#a giant leap of faith

[erinwantstowrite]

jaybin bear cub,,,,

i literally couldn't stop myself from doodling this

[gammija]

ive been trying for 30 mins to write a post about why the Web's plan is still confusing, but I think I should face the truth and admit to myself that it's not that it makes no sense, it's just... so convoluted

[the-music-keeper]

Objective #8 is done, and I honestly don't think I'm going to find an American advisor whose research interests better match my own than Dr. Clark. I'm going to acquire the books I think are most relevant and skim through them, but in the last five years he's worked on several projects related to flamenco. He also has a clear interest in Granados and what looks like a particular affinity for compiling biographies.

[syoddeye]

consequence / ink

price x f!reader | 1.6k words series directory tags: alcohol, miscommunication (resolved) a/n: john is a down bad, as the youths would say. thank you to my beloved @/pfhwrittes for britpicking. ☕

her cast is gone. a sleeve hides the arm, but it’s clearly off.

john holds the door for a customer, unsure if he ought to take another step or retreat while he can. he tried to compose a text on the flight, on the drive, in the shower. a heads-up, a ‘hello, i’ve returned, i’m sorry, don't worry about my face when you see it’—but he couldn’t. somehow, he thought simply turning up would be better.

when she spots him, the look on her face says a text would’ve been the right call.

ah, well.

she glares over the other man’s shoulder as he pays. he’s truly awful because it only makes him happier to see her. if she didn’t care, her face would be a blank slate.

the man takes a short eternity to move to the end of the bar. john checks to ensure he isn’t holding up a queue he knows isn’t there, if only to buy another second—

“yurbeck.” she blurts out.

“sorry?”

slower, she repeats herself, “you’re back.”

“i am. you’re healed up.” 

“you’re not.”

the black eye he sports is ugly but faded. yellowish, with ugly splotches of blood still pooled beneath the skin. he’d like to say, you should see the other guy, but the bastard’s probably jaguar shit by now. instead, he shrugs. “looks worse than it feels. can we grab a drink when you’re off?”

she glances and frowns at her coworker, who’s clearly listening in over the noise of the espresso machine and sighs. her uncertainty is as plain as day.

“no.”

alright. damage control. he can fix this, he thinks, heart crashing into his gut. he didn’t leave her on bad terms. “listen, i know—”

she interrupts a second time. “we’ll go to mine.”

his mouth shuts, teeth clacking. he won’t argue with that.

~~

before you leave the café, you check your last exchange.

>> thanks for dinner the other night. i had a wonderful time. unfortunately, i won’t be by for a bit.

> ominous > prison?

>> not quite. work. i won’t be able to text.

> well don’t be gone too long > i might forget your order

it’s ridiculous, in hindsight, all your worrying over a man you assumed ghosted you. a regular you took a stupid leap of faith for. the shopping trip was a way to test the waters, and despite an awkward intensity he seemed desperate to hide and his bad jokes, john charmed you. even when you extended the exam to your place, he passed. no snide comments about cece or the decor. he helped with cooking without being asked. washed the dishes. it was a wonderful time. he said it. you believed it.

but two months isn’t ‘a bit’. it’s a disappearing act.

you say as much, as annoyed with yourself as you are with him. he quietly concedes he could have explained better. you tell him friends don’t go MIA for weeks. he laughs.

~~

“funny you should say that.”

“what?”

john stares hard at her profile as they walk. this part is always hard. pivotal. he puts it simply: “i’m in the military—special forces. that’s why i was ‘MIA’, as you put it.”

her brows raise, but she doesn’t falter. “oh.”

his lip curls. he’s been cussed out, fawned over, and ditched entirely for sharing his profession. no one usually reacts so little. it’s a divisive topic. everyone’s got an opinion. 

“that’s it? oh?” john echoes, trying to tease something out. he once listened to her harsh critique of the illegibility of packaging at the café—he cannot imagine her indifference as genuine. “you can ask questions, y’know.”

“okay. where were you? what were you doing?”

crawling on my belly through mud and fending off giant cockroaches. shooting. getting shot at.

“seeing the sights, meeting people.”

that withering glare returns, but it’s shorter-lived this time. she huffs. “see, i assumed ‘special forces’ means it’s the type of military business you don’t get answers about.”

“yes and no. i can’t compromise my clearance.”

“what can you tell me?”

he smiles when she sneaks a look, irritation giving way to curiosity. “i sunburn very easily.”

she snorts. “no way, not with that complexion.”

“and, i have thirty, forty mosquito bites where the sun doesn’t shine.”

john’s bruised cheek hurts from grinning as she laughs. this is the first time he’s heard it uninhibited, neither bitten back nor politely smothered by a hand. he needs to brush up on his humor. he needs to hear that sound more often.

“sorry. i’m a mess.”

john aligns their shoes and removes his jacket. it’s hardly messy. her flat appears mostly unchanged, except for the small mountain of citrus on her dining table. a single banana. she starts to sweep it into a plastic bin, but he catches a stray orange, and his thumb drags over an odd indentation. he turns it in hand, eyebrows pitching at the sight of a rose etched into the skin.

“is this…?” 

he watches her press a machine into a foam insert, then hurriedly zip a case shut. the look on her face clearly says he wasn’t supposed to see that. 

she takes the orange and shrugs. “something i’m having fun with. a new hobby.”

“solid work for a hobby.”

“don’t tease.”

“you’d know if i was.” 

she excuses herself to change after setting the bin aside, stepping over a wary cece. the cat stands guard at the mouth of the hall. unimpressed. he can practically hear the and where have you been?

john gives the cat a fond but tight smile. he’ll need to get in good with her again, too, it seems. he checks the water bowl before settling onto the couch. cece follows to investigate, her tiny black nose tapping his knuckles when he offers a hand. 

her aloofness swiftly melts after he coaxes her into his lap, though he suspects that the subsequent stabbing of her kneading paws is her brand of punishment. little thing seems to relish it.

“you can move her if she’s too much.”

his face lifts, and he wonders if the cat feels the palpitations in his chest.

given what he’s only just learned, he shouldn't be surprised, but the patchwork tattoos decorating her arms steal his breath anyway. the impulse to touch is instant. to trace every fine line and jealously ask where she had them done and by whom. 

he grips the arm of the couch hard, and cece pauses her biscuit-making, eyes half-lidded and judgmental. dismissing the cat, he nonchalantly places a throw pillow over his lap and scrubs a hand over his face.

the plot thickens.

“nice ink. didn’t realize you had any. makes sense.”

“yep. twenty-one. mm. no. twenty-two.”

far more than what the shirt shows. “any damage?” 

her head tilts as she cracks the refrigerator, pulling two bottles by their necks. “nope. don’t got anything there.”

john takes a beer as she plops down. she tucks her legs beneath, and he studies the artfully drawn black shapes on the one arm: a network of barbed thorns and flowers, a woman contorted into a skull, a mouse sleeping in a sardine tin, a stamp, and several stars.

“do you have any?” she asks, taking a swig.

nothing as lovely as hers. the first and last instance john had time to sit for a piece, he was clean-shaven and further from the thick of it. but she’s shown him hers; returning the favor is only polite. “one.” he sets the bottle aside to ruck up his left sleeve. she shifts, and the tips of his ears redden. fuck he wishes it wasn’t so—

“traditional. ha, had you pinned for the type. cute.”

cute. the ink has faded into muted tones, the lines softened. the mermaid’s once coy smile blurs into a vague shape, and now that he looks at it, the anchor’s shank is slightly crooked. the subtle, natural distortions of time make the mermaid perched in the curved arm of the anchor appear as aged as his face.

“can i?” 

she extends a hand. has she touched him before? intentionally?

“yes.”

her fingers follow the lines without an ounce of hesitation or hovering. the corner of her mouth quirks when john instinctively squeezes his bicep, the mermaid’s blue tail flexing under her thumb. he can’t tell what she’s thinking despite watching her pretty eyes. he simply laments he doesn’t have more to show her if only to keep her this close.

john’s focus narrows to the heat of her hand as it moves. he imagines five perfect ovals burning into his arm hair where she grabs and adjusts her view. that his skin might melt, and her palm would graft to his limb for all time, barring surgical intervention.

the first words out of her mouth in a minute are a bucket of cold water.

“six inches, right?”

“what?”

her gaze flicks up. “from the tip to the base?” a prolonged beat passes before she adds, “or, i guess, to the fins of her tail?”

she’s gonna be the death of me. 

“i think so.”

“it’s aged well.”

“ah. you’re taking the piss.”

