#Well maybe not too strong for some fireworks?

[simplygojo]

The Devil He Made Me - Ch. 3

Authors Note: Hello friends!! Thank you to everyone who has been reading this so far, I appreciate the kind DMs I’ve gotten :) I’m excited for this series a lot so I hope you enjoy, and oh boy am I only getting started. Let me know if you’d like to be tagged in the next chapter!!

ALSO I have been getting some requests, I am super sick right now so I will get to them asap but I LOVE the ideas y’all are giving me!! THANK YOU!

Pairing: Satoru Gojo x f/reader

Series Summary : After being found by Gojo and his first year students in a sticky situation, y/n joins Jujutsu High under the close supervision of Gojo. As time passes, the two of you become close, with a strong unspoken bond forming as you work together. Although, there is something dark looming over the situation, and those at Jujutsu High are determined to get to the bottom of it, before it is too late.

Chapter Summary : Tensions rise as Gojo and the first-years return from their mission, only to find y/n grappling with the growing mystery of her cursed energy. After a fateful encounter with Maki, and an accidental release of power, the higher-ups demand answers. Gojo decides to bring y/n along on their next mission, but when her cursed energy flares uncontrollably during a high-level curse battle, questions of who—or what—she truly is become impossible to ignore.

Word Count : 5k

Warnings : Some general violence, suggestive themes

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The mission at the community college had been tedious but successful. Gojo, Megumi, Nobara, and Yuji walked back onto school grounds, a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction hanging in the air. The sun was already sinking, casting the campus in a soft, warm glow. Despite the day’s events, Gojo’s stride remained as casual as ever, hands resting behind his head, as though he hadn’t just helped exorcise multiple curses.

Megumi was the first to notice you, pacing anxiously near the common area, your movements restless. He nudged Yuji, who caught on immediately and called out, “Y/n! We’re back!”

You stopped mid-step, eyes lighting up with excitement as you walked over to the group. “You guys! You’re back! I’ve been waiting to tell you something!”

Gojo quirked a brow, his usual playful smile stretching across his face, watching you cheerfully walk towards him. “Oh? Miss me?”

You rolled your eyes, though a grin tugged at your lips, your heart produced an extra beat. But, you ignored his comment. “I ran into Maki earlier, and…” You paused for dramatic effect, looking between Yuji, Megumi, and Nobara. “I accidentally released cursed energy. Actual cursed energy!”

There was a moment of silence as your words sunk in. Yuji’s face lit up like a firework, excitement practically bubbling out of him. “No way! That’s awesome, y/n!”

Nobara, leaning against the doorframe with her arms crossed, raised an eyebrow. “Accidentally? Or are you secretly getting good at this?” She teased with a smile.

You gave a sheepish shrug, the memory of Maki’s provocation still fresh in your mind. “I wasn’t really trying. It just… happened. Maki kind of…well to sum it up I guess I just got frustrated.”

Gojo stepped closer, his curiosity piqued. “Frustration, huh? Strong emotions are usually a pretty good trigger for cursed energy.”

Megumi regarded you with his typical calm, analytical stare. “Was it controlled, or was it just a flare?”

“I think it was more of a flare,” you admitted. “But it was something. Everyone here has been waiting for me to do something.”

Yuji clapped you on the back with an encouraging grin. “Hey, progress is progress! You’re on your way.”

“Mm, a fluke maybe,” Nobara teased, though there was a hint of approval in her voice. “But if you’re already producing cursed energy by accident, imagine what you could do on purpose!”

You couldn’t help but feel a small sense of pride swell in your chest. For the first time since being found in the forest, you felt like you had a tiny bit of control over the strange circumstances you found yourself in. 

Gojo’s voice interrupted your thoughts, his tone light but with a strange undercurrent that you couldn’t quite place. “Well, fluke or not, it’s a good sign. Guess I’m doing a pretty decent job with your training after all.”

Your eyes narrowed playfully at him. “You’re giving yourself too much credit.”

“Oh, come on,” he grinned, leaning a little too close, his voice dropping to a teasing whisper. “You know I’m the best you’ve ever had.” He let out a loud chuckle. “Best teacher, that is.”

You opened your mouth to retort but thought better of it, deciding not to feed into his usual antics. Instead, you took a step back, straightening up. “Yeah, well, I still don’t know how to use the cursed energy.”

Gojo’s grin softened just a bit, “Well then, that’s your focus for the next few days.” You nodded quietly, feeling the weight of the task settling on your shoulders. Without another word, you turned away, heading back to the couches to gather your things. The others had already started heading to their rooms, leaving you in the common area with only the faint echoes of their retreating footsteps.

As you bent down to collect your jacket, you felt eyes on you. Glancing up, you realized Gojo hadn’t left with the others. He stood there, casually leaning against the doorway, watching you with an unreadable expression.

“Is there something else, Gojo?” you asked, unsure why he was lingering.

“Not really,” he said shortly. His usual cocky grin had faded, replaced by a gentle smile that seemed strangely out of place—content, almost peaceful—nothing like the Gojo you were used to. “You know, y/n, most of the students around here call me ‘sensei,’” he added with a teasing lilt as you approached.

You let out a soft laugh, shaking your head. “I’m not doing that. Besides, we’re practically the same age. And I didn’t ask for you to be my teacher, so I think it’s fair I just call you by your name.”

As you tried to step past him, he moved quickly, his arm extending across the doorway, blocking your path. You froze, blinking up at him in surprise, caught off guard by the sudden proximity.

“So, that means we have a more casual relationship, then…” he said, his voice low, his gaze fixed on you with an intensity that made your pulse quicken.

You stared at him, unsure how to respond. There was no way he was serious. Gojo was a notorious tease, always testing boundaries with his playful charm. You told yourself this was just another one of his games—something to fluster you, to keep you on your toes. He didn’t mean anything by it… right?

With a shrug, you forced yourself to meet his gaze, hoping your smirk looked as confident as you wanted it to. “I guess so,” you replied, the words coming out more smug than you intended.

Before he could say anything else, you ducked swiftly under his arm, slipping past him and into the hallway. You kept your pace steady, resisting the urge to glance back, but you could feel his eyes on you the whole way.

Gojo watched you as you walked away, his thoughts lingering on the way you spoke to him, the way you moved, the way you handled yourself. There was something about you—something different, something he couldn’t quite put into words. You weren’t intimidated by him. Not in the way most people were. You challenged him in a way that made him feel… unsettled. Intrigued.

He couldn’t help but smile to himself, shaking his head as he pushed off from the doorway and followed in the direction you had gone. There was a lot he didn’t understand about you yet. But one thing was certain—you were far more interesting than he had expected.

—

Later that evening, after everyone had settled back into their routines, you found yourself alone in the common area, curled up on the couch with a book that Inumaki had lent you about the inner workings of cursed energy. It was peaceful, the kind of quiet that you had grown to appreciate after the chaos of training and missions. You absentmindedly flipped through the pages, your mind wandering back to the encounter with Maki.

It had been such a small moment—an accident, really. But the cursed energy that flared from your hands had felt real, like something buried deep within you–something that wasn’t there before–had been awakened, however briefly. You had no memory of your life before being found in that forest, but for the first time, you wondered if this power had always been inside you.

Your thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps. You glanced up to see Gojo sauntering into the room, his hands in his pockets and his signature grin plastered on his face. He plopped down beside you on the couch without so much as a greeting, stretching out his long legs and letting out a content sigh.

“Enjoying the quiet?” he asked, his voice calm as he leaned closer to you to see what you were reading.

You shrugged, closing your book. “It’s nice… for a change.”

For a moment, neither of you said anything. The silence wasn’t uncomfortable, but you couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something Gojo wasn’t saying. His usually playful demeanor seemed… muted. And it wasn’t like him to sit still for this long.

Eventually, he broke the silence. “Are you sure you don’t remember anything? From the forest?”

Your stomach flipped at the question. You had gone over this a hundred times with Shoko, but every time he brought it up, his voice had a new edge—like he wasn’t just asking out of curiosity anymore.

“I’ve told you,” you said, a little more defensively than you intended. “I don’t remember anything. It’s all a blur. I’m not some enemy trying to infiltrate the ‘jujutsu world’ or whatever.”

Gojo tilted his head, his smile softening into something that almost looked like concern. “No strange dreams? No flashes of memory? Nothing?”

“No,” you replied firmly, though his questions had begun to unsettle you. “Why? Do you think there’s something I should remember?”

Gojo leaned his head back and let his gaze drift to the ceiling. You noticed his jaw clench as he did so. "Nah, I just thought that maybe something might come back eventually."

You narrowed your eyes at him, not quite believing his casual tone. “Is that really why you’re asking?”

Gojo chuckled, though it was a bit more forced than usual. “Maybe I’m just worried about you.”

“Worried about me?” You raised an eyebrow. “Since when did you become a big worrier?”

“Since I found you half-conscious in a forest with no memory,” he replied smoothly, though there was a new tension in his voice. 

There it was—the shift you had been sensing in him lately. He was always teasing, always playing around, but in the past few weeks, there had been moments like this where something in his tone changed. Like he was watching you more closely, paying attention in a way that made your skin tingle and your heart flutter. But just as quickly as it came, it disappeared. His usual smirk returned, and the moment passed.

“Don’t overthink it,” Gojo said, standing up abruptly, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I’m a curious guy, and you’re a mystery to us all right now.” He paused, patting down his pockets as if searching for something. “That means you really are just my type, y/n.”

Your breath hitched slightly at his words, but before you could say anything, he casually pulled a small white pastry box from his pocket and placed it on the couch cushion where he had just been sitting. “Picked this up today in Tokyo while heading back from the mission,” he added with a nonchalant shrug before strolling toward the door.

You stared at the box, trying to process the whirlwind that was Gojo Satoru. One moment he was making cryptic comments, the next he was leaving you sweets. ‘What a strange guy,’ you thought to yourself, shaking your head at his unpredictability. There was always something about him that kept you guessing, that made it impossible to fully figure him out. He was an enigma, equal parts charm and mystery, with a habit of leaving you just as intrigued as you were confused.

Curiosity finally got the best of you, and you reached for the box, unfolding it to reveal a freshly baked, delicious-smelling chocolate chunk cookie. You couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at your lips as you stared down at the treat, warmth spreading in your chest. For all his teasing and unpredictability, Gojo had a way of surprising you in the most unexpected ways.

Taking a bite, you practically melted at the taste—it was perfect, like everything else he seemed to do effortlessly. As you savoured the sweetness, you glanced at the door where Gojo had disappeared.

‘Maybe he’s not as impossible as I thought,’ you mused, biting back a grin. Even if he was a strange guy, maybe, just maybe, there was more to him than he let on. And with that, you enjoyed your treat and returned to your studies.

—

Meanwhile, in the administrative wing of the school, Nanami, Principal Yaga, and a few other higher-ranking sorcerers had gathered for a private meeting. The topic of conversation was you—and the growing concern surrounding your mysterious past.

Nanami sat at the table, his brow furrowed as he listened to the others discuss the situation. He had always been one to trust his instincts, and something about you didn’t sit right with him. He wasn’t suspicious of you, per se, but the circumstances surrounding your discovery were troubling.

“We still have no idea where she came from,” one of the sorcerers said, shaking his head. “No family, no records. It’s like she just appeared out of nowhere.”

Principal Yaga nodded thoughtfully, his hands clasped in front of him. “And she has no memory of anything before we found her?”

“None,” Nanami confirmed. “Shoko has done multiple tests. Everything comes up clean. But that doesn’t mean she’s not dangerous.”

Nanami’s words hung in the air, the unspoken implications clear. While you hadn’t shown any signs of malicious intent, the lack of information made everyone uneasy. In the world of jujutsu sorcery, too many unknowns could lead to disaster.

“What about her cursed energy?” Yaga asked.

“She’s shown some potential,” Nanami replied. “But it’s raw. Uncontrolled.”

“And Gojo?” another sorcerer chimed in. “He’s the one working with her most closely.”

Nanami’s jaw tightened slightly at the mention of Gojo’s name. “Gojo believes she’s harmless. But he also has a tendency to take risks.”

Principal Yaga’s eyes narrowed, clearly weighing the situation carefully. “We can’t afford to ignore this. If there’s even a chance she could become a threat…”

“We should monitor her more closely,” Nanami suggested. “Let her accompany Gojo and his students on missions. That way, we can observe how her cursed energy reacts in different situations.”

There was a murmur of agreement around the table, though the atmosphere remained tense. No one wanted to treat you as an enemy, but the unpredictability of your situation was too great to ignore.

Principal Yaga leaned back in his chair, his expression grim. “Keep an eye on her. But if anything changes—if she shows any sign of being a threat—we’ll have to eliminate her.”

Nanami nodded, though there was a heaviness in his chest. He didn’t want to think the worst of you, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to your story than anyone realized.

—

It was two days later when Gojo approached you with the news.

“You’re coming with us on the next mission,” he said casually, as though it were the most normal thing in the world.

You blinked, looking up from where you were seated on the outdoor training grounds, a faint breeze rustling through the trees as you practiced your breathing exercises. “Wait, what? I’m going with you?”

Gojo strolled over, hands stuffed in his pockets, before plopping down on the grass beside you, stretching out in his usual relaxed manner. “Yep. Nanami and the higher-ups want to see how you handle real-life situations with curses, so you’ll be tagging along. It’s mostly for observation, though. Don’t worry, I won’t throw you into the fire.”

You frowned, setting aside the faint energy you had been trying to summon. Your fingers trailed over the grass absentmindedly as you narrowed your eyes at him. “And you’re okay with that? Letting them spy on me?”

Gojo’s expression didn’t shift much, but his eyes—those usually carefree, playful eyes—darkened just a little. “They’re just being cautious. No need to take it personally.”

“Right,” you muttered, sarcasm lacing your tone. “Because being treated like a ticking time bomb is totally not personal.”

Gojo sighed, leaning back on his arms and staring up at the blue sky. “It’s not that simple. You’re still a puzzle to everyone, including yourself. Until we know more about where you came from and what you’re capable of, there’s going to be some hesitation. You get that, don’t you?”

You hated to admit it, but he was right. You had no idea who you really were or what had happened to you before Gojo and the first-years found you in that forest. As much as you wanted to believe you were harmless, the unknowns surrounding your situation were hard to ignore.

Still, it stung to be treated like an experiment.

“So, what exactly am I supposed to do on this mission?” you asked, shifting the topic slightly, your voice quieter now.

Gojo’s grin returned, though there was still a hint of seriousness beneath it. “Observe, mostly. Keep an eye on how curses react around you and try to get a feel for controlling your cursed energy in a real situation. I’ll be there to guide you, so no need to panic.”

You shot him a skeptical look, brushing stray grass off your pants. “That’s reassuring.”

He chuckled, leaning in a little closer, his voice lowering just enough to send a shiver down your spine. “Trust me. I’ve got you.”

For a brief moment, his playful mask seemed to slip, and you caught a glimpse of something deeper in his eyes—something protective. It was fleeting, though, and before you could dwell on it, Gojo was back to his usual self, standing up and stretching his arms over his head.

“Anyway, get some rest tonight. We leave early tomorrow.”

He gave you one last lazy wave before turning to head back toward the school, leaving you to sit in the growing twilight, the weight of his words settling in. Trust him… Easier said than done.

—

The next morning, you found yourself standing alongside Gojo, Megumi, and Yuji at the gates of the school. The atmosphere was unusually tense, likely due to the nature of the mission. Gojo had explained that the team had been called to investigate a cemetery that had been plagued by a high-level curse, and while it was supposed to be routine, there was always the possibility that things could go sideways.

You weren’t sure how you felt about being thrown into the mix so soon, especially after the incident with Maki. But Gojo had insisted that it would be fine, and as much as you hated to admit it, you trusted him. His carefree attitude aside, Gojo had proven time and time again that he was more than capable of handling dangerous situations.

“Ready for your first mission?” Yuji asked, bouncing on his heels with excitement.

You offered a small smile, though your stomach was doing flips. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

“Don’t worry, we’ve got your back,” He said, giving you a reassuring nod. “Just stick close to us.”

Megumi, standing a little further back, glanced at you with his usual unreadable expression. “If anything happens, don’t hesitate to use your cursed energy, even if it’s just a flare. These curses are quick.”

You nodded, appreciating his calm presence. Even though you hadn’t known Megumi for long, there was something about him that put you at ease. Maybe it was his no-nonsense attitude or the way he always seemed to have things under control. Either way, it helped.

Gojo led the way as the group set off toward the cemetery. It wasn’t too far from the school grounds, but the oppressive energy that seemed to hang over the area was enough to send a chill down your spine. As you approached the iron gates, you could feel the cursed energy in the air—thick, heavy, and familiar...

“This is it,” Gojo said, his tone more serious than you were used to. “Stay close, and don’t wander off. We don’t know exactly what we’re dealing with yet.”

