#also I wasn't sure what to title this so feel free to make suggestions

[choerypetal]

Distraction / Coriolanus Snow

Summary : Coriolanus and You are both selected as mentors, and let just say that he whenever you feel a little too 'sociable' he gets distracted and would make sure to who you belong to.

Enjoy! (English isn't my first language, so I apologize for any mistake)

To ascend to the role of mentor demanded a blend of finesse, charisma, and an unblemished demeanor, qualities reserved for the privileged echelons of Panem's chosen. The revelation of one's inclusion wasn't a mere announcement but a unstable pause, a stillness punctuated by the resounding utterance of names until, unmistakably, yours found its place on the coveted list. 

Now, endowed not only with the prestigious title but also the requisite capability, you navigated the ensuing challenges with a sense of latent assurance. Throughout the process, an uncanny awareness gripped you, a conviction that Coriolanus’ watchful gaze bore into your very essence. An enigmatic conflict brewed within him, an unspoken desire for your exclusion even as he showered relentless accolades upon you. 

In the covert depths of nocturnal meetings within his private sanctuary, his expressions wove a tapestry of profound admiration and genuine regard. Strikingly absent was any semblance of feigned surprise at your nomination, suggesting an anticipation of fate's alignment. "Y/N, step forward." Your name resonated with a meticulous pride in the legacy of your family, prompting you to descend gracefully along with your peers. One by one, individuals were chosen to assume the pivotal role of mentor, all for what ultimate purpose? The perilous pursuit of victory in the Hunger Games.

Coriolanus, in stark contrast, observed each nuance of your demeanor. Whether it was your poised rise from the chair, the exuberant cheers of your friends celebrating your selection, or the unmistakable pleasure tinged with a touch of envy directed toward the other male. You consistently confided in Coriolanus about the depth of your friendship with this individual. However, despite your forewarnings and the reassurances delivered in your angelic voice, it appeared that these declarations did little to prevent Coriolanus from appreciating in disgust, the subtlest of gestures exchanged between you and your friend in that crucial moment—a simple yet profound hug.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Coriolanus lingered at the entrance, anticipating your emergence. A fervent desire to claim your attention exclusively simmered within him, yet he judiciously postponed exploring those emotions, allowing you the space to break free from the throng. The spotlight gravitated toward the newly appointed mentors, Coriolanus included, but he deliberately sought the sanctuary of distance and its attendant consequences. 

In the midst of joyous embraces shared between you and your chosen classmate, the vibrant hues of your smiles illuminated the tableau. When your eyes inevitably locked with Coriolanus's, a fleeting yet authentic smile on your lips wove a narrative of a carefully crafted excuse, suggesting an impending meeting with an urgency that, beneath its surface, concealed the true intention of drawing near to Coriolanus himself. "And I pondered, how in the world could I ever be chosen." You remarked with a momentary pause, a self-assured smirk gracing your features as you finally drew close to Snow. To this, Snow responded with a mirrored smirk, acknowledging. "Told you that you'd be selected. Can't say I was mistaken this time."

Flashing a subtle eye roll in response to his confidently asserted demands, you couldn't help but be amused by the way he carried himself. Not to mention, he felt the need to remind you of your privileged status as one of the select few chosen to be a mentor. Although you managed to conceal any traces of pride on your face, there was something intriguing about Coriolanus's sudden actions. The casual brush of his fingers against your waist, coupled with the assertive manner in which he approached you, conveyed a sense of control that he seemed to have gained from observing the ceremony. Despite the unexpected nature of his behavior, you didn't appear irritated; instead, you willingly let him take charge. 

Breaking the silence, you interjected with a pause, shifting your gaze momentarily from Coriolanus to your friend, who had earlier hinted at a noticeable intimidation for Coriolanus. Returning your gaze to Coriolanus, you added. "You know," With a slight emphasis. "If you continue with this overly protective demeanor, you might end up making the poor thing even more uncomfortable." The emphasis on the 'poor thing' became more pronounced as your full attention returned to Coriolanus.

"When do I ever come across as too cocky?" He inquired, arching a brow in a way that seemed designed to make you feel diminutive compared to his self-assured demeanor. As you observed him, you could have sworn his smirk subtly grew in response to the effect he was having on you. Moreover, he didn't shy away from expressing his desire, doing so with a degree of sophistication that bordered on subtle affection. If the dynamics of your relationship were as apparent as he made them seem, you might have suspected he was merely engaging in this for amusement. Consequently, he left you with no choice but to respond to his probing question. "I am genuinely surprised that I can endure such teasing." You replied, somewhat taken aback by the unexpected turn of the conversation.

As the room gradually emptied, you sensed Coriolanus' breath drawing nearer to your skin. His warm presence had a dual effect, both intimidating and strangely comforting, especially when his arm casually encircled your waist, indicating no intention of letting go. His gaze softened as he noticed the subtle glimmer in your eyes in response to his proximity, even though you hadn't consciously tried to make it obvious. "You know, you look oddly beautiful today." He remarked. Stepping back slightly offended from his comment, you decided to play along in this familiar game that invariably concluded with a well-timed kiss between the two of you. “You don’t look bad yourself.” 

In that moment, you experienced the gentle touch of his lips effortlessly gliding across your skin. Starting from your neck, his plush lips skillfully caressed and sucked at your soft flesh, leaving marks that would need to be concealed for the coming week, if not a few months, should he persist. Instead of dissuading him, you found yourself suggesting he continue, and he did. His free hand roamed down your entire body, drawing you closer to him. "You are mine," He asserted relentlessly, repeating the declaration without warning, as his lips now yearned for the connection with yours. "Mine until the end." He proclaimed with a conviction that left no room for doubt. 

"I am yours." Your voice whispered softly, almost like suppressed whimpers escaping your lips as you endeavored to keep any audible sounds at bay. The awareness of being in a public space heightened the need for discretion, as the uncertainty of potential intruders loomed. "Yours until eternity, Coriolanus Snow." You added. His smile widened, and amid the kisses, you felt his teeth gently sinking into your bottom lip, eliciting more of those restrained whimpers and a silent plea for him to continue. "We should be careful not to get caught." You reminded him, although his affections only intensified, fueling a growing desire for more. "Who cares if someone sees us, sweetheart," he dismissed, his words brushing aside any concern for discretion.

"I do." A voice, familiar yet elusive in its identification, caused both of you to freeze in place. Coriolanus' grip on your arm tightened, the intensity more pronounced this time. He refused to release it, his brows furrowing in anger. It was evident that the intrusion had upset him more than either of you could have anticipated.

Volumnia Gaul fixed her gaze on both of you, her eyes piercing and unwavering. A pause lingered, seemingly devoted to contemplating the fate she had in mind for the two of you, not to mention devising a fitting punishment. Her reluctance to do so was palpable, considering your shared reputation as the Academy's top students and mentor. "Dr. Volumnia Gaul..." Coriolanus broke the silence with his response. In his defense, given the way he had left you in a state of supplication and submission, you found yourself rendered in silent, unable to offer any immediate rebuttal. “I can explain.” 

"No need for it." She remarked, despite being well aware of the relationship dynamics between you and Coriolanus. While part of you yearned to inquire about the how of her knowledge, the weight of Gaul's reputation, coupled with her own legacy, left you feeling restless and apprehensive. The fear of inviting punishment held you back from probing further. However, to your surprise, Gaul chose not to impose any retribution. "Just be careful next time, especially you, Snow." She cautioned, emphasizing the importance of discretion in your interactions. 

As her figure faded from view, you raised a skeptical brow in response to her remark, a shared laughter ensuing from the peculiar conclusion it left. "What did she mean by 'be careful'?" An undercurrent of concern swept through you, but Coriolanus reassured you with a gentle caress on your face, assuring you that everything would be okay. "Nothing, I suppose. My distraction just makes me a little too vulnerable at times." He confessed. Observing him closely, you tilted your head with a smirk playing on your lips. "And..." You paused for a moment, carefully choosing your words. "Am I the distraction?"

“You are.” 

[azrielsshadows42]

A Court of Scales and Fire V

A/n: Sry about the wait, I had assessment after assessment plus 2 exams, then I had massive writer's block, but it is here, finally. Thank you all so much for your patience. This is also my submission for @erisweekofficial, day 7: free, I'm hoping this will help get my story out there. btw, you cannot read this as a stand alone it will not make sense.

Chapter 4 Character Moodboards

A/N: The dividers are made by @tsunami-of-tears , and comment 🐆 if you got the Kipo reference

Warnings: Swearing, No misogynistic Illyrian lords were harmed in the making of this chapter (unfortunately)

Both = Mind speak (Colour will vary depending on who is speaking)

Bold = Ancient Language

Italics = Thoughts

Word count: 3.2k (Excluding Recap)

Recap:

"Focus. I thought you said he's not your friend"

"He's not" I immediately replied with, saying it so fast I almost interrupted her. "If you're not friends, then why is he here?" I sighed deeply; this shit was not exactly my forte "He is the High Lord of Autumn, we made a deal with him a little while ago, and now we have an alliance" That was explained terribly, but it will have to do.

"What does he want now?" My eyes shot toward where the 'discussion' would surely be taking place, as if I could see through the walls, right to where Eris was standing and glare at him to make sure he didn't try anything stupid.

"No idea"

Rhysand's Pov

We sat there studying each other for a moment in silence. Ever since both ends of our bargain had been held up, Eris never visited the Night Court, he wasn't welcome here. Just because our courts were allies, for the benefit of the Autumn people, did not mean we suddenly liked each other, and it certainly gave him no authority to waltz into MY home, unannounced.

"What do you want, Eris?" My voice was cold, as it always was during official High Lord correspondence. His eyes regarded me with indifference, and he raised a goblet of wine to his lips, painfully slowly. I somehow had a feeling he did that just to grate on my nerves.

"I would have thought that brute of yours would have told you" He drawled. "While Under the Mountain, we were attacked by a witch who, as I understand is now under your roof, you wouldn't happen to know her, would you?" Eris took another slow drink from his glass, my eyes narrowed, sharp enough to cut through his mental barriers if I wanted. "Are you suggesting that I planted the female there?"

"Well, it is rather suspicious you learned of it and dispatched one of your dogs at the same time I did, especially considering how much farther the Night Court is from the place of incidence." His know-it-all tone annoyed me beyond belief, but I managed to speak my next words with the same cool indifference as the rest of this discussion. "We did not know her prior to the events of yesterday"

"Really? I could have sworn I heard her and your general talking earlier, they seemed pretty comfortable, has he tired of Nesta already? Typical of Illyrians." I failed to keep the rage out of my eyes, the anger out of my voice. "If there is nothing else you're here for, High Lord" The title was spat out like an insult "Then leave, now"

"Actually, Rhysand, there is" The words were spoken with a thoughtfulness that didn't match the fae speaking them. I did not say anything, did not deign him with a response, my silence was his invitation to elaborate.

"Recently my guards have found traces of people passing through Autumn with our regular traders, People I have not permitted, carrying with them something unfamiliar, and certainly not from any of the seven courts, nor the human lands as well as a mysterious break in the trees, perhaps your new little witch friend has something to do with it"

I considered that this might be true, though whether this female was a witch or if that was just another thing Eris assumed about her was unclear, although I also considered that these strange occurrences might be caused by the apparent weapon smuggler's Y/n told us of, in which case she is telling the truth, at least about this.

"We shall keep a close eye on her, in the meantime, she is innocent until proven guilty, and she is under the protection of the Night Court, so I believe it is time for you to take your leave" I stated it with finality in my voice that left no room for him to argue. The new Autumn High Lord huffs slightly in displeasure, but makes no retort, winnowing back to his Court without any further fuss, merely saying: "I will be back tomorrow".

I really hope I don't regret this.

The next morning - Y/n's Pov

It was early, the sun hadn't even crested over the mountain yet, Y/n was still in her guest silk night gown. She sat atop the massive bed, Everest in her lap. "Ok, granted, we haven't gotten anywhere with our mission" Her long leafy tail flicked a piece of lint off her knee, very pretentiously, in Y/n's opinion. "Told you." She would have retorted, but they both heard footsteps, judging by the length between each sound and how deep it was, she guessed it was Cassian. "Hide"

Y/n scrambled to the top and threw the linens over herself while Everest shrunk further to the size of a large mouse and crawled under the bed. The footsteps stopped right outside the door, then they were violently flung open. "Gooooood morning!" Cassian's booming voice sounded out into the room with a sing-song aspect to it. "Time to get up sleepy head" While yes, she was already awake, it was four-thirty in the morning, what the hell was he talking about?

"It's too early to be awake" came her grumbled response, she made sure her voice was deeper and slightly rasped. "You said you wanted to go to Illyria, right?" There was a pause in which she used to process what he had just said. "Really?" she questioned.

Cassian's grin brightened; he is way to energetic right now. What the hell does he put in his coffee, cause whatever it is, he needs to share, I need some of that too. "Really, but only if you get up now" His hazel eyes looked at me expectantly. I looked back at him, lips thinned. "Well are you going to leave so I can change?" That seemed to snap him out of it. "OH, right, right, yes, I'll leave" He bolted out, closing the door behind him.

Once they knew Cassian was out of earshot, Everest climbed back on to the bed giving Y/n the sassiest, most flat look a dragon could. "Illyria, really?" "What? I'm curious!" She rolled her emerald eyes.

"And what am I to do while you're out galivanting?" Y/n stood up from the bed, taking off her sleepwear and replacing it with her undergarments and armour. "Have you found a princess to torment yet?" Everest's head whirled around so fast she worried she might snap her own neck. "I will bite you." hissed Everest.

"Right, cause you've never bitten me before, I'll be in true agony, such unexpected pain" Y/n's words oozed sarcasm. Everest huffed, turned toward the open pavilion and flew out over Velaris, but not before throwing one last glare at Y/n, just for good measure.

Y/n put her hair up in a simple braided updo before exiting the bedroom. She grabs one of the sandwiches the house put on the table as she walked past and into the training room, where she assumed Cassian would be. Y/n was proven right when lo and behold, there stood the Night Courts general, next to their emissary, Mor. "Greetings, and salutations" she said cheerily, Cassian matched her energy while Mor appeared as if she would fall over any second. Someone clearly had not yet woken up. Y/n clapped my hands together "So, how are we getting there?"

"The lovely Morrigan will be winnowing us" Her eyes trailed the females tired form sceptically. "Does 'The Lovely Morrigan' know that?" Mor was now leaning almost all her body weight on Cassian. "Yeah, I asked her yesterday" She let out a grumble, opening her eyes a bit more while pushing off of Cassian. "You failed to mention that I needed to do it at four-thirty" He feigned confusion "Did I? Huh, must've slipped my mind, and technically, it's five now" This, unsurprisingly, didn't improve Mor's mood.

"Just get over here so I can go back to bed" They stepped closer to her, each putting a hand on her shoulder, the world warped, twisting and turning once more until they were on a snowy peak. The second they got there, Mor shook their hands off her, and winnowed back before they could thank her. It was not long after that the cold penetrated Y/n's armour. She shivered, and goose bumps rose on her skin under her sleeves.

"Not used to the cold?" She had been in plenty of cold places before, but usually Everest would be there to warm her up, always blocking the wind so she never felt it. "No, I'm fine with the cold, I just never knew this place warranted the use of igloos" Cassian laughed uproariously. "It's not that cold, if you want igloos, you'll find them in Winter" Y/n watched as their breath plumed out in front of them. "We'll agree to disagree"

Snow crunched ahead of them, Y/n could see three winged figures, one in front, the others trailing a few paces behind. She wasn't sure why, but she didn't like the vibe they gave off, and the middle one looked very punch-able. "Lord Devlon" Cassian said in greeting.

"Cassian" His eyes roamed over Y/n in distaste. "Have you brought another witch here?" She didn't know who this Devlon was talking about, or if Cassian had actually brought a witch here, but she decided if she was only going to be here once, then she'd have as much fun with it as she could.

"No, this time he got the witches mentor" Y/n grinned evilly at them. Panic flashed across Devlon's face, though he tried to conceal it. His companions however, made no such attempt. She could hear Cassian mutter under his breath saying "You and Nesta both" with an exasperated look and shook his head. Oh, so Nesta was the 'Witch' he'd brought last time, I should've guessed.

"She is here to learn, just like Nesta was" Devlon's eyes narrowed, his lips pursed and just a general air of supreme asshole about him. "No."

"We weren't asking" Cassian replies, with an edge to his voice. "I will not have you bring more disgrace to this camp" He sniped sharply. It was then, that Y/n stepped forward, her eyes dark, menace in every move she took. "Oh really, is that so?" To intimidate them, she started chanting in the ancient language of the dragon riders known as Draconic.

"Feta, Gouda, Chevre, Fromage"

The two lackies pulled their weapons as she made the marks around her eyes glow, Devlon's face revealed the fear he felt in that moment, even Cassian looked at her unsurely. "Stop, STOP IT THIS INSTANT" Y/n only chanted louder.

"FETA, GOUDA, CHEVRE, FROMAGE"

"Alright, alright, enough, you can train here, just stop your curses." The glowing faded and she plastered a sickly-sweet smile on her face watching Lord Devlon heave breath after breath. "Lovely, thank you so much for your generous hospitality"

Cassian's Pov

I was starting to think that maybe Eris wasn't entirely wrong about Y/n being a witch. I have never heard a language like that, and her face glowed, at least, some of it. And it has been officially confirmed that her and Nesta would get along swell. All she needs is a smut book in front of her and they're practically twins.

