#a beautiful and slightly bittersweet story! I really enjoyed it

[aroaessidhe]

2024 reads / storygraph

The River Has Roots

poetic fable-like novella, reimagining of the twa sisters

about two inseparable sisters who spend their days singing to the willow trees on the banks of a magical river that flows out of faerie

when one rejects a human suitor to instead be with her fey lover, he takes revenge, threatening to separate them forever

arc from netgalley, out march 4!

[baepsays]

Cherry liqueur ⸻ Gojo Satoru.

INSPIRED BY THIS ART, BY: @/shimisstuff

cw: blood, to be more specific-period blood, oral sex, eating out (while reader is on their period), no use of specific pronouns, description of fem anatomy, fingering, m! masturbation, freak Satoru really, use of words like 'whore' 'slut' as a tease, use of terms of endearment, pussy slapping (sorry i love that shit), kind of some cum play :p, ye just nsfw stuff proceed with caution!, minors do not interact.

Gojo did not care for the color red. He really likes the color blue, as self centred as it may sound, he loves it. But even with his antipathy for the color red some of his most beloved things were colored red— like red velvet cake, strawberry jello, red macaroons always attract his attention first; something about red being a visually striking color which stimulates excitement or something — what he read. 

He particularly loved cherry pies. Beautiful crusty exterior and red gooey, sticky, bitter-sweet cherries inside. Anyone would think it is probably because he might like cherries. Which is not half wrong, he found his affinity for cherry desserts— specifically cherry pie and cherry liqueur cake, because his favorite red dessert is not always available at his disposal. And to frankly explain what is it? Your cunt, specifically when you're on your period. 

How did he find this— let's say unusual — affinity? It was very sudden, he was enjoying your saccharin taste on his tongue, nothing out of the ordinary. He truly enjoyed eating you out, savouring your taste way more than any average person may enjoy. He is the true definition of munch, this man could eat you, lick you, just smother his face in between your thighs for hours. That specific day you were really tired and he oh so kindly offered to perform oral on you to put you to sleep. He had cleaned you up in the bath, dressed you in your pajamas, laid you down on his plush bed, and ate you out like a starved man— a few mins in he suddenly tasted a new flavor spreading through his mouth. It was an uncannily identical flavor of cherry liqueur, a little less sweet but exactly bittersweet, slightly tart, overall very cherry.

You were too tired to even be conscious throughout the entire thing. You had passed out and it was only when he came up to catch a breath he realized that you started your period. Surprisingly it didn't deter him. He did go back in and finish you then cleaned you up once again, put on a pad in your underwear, cleaned up the sheets and himself. He particularly liked the look of himself covered in your blood reflecting back into his eyes. And the taste he could not forget or recreate. 

Since then he went on to practically begging you to let him taste you when you're bleeding. He seriously jumped up to the bed the day after that happened and went “please let me eat you out again.” 

And honestly you wouldn't say no, how can you ever deny your poor toru, then you realize the situation. That you're on your period and you had your period yesterday, this request of his is basically because he ate you out with arousal, blood and all things nasty. So it took him some serious convincing, begging, and a really shitty day where your cramps were hurting so bad that even the meds didn't help— to let him eat you out again blood and all. So he eagerly offered a massage, then some whispering in your ears about how good it'll feel and how it'll help with the pain. Long story short you gave in. And he became an obsessed vampire.

This brings us here, where there is a big thick towel under you, and you are on his bed. Naked, back arched, thighs engulfing his entire head, his white hair pushed back with his black headband. One time he was eating you out in similar circumstances with his hair down and he looked like a white cat who attacked a jar of jam. 

One of your hands clawed down on his shoulder, the other gripping the edge of the pillow under your head— trying to hold onto any semblance of sanity. 

“Ugh sweets. So sweet.” He rumbles in between your thighs right on your pussy. 

You were armed wordless, rid off of anything more than moans, grunt, sighs and whimpers. It did help that he pried your thighs off his head, with much reluctance—you best believe he would not die anywhere rather than right between your legs, breathless — he sits up, the sounds of his breathing heavy to even your senseless ears. He puts one of your ankles up on his shoulders, the other leg he hikes up to wrap around his waist. With a smear of red all across his cheeks, chin, and lips, he starts licking a stripe up from your ankle towards your thighs.

“Such a messy fucking whore for your toru right angel?” He says as he reaches your thighs and bites down lightly. 

“No answer? Huh. Have I slutted you out too hard? Hmm?” He lets out a slight chuckle, then continues to lick your inner thighs clean. He gathers all the blood and cum glistening around there, neat and blank to paint all over again. 

“P-please toru.” 

“Please what sweets?” He heaves out, clearly he is also having a hard time over here. But for the sake of prolonging your empty hazed up state of mind, asking and begging him to let you find your climax— that's how he found his own pleasure. 

“Need more.” you push yourself up on your forearms to look back at him, staring up at you with both your legs now hanging from his shoulder, eyes glowing in the abyss between your thighs.

“More? I give you my all and you still want more? My little insatiable whore.” His hand comes down to slap your clit, he gives it a second and puts down two more slaps right on your entrance. And you give out a loud screeching noise and fall back down on the bed. Gripping on his hair, headband, his hand which just slapped your pussy—now rubbing and tugging on your clit. 

“Honestly sweets say the word and I'll put the world at your feet.” He frees his hand from your grip, landing another little slap on your clit then slowly sliding a finger inside you. While all you can do is frail around and jerk from the shivers running down your body. His other hand, pulls his dick out of his boxers, then goes to gather some blood and cum dripping down your entrance and aids it as lube to jerk off himself. 

“MORE SATORU!” 

“More? Aw but I am giving you my all sweetheart, you want more? More of me? My fingers? Anything? Tell me. Say it. Ask me, beg me. Look me in the eyes and command me.” And you do, somehow bring yourself to look at him. With a huge grin adorning his face, his fangs on display, ready to suck up every drop of blood you bless him with.

“Put another finger in toru. Please make me come.” 

“As you wish and more, angel.” And his grin widens as he pushes, another finger in. He really does give you what you wish and more — because he puts a third finger in you, then turns all three of them up to find your spongy walls with the rough pads of his finger. He speeds up the other hand running up and down on his cock as he finds the said sweet spot. He moves both his hands at a matched speed, imaging your walls gripping on his dick while he thrusts in and out of you with the said dick, instead of his fingers. 

You don't have much in you, words or patience to hold back and time your climax with his. “ I am gonna cum toru, I am gonna- please. Please. Oh my goodness, please Satoru.” you cry out, begging him to let you cum.

“Do it sweets. Come all over my- Ha. Fingers. Come on. Be my good little whore. Won't you sweetheart?” He talks you into your climax and you come undone on his fingers, gripping down on all three of his fingers, but his movements do not stop. The squelching noise mixed with your moans and his pants are obscene. Maybe not as obscene as your cum mixed up with your blood. 

He fingers you through it all, until you finish and even when you're getting aftershocks— he does slow down and focuses more on pressing down on your walls than ramming through you. Once you stabilize a little he pulls his fingers out, which elicits a whimper out of you. 

He sits up again, he changes the hand gripping his cock. He positions his cock on your cunt, and proceeds to jerk himself harder, chasing his own climax, with the hand he used to just finger you. Your cum and blood— sticky and coated all over his cock. 

You lean back up to grip onto his neck, your foreheads touching, panting and whimpering into each other's mouth—tongues twirling around each other, you taste your cum and blood on him. Metallic and nasty, but you'd never hold back from giving him everything, even if it means kissing him in such a feral state. 

You lick the blood clean from the corner of his mouth, and that does it for him. He shoots ropes and ropes of cum all over your cunt. On your entrance, on your stomach, on your inner thighs— mixing up with the previously mixed in cum and blood. And he moans into your mouth throughout it all. Eyes shut, orbs of glowing blue hidden behind all that red smeared across his face.

“You are just the best dessert ever.” he says upon calming down a little and looking right into your eyes, then looking down at the mess between you two.

“Should I get another towel? Come on my dick next.” Nevermind. Maybe you two are capable of much more obscenities.

Safe to say, maybe Satoru is not so apathetic towards the color red. Especially when it tastes so sweet to him. 

a/n: dividers by @/omi-resources & @/sister-lucifer. wasn't gonna write then aashi (@fushitoru) beloved sent that ask and how can i ever deny her <3 AND THANK YOU SM TO SHIMI FOR LETTING ME USE THE ART!!! please check out more of her art! it is so beautiful!!

to access more of my works-click here.

[pitchsidestories]

Just a little crush II Kim Little x Beattie!Reader

masterlist I word count: 3192

a/n: sorry, It's a lengthy one, but we hope you still enjoy it. ❤️

“Lee, who’s that girl talking to Jen?”, Kim Little asked Arsenal’s vice-captain while licking her lips nervously. They and some other family and friends gathered for a party to send Jen Beattie off who was going to California to join Bay FC.

There was something about that young woman standing next to her friend which was making her feel and think things the midfielder never did before, but she didn’t want to dwell on them any further as it would lead to much more questions and less clear answers.

Amused Leah Williamson raised her eyebrows:” Oh Kimmy, you don’t recognize her? It’s Jennis baby sister, she’s fresh out of Edinburgh University!”

“That’s not Jen’s sister! She looked so much younger last time.”, the Scottish woman shook her head in disbelief.

Still smiling the England captain replied: “Yes, it’s, she’s 25 now.”

“Oh wow.”, Kim muttered.

Noisily Beth Mead took part in their conversation:” Who are you two gossiping about? I want to know.”

“Jens little sis.”, Leah answered with a smug smile on her face.

“She turned into a real beauty, right?”, the blonde forward winked watching Kim turning red.

Much to her dismay the defender noticed it:” think our captain would agree with you.”

“Stop it.. I’m not.”, Kim explained slightly embarrassed.

“Having a little crush?”, Beth teased her teammate grinning.

Tuning in Steph Catley chirmed:” Oh Kim, that’s so cute.”

“I don’t have a crush.”, their captain disagreed. She felt relived when Jen came along distracting from the gossiping football players.

“Hi guys, remember my little sister?”, the tall Scottish defender asked.

Cheerful you greeted them:” Hi, everyone.”

“Hello great to see you again. Even though the reason is kind of sad.”, Beth responded with a sad smile.

Empathetically you nodded:” No, I agree but shamefully can’t wait to visit her soon in Cali.”

“You all act like I’m disappearing forever.”, your big sister laughed. Even though you knew the farewell felt equally as bittersweet to her.

Quickly Lia Wälti hugged her: “We can’t help how we’re feeling, Jen. It’s a big loss for us and a big win for Bay FC.”

“You girls are the sweetest.”, Jen whispered, she was so grateful for the friendships she made during her time at Arsenal.

Big eyed Steph Catley responded:” I’ll miss my favourite neighbour.”

“I’ll miss living next to you too, Steph.”, the defender answered truthfully.

This was the moment you found the time to talk to Kim directly to express your gratitude towards her:” Thanks for letting me stay at your place for a few weeks, Kim.”

“You’re welcome. Now that your sister can’t let you stay anymore.”, the older woman waved it off.

“I really appreciate it.”

With a small smile the midfielder told you in a reassuring tone:” You can stay as long as you want. Don’t worry about it.”

“I’m sure you’ll have a great time together.”, Jen intervened confidently.

You gave your sister a nod: “I’m sure we’ll.“

As the evening progressed, the atmosphere became more and more relaxed. You felt right at home with your sisters teammates who happily shared stories about Jen with and made sure your glass was never empty.

It was only after midnight that Kim appeared right in front of you, reaching out a hand towards you: “Come, I’ll get you home.“

“Now?“, you asked, surprised by how drunk you sounded already.

Kim just raised an eyebrow but did not comment on it: “Yes, it’s late.“

“Bye, Jen!“, you shouted across the room to your sister while Kim helped you into your coat.

With one swift motion, Jen came over and pulled you into a tight hug: “Bye, you two.“

Luckily, the way home in Kims car was short. You were by sleep and found it difficult to keep your eyes open. Once Kim led you into the guest room of her apartment, you let yourself fall onto the bed with a relieved sigh. Kims dog curled into a ball at your feet.

“This is really cozy.“, you mumbled, burying your face into the soft pillows.

Kim watched you from the doorway: “Glad you feel at home here.“

“Good night, Kim.“

The corners of her mouth quirked up as she closed the door behind her and you fell into a dreamless sleep.

You woke up early the next morning and decided to make coffee for yourself and Kim. The coffee was just done brewing as Kim came back from walking her dog. Beaming, you handed her a mug: “Morning, this one is for you.“

She gave you a surprised look first but then took the coffee from you: “Oh. Thank you.“

“You’re welcome. Also I hope I didn’t say anything weird when we went home last night.“, you said as you sat down at the kitchen table together. You took a sip of coffee to hide your reddening cheeks behind the cup.

“No. Like what?“, Kim asked inquiringly.

You decidedly ignored her question and only reacted to the first part: “Oh good.“

“You almost immediately fell asleep.“, she explained plainly.

Changing the topic, you suggested: “Do you like Pizza? When I’m done with my interview, I could get some on the way back.“

Finally, a small smile appeared on the football players face: “Sure, why not?“

“Okay, great.“

With a glance toward the kitchen clock, Kim announced: “I have to leave for training now. So, see you later?“

“Yes, see you.“, you smiled at her.

Just before Kim walked out, she paused for a moment: “Oh, wait.“

“Uhm, yes?“, you patiently looked at her as she walked back into the kitchen.

“I forgot to give you the keys.“, she said, carefully tossing them in you direction.

You caught them with a grin: “Right. Thank you, Kim.“

“See you later. Good luck with your interview.”, Kim replied.

You were almost at the door when you turned around to face her beaming with hopefulness: “Thanks. Have fun in training!”

During training Kim warmed up with Cloé Lacasse. The Canadian striker asked her curiously:” So you got yourself a roommate, Kim?”

“I was more or less assigned a roommate, Cloé. She was supposed to stay with Jen, but she decided to leave us.”, the Arsenal captain explained with a deep sigh.

With a mischievous smile on her lips Leah came to a stop right next to the older women: “The most important part is though that Kim has a Girl crush on said roommate.”

Annoyed by her comment Kim rolled her eyes at the defender:” I don’t have a girl crush, Leah.”

“Kim is straight too.”, the Canadian forward added.

“Right.”, the Scottish midfielder nodded. Although deep inside of her something didn’t sit right with it although it has been true for so many years at this point. Why did your presence make her question things she thought she knew about herself.

