#The Handshake ™️

[freshbeeth]

lives were destroyed

[lizard-lipssss]

Heyo long time no post

Take my sad goth Tremere as compensation

[littlecourse]

i think people need to stop talking about sexual abuse (including assault in this) differently than other forms of abuse. imagine acting like abuse made people “dirty” or ruined them forever and then trying to turn around and go “oh but you shouldn’t feel ashamed of what happened to you” like you aren’t adding to the stigma yourself

sexual abuse is just a bad thing that happens to some people and it doesn’t mean anything about their “purity”

sexual abuse is a bad thing that happens to some people and it just hurts and sometimes you have to live with the damage until you die but that doesn’t make you ruined at all.

you still deserve to (and can!) live a happy, satisfying life as someone who has scars instead of wounds

[charliemwrites]

Unhinged obsessive Johnny Thoughts™️? Unhinged obsessive Johnny Thoughts™️.

Johnny didn’t mean to. He swears he didn’t mean to, please understand.

You’re his favorite server at his favorite bar. He finds every excuse he can to drag one or all of his team there. Yes he likes their company, of course. Likes spending time with them, laughing and joking and building bonds outside of life or death situations. But you are the highlight of those nights.

You smile so sweetly, a little cheeky twist whenever he gets all of the 141 there together. You know all their names - or their callsigns at least. Call Price “captain” with a giggle whenever he groans at you to stop calling him that.

Johnny adores you. Sometimes when he’s alone at the table - the others off smoking or playing pool - you’ll stop by. You don’t have to, but you do, chatting until one of the other servers teases to stop flirting and help bus.

You always blush when they shout that, but never deny it. Leave him with one last warm smile and a promise to top up his drink for listening to you ramble. As if he couldn’t live with your voice in his ears all the time.

You tell him about your masters program. Complain about shitty customers. Admit you broke up with your last boyfriend for calling your hobbies a “silly waste of time.” The movies you’ve seen or watch for nostalgia. He knows when your playlist is on at the bar because you spend your entire shift bouncing and mouthing along whenever you’re not handling a customer.

It’s a slow infection. A creeping, insidious thing that seeps into his blood and corrupts him from the inside out. This awful, twisting devotion for you.

He knows to be careful, loathe to be one of those men you avoid like the plague, trading with other servers to handle. He doesn’t want to make you uncomfortable. He’s happy with the flirting and the little kindnesses, happy that you always light up when you see him. That you breathe a quiet “thank you” and squeeze his arm the one time he steps in one a handshake customer on your behalf.

It’s enough. He reminds himself that it’s enough. He doesn’t deserve more than you’re willing to give. He can’t give you the life you deserve yet.

But then one day things go wrong. So, so wrong.

There’s been a rowdy group of men that have been harassing the younger servers all night. You stepped in, older and more experienced, practiced at not giving them the reactions they want. It’s another of the things Johnny loves about you. You don’t need a mask like Ghost to hide your face.

One them especially tries antagonize you, even manages to earn a sharp word when he says something crass. Johnny tenses when the guy (buddies following suit) starts getting loud, aggressive. Towering over you when he knocks over his barstool, trying to intimidate.

Johnny shoves the guy away from you before it can get much farther. Relief washes over you as the owner, a big burly man, finally makes an appearance and kicks the lot of them out.

“A whiskey on the house for Soap,” you ask the bartender, hand pressed to your chest. “My knight in a cotton sweater.”

He smiles for your sake, mind buzzing to see you so shaken up.

“Alright, lass?”

“Yeah, just spooked me is all,” you sigh, a hand to your cheek now. “Think I’m gonna step out for some air. Thank you again, John.”

He lets you go, even though every molecule in his body urges him to bundle you up under his arm, safe and sound. Take you somewhere quiet to smooth your feathers.

Something doesn’t feel right.

He manages to wait exactly one minute and seventeen seconds before he tells a blasted Gaz that he’s going to the bathroom. When he steps out the back door, you’re being cornered by the man, two of his friends hanging back telling him to “leave it alone” but not actually doing a fucking thing to stop him.

So Johnny does. Honestly, he blacks out for a second. The next thing he knows, he’s cradling you in his arms, his knuckles stinging and bloody. The men are nowhere to be found but there’s a pool of blood in the alleyway. You’re unconscious, fainted sometime in the scuffle - or maybe hit your head.

Johnny isn’t himself. He’s not thinking. He’s used to keeping his cool with guns pressed to his head, but this is different. This is you.

He doesn’t mean to. He really doesn’t but it’s the best he can come up with when he just got a firsthand look at how dangerous the world is for you when he’s not around.

Please understand. He has to keep you safe.

[breezyzephyr]

i'm here to spread Team Handshake propaganda, have you considered its potential with the timeless Villain Handshake™️trope

[calliesmemes]

WHY ARE WE NOT INTERACTING YET?

A COMPREHENSIVE SYMBOL ASKBOX PROMPT LIST OF REASONS FOR WHY OUR BLOGS MIGHT BE STUCK IN INTERACTION LIMBO. ( INSP. )

Send both the EMOJI and the TEXT.

If you cannot see the emoji, send the [ BRACKETED TEXT ].

❓ [ question mark ]﹕ I am a newcomer to tumblr’s roleplay scene, and I do not know how to get started.

🥺 [ pleading ]﹕ I am very shy in general.

🧵 [ threads ]﹕ I have too many threads right now, but I do want to interact in the future.

💼 [ briefcase ]﹕I am busy with life, but I do want to interact sometime in the future.

💕 [ two hearts ]﹕ I ship our muses romantically, but it feels awkward to ask you about shipping.

➕ [ plus ]﹕ You already interact with a lot of duplicates of my muse or faceclaim, and I am uncertain whether you would feel comfortable with adding another.

🛏️ [ bed ]﹕ We have interacted before, but I am currently fixated on another roleplay community.

🍽️ [ plate ]﹕ You seem to have a lot of interactions on your plate already, and I don’t want to stress you out further.

✏️ [ pencil ]﹕ I’m worried about whether my writing style will be able to hold up against scrutiny in comparison to yours.

🪢 [ knot ]﹕ It takes me a while to work up the courage for approaching a new mutual out of character.

😬 [ grimace ]﹕ We have interacted before, but I worry that I will bother you if I reach out to plot / talk out of character.

🧠 [ brain ]﹕ I’m struggling to think of ideas for interactions, or my ideas are vague and consist only of specific Vibes™️

🤝 [ handshake ]﹕ My muse is an original character with familial ties to your canon character, and I don’t know how to approach you to start plotting.

🎀 [ bowtie ]﹕ I headcanon my original character as being close friends with your canon character, and I don’t know how to approach you to start plotting.

🍿 [ popcorn ]﹕ Don’t mind me; I’m just here to lurk!

✉️ [ envelope ]﹕ First meeting threads aren’t my forte.

🤷🏻‍♀️ [ shrug ]﹕ You haven’t reblogged a lot of askbox prompts yet, and I interact primarily by using askbox prompt responses as starters for interactions.

🧍🏻 [ standing ]﹕ I interact primarily through starter calls, and you haven’t posted a starter call yet.

🎲 [ dice ]﹕ We already interact on other blogs, but I don’t have any ideas for interactions with this one yet.

🧚🏻‍♂️ [ fairy ]﹕ I keep meaning to approach you out of character, but I forgot ��� oops :/

👑 [ crown ]﹕ We’ve already interacted before, but I want even more threads!