“you’d know if i was.” she echoes. “i’m serious. i’m guessing it’s fifteen or twenty years old? it could look worse.” her nails scritch in a tight circle for a half-second, long enough that he might combust, but she pulls away and swirls her beer. “why’d you stop at one?”

“busy schedule. and i don’t want to be too identifiable.”

“yes. the chops are the subtler choice.” she smiles behind the bottle. “now i’m taking the piss.”

john thinks of precisely three responses to her cheek, none of which make it to his tongue. he sips slowly, catching on a slip of skin when she stretches, the hem of her shirt lifting just so. a tempting black line practically hooks his eye before it disappears.

“oh, you’re funny. got me curious, though. which one was your first?”

her legs straighten, and she pushes to her feet. “it’ll be easier if i show you.”

[theglassofmiddleearth]

Imagine arriving to the siege of Gondor with Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas.

Orc: 'Late as usual, Pirate-scum! There's knife-work here that needs doing.'

Orc: 'Come on, you sea rats! Get off your ships!'

Aragorn leaps over the side of the ship, brandishing his sword. Legolas and Gimli nimbly land on the ground while Y/N trips over a rope and lands on her behind.

Y/N: Uh... noone saw that.

Y/N scrambles up with the help of Legolas.

Aragorn draws his his sword, advancing towards the orcs.

Gimli: 'There's plenty for the four of us! May the best Dwarf win!'

The legions of ghost men charge the orcs, over running them. They storm the area with Aragorn leading them. Y/N begins to draw near the front lines.

Y/N: 'Fourteen!'

Legolas: 'Fifteen, Sixteen!'

Gimli: 'Seventeen!'

Y/N: 'ARE YOU GUYS CHEATING?'

Y/N dodges a sword before spinning around and slicing the Orc's head off. She draws an extra blade, advancing towards the Oliphaunts.

Y/N spots Gothmog and a grin of malice appears on her lips.

Y/N: 'Hello there Lieutenant.'

She slices his axe wielding arm off before stabbing one blade through his chest. Y/N sneers.

Y/N: 'Seems like you need a hand.'

Y/N draws back both blades and slices his head off cleanly.

Y/N: 'Too Bad!'

Aragorn: 'Legolas!'

Y/N: 'Wanna go for a ride?'

Legolas and Y/N grin at each other, racing towards the tusk of the giant creature, scaling up it's ivory tusks and body.

Legolas: 'Thirty-three, thirty-four.'

Y/N: 'Thirty-five Thirty-six. I'm going to lose count..

She whips her head around to look for Legolas.

Y/N: 'Bring it down Legolas!'

Legolas swings to the rope holding the saddle up, slicing through it. The large saddle falls, along with the people riding the Oliphant.

Y/N: 'Those were mine too. I helped.'

Legolas laughs before running to the head of the Oliphant and shooting three arrows into its head, bringing the beast crashing down.

Gimli: 'That still only counts at one!'

Y/N bursts into laughter, a hand on her hip.

Slowly, Minas Tirith is taken back. The orcs are driven back and the city is swamped by the dead army. As the battle ends, The Dead King finds his way to Aragorn

The King of the Dead: 'Release us.'

Gimli: 'Bad idea. Very handy in a tight spot' these lads. Despite the fact they're dead.'

The King of the Dead: 'You gave us your word.'

Aragorn: 'That I did. I hold your oath fulfilled. Go. Be at peace.'

The wind wafts over the ghostly army, seemingly blowing away the men like dust.

Y/N grimaces and plops down. Drawing her hand away from her side.

Legolas: 'Y/N? What is wrong?'

Y/N: 'Nothing.'

She winces.

Y/N: 'Just got a nick.'

Legolas quickly kneels down, scooping her up.

Y/N: 'Wow look at you, ever princely, are you. I can walk y'know.

Legolas rolls his eyes, starting off to the city.

Legolas: 'I know.'

Y/N: 'Do you not have any questions for me?'

Legolas: 'No my lady. I have faith in you. You have led us thus far. Frodo and Sam must be fine for you to be here with us.'

Y/N sighs,

Y/N: 'I hope so, I don't know if I made the right decision.'

Legolas: 'Rest, you have done enough for today. Rest, my lady.'

Y/N:'If I didn't know any better, I'd say you held affection for me Ernil Nin (My prince.)'

Legolas: 'Rest.'

Legolas holds back a smile, continuing his pace to Minas Tirith.

[smallgodseries]

Anything can spawn a god if it matters enough to someone. If it is the focus of enough devotion and belief. Anything. Hedjet reminds herself of that when the other gods laugh at her for being too narrow, too archaic, too small to matter. She exists because faience was a giant technological leap for potters, a new innovation that was, in its time, as exciting and revolutionary as any computer or medical breakthrough. She changed the world, in her own breakable way.

Anything can spawn a god, and any god can change the world, and she still has her faithful.

The sincere always do.

One way or another, the sincere always do.

[burntheedges]

Summer Stuff-My-Inbox Fic Rec List (Part 2)

I can't believe it's already September? What the hell, honestly. Thank you all for sending me your fics again!

Remember to check out Part 1, too.

The list has 57 more Pedro-character fics posted since June 1, organized by character and then alphabetically by author. Mind all tags and warnings! I've noted word count (we've got a range!), whether it's part of a series, and pairings. Let's get reading and reblogging!

Characters in this rec list: Dave York, Dieter Bravo, Din Djarin, Ezra (Prospect), Frankie Morales, Javier Gutierrez, Javier Peña, Joel Miller, Marcus Acacius, Marcus Moreno, Marcus Pike, Pero Tovar, Tim Rockford

...

Dave York

melt by @sizzlingcloudmentality | 960 words | Dave x f!reader summary: wine drunk and with fresh croissants from the bakery you're having French breakfast and sex with Dave. | Daphne mentioned being proud of this one particulary because of the smut!! 😏

Dieter Bravo

Eros & Psyche by @schnarfer | ~16k, complete | Dieter x f!reader summary: Dieter is a modern day Greek God Eros. We’re going full existential dread rom-com, actually. | I can't wait to read this!

Golden Girl by @whocaresstillthelouvre | 2.9k | Dieter x f!reader summary: What happens when you discover your husband has been cheating on you? You call his best friend to help comfort you.

Starlet by whocaresstillthelouvre | 3.7k | Dieter x f!reader summary: Your husband has a big movie premiere, sure he looks great, but his co-star looks even better.

Din Djarin

Fifteen Weeks by whocaresstillthelouvre | 5k | Din x f!reader summary: It's been fifteen weeks since Din Djarin first entered your life, now you can't imagine it without him. You take a leap of faith in your relationship and visit him at his farm. | this is part 2! Don't miss part 1!

Oath Broken and Soul Bound by @whxtedreams | 1.8k, wip | Din x OFC Witch hunter!Din x OFC!Witch, from Flora: It's a Witch AU, fantasy and forbidden love. It's very new, only one chapter out but I have very big plans. I have pretty much the entire fic mapped out. It also has Ezra, Frankie and Joel as characters. You can learn more about their characters here in the character study i did for them. This is my passion project, I have so much love for them and I can’t wait to share my story in more detail!

Tales from the Dark Garden by @hapan-in-exile | 9k | Din x f!reader summary: The reader is a courtesan at the Dark Garden, Coruscant’s most prestigious pleasure house, where you encounter the Mandalorian.

Touchstone by @sawymredfox | 2.6k | Din x f!reader summary: Things are not always what they seem. They have a meaning. They have a reason behind them, private and cherished.

Ezra (Prospect)

There are Other Fish in the Sea by @beefrobeefcal | 4 parts | Frankie x f!reader, Ezra x f!reader summary: an alternate ending (and continuation) of another of Beefro's fics, where Frankie messes up and Ezra comes along.

Joel x Ezra

who knows where the time goes by @sixhours | 11k | Joel x Ezra (Prospect) summary: It's New Year's 2027 and the dads are going through it. An i know you by heart one-shot.

Frankie Morales

Like the Rain by @jennaispunk | 2.9k | Frankie x f!reader summary: Frankie has something to say….will you listen? | Jenna said this one is her first Frankie fic!! and a challenge because it has more spice, which is fun!

There are Other Fish in the Sea by @beefrobeefcal | 4 parts | Frankie x f!reader, Ezra x f!reader summary: an alternate ending (and continuation) of another of Beefro's fics, where Frankie messes up and Ezra comes along.

Tide by whocaresstillthelouvre | 1.2k | Frankie x f!reader summary: Frankie Morales is capable of almost anything… except not cumming in his jeans when he thinks about you, the pretty clerk at the grocery store he always buys his giant jugs of laundry detergent at.

