#Sure he did place that huge responsibility of one day being the leader of an army back onto his son's shoulders. BUT! He barely did-

[clover-the-awesomest]

THIS.

THIS IS EVERYTHING TO ME.

by reading this comic you've entered a legally binding contract to go vote for gemini's team in the sep au comp to help us tie <3

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[universallydestinytaco]

“Pursuit of Happiness” (ONE SHOT)

🔥🔥🔥🔥🎉🎉🎉🎉 🤩🤩🤩🤩 WAKE UP BABE NEW AU DROPPED!!!

So basically what if it was Mr. President except in Jimble’s place it’s Charlie who is the much-maligned and unpopular US President in this show’s universe so when he calls Smiling Friends for a solution he meets his old College roomie Pim who actively tries to improve his reputation and after some wacky hijinks, Charlie gets hit with a realization or two.

Charlie thought of his life as a rags-to-riches story of sorts, it felt like yesterday he was in his crummy studio apartment on his gamer PC, next thing he knew he was elected President of the United States of America after a successful if not eccentric campaign promising a future in the hands of a less out of touch old rich man and instead on a young fresh face who really knew what the people wanted, even being nicknamed “King Dompler” amongst the 20-something voters he greatly appealed to….too bad there was just one teensy problem: Charlie never really studied in politics or law, so he never really had an experience in governing a population of people, but the people never thought much of it at first. “What could possibly go wrong?”, indeed!

While his Inauguration was initially a roaring success that felt more like a wild teen party than a formal event with guests chanting “King Dompler” in his honor, it seemed a bad omen reared its ugly held once the beloved former President was rushed to the hospital from food poisoning and passed away the next day. Charlie payed his respects where they were due, but didn’t think that one moment was a foreshadowing of the next four years, right?

During his first day in office he passed everyone of his voters a free vape kit as a “thank you”, only to be widely condemned by many anti-smoking campaigns and his less-than graceful and mature response by flipping them the bird on social media did nothing to quell it, then he’d realize too soon that his choice of letting his buddy Jombo be Vice President was a huge mistake because while he was away during Vacation not only did Jombo raise hell he straight up flew out of the state and pinned the whole thing on Charlie! Charlie tried to make it up to the people with his attempt at improving the economy with the proposal in the form of a rousing speech that ignited initial hype only for his deed to go down in flames alongside the stock market. As if that wasn’t enough bad press many where sorely disappointed he didn’t bother having the White House decorated for the annual Christmas Party where the press expected an orient display with a huge Christmas tree only to be met with just a single stubby branch with one ornament hanging from the top….but that was just the icing on the cake! Charlie’s slovenly, drunken display was seen as outrageously disrespectful to the rest of the world leaders he invited and the overall representation of his own country. Within an entire year Charlie went from being seen as the mascot of a perfect future for the US to a universally-loathed laughingstock and an embarrassment to the nation to the point where his girlfriend-turn-First Lady, Zoey, publicly broke up with him while furiously spitting out how she wound up saddled with an utterly inconsiderate and buffoonish prick in the first place, needless to say that event sure had the internet spamming emojis of laughing faces at the President’s expense. To add insult to injury, Dj Spitz who once endorsed President Charlie, dropped a topical diss-track titled “King Dork” as a mean-spirited play on his initial nickname.

One morning Charlie sighed, reminiscing his carefree 20s while signing papers as he heard a jeering crowd outside the Oval Office flinging compost at the windows and holding up signs that read: “King Dork” and “F**ck Dompler”, not even bothering to ask security to shoo them away, he just wanted to save face by telling everyone that this was all just an elaborate joke and go back to his normal life, but then his inner-Alpha Male chewed him out like a yelling drill sergeant nagging him in his mind to not give up like a coward and to prove himself as a worthy leader….but how? After he called a little company called “Smiling Friends”, a helicopter flew in to the court yard where out came a familiar face Charlie hadn’t seen in years: a little pink man in a sharp suit being escorted by security into the White House.

“Pim, is that you?!”

Pim immediately ran into Charlie with his arms wide for hugging, gushing about how proud he was his best friend was given the esteemed privilege of serving an entire nation (even if he was only serving mistake after mistake), Charlie didn’t feel like explaining how it went at the moment, he just wanted to take his mind off things. First he gave Pim a tour of the White House and all the splendor of the interior. Pim happily infodumped about his knowledge on US history and politics while naming who’s-who on the portraits of important figures on the wall and going into detail their roles in shaping America. Charlie even felt inspired by the stories of once unpopular presidents that restored their good image by the amazing deeds they performed….that was when Charlie remember the exact reason why he called Smiling Friends in the first place! He invited Pim to dinner to recap in-depth the whole of his disastrous first year in office, that was when Pim channeled his inner quirky cartoon character by snapping his fingers and proposing a couple solutions that could fix everything! Yaaay! :D

Charlie went with the first plan: hiring a team to transplant trees in places that needed some greenery, he picked out a breed that produced tasty-looking fruit that resembled apples, but it was discovered too late those weren’t apples but highly toxic, spore-bearing pods meant for weeding out other species. Okay that was a bust to say the least. The next suggestion involved pouring thousands of dollars to a promising charity helping the poor but right after the generous donation was dolled out the charity turned out to have been an elaborate scam by a dangerous criminal who used up the money for an entire supervillain lair full of weapons to terrorize the public with, happily announcing his ruse and thanking President Charlie Dompler for being oh-so naive enough to fall into his trap. The third suggestion? Well, Pim was still trying to think about it.

While the boys where back to the metaphorical drawing board, Pim was enjoying himself in the White House garden, Charlie couldn’t help but feel his heart melt feeling the presence of his cheerful, innocent friend gushing over the flowers and the bugs that populated the area, suddenly Charlie didn’t feel like he was in Washington anymore, but he was back in Pennsylvania at a park where he felt the energy to join Pim in basking in the springtime atmosphere, allergies be damned.

….

The next day, Pim and President Charlie flew out of Washington and back to Pennsylvania for a day away from the hustle-and-bustle of the capitol and even then Charlie still had to put up with the mockery and rude comments from the public, which he didn’t really care for at this point since he was already desensitized from the trolls who bullied him online 24/7. The boy payed a visit to Daveland and visited all the rides and attractions there, while sitting at a park bench enjoying the snacks they bought, Pim initiated had a fun conversation about all the times they spent together in College and the brief stint at their old jobs at, you guessed it, Salty’s! Charlie felt he was truly back at home, like he was lucky enough to get his hands on a time travel device and go back to a much happier time in his life with his incredibly sweet and supportive friend who stood by him every step of the way.

President Charlie then had a strong, heavy-hearted epiphany: That he never wanted to actually be the President to begin with. As you see, he got super drunk at a New Years party, then he climbed up on top of the DJ’s turntable set and went on a boastful speech about how he was going to be the common everyday man who would run for President against all odds and serving his fellow common folk, and while the speech wasn’t the most coherent and the grammar was messy, the proposal was delivered so authentically that everyone thought he was serious about this goal and so the inspired crowd cheered him on the entire night, chanting: “King Dompler! King Dompler!”. Charlie sobered up the very next day and found his speech was uploaded online to a thunderous applause in the comments section, speculating all the potential of having a common man like Charlie govern over the US. Giving in to peer-pressure to fulfill the void in his self-esteem, Charlie decided he’d run with it and the rest was history for better or worse.

It wouldn’t take long for President Charlie to realize what he really wanted when he and Pim were walking back to the latter’s place since no hotels wanted to deal with a controversial figure like President Charlie. The Sun set a long time ago and stars were appearing in the darkening sky as the Moon began to radiate it’s beams onto the streets and the daytime warmth chilled out into a crisp cold atmosphere where the boys began to see their breaths in the moonlight. Pim looked a little cold just wearing his iconic white shirt and blue shorts so Charlie took his jacket off and gave it to the smaller of the two, to which Pim thanked him and put the article on himself, feeling warm and snug inside during the rest of the walk. When they arrived at Pim’s cozy little home he prepared a simple yet scrumptious homecooked Shrimp Alfredo (This fanfic is sponsored by Hello Fresh, today you can get 99% your first order by entering promo code LOLJK) and for dessert, they indulged in pints of ice cream. Pim picked out strawberry cheesecake and Charlie picked one of those experimental flavors. The two relaxed in the couch with their dessert while streaming Meepflix, and it seemed Charlie really was just one of the people again, snuggled up to the sweetest man the world’s ever known, who fell asleep cuddling the taller critter so he pulled up a blanket to cover them both up so they could doze off together without a care in the world. As Charlie was about to reunite with Pim on the Dreamland Express, he thought to himself: “Why can’t everyday be like this?”…

One week later, Pim spent his Friday morning making himself a batch of waffles as the coffee machine was ready to perk, preparing for his last day of work before planning out his weekend. Normally he’d hang out with Alan, Glep or his friend circle outside of work but everyone had plans, while Pim understood, he didn’t being by himself for long, he already felt lonely enough every morning and night being the only resident in the house. As Pim waited for his waffles in the iron to get ready, he scrolled through his social media feed and was hit with (not so) shocking news: President Charlie resigned! Complete with a heartfelt and apologetic speech where he held himself accountable for every screw up he made during his run and that he didn’t care about who replaced him as long as they had their shit together and didn’t make the same mistakes he did, after finishing his speech, he immediately bolted out of scene and hopped into a helicopter taking him back to only God knows where…just then Pim received a knock at the door, turning out to be You-Know-Who with a bouquet of flowers and the happiest look Pim ever saw on his face.

“Thank you, Pim, for making me see the light.” Charlie spat out while explaining: “I was miserable not just because I was literally winging it and had no idea what I was doing, there was something missing in my life I sorely needed…” Pim smiled and jokingly asked: “A hearty and balanced breakfast? I’m making waffles and I can’t exactly finish all of them myself.” After seconds of silenced passed, the two critters burst into laughter and embraced with a passionate hug.

….

Fast forward to some time in the future, Ex-President Charlie got a fresh start in the town he hailed from, the landlord of his old Apartment was kind enough to let him have his old complex back and he got a job working alongside Pim as a Smiling Friend, rekindling some positive relations after his disastrous stint, heck he even managed to reconcile with his ex-wife Zoey who felt she was too hard on him during the heat of the moment and was super supportive of whoever was lucky enough to be his new love interest. Charlie and Pim hung out after work like old times doing silly things, spent nights at each other’s homes for Breakfast

and Dinner, ect. so it didn’t take long for them to go from being “guys being pals” to officially dating within the span of the seventh year they’ve known each other (it was about time too), the third date they’d go on was at a gorgeous beach in Brazil, where Charlie found himself in a Hawaiian shirt and trunks watching the sunset on a beach towel, accompanied by Pim in the cutest sundress cozied up near his lovable doofus of a boyfriend. Charlie may have been the worst President in recent memory, but at least to Pim, he was the best boyfriend anybody could ever have.

“This is the life.”

[vladdyissues]

"Torrent of Terror" ep. is really dumb about Vlad's evil plan but it's also such a HUGE fan service of pompous pep. I mean, they literally went for a date! There are 2 things I'm wondering:

1. How can Vortex problem be re-setted to Vlad stay evil genius, not become a dumb villain?

2. If Danny being only 15 was asking for a foot massage from Vlad in a public place (yea, people left the game centre after an "artificial rain inside", but it's still public place!), what things would he ask for being older? or dating Vlad? I have some smutty thoughts but it isn't me! It's that perverted little badger!

Hnnnn Torrent of Terror and Eye for an Eye are some of the main reasons I voted for Season 3 in that "Which DP Season Is Your Fave" poll that was circulating a while back. So much food for us Pompeppers.

But yeah, Vlad's evil plan was pretty dumb. Here's my response to your first point:

⛔ Vlad going public with his magic weather device that looks like a vintage barn thermometer

✅ Vlad becoming a cult leader by secretly manipulating the weather and therefore obtaining the adoration and respect (and control) of the entire world by solving their climate crises one by one. Hail Vlad, the savior of earth!

And for your second point:

"You never gave me that foot massage, you know."

Vlad lifted his lips from Danny's neck, his eyebrows knitting with confusion. "Foot massage?"

Grinning secretively, Danny pressed his back against Vlad's chest—and his rear against the burgeoning erection in Vlad's pants. "Back when you were mayor. Vortex. I accidentally got the weather tied to my emotions."

"Oh. Oh, that's right. Heavens, Daniel, that was ten years ago."

"I know. Hard to believe it's been that long, huh."

"Mm."

Danny reached behind and urged Vlad to keep rocking against him. Vlad, however, remained preoccupied with the memory.

"You were a devious little brat, humiliating me like that."

"You deserved it."

"Hm, perhaps. You were going to make me massage your feet, but there was something else. Something more to it. A costume?"

Danny grinned. "Yeah. Not much of one."

"Oh. Good Lord, I remember now. It was a loincloth. You wanted me to put on a loincloth and massage your feet and call you 'master'." He narrowed his eyes at the side of Danny's face, smiling fondly. "Quite the fantasy. Are you sure you didn't have a crush on me then, little badger?"

"Oh, I was toast by that point. I guess seeing you naked did something to my brain."

"And just when did you see me naked, young man?"

"Come on, the Regal Hotel? When we were pranking each other and I turned the walls invisible, and the local news crew caught you on camera?"

"Oh. That."

Danny laughed. "I think you need some Centrum Silver, old man. Your memory's starting to slip."

"My memory's fine, Daniel. I just can't think straight with you grinding on me like this."

"Kind of ironic to be thinking straight now, huh?"

Stifling a chuckle, Vlad slid his hands down Danny's waist to grasp his hips. "I never got my revenge for that weekend, you know," he whispered in Danny's ear.

"Is that a threat or a promise?" Danny asked, eyebrow arching with interest.

"Oh, it's definitely a threat." He rolled Danny over and began phasing away clothing while Danny laughed and pretended to resist. They scrabbled and grunted, wrestling for dominance, before Danny finally allowed Vlad to pin his wrists. Vlad sneered down at him. "How else did you plan to extort me that day, little badger?"

Danny's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Well, after my foot massage, I was gonna have you bake a bunch of my favorite cookies, then I was gonna get in your jacuzzi with a bottle of your most expensive wine and make you feed me cookies and refill my glass until I passed out or fell asleep."

"It's a good thing Vortex showed up before then."

"Why? You would've killed me?"

"No. I'd be out an eight-hundred-dollar bottle of Dom Pérignon"—Vlad's mouth twitched coyly—"and likely have a restraining order preventing me from coming within five hundred yards of a minor."

"God, you're such a creep," Danny said, but his eyes—and another part of him, farther down—disclosed his naked excitement.

Vlad basked in the insult as if it were sunshine. "What would you demand of me now?"

"Now?" Danny pursed his lips. "Well, it's a different situation."

"Naturally. But if I had to appease you, if you were under the influence of some terrible, destructive power, how should I keep you happy?"

"I dunno. Blowjobs on demand?"

"You can do better than that."

A minute passed before the pensive frown lifted from Danny's face. "Okay, a bath. A fancy bath. You'd have to wash every inch of me and rinse me and shampoo my hair and condition it, all in a huge tub with loads of bubbles and nice scented oils and stuff."

"Very good. Please continue."

"And then I'd have you dry me off and rub lotion on me and powder me, then dress me in a silk robe and feed me chocolate-covered strawberries."

"Is that all?"

"No." Danny smirked, his eyes drifting downward. "You would have to keep me satisfied. All I'd have to do is snap my fingers and you'd get on your knees for me, at any time. I could fuck you whenever I wanted, anywhere I wanted. Over your desk. In the kitchen, the shower. And I'd always get to come first. In fact, you wouldn't be able to come at all unless I gave you permission."

"That's very wicked of you."

"Hey, I learned it from the best."

They shared a brief chuckle before Vlad spoke again. "I was going to let you choose your punishment, but I'm afraid that's too generous. I think I'll just torture you."

"Oh, please," Danny scoffed. "You're too impatient for tor—" He choked on the rest of his words as Vlad's hand went intangible, sinking through Danny's erection and into his belly. "Oh—ohh." He felt Vlad's energy move inside him, spectral fingers curving downward until they wrapped around his prostate. "Oh, God, you're serious."

Laughter rumbled in Vlad's chest. He gave the gland a gentle squeeze, and a moan escaped Danny's lips.

"An eye for an eye, little badger. Though I think you'll enjoy this much more than a foot massage." He leaned down and sealed his mouth to Danny's. His arm, intangible to his elbow, glowed in vague blue-white outlines as it moved, slowly and rhythmically, his buried hand beginning the process of milking Danny's prostate from every imaginable angle.

"You're evil," Danny gasped.

"And yet you love me."

"I can't help it."

Vlad smiled. "Shh, now. No more talking."

And apart from the pleasure-stricken cries that came much later, Danny didn't say another coherent word for the rest of the night.

[liquidstar]

Regulus- 🎈 🚨

Kari-🧣🥀

Ceres- 🐞 🍎 🎒

(And bonus if you’re up for it I’m also curious who all three would have on their kin carrd in the extreme hypothetical they’d kin because that’s ALWAYS fun to think/hear about with OCs)

This one ended up being kinda long so I'm putting it under the cut :D!

🎈 (balloon) - What does your character do at parties? Are they a wallflower or a party animal? Do they go with friends or alone?

I don’t see Regulus going to, like, normal parties. Like, he’s going to galas and shit instead. He’s social, striking up conversations with people while swirling a glass of wine or champagne in his hands. HOWEVER the exception to this is guild parties, because, well, he’s already there. I think he’d try to act the exact same way but with a red solo cup filled with spiked fruit punch. It kinda works.

🚨 (siren) - What’s your character’s relationship with the law? Have they ever been arrested? What for? What are their opinions on law enforcement?

Well, Nova Stella as a guild does do some under-the-table stuff, so Regulus not against breaking the law. But he himself doesn’t really see a need to do it, so he doesn’t. He’s a rich dude, but he’s not corrupt, so he has no real incentive to do crime. General guild opinion is that knights have mile-long sticks up their asses, which he agrees with but he also doesn’t really have any more complex thoughts on.

🥀 (wilted flower) - How does your character deal with stressful situations? Is their fear response fight, flight, freeze or fawn?