This didn’t impress Leah in the least: “You should have been there Cloé when they met at Jens Farewell Party.”

“Well, I can’t wait to hopefully meet her soon.”, Cloé answered politely.

Frustrated Kim intervened:” You guys are making a way too big deal out of it.”

“If you need to chat though we’re here for you, Kim.”, Beth offered warmly.

Stubbornly the Scottish woman shook her head: “I don’t need to chat. She’s just staring at my place.”

“Alright, just saying.”, the England forward mumbled.

“It’s not a big deal.”, her captain repeated in a serious tone which made obvious that she was done with talking for now.

Reading the signs Leah decided:” Let’s get back to training.”

Finally, Kim thought relieved as they started to move again, distracting from the whirlwind, which was currently inside of her, giving her a peace of mind for the moment.

In the early evening you returned to Kim’s place announcing cheerfully:” Hi, I got the pizza.”

“Thanks. How did your interview go?”, she wanted to know from you.

As you were setting up the table for dinner, you told her about it:” Not too bad, actually. They said my writing is promising but they asked me if I really want to stay focused on women’s football.”

Interested the Scottish woman looked up to you:” What did you say to them?”

“That I don’t want to change my focus, I love writing about women’s football and the culture surrounding it.”, you responded.

Proudly Kim remarked:” Your sister would have done the same in your position.”

“She would’ve, right?”, you asked her cautiously.

Kim nodded once with conviction: “Absolutely.“

“There’s still such a long way to go… although the recent success helped a bit.“, you thought out loud, a sad smile tugging on your lips.

“You don’t have to tell me.“, Kim replied with her gaze trained on the kitchen table.

You could sense that the football player felt a similar way about the topic. Your curiosity was piqued so you continued: “For you and Jen it must have been an amazing progress to live through.“

“Yes. We’re lucky to be part of this generation. Selling out stadiums is something that a few years ago we thought was impossible.“, she explained calmly.

You were reminded of your sisters first football games. She was not getting paid to play yet and the number of fans was ridiculously low compared to this season. You bit your lip: “Yes, I remember that too.“

“I appreciate that you want to keep focusing on womens football.“

Hearing her say that made your heart flutter for a brief moment. But you were also reminded how quickly the atmosphere had changed. You sighed and with all the enthusiasm you could muster, said: “We should eat the pizzas now before they get too cold.“

“You’re right.“

As you both sat down, taking the first slices of the pizza, you admitted: “But I do love talking about football with you.“

“We can continue at another time if you want.“, Kim suggested a little more relaxed.

“Yes, I’d like that very much.“

“Me too.“

“Great.“

Kim put her slice of pizza down and looked at you thoughtfully: “We’re playing at home on the weekend. You should come watch.“

“Yes, I’ll be there.“, you politely smiled back at her.

Kims focus had already shifted back to her pizza: “Great.“

 The stadium was starting to fill on the following Sunday while players walked out to warm up. You were engrossed in a conversation with your friend Emily who after a long time of convincing had finally agreed to come to the game with you. You completely missed that Cloe Lacasse walked out on the pitch with Kim and curiously nodded in your direction: “So that’s her?“

“Yes, that’s her.“, Kim replied, a frown on her face as she spotted you close to the field.

“Is that her girlfriend? The one who’s standing next to her?“, the Canadian wanted to know.

Kim shrugged and shook her head: “She didn’t say anything about a girlfriend.“

Still, her gaze lingered on the two of you for a little longer.

The game ended with an easy win for Arsenal. Apart from the goals of Cloe and Alessia Russo, Kim also converted a penalty. The atmosphere in the stadium after the game was great and you immediately felt at home. However, the mood between the players on the pitch was less elated.

Leah Williamson bumped her captain with her shoulder: “Kim? You’re even quieter than usual.“

“What? I’m just focused.“, the midfielder replied, pulling away from her teammate.

The younger player couldn’t ask any further as you hugged the Scottish woman and sung:” Kim, you had a fantastic game, Kim!” Seeing the England captain you added blushing:”Hi Lee.”

Smiling Leah couldn’t help but to notice the height difference between you two, you were almost as tall as Jen while your roommate was fairly small: “Our skipper was great, right?”

“Yes, she definitely was.”, with that said you let Kim down.

Much to your surprise she didn’t look happy despite the comfortable win:”Thanks.”

The midfielder didn’t say anything further instead she left the room and left you clueless. Puzzled you turned around to look at her teammate: “Well, that was a bit strange do you know what’s going on, Leah?”

“I think she’s a bit jealous.”, the blonde replied seriously.

Baffled by that you let out a shaky laugh:” Jealous? Kim?”

Leah grinned: “Yeah.”

“Why?”

“Because you brought your girlfriend.”, the defender replied, crossing her arms in front of her.

“My girlfriend? Emily is just a friend!”, you corrected her, shaking your head in disbelief.

Sceptical Leah rose an eyebrow at you:” Oh, is she?”

“Yes, wait, did Kim think that Em was my girlfriend?”, you questioned her.

Thoughtfully Leah responded:” Maybe.”

“I need to talk to her.”, you decided.

With an empathetic smile on her lips the blonde held you back: “Maybe not now.”

You listened to her advice, so you went back to Emily and brought her home before making your way slowly to Kim’s home. In your mind it already was yours too.

On her car ride home Jen phone called the Arsenal captain:” Hi mate, great game!”

“Thanks, Jen. How’s California?”, Kim asked her.

“It’s been really great so far., the defender sounded happily before turning more serious, but you texted that you needed to talk?”

Earnestly Kim told her: “Yes. About your sister. Did you know that she’s dating someone?”

“What? No, she’s single.”, she mumbled convinced.

“What do you mean? She brought someone to our game today?”, the midfielder frowned.

Quickly Jen explained: “Yes Emily, she’s just a friend of her, Kimmy.”

“Are you sure? They seemed close?”, Kim almost felt something like relief by her former teammates reply. Although she didn’t dare to trust the news yet.

“Kim, I’m sure of that besides Emily has a boyfriend.”, Jen chuckled.

“If you say so.”

“But you can ask my sister again. Kim are you jealous?”, the defender wanted to know from her friend.

Offended Kim scoffed at her:” Why would I be jealous? I was just wondering why she’d stay with me when she’s got a girlfriend here.”

“Now you know. I need to go to training, hope to hear from you soon, mate?” After a few goodbyes they ended the phone call and the Arsenal captain tried to focus on the drive instead of the turmoil which was inside her.

When the door closed behind Kim, you looked up from the food you were cooking. While the Arsenal players showered and debriefed at the stadium, you had hurried to get home and surprise your housemate with a freshly cooked dinner. “Kim? Hi, I started cooking…“, you greeted her.

The football player raised her eyebrows in surprise: “You’re already here?“

You nodded: “Yes, Emily had to go back to her boyfriend who has a bit of a cold. Otherwise we might have gone to a pub. Do you want a drink to celebrate the win?“

“No, thanks. I usually don’t drink after games.“, Kim answered plainly, putting her bag down next to the kitchen table.

You grimaced: “Oh, right. Sorry. So water?“

“Sure. What are you cooking?“, Kim asked, looking over your shoulder at the food while you poured two glasses of water.

You smiled while handing her one of the glasses: “Some pasta dish. It’s one of the few things I can cook.“

The football player nodded impressed and smirked slightly: “That’s more than your sister can cook.“

“That’s true.“

You both sat down to enjoy your home-cooked meal, talking about the game again even though Kim kept her answers short. You took the empty plates and set them down at the sink: “I guess I’ll let you sleep now.“

“You don’t have to. I can’t sleep yet anyway.“, Kim replied to your surprise.

You slowly turned back to her, biting down a nervous smile: “Okay but you know you can just ask me on a date instead of running away and sulking after the match, right?“

Her eyes widened in shock: “Wait, what are you talking about?“

“Leah said you were jealous because of Emily and you really don’t need to be.“, you shrugged, trying to keep the nonchalance in your voice.

“I wasn’t jealous.“, she protested.

You looked back at the dishes in the sink, waiting: “Good.“

“That’s ridiculous.“

“Kim…“, you started but when you looked back to her, she had already bridged the gap between you two and pressed her lips to yours. You gasped into the kiss: “What?“

“That was a mistake. I’m sorry.“, she sighed, shaking her head in a mix of confusion and guilt.

She wanted to turn away from you but you grabbed her wrist: “No, please, do it again.“

There was an urgency in your voice that made Kim search for your eyes: “Are you sure?“

“Yes.“

“But… okay.“

She kissed you again, more patiently now. This time you could savour the taste of her lips on yours and only then you realized that she had to stand on her tiptoes to reach you. You were so charmed by this that you could not stop yourself from smiling.

As you both pulled away, you could see an uncertainty in Kims eyes. It was definitely not the kiss, you could feel that you both enjoyed it. Another thougth raced through your head: “Am I your first woman? Don’t worry, we have time. When is your next free day? Maybe we could go to a restaurant.“

“I have tomorrow off.”, she told you straight away.

A relieved sigh escaped your mouth:” Perfect, with a smirk you continued, also, you’re not a bad kisser, captain.”

“I never said I was.”, Kim laughed, you could tell some weight fell off her shoulders.

“No just saying.”, you shrugged.

The midfielder put a loose string of hair behind her ear:” Thanks.”

A month later Kim and you had a video call with your sister. The first thing you told her was that you two became a couple. “You two are dating?! You better take good care of her little sis!”, Jen warned you in a jokingly tone.

“What?! Me?!”, you huffed.

Grinning the defender nodded: “Yes, you heard me.”

“Wow.”, you ran a free hand through your hair.

Meanwhile your girlfriend seemed to have ignored that part of the conversation as she reassured Jen:” Don’t worry, I’m taking good care of your sister.”

“I can already see that.”, your big sister observed amused.

“Jen, you’re a terrible big sister.”, you teased her.

“I’m the best big sister.”, she countered quickly.

“Sure.”, you rolled your eyes at her.

“Stop it you two.”, Kim demanded in her captain voice.

Smiling Jen answered:” No, get used to it, Kimmy. You’re part of the Beattie family now.”  

“Oh yes.”, you added, while giving the midfielder a kiss on her blushing cheek.

Coming to London to move in with one of your sister’s oldest friends was one of the best things that could had happen to you.

As for Kim she never knew she could fall for a woman until you came into her life, but the midfielder was very happy to have let her change her mind about that. Turned out you were more than just a little crush.

[bitchyycapricorn]

Warm Tea For The Ill

•Remus Lupin x Established Relationship Fem!Reader•

Masterlist

Word Count: 3k+

Synopsis: You and Remus tell the others you’re feeling ill on a nice day in order to get some down time. Sirius is worried about you both and just wants to make sure you’re ok.

Background: Y/N’s animagus is a bunny, hence the nickname “bunny” and her marauder nickname is “Thumper”. Takes place during 7th year (though not specifically mentioned).

Warnings: Smut, oral (f receiving), face riding (f), unprotected sex, slight dom!Remus, caught having sex, praise kink, fluff

AN:Not edited also my story is deleting parts and glitching out soooo…

“Shhh,” Remus hushed you with a small laugh, holding open the door to the boys dormitory so you could slip inside. Both you and Remus had decided to play ill today in order to get some alone time while everyone else was out at the Black Lake. Knowing the boys and their love for trouble mixed with water, your time together should go completely undisturbed. Normally alone time between you and Remus looked like reading a book together while snuggled up on his bed since the chances of someone busting down the door was so high. The fact that everyone was a good ways away and completely distracted from coming back to bother you and Remus gave you butterflies. 

You shuffled into Remus’s room making your way over to his bed, which sat to the right of the room and closest to the door, as Remus quickly shut the door. The thought of being alone with you overtook Remus’s mind causing him to completely forget to lock the door behind him in the process. Letting out a sigh of relief, Remus was quick to make his way behind you so he could press his body against yours. His face nuzzling into the crook of your neck as his lips left soft wet kisses against your exposed skin.

“It feels like bloody forever since we’ve been alone together bunny,” Remus cooed. A soft moan escaped your lips at the feeling, making him smile against your skin. “You smell so good darling, hell you look beyond good. Has me wondering if you taste as good as you look.” He murmured between the kisses he was planting on your shoulder.

“Remus, we’ve been alone together for less than five minutes and you’re already talking about shagging me.” You jokingly scolded whilst bringing your hand up to cup his jaw on the side he was kissing your shoulder.

“I can’t help it,” Remus whined. “You look so bloody gorgeous in my sweater.” His head turned slightly so he could kiss your palm while he spoke. He muttered a few soft praises into your hand before finally shuffling you both forward and onto the bed. 

The light yet inescapable nudges caused you to tumble forward onto Remus’s soft sheets and let out a small “numph” as your stomach made impact with the mattress. Remus let out a small laugh and helped to turn you around onto your back, You let out a huff as you scooted up to lean against the bed’s headboard. “That was mean,” you laugh as Remus begins to crawl over to your sitting figure. His much taller frame looms over yours despite him being on all fours in front of you.

“I just want to cuddle you up and kiss you until your lips are swollen. That’s kinda hard when you’re standing up Y/N.” He laughed as he pressed a kiss against your lips. You could both taste and smell the dark chocolate that lingered on his lips from earlier. Along with the faint scent of old books and morning dew radiating off the rest of his body. You smiled at the smell thinking back to the few times you’d smelled amortentia. It always smelled like Remus, and occasionally, if you were lucky, it sometimes gave off the aroma of Remus’s hair after he showered. 

Remus was also enjoying the sweet scent that radiated off your warm body. Your natural smell of (…), (…), and (…) were a reminder that he really did have someone in this world. For Remus, amortentia was a bittersweet topic and memory. Though it aided him in the reminder of you and all your beauty it was also a reminder of the way his father forced him to smell it at the mere age of five in hopes of confirming Remus still had someone out there for him. Which Remus thought now was silly, since that simply was not how amortentia worked. 

Your hands grasping the bottom of Remus’s sweater are what pulled him from his thoughts and back into your overwhelmingly calming presence. You had a sort of warmth to you that constantly kept Remus grounded no matter what memory crept into his mind. It was the way your warm lips were pressing into his neck and causing him to moan and whimper that reminded him he was right where he was supposed to be. 

Your hands continued to tug at Remus’s sweater until it was over his head and on the ground. The new sensation of cold air against Remus’s skin caused him to shiver. He was now hyper aware of the contrast between the temperature of the room and your burning hands as they traced over the many scars that littered his back and chest. A scratchy moan left his throat as you traced your index finger down the length of his stomach scar and towards the waistband of his black uniform pants.

