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sylusmistress · 2 months ago

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Run Kitten... Run

Chapter 1: King of the Wanderers

Five days, three hours, forty-five minutes and twenty seconds. That’s how long you’ve been searching through the dense woods outside the N109 Zone looking for the man that has been dubbed as King of the Wanderers. Originally you didn’t have plans to take on this mission, especially since you are still dealing with the grief of losing your childhood friend Caleb and your Grandma Josephine, but Tara insisted that getting out and working in the field would do wonders for your mental state instead of sulking around the office and letting your mind drift off to a dark place. Now after being out in these woods with little to no rations left, a broken tent, and the burning desire to take a five-hour long bath, you have made a mental note to chew Tara out when you return home and to never take her advice ever again.

“This is fine… this is fine… When I return to Linkon City I’ll take an extravagant bubble bath and then I’ll cook myself a feast meant for a king and eat it all by myself.” In a desperate attempt to keep your sanity from slipping you mumble softly to yourself to keep your mind distracted from how alone you feel out in these woods. The comforting autumn sun is beginning to set and with your tent being on its last leg (literally) you are dreading having to spend another sleepless night outside under the moon and stars. Although you thrive in social settings, you’ve never been much of a social butterfly and under different circumstances you would relish in the idea of being alone with your thoughts and no one to distract you. But after five days of silence besides the occasional monologues you speak out loud to yourself or the shrieking whines of low-level wanderers you’ve slayed, you are in need of communicating with someone or any living creature besides yourself.

Turning your head to the side you notice the fluttering of black crow wings as they soar through the charming blue sky and land from tree branch to tree branch until it finds a comfortable sitting position. Considering that the file you were given for this mission explicitly stated that this wooden area was desolate besides the presence of wanderers you are somewhat confused about the presence of a crow. But you aren’t someone that is willing to disregard a blessing as you scour the woodland ground in search for any fallen grains or berries you can offer to the nearby bird.

With a handful of unidentifiable berries that could possibly be poisonous if consumed by a human you carefully walk up to the birch tree that looks as if it’s been growing in the same spot for hundreds of years and hold your cupped hands up in the air like an offering to an ancient god. “Psst… Psst… hey there birdie. Would you like a snack? I’m not sure if it’s very tasty but my name is Y/N, and it is a pleasure to meet you.”

After your cheerful greeting an uncomfortable silence befalls between you and the black crow that stays silent while eyeing the pitiful offering in your hands before letting out a disgruntled cawk and flying to another tree branch to sit upon. Squinting your eyes at the bird that blatantly disregarded your offering, your irritation grows as you toss the mystery berries down onto the woodland ground and wipe your hands on your pants before turning on your heels to begin your journey once more. “I swear when I get back, I’ll give Tara a piece of my mind… ‘Go on the mission,’ she says… ‘Fresh air will help get you out of this mental funk,’… blah, blah, blah. I feel worse now than when I was at home in my bed.” Another hour of you grumbling to yourself and trekking through the woods passes before you feel the Aether Core in your heart begin to rapidly thump and buzz in your chest. The sensation is unbearable and feels dangerously close to a heart attack as you let out a loud shriek and almost fall into the dry patched woodland ground before steading yourself against a nearby oak tree.

“W-W-What is happening?” Fear and panic begin settling in as you try to do your best not freak out, but your mind is swirling with different possibilities as to what could be wrong. Quickly you begin undoing the top four buttons of your shirt to expose your sternum as your eyes try to locate what could be causing you immense distress.

“A-Am I wounded?” Narrowing your eyes with circumspectly precaution at your flesh, you ensure you haven’t somehow been struck by an invisible wanderer and when you decide you aren’t dealing with any external damage you try to focus on what you are feeling internally and attempt to give yourself a self-diagnosis. “I wish Zayne was here. He would know how to fix this... whatever it is…” You whine breathlessly to yourself before taking three big deep breaths and settle your beating heart enough to focus on other breathing techniques Zayne previously taught you before departing for your mission.

One. Inhale. Two. Exhale. Three. Inhale. Four. Exhale. Repeatedly you mentally repeat the simple mantra to yourself until you feel your heartbeat return to its normal pace. Peeling your eyes back open, you gently run the tips of your fingers over your exposed flesh and slightly wince when you press down on where your Aether Core resides. It has been years since you’ve experienced such a sharp and distressing ache around your heart, and you begin to theorize that exerting yourself during this mission in combination with losing your loved ones the week before might have been too much for your heart to handle right now.

Regardless of what you may theorize, your inability to back down from a challenge is one of your biggest strengths as well as your biggest weakness and so far, your track record as a rookie Hunter has been spotless with no failed missions. Ignoring the logical voice screaming at you in the back of your mind to turn back around and schedule an appointment to visit Dr. Zayne, you decide to take one more deep breath before rebuttoning up your shirt and carrying on through the dense woods.

Unlike the previous night’s trudging through the woods, it seems that luck is finally on your side as you come across a clearing where the trees aren’t as dense, and the shining moon is shining down enough light to let you see your surroundings clearly without a fire. Using your hunter watch to scan for any possible metaflux levels, you determine that even though this area is out in the open it is a relatively safe location before finding a tree stump and plopping down next to it with an fatigued sigh.

Utilizing this moment of peace, you continue using your hunter watch and reread the file that was assigned to you for this assignment. It was previously estimated that it would take around four days to complete the journey and find the King of the Wanderers, but worry is starting to set in. You’ve been out in these woods for five days and the only wanderers you have encountered so far have all been low level cases that barely pose a threat to anyone. Additionally, it states that this land is void of any life besides wanderers and your mind drifts back to the presence of that rude black crow you met earlier. “Something about this whole mission seems off… but I can’t pinpoint what it is…” While replaying the events leading up until now a thought crosses your mind that maybe Jenna made a mistake but you quickly clear that idea from your mind. As leader of the Alpha Team, it is unlikely that someone as competent as Jenna would have made a critical error that could result in you possibly dying a tragic death out in these woods. Right?

Letting out a disgruntled sigh you lean your head back against the tree stump and close your eyes momentarily as you begin thinking deeper about the mission you are currently on. At the moment you are hungry, physically and mentally exhausted, have little to no food rations left, you aren’t sure if you experienced a heart attack earlier and need to meet with Dr. Zayne as soon as possible, your tent is of no use, and above all else you are unable to sleep the night away because every time you drift off to sleep you have flashbacks to the explosion that killed Caleb and Grandma Josephine.

You are a prideful woman, but the longer you allow yourself to weigh the pros and cons of the situation you have been placed in you are beginning to feel yourself give in to defeat just this once. Dragging your hands down your face you wipe away a lone tear that seemed to have escaped your right eye before looking down at your hunter watch and hovering your finger over the communication hub. With just a click of a button you can call for backup and be extracted from this mission in less than twenty minutes. “I tried… I really did try…” With just one… simple... click…

The momentarily feeling of weakness quickly vanishes when you press the button, and nothing happens. Wiping your eyes once more you sit up with your back straightened and your senses now on high alert as you start frantically pressing down to request for backup. The more you press the button the more your hunter watch seems to glitch until it eventually fades out to an unresponsive black screen. “Fuck!” Immediately you remove the watch from your wrist and check to see if the device has died from low battery percentage. Swallowing a nervous lump in your throat when you see that the battery and inner mechanisms of the watch are all working properly. There is technically nothing wrong with the device, but you feel your skin prickling with fear knowing that there must be something or someone nearby interfering with the connection.

Because of your intense hunter training you can momentarily get a grip on your fear and pull out one of your hunter firearms from its holster before standing to your feet and getting into a defensive position. Focusing all your senses on your Evol you attempt to seek out any enemy energy that may be lingering nearby but the moment you do this you feel your heart start rapidly beating once again. Wincing at the pain that building in your chest you decide to stop trying to use your Evol before you unintentionally cause irreparable damage to your heart.

From out of the corner of your eye you spot a looming shadowy figure dressed in a black leather jacket with red and white thorns decorating the material, a black sweater, a pair of black leather pants, boots, and gloves to finish the look. If you weren’t so busy mentally planning what your next move will be, you would have appreciated how put together this mystery man’s monochromatic outfit was. Because it is now close to midnight, the moon that sits high in the sky cascades down a spotlight to show you the man approaching has a build that is larger than life. His messy silver hair flies down over his forehead allowing you to only catch a glimpse of his bright red eyes. Living in Linkon City you’ve come across various types of people with features that could be classified as ‘abnormal’, but you have never met anyone with eyes as red as two twinkling rubies. While taking in his sharp facial features for a split second you swear that you can see his right eye glowing but when you blink it seems your imagination might be playing tricks on you because of how exhausted you are. “Well, well, well… What do we have here? A scared little kitten that seems to have lost her way?”

Tightening the grip on your weapon you hold it out in front of you and glare at the man before you with a vicious intent in your eyes. Despite your stature and appearance, you are a top ranked rookie hunter for a reason and based on the information given about this mission no one should be in these woods besides – “I am not lost and do not call me ‘kitten’. My name is Y/N, now, who are you and what business do you have out here?”

The man before you simply stares at you with his piercing red eyes before quietly chuckling to himself and in the blink of an eye positions himself in front of you while directing your firearm to point directly at his chest. “It seems that you are scared like a kitten, have claws like a kitten, and dare I say you are as feisty as a kitten. Are you sure I shouldn’t call you kitten?”

All the fear you previously possessed is now replaced with the irritation you felt earlier as you do your best to keep a poker face and not show an ounce of vulnerability in the face of a possible enemy. There was no physical description on what the King of Wanderers would look like but there was a note in the file that stated once you meet him you would know in your heart who you are dealing with. When you initially read the file, you didn’t think that you would physically be able to feel in your heart how dangerous the man standing before you is. “You did not answer my questions, and I am not fond of repeating myself. I am a skilled hunter from Linkon City, and I will ask you once more, who are you and what business do you have all the way out here?”

With an amused smile plastered on his face the stranger standing before you tightly grasps your hand that’s holding onto your firearm and hovers his finger over the same trigger you have your index placed on. Again, your emotions are all over the place as your irritation now migrates to a bottomless pit of confusion. You aren’t sure what kind of man you are dealing with, especially since it seems that he is silently telling you that he feels that you holding a gun to his chest is not at all threatening or even worth acknowledging with words. “When Mephisto told me that you lacked manners I assumed he was exaggerating.” In one swift movement the gun that was held tightly in your hands is effortlessly disarmed and tossed carelessly to the ground as red and black energy tendrils appear out of nowhere and wrap around your wrist, leaving you immobilized and in a state of shock. “I’m sure whatever profile the Hunter Association has on me lists my name as ‘King of the Wanderers’, but I prefer to go by Sylus. As for my business out here, well… This is my domain, Kitten. And you are trespassing.”