Oh, if it’s an immediate threat, absolutely flight. I mean, Kari is a speedster for a reason. Her first instinct would be to run away, because that’s what she does most of the time anyway. But for a more personal threat, something wrt relationships or general hardship in life… She might go for fawn instead. She’s very much a person who wants to be liked by others, but is often seen as annoying for being too hyper. Luckily the Pandemonium weirdos accept her, but if not for that she may have ended up repressing that.

🧣(scarf) - What comforts your oc? Is it an item? An action? A person? Whatever it is, how and why does it comfort them? 

The most comforting thing in Kari’s life is several bottles of Manic Panic hair dye. Very important for the scene kid.

No, but in all seriousness, she just finds comfort in being with people who don’t mind her quirks. I think for all the members of Pandemonium that’s true- The comfort is the guild itself, the place with the people in it.

🐞 (ladybug) - What does a perfect day look like for your oc? What do they do? Who do they see?

On an ideal day, Ceres would just like to relax. A day where all the scouts are behaving, doing quiet activities, not arguing or causing trouble. This has yet to happen though, and most likely never will. A quiet walk in the woods will have to suffice for now.

🍎 (apple) - Does your oc go to school or take classes? Did they go to college? What was/is their favorite subject? Did/do they get good grades? Did/do they enjoy school? 

Ceres was a timber scout themself at one point too! It’s basically a program that trains you to be in a guild, though some people stay to work within the scouts too. Ceres working as a leader of their own unit means they must have done pretty well! Dealing with kids is a different story though.

🎒 (backpack) - What items does your oc usually carry? Do they have a bag or just keep everything in their pockets? Do they carry a lot or a little?

You can already see their weapon of choice is a large swiss army knife! It’s useful for any scout leader, of course. Beyond that they’ll carry things to be prepared for different situations, like first aid supplies, a sewing kit, sunscreen, bug spray, water, snacks, etc.

Who would be on their kinlist?

OMG LOL I’ve never thought about this before. I’m not sure!!! I can definitely say Homare A3 was a huge influence for Regulus’s personality, so he’s gotta be on there, but I also think that if you explained the concept of kinning to Regulus he’d be like “Then I shall be the Concept of Beauty and Grace” and you’re like. “OK” Kari is the only one here who would actually genuinely be into kinning. Gir from Invader Zim and other iconic scenecore characters would be there for sure. Pon and/or Zi from Pon and Zi mayhaps lol. As for Ceres… I feel like Ceres is too tired to keep up w the concept of kinning. They’d be like, “Fine. I’m Fluttershy. Can I go now?” but like they really are kinda Flutershy tbh

[galaxy-fleur]

Warm comfort after a job well done

Some soft Aruna/Chris because they've been brewing on my mind lately. Nothing like a huge, burly man being a massive little spoon at heart.

Aruna info-post!

Additional one-shot bellow <3

Chris lets out a long, weary sigh as his legs drag him up a route he now knows by heart, smooth, automatic doors sliding open with quiet hum to let him through. His haggard appearance doesn't fit among the squeaky clean lab environment, making him stick out like a sore thumb. He never really did look appropriate in here, though. Even on a good day. He's far too big, too rough around the edges for this pristinely tidy place. And yet, against all glaring contradictions, this was also a place to call home.

It wasn't a surprise to find Aruna right where she usually is, her back turned to him, and her hands far too busy with whatever overcomplicated project that was on her plate this time around. In their own right, they were two workaholics through and through, both living their jobs rather than just going through the motions.

Perhaps that explains how they flowed together so well.

As soon as she looked over her shoulder at her visitor, a broad smile spread across her face. He's been out on an assignment for almost a full week now, and even though that was a tried and true routine for them at this point, it always filled his chest with pure relief whenever he came back to see her safe and sound in his time away. Or, well, mostly safe and sound. While Aruna wasn't deployed out in the field nearly as frequently since her primary responsibilities were mostly limited to the lab, that didn't mean she wouldn't get herself into all kinds of bizarre incidents. Whether it was her natural carelessness or her scientific inclination, he sure didn't like just how frequently she'd get another strangely shaped bruise or a charred hair here and there.

In any case, he was far too tired out of his mind to make any remarks on her being up late for work again. He'd be a major hypocrite if he did. Truth is, he was glad she was still on the job. That meant he could come up here and see her like this.

"-You're back! I figure the mission was a success?"

He virtually collapses into the nearest lab chair with a muffled grunt after dragging his body there. Fatigue is evident in his weary eyes, his shoulders slouching as he rests his hands on his knees. Despite his efforts to project a strong exterior, his typically stern and intense gaze looks even heavier and darker due to sheer tiredness pulling him down. In here, he wasn't a tough leader, carrying the responsibility to be everyone's strength, no matter how dire the situation is. In here, he was just Chris. And Chris was so, so tired.

"...Yeah. We got the job done," he replies with a sigh, his gruff and deep voice sounding rougher and hoarser than usual. He knows he comes off as a little curt, but that's mostly because he doesn't want to discuss the job at the moment. The job is all he thought about for days on end. He had to. He needs to rest his thoughts.

Aruna's smile softens into a more understanding one as she briefly scans his body from head to toe to determine what injuries she could already pinpoint without giving it a closer look. Chris was always plagued by injuries. A few new cuts and some sporadic burn are a familiar staple, and that's on a good day. Neither of them would make a big fuss about it. But that doesn't mean they didn't give a damn, either. There was simply no point in dwelling on something that is utterly inevitable in this line of work. Thankfully, aside from utter exhaustion and a pulling ache in his bruised shoulder, there wasn't anything major to worry about this time around. He's here in the first place in part because of that.

She sets her equipment aside, swiftly removing her gloves, and approaching him in a few quick strides. One of her hands rests on his shoulder, her voice soft as she tilts her head down at him: "...You need rest. Not to be rude, but... you look like hell. Did you even go to medical for a checkup before coming here, hm?"

She knows him too well.

He lets out a trembling breath, his tired eyelids fluttering shut, his body starting to relax at her presence. Chris leans against her touch slightly, responding to her, admittedly, very valid question with a slight, stubborn huff.

"I told the rest of the team to go to medical and get examined while I went straight here. I’ll go to medical later," he mutters out with a slight dismissive wave of his hand that felt as though it took half of his remaining energy to even lift his arm up.

Aruna just sighs in clear disapproval, giving him a light, playful nudge that makes him sway in his current seat in spite of all the muscle supposed to keep him steady. Although she's usually all for consideration and understanding - sometimes a bit too much for his liking - she is also well aware that he's not all that good at taking care of himself properly. Everyone needs rest, and she, unfortunately, knew better than to trust him solely on his word.

"Alright, fine, you can rest here. But you're going to medical later, even if I have to drag your hunky butt up there myself," she hums, beginning to comb through his untidy hair, brushing off some dirt and gunpowder that had become tangled in the short locks. Probably not the most appropriate thing to do in a laboratory of all places, but they could allow themselves to break the rules sometimes. They did that far too many times to count at this point, after all.

As he leans into Aruna's hand, silently savoring the sensation of her touch, he can't help but chuckle. She may grumble, but she's still as soft and caring as ever.

"Hunky, huh?" Chris raises an eyebrow at her, a small but playful smirk pulling at the corners of his lips as he eyes his fiancé. She rolls her eyes at that, grinning down at him knowingly. Slowly, he raises his better arm and wraps it around her middle, bringing her closer to him and into his lap. Aruna just follows his lead and settles against him without protesting or even teasing him on it as she usually would. He doesn't waste much time to bury his nose against her chest, nuzzling his face against her warm skin, and wrapping a muscular arm around her back to keep her close.

Even though he's now indoors, the cold he's had to endure these past several days still bites at his cheeks, and her body heat feels like a divine escape from it. With a tired and heavy exhale, he slumps against her, resting his body on hers, even as he keeps her in his lap. At this point, it almost feels like he's using her as a personal teddy bear because of the way he eases up against her smaller frame.

Her nails lightly stroke his scalp as her hand returns up to continue combing through his hair mindlessly.

"Hunky, handsome, ridiculously stubborn... Hey, that last one seems to be true even now. I'm kind of scared what you're gonna be like when you're sixty," she adds with a playful smile, her other hand resting upon his shoulder, her thumb rubbing small soothing circles into the fabric of his turtleneck. "I'm gonna be dealing with one stubborn old man."

A warm feeling of affection fills his chest as he grins at that. God, he missed her.

"Ah, but you still fell for me anyway," Chris responds with a tired but teasing tone that comes out sounding muffled against her chest, his warm breath rolling over her skin. His muscles gradually relax as he rests against her in silence for a few peaceful minutes, before letting out a small, tired groan. There is a clear difference between her soft and mostly clear skin, which is usually untouched by direct combat or violence, and his hard and calloused body, which has seen far too much action over the years. He sighs: "...I just want to enjoy your company a little longer. The others got it a lot worse than me. Hell one of ‘em got a bullet go straight through his shoulder so he definitely needs that care way more than I do."

Aruna's smile softens a bit as she continues to silently caress his head. Despite him probably being way too heavy on her like this, she doesn't protest or complain to him one bit, taking all of his - admittedly, rather hefty - weight like a true champ. If anything, it's a clear sign of his tiredness, as he is typically very protective and careful about not being too heavy on her.

"...You should rest," she murmurs quietly. "You really need it."

He leans into her touch with a low hum. Almost like a touchstarved tomcat would, practically melting at her simple caresses.

"I just... need you right now. I need you more than sleep… can I be selfish, just this once?" Chris mumbles out faintly, his voice coming out sounding gruff and vulnerable. He is more than aware that it is far from ideal to be covered in sweat, dirt, grime, and the faint remnants of dried blood, especially when he is holding on to his fiancée like this. He is also well aware that he should probably take a shower and go up to the medical to get examined out properly. But even though he's a filthy, unkempt mess, he's far too exhausted, and all he really wants right now is to just be near her, even if it's only for a minute or two. "…I promise I’ll shower after I get some rest, I just… I need to hold you first."

Aruna leans down and kisses the top of his head.

"You can be selfish as much as you want right now," she assured softly, her hand still stroking his hair. "Just rest. I'm not going anywhere."

He nearly melts into Aruna right then and there. He exhales again, his tense muscles unwinding, further relaxing against her. The adrenaline from the mission is gradually fading from his system now that he's at home and in his fiancé's company. He wraps his arms around her waist and buries his face in her chest again, his eyes fluttering closed and his voice dropping to a gravelly whisper.

"…I’m so damn tired." He lets out another trembling sigh, soothed by her presence and the sensation of her soft hands caressing him and petting his hair. The exhaustion seeps into his bones fully, both a relief and a curse in one. "Missed you."

She lets out a quiet 'mhm' in acknowledgement, silently running her fingers through the dried out locks. He guesses his hair is probably far from the softest variety right now. But Aruna didn't mind. She never did. She was always there for him whenever he returned, through the good and the bad, willing to provide any consolation and assistance she could. After all, she understood first hand the cost he had to bear to protect the rest of the world from the bloodshed of bioterrorism. She has never once asked him to stop, even though she was probably just as worried about his safety while he was away as he was about hers. Neither did he.

This was their life, their fight, their purpose. Regardless of how hard and exhausting it was at times, neither of them could see themselves in any other place.

"How about this, big guy… I’ll let you nap here for a bit, but you will be getting your butt up to medical after you wake up. I want you to be properly checked out and treated. And you'll change out of your gear. I’m sure as hell not letting you into our bed smelling like a war zone. You stink," the scientist says sternly, but the hint of a smile can still be heard in her soft tone.

As she relaxes against him, he sneaks in a small and weary smile onto his face. Despite his reluctance to leave her arms, he does admit that she is very much right. He is not willing to argue over something so silly.

"I guess you win. Again." All his senses are now completely relaxed as he holds her against his body, breathing in the scent of her perfume lingering on her skin. Lemon grass and geranium. He nuzzles his nose against her collarbone. "-You better shower with me after all of this is said and done then."

He hears her laugh at his muttered demand, making his smile widen against her.

"Uh-huh, alright, you got yourself a deal, Redfield. Shower together it is," she agrees, her words laced with light playfulness that was like a balm to his battered body. As she lowers herself down, she swiftly pecks his forehead. "Now rest, you big, stubborn idiot."

Another shiver of delight runs down his spine at the simple affection she was spoiling him with. Despite the tiredness and exhaustion he's feeling, the thought of having her warm body pressed against his own in the shower later makes him almost excited about the idea. That's certainly one thing to look forward to, at least.

"I’m your stubborn idiot." With a tired sigh of relief, he presses his face into the soft skin of her neck, practically burying it there, the stubble on his jawline scratching at her slightly, to which she giggles lightly. She can make him completely pliant and docile in her arms, even though he is known for being intense and gruff on the appearance. He whispers against her skin, his voice weary and gravelly: "I’m all yours."

He may have a tendency to appear tough and guarded, but in quiet moments like these, when his body is pliant and docile in her embrace, it became openly clear just how tired and weary he really was under his front of responsibility and leadership.

"You're mine alright," she replies, her fingers slowly massaging the back of his neck, slowly tracing small, soothing circles on his skin. "That means I get to protect you, too. Now rest. You're safe here."

That's all the words he needed to hear.

[kirihotto]

Whirpool {Chan X Reader 18+}

→ Rating: 18+ Minors are strictly prohibited from engaging and reading this content. It contains explicit content.

→ Genre: Co-Manager X boss

→ Summary: Stray kids your second boss. Host a party for there new released album. Your uncle who works as Chan's manager. Gets invited and takes you as his plus one. upon Stray kids members recommendations. Though the party is for Stray kids as a whole. You end up spending a little more time with there leader. 

→ Word Count: 2 991

Disclaimer: All members are face and name claims for the story. This is entirely a work of fiction and by no means is meant to be a projection, judgment or representation of real-life people. All works are purely for entertainment purposes.

Published: 01/24/23

Inspiration: Swim- Chase Atlantic

A/N: I heard this song and was like. Aussie accent? Boom Chan fic. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Stray kids. A new rise in K pop. With their recent album Miroh. {Ik Woojin is in this era but like screw him.} The company decided to host a release party. Renting out a huge house for the night. For all of the idols in the group as well as chosen staff. One of those chosen staff was my uncle, Duri. Who was also responsible for getting me a job working under him, and a private manager for the stray kids member known as ‘Bangchan’. My uncle was chosen to attend this party and invited me as his plus one. Per stray kids request oddly enough. At first I had been hesitant but my uncle begged me to go. So surely enough we were staying at this huge house for the night.

“Welcome! Duri, F/N.” BangChan bowed slightly, meeting us on the steps. Us doing the same greeting him. He was wearing a simple yet satisfying outfit of his own choice. Matching his half pushed back bleach blonde hair. A white T, orange zip up sweater, Brown jeans, lots of bracelets,necklaces and rings. “Thank you for coming. Follow me ill take you to your room.”

Following Chan inside the huge place past the fancy kitchen, living room both of which were Filled with people and snacks. Up the stairs to a nice hallway with a balcony over the rest of the main floor. looking above everyone else, members I.N, Hyunjin and Seungmin were easily pointed out. Pulling my gaze away from the main floor I followed Chan's voice to a room.

“So sorry about being late.” My uncle apologized to his employer. Bowing awkwardly, once I entered the rather large room I did the same.

“Ah! No no. You're both here now, that's what matters!” Chan chuckled, waving his hands about. “The food is ready down by the pool and in the kitchen. Feel free to eat whatever you'd like. You can leave your things in here for the night. If you have any questions, ask me or one of the other members.”

“Alright, thanks! You guys deserve this. Keep that in mind alright?” My uncle teased Chan. Nudging him as they both began to leave the room. But it was true. They worked so hard. I'd often find Chan working late hours in the studio. Sometimes even finding him asleep at his desk. Even though I see him nearly every day I still get butterflies from his voice alone. He was so kind and friendly. Chan was stopped in the doorway. Turning to face him, his kind eyes greeted me.

“So glad you decided to come as well F/N.” Chan smiled.

“O-oh yeah. My uncle asked me to go. I'm not usually a huge partier.” I chuckled awkwardly. Fumbling out my words without thought. Playing with my hands.

“Alright alright. Have fun then! See you around.” he turned his back to me with a wave and walked out of the room. He was way too cute. Sure he was a little older than me but he was so damn adorable.

Wandering my way back to my uncle. Who already had a drink in his hand and was placed near the pool. The in-ground pool went from shallow to deep. LED white lights lit up the water from the quickly darkening sky. Members Han and Changbin were spotted in the decently crowded pool. Both shirtless, their short brown hair stuck to wet foreheads. While Lee-know and Felix were sitting on one of the many pool chairs surrounding it. Their fancy yet casual clothes, matching with sandy and bleach blonde neat hair. Swarms of other staff soon came flooding out the kitchen doors. Chan and Seungmin took a seat with the other members by the pool. While Hyunjin jumped into the pool with the other two. His manager ran after him yelling. Though Hyunjin didn't care. Whilst I was zoning out admiring- I mean watching Chan and the other members. My uncle had wandered off. Leaving me silent and alone. My first choice would have been to go with Chan. but the members were swarmed with other people. I didn't want to get involved in awkward conversation. The growl in my stomach made it clear what the right easiest move was.

Going back inside the huge kitchen was nearly empty. Other than one red headed person sitting at the decently sized quarts island filled with snacks. Taking a random bowl of chips I sat with them.

“Hey, you work with Chan hyung right?” The person next to me questioned. His sly voice graced my ears and I knew who it was.

“Jeongin?”

“Hello! That's me, yes. Though, you didn't answer my question.” He retorted. Taking a hefty spoon full of pink ice cream in his mouth.

“Y-yeah I work for him.. technically. I’m surprised you remember me.” I replied, no longer shy to stuff my face as well. A wholesome sweet grin came across I.N’s face. Spoon still in his mouth.

“So. I’m guessing you started work here because of your uncle? How you like it?” I.N inquired leaning closer to me. His hand resting on his cheek, the other held his spoon. Splashing from outside united with cheering chatter making a background track.

“It's fun. Considering I enjoy your guy’s music and you're all having fun. Expressing yourself freely to the world. It's nice. Free. Fresh.” replying after hastily swallowing a mouth full of dry chips.

