#also don't mention fruits basket another

[strongheartneteyam]

[ IMPORTANT: the picture in the middle is a fungi that produces a liquid that ONLY SEEMS like blood. It's NOT real blood.]

It bleeds and it burns.

Neteyam Sully x female!omatikaya!reader

Author's note: Neteyam is in his twenties and he's now the Olo'eyktan of the Omatikaya clan.

CW: established relationship, so angsty, broken hearted reader, jealous reader, insecure reader, mentions of sex, emotionally hurt neteyam, intense feelings, hurt/comfort, crying, forgiveness, heart wrenching but beautiful

Not proofread. Also, I don't really know what kind of fanfiction this is, maybe a short story ??? no idea. just felt like writing it. hope u guys like it ♡

( :̲̅:̲̅:[̲̅:★:]̲̅:̲̅:̲̅:̲̅)

And so it seems I broke your heart

My ignorance has struck again

I failed to see it from the start and tore you open 'til the end

And I'm sorry to my unknown lover

Sorry that I can't believe that anybody ever really starts to fall in love with me

Sorry (Halsey)

( :̲̅:̲̅:[̲̅:★:]̲̅:̲̅:̲̅:̲̅)

Neteyam would always take your hand and smile at you so sincerely. You could tell how much he loved you only by the way his lips curled up and his mouth opened up wide, his fangs protruding.

You knew how strong he was, how powerful he was as the Olo'eyktan of the Omatikaya clan. Your mate was a fearless, brave warrior, a skilled hunter, a beyond great archer.

But you also knew he would never hurt you. He would never dare to use his physical strength or high intelligence to bruise or betray you, in any way. Not if he could help it. Never on purpose.

Neteyam had the softest spot for you ever. He was always there to help you, to keep you safe. He'd spend longer than usual out in the forest only to hunt your favorite kind of meat, gather your favorite fruits, bring you enough water for you to never be dehydrated.

You were a jealous kind of girl. Whenever you saw another female na'vi, a stranger, who wasn't a family member or an old friend of his, gazing at him for way too long, you'd become territorial. You'd sit on his lap when everyone would gather to eat together around the scorching bonfire, just so all the other Omatikaya girls knew Neteyam was yours. That you two had made tsaheylu, that it was useless to try.

Meanwhile, Neteyam only had eyes for you but you couldn't realize that. Even though everytime you two made love, especially when he was going through his rut, he would worship your body just like you were a goddess, like you were Eywa herself. So, you ended up hurting him when trying to keep him closer. You ended up making him bleed instead of nursing his wounds. You would have anger outbursts, fighting with Neteyam and showing too much jealousy unbelievably often.

One night, you were crazily mad at him. He was late. Where the hell could he be? What company was he keeping?

When Neteyam finally came home, only a little later than the usual, you started to ask him a handful of cutting questions. You asked him - nervously and in attack mode - where he was, if someone was with him, why was he so damn late. You told him you were not a fool and if he ever cheated on you, you'd never forgive him.

"I was just looking for this." He handed you a small basket full of bittersweet little berries. "I know they are your favorite. Wanted to bring you some but finding them took longer than I expected. There was a nantang in the way." (viperwolf) "I had to make him go away without hurting him too much. It was hard..." He sighed, tired "Sorry for coming home late." Neteyam was so calm, his altruism ruled over his instinct to defend himself.

You were left speechless, full of regret, feeling sorry for... everything. You had to change. You had to be a better mate for your Neteyam. He deserved the world and took so many responsibilities for himself. It had been so since he was a young na'vi boy. He surely felt overwhelmed. Who was going to always be there for him if not his mate, the one he was bonded to forevermore?

"You know," Neteyam's eyes stared deep inside yours. His feline like ears were pointing down, betraying his pain "not everything is what it seems."

You were frozen in your place, looking down at the floor, not able to look him in the eye. Your thoughts started to spiral, telling you that you were not good enough to be his mate and you always mess everything up in the end. Some seconds passed while you listened to that wicked voice in your head, while you let your insecurities deceive you, pretending to want to help you, when in the end, their true intention was to drag you down, make you act in stupidity.

When you looked up again, he was already gone. You walked towards the door, despair hitting you hard, stealing the air that should be going inside your lungs and out. Your eyes rapidly caught Neteyam's silhouette walking fast towards the open forest. He would always go there to unwind a bit, to organize his thoughts when everything felt like too much.

You could only hope and pray to the Great Mother that when he came back, he would forgive you for how you had been acting lately, for not trusting him, for being paranoid. You hoped he would give you a second chance to make it right. You tried to calm down, to breathe. You waited for him.

After walking for some time, Neteyam was now sitting on a tree branch. That same tree stood really tall. It was the perfect place to hide and not be bothered.

Hot tears silently rolled down his face. He was the Olo'eyktan, he could not let anyone see him cry in the middle of the forest, late at night, so he camouflaged, up high in that huge tree.

Neteyam's strong heart now felt fragile. He felt weak. Almost nobody could break him. He learned to be the toughest he could be just so he could take the heavy position of Olo'eyktan, leading his clan. Many envied him, but, what they didn't realize was that the "crown" he wore weighed more than it shone.

He loved to be the leader of his people but that didn't mean it was not hard to try and not crumble, even on the face of such complicated matters he had to solve, even facing life threatening danger really often, to be the Omatikaya people protector, ready to fight and give his life up to keep everyone safe and sound.

He didn't have the luxury to put himself in first place.

But he was thankful for his mate. His safe haven used to be you. But you became darker with time, harder to deal with. He missed who you were in the beginning. That fresh, bubbly, sweet girl he fell in love with. All he wanted was her back in his arms. Sometimes, he did not recognize you anymore.

Neteyam started to hear intense, irregular sounds of brittle leaves breaking. Someone was running through the forest he was in, getting closer and closer to where he was. He was in a full vigilance state now. But it soon changed.

It was you. You were now standing next to the tree he was sitting on. He looked down at your slender body that, from so afar, looked utterly small.

"Neteyam!" You shouted, looking up at your mate. The frail eclipse light that came through the leaves made his bioluminescent freckles shine so bright, just like many tiny fireflies settled on his dark blue, perfect skin. "I'm so sorry! Please! Can we talk?!" You looked at him, pleading

Neteyam immediately gave in. Of course he wanted to talk to you. To hear you say "forgive me". To accept you back inside his arms. He loved you ardently. All he wanted and needed was you.

He signaled he was going to get off the tree, and, so did he.

When he got to the floor, you ran to him like he was air and you were almost drowning.

"I'm so, so, so sorry, my yawne!" (beloved)

"Shhhh... it's okay." Neteyam cooed, trying to comfort you. He held you tight in his arms, your skin glued to his warm, comfortable body. "We'll make it through. I love you, yawntu." (loved one) "Forever."

Your mate took your face on his big hands and, seeing you were crying, inconsolable, he just crushed his lips on yours and kissed your pain and angst away.

"Oel ngati kameie." (I see you) "I never stopped seeing who you truly are. On our darkest moments, I still remembered." Neteyam reassured you, his face serene and full of a burning kind of love, only and exclusively for you.

You understood. You finally understood.

You did not need to be insecure. Nothing could ever tear the both of you apart. Not even death. You could finally rest your head down on your mat and sleep peacefully.

જ★

I'm tagging you @yeosxxx bc u asked to be tagged in all my works and I'm SO sorry for almost forgetting to tag u 🥲 my memory sucks

[maverick-werewolf]

Werewolf Fact #75 - Cynocephali (dog-headed men)

This month's folklore fact is a long-awaited one from over on the Patreon: the cynocephali or "dog-headed men."

Some depictions of cynocephali (the one above is from the Nuremberg Chronicle, 1493) are mistaken for werewolves fairly frequently; there are several differences of note, including but not limited to the fact that they are otherwise very, very human (normal hands and feet, no tail, etc) and that their ears are not always shaped like a wolf's/pointing directly upright. They often are, however, so don't take the ear shape as a surefire thing, either. When in doubt, make sure the depiction is actually meant to be showing a werewolf before using it for, I don't know, a royalty-free image in your werewolf publication (I've seen several). The cynocephali do not shapeshift, nor are they associated with wolves. They have nothing to do with werewolves. Yes, it was just a plot to make you click this link and read about cynocephali.

Cynocephali, or singular cynocephalus, is a term derived from the original Greek word "kynokephaloi," meaning "dog-headed." They have other names as well, which mean a range of things such as "dog-faced" and "half-dog." They were mentioned in assorted accounts and tales of travelers in Africa and India, appearing in sources as old as ancient Greece, and some similar beings can be found in other cultures, such as China. Likewise, depictions of and discussions of such beings continue into the Middle Ages. This same term was later used to refer to baboons, to which no-fun modern day scholars now attribute all cynocephali legends (although we do have at least one Ottoman depiction of a cynocephalus battling a monkey).

There are many quotes across various sources and time periods about these beings, including but not limited to this one from the fifth century BC Greek historian Herodotus, Histories 4. 191. 3 (trans. Godley) [source: Theoi]

"For the eastern region of Libya, which the Nomads inhabit, is low-lying and sandy as far as the Triton river; but the land west of this, where the farmers live, is exceedingly mountainous and wooded and full of wild beasts. In that country are the huge snakes and the lions, and the elephants and bears and asps, the horned asses, the Kunokephaloi (Cynocephali) (Dog-Headed) and the Headless Men that have their eyes in their chests, as the Libyans say, and the wild men and women, besides many other creatures not fabulous."

Some stories of the cynocephali are also frightfully specific as to how they live, rear livestock, grow fruit, weave baskets, wage war, and much more, even including details of their society, clothing, how long they live, etc. It's all quite interesting. If you'd like to read more specific quotations, you can find many on one of my favorite websites, Theoi.

Sources seem to dispute one another as to whether they bark, do not bark but only howl, only shriek, or whatever other sounds they may make, and there is also a range of descriptions including elements such as if they have beards and whether hair covers their bodies as well as the dog-head. Overall, probably the majority of sources say they wear the skins of animals as opposed to having fur, but there are those that also call them hairy all over.

Please note that I will not be covering/discussing any gods from ancient Egypt in this post, because despite what some modern day scholars like to discuss, I don't consider them "cynocephali." They were wolf-headed deities, not dog-headed (or even jackal-headed), and are overall only related to cynocephali legends by proxy and by modern scholars always putting everything into blasted categories for their next thesis. There were some dog-headed deities in ancient Egypt, and Anubis, Wepwawet, Duamutef, etc, were not among them, and even then, we can't really assert that the dog-headed deities among the ancient Egyptians are actually related to other legends and records of cynocephali.

With that out of the way, let's continue...

One of my personal favorite stories involving a dog-headed man is a version of the tale of Saint Christopher, though these depictions and this tale are not seen as canon by churches and has been proscribed in Eastern Orthodoxy (where such depictions were generally most common). Some of these depictions still survive, however. Some sources believe that Byzantine depictions of a dog-headed Christopher come from mistaking "Cananeus" (meaning "Canaanite") for "caninus," i.e. canine.

In the story about a dog-headed Saint Christopher, there lives Reprebrus (among other variations of his name; ultimately, they all essentially mean "reprobate"), who is captured by Romans in battle and made to serve among them. Reprebrus was said to be of "enormous size," with the head of a dog, said to be typical of his kind. He was later baptized and martyred. However, in another version (this one from Germany), Saint Christopher is depicted as a giant cynocephalus who ate human flesh and performed many atrocities. He meets the Christ child later and carries him across a river, as in tradition (the name Christopher means "bearer of Christ") and repents for his sinful behavior. He is baptized and becomes human, dedicating himself to serving Christianity and became a soldier saint.

There are far more fascinating details in the story than I relayed here in extreme simplicity, but that's a very simple view (the story is actually very specific about different regions and even the unit in which he served).

Other depictions of cynocephali exist in certain Christian traditions, with Ahrakas and Augani sometimes being depicted with dog heads in Coptic Christian tradition, in the life and legend of Saint Mercurius.

Bestiaries also got pretty wild with the creatures depicted therein, many of which were also mentioned in classical sources (such as the Herodotus quote earlier in this post). The image above is from between 1357 and 1371, in a work called The Voyage and Travels of Sir John Mandeville, or simply Mandeville's Travels, the memoirs of a man who traveled across the Middle East, India, and even as far as China. Medieval bestiaries also recorded all the same creatures shown here: a monopod or sciapod, a cyclops, a blemmy, and a cynocephalus, each different civilizations of beings said to dwell across the world (and often cited in multiple sources over considerable spans of time, which generally cite the same or similar regions for each civilization, which I've always found very interesting).

Mentions of the cynocephali span across centuries, such as in works by scribe Paul the Deacon, a Benedictine monk, and they are even mentioned in the Nowell Codex, a surviving Old English work containing Beowulf (as well as a work of the life of Saint Christopher and Wonders of the East, among others). They are also acknowledged in the works of multiple noteworthy explorers, including but not limited to Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus, Giovanni da Pian del Carpine, Ibn Battuta, and Piri Reis.

With that, I think that's a decent overview! Hope you enjoyed the post.

And stay tuned for news and updates on a major [werewolf/fantasy/adventure/horror/epic] book release later this year!

