#also I’m still working on the other art of bill

[rainbow-beanie]

“Why can’t you see what I see?”

Finally drew little baby billy! Featuring his mom in tv static. Based off one of bill’s fears being of tv static from thisisnotawebsitedotcom’s many secret messages, next to “art therapy note: the only thing he draws are red and blue triangles.”

And based off his mom’s color off of @ckret2 ‘s version of scalene. Even though at this point in time she hasn’t been introduced yet

[citricacidprince]

Could you draw that "I trust you" scene with Mabel and Stan but with the relativity AU? (The stan twins and pine twins swap ages au)

OF COURSE, I WILL GLADLY DRAW THEM!!! 💥💥💥

I’m gonna post a long winded thesis about my thoughts on this AU, my take on the AU, and two additional arts under the cut because ooooh boy it’s a tad bit long lol. Also, please please forgive the formatting, I’m writing this all on the fly and it’s extremely disjointed, sorry- 💥

I know there’s the ‘canon’ Relativity AU designs and character dynamics, however I don’t really like them that much ngl. I feel like it mostly just ends up with ‘Mabel and Dipper get switched with Stan and Ford with no nuances once so ever’ and that BLOWS!!! There’s so much potential there and no one is playing with it!! YOU GUYS DON’T EVEN HAVE MABEL PRETENDING TO BE DIPPER, WHATS THE POINT????

Not only that but I feel like making Dipper and Mabel’s dynamic just Ford and Stan’s when they’re adults is a HUGE simplification of their characters. Like, Mabel and Dipper fight, but they don’t fight like Stan and Ford, they’re not as hard headed and stubborn. Mabel would commit some crimes yes, but I don’t believe she would get into some of the heavy shit Stan had in his past. I refuse to believe Mr. Dipper ‘Undiagnosed Anxiety Disorder’ Pines would fall for Bill’s flattery as easily as Ford did.

The Pines Twins are very different from the Mystery Twins. Mabel and Dipper didn’t grow up with a father constantly comparing the two and pinning them against each other, outright telling one kid they’ll always be a failure while the other is going to have the burden of making their family rich. They never had that tension. They wouldn’t be walking on eggshells around eachother as adults.

I know that makes the concept sound boring to some, ‘Where’s the fun in the AU if you take away the sibling fighting’. You cowards, you can still have it, young Stan and Ford are RIGHT THERE. During the second half of the show when Dipper comes back through the portal, instead of having the older set of twins, something that doesn’t make sense with their characters, have a building tension that’s going to explode soon and keep it between Stan and Ford, don’t take it away from them. If anything, I think taking away the resentment and anger growing between the two and giving it to Mabel and Dipped is a butchering of all the characters.

Sure that means some of the episodes would have to change or be completely erased, but that’s fine!!! Make up some new ones!!! Get silly with it!!!

Mabel and Dipper talk about feelings, Stan and Ford don’t. Mabel and Dipper can’t stay mad at each other, Stan and Ford will try and stay mad for decades because being angry is easier than being upset.

In my idea of this AU that fight at the end of Weirdmageddon HAS to be between Stan and Ford, and Stan HAS to still be the one getting his memories erased.

💥 Post Not-What-He-Seems Relativity AU Rambling Below 💥

Dipper is a paranoid man, fool him once you’re never going to fool him again. He would never in a million years ever work with Bill again. Ford however is an extremely lonely child, both he and his brother are desperate for any type of positive attention. I think Bill would see him as a potential protege, especially since Ford is a ‘freak’ like he is and the kid is extremely smart for his age. He’s malleable, Bill probably thinks he could shape him uo to be the perfect lackey.

Ford, being the lonely kid he is, probably does fall for the praise initially. He craves attention and Bill pushes all the right buttons and says all the right words, tries and gains his trust even if time has proven again and again that he shouldn’t be trusting the demon.

The tension between the Stan Twins would grow after Grunkle Dipper comes back because Ford is upset that Stan didn’t listen to him (even if it was for the best that he did) and that Grunkle Dipper forgave Graunty Mabel so easily because if Ford was in those shoes he wouldn’t have. It grows more and more as Ford becomes distant and Stan tries to connect with his brother to no avail. Which, of course, comes to a boiling point when Ford says he’s going to stay in Gravity Falls and learn under Grunkle Dipper. Stan is rightfully upset. He can’t go back to New Jersey by himself. It’s always just been the two of them, he needed Ford, he couldn’t handle school or their father by himself. He can’t be alone.

Unlike Mabel who just wanted one more day of summer, Stan wishes that he wouldn’t be alone, which indirectly causes Weirdmaggendon.

Stan’s prison bubble would probably be a fake New Jersey-esc town full of a bunch of little Stans running around. Town O’ Stan. A place where no Stan is left behind.

Ford says some nice words to Stan there to get him outta there but there is still this intense tension between the two.

During the Cipher Wheel Ford is the one who tackles Stan. The two fight, whining out hurtful words neither of them mean and only stop when Bill shows up and captures them. Graunty Mabel and Grunkle Dipper run off and distract Cipher in hopes that they can keep the attention on themselves long enough that their great nephews could come up with a plan to escape.

The younger twins don’t find a way out and instead, finally, have an actual talk about their feelings, one that definitely ends up in tears as the two talk about the pressure that’s put on them or how worthless they feel. After that the boys get a rush of determination to escape when Stanley has a plan. Ford immediately hates the plan but Stan insists that they do it, in his own words, ‘Let me prove I can do something right for once.’

When Bill comes back and threatens to kill either Mabel or Dipper just for the hell of it, Ford calls out that he’d like to make a deal.

He wants to work with Bill, let Bill into his mind willingly. Bill immediately jumps on that offer. Ford is a promising young kid, perfect henchmaniac potential, not to mention it would absolutely devastate Dipper is his great nephew willingly turned to Bill’s side.

He goes into Ford’s head, revealing Stanley just in time to reveal that he was trapped, panicking as he was erased with a swift left-hook along with a kid who was happy to prove he was good for something after all.

Everyone was devastated after Weirdmaggedon of course, a child had his mind completely wiped. Stanford took it the worst, he just managed to finally break down those words that others built in his head, that he was too good for Stanley or that he didn’t need a knucklehead like him dumbing down his brain, and now his brother was gone. Just like that.

We all know what happens after this, Stan gets his memory back, everyone celebrates and the Stan twins are sent home, promising each other that they’ll never let anyone try and tear them apart ever again. Dipper and Mabel stay at the shack, after all, all they could ever want is there, where else could they possibly go?

Sorry this was… extremely rambly and long, I am extremely tired and can’t think straight I have a bunch more ideas and concepts so if anyone’s desperately wants to hear them just ask I guess, sorry you read this dumb of ass essay haha 💥

[myllui]

I shifted

I shifted to my nana dr for about six months (even though only six seconds have passed here, since I set the time so that one month in the dr equals one second in this reality). I'm still a little confused from coming back, but overall, I feel good.

This dr isn’t my main one but could become my main one. Before I share some details, I want to clarify that this DR doesn't follow the anime’s storyline. For example, that asshole Takumi will never meet Hachi. I'll try to keep it brief, as I don't like talking too much about my dr after all, it is real life .

I live about 15 minutes away from Hachi and Nana’s apartment, in a suburb of Tokyo. I work at a bakery and also do art. Living in Tokyo between 1998 and 1999 is a mix of nostalgia and surreal. It's hard to describe precisely. I’ve also learned to live without modern smartphones, using those old brick phones with buttons instead. This has taught me to live more in the moment, without the constant need to check social media or waste hours scrolling through TikTok, aimlessly losing time.

In this dr, I’m learning to be more independent. Thanks also to my experiences in my Kpop drs, I've learned to manage an apartment on my own here: I do the laundry, cook, manage my budget, pay bills, and work in the bakery. Oh, and I'm also studying to get my driver's license.

I’ve also started learning to play the guitar, especially thanks to Nana. Playing has always been a huge dream of mine, but I never had the chance to do it in this reality. Once, I even got emotional with joy while holding the guitar in my hands, because it’s something I’ve always loved doing.

My relationship with Hachi and Nana is really great.

Hachi is very close to me; she often texts to ask how I’m doing, how work is going, and invites me to hang out on weekends or go to the pub together. I love going out with her because she’s unashamed of anything or anyone, and with her, I never feel judged. She also has a great sense of style. Even though colorful clothes aren’t really my thing, she’s helped me find a style that suits me. I must admit, though, that she requires a lot of patience since she’s a bit naive.

As for Nana Osaki, I really love her a lot. She’s given me so much advice on some of my personal concerns, and she’s the kind of person who could listen to you for hours. She shows her affection through sarcastic jokes. We share the same taste in music. It took a little while for her to fully trust me and start confiding in me, but I understand her, and our bond has grown over time.

I’m still getting to know Shin and Nobu. Shin is very reserved, but I feel like we’ll become great friends. Nobu, on the other hand, has already opened up, and we’ve quickly become close.

Next time I shift, I’ll come back with a suitcase full of Vivienne Westwood clothes, necklaces, and rings!

[boringbones]

A Letter to Talented Creators

I've been part of this community for 20 years, watching artists rise, fall, leave for new journeys, or simply stop playing or creating. We've received amazing content, but we've also missed out on much.

I wonder how many of these artists could still be creating extraordinary content if they had the support of their communities. It’s common to encounter cliques of creators who vilify anyone considering making a living doing what they love. They’ll use every trick to convince you that not only do you NOT deserve it, but that pursuing it somehow taints you.

With every new friend and artist I meet, my first advice is always: FIND a way to monetize what you do. I believe that if you have the chance to make a living doing what you love, you gain MORE TIME to do what you're great at and, especially, what others love.

Besides, you don’t need everyone’s support—just those who, like me and many other players, are willing to contribute to ensure you have the time you need to keep producing and delivering something only you can create. There are ideas that haven’t been thought of and projects that haven’t been started. Life brings unexpected situations, and we never truly know what goes on behind the scenes for each person who shares their art with the world.

Let me tell you, people are willing to support you. In reality, there are more people willing to support a creator than those who aren't. The difference is that those who are willing don’t make as much noise, but they genuinely enjoy helping an artist who continually exceeds expectations.

I know some people think, “If I make money from this, I’ll have to commit to a level I’m not willing to.” And if that’s the case, that’s fine. You don’t have to if you don’t want to. However, I see this commitment as something positive, but I respect those who disagree. As an artist, you want a certain level of "healthy" pressure. After all, art requires it—not too much pressure, but not too little, either.

