#allie was a real one though free my man

[nu-carniviva]

Went into the Kleinmas event hype

Left the Kleinmas event crying tears of joy and with two new ships

Nu: Carnival rots my brain and I'm okay with that

[v-arbellanaris]

one of my favourite parts of dai, which i don't usually speak about, is when you get to halamshiral, and they announce the inquisitor. at least half my inquisitors recruit the mages as free allies of the inquisition, and yet at halamshiral, the inquisitor is credited as vanquisher of the rebel mages, crusher of the vile apostates of the mage underground. sera says 'he's so full of it! that's not how it went.' and it's vivienne who says 'remember to smile. this is all for show, my dear.'

this, amongst many moments, really encapsulates the heart of the story inquisition is trying to tell, and there's a hundred little moments that build towards this story. i have talked before on this blog about the original purpose of the inquisition, in-world, which was both to bring the mages back under chantry control and, if necessary, to recreate a loyal templar order. that is explicitly the context in which the herald is brought into as a character - that is the 'problem' they are to address, the same way the warden's narrative problem is posed as 'there is a blight that needs to be stopped' and hawke's problem is posed, interestingly in a dual-layer kind of way which is both 'i need to keep my family safe and secure' and 'how did we get to this [gestures at the aftermath of da2]?'. the narrative then goes ahead to fill in that story. and even in these stories, throughout, there are so many things building up to the narrative beats in inquisition. everything from the portrayal of the grey wardens as a heroic force in dao and how quickly the origins goes to show the wide depth of perspectives and feelings you can actually have around being conscripted and how the joining ritual - and jory's death - expose the true heart of the order's utilitarian approach, to loghain's status as the hero of river dane and his role in the rebellion and the man he actually is under that mythos, to the entire narrative of da2 being framed around this "champion" who the chantry is painting as a deliberate saboteur and conspirator (with the grey wardens) to bring the chantry and the circles down, to the ameridan reveal in jaws of hakkon, and the evanuris reveal in trespasser. there is so much story and deconstruction throughout the series of the 'chosen one' narratives - each story's protagonist has been a "chosen one" who was never really chosen, survived through chance, and shouldered responsibility for a wide variety of reasons. and their actions become legends and myths that consume any trace of who they really were. and this culminates in an extreme way in dai, because the role of the herald - which is who your pc is before they're the inquisitor - has religious significance, and in-world, andrastianism is the most dominant religion. and the religion is SO culturally pervasive, to the extent there are no governing bodies in the entirety of thedas are secular, and most are andrastian-aligned. even orzammar's belief in paragons and the stone is aligned to a religion, even if it's not andrastianism - atheism and secularism is something entirely unthinkable within a thedosian society. so of course the impact of the herald of andraste is different to the hero of ferelden or the champion of kirkwall.

but i think it's disingenous and outright insulting to insist that this was done well, or with finesse, or that the narrative tools used to convey these themes should somehow be overlooked in light of the mere presence of The Theme in the Narrative. i've spoken before on how often the writing in dai doesn't want you to think - it removes the options to argue, to present you with a statement that is The Objective Truth, as though if enough of your companions repeat the statement, it will become true. and i, myself, and plenty of people in the fandom - particularly people of colour - have been vocal about the implications around the framing of these Objective Truths, when you consider the real life analogues that these Truths are drawn from, by bioware's own admittance. that's not even touching the inherent problems with the narrative push of "imperialism is better than chaos". therefore, i cannot and do not understand responses to criticisms of dai that essentially come back around to "well, you have to understand that the dai pc is not written to be a leftist, they're written to be a centrist" - inquisition, especially, rewards conservatism specifically, as a first point. as a second point, why would having an option to have a pc with leftist or progressive views - not just progressive for thedas, but progressive according to modern values - take away from either the deconstruction of chosen one narratives or the idea of losing your identity that's pervasive throughout dragon age as a whole?

i have spoken to the blank-slate feeling to the inquisitor as a deliberate writing choice, one that people suggest is actually feeding into the themes of dai, but i argue that it's actually a deliberate writing choice so that new players come in without any opinions or experiences of the world at all, and thus become more primed to accept Objective Truths from the companions. thus, criticisms -- certainly mine are -- around the lack of options to argue with your companions stems not from wanting to be right, but from being allowed to have a different opinion. how does having a different opinion to what's publicly acceptable, or desirable, actually not enhance the themes of identity loss in dai?

yes, you cannot decide that your warden does not become a warden - but you live through the experience of becoming a warden, to show why it's necessary. you are allowed to have complicated opinions about being a warden, and act based on those opinions. yes, you cannot choose to not play as hawke, but you can choose exactly what kind of hawke you want to play - someone pro-templar, or pro-mage, or someone who starts out at one end and comes out of it the other end, someone who values family or money or status and prestige, someone who is funny or diplomatic or violent. you have a choice. and when the inquisitor doesn't have any background at all, there is no justification for why the inquisitor needs to be a centrist, or why they would be one. my circle mage pc could have been part of the rebellion. my cadash could have been someone kicked out of orzammar as a child or someone who lived in dust town before they got to the surface. the lack of backstory for the inquisitor, similar to the warden or hawke, actively weakens the story - how do you write a story about someone losing their personal identity to their growing myth/legend, when there's literally nothing that is ever establishing what they've lost? how do you write a story about someone losing their personal identity, or being subsumed by their role, when there's nothing to indicate their personhood? how much more jarring would it have been to have been proudly and loudly and unapologetically pro-mage and pro-rebellion the entire game, only to get to halamshiral and be called vanquisher of the rebel mages? all of your personal politics and values disappearing and smoothed over in such a visibly visceral way? how much more gutting would it have been to have these values, and speak to them, and argue for them articulately, and still never be able to change your companions' minds, instead of constantly being put in a position where your companions get the last word in on absolutely everything, right down to arguments about slavery with dorian? how much more intense would it have been to have had a wide array of options in dealing with main quests and situations, only to have it boiled down to one thing or one of two decisions, with all the complexities stripped from it? how can you say that being forced to be centrist as the pc is central to the story being told, and not something that actively hampers the themes dai is trying to draw on?

i especially don't know how people can insist to overlook how - as in the methods chosen here - bioware's writing team in dai pushes the deconstruction of the 'chosen one' narrative that is present throughout dragon age. inquisition choses to do this by doubling down and retconning and two-sidesing every single complexity under the sun - from suggesting mages oppressed themselves by rebelling/not every mage even wanted to be free of the circle (while offering limited voices otherwise, and making sure to clarify the voices calling for mage freedom are Evil and Bad), to blaming the dalish for being slaughtered by the exalted marches in the dales, right through to the decision to make ameridan a dalish elf and yes even the decisions made around the writing for the evanuris. and we have to be clear about it, that if the overarching themes of dragon age are deliberate, then this was also a deliberate writing choice, to further emphasise the idea that history is written by the victors, that stories warp and change over time, etc etc. the series' successes in storytelling have been around the subjectivity of absolutely everything; there is no objective truth in dragon age, there is something that happened, and then there is 50 different opinions about it. the codex entries are not objective truth, they're biased reportings from people with agendas and pre-existing beliefs and notions. you can live through the battle of ostagar, and there are still 50 different perspectives on it, and all of them valid from that person's standpoint. inquisition takes a hard swerve from this, to insist on Objective Truths, not because it was the best way to make their point - they've been making their point with subtler storytelling for years - but because it's lazy, racist, colonialist writing. and worse, still, is that this writing is then forced as Objective Truths to you, the player character, with no way to argue even when you have the knowledge, or your pc could reasonably be expected to have the knowledge to counter this information, or to even argue about the interpretation of the "Evidence" you find of these Objective Truths.

and i suppose, if it's not your stories and histories being co-opted, it's easy enough to say having those choices don't matter to the overarching theme. i suppose, if it's not your religions or cultures being borrowed and frankenstein'd into this fictional world and the religion and culture you do identify with are primarily portrayed as inherently correct and superior in a way you were never taught to question, it can seem like questioning those beliefs and opinions in your companions and in npcs is a waste of effort. it's not, but i can see how it might feel that way.

inquisition itself, as a game, does not simply deliver a theme - the narrative tools used to deliver that theme throughout the story are frankly abhorrent. on top of that, key decisions in the plot have little to no immediate, serious consequences (for example, siding with the mages or templars only really has narrative consequences for who you face at fall of haven and in the temple of mythal; there are almost no consequences for kicking the wardens out of orlais; etc etc). companion character quests revolving around whether or not to change and strive for better, or to stay with their old regressive patterns have absolutely no narrative consequences because the world re-sets to status quo. 2/3rds of your choice for divine essentially reinstate the old systems, and only one (vivienne) actually makes any systemic changes to those systems, and the game mechanic itself is incredibly slanted towards choosing the divine that brings everything back to "normal". all following mentions of the media neatly dodge the question of whether you have made any lasting change at all. all to push the narrative that change isn't really possible, because society will always go back to the status quo. and if you try to challenge that status quo, you will just make things worse, so it's better to just stay as it is. nothing matters, no change is permanent, and anything you try to do, people will warp for their own agenda anyway, because you are not you anymore, you are a caricature people will use to justify the way things are and insist it is how it must continue to be.

which is a stupid hill to die on, if you're going to defend the ways inquisition tells its story. even trick weekes themselves find it a trite and bleak storytelling mechanism. when even bioware itself is going "our next narrative will Not be that" - will even be the opposite of that, that it's bullshit not to try to change things at all - it's as good as an admission that the ball was dropped on that in the previous installment.

anyway, i just think it's actually incredibly disingenuous and insulting to address criticisms around narrative framing and the limitations of character responses and choices in inquisition as if its overlooking the story's themes, or somehow missing the point that has been staring us in the face since origins. we know the themes they intended to convey. that still doesn't mean inquisition satisfactorily delivered. which i frankly think even bioware themselves recognised and are actively trying to do better in for da4.