🪡 [ needle ]﹕ I want to interact with you because I enjoy your writing; however, your post formatting is difficult to read.

[achillesuwu]

Feral over the potential of magic users’ etiquette being used once more.

Like, you remember that scene where Merlin raise his hand hand Mordred back down ? Well what if it’s actually as threatening as putting a hand on your sword to raise your hand to give an handshake ? What if they don’t lend a hand to someone who fall ? And if they does shakes hands it’s with the left one.

What if when a magic user bows they lock their eyes with the lord/lady/priest/priestess/diety/… in question as a sign of peace ?

What if they actually use pointy hat but they don’t remove it to salute someone ? What if it’s to actually allow people to see they golden eyes better ?

So many little things they do when meeting strangers that could be interpreted as bitch moves.

This could go in so many au.

Like post returns or golden age where Arthur just doesn’t know how to handle magical politics.

Different meetings where merthur think the other is uncivilized ™️ like Arthur who fell and Merlin doesn’t help him while looking at him with an unwavering gaze. Or Merlin who fell but slap Arthur’s helping hand. Merlin who salutes Arthur by very very slowly raising his hand, putting it in front of his hat to bring it slightly down and raising his chin while looking at him in the eyes which is very polite to him contrarily to that uncivilized man who tried to grab his arms (Arthur has never felt more disrespected in his ENTIRE existence)

Merlin being a court mage and being actually very polite and friendly towards some dude but Arthur, Gwen & the knights think he hates his gut and thus they are very suspicious.

[adventure-showdown]

What is your favourite Doctor Who story?

TOURNAMENT MASTERPOST

synopses and propaganda under the cut

Scherzo

Synopsis

Once upon a time...

There were two friends, and together they travelled the cosmos. They thwarted tyrants and defeated monsters, they righted wrongs wherever they went. They explored the distant future and the distant past, new worlds and galaxies, places beyond imagining.

But every good story has to come to an end.

With no times or places left to explore, all the two friends have now are each other. But maybe that's one voyage too many. Maybe they'll discover things they'd rather have left undisturbed... hidden away in the suffocating, unfeeling, deafening brightness.

Once upon a time. Far, far away.

Propaganda

It’s a great and fucked up dissection of the Doctor and Charley’s relationship, with a healthy dose of body horror (anonymous)

you will never look at the handshake emoji the same way again (october)

Really creative concept. Puts 8 and Charley into a situation where they have to confront their relationship and what they mean to each other while dealing with an incredibly engaging creature. I can't name an audio that suits the medium better and Ive been consuming Big Finish at an alarming rate. Also noises™️ (anonymous)

Midnight

Synopsis

The Tenth Doctor and Donna Noble go to the leisure planet of Midnight for a simple, relaxing holiday. However, life with the Doctor can never be that simple, and things go horribly wrong for the Doctor when he decides to go off on a bus trip to see the Sapphire Waterfall, starting with the bus shutting down. When a mysterious entity infiltrates the shuttle bus, no one is to be trusted. Not even the Doctor himself...

Propaganda

Midnight is amazing. So thrilling. The monster was human fear and it cost the life of two innocent women. (plus two men on accident, well, more or less) And we never know what the midnight entity was. Perfect. My absolute favourite episode. The best thing is that it tricks you into liking the passengers before it slowly, slowly turns that into horror of what they're capable of. Chills every time. (Plus it's totally what inspired among us if you ask me) (anonymous)

[leanteam43]

"Reid's Dating The K9 Handler?"

(Dating Spencer as a K9 Handler)

summary : falling for Dr.Reid as a K9 Handler for the FBI

coloring : Morgan | Reid | Prentiss | Y/N | Garcia

pronouns : they/them | GN!reader!

warnings : Mentions of Spencer being taken hostage, I think that's all? If there's any more I'll update this !!

a/n's : HELP ME ITS POURING OUT - 🌿 | idk D:- 🎸 | EAT LOTS OF HEART SHAPED COOKIES - 🐇

Morgan told him not too

"Reid you can't date the K9 handler" "Why not??" "They'll make you their bitch" "?? What??"

Y'all met at an FBI K9 Demonstration,

the BAU was there to show support (strauss deffo did NOT force them /s)

Reid caught one glance at you and was HOOOOKED

Love at first sight? No this man was whipped at first sight

Morgan and Emily caught on immediately

The teasing was BRUTALLLL

"Pretty boy's got a cruuuushhh~"

After the demonstration was over, Emily called you over to introduce you too

"Y/N, have you met my colleague, DR. Spencer Reid?"

Wing (Wo)men Morgan and Prentiss™️

One handshake and a smile and suddenly Mr. Chatter Box couldn't form a proper sentence

"You two actually have a lot in common! Joining the FBI so young and all."

Spencer tried impressing you by knowing facts about dogs but you knew way more, which ended up impressing him

Teaching him to say 'Belgian Malinois' properly.

"Mal-in-waa" "? Mal-inois?" "Nono-"

Eventually you two do end up in a relationship, after a lot of dates being cancelled (having no love life should really be in the job description)

Being polar opposites because you passed the FBI's physical test with flying colors and he had to get a free pass

Hotch letting you and your K9 come on certain cases

"Y/N's here??" "They work here, genius."

Break-room dates

"I'm surprised nobodies come in yet!" "I locked the doors."

Him trying, and struggling, to handle your K9 when you go on vacation.

"Y/N I've done everything you wrote and it's still bouncing off the walls." "IT??"

Spencer being the proudest bf EVERRR™️

Penelope thinking you two are the cutest couple in the building

"When are you two getting married?" *Cue both of you choking on your drink*

One of the many times spencer gets taken hostage TRUST you and your K9 are on the crime scene within the next hour

Park !! Dates !!

"Do you wanna try throwing the ball for (K9 Name)?" "Uhmm.."

Holding hands while walking your K9 :C

Spencer is lowkey scared of your K9 but in the "I know you could eat me if you wanted too, but I trust you won't" type of way

In conclusion,

i luv spencer reid spencer reid brainrot luv that silly little nerdy white man <3

[visionsofyouandme]

I. that original lifeline

𝚜𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜: A celebration, a visit, the marketplace- it's all your beginning of something new.

𝚠/𝚌: 5.6k

𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜/𝚝𝚊𝚐𝚜: Slow burn. Sexual tension. Food & alcohol consumption. Love at first sight-type meeting. Exposition. Marcus is That Guy™️. Terrible use of ancient Latin (and Swahili? bear with me). Symbolic dreams.

𝙰/𝙽: Well, well, well... Who's really surprised here? Marcus has a chokehold on me, like he does on most people. Starting a series is always daunting, and I'm kind of writing it with a vague outline of what will happen. Probably going to open up asks to get some inspiration and advice! Anyway, I hope you enjoy this lil series that I've been dying to share.

Read here on AO3!

Walking through the courtyard of the massive celebration, Marcus felt out of place. 

Having just come back from a recent campaign, he always had a hard time adjusting to life off the battlefront. That was where he belonged- among men, sword in hand, blood on his skin, rage coursing through his veins. To be here, welcomed with smiles instead of grimaces, drinks flowing instead of blood, and the scent of incense instead of death in the air was all… strange. Familiar yet foreign. 

Dreams had plagued him for nights on the battlefield, filled with cries of the grieving and moans of agony. Fires burning, the stench of death seemed to be all around him. No matter how far he wandered, he would be stuck in a never ending field of death. If it was what Pluto had condemned him in sleep, he feared what awaited him in the afterlife. 