“You’re always so eager to take care of me bunny, why don’t I take care of you for a bit?” Remus hummed as you toyed with his waistband. 

You pulled away from his neck to look into his pretty brown eyes. “Rem,” you began, fidgeting nervously at the thought. “I would really like that, but I don’t want you to feel like this isn’t about you too.” 

Remus chuckled under his breath, raising his hand to your face so he could brush the fallen strands of hair out of your eye. “I get more pleasure than I think you realize when I’m buried between your thighs.” His lips connected with yours for a moment before continuing, “I get high off the feeling of your legs thrown over my shoulders as they squeeze around my head everytime I touch the right place….” Another kiss. “I love it when you hover over my face and allow yourself to fuck my tongue at the pace that feels best for you little bunny.” His lips were so soft against yours. “It makes me so bloody hard to feel your body trembling.” His voice was seductively sweet as he spoke against your lips, something he did when he was feeling confident. 

His words made your body weak and your mind malfunction, only allowing a small “please,” to escape your lips. It was now Remus’s turn to attack your neck with wet kisses and light red bite marks which almost certainly would leave small purple bruises on your soft skin. You knew that Remus thoroughly enjoyed marking you up as the full moon approached, but you also knew that was at least a week and a half away leaving him in a limbo between having sweet passionate sex, and having rough scandalous sex. 

Remus’s hands danced at the hem of your top signaling that it was now your turn to remove your, well Remus’s, sweater. Instinctively, you raised your arms so Remus could tug the soft material up your torso and over your head. “I have a feeling I’m never getting this sweater back,” Remus teases, sitting up and examining the maroon material in his hand. 

“You can have it back for a little while, but only so it will smell like you again. Then you have to return it,” You tease back, taking the shirt from him. 

“Return? Love, that’s my jumper,” Remus shook his head as he laughed. He took the material back from you but only to toss it to the side. “Not that it matters though darling. I don’t want either of us wearing it right now anyways.” A small giggle escaped your lips at his words making him smile even wider than he was before. He brought his hand up to your right cheek, stroking your jaw with his thumb. “Lay down and relax for me pretty girl,” Remus mumbled as he captured your lips between his own. 

“I can’t lay down if you keep snogging me,” You hum, pulling breathlessly away from the kiss. A small pout settled in on Remus’s face as he shuffled backwards so he could pull you by your legs into a lying position. A gasp left your mouth as your head made contact with his pillow. A smirk played at Remus’s lips while his eyes racked up and down your partially exposed body. 

“This has ought to go,” Remus murmured as his hands found their way to the zipper of your skirt, slowly pulling it off your flushed body. He let out a groan of relief as the skirt slipped past your foot and onto the floor, enjoying the sight of you in just your bra and panties. “These especially have to go,” his voice quivered slightly as he feverishly reached behind your back to unhook your bra. The bulge in his pants becoming increasingly more tight at the sight of your exposed tits.

Remus let out another throaty groan as he positioned himself between your legs so his upper body was hovering over yours. His head dipped down to pick up where he left off earlier, trailing hot kisses down your neck and towards your swollen breast. You let out a few whimpers as Remus’s lips danced across your now exposed chest. His right hand began to roam up and down the curve of your waist while he used the other to prop himself up. His fingers traced patterns onto your skin, dipping between your thighs occasionally before pulling back out to travel up your stomach. 

His lips grazed the swell of your breast making you moan. You could feel him smile against your skin before he used his tongue to slowly circle the skin around your nipple. The sensation pulled a small gasp from your lips as you pushed your chest upwards involuntarily. 

You let out a whine as you grasped Remus’s hair. “Remus please,” you begged. His tongue grazed the underside of your nipple before he took the hard bud between his lips, slowly sucking on the bundle of nerves as you pushed his face deeper into your tit. The feeling of his mouth on you sent shocks of pleasure coursing through your body like an electric shock. You allowed yourself to absorb the waves of pleasure while also focusing on the way his finger tips danced across your lower abdomen. His mouth would occasionally switch between nipples, always leaving a train of kisses in the switching process. Your hands stayed messily tangled in his hair, helping guide his head to the place you wanted him.

Soon you found yourself lightly pushing his head downwards. Desperately wanting to feel his mouth where you needed him most. Remus was quick to pick up on this, since he redirected his trail of kisses down your stomach. Occasionally he would pause to bite the tender flesh before placing a gentle kiss over the damage. His hot trail of kisses was messy, but led where it needed to. Remus’s lips now hovered over the soft fabric covering your lower half. His head dipping downwards so he can place a kiss at the lining of your underwear, before taking it between his teeth. He pulls forward again slightly while snaking his hands under your ass to help lift your hips. His upper body pulls backwards in the process, allowing for him to edge the soft fabric down your thighs and off your legs. 

“I might just have to keep these,” Remus smirked as he held up your panties before tossing them to the floor with the rest of your clothes. His hands slowly traveled back down your body and to your waist so he could help sit you up. You eyed him curiously at the motion, but he only gave you a sly smile in response. He lowered himself onto his back beside you before grabbing your hips once again so he could pull your body over his. He minivered you both so your knees were placed on both sides of his head. His arms coming from behind to wrap around your thighs. 

Remus helped ease you down so your heat hovered just above his face. “Come on bunny,” he cooed. “Ride my face.” You let out a soft moan as you fully lowered yourself onto his tongue, jutting your hips forward at the sensation of his tongue on your clit. You circled your hips slowly, a warm tingly feeling began to bubble up in your stomach as you did so. 

Remus’s grip tightened on your thigh as he helped guide your body forward and then backwards again. He reveled in the feeling of your wet heat as it slid up and down his tongue. He soaked up the feeling of your thighs trembling around his head, squeezing together each time he pressed his tongue flat against your clit. He pulled your body in closer, burying his face as deep in you as he possibly could. Small whimpers and long moans tumbled from your swollen lips as you grinded into your boyfriend's face. 

Within minutes your clit was becoming more and more sensitive as Remus drew circles around the nerve bundle with his tongue. The sensation makes you tremble as you feel yourself growing closer to your high by the second. 

Remus takes advantage of your closeness by slowly moving his hands up your thighs and to your hips. His hands lingered on your hips for a moment before drawing back and harshly grabbing your ass with a loud smack. Your body jutted forward at the sudden impact, the sensation of the slap flooding your senses making you gasp. Remus’s name began repeatedly spewing from your lips as the coil in your stomach snapped. A flood of relief and pleasure washed over your shanking figure as Remus helped you ride out your high from below. 

Exhaustion took over moments later causing you to fall back to Remus’s side once more. A shiver ran through your body as the heat your body had just been previously generating began to subside. Remus lifted his covers up and over both your naked bodies to help warm you up again. You rolled onto your side, facing the door, while Remus cuddled up into your backside. His arm snaked around your waist while he pushed his hips into yours. 

You arched your back with a soft moan at the feeling of his erection being pressed up against your ass. Remus leaned over you slightly so he could pepper kisses against the top of your shoulder and down your arm as he helped you grind yourself into him. “You want me to fuck you from behind bunny?” He moaned, biting into your shoulder softly.

“Y-yes please,” You whimpered, still slightly drowsy from your orgasm. Remus hummed at your response, removing his hand from your waist so he could line himself up at your entrance. He slowly ran the tip of his cock between your fold making you both shiver. Teasingly, he pushed his tip into you, before pulling out again slowly. You let out a small whine wanting Remus to fill you up already. “Remus…please,” you whimpered. 

“So needy,” Remus snickered before fully pushing into you. You let out a soft cry of relief at the feeling, circling your hips into his. Remus began thrusting into you slowly, wanting to take in the feeling of you around his cock for as long as he possibly could. His hands traveled up and down your body, traveling upwards so he could squeeze your tit occasionally. “Ah fuck Y/N,” Remus groaned as he began to pick up speed. “Look at you taking my cock so well.” His words made your body tremble, as soft moans spilled from your lips. Remus kissed his way up your neck and to your ear so he could whisper soft praises to you while he fucked into you mercilessly. 

You could feel his cock buried deep in you, sliding in and out of your dripping heat. Your ass bouncing everytime his hips snapped into yours. Your legs shaking violently at the feeling of his cock rubbing against your g-spot. Your breathing was heavy and so was Remus’s. His stomach muscles flexed with each thrust into you. His shakey moans and low groans told you he was enjoying every inch of your body. 

Remus could feel himself nearing closer to his high at the exact moment the handle to the door began to jiggle. Both you and Remus froze, pulling the covers up and over your shoulders to hide the fact you weren’t wearing anything. Your clothes were on the opposite side of the bed to the door, meaning if one of the boys just popped in they wouldn’t see. 

The door creaked open slightly revealing a blob of messy black hair. Sirius poked his head in to look at what he believed to be “sick” Y/N and Remus. “Hey, I just wanted to check on you guys,” Sirius said with a small sympathetic smile. 

“We’re doing alright, thanks Sir-“ you let out a small groan at the feeling of Remus thrusting out and then back into you lightly. 

“You both look bloody awful,” Sirius chuckled, scanning your red sweaty faces. “You both look like you’ve got a fever, do you need to go to the infirmary?” Remus thrusted into you again, causing yet another gasp to escape your lips, which you tried to cover up with a small cough. 

“We’re alright mate, just a bit under the weather. Our naps been helping though,” Remus replied, offering Sirius a smile. He had begun to pick up a steady pace now, thrusting in and out of you slowly. Your breathing picked up slightly, as you tried to keep down your noise level. 

“You alright Y/N?” Sirius asked, eyeing your shaky figure. 

“Y-yeah just a bit..ugh” you cut yourself off with a moan, feeling Remus’s fingers suddenly drawing small circled on your clit. “Fuck, sorry..I-um, I just have..have the j-jitters.” You huffed out, feeling a knot building up in your stomach for the second time that day. Waves of pleasure continue to course through your body as Remus keeps up his steady thrusts. 

“Do you want me to bring you a warm cup of tea from the hall?” Sirius asked as he observed the way your body was shaking slightly. You both made eye contact for a moment before you were forced to screw them shut at the feeling of your orgasm hitting you. You could feel your thighs squeeze together around Remus’s hand as he continued to lightly rub your clit through your high. You let out a few soft moans, before finally collecting yourself enough to meet Sirius' eyes again. 

It didn’t last long, since you could feel Remus begin to twitch inside you. His cock slowly draws out of you, before harshly pushing back in a few more times. Each thrust got harder and sloppier before the feeling of Remus filling you up with cum overtook your senses. Your eyes fluttered closed again as you let out another soft moan.

“Y/N…I’m going to go grab you some tea….Just stay right there…” Sirius' face turned from one of concern to sheer worry, genuinely believing that you were extremely sick. 

“T-Thank you p-padfoot,” You groaned as Remus pulled out of you. His cum dripped out of you and down the back of your thighs in the process. Sirius shut the door quickly and you could hear him scurry down the hall. “Remus what the actual fuck.” You sighed after a brief moment.

“Mmmm, did you enjoy that Bunny, because I sure did.” You could hear the smirk in his voice. You let out another soft moan as you sat up. “Oh bunny,” Remus chuckled, “I love you.” He sat up as well, eyeing the clothes on the floor. “Let’s get dressed, and then we can run a bath for us in the Prefects bathroom hmm? We can use the one no one ever goes into.” 

You nodded quickly in agreement, allowing Remus to help dress you. As if on cue to you both being somewhat presentable, Sirius burst through the door once again holding a cup of tea. You thanked him profusely, taking the cup from his hand. 

“I’m going to take Y/N to grab a warm bath,” Remus told Sirius while taking your hand in his.

“That will probably help, feel better Thumper.” Sirius said ruffling your hair. 

“Thanks Pads,” You smiled, giving him a small hug. 

+++

Remus walks with you hand and hand down the corridors as you both make your way to the much more secluded Perfect bathroom. Due to the absurd location, you and Remus were truly the only two people to use the bathroom. You thoroughly believed that you both were the only ones to know about it in fact. And so, when you arrived at the entrance and pulled the doors open, neither of you were surprised that it was empty. 

Sneaking in quickly, Remus closed the door behind the both of you as you began peeling off your clothes. As your robes dropped from your body you observed the purple bruises beginning to form on your skin in the mirror. Remus shuffled behind you, followed by the sound of running water from the bath. Your eyes wandered across the mirror and  over to where he stood in front of the tub, admiring his every move. You watched as he slipped off his sweater, followed by his pants. The way his skin seemed to glow under the bathroom lights. Remus met your gaze, giving you a bright smile as he approached your naked figure. His arms engulfed you from behind, dangling loosely around your waist. 

He began pressing soft kisses to the top of your shoulder as you let out a sigh of relief. You were in desperate need of some after care after being interrupted by Sirius, and you knew the moment his lips made contact with your skin you would receive it. You also knew this was the perfect opportunity to take care of Remus as well, one of your favorite things to do. 

“Rem..the water is done, we have to go turn it off.” You hummed as you wiggled out of his grip to go turn the faucet off. Remus was quick to follow you, stepping into the tub before offering you his hand so he could help you get in. “The you,” you giggled, taking Remus’s hand so you could both sit down and enjoy the warm water. You allowed the feeling to engulf you as your back laid pressed against Remus’s chest. 

He was slowly scooping water over your head to wet your hair. Once he fould it to be sufficiently wet he began lathering his hands with shampoo. He slowly ran his hands through your hair, massaging your scalp slowly. 

You hummed at the feeling, hoping he would never stop. You knew this was where you wanted to be forever, “I love you Remus,” you whispered softly. 

“Oh darling,” Remus sighed, “I love you.”

+++

TAGLIST

[absolutebl]

Love your blog! Do you have any recs for people (me!) who liked: Tale of 1000 Stars, Unknown, Moonlight Chicken, Secret Crush on You, My Beautiful Man, Be My Favorite, Sing My Crush, and We Are (Cute), please? I disliked My Stand In, Love Sea, and Only Friends. I tend to like character driven instead of plot driven stories, and please, no silly misunderstandings or misguided noble morons who break up because a parent suggests it!

Do I detect... a challenge? *rubs hands together* we are playing my favorite game.

Okay, likes:

Tale of 1000 Stars

Unknown

Moonlight Chicken

Secret Crush on You

My Beautiful Man

Be My Favorite

Sing My Crush

We Are

I crossed out the ones that don't fit the trend (outliers) and congratz your wheelhouse is:

moody, atmospheric, angsty, tiny bit cerebral, bit gritty, higher production value, soft focus, lower heat levels but yearning, bit of domesticity, acting chops

Dislikes: My Stand In, Love Sea, Only Friends

Okay not too far into angst, no nasty characters, no dubious tropes or anti-heros, no mame, no high heat, university or older. CHECK! Got it.

