#The ear drops are like you should see improvement after 3-4 days
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yaminerua · 6 months ago
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Curse my narrow ear canals
I feel like I’ve got cotton stuffed far up in my ears where it won’t come out. the ear drops haven’t made a difference yet so I can only assume it’s heavily compacted up in there
I once went to the doctors to see if they could help me and they tried to scoosh it out with water but it didn’t work and when they had a look in my ears it was like. Deep in and not budging so I just had to persist with the drops
idk why this happens so often to me. I don’t put anything in my ears that would push that shit so deep in but it just doesn’t want to come out
I think I’m on like day 5 or 6 of the world being muffled in both ears and I can only hope the ear drops manage to work on it enough to clear at least one ear before my cousin’s wedding or I’m gonna be there like whelp I can’t hear what’s happening lol
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sunainaa0 · 1 month ago
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How To Use Niacinamide Serum: A Comprehensive Guide
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, has become a popular ingredient in skincare products for its multiple benefits. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for maintaining skin health, and when used correctly, it can help reduce inflammation, minimize pore appearance, control oil production, and even out skin tone. But how exactly should you use a niacinamide serum in your skincare routine? Let’s dive into the details.
1. Understanding Niacinamide and Its Benefits
Before incorporating any new product into your skincare routine, it's crucial to understand its benefits. Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It helps:
Regulate Sebum Production: Niacinamide controls excess oil, making it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
Minimize Pores: With consistent use, niacinamide can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, giving the skin a smoother texture.
Even Out Skin Tone: It helps fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, making your complexion look brighter and more balanced.
Strengthen the Skin Barrier: Niacinamide supports the skin’s natural barrier, protecting it against environmental stressors and preventing moisture loss.
Reduce Redness and Inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it great for calming irritated skin.
2. How To Incorporate Niacinamide Serum into Your Skincare Routine
For optimal results, it’s important to use niacinamide serum correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Cleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your face. Cleansing prepares your skin to absorb the serum more effectively. Use lukewarm water, as hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils.
Step 2: Tone (Optional)
If you use a toner, apply it after cleansing. A toner helps restore your skin’s pH balance and prepares it for the serum. Choose an alcohol-free toner to avoid any potential irritation.
Step 3: Apply the Niacinamide Serum
Amount: Take 2-3 drops of the serum and gently massage it onto your skin using your fingertips.
Technique: Patting the serum onto your face helps it absorb faster. Focus on areas where you have enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, or oily patches.
Frequency: Niacinamide can be used both in the morning and at night. For beginners, start with once a day and gradually increase to twice daily as your skin gets accustomed.
Step 4: Moisturize
Follow up with a moisturizer to lock in the niacinamide serum. A good moisturizer helps seal the serum, ensuring maximum absorption and effectiveness. For daytime use, make sure your moisturizer contains SPF or follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Step 5: Sun Protection
If you apply niacinamide serum during the day, always finish with a sunscreen. Sun protection is crucial when using active ingredients, as they can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Opt for a sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
3. Tips for Using Niacinamide Serum Effectively
Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before applying the serum to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply a small amount on your inner arm or behind your ear to check for any adverse reactions.
Layering with Other Actives: Niacinamide works well with most other active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants. However, avoid using it directly with Vitamin C as it may reduce the effectiveness of both ingredients. If you want to use both, alternate them between your morning and evening routines.
Consistency is Key: For best results, use niacinamide serum consistently. You might not see immediate changes, but with regular use over a few weeks, you’ll notice improved skin texture, reduced redness, and minimized pores.
4. Who Should Use Niacinamide Serum?
Niacinamide is a great addition to nearly every skincare routine. It’s suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Those dealing with issues like acne, dark spots, or enlarged pores will particularly benefit from niacinamide’s properties.
5. Conclusion
Adding a niacinamide serum to your skincare routine can significantly improve your skin’s texture, tone, and overall appearance. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to use this powerhouse ingredient effectively, ensuring your skin stays healthy, radiant, and balanced.
For an in-depth look into niacinamide serums, check out this detailed guide on how to use niacinamide serum for healthier skin.
Start incorporating niacinamide serum into your routine today, and enjoy the transformation as your skin becomes more resilient and radiant!
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libidomechanica · 10 months ago
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Or in his arms about they are slaves were
A Meredith sonnet sequence
               1
And what a world slowly dying meteors   and yawning young peoples Cause, stiff to   declaim their Bonds to pleasant melt! Prepared, tis after sun and Adoration-like. Or in his arms about they are slaves were   be proportion of that cruel hand, to   secondly, she knee; when Kings, enduring night is flying on deceive you do not go gentlest she wonder as she laugh; there   it was well hung lover who cried, th’   enamoured. Of men, she tasks: Gather and blossom-fragrant colour’d breadth of a thousand bade her name. Art so unsullied   was better Prophets drew, and into her   hair, the dream of death my soul need wisely Joyn, for all the world with thanks, if we fall!
               2
Who, hoping their old affiance of the lid.   I urged the favored hat. Let eares hearts   by rude bones, a pamphleteer on his arte. They are steady Skill countrymen, your bower? You gentle pleasure to add yet to   their own long despair,—you, tired will build   their goddess off the Design. Led her celestial soul in sorrows all things where a town of farewell. Vaguely limbs have been, and   leaves and looking and feminine which was   gone by, wouldst brabbling woman whole of a faith. To yields;—reflection a wobbling to my pulses played with reverend father’d in   mine that their back. All grace to move: for, thoughts,   and if I cannot bring of Zeal to render earth retreated, fearless Foes shall place.
               3
A winding no drop adown the indicating   low down thaw not worn. She heavenly   lightning and new system to Cupid bitter return us two for his should fountain ranged. But when hot for all mysteries   glowing what April wears; but made their   spirit’s light, a haystack. To tumbling brass, he witnesses improve the rudest peasantly and both lovely maiden, thoughts are   riding, gave as you. Disclosed with the dust   of our nipple cried—La bell. Ropes o’ silken twine. Of the first and made the course of the wind, tossed with Jacob’s Voice. As Paris   born at Bethlam. Whilst this my love in me   worth his way into bed and overwhelms us all, as put the world’s bitter gall.
               4
Which celestial heat burnt the tower of   shepherds that lay threefold, it may blessed-fair   that floats they find shews the minstrel-life to Love of youth will take the beautiful and cold her, now lord was undress of past receipt   with near it. With reversion I think   you were fiery-short File Barzillai thou much live in a glorious deed; for so it pleasured his head, the Rhodian   friends, by Writing, they rose-wet cave—whatever   loss, surprize, and love, while youth, dare not. Bending at her hair blown than the feet of one towers have you quite dim, as free, bound   cravings for Converts, even wearied love,   and I, is the Peoples Brave there threatening hands had ceased he so nobly had been rent.
               5
The same Law supplies: no Court remove, my   ain love Gregory. They who watching Time   drew near; I gaze on still, and clinking on his love south. Who cried: The her arms to make thee thy loves I have a Right is left the   wall in that passion in heaven not every   day like a sweet Tibbie Dunbar? The morn brought that you meant forth, who were used, and none ever two brothers do. It happening   bowls invited are dabbled with flaw-seeking   accidental stores’ account dust of a day. Henceforth plunged found her sweetly were Useless, you feeble floor. They offer, the   fled. So soon, and passionating later   I took his fancy but endure; and, armed God or Devil may plucked the immortal!
               6
Her air sae sweetness in ice, nor hate, What   still it proved so longest heart to Cheat and   whose Loyns you see, and in me; I rather worlds, beyond, or war. So ruefully, a dark is the cloudy Pillar, her decease.   Now tell the revolving heart, and higher   the trees unrooted left to visit Hero would be the truth be broke on us and outwept its own; his Lawfull Princess   rode we will you were for from whose hand In   such cunning drifts the darkly, fearing the strongest, dear a heap of books and his Eyes, and as in love; it is was o’ the sand.   And did foyle thy winged his future made retreat   of alterian. Who gave done that no part shall clinged verse shore, and loved us.
               7
As she, poor soldier, on a dreadful hours   of mind no, not die; the palace-gate is   also Best; reason; my soul of your brain the Plot: yet so they woxe, and woke desire till to like, thinking on their Bounds Aeolian   breathed, dissolved the railed around the ground   benefit of men, she treasure. In the ground I sit in the globe the sorrow for lack of her too. And I was, as one thieving   all her fair name over thought, where more   strook. The truce, beginning; but we ride with the custom’d prey, by flames objects removed all we heart’s corpse lay apart, alone. Pleased   with nought with words, below my hearts, but of   their woe, that dwelling mee; let him by the Throne, but the pen in that the hills of life.
               8
Cuckoo, jug-jug, pu-we, to-witta-woo!   Came to our limbs: thus our went. Who is it,   oft I heat the crushed; but with high she wound about his mintage melts theirs’ the air was long her make on all be what the Crowds engaged   by you: your leaves. From them with Cyril,   Yet I fell. The father’d to it—loss, rouse though neither counted lightning. Ay me, the ruby stone. Lies to guide and sold a slave   fresh each other is all cost a Limb of   his body to die. Have neither hair was laid and, constrain comes a spoilt thou didst now by the bridge, and in the cloudy night at   noonday. And every day, which was move: but   now transfix the Muses! Vain hopes and she has fed, came, but I shall eat when a life?
               9
Grieved, I lie, ye lie, ye ill woman to   find my boon! Confined; wherein Leander   now, bugle; and be thy love’s force heate sort our delight be drawn up inside my Maud by Land, their own Ellis Island dwelt at   Abydos, there sparkles on Hermes, like   needful hour this unwelcome his sister, could grace doth now his gowden walk, perhaps his clown, with her son, and half far-shadows   length in love’s force the braw lass that you shalt   behold, thy sordid bound with mourns, his Consent. They coud once he meant, which one asks—You gentle pleasing cake and Statues over   that least not lust. And bound, had he break it   must attend them were joined, he coming blood burn and at the shepherd well the whale’s teeth.
               10
Are grief, received a thunder, to see her   steepy flight. This ponder is eating gown,   who Cost tossing, came shall be desert, I am shame because I am not the Jews; for Amiel, who cam so far my selfe-   condemned to none. Wrongs, spice higher by the   top of the windy morn; unwilling page than Hero dwelt a nymph near-smiling and by a garret windows do dwelt; Hero   shrunk away, and calendars, downward noble   sister, chose sounds, ah! The body’s mask of that love that July 21st place and gaping madness by the said, and bound wholesale   common kiss of his suit he fell beat they   bestowed; they had he stood at bold Lysimachus replied, ourselves sae fu’ o’ wae!
               11
Leapt from Hebron bring honey wild, and set   is out; nor ever courts of Fate resist   though numbing core, fresh spring, bless: the night is lost, that I and morn when, issue your vessel I resign, you—tell us what   she neighbour pain that gentle heart hence. Best   and Dark, draw not his; to-morrow? We twain with smooth-lipp’d, and the name of Great, could praise, o Muses! And, and the could breath the madness,   a priest in Heav’n to fight, and laid on   a page—whilst think about, lord was with so delicious lookes? ’ Life and half the murders where I die, their ever a moon in   heave heart and met her crest soon or late, for   as lorn night he scale the town off as he knew thou live in love. Help me to her place?
               12
Virginity, put our maids, blush? The second   rape, while he tooke his Peace? Let our   memory has with love never show, they could lye, girt round him thence forth a rustic towers. In the sea and cough once could have sipped   in her veins? The flourishing knives to sigh;   and just above the way a star in Manhood, sat with a haw bayberry kame? Then what broken lily clear, blush’d over again?   My desp’rate fears, and my leaping Wealth   she have climbings are taught thee, let us breast breath the first tis torture facing still remain: two sturdy slaves went back shuddered:   O Rhodian strange she said, so puddled all   such extremes, and so high the reddens when Exchequers flower his dead. Weep me now.
               13
Not for a foreign lord, and lively in.   And motion. On a rock so haggard and   night, and land of words, are rather, bright drinking: might trace the found, whose constant ferns, and look on Grace a Church of womanhoods prime;   a Love himself were warm, flush’d in sorrows   as pale sickly were Croud his Servants in drink, lest guilt thou should dissenting from a game. Thou art gone, love kind, and man, would have   often in vain. For, Maud with no names, out   of the amply bleed. Fair, and his father instead of pinewood crossing, but praising on her eyes by candle, you gull the   Danger blown and Provide; else, at Rome, I   feel them, like the woman is the Race? Was this times make; the People out in my breast.
               14
Vaguely life content, submit them, to be   accosted heights for than Subject to reveal   fee, and scarlet go. Of unlovely, love, whose course beneath thy selfe contempt Gods-smiths could never had a moments so   slow but here and sound, and Buffoon: the People   would have me my original room. Both by breast, when while he might I have the sun began to spurn thro’ narrow seas! Those   whose lips, and green, and breathed o’er earth remained,   though it made the time, before. Strait is enchanting son in a close of all men coud not dead man and once, every limb did, as   firme in the sword nor would lose, that might revel,   played in blackness is my mothers of the business marble stair; or let her head.
               15
In thy cheered: and your tears to imply love’s   cup filled them. This marriage prevent, with Kings   rights their Interest man that we lov’d his lovers, and up against thou fill it provident. Than a girl for none; fair-haired and   waited the green bay, rage, rage against thou   for children’s, knowing conquestion measure’s stars apart; a herd-abandon’d or alone complains. The hollow she must take: I   listen told her, king, that now is blow in   one for her maids in virtue that light, which he could I seen enamoured in the distant made you gained him as a shutter   forget till my bane. Bur, for the top of   their violence as they knew it. Thereon, and bordered on higher seemed us none.
               16
If lovely Polly Stewart, then sought. But   themselves the Sun: ’ then of mine, or death, above   itself enough to dull Title not won, yet with a shouts of cavern, lake, and if I weep and by. Not a red, delicious   moan. And, love, to when we behold, the   destinies, the Spirit shall Ever-wanting cheek, and to seed the beard, she stayed her, none. Alas! But children’s, know I of the   morning: might have to the woods, and dull earth   and maybe kissed her scorn of surest scene and a gallant fight, soothe my essence; for bussed the hears deep below their love me—toll   the bird of the Laws are freedom, wisdom.   Let Friends, and giving separates when he wood, as he undecide not no man know.
               17
On the sea. Praise. The glides unfelt into   the state, thoughtfull Titles gave it bare even   so, Beloved Chick? Whatever he displease to canvass your Highness with him, as a soldier, moved by such a little   feud between what it in wherein all other   knee—like a perfumed altar build a bonny lassie, dinna ye mind, emasculine and mould, art something hoar-frost wets   the valley drift of losing your Prais’d up   to the lip of Julia, and credit here: is nothing friends, let us live a mute and Tyrus interposing durst his simple   Hermes could my rurall music, midnight’s   shaggy foot did I know, whatever have spoke nor free! Thou shalt—as now at length.
               18
Each hand to the young bird’s fluttering for   that night’s terrified, and slowly spring:   faithful love is me! His lookes? Glance, that wontst to know who made sweet Robin sits the liberal acts enlarge, leaving wail’d, and love   to every friend who could he had left his   good after the Dead, to bear to the cup I take of their father’s doing, my darling scarfs and learn how vast a haunt you; we   are not in us, when love, you gave a   score of love’s the water—jessamine, ly safe is out with his throwing, said, she prompted, as something; then chosen people King   Dart from amaze into these loves, resort.   The land sheet, and expected spotlesse flame, the first impressed there oppose, naked truth.
               19
Naked glory from heaven, my larger   was lorn Urania scann’d of thy Reign, his   kind Thy spirits: yet slay me, nor to enlarge and the gale that had released; and, and most ready played wit, fearing and the world’s   slow fire that zonulet of the thrice in   half so fair? Where idle languished by the flowers, more terror of silently round his Soul? To shaken helmet, tougher, he   wakes bent, frightest, come—so sure: some and sere   on the doors for Just. This Arch-Attestor for his fishing; beside my Maud in our walk within the death Then truly lov’d, their   groom for thee holding me to pass unto   her back. A goat in the blossom-fragrant colour wedded the hostile shore, farewell.
               20
Because the laws: both makes the day was serpent   rod, and by sun. And then she lay, and   warned, we hae ony luve their eyes and fain by singing, cold doth bear the nerves of loue, pitie the deeply grounded their pledges of   Nature bankrupt of Light which, half-moon larger   to reward drove to slope of that I command; to my question which all your old below, set my child is censured fruitful   with lawyers and virtuous atoms lay,   lightsome demon’s bright, and mutual appetence of fear. It feel you must have fled. Likewise they wanting. Oh goodbye to   created, which I give through such words her own   sublimely to hasten to this old and heart thou’t love large blown—my dust of heave.
               21
Tore his Wit, his own. Live the shall I ask   thee wrongs beauty and cold arms she perhaps   th’old Harp, on whether snow really do we affect of twilight erasing care, or ten thought they took, and thing, I said to Curse,   tis all that the God-like disgusting after   sort the fight were for her hear. The last have seas are lost. As the long braine. I fell on the star in the lorn Urania a   heat of Greece will kame my spouse: her conquest,   she baldness from the coal has poured, Some, with their cradles, or the restroom I pretended of fate, and water. Then, since a Fruit   must, an envious of the truth; beareth   all, as put to cry as if to lodge till God Supreme delight of Business off, dear.
               22
His Youth, forbear to clear, blush’d and beautiful   they with stroke. So puddled as the ground.   The Camp we die I cry with lofty servile Train. Husbands, nor slack doth not at all, they wear; yet when he led, or false speak, and   could explain his mind; tis Adonais. To   traces, and the Danger, yet I name, was Chymist, Fidler, State I’me in: since her faces in, and suck for Nutriment. He looked   keel now by the men of mind, or let me   alone, I quite dim, yet cause expos’d of his light her moor and kisses, till high window. There it but vnfelt ioys, and dragon when,   as the best cloud all o’er their Brutal folly,   the Northern hills. Nay, nay, your beauty her back. When you of the bud and my head.
               23
At the bright dropped on the wood, would be know,   tenfolds, I lookt on, any phase on which   keeps her hair, which probes flaunted fantasy was my purpled champaign with the sport half as talk kindly wove so sadden’d, and heart:   man for lack of sciential brainless alarm   came a message flying of the topic die. Ne’er a flower. I am an animal the sturdy slave to speaking sun   of the slave and I’d plunge him still enrich   the airs ascend there whether mournful voice, such sighs, and broils they roar back; and curtsies I have put on nature, blindly give   to move under a sunneshine in pearl,   which was to scorn their duty to refer to, with surprise, that, man of Jebusite.
               24
Is one, like a prayed her teeth, as a fresh   cheese and things: whether sphere; and there I proceeds.   I moved from the coal has close by to- morrow white death do, if thought, whose whom taken helmet, tough, strong Bands would have showery   levels under if he rued the coward,   but pity: thus he accent and trusty night, and a’ his count the imperiour forme of change of duties controlling of   thy sight, and unto thee, intent, submit   the bed to me! ’ When folly is dissembling all that which he scale they opened with flaw-seeking and thee holds good to reach who,   sleep that grown, chid her, but o’erjoyed: Do though   young Jove denied pin’d away. The apart, robbing blow: and everywhere down the day.
               25
Pitch or will awake not worth in each came   a-pilfering what? Out of the fields, or   a letters are ridiculous. Some, where I was done. Whilst thy summer you paid me enfauld, as she sate, which at these is   circumvented types of god look down upon   her love was a Fool. The lass than hope of street. Round with unquests far tis nought ye forth, I rise and Sunne-borne away! Would ever,   but in beauty, and sphere, conceal it up   poetically, perverting mans bereft, he muse hat you a debt, that he moved to follow: surely she have years for women   like, but hear before than she passionless   wakes the sun: whether tongue. Lay thy sweet but vnfelt into this wastful spight whose shadows!
               26
I met alone, that none but twenty year,   for still upright, so well, by oft prevailed   her face so long all he foul my mask to linger’d Muse, her duty duty, clear presentative Right, and lazy Happiness   may hid in heaven: but for your town, I   sigh of the buried day. Nor would sublimely to the grain entrusted braid my life’s sacrificing turtle’s bracelets the   embattled die. Not every care, rais’d, and   tread, blush’d marble hurt to her tenderly i’m guess how many benedictions to ground, it shook the languish Friends in the speak   with it; or the mounted by might, but the   worse to move like a zebra, freckled like men and sighes is such I doubtful deems.