Criquette, for instance, is one of the best creators for The Sims 2 in my view. He made incredible things that nearly every player has used. He was ambitious on a level I’ve rarely seen. But he’s been inactive for years. I wonder how much more he could have created if he’d been able to monetize his work—cover household bills, put food in the fridge, or handle basic expenses. How much more time he might have had to create and share? How many brilliant things we could have today in The Sims if he were still here? But he wasn’t monetized, and maybe he was never interested in it, and that’s okay!

For every artist who monetizes, there are many who prefer to do it as a hobby. And that’s wonderful. There are many runners who do it for well-being, pleasure, social connections, or the benefits it brings to life. However, there are those who run professionally. They commit to a level an “amateur” NEVER would. They undergo training that a casual or hobbyist runner would NEVER endure. They maintain diets that others would NEVER tolerate. But the fact that some monetize running and turn it into a career doesn’t prevent others from running for love, fun, or enjoyment.

So, what I’m trying to say is: it’s all okay. If you believe monetizing your talent would give you more QUALITY time to sit and produce what you love, give you the chance to take someone you love to a special restaurant simply because you can, or allow you to be BETTER at what you do because it frees you from worrying about adult responsibilities—then do it!

Be prepared for the noise others will make, but remember that those people aren’t your target audience. Even if they make noise, they don’t consume what you produce. And if they do, they might do so in secret—because attacking a creator and consuming that creator’s work is contradictory. But believe me, there’s often more inconsistency than consistency in this world. And that’s okay!

Remember that on the other side, there are many kind people who don’t mind contributing a small, medium, or even significant amount to support a creator they love, appreciate, and benefit from. Keep this in mind when considering monetization, no matter which version of The Sims you create for. If there’s even one person willing to support you, that’s all you need to start.

I am sure that with this, you’ll have more time, more quality of life, more joy, and a healthy commitment to push yourself in a positive way to give back to your audience for the support and love they have for what you create.

If I have time to create and contribute today, it’s because of these people. They’ve changed my life, shown me that I have the chance to live the life I genuinely want for myself rather than the life circumstances might have dictated. They show me daily that I can LOVE what I do and make a living from it, and that monetizing it doesn’t take away my love for it—instead, it enhances it. I hope you consider my words.

In the end, remember this phrase: “Beyond daily life and what others think of you, what do you think of yourself?” Your value is something only you define. People will respect you to the extent that you respect yourself. If anyone says you don’t have a place “here,” remember, we’re always speaking about ourselves.

We can only give to others what we have, what we are. Trust in your talent and find a way to monetize it, whatever it may be���whether it’s making jarred cakes, selling pudding door-to-door, or creating content for The Sims. I’ve done all these things, and if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that our circumstances change according to our sense of worth. When we recognize that every job has value and that there’s nothing wrong with making a living if you’re providing benefits to others with what you have to offer... So follow your heart. Take risks, give it your all, and be the artist you want to be, because there are people ready to support you. You deserve it, and you will succeed. I hope this letter reminds you of your worth.

Never forget that each of your creations is a unique expression, something only you can bring to the world. May that value and uniqueness always guide you and give you the confidence to keep doing what you love.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

Would I be the asshole if I refused to pay my phone bill?

📱🧾♿️ <- To recognize my post for later :)

The title is probably already a bit of a red flag, but I genuinely didn’t know how else to word it…

For context: I am a disabled, chronically and mentally ill trans guy who recently turned 20. I haven’t left home yet for a lot of reasons, some being that my parents promised to let me live rent-free so long as I was in college (which I am, just not currently for the summer) as well as the fact that they really haven’t raised me to be very independent and rely solely on them (which is honestly a whole other can of worms), but primarily because of my disability. It isn’t safe for me to live on my own, as I faint commonly, cannot stand up for more than maybe fifteen minutes at a time roughly, and sometimes am unable to eat for long periods of time due to debilitating nausea which leads to weakness. I also have severe chronic pain in my limbs and gut, something I’ve had most of my life, while my chronic illness I’ve only had for about a year and a half now and am still struggling to adjust to.

Because of my disability, I also can’t work a traditional job. I offer art commissions online, because I’m very passionate about art and it’s one of the few things I’m good at, and I haul in a decent amount, but certainly not enough to live off of. I make enough to set aside some good savings (I’m currently saving for a wheelchair, as that might grant me more freedom and the potential to get a job at least for the summer) while also indulging myself in buying the occasional fatty treat (I’m very underweight so that’s not an issue, and I was raised essentially in an almond mom household all my life, so this form of eating is really the only sense of control I have over my life, as I’m fully dependent on my parents elsewise).

The issue has come upon relatively recently. I feel like a huge entitled brat for it as well, and if others believe the same, I sincerely don’t blame you.

My mom sat me down the other day and said that she expected me to start paying at least one bill. She offered my cheapest bill (which would be for my phone; my parents bought it, and it’s theirs, they’re just letting me use it as my own.. I don’t own a whole lot of “my” items myself) and asked what I thought about that. I was fully honest with her: if I had a steady stream of income, I wouldn’t hesitate to offer to pay for all of my bills, but with the way it stands, I just don’t make enough month-to-month to regularly afford the bill. I also do my commissions through my phone, so if I could afford the bill, my phone would be turned off, and I’d be unable to continue.

My mom got very upset and started talking to me like a child (though she really has every right to, honestly, and I know that). She went on a very long rant about teaching me responsibility, and how I can’t rely on my parents forever, and that I need to grow up at some point… All things that I fully agree with. I sincerely want to! I want nothing more than to be fully independent. But the way it stands, my parents cover my entire medical bills and they pay for my meds… And I just don’t make enough to survive on my own, and I can just barely afford a meal or two from a sandwich shop I enjoy twice a month to keep my sanity in check because I’m usually bedbound.

I tried explaining to her that I would if I could, sincerely, and that I’m not trying to be a leech or lazy, but she wasn’t having it. She just scolded me and said that if I can afford to eat out every month, then I can afford the phone bill. But again, with the way things are, I don’t think I’d be able to do it every month without tapping into my savings, which again, is for my wheelchair so I can regain some sense of freedom for myself. I’m seriously debating just telling her no straight out, but I don’t know what the aftermath might look like…

So, sincerely: Am I in the wrong here? Should I just swallow my protests and cough up the money somehow? I really don’t know and would love an outside perspective.

[aliensubstance-011]

Fiddlestan AU!!

AU where Ford gets into West Coast Tech, but Stan manages to (somehow) get into Backupsmore and gets roomed with Fiddleford! 

Stan was kicked out after Ford left (because if his brother was ready to leave home, so was Stan). Stan lived in his car & the public libraries he found (all his fake IDs are just fake Library Cards lmao. nerd). Stan also discovered he was queer (did drag for the prize money, then went OH. All these queens are treating me like this because I'm a baby queer. That makes sense. Guess I’m doing guys now.).

I like to think that Stan spent a year or two studying up after Ford left so when he gets in Fiddleford is in his second or third year! This does result in a “I'm your new roommate. You first year?” and Fiddleford going “What in tarnation... I'm THIRD year? How did we end up in the same dorm????”

At first they HATE each other- Fiddleford thinks Stan is reckless, and doesn’t know what he’s doing there, and that he’s kind of stupid, while Stan thinks Fiddleford is some stuck-up hippie who formed an opinion on Stan too quickly (he did). Once they do start talking they have a very quick ‘oh you’re actually not that bad’ moment. Fiddleford leaves before Stan, obviously, but they keep in close contact even after Fiddleford moves in with Emma-Mae. 

Stan and Ford have a huge argument about Ford not needing Stan anymore. Cue: “Of course I need you, you're my brother” “WELL YOU DON'T ACT LIKE IT”, which is another reason that Stan and Fiddleford leave together. Not long after this, around Stan’s graduation,  Fiddleford has a 'I'm gay and don't love my wife' moment, and Stan casually suggests running away, just driving (maybe something a little nostalgic in it, maybe when Stan looks back at his car he feels like he can hear a distant New Jersey shore). The next day Fiddleford shows up with a duffle bag of things, and Stan realises Fiddleford took him seriously. That he’s willing to run away with him, even if it’s not on a boat, that Fiddleford wants to. Stan gets very, very close to realising he’s in love that day. 

They run away after Stan’s graduation and just drive until they get to Gravity Falls! They set up shop there, with Fiddleford doing auto repairs (and making inventions on the side). Fiddleford confesses to Stan when they’re staying in a motel- he thinks Stan is asleep, so he just says that he thinks he’s in love with him, while Stan is laying wide awake in the bed next to him. Stan spends the next few days Freaking The Fuck Out while Fiddleford doesn’t acknowledge what he said. Stan thinks Fiddleford knew he was awake, so when he confesses back he says something along the lines of “I think I’m in love with you, too” and Fiddleford bluescreens.

Just General HCs:

Stan falls first, but doesn't realise until Fiddleford confesses.

Ford is still self centred but doesn't hate Stan. Stan resents Ford for not doing anything when he was kicked out, and a little bit for leaving him. He understands, though, why stay with your good for nothing brother when you have dreams across the country to fulfil? 

Fiddleford is Repressed Gay until he confesses his Awful Secret to Stan who's just like....”okay?”. He does get to the point of marrying Emma-mae, before he confesses to Stan. 

I don't quite know what Stan will be doing, both in Backupsmore and once they move to Gravity Falls. I like a little bit about him either doing Art or Law, but I feel as though he’s not willing nor smart enough (respectively) for either one.

Stan IS smart, don’t get me wrong, he just needs it to be something ‘physical’ that he can interact with. Fiddleford helps a lot with this (having gotten a lot of hands-on work while he was on the farm). 

I think eventually Ford does end up in Gravity Falls too, but by this point he’s distanced himself from everyone not because of Bill, but because of his own hubris. 

Because of Stan and Fiddleford being queer, I don’t think Dipper and Mabel would be allowed to visit them until their parents have no other choice- though they do hear a lot about their Grunkles and see them from time to time. 

If I did include a Bill/main timeline ish plot it’d be Fiddleford who gets tricked- maybe after Ford gets to Gravity Falls, and Bill offers a way to keep Stan happy/repair his relationship with Ford (maybe Fiddleford thinks Stan is going to run away- just without him this time. He knows Stan would never, but he could.) 

