What’s up?”

“So, I wanted to bring it to your attention that one of the other interns is asleep in your trailer.”

“I’m sorry, what?”

“That black-haired intern with the pig-tails is asleep on the couch inside of your trailer.”

“Marinette,” he thought, trying to suppress a chuckle, “I wonder what she’s doing here. She’s supposed to have a day off today.”

He cleared his throat. “Okay, so I’m guessing that you’re also an intern. May I ask what you were doing in my trailer? Interns usually aren’t allowed in there.”

She looked taken aback. “Well, I was told my the lead designer on set to get the red jacket that was hanging on the rack in there...unlike someone else who is obviously in there without permission.”

Adrien nodded. “Sounds great! Thank you. Where’s the jacket?”

“Oh, I...uh...left it there. The girl startled me, and I ran all the way here to tell you what I saw.”

“I see. Could you do me a favor then?”

She perked up and moved closer to him. “Sure, Adrien.”

He took a step back. “Yeah...could you grab my jacket from the trailer and bring it here?”

“Wait...what about the girl?”

“Oh, right...her. Could you make sure that you don’t wake her up when you go in there? Thanks!”

Adrien could hear unintelligible noises come from the intern as he walked away. He did his best not to laugh as he took his place on set and readied himself for another two hours of posing.

Unlike the first half of the photoshoot, he found himself feeling much perkier with the knowledge that Marinette was waiting for him. He was practically vibrating by the end of his session with the photographer.

The second he was released from his modeling duties, Adrien rushed to his trailer. He ran up to the door and paused before quietly stepping inside. He could feel a soft smile form on his lips as his eyes landed on Marinette.

Despite his presence, she continued to sleep soundly on his couch. Her head rested on a soft, blue throw pillow, and she clutched a small package against her chest.

His heart swelled when she released a small sigh and a contented hum. Sometimes, Adrien was shocked by just how much he loved her. While he knew that he would do anything for her, he was still often overcome by how strong his feelings were.

Each day, Adrien held his heart in an outstretched hand in the hopes that Marinette would finally accept it. Despite her hesitation, Adrien knew that she loved him just as much as he loved her. She was the day to his night, and he was the sun to her moon. Their souls had been created together at the beginning of time. She completed him, and he knew that they were made for each other.

Adrien knelt on the ground next to her sleeping form and brushed a stray hair away from her face. She breathed deeply when his finger lightly grazed her forehead. Marinette’s eyes fluttered open.

“Adrien?” she asked groggily.

He smiled. “Hey there, Princess. What are you doing here? You should be at home. I was planning to come and visit you today.”

“I didn’t want to wait. I was hoping to catch you on your break.” Marinette reached out and cupped his cheek.

He happily leaned into her touch. “Is there a reason why you didn’t want to wait?”

“You sounded sad on the phone yesterday, so I made you something. I was...uhhh...up a little late, and your couch was comfortable. My head felt fuzzy, so I closed my eyes for a few minutes. I’m sorry.”

“No, don’t be sorry. You needed the rest.”

“I was surprised to see that you had a trailer this time. Usually, the models just get a tent.”

“Yeah, it was a bigger shoot this time, so they got me a trailer. It doesn’t happen often, but it’s nice when it does. My lady, did you walk all the way here?”

“Umm...yeah.”

“Marinette, you didn’t have to.”

“But I wanted to. You sounded so upset last night, and I hate it when you’re upset. I couldn’t wait to give you this.” She sat up and held out the package she’d been clutching against her chest. “It’s not much, but I just wanted you to smile.”

Adrien carefully took the package from her hands and opened it to reveal a small hamster plush attached to a keychain. “It’s adorable, Marinette. I love it!”

“I remember you saying that you always wanted a hamster...just like I do...and I couldn’t get you a real one, so I was hoping that this one would be a good substitute.”

Adrien could feel hot tears brimming in the corners of his eyes. Unable to contain his emotions any longer, he choked back a loud sob. Within seconds, Marinette was on the floor next to him with her arms wrapped around his shaking body.

She rubbed one of her hands up and down his back. “Chaton, what’s wrong? Did something happen?”

He pulled away and shook his head. “Everything is wrong. What are we waiting for?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Marinette, I love you so much it hurts. Anything that keeps me away from you frustrates me. I want a future with you. I want to get a hamster with you and love you and be by your side every day. I don’t understand why we can’t.”

“Adrien...I...we really can’t. There’s Hawkmoth, and…”

“Screw, Hawkmoth! What does he have to do with us?”

“YOU DIDN’T SEE WHAT I SAW!” she screamed, scrambling away from him and reducing to a puddle of tears in the middle of the floor.

“Then tell me. What did you see? Help me understand.”

“It still gives me nightmares, Chaton. You don’t need them, too.”

“I need you.”

“Adrien..”

“Tell me,” he urged.

She held herself and sobbed. “When Bunnyx came and got me, everything and everyone was gone. You were alone, but you knew who I was. You called yourself Chat Blanc, and you said our love destroyed the world. When I learned your identity last year, I finally figured out that we also must have figured out each other’s identities in an alternate reality. Hawkmoth was there, too, and I don’t know what happened. However, I do know that there is...was...a timeline where we were together and in love...but the world almost ended.”

