#Ye sorry this thing is not getting finished - I do not have the strength today

[a-ferryman-a-day]

Day 28 - artists frustration

[kassiekole22]

Can you do a Syzoth/Reptile x reader, about him telling the reader about things they should know about him & his reptilian form before they date each other? Thank you!!!

Are You Sure?

Picture lightly edited by me.

Description: It takes all the courage in the world to tell Syzoth how you really feel about him. But Syzoth isn't so sure that you can handle a Zaterran as a lover. So he decides to tell you everything you need to know, before taking your relationship to the next level... Warnings: Fluff, Pining, A Small Bit Of NSFW. (For brief mention of breeding.) Word Count: 1.4k A/N: I am sooooo sorry this took so long for me to finish! I've been dealing with some health issues and other personal struggles recently so I've been having a hard time getting things done quickly. But I'm getting better so hopefully that will change soon. I want any other anons to know that I still fully intend on finishing your requests and to other readers, please don't let this discourage you from sending any requests. I love hearing all of your ideas! Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this fic. 🖤 MasterList: 🖤 Kassie's Angels: @lorebite, @mornandil, @bihansthot, @katiralovely. (If you want to be added to the taglist, let me know in the comments! 🖤)

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I slumped down under a shady tree after practicing fighting for a solid two hours. Lord Liu Kang told me the monks would be harsh, but I never expected training to be just as hard as it was. So I sat — the back of my head hitting the bark of the tree as it fell back onto my shoulders — and I let out a tired sigh. My eyes began to fall shut but then the wrestling of tree branches jerked me right awake as I let out a startled gasp. I looked up to find the source of this sudden commotion only to see Syzoth — in his human form — staring down at me from a high branch with a cheeky smile stretching his lips.

"You scared me!" I laughed as I reached an arm up to swat at his feet, which hung down from the branch he sat on.

After responding with a huff of laughter, Syzoth jumped down beside me. He sat down on the ground so close to where I was that I subconsciously held my breath, now very weary of moving in his presence. But not from fear — because it was the closest I had ever been to Syzoth before. The soft touch of his skin touching mine when our elbows brushed together, being engulfed in a cloud of his natural scent, even being able to hear his breath was enough to get my heart beat racing. To say I liked the man was quite an understatement. In my eyes, he was beautiful; I just wish I knew how to tell him that.

"It's so nice out here," he breathed before letting out a relaxed sigh. "I could sit out here for hours."

"Yeah, me too." I agreed, looking in every direction but his. Of course, I wasn't subtle about it — despite trying to be — and he noticed instantly.

"Are you ok?" He asked as his tone dipped softer with more concern.

I simply nodded, "Yeah, I'm fine. Just tired."

I finally mustered up the strength to look back at him and make eye contact. But as soon as my eyes met those pale green ones, I could feel my cheeks burn with a sudden heat of desire. The expression that grew on his face was much like his tone moments ago: concerned and worried.

'Shit! He notices!'

"Are you alright, (Y/N)?" He asked while placing a hand gently on my own. The sudden contact did not help my rosy completion and I felt my skin burn even more.

I quickly pulled away and nodded my head, "Yes, yes — I'm fine." I assured him. "I just got too much sun today."

It was a good lie and I just prayed that Syzoth was as gullible as I had hoped. He did not answer me after that and for a good moment, peaceful silence had fallen over us and I was glad.

I took a deep breath to calm my nerves and finally felt myself relax again. Looking up at the sky, I noticed that not a single cloud covered it, allowing the sun to beam down upon us. The birds chirped happily and the butterflies fluttered in the air — watching them helped all of my stresses melt away and bring me to peace. It truly was a perfect day. I let my eyes flutter shut as a cool breeze blew passed us, and then I felt completely comfortable in my surroundings.

That was until Syzoth's voice broke the long-lasting silence...

"(Y/N)," His voice came out serious as he spoke. His sudden change in tone instantly caught my attention and I turned to face the man. "I have a question that I must ask—"

"Ok — what is it?"

"Do... Do you have feelings for me?" He asked hesitantly and almost... Shyly?

I froze as soon as the words came out of his mouth and I instantly felt my cheeks burn with intense embarrassment. The shock I felt was overwhelming and I had absolutely no idea how to respond. I just sat there, thinking deeply about a million things at once.

'Does he know? Am I really that obvious? There's no way! I mean, I've done so well to hide it!... Haven't I?

As humiliating as it was, I knew I couldn't keep the truth from him for any longer. So after heaving a deep sigh to gain just a little more confidence, I spoke my confession: "Yes, Syzoth — I do have feelings for you."

He stared at me with a blank and not so surprised expression for a moment. I felt as if I was under a burning spotlight while under his gaze. Finally — after a moment that felt like a lifetime — he let out a soft sigh. It didn't seem necessarily stressed or disappointed in anyway — it was just a normal huff of air.

"Are you sure? Because — as you know — I'm no ordinary individual. I'm not human like yo—"

"I don't care, Syzoth!" I cut him off as I raised my voice slightly. I didn't mean to come off aggressive in any way — I was just eager to tell him how I felt. I exhaled slowly and lowered my voice to a more calm pitch. "I like you for you; that stuff doesn't matter."

He looked at me for a moment, almost like he was reading over my words in his mind. Something told me by his expression that he did not believe me and would need further convincing. And unfortunately, I was right.

"No, (Y/N). You do not understand." He heaved a deep breath and shifted so he was facing me more before continuing, "There is still a lot about me that you do not know. Things you are not prepared for—"

"Well... Prepare me!" I basically demanded with an enthusiastic smile and he raised a brow at me for a moment. He seemed almost hesitant to let me into his world but eventually he did nod in agreement.

"Ok... For instance, our diet mainly consists of raw flesh of animals and humans. We can eat cooked foods but we don't prefer it." He paused for a moment to check my facial expression before continuing, "We shed our skin once a year. It's a very long and uncomfortable process and I will become very irritable at that time. I like warmth and do not do well in the cold — I can't handle it, in fact. I also have to keep my skin hydrated and... There's also mating season... Um..."

His eyes averted away from mine as he shifted uncomfortably on the ground while letting out a cough. I blushed at the thought of this "mating season" he mentioned, but tried my hardest to keep my composure for his and my sake.

"I may appear human sometimes, but do know that my reptilian nature still lingers within. Are you sure you want to engage in a romantic relationship with someone like myself?"

I smiled warmly at the man sitting before me and took his big hands in my own, massaging the backs of them with my thumbs to sooth him. It was obvious he was nervous and I didn't want him to be — he deserved to be comfortable with someone for once in his life and I was going to make sure that I was that person.

"Like I said before: I like you for you. And I would be more than happy to engage in a romantic relationship with you — that is, of course, if you want to engage in one with me?"

I gazed up at him through my lashes with hope blossoming in my heart for the first time that day. I felt his hands grow sweaty in my own and the look of concern on his face remained, causing a little bit of that hope to die off.

But then his worried expression melted away with a fond smile as his cheeks turned a faint tint of pink. He leaned forward and gently pressed his lips against mine — not necessarily molding them into a kiss, but just holding them there. So I decided to take charge of the situation and pressed mine into his in the way a kiss would be formed. And happily, he kissed back.

I knew that loving a Zaterran would be a challenge, but I wouldn't have it any other way. My heart longed for him and now that I had him, that's all that mattered to me. I had finally found the one for me and I knew I'd be happy as long as he was at my side — this I was sure of.

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[kunikinnie]

a/n: this one was in the drafts for a long time lol anw hope you guys like it!

birthday

Today passed quicker than you expected. Since your birthday plans were canceled due to his work, you had much more time to do other things - although of course the disappointment did not fully dissipate. 

You were typing away at your laptop, focusing on work that demanded utmost attention, and by the time you had finished the clock almost struck midnight. Was it that late? Oh well. One last look at your phone messages was all you had to do before sleeping anyway - your heart was especially expectant when you checked on his conversation - but there was nothing. Such was life, you thought, and you were about to tuck yourself in when a loud knock interrupted you. 

Curiously you strode to your door, and the moment you opened it you nearly gasped at the mess of a man standing in front of it.

“Wh-what am I looking at…?” you asked in confusion.

“Your boyfriend…?”

Tetchou was far from presentable: his cap was barely on his sweaty hair and his uniform stained with blood aside from the torn and frayed portions. It was the complete opposite from the bouquet of flowers in his two fingers that were immaculate and fresh.

“No, I mean what is that?” 

Your eyes were fixed on the large triangular metal sheet with “Happy Birthday” hastily painted on it. The marks of steel being ripped from its center were apparent, so this could only be…

“I thought flowers weren’t enough so I wanted to make a placard… but I didn’t have any materials so I just used this traffic sign that I accidentally cut off during the chase.”

The absurdity of it all made you question your sanity. So he couldn’t find an illustration board or something similar but there was paint lying around? Were you just in a fever dream? That was the most logical explanation, but the strength of the scent of his sweat when he stepped closer to you suggested otherwise. 

“Sorry… is it too much?” 

The puppy eyes that you kept falling for had landed a critical hit once again. Yes, it was too much - too much compared to what you had expected he would ever do for you for something so inane as this. Yet your heart couldn’t help but swell with delight at his efforts.

“You didn’t have to, but thank you..”

Without further delay you let him inside your warm apartment. He handed over his bouquet and the improvised placard which you placed on the table and swapped for your own present. All the while you continued to barrage him with questions and words of concern: Why was his uniform in tatters? Was he injured? Why did he push himself to come here today? Yet he answered none of those and simply sprawled beside your bed. 

“At least change first, please?”

“Too tired… ran all the way here,” he panted. The image of him running poker faced with the giant stop sign was one you never thought you’d have to imagine, but then again nothing was impossible with Tetchou.

“Besides,” he continued, eyes only half open. “I promised you I’d come today. You were so excited so… can’t… just…”

You quickly caught him before his face hit the floor. He should have come tomorrow instead. Or maybe on the weekend if he was that busy. A few more days to add to the weeks you hadn’t seen him in person was nothing compared to his immediate welfare.  

The guilt and gratitude overflowed as you pulled him up to your bed. He always took care of you whenever he could, so helping him get a good night’s sleep is the least you could do in return. And that in itself was something you were more than glad to do for him - why would you do any less for the love of your life?

You placed a soft kiss on his forehead.  “Thank you, Tetchou,” you whispered before finally retiring for the night in your spare futon.

taglist: @stygianoir, @irethepotato, @kisara-16reblogs, @thatdazaikin, @dazaee, @menshusband, @celestair, @bloobewy, @renaxnnas, @kunikida-simp

[starrdevereauxx]

The Session ( Part 2)

He walks over to her, reaching for her. She reaches out her hand, he moves it and grabs her by the neck. She instantly climaxes in his hands. He’s holding Dev his hands as she drops all over the tall grass.. he moves in close to kiss her cum covered lips.

And then…

His phone rings. Both bolted out of the trance they were just in by the sound of his iPhone going off. He still had her suspended in mid air, leaking her sweet nectar all over earth’s floor. He grabs a few drops from her drenched pussy, and moisturizes his lips and quenches his thirst, before calmly answering the phone.

Giving Dev full eye contact, he answers the phone,

“Hello honey, is everything alright?” Zeke says dauntingly.

Dev immediately tenses up.

“Honey? Wtf!?” She thinks to herself while her pussy is pulsating and dripping in his hands.

A sweet voice answers on the other end, “I’m sorry to interrupt babe, but could you pick up some food on the way home. I’m so hungry and I forget to get groceries”

“Sure baby, what would you like? I’ll get whatever you want.” Zeke smiles to adhere to her requests.

Dev begins to shrink. Zeke realizes this and pauses his call.

“My apologies, I can hang up with my wife right now. I’m so sorry. I don’t want you to feel a way.” He says OPENLY on the phone.

“You’re married!!? Omg put me the fuck down Zeke! I’m leaving right the fuck now and NEVER call me again. This is done. I can’t believe the things we were about to keep doing” Dev says, eye welling up.

It goes silent between Dev and Zeke. He gets ready to reply before he’s cut off by a small voice.

“Please, don’t stop. I’d like to see” says the sweet phone on the phone. “FaceTime me”

Zeke FaceTimes his wife without a second thought. Dev looks confused, intrigued but confused.

“Put me on a tripod, I want a full view” says his spirited partner

Zeke hands Dev the phone. Dev looks into the phone nervously.

“You’re gorgeous. Look at your freckles. If you don’t mind, I’d love to watch you finish whatever it is you were doing. I haven’t came today, and this just might do it for me.” His wife says as she removes her silk panties and pulls out a purple rose fully charged.

Dev still looking confused hands the phone to Zeke to place on the tripod. She falls to her knees in front of the phone, places her hands behind her back and bends over revealing her anal canal to Zeke.

Looking dead into the phone, Dev looks into his wife’s eyes and says “Talk me through it, please?”

At this moment you can see every single vein in Zeke’s erection. Zeke’s eyes become overcome with a joy you can tell he hasn’t felt in a long time. If I wasn’t to sure, I would say that he teared up.

Dev waits with anticipation of the sweet pain of having his dick fully engorged in her tight asshole. He kneels to meet her huge, thick, creamy, freckled ass. She fully arch’s her back, while keeping her eyes fully on his wife.

“Call me ma’am” Zeke’s wife says, as she shows Dev her wet lips as she uses her fingers to prepare for the inevitable encounter that’s unfolding.

“Yes ma’am” Dev moans loudly. Zeke pushes his continuous inches pass the threshold of her anus. He pushes so hard that Dev almost loses control of her left leg, he most definitely hit a nerve. He makes sure to fit his entire dick inside her hole before he pulls out to re-enter again.

“Don’t pull out yet Zeke, let her grip around your dick. Don’t take your eyes off me sweetheart. Both of you look at me, don’t take your eyes off me” his wife says as she’s literally leaking water from just this moment alone.

Zeke moans, tilting his head back in rapture. Dev’s asshole won’t let him go. Gripping him and literally milking him as he sits perfectly still in her cavity.

“Fuck her hard Zeke, take her ass from her. You like how he feels in you mamas?”

“Yes ma’am” Dev replies to his wife. Screaming hard as he’s ripping her in half.

Zeke starts to gain strength and motion as he strikes the captain Morgan pose on top of Dev. One foot in the middle of her back, the other on the ground as he pounds the fuck out of her.

In and out, in and out.. harder and harder, Zeke relentlessly takes her hole from her. Dev begins to smile and cry simultaneously. The pleasure and the pain have over taken her, the whole while Dev’s maintaining a full facetime conversation with Zeke’s lifetime companion.

“Clap…Clap…Clap…Clap” the sound of Dev’s pillowy asscheeks reverberating the loudest backshots you could ever hear in the middle of nowhere. Zeke’s large hands handling the tasks with all his might.

Zeke’s wife has placed a chocolate covered dildo inside her vagina, matching the rhythm of the shots he’s giving Dev. She placed the rose on her clitoris, moving in synced gyrations.

“Harder, please. Please. Oh my God please. Punish my ass, please” Dev screams out in excitement from the inside of her heart. She feels his dick throughout her body. Each pump of his dick, growing closer to ejaculation is filling her up spiritually.

“Fuck, I’m about to cum” Zeke exclaims.

“Me too” his wife moans.

“So am I! Where do you want him to cum ma’am?” Dev grunts.

“Turn her into a Twinkie baby, pour into that hole baby. Make it come out her throat” his wife says with a devilish look in her eyes, “Look at me as my husband fills your slutty ass up. Cum with us”

Everyone is moving hard and fast. Zeke is stepping into her back so hard that he’s turning Dev into a fucking landmark.

“Oooooohhhhh my gooooooddddddd” Dev cums hard as fuck into the grass. Zeke begins to yell as well as he overloads her ass with so much semen that she literally begins to cough. Zeke’s wife has wet up the camera and her bedsheets most definitely needs to be changed.

A lengthy sigh enters the atmosphere. All three of them are dripping from their brows and private areas that are now public domain.

Dev’s ass and asshole are creamed to perfection. She can’t even fathom what just took place.

“Take some cum out of your ass and put it in your mouth. Digest him” his wife says.

Dev does as she commands. Zeke almost instantly cums again just watching them interact.

“Kiss her Zeke, put your tongue down her throat, then kiss her on her pussy”

Zeke does well as he’s told and proceeds to give Dev the wettest kiss below.

“Now you don’t have to stop for dinner. It’s already sitting in your mouth. See you soon” his wife says right before she ends the FaceTime.

Zeke and Dev look at each other with almost an urge to keep going, but the end things there.

“May I tip you extra?” Zeke says with a smile.

“I’m not going to say no” Dev laughs uncomfortably.

DING! Her cashapp goes off, reading $2,000.

“Zeke, you don’t have to do this. You really don’t”

Zeke pulls her by her face saying “We locked in now, this is just the beginning”

He kisses her slowly, gripping her all over her cum drenched body, then walks away.

Being a photographer in Los Angeles, everyone is a “somebody”.

Today, it was Dev’s turn to be a star.

[thatbxolivia]

summary- daddy!vader x little!reader vader has a bad pain day and little!reader just wants to help :(

without any hesitation, he told you no. that was just his thing, you guessed.

no, you can’t be that way. you’re too little.

no, you can’t do that. you’re too little.

no, you can’t help me. you’re too little.

all of these phrases usually brought you comfort. his acknowledgement of your headspace was validating and usually made you feel more secure. today was different. today, he was almost in too much pain. so much he could barely function. he tried to hide it, but you were regressed, not stupid. anyone could see the distress he was in.

“daddy, please let me help you.” you pleaded, not wanting him hurt. you didn’t mind helping, so why did he mind so much?

“no, it’s my job to take care of you, not the other way around.” he spoke through the mask, unable to take it off. he sat in his throne, and you stood beside him. you couldn’t even sit in his lap without hurting him. he tried to hide it, but again, you weren’t stupid.

“that’s not true. it’s both of our jobs to take care of each other.” you said, kneeling on the ground and resting your head very lightly on his knee. “i can help, too… i’m not helpless, daddy. let me help you.”

“i know you’re not helpless,” he sighed. “i would never think so little of you.”

“then let me do my part.”

“i’m supposed to be the one who cares for you-“

“no, i said we take care of each other. so sometimes that means i help you when you can’t help yourself. just let me, please.” you begged, giving him puppy dog eyes.