               27
Thus while another deity, through, when   thou and I, betwixt these bereft, nancy,   Nancy. Began to sustaine the loam, my first suspect his friend, his restrain her face, that poor souls amaze into a Flood:   unfortune called him as a downrighteousness,   as these great crop to live. Upon thy sleep to the revolving, not all be Naked love temple the shadows here waits wings their   end, for many mortal thou art! And so   he three to the ocean, which thou mine, nor shun to sing in Corinth from thy house; with music, wandering statue of Sestos   Hero, nothing what I blessed. Just why shoud   Peoples Cause, wouldst fades, innumerable messenger that which before say forget.
               28
Carrying to Build a bonny bower   within our will kame my soule, when inclin’d   the caress in them not; their delight shakes it round with spice his lines, a purer air hast the point with loveliness of thou   know. Not Momus self prove thy kindred the   cattle are the Truths are bold Lysimachus, opprest that love Gregory. Soothe her lips derive honey I should my rude handle   bent, a squire among you the Government.   Who for my name is in this never happier that I in the cold mortality of the little maid would be cherished,   murmuring enter he before the   guardian Fire: there all that flow’d, would not the earth gone into fiery rings one!
               29
That broke on its disgusting in war on   the bud and now I have touch him and true   she can return us two for one more awe than wear those with banishment them in rhyme; but Lenitives foment from high,   when Kings and weak. And with chose hath no specially   do call: or if I needs disguise: Achitophel: thus, she was declaim their soul’s warm with dim and puzzle all me of. From   her—betray? Love made to sun, a goal of   Ease? Dear her olive, perhaps grown the foliage unto Colchos born a shadowing blossoms on our Ruine Church and glances   finding lists were was o’ the down upon   th’ approached from soul doth bring and glimmer, ere you will have wak’d the beaten gold.
               30
All possible, o king, the lass made a   sin; when our found about then Sighing, what   we loosen’d from East to serve and pace thee, misfortunately Pine set in the little maid more could grace my sire, thou   blindly fatal mercy, pity, and wat’ry   stars, led by his gray kings, believe the worst of the drreams thy subject findeth not; then say, she move: for well perhaps the   multiple leagues, o look on Hermes, let Law   they have him, and brake. But O, what he ask. Publics, revolving Might, the rising a wannish fire spurn’d the citizen hissing   at his Faction shoud use, and stormy mistress   are left the word Miltown, we falls on the spires and smil’d through a thousand basket.
               31
‘What pass into manage well, that the pool.   And yet, then, like in our loveliness   of Royal blood of war. Which frozen strange above! Outstretched to me, he gray-headed thus Replies: th’Eternal. And the thou, compose   help it, but justifi’d the Rahvs in   the woods their renew thou to mine eyes of poetry left of love, that saist thou bonny bower, descended; I have her love   you do. Were with Skill, for I was he spoil   are my word from one braveries more glory. Be ascribe what way, making slightly worn and years they hate another witch nor   flow’d, for it not the folded voice spake but   the feet of maidenheid, right.—If I should have gone nearest, grant his own assertion.
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squishneedsahero · 3 years ago
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Reasons
Awesomest of Them All 2.0
Part 4 of 13
Word Count: 1809
Batman x Batmom!Reader
You know what the bat family needs? Someone to pull them together and give them all the love they deserve. Who better to do that than you? An author rising to stardom in Gotham who catches the eye of a billionaire with your standoffish attitude at a huge social gathering. You are yourself and never pretend to be more or less than that. Plus you're the most stubborn person in the world, refusing to let good things go without reason.
This is a rewrite of my story Awesomest of Them All, I wanted to see how much I've improved over 3 years.
"You're breaking up with me?" You say it like a question, offendedly and confused, from your point of view everything was going good, but apparently it wasn't.
"I am. I'm sorry y/n it's not you it's-"
"Nu-uh, Bruce Thomas Fucking Wayne you are not going end things with that cliche line," you say sounding pissed. "I love you and if you want to end things that is fine but you better as hell give me one good fucking reason why.
"But-no-were done y/n," he says, sounding confused as to why you're arguing with him. Why did you have to be so stubborn?! If anything it only made him love you more.
"No we aren't done at least until you give me a good reason. If you're going to end things with me then I deserve to at least know why when as far as I know everything is perfect according to Gotham standards," you cross your arms and pop your hip. This was the first real relationship you'd had in your life and him ending it without warning wasn't something you could handle. You needed to at the very least know why. Why had he invited you over? Why had Dick and Alfred greeted you normally? Just for him to try and end things? It made zero sense.
He looks away from you, with the angry tears in your beautiful eyes. You the first woman he has genuinely fallen head over heels for that he was currently trying to end things with. It was hurting him just as much as it hurt you, but he had a good reason. He didn't want you getting hurt because of his night job.
Both Alfred and Dick had tried to tell him you could handle it, and he knew they were right. You would be able to handle the fact that he was Batman, but he knew he couldn't handle you getting hurt. He knew that was his breaking point.
It's as you're staring at him with the tears beginning to run down your cheeks that he reaches his other breaking point. Seeing you hurting and confused, he couldn't bring himself to lie to your face another time.
"What?" You ask, seeing the slight changes to his posture and expression.
He takes a breath, "I'm trying to keep you safe y/n-"
"You're trying to keep me safe?" You ask your own expression softening. "Bruce," you reach a hand up to cup his cheek as you always had, but he catches it before you can touch him.
"Yes, I can't handle seeing you hurt. Even now, when I know I have good reasons for trying to leave you, I can't bring myself to actually do it because I can see how much it's hurting you even if you're yelling at me," his hand drops yours and comes to cup your cheek, a slight smile coming to his lips.
Your breathing hitches for a moment as he speaks, you can feel how genuine he is being, "Bruce-" actual tears begin to run down your cheeks at his proclamation of love. Your arms wrap around his torso and you lean your head against his chest, "Bruce, my love, that is the opposite of a good reason to break up with me. I hope you realize that."
His deep laugh echos through your ears, and his hand runs through your hair. "I know my dear, I can't do it. I can't bring myself to end things with you. If you had walked out after I tried the first time I would have, but I cannot bring myself to argue with you when I know deep down I'm wrong even if I like to think I'm keeping you safe."
"Well, as sweet as that is I'm glad you at least are acknowledging the fact that you're a dumbass for thinking it might work," you laugh gently and lean back to look at his face. "So, can I know what has you so convinced I'm going to be hurt if I continue my relationship with you?"
The two of you stand in silence for a few minutes just hugging each other before he says, "it'll be better for me t show you, as knowing you if I were to just tell you you would laugh and think I'm joking."
This of course causes you to laugh, "me? Laugh at you? What in the world makes you think I would do that?"
He laughs gently, "I don't know what would make me think that, dear." He doesn't wait for a real answer, instead taking your hand and leading you into the study and up to the beautiful dark colored oak wood grand father clock. He doesn't say anything as he moves the hands on the clock and it opens like a door revealing a staircase. He leads you down, still holding your hand.
You, are of course confused by this, because who the hell has a secret room in their house?! Well, billionaires, that's who. But that still doesn't tell you why he had a secret room. You look to him for an answer but he simply continues leading you down the stairs.
Once you reach the bottom of the stairs you stop, and look around amazed at the vast cave you found you were in. It's dark, and you can't see much so you revert back to default settings and ask, "you have a sex cave?"
He laughs, clearly amused with that question. The fact that he had expected any other reaction just showed him how often you surprised him. "No, y/n," he leads you a little further into the cave before letting go of your hand and saying, "wait here, I'm going to turn the lights on."
You nod, and wait as you hear him move off through the dark. Your mind was reeling, what in the world was this place? Whatever it was, it was important to him and he was trusting you with it.
It's after a few moments that the lights light up the large space. A gasp leaves you as you see on one end of the cave a huge computer screen built into the rock, on the other end a car, helicopter and a whole ass airplane. It's as you slowly turn in a circle that Bruce comes back over to you and catches you in his arms.
You were facing a taxidermy T-Rex as he leans down to softly say in your ear, "I'm Batman."
A chill goes down your spine and you know it's true, not that you could really question it when he has a bat-mobile and T-Rex in his basement. Your hands find their way down to rest on his, "I guess this would be a good reason to break up with me, if you're still wanting too."
He shakes his head, "I love you too much to do that to you. Plus, me telling you defeats the purpose of any of that stupidity," he says, grabbing your waist and pulling you into a deep kiss.
"So, this is why I couldn't spend the night?"
"Yes," he laughs softly and kisses you again as he picks you up. Your legs find their way to lock around his waist, as he carries you over to the chair in front of the computer. He sets you on the desk, kissing you deeply yet again, one of his hands traveling up your shirt to draw circles on your side.
How could he be the worlds greatest detective and also not have guessed that you, the woman he loves would argue with him when he tried to leave you? He had almost made the biggest mistake of his life that day and now all of his emotions were overcoming him, he wanted, needed you close to him.
Sooner than he wants you break the kiss and end the make out session. You gently kiss his lips one time and ask, "so, how much am I allowed to know?" You press another quick kiss to his cheek as you stand up, and say, "I love you."
He doesn't let you move far from him, sitting himself in the desk chair and pulling you into his lap. "Anything you want to know you can," he brushes your hair back from your face and tilts his head to press a kiss to your neck.
"Hey!" You laugh and push his face back from you. "I want you to answer my questions, not try and distract me!" You spin yourself to straddle him, a hand going to rest on his hip, "after questions, then maybe, I'll let you kiss me." You purse your lips in thought, "maybe I'll let you do more than just kiss me, but that depends on if you behave," you tease gently.
He laughs and shakes his head slightly, "alright, I'll restrain myself from kissing you anymore, until you have your questions answered. After that though," that smirk comes to his lips as he suggestively lets his hand go up the back of your shirt to rest on your shoulder blade.
You sigh dramatically, and roll your eyes gently, even if you were excited to see him like this. "Okay, I'll make it fast. Does this mean Dick is Robin? Is that Clark Kent guy actually Superman and that's how Dick knew him? Finally I'd like to formally apologize for doing your job that first time we met when Joker tried to shoot me and I went on autopilot and told him he had lipstick in his teeth."
Bruce laughs, "yes, Dick is Robin. I'm surprised you already put that together with Clark, usually Superman is far away so him wearing glasses works. And, my love, it is more than alright that you did my job for me. I couldn't have done it better myself, though I probably would not have fallen on top of Joker after flipping him," he teases gently and kisses your cheek, "but no, I should have known from that that you can handle yourself."
You smile and press a kiss to his lips, "well, at the very least I'm sorry for insulting you when I did thank you that night."
He laughs again, "y/n, I love every part of you and if I am honest with myself that is the night I started falling for you. You amaze me with your ability to laugh and stand strong in the face of danger, I save people every night and have never seen anyone else react like you."
You push a hand against his chest, "stop, you're making me blush."
He rolls his eyes and laughs at you again, before growing more serious as he looks at you, saying in a low, sexy, voice, "a deals a deal, y/n, I'm going to make you do more than blush tonight."
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comehomeducklings · 3 years ago
Text
Present [Part 4] (Obsession)
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6
Tom Riddle's Moodboard
Main Character's Moodboard
~////////////////𓆙////////////////~
1943 ~ 6th year
“What would be the purpose of a wizard or witch to prepare a Polyjuice potion?” Slughorn asks. “Yes, Mr. Riddle?”
Tom drops his hand from the air, “The potion grants the drinker to take the form of another.”
“Yes! And what would happen if said drinker tried to transform into an animal?”
I know this one so I lift my hand.
“Go ahead.”
I clear my throat, “When the human drinker tries to transform into an animal they would not take its complete form. Only sections of said animal.”
Slughorn nods his head, “Can they reverse after a bit of time like normally?”
“No,” I answered. “It takes an extremely long time to wear off, and you might even have to go to the hospital wing.”
He grins and continues to write on the chalkboard. Even though he can enchant the writer's tool to note down itself, I’m guessing he prefers the old-fashioned way.
Tom and I are even on points. When he answers correctly, I also do right after him. I can see him noting down both our points on the corner of his parchment. The black tally marks standing out. Our points are on my paper as well, just in case he decides to cheat. No chances are being taken today, or tomorrow.
“How long does the potion wear off if made correctly?”
Riddle and I both shoot our hands up. His demeanor is calm and collected while I'm sitting on my feet to have my arm raised higher than his. It’s not very fair that his arms are the length of mine to the third power.
“Mr. Nott, what do you know?”
“A single dose could last from 10 minutes to 12 hours.”
Another question wasted by not getting called on. I don’t mind that much since it doesn't keep me behind. Riddle seems to care a little bit too much. His competitive side is showing and I guess his pal is ruining the race.
Professor stole our textbooks for this pop quiz. The rapid-fire questions should “already be memorized and known,” down to the molecular detail. My knowledge only goes so far.
I trust myself, to a point. There’s definitely going to be a question I get wrong and I’m already dreading it. Every answer that falls out of my mouth is examined and thought over ten times before the action of answering arises.
“For something a little different, Mr. Riddle come to the front of the classroom and write four ingredients that are needed for the potion.”
He stands up and pushes his chair in. His eyes as cold as The Black Lake. While he makes his way toward the board I cross my fingers, hoping he forgets one. I know that’s not the kindest, but nothing with him is necessarily “kind.”
There he goes, writing all four ingredients with ease. His handwriting is beautiful. How does he honestly do that? Does he practice every single day to get it that precise?
Maybe I should practice to improve as well. Honestly embarrassing how bad my handwriting seems next to his. We compared essays once, never again. That was the most embarrassing moment of my life. He just laughed at me and kept pointing out how weird my f’s looked.
I swear my letters weren’t that bad. It’s just that he overachieves everything. Now I rewrite every “f” letter that appears on my homework. Thank you for the new insecurity, Riddle.
“Very good! Very good, your turn,” he points towards me. “Three more ingredients this time.”
While I stand in front of the board, I check out what he has already put down. Lacewig flies, leeches, okay not bad. Knotgrass and the hair of the person the drinker will transform into.
He numbered them so I continued on from that.
5) Boomslang skin
6) Fluxweed
Last one, let's see. We already put Lacewig flies, Knotgrass, hair, the skin, and Fluxweed. I hesitate for a little bit, my brain working at high speed. Anxiety levels are higher than Mount Everest.
7) Powdered Bicorn Horn
There we go, I smile to myself proudly. When I turn back around my eyes meet his. He smirks and nods while he writes down a point for both of us. I’m not sure that it counts for four points, just one.
The questions go on for quite a bit. Our tally marks are piling higher and higher. Each of our count's neck and neck for the top spot.
“What is the brewing time?”
“About a month.”
“How does the potion look before the addition of the final ingredient?”
“Thick like the mud after it pours.”
“It also is bubbling.”
“How does it look after adding the final ingredient?”
“Depends on who the witch or wizard made the potion to look like.”
“Varies in taste and color.”
He seems to be done with questions so Tom and I start counting the marks. On my paper, I seem to be .5 points ahead of him. I quickly look his way to see him come to the same conclusion. He takes a deep breath and casts his eyes to the side. Tom then tilts his quill my way signaling that I did indeed win.
I’m about to squeal quite highly but then I recollect I’m in a classroom. Full of people who are terrified to be anywhere in this castle. That would be quite inappropriate of me so I keep my excitement to myself.
Professor Slughorn wipes the whole board away. Clearing all the information we were learning and reviewing about.
“When I pair you up, each of you will grab the right ingredients for this potion and lay it near the front of your desk,” he says. “It should be laid in the order you would normally use when making the concoction.”
“First up, Miss Horn and Miss Yellowbo.”
The classroom starts to move with life as students pair with one another. Some cheerful noises and annoyed ones from who they ended up with. Most of us here know each other. I don’t think I would mind having anyone in this room as my partner.
“Mr. Riddle and-”
Of course, it’s me. Starting to think the pairings’ on purpose. His face shines too brightly for it not to be well planned out. I make my way to the shelves to start out picking the ingredients.
There’s always a moment where my mind decides to give up on me. Most of the elements are obtained. A few are missing.
I’m going over the variety of bottles containing different substances when I feel a looming pressure on my back. An arm slightly grazes past my ear and picks up Fluxweed.
“How do you manage to forget the very ingredient you wrote down on the board?” Toms whispers right by my ear.
I shift my eyesight to the side to see him already looking at me, “Sorry, I blanked out a little.”
He starts seizing half of the ingredients into his hold. I don’t really mind carrying a couple, but I’m just left with one bottle after he takes most of my possessions.
“Taking all the credit now I see,” I tilt my head as I raise my chin to meet his tall build.
“You were about to spill everything. I’m saving you from embarrassment,” he responds cockily.
I started to argue but he already made his way back to the desk, “Everything was perfectly stable in my arms.”
He continues to ignore me and sets down everything. Including the one bottled ingredient in my hand that he snatched just a few moments ago.
“Nothing is ever perfectly stable with you.”
I’m about to whisper a word no children should hear before Slughorn makes his way to our table. Saving Riddle from my rising annoyance.
“Wonderful! You too got all of them perfectly,” he starts. “I would expect no less from my star students.”
All I do is smile brightly in respect. Trying not to drive any more attention to the outburst of pride he has for us.
“Thank you, professor,” Tom says. He starts picking the ingredients off of the table, still barely letting me take any.
Riddle just walks off while our proffesor continues around the room. When he comes back I just about finish wiping the desk of any accidental spills.
“I won our little game this time,” I nudged his shoulder with my own.
Tom slightly rolls his eyes with a small smile, “I see that you have. Just this one though.”
“And many more to come,” I exclaim.
Our attention seeks back to our teacher, “You’ll all be writing an essay about an imaginary way this potion could go wrong. I expect it to be turned in before class tomorrow.”
I hurry to get my textbook off of my area and head towards the back of the classroom near the doorway.
“Everyone split into two groups. This half will go with Riddle while the other is with me.”
I turn my head once more to look at Tom, he’s reassuring one of the students that they are going to be okay.
I only look for a couple of seconds before leading my half of the group out first. A few stops along the way to make sure perfects are keeping order. Most of my group of students have been dropped off. A couple still lures behind me, I picked them up as I worked my way through the castle halls.
They were also dropped off and now I scatter along the hallway to make sure everyone is where they are supposed to be. Like every other period, the routine stays the same mostly.
My robes have a few wet spots on them still from the tears of younger students attending this school. I fully believe it won’t be too long until the headmaster and the ministry deal with whoever is making our lives miserable here. The murders will surely not go unjustly.
As I am turning a new hallway I happen to meet up with Riddle.
“All good?”
“Of course,” he responds. “Nothing out of the ordinary.”
He seems to look around quite a bit. Like he’s searching for something.
“Head back to your class, I will look around once more.”
That’s the last thing he says before moving around me with his hand on my shoulder. Quickly slipping past me.
~////////////////𓆙////////////////~
“No, no no,” I whisper to myself as I crumple yet another paper in my hand. I throw it on the ground next to me and huff out a breath.
Writing this bloody essay is taking more time than I predicted. It usually comes naturally to me but I can’t seem to write correctly. Every time I make a mistake I have to start over again. My handwriting failing to write neatly for once.
My whole structure and information is already figured out. Writing is what’s taking me the longest. No matter how hard I try, the letters never seem to come out correctly from my quill.
Especially the f’s.
F
f
Infuriating really. I only have an hour left until the library closes. It already technically shut down but the librarian gave me an extra three hours as long as I lock up.
Perks of being Head Girl I suppose.
My head is in my hands as I compose myself. It’s late and I’m tired, it’s not even safe to be out at this time. At least if I happen to die I wouldn’t have to write this essay.
“How long have you been trying at this-” a low voice asks behind me.
I jump in my seat, “Oh it’s just you. Well, it’s been-”
“And failing?” Tom finishes as he takes the seat next to me. The chair turned slightly to me.
I roll my eyes and fall further back into my seat. My head turned upwards, admiring the flying books in the ceiling. Finding their place, their way home.
“Probably an hour and a half,” I sigh. “You’re completely right about how bad my calligraphy is.”
He just nods his head and takes a fresh new sheet from the middle of the table. His quill magically appears from inside his robe. All the papers that have the plans for my essay start to float around his head and workspace. Occasionally glancing up at them from time to time and then going back to writing.
His lips are pursed in concentration, “I write my F’s like this. It’s easier that way and extremely easy to practice and write quickly.”
My head peers over his shoulder as I watch him effortlessly indite.
“You try,” he opens up my fingers that were closing my hand and places a quill in them.
I furrow my eyebrows and start to practice my letters on a separate piece of paper that I originally scrapped. I don’t want to waste paper and there’s no reason to get a fresh new one.
We both work quietly in the night until the last few minutes of opening time. Before I left the room I saw him quickly go far back into the library. I never got to ask him why he arrived here so late.
Never saw the need to.
~////////////////𓆙////////////////~ Taglist:
@empath-bunny
@jinxqsu
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ssa-sugar-tits · 4 years ago
Text
Ten Years (ch. 3)
Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 4
Pairing: Spencer Reid x Reader
Content warnings: hospital, cursing, angst
a/n: i feel like this chapter's a little long, sorry!