[ceratedfish24]

Your takes on c!Scott and flower husbands have honestly been so refreshing that its reignited my old Hot Takes on c!Jimmy bc I detest the way people characterize him.

I feel like so many people portray Jimmy as this dejected downtrodden victim of bullying, which feeds into a narrative that Scott was cruel and abusive and awful or whatever, and tends to act like Jimmy doesn't have any agency ever. But IN REALITY??? Jimmy is not downtrodden and dejected and sad!!!!! In my opinion, Jimmy's defining character trait is his unshakable TENACITY! Ppl never want to admit that Jimmy is a little shit! That he acts out of spite, that his friends' teasing only tends to motivate him!! He *thrives* in environments that challenge him! AND to be so for real, he is a grown man with agency and decision-making skills and I'm tired of people acting like he isn't.

In general I feel like people just have the wrong outlook on him as a character. Maybe they've just collectively misunderstood him, or a Helpless Miserable Victim is easier to write about in fic, or they just want to project their own bullying-related trauma onto him or whatever. (People do similar things to Scar when talking about desert duo, which I understand even less). IDK. These are just my thoughtssssss sorry for rambling :P

No because you’re literally so real for this. Jimmy is SUCH a little shit. His response to Joel being mad at Jimmy for trying to kill him was to SHAKE HIS ASS AT JOEL. He taunted Joel because Jimmy successfully used Lizzie to bait Joel out. He tried to guilt trip Scott into giving him time. These aren’t negative qualities. This is a guy being silly with his friends. Embrace them when writing c!Jimmy. These are wonderful and realistic qualities.

Jimmy’s tenacity is so remarkable. He gets knocked down and all of his friends tease him about it, and he stands right back up with pep in his step. A lot of people treat Pearl the same way. Like, guys, these people are adults who make their own choices, and, often times, people who are given free will are not going to make the responsible choice most of the time when there are no real world consequences to their actions other than maybe “I might not get to be in the finale of this Minecraft series”.

There is SO much favoritism in the Life Series. Jimmy and Pearl are always reduced to their greatest tragedies, while Scott and Cleo are reduced to their most selfish moments, even though everyone else is equally selfish because IT IS A DEATH GAME. IT IS A COMPETITION. THAT IS THE POINT.

A lot of Jimmy’s deaths tend to be his own doing. Whether he unnecessarily made an enemy or just wasn’t being careful, a lot of Jimmy’s deaths are his fault, and that’s fine. He likes to play into bits. He’s not that serious about winning as opposed to making fun content. Pearl has made her fair share of mistakes and enemies, and that adds plot and drama to her content. That’s how she plays it, and it’s fine! Don’t infantilize them for dealing with the consequences of their actions just like everybody else!

Scott was widowed, and he had to watch his allies die before he did for seasons. Nobody ever comforts him about it. Nobody says “oh this man is so sad he’s just doing his best but he can’t keep his friends alive and it’s eating him up and everyone should baby him”.

Nobody even calls Joel toxic for constantly targeting Scott, but somehow Scott is toxic for teasing Jimmy now and then? (Which is not to say that Joel is toxic. He just finds it fun to target his good friend and knows where Scott’s limits are. It’s actually a sign of how close they are in real life). Nobody calls Etho and Bdubs toxic for being so mean to each other. Nobody calls Impulse manipulative when his whole thing in Third Life was betraying people. Nobody says Ren is controlling for taking the lead in Dogwarts or calling the Renwood Mound the Ren Mound. Scar is a liar and a scammer and no one thinks less of him for it.

Do you wanna know why? Because they’re friends having fun. Scott and Scott’s character should be treated with that same respect given to everyone else. Also, people need to keep in mind that Scott is not actively playing a character. Scott is just playing the game the way that cc!Scott wants to play the game, so any in depth analysis of Scott’s “character”? That’s an over analysis of cc!Scott in a competitive environment, and that man is literally on this site, people. He knows about Gaslight, Gatekeep, Girlboss, Girldad. I’ve seen him reply to analysis posts on why Scott is manipulative. He’s literally just a guy playing a game for fun.

Imagine if someone accused you of playing an evil and selfish character because you asked your friend to give you the monopoly money they owe you. Or, worse imagine if someone accused you of playing a manipulative character because you let your friend land on your monopoly property without paying you????? Because you love your friend??????? Like, excuse me????????

Thank you for the ask!!!!!! 🩵🩵🩵 It’s always flattering when someone calls my posts “refreshing”💕💕💕(also I see you all the time and I love seeing your additions to my posts💖)

[mrs-pondwater19]

Random Miguel O'Hara Headcanons that Plague my Mind Daily✨💜✨

Fem Shy Civilian Reader x Miguel O'Hara

Part 1

Just a little blurb about my personal headcanons of Miguel that I would like to share with all you lovely, beautiful souls.

No real plot, just drabbles and little silly brain rotting thoughts of a cute little shy civilian lady and Miggy because we all don't have to be Spider-Women to get this man's attention. Especially cute, shy civilian girlies.

I don't speak Spanish, so please feel free to correct any mistakes if you see any 💙

SFW and NSFW will be split into two parts.

Established Relationship, friends to lovers vibe, long distance relationship *sorta*, cute little anecdotes, brain rot, Miguel being absolutely head over heels for you, reader feeling slightly ashamed/insecure cause she's not a spider woman, slight mentions of trauma, consoling/reassurance on both ends. Over whole wholesome, loving vibes.

I hope you all enjoy💜💙💜

SFW

He never intended on falling in love. Not when he was what he was.

Spider-Man 2099. The founder of the Spider Society, a man dedicated to his work and keeping the Multiverse safe.

But that all changed when you came into his life.

You originally were a friend of his little brother, Gabriel. Not fully remembering how you met his brother before, but knowing well enough that you two were good friends and hung out occasionally.

He remembered the first time he ever met you when coming home from one of his missions. Unaware that you had dropped in to visit with his brother and stayed a bit longer than you intended to.

He remembered how surprised you looked when he walked through the door, seeing his muscular stature and handsome face standing in the doorway.

The heat on your cheeks becoming very prominent when he approached you.

How his cocky smile made your heart skip a beat.

How your hand was a little shaky when he introduced himself to you with a formal handshake.

How his large, calloused hand engulfed your small, soft one without any trouble at all.

How you quietly introduced yourself with that shy smile of yours.

It was so much different than the women he was around in the Society.

How soft spoken and gentle you were.

Even though he didn't want to admit it, he thought you were absolutely adorable.

From the first time he met you and moving forward into the little friendship you two formed.

He always knew how to get you all flustered whenever you were around him.

Especially when he started using more intimate nicknames that always made you squirm.

"Mi Alma."

"Querida."

"Mi Vida."

"Amor."

Even when you tried to roll with his teasing and tried to keep yourself calm and collected.

You never hid your embarrassment well.

He could see how much his teasing and suave personality got under your skin.

But he didn't mind at all.

In fact he thought it was all very, very cute.

Every time you blushed.

Every time you stuttered.

Every time you bashfully smiled at him.

It all made his heart melt every time he saw you.

Although he was surrounded by all kinds of women each and everyday at HQ. Women who often fought for his attention and affection.

He never really seemed to pay any mind to them. Always keeping it professional with those who sought him out. Never seeing any of them as more than co-workers, allies in their goal to keep the Arachno-Humanoid Poly-Multiverse safe and secure.

But when it came to you.

His sweet, shy, pretty little civilian friend.

Despite being the cold, distant, hardened man he was. He knew deep down he had a bit of a soft spot for you.

That you had a certain effect on him.

An effect no Spider-Woman in the Spider Society could ever come close to.

And it would only get worse as time passed, when he'd start hanging out with you on his own without Gabriel.

That would become the norm for you two.

Just spending time together in either his apartment or yours.

Talking about each other's interests and life experiences.

After a while he was even comfortable enough to tell you about his life as Spider-Man.

Not that you were surprised in the slightest, considering how he was always conveniently leaving right before "Spider-Man" showed up.

But he knew he could trust you to keep his secret.

You always did.

Because you wanted to be a good friend.

Someone he could trust.

But deep down you knew it was also because you didn't want to ruin your chances of being something more with him.

Even though you truly believed he didn't look at you that way.

But you couldn't have been more wrong.

Whenever he wasn't playing the role of Spider-Man, he would always be sure to make time for you.

Taking walks with you in the park, getting coffee at a local café, or just sitting in the apartment and talking for hours and hours on end.

Getting to break down your shy exterior more and more with each meeting.

Getting to know who you were deep down.

And you were so lovely and sweet.

Not that he didn't know that before. But the more time he spent with you.

The more he got to see how genuine you really were.

And after you'd leave, he'd let his mind wander back to you. Allowing himself to replay his favorite moments when being with you.

Your laugh.

Your pretty smile.

Your beautiful eyes.

Those eyes he often thought about when he went on missions, while alone in his office monitoring the multiverse, and when he patrolled alone late into the night.

Those same eyes that haunted his dreams like a blessing and a curse.

Those beautiful, bright eyes that had his heart skipping beats every time you met his gaze.

So gentle, full of appreciation and kindness for him despite your shyness.

Fuck... he had it so bad for you.

He knew it would've been better if you two had just stayed friends, that he should've kept you at a distance because of his profession.

He knew he couldn't be the man you needed, or the man who deserved to be with you.

But he couldn't help it.

You were just...you.

As the time passed, hiding his feelings for you just got harder and harder. Trying to push away how he truly felt about you.

Trying to convince himself you two were just really good friends, nothing more.

He tried so hard.

Until he couldn't take it anymore.

Every time you were around him, or every time you crossed his mind, it felt like his heart would burst out of his chest.

Every little lingering touch, whether it was your hugs, hair ruffles, or gentle jabs.

It left him wanting more and more.

All the nights be fantasized about being with you. About a future with you that he knew he could never have.

It was almost too much to bear.

He knew he had to tell you.

Even if it meant ruining your friendship.

He needed to be honest with you.

To be honest with himself.

When the day came that he actually did confess to you. You thought he was joking.

