#and honestly the leads not being treated like dirt

[kdramaxoxo]

Seo In Guk And Lee Sung Kyung In Talks To Lead New Romance Drama By “She Was Pretty” Writer

I 100% trust Seo In Guk but She Was Pretty is probably my least favorite k-drama on earth.

[threepandas]

Bad End: Mama Mine

I woke, that first time, to the most beautiful child I had ever seen. Even through a fever that felt like it was cooking me from within, I could see she was different. It was honestly impossible not too. She looked cherubic. Angelic. Impossible, somehow. As though favored by the gods.

Even in worn, threadbare, patched then re-patched old clothes, so far from new as to have forgotten the name of it, she looked... like a dancer. Beautiful. A tiny painting brought to life. I couldn't understand, delirious as I was. I thought I was hallucinating. Worried her terribly.

She was just a small thing. Trying her best. Too care for her sick mother. She could barely reach the stove. Struggled to carry the buckets of water she needed, to cook and wipe my fevered sweat away. But she let nothing stop her. So determined to save me. Her little face so filled with love and worry, forever a step away from tears.

She was so afraid.

How could I do anything but love her back?

Disoriented or not. Lost and confused I may be. I had a child. Any plan I made? Would be for two. I had never really seen myself a mother, but cast into the role? I refused to abandon the child who loved and needed me. Who was innocent in all this.

Instead, as my fever broke, I held her close. Told her she had been so, so brave. Let her cry. Cuddled my little girl and gave myself a moment to just... breathe.

Then in the morning I got to work.

I appeared to be a single mother. A PEASANT single mother. Delightful. We had little to nothing to our name. I could try and fix that, I think. I knew a few crafts. But I had "forgotten" everything practical. Great. Luckily? I had a VERY observant little helper. Who remembered most of how everything was done.

I could context clues from there.

We made due.

Cleaned up the house, washed the linens, aired everything out. In bits and pieces, using half remembered wiki binges and crafting videos, I improved our little homestead somewhat. It wasn't by MUCH. I didn't have the skills. But it looked... nicer, I think. Homey.

We foraged. Sold hunted animals and things we had found. The occasional baked good. More then that? I tried to make time for my daughter. Keep her away from powerful eyes. The sort that might covet a pretty young thing. Taught her what I could.

Not just how to braid her beautiful hair, but that her beauty did not define her. That love was wonderful but not all there was to life. Too be wary of empty promises and watch for how the powerful treat those that they deem weaker then them. To lead with a smile but be prepared to throw her fist.

Also don't eat those mushrooms, honey, those are the poisonous ones.

I wish... Honestly? I wish I could have given my daughter a better childhood. Better education then the lessons scratched in dirt I was able. If I'd been able to REMEMBER. To recognize. Maybe I would have scrimped and saved more for third or forth hand textbooks, instead of the new hunting knife she so badly wanted.

But I didn't remember.

And as we were visiting town? PROPER town as opposed to our little settlement? I heard about wealthy, comparatively, family's having their children tested for... magic?

I faltered but adapted. Was it that much stranger then being transported into a new body and world? Magic it was then, I guess. Huh. We continued shopping. I bought my daughter a new sturdy pair of boots. Room to grow, would serve her well. She adored them. They had FLOWERS on them, mama! I couldn't help but laugh. Ah, my daughter is so cute!

Then I saw it.

As we passed the temple square. The only building in this whole town that could count as ostentatious. Some silk clad toddler broke from the pressing crowds, no doubt displeased with being crushed in on all sides. He wriggled free. Back from the steps and out into the road. Blind to the mortal peril he had just put himself in as the carriage of some wealthy To-Do raced carelessly down the street. Looking around, innocent, as only a toddler can as he wandered farther and farther from safety.

I dropped my shopping.

The world fuzzy and muffled, far away in my panic. Some Mother's instinct SCREAMING as I raced forward. Throwing a few people aside to reach the road. Then bolting. Distantly I heard my daughter scream, another scream as they finally notice, too late, their child was in mortal peril. But all I could see... was the little boy. Turning. Noticing. The big scary horses.

About to crush him to death.

Time felt slow.

I got there.

Then PAIN.

Far away, people were screaming. A child was crying. Small and terrified in my arms. Some arrogant voice was first demanding, then stuttering, then begging. A frantic voice, joined by others. Rich perfume. The... the child reaching for someone. Safe? Safe. I let go. Tried to smile. Ah... my daughters voice. Crying. Shhhh, shhhh. I'm sorry. It's okay. I'm sorry.

Ah... there... there was so much blood.....

Then there was LIGHT.

Like someone had cupped the sky itself and poured it directly onto me. Blue. So light and weightless and blue. The pain vanished as though erased. New agony and old aches alike. My eyes blinked open in suprise. And there? Tear stained and glowing? Was my daughter.

Like the sky itself had wrapped around her. Sunlight and blue sky and drifting clouds. Swirling like she was the world itself. Her eyes filled with tears when they connected with mine. With a choked cry, she through herself into my arms. Oh, baby. My poor baby. I wrapped my arms around her tight. Hugged her back for all I was worth.

"Your daughter?" A gentle voice asked.

I looked up. What HAD to be a noble woman sat, skirts ruined, in the dirt and blood at my head. Clutching desperately at the toddler I had saved. I could only nod. Understanding passed between us. Mother to mother.

Which is why, when a priest with covetous eyes came forward?

The noble women's smile turned cold.

She had changed her mind. She was, in fact, going to have her son tested by the temple closer to home. AND? She was going to be taking us with her. I agreed. Immediately and before anyone could try to seperate us. Daughter mine, darling, honey, Get In The Carriage. NOW.

We got out of there while the getting was still possible.

It was safe to assume, my new noble friend eventually said, that my daughter had magic. But what did that mean for us? Well, according to Nation Law? (Oh goodie. Laws I know nothing about.) She would have to attend the Royal Magica Academy.

What.

I knew that name. I KNEW that name! My jaw was surely on the floor, my daughter squeeking out flustered and rambling questions at my side. But... but all I could do? Was slowly turn to look at her. She was healthier then the game cover. Not as "that's not what real women look like!" Thin that... that in hindsight? Was probably prolonged food scarcity. Starvation.

She was taller too. Less... oh god, less "child like". That had to have been malnutrition. Stunted growth.

The way her hair shown, soft and healthy. The brightness to her skin and nails. Clarity to her eyes. Fullness to her cheeks. She was hardly even within sight of being a plump child, more muscle then anything, from a life of work and survival, but? She wasn't... waifish. I had made sure of that.

Even if it meant sacrificing my own meals to do so.

But I could SEE it. Could SEE the familiar features. The curling hair and doe like grey eyes. The generic princess character that I had been playing right before... before... God, I couldn't even remember the game's NAME. Just the plot. It had been mid at best. Magnificent art. Everyone raving there was some secret twist after the first play through.

So I grit my teeth a pushed through the generic. Tried to figure out what it was.

Never did get the chance. I died before the second play through and the twist everyone insisted made the game awesome. Now I wish I had caved and looked up spoilers. I tried to remember the mother. Did she die? What happens to my baby girl? Should I push her towards one man or another? Let her follow her heart?

It's a long, long night.

We stay in a guest room. Fancier then anything I've ever seen in this life. I keep my daughter calm. Help her avoid embarrassing herself. Tips for when in doubt. See, honey? It's a learning opportunity! No need to panic! Mama's certainly not, on the inside! She's very calm. Completely, utterly, definitely very ultra calm. Ha ha...

I think my soul had a panic attack.

Things moved very quickly after that. In the end, they had too, if I was to keep my daughter safe. The temple would want to train her. Her magic was apparently quite rare. Religiously significant. And being so lovely? She would make an EXCELLENT propaganda peice. A figurehead and puppet, forevermore in gilded chains.

Everything I feared for her.

No. That was NOT going to happen.

The Academy it was. Nobles and their games aside. The education would be unparalleled. She could probably even make friends. Possibly find love. I told her to Be CAREFUL. That is was a treacherous but beautiful place. Filled with powerful people used to getting their way. Do whatever she must to survive. Thrive. Be happy.

And remember, she is loved.

I...Returning home alone felt like ripping my heart out. I had thought I would have years, yet, before my daughter married and moved out. That I would have time to adjust. Get used to the idea, as my future son-in-law came around. Instead? I returned from a trip to emptiness. A life interrupted.

My daughters sewing, still resting, waiting for her, on the kitchen table.

I collapsed. Weeping. In the entryway.

My tiny home had never felt so vast and hollow.

Days passed. Then weeks. Finally, a letter arrived. Delivered by a very uncomfortable servant. The man checking more then once if I was TRUELY who he was supposed to deliver too. Clearly more then a little uncomfortable in the presence of such poverty. I did not care. I had a letter, thick with writing, from my daughter.

She was doing well.

MORE then well. My lessons had actually put her ahead of the curve in several classes, much to the shock and outrage of her peers. They had expected poverty to equal mental deficiency, it seems. And the library was quickly making up for any classes she was behind in. That's my girl!

She had made several friends that way. Quiet young ladies, willing to help her make sense of the complexities of history or magical theory. From nice, stable, neutral houses, too. No tea parties yet. Or boys. But I didn't care.

My baby had FRIENDS!

I sent a care package of her things back. Not indiscriminately, of course. But tools and notes, a few unfinished projects she had been working on to pass the time. Some snacks from home. They would likely still embarrass her somewhat, but... I did not want her to think I did not CARE. That I had tossed her towards that Academy and promptly forgotten her.

The servant, Geoffrey, and I got to see quite a lot of each other.

He got over the state of my house rather quickly. Instead, started bringing things he "just happened to have lying around" that would you look at THAT? I happened to need! Between letters on my daughter's meeting, then dramas, with pretty wealthy boys? Geoffrey helped me repair my roof. I mended his uniform. We shared new year's festivities together.

I even went to the actual festival, like I was some sort of lovely young thing.

As my daughter grew closer to graduation, the questions started. If I could go anywhere, where would it be? If I could do anything? What if I never had to work again? I wasn't a fool. Told her in no uncertain terms. If I EVER suspected she married for anything less then love and herself, I would disown her.

I did not sacrifice so that my daughter would SUFFER.

However... it seemed there was more then a few things my daughter had left from her letters. The next letter arrived in the hand of a man that wore Geoffrey's face, but even as I walked back towards my cabin from the forest... I knew.

That was not the man I had grown to love.