We walked through the camp, snow crunching beneath us, I could tell the cold was starting to get to her. I guided her past the buildings, pointing out certain shops, explaining anything she questioned. "Why was Devlon so pissy about me coming here? I mean, I get the whole 'No outsider's' thing, but it almost seemed personal.

"I'm not regarded very highly here, anyone I bring, he would immediately hate. I already brought Nesta here and she also said she was a witch, you can imagine how well that went over. And finally, you're another female I have brought to train, he doesn't want to lose more weapons. There is a superstition here that if a female touches a weapon, it will bring bad luck to the wielder" I winced, this was the part of Illyrian heritage I wished I could erase, it was silly, but mostly, I worried it would deter Y/n, make her want to leave.

To my surprise, she laughed. "Then my blades must be double cursed, they were forged by a female too" I couldn't help but chuckle at that. "They would lose their shit if you ever told them that"

We only stopped once we got to the furthest training ring in the camp, just in case she did anymore witch-stuff. "What exactly did you do back there?" Her brows pulled together in confusion, so I elaborated. "The chanting and the glowing eyes?"

"Oh, that was nothing" My eyes told her that was not enough of an answer. "I just said a bunch of words from a language we are taught when becoming trackers, and the marks on my face can glow when I tell them to, apparently it's got something to do with a survival tool that we no longer need, but still have the feature. If Lord misogyny is just gonna assume I'm a witch, I might as well have some fun with it."

As if Devlon didn't hate me enough, he gave me plenty of shit about bringing Nesta before even knowing she's not a witch. However there will be no way to convince him otherwise after that little stunt Y/n pulled.

"Are you ready for some real Illyrian training?" I asked as a challenge. She unsheathed her blades, spinning them around herself elaborately for show before crouching in a fighting stance, prepared to leap.

"Ready"

Eris's Pov

I was back at the house of wind, to my surprise, it was Rhysand who had contacted me about a meeting today, saying he did indeed have information about who he suspects is behind the unauthorised traders. I walked into the room, eyes scanning for imperfections, I found none, they prepared well, I'd give them that. Both Rhysand and Feyre were sitting at an immaculately set table, finger foods plated beautifully dotted its surface.

I sat down opposite Rhysand, my hands had not even touched the table before a commotion was heard, voices and wingbeats. My heart jumped for some unexplained reason, and I beat it down because who gave it the right to start flapping around like a lovesick puppy?

The witch and general came in while talking to each other loudly, they were both covered in sweat. She was flushed and panting, her hair littered with fly a ways, but I struggled to redirect my gaze from her form. Her armour shined in a way those Illyrian leathers Cassian wore could only dream of ever comparing.

"I take it back, I wasn't ready" she spoke, panting heavily as she walks over to the couch and collapses on it. "Told you so" She rose her upper body on her elbows, turning to face him. "Hey, you try doing my work out without breaking a sweat, mine is a lot more cardio" Cassian's face scrunched up. "I'm good, thanks"

"Perhaps Y/n should join this meeting, as it is her mission to capture the people causing these disturbances, yes?" She perked up, raising herself higher and twisting her body to face us. "You've heard more about the weapons league?"

"I believe your weapon smugglers are the strange people mingling with Autumn's merchants" Her face brightened, the streaks of blue in her eyes coming to the forefront. There was something about the idea of working with her, of being closer that just pulled me in, I can't explain it, and I am finding that it won't be long before I can't fight it either. That could not happen, I will not develop... whatever this is for her, I need to stop it here and now.

"She is not from here, she can't possibly have a lot of information about them, there is no need for her to participate in this meeting, besides she seems..." My eyes trailed over her body with appreciation masked as disgust "...Occupied"

"On the contrary, these fae originally were causing trouble in her homelands and have stowed away here, she is more knowledgeable on this adversary than anyone we know." Rhysand interjected. I wanted to point out something else, something that would keep her away from this table and more importantly, away from me, but nothing came to mind, so I just tersely nodded my head, accepting her involvement.

"Alright, just give me a moment" The female got up off the couch, making her way to what he assumed was her guest bedroom limping a little. "Is she seriously postponing a meeting with two high lords and a High lady to primp?"

"You have no space to argue about primping, Eris" I knew that, and really, I was glad she was taking the time to get herself ready, unlike the brute who just sat down radiating heat like a second, very unwanted sun smelling of sweat and picking at some of the food laid out.

It isn't long before she returns with her hair down, still wet from the quick shower she took, her scent of caramel with a hint of pine invaded my nose and I couldn't help but notice how well it mixed with cinnamon and earth that I have. What is wrong with me?

Her hair swayed with her movements, blowing a more potent dose of her scent toward me, Y/n sat down beside me and started speaking about the contraband the fae were smuggling. I listened to every word but it went in one ear and out the other, all while I stared at her with intense focus. Before I knew it, everyone was looking at me, expecting some kind of input.

"Why are they in my lands?" I really hope that she hadn't already answered that. "I suspect it is because of the new power shift, there is always a certain acclimation time where mistakes are more easily made, therefore easier for them to work in, the fact that it is a straight line from Elethairia to Autumn is just a nice little convenience for them."

How dare they? How dare they think that just because I am in charge now, they could slip by undetected, I am not weak, and nothing happens in my court without me knowing. "I'd like access to your lands so I can track them down" Her voice broke through my rage, effectively gaining my attention.

"And how would this arrangement work?" Her eyes fixed on mine "I would go to Autumn from morning till evening, then return here until the job is done" I had no idea where my next words came from, they had not received approval from my brain before they were said, laid out for everyone to gawk at. "That's ridiculous, you'll stay in Autumn, track them down and then I shall assist in getting them back to Elethairia" I was seconds away from saying something truly stupid like getting you back to Elethairia, but luckily he wasn't that far gone.

I should have just agreed with the original proposal, that was what I was planning on, but my mouth had other plans, and I couldn't take my offer off the table now, otherwise I'd look like an indecisive buffoon. Instead, I said this:

"I shall await your answer" I then got up, thanked Rhysand and Feyre and winnowed back to Autumn, though a part of me longed to bring her with.

Only so she could get to work sooner and rid my lands of these weapon smugglers. No other reason. None. She would catch them, I'd get her back to her home and these frivolous feelings would end. I would continue to rule Autumn, she would do whatever she does, and our paths would never cross again. That is what I want.

Then why did the thought hurt so bad?

Tag list: @imma-too-many-fandoms @rcarbo1

Chapter 6

A/n: Hope you enjoyed, again, my sincerest apologies about the wait

[punkeccentricenigma]

headcanons with the rise boys and a reader who is in med school! Graduated high school early and is training to be a doctor! Romantic or platonic, your pick

Rise!Boys with Reader who is in Med School

Relationship status: platonic

Reader prounouns: They/Them

TW: Mention of slicing the frog, Some grammatical errors because english is not my first language.

Author's note: Just so you know, I am not familiar with medicine at the college level, only what I had in high school biology, so I tried to write these headcanons as neutrally as possible. And all in all, even if I learn anything now, it is only in the field of physiotherapy because my friend is going to such studies this year, so sorry if it's not what you wanted, but still, enjoy!

Leonardo

◇I won't lie, I'm sure this guy admires you.

◇Not everyone gets a chance to get into such a school!

◇But knowing his personality, he'll probably tease you a lot, calling you a 'nerd.'

◇It usually doesn't cross the line, BUT if Leonardo goes too far with his teasing, especially when you're tired after classes, you often threaten to perform a dissection on him like a frog.

◇And when he arrogantly waved it off at first, you and Donnie pulled a prank on him with that theme.

◇Everything was recorded as he lay pinned to the table, and you stood over him with a scalpel.

◇Leo thinks you're very diligent, hardworking, and disciplined, which also means mentally exhausted.

◇Such a school demands a lot, so expect that during study sessions in your cozy home, that idiotic turtle will come and drag you to the hidden city to relax.

◇I'm sure he'll try to make you laugh often using elaborate medical jokes he found on the internet.

◇Sometimes he also feels a bit jealous. He has some basic knowledge when he has to patch himself or his brothers up, but deep down, he would also like to go to such a medical school to enhance his skills. But you see the whole situation.

◇But don't worry! In your free time, you'll give him a bit of education with the knowledge you've acquired so far.

◇Even if he tries to hide it, he's a bit overwhelmed by the vast amount of knowledge and skills you possess.

◇But despite that, he's proud of you for taking on the challenge and fulfilling your dreams! Or at least you're on the right path to doing so.

Raphael

◇The proudest big bro! You got into that school?? Amazing!

◇Your number one supporter!

◇Raphael truly appreciates your intelligence, hard work, and determination. He never imagined himself getting into a medical school, not only because of the whole situation but also because his knowledge absolutely doesn't go in the same direction as yours. But that his friend managed it? Nice!

◇He admires your selfless need to help other people. He's keeping his green fingers crossed for you to achieve that dream medical title!

◇I'm sure he suggested some ‘experiments’ on himself for you to practice a topic from lectures. In the end, you hit him on the head for such an absurd idea. You didn't intend to do that! That's Donatello's role! Besides, mixed human DNA with turtle DNA would probably mess with your mind more than help.

◇Although their biology sometimes interested you.

◇When he notices you're tired and stressed from all the medical material, he'll gladly take you to their living room, and under a warm blanket, you'll have a Lou Jitsu movie marathon (where you'll eventually fall asleep, lmao) or play a bandana takeover with his brothers, all tricks allowed for your amusement!

◇Hey, don't complain about his support. Many times, you've helped him when he was stressed about being the leader before Leo or after the Kraang invasion. That's all he can do!

◇Sometimes he was confused and a bit unhappy when you started explaining various medical terms or tools to him. Raph is simple; give him a lighter version of all that.

◇Sometimes he wasn't happy that you declined meetings because of studying or lectures. Hey! He also needs attention sometimes D:

Donatello

◇Donnie is really proud of you, even if he doesn't express it in words every day.

◇But as a reward for your hard work, he'll fine-tune the devices you use for practice or build something helpful.

◇He appreciates your genuine interest in understanding difficult concepts and your ability for critical thinking. You don't even know how much he needed someone like you in his life, looking at his family.

◇Despite your enthusiasm and intelligence, he thinks you might overly stress about grades and perfectionism, which in the long run can lead to stress and burnout. So, he often forces you to take a break in his lab, sipping mint-flavored coffee.

◇It's also his small revenge for taking him away from his work on new inventions when he hasn't slept for two days in a row, lmao.

◇But if it's not spending time with him, the guy will go through all your material at the moment to make cheat sheets with the most important information.

◇You pose an intellectual challenge for him and keep him on his toes, but he always enjoys discussing and exploring different perspectives on a topic with you, even though he leans more towards technological knowledge than biological.

◇However, despite his intelligence, Donnie in those moments can be a bit 'know-it-all' and doesn't always consider the opinions or feelings of other people, or even the actual facts.

Michelangelo

◇You won't convince me he wouldn't be initially confused; I mean, he's the least interested in medical topics.

◇But as soon as you start explaining, he'll immediately admit that he's impressed and that he's really proud of you!

◇He'll always mention how much he appreciates your determination to achieve your dreams!

◇Personally, I have a headcanon that Mikey wants to become one of the most recognizable artists, so he roughly knows how frustrating it is when something doesn't work out.

◇In a way, I think Mikey sees you as his role model, so feel proud to be compared to Lou Jitsu :D

◇Mikey sometimes worries a lot about your mental health after lectures. So, expect many long conversations about self-care.

◇Being the youngest of the brothers, he got a lot of attention, so he'll often be jealous of how much time you spend at school and with human friends rather than with him. He knows it's immature behavior, but he can't help it!

[marzmeltdown]

Honey Whiskey

⌦ Pairing: Han Jisung x Reader ⌦ Word Count: 1.96k

⌦ Genre: Smut (MDI) ⌦ Warning(s): Use of alcohol, drunken sex (both consensual, please drink responsibly), use of pet names(darling, baby, doll) fingering, mc has a vagine but other than that they're gender fluid, oral (f receiving), sex against the wall,, kinda, its against a door, pining, slight choking, again, kinda, unprotected sex (be safe pls), Jisung finishes inside(but it's implied that mc is safe from harboring any passengers inside their body), walk of shame. ⌦ Summary: You go to a college party with your friend expecting to have anything but a good time, until you meet man who turns your dreaded night into something to be remembered. ⌦ A/N: This fic is loosely based off of Honey Whiskey by Nothing But Thieves, and by loosely I just mean the title. It has also been a very long time since I've written fanfiction, let alone smut, so bare with me. With that being said, if you have any suggestions, please feel free to send them my way :)

If you had to choose between sitting through a chemistry exam without having studied any of the material or going to a party with your best friend Yeji, you would have chosen the former of the two. Regardless of your unwavering dislike for the party scene, your best friend successfully dragged you to your university's end-of-year party. The scent of cheap alcohol, sweat, and throw-up mixed together to make a nose-curling smell that seemed to linger no matter what end of the frat house you stood at.

"Y/N! Come on and dance with me!" Yeji whined as she tugged on your left arm, your right holding onto the red Solo cup with some kind of beer that you had been nursing all night.

"Yeji, you know I don't like to dance," you whined back, not moving from your spot in the corner. At this point, you were sure you had grown roots where you stood; you'd been there so long. After what felt like forever, though it was only two minutes, you looked at Yeji's glossed-over puppy-dog eyes and sighed. Your best friend had such a talent for getting her way. "Fine, let me just set this down somewhere…"

"Why don't you just chug it?" Yeji asked, her hands still holding onto your left while she looked at the cup that was only a quarter of the way full.

You looked at the yellow, carbonated drink in your hand and then back at your friend, a look of disgust making its way to your face as you pondered drinking the rest of the beer. You'd been tipsy already, Yeji having successfully filled your stomach with liquid that could only be described as fruit-flavored rubbing alcohol.

Sighing, you lifted the red plastic cup to your lips as you took a deep breath through your nose, either for confidence or to prevent yourself from gagging; you weren't sure. You looked at your best friend one last time before letting your jaw open, inviting the beer into your mouth.

It didn't take long for you to finish the cup, setting it on a random surface before joining your friend in the sea of sweat and glitter-covered college-aged adults. To say you weren't enjoying yourself at least a little bit would be a lie. Once you and Yeji began dancing together, it felt nice to let loose a little, even if you were out of your element.

You jump ever so slightly when a hand places itself on the small of your waist, and the body to which the hand belonged swayed to the music alongside you. You turn your head ever so slightly, seeing that the mysterious hand and body belong to one of the cutest boys you have ever had the pleasure to dance with. Han Jisung.

If Jisung had gripped at your waist with that much fervor any other day, you would have harshly pushed him away before ranting to Yeji and Tzuyu about how college men are disgusting and cannot keep their hands to themselves. But today wasn't like any other day; today you were a completely different person in a completely different situation, and the look of approval along with the two thumbs up given to you by your friend reassured that you were indeed having a good time.

Had someone told you that you would be sleeping with Han Jisung at some party, a more popular person at your university. Or as popular as one can be in college. You would have told them that they were stupid before rolling your eyes to hide the blush your cheeks would have contained in that moment.

Jisung didn't waste any time as he dragged you to an empty bedroom at the end of the hallway. Your back was pressed against the door as Jisung's hands hungrily roamed along your body. His lips connected themselves to your own, pulling a small moan from your throat when his teeth pulled against your bottom lip.

He smirked as your small mewl of pleasure reached his ears, and your stomach tensed as his hands moved themselves from your waist and to the hem of your shirt. "May I?" He asked against your lips, pausing his movements all together until you gave him the okay to continue.

You nodded, allowing your hands to wrap themselves around his neck, pulling him closer—if that were even possible—as your hands found their way into his black locks.

"Please..."

With a whisper of approval coming from your lips, Jisung lifted your shirt up and over your head, tossing it to an unknown location in the room. The male you held tightly in your grip ripped his own shirt off, tossing it to the floor alongside your own shirt as he leaned into your neck, biting and sucking at the sensitive flesh.

Jisung's hands found their way to your nipples, taking the hardening buds in between his pointer and thumb, rolling and tugging gently at the beads. You couldn't help but let out another whine when from the stimulation your nipples were receiving, gasping once more when Jisung moved his thigh in between your own.

Almost instinctively, you began rolling your hips along his clothed thigh, more whines and whimpers falling from your mouth as your swollen clit rubbed against the seam of your jeans with every thrust of your hips against his thigh. Your hands dug themselves deeper into Jisung's hair, tugging ever so gently, earning you a groan from your partner in response.

You felt Jisung's hands reach down to unbutton your pants, pulling down the denim fabric, and you stepped out of the pants that lied around your ankles, kicking them to join the two shirts that had been discarded earlier. Jisung reached to grope your chest once more as he kissed his way to your soiled panties.

A smirk found its way to the other's lips as he came face to face with the heat that was growing hotter the longer he teased. You couldn't help the blush of embarrassment or how your hands instinctively hid the new shade of red your face had adorned. Jisung noticed your embarrassment, his hands trailing up the thigh he had placed on his shoulder only a few moments ago, in an attempt to ease your nerves. His lips followed the trail his hands led, leaving small kisses along the way.

"Jisung, please..."

You weren't sure what you were begging for, but the chuckle that left your partners lips made you certain that you wanted him to touch you.

"Please what, darling?" Jisung asked against your thigh, his trail of kisses stopping right at the hem of your panties. He looked at you, as if he were waiting for consent once more, though this time he was waiting for you to elaborate on your plead.

"Please touch me," you whined. Your whining seemed to flip a switch inside of Jisung's head as his hands pulled your panties off your body whilst his mouth latched itself to the swollen bead of nerves that had been longing for attention. His mouth wasted no time sucking your clit against his lips, every few seconds he would dip lower and lick against your entrance with the hunger of a man who'd been deprived a nutritious meal for far too long.