The cemetery was eerily quiet as you all stepped inside. The overgrown grass rustled faintly in the wind, and the gravestones seemed to loom larger than they should have. You could feel the cursed energy pulsing beneath your feet, like the ground itself was alive with something dark and dangerous.

Gojo motioned for the group to spread out slightly, keeping a cautious distance from each other as they scanned the area for any signs of the curse. You stayed close to Yuji, your heart pounding in your chest as you tried to keep your own cursed energy in check. It was difficult—the atmosphere here made your skin prickle, and you could feel your cursed energy stirring just beneath the surface. 

“Stay calm,” Gojo’s voice rang out softly, his eyes sharp as they scanned the cemetery. “We’ll handle whatever comes our way.”

You nodded, swallowing hard as you tried to focus on keeping your energy under control. But something about this place was getting to you. The air felt thick, suffocating, and you couldn’t shake the feeling that something was watching you.

Suddenly, Megumi stopped, his eyes narrowing as he pointed ahead. “There.”

At first, you didn’t see it, but then, out of the corner of your eye, you caught a glimpse of movement. A shadow, slipping between the gravestones, too fast to track. Your heart skipped a beat as the cursed energy in the air spiked, the oppressive force nearly knocking you off balance.

“It’s moving,” Yuji said, tensing as he prepared for a fight.

Gojo’s grin returned, though there was a sharpness in his eyes that told you he was ready for whatever was coming. “Alright, team. Let’s make this quick!” 

The curse made itself known then, rising from the shadows, a grotesque figure with six twisted limbs and three hollow eyes. It moved with unnatural speed, lunging toward Megumi with a snarl, but he was quick to summon his shikigami, meeting the attack head-on.

The battle erupted around you, and for a moment, you were frozen, unsure of what to do. Your cursed energy was still pulsing wildly inside you, but you didn’t know how to control it. You could only watch as Yuji and Megumi moved with practiced precision, their cursed techniques flowing effortlessly as they fought off the creature. And that is when you noticed a lack of Gojo’s presence. You were just stood there watching, frozen in place.

Suddenly, you felt a surge of cursed energy within yourself—stronger than anything you’d felt before. It came out of nowhere, like a dam breaking, and you gasped as the energy flared to life around you. The sensation was overwhelming, electric, as it crackled along your skin, raw and untamed. Your breath hitched, memories of your accidental release in front of Maki flashing in your mind. But this time, there was something different—this time, you could feel it building in your palms, swirling with more intensity than ever before.

“Y/n!” Gojo’s voice cut through the haze, sharp with concern. You blinked, trying to regain your focus, but everything around you seemed to blur. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw a figure moving jaggedly toward you—a curse, creeping closer.

Your heartbeat quickened, panic rising. Your mind screamed at you to move, to act, but your body felt frozen in place, the cursed energy continuing to surge uncontrollably within you. The adrenaline hit you like a wave, along with an undeniable frustration—an anger, even—at feeling so powerless. Your body reacted on instinct.

Without thinking, your hands glowed a bright blue, cursed energy pouring into your palms. It was hot, too hot, burning as it built up, and before you could process what was happening, you let it go. The blast of raw power shot forward, aimed directly at the curse.

The energy struck the creature with a force that staggered it, causing it to shriek in pain. The cursed form writhed as it absorbed the blow, disoriented and vulnerable. It gave Yuji the opening he needed. He didn’t waste a second, leaping forward with a yell and delivering a final blow laced with a streak of red cursed energy. The curse crumbled into ash, dissolving into the wind.

For a moment, everything was still.

You stood there, breathless, the remnants of cursed energy buzzing faintly across your skin. Your hands tingled, shaking slightly as if they hadn’t quite registered the release of power. The cemetery, once filled with the sounds of battle, was now eerily silent. And then, you noticed it—all eyes were on you. Yuji, Megumi, even Gojo. Everyone was staring, as though they had just witnessed something… different, something they hadn’t expected from you.

The weight of their gazes made your chest tighten. You felt exposed, vulnerable, like a secret part of you had just been revealed—one that you didn’t fully understand yourself.

Gojo was the first to speak, stepping closer. His usual playful demeanor had dimmed, replaced with an emotion you couldn’t quite place. Concern? Pride? Maybe both. His voice was uncharacteristically soft, yet carried a strange intensity. “Well, that was impressive, but a close one, y/n.”

His words hit you like a cold splash of water, pulling you out of your daze. You looked down at your hands, still trembling. “I… I didn’t mean to do that,” you murmured, almost to yourself.

Yuji came up behind you, his hand landing on your back in a reassuring pat. His smile was warm, but his eyes reflected a hint of worry. “Accidental or not, you helped. That’s what matters.”

Even Megumi, who was always so stoic, nodded at you, his gaze steady. “You did well.”

Despite their reassurances, a sinking feeling formed in the pit of your stomach. That power you had unleashed—it didn’t feel like it was entirely yours. The cursed energy felt foreign, almost as though it had been pulled from somewhere deep inside, a place you hadn’t known existed. The sensation unsettled you.

As you stood there, still trying to process what had just happened, you could feel Gojo’s eyes on you. Unlike the others, his expression wasn’t one of relief or approval—it was far more unreadable. His gaze lingered longer than usual, as if he were trying to unravel something, some mystery that only he could sense.

It was the same question that had hung silently between you since the day he found you.

What are you?

His silence carried that question now, as did the way he watched you with a mix of curiosity and concern. He didn’t say it, but you knew. You could feel it. And what scared you most was the nagging fear that you might not want to know the answer.

“You two go see if there are any other low level curses lingering, meet us back here.” Gojo instructed to Yuji and Megumi, who quickly went to secure the area.

Gojo’s voice broke through your thoughts once more, this time quieter, more subdued. “You’re pushing yourself too hard,” he said, his tone laced with an unspoken concern. He took a quick step toward you. “You’re still new to this. You shouldn’t be able to summon cursed energy that strong… not yet.”

You looked up at him, the faint tremor still lingering in your hands, tears welling in your eyes, threatening to spill over. It took you a second to fully realize just how close he was—closer than he usually stood. Your breath caught in your throat as you noticed his blindfold, usually obscuring his gaze, now hung loosely around his neck. It was startling, seeing his ocean-blue eyes for the first time without any barrier, and they were locked onto yours, as if searching for something beneath your surface.

His gaze was intense, almost too much to bear, like a storm brewing just behind the calm sea of his eyes. The way he looked at you, so deeply, so fully—it felt like he could see right through you, down to the very core of your being. Your heart pounded in your chest, and for a moment, it was as though the world had shrunk down to just the two of you standing there, in the aftermath of whatever it was that had just happened.

“I don’t know what happened,” your voice was barely a whisper, shaky, raw with emotion. “It just… came out. Like I couldn’t stop it. I-I’m sorry.”

His frown deepened, the sharp edges of his usual confidence dulling as his expression softened in a way you hadn’t seen before. His eyes, so clear and unguarded now, reflected something you hadn’t expected to see in him: worry. For the briefest moment, the mask he wore, the one that shielded him from the world, slipped. His vulnerability was laid bare, just for you to see.

“That’s exactly what worries me,” he murmured, more to himself than to you, his voice a low, hushed tone that sent a shiver down your spine. His words lingered in the air, heavy with a meaning that neither of you fully understood yet.

For a second, his hand twitched, like he was about to reach out, to touch you, but he stopped himself. The space between you felt charged, a tension hanging in the air that was as palpable as the energy crackling through your fingertips earlier. His closeness, the warmth of his presence, the way his gaze softened as it held yours—it all felt too much, and yet, not enough. You could feel the pull between you, something unspoken, lingering in the narrow distance that separated you.

But then, just as quickly as it had appeared, that moment of vulnerability was gone. Gojo stepped back, the mask of his usual calm, collected self sliding back into place like a practiced routine. His playful smirk returned, though there was still something different about it, like the echoes of his concern hadn’t fully faded yet.

“Don’t think too much about it for now,” he said, his tone light but his gaze still serious. “Just… rest. We’ll figure this out. You’re okay.” And with two fingers he lifted his blindfold back into place.

You nodded, though your mind was far from calm. Your hands still shook slightly, your heart still raced from the intensity of the moment. But more than anything, it was the memory of his eyes, his bare, unfiltered gaze, that lingered long after he turned to walk away, leaving you with more questions than answers.

As Gojo turned to walk away, his usual swagger in each step, you couldn’t shake the feeling that something was shifting—that this wasn’t just about you anymore. All of the mystery surrounding you was concerning.

And in that moment, you realized he wasn’t just concerned about your situation—he was concerned for you.

[poetic-pearls]

better be safe than sorry

pairing: luke castellan x unclaimed reader (totally just friends)

“new years at camp half-blood”

[wc: 902]

23:50

the stars are painting the night sky in a way that almost makes me wish we wouldn't light any fireworks. the breeze caressing my face smells of the sweet strawberries we are surrounded by and liquor.

"here" behind me, luke seems to appear out of nowhere, two cups in hand.

his eyes twinkle kindly, reflecting the stars that seem closer than usual. "sorry for taking so long; the cabin was full, well, more full than usual"

23:53

"don't worry about it"

luke sits down beside me and holds out a cup.

it being warmer inside camp than on the outside allows me to look at his strong arms.his arms are decorated colorfully with the tattoos we sneaked off the table for the younger campers earlier.

"so, another year of this huh?"

he laughs that melodic laugh of his that always manages to claw it's way into my chest.

"yeah, i guess", he rips two strawberries our of the field, holding one out to me " but hey, at least i'm there to keep you company the whole time"

"ugh, right, another year stuck with you. i kind of wish the others would stay too"

"hey!" luke nudges me in the shoulder, almost making me fall on top of an unripe bush of strawberries.

i gasp, "how dare you? you better hope the dryads don't snitch on you trying to destroy the field"

"i hope not, but i might have already tripped a little on my way here; even spilled some of my drink. not sure how booze affects the growth of strawberries but i doubt it's any good"

"ew", now i'm the one pushing him "at least now i know why sometimes the first strawberries of the year taste like beer"

we're both laughing.

"okay, okay" luke raises his hands in surrender "i admit, that might have something to do with me"

i shake my head in faux disappointment "luke, luke, luke. how could you?"

"i'm sorry, alrigh-", we're startled by a singular firework.

"oh that must have been the test - what time is it?"

"uhh..." luke checks his wrist.

"23:57. shit, did you see the others?"

"no, i gave up. did you see them on your way?"

"nope, weird. they just disappeared; almost like they don't want ro be found"

i hum, twirling the stem of what used to belong to my strawberry.

"seems like we'll start the new year alone" "but i was going to kiss allie for good luck" we both say at the same time.

"maybe we could still look for them?", i offer.

luke shakes his head "if we didn't find them before i doubt we'll find them now."

"shit, then what am i supposed to do about my kiss?" i look around, nothing but trees. well, and luke. "you think one of the dryads would be up for it?"

luke laughs, pushing his hair out of his eyes."maybe, but do you really want to start the year with splinters in your lips? maybe-"

luke looks uncertain, avoiding my gaze before looking back at me with brown eyes.eyes like melted chocolate, the sweetest of them all. when i look at him i can almost taste it. and i want to.

"maybe we could kiss?"

the offer hangs between us like a cloud and we're both just staring at each other for a moment.

"i wouldn't want you to start the year with bad luck"

23:59

am i getting red? no, no, surely not. it's pretty warm here, right? i was already red before he started talking; before he looked at me like that. i'm just warm.

"okay"

one look at his watch.

23:59:44

i'm glad to have a friend as nice as luke.

his eyes are trained on his watch before he meets my gaze again, continuing to count under his breath.

23:59:55

we're both leaning in now.

did the fireworks already start or is that the sound of my heart beating?

"5, 4, 3, 2-"

when our lips meet the same feeling from earlier comes back. the feeling i always get when he laughs.

i just really appreciate what he's doing for me.

his lips are so soft, just like i expected.

his lips do always look soft. especially in the light of the campfire. but he tastes different. he tastes bitter like liquor and unripe strawberries. but also sweet like the chocolate he stole for us from the table earlier.

it's different but perfect.

different from the way i expected just a minute ago.

the first and only time i thought of his lips on mine.

when we part it takes a few seconds before we actually pull away. but not much.

luke's cheeks are flushed, he must feel that it is too warm too. and his eyes reflect the fireworks that just started.

he looks so pretty like this.not that i would ever tell him that, but it's the way his curls fall on his forehead, the way his eyes reflect the fireworks instead of stars now and the pink of his cheeks and lips.

"...i think my watch might be set a few seconds too early"

i just nod, i know what he means. the fireworks are always on time.

and soon there are mumbled "happy new years" between us and our lips meet once again.

better be safe than sorry.

a/n: might post a bonus soon

[criminally-chill]

Fireworks

Pairing: Emily Prentiss x reader

Category: Fluff

————————

It’s late, and the bullpen is quiet except for the soft hum of computers and the occasional sound of Emily tapping her fingers against the keyboard. She’s sitting across from me, hunched over her laptop, her brow furrowed in that familiar way that tells me she’s deep in thought—and, more importantly, that she’s been working too hard for too long.

We’ve been at this for hours, chasing leads, piecing together profiles, and waiting for something to click. But tonight, Emily looks… tense. Tired, yes, but more than that—almost restless. The weight of the case is pressing down on her, and I know her well enough to see that she’s starting to unravel, even if she won’t admit it.

I close my own laptop, deciding it’s time for an intervention. Emily won’t give herself a break, so I’ll just have to take matters into my own hands.

“Hey,” I say softly, reaching across the desk to get her attention. “Come with me.”

She barely looks up, mumbling something about “just needing to finish this part.” But I’m not letting her talk her way out of this one. I reach out and gently tug her hand until she finally meets my gaze. She looks exhausted, the lines around her eyes more pronounced under the harsh office lights.

“Emily,” I say, my voice firm but gentle, “five minutes. That’s all I’m asking.”

She sighs, and I can see the reluctance in her eyes. I know she doesn’t like leaving things unfinished, but finally, she gives in, letting me pull her out of her chair. “You’re not going to let this go, are you?”

I grin, squeezing her hand. “Not a chance.”

Together, we walk up the stairs, past the empty offices and up to the roof. The cool night air hits us as soon as we step outside, and Emily shivers, pulling her blazer tighter around herself. I notice immediately and shrug off my own coat, wrapping it around her shoulders before she can protest.

She glances up at me, a little surprised, but doesn’t say anything as she adjusts the coat and snuggles into the warmth. I step up behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist and resting my chin on her shoulder. For a moment, we just stand there in comfortable silence, taking in the crisp night air and the quiet that stretches out over the city.

Then, as if on cue, fireworks start up in the distance, lighting up the skyline in bursts of red, blue, and gold. I feel Emily relax against me, her body softening as she watches the colors dance across the sky.

“Did you plan this?” she murmurs, leaning back into me with a soft smile.

“Oh, yeah,” I reply, my voice close to her ear. “Just called up the city and asked them to set off some fireworks to help you relax. They’re big fans of your work, you know.”

She laughs, a sound that’s warm and soft, and I feel some of the tension leave her shoulders. “Obviously. They must know I’m working on a major breakthrough.”

I chuckle, tightening my arms around her. “Yes, because if anyone deserves a personal fireworks show, it’s Emily Prentiss. You practically have your own fan club.”

She rolls her eyes, but I catch the glimmer of amusement in her expression. “A fan club, huh? Well, I suppose it’s not the worst thing to have. Even if my fan club insists on dragging me up to the freezing rooftop instead of letting me work.”

I nudge her playfully, resting my cheek against hers. “Oh, please. You’re the one who won’t take a break. Even superheroes need to recharge, you know.”

She scoffs, but there’s a hint of playfulness in her voice. “Since when am I a superhero?”

“Since the day you joined the BAU,” I reply, without a hint of hesitation. “I mean, look at everything you’ve done. All the lives you’ve saved. If that’s not superhero material, I don’t know what is.”

Emily’s hand finds mine, squeezing gently as we stand there in silence, watching the fireworks. The colors cast a glow over her face, and for a moment, I’m struck by how beautiful she looks. Tired, maybe, and a little worn out, but still so strong and resilient.

After a while, she sighs, a soft sound that’s almost lost in the noise of the fireworks. “You know, I was just getting to the breakthrough part. Five more minutes, and I would’ve cracked the case.”

“Oh, absolutely,” I tease, smirking. “I’m sure the case didn’t stand a chance against you and your spreadsheets. But even you need a break sometimes, Em.”

She lets out a soft chuckle, shaking her head. “You’re ridiculous.”

“Ridiculous? I’m keeping you sane.” I press a light kiss to her cheek, smiling as her hand tightens around mine. “Think of it as part of the job description: married to the Unit Chief, which means I’m responsible for making sure you don’t work yourself into the ground.”

