#and I admire genuine knowledge and passion… about anything

[033h]

I can’t help but love men who dress well however I fear this will always be my greatest downfall. Need a guy who dresses like shit next probably.

[princesajellyfish]

Taste me

Rating: Mature (18+ No Minors allowed)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Characters: Laios Touden Content: Smut, Cunnilingus, Fingering, Semi-Public Sex Word count: 3805 Reader has a pussy and and wears a skirt. Everything else is up to interpretation. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Laios, you're so special to me.”

Currently you lay on the hard and rocky floor of the dungeon. Pebbles and sharp edges poked your soft flesh and the back of your head started to ache from being pushed against its hard surface. But how could you possibly pay attention to that when you have the world's most handsome explorer in between your thighs. If you would've known that this is how confessing would've turned out you would've done so much much sooner. 

Laios and you had shared mutual attraction for each other for sometime now. You, of course, noticed it much earlier than Laios ever could've. He was such a cutie, even though he was doing his best to hide his affections towards you it was impossible for you not to notice his longing gazes at night by the fire, or the extra portions of food that he would put aside for you. You would have been a fool not to notice any sooner. 

Knowing Laios for as long as you have you knew that approaching the subject subtly was not going to work out with Laios. When it came to romance, it was not going to cut it. The love of your life was caring, sweet, and knowledgeable on all things monsters and dungeons, but he was not exactly the sharpest tool in the shed when it came to social cues. You didn't mind of course, that was one of the things you found the most endearing about him. No matter how wary he was of other people and their intentions he always did his best to stay as genuine and sincere to himself as he could. The way he was so brave and willing to be unapologetically himself made you look up to him and admire his strong will. But gosh was he dense. 

Swallowing your own nerves you knew that if you wanted this relationship to advance anywhere you were going to have to to set things in motion. Not wasting any time one evening after eating a dish that consisted of harpy eggs and vegetables from senshis garden you volunteered to accompany Laios on a quest to find some extra fire material. 

Walking alone in the dungeon halls was not the most romantic ambiance or the place where you imagined you would have your love confession in - but this was Laios you had fallen for, confessing here was probably his equivalent of a grandiose cherry blossom confession. 

He had been rambling about his dream monster, something he had only spoken to you about, apart from his sister Falin, before you interrupted him. “I'm so sorry Laios, you know I love your monster talk…but there is something important I have to talk to you about.” you wrung your hands into the fabric of your long skirt, twisting and pulling to find confidence in between its threads. 

Sensing your nerves Laiois placed a gentle hand on your shoulder and nudged you to turn your body slightly towards him. His gorgeous puppy dog amber eyes peered into yours and scanned your face over, you guessed he was checking you out to see if you had any injuries bothering you. In return you averted his own gaze and stared down at your fidgeting hands. Finally he spoke up to break the silence, “Hey? Everything alright? Did the food not settle well with you?”

Oh silly Laios, always thinking about food, If you weren't so nervous right now you would've laughed at his question. Shaking your head you found the courage to lift your eyes back to his. 

You knew that Laios at least held some sort of affection towards you. You were still unsure if it ran as deep and as passionate as your feelings for him but you knew there was something there. You also knew that even if Laios wanted nothing to do with you in that way he would never belittle you for it. He was gentle and kind, a little too much sometimes, but he always treated others with respect. He had never done anything to hurt you purposefully. So you weren't quite sure why you felt so shaken by your attempt to confess. You supposed, that is just what love feels like. 

You really hoped it would get a little less scary in the future. 

“Laios, I think I love you.”

There, you said it. As blunt and straight to the point as you could, You made sure to leave nothing up to interpretation for Laios. You wanted him to fully understand the gravity of your feelings for him. Feeling anxiety crawl up your throat you quickly added  “And it's okay if you don't feel the same way. Or if that's too much too soon. I just wanted you to know.” 

The more you spoke the more you felt your voice die in your throat, each word sounding quieter than the last. Laios had still not said a word, but he stared at you with wide eyes and a slack jaw. In this moment you felt like you could puke from your nerves and yet you still thought the man in front you couldn't possibly look any cuter, 

Suddenly you heard him take in the biggest breath of air he could muster, alerting you that this man had stopped breathing since you confessed to him, and then exhaled with the most hearty laugh you've ever heard come from him. His cheeks bloomed in hues of reds and pinks, unstoppable rivers of blood that reached the tip of his fingers and pooled to his neck. His eyes blinked rapidly as if he was trying to make sure he wasn't in a dream. “Please,” he hiccuped, “Do you mean it?” 

You stared at his face before lowering your gaze to his lips. They were slightly parted and you could get a glimpse of his cute pink tongue. He must've noticed your stares because he let his tongue quickly swipe over his lips to wet them. Gazing back up to his eyes your hand finally let go of its death grip on your skirt and instead gently nestled into the side of his face. “I wouldn't even dream about joking about this Laois.” His eyes suddenly felt too intense for you so you closed your eyes and took another deep breath, “I love you and I can't contain it anymore. From the moment I met you I fell so deeply for you. You're so perfect. So kind.” You rubbed gentle circles on his cheeks, “‘You drive me crazy.”

Every word you spoke felt like a punch to the chest for Laios. In the best way possible. He never knew that hearing you sing such praises about him would affect him so viscerally. To his embarrassment he began to feel his pants become uncomfortably tight. “Not right now,” he thought. He didn't want to ruin your confession with his pervy thoughts. 

He brought his hand up to your wrist and held it in his grasp. You observed how his eyebrows crinkled in frustration as he shut his eyes tightly. His breathing seems labored and small beads of sweat began to form on his hairline. If it wasn't for his grasp on your wrist you would have fallen backward from the overwhelming amount of desire you felt for him. Gods…you wanted him so bad. 

Taking advantage of his closed eyes you let your own travel. You started off by staring at his lips still moist from his tongue, but your sinful desires seemed to take full control of your actions as you let your eyes wander further down his body. His armor in the way of you admiring his chest annoyed you for a second before you got a glimpse of something better. So this is why he was in deep concentration. 

Laios was suddenly shook from his stupor when the sound of your airy laugh reached his ears. Slowly peeking his eyes open he was welcomed by the sight of your beautiful face. Eyes clouded with something he couldn't describe stared directly at his current source of frustration. Gasping he pushed himself back and dropped your wrist as if it had burned him. 

He opened his mouth once, twice, three times to attempt and get some words out but for the life of him he couldn't form a single coherent sentence. A thousand things ran through his head and now it was turn to fidget with his hands. Pulling and picking his fingers he turned his body to face the wall behind him. He knew his silence could be taken wrongly and the last thing he wanted was to mess up his chances with the most beautiful woman he’s ever met. 

Thankfully, you knew the man you had fallen for better than you knew yourself. So you allowed him to have his moment alone. After all, you were more than pleased with his reaction to your confession. 

Finally he turned his head to the side, body still facing the wall, and began to speak up. “I'm sorry, I promise I'm not a perv. I don't know why I'm reacting like this,” He took in another deep breath, “You deserve a more romantic response.”

Giggling you made your way towards him and wrapped your arms around his armored torso, resting your head against his back you let out a content sigh. At this sudden feeling of warmth Laois tensed up before he quickly relaxed in your arms. “You're perfect Laios.”

Fuck. 

He was so fucking hard. Did you even know how much power you had over him? How all you had to do was ask him to give you the world and he would do it. You could ask for the moon and the stars and he would spend his entire life figuring out how to do it. He loved you. Oh he loved you so much. Gods, the minute he laid eyes on you for the first time, you introduced him to a thousand new emotions he had no idea what to do with for the first time in his life. He knew what attraction was, and he understood what it meant. But love? This type of love? He wanted to learn everything about it solely with you. 

Gaining confidence he flipped his body to face you, careful with your arms as he held them against himself. You could've melted in his arms right then and there, he looked at you with such adoration and love you almost felt bad about how much it excited you…almost. Testing the waters you pushed your body against his, feeling his boner poking your body. 

“Hmph- wait (y/n),” his face becoming impossibly more red than before. He laid his head on top of yours and breathed in your scent. There was no way he was going to be able to control himself for much longer if you kept testing him like this. 

Feeling bold, and a little impatient, you positioned your arms to wrap around his neck and brought your lips to his ear to whisper “It’s okay baby, I feel the same way too.” 

You gently grabbed his, very sweaty, hand and placed it on the hem of your skirt. “I want you Laios,”  his fingers curled around the hem, “If you want me too then I'm all yours.” 

That was all he needed to hear. Almost too fast your skirt was pooled around your ankles and the cold dungeon air kissed your bare legs. Still pressed against him you not only heard but felt the vibrations of his almost animalistic growl he released.

Gently separating from him you reached for the bottom of your shirt and pulled it off, discarding it on the floor. You wished there was a way to permanently tattoo the sight of Laios staring at you as if you were an angel sent from above into your eyelids. He made you feel so loved, so beautiful. One of the many reasons why you fell in love with him.

He quickly reached out for you once more and attacked your lips with his tongue, he wanted, no he needed, to taste you. Hot breaths melted into each other and moans danced together in the air. Your fingers wrapped around his ash blonde locks and slightly pulled whenever he would bite down on your lower lip with his teeth. As dreamy as this felt, there was still something bothering you. Tilting your head away from Laios you watched as he instinctively tried to follow your lips before you rested your palm against his. “I dont think it's really fair that I'm the only one half naked here.”

Gasping at your confession Laios began to fumble with his armor. Amused you watched as he clumsily pulled it off with a sense of urgency. Now Laios was not the type of person to hyperfixate on his body. He never really put in the time to debate whether he was handsome or not. His mind was always preoccupied with monsters, food, dungeons, and only recently you. But now that you were in front of him, waiting and watching, he felt the ugly sensation of insecurity make its way into his mind. Maybe you would take one look at his body and wish you were with someone more toned and ripped. He wasn't the skinniest guy, and for the first time ever he didn't like that. 

You noticed he was hesitating with removing his shirt and it honestly broke your heart. So you approached him and placed your hands on either side of his cheeks, squishing the fat causing his face to contort into an adorable little pout. “We don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with love,” you gave him a little peck on his pouty lips, ”But trust me when I say I love you. ALL of you. Including your body.” 

Oh…you were not real. That's all Laios could think. How on earth was there such a perfect person? An actual Goddess walking amongst mere mortals like him. How did someone as perfect as you fall for someone as strange as him? He didn't notice it but his eyes started to sparkle with unshed tears. For so long he's been alienated from this type of affection. Something he didn't know was bothering him deep down inside until he finally got it from you. 

He swore right then and there he would do anything to make you feel good. If you were a goddess then he was your most loyal worshiper. He finally removed his undershirt and stood before you bare chested. Before you had time to admire him he kneeled at your feet. “Laios? What are you doing?” 