But, there had been a shift in his dreams. Instead of wandering aimlessly among the dead, he followed a figure- slim, ethereal, and leading him to peace. He never saw her face, but he knew she held the key to a life finally calm and filled with tranquility. But every time he reached out for her, and she began to turn, he awoke with a racing heart and sweat collecting on his brow.

Now, he saw friends- really, acquaintances- and greeted them with smiles, handshakes, nods of acknowledgement as he passed. They showered him with jovial tones, congratulations of a campaign well-won. If only they knew the looks of terror the opposition had on their faces as Marcus slayed them on the battlefield, surrounded by strong and capable men. Some of the opposition weren’t even men- some of them were young boys with weak holds on swords. Boys who should have been growing up, and not fighting the rich man’s battles. 

But, Marcus could not think of that now. He was here to celebrate not himself, but another acquaintance who had just accelerated to a seat in the Senate. Marcus was no politician, but he was invited as one of the highest ranking generals in Rome. 

All he could see were the boys’ eyes, wide as their life seeped from their bodies, crimson all around them. A goblet of wine was thrust into his hands, and he saw himself in the deep red liquid, and the poor boys’ corpses who littered the ground at his feet. 

A voice called to him, and he lifted his head with a forced smile as he walked over to the group of men in luxurious and colorful togas. They welcomed him, some patting him on the back, with more compliments thrown his way. He would just nod and wave his hand. Simple, dismissive. 

“And Caecilius, here, he is just recently wed! And to a lovely little thing, too.” one of them said, patting an older, shorter, sparsely-silver haired man on the shoulder. He looked so frail that Marcus could have breathed too harshly and knocked him over. But, the man nodded, smiling with joy.

“She truly is a vision. Would make even Venus jealous with her beauty.” Caecilius said, and raised an arm in greeting as his eyes moved over Marcus’ shoulder. When he turned, he was completely taken aback. 

Surely this was not Caecilius’ new bride?

You walked- no, floated- with such grace that Marcus could not tear his gaze away. You looked young. Far too young to be married to an old and decrepit man such as the Roman council member. But, you smiled, moving past Marcus to come to Caecilius’ side, taking his arm. 

“How are you, my dove? Hopefully not partaking in too much drink?” Caecilius laughed, and you produced a fresh goblet of wine in your hand. 

“As fine as this night is. And of course not, I would not make a fool of myself in such a public place.” you said, and Marcus could only watch in awe… and jealousy. You were an excellent vision of beauty- hair done in the latest fashionable style, neck and wrists adorned in gold, even threaded through your hair. The curve of your lips, the angle of your eyes, the tone of your skin all drew him in like a ship sailing towards its beacon. Like a sailor chases the stars at night, like a poet upholds its muse. 

“... General Acacius has just returned, himself. And to come back to such a celebration!” one of the men said, his name jarring him back to reality. He didn’t realize he had been staring, but saw you looking expectantly back at him. He cleared his throat, nodded and took a sip of wine. 

“Yes. Another successful win for Rome and her people!” Caecilius said, raising his goblet. It was then that Marcus noticed he was swaying on his feet, really only standing upright because of your hold on him. 

“Your city and people thank you, General Acacius.” you said for the first time, directed at him. And your voice? Gods, your voice could rival the sweetest chorus of the city, and the way you said his name had him weak in the knees. He would have fallen to them and bent to your every whim had your… Had your husband not been standing next to you.

The jarring fact that you were taken ripped through him like a knife to a piece of cloth. You were already spoken for, and this hurt him immensely. 

While you held his gaze for a moment, you then said something to Caecilius that he could not hear and pulled away, walking through the crowd. His eyes followed you, though the conversation the men had continued on in rancorous laughter. He finally swiveled, his brown eyes casting back to the men before him, but his mind reaching for you. Reaching as if to call you back into his sights so he could admire your beauty again. 

It was later in the evening when the sun had set that he had found you again. You stood on the balcony of the second story, alone, leaning against the bannister as your face turned towards the sun. It cast you in a beautiful golden glow, and he felt like he was imposing upon a piece of living art. 

But, selfishly, he wanted to hear your voice again. To hold your gaze, your attention. 

Before he could breathe a word, you turned your head to him, and smiled.

“General Acacius. We meet yet again.” you said, and he walked towards the bannister to stand next to you, offering a soft smile.

“And so we do. Where is your spouse?” he questioned, and the smile faded on your face, turning to face the sun again. Your grimace was disguised as a squint to look towards the orange and pink skies, and he wished for nothing more than to see your smile again. 

“I am sure he is wining and dining with the finest of Rome. I am surprised you are not joining him.” you said, a tightness to your tone that he did not like. 

“I would much rather take a step back, look out rather than in. The sunset is beautiful, dare I say the best part of the day, save the dawn that beckons a new beginning.” Marcus said, and stood closer to you, his body facing the rays of sun that were beginning to fade under the horizon. He glanced at you in his periphery, and you continued to look out. He continued to stand, content with the sound of the party continuing behind you both as the sun made its way steadily down.

“Are you really as fearsome as they say?” You finally said, and he looked at you to see you were looking down now, fiddling with your gold cuffs. He watched you with a gentle expression. Your hands, so soft and lithe, he knew they had never held a day’s worth of work in their life. Innocent, untouched. 

Oh, how it ached to know you were already spoken for. 

“What do you think?” he said, and your gaze moved to meet his own. You studied him, tilting your head to the side as your eyes swept him up and down.

“I think you are just a man. Capable of good as well as bad. That is what is expected of all good leaders, yes?” You questioned, and he felt something stir within him. His deep brown eyes never strayed from yours, not even to the sunset he was praising just moments ago.

“I am whatever you make of me, My Lady.” Marcus said quietly, and you looked at him, a hint of surprise crossing your face. Your hands continued their work on your cuffs, spinning them this way and that. A nervous habit, he observed. He could only wonder why you were acting so, if you thought of him as nothing but a simple man.

“You should mind yourself, people will talk.” You say, and he frowned deeply, but knew what you insinuated. How could anyone speak of your conversation, when it was nothing but innocent? You were not entirely unchaperoned, the laughter and chatter of the party were only feet behind you. Anyone could come out and see you two, and there would be nothing to hide. 

But, Marcus wanted something to hide. He could barely contain his gaze as he looked at you, coming across as both lustful and adoring. He could only wonder which way you took it, but he felt both so deeply in his bones that he wouldn’t know what to do with himself. He could reach out and touch you now, move his arm just so to brush against yours, intertwine his little finger with yours. 

How had you bewitched him so?

“Go. Be with your kind, in celebration and laughter.” you said, nodding back to the threshold that held the party within. Marcus’ eyes never left you, though, and his feet did not move to carry him elsewhere. 

“What is your name?” he questioned, his voice more steady than he anticipated. Your gaze slowly moved up to meet his, and you breathed your name so lightly that it could have been the wind. He repeated it, feeling sweeter than honey rolling off of his tongue. 

“I would like to know how to properly address such a decoris femina (beautiful woman).” This drew a small smile on your face, and you looked away shyly with a minute shake of your head.

“You flatter me, General-”

“Marcus.” he countered, and slowly but swiftly took your hand in his, raising it to his lips. Your knuckles, tender and delicate, brushed across his lips, the small bit of his facial hair tickling your skin. “I implore you, call me Marcus.”

