#also like having butterflies as a depiction of death too

[alaska-ren-works]

Hollow 👏 Kindred 👏 Hollow 👏 Kindred 👏

[mufos-photo-album]

(Transcript at bottom of post.)

Dark plants are a relatively new addition to the Kingdom of Sky, appearing some decades after the disaster at Eden. Like other plants, dark plants need light to grow. However, their leaves are too dark and thick to perform photosynthesis, and too much light delivered directly can cause the plants to burn and shrivel. Instead, dark plants absorb the light captured by dark water — water which has been contaminated by dark sediment, the byproduct of darkstone production.

[ID: A diagram showing the flow of light from creature to dark plant. When creatures of light come into contact with dark sediment, the sediment drains their light. The sediment, now charged with light, is dispersed through the water and soil, which is then absorbed by dark plants.]

In most cases, dark plants pose no direct harm to beings of light. In areas like the Hidden Forest, where dark rain commonly pours, dark plants take on indirect predatory behaviors. Especially in wet environments, dark plants will produce a sticky dew from their leaves that tends to attract butterflies. This dew contains trace amount of dark sediment which dulls one's senses when consumed. This leads to butterflies resting in the rain for longer than they usually would, leading to death in some cases. Dark plants have also been seen ensnaring mantas. This happens when mantas, exhausted by the dark rain or other factors, fly into the brambles of a dark plant, holding them in place as the dark rain saps their light.

[ID: A drawing of a manta caught in the brambles of a dark plant. It is raining.]

Fully getting rid of a dark plant can be difficult. They can be burned down using fire or a candle spell, but even if all the stems and leaves are burned, the plant will begin to regrow some time later. To truly destroy a dark plant, it needs to be uprooted, and the roots burned with the rest of the plant. Dark plants can also spread fairly easily, as they can reproduce asexually.

[ID: A diagram showing the 3 ways dark plants can spread -- via their roots, via cuttings, and via seed nodules. Mufotsuki is standing in front of the diagram, holding a seed nodule. She states: "The seeds are the easiest part of a dark plant to break off. Never leave them unattended for too long! Sometimes I collect them for my sister. She does experiments on them."]

Despite their mutual association with darkness, not many, if any, dark plants grow in Eden itself. Although Eden is abundant in dark sediment, the weather conditions are too violent and destoys most varieties before they can properly root.

Speaking of dark plant varieties...

Tree: Common variety which tends to grow tall and wide. Known for trapping mantas.

Bush: Another common variety of dark plant which tends to grow wide, but not very tall.

Moss: Uncommon variety which sprawls over flat surfaces. Difficult to truly get rid of since moss can grow into hard-to-reach places. Can cause man-made mechanisms to seize up.

Urchin: Uncommon variety that tends to show up in saltwater environments. They have many spines tipped with dark sediment to absorb ambient light in the water, but also to absorb the light produced by other plants.

Lilypad: Uncommon to rare variety that tends to show up in polluted freshwater environments. Problematic for other plants since they can blot out sunlight.

Floater: Rare variety of plant that comes from Eden. They take advantage of the terrible weather to spread their seeds across the realm, but mature specimens are rarely found in Eden.

[ID: Various drawings depicting each of the dark plant varieties, one for each.]

[pennyellee]

𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐗 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐧𝐞

LACRIMOSA | MYG MAFIA YANDERE AU

pairings: mafia leader!yoongi x f!reader

genre: mafia!au, yandere au, historical au

summary: Their interlocking gaze served as a butterfly effect on his heart, stirring it to the core. She, in turn, only dreams to find a way to escape. But perchance, over time she might forcefully learn to love the man who has taken so much from her.

Thus unfolds a twisted tale of love and loss, of hope and despair, of life and death. The music reverberated through the dimly-lit streets. Tears of sorrow, weeping symphony - reflects the hurt, the scars that linger deep within and the wounds that never healed. Lacrimosa.

chapter warnings (preview only): minors dni 18+ | mafia au, dark!yoongi, mafia!yoongi, yandere, implied age gap, hoseok-sshi being tired of yoongi, …

beta read by @chaoticpuff17

word count: 646

release date: 7/12/24

disclaimer: this story is purely fictional, it does not depict real-life events or involve any actual members of BTS. This story will contain depictions of violence, blood shed, death, mentions of abuse, smoking, alcohol drinking, illegal activities, old social norms and traditions, which we do not condone.

author’s note: WELL AT LAST INNIT? Y'all I swear I’m as impatient to put this out but also so nervous. This is the longest chapter of Lacrimosa to this date and there is a reason. A lot is going to happen here and in part two. That’s why I decided to split this into two parts, and perhaps if this would be only one part I would have to write “the end” which I’m still not contemptuous with soooo yeah. But this has been such a long ride and looking at the almost 300 pages long document I’m sitting here like damn. The first draft of Lacrimosa can be traced back to 2021 and I can’t believe we are almost at the end of it all.

ANYWAY - for those who asked a lot about Y/N’s and Yoongi’s age gap, kudos for your patience. Also, I have another fic that is setted in the world of champagne confetti [now i’ll know if you’re actually reading these notes hihi] of which preview will come, probably this week too, or maybe the next one, again, very excited to push it out finally AND, yes to all of you if you’re still reading this note - CHAMPAGNE CONFETTI [now you just looked up to see what i’m talking about right] will come around as soon as i’m finished with UNI this year. If yall be good I can pull out a preview out of my sleeve for Christmas. SO, see you all on 7/12/24, the usual time :))))

previous NEXT

….

“You don’t just do that without having something bigger planned.”

Seokjin’s eyes flickered to observe Yoongi’s reaction to their brother’s words. “He is right, Yoongi. She has always been emotional, and driven by her heart. But this—" He shook his head. “It’s different.”

Jimin shifted in his seat, looking between the men, the concern in his eyes growing.

Hoseok stood straighter, his expression softening as he spoke with conviction. “She had a choice. She could have walked away or stayed neutral, but instead, she chose to act. And what she did, Yoongi, was not just for herself. It was for all of us. For you. Do not dare to doubt her loyalty, when she worked hard to finally be contemptuous here!”

Jungkook, his voice quieter than usual, spoke up listening to Hoseok’s words. “She did what she had to do. And whatever her reasons are, I trust her.” His gaze met Yoongi’s. “You should, too.”

Yoongi’s expression hardened, trying to keep his emotions in check. His mind raced, the weight of everything that had happened in the past hours pressing down on him.

Taehyung’s voice broke through the silence once again, more serious than usual.

“She has changed—” Yoongi exhaled sharply, his mind still reeling. “I just need to understand why. Why now? Why this?” His voice dropped to a near whisper, the vulnerability slipping through despite his best efforts to hide it. His heart... his heart wanted to believe in her, wanted to believe she was doing this out of devotion, not manipulation.

“Of course, she has changed!” Hoseok’s frustration was bubbling at this point. "You were nine when she was born," he continued the quiet force in his voice, not backing down.

“Nine years, Yoongi. You have had that much more time to figure things out. To live your life, to become who you are now. She did not have that—” Yoongi’s jaw clenched, and for a moment, he didn’t know how to respond. The truth was there, raw and unfiltered, and it stung.

“She had three pathetic years to enjoy what life can be and then she went to be your wife.” He took a breath, trying to steady himself. Y/N had spent so much of her life suffocated by the things that had shaped her, by the violence and manipulation that had plagued her existence long before she ever crossed paths with him.

The silence that followed was thick, the air heavy with unspoken emotions.

His voice was quieter than it had been, softer, as he spoke the words he wasn’t sure he was ready to say. “I just… I need to—”

“Even if she is plotting some grand escape, we will stop her, Yoongi.” Yoongi’s head snapped up at the interruption, his eyes narrowing at Hoseok’s words. For a moment, Yoongi’s chest tightened, the idea of Y/N plotting against him threatening to undo everything he’d been trying to hold together.

He stepped forward, his hand resting gently on Yoongi’s shoulder, an attempt to ground him in the present. “You all are too busy doubting her, instead of trusting her.” Yoongi flinched slightly at the rawness in Hoseok’s tone. He had been too caught up in his own doubts to truly see the bigger picture.

“Maybe you are right,” Yoongi muttered, his voice low, almost to himself. He ran a hand through his hair, frustration bubbling back to the surface.

“She is not running, Yoongi. She is not playing you. What is happening now is what happens when you have been given enough time to think.” Hoseok’s gaze softened, his expression becoming more contemplative.

For the first time in a long time, Yoongi allowed himself to take a breath, to breathe out the doubt, and let himself hold onto the belief that maybe, just maybe she was done fighting him for good.

“I genuinely hope that you are right, Hoseok-sshi.”

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coming soon

©pennyellee. please do not repost

Don't be a silent reader, comment, re-blog, heart, asks are more than welcome ♥

PS: Taehyung and Xiaoli 🤭🤫❤️

keep in mind - I'm not expert on chinese, korean and japanese culture, but I tried to research everything realistic I wanted to add to the story. Nonetheless, take it as a fiction.

tag list: @beautifulcloudfestival - @honsoolgloss - @jingerbreadoutofstock - @moscow778 - @januara26 - @dinosolecito - @yoongislatinagff - @xyahrinx - @hi12345567 - @nochuel - @deltamoon666 - @bbkissme99 - @darkuni63 - @nansasa - @sazsazsaz - @strxwbloody - @royallyjjk - @jaiuneamesolitaiire - @shadowyjellyfishfest - @bbgniecyy - @elayne321 - @seojunandsoju - @bun-27 - @whipwhoops - @wobblewobble822 - @whofan88 - @haneyyyyyy - @lostgirlinthewoodss - @secfir - @btspurplesky - @elleflying07 - @pamzn - @megseungmin - @selenophileforlife - @idkjustlovingbts - @seonghwaexile - @catlove83

[asarigg]

Character Design: Part 5

FEATHERS

Another detail I’d like to mention about his tattoo before moving on is that the peony tattoo was originally meant to be accompanied by leaves, but they changed this for the final design. Leaves make sense, they’re natural, but feathers?

Feathers alone seem to have no relevance in Japanese culture, but there are two relevant birds that have black plumage: cormorants and crows.

Cormorants are valued birds for their fish-hunting skills and were often trained to help fishermen. Therefore, they are a symbol of devotion and unceasing commitment to their master.

Crows are probably the first thing that comes to mind when we think of black feathers, and just like in other countries they can be associated with evil, but also with supernatural powers, and are considered messengers of the gods. It is commonly associated with fire and the sun, it is said that it was the only bird that can fly to the sun, and its feathers are black because they were marked by its rays.

They are often represented together with a white heron, like yin and yang, day and night, good and bad.

Within mythology we find Yatagarasu, a sacred crow that had three legs. Heaven, Earth and humanity. Yatagarasu is sent by a god (I think Amaterasu, but I’ve also read about Takami-musubi) to help humans, a symbol of guidance, of connection between the spiritual and physical world.

They were once associated with rebirth and rejuvenation, as they cleansed the land after a battle. Rebirth after a tragedy. It was believed they carried the souls of the deceased, similar to butterflies, to the next plane of existence. In art they often represent death, the passing of time. Apparently they’re also sparrows’ natural enemies.

In short, each element of this poisoned tattoo only seems to be mockery after mockery on Ryuuhou’s part, a representation of what he knows will happen. The similarity of the tribal to birds, the meaning of peonies, the seed syllable inside the bird on his arm, and now the feathers as an addition to Koujaku’s virtues or as a premonition of death and tragedy. Death and destruction are carved all over his body. (He’s terrified of it, and avoids it, but Sly seeks it)

HAIR

Now let’s move on to hair. Hair is a symbol of spiritual power in many cultures around the world. As we’ve seen before in the sutra it is associated with Buddha, and by extension it is also associated with Koujaku, who’s a hairstylist and dedicates his life to cutting and controlling hair.

In ancient Japan, hair was a gift from god, it has been identified as a special focus of spiritual power and personality. The longer the better, it’s like it remembers thoughts and emotions, our identity. For this reason there are various ways in which social status is tied to hair too. It’s also used to curse people. There is a hair kami at the Arashiyama Kamigami shrine if I’m not mistaken, and you can make an offering by cutting a lock of your hair. In Sumo, when a fighter retired, they would ceremonially cut it.

Hair has been used and incorporated into Buddha embroidery as a way of forging a link between the worshipper and the Buddha depicted. Locks of hair can be seen at the doors of the Izumo shrine, which specializes in marriage. There are also stories of women who let their hair down when they go to sleep and the hair turns into snakes, poisonous desire, repressed during the day. There are other folkloric practices and beliefs about women’s hair, for example ship captains carrying part of their wives’ or daughters’ hair on board as a protective talisman.

In some communities, it is believed that a shaman’s powers, which allow her to negotiate between the worlds of the living and the dead, were located in her long, loose hair, a sacred connection with the gods, the darker and the longer the better.

For Koujaku, Aoba’s hair is sacred, extremely valuable. He had wanted to cut it for years, we see how excited he is when he touches and kisses it, and when he is finally able to fulfill his dream he carefully keeps one of his locks wrapped in a piece of paper inside a paulownia wood box. For him, his hair is an amulet, it is good luck, it is extremely symbolic of who Aoba is (and who wouldn’t remember him as the dude with blue hair, one of the key features of his design, as well as the very peculiar characteristics that the developers gave it) and what he means to Koujaku.

The lock of Aoba’s hair is a direct connection to him, no matter how far away he is or how long it takes them to see each other again, he will always have this amulet with him. He is a devotee of Aoba, Koujaku adores him and loves him intensely, and it is not unusual to think that this devotion takes on an even religious aspect, as if Aoba was divine, a god.

In Tibetan Buddhism they paint Buddha’s hair blue.

Koujaku's hair is tied up like a miko's, with a cylinder or strap of white paper and red knot. They also use a miko styled paper for Aoba's hairstyle in an illustration and the figure.

Paulownia wood is associated with nobility, fertility, good fortune and happiness. Paulownia is a tree that was often planted when a girl was born. Wealthy families would plant up to three trees, and when the girl grew up and was time to get married, the family would cut down the tree and make a chest and other items out of the wood to give to her on her wedding day. The kimono was meant to be stored in good quality wood to preserve it, and this wood naturally repels insects. It’s also used for instruments.

Another detail about Koujaku’s hairstyle is that his hairpin looks like a shamisen.

Trying to protect his mother from his father and legal wife only caused her more pain, so instead he tried to do something else. She’s so happy about the gift, and the wishes of her son to help her fill her with joy, but she knows that’s impossible. He’s only a kid, so she just smiles, without being able to reply. Honestly, given that this was a gift he made to his mother to brighten her day, I wonder if it could be related to her tastes, especially considering that the most common are simple or with floral decoration. We don’t know almost anything about her, her name, appearance, what she liked to do or to dress like, what she taught Koujaku to raise him, etc…

So seeing this I wouldn’t be surprised if his mother actually played this instrument and maybe taught her son. The point is that this illustration exists.

A Tumblr user recently mentioned it on her post.

GOOD LUCK

Another piece of his design are these bracelets he wears on both hands. These bracelets are prayer beads, called Nenju or Juzu. Originally used in Buddhism to help with meditation by counting prayers, 108 beads are used representing the 108 earthly desires that one seeks to overcome in order to reach enlightenment, used to purify body and mind and express devotion to Buddha. They are used as protection as well. There are versions with fewer beads, 18, 27, 36 or 54, although there’s no fixed amount as many times it depends on the length and size of the beads, sometimes they carry a magatama. Women’s version usually has smaller beads and have more decorative colors, there are versions for children too. Beni’s necklace to me is just a kids version Koujaku bought for him to be honest…

Formal prayer beads also vary their appearance depending on the sect and it would be preferred that the person you marry belongs to the same sect. The tassels can also vary their shape. When these beads are damaged or can no longer serve their purpose, they are ritually burned on an altar where they are thanked for their service along with other amulets and get destroyed. Many people use them in funerals since most are held by Buddhists.

The ones that Koujaku wears in the shape of a bracelet are short, with two hanging tassels, the ones he’s using are 頭付房, I’m not sure how this translates but seems something like tassel with head/head tassel. Made to be more comfortable to carry anywhere, taking up less space or in a casual fashion. I like thinking he has formal Buddhist prayer beads kept somewhere for when he wants to pray for the people he knows.

The knot on his neck and the one in the decoration of his hair is a kiku knot, chrysanthemum knot, with two tassels hanging too. It’s also the type Shiroba/Sly uses in the bad ending. We’ve already seen what the chrysanthemum means. This knot is theorized to be a variation of a Buddhist knot, the endless knot, as a representation of Buddha’s infinite wisdom. In Tibetan Buddhism it symbolises Samsara, a never ending cycle. There are a few other interpretations.

Knots with tassels like this (総角房) would also be used in samurai helmets as a good luck charm, and it’s the type he has on his sword, not the chrysanthemum one.

We don’t really see or hear about Koujaku performing any religious practices during the story, except attending the festivals that everyone else goes to out of custom rather than a religious devotion. But I wouldn’t find it strange if he did it in the privacy of his home to try to attract luck in his life and try to separate himself from the beast, to be a good person and pray for his mother. After all, cultural and religious references are everywhere, and he himself wonders about the existence of souls, implying a much more spiritual understanding of life on his part.

Red is the first thing that catches your eye when you look at his design, and it’s a very important color in shintoism and is used in shrines everywhere, in clothes, buildings, torii gates, amulets, etc. It’s a color related to luck, the sacred, that coexists in balance with white. It’s love and passion, and it’s evil and blood. These dualities are present everywhere, both in his design and in his story.

[aritsukemo]

A Boring Experiment | Kunikuzushi

Music Artist Kunikuzushi x Idol Reader

Warnings: Takes place in a more modern timeline. Reader is implied to be a performer! Implications of suicide ( reader ). Depictions of manipulation, gaslighting, and unhealthy coping mechanisms that's not substance abuse ahead so read with caution. You have been warned!

A/N: Idk what this is, but it's certainly something.

Part One: A Boring Experiment | Part Two: A Mid-Night Snack

Tagging: @nursedflowers / @kazusys

"I'll never leave you," You whispered to him in the depths of silence one night while combing your hand through his hair—the only time the two of you had any sort of peace from everything. He believed you despite his better judgement, completely clouded by the feeling of the silk of your sleeves wrapped around his being and the delicate aroma of your shampoo.

He should've known better. No, he shouldn't have never trusted you in the first place.

He was told your death was as instantaneous as it was random. As soon as you made contact with the busy road—splat! Just like that. No one thought you'd do it. You showed zero signs of any mental problems, you were loved by so many that the few chronically online haters seemed like little ants.

So why? Why did you jump?

The police went through your stuff and found nothing. Not a final letter reading your tearfelt apology to him, not any documents revealing any mental illnesses you may have hid from him—nothing.

Was he the reason? The thought crossed his mind only to be immediately squashed. He had done nothing but entrust his entire being to you. He let you in, trusted you to hold his heart and keep it safe and you crushed it into dust. If anything, you were to blame for all of this.

Yeah..this is all your fault. Your sudden death—your sudden treachery—was entirely because of you. You were the one who played with his fragile feelings and tore them to shreds once you got bored of him like a puppeteer discarding their puppet.

Never again will he allow this to happen. Never again will he allow someone—anyone—that close to him. Never again will he let a person so much as even make butterflies flutter in his chest. Never.

He'll just focus on striving for the top; a dream you discarded the moment you made it up to that damned rooftop. You always told him he had such a pretty singing voice..well, now's no better time to use it. With this voice, he'll crush your legacy into dust until no one, not even himself, remembers your name.

He's already gotten himself a manager and a sponsor. What's more is that it's all from one person, a man that goes by the name Dottore.

The feeling of deja vu aside, Dottore is exactly what he needed. He gets him, as corny as that sounds. He understands his thought process and agrees that what you did to him was, in fact, a betrayal. He's also helped him realize that all you did was use him for your own sick amusement. You never truly loved him. You just loved the reactions he gave you. How he responded to all your little touches and kisses..and when you grew bored of it all, you left him with nothing but an empty shell.

He'll spell out your traitorous ways in form of thought-out lyrics so that the entire world will behold the lies you told them. That's what runs through his head as swift strokes are made onto paper with a pencil and his feet carry him on stage before his ever growing audience.

..And as all that happens, Dottore is in the corner, grinning from ear to ear.

This was all playing out exactly as he thought it would, as dull as it is for everything to go exactly as plan. It barely took any effort to produce such results too..such a pointless experiment this turned out to be..

Oh well, he supposes he'll play around with this for just a bit longer. Maybe, if he pulls the right strings—possibly remove even more people from the already small group of people that keeps him together—a more interesting result will be produced..

And if not? It's no skin off his nose. He'll just go on to his next test subject as a scientist—no, a doctor—in his standing would.

Dividers were made by me, pictures used are from Pinterest, post formatting is inspired by @xxsabitoxx

[wangxianficfinder]

In the mood for...

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1. Itmf fics where yzy and jfm are actually good parents and wwx has a good relationship with yzy. It'll be great if you have it in Canon era, but if not, then I don't mind them being modern too

Still Waters by PorcupineGirl (G, 6k, wangxian, canon divergence, cloud recesses study arc, YZY pov, arranged marriage, protective YZY) Cloud recesses study arc, YZY pov, she likes WWX and wants what’s best for him. She set up an arranged marriage between him & LWJ as kids but now thinks that LWJ is too cold and unemotional for WWX.