If you like my blog, be sure to follow me here and elsewhere for much more folklore and fiction, including books, especially on werewolves! You can also sign up for my free newsletter for monthly werewolf/vampire/folklore facts, a free story, book previews, and my other sundry projects and works, such as plushes.

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[ticklystuff]

Day 10: Special Delivery!

a/n: ler!tighnari, ler!cyno, lee!alhaitham from my own personal tickletober list!

———

Alhaitham sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose irately. If he had one mora for every time Kaveh ignored his reminders that he indeed could take care of himself, then Alhaitham could finally afford to build a separate house to kick the blond to. Alas, Alhaitham's words had fallen on deaf ears yet again and he watched as Cyno and Tighnari busied themselves around his own kitchen, storing away the myriad of groceries that currently took up his counter space.

"You know I don't need you guys to do this, right?" Alhaitham stood with arms folded, foot tapping impatiently against the kitchen tile. Archons, how he despised unannounced company.

"Well, Kaveh specifically asked us to when we ran into him," Tighnari mentioned, arranging a variety of fruit in an empty basket. "He said you wouldn't do it while he's gone."

Alhaitham snorted, a claim further from the truth. "Well, that's wrong. It's not like putting away groceries is a special skill. Kaveh just likes to do everything himself and will throw me out of the kitchen if I try to help and I don't like dealing with that, so.."

"Can I have one?" Cyno held up a bag of cookies from one of the grocery bags, giving Alhaitham an expectant glance, to which the scholar just shrugged his shoulders, watching as he tore open the bag.

"Personally, I think it's very nice of him," Tighnari said, walking over to the now empty counter. "Not sure about you, but I'd love if a certain someone would make sure I'm well taken care of while they're away, but that's just me."

Cyno continued to nibble on the cookie in hand, oblivious to the comment made.

"Well, I can take care of myself without his help," Alhaitham shook his head, imagining Kaveh writing out a laundry list of things for Tighnari and Cyno to purchase, "but thanks. How much do I owe you both?"

"Oh, no need! He paid us in advance when we ran into him."

"I see," Alhaitham said, looking between the two, beginning to make small subtle steps out of the kitchen to the front door. "Well, if you're both done here, I suppose I can show you out, then."

"Ah, wait!" Cyno spoke up, having finished the snack in his hand, looking over at Tighnari. "Aren't we forgetting something?"

There was still more??

"Ah, right!" Tighnari's ears stood on end once he seemingly came to the same conclusion that only Alhaitham was left unaware about.

"Well, I'm sure it can wait another day—"

"No, no, it'll only take a minute!"

He observed as the two approached him, a shred of hope that maybe they'd change their minds and walk through the front door right now, but sadly, things didn't seem to want to go his way and his eyes widened at the feeling of four hands, two at each of his sides, digging in, not painfully, but..

"Ngh! W-What is thihis?"

He gritted his teeth, trying to step away from prodding fingers, yet the two were persistent, side stepping alongside Alhaitham. His best attempts at a glare were overthrown by the smile slowly creeping across his lips, causing his eye to twitch in the most unsightly way.

"Kaveh wanted us to make sure you at least smiled a little bit while he's away," Tighnari finally explained, poking away at Alhaitham's ribs.

"I'm not sure it's working, though," Cyno seemed disappointed, doing his best to skitter his hands along Alhaitham's side. "He said this would work."

If anything, the fact this was also Kaveh's idea made Alhaitham want to resist the duo's attempts even more, steeling himself as he fought the urge to smile and laugh. He batted at their hands, backing up and out of the way to dodge the hands that reached for him, but it was all in vain as Cyno hopped around and behind him, cornering Alhaitham between the two, allowing Cyno to reach into his underarms unexpectedly, while Alhaitham fought off Tighnari from the front.

"G-Gahahaha! Okay, okahahay! Stahahahahap!!"

"Mission success, evacuate the premises!" Cyno exclaimed dramatically once laughter started to fill the room, stepping away from Alhaitham to grab Tighnari by the wrist, dragging him to the front door, leaving a giggly Alhaitham to recover on his own. He did manage to catch a glimpse of Tighnari waving at him as they left, but the two were gone so quickly, Alhaitham didn't get the chance to wave back.. or chew them out.

With a sigh, Alhaitham let himself fall to the floor, butt hitting the ground with a 'thud', already exhausted from having to unexpectedly interact with the two. He leaned back with his arms, legs sprawled out on the floor, imagining how the conversation between Kaveh, Tighnari, and Cyno went and the silliness of making Alhaitham smile as part of his "care package". How bothersome..

Well, whenever Kaveh returned home, Alhaitham certainly wouldn't need a care package to make him smile.

[e-vay]

Evay QA Bulk Post 4

Here's another roundup of questions! I'm sorry if you don't see your question answered here. I tried answering as many as I could handle. Thank you all for reaching out :)

PERSONAL ASKS

Anon asked: I don’t know if this is too personal or not, but if you feel comfortable sharing, what prompted you to make a return after not posting at all for about 3 years?

A: That's okay, I don't mind you asking. To be honest, I just suffered from art block for a very long time. I couldn't get myself to draw no matter how hard I tried. I would sit myself down and try to force myself to do it, but I just couldn't. I don't know why it went away and I don't know why it came back, but suddenly my spark came back with a vengeance! I'm back to wanting to draw all the time! I think that's both the wonderful and awful thing about creativity: you can't force it. It sucks, but hopefully I can serve as proof to others who are going through it that you can spring back from it.

Anon asked: Hi E-vay! I couldn't help but notice a few Coraline references in some of your art work, are you a fan of the film too? By the way, Sonamy 4 eva!!

A: Yes I LOVE Coraline! I never read the book but I love the movie. It fills my spooky little heart and soul!

sonicalover1345 asked: Hey, quick question have you watched Hazbin Hotel Prime video? If you have what is or are your favorite characters?

A: I haven't yet! Honestly when the pilot first came out years ago, I didn't care for it. (I love Helluva Boss, did not care for Hazbin Hotel). But I've heard a million people recommending the series and I've heard the songs because of Tiktok and a lot of the songs sound great, so I have been meaning to check it out.

Anon asked: What is your favourite Tim burton movie? 🖤

A: I want to say Nightmare Before Christmas, but to be completely honest it's probably Mars Attacks! It's so campy and funny and it has that retro horror sci-fi film feel to it, and the cast rocks. It checks all the boxes for me. I even have a Mars Attacks! print hung up at my office at work:

wind-upbaby14 asked: Just curious but what happened to that hell hath series you made and why did you stop?

A: I went through a severe art block and hadn't drawn anything for a long time, even though I had the whole script for it written out. However since getting my mojo back, I've completely re-written the story and am working on it again. You'll see more of HHNF soon and I'm certain you'll like it better than it was meant to be originally!

Anon asked: I’m unsure if you’ve been asked this before, feel free to ignore if so but would you ever consider opening a Patreon? Y’know for earlier access and possibly spicy art🤔?

A: I did have a Patreon once upon a time, but it gave me severe imposter syndrome lol It put too much pressure on me to put out content that I thought was worthy enough for people to be paying for, so I ultimately closed it down. It doesn't mean I won't ever open it up again, but I don't have any immediate plans to do that. Also regarding the spice haha 😅 I appreciate your interest, but I just don't like to share that kind of content.

milangakokoros asked: I know you like sailor moon, I remember that you published a drawing that you did in 2007 somewhere, of Aurora sailor moon version. What other animes do you like? have you seen saint seiya? (it's my current hyperfixation)

A: I don't watch much anime anymore, but I used to be obsessed with Naruto. That's primarily what I would draw back in my dA days, but I lost interest in it a long time ago. I also loved Fruits Basket, Kill La Kill, One Punch Man and Attack on Titan. There are other shows I've watched, but those were the major series. I haven't seen the series you mentioned, sorry!

milangakokoros asked: Have you thought about making more games like the one you made on Halloween?

A: Absolutely! I don't know what the next game will be, but I definitely want to make more!

prophecyhyper asked: Do you post any of your drawings on any other sites?

A: I sometimes post my art on my Instagram and I sometimes post timelapses of my drawings on Tiktok, but I mostly post here on Tumblr!

aviles2003 asked: I've been meaning to ask you this about adaptations, what is your only favorite Video Game Movie you wanna see, already watched, and excited to see? (Sonic the Hedgehog Movies, The Super Mario Bros Movie, Detective Pikachu, Or Five Nights at Freddy's?)

A: So far my favorite game-movie adaptation is the Super Mario Bros movie! I love it so much! I love that they kept the style of the game but made it a little more polished than what you'd get in the games. I loved the characters, I loved all the references within it, I loved the music. I just think it's a perfect adaptation. Of course I'm super excited for Sonic 3! I'm sure it's going to be great, I'm just praying that Amy will be in it! I need her in it :( I'd love to see a movie adaptation of Dead Space. That's one of my favorite games and ooh I think it'd make such a good horror film. I know they made animated movies for it, but I want it done in a proper hollywood horror way!

edwinflores428 asked: E-vay, since you're also a Beatles enjoyer, did you hear the new Beatles song 'Now and Then'?

A: I didn't know about this until you mentioned this in my inbox. Wow that was emotional! I can't believe they were able to make a song out of an old unreleased recording and really get to finally get closure for their band in a way. Just incredible!

Anon asked: hey, i logged in after a long time and i was just happy to see you’re still posting. i’ve been following since the deviantart days and i just wanted to say how much i enjoy your art. it has always brought me a lot of joy :)

A: This isn't an ask, but I wanted to include it just so I could tell those of you who send these kinds of messages to my inbox: Thank you ❤️ I don't know if you all realize how much it means to me to have your support. Whether you're new to my work or whether you've followed me since my deviantART days, it absolutely makes my day when I receive these kind of wonderful, positive messages. My only wish is that you didn't feel you needed to write me anonymously so I could thank you personally! But I'll respect your privacy ❤️ From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

-

MISC SONIC ASKS

Anon asked: I was wondering what your favourite brotherly head cannon would be between Sonic and Tails? :3

A: Even though Sonic's older and technically raised Tails, I love the idea of them sort of "raising each other." Sonic teaches Tails how to defend himself, how to navigate the world, how to do the right thing, but Tails is the one who teaches Sonic how to read and write, introduces him to philosophical discussions that Sonic finds really boring but actually helps him to be a better hero and be a better version of himself. I even like the idea of Tails being the one to teach Sonic how to play music. Sonic has a natural talent for it, but Tails is the one to teach him notes and chords, how to actually read sheet music, things like that.

umbrathehedgehog asked: Hey, I noticed that one piece about Sonic Prime. It's very nice! What did you like or not like about the show? Been seeing a lot of differing opinions on it and I'm really curious about what you thought!

A: Thanks so much! As a whole I'd say it was okay. It certainly wasn't the best Sonic media out there in my opinion but no way was it the worst. I understand it's a kid's show, but it was way too formulaic for me. It got to the point where I could pretty much bet "in 2 minutes Character A is going to seem like all is lost, then a loud explosion/sudden shake will happen, and they'll look up like 'whuAHHH???' and Character B will show up to help." That's fine, but not when it's happening multiple times every single episode. So to be honest, it wasn't a show that I looked forward to watching like I did with Sonic Boom. It was just something I had on because it was Sonic-related. But Sonic Prime had a lot of good character writing and the acting was great. They explored character relationships/dynamics and emotions that some other Sonic content hasn't done before, so I applaud them for that. It's mirroring what happened in Sonic Frontiers and I love that the franchise is willing to dig a little deeper on an emotional level like that. And I've said it before but I'll say it a million times more: Shadow was PERFECT! The positive of having Shadow portrayed so excellently far outweighed any negatives I could say for the show!

chrismantike asked: What’re your thoughts on longclaw (the owl from the sonic movie) does she exist in your AU as Sonic’s mom?

A: Well we didn't get to see very much of her, but I loved her design! She was very majestic and beautiful and kind. None of the characters or storyline from the live action movies are part of my AU.

-

MY OCs/AU ASKS

Anon asked: So when’s did aurora learn that she could turn invisible? And did she use it to pull a prank on her parents making them think she disappeared

A: Aurora discovers her light abilities when she's young (think about preteen age), but she doesn't fully know what all she can do yet. It takes a lot of experimenting and studying with Uncle Tails to figure out everything she can do. He is the one who tells her that if she can bend light, she should be able to use it to cloak herself. Tails and Sonic obviously mean she should use it as a defensive move, but Aurora instantly thinks it's the perfect power for pranks! Picture a lot of objects "floating" around the house with a lot of phony "OooooOOoooOOOO" ghost noises haha

Anon asked: Is aurora a comic book fan? If so what’s her favorite series

A: Aurora can enjoy super hero related stuff, but she's not an avid fan of it and I would say she does not read comics. Aurora is more into fantasy/romance books. Ruff is the one who is into comic books :) His favorite would be Batman.