“Wow. I didn't know you thought of us like that. T-thank you. Really.” He replied sincerely. Swiping a spoon around in his melted ice cream. The doors to the place swung open and staff members practically dragged I.N away. Leaving his sad melted ice cream alone. One holding his arm looking to be his own manager. I.N smiled back at me from his awkward place in the door frame. “Sorry! Though we'll chat again soon I'm sure!”

Alone yet again. Though now I could really eat. Munching away on my own with the casual guest looking for snack bowls. The night lingered on. As I watched the chaos from behind the safe glass doors.

Once I was satisfied with eating I started cleaning up the dishes. Felix was quick to join me at the sink. Han, Chan and other staff were soon joining us. The guests not staying the night cleared out as we did up the dishes. Felix and Han left for the showers after helping with most of the dishes. Until it was only Chan and I silently doing the last few. Then came another hill to get over.

My drunk uncle. He stumbled in the door with the help of two other staff members. Yelling nonsense. The other two staff were a little tipsy themselves. Stumbling around. Chan rushed over before I even had the thought. Grabbing my uncle's arm with one of his. The other staff left us to ourselves, though I'm sure it was because they were tipsy. So it was me, my uncle and Chan barely able to hold him up. Taking my uncle’s other arm, evening the hold on him.

“Well.. Guess we are stuck getting him upstairs.” Chan sighed, a slight awkward giggle.

“So sorry…he's too heavy to lift alone.” apologizing as we walked toward the staircase. After a sore mangled walk upstairs I could rest. Chan stood at the door after helping lay my uncle down.

“Really. Thank you. If you umm. Ever want to just chat feel free to call or text me.” Chan suggested in the door frame. Between a lit hallway and dark room I was in. As I had yet to answer he began to play with the hair on the back of his neck. “F/N?”

“Y-yes! I will thank you too. S-sleep well.” I nodded and my cheeks flushed. He nodded and walked off to his room. After he left I flopped on the bed, without a second thought of preparing for sleep.

Roughly three hours into the long night. I was awakened by the beast in the room. My uncle's dreadful snore. Tossing and turning in the soft gray sheets before giving up to leave. Rather than sitting in the boring kitchen I made my way to get some fresh air outside. Without all the people it was so nice. A beautiful view. Other than the insane amount of garbage littering the yard. I had nothing better to do, so I picked up the remaining garbage. Humming the newest songs from Stray kids as I fished garbage out of the pool. It didn't sound fun but it was. The nice cool summer air was relaxing. The sound of crickets and a slight breeze.

“F/N?”

“AH!-” I yelped, losing my balance with a jump from shock. Trying to grab onto anything to get me out. I grabbed onto the person’s limb and pulled them in with me. I was fully clothed and in the pool. With someone else. They grabbed my waist hauling me above water. Their warm body heat warming me. Clearing my view from water to see who saved me but also made me fall in.

“Chan?” I questioned. My face warmed quickly. His orange T shirt clung to his built form. Stray blonde hair stuck to his forehead. Then his hand.. Placed firmly on my nearly see through shirt.

“Yeah it's me. Are you alright?”

“Y-yes...”

“Why are you out here?” Chan questioned loosening his grip on me. His gaze, only full of concern, focused on me. “Oh- sorry for knocking you in and scaring you.”

“Well. I couldn't sleep. My uncle is uh..a loud sleeper. No no it's not your fault for scaring me. I should have been paying more attention.” I admitted. His gaze lightened at my remark. Relaxing his hand off my hip. We swam toward the shallow end. After a moment of calming comfortable silence. “Why are you out here?”

“Same as you. Though no noisy sleeping buddy. Just couldn't sleep. Nothing new.” He sighed. Resting his back on the side of the pool. Staring up into the stars. Though it was a beautiful night to look at. That view I could look up in the sky and see anytime. This view in front of me. Not so much. But no. I wasn't really surprised to see Chan awake. He had always been bad at sleeping regular hours. Chan looked over to face me again. “I was planning to relax out here. Saw you. Figured it'd be nice to chat. But being in this pool. Seems more fun!”

“Hey!” I yelped as Chan splashed water to my side of the pool. The war began. Water fired left to right as we showered eachother with pool water. The most smiles i've had all night. The night sky only made it more relaxing. Our wet hair swished back out of the way so we could aim. Every moment was amazing, filled with laughter on both ends. Until Chan paused.

“What time is it? It's getting cold, yeah?” He looked around his hands resting on opposing biceps. The cool breeze finally got to me. It must have been at least two am by now. My wet clothes clung to my equally wet form.

“Y-yeah. To be honest I don't wanna leave. My uncle is snoring like nuts.” I sighed. Covering my arms as well. The shivering started to be visible. In search of anything to keep us warm.

“Here. this will keep us warmer." Chan glided over to me. I admit I had gotten nervous. His shirt clinging to his built form. All the more clear once he was closer. Realizing he would notice the same about me, I attempted to cover my chest. My temperature does not seem so cold anymore. He stood right in front of me with his arms open. “Is.. it ok if i hug you? Y’know to keep us warm.”

“yeah. Go ahead. No need to ask.” as soon as a single syllable was voiced, his arms were around me. He was so warm. Though we didn't know each other too well this felt so comfortable. Feeling safe in his arms. “Thanks, this is nice. I mean uhh it's nice and warm.”

“Good to hear. Didn't want you getting cold. You're so warm.” Saying that last part in nearly a whisper, he rested his head on my shoulder. Nearly jumping at his sudden movement. feeling his muscles against my chest and abdomen, as I was pressed close to him. My hands moved to his chest unintentionally. His warm breath crawled down my neck. feeling the blush flooding my face. “Listen, there's something I'd like to tell you. Will you hear me out?”

“Y-Yes of course. What's up?” attempting to lighten the mood, I replied in a friendly way. But his intense gaze returned to face me. The heated tension only got worse.

“I.. like you. A lot. Since you started working here I couldn't help but be drawn to you. The way you talk, how you care for others, all of it. I’d love to learn more about you.” Chan admitted. His cheeks dusted pink as his gaze drifted all over as he tried to find words. While I was also at a loss for words. Though. Chan was really my favorite of the members. I had always looked at him with an admiring gaze more so than the others. His sweet smile is like the sun after a rainy day. I made my move. Grabbing his shoulders I kissed him in the whirlpool of emotions I was feeling. His hands loosened on my waist. It was only a moment before he pulled me away by my hips. Though our bodies are all the more closer.

(spice)

“Ah- Wait F/N dont move.” Chan said nervously, begging. Desperately holding my hips still. His chest rising and falling slightly. I moved only briefly realizing why he wasn't facing me. A bulge pressed against my thigh. Which I could only imagine- “Sorry. This is my fault.”

“It's alright. I- don't mind..uhmm.. Exploring…” I answered truthfully. Chan moved away a little. His hands rested on my shoulders as he looked me in the eye.

“Are you sure?. Really. Don't feel pressured.” He expressed again. The question hovering in the air was only making us both more excited. I nodded looking away from him. He came close again and kissed me. The sudden contact against me made me moan slightly. Chan took the advantage and deepened the kiss. Catching our breath for a moment he pulled his wet shirt over his head. His set of polished abs staring mockingly at me. My silent stare directed to his figure. “To much?”

“No. not at all…”

“Haha. you wanna touch them?” Chan asked, gesturing to the location of my stare with his kind eyes. I slowly crept my hands toward him. Butterflies swarm in my stomach. He caught my hand gently and placed it upon his chest. only staring at my hand as I explored the feeling. His hand hovering over mine, pulled it to a stop. My gaze back on him. “Do I get a chance to.. Explore?”

“Oh. right..” I replied. Chan’s gaze at my soaked shirt, I could feel the nerves in his voice. It seemed more like a question than any type of demand. Taking my shirt off as well leaving it a float in the water. With only a bra on in the open air though Being cold wasn't much of a concern. After a pause of any movement and stares being exchanged we were tangled by eachother again. His hands slid up my bare waist, mine resting at his chest again. Warm breaths filled the space between us as he slowly backed me into the side of the pool.

“Are you ready?” He asked with a little grin. Whether it was a nervous grin or excitement I have to find out. My face lit aflame at his question, imagining the dirtiest possible outcome. Before I could say anything he lifted me up with ease. Setting me on the side of the pool. His grip on my waist leaving after he made sure I was comfortable.

“W-what are you doing? It's more cold out here-”

“Mm? Really?” He teased me. Pulling himself above the water. Placing either of his hands by my thighs. His hips between my legs. My hands that had been attempting to cover my nearly BARE chest, now covering my heated face. Though pulled away moments after to be greeted with a soft smile and sweet words. “Are you ok with this?”

He held both of my hands as he scanned my face for an answer. But those sweet words were pushed out of the way by the clear bulge showing through his tight brown jeans. By any means it wasn't small. Seriously. What is this man doing to me?! I don't open my legs for anyone. But my body didn't exactly plan on going anywhere. My mind once again drifting.

“I-its alright.” finally answering him. I could tell he was losing his patience. My response came out as more of a plea than a response. With my answer he kissed a trail from my collar bone up my neck. Meeting my gaze again he pushed the stray strands of wet hair off my face. Bending down to kiss my thighs. Before-

“Ah~!” my hand flew from his shoulders to my mouth. The night time air didn't really feel to cold anymore. He looked up at me lustfully, his lips still placed on my thigh. He slowly moved more in between my legs. Closer to my heat. Leaving a soft kiss.

“Don't stop. Let me hear more of your music.” Chan teased between my thighs, sucking a purple mark on my inner thigh. “You don't wanna go back inside with your uncle. Yeah? Let's go to my room.”

A/N: my room? naw naw naw it's Channies room! lol ik not funny. sorry this is SO long. most wont be like this. thanke for reading! :3

[xzho-writes]

and so, i confide in parchment and ink

pairings: itto, thoma, xiao x gn!reader

genre: angst/comfort

summary: in which you are separated from the genshin men, and their only way of communicating with you is through words scribbled on a blank piece of paper.

wc: 600, 600, 700

warnings:

a/n: i’m dividing these into three parts with three characters in each. thank you all for these past few months, and i hope to be back some time in the future!

directory

- ✦ masterlist - ✦ series masterlist - ✦ (pt.1), (pt.3)

itto

arataki itto sighs for what feels like the nth time that afternoon. with his head lazily supported by his left hand he kicks another stray pebble lying by his foot, hoping to ease the boredom plaguing his being.

it doesn’t work, really. the poor rock skids down the path for nothing, and itto finds himself as grumpy as he used to be.

shinobu watches her leader, her friend, from where she sits on the ground tending to a small campfire in the hopes of finally making the gang some lunch. an idea hits the young girl then as she nods to herself, proud of her quick thinking.

she never did like the glum look on itto’s usually chipper expression.

“why don’t you write them a letter or something? you know, so you can actually find out how they’re doing instead of grouching around all day?”

shinobu is greeted with silence but not for long. itto’s head perks up with frightening speed at her suggestion, whirring around to face her with stars in his crimson eyes. she’s grateful for the mask currently on her face- she didn’t want itto to see the disappointment marring her lips.

“oh, shinobu! you’re a genius!”

“don’t tell me you haven’t thought of that before,” she tuts.

the only response she gets is the shy scratch itto gives to his neck, accompanied by his bashful chuckle.

“ah, well... you see...”

shaking her head in disbelief shinobu stands and turns to find her rucksack sitting by the nearby tree. to her relief, inside was a small notebook and a half-used pencil. it never hurt to carry such equipment around and it seemed this situation was a great example. she’d prefer for the oni to use some sort of ink so that his letter would look at least somewhat presentable but this would have to do, she supposed.

after taking the items out and turning back to face her friend, she found that itto was already looking at her expectantly with poorly suppressed excitement. 

“here,” she said as she coaxed the paper and pencil into itto’s comically large hands. 

the grin on his face grew even larger. “thanks, shinobu! you’re always so prepared- as expected of the arataki gang’s second in command, of course!”

“just,” shinobu could only sigh, “just try to keep your writing neat, alright?”

“hey! what’s that supposed to mean?!”

—

“hey, lovebug!

bet you weren’t expecting a letter from your one and oni, were ya? i’d take all the credit for this idea but i gotta hand over some of it to shinobu, haha! thought i was hiding my impatience pretty well but i guess not- she saw right through me and guessed what the problem was. said stuff about me being crabby, or something.

but anyways! i miss you :(

it’s so boring here without you to liven up the place. the gang’s fun and all, sure, but it’s just not the same without you. i’m still sad you didn’t allow me to come with, you know. hurts my big ol’ heart just thinking about your rejection!

i’ve cried and am still crying and it’s all your fault, lovebug. bring me something nice back to make up for it?

...joking! i forgave ya as soon as you hurt my feelings, hehe.

oh, by the way, i have a surprise for you when you come back! actually, screw the surprise- i found a really huge and strong-looking onikabuto when i was scouting for my next champion! i’d keep him for myself but it’s only right for you to have ‘em. you’ve never had an onikabuto of your own, right? 

not only do you have the gang and i waiting but this lil guy’s just itching to finally meet you. i can just tell!

my arms are empty so hurry up and fill the space ;)

- itto.”

thoma

“—oma! thoma!”

“y-yes?”

the shoulder beneath ayaka’s palm jumps at her sudden touch. the young kamisato flits a worried glance to her brother sitting beside her and ayato could only crease his brows at thoma’s skittish reaction. a sigh slipped through thoma’s lips after realising what, or who, had surprised him.

ayaka withdrew her hand and instead layed it over his forearm in concern. the eldest kamisato shifted beside her to catch a better look at his friend who was seemingly in some form of distress.

“are you alright, thoma? you’ve been acting rather... odd, recently.”

“r-really? i guess the hot pot must be getting to me.”

ayato’s arms crossed in a way that said i don’t buy it, and ayaka’s brow raised at the evident lie.

the head housekeeper could only sag his shoulders in defeat, chuckling with slight embarrassment. it’s not like thoma’s surprised the two could make out his white lie. the trio had been friends for as long as he could remember, after all. 

besides, there was nothing wrong with confiding in your closest confidants, right? with some newfound courage thoma managed to briefly explain his predicament.

neither ayato and ayaka looked too shocked with his explanation. it seemed like they were expecting such a confession, even.

“honestly, i just didn’t think i’d miss them this much... it’s not even like they left inazuma or anything! they always visit their parents at this time of the year but it’s never been an issue before.”

ayato leaned forward on the table decisively, a solution immediately brewing in his calculative mind. “then what say you to the idea of writing a small letter?” 

“that’s a great idea!” voiced ayaka enthusiastically.

the young blond blinked, once, twice, before letting out a sound akin to that of a sad mewl. “but i don’t want to bother them! i might just end up being annoying.”

“don’t be silly, thoma. i’m sure they’ll appreciate it! i’d love to receive something if i were in their position. and besides,” she squeezed his arm encouragingly, “i think it shows how much you value their presence.”

with a single affirmative nod the kamisato clan’s leader stood and smoothed out his attire. “then that’s that. come, my office has an abundance of spare papers. although... i might need to send someone to fetch some envelopes,” ayato muttered.

“wait—!”

ayaka was already up and tugging him along before thoma could begin to refute their grandiose idea.

—

“hello sweetie,

sorry for reaching out to you all of a sudden- i was encouraged to do so by ayaka and ayato, so i hope you don’t mind receiving this. honestly speaking, though, i should thank them for their encouragement.

i’ve had the same idea for a while but i didn’t want to bother you or anything. after all, i’m normally used to these regular visits of yours and don’t feel the need to reach out but i guess i’m just missing you loads this time, huh?

i don’t know what else to write other than ‘i miss you and i can’t wait to have you back here with me’, so i think i’ll just tell you about how i’ve been doing! nothing bad’s happened, really: just helping around wherever i can. however my days are noticeably less... exciting? more dull? i’m not sure how to explain it completely but i can only guess it’s cause you’re not around.

who knew that a single person would make such a difference in my life?

i miss you, hun. come back safely, alright?

oh, you don’t have to reply back or anything! i’d hate to trouble you and i know you’re spending time with your family so don’t feel obligated to write me back, don’t worry.

with all my love,

- thoma.”

xiao

there’s a soft breeze that glides through the adeptus’ dark tresses, tousling the velvety strands in a gentle manner. xiao huffs a small sigh at the soothing feeling. a single, golden ginkgo leaf twirls aimlessly beside his head, and the man finds himself reaching out for the delicate thing.

it’s tiny in his palm. pretty and soft, and rather beautiful. xiao had been alive for time immemorial but had always found the leaf to be gorgeous. they flutter by like children born of wind and nature- golden rain when they fall in numbers, giving liyue its signature glow.

but most importanly, they signify home. 

he crushes it. it reminds him of you. 

you, who are currently not in his presence.

it’s been a few days since he’s last had contact with you and, although he was more than used to the feeling of being alone, being away from you had definitely done a number to his mood. your adventures had stolen you to the land of eternity- a place well out of his reach. 

oh, how he hates what you’ve done to his mind. to not only his mind but to his body and soul, too. where xiao had been content with his lonesome in the past the arrival of your presence in his life had flipped his world upside down.

it didn’t feel right to not have you yapping away at him for hours on end. something he noticed rather quickly was how empty, how cold, his body had felt ever since your departure. he never could’ve imagined just how much he truly appreciated your body heat, how much he appreciated the fact that you’d share it with someone as monstrous as he.

xiao didn’t feel right, simply put. he had to reach out for you, had to have you here with him somehow- he had to.

with nothing but a resolute mind, xiao conjures up the image of a certain fatherly adeptus and finds himself by the man’s side a few seconds after.

the former archon smiles, taken by surprise at the younger male knelt before him.

“xiao?”

“rex lap— zhongli, i’m… in need of assistance.”

the eldest of the two places a welcoming hand on xiao’s shoulder, hoping to ease his rigid posture.

“of course,” zhongli begins. his hand glides down towards xiao’s upper arm in order to lift him from his lowly position, voice gentle and low timbre ever present. “lift yourself, there is no need. what may i help you with?”

alatus rises, grateful, and begins to explain his situation.