The moment the words ‘my domain’ and ‘trespassing’ leaves from his lips to your ears you feel your mouth go dry and your head starts to feel light headed. Something about all this still isn’t adding up to you and you let out a soft groan when you feel the red and black tendrils tighten uncomfortably around your wrist. “Your domain?… L-Let me go!” Wiggling around to free yourself from the energy bondage you feel another batch of tendrils wrap around your neck and your ankles, forcing you to stay completely still. “I-I said l-l-let me go! Y-you are under arrest, and I need to bring you in for questioning –”

Your pleas fall on deaf ears as Sylus stares at you with an unreadable expression and tightens the hold on your body once more. Not enough to kill you but the tightness is enough to leave a bruise in the morning... if you make it until the morning. Closing the distance between the two of you the air becomes thick enough to cut through and you watch as his face momentarily contorts to one of displeasure before returning to his stoic expression. For the second time tonight, it appears that his right eye is glowing but the intensity of it this time around is a lot more obvious, and you are sure that you aren’t just seeing things because of your exhaustion or the current predicament you find yourself in.

The longer you are wrapped in his energy manipulation Evol and stare at his glowing right eye the more you begin to feel the Aether Core in your heart causing you agonizing pain in your chest. Compared to earlier, this pain in your torso is enough to bring tears to your eyes and you feel as if you just want to claw your heart out to rid your body of this insufferable pain.

With a curious expression Sylus tilts his head to the side and watches countless tears fall from your eyes. Because he has total control of his Evol he is one hundred percent sure he isn’t squeezing you tight enough to bring tears to your eyes and wonders why you are crying, but the moment you begin screaming loudly in pain a sudden surge of discomfort can be felt in his glowing right eye. “What the fu–” Blinking rapidly Sylus momentarily loses focus and almost drops your body down onto the woodland ground before refocusing his concentration and holding you within his energy tendrils again.

“It seems this little kitten is hiding a secret,” This time instead of holding your body tightly, Sylus ensures that his tendrils feel like a gentle caress against your skin. There is something familiar and comforting about being wrapped in his Evol energy, but you can’t place your finger on what exactly is so familiar about this. Nonetheless, you don’t have time to mentally shift through the varying theories in your mind as you start to feel yourself slip into a state of unconsciousness while your heart continuously beats as if it is going to burst out of your torso.

One. Inhale. Two. Exhale. Three. Fuck. FUCK! Cursing to yourself internally you attempt to use the methods from earlier to calm your heart back down but no matter how hard you try your heart insists on beating faster and faster. The pain at this point is too much to handle and you can no longer keep your body from drifting to a place of unconsciousness as your eyes grow heavy and your throat finally begins to feel the effects from all your blood-curdling screams.

Throughout your whole ordeal Sylus keeps his eyes on you until you are silent and breathing heavily while in a state of oblivion. Just like you, he feels there is a familiar energy about you that he is unable to pinpoint, and he wants to know the answer. He needs to know why the longer he stares at you and the longer he embraces you in his Evol you feel like… home?

While in a temporary coma, his eyes drift from your face and down your body until they land on your covered sternum He is tempted to reach out to touch the covered area when the sound of his two minions breaks him from his trance. Staring up at Luke and Kieran, Sylus pinches the bridge of his nose and lets out a disgruntled breath already mentally preparing for whatever nonsense the duo is going to put him through.

“Sorry we are late boss! Mephisto led us down the wrong path!” Luke pauses his explanation for him and his twin’s tardiness as he looks down at your body that’s comfortably laying in a tangled web of Sylus’ black and red tendrils. “Ooooo! Is this the pretty lady that useless bird told you about?”

Ignoring Lukes inquiry, Sylus looks down at you once more before lowering you down onto the woodland ground and glaring at the bubbling duo with a stern expression. “Make yourselves useful for once and carry her back to the base.”

Behind his crow mask Luke squints his eyes and places his hands on his hips. “But Boss… aren’t you the one with super cool powers?”

After tonight’s events Sylus can feel his patience growing thinner and thinner by the second and the last thing he wants to deal with are his two minions that often need to be threatened from time to time to complete simple tasks. “If either of you value your lives you will do as I say and bring this kitten back to the base.” Without another word he cast one last look at your sleeping form and one more lethal glare at Luke and Kieran before disappearing into the darkness.

“Boss sure is in a grumpy mood tonight. Oh well, come along kitty.”

“Luke, she’s not an actual kitten. And be quiet before you wake her up.”

“But look at her and how cute she is while she sleeps. Just like a kitty cat… I want to pet her.”

“Luke!”

Luke giggles as he gently picks you up and places you over his shoulder like a delicate sack of potatoes before looking over at his frustrated twin. Even though they both wear masks that conceal their faces and emotions, Luke can tell that Kieran is rolling his eyes at him while Kieran can tell that Luke has a silly grin plastered on his face. “Okayyyyyyyyy. Back home we gooooooo.”

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sillygoofyqueer · 4 months ago

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I’ve had a silly spin-off idea for crowyuan!

A while back @sunderwight suggested the possibility of Shen Yuan transmigrating as another heavenly demon (as a distant cousin or the like)… well how about Shen Yuan transmigrating as part heavenly crow demon!

I was reading about the Jinwu (golden three legged crows) that are said to be responsible for the sun. These crows were meant to take turns going across the sky, but one myth has them all deciding to go out at once one day, causing the earth to burn until all but one were shot down.

That certainly sounds like the sort of thing that would have someone cast down from the heavens, right? With that you get a bloodline of demonic crows that are in fact heavenly demon crows!

Imagine Shen Yuan transmigrating as some random demon (or half demon) crow that has nothing to do with the PIDW plot, and wondering about the oddity of his bright gold eyes, gold claws, and the golden edges/sheen of his otherwise ash black feathers. He also has a truly insane healing factor and a whole lot of fire and light related powers that were never mentioned as a crow thing. So weird!

This is FASCINATING!! I can't stop thinking about the idea of Shen Yuan just chilling out in the forest and contemplating about what a weird crow he is. He has no idea what he's even transmigrated as for the longest time, thinking that PIDW probably just filled in their own idea of crows because Airplane didn't go out of his way to describe them - far too focused upon the oddest ways to describe papapa to even think about the crows. He also could be surrounded by other demon crows (albeit not heavenly demon crows) so he doesn't question being able to transform into a human or anything - that must just be what demon crows can do in PIDW! Plus, they aren't even mentioned in the plot, meaning that he has no fear of being close to Binghe when he takes a dive into the abyss or even what happens afterwards! He's a demon crow!! He does what he wants with no repercussions from the demon emperor! Or- well, that's what he thinks. (the differences in appearance and abilities from demon crows is completely lost on him, it flies over his head with no sort of catching)

#four answers asks #crowyuan au #of the heavenly variety #this is such a fun twist!#Chewing on it #chewing HARD #scum villian self saving system #scum villain #svsss #svsss au #shen yuan #luo bingge #bingge

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asarigg · 13 days ago

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Character Design: Part 5

FEATHERS

Another detail I’d like to mention about his tattoo before moving on is that the peony tattoo was originally meant to be accompanied by leaves, but they changed this for the final design. Leaves make sense, they’re natural, but feathers?

Feathers alone seem to have no relevance in Japanese culture, but there are two relevant birds that have black plumage: cormorants and crows.

Cormorants are valued birds for their fish-hunting skills and were often trained to help fishermen. Therefore, they are a symbol of devotion and unceasing commitment to their master.

Crows are probably the first thing that comes to mind when we think of black feathers, and just like in other countries they can be associated with evil, but also with supernatural powers, and are considered messengers of the gods. It is commonly associated with fire and the sun, it is said that it was the only bird that can fly to the sun, and its feathers are black because they were marked by its rays.

They are often represented together with a white heron, like yin and yang, day and night, good and bad.

Within mythology we find Yatagarasu, a sacred crow that had three legs. Heaven, Earth and humanity. Yatagarasu is sent by a god (I think Amaterasu, but I’ve also read about Takami-musubi) to help humans, a symbol of guidance, of connection between the spiritual and physical world.

They were once associated with rebirth and rejuvenation, as they cleansed the land after a battle. Rebirth after a tragedy. It was believed they carried the souls of the deceased, similar to butterflies, to the next plane of existence. In art they often represent death, the passing of time. Apparently they’re also sparrows’ natural enemies.

In short, each element of this poisoned tattoo only seems to be mockery after mockery on Ryuuhou’s part, a representation of what he knows will happen. The similarity of the tribal to birds, the meaning of peonies, the seed syllable inside the bird on his arm, and now the feathers as an addition to Koujaku’s virtues or as a premonition of death and tragedy. Death and destruction are carved all over his body. (He’s terrified of it, and avoids it, but Sly seeks it)

HAIR

Now let’s move on to hair. Hair is a symbol of spiritual power in many cultures around the world. As we’ve seen before in the sutra it is associated with Buddha, and by extension it is also associated with Koujaku, who’s a hairstylist and dedicates his life to cutting and controlling hair.

In ancient Japan, hair was a gift from god, it has been identified as a special focus of spiritual power and personality. The longer the better, it’s like it remembers thoughts and emotions, our identity. For this reason there are various ways in which social status is tied to hair too. It’s also used to curse people. There is a hair kami at the Arashiyama Kamigami shrine if I’m not mistaken, and you can make an offering by cutting a lock of your hair. In Sumo, when a fighter retired, they would ceremonially cut it.

Hair has been used and incorporated into Buddha embroidery as a way of forging a link between the worshipper and the Buddha depicted. Locks of hair can be seen at the doors of the Izumo shrine, which specializes in marriage. There are also stories of women who let their hair down when they go to sleep and the hair turns into snakes, poisonous desire, repressed during the day. There are other folkloric practices and beliefs about women’s hair, for example ship captains carrying part of their wives’ or daughters’ hair on board as a protective talisman.

In some communities, it is believed that a shaman’s powers, which allow her to negotiate between the worlds of the living and the dead, were located in her long, loose hair, a sacred connection with the gods, the darker and the longer the better.