Hope series by RoseThorne (T, 57k, wangxian, WWX & YZY, WWX & JFM, WWX & JYL, YZY/JFM, JC & WWX, LQR & WWX, LXC & JYL, Madam Jin & YZY, LQR & JFM, LXC & LWJ, Transmigration, Time Travel Fix-It, Illnesses, Family, Scars, Memory Loss, Angst, Crying, Music, Nosebleed, Fear, Recovery, Nightmares, Sharing a Bed, Flirting, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Good Parent YZY, Referenced Sexual Slavery, Blood and Gore, Monsters, Sexual Tension, betrothal, Arranged Marriage, Grief, Adoption, POV Third Person, POV Alternating, Implied/Referenced Abuse, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Good Parent LQR, Clairvoyance, Butterfly Effect, Kid Fic, Epistolary, Food, Secrets, Resentful Energy, Cultivation Sect Politics, Character Death)

🔒 Of Destruction and Rebirth by demoniqt (M, 88k, wangxian, JYL/JZX, major character death, rape/non-con, underage, graphic depictions of violence, Slow Burn, Canonical Character Death, God WWX, God Verse, BAMF WWX, Grieving LWJ, Angst and Hurt/Comfort, Canon Divergence, Gods & Goddesses au, JC & WWX Reconciliation, Rabbits, Fix-It, Attempted Sexual Assault, Attempted Rape/Non-Con, Canon-Typical Violence, Blood and Gore, Castration, Lots of it, repeatedly, Punishment, Hell)

🧡 Heaven Has No Rage by flipfloppandas (M, 51k, WWX & YZY, JFM/YZY,  implied wangxian, WWX/WC, WWX/others, rape/non-con, modern, hurt/comfort, protective YZY, good parent YZY, hospitals, medical procedures, vomiting, trauma)

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2. Hi, I'm really in the mood for a fic set in post canon. Wangxian are happily married and there is a JC and WWX reconciliation, but LWJ and JC still don't like each other. I think it is funny if they are trying to tolerate each other's presence for the sake of WWX. But they still give WWX a headache because JC and LWJ still fight ( using words ). Of course it is a bonus if the junior quartet are also in the fic. Expecially JL and WWX having interactions as uncle and nephew. @yunshenlianhua

❤️ Attempting the Impossible by Ariaste for williedustice (T, 36k, WangXian, JC & WWX, Post-Canon, Yunmeng Bros Reconciliation, Adoption, Family Fluff, Kid fic, Family drama, Fluff, Español Translation Attempting the Impossible by Hummingbird_52, [PODFIC] Attempting the Impossible by Ariaste by lunatique)

With Absolute Splendor by Lise (T, 43k, wangxian, JC & WWX, JC & LWJ, JC & JL, Post-Canon, POV JC, JC is Bad at Feelings, JC & WWX Reconciliation, Weddings, Wedding Planning, Some politics, Complicated Relationships, Brothers, let's do some HEALING and RELATIONSHIP BUILDING, ode to Lise's Yunmeng Shuangjie feelings in almost 50k words, jc and lwj still don't like each other very much, Angst with a Happy Ending, some people? plan weddings?? to cope???, Podfic Available)

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3. can i have some fics with similar element to "Content Warning: Romance" by ariaste? as in, wwx feeling uncomfortable with being treated tenderly, but not wholly opposed to it either, so lwj showers him with tenderness. can be fluff, or can contain kinky element (in a "i will force u to receive tenderness but i will stop if u safeword"). bonus points if wwx gets so overwhelmed he starts crying

Stray Cat by Surprised_by_witches (E, 148k, WangXian, Modern AU, Dealing With Trauma, Angst, Depression, OCD, Past Drug Use, Non-Binary NHS, Brief suicide ideation, Slow Burn, Self-Harm, Past Child Abuse)

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4. Hi hi hi! Does anyone know of any fics where WWX and JC get along well? Especially where JC calls WWX ge/brother. Could be any setting/plot, just want that family dynamic!

Lynchpin by ShanaStoryteller (Not Rated, 103k, WangXian, JC & WWX, Time Travel, Fix-It, Lynchpin [PODFIC] by Opalsong, [PODFIC] Lynchpin by Gwogobo)

With Such Impossible Conveyance by Comfect (T, 99k, WangXian, ChengQing, Fix-It, Brotherly Bonding, Angst with a Happy Ending, feelings what feelings, Anger Management, Canon-Typical Violence, Canon Divergence, Canon-Typical Behavior, Swearing, Fluff, Romance, An End to Idiotic Pining, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies, Except The Bad Guys, Humor, [Podfic] With Such Impossible Conveyance by achluophobia, contributor-sky (deepestbluesky), esbielle was also here (esbielle), flamingwell_collabs, GoLBCollabs (GodOfLaundryBaskets), Hechu, Lavendargrrl, mahons_ondine, mistingsidekick, Ohari, semperfiona_podfic (semperfiona), with (fensandmarshes), with (olive2read))

this storm that should not be by TheDameJudiWench (G, 6k, WangXian, Hurt/Comfort, Drowning, Family Dynamics) (link in #8B)

So You Accidentally Kidnapped A Qilin by Mikkeneko (T, 83k, WangXian, Juuni Kokki | Twelve Kingdoms Fusion, mdm yu’s a+ parenting, Identity Issues, Cultivator Politics, Yin Iron Poisoning, Twin Prides of Yúnmèng Feels, Yunmeng Bros Reconciliation, WWX Needs a Hug, Mutual Pining, Miscommunication, Getting Together, Temporary Character Death, Happy Ending, Pacifist WWX, MXTX Big Bang 2021) they do fight, understandable i think given the plot, but they are clearly very close, call each other brother, and have each others' back. in fact that's Mikkeneko's brand, i feel, def check out their other fics

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5. Hello! ITMF Wei Wuxian getting his original body back. In particular, fics which have big dramatic scenes where people are shocked to see WWX in said original body alive again. Thank you so much!

🔒 A Gift in a Curse’s Guise by Setyourlazerstopew (E, 9k, wangxian, post-canon, curse breaking, WWX gets his own body back, strength kink, bottom lwj, undernegotiated kink, manhandling, aftercare)

💖 Transcend by covalentbonds (Not rated, 7k, wangxian, post-canon, fluff & humor, smut, WIP)

a truth universal by curiositykilled (T, 7k, LSZ & WWX, Junior quartet, Post-Canon, Crack Treated Seriously, or at least crack that veered peculiarly into seriousness, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Trauma, Childhood Trauma, WWX's Year of Travel, MianMian cameo, LSZ's fear of abandonment, Misunderstandings, Comedy, Alcohol)

Is Your Old Body Considered a Halloween Costume? by The_peregrine_falcon (G, 3k, WangXian, Fluff, Canon Compliant, Post-Canon)

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6. Hello! Would anyone happen to know of any fics where the yin tiger seal takes a liking to Lan Wangji? @kedaliya

Little Death by sassybluee (E, 28k, wangxian, graphic depictions of violence, Canon Divergence, Dark WWX, Courtesan LWJ, Violent Thoughts, Resentacles, Mpreg, Magical Pregnancy, PWP, Heavy Angst with a Happy Ending, Pining while fucking, Bondage, Bottom LWJ, referenced lwj + others, Blood Drinking, YLLZ WWX, Near Death Experiences, accidental near death experiences, Dissociation, sentient resentful energy, Intersex, Lactation Kink, Cunnilingus, Nipple Play, Praise Kink, Dom/sub Undertones, Under-negotiated Kink, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Pregnant LWJ, Non-Consensual Body Modification) please read the tags n warnings tho :)

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7. ITMF the juniors crushing on handsome Wei Wuxian? It doesn’t have to be smutty or anything like actual serious crushes. I would love to see puppy love or them being in awe of how cool and powerful and charming he is. Thanks

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8. Hi there! Thank you for recommending so many great fics! A) Itmf fics where WWX overcomes his fear of dogs. B) Also itmf fics where LWJ rescues WWX from drowning. Many thanks 🙏

8A)

Imprints by Lisa_Telramor (G, 47k, wangxian, post-canon, humor, panic attacks, phobia recovery, poor life choices, JC & WWX reconciliation, dogs) WWX accidentally adopts a puppy. IIRC, he doesn't fully get over his fear. But he tries working on it, & is at least able to tolerate his own dog

Operation Barking Dog by RoseThorne (T, 20k, wangxian, JL & WWX, Fairy & MXY, WN & WWX, LSZ & WWX, LSZ & LWJ, Family, Mutual Pining, WWX Has a Fear of Dogs, Repaying Debt, Regret, Phobias, Trauma, Memories, Tree Climbing, There Was Only One Bed, Travel, JC in Seclusion, Cynophobia, POV Third Person, POV LWJ, Flowers, Grief/Mourning, WWX in MXY's Body, Pre-Slash, Cats, Dogs, Hair Braiding)

8B)

Ice Makes Warmth by donutsweeper (G, 1k, WangXian, Carrying, Drowning, Huddling For Warmth, Snow Storm) has a brief drowning and rescue scene

Hope Dangling by a String by KouriArashi (M, 70k, wangxian, canon divergence, fix-it, everyone lives, angst w happy ending, hurt/comfort, psychic bond, telepathy, communication, emotional/psychological abuse, jiang family feels, lan family feels, canon-typical violence, canon-typical politics, improper use of sacred forehead ribbons, gratuitous hair washing) note -- it's a long fic & the drowning thing is a major plot point in the last quarter of the fic

🔒🧡 rain falls and soaks into the earth series by RoseThorne (T, 53k, WangXian, WIP, Near Death Experience, Attempt Drowning, Madam Yu Bashing, Recovery, No war AU) can't remember if lwj saves him but wwx almost drowning is a major part of this series

this storm that should not be by TheDameJudiWench (G, 6k, WangXian, Hurt/Comfort, Drowning, Family Dynamics) also a fic where Jiang Cheng saves wwx from drowning? Not sure if requester #8 is interested. Might work for #4 as well, ymmv

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9. Hello thank you for all your hard work! Itmf fics with some quality found family similar to Come Around and Stay, The Martial Arts Instructor Fic You Didn’t Know You Needed, or if you can’t beat them, recruit them. Or with a really great sense of community, like the one fic about the a**hole dog. Modern era preferred but not necessary.

leave all your love and your longing behind by ScarlettStorm (E, 14k, WangXian, Modern AU, no magic, Meet-Ugly, Panic Attacks, autistic lwj, neurodivergent wwx, the neighborhood asshole dog, if you've met one then you know, Hurt/Comfort, Pining, Minor Angst, major shenanigans, Happy Ending, for everyone including the asshole dog, Eventual Smut, switch rights, Sex Toys, horny yearning, Masturbation) asshole dog fic (link to podfic in #14)

Just Ask Me To Stay by mrcformoso (M, 21k, wangxian, past JZN/WWX, modern, Dancer WWX, Musician LWJ, Roommates, Best Friends, Friends to Lovers, Break Up, Post-Break Up, Recovery, Family, Realizing Your Best Friend is the Love of Your Life, WWX Has Self-Esteem Issues, And LWJ is not having it, Sex as Self Worth Reaffirmation, Light Angst, Anal Sex, Anal Fingering, Oral Sex, Domestic Fluff, LWJ Has a Big Dick, WWX Has a Breeding Kink, Size Queen WWX, Belly Bulge, Porn With Plot, Seriously there is a lot of plot, WWX Has Friends, LWJ Has Friends, Hurt/Comfort, A lot of comfort, Romantic Comedy, Cute, Feel-good)

🧡 Faire thee well by Scrippio (T, 77k, WangXian, ChengQing, XuanLi, 3Zun, Modern AU, Renaissance Faire, Mutual Pining, Fluff, Domestic Fluff, Slow Burn)

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10. Itmf fics where

A) wangxian have marital problems like fights, and B) in connection to A, in which after a big fight, wwx being heartbroken just gives up and does something big and lwj is heartbroken too.

C) books which have scenes like, something really sweet and hearty and next moment we realise that this sweetness was only for this bad , very bad thing to happen next.

10 A/B) KILF (Knits I'd Like To Fuck in) by ScarlettStorm (E, 168k, wangxian, modern, sex work, fiber arts, 2nd in series) has a pretty big fight and reconciliation (though they aren’t married) in chapters 17-18

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11. Hello! It's my first time using this blog to look for a fic. I hope I'm doing it right. I'm in the mood for a longer (at least 20k) fanfic, preferably completed but can be WIP as well. I would like an omegaverse fic where neither Wei Wuxian nor Lan Wangji are feminized. I would prefer the fic to be plot-heavy as well. I would love Wangxian to be the main pairing but I'm okay with others as well. Thank you for your hard work. @broodyelii

Coincidence is Another Man's Fate by TriviasFolly (M, 164k, wangxian, rape/non-con, modenrn, A/B/O, Alpha LWJ, Omega WWX, Sexual Harassment, Implied/Referenced Sexual Harassment, WangXian play the long game, UNTIL THEY DON'T, Getting Together, fated pairs, Eventual Attempted Sexual Assult and Recovery, Office au, Mpreg)

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12. Are there any fics featuring a) Fierce Corpse LWJ, or b) NMJ being kept around as a fierce corpse? I've checked the 'Fierce Corpse x' tags for those characters, but there are fewer fics than I'd expected considering how much potential those ideas have, so I'm wondering if there are other fics out there without those tags? @thispatternismine

12A)

blue skies forever Series by rikke (M, 11k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, major character death in a necromantic way, necrophilia also in a necromantic way, canon divergence with the bad ending route, lwj is wwx’s corpse boyfriend)

12B)

A Bell That Tells Us to Rise and Fight by DeerstalkerDeathFrisbee (T, 120k, wangxian, JC/WQ, JYL/JZX, SL/XXC, Canon Divergence, Arranged Marriage, Everyone Lives au, Everyone Needs A Hug, Women Being Awesome, WQ is a goddess, content warning for JGS, content warning for XY, content warning for JGY, WWX's terrible awful brilliant plans, Yunmeng Bros, JYL is an angel, BAMF Women, I take it back NMJ still dies, Minor Character Death, NMJ is BACK and he is NOT HAPPY, MM is not paid enough for this shit)

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13. for the next itmf, i was wondering what are some of the best, most gut wrenching, golden core reveal fics you have ever read? it can be the main focus of the fic or one moment in a long multi chapter but the reveal is a huge part and is beautifully written? hopefully with a happy ending but anything dramatic is appreciated. thanks in advance.

we’re starting at the end by Miss_Enthusiasimal (M, 92k, wangxian, JC & WWX, time travel, canon divergence, implied/referenced suicide, golden core reveal, hurt/comfort, angst, starvation, self harm, cannibalism, amputation, sunshot campaign) I like how the core transfer reveal hits in this fic

golden as they come (but he's bleeding out) by Shializaro (T, 14k, WIP, WangXian, Poisoning, Angst and Hurt/Comfort, Hurt WWX, Post-Sunshot Campaign, Pre-Phoenix Mountain Hunt, references to canibalism, POV LWJ) read their works they make me cry

A Mother’s Love by FirefliesNLightningBugs (M, 170k, WangXian, XuanLi, Canon Divergence, Somebody Lives/Not Everyone Dies, Mostly combo of the Untamed and MoDaoZuShi timelines, Unreliable Narrator, Angst and Hurt/Comfort, Eventual Happy Ending, Miscommunication, Family Feels, Found Family, PTSD, Post-Sunshot Campaign, Political Intrigue, Mystery, POV Multiple, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Strong Female Characters, Additional Warnings In Author’s Note, Good Brother In Law JZX, Genderbent WWX, Intersex WWX, not a/b/o, POV Original Character, Expanded Universe, Unplanned Pregnancy, Golden Core Reveal, WWX Has No Golden Core, Cultivation Sect Politics, Bisexual WWX, YLLZ WWX, Yunmeng Shuangjie, Pining WangXian, Parent-Child Relationship, Getting Together, Protective Yúnmèng Jiāng Sect, MXY Lives) Happens in first few chapters. And a focus on the Jiang siblings' relationship is a continuing theme throughout the fic

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14. In the mood for some good new podfics!

[Cold Read Podfic] leave all your love and your longing behind by Rionaa (E, 10-15 hrs, WangXian, Modern AU, no magic, Meet-Ugly, Panic Attacks, autistic lwj, neurodivergent wwx, the neighborhood asshole dog, if you've met one then you know, Hurt/Comfort, Pining, Minor Angst, major shenanigans, Happy Ending, for everyone including the asshole dog, Eventual Smut, switch rights, Sex Toys, horny yearning, Masturbation) (link to fic in #9)

Teen Project to Change the world (PODFIC) by animeloverhomura, sandradaffodils (Not Rated, 1-1.5/1.5-2 hrs, WIP, WangXian, XuanLi, Watching the Show, With a bit of the Manhua and Book thrown in, Characters Watching Their Series, characters watching the future, BAMF WWX, Fix-It, jgs is his own warning, Attractive WWX, Homophobia, Disturbing Fluff)

[Podfic] lovely thorns and singing crows by semperfiona_podfic (semperfiona) (E, 4-4.5 hrs, WangXian, Modern AU, Addams Family Vibes, meet cute at a funeral, Madam Lán Lives, Light Horror, Curses, Possession, Fluff and Humor, Developing Relationship, Found Family, Weirdo4weirdo wangxian, Eventual Smut, Blow Jobs, Hand Jobs, Audio Format: Streaming, Audio Format: MP3, Audio Format: Download, Audio Format: M4B)

[PODFIC] this humble fox by lostsometime (T, 3-3.5 hrs, WangXian, XiYao, ChengSang, SongXiaoXue, MingSu, Canon Divergence, Creatures & Monsters, Fox Spirit WWX, Minor Character Death, Espionage, Sunshot Campaign, Scheming JGY, Scheming NHS, little dogs for nhs, Slow Romance, War, Happy Ending, Somebody Lives/Not Everyone Dies)

[Podfic] kick at the darkness 'til it bleeds daylight by contributor-sky (deepestbluesky), esbielle was also here (esbielle), glittercracker, GodOfLaundryBaskets, jellyfishfire, kisahawklin, Koontyme, Rionaa, semperfiona (T, 7-10 hrs, WangXian, Hurt/Comfort, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies, Eventual Happy Ending, Getting Together, Burial Mounds Settlement Days, Inspired by The Parent Trap (1998), Kid Fic, teen shenanigans, two a-yuans, Fluff and Angst)

[Podfic] decay by zaffre (G, 1.5-2 hrs, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Angst, Misunderstandings, Miscommunication, big sister wq, warnings for wwx's typical level of self-care, Fix-It, Angst with a Happy Ending, the fluffiest ending, Hurt/Comfort)

The Martial Arts Instructor Fic You Didn't Know You Needed [PODFIC] by enbysaurus_chats (enbysaurus_rex), enbysaurus_rex (M, Over 20 hrs, WIP, WangXian, Modern AU, Martial Arts, Accurate Martial Arts, Not Canon Compliant, WWX Has ADHD, Autistic LWJ, Mutual Pining, WWX being cute with kids, Implied/Referenced Alcohol Abuse/Alcoholism, Trans WWX, Trans WN, Trans JC, Trans OYZZ, PTSD, Slow Burn, BAMF WN, Aro WN, Queerplatonic Relationships, Chronic Illness, Polyamory Negotiations, Found Family, JC & WWX Reconciliation, Tags at the beginning of each chapter)

[Podfic] Take Some Advice Paesano by jennisaisquoi (M, 45-60m, WangXian, Modern AU, Mob, Mafia AU - Clown Version, Humor, Mistaken Identity, Getting Together)

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15. Itmf fics w/ a similar premise to "Cleaning & Courtship" by Winxhelina on ao3. Where being a servant in a cultivation household is actually a specialized skill cause you can't damage spiritual tools or accidentally unleash curses while doing the dusting. But its a high demand w/ low supply & snotty rich cultivators.