“this conversation is over, little one.” he told you, getting up. you could tell it hurt him but he refused to make a single sound. it broke your heart as he walked by you. he turned around and held his hand out. “please, come with me.”

“i can’t stand to see you hurt.” you said, crying. you stayed on the floor, kneeling, and looking at the now empty throne. he should be sitting. resting. taking it slow. he never gives himself the same grace he extends to you and it’s always upset you. but today, this was something fierce. you were angry. “stop hiding from me! at the end of the day, you’re not just my ‘daddy’. you’re my partner and i’m here to help you, so fucking let me help you!” you yelled. he looked down and sighed, turning his hands into fists.

“he says it’s weak.” was all daddy spoke. he didn’t need to name anyone, you knew it was the emperor.

“he’s the one who’s weak!” you shouted, earning an immediate “shush” from your daddy.

“quiet! do you want the entire empire thinking you’re against us?!” he questioned.

“i’m sorry,” you whispered. “but having the strength to recognize when your body needs a rest is anything but weak. he’s wrong.” you finished. “please let me help you. you’re in the dark right now and i can bring you back into the light.”

“you are the light.” he said.

“please rest.” you said, moved by his words and hoping you were getting close to convincing him. he turned to you and sighed again, accepting defeat. you already had convinced him.

“i don’t know how.” he admitted.

“you can use your bacta tank.” you suggested.

“i hate not being needed-“

“i need you more than ever. i know you need me as much as i need you. i’m not going anywhere, like you always say.” you reassured him. “daddy, please go to the tank. i don’t like seeing you in pain, if it were me, you’d demand i rest. why don’t you get the same grace?” you asked, speaking aloud your earlier thoughts.

“i don’t know.” he admitted. you’d expected a snide remark or maybe a quip about how he was your daddy and you were just a baby. but no, the truth was, he didn’t know.

“we can talk more about it later.” you said, picking up on the fact he did not want to speak now. you picked up the tablet and typed on it, sending in service droids to help him with the bath. “right now, you need rest.” you said as you set the tablet back down.

“my love?”

“yes?”

“will… you wait with me?”

“i’d love to, daddy.” you smiled. you walked back with him as the droids followed, hovering behind you.

as you entered the room where his tank was, you were reminded of the last time you were in here. when you had been taken and daddy came to rescue you. you had been seriously injured and he’d put you in his tank, waiting by you for seven hours as you healed. you’d happily do the same now for him.

in the distance, your daddy was already getting ready. you gasped in horror as the machines ripped off the limbs and tore off his suit and you finally heard him cry out in pain.

“stop! stop!!!” you cried out, the droids responding and shutting down.

“they have to finish.” he said, legs still attached and grunting in pain.

“like that?! make them more gentle!” you suggested and he shook his head, smiling sadly at you.

“the emperor has them locked. i can’t change anything.” he said. “resume.” the droids powered back up and began roughly taking off the legs, his pained noises continuing. you grunted and kicked the floor, this was so unfair. you heard his cries stop and just heavy breathing for a few moments. you turned around as they put an oxygen mask on him, lifting him to put him in the tank. as he entered, you felt something prodding around in your mind.

him.

can you feel me?

“daddy?”

you don’t have to speak.

you nodded and sat on the floor, by where his feet would be, and sighed, pressing your head on the cool glass. the droids made their exit and you were left with the controls of the tank. you began crying, thinking unfair he always had to be in pain.

please don’t cry.

“i can’t not cry, daddy. i’m so sad.” you said, opting to speak. you sniffled and wiped at your tears, trying to toughen up, but it wasn’t working.

you’d sit here as long as he needed you to. you’d do anything for him. he gets to have his grand moments where he confesses his love for you and all the things he’d do to keep you safe and the truth was, you’d do the same and more for him. so, that’s why you felt so helpless that he was in pain, and his only option was a bacta tank, breathing through water with a mask like he was some kind of sea creature on display. it wasn’t fair.

calm your mind, little one.

“daddy, it’s hard. everything is so unfair!” you cried. you could feel his pain and sadness and it was overwhelming.

i don’t want to hide from you anymore. this is the reality. if you don’t want it, i’ll understand.

“i want it if it means i keep you, daddy.” you whined. “i’ll take whatever comes with you.” you said.

you are the only light in my life.

the words rang in your head and you knew the importance of them, especially coming from him.

“as you are in mine.” you whispered, calming down. “i’ll stay with you forever.”

[softpascalito]

Double Shift - 2003!Joel Miller x Reader

Summary: Joel is in over his head with the amount of shifts he's picking up at the construction site and Christmas coming right up. You help out.

Relationships: 2003!Joel Miller x Reader WC: 1800 Tags/Warnings: Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Minor Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Christmas, Crying, Parent Joel (The Last of Us), Pre-Cordyceps Outbreak Joel (The Last of Us), Pre-Cordyceps Outbreak (The Last of Us), Joel Needs a Hug (The Last of Us), Established Relationship, Financial Issues, This is pretty sad yall im sorry Read on AO3 full advent calendar (updated daily)

notes: hello loves! sorry this is kinda late, my week is so incredibly stressful and im super behind on writing but hey we're only 5 hours late! i hope you still enjoy this and please READ THE TAGS. this one is a lil sad!

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

Joel doesn't even remember the last full day he has taken off. It seems to him that he knows the house they’re building better than the one waiting for him at the end of his shift. And he hates it.

He spends every possible second on the construction site, every other possible second with Sarah, helping her with math homework in the evenings, taking her out on the weekends when he can.

And every second at night, when it's too late to be out working and when Sarah is asleep, he spends worrying about money.

It's been a rough year, both financially and emotionally. But he doesn't have time to dwell on it, to complain about it, hell, he doesn't even have time to grieve. He has a daughter at home and that's the one thing he knows, the one thing that keeps him going. It's always her.

That's his thought anyway when you meet during the summer and it's his reasoning for keeping you away for a while. But as the leaves turn orange and the air crisp, he brings you home more. Sarah and you get along great, the girl instantly taking a liking to the way you do things differently than her father or her uncle.

Joel finds himself thankful to have someone to watch Sarah on weekends, someone to also spare him awkward conversations about tampons and boys (or girls) - though he always insists Sarah is still too young for the latter.

By the time Christmas rolls around, the three of you have settled into a routine, with you watching Sarah twice during afternoons, often staying for dinner on Joel's demand. It’s almost like a little family night.

Today, a text lets you know there'll be no such luck.

Have to finish the flooring tonight, will take a few more hours. Tell Sarah she can order some food. See you next week, baby.

It's past ten when the truck finally pulls up in the driveway, Joel letting out a heavy sigh as he sits in silence for a moment. It takes him every ounce of strength not to cry. He’s tired and it’s Christmas week and he still hasn’t ticked off more than one thing off Sarah's Christmas list. He knows this will be a sad one, the few presents he has waiting in the linen closet, wrapped in the daily paper. The thought has been looming over him for weeks. He sees lights on in the living room. It looks like something dim, definitely not the big light - maybe the TV.

When he opens the door to the kitchen and hears music drifting from the living room, he’s certain about what he’ll find. Sarah asleep, curled up on the couch with the TV on and some leftover food in front of her.

Last week, he found her having a can of ravioli for dinner- something they usually only keep stocked for their camping trips. It was the moment he realized he may not have been as sneaky about keeping their financial struggles to himself as he would have hoped.

It's the only time he curses when thinking about how smart his daughter is.

Joel damn near passes out when he does enter the living room. Because yes, Sarah is there, asleep on the couch. But she’s curled up against you, your hand gently stroking her back. And yes, the TV is on. But the source of light he’s seen from outside is a Christmas tree in the corner, decorated with colorful lights and bulbs and a golden star on top.

Your head turns as you feel his presence in the doorway and a small smile spreads over your face. Your voice is barely a whisper, trying not to wake the girl beside you, “Surprise.”

It’s the second time Joel wants to fucking cry tonight. He makes his way over to you, pressing a gentle kiss to your lips before turning towards Sarah, “I'll take her to bed.”

You give a small nod, shifting slightly to allow him to pick his daughter up. You watch him as he carries her up the stairs, moving carefully to make sure not to bump her head.

It barely takes a minute before you hear him closing Sarah's bedroom door and coming back downstairs. He stops in the middle of the room. And he looks so lost.

“You did- uhm- you did this?” He asks, a little choked up and you yawn a little as you let your eyes wander over to the tree, “I know I should've asked but Sarah told me last week that she really wanted a tree and I thought...” you drift off, carefully watching his reaction.

“What, so you made my daughter conspire against me?” It comes out a lot rougher than he intends, if your face is anything to go by.

“Are you mad?”

Something about the way you ask so quietly, so softly, draws a sigh from Joel's throat. God, he’s an asshole.

Whatever words he prepared a moment ago are washed away and he shakes his head, “No. No, I'm sorry, it's just been a long day.”

“It hasn't just been one long day,” you say gently as you climb off the couch to stand in front of him, wrapping your arms around his slightly stained shirt. He smells like wood and paint and sweat. The mix of those scents smells like home.

“Look, I’m not- I’m not trying to overstep my boundaries. I just want her to have a nice Christmas, that's all.”

“I do too,” Joel mutters, bowing his head a little, his eyes wandering over to the tree in the corner. He blinks a few times but it doesn’t help. The tears still come.

“I don't want to fail her.”

The lights blur in his vision, the colors dancing around in long stripes as the tears gather in his eyes. It looks so beautiful. It would look so beautiful. If his heart could only stop hurting, if his chest would stop being so tight.

And then you're there. Making yourself a little taller than you are, one hand pressed to his back, the other pulling his head into your shoulder.

“You're okay. Come on, you're okay.”

You whisper the words into his ear. It hurts to see him like this, it always does. He rarely shows emotion, no matter if it's about Sarah or you or the grief.

The only time you've seen him cry is the night the hospital called. He hadn't cried on the phone, had only nodded along, taken some notes, asked a few questions. Then, he had gone to Sarah's room. Her sobs alone had made you cry, despite the fact that you weren't even a part of this family. Not yet, at least.

Joel had held the small frame of his daughter, letting her tire herself out with crying, shushed her whenever the sobs got too loud, stroked her hair for what must've been hours.

He had insisted that you could go home for the night. You had insisted on staying.

His tears hadn’t come until you were both in bed, when his body began to shake and you felt him beginning to cry silently beside you, forcing himself to make no noise in case Sarah could hear.

You had let him sob into your chest, tucked him so close to you it almost felt impossible to have your bodies so flush together. It was the only time you saw him cry.

Until now.

You pull him onto the couch with you, still holding him close. When he has calmed down enough for you to lean over, you reach for a small package hidden behind the couch, “I was gonna make this a surprise for both of you. But maybe- we should make it a surprise for her rather than that.”

Joel frowns a tiny bit, reaching out to lift the lid of the small box- and being met with three tickets to a Halican Drops concert. He knows what they are worth. He’s been starting at the price on the ticket office poster every time he passes it.

“You shouldn't-”

“But I will. In fact, I already did,” you smile gently, putting the box back into its hiding place. “I got her some other stuff too. And I will get you some proper Christmas paper to wrap everything in, by the way. But this we could- it'll be from both of us.”

When he continues to stare at you, you go on, “I got a small Christmas bonus. You know I don't have anyone else to spend it on. And I want her to have this. And you. I want you to have this, Joel.”

“I want to have this,” he whispers back. You're both not really talking about the concert anymore. It doesn't matter. You’ve always been good at speaking this way, both reading between the lines, knowing what the other one means. Noone has understood you that way until him.

“I don't know how I got so lucky,” he mumbles, sighing a little as he looks around the living room once more. There’s the tree and some garlands, a few dried orange slices dangling in front of the window, “And the decorations are-?”

“Well, the bulbs are yours. I just got some new lights. Pretty sure the old ones were a bigger fire hazard than your cooking.” It draws a small chuckle from his throat. “Sarah had the idea with the oranges. I think they turned out real pretty,” you explain as you reach to touch one of them.

“Yeah, they did.”

You’re halfway through whatever Christmas movie is on during the night when Joel looks over at the tree again, pondering something for a split second before he speaks.

“I'll get you a key for Christmas.”

You frown a little, “I have a key. You know that. I wouldn't need it if Sarah didn't forget hers every day but-”

“No,” Joel interrupts, shaking his head a little.

“I meant, I'll get you one if you want. For you. To use it. So you can-” He swallows a bit, turning his head to find your face next to him. Soft, brown eyes, so close that you can see the patterns of his iris. There’s a speck of gray in the brown.

“So you can come here. After work.”

It takes you a second to follow his train of thought. And then you realize what he's saying.

“Are you asking me to move in with you? Because if so, you're doing an absolutely horrible job at it.”

“But will you?”

You smile a little at how nervous he suddenly seems, his hand sliding over your thigh and squeezing slightly.

“Yeah. Yeah, I will,” you mumble, leaning in to kiss him, sighing against his soft lips when they part for you.

“Merry Christmas, Joel.”

“Merry Christmas, darlin’.”

[themultifandomgal]

From 2010- Another Tour

Part 40

2014

23rd May

Tour started last month and while everything has gone well, mine and Liams relationship has started to crack again. I text him, but he won’t reply, or I’ll ring him and it will go to voice mail then he will reply days later with ‘sorry I was busy’

I’m sat in my dressing room texting Emma when I suddenly get a text off Liam.

The only thing I can think off is to go to the boys dressing room. Leaving my phone in mine, I walk to the door opposite mine and without knocking I enter

“I know your in your boxers and frankly I don’t give a shit. I just.. I don’t want to be in there on my own” my voice cracks which makes everyone look at me seriously. Harry pulls up his jogging trousers before cautiously walking towards me

“What’s wrong? What happened?” Louis asks

“Liam” the flood gates open and I can’t speak. Harry immediately wraps me up in his arms and strokes my hair

“Shhh your ok” he whispers

“What did I do?” I shake my head

“Not you. Liam broke up with me”

“He what!” Niall shouts “he rang you just before a show and broke up with you?”

“He text me” I sniffle into Harry’s shoulder

“What a dick” Niall scoff

“Ok, here’s what we will do. Well tell everyone you have food poisoning that way you don’t have to do the next….”

“No I’m doing the show tonight” I cut Louis off

“YN you can’t be serious” Harry says pulling away and looking at me with wide eyes

“Liam and I we’re together for 9 months. Yes it’s a long time but it’s not even a year. It’s not like we were married or anything”

“We’re here for you” Liam says and the rest of the boys all join in on a group hug

“I know thank you”

27th May- News Article

Liam Hemsworth Announces Break Up With YN YLN

27.05.2014

After 9 months of dating the couple have called it quits. The last time we saw Hemsworth and YLN together was when they appeared at the BRIT Awards at the beginning of the year. YN posted a Instagram photo celebrating the occasion

A close source to the couple state that the couple split up due to the long distance. While YN is on tour with her band One Direction, which started on the 25th April.

We are deviated to hear this news but we wish both YN and Liam the best and luck for the future.

* Second photo edit is by the Instagram account harianadimples

28th May

2 years ago yesterday I got the most worst phone all I had ever received. 2 years ago Alex grew his wings and became an angel. I’m still emotional today, constantly looking down at my A tattoo whenever I feel like I need strength.

The music to ‘Little Things’ starts and I look up to see the arena full of lights from phone

“Your hand fits in mine like it’s made just for me” Zayn starts off singing and a tear escapes from my eyes. Louis grabs my hand and sways with me along the music

“I won’t let these little things slip out of my mouth, but if I do, it’s you, oh it’s you, they add up to. I’m in love with you and all these little things” I attempt to sing in tune but I know my voice is cracking

After the song Harry turns to me and asks

“You ok?”

“I will be” I give Harry a small smile.

13th July

We had just finished up our last day of tour for a little bit while we have a small break to go home and visit family.

I’m walking to my dressing room when Erin calls me over to her

“Hey YN there’s someone round backstage waiting for you”

“Who?”

“Liam as in your ex liam”

“What’s he doing here?” I ask frowning and following Charlotte to the backstage door

“Don’t know but he is holding tulips”

“What the…” I’m not able to say anything else as we approach the door

“If you need me to get the boys to get you away from him just text”

“Thanks Char” I give he a little hug before opening the door. There’s so many fans about

“Before you say anything I’m sorry. I love you YN and since I sent that text I’ve been kicking myself. I shouldn’t have sent it you I’m so sorry. Will you be mine again?”

“Why don’t you come in?” I nod towards the stadium so we’re out of the public view

“I want everyone here to see how much I love you YN so what do you say? Will you take me back” I feel trapped. Like if I say no I’ll be the bad guy, if I say I need time I’ll still be the bad guy. So many girls are screaming for me to say yes, so I do. Immediately Liam wraps me up in his arms and kisses my lips.

We can figure this out can’t we?

[echo-goes-mmm]

Ambrose and Elliot #13

Masterpost

Previous

Next

Warnings: implied past torture

Ambrose didn’t want to get up. His bed was too warm and cozy and the world outside was too cold and sad. And he wasn’t sure how to tackle last night’s… situation. He dealt with a lot of… uncomfortable problems before, but handling a murder was far simpler than Elliot’s complicated and frankly horrific history. 

 Ambrose needed to get ahead of it. Sooner rather than later. 

He slipped out from underneath the covers, and pulled on some warmer clothes. The weather had cooled off more than expected. 

Elliot was by his door with a mug of chamomile tea. Just how Ambrose liked it. And the bathrobe Elliot had borrowed hung on the coat rack. Definitely sooner than later.

Ambrose took the mug from Elliot. 

“Thank you, love. Have you eaten breakfast?” asked Ambrose. He dug through his dresser, looking for some more clothes Elliot could borrow. 

“Yes, sir. Bread with butter and jam.”

“Good job,” He handed Elliot the change of clothes. “How about you wear these? Katie should have something for you later today, but you should get something clean right now.”

“Yes, sir.” Elliot began to pull off his shirt.

“No, I mean… How about you change and I’ll go get something to eat. I’ll meet you downstairs, alright?” Elliot paused.

“Um. Okay.”