For Koujaku, Aoba’s hair is sacred, extremely valuable. He had wanted to cut it for years, we see how excited he is when he touches and kisses it, and when he is finally able to fulfill his dream he carefully keeps one of his locks wrapped in a piece of paper inside a paulownia wood box. For him, his hair is an amulet, it is good luck, it is extremely symbolic of who Aoba is (and who wouldn’t remember him as the dude with blue hair, one of the key features of his design, as well as the very peculiar characteristics that the developers gave it) and what he means to Koujaku.

The lock of Aoba’s hair is a direct connection to him, no matter how far away he is or how long it takes them to see each other again, he will always have this amulet with him. He is a devotee of Aoba, Koujaku adores him and loves him intensely, and it is not unusual to think that this devotion takes on an even religious aspect, as if Aoba was divine, a god.

In Tibetan Buddhism they paint Buddha’s hair blue.

Koujaku's hair is tied up like a miko's, with a cylinder or strap of white paper and red knot. They also use a miko styled paper for Aoba's hairstyle in an illustration and the figure.

Paulownia wood is associated with nobility, fertility, good fortune and happiness. Paulownia is a tree that was often planted when a girl was born. Wealthy families would plant up to three trees, and when the girl grew up and was time to get married, the family would cut down the tree and make a chest and other items out of the wood to give to her on her wedding day. The kimono was meant to be stored in good quality wood to preserve it, and this wood naturally repels insects. It’s also used for instruments.

Another detail about Koujaku’s hairstyle is that his hairpin looks like a shamisen.

Trying to protect his mother from his father and legal wife only caused her more pain, so instead he tried to do something else. She’s so happy about the gift, and the wishes of her son to help her fill her with joy, but she knows that’s impossible. He’s only a kid, so she just smiles, without being able to reply. Honestly, given that this was a gift he made to his mother to brighten her day, I wonder if it could be related to her tastes, especially considering that the most common are simple or with floral decoration. We don’t know almost anything about her, her name, appearance, what she liked to do or to dress like, what she taught Koujaku to raise him, etc…

So seeing this I wouldn’t be surprised if his mother actually played this instrument and maybe taught her son. The point is that this illustration exists.

A Tumblr user recently mentioned it on her post.

GOOD LUCK

Another piece of his design are these bracelets he wears on both hands. These bracelets are prayer beads, called Nenju or Juzu. Originally used in Buddhism to help with meditation by counting prayers, 108 beads are used representing the 108 earthly desires that one seeks to overcome in order to reach enlightenment, used to purify body and mind and express devotion to Buddha. They are used as protection as well. There are versions with fewer beads, 18, 27, 36 or 54, although there’s no fixed amount as many times it depends on the length and size of the beads, sometimes they carry a magatama. Women’s version usually has smaller beads and have more decorative colors, there are versions for children too. Beni’s necklace to me is just a kids version Koujaku bought for him to be honest…

Formal prayer beads also vary their appearance depending on the sect and it would be preferred that the person you marry belongs to the same sect. The tassels can also vary their shape. When these beads are damaged or can no longer serve their purpose, they are ritually burned on an altar where they are thanked for their service along with other amulets and get destroyed. Many people use them in funerals since most are held by Buddhists.

The ones that Koujaku wears in the shape of a bracelet are short, with two hanging tassels, the ones he’s using are 頭付房, I’m not sure how this translates but seems something like tassel with head/head tassel. Made to be more comfortable to carry anywhere, taking up less space or in a casual fashion. I like thinking he has formal Buddhist prayer beads kept somewhere for when he wants to pray for the people he knows.

The knot on his neck and the one in the decoration of his hair is a kiku knot, chrysanthemum knot, with two tassels hanging too. It’s also the type Shiroba/Sly uses in the bad ending. We’ve already seen what the chrysanthemum means. This knot is theorized to be a variation of a Buddhist knot, the endless knot, as a representation of Buddha’s infinite wisdom. In Tibetan Buddhism it symbolises Samsara, a never ending cycle. There are a few other interpretations.

Knots with tassels like this (総角房) would also be used in samurai helmets as a good luck charm, and it’s the type he has on his sword, not the chrysanthemum one.

We don’t really see or hear about Koujaku performing any religious practices during the story, except attending the festivals that everyone else goes to out of custom rather than a religious devotion. But I wouldn’t find it strange if he did it in the privacy of his home to try to attract luck in his life and try to separate himself from the beast, to be a good person and pray for his mother. After all, cultural and religious references are everywhere, and he himself wonders about the existence of souls, implying a much more spiritual understanding of life on his part.

Red is the first thing that catches your eye when you look at his design, and it’s a very important color in shintoism and is used in shrines everywhere, in clothes, buildings, torii gates, amulets, etc. It’s a color related to luck, the sacred, that coexists in balance with white. It’s love and passion, and it’s evil and blood. These dualities are present everywhere, both in his design and in his story.

#dmmd #koujaku #aoba seragaki #dramatical murder #aoba #kouao #koujaku dmmd #essay

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twst-drabbles · 10 months ago

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Octavinelle 17

Summary: A stranger approaches you while you're relaxing on the beach. Your large seafolk don't really take to people just coming up to you all that well.

(My brain is all over the place again. Writing a little bit of everything. Have patience and enjoy the seafolk intimidating peeps with their large forms. I have written, so many words!)

That pocket dimension back home was a strange thing indeed. There wasn't really a surface to breach, nor was there a beach to lay on. It was just water in all directions, no matter how far one goes.

So, with the help of some potions and other magical things, you took the seafolk right into an odd beach that you're more than sure Crowley made somehow. You don't know how, but it had crow shape stones sitting on top of a boulder, so you know he did something.

Well, either way, this place was yours for the playing and the relaxing with.

As soon as you set up the towel and umbrella, all of the seafolk carefully set into the water before they all just dove in.

Azul sank deep into the water as soon as he morphed into his true form, just making bubbles with his lips while he sat there and enjoyed the sun.

Jade seemed to be carving into a raised rock in the water with his claw. He always seems to be busying himself with various little projects and hobbies. Likes to keep his hands busy when he can, for one reason or another.

And Floyd was, well, being Floyd. He was diving to the bottom and seems to be digging for things. Clams, sand-dollars, dead starfish. And just when you weren't paying attention to him, he threw wet sand and seaweed right at your knees.

You didn't exactly come to the beach for yourself to be perfectly honest. Sure, the waters are crystal clear and the weather was just perfect, but it was just one of those days where you simply want to bask in the sun, take in the sea-salt smell and listen to the waves as the seafolk played among themselves.

"Uh, hey! Excuse me," then, an unfamiliar voice interrupted your daydreaming. "Is this spot taken?"

A stranger has made there way here. In a place with clear signs that this was a private beach.

You gave a sigh and pushed yourself up.

"Yeah, spot's taken," you waved behind you, "might want to go elsewhere. It's a private beach."

"Wait, really? Well, can I stay? It's not like you anyone needs to know. You don't really need all this space to yourself right? See, it's my kid's birthday and I wanted to bring the family somewhere really special and--"

Then, there was a dual harsh clicking, right from the throats of Jade and Floyd as they crawled from the waters they were just splashing around in. Jade came to your right side, Floyd covered your left. Water dripped off of them both and right onto your skin.

"…holy--"

A hand landed gently dug its gray fingers into sand and your once guppy dragged himself out of the ever-deep ocean. Deliberately slow, both to not make the waves blanket you while you're relaxing under the shade and also to establish a presence.

You would scold him, but Azul's entirely too in character to really listen. He, Jade and Floyd. Look at them all. Jade was curling his large tail this was and that around your legs to truly make his size and length known. Floyd was grinning and looked three seconds away from slithering right up to this stranger and squeezing him just for the fun of it. And Azul…

Azul didn't do anything besides plop his chin on his folded hands, oh so politely lowering himself just to meet the gaze of this stranger who wandered into this spot snagged. His smile wasn't wide but it was there. Empty, not a shred of warmth in there, but charming to those that don't know him.

"My, I wasn't expecting a guest at all, especially not on this private part of the beach," without the water and layers of barrier to separate you all, Azul's voice was sharper than you're used to. Weird. "Had I known ahead of time that strangers were prone to just wandering into places they're not supposed to be, I would've prepared some entertainment."

Ah. He's angry. Just angry and annoyed. Doesn't see this person as any sort of threat or danger, otherwise there wouldn't be any words. There would only be odd masterfully manipulated waves as they avoid you, but drag this stranger under into the dark depths of the sea.

"Should I do the honors and receive this guest?" Jade gave a wide smile, baring his teeth, "I'll be sure to give them the warmest of welcomes."

"Oh come on, isn't it my turn this time?" Floyd clapped a hand on Jade's shoulder, "I'm sure this little slug could do with some squeezing."

"Stop that," you sighed out, kicking Jade's and Floyd's tail off of your legs. Ugh, they're all slimed up. You didn't get up, just lifted your head to look at the slowly retreating stranger, "Yeah, you might want to leave. Public beach is a ways down from here. Hope you can snag a spot for the birthday celebration."

"Thank you so much sorry to bother you have a nice day!" Apparently that was all the permission they needed to make a mad dash out of here. Well, as much one could dash on dry sand and sandals.

"Oh dear, they tripped," Jade noted, "should I help them up?"

"Jade," you warned.

"I'm joking, dear Caretaker," he injected a lot of fondness in that sentence.

But yeah, a joke. Sure.

"Alright, now then," Azul, let the facade drop and rolled his shoulders, not used to his true weight on land, "let's leave the Caretaker to their relaxing while we take a swim, shall we?"

"Huh?" Floyd, not in the mood, flopped over right over your thighs. You made a noise of discomfort, heavy as he was, but Floyd ignored you. "I don't wanna. I'm tired of just swimming and hunting."

"Really now, why must you be like this?" Azul sighed, tired of his antics, but then something caught his eye in the distance, "Would you say no to chasing boats?"

Now that caught his attention. "Oh? Where? Let me see."

"There, that red dot in the distance," Azul didn't finish before Floyd dragged himself back into the water. He speed off and soon was out of line of sight.

"Hmm, I wonder if they'll have anything interesting on their vessel," Jade follows after, a little slower.

"Azul," you called to him before he could sink back under, "come here."

Just his face alone was enough to give you all the shade you needed and more. He leaned in close, wanting to hear every word that comes out of you.

"Yes?"

"Make sure none of you get into legal trouble," because attempting to stop any all trouble all together was just not going to happen. May as well just settle for this instead so it doesn't go back to you.

Azul gave the softest of laughs. "Well, if that boat is so willing to risk fishing in protected waters, then they shouldn't be afraid of the consequences that may happen. Of what may lurk in the seas they treat as an untouched treasury."