“(y/n)...” He lifted your right foot and placed gentle kisses on it, “I'm going to show you just how much I love you.” 

Your words died in your throat as you watched him begin to trail his kisses from your foot to your ankle, and from your ankle to your leg. Every time his lips made contact with your skin your core pulsed with desire. His eyes never breaking contact with yours. Mentally imprinting your cute expressions and sounds into his mind forever. Finally he arrived at your inner thigh, its plushness making his dick twitch with excitement. If he wasn't so far gone he would've been a little embarrassed. But just a little.

He tried, he really did try, to control his impulses and not bite that delicious plush skin. But alas he was still a man, and you were so cute, so so cute. You jolted and gripped his hair when you felt his blunt teeth push down on your thigh, it hurt, but it felt so right. This continued on for a while before you started to lose your patience. You needed to be touched and he was taking too long, ignoring the most sensitive part of you. Bucking your hips you anchored his face to your core and held him there with your grip on his hair, not missing the moan he let out at your sudden dominance. “Then stop teasing and show me just how much you love me.”

His hands gripped your hips and he pressed his nose in between your folds, fuck you smelled so good. He was inexperienced with pussy but he was a professional eater, so he let his instincts take over. Pushing your underwear down he wasted no time connecting his tongue to your sensitive folds. He began by lapping up your delicious juices, immediately trying to guess what the flavor resembled. It was a bit tangy but somehow had a little bit of sweetness to it. He wondered if the food you had eaten today affected its taste, specifically the candy they had made with the dungeon spirits. This only made his cock impossibly more hard, already planning on tasting your delicious pussy every night after a good meal just to see how much it affected the way you tasted. Fuck was he in deep. 

Wanting to get a better taste he searched for your hole and once he located it he wasted no time pushing his tongue inside, fucking you with it. You began to roll your hips on his face, trying to meet the pace of his tongue. Your freed one of your hands from its deathly grip on his hair and moved it towards your clit. As good as Laios was making you feel, you needed a little more stimulation. This of course was not missed by him. 

Separating from your core with an obscene pop, he looked up at you, his mouth, chin, and even his nose glistening with your juices. “Please (y/n), teach me where to touch you.” 

Oh you were much deeper than him. But how could you not be?

Pushing yourself off the wall you were previously leaning on for stability you decided to lay down. Spreading your legs you used your hands to spread your pussy for Laios to observe. “This right here is called the clit, this is the most sensitive area.” He nodded along with extreme enthusiasm. Typical Laios you thought.

“You can rub it, lick, or suck on it.” You then inserted two fingers into your wet hole. “You already know what this is, but if you finger me here while licking my pussy-” a small whine managed to escape your lips, “You'll make me cum in no time baby.”

This brings us to where this originally started. With you writhing and moaning against the harsh dungeon floor as Laios abused your swollen pussy in every which way. So lost into your pleasure you couldn't even tell what was his tongue and what was his fingers anymore. Meanwhile Laios was having the time of his life in between your legs. While he was pleasuring your cunt, savoring, sucking, lapping, and overall devouring you, his hips bucked into the floor, chasing his own release. He could cum just by eating you out. 

You felt your legs begin to shake involuntarily, and you knew what this meant. “Laois! Im- Im-!” 

He knew exactly what you were trying to say by the way your legs began to grip his head “Mmph, cum for me baby.” 

He flattened his tongue on your clit and began bobbing his head side to side as fast as he could, occasionally stopping to suck on it with fervor. Meanwhile his fingers were pistoning your hole, curling inside to find your sweet spot. A sudden hot flash of pleasure completely took over your body and you couldn't contain yourself from gushing your orgasm all over his face. You swore you saw white as you let out your release. 

Laios felt so good he could cry. Your taste, your moans, your pussy, your everything was too overwhelming. He wanted more and at the same time couldn't handle it. With one last buck to the floor he felt his own searing release take over his body. Cumming in his underwear the vibrations of his own moan electrifying your cunt. 

After a few moments of you both catching your breaths and riding out your orgasms in bliss the reality of where you were hit you both like a ton of bricks.

Oops. 

You prayed the rest of your party members were too distracted with their own chores to have heard the sinful indulgences you and Laios participated in. In the middle of the dungeon no less. Oh well, you were too content with the man who was currently laying on top of you to really care. Unfortunately you knew that they would eventually come looking for the two of you if you took too long to return. Patting his back you pushed your body off the ground with your forearm and placed a gentle kiss on his head. 

Moving his head to look into your eyes he let out a gentle sigh. Clearly not ready to let go and head back just yet. He pressed a few kisses into your neck and hugged you tightly. He finally had you. Giggling you proceeded to sit up all the way and grabbed his face to attack him with kisses. Once you landed on his lips you noticed how you could taste yourself against him. 

“GUYS! WHERE ARE YOU?!” That was definitely Marcille. 

FUCK!

You both quickly scrambled to your feet and frantically searched for your discarded clothing, almost painfully pulling it on your bodies. Neither one of you had time to wipe down which caused you both to cringe a little. But that was better than being caught in such an intimate position by someone you both respected and cared about. Plus the embarrassment you would feel later would surely keep you up for nights on end. 

You quickly turned to Laios and without thinking ran your hands through his hair in an attempt to make it look presentable. If you weren't so focused you wouldn't have missed the pure look of awe and admiration he held for you at that moment. 

“There you are! We were beginning to get worried.” turning the corner, Marcille stood with a hand against her chest, letting out a deep sigh. 

“Huh what happened to you guys! You look like you just ran a marathon or something! Did you encounter any monsters?!” 

At the mention of monsters Laios quickly spoke up and formulated a very abstract lie about you and him getting chased by some creature. You honestly couldn't focus much on what he was saying, just being grateful that your man had all the knowledge in the world about monsters to create a believable story. Grabbing his hand you squeezed it. A wordless gesture that meant the world to the both of you. 

Now you wondered, when you were going to be able to return the favor to him.

.............................................................................................................................

AN: Hello!!! Thanks for reading this very self indulgent fic I wrote at my very adult job LOL. In case you couldn't tell this man has me in a chokehold. This is my very first time posting my writing and my first time writing a "x reader" fic. So I apologize if it feels a lil ooc at times.

I think I'd like to continue writing for Dungeon Meshi and possibly for other fandoms, so if you guys have any requests my inbox is always open. :3

[misshoneyimhome]

250 FOLLOWERS FESTIVAL

“Wait… you like me?” I Jack Hughes

Summary; In the world of hockey, you share a close friendship with Jack Hughes. Yet, as your feelings for him grow over time, you decide to keep them hidden. However, when fate suddenly pushes you to confront your emotions, will Jack risk your friendship for something more?

Tropes & warnings; friends to lovers; teasing/light bullying; some sort of sadness; hidden feelings; fear of one-sided love;

Other notes; so, I'm actually starting to find writing about this lad quite enjoyable; I mean, just take a look at him! He's absolutely adorable 🤗

Word count; 1.6K

➼｡ﾟ

You met Jack Hughes for the first time nearly a year after he was drafted, when you had just started working for the New Jersey Devils organization. You had volunteered for some unpaid media tasks, eager to establish yourself in the hockey community, which occasionally allowed you to get closer to the players. And already within your first few weeks at the hockey rink, Jack immediately noticed your curious and focused expression. Without even knowing why, he felt drawn to your shy smile and decided to strike up a conversation with you.

Although his high level of confidence initially took you by surprise, you were instantly charmed by his adorable smile and laughter. And with a combination of cheesy jokes, hockey references, and a playful sense of humour, Jack quickly grasped your deep love and passion for the sport, which only intrigued him further.

You had to admit, it felt as though your friendship blossomed out of nowhere. You bonded over analysing plays, discussing strategies, and the excitement of being part of the Devils' community. And being from the area yourself, you happily showed him around, unveiling all the hidden treasures unknown to many, as you got to know each other on deeper levels.

Jack couldn’t help but admire your dedication and knowledge of hockey, finding your passion for the sport captivating – much like his own. He appreciated how you cheered him on from the side lines, occasionally donning his jersey, and noticed your unwavering commitment to following the team whenever possible.

Yet, as your friendship gradually deepened over the following years, you couldn't deny that you found yourself relishing the time spent with him more and more. His infectious boyish smile, his amusing Florida accent, and his genuine kindness all contributed to making you feel at ease whenever you were in his presence. And as you both transitioned into adulthood, you felt yourself slowly developing deeper emotions for him.

However, you kept these feelings concealed, fearing the potential risk to your friendship. Moreover, you couldn't shake the belief that Jack was entirely out of your league. He was talented, charismatic, and had a magnetic personality that drew people to him. All the girls who pursued him exuded glamour and confidence, and you couldn't help but feel like you didn't measure up.

But though you didn't align with the same interests as those girls – preferring quiet evenings discussing hockey stats over amazing dinners – Jack valued your genuine calm and laid-back demeanour. He appreciated your dedication to your work and simply relished spending time with you, whether engaged in hockey conversations or simply enjoying each other's company.

And despite your insecurities, you treasured your friendship with Jack as well, grateful for the connection you shared. You simply never entertained the thought that he could view you as anything beyond a friend. Thus, you chose to keep your feelings hidden, content with enjoying his company and offering support in any way possible.

**

However, on one fateful night, fate seemed to conspire against you.

As the arena hummed with excitement, the New Jersey Devils celebrated yet another hard-earned victory over their rivals. Amidst a sea of cheering fans, you stood, passionately supporting the team you had grown to adore, as the energy was palpable, and the jubilation of the win filled the air.

And following the game, you found yourself in the company of Jack and several other members of the Devils organization. However, as you shared laughter and conversation, revelling in the triumph, the discussion suddenly took an unexpected turn.

The girls in the group began to tease you in a playful manner about your close friendship with Jack, their words carrying a mischievous undertone. Initially, it was light-hearted banter, harmless jests exchanged among friends. However, their teasing gradually veered towards a more pointed direction, causing a blush to spread across your cheeks with embarrassment.

"I swear, y/n, every time Jack scores a goal, you look at him as though he's the only person in the room," one of the girls teased, nudging you with her elbow.

And then another girl joined in, her laughter resonating through the air. "Yeah, it's as if you're completely smitten with him or something."

You attempted to shrug off their remarks with a nervous chuckle, but instead, it only seemed to encourage their teasing further.

"I think she might actually have a bit of a crush on him," one of them remarked, her tone laced with mock seriousness.

And then the realization hit you like a ton of bricks, and you felt your cheeks flushing even warmer. No matter how hard you tried to conceal it, you couldn't deny the truth in their words.

"Oh my gosh! She does... y/n's got a thing for Jack Hughes, how adorable," the first girl exclaimed, her laughter ringing through the hallway.