“But it’s not the same situation. It won’t happen like that again. That’s not how time works. The circumstances are different this time. It wouldn’t be the same.”

“How do you know that? Hawkmoth is still out there. If he found out anything...our identities or our relationship...he could use our love against us. How are we supposed to stay safe if we’re together?”

“We could keep it a secret. No one has to know.”

“What?”

“You’re afraid of us loving each other in the open. My lady, none of those other people matter. You’re the only one who matters. Let me love you behind closed doors...away from prying eyes. It’ll be just us and only us. We can belong to each other and no one else. Then when Hawkmoth is gone, we can be free to show our love to the world.”

“I don’t know.”

“You are my everything. You’re the center of my universe. Marinette, please. I don’t want to waste any more time. You once told me that you trusted me. I will never let anything happen to you...to us. Let me prove that to you. Now that we know, we can do our best to avoid what you saw. Please...unless you don’t love me anymore. If you don’t, I’ll go away, and I promise I’ll never ask you again.”

She wiped the tears off her face with the back of her hand and moved next to him. “I’ve loved you since the day you gave me your umbrella. I tried giving you up so you could find happiness, but I never stopped loving you. You’re my everything, Adrien. My heart feels incomplete without you, but it’s afraid of losing you. I’m scared.”

He reached out his arms and she willingly fell into his embrace. “It’ll be okay, my lady. I promise.”

“How do you know?”

“Because we’re Ladybug and Chat Noir. We can overcome any obstacle as long as we’re together. Just you and me against the world.”

A long silence permeated the room. Adrien’s heart pounded against his chest as uncertainty crept into his brain. Nonetheless, the small sliver of hope in his soul remained ignited.

“Okay,” she whispered into his neck.

His breath hitched. “Okay? Does that mean what I think it means?”

“Yes. As long as we’re careful. No one can know....just us.”

“Anything, my lady...anything. As long as I can love you the way you deserve to be loved, I’ll be content.”

Marinette’s hands made their way to the back of his head where she played with the hair around his neck. “You’re right. I think we’ve waited long enough.”

He leaned forward and kissed the top of her head. “Thank you.”

“It’s not going to be easy, Chaton.”

“It never has been, my lady.”

“How are we going to do this?”

“We’ll figure it out. We always do.”

Marinette pulled away and smiled. “Well, in that case, I love you, Adrien Agreste.”

Adrien leaned in and rested his forehead on hers. “And I love you, Marinette Dupain-Cheng…forever.”

AO3

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toomanysweaters-moved · 5 years ago

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June 3rd, 2019

Clip, clop, clip, clop... Noelle’s hoofed footfalls tapped up the sidewalk, followed by the sound of the little red wagon being dragged behind her; carrying the many, many spoils of her birthday celebration; video games, treats, flowers, a hand-woven doll, a whole cake... and a lot of wonderful new memories.

Even still, while her mood had skyrocketed ever since getting even just one gift... her smile started to fade as she approached the imposing black gates that oh so often barred entrance to her home, thanks to her mother’s... ‘forgetfulness’.

Green eyes stare up at the bars as she came to a stop in front of it, buckteeth softly digging into her bottom lip... wondering if she should just head back up to Kris’s house. Like she had yesterday, not even bothering to try to get inside before... but, no, that would be rude of her to do.

She could deal with getting locked out again. Just like any other day.

Fruitlessly as it might be, a hand reached out to give the gate a tug... her eyes going wide as it came open without an ounce of resistance; it was unlocked.

... she almost didn’t think to actually walk in for a moment, too surprised at the sudden change to what had become her routine. After a solid amount of silence, though, her brain starts working again and she quickly scampers herself & her presents inside... closing the gate behind her, for once.

And after the walk up to her actual front door, she found it unlocked, too. Part of her wondered if they’d been robbed, but as soon as the door was open she could see that wasn’t the case; the house was pristine as ever. Still no sight of her mother, though.

Not that she was... entirely opposed to that, sad as it is. Hence why she tried her best remain quiet as she brought her gifts inside; putting the cake in the fridge and setting up the new Nintend0 in the living room before grabbing an empty vase for her flowers and carrying the rest of her gifts up the stairs to her room. Thank Santa for carpeted steps...

Her gaze fell upon the closed door to her mother’s study as she rounded the top of the stairs, stopping to listen... sure enough, the usual sounds of her ‘going about her business’ could be heard; the distinct sounds of a wineglass clinking against her desk being the most prominent among them.

Eyes fell to the ground and, with a shake of her head, she skulked to her room, sliding it open and quickly slipping inside. Eager to put her gifts away.

A smile managed to grace her face once more as she set the flowers on her bedside table and the plushie made in her dark world likeness on her pillow, taking a moment to just sit there and enjoy the fond memories they brought.

Until the silence was broken by sudden “Good evening.” from behind her. The sound of which made her instantly spin around and straighten her posture.

“G-good evening to you too, mom!” She sputtered out, arms crossing behind her back instinctively as she faced her mother; stood in the doorway, wineglass in hand, and a red bathrobe wrapped snugly around her small frame.