When the imposter turned, no doubt to lie, I RAN. Dropping my harvest of foraged wild greens. I had been planning to make a dish for him. One he was fond off. Perhaps my daughter's magic came from me, my line instead of her unknown father, or perhaps I had just enough to give it wings. To carry her to term.

Because...

I knew he was dead.

They pursued me. Of course they did. But this was a forest I had wandered for years. I lost them in the trees. Attacked them with rocks and stones. Destroyed my trails with rocks and rivers. Every hunter I crossed paths with an ally. Every hunting trap a peril I could lead them into. They were good.

I was better.

But more came.

Then more. And more. And MORE.

And I was not so good as to fend of a legion. I would not risk the village for some nobles scheme. I was dragged, bloody, bruised before some arrogant little sadist. A nasty little creature, like a porcelain doll filled with bile. What an utter waste of good fabric. I told her as much. Interrupt her sneering little monolog.

The backhand across the face barely hurt.

Toddlers had more muscle.

Unfortunate for this brat. My daughter had arrived in time to see that. And worse for this brat, she brought her friends and suitors. A veritable crowd of power and influence. The brat did not have the common sense to shut up while she was ahead. Even I, a peasant, could recognize royalty on sight. There were at least two of them before us.

MY daughter was not as merciful as the Cannon Protagonist had been.

It was a blood bath.

I tried to stay awake. Head wounds and all that. I... I had wanted to introduce Geoffrey to my daughter. Hinted at it, over my letters. I would... would never get the chance now... oh god. Geoff. Geoff, forgive me. Tears welled up. I could not stop them. Just as I could not stand. Just as I could not move...

I was... was rather useless... wasn't I?

Familiar yet no longer familiar arms threw themselves around me. Cradled me close to a softly perfumed chest, locks of hair I'd know anywhere, shielding me from the world.

"Mama..." my little girl said. Her voice the very picture of heartbreak. "I'm sorry. I... I was too late."

One of her suitors untied me. The knight, probably, from the calluses I felt. But all I could think about was, wrapping my daught in my arms. Together for the first time in years. And it had to be like THIS? Oh gods. Why was fate so cruel?

My little girl had grown so big.

This was a grown woman in my arms.

I just... I just wanted this terrible night to END. And as my daughters power slid over me? It did.

I woke up in a guest room. He dear friend Agatha had INSISTED. Geoffrey had worked for her family. It... it brought relief. To mourn with people who had known him. He had apparently spoken of me. Quite often. The sap.

It... it wasn't fair.

But when was life ever fair?

My daughter visisted. Now that i was finally closer. Her suitors dropped by, to pay their respects I think. Possibly win me over, as mother of their lady love. They were awkward little things. It was adorable. I was patient. Listened. Prodded them when then froze up, uncertain of what to talk about. Got them rambling about their hobbies. Really, it was no great difference then most shy kids.

The visited more. Stayed longer.

Brought gifts.

The gifts were expensive, elaborate, and wildly impractical. I was forced to gently explain why I, a peasant woman, could NOT accept their gift of fist size gemstones. It started with "I will be robbed" and ended with "they WILL be certain I stole these, no matter WHAT documentation you give me. I will die". They were very confused and alarmed. Much like puppies learning that suddenly treats were somehow illegal.

Agatha herself? Was a delight.

A very "mob" looking young lady with a sharp wit and an old man's sense of humor. Her personal maid was Geoffrey's niece. That neither held against me what had happened? Spoke of both of their maturity and grace. They WOULD however, never forgive the house that ordered the attack. I much agreed.

I considered, going back to the village, but...

The memories were too raw there.

I decided to follow my daughter, settle near wherever she decided to go. She seemed thrilled at the idea. Somehow, word spread. On the next visit, the future "head of the mage's tower" and man of entirely too many titles, Valtaan mentions an estate he owns near the Tower. How it lies empty. Would be the PERFECT place for a mother-in-law, you know... if he had one. Lovely gardens!

Oh, really?

Then, the Knight mentions how HE'S going to be stationed up North. In a Great Big Fortress with SO many rooms. Just... just SO MANY. Entirely too many, really. Honestly, he should bring more people! Like a wife! And... and a Mother-in-law! Really fill up the place, you know?

Mmmmhmmm.

The Prime Minister to be? Oh HE talks of TRAVEL. Ever considered traveling? The Embassies are LOVELY. So much to DO around them. Foreign lands, beautiful locals, silks and lovely little treats.

You don't say....

The Duke is blunt about it, at least.

I have a castle. I have SEVERAL castles. Estates. He is aware you are not motivated by that, but it does leave you with options for where you want to live should your daughter decide to marry him. And he DOES intend to marry my daughter. Second husband if not the first. Motivated, aren't we?

I politely infor both prince's, the SECOND they sit down, before they open their mouth, that I like them. I do. A lot in fact. But it's not going to happen. It'll be a cold day in hell the day I let my daughter marry into the royal family and they both know exactly why. They pause... consider it. Then nod.

They agree.

Wouldn't wish this life upon ANYONE who had a chance at something better.

My daughter graduates, with HONORS. There is much gnashing are rending of clothes from the elitist base. Ha! Get fucked. I STILL have no idea what the "twist" is in the plot or if I was being punked. Also not a single clue which, if any, of her suitors she's chosen. Could be all of um. I could care less so long as everyone consents and is aware of each other.

The graduation party is, naturally, grand. I'm in a dress one of the suitors likely bought for me. Somehow, I actually look like I belong. Instead of dancing and reveling, my munchkins hover. As though afraid to leave me alone at my first Big Girl Party. I laugh, trying to shoo them away. Go, go!

My daughter stubbornly shakes her head, leaning against me, her dress complimenting mine. Though I doubt I could be half as lovely.

"Noooo~ I refuse! I will be staying Right HERE, Mama!" Her voice is playful but... there's something strained. Desperate, that's never really gone away I think. Not since the accident. "What if someone tries to take you AWAY? You're too pretty! You gotta stay with US, mama!"

I laugh out loud, completely missing the interested looks that glance my way. Well to do gentleman, widowers and respected servants alike. Long time bachelor's, who's eyes linger a touch too long on the length of my neck, the curve of shoulder. The way it dips down, past my collarbones towards someplace... interesting.

My crowd of young protectors DO NOT miss the looks.

Bristle like angry cats. Eye venomous and society smiles sharp enough too cut glass. There is a murder to their expression. A command to Look Away.

While you still have EYES.

"No, Mama." My daughter insists when I try to tell her she's wrong. That I am far from desirable. "I'm not letting go. Not EVER. We're FAMILY. And that means? That means you're MINE."

[honeysickledream]

'Overgrown' - Simon 'Ghost' Riley x F!Reader | Chapter One

(photo credit: me [@honeysickledreams])

warnings | tags: F!reader, no use of Y/N and no physical descriptions of reader, reader is a healer and midwife, this is set in a very vague ‘middle ages’ time, forced/arranged marriage, angst, slow burn (heavy emphasis on slow), miscommunication, there’s no communication at this point honestly, relationship issues, relationship doubts, (mild) hurt with no comfort, no smut this time around but still minors DNI, mild horror/fear element towards the beginning (a nonexistent monster is described in detail + the briefest mentions of animal and possible person-on-person attacks along with it) | that’s everything off the top of my head, lmk if I missed anything!

word count: ~2.6k

synopsis: You had married Simon four months ago, the whole thing some stupid forced arrangement. You had left everything you knew behind to live with Simon in his cabin a few miles out from his hometown. You weren't sure you could classify your relationship as a marriage, or even say truthfully that you lived with him because he wasn't around very often. Some part of you hopes things improve, but you're not unwillingly to do what you can to live the life you'd originally planned for.

Next Part ->

Thin clouds softly colored purple and pink from the sunset drifted overhead. Street lamps burned away at the oil and cloth wicks. The townspeople flooded the rough streets as they went about their evening routines of visiting the markets, going home after a long day or meeting with others. Some mothers were wandering the alleyways where their unruly children wandered after being sent out to play. You did your best to move through the crowds of people, hopping onto the wooden promenades to get around the slower and louder groups so you wouldn’t have to trek home in total darkness. The walk back to the cabin was a few miles out, and after spending four months tending to mothers and their children, you had heard more than your fair share of stories about the shadows in the woods and the spindly-legged beasts that enjoyed gobbling up those who were out too late. Logically you knew those creatures weren’t out there, that the mothers were telling their children such stories to keep them from wandering off into the woods and finding themselves food for wolves and bears. But as you walked alone on the dirt road that cut through the thick of the woods, winding this way and that, with only a few thin paths branching off and leading to well-hidden cabins and cottages, you couldn’t help but feel uneasy. Like something was there behind the trees as it tried to make up its mind on whether you would be a tasty treat. You turned down the third path on the right that you came across, the old wooden sign reading ‘Riley’. The name had been etched into the surface haphazardly—either done by a child ages ago or by someone with shoddy penmanship. Somewhere in the depths of the woods, a branch snapped. Your blood ran cold, your heart racing as you tried to keep yourself from going stock still. The creepy stories from the mothers in town began to fill your mind. Images flashed behind your eyes of lanky creatures with bark-covered antlers that dripped with the blood of their victims, cloaks made from human skin and moss draped over their shoulders, their smiles too wide and full of rows of pointed, thin teeth. Those stories were nonsense, you had to tell yourself with each step you took. If there was something in the woods you needed to fear, it would be the wolves or bears that would charge you before they mauled your defenseless body, or perhaps a person lurking in the woods with whatever foul plans they had brewing in their mind. But the notion to fear those things didn’t enter your mind, they never did when something startled you in the woods. For some reason the fantastical, wicked creatures seemed more terrifying than the real threats. The fear you felt subsided as soon as you saw the heavy door to your cabin, the dark blue paint faded. No candles or lanterns were lit, not that you expected them to be, but a disappointment settled in her heart where the fear had been nonetheless. You unlocked the door slowly, slipped inside and locked the door loudly. Once your boots were off, your cloak hanging from the rack by the door, and your aged medical case in its place by the sword stand that was empty like always, you did a quick search around the cabin, lighting candles in the rooms as you ensured that they were clear. The two bedrooms were empty, undisturbed. Your most recent crochet project was still on the couch in a snarled mess, the furniture still angled the way you liked it. You did a quick sweep of the kitchen, making sure no little critters had managed to find their way into the cabin to sample your loaves of bread or tore into your sacks of sugar or crates of ripening fruits. With everything safe, just the way you’d left it that morning before making your rounds through town, you lit the fire in the parlor before lighting the open hearth in the kitchen.