Thinking he was just trying to get a rise out of you like he always did.

To see your cheeks blush that pretty crimson red. To get you to cover your face and tell him to stop teasing you so mercilessly.

"Come on now Mig, don't tease me like that."

But when be looked at you with the most serious expression you'd ever seen on his face, besides the slightest blush on his cheeks.

You knew this was no joke.

His expression never wavered as he spoke.

"I'm not teasing you. I'm being serious, querida."

You swore your heart stopped when you realized he meant what he said.

The conviction in his voice made your body hot and your mind a bit fuzzy.

It felt almost too good to be true.

That there was no way he actually had romantic feelings for you.

And when you didn't respond at first.

He began to panic.

At that point he was a nervous, blabbering mess.

Trying so desperately to explain that the feelings he harbored for you were real.

"Look, I know I'm not the easiest to be around. I have a temper, I tend to push people away, and I can be harsh at times."

"But when I'm around you, you make me feel like a better version of myself. You bring out all the good things in me I forgot I had. I like who I am when you're with me. I like that you see who I am beyond my stoicism and my title as Spider-Man."

"I love that you see me for who I am."

You wanted to respond, but he just kept going on his tangent.

Gently bringing his large, clammy hands to your shoulders as a way to steady the two of you.

"But please, querida. I need you to trust me when I say that I have very strong feelings for you. Feelings I can't really explain. But they're there."

Having him hopelessly spill his feelings in front of you.

You couldn't deny your true feelings either.

"I feel the same."

But you knew the reality of the situation was tricky and complicated.

"But what about the Spider Society? Your role as Spider-Man?"

He knew you would ask that.

He thought about that himself more times than he could count.

He knew it wouldn't be easy. But he was willing to make it work.

Because he believed you were worth it.

"That doesn't change anything mi vida. I'll do whatever it takes to make this work. As long as you're willing to take a chance with me, we'll find a way. No matter how long it takes. All I ask is that you be patient with me querida."

After hearing those words of affirmation, it was enough for you to happily say yes.

Granted it was strange at first. With both your feelings were out in the open, it made things a bit tense.

Thinking he wasn't really being serious.

That it was just out of pity.

You knew you shouldn't have been thinking like that, because you knew Miguel wasn't that type of person.

He was very upfront with how he felt.

Cut and dry so to speak.

But the mean, little voice in the back of your mind always reminded you of the kinds of women he worked with on a daily basis.

Strong, valiant, capable, beautiful women.

Not that you weren't beautiful in your own right.

Because you absolutely were.

But it was different with them.

Or so you thought.

They were heroes.

You were just another civilian amongst the crowd.

Even though you never openly expressed how you felt about it.

Miguel knew.

And he absolutely hated that you felt that way about yourself.

He thought you were absolutely perfect as you were.

Because you weren't like them.

You were so much more than any of the women in his organization.

Even if you didn't see it that way.

But he was more than determined to get you out of that mindset.

He would constantly reassure you that he wasn't going anywhere.

That he was very, very serious about the relationship.

That you were the only one he would ever want.

That you were the only one he'd ever need.

Telling you from the moment you woke up until you fell asleep in his arms,

"I'll always be here with you, mi alma. Always."

Part of it was for his own reassurance as well as yours.

Because his past was not kind to him in the slightest.

After losing so many people he loved and cherished more than himself.

He was afraid of letting people in.

To show vulnerability.

Terrified of losing someone he loved and cared about again.

He didn't want to relive that pain.

Never again.

You could see it in his eyes whenever he tried to reassure you of the doubts you had about him.

You could see how much it hurt him.

How it stung in his chest every time he needed to reassure you.

That he was there to stay.

That you were the only one for him.

Gradually, the more you heard him say it. The more you truly started to truly believe in him.

That he wasn't going anywhere.

That he was committed to making it work with you, because he loved you.

And he made sure you felt that way each time you were together.

Not only with his words.

But with his actions as well.

How over time he picked up on all your little quirks.

Taking note of all the small, little things you liked that only people super close to you knew.

Remembering how you liked your coffee or tea.

Making you your favorite snacks after you had a long day of classes or work.

Cooking you your favorite meals when he's not working. Wanting to make sure you've eaten and that you're taking care of.

Giving you gentle massages and rubbing your back to make you feel better if you were sore or in pain.

Playing with your hair when you cuddled because he knew you enjoyed it. Feeling your strands gently wrapped around his large, calloused fingers and letting them fall past his skin.

Just being close to you whenever he was with you.

Given your comfortability of course.

He was a very passionate, affectionate man.

And although he would never, ever push your boundaries when it came to physicality.

He just wanted to show you how much he loved you as much as he could.

Hugging you.

Kissing you.

Touching you.

Feeling you.

Making sure he made you feel loved at every opportunity.

Knowing in the back of his mind he couldn't always do that for you.

No matter how much he wanted to.

It was difficult, not being able to see him as much as you wanted to. But you knew he had responsibilities being Spider-Man. The people's protector.

He'd be gone for days at a time. Leaving you alone in the apartment to go about your life. Whether it was work or classes.

It'd get lonely at times for sure.

But you both found ways to make it work.

Even though he's busy with the Spider Society and keeping the Multiverse intact. He would always make sure to let you know he's thinking of you.

Whether it was little messages he'd send you from his Gizmo telling you how much he loved and missed you.

Telling you about the different dimensions he visited and the anomalies he hunted down.

Although he didn't go into too much detail when it came to his work life.

Only what he considered necessary.

He didn't want you knowing about the darker side of his job.

All the close calls he encountered.

All the people he couldn't save.

How sometimes he'd let every mistake he ever made during a mission consume him.

But he refused to let you see that side of him.

You had enough to worry about as it was.

He didn't need you adding on any more stress than you had.

But you weren't stupid either.

You always worried about him.

How could you not?

Knowing who he was and what he did, you knew the risks that came with it.

The chance of him never coming home.

The guilt he carried because he knew he couldn't save everyone.

But all you could do was try to be as supportive as possible.

Reminding him that he was doing his best and that's what mattered.

That he was a good man.

And he appreciated it.

More than you could ever know.

That was another he loved about you.

How kind and understanding you were when it came to his profession.

You never shut him out or backed down when he was in a bad mindset about those things.

You always looked at things rationally and tried to be as supportive and optimistic as you could be.

Keeping him as levelheaded as possible and letting him know you were in his corner no matter what.

Even if that was all you could do.

Whether it was in person or from afar.

He was grateful for it.

For you.

When he wasn't sending you messages he'd call you on late night patrols to ask you how your day was. He didn't care whether it was exciting or not. He just wanted to talk to you.

Even if you're all groggy, sleepy or can't keep track of the conversation.

He selfishly just wanted to hear your voice after a long stressful day.

It reminded him of what he has waiting at home for him.

When he did get home after his patrol, you're usually asleep. All cozied up in your bed, cuddling with his pillow.

He'd watch you sleep for a while before joining you in the sheets.

Not in a creepy or strange way.

He just likes seeing you at peace despite the struggles life puts you through.

To see you in such a calm state.

To see all the little expressions while you dream.

To shamelessly admire the woman he's opened his heart to without seeing you get all embarrassed, hiding away from his gaze.

He could feel the way his heart skipped beats in his broad, muscular chest at the way your hair was tussled against the pillow.

How your lips were slightly parted as you took soft breaths.

The way the blankets cocooned around your form as you curled into a fetal position around his pillow.

It was a sight to behold.

After a while he'd have Lyla shut down the nanotech spider suit and crawl into the soft sheets with you.

He'd take the pillow from your arms and pull you close. Replacing the cold fabric of the pillow with the warmth of his skin.

Pulling you against him as if he were protecting you from the world.

Feeling the sudden warmth always woke you up every time he came home.

"Mmm, what time is it baby?"

"Don't you worry about that amor. You just go back to sleep, I'll be here with you when you wake up. Ok mi alma?"

You weren't really awake enough to comprehend what he was saying, but you just nodded as you wrapped your arms around him.

"Love you Mig."

It was a groggy, subconscious phrase of your love.

But it made his heart swell all the same.

He kissed your forehead sweetly as he pulled you even closer.

"Te amo tanto, querida."

With that he'd allow himself to fall asleep wrapped around you, and you him.

Knowing that he could always come home to you.

[toptophat]

2.6 thoughts!!!!

Spoilers for anyone who hasn't finished it yet!

It was a freaking blast, a rollercoaster of emotions, I honestly thought that Mr Reca, with how cuckoo he was in the trailer, was gonna be the antagonist, turns out he's a quirky memokeeper (who may still have his motives but for now he was definitely an ally) I guess, much like the galaxy rangers, there is no uniform, because I honestly thought they all would have some resemblance to Black Swan, but I can't wait to see more memokeepers, as well as more galaxy rangers

Speaking of galaxy rangers, ok!! Rappa and Boothill were the real protagonists here!!!! Poor trailblazer became a side character to these two champions and I love it!!! I've already made it clear that I adored Rappa from the moment her drip marketing dropped, I initially found her strange way of referring to everything as ninja stuff hilarious and quirky, I thought "are all galaxy rangers gonna talk funny?" But that was my first impression, now I wanna [forking] cry!!! I was already skeptical of this "Master Kucha" from the way he spoke! I didn't know that he was basically like the only parental figure she had, she's one of Dr Primitive's (Evil Ninja Osaru) test subjects in a hidden lab (Ninja capital) having to undergo harmful tests and torture (Ninja trials) this, coupled with the fact that her only source of free time and entertainment has been a ninja manga, she may have developed some sort of mental/ identity disorder, she's been living in a fabricated reality and no one can help her because they don't see the full picture, even her backstory has been distorted by her own retelling making her some sort of unreliable narrator in her own story. Dr Primitive is truly a despicable monster, torturing people and distorting an innocent girl's mind. There's a bright side to this tragedy though! That innocent girl is now our Rappa, and although her mind has been messed with, she still became a righteous galaxy ranger, kindhearted, unmatched skill, hellbent on hunting down the cruel doctor and she definitely lives up to that title too!!! So I'm rooting for her!!! And the moment we got to fight alongside her at the end after hearing "No Dazzle No Break" was gorgeous (can't wait to finish building her so she can continue to show them the way of the ninja!)