“You didn’t come home yesterday. Are you trying to worry me into an early grave, young lady?” The white rabbit asked, seemingly in jest, as she waltzed in; looking her daughter up and down. “Where were you?”

“Oh, um... I’m sorry, mom! I didn’t mean for that...” Noelle said, quick to swallow any gripe she may have had at the thought she’d actually be ‘worried’ about her. “It’s just... K-Kris... they invited me over for my birthday!

I know, should’ve told you first, I’m-...” Her apology is swiftly interrupted by a audible ‘Oooh!’ from her mother as her wandering eyes caught sight of the doll sitting atop her pillow, red eyes going wide as she walked over to examine it.

“Little Kris didn’t make this for you, did they?” She said, absolutely enamored with the hand-stitched plush’s quality... and how adorable it’s outfit was!

“U... um, no, that was from someone else at... at school.” I mean, it wasn’t technically a lie, but it still sounded like one regardless. “Kris got me... well, got us a new Nintend0! It’s downstairs if you want to-!”

And once again, the poor girl gets interrupted- her oddly excited mother reaching over the bed gingerly snatching one of the flowers from the bouquet on her nightstand. “Now these are from Kris, I bet! I recognize his father’s flowers anywhere!” Her rabbit nose twitches as she gave the flower a sniff, an uncharacteristic smile on her face as she slid it back into the vase.

Noelle... was visibly confused at this point, and couldn’t do much more than nod as she sat down on the bed beside her, clasping her hands together in silence. This was, like... really weird. But, also kind of nice? Almost felt...

“... they asked you out, didn’t they?”

! ! ! ! !

“E... excuse me?” Her voice came out as a squeak, face flushing pink and her nose glowing bright at the sudden jump in the level of questioning. “On a date, sweetheart. Why else would they give pretty girl like you a bouquet?

Unless they inherited that habit from Asgore, which I doubt.”

Oh, they’re doing this. This is what they’re doing now. Sweet Santa Claus... “Well... n-no, they didn’t, they... they were just being nice...!” She’s stammering now, and her mother’s squinted gaze certainly isn’t helping.

“... hm. I suppose he did inherit it, then.” The white rabbit said, taking a sip of her whine... not sounding at all convinced of that fact, but she knew her daughter wasn’t lying so there was no point arguing with her. She’ll give it a month.

Finally. She’s finally given a moment to breath....

“Then who did ask you out, hm?”

“ WH... WHA... HOW DID YOU...?!”

An amused chortle from her mom broke the poor girl’s squealing, interrupting her for the third time in the span of a few minutes. “Well, I didn’t. Until now.”

... the fawn’s eye twitched. Once, then twice, then finally the poor deer collapsed onto her pillow in utter defeat, while her mother sat there sipping her wine smugly over her. All too proud of her successful interrogation.

“So, who was it~? A boy from your class? It better not be that Nerdly kid. I’ll kick his ass. You deserve better than that.”

... blink, blink. Her ears couldn’t help but perk up hearing such a familiar sentiment from a completely different source... had she been talking to dad lately? “... n... no, actually, it was... well...” Stars, this was gonna be weird to-

“So it was a girl, then? Interesting. Gotta be something really special if even the girls wanna ask you out, hon.” The... praise(?) was accompanied by a gentle little clap of her paws, apparently pleased with this realization... leaving her daughter utterly perplexed. “You... you don’t mind?”

And there’s that chirping laugh again.

“Mind? Sweetheart, if things had gone just a hair differently in college I’d have been the one married Toriel and Rudy’ be off growing flowers with Asgore.

How is she, by the way? Bet the dinner she served last night was delicious.”

... the only response she got was her daughter screaming into her pillow after the mental images she’d just put in the poor girl’s head. Not that she minded that, either; why else would she throw something like that at her?

She gives the fawn a moment to work it out, patting her shoulder as a comfort, even as the amused smile was still on her face. “So, really, who’s the lucky girl?”

... deep (pillow) breath. Noelle manages to pull herself up, snatching up the doll Ralsei had made her and hugging it tightly before, sheepishly, getting out an answer. “S... Susie. Her name is Susie...” And now she’s blushing again.

For once, the impish look on her mother’s face fades away; red eyes widening and her head tilting at the answer. “... Susie? Susie Touchdown?” Legitimate surprise oozed from her tone, making Noelle shrink... in fear that might be an actual problem. The fact her mom knew of her only made it worse.

So, she just nodded in silence.

... but, no lecturing to have a ‘better judge of character’ or anything of the type came. Instead...she just whistled. Like... in a cartoon.

“Really didn’t take you for the bad girl type, hon! Suppose that’s what runs in our family~!”

She just... winked. Was that in reference dad’s attraction to her or her attraction to Toriel? Who knows, certainly not Noelle, nor does she want to know. She’s... just confused and... sort of happy?

Having a pleasant talk with her mother was... something she missed. All she could do was just... laugh. She’s giggling, to be specific. And Carrolle is giggling with her.

“Oh hon, I’ve got the perfect outfit! She’ll love it; trust me!” The rabbit practically hops up from her seat, bouncing all the way to her room; gong off about how you ‘don’t wear dresses on the first date’ and how she ‘knows Susie’s type’... It was fun. Noelle was about to follow... when she noticed something.