"Azul."

"Fine fine, but I won't make promises."

Eh, that's enough for you. Trying is better than nothing.

#twst #twisted wonderland #twst-drabbles #twst-drabbles exclusive #drabble #octavinelle #azul #azul ashengrotto #jade #jade leech #floyd #floyd leech #sanctuary au #reader insert

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chickenkurage · 4 months ago

Text

You’re not you when you’re hungry. Grab a snickers. (Farmer AU)

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Where in, DJ’s code is really old, so he gets confused sometimes. In short he loses control and becomes a bit aggressive, luckily Alan and his apple kids is there to fix him up (just some bitch slapping and cuddling, you decide who did what)

Tag: Comedy, Humor, Hurt/Comfort, Mild Violence and Fluff.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

"Red! No!" DJ exclaimed as he knelt beside the red apple, swiftly scooping him up in his arms and shooing away a crow poised to take a bite. "Meep! Meep!" Red cried, squirming in his embrace and nestling against his neck, his tiny form trembling.

"Aww, Red, it's okay. Relax, I've got you," DJ murmured soothingly, giving Red a gentle pat on the head. "Meep," Red chirped again, wriggling toward DJ's neckerchief and seeking refuge beneath it, eliciting giggles from DJ. "Red, that tickles," DJ chuckled, slipping his hand into his neckerchief and retrieving the red apple.

"Meep meep!" Red exclaimed joyfully, bobbing his head happily.

"Hah! You're adorable," DJ remarked as he cradled Red, heading back towards the farmhouse. He caught sight of Cho and Dark lounging in a rocking chair on the front porch, peacefully dozing under the warm sun.

"Look at them snuggled up," DJ whispered, glancing down at Red, who observed the two pineapples cuddling.

"Wait, I have to take a photo," DJ exclaimed, swiftly reaching into the pocket of his jumper and retrieving his phone. He opened the camera app and snapped multiple pictures of the dozing pineapples.

"Look at them," DJ remarked, showing the screen to Red, who gleefully waved his arms up and down in agreement.

"DJ? Are you done with work already?" Alan inquired, approaching with dirt-covered legs and arms, holding Sec in his arms, who looks equally dirt-covered as Alan. "Not yet, but Red here had a close call with a crow, so I think he should stay indoors for now," DJ explained, his expression furrowed in concern.

"Oh, that's not good. I should probably bring Cho and Dark inside too," Alan suggested, nibbling on his lip as he glanced at the two pineapples peacefully napping in the rocking chair. "Perhaps we do need a scarecrow," DJ mused, heading towards the front door. He kicked off his dirty boots before stepping inside.

Alan grunted and followed DJ inside, carrying Cho, Dark, and Sec in his arms, he mused, "Maybe." Placing the three pineapples on the couch, he then made his way to his room. "Anyways, I need a bath; I'm covered in dirt," Alan remarked, waving to DJ with a peace sign before ascending the stairs.

"'Kay," DJ replied, letting Red bounce off his arm towards Sec, who joyfully embraced him. "Oh, my heart," DJ chuckled, watching as Sec pulled Red towards Dark and Cho, who appeared to be engaged in a silent exchange.

"Maybe that's their way of communicating?" DJ pondered, tilting his head.

"Hmm, where are the others? Yellow? Blue? Green? Vic?" DJ called out as he strolled towards the kitchen, wearing a puzzled expression.

"There you are! What are you all up to here?" DJ inquired with a laugh, bending over to peer under the table. He spotted Green and Yellow laying over Blue, while Vic stood towering above them all.

The fruits turned to gaze at DJ, who felt a bead of sweat trickle down his forehead.

"Alright then... I'll let you guys do your thing," DJ said with a grin, rising to his feet and sauntering towards the fridge to retrieve some cold water.

Humming a tune, he fetched a glass, poured the water, and downed it in one go, releasing a contented sigh. He fanned himself lightly before rinsing the glass and leaving it on a drying rack.

"Chip! Chip," Vic chirped, waddling over and tapping DJ's leg with his stubby arms. "What's going on?" DJ inquired, tilting his head as he knelt down to meet Vic's gaze.

Vic simply stared up at DJ before attempting to climb his knees, struggling to hoist himself up by grabbing onto DJ's jumper.

Amused, DJ chuckled and lifted Vic, cradling him in his arms as the gray pineapple clung excitedly to the front of his jumper. "Alright, alright," DJ laughed, bouncing Vic gently as he rose and ambled towards the living room.

Suddenly, a pounding headache gripped DJ, causing him to pause and groan, his hand instinctively reaching for his throbbing head. "Chip?" Vic tilted his head, gazing up at DJ with a perplexed expression.

"H-huh? I'm fine, just a bit of a headache. Probably the heat. Here, sit with Sec and Red," DJ explained as he gently settled Vic on the couch next to the other fruits.

"Chip?" Sec cocked his head, glancing between Vic and DJ, who seemed to be struggling.

"Ugh, perhaps the heat is getting to me," DJ groaned, massaging his temples and removing his glasses to rub his eyes. As he did so, his vision momentarily clouded, a fleeting moment where everything appeared red and distorted. Startled, he shook his head in confusion, rubbing his eyes and focusing on the puzzled gazes of Vic and Sec, who were watching him intently.

DJ staggered towards the stairs, his head still pounding as he weakly called out, "A-Alan?" His hand clung to the wall for support, his vision swirling, prompting another groan of discomfort.

Amidst a cacophony of chirps and meeps, everything around him began to tint red, an overwhelming sensation washing over him, sending his senses into a frenzy.

“Chip?” Cho chirped, gazing up at DJ with concern, hopping off the couch to get a better look at him.

“Chip?!” Cho exclaimed, stepping back in surprise as DJ let out a low growl. "W-what are you? What kind of code are you? Must... clean…" DJ muttered dazedly, his fists clenching tightly.

Sensing the danger, Dark hopped off the couch and swiftly grabbed Cho's arm, yanking him out of harm's way just in time to avoid a powerful stomp that shattered the wooden floorboards.

“Meep!!” Red cried out in panic, flailing his arms as Sec swiftly grabbed him, pulling him to safety.

“G-get back here!” DJ growled, his demeanor unsettling, causing Cho and Dark to emit loud, anxious chirps as they gazed up at him, noticing a strange red hue in his eyes.

Before they could react, a sudden purple blur intervened, pushing DJ away and causing the dark orange figure to land heavily on his back with a pained grunt.

“DJ! What the hell are you doing?” Alan's voice cut through the tension, water droplets still dripping from his head as he stared at DJ with disbelief. “Chip! Chip!” Dark and Cho scuttled behind Alan's legs, seeking refuge in fear.

“What's going on with you?” Alan demanded, furrowing his brow as DJ struggled to regain his composure, his gaze unfocused.

Alan's expression shifted, a sense of recognition dawning on him. “Not again. Cho, Dark, go hide somewhere safe. Take the others with you,” Alan instructed, casting a concerned look towards the two pineapples.

Cho nodded in understanding and quickly took Dark's arm, leading him away to find a safe hiding spot.

“Clean... Clean orders,” DJ murmured, his hand pressed against his head, a mix of confusion and pain evident on his face.

“DJ... it's me, Alan. Do you remember?” Alan spoke softly, cautiously approaching the troubled dark orange figure.

“Hnn Alan? Who? Where... orders, I have orders, have to follow,” DJ muttered, his demeanor conflicted as he suddenly lunged towards Alan, a look of determination in his eyes.

“DJ!” Alan exclaimed, moving swiftly to intercept DJ's punch, grabbing his arm just in time.

Growling, DJ raised his other hand, attempting another strike that Alan effortlessly blocked.

“DJ! Snap out of it! It's that damned code, isn't it?” Alan's voice was firm as he pushed back against DJ's relentless assault, his feet sliding on the floor. “Wake up, DJ. I don't want to fight you. We've moved past that,” Alan growled, his fist clenched in frustration.

DJ remained unresponsive, his gaze unfocused and distant, caught in the grip of some unseen force.

“You need to stop, you’re gonna hurt yourself at this po-” Alan's warning was cut short as DJ swiftly closed the distance between them, seizing the front of Alan's shirt and hurling him upwards with such force that the roof shattered, sending Alan crashing back down, in front of the house with a resounding thud.

“Ow! Creators above!” Alan groaned, wincing as he sat up, his hand supporting his aching back.

A hand clenched Alan's shirt once more, compelling him to meet the emotionless gaze of DJ. What caught Alan's attention most were DJ's eyes—devoid of emotion, his pupils flickering and shifting through a spectrum of colors.

“Damn the code,” Alan muttered under his breath before swiftly taking action, grabbing DJ's wrist and deftly flipping him over, pinning him down with a knee pressed firmly against his back.

“DJ, please, come on, wake the hell up,” Alan urged, applying pressure as DJ clawed at the soil, growling in defiance. “DJ! Snap out of it! Wake the hell up, you idiot!” Alan's voice filled with desperation, he turned DJ onto his back and delivered a sharp slap, knocking DJ's glasses askew.

“Achk! Alan?!” DJ cried out, his hand flying to his stinging cheek.

“DJ? Oh, thank the creators, you’re back,” Alan breathed a sigh of relief, easing off DJ's chest. “What happened? My head is killing me, and my back too,” DJ whimpered, a tear escaping his eye as he sat up, pressing a hand to his throbbing head.

“Your code is acting up again. I really think you should let me fix that,” Alan suggested with a furrowed brow, bending down to retrieve DJ's glasses from the floor and handing them back to him.

“Oh no! Did... Did I hurt the kids?” DJ's voice quivered with panic, his hand trembling as he covered his face, curling into a protective ball.

“What? No, you didn't. I intervened before anything serious happened. Thank goodness when these glitches occur, you never seem to retain your fighting skills, or else the house would've been in shambles,” Alan remarked with a light-hearted tone, kneeling beside DJ.

DJ, overwhelmed with emotions, buried his head under his arms, his remorse palpable in the air.

“I feel like a terrible friend and a terrible dad. I'm sorry, Alan. Did I hurt you?” DJ's voice quivered as he sniffled, seeking reassurance.

“You didn’t even manage to scratch me,” Alan reassured with a smirk, patting DJ's shoulder gently.

“Still... they’re going to be scared of me... this hasn't happened in a while. Usually, I only get migraines at best,” DJ pouted, his guilt weighing heavily on him. Alan then took DJ by the shoulders and pulled him into a comforting hug.