I’d probably include a B-plot where Stan thinks Fiddleford will cheat on him with Ford- they click immediately and so much better, Ford is so much smarter, he’s the better twin, because insecure Stan is my favourite thing ever. Just a small detail, but I think that Fiddleford is a lot more confident and stable with Stan, mainly because Stan has encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone so often, and has proved time and time again that all Fiddleford has to do is ask and Stan is right there to catch him.

I'm still not sure what Stan should do, so if anyone has any suggestions, let me know! That and drawing requests god let me draw them PLEASE.

[dcwildwestfest]

Dean Winchester’s Way

By blackhorsedances | @blackhorsedances Art by witchyworm | @witchy-worm

Coming to AO3 on 04-15-25

Rated Explicit | 21,800 words | No Archive Warnings Apply

Dean Winchester is a top-notch horse trainer. He’s worked on the family horse ranch since he was big enough to sit a horse. The people around town smile fondly at his “little ways” like eating the same breakfast at Missouri’s diner, only paying cash, having his ride-or-die bestie Charlie do his books and pay the bills. Oh, and he doesn’t answer text messages: “Just call me, dammit.” Sam criticizes him, but he just shrugs and says “if it ain’t broke, don’t break it.”  Cas Novak has a Ph.D. in Speech/Language Pathology, and has spent nine months of his sabbatical year writing his “publish or perish” book. Still reeling from a nasty divorce that raked up his shameful past, Cas is looking for a peaceful, quiet place to edit and revise his book, and maybe heal old wounds. A student from one of his online seminars, Eileen Leahy-Winchester, offers her brother-in-law Dean’s cabin, because it’s a “really peaceful place, Cas.” As Dean and Cas grow closer, Cas begins to suspect that Dean’s “little ways” may be hiding a painful secret. In turn, Dean suspects that the professor may have a big secret of his own. When a dangerous storm threatens Dean’s most cherished horse, his secret is exposed. But can Cas overcome his own shame to help Dean, and will Dean let him?

[Keep reading for a sneak preview!]

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” he interrupts glibly, “I heard my name.” In his best ‘coping at a faculty gathering’ manner, he bypasses the much taller (and glowering) Sam Winchester, and approaches the person that must be Sam’s brother Dean. Dean Winchester, the gorgeous man that stopped his breath and tugged at his heart (and other parts of him). Damnit. He wills himself to be professional.

“Hello, Dean. You are Dean Winchester, aren’t you?” He waits for Dean’s nod, and continues. “I’m Dr. Castiel Novak, but I’d be honored if you’d call me Cas. I really appreciate you leasing the cabin to me for the summer. I think it’s amazing that you’ve gone out of your way to make every possible accommodation a person might need.”

He holds out his hand and Dean takes it. “Yeah, okay, hiya Cas. It’s, uh, nice to meet ya. Sorry about assuming–”

“You don’t need to apologize to me. I appreciate your efforts, I promise. Although a horse named Link? Is that like Link from Zelda, or is it like the Missing Link?” Cas dissembles, not only because Dean’s face is still flushed, but also because the feel of Dean’s hand clasped with his has restarted the fire in his lower belly. He’s not sure that his own face isn’t as flushed as Dean’s. 

“Oh, heh, neither.” Dean chuckles, but his eyes are locked on Cas’. “I got the horse from a rescue. He’d been used to pull this old guy’s car–something like a 1970 Lincoln Continental, if I remember right–around until the guy died, I guess. So they just called him Link.” Cas sees a twinkle in Dean’s eye, and there’s that tongue peeking through those plush lips. Oh, no. Is Dean Winchester flirting with him?

“You’re lying to me right now, Dean Winchester.” And I’m playing with fire, Cas thinks, because I’m flirting right back.

“No,” Dean says, “Yes, but no. I do have a horse named Link–”

[random-blurbs]

a/n: i keep on seeing edits of when Mark was a bad guy and he’s just so 😋 - also costume design is up to yall didn’t wanna ruin the immersion

<<<part 1 Part 3 >>>

Twirling around you awed at yourself as you took in your figure with the new outfit. It wasn’t a difficult suit necessarily that you asked for but still it was impressive how quickly Arc took care of it. You felt a little bad as you really wanted to find the perfect one you can fight in and look good while you’re at it. Well you think it’s fast for this nice quality suit after a month and a half of back and forth.

“How do you feel about it?” You asked excitedly at Mark as you faced his way who was lying on your bed comfortably. He wore his suit simply without his mask as you see his eyes rake over your costume. “I-it looks really nice. It suits you.” He confirmed your happy thoughts as you tried to memorize every feature of the costume. Wondering if you should put together a thank you basket for Arc by how accommodating he was with you during the entire process. “What should I give Arc as a thank you?” You ask barely knowing anything about the man as you were always there just for the costume making it quick and efficient. Mark stifled a chuckle hearing your mistake again that he refuses to correct letting Art in on it to see how long it lasts.

“Don’t ruin the costume too much, and maybe a pack of beers?” You pouted at the shitty idea of gifts but that’s the best you can do for now until you actually get to know the man. So riding off of Mark’s idea is all you can settle for not knowing what brand will be the best one for him. “So we going to train some more? Or are you just going to laze off on my bed?” You ask plopping at the end of the bed eyeing Mark curiously. He quickly took his eyes away from you looking over at girlfriend’s side instead. “Um yeah! If anything we-.” Cut off by the teleporting man that is now in the middle of the room you sit up expectantly as he seemed disheveled. He raised a brow at the two of you finding it confusing why you both were suited up on your bed but he accepted the perfect timing. “Mark we got some unknown beings at the coordinates I sent you. We want you to see if they’re friendly or not and see if that training has been working out.”

“Yes! I can test out the new suit!” You said excitedly as you looked over to Mark who seemed conflicted. “Don’t you think it’s too soon? We don’t know if they’re dangerous or not.” Surprised by his words you gave him a look of disbelief as you went through all the training sessions you’ve been having with him. “You said I’m getting better! That I can work with you what the hell!” You said angrily as he’s bringing this up in front of Cecile. You’ve been wanting to make do with your deal with him as you spent money on the card with not much care exactly so you have to get on the field as soon as possible. Before they see the card bill at least.

“I just don’t want to be distracted during the fight! I can’t comfortably go out there knowing that something can happen!” You scoffed at his weak excuse refusing to believe that’s it. He always complimented your improvement every session and who would say that just because. “Cecil send me the coordinates, I’m going either way.” He was quick to agree as you hear your phone ding in response making Mark groan as he put on his mask hiding his stressed expression. “Y/N please. Just not this mission on the next one you can go.” You shook your head wanting to get it over with and officially put yourself on the map within the other superheroes. How many times will Mark pull this card? You have to snip it in the bud before it gets to be too much.

“Mark she can make her own choices, and from the updates she’s improved significantly.” Cecile encouraged as you cast him a grateful glance, thankful someone isn’t treating you like a gentle object. “Y’know it’s not about that.” Mark countered as he seemed pissed by his words. Rolling your eyes you opened the coordinates as you opened the window not wanting to be part of their little pissy fight. “Whatever, Mark are you going to come or not?” Not wanting to ruin the mood even more, he quickly flew out the window picking you up alongside him. “What the-!” Confused by his arms being around you he grunted as he felt you move more than usual. “Stop moving if you actually wanna get there alive.” Startled by the tone that Mark has with you it pissed you have even further as you felt your heartbeat quicken in response.

“Who the hell do you think you are?” You say accusingly as you hear Mark groan not wanting to get into a fight with you. Anything but that. “Stop acting like you’re my boyfriend or some savior Mark! I don’t need that from you and you know it!” Wanting to toe the line between you two as those sleepless nights with Amber reached your memories. She truly did love Mark. But her complaints of him never being on time, always off doing something, always feeling like he’s lying, it’s getting to her. And some of those things are because of you. That guilt of lying to a friend is a lot to hold. “I never said I wanted to be your boyfriend! I just want to help you so let me!” Hitting his shoulders making him stagger in the air he was quick to hold you tighter worried that you’ll somehow leave his grip.

“I’m not some charity case, all I want is a friend and you’re being a bad one with how you embarrassed me in front of Cecile.” You shout as you see Mark’s face scrunch up in desperation as he tries to explain his side of the story. “Embarrassed? I never did that! I’ve told him so much good things about you!”

“But right there did you? You know I’m perfectly capable of defending myself, and you made it seem as if I’m some weak chick who can’t take care of herself!” You don’t want to explain every detail to Mark as it made your heart sting at his former words. Some logical part of yourself knew Mark didn’t mean it in anyway to demean you but you can’t help but feel so. You loved Mark as a friend but seeing that same friend doubt your skills in front of a superior. It left a bad taste.

“Y/N I know more than anyone your skills in defense are something that can’t be compared to anyone in the field right now.” You sadly look at him as his words stung more than easing the pain and embarrassment you felt. “Then why didn’t you say that?” You already had so much taken from you, the least that they can give you is credit for your powers. As you studied the superhero world you knew there was so many talented people but some part of yourself believed that you can do more.

“We’re here.” Letting your feet touch the ground you examined the rocky terrain. It was high winds with a dust storm being built up slowly around you. “Cecile says they went underground.” Mark warned as you see him touch his earpiece talking to Cecile. In high alert you took careful steps as you felt the rocks underneath poke out at you. Waiting for anybody to do the first move you tried fixing your breathing as you realize the nerves are starting to get to you. “Can you detect- Y/N!” Mark’s words were caught off as a blur of the light zoomed right towards you as he tried getting to you before stunning you both. Mark was shocked by your quick actions as he sees the dagger floating in the air right before it had pierced your heart. Your uneven breathing didn’t go past Mark’s ears as he sees you realize how quick everything can change in a moment’s fight. “Good job.” Not waiting for a response he saw a figure in the distance making him flying towards it, deciding to show you the trust he has in you as he left.

You don’t think you’ll ever admit to Mark how you almost shit yourself. The movement was so fast. The thought of dying right here terrified you. Floating up you didn’t want to settle yourself in a ground fight if you can as you can do more from above. Seeing Mark in the distance as he punched the figure that probably threw the dagger your eyes were quickly taken away from him as you felt something wrap around your leg. “Shit!” Putting up your hand you tried making the huge arm go down to the floor as you see a bigger body emerge from the rocks. “What the fuck…” You let out a pained groan as the hold on your leg tightened not able to fly out of it easily. “I’m sorry if you’re friendly but this hurts!” Before the monster can say anything you put your hands up towards the bend of its elbow focusing all your energy into it going downwards. You hear a sickening crack come out of it as it releases you from its grip with a shrilling shriek. Flying away from it you kept a good distance as you see it cradle its arm in pain eyeing you with a newfound anger. “You can fly?” Mark asked confused and hurt that you kept this from him.