Off to a good start. Or at least, a better start. How did Elliot know how Ambrose took his tea? Hmm. He needed to be more observant. It wasn’t a particularly harmful practice, but it was the principle of the thing. 

One day at a time, he told himself. You can’t take care of everything at once.

Bread with butter and jam did sound pretty good.

Elliot came downstairs as Ambrose was finishing up.

“Good idea on breakfast. And thank you for the tea, it was kind of you to make it for me. You don’t have to do that if you don’t want to.” Elliot flushed a little, and the twitch of his mouth told Ambrose that was the right move. 

“I’m sorry for yelling at you last night. I shouldn’t have.” He took a long sip of the tea, focusing on the way it warmed him, the scent, the taste. He thought over what to say next.

“Yesterday, when I said we could relax, I meant we didn’t have any work to do. That we could spend time however we wanted. I didn’t mean to imply anything.”

Elliot looked down at the table, as if being chastised. That wasn’t ideal, but right now Ambrose needed to tackle the big problems.

“I’m sorry, sir. I’ll do better. Is… is there another way I can be helpful to you?” 

Redirecting Elliot’s nervous energy couldn’t hurt. Maybe having something to do could prevent another… incident. Like a distraction.

“Well… I suppose there are a few chores that would go faster with some help. If you don't mind, of course.”

Elliot’s eyes lit up. 

As they worked through the day, Ambrose noticed that Elliot seemed more confident in his movements. Cheerful, even. And his strength was returning. He could carry more wood to the shed, he walked without a sway or stumble, and he only needed a break once more than Ambrose. Good.

Elliot was practically delighted to dust the windows (which Ambrose hadn’t gotten to yesterday), and jumped at the chance to help prepare that night's dinner. Why? What was so special about being ordered around like a-

Oh.

Elliot had been someone’s slave. He’d probably been told exactly what to do at all times. Ambrose wasn’t distracting him with tasks at all. Elliot wasn't just compelled to obey, wasn't just nervous without directions, he had a conditioned need to be useful, and Ambrose had told him how.

Last night was a direct result of Ambrose unintentionally letting him stew in uncertainty for the past week. He was taking initiative, because Ambrose didn’t. He’d latched on to an otherwise innocuous comment because it gave him an in. A purpose. 

Fuck. 

He couldn’t just tell Elliot “everything you’ve been taught is wrong and your purpose in life is to be happy”, as if that would magically solve his problems. 

But Elliot was happy, right now, anyway. Ambrose wasn’t going to take that from him. 

It’s not like Elliot had any hobbies. What was Ambrose supposed to tell him? ‘Sit alone in your room and do nothing?’

After all, Ambrose built Hearthwood just to have something to do. He liked working; he didn’t need the money. People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. Sure, Elliot’s enthusiasm came from fear, but maybe in the long term, Ambrose could help him mold it into a more positive thing. 

Baby steps.

___________________

Master Ambrose had given him chores. The sheer relief soothed his mind like a balm. He could sink back into thoughtlessness and Ambrose would care about him like his old master never had. 

And this new rule- ‘no sex’- lifted a weight in his chest Elliot didn’t know he had. 

Elliot cleaned the windows until they sparkled. He helped carry more wood to the shed, and Ambrose was so pleased with him. 

It was so simple. The world was too complicated for a thing like Elliot, and now he didn’t have to deal with it. Just do as Ambrose says. And Ambrose didn’t need complicated seduction or entertainment. He just needed some chores done. Crushing dried spices for Ambrose was infinitely better than getting the whip for his Master’s amusement.

There was a tiny part of him that was still waiting for the other shoe to drop. Ambrose still hadn’t punished him. Maybe it was because Elliot hadn’t technically broken any rules yet. 

What would happen if he did? What kind of Master was Ambrose? Elliot was on a very long leash, but maybe that leniency meant a severe punishment in return. After all, breaking a rule that was so generous would be a terrible offense. He could imagine how it would go: I’ve been so good to you, and this is how you repay me? Ambrose would take the price of his kindness out of Elliot’s hide, and the leash he was on would grow shorter.

But it was a small part of him, and it was ignorable. 

Katie had dropped off most of his new clothes, and Jennifer and her siblings and delivered the furniture. His room looked really nice now, and Katie had even given him a new green and blue blanket as a present. It was so warm, and he loved it.

Ambrose had been smiling at him all day. After months of no guiding light, he was the sun. 

Elliot hadn’t believed him when Master said everything would be okay, but he did now. 

As long as he didn’t mess it up.

taglist: @cupcakes-and-pain @secretwhumplair @paintedpigeon1 @whump-blog @whump-em @thingsthatgo-whump-inthenight @starfields08000

[hamikau]

[BSTS] S2Ch1- Part 1

Common 1

Qu: Hey Saki. Did you just get here?

やあ、Saki. いま来たところかい?

Qu: Today is Team K's rehearsal. Are you going to watch it?

今日はチームKのリハだよ。 見ていくのかい?

Kasumi: Qu, there's been a change in plans and rehearsals will be with Team C.

クー、予定が変わって、 リハはチームCになったッスよ。

Kazami Saki: Wow!

わあっ!

Kasumi: Ah, sorry, Saki-san. I scared you.

あ~、すんません、Sakiさん。 驚かせちゃったッスね。

Kazami Saki: Sorry about that, I scream so loudly.

こっちこそすみません、 大きな声を出しちゃって。

Qu: Honestly, Kasumi, you really are elusive. It's a bit bad for my heart.

まったく、カスミ、キミは本当に神出鬼没だね。 ちょっと心臓に悪いよ。

Kasumi: I'm sorry.

申し訳ないッス。

Qu: So, what does it mean that it's become a rehearsal for...Team C?

それで、うちの･･････チームCの リハになったって、どういうことかな。

Qu: Since the upcoming performance is with Team K, I'm sure they decided that rehearsals would take priority.

今度の公演はチームKだから、 リハはあっち優先って話だっただろう。

Kasumi: Well, things have changed. Anyway, let's go to the lesson room.

それが、事情が変わったッスよ。 とにかくレッスン場に行きましょう。

Mokuren: You haven't changed yet? Hurry up. You'll lose time for your lesson.

まだ着替えてなかったのか、早くしろ。 レッスンの時間が減るだろ。

Qu: Hold on a second, Mokuren. What on earth is that all about?

ちょっと待ってよ、モクレン。 いったいどういうことだい。

Kasumi: This performance was Team C's official debut performance.

今回の公演、 チームCの正���なお披露目公演になったんスよ。

Kasumi: Apparently there was quite a fight, but in the end, Kei managed to overpower the owner.

相当バトったらしいッスけどね、 最後はケイがオーナーをねじ伏せたそうッス。

Mokuren: Owner orders be damned. Kai did a great job.

オーナー命令なんてくそくらえだ。 ケイはいい働きをしたな。

Mokuren: Princess, you're going to watch the rehearsal.

姫、君、リハを見ていくよね。

Kazami Saki: Yes, I'll take a look!

はい、見学していきます!

Qu: Are you going to start rehearsal before everyone is here? You're impatient, Mokuren.

そろってないのにリハを始めるのか。 せっかちだな、モクレン。

Mokuren: What's the point if we don't dance? We have a lesson room and three people. We'll do it.

私たちが踊らなくてなんの価値がある? レッスン場があり、3人もいる。やるだろ。

Kasumi: Hari left a message saying he would come after finishing some errands at home.

玻璃は、家の用事済ませてからくるって、 メッセ入ってたッス。

Qu: Hmm. Hari's family home seems to be a big one, so there must be a lot going on.

ふーん。玻璃の実家、 大きな家らしいし、いろいろあるんだろうね。

Mokuren: It doesn't matter, I don't care.

関係ない、どうでもいい。

Qu: I guess that's true for you too. キミはそうだろうねぇ。

Kasumi: Saki, please take a chair. I think you fell down a while ago. Sakiさん、椅子をどうぞッス。 ちょっと前に倒れたそうッスね。

Qu: Take care, Saki. Have some mineral water if you like. 無理しないでね、Saki。 よかったらミネラルウォーターをどうぞ。

Mokuren: Want to exercise together? Qu will join you. 一緒に体動かす? クーがつきあってくれるよ。

Qu: So, Mokuren だからさ、モクレン、

Mokuren: Because you can't have the same menu as me. だって私と同じメニューは無理だろ。

Qu: That's true, but it's not like that. そりゃそうだけど、そうじゃなくて。

Mokuren: If you have physical strength, you are less likely to collapse. Our bodies never betray us. 体力があれば倒れる確率は下がる。 肉体は私たちを裏切らない。

Qu: This dancing idiot.

このダンスバカ。

Mokuren: Thank you.

サンキュー。

Kasumi: Hahaha. Our top and number two get along well.

あはは。うちのトップとナンバー2は 仲がいいッスね〜。

Kasumi: Oops, a message from Unei. I'm off for a bit.

おっと、運営くんからメッセ。 ちょっと自分、行ってきます。

Qu: This is from Team C's message group? It's something to confirm with the top management. Why don't you let Mokuren go?

チームCのメッセグループのこれ? トップへの確認事項だ、モクレンに行かせたら?

Kasumi: I can't ask Mokuren to do chores. I can do that myself.

モクレンに雑務をさせられないッスよ。 そういうのは、自分で十分ッス。

Qu: Hmm?

ふーん?

Mokuren: That's a good idea. I'm counting on you, Kasumi.

いい心がけだ。 カスミ、頼んだ。

Kasumi: Please leave everything to me. I'm off now.

なんでもお任せくださいッス。 行ってくるッス~。

Qu: Is Kasumi really like that?

カスミってあんなだっけ?

Mokuren: It's been like that for a while now. Anyway, hurry up and get changed.

あんなだろ、前から。 そんなことより、早く着替えてきなよ。

Qu: Yes, yes, you're really impatient.

はいはい、ほんと、せっかちなんだから。

Common 1 extra

Kazami Saki: I have to go home soon...

そろそろ帰らないと･･････

Kasumi: Are you going home?

お帰りッスか?

Kazami Saki: Wow!?

わあっ!?

Kasumi: Ah, sorry. Did I surprise you again?

あ、すいませんッス。 また驚かせちゃいましたか?

Kasumi: How are you? I'll take you to the station if you want.

具合、どうッスか。 なんなら駅まで送るッスよ。

Kazami Saki: No, Kasumi-san, you're practicing, aren't you? I'm sorry...

いえ、カスミさんは練習中ですよね。 申し訳ないので･･････

Kasumi: Today's team practice has been forced to end. Mokuren's training has caused the new recruits to improve.

今日のチーム練習は強制終了ッス。 モクレンのシゴキで新人が伸びちゃって。

Kazami Saki: Huh...?!

ええっ…!?

Kasumi: It's Team C's debut performance, after all. Our top performers have a different kind of spirit.

チームCのお披露目公演ッスからね〜。 ウチのトップの気迫が違うッス。

Kasumi: Now that I'm finally in the starting lineup, I have to do my best as a mob character.

自分もとうとうスタメンですから、 モブなりに尽力しないと。

Kasumi: I liked the backstage mob characters. Well, being flexible is one of the things they're good at.

裏方モブ、お気に入りだったんですけどね。 ま、臨機応変もモブならではってやつッスよ。

Side A1

Sinju: Qu, I’ll treat you. What do you wanna drink?

クー、おれ、おごるよ、 何飲む?

Qu: Wait, you will, Sinju? It’s not me treating you?

え、真珠が? ワタシがおごるんじゃなくて?

Sinju: Hey, that’s harsh! I’ve never bummed off you, have I?!

うわっ、ひどっ! おれ、たかったことないよね?

Qu: You haven’t, but I don’t recall ever seeing you treat someone, so I was just surprised.

たかられたことはないけど、真珠が おごってるのを見た記憶もないから、つい。

Menou: It’s a congratulations for Team C’s launch.

チームC発足のお祝いだよ。

Menou: Here. Congrats, Qu.

はい、おめでとう、クー。

Sinju: You beat me to it! You’re awful, Menou. I said I was gonna be the one to do it.

先越された~。ひどいよ、メノウ。 言い出したのおれなのに。

Menou: Then you can just treat me, Sinju.

じゃあ、真珠は 僕におごってくれればいいよ。

Sinju: That settles nothing!

それ、なんの解決にもなってない。

Qu: Hahaha. Thank you, Sinju, Menou.

ありがとう、真珠、メノウ。

Qu: Sorry for leaving Team P so suddenly.

急にチームPを出ることになって すまなかったね。

Sinju: I’m lonely with you transferring, but Team C’s really cool, so I understand.

そりゃクーが異動したのは淋しいけど、 でも、チームC、かっこいいから納得。

Menou: Even the program is a bit different. It’s deeper in meaning than the other teams.

演目もちょっと変わってるよね、 他のチームより意味深。

Sinju: Wait, really? I didn’t know anything other than the fact that they’re cool.

え、そうなの? おれ、かっこいいってしかわかんなかった。

Qu: If we can get you to think that, then I’m happy. “Cool” is the best compliment.

そう思ってもらえるのが嬉しいよ。 かっこいいって、最高の褒め言葉。

Menou: You were cool from the start, ever since you conformed to Team P.

クーは最初からかっこよかったよ。 Pに合わせてくれてた時からね。

Menou: But you don’t have to do that anymore.

でも、もう合わせなくていい。

Qu: You got me there. I like P’s vibe and all, but did it not suit me?

まいったな、Pの雰囲気も好きなのに。 似合ってなかったかい?

Sinju: It did. But C is very like you, Qu.

似合ってたよ。 でも、Cは、クーらしい。

Menou: Yeah, both are good. I think both are fine.

うん、どっちもいい。 僕は、どっちでもいいと思うよ。

Qu: This is a restaurant where we can satisfy our desires. You were the one who said that, weren’t you, Menou.

ここは欲望を満足させる店。 そう言ったのはキミだったね、メノウ。

Menou: Yeah. So, you go grant your own desires, too.

そう。だから、君も自分の欲望をかなえて。

Qu: My desires, huh?

ワタシの欲望ねぇ。

Sinju: We’re just doing what we want to do, right? Team P won’t lose.

今やりたいことをやるだけだよね、おれたち。 チームPも負けないから。

Menou: But that's not what we were saying. I guess that's always the case when it comes to Sinju, though.

そういう話じゃなかったんだけどねぇ。 真珠にかかると、いつもこんなだ。

Qu: But that’s just how he is. ……I’ll do things the way I am, too.

でも真珠らしい。 ･･････ワタシも、ワタシらしくやるよ。

Side B1

Kokuyou: Tch, it's empty.

チッ、空かよ。

Takami: If you want one of mine, I'll give it to you.

俺のでよかったら1本譲るけど。

Kokuyou: Yours is too tight.

お前のはきつすぎるんだよ。

Kasumi: Kokuyou~, here you go, as allways.

黒曜〜、ほい、いつものやつッス。

Kokuyou: Thanks, Kasumi. Your timing is great as always.

サンキュー、カスミ。 相変わらずタイミングいいな。

Kasumi: I've been a low-level employee for a long time, so I can handle this much.

下っ端歴長いッスからね、このくらいは。

Takami: You didn't just come to give some cigarettes, Kasumi?

タバコを渡しに来ただけじゃないでしょ? カスミ。

Kasumi: Hahaha, you see.

あはは~、お見通しッスか。

Kasumi: Sorry, Kokuyou.

黒曜、すみませんでした。

Kokuyou: What?

なにが。

Kasumi: I was transferred to C without anyone's permission. I didn't talk to you about it before.

勝手にCに異動したことッス。 その前に、話をしなかったんで。

Kokuyou: That's fine, do as you like. If you hadn't joined, we wouldn't have been able to get C.

別にいい、好きにしろよ。 お前が入んなきゃ、Cはできなかった。

Kokuyou: It's the same as when Menou was transferred from W to P. This time, Taiga has also joined.

メノウがWからPに異動したのと同じだ。 こっちは、大牙も入ったしな。

Kasumi: Having you say that made me feel a little better.

そう言ってもらえると、 ちょっと気が楽になったッス。

Kasumi: Oh yeah, number 2 is Takami. I thought it was Akira.

そういや、ナンバー2は鷹見なんスね。 晶かと思ってたッス。

Kokuyou: Our number two is better suited as a performer.

うちのナンバー2は パフォーマーのほうが合ってるしな。

Kokuyou: Team C, you're more focused on performance. You should do your best to live among the Starless.

チームC、パフォーマンス重視だろ。 うまくスターレスの中で住み分けろよ。

Kokuyou: If they stand up to me, I'll crush them.

歯向かってくるなら、叩き潰す。

Kasumi: Hahaha, scary, scary. I understand.

あはは、こわ、こわ。りょうかいッス。

Takami: Is this the end of reconciliation? Good thing there were no hard feelings.

これで和解完了かな。 よかったよ、遺恨を残さずに済んで。

Takami: Kasumi, do you think you'd get along well with Kei?

カスミ、君、ケイとうまくやれそう?

Kasumi: The good thing about a mob guy like me is that I can get along with anyone.

自分みたいなモブは、 誰とでもうまくやれるのが取り柄ッスよ。

Side B1 extra

Kokuyou: Is everything ready? Let's start practicing.

そろってるか。練習始めんぞ。

Shin: Akira and Taiga aren't still there.

晶と大牙がまだだ。

Kokuyou: Tsk. Where are those guys [...]? I guess I'll just have to take a quick look first.

チッ。アイツらどこで油売ってやがる。 仕方ねぇ、先に軽くさらうか。

Shin: ...Kokuyo, has the pheasant dove come to tell you it's time to go?

.…黒曜、雉鳩がいとまを告げに来たか。

Kokuyou: Ha?

は?

Takami: Ah, Kasumi just came to say hello.

ああ、カスミならさっき、 挨拶にきたよ。

Kokuyo: You...how did you know?

お前･･････なんでわかった?

Shin: When I passed by him earlier, the small box was almost empty.

先ほどすれ違ったときには 小箱は涸れる寸前だった。

Shin: The one you just put down is full, but it's hard to imagine it was arranged in the blink of an eye.

お前がいま置いたそれは充ちている。 だが、瞬きの間に都合したとは考えにくい。

Takami: Your cigarettes are almost new, but I can't go buy some in this short time.

君の煙草が新品に近いけど、 この短時間では買いに行けない。

Takami: If he received it from someone, it could be the person who often ordered cigarettes from him in the past...