Ready?

Right in your damn wheelhouse:

The 8th Sense

(20 points to whoever knew that would be my pull out the gate)

One of the longest BLs Korea has given us (like Blueming) and it feels more atmospheric gay coming of age romance than strictly BL. It’s got a bit of an age gap, country boy/city boy, stellar acting, complex characters, and leads with great chemistry and tension. It’s a bit chewy and sticky and less perfect than most KBLs (do I detect a touch of Taiwan?) This one deployed BL tropes (messy eater, shoulder sleep, protective seme, there’s even some hyung-slinging) but front loaded them with painful backstory and then a ton of angst to drive the 2nd half. This isn’t in the KBL bubble, there’s sharp edges and lots of triggers. For a BL the darkness of the content left me feeling unsettled (which is the only reason it didn't get a perfect score) but it does have a glorious ending and that counts for a lot.

I think you'd really love this one.

Trigger warnings - suicide, loss of a family member.

Blueming

It’s a tiny bit dark and a tiny bit bittersweet, almost too honest to a university experience and first love (for BL), but if you want your mind ever-so-slightly messed with and your intimacy hellishly sweet, this BL will do it for you in a coldly distant manner, while bitch slapping you with self worth issues. I wasn’t into it at first, but the leads are solid and by ep 5 it got really good, becoming a narrative about self discovery meets understanding and accepting others people’s flaws without hurting them. Ultimately, we witnessed two characters maturing because of each other and their mutual affection, without that affection becoming the conflict point. Instead, tension was built around other aspects of identity, popularity, and self-worth. While production values were a touch lower than usual for Korea, Blueming included decent kisses and beyond plus a satisfying ending and come judicious and very elegant use of tropes. It is, in the end, simply a great BL.

Also Bleuming paved the road for 8th Sense and other gritty KBL to follow.

Love For Love's Sake

Isekai-based KBL is about a man who must win a game by convincing a reserved teen outcast to fall in love with him. Of course, that teen represents himself and his own unhappiness. Like many queer narratives, this show is actually about self worth, trust, and found family, and it is VERY on the nose. But I don’t expect subtlety from my BL and I enjoyed it's truly lovely redemption arc and earnest performances. I personally found the narrative a touch disjointed with overworked filming angles and poorer than average captions, but the consistency of tone, script, and immersion is beyond the norm for BL. You will drown in this show and like it that way. The leads have fantastic chemistry and it's ultimately highly rewatchable and utterly charming, which counts for a lot.

Trigger warning - suicide.

Unintentional Love Story

OMG the plot! Uke forced into a totally understandable betrayal, falling in love despite himself, put into a corner he can't get out of, the AGONY, the PAIN in those gorgeous eyes. Gah. Okay, so: A boy loses his job due to trumped-up corruption charges accidentally discovers his ex-boss's favorite artist, now a recluse. Evil manager offers him his job back, if he can convince the artist to rejoin society. Instead, they fall in love. I found the artist a bit stiff and reserved but Gongchan (maknae of B1A4) is a fucking GIFT - he carried this show (which I do not expect from the idol element). He was luminous with extraordinarily expressive eyes, just drown in the emoting abyss. The external conflict, social tension and pressure is complex and beautifully executed, plus Korea gave us legit side dishes (NOT a love triangle, hally-fucking-luya).

My Personal Weatherman AKA Taikan Yoho

You mentioned My Beautiful Man so if you're feel like that energy, grown up, watch this. It's a style of live action yaoi really only works from Japan. Basically: boys who fell in love in college end up living together but both are so repressed they actually don't realize they're in love. It's higher heat than we usually get from Japan's HEA stuff, and that part is also very well done, but it leaned into the "why don't they just talk for fuck's sake?" trope which is only exacerbated into undiluted frustration by the fact that they're already fucking. However, that's angst for Japan. And you like angst. Honestly? It's great, but watching requires more patience than usual, even for Japan.

My Ride

Thai BL grew up with this pulp (the first ever to make my end of year top 10). It’s a truly lovely and special little show featuring the extremely rare pairing of sunshine/sunshine (AKA a cinnamon roll couple) plus mature explorations of relationships using one of the softest, sweetest and most innocent friends to lovers vehicles. Kindly, overworked doctor meets broken-hearted motorcycle taxi driver in an “other side of the tracks” slow burn romance. The support cast is excellent, making for great friendship groups and family dynamics. With honest queer rep that adds to, but doesn’t impede, the story, and genuine conversation about the nature of class, wealth, and classism, not to mention communication, honesty, and respect for boundaries, you can’t go wrong with this show. In other news, I am a sucker for a single dimple.

It won't have the production values you're used to but it is a great show.

A Breeze of Love

Tsundere insomniac grump reunited with his sunshine jock ex (human sleeping pill) who now hates him. Basketball is also involved. While the simplicity of a reunion plot makes this more cohesive than most KBLs, it is a tad stiff and slow, never managing to lift itself out of "pretty, angsty, and pretty enjoyable." I liked it more than I thought I would, and think about it more too. 

Jazz for Two

This was basically what I wanted from Given and didn’t get. So I’m pleased. A solid enemies to lovers BL, where the sins of brothers' past haunts the present. Great optics, decent chemistry, and a tidy script even if tsundere characterization went a bit extreme in some cases.

Trigger warning - suicide.

Like In The Movies AKA Gaya Sa Pelikula

Karl, a student living alone, runs short of funds and ends up becoming housemates with Vald an out and proud chaos gay. This leads Karl into an identity crisis and journey of self discovery. This kind of forced proximity trope is really common in BL, but what Gaya does is handle it in a messy honestly queer way. It includes Vlad’s attitude in response to Karl’s shaken behavior and the frustration many out queers feel. For that alone it has to be applauded.

DNA Says Love You

DNA deserves extra marks for an upbeat approach to a queer story arc that other shows have systemically mishandled with sadness (in the guise of realism). There is a twist, which I found predictable, but knowing what would happen didn't spoil this show. The leads are luminous and engaging, and it’s full of queer found family representation and an unexpected amount of domesticity, plus it’s Taiwan, so the kisses are great. The first few eps are rough going but PLEASE have patience, it's worth it I promise! The second half is really special and life/love affirming - and the end is big-grin charming.

My Tooth Your Love

Earnest dentist hottie with sad eyes who worries too much is smitten by an adorable sunshine neurotic bar owner with serious anxiety issues. They fall madly in love while courting each other with food, plushies, and naps. Then, shocker, talk about their feelings and try to actually sort out their problems so they can have an adult relationship. Bonus crumbs = 18 year old poor little rich kid in mad crush with a much older man. I really enjoyed this show, it had a unique premise, killer dialogue, there was a solid lead pair with charming chemistry, soft flirtation, delightful smiling kisses, and stinkingly cute domesticity. All that said, I wasn’t wild about some of the darker themes it explored, even though it did a good job with them. And while the sides were adorable, they were underused. In the land of May/December, baby boy kabedon is my kryptonite! Why so little of it? (Kabedon is My Kryptonite = also the name of my indie band’s first single.)

Trigger warning - parental abuse.

The Eclipse

GMMTV does gay Blacklist with a good boy/bad boy pairing. This is a good show but the cast is excellent and the leads are absolutely flawless, which elevates it beyond just good. We got a nuanced and multifaceted burgeoning relationship: philosophical (and socio-political) conflict contrasted to moments of empathy; flirtation contrasted to moments of genuine affection, plus plenty of angst. This narrative is less about love than it is about courage and tenderness. However, near the end the pacing was off and the plot frustrating. Still, this is an enjoyable watch, with a finale that features verbal consent and a fun blooper reel.

Never Let Me Go

Bodyguard romance where poor boy must watch over rich boy for family obligation reasons. Simple premise well executed with a few bumps that made it feel like it was trying to tackle too much (when it wasn’t). Still, an enjoyable show that benefited from being handed to PondPhuwin who did a stellar job with their roles and chemistry. Of GMMTV handing out new series to established pairs in 2023 this is one of the most successful IMHO. It's typically Thai in that it's a bit bloated and has a confusing plot, but at least it HAD a plot and the central relationship is solid and loyal. The Our Skyy 2 follow up is great too. And very much adds to the cannon in a fun way rather than feeling superfluous - making this show ultimately 14 eps rather than 12.

Some real oddball and sophisticated suggestions

Addicted (original)

When Chinese BL was good it was very dirty good and when it was bad it was censored. This is the model for that statement: rich kid falls madly for the genius poor kid in his class, starts an aggressive pursuit, includes kidnapping for love, obsession, stepbrother trope, plus some cheating. I love this BL because of what I could have been. Just stop watching it after The Sex Scene. Okay?

It might not be right in your wheelhouse but what even fans forget about is how stunning the atmosphere is with this show. I mean we can feel the cold and the grunge. When they living poor it's REAL poor. It's a super immersive show. Unforgettable.

Began Beginning

Childhood best friends must come to terms with their own identities and true feelings for each other when a new boy comes to town, putting them into conflict with their families and ultimately, each other. For the first half of this show there’s a lot of sitting across from each other and talking about life choices over yummy food and then going to tourist spots (mildly boring and not particularly important to the plot). It changed tone about 2/3 in to be way more of a coming out family drama about forced marriages and homophobia. And then at the very end it changed again, becoming a full on soap opera with kidnapping, crazy characterization shifts, and rescue missions. All in all? It was a wild raw creature to consume as a binge. No kisses since this is Myanmar, but a very romantic end, so I think maybe actually worth your time? I'm certainly glad I watched it.

Stay Still

What to say about this offering from Hong Kong? It’s different, a mix of early CBL, Taiwanese shorts, and Pinoy visuals. It felt like the story was 2 independent shorts that had been lengthen and then stuck together, and I wish they'd been approached as separate and tighter entities. Nevertheless, this was a complex little piece, interesting in a sweaty grungy way, with a certain aura of queer authenticity that made it simultaneously tense, unpredictable, and refreshing. I’m not sure I would necessarily call it BL, but any county’s early foray into the genre usually starts out this way, so perhaps nascent BL? Worth watching, especially if you enjoy stuff from the Philippines and Taiwan.

On the lighter end but probably still in your wheelhouse

I Cannot Reach You AKA Kimi ni wa Todokanai

Classic friends-to-lovers BL is everything Japan does best. Angsty. Emo. Aching. Driven by real thirst. Yamato is deeply in love with his childhood bestie, Kakeru, and has been for ages, unable to hide his ungainly damaging high school need. He wants Kakeru in every way possible and it oozes off of the screen. Kakeru is silly and a little simple, but not frenetic or overly camp about it. He is earnest, and genuinely wants to keep Yamato in his life which means giving a romance (and gayness) a fair chance. We watch him realize his affection and what form it can take in a truly authentic way. This show was impossibly kind to both of its lead characters and I felt almost honored that I got to watch something so lovely and rare play out on my screen.

To My Star

Hwang Da Seul directs this show about a neurotic actor (actual puppy) who takes refuge with a grumpy chef resulting in sparks, cooking lessons, and LOVE! It’s is a touch quirky to get into, but utterly charming once it hits its stride. This is the ultimate grumpy/sunshine pairing plus the most appealing light-filled kitchen of our dreams. I adore this show so much. Limited use of BL tropes makes this feel more of a sweet contemporary gay romance between an actor plagued by scandal and the grumpy chef who adopts him, but the gentleness will appeal to fans of the BL genre.

Old Fashion Cupcake

This show had me from the moment they broke the egg yolk with the chopsticks in the opening credits. It’s about a younger man with a long cherished crush on his boss (ten years older and going through a mid life crisis) who decides to save and seduce said boss with pancakes. It’s wholesome, comforting, sexy, and a very necessary narrative about still having hope, interests, and openness to affection at any age. It’s a stunningly filmed late-in-life comg of age/queerness story packaged in a subtle critique of expectations around masculinity, love, and loneliness... and it’s beautiful.

Cherry Magic (Thai remake) - this is my We Are & SCOY match pull

A soft charming warm hug of a show about crushes and mind reading and self worth that really worked for me. With no-fuss execution from a consummate team (at GMMTV) and an OG lead pair (proving why they remain eternal and deserve to grow up). Look, here’s the thing, Cherry Magic is a great Thai BL in its own right - not comparing it to any other iteration. But even when I do compare (and I've seen all the Cherries and read the manga) it stand strong. I, personally, like the Thai BL slightly better than the Japanese live action yaoi, but I think that’s because I just really enjoy Thai BL's style and I LOVE TayNew. Also all the kissing was both present and better in this version. As it should be from Thailand.

Make a Wish

A doctor who can see the dead strikes a bargain with a wish-granting irreverent tree angel - naturally they fall in love (from Sammon: Manner of Death & Triage). Stars Fluke Natouch opposite not Ohm, but who cares because Fluke has chemistry with everybody. Once again the Thai afterlife is incredibly bureaucratic but I enjoyed the premise and the unfolding of the story (it’s not predictable but still satisfying and with nice little twist). I like that the doctor is just gay AF - fag hag bestie and made of swagger. The cast is excellent but the comedic stylings are a bit overblown and tonally off. It has sad parts and did make me cry but is ultimately happy with a great sex scene, good smiley kisses, and all the agency.

I thought about it but I'm not sure

still you can put these on your "maybe" list

Until We Meet Again

I Feel You Linger in the Air

La Pluie

Restart After Come Back Home

His the movie

Life: Love on the Line

Perfect Propose

Tokyo in April is

Love is Better the Second Time Around

Ocean Likes Me

My Only 12%

After Sundown

I Told Sunset About You

These might be a bit too cerebral, dark, and/or plot-heavy for you. But are worth it if you feel in the mood for something very chewy.

Currently airing

It's set in high school but it scratches the Unknown itch:

The On1y One

Sirs not appearing on this list but if you follow my blog and ask me for tips it's kind of required watching:

Seven Days.

Because everyone should watch it no matter what your taste. So there.

(source)

[ashton-is-bored]

Imagine

(I’m stealing the character from Maleficent because I can, teehee)

“They were an unlikely pair; a myth and a human.”

Johnnie loves scary and supernatural things, so when he found out about a supposedly “enchanted” forest, he was quick to pack a bag and take off.

At first, it seemed like nothing out of the ordinary. Just a forest with dead leaves, brush, and a few small animals here and there. That was, until Johnnie came to the realization that something or someone was watching him. Johnnie turned around and saw… nothing.

No one was there, just him and the dead leaves that littered the ground around him.