~*~

16. Itmf fics where the wen take on wei wuxian's name, esp as a way to hide

only the dead (have seen the end of war) by comforting_monachopsis (T, 42k, WangXian, XuanLi, Temporary Amnesia, BAMF WWX, Sad LWJ, Grief/Mourning, Loneliness, Mild Gore, Medical Inaccuracies, Poetry, Secret Identity, Loss of Identity, Identity Porn, The Science of Cultivation, Good Older Sibling LXC, Good Older Sibling NMJ, Good Older Sibling WWX, NMJ is a Himbo, NHS Ships It, NHS is a Crafty Bitch, This Is Not Going To Go The Way You Think, Angst and Humor, Crossdressing, WWX is Bad at Feelings) It’s brief but they do in comforting_monachopsis’ only the dead (have seen the end of war) Also, check out the YilingWei Sect tag, because that tends to happen a lot in there

🔒 the thread may stretch or tangle but it will never break by RoseThorne (E, 88k, WIP, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Soulmates, Self-Esteem Issues, Fix-It, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Nightmares, PTSD, Handfasting, Panic Attacks, Getting Together, First Time, Aftercare, Implied/Referenced Alcohol Abuse/Alcoholism, Implied/Referenced Torture, Scars, Chronic Pain, Golden Core Reveal, First Time, Switching, sex-related injury, LWJ Stays at the Burial Mounds, LSZ is a Wèi, Good Sibling JC, Dissociation, Burial Mounds Settlement Days)

🧡 Never Again by Hauntcats (T, 67k, WangXian, WWX & WQ & WN, Canon Divergence, Time Travel, Golden Core Transfer Fix-It, Angst, Not JC Friendly, BAMF WWX)

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17. Itmf fic where wwx has another pseudonym and reputation that's fairly well known, but isn't associated with him. Kinda secret identity fics

The Scarlet Lotus by rainbowninja167 (M, 137k, WangXian, Marriage of Convenience, Secret Identity, Fix-It, Angst with a Happy Ending, It Gets Worse Before It Gets Better, Canon-Typical Violence, canon-typical war crimes, Yunmeng Bros, the mortifying ordeal of getting seduced by your own husband, nonlinear chronology we die like cql, just kidding nobody dies in this fic, Slow Burn, Mutual Pining, Miscommunication) when I say I dug through 23 pages of my history for this one…

❤️ By Any Other Name by ShanaStoryteller (Not Rated, 31k, Wangxian, Canon Divergence, Crossdressing, Misunderstandings, Identity Porn, Identity reveal, Polski Translation Pod każdym innym imieniem by tehanu, [PODFIC] By Any Other Name by sakizar) in which WWX hides his resurrection with a new ID courtesy of Jiang Cheng

Rest is Revolution Series by MarbleGlove (G/T, 32k, XuanLi, WangXian, Fix-It, Post-Sunshot Campaign, this might be crack, Niè Cultivation, BAMF NHS, BAMF JYL, Canon Divergence, Madam Lán Backstory, Getting Together) I’m joking but Rest is Revolution series by MarbleGlove is a bit like that

only the dead (have seen the end of war) by comforting_monachopsis (T, 42k, wangxian, JYL/JZX, temporary amnesia, BAMF WWX, sad LWJ, grief/mourning, loneliness, mild gore, secret identity, loss of identity, identity porn, angst, humor, crossdressing)

travelers through the empty gate by stiltonbasket (M, 99k, WIP, WangXian, Royalty, Emperor WWX, Mistaken Identity, Poor LWJ, Bookshop owner LWJ, Intrigue, Court Drama, Forced Marriage, Confused WWX, POV Alternating, Parenthood, Misunderstandings, Empress LWJ, Requited Unrequited Love, Fluff, Humor, Married Life, Angst with a Happy Ending)

the devil's resting place by fuckingspacequeen (M, 27k, WIP, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Grief/Mourning, Mistaken Identity, Canonical Character Death, Canon-Typical Violence, Sentient Burial Mounds, Angst with a Happy Ending, JC & LWJ Friendship, POV LWJ, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies)

Lay my body down by tawaen (M, 48k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Time Travel, Rogue Cultivator WWX, Eventual WangXian, No Golden Core Transfer, Not Cultivation World Friendly, Canon-Typical Violence, Not JC Friendly)

Wei Wuxian, Who’s That? by bumbledees (T, 48k, wangxian, crossdressing, pining, sibling feels)

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If you didn’t get an answer to your ask here, don’t forget to make use of @mdzs-kinkmeme and MDZS KINK MEME on Dreamwidth. Authors actually do use them for ideas. You may get what you order!***Your prompt doesn’t have to be kink! Fluff, crack, whatever - it’s all good!***

[shesjustanothergeek]

His Love

|Aegon II Targaryen x Fem!Reader|

Part Thirty-One

Masterlist of Series

Summary: Being a bastard born in the slums of Flea Bottom was all you were known for. Not the streak of white you had in your dark hair, the violet ring around your pupils, or how your sharp tongue and skills with the blade resembled your father, Daemon Targaryen. You were just a bastard, nothing more, but to him, to Aegon Targaryen, you were everything. You were his love.

Author's Note: This will be a heavy one, besties. We're getting into the story's darker and potentially triggering side, so I've given more detail than I usually do about warnings. Also, the song Ptolemaea by Ethel Cain heavily inspired this chapter, and I really, really recommend listening to it to connect with the reader. Thank you so much for reading!

Chapter Warnings: graphic depictions of dissociation, seizures, sexual assault, misogyny, incontinence, attempted rape, power imbalances, and murder. You have been warned.

Red Butterflies Meanings: courage, passion, the life-death cycle, fire, and survival.

"Even the iron still fears the rot

Hiding from something I cannot stop

Walking on shadows, I can't lead him back, 

Buckled on the floor when night comes along..."

- Ptolemaea, Ethel Cain

Arryk's head spun when he finally reached White Sword Tower, his armor bearing the weight of his emotions as he yanked the knots that held them together, discarding it haphazardly across his chamber. The more he thought of what he witnessed, the more his head pounded, the pain building inside until he could no longer stand it, and vomit spewed into his chamber pot.

He was an imbecile, a fool, no better than the court jester who embarrassed themselves for others' entertainment.

Arryk knew that you and Prince Aegon were close. You spent most of your days with him or Helaena as any kin would, but he should have learned, paid closer attention, and protected you from the Prince's ensnarement.

Sometimes, the knight would notice the Prince too close, a hand resting in an unusual spot or a stare lingering far longer than what was proper, but he thought nothing of it. You were a capable woman. You were far better at standing your ground than any other noblewoman regarding a male's advances. He saw for himself with the Lord Reaper of Pyke.

Perhaps that was a lie. Maybe you were not the strong woman he believed. Maybe you rejected advances because your sights were set on someone else, your heart on someone else, not because you held your honor to a high degree. You made your own choices–made your bed. You could save your own against the vices of the opposite sex yet make the choices of a hoydenish woman, and that was what Arryk sinkingly realized.

It was your choice.

***

Your chest felt hollow as you stared out a paned window in Aegon's chambers as he laced the back of your dress. The hours after Arryk's intrusion were spent inside the Prince's rooms listening to his apologies. His pleas and snivels were disregarded as you stared at the vast expanse of King's Landing.

"I'm so sorry," he cried, rubbing his tear-stained cheeks into the crook of your neck. "I am a fool. I should never have done such a thing. I-I should have protected your honor," he stuttered, swallowing the excess saliva in his mouth. "Please, speak to me. Yell at me, strike me, please just anything."

Your emotions had switched off like the flicker of a candle flame, tears long dried and left to crack on your skin. "What is there to say that you have not?"

Aegon sobbed further into you in admission, the weight of his actions lowering him to the floor as he crumbled at your feet, shoving his face into your thick skirts. He reminded you of his son who screamed and wailed if you ignored him, the same soft, wavy blonde hair below you, begging to be touched.

You did not feel anger towards the Prince. It would have been better if you did, but you could not force it in spite of your best efforts. It felt like nothing. No simmering rage threatened to boil, no sadness or embarrassment pulling at your gut. No emotion. Simply and utterly nothing, and it felt wrong. You needed to show something to sense anything.

Imagining all the hardships you faced, Ma's abandonment and the death of Lyra and Sara proved fruitless. Only when Aegon became too grabby and pinched the flesh of your thighs then did you feel something.

Pain.

It was the sensation that guided the victories of some and the downfalls of others. It brought you back to reality, feeling Aegon's rapid breathing on your wrist and realizing you had not been inside your body despite your mind moving.

"All will be forgiven with time," you decided, hand moving to stroke the fine strands on your fair-haired boy's head, "but you must swear to me you shall never do such a thing again. You will work on yourself to find what causes you to commit such atrocities. I cannot mend what has been broken if you do not know what needs to be."

You sensed Aegon's gaze on you before he spoke, nodding profusely. "I will, I will! I will do anything for you, my love!" he simpered, rubbing the tears and mucus from his lips.

"No, Aegon," you said firmly, his eyes snapping to his bleary ones. You must do this for yourself. Not for me."

He knew better than to speak again, for the only words he would utter would debase himself further, so he bobbed his head and pulled your legs closer in a mock embrace. He loved you so... so much.

"I must confront Ser Arryk about this," you began, your voice one of practice. "You will need to be the unmoving rock that the waves crash against for me. Arryk is furious and I fear he will say things that might hurt me far worse than any blow."

"I shall kill him if he tries to," Aegon declared with a fierce glint in his eyes.

While it pleases you to no end, the depth of his affections is unnecessary.

"No," you stated firmly, bending at the waist to pull your lover up to his full height, "you will do no such thing. I need your support, not your wrath."

He stared at you sternly as if ready to take up arms and defend your honor, and it warmed your heart, finally feeling something other than empty. You smiled delicately, the tug barely there as you kissed the wrinkles between Aegon's pale brows, smoothing his unruly hair.

"I love you," the words were like an oath as if this was the first time you had uttered them, "more than I could ever explain. I want you to remember that. Always."

Aegon was speechless, taken aback by the sudden gravity of your confession that he had already heard many times before. He knew he could only show his appreciation in one way when words were useless. Kissing your lips with a breathless intensity that nearly knocked you off your feet, he slowly kneeled before you.

The Prince wrote his apologies with his tongue on your cunt, drank the sweet nectar from between your legs gratefully, and once you peaked, digits twisting and pulling his silver hair, he thanked you and begged to allow him to do it once more. 

***

It was nearly impossible to track Ser Arryk after he left; even asking his twin brother led you to no answer. There was one place he could be, but you could not set foot in White Sword Tower. The mere thought of it stole the air from your lungs. Instead, you found it less vexing to wait until his inevitable appearance. After all, he swore an oath to you, and those who broke them received punishments worse than death.

Searching for your sworn shield, you ran into some welcoming faces and some not. Young Dyana was the first for you to greet along with another nursemaid now carrying the nearly fluent Jaehaerys and Jaehaera. Your littlest cousins were ecstatic to see you, almost knocking you to your knees as they squealed in delight, telling you of their day. Prince Jaehaerys declared with such vehemence that he would be as skilled as a swordsman as you, and when you brought up his Uncle Aemond, who was just formidable, he shook his head.

"There are a lot of Uncle Aemonds," he said, "there are no yous."

No matter the circumstances, the twins always make you smile. And just the same, Larys Strong's appearance asking you to share a bottle of wine regarding the previous subject he discussed always makes you scowl.

It was the hour of ghosts before the guard change, forcing you to stay awake with needlework in your hands. You applauded him for choosing such a late time, but he underestimated your will, as men often find themselves victims of.

And that was where you found yourself, staring into the once kind, soft blue eyes, now cold, impenetrable, and filled with venom.

Ser Cargyll's reaction confused you. He was your protector, not your father, but even then, you were optimistic that Daemon would be proud of what you had done. Was it because he only knew of the Aegon spoken of in rumors? The one who ate, drank, whored, and gambled in gluttonous amounts. Did he think you needed protecting from the contents of courtly gossip?

"I understand your apprehension about Aegon," you began, taking a deep breath and readying yourself for a monologue, "but I can assure you I can handle a spoiled prince."

"I have no doubt in that," Ser Arryk huffed, crossing his arms with a sneer. You were physically taken aback, your head shaking as if he struck you in the face. "Seeing as you took his cock like a common Flea Bottom whore."

Mouth gaping like a fish, you gasped, surprised at the gull of your sworn shield. The man who had comforted you after the abuse you received from Septa Mariam was insulting you and, in a way, he knew would hurt you deeper.

"I beg your pardon?" you questioned aghast, eyes wide as the conversation between friends turned to one of enemies.

"What? Did he fuck you deaf too?"

You sighed heavily, mouth in a deep frown as you glanced away, attempting to comprehend how to proceed. Anger was slowly rising within you, like the tide of Blackwater Bay, but you refused to let it control you. "I see," you answered dejectedly, "you believe like the rest of them... the rumors." It hurt to finally confront someone who thought of Aegon so lowly, having been woefully unprepared for the sheer hostility. "But you must put your trust in my judgment not to love someone who is so wretched."

"I loved you. I swore my life to you, my blood to you, and yet..." he paused, clenching his chestnut-beard jaw before cracking, "You desire a monster."

Arryk's statements befuddled you, causing you to let out an ugly guffaw. "You speak of oaths, yet your words are empty. Did you not promise to stay by my side no matter the cost? To spill your blood and offer guidance when needed and when not?" He gave you no response, his stare filled with all the hatred of the Seven Hells. "You are sworn to me!" You shouted in desperation, arms gesturing with each passionate phrase he refused to answer with only disgust.

"I am sworn to the King," he answered like a blade cracking through your ribs.

"You are an oath breaker, Ser Arryk Cargyll. Men have been punished more for less," you declared with ire, your voice husky from your previous statements.

Arryk understood what you meant by those words—the unspoken outcome of death to those who returned to their promises.

"You would never punish me," he flatly stated as if he had just said a mundane fact about the weather.

You nodded in acquiescence, sucking your cheek as if you tasted something vile. "You are correct. I am not the vile bastard people claim me to be. I do not betray and break promises I have sworn before the Old Gods and the New! Do not go back on your words simply because of your own emotions."

"I love you! I care about you morning and night, not him! I've been the one to weather the storms of your life! I have protected your honor from those who thought to use it because I believed you were kind and good!" he yelled, blue veins popping from his pale neck. "I thought of breaking my vow to the King for you! Creating a life for us where you would be free of judgment and duties, from the whispers and gossip of nobles, but you-"

"You speak as if it is my fault for your fantasies, that I gave you love letters and kisses and sang ballads." You refused to accept any blame for this. "You are a man and responsible for your own emotions, not me. Take your leave and return when you have come to your senses," you declared with finality.

He acted like a petulant child- far worse than you had ever seen Aegon. The man seemed entitled to your emotions as if you owed him for not reciprocating his feelings.

Arryk could not stand this. How could you be so selfish and uncaring? He loved you. He loved you! Why didn't you love him back?

"You are your blood," he spat, raising a gloved finger in ridicule, "a harlot and a monster."

It felt as if you got a blow to the chest, arms wrapping securely around yourself. You loved your Father and your Mother; they were good people. So why did it hurt?

Ser Arryk left without another word, large oak doors slamming shut behind him. He entered without hesitance when he reached another set of intricately carved wood, fitting that of only those who lived in Maegor's Holdfast.

The Queen sat within her solar, a cup of evening tea resting on a saucer in her lap. She wore her dressing gown, staring idly into the warmth of the fire as Ser Arryk's presence caused a start. Ser Criston stood not too far from Alicent, the hand on the pommel of his sword as he began to scold the knight.

"Ser Cargyll, what is the meaning of this?" Criston questioned, irritation laced in his words. Arryk had not realized he was out of breath until he attempted to speak, words becoming difficult to create. "I must speak with her grace. Tis a matter of great urgency."

Ser Criston bristled, scowling as he stood tall in the face of the disheveled knight. "You may speak to her highness on the morrow. It is too late for audiences and hardly proper."

Arryk sucked in a breath as he readied to protest but was stopped short by the rise of the Queen's hand. Her protector stared at her in confusion, telling with his eyes that he was not pleased with her allowance of this.

"Please, ser," Alicent spoke with her smooth alto, gesturing to the area before her.

Ser Arryk took a few calming inhales, wanting to speak as eloquently before the Queen Consort of the Seven Kingdoms, giving her a brief bow. He was unsure of how to word it. He knew if he spoke with the scorn he felt within, Alicent might not perceive the honesty of his confession and take it as an upset man with bruised pride.

"I have served as a steadfast member of the Kingsguard. I have not shied away from any challenge nor dishonored him," he began, the rise and fall of his chest steady. "I did not cower when your father, the Lord Hand, tasked me with protecting the King's granddaughter. However, lately, there have been revelations that have caused me to question where my loyalties lie. I seek your guidance, my Queen, regarding the Princess." The Queen stared at him with concern, brows wrinkled, and plump lips pursed. 

"I happened upon your son, Prince Aegon, and the Princess within his bed chambers."

Ser Criston could not hide his shock, glancing at Queen Alicent to see her unphased reaction. "I initially believed the situation to be non-consensual, but her grace explained that it was not, that they are in love. It worries me that if word should travel and Prince Daemon discovers the relationship, I should be punished for not protecting her honor."

He purposefully hid the valid reason for his appearance, knowing he could be punished if he revealed it.

Alicent inhaled, silently relieved that someone else shared her concerns regarding you and her son. She placed her tea on the foot table before her, gently wiping the corners of her lips and clearing her throat.

"I understand your concern, Ser Arryk. Who all knows of this?" she inquired with a frown.

"Just my brother, Erryk, and I. He has known for some time but protects the Prince's secrets."

"I see," she responded, voice resigned. "I thank you most graciously for coming to me. You have done your duty well, ser. You needn't shoulder this burden any longer. I shall take care of the matter. You may take your leave."

The knight bowed his head, the weight on his chest still there, but not for political affairs, as he swiftly exited, thanking the Queen for her time.

Criston studied Alicent once the knight left, eyes scanning over her form. He could tell from the years of servitude when she was hiding something, her fingers begging to pick at her digits, but being the ever-dutiful protector, he remained silent.

The Queen stewed in the quiet, her teeth gnawing on her plush lip. Endless outcomes ran wild through her mind, all of them creating a ball of anxiety. Finally, when she was too far lost in her thoughts, she grabbed her tea and took a calming sip.

"Ser Criston," she spoke, startling her sworn shield, "please summon Lord Larys. I wish to speak with him."

***

You found yourself within the Godswood as you always did in times of strife, gazing up into the golden leaves of a Cottonwood, the soft rustle of branches reminding you of inaudible whispers. They were hard to make within the darkness, only able to see the outlines with the dusting of stars, but they gave you comfort. The Old Gods watched you with their unseen eyes as your fingertips traced the rough bark, grass crunching beneath your boots.

You recalled your first time within the Godswood since arriving in King's Landing, trying to seek peace yet being disturbed by a drunk and blubbering Aegon. The memory pulled a smile onto your cold cheeks, a nostalgic feeling coming over you as you thought of your time under the Heart Tree together. It felt like an age ago now. Such foolishness you did then...

You hadn't returned to Aegon yet, needing time within yourself to fully comprehend such a betrayal from your knight. It was still raw, the wound gaping and pooling with blood as it seeped into the sod below. Arryk hurt you far more than you ever thought him capable.

Your relationship with the knight began purely logistically. You needed to gather as many allies as possible, and you had succeeded by having your maids, Madam's web of spies in the Keep, and a Prince and Princess. The now missing piece was a protector. Some of you desired to march to the Commander of The Kingsguard, Ser Harrold, and tell him how Arryk had betrayed his oath in more ways than one, but you could not. 

You had unknowingly shattered Ser Arryk's heart, and some part of you that had grown fond of the knight was pained because of it. You were confident that he would return once he fully understood you did not mean to do so and would forgive him.

Suddenly, a quiet cracking noise came from the far corner of the Godswood. Your head snapped, and your hand instinctively went to your dagger. Instead of a foe, the metal and glass shack of Helaena's butterfly hut stood, the rhythmic thunk, thunk, thunk becoming louder as you trekked across the yard.

You observed in awe as a newly hatched butterfly, a mix of red, black, and tan, white dots that looked like eyes, flapped its inexperienced wings, repeatedly flying into the glass wall. Your heart broke for the insect, glancing at the door. If you unlatched the shack, you could free the singular insect for a time of freedom beyond its transparent cage but doom the rest of the cocoons to the frost. Or you could leave it to be the only one that dies, continuing the life cycle for the dozen other insects evolving into their destined form.

You stared at the lone creature for a moment, your teeth tugging at your lip before making your way to the inside of the Red Keep.

***

When you entered your hall, seeing no guard at the door was surprising. Usually, you expect to catch a member of the Gold Cloaks fast asleep outside your door, especially if Ser Arryk was not posted. You did not think the knight was so careless as to leave a member of the royal family unguarded, but people acted out of character in anger, so you did not hold it against him.

Upon entering your chambers, you found the cause of the missing protector. Lord Larys Strong sat at your dining table, the flagon of wine he promised glinting in the candlelight.

"I see now why there is no guard at my chambers," you began, eyes scanning the Lord for any potential threat. "Did you pay him or offer a girl indebted to you?"

Larys grinned, mirth in his stare, and bowed his head as his palms rested on the firefly of his cane. Would it be so terrible if you broke the thing?

"Princess, you speak so lowly of me. Words like that wound a man's heart." He brought his hand to his chest, emphasizing the mock pain. "I have come to have that drink with you."

You stared at him skeptically, your eyelids slit as you placed your fur coat across the back of an empty chair at the table. "I do not recall agree to such an invitation," you spoke, taking your seat and peering into the red liquid inside the glass.

Larys took his drink, lifting his cup in a slight toast. You followed his actions, sipping the cup demurely as only an action of politeness. It stunned you momentarily that the Lord had chosen your favorite Essosi wine, flashing him a tight-lipped smile as he watched expectantly. "I do hope your only reason for being here is not regarding our previous conversation. My mind has not changed."

"I understand it has not, Princess, but I want you to understand that I have yet to fail the Queen and do not intend to do so now," he responded with a stern furrow of his brow.