Your hands flew to latch themselves against his hair, tugging on it each time Jisungs tongue dipped into the caves of your opening. He groaned at your taste, slipping a finger into your hole as his tongue focused on your clit as he pumped his finger in and out of your hole.

The stimulation from Jisung's fingers and tongue caused your back to arch against the door you had been pinned against from the moment it was shut and locked. Your hole clenched around his fingers as your slick ran down your thighs, you tugged at Jisung's hair once more as the coil inside your stomach began to tighten.

"Jisung.. Fuck me! Fuck me, please!" You begged, pulling the man up by his hair so you could kiss him. Jisung grunted against your lips, and watching you taste yourself on his tongue made his painfully hard cock twitch inside his pants.

"So impatient," Jisung teased against your lips. Using the speed of a madman and the strength of a thousand men, he threw his pants down, hoisted you up, and wrapped your legs around his waist. You whined in response, gripping the flesh of his back as you felt Jisung inch his way into your entrance.

When he bottomed out, he waited for you to adjust, and only when you nodded your head did he start thrusting his hips up into your own. Your moans sounded like music to the man's ears, one hand gripping at the fat of your thigh while the other held your chin in place, turning your head to the side so he could mark your neck up with bite marks.

As Jisung's thrusts turned into rough pounding, hitting that sweet spot inside of your spongy walls, you threw your hand up to your mouth, covering the unholy noises coming from your mouth. You were snapped out of your trance as your hand found itself pinned to the door behind you.

"I wanna hear you, baby."

Jisung whispered into your ear, the hot air sending shivers up your spine as Jisung intertwined his fingers with your own. The noises that were coming from your mouth would make a nun blush, and the words you spoke would prevent you from looking anyone in the eyes in a normal setting.

"F-Fuck! Jisung, right there! Please!" You whined, feeling your hole flutter and clench around Jisung's cock, the cord that had once been left to dissipate now binding itself up in your stomach again. Your legs began to shake from the pounding you were receiving from Jisung.

"Fuck, keep doing that, and I'm not going to last much longer," Jisung grunted into your ear. The way his thrusts began to falter and his cock twitched inside your walls, you could tell he was just as close as you were.

"I'm close!" you mewled, using your free hand to manoeuvre the man's face to your own in attempts to kiss him once more. The action couldn't be considered a kiss in a literal sense, however, not with the amount of teeth and nose clashings you two had shared.

"Cum on my cock, doll," Jisung whispered against your lips. Those words were enough to send you over the edge, a wanton moan leaving your lungs as you came. Your finish running its course down Jisung's cock finally pushed him over the edge. He thrusted three more times before he came, riding out his high while simultaneously fucking his cum back into you.

Once he slowed his thrusts to a halt, he stood there for a second, the both of you panting as though you had just run a marathon. You slumped yourself against Jisung's shoulder as he pulled out, letting your legs fall to the floor again. It felt odd, holding onto Jisung like that, but it was a nice feeling. As soon as you gathered your strength, you pulled away from him, trying desperately to locate your clothing.

"Y/N! I was worried; you were gone for so long!" Yeji gasped, hugging you tightly as you shamefully walked down the steps to the party that seemed to have only gotten bigger since you and Jisung had enjoyed each other's company. You blushed heavily, looking up at the man who'd taken you from your best friend long enough for her to worry. Either Yeji was too shitfaced to notice the purple marks that littered your neck or she was saving you the embarrassment; either way, you were relieved that she didn't say anything.

[isaaaxqii]

cheer up ⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ - geto

part 2 of the series - saving both me and you <3

summary : being a jujutsu sorcerer brought much attention to an individual. just as you found out that your ex used your title as a jujutsu sorcerer to become popular and cheats on you, geto was there by your side to comfort you, but most importantly, its because he loves you.

'' : fluff, can be read as a standalone

note : hii i know i said a day or 2 after posting part 1` but i was so busy and had to take some time to myself,, also part 1 wasn't doing well so i didn't know whether i should discontinue it but i felt a little bad if i dropped it being my first series that i made, so ill just finish it <3

< 2..55pm >

it was the afternoon after finishing another mission with geto, and the both of you were walking back to jujutsu high, hands cold from the milkshakes you both bought as a post-mission celebration.

it was 2 months after the break up with your ex, and although you missed him time to time, you had honestly never been better with geto by your side. he would take care of you, and stay by your side whenever you were having a breakdown, and you appreciated him for that. however, if you said that geto's actions didn't make you fall in love with him just the slightest bit, you would be lying.

"gojo, i have to ask you something."

geto sat himself across the chair which gojo was sitting on, playing a game on his phone.

"yeah, what is it?"

geto took a deep breath in, forming his words in his head before speaking.

"i like this girl, and i don't know what to do to make her like me."

gojo felt like geto had just dropped a bombshell on him. he stood up from his chair quickly, slamming his hands on the table, body leaning towards geto while he exclaimed,

"YOU LIKE A GIRL?? who's the mystery girl?? what do you need help with?? tell me tell me!"

with geto already knowing gojo's childishness to these situations, he had already expected the response. geto shushed him and told gojo to sit back down, in which he obeys obediently.

"i know i can trust you not to tell anyone when i say its y/n. i know she recently gone through a breakup, but she has improved a lot, and i hope that this can be my time to make a move. "

gojo listens attentively, nodding at everything geto said.

"well, isn't valentines day coming up soon? why not take her on a date then and confess?" gojo suggested, "give her a bouquet of chocolates ! i'm sure she'll love it."

geto shakes his head. although gojo's idea wasn't a bad one, he wasn't sure whether you liked him back, and wanted to know you more before he confessed.

" i can't just confess without doing anything to make her fall in love with me. your idea wasn't bad, but i just want to know her and make her like me before i confess." geto replied, his expressions showing an obvious thinking state.

"then...um... just help her in whatever she's doing! take her out on small hangouts, treat her to a few snacks, and make her feel loved !"

little did geto know....

you were hiding behind just one thin wall from them, heart fluttering upon hearing geto's confession and plans to make you fall in love with him.

what geto said was true. for the next few days leading up to valentines day, he had showered you with gifts and treats just like how he promised. you wanted to repay him somehow, but he always refused. you fell in love with him more and more, and you could see him fall harder too. he was your safe space, and you never wanted to leave him.

"y/n, are you free tomorrow?" geto asked, trying to hide his faint blush.

tomorrow was valentines day, and saying that you were excited was an understatement. you were more than excited, finally able to call him yours, and going on many dates with him. however, you had to hide your excitement until tomorrow, and replied casually,

"yeah, wanna hangout?"

--

you and geto sat at the balcony of a beautiful cafe, with many pants and flowers surrounding both of you.

"wow he has taste." you thought.

the both you were having a great time, and talked about everything. from missions, to past hangouts, to social lives. you didn't want to spend your time with anyone other than him, and hoped that he could stay by your side forever.

the both of you sat in a comforting silence for awhile, sipping your coffees and enjoying the view from the cafe's balcony. a while more, and geto broke the silence.

"these are for you. happy valentines day." geto pulled out a bouquet full of flowers and chocolates, just like how gojo suggested him to do so. his heart was beating fast from nervousness, and you could see his ears becoming red.

"you didn't have to ! you had treated me to many gifts already, and appreciate them. thank you so much."

"there's one more thing...."

it was coming. geto sat up straight, calming himself down before speaking,

"i like you a lot, y/n. even when you were missing your ex, even when you were smiling happily as we treat ourselves after missions. i like you a lot, and no one could change that. can i... be your boyfriend?"

both of your hearts knew that they wanted each other. it was just waiting for your answer.

"even when i may be slightly dramatic during certain situations?"

"yes." he replied with no hesitations.

"even if i told you i knew about your feelings and how you planned this whole thing out with gojo?"

geto's eyes widened. so you knew? was his first thought.

"you knew? why didn't you ask me about it? we could've been together earlier...."

seeing his slightly pouting face, you couldn't help but laugh from how cute he was. you leaned foward across the table and kissed his cheek, leaving him stunned.

"my cute boyfriend."

idk how to feel about this i didn't proof read but i hope it's okay help

part 1 ( part 2 can be read as a standalone honestly )

[lunettes-a-ninny]

TW: mention of javert's suicide

follow up on me being sad about unrecognized les misérables music!!

i think a few people know about the song called javert by red diamond dragon club - but did you know there are MULTIPLE amazing songs called javert?!?!

before i start, i would like to state that these are all my interpretations of the songs, and the writers have not confirmed everything i say!!

1. javert - red diamond dragon club

this song is probably the most popular one among the fandom, but it's still unrecognized.

this song is almost an alternate version of javert's suicide. it is an indie(?) rock version that shows us javert's anger over being released through lines such as:

"valjean, what have you done to me?"

"did you know what you did when you set me free?"

"and you won't leave, trapped inside my mind. mon dieu, this devil is shaking the ground."

"won't you tell me why i'm not okay?"

"you make the night not follow day"

"and who am i? looking down, i see your face, the water rising up"

this song is not only catchy, but it is a good display of javert going through the five stages of grief, including anger.

2. javert - penny and sparrow

this is a short, pretty folk song about javert. while there are romantic undertones in this song, i interpret this as javert's internal feelings and that he isn't speaking of a specific person.

he could very well be, with lines such as, "when you hold me, it's knee jerk," but i would like to think this is just how javert feels trying to interact with people in general sometimes.

"i can feel the beginnings of arguments to often start off that way"

"well fuck how i feel, it's a bad gauge of realness"

"how can it be, is their room in your home for a man that feels to prone to fall through?"

"can you honestly expect me to confess that ... or i'm worth the work it takes?"

3. javert - deadman

this song is by far my favourite on this list, being number one on my spotify wrapped this year, so this will be a longer section of this post.

i'm not actually sure how to define the genre of this song. it could very well be a folk song or a country song.

this song is confirmed to be written about someone talking to the ghost of javert after he has committed suicide. it is a song that switches between both english and french (depending on the performance), and it is a truly beautiful piece of music through both lyrics, performance and instrumentals.

it is FILLED with references to javert's life, including christianity, water, blood, wine, as well as many metaphors about these things as well.

my favourite reference in the song is the one made about javert's actual death (keep in mind these lyrics vary in different performances):

put your gun on the floor

i'll pour you some wine

i am willing, but my spirit is not

this verse alone is simply amazing. the lyrics to this song are so well thought out and beautifully performed, and i really suggest listening to this song. and while javert didn't die to a gun, you can still understand what they're referencing. this could even be a previous attempt, before the seine.

the song is also a little mysterious, with this verse:

we used to be friends

when you used your old name

back when you worked for the law

they could honestly be talking about anything in this verse, and i like that it's up for interpretation.

the chorus is also incredibly well written with it's references to javert drowning:

and if ye strike the rock

then the water comes forth

water that used to be blood

formerly blood

and becomes blood again

and unstopped, rises to flood

however, suddenly at the last chorus, they change the word "blood" to "wine".

there are a few more songs titled "javert", however, i am unsure if they are actually about the les misérables javert or not, so i will not be including them.

anyway, go give these songs a listen if you haven't already! if you know any more songs about javert, please let me know! i recall hearing about one a long time ago, but it wasn't called "javert," so i can not find it.

[innerchorus]

Gurgin for the ask game, pick and choose whatever numbers you want! It's a free-for-all! :D

I probably am gonna ask you about Shapur, Isfan, and Kubard later too because of course I am

I said I wanted to answer every question for him and I wasn't lying. Thank you for enabling me! (Ask game post is here, for anyone else who wants to send something in / reblog it themselves. I have a few others to answer already which I'll get too asap now this post is done, but feel free to send in more!).

My first impression of them

Just one of a handful of evil masked guys. Best mask design by a long way, though.

2. When I think I truly started to like them (or dislike them, if you've sent me a character I don't like)

I first got curious about him when I read about his backstory and found out about his shared past with Farangis. Honestly I'm not quite sure how I got to the point where I love him as fiercely as I do now, but I know I started shipping him with Zandeh after seeing art by @strangeshipper and it built from there. I don't know. I just find him really interesting.

3. A song that reminds me of them

I know I've mentioned You Are The Blood by Sufjan Stevens before, but also Don't Worry, We'll Be Watching You by Gotye (POV: you are being recruited by Team Zahhak).

4. How many people I ship them with

Always with Zandeh. OTP status for sure. I have considered other stuff (such as the Zandeh/Gurgin/Parizad OT3) though. And Hilmes/Gurgin in Mage Hunt AU. And if anyone wants to suggest other ships for him, I'm listening.

5. My favorite ship of them

Zandeh/Gurgin, obvious answer is obvious.

6. My least favorite ship of them

I don't know whether anyone actually ships it but Gurgin/the Master.

I won't lie, it's crossed my mind, but my headcanon is primarily that although the Master was once interested in stuff like that he's been alive for so long that he doesn't really have those sorts of urges any more (overlaps a bit with my thoughts on how the type of magic that Team Zahhak use might affect sexual desire, I don't think I've directly mentioned that before but the basic concept is that it can warp it from its baseline just as it warps their bodies, and results vary from person to person, but it's quite common for it to be either dulled or switched off completely and kind of goes hand in hand with the headcanon that their magic renders them sterile).

Gurgin in Sacrifice AU falls into that category, he doesn't completely lack interest but his focus is dominated by his work for Team Zahhak and by the time the AU picks up his story afterwards he's also underweight and depressed so his sex drive is basically 0. And then he meets Zandeh, and gets better, and realises what it's like to want someone so badly you can't think of anything else, lmao

(My headcanons for Gurgin vary a bit in this respect depending on the AU, though. There's probably an AU out there where his desire never returns or he never had any in the first place but even in that case I still see him and Zandeh as life partners and feel they'd work it out somehow.)

7. A quote of them that you remember

What he says when he's rallying his comrades at the end of Book 7 after their Master is (temporarily...) killed: "Let those who do not respect the Snake King Zahhak boast of their victory! Three years, just three years is enough. At that time, they will fall from the peak of joy to the bottom of the valley of despair. The higher they climb, the further they fall!"

It's primarily the last line that sticks in my mind. If I ever make the Gurgin playlist that I daydream about so often, I'd definitely title it 'The Further They Fall'. Anyway, that's actually the last line of dialogue from the final scene of Book 7 (the last book before the timeskip). A very ominous way for it to end, right?

8. Your favorite outfit of them

He has One Outfit. (He would've worn something different when he was a trainee priest, but there's no description of it. A manga flashback to that time feels much less likely now, but you never know, maybe Arakawa will decide to reveal a little of Farangis's backstory before the end… my one hope…)

9. Your least favorite outfit of them

One Outfit, and I love it so no complaints. But I wish Arakawa had planned to adapt the second half so I could see him getting drenched by the rain in Soleimaniye.

10. Describe the character in one sentence

My blorbo who did lots of things wrong.

11. What’s the first thing you think about when thinking about the character?

Huh, this question made me realise that in the mental picture of Gurgin that first pops up when I think of him, he's not wearing his mask. His hood is up, though, and he's in Team Zahhak black. Maybe it's because I've been thinking about the Magical Healing AU more recently, where his appearance is often like this.

12. Sexuality hc!

He doesn't waste much time thinking about it, but he's mainly into men. However, I do headcanon that he had a crush on Farangis when he was young.

13. Your favorite friendship they have

This question makes me sad because I don't see him as someone who's ever had many friends. I don't think his peers at the temple liked him that much (though honestly I think he probably felt quite indifferent about this). There were a handful of other trainees he spent time with, but his closest friends were probably his brother and Farangis. There's certainly no real evidence of friendship between any of the Team Zahhak disciples.

He deserves more than having one-sided conversations with winged apes! Was that mainly for exposition purposes in canon? Perhaps, but it's also a result of a lack of human contact — the novel makes it clear that the mages feel loneliness as their numbers dwindle, and at that point Gurgin is operating alone and hasn't heard from his remaining comrades for a while.

(He absolutely does talk to Hamkar from time to time in Sacrifice AU before Zandeh arrives on the scene, too.)

14. Best storyline they had

Is there anything about his canon trajectory that I really wanna label 'best' lmao? I mean, I wish things had turned out different for him but I do find his loss of faith / corruption arc interesting. Though that's because I also love to think about a future for him where that all gets reversed.

15. Worst storyline they had

His involvement with what went down in Oxus, probably. Oof.

16. A childhood headcanon

You know, I haven't spent much time thinking about what his childhood was like (aside from Mage Hunt AU specifics that differ from whatever a general /baseline headcanon would be). I guess the only thing I feel certain of is that he and his brother had no other siblings, and whatever region they grew up in didn't have much to offer in terms of creating a better life for themselves, and that's why they ended up at the Temple of Mithra in Khuzestan. (Tentative headcanon is that he grew up in / near the Nimruz mountains.)

Aghriras entered the priesthood because of ambition, and that reasoning makes sense for Gurgin, too (they're azat, freeborn commoners aka the lowest social class above slaves, and if they want to climb above the few opportunities that affords to them then it's either joining the priesthood or proving their merit on the battlefield) but I do think that to a certain extent Gurgin followed his brother.

lmao I can feel a backstory headcanon forming even as I type this.. like, what if their father died or left them when they were young (Gurgin probably doesn't remember him much) and they were raised by their mother, who wanted them to have a better life than she had? She wouldn't have wanted them to face the horrors of war, so she encouraged them to work hard on their education so that they could find their place in the priesthood. Perhaps she, too, had passed away by the time they left for the temple, so at that point they only had each other. I feel like Gurgin didn't have any close family after his brother died.