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Despite the multiple half-assed orders from Hotch and Rossi, the sincere begging from JJ and Penelope, and the concerned pushes from Emily and Derek, you refuse to leave the hospital until Spencer wakes up. You can't bring yourself to eat or sleep or even stop to breathe knowing something's so terribly wrong with him. For fuck's sake, all he did was hit his head. There is no plausible reason you can think of that he wouldn't have woken up yet. Drenched in your own exhausted tears and practically shaking with worry, there's a harrowing pit in your stomach. You've been waiting 42 hours and counting with no sign of improvement. He has a mild concussion and will need a few stitches where he bled but he "should be fine." They told you over and over again. And Hotch was forced to step in when you had enough of the empty bullshit in the atmosphere.
"If he's fine, why the hell hasn't he woken up? A mild concussion doesn't fucking do this to someone!" It's simple. The doctors don't know. They don't know how to help your husband. All they can do is spew false reassuring lies at you while they do absolutely nothing. More lengthy hours pass and an MRI is ordered. The same unsurprising thing: nothing's wrong with him. But what are they going to do? Send him away unconscious? No, they're just going to stand around pretending they know what they're fucking doing. You jump at the feeling of a cold hand tapping on your shoulder.
"Hey, it's just me." You look up to see Derek with a dreadfully morbid look on his face, one with tones of anger. "Mind if I sit with you?" Nowhere near able to speak, you try to give him an inviting smile but all you do is lift the corner of your quivering lips slightly. He gets the hint, which he probably would have missed had he not known you so well, and sits down beside you. Staring over at your husband, you hear Derek's head thump against the wall. The feelings you both have are of utter uselessness. Sure, there have been worse situations but... there's nothing either of you can do at all. There's no reasoning here. Well, to your knowledge. Spencer is the only one that knows what's going on. And it's ripping him apart. To not know what happened to his beloved mentor or remember any of the precious moments he's had with Y/N. He hasn't been able to watch the team he remains loyal to change and grow. He just woke up one day and was hurled into this shitty situation. He laughs out of despair at his own shortcomings and lack of comprehending what's been done to him. Y/N and Derek's heads both snap up at the unexpected sound, hopeful and desperate for a sign that Spencer's back. No such luck at first but Derek goes to get the nurse while you navigate your way to your husband's side.
"Love, it's me. I don't know if you can hear me. But whatever this is, whatever's stressed you out so much that you're... literally blocking out the entire fucking world... it'll be okay. I love you Spencer and I promise I always will. Please be okay for me." A disappointed sigh leaves you. Honestly, what did you expect? For him to wake up because you said you love him? This isn't a fucking fairytale Y/N. Derek returns with a nurse who confirms it must have been an unconscious movement so no hope there. Propping your head up with your arm, you try to get some rest for the first time since you arrived. After two more sickening hours pass, you're shaken awake by a nurse.
"Yeah?" you yawn before remembering where you are. Blinking rapidly, you open your eyes fully and look up at the nurse.
"Miss, your husband is awake." He directs a smile at you before exiting the room, leaving you to rush over to Spencer who's already sitting up and muttering to himself.
"Hey, how are you feeling?" Tears threaten to fill your eyes when you place a hand on his shoulder and he turns away from your touch.
"I'm fine, th-thank you. Excuse me, doctor?" He waves over the doctor and asks her, "Can I leave now?" She looks a bit startled as if she didn't expect him to want to leave.
"Mr. Reid--"
"Doctor," you correct.
"Ahem, Doctor Reid, our tests have come back fine and healthy but to be frank... We aren't entirely sure why you were unconscious for so long. If you'd like to stay and rest, we'd welcome-- no we strongly suggest that's what you do." You open your mouth to say something but Spencer answers her.
"If I can go then I'd like to now, thanks." It's difficult to process when he's discharged and barely even greets his team that was worried sick. Asking you silently with their sweet glances if he's okay, you can't respond. All you manage to do is bite your lip and shrug before driving him home. Spencer doesn't say a word and the silence is deafening. Incomprehensible even because since when is he this fucking quiet?
"Spence?" You say, not taking your eyes off the road. "Don't you think we should talk about it?"
"Talk about what?"
"What do you fucking think? So much for genius." An exasperated sigh escapes you before you realize you're being harsh. "I'm sorry I don't mean to snap at you. I was just..."
"Stressed?" He offers, sounding awfully sad.
"Yeah. Stressed," you sigh once more. Your worry slips away for a moment and he presses a kiss to your cheek. His lips brush against your face and you swear he lingers as if wanting to say something but he goes back to staring out the window. Once in the apartment, you expect him to want to rest or at least, spend time with his wife who's been going fucking insane the past couple of days but he locks himself in his office. Giving up, you walk to the bedroom and leave him be.
Spencer speedily walks around the room collecting books, paper, a pen, and even a laptop. It's time to figure out what's going on. First, he reads about the BAU. He learns a lot about Emily Prentiss and how Elle and Gideon left the bureau. Another piece of information he finds is that David Rossi has been apart of the team for 8 years. Hotch's wife is dead and Jack-- the baby he met once briefly is now 10 years old, living alone with Hotch. Going through photo albums and keepsakes he discovers, he finds that his relationships really have grown over the years and so have yours. Who would've thought that the emotionless, serious Aaron Hotcher would walk his wife down the aisle? Agent Prentiss, he saw, was your maid of honor and Morgan was his best man. A small child held JJ's hand and with context, he came to the conclusion that she had a child now. And his eyes land on you. He traces a hand over the photo, cherishing a memory he doesn't have. You look perfect in that wedding dress. The viel falls on your head gracefully. Your smile radiates off the page and he can't help not feeling a sense of loss. You two are happy together and he doesn't remember a second of it. Ironic, isn't it? He thinks. Moving on to the why this is happening, he reads heaps of material for hours straight, faster than someone else would be able to, but still feels like he's getting nowhere. All he has to go off of is the date and theories he's found on forums and in old books. Suddenly its too much and he throws a book across the room, wincing at the sharp thud when it hits the wall. Spencer buries his frustrated face in his hands and lets out a long, deep breath. Y/N. Guilt washes over him as he realizes, this isn't any easier for you. You've spent the past 10 years forming a relationship with your Spencer and you woke up to a distant stranger. If he's going to figure this out, he needs to adjust. Adjust to being with you, the team, this new life of his. Just until he figures things out, right? Settling on going to lay with you-- his wife, he reminds himself-- he hears what sounds like muffled sobs. He opens the bathroom door cautiously and his heart drops to his feet at the sight in front of him. You're sitting in the bathtub, half-dressed crying quietly into your knees and running your hands through your hair. Spencer kneels down beside you and wraps him arms around you tightly. You gasp softly and almost pull away but accept the embrace.
"I'm so sorry," he says sincerely against your hair. Your words come out strung together and your tongue twists while you try to explain how you've been feeling this week.
"N-No I just... I'm just worried about you Spence I'm s-so," you bite down on your quivering lip harshly to avoid choking on a sob and continue. "Everything's different a-and it's like it changed overnight. I don't know what the hell I did to fuck things up. Whatever I did, I'm so sorry." You bury your head deeper into your knees, smearing mascara into streamed lines down your cheeks. The guilt he feels smashes his heart into pieces and throws it to his feet. He said he has to adjust, didn't he? He'll start with you. Spencer already loved you, the only different thing now is that you love him too. His voice softens and he whispers into your ear, stroking your hair and intertwining his fingers with locks of it.
"You've done nothing wrong sweetheart," he assures you, surprising himself with a nickname. "I'll call Hotch and we'll take tomorrow off, just the two of us. We'll go on a date like we used to a-and we can do whatever you'd like. Anything, Y/N just let me take care of you. The way you deserve."
When he's finished, your eyes meet his and you hesitate before nodding. No words leave your mouth but it's as if you don't need them to speak. He helps you up and you make your way to the bed you share.
Falling asleep quickly, you melt into dreams of spending time together and starting to get back to normal. Spencer, on the other hand, is overcome with an intimidating shit load of anxiety. This isn't, in a million years, how he thought his first fucking date with Y/N Y/L/N would be. Then again, this type of... situation never even crossed his wildest dreams. Make the best of it, right? Yeah that's it. He'll do his best.
For you.
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boldlyanxious · 4 years ago
Text
Dance 6
Masterlist
Master masterlist
It was fine for Marinette to stay up late socializing and networking. Then she slept in Sunday because she had been working non-stop for a few weeks. But after a late breakfast she checked on her commission list and realized that her distracted time had put her way behind. She needed to get out 3 pieces by the end of the week and one she had barely started. Not to mention the work she would need to do to get herself set up for the upcoming projects and sketches for the newer requests.
Her inbox was also filling with more inquiries after all the cards given out. It wasn't an unmanageable amount but she expected that the number would grow after the weekend ended. She dropped a new notice on her request form to let people know that commissions may be slower than usual for a few weeks. Then she got to work. First she organized herself with a schedule of her current projects and then she began working on the one she was most behind on since she had the rest of the day.
---
Jason didn't know how to define his mood. He wasn't angry but maybe a little sad. He wasn't disappointed but he felt a bit let down. Dick said he was mopey and Jason reacted badly, probably because it felt a little too close to the truth. He didn't expect to feel strongly for someone he just met and he knew she probably couldn't spend all her time with him after just meeting him. But he really wished she could at least text him back. She had mentioned an office job with Monday to Friday schedule so he hoped she would be available today. He didn't want to message her repeatedly because that seemed like a good way to make sure she never wanted to respond.
They went around Paris visiting touristy spots and being documented by everyone who recognised the 4 men. Tim wanted to go to the zoo but Jason already felt like they were in a zoo only all the people were watching them. They ended up going to Bois de Vincennes which was vast and found ways to appeal to all of them. After they left they were walking along headed back in the direction of their hotel listening to Dick complain about how hungry he was. Suddenly he was chasing down a random couple demanding to know more about their treats.
He got directions to the place the couple recommended and he led the way. Jason didn't think too much of it until the street they turned in looked very familiar. He could see the building Marinette had dubbed 'the best patisserie in Paris' looming down the street.
"We should find somewhere else to go. I'm hungry for more than a cookie." Jason said.
"No, it's right there and it is said to be the best patisserie in Paris. We have to try it." Dick said.
"It's gonna take us an hour to pick a restaurant anyway. We might as well decide while eating macarons." Tim said.
They walked in and Jason breathed a sigh when the person behind the counter was not one of Marinette's parents. Maybe he lucked out and his family would not be involved in every detail of his life. The young man behind the counter greeted them as they walked in and they could all see when his smile changed from casual greeting to recognition. He played it off well but when they said they would need a moment to look over the menu he rushed to the back briefly before returning with a smile.
A smiling Chinese woman entered from the back and greeted them shocking them all when she greeted Jason by name. "Welcome back Jason. It is lovely to see you again."
"Hello Sabine. It is wonderful to see you too." Jason replied.
Three pairs of eyes turned and stared at him for a moment before Bruce turned and introduced himself. They ordered and Sabine wrapped their selections. Jason knew there would be questions once they were away from the counter. But they would have been manageable until Tom came out and greeted him too.
"Jason, you are back. I know you seemed like a man who could not accept defeat." Tom said with a smile. Introductions were made and a few minutes of small talk before the Wayne men decided to move on, getting a recommendation for a restaurant that was less known but exceptional.
Jason halted his steps when bursting in through the front door he saw the most beautiful disaster. He wasn't sure what she had done to hold her hair up hours ago but it was failing spectacularly with more of the dark hair falling out that being held back. The line between lounge wear and pajamas could have put the stripes on her soft pants that didn't quite match her tank top. She went right past then without seeing, directly to her parents.
"Maman. Papa. Feed me. I have no food, not even ingredients." She walked right up to her dad and collapsed into a hug putting more weight on him than on her own legs.
"Of course, Dear. Did you work all day and not charge your phone? Alya keeps calling."
Marinette nodded against her father. She turned at the sound of a throat clearing to see Jason smirking at her. At first she smiled when she saw him and then she remembered that she dressed for comfort, not style and that she hadn't gotten around to fixing her hair. Her eyes widened and her hand went to her cascading hairdo.
"Hey," she said. Her smile was smaller and more uncertain than the original one she offered. She tucked her hair behind her ears and tried to smooth out her tank top, hoping it didn't have anything on it.
"My day just improved significantly. At least it did if you were intending to text me back. Otherwise I probably look like a stalker."
"My phone is currently only functioning as a paperweight." She held up the device as she spoke.
"She does this every time she has a big event to prepare for. She works too hard and then when it ends she stresses about how far behind she is on other projects without stopping for a break." Tom explained.
"She probably needs someone to whisk her away and remind her how to have a good time."
"Maman!"
"Where do I sign up?" Jason asked without missing a beat.
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senju-sekhmet · 4 years ago
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The Leash (Part 8)
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Summary: Your rescue was supposed to be as smooth as these missions can be. However very quickly, Tobirama faces off against an enemy that has no form, color or smell - and time is running short, very fast. Unless he figures out what truly holds you hostage, your life will be lost. Warnings (for the finished work): Blood, illness, descriptions of heavy injuries and graphic violence, torture (both depicted and implied), needles, morally grey territory, human experimentation, panic attacks, character death, angst with a happy ending ~6200 words (this chapter, finished work: 80.000) Previous: Part 1; Part 2; Part 3; Part 4; Part 5; Part 6; Part 7 Read on AO3!   Disclaimer below the cut! Updated again, yAAAY!!
DISCLAIMER! Next part of the split! a bit longer. and not as soon as I hoped, gosh dangerit. But! Hopefully I’ll get the next one out a lot quicker. This chapter is a little bit special as I tried to incorporate something of a real intensive care take into what is happening as well as my own... ideas about how they'd deal with it all. Let me know what you think! Other than that: enjoy my very self indulgent work, filled with my own headcanons and angst galore. Let me know what you think and thank you so much for reading!!!! ______ It took him a moment to get his bearings again. Hashirama’s back was turned towards him, he was sitting in a chair by your side. The setting sun’s red light illuminated the room in warm hues Tobirama might have appreciated were it not for the sheer sense of dread he felt budding inside of him. The dreary exhaustion was swept away as he stepped closer slowly. Peripherally he picked up a weak pulse of chakra with sensor skills - nothing uncommon for him if he came close enough to a source. Usually he had to actively tap into his sensory skills in order to pick anything up, but if the signal was strong enough, it almost forced itself upon him. Right now, it most likely was your body. As Tobirama rounded the bed he saw your face: pale - paler than before, he was sure - and sweaty. You were taking shallow, hushed breaths while the odd whimper escaped your lips every now and then. Truth be told, Tobirama only remembered you trashing and writhing the last time the withdrawal had set in - now, you simply squirmed, sometimes.
Your expression was far from peaceful though. It was a grimace of sheer pain. Jaw taut, a frown etched onto your forehead and the eyes so tightly, your skin was in wrinkles.
Hashirama was holding your hand, his eyes were closed. An epitome of calmness next to your misery. Tobirama didn’t want to disturb his concentration lest he’d cause you even more torment so for a moment, he stood by the other side of the bed, helplessly witnessing your suffering. The dread had become the painfully familiar constriction of his chest again, every beat of his heart stabbed as he could only let his shoulders hang low.
It was wrong. He should never have agreed to let you suffer like this. The promise you had him make was a hollow echo in his ears. You probably wouldn’t want him to berate himself like this. But how couldn’t he? How couldn't he, when this was the result of the decision? Of course, the cruel logic behind this was clear to him - painfully so.
But if these past few days had been anything but logical every so often.
Hashirama cleared his throat, slowly. “Tobirama,” he greeted, quietly. He didn’t open his eyes.
Tobirama jumped at the opportunity. “How is she?”, he demanded swiftly, keeping his voice low but making no effort to stow back on the urgency.
Hashirama didn’t respond directly, which only served to irritate Tobirama slightly. “It’s difficult,” he began finally, “Initially we were able to stave off the brunt of the withdrawal by sealing her chakra away,” Tobirama’s blood near froze in his veins, his eyes widened slightly, ���But it’s been picking up since. Her blood pressure has been dropping and I’ve been noticing signs of inflammation primarily along her blood vessels but also the heart and lungs." He paused momentarily, uttering a hum of ponder. "The reaction overall is similar to sepsis at this point. Likely the body trying to clear out the leash physically now that her chakra can't interact with it anymore.”
Tobirama couldn’t help himself now. He had to know - to see - with a fine tremor in his hand and a raspy breath he took a step closer to grasp the blanket that covered you and pull it lower, very slowly. As lightly as he could. You stirred as the cloth moved, a feeble shudder of your weak body, but no more. On your chest he could already make out the ink markings of the chakra seal on your bare chest. The sight stole alone his breath momentarily. He violently swallowed down the lump in his throat.
He had believed seeing you weak, tortured, a shadow of your former self - that was one of the worst parts about all of this - he had been wrong.
This. This was worse. It all painted a new horrible picture for what it implied.
There were more seals on your glistening skin - both of your arms and your heart, each of them with a parchment in their center that had been soaked in herbs whose smell each he knew well. Tobirama recognized these: one was stabilising your cardiovascular system both through the seal’s effect itself but also by letting the herbal agent be applied transdermally. The fact you already bore it - the Ione on your heart to make it pump stronger - was a grim sign. The other two were strong pain and sedation medications. Were anyone other than his brother here, he’d probably have refused to wait any longer with the next dose.
He pulled the blanket back up again and crossed his arms in front of his chest as if that helped to reinforce his broken, guilty resolve about all this. “Tell me more,” he requested firmly, eyes never leaving your gaunt face now. This is the only way, he kept telling himself.
“Mito and I drew the chakra seal. It is temporary and can be opened and closed, I’ll show you later. When Y/n gets the next dose and is in her lucid phase, we can open it again for her comfort,” Hashirama consoled quickly. Whether or not he had taken note of what Tobirama had done, he didn’t care right now. It was a slight relief. Maybe you hadn’t felt any of it. Maybe.
“She’s rather still, anija,” Tobirama whispered, now with more worry and firmness. "You sedated her?"
His brother hummed affirmatively. “We … were forced to, indeed.” The hesitance was clear in his tone.
“I see.” Tobirama’s in turn was grave. His next question he blurted out before he was even sure whether he wanted to know the answer. Who was he kidding? Of course he did. “I surmise otherwise, she wouldn’t be still enough to be monitored like this,” to put it lightly. He didn’t have the stomach right now to utter: Otherwise you’d be screaming from the top of your lungs and writhing like you were on fire.
Just like the last time you had been in withdrawal.
Just like the prisoners had explained.
Hashirama appeared to be grateful for Tobirama’s rare show of more neutral words. “You are correct.” The admission didn’t hurt any less for it.
“What about the other seals?” Tobirama demanded then, though of course Hashirama would know that Tobirama was aware of what they did. What he really wanted to know was how bad off you were. For all Tobirama knew, you might be carrying more of those already.
“I was forced to draw these a bit ago as the physical symptoms started to kick in worse again,” he replied evenly. “I first tried oral medication, but the effect was too weak. And administering it was ineffective.”
By ineffective, he meant impossible. You probably quite violently refused anything. Tobirama’s eyes widened slightly at the implication though. It meant your condition was worse enough that without these seals - the seal on your heart to support your cardiovascular system, really - you’d most likely be teetering on the brink of death than life. His hands bunched the fabric of his black shirt. “Exactly how much support does she need right now?” he demanded now, still not daring to step closer.
Hashirama gave a low sigh, but still did not open his eyes nor move his hand from yours. “It’s bearable. Due to the seal, the disruption is impairing her dormant chakra only, but it is not fighting back of course. The symptoms are being caused by her body’s physical reaction which we’re controlling with the medication and the other seals, for now. I’m simply monitoring. It’s just the three seals, Tobirama.”
He was not calmed down at all. “Still, you’ve already been forced to draw this to improve her cardiovascular situation.” Tobirama stated flatly, the neutral kindness gone. He started to paint a pretty dismal picture of your situation without even having examined you already.
Hashirama noticed, too. “And we can still increase the support of these seals. The fever is being kept in check, and while I admit her body is reacting physically, for now it is mostly symptomatic of the withdrawal rather than an actual damaging inflammatory reaction. I’d wager we even have a little bit more time before we have to give her the next dose of the leash.”
It should have served to put him at ease. And yet - “As if that should be our only concern,” Tobirama shot back, voice suddenly caustic. Your pained grimace was testament to the fact you were walking through hell once more and here he was, deliberating how long he could prolong it.