Rolling your eyes, you groaned, taking another sip of your wine before speaking. "I am not leaving King's Landing, and that is final. Queen Alicent knows now that I shall not, and neither of you has the power to do so." You stood from your chair, fists on your hips as you leaned against the oak table, looking down at the crooked man. "I am here in my Mother's stead. You recall the Lords trying to remove me from the Small Council and how it faired?"

The Master of Whispers nodded in recollection, crossing his ankles as he gazed above at you, his mousy brown hair falling behind his ears. "I remember that, indeed. It was quite a sight," he chortled, "you inspired enough courage in the King to leave his sick bed, and not even the namedays of his children could do that."

You giggled at his words, but it quickly became a cough, your mouth dry as you took a swig of the Essosi wine to coat your throat. "Yes, and you remember his words? That I'm to be retreated as an extension of Princess Rhaenyra. You would not remove the heir to the Iron Trone from her rightful seat?"

The Strong Lord hummed through his nose, taking a drink in silence, his beady stare on you. Something was always hidden with his gaze as if he knew the very thoughts inside your head. You grew uncomfortable as your mind wandered, fidgeting with the golden rings on your fingers. The betrayal of the Red Keep was profound, which you understood from a very young age and was the whole purpose of your prolonged stay here, but it still amazed you when you met it head-on.

The only reason for the questions around your Mother's legitimacy as heir was the fact that she had a cunt instead of a cock. The ruling lords feared what change Rhaenyra would cause with her rule. It threatened the centuries of tradition they had created, a tradition that served to their advantage. If a woman ruled the Seven Kingdoms, what would that mean for them? What would it mean for all the eldest daughters tossed aside in favor of a younger son?

It would mean women would no longer be the property of their fathers and husbands. They could not barter and sell for their advantage. It would tell women they weren't the lesser sex; they were not subservient but equal, and that threatened men's power.

"My Mother will create a new order for the realm, Lord Larys," you declared flippantly, your palms becoming sticky. "She will not be the exception but the rule, and you will either bend the knee for her when the time comes or lose your life." You raised a brow as if to invite challenge, daring the Lord to say the treasonous words that were written across the lines of his face.

Larys smirked as always, sighing as he twirled his cane between his digits. "We shall see," he stated wistfully, eyes trained on the object in his hands.

You moved yourself off the table to protest but nearly fell, an abrupt burning sensation radiating within your gut, catching you unaware. Groaning, you cradled your stomach and rested on the wood for support. You felt your body begin to weaken with every minute of discomfort, a sudden onset of symptoms that reminded you of when you ate tainted food. Grunting, you glanced at Larys, the man now observing you with an expecting look in his blue eyes.

"I apologize, my Lord. I believe I may have eaten something foul today," you gritted out, sweat beginning to seep from every pore in your body. "Please, excuse me and we shall reconvene at another time."

"No, Princess. I intend to stay. As I have said, I have yet to leave my Queen's wishes unfulfilled, and you are no different."

You stared at him perplexed, vision going blurry momentarily as a stabbing pain scorched your insides, and suddenly it all made sense.

Your gaze quickly flickered over to the half-drank cup of wine, the absence of a guard, and Larys' calm demeanor. You could see it in his eyes, the same cold, icy gaze as he watched your knees buckle beneath you. Pushing yourself off the table, you made your way for the exit. You would not sit idly and allow this man to escape with whatever he had done. You would fight until your heart finally ceased to beat.

The Lord stuck out his cane before you gained enough distance, causing your knees to crash against the stone floor, pain radiating throughout your body.

You whimpered pitifully, the sound causing shame to rise as you attempted to push yourself up, but your arms gave out, collapsing again. Larys stood from his chair, his dragging gait and rhythmic tapping of wood creeping up behind you as you turned to face him, back pressed to the cold floor.

"Tell me," you rasped, the mere act of speaking creating a combination of exhaustion and nausea, "what have you done?"

He peered down at you through the end of his nose, the tip of his cane pressing into your chest as you pushed your body away. You couldn't catch your breath, a buzzing within your ears sounding as Larys began to speak.

"I saw you, the morning of Ser Lorgan's death, in the lower quarters of White Sword Tower. I followed you in." He lowered himself to the ground next to you, your limbs unable to move as a helpless terror rose within your heart. "I saw what you did, Princess. You murdered an innocent man, severing his head from his body, and when finished, sat at the table, you broke your fast."

Tears cloud your vision, leaking from your eyes with abandon as you struggled to breathe, the once thoughtless task becoming laborious. He knew all this time that you were the killer the scullery maids feared at night, yet he said nothing. He could have easily used that knowledge to blackmail you from Kings Landing. So why... why did Larys Strong choose death? What could he possibly gain from your murder?

Larys' hands made their way to your skirts, sliding the thick fabric you once held pride in up your legs. You could not feel the sensation, nor your lower limbs, horror tearing at your mind as his fingers went to your stockings next.

"Stop," you inaudibly muttered, mouth full of lead. "Make it stop."

You were praying to anything, anyone who would listen to your cries– any god, Old or New, the Seven, Valyrian, Pentosi, the Drowned, anyone who would help save you from this fate. It was not enough that Larys had incapacitated you; he had to defile you, too.

"I was confused, at first, why you would seemingly murder someone at random. It took time, but eventually, a connection was made. Ser Edder and Lorgan were the ones that punished the two women who attempted to help you flee all those years ago." Larys removed your boots and stockings, baring your unmoving limbs for his eyes to feast upon. "Lyra and Sara I believe. A whore and a maid."

He stroked his thumb over the arch of your foot, admiring the concave flesh as he brought it to his lips. You gagged, abdomen lurching as you turned your head to the side, a mixture of blood and digested food spewing from your mouth and onto the floor beside you. The vile man proceeded to cherish the soles of your feet as one would a jewel, nuzzling his face into them as he licked a stripe from your heel to toe.

"Make it stop. Please, I've had enough," you cried, the words only a murmur.

There was fear within you, but what overshadowed it was sadness. You had finally found the happiness you craved, the missing piece within your life that would ultimately make you whole, and now it would be taken away. You did not mourn for the loss of life. You wept for Aegon, Luke, Jace, Joffery, Helaena, Jaehaerys, Jaehaera, your Mother and Father for the years you would miss, for the events you would never see. 

You would never see the twins grow into adults, little Aegon and Viserys speak their first words, or the babe growing within Helaena's belly. You would not see Aegon become the man he was meant to be, to watch him blossom into the loving father and husband he was always capable of being. You feared what would become of him without the one he depended on. Would all your planning and sacrifices be for naught?

Larys glanced back up at you, noticing the pile of gore beside your head, stained lips and tears, smiling as he gingerly placed your foot down, proceeding his assault onto the next.

You were relieved to some degree that you had lost all sensation in the lower half of your body, a welcomed gift from whatever poison he chose.

"You poor thing. Sweet, mourning lamb, there's nothing you can do. It's already been done," he cooed, leaning above you to brush a strand of loose ebony hair sticking to your forehead. "The poison will kill you soon, and you shall not remember a thing," he declared, kneeling as he shoved himself between your legs, undoing the laces of his breeches.

"Poison Hemlock is often mistaken for carrots by young children in the Riverlands. 'Tis a volatile thing. Sometimes, it starts with vomiting, tremors, and uncontrollable movements of the muscles, but one thing is for certain: you will die tonight, Princess, alone and at the mercy of a man who you think yourself above."

Your heart began to race impossibly faster as Larys shifted your skirts, pulling the knot of your small clothes and dragging them down your legs. He brought the sweat-soaked fabric to his nose, burying his face as he inhaled your natural scent. It sent another wave of disgust, coughing up excess saliva and leftover blood as you choked.

Suddenly, you felt as if a wave rolled through your head, an intense pressure pounding inside your skull as you lost all the breath within your lungs. Larys looked up at the noise, seeing your horror-stricken gaze as your body went rigid, your eyes involuntarily rolling back until he saw nothing but the whites of them. Your body began to convulse uncontrollably, your mind losing consciousness and control.

Larys sneered in distaste at the abrupt cut off to his fun, adjusting himself more comfortably between your legs. He had hoped there would be more time before the hemlock took full effect, but this would have to do. At least he would no longer hear your pathetic mewls of protest.

He waited patiently until the tremors subsided, leaning back on his haunches as he observed the pink bubbly froth seep from your mouth, tearing his aching cock from his trousers as he began to stroke himself to total hardness.

Larys felt the warmth of liquid on his knees before he saw it, a puddle of urine soaking through the material of his breeches as he moved your legs over to the side. He was disgusted with his now urine-soaked clothes, insulted that you would do such a thing as if you had control over it, standing with the help of his firefly cane. He peered down at your still convulsing form, intrigued by your body's lack of control despite your unconsciousness.

It was disappointing that he could not derive some pleasure from his actions. It left him woefully unfulfilled, but he was satisfied enough to have kept his promise to the Queen, to reduce someone who thought so highly of themselves to a pissing, vomiting mess. Larys left your chambers with a smile on his mousy face, as silent as the rats within the walls of the Keep. 

Masterlist of Series

So what do y'all think? I warned that it would get darker here, but it's ASOIAF. What did you expect? I wanted to express the reader's fear and the sense of violation she felt during the poisoning scene, so I hope I did a good job with that. I also really wanted to not just do the type of poisoning scene where people cough up some blood and then be done with it. I'm probably on the FBI's watch list for my search history because I did so much research on the effects of Poison Hemlock and different types of seizures. XD

Also, when I was little, I gave my mom a bouquet of poison hemlock. To be fair, the white flower is pretty, and I was like 8.

I hope you enjoyed the chapter, and thank you so much for reading!

Tagged Peeps: @zeennnnnnn, @malfoytargaryen, @targaryencore, @justasmallbean, @omgsuperstarg, @sommornyte, @silverslive, @ynbutbetter, @legolas017, @iiamthehybrid, @dd122004dd, @ladybug0095, @millies0bsimp, @kalfild, @sheislonelyalways, @tempt-ress, @minttea07, @trikigirl271, @esposadomd, @prettywhenicry4, @daenerysqueenofhearts, @justarandomflowerchildofthenight, @pastelorangeskies, @existential-echo, @priyajoyy, @merovingianprincess, @candy12110, @w3ird11, @ruhjkie, @somemydayy, @marikkjj, @zillahvathek, @sunfyresrider, @heavenly1927, @hjgdhghoe, @im-sidney, @aurorathi, @marihoneywk, @xitsemm

[angelseverything]

Pinning Wings ~

A Yosano backstory fanfiction

Big thank you: to @arborvitaeandrogyne for being my beloved beta, @lifeiz for helping me with the banner and @sister-lucifer for the divider!

Fandom: Bungou Stray Dogs

CW: Graphic depiction of head and neck injury • Mori is gross no way around it so DNI if that bothers you • Canon behavior • Manipulation • Emotional distress • Panic attack

Word Count: 14,020

Synopsis: She has no clue how instrumental she is to securing their victory in The Great War. This power will go far beyond what she could even think is possible, he'll make sure of it. He'll take her, indoctrinate her, to the future, his future.

Mori fought the urge to simply just get up, commandeer her and vanish. He looked down at himself. No, not like this. This situation requires a fair amount of sensitivity and prerequisites if he's going to get the ideal result. He'll need to meticulously draft up that document and get permission for this operation. Then, he’ll do his due diligence in researching Akiko Yosano’s family, history, and all the things she’ll need once they begin the assimilation process. He thought how lovely it would be to have such a charming girl stand by him. Soon enough, he'll begin the preparations.

After finishing up his tea and yokan, Mori left the money on the table and walked right out, making sure to leave behind a generous tip. It was only fair, for he was about to take something far more precious…

A/N: (Aka my take on the story of how Mori discovered Yosano and drafted her into the military). Also if you want the Ao3 link it is the chaptered version! More notes at the end of the fic :)

  ~A child fervently pursues the flutter of wings. Once his eyes were set on the butterfly, he wouldn't stop until he had caught it, for it was just too lovely to leave alone. The insect’s small frame undulates up and down, frantically flying for survival.~

It was his day off. A rarity for the man, however the day was not for recreation. Ougai Mori may not have been on the clock but his mind still revolved around the state of his underdeveloped special ability infantry corps. A war using abilities be damned if the ability users under his command were subpar at best. He was granted clearance to lead an experimental platoon of men to fight in close quarters combat on Tokoyamijima Island. The battles will be beginning soon. The success of their performance would determine if special abilities were to be fully integrated into the Japanese military. They needed to be exceptional. The young man was under a lot of pressure, being only 26 and already the chief medical officer meant it was his duty to order his group of men and allocate treatment depending on priority. He was the scale that weighed the difference between life and death for those he led. With the narrative of war changing before their very eyes, special abilities had completely dominated the battlefield altering what was humanly conceivable when it came to mutilating bodies, claiming territory and imposing oppression amongst populations. 

  A newly forming headache throbbed at his temples, for he was also due to write a regiment in document form and submit it to his Commander in Chief defending the use of special abilities. Mori knew this needed to be approved and enacted; effective immediately if they wanted to stand a chance in victory. With the Great War coming to an end and the entirety of America and Europe prowling for more power, they needed to act with twice the tact and thrice the ferocity if they wanted to evade the oncoming annihilation. 

  As Mori was lost in thought, his stomach churned, pulling his attention away from the ongoing war. Tea sounded nice, it was his day off after all so he decided to go on a walk. There weren’t many people out and about this early in the morning in Sakai city, where he was based. It’s better to get to know the place a little more, just in case he should need anything. With plain clothes on he strolled out. Small leaves had begun to make their return after the frigid winter months, buds poking out from the branches speckling them in light green. Song birds sat perched up top chirping out to one another in their shrill song. The spring breeze was light but chilly, just enough to pierce through a jacket, he quickly strode across the quiet street and into a local yokan shop. The little sign on the glass said open. Smirking selfishly to himself, hoping to find a cute girl to take his order and cater to his needs.

  ~ ~ ~

  Upon walking in, a small bell attached to a string chimed cheerily signifying his entry. The shop was completely enveloped in the scent of a warm sugar and red bean paste. Decorative scrolls hung from the walls and smooth wooden paneling covered the wall behind the glass display containing all the flavors of yokan, much to Mori’s dismay the women at the front seemed to be in her fifties, likely the owner of the shop. Her dark graying hair was tied back as she looked at him with kind crinkled eyes.

  “Welcome! Welcome! Come in, it's still cold out these days.” She gestured to him smiling. “I’m Yosano Satoko and I’ll be serving you today. What would you like?”

  “It is, isn't it?” He mused. “I’ll have an order of mizu yokan and a small black tea.” He stated, brushing a rouge strand of inky hair to the left of his face with the back of his hand. 

  “Wonderful! Please have a seat wherever you’d like. I'll be there with your order shortly.” 

  With that he nodded his head and walked to find a place to sit. The store was rather wide, a mother feeds her squirming toddler confections close to the front, and there, by the right window, a businessman tapping away on his computer grunting in frustration as his coffee grows cold. With the intention of mulling over his options and obligations for the military he chooses a booth at the back left corner oriented towards a closed door at the front of the shop. 

  It suddenly swings open and a young girl carrying a big box walks out, a very young girl. She couldn't have been any older than 12. She was just… lovely. Mori’s mud colored eyes dirtily trailed her up and down. Her shiny onyx hair bobbed up and down and rested right under her chin once she finished placing the box behind the glass containing the yokan. She was adorned in a pale yellow dress with ruffles on the straps. A white apron was tied around her waist finishing with a bow in the back. Though her frame was slight and doll-like there was purpose in her walk, an urge to complete the task. Good, he thought, all young girls ought to have this much vigor. She was truly a delight to watch, such youth, such freshness… Far sweeter than any yokan being served. Wasn’t she too young to be working? Regardless, it didn’t matter to him when she was just that adorable. The older woman patted her head, but the little one was in no mood. In her swift haste to return to the room she turned and her dress fluttered behind her. Mori’s fixed gaze stalked her as she paid no mind to the patrons of the shop.To his gratification the door was left open ajar and as the girl slipped inside, he cocked his head to the left to get a better view. Happy to just idly watch her. 

  “Hurry Soshichi!” The girl exclaimed in a hushed yell. There was another figure there, an even smaller boy. “Finish preparing the chestnuts, we’ll need them for the syrup soon. It’s almost rush hour and mom will be busy out there with serving, so I need to be ready with the next orders of yokan when the ones in the display run out!”

  “But Akikooooo!” He whined. “I don't like working with the chestnuts! The syrup always makes my hands really sticky and washing them off always takes a long time, I don't want to!”

  “Shhhh! Be quiet, aren’t you ashamed? The customers outside will hear you. What will you do once we get noise complaints? I don’t want to hear it. The usual workers are out today and dad is out buying more supplies. It's all hands on deck today, so do your part! We need to help and we need to be useful.” Akiko viciously hissed. Soshichi hung his head in shame, hair shagging over his face. Both her hands were placed on her hips and her chin jutted out in annoyance. Rolling her eyes she sighed out, “You're still too little to help with the actual cooking, we don't want you to get hurt. Believe me, I promise you will be working when you're older. So just leave that to me and stick to the easy stuff yeah?” Her eyes softened. “And if you’re good I’ll let you mix the yokan paste.”

  “Really!?” He gleefully piped up hopping from foot to foot.

  “Yes, now go do what I said. I have to get started cooking the next mixture.” With that she disappeared deeper into the building to what seemed to be the kitchen. It was surprising how far back the room actually went.

  Mori snapped out of his trance the moment Satoko Yosano appeared before him with a plate of mizu yokan and his steaming black tea.

  “Here you are sir, enjoy.” Her voice a soothing hum, she bowed politely and walked away. So this was the mother of those children... Lucky woman, they seemed well in spirit.

  Upon returning his gaze to the room he couldn't help but chuckle at the pure audacity from springy, young, Soshichi. He had completely abandoned his post by the chestnuts and began gathering random ingredients from the high shelves. Fully disregarding what his older sister had asked of him. Typical behavior of a youth he presumed, he’d admired how freeing the feeling is to act on your own accord regardless of what superiors ordered. 

  The boy climbed a creaky wooden ladder angled at the wall to reach the top shelf where a glass jar of fine white powder sat. His era of joyous rebellion was just as short-lived as his life…

   In an effort to reach the jar one of his tiptoed feet lost its footing, before he could even yelp, he went plummeting down smacking his head on the table letting out a grotesque crack. His body then crashed to the ground shoulder first, his head lagging behind soon rolling to follow the sharp and sudden movement. His body lay there, contorted and broken, his fingers convulsing. Blood began to pour from the front of his head dripping onto his white shirt and denim overalls pooling around his upper body.

  Mori sat there stone-faced, he'd witnessed plenty of horrors at the hospital, and myriad more in war, but this was just hapless. Foolish thing, he thought. It's one thing to act of your own accord but to put yourself in a position that you are incapable of overcoming is another. Such a shame, such a waste, to lose life this early. That child had hardly had the chance to live. Mori’s knees moved into action. He is a doctor after all, might as well take a look. He'd have to be intensely careful though, head injuries are incredibly delicate, this is a guaranteed trip to the hospital for surgery if the boy isn't dead already. He'll need to call an ambulance and prioritize vertebrae stability if they want the young boy to ever walk again but with the way his neck was oddly bent the chances of that were grim. Incredible how fatal a seemingly small fall can permanently alter the trajectory of one's life. His poor body. His poor family. 

  Before Mori could even make it out of the booth, the young girl bursted into the room after hearing the thud, her gaze quick and sharp. Despite the noise the fall had made, the multiple coffee machines running, humming, beeping and the high-pitched squeals coming from the toddler the sound was rather muffled. All she could do was groan at the sight before her. Groan? She just witnessed the broken bleeding body of her younger brother and she just groaned? Mori stood there in calculative silence, baffled, she then spoke up. 

  “Special ability, ‘Thou Shalt Not Die!” Glittering purple and blue butterflies materialized out of thin air. Soon one started glowing until it was nothing but a bright silhouette, it flew directly onto the boy's crumpled form, exploded into sparkles and lit up the room in its brilliance. Its radiant particles glimmer and dissipate into thin air. The light enveloped the boy, and as if he was a knot being untied his body began to reset exactly to the way he was before the impact. He lay there sitting in his own blood, skin shiny and soft, aside from his crimson stained clothing, there was no evidence of the injury left on his body. 

  “What were you thinking! What did I just tell you!?” She pinched his earlobe with her thumb in forefinger, twisting it painfully. “Don't you know how dangerous it is to reach up there at your size? I mean come on Soshichi, how hard is it to follow instructions? Don’t be such an idiot! You'll never get anywhere if you can't listen to people! And just as I had the burner going too.”

  “Ah, ah! Akiko stop!” He shouted as he pathetically pawed at her wrist but his attempts were futile since she was stronger and he was still weak from the transformational healing.

  “No! Clearly I need to stretch your ear out because you can't listen! I just can't even understand why you would do that after I specifically told you to focus on the chestnuts. You can't just do whatever you want whenever you want, you won't help anyone that way!”

  “But I was trying to help! I was grabbing the kanten powd-”

  “Stop it!” She cried out, the boy couldn’t help but shake his head and wriggle in her grip. 

  “The customers will hear you!” He squeaked in a last ditch attempt to free himself. She shakily exhaled and released his ear from her prison and her face began to grow red and puffy. It was then, a mixture of hot and distressed tears began to leak from her violet eyes. The horror and pressure of this moment finally catching up to her. How she hated crying in front of people.