—

“(name),

forgive how stiff this letter might sound, i’ve never been good with words. i know you already knew this but i still feel the need to apologise. i’m sorry.

i just wanted to check in on you. it’s been a while since i’ve last seen you, since i’ve last heard from you. there’s an odd feeling in my chest- something that only ever appears in your absence. i’m not exactly sure what it is but i have an idea.

anxiety, i suppose, as you call it. worry. all those human emotions you’ve told me about. 

but it’s normal, right? to be concerned for your partner like this, i mean. you always tell me you feel the same whenever i’m away. 

it’s weird how our positions have now switched, but let me be straightforward: how are you? are you well? 

i’ve told you to simply call out my name whenever you’re in need but i’m also aware of your capabilities and your love for independence. i won’t be one to strip you of such values. 

(more regrettably, it’s much harder for me to locate you now that you’re outside the lands of liyue- that which i am eternally bound to.)

so, write back to me as soon as you receive this message. send it to wangshu inn, and verr goldet will be sure to hand it over to me.

don’t keep me waiting for too long,

- xiao.”

[maaarshieee]

(Congrats on your 50 followers! Love your work! Take care of yourself and take your time on the request. No pressure!)

Could you please write a Kagaya scenario where Reader comes from a powerful family And Kagaya is the leader of the corps a powerful family. Both meet And feel in love, becoming secret lovers. One day they are informed of arranged marriages. Though they were heartbroken they sadly break it off. They meet their arrangement partner only to be surprise that it’s each other! Abd happily get married, happy ending!

➢ Kᴀɢᴀʏᴀ Uʙᴜʏᴀsʜɪᴋɪ x F!Rᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

➢ 2,545 Wᴏʀᴅs

➢ Fʟᴜғғ

➢ Mᴀsᴛᴇʀʟɪsᴛ

Somethings aren’t meant to go the way you wanted it to be, but hey, the universe is filled with surprised, isn’t it? Surprises Kagaya can’t even pick up with his foresight. 

➵ Mᴇᴀɴᴛ Tᴏ Bᴇ Yᴏᴜʀs

When Kagaya met you, you were both young and new to the world around you.

You came from a powerful family that has been affiliated with the Ubuyashiki family for centuries. Rich and connected to the government, your family helps demon slayers off the hook easily and covers up demon related activity.

Your family also helped to fund demon slayers and gave secret access to places only government officials can enter. The L/n family has helped young heads of the Ubuyashiki family lead the corps, keeping the steady flow of handling the organization. It’s safe to say that the L/n family is very important to the Demon Slayer Corps, so everyone treated every member of the L/n family with the utmost respect.

The L/n family visited the Ubuyashiki’s that day. The adults were inside a room, talking amongst themselves and discussing important matters. Kagaya’s mother was with his father this time, so he and his siblings weren’t needed inside the room with them this time. Whatever they talked about will be told to them, should it be important. They gave them the free will to do whatever they wanted.

So, Kagaya made his way to the gardens of his home. One of his favourite places to go to when he has time. Usually, even in his home, he’s being taught multiple things, especially manners and how to lead a whole corporation at a young age.

It felt like he couldn't do much like a normal kid. Always had to act in a certain manner, always had to think of the future of the Corps and so forth. Sure, he received time to do whatever he wanted, but what could he do with his limited knowledge of the world outside the headquarters.

There are times when he and his siblings were allowed to be outside, but mostly for Demon Slayer Corps related activity, like being one of the spokespersons for Final Selection. Sometimes, his duties as an Ubuyashiki get to him, but can you blame him?

He’s just a kid, plus, unknowingly to his parents, he’s terrified of demons, as all other children should. He just has to learn to overcome that fear, as his parents did. After all, he’s in a secluded area, where no demon could reach.

But all he could do was shake his head and sigh, strengthening himself as he patted his kimono down. No, he must do this. It’s for the greater good of humanity, isn’t it? He has to remember why and who he’s doing this for.

Plus, once Muzan is defeated, the Ubuyashiki family won’t suffer for having such a short life span anymore, and bearing the huge responsibilities of a whole corporation once the current head of the family dies inevitably. Kagaya stopped in his tracks, frowning when a thought crossed his mind.

If he lives long enough to witness the death of Muzan Kibutsuji. His heart clenched as his throat tightened, gulping as he began walking again, towards his room to grab a book.

Reading under the cherry blossom trees inside their garden has been his favourite past him recent. The calming, light breeze that would always brush against his skin and make his hair sway, the petals falling down the trees and landing on top of his head unbeknownst to him, the quiet but soothing sounds of rushing water from the small waterfall pond they have, and the smell of grass and multiple flowers would always be the cherry on top.

His mother and sisters meticulously organized and nurtured the garden, keeping every shrub, tree, bush, and flower healthy under their care. The cherry blossom planted at the heart of the garden has lived decades and soon needed to be replaced with a new one, for its time is coming to an end, yet the beauty it lays was still undefeated.

If you were to climb on one of its branches, it would not break. It remained sturdy as if it was a young tree. The garden was a safe haven for the Ubuyashiki's, its serene atmosphere served its duty of calming each member of the family when needed. Kagaya often described the garden as 'surreal'.

He could be spending time with his siblings as of now, but he knew they desired to do as well, be it a chore or just being alone. Kagaya prefered the latter. Either way, they’ve been together a lot, since they have to nurse their father, along with their mother. Does it get repetitive? Very much so, but time moves fast, before he knows it, he’d be on his deathbed.

Must you be so negative? He internally scolded himself, the smile he always wears twitched irritably.

With another sigh, he grabbed a random book from his bookshelf, then walked outside, finally making his way silently towards the garden. His face would soften, as well as his smile whenever he passed his siblings, giving them a wave and a greeting, then went back to their separate ways.

Finally, he made it to the garden, a much more sincere smile emerging on his lips as he stepped off the engawa, walking towards his reading spot.

Before he could even get there, he heard a giggle out of nowhere. Alarmed, he whipped his head in the direction where it came from. Someone else is here? He thought it was one of his siblings, but he knew they were all inside. It sounded small and rather feminine. He found it rather cute if it didn't belong to an intruder, so furrowed his brows, gripped his book, using it as an alternative weapon and walked towards the source of the sound.

What he found was a gorgeous, stunning girl that he’s never seen before. You were grinning ear to ear, enamoured of how you twirled in such a carefree attitude as you took in the beauty of the garden you were in. Butterflies fluttered towards your form, landing on your hair as you continued to hum to yourself, caressing the petals of multiple flowers.

He was floored, his breath hitched as his eyes trailed your pleasant features that seemed to glow under the sunlight, following the way your hair swayed. Ethereal, as one could describe you. Heat, unexpectedly, rushed up to his cheeks as his flusteredness clouded his rationality... Which led him to smack your head upright with the book he has on hand and disrupt your peace.

You let out a loud shout, taken by surprise and rubbing the spot where Kagaya hit you. When he realized what he had done, he uncharacteristically let out a small shriek, dropping his book as he bowed down to you, profusely apologizing, surprised as well by your unannounced presence.

That was how Kagaya met you.

After that ungraceful meeting and learning, you were the eldest daughter of the L/n household (Kagaya almost had a heart attack at this discovery, but, thankfully, you never mentioned it to your parents), the two of you were quick to be friends. You often visited him since you’re much freer from your responsibilities, and he appreciates it a lot.

He doesn't have many friends outside his family, so you were a refreshing experience for him.

While you’d usually wait for him to be free from his studies, which he’d feel bad for, the two of you would make a trip to your new hangout spot, his garden! Sometimes, his siblings would join in, as well as yours, to play together. Tossing a ball at each other, playing hide and seek or tag, and then ate at the engawa with the food his mother had prepared for everyone.

You'd mostly teach him and his siblings a wider variety of games. Ever since your visits, their responsibilities became a little less. The head of the Ubuyashiki family saw the positive impact you bring on his children, so he opted to let them have more fun.

Your visits inevitably became sleepovers. It was clear that the two of you longed to be with one another for as long as the two of you can stay, clinging and reassuring. His days were always better when he was with you after all, and you felt the same way. He never once regretted meeting you that one fateful day in their garden.

You made his life much more bearable to live, you took care of him when his illness was slowly getting worse even if he told you not to, and you even stayed in his classes, learning and listening with him. Kagaya was whipped for you.

His smile softens but stretches ear to ear whenever your name is mentioned by one of his family members. Kagaya stares faraway, in deep thought, his face holding a wistful expression whenever you’re away for too long. He tends to make your favourite meals, snacks and tea for himself. Sure, they’re your favourites, but as long as he’s indulging in the things that make you happy, he doesn’t mind at all.

And it was obvious you reciprocated these feelings. Why else would you cradle his face oh so gently, your thumbs caressing his rosy cheeks, whilst the two of you would sit at the engawa? Why else would you remind him time and time again to take his medicine to alleviate his growing pains? Why else would you offer to brush his hair every time the two of you would wake up from your sleepovers?

Why else would you look at him in such ways, eyes soft and sparkling with delight, when you spend time together? Why else would you stay by his side, promising that you'd be there for him? Even with the knowledge of his short lifespan?

The two of you were in a relationship as soon as the two of you got a greater grasp of the concept called romantic love. Although, even if it was in secrecy, everyone knew. The short but lingering touches, the prominent red tint dusting both your cheeks, the way the two of you glowed with pure joy and contentment whenever you’re together, the secret linking of your pinkies and the list goes on and on.

Both the Ubuyashiki and L/n family were happy for the young couple, relieved that the connection between both families was as strong as ever, to the point your mother, unknowingly to you, began to train you how to be a proper wife. It confused you at first but never complained.

You'd always think it's extra knowledge to care for Kagaya.

However, the two of you came of age to finally get married and continue the bloodline of your families. It was heartbreaking, to say the least, the two of you had to end things here. Arranged marriage has always been a tradition in both families, the two of you were informed ever since you were young yet you stubbornly pushed that fact away and continued to love each other.

You thought you could have a few more years together, make it clear to your parents that your love for one another was too great to be just married to someone else, so it was a heart-wrenching discovery to discover they had to be married so soon. Both were too pained to hear out their parents, and be informed about who they’ll end up marrying.

Even if the two of you were in absolute shambles- faint sobs from your bedrooms, sullen looks gracing both your features and the lack of motivation to do anything, too focused on trying to move on- your siblings found it amusing. While both families consoled their heartbroken children, a knowing gleam in their eyes would go unnoticed by the two of you.

Then the day when the future bride and groom would finally meet and get to know each other. You were devastated, and so was Kagaya. It was still obvious both hearts belonged to one another.

So, imagine Kagaya’s surprise when he saw you walk in inside the room, in the middle of your parents, looking vibrant as ever. Imagine your surprise when you saw him, well dressed, sitting beside his parents. Imagine both of your surprises when your parents suddenly let out small chuckles at both of your reactions, clearly amused.

Needless to say, you rushed up towards Kagaya and tackled him into a hug, sobbing in his arms. Kagaya wrapped his arms tightly around you, still trying to take a full grasp on what was happening, only to fall into embarrassment when the realization struck that your secret relationship hasn’t been so secretive at all.

Either way, both of you were elated. Happy, now that you’ve got to spend the rest of your lives together. Glad, that the two of you are meant to be each other, and that your family fully supports it. Relieved, that your love would continue to prosper, and you’d have a bright future together. Like Kagaya would ever let you go.

Even if he was sick, even if his responsibilities were big, you wanted to be there on his side, you wanted to carry the weight of his duties alongside him, just so he could breathe a little. You were patient as ever, loving him to the fullest and showing it in every way possible.

You gave him everything, and so did he. He was there when you needed help with your studies, having simple troubles; cooking, cleaning, helping his’ or your siblings, and soothed you with his calming presence and tranquil voice whenever you needed it. He wanted you to feel how much you meant to him the best he could, that you made him feel alive, happy, and at home.

It’s always a fun little story to tell your children. How the two of you met, how you were ‘secretly’ in a relationship, your breakup, and finally your marriage. Your children would always giggle to themselves at how silly their parents were. You’d always sigh and feel a tad embarrassed whenever they ask you to retell the tale again.

They were so filled with curiosity, and it often lulls them to sleep, how could you say no? Kagaya always told you it would give them a concept of how and what love truly is. This is a fact, you'd often describe how falling in love feels like, what the two of you did and so much more. Although, the two of you had to discourage your children from hitting random kids with books on their heads.

You were laughing so hard when you found out Kiriya hit a girl he liked on the head. While Kagaya apologized for his behaviour, you couldn’t help but tease him about it. “Like father, like son!” You’d say, while he was smiling, his eyes told you he was unamused, Kiriya rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly behind him.

Being married to you was everything Kagaya ever hoped for. To stay by your side until his clock stops ticking, to see you happy taking care of your children, and to love you for as long as he could.

The universe was full of surprises, he soon realized. After all, even with his foresight, he was never able to predict a future with you. He couldn't complain though, now he's living it.

✦ At the time you sent this i was at 50+ now im almost at 100?!?! its so overwhelming,, i wonder if i deserve it bc my writings are SO mediocre,, This request is really interesting btw :0 I LIKE IT HADSA I hope you enjoy this anon!! ALSO THAKN YOU :D <3 much love!! i kinda changed it to make it make sense more but i hope you dont mind~ also thanks for reminding me that, i kinda panic when i see i have a lot of drafts,, gotta remember people have patience.. note: you and kagaya are at the same age, and are old enough! tried for a lil realistic approach on kagaya! you know, how a kid would feel with like the weight of a whole organization in his shoulders. made up the garden fr but idc!! shush >:( Have a good day/night~

note: WHEN I POSTED THIS I READ YOUR. REQUEST AND. I WAS WRONG. IM SO SORRY BUT I HOPE THIS IS OKADUHSAJNKLDSA

[writingwithcolor]

Being an Agender, 1st-Gen Indian-American

I’m a first-generation immigrant, with both my parents being Indian immigrants. My mom immigrated to Canada before she came to America (when she was in her late twenties), and is a Canadian citizen. She was born and raised in Ahmedabad, a city in Gujarat. My dad moved to India when he was in his early twenties. He moved from Ahmedabad to Mumbai in his fifth standard, and moved from a Gujarati-medium school to an English-medium one. 

My dad is more fluent in English than my mom, though they both are fluent and speak mostly without an accent. I speak Gujarati more-or-less fluently, since that’s what we spoke at home, but I can barely even write my name. I’m Hindu, as is my family, and a strict vegetarian. I’m agender, but I use she/her and they/them pronouns. 

Beauty Standards

One of the biggest issues in the Indian-American community is the issue of body hair. I’m AFAB, so I was expected to have smooth, hairless legs and arms. The reality was rather different. Since the age of ten, I had more body hair than the boys in my class. I was mocked and called by the name of a TV animal character, whose name was a mispronunciation of my own. No one ever did anything about it. I was eight. My mother, though she meant well, pushed me into waxing and threading and other forms of hair removal since the day I turned eleven. Even now, as a fully-grown adult with my own apartment and my own life, I can’t bring myself to wear shorts or capris without having spent hours making sure my legs are smooth. Body hair is a huge issue that needs to be addressed more, and not just as a few wisps of blonde hair in the armpit region.

Food

It’s complicated. Growing up, we had thaalis (with roti, rice, sweet dal, and shaak [which is a mix of vegetables and spices]) for dinner almost every night. When we didn’t, it was supplemented with foods like pasta, veggie burgers, and khichdi. We made different types of khichdi each time, based off of different familial recipes that were all named after the family member who introduced them. My mom had to make milder food for my sister, and while my sister loves spicy foods now, I’m still not a big fan. A side effect of growing up in a non-white, vegetarian family is that no one in my family has any idea of what white non-vegetarians eat. Like, at all. It’s kind of funny, to be honest. 

Holidays/Religion

My mom is a Vaishnav, and my dad is a Brahmin, so the way they both worship is very different. My dad’s family places a huge emphasis on chanting and prayer, as well as meditation. They mostly pray to capital-G G-d, as the metaphysical embodiment of Grace. My mom’s family, however, places emphasis on– I don’t want to say “idol worship" because of the negative connotations that has– but they worship to murtis, statues that represent our gods. My mom’s favored god to pray to is Krishna, and we have murtis in our home that she performs sevato every day.

We celebrate Janmashtmi, Holi, Diwali, Ganesha Puja, Lakshmi Puja– too many to count, really. We don’t always go all-out, especially on most of the smaller celebrations, but we do try and attend the temple lectures on those days, or host our own. We also celebrate Christmas and Easter secularly. I didn’t even know Christmas was a Christian holiday until I was in elementary school, and Easter until I was in high school.

Micro-Aggressions

Whooo, boy. Where do I start?

When my sister was in first grade, she had a friend. I’ll call her Mary. Mary, upon learning that my sister was not, in fact, Christian, brought an entire Bible to school and forced my sister to read it during recess, saying that otherwise, she wouldn’t be her friend anymore. Mary kept telling my sister that she would go to hell if she didn’t repent, and that our entire family was a group of “ugly sinners.” When my sister came to me for advice, I told her that Mary wasn’t her friend, that Mary wasn’t being nice, and that my sister wasn’t going to go to hell, and that we don’t even believe in hell. When my sister finally stood up to Mary and told her that she wasn’t going to listen to her anymore, Mary got angry and dumped a mini-carton of chocolate milk on her and told her that “now she looks like what she is– a dirty [the Roma slur term].” Not only was that inaccurate, it was extremely racist, and Mary was only reprimanded for the milk-spilling, not the racist remark that came with it. 

On top of that, since I have long hair, I’m always getting asked if so-and-so can touch it, or what I do to get it so long, or why I allow myself to be “shaped by such backwards ideals of women.” My name is never pronounced correctly, and I’ve been asked to give people my “American name” to be called by instead of my actual name. I’ve been called a terrorist, asked why I wasn’t wearing a hijab (by white people btw), and mocked for my food. I’ve been told that I wasn’t “really Indian” because I didn’t have a dot on my forehead. I’ve been told I wasn’t “really Hindu” because I had milk on my plate, by a white boy whose mom was a leader of a local choir.