And nable to bear the embarrassment any longer, you hastily excused yourself from the group, muttering something about needing to freshen up. You spun on your heel and hurried away, seeking to put as much distance between yourself and the teasing girls as possible.

"Wait, y/n, hold on," Jack called out to you, his voice gentle but insistent.

But just as you thought you had managed to escape, you felt a gentle hand on your arm, halting your retreat. Turning around, you were met with Jack's concerned gaze, his expression soft yet urgent. Yet, you couldn't bring yourself to look him in the eye, the embarrassment still blazing hot on your cheeks.

"Y/n, don't walk away like that..." Jack pleaded, his grip tightening around your arm.

"Please, Jack," you attempted to shake him off, your voice barely audible. "I just want to go home, okay? You can just go back to your friends."

"What, no,” Jack's voice betrayed confusion and concern. "I'm not done talking to you."

You sighed, giving in slightly, pulling your hand to cross your arms across your chest. "Fine, then let’s talk?"

"I want to know about what they were saying back there," he said, his tone grave.

You bit your lip, feeling the blush returning to your cheeks, your arms tucking yourself tightly in a defence. "It's nothing, just silly chatter among girls."

Jack shook his head, his brows knitting together. "It didn't sound like nothing. They were discussing you and me, weren't they?"

You shifted uncomfortably, avoiding his gaze. "They... they were just teasing. It's not important." You tried to force a light chuckle, but your heavy breaths failed you. 

"Y/n," Jack said softly, his thumb brushing over the back of your hand, sending shivers down your spine. “Talk to me.”

Your heart raced in your chest as you struggled to find the right words, tears pressing on, yet you managed to hold them back. "I... Jack, I..."

He lifted your chin gently, compelling you to meet his gaze. "Wait... you like me?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

You swallowed hard, feeling the intensity of his stare. "Yes," you admitted quietly. "But I understand if you don't feel the same way. I mean, look at me, I'm nothing like the girls you're used to..."

Jack's expression softened; his thumb moving to trace gentle circles on your cheek. "Y/n, I don’t want you to be like those girls. You're not like anyone else I know. And that's what I like about you. You're passionate, driven, and you love hockey just as much as I do. You're not just some random girl to me, you're my best friend."

Tears welled up in your eyes, overwhelmed by his words. "But what about those other girls? The ones who are always around you, the ones who..."

"They mean nothing to me," Jack interrupted, his voice firm. "The only person I care about is you."

You searched his eyes, finding nothing but sincerity and warmth reflected back at you. And in that moment, you realized that there was a chance that everything was about to change.

"Jack," you whispered. "I like you. More than just a best friend."

A smile spread across Jack's face, and before you knew it, he was leaning in, his lips meeting yours in a gentle kiss. As you melted into his embrace, you couldn't help but think that perhaps, just perhaps, this was the start of something truly special.

And in that tender moment when Jack's lips met yours, all your worries and insecurities seemed to slowly dissolve. There was only the two of you, wrapped in the warmth of each other's embrace.

You leaned into the kiss, relishing the sensation of Jack's lips against yours, his gentle touch sending shivers down your spine. It felt like a dream come true, something you had only dared to imagine in your wildest fantasies.

And as the kiss deepened, you were swept away by a rush of emotions – joy, relief, and an overwhelming sense of love. It was surreal to believe that Jack felt the same way about you, that he saw you as more than just a friend.

Then breaking away from the kiss, he looked into your eyes with a soft smile. "I've wanted to do that for so long," he confessed, his voice brimming with sincerity.

And you couldn't help but smile back, feeling a wave of happiness wash over you. "Me too," you whispered, your heart overflowing with love for the man standing before you.

In that moment, everything felt perfect – the world around you faded away, leaving only the two of you lost in each other's embrace.

"So, you like me too, huh?" You chuckled lightly, breaking the silence that enveloped you.

"Yeah, probably have for a while…" Jack's admission was timid, his voice betraying a hint of vulnerability.

"You should’ve said something," you spoke almost nervously, feeling a little ridiculous for not having had the courage to speak up sooner.

"Sorry, I was afraid you didn’t feel the same…" Jack's words were filled with regret.

You couldn't suppress a light laughter, the tension dissipating. "Jack, how could I not feel the same? Everyone likes you."

"Told you, to me you’re different. But I’m just happy that you do like me… because I’m crazy about you," Jack confessed, his words filled with sincerity and warmth.

And with another kiss, you sealed the newfound relationship, the warmth of it echoing the promise of a future filled with love and happiness.

[elysiansparadise]

Are there any placements you wish you had in your birth chart?

I'm very happy with my chart, but yes, there are placements that I would love to have.

Placements I wish I had

🤍Virgo Moon. I think this is because of the love I feel towards these people, I genuinely consider them very admirable people and considerate of those around them. Empathetic, rational, highly intelligent and a trustworthy personality, they are often not given credit for that stunning creativity and I don't see them being mentioned for having the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen. Their self-sufficient and independent personality that is very aware of the needs, emotions and essence of others seems incredible to me, they have that remarkable balance. Many are introspective and are not afraid to analyze the depths of their emotions and it is something that not many usually do.

🤍Libra Mercury. Minutes have passed and you won't even know how but you will be there, listening or reading what they communicate, because they have the quality of catching and captivating through communication. Convincing, astute and above all highly intelligent communicators. Since I mentioned their intellect, in addition to seeing a situation from many different perspectives, they understand ideas quite quickly, in addition to this, these people love the idea of ​​continuing to learn about... any subject in general, they have a wide variety of interests.

🤍Uranus in the 5th house. Their personality is enigmatic, sassy, ​​multifaceted and full of charisma. They know how to grab your attention, but more importantly, they know how to keep it. They have an impressive stage presence and everyone I've met has a skill that stands out considerably from the rest. They are highly creative, very witty and socially charming, even if they call themselves introverts, they make memorable first impressions. They are passionate and unique lovers, I would dare to say that they are even difficult to forget.

🤍Venus in the 6th house. Beyond being charming, kind and self-conscious people, I have noticed that they have a unique quality that they don't realize, that of giving beauty touches to anything. Impeccable taste in fashion, aesthetics and an incredible eye for details and any organizational issue. They do things with their heart, they put their soul into projects, hobbies or causes that they consider important. Their souls are gentle and beautiful, knowing them will bring you many surprises, and each one will be better than the last. They are great as a friend and as a couple, they always seek the well-being of those they love and are capable of giving their best in their relationships. As a personal comment, the dates with them are incredible, they seek to do things that both enjoy and find a balance in their relationships.

🤍Mercury in the 9th house. Smart, funny, eloquent and people with extensive knowledge in their areas of interest. I love it. They are curious people by nature and once something catches their attention they dig deep. A quality to highlight in addition to all the above is their maturity and ability to understand that others think differently and instead of seeing it as a threat to their beliefs, they find what is fascinating in ideas different from their own. They defend their points of view tenaciously and can be very persuasive and skillful with their speech.

🤍Mars in Earth house. I think that in any of these houses [2nd, 6th or 10th] you have two things that I deeply admire, productivity and ambition. I really admire their ethics and the way they work, tenacious, strategic and excellent at long-term planning. They usually have a back-up plan and don't put expectations on anyone. They are demanding of themselves and are very professional in getting the work done. Qualities that I find very attractive. I add that I would like that in addition to this there was either a sextile with Saturn or an opposition.

🤍Moon-Saturn trine, sextile, quintile or biquintile. The self-control and resilience that these aspects give me fascinates me, it gives birth to a strong individual who is aware of all the difficulties they have gone through and is capable of trying to move on. When the Moon-Saturn aspects are used positively, the natives tenaciously rebuild themselves and although they look back to see those things from their past that afflict them, they know that they deserve better than that, that they are better than that and that their past does not define them. Likewise, they give a lot of peace and tranquility in their relationships, they are a great pillar for a partner, friends and family, and most importantly, they seek to understand and take care of what they most love.

[sagstelliums]

(Left to right) what others admire about you

Pile 1

I see that people admire how strong you are, you handle a lot of things that people wouldn’t. I see that people admire your intuition or knowledge, people admire how you don’t care about impressing people or making friends. People admire how balanced you are or how you always try to balance out situations that are unstable, people admire how you stand up for yourself and you don’t back down from conflict. People admire how you put yourself first, people admire how you have strong defenses and you don’t trust others easily. Some people admire that you’re not that spiritual or you don’t make spirituality a big deal, people admire how you’re not judgmental and people feel like you’re someone who can get through anything. Signs- Aries, Aquarius, Taurus. Initials- E, I, F, S, N

Pile 2

I see that people admire how optimistic you are, people admire how passionate you are and how much potential you have. People admire how you may not have a lot of confidence but that doesn’t stop you from going after your goals, people admire you because you give them a lot of emotional fulfillment. People admire you because you try your best to handle situations that are overwhelming and you stay hopeful in tough situations, people admire how humble you are. Signs- cancer/Pisces, initial- P, R, E, S, W, L, Q

Pile 3

I see that people admire you for your ideas or your creativity, people admire you because of you’re independence. People admire how outgoing you are and assertive, people admire you because you always do whatever it takes to get what you want, people admire you because you like to take action and you work hard. People admire you because you have a lot of knowledge or you have a lot of experience, people admire you because of your positivity/optimism. People admire how you always do your best to be your best self, people admire how strong you are and your feminine energy. People admire your laugh or smile. Signs- Taurus/Gemini, initials- K, I, Y, W, M, J, R

Pile 4

I see that people admire you because of your confidence and cheerfulness, people admire how you’re not afraid to think outside the box or challenge authority. People admire how honest you are and fair, people admire you because you’re mature and you’re strong enough to get through tough times. People admire you because you’re loyal and you love hard, people admire you because of how genuine you are. Signs- libra/Leo, initials- W, X, S, P, I, A, O

Personal readings always available, please watch my 18+ pick a card reading on YouTube

[nikethestatue]

The Agreement

Chapter 12

Elain Archeron

Elain’s pen filled page after page. Never before had she written anything this quickly and this…well (if she may say so herself!). The tale flowed. Elain’s always had a robust, and some have said, ‘wild’ imagination. She didn’t think that it was wild, but she created worlds and conversations in her mind, adventures and love stories. Ahhh, the love stories. She indulged in writing love stories the most. They were exciting and exhilarating and passionate and…completely false. Untrue. Fake. Her love stories were childish, based on conjuncture and fantasy, not on any personal experience. She’d observed Dorchester courting her sister Nesta, but it was a short and ill-timed affair, which resulted in Nesta’s heartbreak. And then there was her own fateful engagement to Graysen, Lord Nolan. When Azriel had asked her whether she loved Graysen, Elain was honest–at that time, she didn’t know. It felt like she should’ve been in love with her husband-to-be, and she tried. She really, really tried to love him. However, she did not know anything about the man, other than that he loved fox hunting. In a week, she’d learned more about Azriel than she’d ever known about Graysen. She knew what whiskey Azriel preferred, that he played the fortepiano, she knew that for breakfast he only ate eggs and that he enjoyed coffee, that he was quite knowledgeable in and admired French impressionist paintings–he’s had a few of those chaotic, perplexing pieces here at the house. Apparently, he’d been to France numerous times, and often left Paris with a painting or two. His horse was named Brutus–it was a stately black stallion. Now, she knew about Azriel sneaking all the way to the Levant instead of taking a leisurely year to explore the Swiss Alps and the canals of Venice. 