Anon asked: I love your idea of Aurora and Sage being close friends, I really think that fits! That being said, do you think Sage and CC would get along?

and gale-gentlepenguin asked: I’m curious on how Sage would interact with Aurora and CC? I know it would probably be seperate universes but it would be fun to see how Eggman’s daughter reacts to Sonics daughter and a sentient AI of equal intellect

A: Thank you! I've been thinking about it and I like the idea of Sage and CC being rivals, but in a very cheeky, friendly way. Sort of like Sonic and Knuckles. Sage and CC would make everything into a competition to see who can solve this problem fastest or who can simulate something best, to determine who is truly the more intelligent of the two AIs. But again, not in a toxic way. In a "I have to be the best version of myself in order to beat you because the respect I have for you is insanely high" kind of way. And Sage could playfully tease CC for wanting to become organic because it'd be a "step backwards" in her evolution, but really she'd work to find a way to help make CC's dream come true.

antooogamer asked: Hello, I already know why Diamond is white and Boon's color is for Aurora, but now I have a question about Cinder, why is he Orange? :^

A: Orange is in the same color family as red and pink, so I think it still works. As far as color theory, in my AU Aurora has a grandma who is yellow and Shadow's fur includes red, so by blending those colors you can get orange. It's the same reason why Nova is purple, it's a blend of colors from their lineage. I tried Cinder out in several different colors but orange is ultimately what fit him best.

animefan299110 asked: After seeing your artwork of Sage and Aurora interacting, I got to ask: Do they hang out a lot or is Sage like a cousin/big sister who visits all the time?

A: They're more like best friends than sisters/cousins. I know people draw Sage growing older and stuff but I personally headcanon that she'd stay in the form of a child because she feels no need to grow up. But once she's friends with Aurora, then I could see her "aging" up alongside Aurora so that she always matches her friend. It's just a headcanon of mine for now and that could ultimately change in the future.

Anon asked: Has Aurora ever been to space before if so what were her thoughts. Was she like markiplier with the whole space is so cool song.

A: Aurora DESPERATELY wants to go to space more than anything! But for most of her life she hardly ever left her home. It isn't until she's grown up that she actually starts to properly explore the world. Eventually I want her to go to space, but it would be once she's living on her own.

skywriter97 asked: So I saw this one fanart comic (that I can't remember the name of) forever ago and in it Shadow had his emblem tattooed on his arm and it made me wonder (since you the best Sonic fan artist hands down no contest) does Sonamy/Shadora (or any of your characters kn your Au) have any tats or piercings anywhere? If so, what and where? (If the fur doesn't get in the way for them lol) (Votes go to Shadow being a tatted and pierced edgelord cuz that would be so 🔥🔥🔥👌👌👌😍🤩😍🤩🤩😍🥵🥵🤤🤤🤌🤌🤌)

A: You are just so sweet, thank you! You know I'm very pro tats and I love seeing what people think the different Sonic characters would get. For my AU, I only have two (technically three) characters depicted with tattoos. Amy's dad Clay Rose has two tattoos on his bicep: A heart with his wife's name in it, and then a matching little heart with Amy's name in it. Adult Knuckles has a simple "M.E." tattooed on his bicep. It's a reference to Knuckles' theme and also his dedication to the Master Emerald. Lastly, I have the human version of Cinder (but only the human version) with forearm sleeves that continue down his hands. So far those are the only characters I have with tattoos. As far as piercings, most of my characters have ear piercings but they don't often wear earrings. Blitz and Lulu are the only characters who always wears earrings. I could see Shadow getting at least an ear pierced, but I headcanon that with his rapid healing that it would almost instantly close if he didn't actively wear a piercing at the time.

Anon asked: I totally hope that Piper will have a girlfriend! Do you see her more with a girl or a boy?

A: I currently see PIper as demiromantic. She is currently not interested in anyone romantically or physically, and I don't want to diminish that part of her identity by saying 'Oh but she'll eventually end up with __." Of course, a headcanon is whatever you want so if you personally ship her with a woman that's cool with me!

Anon asked: Hey evay, i was looking at this old info of Amy, and It says that she wans't always at home, did Aurora had any issue with that? Did some part of her childhood she could say that she had mother issues? (Sorry if you can't understand, my english it's terrible 💀)

A: Your English is excellent! I wouldn't go so far as to say Aurora had mother issues. Amy wasn't completely absent from Aurora's youth, she was just working a lot so she wasn't constantly at home the way Sonic was. It would have made things a little awkward/emotional at times because that naturally made Aurora favor Sonic a little more when she was younger, but that also made the times she did have with Amy all the more special. Aurora never thought to herself "My mom has abandoned me because she's never home," it was more of a "Work is stupid and being grown up is stupid because it means Mom can't stay home and play with me all day." Aurora and Amy grow a lot closer as Aurora gets older and better understands the meaning of responsibilities and commitment.

Anon asked: Hi hi! I'm kinda new in the Sonic fandom and I've seen lots of your comics and content so far (That are great!) The shadora refs of their kids are just so *chef kiss*, when I looked at it, I told myself: "Damn, I wanna make ref sheets this great for my characters too!" I love the fact that you called them an horde! xD And the angst with Shadow's immortality must be amazing! Uh I'm getting out of the subject ^^'' I wanted to ask you if you planned or did anything with Silver? I don't think I saw anything from you with him And another question, if no one asked this before, are any of Shadora's kiddos immortal too? Or maybe they're "half immortal"? Like, they live longer than everyone else but still has a shorter lifespan than their dad I love your work! Keep going! ^^ And have a wonderful day :D

A: Wow, that's so kind of you to say! Thank you so much! I hope you do make ref sheets for your characters :) I haven't planned anything with Silver for my AU yet. To be honest, I don't know his character very well and I try my best to always keep the original characters in-character, so that's why I haven't done anything with him yet. But I recently purchased the volumes of IDW comics and I'm hoping to understand him better and then I will be more confident writing him! Secondly, none of the Shadora horde are immortal. They have stronger immune systems so they can heal faster and are less likely to get sick than the average Mobian, but they are still mortal and still age at a normal rate. Thank you for the questions and compliments!

Anon asked: I love the Shadora babies sm !! My question is..What excactly happend in the fight between Diamond and Cinder? Love your art btw<3

A: Thank you so much! I need to make a comic about it. When they were young they were all exploring the different zones and Cinder was really struggling with some of the obstacles so he was already getting quite aggravated. Diamond noticed this and offered to help because some problems are better solved as a team, and Cinder immediately gets pissed and tells her to buzz off. She gets upset that he snaps at her, and there's some escalation between the two and finally Cinder blows up at her (literally). He immediately regrets it as he did not mean to hurt her, but the damage is already done.

degux asked: What would happen if Metal Sonic ( somehow :v ) met CC ?

A: Hmm. Well, even though Metal Sonic is based on Sonic, I love stories that involve him having an identity crisis and ultimately deciding that he's not just going to be a clone. He's his own entity, right? They're alike, but they're not the same. I don't know where he'd be on that self journey by the time he meets CC, but she'd definitely see him as his own person, not as a Sonic copy. But likely he'd still be an antagonist, so they'd end up having to battle lol

milangakokoros asked: does team chaotix exist in the Aurora universe? and have they interacted with the Rose family?

A: They definitely exist in my AU, but I haven't completely decided what their roles are yet. I can see Vector becoming Cream's stepdad (I'm not passionate about the VanillaXVector ship but I know it's practically canon), and then that leads me down a rabbit hole (pun intended) of how does that affect the dynamics of Team Chaotix? I have some rough ideas but I need to spend more time on it.

Anon asked: Have you thought about introducing Vector or Team chaotix in your sonamy and Aurora comics? :0 I picture him being "Uncle Stanley Pines" from Aurora and the Hyena Boys.

A: I had to add this question immediately after because your idea of Grunkle Stan made me laugh out loud! Oh my gosh I love that!

Anon asked: hola, tengo una pregunta. Hace mucho que no veia tu contenido y veo que estas de vuelta me alegro! :) Mi pregunta es aurora no tenia un hermano? Si no mal recuerdo creo que tenia uno y de ser asi el caso, el también tendria sus propias aventuras? Lo poco que recuerdo de el es que estaba en un dibujo tuyo de navidad con toda la familia sonamy junta y otro donde aurora lo abraza. Me gustaría saber que fue de el

A: ¡Gracias! The character you're referring to was an OC made by my friend Nana, a Sonamy fankid named Spazz. I sometimes drew him interacting with Aurora because my friend Nana and I just liked to draw our characters interacting, but Spazz is not a part of my AU. Nana is no longer on tumblr so that's why there aren't any Spazz art/comics anymore.

Anon asked: Does Sonic’s Uncle Chuck exist in your AU?

A: No I don't include the Archie comics or characters at all

⚠‼️THIS QUESTION MIGHT BE TRIGGERING. SKIP IF YOU NEED TO. TW: INFERTILITY ‼️⚠ Anon asked: Hi e-vay! I’ve recently re-read your ‘Boom Baby’ comic & was wonderin’ - especially with all their attempts - did Sonic or Amy, either one, stuggle with infertility? If so, did they ever have any doubts of that “I’m pregnant” moment ever happening?

A: Infertility is a very real issue that many people (including those very close in my life) deal with. Although I do think it's very important for people to be able to see their experiences reflected in the media they consume to help them remember that they aren't alone in their experience, this is not something I wanted Sonic and Amy to have to deal with for Boom!Baby. The chapter where Sonic references making multiple attempts during a certain window of time was not meant to imply that they were struggling with infertility. It was instead supposed to show that now that they've both decided they want a child, Amy doesn't want to take any chances to make sure it happens lol. TMI - Even without fertility issues, getting pregnant is not always guaranteed so it can take a lot of planning and timing (and frankly, luck) to be successful. Super TMI - I headcanon that Sonic and Amy are already intimate A LOT so now that they're trying for a baby it's above and beyond and that's why Sonic is tired in that chapter lol

fireghost234 asked: Hi this is my first time asking you!!!, does sonic in your AU still have his swordfighting skills from black knight?

A: Thank you for the question! Personally I don't think he'd retain those skills after that experience, so no that's not a trait he has in my AU anyway.

madysonisbae19 asked: Okay so I’m listing to the Encanto soundtrack and when Surface Pressure came on tell me why I instantly thought of Diamond singing this song when she is down about being physically the strongest out of her family.

A: That song (and character) is so her! Thank you for pointing that out to me, I'm going to associate that with her now 🥰

Anon asked: Did Aurora actually got bullied in school?

A: In my stories Mobians don't really go to "school," but yes she was bullied by a group of other kids when she was little. I have a script for a comic for this, I just haven't drawn it yet.

Anon asked: I think I'm pretty sure you based post-Boom to make your comics, but do you think Prime to becanon to your comic continuity too?

A: My AU is a fluid situation haha It adapts as more Sonic content comes out and I get to pick what I want to include. That's what makes AUs fun! Hmmm, ultimately I'm going to say no, I don't think Prime is canon to my stories.

Anon asked: Hi e-vay! Just wanted to ask, will we ever see what happened with Sonic and Amy's wedding in your AU? We've seen Amy's pregnancy with Aurora and their first date, so it seems like another natural relationship landmark to make a shenanigans-filled story out of! Also, keeping on the Sonamy wedding topic, what's their guestlist look like? Are there any surprises in who's getting an invite and who isn't?

A: I definitely have a sonamy wedding comic in the works :) It's going to be multi-chaptered. I would love to answer your other questions but I don't want to spoil the surprise! 😜

SHIPPING ASKS

Anon asked: Not to sound weird or anything, but does Sonic have a go to move that seduces Amy? 💙🩷

A: He simply ✨exists✨

Anon asked: Does Sonic ever dream about Amy?

A: I mean, I think so 😉

Anon asked: Hi e-vay! I had a question for you that I've been wanting to know about. If you read Harry Potter or watch the movies, don't you think that Harry and Ginny's relationship is similar to Sonic and Amy? I know this is kind of random, but it's like Harry is the hero, and Ginny was always in love with him, but their relationship slowly developed throughout the books, especially the 6th book. And that's how Sonic and Amy have been throughout the years

A: Hello! I have seen the movies and I read some of the books, but I don't know the series all that well. Actually, I don't remember Ginny being in the movies much at all, so I was a little confused when she and Harry ended up together. Maybe there was more to it in the books that I just never read. So if I'm going solely based on the movies I've seen, I can't say that I see the correlation. But that's not to say you're wrong in thinking that :)

aurorathehedge6 asked: What's your favorite Sonamy art that you made?

A: Definitely My Gal, specifically the last couple of chapters. I put my whole heart into that story and I'm pretty proud of it.

essycogany asked: Hi! First, I want to say that I LOVE your work! You’re so talented and I couldn’t appreciate your stuff enough. How are you feeling about the new Sonamy material from this and last year? Things are really starting to become more obvious as the years go on. Hope you’re doing well. 💖

A: Thank you so much! I hope you're doing well too :) UGH!!! 😩💙💖💙💖💙💖 We have been fed SO WELL lately! I can't believe it, what a time to be alive! I'm still sure they won't ever make it canon, but I love the sweet little snippets we get and just how much Sonic and Amy's relationship has evolved over the years to be so much closer. And I giggle like a little maniac every time they're on screen together or they're side by side in marketing. It makes my heart SING!

Anon asked: Are you still a fan of of the OT3 hedgies (Sonamyshad) and are still a fan of shadamy? Will we see any dribbles about them. Your art is so pretty 😍🤩 I just wanna see more 🤣😅 sorry if that embarrassing!

A: That's not embarrassing, that's crazy kind of you to say! Thank you! Yes I do still adore those ships and need to draw them more. It just seems every time I go to draw something my hand gets possessed by the ✨spirit of sonamy✨😂 I promise I'll draw the others at some point!