“It's alright. We'll explain it to them. I'm sure they'll understand... and about the roof... you have to fix that,” Alan reminded, prompting a chuckle from DJ as he leaned back, wiping the tears from his eyes.

“What happened? Did I throw you through the roof or something?” DJ asked in disbelief, his memory still hazy from the glitch.

“You did. Now, it's your turn to fix it as payback for tossing me out of my own house,” Alan teased with a grin.

“Now get up and let’s head back inside. I need another bath,” Alan said, eyeing his dirtied shirt from the fall.

With a groan and aching head, DJ struggled to his feet. Alan reached down, offering a helping hand. “Thanks, Alan. If it weren't for you... I might have really hurt them,” DJ admitted, a frown etched on his face as they slowly made their way back into the house, wincing at the sight of the broken roof.

“Meep! Meep!” Red chirped excitedly, bouncing over DJ's feet.

“Oh Red... uhm... I'm sorry,” DJ murmured, tears streaming down his cheeks.

“Meep!” Red exclaimed, taken aback by the sudden display of emotion from the normally composed dark orange figure.

“Ah, don't worry, Red. He gets like that when he's feeling really under the weather. Come on, let's get him to his room,” Alan reassured, offering a small smile as he supported DJ, whose legs wobbled slightly. Red followed closely, bouncing along, while Sec trailed behind, looking visibly concerned.

“Hey, Sec,” Alan greeted as he carefully guided DJ to his bed, helping him lie down.

“Nnn,” DJ groaned, his hand pressed against his throbbing head as he turned away, seeking some relief. “Chip?” Sec tilted his head, gazing up at Alan with a worried expression, then pointing towards DJ with a mix of concern and curiosity.

Alan sighed, “He has these moments sometimes where... his code, you're aware of that, right?” Both Red and Sec nodded in understanding.

“His code is really old, and sometimes it gets confused. Usually, he gets sick or gets migraines from resisting it, but this time it seems like he didn't even get the chance to resist before it completely took over him,” Alan explained, his expression clouded with concern.

“Meep? Meep! Meep!” Red waved his arm up and down in frustration before hopping off the bed's edge, attempting to pull himself up by grabbing the sheets.

Sec hurriedly rushed behind Red, giving him a gentle push to help him climb onto the bed. Red bounced over to DJ, who was still groaning in pain, his face contorted with discomfort. “Meep...” Red chirped softly, placing a comforting hand on DJ's arm, prompting the dark orange to slowly open his tired eyes and gaze at him wearily.

“Hey, Red... I'm sorry you had to witness that,” DJ mumbled, his eyes drooping with fatigue.

Red let out a sad whimper and nestled against DJ's arm. “How about you rest? I'll gather your other kids to watch over you while I whip up something for you,” Alan suggested, picking up Sec from the floor and turning towards DJ.

“Mm, okay,” DJ agreed, curling his arm around Red and closing his eyes, seeking some much-needed rest.

[♡]

“Meep?” Blue tilted his head curiously while Yellow peered over DJ, who was resting peacefully, his breathing slow and steady. “Meep Meep,” Green exclaimed, waving his hands in excitement before breaking into a cheerful tune.

Red perked up, joining in with his own melody. Soon, the room was filled with a soft, harmonious tune, gently rousing DJ from his slumber. He chuckled as he noticed the four apples perched on his pillow, their gazes fixed on him intently.

“You guys are so cute,” DJ remarked, reaching out to tickle Yellow, who let out a small shriek before darting off to the side of the bed with an indignant meep. “Hah,” DJ laughed softly, slowly sitting up. Green and Blue bounded over, settling in his lap and bouncing around with excitement.

“Whoa, what's gotten you guys so thrilled?” DJ inquired with a grin, rubbing the back of his neck. Beside him, Red let out a happy meep before wrapping his stubby arms around DJ's side, eliciting a light giggle. “Aww, you guys,” DJ cooed, as Yellow bounced back towards him, joining Green and Blue in his lap where they now snuggled up together.

“Oh, damn it, where’s my phone?” DJ exclaimed, a hint of panic in his voice, as he watched Red join the small dog pile on his lap. He patted his pockets frantically, letting out a sad whine when he couldn't locate his phone.

“Looking for this?” Alan's voice came from the doorway as he waved DJ’s phone in the air. “Yes!” DJ exclaimed in relief, only to flinch when he felt the apples shift in his lap, before they settled back, already drifting off to sleep. “Here you go,” Alan said, walking over to DJ and handing him his phone.

“Yes, yes!” DJ cheered softly, snapping a few photos of the cozy dog pile before letting out a contented sigh. “I'm actually here to take you out to eat with me, but it seems like you're quite busy with your 'kids,' huh?” Alan remarked with a playful tilt of his head.

“Yeah, I don't want to move just yet,” DJ replied with a grin, glancing back down as he felt Blue shifting around under the pile. “Alright, but before 6 PM rolls around, I'm dragging you out for a meal, okay?” Alan declared.

DJ gave him a thumbs up, still beaming. “Gotcha,”.

"Good,” Alan said with a small smile, placing a reassuring hand on DJ’s shoulder.

“Uhm, about the roof... I will really fix that!” DJ said with a furrowed brow, rubbing the back of his head. “I-I know we agreed no more fighting between us, so I’m really sorry about earlier. I just—” DJ started, only to be interrupted by Alan's embrace, the latter patting his back gently.

“Relax, man. Why are you so worked up? It's no biggie,” Alan reassured, as DJ pouted and returned the hug tightly. “If you say so, man,” DJ replied, easing back as Alan did the same. “Yeah, totally. I know that wasn't really you,” Alan added, letting out a chuckle.

“What?” DJ tilted his head, puzzled by Alan's laughter.

“You're not you when you're hungry. Grab a Snickers,” Alan quipped again, before covering his mouth to stifle his laughter, while DJ let out a sigh. “Good one, Alan,” DJ mumbled, a faint smile playing on his lips.

#animation vs animator #alan becker #ava au #FAlanBecker #FDJWelch #ava gold #ava yellow #ava red #ava blue #ava green #ava tsc #ava tco #ava tdl #ava victim #ava #Spongey'sFic

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chaobunnyarts · 2 years ago

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Creatures from Chinese mythology (Moon Rabbit, Sun Crow, Pixiu, Qilin) (1/3)

Moon Rabbit: The Moon Rabbit is the companion of the moon goddess, Chang’e. If you look at the full moon, you can see the Moon Rabbit working hard mixing up an elixir of immortality in its mortar.

Sun Crow: The Sun crow, also known as the Sanzuwu, is a three-legged crow that carries the sun. In ancient times, there were ten sun crows that carried ten separate suns. The ten Sun Crows each took turns ushering in the day, until one day where they all decided to rise at once, causing a great calamity!

Pixiu: The Pixiu are auspicious creatures that draw in good fortune (both of the luck variety and the gold variety) and ward off evil spirits. Their diet is made up of gold and precious gemstones.

Qilin:

Qilin are benevolent, mystical beasts wreathed in flame and smoke. They are said to walk on clouds to avoid harming even a single blade of grass. Its name is often translated as “unicorn” in English, and it is known as the Kirin in Japanese.

Fun fact! The image of the Qilin was at one point associated with that of the giraffe due to their similarities (giraffes have hooves and long legs like the Qilin, giraffes’ ossicones look like horns, and giraffe spots resemble a Qilin’s scales).

#chinese mythology #mythology #moon rabbit #sun crow #pixiu #qilin #sanzuwu

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staratie · 1 year ago

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sad prompt: when the daylight comes i’ll have to go

sfw, moodboard i’m listening to the song (daylight by maroon 5) and this hc popped in my head. summary: due to unfortunate circumstances, you and your pirate have only one day to spend together.

Zoro

It was heartbreaking news. He was normally calm and even tempered, but knowing this pushed buttons. He was sad. Devastated to be specific, but he wouldn’t admit that.

“What do you want to do?” He asks quietly. Looking at the horizon, you took his hand and walked together down the beach. The sun was setting slowly as you two sat down.

Zoro had his large hands over yours as he rested his head on your shoulder, sighing into your skin. He closes his eyes and murmurs, “can we stay like this? Just for a minute.”

You nod your head. Both of you sat there, looking at the setting sun. Quiet words exchanged, small kisses, and cuddles were your activities for the night.

Sanji

“You serious?” he whispered, gently grabbing your chin with his fingers. “One day?” He has a solemn look when you nodded your head. He knew your time together was short, but he didn’t expect it to end so quickly.

“I-I don’t know what to do.” He says quietly. “I didn’t think that this day would come now.”

Both of you held hands as you sat on the harbor, legs dangling over the edge.

Giving you a small smile, Sanji took off his top, and jumped into the water. He playfully motioned for you to join him, and you happily agreed. The water was the perfect temperature for splashing around, play swim tag, and the romantic holding-each-other-close-in-the-sunset kiss.

When you two dried off, you warmed up in the ship and snuggled.

Luffy

His eyes widened when you told him. He looked down when you explained the situation. While you spoke, he slowly took your hand and drew you closer. When you asked what was wrong, he said, “Keep talking, please. I like your voice. If this is our last day together, I want to listen to it until we have to leave.”

Giving him a smile, both of you talked the whole night away.

It was a simple night for both of you. You conversed, talking about adventures to come, your future lives, anything you had planned, getting more crew members...Luffy wanted to hear as much of your voice as possible.

After having dinner (and more conversation), you two were at the crows nest, barely hanging on. You knew he’d catch you if you fell. Of course, you probably would just for him to hear you playfully scream for help one last time.

Usopp

At first he’d laugh it off, taking it as a joke. “You’re kidding, right?” One day together? That was ridiculous! It took him a while to accept that it wasn’t one.

You two were hanging out in a tavern, drinking beer and enjoying each other’s company with a friendly drinking competition along with snacks.

You told Usopp you’ll miss his stories of how he bested three pirates singlehandedly with his speed and slingshot, fighting off that darn shark, and other crazy stuff.

Both of you shared laughs, joked around, and had a mega cuddle session back at the ship. Both of you wanted to have as much fun as possible with each other, knowing that his adventures with them would be a little different after daylight.

#one piece #one piece live action #roronoa zoro x reader #sanji x reader #vinsmoke sanji x reader #luffy x reader #zoro x reader #one piece headcanons #usopp x reader #angst angst angst #monkey d. luffy headcanons #monkey d. luffy x reader #on queue

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dawnoftime22 · 6 months ago

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a long journey.

| T.S

Warnings: a sensitive topic for some people, talk of not existing, crying (happy tears), the coming to a realization of a long journey of life, words that may prick your eyes with tears

Summary: After so long of fighting your battles, you were finally releasing everything and calming down, and you couldn't help but let out all the tears you've ever held with Taylor.