The front door’s lock unlatched loudly right as your nightgown fell down the rest of your body. Without hesitation you grabbed the dagger you kept under the face-down journal on your nightstand. You knew only one other person had a key to the cabin, but who was to say someone hadn’t gotten a locksmith’s set or perhaps one of those damned creatures from those horrible nighttime stories had managed to slip their thin nails into the locks to trigger the mechanisms.

Knife brandished before you, poised to strike at anything even if it was just to buy a few more seconds of breath before dying, you crept down the hallway. You stuck to the right side because it was the side that never creaked, something you learned a few days into living here. The middle of the hallway seemed to creak only when it was nighttime, while the left side creaked morning, noon or night. There was nothing at the entrance of the hallway, and no one was lingering around the front door to the right or in the parlor which was dead ahead. As you looked left into the kitchen where your pot of stew was still bubbling away, you noticed a broad and tall figure wafting the savory smells towards their face. Their back was towards you, their attire dirty and ratty but it was deep green of their cloak that caught your eye and told you that it was safe to lower your blade. “You’re back,” you whispered as you slowly approached the figure who froze when your voice broke through the silence. You didn't bother to hide the faint disappointment in your tone. The scars of the person’s face glinted in the candle- and hearth-light of the kitchen as their head turned. “’Course I am,” the man rasped, voice tight as if he hadn’t spoken for days. “Been four weeks, told ya I’d be back around now.” You glared at him, not just for being so nonchalant about his arrival. It was night, you were alone, no one around, and he just waltzed in without announcing himself. If you hadn’t noticed the green to his cloak, you could’ve stabbed him which wouldn’t have ended well for anyone. “I take it you’re hungry,” you said under your breath. You didn’t wait for his response, grabbing two bowls from the cupboard and two spoons from the drawer. Luckily you’d made a bit more stew than usual, but you knew you’d be scrambling to find him more food after he scarfed his portion down. You stirred the stew and sighed. It had a little ways to go before it was ready to be eaten. “Go fetch yourself water for a bath and get clean. You smell like a wet dog rolled in a puddle of decay, Simon.” He returned the glare you’d given him moments ago but did as you said and went to the back garden for pails of water. He had bristled when you said his name, rather than referring to him as ‘Ghost’. That happened often after he spent a hefty amount of time with his three friends who only referred to him as ‘Ghost’. Everyone in town did the same, or they used a string of descriptors to refer to him. Simon had told you to not refer to him as ‘Ghost’ while withholding the reason why you were given special license on your wedding day.

Bitterness settled heavy on your tongue, memories of your wedding day suddenly filling your mind. Every muscle seemed to tense and tears brimmed in your eyes. You knew the whole situation was horrible for Simon, too, not just for you, but very little about his life had changed that day. At least to your eyes, he had been able to remain in his hometown, living in his family’s cabin all while you had to move far away from the family that forced you to become a Riley. You had to leave everyone you loved behind, most of your belongings still in your old bedroom hidden under white sheets until your family re-purposed them or sold them off. And the marriage remained as rocky as it had been on day one—and it had been four months since the wedding. When Simon was home, he was gone most of the day, leaving near sun-up and returning near sun-down. Sometimes he was called away with his three friends for a few days, and most recently, they’d been called away to do something for four weeks. The two of you rarely talked when he was around, rarely spent more than an hour in the same room. Oh, and there was no physical intimacy. None. Your sisters wrote to you often asking how married life was (and if you had found yourself to be with child yet, which they made sure to never write out so bluntly, preferring to inquire between the lines) and you had no idea how to politely tell them that they had witnessed your husband barely give you a peck on your awful wedding day to seal the vows, so why would they think the marriage had gotten even remotely physical enough for there to be the possibility of a child? As you stood there stewing over the stew, you weren’t even sure you wanted children with Simon. If it ever did happen, would he be a supportive husband to you through all the pains and changes, the scares and the happy moments, the horror and miracle that was birth? Would he care for the child in such a way that would charm you into wanting to give him a dozen more babies? A bubble popped on the surface of the stew, ripping you from your contemplations and rapidly growing dissatisfaction and anger at everything. You licked the spot on the back of your hand and smiled faintly. You were sure you’d perfected the seasonings this time, as well as the ratio of carrots to celery. It was then that Simon cleared his throat and you looked up at where he leaned against the door frame. He dressed in loose cotton trousers and a sleep shirt, his body cleaned of whatever filth he’d gotten on himself. He’d even trimmed his dark blond hair, which was a shame because the slight length had looked rather charming on him.

Then you realized you’d been in your own head long enough for him to fetch water, heat it, bathe and dress, and for the stew to finish cooking. All the little lines you fed yourself daily about making the best out of this strange and aggravating situation seemed to have done nothing but give you some momentary distraction when you saw happy couples and families loving interacting with each other. “There’s fresh bread in the larder,” you told him as you began to ladle stew into his bowl, making sure to given him most of the venison. You knew that whatever he and his friends did when they were called away left them without hearty meals most of the time. Even just a few days away often left Simon looking a bit leaner, but four weeks away? The hollowness to his scarred cheeks made something twist in your chest to see it. You sat the bowls down on the little table in the corner of the kitchen, then turned to find Simon slicing the loaf—no, loaves…God, you made a mental note to get up early tomorrow to bake more before you left to tend to your patients. He’d also grabbed a jar of apple butter and poured you both a cup of water, which you thanked him for under your breath. The two of you sat at the table, eating in the usual silence, staring off at the usual spots of the wall. Your eyes trained on the cobweb in the left corner of the wall behind him, and his eyes trained on the wall behind you. Your brows furrowed when Simon suddenly made a face that you caught out of the corner of your eye. He picked up the jar of apple butter, examining it, then took another bite of the bread that he’d slathered the mixture on. He made the same face and you sighed. “I bought that stuff a few days ago.” You took it from him when he offered it up. It smelled just fine, it looked just fine, too. No discoloration or signs of something growing. You spread a little bit of it on the corner of your bread and took a bite. Simon snapped his fingers in some sort of triumph when you grimaced, too. Something about the apple butter mixing with the savoriness of the stew, perhaps even with the slight acidity of the bread, made everything taste wrong. Worse than wrong. You took a gulp of water to wash down the horrid taste. Before any more mistakes were made with the apple butter, you closed the container and made your way to the larder. After searching the moderately dusty shelves, you grabbed a jar of pepper preserves that had been gifted to you two weeks ago by one of your patients after helping her deliver her third child and first daughter. You hand it to Ghost who wasted no time in opening it and spreading the contents onto a fresh slice of bread. He took a large bite and his eyes fluttered closed as he chewed slowly. “I’m not sure why you thought apple butter would go well with such a savory stew,” you said under your breath as you resumed eating.

“Thought it’d be tangier,” he muttered around his bite of food. “Stew’s good, though. Not too garlicky like the last time ya made it.” You stared blankly at him. For some reason the idea that he sometimes found your stews too garlicky made something flip in your mind. Maybe it was because it had been a long day and now he was back after so long away, your normal routine disrupted which always managed to put you on edge. You managed to hold you tongue and look back to your food, waiting for Simon to say something else. But he didn’t say anything. He fell back into his usual silence and your frustration grew a little more. You finished eating your stew and a slice of bread with the pepper spread. Since Simon was eating rather slow, you left cleaning the kitchen to him as you put your dishes in the wash basin. You made your way to your bedroom, locking yourself inside. Everything suddenly felt wrong in the cabin, in your body, even in your mind. Like you were sweltering in the summer heat and unable to find a way to cool down and relax, despite it being the middle of autumn and your bedroom was somewhat chilly. For hours, you tossed and turned, pushing your sheets on and off, this way and that. Your mind always wandering to what was hidden under the loose floorboard by the bedroom door. After a while, you managed to fall asleep, but your rest was fitful.

[i-am-a-living-god]

wtf is wrong with Clear Sky

He's like worse then Tigerclaw and yet he's barley treated as a villain. he kicked out cats for being disabled including his own brother.

His own brother, a mere child, kicked out the moment he no longer has a use.

He murdered a cat for being in their home because he wanted to expand his already most of the forest territory, and then wanted to murder her children after he realized she was a mother who was only protecting her children.

He abandoned his child all because he was sour about his ex wife only to manipulate Thunder into abandoning his real family (Gray wing and Turtle tail) to join his fucked up little group of traumatized cats.

and then when his son breaks up with his girlfriend because he found out that she was actually just using him so that her murderer dad could kill his family easier. you know what Clear Sky does? He marries her!

He marries his son's ex girlfriend.

Who's dad tried to kill him and his family.

What. The. Fuck.

Also not to mention he's the whole reason for the shitty clan system in the first place.

Yup every problem with this series you can blame on Clear sky.

Gray Wing deserves a better brother honestly.

Ooh! We can't forget about the whole Falling Feather and Jackdaws Cry situation.

This mf took Falling Feather's very real concerns about how Clear Sky is leading as treason and then stripped her of all her rights.

He called a clan meeting just to publicly shame her and he told everyone that she is basically dirt beneath their paws and they can and should boss her around like she's worthless.

He told the clan that she is only allowed to eat the leftovers of whatever food was hunted, that she hunted herself because she was talking with her friend about how Clear Sky is kind of shit.

Oh did I mention that he grew up with this cat? These two cats have known each other since birth, how can he treat her like that?

He also threatened to kill Jackdaws Cry when he came to his camp to see his sister. They weren't even separate groups yet.

Anyway because of Clear Sky's horrible abuse of his camp mate's he ended up getting like ten cats killed (probably more) and Falling Feather and Jackdaws Cry ended up killing each other in this battle, all because Clear Sky is worried there won't be enough food in this pray rich forest.

He's greedy and doesn't even barely regret it.

He had two siblings kill each other because he is paranoid. The way Falling Feather acted in that battle really makes you feel how horrible Clear Sky's punishment must have been. She was so desperate to prove that she is loyal and not a traitor that in the end she ended up losing her life and taking down the one cat she cared for most with her.

Wow. Just wow.

The only "good thing" Clear Sky ever did was sacrifice his tail to save Gray Wings child.

I consider that just a fraction of a debt repaied. He still owes Gray Wing so much.

In conclusion, fuck Clear Sky.

And there are probably so many more awful things he did but I don't feel like listing them all. He's just the worst.

[writingwhimsey]

Congrats on your follower milestone!