Oh no Gurgin, are you desperate for recognition from your Master because you never had a father figure? Fuck.

17. What do you think their first word was?

Eh, probably some variation of 'brother' or 'mother' (with the headcanon above). I feel like most first words are… not that interesting.

18. How do you think they were as a kid? (Like, were they shy, noisy, wild, etc)

Curious and intelligent! Asked a lot of questions. Easily frustrated when things didn't go his way. I imagine at school he had trouble making friends as he both sought approval from his teachers and thought himself superior to others who were not as clever as him, plus he could be impatient with others. (He was, in general, a bit better about all of this at the time he joined the priesthood, but when he's with Team Zahhak all those negative traits are brought to the fore.)

19. The most random ship you've seen people have with them

Well, I'm not sure this really counts but sometimes I'll ask my boyfriend really weird ArSen questions out of the blue, and recently I asked him "give me a Gurgin ship" and usually when it's something like that he'll try and pick something at random that he thinks I won't like… He said Gurgin/Farangis.

(No, he didn't remember that they knew each other. And I can't think of a way this would work but it sure gave me a whirlwind of feelings to think about. The thought of something happening between them because of shared grief, years after they last saw each other? It's so angsty and messy. If something did happen I think Gurgin would feel immensely guilty for it, but I'm not sure about Farangis. I feel like she might be able to compartmentalise it as something that happened that shouldn't have done, and move on. She'd handle it better than Gurgin, at any rate.)

Wait, my Hilmes/Gurgin ship is pretty random I suppose? Think of that as an alternate answer. Zandeh/Gurgin probably qualifies too given that they don't ever meet in canon, but I can't see it that way now, not after spending so much time thinking about them together.

I've also had very vague thoughts of yeeting Gurgin back into the past, but would I ship him with anyone in that circumstance? Eh, not sure.

20. A weird headcanon

I'm sure I have many! The 'he likes hot baths' headcanon is a pretty random one that came from 1. reading that the real Mount Damavand has some pretty nice hot springs near it (which in ArSen verse are probably disgusting bubbling sulphurous poison mud pits but whatever), and 2. the fact that he probably had a bad time during the flooding of the Dark Temple and it amuses me to imagine him enjoying water in a different context? I just want to let him relax from time to time? He works hard, he deserves it.

I want to write a bath scene for him in Interlude (Magical Healing AU). Or I keep thinking about a comedy scene of him at one of Ecbatana's bath houses with a gaggle of bird-faced beasts for company, because it amuses me.

Here's another headcanon: he's pretty bad at archery. It was taught at the temple, but it didn't interest him much and he wasn't that motivated to work on his skills, even though Farangis tried to instruct him. As far as weapons go, later on he uses a Team Zahhak-typical knife, which he wears strapped to a thigh like Farangis. (He still has it in Sacrifice AU! Chekhov's Snake Knife lmao.)

21. When do you think they were at their happiest?

When he was at the temple with Farangis and his brother, before things went wrong. Other than that, he was pretty fucking ecstatic in Book 16 when the Master said that he would be his successor (disregarding the fact that it's because there is literally nobody else left at that point lmao). I'm not sure I believe the Master was ever planning on stepping aside, but whatever.

22. When do you think they were at their lowest?

After his brother's death.

23. Future headcanon

The whole of Sacrifice AU, I guess. Just anything where he makes it out of Team Zahhak and tries to lead a different life.

24. What do you think is a secret they have that they never told anyone?

I love this question. I wouldn't necessarily know the answer for every character but I do have a headcanon for this for Gurgin, and that is that no matter how vehemently he protested his brother's innocence, a small part of him wondered whether Aghriras really had done it. I don't think he'd ever admit that to anyone (except perhaps to Zandeh in Mage Hunt AU, where Gurgin's backstory adjustment gives him very good reason to hope that Aghriras had killed that particular person). The fact that Aghriras's innocence was later proven only makes it much worse.

25. When do you think they acted the most ooc

I don't think any of his canon scenes are OOC? Is that what this question is asking? I may not like what he does, but none of it feels unbelievable.

26. When do you think they were being "themselves" the most?

Maybe I'm picking this just because it's before he went down a dark path, but I think the conversations he used to have with his brother back when they were at the temple are pretty typical of his true self. The little flashback conversation we get in particular gives the impression of someone who's curious about stuff he maybe shouldn't be, and is attracted to power, but it also shows that he was willing to listen to his brother's guidance. I don't think he'd have ended up with Team Zahhak if his brother had lived.

Otherwise, his Book 16 decisions that get him killed are unfortunately also peak Gurgin, at least in his Team Zahhak era.

27. If they could meet a character from another show/movie/etc, who would be the most fun for them to meet?

Either (or both) of the Devil Forgemasters from Castlevania, 100%.

28. The most unnecessary thing they ever did?

Killing the dog at the temple. Or lashing out and cutting off the hind legs of a winged ape (a creature that is on his side, and under his command!) when his plans started to go wrong in Book 13.

29. How do you think they would be as a parent? (and if they are a parent, how do you think they would be if they weren't?)

Honestly, not great but not as bad as he might think. But it's not something he wants. Thoughts of having a family aren't really on his mind (except for AU instances where he's worried it's something Zandeh might want that he won't be able to provide).

30. The funniest scene they had?

Okay, Gurgin's not actually present in this scene but it's hilarious to me so I'm choosing it: after the winged ape attack on Soleimaniye in Book 13 was thwarted, Kubard and Narsus are discussing what happened. They don't know that Gurgin was the one in charge, but Narsus's opinion is that it couldn't have been Ilterish (the usual commander of the demon army) because Ilterish would've done a better job, lmao. Sorry Gurgin but your inexperience is showing.

Anyway, that's the end of the questions! Not sure how many people are interested enough in Gurgin to make it this far, but like... if anyone does want to talk about Gurgin with me... my inbox is always open...

[tripstitan]

An Author's Rambling

I'm not really sure how to do this social media'ing thing. I don't use this site, or really have any desire to do so, so I feel like some hack making self-advertisements with the help of guides and AI and stuff, just throwing them into the wind where they'll be seen by no-one, because I don't have a follower base that would reblog them. It might seem self-defeatist to not want to really do the social media thing, but I'm asocial, a hermit, content to not interact with other humans for the most part, plenty neurodivergent. I guess this ramble is also me technically coming out in public pretty widely. Yeah, like Reggie, the narrator/main protag in my webnovel series, I'm an aro-ace with neurodivergencies up the wazoo, disabled in a few ways.

What am I hoping to accomplish? Just to get "An Age of Mysterious Memories" out there to people that need it, that need to be seen, to feel represented. But, like I said, posting here feels like throwing fliers into the wind, hoping that they'll land somewhere that someone picks it up and goes, "Huh, neat, maybe I'll check that out someday when I'm bored or depressed."

I'm actually surprised that a couple of my posts have been seen by at least one person that wasn't on my follower list, which, hey, shoutout to you new fam.

This social media stuff really burns me out and detracts from my writing, but between this, and some pretty-expensive google advertising, I don't know how else to offer up my story to the world.

I don't even care about "conversions" or conversion to click ratio or whatever. I have 0 patrons on Patreon, and that's fine. I've been skating by in life on the thin ice of every new day (Thank you Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson, heh.)

I guess maybe I should ask how I should even do this. Should I get more personal? Post more ramblings, with popular tags, and just hope that those bring traffic, and then hope that that traffic sees that I have a free webnovel up?

A lot of the guides suggest quantity, and a regular posting schedule for this social media stuff that's way too hard for me to keep up without burning out, because I have chapters going up every day or every other day, basically, nonstop. In the approximately two years since i started getting serious with my webnovel series, I've averaged at least a chapter every other day. Some days I write ten to twenty chapters, maybe a few days in a row, then I don't write anything for a month or two, because titling them, posting them, advertising them, burns me out. I could keep writing, forever and ever, even if that means writing chapters I can't post yet (I have so many chapters written for the next volume in my series that it's not even funny.) Or I could write side-projects, or fanfic I guess. I took my first foray into that a while back, and I kind of want to do a reread on my fanfic and plot out a conclusion to it, instead of leaving it hanging like it is. But fanfic isn't my baby, it's not what I want to get seen.

What I want seen is AAoMM, because it's... it's the representation, it's me putting myself out there, my internals, my neurodivergencies into a narrator, my Q status in the lgbtqia, having intrusive thoughts and not acting on them, and just so much more, that I know other people identify with, and honestly need. The representation matters, and I just want to provide that, because I know people who have been, or are hurting, or struggling, or are just in a funk, or depressed, or bored, or any number of things, that share so many of the traits that Reggie carries, that I carry. Several of my readers have said that it feels like the thoughts that are expressed are them in the situations Reggie is in. I don't think I've seen another adventure novel series where we get stream-of-consciousness moment-to-moment inner narration of a neurodivergent narrator that falls into the lgbtq community.

What a niche, right? Except... it's not. We're all having our own inner adventures. We all do have a stream of consciousness, whether we acknowledge it or not, and there are *Tons* of people out there who are neurodivergent in the lgbtqia community. Hell, at this point in Earth's history, I'd be surprised if anyone has survived unscathed without any neurodivergencies, trauma, or panic. We went through a global epidemic, a pandemic. That must have been rough on you peeps out there that actually leave your homes and do stuff with other humans. My sympathy to you guys. I'm a hermit, my life got a little bit easier, because things started allowing web-based doctor's visits, and delivery of groceries, and other stuff to help with social distancing. I'm rambling, but I just want to give AAoMM to everyone who needs it.

I want to nerd out about my webnovel series with people, and answer questions ranging from silly, to heart-wrenching. Why? Because I am in a good place, I've gotten somewhere in life that I feel content, despite all my comorbid things, all the depression and trauma and anxiety and social-phobia and adhd and spectrum'ness and the struggle with identity, especially my AA agendered ace identity, that I've slid around on, and worried I'd invalidated myself over the years, and everything else I've got, gone through, carry around, or deal with. Reggie's narration is that--, that beacon of, no matter how hard things get, what slams your mind with intrusive thoughts, that there's hope, that there's warm, soft times, contented times, happy times, ecstatic times, somewhere along the tunnel that is life's journey. Also that you can slide around on the scale of your agenderness or aromanticness, or your sexuality, and that that's okay, that you still are who you feel you are, or say you are, no matter what others think, that there can be romances and fluff and all kinds of things that are exceptions to rules, whether those rules are imposed by others, or yourself.

It feels like I'd look like I was shilling or pandering though if I interjected all the tags though, for every chapter, because not every chapter does it really come up that Reggie(and most of the inner circle) is at least technically agendered, or that there are several LGB relationships for side characters, or--. Well, it is always pretty evident that Reggie's brain is neurodivergent, we hear every thought that Reggie ever thinks, including the intrusive ones, almost every thought anyway.

But I also sort of want to put AAoMM in front of non-ally neurotypicals who are ablebodied and cishet, and be like:

"God forbid you ever had to walk a mile in our shoes 'Cause then you really might know what it's like to sing the blues" (Thanks Everlast, for those lyrics.)

Not in a malicious way or anything. I don't want them to suffer, I don't want anyone to suffer. Plus, I'm sure they're going through their own things, just like everyone else. I just want to try to remind people to be empathetic to each other, to think for that brief moment, before interacting with another human being, that -they are another human being-. That they deserve to be treated equally to how they're interacting with the world around them, more or less. Everyone deserves human rights, and the dignity of being acknowledged as existing with their own struggles.

I got pretty soapboxy here I guess, probably best if I shut up now and just hit post. (Could you guess that I'm an author by the verbosity of this goofy-arse post that was just supposed to be me semi-ironically whining about social media on social media?)

[alexanderwesker]

for the ask game!– 💫💞🕯️(i'm referring to the fandom one here, since the candle emoji was on there twice)💌 ^^

💫what is your favorite kind of comment/feedback?

I wouldn't say I have a favourite type of comments as I enjoy them all, but it makes me really happy when people tell me what parts they liked of the story/chapter, share their theories or what they thought while reading some parts. And I really like analyses so feel free to write them to me, I'll always enjoy reading them ^D^

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💞what's the most important part of a story for you? the plot, the characters, the worldbuilding, the technical stuff (grammar etc), the figurative language

The characters, there can be no plot without defined characters that want or don't want something to happen. The world building is also important to show how and why the characters are how they are, the way their world shaped them other than the experience they went through.

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🕯️how do you think engaging with each other through tumblr, twitter, comments, kudos, creates healthy fandom experiences? How do you deal with that if you're not a social person/experience social anxiety?

I mean interacting with one another is what makes a fandom. As long as people are not attacking each other or trying to police what people can and can't create, I thing all interaction is good for a fandom. Though I would suggest to avoid discourses and if possible to block tags that are specifically 'Anti' your favourite characters, not to avoid critically thinking about them but because sometimes it just becomes frustrating to see how people misunderstand actions and stuff or twist a character's word in something it wasn't meant to be.

I'm not very of a people person, so I most time take my time to write answers or posting stuff, making sure to be satisfied with the thing even if it's not perfect before sharing it with everyone. But each person has their way to deal with it so I can't really give a answer all for it ^^"

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💌share something with us about an up-and-coming work (WIP) that has you excited!

I'm very excited about the tHAW sister fic about Thes' time with Philza and Wilbur. Won't say much cause I don't want to spoiler but I will share the title: Theseus' Home (In Lieu of a Ship).

Which I'm very excited about cause I love writing more psychological stuff and this is going to be very much that, think That Boy of Misery but with CC!Tommy dealing with it instead of post-exile c!Tommy.

I hope you guys will like it ^^

Hope you liked the answers, thank you for the ask and sorry for taking so long answering it, I hat the answers in my drafts and forgot to post it ^^" I'm very sorry about that .

[aesthetic-bastard]

Media Interaction 2022

Part 7: July

Dick Fight Island - I'm not too big into Yaoi, and even if there is fan-made content of my favorite gay pairings, I don't actively seek it out. I'm sure we have all taken a trip to our local Barnes & Nobles and walked passed that one book in the manga section proudly displayed out in the open that immediately caught our attention with its bright yellow bold letters spelling out "Dick Fight Island"

Yes, that is the tile of this manga that I have read through with my own eyes. This is one of the only times I have read anything classified as erotica because this manga is bizarrely explicit. Like the title suggests, every 4 years 8 men from 8 different islands compete in a battle royal suited in scantly clad armor and fight against each other using their armored genitals as blunt objects. Whichever contestant comes out on top is crowned the new king of all the islands but whoever cums first during each match loses. Dick Fight Island is a very short read considering it's only 2 volumes and I greatly enjoyed it. I think it's empowering that something so bizarre and erotic is written and illustrated by a woman. I liked that this manga didn't only just have a cast of conventionally attractive homosexual men each catered to a specific arc type but there were also lesbian characters present in the story. I loved that this manga hit all bases when creating a story involving LGBT characters and wasn't just another erotic manga tailored specifically to fujoshi's.

Golden Kamuy (anime) - After reading through the manga I immediately jumped into watching the anime adaptation of Golden Kamuy and wanted to quickly catch up since I knew my favorite character would be introduced in season 4 coming up in October. I didn't have extremely high expectations for the anime and I could certainly say it's not the greatest adaptation but it's not the worst either. I would strongly suggest reading Golden Kamuy over watching it because this adaptation just can't do the justice this manga deserves, I can not even begin to understand the existence of Golden Kamuy anime onlys. There are probably a few scenes I enjoyed seeing animated but that was about it. The pacing of the first season is very inadequate and some of the chapters are either not adapted at all or they have their own separate OVA which makes it difficult for me to recall when certain events happened in the manga. Things don't start to pick up in the anime until season 3 which I find unfortunate because that's at least 24 episodes that you have to invest in before it gets better. At that point, I would just strongly advise reading the manga because I greatly enjoyed the early chapters in Golden Kamuy when I began to start reading it vigorously every day.

Panty and Stocking - When I heard that Panty and Stocking would be receiving its long-awaited second season I felt a deep sense of dread fill my body, that being said I took it upon myself to sit down and actually make my way through this anime from start to finish. I don't think I have ever sat through anything that gave me such intense secondhand embarrassment. I knew what I was getting into when I decided to force myself to watch this anime but I don't believe in brushing things off without fully examining them at least once. After watching my way through PSG, I strongly feel like I am the only person who has watched the source material. I refuse to believe the cult following for this anime is comprised of individuals that actually watched it. It makes my heart sink so deeply when a lot of animated media is heavily praised solely for its art and animation but is actually extremely lacking in other aspects such as writing, and character development or is just straight-up questionable. I feel like PSG gets a free pass for its awful offensive sexual humor because "the art style is cool" and I feel that's all people talk about when discussing their infatuation with this anime. I will admit I do like the art style of PSG but I feel like the "PSG art style" is more diverse than people make it out to be because there are actually really cool-looking designs and characters outside of the main 2 protagonists. I think another show that easily suffers this same problem is the Power Puff Girls where there is an obvious cast of diverse character designs but the perception of the "PPG art style" outside of the 3 main protagonists is non-existent. If I was to give some credit to PSG where it's due is that there is slight character development, yay! I am not a fan of Panty at all and her character makes me very uncomfortable but I did find some enjoyment in watching her get character development during the last arc of the first season. Even though both Panty and Stocking are dumb and rotten as hell it's clear Stocking is slightly more mature and seeing each of the sisters go through a brief period where they split up leaving Panty to do a lot of self-reflection, it's actually good? I would like to also add that PSG has a very good English dub and is probably one of the top English dubs I have heard when watching anime without subtitles. I don't think I will continue PSG if the second season ever comes out and I am certainly not ready for the culture war that will spawn from the second half of this anime when it finally drops but I was willing to give PSG a try since it is wildly popular.