誰かからもらったのなら、考えられるのは 今までもよく煙草を手配していた彼･･････

Takami: Kasumi brought it along as a greeting... That's what you assumed, Shin?

カスミが挨拶ついでに持ってきた、と。 ･･････そう推測したんですよね、シン?

Kokuyou: What is that? Are you a detective? You really notice the little things.

なんだそれ、探偵かよ。 こまけぇことによく気がつくな。

Shin: mh

Common 2

Kazami Saki: (Hmm... what's with that dizziness... I can't stand up...)

(ん･･････なに、今のめまい･･････ 立ってられない･･････)

Ran: Oops, hey, are you okay? Come on, don't sit there.

おっと、ねぇちゃん、大丈夫か? ほら、そこ座んなよ。

Kazami Saki: Sorry... that was helpful.

すみません･･････助かりました。

Ran: Feeling dizzy? ? Don't push yourself too hard. You collapsed the other day, so you need to take good care of yourself.

立ちくらみ? 無理したらダメダメ。 こないだ倒れたんやろ、大事にしないと。

Kazami Saki: thank you.

ありがとうございます。

Ran: Hey, what's it like to fall? I'm strong, so I've never fallen.

なぁなぁ、倒れるってどんな感じ? オレ、丈夫やから倒れたことなくて。

Kazami Saki: No matter what it feels like, well, I guess it is...

どんな感じって言われても、 そうですねぇ…

Kazami Saki: (Hmm... my head...)

(んん･･････頭が･･････)

Kei: Ran, get away. Don't bother her.

藍、離れろ。 彼女をわずらわせるな。

Kei: Are you okay, Saki? Has the dizziness subsided?

大丈夫か、Saki, めまいはおさまっているか?

Kazami Saki: Ah -- yes, sort of.

あ――はい、いちおう。

Kei: The office would be better than here. Excuse me.

ここよりは事務室のほうがよかろう。 ――――失礼する。

Kazami Saki: Wahhh!? Hey, Kei-san, this, that's...!

わああ!? ちょっと、ケイさん、 これ、その････..!

Ran: Wow, you're carrying her like a princess. Kei is so cool!

わあ、お姫様だっこじゃん、 さっすがケイ! かっこいい!

Kazami Saki: It's okay, I'm fine now! Please let me off...!

大丈夫です、もう大丈夫ですから! 降ろしてください･･････!

Kasumi: Hahaha, Kei carrying her like a princess was so impressive.

あはは、ケイの姫抱っこ、 迫力��るッスね〜。

Qu: Why don't you put her down? Kei. She's confused.

降ろしてあげたら? ケイ。 混乱してるよ、彼女。

Kei: Is that so?

そうか?

Kazami Saki: yes!

はい!

Kei: I see.

そうか。

Kazami Saki: (I was surprised... my dizziness and headache disappeared.)

(びっくりした･･････めまいも頭痛も どっかいっちゃった)

Kasumi: Unei was looking for both of you.

2人とも、運営くんが探してたッスよ。

Kasumi: The owner called you, but neither Ran nor Kei were there.

オーナーに呼ばれてるのに、 藍もケイもいないって。

Ran: So that's why Kei came to call me? Come on, you should have told me.

それでケイはオレを呼びに来たわけ? も~、言ってくれないと〜。

Kei: There are more important things than Haseyama.

羽瀬山より大事なことがあるからな。

Qu: It's fine here. Go ahead. Right, Saki?

こっちは大丈夫だから。行ってきなよ。 ね、Saki

Kazami Saki: Yes, I'm fine. Thank you for your concern.

はい、大丈夫です。 心配してくれてありがとうございます。

Kei: ...Understood. Qu, I'll leave the rest to you. Let's go, Ran.

･･････承知した。クー、あとは頼む。 行くぞ、藍。

Ran: Hey, hey. See you, sis.

ほいほーい。 それじゃあな、ねぇちゃん。

Kasumi: Since it was a story about you, Kay reluctantly went along too.

あなたに関する話だから、 ケイもいやいや出かけていったッスね。

Kazami Saki: me?

わたしの?

Kasumi: See, you're being targeted.

ほら、狙われてるって話ッス。

Qu: Oh, is that true?

あれ、本当なのかい。

Qu: Oh, no, sorry, I'm not doubting you.

ああ、いや、ごめん、 疑っているわけではないんだけど。

Kazami Saki: I understand. I'm not really sure about that either.

わかります。 わたしもいまいちピンときてないですし。

Kasumi: You must be a special person, because Kei came to Japan for you.

特別な人だってのは、確かなんでしょうね。 ケイはあなたのために日本に来たんですから。

Qu: Does Kasumi know what happened to Kei before he came here?

カスミは、ケイがここに 来る前のことを知っているのかい?

Kasumi: No, I don't know the details.

いや~詳しくはないんスけど。

Kasumi: Oh no, it's a message from work, confirming tomorrow's work.

いや、しまった、会社からのメッセッス。 明日の仕事の確認だ。

Qu: It must be hard to have two jobs.

二足のわらじ、たいへんだね。

Kasumi: A little bit. But Starless is a great place, so both the company and I will do our best.

多少は。でも、スターレスはいいところなんで、 会社もこ���ちも頑張るッス。

Kazami Saki: You're busy, aren't you?

お忙しいですね。

Qu: Kasumi is the only one who is working as a company employee and also working as a cast member for Starless.

カスミだけだよ、会社員しながら スターレスのキャストやってるのは。

Qu: But it's strange. He has never brought work from the office to Starless before.

けど、めずらしいな。会社仕事を スターレスに持ち込んだことなかったのに。

Common 2 extra

Ran: Hey sis. Hey!

ねぇちゃーん。おーい!

Ran: How are you feeling? Has that dizziness from earlier gone away?

具合どうや? さっきのめまい、治ったか?

Kazami Saki: Yes, thanks. I'm sorry for worrying you.

はい、おかげさまで。 心配かけてすみません。

Ran: Don't apologize! The most important thing is that you're doing well.

謝らんといてー! ねぇちゃんが元気なのが一番や。

Mokuren: What's wrong, princess? Have you collapsed again?

なんだ、姫。 また倒れたのか?

Ran: That's right. And then Kei grabbed her and carried her in his arms.

そうなんや。で、ケイがこう、 ガバーッって姫抱っこしてさー。

Mokuren: Hmm. Maybe you haven't been eating properly?

ふぅん。 ちゃんと食べてないんじゃないか?

Ran: Ha! That's right, then let's go eat together now! Right!?

は! そうや、だったら今から オレと一緒にメシ食いに行こう! な!?

Kazami Saki: That's nice.

いいですね。

Ran: Great! You want to come too? They say travelers come together. (?)

よっしゃ! あんたも来るか? 旅は道連れとか言うやろ。

Mokuren: ...Just you and princess? I'm certainly worried.

･･･････姫とお前のふたりか。 確かに不安ではある。

Ran: Eh, what's that? I'll protect my sis.

えー、なんやそれフホンイやなぁ。 オレ、ちゃんとねぇちゃん守るし。

Mokuren: Princess, I'll come with you. I'm just starting to get hungry.

姫、私も一緒に行く。 ちょうど腹が空いてきたところだ。

Ran: ...That's the real reason.

･･･････ほんとの理由はそっちなんじゃ。

Kazami Saki: Ah, ahahaha...

あ、あはは････..

Side A2-1

Maica: Oh, Qu, are you on shift today? あれ、クー、今日シフトだっけ。

Qu: Yes, I lost at rock-paper-scissors and had to take out the trash. そう、じゃんけんで負けて ゴミ出しの係になったところ。

Maica: Do you really decide something like that with rock-paper-scissors? It would be over quickly if we all did it together. じゃんけんでそんなの決めるの? 全員でやればすぐ終わるのに。

Qu: It's fun to decide by rock-paper-scissors. じゃんけんで決めるのが楽しいんだよ。

Maica: Who said it? 誰が言い出したの?

Qu: It's Zakuro. He said he wanted to play rock-paper-scissors. 柘榴だよ。 じゃんけんをやってみたいと言うから。

Maica: That guy, he's definitely a little strange in some way. あいつ、やっぱちょっとどっか 変わってるよね。

Qu: I don't deny that. そこは否定しないよ。

Maica: Ah, Gui. This time is a bit unusual. あ、ギィ。 この時間ってちょっと珍しいね。

Gui: Yeah, I guess so. うん、そうかな。

Maica: There's something on the end of your hair. -- A spider web? Come on, get it out. 髪の毛の先になんかついてるよ。 ――クモの巣? ちょっと、取りなよ。

Gui: It's true. ...Did you get it? ホントだ。･･･とれた?

Qu: It's okay, I got it. You went to the previous Starless? 大丈夫、取れたよ。 前のスターレスに行ってきたんだね。

Gui: Because Master might come. But Master didn't come. マスターが来るかもしれないから。 でも、マスターは来ていなかった。

Qu: Master hadn't come? マスターは、来ていなかった?

Maica: I mean, what kind of person is this master really? っていうかさ、そのマスターってのは、 本当にどんな人なの?

Gui: Master is Master. マスターは、マスターだ。

Maica: Not exactly. Name, age, appearance, etc. If there are things like that, I can search. そうじゃなくて。名前とかさ、歳とか。 あと外見とか、そういうのあったら、探せる。

Maica: I can help you. Don't wait, just go find him yourself. 協力してもいいよ、僕。 待ってないで、探したらいいんだ。自分から。

Gui: …Huh? I was told to wait. So I'm waiting. That's all. …うん? 待っていろと言われた。 だから待ってる。それだけだよ。

Maica: Just waiting would be lonely. So--- 待ってるだけなんて、そんなの、淋しいだろ。 だから―――

Qu: Stop it, Maica. I know you mean well, but it's coming across as intrusive. やめなよ、マイカ。 キミは善意だろうけど、押しつけになってる。

Maica: But…because… でも――だって･･････

Maica: …I get it. I was forcing it on him. Gui never said he wanted to look for him. ･･････わかったよ。確かに押しつけてた。 ギィは探したいとは言ってない。

Maica: That's what you did too. お前もそうだったよな。

Qu: That's right. You also encouraged me to search for my long-lost family. そうだね。キミはワタシにも、 生き別れた家族を探そうって言ってくれた。

Qu: But you know what, I don't really need it. I don't even remember when we stop seing each other. でもね、本当に必要ないんだ。 別れた頃のことも覚えてないくらいだし。

Maica: But why? Isn't it your roots, your family? でも、なんでなの? 自分のルーツじゃないか、家族って。

Qu: Still, it is. それでも、だよ。

Gui: Hey, Maica. This isn't about me, is it? クー、マイカ。 ボクの話ではないね?

Qu: Ah, sorry about that, Gui. Sorry for bothering you. ああ、ごめんね、ギィ。つきあわせて。

Gui: …Maica told me, "Let's find a master." ･･････マイカは、ボクに 「マスターを探そう」って言った。

Qu: That's right. People like Maica and Hari have that kind of thing. そうだよ。マイカとか玻璃みたいな人たちは そういうところがある。

Maica: Stop it. やめろよ、そういうの。

Gui: I'm just waiting for my master. Mica has nothing to do with it. ボクはマスターを待つだけだ。 マイカは関係ない。

Maica: …I know it's none of my business. …余計なお世話だってのは、 わかってるよ、僕だって。

Qu: I'm sorry, Maica. I know you mean it. ごめんね、マイカ。 アナタの好意だってことは、わかってるよ。

Qu: I'm grateful to your family for guaranteeing my identity when I was an orphan. アナタの実家には感謝してる。 孤児だったワタシの身元を保証してくれる。

Qu: Thanks to this, I can dance here and not be shunned for being the child of immigrants. おかげでワタシはここで踊っていられるし、 移民の子だと忌避されることもない。

Maica: Of course, I've known you for a long time. We're like family now. 当たり前だろ、お前とは長い付き合いだし。 もう身内みたいなものなんだから。

Qu: But I'd rather not let the past come back to haunt me. でもワタシは、過去が 追いかけてこないほうがいいんだ。

Gui: Did Qu run away? クーは、逃げてきたの?

Qu: Yes, or maybe that's true. I'm not good at staying in one place. そうだね、あるいはそうかもしれない。 ひとところにいつくのが、苦手なんだよ。

Side A2-1 extra

Sinju: So, after practice, I went to the Rindou. それでさ、練習終わったあと、 リンドウに|

Sinju: …hm

Kazami Saki: (Maica… what happened?) (マイカさん･･････どうかしたのかな)

Sinju: Sorry, I'm in the middle of talking. -- Maica. ごめん、話の途中だけど。 ―――マイカ。

Maica: what? 何?

Sinju: Did something happen? I feel like something's different from usual. なんかあった? いつもとなんか、違う気がするんだけど。

Maica: Nothing really… I was just thinking about something. 別に･･････ちょっと考え事してただけ。

Maica: …I realized that it's not always a good idea to just take action. ･･････なんでも行動すればいいって わけじゃないんだなと思ってさ。

Maica: Even if I think something is good, the other person may think differently - so I have to be careful not to be self-centered. 僕がよかれと思っても、相手には違うこともある――独りよがりに気をつけなくちゃ。

Kazami Saki: (Maybe something happened) (何かあったのかな)

Sinju: Hmm, I don’t really know… うーん、おれ、よくわかんないけど･････

Sinju: Maica, you wanted to help someone, right? マイカは、誰かの力に なりたいって思ったんだよね?

Sinju: So, I think it's good to think that way. I think it might have saved some people. だから、そう思ったことは、いいんじゃない? 救われてる人もいると思うよ。

Maica: eh? え?

Sinju: Isn't it lonely when no one cares? 誰にも気にされないなんて、 淋しいじゃない?

Sinju: Even if it's selfish and self-centered, it's not a bad thing if someone cares about you. 独りよがりでも勝手でもさ、誰かが自分を 気遣ってくれたって、悪くないよ。

Kazami Saki: Sinju-san… 真珠さん…。

Maica: Yes, I guess. そう、かな。

Maica: …If that's the case, that's good. ･･････そうだったら、いい。

Side A2-2

Rico: Your new stage costumes are pretty bold. 新しいステージ衣装、だいぶ攻めてるね。

Qu: Maybe so…Maybe so, it's quite different from P's previous costumes. そうかな･･････そうかもね、 今までのPの衣装とはだいぶ違う。

Qu: I'm not sure if I'm used to seeing this sort of thing. 見慣れないかな、こういうのは。

Rico: Well, yeah. But it's fine. It suits you. まあね。でもいいんじゃない。 クーには似合ってるし。

Rico: B's outfits are a little bit different from my taste. Bの衣装はな〜、オレの好みとは ちょっと違うんだよね。

Rico: But tone is important, right? It's the team's color, so I'll match it. でもまあ、トンマナは大事だし? チームのカラーなんだから、合わせるけど。

Qu: Tone and manners… I see. So Rico is in that position in B. トーン&マナーか。･･････ふぅん。 Bではリコがそういうポジションなんだね。

Rico: Team B's full of people who don't care about such things. うちって、 そういうの気にしないヤツらばっかじゃん。

Qu: Hehe, that's true. ふふ、確かに。

Rico: But if you're in Starless, Team B is definitely better. でも、スターレスにいるなら チームBのほうが絶対いい。

Rico: Honestly, Team K was the worst. I was always understudy. ほんと、チームKって最悪だった。 ずっとアンダーだったしさ。

Rico: In Team B I'm number 2, right? This one suits me better. チームBならナンバー2じゃん? こっちのほうがオレにあってる。

Rico: Same for Qu, he's number 2 in C. He has more freedom in his new team. クーもそうだろ、Cじゃナンバー2だ。 新しいチームのほうが自由だし���。

Qu: It's not that I was dissatisfied with P. My position in C was just by chance. Pに不満があったわけではないけどね。 Cでのポジションも、たまたまだよ。

Rico: What nice words are you talking about? I don't really understand that sort of thing. なにキレイゴト言ってんの? クーって、 よくわかんないよな、そういうとこ。

Rico: Come to think of it, I've never asked why Qu is in Starless. そういや、クーはなんで スターレスにいるか、聞いたことなかった。

Qu: Yeah, I don't talk about it, but it's not like I'm hiding it. そうだね、お互いそういうの話さないし。 でも隠してるってわけでもない。

Qu: There was a bit of a dispute at my previous store, so Mokuren, who had left earlier, invited me to join. 前の店でちょっともめてね、 先に店を辞めてたモクレンに誘ってもらった。

Qu: I guess I'm always running away from something. 思うに、ワタシはいつも 何かから逃げているんだろうな。

Rico: Surprising. You don't seem like that type of guy. Maybe that's just me? 意外。そういうタイプに見えなかった。 そういうのってオレのほうじゃない?

Qu: You're not going to run away, despite what you say. キミは逃げないじゃないか。 なんのかんの言いつつね。

Rico: I always want to run away. オレはいつだって逃げたいよ。

Qu: If you really feel like doing that, then do it. 『本当に』そうしたくなったら、 そうすればいい。

Rico: …Qu, are you really younger than me? Are you lying? …クーって、ホントに オレより年下? サバ読んでない?

Qu: Let me answer the same question. Is Rico really older than me? 同じ言葉を返そうか。 リコって本当にワタシより年上?

Side B2-1

Rindou: Heath, are you okay with standing work? Let me know if it gets too difficult. ヒース、立ち仕事大丈夫ですか? きつくなったら言ってくださいね。

Sinju: I'm still healthy and able to move around. I'm making fewer mistakes than before. おれ、まだぜんぜん元気だし動けるから。 前よりミスも少なくなったしね。

Rindou: It's better to have no mistakes than few. ミスは少ないよりゼロがいいんだけどな。

Sinju: I will do my best! 頑張ります!