She leans back against me, her head resting on my shoulder. “I suppose I should be grateful, then. Not everyone has a partner willing to drag them out into the cold for a ‘break.’”

I laugh, nuzzling into her hair. “You’re very lucky, Prentiss. Not everyone gets a coat and a cuddle as part of their relaxation therapy.”

She chuckles again, softer this time, and turns her head to look at me. Her eyes are warm, filled with that familiar spark of mischief. “You know, sometimes I think you might actually enjoy dragging me away from work.”

“Guilty,” I admit, grinning. “But it’s only because I care. Besides, who else is going to look after you if I don’t?”

She’s quiet for a moment, her gaze softening as she studies me. Then, almost shyly, she leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to my lips. It’s warm, tender, and just enough to make my heart skip a beat.

When she pulls back, she looks more relaxed, the tension in her face gone. “Thank you,” she says, her voice barely a whisper.

“For what?” I ask, brushing a strand of hair out of her face.

“For this,” she replies, gesturing to the rooftop, the fireworks, and the quiet moment we’ve carved out of the night. “For knowing when I need to step back�� even when I don’t.”

I smile, holding her close. “Anytime, Em. I’m not going anywhere.”

We fall into a comfortable silence, just watching the fireworks light up the sky. The city stretches out below us, the sounds of distant traffic blending with the crackle and pop of the fireworks. It’s just us up here, wrapped in each other’s warmth, far from the chaos of the case that awaits us downstairs.

After a while, Emily shifts in my arms, turning to look at me with a smirk. “So… are you going to take credit for the fireworks, too?”

“Oh, absolutely,” I reply, grinning. “In fact, I think they should add it to my BAU credentials. ‘Spouse, profiler, and occasional firework coordinator.’”

She laughs, a soft, genuine sound, and for a moment, I forget about the case, the files, and the long hours waiting for us. It’s just us, up here in this quiet corner of the world, stealing a moment of peace together.

I press one last kiss to her temple, feeling the weight of the day slip away. Soon enough, we’ll go back inside, back to the case and the endless chase for answers. But for now, with Emily in my arms and the city alive with color below us, everything feels just right.

And for this moment, that’s all that matters.

[thepathwechooseif]

DEMO

In the English countryside in 1914, you live with your two children on your late husband’s grand estate. Two years have passed since the tragic sinking of the Titanic, from which you became a single parent.

Though surrounded by wealth and community, you remain lost in a fog of grief. But with the arrival of summer, the neighbouring family prepares to host their annual month-long house party. Your curious children persuade you to attend, hoping the festivities will lift your sorrow.

Lucas/Lucia Bertham, the family's charming heir, bonds with your children and seems to understand you in a way others cannot. But will secrets regarding their family's future prevent love?

Azra Hays arrives, a traveling storyteller with a gift for magic in their words that soothes your soul. Gardner Isaac Hill has loved you in silence, finding joy through your children's smiles.

More suitors await too - brilliant sculptor Zephyr Langston, whose art mirrors your heart, and Doctor Henry Bellman, who ministers to the people with patience and good humor.

As festivities crescendo with masques, fireworks and more, you start to believe in love and laughter again. But which person holds your whole heart? And will dark forces from the past destroy this new paradise you’ve begun to build?

The summer promises intrigue, blessings, and maybe a sweet romance if you can let go of history and embrace the gifts of tomorrow.

Customise your character as well as your children’s

Choose where you live and how you dress

Your choices have an impact on how society reacts to you!

Uncover secrets from your past!

Pursuing different ROs with varying levels of affection leads to unique story endings that resolve the mystery

Lucas/Lucia Bertham (m/f/nb)

The Heir, 26, Lucas/Lucia Bertham is the only child and heir to the prestigious title and lands of Bertham. They are a successful businessperson, but relish returning to their ancestral home each summer. While other young people prefer to travel abroad, they prefer the simple pleasures of country life. They take their duty as head of the manor seriously, helping tenants with an approachable demeanor. Though destined to marry well for station one day, they remain single and enjoy lively flirtations. While others dance at balls, they are the happiest hosting gatherings under the stars or riding alongside farm laborers by day. Lucas/Lucia lights up any room with their charm, wit and easy smiles. But is there a lonely heart searching for more beneath this carefree facade? As always, only time will tell what develops between Lucas/Lucia and you over the magical summer months at Bertham.

Isaac Hill(m)

The Gardner, 35, Isaac Hill has lived and worked on your estate for years. His strong, weather-worn hands coax beauty from the soil. Gardenings comes naturally to gentle-souled Isaac, as does his way with any creature in need of care. The expansive gardens are his pride and joy, a wonderland open for all to enjoy. Despite his huge build, muscular arms and calloused palms, his demeanor remains soft-spoken yet self-assured. While most village maidens sigh for officers or heirs, Isaac's gentle soul and way with children has turned many a head. But he remains devoted to coaxing new life from the earth, finding solace in small things. Perhaps amid the Bertham's blossoms, Isaac's own heart may bud anew this summer as well.

Zephyr Langston(m/f/nb)

The Sculptor, 27, Zephyr Langston hails from one of London's most prestigious arts families. Though young, their sculptures have already gained fame across England. While many London soirees vie for their presence, Zephyr relishes escaping to the countryside each summer. Using moody landscapes as inspiration, they work tirelessly to capture fleeting emotions in stone. Some say their sculptures are too sensually lifelike, but the Berthams proudly collect their edgy works. Zephyr charms salon attendees but remains unmarried, focused solely on their "passionate mistress," their art. Though prone to brooding moody spells while working, they come alive at parties with a playful wit. Could this summer be when they find inspiration of the heart as well as hands among the Bertham estate's rolling hills?

Henry Bellman(m)

The Doctor, 29, though young, he runs the village medical practice with a maturity beyond his years. What he lacks in words, Henry more than makes up for with his compassionate bedside manner. He listens with steady brown eyes that seem to see into patients' very souls. While others chat idly, Henry prefers observing life unfold with subtle calm. An avid reader, he's as learned as any university man but without pretense. More than one farmer's daughter has blushed starry-eyed receiving his attentions, yet he remains a bachelor focused solely on his work. The Berthams value Lucas greatly for his discretion and healing touch. But does his solemn façade hide deeper passions waiting to emerge? As always, only time will tell what mysteries lie beneath the calm exterior of Doctor Henry Bellman, and what intrigues he may stir in your heart this season.

Azra Hays(m/f/nb)

The Storyteller, 27, Azra Hays is a free spirit , with mischievous eyes like the summer sky. While others settle, Azra is happiest wandering the countryside in their worn boots, flute in hand.They’re a jack of all trades but lives for their art - spinning spellbinding tales that transport listeners far from their daily toils. With their easy smile and flirty manner, Azra charms all they meet. Yet beneath this bohemian exterior beats a kind and generous heart, always helping travelers in need. An orphan from youth, they never take their freedom or talents for granted. Azra makes their coin sharing folklore, gossip and bawdy jokes in villages along their route. But they save their most magical stories for moonlit campfires, weaving magic that leaves audiences in awe. Some say their nose for intrigue could even rival the Sherlock Holmes tales. Will Azra linger longer this year among Bertham's gardens and party revelries? Is there feeling breeding beyond friendship beneath Azra's roguish charm? As always, only time will tell the true depth of bonds woven beneath the summer stars.

[wondersinwaynemanor]

here i go again with "big brother dick grayson strikes again" prompts.

thinking of Dick probably helping his siblings on their first dates and offering to take them to the location.

Dick to Jason: Hey, Little Wing. I know you can take one of your motorcycles, but let me take you. You can just focus on being pretty.

Jason: Shut up, Dick. But, are you sure? I don't know why my hands feel a bit numb-

Dick, takes Jason's hands on his to warm them up and untighten the nerves there: It's okay. I got you. You're okay. It's going to be okay. Don't stress yourself out.

Jason: I know I fucked up many times, Dick. I don't want.. I don't know what to do if I fuck this up.

Dick, brings Jason closer: Shh. You won't, Jay. You're very smart and strong, and so so caring and you don't even realize it it. Ask the kids at the Alley, they idolize you. Roy adores you and everything you do. He knows who you are. And trust me, I'm not that bitter anymore of one of my best friends dating my younger brother.

Jason smiles which warms Dick's heart, making him smile too.

Dick: Plus, we wouldn't want Ollie to think that a Wayne cannot dress up and be romantic right?

Jason grins this time.

Dick to Tim: Timmy, I have a great idea! I'll drive you there. I know you're tired from work already. Just let me know which restaurant then you can rest a bit when we travel there.

Tim: It's okay, Dick. You're also tired from your shift. I'll just let Kon know I'll be late for a few-

Dick: No, no. If you want to rest first, let him know, he'll understand. But I'll still take you.

Tim: But, Dick...

Dick: Nah-uh. I didn't drive you to prom, remember? Let me do this, Baby Bird. And for me to also look out for Lex, just in case he bothers Conner again. We don't want that happening in the middle of your date.

Tim, laughs: Well, Kon will just have to drag Lex's ass to space.

Dick laughs with him.

Dick to Cass: Aww, you look beautiful, Cass. So where you going? Where will you meet Steph?

Cass, fixing her necklace: By her house.

Dick: Great! I already know where that is. I'll drive you there. We don't want to ruin your beauty. I mean, that's totally impossible, but I want you to just relax before the date.

Cass, blushes: I can do it.

Dick: Of course, you can. But I want to. Pretty please, pretty please. I'm a little protective over my sister.

Cass, rolls her eyes fondly but smiles: Of course. Thank you.

Dick: You're most welcome. And tell Steph if she does something extreme like set some fireworks, tell her to lay off with those energy drinks she started on her diet.

Dick to Duke: Little D, Little D! Don't even try to say no cus maybe your brothers and sister have already told you, but this is kinda my tradition now. I'm taking you to your first date.

Duke: They did tell me. But, Dick.. I don't want to be a burden. Weren't you injured-

Dick: No, no. That was like last week. I'm good. As long as you're good with me to take you, right? Now, I don't want to be the burden.

Duke, smiles: Never.

Dick, smiles and gives Duke a side hug: Then you're never a burden too, Little D. A big bro has to look out for the younger ones. Plus, I can say that you dressing up nice comes from my influence.

Duke, chuckles: Who else am I looking up to, right?

Dick to Damian: Shush, Dami. I know you're dating a super, and he can come and get you without a minute to spare, but tell Jon I'll be taking you.

Damian: Richard, please. I'm already at the right age.

Dick, puts a hand on his little (not so anymore) brother's shoulder and he refuses not to tear up (he fails ofc): I know, you've grown up so much, Dami. So much, since I made you Robin. But please, it will make me really happy to do this. It will give me peace, in some way. It sounds ridiculous, but yes.

Damian, doesn't even try to hide the fond he has on his face: Alright, Richard. I'll let Jon know.

Dick: He's not taking you somewhere out of Gotham or Metropolis, right? Cus then we'll have to take the Batplane.

Damian, chuckles: It's in Metropolis, don't worry.

Dick: Phew. I was as nervous as the time I took Tim on his date.

so....

maybe after a few years on Dick and Wally's wedding day, Dick's younger siblings will be walking with him on the aisle by his side and Bruce, their Father, on his other side of course. and they're thankful that the aisle is wide enough to fit the whole Wayne kids. Dick is a crying mess and he hasn't even reached Wally yet by the end of the aisle. because he's genuinely happy to have his siblings take him to the love of his life this time.

[equipment-manifest]

Another thing I'm trying to figure out is iterator green lightning

I'm assuming it is due to ionization of some specific gas, but can't really find anything online, other that it naturally occurs in tornado storms irl (but isn't exactly understood why) or info about how do fireworks get their color

Any thoughts on this?

Ionization of a particular gas or mixture of gases was the first thought that came to my mind as well. Low temperature xenon-nitrogen plasma seems to be a vibrant green, for instance. The green sparks are quite strange though, since real sparks are solid material glowing from heat. A compound in the air that heavily absorbs blue light could perhaps turn the blackbody radiation from sparks or high-temperature plasma greenish, and it might even explain the reddish skies beneath Five Pebbles. But the absorption would have to be incredibly strong to have an effect this close to the light source, and the green lightning beneath Looks to the Moon is accompanied by no such reddish hue. Aside from that, the stars in Rain World are green too, which might be related. Maybe our resident astronomer @delta-orionis has a theory for that one?

[gnabnahc317cb97]

Office Space

Bang Chan × Female reader

Word count: 1.8K

Synopsis: You live in a world where one touch of your soulmate will ignite a pathological urge to consummate your bond. What happens when you bump into the cute guy from the office and it appears as though you've found your match?

Warnings: 18+ ONLY MDNI! Cursing/strong language, semi public sex in a locked office no one knows), unprotected sex (please use condoms), cream pie. I think that's it not anything too crazy but if I missed something please let me know and I'll add it asap!

The same thing happened to everyone. Once you turned twenty-one, if you came into physical contact with your soulmate your body had an overwhelming primal desire to claim each other physically. Fuck. It was a big talking point when you start going through sex ed in junior high. You heard the same thing you always did with anything else that had to do with sexual education. ‘It’s perfectly normal’ or ‘It happens to everyone’.  

No matter how true that was, it didn’t make the topic any less uncomfortable to talk about for some people, you being one of those people. You avoided anything that had to do with soulmates but when you turned twenty-one you went to a psychic with some friends and the lady who read your fortune said that your soulmate’s name would be Chris and his last name had something to do with a gun or fireworks, an explosion maybe, she wasn’t sure and you weren’t buying any of it.  

By the time you were twenty-five a few of your friends had already found their soulmates. You didn’t have time for that nonsense. Your career was your soulmate. You were the lead of your department’s team and it was no easy feat getting to that position.  There were eight other teams all the leads for those departments were men.

Most but not all of them you had met in passing regularly. There was one that you had never even been introduced to but you heard people calling him Chan. You couldn’t lie to yourself, he was gorgeous. Strong nose, kind eyes, pouty lips, shoulders for days, and well, he definitely had a good tailor because his ass... You had to stop thinking like that, you didn’t know the man. You didn’t know his last name, you had never even heard his voice.  

Well, that was about to change really soon. Today when you got to work the head of your branch was pulling all team leads in for a meeting so you and the eight other men, including Chan, had to meet in meeting room three immediately after lunch. Around one thirty all nine of you promptly met your boss.

There were eight other people there and you were trying not to be distracted by one person in general. It was difficult, you didn’t know why. You were able to keep up with the meeting but about halfway into your boss's third bullet point you were getting warm and took off your sweater. The dress you wore was sleeveless, you were hoping you could cool off. You were trying not to look at him but your eyes found him anyway as you shrugged your cardigan off. When you did you found his eyes already on you, something in them.  

“Chan?” Your boss had called him twice now and he snapped out of it and realized you noticed him staring, he quickly looked away. You could see his ears turning red. 

“Yes sir?” Your boss asked Chan to present what his team had been working on this quarter, asked a few questions about Chan’s team, and where he’d like to see things go in the next quarter. Chan had an answer for everything and it came out as smooth as butter with his thick Australian accent, which you had not been expecting.

When Chan was done the boss called on you to do the same thing. You stood and started walking forward as Chan was headed back to his seat. The walkway was narrow, you went to step around each other but stepped in the same direction, you both kind of nervously laughed and then stepped in the same direction again. 

“Sorry,” His slender fingers gently gripped your shoulder and he stepped behind you. His cologne was intoxicating and it was like one touch set your whole body on fire. When he passed you and headed to his seat you looked behind you for a second but he was already pulling out his chair. You tried to ignore the feeling in the pit of your stomach and focused on your presentation.

One by one all of the guys had to go up and do the same thing. It drug on forever if felt like. The throbbing between your legs was unbearable, you didn’t think you could press your thighs together any harder. Chan just seemed to be intently listening to whichever one of the guys was presenting, seemingly unbothered. Finally your boss dismissed you all you were thanking the stars you could finally get out of there and away from Chan before you made a fool of yourself. Just before you could make your haste, exit Chan called your name. 

“Oh excuse me, y/n? Would you mind coming to my office and running over a couple things about your team that I think I’d like to implement with mine?” You almost choked. 

“Y-your office?” He nodded; he was acting perfectly normal. You’d thought, well... you’d thought maybe he was your soulmate with the way you were feeling but apparently, you're just a horny perv that thinks about fucking their co-workers. 

“If you’re busy...” You didn’t want to seem impolite or like you weren’t a team player, he was really giving you a huge compliment by asking for such a thing. You just needed to get a hold of yourself. 

“No! Uhehm, no I’m not busy... I’d be happy to go over whatever you’d like.” That sounded like more than it should have you felt like but he still seemed totally nonchalant. He bowed and then led the way, you following the trail of whatever cologne he was wearing. Chan opened the door and let you in first.