Catherine Full Body - I think after playing a few games developed by Atlus I wanted to give Catherine Full Body a try. Unlike the previous games I have played by Atlus, Cathrine is a puzzle game and not an RPG. Catherine also includes a lot of elements similar to dating sims but I think I knew right away this game was more profound than that. At first, I deeply regretted buying this game at 50% off on the Nintendo Switch e-shop. I could not believe the horrible choices the protagonist made during the first part of the story. I'm easily made uncomfortable by gendered expectations in heterosexual relationships and Cathrine deals with this a lot but not in a way I would have ever expected. My feelings for this game immediately did a 180 when the character Rin was introduced into the story. I ended up appreciating this game an awful lot and think Cathrine has some of the best character development I've witnessed in media. There are a total of 13 endings in this game and so far I have played through and achieved one, which is Rin's true ending. Out of the 3 "Cathrines" you can pursue I went out of my way to begin a relationship with Rin. Apparently choosing Rin requires some amount of effort compared to Kathrine or Cathrine and I had no idea how careful you have to be when selecting dialogue options in order to begin her route because Rin's route felt so natural and effortless to me in this aspect. I feel like I had this unique experience while playing because my personal attraction is regardless of gender and I would have never guessed the biggest moment in Cathrine Full Body is when Rin is revealed to be a transgender woman. I feel that this aspect of Rin's character is so important and makes her probably the most optimal choice when pursuing a relationship with any of the characters. Out of the 3 women in Vincent's life that he has tragically wrapped himself up with, Rin is the most accepting of Vincent. Rin's open-minded nature has such a positive impact on Vincent's character development and growth as a person. I feel like there is a lot to be said about how the most accepting woman in Vincent's life that sees him for who he is regardless of his flaws, is in fact a trans woman. Rin's true ending is so meaningful to me and I think Vincent truthfully lives a happy life with her because their relationship isn't shaped by heteronormative expectations. Cathrine Full Body is so much more than just "the sex game" and has a very honest depiction of intimate relationships, commitment, and making the right choice all while some supernatural elements are mixed in.

[emerisketches]

3. The Star of Ionia

"She mirrored the once flowing fields of Ionia as it shone like emeralds, that star of Ionia up above and away from home. If we could see her once again, it'll finally put an end to the battlefield." - Grandmother Spirit of Ionia

- Emeri's Diary of Fascinating Observations-

Prologue: Wistful Youth

Humans are so fascinating, interesting, and scary at times and moments of their lives. I like this place called Ionia. It sounds like a fairytale. They have so many festivities to raise the spirits of their locals being under constant fire, which I like that ideal very much.

To become someone's happiness when life offers nothing but a rollercoaster of emotions.

I've always wanted to go to one of these festivals. I think one has captured my attention. Hanging star ornaments and lanterns across bustling stalls and ecstatic children making a wish for a once-in-a-lifetime witness of the "Star of Ionia", I'm not entirely sure if it was directed to me. I think they did give that title to me, what an honor, haha, because I started to hear all these rushing wishes come into my mind. Ah, I don't know if I can fulfill all of them by myself!

The Dream Shepherd came upon me one night and suggested that wishes are best resolved with two, rather than being solo. That makes sense! If I made a wish, if stars could dream, I think it would be to have a human companion. I could learn so much about humanity through their eyes. And plus, a new adventure than being stuck in the veil of the universe!

I decided to disguise myself as a human and travelled down to visit the "Star of Ionia" Festival or perhaps the Festival of Stars now. This was my first time as a human, so it was tough getting used to these slender, long legs. It was a struggle to get a hand at walking properly. And having this thumpity thump thump of a heart does make it heavy on my feet. Ah, how can I celebrate the festival in this condition?

That's when I heard the simplest, kindest question from another human of youthful age, "Are you okay?"

I looked up and saw her like a mirror to myself but not quite. It seems she has her own burdens hidden in those sad, violet eyes. Mine is more of a physical burden, but I don't think I should tell her I'm an actual star. Maybe later on. I assured her I was fine, I think, but she lifted me up to stand, leaning upon her shoulders.

I can feel the wiggling of my toes and wobbly sensation on my straight, pale legs. But it was ever so briefly. The moment she let go after helping me up, my stance faltered.

"I don't think you can go to the festival like that, " she assured me, "But you don't have to go alone."

Like a big sister, she took my hand and lifted me up on my feet, holding it tightly, so I won't fall. She was also going to go alone, but figured that it would be better to have someone else to enjoy festivals with, too.

As we traversed through the crowds and stalls, whiffing the delicious delicacies, she took upon herself to introduce herself with her name, "Darha". When she asked for mine, I wasn't quite sure.

Darha noticed that I had emerald-green eyes and played around with her thoughts to give me a name based on my eyes. And she called, "Emeri".

We visited every stall, tried out all the games (I won one of them! Caught the biggest toy fish and had a cool fortune.), wishes, and food. I enjoyed everything, especially with my newfound friend. Darha's eyes seemed brighter now, free of whatever burden ails her. I replicated my feelings the same way. I don't think I could ever want this to end. But just like the fairytale of soot and cinders, at the stroke of midnight, I told Darha the truth as we rest underneath the tree that faintly shimmered in golden starlight maple atop the hill a bit further from the festival. I don't think she was afraid of what true form I am.

We were children then, but I think when she gets older, I'll find her again. We promised to find each other again. Whatever burdens comes our way, we will never forget each other, forever on the wings of a butterfly.

[presidentstalkeyes]

A drabble (by my standards, anyway), based on my Braces!Wendy headcanon...

++++++++++++++++++++++++

Mystery Shack, May 2008

  “MR. PINES! YO, MR. PINES!”

  “Huh, wha-? What’s goin’ on?!” Stan immediately rushed out of his office, hearing Soos scream like his life depended on it.

He regretted doing so seconds later, of course - knowing Soos, he probably saw a spider in the toilet bowl or something, or maybe he walked too close to the ‘real monsters’ mirror and spooked himself. That didn’t mean he could filter out that all-too-familiar sound of terror.

  Sure enough, the heavyset, acne-riddled handyman had hunkered down behind the counter in the gift shop, which had long since emptied out since the last tour group of the evening left. He slowly rose from his hiding place, shaking.

“There’s something in the freezer, Mr. Pines…”

  Stan coughed, righting his posture and rolling his eyes. “Uh-huh. What is it this time, an arctic fox? Bartholomew the Abominable Snow-boy? That hockey-mask snowball critter from that Boxmon game you keep playin’ instead’a workin’?”

“I dunno…” Soos was no less shaken, Stan’s attempts at poking fun at him going over his head (as per usual), “…I think it might be a person. I could hear distinct person-y sounds, the ‘om nom nom nom’ of ice cream sandwiches being consumed. It’s a sound I am all too familiar with…”

Stan huffed, pushing his glasses up his nose. He supposed there was no point asking why Soos hadn’t just opened the lid.

“Well, I ain’t gonna pretend to be happy that you screamed bloody murder over somethin’ so dumb, but if some punk thinks he can eat all my ice cream for free, they got another thing comin’. Get your butt back to the break room while I take care’a this.”

“Ya mean the steam closet?”

“Yeah, that’s what I said, ain’t it?”

“Of course! Thank you, Mr. Pines!” Soos suddenly stood up and went all cheery, before bounding off into the hallways like an oversized bunny rabbit.

  Stan couldn’t help but huff again. Sometimes he felt bad for that giant child, the way he always followed his every whim without question. It was welcomed most of the time, to be sure, and maybe deep down he kinda-sorta cared for him and wanted him to stay safe, but sometimes he wished the kid would talk back to him, just once. He was so used to all the rubes in town just going along with his every scheme, sometimes it felt like cheating. …Then again, perhaps after all the crap he’s been through, he’d earned it. Or the world was just setting him up for another long-overdue cruel prank.

He brushed those thoughts off; complaining about his crappy life wasn’t going to save his precious ice cream.

  Thus, he marched out onto the gift shop porch - and just as Soos had said, he could hear a sound coming from inside the freezer. There was definitely something or someone in there - he could hear rustling and shuffling as ice dust was scattered about.

He almost had a flashback to a moment in Vegas from years ago, when he had to meet a ‘business associate’ at an abattoir and heard noises exactly like this coming from one of the walk-in freezers. …He was glad he hadn’t taken the guy up on his offer, otherwise he probably would have been locked in, and now where would he be? A shattered human popsicle, no doubt.

Stan shook his head. He needed to stay in the present before his mind went down another dark path. Not like this was even a rare occurrence - he'd dealt with punks trying to steal his ice cream before, or if not that, then squirrels or birds or that dumb goat who's always hanging around the trash, or whatever other furry jerks came along. Sometimes it was Gnomes or that naked candy-eating... goblin thing (just thinking about that little weirdo made him want to take a shower), but they were all equally vulnerable to nature's snooze button.

Readying his 8-ball cane to hit that button if he needed to, he grabbed the freezer handle, and in one swift motion, swung it as wide open as possible.

  When the cloud of cold air had dissipated, and he’d wiped the fog off his glasses, he had to do a double-take at the sight. He was not expecting this.

  There was a girl in the freezer (thankfully still alive). A freckle-faced redhead with pigtails and braces so huge she had trouble closing her mouth over them. She couldn’t have been more than 12 years old, even if she seemed freakishly tall for her age - she had to bunch up just to fit in, and it seemed like she was wearing her trousers way too high, which didn’t help. She looked like a cartoon character come to life.

  More importantly, though, she was covered in ice cream wrappers, and her mouth was stained with chocolate and sticky fruit juices. Stan had caught her in mid-surreptitious-ice-cream-sandwich-bite.

  The girl didn’t even try to say anything in her defence - after the initial shock had worn off, she got to her feet (moses, she really was freakishly tall - in the freezer, she almost reached Stan’s jaw) and tried to climb out. She hadn’t banked on Stan’s reach, plus the ice cream fatigue she must be feeling right now.

  “Oh, no ya don’t!” Stan declared, holding an arm out in front of her to block her exit. She turned around and tried to flee the other direction, only for Stan to intercept her. This continued for some time.

“UGH!” the girl grunted in annoyance, “will you lemme go, old man?!”

  Stan couldn’t help but arch a brow at the tone of her voice - it sounded a little raspy and lispy, probably thanks to those braces of orthodontic overkill. He wasn’t sure whether to find it funny or worrying.

“Not until you explain’ta me what you were doin’ rollin’ around in my freezer, scarfin’ down my ice cream, like some… penguin-pig hybrid.”

…Huh. There’s an exhibit idea.

“I was hungry!” the girl answered, throwing her hands in the air, “an’ anyway, if ya didn’t want people to eat it, ya shouldn’ta left the stupid freezer outside!”

The girl melodramatically planted her fists on her hips, groaning. “Uuuuugh, what-ever, doesn’t matter, you’re just gonna tell dad I was a dumb, stupid little girl anyway an’ get me in trouble, just like every other stupid grown-up in this stupid town…”

  Wait a second… the pose, the disgruntled look, that groan that sounded far too teenager-like coming from a pigtailed brace-face…

  “Waaaait, hold up. Ain’t I seen you in this afternoon’s tour group?”

The girl seemed to shrink in on herself, rubbing her arm as her gaze fell to the bottom of the freezer. “Hmm…yeah, I guess…”

Stan snapped his fingers as it came back to him. “Yeah, I remember. You were the girl who groaned when I showed everyone the Hide-Behind.”

“Yeah, well, the Hide-Behind looks nothin’ like that!” she snapped again, suddenly regaining her energy, “ya don’t think someone woulda noticed if it was some dude in a trenchcoat holdin’ a camera?!”

“Kid, I was tryin’ta be clever! The whole point was that it hides behind ‘journalistic integrity’, it was s’posed to be a paparazzi!”

The girl couldn’t find a retort to that, instead just throwing her arms in the air again. “…I guess!”

“Ya ‘guess’ a lotta things, huh?” Stan remarked, “I’d ask if yer well-versed in lumberjack lore or somethin’, but if ya were, I ‘guess’ ya wouldn’t need to say that so much.”

“Shut up…” the girl mumbled under her breath, deflating again. “I-I mean, my dad’s a lumberjack, but…”

  That mention of her parents, however indirect, suddenly made Stan’s posture go straight and rigid, and he immediately spied the area for anyone else. Just as before, it was pretty much empty - it was nearly nighttime, who else would be here?

  “Where the heck are your folks, anyway? I don’t wanna get arrested for kidnappin’ or child endangerment.”

  The girl loudly swallowed, trying to wipe some off the ice cream smudge off her face. “They’re… they’re not here.”

Stan’s brow arched again, but his expression quickly softened; the way she said that implied there was a pretty good reason why she wasn't with her parents right now, and in Stan's mind, the fact that she hadn't just opened with that from the start implied she was being honest, and not just trying to guilt-trip him into letting her off the hook.

Feeling a little sympathy for whatever predicament she wound up in, he offered a tissue to clean up her face. She snatched it away, only murmuring a reluctant ‘thanks’ in reply and cleaned the ice cream smudge off. He didn't comment on that, right now he was busy thinking about how strangely well she was taking this.

“…Yanno, ya didn’t hafta tell me that,” Stan finally said, “I mean, I’m a weird old stranger. Not like you can trust me. Ya coulda just said yer folks were around the corner an’ I’da left you alone.”

He wanted to add ‘probably’ in case said folks were less-than-ideal, but A) he felt he was giving himself too much credit by presuming, in the face of bad parenting, he wouldn’t just run off and hide like the coward he is, and B) that wouldn’t sound good in general regardless of the circumstance.

“I don’t care,” she quickly added, finally clambering out of the freezer and onto solid ground, wiping her dirtied hands on the tissue. “My family’s being dumb. ‘Specially my dad. I don’t wanna go home. I’d rather be with a weird old stranger! ‘Least I could bite you on the arm an’ get away with it!”

Hoo, boy. Stan really hoped that hypothetical scenario wouldn’t come up in actual real non-hypothetical life so soon… still, she seemed like a real scrapper, if that comment about arm-biting was any indication. She had energy. Maybe he was underestimating her.

  “M-my name’s Wendy,” she added in, apropos of nothing, again nervously rubbing her arm. “Just… yanno, thought you’d want to know. I guess.”

“I hadn’t asked, but thanks anyway,” Stan responded, as he began to brush his chin, leaning on his cane. Suddenly, the puzzle pieces were fitting together in his head. Gawky, tall redhead, awkward family situation, has a lumberjack for a dad, obviously lived nearby if she could get here without needing a lift...

“I don’t s’pose your dad is ‘Manly’ Dan Corduroy? I’ve worked with ‘im in the past. Pretty sure he mentioned a ‘Wendy’ a couple times. Or he coulda just been talkin’ about his ‘fwendy’. I know he’s got a softer side.”

“Psh, as if,” Wendy scoffed, “he never listens to me! And he’s always forcin’ me to do crap I don’t wanna do! Like, this summer he’s gonna make me go to some stupid logging camp so I don’t ‘slack off’! My brothers are the ones who slack off all the damn time, a-and I got friends here! I have a life, too! Uggghhhh…” she groaned again, slumping down into a sitting position in front of the freezer. “I wouldn’ta told ya this, but you’re just gonna snitch on me either way, so. Whatever! Screw it!”

“Hey!” Stan suddenly felt a wave of indignation wash over him, “now, I’m a lotta things, Wendy - some more prestigious than others - but one thing I’m not is a snitch! This whole incident’s between you an’ me. Yer dad don’t need to know. That’s how we do things back East.”

  Wendy turned away from him; she didn’t seem convinced, but whatever. She didn’t need to be convinced. He already decided he wasn’t going to tell Dan what she’d done here, no matter how good their ‘business relationship’ is. She didn't need him screaming at her over ice cream.

  Stan found himself leaning against the freezer after he closed it, almost mirroring Wendy’s posture. He took his cane and started drumming his fingers on the 8-ball tip, considering the girl’s words. He and Manly Dan were on good terms, but even he could tell that he was an intense guy. Even Stan’s own father might have told him to cut back on the whole ‘manliness’ thing.

He looked back at Wendy, who was still clearly fuming - he had no doubt she’d make good on her threat to bite him on the arm if he ticked her off. He’d only known her for about five minutes, and already, he’d be lying if he said he didn’t see a bit of himself in her. Running off to go eat someone else’s ice cream when pa was giving him a hard time was exactly young Stan’s thing. He was pretty sure Poindexter would have been on board.

  He shook that thought off without a moment’s consideration. It wasn’t nighttime yet. He was still technically in Mr. Mystery mode.

  Then he lit up, as that thought made an idea pop into his head. Summer was coming up - peak tourist season - and he could really do with an extra pair of hands to handle the menial customer service drudgery… the kind where you just sit around for hours waiting for someone to walk up to you, and get righteously angry at them if they complain about your prices (as far as Stan’s concerned, whoever said ‘the customer is always right’ can go suck a lemon).

In other words, the perfect job for this girl. He’d worry about her being too young, but he’d already burned that bridge with hiring Soos as a handyman when he was 12. He'd worry that maybe he was taking advantage of her less-than-ideal family situation, but again, it worked for Soos. He wasn't planning on forcing her to do any work she didn't want to. If she wants to say 'no', she can. He's a morally-ambiguous con artist, sure, but he's not evil.

  “Say, Wendy… ya said yer father is sendin’ ya off to this loggin’ camp so ya don’t ‘slack off’ over th’summer, right?”

Wendy turned to face him - now her brow was arched up. “Um, yes?”