Word Count: 1.3k

Category: comfort, fluff

A/N: this was made with tears and I can't bare to proofread it so I very much apologise if it's rough on some parts<3 also! a reminder for all of you, that today is the last day for requests for taylor! I have three in the works right now on the way :]

P.S, listening to epiphany or even folklore while writing this was not a smart idea...

| Started on 02/07/2024, 8:30 PM |

| Finished on 14/07/2024, 6:25 PM |

Main Masterlist | T.S Masterlist

seven days of comfort.

“To acknowledge yourself and anything else, that, truly, is a brave thing to do.”

|——————————— ⸆⸉ ———————————|

The wind was meeting your skin, ever so gently tracing each outline it could reach, as you let out a gentle sigh.

Over in the blue distance, you could see birds, minding their own businesses, flying in a flock, or sitting perched up by the side of a rooftop.

The crows were cawing, but the other birds were chirping. Their tunes almost match the melodies of your girlfriend's, but varying in each of their own style.

You were standing at the balcony of Taylor's apartment, leaning against the rails with your arms loosely hanging off the side, the cool air making the hair on your skin rise just slightly.

Taylor was inside, standing by the kitchen counters, preparing tea for the both of you since you had agreed on spending time outside, but not entirely leaving home.

Your eyes stare off into the sinking sun, watching it go down. Its grace held the ability to change the sky's color, mixing shades of oranges and pink.

In the peacefulness of everything, you couldn't help but let your mind stray away, but not as far that it would enter a fog you could get lost in.

There were so many memories you could remember off the top of your head. All the interactions, compliments, and gestures thats been shared across strangers and people you know.

Your breathing was steady, but as you spaced out, you noticed the way you were breathing, and now you had to do it manually as you thought about it all.

The past. The past can be a reflection, too. It can't only stay in its form of grieving for something that once was, or something that was supposed to be, but never was. You couldn't stay that way forever, because it would only lead to more broken feelings.

To let go, is to relieve yourself of everything you've longed to put down. Even the weight on your shoulders that you could never truly realize was there.

You look down in your lap. Your hands were just sitting there, instead of clutching your heart. And your legs, they weren't curled up in a vulnerable position. What reason did they have to be? To let out your emotions sure, but as of right now, living freely and relaxed is what they should be doing.

You can notice every mark and crack, left upon the walls, the coffee table, the couch, even the rust on parts of the metal rail, all being small evidences of history. Your eyes traced every single one of them.

Each turn and direction you took in your life, it all led to this. A feeling of contentment and happiness. The simple thought of how long it took you to even reach to such a point had a swell building in your throat.

With the inhale of a gentle breath, you feel your eyes starting its part of pooling all the tears it had. You tried to blink it away, but the feeling was far too overcoming, going in without a warning. Everything was coming to realization, everything thats been needing to be parted away without any more judgement.

It was like the wind running through your hair with its breeze, or the ocean waves kissing the sand onshore, slowly washing away traces of anything, and then retreating. It was washing your entire soul down, coming in to cleanse your mind.

Just as you were slowly feeling your heart spilling its pent up tiredness, the scent of newly brewed tea was filling the area, and Taylor was gently stepping out to the balcony, holding two full mugs.

She sets them down on the table that sit at the balcony, a small content smile present on her face. But then, she hears a soft sniffle beside her, and she turns her head, her expressions fading into concern.

It was then, you feel the warm tears freely run from your eyes. Her heart skips a beat, and she was thankfully mindful enough to be careful in not hitting her hand against the mugs as she quickly goes to you, stepping closer.

"Baby...hey, what's wrong, sweetheart?" Taylor whispers, her hand coming up to cradle your face, her thumb moving to gently wipe away your tears.

Her eyes saw your shining ones, and concern filled her as she wondered what could have possibly made you cry, especially since you seemed so at peace when she checked earlier.

"Nothing...I'm just..." you start, nibbling on your lips as you faced her fully. Her eyes were gentle and caring, only a hint of worry being the other thing present.

"I'm happy," you whispered. Taylor's expressions softened as she let out a breath of relief, seeing the situation come to a brighter light.

"It's just been so long since its been this good." You admitted softly with a chuckle, but sniffling once more, which causes her to bring you into a warm embrace, her own eyes brimming with tears that were threatening to fall.

She kisses your head softly, then nuzzles her face into your hair and squeeze you gently. "I'm glad, baby..." She says as she pulled back, her own voice shaking with emotion.

She's seen you go through so many things, things that not many people manage to handle, and she was so, so proud of you.

To think that it could have happened any other way, was heartbreaking to her. And with her gathered up tears in her eyes, it showed just how honest she was.

"I hope you know I love you. I care for you. And you always deserve everything good you get." She says, her hands going down to your shoulders. The gentle squeeze mixed in with her words was enough to have you fully present in the moment, if the wind on your face wasn't enough.

"Even if you don't feel like you do...please, remember that you do." Her hands went to your waist. Her aim was not only to comfort you, but to have you soak in just how special the moment of realizing how far you've gotten is.

Taylor gives you a soft smile, the one you've always seen all these years, all these years of endless tears and fears, all now being put at rest, and you couldn't help but break out into tears again with a small whimper.

"I wouldn't know where I'd be if not for you..." you shook your head gently, and Taylor's own eyes followed in their flood silently. Her heart ached, but swelled at the same time, happy that you were happy.

"I know, sweetheart..." she whispered shakingly, the back of her hand finding contact with your cheek, and you lean into the touch.

"But as much as I love that..." she took in a deep breath, seeing your nose going red at how much you're starting to cry. "You did most of it on your own, baby," she said assuringly.

"All those times you felt like you couldn't go on? You still took your steps forward no matter what, even when it was hard," her head gently moves with her words, and you had to take deep breaths so your sobs dont make it hard to hear her.

The battles you fought, the storms and chaos, that was all settling down. You were settling down. And that was all that mattered. For everything given and taken and every sigh that had left your mouth, here you were.

Taylor sniffles, her tears freely flowing, but she continues, "Some people can come by to give you a push, like me, but you made the choice to be here, to still exist with me and everyone else." She said, keeping firm eye contact with you, and you couldn't be more grateful for her.

"And if not, then I would have been heartbroken...or maybe not even met you at all, and that would have been even worse..." It was almost as if her body, being so close to yours, all your emotions were traveling over to her own heart.

"Because you're the most loving soul I've ever known." Taylor breathed out, pulling you back into a tight embrace. She can feel the tension in your body being released, letting go of everything that ever was as you sobbed softly into her chest.

"I love you," you whispered into her neck, your hands clutching onto her shirt as she held you and swayed you both lightly.

"I love you, too. So much." she returns back the whisper of love, her voice having just as much emotion as yours did.

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

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fernandopiastri28 · 8 months ago

Text

first serve 🎾 ~ oscar piastri x logan sargeant

-> part 2 <-

Oscar looks up at his face, noticing that he’s been ogling at the patch of exposed skin on the boy for a few moments too long. He still has that hat over his head, but now it's turned backwards, a few stray hairs escaping just over the backstrap. “Oscar,” He extends his arm again, just like he had with Alex, and this time it’s not rejected. “Logan,” His grip is sturdy, but not painfully tight around the other boy’s hand. His lips twist into a smile, his crows-feet deepening as the expression reaches his eyes, which are a deep, pale blue. Oscar focuses on them, feeling a lack of embarrassment as Logan’s doing the exact same stare to him in return.

wc: 5,112 || no warnings

“Do you reckon we have to go?” Oscar leans back in his seat, his position giving him a picturesque view of the outstretching tennis court- the bright blue ground decorated with neon green tennis balls and white sneakers.

Lando, in the seat next to him, snorts, “Of course we do, Oscar,” Osc-uh. Drives him mad how he pronounces his name like that- he puts more emphasis on it when he is in a mood like now. “We've paid- we rented rackets and paid a whole lot to even get into this club,” He takes a long drink of his glass of milk he’d managed to convince the waiter to bring over despite it not being on the menu. Oscar visibly cringes at the sight.

“We didn’t pay a cent mate- perks of working here,” Oscar scoffs, grabbing his white cap off the glass table and squashing it over his head, blocking the piercing sunlight from hitting straight into his eyes.

“Yeah well, what’s the point of working at a country club where you’re pretty much allowed to play tennis whenever you want to if you’re never gonna take the opportunity by its balls?” Lando wipes a line of milk that’s gathered on his top lip, squinting at his friend and watching as his face turns into an even more hardened scowl under the brim of his cap.

“I don’t know, money?” He shrugs, tilting his head to crack his neck, the muscles flexing at the action. “Because, I don’t know if you know this, but not everyone can be crazy rich like the Norris’ and only be working because their parents are convinced they’re gonna blow all your money the second they move out if they never have to work for it?” Oscar cocks an eyebrow, shifting his attention to look at his colleague who had an offended glare painted across his face.

“No need to bring my spending habits into our civil conversation,” He huffs, grinding his teeth. For being a whole year above Oscar at school and almost 18 months older- Lando is surprisingly immature. “But I actually do know that. Obviously, I know you,” He smirks, turning it back onto the younger man.

“Nice one,” The Aussie clicks his tongue, checking the time on his watch, having to hit the plastic screen to get it working- the downside of still using the watch he got 7 years ago for his 10th birthday. “When are we heading on to play?” Through where the sun hits into the cracks of the cover and reflects back into his eyes- he can just barely see the watch hands hovering over the time 1.43.

“Three?” Lando kicks his legs up onto a chair he’s dragged in front of him, slumping back down and tucking his arms behind his relax. A long sigh escapes his mouth, acting as if he’s had a massive day- when in reality he froths up milk and pours it into ginormous cups to be served around to guests by Oscar, and if the younger boy isn’t busy serving customers- he's in the back cleaning.

“About the ‘crazy rich boy’ thing, you know who’s an even better example of that than me?” Lando drops his head back against the head of his metal chair. Oscar blows bubbles down his straw into his coke, nodding along as his eyes meet Lando’s in a sun-avoiding squint. “The fucking Sargeant family,” He barks out a laugh.

Oscar drains the last of his drink, setting the glass down on the table again before humming in response. “Yeah, they are pretty well off,” In reality, Oscar hardly knows the guy. He’s heard of the Sargeants- his mate back in Australia, Caio, somehow knows the older Sargeant brother, Dalton. Apparently he’s pretty nice and certainly very wealthy.