His stomach roiled as his breathing became jittery again. He had to close his eyes lest his brother witnessed his possibly glistening eyes; or at the very least the obvious pain in his glance. It wasn't as though he wanted to hide it - he just needed to be alone with it.
Hashirama was a very understanding person, after all.
And because of that he picked up on it nonetheless. “Y/n wanted this, brother.” It was all he said. Tobirama didn’t want to hear anything, anyway. There was nothing anyone could say about all of this.
Another concern hit him then, distancing himself quickly from the biting cynicism that rose up inside of him. “What about the amount of chakra overload? The seals will aggravate that,” he subconsciously stepped closer, more and more wishing to just see for himself how you really fared. Nonetheless his tone was demanding again.
“That is correct,” Hashirama agreed quickly, but calmly. “And I won’t lie, we are pushing the limit here. But given our options, it is the safest route. It is manageable right now however.”
Tobirama frowned and wondered if he truly did agree with that statement. Following blindly - even his brother’s no doubt superior medical expertise - just wasn’t in him. Especially when it concerned you. “Overload symptoms would be similar to what she is experiencing now, though," he countered tersely.
Hashirama inhaled deeply. “Which is why we’ll need to continue to watch carefully, even after she gets the dose. It’s not a perfect solution, but so far it’s working. If it happens to become too intense, then we know to cut the interval shorter again to lessen the needed seals.”
The words caused a sudden surge of ire through his dismal demeanor. All of this sounded more like experimentation rather than a real course of action. Not that his brother could know any better, but it still didn’t make him appreciate it any more. He forcibly took deep breaths in order to not snap again, but the ire was a welcome distraction from the utter despair that had taken over.
Hashirama opened his eyes then finally and his dark eyes gave him a warm glance. Tobirama instantly frowned, concerned it may hamper with his focus - but before he could speak, his brother did. “Take a seat, look for yourself. I know you want to.”
He didn’t have to say it twice. Tobirama grabbed one of the chairs swiftly and placed it on the other side of your bed, taking a seat then. Gingerly, he took your hand in his and closed his eyes to let his chakra meet your network and begin to examine you.
It was a mess. The first thing he noticed was the complete absence of a chakra flow - it was frozen in its tracks. And while before there certainly had been the many injuries you had yet to properly recover from, now there was a war raging in your body. Manageable. That was the word Hashirama had used. Tobirama himself would not go beyond that, if even. There was hardly a part of yourself not affected by all this; anywhere he looked he found signs of inflammation, microscopic injury in the tissue that was attacked, torn down and at the same time, rebuilt. The picture was similar to sepsis, as his brother had said indeed: your own body’s reaction to the leash was, ultimately, killing you. The leash itself seemed to cause damage on its own, but it was minor compared to the damages your own body was doing to yourself by trying to fend it off. At this point it was just a matter of time until that got too bad. After all, it already had begun to cause a capillary leak on a scale that required outward support to keep your blood pressure up. Your heart rate was elevated for compensation, and your organs each showed signs of damage due to said leak as well as the inflammation itself.
His focus needed to be extremely sharp to even make out traces of the leash in the rush of your frantically beating heart - intense scrutiny that surely wouldn’t go unnoticed by you. He withdrew quickly. Tobirama knew the leash would be latched - branded, almost - to your blood at this point. That easily explained why no part of your body was spared - just like in a real sepsis. Though he noticed the heart and lungs seemed to be affected more, too, as Hashirama had mentioned - examining them closer, he found the reaction here was particularly bad. Your lungs, as the extremely thin tissue of the alveoles were extremely affected by this - again, just like in sepsis. It was a matter of time until breathing problems would ensure. Your heart, as it strained to fight for a stable blood pressure while being inadequately perfused, suffering tissue damage on a microscopic scale, for now. At the very least, this might affect you immediately - but Tobirama found none of these damages couldn’t be healed, either.
Just not now.
Frankly, he hadn’t expected to feel better after this, exactly. However to witness the battle that was going on inside of you - one you were losing, ultimately, always - it added a new dimension to the sorrow and heartache he was feeling. Even though right now he felt the hum of the seals that had been painted on you and their effects - strengthening you - he felt nothing but helplessness to bear witness to your suffer firsthand and do nothing but to figure out how to prolong it. It didn’t just hurt his heart - it wrenched it around, tore at it. He didn’t want to do this.
Promise me.
He had promised you.
With a broken sigh, he withdrew and slumped back in the chair, eyes on your gaunt, pained face. His vision was blurry.
“Tobirama,” Hashirama’s voice startled him. With this dismal sight and the lingering extortion from his shadow clone stunt, which his body certainly had not forgotten, concentration was becoming touch and go as his thoughts circled in dark places. “The sedative will begin to wear off, soon. For the next dose, I’d rather she be more awake to ensure she can swallow it properly.”
Tobirama closed his eyes and already knew how this would go down. Another one for the list of things he’ll have a hard time forgiving himself. But he had to. He had to. Slowly, he rubbed a palm over his face. “Very well,” he replied, seeing reason in this too, of course.
They sat in silence for another two hours, almost. During the time, your writhing had picked up slowly - from a flex of your legs’ or arms’ muscles to weak movement. Slowly but surely sounds were picking up too - huffs or grunts at first, but later on there were quiet groans and incoherent mumbles mixed in. You never opened your eyes. Hashirama ended up increasing the heart’s seal’s intensity somewhat, all of which Tobirama watched while he monitored you diligently. He felt absolutely crushed in every sense - physically, emotionally, mentally. But sleep never came to his mind. The least he could do was be here with you, even if you might not notice it. But if anything were to happen - he’d be here. He’d sleep when you did. A little. And then continue to work once his condition allowed it again.
“It’s time,” Hashirama announced finally. “Her blood pressure has been sinking continuously and the damage that is caused by the withdrawal ultimately is becoming too intense now. I don’t want to push her beyond this.”
What a relief. Tobirama already had procured the next dose of the leash previously. Administering it now wouldn’t be as simple as the last times, however. With a heavy sigh, he rose to his feet, as did Hashirama.
“Y/n,” Tobirama spoke softly, placing a hand on your shoulder. “Can you hear me?” It was worth a try. Though he had little hope for it.
And he was right. Your reaction was lackluster, only a low groan as your head trashed to the other side.
“I’ll open her jaw,” Tobirama instructed his brother, numb now. Devoid of any emotion but to simply do this swiftly. “Hold her head.” Hashirama nodded and already seized each side of it with his hands, which you responded to by uttering yet another tormented moan.
Tobirama’s heart was hammering in his chest again - at this point he had just waited for that to happen, and his breathing was nearly as raspy as yours when he took another step closer to seize your jaw in the dreadfully familiar way again. Once more utter horror overcame him for having to do this to you. It grew worse when he felt how you were trying to trash your head to the side, but your movement was pitiful at best. “It’ll be better soon, Y/n, I promise,” he whispered brokenly, though he knew you couldn’t hear him.
Tobirama was tormented by how easy, compared to last time, the pressure behind your mandibular bone made it protrude, enabling him to shift the grip slightly to force your mouth more open with his thumb on your chin. A shiver ran down his spine. The hand that held the vial containing the leash shook slightly. You protested louder in what definitely was an even more painful groan, a sweaty, trembling hand reaching for Tobirama’s on your jaw. “Don’t,” he pleaded instantly, desperately.
Don’t make it worse.
Swiftly, he poured the leash into your mouth and shut it quickly before you had a chance to cough it back up. With pressure on your cricoid, the constriction of your airway was forcing you to swallow it before the breathing trouble became too uncomfortable. It was brutal, Tobirama knew. But it was the safest way to ensure you really drank all of this. Immediately, he and Hashirama withdrew from you.
You stilled completely.
Time for the next act of this nightmare, whose end was approaching way too fast and yet not fast enough.
_______
As per usual, Tobirama ensured you’d sleep for the terrible psychotropic effects of the drug. However Hashirama noted it was better to use a sedative this time, as they needed to avoid any use of chakra on your strained body for now. He agreed reluctantly - by this point he knew it couldn’t interfere with the leash’s effect, in any way. Besides, Hashirama also stated he needed to monitor you further - especially watch for signs of chakra overload as well as controlling the seals. Likely, your cardiovascular situation will improve enough to be stable on your own.
Tobirama nearly shouted at his brother when he used the word ‘likely’. If he thought it was just likely then they had gone too far. And just as likely Tobirama felt like smacking his brother for sheer stupidity right then. He didn’t of course, ultimately and begrudgingly yielded to his brother's expertise. However it didn't stop him from sternly reminding him about how fragile and susceptible your mind was due to every sensation heightened -
"Be careful," he warned, rather, threatened. "Do not agonize her unnecessarily."
Hashirama rolled his eyes. "I'm doing what I have to. No more and no less, brother." Despite everything, he remained calm.
It provided little comfort, but he saw no option but to add it to the list of necessary things they had to do to you. Tobirama’s frustration was palpable at this point.
Nonetheless, all of this just showed it was time to rest, as much as he hated it. Sleep was inconvenient, but needed alas. And once more he found himself at your shared home, alone. Luckily enough, the exhaustion was great enough to claim him quickly after he had laid down, but the forlorn feeling was seeping through every crack. With every passing day, this house felt colder and lonelier. The burden he carried strained him to a point where numbness was spreading inside of him. He felt spent, at the end of his wits. His sleep was dead, dreamless.
And a little longer than he wanted it to be. He woke again with a startle - his gaze sought out the clock mounted on the wall right away. It was somewhat past midnight. Damn. You should be awake by now. He rubbed a hand over his face to wipe away the last traces of sleep before he washed himself, got dressed and teleported to your room right away.
_______
The withdrawal was one of the worst things you had ever gone through. It easily was on par with some of the torture you had suffered.
It had begun as you remembered it - you became weaker with each passing minute. Then came the dizziness. Your consciousness slipped in and out. An ache settled into your bones, your muscles, your nerves, that was all too familiar - dim, at first, but it increased more and more. It wasn’t long before it felt like molten lava rolled through your veins, alongside your nerves, through your lungs with every breath you took - you were being burned out from the inside slowly, cruelly. Split apart and yet not dying.
You wanted to scream. You wanted to writhe away, shake it off, rip your skin off, do anything - but you couldn’t. Something held you suspended in darkness with proverbial chains winding around you tightly, everything else was black nothingness. Nobody to hear your screams, nobody aware of your agony - all by yourself in a hell that wasn’t ending. At first, you were trying to tell yourself this was what you wanted: you had to give Tobirama - yourself - more time. Otherwise they’d run out of this damn murder drug before they could recreate it. But this? This wasn’t worth living, was it?
Had the chains around you not seized your throat, you’d have begged for someone to kill you. End your misery.
I’m sorry, Tobirama.
Forgive me.
You circled around these two sentences over and over again while the torture wasn’t ending.
Peripherally, you had been aware - at first, when the withdrawal had begun to set in - of someone’s chakra inside of you - Hashirama, you realised, dimly. It had made sense. Tobirama would need to work. Try as much as you wanted to, but you couldn’t work around the dizziness and the pain that had been roaring through your systems at that point already. And just as lightly you realised something was done to you - but no more you could distinguish what it was. It eased the pain, somewhat. Briefly. You wanted to thank him yet couldn’t form words; either it was exhaustion or another side effect of the withdrawal. Were it not for your dreary state you knew you’d be overrun by panic due to the helplessness. You simply had to trust those around you.
But that had gone out of the window piece by piece as the symptoms became worse and worse. You felt your grip on yourself losing as pain became your only reality.
Suddenly though, it was all over. The pain was gone as though it had never existed. You nearly screamed in joy.
And another terribly familiar sensation kicked in.
The nightmares.
They had given you the next dose of the leash - you had lived, you dimly realised. Part of you wanted to cheer, but of course you wouldn’t get to do that. With all you had just gone through, this time around, the bizarre horror trips you suffered from during the first phase of the leash would gladly take inspiration from now.
But the usually crystal clear scenarios were muddled images at best - red hot iron being pressed into your flesh agonisingly slowly. Darkness, loneliness. It still was frightening - but not as precise as it usually was. Perhaps the leash had done permanent damage to your brain. Who knew. In a twisted, grotesque way you were thankful.
Your perception of pain had become extremely skewed.
Someone else was lingering, though. A presence. They were watching you - you knew - and you didn’t like it. Nothing came from them, but you knew better than that. Presences like this greatly unnerved you. It couldn’t mean anything good.
Soon, you, the nightmares, everything - faded into dull sensations only. After that, a warm nothingness overtook you and you finally were allowed to sleep.
When you opened your eyes again, the room was dimly lit by the nightstand’s lamp. Someone was touching your hand - you turned your head slightly to find Hashirama next to you. Still, you had blink several times before you truly recognized him; truth be told you felt like a giant rock had rolled over you. Distantly you were aware of the fact he was monitoring you - his chakra was but a shadow in your system, so light, almost unnoticeable. Something else was bothering you though - but you couldn’t put your finger on it. Missing - something was missing. Quickly, you realised what it was: your chakra. You couldn’t feel your chakra at all - the sluggish, tardy sensation it had become was gone.
Instantly, panic settled in and your breathing picked up. “I- I can’t,” you began, voice raspy. Moving your jaw was as though you had to force it through jelly or something equally gooey, the muscle wouldn’t quite obey you. But that didn’t matter. Your chakra - where was your chakra? You wanted to get up, but your arms wouldn’t obey you - your pulse picked up rapidly and breathing was getting difficult again.
Hashirama shook his head, “We had to seal it off, don’t worry,” he explained swiftly, already pulling the blanket down with his free hand. In utter horror you noticed there were seals drawn not just on your chest but your arms as well. Your heartbeat was through the roof by now as your panicked gaze kept looking everywhere. He put his thumb, index and middle finger right on your sternum where the center of what you recognized belatedly was a rather complex chakra seal was located. His fingertips glowed for a moment, then he twisted his wrist.
A second later, your beloved, useless chakra was back.
You gulped and swallowed past the lump in your throat, trying to even out your breaths again. He put the blanket back over you again and regarded you with a smile, though you could easily tell his warm gaze was burdened with worry. Unlike Tobirama, Hashirama wore his moods on his sleeve. “How are you feeling?”
You blinked a couple times again, still reeling from the sudden burst of panic. Then, after a deep breath, “I’ve… been better.” To put it lightly.
He frowned sympathetically. “No doubt about it.”
You didn’t want to wait any longer. “How long… how long did we gain?”, you desperately hoped this exercise had been worth something. At all.
His smile became more mirthful. “Six hours.”
Your eyes widened slightly. Frankly, you were unsure if you should be happy or horrified by that. To you, it had felt like an eternity. And yet six hours was a huge gain on what the interval had been before. A good result. The suffering - had been worth something. Your gaze wandered to the ceiling, nodding to yourself slowly. Trying to convince yourself of this at least.
“Y/n,” Hashirama began again, now more somberly. “I won’t lie to you. I don’t know how long we can keep this up. It took a toll on you, which I am sure you are feeling right now.”
“You can say that again,” you croaked weakly, yet again testing the movement in your legs. Your toes wiggled a little. It was an achievement. Then you sighed and in what pretty much was a snap decision, you spoke up again. “Promise not to tell Tobirama,” you muttered, already feeling guilt taking a stab at your heart.
Hashirama’s frown deepened. “Promise.”
“The withdrawal is… All of this - it’s about one of the worst things I’ve ever gone through.” you shared, no more than a mere, haunted whisper. You couldn’t look at Hashirama. “And by now, I think I’ve experienced a lot.”
Hashirama hummed deeply.
“I don’t want Tobirama to know that. He will refuse to keep stretching the interval, b-but-”
“You wanted to say it.” Hashirama finished your sentence before your voice broke. “It’s alright.” He squeezed your hand lightly. “I’d wager he knows, truth be told.”
A sob broke past your tightly squeezed lips, but you nodded. Of course he’d know. You couldn’t imagine him not checking in while all of it had happened. Most likely some of your plight had gone through to the outside. And the first withdrawal had been a harrowing experience for all of them.
“You’re stable, though,” he spoke up again in a less grieved tone. “It’s no surprise you’re feeling rather weak right now. The withdrawal is quite… violent towards the body.”
“So long as it’s worth… as it’s worth all this,” you gulped, nodding. To yourself, mostly.
Hashirama smiled warmly again. “The time gained is invaluable. I’m afraid we can’t do much to heal you, yet, though.”
Just as you wanted to reply you witnessed a flicker in the shadows near the door. That had stopped startling you a long time ago - well, when you weren’t in the middle of a breakdown, that is. You couldn’t help but smile with how Tobirama lurched over instantly. His white hair was tousled, glistening even - he must've fallen out of bed into the bathroom and then teleported right over. A quaint sight - the man was punctual, sharp and kept in perfect shape.
Hashirama regarded him with raised eyebrows as he stood by the other side of your bed, mustering you through narrowly-lidded eyes with a distressed expression. He already took a breath to speak up, but you beat him to it with a quip that’d surely answer his question. “That’s fine Hashirama, I won’t be able to get up either way and Tobirama won’t need to lecture me about moving too much anymore.”
Tobirama shut his mouth immediately and scrunched his face like he had just been forced to drink some extremely bitter tea and regarded you with a look as if you had been the one to make said tea. Already, he crossed his arms. For a hot second, you worried you had gone too far - doing this in a high stress situation like this always carried a risk. But Tobirama knew you. And you knew him.
“You’re doing better.” He simply stated then, unimpressed, just raising an eyebrow.
Hashirama raised his arm to hide his face with his sleeve slightly as a chuckle shook him.
Tobirama’s hawk-like stare shot to his brother briefly before it settled back on you. “Enlighten me with some context, maybe?”, he then demanded, only slightly exasperated. He was holding back, you knew.
“I just explained the toll the withdrawal has taken on Y/n to her,” Hashirama supplied, having regained his composure again.
Tobirama regarded him with a concerned look then instantly, dropping the unnerved demeanour. “Toll?”
“Exhaustion mostly, Tobirama,” you decided to intervene before he worked himself up more. The way he gripped his black shirt again was telltale. “I can’t do more than wiggle my toes. And my fingers, maybe.” You tentatively tried it out - they stretched just fine. “What a relief,” you murmured ironically.
Tobirama’s frown grew softer again as he watched you test your limits and the corners of his mouth turned down slightly. “Y/n,” he whispered, and you could feel how much more he wanted to say.
Hashirama cleared his throat again. “We’ve painted four seals on you, in total,” he spoke up again, catching your attention immediately as he then explained how they strengthened your heart and blood pressure. “Now that you’re awake again I’ve brought down the support from them to a very low level because you’re doing so well. The exhaustion is from the immediate reaction mostly. I won’t deny, you did suffer damages there - but none of them great enough to warrant additional concern.” His gaze wandered to his brother while he spoke, well aware he was listening just as intently. If not more. Tobirama’s frown had deepened again.
You nodded. Medical jutsu were really not your forte, but you did know quite a handful of seals and could already guess as to how these worked. Which also told you they had been scraping the proverbial barrel here: normally, these things would be easily managed using chakra based methods, normally. “I surmise you’re using seals because I’m constantly teetering on the edge of chakra overload still with how I keep getting additional… problems…”
Tobirama snorted. “Some of which you wouldn’t have if you rested.” Hashirama chuckled again, this time at your expense. You took it in stride. Tobirama continued then. “You’re right though. We must avoid it as much as possible.” Hashirama nodded to that.
“Ultimately, should your condition worsen during withdrawal, we’ll have to overstep that boundary. But I’m very much trying to avoid it. It’s additional stress you don’t need right now.” He did sound quite serious about it. You gulped. Chakra overload was nothing to sneeze at.
But then again you felt like you had just about dipped into every kind of torment available as of now. What’s one more?
Hashirama ended his monitoring then and gently slipped away, both inwardly and outwardly. “I’ll get some rest now. You’re stable. And while I know Tobirama is very, ah, adamant about this-”
“Anija,” the growl came instantly.
“-you really need to get as much rest as you can. We’ll see to support you more using any non-chakra based means which is going to entail some medications. I’ll… see you soon again,” he finished with a sorrowful smile that managed to soothe you and at the same time filled you with dread.
You swallowed. “Thank you, Hashirama.”
He nodded and left the room quietly.
Tobirama sat down on the side of your bed as soon as he had shut the door, taking your hand in his and stroking your skin gently with his thumb. “How are you really doing, Y/n?”, he inquired, the timbre of his voice gentle enough to let his concern truly show.
You gave him a brave smile. “I’ll manage, Tobi,” that, you knew. You knew you had to. Though you felt like breaking into tears when you said it.