A tiny, gift-wrapped present; right where her mother was sitting. Ears twitch, looking between the present and the door... before grabbing it.

Doesn’t take her Gyftmas-trained hands long at all to get through wrapping paper, or the little box within it... green eyes widening at sight inside.

It was... a key.

A spare key.

#Merry Everyday! // IC //#drabble #actlead #freshsave #deltagram #okay so this was something i'd intended to write on Noelle's actual b-day #but obviously life said no to that so flashback time #sort of a ''composite timeline'' of the day's events #since i wanted to mention everyone that got her a present #so complete canon-ness for ship verses will obviously vary #just know some variation of it happened regardless #needed something to write to get my creativity pumping so

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quoththesaven · 7 years ago

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Similarly Jealous

Through the halls of the seasonal ghost town, a tumbleweed and I slowly roll down. Passing the principal’s’ office to reach room 36, Summer English 12 with Mr. Grover, I overhear Principal Escal, scolding the summer few school boys who got too many detentions.

“Rebellious subjects, enemies to peace, profaners of this neighbor-stained steel, Will they not hear? What, ho! You men, you beasts,” She cracked a ruler on a desk, wishing she could pull out the paddle. For somebody who banned Romeo and Juliet from being a school play, she sure can quote it. I wonder if this could be used to my advantage…or, my disadvantage…

There he sat, in my seat, nonetheless. “Mr. Grover told me to come to class to discuss rehearsals,” He says with a smug smile. I point to the empty seat to his left, and he gets up. “Oh, was this you seat? Hmm, had no idea…” He was here last week, and if this is his way of me giving him attention, this attention will get him nowhere. I don’t like that quality about him at all the majority of the time. Rarely is it clever.

When the teacher enters with the jar, Chris jumps up, and volunteers to read the first poem. He pulled out the poem on top, written on a notecard, in a girl’s handwriting, most likely. He approaches the podium, and clears his throat obnoxiously.

her hair

her eyes

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

She’s so plain

And we’re so similar

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

Yet somehow

She upstages me

In everything

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

In school

In sports

In love

“Ooh, looks like somebody’s a little jealous of Miss Capulet!” Chris mutters under his breath, but just audible enough for me to hear. There are many girls in here with brown hair, Rebecca, Penny, that one girl that never talks, and that other girl whose name I think is Theresa, but she has blue eyes.

Chris walked past me, brushing against my shoulder, and put the poem up on the board. Penny raises her hand. Mr. Grover and Chris both allow her to guess, and of course, she guesses me. “I’m sorry if this is your wake up call,” Chris goes on to her, “but there is no way Mary wrote that about you. She’s smarter than you, she’s more athletic than you, and she’s prettier and nicer than you,” My jaw drops open, just as her does.

“How nice of you to lie to save the poor girl from embarrassment,” Scoffs Penny, and she looks to me to say something.

“He’s right, in theory. I’d never be jealous of the Devil,” Penny stands in rage as Grover orders us to be civil. “He doesn’t know you, and he doesn’t know me,” I calmly continue to her, “but I don’t steal, I don’t cheat, and I don’t expect a golden ticket. Can you say the same for yourself?” She tries to say she has never stolen any item. I never said she did. She says how she has gotten all the grades she deserved. I never said she didn’t. She does, however, find that she’ll go see the pearly gates no matter what she does, as long as she asks for forgiveness.

“That’s enough, girls. This isn’t Midsummer’s.” Grover demands, and it is over. After class, I remember the fight, and provoke it, in the back parking lot. She tied up her hair in a bun, and set down her books a yard away from mine. Grover had already left, and so had Escal, and everyone else. It was just us. One on one. It was a completely fair fight.

“Let me guess,” she starts, circling me, acting so much tougher than she is, “he told you, and now, you’re here to fight his battle for him, since he’s a cripple, right? I bet you’d love to see those pictures I keep in my desk.” Her smile reminds me of a serial killers, about to pounce like a lion upon their prey. I tried to recreate that same look with my gaze.

“I can’t believe you made him do that,” I let out, losing my anger for disappointment in a miniscule moment of weakness. She scoffed at me, finding that thought of forcing it upon him to be so preposterous.

“You make it sound like it was a challenge. All I needed to do was get him buzzed enough to do what I wanted…” she trailed off, recalling the evening from which the photos originated. Was it beer? Drugs? God only knows what went on that horrendous night.

“You can’t just rape him–” It’s such a taboo word, and it really shouldn’t be. It should be talked about, in school, in the home, in life. It happens everywhere. It’s why my dad doesn’t like me going into the cities without him or Nick. It is inescapable, for everyone, it seems. It’s not just about male pedophiles and second grade girls. It happens to boys, too, and even in the armies. But if anyone says a word about it and they’re the victim, it’s their fault.

“Oh calm down,” she interrupts, “I didn’t rape him. He was awake, and besides, he totally wanted it,” Liar. That’s what all the rapists say. Only this time, he wasn’t “asking for it” by wearing something skimpy.