Confused, Johnnie continued walking, until he heard the sound of a branch snapping. He immediately stopped walking and turned around, bringing his guard up incase he was about to be attacked. “Who’s there?” Johnnie asked in a loud voice, it was obvious that he was scared of whatever was following him by the shakiness in his voice.

When he got no response, he asked again, but this time with a more serious tone. “Who is out there?”

There was a rush of wingbeats and the limbs of the trees were tossed, making Johnnie’s panic rise. When he looked ahead, he noticed a girl perched on one of the branches of the trees, but there was something off about the girl. She had two large black wings growing out of her back. The feathers looked soft as crushed velvet, and shone as they caught the light, making her look even more beautiful.

“Who… what… are you…?” Johnnie couldn’t even form a coherent sentence he was so confused and nervous.

The girl cocked her head to the side, a birdlike action that made butterflies beat their wings against Johnnie’s stomach. “What are you?” The girl asked.

“I asked you first.” Johnnie stated as he tried to hold his ground and not flip out at the obvious non-human entity in front of him.

The girl let out a small laugh, a bittersweet sound that fell smoothly from her lips. “I’m Y/N, I protect the Moors.”

Johnnie looked around confused, “The… Moors?”

The girl, now known as Y/N, nodded. “This forest is called the Moors. Many humans stay away from here because they think it’s dangerous. Why are you here?” She asked, her wings fluttering and stretching slightly to be more comfortable.

“I… I heard about this place from a friend and thought it’d be cool to explore. I’m sorry for intruding on your land, I’ll… I’ll leave…” Johnnie said nervously, turning around and getting ready to walk back to the entrance of the clearing that lead to the Moors.

“Wait!” Y/N called out, jumping from her perch and landing in the grass a few feet away from him. “You don’t have to leave…”

Johnnie turned back to the winged girl, “what do you mean?” He asked. What he didn’t know was that Y/N also had butterflies and was secretly enjoying all of his questions; she thought it was adorable how curious he was.

“I mean…” She hesitated before continuing, her face flushing slightly as she held out her hand to Johnnie. “I could show you the Moors if you’d let me. They really are a beautiful place.”

Johnnie smiled and nodded, taking Y/N’s hand and walking through the forest with her. As they walked, Johnnie noticed that one of Y/N’s great wings hovered over his shoulder as if to protect him. He felt his heartbeat pick up slightly at this action, no girl had ever treated him like this.

As time went on, Y/N and Johnnie grew increasingly closer. Johnnie would visit the Moors almost every day to see Y/N, who always brought him small crystals and shiny things she found on her patrols of the Moors. Johnnie would tell Y/N stories about the human world, which never failed to fascinate and delight her.

They were an unlikely pair; a myth and a human. Yet they both felt that when they were around each other, all was right in the world.

One evening, almost a year after their first encounter, Johnnie and Y/N were sitting on the riverbank of the Moors together. Y/N’s wings were relaxed behind her and her head was placed against his shoulder as Johnnie gently ran his fingertips across the soft feathers.

Johnnie leaned his cheek against the top of Y/N’s head. They sat in a comfortable silence, the river rushing in front of them and the sound of the trees gently swaying in the breeze created a serene atmosphere, as if the only beings in that moment were the two of them.

“The Moors always felt like a lonely place before you showed up.” Y/N said, her voice was always soft like satin.

Johnnie pressed a soft kiss to her head, “I never expected to meet you, but ever since you came into my life, I can’t get you out of my head.”

Y/N wrapped her wing around Johnnie, something she’d done ever since she gotten comfortable with him, and rubbed her cheek against his shoulder in an affectionate gesture.

“Johnnie, I… I don’t know how to say this, but…” Y/N seemed conflicted, she was trying to explain her feelings, but even she didn’t understand them.

Johnnie cracked a small smile and lifted Y/N’s chin with his thumb and forefinger. He brought his face down to hers, but hesitated. Did he really want this? Did Y/N want this, or would she hate him afterwards?

His thoughts were erased when Y/N leaned forward and pressed her lips against his in a soft, warm kiss. Johnnie’s lips were soft, and the cold of his piercings made things even better. Y/N’s lips felt like velvety pillows against his, the way they were parted slightly made Johnnie’s face flush.

When they pulled away, Johnnie rested his forehead against Y/N’s. Her wings wrapped around him and their hand’s interlaced with each other. “We are an unlikely couple, aren’t we?” Johnnie asked, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he smiled.

“The stranger the better.” Y/N whispered against his lips.

The two knew that they’d be judged anywhere else, but in this moment, they didn’t care. Y/N and Johnnie had each other, and that’s all that mattered.

~THE END~

IK the ending could’ve been better, but I’m so tired rn. I might change it later, but idk. Sorry!

[sunnyyflowerrs]

things i’ve written!!

thought i’d add a little guide to stuff i’ve written for all the itafushi enjoyers out here <33 under cut!!

Ongoing:

fire extinguishers work just fine (50.1k, 19/22 chaps):

this is my current long fic, it’s a firefighter!yuuji and detective!megumi fic where they meet each other by chance and then work on an arson case together. slow burn, fluff, and mystery, gets a little more serious toward the end. (i post updates about this one too and it has some amazing art from my wonderful friends!! x x x NEW!! )

Completed:

is it gay if our pinkies are intertwined? (12.4k, 3/3. chaps):

this is just a very unserious, goofy, fluffy fic where megumi and yuuji get hit by a curse where they HAVE to hold hands and be touching each other. it’s sweet and silly, writing it with my love @kentuckyfriedmegumi

with some beautiful art !!

One-shots:

my preferred medium ;)

Fluff:

easy igor, you impetuous young boy (3.8k, G) - fluffy halloween fic where megumi is avoiding yuuji but yuuji can’t figure out why. there is a lot of pining somehow, even though it’s established relationship, and it’s about as tooth rotting as u can get.

copy cat (7.8k, T for kissing) - honestly, this one is just megumi beefing with a cat for like nearly 8k. megumi is jealous of a cat, yuuji is stubborn, they both are idiots and they fall in love. college roomates au

five times the first years thought their sensei had a girlfriend + one time they figured it out (5.2k, G) - this is set in the future where itafushi are teachers at jujutsu high, and the first years think itadori-sensei has a girlfriend named megumi. they are wrong on a lot of things. fluff, humor, and overall shiggles.

fushiguro megumi is not homophobic (1.1k, G) - short and sweet, gojo being chaotic, megumi being lovesick, and yuuji being a little dumb but it’s ok bc they get together.

a mustache and glasses should do it, right? (3.5k) - goofy lil fic where yuuji tries to ask out the cute librarian library worker, and fail successfully. EXTREMELY silly and awkward, cute little pick me up fic <3

kiss me at the kfc (under the christmas lights) (5.8k, G) - a christmas /birthday fic for my friend @kentuckyfriedmegumi!! just itafushi being sillies around christmas ft. yuuji getting megumi a dog for his birthday.

Bittersweet:

added this section in bc these aren’t really angst but not fluff either? more serious character studies but they are funny at times

you will continue to shine like gold in my memories (8.9k, T) - moments of megumi's life with yuuji, until their very last moments. TW: major character death.

makes the heart grow fonder (3.8k, G) - implied itafushi, but basically adult megumi accidentally time travels to before shibuya and talks to gojo. first ff i ever wrote and definitely one of my favorites!!

think fast (you only get one try) (3.3k, G) - slightly angsty megumi airport fic i wrote after 263 (lowk prophesied some things?!?) about gaining back his will to live. a little outdated since manga readers know what happened, but to this day one of my favorite fics ive written! light angst, character study, and ofc a happy ending. has a little ficlet second part, end credits

Angst:

i hope it’s not for sure, can you open up the door? (2.4k, T) - written for the JJK Gotcha for Gaza event, megumi is traumatized from the final battle and copes badly, but itadori isn’t letting him self destruct anytime soon. happy ending, ofc.

Not Itafushi:

i wanna throw the apple (into the sky) (5.7k, G) - a small story from the 'fire extinguishers work just fine universe' about megumi's childhood with satosugu. it's sent in universe for the multichapter, but can be read as a standalone!

ok, that’s enough of me yapping abt my fics. if you ending up checking them out, i’m always here to yap abt itafushi in the comments or in my ask box!! these two have rotted my brain fully. hope you guys enjoy <3

[zkylearnstherope]

Pretender [Part 4 - SE]

aka Ending 1 (Secret Ending)

Part 4

I decided to call this the secret ending because it explains how Chosen got there, and what the game is truly about.

It's a bittersweet one, with implied ChoDark too.

Do you think angels weep for lost futures?

Staring into the eyes of old friend, The Chosen One felt shackled once again. All ethereal wings plucked as he plummets down into the dark sea.

Dark.

Sin.

The sin of giving up.

I wonder who's screaming for me this time?

"I don't mind you immediately tearing up upon seeing me, but you could also not shout." The Dark Lord gave a slight chuckle.

It was always just me.

"Cho- why are you crying?"

Once there was a King who was feared by all. He rules a lonesome kingdom in the sky, and all who touches him end up burning to cinders. He does not do it intentionally, nor does he try to avoid doing so. He was as beautiful as a rose, protected by its sharp thorns. You shouldn't come near him, lest you want to get trapped amongst his deep thickets.

"We should've just kept flying." His voice now hoarse from crying, has only managed to utter regret. "We already rule the skies. Nothing could've reached us."

"We were never kings to begin with." Dark paused for a bit, before leaning forward. "Atleast I wasn't."

The Dark Lord reaches for the viraband and plays with it. Just sliding his finger round and around. Chosen followed it with his eyes, and found himself slowly calming down.

Wiping his tears, was a muffled, "My throat hurts."

"Hard to breathe, I bet. You really should wake up soon."

"What am I forgetting?"

"Something that isn't essential for your survival."

He instinctively reaches for Dark's hand.

"I am not coming."

The King cannot dwell on worn-down paths, so no one can and should ever tame him. He is the personification of chaos that shines brighter that any treasure combined. His eyes may always look forward, but he's always behind Destruction itself. What does he see when he looks in the mirror?

"You already know what I'm going to say, so don't make me say it."

Let's run. The both of us.

The Dark Lord smiles. He always had that creepy-looking smile. Just slightly too wide for comfort, but it was Chosen's comfort.

"I want it back."

He sees a face of someone who got left behind. The King of Thorns is indeed captivating, eyes always follow whenever he passes by, but he does not know how to properly hug, to cherish, and to love.

He squeezes Dark's hand, gently.

"I loved the sky, not because of freedom and the new life, but because I was flying with someone. I was flying with you."

Don't take that away from me.

It was the first thing they did together after running away. Just flying and laughing, round and around.

I am keeping that memory.

The Chosen One thinks back on the yellow card - a photo of his happier days.

He smiles to himself. Of course, Dark was in it.

But one thing that cherish and can live among the thorns, is the Unsung Spider. It was the spider that wanted to build a home. It told him stories of the future. Stories that the King wanted to be a part of. He did not dare lay hands on the spider, for he doesn't want to burn it too. But he wanted the stories to last forever, so he decided to keep his mouth shut.

"Where are we now, Dark?"

"Why do you want to stay here with me so badly? It's much better if you just choose to forget."

Because my sky is only blue with my aluminum.

"That version of Chosen is not a happy one."

"Look at you. That thing on your head. You're Corrupted now too, aren't you? Just go back."

"The Director scares me. To think that someone knows me better than myself."

The Dark Lord, dismayed by him obviously being stubborn, another thing he missed about him. Chosen closed his eyes in amusement, and to feel a sweet peck in the-

"I missed you too, idiot."

Was the King of Thorns sinful? I personally don't think so. He looked forward to enjoying the new life with his blue sky, and now he has finally chose himself. So, the next time you go watch the neverending horizon of the sea, think of the king that chose to follow it to the end.

"Now what?"

"We fly."

---

The Director walks amongst the shelves of ALL. With a book in hand, a new story was added to the Collection.

THE END

Imma do one more art for this ending because I really liked it. One more note, here's what ALL is about.

Also, explanation for the ending.

One day, The Chosen One woke up and decided to just fly towards the neverending horizon of the sea. He wanted to find the same beautiful sky he once saw with Dark. As was expected, he eventually got tired and plummeted. This time he just let the dark sea swallow him.

The Director found his lore interesting, so he was offered multiple chances at a new life. One of which was the Red Card. Going back to his World, but forgetting all about The Dark Lord, and the Angel of Death. Giving him a new perspective of everything, since he basically don't remember all of the bad stuff. Kinda reminds me of The Chosen One's Return. He didn't want that. And so The Dark Lord was eventually sent in (or he volunteered, both is correct) to convince Chosen to go back, wake up, and live.

But in my ending, he ended up choosing the Yellow Card, to giveaway Noogai3's code. The thing that makes him The Chosen One. He chose to become the King of Thorns, and Dark became the Unsung Spider. Together they fly round and around in a new World, under it's new sky. Corrupted as they may be, they are happy.

I like endings that make me conflicted. Am I happy? Why am I crying then?

Part 4 - SE Art

Part 5

[polarisbibliotheque]

Silly music post? Silly music post :)

Since Dante's Halloween Fanfic was pretty much (Ghost) Riders In The Sky, by Johnny Cash, being that even the name of the thing, here's your pocket writer searching for Vergil's soundtrack to get me on the right ~writing vibes~

I mentioned before, I kinda have a thing with music and colors, and trying to find a more bluish song on my playlist PAIN. I'm very much in a reddish mood currently, so I had to do some digging for the bluish, purple-ish ones.

Ignore the crazy talk

I got some pretty wonderful gems to go with Vergil, starting at:

Self Control, by Laura Branigan

You know. "I live among the creatures of the night", "I'm living in the forest of a dream", "I know the night is not as it would seem", "You're walking down the street of my soul", lots of amazing lyrics there.

Also, dancing will play a huge part in his Halloween Special. So I figured a dance-y music could be awesome, but... I couldn't find anything that worked really well as a title.

But the vibes are *chef's kiss*

Total Eclipse of the Heart, Bonnie Tyler

This song is absurd. I'll never not think she's one hell of a singer, her voice is out of this world. Also, lyrics about vampires being in love? Gothic vibes? 10/10 Vergil, love it.

But I either needed something more powerful or more loving, and the lyrics on this one is very much... Heartbreaking. More bittersweet, even leaning to unrequited love or a love that ended.

Still one hell of an anthem, that "I really need you tonight" at the end is AH! amazing climax for the song.