Anon asked: Are there any ships that you just… don’t get? Not dislike or hate or anything, just one that you fully don’t understand the appeal for…? Cause Metal Sonic and Amy is a ship that kinda baffles me. Like most Amy ships have some appeal. Sonic is obvious, you’re Ms. Sonamy after all. But Shads, Silver, Blaze, and even Surge have fun dynamics, and Metal doesn’t really strike me as a character that is able to be shipped effectively… Thoughts?

A: There definitely are ships that I don't understand. But if I don't understand or don't like a ship (or fan theories, or whatever), I'd rather just not talk about them. I used to indulge in that style of arguing discussion when I was a kid but I don't do that kind of stuff anymore. If I don't get something I just say "That's not for me" and move along. I do support the MetAmy ship myself but it's not at the top of my ship list (lol). I like it because Metal Sonic is based on Sonic, and if they're meant to be similar and I believe that Sonic does care about Amy, then that logic would tell me that Metal cares about Amy, too. And even though Metal is a villain, Amy does care about his well being (just like she cares about everyone's well being). Metal Sonic is also one of the main reasons Amy and Sonic met in the first place, so I think she holds a special place in her heart for him, even if it's not 100% romantic. That's my reasoning, but I don't want or expect you to change your opinion.

Anon asked: Will tails and CC ever get married?

A: Whoa now, I've never even drawn them on an official date yet ;)

Anon asked: What tv shows would sonic and amy watch together?

A: I think a lot of feel-good comedies like Brooklyn 99, Bob's Burgers, Modern Family and Schitt's Creek.

*The next question is a Shadora Ask. Skip if you don’t like Shadora*

Anon asked: What would Shadow and Aurora’s fave show be?

A: They don't have similar tastes in shows, but I could see them both enjoying Only Murders in the Building and cut throat competition cooking shows like Hell's Kitchen.

*The next question is a Shadora Ask. Skip if you don’t like Shadora

gray3754 asked: How old would Amy and Sonic be when Aurora started to date shadow

A: I don't really do exact ages, but Sonic and Amy have Aurora roughly when they're in their mid-to-late 20s. So they would be in their mid-to-late 40s when Aurora and Shadow first meet.

*The next question is a Shadora Ask. Skip if you don’t like Shadora

aurorathehedge6 asked: What's your favorite Shadora art that you made? Also have Sonic, Amy, Aurora, and Shadow ever been on a double date?

A: Hmm, I think my fav Shadora art is the comic where Shadow and Aurora discuss her "wings" (back quills). It started out as just a fluffy piece but I think it really set the tone for their relationship in my stories. As far as a double date -- I could see them trying a double date early on when Shadow first states his intention to date Aurora, but it doesn't go well. Years later when Sonic is more accepting of their relationship I could see them occasionally going out for lunch/dinner together instead of just their weekly family dinners at home.

*The next question is a Shadora Ask. Skip if you don’t like Shadora

ticciticcicendy asked: I don't know if you do this question but has any of Aurora and shadows kids ever walked in on them?

A: Hahaha, Shadow is too savvy for that! He had the Shadora house built to essentially be a fortress, which also means the primary bedroom is practically a vault. Ain't nobody getting in there unexpectedly hahaha

*The next question is a Shadora Ask. Skip if you don’t like Shadora

lazypatrolpizzapersona asked: One question, is Aurora jealous when Shadow is with these girls?

A: I'm not sure what girls you are referring to? But Aurora is not a very jealous type.

*The next question is a Shadora Ask. Skip if you don’t like Shadora

zero-aurion asked: Quick question, in terms of lap pillows, for Tails and CC and Shadow and Aurora, who rests their head on the others lap more?

A: CC doesn't need to rest, but Tails is so soft that she just loves to lay against him so she'd definitely use him for a lap pillow more. BONUS POINTS for using his tails as a shawl around her shoulders! Shadow is more likely to rest his head in Aurora's lap. The way she strokes his quills is very soothing and makes him feel content. She also has thick thighs so very, very comfy for lap pillows!

--

Thank you all for the questions!

Evay QA Bulk Post 1

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[bluegekk0]

Apologies if this is a repeat ask, my mind is melting a bit cause of the heat, but are there any holidays or festivals that are celebrated in Dirtmouth?

Hi I know this ask is very old, but at the time I didn't have any worldbuilding related to holidays. Now I have some ideas, and I'd love to talk about them!

First, I want to mention how the year is divided in my AU. There are three seasons recognized in Hallownest: Snowmelt, Harvest and Nightfall. Snowmelt is their equivalent of spring, it lasts three months. Harvest is, as the name suggests, the season where most of the crops are harvested, it follows the warmest day of the year, and it also lasts three months. Nightfall is the longest season of the year lasting six months, and is characterized by the near absence of sunlight and snowfall.

I'll start with some celebrations that take place in Snowmelt. Also, just to not overcomplicate things, these are the holidays celebrated in Dirtmouth; things most definitely look different underground, but I want to focus on DIrtmouth as that's the key location of the AU.

New Day is their new year celebration, it is where the bugs reflect on the previous year and make wishes for the one that follows. Historically it was first celebrated on the day the snow melted for the first time, which gave the name of the season. A symbolic bonfire, which I'll mention later, is lit for the last time before Nightfall.

Flower Hunt and Love Day are two holidays that happen one after another. During the first one, the young ones gather flowers for a large bouquet while the adults sing, dance and drink. Flower petals are collected, many of which end up decorating the streets of Dirtmouth. The latter of the two, as you'd expect, is the day where bugs celebrate their love and appreciation for their partners, families and friends, gifts are shared and flower petals co

First Sow is a symbolic planting of the first seed, which will be harvested in the following season. A small feast is held during this day.

Sun Festival is the day which celebrates the hottest day of the year, and marks the end of Snowmelt. It's one of the biggest celebrations in Dirtmouth, with picnics, singing and dancing, and various competitions. Many merchants visit the town during this holiday to sell their wares and participate in the celebrations.

These are the holidays I came up with for the first season, and the ones I focused on the most. The other two seasons are still very much work in progress in this aspect.

I'll start with the three Harvest holidays I have so far.

The first one is Old Light's Dusk, which originated under the name Old Light's Dawn. It used to be a day dedicated to The Radiance, as her worship was a lot more widespread years before The Pale King's arrival. Now, it is the day that celebrates the end of her infection, with a symbolic basket of feathers being burnt and offerings being given to The Ghost of Hallownest memorial.

Harvest Fair is when all the fruits of the harvest are enjoyed, Dirtmouth holds the biggest feast of the year to celebrate. The holiday involves a lot of dancing, singing and, of course, drinking, with mead, wine and cider offered for free to anyone who joins the celebrations. The Troupe also prepares a special performance at the Longhouse.

Spirits' Rest is the remembrance day of those who passed. I don't have many details for this one yet, but I do think it would involve visiting the graves and lighting a symbolic light.

And lastly, the two Nightfall holidays so far.

The season begins with Sun's Farewell, a day where the bugs symbolically say goodbye to the sun and prepare for the long night that will soon come. The main focus of this day is the bonfire in the center of the town, which is lit for the first time and then kept ablaze for the remainder of the season.

The second holiday I have some ideas for, at this moment, is the Fire Festival. This one was introduced fairly recently, after The Troupe settled in Dirtmouth. Those who wish to celebrate gather around a fire and watch Grimmkin put on a show full of fiery tricks and dances.

---

Okay, this is all I have for now. I'm still slowly working on this part of the worldbuilding, but it's been really fun so far! I hope you like it, and I'm open for any suggestions for more holidays!!

[melpomenelamusa]

Poison - Chimeras

~Original story~

Previous

CW: Emotional whump, little description of emeto, grieving, mention of death, mention of suicidal thoughts.

Warrick and Elafi had gone out into the forest to gather fruit.

Having a new mouth to feed was never in Warrick's plans when he decided to move out of the city. And although he had decided to take care of the deer boy, with all that entails, he also knew that this meant a considerable change in the management of his finances.

"When you live in the wild, you have to be very cautious," he explained, as they both entered the foliage. The warm morning light filtered through the leaves above their heads and the smell of the dew-damp earth was pleasant. "She is the one who rules here, not us. One must adapt to her, take what she offers and be grateful. With the right knowledge and tools, we will not lack anything in this forest."

“Mom and Dad used to tell me that, too,” Elafi said, following the man’s footsteps as they zigzagged through the roots in the soil. “We went camping in the mountains a couple of times. Some say that environmental damage caused the Chimera children to appear, so it’s a theme I feel I resonate with a lot. We need to care for and respect what’s left of nature.”

“Yes, that’s right,” Warrick replied. “This is one of the few large forests left in the country. The world has changed a lot in the last few years.”

Warrick taught Elafi how to recognize which mushrooms were edible and which were poisonous, which berries he could pick from the trees and which would kill him, how to find his way to the different cardinal points, how to find water, which seeds he could bring home and which ones he had to leave in the ground to continue their course, etc.

"For example, these fruits are edible," the man said, tearing off some small orange spheres from a branch and then putting them in his mouth. "Try them."

He handed some of those berries to Elafi and he ate them. The boy's face twisted into a grimace and his companion burst out laughing.

"Yeah, they need a little more time to ripen. When they're red, they'll stop being sour and they'll taste much better. Just don't confuse them with queenberries, which are poisonous. Do you know why they're called that? Several centuries ago..."

It was too much information to learn in one day, as understanding how to survive was no easy task, but with practice and time Warrick was sure Elafi would master it.

"Good," the man finished, observing the baskets full of mushrooms, fruits and seeds. “Let's take this loot back to the cabin and see what we can keep and what we can sell.”

As the days passed, Elafi began to get used to his new life. There were times, when he was alone in his new room in the cabin and when he saw the photograph of his parents, which they had brought from his old home, that tears would fill his eyes and his heart would be overcome by the feeling of loss. But when he thought of all the possible fates he could have suffered since that fateful day, he felt extremely grateful for his current situation.

Warrick was a mystery. He never talked about his past, whether he had a family or what he did for a living before moving to the forest eight years ago. The only time Elafi dared to ask about the subject, the man answered him in an enigmatic way.

"I was alone," he told him. "And I wanted to be alone."

Sometimes Elafi wanted to dig deeper, driven by curiosity. He had seen a picture of a boy wearing a mortarboard several times when he came in to sweep Warrick's room. He didn't know who he was, but he could see a certain resemblance to the man, in the eyes and the shape of his cheekbones.

Another important detail was Warrick himself. His body was large and strong. He knew how to handle weapons expertly, as Elafi had seen him do when he went hunting, and he kept several around the house, including his shotgun, several knives and blades, an axe, and a couple of pistols. He also seemed to have knowledge of medicine, biology, and many other disciplines. Despite everything, he was a calm and compassionate guy, who seemed to hide behind a serious and even indifferent face.

He was certainly a peculiar person. However, it was not until Warrick began to be absent that Elafi began to think something was wrong. The man began to spend all his time outside, disappearing deep into the woods, and when he was in the cabin he spent most of his time in his room or in the shed. He was taciturn, and although he never said it out loud, Elafi could almost suspect that he was avoiding him. The teen, out of respect, didn't say anything and gave him his space.

For the past week, the cabin had been filled with an awkward silence and tension of unknown origin. Elafi's flight instincts kicked in again, but he did his best to silence them, limiting himself to doing his chores and then staying in his room reading. But the final straw came the day Warrick didn't come home.

He had left early in his pickup truck, heading into town. Elafi assumed he would show up around dinnertime; but even though it was pitch black outside the cabin, illuminated only by the weak rays of a waning moon, the man didn't appear.

The teen couldn't help but feel an emptiness growing in his gut. He barely had the appetite to eat some beans and tortilla and decided to go to bed early.

The next morning, both Warrick and the pickup truck were still absent. Elafi couldn't take it anymore, overcome with worry. He left the cabin and began walking into the woods, his head full of gloomy thoughts that fluttered around his brain like flies.

“Has Warrick had enough of me? Am I a burden to him?”

It couldn't be. When Elafi lost everything, the man did every possible thing so he could help him get his life back. He didn't try to take advantage of him or his condition, always treating him like a normal child, like a normal human being. So, were things related to Warrick's mysterious past going on? Elafi couldn't get involved in such matters, not while Warrick didn't want to talk about it directly.

Letting out a sigh, he just hoped the man was okay. He continued walking through the trees, lost in his thoughts, when he spotted some red berries on a bush.

"These are the fruits Warrick showed me that day," he thought. He remembered the sour taste of the orange berries and how the man explained that when they turned red they would taste sweet. Elafi plucked one, wiped it on his shirt and put it in his mouth. It was sweet.

He plucked some more and started walking back to the cabin, eating a few more along the way. When he arrived, he saw that the pickup truck was already parked in the driveway. Warrick was inside, sitting on one of the dining chairs with an open can of beer in his hand. When he saw Elafi come in, he greeted him with a silent nod. Elafi didn't say anything either. He walked to the sink and began washing the berries he had picked and hadn't eaten yet. He drained them and placed them in a small bowl which he then placed on the table.

“I'm... glad you're back.”

Elafi was turning around to go to his room when Warrick's voice stopped him:

“Wait.”