Kanetsugu, Fake marriage trope? You can do whichever you like, but if I'm really forced to pick, fluff! I know he's a newbie but I know you'll do great! 🥰🥰🥰🥰

Alright, first fic in my 300 follower celebration. And also my first fic for Kanetsugu (who I totally fell in love with upin reading his route)! Alright here we are.

Thank you @limonzu for the request! This was a fun one to write! ANd thank you for following me and appreciating my work!

A fluffy Kanetsugu and the fake marriage trope. No warnings just fluff.

Married For the Night

It was in the aftermath of an insane battle, our base camp had been overrun and I had been separated from the Uesugi-Takeda forces, who, despite initially being enemies of the Oda forces, had been nothing but kind to me…despite me being a hostage. Kanetsugu, my watcher, and constant companion had become someone I cared for.

Somehow, I had managed to get away from the enemy, but now I was lost in the woods, tired, hungry and cold and the light was quickly fading. It was at this moment, I could hear what sounded like footsteps in the forest behind me.

Despite how tired and lost I was, hearing those footsteps sent a fresh shot of adrenaline through me. I picked up my pace and began to run…but I wasn’t fast enough. I soon felt someone grab onto my arm and I was yanked back. Before I could even think to scream, a hand was clamping over my mouth.

“Quiet you foolish girl.” The familiar voice hissed in my ear.

My racing heart instantly calmed upon hearing Kanetsugu’s voice and realizing it was he who was holding me. My back was pressed to his as he held me firmly against him. That was when I realized we were hiding behind a tree. I heard what sounded like footsteps passing us by.

We stood there in silence for what felt like forever before Kanetsugu was finally releasing me. “Are you alright?” He asked me, his tone surprisingly gentle.

I nodded. “Yeah…just…tired.” I replied.

“There’s a village nearby.” He said. “We’ll take shelter there for the night. Then in the morning, we’ll be able to start searching for everyone else.”

“Okay.” I agreed.

Kanetsugu was then taking me by the hand and leading me through the forest. Before we arrived in the village, Kanetsugu was removing his armor and hiding it carefully in the forest. “The villagers are wary of warriors.” He said. “We’ll have an easier time hiding out if they think we are refugees…which with the current state of your kimono won’t be hard to believe.”

I looked down at my once beautiful kimono to see it covered in dirt and debris, tears from my trek through the forest, and singed in places from the fires in the camp. I’m sure the rest of me matched the state of my kimono.

I just nodded, figuring it would be best to go along with whatever his plan was. I was honestly having a hard time finding words. I was tired, sore, and scared. I had come close to being grabbed by someone who would not treat me so well as a hostage as Kanetsugu and the others had.

By the time we reached the village, night had completely fallen. It was a small farming village and there appeared to be no inn. We found ourselves knocking on the door of one of the farm houses.A kindly old man and his wife answered the door, a lantern in hand.

“I’m sorry for knocking on your door and at such a late hour,” Kanetsugu began, “but we have been on the run for quite some time now and…”

There was a gasp from the old woman as she looked at us. “Dear, we must let them in. Look at these poor dears…especially the wife.” The old woman said.

The old man looked at his wife and nodded. “Of course, dear.” He agreed. He then turned to us, a kind smile on his face. “We’d be happy to give you food and shelter. We have a spare room.”

“Thank you.” Kanetsugu replied. “My wife and I appreciate it.”

Though I was in a state of shock and tiredness from the battle and the run, I was being pulled from that by a new shock…this old couple thought we were married?! And Kanetsugu wasn’t correcting them?!

The couple led us inside and to their spare room. They were then going about bringing in some fresh clothes for us as well as a large water basin filled with freshly warmed water. “We don’t have a bath house or anything, but this should be enough for you two.” The old woman said with a smile as she laid out towels.

“Thank you, that is very kind of you.” Kanetsugu said, bowing in gratitude.

“I’ll go fix something to eat while you two get cleaned up and take your time.” The old woman said. “I remember when we were newlyweds.” She was then giving a wink before she and her husband were leaving.

Once we were alone, I was looking over at Kanetsugu. “Wife?” I asked, looking at him in disbelief.

He shrugged. “It makes sense.” He said. “Besides, they just assumed and it is a good cover story.”

“But you didn’t correct them.” I pointed out. “And now��how are we supposed to get cleaned up and changed? They think..they think…”

Kanetsugu let out a sigh. “You can go first. I will keep my back to you.” He was then making a show of turning around to face the door.

“Okay…but by the time I’m finished the water will be cold.” I pointed out. “You should go first.”

“And have you deal with cold water?” Kanetsugu replied, letting out another sigh. “Fine. here.” 

The next thing I knew, we were both sitting next to the large basin, towels wrapped around us and our backs to each other. We each had a wash cloth in hand. Despite doing his best to make sure we were both afforded privacy, I could still feel my heart pounding and my face glowing bright red…honestly probably my entire body.

“Well now, you better hurry up if we don’t want the water to grow cold.” Kanetsugu said.

I could hear him dipping his cloth in the water. “R-right…” I replied, my voice cracking with embarrassment.

“If you don’t get to washing, I will have to wash you.” Kanetsugu threatened.

“N-no. No need for that.” I squeaked, reaching behind me to dunk the cloth into the water and then bringing it over my face and arms, washing away the grime and ick of the battle and my run through the forest.

The warm water did feel nice as I moved it over my skin and aching muscles…oh how I wished I could just dunk myself in a nice hot spring…but this sponge bath was enough for now. Of course… there was also the fact that I was HIGHLY aware of Kanetsugu behind me…and the fact that we were both naked save for small towels wrapped around us…part of me couldn’t help but to imagine taking a peak…I mean Kanetsugu was always covered with pretty much his face and fingers being the only exposed parts of his body.

“You had better not be thinking any inappropriate thoughts over there, foolish girl.” Kanetsugu warned me.

“Pfft…I-I was…not!” I lied. “I…I was just thinking…how embarrassing this is.”

Kanetsugu chuckled lightly. “Just finish up.”

We finished washing up in silence, the sounds of the water and the washcloths moving over our skin the only thing filling the room. It felt like forever before we were finally done and putting some clothes on.

Once we were dressed, Kanetsugu was looking at me. “Sit.” He ordered, gesturing to a spot in front of him.

“W-what…why?” I asked.

“Just sit.” He told me. “With your back to me.”

Confused, I followed his instructions.Soon, I felt his hands in my hair, fingers working through it. “W-what…”

“I am fixing your hair.” He replied. “We don’t have a comb, so my fingers are the next best thing.”

“O-o-okay…” I replied, feeling tingles running down my spine as his fingers gently combed through my hair. “Th-thank...you.”

“We can���t have you looking a mess when we go to join our hosts for dinner.” Kanetsugu replied.

“I suppose you’re right…”

Soon he had finished combing through my hair and we were heading out of the room to join the elderly couple currently giving us shelter in the main room off of their kitchen. The old woman was bringing out a tray of tea while her husband carried a tray filled with food. 

“Some nice warm stew and tea ought to help the both of you.” The old woman said as she and her husband sat the trays down.

“That sounds lovely.” I replied, feeling a bit better after getting cleaned up. “Thank you…and for all of the kindness.”

The old woman gave me a warm smile. “We are just glad to help.” She replied. “And I am glad to see you seem to be feeling a bit better.”

We were all soon digging into the food and sipping the tea. The warmth of the food suffused me down into my bones. It was soothing and comforting. “This is a god brew.” Kanetsugu commented. “Thank you.”

“And the stew is good.” I added.

“Thank you. I know it’s not much, but I am glad to be of help.” The old woman said. 

As we ate, I could feel Kanetsugu’s eyes on me. I felt a bit self-conscious and looked over at him. “Do I have something on my face?” I asked him.

“No.” He answered, simply.

The old woman chuckled. “Oh you two are a lovely couple.” She said. “It’s so good to see a young girl with such a caring husband.”

Kanetsugu and I both instantly looked away from each other, my cheeks reddening. If I was not mistaken I think his were too. Kanetsugu let out a cough.

“Dear, don’t embarrass them.” The old man said.

“What? Young love is so sweet.” She replied. “They remind me so much of us when we first wed.”

The old man gave her a kind smile and took her hand in his, bringing it to his lips to place a kiss on the back. You could clearly see the years of love and happiness the pair had shared by the way they looked at each other…that warmed me in a way no food or tea could. A natural smile came to my face as I looked at them.

After we finished eating, Kanetsugu and I went back to the room they had prepared for us. The tub was gone and now a fresh futon was laid out for us. “Make yourself comfortable.” Kanetsugu told me. “I’ll keep watch, just in case.”

“A…are you sure?” I asked.

“Yes, now get some rest.” Kanetsugu told me. “Or do you need me to make you into a caterpillar again?”

“N-no…I’m fine.” I replied, slipping into the futon and getting comfortable, pulling the cover up to my chin. Of course…I was finding myself having a hard time getting to sleep despite how exhausted I felt.

“I promise, you are safe.” Kanetsugu told me and I felt him settling down next to the futon. “I won’t allow anyone to hurt you.”

“I…I’m just…”

I soon felt my head being moved and the next thing I knew, my pillow had been replaced by Kanetsugu’s lap. “You need to rest.” He told me. I then felt his hand resting on my back as he began to massage his fingers in soothing circles…and then I was further surprised by the sound of a beautiful voice, singing a sweet lullaby. 

I looked up at Kanetsugu, my eyes wide with surprise. He stopped his singing. “I thought this might be a preferable way of getting you to sleep.” He told me. “Now settle in for the night.” He was then brushing a hand over my eyes to close them and resuming his singing.

I had to admit…his touch was rather comforting and his singing voice soothing. “Where did you learn…to sing lullabies like that?” I asked around a yawn.

“I used to care for my younger brother.” He answered. “Now stop fighting sleep like a child and go to sleep already.”

“Alright…” I agreed. “And…thank you.”

Kanetsugu resumed his singing once again, his hand still rubbing my back. I cracked my eyelids ever so slightly and afforded myself one last look at Kanetsugu…the look on his face as he looked down at me was so gentle…and as I drifted off to sleep..and I was reminded of the way the old man looked at his wife…and that was the last thought I had before the exhaustion caught up to me and sleep claimed me. His kind smile filled my dreams that night.

tags: @zulablaise @kisara-16 @selenacosmic

[yourlocaltrashpandaa]

Reckless

++

Genshin Impact one-shot

{aether x fem!reader}

A/n: this has been in my drafts for a while now it was unfinished until now 😈

++

"Ow! Damnit..." Aether grumbled as you placed a bandage on his forehead.