Heath: You're the one who should not push yourself, Rindou. That color is bad. アンタこそ、無理すんなよ、リンドウ。 色、悪い。

Sinju: Eh, Rindou, are you feeling unwell? Sorry, I didn't notice. えっ、リンドウ、体調悪いんですか? すみません、気づかなくて。

Rindou: Ah---No, I'm fine. ...I wonder if it's really showing on my face. あ――いや、僕は大丈夫。 ･･････そんなに顔に出てるかな。

Sinju: My ability to notice things is low. おれの気づく力って低いからなぁ。

Heath: It's hidden, for the most part. 隠せてるよ、だいたい。

Rindou: As long as the customers don't find out, I think it's okay. Please keep it a secret, both of you. お客様にバレてなければ、大丈夫かな。 2人とも、内緒にしてください。

Heath: ...Hey, Rindou. You can't change the past. ･･････なぁ、リンドウ。 過去は変えられない。

Heath: Even if you're really fucking pissed. Even if you're sad. Even if you're grieving. マジでクソでムカついても。 悲しんでも、嘆いても。

Rindou: I agree. そうだね。

Sinju: That's why I want everyone to come and see our performances. I want to be of help in those situations. だから、みんなにステージ観てほしいよね。 そういう時に役に立ちたいな。

Sinju: It can change your mood a little, cheer you up, or just grieve with you…things like that. ちょっと気分が変えられたり、元気になったり、 一緒に悲しんだり･･････そういうの。

Rindou: Sinju… 真珠…

Heath: Rindou, you can't change the past. リンドウ、過去は変えられない。

Rindou: I agree "Even if it really pisses me off." そうだね 「マジでクソでムカついても」ね。

Kasumi: Heath, can I order? Sinju would like the food brought. ヒース、オーダー頼んでもいいッスか? 真珠は料理運んでほしいッス。

Heath: Okay, that table over there? I'll be right there. わかった。 あっちのテーブル? 行ってくる。

Sinju: I'll be there too! おれも行ってきます!

Kasumi: Is that really a shitty and annoying past? マジでクソでムカつく過去ッスか。

Rindou: Sorry for the bad words. Don't you have any? 言葉は悪いですけどね。 あなたには、ないんですか?

Kasumi: I'll tell you this in secret, Rindou… リンドウにだけ秘密で教えますけど･･････

Kasumi: I'm just a mob character. 自分、モブなんで。

Rindou: You always say that. It's your life, but you're just a mob. あなたはいつもそう言いますね。 自分の人生なのに、モブだなんて。

Kasumi: Rindou is someone who continues to perform on stage. リンドウは、 ステージに立ち続ける人ッスから。

Rindou: Yes, it would be the perfect revenge. そうですね、復讐としては、最適だ。

Kasumi: Who and to whom? 誰が、誰に?

Rindou: I'm sorry, that was a mistake. Please forget what I just said. ごめんなさい、失言でした。 ･･････今のは、忘れてください。

Side B2-2

Kongou: Umm, there's one other person who hasn't eaten the staff meal yet. I wonder who it is. えっと、あと誰かひとりまかない 食べてないんだけど、誰だろ。

Kasumi: Me 自分ッス。

Kongou: Wow. How long have you been there?! I didn't notice. うわっ。いつからいたの!? 気づかなかった。

Kasumi: I'm the ultimate mob character. 自分、究極のモブなんで。

Kongou: Hahaha, ultimate is a good adjective to describe anything. ははは、アルティメットってのは 何についててもいい形容詞だね。

Kasumi: This Mob can even make coffee. Please sit down while I make it. なんとこのモブ、コーヒーも淹れられるッス。 淹れるんで、座っててくださいッス。

Kongou: I'll brew it. 俺が淹れるよ?

Kasumi: You also needs a break. 金剛も休憩時間が必要ッスから。

Kasumi: I heard, you've been asked to be her bodyguard. 聞いたッスよ、金剛、 ボディガードを仰せつかったそうッスね。

Kongou: Yes, that's right. Suddenly. I think it might be necessary. ああ、そうなんだよ。急にね。 必要かも、とは思うんだけど。

Kongou: I've seen her being followed before. 前に彼女がつけられてるとこに 遭遇したことあるから。

Kasumi: Wow. Maybe that's what they bought into. へえ~。そこを買われたのかもしれないッスね。

Kongou: Honestly, I think it's outside the scope of the contract. I was employed as a kitchen staff member. 正直、契約範囲を逸脱してると思うけど。 俺はキッチンスタッフとして雇われてるし。

Kongou: But if you say that, then once you become a stage cast member, a lot of things are different. でもそれを言ったら、ステージキャストに なった時点で、いろいろ違ってるからなぁ。

Kasumi: Have you reviewed the contract? 契約内容を見直したッスか?

Kongou: I plan to discuss it with them when the next renewal comes. In fact, the contract was even considered to be terminated the other day. 次の更新があれば、その時に相談するつも��。 実際、このあいだは契約終了もありえたし。

Kasumi: Borderline. That was kinda funny. ボーダーラインッスね。 あれ、ちょっと面白かったッス。

Kasumi: By the way, Kongou, are you a contract employee? っていうか、金剛、契約社員なんスか?

Kongou: That's right. Every six months. そうなんだよ。半年単位。

Kongou: During the recent incident, I was called in and asked if I felt like I was employed. こないだの騒動の時、呼び出されて確認された。 雇用されてる意識はあるかって。

Kasumi: That's what happened. そんなことあったんスね〜。

Kongou: You guys are treated as part-time workers. 君らはアルバイト扱いだっけ。

Kasumi: Yeah. Well, I don't think most people are really aware of that. そうッスね。まあ、みんなそんなこと あんまり意識してないと思うッスけど。

Kasumi: When did the story about the bodyguard come out? ボディガードの話は、いつ出たんスか?

Kongou: When she came into the store for the first time after her collapse, she was told this out of the blue and it surprised both her and me. 倒れた彼女が、初めて店に顔を出した時にね。 突然言われて、俺も彼女も驚いたよ。

Kasumi: Without any warning? That's pretty bold. 前触れもなくッスか? そりゃまた大胆ッスね。

Kongou: The thing I don't understand the most is that I don't have to be there all the time just when she's in the store. 一番意味がわからないのが、店にいる時だけ、 ずっとそばにいる必要もないっていうこと。

Kasumi: Maybe it's insurance in case something happens. Maybe they thinks something will happen when she's with you なにかあった時の保険かもしれないッスね。 金剛と一緒の時に何か起こると考えてるのかも。

Kongou: What do you mean? どういうこと?

Kasumi: You know that this shop belongs to Haseyama-san, right? この店が「羽瀬山さん」の店なのは 知ってますよね?

Kongou: Of course. He's the owner, right? もちろん。オーナーだろ?

Kasumi: She's not an employee. Things have been going shaky at the store lately. 雇われじゃないヤツね。 最近、会社がきな臭いんですって。

Kasumi: Saki-san—If a customer were to be attacked while in this store, wouldn't that be a total no-go? Sakiさん――お客様がこの店にいる時に 襲われたら、完全にアウトでしょ?

Kongou: I don't understand what it means. 意味がわからない。

Kasumi: Unei responsibility will be held accountable. 管理責任を問われる。

Kongou: In a tag match, if you switch and sink your opponent without holding onto the corner rope, you lose by foul? タッグマッチで、コーナーロープ握ってないのに 交代して、相手を沈めたら反則負け、みたいな?

Kasumi: Well, if I had to choose, it was closer to when the referee sank. いやーどっちかっていうと、レフェリーが 沈んじゃった時のほうが近いッスね。

Kasumi: It's a bet on whether the match will be declared a no contest or whether the person who punched the other will be disqualified, right? 試合がノーコンテストになるか、ぶん殴った側が 反則負けになるか、賭けッスよね?

Kongou: You want to avoid unexpected results. I see, that makes sense. あー狙ってない結果になるのを避けたい、と。 なるほどね、それは納得できる。

Kongou: And you have to show respect to the referee. Well, thanks for letting me know. それに、レフェリーには敬意を表さないと。 いや、教えてくれてありがとう。

Kasumi: We're on the same "new team," so we have to work together. 同じ『新チーム」ですから。 協力しあわないと。

Mokuren: I'm hungry. 腹が減った。

Kongou: Huh? You just ate the staff meal. あれ? さっきまかない食べてたよね。

Mokuren: There were a lot of noisy people so I just had a light meal and left. うるさいのが多くて、 軽く食べて出ちゃったから。

Kongou: Ah, Mizuki and Ran were making a fuss. Okay, I'll make something light. ああ、ミズキと藍が騒いだからね。 わかった、なにか軽く出すよ。

Mokuren: Ask. 頼む。

Kasumi: Do you drink coffee? コーヒーは飲むッスか?

Mokuren: Yes, please. And Kasumi. 飲む、 頼む。 ･･････あと、カスミ。

Kasumi: yes? はい?

Mokuren: Protect Team C's stage, no matter what. チームCのステージは守れ。 何があってもな。

Mokuren: I don't care how they negotiate with Kei and the owner, or how they use my presence. ケイやオーナー相手にどう交渉しようと、 私の存在をどう利用しようと構わない。

Kasumi: Got it. 了解ッス。

Kongou: I'm done. Can I put them here? できたよ。 こっちに並べちゃっていいかい?

Mokuren: Oh, I'll go there. ああ、そっちに行く。

Kasumi: The amazing thing about Mokuren is that they can say that even though they doesn't understand. わかってなくてもあれを言えるのが、 モクレンのすごいところだな。

English is not my main language so there may be a lot of mistakes. I used google translator most of the time so if you find any mistakes in the translation please let me know and I will fix them quickly!

[frozenjokes]

scar requests cubfan135 chill out with all the homocide. this goes poorly BUT scar has a lasso!!! nothing bad happens after that

ao3 link

LOOP 17

Scar woke up.

He did not catch himself, he never did, but chest and muzzle slamming against the hardwood floor hurt so much worse today. Months. Months he hadn’t had to die. He didn’t have the strength to pull himself up off his knees; mentally, yes, but physically, fuck, this was so much worse than he’d- fuck. He didn’t want to do this. He couldn’t do this again, and again and again and again- finding another layout fit to start the puzzle again would be so much of this, arms shaking, stomach hollow. He felt smaller. He was sure he was.

His Little, always in his arms, was gone. That might have shaken him more than his death in the first place.

How could Cleo have done this? Reset everything? She didn’t even- she didn’t even try! Cub wanted her to try and she didn’t-

Scar released a heavy breath. He took a few more, then pushed himself to his feet. How had he lived like this? He’d felt the difference in his strength and energy after his time spent alone, he’d certainly felt it, but..

He wasn’t even sure he had the energy to argue with them now. He was so tired. Had it been getting late? Maybe it didn’t matter. If dragging his feet through the hall to the safe room wouldn’t have killed him, he wouldn’t have bothered putting the effort in.

Cub had not gotten out of bed. Cleo was only sitting on the edge of theirs, staring dead at the floor. She looked up when Scar pushed inside.

“Oh, shit.” There was apathy there, but a shaky concern breached the surface, enough to make Cub look up. He didn’t speak, but stared long enough for Scar to know there was a noticeable physical difference. Yeah.. he didn’t have the thick fur to hide the way his skin stretched over his bones. He didn’t like looking at the humans like this; being seen so clearly.

“Have anything to say, Cleo?” Scar hissed instead, tail lashing in his discomfort.

Cleo frowned, shaking her head. “He was going to die, Scar. We could not finish without him. It sucks, I know it sucks, but I’m not going to draw out anyone’s suffering for a lost cause. I’m just sorry you don’t get to start the loop in a good state. We.. we’ll try again soon. As soon as everyone’s ready.” Cub grunted softly, but Cleo ignored him. “We got pretty unlucky during the last walkthrough period. It shouldn’t take nearly that long next time.”

“Cub wanted you to try, you didn’t even try.”

Cleo snorted, “I did try. You saw all the first aid shit all over the place. Cub doesn’t like to start over, but he would do the same thing if our positions were swapped. He has done the same thing. This isn’t our first rodeo. This isn’t the first time we’ve tried pushing on with a horrible injury either, but if we don’t die from something like blood loss, we go to infection, and if we miraculously survive something like that, it’s months of agony and working around a new disability the escape rooms weren’t designed for. We don’t have the supplies or the training to treat these kinds of injuries for a reason.”

“The puzzles aren’t meant to be solved to completion,” Cub mumbled, “We aren’t meant to escape.”

“Wh-” Scar whipped his head in a hard shake, ear pinned back as far as it could go, “Why, then? What’s the point?”

Cub and Cleo were quiet. They looked at each other, a brief glance turned long, tired. Cleo sighed through their nose. “They don’t know what to do with us. I think I told you that already, but it’s true. They don’t want us dead yet, we’re either too accomplished to kill or too weird; a mix of both if I’m being honest. Both of us are at risk of a random, spontaneous death, which no one wants because we’re too valuable to lose. Neither of us can be left unsupervised. Cub will go right back to environmental genocide and they’re worried I’m going to turn contagious or something, which is completely ridiculous. I’m done with necromancy, the damn government doesn’t have a thing to worry about, but.” Cleo shrugged. “So there’s a time component. That’s the bulk of it. There’s also the fact that both of us are at risk of going insane in one way or another, not that Cub isn’t already sitting in that bucket. I guess it’s no skin off Earth’s back either way.”

“Only clinically, and what the fuck do they know. You’re just as volatile as me,” Cub huffed, but Cleo continued without acknowledgment.

“A lot can change in ten years. There currently isn’t enough research on necromancy and the sculk for the humans on Earth to utilize the skills or the- just figure out what the hell is going on with Cub really, he isn’t particularly useful beyond the knowledge of Being An Extremely Bad Thing that the sculk managed to create. They need to puzzle out how that happened and how to stop it from happening again. They weren’t ready for Cub yet, so they launched him into space where he can’t hurt anyone. Simple. God knows the horrible fucking things they want me for, but they’re not getting shit. I’m perfectly happy being the only person in the whole damn universe to come back on her own. I don’t know what I’m in for after this but I.. already lost everything. Bought myself a new life at the cost of my old one. It was pretty stupid to think everything would just.. go back to normal.” Cleo sighed, but Scar wasn’t in a pitying mood.

“So it’s impossible. It’s impossible to get out early. This is all just something to do, something to work for so you don’t go insane- as if both of you are sane, come on! Why didn’t you tell me!?”

“It’s not impossible,” Cub mumbled, but Cleo elaborated when he did not.

“It’s been done, and unless we’re being lied to, every puzzle designed on this ship is solvable. It’s hard, but it’s possible.”

“There's a chance the puzzles aren’t possible!?” Scar felt lightheaded. Cub and Cleo were quiet for a long time.

“Better not to think about it. It doesn’t matter. Without fail, Scar, you will believe once you finish that first room that you can do it all. That this is the one. That you’re going to get out of here in a few short months. Because you have to. Because there is nothing else to do but play the game.” Cleo sighed, “In the end.. I don’t think the puzzles are impossible. Even when we get stuck, we usually push through before one of us kicks it. It’s just.. six months is a long time to be perfect. That’s a long time not to make a mistake. Plenty of time to get complacent, to get tired, one trap is all it takes, and it’s more than likely you trip more than one over the course of so many months. That’s what makes it impossible.” They stopped, correcting, “Unlikely.”

“Unlikely,” Scar repeated, the word like poison against his tongue. “That’s not fair.”

“It’s not fair,” Cub agreed, sitting up. “Well. I’m going to go make this everyone else’s problem. Goodbye.”

“Wait- What are you doing-? Where are you going?” Scar tried to catch Cub’s sleeve as he slipped past, but Cub ducked left out of reach, not looking back and not responding. “What is he doing?” Scar whirled to Cleo, who shrugged, unconcerned.

“Probably gonna challenge himself to make some device that kills both of us at the same time. Something like that.”

“What!? No!” But Cub was already disappearing through the door to the control room hall, Scar staring helplessly when he was not acknowledged. “This- No. We are not doing this again.”

Cleo snorted, not looking up from where she had settled back on her bed. “Good luck.” Apparently Scar’s movement caught their eye, because they looked up when Scar began to march toward the door. “Is that- Where did you get that? Is that a fucking lasso? Have you always had that?”

Scar did not answer, throwing open the door and pushing inside, holding the loop of his lasso firmly, twirling it above his head. “Cub!”

Cub hesitated on the other half of the hall, surely stopping in his tracks at Scar’s commanding proclamation.

“Is that. What is that. Is that a fucking lasso? Have you always had that?”

“Quiet! You are going to walk your ass right back to the safe room mister, and we are going to talk this out. No more killing each other! No more murder! You agreed to this.”

“I literally never said that.” Cub stared, eyes flicking from Scar to his lasso, intimidated by his prowess. “There’s no way you get me with that. Not from all the way across the room, no way.”

“Are you so sure?”

“I am one hundred percent sure, where the fuck did you get that?”

With the precision and accuracy only possessed by the members of the ScarFire mercenaries, Scar threw his lasso, catching Cub by the shoulders and forcing him back, Cub would SURELY REGRET doubting Scar’s abilities , being dragged face first across the floor as he was.

Scar did not hear the machine gun click behind him, but he saw the piano fall behind Cub, a near miss as Scar’s back was sprayed by bullets, an arrow shot from the other side of the room finding purchase in his shoulder. Scar only knew blood as he wheezed for breath, Cub seeming to have disappeared in the seconds Scar closed his eyes, a hole in the floor and a muted splash serving as explanation. Ah.. So he may have miscalculated.

LOOP 18

Scar went to the safe room as fast as his legs would carry him there, weak as he was, but Cub was not going to run away from him.

Scar caught him just as Cub’s hand reached the hall doorknob, the lasso snatching his neck, pulling just hard enough to unbalance Cub until Scar could get ahold of the scruff of his coat. Cub gagged, pulling at the noose, but there was no more escape.

Behind him, Cleo clapped quietly, and Scar preened with his quarry in hand. Plucking Cub off the ground, he dragged him over to Cleo’s bed, dropping him once satisfied. Cub was quiet, effectively neutralized, and only attempted to bite once or twice when Scar removed the loop from his neck.

“You’ve gotten much faster,” Cleo said, giving Cub a pitying pat on the back. “You’ll get ‘em next time.”

“No he won’t. No more getting anyone.” Scar crossed his arms, tail tip flicking when Cleo rolled her eyes. “This is not healthy!! You two are horribly desensitized to all this violence, and that’s coming from someone whose job it is to kill people like you.” Scar began removing his space suit as he talked, shaking his head. “You two are friends. You’re meant to be friendly with each other.”