There’s another son, who he knows is his age, a few months older but also a junior- just at some way richer school, likely the same as Lando. He doesn’t know what his name is though- something like Liam. Given his lack of knowledge about the family, Oscar doesn’t see himself as the kind of person to make a judgement on someone’s financial situation- unless that someone is the spoiled brat of Lando Norris.

Not only does Oscar just not have a particularly extroverted personality, which doesn;t help with getting to know people, he also only moved to the UK a year before to start year 10. And now halfway through year 11- he’s still struggling with people at school’s names- let alone people outside of it. He knows of a few of Lando’s friends, but that’s the extent of his reach out of a friend group. He knows George who’s very polished and almost aggressively British, Alex is very tall and smiley, Max is sarcastic and almost Lando’s carbon copy- just a bit more serious at times, and finally, Carlos who speaks with a thick spanish accent and Lando seemingly has a bit of a crush on.

Oscar would say he and Lando are ‘friends’ to an extent, but he doesn’t think they’re quite at the point that they’d discuss their dating lives yet. So beyond how Lando will take any opportunity to bring up the dark haired Spaniard, Oscar has no further reason to believe the curly haired man isn’t straight.

He doesn’t even know Lando’s views on that, it’s not something that’s come up in conversation yet. Oscar knows he isn’t fully straight himself, but it’s not something he goes around telling absolutely everyone. It’s not a shame thing, more so protecting himself from a potential bad reaction. So when there’s the occasional time where Lando points out a girl and asks if she’s pretty to Oscar, he hums out a noncommittal yes and leaves it at that.

“Lando!,” A familiar voice shouts out from directly below the ledge where their table is situated. “Is your ass ready for tennis yet?” Both boys crane their necks, looking down at the person who’s yelling at them. Standing below with a tennis racket in one hand and adorned in a grey sports shirt, his tan skin and recovering bleached hair is Alex Albon. “Hey guys!” He perks up seeing Oscar, waving his arm dramatically at the younger boy. Oscar waves back politely, greeting him in response.

“Alex is here?” Oscar looks at Lando in slight surprise as they make their way over to the stairs that lead down to the court. The brit nods, combing his fingers through a clump of tangled curls. There’s another figure next to Alex, a boy who’s not as tall but certainly broader. His head is facing the floor, a fitted black hat over his head, only revealing locks of naturally blond hair on the back of his neck.

“I think he brought a friend too, we can do doubles now,” He pats Oscar on the back, insinuating for him to walk faster. He picks up his pace, tugging down on his shirt as it rides up slightly. They reach Alex who is now alone, the other guy seemingly gone to do something. “Albonoooo,” Lando embraces his friend, wrapping his arms around him. “You remember Piastri, yeah?”

Oscar cringes at the use of his last name rather than his first. It’s very typical private school-rich kid stuff, which is right up Lando’s alley. In terms of wealth, the Norris’ are known for being rich, the Russells too. The Albon’s are well off too, the Sainz’s have a lot of money in investing and all that shit. Where the Sargeant’s money comes from, Oscar hasn’t had the chance to ask yet- or more so, Lando hasn’t randomly just dumped that information on him yet.

The Piastris aren’t a household name in terms of their affluence, nor would they be regardless. Oscar has three younger sisters which means his parent’s salaries go towards splitting evenly for a family of six unlike most around the area for three or four. It also doesn’t help that they only moved just under two years ago- so they haven’t had a major chance to build up their net worth, disparate to the families who have been in the area for decades and are living off of the prior generation’s profit.

Oscar extends a hand to Alex to shake, which is ignored in lieu of, “Of course I remember my favourite Australian,” a tight embrace, the strong sandalwood smell of his cologne slamming his senses. He hugs him back tentatively, giving him a few awkward pats on the back before he’s finally released.

“Ha, do you even know another one?” He grins, wiping off a line of sweat that’s already appeared just where his cap hits his hairline. Alex shrugs, murmuring out a ‘fair point’ with a wide grin still plastered across his face as his chest continues to rise and fall from enervation of clearly a few games done already.

“Shit,” Lando clasps a hand over the vibrating phone in his pocket, digging it out and checking caller ID. “Carlos is calling, I’ll be right back,” He hurries off, leaving the two boys who hardly know each other to interact. Just in Oscar’s luck, the boy who was with Alex before returns. He has his shirt hitched up, wiping sweat off his face. When he pulls it back down, it doesn’t cover his stomach fully- instead snagging up on his abdomen, showing off some of his defined torso.

“Logan,” His grip is sturdy, but not painfully tight around the other boy’s hand. His lips twist into a smile, his crows-feet deepening as the expression reaches his eyes, which are a deep, pale blue. Oscar focuses on them, feeling a lack of embarrassment as Logan’s doing the exact same stare to him in return.

“So!” A loud clap sounds next to them, Alex stands with his hands clasped together and the handle of his racket leaning against his shin. “You guys will be partners?” He raises his eyebrows at Logan, and then at Oscar. They look at each other, the question showing up in both of their expressions. They both nod and head off to an empty court while they leave the brit to wait for Lando.

Logan extracts a ball from his pocket as Oscar goes and grabs a racket, feeling around with it to make sure it feels comfortable enough. He’s not really a tennis guy- more into cricket growing up in Australia, but it’s not as if he doesn’t have any experience with hitting a ball. “So,” He sighs, walking towards the net where Logan is standing with his hip brushing against. “How long have you been playing tennis for?” He regrets the question almost immediately, realising it would’ve been a safer question to ask if he even played it in the first place.

Luckily, his worry about how dumb he sounds dissolves as Logan replies, “Ah,” He scratches at a patch of almost invisible stubble on his chin. “So long,” He laughs, “I’d say since I was about… five?” He bounces a ball against the ground, repeating the motion a few more times before taking a few steps back. “You?”

Oscar only notices when he speaks then the American accent that lays heavy over his words. It’s pretty uncommon in the UK- a lot of proper British accents with the occasional Australian one like his own- but not many like Logan’s. Logan serves the ball, sending it flying over the net with a thwack. Oscar makes a desperate attempt to hit it back but ends with just hitting himself in the chest.

A winded laugh escapes Oscar’s mouth, “Nah, never played.” Logan raises his eyebrows, his blue eyes widening in effect. “Could you tell?” He grins. The other boy has a sympathetic look on his face paired with a slight grimace. Ah, He’s already disappointed.

“All good,” He shakes his head, “Wanna try it again?” Oscar nods awkwardly, shifting his weight back and forth from the balls of his feet to the heels. This time when the blond serves, Oscar tries to whack it as hard as possible, sending it soaring a mere few inches over the other boy's head, who ducks instinctively.

The younger of the two goes dark red as the other remains crouching on the floor for a few moments after, his blue eyes huge and almost scared. They look at each other in silence for a few moments, fear on both of their faces. That is until the American bursts out laughing, a strange comfort to the other. He stands up, quickly stretching his legs out before walking towards the net separating them.

“I can teach you how to hit?” Logan drops his racquet, the plastic head hitting the ground with a dull thud. The Australian nods, watching as he jumps the net, slipping into place behind Oscar. “Okay, you hold your racquet like-” Two sturdy hands rest on the backs of Oscar’s, guiding his fingers on how to hold the handle properly. “this,” His breath is hot against the other’s boy's neck, almost unnoticed given how warm the rest of his body feels.

“This is forehand,” He positions Oscar’s arms to be out by his side, letting one drop down to the side so it’s only his right hand to be around the racquet, “And this is backhand,” He does the same, but his right arm is now crossed over his side, “Which is considerably easier,” He smiles when he sees the brunet relaxing with the position.

“Alright,” Oscar nods, going through the notion of swinging it infront of him, hitting an imaginary ball. “Good?” He looks over his shoulder where Logan has taken a step back, watching the other boy in a look of almost awe.

“Fantastic- you’re a natural,” He grins, a pat to the back of the Aussie’s back- a well done, definitely not just another reason to touch him. “You wanna try forehand?” Oscar shugs, going back into his initial position and swinging, noticeably not with as much ease- but good enough. “I think you’re ready to rally,”

Oscar cocks his head, an eyebrow raising in unison. “Isn’t rallying like driving cars?” It’s the American’s turn then to look confused, tucking his bottom lip under his teeth. “Like, driving a really fast car on dirt roads?” He scratches the hair that peeks out from under his hat.

“Uh, no.” Logan purses his lips. “Well, yeah, I mean I guess it’s also that,” He breaks back into a smile, comforting Oscar’s worries about sounding like an idiot again. “I don’t really know racing or anything, but rallying is essentially just a series of successful hits made by players,”

“Ahhh,” Oscar leans back a bit, flexing the hand that was previously gripping around the taped handle. Logan walks back around to the other side of the net and picks his discarded racquet back up. “Gotcha,” He kicks a tennis ball to the side, watching it roll over to where Alex is still standing waiting for Lando to return from his surprisingly long phone call with Carlos.

Alex has a wide grin on his face, one hand firmly planted onto the net pole closest to the pair, his other hand on his hip as he leans awkwardly. “You guys are getting on well,” he teases. Oscar rolls his eyes, looking to where Logan is unphased and almost looking a bit out of it as he waits for the other boy to speak.

“Right,” The brunet tries to wipe what feels like a hot flush off his face with his palm, hoping if he is red, it just looks like a sunburn. “You serve?” He itches his neck, his nails digging into his skin as an attempt to focus on the forming stinging pain rather than how Logan looks from his spot across from him where the sun is hitting perfectly against him.

“I can,” Logan grins, extracting a ball from his pocket and bouncing it against the ground a few times. Oscar makes note of it, remembers that he needs to do that when it comes his time to serve so he can impress Logan. He remains light on his feet, able to move around to hit the ball so he doesn’t make a mess of himself again. “Please don’t try to take my head off with this one,” He teases.

“I can’t make any promises but I can try,” he rolls his eyes, waiting patiently for the ball to cross into his side of the court. When it does, he drags his racquet back just slightly, lining up to the ball so it taps right into the centre of the gridded wires. It bounces back off it, hitting into the floor over the other side. He doesn’t let himself celebrate, too busy focusing as the ball comes straight back towards him.

He uses a bit more force this time, hopeful to send it past Logan and get a point, being somewhat impressive while still not hitting him again. It doesn’t hit him, that's for sure, but instead Logan controls the ball perfectly in retaliation, sending it straight back across in a line that slips straight past Oscar. “One-love,” The American uses his foot to nudge a ball closer to himself as the other boy’s already big brown eyes grow wider.