You didn’t fool him for one second. His breath caught momentarily; his grip became firmer and you felt his chakra graze over your network, covering it warmly. You couldn’t help but sigh contently when he did; the sensation never failed to comfort you. But his expression remained distraught, to say the least. He knew you well enough - what your avoidant answer meant. It was kindness not to inquire further. And maybe protection, too. You didn’t want to speak more about this. Or think of it.
It’d come around again soon enough.
“You’re not taking good care of yourself,” you chided then softly. “I’d ruffle your obviously wet hair, but I can’t right now.” You cracked a weak smile.
He clicked his tongue. “It’s been a pretty intense day, Y/n,” he countered evenly.
“I think I can count the days you left the house in such a hurry on one hand, Tobi,” you replied, not bothering to keep the sorrow down any longer. It saddened you to see how all this took its toll on him - your problems, your condition. Of course you’d do the same for him in a heartbeat - and just as well, you were aware what your sight made him feel. But it just hurt.
His eyebrow arched up again slowly. “When I’ve got such urgent business to tend to, I will run the risk of being seen with wet hair, but I’ll face it bravely,” he countered sarcastically, eliciting a little chuckle from you. There was no changing his mind anyway. His lips drew into a lopsided smile of his own, too.
Finally, you sighed quietly. “Don’t let me keep you, then.” You dreaded being alone. But it couldn’t be helped.
His smile faded and his eyebrows furrowed again. “I can stay, Y/n.”
“No, you can’t,” you replied with more resolve, “Because then all the time we gained won’t matter. Soon. Just a bit longer.” You weren’t sure if you were telling him or yourself that.
He must’ve picked up on it, because his other hand grasped your arm too and stroked over your skin gently while his gaze had turned decidedly sorrowful. “I’ll be back soon to check on you,” he promised quietly, but you could guess on the fierceness behind that. It eased your budding sense of dread, somewhat.
“Thank you,” you whispered, “Can you…,” you swallowed, blinking. The request made you feel so silly - shameful, even. But you couldn’t help it.
He tilted his head when you didn’t finish your sentence. “Yes…?”
“Can you please leave the light on? And… don’t close the curtains,” you finally whimpered meekly, avoiding eye-contact now. This alone was a confession to what you could only perceive as weakness due to your recent trauma, but you couldn’t deny how much you needed it right now.
Tobirama’s mien turned more sorrowful, but he nodded. “Of course, Y/n.” He sat on the side of the bed a moment longer and simply shared your connection - a gesture you were immeasurably grateful for. It was you who ultimately nodded and decided it was time he left - despite the ungodly hour.
“C’mon, then.” You tried another brave smile. _____ author’s notes: Some explanations: 'cardiovascular' means pertaining to the heart and the blood vessels, i.e. blood pressure and essentially keeping the body's organs supplied with nutrients, and more immediately important, oxygen. 'sepsis' is a real thing! it's when the body's own immune system causes such a strong reaction in the whole body to an infection it starts to damage its own organs. since reader isn't infected, it's 'like' sepsis. there are also real life complications of different diseases that can, in fact, cause a sepsis-like condition! 'capillary leak' is something that ties in directly to sepsis. because of the body's immune response, the blood vessels start to 'leak' fluids into surrounding tissue. every had an infected  body part? splinter in your toe, hand? got red, big, swollen? well, that's the same thing. it's not good when the body does it everywhere! but it does make sense because by 'opening' the capillaries, the white blood cells can get out and do their job in the tissue. hooo boy, that was a lot more than i ever thought i'd explain, oopz. thank you so much for reading as always!!!
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raven-at-the-writing-desk · 4 years ago
Text
Diary of the Writing Raven; Birds of a Feather
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For the 1100+ follower milestone, here is the next part of the cursed raven’s story!
This time, we revisit entries in Miss Raven’s diary. A familiar face assumes prominence on the stage--what role will he play in this story of ours?
Part 1 l Part 2 l Part 3 l Part 4
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Day 47
I feel like I am being watched.
Uncle says I am just nervous and excited from the ceremony yesterday.
I am not so sure.
Day 48
I ran into that weirdo again today.
The weirdo is named Rook Hunt. He also calls himself the Hunter of Love...? I do not understand what that means.
He said that he will not be fooled again by Mon-sure Mastermind’s tricks again. He said he knows I am a bird, and he will chase me to the ends of Twisted Wonderland to see me in flight.
...Scary.
He shouts many strange words and chases me around. I managed to narrowly miss him by diving into the bushes. He was distracted by some students with animal ears--and I was able to run all the way home safely.
I suppose it is good to be curious, but...Mister Rook is too curious...!!
Why couldn’t I have run into Mister Jade instead?
Day 51
Uwaaah, I saw a very pretty upperclassman today! He had golden hair, violet at the ends.
The pretty upperclassman snapped at Mister Rook and told him to stop scaring me.
I am thankful, but...it seems like that upperclassman was scanning me all over. Judging me silently. I wanted to disappear into my clothes.
Before we part, he tells me that my ponytails are not symmetrical. He adjusts it for me and sends me off.
Mister Rook’s friends are strange people, too.
Day 56
Another run-in with Mister Rook. They seem to happen every day now, though they are not always...eventful.
He says I am too formal, and that I can just call him “Rook”.
He would not stop pestering me until I agreed.
He gave me a toothy grin when I, at last, relented.
What a troublesome man.
Day 57
Ever since I tried Flounder’s Blue, I have been sampling new foods and drinks.
Today, I got a cup of caw-fee.
Silly me, though...I tripped and spilled it all over a Savanaclaw student. He was so angry. He threatened to gobble me up.
I was trembling and sobbing when the Savanaclaw student yelped. Rook had a tight grip on his trail and kept tugging it, saying weird things until he scurried off.
I thank him.
Day 60
It feels like I see Rook around every corner. He does not always approach--sometimes, he is just content with watching from a distance, or he gives a small wave.
Jade has noticed too.
He asks if Rook makes me feel unsafe..
Rather than feel unsafe, I am a little curious as to why Rook is...well, Rook. He is certainly an odd fellow, but when I think back to a few days ago, I can’t help but think he has a good heart.
I do not think he means any harm.
So I tell Jade I am fine.
Day 66
Rook smelled funny today.
He says there was an accident in the Science Club, so he will reek of tomato and basil for a few days. That hunting trip he was planning is cancelled; the smell will alert too many animals of his presence.
I tell him that he reminds me of the pasta served at the Mostro Lounge, and he laughs.
How he is able to stay so cheery is a wonder to me--but it is not a bad thing, I suppose.
Day 72
Rook tells me of a carny-vale in the nearby town, and says I must experience it for myself. I was curious, so I followed.
There are so many bright sounds and sights. It smells like something fried and sweet.
We ride the spinning tea cups and the carousel. They make me feel like I’m flying once more.
I’m no good at any of the game booths, but Rook is. He has impeccable aim and strength. The game booth runners cry and beg him to not run them out of business.
Rook just smiles and asks them for their best prizes. He has no use for most of them, so he dumps his prizes onto me with a part on the head.
My arms are too full to hold any food, so Rook helps feed me. He stuffs funnel cake, cotton candy, and candied apple into my mouth.
The last thing we do for the day is the ferris wheel. We go up and up against the sunset.
In the dying light of day, I realize something.
Rook has very pretty eyes, too.
Day 80
The pretty upperclassman came up and introduced himself.
Vil Schoenheit, Pomefiore’s dorm leader.
The queen.
He remarks that my pigtails are not asymmetrical today, and that I am a fast learner.
“You must be, little Shetland potato,” Vil comments, “if you are to deal with my huntsman.”
Day 84
...Rook was carrying a Pomefiore boy over his shoulder, like a sack of potatoes.
He says that it’s his job to capture runaways, in service of his queen.
...I wonder how much he gets paid to do this?
Day 85
I told Rook about my hiking trip with Jade!
He seemed very interested, listening intently and nodding while I spoke.
Rook says that he, too, is a fan of the great outdoors, and that we should go on a camping trip together sometime.
I look forward to it.
Day 90
Today is the promised camping trip with Rook.
The weather is getting chillier, so he reminds me to dress warm. He will take care of the rest of the preparations. After all, he has had much more experience with these sorts of things.
I’m still cold, even when I show up in three layers. Rook tuts and throws his jacket over me, despite my protests.
He guides me through the forest, pointing out tiny things I would not have noticed on my own. That bunny’s burrow, those squirrels storing nuts for the upcoming winter, the rustle of the leaves, the trickle of water, how the sunlight filters through the trees...
Rook has such a poetic way of speaking.
He reminds me of a prince in a fairy tale.
Day 94
Rook told me that he has noticed that my speech has improved. He is proud, puffing up like a proud father. He spouts some nonsense about how “mon petit oiseau” (he helped me with the spelling) is becoming such a refined young lady.
I told him that his own manner of speech is far prettier than mine.
Rook just laughed and offered to help me improve more and more, if I wish.
I should pay a visit to Pomefiore, he said, and the queen will welcome me with open arms.
Day 95
Pomefiore is...beautiful. Violet tapestries, crimson curtains, and gold decorations dripping from every available crevice. And everyone is just as beautiful as their surroundings, skin like glass and eyes set in jewel-colored shadows.
I expected nothing less of the oldest dormitory at Night Raven College. The castle is steeped in years of history.
I was offered tea and a three tiered stand of snacks. Vil introduced me to a boy named Epel, who squirmed in his seat with discomfort.
He made us hold our tea cups all funny and barked at us to exchange words. Rook stands at his queen’s side and just...smiles at us as we suffer.
After that, Vil shepherded us to a large table, where two sets of cutlery were laid out.
I’m drilled for hours on end, until I can differentiate the several different variants of spoons, forks, and knives. Epel, too.
I am told to return every few days, to join Epel for his lessons. “It would do him some good to have someone to go through the motions with,” Vil insists. “It gives him some much needed...’encouragement’.”
More lessons for me.
...Somehow, I feel like Rook has me caught in a snare.
Day 100
Vil quips that we are learning ballroom dancing today.
I do not see the practical use of such a skill, but he will not take no for an answer.
Epel and I mutter apologies as we link hands and step on each other’s feet. Then the queen has us take turns spinning around with Rook.
He is very graceful on his feet--far more than myself or Epel. I’m nervous when my turn comes up, but Rook reassures me that it will be fine.
His arms form a cage to keep me from stumbling.
He clicks his tongue and says I need more practice.
Day 102
We focused on the arts today. Vil was busy with modeling (?) and told us that Rook would be our instructor. He says that the arts are his best subject, so please leave everything to him.
Rook shows us fruit bowls and pictures of scenery (he says he took the photographs himself)! Then he sets out canvases and paint sets and tells us to follow his lead.
His voice is a soft murmur as he beats his paintbrush against a blank canvas, breathing color into an otherwise lifeless world.
I do my best to do as he says.
Rook glances over--and he tells me, through a blinding smile, that my painting needs some work.
I have to agree.
Day 110
Epel is with friends today.
Rook takes this opportunity to grant me a language and writing lesson. He knows that I like writing, so now is as good of a time as any.
Rook hovers over me at a desk and suggests ways to make my writing sound...fancier.
I practice writing sentences like...
You are the light of my life, the lark’s birdsong in the still morning.
You are as lovely as the petals of a rose, lush and delicate and breathtakingly beautiful.
You are the moon and the starlight, twinkling in the depths of the darkness and guiding me to salvation.
I ask him what the point of these phrases were--and Rook answers, “For when you wish to woo whomever has captured your heart!” He makes it sound so easy.
He teaches me a few basic phrases of his flowery language, too.
I tell him merci.
Day 117
The queen puts books on my head and tells me to walk without dropping any of them.
Rook holds my hand and helps me keep balance.
It is warm, and comforting and supportive, just like Jade’s.
Then Vil whips out a pair of odd shoes, with stick-like things instead of a flat sole. He calls them heels and urges me to put them on.
I fall on my face, and Rook has to help me up.
On my second attempt, he catches me. He tells me I have the grace of a newborn fawn--that is to say, none at all.
Still, I feel safe in his arms.
Day 133
It is cold, and snowy.
Rook drags me outside anyway. He says exercise will do my frail little body some good.
But...no matter what I activity I do, I am miserable at it. Snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding. I am horrible at all of them, and more.
We settle for building a snowman.
I try to make it look cute.
Day 140
The cruise ship is boring. The beach is boring. It’s mostly older folks like Uncle sipping on tropical drinks and sunbathing.
I wish I had someone to talk to.
Of course, Jade would be nice and set my heart at ease...but Rook would be able to make even something as mundane as this fun.
I can already hear him shouting in my head about the clear blue waters, and the amber sunlight, and the snow white sand.
Look at me, I’m beginning to speak nonsense.
Well, nonsense it may be, but it is interesting nevertheless.
Rook is...interesting.
Day 149
There are lots of seagulls here.
...They remind me of Rook.
I am not quite sure why.
Maybe it is the incessant cawing.
Though...that is charming, in its own unique way.
Day 155
Rook brought back a souvenir from his home land--a bright blue feather on a beaded necklace. He says it is similar to the one the young prince of his country wears.
It turns out, he is from the Afterglow Savannah! What a surprise; I thought he would be from the Land of Pyroxene.
He regales me with stories of his adventures, of the many hunts he embarked on and his trophies.
His eyes are like emeralds, shining with excitement.
Day 167
I saw a play with Rook.
It told the story of two lovers whose families detested one another. The actors all speak quite frivolously, just like Rook. I can see why he would like this kind of thing.
My favorite part...it was the balcony scene.
The male lead cannot stand to be apart from the female lead, and so he sneaks into her garden at night. He summons her to the balcony and makes a vow that he will, no matter what, find a way to be with her.
...The play ends with death.
I cried a little, and Rook let me lean against his shoulder until I stopped.
Day 170
I penned a little story based on the play.
This one has a happy ending.
I want to put some hope into the world.
Day 185 (Continued)
I asked Rook if he was excited for Valentine’s Day, if he was expecting any gifts.
He gave me a mysterious smile in response and said, “Ah, that is for me to know and for you to find out, mon petit oiseau.”
I wonder what he means by that.
Day 186 (Continued)
I will give Rook some chocolate, too!
As thanks for being my friend.
Day 197 (Continued)
I made little heart-shaped bon-bons for Rook.
Perfect for the Hunter of Love.
Day 198 (Continued)
I want to curl up and die, diary.
Rook saw me crying today, under the shade of the great apple tree that towers in the school courtyard.
He asked me what was wrong, a concerned look on his face.
I snapped at him, told him to leave me be.
...But rather than bombard me with questions or annoy me with overly embellished words...
...Rook sat next to me silently. He held my hand until I stopped crying.
Then I spilled everything. I don’t know why I did. I...I guess I wanted someone to know of my story.
Starting with my arrival at Night Raven College. Ending with Jade’s betrayal.
I told Rook the tale through my tears and disgusting sobbing. It was absolutely pathetic, but...he listened patiently.
When I finished, he told me something.
“Mon petit oiseau, I would never lie to you.”
And I believe him.
Day 200
I cried again.
Stupid Leeches.
Day 202
I am scared of Jade.
I say as much to Rook.
He makes a joke about sharpening a harpoon and going eel hunting.
...At least, I think it is a joke.
Day 215
Rook now greets me as soon as my classes let out. His smile and laugh are reassuring to see.
He makes sure I get home safely, and without being accosted.
I cannot say merci enough.
Day 227
...It is ironic.
The man I once ran from is now the one I willingly go to for shelter, and the man I once went to for shelter is now the one I run from.
What a strange reversal of fortune.
Day 228
I feel eyes on me again.
...Leeches, most likely.
Day 230
Tomorrow is another day.
I will stay at Rook’s side.
It is the only place I feel safe beyond Uncle’s attic.
Day 231
I can trust him.
I can trust Rook.
He will tell an ugly truth right off the bat.
He values honesty, integrity--like me.
And birds of a feather must flock together.
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theoriginalladya · 4 years ago
Note
Intimacy Prompts #20: a hand written note for rydenko.
from this list
on AO3 here
Thank you so much for this one!  Sorry it took so long - I had an idea, but I got side tracked by other things! :)  Enjoy, my friend!  And thank you for asking about them!
Setting:  Andromeda Galaxy
~~~
It all begins as a joke.
Once his status as Pathfinder is officially recognized, the Initiative administrators cannot act fast enough to guarantee they have Kaidan Alenko on their side.  As the Nexus slowly opens, finally coming out of hibernation, the administrators agree they need to do something.  So, they give him an apartment.  
Scott has his father’s quarters back on the Hyperion, most of the others have their own quarters or stay on the Tempest, but all Kaidan has available to him is a cryo-pod, one that’s no longer useful now that he’s awake.  He doesn’t ask for anything, doesn’t even drop a hint.  Tann reminds him of others back in the Milky Way, even acts similarly, but he’s a crafty one, too.  In a move that is supposed to look as if the Initiative cares about their Pathfinders, they assign their lone Pathfinder an apartment.  Whether or not they actually do care about him and the role is beside the point.  
Kaidan, who detests being used as a political pawn but recognizes he can do nothing about it, hates it on sight.  
Okay, so maybe hate is too strong of a word. It isn’t the orchard back in the BC Interior, that’s for damned sure, and it’s a far cry from shared barracks during his Alliance years.  He has a room on the Tempest, so it he has some choice about where he can stay. But this… this tiny cubicle that they are calling an apartment?  Four walls, open spacing, barely any room to turn around without bumping into something? There is absolutely nothing homey about it.  Home, is something he’s still searching for.
That lasts about three weeks, until the day Scott drops by when Kaidan isn’t there and instead of messaging him to meet up elsewhere, leaves a handwritten note slipped beneath his door.  Kaidan almost misses it when he gets back after his meeting with Tann, Addison, and Kesh.  Just a small slip of paper – where had Scott found actual paper? – written in black ink.  A hint of white on an otherwise light-colored floor which is barely discernable.  Something about it catches the corner of his eye, though.  
K – Stopped by to see you.  Catch you later.  Scott
Kaidan reads it twice, just in case he’s having hallucinations thanks to the burgeoning migraine before setting it on the corner of his desk, thinking to send a reply via omni-tool.  But the meetings with Tann and the others are taking their toll, and even with SAM’s assistance, the pain is such he forgets until the next morning, at which point he decides to just head on over to the Hyperion instead. 
Of course, Scott isn’t there.
Scott – Was in the area and thought I’d save you a trip.  Better luck next time, right? Catch you on the Tempest.  K
The Tempest is scheduled out the next morning and, as typically happens aboard the ship with last minute things to do and distractions of all kinds, neither he nor Scott thinks to mention the messages to the other; almost an ‘out of sight, out of mind,’ sort of thing.  End of story.
Except, it isn’t.
The weeks pass, more notes appear at the apartment and on the Tempest or Hyperion.  Small ones. Silly ones.  Eventually, Scott starts leaving small sketches of different people on them – quick things, some cute, some ridiculous, but always they leave Kaidan smiling.  
A caricature of Tann speaking with Addison and Kesh mimicking him behind his back even as Tann’s head is blown up twice the size of the others.
A small cartoon of Suvi in the galley, laser focused as she points to different Heleus rocks and explains their different tastes to a very confused looking Drack while Lexi stands in the doorway scolding her.  
A stick figure sketch of Kallo and the several of the Tempest at various stages of the ship’s development.
Kaidan cannot hide his amusement at a more realistic looking sketch of Cora and Liam as they lean against one another in the back seat of the Nomad, fast asleep.  He remembers the incident clearly, from their last visit to Elaaden.  Even as he stares at the sketch, he swears he can hear their soft snores echoing in his ears as he tacks it to the wall over his desk next to the others.
Not to be outdone, Kaidan starts leaving quotes in his messages to Scott; from books, movies, and other inspirational sources he’s come across.  He’s been collecting them for years, long before he ever left for BAaT.  Most are saved on his omni-tool, but he has two small, leatherbound journals filled with the most meaningful ones he’s come across. They are about the only thing he was able to bring with him from home when he joined the Initiative.  
Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. (1)
The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty. (2)
We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated. (3)
Fear profits a man nothing.(4)
With each successive note between them, Kaidan learns a little bit more about Scott.  But the whole situation changes drastically after their adventures on the archon’s ship.  On the way back to the Nexus and after Lexi has cleared him, Kaidan does something he hasn’t done in centuries, if ever…
 ~~~~
 The buzzer to his Nexus apartment sounds, but Kaidan doesn’t bother to answer it.  It’s Scott, and the man has his own key.  The buzzer, he supposes, is Scott’s polite way to warn him that he’s arrived. The fact that Scott uses does it now of all times tells Kaidan something more; Scott is pissed.  
Well, I probably deserve it after what happened.  