“But, it is improper. You are a General, the General Acacius. I should address you as such.” You said quietly, the soft rise and fall of your chest under your stola causing Marcus an internal battle between watching that or your mesmerizing eyes. He was just a man, after all- like you said.

“If I order you to call me Marcus, will you deny me?” he questioned, and you stiffened at first, then melted as he lowered your hand to rest within his on the bannister. He tilted his head forward, eyebrows raised in question. You resigned yourself to shake your head, and he felt something like pride swell in his chest.

“May I call upon you again?” he questioned, and your eyebrows knit together, eyes shifting to the doorway. You shook your head slightly, though he could still see the shuddering rise and fall of your chest.

“I do not think that is wise-”

“I will see your husband, then. And you will be there, yes?” he questioned, his tone so light and hopeful that it made his stomach twist with fear. What if you denied him? What if you refused to see him after tonight? 

Your eyes finally moved to his own, and he gave your hand the gentlest squeeze of encouragement. 

“I will be having wine and food midday tomorrow. Whether or not my husband is there, is up to chance.” you said, and he smiled a bit wider than he could help. He nodded, his eyes alight with excitement, but he countered it with a neutral expression.

“Right. I suppose I will have to call to see if he is available.” he said, and you smiled lightly, knowingly. Nodding, you pulled your hand from his grasp and clasped your hands in front of you. 

“And so you shall. I- we would be so happy to have the General as our guest. Under any given circumstances.” you said, and he chuckled, looking back at the horizon that was now dark, turning light blue and black to signal the night had come. He felt your hand on his arm, his head swiveling so fast he thought it might come off.

“I will be looking forward to your visit, Marcus.” you said quietly, like it was a secret between the two of you, your hand dropping. His eyes flitted between yours, and he smiled. Yes, it was like a secret. One he was intent on keeping close to the chest for as long as he could help it. 

Days later, you hadn’t found yourself worrying about Marcus’ coming to your home until the sun was high in the sky. Caecilius had left for a “meeting” with other senators, which you took as a sign he was going out to drink, be merry, and indulge in debauchery. You didn’t mind, so long as he was away from you and gave you a bit of peace. 

You had your servants place the table for one, knowing it would seem suspicious if you set one up for another. You were beginning to think he wasn’t coming, and sat at the table in the garden. Just as you had picked up a grape, your houseguard announced General Acacius’ presence. You stiffened, and slowly put down the fruit and rose, turning to see him approach in a red toga with gold trim. You offered a smile, and his eyes shone with the sun and a hint of something else.

“General Acacius. To what do I owe the pleasure of your coming here?” you questioned, but knew full well his reasoning. He smiled knowingly, and looked around,

“I was inquiring if your husband was here.” he said, and you shook your head,

“Regretfully, he is not. Out on senate business. However, may I entertain you for a bit? Food has just been laid out.” you said, gesturing next to you. He looked down at it thoughtfully, and then nodded. You asked for another place to be made for Marcus, and he settled into the seat across from you. Picking up the grape you had discarded, you had bit into it and pure sweetness flooded your tastebuds. Dismissing your servants, you looked to Marcus, who was already gazing at you.

“You look well, My Lady.” he said, his voice soft, and you smiled, taking another piece of fruit.

“As do you, General. I hope you enjoyed the celebration of your victories, and that you enjoyed the company of many.” you replied, and he picked up a piece of pomegranate, looking down at it. You watched him, the way his large, calloused, strong hand held the delicate fruit with such tender care. You selfishly and fleetingly thought of what those same hands would feel like wrapped around your body.

“I particularly enjoyed the company of one. That is all I remember from it.” he said, his words making your heart flutter. You smiled and took a sip of wine, eyes casting to the bountiful food place between the two of you.

“However I did not meet you before, it is a mystery. I did not know Caecilius had a new wife until your introduction.” he said, and the bitter reality settled in and you did your best to contain your disdain. You shrugged, 

“Caecilius and I share a similar background- widowed, others looking for a decent union. My father pressed it, and Caecilius was more than willing to accept.” you said, trying to state the facts but your face became hard, lips pressed together. To mask it, you took a sip of wine, but Marcus could see right through it.

“Widowed?” he questioned, and you nodded, sitting a bit straighter with a sigh.

“My former spouse was an officer of the Roman army. Septimus Juventus. Did you know him?” you questioned, and your eyes moved to Marcus, who looked deep in thought, looking over at the fountain.

“I do not think I had the pleasure of meeting him.” he said, and you noted a stiffness to his tone. You did not press, but Marcus turned his head back and grabbed a piece of bread. Even that was small in comparison to his hands. Tearing a piece off, he dipped it in the mixture of oil and herbs, taking a bite.

“He was… a soldier. Proud, assertive… thought he would be the next great leader of the Roman Army.” you mused, and shook your head. Marcus was quiet, patient, listening. His brown eyes were receptive, understanding. “He was killed in a battle overseas. They burned his body in a funeral rite, and I heard about his death via messenger boy. Next thing I know, I am to be wed to Caecilius.” you recounted.

“Did you love him?” Marcus questioned, and your gaze never strayed from him. You lifted your chin slightly, like you had encountered a bad smell, and your smile was sour.

“As much as any good wife could love their husband through an arranged marriage.” you said, tone clipped and you shook your head minutely, eyes roaming the garden and let out a breathy laugh. “Please, do carry on from my lamentations. I cannot bore my honored guest.” 

Marcus smiled weakly, and shook his head, “You could never bore me, My Lady. I wish to know about you, your past and present and future.” 

This took you by surprise. No one, especially not a man, had ever spoken to you in such a gentle and concerned way. His gaze was genuine, eyebrows knit together in a way that offered worry, but also comfort. You looked down, and busied yourself with another grape.

“I am not my past. The present is here. And my future has already been decided.” you said, with a curt nod, and Marcus shook his head.

“The future is up to the Fates. They spin the web of life and pull us back and forth. Nothing is ever set in stone.” he said, and his words offered you comfort. Maybe one day you would be free from this prison that all of the men in your life had encased you in.

“Well, then. If I may be truthful, the present is much more bearable with you in it.” you said casually, but Marcus stilled in his seat, eyes moving up and down your figure. You acted like you did not see, and picked up a piece of bread and meat. When you finally had the courage to raise your eyes, you saw him looking down at a piece of fruit and smiling gently, shaking his head.

“Do I amuse you?” you questioned, cocking an eyebrow. He took a bite, taking time to chew and to look back at the sprawling gardens of your villa. 

“Your straightforwardness is admirable. Are you this direct all the time?”

“Why? Are you going to cut out my tongue for it?”

Marcus smiled, and shook his head with a chuckle.

“No, no. I quite like it. Not many people speak so freely of themselves in Rome. Much less women.” he said, and you nodded, your shoulder offering an apathetic shrug.

“I have nothing to lose, except my life. And even that is treated as a piece to be bargained off like cattle.” you said. You really did feel you had nothing to lose. You had no family to care for, no one to love and protect and to truly provide for. Your soul was just a lost ship in the night, bobbing in the waves, listless.

Marcus gave you the slightest beacon of light. Hope and light.

But, could you trust it? Or was it leading you straight to the rocks?

“You are anything but. You are a figment of beauty, of grace. Smart as a whip, a tongue quicker than a viper.” he said, and you laughed out loud.