“Dude you always picked me up every time.”

“Still you didn’t say anything!”

“I’m not arguing with you on this! Can we take care of this thing?” You ask pointing at the monster who is obviously charging up. You see a passed out person in Mark’s arm as you pointed at the still breathing figure. “What he do?”

Mark was confused by who it was as well as you tried keeping the monster in front of you in place bringing it to its knees as your hands were outstretched with slowly closing hands. “He just threw a bunch of explosives and had these rock minions.” Shrugging your shoulders at the clean first mission you motioned towards the rock monster in front of you who was still trying to fight out of your grasp. “What does Cecile want us to do with it?”

Mark was talking to Cecile through the ear piece as you felt a shiver go up your spine. Looking around there was something in your gut telling you there was something more. “What do you mean it wasn’t them?” Mark’s words left you startled as you examine the rock. You could’ve sworn a superhero fought this type of monster before and Cecile had mentioned something new.

You never had the fastest reaction speed but its like your body knew. It knew there was something coming and that you needed to protect Mark. You changed your position of your hand to now be towards his unsuspecting back. The monster now free from one of your hands tried rushing forward now making Mark look at you but it was too late as you sent him flying back. “What th-.” Something bright from above had you looking up scared of the actual being that had you guys out here, it was something entirely new. The air was knocked out of you as you realized there was a pair of hands around your throat. You felt the rock monster underneath you as you let out a yell of pain as you realize this thing was bringing you down further in the ground. Landing with a painful thud you can’t even recognize your surroundings before there’s someone straddling your hips. Their hands found your neck easily as you grabbed their arm trying to get away from them pushing them back as they barely moved even with using your powers. How the hell are they going against it?

As you gasped for air it was a split-second choice you don’t regret as you jab your finger into the man’s eyes trying to shove it in deeper as you hear it squish come out with spurts of blood. The man yelled as he pulled away from your grip letting you lay there to catch your breath. Your hand instinctively went to your throat as you took in big gulps of air terrified that it was gone for even a few seconds. You felt the man’s warm blood coat your throat now as you sat up seeing him stumble back as he gripped his face in pain.

Not giving him a chance to fly at you, you raised your hands bringing him to the floor. You hear him yell as you continue putting pressure seeing the excessive weight you have on him. You don’t know what you’re doing. You don’t know if Cecile wants him alive or not. But as you hear the man yell out in pain you know you don’t have choice if he makes a wrong move. “What do you want? I don’t want to hurt you anymore if you tell me why you’re here.” You tried to say confidently easing some of the weight to let air enter his lungs freely so he can actually hold a conversation with you. The man chuckled as you see the closed eye as his other looked at you with no actual emotion. He looks like a doll.

“There was no point in sparing me.” You felt another presence as you flew backwards hearing the sound of an impact in front of you was covered with excessive dust blinding you for a second. Coughing you tried seeing through the dust as you kept your hands up for the guy you tried looking around as the dust settled. He was still on the floor as he let out a laugh weirding you out as villains were always insane. Where the hell is Mark?!

A flurry of movements caught your attention making you let go of your hold on the man and put yours hands up defensively. Connecting with you roughly you got thrown back to the rocky wall feeling the jabs of the stone on your back. Sliding down you try to gather yourself as you hear a ringing in your head now. You know this isn’t good you need to get up. But right in front of you, you can see it. Your own blood falling onto your lap as your hand weakly touched your head. Feeling the blood seep right onto it as you let your hand fall beside you limply. Shit.

Hearing movement you put your hand up stopping the figure from moving closer. But as your breathing quickened you feel one of your eyes be covered by the blood seeping down onto your face, it was child’s play for the person in front of you. “Where are you!” You finally hear Mark’s tired yell come from above making you think these people purposely separated you. It was just obvious and you fell for it. Before you can respond your weakened body faltered letting the person quickly come to your side. And grabbing your arm snapped it with no wasted time making you let out a painful wail trying to get away from the person. Tears pricked your eyes as the pain traveled all over your body as the person let go.

It was planned. Even through your tears and your noises of pain you realized it was a lure. “Get away!” You were able to yell out as the women knocked the air out of you making you double over to the floor feeling the bile trying to come out. It was too quick for your eyes as you see a speck of yellow zip right past you towards the woman. Trying to stay awake as you wiped the blood away from your eyes you hear grunts of pain and some words as you can barely make them out. With heavy heaves you tried crawling to where all the noise is as you can only start to hear yourself now. The way the rock underneath your hands leave a stinging pain, adding onto the already huge feeling. And there you see Mark punching someone into the ground as blood was sprawled everywhere. He was trying his hardest to fight back but obvious from his costume something up there had him heavily occupied. The man you took the eye from was back into the fight as you see a dark liquid shoot out of his hand hardening when landing on whatever they wanted. He was trying to put up a fight but you can see Mark struggling. You see his lips move as the woman had a smile filled with malice.

This was unfair. You’re practically out of the fight - but you know now that these people aren’t capable of getting along with those on Earth. And it’s your job to protect them and give Mark a winning chance. Sticking your unbroken hand you directed towards the man who was significantly weaker than the woman. And without mercy closed your fist seeing him explode downwards as blood seeped into the cracks and pieces of meat decorating the cave system. You don’t think you’ve seen true anger until you saw that woman’s face as you saw Mark in agape at what just happened. You gave her a weak grin taunting her which Mark took advantage of swiftly throwing a punch sending her flying.

Coughing you finally notice the blood that came along with it making you sit up to try to see what was going on. Stumbling with every step you tried to not look at the mess you made. It felt like you were falling forward shutting your eyes as your body felt way too weak to hold yourself up, you were happy that you felt the familiar safe arms you’ve been in before. “Oh Mark.” You turned to him looking him up and down seeing his costume with rips and blood smeared on it. Already seeing the bruises on his face and body forming, and you know you’re not any better. He seemed used to it as he held onto you not wanting to mess up anything about you. “Why did you do it?” You were tired. You just wanted to rest up, and get your arm fixed.

“What do you mean?” You ask confused by Mark’s solemn tone as you felt his grip on your good arm tighten but still making you wince. Was he mad at you for coming and ended up taking a good beating instead of handing it to them? He didn’t look any better so it can’t be that. “Why did you kill him?” Finally understanding you can barely glance at the mess you created which he saw. If you can’t bear to see what you did, why would you do it? He didn’t want to have this feeling towards you. But his mother raised him to never kill no matter what. Everyone has lives, loved ones, something to live for. We have no right to take that away. “He was going to kill you Mark, I did what I had to, to keep all of us safe!”

He didn’t want to accept that thought process. He didn’t even think to talk about this during training to not just kill. He thought you would’ve known, that no matter what you don’t. “You wanted me to let you die?”

“I wasn’t going to die Y/N! You jumped the gun and did that.” Breathing got more difficult from the pain coursing your body and hearing the disgust that laced with Mark’s voice. You knew he was a good person. But this was too much for you. Were you the one truly in the wrong? The man and woman was going to hurt you two. You did what’s right. “You saved one of them at least-.” You could only slowly turn as you see Cecile staring at the unconscious woman in front of him. “Let’s get ya’ll cleaned up and we can argue later who was in the wrong.” You were going to turn to Mark to ask to talk about it later but with a huge dust storm he left behind he flew right out leaving you with Cecile. As the pit in your stomach grew.

“Don’t take it to heart Y/N. Mark has some strict morales.” Cecile had made it sound like a bad thing which you never wanted to see it as. But you thought Mark understood that some circumstances means the bending of those morales. But you couldn’t be more wrong.

“Guessing from your appearance you didn’t have much of a choice. Don’t lose too much sleep on it.” It was meant to help you. But it did anything but.

—————————-

Even though he said to not lose over sleep, that’s what exactly happened. Amber worried for you would shake you awake as she hears you groaning in pain, tossing and turning. When you wake up with a pool of your own sweat the worrying gets worse. She wants you to go see the doctors but you tried waving off her worry. If anything you worried if you were making her lose sleep as she quickly deterred those thoughts saying she was fine and just wanted to be there for you. She already bought you so many teas and sleeping devices but nothing worked. And you couldn’t tell her the reason why.

As you were taken into the dream world you just remember the sight. Maybe it was your dream filling the gaps as it was a slowed version of the man’s death. Seeing every bit of blood squeezed out of him and seeing pieces of scatter all around the floor. And as you sit quietly in your classes the overthinking occurs. Did the man have a kid? Was that woman his wife? Were they forced to do this? You tried asking Cecile these questions as he just told you to heal up, your bruises barely going away after 3 weeks of the fight. And within those weeks you haven’t crossed paths with Mark that entire time. It didn’t take a genius to know that he was avoiding you. How petty.

Even if you curse him in your thoughts the feeling of him not being there is becoming more apparent. As he usually waited for you after class to take you training or go to a new place in the city to try to trigger your memories. But it’s been silence. You know he’s still around as when you’re in bed Amber comes back with a smile on her face as she tells you the new adventure Mark took her. You were happy for her.

And you can’t help but feel jealous.

But happy more than anything.

You were trying to see it as a blessing in disguise that your friend has more time with her boyfriend. But you lost the only person who understood your world. And that feeling was lonelier than you thought. The amount of times you’ve opened his contact hands hovering over the keyboard was too many times. You felt pathetic. You wanted to apologize. But you wouldn’t mean it. You can’t lie to Mark. You don’t regret killing the man. But the pain that comes with taking a life. You wanted him to know you feel it. That you aren’t this monster who takes lives just because. But what you think you can recall about yourself. Is that you are so freaking prideful. Putting away your phone every time hoping it’ll be him who reaches out. That he decides how he reacted was the one in the wrong. He wasn’t tho. He had every right and that thought pisses you off more than you want it to.

“Y/N?” You were startled at someone you don’t recognize using your name as you notice that the class had already ended. You see a tanned guy looking at you nervously. His eyes darting everywhere but nowhere at the same time clearly not wanting to make eye contact. “Yes?” You say confused as he didn’t even finish his sentence. An awkward silence filled between you two as you see the guy have an internal battle with himself. Letting him take his time you awkwardly packed your bags, standing behind your chair. “I just wanted to see if you would want to grab a coffee with me? So we can get to know each other, and help each other with the class.”