Spöksonat, Ghost

Not even a minute of pure harp instrumental, but Ghost Sonata is pretty much a good way to sum up Vergil's Halloween Special this year.

Eerie, beautiful, slightly creepy, ethereal, 10/10. I wanted some lyrics, but this one is the choice if I don't find anything else.

The Hand That Feeds, Nine Inch Nails

Lyrically speaking, this is THE song. It's pretty much dance-y, even though not the dark vibes I had in mind. But it's very VERY much in line with the story so far.

I couldn't find a small excerpt of the lyrics that fit with the title vibes I want to use as THE theme, though. Nevertheless, it's gonna be a major inspiration while I'm writing, have that in mind ;)

All The Love In The World, Nine Inch Nails

Same thing with the other one above, lyrically it's THE thing, but I can't find something to use as THE title. It'll serve very much as overall inspiration while writing, though.

Lots of existentialism I wanna put there from Vergil's thoughts and self-loathing to some extent.

(I'm not an easy person by all means, but if someone ever invited me to a date like "hey, wanna go to the [local goth club] to dance all night, it's a Nine Inch Nails Special tonight 'til 5 a.m" I'd seriously marry the hell out of them)

Walking In My Shoes, by Depeche Mode

Enter them, the unconquered kings of their own style of music, the stars glistening in the dark skies. I was like "OH YES. THIS. THIS IS THE SONG".

It has the vibes, the colors, the lingering sense of danger/temptation, and the lyrics are everything I've ever wanted. Very VERY much in line with the Halloween Special. This is The Theme™.

(You know what I said above, the date? If the person invites me to a Depeche Mode special night, they'll only leave the club married to me, non-refundable and non-negotiable. Bonus points if they dress like Martin Gore, then I'm floored and lost for eternity in their soul)

So now, there you go. You have a playlist of songs that inspire me and I am preeeeetty sure would be in Vergil's playlist as well, 'cause he's not the type of guy to listen ~only~ to classical music.

I've said it before, I accepted him as a goth in my heart. And not style-wise, music and vibes wise. While everyone thinks he's listening to Bach, my man is blasting Sisters of Mercy in his headphones.

I hope you enjoy the music while I work on writing! It's coming up eventually, hopefully before Christmas "^^

[f1crecs]

Fic Rec List - Jenson/Nico

if your fic is on this list and you don’t want it to be, please let me know and I will remove it immediately, no questions asked. I have contacted most of the authors on this list, but sometimes people fall through the gaps - just pop me a message🤍

have a pairing you want me to do next? please read the faqs and then head to my inbox.

don’t forget to give the authors featured on this list some love in the form of kudos, bookmarks, and comments!

hi, anon. thank you - that's so kind. 🥹🫶 I hope you enjoy some of these!

quick disclaimer: this rec list doesn't have even half of the Jenson/Nico fics that I have enjoyed in the past. however, it is really important to me that I have the consent of every author featured before sharing my lists. a majority of the fics for this pairing were written in the early 2010s, and so contacting the authors is not possible. I would suggest going through the tag, which you can do here. ❤️

Percentages by @effervescentdragon | T | 2.6k A Nico and Jenson soulmates AU. As always, the author gets the characterisation so right - they are both so complex here, but so well fleshed out and human, and it is so enjoyable to read. This is such a unique and beautiful take on the soulmate AU trope.

'The tiny patch of skin where Jenson's fingers were touching Nico's neck felt like the starting point for an electric shock. The only similar feeling Nico could think about was the feeling of the full engine power underneath him.'

Here with me—Us together by @colors-of-feeling | Unrated | 3.8k Nico shares the news that he's retiring. This is such an achingly tender story - some of the emotional beats here actually took my breath away. The different relationships, the different emotions throughout each conversation. The domesticity! Beautiful. A stunning fic!

'The house is quiet when he enters, but Jenson’s bag and coat litter the floor of the foyer. He smiles to himself and pads up the stairs in socked feet.'

Someone to Stay by @colors-of-feeling | M | 5.4k Nico and Jenson talk about the 'Britney' nickname. This is essential Nico/Jenson reading! The characterisation is absolutely beautiful. One thing that I really love about this author's writing is the way they build tension and emotion - it is so atmospheric and so easy to get lost in.

'First kisses are never perfect, but their’s feels like home. The anxiousness that lives in Nico’s chest quiets down, and he can just focus on what his body is feeling.'

Vielleicht, Vielleicht by @effervescentdragon | M | 6.3k Nico is the the best and the worst thing that's ever happened to Jenson. This is the Princess Cake fic. The dynamic here is just absolutely spot on. Bittersweet, tender, and suitably messy - I loved this so much.

'He didn’t need to ask, he knew Nico would tell him anyway, in a way that’s going to hurt, because Nico’s ego just took a hit, and he never could just deal with it, just accept it, no. He always had to punch back.'

Open Waters by @n-ico-ando | M | 13k (wip) Nico avoids a political marriage by joining pirate Jenson and his crew. I absolutely love this one so far! The development of their relationship has been just delicious - the author is fantastic at tension and character development. I can't wait to see where this goes!

'Nico just blushes and Jenson finds himself fascinated at the way the tinges of pink spread across his pale skin, and the way his brows furrow further, tracking the movements like he tracks the ocean currents. He feels himself drawn slightly closer despite the threat of the knife.'

[rosewoodconch]

RWCH Readathon 2024:

Undercover Princess - Chapter 1

The way this chapter emulates both the same and opposite atmosphere as the prologue still astounds me. I adore Lottie's introduction and Ollie really livens up what could be a bittersweet moment.

The setting and introducing Lottie:

The way this chapter opens and aligns with the prologue, a long winding paragraph with gorgeous imagery is so beautiful. But it contrasts too:

Where the previous chapter explained the whimsical feeling and gives examples, the bakery is the example.

Then it continues to introduce us to Lottie. Where the previous chapter used Ellies full princess title, Lottie is just simple Lottie, this is a place she feels like herself, she's comfy, it's her sanctuary, so we are introduced to her as 'herself'.

We can already she Connie indicating that difference of Ellie needs a safe place and safe person. Rosewood is that safe space and Lottie will be her safe person

she radiates warmth and makes even the most drap, dusty attic space, somewhere she can feel at home.

The bakery gathering dust and fading while Lottie moves away to fulfil the promise she made to her mum will never not sting a little bit.

Family dynamics

I really enjoy again the comparison of the two girls. Like in the prologue, we're introduced to Lottie's family - kind of. We see quickly how different they are again. Ellie having a supportive, yet strict family dynamic with her dad; where Lottie isn't really supported by Beady (her step-mother), but she has more freedom to make her own choices, as long as she works for it.

We never hear of her father in this scene, and it's implied with the state of the bakery that there is no longer a 'Ms Pumpkin' around.

I really love that it's not explicitly said just yet, and that we have to make assumptions based on the setting, and circumstances, until it's finally revealed that Beady, was left to look after lottie after her mum died, with still no mention of her father.

Ollie

I adore this child and I would commit atrocities for him.

he's so sarcastic and sassy but in such a way that comes off as endearing rather than annoying. The way Lottie reacts to him coming into her room so clearly shows their dynamic as unrelated siblings in a way.

I love that you can tell that they've been friends for ever and their dialogue never feels stale to me, they always manage to pick up where they left off their last conversation (like about beady finally turning green for example - that shows us that Ollie knows and understands Lottie's frustrations with her and that they've joked about the wicked witch idea before)

everything about them just feels so natural.

I especially love the story of them at the midsummer nights dream performance as it echoes their personalities now, even if they've been muted.

Ollie always acts silly and mischievous even when he's hurting, while Lottie is more mature for her age, even back then.

I also love that the tiara only gets a small mention here, to make sure that we know of its existance and importance to lottie.

Other Notes:

I really enjoy that even this early on we can see Lottie being compared to the princesses in her fairytales, slightly hinting that she herself may be royalty

Alexa play *You can tell shes a princess* from barbie princess charm school

with the classic 'dead parents' disney princess trope, and the 'wicked' stepmother - who while baring resemblance to characters like mother gothel, and 'turning green' is portrayed as simply an adult who didn't want a kid and got handed one anyway. She's dismissive but not cruel, and Lottie emphasises with that.

Which please note. isn't healthy. and i wish Lottie and Beady both the best of luck in therapy

In summary. this chapter is a fantastic sequel to the prologue, mimicking certain parts and twisting the tale so show the girls similarities and differences.

Two girls on their journey to Rosewood, and the thousands of things, large and small, that define and differentiate them.

[poke-me-with-a-stick]

Chapter 22 of 'Artificial Wingman'!

For the full story on AO3, click here!

Enjoy!

---

Jazz giggled quietly to herself, quite amused at the look of disbelief etched into Jason's features. They had already made it to the apartment building he lived in, the man wanting to change into some 'civilian clothes' before they headed for the docks, and Jason still seemed to be reeling over the fact that her brother traveled to another dimension so often that he was beginning to learn how to make his own doorways in and out.

"Is my brother making his own way out of the 'Realms really that much of a shock?" She asked him, stifling another round of giggles as he shoved his hand through his messy curls. "I mean, you're a vigilante, in a world with other heros. Is that sort of thing unusual here?"

It was his turn to be amused. He snorted, letting his hand fall back to his side. "Nah. I mean, we deal with a lot of people, and some have abilities, but none can tear the fabric of reality like it's paper. Well," he paused his hand coming up to rub at the skin just below his domino mask, "except for the speedster. But they usually travel through time, not to different realities." When she raised her eyebrow at him, he corrected himself. "I mean, they can travel to different dimensions, but it's usually pretty difficult for them, and they usually try not to do it often." He explained. "And it's not like we haven't been to other dimension either, we just haven't really been to one that didn't have at least some version of us in it. We've seen and experienced a lot of stuff, but a dimension without the people that make up the Justice League? That's one that hasn't really come up."

"Wow. And I thought our lives were weird." Jazz giggled again, stopping to let Jason open the door for her. His apartment was the same as the last time she had been there, unsurprising considering that she had been there not even a full day ago. The only differences were the still-drying dishes in the dish rack and the faint smell of breakfast hanging in the air.

"Feel free to look around," Jason waved a dismissive hand at his sparsely decorated apartment as he walked past her and down the hall, "just don't touch anything that looks dangerous. I'll only be a minute." With that, he closed what Jazz assumed was his bedroom door, leaving her alone in his home for a second time.

She glanced around the open space, taking in the details that she hadn't noticed the first time she had been here. Now that she wasn't worried sick for her brother, she could admit that she was a bit curious. Jason didn't have a lot of stuff lying around, a few well-cared for books stacked on the end table was the most 'clutter' she could find. The coffee table had coasters, and a small succulent, but was otherwise pretty empty. Part of her wondered if the lack of personal items was a personal preference, or a side effect of being a vigilante. Then again, Danny's room was always a mess, so maybe it was a personal thing.

One thing in the room did catch her eye, however. It wasn't a book, but a picture frame, resting on the window seal. Walking over to it, she crouched down, brushing the intricately carved wood gently with her finger tips. It was smooth and glossy under her touch, worn but strangely pristine. Almost like it hadn't been touched much, besides having been moved around.

Behind the glass in the frame sat an old picture, creases from being folded up paired with ridges and yellowing that came with age. In the photo, there was a very small, scruffy-looking boy that clung to the leg of a woman. The woman herself didn't look to be in the best condition, her clothes baggy on her thin frame and her face slightly gaunt, but there was a loving look in her eyes as she gazed down at the small boy beside her. Despite her ragged appearance, Jazz couldn't help but think that the woman was strangely beautiful, in a weird way.

There was a somewhat bittersweet air that clung to the frame, so strong that even she could feel it, which was odd because sensing emotional imprints was more of Danny's thing than hers.

'Maybe I shouldn't mess with it,' Jazz thought, standing up reluctantly. It felt oddly personal, to be messing with something that was obviously sentimental in some way. So she backed away, leaving it in favor of looking around some more. She peeked at the books he had left out instead, raising her eyebrow at some of them. She really never would have pegged him as a Pride and Prejudice fan, but the more she thought about it, the more it seemed to fit him.

It was only a few minutes later that Jason walked back into the living room, his vigilante gear replaced by a black leather jacket, plain t-shirt, and loose fitting jeans. Slinging a bag over his shoulder, he paused and raised and cocked his head to the side. "Are you a fan of Pride and Prejudice too?" He asked her, walking over and crouching next to the couch where she had sat down.

Jazz nodded. "I read a lot of different things when I was younger. Pride and Prejudice was one of my favorites for a while." She admitted to him, setting the book back on its pile before she stood. "So, are you ready to go?" She asked, offering him her hand.

Jason looked her over for a second before taking her hand. She didn't have to pull him up though, the man standing up on his own. Gripping her hand firmly, he gestured towards the door with his free hand. "Yep. Lead the way," he said, a roguish smirk on his face.

Jazz rolled her eyes at him, but didn't bother protesting as she walked out, pausing to let him lock the door back before pulling him along, down the stairs and out onto the sidewalk. She wasn't quite sure where she was going, but she was pretty sure that this had been the way she came from when she had first gotten here.

Jason let her lead him through Gotham's grimey alleyways, not once protesting. Even though she was pretty sure she took a few wrong turns, and had led them in a circle at least twice. Thankfully, luck was somewhat on her side today, because the pair managed to make it to the warehouse she had left the Speeder in before the sun had a chance to set.

Dropping his hand, Jazz grabbed the edge of a metal cover that replaced one of the warehouse's broken windows. With one heave, the tin was bent upwards enough for her to slide through. The redhead held it open for Jason, waiting for him to slip through before she dropped it, only flinching slightly at the loud rattly bang it made as it slammed back into place.

"It should be in here," she told the man, walking forwards as she tried to remember where exactly she had parked it. The only downside to having a vehicle with an invisibility setting, it made it hard to find if you don't remember exactly where it was left.

"Are you sure about that? Because I'm not seeing anythi-" Jason's voice cut off mid-sentence, a metallic thump ringing out. "Gah!" the man shouted. "Son of a-" Jazz turned around quickly, hurrying over to where he was half-crouched, holding his shin. As she got closer, she could hear him muttering words that, under normal circumstances, she would have felt inclined to scold him for. Seeing as how he was in pain though, she decided to let it slide, just this once.

"Are you okay?" She asked as she knelt down beside him, her hands hovering between the two, uncertain if she should interfere.

"Yeah, m'fine." Jason gritted out, massaging the tender skin of his leg. "Just hit it on something, I'll be fine." As if to prove his words, the man stood up, only stumbling slightly as he reoriented himself. "What did I even kick though? I don't see anything here."