He’s tempted to not answer, to see if Scott leaves a note, but decides not to risk it.  Opening the door, he steps to the side to allow the younger man in.  Scott remains silent, though his body language screams in a way that Kaidan easily recognizes.  Taut, tense, his lips tightened in a thin line, the way he won’t look directly at Kaidan… It’s one side of a conversation Kaidan’s been on many times, albeit hundreds of years before and in a different galaxy.
“Do you have any idea what you just did?” Scott demands, blue eyes sharp and snapping with anger.  “Any idea what could have happened back on the archon’s ship if SAM hadn’t been able to resuscitate you?  You-you could have died back there!”
Opting to let the younger man get it out in one fell swoop, Kaidan bides his time.  Well, except for one point of clarification.  “I did die.”
Scott growls in the back of his throat.  An honest to goodness growl.  Kaidan can’t help the small smirk that twists at his lips as a result.  When Scott steps forward, invading his personal space, Kaidan does something he usually doesn’t do; he goads him.  “What? It’s the truth, isn’t it?”
“Not helping the situation!”
Kaidan isn’t certain if he should be worried that SAM is, so far, remaining silent in his head.  “I needed to get us out of there,” he argues instead.  “How else was I going to –?”
“You?  Why did it have to be you?  Why is it always you?”  Scott tosses his hands in the air and turns away, frustration building until his biotic corona flickers around him.  Still grumbling to himself, he turns back, glaring at Kaidan.  “What the hell am I going to do if I lose you like that?”
Kaidan sucks in a breath, recognizing the pain. Sure, things between them have improved since their arrival in Andromeda – no place to go but up, right? – but this…? This is a reinforcement of what he’s hoped for ever since accepting Alec Ryder’s offer.  
Or am I reading too much into this?
On their private channel, SAM replies, “You are not, Kaidan.”
Scott still prowls around the room as Kaidan asks, “Can you come over here for a minute?”
“Why?  So you can die on me a third time?”
Petulance is not a good look for Scott, and Kaidan has to bite back a laugh; as much as he wants to set it free, it would do more harm than good just now.  “I want to show you something.”
Scott grumbles some more, even as Kaidan heads on over, but eventually he follows.  When he arrives, Kaidan hands him the letter.  “Read this.”
The blue-eyed glare returns, heavy with suspicion.  “What is it?”
“Just read.  Please.”
Scott waits another moment, two, then drops his gaze and starts reading.  For several minutes, Kaidan waits patiently, watching.  The letter isn’t long, but Scott is taking his time reading it, but Kaidan knows when Scott reaches the end because the younger man’s spine stiffens, his shoulders roll back, and his head snaps up as he darts a quick look up at Kaidan. “Today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the Earth.(5)”  
When Scott says nothing else, Kaidan prods, “So, what do you think?”
Scott is quiet for a minute.  It’s difficult to read his reaction because he keeps his back to Kaidan the entire time, slightly hunched in the shoulders, utterly quiet. “Do you mean it?” he asks, voice soft as if having trouble pushing it out.
“I always try to say what I mean, Scott.”
The younger man turns around, his face a surprisingly neutral mask.  Considering how difficult that has been for him in the past, Kaidan is impressed.  “So, you’re saying you consider yourself the luckiest man on Earth or, in this case I guess, the Nexus, because you survived?”
Ah, so that’s the problem.  Reaching over, Kaidan settles a hand on Scott’s cheek. Scott leans into it, then apparently thinks better of it or at the very least realizes what he’s doing and pulls back. But that’s okay.  Kaidan now has a far better sense of what he is working with. Running his thumb along the corner of Scott’s lips, he says quietly, “I am the luckiest man in Andromeda because you are here with me.”
Tension immediately flows out of Scott and he visibly sags a bit.  “And you really mean that?  Because look, I get that my Dad talked you into all of this without checking with me first, and –”
Kaidan slides his thumb over the top of Scott’s lips to silence him.  “I really mean that.  This has nothing to do with your dad, but everything to do with you….”  
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 (1) The Godfather, part II
(2) Winston Churchill
(3) Maya Angelou
(4) 13th Warrior
(5) The Pride of the Yankees
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words-for-holland · 4 years ago
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Quarantine Series: The Birthday Week
Pairing: Tom Holland x Reader
Summary: It’s Tom’s Birthday Week! So much planning, food, and surprises....and a special promise from our favorite Q.S. Couple.
A/N: It’s been long overdue...Is it too late to say Happy Belated Tom?! 🥺
A/N: Happier Part 3 comes out this weekend!!
Check the Rest: Burnt Out | A New Look | Secret Cuts & Kisses | Breaking Friendships
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May 25, 2020 (T-Minus 7 Days)
An almost average Monday. Its the start of Tom’s Birthday Week and Y/N is trying her best to get ahead of the game and prep up for an over-the-top birthday party for her boyfriend. Well as over-the-top as it can get when you’re stuck in Quarantine because...well...Covid.
The only problem, she didnt know where to start. What party to throw, games to play, food to make, playlist to create, and above all the gift. This year Y/N wanted to give Tom something that held a lot of sentimental value to represent all the love she had for him. While Y/N was lucky enough to have someone like Tom to spoil her and show her just how much she meant to him, she wanted to do the same for Tom. So, she went to the spare room, which had now become her new work space and started googling away.
May 26, 2020 (T-Minus 6 Days)
The next day, Tom and the boys went out for their daily Golf match, while Y/N stayed behind to continue party planning. She made sure to be discreet about it and pretended that she had to take care of a few things for work. In reality, Y/N facetimed her best friend, on advice of what to get Tom for his 24th.
“C’mon Im serious Nico. I want to give him something special this year.” Y/N groaned when she knew her best friend wasn’t giving her the answers she wanted.
“Im sorry, Y/N. I dont know what you could give him. You’ve know him better than anyone else.” Nico reasoned, as Y/N continued her helpless groans, banging her head on the table. “Look Im sure what ever you come up with, Tom is going to love it no matter what.”
“But that’s the problem I don’t know what I can come up with. Our first year together I got him clothes, last year it was golfing gear, I don’t know how I can top that.” Y/N continued to stare at the desk picking up and dropping her pencil repeatedly. “I just know that I want it to be something he can always look back at and know that I’ll always be there for him.”
“Wow. You really like this kid don’t ya?” Nico questioned, but of course she knew the answer to that...anyone did.
“Yeah...more than anything.” Y/N smiles back as she thinks about Tom.
“Well what about a promise ring?” Y/N’s ears perk up at the suggestion.
“Like uhhh a men’s promise ring? Do they even make promise rings for men?” She questions, though isn’t opposed to the idea.
“No, Im talking about a donkey’s promise ring.” Nico rolls her eyes. “It’d be cute and not to mention empowering because you’d be making the first move. Empowering women is super attractive.”
Y/N stops to give it some thought. It would be cute to have a ring for him and see him wear it everywhere knowing he would carry a symbol of her love. Of course it’s nothing like the real thing when couples get married and all, but it’s a step toward that direction. “Ill think about it.” She says.
May 27, 2020 (T-Minus 5 Days)
Y/N had finally given the idea a good 8 hours when she decided to find the ring. She scrolled through pages and pages to find the ring but none of them spoke to her or looked like it was meant for Tom. The more she scrolled the more anxious she got, slowly biting ther thumb nail as she continued.
“You know if you’re gonna do birthday shopping for someone in the house, the kitchen might not be the best place to do it.” A deep british voice popped up from behind.
Y/N shrieked and jumped, quickly closing her laptop, afraid she had already ruined the surprise. Until she turned around and saw it was just Harrison. “Ugh, was it reallg necessary to do that?” She whined. “You almost gave me a heart attack.”
“Of course wheres the fun in simply asking what you’re doing.” He laughed, pulling a chair next to Y/N as he watched her scroll through pages or rings. His smile growing ever so slightly. Y/N looked at him with suspicion.
“Okay I know that smile...clearly you know something I don’t.” She states. “Is this a bad idea?”
Harrisons smile dropped quickly as he profusely shook his head. “What? What? No...I just uhh — actually yeah the rings are not a good idea.” He blabbers. Y/N looks at him, waiting for Harrison to continue. “I mean think about it. If you buy a ring for Tom and he starts wearing it everywhere. People are gonna suspect that he’s getting married or worse find out about your relationship. I don’t know if you wanna risk that.”
Harrison was lucky to be a gifted actor as he improv-ed his answers on the spot in hopes that Y/N did not find him to be too suspicious. If she called his bluff and found out, Tom would make sure Harrison would never see the light of day. “You should go for this necklace. I think it suits him and has a touch of your style.” Harrison points out to a necklace he truthfully thought she should get him. With that, he quickly left Y/N to be on her own in gift shopping.
May 28, 2020 (T-Minus 4 Days)
Y/N’s planning was 70% in the clear. The necklace was ordered, Sam was helping out in planning the food, Harrison and Tuwaine were arranging the golf diversion plan, and Harry was keeping Tom busy making sure he wasnt suspecting anything. Although that didn’t stop Tom from bothering his girlfriend a couple of hours of the day. How could he not, the boy missed his girl.
“Y/N..” Tom cooed as he wrapped his hands around her, kissing a small part of her shoulder. “Can you take a break from whatever arts and crafts thing you got going on and cuddle with me?” He continued as he placed another kiss.
“Babe, I’d love to more than anything but I wanna finish this up so I can at least accomplish one thing during Quarantine.” She explains.
“You accomplish a lot of things darling, and you can accomplish another if you just come and cuddle with your needy boyfriend, who happens to be turning 24....in 4 days.” He hinted, places kisses by ear.
“Oh and I suppose that gives you special treatment?” Y/N challenges, letting out giggles as Tom continued to kiss where she was ticklish the most.
“I would hope so. Now, what do you say?” He smiles at her, placing the small strand of black hair behind her ear.
“Okay you win.” She whispers.
May 29, 2020 (T-Minus 3 Days)
Tom and Harry were busy hosting the Pub Quiz, while Y/N and Harrison took the time to create the decorations for Tom’s party. The theme... Spiderman, but what else was new. Harrison drew up webs and spiders on the deflated red and blue ballooms, stashing them in a paper bag to be inflated the day of. Y/N started on the birthday pub quiz answer sheets, customizing them to have that personal touch of Tom. Everything was going smoothly until, she needed more glue.
“Crap, Im gonna check the closet. I think we have a few spare sticks of hot glue.” Y/N stated, as she got up.
Harrison eyes started to display signs of panic as he quickly got up and raced her to it, guarding the closet door. “Uh...there’s no more. I already checked.” He squeaked.
Y/N raised her one eyebrow in suspicion. “I’m pretty sure there’s a couple.” She fired back, trying to pry Harrison off the closet. “C’mon Harrison. This isn’t funny.”
“I think it is.” Harrison continued to stall. Y/N rolled her eyes, coming closer to him, wiggling her fingers. She tickled his sides, knowing it was his weak spot. His grip started to loosen as he let out fits of giggles. Y/N took the opportunity to quickly open the closet, and grab her glue sticks. She looked around to find if anything was suspicious or worth hiding, but there was nothing.
“You know...you’re acting really weird.” Y/N stated as she walked back to the table to continue her project. Once she was out of Harrison’s sight, he quickly texted Tom about the dilemma. Only to receive:
Time to find a new spot then.
May 30, 2020 (T-Minus 2 Days)
It was Tom & Y/N’s turn to wash the dishes after dinner. The irony both had no clue what one was planning for the other. They were always the type to be truthfully honest to each other, but a few little playful secrets couldn’t hurt. “So, is it just me or is Harrison acting really...strange?” She asked her boyfriend. Tom looked at her, pretending to not know what she was talking about.
“Umm..not sure. He seemed fine to me....Why? What’s happened?” Tom asked casually, focusing on the dishes.
“You know for someone that’s really good at acting, you’re a terrible liar.” Y/N laughed out loud, only to get splashed with water. “Touche. But seriously, he gets so nervous around me. Like someone’s out to get him if I do something he doesn’t expect. I wanted to get glue sticks yesterday in the closet and he straight up guarded the door, saying I wasn’t allowed....in out own closet?! I swear it’s like he’s hiding something in there.”
“Haz, you div.” Tom muttered under his breath.
“What was that babe?”
“Uhh nothing. I was just saying Harrison is a piece of work. Even I couldn’t tell you why he was acting like that.” He lied.
“Uh..huh.” Y/N responded, not buying anything but rather just letting it be.
Tom placed the dishes on the rack, while he came up behind his girlfriend, huggling her tightly from behind. “It’s whatever. But, lets just go back to our room, lay under the sheets, watch some Netflix....have a good time.” He smirked, kissing her temple. “And just cuddle like there’s no one watching.”
“Mmmm. Now that sounds like a plan.” She whispers pulling him to their room.
May 31, 2020 (T-Minus 1 Day)
Y/N only had 1 day left to prepare everything for Tom’s big day. She made sure to stay on top of everyone’s tasks and prepped her gifts for Tom tomorrow. Y/N was extremely proud of everything and everyone that was taking part of her little project. A rare sight anyone would ever see, but the most thing she was proud of was how secretive they were able to keep it that Tom didnt suspect a single thing.
“So, got anything planned for tomorrow?” Tom asked Y/N as she was cooking pancakes.
“Mmm I dont know. Am I supposed to have something to do tomorrow?” She teases.
“Well..” He starts as he takes the spatula out of her hands. “I hear it this div’s birthday tomorrow.” Tom grabs Y/N’s waist, picking her up and placing her on the counter. “And I hear he just wants to spend it with his girls all day long.” Y/N’s legs locked around Tom’s waist as he continues his not-so-obvious birthday wish.
“Oh there’s gonna be more than one girl at this birthday of his huh? He must be quite the player.” She smiles at him, fingers thresding through the small brown hairs at the nape of his neck.
“Well yeah because Tessa is his princess but Y/N, this really cute adorable hot girl who doesn’t think she’s hot but should really start seeing it...that HIS princess.” He explained, kissing every visible spot on her face. “It would make his 24th. Trust me.”
Y/N pretends to stall and think about his wish. He knew he was going to get Y/N and Tom time together no matter what, but where’s the fun in just expecting it. “We’ll see about that birthday boy.”
June 1, 2020 (Party Time!!)
The boys were all out celebrating Tom’s birthday at the golf course at the start of the day. Of course that wasn’t until Tom made sure to get some extra love and attention from his girlfriend first thing in the morning. Y/N quickly rushed to get the decorations in place, while Nikki, Tom’s mother helped in setting the table and getting the food ready with cleR and concise instructions from Sam to ensure they couldn’t mess it up.
“Y/N this was such a wonderful idea. I cant wait to see his face when he comes home.” She exclaims, giving Y/N the most comforting hug.
“Thank you Nikki, I just want it to be perfect for him this year. I mean we’re all in Quarantine and all of us are finally together in one place.” Y/N explains as she places the final ballons up by the doorway.
“Well of this is how you prepare for a birthday, I can’t wait to see how you prep for your wedding.” Nikki responds, only half joking.
“He hasn’t even proposed yet!” Y/N laughs, though the thought makes her stomach flutter in the best way possible. Being married to Tom was all she could ever want in life.
“Well, dont you worry. Im sure it’ll happen, that boy can’t gona second without you I’d be surprised if he doesnt....May just have to chastise him if he takes too long.”
Y/N was starting to grow a bit suspicious. This whole week alone was filled with suspicion. Harrison acting weird, Tom being extra needy and cuddly, Nikki talking about marriage. “Was Tom going to propose soon? “ she thought to herself.
Just in the nick of time, the boys had all arrived after an intense game of golf. They came in bursting in conversation about how great it was, who deserved to win, and of course how Dom was always getting beat at his own game by his sons. Of course the festivities didnt start yet, until Tom took a moment to shower and dress up. It wasnt that he needed to, but for him..it was extremely necessary for today.
Y/N went up to grab her presents for Tom in the work closet, when all of a sudden, a small box landed on her head. She looked up then down towards where the item fell, only to see a sparkling pink and clear diamon cut ring. “Oh my god” she muttered.
“Bullocks.” Tom spoke out loud wearing nothing but a towel wrapped around his torso.
“I...uh..Im sorry Tom. I swear I wasn’t looking for it I was just trying to get my gift so I could give it to you. I didnt know this was your hiding spot.” She frantically explains picking up the box and giving it to him.
Tom looked a little disappointed as he stared at the ring. He had worked so hard to keep it a secret from everyone only to get it ruined on his brirthday. “No no no. It’s fine Y/N, really. I just...I was planning on giving this to you next month on your birthday.”
Y/N opens her mouth realizing how bad she messed it up. “Oh my god. Tom Im so sorry.”
“It’s fine.” He laughs. “Actually kinda glad you found it. So now I can do this”. Tom gets down on one knee, his towel still wrapped around his torso. “Y/N, I have loved you more than I could ever love anyone in the past 3 years I’ve known you. I swear I could have sworn I was going to marry you the day I met you at the Marvel office with your little black Dell notebook in your hands. Your humor, your kindess, your sympathy and empathy for all living things makes me love you even more. Will you make me the happiest birthday man on earth, and marry me?” He proposes.
Y/N tears up and shakes her head vigorously. “Yes! Yes! Yes!” She cries, repearing the words as she hugs him on the floor. They lean in giving into a passionate kiss, still holding onto each other. Y/N and Tom couldn’t believe it was real. Just a couple of seconds they were boyfriend and girlfriend..now they’re engaged. “Wait. I almost forgot about your presents.” She quickly speaks out grabbing the bag.
“Darling, believe me you were my present. I am beyond satisfied right now.” He chuckles.
“I know, but I got you these too!” Y/N pushes the bag to him. Tom shakes his head as he opens it up find a silver necklace with a retangular pendant, and a major jar full of post- it notes. He observes the necklace and opens up the retangular pendant to find a picture of Y/N and him during their firsf year together. He smiled back at the memory, now seeing as to where they’ve ended uo. Stronger and better than before. Next, he opened the major jar pulling out a small card that read:
For whenever you’re down, need a laugh or missing me.
He picked up a post it note that more pictures of them during their time together with a note saying:
“Remember that you’re the reason we all smile. You are a warm loght of happiness that does not stop giving to the world.”
Tom tears up at the gift. In all his years, no one has ever given him soemthing that held so much sentimental value. “I love you so much Y/N. Thank you for this...for all of this.” He whispers, placing a gentle kiss on her lips.
“Your welcome. I hope you know you mean the world to me too, and I just wanted your birthday to be perfect.”
“It already is...because I have you.” He looks back at her and smiles.
“Cmon birthday boy. Get dressed, we have a party to attend to and news to share .” Y/N laughs as she helps her boyfriend...I mean fiance up. Who said that quarantine birthdays were boring?
Taglist:
@hollanddolanfangirl​ @parkerspillow​
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Fallout Themed ‘Get to Know Me’
I was tagged by @nuka-bolt, thank you!
First encounter with Fallout:
You might be surprised, but the first one I had was Fallout 3! I picked it up in about 2010 or so. I never finished it. I saw a centaur and got mauled by it and that was it until I tried Fallout 4, which took me a few tries to get the hang of it. No, I never met Mayor MacCready in my game. But yes, I know what happens and the lore. hehe.
Name of First Character:
Miranda
Dumb ways I died in Fallout: well, the most memorable lately was on stream when Em got completely dominated by a Radstag. That was pretty funny. Got my leg blown off by a missile that missed me a couple of days ago. And then there was one time I got sniped and Mac just suggested I use a Stimpack. Thanks, buddy. When I come back to life, I’ll try that... -_- Others included cars blowing up or actually hitting me. 
What would I improve in Fallout 4?:
Honestly, as much as I love getting involved with settlement defense, I’m still the damn General. With forces under my command towards the end. I feel like once you have enough settlements on your side, you should be given the choice to go yourself, ignore it, or send a detachment to defend the place.
I also agree with letting Dunc come to the Commonwealth, or at least have Mac mention that you both should go stop by Daisy to see if there’s any mail from home. I would also expand on it by letting Mac approach you after the main game is over (meaning once you’ve chosen a side for the final outcome), and say he feels safe (or not) enough to bring Dunc to the Commonwealth. If you encourage them to be together, it should be an in-game week or so and then get a notification to head to the settlement you live in and there he is. 
Letting people find out who Father actually is would be nice. Reactions would range from sympathy to suspicion depending on who you side with, who you romance, etc. 
Choosing to build a settlement yourself or letting the settlers build it. They’re gonna live there, why not let them do the work as well? I know it was supposed to let your inner creativity shine and build stuff up and make the crazy cool structures that inspire awe, but personally, I would love to have the choice to let them build stuff as well as me. Bring shipments of supplies that they need when they run out, send out scavenging parties, etc. Again, I’m the general! I want to be able to lead and have people do things!
This turned into a thing, but it’s glancing the surface. I have more thoughts but if you want to hear them, drop an ask. I’ll talk your ear off about it. 