A friend?

Oh my God.

You can’t scare him off. And you acted like you were thinking about his offer when you already know the answer to it. “Yeah why not.” Nailed it.

He seemed to brighten up having a similar to Mark’s face whenever you paid him a compliment. Wanting to slap yourself for even thinking about him you took out your handing it to the guy motioning for his in exchange. It was as if he was surprised by your straightforwardness, scrambling to get his phone out of his pocket before placing it lightly on your hand. Filling in your info you can’t help but take a photo to put as your contact on his phone. “If you don’t mind putting a photo either I like putting a face to the name whenever I text.” You didn’t have to tell him twice as he gave an awkward grin to the camera then putting it as his contact photo. “I should be free later tonight if you want to go.” The heavens were blessing him as you felt the same when he agreed. For two very different reasons.

You waved him goodbye walking out the building feeling the sun hit your face. It will always feel good never feeling too warm or too cold. You wondered if you should bring anything to the first friend meetup. Was it too soon to call it that? Were you a good friend? You hate when you think something you shouldn’t be as your once happy mood was ruined by yourself. You must’ve been a bad friend if no one was concerned about your disappearance. It’s truly as if you never existed.

“My favorite roomie!” Snapping out of your depressive thoughts you see Amber walking up to you with a smile on her face and oh no…

You see Mark slowly behind her fiddling with his hands as his friend next to him looked confused by his change of behavior. “I feel like we don’t run into each other anymore on campus.” Amber pointed out as the next day of moving in you would see each other atleast twice a week. But now it’s like you had disappeared. “Makes me feel you’re avoiding us.” Amber complained teasingly as you stiffen up at the accusation. Nope it was completely Mark doing so. You tried to not look at Mark and focus on Amber as she talked about the class they were just at. “Oh and I was talking to William and he found some sleeping exercises we can try later on.” Amber mentioned motioning to the friend behind her. “Oh you didn’t have to do that.” You said worryingly not realizing how bad Amber must have it if she’s looking for other methods to get you to knock out peacefully. “It’s ok this girl at our old school showed it to me and it’s life changing. All those nightmares - poof gone!”

“Nightmares?” The first word from Mark you heard after weeks of silence he seemed stunned that you were even going through that. Confusing you on how William knows but Mark doesn’t if Amber is talking about it with people. “Um yeah I’ve been having them for last couple weeks.” You clarified making his gaze no longer on you and rather the floor. You weren’t going to push anything. “What about later today we can all do it have a sleepover?”

You were glad you had an excuse not wanting to sleep in the same room as Mark as somehow the silence between the two of you was becoming obvious. “Actually I have plans later on with someone.” It caught everyone’s attention in different ways ignoring Mark’s eyesight as Amber cupped your hands excitedly. “Wow I’m glad you found someone! What does he look like?” You tried explaining to Amber it was just friendly coffee as you pulled out your phone with his photo as his contact which she quickly denied that it was friendly. “Oh wow he’s cute in like a nerdy way.” William chimed in wanting to take a peak. They zoomed into the photo pointing out things about him you haven’t even noticed. “Is that usually your type?”

You don’t know.

Not wanting to get mad at the situation you just nodded your head in agreement. “I think I just lean towards the awkward guys. It’s obvious what they’re feeling half of the time.” You reasoned which they quickly agreed with as they see it with their resident superhero next to them. “But it’s probably a date Y/N.” Amber finished as you thought back to the guys words and with how he was acting. Maybe it was like that.

“He didn’t say it was though.”

“If he didn’t say so then it probably isn’t.” Mark piqued in agreeing with you hastily. Amber gave him a look while William put his two cents in, “Even if it isn’t do you want it to be like that?” Pointing out the most important, which was your own feelings. The three were looking at you expectantly as you tried thinking back to him. You just don’t know enough about him. He is attractive society wise. But that’s all you can see it as.

“I wouldn’t be against him exactly.” You don’t want to overthink it as you waved off whatever they’re about to say. “I’m going to go get ready anyways I don’t wanna be late.”

“What time are you even meeting him.”

“Around 7ish I know it’s barely 4 but still.” You wave them off as Mark stood there with a furrow brow refusing to make eye contact with you. You can’t be hung up on it as you walked back to your room.

——————

You kept on looking back and forth between your mirror, trying to see if you missed anything on your face. Makeup is flawless, hair amazing, a casual date outfit so you don’t seem too excited if maybe it was just a friend hangout. But still it gives you an excuse to go out and look cute. You hear a knock on your window startling you, but that surprise turned into annoyance. Opening your window you see Mark floating outside of it with an awkward small grin. You were glad your dorm room is facing nothing and nobody goes back here. “What are you doing here?”

“Oh um are you about to head out?” He asked nervously as you considered just shutting the window on him. But his awkward self made it really hard as the grin was too hard to ignore. “Yeah I don’t want to be too late.” Trying to cut the conversation short as you reached back to the window wanting to close it. “Wait-!” Reaching out towards the window his hands stopped yours as he leaned in closer to your room. Feeling flustered as it’s been so long he’s been close, he quickly realized the same as he took his hands back embarrassed. “Sorry. It’s just Cecile needs us to take care of this.”

Grabbing your phone you looked to see if Cecile had sent you anything. Nothing.

“Are you sure you wanted me to go with you?” You ask feeling weird he’s simply ok with you tagging along. You haven’t even talked it out. “Of course I do. I get we need to talk. But if you’re willing to hear me out after this, I wouldn’t waste this chance.” You hate how weak your heart is for him. It’s stupid that since he’s the first one to treat you with respect you want to keep him around you. You need him to stay next to you. “I did miss my friend.” You admit which made him smile wider. “I did too. I wanted to tell you so much.” Mark continued letting himself in your room closing the window as you realize how cold it was.

“You could’ve texted me…” You mumbled as you opened the chat with the guy you were supposed to meet. “The phone works both ways.” He teased as he coincidentally looked over to see the chat open with the guy. He saw that you guys talked more than just going to the coffee shop ‘date’. “Is that really your type?” Chuckling you tucked your hair behind your ear as you drafted up the dreaded last minute cancel text. “Is that so hard to believe?”

“I would think you would lean more towards very different guys.” You don’t want to question what that even means as you throw your phone on your bed too nervous to see the guys response. “Let me just get my outfit so turn around or something.” Pulling it out from underneath your bed Mark was only able to stutter out a response as you quickly changed barely giving him any time. “I heard from Amber that you guys have been going strong.” Wanting to fill in the silence as you tried to quickly put on the costume.

“W-we are its good.” That’s it? Comparing to Amber’s reaction after every date Mark’s a stark contrast. You don’t push feeling like that was too much on your part. If you’re going to hear about it it’ll be by Amber’s words.

“What about you? Do you think you’re ready?” Referencing your potential option with the guy you just stood up. You doubt he’ll believe the excuse but you just hope. Telling him you’re done he turned to look at you as he saw you think about his words. He wish it didn’t take you that long to think about it. It was just a no. You should just say no, you deserve better, he knows as your friend.

“Well I thin-” You couldn’t even finish your sentence as you felt a splitting headache reach you. Groaning your hands shot up to your head as you felt yourself move towards your bed, “Y/N!? Are you ok?” Trying to say something only pained gasp escaped your lips as your hand gripped your head tighter. It was distant. You saw someone familiar in a rundown home waiting for you by the door. He looked so familiar. Further away from him were 2 others as they look significantly older but their look in their eyes. Yelling out it was as if the memory didn’t want you to see too much as another wave of pain crashed down onto you. You feel Mark’s arms around you as you try to stifle your pained groans on your bed. “Dammit. I need to call Cecile.” Your hand shot out bringing his phone down onto the floor hoping you didn’t break it. “No Cecile please. I can’t let him know.” You wanted to trust Cecile. You do to a certain extent. But these memories. The only person you can rely on is Mark.

“Ok no Cecile but you can’t stay here in pain.” Not being much help to think of ideas, the pain was unrelenting you turned to the other side wanting this pain to go away. At this point debating on ripping your own brain out. She looked like you. She looked so much like you. You were in a daze as you see the woman give you a soft kiss on your head with an equally kind smile. You missed her.

Hot tears spilled from your eyes as they were unexplainable even to yourself. It just hurt. Too much for your heart to handle.

He didn’t know what to do as he saw you sprawled on your bed writhing. He can only assume it was memory based, but even then you shouldn’t be in this much pain. He just knew he wanted to see you out of it. Scooping you up in his arms he opened the window knowing where he might need to go. He held onto you tighter than he would like scared he was going to leave bruises on your smooth skin. He never wants to hurt you. He doesn’t know what he’ll do if he did. It was a couple minutes as he sped here as quickly as he could, always leaving his bedroom window slightly ajar for speedy entering.

He placed you on his bed as he flew downstairs where his mom was peacefully watching tv until she noticed a blur making his mom shriek. He needs to put more alarms in the house. “Mark! What are you doing here?” She was happy to see him, always happy to have him bring back the noise in the house but as she hears a pained yell from upstairs she gives an indescribable look to him. “Who did you bring?”

“I brought a friend! She’s in pain and I don’t know what to do, but she didn’t want to go to Cecile. And you’re the only person I can trust with her. You always knew what to do when I was sick.” His way of thinking warmed Debbie’s heart as she asked Mark what exactly was going on with her as she ran upstairs to see you lying on his bed, worse than earlier. “It’s a memory thing I think. I don’t think her body wants her to have it though.” Debbie ordered Mark to find things around the house, which he quickly complied stumbling all around the house to find the items. She grabbed it from his shaky hands placing a cool towel on your head and rolling up the sleeves of your costume, wanting to give you as much as cool air if possible. Your body was burning. As Mark touched your hand, Debbie saw the concern grow tenfold. She knew better that it wasn’t the time to reprimand Mark. But it was almost like magic as Debbie comfortingly smoothed the hair out of your face, and fixed the towel on your head your body seemed to be in ease. Shallow, staggered breaths left your lips as your head leaned over towards Mark which he quickly positioned himself on the bed where you were the most comfortable. She couldn’t miss the look in her child’s eyes as he looked down at you. How he made sure the towel wasn’t covering your eyes too much, whenever you moved he made sure your head was in a good angle so you don’t wake up with a stiff neck, and carefully moving your hair. The adoration in his eyes, mixed with the worry. She knew.