You walked into his office nervous, hoping you could keep control of yourself because you had never felt so out of control in your life. As soon as you were in his office Chan came in too, then shut and locked the door. You turned to him and he walked up on you quickly. Your heart started racing, his hands gently cradled your face, his now a breath away from yours. 

“God please tell me you feel this too.” You were so relieved, you pulled him into a kiss as your answer. You had to taste his lips, they looked so juicy, a little red from worrying at them. You pulled away for a breath and backed towards his desk pulling him by his tie gently. He had a wicked smile on his face and followed. You sat on the desk legs spread, skirt riding up a bit and Chan nestled himself between your thighs, gripping your hips before kissing you again. You wrapped your arms around his wide shoulders and scooched forward. 

“I’ve had the biggest crush on you since I started here.” He admitted suddenly, lips hovering over yours. You couldn’t help how big your smile got. 

“Really?” He nodded biting at his lips and then kissing you again, his tongue sliding into your mouth, tasting you until oxygen was needed. 

“I’ve always noticed you too, it’s always kind of scared me.” You panted out. One of Chan’s hands was on your waist the other tracing your jaw.  

“You don’t have to be scared baby girl.” You felt warm all over hearing him say that. 

“I know.” You lifted your skirt more then hooked your fingers into the side of your panties and pulled them over, exposing your dripping sex to him. He looked down and his mouth watered but then he forced himself to look back up at you. 

“Are you sure?” You nodded and pulled at him desperately. 

“Mhmm.” You needed him. Chan started to unbuckle his pants, pulling them down and just as he was about to pull down his briefs, exposing the large outline in them, he realized something. 

“Oh... uh... I don’t have a condom.” You looked at him sweetly, a little shy, you always were when it came to this stuff. 

“Well... it’s just... together forever, right? I mean, that’s what this means... doesn’t it?” Chan cupped your face and nodded his eyes sparkling. 

“Together forever.” He kissed you softly. 

“I’m on the pill, so... it’s okay.” He shook his head, then dropped his underwear and you got a full view of what had been straining against the stretchy fabric of his briefs. You gnawed at your lips and he didn’t waste time. Chan wrapped your legs around him and lined up with your wet hole. When he sank into you it finally made sense.  

“Yes... fuck... f-feels so good baby girl. Please wanna hear you say my name, tell me how you want it beautiful.” 

“Chan yes fuck... harder, fuck me harder...” Chan fucked you harder, panting and moaning just as much as you. You loved how he wasn’t scared to make a little bit of noise for you. Not enough for anyone outside the office to hear but enough to make you drip for him. Chan shook his head no. 

“C-call me Chris...” 

“What?” You stopped him and looked into his eyes, your soulmate’s eyes. 

“C-Chris, my real first name is Chris...” I’ll be goddamned, you thought to yourself. 

“What’s your last name?” He smirked at you with a funny look on his face, laughing a little. 

“Seems like an unusual time to ask. Wanna know what yours is gonna be in the future?” You flushed and smiled. 

“It’s Bang.” He kissed you. The fucking psychic was right. 

“Why does everyone call you Chan?” He pushed a stray hair away and you couldn’t help but lean into his warmth. 

“It’s my middle name and there is a lot of Chris’ on our team. So I go by Chan in the office, but everywhere else, I’m Chris and I’d very much prefer to be Chris when I’m inside you. He rolled his hips and your eyes rolled back.  

“Mmmm Chris...” He started fucking you harder egged on by you using his actual first name. 

“huhuhu Chrisss...” Harder harder harder he kept pounding into you. He loved it he wanted more. 

“C-C-Chr-risss... g-gonna... gonna cum.” A light sweat was starting to break out on Chan’s forehead as he pushed you harder towards your climax. Your arms wrapped around him hand fulls of his beautiful curls. 

“God fuck I’m gonna cum too... fuck! Cum with me baby girl... cum with me.” He snapped his hips into yours again, brushing your g spot and you went nose diving into your orgasm clutching onto his muscular frame tightly, gasping for air. As soon as your cunt started clenching around Chan he started coming too, pushing deep inside as he filled you.

You both held each other, your legs wrapped around him, foreheads pressed together, trying to catch your breath. Once both your heartbeats returned to normal Chan helped you off his desk and pulled your skirt down for you. You adjusted his tie and he leaned in kissing you again. 

“Uh do you maybe wanna grab some dinner tonight?” You smiled and tried to help tame his curls a bit after mussing them when you came. 

“I’d love to Chris.” 

Please do not repost or translate any of my works. My blog and stories are NSFW and 18+ ONLY! Minors, ageless, and blank blogs will be blocked!

[lullabyalikpoptarot]

Hi please do MLT in bts who is good in bed

Disclaimer: No facts, all alleged. I am reading sexual energy here and it helps understand who they are as a person. Now, I am going to expand on this question and ask about their sexual energy. Now, sexual energy can be about matters of sex, but it can also be harnessed into creative projects as well and extended to other areas of our lives. Now, I do not see the act of sex as dirty, perverted like some of ya’ll do, it is a beautiful act, if done right, between two people. How one approaches sex connects to their past, their upbringing, aspects of themselves, and any healing that may need to be done, so I wanted to answer this question to see where they fall in that spectrum. This energy can be used for their creative work as an idol as well.The reading will go into both aspects. This will be listed in the order of the question that was asked to the best I can by their sexual energy.

Jungkook (2 of Wands/9 of Wands/Ace of Cups)

The only one who gave me what I expected. He would need strong sexual chemistry with someone. I think good sex will be important for him in relationships. He would need to feel the passion and fireworks. He would definitely try his best to keep the spark alive or will do things to keep it alive. He would also like to feel strong emotions. I see him being vulnerable and open and may pour his emotions out, during the act. Passion, emotions he’s got to have all that. He needs to feel comfortable to open up to this person. I say he wants to release his burdens and feel a bit more free and open. He does see it as an act of love. I feel like work can be stressful for him, so he would want to have sex to release the stress of it, or allow him to forget about it a bit. He would want both parties to put in the effort and work as a team. He wouldn’t want to carry all the burden during sex, this is an act to release that, so both need to please one another. I can see being being a switch, and he wouldn’t mind the other taking the lead. This all can spill into his creative pursuit as well. A strong need for passion and emotional connection to his work. And this struggle to handle things on his own, he may prefer to work with others and distribute the work, then handling it on his own.

RM (Queen of Pentacles/Knight of Wands/7 of Wands)

He’s giving me two different energies, one who likes things organized, he can be pretty detailed and may like things clean, but he can also be a giver. I can also see a lot of passion and fire, a strong desire to have sex. He seems a bit protective of his sexual energy and really isn’t giving me much to work with here. He has his times when he isn’t into sex that much, but then he gets really horny. So, he has his ebbs and flows with that. It is like sometimes he is in work mode and focuses on his career and making money and then he has his moments when he really wants sex and chases it from a partner or from a random person who knows. Not sure about this 7 of wands, either he is protective, has his guard up, or likes a bit of a challenge and obstacles to pursuing sex. Or having sex can be a challenge for him. I needed a clarifier for the 7 of wands and got the King of Wands, dude is freaky/kinky, can be possessive of his partner, can be dominant as well. He seems pretty spontaneous and adventurous and he may want to do the act out of nowhere. He can be open to trying new and daring things. And looks to initiate these things.  In his creative pursuits he is very passionate about his work  and wants to make money doing what he is passionate about. He can also be protective of his work and defend it at all cost. 

Jimin (10 of Wands/The Hermit/2 of Cups)

Dude, this energy is all over the place. Sex can be a burden for him, physically exhausting/draining. He tries to carry a lot of the weight, maybe tries to do too much, although sex should be a relaxing act, not sure it is for him. I am also getting a need to be in a rush, like Heeseung, is this a male Libra thing? There could be pressure he puts on himself as well. Maybe he worries he won’t do well.  Sometimes he just prefers to be alone and may be celibate at times to not deal with it. He kind of self-isolates at times. I do see him wanting an emotional or spiritual connection when it comes to the act, it can be a way to connect emotionally to someone, interesting, don’t think he showed me this in another reading about sex with them. He would like two souls to come together and there be a sense of intimacy when it comes to sex. So, he would be willing to emotionally connect with someone, which is nice. I think he would want an emotional connection, someone to make him feel something, but not sure he gets that. I say when it comes to his creative pursuits, he may like to be emotionally connected to it, or use it to connect with others on an emotional level, but I see him burdening himself a lot and exhausting himself. 

Jin (Judgment/Knight of Pentacles/The Emperor) 

His energy is about releasing any judgment and criticism he has had of himself in the past. He may be the type that likes feedback that can help him grow sexually. Someone who may praise him and make him feel comfortable. I say he is very diligent, slow. He has a dominant energy, a need for order and for things to be planned, so not sure he is into anything spontaneous. But he does have Dom energy with this Emperor. I don’t see him being into hook-ups or just having sex for the hell of it. He would have to be in a committed relationship to do so. I say this could bleed into his creative endeavors of always needing a plan and not liking to do things on the fly. He also seems strategic in how he goes about things. I kind of see him liking to have the upper hand and lead in a sense. 

Taehyung (Page of Pentacles/7 of Wands/The Moon/The Empress)

This man wants kiddies, if he doesn’t already. That Empress card speaks loud to me, it is basically a pregnant woman, I don’t know that may be a kink of his. That card is all about creating life, so that is a goal for him with sex. I see him putting in effort, focusing on the details, trying to create the right conditions. He seems pretty guarded and protective as well. I can see it being this female, bruh did he have a child with some women and is protective of this person wtf is this? Because the Moon gives me hidden, secrets, lies, deceit wtf I feel this is telling me a story rather than what his sexual energy is, man just tell me his energy lol I felt his energy would be more passionate, but this is more of a story than his sexual energy to me. He may be someone who buries his emotions, tries not to reveal too much when it comes to sex. He seems like a mystery and ambiguous. I can see with his creative pursuits he loves creating and bringing things to life. Alright, that is all I got, moving on, that was more complicated than it needed to be. I feel it was for most of them.

Suga (6 of Swords/Knight of Swords/5 of Cups/6 of Wands)

This energy is quite interesting. There has been disappointment and rejection he has faced. I see him struggling to move forward and may find it difficult to deal with his emotions. He seems to be a strong communicator, so that will be important. There is a defensive energy he has. He may have had his ego bruised and there is a need to prove a point for him. He might be into dirty talk and degradation, not sure I wanted to get that, but whatever, that is what I got. Not sure sex has always been a great experience for him. Mental stimulation will be important to him, not sure how that fits. I also see him needing to have the upper hand. A slight need to dominate a lover. Not sure he has the healthiest way of working with his sexual energy.  There is something about that has something to do with proving himself. But there are difficulties in the aftermath of it. His ego and pride plays into his creative pursuits as well. I see him struggling to work through his emotions as well. Which may affect his sex life and creative endeavors. 

His was kind of hard to decipher. He is someone who may need healing when it comes to his sexual energy.

Jhope (The Hierophant/Ace of Swords/10 of Pentacles)

This is not what I expected. I thought I see more passion here. He seems pretty traditional. I see him reading a lot about it and learning a lot about sex. Maybe he has learned from what has been done in the past. His energy is about gaining wisdom and knowledge, what the hell that means who knows. I see him doing the act for the purpose of kids and building a legacy there. He comes as doing the act in a textbook manner, nothing spontaneous or adventurous. He can be pretty serious about it. I feel there is a lot he needs to learn and experience when it comes to sex, which kind of baffles me. It is like he prefers to know the details, instead of just experiencing the act and free flowing it. This energy is pretty basic and standard. I felt this dude has a load of passion, but maybe not. I guess this can tie to his his creative pursuits of needing to know all the details and being very cautious before taking action. I see him wanting to follow the status quo, because he knows that will get him far. He seems to play it safe and doesn’t really like crossing boundaries too much. Honestly, he would be pretty vanilla in bed from what this energy gives me. Not knocking him, I am not sleeping with him, so don’t care, this is just what I get from these cards, but this did surprise me a bit.

[lowkeyrobin]

Hello! Could I please get a cricket crew (those who are okay with x reader Ofc) with a reader who’s really sad and just struggling mentally, and they end up comforting the reader? :)

yes of course!! tbh this is me atm lol (lh), thanks for the request!! hope you enjoy

HANDSOME BROS ; mental baggage

includes ; tommyinnit, ranboo, & badlinu

warnings ; language, talk about mental health and self harm

masterlist

[ here's a song I'm obsessed with atm that I listened to while making this ]

TOMMYINNIT

he sees right through you but he doesn't know how to bring it up

you end up having to like spam call him out of fear you might hurt yourself so he has the confirmation at least that he wasn't overthinking it

after that, he's a bit over the top with making sure you're okay and stuff but he genuinely cares and backs off if you need him too

he's wide open for hugs if you need them

he's not a perfect talker but he knows how to make you smile and he knows that he's built trust with you, and he'll spend hours just trying to get you to understand how much he loves you and that he'll always be here for you

he understands that you know he loves you, and you aren't gonna get better with that, but he knows deep down it helps you just a tiny bit to know that he cares and he'll spend an uncountable amount of hours telling you all that

he strikes me as a words of affirmation & quality time guy, so just enjoying your presence while you do things and loving you from far away is usual

like if you're just chilling in silence he'll occasionally look up at you to make sure you're alright

"You look great today, y/n/n, is that a new shirt?"

"are you djo? cause I'd love to listen to you- wait, no-"

"I need more cringey pickup lines, hold on.."

once he sees you obviously happier and healing, he just explodes like a firework

he's just happy cause you're even the slightest bit happier, he understands the lack of motivation and the deep bits and seeing you rise out of them is so inspiring to him

RANBOO

you're the one who instantly brought it up, you felt yourself sinking and knew you couldn't drown too far because you were worried you couldn't be helped this time

instantly just like hugs you and talks it out with you

he understands that your struggling and recommends taking a break and spending time on yourself and maybe talking to a therapist if you're comfortable with doing that, even offers to go with you

you do end up finding a therapist who can listen to you and try to help on top of ranboo

"Hey, have you eaten today? if not I'll order you some takeout"

"Oh my God, are those new pants? they look great on you!"

they found a glow squid plush at the store and immediately bought it for you, it had little glow in the dark bits on it as well. they smiled so wide seeing the way you smiled at them

frequently asks if they can do anything for you or if you need anything from them

they show you some new music to maybe get hooked on to maybe fixate you on something if you're lacking a fixation and feel a little lonely in your mind

they give me gift giving & words of affirmation vibes so

always making sure you're okay in a new/populated environment and will totally get you out if you need to leave

your feelings are his top priority

he's always open for you to talk to him, he encourages it even if you don't wanna talk about it in therapy

they're extremely supportive, and seeing you slowly come out of the hole you were sinking into makes them so proud

"dude, you're unbeatable, you're so strong and brave, and I'm so proud of you, kay?"

FREDDIE BADLINU

you try to mask up your sadness around him for a while, hoping itd go away and you'd be fine again

he came over to your place with your favorite takeout as a surprise, and found you trying to wipe away and hide your tears at your desk

"Oh, lovely, what's wrong?"

gives you the biggest, warmest hug while you rant and open up about your feelings to him

obviously, as much as he tries to help and as much as he'd like to, he can't make your problems vanish

he doesn't wanna overwhelm you so he doesn't pressure you to do anything and always asks if you're comfortable in an environment, and if you'd be okay in said environment

constantly asking if you need anything from him or if he can do anything for you

through the day/when he wakes up/before you go to bed, he sends you messages about how much he loves you and how much he appreciates you in his life

"Don't compare yourself to people you don't know, I like you more"

"If you ever feel like you might hurt yourself, just call me, okay? I'll be here for you in an instant, alright?"

runs you a warm bath anytime you complain of a minor headache or a migraine

over time, he notices your wardrobe go from dull and plain to colorful and creative again

literally so happy that he sees that you're feeling even just a little bit better

he's very mature when you need to talk to him about things and if you need help, he's not judging

he loves cooking you dinner, even if he isn't really a professional chef

he strikes me as an acts of service & gift giving type of guy so I think that explains that

[amnestria-the-elf]

New Year's Eve in Baldur's Gate

Gale sank down in a plush chair at the edge of the ballroom with a soft groan and grabbed a drink from a passing waiter. It didn’t matter what was in the glass, so long as it was wet. He took a sip and grimaced– ok, maybe it did matter– but the strong red wine did, at least, quench his thirst.

He scanned the party, wondering for the umpteenth time why he’d let Wyll talk him into attending in the first place. He hated New Year’s Eve. It was a stupid, made-up holiday designed to take you away from the excellent book you’re reading and instead serve up a plate of regret for the morning. But Wyll had that sparkle in his eye when he spoke of the party. 