“You flatter me yet again, General Acacius. You best be careful, sir, or I will find your affections to be real and true.”

“Would that be such a bad thing?” he questioned, his voice quiet that only you could hear it from across the table. There was a longing in his eyes, a plea of want, and you smiled sadly.

“In a world like this, one cannot afford such luxuries such as true affection. Not if they want to maintain appearances and status.” you said with a resigned look, and Marcus frowned deeply.

“Do you care about that? Appearances and status?”

“No. Not for me, but for you.” you sighed, and took your glass in hand, swirling the liquid thoughtfully. “You are the Roman General, people love you and look up to you for guidance and strength. If they find something to have tainted your image, you may lose all of that, and more.”

“I do not think I could value those things over love.” he said quietly, and you swallowed dryly. “Valor? Glory? The thrill of a victory? They mean nothing in life when you have no one to love at the end of day’s light.” 

Was this his way of saying-? No. It couldn’t be. You were young, but not young enough to believe in such foolishness. You shook yourself internally of the spell the General was seeming to put over you.

“You speak like a poet, General.” 

“Marcus.” he finally reminded you, and you smiled lightly. “But I am not a poet. Just an honest man with intentions that are clear and true.” 

“And what would those intentions entail?”

He smiled, and chuckled deeply. “The more I see you, the clearer they will become,” he explained, and you felt that small glimmer of hope light within you. You couldn’t help the soft smile that graced your face, and nodded.

“I will be counting on that, then. Seeing where you lead with your intentions.” you said. He nodded, and raised his glass,

“To the future, and all that it holds. May the Gods treat us kindly, and the Fates weave their web in good fortune.” he said, and you nodded in agreement, raising your own glass.

“To the future.”

A few days had passed. You still held on to the conversations with Marcus close to the chest, confiding in your close friend from the African colonies, Jaheim. He was the only one who understood your struggles, having faced some of his own overcoming oppression and fighting for Roman citizenship. He was also the only one who you could truly confide in, every else too untrustworthy and suspicious. You didn’t want any handmaidens or servants going to Caecilius and revealing your meeting with Marcus.

Walking through the market in the heart of Rome, you looked over fruits in the vendor stands, placing a few in your basket and paying the seller with fine gold coins, Jaheim at your side. 

“So, the General has taken a liking to a Briton. Who’d have thought you would have that luxury?” Jaheim laughed, and you shook your head, a frown on your face.

“He doesn't know I am not fully Roman. He may turn away should he find that out. People frown upon “half-breeds.” It is a miracle father pushed for my marriages and were successful in them,” you said sourly, and Jaheim shrugged.

“You make a very convincing Roman lady. No one would think you’re a savage by blood.” he chuckled, and you cast him a hard look, but rolled your eyes.

“Fooled you once, too.” 

“Ah, but I could see right through you. However, I am more observant than most men of Rome. They see women as nothing but objects- to use or to admire or both. Where I am from, women are warriors. Fighters. Strong, unwavering. You remind me of them.” Jaheim said, and you smiled sadly.

“I wish that were true. I feel like I am not strong, having been tossed around from man to man. I am no better than a common whore.” you said, and Jaheim stopped you with a hand on your arm, his eyebrows furrowed deeply.

“Rafiki yangu (my friend), do you think I am also lesser because of my past? That is what they want you to believe. We rise above what they think, what they assume. We are stronger than what they think. Who we are resides here,” he said, putting his hand on his heart, giving you a light smile. “Kitakuwa sawa (it will be alright). We must persevere. What else is there to do?” 

“Where would I be without you?” you breathed, and placed a hand on his shoulder. “You have given me more wisdom in the short time that i’ve known you than any tutor I have ever had.” 

“Well, they do not have my worldly experiences, nor the insight of different perspectives on life. Or my stunningly good looks and mesmerizing charm.” he said with a smug expression. You laughed, shaking your head as you weaved in and out of the people. 

“I wish I had your confidence. And your good looks.” You stopped at a vendor and looked over the silver and gold jewelry, Jahiem began to converse with an acquaintance that had approached, leaving you to your devices. You picked up a particularly beautiful gold necklace with an engraving of a goddess. 

“Good choice! Juno- Queen of the heavens, fertility, and wife of the most powerful of the gods. I always say the first one you choose is a way of that god or goddess reaching out to you. Perhaps she has something in store for your future.” The saleswoman said, and you glanced at her, knowing she was just trying to push a sale, but your stomach fluttered a bit with anticipation. You began to put it back until a voice came up beside you,

“She will have it. Name your price.” 

Your head whipped to see Marcus standing next to you, and you tried to hide the surprised look on your face. He cast you a soft smile and handed the woman over far too many coins than the necklace was worth. She bowed and thanked him with a twinkle in her eye, and you smiled and took the necklace in your hand. Marcus gestured for you to walk, and your eyes cast up and down his form in a purple toga with silver linings on the edges, signaling his high status. You smiled lightly,

“General Acacius. What a surprise.” You said, genuinely happy to see him but kept it down. He looked so handsome in the sunlight, the silver in his robes reflecting his own silver in his hair. 

“I came to the market for entertainment and food. Looks like I found a little more than that.” He said, and you bit your lower lip to keep the smile that threatened to spread on your face. “You seem to have had a bountiful haul. But surely, it is getting heavy.” He noted, and you shook your head, 

“No. It’s bearable, really-“

“Allow me.” He said, taking the basket without further argument, and your eyes narrowed at him but didn’t dare try to retrieve it from him. To do so would draw eyes, and you did not want to invite more speculation to yourself. 

A voice called your name, and you turned back in relief to see Jahiem come up to your side.

“I was just telling Athos about the new bathhouse. He invited me to-“ but he stopped abruptly when he saw Marcus standing there, holding your basket. He seemed to wrack his mind for the identity of the man standing next to you, so tall and stoic. He looked at him with a hardened face, and Jahiem could only guess it could be one person.

“General Acacius… It is an honor.” He greeted with a bow, the sly look on his face as he glanced at you. You felt your face flush, thankful for the heat to mask it. You smiled at Jahiem, and gave his arm a firm squeeze.

“The honor is mine. Your name? You are a friend of the Lady’s?” Marcus questioned, his brown eyes questioning as he looked between you and the man with rich brown skin and sparkling blue eyes like the ocean.

“Jahiem Ventus,” he introduced, and bowed gently. “The Lady and I have a closeness, all good-natured and amiable of course.” He said, and Marcus nodded, his eyes moving back to you.

“Perhaps I could steal her away? Walk the rest of the marketplace with her?” Marcus questioned, and you opened your mouth to speak but Jahiem smiled wide,

“Of course, General. I was just about to steal away myself with a friend. But I wouldn’t dream of leaving her unchaperoned.” Jahiem said, and you glowered at him. 

“I believe I am capable of taking care of myself on my own, my friend.” You said icily, and he looked at her with a nod, but a bit of shame in his face. 

“My apologies. But I will see you at the games, yes?” He said, leaning to give you a kiss on the cheek. You forced a smile and returned the sentiment,

“Of course. Be on your best behavior, now.” You said, patting his shoulder gently and he chuckled, giving you a wink. 

“Only the Gods can judge that. Good day.” He said to you, then Marcus and bowed respectfully before departing. Marcus chuckled, and shifted the basket in his hand.

“Your friend is amusing. You do not seem pleased that he released you to me.”