“He wasn’t able to say no–” Just because he was awake, doesn’t mean that he was consenting. He would have never done that without his, loss of inhibitions, with whatever way she managed that one. She took advantage of the poor boy, and that’s not fair to him. She probably didn’t even use protection. Yet another thing we don’t talk about nearly enough.

“Of course not,” she again speaks before I can finish my thought, “just look at me.” I wish i didn’t have to. I might be sick… “I look like you, only better, and, I’m not a total prude. What boy, especially one as manipulative as him, could resist such an opportunity when their fantasy chick–no matter how gross the fantasy–won’t even admit it.”

“I’m not– shut up.” I’m not a prude. I just don’t put out to the entire football team. And soccer. And baseball. But I’m not shaming her, either. She can do whatever she wants…as long as the other party–or, parties–agree to it, too.

“Exactly, Virgin Mary. And I don’t lie to my best friend every single day.” It’s not really everyday, just the few days he’s asked. He hasn’t asked in a long time, which means he’s probably due. But I still can’t shake the feeling that she’s a monster. It almost reminds me of that huge murder case, but that’s a bit extreme.

“…you really hurt him. Don’t you get it? You stole his innocence, and you’re not even sorry.”

She laughed at me for calling it that, but really, that’s how they’ve taught us all through Sunday school. It’s a sense of purity he can never retrieve, and his mother would end up being the next one on trial for a murder case if she knew about this.

“Why would i be? He’s an idiotic moron who has no balls. He’s perfect for you really.” I didn’t know how to respond to her. Still encircling like a vulture, she treats me like I’m nothing. Not even worth swooping up for scraps. Just a source of entertainment. Calculating it, she’s got me beat on words. Her insults have always been pretty with the Jones’s and I have none. But, with having a brother like Nick, I’ve got the upper hand when it comes to sticks and stones.

“I don’t care what you say or do to me. But don’t you dare even think about coming near him, or anyone else I care about, ever again. Or else.” Nick used to take karate, and I’ve been building up strength and muscle with soccer. We fought often, and never again once I came out victorious. I can do this. I can fight. I can win.

“Or else, what? I get called a sinner again?” I grabbed her shirt by the collar, holding her there, and punched her right in the eye. After using all my force to have her face meet my fist, I let go of her, throwing her off balance so she hit the ground. It was one of the most satisfactory things I’ve ever accomplished. And yet, I will tell no one of it. I can’t.

“Go to hell,” I say, and walk back to my things, and bike home. She’s the one with no guts, and she has no glory to go with it. I laughed the entire way back home. Walking in, I quickly washed off my bloody knuckles. My mother was in the kitchen, and came to check on me. Luckily, she didn’t see it, but I prayed she wouldn’t get a phone call from Penny’s mom. I wonder if she’s still lying there on the grass. It is an image I would never be able to erase.

“Mary, come on down for dinner, then afterwards, I made some cookies that you can take up to the hospital, okay?” My mother was always baking in her spare time. I heard the phone ring, and I ran to answer it. It was her. Not Penny’s mother, but Penny. I pretended to be my mother, and listen to her whole act of how she was the real victim, and how it was “unprecedented”.

I tried my best accent, “I know my daughter, Penny, and I know you, too. Don’t call here again, and don’t talk about it again, because whatever reasoning she had, you probably deserved what you got.” I made my mom sound a lot cooler than she would have been, but eventually, it would have come to that. “God works in mysterious ways.” I hung up, and went down to eat.

#tiamus #mine #ya

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nofomoartworld · 8 years ago

Text

Art F City: We Went to Frieze, Part One: Seagull Poop, People Poop, and Demon Poop

The Frieze entrance. Photo: Paddy Johnson

Every year Frieze installs a massive tent on Randall’s Island and lures jetsetters from across the globe to its contemporary art fair. This year, the fair expanded its usual roster of contemporary art galleries to include a few secondary market stalwarts as well. Newcomers to the fair included Bernard Jacobson Gallery, Castelli Gallery, and Axel Vervoordt and Eykyn Maclean.

That’s not a huge change in the landscape of the fair, but notably the fair’s director, Victoria Siddall, told the Art Newspaper recently that there was a significant uptick in applications from galleries in this market. Is Frieze grooming the New York market for an edition of their London-based Frieze Masters (a fair focused on secondary market art works)? Only time will tell.

Meanwhile, Frieze New York is much better than usual. Art fair standards that drag these events down—geometric abstraction, process based abstraction, and assembly line art works by A-list artists—were few and far between. Overall, the work on view seemed unusually fresh and thoughtful. Neither are words we normally use to describe art fair art, let alone that at Frieze.

Jon Rafman, Dream Journal, 2017, single-channel video

Michael: The first artwork we saw entering Frieze this year was a painting by Tala Madani of a man crawling away from the viewer, scrotum in tow. The last piece we saw was a Jon Rafman animation that involved voluptuous young women wearing a xanax cap, popping demons’ pimples, navigating holes in space time, and pooping balls of demon blood.

Paddy: Well, technically speaking the first work we saw was an Elmgreen & Dragset piece at Massimo De Carlo that placed a plaster vulture on top of a wire fence and gate with a sign that read “Miracle”. It seemed like an appropriate way to start the fair. I interpreted this message to mean that as fair visitors, we’re all scavengers seeking the false hope that art provides.