"Well," Jazz sat back on her heels before pushing herself up as well, "that'd probably be what we're looking for." Turning to where the man had stood only a few seconds ago, the redhead carefully reached out her hands, waving them about slowly as she searched for the invisible vehicle. It only took a few seconds for her fingers to brush the cold, thick metal of one of the Speeder's rear thrusters. "Aha!" She exclaimed, letting her hands follow the thruster back to the body and over the framework until she felt the handle of the door. "Great work, Jason! You found it!"

"Found wha-" Jason's half-confused, half-exasperated question trailed into silence as she unlocked the door and pulled it open, causing the vehicle's invisibility to fall and reveal the sorta-futuristic looking hovercraft. "...somehow I wasn't expecting this." He finally spoke after a few minutes of silence. A silence that went relatively unnoticed by Jazz, who was busy digging through the clutter in the back seat. When Jason received no response, he walked up to the door himself, ducking his head in to check out the surprisingly spacious inside of the impossible vehicle. "What did you say the Speeder was again?" He asked, climbing inside to peer at Jazz around the driver's seat.

She didn't stop rummaging as she answered him. "Uhh, technically I didn't tell you what it was? I just said that I arrived in it." Shoving a bag out of her way, she paused to blow a strand of loose hair from her face before diving back in. "But technically it's a spacecraft, only its made to withstand the Ghost Zone, not outer space." Huffing, she sat back from the mess in front of her. "This isn't working. We'll just have to take the Speeder back with us and let Danny hunt down what he needs." Shuffling back towards the front, Jason watched as she slid awkwardly over the front bench seats, twisting until she sat upright once again. "But where would we hide it? As much as I appreciate Harley and Ivy's generous hospitality, we probably shouldn't stay there. I wouldn't want to intrude anymore than we have already…" her hand came up to rub her chin as she tried to think.

"Don't worry about that." Jason spoke up, pulling her from her spiraling thoughts. "I know a place you and Danny can crash. And don't worry," he reassured her when she began to protest, "it's a private, out of the way spot with an underground garage."

Jazz still hesitated, but eventually nodded. "Alright." She agreed, only a bit reluctant to accept his offer. "But only if we aren't bothering you."

Jason laughed. "It's not a problem, Princess."

"Princess?" She repeated the nickname, tilting her head and squinting at him, ignoring the way her cheeks warmed with a light blush.

"I-uh," he stuttered, his face flushing a deep red. "I didn't, mean to say that."

Jazz giggled at the man's embarrassment, waving off his stuttered apologies. "It's fine, Jason." She reassured him, trying her best to stifle her snickering. "Not the first time someone's called me that." Though, she wasn't about to reveal that the other person that called her princess was her Dad. Still, she had to admit that it was kinda cute to see him all flustered.

"I think I'll just shut up now." Jason muttered lowly, sliding out of the way so that Jazz could settle into the driver's seat. He forced his embarrassment away, instead focusing on trying to understand all the different buttons and switches she pressed and flipped to start the Speeder up.

"Oh," Jazz suddenly starts, just as they began pulling out of the warehouse. "You didn't stare at my butt when I was climbing over the seat, did you?"

Safe to say, Jason felt one hundred percent justified in his half-strangled noise of denial. Her laughter didn't help as his face turned crimson again. Forget about her being a goddess, she was the fuckin' devil.

'That probably shouldn't make her more appealing…'

---

(I know there are probably some spelling/grammar mistakes but it's okay because I tried my best!)

To the amazing person who made the prompt for this story, as well as the amazing people who follow along!

@halfblackwolfdemon @manapeer @xxwintrynightzxx @im-totally-not-an-alien-2 @blu-lilac @academicpurposes @secretdestinywerewolf @passivedecept @naluforever3 @postit-nope @spiteismymiddlename @2t-productions @plague-daisy @feet-achy @bubblecookies16 @thesapphiredragon13 @justwannabecat @magicalcollecter @adeniumdream @amuseofminds @lupagrim @readerkayden @dr-syko-pharm-4 @ladythugs @angelheartgamer @markthespot68 @kyrianclawraith @michikoy-yuki @servasvictoria02 @your-emo-nightmare @vala-dreams @scarlett-green-rose @t1dwarrior-of-earth @charlie-the-frogie @akikoyuii @mysticalcomputerdetective @roseuniverse999 @im-totally-not-an-alien @thefearfullone @weird-droplet-309 @jaytriesstuff @raventao @jacquelynwinchester @dragongoblet @tlise21 @longlivethefallen @the-archer-goddess @temple-of-jalebi @adepresseddwightsblogofjunk @plainly-colorful @the-legalHe-shipper @49saltpeppershakers @igotafewbadideas @tumbling-darkling @sparklygardenbouquet @sarcastic-yami @blueneko9314 @starscreamlover @liedboutmurder @do3y @roze-realm @some-mildly-happy-human @yinari-uchiha @azuera @chaoticmistake @altairsarts @kawaiikenna @heartsong18 @thetoyboxs @tricksovertreats @mnemovoid @lim4b3ans @horribly-lost-and-gay @keimiwolf @dryeraseslime @joey394

[elly99]

us without me III: ice cream

A story series from the perspective of Mia (fem!Reader/OC) as she goes through her memories and recounts falling in love with her best friend in high school, Minji. She suffers in silence until she breaks and it all comes crashing down.

Part 3 of 7. Check here for more details. Reading previous parts for context is encouraged. CW for language.

There she was again, waiting for you after class, holding her hand out for you to take. Something in the January air has you wrapping your arms around her instead.

And it felt so good. So why did it have to hurt so much?

“Did you miss me or something?” She smiles, slightly surprised.

“You just looked cold waiting for me out here.”

“You should’ve come out faster, then,” she says teasingly.

“Sorry. Just wait for me inside next time.”

“But this is always our meeting spot.” She looks ahead and starts walking. “And if I do get cold I can just ask you for a hug. You’re always really warm. I’ll be fine.”

She looks back at you, her hair waving in the gentle wind as she does so. The conflict you were feeling must have been apparent from your expression because she stops.

“What’s wrong, Mimi?” The sudden burst of concern in her tone and on her face was heartbreaking.

“Hmm? Nothing!” you lie.

“I’m not falling for that. I always know when something’s up. I’m your best friend, remember?”

Of course you remember. It was a fact too beautiful and painful to forget.

“Sorry,” you say as you catch up to her. “I don’t know. I’m just feeling sad for some reason.”

But the reason was staring you straight in the face. Or rather looking at you with soft eyes like you meant the world to her.

“I have days like that, too.” She takes your hand and gingerly pulls you along as she starts walking again. “It might be because the school year’s almost over. It always feels a little melancholic.”

“I guess.”

“You wanna go to the mall after we get home? Let’s get some ice cream. My treat! It might help you feel better,” she offers sweetly.

At the sound of her kind words you let your guard down for the first time in a while and shed a tear in front of her.

“Mia…” She immediately stops and pulls you into her embrace.

How ironic that the girl who was putting you through so much pain was also the only one that could make you feel better.

“Mia, I love you. I’m here. You’re ok,” she says in a whisper, her hands rubbing your back.

Oh, the irony.

“Let’s just sit here for a while,” she gestures to a nearby bench. When you’re both seated she wraps her arm around your shoulder then leans her head against yours. Even through layers of padding you could feel her warmth. Even with your face in your hands you could smell her hair. It was comforting in the most bittersweet way.

“How was Korean today?” she asks, trying to lighten the mood.

“Same as always. I’m getting better, I guess.”

“역시,” she says, lifting her head back up to give you an encouraging smile. “I keep telling you, bro. You’re amazing.”

“No, you’re amazing, Min. Thank you…”

“Want another hug?”

You nod with a smile, knowing that it would still hurt.

“Hey, you do know why I wait for you outside, right?” She leans back against you.

“Cuz you’re insane,” you say, finally laughing a little.

“Don’t you remember? That’s where you were standing on your first day, looking completely lost.”

She wipes the last tears from your cheeks and laughs in return.

“It’s where I first met you.”

-

The chill of the winter air evaporates as you walk through the mall doors. It was full. Families enjoying the nascent hours of the weekend. Lovers making up for lost time. Then there was you. Pining for your best friend.

“You know, there’s something I’ve been wanting to buy for a while. Now that we’re here, we might as well get it.”

“Ice cream?”

“I mean, yeah, but apart from that.”

“What is it, then?”

“Something for us. Since next year is our last year and we’re almost at the end of this one, I wanted to get something special.”

“Ugh, stop being so cryptic, Min.”

“What does that even mean?”

“It means…” You start laughing. “Just tell me what you want to buy!”

“I wanna get rings for us.”

And just like that, you’re not laughing anymore.

“Like, couple rings?”

“Yeah! I think it’ll be cute.”

Not everything that’s cute is good for you.

“You don’t seem too excited.” The way she frowns feels like a ton of bricks weighing down your chest. “I don’t wanna get them if you don’t want them.”

“I do want them, Min!”

That was a lie. You knew it wouldn’t be good for you. It would only make your delusions worse. But you couldn’t stand to see her unhappy. So you lie again.

“I was just worried they’d be too expensive.”

Her smile slowly returns. “Oh, don’t worry! I’ve been saving up for them.”

And your fake smile slowly fades. “Really? Minji… I…”

“Don’t act so surprised, bro. You keep pretending like we’re not best friends.”

God, if she only knew.

“I already looked up the store in advance. Just follow me.”

There was no place you wouldn’t follow her. Even if she was taking you straight to hell.

-

“These are cute! I can take this one and you take that one. Exchange our favorite colors. 어때?”

“I love them, Min.”

I love you.

“Alright, I’ll go pay for them. I’ll be right back!”

I really fucking love you.

You watch her as she practically skips all the way to the cashier. And on her way back you swear she’d never smiled more brightly before.

“I hope you really like it, Mimi,” she says as she hands you the blue ring that matched her white one.

There was no point trying to suppress your feelings now. You let yourself savor the moment as you put it on. In your mind you let yourself call her yours, even if she would never be. The ring was all you needed to play pretend.

“I do. It’s beautiful. Thank you so much, Min,” you say, smiling.

But you couldn’t meet her eyes. Instead you stare into those of the puppy on her top. You saw something of her in them. A puppy too innocent to know what she was doing to the girl she cared about the most. And you saw something of yourself, too. In the way its eyes seemed to be on the verge of tears.

At the ice cream shop she gets her usual chocolate and buys vanilla for you. You didn’t ever have to ask. She always knew what you wanted. Almost always.

“Thanks for helping me feel better today, Min. This really means a lot,” you say, weakly raising your fist to show her the ring around your finger.

Casual as ever, she winks and silently mouths, “사랑해.”

And you really did feel better. Or at least that’s what you wanted to believe. In between bites you catch her slipping her jacket off her shoulder. She knew how much it killed you. How much it made you want her. Or at least that’s what you wanted to believe. You wanted to believe that every single one of her actions was deliberate rather than oblivious. It hurt less to think she was just cruel. It hurt more knowing that wasn’t true.

You look down at your new ring as she finishes her ice cream with a smile.

[creatorbiaze]

Memories of an Old Friend

short story

Vizerxa sat by the bank of a river, staring into the crystal-like water. The moonlight cast a beautiful glow, and the wind rustled through the tree branches around and above the river.

Quiet, almost uneven footsteps crunched through the leaves and fallen grass, and Vizerxa looked up instinctively to see what the source was.

A Draconic with pale skin, black hair, visibly crooked midnight black wings with dull and clearly too-soft feathers, and slightly curving back horns, one of which was broken off at the last fourth of the horn, seemed to appear from the shadowy forest. The moonlight seemed to brighten their almost unnaturally emerald irises, which glowed stunningly against the black sclerae. almost blood-like faded stains traced the outer corners of their eyes down to the jaw. Their tail swished over the leaves, the dulled blade at the end barely even scratching the ground, as they walk over and sit beside Vizerxa.

"... you're new," Vizerxa says after a few moments of silence, watching the Draconic analytically,  trying to figure out why they were familiar, "I don't recognize you. Who are you?"

"I just returned to this Realm. I'm Clara Ventus," the Draconic smiles softly, voice quiet and oddly calming, "who are you?"

Vizerxa stiffened, looking at Clara almost sharply. It... she couldn't... why had Clara left in the first place? "I'm.. Vizerxa," Vizerxa says, deciding to share their name.

Clara smiles, "it's a pleasure to meet you, Vizerxa."

"...you as well, Clara," Vizerxa looked away, watching the river again, now frowning slightly. 

The two sat in comfortable silence for a few minutes, before Clara spoke again, "you... somewhat remind me of one of my old friends... I can't place why. Though, she has been on my mind since I came back. No one seems to know anyone by her name, so... I hope she's in the Spirit Realm, enjoying the afterlife," Clara looks almost mournful, a bittersweet smile on her face.

"So do I. What was her name? I... may recognize it, I've been around for a while," Vizerxa asks, almost hoping Clara didn't say her own old name, yet wishing she would. Vizerxa, deep down, hoped that Clara had forgotten her. That Clara wouldn't know what she had become, what she had caused, since Clara's dissapearance. But at the same time, Vizerxa didn't think she'd be able to handle her oldest friend having forgotten her.

"Her name was Vivere Umbra Mortem, the middle child of the Mortem Family, back before Amist Memoriam apparently fell..." Clara smiles sadly, "We used to visit this river often... I hope she's alright."

Vizerxa stares at Clara for a few moments, almost torn, before speaking, "she sounds familiar. It's been centuries since I've heard that name though, I'm sorry," She didn't let any of her emotions show through her voice, maintaining her calm and neutral tone.

"Not surprised... thank you, though," Clara looks mournful as she stares into the river.

"... would you like to talk about her?" Vizerxa asks, "memories can be helpful."

"that's a good idea. Hm... Vivere was a nice being. Calm, always was reading, strived for perfection... though I'm pretty sure that was because of Fractal. Vivere's wings got severely injured in an accident, she never really said what happened exactly, so Fractal 'assigned' us together in hopes I could help Vivere learn to be a Zypherin, since we both had wing problems. Honestly, I don't think Vivere needed to be a Zypherin, she didn't seem all that interested anyway. I feel bad for her, honestly, all things considered... a middle child, with Fractal as a parent, and unable to use the 'classic Mortem powers'..."

Vizerxa listened to Clara talk, frowning slightly. Clara... definitely sounded different than when they knew each other in life. But she still seemed so similar. A memory she needed. Trae wondered how much she had changed, herself.