I grew up in a town where only 4-5% of the population was South Asian, and there were a total of five South Asians in my grade level. The school administration consistently and intentionally placed us in different classes, and I never made a friend that was South Asian until 7th grade. When I came to the school, I was placed in ESOL without even being tested, while also being in the Advanced Readers class. The school didn’t even care to look at my school records before placing me into ESOL based on the color of my skin. 

Things I’d Like to See Less/More Of

I’d like to see less of the “nerd” stereotype, of the “weak, nonathletic” stereotype. I’d like to see less of the “prude” stereotype, of the “I hate my culture/feel I don’t belong” stereotype. I’d like to see less of the “rebellion” stereotype, of the “my parents are so strict and I hate them” stereotype. I never want to see the “unwanted arranged marriage” trope. Ever.

I want to see bulky, tall Indian characters. I’d like to see Indian characters confident in their sexuality, whether that’s not having sex (for LEGITIMATE reasons like risk of STDs, general awkwardness before and after The Deed, and wanting to wait, not “oh my parents said so and also I’m sheltered and innocent”), or having a new sexual partner every night.

I want Indian characters (especially children/teens!!!) proud of their culture and their heritage and their religion, whether that’s Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, or anything else. I want to see supportive Indian parents, I want to see more than chiding Indian grandmothers and strict Indian fathers. I want to see healthy arranged marriages, or healthy mixed-marriages. I want to see mixed Indian-POC couples, I want to see queer Indian couples.

I want to see body hair on female-presenting characters, I want to see more of India that isn’t “bustling market with the scent of spices in the air” and “poor slums rampant with disease” and “Taj Mahal”. I want to see casual mentions of prayer and Hinduism and Indian culture (a short “My mom’s at the temple, she can’t come pick us up” or a “what is it? i’m in the middle of a holi fight! eep! ugh, gulaab in my mouth” over a phone call, or a “she won’t answer until 12– she’s in her Bharatnatyam class/Gurukul class/doing seva/at the temple” would suffice). I want to see more Indian languages represented than just Hindi. There’s Tamil, Gujarati, Marathi, Nepali, and Kashmiri, just off the top of my head. The language your character speaks depends on the place they come from in India, and they might not even speak Hindi! (I don’t!)

I hate that Indian culture is reduced to “oppressive, strict, and prudish” when it's so much more than that. I hate that Indians are stereotyped to the point where it is a norm, and the companies reinforcing these stereotypes don’t take responsibility for their actions and don’t change. I hate the appropriation of Indian culture (like yoga, pronounced “yogh”, not “yo-gaaa” fyi, the Om symbol, meditation, and Shri Ganapathidada) and how normalized it is in Western society. 

This ended up a lot longer than I had expected, but I hope it helps! Good luck with your writing :)

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[imababblekat]

~Safe Place~

Chris Redfield X Reader:

You're woken from your sleep when Chris Redfield begins to have a nightmare about the events in Romania, and offer the BSAA Captain who showed up earlier that night some much needed comfort.

~xXx~

Being lightly nudged in the middle of your side wasn't enough to stir you from your deep slumber, but when you had been knocked off the couch, your eyes were wide and mind awake as day. You yawned and scratched your tussled bed hair, when the sounds of struggled grunting and soft cries caught your attention. Turning around you wasted no time in jumping to your feet and shaking the trembling man before you.

"Chris? Chris wake up!"

The man jostled awake, immediately on the defense but settled down when he saw your face despite the only light in the room being from your dimmed tv. Just as he was able to notice your face, you were able to notice his, and did not miss the streak of tears lining his cheeks. Chris sat up as you sat beside him, and looked to the side, hoping you'd let this go.

"I'm sorry. I should be going. It's late."

Like hell it was, but you weren't about to let the Hound Captain leave at O dark hundred in the morning after having just had a nightmare. Not to mention the fact that he had shown up at your door just a few hours prior. Thankfully for him, you were up bingeing your favorite show when you heard a light knock at your door. It was of complete shock to have opened it to the burly man you'd be come close friends with, standing there in the hall, eyes ghosted over and looking like he'd been to hell and back.

But he had been. He'd just gotten back not too long ago from a top secret mission in Romania, and though he'd most likely never tell you what happened, you didn't need to know to tell that it did not end well. Another heavy weight had been added to his shoulder, and he'd come to you to help carry it, something he'd never done with anyone. You'd welcomed him in with open arms, offered him tea, and casually talked about what'd you'd been up to while he was away, hoping the light conversation would help to distract him instead of making him feel that he needed to explain everything that he was feeling and was going through. You wanted him to tell you by choice, and only when he was comfortable, just as you knew he'd do for you.

However, with him reaching for his coat, with a hidden look of being a burden and guilt hidden in his stone eyes so very few could read, you weren't going to let him go. You reached over him, lightly but firmly placing your hand over his much larger one as it gripped his long coat. He still refused to look at you, even though deep down he dearly wanted to. Gingerly, when you were sure he wouldn't book it out of your small apartment, you reached up and helped him to face you by placing your hand against his cheek. An action that he had to restrain himself from melting against. Looking into his gaze with soft but worried eyes, you caressed your thumb over his stubble.

"You don't have to tell me about your nightmare, but know that I am here for you and you are never alone."

Chris stared at you, eyes tired but not from lack of proper sleep. Suddenly you'd been pulled into a tight hug, engulfed by his massive form, but in truth it was you who was his shield from the world tonight. You wasted no time in returning his embrace, rubbing soothing circles across his broad back as you felt and heard him suck in a breath against your neck to hold in a cry. It pained you so much to see and feel how much pain he was in, and you wished there was more you could do, but right now what he needed was to feel you close to him.

Chris Redfield was a strong man and a determined soldier. Add to that he was also a leader, and with it had to carry extra responsibilities and make tougher decisions. Ones that he couldn't afford to let effect him, especially in the face of others. But all that dust under the rug starts to build up, seep out, and become suffocating. You were his fresh of breath air from it all. His window to a brighter world that wasn't so dim and dirty and awful.

"Are. . .are you sure that it's alright for me to stay?", he asked with a hesitance that was so uncharacteristic of his normally strong personality.

Then again, tonight and probably for the next few days, you'd expect him to not be his normal self, but that was okay so long as he was able to let himself feel instead of holding back. You gave him a small squeeze, one that he had returned.

"Always.", you lightly kissed the side of his head.

Chris could never have imagined being so vulnerable with someone, and even though most probably wouldn't be able to tell he was, this was a huge step for him. He's just happy that of everyone in the world, that it's you he'd found a safe place.

~xXx~

[naranciasimp]

hey! could i request a prosciutto x female reader scenario where she comes back from a mission clearly hurt and panicked, and is afraid that her crush, prosciutto, is going to scold her so she tries to hide it and fake being well (while not being very good at it)

lots of fluff in the end pros takes care of her.. feel freed to add some things if you want to

I Could Never Be Mad At You

AN: This is probably the longest fanfic I have ever written. This ended up being more of a La Squadra x Reader than just Prosciutto but I hope you like it! Under the cut for length. 

You opened the door to La Squadra’s hidden base as quietly as you could. You poked your head around the door to make sure no one was there. Luckily it seemed as though everyone was doing their own thing.

You stumbled through the door while holding your side. You do not know how this happened. You were always so good on missions. You took down enemies left and right. Even Risotto was impressed by your skill.

Sadly, today was the day your winning streak came to an end. You didn’t kill your target, he got away. You felt guilty and nervous. This was going to set the whole team back a pay check, Risotto would have to go out of his way to clean up the mess you made and the other members would probably hate you for at least a month. The one thing you were most scared about was Prosciutto scolding you. You had a feeling he was going to extremely be disappointed and that was the last thing you wanted.

The pain you felt was insane. Everything hurt and you felt like you were on the verge of passing out. You just needed to make it to your room. You kept a secret med kit in there for situations like this.

After stumbling around you finally made it to the door of your room. You reached out to open it when someone appeared behind you. It was Pesci.

“Oh Y/N! You’re back. I didn’t even hear you come in,” he said in a happy tone. From where he was standing he couldn’t see the wounds on your body.

You hummed in response hoping that would be enough for him to leave you alone. You always talked to Pesci. Out of all of La Squadra you were by far the nicest to the boy.

Pesci could tell something was wrong when you didn’t face him with a bright smile like you normally do. “Y/N? Are you ok?”

The room began to go black. You could feel yourself losing consciousness. Before you could respond you felt your head fall back with the rest of your body.

Pesci quickly caught you before you hit the ground. He immediately saw the huge amount of blood covering your stomach. Your arms and legs were covered in gashes. Your head was bleeding and you had a black eye.

Pesci screamed at the sight of your unconscious, bloody, body in his hands. Your eyes fluttered open at the sound.

“Don’t…. tell….. Prosci-” Those were your last words before you passed out again. Of course that didn’t matter now. Pesci screamed and when something happened to him Prosciutto was always the first to show up.

Prosciutto ran to you both. “What happened,” he yelled. He saw Pesci holding what looked to be a girls body.

Pesci face was pale and it looked the most frightened Prosciutto had seen. “Fratello! Help!” Pesci moved so his brother could see what happened.

Prosciutto felt his heart stop. He was a man who stayed calm under pressure, the man who always had a plan, one of the best gang members Passione had ever seen. In this type of situation he would just yell at whoever got hurt to step up their game, patch up their wounds and hand them over to Melone so he could handle the rest. He would later come in to apologize for yelling, tell them he was proud of them and all of that other good stuff.

Now was different. Now it was you. His one weakness. The woman who he would do anything for. The one person he cared about the most.

“Fuck,” he muttered under his breath. “Pesci stay with her!” Prosciutto ran off to grab one of the medical kits.

“It’s gonna be okay Y/N just stay with us,” Pesci said. He was trying to be brave but the worry in his voice was clear. Prosciutto showed up again. He opened the door to your room and threw the med kit inside.

“Come on Pesci grab her feet, we’re going to put her on her bed.” The two boys easily carried you into your room and gently placed you down.

Prosciutto opened the medical kit and ordered Pesci to go tell Melone what happened. Once the younger boy left Prosciutto began to take off your clothes. He hoped one day he would see you undressed but he did not want it to be like this. Your unconscious body still laid on the bed now in just a bra and underwear.

Now that you were undressed Prosciutto could see all of the wounds you received. The most concerning one was on your stomach. You had been stabbed by something and by the looks of it you opened the wound more by moving.

Prosciutto was not the healer of the team by any means. He knew how to fix simple wounds and he was better at it then others but he didn’t even know where to begin with your wound.

Thankfully Melone was here at base today. He ran to the room with more medical supplies. “Move out of the way,” Melone ordered. Prosciutto did what he asked.

He began to get to work on your wound. Your injury brought a lot more attention to yourself then you would’ve liked. Soon enough the whole entire team was inside the room. There was lots of What happened? Is she ok? And many swear words beginning used.

“Everyone shut up! Risotto and Prosciutto stay here, the rest of you get out now,” Melone shouted. He was never one to lose his temper, that was Ghiaccio’s job. The more La Squadra yelled the more nervous Melone got, he did not want shaky hands while trying to keep you alive.

The whole room went silent and Melone continued his work. Everyone he ordered to leave left. They all sat outside your door waiting until they could come back in. Their “whispering” was incredibly loud but they were really trying their best to behave well.

Melone called Risotto over. “Try to see if you can stop all the iron from leaving her body.” The leader did as he was asked and activated his Stand. Prosciutto stood in the corner of the room waiting for commands from Melone, Risotto used his stand until the purple haired man was finally able to sew up the wound. 

After many hours the job was finally completed. Your body was cleaned of dried blood and all the cuts were bandaged up. Risotto slipped off his coat and very gently moved you into it. He had a feeling you would be upset if you woke up and were indecent. Melone cleaned up the room and put away the remaining medical supplies.

Risotto, Melone and Prosciutto left the room. They walked into the hallway and saw all the other men at their feet. They all stood up and faced Melone.

“Y/N is still unconscious. She was badly injured on her mission but we do not know how. Once she wakes we will figure out what happened. For now she just needs to rest. I fixed her up better than any doctor could, I promise you all she’ll be fine.”

The men all let out a sigh in relief. “Can we go see her,” Formaggio asked.

Melone shrugged. “I need to watch over her for the night to make sure nothing bad happens. If you wanted to I suppose you could stay in the room too. But you must be quiet.”

“I’ll spend the night with her too,” Prosciutto said. There was no way he was going to leave you alone in your current state.

“Ok! Does anyone else want to stay with us,” Melone asked.

“I do,” the whole group said in unison. They might be a group of deadly assassins but there was no denying how much they loved and cared for their teammates.

Melone let out a small laugh. “I’m afraid the room is too small for that.” Seems like Melone forget his friends are stubborn as all hell and don’t take no for an answer.

So everyone stuffed themselves into the room. Most of them laid on the floor. Only ones in chairs were Melone, Prosciutto and Risotto. Everyone tried their best to stay awake but it was so late at night and the stress had token a lot out of them. Even the three boys in chairs were beginning to get sleepy. Eventually everyone fell asleep except for Prosciutto. One of the most lovable qualities about Prosciutto is his will power. For a split second he heard a whine that sounded like yours. His eyes snapped open and he jumped out of his chair. He ran to your bedside.

“Y/N? Y/N are you awake,” Prosciutto asked desperately. There was no response. He felt tears prick his eyes. Was he really so in love with you that now he’s hearing your voice in his head?

“Where….. where am I,” you asked in a weak voice. The biggest smile appeared on Prosciutto face. You were alive, you were ok. “Your awake….” he cried loudly.

At the sound of the sudden commotion the whole team woke up. Illuso turned on the lamp next to him. “What the hell is going on?”

“Di Molto she’s ok,” Melone exclaimed. He ran up next to you. The rest of the team sprung up along with him to come see you.

“Don’t scare us like that,” Ghiaccio said. The whole team was very happy to see you awake. They began asking you questions left and right and trying to talk to you.

Prosciutto noticed how confused you looked. “Everyone get out. Y/N needs some time to collect her bearings.”

The whole team grumbled but did as they were told. “Feel better Y/N,” you heard Formaggio yell before he got the door slammed on him.

You tried to sit up but Prosciutto quickly stopped you. “Don’t do that, you could hurt yourself more.”

You hummed and refused to look him in the eyes. This was so embarrassing. You got so hurt you passed out and caused all of your friends to worry about you.

“Y/N, what happened on the mission,” Prosciutto finally asked.

“There was a Stand User and a group of men with him. His Stand nullified all Stand attacks. I just had to fight with my fists. They all had knives...”

Prosciutto sighed. It was no secret that you were the weakest of the group physically. You could handle one person of your size but nothing else. He should’ve been the one to go on that mission. Prosciutto was fairly strong and had perfect aim with his gun, if he was on the mission it would’ve been finished in no time.

“I’m sorry Y/N. I know you tried your best. From now on we’ll always send you out with a partner. You can be with me and Pesci, no one will hurt you then. At least those fucking bastards are killed now.”

You gulped. “A-about that….” You felt tears forming in your eyes. “I failed the mission, I couldn’t kill the target.”

Prosciutto eyes went wide. What? How did you fail a mission? That’s never happened and he was sure it never would. “Are you saying that those men who hurt you are still out there alive?”

You sadly nodded. “Prosciutto please don’t be mad. I’m so sorry, I’ll do anything to make it up to the team and you.”

He patted your head. “Dolcezza, I’m not mad at you.” He gave you a loving smile and kissed your cheek. “I’ll be right back, stay here.”

The nickname and the kiss left you too flustered to do anything. Your crush just kissed you and acted like it was nothing!

While you flipped out over the kiss Prosciutto was angrily stomping to the main room. He slammed open the door. The boys looked to him and asked what happened.

“Their still alive. Y/N couldn’t finish the mission. The sick assholes who hurt my girl are still out there. Get them.”

The team usually takes their orders from Risotto. Prosciutto has never sent anyone on a mission. Right now though things were different.

Risotto stood up. “I’ll go.” Ghiaccio stood up too. “I’m coming with you. I don’t want any of those mother fuckers to be alive by the end of the night.”

Prosciutto was very happy that those two men were going. He knew they would give the target what they deserved. The blond headed back to your room and the other members waited for their turn to see you.

He saw you crying. “No no, don’t cry Bella. I promise you no one is upset with you.”

You choked on your sobs. “But I heard yelling and doors slamming.”

He grabbed your hand and gently rubbed it. “They were just excited to get their revenge on the people who hurt you, that’s all.”

Prosciutto had never been this gentle with anyone ever. He was treating you like a glass that could be broken at any minute.

You couldn’t fight the blush that was creeping onto your face. Prosciutto noticed it and gave you another kiss. “I’m very proud of you Y/N, as a teammate and as your lover.” For the rest of the night Prosciutto never once left your side. He was going to be there for you no matter what.

[lubdubsworld]

Blackberry Winters.

PART 1 🌸 PART 2

Namjoon Werewolf Au!! 

Pack Head Alpha Namjoon and mate OC!

Arranged marriage sort of?

Pack dynamics / strangers to lovers. 

Part 3

“You did not think to tell him no? To demand that you had every right to stay there?” Her mother in law looked disappointed ,  eyes trained on her as Jiah carefully pulled the blouse of the tunic down over her tummy, frowning when she realized that it didn’t do a thing for her figure.

She felt self conscious, the grey cotton of the tunic making her feel drab and lifeless. Why did she always choose clothes in colors like this? Why did none of them fit her right? Why did she never make an effort to look at least a little good. Her hair was limp, a mousy brown and while it was thick, it had no luster… Why didn’t she use one of the hundred powdered mixtures the village healer liked to give the younger women?

“Jiah, are you listening to me?” Namjoon’s mother said sharply and Jiah jumped a bit, guilty.

“I didn’t want to be a bother..”  She said nervously, not sure how to handle her mother in law. On the one hand she seemed to be understanding of her many hang ups, but she also looked impatient and upset, anytime Jiah failed to stand up for herself.

Lady Kim drew herself up to her impressive height and Jiah cowered. She’d hung around enough pack bonfires to recognize that stance and that gaze. The woman was about to give her a piece of her mind.

Sure enough, her voice thundered when she addressed her.

“If you keep viewing yourself as a bother, I’m not sure how others will begin seeing you as anything else. You’re the head alpha’s mate. Your place is by his side, helping him with the crown on his head. It’s not a choice. Your duties are not mine and I am tired of doing them for you.” She snapped.