The man looked sad. The teen has never seen him so sad.

“Sorry for that, it's just... These days haven't been easy and... I think a part of me still can't get used to having company again.”

Elafi swallowed. Suddenly, he felt a nausea rising in his stomach.

“I know I owe you an explanation, and I will give it to you. It's perhaps a conversation we should have had much earlier, but I just didn't want to have it, I…”

But Elafi wasn't listening anymore. The boy felt something sour rise in his throat and before he could answer, he ran away.

~

Warrick couldn't help but feel a little guilty. He knew he owed Elafi a good explanation. The last thing he wanted right now was for the boy to lose trust in him. Maybe he had been too selfish… He wasn't completely alone anymore, and his life wasn't just for him anymore.

As he spoke, Warrick looked at Elafi standing in front of him. His eyebrows were slightly furrowed and his face looked paler than usual.

“I know I owe you an explanation, and I will give it to you. It's perhaps a conversation we should have had much earlier, but I just didn't want to have it, I…”

However, he stopped talking the instant Elafi ran off. Warrick couldn't help but wonder if he had said something wrong, if he had really made a mistake and the boy was now upset and distrustful of him. These thoughts barely lasted microseconds, because the moment he heard the sound of a thud, followed by strong gagging, all that stopped mattering.

Warrick ran to the bathroom, where he found Elafi on the floor, vomiting into the toilet bowl. His thin body was shaken by shivers and soon his forehead was beaded with sweat.

"Hey, calm down," the man said. He wet a piece of paper towel and used it to wipe the boy's face. For a fraction of a second the corner of his eye detected a red substance inside the toilet. That scared him.

Elafi clutched his stomach with one arm, letting out gasps through his teeth.

“I’ll take you to your room.”

Taking the boy into his arms, Warrick walked out of the bathroom. As he passed the dining room, he saw the bowl filled with bright red berries on the table.

Carefully he laid Elafi on his side on the mattress, handing him a pillow to hug. He brought a bowl over and placed it beside the bed, in case the nausea returned. Then he searched the cupboard for some pills and returned with a glass of water.

“Take this slowly.”

Warrick pulled out the chair and settled in it, waiting for Elafi to drink the medicine.

“Those berries on the table... Were you eating them?”

Elafi nodded. Warrick just hummed in response.

“Those were unripe queenberries. They're poisonous. They're easily confused with other edible berries.”

“I... I was wrong…”

The boy spoke in a barely audible voice.

“It's a common mistake”, added Warrick, seeking to spare him further embarrassment. “It's not a deadly poison, you'll be fine in no time. I tell you from experience.”

The conversation died and a tense silence fell over the room.

“I'll let you rest,” said Warrick, standing. “Call if you need anything.”

Hours passed until dusk gave way to night. Warrick knocked on the half-open door of Elafi's room before entering. The boy was still in bed, awake.

"Hey, I brought you some spinach cream in case you're hungry."

Warrick settled back into his chair, while Elafi sat down and began to take slow sips from his plate with his spoon.

"I'll tell you everything," Warrick said. "For real this time."

Elafi watched him. There was no reproach in his gaze, but perhaps a hint of anxiety. Warrick took a deep breath.

"My son died yesterday."

The spoon Elafi held between his fingers slipped and fell into the bowl of cream, sinking. Had the context been different, Warrick would have laughed.

"I'm... I'm so sor…"

"Yes, my son died yesterday, eight years ago," the man interrupted, before sighing. "A fucking drug addict ran him over. I wasn't there for him."

He settled back in his chair, thinking back.

“I used to be a firefighter. I was excited by the idea of ​​being a hero in this shitty world. And it's not like I saved lives every day. Those were the hardest days, but the rewards were worth it: the grateful smiles from families, the hopeful looks from people. I really felt like a superhero. And yet I couldn't save my own son, always too busy to even spend time at home. My ex-wife always blamed me for it, that's why after the funeral she asked me for a divorce.”

He ran a hand through his gray-flecked hair.

“In less than a month I had lost my only son and the woman I loved. I didn't want to stay in the city anymore. A friend sold me this cabin and I moved in search of peace of mind. Maybe that way the guilt would lessen enough for me not to want to put a bullet in my mouth.”

He chuckled.

“But I like living here. I discovered a connection with nature that I never imagined I would have. It's also much quieter than city life, although I admit that sometimes the memories become unbearable. They never really go away. I like to visit Devin's grave around this time of year, maybe so his spirit won't feel like his dad is still abandoning him.”

There was a sob and Warrick noticed that Elafi was crying.

“You really are a sensitive boy,” he commented, running his rough thumb over one of the boy’s cheeks, wiping away the tears. His hand stayed there for a few more seconds before pulling away. “Devin would be about your age now.”

Elafi finished wiping his face, sniffing.

“I’m sorry,” he repeated, but his gaze reflected a certain calm. “Thank you for telling me your story.”

"No problem," Warrick said, standing up. "I'll let you finish your spinach cream in peace."

He left the room and headed for the kitchen. He took the bowl full of the shiny queenberries and threw them into the compost bin. Suddenly Warrick found himself feeling in a better mood, as if he could now breathe clean, detoxified air. He had spent so many years holding on to those memories that constantly poisoned his heart, blaming himself and wondering if his life was still worth living. 

Today he confirmed again that he was worth it.

Next

Taglist: @scoundrelwithboba @morning-star-whump @lancedoncrimsonwings

With this chapter we finish this section of context and a bit of flashback. "Chimeras" will go on a little hiatus. The story will return later with new chapters, including a new enemy that Elafi and Warrick will face. I'm also working on the stories of other chimera children that I plan to publish later. This project excites me and makes me very happy.

Thanks to those who read this far! ⭐

[third-arch]

My Trafalgar Law HC's!! pt.15🤍🤍

ft. Kanna!! Longer Edition

Here are 5 random things that made Law bawl his eyes out:

-The story of Hatori and Kana Sohma

-The ending of Deemo

-The true ending of Undertale

-Rengoku's death

-The ending of Yomawari: Night Alone

Furthermore, Hatori Sohma is his favorite character in Fruits Basket.

I think one of the things that Law really likes about Kanna is that he sees Lami's kindness and personality in her a lot. It's probably what sparks his protectiveness and is more understanding of her. He enjoys the idea of what could've been.

I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but since it is a really really old HC of mine, I'll say it again:

I think Law has some musical talent. I think he can sing, play some of the piano, the ocarina, the tambourine, and write sheet music.

But, it's been awhile, so he'll need some warming up.

When he first heard "I Need You" by BTS, he learned how to play it on the piano.

I think their HYYH Era in general might've helped him pick up playing the piano a bit more.

Speaking of BTS, Kanna reminds him of V.

To Kanna, Law reminds her of Suga.

If Kanna and Law were tarot cards, here's what they'd be:

Law-The Moon, Emperor

Kanna-The Sun, Empress

Together-The Lovers

I honestly don't know what his favorite season is. I think it would make sense for summer, spring or fall to be his favorites.

However, I do think he would hate the winter, since he seems like someone not particularly fond of snow or cold weather.

In a prompt list I did with an old friend, the question asked was,

"Board games, card games, tabletop games and such, what game do they like to play together or with the crew? Who’s good at what?"

Here was my response for Kanna and Law:

"Law and Kanna play chess. They bond a lot over it. They also play BS. Which is a game where you put down cards and call BS if you don’t believe them. If they’re not lying you have to take all the cards. If they are then they have to take all the cards. Winner gets down to 0 cards. Law and Kanna are equally good at this game and chess. Law finds it really attractive that she can spot his lies LOL."

Another game I think they'd play together is Fluttering Souls.

They might've also tried Karuta, but Law was too busy for it.

In that same prompt list, the question was asked,

"What store would they shop in at the mall? Or what area? How about law? Would he stand outside this store and wait?"

Here was my response:

" I am from the US. So, my answers will be based from there.

Law would probably be someone who’s very introspective in his selections and will basically slowly narrow it down if he doesn’t know what he wants, regardless. He’d spend a lot of time analyzing and exhausting all of the options on price and quality before he buys anything. You’ll be spending a lot of time with him if you go shopping with him.

- As for US mall stores, I think Law would shop at: 

Vintage Stock

Zumiez

Men's Wearhouse

Yankee Candle

Old Navy

Rue/Forever 21

Hollister

Pacsun

Tillies

(I put a number based on how long you’d be here, Tillies being in and out and Vintage Stock being you’re never seeing your family again.)

I think in general, law would shop in bookstores, clothing stores, or stores with like music and stuff for his coin collection. He’d be on eBay alot also looking at the prices of coins and always keeping tabs. He has a journal dedicated for coin collecting and like writes everything down. He’s very offline."

In another couple's prompt list I did, the question was asked,

"What do they think of each other's family? And how does the family feel?"

Keeping in mind that I made Kanna to be Koby's older sister, here was my response:

"Law is really interested in meeting her family. Kanna doesn’t talk much about her family, but Law thinks that they seem really awesome. Kanna feels the same. I’m sure that Law would be very awkward when if he meets Kanna’s family.

Ideally, I’m sure their families would adore each other and like seeing Kanna and Law together. Koby and Lami would get along really well, too. Lami would adore Kanna, and Koby and Law would eventually gain a mutual respect for one another. Kanna’s dad would be the only one who struggles to like Law."

No Surprises Spoilers Ahead

In a prompt list, I answered a question regarding Kanna and Law's dynamic. Here is what I said:

"This couple can best be described as 'right person, wrong time' with a sun and moon dynamic. Had they met in another life, they’d be a very happy couple with a daughter (Taiga) and possibly a little brother (Ame). 

After Dressrosa, Law helped Kanna remember how to love through his kindness. While Kanna began to love once again, Law learned to become vulnerable. Together, they were eventually able to stop “running away” from each other and reciprocate their love. Their relationship took time, patience, and many sacrifices. It was a rocky road and they still struggle at times. 

Yet, their love was a choice, and neither regretted it one bit."

[2kyo7]

𝐂𝐀𝐈𝐌; 𝟎𝟒

metkayina!reader x avatar 2

"SO GOOD!" TUK SHOUTED, wanting everyone to know the goodness of the fruit she'd just bitten into, its pink essence lining her lips and cheeks. The same fruit you'd brought to her family in a basket earlier that week and no one dared to eat from your gift either, except Tuk who absent mindedly picked out the food when no one was looking due to its beautiful color. "No Tuk, don't eat that!" Kiri said, attempting to snatch the item away from her younger sister's hand, a game of cat and mouse being played until their father interjected. "Knock it off baby girl, just let your sister eat."

"But Dad..."

"And I don't wanna hear another word about it." Jake was fast to shut down his daughter's words of opposition, he understood Kiri's dislike for you after your harsh treatment these past few days, but he also understood why you had such a hard time accepting them. Neytiri hissed at her mate, "Jake...your daughter is not in the wrong, that girl has been cold to us for several days and has taught our children nothing of this new world." She reasoned with Jake to prove that their Kiri's actions were just, half scolding him for taking the side of someone he barley knew. "For all we know these fruits are infested with bugs."

Jake considered his wife's words for only a moment before jumping to choose a fruit for himself, a yellow one covered in spikes caught his eye as he took it out of the basket and devoured the snack in one large bite. He expected the fruit to be bitter and sour, instead his taste buds were met with an refreshing, almost enlightened flavor filled to the brim by juice.

The Sully's watched in interest while Jake's eyes opened wide, "this is pretty damn good. 'Tiri you gotta try one." Neytiri wondered if his reaction was exaggerated for the sake of being kind as she hesitantly took a bite of the fruit Jake held out to her. She would of course, never show her true feelings to the tasteful gift, opting to continue arguing against Jake. "Just because she brings us fruit, does not mean we can allow her to torment our children any longer."

Lo'ak winced at his mother's wording, sure you had not been the warmest towards them, but he's more than positive you could be much worse. "Torment is a strong word Mom, more like—" He found himself caught on how to better describe you in an attempt to salvage your reputation in the eyes of his mother. Sure he had not spoken to you as much as the others, and it wasn't because he'd been scared of you by any means, more like intimated.

Yes, Lo'ak can't remember the last time a girl "intimidated" him besides his own mother. You'd walked up to the foreign na'vi without any hesitation at all, while the rest of your people only stood and gawked—he always wondered if Ronal had not said what she had, was there any possibility of the two of you...being more? Not to mention your eyes, they were striking, pierced into the soul of anyone you simply glanced to. At least, that's what Lo'ak felt whenever he'd barely even be in your line of sight. But most of all, you were respected by everyone in your tribe—something Lo'ak would never accomplish, not now, not ever.

Sometimes he wondered if the intimidation sprouted from a place of envy. The people were always quick to flock to your side when in need, you were constantly praised for anything by all, young and old. Never ending stories were told to him by the other Metkyania whenever he'd ask, he sometimes questioned their reality, but every great legend has their fonnies too.

If only Lo'ak had the courage to speak this amazement he'd grown for you, maybe things would be different.

Kiri groaned at Lo'aks affinity towards you, "okay...she tolerates us, at most." Neytiri moved to wrap an arm around her daughter to relieve some of the stress she felt, "maybe the two of you are more alike than you know." Neteyam chimes in, now holding his own fruit that he broke in half to share with Tuk who happily accepted. "You both share a love for animals and stuff, that's why you butt heads so often."