“It’s a tradition,” he’d explained. “The best in the Gate. There’s food, wine, dancing… and the best view of the fireworks over the harbor in the entire city.” He’d flashed that fucking beautiful, flirtatious smile, the one he knew melted Gale’s heart, and added, “Besides, I can’t spend New Year’s Eve without my partner. Bad luck, you know.”

And so Gale had relented, under the condition that they would leave before all the drunken idiots got out of hand. Wyll had shown up to collect him at the appointed time looking positively gorgeous. A doublet with the finest embroidery that fit his frame in all the right places, making Gale wish they could stay in and he could peel it off of him instead. He’d even decorated his horns with a striking set of gold jewelry that made him look every bit the Grand Duke he was.

And while Gale had to admit that he never tired of being seen on the arm of the most eligible man in all the Gate, he still longed for his warm fire, a nice cup of tea, maybe some shortbread, and to finish the excellent book on mining in the Astral Plane that he was reading. Well, one night of frivolity wouldn’t kill him, and seeing the joy on Wyll’s face as he danced with the good ladies and gents of the gate made Gale’s heart swell. 

His knees were aching. He’d lost count of how many dances Wyll had led him through with breathless laughter. It was easy to get caught up in the swirl of the dance floor, the touch of Wyll’s hand on his waist, the look in his eyes whenever they moved close. He was intoxicating, making Gale believe that he, too, could spend the entire night dancing, despite his body warning him otherwise. It wasn’t until he took a bad turn and twisted his knee slightly that he begged off, asking Wyll for a rest. Ever the doting partner, Wyll had wanted to come and sit with him, to make sure he was all right, but Gale hadn’t wanted to steal Wyll’s night from him, so he’d insisted that Wyll stay on the dance floor.

Wyll was still dancing, but he turned his head towards Gale every so often and flashed him that smile, as if to say, I’m yours. Gale smiled back. He knew it, of course, but it felt wonderful to be reminded of it all the same.

A swarm of waiters entered the ballroom laden with glasses of a lighter kind of wine than he was currently nursing. It must be nearing midnight. Wyll had made it clear that this was the most important part to him, so Gale hauled himself to his feet and grabbed two glasses. The moment that Wyll noticed the bustle in the room, his face snapped towards Gale, and he barely paused to bow to the person he was currently dancing with to make his way towards him.

Gale smiled and held a glass out to Wyll, but to his surprise, Wyll took both glasses and placed them down on a nearby table. He grabbed Gale’s hand and started pulling him away.

“Wyll, what–” 

“Come on!” Wyll called over his shoulder, now pushing his way through the crowd towards the balcony doors. The crowd parted easily for him– of course it did– and as the ten-second countdown to midnight was starting they reached the balcony railing overlooking the harbor.

“Wyll, what are we doing?” Gale breathed.

Wyll gave that smile again. “You’ll see.”

The crowd inside chanted, “Three… two… one… Happy New Year!”

Gale leaned in for the obligatory kiss, and Wyll’s lips met his in what was little more than a perfunctory peck. Gale frowned. Was that it? The big midnight kiss?

“Watch,” Wyll said with a nod towards the fireworks now starting over the harbor.

The sky lit up in an incredible array of colors. It had been ages since Gale had seen a fireworks show back in Waterdeep, and it seemed they’d made considerable advances in the realm of pyrotechnics since then. The colors were brighter and more saturated, the booms were louder, and the timing of the explosions more coordinated than he remembered. 

Now they were exploding in shapes– first a square, then a triangle, then a circle, then a heart.

“Fascinating!” Gale cried over the noise. “To make fireworks explode in shapes like that must require quite an intricate combination of–”

He cut himself off as he realized that the fireworks now appeared to be forming letters.

“G… A… L… E… M… A… R… R… Y… M… E…”

He stood open-mouthed as the light from the last explosion faded from the sky, and turned to ask Wyll just what in the hells was going on to find him down on one knee with his hand outstretched. Gale gasped and his eyes filled with tears as he grabbed onto Wyll’s hand and held on for dear life. He was dimly aware of the entire crowd staring at them, but he kept his eyes locked on Wyll’s.

“Gale, you are my everything. Steadfast, strong, courageous, and clever. I’ve been thinking about forever, and who I want at my side as it passes. Will you–”

“Yes!” Gale cried through giddy laughter with tears rolling down his cheeks. He tugged on Wyll’s hand and he stood, and while the crowd cheered, Wyll kissed him deeply. Now this was the midnight kiss Gale had been expecting.

They broke the kiss and stared at each other, grinning like idiots and gasping for breath, enamored with each other and the future that now lay before them. Forever, together.

Maybe Gale didn’t hate New Year’s, after all.

[miyosei]

LOVE IS A CHORE !

premise. a step by step guide on how ( not ) to fall in love with your best friend. — ft. xiao

reader is gender neutral, modern (?) au, everyone is in university here, mentions of throwing up but it doesn’t actually happen, xiao is a musician but it isn’t a major plot point i was just inspired by the newest promo video.

one. realize you are in much deeper than you thought.

The first time Xiao felt the switch flip inside of him, the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom on the first day of spring.

It was the last day of the seasonal fair—and you had invited him out to enjoy the evening together. Because your friend had bailed on you and you didn’t want the spare ticket to go to waste. Of course he agreed, what reason did he have not to?

And when he shows up ten minutes late with flushed cheeks and tousled hair and more apologies than he's ever said in his entire life—you laugh it off, assure him it's okay, and jokingly let him know that he still had the rest of the evening to make it up to you.

Xiao takes your words extremely seriously, and as nervous and paranoid and cracked out of his mind he is—he is determined to make it a night the both of you remember. And as always, he keeps his word. You aren’t sure of the last time you had this much fun.

When it’s time for the fireworks to start, he finds himself looking only at you—because you insisted that this is where you get the best view. ‘How cliche,’ he thinks to himself when you drag him to the attraction. But he makes no move to sway you otherwise, and you soon find yourself suspended in the air, sitting right beside him in the ferris wheel's carriage.

You look so nice like this. Well, you always look nice, but this time it’s different. This time it’s just you and him and the muffled sounds of the fireworks booming in the distance. And Xiao thinks that if every day could be like this, with just you and him, maybe that kind of life wouldn’t be so bad.

The realization strikes him like a bolt of lightning. That this is a problem. That he’s really screwed now. That ones Hu Tao finds the cheesy photos the two of you took at the photo booth it is absolutely over for him.

But, Xiao has never given up before. So, in theory, he should be fine… Right?

two. accidentally confess your feelings thinking you’re alone, run away when it turns out you aren’t.

The answer is no; Xiao is not fine. He has spent way too many sleepless nights cursing himself and trying to get you out of his head. It is so easy to not catch feelings for your best friend, how could he have messed up this bad? Xiao thinks it’s stupid, idiotic, and so not like him. It’s just some stupid crush, it’ll go away—it has to go away. Because it’s interfering with his every day life, and Hu Tao will not leave him alone.

The time is noon, this was supposed to be a joint study session between him, Hu Tao, Kazuha, and you. But this time you were the one running late, Kazuha is off in his own world, and Hu Tao decided that instead of actually studying, she wanted to spend her time trying to get a certain phrase out of Xiao’s mouth. One that definitely wasn’t even true.

“Are you done?” he finally speaks and looks at her from across the table with an unamused expression. “Why are you so adamant on this anyway?”

She rolls her eyes and lifts up a finger directly up to his face, “Because you are so obviously in denial! By the way, everyone already knows you like each other. The only two people dumb enough to not realize it are you two.”

Denial is a strong word. And quite honestly, Xiao thinks he could get pretty comfortable with it.

But the corners of his eye twitch ever so slightly, his grip on the pen tightens in his hold, and those two smug grins are almost enough to send him right into a coma—even if he doesn’t physically show it.

“Right… So then what if I do?” He chooses his words carefully, like he’s only entertaining the thought. Like he doesn’t actually have these feelings for you. Because that’s ridiculous, and he would never fall in love.

“You do,” Hu Tao corrects him without missing a beat, and Xiao finally gives up.

“Okay, fine. I do. Now what?”

The grin on her face spells nothing but trouble, and the regret that settles upon seeing it is enough to last Xiao a lifetime and more of embarrassment and shame.

Hu Tao echos your name, something that irritates Xiao more than it should have because yes, obviously it was you. Who else would it be, they were quite literally just talking about this? Unfortunately for him, Hu Tao finds nothing but joy in playing tricks like these—especially if it got a reaction.

“Hmm…. I don’t know, the only thing left to do is start dating and get married!”

Xiao almosts bursts at that sentence alone, his face exploding into the brightest shade of red anyone has ever seen. “Are you crazy?!” he stares at her in a flustered fury, “Don’t even joke about something like that, I’m not going to marry—”

His voice calls flat when he spots you out of the corner of his vision. You’re standing in the doorway, shocked with the most deer in the headlights look carried onto your face. Anything Xiao wants to say finds itself caught in his throat, and he decides to do something he hasn't done for years to come—he bolts for the door and rushes himself right out of the library.

three. try to go back to the way things were, curse yourself when it’s not that easy.

Three days have passed since that incident, and to say things were awkward would be a horrible understatement. Xiao, against his own will, had completely forgotten how to talk to you.

He called you later that night to apologize. That Hu Tao was just trying to rile him up, that he was sorry if you were uncomfortable at all, that you could just forget that entire thing had even happened in the first place. Anything to save both him and you the embarrassment.

You tell him it's alright—you always do. And you invite him to hang out at the nearby arcade, to make things up and to hopefully ease the heavy tension.

It doesn't work. because the moment he sees you he feels like running all over again. Xiao doesn't know if you feel it too, but the awkwardness that lingers in the air is so thick he feels like coughing up the springs in his chest. But he pushes through the discomfort—he promised a fun afternoon, and he doesn't break promises.

And he tries to avoid the subject of his “confession” by any and all means possible. It’s easier than it turns out to be, because Xiao is too busy dragging you around to even think about anything else.

There’s a monotonous buzz in his ear, something he dismisses as a byproduct of being around all of the beeping machines and blasting music. He can hear you call out to him, something out of concern he can only assume—everything is a blur, but Xiao promises he just needs to sit down for only a little bit.

When did he become so scatterbrained? It was never this bad before, he was never nervous around you before. You’ve known each other since elementary school, you were neighbors for even longer than he can remember, he’s slept in the bed of your childhood bedroom. So what changed? What happened to him?

No, nothing happened to you. It was definitely him, something was deeply and fundamentally wrong with him. Because you’re so close, and your hand is on his back because he keeps coughing up a storm, and the scent of your perfume is so sweet that it makes him want to throw up.

Xiao goes home with a high fever and guilty apologies. What was supposed to be a fun day out turned into you walking him back to his dorm room. You promise him it’s okay, and that you only want him to feel better soon. And Xiao, despite wanting to say so much more, says nothing.

He wakes up in a cold sweat later that night, smothered in bed sheets and in the same boring-walled dorm room.

Really, Xiao doesn't think he can keep up this act for very much longer.

four. know that love means being vulnerable, but not weak.

Ganyu almost drops the vase in her hands when Xiao gives her the run down. They were moving things from the concert hall when she’d noticed he was out of it, more so than usual. And against her better judgement, the ever so kind Ganyu prodded him with a stick and jumped back when he actually took the bait.

“And you just… Ran away?” She repeats, wide eyes in disbelief like he had just told her something blasphemous. When Xiao only confirms everything with a bored shrug she almost wants to pull her own hair out. Of course, she was more understanding than most other people, but even Ganyu had her limits. How could he treat this situation so casually? Like he wasn’t ruining his chances with you at this very moment? Like he wasn’t going to cause everyone in his inner circle to start aging prematurely?

Xiao doesn't even deny it and admits to everything with a straight face—that he did run away after indirectly confessing to you, that he’s been trying to avoid you in hopes that these feelings would finally die down, that it’s not working in the slightest and now he only misses you even more than he already did.

Truly, you’re the only one that knows. That underneath his blank eyes and bored expression, Xiao is just as afraid of his own feelings as anybody else. And he could never hate you for simply being you. But you know things about him that he doesn’t even know about himself—and that’s more than terrifying to think about.

He’s spent so long building his character and making sure he’ll never been used again. But you come in with that stupid smile and your dumb sparkly eyes and Xiao feels himself grow weak in the knees and heavy in his chest.

“Would you be okay with that? Dating, I mean.” Ganyu asks after a silence that lasts a little bit too long.

Xiao doesn't say anything. Would he be okay with it? Of course he would. Because you don’t flush at the thought of holding your best friend’s hand, you don’t think about what it would be like to date them, and you definitely don’t dream about kissing them under the moonlight.

And Xiao thinks to himself, that if you were willing to have him, he’d be more than okay with it.

five. confess your feelings — for real this time.

It’s raining, one of the harshest days of the season, and Xiao has caught the weather on a horrible day. He hadn't even bothered to bring an umbrella, soaked through his jacket and pounding his shoes against the slippery pavement in a rush to get to the library, where he was supposed to be 10 minutes ago in a last minute project group work.

He stops only when a shop door opens suddenly and skids to a halt just in time to avoid running straight into you. He stiffens ever so slightly when your eyes meet and you immediately shift to avoid contact, a small part of his heart squeezes in his ribcage. But Xiao’s throat is tight and dry, and any words caught in his chest are unable to come out.

Of course it would be awkward, he's been avoiding you for his own selfishness after all. And at this point, Xiao wouldn't even blame you if you began to resent him even just a little bit. But instead, you silently lean the umbrella over his head and give him a gentle smile. The same one as always.

“Come on,” you tell him, “I’ll walk you to wherever you need to go.”

He lets you, not even daring to argue back. There’s a lot of things he needs to say before his nerves finally kick in and he chickens out. But his hands are sweaty in his pockets and he can feel his chest on the verge of exploding by the second.

What are you thinking about right now, he wonders—stealing glances at you every so often when you aren’t looking. He just has to say it, just has to force the words out of his throat, but no matter how hard he tries, he just can't do it. And the two of you arrive at the library before Xiao can even blink, and he curses himself for being such a coward in such a crucial moment. Of course it would turn out this way, how humiliating.

“Well, we’re here.” You say with a smile that doesn’t quite reach your eyes, something close to regret flutters in your irises. “It was nice, seeing you again. I don't know if you have something going on, but you've been acting weird lately, I guess I missed you a little bit. But if you ever—”

“I like you!”

Xiao blurts out the words without thinking of anything else, exploding them out into the world like confetti on new year's day. His cheeks are flushed, he’s still soaking wet. It’s messy, disorganized, and it’s not even close to the perfect scenario he crafted in his daydreams. But It’s so perfectly him that you just can’t say anything else.

“I like you a lot. I always have. and I think I was so scared that you would hate me; or you would think I’m weird, or that you didn't like me back. And when you walked in that day I was so panicked I didn't—”

He stops talking only when he finally takes note of the tears that build up in your eyes. He blinks once, twice, a third time—then, the reality sinks in and his mind goes into overdrive. In one moment you were standing in front of him, and in the next he met you with a tight embrace, not caring that he was getting your own clothes absolutely drenched.

“I’m sorry,” Xiao whispers quietly when your hands tighten around the sleeves of his jacket.

“Shut up,” you grumble through muffled words and your umbrella fallen beside you on the pavement. For once, you’re thankful that the rain is able to hide your tears—or make them less obvious at the very least, “I’m mad at you right now.”

You aren’t, he knows you aren’t. But really, Xiao thinks he just might've just deserved that one.

six. remember that nothing necessarily has to change at all.

Two weeks have passed since his clumsy confession, two weeks since he’s “officially” become your boyfriend. In quotations, because it feels like it’s always been this way with you. You still watch cheesy romcoms every Saturday, you still support him whenever he has a performance due, Xiao still clings to you in your sleep like he’s done ever since the two of you entered high school.

The only difference now is that he can hold your hand whenever he wants to, and you don’t feel weird about coming around just to hug him from behind anymore. And while he still gets butterflies every time he even thinks about it, it’s more socially acceptable for him to kiss you when he feels like it.

And most times they don't even feel like dates, but now he gets the special 'couples only discount,' at the local cafe, and Hu Tao’s annoying kissy faces become more of a tease than a taunt, and Kazuha is, well, Kazuha.

It’s messy, it’s unorthodox, and it’s a long way from being perfect. But it’s with you, and for Xiao, that’s already more than enough.

[gingerjunhan]

night of fireworks - chapter one

word count: 1,006 | pronouns used: none | genre: fluff, royalty au | cws: inaccurate depictions of royal stuff 😔, lmk if I missed something!

You descended down the staircase, your elegant outfit flowing around you. You looked good- you knew you did- but the hundreds of eyes watching your entrance made you feel as though your every detail was off. Perhaps your hair was out of place, or maybe the small crown that sat heavily on your head was slightly crooked? No matter how you looked, you tried to keep yourself collected; your face remaining stoic until you reached the bottom of the grand stairs.