“Huh?” His top lip twists upward, a confused guise painting across his pale skin. He swings his racquet in practice, his eyebrows tensing in question of what that means. Logan doesn’t notice the confusion on his face, dipping down to pick up the ball under his shoe.

“Love- means zero basically,” Alex calls out from next to them, that same cheeky grin still spread across his mouth. “It means you’re losing mate,” He jeers lightheartedly. Oscar scoffs, ignoring him as he gets ready for another ‘rally’. This time, Oscar manages to hit it just past Logan, securing himself a point.

As time stretches on and Lando remains elsewhere, the three boys get further into chatting- discussing school, where Oscar learns that Alex and Logan are in the same school year, along with Lando at some posh private school the Australian can’t quite pronounce. Alex has a girlfriend who’s actually in the year above Oscar and at the same school, a girl called Lily who plays golf for their school’s representative team.

After a while, they get back onto the topic of tennis, which Oscar is slightly distracted from given how Logan’s hat has been tossed to the floor, allowing his messy and tangled blond hair to shine bright in the sun, a few strands reaching downwards towards his bright blue eyes. He wants to ask if Logan also has a girlfriend like Alex does, but since they’re off that topic- it feels weird to bring it back up.

Instead, he decides to reinvolve himself in the topic at hand. “Why did you start playing tennis anyways?” His question is directed at the American, unknowingly cutting off the conversation the other pair were having. Alex and him look at each other knowingly, a quiet laugh escaping the dark haired thai. He nudges the blond, his mouth moving to say ‘he doesn’t know?’

Oscar furrows his eyebrows again, looking in between them to try and figure out firstly, what’s so funny, and secondly, what is it that he doesn't know. “I’m, ah, how do I say this casually,” Logan grits his teeth, a pause. “I’m Logan Sargeant,”

Oscar somehow feels even more confused by this. Alright, yeah, it’s an aggressively American name, sure, but does it mean anything to Oscar? Not at all. Why him reintroducing himself has anything to do with tennis is incomprehensible to the Australian. The last name is slightly familiar if anything, but not enough to spark any recognition. “Okay,” He nods his head once, looking to Alex for more context that he doesn;t think he’ll find in his tennis partner.

“Logan Sargeant, son of Daniel Sargeant-” He continues. Oscar wants to interrupt and let him know that he’s not good with names, so that really doesn’t mean anything to him- but he doesn’t have to, because someone else does it for him.

“The Daniel Sargeant who owns this country club.” Oh shit. Super rich Logan Sargeant, the wealthy family Lando had been talking about less than an hour ago. The voice who interrupts is the previously missing member of their group, his jaw tight and his phone shoved haphazardly into his pocket in a way where most of it still hangs out.

“Logan Sargeant, the Sargeant’s who own Bayside Hills Country Club?,” Oscar’s voice is a mix of surprise and taken aback. Alex laughs awkwardly, seemingly his response to everything. The American nods, looking shameful that he didn’t have the opportunity to even tell his new mate before Lando jumped the gun.

“Fuck,” He clicks his tongue, his eyes still wide as he looks down at his shoes. In comparison to Logan, his outfit is scruffy and inexpensive. His shoes are beaten up and muddy, while the other boys are pristine white- clearly new. His shirt is baggy in all the wrong places, stretched from too many wears, while Logan’s clings to his body like it was made for him. “You’re like… rich,” He cringes as he says it, reminding himself that he shouldn’t be making a comment on someone else’s financial situation.

“Why are you here?” Lando is straight to the point interrogating the unexpected member of their tennis group, raking his hand through his curls, tapping his foot on the floor impatiently as if he wasn’t the one who left the other’s to go answer a call. “You know Piastri?”

He shakes his head, “Alex- only just met Oscar,” He corrects, looking at brunet rather fondly. “Where’d you go off to?” Logan queries, checking his watch, which Oscar notices how nice it is- a clear representation of his status that he’d managed to not notice until now. “It’s been over an hour

Lando’s lip straighten into a tight line, almost embarrassed, “Sainz needed to talk,” He murmurs, dragging the back of his shoe up to gather some of the peeling ground up off the floor. The way his cheeks turn rosy is enough of an indication that Oscar’s theory about him and Carlos were right. “Now, are we gonna play or what?” He looks expectant, confused as to why they’re still standing around and talking.

Logan looks at the Australian, his lips curling into a look of disinterest. “You wanna?” He mouths, his eyes roaming over the sweat coating the brunet's face and his clear expression of exhaustion. He receives a mouthed ‘not at all’ in reply. “Nah, you guys can though,” Logan gestures between the two other boys as Logan and Oscar pick up their racquets and walk off.

Lando hurls a few exasperated half-arsed insults at the pair, before eventually giving up and settling for playing with Alex. Oscar removes his hat, shaking his sweaty hair out before raking his finger through it- not caring too much about how it looks. That is until he sees in his peripheral, Logan staring deep into his soul. “You have nice hair,” His accent is thick and low, his mouth barely opening as he says it.

Oscar tilts his head, his eyes looking up to the mop of somehow perfectly done golden hair belonging to the American. “You too,” He grins, looking back ahead at the stairs they’re beginning to go back up.

“I have like uh, a room here,” Logan blurts out, catching the eyes of Oscar who has far too many thoughts spinning through his head at that sentence. “I was thinking we could hang out there? I have a tv and couch- we could play fifa or… mario carts- if that’s your thing?” He exhales nervously. The aussie accepts graciously, a tinge of red appearing under his eyes.

They wander around just talking and laughing for the next hours, discussing the club, their respective schools, sports, friends, families, everything. Oscar learns that Logan’s been learning to play tennis since he was so young because even back in the states (where he lived up until 5 years ago) and tennis was the main appeal and aspect of the club. He in fact has a brother called Dalton who moved to Australia for university the year prior and they learn that he and Oscar’s mate Caio are roommates.

Despite his family’s wealth, he has a job at the club doing tennis coaching- which always happens early morning during the holidays, which is why they’ve never ran into each other as Oscar works late afternoons. Lando is in his year at school and dislikes him as he believes he’s a pretentious asshole- despite never bothering to get to know him. Confirming Oscar’s previous unasked question- he doesn’t have a girlfriend.

Oscar tries not to smile too hard at that.

They sit down at one of the club’s restaurants as it nears toward 6pm, the prior hours they’ve been talking for seeming far shorter then its actually been. They share a pizza and far too many fries, drinking milkshakes until they feel completely ill. By the end, they decide to finally go back to Logan’s ‘place’ at the club to take up the suggestion of playing games.

As they walk over, they remain pretty silent, both clearly feeling the same way about each other but equally as oblivious that it’s requited in any way. They arrive at a thin brown door down the hall of the management office where Oscar often has to retreat to when someone asks for his manager when being difficult. There’s a small gold plating drilled into just above the door handle, ‘Logan’ it reads, branding his ‘room’. Logan presses a keycard to a sensor on the right of himself, pushing down on the handle as it clicks open. “My place,” He gestures inside, stepping aside to let the other boy in.

It opens up into the living room, surprisingly big in comparison to management next door. It has floor to ceiling windows, looking out of the golf field that opposes the tennis courts, separated by a fifty metre pool. “Shit,” Oscar looks out at the view, an impressed painted on him. “This is nice,” He murmurs, turning to look back at his friend.

“Thirsty?” He somehow has two bottles of water in his hands, extending one hand out to Oscar as he pressed the spout of the other one to his own lips. Oscar accepts graciously, guzzling it down greedily from dehydration from the previous hour. When Logan finishes drinking, Oscar can’t help but stare at how the water has left his lips with a wet and glossy sheen over them. Think Oscar, he repeats to himself mentally, say something.

“Mario,” His voice cracks, ignoring it from exhaustion and gratefulness that he even managed to speak at all. They adjourn to the couch, slumping down into the plush and squishy cushions. “Who do you play as?” Strained, his throat aching with forcing words out.

“Bowser,” He tosses a controller into the brunet's chest, turning the tv on and selecting Mario Karts, multiplayer and then looking at Oscar expectantly.

“Not ideal how heavy he is, weighs down the car. Any extra weight makes you slower” God, how dorky, snapping back into talking about karting once again. Logan smiles regardless, moving ever so slightly closer that it's almost unnoticeable.

“That’s okay, I’m strong,” The corner of his mouth twists upward, eyeing Oscar rather intensely. “Who do you play as?” He rests his free, non-remote wielding arm on the back of the couch, his hand just behind the other boy’s head.

“Yoshi,” He selects him, trying to keep his burning gaze off of the american. The back of his neck is scalding hot now, desperate with the wanting to be touched. Logan’s eyebrows flicker upward, almost inquisitive. “I think he’s cute,” He explains, a stupid tight smile on his face.

“Ahh, fitting for you Piastri,” Weirdly, him using last name to address, Oscar doesn’t mind it too much. On the other hand, he’s hardly focused on that because he’s thinking about what he meant by that, was he calling him cute?

“Why’s that?” He challenges, his body heating up even harder as he feels two fingertips toying with the hair on the back of his neck, goosebumps forming all over his skin. Eyes are rolled at the question, ‘isn’t it obvious?’ Logan wants to ask.

“You’re cute,” He murmurs, his eyes focusing down at Oscar’s pale pink lips. Following suit, he admires Logan’s thinner and darker pink, almost red, ones- still wet and glossy. “Very fucking cute,” His hand settles on the back of Oscar’s neck fully at this point, his body shifting to readjust so he’s face and body onto him.

Blue eyes meet brown, pink grazes red, blonde brushes against brunet. Logan takes initiative, his bottom lip slotting in between Oscar’s pale ones. They both close their eyes, their breathing getting heavier and louder as they lose themselves in the moment. Oscar’s kissed a girl before, a few at that. Kissing a boy is different though. Slightly harsher, more chapped, a thousand times more nerve wracking. His hand releases the controller and presses down on one of the other’s thighs.

“More,” Logan grants his wish, licking into his mouth rather tentatively, taking his time to not pressure him or make him uncomfy. Taking his time also allows him to enjoy the sheer moment of pure bliss. It’s all he’s wanted for hours now, the second he saw Oscar, heard his voice- he just wanted to feel his arms around him and his lips on him.

He just had to make the first move, first serve.

#tennis fic #logan x oscar #oscar piastri #logan sargeant #f1 2024 #f1 #formula1 #formula one #mclaren f1 #williams racing #lando norris #alex albon #carlos sainz #country club #rich boy activities

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