“What if I didn't hear you fall, Soshichi? What would we do!? I don't know how much time a person can stay dead before my ability doesn’t work anymore! I don't know the limits of how much I can fix you! I've had to do it three times already and that's not okay.” She gently takes his face in her hands, her eyes pleading. Soshichi’s lips start quivering at seeing his older sister so troubled, his Akiko hardly ever cries. He quietly started to hiccup, guilt and regret making their way over his features. “I know you don’t do it on purpose but you’re stressing me out. That's not ok, Soshichi… Sometimes I feel I can't take care of everyone and I need you to do your part. Mom, dad, Haruki and Sayako need you, and I need you too... You would have died three whole times if I didn’t have this ability. What if I didn’t have it? What if I couldn’t save you? You need to think about that. Please, please, I’m begging you Soshichi. Be more careful. We can’t keep doing this.”

  “I'm sorry! I'm so, so sorry!” He lept into her arms and his wails were dulled by her body, her arms wrapped around him and she gently rocked both of themselves back and forth on the floor where they sat, kissing the top of his head. She softly rubbed his back and shushed his whimpers comforting the both of them. 

  “I think it's best if you go home Soshichi. Go take a bath, I’ll clean the rest of this up.

  “But Akiko-”

  “No, please, just let me do this, go rest you had a long day and just…” She put a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Think about what happened today and what you will change.”

  “I-ok.” He obediently got up and grabbed his coat, putting it on to hide the stains from the accident; then he hurried away out the back door. Akiko got up, removed her soiled apron and dusted herself off. Taking a moment to steady herself, her body drew in deep breaths as she stretched her arms upwards. Soon she returned with cleaning supplies. Unsuspecting of the painfully perceptive eyes that monitored and noted this dreadful event.

  Mori's eyes were completely blown-wide. What an ability… He'd never seen anything like it. “Thou Shalt Not Die” rang in his head. His mind was racing to process what he just witnessed. He thought just how correct he was to take a liking to her so soon. What an extraordinary child. Very befitting of what her name meant, “bright child”, if not her by her ability, than by her character so kind, so considerate, responsible, and feisty. It was hard to believe she was so young, incredibly well spoken, and assertive. One whose abilities and talents were wasted, no, squandered on a place like this. He needed to know more about her ability immediately, her limits, capability, drawbacks and potential. He needed to be with her, to study her. Yes. With her by his side all would be right; she was the key. He refuses to let this darling unbloomed flower grow in the wrong garden. 

  He leered ecstatically, this girl was exactly what he was looking for. She was the answer. with an ability like that she could keep resurrecting soldiers; they'd be, essentially immortal… He imagined just that, an immortal army created from her ability full of fighting soldiers who will just keep defying death, resurrection becoming their new code of conduct. Retreating had just become obsolete. Losing wouldn't be plausible with such an overwhelming advantage on their side. What a treat this really is, he thought. Any ability looked pathetic and meek next to hers, his own paled in comparison.

   Immediately having a new idea for what he was going to write about, the “Immortal regiment” sounds fitting. He'll have to write and submit it to the Special Ability Doctrine and his words would definitely cause some heads to turn but an opportunity like this does not come so casually. He didn't care whether it was divine intervention or just folly luck but this little girl has changed the very concept of war, once again. He refuses to fall behind in history, not when there will be such a magnanimous tool at his command. In war there is no salvation. Through this brutality the United States was able to capitalize on the rest of the nations. Becoming an elitist hegemon that ravaged through taking whatever it wanted remorselessly. Using special abilities is the only way to compete as Europe began to utilize similar tactics, quickly catching on. Those who clawed their way to the top to avoid their own peril in mediocrity by abandoning the old and the faulty. Tradition has no place in the new world that thrives in bloodshed and gore. Never has. This isn’t just a tactic to avoid destruction and forge allies. No. It’s a leveraging opportunity to attain a foothold in the globe’s power system.

   She has no clue how instrumental she is to securing their victory in The Great War. This power will go far beyond what she could even think is possible, he'll make sure of it. He'll take her, indoctrinate her, to the future, his future. 

  Mori fought the urge to simply just get up, commandeer her and vanish. He looked down at himself. No, not like this. This situation requires a fair amount of sensitivity and prerequisites if he's going to get the ideal result. He'll need to meticulously draft up that document and get permission for this operation. Then, he’ll do his due diligence in researching Akiko Yosano’s family, history and all the things she’ll need once they begin the assimilation process. He thought how lovely it would be to have such a charming girl stand by him. Soon enough, he'll begin the preparations.

  After finishing up his tea and yokan, Mori left the money on the table and walked right out; making sure to leave behind a generous tip. It was only fair, for he was about to take something far more precious…

~ ~ ~ 

Two weeks had passed since Mori's visit. He now possessed the proper permission from the upper brass and the documents he required for this endeavor; there was only one clear goal for today and she was all he could think about.

   Mori was officially on business today… It was a very early morning, still dark out as the sun hadn't fully ascended into the sky. A slender woman with blue eyes and braided blonde hair in an updo soundlessly accompanied him. She was dressed in a costume-like nurse's garb: white blouse, frilly apron and a matching headpiece overlayed a long navy blue dress. The birds had just begun to chirp and the streets were eerily quiet. The yokan shop opens at 6:00 a.m, it was Mori’s plan to arrive at 5:00 during setup, hoping to collect her before customers begin to flitter in. After looking into it, he found out that the Yosano family only has the children help on weekends, Saturday it was. Clad in his crisp soldier uniform he matched the woman’s navy one. A white armband with the red squares symbolizing medicine wrapped around his bicep and his hair was tied back. He practically marched into the store. The bell rang notifying the woman at the front who was bent over fixing something in the glass display. The man’s presence overtook the room. The little sign on the glass window wasn't even flipped to “open” yet. 

  “Oh my apologies, we are technically closed at the moment, feel free to come ba-” She froze, heart standing still, gazing up to see the tall soldier standing over her. Arms folded strictly behind his back and his shoulders squared. Her tone switched up immediately. “Pardon me, how may I help you?”

  “Are you Yosano Satoko, the mother of Yosano Akiko?” He already knew the answer, but for legality’s sake he had to verbally confirm her parental guardians. Satoko’s eyes widened in shock at the mention of her daughter’s name. Her mind pondered the thought of having seen this man before but with so many customers in and out it was hard to keep track.

  “Why yes, I am. Is there something wrong sir?” She put a hand over her mouth. “Is she in trouble? I can assure you she is a very well mannered girl-”

  “Quite the contrary Mrs Yosano.” Mori chuckled. “Your daughter has been personally selected to be drafted into the Japanese military, under a fully sponsored medical scholarship.” 

  “Pardon? This must be a mistake… She's just a child, only eleven years old. She can’t be in the military.” Her voice was quiet and horrified at the thought.

  “Ah, I can understand your confusion, allow me to fully explain-” Mori smoothly voiced with practiced persuasion. 

  “Hold on, I'm sorry, one moment… I-I need to get my husband” She exclaimed fearfully, motioning her hand up and down in order to pause the conversation as she disappeared into the back. Soon enough she reemerged with a man shorter than Mori but taller than her, his dark hair was balding but he compensated for it with a mustache. He was dressed in a white tank top, apron and black trousers; he had the body of a man who lifted many things in strenuous physical labor but also one of a man who never refused any treats fed to him by his wife.

  “What is the meaning of this!” Bellowed the man, his round face flushing a deep angry shade of red. It was clearly visible that he was previously lifting sacks of riceflower, evident by the smears of it on his clothing and his heavy breathing. He radiated anger at being disrupted from his demanding work for a reason as bizarre as this.

  “Please calm down Mr Yosano, my name is Dr. Ougai Mori-”

  “I don’t give a damn what your name is! What business does the military have with our daughter?” He spat maliciously sticking out an accusatory finger at the soldier. Mori’s tone conveyed a sense of calm and collectedness. 

  “As I previously mentioned to your wife, your daughter, Akiko Yoshino has been drafted into the military with a full medical scholarship”.

  “Drafted!? Have you lost your mind? Are you mentally deranged? That girl is a child! What could the military want with a child? How do you even know her?” He growled suspiciously, low and protective. Mori closed his eyes and sighed, mourning how easy this confrontation could’ve gone had her parents had more sense of the bigger picture. 

  “A report on the military’s private domain states that your daughter has a very rare healing ability, one that would be instrumental to the military. There is a new regiment being implemented regarding individuals with special talent like hers. Due to the circumstances involving the current war some priorities have shifted as the front remains dier. She could save so many lives, think of the soldiers that will get to keep fighting, and return to their families.” 

   “That's not her responsibility! She's just a kid, what part of that do you not understand? Children in the military are illegal. You disgust me. What parent would let their little girl in war? I refuse to let my daughter in any battle! Disgraceful, I don’t know what you boots in the army are planning but this… This is sick! You should be picking on young healthy men if you want help with the war effort. Leave my family alone!” His eyes blazed at Mori, eyes flickering to the ghostly woman beside him. His wife grabbed his arm, nodding quickly in agreement. 

  “My apologies, but you misunderstand me. She wouldn't be anywhere near battles, as I said this is an educational opportunity on the basis that she’ll study medicine. Nobody is more passionately protected in the military than the medics who heal. As you know the current state of the country has taken quite the hit. You should know yourself how many businesses and schools have closed from the war. This will promise her an education, her future. Despite how brutish the military may seem. All we are doing is looking for brilliant young minds with potential like hers. I can personally guarantee that she would be studying under me, her commanding officer. I’m the chief medic and I would be overseeing everything.”

  There was a slight shift in Mrs Yosano’s eyes, seeing this more as an academic opportunity for her child’s future. Skeptical still as she wasn’t fully accepting of the idea.

  “You mentioned that she would go on a full scholarship?” Her husband‘s face flashed an expression of betrayal momentarily but she shot him a pointed look. He knew it all too well so he stilled himself wanting to see where his wife was going with this. Mori’s lips curled into a smile. He was starting to get through to them. Good.  

  “Yes, the government will be covering all of her expenses including lodging, uniforms, meals, and anything else she may need. This program is unique and adequately funded.”  

  “Who will take care of her, you don’t seem like the type to have children of your own? She may be responsible but she’s not grown. What about the soldiers who would want to paw at her? Oh heavens so many men, away from their wives… I can’t even imagine it.” She grimaced, turning her head away. Mr Yosano held her shoulder and narrowed his eyes at Mori expecting an acceptable answer.

  “I assure you she will be under my constant supervision, at all times. She won’t leave my side, ever.” He states surly, moving his right hand back to his hip, thumb grazing the leather belt that secures his gun, resting it there. “And this-”  He steps to the side gesturing with his left hand toward the woman standing wordlessly next to him. “Is Elise, she will also be present as her caretaker should she need anything at all.”

  “Hello, it is nice to meet you both.” Elise politely waved in greeting, bowing her head slightly, her voice soft and robotic, she stared at them with those vacant blue eyes… There was something off about her, something inhuman. 

  “All that’s needed of either of you is to sign these documents stating that you have given your permission to allow Miss Akiko to study with us.”

  This was too much too soon. The Yosano’s looked at each other in silent agreement, they knew that there was something wrong with this program. It seemed too good to be true, too sudden, that never seemed to be a good sign. Who in their right minds would be involving children in a war? It’s shameful to think Japan would stoop so low. Of course they would want to help their country but not at the cost of their child, never at that. Yes it would be a shame for her to miss out on this educational opportunity but it makes them incredibly uncomfortable to send Akiko so far away from them, their protection, their family and home. To send her away from everything she has ever known to cold barracks and rigid untrustworthy strangers. It’s too big a risk. 

  Tsuyoshi Yosano didn’t like the idea in the first place. He was raised in the fields as a young boy, education never held the same place to him as hard work. He felt that Akiko doesn’t need to be involved with any of that at such a tender age or any age at all; she is best with her family, where she belongs. Satoko Yosano was unnerved by how quickly this military man came into their store and immediately knew of their daughter by some “report” but by who, how? It was making no sense, and that foreign woman, Elise. How could she let a stranger as empty as her look after her baby, no she decided she wouldn’t have it even if it was all paid for.

   With all their reasoning the most important topic hadn’t been broached, how would Akiko feel about this? It’s all about what’s best for her, what she should do, but no one even told her about the life changing choices being made for her right now. She never mentioned she wanted to become a doctor, who gets to make that decision? If that’s what she wants, then she can work towards it on her own time, not like this. It’s not like the school their children attended got closed. After that brief glance between the parents that felt like eternity, it was Mrs Yosano that spoke up.

  “Apologies, however Akiko won’t be participating. We understand the opportunity you’re offering her, but it is for the best that she stays with her family. This is a choice I would have liked for her to have a say in but as parents we agree on this decision. Thank you for the offer.” Her voice was clear, firm and unwavering; her husband crossed his arms and punctuated her statement with a singular nod. It was a stark contrast from how timid she was when the soldier first arrived; however after hearing his business their decision was final. Topics regarding her children were non negotiable. 

  ~ ~ ~

  “How unfortunate it is that you say that. That’s a decision that you’ll want to rethink, immediately. Believe me, I truly wanted to make this a smooth and beneficial transition for everyone, unfortunately, you lack the gravity of the situation.” He dryly chuckled, slightly shaking his head in predicted disappointment. He started, taking a few steps too close, creeping forward, concern seeped into the faces of Akiko’s parents. 

  “What are you saying?” Mr Yosano threatened with a scowl, narrowing his eyes. His voice resumed its pugnacious nature at the soldier’s incessant pressing. He loathed the smug sneer that edged into his face.

  “Allow me to make this undeniably clear, failure to sign the papers transferring the custody of young Yosano into the military will result in the immediate arrest of both you and your wife. Your unwillingness to comply violates the Japanese Penal Code Article 95B, obstruction of military affairs is considered high treason and depending on the degree will be punished accordingly. The fact that this very operation is so critical to the war, any hindrance such as this will not be taken lightly.” He recites dipping his head to the side in feigned sympathy at their situation. “It appears your hands are tied~” A wicked grin stretched across his face at the sight of Mrs Yosano’s quiet gasp. Her trembling hand cupped the bottom half of her face. Mori was nothing if not prepared. Mr Yosano lunged forward grabbing fistfuls of Mori's uniform in his hands pulling him harshly towards him. Mori let himself get yanked, instead he coldly stared straight into his eyes, dark and unyielding. 

  “How dare you threaten my wife and I! I’ll report you! I’ll make sure they’ll remove all disrespectful bastards like you, now get the hell out of here!” A hot angry breath huffed out from his flared nostrils. 

  “I would advise you to let go, you wouldn't want to add physically assaulting and threatening a soldier to your growing list of charges.” Mori sighed, the tone shifted from smug satisfaction into something more quiet, malicious passive aggression. “Highly unlikely that the upper brass will sympathize with you due to your blatant impudence, especially with an eyewitness available.” Mr Yosano's eyes shot to the blonde woman standing there idly, a simple smile painting her face. “It’s my word against yours, the chief medical officer, or an alleged trader.” Mori stuck out his chin, his sharp unblinking eyes glared into Mr Yosano’s. “Your ignorance is so palpable it’s wrinkling my uniform and your daughter is more important than you’ll ever know. She is the very thing that can change the outcome in this war and the country will not suffer this great a loss due to your hyperactive emotional state. Besides…” His expression shifted to that of a coy predator, one mocking its prey before the carnage. “Haven’t you considered who will look after your children if you're rotting in a cell, or swinging from the gallows? According to my records, both of your parents on both sides of your families are deceased, and there is no suitable kin to take them in. Mrs Yosano has a brother but he's been arrested for two separate drug charges. I highly doubt they’ll be placed with him. What a shame.” Sighing in faux empathy, he ensures to make eye contact with both Yosano parents in his next words. “Charming ten year old Haruki, quite the budding athlete, and he seems to like going to all of his afterschool clubs too. Then there’s eight year old Sayako~, a beautiful girl. Tell me, how are her music lessons going? Picking up a new hobby is so exciting. Ah, and how could we forget rambunctious Soshichi? Six years old and so full of energy my, my, what a free spirit. How would they handle him hm? Such a pity if all these lovely children end up orphaned and alone during a time of war; where government funding to orphanages is tight and everyone is too focused on getting by rather than adopting children. You wouldn’t want them to be split up, separated, to be raised by strangers, or worse abused, would you? The painful irony is, your daughter’s future remains the same regardless of any irrational choices you make. Once you both are reprimanded, I'll simply take darling Akiko into my care, without any hassle or obstacles. It would be the both of you leaving them all homeless.” Mr Yosano’s fists shook as they unclamped their hold on his uniform falling to his sides. For the first time he was genuinely speechless, averting his eyes to the floor. Mori began to tug and fix his clothing, nonchalantly brushing any dust off. 

  “Take me!” Mr Yosano barked. “Leave the children out of it and take me.”

“The military has no use for you Mr Yosano.” Mori replied coldly. “The point I made about your daughter saving lives would be null if you joined in her place. That’s not how this is going to happen.” 

  “How could you do this!?” Mrs Yosano’s voice quivered with rage, eyes digging into him insolently. Her mind was racing; this was all happening too fast, her heart was thundering in her chest, her soul felt blackened and twisted into knots. Sweat beaded along her neck and dripped down. Her clothing felt too tight. Everything felt too tight. Ashamed and enraged she thought to herself, how could she let this happen under her watch? Just who is this poison, this devil that injected himself into their lives, lurking in every dark corner whenever they weren’t looking. Insidiously creeping up on them until it was too late. Feeling absolutely ill over how long this monster spent looking through their records spying on her children. Her children!?

  “How could I do this?” Mori asked in mock incredulousness. Conceited smirk returning to his face at the fact that he won, not that he was worried. “How could your selfishness deprive your country, your military and most importantly your daughter of this opportunity? I’m doing your daughter a favor by giving her an education found nowhere else. All the things about her scholarship still stand. She’ll be a heroine. History will chant her name with victory for the things I know she will be capable of.” He ominously reached into his belt pulling out a pair of silver handcuffs… Opening them slowly, the sinister clicking echos within the room. Seeming to be the only sound audible amongst the running machines. He stalks closer. “Now, what will it be?” Before he can take another step Mrs Yosano scrambles for the papers spread on the glass counter. Frantically signing her signature. This was an impossible decision, but sending Akiko far to school is the lesser of the two evils right? This will be good for her, right? She needed to believe so. 

  Mr Yosano’s face contorted in pain, he was at an absolute loss. Nothing he could do would change the final outcome. He fought back tears, his wonderful, kind, sweet, innocent daughter. Oh God, how would he explain this to her? Her siblings? How could he prepare her for this when he could hardly keep himself together? 

  “Excellent! I’m glad to see you’ve come to your senses.” He takes the documents, neatly folding them before handing them to Elise who seals them in an envelope and places it in her bag. “Now, let’s bring young Akiko out. I'd like to introduce myself before we leave.”

  “You can’t. She’s not here right now. We will send her when she is good and ready.” Mr Yosano interjected, voice gruff and choked. He was trying to delay this as much as possible, to do damage control. He will not lose his daughter today. Mori hummed disappointedly, he was a patient man but his patience was thinning the longer this interaction ran. 

  “And here I thought you’d know better than to lie to a soldier. I know she’s here. Before I respond harshly and walk back in there and bring her out myself. I’m giving you the opportunity to do this quietly, without her siblings involved. Don’t ruin the one chance I’m offering you. I expect one of you to bring her out quickly, try to leave the building with her and the gallows I mentioned will be a reality... I understand you want your daughter to be ready but trust me the brain of a young girl like her doesn’t need preparation time. The sooner she comes with me, the faster I can get her situated and acclimated to her new life. It’s better that way.” His gaze melted into something pensive and distant. “That's the thing I love about children, fragile as they are, they're resilient, moldable. She will recover, she will adapt. They’re more mature than we give them credit for; it's how they survive.” His morals were beyond reason, it was his own line of thinking that permitted this type of detachment when impacting the lives of other people.

   Mrs Yosano pivoted to go but her husband put a hand on her arm, a silent request to let him do it, she hesitated but soon obliged letting him pass. Too many thoughts on how to break the news to his beloved daughter sprinted through his fevered mind. Should he act like it's just military boarding school that will give her an edge in life or should he tell her the truth in the little time he had? Once he left the main room Mrs Yosano spoke up, she was reeling and she found it difficult to voice all her concerns.

  “When will we be able to visit her?”

  “You won’t be.” He stated flatly. There are many top secret government affairs taking place at the base of operations that require special clearance. By law nobody but essential personnel can be allowed inside, no exceptions. She’ll be released when I, her commanding officer, declare she’s completed her service. As it’s written on the second paper in paragraph five that you signed. Speaking of which, you will be sent a copy of the documents confirming the arrangement. The original version will remain with us, should you try to renege any forms of consent you may have previously given.” 