"No, we butt heads because she provokes me." Leaning into her mother Kiri continued to think of every interaction she'd ever had with you, most of course, terrible but she did recall a time where you'd taught her about an animal she'd subtly caught interest in. But nothing could outweigh the negative affect your words and actions left. "Learn to get along with ___, alright? Let everything that's happened this far go. Maybe this is just her teaching best she knows how." Everyone went silent after Jake's words, he knew what it felt like to be looked down upon because you're an outsider, but he also knows what it feels like to be accepted when proving your worth. "Your mother wasn't exactly open to the idea of me comin' into the clan either, look at us now."

Neytiri grumbled something inaudible beneath her breath, at the mention of her actions so long ago being compared to now's events. The story was something they've heard a million times before, but never did they think it would be applied to their own lives. "She'll come around kids, I promise." Jake grabbed ahold of Neytiri's hand lovingly a small smile adoring his face.

The Sully children looked to one another with looks of uncertainty, only hoping their father's words would come to fruition.

You hummed to yourself, following behind Tsireya as the both of you carefully watched the shore for any signs of life. She carried a round bowl that carried many small aquatic animals, all of the same species—though there were many slight differentiations between each of them. "I cannot wait to eat these Tsireya! This year's cook will be wonderful."  She nodded at your words in agreement, "hmm yes, the crabs grow bigger every year, maybe it is a good omen."

A good omen? "For what exactly?" Your question was simply an aloud thought, not particularly expecting Tsireya to answer. She shrugged, "who knows? For the clan's good health or..." Tsireya trailed off, her eyes looking to something within the near distance, "something else." Shifting your gaze to follow hers, your eyes landed upon the Sully children. Today's lessons were cancelled because of your chores, but from the looks of it they'd still gone out to enjoy the day. They laugh loudly amongst each other, splashing water and kicking up sand—sometimes picking one another to twirl around. Not a care in the world, they looked truly happy. Like a real family.

You find yourself staring a bit longer than intended, unable to pull away from the scene. There were many nights you dreamed of what they had, and even more where you woke up in cold sweat to the harsh reality that a dream is still only a dream. Pathetic, you think—jealous of a bunch of outsiders.

"Oh ___." Tsireya calls to you in a sweet soft whisper, she captured both of your hands in one of hers, "don't cry you're too narlor, your eyes go puffy and wide like a fish when you do." You let out a small laugh at Tsireya's playful insult as she began to lead further down the shore, hand never leaving yours.

narlor - beautiful

Many minutes passed and both you and Tsireya assumed the Sullys to be long gone, but instead a much shorter figure approached both of you. "Tsireya, ___! Wait for me!" The youngest Sully child ran to where you and your friend stood, releasing uneven breaths from her gasping lungs.

"Kaltxì Tuk."

"Kaltxì Tuktirey." You both greeted simultaneously. "Kehe silly, everyone calls her Tuk." Tsireya was fast to correct you, looking to the young na'vi herself for confirmation, "isn't that right?" Tuk bobbed her head up and down, "just call me Tuk! Not Tuktirey ____!" A smile grew on your face at her effortless energy and joy, it's something that you loved about all children her age. "Ah, Tuktirey is such a txur name." You lowered yourself to be more leveled to Tuk, your tail swinging widely behind you. "It's the name of a tsamsiyu after all."

kehe - no

txur- strong

tsamsiyu - warrior

Tuk's mouth stretched widely to voice something, but for a moment's time she looked to hesitate before speaking again. "____ please show me where those tasty fruits are! We really like them a lot!" Her hands formed a cup to emphasize her desperation, stretching the please extra long as a final touch. Your eyes went bright with happiness and smile growing even wider (if that was possible) a small deep intendment appearing on your right cheek while faint wrinkles form around certain features.

"I would love nothing more Tuktirey—" Tuk wraps the length of her arms around your waist, nearly tipping both of you over onto the ground, giggling wildly in the process. "Join us Reya," Your form now hunched over to grasp Tuk in an equally playful hold. Tsireya smiled warmly at the scene, leaning over to gather a few crabs. "Mother will be looking for me soon, you two go." An obvious excuse, but neither yourself or Tuk barely paid any mind as you hurriedly raced each other down the beach.

"Tsireya tell me—was this a good idea?" She jumped, spooked by the sudden deep base of a male's voice behind her, turning to greet him. "Oh Neteyam, hello. You scared me." Holding a hand to her chest to settle her racing heart, "you surprise me in more ways than one." Tsireya's slow pace came to a complete stop, allowing Neteyam a moment to catch up. "This was your doing? Very clever, how did you know about ___'s weakness for children!" Gasp, "You have been watching her, yes?"

Neteyam's lit up at the realization he'd been caught, ears lifting to stand straighter on his head. "W-well perhaps not watching, maybe simply seeing a how she treats Tuk and the other children. That is it." Tsireya places a hand over her quaking mouth to silence the eruption of giggles threatening her lips. "I'm afraid the difference is none."

"Believe me, I know she has not been the kindest to us, but I can tell in truth she's only scared—I couldn't blame her for it." He watches as you and his sister carefully submerged into the ocean's water a ways away, but even from that distance he could see the smiles of joy on both your faces. Tsireya turned to begin the short journey back home, continuing  conversation.  "Despite what many think, ____ is simply still a child in many ways."

"What ways?" Neteyam's interest had been perked, he followed behind Tsireya closely to hear her words. "I have no right to say, in fact, I've said more than enough as is." She shook her head from side to side in an collection of response and disappointment in her own self. "Please forget what I've told you just now, Neteyam." Tsireya paced fastened, the oldest Sully sibling took this as a sign to stop trailing behind his friend. "Forgive me — I have overstepped many lines."

[kitsumidori]

This took so long! And the reason was that I keep getting creative burn-out.

I've been wanting to do a headcanon post for the main siren character's (excluding the Calypso's) and this took way longer than I thought it would.

Key note

Along with the tattoos, another noticeable trait is the elf-like ears, each in different shapes and lengths.

Like in cannon, only 6 women can become sirens. There were instances of fake sirens which were women using make up to make tattoos and fake elf ears.

Sirens have a slightly longer life span than most humans, likely due to their demi-god status.

For now, I don't have a lot of headcanons for Sirens specifically. If I have more ideas, I'll update this.

Lilith

She gained a slight mutation due to both the Eridium usages and the forced ejections by Jack.

Freckles because she looks cute with them.

(Also I remember her vaultlander figure description called her the most powerful ginger in the world)

Hates Scythids. When she and her team first encountered them, she immediately jumped on Bricks shoulder and refused to get off until those "cockroaches from hell" were gone.

Was caught one night having a secret tea party with Butt Stallion (In her defense, she wanted a pony since she was 7).

Immediately adopted Angel once the whole Jack is dead thing settles down.

Maya

She's terrified of heights (somewhat cannon from her Runner dialog) mainly uses her wings for combat.

Before she came to Pandora, her hair was so long, that it was starting to trail behind her.

She cut it to her main style shortly after arriving at Pandora.

Did at one point consider going back to Athenas, but after Ava's situation with those monks, she ultimately decided to stay.

Has the biggest ears out of all the other sirens, but doesn't like to show them.

Axton did call her Dumbo once, she suplexed him and no one dared to call her that again.

Has a surprisingly strong sense of smell (somewhat cannon in the Wam Bam dlc where she was able to sense Hammerlocks moustache)

Loves mangos, like REALLY loves mangos. Give her a basket full of them and she'll die for you (medaforicly)

Angel (TW: mentions of abuse)

The scar on her left eye was from Jack trying to install an Echo Eye on her. Her body rejected it and Jack didn't even bother to remove it.

When Lilith found out, her silent fury was loud enough to scare a flock of Raks.

Struggled with eating without throwing up during her recovery, took her awhile to eat solids.

Pre-rescued: Jack would constantly put make-up on her not only to cover the bruises he gave her, but to also cover her freckles, a trait she gained from her mother.

Similar to Lilith, she gained a mutation from the Eridium usages, but her's is more noticeable due to years of constant Eridium ejections.

A lot of her clothes were hand-me downs from Lilith

Tannis

Her Phasesight powers were originally Steele's. However since Steele never chosen a successor, her powers were given to Tannis.

Used her illusion ability to hide both her tattoos and her ears.

Acts as Angels crazy aunt, to which everyone is surprised that those two got along very well.

Amara

Is BBF (Best Buff Friends) with Krieg, Brick, and Mr. Torgue. The four did an arm wrestling contest that ended in a draw between Amara and Krieg.

Loves gummy candy, especially ones with fruit juice in the center. Moze would usually have a tin with her whenever she's with Amara.

(Speaking of which, don't leave a fruit drop tin alone with her, she'll devour them all in one sitting)

Ok I really doubt that Amara can even summon wings, but let me pretend because Amara with multiple wings sounds cool!

Ava

Her parents died not because she accidentally leached them, but because the monks of Athenas wanted to take her with a bullshit excuse that there's a great evil coming.

They didn't believe the monks, which caused them to take her by force.

It ended with the monks killing her parents, and Ava leaching the monks.

Has a pretty big appetite, likely due to her siren powers.

(But more like she'll sneak into the kitchen at 2am to steal food kind of appetite than draining people's souls)

Total cringe fail. But to be fair, she's 14, and 14 year olds are allowed to be a little cringey, as long as it's harmless.

Her siren wings are based on the wings Troy uses in his boss fight.

[liquorisce]

Is there any manga you can recommend to someone who’s otp is eremika and that likes your fics?

OMG I LOVE THIS QUESTION!!!! tysm for asking!!!

So since you like eremika and my fics (i really am honoured thank u) I am gonna rec some stuff with themes that I am drawn to: (cws in red)

Scum’s wish: it's a story about 2 high schoolers trying to sate their intense feelings for other people, with each other. there's a lot of great elements about loneliness, hunger, desperation to be noticed, a certain willingness to throw away your self respect because of the intensity of your desire etc. i'm super drawn to these themes so you might see them pop in my fics! cw: nsfw, character ages not mentioned i think but they're in final year i think so 17-18?

Hirunaka no ryuusei: I used to write fic for this manga! that's how obsessed i was with this. even now i find myself wishing for an anime of this one. This is a love triangle shoujo manga. So this starts off with a high schooler- suzume- who moves to tokyo and develops feelings for her teacher. At the same time, she develops tentative friendships, one with a boy who falls hopelessly in love with her. I recommend this manga EVEN if you don't like the teacher x student trope bc you might enjoy where it ends up. the characters are really well done, the emotions hit hard. and it can also be cute and funny at times!

Fruits basket: Another one that I have written a couple of fics for! Furuba was pretty popular esp with the reboot anime that came out a few years ago so maybe you know this, but man does it go heavy on the angst. It's about an orphan who stumbles into a really old wealthy family that suffers from a curse. There's such good stuff here: forbidden relationships, repressed desires, self-loathing, innocence and pain. Make sure to grab the tissues if you pick it up! I liked both the anime (2019?) and the manga. The characters are very very well done!! Tons of deep characters with great backstory.

akatsuki no yona: I must admit I am not caught up with like the last 20 chaps or so but I was super obsessed with it. It's got a wonderful FMC- princess yona- who goes through a really nice growth arc. the chemistry between her bodyguard and her is TO DIE FOR! and tbh i consider this a huge inspiration for whenever I want to write something that conveys devotion. Nobody does it like Hak. And yeah lots of gorgeous men. Pretty art style. Highly recommend!

Ok now I'm going to recommend some stuff that may not be to everyone's taste, but I feel like there's a running theme with what I'm drawn to, so here it is. There are several works of CLAMP that I really adore:

They are super well known for CardCaptor Sakura, and that was one of my faves growing up. CCS is quite tame but has a really strong ship with some of my fav elements: soulmates, fate, i-will-do-anything-for-you vibes. Syaoran x Sakura and also Touya x Yukito was a huge obsession of mine back in the day! (There's some fics on my ao3/FFN if you are curious what I used to write a million years ago lol).

Now tsubasa reservoir chronicle is a very twisted and at times confusing multiverse manga with the same characters as CCS and some of CLAMP's other works, and i know this is a controversial take but i loved it. I tend to read works for very specific reasons, like the angst or the doomed relationship vibes? like repression, unrequited love, a sort of unhinded tendency to sacrifice others and the self in service of your lover is very much a vibe i am drawn to even at the cost of plot loopholes. so you'll find a lot of that here. the plot summary: syaoran travels across different worlds and dimensions to find princess sakura's memories, without which she is an empty shell (she has no memory of him). there is a really stellar backstory to this that is honestly (for me) uncomparable to anything else i have ever read.

Another manga (from the 90s lol) by the same group is Tokyo Babylon which is a really short manga featuring a teenage onmyouji and his twin sister and his strange relationship with a much older "veterinarian". The series has a lot of occult themes and i think for it's time received good reviews for its portrayal of queer themes. It's a manga for the weird ones lol... It's very angsty, and mysterious, and has a tragic ending. cw: Age gap

Other manga/anime that I like that are somewhat aot-esque (to me) in their exploration of character and social commentary are: fullmetal alchemist brotherhood, heavenly delusion and psycho pass!!

enjoy!! do let me know if you end up reading / watching any of these <3

[pickinglilahs]

Blackeclipse for the soul

The real reason there had to be two moons over break AO3 link if you prefer to read there Part 22; Part 23; Part 24; Part 25; Part 26

For breakfast, they asked the elves for another picnic and took it, along with Remus' new cushions, to the Shack. By 9 o'clock, the 3 of them were snuggled up and munching on an assortment of fruit.