Javier Gutierrez

KEPT by @beefrobeefcal | 5.3k | Javi x f!reader summary: You might just have bitten off more than you can chew by possibly becoming Javi G's sugar baby.

Rhapsody in Blue by @maggiemayhemnj | 5.5k | Javi x f!reader summary: Javi G takes you to the Oscars. Takes you to the Vanity Fair party. Takes you back to the Chateau Marmont. Then just takes you. | Maggie said this one took her out of her comfort zone, and she ahd fun delving into more spice!

Javier Peña

An End to Drought by @almostfoxglove | 5.4k | Javi x f!reader summary: The future of your family's homestead hangs in the balance as Javier Peña comes home in the middle of a drought.

Dispose of Me by whocaresstillthelouvre | 1.8k | Javi x f!reader summary: Javier Peña needs you… and you're moving away in two weeks.

Dusk by @the-orange-tabby-cat | 8.7k | Javi x f!reader summary: Javier sees you again years after the end of your love affair. Torn between the memories of what happened then and what is now, you both face the weight of your actions from Bogotá to Madrid.

Hold my hand by @milla-frenchy | 4.1k | Javi x f!reader summary: a stranger saves your life. Or your and Javi’s love story.

I'll Carry You by almostfoxglove | 2 of 3 parts, 13.6k | Javi x f!reader summary: You reunite with your childhood best friend when he arrives home from Colombia. Javier's sudden return to your life exhumes buried heartbreak, but he longs to set things right.

Scathed by @dancingtotuyo | 41k, wip | Javi x OFC summary: Javier and Emily experienced the drug war on different fronts in very different ways. Maybe, they’re what the other needs to heal.

Joel Miller

Joel & Ellie, no pairing

happy birthday, baby girl by sixhours | wip | Joel and Ellie summary: Ellie has never had a birthday. Joel can fix that.

Joel x Ezra

who knows where the time goes by sixhours | 11k | Joel x Ezra (Prospect) summary: It's New Year's 2027 and the dads are going through it. An i know you by heart one-shot.

x reader or x OFC

A summer with the Millers by @milla-frenchy | 4.2k, wip | Joel x f!reader x Tommy summary: you come back to your father's house for summer vacation and want to get closer to your crush and dad's best friend, Tommy Miller. His brother Joel is gonna help you to reach your goal.

Always in my Heart by @mermaidgirl30 | 1.2k | Joel x f!reader

summary: Losing a pet is never easy, but you’re not alone because Joel is right there with you, keeping you afloat.

BDSMaid by @mountainsandmayhem | wip | Joel x f!reader summary: After recently graduating from university, your best friend offers you a job cleaning luxury homes for clients you’ll never know. It’s only temporary and a good way to save money for when you go back to get your law degree. That’s what you’re promised at least. Easy. Simple. Mundane. That is, until one of your clients is home and everything that you felt was missing in your life starts to fall into place. This goes against the NDA you signed and you could get fired. Or worse, you could fall in love.

Cover Me Up by almostfoxglove | 97.7k, finished | Joel x f!reader summary: After you spare the lives of two kids who break into your isolated cabin in the woods, they lead you back to their settlement. You intend to get in, trade for valuable supplies, and get out, but end up staying. Four years later, you're a solitary but respected pillar of Jackson's close-knit community when Joel Miller shows up, kid in tow. You think nothing of him or the kid. You like your quiet life. Too bad it won't stay quiet for long. Or: Joel and Ellie make you human again. | Freya's first series!

Dark Shades of Innocence Lost by mermaidgirl30 | finished | Joel x f!reader summary: After your friends drag you out to Club Inferno on a Friday night, you meet an unexpected man with dark brown eyes. That man is Joel Miller, who turns out to be the owner of the club. The menace that will turn your life upside down. After not dating for a couple of years, Joel finds out and strikes up a proposition for you. Keep coming back and he’ll make sure you experience pleasure like you’ve never felt before.

Fragile State by @galway-girlatwork | 2.5k | Joel x OFC Tara summary: The aftermath of a traumatic car accident leaves a family struggling with fear and uncertainty. The emotional toll weighing them all down as they try to find some normalcy which they all know is impossible until he wakes up. Vulnerability and desperate needs for the man who is the center of their lives to remember who they are and the life he had with them. | the author mentioned this way of writing a story was new, which is very fun!

Halcyon by @justagalwhowrites | ch 16, 110k so far | Joel x f!reader summary: When your life falls apart, you find yourself back in your hometown of Austin, Texas for the first time in more than a decade. Eager to make your own way after a rough divorce, you reconnect with your high school best friend Joel Miller - a man you never thought would be in your life again. Things have changed since your falling out just before you left for college but friendship with Joel comes easy. His life isn't in any better shape than your own and the two of you make a vow to get your acts together - personal, professional and romantic - in the span of a year. But will your burgeoning connection make it so you can figure everything out or will your history together get in the way?

Her by milla-frenchy | 3.2k | Joel x f!reader summary: after Joel confides one of his fantasies to you one day, you make it come true. | her first kinda sub!Joel with Joel realizing a fantasy. 😏

In Need of a Top Up by @tateypots | 1.5k | Joel x f!reader summary: Joel likes calling you his wife and you like hearing it.

In pain and heartache. In comfort and love. by whxtedreams | 2.5k | Joel x f!reader summary: They were so desperate to hold each other after tasting life without one another.

It Tastes of Magic by sawymredfox | 12k | Joel x f!reader summary: Your grandmother always told you the same thing. Have always salt in handy to spill over your left shoulder. Knock on wood to keep away the bad luck. Don't forget that mint likes to have her space to grow. Actions always speak louder than words. And love as much as you can, because even when it hurts, it makes you stronger. Will she still be right?

Lock the Gate by almostfoxglove | 23k+, wip | Joel x f!reader summary: You're less than enthusiastic when your uncle's partner Frank invites two strangers from the Boston QZ to your compound to trade. Joel Miller proves just as callous as you and brutishly stubborn—but after a cutting first impression, a bloody inconvenience, and a long walk through infested woods, you're not sure if the fire you carry for him is actually hate.

Push it by milla-frenchy | 3.4k | Joel x f!reader summary: you have a secret “relationship” with Joel, your dad's best friend. You know you can't have more, but you can’t resist the idea to provoke him a little.

See How She Rides by @arcanefox207 | 4.4k | Joel x f!reader summary: BoatMechanic!Joel Miller is just doing his job when you show up unannounced to soak up some summer sun. | Ally said she had a lot of fun writing this one and I think we're going to have a lot of fun reading it!!

spin me around by @ace-turned-confused | 2.4k | Joel x f!reader summary: you find a vintage record store full of rare finds, the man behind the counter the rarest of them all. | for the Secret Springs challenge!

Stranger in a Bar by justagalwhowrites | 17.3k | part 2, finished | Joel x f!reader summary: You meet a stranger in a bar, one who is fun and sexy and makes you wonder if the single life is all it's cracked up to be. But there's one big problem: you probably shouldn't be fucking your dad's best friend.

Teach Me How to Play Coach Miller by whocaresstillthelouvre | 3.2k | Joel x f!reader summary: You're home alone, relishing a lazy day when your hot neighbor knocks on your door. Seems his TV is out and he really wants to watch the Rangers game. You know nothing about baseball… maybe he can teach you a thing or two?

Tear You Apart by mermaidgirl30 | wip | Joel x f!reader summary: Joel comes for you late at night. He always does. Always stalks, chases, and prowls after you like a starving wolf. And when he catches you, he devours you, feeds on you like the animal he is. Will you run and hide or will you give into the temptation that calls you into the forest?

Tenacity by whocaresstillthelouvre | 2.3k | Joel x f!reader summary: Joel Miller will never allow himself to take what he wants and you know that. How can a broken shower make him realize it's too late and he's already fallen for you? (Or Joel fucks you on his beat up couch in the QZ.)

The Fallen Warrior by @bluestar22x | 6.7k, wip | Joel x f!reader summary: Joel Miller, once the great archangel named Jaoel, fell from grace many centuries ago. After his brethren take everything from him, he immerses himself in human culture. Careful not to get too close to anyone new, everything changes when Joel finds a nephal (nephilim plural) living on the streets in Austin - the first since his fall. A trusted co-worker (reader) ends up adopting her. But just as the street kid, Ellie Williams, is settling into her new home Heaven’s angels come to town searching for her. They have a plan to use her blood in their battle against Hell, then dispose of her after. Joel can’t allow that. He won’t.

The green flannel shirt by milla-frenchy | 817 words | Joel x f!reader summary: Joel comes back home from work and finds you asleep wearing his shirt.