  Mrs Yosano stood in silent terror, just what did she sign? What she would give to wake up from this nightmare. Her breathing became irregular. All sound muffled as it felt like thick fabric was stuffed deep within her ear canals. Black and white worms squirm and wriggle, invading her vision. The pain in her abdomen thrummed, pulsating. She slid to the floor and sat down, feeling faint. Not only was her baby going to be shipped off to the military but they weren’t allowed to visit. She wasn’t allowed to come home unless that vile man said so…

  ~ ~ ~

  Akiko stood in the middle of the storage room suppressing a yawn. Placing her hands on her hips, she huffed out a frustrated breath at the sight of her incompetent siblings. 

  “Come on guys I know it’s early but we have to get started, we’ll be opening soon! Especially you Haruki! You’re the second oldest and the only other person I trust to work over the stove.” She hastily shouted, tying a securing bow around her apron.

  “Relaaax ok? It’s too early for you to be yelling at us.” He drawled, unapologetically letting out his own yawn. “Look at Sayako.” He points to the young girl with twin braids hanging in the air, head tossed over the back of the chair she sat passed out on, clearly finding it too early. “Besides, we hardly get any customers this early in the morning and we have enough stock before we run out. Chill out.” The stock in question was quickly being accessed by Soshichi already chomping down on some matcha yokan, his eager hand plunging into the box grabbing another one. Haruki narrowed his eyes, a sly competitive smile tugged at his lips. Noiselessly, he snuck up behind the thief grabbing his shoulder and spinning him around.

  “You gonna pay for those pal?” He leaned into Soshichi’s face, raising his eyebrow. 

  “I’m actually the owner of this place.” Soshichi says with the coolness of an established entrepreneur ten times his age. 

  “Well then you do really bad business!” Haruki lurches his hand out snatching the uneaten yokan in Soshichi’s hand. Soshichi tried to pull his hand away but his older brother was far faster, pulling it to his lips and taking a big bite out of the sweet treat. “The last thing you need is more sugar. We can hardly keep you from bouncing off the walls already!”

  “Heyyyyy! That was my breakfast, mine, you stole it! Get your own!” His voice was so shrill and whiny it rivaled that of an incredibly feral squirrel. The volume was immense enough that it woke up Sayako, who grumbled at being brought back to the land of consciousness. With small hands rubbing the sleep out of her eyes she looks up to see her brothers snacking on the inventory. Realizing she wants in on the action she pipes up.

  “Oh! Oh! Can I have some too please?” She asks expectantly perched on the chair.

  “Sure, if you can get over here and get some before this pig eats up everything and runs us out of business.”  Her older brother teases while roughly tussling their younger brother’s shaggy bangs. Without having to be told twice Sayako hops off the chair stumbling over to get herself a piece. 

  “I’m not a pig! You’re a pig, so big and fat!” It was a simple joke that Haruki had said and it was meant to be just that, unfortunately Soshichi had taken high offense to his pig comment and went all in, slapping him with sticky, grubby, hands.

  “Hey! Hey! I’m not fat, you're just mad you're still small and weak.” He laughs eating his yokan with one hand while swatting at Soshichi with the other. A small fit of giggles comes from Sayako as she nibbles on her yokan at the sight of her brothers fooling around.

“Weak!? I’ll show you who’s weak!” His face turned angry, red and riled up as he started to kick at Haruki. Akiko rolled her eyes watching this mess unfold, she walked in between, pushing them apart. Even having to dodge left from one of Soshichi’s kicks in the process. 

  “That’s it! What’s wrong with you two!? Honestly I can’t even-”  She paused at the sight of the yokan being thrusted at her face, gazing at her brother in momentary shock.

  “Go on, take it. You look like you need some too.” Haruki smiled, a bit cheeky, but sincere as he knew Akiko wouldn’t take any for herself. She scanned it, gaze softening, even though she knew it was probably a way to get her to shut up she grinned at being offered some. She was willing to guess that behavior like this is what kept Haruki out of trouble at school. Regardless, she decided to accept his peace offering and indulge just this once. It had been so long since she last had some. She took the piece and lifted it to her mouth, taking a small bite. The earthy flavor mixes in with the syrup balancing it out making it perfect, not too sweet. It’s flavor is mild, but it’s a reminder of home. Memories of her mother feeding it to her before she could even walk. She shakes her head smiling. 

  “What would you bunch ever do without me?” For a brief fragment in time everything was serene as the siblings were snickering towards each other, then suddenly, after those words, their father barged in huffing and sweating, face all flushed. Something was wrong. The kids all froze in silent horror at their seemingly aggravated father catching them red handed in eating up the yokan stock. Mr Yosano buffers at the sight of all his children devouring the store's supply, he couldn’t give any less of a damn in the state he was in. There were far more pressing matters at hand.

  “Everyone except Akiko, in the kitchen now!” A pang of guilt bubbled in Haruki’s chest. His older sister was the one trying to keep everyone on schedule, she didn’t deserve this. Pushing past her he spoke up. 

  “Dad, it was my fault! I was the one who gave everybody the yokan! Your problem is with me!” Akiko locked eyes with him nodding her head in thanks, grateful for his willingness to take responsibility, although she felt a little bad because at least she was used to getting yelled at most of the time. Even if he was just a year younger he was still her younger brother. Usually she was the first to hear if there was something she was doing wrong or if there was a problem. Over the years of her young life she developed a high standard for behaving in order to keep the peace. 

  “Haruki out now!” His elevated agitated voice left no room for argument. Haruki slumped his shoulders and walked out, but not before giving his older sister an apologetic look. Soshichi lingered in the back but did not leave, nosy, he wanted to know what was going on. Sayako swung by taking his hand in hers and shuffled out of the room, effectively pulling them out and shutting the door, he complied with no complaints. Nobody wanted a part of what was about to go down. That just left Akiko alone in the room staring wide eyed at her father. Thinking what she could have possibly done to upset him so much. 

~ ~ ~

Her father strode over and without any hesitation he pulled her into a bone crushing hug, pushing her face into the crook of his neck and holding her there. Akiko’s spine became stiff and rigid at the sudden gesture. Of course her dad was affectionate, but only when the occasion called for it. He was a stern and disciplined man, seeing him act with such assertive tenderness caused a sickly feeling of dread to coil in her stomach. Her heartbeat quickened at the feeling of his beating erratically against hers. Body heating up emulating the hot sticky sweat that leaked out of her dad’s pores. His grip on her let up once he heard her grunt, dead giveaway he quite literally squeezed the air out her lungs. Akiko pulled her head back, heart dropping as her weary eyes met his red rimmed ones, practically about to burst with anguish.

  “I love you Akiko. Your mom and I love you so… so much.” He rasped out, murmuring it into her ear. Something was very wrong... That word was hardly ever used, once when Sayako fell severely ill but even then it was so scarce. They obviously loved one another but it was shown through actions, not words. Akiko could count all the times she’s heard it on her fingers, but her mind was puzzled nobody was hurt? Nobody was sick? What could it be? 

  “Dad, what's wrong? Is mom ok? Akiko’s voice radiated concern, mustering up the most logical conclusion she could think of. Her father pulled her in close and in a hushed voice spoke with urgency. 

  “Akiko, listen to me, we don't have much time. There is a soldier in the store. He knows about that ability of yours and is going to take you to go study medicine with him.”

  “What!? I don’t want to-” 

  “Shh, let me finish, I’m not supposed to be telling you this but I have to.” His large calloused hands go up to cup her face rubbing soothing circles on her cheeks. “He came in demanding you. He knows us, he knows our family and we don’t know how. We don’t have a choice, believe me we did everything to get him to leave. I want you here, everyone wants you here but we don’t have a choice. But it's going to be ok. Your mom and I will take everyone to come see you and soon enough you’ll come back to us. You’re going to be ok. You’re smart and responsible. Don’t let anybody put their hands on you, or make you feel less than. Just do your best.” Akiko’s mind reeled helplessly at all of this frantic contradictory information forced on her. Who was this soldier? How does he know her family? Why does she have to go? She could feel her heart as it palpated so harshly against her ribcage she could see her own chest pulsate. 

  “H-How long will the school last?” She asked in a frozen daze, confusion muddling her thoughts. 

  “I don’t know…” They stood there within each other's embrace for a stolen moment; up until Mr Yosano’s face contorted into one of torment and regret. Soundlessly Tsuyoshi Yosano took his daughter’s small soft hand into his rough and ragged one and began to walk out of the room. Into the horrid future.

   Her trepid foot falls were so quiet as she dawdled behind her father’s wide body. What deeply unnerved her was how distraught he looked, how truly afraid he was. She’d never seen him like this, he was a force to be reckoned with. Seeing him so powerless had its effect on her. Her hand began to shake in his large one at what awaited her at the front of the shop. 

  Upon leaving the storage room and turning right, that's when she saw her mother shakily drinking a steaming cup of tea while leaning against the glass display. Turning her head the flowy dress of a pretty blonde woman caught her eye, she looked more decorated than dressed and straight ahead… There he was, the tall, lean, soldier in his dark uniform and two coal colored strands of hair framing his face. His posture was straight and sure without any stiffness, his chin and chest stuck out as his body loomed over the rest of them. He was huge in her eyes, almost double her size. She could barely make it up to his chest and in order to look up at his face she needed to tilt her head back. It was when she got closer she could make out the details whilst peeking out from behind her father’s back. Her breaths were short and distressed, flying in rapidly from her nose. She was frightened. She was uneasy. It was the way his neck stretched to the side in order to get a better view of her. The way she felt his intense gaze consuming her whole, dragging up and down her form, assessing her. That suspicious closed lip smile that radiated pleasure coupled with an all too knowing mirth in his eyes, eyes that promised nothing but fear. 

  “Hello Miss Yosano, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. My name is Dr. Ougai Mori, but you can just call me Dr. Mori~” His voice had a pearly lilt to it, and his temperament contained an air of infatuation that made her shrink from behind. Stepping in closer ever so slightly, he extends a long arm giving her his white gloved hand to shake. However, Akiko was petrified in place, unmoving as her arms lay stiffly at her sides. Upon noticing her rejection of his greeting he couldn’t help but chuckle. Reminiscing on some of his old memories spent as a resident physician; terrified children clinging to their parents trying to avoid their doctors visit all together. He raises both his hands up in a disarming gesture, an effort to ease the tension. “Don’t worry, I’m not here to give you a checkup if that’s what you're worried about.” He says playfully. Akiko couldn’t keep her eyes from rolling at the comment, tightness ever so prominent in her shoulders. Noting the eye roll, he was pleased to see that even with all that fear she still exudes so much attitude. “I do believe some congratulations are in order, the people of the Japanese military have selected you to be drafted on the basis that you'll come and study medicine with me, practicing your skills, and your ability.” A brief pause overtook the room.

  “What if… What if I don't want to go?” Her quiet voice filled the silence slowly but surely finding the words to speak up to that man. 

  “Of course you will. You were personally selected for your talents and willingness to help others. Besides young lady, when the country calls you to action, you must rise to the occasion. You're no stranger to the fact that there's a war going on. We need your help. Rest assured you won't be in the middle of any fights. You’ll be learning the trade of healing. Something that’s natural for you. I must say I'm a little envious, something that took me a decade to learn you can do in seconds. What an incredible gift. Once we leave…” He pauses to check his watch to ensure they're on schedule. “I'll explain everything in greater detail.”

  “When do I get to go home?” Her question is quiet but firm. 

  “Go home hm?” He mused lightheartedly. “We haven't even gotten there and you're already thinking about coming back? There is so much to be done, but to answer your question you can return once I, your superior officer, officially declare that you have completed your service.” There was an unspoken way in the possessiveness of his eyes and the way they lingered on her that told everyone he had no intentions of letting her go. “Once we're alone on the plane later, I can tell you the specifics of how your routine and objectives will be laid out. I can’t do so now due to the confidentiality of this operation.”

  “Wait, we're leaving today!?” She steps forward so she is beside her father, his firm hold still protectively wrapped around hand. Mori nodded with absoluteness. It should’ve been obvious to her but with how hasteful and frantic her father was it was difficult to understand. All of this was difficult to understand. God she felt so stupid. In her puzzled state she thought perhaps he just wanted to meet before the day she actually had to go, if only. She stole a glance at her parents to see their expressions, horrified to find the pure fear in them as they agreed. If it was just military schooling why do they look so distraught? Why does this soldier know about her ability when her father always told her to keep it a secret? She never used it in public. Her mind was a hurricane, chaotic and in disorder. There were too many things that didn’t line up, the way her siblings were ushered away, the soldier’s seemingly docile disposition, her parents distress, the vague implications of what she’ll be doing once she’s there, and the urgency of it all. Her brain was perceiving this array of unsettling details but what she lacked at her tender age was the cognitive ability to process all of it. Her eyes sharpened, narrowing at the force above them, heart thumping angrily. They weren’t telling her something... That conclusion made her fists shake with frustration. Especially because this was her life they were altering. She would be the one going all the way to the military leaving everything she ever knew and loved behind.   

“I can see that you feel a little apprehensive, but if you could see it as-”

  “No! No, I don’t want to go with you!” Her voice started to raise in volume. She was certainly nervous but with her life being tampered with she couldn’t bring herself to be mindful and polight. “There’s something that nobody is telling me and that’s not fair. You don’t get to just walk in here and take me away! You don’t get to pull me away from my life! It’s mine and I don’t care about the military or their rules! I’m not going, plain and simple. I have better things to be doing than to be going with a liar like you!” Akiko huffed out exasperated, placing her free hand on her hip and pointing her nose in the air. She had no proof of his lie but there was something in the manner of his tone that conveyed something disingenuous. She was frustrated and over it, if her parents weren’t going to say something to this pathetic soldier she would. She couldn't fathom why this guy had her father all scared, she’s seen him chase away far scarier men. She could see that he was tall but the look of him didn’t appear to be too threatening, just weird and creepy. What was that thing her dad just told her to do, right not let anyone treat her lowly; with the way this obnoxious soldier talked down to her she might as well practice those skills now. 

  Simultaneously, both her parents both gasped in unison. Mr Yosano felt a twinge of pride at his daughter’s ability to advocate for herself but quickly went back to concern as he didn’t want the situation to escalate. Maybe he had to hold his tongue but it was comforting to hear his girl share the same sentiment. Mrs Yosano immediately ran to Akiko’s side, mouth agape, quickly clinging to her right shoulder for both protection and support. She was beyond terrified because she’d seen what this awful man was capable of.

  “I apologize on her behalf! She doesn’t quite understand what is happening and she’s very afraid. Normally, she would never act like this.” She stammers out panic stricken. Akiko angrily looks at her mom not appreciating the way she spoke for her but decides it's better not to say anything. 

  “Such fierce resolve~” Mori quietly let out an almost inaudible hum of delight placing his knuckles on his cheek. Her mother’s heart dropped barely hearing it herself. Did this grown man just swoon at her eleven year old daughter? That couldn’t be what she just heard. The Gods were going to have to give her strength to get through this. Every primal instinct in her body was telling her to rip him to pieces. So concerned about how the other men would react to a young girl in the barracks she hadn’t had the chance to vet out the man who would be taking her child away. Akiko looked over confoundedly, she was repulsed by the gratified expression on his face. 

  She was even more exquisite up close. How long had he waited for this moment? He was simply elated, even with his soldierly restraint he found it difficult to suppress his urge to beam. She clearly inherited that temper from her father, such a waste on a man like him but it suited young Akiko just fine. Mori was completely captivated by her vibrant violet eyes transfixed on scowling at him, all this attention, just on him. He could get used to that. She had her fire, fire in which he would take great pleasure in subduing and controlling. In multiple different facets, she was the perfect addition. He knew they would do much together. 

  “Unfortunately dear girl, the decision has already been made. You will be coming with me today. Your parents have already signed off on your departure.” He wished he had a photo of her face, so shocked and flushed, poor thing, can’t even realize the power she holds. Akiko threw her head in both directions, double taking what she had just heard the soldier correctly. She needed to see it in the eyes of her parents to confirm if this was correct.

  “You signed me away! H-How could you!? You were the ones who said you didn’t want me to go!” Her voice cracked in hurt and betrayal, she was crumbling down. Hot devastated tears sprang from her eyes at the sight of her parents. All that fuss about wanting to keep her here and they willingly signed her away! Her heartbreak was so tangible it looked like she was suffering an actual heart condition with the way she gripped her chest. She despised crying and despite her best efforts to stifle it, her wails only grew louder as she processed the ramifications of this. “Why? Was I not good enough? Did I not do a good job, is that why you want me gone?” After everything that she did, why wasn’t she enough? The reality was that she was too great, too young. 

  If Akiko Yosano was crumbling, then her parents were decimated. 

  “Akiko it’s not like that at all! I promise you we did not have the choice you think we did! You’re an excellent daughter and we are proud to be your parents!” Her father could barely get his words out at the sight of his daughter reduced to this. His face contorted in agony knowing the reason as to why he couldn’t answer. Mr Yosano contained nothing but raw hatred for that wretched excuse of a soldier. Vilifying them like this in front of their own daughter, as if they’re the evil ones. Normally any child would feel a swell of pride at the words her father just spoke, especially coming from a man like him, but with the circumstance in which they were delivered Akiko couldn’t consider them as real. He tugged her closer by the hand, trying to wrap her in a hug, not letting go. She resisted though, looking up at him with tear heavy lashes. 

  “If there was a choice then why do you want me gone?” All her mother could do was quietly match her daughter’s tears. Hesitantly reaching out a hand to stroke her back. Her chest felt like it was being impaled by blazing hot blades. Her ribs gave off the sensation of stabbing and sharp excruciating agony as they splintered in her chest piercing her heart and inner organs alike. Akiko wanted answers, deserved answers but how could she tell her? How as a mother could she tell her child that she failed to honor her most basic job to protect and care for her? To tell her that she’s being sent away in order to save her siblings? That she was essentially an inevitable lost cause regardless. Satoko Yosano couldn’t care less about dying herself as long as it meant her children were well. Should an all mighty higher being come down and demand her life in exchange for her child’s she’d do it instantly but there were more babies of hers at stake this time. Above all else, how could she ever break the news that despite what they decided they could not save their darling Akiko from this fate, from that sick, sick man.

  Mori found that this would be the proper moment to intervene; his previous comment having done its desired effect. It will be easier to adjust her to the military’s routine with the rift in trust between her and her parents. Despite their desperate pleas with their daughter, their lack of an explanation will cause a seed of doubt to grow. Taking a single step forward he bends down at the hip, not to meet her at eye level, but just so he's looming over them.

  “Don't be that way, it’s quite the opposite. Your parents are doing you a great service by sending you to study with me. While your classmates will be learning the base curriculum, you’ll be participating in the saving of lives. It’s an honor to become a doctor, for both your parents and for yourself.” His expression suddenly became more serious and commanding. “You say you don’t care about the military so would you rather have soldiers die? Never to return to their families? Is that what you want?” There was a cold, disorienting silence with such a resounding effect, everyone could hear their own hearts pounding in their ears. Her face was swollen and irritable, after what just transpired between her parents and the furious rubbing she had just done to rid herself of those troublesome tears; she was left in a volatile state emotionally. All Akiko could do was swallow the thick saliva that lumped in her throat. It's not that she wanted people to die, and she definitely wanted to do right by her country but from the way his voice held a level of expectation it felt illegal to have wants of her own. She was genuinely tired of this man and his seemingly never-ending ability to spew out jargon and philosophies.

  “Don’t-” Her father started but before he could even articulate the rest of his sentence Mori held up a hand to silence him. His detached eyes continued staring into hers without breaking contact. 

  “Miss Yosano, when your commanding officer gives you a task, you complete it. When an order is prompted to you, you obey it and when a question is asked of you, answer it. Now, I will ask you again, do you want to be responsible for the death of soldiers in our nation? Do you care so little for this country that you’re ok with being the reason their blood stains your hands? Is that what you want?” Though he wasn’t yelling, the cadence in his voice was urgent. It came out harsher than he intended but it was a necessary evil. He hoped he could ease up a bit once she understood her place in things. It would be no fun otherwise.

  There were tremors of rage all over her body. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. How could he get her so wrong? Clearly he had no idea who she was as a person. She lived for helping people, but how else was she supposed to express her concerns without sounding like some ungrateful brat? Heaven forbid she wasn’t ready to drop everything and join a war at the ripe age of eleven. She’ll set him straight. Pushing past her crowding parents she strode right up to him bridging the gap. She jerked her head upwards to glare at him indignantly, wanting to face him head on.

  “Of course not! I love my country, it’s my home! I wouldn't mind helping the soldiers but I’m sick of you making it sound like I'm a bad person! I’m not!” Slamming a hand over her heart as frustrated tears pricked her eyes. “I’m not a traitor, I didn’t choose this. How was I supposed to see this coming? I never want anyone to die. If I have to help soldiers stay alive I-I can do that.” Upon the realization of it a wave of deflation and dread swam in her insides. There is no good excuse she could possibly have to justify apathy to the fighting soldiers in her country. No matter what she could try, nothing seemed like it would work. Her own parents even signed her away for goodness sake. “If my ability can be used to save them… then I guess it's alright.” She muttered out defeated. 

  “Excellent~ I'm glad we're in agreement.” Without faltering he reached out and encapsulated her wrist in his hand, the one that connected her hand to her heart. “We have a fight to catch dear, I think it's best to get going, don't you hm?” His repugnant smile juxtaposed the vice-like grip he had on her small wrist.