Ball attendees smiled and bowed politely at you and the king as you made your way across the floor. Thankfully, there was still a light chatter in the air, or else you may have felt faint knowing that every single soul in the room had put their undivided attention on you. Usually, your father would make some sort of grand gesture or speech at the start of a ball, thanking the guests for coming and reminding them what the evening was about- but there was no such need for this occasion. Everybody in the room knew this ball would end with you announcing your betrothal. There were thrones that sat and overlooked the ballroom- one for you and one for the king. Before you even had the chance to sit down, you heard a voice rise from behind you.

“Excuse me, Your Highness?” You turn to find a man with dark hair, dressed in black and gold. His smile was charming, but upon making eye contact with him, he dropped into a deep bow. “My name is Gunil. I am one of the suitors your father invited over from a neighboring kingdom,” he spoke into the floor as if he needed your approval to stand upright again. “It is an honor to make your acquaintance this evening.”

You were charmed by his willingness to step up and introduce himself right at the beginning of the evening. It made a good first impression- you’ll give him that.

“The honor is mine, Gunil,” you speak softly, watching as he stands up straight again and gives you a charming smile. “Thank you for being so willing to make the trip to our humble kingdom.”

“Humble by no means!” he smiled. “Your Highness, your kingdom is thriving, the people are happy, and my kingdom hears talks of your incredible trades,” Gunil looked over your shoulder and gave a small smile to the king as if he wanted him to hear how he was praising your economy. “Your kingdom- much like your beauty- is something to be jealous of.”

You gave him a bashful smile, “thank you.”

“Your Highness,” Gunil continued, “I was wondering if you would give me the honor of granting me your first dance of the evening?”

“I would be delighted.”

Gunil held out his hand for you to take as he led you onto the dance floor. You had to admit, he was pulling out all the stops. His good manners, his high praises of your kingdom, his chivalry; it was charming. Hopefully, his dance skills were as well-rounded as his manners were.

His hands landed on your waist while yours gently held his shoulders, and he began to guide you both into a simple waltz. Some couples around you were dancing as well, but it still felt like all eyes were on you. You glance up at Gunil, and he seems too absorbed in his own thoughts to notice.

“Gunil?” You call gently, causing him to look from his feet to your eyes. “Are you quite alright?”

“Oh- y-yes. My apologies, Your Highness. I,” he chuckled bashfully, “I must admit to you that I am not the best dancer. I have to have a strong focus on my steps so I do not step on your feet by accident.”

You chuckled softly, giving him a warm smile. “That is more than okay,” you assured him. “Just relax and let the music guide you.”

He nodded to himself, and you could see his shoulders relax a bit. The dance was going smoothly until- just like he forewarned- Gunil missed a step and tripped over his own feet. He took the misstep well, chuckling and meeting your eyes again once he straightened himself out again.

“My apologies,” he smiled. “I did not mean to embarrass you on the dancefloor.” According to the pink hue that brushed over his cheeks, he seemed to be the only one who truly felt embarrassed.

“It is no problem at all,” you assured him. “With the way you’ve been carrying yourself so far this evening, the other attendants of the ball may have assumed you were planning to show me your dance skills all along. It was not a misstep. It was a… small solo performance.” You giggle, causing him to chuckle alongside you.

“Exactly my plan, Your Highness,” he jokes as well. “Just a means to impress you.” You find his willingness to go along with a joke so willingly to be endearing- even if it may come at his own expense.

Your dance together carries on until eventually, the song comes to an end. With wide smiles, the two of you bow to one another, thanking the other for joining you out on the floor. Once again, Gunil held out a hand, and he escorted you back to the king's side.

“Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to make your acquaintance this evening, Your Highness,” Gunil smiled gratefully. “Hopefully we can cross paths again for another dance later this evening.”

“It was a pleasure to meet you, Gunil.”

“The pleasure is mine.” Gunil raises your hand to his lips, leaving a small kiss on your knuckles. You can feel eyes falling on you once again. “Good evening, Your Highness.” With one final bow, Gunil makes his way back onto the floor. Once he was out of eyesight, you took a seat on your throne

“He seemed very chivalrous,” the king observed simply.

“He was,” you agreed. “He has most definitely set the bar for the other suitors this evening.”

chapter two

taglist: @mon2sunjinsuver , @mini-mews , @mxlly143 , @somethingaboutcheese , @weluvjeong , comment to be added!⁎⁺˳✧༚

[thotsforvillainrights]

Shigaraki smut headcanons? Sorry if you've already done this, I just love crusty boi. (　＾ω＾)

(You're fine, Anon! It's one of those cases where it FEELS like it's been done but probably hasn't lol. I went and checked the new and old masterlist and couldn't find anything. Now's my chance to add it to the collection ^_^)

~Shigaraki Smut Headcanons~

headcanon|scenario|imagine|match-up|drabble

-Really would like to say he's a freak in bed but I don't think he's all that wild...at least not at first. I feel like he has a lot of love to give when he opens himself up for it. There's not really much lust between the two of you at first (not on his end at least). His walls are up really high and for a while he starts to feel really guilty about developing feelings for you. He's not sure if he deserves to have love given to him, or to give love to others. All his life he's been focused on what he hates and not enough on what he could love. When you come along, he's filled with anger at the fact you were able to get to him so easily.

-He can't deny any longer that he has feelings for you. When you try to reciprocate these feelings then it becomes complex. He's not letting you in as easily. He prays at night that you give up on him, that you leave for your own good. At the same time he wants to open himself up to you but he just doesn't know how. When he finally decides to let himself go and feel for once in his life, it becomes likely the most beautiful and simultaneously terrifying experience he's had. When you say you love him, it's invigorating. When you touch him...touch his skin of all people, he feels special. He feels confused all at the same time. Why would you chose him?

-He's scared at first to talk about you, to feel pride out loud. he's scared he'll somehow jinx things and that he'll wind up hurting or even worse is that he'll wind up hurting you instead. It's not just the mental hurt he's worried about either. It's the pysical hurt and the crushing idea that he might slip up and you'll be gone forever. Even with gloves as a precaution, he's still not up to the idea of touching you. Why should he when he doesn't deserve to touch you anyway? A demon with an angel like you? What a cruel and disgusting joke. Don't you know if he were to mess up then you'd be nothing more than a pile of ash and memories? You don't care. You want his touch, his hugs and kisses. And just like always, he's weak to deny you. He gives up and cautiously inches into the next phase of your relationship.

-When the sex finally comes into play, he feels a bit overwhelmed. Understandably you should come to expect him not lasting very long for the first few times. Can you blame him? You're something akin to a sinful pool of gold and he's strong enough to hold back. He's focusing all his energy on making you feel good, keeping a handle on his quirk, and trying not to hurt you all at the same time. Your sex brings fireworks out. His vision gets spotty once before and leave him wondering if he might pass out. He's breathless, his skin damp with sweat and his legs weak...shaking from your activities together. He's quiet but you can still hear him making sound just for you. It's all for you.

-Because he won't focus on his own pleasure, you end up taking the reigns in that department. It takes some time for him to settle down and accept that you actually WANT to make him feel good instead. Of course you do, why wouldn't you want to return the favor? He can't grasp the concept at first. That's okay, he didn't need to think too hard. Just lay back and let you handle it yes?

-His drive doesn't seem to be that high, nor too low. If anything, he's a perfect in-between, matching your pace perfectly. He's moldable like clay for you. He'll fold and bend at your will but he also remains understanding of his own needs and preferences as well. I think maybe later on in the relationship you can see him getting a little rougher in bed. Of course at your request, he learns the ins and outs of it. Shigaraki after gaining a power-up shows a considerable difference in the ways he goes about things but that's a story for a different time.

[hunieday]

Yuki Rabbitube Mini - Rabbit Chat

Please note that I am not a professional translator and I'm only doing this to share the side materials to those who cannot access them, if you notice any mistakes please let me know nicely. Enjoy!

Yuki: I saw you two in my dream today

Yuki: Thank you for appearing

Nanase Riku: Huh!? I appeared in your dream!? 😲✨

Yaotome Gaku: I’m kinda happy!

Yaotome Gaku: Do you remember what it was about?

Yuki: Well, it had a strong and vivid impact

Yuki: You were wearing happi coats and twisted headbands as you carried a portable shrine all night long.

Nanase Riku: 

Yaotome Gaku: All night!? That's some dedication.

Nanase Riku: You were completely influenced by Rabbimini weren’t you?!

Yuki: not only did you carry the shrine the entire night, you were also shouting "wasshoi" without a break.

Yaotome Gaku: Why?

Yuki: Who knows. You were the one shouting, Gaku-kun, not me

Yaotome Gaku: No that was me in the dream!?

Nanase Riku: Then let's decide on a reason now! What do you think, Yaotome-san!

Yaotome Gaku: Hmm. Not sure...

Yuki: That’s hilarious. you're seriously thinking about it

Nanase Riku: Maybe saying "wasshoi" increases your power!

Yaotome Gaku: I like that! And it also enhances our sense of unity, so let's go with that!

Nanase Riku: Yippee! 😆 It's decided then, Yuki-san!

Yuki: good for you

Yuki: Just as you two were saying, “let’s aim for the top of Mount Fuji!” I jolted awake. 

Yaotome Gaku: Ain’t that a big scale dream!

Nanase Riku: A festival at the top of Mount Fuji sounds amazing! 🪭✨

Yuki: I bet you’d still have high energy even after climbing

Yuki: I'll just wait down here

Nanase Riku: Then we have to make the festival lively enough for Yuki-san to see us 💪😤

Yaotome Gaku: I wonder if he’ll be able to? Maybe we should set off fireworks

Yuki: Real fireworks? or human fireworks like in rabbimini?

Yaotome Gaku: Please don't call it human fireworks lmao

Nanase Riku: Human fireworks…how about we play that in the background!

Nanase Riku: "Tarumono boys! ~MATSURI~" 🎆🎆🎆

Yaotome Gaku: The way you phrased it…

Yuki: Sounds good. Are they gonna be set off in sync with "wasshoi" too?

Nanase Riku: 

Nanase Riku: That’s gonna be real hard since they keep shouting wasshoi in the second half 😂✨ lol

Yuki: I really wanna see it now. I’ll go back to sleep and see the rest

Yaotome Gaku: You're going back to sleep!?

Yuki: i shouldn’t... let's listen to Matsuri for now

Yuki: It's a great song. Yamato-kun sounds very energetic

Nanase Riku: Yamato-san always looks happy while performing it live! He always holds a large fan, he’s so lively >u<🪭

Yuki: You must have a ton of fun performing it live too, Gaku-kun.

Yaotome Gaku: It's hella fun!

Yaotome Gaku: Riding a trolley and seeing fans' smiles up close makes it really easy to join in. You can feel a growing sense of unity and excitement alongside the audience.

Yuki: The "wasshoi" chant solves all problems

Nanase Riku: I have an idea! How about we sing it together next time? I wanna go to karaoke!

Yuki: Sounds fun. who will take which part?

Yaotome Gaku: I’m gonna take any part that’s not mine since it’s a special occasion!

Nanase Riku: Oh! Can I try your part, Yaotome-san? I want to say "appare...😏” It sounds fun 💪

Yaotome Gaku: Hell yeah! Looking forward to the Nanase Version of "appare"

Yuki: What about you, Gaku-kun. maybe nagi-kun's part?

Nanase Riku: I wanna hear it!!!!

Yaotome Gaku: I’ll put my heart and soul on the "Ladies and gentlemen!!" part! What about you, Yuki-san?

Yuki: I'll go with Yamato-kun’s part. I'll bring glasses and shout "now, it's a festival!!" though I might run out of energy right at the start

Yuki: I’m glad nobody took Mitsuki-kun’s part. I’m planning to give that to Momo

Nanase Riku: so you decided…! Tho I’m sure Momo-san will do that part very well! Especially the part where you laugh “Ha ha ha ha ha” real loud!

Nanase Riku: 

Yuki: 

Yaotome Gaku: Should we bring happi coats or headbands while singing?

Yuki: huh?

Yaotome Gaku: Oh, headbands might be better than happi coats after all

Yuki: are you really that into it?

Nanase Riku: I think it’s a great idea! Our office presidents performed a TRIGGER song the other day, they sang and even dressed up like them >:)👍

Yuki: Isn't Takanashi Production amazing?

Yaotome Gaku: Sorry, I've gotten too used to that kind of thing lmao

Yuki: Okay. let's carry a portable shrine while we’re at it

Nanase Riku: Huh!?

Yaotome Gaku: A portable shrine!?

Yuki: The NEXT Re:vale spirit has been ignited. We can't lose to Takanashi Production.

Nanase Riku: Our agency is amazing for setting Re:vale on fire ‼

Yaotome Gaku: How are we even gonna bring it to karaoke...? should we rent the place?

Yuki: I told you the NEXT Re:vale spirit is awake. we'll do it on the show

Yuki: Since it's the very last Rabbimini, let's gather all 16 of us and have a "Rabbimini Thank You Festival." what do you think?

Nanase Riku: Th-that's awesome...!

Yaotome Gaku: As expected of Re:vale...!

Yuki: If we're gonna do this then let's have a full-fledged festival. We gotta set up stalls, which ones do you want?

Nanase Riku: Ohhh!! I'm torn!! Maybe candy apples or baked potatoes...

Nanase Riku: Cotton candy!! I wanna make cotton candy!! i’m so excited to spin it around and make fluffy candy!

Yaotome Gaku: Then I'll make yakisoba! we did it in Rabbimini too. I'll cook up some delicious soba!

Nanase Riku: Yaotome-san cooking on a griddle, so cool...! ✨

Yaotome Gaku: Thanks. I think you'd look good making cotton candy

Yuki: I'll be in charge of the mask stall. Sitting sounds comfortable

Nanase Riku: Please make one of Kokona-chan too!

Yuki: Sure thing. I know a kid who’d be happy with it

Yaotome Gaku: Can you make Saddle man too? I know a few guys who’d like that!

Yuki: who...?

Nanase Riku: It's a character from a game Tamaki’s playing! 😳

Yuki: A game...? Is his face a saddle...?

Yaotome Gaku: You don't know "Seventh Riders"?

Yuki: I don't know... I wonder if they’re supposed to be riding something…

Nanase Riku: Yes! Saddle doesn’t wear anything on his head 😳 his face is half hidden though!

Yuki: he’s in a biker gang?

Yaotome Gaku: nuh-uh, It's not a bike it's a bicycle!

Yuki: he’s a pervert?

Yaotome Gaku: lmao

Yaotome Gaku: I'm explaining it poorly, but from an outsider's perspective he sure is a weird character lmao 

Nanase Riku: We have no other choice but to spread the word, Yaotome-san! 🔥

Yaotome Gaku: Yeah. Rokuya knows a lot about that sorta thing right? We should ask him how to spread propaganda

Yuki: that sounds terrifying... make sure the room is well-lit.

Yuki: But anyways, the Rabbimini Thank You Festival sounds like it'll be a blast. I'll talk to Momo about it and call you later

Nanase Riku: Yes!! Looking forward to it 🥳

Nanase Riku:

Yaotome Gaku: 

Yuki: 

[the-ranting-blog-for-izzy]

Aight I'ma try to put together a comprehensible rant of the entire lore of my pizza tower blog/Crystal pizza tower au (including the stuff that hasn't happened)oh to explain this a bit more easily I'm going to be putting it in two sections, section 1 will hold full explanations of each character and section 2 will include the arcs

I'mma start by doing just one character at a time, this one is going to be for PizzaHead/Totino

TW ABUSE, DARK MAGIC, AND DEPRESSION. (THERE MAY BE OTHER STUFF THAT I MISSED)

PizzaHead's charter explanation:

BackStory: So as we all know Totino used to live in a circus, but what none of you know is Tina was actually a homunculus created with a mixture of alchemy and dark magic~ (more on this topic later on) for now let's stay on the circus topic! Now let's just say his life in the circus wasn't exactly.... Friendly, in fact it was extremely abusive! In fact Totino would often get tased when he failed an act, the same went for his sister Archie, but this thing is Totino remember his life at the circus is perfect bliss, with NO abuse happening at all. "why is that?" I hear you asking, well the thing is whilst in the circus his traitor has a dark spell onto the entirety of the circus members, leaving them to only experience this perfect fake bliss that the creater manufactured for them so they wouldn't fight back.... Now let's skip forward until both Totino and Archie are 14 (this is when the circus burnt down) The twins mom said that they could light the fireworks that night, Totino exactly right off to the box where they are kept all the fireworks a lighter in hand, now since neither of the twins knew how to safely light fireworks so Totino and I'm lighting the firework in his hand inside of the tent, this as you can imagine, led to a lot of chaos.... This fire killed everybody but four people, Totino, Totino's mom, Totino's creator, and his auntie. Now let's skip to about a week later, Totino and Archie has been on the run, trying to find a place to safely stay at. They ended finding a under ground basement (Totino later as a adult would build the tower over this basement!) Now thankfully there ended up being a medibox in this basement (the reason they needed this is because Archie got severely injured by the fire) but unfortunately to Tina was too late, the infection that Archie had was too strong in she ended up dying in Totino's arms.... No this loss of his sister permanently harmed Totino mentally, it left his brocken, no, shattered. Lets skip to how this effects him in present times, over the many many years that Tino has lives the loss of his sister is still haunted into the point where you gave him crippling depression, made it where he could barely care for himself for the tower that he had built, so he built a robot (Digi/PizzaFace) to help care for the tower and to help make sure that he cared for himself. He went on for many years like this until that he ended up becoming fed up with being so fucking sad, he decide that he needs some human reaction to distract him from his morning, so he opened up the ask blog! Now this did legitimately help, a little... Unfortunately since you don't want to be all sad and mopey around people he ended up becoming a separate persona, a happy-go-lucky version of himself that he used to ignore his problems, but unfortunately his problems were too much for him to ignore would like to him gaining incredible amounts of anxiety making it hard for him to keep hiding his problems, at least untill he met random l, or more like when random met him. His love with random I give him something here and experience for many many years, Joy, pure joy. It also get from one other thing, hope, the hope that maybe he could get past his past, but since he was still using his persona to hide his problems he couldn't fully get past it all, if fact he couldn't get it past it at all, slowly waiting time to become back to how we used to be, depressed and tired (Random, this is in fact what you're currently witnessing inside of the Ask Blog! Which is also why Digi ask you to go help him as you're currently one of the only people who could really help him out of this hell hole....)