She just didn’t want anyone being hurt especially her son.

But as she sees your scrunched up face she realizes you’re not too far off of Mark’s age. “Will her parents worry? You need to tell them.” But with one glance up at his mom she quickly understood what your situation was. You had no one. She can’t imagine leaving Mark to defend the world by himself especially one with powers always being out in dangerous situations.

“Why don’t we make her something for when she wakes up?” She wants to pull him away from the girl to give her some needed rest, and also to get his mind off of it. It’s been awhile since she’s seen him so stressed, wanted him to find an outlet someway. “I-I don’t know. What if something happens when we’re downstairs.” She placed a comforting hand on Mark’s shoulder feeling the tension underneath.

“I promise you nothing won’t happen. I can check in on her every 30 minutes-.” Seeing his expression she softly smiled at him, “Or you can as well. But let’s hurry up and make it.” Scared of hurting you he lightly placed your head onto his pillow before following his mom downstairs to make you a home-cooked meal that you deserve.

[lorryicious]

do you perhaps have any more Loretta/Bill content I’m VERY curious about their dynamic now 👁️👁️

I HAVE. SO MUCH. CONTENT. Loretta has been an oc I have had for YEARS so I absolutely have SO much stuff on her! Shes definitely my favorite oc alongside Jack, my other gravity falls oc. The short of it is they are forced to work together out of inconvenience by the Axolotl.. The most recent development has been the change in Lorettas ability revolving her sight because I thought it would be so cool if Loretta had the same/similar kind of mutation to Bill. It didn't change much to her character, just another reason why they ended up at the wrong place at the wrong time (time police events. I seriously need to write fanfic of the whole story LMAO)

Their dynamic is SO FUN. They bicker ALL the time and usually are yapping about something. They live together, so I think they argue over the smallest things. When they first ended up needing to work together, Bill was not thrilled AT ALL. He was VERY closed off. Loretta, not knowing this creature at all, just decided to let him do his own thing. It's only after an event where Loretta protects Bill when he's at his weakest that Bill realizes Loretta is harmless and that it wouldn't hurt to try to get some enjoyment out of her company. That turns into an actual friendship, which turns into Bill finding out Loretta is like him. Through this, they open up and become closer because of their similar identities. They just ended up on different paths because of their own mutations AUGH. Bill wanted more, when in comparison Loretta was content with what her world was already like.

Loretta is a demon hunter. She takes bounties from individuals around town to get rid of weirdness. She naturally has a knack for attracting it, so the job is perfect for her. Bill helps her with her bounties; in exchange, Loretta lets Bill drain her energy so he can regain his physical form. I have a whole animatic on my tiktok that shows how the possession works-

They are silly. They fight over what to watch on the tv, they karaoke and drink together, it takes AGES for Bill to actually open up to Loretta, Whenever they decide to share the bed (even though Bill doesn't sleep) he kicks off Lorreta off of it anyway just to frustrate her, they do makeup together, They drive up to one of the hills in gravity falls via Loretta's motorcycle and watch the sunset together. Love them. I have SO many thoughts on their dynamic, but they are there for each other, and despite all their issues, they love each other. They NEVER say it to each other because Bill is deathly scared of that word.

They are an oc x canon ship so they are together as partners TECHNICALLY. Still, I also think they are so messed up via the canon story that an ACTUAL domestic relationship dynamic just doesn't work for the two. Plus, Bill needs help understanding labels and Loretta doesn't need them. Plus there's the Jack situation...Which is a WHOLE OTHER RANT. JACK. AUGH. The love triangle (literally) goes insane. In my happy au they are a polycule asf.

Literally ask ANY questions about them, I might even draw something up if its a fun scenario you guys send,,, I LOVE THAT PEOPLE ARE INTERESTED IN THE OCS BECAUSE !!!! I HAVE SO MUCH CONTENT FOR THEM.

Some of this is older art but it still works <33 and I STILL LOVE IT

This one I did recently-

Great side effect for being able to see outside your plane of reality AND being intertwined to a demon, you get to relive HIS trauma TOO!! (imagine how horrifying that was when Loretta told Bill the dreams shes been having) (double note: Bill played it off like they were random when he was FREAKING OUT ON THE INSIDE)

[millenianthemums]

ooooh could you tell us about the Stan and Bill copiloting stans body au? That sounds fun!

I’M SO SORRY I TOOK SO MANY MONTHS TO ANSWER THIS. i wanted to find a good, snappy way to describe it and make some art to go with it. but then i lost track of time and also the art took a million years. oops.

Anyway, the Stanbill Copilot AU, as I’ll call it, has changed a lot since i first thought of it. the concept was always that Stan and Bill being forced to share a body and work together for one reason or another; I came up with the idea long before listening to Malevolent, but if you’ve listened to that, it’s a similar concept. Two beings sharing one body and having different levels of control at different times.

The current setup is, in this universe, Stan and Ford made up at some point and moved to Gravity Falls together. So Stan was there when Ford started working with Bill and very quickly saw through Bill’s whole con-artist shtick. He tries to convince Ford that Bill’s bad news, but Ford insists on continuing to work with him, so Stan decides to just keep as close an eye on Bill as possible. Bill despises Stan, but can’t figure out a way to get rid of him without losing Ford as well. So he tries to win him over by pretending to be cool and nice, leading him to actually start to get a little attached. This also means Bill spends a lot more time and energy on his relationship with Ford (and Stan), which makes the Henchmaniacs start to wonder if their boss’s head isn’t in the game anymore.

Then on the day Ford and Fiddleford get the portal open for the first time, everything goes horribly wrong at once. Fiddleford still gets dragged into the portal, but this time Bill actually steps in to stop the Henchmaniacs from messing with him. This is the straw that breaks the camel’s back for them, so they take advantage of the portal being open to stage a quick coup. Bill gets thrown out of the Nightmare Realm with no physical form and his pals attack everyone. Stan is fatally wounded trying to protect the others, and Ford is dragged back through the portal as it’s closing.

With no other useful allies and no other options, Bill possesses Stan before he can bleed out. This keeps him alive for the time being, but now if Bill ever leaves his body, Stan will almost immediately die of blood loss. Bill manages to figure out a way to allow him and Stan to both stay aware in the body; Bill sees out of one of Stan’s eyes, and their senses are essentially split between each other. With Fiddleford traumatized and flatly refusing to work with Bill, he and Stan are left on their own, and have to work together to figure out a way to save Ford. They end up having to fight a lot of supernatural monsters sent by the Henchmaniacs to try and capture them, as well as the Society of the Blind Eye when Fiddleford eventually goes off the deep end and decides Bill has to die one way or another.

And then Dipper and Mabel still end up visiting Gravity Falls for that one summer, and Stan and Bill have to try and hide Bill’s existence and care for the kids on top of everything else they’re already dealing with.

[ceaselesswatchersspecialboy]

Heyo! Got a question or two. (Or six-)

- Do you ship Mabifica? Or Dipcifica for that matter? I personally like the former more but I'm just imagining Bill's reaction to having to deal with the fact the girl who insulted Mabel is now dating her/her brother.

Actually, even if you ship neither, I just want his reaction the the Pine twins now being friends(?) With Paz.

Would he try to scare her off? Would he warm up to her?

(If you couldn't already tell, Pacifica is one of my favorite characters, just below Mabel.)

- Does Stan and Ford ever get as close as they did at the end of the show? I mean, Ford must be reeling, sure. But.. Do they ever get on that boat?

- Does Bill make an effort to reconcile with Ford? Even just a show of apology?

- And does Ford bond with the twins? Would he just see them as another thing Bill has tainted?

- Also. Are you planning to make fanfiction of this? Or a comic? Or any media that tells the story? It's now become an integral part of my life.

- Last one! What other bonding moments does Bill have with Wendy? We've got the bets, yeah. But is that all?

(I found your au an hour and a half ago, and I'm already this invested. That is absolutely amazing, considering I don't really latch on to things. (Thanks a lot, autism) I love the art, and I love the tidbits. If it ever gets too overwhelming, don't be afraid to take a breather!! ><)

Hello! I shall do my best to answer!

— I’m personally a Dipcifica enjoyer myself! I don’t see them getting together this summer, so it’s less of a dating thing, but Bill would be decent at recognising the signs of a crush forming thanks to Mabel exposure all summer. He’d be completely against it. He’s listing every reason why the Northwests suck to Dipper, all the times Pacifica has done something to make Mabel feel awful! He’s maybe a little dramatic about it, in true Bill fashion, and is taken aback when Mabel insists it’s okay.

Pacifica’s changing, they both say! Mabel fully intends to be Dipper’s wingman!

Bill finds that idea ridiculous. People don’t just change. Humans are known for staying the same once they’ve settled into their body — that’s just how it is.

Pacifica has proven to be the opposite of everything Bill has taught the twins, and so he sees the blooming friendship as a threat and doesn’t like it. It doesn’t help that it’s around the time his fear of changing is at an all time high, so he’s maybe projecting a little onto Pacifica.

He definitely tries to scare her off initially, and when that doesn’t work, he settles with threatening her should she ever make Mabel upset against. His threats are… very intense and it’s clear the issue runs deeper than just Pacifica. He really goes for her insecurities. Honestly, this may be one of his worst moments in front of the twins? Stan ends up having to intervene and try to figure out what’s going on in Bill’s head beyond just being protective over Mabel.

(Pacifica girl I am so sorry)

He doesn’t warm to her per se, not yet, as much as he learns to tolerate her sometimes being around. She does her best to avoid him anyhow.

— Still working out the exact details so I don’t have much to say right now, but yes, he does. A verbal apology from Bill is also kind of a big deal. Like Stan struggles saying Please, and Ford struggles saying thank you, Bill struggles saying sorry.

— Ford does bond with the twins! I think I mentioned in a post a bit ago that Dungeons Dungeons and more Dungeons is like a gateway for their relationship, and it helps Ford become more comfortable around them and vice versa. Though the general unease still lingers at times, Dipper starts to get comfortable asking him more and more questions about Gravity Falls, and Mabel knits him a few sweaters and tries to catch him up on all the pop culture he’s missed etc. Sometimes he snaps at them when he needs space, and he tends to hide behind Stan some days, but they do get to know this new Ford, and begin to get closer to him bit by bit before Summer ends.