"Well, stop moving or it's going to hurt more." You scolded him as Aether pouted.

You and the blonde have been traveling companions for a while now and every now and then, Aether would venture out without you. Doing commissions, most of them involved getting rid of monsters. Said blonde would always return to your home when he's finished with bumps, bruises, him covered in dirt and sometimes his own blood.

Once he walked through your front door, you'd scold him like a disappointed mother but you were kind enough to treat his wounds mostly because you cared for him deeply more than he’d ever know.

“Seriously, you’re such a reckless boy sometimes, you know that!” You grumbled as you wrapped a bandage on his arm.

“I’m sorry, Y/n.” Aether said to you.

“Sorry ain’t going to cut it, blondie!” You yelled.

Aether flinched and looked off to the side not wanting to meet your glaring eyes. He honestly thought you were mad at him but that far from the truth. You were worried about him every time he’d leave and he’d come back with injuries.

You sighed, slouching a bit in the chair you were sitting in as you stared down at your lap as you fiddled with the white bandage roll in your hand. Aether’s golden eyes watched you, he could tell by your face, you seemed frustrated with him but you worried for him.

Aether frowned. “Y/n…” Aether said as he reached out to touch your shoulder.

“I’m going to put this away.” You said as you moved away from the blond to clean up the first aid supplies and rushed out the room.

Aether started to follow you, more because you’re upset and he wanted to apologize to you but Paimon pulled him back by his braid.

“Ow, hey! Paimon!” Aether yelped swatting at the fairy with his hand.

“Paimon thinks you should leave her alone for now. Y/n seems to be feed up with you.” Paimon said with a light smirk.

Aether scowled at her. “Shut it, Paimon. I didn’t need to feel worse then I already am.” Aether said.

Paimon frowned but than a idea popped into her head. “Aether, why don’t we something nice for Y/n. Maybe she’ll forgive you.” Paimon suggested.

Aether’s golden eyes widened as a smile appeared on his face. He perked up from his sulking state. Aether had make it up to you since you always worried and cared for him.

“Yeah. But, what do we do exactly?” Aether asked the fairy.

“Ooo! Paimon’s got an idea!” Paimon exclaimed and floated over to Aether to whisper into Aether’s ear of her idea.

Aether nodded as his eyes shimmered in agreement with a smile on his face. “That’s a great idea, Paimon. Y/n will love it, let’s get going!” Aether said.

“Paimon will lead the way!” Paimon said.

*time skip*

“Oh! This is for a friend?” Sara from Good Hunter asked.

Paimon and Aether both nodded. “That’s right,” Aether replied. “It’s a ‘thank you’ gift to her since she helps us whenever we need it.”

“It’s also an apology since the Traveler makes her worry all the time.” Paimon said.

Aether looked off to the side and small sigh. “Sure… that too.” He said quietly.

“I see. Well, I’ll have your order ready soon.” Sara said.

“Thanks, Sara.” Paimon said with a smile and a wave.

“Hey, we should go to the library to ask Miss Lisa about the book Y/n as been looking for.” Paimon said.

Aether nodded as the two set off to Knights of Favonius Headquarters to find Lisa.

After being greeted by some of the knights that were posted outside of the Headquarters, Aether and Paimon made their way into the library when they were greeted by the librarian, Lisa.

“Hello there, cutie and Paimon. What can do for you?” Lisa asked with smile.

“Hey, Lisa. And yes, we were wondering you had this book,” Aether handed Lisa a small slip of paper with the book title written on it. Lisa told it from the blonde and looked at it.

Lisa smiled. “Why yes, we do,” Lisa looked up from the paper and at Aether. “I just have to asked what you need it for.”

“Well, you see. It’s for a friend. You might know her,” Aether said.

“Aether wants to the book to give to Y/n.” Paimon said.

“I see. How cute~,” Lisa cooed. “Y/n would always come to the library looking for this book and it was always checked out but this time I held it for her. Take it to her for me, will you, cutie?” Lisa asked.

“Sure! Y/n will be so happy to receive it.” Aether said.

“Then let’s go! We still have to pick up the food from Good Hunter’s.” Paimon said.

“Right! Thank you, Miss Lisa.” Aether said as the two raced of back to Good Hunters.

Meanwhile, you were busy cleaning up your home and you didn’t even notice that the blond and his floating companion were gone yet you’re pretty used to that what you did know was he’d be back so soon.

“Hey, Y/n! We’re back!” Paimon exclaimed.

You rushed to you front down to seeing Aether holding a basket. You looked away from it pretending it wasn’t there. You looked at the blonde’s face, he did look injured and what’s with the basket.

“I didn’t know you guys left.” You replied.

“Oops, our bad. But, hey we got lunch.” Aether said.

“You did?” You asked.

“Yeah,” Aether scratched the back of his neck. “It’s more of an apology.”

Your eyes widened as Aether sheepishly smiled at you. This was out of the ordinary, you didn’t say anything as he continued.

“You’ve done so much for us and I make you worry over me when you really don’t have to be and for that I’m sorry.” Aether said.

You smiled at the ground as you walked over to the blonde pulling him in for a hug. Aether was good friend to you, you worry over him because you love this distance traveler with all your heart.

“Honestly, I should be the one to apologize,” You pulled away from him. “I should put more trust in you when you venture out. You have more experience than I do. But you can be a bit reckless at times and just want you to be careful.” You said putting the palm of your hand on his cheek.

Aether smiled, a light flush appeared on his face. He placed his hand on yours. “I know. I’ll remember that.” He said.

You both pulled away. “Let’s eat, you two! Paimon is starving!” Paimon exclaimed.

“Okay, but this food isn’t just for you, Paimon.” Aether said to his companion.

“Paimon knows, let’s just eat.” Paimon said.

Aether rolled his eyes, you giggled at the two banter.

“One more thing, Y/n,” You stopped when Aether held out a book to you. “Miss Lisa held on to this for you. She wanted me to give it to you.”

You gasped. “Thank you, Aether. I’ve been waiting for this book forever. I’ll be sure to give Lisa my thanks when I see next.” You said.

“I’ll go with you.” Aether said.

“Sure. Just no recklessness.” You scolded playfully.

“No promises.”

[augustinapril]

Jk jk!!! Can I request dad!steve teaching reader how to play baseball?? Incorporating the coach!steve that u were obsessed with a while back 🤭

this isn't the best and it makes me sad </3 I didn't know where to go with it. :((

wc: 615

warnings: clumsy!reader so mentions of bruises on readers legs due to said clumsiness, an probably inaccurate explanation of baseball

⋆ ☄︎. 

Sam, the sweetest little boy in the world, knew exactly how to compel you into doing what he wanted. You weren’t sure if he was conscious of how impossible it was to say no when he gave what you called his puppy eyes.

His incredible persuasiveness, whether intentional or not, is exactly what lead you here; converse dusted with dirt, Steve at your side, his voice in your ear as he informed you of what to do, and Sam sitting crisscrossed in the grass a few feet away.

You were starting to think this was a mistake, slightly embarrassed with yourself. You didn’t like the thought of messing up in front of either of them.

“You have to make sure you’re standing right,” Steve said, like it was something you knew how to do without anxiety nipping at your heals.

How do you know you’re standing right? 

“It’s a lot easier than it sounds, sweetheart. All you have to do is turn yourself, yeah like that, and make sure your legs aren’t super close together.” He fixed your stance, his hands warm against your hips as he directed you in the direction you needed to be. 

“So, I just hit the ball and make a run for it?” 

Steve chuckled, and you could feel yourself heat up. “I wish it was that simple. My job as a coach would be much easier than it is. There is more to it than that.”

“Well, what exactly is the point of the game?” You asked then cringed at how condescending you probably sounded, jumping to fix yourself. “Or what’s the goal of the game?"

Steve immediately jumped into an explanation, telling you about how both teams compete to get more points each run than the other.

There was a total of 9 innings, two halves to each one where the teams would switch places, and went through the bare-basic steps of what the teams do during those innings.

It was a little confusing, but you think you understood most of it. You hoped you did, at least.

“I’m not so sure i’d fair well in an actual game of baseball," you told him honestly. "I wouldn't be able to run to a base without tripping over my feet."  There was a few more reasons, but this was the main one. The bruises scattered on your legs would be evidence of it.

“You are a bit of a clutz,” Steve light heartedly teased. He’d witnessed some of the many times you’ve accidentally walked into the corners of tables, your bed frame, and the counters of your small kitchen.

He’s contemplated baby proofing your apartment to reduce the amount of bruises you get each month, and he’s jokingly brought it up to you a time or two, though he wasn’t sure he meant it entirely as a joke. 

"You're not supposed to agree with me," You feigned being offended. He just smiled and kissed your temple.

"You know I love your clumsiness."

Sam jumped in, "I don't. Y/n gets hurt too much."

You turned to Steve, patting his shoulder. "Seems like you're the only one who enjoys it. Do you have a thing for seeing me walk into corners?"

Steve shoots his head, denying your statement. "What? No of course not. It's just a little funny, is all."

You gasped. "I cant believe you'd enjoy me getting hurt so much," You turned to Sam, gesturing your head in Steve's direction. "You hearing this, Sam?"

"Daddy's weird."

You gave the biggest smile, nodding in agreement. "He's very weird."

"Hey! I'm trying to teach you baseball and this is how you treat me?" You only shrugged in response, making Steve scoff. "Unbelievable."