Now let's do something a little simpler, I'ma start using a bit of the format that I used to explain my OCS! To help explain Totino's character a bit more to people who haven't been in the blog.

Design details:

Adult ⬇️ Kid ⬇️

Okie let's start what's the kiddo since there's only one thing that I want to point out, reason his eyes are blue and pink like the usually ours cuz that's when he was under the dark magic spell the crater set him under!

Okie now let's do adult Tino's design! The the first one is what he looks like when he is fully dressed/ using his fake persona, he wears gloves to hi the fact that he has paw beans and uses makeup to hide all of his (are there brown or green but I haven't decided on a color yet) scales. He also uses a LOT of hair gel to smoothen down his fur and to make it look like he has a pizza crust thank you by specifically doing his hair. He uses quite a lot of makeup to hide all of his scales, but he also uses to make up to hide his raccoon mask pattern that he has around his eyes! Oh and instead of normal for he has rabbit paws :3 (you can see all these extra details in the secondary adult photo)

Personality: silly, goofy, fake, sad, depressed, gullible, dreamer, hopeless romantic, easily embarrassed, surprisingly romantic, good to romance, smart, thanks a little too literally sometimes, smarts before self care and personality, very science'sy, not city smart AT ALL, scared of people, and introverted.

Extra Info: him and random ( @random-obsseser) are both together as lovers! (I'm the number one fan btw :3) Totino's number one wish is to bring back his sister, his second one is to be human (he hates his current form...) his creator used three bits of animal DNA when creating him, Raccoon, Rabbit, and Dragon! He in fact does chitter like a raccoon when he wants something, need something, or is feeling a strong emotion (specifically fear, anger and sadness) he purrs when he's happy. He considers every single clone/creation that he has made to be his children of sorts (yes in this au he still creates cheese slimes and clones!). He has about a billion dollars to his name, but he uses all of his money to continue making the tower better and not for himself most of the time. You can in fact distract him with shiny objects or a laser pointer. He has a giant duck plush named Francois. He has a pet dog (one of his own creations) named Bibi! She looks like this ⬇️

Aight that's all :]

(I can't wait to share these goobers with the world EEEEEE!!!)

@mrfellsans @random-obsseser @chaotichyperfixations @cutechan555

[icarusflewsworld]

Rhysand & Cassian & Azriel X OC

Hello, here is the chapter 34 of a fanfiction on the world of Acotar where our three favorite Batboys are the mates of a single woman.

Luxiana still hides a lot of things but I hope you liked this chapter and appreciated the revelations of the beginning of her past.

Next chapter, Sunday 16 and the three Illyrians will not bear not having been able to save Luxiana's wings.

Thank you again for all your love. I love you !!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

! Don't forget to read the previous chapters ! : Here

🚫 This chapter contains some Trigger Warnings like: vomiting, crying, panic attacks, violence, mention of rape, mention of suicide, torture, blood, and maybe more.🚫

Be careful what you read so you don't hurt yourself.

Chapter 34

Time froze around them as the three Illyrians' breaths caught in their throats.

Her body had been traumatized and injured??

A terrible fear rose in their chests as they widened their eyes a little.

"How so?" Cassian trembled in confusion and apprehension as he took a step towards her. His breathing became rapid.

Rhysand had seen it. He had felt it. He had known from the start that something bad had happened to his soulmate.

Luxiana took a very deep breath before letting it all out. "I'm not human."

The three Illyrians winced, narrowing their eyes. They looked at each other in confusion.

“Excuse me?” Rhysand asked in a whisper.

“I’m not human. I’m fae,” Luxiana assured, fiddling with her fingers in stress.

Azriel's eyes widened. She was telling the truth, and for the first time, his shadows confirmed something about his soulmate. "Fae, fae, fae," they repeated. "You…," he tried to speak but had to pull back as if struck by realization. "You're not human?"

"No."

The sincerity in her pupils struck Rhysand who flinched. She wasn't human. "Are you serious?"

“Yes,” Luxiana agreed sadly.

"What?" Cassian yelled. "But how?" He shook his head. He couldn't believe his eyes, his ears.

The three Illyrians, lost and confused, looked at each other and then suddenly, they realized. Everything made sense. That was why she resisted Rhys' power so well, that she was so strong, that she knew so much about their world but above all, that was why they had immediately felt their soulmate bond clearly from the beginning.

Hope welled up in all three of their chests, exploding in a firework of relief. She was a fae! Their soulmate wasn't human. So her days weren't numbered. She wasn't going to age quickly. Their days with her weren't numbered.

A wide smile emerged on Rhysand's face as he fell to his knees in front of Luxiana. He grabbed the blonde's hands. Her eyes were bright with joy and tears but his relief faded as he noticed the sadness in his soulmate's gaze.

Cassian let out a burst of laughter. He spun around, running his hands through his hair. He was shaking with relief. He suddenly felt so light. He was going to be able to spend centuries with his soulmate. "But why didn't you tell us right away?" he laughed, turning to Luxiana. But he too lost his smile. Why was she sad?

Azriel kept his brow furrowed. Something was wrong. Something was very wrong. This didn't make sense. "And why don't you heal yourself then? A fae should heal."

Luxiana's throat was tight. "Because I'm half high fae and half… Illyrian."

Cassian's eyes widened as he found his smile again. "You're Illyrian?!" he exclaimed, overjoyed at what it meant. She was just like them. He lunged toward her to hug her. She was just like them. But he stopped halfway, his expression turning white and faded as his eyes fell on the void in her back where wings should have been.

All three of them tensed up as they stopped breathing as they all realized the same thing. Their chests compressed again. They remembered her words. Her body had been traumatized.

"Please Luxiana," Rhysand pleaded as he realized a little more. "Please tell me you were born without wings."

Luxiana's chin twitched in sadness. A tear rolled down her cheek as the look she gave Rhysand answered him silently. "I ripped them out. I had to rip them out."

The world felt like it was collapsing on the three Illyrians, their shoulders hunched.

Rhysand fell onto his butt as fear gradually took over his face.

Cassian had to take several steps back, shaking his head. "What?" he managed to say. He had misheard. He had misheard.

Azriel was completely frozen. He felt nothing, saw nothing, heard nothing. He didn't believe it. He didn't want to believe it. He couldn't believe it. It would destroy him. It was a nightmare.

Luxiana lowered her eyes as large tears began to flow down her cheeks. "It's my fault you know?" And she couldn't hold back the flood of words from her heavy heart anymore. "My mother was Illyrian. She had her wings clipped when she was young so when she had me, with my father, they decided to move away from the Illyrian camps. My father was originally from the Winter Court. They met in a trading town by chance and they had been soulmates. They had known it right away. But my father was a high fae so their relationship was not very well seen by the Illyrians and the other fae. And there was no way their child would suffer from it. So when my mother found out she was pregnant, they isolated themselves in a small house in the Illyrian mountains. They built a house with their hands and had me. I had skin as pale as my father's. I had hair as white as his. And my wings…," She blurted out

a sad little laugh. “They were just as white.”

“My mother gave birth during the night and with all that white I had on me, she felt like I was lighting them up. That's why they called me 'Luxiana', it means light."

The three Illyrians were completely still, eyes wide and breathless. They could barely hear what her soulmate was encountering, yet their brains memorized every word she said. She had wings. Something horrible like pure terror rose in their stomachs.

Luxiana looked at them with her eyes blurred with tears and she didn't know what to think of their reactions. Did they hold a grudge against her? "I didn't really lie to you when I told you about my parents, you know. My mother was overprotective of me and wouldn't let me go out too much to protect my wings. Hers had been cut off so she kept telling me that my wings were the most precious thing in the world. But I didn't understand. I hated that she only let me fly for a few minutes, tied to a rope so that I wouldn't run away. I didn't understand so I really ran away when I was 8 years old. I flew for so long and so far. I just wanted to fly and see the world. I finally felt so good and so free. So much."

Then her little smile faded. "I flew over the next town and I wanted to see it so much as there was a bustle in the streets. People were laughing and having fun. So I landed. I wandered around in wonder for a bit, maybe for hours just looking at everything."

She paused, taking a deep, shaky breath. “Then I ran into a group of Illyrians. And when they saw my white wings... Disgust and fear ran through them. But I was too young to understand what it was. And... that’s when my parents found me. And when the group of Illyrians realized my parents were bound... They..."

She started crying even harder. "There were 8 of them, they jumped on us. My parents couldn't do anything. They broke my dad's neck because of me. Because I ran away. I still remember the sound his neck bone made when it broke. I still remember his eyes clouding over when the life left his heart. And I remember my mother's piercing scream."

And Luxiana sobbed. “And they took my mother and me away. They locked us in a dark, damp cave. I was tied by the wrists and ankles and by my wings with big stakes in them and chains embedded in the stone wall. They...”

She spoke fast. Very fast. She didn't want to remember this. She wanted to get it over with as soon as possible. Why was she telling them this anyway? She didn't want to talk about it. She let out a loud, violent sob. Her face was filled with tears and contorted with sadness and guilt. "They... They said I was a monster with my white wings and my mixed blood. They visited us almost every day, and..."

She couldn't breathe. "They broke all my bones and my wings over and over and over again. They put them back in place so they could heal properly and so they could break them again. And you'd think you'd get used to the pain but you didn't. It hurt so much more each time. And my wings," she couldn't breathe. "They would rip my wings off my shoulder blades leaving just a little inch of skin attached. And they would glue them back to my back so I would heal and when it did, they would rip them off again. I was in pain. So much pain all the time. And I was screaming my eyes out but no one would help me. No one ever came to help us."

Cassian was shaking so much he was vibrating. Azriel was shaking his head vigorously refusing to listen. Rhysand moved a little away from Luxiana, sliding to the ground.

They couldn't believe it. They didn't want to believe it. Their stomachs were so upset they wanted to throw up. Their hearts hurt. So much that they couldn't breathe. They couldn't think of anything because they were in shock but they were in so much pain.

Their faces were full of horror and fear but they were in so much pain in their hearts, muscles and souls. They were in agony and felt like they were being torn apart from the inside. But they were just completely paralyzed and unable to move, speak or think.

Luxiana began to cry even harder. She clenched her fists on her thighs, clutching her dress in her hands. She felt like she was suffocating. Her heart was in pieces with the memories. It was so long ago and she could usually talk about it without crying, without feeling anything anymore, but there, in front of them, she felt so worthless, so weak, so disgusting. In front of them, her wounds seemed to reopen and make her suffer martyrdom.

“But what they did to my mother,” she tried to resume. She had to clamp her hand over her mouth to stop herself from throwing up. “They raped her to ‘teach’ her. They broke her and in the end, she couldn’t take it anymore. In the end, she…,”

Luxiana cried even louder, almost screaming. She felt like she was dying, again. "She had come to hate me. I had killed my father, her soulmate. She cried all the time and she kept telling me it was my fault. And it was my fault."

Luxiana put her hand on her heart that was hurting her as she leaned forward to try to get air. She felt like she was dying. Her body hurt everywhere. She couldn't breathe anymore. She was in pain. "It lasted for years. I counted every day to try not to go crazy. But..."

She shook her head, closing her eyes. “On the day of the 100th year, I quit.”

The three Illyrians' eyes widened a little more. Cassian fell onto his knees. Rhysand stood up suddenly and stepped back sharply, placing his two hands on his mouth. And Azriel let out a tearless sob, putting his hands on his thighs to keep from falling. "You were tortured for 100 years?" the spymaster managed to say in a strangled voice but without really realizing.

All three of them were in complete shock and it was the only thing keeping them from completely collapsing.

“I stopped counting after 100 years,” Luxiana replied, sobbing. “I don’t know how long it lasted in the end. I don’t even really know how old I am. They broke my bones so many times that I couldn’t grow in that time. I was still a child physically.”

“But one day... One day, I couldn't take it anymore. I... They had broken my wrists and ankles in such a way that the chains had slipped from it. I was now only attached by my wings and it had been a few days since they had visited us so I had been able to heal my bones a little. So I…”

Luxiana raised her head, trying not to regret her decision, trying to look proud. But her chin was shaking, her body was broken, and her hot tears were burning her cheeks. “I took one of my wings in my hand. It had healed completely and reattached itself to my back in just a few days. So I… I had to rip it all off again myself. I pulled and pulled, screaming in pain. It took me hours, maybe days, to completely remove both of them…”

"I think that with all the times they had torn off my wings a little, my body had healed in a certain way so that I would not bleed out. I was bleeding a lot but much less. I was exhausted, I had so much pain in my body and my heart. And I screamed and cried looking at my beautiful bloody white wings, attached to the wall, hanging there vulgarly like a vulgar garment.”

A tear rolled down Cassian's cheek as his entire body was paralyzed with fear, horror, and dread. Rhysand clamped both of his shaking hands over his mouth to keep from screaming. Azriel swallowed the bile rising in his mouth. He was going to throw up. His heart was breaking.

“But I managed to crawl to my mother. I untied her but... but she had gone completely crazy. She hated me so much... The mad look in her eyes... She threw herself at me and strangled me to try to kill me. And I was crying and I let her do it. But at the last moment, she... She stopped. She got up and grabbed one of the knives they had left there. She told me one last time with disgust that it was all my fault, that she hated me, and she slit her throat in front of me.”

Luxiana couldn't breathe anymore. She was crying so loudly that she almost shouted her words.

And the three Illyrians couldn't breathe either. Their faces were now twisted with sadness and horror as tears silently streamed down their faces.

“I... I didn’t know what to do. I was all alone. I was all alone. My parents died because of me.” She clutched the skin on her neck, making red marks. She hated herself. She wanted to tear her skin off. “So I finally got out of the cave and ran. I ran for hours until I collapsed somewhere in the middle of a gloomy forest. I had lost so much blood. I was so tired. I was in so much pain everywhere. I thought I wasn’t going to wake up and I finally felt the peace I had in a long time knowing that it was going to end. I was so relieved to die.”

“But when I woke up, I was still alive.” Surprisingly, Luxiana calmed down a bit. Her tears became less frequent and she was able to breathe again as she remembered. “Someone had saved me and spent months trying to heal me naturally since my body wouldn’t heal anymore and his magic wasn’t healing me. He healed me physically and a little mentally too.”

She took deep breaths, her heart healing like HE had healed hers. "But he couldn't keep me around, it was too dangerous for me. So he dropped me off on the other side of the wall with the humans. He gave me money and explained what to do, but I was still eight years old in my head and I was only just starting to grow physically. Since I wasn't healing anymore, he figured the human realm was safer, so he left me there. All alone. But..."

“But I had no reason to live anymore. My body was almost completely healed but it still hurt so much. I couldn't walk straight and stand for long without my wings and most importantly, I didn't have my wings anymore. I didn't have my parents anymore. I had nothing left anymore. No reason to live anymore. I... I just wanted it all to stop.” Big silent tears ran down the cheeks of the four. “I just wanted to die.”

“So I headed straight. And I walked aimlessly. Then I came to the top of a huge cliff where powerful waves from the sea were crashing a few meters below.”