“Well… ya just cost me… probably a small fortune’s worth of ice cream. I’m gonna need those frozen assets back somehow. Lucky for you, yer dad an’ I enjoy a… well, I wouldn’t say an amicable business relationship, but let’s just say we traded money an’ things happened, some wild animals ended up on my property after fallin’ outta trucks registered to ‘im, total coincidence,” Stan rattled off, circling his hand. "I figure one possible way ya could repay me was if ya worked for me. Just as long as it took for me to take the damages outta yer paycheck, which would be 100% of yer paycheck 'cause you'd technically be doin' it as a chore for me. Yanno how it is with child labour laws."

"Uh-huh..." Wendy slowly stood up, scratching the back of her neck. "S'what, ya want me to become your debt slave?"

"I wouldn't put it quite like that..." Stan admitted, effectively saying 'yes' without actually saying 'yes' (trick of the trade), "think of it as more, givin' you somethin' low-risk to occupy yerself with. A taste'a the real world. It will last ya all summer, so that means ya won't be able to attend loggin' camp, an' you'll have to stay in town where all yer friends are an' all, but like I said, yer dad an' I are... some degree of friendly. I think we could work somethin’ out with minimal fuss."

The girl, for just a brief moment, impishly smirked, but hid it almost as quickly as it appeared. Stan knew that she was putting the pieces together in her head. "Riiiight... what kinda work?"

"How’dya feel about handlin’ a cash register?”

  Wendy paused, somehow managing to top her previous looks of bemusement.

  “Dude, my dad trusts me with a friggin’ axe. I can handle a stupid cash register.”

“Ha!” Stan chuckled, “then I think you an’ I would get along just swell. Yanno, as long as ya don’t steal any more ice cream …But if ya do, pro tip: just blame it on Soos.”

“Who’s Zeus?”

“My handyman. You’ll like ‘im, he’s a good listener. …Maybe a li’l too good. Ya ever need someone to yell at about random crap without feelin’ bad, Soos is yer guy.”

‘And definitely not me’, Stan thought. After all, it’s not like he’d just let her angst about her preteen issues at him and came out pretty well by the end, and she even pretty much dodged immediate punishment for eating all his ice cream…

Stan sighed again, dragging a palm down his face. He half-wondered if she hadn’t planned this. …Would that even be a bad thing?

"Fine, I'll do it. I guess," Wendy confirmed, folding her arms. "Now where's your bathroom? I need to take a dump."

Stan grimaced for a moment; he did not need to know that, but he honestly had no right to be disgusted - not like he was much more delicate when announcing his bathroom breaks.

"'S upstairs, second door on th'left. Don't panic if it floods, Soos hasn't unclogged it in about a month an' it's prob'ly accumulated bad luck; s'matter of when, not if."

At that, Wendy just made another grunty sound of indifference and wandered inside.

Stan allowed himself a little smile - he had a good feeling about this kid. Admittedly it wasn't the first time he'd hired part-time help over the summer, but they never lasted long. He'd really struck gold with Soos, happily sticking around long after he passed the age where working 'lowly' jobs became a source of personal embarassment for most people. Most people weren't like him; they saw the Shack strictly as a means to an end. He didn't expect Wendy would be any different - she'd probably only work here for as long as she needed to get away from her hyper-masculine family, then 'peace out' (do kids still say that?) without looking back when she turned 18, and that's the best-case scenario. Most of his old part-timers didn't even stick around for more than one summer. It was like they didn't trust him or something, or got squeamish because of his, uh, flexible approach to following the law.

Maybe Wendy would be different; maybe he'd strike gold twice. She didn't seem that bothered about his obvious disregard for child labour laws, after all. Or the fact that he straight-up admitted she wouldn't be getting paid, at least until she'd paid for all the ice cream she'd eaten (which, really, would only take a day, if that - not that she needed to know, it'd be a pleasant surprise when he actually paid her). But his life had taught him that too much wishful thinking is dangerous. Besides, if she quit at the first opportunity, not like he could blame her. He wouldn't even be mad.

Maybe he'd be a little disappointed, since he kinda-sorta related to her already and kinda-sorta wanted to see her grow up happy and safe.

Ugh, what was that... warm feeling in his chest? It felt too sappy and sticky and... no, not good. He needed to find Soos, maybe he'd found another reason for him to get cranky about something.

[photogirl894]

"Sun and Rain Part 2: Age of the Empire"

Chapter 7

"Far Away"

A "Bad Batch" fanfic!

Pairing: Hunter x fem OC, Echo (more best friend pairing)

A/N: Let me tell you guys...I've had a part of this chapter already written for months and I'm glad you all will finally get to read it. I can guarantee you guys will like it 😊 And frankly, I think it's safe to say that this one will definitely make up for two chapters ago...😊 This one's a little shorter, but oh well!

Also, part of this chapter as well as the title was inspired by a song my dear friend, @scarlettroseog , sent me a while back and will be on my S&R playlist. The song is "Far Away" by Nickelback! Such a great one! 💜

Warning: slightly suggestive language (most of it implied)

Taglist: @the-sad-batch , @nimata-beroya , @intrepidmare , @tmnt-leo-simp , @tech-aficionado , @ladykatakuri , @d1n0-dan , @sammi9498 , @darthzero22 , @scarlettroseog , @tech-deck , @thebadbatchscyare , @chxpsi , @ilikemymendarkandfictional , @4pplecider , @locitapurplepink , @l-lend , @nekotaetae , @eternalwaffle , @merkitty49

《 Chapter 6

》 Chapter 8

All chapters (Part 2) (Part 1)

Explanation: The Bad Batch come up with a plan to get Cut and Suu's family away from Saleucami and Hunter and Kimber discuss Omega's future...as well as their own.

"Hunter, you cannot be serious!" Kimber exclaimed as she caught up to him, taking his arm and stopping him. "I heard what you told Cut and Suu. You're really going to make Omega leave with them and you're not even giving her a choice?"

Seeing she was clearly upset, Hunter led her by the arm to the other side of the barn where they were out of earshot from the house. "Kimber, it's for her own good. She won't be safe with us, she deserves better than this."

"What she deserves is up to her," she said back sternly. "She chose to come with us; we are the ones she wants to be with. While I don't doubt Cut and Suu are good people and would take care of her, I highly doubt that's what she would want."

"I know that, but a life with us would constantly put her in danger," he replied.

She folded her arms across her chest. "I seem to recall you saying the same thing about me once."

His expression faltered slightly at hearing her bring that up. "That was different."

"Was it? I was no different from Omega when you found me: naive and knew nothing about fighting, war or the rest of the galaxy. Yet you still took me in, anyway. I didn't even ask to stay with you, even though I wanted to, and you still came back for me and you trained me. We can do the same with Omega. We can train her so she'll be safe and she can take care of herself."

"Training you was one thing...Omega's just a kid. She shouldn't be living on the run, fighting for her survival. She should be in a place like this: with a family, playing with the kids, living a happy and free life."

Kimber took a step closer to Hunter and asked in a calmer tone, "Don't you think she thought of that when she chose to flee Kamino with us? She may be a child, but you don't give her enough credit. She was wise enough to discern that she didn't feel safe on Kamino, but she did feel safe with us. She knew what was she getting into."

Hunter just shook his head. "I'm sorry, Kimber. I know you've grown attached to her, but I can't in good conscience keep her with us. After what happened today, I know she'll be bound to get into trouble and I can't--"

"She looks up to you, Hunter," she interrupted him, "and she trusts you. She trusts all of us. What you're doing is going to devastate her."

Though, he responded back, "I'm sure she'll come around in time."

With a heavy, frustrated yet defeated sigh, she brought a hand up to her mouth, wanting to argue further, but she knew it wasn't going to get anywhere. She absolutely hated the idea of leaving Omega behind, but Hunter was being his usual obstinate self and wasn't budging on the matter.

"Fine," she stated reluctantly, holding her hands up in defeat. "You're clearly going to be stubborn about this just like everything else."

"Kimber...," he said, shaking his head in irritation.

Though she kept going, "When you break the news to Omega, don't ask me to be there...and I hope you can live with her disappointment. I really think you're making a big mistake." Then she whipped around and began to walk away from him...until she heard him speak again.

"The only mistake I've made is with you."

She stopped abruptly before looking back to face him, the perplexed look on her face silently asking him what his statement was supposed to mean. There was regret in his expression which didn't give her hope for anything good.

Then he said, his voice hard, "Kimber, I...I've made my decision. I can't do this anymore."

Those were the words she had been afraid to hear. After everything in the last few months, this was what it all had come to and she could feel her heart beginning to break inside. Her teeth clenched to keep her emotions at bay and she hung her head, bracing herself for the worst.

"I have been slowly dying inside every day not being with you."

Kimber's head shot back up in pure shock, his words striking her to the core. Had he just said...?

Hunter's expression was still full of regret, but now, his tone of voice had changed from stern to melancholic as he went on to tell her, "I wanted us to be together again the moment I saw you on Coruscant when you came back to us...but my pride and the pain I'd felt wouldn't let me go back to you. I thought if I kept myself distanced from you, I wouldn't have to experience being hurt like that again, but I realize now...that we're both going to do things that will upset or hurt each other...and it's just something we'll have to work through together."

For a moment, she was completely speechless. Was this actually real? Was Hunter telling her the truth? All this time, he'd wanted to be with her again?

When she found the will to speak again, she said in reply, "Perhaps it's what we both should've done in the first place."

Now, he gazed at her with even more sadness as he said, "I thought the pain would go away if I kept you at arm's length...but instead, it only made my heartache worse than anything I felt in the time you were gone."

"Hunter...!" she cried, walking back up to him and feeling sorry to hear him say such things.

"I've been in agony not being with you," Hunter stated hoarsely as she stopped in front of him. "Not being able to hold you, kiss you or feel your loving touch the way I could before. It was only recently that I realized I couldn't fight it anymore." His deep voice then trembled ever so slightly. "Back on Kamino...I thought they were going to take you away from us...and then Crosshair shot you...both times, I thought I was going to lose you again. I can't and I won't go through that a second time."

Hunter stepped forward and took Kimber's face in his hands, his imploring gaze delving deep into her amber eyes. "I forgive you for everything, Kimber," he said to her, "for how you left us months ago and I hope you can forgive me, too...because I am truly sorry for how I've treated you since you came back and for neglecting you the last few months. I've been an idiot and you didn't deserve any of this."

There was nothing in that moment that could've made Kimber doubt that he was being sincere and honest with her. She could see it all in his eyes and his face; the pain, the heartache, the remorse, the desperate need to be forgiven for all that he had done...it almost drove her to tears. It was looking like she wouldn't have to worry about taking Suu's advice after all.

Her Sergeant was returning to her.

Taking one of his hands on her face in hers and leaning consolingly into his palm, she responded to him softly, "Hunter...you’ve done nothing that needs forgiving. You needed time and had every right to keep me at a distance. I didn't want to pressure you into anything if you felt you weren't ready. I was prepared to wait for as long as you needed, no matter how hard it was for me."

There was both shock and relief all at once in his eyes at hearing her words. He couldn't believe that, after everything he'd done, she thought there was nothing to forgive. She was far too compassionate than he felt he deserved, but he was no less grateful.

"Please...I've been far away from you for far too long," he said. "I'm still mad for you and I need you. I want us to be together again...to go back to what we once had before."

However, she startled him by taking his hands and removing them from her face, holding them in her own between them.

Then she told him in a solemn tone, "We can never go back to what we once had." When he stared at her in confusion, a smile of gladness then slowly crept up on her face as she then went on to say, "Because what we can have now will be better than before. We're both stronger and wiser than we used to be. We've grown from our experiences and learned from our mistakes. We are better people and can share a greater bond and an even greater love than we've ever known."

A sensation of promise unlike anything he'd ever felt before rose up within Hunter's chest. He had been so afraid that Kimber wouldn't want to go back to him after everything he had done or failed to do, yet she was still proving him wrong.

His grip on her hands tightened as he stepped closer, their bodies nearly touching, as he asked her, full of hope, "So you'll have me...my love?"

A tiny gasp escaped her smiling lips at hearing him call her "my love" again at last after so long. The joy that swelled up within her at that moment felt like the joy of finally coming home.

Then she raised a hand to his tattooed cheek and declared with utter surety, "I will always have you, Hunter. In every world, in every galaxy, in every universe...I'll always choose you."

Now filled with sheer bliss, Hunter swept Kimber up into his arms, spinning her around, and she brought her arms about his neck, the two of them embracing each other and holding on like they would never let go again. At long last, after what felt like an eternity to the both of them, they had returned to each other's arms and they were finally back together as they should be, the way they had desperately longed for.

He set her back down to the ground, but they stayed clinging to each other for a moment longer as if to ensure this was all real. Then Hunter pulled back, his arms still around her, and once again looked into the glittering amber eyes of his sweetheart, his love, his beautiful Kimber, feeling like his heart could burst. He leaned forward and then firmly kissed her on her brow before touching his forehead to hers.

"It's about time," Kimber said to him with elation. "I've missed you terribly."

He lightly nuzzled her nose with his own as he replied, "I've missed you, too...more than I can say. I never want us to be apart again."

"We never will be...because I'll never leave you the way I did again," she vowed.

Kimber was then slightly taken aback when Hunter's arms released her and he took a small step back. Just as she was about to ask what was wrong, he reached his hand into a large pouch on his belt and, to her happy shock, pulled out his Republic credit necklace, holding it out in his palm for her to see.

"This belongs to you...just as my heart does and always will. The promise I made you when I gave you this the first time remains the same: I will keep fighting for a safer galaxy and a future with you," he told her. He then unfastened the cord and reverently put the necklace around her neck, his hands running over her shoulders after locking it in place.

Kimber's hand cradled the credit as she looked down at it, feeling the urge to cry building up inside her. The thoughts of all the times she'd missed having this treasured trinket around her neck returned to her and now, there it was in her hand once again. She clutched it tightly in her palm and brought her fist to her lips, trying not to let her tears fall.

Just then, she felt Hunter's hand tenderly press underneath her chin, urging her to raise her gaze back at him, the deepest look of devotion in his brown eyes.

"I love you, Kimber."

All other thoughts in her mind completely disappeared at hearing the words she'd yearned to hear again more than anything else in the galaxy and she knew it was going to be impossible to contain her joy right then.

"I love you so much," he went on fervently. "Despite everything, that never changed. You are the sun to my rain and my everlasting constant in this changing galaxy. I told you months ago that we belong with each other...and I still believe that."

Now, her eyes were definitely welling up with tears as she replied, her voice cracking with emotion, "And I love you, Hunter, with all my heart. Then and now. Always and forever. You have always been my reason to keep going since the very beginning." Then a tear fell from each of her eyes.

He brought his hand up and gently brushed her tears away before cupping her cheek. "Please don't cry."

She sobbed lightly, keeping a smile on her face. "Believe me, these are tears of overwhelming joy. The love of my life has finally come back to me. How can I hold back how happy I am?"

His hand slowly slid to the back of her head and into her hair, his face softening with desire. "Then don't. Don't hold back, my love."

Then, as if an invisible shield between them finally dissipated, their arms wrapped around each other again and their lips crashed together in a long-awaited, eager and loving kiss, perhaps the greatest and sweetest one they had ever shared. The feeling of being in each other's loving embrace, their lips harmoniously dancing together and sharing in their love after so long apart was just euphoric and amazing. They came apart briefly, smiling and laughing with gladness, before they kissed each other again, this time with more prolonged zeal and passion, their buried desires for each other bursting forth. Kimber clutched at Hunter's shirt and pulled him closer, backing up with him until her back hit the wall of the barn, his hands running up and down her back and hers sliding up to caress his face. Their undeniable need and longing for each other was substituting all other thoughts or logic in their minds. It was only them in the moment. Literally nothing and no one else mattered but them reuniting as they knew they should've forever ago.

Kimber pulled away and stated with heavy breath, "In the barn. Now."

As she began ardently kissing his neck, Hunter insisted, knowing what she was implying, "Sweetheart, we can't."

She pulled back and refuted, "Everyone else is inside or back at the Marauder."

"There are children here," he said.

"Omega is on the ship and the other two are busy packing. There's nothing to worry about." She took his face in her hands and kissed him firmly before telling him, her voice low with lust, "I've longed for you for months and I can't wait a moment longer. I need you now, my Sergeant."

Hunter had almost forgotten what hearing her call him by his rank did to him and his inner fire rose even more, his desire for the gorgeous woman he loved before him now turning all-consuming.

A flirtatious smirk crossed his face as he then asked in reply, "Then who am I to keep my love waiting?"

He rejoined his lips with hers with fierce intensity for a short moment before hoisting her up off the ground by her thighs, wrapping her legs around him, and carrying her into the barn, ready and eager to make up for lost time at last.

“It’s ironic,” stated Echo, now sitting in front of the computer in the Marauder, “Clones wanted names instead of numbers…yet now, people are signing up to be given numbers.”

Tech, who was leaning against the other console behind him and on his datapad, said in reply, “It’s ingenious. You could create a database to identify anyone in the galaxy.”

“Glad you’re impressed,” said Echo sarcastically, turning in his chair to look at him, “but where are we going to find the data for these chain codes? And the disks?

“Already thought of that,” said Tech. Then he explained, “Clones now control the spaceport. There, we can tap into their network and replicate the codes.”

“Then what?”

“Hunter said they’re tagging ships inside their impound facility. That is our way in.”

Perplexed, Echo asked to clarify, “You’re suggesting we call the authorities and have them seize our ship?”

“That is exactly what I am saying,” Tech stated as a matter of factly.

“I guess if they think it’s abandoned…that just might work,” Echo then agreed.