She knew Azriel much better than she ever knew Graysen. And perhaps, it was not love, but it was affection she felt for Azriel. Deep admiration and sexual attraction as well. And now, she could write about the genuine feelings that she was exploring  for the first time in her life, which was a thoroughly freeing experience.

A knock on the door startled her and she made a sloppy splat of ink on the page. 

“Elain?” She heard Nuala’s voice. “Are you alright, Miss?”

Looking around, waking up from her writing stupor, Elain looked around the room–the shadows were falling out in the garden. The clock said that it was after 3 pm. She couldn’t believe that she’s been writing for six hours straight.

“Elain?” Nuala repeated, concern lacing her voice.

Elain got up and went to open the door.

Nuala stood in the corridor, and Cerridwen was behind her. Both looked worried.

“Miss Elain, are you alright?” Nuala asked softly.

“Yes,” Elain nodded, unsure as to the reason for their panic. “I am well. Why?”

“Well, you’ve been locked in your room for the better part of the day and did not come down for luncheon.”

Cerridwen stepped forward and added, “We are under strict orders from his lordship that you eat at least three times daily. Full meals…”

“I apologise,” Elain whispered, reddening. She didn’t want to get the twins in trouble. She genuinely lost track of time, and now, they both felt at fault for her oversight. “I am sorry. I was…well, busy,” she explained vaguely. So far, only Azriel knew that she wrote, and she wanted to keep it that way. She liked having that little part of her life to remain private. Even though she was friendly with the twins, she didn’t want to reveal her hobby to them just yet.

“May I come in?” Nuala asked. “I should help you dress.”

Elain looked down and saw that she was still dressed in her house dress from the morning.

Elain stepped aside, allowing Nuala to enter, and noticing that the twins exchanged heavy glances between each other.

Slowly closing the door behind her, Nuala followed Elain inside and headed for the wardrobe, while Elain cleaned up her desk and put her writings into the drawer.

“I don’t mean to pry, Miss Elain,” Nuala turned swiftly and glared at Elain. “But I must ask–are you truly feeling well? Are you…hurt?”

It dawned on Elain at last–Nuala was aware of the fact that the relationship was consummated–and she was disturbed by Elain’s reluctance to come out of her room.  

Stepping closer, Nuala pressed, “did he hurt you?”

Shaking her head, Elain quickly said, “No. Nuala, he didn’t. It was very…intense,” and at that, she blushed deeply, but took the maid’s hand and squeezed it lightly. “Truly,” she pushed.

Nuala looked at her closely, and finally, after a long pause, squeezed Elain’s hand back.

“Like you said,” Elain reminded her with a smile, “he is a good lord.”

“He might be a good lord,” Nuala shrugged, motioning for Elain to sit down at her dressing table. She picked up the hair brush and began brushing through Elain’s thick hair, as she said, “but is he a good lover? A tender one? A caring one?”

Elain pursed her lips, and Nuala’s eyes dipped to Elain’s neck, down to her cleavage, to her arms, taking stock of all the marks and bruises that peppered her skin. Clearly, she wasn’t believing Elain’s words. 

Elain chewed on her lower lip, while Nuala brushed her hair somewhat aggressively.

“Yes, no, and yes,” Elain said at last, and Nuala threw her a confused look in the mirror.

Explaining further, Elain said, “he is a good lover, but he is not tender at all. But he is caring and he cared for me during and after.”

Nuala did not say anything back for a long while, while she braided and pinned Elain’s hair. She’d learned in the past week that Elain was comfortable with silences. She didn’t mind being lost in her thoughts and didn't have the need in her to constantly talk. It was both relaxing, but also unnerving at times. It reminded Nuala of Azriel too much. 

“Is that enough?” she finally snapped.

Elain looked at her and raised her brow in question.

“Him being nice, I suppose…caring even…is that enough?”

“It has to be,” Elain said flatly and that was that.

Nuala understood that the conversation was over. 

“What would you like to wear?” Nuala asked at last.

Before Elain could answer though, there was a knock on the door. Nuala went to open it and there stood the stone-faced Mr. Devlon. He remained expressionless when he announced, “A note came for Miss Elain from his lordship.” With that, he handed the envelope to Nuala and left without saying another word. 

“From his lordship,” Nuala said and Elain took the small envelope, and wished that her fingers didn’t tremble quite so visibly. She and Azriel did not part on good terms–she felt that he was upset with her, but there was nothing that she could do about that now. She stood by her decision of not agreeing to contract re-negotiating. It would only give Azriel more power in the relationship, and frankly, that wasn’t fair to her.

My beautiful Elain,

I’ve been called away and will be absent for a day or two. I will do my best to return to you speedily. Meanwhile, I think that it would allow you time to heal before I return and ravage you again. Worry not, beautiful, I am not angry with you. You were correct in standing up to me and to my unfair demands. 

While I am away, don’t you dare play with yourself. I’ll know if you did. And there will be consequences if you disobey.

Very fondly,

A.

Elain had no idea what to make of this strange missive. She read it a few times, attempting to ascertain the tone and whether he was being truthful about not being upset with her.

“Is everything well, Miss?” Nuala asked.

Finally snapping out of it, Elain nodded and tucked the letter into her brassiere. 

“His lordship will be away for a couple of days,” she explained, trying to keep her tone neutral. However, she couldn’t help her red hot cheeks, which flamed like two blazing coals. “There is no need to dress.”

Nuala tried to gauge Elain’s mood after the letter, but Elain did not let anything on, though judging by the deep blush that spread over her face and neck, the lord had said something naughty in his letter. Elain wasn’t exactly difficult to read. 

Nuala still wasn’t sure what to make of her new friend–was this girl utterly mad? Or was she wild and fearless? Did she know what she was doing? Or was she way over her head with this affair? Nuala just prayed that Elain would not get her heart broken in the end, because if she had hopes of seducing Azriel away from Morrigan, it was a futile endeavour. It would never happen. He wouldn’t budge. And Nuala hoped that Elain recognised that fact. 

“Nonsense!” Nuala announced, and Elain gave her a puzzled look.

“When the fox is away, the chickens are at play!” Nuala announced mysteriously, and Elain laughed heartily.

Seemed like the letter wasn’t a heartbreaker. 

“What do you have in mind?”

Nuala quickly pulled things from the wardrobe and said, spinning around the bedroom, “We are going out!”

“Out where?” Elain whispered cautiously, though the idea of leaving the house appealed to her.

“We shall go to a public dining hall!”

“What is that?”

“A place where we can dine, and there is music…and,” she whispered conspiratorially, “men!”

Elain’s hand flew to her mouth and she stared at Nuala.

“You are scandalous, Miss Nuala!” she chided her humorously.

“Am not!” Nuala put her hands on her hips. “Balthazar is romancing Cerridwen. You are engaged with his lordship. What am I left with? Mr. Devlon?”

At that, Elain dissolved into laughter, shaking with giggles.

Nuala was laughing too, while she added, “Though a little birdie told me that Mr. Devlon has a lady companion.”

“What?!” Elain's eyes just about bugged out of her head. “You jest!”

Nuala shrugged, “not at all. All servants talk and that’s what I heard! So…that leaves me all by my lonesome. Therefore, you and Cer are obligated to come with me and have dinner and be with people.”

“What if there is a suitor who wants to court you?” Elain pondered, curious about the twins’ position in the household.

Nuala winced and said, “Well, then I’d have to discuss it with his lordship. And I am certain that he’d demand that I’d go with a chaperone!”

“He is that strict?”

“Not strict. Concerned. You should've heard the earful that poor Balthazar got when his lordship discovered that he was courting Cer! Told him that if he’d make her pregnant without a wedding ring, he’d ruin his life.”

Elain was surprised, and yet she wasn’t. It seemed like an Azriel thing to do. Have this warped sense of honour and propriety. 

“Dress, and I’ll meet you downstairs in 10 minutes,” Nuala said and then skipped out of the bedroom hurriedly.

Where Elain was from, they had public houses, taverns, but she wasn’t familiar with these public food halls. She dressed in what Nuala had left for her–typical daily attire of a skirt, a shirtwaist and a jacket. She pulled on her gloves, and grabbed her hat and headed downstairs. 

Nuala appeared a minute later, dragging Cerridwen alongside her, and then she loudly suggested ‘invite Balty to join us’.

Cerridwen gave her a scandalised look, but Nuala only shrugged. 

“Mr. Devlon would be more amiable to let us go if we have a male escorting us.”

“Oh,”

“Yes. Oh. It’s just for that and no other reason.”

Elain hid her smile.

Apparently, Nuala approved of her sister’s romance with the valet. Elain didn’t know Balthazar well, because Azriel hardly ever needed his help, but he seemed to be a proper and genteel young man. 

They passed by the servants' dining room, to let Mr. Devlon know that they would be leaving. And to Elain’s surprise, Mr. Devlon was…entertaining. He and a middle-aged lady that Elain did not know were seated at the table, a tea service in front of them. 

“Ms. Alis will be joining us for dinner,” Mr. Devlon announced, and it was obvious that he wasn’t too thrilled to be found out like that. Because when they came in, he was actually…smiling. Laughing even. An unheard of event, up until now. “Since his lordship won’t be here tonight.”

“Mr. Devlon,” Nuala did her best to sound contrite and innocent. “We should like to have your permission to go out and eat at the dinner hall. Miss Elain’s never been to one, and we’d like to show it to her,”

“And there is dinner, Mr. Devlon,” Cerridwen piped in, “you and Ms. Alis should enjoy it together. There is beef stew and I’ve made pea soup as well. And a plum crumble for pudding.”

“And I shall escort the ladies,” Balthazar added immediately, even puffing out his chest, though he was a brawny, big lad, and there was no need to appear even bigger than he was.

Mr. Devlon gave them all an assessing, stern look, but then Ms. Alis whispered,

“Perhaps it would be good for them, Mr. Devlon? They are young and surely want to explore their horizons…”

Mr. Devlon considered, his lips pursed, but finally nodded and said, ‘you are to be home by 10:30 pm at the latest.”

“Yes, Mr. Devlon! Of course!” The twins beamed and then Cerridwen tugged Elain behind her, as they quickly left the dining room, before Mr. Devlon could change his mind. 