“Yet another man speaking for me does not please me, General. I exercise what little free will I have. I shall walk with whom I please.” You said, and Marcus looked at you with furrowed brows.

“You do not wish to be accompanied?” He questioned, and you looked at him, seeing that pitiful look on his face. You sighed, and shook your head with a small smile.

“Hard to deny you when you look at me like that.” You said, and turned to keep walking. You glanced down at the necklace and Marcus turned in step beside you.

“Look at you like what?” He questioned teasingly, and you grinned down at your hand before looking up.

“Do not make me say it, General. It could be a dangerous observation.” You said, and stepped past a salesperson boasting the best leather sandals, entirely too close to you for comfort. You felt Marcus shift closer to you, as if to stave the man off if he came any closer and you clasped the necklace tight in your hand.

“Here, My Lady. Allow me.” He said, and handed off the basket to you in exchange for the necklace. You paused, and he swiftly put it around your neck, clasping it and letting it sit over your collarbones. His fingertips rested on the top of your spine for just a beat, and your heart flew into your throat. You cleared your throat, and looked at him when he came back around. He regarded you with a smile,

“As radiant as ever.” He complimented, and you looked at him with a soft expression. You looked away as you both neared the end of the marketplace, and felt your chest deflate at the thought of having to part with him.

“You mentioned the games, are you going to be present for them? In the Colosseum?” Marcus questioned, and you nodded.

“Yes. Caecilius insisted we join a few other senators and their wives for the spectacle. I could do without the gore and bloodbath, but I suppose I must keep up appearances.” You sighed, and Marcus nodded thoughtfully. You could see the gears turning in his mind as he looked off into the distance.

“Perhaps you will also find your way there?” You questioned casually, and you could sense the faintest smile from Marcus. He shrugged halfheartedly,

“Perhaps.” He said vaguely, and you smiled small yourself. Marcus’ hand brushed yours at your side, and it took everything in you to keep from taking his smallest finger within your own in the sea of people in the marketplace. 

That night, Marcus dreamed.

The same sounds of anguish and cries of pain echoed around him, his feet crunching under the gravel of the battlefield. The smoke and dirt wafted around, but he saw the figure ahead of him, leading him through it all. While the field was cloaked in darkness, he saw sun threatening to break on the horizon, where he followed the figure. Whoever this was, she would bring him to peace and serenity. Was it the goddess Minerva, with all of her wisdom and finally bringing him out of war? Or maybe Eos, the goddess who brought the new dawn, signaling the end of darkness?

But, he stopped as the sun finally broke the horizon, and the figure turned to him.

You looked at him, a small smile on your face, and extended your hand out for him. 

Reaching out, he knew you would lead him to salvation.

Comment, like, reblog, anything is appreciated! Divider by @/saradika-graphics!

[goshilovemesomemonsters]

… I hear you.. AND BOY DOES THAT GIVE ME IDEAS!! 🤩

An image of how Reader heals the Pilgrim gang~

✨Wukong✨

Gentle as can be~ takes her time to slowly heal every possible (or imagined) scratch and bruise, all with a loving hand~ …. And while teasing the absolute shit outa him… 😜

🤝🏻 Sandy 🤝🏻

Her bestie? Her BFF?? The go to method for healing the big blue good-boy™️ is of course their secret best-friends handshake~ 😎

😐 Pigsy 😐

Every time this guy tries to go in for a hug.. and every time he gets slapped in the face.. healing through violence… somewhat contradictory? Perhaps, but it works~

🙏🏻 Tang 🙏🏻

… She pinches his nose in a firm grip, and start lecturing him.. “repeat after me, I will NOT listen to Pigsy and go near the obviously suspicious Bogota in the distance, especially when everyone else tells me not to!” basically a Mom moment~

🐴 Ao Lie 🐴

Gentle head pats.. after his own Father sentenced him to death, the poor kid deserves some form of genuine affection.. another Mom moment~

YOU. You get it.

And if you don’t mind me adding on to this~ because this in turn gave me more ideas lmao

Honestly Wukong doesn’t even go to you for healing to begin with. He’s the Monkey King??? Immortalx6???? He doesn’t need your healing he can just heal himself 🤨. Yes it does hurt him to have to regrow or repair himself, I imagine it’s less that he heals himself and more just…speeds up the process of the injuries healing themselves meaning he gets a fuckton of pain all at once, but given he is both immortal and impatient, he doesn’t really think much of the pain…or he tries to tell himself that anyway.

But after one of the battles where he’s forced to go to Guanyin for help he finds himself angrily sulking because he doesn’t like having to ask for help. But then you come over and just…place a friendly hand on his shoulder and heal him. He is prepared for it to hurt like how he heals himself but it doesn’t?? In fact it feels nice??? What the Fuck™. He could have been getting THIS the whole time??

Every battle after that he is first in line to get healed (listen it’s just quicker if you heal him ok don’t look too deep into it-) even going so far as to push Pigsy out of the way at points. Don’t come between the monkey and his (excuse to get your hands on him) heals. See he thought he knew what he was getting into. A quick heal and (your touch…) he’s back to full health. He was wrong because reader is wise to his schemes and makes it their personal mission to fluster the shit out of him.

“Why is this taking so long??”

“Because you keep fidgeting”

“Well you need to hurry up!!”

“I’m adding on a minute of heal time for every time you rush me.”

“What?? No just finish up already!”

“Three minutes.”

“Stop going so slow!!”

“Four! Do I hear five?? Goodness your gonna give me the wrong idea if you keep this up. It’s like you want my hands on you~”

All the while you’re slooowly dragging your hands across him and he’s doing everything in his power to not think about how good it feels, how nice it feels to have your gentle and delicate touches on him and looking anywhere other than at you. Jokes on him though he may not blush super easily but his ears are always the first to show it.

Sun Wukong was NOT prepared for this. He’s used to admiration from his subjects, fear from his enemies, respect from those he’s fought. But this??? This is new. He’s not used to this. Even back on flower fruit mountain he was never subjected to this kind of attention. He doesn’t…hate it per-say, but he doesn’t know what to do with himself. He might try to cross his arms, make himself look intimidating he doesn’t know-

“Nah-ah, uncross those arms mister I need access to your chest.”

He is suffering. Your going to kill him he’s sure of it. This is how he dies. Just by being subjected to your ministrations. Yes he knows he could leave at anytime but he’s not going to.

It doesn’t really occur to him that you’re taking your time on purpose at first because it’s not exactly like he was paying attention the first time you healed him and he accepts your explanation of it being more precise when you touch him like that readily enough. To his credit he does eventually catch on to what your doing by being purposefully slow and handsy. But like by that point he’s down bad and doubles down.

He flips the script BIIIG time when he goes from “feelings are dumb” to courting/relationship status though. If he was a menace before now he is INSUFFERABLE.

“You missed a spot”

“Oh? Where?”

“Move your hands lower”

“WUKONG.”

“I am injured! Don’t you want to see me get better? 🥺”

Or otherwise now he is intentionally doing whatever he can to increase how long it takes

“Hey you still intend to go slower if I rush you right?”

“Probably? Why do you ask-“

“WOW you are going so slow you need to hurry up and finish already because this is taking forever, we’ve been here like all day seriously how much longer is this going to take??”

“…”

“How long does that buy me?”

“…”

*Insta-Heals him*

D:<

As for the others,

Sandy/Sha Wujing is an absolute sweetheart, always patiently waiting for his turn to be healed or for you to finish. Always asks for heals with a please and thanks you every time. Secret handshake is absolutely how he gets healed. 10/10 would heal again. Best patient ever.