  Shoving past her worried parents to stand right before him might have been one of the worst decisions she ever made. 

  ~ ~ ~ 

  Akiko felt a dense ball hit the pit of her stomach, curdling all its contents inside. She went wide-eyed in shock. She should have been more careful, she should have stayed where it was safe. So caught up in proving him wrong she failed to realize it was all a ploy to get her to charge at him. She fell for it and strode right into his trap. 

  “Huh!? Wait, we can’t go yet I’m not ready!” She stammered out in disarray. 

  “Nonsense, you have everything you’ll need already at the base. The only thing that’s missing is you.” Mori said, chuckling to himself a little. She began to tug at his grip insisting he let go. 

  “No that’s not what I mean! Hold on, I didn’t get to say goodbye to my siblings! They don’t know! I can’t just leave them here without saying goodbye!” The tears that had dotted her eyes broke free like a flood breaking through a dam. 

  Everything was racing, it was hard to breathe despite the amount of air she was heaving in rapidly, she could feel her heart rate spike at the predicament she found herself in. Her parents' involvement in this was one thing but this man not letting her see her siblings again, she couldn't tolerate it. Yes they bickered and fought but in the end of the day they were her best friends, her family. They took turns bothering and taking care of one another. They celebrated each other's happiness and felt each other’s pain. How could she bear giving them this kind of pain when she wasn’t ready for it herself? In this life it was just them. They didn’t have the blessing of a large extended family, so they had to stick together, to build their own village, it would be just them when their parents inevitably pass. She was the eldest daughter after all. Who would look after them when their parents were too busy running the store? Who will keep everyone together when they’re gone? Then a devastating thought rattled into her head: they won’t have her ability… What if something happened and she wasn’t there? Earlier this month Soshichi had an accident, he was such an energetically troublesome little boy... She would never forgive herself if something happened and she wasn’t there. Her head began to pound from all these nightmares plaguing her thoughts.  

  “Surely she could go in for a short goodbye, even if it’s quick?” Her mother implored in an attempt to find some common ground as her and her husband approached their daughter. Mori shot them a warning glare, his eyes telling them not to come forward. Lest they want the repercussions that follow those actions. He breathed out a tired sigh and shook his head. He was disappointed, hoping the girl would forget about them while he swept her away from the chaos he created. 

  “You'll write to them.” It was a blatant lie as his true intention is to keep her so incredibly busy with the war and her ability that gradually she’ll lose the will to keep writing to them. Why would she want to trouble her family with such violence and agony? It would be for the best to leave her family out of it; they live in a different world than she ever will “Besides, you wouldn't want to stress them out with this would you? Your siblings are rather young and I don't think they'd understand the responsibilities you have to look after. There's no need to feel this way, you're acting like you’ve been selected to become a hitobashira. What you have been chosen for is an enormous privilege, all great people make sacrifices.” 

  “Well I’m not that great! I don’t care how smart you think you are but you need to get that out of your fat head!” She shrieked at her limit, sobs racked her small frame as she shook with affliction. She was incredibly overwhelmed and far too exhausted: it was 5:47 am after all. Her head was throbbing and her throat burned from dehydration. 

  She was writhing in his hold, twisting and squirming in an effort to free herself. Deep down subconsciously she knew that this wasn't going to achieve anything but at the same time what else could she do to show how upset she was. In a situation where her choice was never an option this was the only thing she could do. As much as she felt that this was such an embarrassing display she couldn’t help or control anymore. Although she loathed to admit he had a point. She wouldn’t want to trouble them with this. Was it that selfish of her to need them too, to rely on them for some support in the same way she would give them reassurance and comfort? The very thought of never seeing them again is what kept reducing her to this state, that is what lit the fire in her soul to keep resisting. 

  “Don't be afraid.” The first thing Akiko felt was a new pair of hands holding on to her left arm. When she turned her head she found that blonde woman, Elise, at her side. She winced at Elise's smile, so sweetly artificial it was sickening. She tried to tug away but with no success, grunting and breathing in sharply as she sniffled. 

  “Miss Yosano.” His voice was devoid of all emotion, serious and uncaring. The moment her eyes met his, she cowered at the alarming feeling that engulfed her. Something far inside told her to stop struggling before things got any worse. Mori doesn't mind a little bit of a challenge but this was becoming excessive. 

  The tears had traveled their way into the crevice of her nose, down the corner of her mouth, and off her reddened irritated face. With his face now softening, he released her wrist and unfastened the button to his left breast pocket, pulling out a white handkerchief. Wordlessly he began to languidly wipe down the planes of her supple face. The swift change in his demeanor gave her whiplash. She could not stop herself from reflexively recoiling at his touch, vapidly turning her face away in one last rejection but to no avail. It didn’t deter him in the slightest; he was diligent and persistent in cleaning up the tears that streaked around her deep frown, making sure to pinch her nose at the end to capture any wandering snot that may have dripped out. 

  “Come now, don't ruin your face. I hate seeing cute little girls like you cry~ Let's focus on what’s ahead.” Mori folded the cloth before pocketing it, putting his hand on the small of her back and Elise held Akiko’s hand. Both nudging her out the front door. She only had seconds left as she began to unwillingly walk out. She whipped her head over her shoulder and looked back at her weeping parents. 

  “Mom, Dad… I’m sorry for yelling, I love you both so much, and please! Please tell Haruki, Sayako and Soshichi that I love them too and that I’m sorry I couldn’t tell them that myself.” She could barely choke out the words but she’d never forgive herself if she left without saying anything even if that’s not everything she wanted to say. There were too many things to say, but it was all she could come up with. 

  “We can only love you more Akiko!” Her mother cried. “I promise to tell them your message!” Satoko Yosano reached out her hand gripping at the air, already mourning the fact that she'll never get to hug her eldest, touch her first baby ever again. 

  “J-Just promise to come back to us Akiko.” Her father coughed in a poor attempt to hide the emotions in his voice. All the stress could not be good for his health.

  “I promise.” Her voice lost its volume as they stepped out of the threshold of the family run yokan shop. That cheery bell signifying their devastating exit. 

  There is a thick and painful silence as the ringing of the bell ceases.

  …

  Nothing could have stopped Satoko Yosano’s cries. She’s in her husband’s embrace, arms intertwined amongst one another. She buried her face in his shoulder using him as a way to support herself upright. 

   “What kind of parents are we? We don’t deserve forgiveness!” She gasped out between sobs. He couldn’t even bring himself to answer, too restrained by his own self hatred at being incapable at protecting his child. All he could was hold his wife, the feeling being the only thing grounding him. How would they cope with this irreparable loss? Their grief was a gaping wound that would only grow, festering with rot.  

  Haruki had his arms wrapped around Sayako and Soshichi. All of them were huddled in the back of the kitchen terrified. There was an immense amount of muffled yells and cries coming from the central part of the store. As well as a voice they couldn’t recognize. Haruki couldn’t even put together a picture of what was going on out there. Completely unaware that the family he loved so much was about to break beyond repair. 

  Unbeknownst to the Yosano siblings, their older sister was gone forever…

  ~ The child has inevitably captured the lovely butterfly, its wings desperately beating down on the glass enclosure of the jar. He made plans to pin down its radiant wings and mount it for display. His prize, his possession. For it was only fair, he went through all the trouble and effort of catching it himself. That poor creature, there will be no mercy. Its fate eternally sealed by the larger hands that plucked it out of its life and into the jar.~

If you made it this far I love you I love you I love you😘💖!!! Ngl I made this an extra chapter because I don’t like the look when the notes section is too long at the bottom. Anyway you’re here you made it!! Yosano nation how we feeling Yosano nation? Meet the reason for why studying for my biology final was so excruciating. This fic was banging its fists manically in my fragile brain. Brace yourself I’m a big yapper and I’m silly. 

AUGH this concept breaks my heart and I crave to know every detail about what Yosano went through during her time in the military. If you guys want more stuff like that let me know. Also if you guys have other fics like this please drop the link. I hope Mori suffers for all of eternity <3 Although I will say writing smart people is both really fun and also the very worst. It forces you to think like them and part of the reason this took forever is because I procrastinated the Mori character study for so long. Owie I think all the research I had to do for this fic formed a new wrinkle in my brain!!! Child psychology, Japanese penal codes and yokan recipes for example😩

Guys I told my friends this was going to be a short little 2k-3k max one shot and uhh. That did not happen… I also told them to give me a week deadline to finish it, that was on June 7th🤡🤡🤡 In my defense it spiraled out of control it became all about what the fic wanted not what I wanted!!! AND to top it all off I had a very typical Ao3 writer excuse for not finishing on time so allow me to formally apologize below. 

To my precious darling readers,

Please accept my cordial and humble apologies for the tardiness of this Akiko Yosano backstory fan fiction belonging to the Bungo Stray Dogs Fandom. As I was laboring over the creation of this written work I had failed to recognize that the day of my tooth implantation had arrived. I found myself numb to the heavens as the Periodontist drilled a screw into my jawbone and a nurse tenderly held my face to keep my head from reverberating about. Due to this long awaited procedure I was rather mentally delayed for the first few days. I assure you such an inconvenience will not occur again unless all my teeth begin to fight back and disown me. I once again apologize for any inconvenience or distress this may have caused. 

Love your #1 Yosano stan, Angel

Hehehe since I was specifically told to rest for two weeks straight it gave me an ample amount of writing time. It’s never not gonna be funny to me that I was on painkillers while writing the ending of this fic, meaning I was physically incapable of feeling pain while I put you all through that.🤭 I’m not a sadist buuuut I hope you felt things. Like pain for example 😃

And for the far future since school is starting again😬 I’m looking for hot beta readers in my area (aka this side of the internet). However I have no clue how to swing that so I’m putting this here dm me if you’re interested. I’m looking for someone who has the time, better grammar than me(at least decent and can spot my fumbles), and can handle heavy angst should I feel like taking out my problems on fictional people again.😉👍Also I can’t pay you babes but that’s ok we do it for the love of the craft. 

I genuinely want to publish a novel one day and fanfic really is the best practice. It’s not my first time writing fanfics but it is my first time posting so if you wanna give me constructive criticism or if I’m missing a tag please let me know. Just be nice to me😭 I really wanna hear what you guys have to say. Especially about my favorite girl Yosano who did nothing wrong ever actually!!! Comment don’t be shy I’m very soft and squishy I promise. Even if it’s just a keyboard smash a little goes a long way:) have an immaculate day, night, limbo or ascension until the next time I can’t hold my rot in🥹

[nekole-doodles]

*slams open door* @mcytblraufest

IT'S FINALLY POSTING WEEK FOR THE MCYTBLR AU FEST!!! YOU GUYS HAVE NO IDEA NOW LONG I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT! Anyway, here's the art I submitted:

So, this is from my Rebirth DSMP AU based on the webtoon Rebirth! I haven't talked about it on here but it's definitely one of my favorite AUs :D For those who have read Rebirth, Wilbur takes Noah's place and Tommy takes Neo's place(and yes, they are brothers in this AU).

Also, it was an absolute pleasure to work with lemon_doodles(I don't know their Tumblr :']) and @deathshadowrules!!

Here's the link to deathshadowrules's fic:

And if lemon_doodles wants me to add the link to their fic, I'll reblog this with the link :>

Here's some info on this AU for a bit more context(this is pretty long btw):

(Also, quick note: The fanfics have a different interpretations of this AU and the information the art provided so the details might not line up)

Again, this is an AU heavily based on the webtoon Rebirth, I recommend it, it's really interesting :)

There are themes of time travel/time loops, zombies/zombie apocalypse, superpowers, and this is also a modern AU.

The world ended on November 16th(date idea credits to deathshadowrules) when during a solar eclipse, everyone on Earth passed out for an unexplainable reason and when they woke up the next day, half of those people became zombies, later referred to as the Undead due to them having abilities that exceed the zombies typically depicted in media. This day became known as Armageddon. Along with the rise of the Undead, some of the remaining humans gained abilities/superpowers.

Summary: Wilbur had experienced this apocalyptic world and survived for 6 years. In the later part of those 6 years, he ended up letting Tommy, his brother who he disregarded for years before Armageddon, get captured(I think by the military) for experimentation due to his unique abilities and body. (I'm trying not to spoil too much of Rebirth so some of this is vague TvT) He regretted this decision greatly because he found that he still cared a lot about Tommy, despite their relationship not being great over the years, so he decided to save Tommy from the experimentation. In doing so, he died right after he freed Tommy from the test tube he was being kept in, wishing he had one more chance to fix his mistakes, mainly to make sure that Tommy will remain safe and to (hopefully) mend their long-broken relationship. Then, Wilbur wakes up on November 15th, the day before Armageddon began, which was 6 years ago. He had traveled back in time after he died. He realized that this was his chance to save Tommy. Little did Wilbur know that Tommy has been in a sort of timeloop where once he dies in one timeline, he goes back in time near the start of Armageddon and starts another timeline.

Extra Details Time!

When Wilbur got sent back in time after his death, he got a white streak in his hair with a few gold strands(in the art, it literally just looks blonde because I messed up and couldn't fix it, I tried ahdkshj) Also, I was originally going to make one of Wilbur's eyes gold but I totally forgot while coloring and couldn't go back to fix it. Btw, the whole thing with the gold hair strands, butterflies, text, and eye makes more sense if you read Rebirth but I don't know how to explain it.

Wilbur and Tommy are not biologically related to Phil and Techno but Wilbur is still very close with them. He's known Phil and Techno since he was young and treated them more like family than his actual family. Tommy never really interacted much with Phil and Techno and honestly kind of avoided them. He didn't really know why he avoided those two, maybe because he was salty that Wilbur was always more friendly to them than to him. But otherwise, Tommy feels pretty neutral towards them and gains more respect for them throughout Armageddon due to how stable their living situation is for the end of the world(they've got a good base and everything. Their roles are based on the Blanche family)

Wilbur's wife is Sally, but unfortunately, she's a pretty self-centered person and attempts to hide this but her actions really expresses this fact. She takes the place of Parish, for those who read the webtoon, and I deeply apologize.

Fundy is Wilbur and Sally's son. He doesn't really like Tommy but they start being a bit less aggressive towards each other as the story progresses. He takes Abel's place.

Wilbur's ability is advanced fire manipulation instead of blood manipulation like Noah from Rebirth. Since Noah's blood manipulation has an unbelievable amount of possibilities, I kind of had to twist the possibilities of fire manipulation so that Wilbur's abilities are still able to fill the role they need to. If you want to get a good idea of a way Wilbur uses his fire manipulation, think like- Colonel Mustang's flame alchemy from Fullmetal Alchemist but instead of using alchemy, Wilbur causes his fire to burst.

Schlatt takes Ian's role and is just as much of a prick but him and Wilbur aren't brothers. Schlatt is a businessman that comes from a family that is close with Wilbur's, so they've known each other since they were kids(they were introduced to each other at a young age in the hopes they would be friendly enough to be able to work closely with each other). They were sort of friends before Schlatt became a prick but Wilbur still had to deal with him because he is a genuinely good businessman for the company(btw, I should probably mention that Wilbur owns a pretty big business, for those who don't have that context from Rebirth. Idk if the business will be the same or if I'll change it to fit Wilbur better)

Tubbo is Schlatt's son(from a previous marriage) but Schlatt is a pretty distant father because he doesn't really care. Tubbo takes Iva's place but has a different personality because he's older than Iva, and therefore, less innocent.

Quackity is married to Schlatt but he isn't Schlatt's first partner. A few months into the marriage, Quackity began regretting the marriage but felt like he couldn't end it. He takes Lena's place but him and Tubbo act more like close friends. They're both happy with their friendship and don't feel the need to push it to "family". Quackity still takes care of Tubbo though since Schlatt definitely isn't :/

Niki takes Li's place but is a bit less emotionless/cold. Her ability is being able to control water and its temperature(basically waterbending). Also, since people usually ship Noah and Li, I would just like to specify that Niki and Wilbur are friends and only friends.

Some ages(these are still a work in progress though): Wilbur- 26/28, Tommy- 14, Fundy- ~8-10, Tubbo- 14, Niki- 21/22

I think that's enough lore dumping for today :| This AU is still a big work in progress but I'm having so much fun with it!

[digi-lov]

Are there any interesting references I’m missing in any of the Lilithmon cards maybe?

Hey! I've been thinking a lot about that too. Lilithmon doesn't have many cards, though. There's BT3-091 which depicts her on a throne. Usually with such explicit backgrounds, it feels like it would be a reference to something, but I haven't been able to find anything yet. There is a figure of Lilithmon on a throne (don't know if it's oficially liscensed though), but that is based on the card, not the other way around. There is also the Alt Art by Kenji Watanabe with skulls and roses as decorations. I don't think there's anything beyond the allusion to beauty and death in that. [also there's a filling mistake at her thumb and it's driving me nuts]

Lilithmon BT3-091 by Tonamikanji and Alternative Art by Kenji Watanabe from BT-03 Booster Union Impact

Then there is the BT11-087 card. This set has many Xros Wars Hunters cards, and as such Lilithmon has the Bagra Army trait. The glowing hand is probably supposed to be her move Nazar Nail. Otherwise I couldn't find anything. Also with just being a rare, there has been no Alt Art for this card yet.

Lilithmon BT11-087 by Shin Sasaki from BT-11 Booster Dimensional Phase

And recently in Japan we got EX6-057. While there isn't anything specific tying this artwork to the games or anime, as far as I can tell, there are many butterflies featured on this card along with flower petals.

Lilithmon EX6-057 by poroze from EX-06 Theme Booster Infernal Ascension

Now butterflies have multiple symbolic connotations. In Japan, butterflies are often associated with death, and or souls from the dead. Some theorize this originates from people in ancient times seeing butterflies gather around dead bodies (to sap), while other assume it's due to the metamorphosis akin to to the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Butterflies are also used as a symbol of beauty and womanhood, in this case the metamorphosis is compared to a girl growing into a woman. They're often used as decorations for women's kimono or yukata. This combination of death and womanhood obviously works well for Lilithmon. Her X Antibody form fully embraces this as well.

If you were to look for it, you will be able to find many similar usages of the butterfly in modern media, for example with Bayonetta and her Madama Butterfly.

The EX6-057 card also received an Alt Art as a part of the Seven Great Demon Lords matching art, which I plan on delving into in its own post.

[definegodliness]

While I was working up the courage

I dreamt about Ramona, Surprisingly — I hadn't thought about Ramona For, say, twenty years.

I guess that happens As time progresses; you get Haphazardly confronted with Your own, or forlorn empathic Unresolved sadness.

I thought about Ramona today, reminiscing; Memories flowed in, till painting A long ago's Picture perfect scene.

2nd grade highschool Ended, And instead of a school dance We had our very first (supervised) House party.

I remember the overall Pubescent turmoil and confusion, And the slow dancing Looming over the party Like the Sword of Damocles, at least, to me.

I don't know if, to others, this was a big deal; Romanticism is a weird Vulnerability When you're a teen, But I think Ramona agreed; We were the only ones Not dressed Casually.

I can still invoke The pressure amounting; Desires I did not yet fully understand, Piling as longings For heart-stirred moments That had yet to prove less self-evident Than I, as a naive child, had imagined.

It came to a point where I wasn't even sure Whether I actually wanted To dance anymore,

Until Ramona Walked through The door.

She lit up the room Wearing a dress of baby blue That I had only seen on Disney princesses And depicted in picture books That had nourished my nature, As an inborn Hopeless romantic.

This was it.

I remember, this, as the first time I saw a girl as Radiantly beautiful.

Ramona Had made an effort To look perfect, and, to me, she did; I was enchanted, Like I had wanted to be Since Consciousness.

I should've walked up to her, There and then, But I had to work up the courage; Rehearse the phrase,

'Do you want to dance?'

In my head, Over and over and over again.

Which is when I heard the whispers; Gossiping lips uttering ugly phrases About an angel.

Ramona was a slut For wearing makeup.

Ramona was a whore For wearing white pantyhose And open shoes,

Or, by now, For Whatever the prying eyes of the mob Would choose.

I should've walked up to her there and then; I should have just asked Ramona To dance.

But I was too Chicken-shit to go against the grain, And by my cowardice I let an angel Turn

Pariah.

It has taken A dream, and, say, twenty years For me to realize the heartbreaking tragedy That was that evening.

Unresolved sadness, Maybe the universe's itself, for having lost Another butterfly, or some bird of paradise, Designed to make this crooked ugly world A bit more endearing.

It all washes over me, now, in Forlorn empathy.

All she wanted was to look pretty On what could be a nice evening With the premise of all of us slow dancing For the first time, ever.

She looked the part The way a romantic heart would envision Ball room dancing.

It should have been Magic, but it wasn't Magic, If anything,

It was magic's death.

Ramona never wore colour again, She faded black; Sat somewhere at the back of class In the silence of Wanting to disappear.

She had heard Everything Said about her, Cruelly.

And she did not return to school next year.

There's no resolving this age-old sadness, But, perhaps, it found its way back to me For the sole reason that it, still, just wants Someone else To feel, And see, And acknowledge

What magic, that evening, Was murdered.

It exists, solely to instill this wish of mine To go back in time, As there are words The universe needs Written,

So that its truth may finally Also exist,

For what it's worth, sent to the aether:

"Ramona, you are radiantly beautiful; Enchanting... dreamy...