“Your imagination is not broad enough to comprehend the ways in which I am going to hurt you,” Cub growled, to which Scar corrected him with a small cuff.

“Those are the kind of words I don’t want to hear anymore. This is not normal behavior. You two- especially you, Cub, need a serious murder detox! There has to be something more productive you could be doing with your time, for goodness’s sakes, something more fun.“

“We could fuck,” Cleo suggested, nudging Cub teasingly.

“I-“ Scar wasn’t entirely sure what to do with that, opening and closing his mouth, “Yeah- sure, I guess you could do that.”

“We could.” Cub huffed, “I guess. But I want the lasso.”

Scar gaped for a moment before holding his lasso closer to his chest. “Please- Don’t defile my lasso.”

“Where did that come from anyway?” Cleo asked, picking the other end of the rope up off the ground and looping it through their fingers, which Scar was suddenly much less comfortable with.

“I’ve always had it! Right in the bag- holster thing on my suit.”

“Would’ve been nice to know,” Cub mumbled, to which Scar gave him a couple hard bats, “Didn’t know we were stranded with a prude, yeesh.”

“Yeesh,” Cleo assented, more than amused with whatever was happening here, “Well you’re going to have to get over it. It’s this or getting violently dismembered, probably.”

“You’re still getting dismembered.”

“Hey! I’m not- fine, take the stupid lasso I don’t care. Not ‘yeesh,’ I’m not a prude. Do whatever you want. I’ll be in the control room if you need me. Just- Get it out of your system.” Scar did not wait for a response before leaving them to it. Cub and Cleo weren’t really food to him anymore, not really, but similarly to how he’d feel seeing two animals go at it in the wild, he was uninterested. At least he got a warning.

So he waited. He called Mumbo, let him know everything was okay; as okay as it could be at least. The loop had reset, and he was having some trouble with the humans, but he was somewhat optimistic they would work it out. At the very least Cub had better behave after this; Scar didn’t like giving up his lasso for.. however they intended on using it. He left that detail out of his recounting to Mumbo, who still wrinkled his nose in distaste.

“Nuisance creatures, they are.”

Scar shrugged, “They’re alright. I’d rather they be frustrated like this than bashing each other’s heads in, you know.”

“Bad or worse, I suppose.” In hindsight, Mumbo was a little bit of a prude.

But Scar didn’t talk to him for more than a half hour, wanting to savor his time over the rest of the week. He didn’t think the humans would be much longer; this was already quite a bit of time to be messing around- he was pretty sure at least. He couldn’t say he knew all that well. At least there was a clock in here, so Scar had the privilege of being painfully aware of the hours as they passed.

He didn’t know what to do. He had assumed one of the humans would come around and let him know when they were done, but Scar hadn’t asked them to. But what if human mating rituals were extremely lengthy? Scar didn’t know! It would make sense if they hadn’t thought to tell him either; this wouldn’t be the first time the humans assumed things were the same on Scar’s planet as it was on theirs. Oh, this was terrible. He couldn’t even knock on the door! The rooms were soundproof- Scar didn’t think they’d hear it.

After three hours, he’d had enough. He was just going to crack open the door and ask; if he saw or heard anything, he’d leave them in peace right away! More power to them! Hopefully by the end they’d be tired, no more murderous intention. At least for today.

Creeping down the hall as if he were afraid of being caught, he hesitated when he reached the door.

It was dark. Oh. Was it night time? Scar couldn’t remember what time night started, but they’d turned the lights off, so it must be now. The humans didn’t really darken the room otherwise. It would make sense. Scar was pretty tired himself.. maybe he should have napped while he was waiting.

“Cleo?” Scar waited, but there was no answer. “Cub?” Still nothing, but Scar could hear quiet breathing through the crack. Well.. alright. He pushed through the door, closing it quickly behind him; he didn’t want the light to disturb the sleeping humans, a Cleo shaped lump in their bed all but confirming this truth. Maybe humans got really tired after mating; that would explain why they didn’t come get him.

Tip toeing inside, cool steel below his foot was the only warning before something snapped with a horrible crunch over his ankle, Scar hardly having time to scream before his legs were yanked out from under him, back slamming into the floor before he was hoisted upwards by his shattered ankle, agony beyond his wildest nightmares wrenching a ragged screech from throat. Something sharp hacked at his lower back, but Scar lacked the wherewithal to know if he’d been cut as his belt and all his holsters tumbled to the floor.

“Help. Help!” the words ripped their way out of his throat with a hoarse sob, he was spinning, spinning, upside down, his leg, his ankle, it had to stop, please, someone had to remove the pressure from his ankle. Desperation surfaced in a surge of strength to heave himself up, cut the tie keeping him suspended, but that effort put even more weight on his shattered ankle, and crying out, he went limp. “Cleo- Cub, please, please!”

As Scar spun, slowly, surely facing the beds once more, he became increasingly aware of the stillness of Cleo’s form, dread dropping like a stone in his stomach, seeming to plummet all the way down to his throat and lodging itself in his jaw. He could still scream, however, and certainly did when something grabbed the base of his scuff, yanking. Thrumming new agony pulsed down his leg, stomach, chest, every part of his body sharing the flame that exploded out from his foot, which Scar was sure would fall off if his leg didn’t disconnect itself from his body first.

“Scar.” Cub held him firm at the back of his neck, and Scar feared resistance would liven the pain and panic that had already blinded him. “It has occurred to me that you have misunderstood the dynamic of our situation here. Let’s just talk it out, that’s what you wanted, isn’t it?”

“Cub. Cub- Let me down. Let me down, please, please, Cub let me down.” From his limited point of view, Scar could see the thick pipes at the ceiling that Cub had used to hoist him into the air, one end tied to the steel toothed trap locked around his bloody ankle that was leaking all the way down his leg. The grip of Scar’s scruff tightened.

“You think you can control me, Scar. You think you can control me, is that right? Hold me down, tell me how it is- Let me tell you how it is, right? How things are going to be here, yeah?” Cub was so angry, so angry, Scar felt his spit on the black of his neck when he screamed, “I know what I am!”

“I’m sorry- Cub, I’m sorry, please let me go.”

“Your room is a hunting lodge, did you know? Or were you out of there too fast to see it, out to get me, you know you can overpower me, Scar, but I’m smarter than you, and I'm starting to get sick of you people getting in my way.”

“I didn’t mean to hurt you-” Scar didn’t get to finish before being whipped into a spin, the agony acute and fiery and so much impossibly worse than before, Scar still dizzied even when Cub caught him again, this time by the throat.

“Look at me.”

Scar tried, he tried, even through the terror, even through the darkness at the edges of his vision and the white spots dancing across his eyes. But he tried, and he saw it, he saw exactly what Cub meant him to see, the spots of light tattooed over his dark brown irises standing out like two irradient stars fighting the haze of thousands of years of light pollution. Scar couldn’t usually see it so clearly with Cub’s thick glasses catching so much glare from the fluorescent lights, but without them, there was no hiding those spots he desperately wanted the rest of the world to see.

“I’ve become exactly what it needs me to be. There’s no person anymore, Scar, there is nothing left to fix or save. I will do whatever I please with you until I return to Earth, and maybe they’ll watch me, they’ll see exactly what I’m capable of, and still they’re so stupid they won’t know to be afraid. I know- I know what I am! I’m meant to be everywhere! I need to spread.”

Cub did not move when Scar wound back, but what scared Scar more than anything is that Cub did not flinch when he raked his claws through the human’s face, deep, catching under his left eyelid, splitting his broad nose and busting the edge of his lip. Scar saw the pale red of stunned skin before blood caught up with the cuts, leaking out in dark clots, and still Cub did not move, he did not blink.

“I’m scared. I’m scared, Cub.” What a stupid, silly thing to say. Calling out to a man who was no longer trying to hear him. No, no, Scar believed him. This was not a man anymore.

“It’s okay,” he said, too tender to be soothing. Cub drew a hand over his face, he moved like he’d forgotten how to use his own limbs, wrist and fingers limp as his forearm guided his hand from his forehead to his chin, collecting the blood that Scar had drawn. “You can still be part of something bigger.”

Scar did not expect Cub to be able to grab him with such precision, thumb and forefinger hooked around the corners of his jaw, pushing, forcing Scar’s muzzle open and driving his own bloodied hand inside. Scar bit him, he bit him because he was scared, he gagged on the fist that Cub seemed determined to choke him with, he cried when Cub cooed at him, then withdrew with the sentiment that Scar had done so well.

Scar struggled to shut his aching jaw, blood and saliva seeping through his teeth as Cub disappeared behind him. There was some kind of sawing sound, or maybe that was just Scar’s pounding head.

And then he fell. He fell and he screamed when he didn’t think he had the strength to scream any longer, he wailed as his legs hit the floor, he could have sworn his ankle might have snapped off, but he didn’t know, he couldn’t when his eyes were stung by hot tears. He did not have the strength to sit up. He whimpered when Cub’s fingers brushed behind his ear, petting softly.

“It’s more fun when it’s a game, isn’t it,” Cub mumbled, but Scar didn’t believe it was Cub anymore, “I can keep it together. For the sake of getting out of here, I can keep it together. But you get restless. Angry. I want to see the world, worlds, don’t you? I have to. Maybe you don’t feel that way. For what it’s worth, I’m glad you’re here.”

For Scar, ‘keeping it together’ seemed a monumental task, but he tried, tried to be still, move subtly, find one of the guns that Cub had cut loose from his hip. He didn’t know what Cub could see; very little apparently, but Scar hadn’t noticed any impairments or stumbling, not now. He was afraid, very afraid that Cub might try to keep him alive.

“Damn.. country roads,” Cub mumbled on, unfocused, “People drive so fast, don’t look where they’re going. I got hit, I leveled that car and it nearly killed me too, nearly.. That would have been better, I think. It would have been beautiful.” Briefly, Cub’s hand left Scar’s head to make a vague, poofing gesture, but it found its way back quickly, and Scar wondered if Cub was afraid to lose him. No, that was ridiculous. “Those damn headlights, it’s horrible in the dark. They just keep getting brighter, and why? I don’t like the light. Let the night stay dark, that’s what I think. It’s criminal. Those lights should be illegal.”

Scar was afraid to break eye contact, not that Cub was really looking at him, but Scar didn’t want him to start. Exploring with the hand furthest away from his captor, he finally found his belt. Crawling along the leather, he released a shaky breath when the first holster was out of reach.

“Are you hurting?” Cub did not ask like he expected an answer. Scar grimaced, pulling his belt closer, but the noise got Cub’s attention, turning, but he did not see, Scar was certain his eyes did not focus, so with great effort, Scar heaved himself upwards to redirect Cub’s attention, more noise to distract from his true intention.

“Don’t go,” Cub said, but Scar was more focused on his guns, his empty holsters, fuck, maybe it was obvious they’d bounce away from the fall? “Aren’t you dizzy? Why don’t you lay down. Close your eyes.”

He was dizzy. The idea of Cub's sculk being the cause made him sick to his stomach; he absolutely could not stay here and under no circumstances would he be closing his eyes. Seeing double, he managed to get eyes on one of his guns. Cub only watched as Scar dragged himself toward it.

“You’re tired, aren’t you?”

Cub would not be able to stop him. By the time understanding dawned on his form, Scar’s gun was already cocked. Cub did not speak before the bullet pierced his skull. Relief crashed out of Scar in a whimper, collapsing where he sat as the last of his energy left him. He really.. He really didn’t feel good. For the first time since he’d been dropped, he thought to check on his ankle, immediately wishing he hadn’t. Scar was.. starting to think Cub never intended on saving him. At that level of nearly severed, Scar was stunned it had ever held his entire body weight for so long. Ah..

Pain had lost all meaning at this point. Better, certainly, to lay down.. close his eyes..

[aquanova99]

Interrupted Affair

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Felix x Reader

A/N: To the lovely people who requested these there were three very similar requests so I have made some changes to all three and combined them into one story, I apologize but I do not want to write a similar story three times or more over.

A/N: In some translations Danae means she who judges

A/N: I hope you are all having a good holiday season! Drink water, take care of the mental health. I am trying to write much more now that I actually have no school to worry about for the upcoming six months so hopefully more will be coming out soon

➽───────────────❥

The walls felt cool on your back. In fact, it was the only thing grounding you from the fact that all you wanted to do was scream from the pleasure filling you as you kept sliding up and down ever so slightly with every thrust. I felt one of Felix’s hand gripping your thigh more or less keeping you in place, the other pressed too softly against my throat. The strength I gained from immortality had proven to be a perk whenever I decided to try anything new like this. Felix had proven too eager to please now that you had finally been turned. Our breaths came out in pants, moans escaping our lips every so often.

“I do wish you wouldn’t hide from me Danae, I would have joined in.”

A primal growl escaped from deep within Felix’s throat, “We’re busy.”

“Yes, I can hear that but it seems we are about to be called into a trial soon, so I would suggest getting yourselves decent.”

I couldn’t stop myself from laughing at Felix’s clear irritation. “I guess we’ll have to pick this up later,” I brought his face towards mine for a kiss deep enough to let him know you were not finished with the plans you had made for your day off.

“There is no guessing little one. We will be finishing this later.” He pushed against you one more time. He moaned against your lips but set you down gently. Both of you making quick work into changing into guard ready attire. You do your best to walk and tie your hair up in a sleek ponytail. Supposedly, it’s the only I ever have a chance of looking the slightest bit intimidating. With quick precision you lined your eyes and touched up any possible makeup that had more or less been smudged with the last hour.

You found Demetri leaned against the wall outside of your shared quarters, “Sorry to interrupt you two.”

“No… you aren’t. Wipe the smirk off your face Metri.” Felix gently pushed his forward and you trailed behind the two. Jane strode up next to you as Alec went ahead with the two males.

“Gross. I can still the two of you on each other.”

“Play nice Jane,” I responded ruffling the young girls hair, “Don’t hate love.”

The young girl stuck her tongue out at you, and then linked her hand in yours. I could hear Felix ask Demetri how much they had before we all had our audience.

“About 15 minutes. Its that Cullen boy.”

“Cullen? Carlisle’s coven?”

Demetri just nodded as he pressed forward, “Mhm. I think Aro believes he is finally offering his services to our cause.”

“Services? What can he do?” I had heard about Carlisle and his rather… complicated relationship with one of your leaders. No one had brought up him siring any others.

“Mind reading cara. Different from Aro, he can read whatever is in the forefront of your mind but he has no need to touch anyone.”

“Sounds invasive.” I grumbled, why would anyone want that around them.

“It is. Lets hope he’s not actually here for that. I don’t see the need for that anyway. Aro may have to work a bit more to understand what everyone is thinking but his gift is not a necessity.” Felix echoed your thoughts.

Jane’s hand squeezing your was enough to jar me from asking anything else, “Danae…could you do my hair before we into the trial?”

“Sure hun, braid today?”

“No there is not much time, could you just do a bun?”

“You can’t do it yourself sister?” Alec teased

“I can, I just like it when D does it.”

“I can do your hair if you really want me to Alec.” I winked at Jane and let her pull me aside for a second while she pulled out some ties. It was a simple bun really, you decide to put a small braid around it while she pulled pins from a small pouch she carried with her at all time. She handed a ribbon as you put the second pin in her hair to secure the braid, “Well you certainly came prepared, didn’t you?”

“I knew you would say yes.” She smiled as she grabbed your hand once again. I couldn’t help feeling a protectiveness over the young vampire. She had such a sad maturity behind her eyes, you had found yourself bonding to her first. You found out later that it had stressed your now mate beyond your comprehension. As Jane and I descended into the throne room, I took in the once terrifying throne room. While the methods that your family had come to use were not always pretty they were you found out, necessary. It was hard remembering all of the details from your human life, you had been unfortunate enough to be found in the middle of a rather serious confrontation. It was supposed to be a walk to clear your head on what your next step in life was.

You remember walking for so long you got lost. A beautiful parallel to where you were in life. Lost. Not knowing what you were doing. Confused. Unsure of whether you had made the right career path. You had spent your life forcing yourself to be good at school, studying the hardest subjects, just for a chance to get out of the home you had learned to hate. A family stitched together by necessity and hate. You had learned to differentiate different kinds of footsteps. Learned different ways to hide. Learned ways to escape. By the time you finished college, you only went back out of a need to for a warm place to sleep. Often times, even that was not promised. You snuck out of your room again after the yelling began, two angry pair of feet stomping towards you. Surely to ask you to start paying more than you already were towards their house. You were tired. So tired.

While you knew you had shielded yourself from everyone, you would have never expected that included supernatural beings. It was so late, seeing two of the most beautiful creatures you had ever seen huddled over what you would later find out was another one of their kind. Someone making a show of their meals. Felix and Demetri had been sent out to take care of the issue. Demetri made eye contact with you first. Beautiful, you thought. There was no other word to describe him but it was the other vampire that would captivate nearly every thought from then on. Beautiful too, but in much different light.

“Felix.” The blond one said tentatively

Felix. The man turned around to face me. A face so used to masking emotions in stressful situations faltered. “How—”

“I- I’m not sure.”

“We… should take her to Aro.” Demetri nodded at his friends suggestion. He began stepping forward, this was enough to register the danger you were actually in. Your legs twitched, ready to sprint, knowing it would mean nothing.

“Relax darling, we just want to talk. It seems you’ve caught us at a bad time.” Demetris voice was satin, “Felix, why don’t you take our new friend to pick up whatever she needs for her trip I’ll see if I can find her after I’ve finished…cleaning up?”

Felix turned to walk towards you. Run, that’s what your body wanted, as if your legs were screaming at me to run. Sprint. Walk away. Turn around. No command worked. You had become a statue in your own right. Felix gently had rested a hand against your arm in an effort to get you to start moving forward. You remember looking up at him still unable to move, every instinct was screaming at you. You were going to die. So, why were you so calm?

“I don’t believe we have met properly, little one. I’m Felix.”

“Danae.”

He chuckled a bit, as if surprised, “Did that name mean something to your parents when they named you?”

“Maybe, my grandmother gave it to me.” A distraction. A very well thought out distraction. And you fell for it all the same.

“Well, Danae. Let’s take a walk and I can explain everything you saw tonight.”