⋆ ☄︎. 

reblogs > likes <3

[noweakergirl]

I need to talk about wuthering heights hehehe... I can't stop thinking about it!!! I was shocked out of my body when Hindley dropped Hareton from the top of the stairs and then even worse Heathcliff saved him but then regretted it jdgszusjshssjjssjsjsjs and also poor Nelly, Hareton didn't remember her at all after she left :( Also I was initially feeling very sad about Linton cause of how Heathcliff was not really nice to him but then he was too selfish tbh. Do you think Edgar would have had Catherine run away with Nelly if he found that she was kidnapped and forcefully married to Linton? Also Joseph was sooooooo annoying I especially liked it when Catherine scared him in the start that yes I'm a witch. Like she is a legend. Her and Hareton sjdghsisusjsnshshsnsshzhzysh!!!! Throughout the book I was feeling so saaaaaad about Hareton like he didn't deserve any of what he faced!! And what's worse that he was intelligent enough to see how far behind he was others cause of education and for Catherine to be the one to tease him honestly broke my heart jxhdhshshsshsh Edgar was tooooo good!! And Hareton did I mention that I absolutely love him? He was probably so conflicted when everything was happening cause he liked Cathy and also we can see he had a sense of good and right cause he would defend her but also he thought good of Heathcliff so he couldn't really go against him (or am I being delusional here? We don't get his pov 😭) dheuwhshsshwjwjw I CAN'T STOP THINKING ABOUT THIS BOOK AHHH!!!! What adaptation should I watch? I have no idea. Heathcliff and Catherine 1 as characters were soooooooooo interesting. Isabella what a legend she is!! Attacking Heathcliff with a knife, ensuring he cannot use her to inflict pain on Edgar and then she ran away from him!!! I LOVED HER. Ok that's quite big of a rant 🙈🙈🙈

I TOTALLY GET WHAT YOU MEAN ABOUT HARETON, HE IS THE BEST! Poor boy was treated like dirt since the day he was born but I am SO HAPPY he got the ending he deserved. Even though Cathy 1 and Heathcliff are iconic, the second generation was my favorite. I adored both Catherine and Hareton and shipped them super hard ajddkdk. The way she taught him to read!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MY HEART <333333333 and he tried to be better for her!!!!!!!! Despite everything and his cruel life, he tried his best to be worthy of her love aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. 🤎🤎🤎 Them breaking generational curse at the end by falling in love and (hopefully) leading a happy life!

(unrelated by why do I always think of Jess from Gilmore Girls when I think of Hareton, help)

Oh god, I get shivers every time I remember how Heathcliff forcefully married Catherin to Linton... He literally locked her up, like BRO. Heathcliff was devil for real, awful and horrible, but somehow I still can't bring myself to fully hate him. I think he's very fascinating as a character which is why he stays in your memory.

And I agree on Edgar, he was very sweet! <3 Isabella too, YEEES GIRL SHOW HIM TEETH <3

Btw, I imagine Joseph as Argus Filch from Harry Potter ajdjdksk.

"I can't stop thinking about this book" girl, same, because every time it rains and it's all gloomy and misty outside I start acting like I am Catherine myself. Oh, and about adaptation I think the most famous one (and the most beloved one) is the movie from 1992. I don't think I have ever seen any WH movie from start to finish now that I think of it which is sad cause I adore the book, so if you ever come across any version you think is cool, please let me know!

P. S. Now that you have read the book, listen to this and be as dramatic as possible while listening to it ;))

[secretswiftymarvelfan]

For this or that

Enemies to Lovers or Childhood Sweethearts with Ransom

Thank you for sending in an ask!

I’ve always loved the idea that as a child Ransom was super sweet and it was only as he got older and surrounded himself with the wrong kind of people that he became a bit of a prick so it has to be Childhood Sweethearts

The ultimatum - Ransom Drysdale x Reader

Summary: When Harlan gives Ransom an ultimatum which leads him back to you

Warnings: Fluff! Not edited at all! Language!

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Masterlist

Your family had been friends with the Thrombeys for years, your grandfather being childhood friends with Harlan

Despite very similar upbringings the two families couldn’t be more different

In many ways Harlan hoped that his children and grandchildren would pick a few things up from your family but it never happened

That was until you met Ransom

The two of your were fast friends and thick as thieves, often spending hours running around the backyard together

Linda would always screech whenever you both came back inside red faced and covered in dirt but Harlan would always tell her “let the kids be kids”

Unfortunately as you both grew older you found new friends and slowly began to grow apart

You found more friends similar to yourself and Ransom found friends that honestly were the worst kind of friends he could find

You reconnected briefly while both at university and you even nearly spent the night together but when you realised the kind of person Ransom had become you left and never spoke to him again

That was until Harlan gave Ransom an ultimatum, get a real job or lose your inheritance.

Harlan had been kind though, he’d given Ransom a list of jobs offers he could take

When Ransom saw your name and company on the list he instantly picked that one thinking he’d get an easy ride

But that definitely wasn’t the case, you treated him no differently despite the fact you were childhood friends and you still harboured a secret crush on him

It caught Ransom off guard, especially when you told him some hard truths, and he found himself wanting to prove you wrong

He became the perfect employee, he brought coffees in for everyone and even pitched a few ideas

Slowly he actually began to enjoy working, he became passionate in his project

But when the staff party rolled around you had expected him to revert back to his playboy ways but he didn’t, he spent the evening with you and it was just like old times

After a few to many drinks Ransom’s lips became loose and he admitted that you were right about everything you said about him and that he was sorry and that he was grateful you gave him a second chance

“Well no matter how much of a prick you are, I still know the sweet version of you is in there somewhere and I owed it to him to give you a chance”

“Thank you, you know that version of me had a pretty big crush on you as a kid” Ransom admits as he takes another swig of scotch

“And what about now?” You ask trying not to get your hopes up

“The word crush doesn’t even cover it” he admits smiling over at you.

Needless to say the two of you ended up finishing the night together and continued to for the rest of your lives

Sharing is caring so reblog if you enjoyed this! And leave a comment to really make my day!

Send me a this or that!

Masterlist

I don’t have a taglist but follow @secretswiftymarvelfanlibrary and turn on post notifications to be kept up go date!

[lichenaday]

Tips for Lichen Foraging

If you enjoy using lichens for dying, crafting, decoration, perfumes, etc., or you think you want to start, here are my tips for going out there and collecting these funky little friends in a safe manner.

1. ALWAYS harvest ethically! This means collecting lichens that are not longer in situations where they can thrive (detached from their substrate, in roadways/walkways, are likely to be destroyed, etc.), only collection lichens that are abundant and thriving, and leaving 9/10 of the lichens in any given area undisturbed.

2. Location: I find urban locations to be ideal for harvesting due to the large amount of material that can be scavenged from debris piles, roadways, walkways, woodpiles, and other areas that are not ideal for lichen growth, and places where the lichen and/or its substrate are going to be destroyed/thrown away. I often scavenge around areas where trees are being trimmed back/removed ,but do this safely, legally (without trespassing) and if possible, with consent to do so. I happen to live right by a few parks subject to regular tree trimming, as well as a commercial conifer wood that is regularly logged. But honestly, the best locations I have found? Parking lots. Yep, those trees in the grassy median of parking lots drop a lot of lichen, and the smooth roadway surface and gutters make the lichens there really easy to see.

3. Season: Winter is the best time of year to look for lichens! There is less foliage to pick through, and the bright color of the lichens stands out better against snow/dead leaves.

4. Identification: Make sure you can identify every species you collect en masse. There are lots of species that are abundant in urban areas that are easy to identify, and I recommend you start with those. Also, look online for local field guides for lichens in your region--you'll be amazed what you can find! And if you need help with identification, you can post pictures to sites like iNaturalist and GBIF and Mushroomobserver, where the community can help with ID.

5. Check for critters! Many lichens and their substrates harbor invertebrates, so try to disturb as little as possible when foraging, and leave behind as much dirt/rock/branches/bark/moss/etc. as you can. When I get my lichens home, I "process" them as soon as possible, checking them for bugs and removing other biological material so that I can return them to the outside right away. Better for you, and better for the environment.

6. Lichen foraging is a hobby, not a business. Lichens are slow growing, sensitive, and in peril in many regions. Relying on lichens for a business can often lead to overexploitation. So have fun, be safe, and treat lichens and the natural world with respect and kindness.

I am sure I am forgetting something, but I am happy to try and answer any questions anyone might have about lichen foraging/harvesting. For more tips on ethical and safe harvesting, I recommend Lichen Dyes: The New Source Book by Karen Diadick Casselman, which is where most of these tips came from.

[iamthunderhearmehowl]

BG3 Headcannon: Halsin's Daughter

Okay - like I said I was going to continue to work on this because it brings me joy. It maaaaay not be completely accurate to DND lore - but shit I'm trying my hardest (it's all new to me - also this is just for funsies.)

original head cannon post for this can be found here: https://iamthunderhearmehowl.tumblr.com/tagged/bg3-headcannons

Some things that came to mind: (NOTE: she is an adult in these darker themed cannons)

Per previous post; she is a druid, kind of. There's a twist. She believes that nature is choas, it's unrelenting, brutal/harsh. Nature is about survival - survive first and always; thriving is a luxary that few can afford. This more than likely comes from her being half drow and wood elf: she had to survive. Being an illigetimate bastard child of drow nobility and their slave; she was treated like dirt and frowned upon. Her mother used her has a house servant and a bartering peice. Had she been born a boy she would have probably sacrificed the babe (apparently male drow are on the bottom of the totem pole) - but since she is the daughter Halsin, the man whom was beautiful enough to be held captive and used - her mother saw her as a novelty and bartering peice. Guests needed entertainment for the night? Send in the bastard child. Oh noooo a guest spilt their drink? Send the bastard child. Oh you're feeling angry and want to fight something?? SEND THE BASTARD CHILD.

I don't think they would tell her exactly who her father is other than the large wood elf who could change into a bear and was pretty handsome.

I also want to add that - again - she is just as beautiful as her father IF NOT MORE. She has these beautiful doe eyes (the same color as Halsin's) and a kindness in her face.

When her mother married off her half sister to unite houses - she sent her off with her by force to be used as her brother in law's play thing. She was part of the deal. She knew she would be beaten everyday, tortured, etc. She had to leave, even if she died trying.

When she finally escaped the underdark she ran as far as she could - straight to baulder's gate where she ends up meeting Mol and working for The Guild. There, she honed her skill: mercenary work. Her specialty. It was easy for her as she could change into different beasts - they couldn't pinpoint a person.

EX: Oh Larry?? Yeah he went camping and got fucked up by a bear. He died of course.

She's not proud of all she's done, but again - Survive first; thrive later.

At some point she does begin to question who her father is. She begins digging around and getting info; leading her back to the land that was once shadows.

The first place she heads to is Last Light Inn; she honestly just wanted a bath and a warm bed after all the traveling. She is sitting at the bar having a drink when she notices a wood elf who is. . .quite large.

She obviously does not run up and say "Hi pops" oh no no no she would be concened that he would hate her just as much as her mother. Not to mention - there aren't many people who are fond of drows.

Halsin notices her as well - he can't quite put his finger on it but there's something familar about her

Okay so that's all I have right now. :) I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did and again - This is for funsies so it's not going to be completely accurate to DND lore or whatever.