The Savage and the Sanctuary by justagalwhowrites | 8.3k, wip | Joel x f!reader summary: After the death of his daughter, Joel Miller fell apart. But when searching for answers at the bottom of a bottle and within his own rage doesn't fix it, he resigns himself to working for his brother in private security. It's a job that starts him down the path to stability and a semblance of a life, even if it's not one he particularly wants. At least it does until you show up. The biggest movie star in the world with your newly adopted niece in tow, you throw everything about Joel's life into flux. Is he capable of letting himself feel something again while protecting the only things left in the world that matter?

untitled by @idioticcatss | ~1.5k | Joel x reader sophie mentioned being proud of getting out of a writing slump with this fluffy, smutty fic! some tags: love marks, age gap, pet names, smut

Wings of the Dawn by the-orange-tabby-cat | 49k, wip | Joel x f!reader summary: You are Jackson’s librarian, a doll with good heart, that has your life changed when a handsome man and his kid decides to start again in your small town. Having a hard time ignoring Joel’s dark brown eyes, you found yourself wishing to have him closer as you both navigate through love triangles, teenage drama, city gossip and ghosts from both your pasts.

Woman by dancingtotuyo | 74.6k, finished! | Joel x f!reader summary: Joel Miller returns to Jackson bringing back memories and feelings from 20 years ago, but you refuse fall into the universe’s trap again. Your table is at capacity. Adding another chair will only kill you when they get taken away. | also Em just starting posting a no-outbreak AU of this fic!!

Yearling by justagalwhowrites | 306k, finished! | Joel x f!reader summary: After years of surviving in the wilds of Wyoming after the cordyceps outbreak, you find yourself in Jackson. It's a town filled with friendly faces and the kind of world you hardly remember, let alone can connect with or understand. But one man - Joel Miller, another loner, like you - makes you think that trying to find your place in society again might be worth it.

Yearling No-Outbreak AU by justagalwhowrites | 4.1k, wip | Joel x f!reader summary: When Ellie sees you riding at a rodeo, she knows you have to teach her. A no-outbreak AU of Yearling, where you and Joel find each other in every timeline. Can be read independently as a no-outbreak AU fic.

Marcus Acacius

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Marcus Pike

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Pero Tovar

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...

happy reading and reblogging! 🧡

[cashmakozume]

unspoken

daichi x reader, iwaizumi x reader

543 words (i lied hehe i'm posting it NOW)

iwaizumi's arm around you tightened as the both of you laughed at something oikawa said, something he does out of habit over the months. you leaned into his touch, learning how to find comfort in the small things he does.

you have been dating for six months now, a relationship you took a leap of faith in after a year of finding yourself. the only relationship you had before this was with daichi.

you had always wanted that relationship where your partner was your best friend, and you had that with daichi. the both of you were inseparable, and everyone thought marriage was the path for you. but like they say, good things will come to an end. and that was what happened with you and daichi. there wasn't a big fight or anything, it just ended.

you had different passions, incompatible dreams. and it forced the both of you to mutually end it. of course, it was difficult. you spent five whole years with daichi, learning about each other. those five years intertwined the both of you, and unraveling that took time.

that's when you traveled the world and found yourself again. unlearning habits that weren't yours, navigating through life on your own. you were you, not anyone else.

you first met iwaizumi at the airport. you were still groggy from the red-eye flight you had and you crashed into someone with your trolley. that woke you up instantly, throwing apologies to the victim of your unwarranted trolley pushing. you managed to get the typical meet-cute moment everyone wished they had, at the expense of iwaizumi’s ankles.

"oi makki, that's too big for your mouth." mattsun warned him, his warning falling onto deaf ears as makki still tried to stuff the giant rice roll into his mouth.

you looked up at iwaizumi, thinking that he would look back at you and wink. but he only laughed and pulled you closer.

that's when you realized that it was something you and daichi did.

it was a thing the both of you did whenever someone says anything remotely dirty. you would lock eyes and daichi would give you an inconspicuous wink before the both of you returned to the conversation.

iwaizumi felt your eyes on him and he turned to look at you, before whispering into your ear.

"you okay?" he asked, the smile he had from laughing was still present on his face.

you nodded and leaned against his shoulder, giving him affirmation that you were fine.

you weren't missing daichi. you got over him during the six month mark of your solo journey. you were just missing the language that you built together. the quick eye contact whenever someone does something embarrassing, the shoulder taps whenever things got too cringy, the winking at the mention of a slight innuendo.

that's something you can't change. you are a mosaic of the different people you've met in life, and he was one of them.

but you'll learn all of iwaizumi's habits and temperaments and they'll soon be like second nature to you.

you can never get rid of your past, but that’s okay. with time, you can always build an unspoken language with iwaizumi. something that will solely belong to the both of you.

[felassan]

Just poring over some of the new images. ◕‿◕ DA:TV spoilers under cut.

Elf Warrior Rook, Bellara and Harding engaged in combat. The location looks to be Arlathan (not sure if it's the Arlathan Forest or Arlathan Crater area), outside the ruins of an ancient elvhen building, I guess the temple mentioned in the Game Informer cover story. Rook is mid-swing; Harding looks like she's doing that rogue archer move where they fire arrows then leap/flip backwards[?] and Bellara looks to have just fired a bolt or something of blue magic energy or electricity magic (her specialty) using the gauntlet. blue light emanates from it, there are blue sparks in the air and the orb on the stairs looks like it's crackling with energy. the orb is also surrounded by the golden triangles, something connected to the use of the gauntlet and ancient elven magic/artifacts/tech in general I assume. To Bellara's left are some blue butterflies btw! how pretty!

I have highlighted some things in this image. over Bellara's shoulder, you can see the ears of one of the classic Fen'Harel statues. in the background, in central, priiide of place above the archway/temple door, is the Fen'Harel mosaic from DA:I. (I wonder now, are the concentric circles/repeating rings above his head in that mosaic the Veil motif..?) to his right is the DA:I mosaic of Sylaise. to his left, I can't make out which mosaic it is - if anyone is able to pls let me know? :D and, are these wolf-ear patterns on either side of the door, or am I simply squinting too hard at unremarkable archy shapes hh?

the arch/doorway is the same shape as here (ancient elven architecture feature). on either side of it is a blue lamp-looking thing that to me resemble the ones here (another location with ancient elven ruins). the pattern on buildings that I think looks like wolf ears (...lol) can also be seen on the ruins across the lake in Arlathan Crater.

the focal point of this image is the creature that the team are fighting. I assume it is a demon-infested suit of mechanized armor known as a Sentinel (which are weak to Bellara's electricity magic), as detailed in the Game Informer cover story. gold in color, elfy in design and guarding an ancient elvhen ruin, it's clearly of ancient elven make. the mask of its head extends on either side in two pointed elven ears. its headpiece reminds me of the Evanuris head-shapes, though I'm not sure which one. I wonder if the green light in the gaps between the armor pieces is the energy of the demon animating it, and I wonder what type of demon has inhabited it. in DA:O, we fought suits of Fereldan armor that had been possessed by demons, so it's a phenomenon we have encountered before.

the Sentinel's name, armor design and protective function at a temple remind me of the DA:I Sentinel Elves (concepts one, two, three, showing the similar aesthetics), whom protected the Temple of Mythal. did one derive the name from the other? in ancient Elvhenan, did mechanized suits of armor assist the actual-elf Sentinel guards of temples? did the Sentinel suits actually once encase elves who passed away long ago after the elves lost their immortality (and the armor persisted through the ages but their organic remains have crumbled away to dust with time)? or maybe once upon a time the Evanuris sometimes used the spirits/souls of willing/unwilling elves to power/'possess' the suits in a process similar to the dwarves, golems, and the Anvil of the Void? and if so, could June have been involved in the creation or use of this process..? Master of Crafts, gods of crafts and building. the Sentinel Elves, and the Sentinel armors. like.. you could serve out of love/fear/faith, or willingly at least, or.. not?

the Sentinel's disembodied gold hand reminds me of these elven gold hands. at this point, if you were an Evanuris.. hell, why not make a giant 'statue' of [in this case golden metal rather than stone] armor like the sort the Dead Hand DA:I landmark implies once existed..? (more on the hands here). ancient elven and huge, and very dangerous. it would be a powerful weapon if powered to move by magic. remember in the final battle for Kirkwall, Meredith used her red lyrium-acquired powers to animate the giant golden statues to fight Hawke?

lastly, the war-axe that the Sentinel holds aloft. the negative space in its head creates a triaaangle shape. the non-cutting edge of the axe reminds me of the Evanuris head on the left here (Graphic Design is my passion). and idk, something about the axe reminds me of the new axe-wielding axe-headed red lyrium darkspawn guys. even the branches winding up it from being overgrown remind me of the darkspawn's veiny axe with the different branch-like parts curling into making up the axehead. and like, we know from the Game Informer article that sentinel armors and darkspawn are both found in Arlathan, and darkspawn can be found inside the temple itself.