Do you want to Dance?"

--- 4-7-2023, M.A. Tempels ©

[imaginespazzi]

GH Chapter 6 babyyyyy. Oooh girl, I needed this fluff! Feeling a little down in the dumps as our embryo transfer failed, and honestly this perked me up! No worries though I am remaining positive as we have a few more frozen embryos so we shall try again :) But truly reading this chapter yesterday gave me such a boost! Thank you :) REACTIONS - My only negative feedback/correction is that it is indeed, as easy for a literal child to buy alcohol in eastern Europe as it is to buy coke 😂😂😂 wild place. - The whole sequence of them in the gazebo, P bringing up the date, the angst, anticipation, butterflies brought me back to being 15. Which is a huge feat because girl, it was a while ago lol - "She does none of the above. Instead Azzi kisses Paige back." Oh thank the lord above Azzi Fudd LET YOUR LOINS LEAD YOU and chill a bit - Their hearts talking to each other. What a beautiful depiction of what it would feel like to be kissing your person again after all this time. Although I am firmly in the camp of them having had some sort of physical/sexual interaction either during Ps marriage or after her divorce teehee - “I- I broke your heart. I broke us. How could you possibly want that again. How could you possibly want me again?” AZZI does she have to spell it out in sky writing? She loves you and will always love you and will always want you. Forever. One step forward two steps back with this one eh - "Take it slow and see where it goes and maybe we’ll- maybe we’ll be even better this time.” See Paige is wise. Our dumb blonde is not so dumb when it comes to MATTERS OF THE HEART. And Vagina. - THE RULES. You been spending too much time w/ @pb524830 haha. Hopefully you don't EDGE US TO DEATH like a certain someone did for the first part of PnP. - I wanna know did they like sit down and have a formal conversation about what the rules are? Also what is within the kissing boundary lol Tongue? Little boob squeeze? Giving themselves blue-clits over here. Better buy batteries for their vibrators at Costco prob going through a couple double-As every 3 days. - But in all honestly the thought of them making out on Azzis couch after Stephie is in bed, then having to separate and have Paige go back to her house at the end of the night is very high school and precious and cute. - Ok girl you know the car seat thing was the highlight for me. You put a big smile on my face by including that I LOVED IT. And its pu-ple!!!! cute cute cute cute - “You look really happy today sweetheart,” Tim says softly. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 - Dying at the contrast of Stephie thinking the sun shines out of P's ass and she is the moral and Christ-like center of the universe while Jon and Jose are like um no this bitch is a menace you don't even know - Awwww are the 3 of them gonna sleep in a queen sized bed w/ Stephie in the middle. I can't. Lil family - “you won’t- you won’t run away again tomorrow morning will you?” make me cry again why don't you - I think hearing EVERYONE around her calling P 'Paige' has gotta switch up Stephies name for her at some point. Maybe hearing Drew call her Paigey will influence her? Overall this was such delicious fluff and perfect whisps of angst. Made my day- my week! Thank you for sharing your talent with us. Am I terrified for whats to come? YUP! But hopefully you can preserve our hearts a little bit by keeping up some tender fluff throughout 😭 <3 🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼🤱🏼

Aww bby sending you so much virtual love and hugs. I'm glad this chapter cheered you up and I'm manifesting so hard for it to work next time <3

LMAO I did actually think of this but then was like when would Paige have time to just walk around Minsk and find alcohol lol?

That whole scene is veryy vaguely inspired by my own first kiss so it was actually pretty easy to write and I just channeled my inner 15 year old (been a while for me too) into it

NOT THE LOINS LMAO I had a feeling you'd appreciate the "plot twist"

Azzi's just an overthinker BUT SHE'S WORKING ON IT! In the meantime I guess blondie has custody of their one shared braincell.

LMAO I don't think anyone will ever get to the level of edging that @pb524830 did like she's simply just the queen of sexual tension and making us suffer.

THE CAR SEAT SCENE REALLY WAS FOR YOU SO I'M SO HAPPY YOU LIKED IT

I'm so attached to Miss Buecks like I lowkey don't want to have Stephie call her anything else and I can't think of any other original nickname that only Stephie would call her.

[pricescigar]

Alejandro Vargas X chubby F!Reader

(Civillian)

A Persephone & Hades retelling ...

CW: Implied NSFW 🔞

Requested by: @shadofireshinobi

The following pronouns are She/Her

[Info:

Alejandro - Persephone (Personality)

You - Hades (Personality) ]

Hades was depicted as stern and pitiless, unmoved by prayer or sacrifice (like death itself). ! Hades is most often portrayed as borderline emotionless and stoic !

Persephone belongs to the Vulnerable Goddesses, thus she is innately receptive and attentive to others.

♡

○ Alejandro had known you for a while now, almost a year pratically. You didn't like him at first, despite the man he was and the kind of job he did. While you, you had a normal job which wasn't a bad thing at all. Despite it being a small job you loved it, it had it's ups and downs. You liked your colleagues, and that was enough.

° You met him through your best friend - Rodolfo, you knew him for a long time. He mentioned his friend Alejandro. And you agreed to meet him one time, not that you regretted it ... But Alejandro was definitely a ray of sunshine as you'd say.

° Alejandro didn't mind the fact you was more reserved and serious, such things never bothered him. After all, he was really happy to meet you.

° He had a bubbly and caring personality. The one you wasn't quite used to seeing, he'd always check up on you every day on how you were doing. The same little text messages you'd always see...

° 'How are you mi amor?'

'You look beautiful today Princesa.'

At first you rolled your eyes at the little text messages, but over time you warmed up to them. But you didn't admit it to yourself.

° Outside of work life, Alejandro always wanted to see you. Sometimes you'd be working or you'd actually have a day off for once.

° There was one time when he visited you at work, happy as he could be with a bouquet of flowers that you liked in his hands and handing them to you. (That was definitely the work gossip of the day) The embarrassment on your face was palpable.

° How did he know you liked those flowers? Probably Rodolfo told him ... Godamnit.

° Over time your relationship blossomed and the familair feeling in your stomach, the butterflies. It pissed you off - God, why was he so handsome?

° Alejandro had always been into you, since the first day he had met you. He wasn't one for being discreet... That is one thing for sure.

° For your first date you went out on a coffee shop date with him, it wasn't much bit it was meaningful... And nice, and as always he spoiled you with flowers and other little gifts. Deep down, you loved the attention.

° People always realised how your personalities crashed, complete polar opposites ... How could this ever work!?

° But it did ....

◇

NSFW

♡ The first time you two did sex was actually at a small party, both of you was drunk. And the alcohol may have taken part of it, but also your deep love for one and another.

♡ You was frustrated in how much you loved him, the sed you two did that night was a mix between anger, love and absolute passion.

♡ "I fucking hate you." You'd say as a moan parted your lips, and you remembered the way Alejandro chuckled... "I love you too."

♡ The next morning hit you like a train , the aftermath with the hangover. Both you and Alejandro knew what happened last night. As adults, you talked, you two decided to give this relationship a try.

♡ It was one of the beat decisions you ever made, you didn't realise how much you loved him. It made you feel good, to have someone. To see you for who you are, to love you for who you are.

♡ Alejandro is an attentive, caring and passionate lover in the bed with you, he loves how he can squeeze your thigs so easily, marking you and biting the skin.

♡ At times you were a little self conscious, Alejandro always understood how you were feeling. But his words would always reassure you ...

"You're beautiful to me Muñeca, every waking moment, every night, you are mi reina."

♡ Though basic, both of your favorite sex positions are missionary, cowgirl, doggy. It doesn't take much for Alejandro to be turned on.

♡ Happily he would let you sit on his face, while he gripped your thighs and lick your walls, the pleasure makes your legs shake in anticipation.

♡ Of course you give Alejandro his share of pleasure as well, more or less it's teasing. Sometimes you'd take photos of you in your blue, black or dark coloured lingerie, and you'd hit the send button to Alejandro ... And you was well aware of the consequences.

♡ You'd give him blowjobs, the whole lot, when he's stressed? Blowjob. If he's been a good boy? Blowjob, there's never a time where you'd please Alejandro, the way you rile him up and tease him always has him whimper and begging for more...

♡ The after care is a bliss... Alejandro would always kiss your body, praise you, massage you where he'd been too rough on you. He'd out his shirts on you, and cuddle you for the rest of the night.

♡ Sometimes you'd run a bubble bath and you two relax together, the warm water relaxing your muscles sd the two of you relaxed.

[confoundedluna]

y'all sound off with until dawn movie predictions in the notes I Need to see what y'all think will happen

I'll go first, Matt and Jess are high on the kill list and I highly doubt both make it out, one of them is very likely the first death outside of the prologue, Jess on the elevator could be possible but the shock of her returning later in the mines and living after Matt gets hooked as the actual first death are intriguing

next on the tier list are Chris, Ash and Em, I think they're more likely to make it out but again I don't think it'll be all three, i'm thinking Em gets bitten and either shot in the basement, or eyes gouged in the lodge so we get the 'Understand the palm of my hand, bitch' line (I just Desperately need to see that on the big screen), though it's also possible her grinder death happens just because of how gnarly that is, but it's a bit too early on for my liking, and really I just really hope she is portrayed on the nicer end of her possible paths because she's already shit on by the fandom enough, don't need a new wave of movie fans that shit on her too

then Sam and Mike, it's possible both survive, but one might go out, i'm saying Mike personally is the more likely of the two to go but the more of them make it out alive, the better for me

Josh definitely gets turned, no way about it, my boy is gonna Suffer and it will hurt, I just hope they're a bit better about portraying his mental health struggles - Rami's performance was a big part of pulling off the game depiction, the writing for him isn't that great really, as other people have said before

I hope The Stranger gets portrayed by an actual Native actor, and that Native people are consulted fully on the development

EDIT

also adding on, I know it's a film so the totem mechanic isn't necessary, but it could be a cool way to show the butterfly effect and stuff that isn't actually in the film if they use it right, like the one Chris finds of Emily burning in the lodge fire, that happens really early on, and to have the tension of wondering if/when that would happen could be cool, especially if there's a mix of stuff that does and doesn't happen - not all the totems need to be included since there's so many, but a few of them could add to the film for sure

[imhereformysciencefriends]

@mcyt-yuri-week Day 7, Free day!

Niki/Lady Death for this one, read on AO3 here

MCD but that's like, the premise

Niki was drugged and drunk for it, at least. Hazed into a stupor where she really couldn’t feel anything but floaty, tangentially aware of the hooded and robed figures around her, the torchlight, her own vulnerability, but untouched by it. Like watching it happen to someone else, in third person. The chanting people sent prayers down to Death, and Niki was urged to lay out on a stone plinth. Her flesh prickled at its coldness, but that, too, she barely felt.

The knife they used was sharp. She barely even felt it.

A butterfly landed on the plinth next to her, beautiful blues and blacks and dark purples, and Niki swore she heard it laughing.

Acute awareness hit her like a minecart, but not any pain. In fact, as she glanced down at where the hole in her chest should be, she found herself dressed in her favorite sweater and overalls, no worse for wear. There was an almost… iridescence to her, though, fiery pinks and oranges and reds.

She was somewhere entirely unfamiliar, the clover and flowers beneath her feet all a uniform, night-sky blue. The sky itself was only just a shade darker, barely keeping off black. It stretched out for miles in each direction, the landscape unbroken save for the occasional tree which was also that midnight blue, leaves rustling in nonexistent wind.

The air was unnaturally still here.

Niki realized she wasn’t breathing.

Well, she had just died. It only made sense.

The horizon changed, a massive, black shape taking form so far away Niki at first didn’t see it. But then the form grew closer, and Niki recognized Her Ladyship.

Lady Death wore the wide brimmed hat and veil she was always depicted with, the high-necked dress and long sleeves, the lacey gloves. Much of what she wore was sheer or see-through fabric, providing a beautiful view to her ample bust, the soft curves of her thighs and calves, the warm roundness of her hands and arms.

The nonexistent wind blew her veil just barely open, and Niki caught a glimpse of the picked-clean bone of her skull. Lady Death was soft bodied and long haired and rounded only where her clothing covered her. To glimpse her true form was to see the skeleton only.

Her painted lips were round and soft and black. She smiled at Niki.

Niki hadn’t even realized she’d dropped to her knees.

“I don’t know why you silly humans keep sending me sacrifices,” Her Ladyship said, voice lilting and giggling faintly. “You all will come to me eventually. My power does not depend on your worship like lesser gods.”

Niki realized that this was a conversational beat where she was supposed to respond, but her empty mouth hung open and silent when she tried. Her thoughts themselves were void of words, much less her speech.

Death giggled.

“I do tend to have that effect on people.”

Niki blinked, and tried desperately to get herself to say something. Even something stupid that would embarrass her! Anything to make it seem like she wasn’t ignoring The Literal Goddess Of Death.

But Lady Death was patient (as a goddess of her nature would have to be, most certainly) and let Niki struggle through the mental block of bearing witness to divinity.

“Hi,” she managed, quite stupidly indeed, and Lady Death gave a full belly laugh, her cheeks scrunching up against her eyes and her hair shaking with the bellows.

“Hello, little Niki! It’s nice to finally meet you!”

“Nice to meet you,” she said, her voice very very small, very quiet. She couldn’t tear her eyes away from the goddess who’d seated herself next to her, but she didn’t need to blink, so.

“How are you feeling?” Lady Death asked warmly. Niki felt the words in her… body(?) like a physical warmth.

“Shocked, I think.”

“That’s fair. Most people feel that way, even when they knew that this was coming.”

Niki felt a little better at that.

“It’s… an honor to meet you,” Niki tried, angling for polite.

Lady Death giggled again, cheeks warm with a subtle flush and lips curved mischievously. Niki felt a shiver strike through her, clean down her spine.

“The pleasure is all mine, little Niki,” the goddess said, and if Niki had a heart she was certain it would be suddenly pounding. Lady Death reached forward and cupped Niki’s face in two warm, soft hands, the lace of her gloves faintly ticklish against Niki’s now-sensitive skin. Her lips parted, but like before, she was too stunned to speak. Particularly as her Ladyship bent in, face close to Niki’s, the fluttering of her veil so close Niki felt phantoms of its touch against her nose.

“You are so lovely. You know, I’m really not supposed to do this, it isn’t fair to everyone else. But I have been known for being quite the rulebreaker, when it comes to my favorites.”

“Your—” Niki stuttered, now flushed full red. Favorite? But Niki had only just now died, and they’d only just met?

As though reading her thoughts, Lady Death continued, “It’s alright, sweet little thing. You’ll have plenty of time to get to know me later, once you’re all done.”

All done? And what was this about breaking rules, too!?

“Um, Lady Goddess…” Niki started, but the proximity of their faces once again had her at something of a loss for words. “What do you, what do you mean?” she asked, hoping the question wasn’t so vague that she couldn’t answer it.

Lady Death giggled again, then reached one hand up to touch her veil. She parted it—just barely—and Niki would’ve gasped if she’d had any breath, when she leaned all the way in and kissed her. It was the touch of gleaming white teeth to breathless lips, and for only a fleeting moment also, but to Niki it was a kiss more intimate than any she’d ever received in life.

Then Lady Death was pulling back and giggling at her again, catlike and smug, her veil replaced so Niki saw soft flesh and round, plush lips.

“I mean you’re not to be mine—just yet. Not in full, little Niki. Though I do hope you’ll remember this, won’t you sweetheart?”

Niki wasn’t sure she could ever forget, but before she could answer, or ask any more of her thousand questions she sat so blankly on, the goddess was fading from her view, and so was the dark blue place. And so was her consciousness. And her existence altogether.

She gasped awake, hands folded neatly over her belly, in the middle of a flower field, dappled sunlight barely making it through the leaves of the tree she “slept” under.

Niki sat up slowly, examining herself. She was breathing. Her heart pulsed in her chest. She was no longer in that in-between place. The fiery pinks and oranges that hazed around her were gone.

Had it all been—no, it couldn’t have. She yanked down the neckline of her dress and found a massive scar where they’d cut out her heart, and fingers pressed to the tissue reassured her once again that her heart was beating there.

What had happened? Why was she alive? She had passed into the domain of the Goddess of Death, the eternal garden from which no soul was ever meant to return. How was she back here, in the domain of the living?

She raised her fingertips from her heart to her lips. She could not feel the cool press of bone against them, but in her memory, she was able to summon the phantom of it. The sensation of kissing Lady Death.

Niki’s freshly forged heart skipped a beat.

[thiccthighs19]

Parallel Lines

Pairing: introvert!jungkook x extrover!reader

Genre: angst, friends to lovers

Word Count: 1k

Warning: mentions of de@th. Please note, all characters depicted in this story are fictional and are derived from my own imagination. The story is written for entertainment purposes. It does not intend to mock, ridicule, or impersonate any real-life people, groups, or organizations. The characters and story are original and do not portray any bts member.

"Parallel lines, a forbidden romance. Destinated to pass by each other without ever being together."

She loved roses; her beauty overshadowed the grace of roses, her sun-tanned skin captivated his heart. Her heart-shaped lips and fluffy cheeks made his love grow. Oh, how bad he wished to squeeze them forever. He found himself trapped in her soft caramel eyes; a beauty that reminded him of stepping into a paradise of pure bliss. Her hair smelled like cherries, it was something to delight the senses, for nothing could ever compare to the sweet fragrance she possessed. He never liked them, but after she sat beside him for the first time in class, they became his favourite. He never realized how much he would adore that delicious scent, only because it reminded him of her. Also, how can he hate something that smells like her?

He remembers the first time he heard her voice; and it became a part of him that he desperately craved to hear again and again. He wasn't the one for reading , but the moment he learned about her endless love for books, was like a light bulb moment. From that moment on, he made it a habit to visit the library every weekend, all in an effort to get closer to the bookish beauty who had stolen his heart. She was akin to a goddess, so ethereal and divine, a being who was beyond his understanding. He felt unworthy of her, knowing he could never match up to her allure. In his eyes, he was insignificant compared to her beauty and brilliance. 'Who could ever love a person like me?' He would always ponder, never daring to hope. But despite his insecurities, he couldn't resist loving her from afar, unable to tear his eyes away from her radiant beauty.

It was their graduation day when his beloved confessed her feelings to him. His heart fluttered like butterflies, and the world around him came to a standstill. But the bittersweet revelation made him realize just how worried she had been that he would reject her. How could he have ever thought he had a right to break this girl's heart? He was on cloud nine but the pain of knowing she was leaving the country soon stung all the worse. She was leaving for a bright future ahead, but the moment she confessed, a deep sense of sorrow washed over him. He wasn't sure why this bittersweet moment was making him feel so melancholy, but maybe the heartbreak was inevitable all along. If only they knew fate had different plans for them...

Four years. It has been four years since she had departed for her studies. Jungkook has had no contact with her ever since—his efforts to keep track of her seemed pointless. He's a successful man now, got everything he once desired except that one person he adored. The day before was their school reunion, he anxiously surveyed the room in futile search for those enchanting caramel eyes he adored so much. He hoped against hope to catch a glimpse of her, but reality proved more harsh than he imagined, for she had found someone else to replace him in her life. The passage of time was no excuse, he feared. Maybe she hadn't even thought of him anymore? Rage filled his entire body. Maybe she doesn't even remember him now. The atmosphere grew gloomier the moment one of his classmates started speaking about her untimely demise. Time came to a halt for Jungkook. He was overcome with a sickening feeling in his stomach, a sickening feeling that he knew all too well. The terrible news of her death was like a wave of reality crashing into his mind, drowning out any hopes that he still had of her existence. It was a crushing blow that his heart struggled to process. His throat grew dry, his breath shallow, as the nausea of grief washed over him, as the one thing he could never imagine was being without her. She had passed away in a fatal car crash, which was devastating enough, but she never even left their country...a country she had been so excited to go study in. It seemed an impossible curse fell upon her; why hadn't anyone thought to inform him of this tragedy? He never fit in before. His introverted nature and isolation had kept him out of the social circles, so he expected nobody would have thought to reach out to him. People only approached him when it was convenient or necessary, and they never even tried to initiate small talk. So, it was no surprise when no word about her passing reached him. He was truly alone, and this news only served to emphasize his lonliness. His mind wandered to how no one wanted to interact with him until she did.

He scrambled to the graveyard in search of a name he desperately did not want to find. But there, her name, and her final resting place, was engraved in stone. The carvings of the tombstone felt like a knife in his heart. As he studied the words, the enormity of her passing weighed heavy on his mind.

sacred to the memory

of Y/l/n Y/n

1997-2022

Her name, carved so beautifully on the tombstone, made his heart skip a beat. The roses that caught his eyes were just like the two of them—always close, yet unable to be together. Tears flooded down his face as he laid the sweet flowers on her grave. She would have loved these roses. Maybe she was one now. He missed his love so terribly, and this sight felt like a surreal dream—a dream he dreaded was real. It had been a long time since their last meeting, and so much had changed. But in all this time, he never stopped loving her. The flowers on her grave were an act of love, and of pure loneliness, as he realized it was all too late, and he had lost her forever.

-Okay so, this is actually like my debut and I'm so nervous to be very honest! I have edited the text so many times but I think this feels right. So, I'm sticking with it.