Once I finish reading her character story, I'll make a further analysis

Speaking of which, I'm actually gonna make 2!! One for both of our stars of the show, Rappa and Boothill, two people who had to revisit their past, and come to terms with their present and future, living up to the ways of The Hunt! I already deeply respect these two, the more I get of them, the more I can't help but respect them more!!! And I'm definitely excited to get more of them!! Galaxy rangers are the best!!

Boothill's up first because obviously I've already read his backstory so his POV was like an added 5 course meal!!! But I do wanna talk about his best moments (aside from the obvious highlight that blew me away) Firstly, we got more of Boothill the identity stealer (First Pom Pom now March 7th???) Actual Robinhill moments??? (I'm more of a GunsNRoses person now but it's still really cute) The way he was so relieved that he could "fake swear" again instead of the banana cussing was hilarious, Star Rail don't do this to my man, at least give him the "Ninja slang" treatment, let him swear 😭😭 And Boothill owned the dancefloor in the DJ Robin cutscene!!! We have a rapping ninja and a dancing cowboy, could this get any better!!! And obviously, there's the Lore!!!! Which was actually insane !!! I literally wanted to avoid spoilers in order to experience it blindly and it was worth it!!!! I wanted to [fudging] cry, it was so well done!! Andrew Russell and Kendell Byrd knocked it out of the park with their scenes!!! I freaking love Boothill and Rappa so much 😭😭😭 they're both life my dude!!!

This is just what I needed!!!

[book--brackets]

Summaries under the cut

Gallagher Girls by Ally Carter

Cammie Morgan is a student at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women, a fairly typical all-girls school—that is, if every school taught advanced martial arts in PE and the latest in chemical warfare in science, and students received extra credit for breaking CIA codes in computer class. The Gallagher Academy might claim to be a school for geniuses, but it's really a school for spies. Even though Cammie is fluent in fourteen languages and capable of killing a man in seven different ways, she has no idea what to do when she meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Sure, she can tap his phone, hack into his computer, or track him through town with the skill of a real "pavement artist"—but can she maneuver a relationship with someone who can never know the truth about her?

Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

Trespassers will be turned to stone

For centuries, mystical creatures of all description were gathered to a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary is one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite . . .

Kendra and her brother, Seth, have no idea their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws keep order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken, powerful forces of evil are unleashed, forcing Kendra and Seth to face the greatest challenge of their lives, to save their family, Fablehaven, and perhaps even the world.

The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott

Nicholas Flamel was born in Paris on 28 September 1330. Nearly seven hundred years later, he is acknowledged as the greatest Alchemyst of his day. It is said that he discovered the secret of eternal life. The records show that he died in 1418. But his tomb is empty and Nicholas Flamel lives. The secret of eternal life is hidden within the book he protects—the Book of Abraham the Mage. It's the most powerful book that has ever existed. In the wrong hands, it will destroy the world. And that's exactly what Dr. John Dee plans to do when he steals it. Humankind won't know what's happening until it's too late. And if the prophecy is right, Sophie and Josh Newman are the only ones with the power to save the world as we know it. Sometimes legends are true. And Sophie and Josh Newman are about to find themselves in the middle of the greatest legend of all time.

Out of My Mind by Shannon Draper

Melody is not like most people. She cannot walk or talk, but she has a photographic memory; she can remember every detail of everything she has ever experienced. She is smarter than most of the adults who try to diagnose her and smarter than her classmates in her integrated classroom - the very same classmates who dismiss her as mentally challenged because she cannot tell them otherwise. But Melody refuses to be defined by cerebral palsy. And she's determined to let everyone know it - somehow.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

Orphaned Kit Tyler knows, as she gazes for the first time at the cold, bleak shores of Connecticut Colony, that her new home will never be like the shimmering Caribbean island she left behind. In her relatives' stern Puritan community, she feels like a tropical bird that has flown to the wrong part of the world, a bird that is now caged and lonely. The only place where Kit feels completely free is in the meadows, where she enjoys the company of the old Quaker woman known as the Witch of Blackbird Pond, and on occasion, her young sailor friend Nat. But when Kit's friendship with the "witch" is discovered, Kit is faced with suspicion, fear, and anger. She herself is accused of witchcraft!

Books of Bayern by Shannon Hale

She was born with her eyes closed and a word on her tongue, a word she could not taste.

Her name was Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, and she spent the first years of her life listening to her aunt’s stories and learning the language of the birds, especially the swans. And when she was older, she watched as a colt was born, and she heard the first word on his tongue, his name, Falada.

From the Grimm’s fairy tale of the princess who became a goose girl before she could become queen, Shannon Hale has woven an incredible, original, and magical tale of a girl who must find her own unusual talents before she can lead the people she has made her own.

Fudge by Judy Blume

Life with his little brother, Fudge, makes Peter Hatcher feel like a fourth grade nothing. Whether Fudge is throwing a temper tantrum in a shoe store, smearing mashed potatoes on the walls at Hamburger Heaven, or trying to fly, he's never far from trouble. He's an almost three-year-old terror who gets away with everything, and Peter's had it up to here! When Fudge walks off with Dribble, Peter's pet turtle, it's the last straw. Peter has put up with Fudge for too long. Way too long! How can he get his parents to pay attention to him for a change?

Bartimaeus by Jonathan Stroud

Nathaniel is a boy magician-in-training, sold to the government by his birth parents at the age of five and sent to live as an apprentice to a master. Powerful magicians rule Britain, and its empire, and Nathaniel is told his is the "ultimate sacrifice" for a "noble destiny."

If leaving his parents and erasing his past life isn't tough enough, Nathaniel's master, Arthur Underwood, is a cold, condescending, and cruel middle-ranking magician in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The boy's only saving grace is the master's wife, Martha Underwood, who shows him genuine affection that he rewards with fierce devotion. Nathaniel gets along tolerably well over the years in the Underwood household until the summer before his eleventh birthday. Everything changes when he is publicly humiliated by the ruthless magician Simon Lovelace and betrayed by his cowardly master who does not defend him.

Nathaniel vows revenge. In a Faustian fever, he devours magical texts and hones his magic skills, all the while trying to appear subservient to his master. When he musters the strength to summon the 5,000-year-old djinni Bartimaeus to avenge Lovelace by stealing the powerful Amulet of Samarkand, the boy magician plunges into a situation more dangerous and deadly than anything he could ever imagine.

Shadow Children by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Luke has never been to school. He's never had a birthday party, or gone to a friend's house for an overnight. In fact, Luke has never had a friend.

Luke is one of the shadow children, a third child forbidden by the Population Police. He's lived his entire life in hiding, and now, with a new housing development replacing the woods next to his family's farm, he is no longer even allowed to go outside.

Then, one day Luke sees a girl's face in the window of a house where he knows two other children already live. Finally, he's met a shadow child like himself. Jen is willing to risk everything to come out of the shadows - does Luke dare to become involved in her dangerous plan? Can he afford not to?

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

Miri lives on a mountain where, for generations, her ancestors have quarried stone and lived a simple life. Then word comes that the king's priests have divined her small village the home of the future princess. In a year's time, the prince himself will come and choose his bride from among the girls of the village. The king's ministers set up an academy on the mountain, and every teenage girl must attend and learn how to become a princess.

Miri soon finds herself confronted with a harsh academy mistress, bitter competition among the girls, and her own conflicting desires to be chosen and win the heart of her childhood best friend. But when bandits seek out the academy to kidnap the future princess, Miri must rally the girls together and use a power unique to the mountain dwellers to save herself and her classmates.

[messylustt]

fluff being stuck in chains with leon. for a visual aid at marker 1:50.

your head is slightly lolling from the injection, eyes blurring into consciousness as you spot a blonde haired man opposite you. with brows furrowed, and lips parted you take in his dirty leather jacket, and matching cuffed wrists. you look up at your own, the situation finally sinking in.

“haven’t seen you around.” the man speaks, his voice a fraction hoarse and low, redirecting your gaze, as your throat feels dry all of sudden. his eyes are scanning you, as if he’s trailed your body before. he must have woken up before you. your legs feel weak, but you straighten your back, the metal chains clinking together.

“i’m not exactly a resident on this island.” you reply, shifting your gaze to his lingering cuts, and then down his body, taking note of his well equipped clothes. “and you don’t seem to be either.”

“what gave it away? the fact that i’m not trying to get you to join a cult or by the way that my hands are chained?” his gaze is lazy, but focused, his muscles tensed and clearly ready for anything and more. “i was gonna say your clothes, but yeah, that too, i guess.” you reply, the smallest of relieved smiles edging your lips. so this one wasn’t crazy. a rarity on this island.

the man’s stance and gaze has stayed wary, almost expecting you to reach over and stab him. his mistrust in you is valid, and something you seem to possess too. “though now isn’t probably the best time to make conversation, but what brings you here of all places?” he asks, experimentally tugging on the chains. you get pulled forward slightly, your arms raising higher. you seem to both realise as you look up at the ceiling, to see how your restraints are connected, one chain looped around a rolling hook.

“no harm in making conversation.” you mutter, you now tugging on the restraints, seeing sprinkles of dust fall off the ceiling. “i wouldn’t exactly call this a charming getaway spot.” he mutters, wrapping his hand around the chain fluidly, both your gazes still eyeing the rolling hook.

you slightly chuckle at that, despite the raw rubbing on your wrists. “then why are you here?” you reply, finally shifting your gaze back to him. he copies, meeting your eyes. “is it petty to say ‘i asked first’?”