With an adjustment of his goggles, Tech replied, “Of course, it’s going to work.”

Echo just shook his head. “Ever the humble one,” he commented. “We’ve still got a couple hours until the shuttle is due to leave, but I’ll comm Hunter and let him know our plan.” He activated his commlink, paging Hunter’s frequency, and spoke, “Hunter, come in. Tech and I have a plan we--”

His message was cut off by an unexpected and shocking response.

Moans and cries of passion sounded through on Echo’s comm, both male and female, gasping each other’s names. Echo and Tech exchanged wide-eyed, bewildered and albeit mortified glances at hearing such lewd sounds and Echo immediately turned his commlink off, caught off guard by the whole thing.

After a brief awkward silence, Tech spoke up, “Well…apparently, he left his commlink on, but I think from that we can infer that the Sergeant is in fact…occupied at present.”

“Yeah, no kidding,” replied Echo, trying to push what he heard out of his mind. “We should probably let Wrecker know not to call Hunter anytime soon. He definitely doesn’t need to hear that.”

“Agreed. I believe it’s also safe to assume that things between Hunter and Kimber are now better,” Tech added.

Echo scoffed. “I’m pretty sure they’re more than ‘better’,” he said back. Despite how embarrassed he was, he also couldn’t help but smile. That had to mean only one thing. “They’re finally back together,” he said out loud in realization.

“Indeed…and it’s about time,” said Tech. “Even I was beginning to grow weary of them dancing around each other all the time.”

“If you were tired of it, imagine how I’ve felt,” Echo said. “I’m Kimber’s best friend and I’ve been privy to all of this.”

“I suggest we still go ahead with the plan and we’ll comm Hunter in an hour or so. We’ll give those two some uninterrupted time,” Tech suggested. 

With a nod, Echo said back, “Sounds good to me,” and then turned back in his chair towards the computer, a pleased grin still on his face. They had finally done it. Watching Kimber silently suffer for months while Hunter went around not being able to make up his mind had been difficult for Echo as well as for Tech and Wrecker…and Crosshair, too.

It was too bad that Crosshair wasn’t here…he would’ve been glad for Kimber and Hunter and certainly wouldn’t have let them live down how long it took for them to finally get back together. His support would’ve meant a lot to them, especially Kimber.

“Now…who knows if he would even care?” he thought to himself disdainfully. 

Though, that didn’t matter at the moment. His best friend and his leader were now a couple again and they would be happy, which was what he had hoped for, for a long time. With that knowledge in mind, he now felt even more motivated to enact Tech’s plan so his squad as well as Cut and Suu’s family could get away from Saleucami and get on with their lives. 

Neither Hunter nor Kimber knew how much time had passed since they got into the barn, but they didn’t care. Time and everything else outside of the wooden walls seemed irrelevant, despite knowing they would have to go back out and face it all later on. For right now, it was just them alone, having just made love and once more consummated their relationship, showing in many ways how much they missed and loved each other. They both hadn’t realized just how much pining passion they had buried within themselves during all those months of waiting until the dams had burst after Hunter’s confession. Once that was done, there was no keeping them apart whatsoever. 

Now, the two of them laid in a stall full of hay, their clothes piled in a corner, entwined in each other’s arms and kissing one another in post-euphoric bliss. Their mouths were moving in a loving, romantic ritual that they never wanted to end.

“How did I ever go so long without you, sweetheart?” Hunter asked in between kisses. 

“You tell me,” Kimber answered. “I was the one waiting for you.”

He pulled back and rested his forehead on hers. “I know…I’m sorry I made you wait,” he said in a soft voice.

“Hunter, darling, stop apologizing,” she told him before kissing him reassuringly, running her hands through his hair. “I would have waited for the rest of time for you, if that’s what it took.”

He caressed her face in response. “I don’t deserve you, Kimber Sallaros.”

She said back with confidence, “Maybe you don’t…but I think you do, Sergeant Hunter, and only my opinion on that matters. I am forever yours and you are forever mine. Nothing in this galaxy will ever change that, no matter how hard it tries.”

Touched and driven by her words, he cupped her cheek and kissed her again, happily and passionately, feeling as though he could kiss her soft lips every moment for the rest of his life without ever tiring of it. When he came back, he gazed dotingly into her eyes, caressing her cheek with his thumb.

“Forever mine,” he whispered. 

She smiled up at the handsome face of her beloved Sergeant, her Hunter. Being there with him made her the happiest she had felt in what seemed like ages. The hole that had been in her heart all that time was now filled; the half of her that was missing was now found. She felt whole and complete again. How she wished that the two of them could stay like this and forgo everything else. Just the two of them without a care in the world, their only focus being each other and their continued happiness…but she knew that couldn’t be so. At least, not yet. Not with the Empire and them living on the run with their squad. Though, she still held the hope that deep down, that dream would one day become a reality.

“We probably should get back before anyone realizes we’ve been missing,” Kimber suggested to Hunter. 

Hunter sighed heavily with exasperation, his head falling against her chest. “Yeah, I guess we should. The last thing we need is someone coming in and finding us like this...especially one of the kids.”

He got to his feet and then pulled her up along with him and they started to put their clothes back on, but not before Kimber stole one last kiss from Hunter. They pulled their clothes on and made sure to clear the hay from each other’s hair so as to hide evidence of their activities. Though, at the mention of the kids, Kimber’s mind wandered back to their earlier argument regarding Omega. She still felt uneasy about what Hunter wanted to do and wondered if perhaps, after what had just transpired, maybe he would be a more open listener and perhaps change his mind.

Once she finished dressing, she asked him, “Hunter, are you absolutely sure about sending Omega with Cut and Suu? I know they would take care of her, but I just have a strong, uneasy feeling about it.”

In reply, he pressed his lips to her forehead and said calmly, “Things are too dangerous for her to stay with us right now. She’ll be safer with Cut and Suu.”

“But we can protect her, I’m sure we can,” she argued.

“Kimber,” he said insistently, gently taking her arms. “Do you trust me?”

While slightly taken aback at the question, she still answered straightaway, “Yes, of course, I do. I love you.”

“Then trust me right now,” he told her. “I want what’s best for Omega just as much as you do. This is for her own good.” He reached up and lightly brushed her cheek. “I know you’ve grown to like her and you want to look after her, but sending her with Cut and Suu is the best option. If possible, we can always go back for her later.”

“She’s not going to like it,” she stated. 

He sighed again. “I know she won’t, but one day, she’ll understand.”

“I hope you’re right,” she sighed, relenting and hanging her head. 

He lifted her head back up to kiss her long and comfortingly, conveying to her as best he could that everything was going to be okay. Then he brushed her nose with his and said, “And I love you, too.”

Kimber failed to hold back a joyful smile. Even after exchanging those three words between them almost several times beforehand during their time of ecstasy and rapture, it still almost felt like a dream to hear him saying it to her again.

Keeping his face close to hers and slowly running his hands up her sides, he went on to say in a husky voice, “Though, after this, I don’t know how I’m going to keep my hands off you for very long.” 

“You will show restraint, Sergeant,” she ordered him, playing along.

“Are you trying to pull some sort of Jedi mind trick on me?” he questioned her choice of words, his mouth hovering just a taunting breath away from hers.

She shook her head and smirked. “Not a Jedi mind trick…a Kimber mind trick. Which only works on you because I know you can’t say ‘no’ to me.” Then she playfully kissed the tip of his nose.

He hummed and said back, “You know, you’re right,” before pulling her against him and bringing their lips together yet again, unable to get enough of her to satisfy him. 

Even though she gave in and kissed him back for a moment, Kimber then pulled away and said, “All right, Hunter, we run the risk of someone coming in on us the longer we’re in here. Besides, we need to check in with the others to figure out how we’re going to help Cut, Suu and the kids get out of here.”

Despite his reluctance to leave, Hunter then said back, “All right. Echo and Tech should be taking care of that. I’ll call them when we get back to the house and see what they’ve got.”

“You did what?!”

Hunter pounded his fist holding his commlink on the table in Cut and Suu’s house and shook his head before dashing out the front door with Kimber behind him. After he and Kimber had returned to the house and helped gather some of the family’s belongings outside, Hunter had commed Tech about what their plan was for the chain codes and both Hunter and Kimber heard Tech tell him that they had called the local authorities to come and seize the Marauder in order to get into the spaceport to replicate the codes. Naturally, Hunter was not pleased and just as he and Kimber got outside, they caught sight of the impound ship taking up the Marauder in a tractorbeam of some kind into the sky before flying off in the direction of town. Wrecker and Cut came and joined them as they watched what was happening with surprise.

“Tech!” Hunter growled out. 

“This was the simplest solution,” Tech told him on the comm.

“Getting our ship impounded is not my idea of a solution!” Hunter replied in frustration.

Then Tech came back with, “We'll meet you at the spaceport with the chain codes. I have this under control.” 

Kimber took Hunter’s comm out of his hand and then cried into it, “There's one big problem. Omega's on the ship!”

Back on the Marauder, Echo and Tech looked to each other, bewildered at hearing that Omega was on the ship when neither of them had ever heard her, and their eyes went to the rear gunner’s mount where they knew she liked to be. Sure enough, they spotted her head of blonde hair peeking out at them and waving.

“I think it’s a good plan, Tech,” she agreed pleasantly.

“So much for simple,” Echo said, resigned. 

Then she went on to ask them, “Um, by the way…what were Hunter and Kimber doing earlier that you heard over your comm, Echo? I’ve never heard those sounds before.”

“Oh, no…,” Tech muttered, facepalming, as they both then realized that she had been there the entire time.

Humiliated, Echo rolled his eyes, ran his hand over his face and grumbled, “Ugh…I’ll tell you when you’re older.”

[jslittlebirdie]

Temptation and Desire

Pairing: Ledger!Joker x Reader

Summary: J has been away from you for too long and your feelings for him have built up. You're waiting for the moment to finally give in to your desire. If only he would let you.

Word count: 1,202

Genre: suggestive / fluff

Warnings: J being a bit of a tease; heavy kissing/making out; innuendo at the end of the fic, but nothing explicit

Notes: This is pretty much the first time I've written something like this, so I'm admittedly pretty insecure and nervous😅 Also, if there are any warnings missing, please tell me and I will add them promptly. Thank you very much.

Again, a very big thank you to my best friend @fan-of-pretty-much-2-much for inspiring, motivating and encouraging me and for this wonderful title🥺💜 You're just always such a big help and support in so many ways! I love you so incredibly much! Thank you for everything😭

Taglist: @ajokeformur-ray @sacredempressnatlyia @rommies

It was dark in the living room. The old floor lamp that was standing to your right was the only source of light in the small room. You sat next to each other on the sofa in silence. J was tinkering with one of his devices - you weren't exactly sure what it was, but you guessed it was one of those remote detonators he often used in his businesses.

But there was a tension in the air that was almost tangible. Or at least you felt tense, somewhat on edge. You couldn't concentrate on the book you had started to read. The sparse light made it hard for you to make out anything anyway. A prickly feeling spread throughout your body, a knot forming in your stomach. It was the first night in three days that J had returned from his work, and you had missed him. Missed him a lot.

You couldn't help but shift your gaze from the printed words in front of you to him. You watched as his gloved hands worked. It was a fascinating sight, and like many times before, you wondered how and why he had acquired these deadly abilities. But even more fascinating was his face. It looked almost ghostly, the way the white paint was illuminated. The way his prominent features were accentuated. And the way his tongue popped out every now and then to lick his lips in concentration. His lips…

Of course, he had noticed how you were staring at him. He had to hold back his grin. It wasn't the right time yet. Out of the corner of his eye, he observed you and whispered, "What are you thinking, doll? Hmm?" His tongue darted out once again - making a soft smacking sound - as he licked across the scar that parted his lower lip. Your eyes followed this quick movement as if hypnotized, and the urge to grab him by his collar and kiss him hard became almost unbearable. "No, wait. Don't say it. I'm sure I know what you're thinking."

He put aside the small screwdriver he had been working with and tilted his head. He blinked at you with eyes that seemed to devour you with such intensity that your knees went weak and your mind dizzy. Then he moved closer to you. He reached out to take the book from you and place it on the coffee table, and you let it happen. So full of eager anticipation were you. What would he do? Would he give you what you were longing for? But of course he wouldn't make it easy for you. He was a tease. He loved to play with your little emotions, test your limits, and stall you until you were literally begging for him. But in the end, you always got what you wanted - what you both wanted. That's exactly how it would be this time too.

He leaned towards you until the tips of your noses were only a few inches apart and you could feel his warm breath on your skin. His closeness sent a pleasant shiver down your spine and caused goosebumps to spread. Your fingers twitched as you moved your hands upwards. But he grabbed both of your wrists with a much larger stronger hand, preventing you from touching his face.

"J..." you murmured in frustration, trying to free your hands. You weren't in the mood for his games. You longed for him. You needed him.

But his hold on you only tightened. The corners of his mouth twitched upwards into a devious grin as he noticed your reaction. "A-ta-ta. No. I know what you want. But first it's my turn, toots."

He came closer to you. So close. You could feel the soft cushioning of the sofa at your back as he placed himself over you and gently but firmly pushed you down, trapping you with his body beneath him. You tensed, but at the same time you were like putty in his hands. Your eyes widened as you watched him bare his yellowed teeth like a feral animal and then use them to free his hand from his leather glove. His fingertips slowly traced along your jawline - way too slowly - then over your lips. You had to swallow hard, your mouth going dry. He teased you, driving you out of your mind. Your cheeks flushed, your breathing quickened, and the knot in your stomach tightened even more. J chuckled when he noticed. But he wasn't done with you yet.

He brushed your hair aside to expose your neck. His sinful lips wandered over your skin and breathed feather-light kisses on it. Until he reached the sensitive spot just below your ear. There he sucked and nibbled until he left a dark purple hickey that he adored - he loved marking you as his and only his, and purple really suited you well. You squirmed under him, you could barely stand not being able to touch him. You wanted it so badly - you wanted him so badly. You couldn't suppress a soft moan. And so did his name escape your lips, it sounded more desperate than you had intended.

He stopped for a moment, took a deep breath between clenched teeth, and closed his dark-rimmed eyes. A deep growl rose in his chest. Even though he didn't like it, he was growing impatient. "Say it. I want to hear it."

"Please, J..."

"What was that? I can't hear you, sweets." Even though he was getting impatient, J was a man with an extraordinary amount of self-control and discipline.

"I... want to touch you, J." Your face turned redder, if that was even possible. Blood rushed in your ears. "I want to kiss you."

He hummed in satisfaction and then finally released your wrists, but not without giving them a final squeeze. Your gazes met and you lost yourself in his dark brown eyes, which sparkled mischievously and hungrily. That was the moment when the knot inside you snapped and you couldn't hold on any longer. Quite contrary to your usual rather reserved and shy nature. You cupped his face with both hands, your thumbs stroking the jagged scars along his cheeks. The skin was soft under your fingers and he shuddered at your touch, which only encouraged you more. You needed to feel his lips on yours. Now!

It was a wild, passionate kiss full of raw emotion. Teeth clashed against each other. Your hands left his cheeks and you buried them in his slightly greasy and tangled hair as you tried to pull him even closer to you. And he granted you this favor. All too gladly. You felt him smirk against your lips - amused was he by your sudden outburst - but you didn't care. All that mattered right now was that he was with you, that he was safe. That you could feel him.

And if he was honest, he felt the same way. Even though he might never say it out loud, he had missed you too. Three days without you had been too long. Way too long. There was a lot of catching up to do. And this was just the beginning of a long sleepless night.

[holden-caulfield]

Hatred, you thought.

↪︎ 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

SUMMARY: enemies that get trapped in the same room and have no choice but to work together to get out, inevitably leading the two of them to realize their true feelings for each other to lovers.

WARNINGS: is it angsty? i don't think so, fluffy ending tho

WORD COUNT: 1991

A/N: i'm not really sure what this is, but i used my prompt and this came out... i don't think i ever mention draco but i wrote this with him in mind. also, i don't think they are in school, it's an au of some sort and it's very messy :) it will make sense as you read it tho!!

No way out. An empty room. Just you and him.

Oh, how ironic Fate could be, how insensitive, cruel and ironic.

No way out.

You were stuck, how it happened was still a mystery to you. Such a fool for having let yourself be trapped in there.

An empty room.

No windows, just a door, which was now sealed. The only source of lightning was enough to illuminate both of your faces, his features so sharp in the pale light emanated from the dangling lamp above you.

Just you and him.

It could have been anyone, but it had to be him, of course. He wasn't any happier than you, he despised you just as much as you did, if not more.

But there you were, alone together. Words weren't needed because facial expressions were enough to convey each other's feelings: scowls perfectly disclosed any emotion that passed through your minds. Aversion, loathing, abhorrence, hate.

Such a strong word, you never thought you'd have used it to describe someone, but he was worthy of the title. You hated him, so deeply, so violently, so passionately.

He was much more generous with the use of the word, he hated pretty much everyone who didn't agree with him. But with you. Oh, with you it was different. He made sure you knew he actually hated you. It was not playful banter, it was not temporary animosity. It was pure, unfathomable hatred.

Then why did you find yourself there with him? Fate, once more, came into play.

It has such a weird way of playing, Fate. It can conjoin long lost lovers just as easily as it can unite sworn enemies who would happily have nothing to do with each other. And it takes great pleasure in doing the latter; you couldn't help but imagine the Moirai laughing, deriding you as they spun the inexorable thread that was your own Fate. Insensitive and cruel they were as they got their merciless job done.

"What now?" he asked, but he already knew the answer. He didn't want to admit it, admit he needed your help; neither did you.