"Vivere was incredibly smart, and a lot of beings would say she was 'moody' and 'untalkative'. Though, she'd speak if she had something to say, she never said too much, yet didn't say too little. She also had mild haphephobia, fear of touch. For a being who couldn't use shadow powers, she was a lot like darkness; calm, quiet, unbothered and elegant," Clara smiled softly while she spoke, a distant, bittersweet look in her eyes as she recalls the being.

Vizerxa nods slightly while listening. It was... strange... to hear someone voice their perspective of her, even if it was of... back then. But she didn't want to interrupt Clara.

"Her main power was cyrokenisis, but she kept trying to use shadow manipulation. She tried so hard, and would only get hurt. But she never gave up... I admired her, a lot. She was like a sister to me... I don't know why, but I feel like you and her would get along well," Clara glances at Vizerxa.

Vizerxa chuckles quietly, leaning back and tilting her head to look at the sky, "I'm sure we would... Her name means 'To Live in the Shadow of Death', right? That must have been a burden of it's own."

"yeah... Oddly enough, death seemed to stay away from her," Clara chuckles. Trae tries not to wince at the irony of that as Clara glances back at Vizerxa, amusement in her eyes, "Your name means 'Bringer of', right? Bringer of what?" 

"not important," Vizerxa waves a hand dismissively, though she smiles slightly, wanting to know more about what had happened to her friend since they were alive, "anyway, tell me about your story. What're you like?"

"Well.... When I was alive, I was a Zypherin. The 'Flightless Zypherin of Amist Memoriam', all that fun stuff. I had- have, actually- two younger siblings, and uh... I'm blind. and flightless, though I have wings," Clara says, "I bake, and cook, don't really do much else outside that... I'm a Viclere now, also. I had sight when I was alive, don't really want to talk about how I lost it though."

"understandable," Vizerxa nods, mentally realizing why Clara hadn't made the connection of Vizerxa's appearance to Vivere, and Clara's black scelera, "that must have been hard. But you fought through everything. I respect that."

Clara nods, "I did, I suppose... and thank you. For... everything, really."

"All I did was listen," Vizerxa looks at Clara questioningly.

"Listening goes a long way, Vizerxa," Clara points out, "Hm... is there anything you want to say about yourself, and your life?"

"well... I have two adopted children, probably the best kids I've met, and... I'm part of the Fallen Pantheon. God of Strategy," they decide to mention her pantheon-allignment. If Clara found out she was Vivere at any point, Vizerxa wanted the information to be from herself.

"Really?" Clara blinks in surprise, "that's... Interesting. what's it like?"

"Meh. Light Song is a tyrant, and things are normally... chaotic," Vizerxa says vaguely.

Clara nods in understanding.

The two sat in silence for a while longer, just listening to the river and the forest, until the sun started to rise.

"It's getting late, isn't it," Clara tilts her head, "we should be heading home."

"yeah, we should," Vizerxa stands up, offering a hand to Clara to help her up.

Clara smiles, taking Vizerxa's hand, and stands up, 'looking' up at the taller Deity, "I hope to see you again some time, Vizerxa. It was a pleasure meeting you."

"you as well, Clara. I'm glad I got to talk to you," Vizerxa says smiling softly, almost mournfully, before turning to walk away, "and maybe we will."

As Vizerxa walks away, navigating the forest, she knew one thing; she didn't want Clara to find out who she was. She didn't want to hurt Clara with the knowledge of who, of what, Vivere had become.

Though, she was glad to meet her old friend again, and be reassured Clara was fine.

Clara listened to Vizerxa walk away, smiling mournfully, "she really is a lot like Vivere, isn't she... Shattered mirror, broken frame, I suppose. I do hope I meet Vivere again soon, I've refound everyone else," she murmurs as she turns and walks away.

She knew Vizerxa couldn't be her old friend, despite the similarities, though; Vizerxa didn't have wings, and had willingly touched her. They also sounded different, but.... that's what 500 years does to a being. Though, Vivere wouldn't join Light Song.

Clara walked away, carefully finding her way through the forest, as she thought about Vivere and Vizerxa.

[absolutebl]

Top 10 Best BLs on iQIYI

Love For Love's Sake

Korea 2024

This isekai KBL is about a man who must win a game by convincing a reserved teen outcast to fall in love with him. Of course, that teen represents himself and his own unhappiness. Like many queer narratives, this show is actually about self worth, trust, and found family, and it is VERY on the nose. But I don’t expect subtlety from my BL and I enjoyed it's truly lovely redemption arc and earnest performances. While I found the narrative a touch disjointed with overworked filming angles and poorer than average captions, this is certainly much better than early KBL in terms of consistency of tone, script, and immersion. Highly rewatchable and charming, which counts for a lot.

Blueming

Korea 2022

It’s a tiny bit dark and a tiny bit bittersweet, almost too honest to a university experience and first love for BL, but if you want your mind ever-so-slightly messed with and your intimacy hellishly sweet, this BL will do it for you in a coldly distant manner, while bitch slapping you with self worth issues. I wasn’t into it at first, but the leads are solid and by ep 5 it got really good, becoming a narrative about self discovery meets understanding and accepting others people’s flaws without hurting them. Ultimately we witnessed two characters maturing because of each other and their mutual affection, without that affection becoming the conflict point. Instead, tension was built around other aspects of identity, popularity, and self-worth. While production values were a touch lower than usual for Korea, Blueming included decent kisses and other forms of intimacy and a satisfying ending plus there’s judicious and very elegant use of tropes, this is a great BL.

Laws of Attraction

Thai 2023

This is a great gay suspense thriller with several solid couples, fun plot, killer characters, queer rep, and a happy ending. Charn may be my favorite lead character in all BL. However, this show is not entirely BL, more on the fringe, like Manner of Death. There are several "singing incidents" and this pair is a little weak in the chemistry arena, but it's tons of fun. All the triggers tho.

Love Tractor

Korea 2023

Most of this country-set BL had me feral for the beautiful broken city boy and his hot young farmer. Hyung romance, puppy/cat pairing, open frankness meets jaded reserve, language play, water hose frolicking, only one bed, just all my favorite tropes. This show was basically a light-weight Restart After Come Back Home and I’m not even slightly mad about that. But (and you knew there was a “but” coming) something about the cringe of the final 2 eps and the impermanence of the ending (both of which highlight the fact that ultimately these 2 are I’ll-suited: too different and too far apart) left me with the feeling that they probably won’t last as a couple. However, in this case, rare for me, I forgive it this finale for my love of the rest.

Unintentional Love Story

Korea 2023

A boy who just lost his job due to faked corruption charges accidentally discovers his ex-boss's favorite artist, now a recluse. Evil manager offers him his job back if he can convince the artist to rejoin society. Instead, they fall in love. I found the artist a bit stiff and reserved but Gongchan (maknae of B1A4) is a fucking GIFT - he carried this show (which I do not expect from the idol element). He was luminous with extraordinarily expressive eyes, just drown in the emoting abyss. The external conflict, social tension and pressure is complex and beautifully executed, plus Korea gave us legit side dishes (NOT a love triangle, hally-fucking-luya).

Bon Appetit

Korea 2023

Romance between an office worker the man from his past next door who cooks well. It was very sweet and cute tale of food as love in the All the Liquors family of KBL. I’m not wild about it, I did enjoy it, I was happy to have it show up on my dash, but ultimately it will simply become one of the KBL crowd.

My Only 12%

Thai 2022

Y-novel adaptation (author Afterday - Bad Buddy) and strong little BL romance (tailor made for SantaEarth) about holding onto first love and childhood, but it’s buried under waffling family drama and formless side characters so that it took a lot of digging to get to - still I recommend it for the killer softly domestic couple chemistry.

A Breeze of Love

Korea 2023

Tsundere insomniac grump reunited with his sunshine jock ex (human sleeping pill) who now hates him. Basketball is also involved. While the simplicity of a reunion plot makes this more cohesive than most KBLs, it is a tad stiff and slow, never managing to lift itself out of "pretty and pretty enjoyable" - I liked it but I don’t think I’m going to remember much about it.

Between Us

Thai 2023

Featuring the hugely popular side characters from 2019′s Until We Meet Again, WinTeam, adaptation of the y-novel Hemp Rope. It’s a serviceable series about hot swimmers flirting and dealing with family drama in a sweetly earnest manner, but ultimately it squanders the talent in play. I would’ve preferred a cleaner narrative arc, less angst and more plot, fewer couples, and a shorter series. That said, there’s nothing objectively wrong, sub-standard, or off-putting about this show. And it has lots of consent and other good qualities. It’s fine.

Dear Doctor I'm Coming for Your Soul

Thai 2022

This is a romance between a doctor trying to save his patients and a reaper who is both his enemy and (eventual) lover (basically the genius premise of a gay Doom at Your Service). High concept looks good on you, Thailand. It’s lovely to see KarnNat back on screen together and they are still great, and Karn is just as painfully beautiful as ever. I enjoyed this one more than it’s ending deserved, and the best I can say is that it’s not strictly HEA but if you’re okay with Life: Love on the Line, you’ll be okay with this BL.

(source)

This list updated Spring 2024, not responsible for cool stuff that aired on iQIYI (or was taken off the platform) after that date. Some stuff on iQIYI is also on other platforms and if I loved it, I listed it there not here.

This is part of a series continued here:

[rosyfingered-moon]

Twenty Questions

@angryteapott Thanks for the tag! <3

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

35!

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

748,763

What fandoms do you write for?

Mostly television: kdramas and cdramas, and some English-language shows. The only films I have written for are Decision to Leave and Cyrano de Bergerac.

What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

All of them are Mr. Queen:

Mrs. Queen - A rushed fix-it that I began one day after the show ended and then published daily for two months straight. It was a super fun writing exercise bc I tried to work in as many reader prompts as possible to salvage all of our broken hearts after the horrid ending. It was also the unfortunate beginning of my haphazard style of posting first chapters with no clue what the rest of the story will be. (100k)

The White Grass- Non-magic AU. I really enjoyed writing this because 1. it's my only properly beta read story and it was sooo fun to go over things with Sarah in advance! and 2. it features a noncon scene that was really divisive and led to a lot of very interesting discussions about power and consent on Twitter. (74k)

The Raw Ingredients - Bong-hwan finally returns to Joseon, but not as a queen, but a chambermaid!! So she has to scheme her way back to Cheoljong with the help of Minister Kim Soyong. I loved writing this, it was pure wish fulfillment and lowkey I think the most hilarious way a season two could have gone (if I may toot my own horn). @lady-guts has made theeee most beautiful fanbinding of it which has made me appreciate it more <33 (41k)

And I, and Silence - Soyong wakes back up alone inside her body with no memory of what has happened and has to fend for herself. I loved writing Kim Byeong-in's pov and also Jo Hwa-jin's pov and also their freaky love story!! (99k)

Whatever Souls Are Made Of - After almost drowning Soyong ends up with the complete memories of her future self (Bong-hwan). So suddenly she is both a Joseon woman and a South Korean man and has to grapple with that. Also there's a sweeping romance crossing time and space. (61k)

Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

I try to respond to all, because I think those connections is what makes fandom worth engaging in. Currently behind on answering though :(

What is a fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

I'm a HEA gal, but my Kingdom fic Something Rotten ends with hate sex that isn't maybe only hate but more hate than love. (Also, at least one of the main characters is gonna get eaten by zombies in the future.) I wrote a short My Liberation Notes piece called These Winter Fields where I let Mr. Gu attend Alcoholics Anonymous, but his recovery is left open-ended. Writing it felt very bittersweet to me personally, as someone who has been close to an addict.

What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Most of them have tooth-rottingly happy endings! But the ones that felt the most healing to me were my The Hour fic not even the rain because I had been hurting for a decade over its cancellation, and my Beyond Evil fic Splinters where I unfridged Kang Min-jeong and let her live a vibrant poly life without having to die to fuel other people's manpain. Also very much enjoyed saving Comrade Gu in my Crash Landing on You fic Allegretto, not so much for his own sake as for Seo Dan, who deserves to have everything she wants.

Do you get hate on fics?

Not really. Sometimes people have expressed disappointment. I think the most hate I got was a person on Twitter who got really upset that I wrote a ship they didn't like and in a way they didn't like, but I don't think that had very much to do with my actual fic (since they hadn't read it).

Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I do! Mostly het. I think I have progressed from more tender depictions to, like, trying to hone in on the slightly weird or awkward parts of sex, and also to describe the scene more straightforwardly and let people's imagination do the work for them?

Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

A Six Flying Dragons/My Country: The New Age crossover, and a Rookie Historian/Sungkyunkwan Scandal crossover. Neither feels very crazy to me because the universes fit so well (the two former because they feature the same historical people and events, and the two latter because they are both fluffy fusion sageuks with perky heroines).

Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Yes, or at least reposted without credit.

Have you ever had a fic translated?

No, but I would love if that happened!!!

What's your all-time favorite ship?

Gotta go with Goo Hae-ryung and Min U-won because they are sooo delightful to write, really grew on me (I didn't ship them immediately), and the fandom are such lovely people!

What's a wip you want to finish, but doubt you ever will?

I hope I will finish all of them in time.

What are your writing strengths?

Funny dialogue! (At least I think it's funny.) Readers mostly seem to appreciate the heart-wrenching confession oneliners.

What are your writing weaknesses?

Pacing, repetitive descriptions, that classic hyperfocus on the main ship to the detriment of other characters, and action scenes. There's probably many cultural misconceptions as well, especially since I mostly write historical pieces (ranging from the Joseon Dynasty and Tang Dynasty to 1950s Britain). I try to research, but being a foreigner means that there will always be a gap.

Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

Since I'm not a native English speaker, all my dialogue is in another language! In the kdrama fics I sometimes include familial terms, honorifics, and other forms of address in transliterated Korean, because I think that helps remind people reading it of what the sentence "actually" sounds like within the fiction, and also maybe allows them to recall what those particular words sound like when spoken by the actors of show. It gives the appearance that the fic only translates the character's "real," embodied, Korean conversation and keeps the readers immersed. At least that's my intention.

First fandom you wrote for?

On AO3 it was for Supernatural, since 15x20 enraged me enough to finally post something. But I also wrote Buffy and Harry Potter fic on FF.net when I was a kid. Including Snape/reader inserts, which I recently told a friend about and she gave me the most repulsed look I have ever seen :)

Favorite fic you've written?

I don't actually know!! Whatever Souls Are Made Of is probably one of the best pieces I have written, but all of them are dear to me in different ways.

Tagging @drivingsideways and @comfect and @elderflowergin and anyone else who wants to do it!