Michael: Ha! I literally had to convince myself it wasn’t a reference to the gated-off holy town (with meta-promotion) in HBO’s The Leftovers. But I’m pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed Frieze this year. In a strange way, some of the booths reminded me of NADA a few years ago, back when we actually liked NADA. By that I mean the boring, fussy, predictable stuff we expect from “mature” fairs seems to have retreated significantly at Frieze. So many booths this year felt fun, for lack of a better word.

A few quickly-identifiable trends:

Political work that didn’t take itself too seriously (and some that did).

Less video and installation.

Artists referencing classical architecture in new ways (works that wouldn’t look out of place in an old townhouse with a very modern renovation, perhaps?)

Afro-centric photography

Playful paintings (Plenty of figuration including strange nudes or more-fun-looking abstraction).

More people wearing Comme des Garçons than I had ever seen in one room in real life. (Thanks Met Gala).

Text based neon

Mirrors on furniture

Seagull paintings with poop

Here are some of the highlights (and a few lowlights) from Frieze, with more to come tomorrow:

Elmgreen & Dragset at Massimo De Carlo

Tala Madani at David Kordansky Gallery

R.H. Quaytman, “D. Kasper”, 2017, Silkscreen ink, diamond dust, gesso on two wood panels with self. Miguel Abreu Gallery.

Paddy: Miguel Abreu Gallery’s stock and trade might best be described as careful formalism paired with academic intelligence, and the booth showcased some of the best versions of this ranging from a Liz Deschenes striped chromogenic print to a Hans Bellmer photograph of a doll dismembered and bound. None of these works photograph well, including the R.H. Quaytman above made with diamond dust. I’m assuming the work above refers to artist Dawn Kasper, who perhaps most famously transplanted her studio to the Whitney Biennial in 2015. Normally, Quaytman has a tome of background that goes into her paintings. None of that is visible here, though. It’s just a foot ornamented with lines diamond dust—a rather pristine representation of a performance artist whose studio looks like a hoarders depot.

Michael: That’s funny: this is the kind of work I was excited to see less of this year. I was bored almost immediately upon walking into the booth.

Paddy: Why?

Michael: I suppose it all felt familiar? I think I was in a headspace of wanting to be surprised all day and this just looked like such an art fair booth. Even when I found kinda average works from artists I really love (Marilyn Minter at Salon 94, for example) I just wanted to move on to something new.

Paddy: I’d agree that the Bellmer’s were lesser works from his overall oeuvre, but the quality of the Liz Deschenes wowed and surprised me. (It is made up of white glossy stripes and impossible to photograph, so sorry—no reproduction here.) It’s exactly the kind of work I’d dismiss as easy minimalist abstraction, except that in the same way that a Daniel Buren stripe painting can kind of vibrate from the wall, so too did the subtle undulations of the fading black and white stripes in her print. If there was any way to photograph it I would have made it a highlight.

Adriano Costa at Mendes Wood DM

Michael: I can’t tell if Adriano Costa’s work is terrible or brilliant… and for that I have a total art crush. We first spotted a painting comprising spray paint on ugly HGTV-makeover-show-looking tiling, which read “My Boyfriend is Vegan”. I literally LOLed. Another piece features real tools sewn to the canvas and another is covered in knee-length socks the artist has ironed-on phrases to. The majority of these socks just ask “FANCY A FUCK?”

Paddy: I suppose if you’re going to put text on socks affixed to a painting that’s a reasonable message?

John Currin at Gagosian, Installation view

I’m not sure I can forgive John Currin for being a Republican, but I have to acknowledge the skill of these drawings. The left half of the booth is weaker than the right, which tends to have a few more fully rendered images that have been more thought out. As per usual with Currin, the weirder, the better.

John Currin at Gagosian

Andres Serrano, “America” at Galerie Nathalie Obadia

Michael: Boy, French/Belgian Galerie Nathalie Obadia probably thought they had hit the mother-of-all-timely/conceptual-bombs when someone remembered “Oh yeah, didn’t Andres Serrano do a photo series after 9/11 where he took pictures of Muslim girls and Mexican workers and Donald Trump for some reason and American flags with blood on them and called it ‘America’? Like back when Donald Trump was just a weird C-List celebrity? So deep and prescient!”

The problem with this improbably hot-button-relevant series from over a dozen years ago is that the work is just terrible. The fact that Serrano’s response to 9/11 was to photograph “BLACK PEOPLE! WHITE PEOPLE! INDIAN PEOPLE! FAMOUS PEOPLE!” like a buy-the-world-a-coke commercial (that’s selling me what, exactly?) is so cheesy. That this series now looks important because it features Donald Trump as a sitter and he’s an asshole to the demographics of the other sitters just makes this more cringe-worthy.

Paddy: These aren’t even good commercial portraits. The backgrounds looks like they’re made from cheap colored gels and the only visual trick to the work is that he’s managed to infuse the skin tones with some of the same lighting tones. Someone needs to show his bunny rabbit series. There’s no intellectual heft to them either, but there, the cheeseball backgrounds seem funny—like intentional faux-preciousness for an already ridiculous concept—rabbit portraits.