They had to stay inside the Shack this Full, even with most of the student body absent. There was too much of a risk that someone would be wandering the grounds. So, they wrestled and played downstairs.

By the time the Full set, they were covered in dust and dirt. They brushed off and sent cleaning charms at each other before sitting down for a late lunch.

The cushions were stored in a chest to keep them clean, and the empty basket was shrunk to fit in James' pocket. They made their way back to the castle, where Poppy was waiting for them in the Entrance Hall.

She gave Remus a once-over, before nodding and sending them on their way. So, they returned to Gryffindor Tower, took turns showering, and lounged on the bed to wait for the feast to start.

~~~

Remus was taking his time packing up, waiting for everyone to leave so that Regulus could take the cloak off. Unfortunately, he wasn't the only one waiting around.

Snape was lingering off to one side of the room. Remus, not wanting to deal with him today, made to leave; they could find some other empty classroom.

Naturally, as Remus neared the door, Snape cut him off. The room was empty now; the door swinging closed on its own.

Remus could feel Regulus' hand tighten around his wrist, but he just shook his head. "I don't want to deal with this today, Snape."

Sneering, the greasy git cut right to the chase, "I know what you are."

"What I am?" Remus laughed, not even hesitating. "And what am I, exactly?" The best way to deal with Snape was avoidance, he was almost certain the boy was trying to make him give something away.

"You're a werewolf." Snape managed to look both disgusted and gleeful. "Don't even try to deny it, I've been watching you."

Regulus' invisible hand disappeared from his wrist as Remus smiled pityingly at the other boy. "You've been 'watching me'? And you think I'm a werewolf?" Remus brought his voice down at the end, making his disbelief—and slight concern for the boy's sanity—clear.

"I know you are! You used to disappear every Full Moon, but now you just get tired which is a side effect of the Soulbond. You weren't at the castle during break, but you also weren't on the train. Those days also happened to be Full Moons. Not to mention your scars are indicative of a werewolf's tendency for self-mutation when locked up for transformations. The only thing I can't figure out is why you aren't mutilating yourself anymore. Even with the Soulbond, you would still need to spend time in the Hospital Wing and acquire new scars."

Remus blinked at him. Sticking with his avoidance tactic, he kept his voice soft and pitying, "You really are obsessed with me, aren't you? I can't imagine why. I always thought you were after James because of his pursuit of Lily." Remus paused, exaggerated his revelation, then, "Though, I suppose if it was James you were after all along, it would be natural to come after me because of our bond."

Snape was sputtering now, face turning red.

"Have you confronted Regulus as well? Is he a vampire? Or maybe a Siren? He is beautiful enough."

"This is not about Potter," Snape snarled. "This is about you being a disgusting monster."

He couldn't hide the flinch at that. He was a monster, and even if he could walk away from this without confessing, Snape could still tell people.

How many people would believe him?

Even with James and Regulus helping with the symptoms, he was still absent while the moon was up. Deciding this conversation needed to end, Remus sighed.

"What is it you want Snape? Are you going to run to Dumbledore? Tell the whole school I'm 'a big bad monster'?" He made sure to keep his tone mocking and discrediting.

Snape paused; Remus was getting to him. There was uncertainty in his posture now, even if his face was still set.

Remus took it and ran. "Look, I'm flattered by the attention, really, but why do you think they'd let a werewolf into a school full of children? I'm sure the board of governors and the Wizengamot would have something to say about that."

The spark of righteousness in Snape's eyes faltered.

"I suppose I can't stop you from telling the whole school, but I doubt anyone would believe you. Seeing me during the next Full Moon is all it would take for people to know you're lying."

A plan was already forming in Remus' mind; so, when Snape started to sputter again, he gave the git one last pitying look and stepped around him, knocking into Regulus.

He must have positioned himself in between them just in case. Remus smiled and rolled his eyes to himself as he went to the door, feeling Regulus' hand close around his wrist once more.

Down the hall, Remus glanced around and pulled Regulus into a broom closet.

It was occupied.

By James.

He was tucking the map away as Regulus shed the cloak. Remus threw locking and silencing spells at the door, sighing as James pulled him into his arms.

"What happened?"

Regulus' answering growl came as he too wrapped himself around Remus from behind, "Snape knows."

James stiffened and Remus was quick to add, "I don't think he'll tell, but we are going to need some polyjuice."

He could feel both boys' confusion and quickly went on, shifting around so he could see Regulus as well, "In that book you gave me for Christmas, it says they did a study with polyjuice. The person who changes into the werewolf isn't affected by the moon at all. I assume that, should anyone really look at that study, it will become illegal for anyone to turn into werewolves trying to hide their status. Not that there are a whole lot of people who would be willing to do that to help people like me but..."

James had already caught on. "Sirius."

Regulus seemed about to ask, but understanding lit his face as well. He shifted gears, "We don't have time to brew it."

"We don't need to; Slughorn has some in his office." James' pranking brain was whirling; eyes unfocused and hands twitching against their backs like they were working with something only he could see.

Once he started muttering to himself, Remus laid his head on Regulus' shoulder. "This might take him a minute."

He could feel Regulus' chest moving with a silent chuckle. He brought a hand up to brush Remus' hair behind his ear, dropping a kiss to the top of his head before resting his chin there, "How are you feeling, Moonbeam?"

Remus hummed, considering. "Exhausted, but more from the conversation than the Full, I think."

Remus felt Regulus' hum more than he heard it. As dysphoric as his height made him, Remus loved when Regulus held him like this.

Still, he turned his head into Regulus' shoulder, grousing, "It's not fair that you get to be so tall."

Regulus huffed, "Well it it's not fair that you hardly ever bleed; so, I think we're even."

An annoyed, disgruntled sort of sound came from Remus as he nuzzled further into Regulus' shoulder.

It was then that James snapped back into himself. He tightened his hold on both boys and grinned. "Lunch?"

Remus and Regulus rolled their eyes, allowing James to herd them out of the closet and towards the Great Hall.

~~~

Operation Discredit Snivillus

Regulus stays during the week randomly

Steal Aquire polyjuice from Slughorn

Warn Dumbledore of Snape and ODS

Tell Kinzie (and Siri)

Diversion Prank (Peter and Benji)

Check Thursday class schedule

Alibi for me and Reg (polyjuice girls?)