“a little.” you reply, licking at your dry lips. “but i think considering our circumstance, ‘petty’ should get a free pass.” you slightly smile, though weak, still a smile. “i’m here…looking for someone.” the blonde man almost nods in understanding. “i think that’s the only reason someone would come here.” he replies, just as you both hear the scratching sound of shoes on rock. both whipping your heads to the door, an anticipating silence fills the rather dank underground room.

you stance grows instantly ready, facing the door as much as you can as it slowly creaks open. a follower. that’s who walks through the door, hood up and veined, grey skin partially on show, making your teeth clench together. “hey.” the blonde man speaks harshly, eyes trained. “where the hell did you put my stuff?”

“this child will be blessed soon.” the infected mutters more so to himself, before repeating it a few times, almost in a prayer. then before you can react he’s grabbed you, disgusting hand by your neck. but then you’re getting tugged forward, arms raising above your head as you come into a few inches of the blonde haired man.

your breath gets caught in your throat, your gaze looking down to the fellow unifected’s hands, wound tight around the chain. he had pulled you. away from the follower, and towards him. you can feel his heavy breath against your skin, as his eyes stay locked on the infected being, shooting daggers, that you were wish were real. “thanks.” you mutter quickly, as you feel the being approaching you. your leg kicks out behind you, landing in his guts, as he’s forced to stumble back.

“if we get this chain off that hook we can use it.” your now…ally you could say quickly speaks, as he loosens the grip on the metal, letting your arms drop. use it. as a weapon. at this point it was your best chance. you both grip the chains, yanking hard as the sound of clinking and grinding fill the room. you can spot the follower standing, an arm forming into something oozing and fleshy as it shoots out towards you, your feet stumbling back. the rolling hook is loosening, one more harsh tug and you end up free. well, as free as you can be, considering your still bound wrists.

the blonde haired man swiftly and rather accurately wraps the chain around the approaching being’s neck. you quickly follow, aiding him by pulling tight against your end of the chain. in what feels like a mix of agonising long moments and quick breathless ones, the man’s knee bends down against the chain, the metal successfully snapping the followers neck. you’re both breathing hard, adrenaline coursing through you both. “shit.” you mutter, now feeling the heavy weight of the chains. you watch as the blonde haired man grabs at the follower, finally pulling out a key. “who are you looking for?” you ask.

his precision showed skill. which meant training. training most likely meant an agent of some sort. he looks up, undoing his wrists binds, before standing, hands free and walking over to you. “a girl.” he says, grabbing the end of the chain and tugging you forward. you make sure not to stumble into his chest as you dig your shoes into the dirt. “a girl…you were assigned to?” you inquire. his hold is still on the chains as he meets your gaze.

he pulls you a fraction closer. “who are you?” now his mistrust is coming to play. his hesitance in unlocking your chains clear. “y/n.” you reply, staring back. you can see a question of ‘who do you work for’ in his eyes. “just…y/n.” he let’s his tongue graze the roof of his mouth as he keeps his gaze on you, his hands slightly moving to now grasp your wrists.

“can i get your name?” your voice holds a steadiness that is making the key in his hand draw closer to letting you free. he grabs your chin suddenly, making you tense as he tilts your head to the side, brushing your hair away he looks at your ears, before doing the same to the other. ear pieces. he was looking for a form of communication. “leon.” he finally says, seeing none, and clicking the key in place, allowing the chains to drop to the floor.

“and you wouldn’t just…be leon, right?” you ask, rubbing at your red wrists. he pauses, gazing towards the door, as he spots his bags and items through the walls crack, before glancing back to you. “you travelling alone?” he asks. “is that an offer, agent?” you reply. you can spot the smallest, the smallest, of smiles edging his lips, his expression bordering amusement. “if you’re that observant, then you might come in handy at some point…’just y/n’.”

“that’s a bit petty.” you reply, your sarcasm clear. his answer has his own mouth twitching up. “which means i get a free pass.”

[lostryu]

i need gay rights because literally not a single self-proclaimed cis/het 'ally' understands the alienating experience that comes with being the only gay person in the workplace.

i am a gnc butch lesbian. i use he/him pronouns. when i came out to my manager regarding my pronouns (i had been an open lesbian since the moment of my hire), she told me that she supported me, but she could not enforce or ask our clients to use the correct pronouns for me. she told me it was something i would have to learn to deal with. she never uses the correct pronouns for me unless a person from a different department (who also happens to be LGBT+) is present. she is our HR in addition to manager.

none of my coworkers in my department ever remember to use my pronouns. if i remind them, they go over the top with the "im sorry's" and the "im still learning" and "you know i try my hardest's!" and "i swear im not homophobic!", it has been over 6 months since i came out. if i say nothing, they continue to use she/her (unless that other lgbt+ person from the other department is present, then they miraculously get it right).

sometimes they call me 'girl'. they always flounder and correct to "man-boy-uh youknowwhatimeanright". they laugh it off. they never bother to ask what terms i am comfortable with, or if i even cared in the first place. they don't care about my gender, they never bother to ask. somehow the subject gets changed every time i try to tell them, or set a boundary.

once in a while in a slow shift, the conversation will hop to our dating lives. somehow, it always jumps to how men suck and how dating a woman must be so much easier. they wish they could be gay and not straight. every time, they'll stare at me expectantly, like i am an animal at the zoo. no matter what i say, positive or negative, i must be lying. i cannot be that happy in my relationship, or if i have any issues, they must be minor. if i say 'why don't you try dating a girl then' to their remarks, they'll laugh, say something like "there is no way i possibly could" with that special tone of disguised disgust.

i am a prop, at work. they tell me about how much they love their kids. how they could bring anyone home and they wouldn't care. "they could be black, brown, or purple," they'll say "it could be a woman or a man! I support gay rights!" Then they will talk about how hungry they are, and how they will be going to Chick Fil a for the 4th time this week. 'as a treat'. it is thursday. they talk about going to Hobby Lobby again for christmas decorations, or another sale. sometimes i think i can taste blood.

its june. they talk about the pride parade and how excited they are to see the queens and their 'funny costumes'. they talk about how fun it is to go and watch, how they like the free things the corporations hand out. they don't want to bring their younger kids though. they're not old enough. they do not know that the first pride was a riot. they do not know what happened during the AIDS crisis, how many died. they don't really care when i try to tell them, they'd rather focus on the fun parts of the parade. the spectacle.

i wear a pronoun pin, to make it easier. still somehow no one can get my pronouns right. a client notices it. commends me for "being brave" and "coming out." she never uses my correct pronouns. i stopped wearing the pin after the 11th person asked me if my name on my name tag was my real one, and after the 45th person went out of their way to use incorrect pronouns every sentence. my manager, the HR, did not care.

i need gay rights, but somehow everything got resolved when they allowed us to marry in 2015. to our allies, the work is done. somehow i am left more alone than when we started.

[iwritefandomimagines]

SWEETHEART — ARTHUR PENDRAGON

masterlist

→ pairing: arthur pendragon x princess!reader

→ description: as a child, you had spent countless summers in camelot, your whole youth characterised by infatuation with arthur pendragon. though the feeling was mutual, your responsibilities as princess of your own kingdom meant that you had not returned in years. arthur had always held hope that one day you would reunite — but when you do, news of your betrothal leads him to believe he may have lost you forever.

→ warnings: angst at first, happy ending!!, merlin being a little shit stirring prat (who i adore).

“So this is the Princess Y/N we’re talking about here?”

Arthur scoffed at his friend’s teasing grin, rolling his eyes at the way Merlin’s arms crossed over his chest.

“The same Princess Y/N with whom you’ve been in love for… quite possibly all of eternity? Who you’ve spoken of constantly since we met? Who you’ve not seen in years except for in your dreams?”

“Alright, alright, Merlin,” Arthur warned, “Yes it is that Princess Y/N. And you’re not to say a word to her. I have waited a long time for this moment and you will not ruin this for me.”

Merlin smirked, uncrossing his arms to raise them in a show of surrender, “I won’t, I won’t.”

There was a moment of silence — Arthur pausing to heave in a deep breath as it dawned on him that you really had just arrived back in Camelot.

It had been almost five years since he had seen you.

Your father and his had been close friends and allies since their own childhood, and so you and Arthur had grown incredibly close.

Too close, perhaps.

You were his first love, and he yours, and having given each other all of your firsts you had both assumed that one day you might wed and rule both of your kingdoms together.

Instead, you had not been back in so long that he had begun to fear you never would.

As the only child in a rare kingdom accepting of a female heir, you had been in training to become queen upon your father’s death since you reached 17.

As a result, you’d not had the free time to visit Camelot, much to your dismay. Arthur too hadn’t been able to visit you, and so contact had ceased entirely as you went about your busy lives.

To say you missed Arthur was an understatement — he had been your absolute world.

From the days of chasing him through castle grounds and giggling under tables, to the days of lovelorn stares and stolen kisses, the arrogant prince would remain the love of your life for as long as you would live. You were certain of that.

And to now be returning to Camelot after all of this time, you were utterly terrified — even more so given the news that you were returning to share.

As soon as you caught sight of Arthur amidst the throng of knights your heart raced impossibly fast; Faster even than it already was at the thought of seeing him.

Now, it was real.

“Is that her?” Merlin pointed a finger directly at you, causing Arthur to twist on his heel and spot you and your guards (though not before grabbing Merlin’s finger and twisting his arm for daring to point at you).

Your pace quickened as you watched his eyes widen, and leapt straight into his arms when you reached him, though you knew this was not something you should be doing in public — even if you were tucked away where only the other Knights of Camelot (and Merlin) could see the encounter.

“My Lord,” you beamed, pulling back from the embrace to take in the sight of the man before you. A man still just as perfect as he once was.

“My Lady,” he smiled, his cheeks rosy as the sound of your voice washed over him still, though he would claim it was due to the cold, “I—I almost fear that I am simply imagining you or that it cannot possibly be you.”

You giggled, biting your lip as you felt his eyes linger intensely on yours, “It’s me, Artie. The same old Princess Y/N/N. Could we talk, perhaps, in private?”

He quirked his brow as he looked down at you, before nodding and leading you elsewhere. You noticed what you assumed to be his servant following close behind, but Arthur dismissed him with haste and he hovered seemingly just out of earshot instead, “Don’t worry about Merlin. I’ll introduce you after.”