“Doesn’t feel like I have much of a choice.” You grumbled. Still, you took his outstretched arm. He immediately explained what you had just seen. That you couldn’t be allowed to go back home. It didn’t necessarily sound like a bad thing if you were being honest. If you came back now, and they were awake… your bruises had just healed from the last time you misjudged. It was always worse for you when you finally came back after a while of hiding, the punishments never got easier. If they did it was only when they had forgotten what they were so angry about in the first place. You had managed to stay away long enough for them to forget they were even mad a few times.

“Would you like to go pick some things from your home?”

“Not really. I probably do need some clothes I guess.”

“That’s all you want?”

“Yeah? I don’t need anything else. But since you guys are vampires I’m assuming you can help me sneak in?”

“Of course, this is rather… sudden. Would it be easier to leave a note or we can have someone make it appear as though something happen.” You should have been concerned, shocked maybe that it would all happen so quick. He wanted you to hesitate. But this was the only chance you might get.

“No. I just need my clothes. I don’t want to stay in this forever.”

“We can always acquire some newer clothing items later as well.”

“Perfect. I only need to get a few things then.” Felix stared for half a second too long. Too eager. Way too eager. He had become eerily silent until you made it to the run down house you had been forced to live in for entirely too long. Felix scrunched his face probably reeking at the smell of alcohol and cigarettes even you could smell from the outside. You pointed, “Is there anyone in that room? Can you tell?”

“I can and no. It appears whoever is in there is asleep.”

You breathed out a sigh of relief, “Thank god.”

You could worry about how he knew they were asleep later. Right now you would focus on avoiding any questions as you felt his eyes burn a hole in the back of your head as he helped you in. You went straight to your closet as quietly as you could, you moved a wall panel and grabbed a backpack and turned back to face Felix. It had been ready for years, but where would you have gone? You had next to nothing.

“Ok. I’m ready.”

Felix ignored you. His eyes scanning the room. It was the only time you’d felt frightened around him. He seemed to understand something you were not ready to divulge quite yet. He glided over to your bed, lifting it with ease. You shouldn’t have been surprised his vision was heightened along with his other senses. He set the bed down too gently for someone his size. Going to another spot where he seemed to inspect the floorboards. You had taken to make sure nothing would seem out of place. Yet, he seemed to know what you were hiding under one of the less creaky boards. He made no move toward it, just stared. He stood there for a few seconds longer, you noticed he had stopped breathing.

“Felix? I want to go now.” His head slowly turned to the side, nodding ever so slightly. You scrambled down, eager to get away from this house and not worry about being dragged back, or being forced back from lack of funds. Anything, literally anything seemed like a better option. Even if it meant an eternity of being frozen like Felix and Demetri. Thirsting for blood for your only diet. Better than being starving, you supposed.

You wondered when Demetri would show up, the walk through different alleys was painfully silent. Felix stopped you somewhere barely illuminated by the night sky, “what was under the floor?”

“Nothing.”

“I have no time for games Danae. What was it?”

“It feels like you know already.”

“There was blood all over that room.”

Your cheeks flushed with embarrassment, “there’s not.”

“There was. Covered by bleach maybe but stains everywhere.”

“I—what does that have to do with the floorboard?”

“The smell is stronger there. You realize you’ll be living with creatures that thirst for blood constantly?”

Embarrassment. Shame. Guilt. You weren’t proud of how low you had stooped. “It won’t be an issue. It was a long time ago. The knife there is only in case I needed to protect myself.”

“Da—“

“We are done with this conversation, Felix.”

Demetri jumped down from another building, “Nothing. I had to look for you.”

Felix nodded, “take her back to the castle. I left something at the square.”

Demetri scoffed but shrugged off his friend, carrying you off towards your new home.

“Danae.”

“Hm?” Caius’ voice cut through the air, you wondered if you would ever not flinch at the sharpness in his voice. An unfortunate side effect to his voice being all to similar to your late fathers.

“I assume you’ve been briefed on the individual on its way here?”

“Yes, Master Caius.”

“Good. You please ensure your gifts surround the entire guard in attendance.”

“Of course.” You had never been able to use your gifts in a trial. Like Felix, I wore the cloak of a lesser guard. Someone meant to fade into the background, not that Felix ever blended anywhere. Caius was risking you no longer being a secret. You wondered just how intrusive the Cullens boy gift could be. You had to work quickly as the younger vampire threw the doors open to the throne room, hardly waiting for the secretary to let him in. Officially I couldn’t stand him, was he always this rude?

“Edward to what do we owe the… pleasure of this visit?” Aro tried his best to remain calm

“I come asking for assistance.” His eyes darted to all three kings. Probably wondering why the sudden silence

“Assistance? In what?” Caius made no effort to hide his annoyance

“I wish to be done with this life. I have nothing left for me.”

That seems a bit dramatic. Aro motioned for him to come forward and show his thoughts. Edward didn’t hesitate. It wasn’t until you were past his eyesight that you glanced at Felix. He waved his hands ever so slightly, then placed them back to his usual position. Calm down, he warned. Your faces must have given you away. I suppose it wasn’t shocking he knew you were annoyed yourself, you often had trouble keeping your face void of your own personal feelings towards others.

“You can tell us, you know?”

You looked at Felix, his voice chillingly quiet. “Hm?”

“We’re all broken here, little one. We may understand better than you think.”

God you’d put your poor mate through the ringer. It’d taken years before he finally broke through the wall you’d spent years building up. Jane had been the one to get you to officially talk about what had happened, as young as she was she was the best bet anyone had at building up your shield, but it was Felix that saw how deeply it affected you. Telling your story was quick, it was after all, done and over with. No need to dwell on it. Felix was the one to ask the hard questions to make sure you were really alright. Slowly you both dug deep into your experiences, trading stories in exchange for telling your own.

You’d grown to accept eachothers past. Now you couldn’t imagine living without him. So, in a way, you understood the crazed vampire standing before you. Aro made sure to squash any sympathy remaining.

“You told her about the secret?”

“Yes.”

“And Alice knew how the girl would react to your disappearance?”

“Not the jump. I foolishly hoped her vision had been wrong.” He gave out more details to all but ensure the nail in his coffin, “you saw how reckless I was to be involved with a human. I even caused a pile up in a desperate attempt to try and save her from a nomad.”

“Yes. James, Victorias Mate.” Victoria? One of the girls from Heidis coven?

“I almost endangered the secret when I saved her in the parking lot. Clearly, I have done more than enough to warrant punishment.”

“Indeed. However, true. We…” he gestured to his brothers, “decide a worthy punishment. It would be rather rude of us to not let our dear friend Carlisle know of what’s to come.”

Edwards eyes shone bright with panic. This was not part of his plan. “My family had nothing to do with this.”

“Perhaps not but, instead of leaving the already skeptical town you live in, you convinced them all to stay. They should all be smarter than that.”

“Please, there is no need to involve them. I take full blame.”

“Oh of course young Edward. But as you said punishment is in order, a swift death hardly seems to fit the crime.” Aro turned to Caius, a silent conversation happening before turning back to Edward, “or perhaps we do nothing, after all the secret has not actually been compromised from what you have shown me.”

“B-but…”

“Perhaps as a favor to an old friend? Yes.”

Edward concentrated on Aro. Desperate to know what he was really thinking, “So that’s your final judgement?”

“Yes I believe so. Brothers do you have any hesitations?”

Both shook their heads and waved him off, Edward walked out of the room slow for even a human, only pausing at the door “Thank you for the audience.”

Everyone was still until we could no longer hear his footsteps, safe from hearing distance.

“What’s your actual plan brother?” Caius asked

“Unfortunately, what I said was true. There is no definitive way to prove he endangered our kind. He will force our hand sooner than you’d think.”

“Felix, Demetri. Be on standby please. We wouldn’t want anyone to make a scene at the festival. After all, it is in honor of our dear Marcus.”

“Don’t you tire of using that joke, Aro.”

“Not really, no.”

The rest of you were excused from the throne room. As the kings continued their conversation. A secretary already dispatched to call Carlisle. Felix and Demetri left to keep an eye out. You were left to laze around until then. Maybe Heidi knew more about what was going on with Edward if she happened to keep in touch with her old coven mate, then again her old coven was such a touchy subject for her. You decided against it, Heidi already had a lot on her plate with your day today. You all waited around the throne room for the moment the Cullen boy would inevitably return. Fortunately you did not have to wait long. Unfortunately, he did not return alone.

“What a happy surprise! So Bella is alive after all. Isn't that wonderful? I love a happy ending... they are so rare.”

Jane had been sent out shortly after Felix and Demetri, apparently speeding along the process. Edward explained Aro’s gift to Bella, conveniently leaving out that his gift had no use at the moment. Aro decided to see if Janes powers worked on Bella when his failed, stupidly the Cullen boy tried to protect her. The girl was screaming at Jane to stop.

“Ugh are you kidding me?” Oh god I just said that out loud, didn’t I? Caius smirked at your outburst, you would never live this down, “sorry.”

“Quite all right my dear, is there something you’d like to say?” He was absolutely baiting you but well…better to say you misunderstood not like he could tell you would be lying.

“I just find interesting that she’s crying over someone who knew exactly what leaving would do to her. Bloodsinger or not, he lied to her. Look at her. She looks like she hasn’t ate since this guy left.”

“Knew?” She turned to him, and the tiny vampire that accompanied them, “you knew and you left me anyway?”

“Bella please understand.”

“So you meant it? You didn’t love me?”

“If he loved you we wouldn’t be here right now.” You grumbled, “and you know what while we’re at it? This is the guy you lost it over? He couldn’t even be bothered to go visit a headstone before deciding it was time to die? I mean—“

“Danae…” Aro raised his hands urging you to calm down

“Sorry.” You could see Demetri fighting a smile, but you could almost guarantee Felix was going to scold you for being so bold in front of the kings. Aro continued with Janes test on Bella. Nothing, as suspected.

“Hahahahahaha. Remarkable. She confounds us all. So, what do we do with you now?”

“You already know what we have to do Aro.” Marcus cut in

“She knows too much. She’s a liability.” Caius stated afterwards

“Tsk. That’s true. Danae?” Me? I was not an executioner of any kind. Then again you’d just made a scene to rival the ridiculous ginger haired vampire, so I suppose there could be a worse punishment. You were almost immediately tackled by Edward, but your mate had trained you well. And he was weak, to be quite frank. You managed to throw him towards Felix, who effectively held him still as you stalked back towards Bella. You saw Demetri holding Alice, you wonders if she had tried to help her brother. You were steps away from the dumb founded girl when Alice chimed in,

“Wait! She’s going to be one of us. I’ve seen it.” She pushed away from Demetri but Aro held his hand up.

“That will not be necessary.”

“She could be useful someday. She obviously has some kind of abilities.”

Behind you Edward struggled to gasp out a single “No…Bella.”

“Has Edward not told you? We have our own shield of sorts. Edward hasn’t been able to use his gift since stepping in this room.” Alice glared at him for the lack of information. He struggled against Felix. Alice’s scanned the room looking for anything that might help them. “Can you guarantee no one else knows of our kind?”

Her hand flinched back instinctively, “Well, she didn’t— not really. She told someone who already knew.”

“Shut up. Alice. Shut up!” She dropped to her knees, she had come into your small town to save someone unknowingly dooming someone else in the process. “No… no no. She’s lying!” The gravity of her choice was settling in. Giving up her own life meant little to her but to punish a friend for what? Someone who she now knew didn’t care for her enough to stay behind. Such a shame. You almost wanted to comfort her, but this was part of the job. She couldn’t go back.

You looked towards Aro. He nodded as you stepped forward, “I am sorry about this. You deserved… better.”

You turned her toward Edward both now kneeling on the ground, he was thrashing to try and save the girl he got into this mess. You wondered how Aro would force him to live. Bella’s screams filled the room. Edward snarls echoing in reply. It only took a minute to drain her. Felix effectively ripping off Edwards head as her body dropped to the ground. You wondered if that would be the last thing he saw or if Aro was ensuring he wouldn’t try and bring matters into his own hands again.

“I was hoping for a happy ending this time.” He turned to the tiny vampire who was frozen in fear of what was coming next, “Alice you can either stay here and await for the tour today to wrap up or suffer the same fate as your brother. We will wait until Carlisle can come so we can explain any…misunderstandings. Heidi should be here any moment.”

There was a squeak that seemed to escape Alice as a sign of agreement as she stood to the side to await for the remaining member of the coven to join the rest of you for the tour. You wondered if she would partake now that you had your fill. The tour came and left you were able to get seconds since Alice was to numb to move from her spot. Every once in a while she would let out a small whimper but nothing more came from her. The lower guard were released minus yourself, Felix and Santiago as you had to wait some more for Carlisle.

“Is Edwar— I mean are you….”

“We have no plans in letting him die dear Alice.” Aro said bored. The secretary poked her head in after a while to let everyone know the other Cullens had arrived. “Felix, put our friend together again please. We don’t want to make a bad impression. Gianna, bring them in please.”

The pair came in hesitantly, the woman’s eyes glazed as if she had been crying. “Welcome to our home Carlisle!…I assume this is Esme?”

“Aro.” He nodded his down slightly to the leader of the three, waiting too long to answer his questions. Staring into his eyes too long for anyone to miss what was happening, “yes, this is my wife and mate.”

“Hello. I’m…so sorry there’s been a misunderstanding”

Aro tilted his head “…yes. It would seem so. Shall I debrief the events that occurred these last few days?” Edwards screamed as the venom glued him back together. Esme tried to rush over to him but was stopped by Alice. A quick head shake in warning of what could happen. She grabbed her husbands arm as she turned back to face the leaders.

The pair nodded as Aro went on to explain how Alice’s vision has come true. Bella had withered away, Carlisle flinched when Aro explained how Alice saw Bella jumping. What we now know was cliff diving, and explaining how Alice had immediately told the Cullens that had been around what had happened when she did not see Bella come up. Alice was told to explain about the reservation and holes in her visions. Another name you were unaware of, Rosalie, broke the news to Edward who decided to call Bella’s home. Where the misunderstanding took place. The rest was quick.

“I appreciate you sparing my son.”

“Sparing? He is still being punished. But as you all can’t seem to respect the law you will be the one to carry out his sentence.” Carlisle and Esmes eyes grew wide, the former looking at his old friend, begging him to reconsider with a single glance.

“Oh it’s nothing like that Carlisle. You are both to ensure he stays alive and out of sight from humans at all times. This does mean you will likely have to stop human interaction so much but, we think he should have to pay for the life of that poor girl. And you all broke the one tule we have at the end of the day. If Edward decides he doesn’t actually care about his family the way he claims he does, you will be the one to end his life.” Aro said calmly

With that everyone was silent. Edward would love a miserable existence, never able to complain about the volturis rather gracious act. From any other perspective at least. And punishment is still served. Edward couldn’t lift his eyes from the ground.

“You may go.” Caius waved them off, the stumbled against themselves as they began exiting the room

“Oh Carlisle?” Aro stopped them, “if anyone from that reservation says anything, it will be your job to take care of all of those children as well. Are we clear?”

Carlisle’s lips tightened into a thin but nodded as turned without so much of a goodbye to his old “friend.”

Finally, everyone was dismissed. Today felt…dirty. I felt dirty. It was time for a bath. Felix started one before you said anything,

“Are you alright?”

His hand caressed your face as you waited for the water, while o be honest you weren’t sure. You felt…fine? But also, guilty?

“I don’t know. It seemed so unnecessary all the things that guy did. He knew the risks, did he think he could get away with it? Or maybe he thought Carlisle’s friendship would save him?”

“Well. It did save him. Aro would not have been so generous to anyone else.”

“Does it get easier?”

“Being the one that finishes the job? Yes and no. You learn to compartmentalize.”

“Sounds exhausting”

He chuckled, “it can be. Let’s try not to get too riled up in front of the kings, yes? You get away with for being a newborn more or less but I doubt they will let it slide again.”

“I mean he deserved it. I thought you would have been proud of me.” You playfully nudged him away. Sticking your tongue out. Playfully getting closer to dangerous territory.

“Proud? Yes. Always. But I would rather not have to punish you for something we can control.”

“I don’t know, you punishing me sounds like a good time.”

“Hmm. I do recall being interrupted while we were in the middle of something earlier?”

“This is true, should I invite Demetri? He was so eager to join us.” A growl escaped from Felixs throat as he scooped you up, a smirk growing on his face as he threw you down on the bed.

“ I suppose we’re going to find out exactly how much you enjoy punishment after all.”

➽───────────────❥

Taglist: @adaydreamaway08 @artaxerxesthegreat @aunt-pipie @imtoanonymousforyou @jelly-fishy-babie @quarthly @venusdelaroix @volturiwolf @xcastawayherosx

[thursdayinspace]

20 questions for 20 writers

tagged by @thatfragilecapricorn30 @randomfoggytiger and @baronessblixen thank you!! <3

1. How many works do you have on AO3? 21

2. What’s your total AO3 word count? 70.063 -- this is my new AO3, so that's why it's still so low, haha.

3. What fandoms do you write for? Only X-Files now.

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos? spectacular (glasses sex!), it's the day the world didn't end, from this morning forward (that makes me so happy), got you covered, wild side

5. Do you respond to comments? yes. if I ever don't, I'm sorry, it's not because i didn't love your comment, but i just don't get around to it right away sometimes. but i try to reply to every single one because i love them all.

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? ohhh. i don't write super angsty endings . . . I guess mend into pieces bc it's season 2 and they know they're making a mistake, but we all know they'll figure it out eventually, so.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? they pretty much all end happily. i'm going to more or less randomly pick five ways to say i love you. because i loved writing that ending.

8. Do you get hate on fics? so, okay. there are two stories here i want to tell from an old fandom. one is funny. one is kind of great, really?

the funny one: i got a looooong comment on a fic, like several paragraphs long, going into great detail about why the fic sucked and why i sucked and why i had personally offended them by writing fic at all. they obvs meant to comment anonymously but forgot to log out. by the time i got to my computer, they had deleted their entire account. of course i had their name in the ao3 email. i laughed so hard at that.

the kind of amazing one: i got a very rude anon on tumblr, and i responded by saying i'd be happy to discuss their criticism, but i wasn't going to have a conversation with a hockey puck with sunglasses, and asked them to come off anon so we could talk. and they did! they showed up in my dms a short while later. we solved nothing and did not part as friends, but i actually have mad respect for that. wherever they are today, i hope they have taken some anger management classes and are doing well!