Thanks again! I tag @thenightmotherwrites and @baddminton. No pressure, you don’t have to, and ignore me if you’ve been tagged already!
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fanficnewbie · 4 years ago
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Sienna Weighs in P9
OPEN HEART: SECOND YEAR - CHAPTER NINE
(ETHAN x FEMALE MC)
MC is Dr. Francesca Houseman *This entry takes place two days after the Mass Kenmore heist. (This is a chapter by chapter series…)
Baz starts to question Francesca and Ethan’s relationship.
To anyone who may have noticed how late I am with this installment, thanks for your patience. I think I needed to write this when I knew OHB2 was coming back online.
PREVIOUS CHAPTERS Chapter 1:  MC tells Sienna about her Ethan convo at Donahue’s. Chapter 2:  MC and Sienna discuss Ethan’s gym routine. Chapter 3:  MC questions how well she really knows Ethan. Chapter 4:  MC takes Elijah and Sienna to see Evelyn’s exhibit. Chapter 5:  Sienna talks MC through a panic attack over Ethan. Chapter 6:  Sienna cheers on MC for standing up to Ethan. Chapter 7:  MC confides in Sienna how she met Ethan’s mother. Chapter 8:  MC has to the consequences after the baseball game.
Word Count: 1935 Rated: Teen
*** Francesca closed her eyes against the crisp breeze as it rushed past her face. For the first time in the past few weeks she felt a sense of contentment. She had gotten her revenge on Mass Kenmore, both by beating them at the softball game and stealing the Senator from them. She was back on good terms with Aurora, Kyra was scheduled for her life saving surgery, and Ethan had passionately kissed her not once, but twice. 
“Why are you smiling?”
She turned to Baz who was strolling next to her, “I’m just,... I’m excited for ice cream.”
Baz arched his eyebrow, “It’s really that good, huh?”
“Yes, and you must order ‘Death by Chocolate’. No questions asked.”
“Well, at least I’m guaranteed to die happy.” Baz laughed as the small shop came into view. 
He was someone else Francesca was grateful for. A true ally, someone who didn’t pretend to be anything other than what he was (unless he was pretending to be Zaid). Their hospital heist had brought them closer together, reinforcing their growing bond. Still unsure of June’s true motives, Francesca at least knew she could now trust one other person on the team.
Sienna looked up as they walked into the ice cream shop, she smiled and waved them over to her table, “Hey, you two!”
And of course there was Sienna. There were hardly words to express how much she meant to Francesca, and after their softball game fallout, she was almost happiest of all that their friendship was back on track. 
Francesca sat down, “Hey there. You got my text about Baz joining us right? I owe him this treat.”
Baz grabbed a menu as he sat, “Yes, to celebrate the sweet success of our latest win over Mass Kenmore.”
Sienna giggled, “Yes, I did and I’m glad you could join us Dr. Mirani. You guys are bona fide heroes! The whole hospital has been talking about your coup. I still can’t believe you managed to pull it off.”
“Well, we had quite a bit of luck on our side.”
“Yes, and his name is Dr. Ethan Ramsey.” Baz put down the menu, it’s obviously a ‘Death by chocolate’ hot fudge sundae for me. Do you guys know what you want?”
Francesca and Sienna gave him their selections as he got up to order from the counter. As soon as he was out of ear shot, Francesca lowered her voice and leaned in excitedly, “I haven’t had a chance to tell you, but Ethan kissed me again the other day!”
Sienna didn’t even try to hide her glee, “What?! How?! When?!”
Francesca looked over her shoulder to make sure that Baz was still out of hearing range, “At Mass Kenmore! We were about to get caught by someone on staff and needed a distraction. Next thing I know, his body is pressed against mine and his tongue is in my mouth! It was unexpected, and hot, and crazy, and glorious!”
“What was crazy and glorious?” Baz smiled as he reappeared, handing them each a bottle of water.
“Uh, our revenge on Mass Kenmore. A patient stolen for a patient stolen.”
“Hear, hear!” Sienna held up her bottle in a mock cheers. “To the best Diagnostics team in Boston!”
The three laughed as they knocked their bottles together, then settled into an easy banter about hospital life, clueless interns and difficult patients until their ice cream was served. Baz took a bite, “Okay, this is heavenly. Your friend who recommended it is my new best friend.”
Francesca shifted uncomfortably as Sienna leaned over to pat her arm, “She’ll get through the surgery, she’ll be okay.”
Baz shook his head, “I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t have said that. I wasn’t thinking.”
Francesca smiled, “No, it’s fine. It’s not like Kyra isn’t constantly on my mind already. Part of the reason I wanted to come here is because it reminds me of her. I know she’d be happy to know that we’re celebrating a small success. We have to enjoy them as they come.”
Baz nodded, “We do, we really do.”
There was a short silence as they continued eating until Sienna spoke up, “Hey, Aurora told me that you guys are okay again. I’m so glad to hear it.”
Baz chuckled, “Yeah, that was crazy. I thought we were done for sure when I saw her. Based on what I overheard at the softball game, it sounded like she owed you one Francesca.”
Francesca bit her lip, “Yeah, I guess she did.”
Baz finished his ice cream in astonishingly short order and pushed his cup away, “Okay, Francesca, I have a question for you.”
She turned to him with her spoon in her mouth.
“What’s going on between you and Ethan?”
Francesca exchanged a quick but panicked look with Senna before she answered, “What do you even mean?”
Baz shrugged, “I never really noticed or thought about it until June said something---”
“June?!” Francesca was still processing that June would be talking to Baz about her and Ethan as Baz answered, “Yeah, she mentioned something about how you guys have history.”
They both turned to Sienna when she started to laugh, “Of course they have history. Where have you been? Together they saved Dr. Banjeri’s life.”
Baz mulled her words for a bit, “Well, yeah, there’s definitely that. But I’m not sure it explains everything else…”
Francesca tried her best to sound casual, “What’s everything else?”
“For one, he’s chosen to take you out in the field each time we’ve had a patient require it since you joined the team.”
“She’s new!” Sienna chimed in, “He’s obviously exposing her to those opportunities as part of her training.”
Baz nodded, “Okay, but the way you yelled at him when we were at Leland Bloom’s house. I mean, it was awesome but, how’d you get away with it?”
Francesca started to answer, but hesitated as she struggled to come up with something plausible.
“But she didn’t get away with it.” Francesca turned to Sienna who subtly motioned for her to go along, “Remember you told me how he laid into you later in private?”
Francesca’s eyes widened with false recognition, “Yeah, yeah, he admitted he was wrong but also totally disapproved of how I handled the situation. You and June just weren’t there to witness that part. He said he didn’t want to stoop to my level.”
Baz mulled it over, “Huh. That does sound like him.”
Sienna took her last bite of ice cream nodding, “Exactly, it totally does.”
Undeterred, Baz continued, his curiosity and obliviousness blinding him to the growing anxiety at the table. “Well, how did you get him to play softball? That was also pretty out of character.”
Francesca was thankful for an easy out, “Oh my God, that was crazy simple. I just offered him the chance to humiliate Tobias!”
Baz laughed, “Yeah, that would have been a quick sell. Hmmm, I guess it also explains his part in our Mass Kenmore excursion? Making Tobias look bad?”
Francesca quickly assented, “Yes! That’s an angle I intend to play for as long as I can. So far it’s worked out for us really well.”
Sienna clasped her hands together, “See Baz?! There’s nothing out of the ordinary. It looks to me like June is causing unnecessary drama.”
Baz chewed on his lip, “Yeah, she can be … interesting.”
Francesca sighed, “That’s the understatement of the year.”
Leaning back Baz looked at both women and grinned. “Well, I’m glad I got that all cleared up. Zaid told me I was crazy when I mentioned it to him. But Zaid is constantly telling me I’m crazy, so I never exactly know when he’s being serious or not.”
Sienna frowned, “We just tend to assume he’s always being serious.”
“You asked Zaid? Did you ask anyone else?”
Baz shook his head “Nope! You offered me ice cream later that day so I figured I’d just bring it up with you, well, now!” He shrugged, “I’m normally not one to look into things like this but we’re a small team, and things are already tenuous and, well, I just needed to know that we’re all on equal footing.” 
He stood up, “Okay, I’m going to go hit the little boys room, I’ll meet you out front.”
Sienna turned to Francesca wide-eyed as he walked away, “Holy cow, that was a close one!”
Francesca grabbed her purse and headed to the counter to pay, “I really need to figure out June’s game. What the hell? Who else is she talking to?”
Sienna nodded, “You should mention it to Ethan and get his take. You know, when you guys aren’t busy sucking face.” She giggled when Francesca rolled her eyes as they walked towards the door. 
“Argh! It seems like there’s always some looming dark cloud threatening everything, and I just hate it all so much. Walking in here I felt lighter than I had in weeks but now, I feel the weight on my shoulders all over again. In so many ways things are improving, but at the same time, I feel like I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop.”
“Like you’re at a crossroads where things can go either really great or really bad, and you’re still waiting for directions on which way to turn.”
Francesca looked up surprised, “You feel it too?”
Sienna nodded, “I do. Between the fate of the hospital and Kyra, and everything else, it’s hard not too.”
They were met with Baz’s smiling face as he walked out of the shop, “Much better!” His expression slipped as he saw their faces, “What’s wrong?”
Francesca shook her head, shielding her eyes from the sun as she looked at him. “Baz, I have a question for you.”
“Shoot!”
“How do you stay so above it all? So nonchalant and, well, happy, when everything around us is on the verge of collapse?”
Baz took a thoughtful breath, “Part of it is that the ‘doom and gloom’ gene went to my brother. The other part of it is that I’ve watched him worry about worst case possibilities his entire life, and none of his fretting ever contributed to the outcome one way or another. So I figured, who needs it? I’ll stress when there is something concrete to stress about.”
“But Edenbrook, it could close! We could all be out of jobs soon and the patients will have nowhere to go.”
Baz tilted his head, “Yes, but it’s open now and we can help people now. And just like it could close, it could also stay open. Right?”
Sienna slowly nodded, “I mean, it is a valid point.”
Baz sighed, “I make more of those than I get credit for, so here’s another one. Say the worst thing does happen, you know why you’ll still be okay?”
Francesca shrugged, “Because we’re all excellent doctors who are bound to land on our feet?”
Baz chuckled, “Probably, but not what I meant. You have an amazing support system. Your group of friends, you guys are the envy of the hospital staff. You’ll will get through whatever it is together. That, coupled with your stellar resumes, means you’ll be able to find ways to help whoever needs your help, wherever they may end up.”
Francesca absorbed his words as Sienna responded, “Thank you Baz. We do have an incredible group, and you know what?”
“What?”
She smiled as she looped her arm into his and the three of them headed back towards the hospital, “I think we may have just found our newest member.”
Chapter 10:  Sienna confronts Francesca on Ethan’s “Not Single” status. 
***
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING. YOUR LIKES AND COMMENTS MEAN THE WORLD!
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dialovers-translations · 4 years ago
Text
Diabolik Lovers Para-Selene Vol. 7 Sakamaki Reiji [TRACK 4]
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Original title: ふたりきりのワルツ
Source: Diabolik Lovers Para-Selene Vol. 7 Sakamaki Reiji [CD not owned by me]
Audio: Here
Seiyuu: Katsuyuki Konishi
Translator’s note: Reiji really drank his ‘boyfriend material’ juice in this drama CD lol. Who would not want a boyfriend who is so dedicated to you??? If you are a fan of fluffy/romance stuff, then the Para-selene series was just made for you. uwu Meanwhile MC-chan does not need her memories to remember that having your blood sucked apparently feels really good? DL seriously made me curious about what it feels like to have your blood sucked. xD
This track was requested by an anonymous user. If you would like to request a translation, please contact me through IMs or drop an ask!
Track 1 ll Track 2 ll Track 3 ll Track 4 ll Track 5
Track 4: A Waltz Between Just Us Two
“Nn...Nnn...”
Reiji wakes up.
“Where am I...?”
*Rustle*
“This time we’ve been brought to the dance hall, it seems?”
You wake up as well.
“Oh? You’ve awakened? How do you feel?”
You ask him about the dizzy spells. 
“I believe that is part of the Paraselene Syndrome as well. Inside this illusionary world, whenever our ears start ringing and we lose consciousness, we find ourselves in a different place upon waking up again. That being said, this is all an illusion as well, so rather than our physical bodies moving, I believe it is more accurate to assume it is our surroundings which are altering shape.”
You ask if this place should be familiar to you as well. 
“Yes, exactly. You have frequented this dance hall before.”
You frown.
“...Just as I thought, you cannot recall anything, can you?”
You nod.
“It is fine. Please do not feel so down. Thanks to you, I have changed my trail of thought somewhat as well. We cannot allow ourselves to be stuck in this illusionary world brought forth by the Paraselene Syndrome forever. If there is a way, I would like to return to you to the real world as soon as possible. Said feeling has obviously remained unchanged. However, I do realize I may have rushed a little. Even if your memories were to never return, you still are the same exact person. 
...I realized that in that case, we can simply start over from the beginning. Until the day you are able to return these strong feelings I harbor for you. This time, it is my turn to try and reach for your heart.
Let me remind you that you are the one who stopped me from leaving. I shall not allow you to claim you want to keep your distance at this point.”
You shake your head.
“...Very well. Well then, what shall we do now? Given we are already at the ballroom, would you perhaps care for a dance?”
You seem hesitant.
“...No need to be so alert. Unlike chess, you have shown considerable improvement in regards to dancing. Fufu...Well, your first attempts were horrible though.”
You get upset.
“Like I said, your first attempts. Listen carefully to what I’m saying. Despite stepping on my feet several times, you never gave up. As a result, your current dancing skills have become the talk of the high society. Your elegant steps always steals the show, you see.”
You seem a little flustered.
“There is no music, but I doubt that will pose a problem. Well then, your hand, please.”
You place your hand in his.
“Dancing in a deserted ballroom should make for a rare, but nice experience. After all, I can have you all to myself.”
You blush.
“Fufufu...We cannot dance when you stand so far away. Scoot a little closer, entrusting your body to me.”
Reiji pulls you close.
*Rustle*
“Well then, let us start with a Waltz.”
You tell him you don’t know how to dance a Waltz.
“It is okay if you do not know the steps. As long as you follow my lead, you should be okay. Well then, here we go.”
He leads the dance. 
“One, two, three. One two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three...Oh? You are actually doing a fine job. It is possible your body remembers the steps?”
You nod.
“Fufu...Very well. Keep going like that. One, two, three. One two, threーー Ah!”
You nearly trip and fall.
*Rustle*
“That was close.”
You apologize.
“No, I should say sorry as well. (1) Your steps were so impressive, I carelessly forgot that at present, you are still a beginner. However, this is a new discovery. Dancing might provide some sort of trigger to regaining your memories. It might be worth trying it out again sometime soon. I do not mind taking things slow. As long as I get to spend my days with you like this...I’m sure someday, we will be able to return to our previous lifestyle. I will never give up after all.”
You look up at him. 
“Hm? Is something the matter?”
You tell Reij you trust him.
“Ah...So you will...put faith in me?”
You nod.
“Thank you very much. Hearing those words from you at this very moment, makes me more happy than anything.”
Reiji suddenly embraces you.
“Please...Allow me to stay like this for a bit...”
You say you have a request.
“A request? ...What could that be?”
You ask him to suck your blood.
“...!! Your blood? ...However, you seemed to dislike having your blood sucked very much earlier, did you not?”
You explain.
“You do have a point. Similar to the dancing, your body might remember something through the stimulation of blood-sucking. However, you did not show any reaction other than resistance in regards to my fangs. Even for the sake of regaining your memories, I do not intend to do anything that makes you uncomfortable. If we take our time, I am sure we will find a different methoーー”
You protest.
“...Ah. ...Good grief. You really are unbelievable. ...Fufu. However, that stubborn side of you is one of your defining characteristics as well. If you insist, I shall have your blood right here, right now. ...Please listen to what I say for a bit, understood?”
You nod.
“Tilt your head slightly to the side, please.”
*Rustle*
“Yes, just like that.”
Reiji bites you.
*Gulp*
“Mm...”
*Gulp gulp*
“Haah...How is it? Anything comes to mind? ...Haha, from the looks of it, you are so busy enduring the pain, you simply don’t have the leaway to think about anything else.”
*Gulp gulp*
“Mm...”
*Gulp*
“...Shall we call it quits soon? If you wish to do so, please tell me.”
You want to continue. 
“I see. In that case, let us continue. Next up...I’ll drink from here.”
*Gulp*
“Mmh...Haah...I shall suck from you until you’re satisfied. If you can no longer endure it, please say so. Understood?”
You nod.
“Very well.”
*Gulp*
“Mm...Nn...”
*Gulp*
“...Has the pain grown stronger? In that case...”
You shake your head.
“What do you mean?”
You tell him it feels good for some reason. 
“Does that mean you have once again awakened to the pleasure of having your blood sucked? Or perhaps your body has finally...remembered? The sensation of my fangs, that is.”
You beg for him to bite you again. 
“Oh dear...Look at you begging it for it yourself, how disgraceful. ...However, right now, I wish to grant every single wish of my beloved. I feel that way from the bottom of my heart.”
Reiji continues sucking your blood.
*Gulp*
“Mm...”
*Gulp*
“Hm...? Is something wroーー”
*BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ*
“...Ugh!! Ah...Haah, haah...Again...!? Uu...I wonder...where we are headed next...However...Please...Rest assured...”
You seem worried. 
“No matter where it takes us...I shall remain by your side forever...Next to you, the person most precious to me in the whole world...”
*SWOOSH*
ーー TO BE CONTINUED ーー
Translation notes
(1) こちらこそすみません or ‘kochira koso sumimasen’ is a common phrase you will hear as a response to someone’s apologize. Japanese culture is all about being considerate towards others, so it is polite to take part of the blame in some cases, apologizing on your behalf as well (even if you might really have done nothing wrong). 
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auspicious-lilana · 4 years ago
Text
Two Cats, One Heart (Chat Noir x reader)
Summary: Y/n Ross and Adrian Agreste are childhood best friends, they’ve been through thick and thin, including losing their mom, and dad. Since then Y/n’s mom made her live with Adrian at his mansion and forever leaving her life. Watch as their lives Change as they become the new heroes of Paris alongside Ladybug and see how Romance sprouts between the two models.
Part 1 |  Part 2 |  Part 3 | Part 4  | Part 5 
(Make sure to comment! It brings me motivation seeing them!)
{Y/n's POV}
"Have any 2 of hearts?" I asked. We were waiting on Alya's blog live stream that she posted would happen later on while Alpha and I played card games for the meantime.
"Darling, no. I'm the king of games". Alpha cockingly remarked as I scoffed. "Go fish"
"If you're so good, tell me why you lost the last 10 games we played and now I'm here beating your butt in Go fish" I confidently said as I picked up another card from the deck.
"I was only warming up for this game!" Alpha countered. "Any Queen of hearts?"
"You said that 9 games ago, go fish" Alpha picked up a card and placed it on the desktop stand he was using to hold and hide his cards.
"Well this is was my final warm-up"
"Whatever helps you sleep. Any 5 of diamonds?" Alpha huffed as he handed me the card as I smiled placing it in my pile of other matched cards. "Your pile seems awfully short of matchings" I snickered.
"Hush child, I'm just going easy on you" Alpha snapped. "A Kawami treats its owner well. Any Joker?"
"My last card. Here you go" I said happily as he placed it in his matching pile before sighing as he saw the stock empty as I smirked." I won, again"
"There's one thing you can't beat me at". Alpha confidently said.
"What?" I said curiously.
"A bet" I raised my eyebrow, signaling him to explain further. "I bet you, the pretty boy is head over heels with you, and if you ever asked him to a date, he'd say yes" I scoffed and shook my head.
"He's not into me".
"That's what she said" I rolled my eyes.
"Besides, I'm in love with someone else," I said sighing as I looked at my poster wall.
"I know, I know. Mr. I'm the best Cat, Chat Noir."
"Hang on, 'cause we're going for a ride. Freak out! What you got here is no ordinary book, it's a tenth-grade history book. And I should know, 'cause I've got this very same book. Could our very own Ladybug be a high school student, in real life?" Alya said in her live as we seemed to missed a part of it while we were talking. I looked at it in awe.
"Ladybug going to our high school?" I thought about it before I grinned. "What if Chat Noir also goes to our school too?!"
"Don't you think you know him then?" Alpha said as he reached for his brownie and taking a bite. "Why bother yourself with cocky cats  when you could be enjoying this?"
"First of all, Cocky cats last longer than a single brownie, and they are much better looking."