Tang is….fine most times. He’s real sorry for making you go through the trouble though. Really sorry. Has he told you how sorry he is? Because he is. He’s really really sorry. Swears he won’t do it again. A simple shoulder pat is all he really needs as he feels reaaaaally sorry and just feels the worst about this. No but fr he feels SO GUILTY. Healing him is part actually healing him and part feelings jam because he probs needs to be reassured that what happened wasn’t his fault.

Oof but when it’s because of Pigsy starting shit again and pulls him into danger? That’s when the pinching starts. How many times have you and Wukong told him not to listen to Pigsy?? So many times?? AND YET??? …he’s still really sorry tho

Ao Lie doesn’t really need healing all that often due to being a horse most of the time but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t occasionally sidle up to you and push his head under your hand to ask for it. Carrying the monk all that time has gotta be tiring, even if he is a dragon. Especially since he isn’t even doing it in his natural form! So that little boost of energy you give him really helps him out. Also a sweetheart 10/10 (why can’t Pigsy be like you and Sandy FR)

Pigsy tho…bless Reader’s heart you TRIED to actually properly heal him once. But unfortunately with Pigsy being Pigsy that went about as well as expected. As soon as he found out you heal through touch it was all over. “Oh my fair friend I am dying!! Only your sweet kiss can heal me. 😚” which did result in the slap heal. To his…tiny tiny bit of credit he does stop the antics after the first few times. Not because he realized that it won’t happen, but because Wukong won’t let him. Literally, he tries to be his fail-suave self during a time when Wukong is standing right behind you and one very intense glare coupled with a hand going to his ear to pull out his cudgel is all it takes to get him to stop….mostly. Still tries it when Wukong isn’t around though. Always results in a slap.

[zerokrox-blog]

Steve has a handshake with each kid. Even Mike Wheeler has a specific handshake, they all are elaborate but each one ends with a specific move to each kid, Dustin with the lightsaber move, Lucas's ends with a fake basketball shot, Max's ends with them both pretending to leap on to a skateboard, El pretends to drop an eggo with Steve falling to 'catch it', Will throws a flourishing signature into the air with Steve pretending to catch it with his hands held out like paper, and Mike to everyone's surprise ends with he and Steve pretending to be shot in the chest. It's DRAMATIC™️. Both boys lay on the floor for one full minute before getting up and pretending it didn't happen.

The first few times it happened in front of the party Nancy rolled her eyes so hard until they pretended to be shot, each of them 'shooting' the other. Holly thought it was HILARIOUS and copied them.

The Hellfire club however was in shock when King Steve came in to pick up the younger kids and Dustin immediately went over, hugged him and started their handshake, Will came over next for his hug and handshake, then Lucas. All of them talking over each other and excitedly told Steve about the day's newest adventure in their campaign. Mike looked awkwardly at the older boys, at Eddie's dumbfounded expression, Gareth, Jeff and Grant looked surprised, Rachel, Clair and Alex and Corey looked strangely at the group of freshmen babbling away to Steve Fucking Harrington. And Mike popped out of his seat as Steve looked up at him, and Mike saw the soft smile on his face kinda drop a bit at the look on his own face. He felt embarrassed to be honest but he also wanted his handshake, he'd never tell a soul but it was nice having something that was solely his and Steve's. So he went over and held out his hand. Steve looked directly at him, his eyes held the question he would never ask out loud, 'is this ok? Are you comfortable doing this?' But Mike kept his hand out and Steve's face lit up.

Grinning, the two of them did their elaborate handshake ending with them 'shooting' each other. Steve very super dramatically grabbed his chest and slowly sank to the floor and flopped down 'dead'. Mike laughed out loud before dropping down beside him.

A full minute passed until both of them stood up and without even making eye contact, Steve's voice was remarkably calm when he asked, "so Mike, did you kill anyone this session?"

Mike shook his head and rambled a bit about their session as they gathered their stuff. All of them heading out with a wave and a bright "bye guys! See you all tomorrow!"

The drama room door slammed shut behind them and it was oddly silent until Eddie turned to Gareth, "did you all see that, or did I just hallucinate Steve Harrington doing elaborate nerdy handshakes with my sheepies?"

The room exploded into laughter, "nah man that actually happened!" Jeff said snorting with laughter.

[lundenloves]

OH MY GOD i was gonna send u smth abt dad!soap cause i wantsd to see how u imagine him ur feeding us sm

dad!soap who has the fucking loudest boys. you can absolutely hear them before you can see them, the type of kids to shout when you’re two metres away.

dad!soap who had zero finesse in teaching his kids not to swear. fucking hell. the amount of cards they’d been written up at school for blurting out random words.

dad!soap who will answer every. single. question. he loves trying to explain things to this little human who relies on him. though, 99% of words are haphazardly explained for lack of better definitions. “just a wee, like, a wee thing,”

dad!soap whose face lit up when his kid got into some mad shit like mountain or dirt biking.

dad!soap whose son insisted he also have a fucking mohawk, running mad riot, you had almost killed johnny upon walking in to see your son like that.

dad!soap whose kids are outdoor™️ kids. they’ll always follow him out on hikes and will forever jump in each and every puddle they come across with a grin.

dad!soap who finds his children genuinely fucking hilarious. of course, crediting himself for their throw away humour and unseriousness.

dad!soap who has different handshakes with his boys. greeting them every morning w a handshake and a kiss to the temple bc he’s fuckin chill like that. “mornin’ mate.”

dad!soap who has encouraged every endeavour his sons have wanted to go on. skateboarding? fuckin’ kick on son. ‘there you go’ the first time one of them had dropped in.

dad!soap who brings his kids everywhere. literally. he’ll have brought them to base one day to drop in a letter or smth, and them kids are running RIOT before bumping head first into prices hip.

dad!soap who went on one trip with simon and all fucking three of his girls only to credit his lieutenant even higher because fuck the effort that man has to put in. meanwhile his boys were instantly shoving sticks into the dirt to find worms.

dad!soap who will pick up both of his kids at the same time and sway them side to side in his arms, chucking them onto the sofa with added dinosaur sound effects. dinosaurdad is real.

[mintpiastry]

OKAY since i’ve an exam in less than 10 hours and as of now i do not possess the mental capacity to fully develop it as a story (or even make it make sense) here you have a MATTDRAI time loop/soulmates au idea (that probably doesn’t make much sense and could be written much better) inspired by THE handshake™️ and Florida!!! by Taylor Swift:

for our noble purpose (mattdrai) in this world people realise they are soulmates after getting to know each other long enough for a connection to happen, strangers can’t be bonded together as strong feelings need to be involved in the bonding process, sometimes the bond manifest in few months other times it takes years. so long story short even if they have been fooling around for ages it’s only during the 2022 BoA playoff series that Leon and Matthew get bonded and realise they are soulmates, they both silently agree to not acknowledge it until after their respective playoffs are over, or so Leon thought…of course this doesn’t happen :) and Matt disappears and ghosts Leon that has to discover from a social media post that his supposed soulmate got himself traded as far as possible while also remaining in the nhl (at least they are in the same continent) from him, at this point all leon’s thoughts about making it work get thrown out of the window bc fuck it even someone like him can understand the message tkachuk wanted to deliver with the trade.