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind? yeah, i certainly do. idk what kind? the porny kind? lol no i mean it's kind of lame but fun.

10. Do you write crossovers? i wrote a stargate atlantis/firefly crossover centuries ago but that was it. or maybe start trek with sth else, i don't remember.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen? not to my knowledge.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated? i don't think so, no.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before? yes! it's so much fun and i would do it again.

14. What’s your all-time favorite ship? mulder and scully!

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will? i plan to finish all of them.

16. What are your writing strengths? it used to be dialogue but i don't think it is anymore. idk? i think i can create an atmosphere?

17. What are your writing weaknesses? i tend to repeat myself a lot and then skip over other things completely. i'm not good with transitions between scenes.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic? i haven't done it, but if it would make sense for a fic, i might do it.

19. First fandom you wrote for? stargate atlantis. i was very late to the fanfic party.

20. Favorite fic you’ve written? it's called 'ellipsis' and is still with the beta. but of the ones i've already posted, either from this morning forward or yesterday's future.

Randomfoggytiger added additional questions:

1. Is writing a hobby or way of life? i mean it's a hobby but it's definitely also a way of life. there isn't ever a time when i don't think about writing and everything all the time connects in some way to a thing i'm writing and i can't imagine what i'd do without writing.

2. A journal full of writing notes or a clean, completed manuscript? completed manuscript! or notes? uhh . . . both?

3. Who (or what) is your writing inspiration? everything. random things. i can't think of one specific thing, it can be literally anything.

4.Which is worse: someone you "idolize" reading your first draft or listening to you sing? both thoughts are equally awful lol

5. Has writing from someone else's POV ever changed your own perspective? yeah, i think so. not in any big way, but about smaller stuff, just the way i look at certain things? yes.

6. Tumblr, AO3, LiveJournal, or FFN? ao3!!! my tinkerbell brain loves the comment section, haha. also it's just so much nicer to read on ao3 and there's the download option, so also as a reader, def ao3.

7. AO3 wordcount, and are you satisfied with it? 70.063 - no, i'm not satisfied with it. i used to write multi-chapters with more words. but it's a new account so yeah starting small again.

8. What movie/book/fic gripped you irrevocably? jasper fforde's 'thursday next' series. it's where i stole my name from. literary detectives? oh man. it's the kind of story where you wish you'd had the idea first. go read it!!!!!

9. What's the highest compliment you could ever be given, and have you been given it? i am really really lucky to have been given so many amazing compliments and i appreciate every single one. i couldn't say what means the most to me . . . probably when it's personal to the commenter? when someone tells me sth i've written touched them in some way. bc that's what i want to achieve.

10. What defines your writing style? lol idek man pretentious purple prose? i think i live somewhere between overuse of metaphors and focus on the rhythm of a text. i love writing in english bc it flows so nicely. idk is trying to make it sound nice a style bc then that's at least what i'm going for.

who hasn't been tagged? no pressure tags for @backintimeforstuff @nachosncheezies @actual-changeling and everybody else who wants to!

[lifewtr]

∘⋆․⊹․∘⟡˖*⊹ * fan fic tag game * ∘⋆․⊹․∘⟡˖*⊹

HELLO @krankittoeleven! THANKS FOR THE TAG, WE ARE DEFINITELY HOMIES NOW :D i enjoyed your answers a lot; it's nice to meet you! ♥

1. How many fics do you have on AO3?

as of today, i have 50 fics on the archive!

2. What’s your total AO3 word count?

426,518. jeez.

3. What fandoms do you write for?

predominantly avatar: the last airbender, though i have certainly dabbled in others over the years. right now i'm slowly working my way into the jujutsu kaisen fandom ♥♥

4. What are your top five fics by kudos?

Lemon, Two Sugars (zutara, rated M): 905 kudos.

Give It Up (zutara, rated E): 824 kudos.

Half Joy (vinceno, rated E): 457 kudos.

Lyk Dis (zutara, rated E): 425 kudos.

Put It Down (zutara, rated E): 414 kudos.

5. Do you respond to comments?

I DO I'M JUST ABYSMAL WITH TIMELY REPLIES. I'M SORRY I LOVE ALL OF YOU AND I READ EVERY SINGLE ONE I SWEAR <3

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

like the homie krankittoeleven, i pretty much only use angst as a plot device - there are only happy/hopeful endings in this household lmao - but if i consider context, the fic with the angstiest ending is probably Honorfall (zutara, rated E). maybe Of All the Things My Hands Have Held (zutaraang, rated M)..?

7. What is the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

lots of my fics have happy endings ;))))) as for the happiest... ahh, probably If It Means a Lot to You (zukaang, rated M) and Flowers Never Pick Themselves (zutaraang, rated M).

8. Do you get hate on fics?

er, yes and no? i feel like hate is a strong word. it's more so that there are some readers who have simply ~disliked~ certain premises of mine, which, y'know, is what it is! click away or write your own shit! ♥

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

the good kind, baby, and absolutely nothing less. if it doesn't make me wet, i don't post it!

10. Do you write crossovers?

i used to! especially with and amongst irl friends. if there was a fandom i/we were into, there was a harry potter crossover in our shared docs to go with it LOL.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

an entire fic? no, not to my knowledge anyway. but i've definitely had some scenes and dialogue grabbed and scattered across the web over the years.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

no ;-; i've never even had art made for/inspired by my fics ;-;;;; one day though. one day i am going to write something [clenches fist] so fucking good...

13. Have you ever co-written a fic?

several times! said fics will not be seeing the light of today, but yes! i love a good co-write!

14. What’s your all time favorite ship?

once again, like the new homie i will not be picking just one and you will simply have to deal with it LOL. i am extremely down bad for tony stark/bucky barnes, tony stark/t'challa, tony stark/stephen strange.. okay i'm tony-centric, fuckin sue me. anyways. i still really love sesshomaru/kagome, zuko/katara, harry potter/hermione granger, trevor/alucard/sypha, and now gojo/nanami. when i tell you i am fERAL ABOUT NANAGO—

15. What’s a fic you’d like to finish but don’t think you ever will?

Take Care (zutara, rated M), and several other zutara fics that i have put into a graveyard so that even though they're unlikely to be completed, they can still be appreciated!

16. What are your writing strengths?

mmm. this is a bit hard for me to answer because i feel like i could use improvement everywhere, always. i could probably use some more work in my dialogue though (just having more of it, i think). with conflict resolution as well - circling back to angst, i usually gloss over it because i want [my] characters to have nothing but good times and good endings. i need to be less wary of putting them through some shit, which i am working on!

anywayyy. my biggest strength is my prose!

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

up for debate, but personally my weakness is outlines. i try to use them but my brain does not like having "rules" when it comes to creating a story, even if i am the one to write them ;;

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in a fic?

i'm a native (american) english speaker, so this question feels.. odd? bc ~american~? but as a native english speaker, i absolutely don't mind at all. i love languages and i love letting them into my brain! i myself use words from different languages, especially in what i'm writing is based in another country/place of origin.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

inuyasha! no you cannot see it, it's lost in the ether!

20. Favorite fic you’ve written?

Real War is Far Easier (zutaraang, rated M) and Performance Issues (zutara, rated E), which was a gift to the wonderful @zutarawasrobbed! there's a whole universe there that nobody but the two of us know about and i can't wait for the day that everyone can laugh about it as much as we do LOL

∘⋆․⊹․∘⟡˖*⊹ *∘⋆∘⋆․⊹․∘⟡˖*⊹․⊹․∘⟡˖*⊹⊹․⊹․∘⟡

tagging: @nire-the-mithridatist @gemgirl28 @andthedicestopped and @fidget-scribbles ♥

[i-did-not-mean-to]

Really don't worry about taking a break in the things you're working on. Your creativity is something to be enjoyed and celebrated and other people are (and should be) understanding of that. Your enjoyment and well-being are much more important than putting out your art. You're a human being, not a machine!

Dear anon,

I've kept this message in my inbox to tide me over whenever I was getting overwhelmed.

Today is the day I will post it, so your wise, kind, and encouraging words can benefit all my writer (and artist) friends.

You are, of course, right, but...I am so afraid of letting people down. So I throw myself into it as if there was no tomorrow.

I've finished THAUC (and need to reread it)

I've finished Kinktober (and have written 6 additional stories for the 31st)

I have made some progress with my calendar fics (1,5/3)

My S&D count is at a whooping 54 (with 2 more written and 1 to write for the moment)

This would not have been possible without your message.

It would not have been possible without @cilil, @goschatewabn, @elentarial, @sortumavaara, @elanna-elrondiel, @lordoftherazzles, @laurfilijames, @linasofia, @scyllas-revenge, @the-red-butterfly, @fishing4stars, @ruiniel, @sleepysandwichguy, @polutrope, @last-capy-hupping and many more.

A special shoutout to @lathalea, @legolasbadass, and @middleearthpixie as well who check on me even when I don't deserve it.

It would not have been possible without friends checking on my sorry ass.

It would not have been possible without art, memes, fics, inspiration, HC discussions, and all the moments I was given a reason to smile when I could barely think straight.

It would not have been possible without my husband and his enduring support.

I want this to be very clear: Yes, I am prolific, and I am fast, but I am not doing this in a vacuum. I am not a brave, little genius or something. I am just a little woman with a cushy job and very fast fingers.

I am the very definition of a transformative works writer, I bathe in someone else's ideas, energy, and strength at all times. I am one of many. I am part of a community, and they hold me up when I am too tired to move my arms so I don't drown.

Thank you, dear anon, for being part of that community for me!

If you ever need anything, be sure that I will be there, because I am aware of what I owe my people for being alive right now.

Lots of love!

[jukeboxjackal]

toxic nat and reader break up and have so much tension until they hu at a dinner party

hey guys hey guys!! sorry haven’t been here for a while but like i think i decided i’m gonna answer all of my asks (2) and maybe prob start writing again! wooo!!!

okay so first things first

1. i will NOT be doing like a full hu, there will be themes yes but as aforementioned i don’t write smut

2. this is actually a great idea so i’m gonna give y’all a preview bc it’s really late and then i’ll edit and finish later

3. sorry for taking forever twin!!

I know you miss me.

toxic! nat x fem! reader

warnings: toxic behavior, more mentioned in the future. also the usual like cursing yap yap yap

“hey”

you whipped your head around, you recognized that voice. God awful but 𝗵𝗲𝗿 voice will always plague your mind. the woman who you’ve been avoiding all night.

she looked restless, almost like she actually 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥 you. ‘ha, fat fucking chance’ you thought. you debated if you actually wanted to talk to her, but she moved closer, so you knew you had to. and with a loud sigh you said:

“hi”

you mentally cursed yourself. ‘that was actually so lame, stand your ground (y/n), damn’. so you spoke again,

“what do you want natasha?” you sighed it out, you don’t even know why you’re talking to her again.

‘she’s not worth it’ ‘she never loved you’ ‘stop trying to convince yourself that she’ll ever change.’

but you know she will, she always does. ‘fuck it not today.’

you tried to turn back around, but she put a hand on your shoulder. you flinched.

“(y/n), i’m serious. don’t fucking walk away from me.” she just whispered out.

you looked back at her, and she looked a cross between pissed and so, so fucking sad.

“hey, this is clint’s party, just let me enjoy myself. i already told you i never wanted to see you again.” and you saw a flash of hurt and anger in her eyes. ‘why the fuck is she the mad one here?’

you both were at clint’s little get together, and you went outside for fresh air, but you guess she followed you out. you were happy, you hadn’t seen the team in a while, natasha always kept you away. and when they asked, you were always “sick” or “on a trip”. but now she was gone, and you finally got back in touch with them, but God, you could never muster up the strength and courage to tell them what had all happened.

natasha scoffed,

“enjoy yourself? or enjoy these other bitches? i’ve been looking at you all night, just to see you with carol, or my friends. 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦.” she spat that last part out.

you let out a dry laugh. “oh wow natasha, glad to see you haven’t changed. i have though, and now you can’t control me anymore.” you stared directly at her.

“oh please, you know damn well i didn’t do shit wrong. and you also know that you miss me, huh?” she moved closer to you.

“natasha, what the hell?” you looked around. she put her hand on your face though, softly.

“oh baby, i’m the only one for you.” “what happened was a mistake, but i promise you i have changed.” she whispered to you.

“oh bullshit, nat!” you had tears forming. “you just acted the same literally two seconds ago, stop trying to play me for a fool!” you were very much emotional now.

“and that’s why you still call me nat. you already know how much i appreciate you, and that you just can’t seem to get over me, huh?”

that was true, you hadn’t dated or talked to anyone in 4 months. but maybe that was just how impactful she was on you, that you’d been afraid to love again.

“shut up.”

“so it is true, (y/n) you haven’t changed a bit sweet girl.” natasha caressed your face.

you tried to pull away, but she had you against the wall. you could smell her sweet scent, which did NOT reflect her personality.

“just this once,” she whispered “be mine again?”

you felt too much, you just wanted it to be over.

you closed the distance between you both with a kiss.

———

you woke up in her bed again, but you swear next time will be different.

you know it will be.

when you she was dead asleep, you packed up and left.

[blanketskiess]

Oo! I'm not normally one to request things, but today I'm feelin it!

May I request mika comforting a super stressed out arashi? Or vice versa, whichever catches your fancy. School and work have me in a chokehold, and I need some fluffy comfort in my life.

I hope you have the loveliest of days!

Hi! This is such an adorable request. I’m a sucker for some good old narumika :) I hope work and school get better for you! I believe in you, just keep pushing through! Let me know what you think, and always feel free to request anything you’d like. I hope you have the loveliest of days too!

a/n: this can be read as romantic or platonic!

⋯ ✦ characters mika kagehira & narukami arashi

⋯ ✦ tags fluff, comfort, words of affirmation

⋯ ✦ summary arashi has been struggling to juggle every aspect of her life lately. good thing her mika-chan is there to comfort her about it :)

⋯ ✦ word count 800+

���༺✦✮✦༻∞　　∞༺✦✮✦༻✧

How was this even possible, she thought. There is absolutely no way that a human could possibly be expected to juggle fourteen school assignments, rehearsals, vocal training, interviews, and countless other responsibilities in one singular week. Arashi thinks it’s impossible—no, preposterous, even!

She sighs as she places her pencil down on the desk next to her paper. Her grades have been significantly decreasing the past few weeks. Maybe it’s the fact that Knights is steadily cruising up the popularity charts. Rehearsals have been getting longer; work related responsibilities have been getting frequenter, and stress has been getting higher. She can barely remember if she ate breakfast that morning, after filming an advertisement for a cosmetic company. Every day seemed like it was blurring into one. And the second she finished a load of work, more and more began to pile up. It was neverending; almodt exhausting—no, it WAS exhausting. She could feel her eyebags every time she rubbed her face in exhaustion, which almost never happened! Not only did Arashi not like feeling eyebags on her face, but she wouldn’t dare touch it with a full-face of makeup on. But as sleep haunts her conscience, she can’t help but rub her eyes, her cheeks and her forehead in a desperate attempt to keep herself focused and awake.

“Naru-chan?” A familiar voice graces Arashi’s ears.

“Yes? Oh, I’m so sorry Mika-chan. My mind just wandered off. Here, here, take another bite of your food! You need the energy.” With a haphazard smile, Arashi lifted Mika’s fork to his hand.

They always met at Café Cinnamon to chat, laugh, and have a sweet meal. It became a necessary experience that interweaved itself into their lives. This was their safe space, where it was only them. Not any stressors from work, school, or friends. Just them.

“Mmm, Naru-chan! Don’t be gettin’ so worried ‘bout zonin’ out n’ stuff. I do it allll the time. Say, what’s got ya so distracted?”

Mika takes the fork so graciously handed to him by Arashi and takes a bite of his food. A strawberry tart, to be exact.

“Mmm. I’ve just been very busy lately, Mika-chan. But don’t worry about it! Please, keep eating.” She smiles. The first thing she always thinks about is Mika’s feelings. The last this she wants is for him to be bent over backwards stressed about her.

“Hmmm. Been workin’ hard, ya say?” Mika takes another piece of his tart onto his fork, and moves it to Arashi’s mouth. She instinctually opens her mouth and takes the bite. “See! Ya never let me do that. Yer always grabbin’ the fork n’ puttin’ it in my mouth instead!” Mika pokes at her face innocently. “What’s goin’ on?”

Arashi is silent for a moment. If just for a moment, the world stops. She bites her lip to hold back tears that threaten to tear through the strength she built up. She holds words at the tip on her tongue back furiously, clutching on with every nerve in her body. But then she remembers who’s next to her.

“God, Mika-chan. I’ve just been incredibly stressed. Work has been far too much for me, especially being mixed with school… Extracurriculars… It’s like a constant weight on my chest and it feels terrible. I would just like a little break…” Arashi rubs her hands over her face, head leaning down onto the table in front of her.

Mika is silent for a second, before his hands land on Arashi’s shoulders and pull her backwards. He positions her head comfortably on his lap, fingers running through her locks.

“That sounds like a lot of work… But yer doin’ such a good job! Ya have to focus on yerself more, Naru-chan. It’s okay t’ feel burnt out. I feel like that a lot, I’ve realized! I used to work so many jobs at once, including Valkyrie and goin’ to school! There isn’t any shame in bein’ tired…” Mika comforts softly, still running his deft, soft fingers through her hair. Arashi just smiles, nuzzling her face into his lap.

“Thank you, Mika-chan. I love you so much.” She wraps her arms around his waist and buried her face in his stomach. He smiles, giggling softly, content that his Arashi was in his arms.

“I love ya too! ‘M always here for ya, okay? Yer so strong… Super pretty too!” He giggles again, and she laughs into his stomach. “Also, ya ain’t workin’ today, okay? It’s just gonna be me n’ you!”

Arashi hesitates, but soon nods. She knew she needed the break. She just needed that one extra push.

Mika continued to hold her, feed her his tart, and talk about pretty much anything under the sun. He adored her, and it always hurt him to know she wasn’t feeling good. Thankfully, he would be there for her through thick and thin, just as she would for him.