The file name of this screenshot iirc on Game Informer was "Solas ritual". at the top of a flight of stairs, surrounded by ancient elven statues with the Evanuris head-shapes, Solas holds the knife aloft, using it to wield green Fadey magic or cut a tear in the Veil. do you think this is concept art/storyboarding art of this moment (two) from the DA:TV gameplay reveal video and opening cinematic, or a look back in time to when he created the Veil and sealed the Evanuris away in the first place? on the right hand side of the picture is the statue with Ghil's head-shape. on Solas' left is one which has Elgar'nan's (though interestingly, to me the body of that statue looks animal-like and to have four legs. draconic? dragons were the "shape reserved for the divine" in the Evanuris days..). other Evanuris statue shapes can also be seen in the image.

the big black mass Solas is focusing on in this shot is really interesting.. it reminds me of an asteroid hh. it's black and ominous with an oily-looking surface, pitted, rocky. idk, it gives the impression of something corrupted or something, like a giant Tainted pustule. what it this? the literal outer encasement of the Evanuris' prison? the Game Informer article told us that at the point Rook encounters Solas in the gameplay video, Solas was trying to move Ghil and Elgar'nan to a new prison, as the one he had previously constructed was failing. the 'rock' in this image doesn't look stable. the dents give the impression of holes forming in it and the small pieces of rock flying through the air around it make it look like little chunks of it are crumbling away. it leaves me with the impression that the floating rocks in all the DA:TV key arts and branding/banners etc aren't just representative of 'Fadey stuff, reality as we know it and the Veil are cracking, magic is coming back' but also 'oh no. the prison they were in was failing and cracking'. as an aside I am really curious about what specifically Solas did when he constructed the prison.

Lovely crisp screenshot of Bellara. She's so beautiful, I just love her design sm. it looks like she's in Arlathan here, not sure if it's the Forest or the Crater. I would guess this is from early on in the game when Rook meets Bellara in Arlathan, as detailed in Game Informer. the detailing on her clothing, the patterns and folds of the cloth and everything, is just :D the triangle theme runs through everything, on the bag strap, dotted on her scarf/kerchief, even in the shape of her layered sleeves and things. in this shot we can see that the stone set in the 'shoulder' of the gauntlet has cut, polished surfaces, jewel-like. and the greenish scarf reminds me of Merrill's fashion.. 🥺

curled under the 'lid' of her backpack it looks like a sleeping mat-type thing that you'd take with you when you're camping or hiking, right? like her bedroll. ^^ As with Taash, I really like Bellara's earring and I hope Rook can have earrings/piercings in CC or from items they find in the world. also it looks like the thing I thought was an arrow in a blurrier shot totally isn't, it's a hair accessory (cute!!) in the shape of a halla, you can see the branching horns. I really like that it's golden and not white or silver - it brings to mind the golden halla, Hanal'ghilan, a legendary creature said to visit the Dalish in times of great need. Hanal'ghilan translates as pathfinder, which seems apt for a Veil Jumper who is an explorer that goes on expeditions!

the other thing I loved about this screenshot was that we got to see a clear, front-on look at the design of Bellara's vallaslin. it's so lovely! pretty and intricate. and it makes me really curious and excited to see the designs that will be available to Rook in CC. I wonder which Creator Bellara's pertain to, if any?

Arlathan. Looks like concept art[?]. Super beautiful, Final Fantasy vibes, a high fantastical feel, a bit of whimsy. Reality warping, the telltale golden-orange trees (I feel like Harding in the gameplay video now when she's like "I know these trees" LOL same tho. like, from the days of 'mysterious triangle guys concept art' and the vinyl cover those trees were soo. KNOWABLE hhh). Lakes and waterfalls, ancient elvhen architecture in ruins, the towers with their distinctive curves and tops, floating rocks and chunks of buildings as reality breaks and magic seeps in - look at how the tree in the foreground is all streaky and blurred as everything warps, like it's been half-phased out of existence on this plane. (looks like a silver birch tree btw). in the background, the curved iridescent wall of bright light around one of the ruined buildings looks like the edge of a soap bubble, reminding me of how there are "Veil Bubbles" (pockets of reality or unreality?)

Arlathan. Looks like concept art. Bellara explores ancient elven ruins, and the ruins of reality. with what we're seeing and hearing of Arlathan so far, they're doing the Ruins of Reality and the warping of space-time that we saw in the Veil Jumper issue of DA: The Missing justice. Things in this spot seem to be in particular disarray in this image. some of the floating chunks in this image have the same 'blurring' thing going on as the birch tree in the previous image. in this image there is also a lot of energy and magical power, coalescing around or emanating from what look like a set of gold rings sat atop a tower. I get the sense of motion, that they are spinning rapidly (like helicopter blades). the light is Green, like Veil-fire or Fade-magicky stuff. (in this image, I also got the sense that the gold semicircles floating near the top of the picture are actually part of gold rings, and that these too were mid-motion. that image also has a green glow of something magical.)

Arlathan. Not sure if it's Arlathan Forest or Arlathan Crater specifically. In-game screenshot, another beautiful one at that. Qunari mage Rook, Bellara and Harding explore ancient elven ruins. Bellara looks around all curious. :) the lighting effects and particles are so lovely, everything is suffused in this pretty, soft golden light. on the crumbling archway in the foreground, we can see a repeating triangle pattern as decoration. in this image we can see at least three halla wandering around, two just in front of the party and one on a ledge a bit father back. I'm really curious about the little blue lights that are floating around (Bellara looks to be watching them). they look kinda like pixies or something. 🥺 maybe they are firefly-like bugs or, they seem benign and this is an area where the Veil is thin and there's a lot of magical energy - so maybe they are wisps, two, or something like that? wisps are the weakest spirits, in some cases benign and even aiding mages. they're described as being shimmering orbs of light that are too simple and impressionable to be good or evil.

(For these menu screenshots, to compliment your understanding of what we're looking at, this article is a great read to refresh on. these are the "gigantic spider web-like visuals" Corinne mentioned in that article.)

^ Screenshot showing the skill tree of a Warrior Rook. This Rook is Level 30. The Level cap is 50, so this is a skill tree of a Rook who is about mid-game. I wonder if "Thorne" is this Rook's custom first name, or if it is the set last name of one of the factions Rook can be from? for the skill tree, it looks like we start in the center and then spec outwards as we wish right? at the very center is the core of the Warrior kit. this Rook has invested some of their points in the Slayer specialization. it looks like they are not far from dipping into Reaper too - I wonder if it's possible to sort of multi-spec by dipping into more than one spec 'bubble' like that? we can see that the other spec for Warrior is Champion, that each spec has the symbol for the faction it is tied to next to it, and that there are the same amount of 'points' in the same pattern available to choose from in each spec. there are also places on the skill tree where it looks like Rook can choose to focus on Weapons, Survival and Abilities. these are the three sections that Corinne described the skill grid as being divided into in addition to the specializations in the article. for Warriors, Weapons is weapons-oriented, Abilities is ability-oriented, and Survival is defense-oriented. "So what you might do trying to get to, say, the Reaper specialization is go… Rather than going up through defense into Reaper, I’m going to go down through Ability into Reaper."

I like the art for each of the specs, it's cool!! (see a compilation of them here).

overall I like the skill tree. :) it's pretty/aesthetically-pleasing (constellation-like), and it looks like it's very extensive, with lots of different options and different choices to 'plot' your own 'route' through it depending on what sort of build you're trying to create. there are different shapes of points: small circles, large circles, diamonds, hexagons and some more star-like ones. I'd guess each one corresponds to a different type of ability or boost? and I'm curious to find out more about what those are. :)** from the interview with Corinne, we know that there are abilities, passives, and "traits". (I wonder what the "traits" could be? maybe stuff like "Persuasive", "Charismatic" or "lock-picker"?) we also know that these skills are unique per class, that every level you get a new skill point, and that there are other "side activities" in the game to get skill points from.