fast forward to the present where it’s game 7 of the Stanley cup finals (strong emotions are very much involved!!!) and this time it’s matthew’s team the one winning, during the handshake line they barely interact, but the bond is still there, uncomfortable and never spoken of, Leon disappears in the locker room with his teammates to lick his wounds in peace and Matthew proceeds to celebrate with his team all night and almost all the day after he goes to bed with the intention of sleeping few hours to start partying all over again, life goes is supposed to go on; or so they thought but soul bonds cannot be left unattended for so long without consequences (oh you don’t wanna talk about it? fine, the universe will make you anyway :):) ) and that’s why Leon wakes up once again in so much pain seated on the bus going to the arena and he has to play in game 7 of the final again and again and again; the rough part is that he never wins (later he will realise that it’s not the point of the loop so he cannot change it no matter how much he tries to) [note: Leon is sooooo going to therapy after the loop breaks] but that doesn’t stop him from trying over and over again; for a while he thinks the right answer to break the loop is to win the cup after a while he realises that while that is untrue somehow it’s still connected to the game; he is also convinced that no one else is stuck with him because there are no hints about it thats until the tenth/twentieth/ who knows loop (?) when Matthew happens to change the established pattern and during the handshake, instead of ignoring him, he stops to talk and there he is referencing something happened during a previous loop and Leon is so surprised and angry about it because his soulmate is looping too but instead of reliving one of his worst day ever he is reliving what is probably the best one, and it’s not fair, also he is pissed because of course matthew spent all the loops until this one winning and basking in the glory of it all instead of informing leon. So leon looses it in front of everyone and it’s only because someone holds him tight from the back that tkachuk doesn’t get murdered right there; whatever explanation tkachuk tries to give, he doesn’t want to listen to it, he is done.

The next loop he decides to not play.

[allykatsart]

pls i’m so feral about your deer boi oc tell me more i wanna know how the whole everyone notices he’s terrified of alastor thing goes

Who is Peccantum?

HO BOY YOU ASKED FOR IT-

Husk, of course, is the first to notice.

He's a gambler, bartender, and is far more attentive than other sinners give him credit for. Of course he notices Peccantum is treading on eggshells everywhere, and not just for comedic effect. The young buck is genuinely terrified of Alastor.

However, Husk isn't one to act on that information. Not only is it none of his business, Husk is also kind of in the same boat as Peccantum. Honestly, the bartender thinks Peccantum's fear is warranted. He does soften over time, but what can he do, really?

Angel Dust is the first to help.

It would be post episode 4, when Angel really starts to connect with others at the hotel. Angel just kinda always assumed Peccantum was a panicky, on edge weirdo. As they get to know each other a little more, Angel realizes that's not actually the case. Peccantum is usually a sarcastic, passionate, clever guy! So the way the bellhop acts around Alastor... It reminds Angel a touch too much of his situation with Val

(Not in romance or assault, but in the 'Im going to fuck with you for my own amusement' way)

So, Angel starts doing little things. He doesn't want to piss off the strawberry pimp, so no direct confrontation, but he can still help Peccantum not get jump scared. Angel greets Alastor out loud when Alastor enters a room quietly. He lingers in rooms where Peccantum would be alone otherwise. Small things that prepare Peccantum beforehand.

In return, Peccantum makes Angel warm drinks when Angel comes back from a long day. He learns recipes that Angel likes and cooks dinner. He gives Angel a book called "A hundred and one dirty jokes for the wickedly perverted." Small things.

They don't talk about it, and it's not a foolproof strategy, but it helps.

Sir Pentious, the best friend, takes it very seriously.

Sir Pentious doesn't pick up on it like Husk and Angel do, so it takes an actual conversation with Peccantum about it for him to realize it's serious. Pentious and Peccantum are Science Buddies™️ so it doesn't take long before Pentious starts coming up with inventions that might help! Magic seeking goggles, ocular augmentations, even a scanner to help identify Alastor before he appears! They have a little fun with it.

In the end, though, Pentious keeps it simple. He and Peccantum develop a secret hand signal for if Peccantum needs someone to distract Alastor. That way Peccantum can slip away and calm himself down if he's spiraling!

They also develop a secret handshake but that's beside the point.

Charlie....

Despite what everyone thinks, Charlie isn't stupid. She's observant and empathetic, and quickly picks up that Peccantum is nervous around Alastor. She can understand that, Hell, sometimes the Radio Demon makes her nervous! She's also a fixer, so would try to resolve the issue with diplomacy and setting boundaries. Sure, Alastor probably doesn't care about Peccantum, but Alastor does listen to her!

But she doesn't have the context.

I don't think Peccantum would tell her anything, and may actively try to keep his thoughts about Alastor private from her. I also think Alastor has made it clear that if Peccantum tries to hide behind Charlie, he's in for a lot worse than just some scares. Alastor defers to Charlie out of obligation and opportunity, but he refuses to have others use her to manipulate himself. Especially not a soul he owns.

Peccantum, of course, complies. He has to convincingly lie to Charlie, which makes his stomach squirm with guilt, but it's fine. He's overreacting anyways. It's fine. It's the price he chose to pay for power.

As long as he has magic, he shouldn't care what Alastor decides to do with him.

It's fine.

(No, it's not)

[adventure-showdown]

What is your favourite Doctor Who story?

TOURNAMENT MASTERPOST

synopses and propaganda under the cut

Caerdroia

Synopsis

Self-exiled to a new universe, separated from the TARDIS, opposed and manipulated by the Divergence and their agent the Kro'ka, the Eighth Doctor has been struggling to work out the nature of the cosmic game in which he's an unwilling pawn. Now, at last, he has a chance to find the answer — and regain the TARDIS!

Threatened and desperate, the Kro'ka abandons his behind-the-scenes machinations to confront the Doctor directly. But will both of them lose their way in the maze of the strange world in which they find themselves? A world in which a clock may have a cuckoo but no hands, a labyrinth imprisoning a paradox, and a Garden of Curiosities reveals something the Doctor has never seen before.

As the Doctor faces these challenges, Charley and C'rizz provide valuable help. But with the TARDIS itself at stake, the Doctor reaches deep inside himself to find some surprising new allies.

Propaganda no propaganda submitted

Scherzo

Synopsis

Once upon a time...

There were two friends, and together they travelled the cosmos. They thwarted tyrants and defeated monsters, they righted wrongs wherever they went. They explored the distant future and the distant past, new worlds and galaxies, places beyond imagining.

But every good story has to come to an end.

With no times or places left to explore, all the two friends have now are each other. But maybe that's one voyage too many. Maybe they'll discover things they'd rather have left undisturbed... hidden away in the suffocating, unfeeling, deafening brightness.

Once upon a time. Far, far away.

Propaganda

It’s a great and fucked up dissection of the Doctor and Charley’s relationship, with a healthy dose of body horror (anonymous)

you will never look at the handshake emoji the same way again (october)

Really creative concept. Puts 8 and Charley into a situation where they have to confront their relationship and what they mean to each other while dealing with an incredibly engaging creature. I can't name an audio that suits the medium better and Ive been consuming Big Finish at an alarming rate. Also noises™️ (anonymous)

Absolutely INSANE episode back when big finish was allowed to get WEIRD weird it has everything: heartfelt discussion about the doctor/companion relationship, love, cannibalism, body horror, the exploration of a very alien world. All of this while making full use of the audio medium in a story that could simply never have been done anywhere else. It's a must listen for everyone. (@gnougnouss )