Roman Ondak, “Swap”, 2011, Performance, edition 3 of 5 at Esther Schipper.

Paddy: Okay, I know this looks like a terrible photo of this poor lad, but it’s actually incredibly illustrative of the annoying qualities in this performance, which is why we’re using it. (Also, it’s the only photo we have.) The performance title, “Swap”, tells a viewer everything they need to know—the guy pictured above sits at a table for four days, swapping one item for another, in the hopes of swapping upwards. It’s an art fair, though, so when we saw him all he’d been able to do was swap business cards.

Michael, you refused his business card swap offer when you were approached, explaining that that’s the last thing you want more of at a fair. When he tried to tell you this card would be art, I lost my manners. “OoooOOOOooooh, Art!” I told him, laughing hysterically. After that he refused to talk to me.

Anyway, apologies to the man in the chair, but this Roman Ondak performance deserves a special place in hell. What in God’s name is the purpose of this piece? To unpack and aggrandize the concept of swapping? Sell someone else.

Michael: I kept thinking this performance was never meant for an art fair. At a gallery in a warehouse district in Berlin (the gallery’s hometown) I am sure the exchanges would be much more interesting. Here, of course the only thing people would have with them are business cards or maybe an overpriced bottle of juice. Don’t they make you check all your personal effects at the door of the tent?

Paddy: I still think he should have took the elastic a nearby photographer offered him. He could have done better with that.

from Art F City http://ift.tt/2p2UdPD via IFTTT

#IFTTT #Art F City

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wingsoverbros · 8 years ago

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“Regarding Dean - Knowledge is power, and Ignorance can be a bit of an issue on a hunt” or “My thoughts on SPN 12.11″

For previous episodes: 12.01 - 12.02 - 12.03 - 12.04 - 12.05 - 12.06 - 12.07 - 12.08 - 12.09 - 12.10

Now, on to Supernatural 12.11 - "Regarding Dean"

Supernatural is a show that can sometimes have an uneven quality to it, depending on the writer. The quality often depends on the writers ability to effectively write both high-quality story and good characterization. Luckily, this season has been quite successful in both of these areas. I'm glad to say that we can add this episode, written by Meredith Glynn, to the list of quality episodes.

One of the impressions I came to in my university psychology classes was that a person is basically a mix of core personality and his or her learned history, experiences, and skills. When you strip away the later elements, you get the core person. Effectively, it's who the person would be if they had no negative experiences. Dean's core was sweet, liked people, and cared that he was hurting/killing them. He must have been a lovely child before Mary died.

I was also amused that the core personality was so easily entertained. I hope whoever was connected to that voodoo doll is ok, cause he must have had one heck of bad ache in his face there for a bit. I was a little surprised that he was so "cool" about the dead body, though, considering his mild distress over finding out he had hurt people. I certainly wouldn't be so laid-back about it, in his position. Probably just the difference between a boy and a girl, though.

The protectiveness in Dean, though, is clearly part of the core personality. Despite having lost almost all of his identity and memories, Dean still remembers how to shoot a gun and shoots both attacking witch without blinking. I guess some Hunting skills are instinctive, a kind of muscle memory?

One of the things that have delighted me this season is the frequent appearance of past canon. The fact that bits from many of our favorite episodes have been popping up in episodes by the new writers implies that the writers did some extensive homework prior to the beginning of writing this season, and that they understand how important it is that things remain consistent. It shows that they have pride in their work and in the series. That's always a good thing to see in a series that's this old. I also loved that the bits have been from all over the series, implying that the homework was a series-wide review, not just the "Watch seasons 1-3 and skim 4 and 5 and you'll be good" bit that we got before. Just in this episode, we got Dean seriously wielding the flashlight from season 4 and Dean interacting with a bunny, a call-back to his comments about Witches and Bunnies from "Malleus Maleficarum" in season 3. Other canon reappearances included Dean's sweet tooth (previously shown when Dean devoured an entire bag of candy in one sitting in "It's the Great Pumpkin, Sam Winchester" in season 4) and the fact that Dean steals from crime scenes (past occurrences include the booze in "Wishful Thinking" in season 4, the dragon gold in "Like a Virgin" from season 6 and the Viagra from "Into the Mystic" in season 11).

I loved that he took such joy over the fact Cas is an angel... and his best friend. It gives me a hope that season 1 Dean might have been a bit more excited and interested in Cas than I originally estimated. I also liked his comment about "Don't call Mom or Cas about this..." to Sam, as it implies that he's concerned about what they'd think about situation. He cares about not worrying them and about not looking helpless or dumb in their vicinity. He's concerned about their opinion of him. If that doesn't make it obvious that what he said last week about Cas being family is what he truly thinks, then I don't know what would.

He was also physically very touchy-freely. I giggled when he started messing with Rowena's hair and admiring it. It, combined with the sandwich scene of "Dark Side of the Moon" and the "I wuv Hugs" t-shirt of the same scene, definitely makes me think that Dean may very well have been a "Cuddle monster" type of child, a momma's boy. No wonder he took to the "protect Sammy" job so well, reshaping himself into what eventually became a pseudo-maternal role. He already had (as this season has shown us) a virtually identical personality to Mary, he had his admittedly-vague memories of her to model his actions off of, and he'd need the distraction of care-giving to give him time to adjust to the stresses of losing his closest parent and growing used to the inevitable changes in John. That must have been one of the most stressful years of Dean's life, prior to the Hell countdown year.