You grinned nervously, still taken aback by even being in his presence.

“Little has changed, I see,” he laughed, before leaning to whisper, “You are still as beautiful as ever.”

“Unfortunately, Arthur, that— that’s why I am here,” you frowned at the ground, refusing to catch his eye again, “In fact, a lot has changed.”

“What do you mean, my love?”

“Arthur I—, I—, I have come here to bestow an invitation upon you.”

Arthur’s face twisted in further confusion, a frown set on his face as your words worried him, “An invitation?”

“To my wedding,” you gulped, watching the colour drain from his features as you spoke the dreaded words, “I am to be married in a fortnight.”

Arthur took a step back and you could now no longer feel his breath fanning across your face. You had waited an age to be reunited and to be doing so on these terms was agonising.

“This must be a joke, Princess. Tell me it’s a joke. Please, tell me it’s a joke?”

The tears that had been pricking at your eyes fell freely now as the weight of your confession crashed down upon you.

You would never love a man like you loved Arthur — it was an impossibility and you knew it. Your betrothal was merely the result of your father’s ill health and the influence of your fiancé - his closest advisor.

You were all but trapped in this engagement, and you had to make that clear to Arthur.

Your father had intended to send his Knights to invite the Prince and King Uther, but you had insisted upon breaking the news yourself.

Some small piece of you hoped that Arthur would object so profusely that he would instead beg for your hand — because you knew your father’s love for Camelot might outweigh the influence of Lord F/N and he might change his mind.

But you feared that this was merely a pipe dream, knowing that Arthur’s pride might in fact act as a barrier to his honesty.

He had missed you immeasurably too, of course, and Merlin’s prying eyes and ears couldn’t let Arthur be so silly. He might know Arthur to be a prat, but he wasn’t about to let him waste his chance at getting you back.

Besides, he knew he wouldn’t be able to cope with the moping.

“Arthur, I’m sorry—,”

“Who is it? Who is he?”

“I don’t—,”

“I must know.”

“It— I— I am to be wed to Lord F/N…”

Arthur’s face almost seemed to wash with relief for a moment, before the former strained expression returned. Sure — he could assume you weren’t in love with your betrothed, but regardless you were getting married to a man that wasn’t him.

“Is this a strategic marriage, would you say?” Trust Merlin to interject so impertinently and at such an awkward time.

You looked taken aback, perplexed by the servant boy’s apparent lack of manners, “Excuse me?”

“Apologies, my Lady, but I only ask for the Prince’s sake because I fear he won’t, and I know he wants to. Desperately, actually,” the cheeky grin on his face and Arthur’s wide eyes told you this behaviour was not unusual of him, “Is this marriage purely for the sake of your kingdom, then? Or a love match?”

Of course he knew the answer. It was clear as day — every bordering kingdom knew of your father’s declining health, and of Lord F/N having worked his way up to become his closest confidante.

“Artie— You know I love my father dearly,” you were practically pleading with him as you began to answer, addressing him instead of his servant, “And he cares for Lord F/N. I do hope that one day I might love him. Until then… Well, you have to understand that I have no choice.”

The frown on Arthur’s face was an agonising sight for you to see.

“I’m surprised there was no marriage alliance between your kingdom and Camelot, my Lady,” Merlin continued, still smirking, and Arthur elbowed him in the side, “Ow! I’m just saying… I’m sure the King would have obliged. His heir, wedded to a woman who will also be Queen in her own right. Two kingdoms so aligned. More power. Seems a no brainer to me. But eh, a wedding is a wedding to me! Even if it should be Arthur you’re marrying.”

Arthur looked distraught by Merlin’s outburst.

You couldn’t figure out what to say.

“Right. Leaving you to it. I’ll be just over there.”

Arthur shooting daggers at him had clearly finally hit him, and he scampered off, leaving you and Arthur staring intensely into each other’s eyes.

“Do you think…” you began, your voice barely a whisper as you looked down at your feet for a moment, “Do you think that he is right? Your servant? Do you share his belief that our fathers would agree to such an idea?”

Arthur fought the twitch of a smile threatening to erupt on his face now that you’d expressed even the slightest hope that that could be an option for you.

“I do,” he nodded, capturing your hands in his as he spoke, “And I’d be lying if I said that I hadn’t hoped I might have the chance to propose that while you were here. I’m not the childish boy I once was — well, for the most part — and to marry the woman I love as well as strengthening my kingdom? I can think of nothing I’d like more.”

You tried desperately to suppress the butterflies in your stomach at the sound of the words “The woman I love.”

“But would King Uther agree?”

Arthur scoffed, “My father despises Lord F/N, the meddlesome bloody fool. He would have us married today if it pushed that man into obscurity. He’s the reason our kingdoms have become so much less closely allied in recent years. Our fathers rarely see each other because of his interventions.”

You gulped, taking stock of what he had just said and pondering what this might mean.

“And that’s the truth?”

“Would I ever lie to you, Y/N/N?”

At this you sighed — you knew he wouldn’t. You knew he was always honest with you, even if you were the only person who ever had the fortune of being graced with this honesty.

You glanced around you, acknowledging that nobody was looking but your guards, and pulled him behind a wall nearby into the quiet of where Merlin had previously been lurking.

Your hands found his jaw and you tiptoed to kiss him, breathless at the spontaneity of your actions. He was quick to kiss back (and as good of a kisser as you remembered!) and before you knew it he had your back against the wall and deepened the kiss with parted lips.

You were like this for a few moments, before you placed a hand on his chest, feeling the fast thrum of his heartbeat, and shot him a beaming smile.

“Well, what are we waiting for? Where might we find your father?”

———

ok so i had so much fun writing that !!! i hope you enjoyed, i could make this a two parter if anyone would want? (either about them discussing w uther or about the wedding itself? please let me know if you’d like either of those!)

requests are still open as i’m finally back writing, but in the meantime here is my masterlist!

[spideytiger]

Okay so mass amounts have people have asked me to explain further about non-verbal phantommy (2 people). So I've decided to divulge further into this hc and why I think this would be canon and real if we ever got to see him.

Reason number 1: ctommy definitely has brain damage. He was beaten to death once by cdream, and beaten to near death earlier in the pit by ctechno. Both infamously strong figures on the dsmp. Plus, on doomsday, he was struck by lightning; though many debate how canon that moment was. But to put it simply: my mans has serious brain damage. It's impressive how much he retains post revival. It wouldn't be out of the question that his brain damage caused his ghost to be non-verbal, not having the real capacity to form words or sentences.

Reason number 2: Using other ghosts as examples (mainly ghostbur, a bit of glatt), we see that the personality of their specters, vs the people they are derived from are vastly different; opposites, even. alivebur was erratic, and to most, downright unlikeable towards the end. But ghostbur was predictable, and I feel a lot of the community, and canon characters, mourned the loss of ghostbur more than the loss of alivebur. Another example we see is glatt; though less from him. cschlatt, like him or not, made memorable speeches, ones that terrified enemies, and brought pride to his allies. But, looking at glatt, we see him reduced to something far different, similar to a pokémon, unable to say anything but his own name. If we apply the same "opposite" logic to phantommy, then what people remember as the loud and brash Tommyinnit, being reduced to a mute ghost, doesn't seem too out of the picture.

Thats all I have to say to defend this hc! This was a lot more than I thought it would be, but do enjoy (I hope). Feel free to add onto the hc if youd like or ask more questions but thats all I've got.

[aesteries]

⋆✴︎˚。⋆ ─ ❝sweetling❞ ─ aemond targaryen and original female character. ❝alicent hightower's youngest daughter, haera targaryen, has returned to king's landing after eight long years in old town and aemond finds himself inexplicably drawn to the girl kissed by the moon and with the eyes that seem to only look at him.❞

how could i not love eyes that see me in all my forms as beautiful?

〔incest, innocence and fantasies, fluff and romance, smut, virginity, events of blood and cheese, family rivalry, disabled main character, hints of book!aemond, modified show!timeline and events.〕

words: 1k. series' masterlist.

                 STORM'S END. 

Prince Aemond Targaryen, the second son of the late King Viserys I, arrived at the gates of Storm’s End under the peak of thunder, announced by the earth-shattering roar of Vhagar; his arrival was as unexpected as it was ominous. The storm that raged in the land mirrored the beginning of the burning turmoil within the real, preparing the stage for the battle of blood to come. Lord Borros Baratheon, though still clad in his nightclothes and with sleep clouding his thoughts, had no other choice but to welcome the royal visitor despite the late hour.

The household was thrown into a whirlwind of activity, with the servants rushing to light the lamps and prepare food, while the highborn members put on their finest clothes to impress the prince. The air changed, a mixture of anxiousness and anticipation as they gathered to take a glimpse of the dragonrider. Prince Aemond Targaryen presented himself as a friend of House Baratheon, as an ally, as someone to be trusted, and as the carrier of a very important message. He announced the passing of his father and presented his older brother as the rightful King of the Seven Kingdoms, urging Lord Borros and his people to pledge their alliance to the legitimate ruler. He assured them that by doing so, they would ensure the continued prosperity and peace of Storm's End.

However, Lord Borros was a calculated man and an opportunist. He needed more to be swayed and so demanded something in exchange for his alliance, arguing that the Crown had long overlooked House Baratheon and waved away the blood relationship to Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, brushing her off as insignificant for failing to establish a connection to Storm's End. Yet Prince Aemond persisted, sharing that being on the right side of history would be enough benefit for the House, but Lord Borros remained steadfast on his demands, insisting that a political alliance between a member of the Targaryen House and one of his daughters would be enough to seal the deal.

Prince Aemond's mind flashed back to the conversation he'd had with his grandsire, Otto Hightower, filled with threats and warnings of the dangers to come if he did not secure alliances to their causes, and he realised, with regret and resignation, that the older man had been right all along and he had been foolish to believe he would leave free from the Stormlands. He agreed then to a match between himself and one of the Lord's daughters, who lined them up to present them to him like cattle to slaughter.