But the only alternative was waiting, waiting for the inevitable destiny that would have hit you if you hadn't got out of the room. However, that meant more time to share with him, and neither of you was hoping on it.

"We find a way out, isn't it obvious?" you couldn't refrain the sarcasm dripping from your tone. The even deeper scowl decorating his face was worth it.

"How?" it took a lot out of him to stop himself from snapping at you as he analyzed the only object in the chamber, the door.

"Aren't you the one always preaching about his above-average intellect? Put it to good use, then." you knew snarky remarks wouldn't have helped you to find a way out, but they did help improve your mood, even if only in the slightest.

"No lock. No handle. No hinges. What is your great intellect suggesting?" he threw away that last ounce of restraint he had in him and decided to play your game. A challenge, to entertain you while you endured his vile presence.

"Push it. Break it down."

"Ladies first." you took a running start and collided with the door. It didn't budge.

You tried again, this time he joined you. It didn't budge. Useless attempts.

"Great idea." you could feel the smirk in his voice but you didn't give him the satisfaction and stared at the still-closed door instead.

No way out. An empty room. Just you and him.

When suddenly an illumination: while scrutinizing the room, you looked up and, narrowing your eyes, you noticed a square-shaped line, so thin you couldn't have seen it if you hadn't been so focused.

"Give me a hand, quick!" you let of all the hostilities as an opportunity arose and grasped his shoulder, forcing him to look towards the area your finger pointed to.

He joined his hands and helped you reach what you hoped was a trap door.

"God, i thought you were lighter..."

"And i thought you were stronger but look at us." you stretched your arms to reach it but it was still too high up, "Higher!"

"I can't extend myself, you know?" he said, quite irritated.

"Oh woah, something you can't do? Bewildering..." arms still outstretched, you lifted yourself on your toes. A mistake.

You lost balance and could already taste the blood in your mouth from the inevitable contact with the floor, but it never happened.

Because he caught you. You were shocked and from the look in his eyes, he was too.

"Try not to do other stupid things because i won't be there to catch you again." you quickly lifted yourself from his hold and immediately started to study another way to reach the trap door, your only hope, but in your mind thoughts about what had just happened still roamed freely.

There was no explanation other than the fact that he could not work with an injured person; if you had hurt yourself, you would have been weaker and therefore unable to help him get out. Yes, that was the reason.

"Give me a lift again."

"You can't reach it-"

"Give me a lift. Again." your tone was sterner and he complied, but not before scoffing and rolling his eyes.

You climbed on his hands once more, but it was still too high. You lifted your foot tentatively and placed it on his shoulder.

"Woah, are you trying to kill me up there?!"

You didn't answer, instead using the new added height to reach the ledge. You pushed it open and climbed up, successfully exiting the room you had called prison just moments ago.

"Always."

He smirked disapprovingly, a smile that didn't reach his eyes, and signaled for you to help him out now, so you moved to find something, anything to help him.

It was dark, the only light brightening the new corridor that had just appeared was faint and came from the far end of it.

You crossed the entire hallway, looking for a rope or a box strong enough to support your nemesis when it dawned on you: your nemesis. Why were you even helping him? Sure he had helped you, but that was before you were free.

You had now a choice, he didn't have any. If he did, he wouldn't have been so magnanimous. He surely wouldn't.

You kept on going towards the light, strengthening with every step you took when a rope appeared in your way.

The choice was now concrete. You could help him. Or you couldn't.

"Y/l/n! Found anything?" what to do now? He wouldn't have helped you.

"Took you long enough, huh?"

"I was trying to find something, you ungrateful twat." you sneered as you threw him the rope. He grasped it and began climbing, but you had still time. Time to let the thread go and leave him there. Time to save yourself.

But you didn't, an actual reason still missing in your mind. Too much compassion, too much pity, you thought. But you weren't convinced, you couldn't lie to yourself, there was something else.

He climbed all the way up, you offered your hand to finally hoist him on the ledge. He considered it, he refused it.

"We're not friends, y/l/n."

"Believe me, i know. I was just trying to make sure i hadn't to get you up here all over again. I thought you were lighter, you know?" he glowered at you, but it was not the same as before, as always.

One way out. Just you and him.

You treaded that same corridor you had crossed seconds ago, besides him this time. It was narrow and your bodies tried so hard not to touch but it was close to impossible. Shoulders collided, legs bumped, hands grazed. But eyes refused to meet; hatred, you repeated to yourself.

The light seemed to never arrive even as you quickened your step. You were running, striving to reach that light that you so desperately clang to. But then a sudden stop.

The hand that was once ruthlessly brushing against yours, grasped you. It was rushed, it was vital, it was puzzling. But it held you close to him.

He was your enemy, you needed to distance yourself, but you couldn't find the strength in you to do so. Hatred, you repeated in your head and you pushed him away.

"Watch your step." he said, pointing to a hole in the floor, a square one. You were running in circle.

You felt stupid, to think he had forgotten your rivalry so easily, to think things had changed between you.

"Thanks." it came out of your mouth without thinking. Good manners are hard to forget, you reckoned.

A pause.

"You're welcome." could a situation of forced proximity really change the feelings between two people?

Incredibly thin is the line between love and hate.

You didn't love him. You didn't hate him either. Things were evolving, you didn't know whether it was good or bad, but they were.

"We have to find another way." you thought aloud. He agreed with a simple nod, no remarks. The awkward exchange must have had an effect on him just as much as it did on you, or so you thought.

His eyes were lighter than you had ever seen them, his face seemed tense, but it was not a grimace; that was new. He looked quite entrancing when he wasn't too busy glowering at you, his features looked endearing as they attentively surveyed the area.

Sense of guilt took over because you knew you shouldn't have been thinking about such things, but had he always been so tall and captivating? Had you never noticed that sparkle in his eyes that caused the image of crystals glinting in the sun to appear in your mind? Was he thinking the same?

Undecipherable; intriguing. You wanted to know more, was it possible? You pondered no further and returned your gaze to the corridor, unwillingly.

It was his turn to watch you now because when you turned again you caught him staring.

"What are you looking at?" you couldn't help the defensive tone with which you uttered the sentence, but it didn't bother him.

"You saved me. Why?" he was genuine, he was sincere and this had you even more confused than you already were.

"You did too, it's nothing but a temporary truce."

"Is it?" he whispered without missing a beat and suddenly the walls weren't narrow anymore, no, they were far too wide, he was far too distant. As if reading your mind, he took a step closer.

"Of course it is." were you that sure?

"Are you sure?"

"Of course i am."

"But why did you save me?" what game was he playing? Your mind was not able to form any coherent thought as the man in front of you kept on making questions to which you didn't know the answer. You didn't want to admit the answer.

"It's just a truce, we hate each other-"

"Do we?" his questions were quick, it was much simpler making them than answering them.

"Do we?" you repeated.

"You could have left me there..."

"Do we?" you insisted.

"You didn't have to do that, you could have-"

"Do we hate each other?" you were impatient to hear him say it.

He remained silent but his eyes were speaking, only his mouth didn't allow them.

"Do we hate each other or-"

He cut you off, that same mouth that had suddenly become dumb reached yours. Hatred, you repeated in your head.

You kissed him too, logic leaving your mind, hands entangling in his hair, bodies flush against each other.

Love, you admitted.

Maybe Fate wasn't as cruel as you thought.

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[iscarioted]

Anderson & The Trio || HC

Okay so, heres a really long headcanon that I have about Anderson mentoring the trio. Largely based in my interpretation of Anderson not being comfortable indoctrinating children into Iscariot as like... A common thing, neither do I believe that the orphanage does so as a whole. Feel free to disagree and think otherwise, I do admit it would make sense and I can still honestly see it myself--- it's just not something that reconciles with my developed interpretation of Anderson. It isn't something he'd do on a whim or be easily convinced of.

The fact he mentored them for Iscariot at all is still... bad, I won't argue that, but what was required to convince him and the way he went about it (per my hcs) arguably makes it... not as bad... as it could be? It's up for debate. Just clarifying I don't believe that my convoluted idea about the whole thing makes it all okay and I formulated this with intent to morally clear Anderson.

NOTE: this features parts of my own personal headcanon that the process of becoming a Regenerator has a high mortality rate and is unknown why some people successfully survive while others do not. Also, I'm sure other personal headcanons not directly stated are in here too, like Anderson's childhood I gave him. I think too much about Anderson, y'all. That's it.

If this needs any TWs, please tell me.

With how I've developed Anderson beyond the canon, coupled with my own comforts, a big part of my interpretation is: Anderson cares a lot about all children, even more for his orphans, and it's his #1 weakness he actively indulges to an extreme. His childhood traumas made him queasy over children not being handled right and he has a short-fuse triggering rages to protect innocent souls. It's the one thing he's allowed to become almost equal to his loyalty to Iscariot--- where he can choose the obligations he has to children over Iscariot, if there's reason and atonable from. Big deal when Iscariot drowned Anderson (still does) in religious brainwashing, and expects full compliance (though we know he's bad at that).

The most concerning thing we see from Anderson towards children is telling two fighting kids that violence won't get them into Heaven... unless you're "rowdy with demons and heathens". Some of his Iscariot nature is leaking through, but these kids aren't scarred. Anderson knows kids aren't ultra fragile things some people freak out insisting. They can hardly read at their age, they're not gonna understand the origin of some of the things he says. It's not wholly appropriate though, but I feel is fitting to his character--- he's not a normal person by any means and while I headcanon he's the most normal with children, he's still... Anderson.

On his own, Anderson would not consciously influence a child so they're tailored to serve Iscariot once an adult. It's not a standard duty of Iscariot. Ferdinand Lukes isn't a secret Iscariot operation. Anderson isn't priming on a whim. Anderson wouldn't know if Iscariot does indoctrination to children as the elites absolutely know he'd wig the fuck out. Anderson is their best weapon and that gives him a lot of privileges akin to the highest elite without their title, but he's not told everything on purpose without them controlling the introduction. They've studied Anderson for years and know what'll make Iscariot lose Anderson as an asset.

However, the elites and the person who preceded Maxwell did deem it safe to suggest the idea to Anderson, methodically precise that it technically wasn't an order Anderson's thinks he has to follow and get stressed over following orders vs. his personal morals as a caretaker. Their wording of the proposal was selected specifically to make it sound as minimally bad it could be twisted into. It's well understood Anderson is God's wild card at heart, very fond of intense mood swings fixated on making a corpse when it comes on. Not a problem when the dead are nobody the Vatican cares about. Good riddance. Not Catholic??? They had it coming.

Suddenly a terrifying crisis when Anderson looks at fellow peers with the same lethality. This has happened only a few times but Anderson made it clear he will kill anyone if he thought the Lord was speaking His will through him.

Iscariot posed it as an experiment to see if there's a positive payoff worth more being lost by having someone like Anderson, who is a precious asset always available to drop what he's currently doing to heed the call, reducing his time spent on missions in the present to focus on specially mentoring someone to match the ideal profile of an Iscariot agent. In theory, they'd embody what makes Anderson so uniquely valuable and unlike anyone else... besides the obvious reason being he's the only Regenerator we know of.

The discussion involves the hypothesis that the secret to surviving the Regenerator trials is a compatible inner spirituality (as part of religion, spirit is quantifiable and tangible to them). Greater than zealous faith, beyond self-confidence, and only understood as hard to find since it's so undefinable. Anderson may impart this spirit he's carrying in him if he is a proper idol to someone youthfully impressionable. The window of time open where someone can be bestowed the spirit could be a window that snaps shut with maturity.

If anything happens to Anderson, the Vatican is exposed to supernatural threats only a Regenerator could deal with. Any lowly thug from Hell is going to slink out of the shadows when the untouchable Vatican is left unguarded. There's been Regenerators before Anderson but not another one after his trial. Iscariot is mighty desperate when the corpses of failed trials pile high with nothing to show as worth it.

Clever really. Remind Anderson of the brewing emergency and get him to agree that can't happen to the Vatican, consciously unaware that he's also agreeing unusual risks should be taken for the sake of the Vatican. Like the one he's being talked into taking.

To Anderson's offense he has to Not Show, the elites would say they could even get all the goods of Anderson without his "flaws" (said vaguely ominous) if it was done right. That's the general gist of Iscariot's presentation, also doubling as why I'd think it HAS to be Anderson for this, Iscariot is bothering to put in all this effort, and not ask the hundreds of other people who would do it even if described wretchedly awful. Iscariot has the security of the detailed psychological profile of Anderson and the want to duplicate special traits unique to Anderson. They wouldn't risk upsetting Anderson by poking at his precious relationship with children if there wasn't a gain from it they're blindly praying for.

Anderson is still uncomfortable with the idea. They're asking Anderson to force miracles from a child. He doesn't like it, a lot can go wrong and make the end result a scarred innocent. All prayers unanswered. Imagining someone he raised himself going through the trauma of the Regenerator Trials and dying because they were wrong... He isn't sure if he can handle that.

He doesn't say no. But he's not saying yes. The elites were prepared for this. They tell Anderson to think on it. In fact, they will let him be the one deciding who is his apprentice and the way they will be mentored. Anderson can do what feels the mostly godly to him. The Lord will guide him. Keep an eye out to the souls around him to be witness a spark if there is one.

By this time, he knew the trio to already be special to him in a way the rest of the other orphans he cared for weren't. They are all his children, he is a father to every kid that passes through the orphanage, but for those three... It was more real. He's not like a father to them, he IS their father. He can't make it official on paper due to being a priest. Yet this doesn't demean the connection in the slightest.

If asked what part of them made them dearer to him than others, Anderson wouldn't be able to say. It was fated, the Lord works in mysterious ways. He takes what was given to him without needing to understand why he was chosen. The trait all three share is they arrived in Ferdinand Lukes with serious behavioral issues that challenged Anderson's skill as a healing caretaker, creating situations leading to a resulting deep bond between them and Anderson. But many of the orphans come traumatized, Anderson is specialized in caring for traumatized children, which is why it's a matter of destined fate.

They were who Anderson should've thought of first as potential apprentices, that is purely logical sense. This didn't occur to Anderson though, for a long time. Their dearness to him blinded him, since he'd never want misfortune to come to them.

Until one day, as he monitored the three playing together, the realization struck like lightning enlightening him that they're who he wanted in an apprentice. He found them.

Anderson went straight to Iscariot with their names, vouching that he knows they are destined for greatness and Iscariot has place in this. Iscariot approves Anderson's choice despite only wanting him to have picked one person. They compromised since Anderson indecisively stalled so long, they didn't want him to be conflicted any longer than he has.

The trio I headcanon are real close in age which is fundamental to how Anderson mentored them for Iscariot. They were around ~13 when he started to pay closer attention to the way they were maturing. They were ~14 when Anderson began to very subtly bring up topics that weren't typical to the normal teaching of Catholicism. How they reacted to it was crucially important, he was seeing how they felt about certain ideas (e.g. did it scare them or did they engage in nuanced discussion with Anderson) and their opinions on the subject. Anderson wasn't overt in that there's a reason for the conversation originating from dark secrets kept from the major population.

At ~15, it became more direct. Anderson clued them on that this isn't something he should be talking about with them. Are they uncomfortable with that, do they squirm being told they can't talk about these things with other childrens and even adults that aren't Anderson?

This is the part that Anderson struggled with most. It felt ... Wrong. This is when he thought about backing out the most. During this time, he pays immense attention to how they're reacting, processing, and are discomforted. All and any signs that he needs to cease taking them down this path. He isn't going to force them into something he thinks would be too much for them to handle or don't really want. No. He won't do that to them and not even Iscariot can force that.

He dumps a lot of one-on-one personal time with them, giving special lessons exclusive to them. He teaches them how to defend themselves, getting them comfortable enforcing what can be seen as violence. How to properly make a fist to throw a punch, the stance their feet should be in, the vulnerabilities in physical bodies they can use to gain ground against someone stronger. There's scenarios to use this knowledge in, he'll tell them what kinds. They move onto gun safety. The mechanics of a gun, the dos and dont's, how to hold a gun to account for recoil. He takes them to shooting ranges.

I don't have an exact age in mind for when Anderson sits them down and tells them about Iscariot finally. Bestowing the secret that the Vatican has secret divisions, the people of these sections following words of God that aren't in the Bible. They're given the privilege to break the normal customs of Catholicism so they can do what must be done to facilitate God's true will and be the vanguards of the Vatican unpraised by the majority. Anderson is one of these people, it's why he goes on so many "business trips" that don't make sense, don't have traceable details. He's a hunter of monsters, the firstline fighter against heathens and demons no mere human could ever hope to withstand let alone conquer. He performs miracles, magic is real and his is holy.

It won't be easy, but they're readier to join the Iscariot family than believe. Do they have the resolve to go down this hellish path for the sake of the greater good? This is it, the final test before the pearly gates open for them. It's up to them.

As the story goes, the three do wonderfully. Maxwell is the greatest gain for Iscariot, despite not having the qualities of being a hunter, that made the experiment a success. Maxwell makes up for Yumiko and Heinkel winding up mundane agents, clear in how Maxwell scaled ranks to become Iscariot's new guiding star.

Anderson forbade Yumiko and Heinkel as participants in the Regenerator Trials until it was do or die for the Vatican. Crisis or not, Anderson will be damned before they let Anderson care so deeply, work so hard on them, only for them to die young in agonizing pain for no reason. Anderson will fight it, he swears to the sacred elites, and they quiver with fear knowing better than to take a threat lightly from The Judas Priest with new Judases of his own.

It takes decades but in the end, Iscariot gets what they wanted. Heinkel survives the Trials and is another Regenerator the Vatican prayed for with crimson palms.