The four of them ran down the hallway and finally piled out of the servants door and onto the side path. 

“Was that her?” Elain asked excitedly. “Was that Mr. Devlon’s lady paramour?”

Cerridwen was laughing, and Nuala was bent over at the waist, panting and laughing. 

“She is the housekeeper of the Duke of Argyle’s household, Lord Tam Lin,” Balthazar explained, offering Elain his arm. She was technically of higher social standing than the twins, and he felt obligated to provide her with assistance. Instead of taking his arm, Elain nudged him towards Cerridwen and nodded in her direction. Balthazar smiled with gratitude and then sidled towards Cerridwen and gave his arm. She threaded it with hers and beamed with secret happiness. Nuala took Elain by the hand and they walked side by side.

It was a nice, warm evening, and people were out for a stroll. Even the normally quiet and empty streets of Belgravia were unusually busy, though the aristocrats took to their private gardens or were piling into cabs, while the help walked on the edge of the sidewalks. Balthazar took his place at the curb, to protect the ladies he was escorting, and Elain thought that perhaps, Azriel was worrying needlessly, since Balthazar seemed like a very decent and honourable gentleman.

“How would Mr. Devlon meet someone like Ms. Alis?” Elain wondered. 

“At a flower show,” Cerridwen laughed, as she turned to look at them. “Mr. Devlon is quite the florist–he actually cultivates heirloom roses, and devotes a lot of time to working on that–and every year, there is a flower show, at the Crystal Palace no less! And Mr. Devlon’s won a number of times. Ms. Alis visited the show, and even exhibited a couple of times. I suppose they share the love for horticulture and extravagant roses.”

Elain considered it, and then said, “well, I think that it’s rather romantic!”

Nuala laughed softly and pulled Elain to her, “ahhh, she’s got romance on her mind! She even finds Mr. Devlon romantic,”

“I wouldn’ go that far,” Elain laughed as well. “He is rather stern and frightful.”

“Which only makes it more amusing to watch his lordship be stern and frightful with Mr. Devlon. Though it doesn’t happen often.”

The casual mention of Azriel brought Elain’s thoughts back to him. She’s been in her head most of the day, and now, she was in the company of others, but deep down, Elain was always with Azriel–connected to him mentally and physically. Now, as they walked down the streets, in London’s perpetual fog, though it was very light this fine evening, Elain took stock of her body and all the minor aches and pains came back to the surface. Just last night, she was tangled in a naked embrace with the Duke of Velaris, him inside her body, his hands hot and needy all over her skin, his tongue…everywhere. She also just realised that she’d forgotten to dress properly and didn’t put on her corset, but was walking in her brassiere under her blouse and her jacket. Her tender nipples rubbing against the satin brought her to that reality. The dull, but pleasant soreness in her behind was also welcome–a tether that connected her to Azriel. Not to mention the ache between her legs. She hoped that no one noticed the immodest bouncing of her breasts, and how natural her body looked beneath the jacket.

They joined a stream of people–many younger females, in simple clothes–and some younger men, dressed in varied attire. 

“So who goes to these dining halls?” Elain asked, turning her head whichever way, like a baby. She hasn’t even been in places with so many people on the streets. When her father still had his fortune, the family lived in a manor, had acres and acres of land, but only ever ventured out to neighbouring estates, and at times to Dover, to a ball or a charity function. After their home and their money were gone, there was nowhere to go and travel was expensive anyway. They were stuck in St. Margaret’s Bay for years. Therefore, yet again, Elain was overwhelmed. She was initially shocked by the crowds when she first met Azriel (and she couldn't believe that it was only a week ago). Now, she was navigating through throngs of people, and she grabbed Nuala’s hand tighter. Nuala looked at her, but didn’t comment, and only squeezed her fingers kindly.

“You’ll like it, I promise,” Nuala whispered at last when they approached a building with tall doors, which swung back and forth. “And on the weekend, we’ll go to Than Gunter’s in Berkeley Square for sweet ices.”

It was a great food hall, when they entered. It was noisy and warm here, waiters and serving boys were running around, hauling great trays laden with dishes. Because Balthazar was with them, he took charge of finding seats, and the three of them followed him. 

There was dancing happening in the adjoining hall, the stomping of feet loud and the music fast and jovial. 

“Can we go dancing?” Elain asked excitedly, taking everything in. “What’s there?” she pointed to the second floor loggia, where there were individual tables set up, and far fewer people were milling about.

“Oh, that’s where the gentlemen dine,” Balthazar explained. 

“Gentlemen come here?” she was surprised. The clientele was decent, but this was a place for the working class–mostly domestics, labourers, perhaps some students. She couldn’t imagine Azriel here. 

“Perhaps not his lordship, but you would be surprised,” Cerridwen piped in, her eyes lighting up when they were brought four pints.

Elain’s never even had lager before, or at least not as much as a whole pint, but she took a sip and it went down well. It was smooth, hoppy, slightly bitter and fruity. 

Balthazar took to ordering for everyone, since he was a man and expected to take charge. Elain wondered if it were just the three girls, how quickly would they be approached and served? 

They were brought anchovy stuffed olives to nibble on, and Cerridwen asked, “Why are you looking so pensive like, Miss Elain?”

“You may simply call me Elain,” she said, sipping her lager. “I am not pensive,”

“You sure are,” Balthazar argued, his dark brown eyes watching her closely.

“I…oh, it’s stupid,” Elain waved her hand, but Balthazar and Cerridwent pressed her, “come on now. There is something going on…You don’t like the place?”

“No, no, the place is nice,” she assured them quickly. “It just made me think…You know how we had to ask Mr. Devlon for permission to go out tonight? And when we came here, they saw us with Balthazar and they found a table for us quickly and brought us drinks, but those four girls,” she pointed to the waiting area, “they’ve been here longer than us, and no one’s offered them a seat yet. And I bet that if Balthazar wanted to leave in the evening, no one would object. And I…I just don’t think it’s fair,” she exhaled and felt herself blush.

“Are you a Socialist?” Nuala queried.

“A Socialist?” Elain laughed nervously. “No. Of course not. But I would like,”

“What exactly?”

“I don’t want this to be all we ever do. You are domestics, but maybe you want to do something else entirely?” She looked at the twins. “And my sisters–my eldest, Nesta, she is so smart, so well-read, so erudite–and she can’t even do anything with her smarts.”

“She could become a governess,” Cerridwen proposed reluctantly.

“She doesn’t want to be a governess. Because she could do so much more! I want her to become a secretary,”

Both Balthazar and Nuiala bubbled their lips. This was a tall order kind of a declaration and Elain knew that. 

“She’d need a typing machine, you know,” Balthazar said reasonably. “They are expensive and she’d need to train, and she’d need to know how to interview well…”

Elain sighed and took a generous gulp of her lager. Her hands were shaking, and she couldn’t believe herself and that she allowed herself to voice her dreams out loud.

“I know. But I will buy her that machine and she will learn. And she will become a secretary!” she said stubbornly. “And then,” she was talking fast, the alcohol probably hitting her quicker than expected, “why couldn’t we all work and do what we want? Why can’t we own property? Why do we have to ask our fathers and husbands for permission to do everything? Why can’t we study in colleges?”

Cerridwen was shaking her head, until she muttered, “you’ve got many ambitions, Miss Elain. It’s commendable, but I don’t think it’s realistic, I am sorry to say.”

“I know,” Elain agreed, “I know. It’s all fairy tales in my head, it will never happen,”

The waiter delivered mutton cutlets with tomato sauce, and a platter of liver with onions, along with a bowl of young roasted potatoes. 

And while she was talking, Elain didn’t even dare speak about herself and why she was here, in London, in the Duke’s household in the first place. Because admitting out loud that she was whoring out her womb for money was simply terrible. Even if these three knew some of what was happening between her and the Duke, acknowledging it was not something Elain was ready to do. 

Balthazar tucked into the liver and pointed his fork in her direction with intention.

“You should ask his lordship,”

Elain sliced into the mutton and asked, “ask him for what?”

“He might agree with you,” Balthazar said, “at least in concept. He always championed women’s rights, donating to causes. He opened a women’s hospital in Whitechapel, because the mortality rates were so high for women and birthing mothers. He funds schools there as well–not sure how many children have the chance to attend, but he does what he can.

“Maybe he can do something for you?”

“I don’t see what he might be able to help,” Elain argued sadly. “His lordship is a good man, with a generous heart, but this change seems insurmountable,”

“Naw, Miss Elain, ain’t nothing insurmountable in the world if there is a will. You ain’t the only one talking like that,”

At that Elain stopped eating and looked up at Cerridwen with curiosity. 

Nuala nodded, “She's right, you know. There are women out there campaigning, organising rallies of all sorts, demanding more rights. 

“I don’t know if his lordship would allow you to attend–it does get somewhat dangerous at times, and there is much resistance–but you should talk to him,”

Elain hummed under her breath and nodded. 

Would Azriel be receptive to her ideas? He seemed like a modern enough man, but he was also the product of his upbringing and his status. 

“The food’s good,” Nuala announced, bringing the conversation to a close. 

“Not as good as Cer’s,” Balthazar smiled and Cerridwen blushed adorably at the compliment.

Was Elain envious of them?

Maybe a little.

What she had with Azriel was passionate, sexual, filthy even, but was it romantic? She wouldn’t say that. And maybe, she wanted a little of this–the cute compliments and the gentle touches and the tender gazes. 

Nuala huffed and grunted, “you two make me feel terrible about myself!”

“No!” Cerridwen reached for her sister’s hand and patted hers gently. “You’ll find someone. You know you will.”

Nuala rolled her eyes and said, her tone bitter, “when? When I am like Ms. Alis? Aged 53, droning on and on about my nephews, with a Mr. Devlon-like suitor?”

“You are being dramatic,” Balthazar cocked his brow, displaying the same even-keel-ness as Azriel. “Of course you will find a husband,”

“Balthazar, do you know many domestics who are married? The whole idea is that we get wages, shelter and food, but no private lives…It’s fine. Maybe I will become a revolutionary spinster!”

Elain chuckled at that.

“It doesn’t sound terrible.”

As they laughed, a shadow fell on their table and Elain lifted her eyes from her now-empty plate. She had polished off her cutlets very successfully. She still felt fairly ravenous all the time, hungry for food and for the comfort of having food around her. 

“If you are not otherwise engaged, Miss, would you grant me the pleasure of the next dance?”

A well-dressed man stood at their table. He was fashionably dressed, in a well-tailored suit, with a moss green waistcoat and an emerald green cravat. He stood in a confident pose, long legs firmly planted on the floor, one hand threaded into the seam of the waistcoat. He was a younger man, maybe mid-20s, with an attractive aristocratic face, fine features, and bronze-red hair styled unusually long. He wore a golden eye patch over his left eye. 