The exact details of what happened next remain shrouded in mystery—too many words and too many people with contradicting stories. Some of them claim that the prideful prince, driven by entitlement, proceeded to sample the cunts of all three Baratheon daughters and ultimately chose the sophisticated beauty of Lady Floris Baratheon, the beauty of Storm's End. However, others claim differently and suggest that Prince Aemond refused the advances of the young women and only chose Floris Baratheon, as she shared the same disdain for the situation as him.

The excitement over the announcement of the betrothal between Prince Aemond and Floris Baratheon had barely settled when an unexpected arrival disrupted the cheerful atmosphere. Prince Lucerys Velaryon, the young son of the self-proclaimed Queen Rhaenyra, strode through the doors, followed by lines of guards and with a message of his own in his hands. It is reported that as his eyes met those of Prince Aemond, the golden envelope with his mother's sigil stumbled out of his hands and onto the floor.

When presented with Rhaenyra Targaryen's claim to the throne and summons of House Baratheon, Lord Borros repeated the same demands he had given Prince Aemond, a cruel smirk on his lips as he observed the smaller prince, face etched with shock. The boy, publicly betrothed to Princess Haera by decree of King Viserys I himself, struggled to form words at the audacity of Lord Borros. Unlike Aemond, who had yet to take a marriage pact, Lucerys was bound by the word of the King. Borros offered a tantalising proposition: if Lucerys were to break his betrothal to Haera and wed one of his daughters, he would pledge his allegiance to Rhaenyra's claim.

Lord Borros, recognising the potential for a catastrophic conflict between the blood of the dragons, ordered his men to intervene as Aemond strode forward with his sword in hand when Lucerys attempted to dismiss himself, preventing a tragic confrontation between the two young princes.

In the end, Lucery Velaryon's mission was a failure. He was ridiculed in front of the crowd at Storm's End, his pride shattered to pieces. Prince Aemond seized the opportunity, mounting his dragon to pursue the fleeing prince in a dangerous dance above the clouds and demanding for his eye. Lucerys was a skilled rider, but he was no warrior, so he pleaded for mercy on the back of his young dragon as he was chased through the sky by no other than the monstrous shape of Vhagar. His pleas fell on deaf ears, and the one-eyed prince's mocking laughter echoed through the stormy sky. It was only when Lucerys mentioned the name of Princess Haera Targaryen that the situation took a deadly turn.

The prince's dragon, Arrax, was no match for Vhagar, and as the chase intensified, Aemond's bloodlust fuelled his dragon's instincts, and sensing his need for vengeance, he acted accordingly. Her massive jaws opened around the smaller dragon and almost swallowed him whole. While some have argued that the tragic death of Lucerys Velaryon was an accident or product of adrenaline, the truth was far more sinister. With a twisted sense of satisfaction, Prince Aemond watched as the lifeless forms of Arrax and his rider plummeted into the sea, death and destruction, a testament to his victory and a reminder of the power he wielded.

And with his death, the war of ravens and envoys and marriage pacts came to an end, and the war of fire and blood began in earnest. 

[jenyifer]

So bad news I may started writing a fic for SVSSS. Now will it be poly like my only friends fic? Ehhh??? Probably not *squints* maybe. 🤔 anyways thought I’d share incase there is already a fic like it or if people won’t enjoy it. Came up with the idea as I thought about how LBH is SQH’s self insert as an author it’s easier to put a lot of yourself into the main character. Yeah it’s an idealized sexy man meat mountain of a man but I think the chaotic clingy curly hair comes from Airplane. So I thought welll what if SQQ is an idealized version of an older student bully who was cold collected things Airplane had a big fat gay crush on which is why he wanted his self insert to be changed by SQQ and kill him.

So just a simple not so simple reversal. MBJ and LBH are friends irl. LBH unknowingly reads and simps for the universe MBJ writes in his free time. The plot of (yet to be named web novel) is more about demon emperor SQQ solving mystery’s and crisis by being intelligent and alluring he’s also overly powerful with his ally Northern King SQH who is chaotic and resourceful. Most people ship SQQ and SQH together even though the romance elements in the webnovel are few and far between and usually some unobtainable one night stands with the villain or tragic woman who will be killed the next day. LBH loves SQQ has all the merch. LBH finds out MBJ is the writer after he reads the latest chapter where SQH is cursed with demise under his skin making him weaken to be a shell of his demonic self. The dialogue between SQQ and SQH is creepily reminiscent of the conversation LBH had with MBJ when LBH had revealed he is dying because of late stage cancer. Of course SQQ is prepared to do anything to save his best friend sacrificing who he was because their friendship means more than the demon empire or SQQ’s morals. SQQ sacrifices his demonic energy to save his friend. Accompanying this chapter was an extra of a clumsy drawing saying this is what the ice king’s original drafts of the characters for the artists. LBH couldn’t help but notice how similar his characteristics are to SQH curly hair terribly thin and short while radiating power through his crazy expression and SQQ was tall and stoic and LBH is horrified to realize his best friend MBJ sees himself this way tall with straight hair with an aura of superiority. When LBH confronts MBJ about the webnovel MBJ who is normally silent and a shut in exclaims that of course it’s his novel. MBJ wanted to dream about a world where they could go out and have adventures together was that such an evil thing? LBH shouts that in this reality he’s going to die and what will MBJ do then. Everything shifts into a portal and they are brought into the webnovel. LBH a half Demon hiding his identity on one of the peaks a student under MBJ who is a peak lord. They decided if they are there they might as well find SQH and SQQ for plot reasons. Haha anyways idk if I can write something like that since… I have to work…. Also the cancer thing might be too real for me (I think it’s been 15 years since I lost a close friend to cancer) But I want to write it 😭

[justallihere]

THE WAY YOU JUST DROPPED THE NEWEST CHAPTER OUT OF NOWHERE?????? EXCUSE ME ???? I was literally bored out of my mind and ignoring work responsibilities and then you dropped this? It was divine intervention.

so many thoughts so please bear with me

I appreciate how succinctly you wrapped up the Tecarus/luminary conversation. We don't need to spend unnecessary time reading more about him and his annoying niece (Cat not Syrena)

Drake fucking with Xaden has got to happen more often. I have this plot in my head, that Drake will just be "innocently" talking with Vi, and Vi knows what Drake is doing but plays along with it bc it annoys Xaden. Drake feels like that annoying older brother that just wants to fuck with the younger siblings in a good-natured way

Love me some DrakexMira moments... or well Drake staring at Mira and her not giving him the time of day. That's one of my favorite tropes ngl.

Xaden is so open and free with his smiles around Vi and I am equal parts disgusted and happy for him. I love and hate them your honor!!!!

IM SO GLAD WE GOT A SLOANE/DAIN MOMENT. Ngl I forgot abt them but when I read that part, I remembered the bit that didn't make it where Sloane was ogling Dain fighting Cam. man has a TYPE!!!! Poor guy likes her and Sloane is being a bit of a tsundere (idk if you know that term but she's being hot/cold)

I'm imagining the affronted/scandalized look on Vi's face when Xaden didn't share the tea about Dain+Sloane, meanwhile, Xaden just wants to kiss the shit out of her. I HATE THEM SO MUCH

Question: Did they have to imbue the wardstone like they did in canon, or was this assumed that it happened in the background (correct me if I'm wrong about my canon knowledge 💀)

Let me tell you, when I was screaming at poor Vi in canon when she skipped around in Warrick/Lyra's journals (I don't blame her, shes like what 21??? and stressed out her mind and everyone is also like in their early 21s) BUT I'm glad that in SITQ she started from the beginning.

The way I audibly GASPED when the guard was like "your mother is here". I was literally thinking a minute before, when the venin was threatening Violet, that theyre going to use her mother to lure her out (not that, that isn't in the realm of possibility) but I was worried for Liilth's health and safety after that threat. BUT MAMA SORRENGAIL IS BACK AND IM HERE FOR THE DRAMA.

I have this fear that Violet is going to potentially pull from the earth to save everyone.... bc that threat from the venin was ominous as HELL, but like that won't happen right?? right???????? RIGHT ALLI????

Questions

So like are we going to see Jack and Nolon make a comeback??? Bc fuck those two but if its for the plot then I guessss I can deal with it (i say this with uptmost respect and lets be real here. I will still eat up anything you post, I'm just being nosey)

are Mira and Bren going to make up? or is that like a background thing?

also will we see more of Mira and Drake (sorry i feel like im being extra nosey this time so just ignore these questions)

I gave a few hour warning this time!! I’ve been editing it for a week and I was over it lmao

Tecarus was a necessary evil for, like, one second, but Violet got what she needed and she wasn’t going to spend extra time entertaining him. And I wasn’t going to spend time writing drama with the fliers 😌

Drake is so FUNNY I love him, he’s an OC basically but if he ends up different in canon than I’ve imagined him I’m going to be irrationally upset. He’s just like “Xaden lighten up dude” and Xaden is going “please don’t ever look at my wife ever again” and Vi thinks it’s hilarious.

Mira has more thoughts about him than she lets on though 🙊 like she notices his attention for SURE

Sloane and Dain are so much fun (everyone say thank you @skyfallscotland for putting the idea in my head). Can’t wait to write more of them!! Violet is so offended though, like this is information she wanted to know?? And Xaden’s like it serves zero purpose?? Let her gossip idk

Re: imbuing yeah yeah that’s a thing for sure in canon, but I need sleep and a beta reader sooooo. . . pretend it happened at some point, I’ll go back later and add something in about that lmao 😁👍🏻

Lilith is back!!!! I have been waiting for Lilith to be back 😩 family drama next chapter, pray for Violet’s sanity. The venin are venin-ing, we gotta up the stakes a lil because we’re almost to the end

Nolon and Jack and their roles are still a bit up in the air, I’m still working out the specifics of what they’ll do. Mira & Brennan and Mira & Drake are also a toss up, but only because I want to write another one shot in this universe from Mira’s POV and I’m trying to decide what will make it on page in sitq and what I’ll save for that

Thank you as always babe!!!