I think he does see them as something Bill has tainted, but not in an irreversible way. If anything, it motivates him to try and get to know them more once the initial fear has settled, to try and re-instate himself as Ford Pines, and be their Great Uncle.

— I don’t plan on making a fic or a comic, mainly because I am busy right now and juggling a lot. It just isn’t something feasible for me and I notoriously don’t do well managing long projects. But, I am hoping to do art and maybe mini comics for it, once I defeat my art block and style crisis, perhaps some one-shots too if I can also defeat my eternal writers block. I’m honoured you think that way of it though!!

— They generally have a very positive relationship! Bill is seen as the cooler Stan by her friends, mainly because of the fact he doesn’t really act his age, and happily enables anything they want to do, and so whenever she needs something, she tends to go to him. (“No hard feelings Stan!”) And If Stan taught her how to shoplift, Bill probably taught her how to get away with murder, not that she’d really need that, the thought still counts. They also share similar music tastes, so when Bill’s around the shack, he’ll ask Wendy to blast some AC/DC while they work. He’s also taught her all the ways to get under Stan’s skin, because he knows for a fact she’ll use them.

I think this AU too, he’s the one who showed her the rooftop spot. He encouraged any form of rebelling against the system, even if that means slacking and getting Stan to shout at both of them.

Thank you so much!? That means a lot to hear and I hope you continue to enjoy it!! And I appreciate it, I’m trying to take it slow and answer whatever asks I can and when I can, to avoid getting overwhelmed.

[dorkagedoodles]

And there we have it folks - the end of Empyrean Book I! I sound like a parrot but just ... thank you so much for reading! Also, for everyone's convenience, the afterword is also in text under the "keep reading" bellow. <<< PREVIOUS ✧˖☆˖✧˖☆˖✧Page Archive✧˖☆˖✧˖☆˖✧

(To be continued ... ) AFTERWORD

I’ve been putting off writing this for way too long, thinking I have plenty of time until suddenly: BAM! December was upon me and the final update of Empyrean Book I was uploaded while I had the worst migraine in years and couldn’t even scramble together a last minute afterword. But here we go. I’ll try not to care about sounding professional or eloquent, just so I can get it done.

First I want to say a big thank you to everyone who've read Empyrean, all the way through or just a little bit, I’m grateful nonetheless. And extra big thank you to everyone who’s left comments or nice tags in the reblogs etc. I’m awful at responding, but I’ve seen them all and really, really appreciate it.

I worked on the book on and off for three years and I’m pretty happy with the end result. Of course, this is just the beginning of the story. I have an outline for the whole thing, aiming for a total of four books of similar length which will, as you can guess, take a loooooong time. Which brings me to my second point.

Empyrean will go on hiatus for the time being. For how long? I wish I knew. While Book 2 is all scripted and currently in the sketching stage, I have no idea when I’ll have enough finished pages for an update. Once I do, however, I’ll probably update as I finish the pages, rather than wait for the whole book to be complete.

I don’t think I need to explain much of why this is. It’s simply being an adult. It’s having rent, bills and a cat with special dietary needs. And what Empyrean brings in joy it certainly doesn’t bring in money, so ever since July I’ve drawn almost nothing but freelance work.

Despite that, I still feel positive about the future of Empyrean. It’s already been published in parts in a small Swedish magazine and I’ve met people and opened doors that would have been impossible, had I not created Empyrean. Long time followers might remember how I’ve long wanted to be able to support myself by making art. And right now? That's exactly what I’m doing.

Finishing Empyrean will take many years and, in the end, it might never even get picked up by a publisher. But I’m at peace with both of those things. I draw Empyrean entirely for myself and would continue to do so even if not a single other person was reading it. Though … as long as there’s at least one such person I will keep uploading it too!

Lastly, I’ve been looking into self-publishing and hope to give that a try. No solid plans yet, just counting costs, looking at kickstarters and such. I’m currently neck-deep in a big project, but once that’s over I can start thinking about it again. When the time comes, I will of course post about it.

I think that is all. It got a bit longer and ramblier than I planned but oh well.

Again, thank you so much for reading Empyrean! And until next time! -Hans

[rustbeltjessie]

I haven’t made a pinned post in a while, but since it’s my birthday month and I’m struggling right now, I figured it’s a good time to make one.

First, let me introduce myself. I’m Jessie Lynn McMains, aka Rust Belt Jessie. I’m a writer (poetry and prose), artist, zine-maker, spoken word performer, occasional musician, small press publisher, and general jack of several creative trades. I’m queer—bi/mspec and nonbinary (I use they/them, she/her, and he/him pronouns). I’m disabled and neurodivergent, and the parent of two kiddos. Politically? Well, I consider myself an anarchist at heart, but I still vote in every election. I think everyone should be able to have enough food, and a safe place to live, and yeah, even a few ‘unnecessary,’ fun things, just by virtue of being alive. As for the rest of my beliefs, you can probably garner a general idea if you peruse my blog even a little.

Now, onto the nitty-gritty. We had about ten days between when our last month’s food money ran out and when this month’s came in. It has been refilled as of today, so I don’t have to worry about that for the moment, but because of that gap, I had to spend money I’d set aside for other stuff on food. I paid our rent and energy bill for the month, but I’m a couple months overdue on our Internet bill, and I don’t want to risk that getting shut off. And then, well, it’s December. I’m trying to buy my kids some Christmas presents, and it’s not just my birthday month—my youngest kiddo’s birthday is four days before Christmas. Because of all this, I’m also way behind on writing stuff. I owe my zine subscribers a new issue (I didn’t send anything at all in November), and I’m trying to finish up some pieces to record for my new spoken word EP, but I’ve had to focus on day job and side-hustle stuff that’s more immediately lucrative, so I haven’t been able to dedicate much time to finishing these projects.

If you’d like to throw some $$ my way so I can get some gifts for my kiddos, keep my Internet on, get back to my writing, and maybe have a less-stressful birthday month than I did last year, I have V*nmo (JessieLynnMcMains) and P*yp*l (coeur.de.fantome [at] gmail[dot]com).

But hey, hey, I’m not just asking for something for nothing! I have a lot of stuff available on Ko-fi (rustbeltjessie), including print books and zines, ebooks and zines, and pins, and you can also hire me as an editor or commission a custom mini-collage. And almost everything is sliding scale/pay-what-you-can, some with a minimum price, others starting at $0.

And that zine subscription? It’s still not too late to get in on it, even though the year is almost over. If you sign up now, you’ll receive all previous issues, along with this month’s when it’s finished, and the final two will be mailed out in January.

Or perhaps you’d like to buy or commission something I don’t officially have for sale. Maybe you’d like to buy one of my existing pieces of art? Or commission a custom pin, designed by me, based on the band/film/fandom/whatever of your choice? Or commission a custom postcard poem/art piece, on the subject of your choice? Or have me write you a custom mini-zine, on the subject of your choice? I can do all those things! DM me, and we’ll work something out!

Oh, and I mentioned above that I was working on a new spoken word EP? Go check out my full-length spoken word album, Self-Portrait With Ghosts and Trains, which was released by Hello America Stereo Cassette in July 2021. You can find it at helloamerica.bandcamp.com. (I do get royalties from that release periodically, but it’s not as immediate as if you purchase something directly from me.)

All that said, I know times are tough for most people right now, so please don’t feel obligated to purchase anything or otherwise send money my way. And, as always, even just a few dollars helps, as does reblogging/boosting this post. 🖤

[poltergeistsoup]

URGENT

I have been in contact with Marlei for several weeks now. She is also verified by Noah Grigini on Instagram, who is very active in mutual aid work.

Marlei is 26 years old, disabled, and has been left homeless with her 3 children after a typhoon in the Philippines in July.

She has just recently been hospitalized, and is unsure of what will happen to her and her family now.

I have been helping her afford food and shelter over the past 2 weeks, but she needs almost 21,000 pesos (1,055 USD) to pay for her hospital bills. I am taking 5-10 dollar requests in exchange for proof of do*nation, as well as opening commissions for higher payments. All payments will go directly to Marlei and I will provide proof of payment.

Give directly to Marlei here

DM me at poltergeistsoup for commissions

I know there are a lot of things requiring our attention at the moment, and they’re all very important, but since I have been in contact with her personally, I would like to do what I can to help. I also understand I’m asking other people who may also be struggling, but sharing may help this reach the right person.

If she is able to get to half the amount by the end of the week, she will be able to be discharged so she doesn’t accrue more debt. I would like to help get her to 600 USD by the end of the week.

Edit: We had been able to reach the goal and help Marlei pay off her hospital bills! However, she is still homeless and the Philippines is facing typhoon after typhoon. If you are able to continue to support her in staying in a hotel room and affording food for herself and her children, I am still taking art requests with proof of d*nation.

[dangopango00]

COLLEGE AU TIGHNARI ROOMMATE HCS

Tighnari x gn reader

A/N: AUGGGHHHHH IM INSANE AGAIENEBWFWFWWGQ Missing tighnari hours oue so I will write out all the roomie hcs I have to share; per usual its self indulgent as hell

If im being fr this is probably gonna have a part 2 soon i always forget something 😭😭 also my art of him is down there somewhere!!!!

Cw: long af oh my god

more utc

First Meeting:

- You’re a biology major or something similar and just visiting the college you’ll be attending

- You were definitely going to move into the dorms but you heard about and later witnessed some student running around like a maniac looking for a roommate

- You even got emails about it, found flyers on some of the pinboards around the school and even saw ads online (whether that be in some college gc app like zeemee or whatever)

- Eventually you did a bit of basic research on this guy by asking some of your friends or people who know him and you found out his name is Tighnari and he’s double majored in biology and botany

- You let him go on for a few days-a week before you realized he really wasn’t going to find a roommate this late in the game; feeling both pity and admiration for his dedication, you approached him with one of the flyers in your hand as the poor guy took a break from his ad campaign

- “Um… about this flyer…..”

- Tighnari’s ears immediately perked up oh you just made his week, no his month— maybe even his year

- “Yes? Are you interested in moving in? My previous roommate has begun living elsewhere” he explained.

- You’re hesitant, hoping you aren’t making a mistake but eventually steel yourself and figure you only live once right? Plus he could always help with your work! You give him a firm nod.

- Tighnari got a bit overexcited, asking way too many questions at once, “When can you move in? How will you be paying rent? Are you alright with plants? Right, by the way I’m Tighnari. I am a biology and botany major”

- “It’s nice to meet you! I’m (Y/n). I can move in soon and plants are fine! Uh …About rent! I’ll have to find a job but I do have some savings!” you confessed nervously.