(** edit: @morganzephyr reminded me that we do know what these each correspond to, as detailed in this previous article:

"Large circle: Class Diamonds: Abilities Medium circle: Major Passives and Ability Upgrades Small hexagon: Traits Small circle: Minor Passives and Stat Boosts")

we can also compare these final skill trees to the prototype skill tree frame/wire diagram that we were shown at an earlier stage of development in a BioWare blog post and see how the concept has been realized since then. if the color coding on the prototype is still the same, it looks like the points on the tree are arranged in groups/clouds of related ones like this:

so like, some 'Champion-ish' or related ones are part of the main ring of the grid, and then there are some in-between each 'cloud' that correspond to neither side.

in the bottom left, we can see that this Rook has zero points left available at the moment to invest in the skill tree, and that they can refund their points to reset the tree by pressing 'F'. makes sense, in this article they talked about how the skill points can all be refunded. in the top left, under 'Level 30', I wonder if that bar is the exp progress bar that would record how much progress Rook makes to the next level? along the top, we can see that there are tabs for Map, Character (I wonder if this is where we view our inventory?), Companions, Skills and Library (Library is the codexes). Skills of course is the one that is currently highlighted and that we're currently looking at, with two triangles pointing at it in a pattern that looks like an hourglass.

Also evident in the skill tree menu is the purple-and-bronze key color theme of the game. I think the whole thing looks cool and aesthetically pleasing. around the 'Level 30' is some eight-pointed star designs, which is neat to me as we have 7 companions+Rook=8. curving past "Points Available"/"Refund Points", those lines look like the edge of the concentric circles motif. also, it looks like the design of Rook's skill tree takes inspiration from the DA:TV Veil keyart, with the layers, cracks, crumbling pieces and floating rocks, only in this case it's hexagonal rather than circular.

Screenshot showing the skill tree of a Mage Rook, again with the very core of the mage kit in the center. this Rook has invested in the Death Caller spec. we can see the other two specs for mages, Evoker and Spellblade. (it looks like "Spellblade" is one word rather than two like "Death Caller"). like with the differing arts for the different specs, it seems that the art piece for the 'central core' of each kit is also different, which is a cool touch. For mage, for the other 3 'non-spec areas' of the skill tree, where for Warrior they are Weapons, Survival and Abilities, here they are Control, Burst, and Sustain. this Rook is also called "Thorne".

Screenshot showing the skill tree of a Rogue Rook. this Rook has invested in the Saboteur spec. we can see that the three non-spec areas for Rogue Rooks in their skill trees are Sustain, Burst and Control, like mages. that's an interesting choice, I thought they would be 3 different ones for each class. this Rook is also called "Thorne".

In this screenshot we are still looking at a Rook's skill tree. Specifically this is a close-up view of part of a mage Rook's skill tree. So it seems like we can zoom in to the different parts of the skill trees to see them in more detail. In this image, an ability called Wall of Fire is highlighted. Wall of Fire was a mage skill in DA:I.

In the pop-up ‘info card’ looking section for it, we can see all the stats, numbers and relevant information for this skill. We can that it’s a skill of type ‘Duration’ and ‘Control’, ‘Control’ being one of the three non-spec sections on a mage Rook’s Skill Tree. It deals 50 Fire Damage (in the RPGsite article, Corinne confirmed that Elemental damage is a big part of the combat in this game) and has a cooldown time of 60 seconds. The description reads that the skill involves summoning a flaming barrier that burns those enemies who are foolish enough to cross it. We’re also told that enemies incur damage and Burning [damage over time effect or condition?], presumably upon doing so. A scroll bar at the right allows you to scroll down and read the rest of this information. (compare these numbers and descriptions to Wall of Fire in its DA:I incarnation out of interest) We know which symbol on the tree is Wall of Fire as it's highlighted in a purple design around it (I highlighted this below in yellow). We can see that the symbol for Wall of Fire is some burning purple flames.

We can also see some more detail on other, unhighlighted skill points, even though their 'info cards' aren't opened. For example, I think the one I circled above in orange is the new Meteor skill, and maybe the one with three 'bolts' to the right of the Wall of Fire 'card' is a sort of Arcane Bolt[s]-type attack spell? this image also gives us a bit more insight into what each of the different shapes of skills represents. for instance, both Wall of Fire and Meteor are the same diamond shape, so maybe it's like the diamond shape is for specific attacks/spells, as opposed to something like e.g. a passive. Some of the symbols also repeat, like the several different smaller ones around some of the main skills like Meteor (with swords on them). maybe these are optional upgrades for those, like you could invest a point in those to do something like increase the damage done by Meteor or something like that?

There is also this new screenshot of this scene of Emmrich from the character reveal trailer, as noticed by @sandetigerrr here (it's a slightly different version of that shot, one you can't get from slowing the character trailer and pausing it due to the splash text of his name that pops up in that). from the distinctive tall skeleton-pillars in the background, we can see that this scene takes place in Necropolis Halls. (more on that discussed here). a fire burns in the foreground as Emmrich does necromancy, looking all distinguished as he does so. the banners blowing around in the background on the 'wind' created by Emmrich's magic is a nice touch. in this scene we also get a good look at Emmrich's full outfit from the front. it looks like Emmrich is strong/skilled enough to command at least nine undead without breaking a sweat.

the adornments on each skeleton are interesting - are these pieces of armor that never rotted away like flesh, being metal, or are they post-death accoutrements that are added as part of Nevarran funeral/burial customs or something? the headpieces in particular, along with the missing top half of their skulls, make it look like upon death, the top half of the skulls were removed and the brains scooped out, maybe to then be stored in those canopic jar-looking things, Ancient Egypt-style? other parts of these metal pieces look to be at joints like knees, elbows, wrists - maybe after the flesh rots away, these metal parts help to keep the skeleton from falling apart, so that they can wander around successfully in the Grand Necropolis when possessed? lastly, this scene is quite similar to this DA4 concept art in style, vibe, content, setting etc, which makes me wonder if 'Flaming Skellington', who appeared in several pieces of concept art, is actually Emmrich himself.

and finally, that's all the screenshots we've seen so far (unless I've forgotten to include one somewhere along way, in which case pls let me know!), which concludes this post series. I think I will compile the links to all of them into one other post for ease of browsing, and for anyone who read all of these rambling over-analyses, I hope there was at least some stuff in there you found interesting or something. ◕‿◕

[mingoooossii]

Mark lee x reader

Synopsis: going for a swing with ur bestfriend!

Warnings: fluff as usual, Spiderman!Mark,abrupt ending(i'm sorry) that's literally it.

A/n: I love spiderman mark with my whole heart 🫶 and for the love of god,i couldn't come up with a title for this.

The air crackled with unspoken words as you stared at Mark, the discarded mask lying forgotten between them. The revelation hung heavy, a secret finally unraveled.

Spiderman, the city's enigmatic hero was Mark, the lanky guy who tripped over his own shoelaces. Your goofy, clumsy best friend.

But it did make sense. His mysterious disappearances, the vague explanations about internships, the way he always seemed to know when trouble was brewing. It all made sense.

He shifted uncomfortably, guilt twisting in his gut. All this time, he'd kept this colossal part of him hidden, a wall between your friendship.

"So," you finally said, your voice surprisingly steady, "you're Spiderman."

Mark braced himself for a torrent of emotions – disbelief, anger, fear – anything but the glint of excitement that lit up your eyes.

"Can we swing?"

Mark blinked, taken aback. He'd imagined a million scenarios, a million ways this conversation could go, but this? This wasn't on the list. "S-swing...?"

"Yeah! You know, like you do on TV. Through the city, with the wind in my hair!"

A hesitant smile tugged at the corner of Mark's lips. This wasn't the reaction he'd envisioned, but a warmth bloomed in his chest nonetheless. Maybe, just maybe, his secret wouldn't be the wedge he'd feared.

"Uh, yeah," he stammered, a hesitant smile tugging at his lips. "Sure, I can do that. But hold on tight, okay? It can get a little… breezy."

Mark led you to the window, the cityscape twinkling below like a bed of scattered diamonds. He took a deep breath, the familiar tingle of responsibility coursing through him as he pushed open the window. The cool night air whipped at your faces, carrying away the last vestiges of his hesitation.

You wrapped your hands around his neck, a nervous tremor running through you as you peered down, but before fear could take root, Mark's hand secured your waist, a gesture both protective and familiar.

With a silent leap of faith, they plunged into the night air.

For a moment, there was only the rush of wind, the blur of buildings, and the exhilarating feeling of weightlessness, momentarily stealing your breath. But then, something magical happened.

Your gasp cut through the air.

The fear that had flickered in your chest was replaced by awe. The city sprawled beneath you, a glittering tapestry of light against the inky canvas of the night. The buildings, once imposing giants, now seemed like miniature models. You were flying.