NOTE: Also if there is anyone who is willing to have some fun RPing this, I am so down. I will make a discord and everything.

[frostbeees]

like she wants to try me on

2023 wrappedmas day two • song: silk chiffon by MUNA, Phoebe Bridgers

ao3 · masterpost

Seamus always assumed she’d have to get over Gavin. Over her not-so-little crush on her best friend. She figured Gavin would eventually find some other girl or guy to bring home and she’d be left behind, still holding her feelings inside because no way in hell was she ever going to admit them to Gavin. She’d rather die, honestly. Gavin had never shown anything but friendly feelings towards her, even if they were both on the touchy, handsy, cuddle up together, hug longer than necessary, and occasionally swap drunken kisses type of friends. That's just how friends are, in her opinion, even if Gavin is the only friend she's like that with.

What Seamus didn’t assume is that one sweltering summer evening she’d be UNDER Gavin, hands buried in the soft, tight curls on top of Gavin’s head while Gavin’s mouth was–

But how they got to this point is a different story. 

~~~

They had been out basically just killing time in town all day, rollerblading up and down familiar palm-tree-lined streets and repeatedly having near accidents with tourists who couldn’t keep their eyes forward. The day was hot and humid, a typical mid-July Florida weekday and they had just ducked inside a corner store to avoid the daily rain shower, flipflops making obnoxious sounds against the shiny tile as they roamed the aisles with their skates under their arms.

Seamus was happy to just follow Gavin around for the day. It wasn’t like they had anything better to do. But Gavin turned on her halfway down the aisle of dog toys and treats, beach equipment, marked-down Fourth of July garb, and baby formula.

“Hey,” Gavin flashed her sharkiest smile and Seamus just knew she meant trouble with it. “How much do you trust me?”

And that’s the question, isn’t it? Seamus trusts Gavin with her whole heart, to hold it, to break it, to set it free. She trusts her enough to follow her from their youth field hockey league to a travel league to the high school team to Ann Arbor where they’ve both committed to play in the fall. She’s trusted Gavin since they were four years old and she knew what it meant. 

“With my life,” Seamus shoots back, matching Gavin’s energy. 

Gavin holds out her hand and Seamus takes it without a thought, letting Gavin tug her down the aisle and back out the door into the rain. They make quick work of switching back from their sandals to their blades and then they’re off, Gavin’s fingers intertwined with her own as she pulls Seamus with her. 

Seamus has an inkling of an idea of where Gavin is leading them. There was this baseball park that they used to frequent as kids that now sits unused and basically abandoned. It’s where a lot of their friends would go after dark to smoke and drink and just exist away from the eyes of watchful parents. It’s where Seamus first realized that maybe she liked Gavin as more than a friend, when, at fourteen, she watched Gavin kiss one of their girl friends during a game of spin the bottle and felt intense jealousy bubble up inside her.

Sure enough, Gavin turns down the street just past the diner that leads back to the park. They’re drenched at this point, despite the rain being light, and when they reach the dirt paths that connect the road to the ballparks and outbuildings they both abandon their blades and trudge barefoot through the soaked grass. Gavin leads them towards one of the dugouts so they’re mostly sheltered from the rain and they sit in silence for a few minutes as they catch their breath. 

Seamus can’t help but start thinking about how this is probably the last time they’ll get to do this. It won’t be long until they’re packing up Gavin’s beater car that she insists they drive all the way up to Michigan. And then after that, everything’s going to change. They’re going to share a dorm but they’re only in a few overlapping classes. And, yeah, they’ll have field hockey but Seamus just knows that Gavin’s going to go all in on getting involved in campus life and that’s just not Seamus’ scene unless she’s being dragged along by Gavin but who wants to be weighed down with their childhood best friend when they could be out making new friends and finding new people to make out with at crowded parties. And there won’t even be endless miles of sandy beaches to escape to when she’s feeling ungrounded. 

She’s dreading leaving this bubble they have here, despite how excited she is. 

“Tell me again, Gavo, how close is Ann Arbor to Detroit?” Seamus asks even though they’ve talked about this a million times. “How far are we gonna have to drive to get to water?”

Gavin grabs her hand, smushes her fingers together to keep it mitten-shaped, and presses her finger into the fleshy spot just left of her thumb.

“This is Ann Arbor,” Gavin slides her finger over to the edge of the base of Seamus’ thumb, “and this is Detroit.”

Seamus nods. 

“But there are lakes everywhere. Big ones. You won’t even miss the ocean one bit. The Hugheses already said we’re invited to their lakehouse any time so all you gotta do is say the word and we’ll go.”

It’s a conversation they’ve had a hundred times at this point, that started from the day Gavin first brought up the idea of leaving home to play field hockey. And it’s a ploy, to keep Gavin talking about home and their life together. 

Seamus expects Gavin to drop her hand after that but instead, she links their fingers together again, resting their hands on Seamus’ thigh. They sit like that, quiet, just listening to the raindrops hit the wood roof until Gavin breaks the silence. 

“Hey Shea,” she whispers.

Seamus grunts an acknowledgment. 

“Remember all the times we used to come here after school? The parties?”

“Of course, Gavo.”

“How come you never tried to get me in spin the bottle?”

Seamus ignores her own shock at the question to look at Gavin. Gavin’s not looking back at her. She’s looking down at the ground under her dangling feet and Seamus wants to scream because she never sees Gavin look so vulnerable, so shy, so– worried that Seamus is the one who’s about to do the heart breaking. 

“That’s not how the game works?” Seamus poses it as a question.

“Oh fuck off,” Gavin says gently, with a huff of a laugh. “You know that Riley and Sammi both knew how to get the bottle to land on whoever they wanted. It was easy.”

“I didn’t want you to tell me no,” she admits honestly. 

“That’s not how the game works,” Gavin parrots back the answer and grins up at Seamus, finally looking up from the ground beneath them. “Plus, I’d never tell you no.”

Seamus can’t think of anything to respond with but thankfully it doesn’t matter. Gavin’s closing the distance between them, pulling Seamus closer by her shoulder with her free hand. She waits a moment like she’s trying to give Seamus the chance to say no but Seamus nods her head and then Gavin is crashing their mouths together. It’s a rough kiss, more teeth than soft lips but Seamus doesn’t want it to end. 

Unfortunately, it does, as Gavin pulls back, a small string of spit connecting their lips and then breaking between them. 

“Wanted to get that out of the way before I cracked in our dorm room and pinned you against a closet.”

“Gavin!” Seamus whacks her on the chest, harder than she means to. 

“Want to do more, too.” And the shark smile is back as Gavin leans back towards Seamus’ body, pushing her down against the cracked wood of the bench, pinning her in place. “Wanna do everything with you.”

[imminent-danger-came]

Your analysis is delicious and thank you for enabling my bitching. We are holding hands.

Your point about the samadhi fire is so right! Like if Red Son got it, it would have to be a completely different arc, everything would have to change. Unrelated but I think Mei, MK, and Red Son all simultaneously being foils of each other is very interesting

TBH I could go on for even more paragraphs about my many problems with how Mei's treated by the fandom so here's some petty complaints I left out of the first ask:

Her getting hypersexualised in a lot of fanart

Her struggles with the samadhi fire only getting used as angst-fuel for other characters and never for herself

Fans only ever addressing misogyny when it's about someone disliking a ship shes in.

She gets compared to Willow from TOH like a lot? I don't know why???

(this one is hyperspecific and very petty) Multiple Youtube vids about LMK that only bring up Mei to talk about how the ship her with Red Son (while making fun of other ships simultaneously for sooome reason...)

girl is canonically into MCR. thats not a complaint i just dont see people talk about it

and thats not even going into how the fandom treats female villains :P

Anyways Mei deserves a gun and LBD and Spider Queen deserve the world

Mei, MK, and Red Son all simultaneously being foils of each other is SUPER interesting. I just talked about Mei and MK as well as Mei and Red Son parallels, and like it SLAPS. I should delve into MK and Red Son parallels, but that's for another time.

On the topic of Mei being compared to Willow, I think it's because they're both green girl characters who are considered "tough"? It's a very vague archetype—but, I think fandom in general likes to put characters into these nebulous categories. Each character gets sanded down to like 3 base traits and everyone calls it good. It's genuinely maddening.

And personally, I don't really ship anyone in LMK (excluding Freenoodles), so the amount of ship art I see and the way ships predominate is very off-putting for me. I think that's mainly because none of the actual show really focuses on romantic relationships (one of it's virtues, I'm an MK is aroace truther), but to each their own. Shipping is super fun, and I totally get it. However, when it gets to the point where no other relationships/dynamics are really focused on, especially on a show so focused on friendship, it just feels off. It feels even MORE off when the only time you discuss the main female lead is to ship her with Red Son.

AND LOL THE FEMALE VILLAINS. MY POOR GIRLS. I don't think I've ever come across a post about Spider Queen (though her henchmans get a lot of love), and really it's a shame. That girl was doomed by the narrative, and BOY was she doomed by the narrative with MK. Granted she's been dead for 2 seasons, but I STILL see Sandy and Huntsman art, so idk. It honestly feels like the misogyny.

Lady Bone Demon and I are best friends and I love her so much. Truly one of the most villains of all time. "No staff and no backup—so, your plan is to fist fight a child?" OH MY GOD SHE'S SO ICONIC. That AND she has fucked up parallels to MK (sorry my boy foils just about every character in this show, he's a reflection), what is there not to love?

She TRIED to go about helping the world the "right" way, attempting to lead someone with real power to be better (as shown in the 3x11 flashback, but on god that scene parallels her whole relationship with spider queen), and IT DIDN'T WORK. So then she tried to "help" the world by starting with a clean slate, and that didn't work. And then you realize that she was doomed by the narrative just as much as anyone else. I'm fucking obsessed with her. Seriously, the "to pain" scene has been in my head for 5 straight months. I'll never stop yelling about it.

I've been listening to Lady Hell by Dirt Poor Robins on repeat thinking about LBD, and I can't help but rotate her in my mind. She captivates me.

[maria-rayro]

HALF-CAT CHARLIE

Cat-man Charlie, who looks like an ordinary human, but he has cat ears and a tail that hilariously give away all his emotions and feelings.

Kate and Jamie's constant banter. Like " what, you want us to scratch your ear now?" when he says he was right and this place really is a gold mine. Or "kitty kitty kitty" when they want him to come up to them. It drives Charlie crazy ( but honestly, he wouldn't mind being scratched behind the ears).

Jamie once bought a laser pointer and started annoying Charles with it. He saved face and restraint, but actually he really wanted to hit that red dot. Just well you know. Instincts.

Sleeps a lot. Mostly during breaks from work, right on the couch or at his desk. Sometimes curled up in a ball (Jamie has a few pictures of this, which she calls a dirt on Charles).

"When the cat's away, the mice will play." "SHUT UP CHARLIE."

"There's a dead cat on the line." "OH SHUT UP JAMIE."

No "I'm as healthy as a butcher's dog." He's not a dog.