[yanderes-for-everyone]

Title: Dreaming Freedom

Summary:

Jeongmin is a loner in high school being bullied by the Queen Bee, Juhyeon. The two were friends in elementary school before their friendship ended because of Juhyeon's demand that Jeongmin should only be friends with her. Juhyeon uses this "betrayal" to fuel the classmates' insults and isolate Jeongmin in misery. Jeongmin has only one way to escape, through lucid dreams. One day, a mysterious man enters her dreams and offers to help her get revenge on Juhyeon... (webtoon)

Status: Ongoing

My Feelings About It: (SPOILER FREE)

This is another classic...Siyun is a near perfect yandere. He doesn't really start showing signs until chapter 34 (there are currently 121 episodes), but once he does he's amazing. I found this series on webtoon and literally I would always be there right at 9 with coins in hand to buy the latest episode.

I think my favorite part of this manhwa is the development of Siyun's obsession. It feels like he has a good reason to be infatuated with the fl. Don't get me wrong, sometimes I'm totally okay with just seeing obsession without any real build up, but I've found that I'm usually more satisfied when there is. Both the fl and ml are completely isolated and grow to greatly depend on one another; and we get to see that development.

The first 34 episodes of the manhwa establish who the fl is and what she's been through, who the antagonists/allies are, how lucid dreaming works, and give us glimpses of our ml to create an air of mystery. Then, having all of that information, we can truly appreciate why the fl and ml start to connect. From that point on, we see Siyun's attachment to the fl increase; the more he's around her the more he needs her. And as his affection grows, so does his fear of losing her, which causes yandere shenanigans to ensue.

I think this is another manhwa where I think the fl is well written. She is multi-dimensional and isn't just a self insert (though those have their place too.) And lastly, I want to mention that Juhyeon (the "Queen Bee") is also yandere-ish. She's definitely no where as unhinged as the ml, but you still get two yanderes in one.

Overall, it's one of my favorite yandere manhwa and I would definitely recommend checking it out.

Manhwa Rating: 9/10

Yandere Rating: 8/10*

*this means the ml's yandere intensity

[alicentsultana]

Since I have trust issues with HOTD but a lot of trust with you ,I would life to ask ,how would you imagine the whole Alicole buildup for that scene?

We all are collectively trembling about this omg. Thanks for trusting me 🤗🙈 I would need to write a serious scene to express everything, but let's call this a conversational rambling draft

This is a imagine and a headcannon (for those who are coming to look for the rumors)

Ok so let's go with two (ideal) possibilities:

1. Before b&c

I would say they would need to meet after a tense council reunion, or something along stressful and bordering chaotic - we can also talk about the riot scene, though we don't know when that scene will happen.

They would need to spend some time together, so their "free time" would be night as they now are very busy people, it would also need to happen away from Larys Strong, he have an agenda.

If we go more into discussions over political/realm matters, it probably would involve wine and I don't really think it would evolve a openly/overly romantic dialog. But we could enter in diverse matters, including the elephant in the room- Rhaenyra. They could discuss about their feelings and how their story turned out because of poor choices and their involvement with the targs. We know through the delete dialogs that Criston would often flirt with alicent (courtly love! courtly love! courtly love!), so he could do it and also express being displeased with some lord in the council or otto trying to marry her off again, something along these lines.

However, Alicent could be open to it in a very it doesn't really matter doesn't really really matter (AW you will always be famous) and just advance over him, let's test how devoted he is- and yk there's no husband around, but I don't know about his oath, because it will be brought up, but criston is not just a knight anymore, and this man had to ask for lemon cake out of season because Queen Alicent asked him for while she was pregnant, there's nothing he wouldn't do if she simply asks.

"Would you break your oath again? for me, as your queen?"

"I will not fail you."

Hahaha sorry, I had to.

Despite the back and forth I believe they would be rather passionate about it. They deserve it. I think this would fall into your wishes for a slower moment, they would be taking their time.

The outcome of it, however, could result in a fallout (that I think is not the case bc they have a high amount of trust into each other and one time wouldn't break it only leave some thirst and want or would result in religious guilt because b&c will happen anyway.

2. After b&c

I picture it as a "take my mind out of it" or/and a desperate "need you rn", this one would be more idk heavy? Fast? Blood, sweat and tears (figurative blood***)? I'm my own victim. But I believe this outcome would be way more hot and sexy for the amount of feelings. It def would fall into my wishes for no candlelight and clothes in the floor.

After b&c would definitely be more of a fleeting moment, especially if it's only one time/first time, because it will be desperate, but also very dependent, showing how they depend on each other, Alicent has no one but her children, otto don't count much, and others are allies, Criston raised her kids, both saw each other at their lowest, and b&c will be a blow to everyone of them, and he included, he's a grandpa, I take no criticism. So it would be something both of them need, for everything that happens between them.

I like tragedy so I would love to see it happen after b&c, for the raw emotion of it, also, it would result in a much more open and intrinsic need for each other and the deep dependence be more exposed/more real, more noticeable. Alicent would feel guilty anyway, in a should have been grieving but I'm fucking instead, but I don't think it will affect her so much.

Conclusion: in both cases, I don't think Criston will be forceful, simply because he never was to her, he's just her Husky, hers. I also believe that he would incentive her to ask, "you can ask me anything you want and I'll give it to you.", we have seen him as her extension, and how he's just always there no matter what, so I don't think it would be any different in their sex scene.

Oh no, I'll need to write it, I'm sorry for my wips

This pic got me so much I'll glue it on my wall next to saint alicent of the broken hearts-

[cienie-isengardu]

Bi-Han rolled a -100 for intelligence in that scene when he outright told Kuai he let their dad die.

Bi-Han underestimated Kuai's loyalty to him because he must've really thought bragging how cool it was he let their dad die was gonna make his brother revere him. It's surprising given Kuai made it clear he loved their dad and Bi-Han somehow thought admitting he let him die would make his loyalty to him absolute.

I don’t think Bi-Han telling Kuai Liang the truth about their father’s death has anything to do with intelligence or desire to brag.

For me, that scene was Bi-Han’s frustration at its breaking point - the story mode did not present us much of Lin Kuei brothers interaction but even within the limited space it showed that Bi-Han couldn't do anything, not even just complain for waiting who knows how long without Tomas and Kuai Liang constantly talking about their Father and what the man would want from them. And yes, complaining may be inappropriate, even childish for Grandmaster to do, but for all we know Bi-Han just wanted to vent in frustration to his brothers in the privacy only to be frustrated even more by them bringing father into discussion.

And this pattern is repeated during their mission. Whatever Bi-Han will say, be it a remark about glory (a trivial detail) or wish for breaking from the past, Tomas and Kuai Liang will again and again either bring up tradition or talk about what their father would do.

Sub-Zero let their father die for what he thought was Lin Kuei’s best interest and in theory he should be finally free from the man’s influences. Including man’s teaching Bi-Han considered part of the reason why Lin Kuei was shackled and bound to unfair servitude.

Instead, even more than before everything revolved around the dead man to the point Sub-Zero outright asked if their father’s ghost possessed Kuai Liang (and Tomas?).

Because apparently his brothers didn’t have anything on their own to add into discussion - and frankly, they did not provide any real counterargument why Lin Kuei should stick to the centuries-old servitude to Earthrealm that didn’t come down to “tradition” and “father said so” - two things that Bi-Han already was in process or rejecting.

And then, when Bi-Han finally made his mind about allying with Shang Tsung what Kuai Liang did? Of course he talked about father

and I think this was the one too many mentions of father, the proverbial last straw that broke the camel's back. Telling the truth was not part of any great scheme, it wasn’t even about Kuai Liang itself, but it was a moment of catharsis for Bi-Han alone. 

We don’t have an idea when the previous Grandmaster died - Bi-Han could lie to his brothers about that accident for days, weeks, months or even years. The act of letting father die and lying about that burdened him, maybe even trapped more than he was before and Shang Tsung’s offer provided him both an occasion to cut off Lin Kuei ties with Liu Kang and finally to admit what he had done. The catharsis though doesn’t come from the act of admitting committed crime, because Bi-Han had no regrets about that at this point, but because he was so done with lying for Kuai Liang’s comfort and peace of mind...

...all so his younger brother could be safely tucked in his delusion about Lin Kuei’s honorable traditions; that Bi-Han if not loved then at least missed and grieved after their father as he and Tomas did; that they all were the happy family - still family - when Bi-Han’s wish for change overshadowed his sentiments for parent long ago.

I think that scene is just the breaking point of Bi-Han’s frustration - a frustration we were both told by Scorpion (“I knew Bi-Han's frustrations ran deep. But I never thought they could inspire such madness”) and showed in interaction between brothers preceding Sub-Zero’s betrayal. I doubt Bi-Han even planned to tell Kuai Liang truth, especially at this moment, but my guess is he just couldn’t take anymore hearing only father this, father that, again and again and again. Every person has a breaking point and I suspect the last Scorpion’s remark about father and how he would turn in his grave - especially this one about his death - is what made Bi-Han to spill out the truth straight into Kuai Liang’s face, cutting deep with the remark I lied because you couldn’t and still can see the truth.

It was no planned and probably the most sincere Bi-Han’s moment, because finally he was speaking his mind bluntly, finally escaping the trap of a lie he told Kuai Liang and Tomas to spare them from the brutal truth, but a trap that turned against him, because his brothers holded even more stubbornly to tradition and father’s teaching. Only unconsciously increasing Bi-Han’s frustration. 

Did Bi-Han believe that Kuai Liang and Tomas would support his claims? It sounds like a foolish assumption on his part, but I guess he still wanted his brothers on his side (even if the man has a problem with communicating that, I think?). Definitely wanted them more than he cared for father. And well, if Kuai Liang did not bring father in that moment, who knows, maybe Bi-Han would kept the lie alive for much longer?