Laughter bubbled up from your chest, a sound both exhilarating and liberating. Mark, glancing at you from the corner of his eye, couldn't help but feel a warmth spread through him, thankful for the mask that hid his lovesick grin. The city lights reflected in your eyes, brighter than any neon sign.

Maybe keeping his secret hadn't been all bad. Afterall it had led him to this moment, sharing this incredible experience with the person he... well, felt a little more than just friendship for.

[jumpywhumpywriter]

Living Weapon Whumpee part 11

Warnings: forced living weapon/fighter, captive living weapon, war, bleeding & bullet wounds, several deaths

"I'll rejoin the fight as soon as I can once I get more ammo -- Leader's ambush took us all by surprise, and none of us were armed or ready for it.”

Whumpee paused, staring down at the lethal weapons in his hands. Was he really prepared to fight or even kill the very people that had made him into Weapon? But there wasn't time to ponder it. The longer he stayed here, the more innocent people would die.

...Fight one last time, and you will be free...

Flint's words echoed in his mind, and he felt something he hadn't felt in decades: hope.

"Well, Weapon? Whose side are you on?" Whumpee glanced back to Flint, whose pupils were dilated with fear -- fear of him, and he realized just how bold of a move it was for Flint to unleash the monster he'd been holding captive. A giant leap of faith. Of hope.

Whumpee strapped the leather sheaths to his belt, face hardening with practiced impassive stone. "...You really mean it? I do this, and I'm free?" He growled gruffly.

Flint nodded sincerely, and Whumpee turned toward the door.

"Then consider me your most deadly ally," he threw over his shoulder. He charged out of the prison, veering left and taking off down the hall. It wasn't hard to find his way through the maze of the foreign facility -- he just followed the sounds of gunfire and screams ringing in the distance, growing louder.

Whumpee's heart was pounding, ice-cold adrenaline flooding his veins as he slipped into the familiar composure of the honed warrior he was trained to be -- though this time, he was the enemy's living weapon. Leader was not his handler anymore.

He clung to the fractured memories he'd rediscovered, the feeling of the family Leader had taken from him -- and let it fuel him.

The terrified screaming rattled in Whumpee's skull as he drew near to the fight, so much like the screams of the innocent victims he'd taken in the past -- but this time around, he was fighting to save those people instead of eliminate them.

Whumpee rounded a corner and skidded to a stop. There was a path of destruction down the hall he was facing, bodies and blood on the floor amidst rubble and chunks of concrete from explosive blasts. Both from soldiers and civilians alike, children and mothers slaughtered alongside those who had tried to protect them.

He didn't hesitate as he ran down the hall, careful not to slip on all the blood and jumping over the bodies. But then a low groan caught his attention, and he paused to kneel beside an injured soldier -- still alive.

The soldier was bleeding heavily from several fatal bullet wounds, bleeding out fast. The man's gaze locked with Whumpee's, his eyes widening with fear.

"Weapon--"

"Which way do I go to find the other children and women?" Whumpee demanded before he could speak. "I'm on your side this time."

The soldier didn't have time to question if Whumpee was tricking him as he pointed a trembling finger down the hall. "Right... left... left..." He gurgled weakly, and then his eyes rolled back in his skull, and he went limp. Gone.

Whumpee took off, following the directions the dying man had given. The screaming and crying was so loud now, and he came barging into a giant room to find himself caught up in total chaos. At least two dozen men were engaged in close-combat, wearing the colors of their leader -- and he knew Leader's colors by heart, having worn them himself into battle countless times.

But despite all the action, Whumpee's arrival was quick to be noticed, his presence.

"Weapon's loose!" A bellowing shout warned. Flint's fighters grew panicked, faltering.

Whumpee could see a group of women and children huddled in one corner, Flint's men creating a line in front of them as they struggled to hold off Leader's fighters. Flint was right, hardly any of them were armed, wielding only blades and batons. They were losing badly.

...But Whumpee could change that.

A few of Leader's soldiers cast unconcerned glances Whumpee's way, expecting him to join and help kill the enemy... but the mood instantly changed when the weapon lunged forward -- and drove his blade in the back of a Leader's soldier.

Leader's men cried out in confusion, whirling around to face the new unexpected threat, and it was the perfect distraction for Flint's men to take advantage of.

"The freak's on our side!" A joyous voice howled, relief clear as day.

Whumpee snarled and tore through the fight, flinging men around like ragdolls with incredible strength, dangerous and powerful. Bullets hit his vest and ripped through his skin, but he plowed onward like the living battle machine he was, fighting without holding back. He crushed faces and skulls with his fists, severed arteries with his blades... no matter how much damage he was taking, he just kept going...

...And the tide slowly began to turn. Whumpee was giving Flint's soldiers a fighting chance.

⏪️ Back Next ⏩️

Masterlist

@scoundrelwithboba @lumpofsand @isikedmyself878 @iamheretohurt @fleur-a-whump

@ay5ksal @otterfrost @sausages-things @i-don't-know-sal @togzy

@whump-till-ya-jump @cravesunconditionallove @whumpwritinglover222

@silly-scroimblo-skrunkl

[super-ion]

Oh, hello! Welcome!

I take it this is your first time out in the deep black?

Oh no, no need to get defensive about it, Everyone has to start somewhere. We get many travelers paying tribute at our little church here. You've got the look of someone who's never been beyond low orbit. I'm guessing one of the third wave colonies?

(It's the implants. Secondwave culture is a bit more uptight about them and you don't look like you're trying to rebel)

You're wondering why we have valuable real estate set aside for a shrine of all things?

You're wondering what sort of god spacers worship?

Do you know what a god is? I'll tell you. A god is an idea given life.

So what's the idea that keeps us flying?

Most folk born planetside might think the god of spaceflight is all fire and noise. Nah. Any moron with enough money and explosives can build a rocket.

No, the idea that keeps us going out here is faith that ask these tiny little pressure vessels will hold together and find their way through the black.

Back in the ancient days, back before thinking machines and all that, the very first leaps off the ground were guided by computers that were hand made. I shit you not, little old ladies hand sewed the memory together.

Huh…? No, I mean like, hard coded read only memory, literal ones and zeros locked into magnets and wire.

That's my point though. Our god began life as the god of seamstresses. She's the god of sewing and weaving. She's older than civilization and she's gone by many names in many cultures.

Yeah, no, of course we don't hand sew our computers, that lasted all of like a decade. Hell, textile work itself went totally automated not long after. Point is she took men into space and brought them home safely. That sorta thing leaves a mark on a god. It changes them.

A ship. A station. A fleet. They're all systems. People and life support and sensors and actuators and control loops. It's all a web, a giant fucking tapestry of connections and she's the master weaver at the center.

But of course the web is massive, and she isn't literally weaving shit. She's all of the maintenance. Corrective and preventive. So it falls on all of us, the pilots, the mechanics, the algae farmers, the sanitation workers, everyone. We're the sewers and weavers. We're the ones patching and mending the tapestry. We're the ones adding to it constantly.

So that's what the shrine is for. That's the religion in out here in the black. Deep space is a bitch, and all we have to count on is the ship and the crew. She reminds us of that.

[evertidings]

“you are a bounty hunter.” those are the words i wrote two years ago on february 24th, 2021—the day i first announced this story. it’s not the day i posted the first demo, nor the day i uploaded the twine version of the game, but i celebrate this as my anniversary because it’s when i took a giant leap of faith and said fuck it, i’m putting this out in the world. nearly two years later, i have no regrets. i’m eternally grateful for all the love this story gets. all the ratings, all the comments on itch and the asks in my inbox—they’re all so special to me.

which is why, one week from today, i’ll be releasing the first part of chapter nine at 12pm EST. i’ve taken more time with this chapter than i have any other one and it pains me, but because all of you have been waiting so patiently, i thought i’d share a bit of it to celebrate. it’ll be out on patreon this sunday for those on the midnight tier and tuesday for those on the twilight tier. it’s far from done, but i hope this short few scenes tides you over as you wait for the full thing.

many of you know that i write this story for myself above all, but it’s definitely a bonus that so many of you enjoy it with me. from the bottom of my heart, thank you <3

[yearningaces]

Now you have me curious. How did Ofius met his human partner? Don’t think I missed your little hint at the end about finding the reader that day. Reveal your secrets to me (pretty please)

The observance that I appreciate, thank you!

Yes! He found reader "that day" and there is emphasis on "that day". The way I've worked this idea is that wherever Ofius and his home is? There's no humans, just all gone. Either abandoned their towns out of fear of the giants or a rapidly approaching danger that just doesn't affect those behemoths so they don't notice it.