It stung. Guilt churned and Jiah could feel the beginnings of one of her episodes. The ones that always left her shaking and breathless. Much to her surprise, Lady Kim’s gaze softened at that and the next second she was being drawn into a warm embrace.

“Good lord child, why are you so terrified? Has my family not been kind enough to take away this stark terror out of your veins?” She sighed deeply. “You must not let your fears dictate your life. I want you to live your life, pleasing the person you’re bound to .”

Jiah felt her shoulders sag. Please the person she was bound to.  Of course. Namjoon. It all came down to the alpha wolf. And how was she supposed to please him, if he couldn’t bear to be in the same room as her?

“Yourself.” Lady Kim’s voice, laced with amusement made her jump.

Jiah frowned, pulling back to look at the older woman in confusion.

“You’re bound only to yourself , Jiah. You need to please yourself. To do and be the person you want to be. And then everything else will fall into place.”

Jiah watched as the woman went back to the door, calling for and directing a few more workers as they finished setting up the outer courtyard of her living quarters. Still a little chilled, she grabbed a thick coat from the small cupboard by the door, draping it over herself and tying it together with the sash. She moved quickly to the door, watching her mother in law talk to the workers, looking them straight in the eye , firm and clear in her instructions.

It was fascinating.

Lady Kim’s stance fairly vibrated with power and her voice brooked no disobedience. People looked at her and listened. They saw someone who knew what she was talking about and many a time, Jiah had felt it herself, the comfort of someone reliable. Someone who wished no ill on anyone.

Namjoon’s mother had lost her husband at a young age. Namjoon had scarcely been a babe of two when it had happened and the entire pack had expected the young wolf to lose his birthright as the heir. It was unheard of for a mate to take over the head alpha’s duties but Lady Kim had risen to the occasion with an elegance that had stunned everyone. The woman had met pack leaders and settled disputes, had negotiated boundary conflicts and made elaborate plans for new buildings , all while carrying around a babe that was still fed at her breast.

What was more, she had defended her position against the men who had wanted to usurp it. Mnhyuk and Jaejoon were two of her husband’s cousins, eager to sink their fangs into the woman to mate her, just to be able to get their hands on the pack. They were terrible men , even worse wolves. Their ideas on how the pack ought to be run dripping with archaic ideals and oppression of women.

But Lady Kim had humiliated them, told the whole pack in no uncertain terms that the next pack alpha would be Kim Namjoon. Her son would be raised to rule the pack with kindness and understanding and she would make sure of it.

The tales were told with hushed tones of disbelief and admiration and Jiah had listened to them with hunger and aching. Had felt such a huge surge of affection for the matron , had wanted to hug her and tell her she had done a great job.

And standing here as her daughter in law, she realized that she would be a fool not to listen to her. Not to learn from her. Especially when it was obvious that in the entire pack, the only one who didn’t seem to hold Kim Namjoon on a pedestal, was ironically his own mother.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“ They’re going to challenge you again. I can feel it.” Taehyung said gruffly, dropping the bundle of scrolls on the table and Namjoon flinched, head throbbing.

“That bad?” He asked hesitantly and Taehyung nodded.

“They want you to re-negotiate that treaty about courtesans owning property. Think it would make them quit the profession… if you let them own stuff” Seokjin said quietly and Namjoon bristled.

“They are no different from any of us. They work for their pay too. Why shouldn’t they be allowed to do what they wish with money that they’ve earned?” He demanded angrily.

“You’re a good man Namjoon. A fair one. And you’re striving to build a pack that treats all it members as equals . Obviously people who thrive on abusing their power aren’t going to like that. Especially Minhyuk and Jaejoon’s pups. Those two are terrible.”

“You should accept their challenge and just rip their throats out someday.” Taehyung said firmly AND Namjoon gave him a glare.

“I’m not going to shed blood without cause, Taehyung. Don’t suggest that. Even in passing.” He said firmly and the younger beta bowed politely in apology.

“Where is Jiah?” Seokjin asked casually.

Namjoon glanced at him, brows raised.

“Since when are you so familiar with my mate, hyung?”

Seokjin rolled his eyes.

“She used to come sit with me, when I watched over the herds on the outer pastures. Sweet little thing really. Very funny too.”

That made Namjoon pause.

“Funny?” He asked, completely confused.

“Witty. She would make these clever little riddles and jokes that would always leave me in stitches. We made a game of it. I would give her one of my funny jokes and she would give me a riddle. Is she feeling better now?”

Namjoon who was still kind of struck dumb by the idea of his cowering, reticent mate doing something as…. Normal and friendly as laughing and being witty….. could only stare at Seokjin in confusion.

“I…. Yes. She’s well. We’re expecting a pup.” He said softly.

Both Taehyung and Seokjin went still.

“What?!!! Why didn’t you say that first?!!” Taehyung exclaimed, offended.

“It’s not that important…” Namjoon waved it off, reaching for the scrolls , “ what about the treaties, then? You did tell Jungkook we aren’t changing anything right?”  

Seokjin scoffed.

“ Only you would say that these treaties are more important than your own pup.” He snapped.

Namjoon sighed a bit at that.

“I don’t mean that. I’m just saying, what she needs now is to rest and take care of herself and the baby. I’m not what she needs . I’ve arranged for her to stay in some private quarters with the other women.”

Seokjin sighed deeply. After years of being one of Namjoon’s trusted friends, he could feel his heart ache for the younger and all that he hid from the people around him. He reached out and gently placed a palm on Namjoon’s shoulder.

“ Namjoon, you don’t have to do all of this by yourself. Tae and I , we can take over duties a couple of days a week… You can relax… Maybe spend some time with your new wife….”

“She hates me.” Namjoon said softly. “ I spent a whole month trying to talk to her, all she did was tremble and shake. Even when we…” Namjoon exhaled sharply, “ Even in bed , she made me feel like I was some kind of…. Predator.”

Taehyung bit his lips, looking worried.

“You’re not… You’re not going to break the bond are you?” He asked nervously.

Namjoon sighed.

“I’m not. I may have considered it, before . But now… She’s with pup. I can’t do that to her. I don’t want to either.”

“Why did you pick her?”

Namjoon stayed quiet.

“Because you wanted a wife who wouldn’t ask or demand or complain.” Taehyung said distastefully.

“That’s not… You make it sound so terrible. I’m supposed to be taking over pack duties, supposed to renegotiate every single treaty we’ve drawn in the past twenty years, not to mention get the entire pack ready for the winter…. Of course I wanted a wife who would adjust. Have you seen the omegas in our clan? The ones I could court ? They want to leave on trips… They want to visit the neighbouring packs…. They want me to arrange festivities and feasts for every damn thing…. You think I can marry someone like that??” Namjoon snapped angrily. “none of them understand a damn thing about helping me out. They’re shallow and vain. Jiah… I chose her because she didn’t seem like one of them. She seemed like she could understand what it means to be my wife. But I was wrong. I thought she understood my responsibilities and was giving me my space…. Turns out she just thinks I’m some kind of monster she needs to run and hide from.”

Seokjin reached out, patting his back soothingly.

“Namjoon I understand… It’s been hard on you, and you’ve been doing all of it by yourself. Its bound to take a toll. And that’s why I think you should take a few days off, a week. Give us all the instructions. We’ll carry it all out. You can relax.”

“That’s exactly what my uncles want. For me to slack off. They’ll summon the council and want to challenge me again. I can’t afford it. “ Namjoon shook his head.” Not until the babe is born and my position as pack alpha is solidified. I can’t let them use this against me.”

Seokjin and Taehyung exchanged looks.

“Joon-ah….”

Namjoon gave both of them a tired smile.

“I’ll be fine hyung. It’s going to be okay.”  He said reassuringly. “ The council’s meeting tomorrow right? I’ll try to go over these tonight.”

“Its already past sundown.” Taehyung said worriedly.

“Then I better ask the maids to keep enough oil for the lamp to last.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“What are you doing here?” Namjoon blinked, staring at her like she was out of her mind and Jiah flinched. Maybe this whole thing was a mistake. But the sight of him made something curl in the pit of her stomach. He looked exhausted. Like he had been up all night. She wondered if perhaps she ought to retreat. Go back to the private quarters he’d arranged for her.

No. No , you will not chicken out of this.

“ You have a council meeting, this evening. Could I come with you?.” She said softly, watching his face carefully. She tried to read his emotions, tried to look for traces of irritation or anger but all she found was a sort of hopeless resignment. Like he had stopped trying to fight whatever was bringing him down.

“Come with me….?? ” Namjoon stared at her like he wasn’t quite sure what she was talking about.

She inhaled sharply.

“Your mother told me I could go. As your mate, I’m allowed to sit in on council meetings. She told me it’s a new provision. That you were the one who had it written in. So perhaps, you should… let me come with you.”

“My mother-“ He paused, sighing. “ You don’t have to do everything my mother asks you to.”

She blinked, the words throwing her off. The truth was, she had been the one, tailing the older woman all day, trying to see what she did and how she did it. Lady Kim had merely offered to help her do her duties. She had mentioned in passing, that for centuries , mates hadn’t been granted many rights of their own. Namjoon had spent the past couple of years making a lot of amendments to pack laws and the council hadn’t taken to kindly to all of them.

“ Of course. I just thought that, as I am your mate , perhaps I should accompany you. ” It was a miracle, the way her voice came out, steady . Not at all betraying the nervousness coursing through her veins.

“Jiah…. I’m not sure.” His voice dripped with hesitation and she flinched. Oh, well, no one could blame her for not trying.

“If you don’t want me there, that’s fine.” She said quickly.” I’ll go…”

She turned around, feeling her face burn red as she quickly descended the stairs to the courtyard.

“Jiah wait!!” His voice made her still.

She turned around swiftly.

“I didn’t mean to imply that I did not want you there. I just….Council meetings aren’t short. They tend to go on for hours. Will you be alright?” He asked gently, gaze dropping surreptitiously to her middle.  

It took her a minute to understand what he was even talking about.

“I… Oh.” She quickly pressed her palms to her stomach, confused. “ I mean… I may have to be excused a couple of times to relieve myself. I’ve been doing that way more often than usual.” She laughed.

Namjoon’s lips quirked in a hint of a smile and she flushed. Surely, her stern mate didn’t want to hear about her body functions? What was she even doing…

“But, yes. I wouldn’t mind sitting with you. Truly.” She said quickly.

Namjoon nodded.

“Well, then. You can come with me. It’s an hour before sundown… I’ll come fetch you myself.”

“Yes , alpha.” She said brightly, curtsying lightly and immediately feeling like a fool.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“They’re called red feathers …” The healer, a middle aged woman called Selma,  opened a small earthenware jar to show her the contents. Jiah peered into the jar, catching sight of a bundle of dried flowers and roots.

“These can help me…?” She asked dubiously and Selma gave a quiet chuckle.

“They help you sleep better and also help you relax. They’re good for you. You won’t feel this anxious if you take them regularly.” She said calmly.

“Oh… alright.” Jiah nodded, glancing carefully at her mother in law who was standing elsewhere, looking through an assortment of salves and tinctures. “ Can I…. is this safe for Namjoon?”

Lady Kim stilled, turning around to glance at her sharply and Jiah stiffened. God, her impulsive mouth. She wasn’t even sure why she said it. Just the whole , helps sleep better , had immediately reminded her of how tired Namjoon had looked.

“I’ve already tried to get him to drink some of it. He refuses.” Lady Kim said tiredly. “ He feels that it may affect his mental faculties”

“Auntie Selma?” A high, soft voice rang through the hut and Jiah glanced up. She went still, catching sight of Jisoo, dressed in red velvet and all of her ornate jewelry.

“Ah… Jisoo…you’re back.” Selma said cheerfully. “ How can I help you child?”

Jisoo stared at her, eyes steady and unreadable.

“I need some wild carrot seeds and ginger roots.” She said softly and Lady Kim scoffed.

“I hope the man you’re taking into your bed is not who I think it is , Jisoo.” She growled. The younger woman merely bowed.

“I’m but a courtesan, my lady. I go where I am asked to.” She said softly.

Lady Kim sighed.

“Then perhaps you should go back home. Now.” She said sharply and jisoo flushed and ugly red.

“Your son wants me to visit him for tea , this evening. I was hoping to meet my lovely lady there…but I hear you no longer stay in his hut.” Jisoo turned to her, tone dripping with acid and Jiah swallowed nervously.

“I… I’m…” She couldn’t quite talk, much less think of something to say.

“Because she is with child.” Lady Kim said sharply, a hint of triumph in her tone. “ Namjoon’s child.”

Jisoo had gone paper white, her face pale and bloodless.

“What?” She whispered.

“It’s true. She carries my son’s heir. You know what that means, Jisoo. It means they are bound, for life. I like you. I respect your courage and admire your talents. You are beautiful and you deserve a mate of your own. Do not pursue my son.” Lady Kim said firmly.

Jisoo didn’t respond for a few seconds.  

And then she bowed again .

“Like I said, my lady. I only go where I am called.” She said quietly.

She turned on her heels, stalking away and Jiah could only stare after her, heart pounding a bit at what had just happened. She wasn’t sure why she felt so much disquiet. She’d never had high hopes of fidelity from Namjoon. The entire village knew that Jisoo had been his paramour. But now that she had seen how dismissive the younger girl was of her, she felt the unaccountable urge to fight back. To stake her claim.

“You look pretty upset. Don’t let her bother you. Namjoon will not break his vows.” Lady Kim said quietly and Jiah gave her a soft smile, although her heart still raced. She remembered how pretty the girl had looked in all her brocades and velvets. She stared down at her own murky yellow dress. She couldn’t go to the council meeting, dressed worse than a courtesan. Couldn’t embarrass Namjoon like that.

“ My Lady….” She turned to her mother in law. The older woman hummed, returning to examining the shelves.

“What is it, child?”

“Can we stop at the seamstress’ hut on our way back?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Whatever Namjoon had been expecting, as he knocked on his wife’s private quarters, it hadn’t been this.

He stared , or to be more accurate, gaped at his wife, completely thrown by her appearance.

She looked…. Cheerful.

That was the only word he could think of, taking in the warm yellow and green fabric of her gown, all with an abundance of ribbons and lace. She had also clearly made some effort to tame her hair.

Not a very successfully attempt, considering the dozen strands sticking out of her bun and curling over her bare neck and shoulders …..but an attempt nonetheless.

Which reminded him.

Why was her neck bare?

“I…. have you forgotten… part of your dress…?” He asked awkwardly, gaze trained on the pale, blemish less expanse of skin in front of him. Too much of it was on display he felt.

“Oh?” Jiah twirled about for a second, glancing at herself. “ Not at all, my alpha. This is how it is.”

Namjoon blinked.

“Right… the night is getting colder. Perhaps a shawl?” He suggested tactfully.

Jiah frowned, sticking a hand out of the door as though to the gauge the night air.

“Really? Feels quite warm to me.” She said thoughtfully.  

“It may be cold for the baby.” He said quickly and that made her pause. She glanced back down at her tummy and he wondered what she expected to see, every time she did that.

“Perhaps you’re right alpha….let me be back.” She floated back into the hut and he sighed in relief when she reappeared with a white fleece shawl over her shoulders.

“Shall we go ?” She asked quietly and he hesitated before slowly offering her his arm. She gripped it lightly, and they began the short walk to the main village square where the council usually convened.

“You… You’re better adjusted to this place now?” He asked carefully, trying to find the girl he had taken to his bed. The terrified, nervous , trembling young girl.

Jiah didn’t respond at once.

“I… I’ve been drinking some of Selma’s potions. They help.” She said quietly and he frowned.

“Potions? Potions for what?”

“They help with my nerves. I get scared easily…imagine things ….” She trailed off nervously.” I’m very anxious by nature and it gets worse in a new place. With new people.”

Namjoon considered that carefully. That made sense. Perhaps, that was why she had been so odd.

“The potions help?” He asked carefully and she nodded.

“Yes…that and your mother.”

“My mother?”

“She’s very kind to me.”

Namjoon laughed a bit at that. In all the years he has had people talking to him about his mother, the word ‘kind ‘ had never come up.

“ I’m being honest….she has helped me adapt to this place. To see how things are run. I… I don’t want to be a bother. I want to pull my weight. In the pack. To help in any way I can…”

Namjoon felt a sudden unaccountable fondness bloom in his chest at the innocent words.

“ That’s very virtuous of you.” He said seriously and she flushed.

They didn’t say anything else, continuing the rest of the path in companionable silence Namjoon spotted the seven council members gathered around a blazing fire and lightly stepped closer to her.

“You can stay close to me. You don’t have to answer them.  If they try to draw you into any controversial topic, just ignore them. I’ll handle it.” He said quickly.

Jiah gave him a wide eyed, nervous look but nodded quickly, fingers moving from his forearm to his palm , linking with his own and gripping tight.

“I’m here. You’re not alone.” She said quickly and it was ridiculous, how the words actually helped him relax just a little.

Taking a deep breath, he led her on to the meeting.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Author’s Note : i thinks its about time i accepted that this is a full blown fic and not just a drabble. fuck my life. 

Note : Red feathers are actually herbal medicines used as anti depressants. So this is just werewolf au equivalent of therapy. 

[kokichixreaderthings]

Kokichi and his s/o during Christmas??

Kokichi and his s/o during Christmas! <3

yes!! posting this when christmas day is a few hours away for me!!💚❤️i hope everyone who celebrates has a wonderful christmas!!!✨✨✨

christmas is kinda fun for kokichi!

his favorite part is how over the top he can be with it!!

like for example, he really likes the whole extravagant part of decorating

he’s the supreme leader after all!!

there’s no way he could just hang up just a few decorations at D.I.C.E. headquarters

no, the whole place is fully decorated

like fully, fully decorated

mistletoe at every single doorway, lights on every wall, christmas trees in every room, a life sized rudolph the reindeer-

and he did it all himself too! as the supreme leader of D.I.C.E. he appoints it as his responsibility

when he shows you, its pretty surprising that there was so much effort put in

“sooooo, my beloved, what do you think?” 

he has such a huge grin on his face, he’s so proud of his own excessive decorating-

it’s so cute, make sure to compliment him!!

he’d never genuinely tell you that he actually wants compliments though

and if you want him to decorate your room too, he’ll totally do it!