Rowena has certainly adjusted well, hasn't she? Using her magic to switch cards in poker games isn't that far from how the guys gain extra money. It also has the benefit of being low-victim, which keeps her under the radar with hunters. Very smart of her. She also seemed pleased (or at least amused) at the idea of being a form of magic consultant for the Winchesters. I guess she's come around to Crowley’s way of thinking? Better on the side of the Winchesters than their enemy. Both have short lives, but allies live a little longer.

Speaking of Crowley, last we saw her, he'd grabbed her and poofed away after caging Lucifer in "LOTUS". How did she end up on her own again? Do you think he just dropped her off at a hotel on his way back to the asylum? Seems awfully congenial of him. I guess they've reached a détente?

I appreciated how human Rowena was in this episode. I actually felt sorry for her during her discussion with Dean about how he was good, and what she felt about seeing Chuck and Amara and how they acted at the end of last season. Rowena has always been a bad-ass, but I've loved how over the last 2 seasons, they've layered in bits of the person she might have been if she hadn't chosen the path of the dark. I live in hope that, in the end, they might give her a hero's path to redemption before they inevitably kill her off. I want the other characters, both the guys and Crowley (and maybe Gavin), to mourn her when she passes on. Such an awesome character deserves that.

For that reason, too, I loved that for a large bit of the episode, it was Rowena to the rescue of both of the guys. True, she had hopes to get the book as a reward, but she still put her ass on the line in a situation that she knew might not go her way. That's something her son didn't do until he'd known the guys for a lot longer then she has currently.

The information about Rowena having past history with the Celtic Witch family was interesting. In a similar situation, I definitely would have gone looking for people to learn from and align to. It's the sign of a survivor, and Rowena is definitely one of those. I'm amazed that she was able to deal with them at all, frankly, if the episode was in any way indicative of their attitudes and behaviors at that time. They called her "Raggedy-Anne" and threw her out, and that couldn't have settled at all well with Rowena, who is admittedly a bit proud. I wonder how long has her magic been unstable, and how she's lasted this long with unstable power. For that matter, how does a witch with a natural but unstable gift for magic manage to render both herself and a young friend immortal? And is the "Book of the Damned" really that powerful, that it's stabilized her abilities? What about the price for that? What *is* the price for that? There's still so much to mine in her background and story.

I was surprised that they mentioned that Rowena offered to sleep with all three witches during her past attempts to stay in the group. Offering to sleep with the guys, I expected, but the girl? It was a bit more progressive than I expected from this show when they included a "No Homo" mention of Dean sleeping with a bartender (apparently, while still in the bar, which distracted me as I tried to figure out where the hell they could have managed that). It and the "Riding Larry" bit had me momentarily convinced we've found Buckleming 2.0, but that comment from the witch kinda threw me. Thankfully, whether she is as "No Homo, but have a tease" as Buckleming or not, she's better at plot, pacing and retcons, so we'll just have to wait and see.

I loved the post-it notes idea. Sam suggested it on a bit of a snippy moment, but it definitely came in handy. And I greatly enjoyed how Rowena used them, especially the "No!" on the grenade launcher. Poor Dean. He'll never get to use that grenade launcher.

It's a good thing that Sam remembered to grab the book, though. Rowena is awesome, but having her loose with a powerful book of magic isn't a great plan.

The witches getting hit with the bullets and then just folding over and going down kinda distracted me, as I'd just rewatched "Man's best friend with Benefits" the other day. I was expecting them to go up in the cloud of vaporized witch that they showed whenever someone got hit with the "Witch-killing" stuff in season 8. But then I looked back at more recent witch-based episodes that they've used the bullets in, namely "Love Hurts" in season 11, and realized that they didn't go up in smoke last season, either. I guess using that effect for "Witch-killer bullets" on a consistent basis is too expensive? Is it because they use it in bullet form? Smaller dose, smaller effect?

Related note: In "Love Hurts", Dean complains that they need a better name for the bullets, but they clearly haven't picked one yet. On the basis that if you hit a witch with one, they fold like a wet suit, can we call them Dorothy Bullets? Just a thought.

The look on Sam's face when Dean said "Who's this hippy?" was priceless. Such big puppy-eyes. Dean now owes him dinner at someplace offering nice salads.

Random final comment -

Dean is a Dory fan. I've got a great mental image now of Dean sitting there just loving all the Pixar Disney movies. I bet he's even a fan of the Disney Princess movies, but only watches them if Sam is asleep or otherwise occupied. Dean, the closet Disney fan. (I wonder if he likes the Narnia movies, or if the sight of a magic closet gives him the heebie-jeebies. Goodness knows, he's spent enough time in one.)

Supernatural episodes work best if a writer has the ability to give both the story and the characters justice. Luckily, this episode lucked out in that regard. It was rather enjoyable, especially for a filler episode. I'll look for future episodes from this writer with an open mind and I look forward to the rest of the season in general.

#Supernatural #SPN 12.11

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