So finding a little human all alone and abandoned in the land of what was now only giants? Not ideal for any human. Ofius stumbles upon this little human, injured, having been left behind by their traveling group due to being dead weight in a situation that was too dire. And Ofius was the first to find them.

He's not a kind giant by nature really, so the first to see him as such has his heart all twisted up and from there feelings grow as the story goes

In this world, giants are dangerous for both a malevolent nature and their capabilities. Something also hinted at in that short story. But Ofius could only see this hurt human and before he could offer to help them... Maybe I should just write their meeting scenario actually

~

The breeze was quiet, strange given how tense the people of this land had been in the eyes of the giant, Ofius. He'd watched from afar as they scuttled along like ants, quick as they could abandoning every building and foundation and creation one after another.

Were he a less merciful giant, he might follow to see how long they'll keep going with him in tow. He might step over to see them up close and watch them flee in greater terror.

For now, the gruff giant only shouldered his axe, turned and left. He had a home to build after all, and the trees wouldn't uproot themselves.

It's another few days before he stumbles upon a peculiar set of trails along the same path the humans took. These ones divert though, something he'd only noticed when kneeling down to access a boulder for its potential in tool crafting. The trail is jumbled, uneven steps and some scuffing in the dry dirt.

The sky above rumbles as Ofius focuses his gaze on the divulging travelers trail. He doesn't stand, not wanting to lose sight of something so difficult to spot in the first place. Instead he crept along, placing a hand in the soft grass to support himself as he leaned over, following the trail and realizing that it stopped in a taller patch of grass in the open field.

Ofius stares for a moment, focusing his attention closely.

The faintest flutter of a heartbeat. Hidden in the tall grass, no doubt intentionally hiding now. "... It is unwise to hide so low among giants. Many walk without care, and being unknowingly crushed is a poor way to die."

The giant is surprised by his own words, he's offering a warning, his voice a low rumble but not the harsh gravely tone he usually uses. Perhaps because the poor human might be hurt he feels a twinge of sympathy? What surprises him more, however, is the response.

Indeed a human, your head poking out from the tall grass as you give a cautious smile. Without any way to combat this giant, you might as well play it safe and converse while he seems open to doing so. "Well, you know I'm here now- so you'll not let them step on me, right?" And it's such a leap of faith to say something like this; but when you look up to the giants dark eyes, they seem almost glazed over with an unfamiliar emotion.

Because Ofius has felt his heart stutter. His massive hand rasing to clutch the fabric of his shirt. Such a little yet brave human you are, and so blatantly saying you're trusting him to keep you from harm. Keep you protected.

Ofius has been known as many things, but never a protector, or one who would care. So for anyone to insinuate such a thing so easily, it has his heart starting to race for reasons unknown to the lonesome giant. "Aye... I won't let any step on you." He agrees in a slightly softer tone, slowly lowering a hand down to you, palm up, fingers out.

The giant watches with baited breath as you place a hand on his fingertip, using him as support to stand with a crooked gait to your step, your leg seeming injured. Oh, poor Ofius can simply feel so many new sensations, but above all he knows he will never forget this moment. The first touch, the most trusting of actions. Mentally he'd already vowed to live up to your words, your trust.

Even if it was a trust only given because you had no other choice at the moment. You can't say that though, so- "My fellow townspeople were traveling down the roads to the Edgewood kingdom. I was... Slowing them down."

Ofius can understand anger, he knows hunger and pain and isolation and rage. But to feel so deeply on behalf of another, not just anger but concern? It's something new, so he offers what he knows best to always heal any of his injuries, from the body to the mind. "How does a good stew sound, hm? I've got the pot over a fire already and it ought be ready soon. I can bring you to where I'm building my home, let you rest and recover." With how gentle he's had to be for the first time, Ofius has realized his strength clearly. His massive palm that's swept behind you to scoop you up as carefully as he could still seems to shock you. And the slightest weight in his hand, that's you. Fitting in his palm.

Ofius stands slowly, both hands cupped together to carry you with a gentleness he's having to learn as of right now.

But for such a human as you? He'll learn so much more.

~

Fun fact that I couldn't include: Ofius crafts. Specifically, he has to craft his human their own bowl for stew. It takes a few tries but he gets better in time and eventually makes a hobby out of carving wooden "you" sized things

[mr-styles]

aube_perrie sorry as i’m going to get a bit emotional (most probably cheesy) about all this. almost a year ago, @harrystyles ❤️ entered my world in the form of a whatsapp text, and it changed my life quite literally in many ways. back then and ever since, @bryanyounce and @mollyjane_x embarked me on the most amazing journey of the most magical artist. thank you both for trusting me with so much and showing me the kindest and strongest support. you never stopped pushing (as in..never!!!) and..I’ve said it before but I’m so, so grateful. thank you for believing day one in my story of a lonely little automatic vacuum cleaner in search of connection. harry, molly, bryan, thank you. it takes many amazing people to see these stories come to life (make sure to check all credits), but it started with you three 🫂, and because of that giant leap of faith our little one was born and took us all on a journey of a lifetime. and I can tell you it was quite an adventure

[stone-stars]

songs in c3e60: peregrine (timestamps from the ad-free version. does not include the generic combat music. “a wizard’s tournament” is the recap song.)

Shock at the Dock - 14:05

The Purge - 17:24 (loops)

Bronzebeard Baddies - 25:34

Conspiracy in the Clouds - 33:56

A Fate Refused - 35:38

The Valiant Ol' Cobb - 40:54

Mothership - 42:12

Spearmint & Tea Leaves - 44:46

A Fairy Remembers - 47:07

Demigod - 49:48

Escape from Smuggler's Bounty - 56:45

Escape from Smuggler's Bounty - 57:59

Demigod - 1:00:42

royalty free metal song - 1:02:21

Bahumia Theme - 1:03:39

Conspiracy in the Clouds - 1:08:59

Spearmint & Tea Leaves - 1:10:09

Bahumia Theme - 1:12:29

A Fairy Remembers - 1:15:58

The Fairy - 1:19:24

The Twinkling Lights of Galaderon - 1:22:16

The Posse - 1:23:19

A Tale's End - 1:26:16

Home is Where the Hearth Is (instrumental ver) - 1:27:39

Home is Where the Hearth Is - 1:31:28 - (clipped here!)

context for each song + notes under the cut!

Shock at the Dock - 14:05 - Callie gets hit with the anti-spell blast

The Purge - 17:24 (loops) - Alexandrite's first lair action and the submarine exploding from the ice

Bronzebeard Baddies - 25:34 - Alexandrite shifts into giant Gowan/Scorpion form

Conspiracy in the Clouds - 33:56 - Nat 1 for the village / Nat 20 for Alexandrite

A Fate Refused - 35:38 - Sol shoots a flare to let the village know they're fighting

The Valiant Ol' Cobb - 40:54 - Alexandrite crits on Calder / He saves from the poison

Mothership - 42:12 - Alexandrite's lair action earthquake

Spearmint & Tea Leaves - 44:46 - Callie offers to help the village, Calder says no, and Garrosh offers aid

A Fairy Remembers - 47:07 - Calder takes a leap of faith and and fuses the swords

Demigod - 49:48 - Alexandrite expands into a giant mass of people

Escape from Smuggler's Bounty - 56:45 - Kenna inspires Calder by calling him Giant Heart

Escape from Smuggler's Bounty - 57:59 - Calder crits for the Ice Knife vs the zombies

Demigod - 1:00:42 - Alexandrite's turn

royalty free metal song - 1:02:21 - Sol Silvery Barbs on Alexandrite

Bahumia Theme - 1:03:39 - Calder opens the gate

Conspiracy in the Clouds - 1:08:59 - Licorice goes down, Calder falls

Spearmint & Tea Leaves - 1:10:09 - Calder falling, at peace, and Callie saving him

Bahumia Theme - 1:12:29 - Callie crits and kills Alexandrite

A Fairy Remembers - 1:15:58 - Alexandrite is defeated

The Fairy - 1:19:24 - Albin arrives

The Twinkling Lights of Galaderon - 1:22:16 - Calder + Gowan talk

The Posse - 1:23:19 - Gregor defending the town

A Tale's End - 1:26:16 - Celebration in the village

Home is Where the Hearth Is (instrumental ver) - 1:27:39 - Callie plays a fey song in front of the rift

Home is Where the Hearth Is - 1:31:28 - Emily sings us out!

Notes: The metal song at 1:02:21 is one that murph uses a lot for badass moments, so i'm calling it out even though it's royalty free New Song: Home is Where the Hearth Is (lyrical version, the instrumental was used in ep 57) Unlisted in the Credits: Mothership