- To tell the truth you weren’t planning on getting a job this early on, planning to get the hang of the new workload first but desperate times call for desperate measures (Cute guy in trouble 😤)

- Tighnari however, was unamused. His face completely dropped as if you’d just told him his entire family dropped dead, “You don’t have a source of income already…? Then why would you…. Sigh Nevermind. Its fine. This is fine. I’ll even help you job search”

- “Greeeaaatttt there goes my credit” he thought. And it showed on his face too.

- You just shoot him a silly smile and over the course of the days it took to move you into his apartment you establish some ground rules

Rules:

- He will do the cooking and he’ll cook for you if he’s cooking for himself (if he’s not cooking then you’re on your own)

- In return you do a majority of the cleaning although it’s still pretty split kinda like a 60/40 or 55/45 kind of deal

- You pay the water bill while he pays electricity (you take long showers and his plants and such sometimes require lamps + he just uses a lot of electricity I feel like it’s not usually for him but his plants and work)

- Visitors are pretty much always welcome but you have to let the other know beforehand

- Although the previous rule is true none of those kind of visitors are allowed. Tighnari has sensitive ears he don’t wanna hear that 😭😭

- Be cool and communicate if you have a problem

Apartment:

- SO MANY PLANTS. LIKE THEY ARE TAKING OVER THE APARTMENT . This is a big part of why Tighnari didn’t want to live in the dorms since he wouldn’t be able to have as many plants as he wanted

- It’s a little funny Cyno has really bad allergies so he never lived with him and Collei lived with him for a long time but moved out to move in with Amber (oue shes leaving the nest) (she’s in the apartment right below yours)

- You, as a biology major, on the other hand LOVE the amount of plants in the apartment and Tighnari is ecstatic because he was sooo worried you’d try to make him get rid of them or something; is even more glad that you like them as much as he does

- Also has a big tank of worms where he dumps all the leftovers neither of you eat. He then uses the compost as plant fertilizer

- Despite the amount of things in the apartment its very neat and organized; there are little notebooks next to every living thing to keep track of when and how to feed them

You and Him:

- He has a very old ass car but only uses it for emergencies because he’s not a fan of carbon emissions (usually goes places by public transport, walking or hitching rides) (its the little things that make a big difference ok)

- He works two jobs: One at a plant/flower shop and the other at the school library

- He sometimes brings home new plants because all the plants no one will buy are always given to him by management

- You work one or two jobs likely on campus maybe in the newspaper or the school cafe etc

- Either way whenever you get home tired or after just having a bad day he’d comfort you so much no matter how many days in a row you do the same thing, flopping on the couch and groaning

- When you first did it you two weren’t close but he still stroked your hair and offered you some words of praise but when you two became more comfortable he’d straight up hold you to his chest or let you lay on his lap while stroking your hair if you don’t mind

- “I really need to stop coddling you” he’d say this all the time but never follow through on it and you’d be in his arms as we speak 😅

- He never did stop coddling you. Whenever you watch a show or anime he’s right beside you on the couch reading his book as he glances up every now and again; sometimes gives his two cents on what’s going on in the show (my personal fave is him getting mad at the usopp going merry arc in water 7 bye)

- He has little black rectangular reading glasses idc idgaf he dresses like an old man too with cardigans and sweater vests, maybe overalls if he’s going out to do garden work (he has no sense of fashion we know this)

- If you’re willing to listen he will yap so much about his plants and about wildlife; his heart melts in his chest if you seem genuinely interested and are paying close attention

- You have a snail named Saniel/Saniela. You almost stepped on him and brought him inside, putting him in a little terrarium thing.

- Tighnari hates that thing (he doesn’t; he’s like a grumpy father with a new dog) if it gets out it will eat his plants, so watch it. 😤

- Posts it on his little conservation account (shoutout to the person who wrote that post where he had a conservation insta acc i cant find it) and it overtakes the page gn its his worst nightmare. First it steals his unofficial lover now his followers

- Yall would’ve been burned at the stake in the 1800s you’re always doing your “projects” in the house unless its dangerous (but you’ll still do it outside) like you seeing a girl on Tiktok grow mushrooms on a book so you try it at home…

- He always helps you with anyyyyything. You need help studying for this biology test? So does he, come on in. You need a shoulder to cry on? He has two!! You want a snack but you don’t want to ask too much of him? Don’t be ridiculous he’s making you something as we speak

- He’s actually such a sweetheart he worries about your diet so much; honestly he’s content knowing that you’re under his care bc then he knows you’re eating right

- He wakes up and starts his day INSANELY early and honestly if you manage to wake up before him he’d probably flinch seeing you up LOL he’s so not used to anyone being awake when he is let alone earlier

- Absolute hypocrite too, he won’t let you sleep too late no matter what day it is or whether you have class or not but when he does it he’s just busy smh

- Wouldn’t mind if you treated him the same although if it’s time sensitive he fears he cannot give in to your demands sigh

- He’s a worrywart and a leeeetle nagging but you can tell he cares and you care about him just the same

- You’re always doing whatever you can to take stress off of his shoulders like running errands for him, cooking for him/ordering takeout when he can’t cook, Taking care of his plants for him when he’s busy, etc

- If you work out in the house after moving in then it’s so over for him

- He’s insane. If you’re in the living room he will go “read” his book on the couch but he’s been on the same page the whole time, is he ever gonna flip?

- Not even like explicit workouts like squats or something; just seeing you push yourself to your limit and sweaty and grunting and— where was he again? Ah right page 52.

- It’s so much worse if you ask him to help in some way, he can’t focus at all especially if you ask him to sit on your back while you do pushups

- Also a fan of you being taller than him no matter the method. (Which isn’t hard to achieve bc I hc him like 5’1-5’3) Naturally tall? Great! Wearing platforms? Amazing! Standing on a stool? As long as he doesn’t look down then it’s hot

Funny Bonus from the ari:

Tighnari: do you know anyone who still needs housing arrangements?? pls I’m desperate 😭

Alhaitham: you could take Kaveh

Kaveh: WOWWWW…

[slashv1xen]

*kicks open door** GROSS CREEPY REDNECK MAN!?

No but seriously Otis is my guilty pleasure character and I need him with a 'tomboy' reader (aka a basic rural southern woman (It'd be nice if you could include her being oddly feminine despite all the hunting and the cursing and the fighting: Like she calls him a cunt then goes and bakes a bunch of sweets or goes off to work on a dress tailoring project XD))

i like the way u think ;) also otis does NOT have enough fanfics/headcannons written about him and it’s actually a crime

i feel like otis has two types of girls: the same (tomboy like u mentioned) or the opposite (hyper feminine girl from the city).

i also think that when he stumbled upon u he had the only intention to kill u like other victims, but something keeps him from doing so (that’s up to u anonie). and i think it sealed the deal after u got along with his family (helping mama clean up around the house + doing baby’s hair for ex.) after keeping u locked up in his house for months. he’s also definitely a family man, so he appreciates it.

like otis, u have a smart mouth on u (which otis thinks is cute only to a certain degree, going further than that and u wish u hadn’t opened ur mouth in the first place). nonetheless, otis still loves u, and thinks ur cussing and smart mouth makes u all the more loveable.

because u happen to be a tomboy, when u do traditionally more girly things/have girly hobbies it surprises him, but he doesn’t hate it (in fact he thinks it’s cute but he would never say that out loud), which makes u a combo of both fem and masc (best of both worlds - his words not mine).

one shot 💗

“yes!” you shouted as the bullet that shot from the rifle hit the deer in the head, otis grumbling (but you knew he was proud of you). the two of you had a bet on who could shoot prey first, and you won. “pay up baby!”

otis rolled his eyes with a cocky grin on his face as a slapped a scrunched up $10 bill in your hand. “i was just going easy on you, i could easily beat you next time.” he yelled as you walked away giggling with the money, waving him off. “yeah, yeah!”

as the both of you made it into the house you noticed that otis’s air around him was tense. you frowned slightly but didn’t say anything, after all he hated speaking about his emotions, or just hated talking about emotions in general (it didn’t help he was practically a pro at hiding his emotions). then it clicked in your head as he roughly put his rifle down. ‘is he annoyed he lost the bet? i wouldn’t have picked him as the sore loser, petty type.’ you chuckled, finding it a little cute, but you still didn’t want him sulking around.

suddenly an idea came into your head, and immediately you began working, knowing that this would surely cheer him up.

after around 2 hours you knocked on his door, and he muttered that you could enter. you did, and set a warm tray on his bed. he was sitting at his desk, working on some art project (he’s always got some art project to do). he smelled the air and turned to the bed, and his eyes lightened up for a second before a confused expression emerged onto his face.

“cookies? what’d ya do this for?” he rose an eyebrow, wondering if this was a ruse or something. you tsked, annoyed he didn’t understand the gesture, but you explained it to him either way. “well i noticed you seemed a bit annoyed for losing the bet, and i thought this would make you feel better.” you smiled, feeling proud of yourself.

“hm, didn’t pick you for a baker type’a girl.” he mumbled, inspecting the cookies. you scoffed before his eyes met with yours. “y’know, this is unnecessary. i’m not even mad, you’re seeing into things that aren’t there.” he said, speaking up louder. you were annoyed at this reaction. you spent 2 hours baking him cookies (he has a big sweet tooth) to cheer him up and this is the thanks you get.

“fine, i’ll just take these back and give them to someone who’ll actually appreciate them and won’t be a dick about it. maybe baby, or tiny.” you grabbed the tray before you felt otis’s calloused hands grip your wrists, forcing you to set the tray down.

“hey baby, don’t be like that. y’know i didn’t mean it like that, i appreciate the effort, i do. i’m just surprised, okay?” he looked genuine and his eyes met yours. you were waiting for him to say sorry, but the way he his, he probably wouldn’t. you sighed, not saying anything. he sighed as well, and with all his strength, he mumbled something. “…sorry.”

you’re eyes lit up when he said this. otis driftwood, saying sorry? that was a first. suddenly a grin flew onto your face as you hugged him and laughed.

“now, stop that bad mood of yours and let’s eat these cookies before they get cold.”

tysm for this request, i had so much fun writing it! i’m sorry if this wasn’t up to ur standards it was a challenge to write and i wanted it to get out asap. if u have any more please send them in, i would love to hear them x