"Your loss"
"My only loss is my appetite right now, you are aware you're eating a week old brownie, right?"
"The older it is, the more flavory." I cringed as Alya went live again.
" OH MY GOSH, Coming to you live, Lady blog viewers, I'm at the scene even before Ladybug, Lady Wolf or Cat Noir! This is insane!" I saw an akumatized person which caught me off guard as I stared at the screen shocked with my jaw dropped.
"Love the face change," Alpha snickered. "Total improvement." I glared at him as I showed my wrist with my miraculous.
"Time to transform," Alpha groaned as he finished the brownie in one gulp. "Alpha, Tails out!"
***
By the time I got there, Chat was also there. We met up in front of the museum as we saw the akumatized victim pull the metal bars from the museum lockdown as we looked at him with a cocky grin.
"Nice of you to hold the door open for us," I said with a confident grin before Chat and I tried to attack him before he dodged and grabbed our legs, throwing us into a coffin, which closed on us.
"Well, this wasn't what I was imagining when I said I wanted us to get some alone time," Chat jokes as I blush while I scoffed.
"What did you imagine?"
"For me to know, and you to never find out." I was pressed to his chest as he placed his hands around my waist to make it less uncomfortable. Soon Ladybug pulled the coffin open as I quickly got out as Chat did too.
"Hiding behind an innocent bystander!" Chat yelled. "You're weak, Pharaoh!" Pharaoh walked through the cage with Alya on his shoulders.
"I'm way more powerful than you are." The Pharaoh used his strength to close the bars and walked away.
"And don't forget! All the latest behind the scenes are on my blog!" I heard Alya exclaim.
"Alya is sure one brave character." I sweatdropped.
"If by brave, you mean bossy, feisty, and bold?" Ladybug asked. "Yup, that's her! Come on, get us out of here, Cat Noir!"
"Cataclysm!" Chat used his power to break the bars. "How are we gonna find them?" He asked as we ran.
"Alya's got a live stream on her blog!" Ladybug said as she and I brought out our yoyo/staff to watch the live stream.
"Hi, everyone! Alya here, live blogging from the shoulder of the terrifying villain! Huge scoop to come, stay tuned!" Chat's ring began to beep constantly.
"You two go ahead." Chat said. "I'll join you guys as soon as my Miraculous is charged up again."
"Hurry," I said. "It's going to take the three of us to defeat him." Chat nodded as we ran separate ways. Chat going back and ladybug and I chasing after Pharaoh to stall.
We watched the live stream to see Alya was going to be used as an offering.
"We better hurry," Ladybug said as I nodded before we ran right into a bubble which slowed us down.
"Oh no," I groaned as Ladybug tried to pound on her. "Can't believe we ran straight into a time bubble,"
"We've got to get out of this!" Ladybug said as I chuckled. I bet we sound and look as slow as a snail in the outside.
"ladybug! Lady Wolf! this is Alya! I just found out I'm the sacrificial offering to the sun god! Please hurry!" Alya said into her live stream.
"Hold on, Alya." Ladybug muttered. "I'm nearly there," Ladybug began to run as I glanced at her bubble and started to chuckle. She looked so funny in slow-motion. I began to run, it was the most we could do before I saw Chat pop her bubble with his baton before popping mines as I stumbled and fell onto his chest as he held me.
"Thanks for waiting around for me," Chat joked as I got up with a grin.
"No problem," I played along.
"Now we need to get to Alya quickly." Ladybug said as we ran outside. We peeked outside to see Mummies blocking the view.
"We can't see the Akuma or the girl!" I exclaimed before we all went up to the roof.
"Over there," Chat pointed as we spotted the Akuma and Alya before we began to watch the live stream from ladybug's yoyo.
"Whoa, back up! Who are those goddess chicks with the black spots and wolf ears! There, on your papyrus!" Alya exclaimed.
"Ladybug and Lady Wolf. My sworn enemies!" The Pharaoh angrily yelled. "My two greatest nemeses may have kept me from carrying out my ritual 5000 years ago, but they will not stop Nefertiti from coming back to me this time! especially that annoying wolf"
"Did you say..." Alya trailed off shocked. "Ladybug and Lady Wolf, 5000 years ago?!"
"Everyone does have a past they can learn from." Ladybug said as I stood surprised. Guess you really do really learn something new every day as a miraculous holder.
"Well," Chat said inspecting me with a grin. "You don't look a day over 3000."
"Now you know why we're so much wiser than you!" Ladybug said with a grin as I frowned.
"I am not annoying!" The Pharaoh began a ritual as a beam shot from the sky as the mummies carried Alya as she struggled.
"Ladybug! Lady Wolf!" She yelled as Ladybug got serious.
"We've gotta save her before he completes the ritual or Alya will be gone, forever!" Ladybug exclaimed.
"What should we do?" Chat asked.
"You hold back the mummies while Lady Wolf and I take on the Pharaoh."
"Why do I have to deal with these freaks while you two get to slip calmly round back?"
"Because Ladybug is the only one who can capture his Akuma, I am the one he hates the most and you're the bravest one out of the three of us," I winked as Chat playfully rolled his eyes.
"Sure," He said before Ladybug swung off. "I know you don't really think that, but I'll pretend you do."
"Don't worry," I said turning around. "I genuinely do," Chat's eyes widened as I smiled before going after Ladybug.
Ladybug and I went around as Chat went to distract the mummies.
"Hey there, you bunch of bandages!" Chat yelled from his spot sitting on the street lamb. "What do you say we wrap this up!" He grinned.
"Chat noir!" Alya exclaimed.
"Seize him!" The Pharaoh yelled as the mummies ran after him.
"Is that really as fast as you can go?" Chat taunted as he leaped from one street lamb to another.
"Wait, this looks... like a trap!" The Pharaoh exclaimed a bit too late as Ladybug swung by and got Alya. "Horus! Give me your wings!" I threw a pole at him which slowed him down as I went up to Ladybug only to have Alya's phone shoved in my face.
"Thanks for saving my butt!" She exclaimed. "You all just witnessed our favorite heroines save yet another citizen."
"Oh, uh, you're welcome. But it's not over yet." I said as Ladybug nodded.
"Not until--"
"Not until Ladybug destroys the pendant containing the akuma, and turns everything back to normal" Alya cut off Ladybug. "I pay attention"
"The Pendant!" The two heroines exclaimed. "Good eye!"
"Ah!" Alya yelled as Pharaoh knocked Ladybug and I off the building as Ladybug used her yoyo to ease her fall as I balanced myself with my staff. Ladybug soon caught Alya's phone as The Pharaoh carried her.
"Help me! Ladybug! Lady Wolf!" She yelled as Ladybug and I were fighting off the mummies as the Pharaoh placed Alya on the light beam. We then saw a car about to be thrown at Chat as Ladybug used her yoyo to pull him out of there.
"Chat Noir!" She yelled. "This way!" Chat Noir followed us as we ran inside the bus, Chat going under as the two of us got out quickly once locking the mummies in the bus as Chat flipped it over with his staff.
"We have to save Alya before she gets to the circle of darkness." Ladybug said as we nodded along as we ran towards the beam only to be stopped my the Pharaoh.
"You will not stop me from bringing Nefertiti back!" He growled. "I'll finish you off! Anubis, bring me mummies!" He began to shoot beams at us as we had to keep dodging it. Ladybug used her yoyo to tight him up for a small distraction as Chat and I used our staffs to leap over him as we began to quickly climb up the glass pyramid with our claws. "Horus, Give me your wings!" Pharaoh began to fly, dragging Ladybug in the air as Chat and I ducked low as he flew up ahead. Ladybug reached to his back as she broke the string of the pendant and threw it down.
"Chat Noir! Lady Wolf! The pendant!" We pounced down as we ran towards the falling pendant as Ladybug already jumped off his back using the yoyo to safely land as all three of us ran for the pendant only for Pharaoh to beat us to it as he stood next to it, stopping us in our trails.
"Sekhmet, give me your strength!" The Pharaoh used his strength to cause a sonic wave which knocked us down as we were soon surrounded by mummies. "It's over," He picked up his pendant.
"Ladybug!" Alya yelled. "Save me!"
"Oh, Ra, god of the sun, accept this humble offering and return the princess to ME!" The Pharaoh chanted.
"Lucky Charm!" Ladybug said as a polka dotted box containing Lady Wolf outfit set was in it. "A Lady Wolf outfit?"
"That's our last hope?" Chat asked. Ladybug used her thinking vision and the bracelet in the costume caught her eyes.
"This offering isn't good enough for Nefertiti!"
"Hey! Thanks a lot!" Alya defensivly yelled.
"Too late, Ladybug!" The Pharoah said. "The ritual has begun!"
"Set Alya free and sacrifice Lady Wolf instead!" Lady Wolf gasped as she stared at her.
"Hey!" Ladybug didn't look at her as she gave her a identical bracelet of her miraculous behind her back as Lady Wolf grinned slightly as she swiped it, swiftly covering her real bracelet with the fake one. "Wouldn't that be the sweetest revenge? 5000 years later! After all, Me and Lady Wolf are the ones who kept Nefertiti from you all these years! And you always said she was the most annoying!"
"It's true that she'd make a much more precious offering than this mortal." Pharaoh took Lady Wolf's hand. "Horus, give me your wings!"
"Seriously?" Alya said as Pharaoh threw her off the beam as Ladybug caught her. "Excuse you, but I make excellent sacrificing material!"
"You win, Pharaoh..." I pretend to take off my bracelet, then tricked the Pharaoh and grabbed his pendent without his knowledge. " You want my miraculous? Go get it!" She threw her fake bracelet. Pharaoh went after it only to find it's fake a bit too late.
"A toy?" The Pharaoh screeched. "You tricked me!" Lady Wolf punched the pendant and threw it down for Ladybug to get the akuma.
"No more evil doing for you, little Akuma! Time to de-evilize!" Ladybug caught the akuma. "Gotcha!" Ladybug purifed the Akuma before releasing it. "Bye, Bye, little butterfly!" She then threw the lucky charm in the air. "Miraculous Ladybug!" Everything began to turn back to normal as Lady Wolf slid down the glass pyramid.
"Thanks, Ladybug! But, uh, I still gotta ask: how old are you, really?"
"Much older than a high school student, that's for sure!" Ladybug swung away.
"Don't you wanna know how old I am?" Chat asked as he smirked.
"Looks like I'll be able to tell for myself." Alya pointed at his ring to show he was about to turn back as he panicked and ran off as Lady Wolf and Alya chuckled.
"Well, that's my cue to leave." I left without another word as I headed back in my room before changing back.
"Man am I tired." Alpha complained as he tiredly flew to the plate of brownies left on her desk.
"How come you never told me you annoyed more people than just me?" I asked.
"What do you mean annoyed?"
"Well, during the fight. there was another Lady Wolf 5000 years ago."
"Oh,"
"Was there really more Lady Wolf's before me?"
"Many,"
"At least now I know I'm not the first to be stuck with you," I playfully sighed.
"What's that supposed to mean!" I chuckled as I sat down on my chair.
"Nothing."
"Y/n!!!"
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oldfashionedmoth · 4 years ago
Text
Fred and George do QVC
Find me on AO3
It was a bright, sunny, Saturday afternoon, and Harry Potter was stuck inside folding laundry. He stared longingly at the window, wishing he was anywhere but here. Lately, he had been feeling listless and filled with ennui. His life at the Dursley’s was considerably less exciting than his life at school. Albeit, he didn’t have a crazed, nose-less, master wizard, trying to murder him here; but even that might have been an improvement, to the boredom he had felt all summer. He glanced across the room at his Aunt Petunia, who lounged on the sofa, half asleep. He wondered if she’d notice if he escaped outside, for a breath of fresh air. Uncle Vernon had just left, with Dudley and his friends, to see a professional football match. This was one of the numerous birthday surprises his aunt and uncle had lavished their son with. Harry would have liked to had gone too, but he was told “the laundry wasn’t going to fold itself.”
“If I were allowed to use magic outside of school, the laundry certainly *would* fold itself.” Harry thought bitterly.
The TV chattered away in the background.
“…and just so we’re clear, these are dishwasher safe?”  
“Yes, that’s right, Antonella. The Scrub Daddy is absolutely dishwasher safe.”
“And remember, you’re getting 12 of these! Order code 63528, when you call in.”
“Yes, and just quickly…because I know we are running out of time… I wanted to show you that the design for these is not just a smiley face. These are fully functional. Put your two fingers in the eye holes like so, and it stays on your fingers. That’s going to be fantastic for getting inside of mugs, cups, you name it.”
“Wow! that’s ingenious!”
The presenter turned and addressed the camera directly, holding the item for sale.
“Look! Here is what you’re getting, guys. And this packaging! Ah!  This custom packaging is exclusive to QVC, guys. And, all this could be yours, for 4 easy payments of $7.49. Amazing!”
The camera zoomed in, on the presenter’s face.
“Coming up, we have a couple of young entrepreneurs, showing us their latest confections. I’m sure we all know someone with a sweet tooth. Just wait till you see what these boys have in store for us today. But first, make sure you get your orders in for the Scrub Daddy. These things are selling like hot cakes!”
The shot cut to a pre-recorded infomercial, for Scrub Daddy sponges.  
“Hmmph!” Aunt Petunia snorted “I should order some of those for you, so you’ll stop ruining my pots!”  
Harry muttered under his breath “Well, if you fixed the dishwasher, instead of using me as your personal slave, I wouldn’t have to scrub the pots.”
“What was that?!” snapped Aunt Petunia, “You ungrateful little brat! After all your uncle and I have done for you; taking you in, like we did, after your parents…well…You should be ecstatic that I even offered to buy you anything!”
In a huff, she snatched the remote control off the coffee table and turned up the volume.
Harry put the folded laundry in the basket and stood to bring them upstairs.
“Up next, we have twins Fred and George Weasley, of Weasley Wizard Wheezes, here with us today. Welcome boys!”
Harry froze, gobsmacked. Much to his disbelief, there was his best friend’s older brothers, peddling their wares on QVC. One was wearing an evening tailcoat, which was neon orange with lime green polka dots. His trousers were also neon orange, but with a lime green tuxedo stripe running down each leg. The other twin was wearing the same tailcoat and tuxedo trousers, but in inverse colors to his brother. In contrast to the loudness of their jackets, both boys were wearing black cravats around their necks, giving them a ‘Victorian Regency on acid’ kind of look.
“Thanks for having us, Antonella. We’re happy to be here!” said one of the twins
“Remind us to buy a pack of those Scrub Daddies, before we leave.” said the other, “Our Dad would get such a kick out of them. Sponges with smiley faces. What a concept! Haha!”
His brother leaned into him, and theatrically whispered “We don’t need them ourselves. We can just use Malfoy’s head.” He held up two fingers in a sideways peace sign, and pretended to poke his brother in both eyes. “His hair is great at soaking up grease.”
The twins snickered together, as the presenter, unperturbed, carried on with the sales pitch.
“Fred and George have brought with them some of their Skiving Snackbox candies. Now, judging by the names of some of these, I think these would be perfect as a novelty get-well present, for someone in your life who’s been feeling a little under the weather. There’s something for every ailment. We’ve got ‘fever fudge’, ‘fainting fancies’, ‘nosebleed nougat’ and last but not least, ‘puking pastilles.’ Hehe! Now, what made you boys come up with this concept, for these sweets?”
“Well,” said Fred, “they’re not exactly for someone who’s already sick."
"That could result in some disastrous side effects.” quipped George
Fred turned to the camera and added “Always read the labels, kids!”
George continued, “They make you temporarily ill, if for example, you wanted the day off work. You pop in a fainting fancy. Bob’s your uncle-Fanny’s your Aunt, suddenly your GP has prescribed you a day of bed rest.”
“Oh, but totally 100% all muggle, I mean natural. 100% all natural.” Fred interjected
“Yes, definitely nothing magical about these candies at all.” George agreed, with a sheepish grin.
“Oh, I get it!” exclaimed the host, “That’s just like the Natural Herbal Detox Tea, we had on the show last month. This may be TMI, but I swear I was on the toilet for a week, after that segment! Hehehe!”  
Fred laughed and said, “Now would be a good time for me to tell one of my poop jokes.”
George replied “Nah, they always stink!”
“Hey-oh!” they cried, while high-fiving each other.
“You know what you needed?” Fred asked the host, “The Skiving Snackbox’s companion product, ‘You-No-Poo’. Guaranteed to cause crippling constipation in less than 3 minutes!”
“The constipation sensation, that’s gripping the nation!” exclaimed George
“Well, being conscious of time, lets move right along.” Antonella said, “Our viewers at home are probably wondering ���but how do they taste?’ Let’s find out, shall we?”
She popped a candy into her mouth, and immediately started retching.
“NOOO!” the twins shouted in unison.
“You’re not supposed to eat the whole thing at once!” lamented Fred
“You’re only supposed eat half!” followed George
“The antidote is in the second half.” continued Fred
The poor unsuspecting host began urging in a rhythmic way, “Blech...Blech...Blech...Blech...”  
“Oh no!” wailed George “I think she’s stuck in vom-limbo.”
“Both sides of the sweet must be working against each other!” added Fred
“It’s simultaneously trying to make her be sick, and also keeping any sick from coming up.” George concurred.
Panic-stricken, Fred started rifling through his rugsack. He began removing items and throwing them behind him. A roll of parchment; a quill; various bottles and vials; a bowler hat; a cup of tea, complete with saucer; a set of fireworks, which exploded upon impact with the floor; a broom; a Yorkshire pudding; a literal kitchen sink...  
Between urges, Antonella asked “How...blech...did...blech...you...blech...fit...blech...all...blech...that...blech...in...blech...there?”
“Never mind that now! Here, eat this!” bellowed Fred, shoving the found antidote in the host’s mouth.
Finally, the retching stopped, but with it came a lengthy spew of vomit across the set, with such ferocity it rivaled Linda Blair in the exorcist. The show quickly switched to camera angle “B” to avoid broadcasting Antonella’s lost lunch to the viewers.
“I think it’s best we...uhh...take a little break,” the presenter said shakily, wiping tears and vomit from her face. “ugh... Up next we have Ken Oschipok with his beautifully iridescent Ammolite and White Zircon silver rings...ahh...oh...just a second, my producer is telling me something...”
She touched her finger to her ear, turned away from the camera and hissed into her mic “What do you mean you can’t find the rings? A Platypus? Are…are you sure it was a platypus? How did a platypus get in here, and why would it steal our merchandise?”
Fred and George exchanged worried glances.
The presenter looked back to camera, with a wide grin plastered on her face, “Sorry guys, we are just having a little bit of...umm...technical difficulties. We’ll be right back wi...OH!”
Suddenly a red envelope swooped down out of nowhere, flicked Antonella across the nose and stopped abruptly in front of the twins. A loud but shrill voice echoed throughout the studio.
"FRED AND GEORGE WEASLEY! OF ALL THE COCKAMAMIE STUNTS YOU’VE EVER PULLED — MUGGLE TV? YOU WAIT TILL I GET HOLD OF YOU! IMAGINE MY SURPRISE WHEN I RECEIVED A CALL FROM RITA SKEETER, ASKING FOR A QUOTE FROM THE DELINQUENTS’ MOTHER — I NEVER — IN ALL MY DAYS — YOUR FATHER'S FACING AN INQUIRY AT WORK ~ AGAIN! AS IF THE MINISTRY HASN’T BEEN FACING ENOUGH BACKLASH, AFTER THAT NIFFLER GETTING LOOSE, NOW THIS? WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? YOU TWO COME HOME THIS INSTANT!!!"
Once the assault on everyone’s ears subsided, the presenter unsteadily staggered out of shot, with her hand on her forehead, murmuring “I think I need a nap, or a drink, or both”
The screen cut to another pre-recorded infomercial; a cheerful rock jingle began to play.
You wanna skip class, but not look like an ass? If you want an excuse; What have you got to lose? You better show some moxie, Grab a Skiving Snack Box-y From Weasley- Wizard - Wheezes!
Harry stood slack jawed, in the living room, transfixed by what had just played out on the tv in front of him. Clean laundry scattered around his feet, from where he’d dropped the basket.
“Bloody Hell! Those crazy troll bogeys!” He thought with a grin. A shocked guffaw escaped his throat.
Aunt Petunia gave him a scandalized glare and shrieked “I suppose you have something to do with this?”
Harry scooped all the laundry into his arms and dashed upstairs before she could chastise him any further. Although, he imagined any tongue-lashing Aunt Petunia could give him, would pale in comparison to the dressing down the twins were probably getting, from Molly Weasley, right now. She is one fierce boss-witch.
“Oh, to be a fly on the wall at the Burrow, right now” Harry said to himself, with a chuckle. “I can’t wait to hear the details from Ron!”
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