When he tries to find cigarettes while experiencing withdrawal, he wags his tail grudgingly and tensely (Erin tries not to laugh. She tries)

He eavesdrops on everyone from a much safer distance because he has good hearing. He also does it often, and twirls his ears adorably while doing so. When the crew notices that he's been eavesdropping on one of them, they say "curiosity killed the cat, Charlie, haven't you ever heard about that?"

Left alone at dinner, he is a little frustrated, staring at his glass of wine for a long time, and then he pushes it irritably off the table.

When he hears something unpleasant being said about him, he presses his ears to his head, though he tries to pretend that he doesn't care.

When he confronts the maniac, he, too, presses his ears and looks at him with big, pitiful cat eyes.

He scratches at the door as he begs to be let out of the gas room.

He gets out of the fire, but his fur on his tail is a little burnt, and that makes him sad.

By the way, he does sneak onto other people's property through a window a lot.

He does climb over the fence almost in a flash when Connie runs at him. And then he teases him by taunting him. You know. Just like in canon, it doesn't really change much here.

If the group decides to accuse him of being complicit, he'll start meowing pitifully, begging to be set free. Mark quickly takes pity and is ready to free him, but Erin insistently takes cameraman inside the lighthouse, asking him not to fall for the cat's manipulation.

By dawn, he becomes a wet, sad cat trying to shake water out of his ears. After the stress he's been through, he'll obviously need to sleep for about 24 hours and lick his wounds.

"If cats really do have nine lives, I've lost about four of them today" "The other four you lost in Topeka, so be careful now, Charlie" " YOU WILL REALLY CONTINUE TO REMIND ME ABOUT TOPEKA AFTER THIS???"

Bonus: (outside of the canon story, or if the night at Du'Met's castle would have gone a little differently)

Perhaps, considering that Charlie is slightly self-conscious about his nature, Granthem would have tried to play on that somehow? Mock him? Like a red laser pointer light randomly appears in the basement, leading Charles into a trap. Or some cat toys lying around the house.

Granthem traps him and pushes against the wall, and Charlie meows pitifully. Du'Met is at a loss.

If Granthem decides to keep Charles, he will treat him like a cat. He'll scratch his ear, stroke his back, that sort of stuff. Lonnit will eventually figure out how he can manipulate a man and made a deal with his self-esteem, and at some point, sitting by his lap while he works, Charlie will start rubbing his cheek against his legs.

[erudianokabe]

Monsters

My father often told me that I shouldn’t be here. 

I can still remember the look of disappointment on his face when he realized what I had been striving so hard to achieve. As someone who served in the military, my father knew the hell that followed where war was concerned. A nation like Marley was one that thrived during battles. Conquest was something that was always on their mind. Defending and capturing territories was hardly anyone’s idea of child’s play, but for Marley, having monstrous weapons in the form of Titans, it might as well be the case. 

He knew the perils of being a soldier. He knew the hardships and the trauma that came with it. Most of the time, he believed that these were things that I took lightly. After all, what did I know? I was just a girl who wanted to follow a dream that seemed too far-fetched to even… well… dream about. 

It’s not as if I was following in my father’s footsteps, and it’s not as if I truly wanted to be a soldier in the first place. Perhaps if I’ve never happened upon that one boy from years ago, I’d never find myself here. In fact, now that I think about it, there were so many paths that I could have taken if all I wanted was to help people. 

For one, there’s always a shortage of doctors in this place. When I say this place, what I meant is the Internment Zone. The “pure bred” people of this nation considered the inhabitants of the Internment Zone menaces. They were treated so poorly, as if they were plague incarnate. Shunned upon by society, these people— the Eldians, were nothing more than swine to many. Monsters and devils is what the people of Marley would call them… something that I never really understood. In fact, they looked pretty normal to me. Without the armband that they were forced to wear as a form of label, I feel like no one would have been able to tell the difference. 

They were good people in my opinion, but one person’s thoughts and views hardly mattered in a society that was teeming with both fear and disdain. 

When I think about what my own people do to these poor men and women, I begin to wonder just who the real monsters truly were. 

Marleyans treat the Eldians like cattle… no, even worse than that. At least cattle were desired by most for their meat; prized for the sustenance that they can provide to the body. The Eldians… despite their use in terms of protecting a nation that would readily spit at them and leave them for dead, were used as weapons and were expected to die for the nation’s cause… the very nation that would abandon them given the chance. 

But Marley can’t. 

Despite their hate and their fear, they needed these people to fight their wars. Eldian children were trained and conditioned to inherit specialized titans in order to bring Marley victory. The chosen would be elevated to the status of Honorary Marleyan, a title only in name… the treatment, however? Still the same. Those who were found with crimes were sentenced to a fate worse than death… forced to become monsters that they didn’t even want to be in the first place. Others, of course, were conscripted for the part in hopes of better treatments… and where does that lead them? An untimely demise if one was luck, or a lifetime of trauma if anyone survived to live another day. 

It was tough being an Eldian in the nation of Marley… you were less than the dirt that everyone walked upon. 

It’s disgusting… this place… the people…

Everyone here were monsters; some worse than the rest. 

I’m one of them, apparently. I’m not going to think of myself like I’m some kind of saint… after all, I’m in charge of training the children that would become the next generation titan shifters. I’m no better than anyone even if I want to be. But still, at the very least, I can do something to help them out. I want to understand the people who mine, considered evil. 

And honestly… they were hardly the offspring of the devil. They were no different from the children that played along the streets of Marley’s capital… Well, I hope that at least, others saw it that way too. 

But of course they didn’t. 

The military only saw these children as weapons, expendable resources that needed to be replenished after a certain amount of time. 

It was horrible.

I feel like a monster… and since I’m helping mold them to be weapons, I probably am one as well. But at the very least, if they were considered devils, then I should be too…

…because deep down inside, we’re all the same… aren’t we? 

If my father could see me now, I hope that he’ll be proud of the monster that I’ve become. 

[pelinalwhitestraken]

otome isekais are so awful to be a fan of because while they’re catered to women and are usually written by women they’re also casually the most misogynistic pieces of writing ever. like seriously.

every woman is either your stereotypical BFF to female lead with no defining personality or they’re an evil homewrecking woman who wants to steal female leads man with no other motivation but being jealous or just cartoonishly evil. every single one is like this. its so bad that every comment on an otome isekai manhwa is usually talking about random side female character #23 and how they’re plotting to do their devious work once again of stealing the male lead.

it’s almost shocking how badly women who are considered enemies are treated within this genre. ive seen torture, exile, murder, suicide, socially outcasted, and even rape at some point, used as punishment towards female leads who honestly didn’t do that much in the first place. while not exactly an isekai, the first character i think of is Rashta from Remarried Empress. Rashta is a character who is born as a slave, using the emperor and their sexual/romantic relationship as a way of staying out of slavery. thats the basis of it anyways. seems like a reasonable thing to do for anyone in that position. and while she does do things that are morally wrong, it seems almost shocking to me that her punishment is her being locked into a room and forced to suicide, while the man who put her in that position in the first place gets a decent ending for how awful of a human being he was. not only does it feel misogynistic, but also extremely inconsiderate of power dynamics and social classes (hence why this genre gets accused of classism quite a bit as well lol)

other icky things to me is that female leads that are considered overpowered girlbosses are never actually stronger than the male lead. male lead usually has a position of power over female lead as well. like, somehow the comics want you to feel like our female lead is in control and full of agency, she never actually attains that. shes still bound to her family, her house, and now her husband. and she never grows outside of that either. her development of her as a character starts when she meets the male lead and only grows within that relationship. she doesnt exist outside the male lead at allllll and its so bothersome. her plot revolves around him, her motivations and desires somehow always revolve around the male lead, and her relationships revolve around him too. she has to skip town because the male lead will chop her head off! so she leaves, but now he’s here again! her desire now lies within wanting to believe in this change and belonging to the male lead. its just garbage.

while talking about male leads— how male leads are usually just as dirt baggy as the other cartoonishly evil obstacle, the female leads ex, (common trope within these comics) the story paints them in a good light just because theyre only kind to the female lead. and why? its not because of anything interesting, its usually just because shes his wife, his possession. sure, you can argue that its just a common romance trope of possessiveness, but is it not bonkers to you that favorable male leads are quite literally psychopaths with no redeeming qualities besides the fact that they claim possession over female leads? the common romance idea of a man centering his life around you is not a bad thing, but it feels icky whenever its portrayed as something that would have only happened BECAUSE they entered that relationship and the male lead has effectively “owned” the female lead at this point in the story. think about the trope in which 2 estranged spouses (forced marriage trope, etc.,) are slowly falling in love with one another, another common trope within that is the one in which the male lead experiences frustration when the female lead explores other romantic options/receives the attention of other men. it isn’t usually because they have suddenly grown fond of each other— no, it’s because the female lead, in his eyes, belongs to him as an object less than a genuine person.

but its not to say that OI as a whole is misogynistic garbage. because while it is, at this particular moment, it can be subjected to change. its not like they can keep doing the same trick of including the same 500 tropes into their books forever. and a lot of OI is changing and driving this relatively new genre into the right direction. we see a lot of OI centered around our female lead that is NOT focused on the ML, and is partially seen as an afterthought until he is introduced mid-ish part of the story. a prime and strong example of this would be “I’ll Be The Matriarch Of This Life” or whatever the actual title is. the female lead is someone memorable. she has a PERSONALITY that goes beyond fitting into the same 5 archetypes of female leads. she cares about her family, her dynamics with the world around her is interesting as she grows and faces new challenges. shes always growing whether or not the male lead is there because she genuinely has a life without him or not. sure, it has tropes, but its not bad at all. i quite enjoy OI as a guilty pleasure, but man if it isnt a reflection of how drastically fucked up our media is then we need to think a bit harder. even things made for us are so deeply rooted in patriarchal values !! i legit cannot enjoy half this shit even tho its supposed to be for me yk!!!