Monitor the rumor mill

Confer with Poppy

~~~

"Check Thursday class schedule?"

"Polyjuice girls?"

Remus only intervened on stealing the polyjuice, otherwise, he had left James to his list. Now that he had pushed it over for Remus and Regulus to inspect, they knew he was ready to explain.

By way of answering Regulus' question, he only said, "Next one's on a Wednesday."

Remus and Regulus nodded in understanding before Remus asked again, "You really want to bring the girls into this?"

James smiled deviously, "No. We bring the girls in for the Diversion Prank."

Regulus looked around Remus to James, "And what is this Diversion Prank?"

Impossibly, his smile got more devious. "Up to Peter."

Remus groaned and dropped his head on the table.

Regulus winced at the loud 'thunk' and cast a weary look at James. "I'm missing something."

Sirius, who had been engrossed in his conversation with Kingsley, turned to his brother, "Peter comes up with the...strangest pranks."

Regulus arched a brow at his brother, the marauders had done quite a few strange pranks over the years.

Sirius rolled his eyes, "Like, remember when the quidditch pitch was wrapped with ribbons and bows? Or when there were all those bouncy balls on the stairs?"

James jumped in, "Or when all of the desks in the potions hall were stuck upside down and the chairs were stuck to the ceiling?"

Remus picked his head up and turned to Regulus, "It's not that his ideas are the strangest; it's that they're always the most involved."

"Ah."

Peter sat down beside Sirius with Benji, "Whose ideas are the most involved?"

Remus gave him a look and Peter smiled down bashfully and started to load his plate.

@starchasersunseeker @poetrypirate @niad4827 @bradley-95147-blog @shyshadows430

[molloytheboy]

tagged by @dead-ghost-walking to answer these fun fic writing questions!

How many works do you have on AO3? 42

What’s your total AO3 word count? 138,556

What fandoms do you write for? currently just the Vampire Chronicles but when I first got back into fic writing in 2020 it was Dragon Age

What are your top 5 fics by kudos? Does it feel like a dream, Mr. Molloy? | Next to Never | The Fight | Come As You Are | If This Be Nothing

5. Do you respond to comments? Usually yes! I love receiving them so I try to encourage it as much as I can by interacting <3

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? Probably gotta be the fic where I killed Louis (which I do still plan on finishing btw)

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? Holy Ground :)) this one is sickeningly sweet tbh i was in serious need of some fluff when I wrote it

8. Do you get hate on fics? only very rarely. basically never happens now that I only allow comments from people with accounts

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind? yes. all kinds. all of the kinds. VC Kink Week 2023

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written? not currently but crossover crackfic was how i started my fic writing career back in high school. craziest was a roleplay with my bestie that involved characters from Naruto, Samurai Champloo, DNAngel, Fruits Basket, Gravitation, and Fullmetal Alchemist

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen? not to my knowledge. nice thing about writing for such a small fandom someone would probably notice and notify me pretty quick

12. Have you ever had a fic translated? no

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before? yes

14. What’s your all time favorite ship? idk if i can pick one definitively but its a VC ship for sure. its kind of all of them tbh all the main canon ones. i cycle thru obsessing over each of them depending on the fic im working on. if i was forced to choose at gunpoint i would go with Nickistat

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will? hate the phrasing of this how dare u make me face my demons. I will finish all of my wips i will break the cycle and then i will be free and never again be plagued by thoughts about the Characters in Situations. i know this sounds like a cop out answer but i genuinely with all my heart believe that i will eventually get to all 17 of my wips this is simply the extent of my hubris

16. What are your writing strengths? dialogue i think. and smut idk can smut be a strength. tbh i haven't received a lot of constructive feedback on my writing outside of fan spaces so i dont feel qualified to answer this

17. What are your writing weaknesses? over-explaining/over-describing characters actions and motives and emotions in a scene. i feel like this is smth that doesnt come across in my final drafts as much anymore bc ive been actively working on it but this is the thing i consistently struggle with during the process. also i tend to be kind of lazy with research which isnt the best quality to have when you write mostly in historical settings. but with fanfic i feel justifed in only spending one hour instead of three reading up on life in 18th century Paris since i do have a life to get back to at some point. if i was writing for publication i would try harder

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic? I do it, poorly. almost exclusively French in this fandom, and a little Italian. I do my best to check multiple translation sources (from real speakers if possible) and find example sentences to base my grammar on. but again, this is a hobby so I don't hold myself to the same standard I would if I was doing it professionally

19. First fandom you wrote for? pretty sure my first fanfic was that crossover i mentioned earlier so. all of those

20. Favorite fic you’ve written? oh boy. hold on gimme a sec. ok i think its Against All Odds rn. i was at the top of my game when it comes to Loustat banter (had recently reread the first 3 books) and its very tight and compact and cinematic im still really pleased with it 2 years (??!?!?!?) later

tagging @nightcolorz @butchybats and anyone else who wants to! u can say I tagged u <3

[stellamancer]

twenty questions for fic writers—

thanks to @kedsandtubesocks for the tag hehe and I'm sorry to everyone who has to suffer through my yapping. open tagging on this! take it if you want it!!!

1) how many works do you have on AO3?

Ninety. I actually don't think I've posted a lot of my jjk things on there, nor does it have basically anything that I had on Lunaescence...

2) what's your total AO3 word count?

262,115

3) what fandoms do you write for?

mostly jjk these days. in the past few years I've also written bnha and ffxiv.

4) top five fics by kudos

face in my hands. they're all from my mystic messenger era.... I'm too embarrassed to mention them LMAO. i'd like to think my writing has improved since then.

5) do you respond to comments?

yes!! i do my very best to respond to comments i get on AO3, and then also to comment-esque tags I get on tumblr. personally, as a reader, I get really excited when a writer responds to me so I try to do the same for my readers... If that makes sense? I think it's fun!!

6) what is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

my gut reaction is to say don't, if you value your life— but like that fic as a whole is an angst fest and so I feel like while the ending was really angsty, it was in line with everything as a whole. but otherwise idk...

7) what's the fic that you wrote with the happiest ending?

mmmm. I think that the nature of my one-shots means they tend to end on a happier note but it's all pretty equal, both across the fics and the fics generally don't have enough emotional fluctuation for me to think 'oh this was a really happy ending.'

8) do you get hate on fics?

i'm lucky enough to never have received hate fo my work directly. i'm sure someone some where has shit on my stuff in private lmao....

9) do you write smut?

not really. I can, I just don't really.

10) craziest crossover?

there is such thing as magic, which was a base kingdom hearts × full metal alchemist crossover. there were other series in it which included fruits basket. LMAOO.

11) have you ever had a fic stolen?

not to my knowledge LMAO, at least not outright. plagiarized on the other hand...

12) have you ever had a fic translated?

I think someone asked to translate one of my mystic messenger fics once.

13) have you ever co-written a fic before?

yes! me and kelsey ( @cannibalisticskittles )cowrote a modern royalty saeran x reader fic years ago. and sel ( @seiwas ) I are working on a bunch of fics together, albeit very, very slowly.

14) all time favorite ship?

uh. I don't really have one.

15) what's a wip you want to finish but you doubt you ever will?

LMAO. every day I seem less and less likely to finish & here i am alive.

16) what are your writing strengths?

dialogue. I've been told I write tension well too.

17) what are your writing weaknesses?

a lack of focus (like sitting down and actually writing) as well as descriptive writing.

18) thoughts on dialogue in another language?

I think that... it can be immersion breaking, especially if the reader doesn't read or understand said language, to the point of being distracting. Like you're switching the attention of your reader from the story to trying to figure out what the character just said. I mean, you can clue your audience in via narration, so at least they understand...

I think it's best for the audience to keep the fic in one language (not including loan words). mao's ( @yinyuedijun ) recent aventurine fic, translation, did a really good job, I think of conveying dialogue in another language. I think she used italics there... But yeah, not sure if I'm a fan of just inserting dialogue in another language into a fic...

19) first fandom you wrote in?

yu yu hakusho

20) favorite fic you've written?

don't, if you value your life

[martianbugsbunny]

Frankenberry and the Fruit Brute (A Frankenwolf Fic)

I'm sure somebody in the Frankenwolf fandom has come up with this idea before, but I got a box of Frankenberry for Halloween (actually, I got it about a month ago, but it's a large box and I don't eat cereal every morning so I still have some lol) and I couldn't resist! Blame General Mills for making a Frankenstein cereal and a werewolf cereal. This is one of my few, if not my first, foray into writing a holiday fic, I honestly forget at this point, so it was such a fun little thing to do! If you're saying to yourself, Martian, what are you doing, it's not Halloween yet! rest assured there is method to this particular madness: October 27th is Frankenstein Friday! So you get this early as a treat! Read on and enjoy!

Victor set his bag down next to the door, which he pushed closed behind him with his foot, and began unwrapping himself from all the layers of cold-weather clothes he was wearing. It was only October, but on the coast of Maine it got chilly fast. His overcoat, brought over from the Land Without Color by the curse, he hung carefully on a hook in the hall; it was durable and warm, not to mention stylish, and he didn’t want to rip it. The red knit gloves and scarf went on a table next to Ruby’s grey ones. His sweater vest (also stylish, but far too warm for wearing in the house with the heat on) he pulled over his head and dropped in the laundry room on his way to the kitchen.

The moment he saw Ruby leaning against the counter with a wolf-that-ate-the-canary grin, he knew he was in trouble. “Alright, what is it this time?” Surely not another dog; Ruby had already twisted his arm into bringing home two shaggy hounds from the shelter, who were probably curled up in the living room in front of the fireplace. They were the laziest animals Victor had ever met.

“Guess what I found at the store,” Ruby said. She didn’t wait for Victor to actually make his guess, whipping out a box of cereal from the cabinet behind her. “Ta-da!”

Victor stared at the cartoon mascot on the box for a minute. “Is that—Ruby, that’s ridiculous.” The cereal was labelled Franken Berry, and the mascot who shared the name was bright pink from head to foot, with a chain draped around his neck and slightly robotic features forming a wide, somewhat vacant-looking grin.

Ruby laughed. “It’s hilarious, Vic,” she said. “And it tastes good.”

Victor raised an eyebrow at the monster mascot. “Instead of Frankenstein standing for life, my family name stands for pink Halloween cereal,” he grumbled. “Well, if I can’t beat em, I might as well join em.” Cereal for dinner—why not? He had to know if it was as good as Ruby said.

He would probably never admit out loud that it was.

……

The next afternoon Victor stopped at the store on his way home from the hospital to pick up batteries and dog biscuits; the TV remote was only half-working, and the dogs became even lazier if they didn’t have their little bone-shaped snacks to motivate them.

As he passed the cereal aisle, the gaudy display of General Mills Halloween-themed ones caught his eye. He glared at the Frankenstein for a minute, then looked to see what other flavors they had. Count Chocula…maybe later, he did have a fondness for chocolate cereals.

Wait a minute.

Fruit Brute. The instant Victor saw the werewolf on the box wearing pink, green, and orange striped overalls, he knew he had to get it. He added it to his basket of groceries, already cackling inwardly at what he imagined Ruby’s reaction would be.

He wasn’t disappointed. When he presented the box, grinning, Ruby looked stunned for a minute, then burst out protesting and laughing at the same time. “My fashion sense is better than that!” she howled. “Those pants are horrible! At least your guy stuck to one color!”

Victor laughed triumphantly. Having gotten his revenge, he was just about ready to stick both boxes in the pantry and let the whole thing rest.

Then he saw the look coming across Ruby’s face and knew he was in trouble. “Hey, Vic, you know how Snow and Charming win the couples’ costume contest in the town square every year?” she said. “Maybe it’s time they get dethroned.”

Victor only needed a moment to consider it; he knew Ruby wouldn’t relent, and if he was being honest he liked the idea of taking the Charmings down. “You’re on, sweetheart,” he said.

…….

On Halloween, the two of them left the house all dolled up in their mascot costumes just as it was starting to get dark. The sky was a beautiful shade of dusky purple, and the streetlamps were coming on—the ones on Main Street had been decorated with covers that looked like jack-o’-lanterns, and the fairy lights strung from one to the other were in little ghost shapes.

“It’s a beautiful night for defeating the champions,” Ruby said, squeezing Victor’s arm with excitement. He loved this competitive side of her.

Sure, they both looked a little ridiculous; Ruby in a brown unitard absolutely covered with fake fur, plus a pair of pants she’d made herself to match the striped ones the wolf on the box wore, and Victor in magenta version of his usual lab coat and plastic chains draped around his neck spray-painted pink. But the Charmings weren’t laughing for long—not when Victor and Ruby were finally pronounced the winners of the couples’ costume contest and took a triumphant victory lap around the town square, then collected their prize: coupons to a new cafe that had opened a couple of weeks ago.

And when they went to the cafe the very next day, and Victor was sitting across from Ruby, watching her sip from a mug of spiced hot chocolate in a soft, cozy red sweater, he had to admit those stupid cereal mascots had done him a favor.

[starlit-hopes-and-dreams]

Word find tag (soon, later, wait, when, and now)

I was tagged by @thegreatobsesso. Thank you! <3

Tagging: @i-can-even-burn-salad, @winterandwords, @nanashi23 Your words: quick, thrill, threat, laugh, heal

I've been challenged to find positive quotes after my last very angsty word find. They were slightly difficult to find, but turns out I *do* have a few :D

These will be from Shattered Soul. It got a bit long (bc they're cute scenes damnit 🥺💜), so I'm slapping on a readmore.

wip intro

Soon

[Darian] He fixed up a plate and dug in; he hadn't realized how hungry he was. To his relief, Alaia began eating again as well, although she stopped sooner than he would've liked.

She gave him a strange look right as he took a large bite from a meatpie. "I'm really not a prisoner here, am I? Kiala offered me training. You're sitting here eating with me, not even asking any questions. Nobody locks the door. If I could walk more than two steps at a time, could I leave?"

The meatpie stuck in his throat at that, and he reached for some water to wash it down. "Do you want to leave?" he asked carefully.

Please, don't want to leave.

"Leave the room," she clarified, and he began to breathe again, nonchalantly taking another sip of water to cover his relief.

Later

[Alaia] She picked up the clear glass, which showcased a rainbow of colored liquid within. It smelled sweet, slightly fruity, but had the distinctive aroma of alcohol. Tentatively, she took a tiny sip, mindful of the coffee she had tried this morning. But she was relieved to find this tasted wonderful, like a medley of different fruits bursting upon her tongue. A noise of appreciation escaped as she looked at the drink with more interest.

Nuzzling her temple, Darian asked, "Better than the coffee?"

A pleasant warmth spread in her chest as she took a larger drink. "Oh yes, there's no comparison."

Darian chuckled.

Jesam pressed close to her other side, reaching over to grab some bread and cheese. Aleix teased him, jerking the basket away, and she reached out to intervene as they started fighting for it. Cambria gave her a conspiratorial grin, and they both reached for the basket, claiming the last couple pieces of bread, cramming them into their mouths as all the males complained.

A couple of drinks later, Alaia felt ready to float free from her body. Whatever this alcohol was, it wasn't human alcohol. It made her feel light and airy. But also warm and fuzzy, so maybe it was normal alcohol. She didn't know anymore, and didn't care.

Wait & When

Before he could mention adding milk or sugar, she lifted her cup and took a cautious sip. Darian winced, anticipating her reaction. Sure enough, her eyes watered as her face screwed up in disgust at the bitterness.

"Oh gods," she gasped. "You people drink this willingly? What is wrong with you?"

Darian burst out laughing, even while he mindspoke their server.

Alaia gave him a dirty look, pushing the cup away. "It's not funny—"

"I'm so sorry," Tay said, interrupting Alaia before she could give Darian the tongue-lashing he likely deserved. "Here, let me help you. Most of us prefer at least a little cream and sugar to soften the bitterness. Or I could bring you tea, if you'd rather not try again." They wrung their hands while they waited for Alaia's response.

"Oh no, it's not your fault," Alaia assured them. She shot another glare at Darian and reached for the small container of cream the server had brought. "How much should I add?

Darian was convinced there was more cream and sugar than coffee in Alaia's cup when she finished. By that time, their food had been delivered. Alaia looked at her plate of fluffy sweet bread topped with fresh fruit with something that actually resembled interest. She picked up her fork, then pointed it at Darian.

"Tell me, is there anything I need to add to this to make it not taste like burned charcoal steeped in hot water?"

He raised his eyebrows. "Are you going to stab me with that fork?"

"Only if you lie to me." She scowled, but there was a thread of amusement dancing between them, and Darian smiled.

Now

She rolled her eyes, turning to point her fork at Kiral. "Speak."

Kiral burst out laughing. "Bossy much, kaireda mia?"

"I'm not above stabbing you with this fork and making you squirm before I heal you," Alaia threatened, waving said fork around. "And what in the Mother's name did you just call me? At least your brother translates his sappy terms of endearment."

"I think you like my sappy terms of endearment, mi'alla," Darian said, squeezing her hip.

"Kaireda mia means dear sister," Kiral managed to choke out between bouts of laughter. "Now we've moved on to physical threats?"

Alaia lowered her fork, suddenly remembering the king and queen were at the table. She eyed them a little nervously, considering she'd just threatened to stab the crown prince.

Mariana caught her look, and smiled. "We don't hold titles in this room, kaireda. Besides, I'm sure Darian is thrilled to learn his mate is just as bloodthirsty as he is."

Elian chuckled. "Yes, Darian is pretty quick to draw his dagger. Kiral probably appreciates only being threatened with a fork."

"I do!" Kiral said, gasping for breath. "I appreciate it about as much as the offer to heal me after. Means I don't have to trail blood everywhere while I drag myself to the Hall of Healing."

[dayseternal-blog]

You mentioned in another post about reading shoujo manga... Can you list some that you consider as your faves or would highly recommend?

:D It's been awhile, but my faves were

Hibi Chouchou - Everyone's so cute and lovable. This is like, one of my all-time faves.

Skip Beat - This is ongoing and who knows if it'll ever end. But it's so fun. I guess I'll be reading this still when I'm 50 years old.

Hirunaka no Ryuusei - Yes, yes, I loved this one very much. I loved the art style.

Last Game - THIS WAS GOOD. yes.

Honey - I loved this one so much, I was looking up the Japanese scans just to write and add my own translations.... I didn't realize this was finished.

Nekota no Koto ga Ki ni Natte Shikatanai - I really enjoyed this one. Very funny and reminded me of when I read Kodomo no Omocha (Kodocha) when I was kid. That was also a good shoujo manga.

Soredemo Sekai wa Utsukushii - I liked this one. ...apparently it's completed??? I never realized. I have to catch up.

Akatsuki no Yona - ....this is still going, too. I stopped following this one I guess when I caught up to all the updates at the time... I liked it to whatever point I read up to.

Akagami no Shirayukihime - tbh when I first started reading this one and Akatsuki no Yona, I would get the titles confused. I watched the anime with my husband, and he approved this one.

Ao Haru Ride - I don't normally get second-lead syndrome and I usually cheer for whoever the main chara loves, but I unfortunately felt for the second lead really hard in this one :(

Love So Life - the main chara is so, so pure in this one. The whole thing is just so *tugging at your heartstrings*

Taiyou no Ie - I liked this one a lot too

Suki-tte Ii na yo (Say I Love You) - Yeah, this was good.

Vampire Knight - ok, yeah, haha, this was like a guilty pleasure. good stuff. maybe not a fave fave, but fun.

Orange - tbh this was small kine depressing, but it was good and it has a happy ending

Ookami Heika no Hanayome - omg this is still ongoing, too.

Fruits Basket - of course. who doesn't love this one?

Yamato Nadeshiko Shichihenge (Perfect Girl Evolution) - I think I bought all the manga books for this when I was in high school or something

Ouran High School Host Club - by far one of the funniest mangas I've ever read