“of course y/n! buuuut you’ll have to pay me a preeettty big price...lots and lots of cuddles, okay? nishishi!”

and he’s also definitely the type to play christmas music wayyyyyy too early

just to annoy people!

like it turns september 1 and he starts playing music because...

“heyyyy i’m just getting ready for the christmas season!! i need tons of time to prepare for the preparation of the season!”

that’s your boyfriend, the one that starts celebrating christmas in september :)

also as mentioned, he likes putting mistletoes in a lot of places....

he really hopes you’ll end up under one of them with him

like yeaaa he can kiss you at any time he wants because you two are dating but...

it’s wayy more fun under a mistletoe!!

he loves having an excuse to kiss you and he loves teasing you too!

“nishishi! i guess we have to kiss now! it’s the law to kiss under a mistletoe y’know?”

it’s usually just quick kisses but sometimes if you two are alone, the kisses are longer and more passionate

“i..really do love kissing you, beloved. and that’s not a lie.”

and on Christmas day, he hangs a mistletoe over you two as soon as he sees you!

“ooh, looks like you gotta kiss me again!”

and he wants you to be with D.I.C.E. during Christmas!

D.I.C.E. means a lot to him and you mean a lot to him so of course he wants you to come!

“pweety pwease spend Christmas with me? it’ll be sooooo fun!!”

but if you have to visit your family and stuff, he’s okay with that, he just wants to see you eventually!

…it doesn’t mean he won’t be texting you constantly over exaggerating how much he misses you

“*y/n christmas isn’t fun without youuu!!! :( :(*”

and of course, if you have any issues with your family he’ll be texting you the whole time and telling you how wonderful you you are!!

“*y/n you’re wayyyyy better than your loser family!!! you’re the supreme leader’s significant other !! and you’re sooooo beautiful tooo!!!!! 💜💜💜💜*”

and when you finally show up to D.I.C.E.’s celebration he’s so excited to see you!!

he can’t lie about the way his eyes light up when you walk in

“y/n!!!! i missed you so much!!! i almost died without you y’know?”

and as soon you show up, you’re basically treated as his king/queen (whichever you prefer) !

D.I.C.E.’s celebrations are pretty big, with loud music and games and stuff like that!

but if you have an issue with so much intensity, he’d definitely tone it down for when you came

he wants you to be comfortable and have this be a good christmas for you!!

and other than him getting into the whole holiday spirit and being a little annoying with it he really likes being soft with you as well

holiday seasons are times to be meaningful and stuff...

when D.I.C.E. isn’t looking, he kisses your cheek and holds your hand and just does sappy stuff like that

he wants to be soft and sappy with you without anyone watching <3

like with presents! 

he doesn’t want to give you a heartfelt gift in front of people!

not even D.I.C.E.!

so he waits until you two are alone and cuddling

which btw his cuddles with you when the whole day is over are the best

he’s tired from all the festivities and being so loud and extra all the time, so he just softly lays with you and plays with your hair

he trusts you at this point so he’s okay with being soft and vulnerable a bit

lots of soft kisses and stuff

as for what present he gets you…

it depends on what you like!

he really will spend a lot of time on it and look for what you might want

and he doesn’t just get you one present, he gets you a lot!

he also probably gets you some sort of sappy couple thing where you two can match shirts or something

you just mean a lot to him and you make him really happy, he wants you to know that!!

“*mwah* merry christmas, my beloved!”

he just really loves you a lot and he’s happy to spend the Christmas season with you💜

thank you so so much for reading!! always remember kokichi ouma loves you!!!!!!💜💜💜💜💜

[darkandstormyart]

Xicheng fic recs

(figured i might make a list of my own)

(to be expanded as i dig out more treasure/remember stuff)

in no particular order:

Deep as the Yearning Night by FreckledStarKnight

“At first, it was pure chance. The second time was accidental. And the third time? Well, they say the third time’s the charm, after all. Lan Xichen discovers that Jiang Wanyin sings beautifully and is immediately enamored by it. His pursuit of Jiang Wanyin’s secret talent leads to a discovery and a series of events that he did not anticipate at all. Not that he’s complaining, of course. He got what he came for and more. Or, how two sect leaders get together through the song called love. CQL-verse.“

post-seclusion lxc

trying to get jc to sing

bonus lxc & jin ling feels i hadn’t considered before

cute

Always use protection by hesselives

“In which Lan Wangji attempts to hire a new bodyguard for his older brother, a well-known traveling exorcist. Jiang Wanyin doesn’t even make his carefully considered list of Top Ten Candidates, and yet here he is.

Lots of wandering in the countryside, distant yelling, and mildly inconvenient spirits.”

bodyguard au

honestly just really intersting worldbuilding

Rewrite the stars by Arashii

“Five great kingdoms have been fighting for years and when the kingdom of Yunmeng is destroyed, the Crown Prince Jiang Cheng vanishes.In Gusu, Lan Xichen makes an offer impossible for Jiang Cheng to refuse. His life or revenge? There’s only one option and Jiang Cheng swears loyalty to the man he hated the most his whole life, the Crown Prince of Gusu, Lan Xichen himself.Written for XiChengFest2020 - Day 4“

ROYALTY AU ROYALTY AU

enemies to lovers!

flashbacks! i love flashbacks so much ohmygod

No paths are bound by Arashii

“In seclusion, Lan Huan has the support of a ghost no one has seen since the massacre of Yunmeng Jiang. His feelings start changing with the often visits and conversations they share. Before Lan Huan can confess though, he ascends, leaving everything and everyone behind him.

Two hundred years later, back to the Human Realm and without powers, the Martial God Zewu-Jun has a mission to uphold. His Heavenly Calamity started. The clues are little and the support comes in the most unexpected form, the current Ghost King: Sandu Shengshou. Now they need to stick together to contain a menace that is slowly growing.“

TGCF AU TGCF AU

ghost king jiang cheng come on

doesn’t follow tgcf plot, just the setup so no spoilers

jiang cheng gets the dogs and the xichen he deserves

once upon a dream by cafedeolla

“Xicheng soulmate AU

An au where your dreams are small snippets of your soulmate’s day. They’d show small things like buying coffee, reading a book, or hanging out with people from their perspective.

The problem was that people always have expectations and Jiang Cheng knows he always falls short of them. Time and time again.“

soulmate au, but being soulmates is more a problem than a solution

misunderstandingssss all over the place

now with a squel (in progress?)

Lan Furen series by jagaimocchi

“Jiang Cheng leaves Lotus Pier before the Wen Internment Camp and before the destruction of his home. When he meets Lan Xichen on the run from the Wens after the burning of Cloud Recesses, his plan to live a peaceful life away from cultivation sects is quickly derailed. Now, free to make his own choices, he cannot find it in himself to leave the other man's side.

With love, patience and time, Jiang Cheng finds his own happiness and peace with his past.“

have you ever wanted a fic where jiang cheng peaces out from home in search for a better life, bc he’s Had Enough??? jags got you covered

adorable xicheng

good uncle-dad-figure Lan Qiren

ongoing <3

Just around the riverbend by JungleJelly

“One day.

Jiang Cheng just wanted one day of peace and quiet, away from home, away from his responsibilities, away from his idiot brother and his nutcases of a mother and father. Just a few hours alone — him and a boat and nothing else.

Clearly, that was too much to ask for.”

now with a new story in the series which is adorable too!!!

mermaid!lxc need i say more?

Bad ideas (where they lead) by JungleJelly

“Jiang Cheng is a busy man. Fortunately, he is also a huge pushover when it comes to his sister, so when she recommends that he start doing yoga, he agrees pretty easily.Featuring Lan Xichen in yoga pants, Jiang Cheng’s inability to handle a crush, and, perhaps most importantly, a big fluffy dog.“

done for 2020 MXTX MiniBang

yoga instructor Lan Xichen

Jiang Cheng is: struggling with a crush on the yoga guy from youtube & very angry about that

If there’s a price for rotten judgement by TheWanderingHeart

“All Jiang Cheng wants to do is, well... his job, really. Other than that? Keep the city safe, keep his nephew alive, keep his sanity intact (if possible).

So when his brother calls with unexpected news, he knows all of that is about to fly out of the window.

***

[Every instinct is telling him don’t ask, you don’t want to know. By this point, Nie HuaiSang has scooted closer to listen. Jiang Cheng takes a steadying breath and pulls out his antacids. “What did you do?”]”

superhero au, come on

jc just trying to do his job in peace

(he can’t)

i love it so much oh my god *sobs*

The Form of Boneless Ice by TheWanderingHeart

“Mythical beasts have long ago been driven to extinction by the gentry — hunted for sport, but more importantly for their magical cores. Since then, there remains only one creature that has never been caught. The Jiang’s retreated a long time ago. Abandoning land altogether, they sought safety where the humans could not reach.It all comes to a head though, purely by chance. (Or is it by fate that a spontaneous decision allows for them to meet? If fate were a rock!) Jiang Cheng suddenly finds his whole life balanced on the head of a pin — on the flimsy promise of a human boy. In his opinion, things cannot possibly get worse!(But then they do when the Wens decide it’s finally time to search for the elusive merpeople, and suddenly nowhere is safe.)“

there she goes again, with another beautiful xicheng story full of awwww and mythology

actually one of the first xicheng fics i read

i chose it because there were mermaids

painfully accurate takes on Jiang family dynamics

kids! lots of kids!

Let me Slytherin to Your Heart by TheWanderingHeart

“Jiang Cheng never thought he'd return to Hogwarts, but in hindsight, he probably should have known that someday he would.With his nephew about to start school, he reluctantly takes his good friend's bad parenting? career? advice and ends up tumbling head-first back into the madness that he hoped he'd left behind... and rediscovering some feelings he thought he'd left behind too.“

Harry Potter au!

just really fecking cute

lots of snakes

[I am not going to link all of Jo’s fics, though I probably could, just my 3 favourites. UOSB is there by default]

Talent Hunt Crew Finds Angry Guy Shouting On College Campus, Recruits Him For Vocal Projection Abilities by oh_fudgecakes

“Jiang Cheng, resident Angry Guy and heir to a conglomerate empire, has never been the apple of his father’s eye. Quashed under the shadow of his brilliant brother, the music prodigy Wei Wuxian, Jiang Cheng sees his chance to turn things around when he is recruited by the All-Stars Lan Talent Hunt. One problem: he can’t sing to save his goddamn life.As he struggles to develop his nascent singing abilities, Jiang Cheng finds himself sucked into the whirlwind drama of reality TV, helped along by his adoring siblings, his irritable vocal coach Wen Qing, and strangely enough, the unfairly attractive host of the All-Stars Lan Talent Hunt, Lan Xichen. Somewhere in the glare of the stage lights and an unexpected first love, Jiang Cheng stumbles upon the thing he was searching for all along: the courage to dream — and to attempt the impossible.“

done for 2019 MXTX Big Bang

uuuuuuuuuuh i might have cried maybe

heartwarming? painful at times? lots of family love?

slowburn xicheng being lovely

The Provenence of Hope series by velithya

“A chance meeting on a night hunt sets a course of events into motion that will change everything. Featuring Xicheng getting together, recovery for Lan Xichen, healing for Jiang Cheng, and always, always, hope.“

got everything. feels. hope. love. ~~healing~~

A Small Measure of Peace by Sandstone112

“With his brother in seclusion, Lan Xichen finds himself in temporary custody of his nephew with little to no expertise in the child-raising department. Uncertain and alone, Zewu-Jun is willing to do everything to be the person Yuan needs—even if it means inviting Sandu Shengshou to a playdate.“

a loooot of adorable family times with jc and lxc taking care of their nephews

good grandpa lqr!

canon but fixed and less painful

🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋if you wish to avoid scurvy:🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋

Some day I’m gonna make you mine series by locketofyourhair

xicheng getting together through the years

friends with benefits but the real benefits are the friends we made along the way

Take me over (take me tonight) by velithya

jiang cheng has a tattoo and lan xichen doesn’t stand a chance

i'd be the sweet feeling of release (mankind now dreams of) by piyo13

two bros, chilling in a cave, no feet apart because they don’t want to lose their cultivation powers what are you gonna do

haven’t read yet and shame on me, but AM GONNA:

Upon Our Silver Bridge by TheWanderingHeart obviously

““When the path ignites a soul, there's no remaining in place. The foot touches ground, but not for long.” ― Hakim Sanai

**

Lan Xichen's sorrows have caught the attention of something. Unlike the adventures and foes they have faced before, there is no obvious enemy here to defeat. If this is the same thing they thought had taken Nie Mingjue's life, then he believes it is fated for him to die as well. Nothing can stop the black fire when it wants to burn.Jiang Cheng is sure his part in this is over. Wei Wuxian is back, his grand adventure concluded, and he'd never been at the centre of it anyway. So what does it matter what happens to him in the end? Slowly, he will come to realise that there will always be a battle to fight, a story to tell, a choice to make, and there is no such thing as an end to anything.“

it was difficult to do things in 2020 and few i regret not doing more than not reading uosb yet :’(

i will tho

Emergency Help Wanted by piyo13

“EMERGENCY HELP WANTED I lied when I got my job. I told them I had a kid so I could leave early from work to pick him up from daycare, take him to doctor's appointments, and occasionally miss a day when he's sick. Long story short, I'm in too deep. I didn't think it through. Looking to rent a kid for bring your child to work day. Must be a boy ages four to six, longish dark hair, likes soccer. Must also be artistic as the macaroni noodle paintings I made seem a little advanced for his age. Also, I will pay extra for someone willing to play the role of husband when dropping him off. He's a prosecuting attorney who often brings his work home. Message me for further details. Serious inquiries only.“

Running Our Hands Through Embers by MarvelousMar

“If asked, Jiang Cheng would compare falling in love with Lan Xichen to a moth inevitably drawn to a flame.It burned.***In which Jiang Cheng discovers that even death can't help him escape from his trauma, so he embarks on a quest to save the people he loves, fix what he can, make the love of his life fall for him, and maybe, somewhere along the way, do a little bit of healing.”

The Beginner’s Guide to Moving On by InvincibleMel

gone from ao3, but i think there’s a link with a pdf going around

[kylorenisadorkable]

How TROS Failed Rey

These are just my opinions and from my personal perspective, if these things worked for you in the movie then cool, but this is why it was never going to work for me.

A Feminine Power Fantasy

Growing up in the 90s there wasn't a ton of media that had female lead characters. I grew up with strong female characters but they were often relegated to being the token girl of the group (see the Smurfette principle), the story was never centered around them and we never got to experience things from their point of view or really get to know their story. It felt like I was being asked to relate to male characters but boys were never asked or expected to relate to female characters.

Just as young boys see themselves as Luke, leading the adventure I also wanted to see myself as the main character. I wanted to have my own adventures.

When I first saw TFA, I went in knowing nothing about the movie. I had seen the OT and the Prequels as a kid and I had thought they were ok but I wasn't a huge Star Wars fan and in hindsight I really think this was due to the lack of female representation, Leia and Padme are great but I never really felt like I really got to know them as people. Not to mention that these characters are 2 women out of a cast that's predominantly male, it just seemed like the message LF was sending was that Star Wars is for boys, yeah girls can watch it if they want to but this isn't a series that is meant for you. So as you could guess I wasn't really expecting much from these new Star Wars movies, but I was pleasantly surprised.

I fell in love with Rey's character during those first 3 minutes of her introduction. During this brilliant example of “show don't tell,” story telling they were really able to convey so much about Rey's character and personality, I really began to care for her and felt like I understood her, as I could relate to her loneliness and isolation in my own way. And I was excited to see a story from a major fantasy/adventure franchise told from a feminine perspective. It felt like I was finally getting the representation I wanted to see.

So what happened? How did we go from Luke's line “And I will not be the Last Jedi” which is essentially him “passing the torch” to Rey, the next generation, to “One day I will earn your brother's saber?” 

As if the saber didn't already choose her in the Force Awakens? Why did they decide that all of a sudden Rey was unworthy? Didn't Yoda say “that library held nothing that the girl Rey didn't already posses?” which yes was a clever way of saying that Rey already took the jedi texts with her but was also implying that she already had everything she needed within herself to be a jedi (courage, humility, compassion etc...). Why did they take a step backwards in the last movie in the franchise? Insisting that Rey needed to train, that she suddenly wasn't good enough?

I can't say for sure what happened to lead up to this point. Was it just that the creative team gave in to the pressuring of a loud minority of alt-right youtubers and bots. Were they relying on Reddit and Twitter for public opinion rather than doing actual marketing research?  While I think that this was definitely a big factor I think there was just a general misunderstanding of the characters on Terrio's and JJ's part to begin with.

What Does Rey Want/Need?

To know where they went wrong, we have to ask ourselves who is Rey? All characters have a story goal, or the thing they want. By the end of the story the character will either get what they want after some struggles of course or learn that the thing that they want isn't what they need. So what does Rey want?  To understand what she wants we have to first understand her wound or past experience that caused emotional pain and interferes with the character's life. Rey's wound stems from her  abandonment. Along with the wound, comes the concept of the false lie. What is a lie that the character believes about themselves that we as the audience knows is untrue? Rey's lie is first, that her family is going to come back for her. 

The other lie she tells herself is the belief that she is worthless because she was abandoned, as she tells everyone she meets “I'm no one“ or “I'm just a scavenger.”

When Daisy Ridley was asked in an interview why Rey says she's “No One.” Ridley says it's because our relationships to people define so much of who we are and without relationships then who are we?  This makes sense considering that our parents are major influences in our development and in how we think about ourselves through much of our lives.

Rey seeks out parental figures, thinking that through them she'll figure out where she belongs. “Whoever you're waiting for on Jakku, they're never coming back. But there's someone who still could. The Belonging you seek is not behind you. It is ahead.” 

Rey initially believes that Maz is referring to Luke and when she later sets off to find him. She believe that he is going to be able to give her answers, and provide her with the belonging that she longs for, but Luke ultimately ends up disappointing her but finds comfort in her relationship with Ben.