“Count Lucien Vanserra at your service,” he bowed slightly, his one brown eye gazing at Elain.

She was taken aback by the invitation, and didn’t know what to say, but she rose from her seat and curtsied.

“Count Vanserra.”

He extended an elbow to her, and she had no other choice but to take it.

It felt strange. 

Another man’s interest in her was…unusual. Confusing too. 

She didn’t know why her, and what she had that was so attractive. A duke and a count? That seemed a bit unbelievable.

Nuala and Cerridwen made big eyes at her, but she only managed a discreet shrug and followed along Count Vanserra’s long strides. He was not as tall as Azriel–but who was?--but he was still very tall, with a lean, athletic body.

“May I have a name?” he asked at last.

“Oh, pardon me and my manners. Elain. Elain Archeron.”

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Archeron,” he said warmly.

“You as well, Count.”

“Do you dance the polka, Miss?” he asked.

She nodded and he moved them closer to the dance hall. There was a small band of musicians playing in the corner, and what they lacked in numbers, they compensated in energy and fast, exciting tunes.

“Oh, this reminds me of home!” Elain exclaimed with a smile.

“Indeed? Where is home?” he queried, wrapping his arm around her waist. And then, they were off, swept into the vortex of the other dancing couples. 

Lucien led expertly, his steps sure and well-practised. 

“Dover,” Elain explained, watching her hand disappearing within his.

“Ahhh, and what sorts of music is played in Dover?”

“If we ever went out dancing, Irish music is popular. Fast dances. But it’s a port city, so we’ve heard all kinds of music there,”

“And now you are in London?” he prodded her.

Despite her best efforts, Elain coloured, suddenly becoming acutely aware of the fact that she was still dripping with Azriel’s seed in her satin knickers. It was both embarrassing and unsettling somehow. She hoped that her collar hid any marks from Azriel’s teeth–marks that he loved leaving on her body. She felt marked by him. She was his. Not only because of the fact that they had consummated their relationship last night, but because somehow, she belonged to him. She was Azriel’s. 

Count Vanserra didn’t seem to notice her apprehension, and waited for her answer.

“I am,” was all she said, while he whipped her up in his arms.

He waited for more, looking at her expectantly.

He was handsome. Not in the same way that Azriel was handsome–who was classically and unforgettably beautiful, but in a refined way, which spoke of many generations of noble blood. Though then she thought of the Queen, who wasn’t exactly a beauty, and decided that perhaps this Lucien Vanserra was just handsome.

“May I come clean, Miss Archeron?” he smiled at her, as he spun her about. 

“Certainly, sir,” she agreed, wondering what secret he was harbouring.

“I’ve seen you before.”

“Oh. You have?”

“I have,” he nodded, pulling her closer to his body. 

“Where would that be?”

“Duke of Velaris’s garden, to be exact.”

Jesus. She did not want him to know anything about her and Azriel, and establish a connection between the two of them, but it seemed like it was too late now. She’d been careful, and stayed mostly on the inside of the garden, figuring out how to make sense of it, and pulling weeds.

“I was curious, I must admit, as to who you were. And how did Azriel get such a pretty gardener?”

“You know the Duke of Velaris?”

“I do. Not closely–I don’t think he has close acquaintances, if I am being frank–but we frequent the same clubs,”

“What do you do, my lord?”

“My father is the ambassador to Britain–from Italy. I was born here though, so I am quintessentially British, though of Italian stock.”

“How fascinating.”

Elain didn’t know how to react, or what to say. She was frantically thinking of an explanation for what she was doing at Azriel’s house.

Lucien trotted the two of them around, while the tune changed, and now it was actually something Gaelic and familiar. 

“Uh, the music in this establishment leaves much to be desired,” Lucien winced, but Elain lit up and said, “well, I am enjoying it!”

“Well, then, lead on!” he laughed, and his smile was open and friendly.

Elain found herself liking him. He wasn’t particularly intense, not like Azriel, and there was a warmth about him, a lightness, which probably came from his background.

They linked arms and stomped about, facing a row of dancers, who answered with their own stomps. Elain caught sight of Nuala, dancing with a man, and Balthazar and Cerridwen dancing together, their eyes only for each other.

“So you are familiar with the Duke then?” Lucien pressed. 

Elain was breathless and smiling, as she nodded.

“I am his gardener! I am going to be studying at the Horticulture Institute and I was hired to tend to his grounds. It’s good practice and a good position to boot.”

The lie rolled easily off her tongue. It wasn’t all lies. She did work on Azriel’s garden and she was planning on applying to the Institute. Of course, somewhere in there, she was expected to become pregnant and bear his child, but that was…sometime in the future. She couldn’t think of it now.

“Lucky for him,” Lucien said flatly.

…The Count joined the four of them at their table after the dancing. He seemed comfortable and at ease in the presence of servants, and shared that he was the seventh son of his Ambassador father and his Countess mother. Because he was so low on the totem pole of importance to his father, he in fact, worked at the Embassy, and did various jobs which were not always glamorous. Yes, he was the elite, but he was also sort of approachable. Pleasant even. Didn’t treat the domestics with contempt. He and Balthazar shared a scotch, while the ladies had Victoria sponge, with extra helpings of cream. 

Once the evening finally began winding down, and Nuala noted that they needed to be home by 10:30 pm, and it was five past now, Lucien stood up and said, ‘Allow me to walk you home, Miss Archeron’.

“Of course, sir. It would be my pleasure.”

“Where do you live?” Elain asked once they were outside. Nuala led the way, then it was Elain and Lucien, and Cerridwen and Balthazar trailed them, making moon eyes at each other. 

“In Mayfair,” Lucien answered, “but the Embassy is in Belgravia, so I spend quite a lot of time there.”

Well, that explained how he spied her in Azriel’s garden.

“And you dine at the public food halls?”

“Suppose I do. It’s a quick dinner. Without pressure. I enjoy a club, or a restaurant, but it’s my job to socialise all day long, and sometimes, at night, I prefer some privacy and the chance to relax.”

“Understandable.”

He looked at her and said quietly, so that the others couldn’t hear,

“And I am glad that I did. It offered me the chance to meet you.”

Elain looked down at her feet, unsure of how to respond. 

His interest was obvious.

Her availability was questionable at best.

Part of the Agreement that she had with Azriel stated that she would not have relations with other males, which included courting.

If Azriel found out, he’d be furious. She knew that. Azriel was possessive, somewhat obsessive too, needy and demanding. And he was her employer, as well as her lover, and the man who held her heart in his hand.

It was too complicated and she didn’t know what to say. Because she knew that Lucien Vanserra was interested and would request to court her.

“Are you engaged with a man?” he asked.

Elain bit her lip and forced herself to shake her head no. What could she say? I am Azriel Night’s lover and would likely be the mother of his child.

Lucien perked up and smiled,

“That’s good news.”

“Is it?”

He exhaled and then proceeded to ask,

“Would you permit me to court you, Miss Elain?”

“Sir, this is so unexpected,” she murmured feebly. “We’ve only just met.”

“Of course, of course, I understand,” he nodded immediately. “I do not mean to pressure you, Miss. Surely you know this?”

“I know, sir.”

“Must I ask the Duke for permission?” he proposed seriously. “Is he your guardian?”

His innocent proposal caused such horror in Elain, that she actually choked and began to cough.

“Are you quite alright?” he worried, as they stopped and she hacked and panted in the middle of the street.

“I am, sir. Forgive me.”

She pounded her chest, feverishly thinking of a way out of this.

“Sir, I am flattered,” she said quickly. “Enormously. But am I of the appropriate background for you? I am not noble, you understand. I don’t have a dowry. I aim to be a working woman once I am finished with my education,”

“Until you are married, obviously.”

She winced, but agreed, ‘obviously’.

“I am not worried about your social status, Miss Archeron. You are a well-reared maid. Perhaps not wealthy, but I have a modest fortune of my own, so money is of no concern.

“And I am not expected to make a match based on wealth and status. I am lucky like that–being the seventh son has some advantages, you know,” he chuckled. “I may actually marry for love!”

“That is an advantage,” Elain agreed. She needed to stop this. At once. But how? She did not have a valid reason. And Lucien was…nice. She had no opposition to him, and even his missing eye didn’t bother her.

“What do you say, Miss Archeron?”

They were near Azriel’s pure-white mansion, lit up with gas lanterns and lamps on the outside. It looked beautiful and overwhelming.

“Mr. Vanserra, sir,” Elain turned to him once they approached the wrought iron fence and the other three quickly disappeared behind the gate.

“Please do not say ‘no’,” he pleaded, and the plea was genuine.

“Not a ‘no’,” she sighed. “But I’d just arrived in London last week. I’ve been settling, I only just began my work here, and my school will start in a few weeks. I am simply not ready for courting yet, sir. I am sorry. I don’t want to be unfair to you, but I cannot devote my time to a relationship right now.”

“And I understand,” he said earnestly. “I do, Miss Elain–and I am sorry for being so abrupt about my offer. However, I should like to call upon you in a month’s time, if that is acceptable to you?”

A month.

She had a month.

A lot could happen in a month. 

He’d likely forget all about her. 

“That is acceptable,” she nodded at last. “I’d be in a better place in a month.”

“Then it’s agreed!” He sounded cheerful and excited. “I am so pleased, Miss Archeron. So pleased.”

“So am I, sir,” she told him.

“Then we’ll meet again in a month,” he promised, and took her hand, bringing it to his lips. “I look forward to it. You won’t regret it. I think we’d make a fine couple.”

A fine couple indeed.

[everydayyoulovemeless]

Hello! Could I get some platonic hcs on a young scientist reader who's currently researching FEV and super mutants. What interactions would they have with Arcade, Curie, Lily Bowen, Fawkes and Marcus? If that's too many characters feel free to cut a few! Have a great day!

Arcade, Curie, Lily, Fawkes, and Marcus's Reactions to a Scientist Researching FEV

➼ Word Count » 0.7k ➼ Warnings » none ➼ Genre » Platonic

When Arcade first notices you studying FEV and the effects of the virus, he’ll immediately get ahold of his contacts in Westside to ask if Mean Sonofabitch can come to visit for a few hours so you can have a subject derive your questions. The Followers are a little low on resources at any given time, so there's not much else he can offer you to be of any use, but if you asked him for something, he'd be glad to see what he can do to retrieve it for you. His Enclave connections can be vitally helpful with your research too, so, depending on how close you both are, he wouldn't mind introducing you to the people who raised him and granting you more knowledge on the subject. He has a slight interest in the topic himself, mainly because it reminds him of his short-lived time in Navarro, and he loves helping out his fellow scientists in any way he can. So, helping you out with this is very fulfilling for him, especially since it's for a beneficial cause.