“I walked towards the edge. The fall would have been fatal. And I started to smile a little while taking a deep breath. I was so relieved. It was going to be over. And I jumped. But someone grabbed my arm and pulled me up. Feyre. She was crying. She was as small as me and she was yelling at me that if I jumped then she would jump too. That she couldn’t take it anymore either but that there were people who were counting on her to live. She was as unhappy and sad as I was. So, I… I don’t know, I told myself that my death could

waiting and that... No one had come to save me... But... maybe I could be that person for Feyre. I knew what it felt like to be sad. It hurt so much and I didn't want her to feel like that.”

“So I helped Feyre. I taught her what my mother had taught me. How to hunt, how to skin, how to pick the right plants… And I tried to find a job to give her the money, during the time I taught her all that, and the time to finish it all. And that’s when I met Keydan, Jasper and all the others. I got attached to them and I got a little taste for life again. With Feyre, they helped me, soothed me and made me happy. Keydan…, "

Luxiana had stopped crying as she looked down at her silver bracelet with blue stones. She took it in her fingers and stroked it. "To make me feel better and to forget a little... Keydan gave me this. It's a magical artifact that hides what you want to hide."

She gripped the clasp and opened the bracelet to remove it. A blistered scar appeared on her thigh, another on her stomach… Deep wounds that had been burned. But it was the one on her back that hurt the most.

She turned around to kneel on the bed and turn her back to the Illyrians. She passed

her hair on her shoulder and the hearts of the three males were permanently torn apart, creating a horrible, deep and unhealable rift in their souls.

Two scars - surprisingly wing-shaped - disfigured both of their soulmate's shoulder blades.

She had had wings. She had had wings and she had to tear them off. She had been

physically and mentally tortured for over 100 years.

Luxiana put her bracelet back on and the scars disappeared.

Azriel couldn't take it. He was going to throw up. He was in so much pain but he didn't want her to see him so weak. He couldn't be strong for her. He couldn't. He was in so much pain. He had to throw up.

So he started running. He stormed out of the room and into his own. He threw himself into his bathroom, onto his toilet, and started throwing up.

Images of her soulmate as a little girl screaming in pain as her bones were broken or her wings were torn off bloomed in his mind. Her face in tears as they raped her mother in front of her eyes. The horrible guilt that had probably destroyed her because of her mother's words that had failed to keep a cool head.

He had been locked up for a few years, he had felt so bad, so alone. And then his soulmate had lived much worse than what he had lived. She had been tortured for so long. By the gods. Why??

And he threw up even more with all his might. He threw up everything he had violently while his heart felt like it was being torn apart. His chest was on fire, his body was shaking and he was crying. My god, for over 100 years.

Her little, sunny, cute, adorable soulmate had waited over 100 years for someone to come and save her. But no one had come. No one.

Azriel hadn't found her. Azriel hadn't known. His shadows knew everything but they had never told him about her soulmate. 

Her little princess. She had to tear off her wings.

Azriel was sobbing violently and loudly over the toilet. And he was crying even harder. His eyes had never cried so much. He had never been in so much pain. Why was life so unfair? Why had it been so cruel to his little soulmate? She was just an innocent child.

An innocent child.

Azriel was still throwing up. And he was crying and he was screaming. He hadn't been there for her.

He felt bad about it.

He hated himself.

And Azriel was crying. He was crying.

When Cassian saw the scars on his soulmate's back, everything became more real, more tangible. Everything. His soulmate had lost everything and she felt guilty.

She had to tear off her wings to save her mother. She had to be so brave. So strong. Cassian could never have. He could have torn off an arm but not his wings. Not his freedom. Not his ability to fly.

As Azriel left the room, Cassian noticed the sad look on his soulmate's face, who now felt like crying again. She needed them. She needed help.

Cassian glanced at Rhysand but the lord was crying, his eyes wide, his hands over his mouth as he stood there pinned in the middle of the room. He wouldn't be able to help Luxiana.

As a bolt of adrenaline shot through Cassian, he helped himself up. He was shaking but clenched his muscles and gritted his teeth to keep it from showing. He took a deep breath and stopped crying to angrily rub his tears away. He had only cried a few times in his life but never this much.

He approached Luxiana with a heavy, rigid step to grab her arm and slide his hand to the blonde's.

Luxiana stood up on her two feet, looking at Cassian with intrigue and confusion, but the Illyrian pulled her to the balcony. He turned her around, wrapped his arms around her stomach to stick his torso to the young woman's back. And Cassian flew into the starry sky.

Luxiana let out a small cry of surprise as she tried to cling to Cassian's arms as best she could as the void and town spread out beneath her. She glanced over her shoulder at him. "What are you doing?"

Cassian pulled her a little tighter against him. "I'll be your wings." He looked calm but his heart was beating fast and painfully in his chest as he saw adrenaline burning throughout his body. But thanks to that at least he was standing. For now.

Luxiana's eyes widened at the Illyrian's words. Her heart skipped a beat. "What?"

Cassian landed on the square concrete roof of one of the houses. He set Luxiana on her feet and released her.

She turned back to him with her eyebrows furrowed but the traces of tears on her cheeks struck Cassian with sadness.

He cupped his soulmate's face to wipe her tears with his thumbs. "I'll be your wings, Luxiana. No matter the time, the moment, the place, if you ask me to take you flying, I'll do it. No matter if we love each other, if we hate each other. No matter if we blame each other for something or if we argue, if you ask me to take you flying, I'll do it. Even if I don't agree on where you want to go, even if it's dangerous, even if we could die. Even if I lose my wings too, I'll take you there, Luxiana."

The blonde gasped. Her eyes widened and her heart began to beat for Cassian at his words and the sincerity in his irises.

"I will be your wings forever and ever," he whispered to her. Despite himself, a tear fell from his eyes. He gritted his teeth, cursing himself for not being able to hold it back, but the sadness he saw in his soulmate's eyes hurt so much. "Forgive me," he asked, placing a kiss on her forehead.

Luxiana frowned. "Why?"

"Forgive me for not being there. Forgive me for not coming to save you. Forgive me for not being able to save your wings. Forgive me for not knowing what to do to make you feel better."

Luxiana wanted to speak, shaking her head, but Cassian put his thumb on her lips to stop her. "In any case, my heart, it's normal to break down after what your mother went through, but you weren't wrong. It wasn't your fault," he assured her, shaking her gently to emphasize his words.

Luxiana's face contorted further and her chin began to tremble as tears began to stream down her cheeks again.

“It’s not your fault,” Cassin repeated. “You were just a child with wings, locked in a cage and couldn’t fly. You couldn’t predict what was going to happen. You had every right to want to leave and be free and fly. It’s so cruel to lock up a being with wings.”

Several people had said that to Luxiana before, but it had never impacted and soothed her as much as when it was Cassian who told her. The bruised heart inside her exploded as much as she burst into tears. She threw herself at Cassian to bury her face in his chest and take him in her arms.

Cassian hugged her tightly. "I'll never let anyone hurt you again. Ever. I promise."

And he reassured her and soothed her for several minutes, stroking her back and her hair. And Luxiana calmed down to breathe deeply as she had never breathed before.

But Cassian was just waiting to collapse.

Then the Illyrian took her flying. And he did everything she asked him to do.

Luxiana was testing him to see if he was truly sincere, if he would truly be her wings until the end. She asked him to fly high into the sky, very high to reach the stars. Then she asked him to let them fall.

And as she and Cassian fell heavily towards the ground, Luxiana closed her eyes to enjoy the feeling of peace and freedom that invaded her. She opened her arms and cried out a laugh, which didn't even make Cassian smile.

He felt so bad.

He held her tight against him but the closer the ground got, the more surprised Luxiana was to see that Cassian wasn't flapping his wings to save them.

And Cassian wouldn't, not until Luxiana asked him to. He had failed to save her, he wouldn't fail to be her wings. Even if it meant they both crashed to the ground.

But at the last moment, Luxiana asked him to straighten up and he did so. And Luxiana understood, shedding tears. She understood that she had just found her wings back.

Suddenly, a shockwave hit her as a huge explosion of dark power erupted into a large ball of darkness miles away from where they were. As they looked towards it, they could see a dome of power unleashing itself and destroying everything miles away from where they were.

"What is this?" Luxiana asked as she felt a cold sweat run down her spine at the immense power she could feel that was destroying everything.

Cassian tensed a little more and gritted his teeth. "Nothing. It's nothing, don't worry about it."

He continued to fly Luxina but he knew it was not nothing.

It was something because it was Rhysand.

Rhysand had vaguely seen Cassian take his soulmate out onto the balcony and into the air. But when his brain had realized that Luxiana was gone, his body had given out.

His power was raging inside him. He couldn't stay there. He was crying and sobbing so much that he couldn't breathe. He was dying.

He teleported far away. Far away in the middle of an area he knew was dry, fertile and uninhabited for miles. He fell to his knees.

He was shaking, his heart feeling like it was really going to tear apart. He grabbed his chest, pinching his bare skin between his fingers and marking it with a red mark. He wanted to tear the skin off.

He hated himself. He was suffocating. He doubled over, putting his forehead on the ground. He cried and screamed. He wanted to hurt himself. As much hurt and pain as his soulmate had felt.

His soul mate.

He didn't deserve her. His little, adorable, tender, sunny and joyful soul mate.

That was why she talked so much, to not give herself time or opportunity to think about what had happened to her. How horrible.

He screamed through gritted teeth, tensing every muscle in his jaw and neck. He was crying so hard, he felt like he was drowning. His power was surging through him, burning his soul. He tried to focus on it to control it, but he couldn't.

He could only think of his soulmate and the wings she had to tear off to save herself. All because Rhysand had failed to save her.

He hated himself. He had been locked up in the mountain for 50 years, but she had been locked up over 100 years ago. If he hadn't spent his time frolicking and having fun, he could have looked for his soulmate. Maybe he could have saved her.

By heavens, he was having fun, living, and sleeping with other women while his soulmate was being tortured for years.

He put his hand over his mouth, his stomach was so destroyed that he wanted to throw up. He was crying so hard that his body was shaking.

He vaguely noticed the bands of his power swirling around him in a tornado of darkness.

He begged the heavens to calm down but he couldn't.

He felt so sad. The horror he had lived through for fifty years was nothing compared to what his soulmate had lived through. And she had only been a child. Just a child and he had not been able to save her.

His power expanded a little more as did the anger that emerged in his body along with his sadness.

He slammed his forehead on the ground repeatedly. How could he have let her down like that? He had failed her. His soulmate.

His horrible asshole father had saved his mother's wings, his soulmate's, but he, he hadn't even been able to. He hadn't even been able to when they hadn't cut his soulmate's wings. No, they had done much worse. They had forced her to rip them off. What kind of monster was he then compared to his father?

What kind of monster was he to his soulmate?

He didn't deserve her. He had betrayed her.

He grabbed one of his wings in his hand and began to pull with all his might. He screamed and stopped. God, it hurt so much. So much. But he should tear them off. He had to! He didn't deserve to fly when his soulmate couldn't.

He didn't deserve to have wings when he failed to save her. He didn't deserve them when he failed to change the Illyrians' mindsets about women and half-bloods.

My god, the Illyrians hated him so much that maybe they took out their hatred of him on Luxiana since she was like him. Maybe she suffered so much because of him.

Because of him.

It was all his fault. He strained his arm muscles and fingers against his wings, nearly breaking his bones. He should pull. He should rip them off. But he let go of his wings abruptly. He couldn't. He was such a coward compared to her.

She had to tear off her own wings.

He wasn't breathing anymore. They had forced her to rip off her own wings and tortured her just because she was half-fae, half-Illyrian. She had committed no crime. None, and these Illyrians dared to torture her.

These Illyrians.

Rhysand's eyes turned black as his power exploded in a tidal wave of darkness that annihilated everything for miles around into dust.

He screamed at the top of his lungs as his power exploded, propelling out of himself to destroy everything.

These Illyrians.

The Illyrians.

He hated them all.

But those who had dared to touch his soul mate, he was going to find them.

And what he would do to them would be far more terrible than the worst torture this world had ever seen. He was going to make them suffer so much that it would traumatize the world for centuries. He was going to hurt them so much. So much.

The world went black around Rhysand and in his heart. He was going to destroy everything. He was going to get revenge.

But his soulmate, he didn't deserve her. They didn't deserve her and there's nothing they can do to change that.

It was too late.

He could never look her in the face again. He didn't deserve her. He had failed her.

Cassian dropped Luxiana off on her room's balcony after she asked him to. After they had been flying for hours.

Luxiana hugged him with all her strength and Cassian hugged her twice as hard. His muscles were contracting on their own and he was shaking. His body was going to give out on him.

"Cassian," Luxiana called, lifting her head slightly from the Illyrian's chest to look him in the eyes.

Cassian forced himself to smile at her gently. "Yes, my dear?" he asked, trying not to make his voice shake as his throat felt like it was being held in barbed wire.

She didn't break the embrace to look at him with shining eyes as she rested her chin on his chest, her neck bent in two to look at his eyes.

His brown eyes were so beautiful... “I love you,” she confessed.

Cassian's eyes widened as the racing beat of his heart stopped entirely. His already short breath caught in his throat.

"I fell in love with you. I love you," she buried her face in Cassian's chest as her heart lightened. She had managed to tell one of them. After all, she had loved them for a long time and she hadn't told them because she was afraid of what they would think of her after she revealed her past to them. But Cassian hadn't left her. Cassian had become her wings. She was in love with him.

Her heart pinched as she thought of the other two. But Cassian had stayed. “I don’t expect an answer. I just wanted to tell you.” She pulled away from him and he couldn’t even hold her back.

Cassian was completely still, paralyzed.

No, no, no.

She couldn't love him. Not after he had failed to save her. Save her wings. He didn't deserve her love. He had failed to save her wings. God. He couldn't take it anymore. He was going to break. He couldn't stay here.

“Thank you for what you did. Thank you for being my wings. It felt so good,” Luxiana admitted with a smile and a blush.

Cassian managed to lean down and place a kiss on his soulmate's cheek. He barely heard her. "Go to sleep."

He took a step to the side, turning towards the emptiness of the balcony, but Luxiana grabbed his arm. Her eyebrows were furrowed in concern in a pleading, cute pout. "You're not sleeping with me?" She glanced inside her room, disappointed not to see the other two there.

"We'll join you," Cassian assured simply. "You've cried a lot, you need to rest. We'll join you," he repeated automatically before flying away and leaving his soulmate there, arms dangling.

He flew at full speed to the House of Wind, shaking more and more with each passing second. He nearly broke down the front door to run and throw himself at the mini bar. He uncorked a fresh bottle of their strongest liquor and downed it in one gulp.

He grimaced at the acrid taste of the liquid sliding down his throat. He dropped the empty bottle to the floor and drained another and another.

He needed to forget. He didn't want to think about it. No, no, no. His soulmate. Her wings. Her wings. Shit.

He ran to the roof of the house, fleeing his thoughts. He threw himself on a wooden dummy that was normally used for handling weapons. But he started hitting the wood with his fists directly.

He was hitting with all his might, with all his might. The pain in his fists and on his torn knuckles couldn't even distract him from his thoughts.

They had taken her wings. It’s the most important thing for an Illyrien. They had taken the wings of his soulmate. His soulmate.

He remembered her face when she told him she loved him. She loved him.

She loved him.

He smiled as he let his arms fall to his sides. But his smile faded. She loved him even though he had failed to protect her. Save her.

They had tortured a child, her soulmate, for centuries. She had been waiting for someone to come and save her and no one had come.

The adrenaline he could feel pounding through his veins, burning him, stopped suddenly.

And Cassian collapsed. He collapsed.

He fell to his knees, as big tears flowed from his eyes. He cried silently, placing his hands on his face.

Knowing that his soulmate had been tortured, broken. Literally. They had broken every single one of his bones for no reason. None. They had destroyed her.

She must have suffered so much. She must have been in so much pain to feel at peace as death approached.

She must have felt so bad to want to die.

He was crying with all his body. My god. His soulmate had wanted to die. My god. She had wanted to die and if that person hadn't saved her, if Feyre hadn't saved her, she would have killed herself.

He could never have met his soulmate. He could never have known her. He could never have loved her.

My God what would he have done if he hadn't known her. He couldn't have lived without her.

By the cauldron, if she hadn't torn off her wings, she might still be down there.

It was only 10 years ago. My god. 3/4 of his life, maybe even more, had been nothing but physical and psychological torture.

No, no, no. She didn't deserve this.

Cassian couldn't breathe anymore. His heart hurt so much.

When his mother had abandoned him, he had felt so bad, so disgusting, so alone, so guilty. So Luxiana must have felt all of that amplified.

She had suffered more than him for so long. Why?

For what?

For what?

She must have felt so bad, so alone, so guilty. His soulmate. She must have always been in so much pain. And no one could ever save her enough to stop her from hurting. She will always be in pain. Her soulmate. He was crying so much.

Cassian's soul felt like it was being torn apart along with his heart.

He grabbed his hair in his fists. He was in so much pain. He felt like he was going crazy.

“Help,” he called softly.

Help.

Help.

Help.