This goes back to the idea that what Rey thinks she wants, Isn't necessarily what she needs. As JJ stated in the directors commentary of The Force Awakens, “So there was a very powerful idea that what she desperately wanted was belonging, which she’ll get, but just not how she expects.”

JJ and Terrio try to fullfill Rey's need through “found family” the family she finds with her friends and the resistance, but I think there is more to Rey's desire of wanting family that can't be satisfied by this alone. Finn, Poe, Leia are definitely a part of her journey in finding belonging but they're not the final piece to the puzzle. Otherwise she would have felt completely fulfilled by the end of The Last Jedi when she is on the Falcon surrounded by her friends.

I think part of Rey's desire for family, is also the desire to be understood, to be “seen.”  Rey even tells Finn in TROS that “People keep telling me they know me. No one does.” We hear Ben's response in the trailer “But I do...” (which was cut from the movie)

Ben has always been shown to be the person who truly “sees” Rey. He sees even the aspects of herself that she doesn't like to acknowledge. Recognizing that her holding on to her parents is affecting her negatively and that if she really wants to “find herself” she needs to let go.

Which is why when Ben says “You have no place in this story. You're nothing. But not to me.” What is really being expressed is “I don't care about where you come from and I see you for who you are.”  

This is why I believe that Ben was always suppose to be the final piece to the belonging Rey is searching for. As their narratives are intertwined. They both satisfy each others needs as characters, Rey's need to be seen for who she is and Ben's need for reconciliation and healing within his family.

Rey Palpatine

Rian Johnson said that when he began working on The Last Jedi, he wrote out all the character's names and next to them wrote what would be the hardest thing for that character to face. For Rey, this was that she needs to stand on her own two feet and define who she is for herself but JJ and Terrio seemed to have misunderstood this as Terrio states that,

“We also thought that Rey’s arc cannot be finished after Episode VIII. You can leave Episode VIII and say, “Well, now, Rey is content. She’s discovered her parents aren’t Skywalkers, or whatever, and that’s fine.” But so much of her personal story was about where she came from, what kept her on Jakku all those years and the trauma that shaped her. We see quite strongly in Episode VII that something mysterious and troubling happened to her. Although she did get some answers in Episode VIII, we didn’t feel that that story was over. We felt that there were still more questions in Rey’s head about where she came from and where she was going. So, that was the other big idea that we had to address in this film. Rian’s answer to, “What’s the worst news that Rey could receive?” was that she comes from junk traders, and that’s true. She does come from junk traders; we didn’t contradict that.”

Rey's conflict wasn't that she came from junk traders. Rey didn't care about “legacy.” Her conflict stemmed from her abandonment. Rey thinks she's “a nobody” not because of her parent's occupation or lineage but because she feels that she must be worthless because why else would her parents give her up? Rey learning that her parents sold her off for drinking money, that they didn't want her, was already a difficult and traumatic truth to overcome. Star Wars is a coming of age story, in the OT Luke grows from being a boy longing for adventure to discovering what it truly means to be a Jedi (following your principles and having a compassionate heart). Rey's journey is about letting go of childhood trauma and discovering her own independence.

It's also strange seeing as JJ had previously stated during The Force Awakens press tour that “I really feel that the assumption that any character needs to have inherited a certain number of midi-chlorians or needs to be part of a bloodline. It's not that I don't believe that as part of the canon, I'm just saying that at 11 years old that wasn't where my heart was. And so I respect and adhere to the canon but I also say that the Force has always seemed to me to be more inclusive and stronger than that.”

And there was still conflict for her to overcome. The one person who she felt truly understood her is now the supreme leader of the first order, will the resistance discover their connection? Will they see her as a traitor? All of this had the potential for great external and internal character conflict, but for some reason they didn't see this as conflict enough to sustain a whole movie?

Instead they gave Luke's character arc in the OT of having a dark side relative to Rey. “Discovering that you actually descended from your adoptive family’s greatest enemy, the same enemy who corrupted Anakin Skywalker and is responsible for the destruction of the Skywalker family in the first place, felt most devastating to us.” This doesn't make any sense to me as it feel like they just gave Rey Luke's internal conflict of being afraid of his dark side, I don't think this was ever a problem for Rey. In fact, in The Last Jedi  she leapt into the dark side cave to face her darkness (her abandonment). Luke even says “You went straight to the dark and you didn't even try to stop yourself.” 

The dark side cave in The Last Jedi was symbolic of Rey coming to terms with her darkness (the parts of herself she wants to hide).  It relates back to Jungian psychology (which much of Star Wars is based on) that people can only become whole through understanding both the light and shadow aspects of their personality. So it doesn't make sense for Rey to be afraid of who she is in the final movie when she just finished a journey where she learned to accept who she was?

Rey Skywalker

Terrio says that the decision to have Rey take on the name “Skywalker” was a way to show that “you can choose your ancestry.” Which is not true and also a strange thing to say considering the trilogy started with this:

But even if this was just awkward phrasing and what Terrio meant to say was that she considers the Skywalkers her family. Does this make sense considering that she didn't have a great relationship with Luke to begin with?

 I've seen it argued that she took the name as a way of honoring Leia but Leia never took the name or considered herself a Skywalker. Also this is another step backwards for Rey's character as The Last Jedi was trying to assert that Rey does not need to keep looking for parental figures to define herself.

So why  must she be a Palpatine, a Skywalker and “all the jedi” anyways? I think this was done for two reasons, the first was because by killing Ben they were going to kill the last of the Skywalker family and they wanted to keep the name tied to the franchise, in case they need the characters for future projects down the line, so they just pushed it onto Rey. The second reason is that I think they were trying to appease the misogynists' who spent the last 4 years calling Rey a “Mary Sue” so they explained her power away through powerful male lineage. It just feels so weird to me, like the creators are saying that we should like Rey not because of who she is as a character but because of who she is in relation to all these other characters we know you like (Luke, Leia, all the jedi that use her as a vessel etc...)

Daisy Ridley has even expressed her frustration with the Rey's lineage debate multiple times, “I love that Rey is such a great character, they’re like: ‘No, no, she has to be… she has to be-’She’s her own person! Let her be her guys, let her live.

Yet even at the end of the final film poor Rey can't seem to catch a break as she's once again asked for her last name. She once again has to justify herself for just existing. Why are surnames suddenly so important in Star Wars now anyways? Shouldn't the correct answer be “just Rey,” now that she's come to accept who she is and where she's come from and shouldn't that be good enough? What happened to the message of anyone can be a hero? That you don't have to come from or align yourself with a powerful family legacy. That we all have the power to make a difference?

TROS seems to be constantly asking Rey to prove herself. And weirdly enough it reminds me in a strange meta way of my own experience being a woman in the fandom and being constantly asked to prove that I'm a “True fan” (whatever the f@#% that means...) to prove that I'm worthy of consuming and participating in this content that male fans feel belongs solely to them.

In Conclusion

So what did our heroine gain in the end? Did she find family and belonging? No. So what does she have in the end? A yellow lightsaber (for merchandising purposes) and a surname of a dead family?  I guess she finally has an answer to give all the nosey nellies, obsessed with ones pedigree that have suddenly popped up all over the galaxy.

It's not a satisfying ending for her, as she's basically right back where she started. Alone, in a desolate desert, once again staring face to face at an old woman (an old woman which at the start of the Force Awakens symbolized her fear of growing old and wasting away her life on Jakku).

Terrio states that  this is not meant to indicate that Rey plans to stay here, “The very last thing Rey would do after all that is to go and live alone in a desert.”  but when that is the last shot you chose to end the movie on then what is the audience suppose to think? The bigger issue however, is that Rey's ending holds no significance to her or her journey. Terrio says that “In our thinking, Rey goes back to Tatooine as a pilgrimage in honor of her two Skywalker masters. Leia’s childhood home, Alderaan, no longer exists, but Luke’s childhood home, Tatooine, does. Rey brings the sabers there to honor the Skywalker twins by laying them to rest — together, finally — where it all began.” Tatooine, the Lars homestead and the twin suns, don't mean anything to Rey.  You know who did mean something to Rey? Who was the one person who understood her, who she had an intimate relationship with, who she explicitly states she wanted to be with? Ben. But he's gone too. But clearly a light saber and surname are more important. Again this all comes from a lack of caring for what Rey wants.

I just wish that the Sequel Trilogy had stayed Rey's trilogy, that she got to be a heroine in her own right not because she was a skywalker, or a palpatine or from some other powerful family. I will always love Rey but I will always hate what they did to her and I'm tired of people invalidating my feelings and telling me that it was a good ending or that it was empowering. I just want heroines to be taken as seriously and to have all the same privileges as male heroes. Let them stand on their own without connecting them back to every male hero in the franchise, let them be their own character, and finally just let them be human, let them fall in love and have relationships if they want to. Male heroes are never considered to be less of a hero for having a love interest, so why are female heroes? Basically what I got out of the Rise of Skywalker, was that it was created by a couple of guys that loved Luke and the OT and could care less about Rey and that's truly heart breaking.

[fulltimemoaner]

Zhongli is prosecuted for giving his Gnosis to the Tsaritsa, leaving him and Childe no choice than to flee to Snezhnaya.

Basically, some thieves cut Zhongli’s hair and Childe slaughters them because he really liked his hair.

Childe’s warm hand had felt comforting on his waist, even if he was hidden in a cloak under the warm sun of Liyue, being sneaked out of his homeland like the fugitive that he had become, like the land below him had forgotten the gentle rumbling of his energy and the security of his spears. He had fought back the urge to cry, thousands of years of protecting his safe harbour pointing their treacherous fingers at him. Yet, unlike Azhdaha, there was no bitterness, no disgust towards his beloved humans that had so willingly shunned him after news of his contract with the Tsaritsa had surfaced. In fact, the adoring citizens of Liyue had issued a warrant for him, for the Archon’s head that had wished to sign with the Fatui and sell out their safety.

Zhongli did not wish for the dominion of his beliefs, nor for acceptance, because mortal life was too brief and brittle to understand the gamble of him keeping his Gnosis when he could feel the claws of erosion leeching into his sanity. To their eyes, he had been their loving and protective God, who couldn’t be wrong, who would continue to reign for the millennia to come. The rusty floorboards had creaked underneath his feet, and he had caught the last traces of his homeland’s sun before he had been ushered to the basement of the ship for the first few hours, until they had been a safe distance from Liyue.

The adepti had weeped for this outcome, yet he had begged them not to rain down their vengeance on the mortals, to be gentle and understanding. He had entrusted them with the continuous protection of their harbour.

And the next air he breathed was that of Snezhnaya, the first light he saw was cold and fragile. He had emerged from his murky cabin in the early morning and had approached the railing that separated them from the freezing ocean. The rippling wind whipped back the hood of the heavy coat Ajax had provided him with, and now his hair waved in the wind, his eyes staring emptily into the distance as his skin itched from the cold. The Tsaritsa had accepted him as a fugitive asking for protection, and now, as his hands gripped the railing, he realised he hadn’t been that far away from home since the Archon War.

He looked up, feeling the soft tears that clung to his eyelashes freezing over, the sun obscured by a thick layer of clouds. How he missed the gentle breeze already.

The same went for Snezhnaya itself, it was cold enough to make his breath catch in his throat and his lungs ache. Ajax had taken his scarf off and wrapped it around his neck at the sound of his laboured breathing, then adjusted it to make sure it was covering his mouth and nose. Zhongli’s eyes had been curious as to why the ginger had been so gentle the past couple days, even the snark and edge having left his voice. Perhaps he felt for him. At least the gaze of the locals was gentle and welcoming, for the most part, offering him local delicacies and flowers before he and Childe could even reach his home. The Harbinger had been welcomed back like a hero, with huge bouquets and a massive meal prepared by his family.

Zhongli had been catatonic, at best, but at least, he had found some comfort in talking to the children, who were, as always, excited and easily impressed by his stories of dragons and extinct creatures.

He had stayed indoors for the first couple of days, too reluctant to go exploring on these foreign lands, but eventually, his confidence started building up again, so he picked up the small bag of money that Childe left for him every morning. -Zhongli had given his allowance of the two previous days to the little kids, since he hadn’t gone outside and concepts such as saving were nonexistent in his brain-

The attire, that he was getting used to. He wasn’t a huge fan of wearing boots, but he could say their smooth leather sealed him from the snow pretty well, and that the heavy coat felt strangely comforting around his shoulders. More than once, he had overheard people calling him the golden devil, which he considered to be quite endearing in its own, clueless way.

He stepped by a merchant’s booth with imported stones, including what they described as Liyuen Cor Lapis and Noctilucous Jades. He leaned in a bit closer for observation, and the merchant seemed to shift uncomfortably, which pretty much told Zhongli that these were, in fact, fake. He straightened up again, unable to resist teasing the merchant. “Are these imported straight from the chasm?”

The shopkeeper’s eyes seemed to go wide, and he quickly tried to dodge the question. Thankfully, for him, a whistle tore through their ears and made the young foreigner turn, his eyes narrowed.

“Lovely accessory you have there, good sir.” A young man smiled, accompanied by three others. “Looks like the real thing too.” The Snezhnayan man caressed the piece of jewellery that held Zhongli’s hair into a neat ponytail in a leery way. The ex archon didn’t move, only observed with caution, his piercing gaze saying more than words ever could. “Say, you aren’t, by any chance, the Tsaritsa’s guest from Liyue harbour?”

The other men chuckled and Zhongli glanced at the merchant, who started packing up his items hurriedly, seemingly intimidated by the gang. “Why, yes, I am.” He said neutrally, his voice a notch lower than friendly.

“Huh, you have nerve, saying that so openly.” The Snezhnayan’s fist twisted around the half-golden ponytail and pulled Zhongli’s head back. “You owe us, since we so willingly welcomed you here.” The stranger smirked, reaching behind his back for a folded knife. “I’m sure we could sell Morax’s hair for quite a fortune.” Another yank to the head and Zhongli blinked apathetically. “Aren’t you fighting back?”

“I have no interest in fighting mortals.” Zhongli shrugged. “My hair is my hair. Three years to grow them back is like the blink of an eye to me.”

The man’s eyes flickered with fury at the stranger, and he brought that dagger into his coal hair, severing the strands roughly. Zhongli’s eyes stayed unmoving, hostile, hateful, in a way. The lump of hair fell into the snow unceremoniously, and one of the others scurried to grab it.

“Yo,”

Zhongli’s eyes flickered from the thief to the source of the familiar voice. Relief washed over him at the sight of ginger hair and ocean blue eyes, that slender figure hugged in his winter attire that Zhongli rarely saw him in. A primal sense of grounding gripped him, almost like the essence of his home, which he had eternally bound to Childe’s smiling face. Unorthodox, he knew, but he was like an oasis of familiarity that the weather hadn’t manage to freeze over yet.

“Where is your Snezhnayan upbringing, picking on the Tsaritsa’s guests?” Ajax sighed, walking leisurely towards Zhongli. “I have eyes and ears where my hands can’t reach, and right now, mr. Zhongli is under my supervision.” His hand found its familiar spot on the God’s waist, his eyes scanning for any traces of harm’s way on him. His hand reached the back of his head before his eyes did, and they narrowed dangerously. “Ah, is that what you were going for? It’s a shame.” Zhongli felt uncertainty creep up his spine at the shift in the Harbinger’s tone, still wishing for no harm towards the mortals.

“Ajax,”

“It’s a shame,” Childe continued, cracking his neck to the left, then to the right with a relieved smile. “Because I happened to love his hair, and I don’t take kindly to things being taken away from me.”

“Ajax, let’s go home.” Zhongli grabbed his wrist, the whole group of thieves frozen in fear at the sight of the Fatui.

“No, no. We can’t do that. When someone kisses you, they expect a kiss back, no?” Ajax stepped forward and stretched his arm out, his hydro dagger appearing into his hand. “You might not want to shift the tides here, mr. Zhongli, but these rascals are my own.”

“Run!” The leader of the thieves screamed, but they didn’t stand a chance. Childe threw the dagger first, hitting the middle one between his shoulder blades. Blood gushed out in waves and Ajax laughed joyfully, running to the gurgling body to pull his weapon out, then join it into a larger pole-arm. A jump and a couple of spins and heads went flying, legs were severed, and the snow was painted an abysmal red. Childe leaned his head back, feeling the wind swipe his hair back and freeze his smile in place. The weapons vaporised in his hands, and he slowly lowered his gaze to Zhongli, stood meekly by the scene of the slaughter. Childe wrestled the hair out of the dead man’s grip, for the sake of retreating the luxurious clip that his lover favoured since he first met him. “Measly thieves. Someone has to be the sacrificial lamb, the subject to teach the others a lesson,”

Zhongli’s eyes eased shut when Ajax closed in on his space, leaning close to his face and pushing the small accessory into his gloved hand. “I love you.” Ajax whispered, pressing a gentle kiss into the corner of Zhongli’s brow. “And I intend to keep you safe here.”

“They wouldn’t kill me, Ajax.” Zhongli sighed deeply, leaning into Childe’s neck. “They wouldn’t be able to.”

“No one will dare to try anymore.” The Harbinger’s hand nestled to the small of the ex archon’s back, pulling him close to his body. He started to caress the back of his head with his free hand, trying to feel the roughly cut strands through the fabric of his gloves. “I’m sorry they touched you.”

“You’re more sad about that than I am.” Zhongli smiled gently and pulled the Harbinger’s head down to press their foreheads together. “It will grow back in no time.”

“I’m a mortal like they are.” Ajax whispered sadly, his eyes easing shut. Zhongli pressed a fleeting kiss to his lips in response, trying to ease the pain in his lover’s voice.

“And I’m eroding, so let’s try to outlive each other.” Zhongli chuckled, making Childe squeeze him close, a neediness evident in his touch. “I want to live like mortals do, with you, Ajax. That’s why I’m here.”

“Please, don’t say such things to me.” The Harbinger breathed deeply, trying to choke down a few stray tears. “I promise I will make your stay worthwhile.”

“I know.” Zhongli kissed his jaw quickly. “You can start by taking me somewhere, I’m freezing.”

“Right.” Childe laughed, reaching out to grasp the ex archon’s hand and pull him away from the bloodied grounds. “I’m taking you for lunch. I will tell some underlings to clean up the mess.”

“You could had been more clean about it.”