Curie finds it admirable that you’re so passionate about the subject. It’s so hard to find anyone whose focus isn’t only on survival but a genuine interest in a topic. She doesn’t understand the FEV as much as you might, but she can only hope you’re planning on using the knowledge you’ve accumulated for the betterment of those who suffered from it. She'll try to lure Strong into your makeshift lab to help with your studies, and she's surprisingly successful. She considers herself more of a biologist, so having a real-life subject would make it easier for her to be of aid in your research. However, it can get a little chaotic at times as Strong doesn't care for the research part of this at all, and he has spontaneous spurts of violence whenever Curie gets too close. Can't say you didn't try!

Lily recommends her doctor to you when you mention your interest. You'd probably get more out of him than you ever would from her. She's not great with all the science stuff, but Dr. Henry is. She'll walk you there as soon as you're ready and sit patiently in the lab as the two of you work and run tests, either on her or the others in Jacobstown. She's already lost all hope of ever turning human again, but she doesn't want to tell you that, afraid that she'd end up discouraging you from trying to help. So, she just sits and smiles, happy that you've found something to be passionate about in such a downer of a place.

Fawkes feels a glimmer of hope grow inside of him when you tell him what your research is about. He’s dreamed of being human again for as long as he could remember and if you plan on discovering a cure, then he’d be happy to help you in any way he could. Even if you're just fascinated with the field, he's still going to feel a surge of pride swell within him. The idea of someone whom he holds to such a high position for finding his condition interesting instead of disgusting makes him happy. He'll gladly answer any questions or be a part of any research you may be conducting at any given time. He just finds himself so genuinely happy to be regarded as useful, especially to someone like you.

Marcus will set you up with as good of a lab as he can offer in Jacobstown. The mutants there need this, and he’d do anything for his brothers and sisters if it meant that there'd be a chance they’d get their humanity back. The others won’t understand your interests at all and might be hostile toward you for it, but Marcus will always be there to ensure you're not being picked on by the others too much. He'll forever be grateful for your desire to help and will give you anything you could need; food, water, protection, a bed to sleep in - anything you need, he'll see what he can do to make happen. It's the least he can do to thank you, even if you don't end up discovering anything. Whatever you do will still be more than most have tried to do for them.

[shmowder]

I’ve been watching all the divorce talk/divorce angst hitting the scene so I’d like to throw a curveball in the current divorce talk and ask what it’d be like to be married to daniil because now I’m confused how a functional (or at least as functional with him as you’d get) marriage would be like

Especially interested in how a marriage with him would look if he’s put with his spouse together during the events of the game…<3

Oh my a devil's advocate! or a Daniil Dankovsky advocate in this scenario?

Lucky for you I have been imagining the bachelor's love story ever since I wrote that divorce prompt first draft.

Let me paint you a picture of a much youthful Daniil, freshly into med school, one with a glisten to his eyes and a purpose in his steps. He knows he is destined for something greater, never taking his gaze off of his goal.

To defeat death no matter the cost. To vanquish that greedy dragon that's stealing people's futures, both young and old. Disappearing into the abyss to never be seen again, snaging one human at a time.

And frankly, medicine is hard, really hard. The university itself is merciless. Yet he still takes up courses in philosophy where no one but him approch the assignments with seriousness.

Searching for the meaning of life, for wisdom in the old scriptures dating back hundreds of years old. Immortalised on leather pages and passed down from generation to generation.

Maybe the lessons of old sages are what he needs to ready himself for this seemingly impossible journey, pushing the boundary of life as we know it, lifting the veil, and facing the abyss head on.

That's how the two of you met.

Sitting next to each other in a lecture and taking notice of one another. Daniil introducing himself with a polite greeting, offering helpful input with anything you might not understand.

While it might have came off as condescending to your other classmates, you quickly found out how serious he was on his offer when you asked him to look over your notes at the end of the lecture and he obliged. Using his own notes for reference as he fills the gaps in knowledge you missed, his neat handwriting directory below your own on the paper.

And just like that, an unspoken vow was formed.

The two of you manage to find each other in every lecture you shared. Sitting together and finding solace in one another's company. He is brilliant and genuinely passionate about his studies and goals. You're kind enough to indulge his dreams, to never belittle his earnesty, and he repays your kindness tenfolds by going out of his way to help you in your studies and else.

Effortlessly charming, a true gentleman without being pearl-clutching uptight. You never have to watch your language around him. If anything, he has his fair share of venom that is occasionally let loose on those he deem deserve it.

You still can't believe he argued with the professor on your behalf in front of the whole class. You never asked him to, but he had to bring justice in his own hands when you were clearly in the right, when the professor was treating you unfairly because of some petty reason or grudge.

It worked in a way that.

The professor had it out for Daniil since that day, but at least they left you alone, which was a success in Daniil's view.

Throwing himself into the fire and coming out even stronger wasn't a simple feat to scoff at. It was impossible for your superiors to keep up with him or even win a single argument. No matter what, his own knowledge and hard work speak for themselves at the end of the day in each paper and assignment he hands in.

As the months passed by, the two of you only grew closer and closer. People admired Daniil yes but mostly for his mind, he was respected but not loved. Courtesy to his attitude and always assuming he is the smartest person in the room. Not you though, you liked those traits in him, after all his confident was more than deserved.

You yourself stood witness to just how much effort he puts in, the long all-nighters he constantly pulls in a row. The outside material he studies to stay informed. Daniil's love of knowledge and discovery burned bright.

He learns for the sake of learning rather than just to get some arbitrary high number on a test.

Yet when he is misinformed, he is surprisingly humble about it. His ego and pride, which almost spelt his doom in so many situations, get so easily pushed to the side if it meant he can broaden his knowledge about a subject he's interested in.

He always made time for helping you despite all the plates he had to balance. Going out of his way to secure the books and study materials you need for your courses, paying for them out of his own pocket, helping you revise and soak in information better.

Even lending you his own bed when your dorm roommates were too rowdy or annoying. The same person everyone claimed was stuck up, sleeping on the floor in his own room without a single complaint because he insists you take the bed for yourself tonight. You deserve rest, and he'll wake you up when it's the morning.

For a long while, you were the closest thing to a real friend Daniil ever had among the ocean of acquaintances. You enjoyed his company, the good and the bad. You didn't get intimidated by his intellectualism, nor did he ever feel like he had to water himself down for you.

He could truly talk freely without concern that his speeches might get misinterpreted as an attempt to show off or antagonise you.

Especially when he first started picking up on Latin qoutes; the impressed look on your face was to die for. The awe in your eyes made his heart swell with pride. A satisfied smile adorning his face, your praise akin to a melody to his ears.

It's what encouraged him to learn and memorise even more qoutes, to perfect his pronunciation and sound out the words when no one is looking. To put in extra effort just to shine a little bit brighter in your eyes.

The two of you were in your own world, slowly falling in love. He truly felt fulfilled by your side, looking out for someone else and fussing over your well-being and health from time to time.

Those nights when you'd let him test his medical knowledge on you, witness him start as unsure without a single clue of what to do and slowly grow more and more confident as he consulted his notes. He documented your symptoms and examined you from head to toe with focused eyes.

You watched him learn in real time and test himself through trial and error.

At other times, you got to see the hidden side of him. The beetle collection he had growing up, proudly telling you about them and sharing all the interesting facts with child-like enthusiasm.

Each year during university passed by like a dream,

Most people in college were looking to spread their wings, getting addicted to the taste of absolute freedom and losing their track to late night parties and trying everything new and taboo.

And while Daniil had his fair share of letting loose and getting absolutely wasted in the occasional parties, he still showed up the next morning to his 8am lecture whilst hungover. Enduring the pulsing headaches just not to miss out on tests.

He never once lost his track.

Yet, the only time he ever looked away from his goal was when he turned to gaze back at you, trudging behind and struggling to keep up.

Extending his hand to you, that amused smile on his lovely face as he pulled you to his side. As he helped you rise above your own expectations and meet your potential. Guiding you through every step of the way.

It came to no one's surprise when just a week after graduation they received the invitation to Daniil's engagement party.

He took you to a beautiful restaurant, the crowning jewel of the Capital's culinary arts. Saved up for a long time for it, cut cost on his own expenses, and picked up longer shifts interning at the hospitals.

It was worth it. Every single moment with you there was akin to heaven. How beautiful you looked dressed to the nines, how perfectly your arm slotted with his, how much work and effort he put into his appearance just to match you in glamour.

Doctor Daniil Dankovsky, after six long years, he finally earned that title. And you were there in every step of the way.

You are truly irreplaceable in his life.

So would you indulge this selfish man one last time and spend the remains of your days with him?

He earned an even better title that day, your betrothed and fiance Dankovsky.

But like every star that shined brightly and stood out in the night sky, it burned out even faster than the blink of an eye.

Daniil wasn't restrainted by the university rules anymore.

There were no lectures to end and force him to go back to his dorm. The hospital shifts would be extended as much as his body physically allowed before exhaustion took him out.

The sky is the limit. The real world was Daniil's real freedom. With his degree in hand, he could easily join any slightly intriguing research program or start his own. He could establish connections and correspondence with the most experienced aged doctors in his field.

His theories were taken seriously by other scholars, he actually looked forward to attending discussions and meetings with people who were intrigued by his proposals, his reputation soaring through the sky with every research paper he published.

It was endearing for you, to watch him achieve his goals. Reap the results of everything he carefully sowed and maintained. To him life just started, the opportunities were endless.

To you, however? Not so much. Yeah you had your degree now, but with fundings being shoved onto Daniil's hand left and right by investors who saw him as the one who'll finally invent the next philosopher's stone, immortality, you didn't have a reason to work. Seated at the lap of luxury in a comfortable life with your fiance.

Your fiance, who's time together with you, was shrinking more and more by the week.

By the time he founded Thanatica, journalists were tripping over their own feet to land an interview with the most famous thanatologist in the country. The Bachelor of Medicine is finally home.

The changes were so gradually that no one can ever blame you for not noticing them. He still doted on you and cared for your health, but more with a jaded doctor's mindest who has seen it all.

His hands are cold as he examines you, experienced touches and bored eyes. The same person who once struggled to measure your heat rate years ago. Now, effortlessly drawing your blood through a needle with light hands, reminding you to relax your body.

Something felt amiss, you'd stare at his deep brown eyes and feel like you're forgetting something important.

You can't pinpoint exactly when that nagging feeling started.

Maybe it was when the date nights became less and less frequent, when last minute flowers bouquet would substitute for the heartfelt letters he used to give you each birthday and valentine's.

Or maybe when he kept postponing his own wedding because he was just on the verge of a breakthrough and could not afford a distraction at this time.

That so-called breakthrough taking years and years.

The two of you were the first of your class to get engaged, and yet almost everyone you've known in university is married with kids by now.

There are times, however, when glimpses of the past replay themselves. On an early morning when he's still in bed with you, cuddling to your side, his hair a fluffy mess as he scrunches his nose at the annoying sunlight falling against his closed eyes.

The times when he's self-aware of his own shortcomings, when the two of you are home after a long social networking party.

A half-drunk Daniil carelessly throwing his newly bought snakeskin coat onto the couch. Smiling at you with alcohol sourced confidence. Only he manges to pull off being endearingly smug so naturally.

Sucking up to rich people and investors all day, endless politics and hidden motives, this game of chess is growing dull.

Daniil wrapping his arm around your waist, bringing yours around his neck. One step, then two, a slow dance in the living room. How gracefully he manages to move his body while the wine seeps into his system, how playful he is as he twirls you around.

Forgetting the world outside, dancing despite the knowledge that death always lurks by.

How he confessed to you that if he could pick a moment to die content, it'd be this one with you in his arms.

Just for a moment, everything is okay.

...

Until the morning comes again.

And you're leaning against the doorstep, sleep weighting heavy on your eyes. Daniil's finishes putting on his shoes before giving you the usual kiss on the cheek.

the cold air stings your bare skin when he opens the door. The skies are dim, wind howls in the empty streets at early dawn.

You close your eyes, and the sound of the door slamming shut follows by.

Slow steps leading you back to your still warm bed, empty now. The covers engulf you, soft and comfortable.

And alone.

Time distorts, three days pass before he's back home. Three days of prefering to sleep in his office than spare a ride back home.

Goddammit.

You're not mad, you tell yourself.

How can you be mad? Not when he looks worn to the bone, not when he barely has the energy to take off his shoes before collapsing into the bed.

Months pass, you've stopped keeping count. The promised breakthrough finally arrives. The world forgot about Thanatica and Dankovsky for a while but this? Oh this revelation sets the country ablaze.

"Thanatica's team successfully bring back the dead" Is what the frontpage of the news claimed.

In reality, it was an experiment, an attempt to revive a small amount of dead cells, and re-energise the dish sample.

An attempt, which was finally successful after a prolonged battle, when the foretold dead cells sample with great potential finally revealed itself.

You attended, of course, you had to be there for your husband... No, fiance. yes, your fiance still. Sitting beautifully at the front row, a seat he reserved just for you.

Watching him from down below amidst the crowd, gazing up at him as the lights of cameras flash against his skin. Realising just how unreachable he appears so high above.

How small you felt in contrast.

How the room held its breath on his every word, how he looked truly in his element. Under the lights and showered with the attention of hundreds of people at once.

The acid in your stomach turned, your throat closing around itself.

How could your attention alone compare? Is it even enough?

So you sat there like any supportive partner would. Waiting for him to come to you, each time he meets your eyes, his attention is immediately stolen by a journalist wanting an interview. Each step he takes towards you is interrupted by a colleague blocking his way to give their congratulations on this amazing achievement.

How Daniil indulges every one of them, never brushing them to the side. No, it's you who gets the short end of the stick each and every time, losing to complete strangers.

It takes an hour just for him to arrive at your side.

He looks at you with the same glisten in his eyes, he has finally did it. Another achievement, another win, another trophy earned.

And he's expecting your praise.

The same look he gave you many years ago when he'd learn a new Latin phrase and wait for your impressed reaction.

You look at him with contempt, wondering if he even remembers that endearment name he used to call you by. Mea vita... how long has it been since he called you that?

Were you still his life?

You smile, forced and tried, it's still a smile.

He doesn't buy it, he's not an idiot. Something is wrong but he doesn't open his mouth, too aware of the eager journalists eavesdropping around the corner, of the cameras pointed his way, your way.

Thankfully, you can drop that smile after a brief moment since Daniil spots someone across the room, an important figure from the inquisition itself. His eyes widen for a second before he's immediately abandoning his seat and leaving you behind.

So you sit and wait. Hands in your lap, counting the seconds until it's time to go home.

That day marks the first time you experienced a real serious fight with him.

Sure you had your disagreements before, but the two of you managed to stay civil and always compromise. Daniil made it a great deal to point out how neither of you should ever stoop so low to the point of yelling or insults.

Oh how the two of you always made fun of the other couples who fought. Saying how it can never happen between you two, it was just impossible.

Reviving the dead wasn't the only impossible feat achieved that day.

You've witnessed his anger, you are very familiar with his venom and fangs.

You just never thought you'd ever taste it one of those days.

It was always directed at the unjust, always a symbol of protection to you.

Daniil got too accustomed to getting his way, too used to you being the pliant spouse. To always understand why he had to cancel that date last minute or why he couldn't keep his promises.

To wait for him home.

He gets to see you when he pleases. You have to make appointments and take into consideration his schedule. Even then, he might not always show up.

This thread has worn thin. It was only a matter of time before it snapped.

The next day, guilt eats you up for what you did, regret churns like poison in his stomach.

He's the first to apologise, to humbly ask for forgiveness after taking time alone to collect his thoughts.

You accept it, because the love you shared could never die. If you don't accept Daniil Dankovsky in this life then who else will? Who else but you can accurately read his mind? Who else endures all his shortcomings for the brighter future?

Who else but you can understand?

Maybe he's too ahead of himself when he sits you down and gives you a list of promises to hold him accountable for. Admiting he has been less than adequate as a partner, but he'd rather learn and better himself than stay in the past.

You look down at the paper, and the wedding is at the top.

Gradually, the two of you work together. You speak up more, and he learns to listen better.

The wedding preparation period put all you've built to the test, to say it was tense would be an understatement.

There were so many things to take into account, so many people to impress and invite, so many people to visit and trips to the bakery, tailor and so on.

So little time.

Daniil had to take a break from Thanatica for a while, he couldn't be in two places at once, and he really, really tried.

It left him restless, ate him up at night.

But seeing how much happiness his presence provided you during these important moments and decisions helped ease the ache in his heart.

Despite it all, the wedding finally arrived.

It was beautiful, perfect in a sense. Fitting for a fairytale, Daniil glowed under the glittering lights in his white suit, you looked absolutely divine.

For once, you too stood in the spotlights with him.

You could built a castle from the amount of congratulation baskets and flower bouquets sent to your address. Important people taking the time to attend your wedding and offer you the best wishes.

Alas.

If this was a real fairytale it would've ended there, the hero wins back his love and archives his dreams, everyone is happy.

The End.

The real world was harsher, brutal even.

Eventually, all walls need demolition.

And even the sky might come crashing down.

All the effort he made, all that you've built together, slowly decays.

Feelings of being unwanted, undeserving and unloved plagued your mind.

Obsessions drove his actions to achieve more, surpass more expectations, earn more fame. Neglecting his now spouse in his crusade against death.

-

In a more merciful timeline, the two of you are still married in the events of pathologic.

In that life, you made space for yourself in his world instead of waiting around. It was you who insisted you accompany your husband on this long journey to this unkown town.

Daniil held objections and concerns for your safety, of course. But eventually, you won him over be it with wit or earnest honesty of why you want to come along.

Not to mention, he does find himself working better when you're by his side. A stark contrast between doing his research alone in a cold empty office all night and the college days when he'd invite you over while he works on assignments.

Just having you nearby immediately boosted his efficiency, looking up from the headache inducing theories on the paper to glance at you sitting on his bed, doing your own thing, did wonders to his morale.

A married Daniil immediately puts a stop to all the flirting from anyone who attempts it, be it Eva, Maria or Andrey. He ruthlessly shuts it down and tell them to not bother, they don't stand a chance.

The sucking up to him however? yeah... he still eats that up. Your husband might be a clever man but if someone strokes his ego, he becomes more prone to falling to manipulation.

You would've advised him not to take the murder case, not to involve himself with the Kains or accept to help them.

Except that you weren't there at the time. You were still exhausted from the train ride and Daniil told you to go to sleep, he won't go far, just going downstairs to thank Eva for her hospitality by offering this room to you two.

Of course one thing lead to another and curiosity took the best of him, of course he went to the Kains alone and immediately fell into their mouse trap.

By the time you're informed of what happened, it's morning on the second day, and he has already digged himself into a hole by involving himself too much in this case to back out now.

He's an idiot, a clever genius idiot who needs to stop chasing shadows on walls.

But he is your idiot, the ring proves it.

So you guess a murder investigation case is what the two of you are doing now. Daniil isn't embarrassed one bit as he asks you to be the Watson to his Sherlock. Even when you point out that he'd fit as Watson better since he was the doctor and all, he still insists that no... his version is better.

Two people working together definitely speeds thing up. Daniil struggles to remain a gentleman in this semi-apocalypse of a plague. On one hand he wants you to stay safe inside at night and not risk running into bandits or looters, on another hand his rational mind makes a good argument of why its necessary to teach you how to use a gun if you didn't already know.

You put his lousy pistol to shame, to say the least.

But if you were someone who's experienced with a dangerous life, the roles would be almost reversed as he asks you to come with him during his nightly errands... No, he doesn't need protection he just....

Ugh, fine, yes. He wants you there to watch his back and murder others for him, so what? He is your husband, and you love him. It is his right.

His progress moves much smoother. While it would be more efficient for the two of you to split and do seperate tasks, Daniil would rather you stick together.

Deep down, he is genuinely worried about you catching the plague. The idea itself horrifes him to the core. No matter how capable you are, he still makes you wait outside the plague infested house while he conducts his business inside.

Actually he'd prefer it entirely if you waited outside the infected District but you're too stubborn and he hates the fact that you learned how to best him in arguments after being together for more than a decade.

While the physical benefits of having another person around are nice and all. The mental benefit of having a real friend, a lover, and a spouse by his side during this showdown with death is the real golden line.

He'd never have had his breakdown in the usual game events, you'd have kept his sanity intact had you been by his side.

Put all his whispering voices in his head to bed with a simple touch, melted all the self-loathing away with a kiss.

Caught him in your arms as he fell down from grace.

As the realisation that he is just human, just one man, downed on him in cold blood. That he is so much weaker than he thought, that despite all his effort and studies, there is so much he is ignorant about when it comes to healing and medicine.

That he was sent here to die.

And like a fool he dragged you into the grave with him, he should've been more firm, he should've never allowed you to come along.

But by the gods, you're here now, and he can't change that. It absolutely pains him to see you go through the same strife.

And Daniil doesn't even believe in a god but he still carries that cross around, just in case he's desperate enough to get on his knees one day, to beg their merciless eyes for your life to be spared.

At least you'd be the one to sing him to his eternal sleep. The words he told you during that dance still held true,if he ever could choose his own death, then he'd be content to die in your arms.

But you must remain alive, at all costs.

You must survive.

More than once he attempts to make a deal, to throw his morality under the bus if it meant someone could provide a way for you to escape from this town.

Willing or not, he will get you out.

Because at that point he lost faith in all of his skills, his degree as a doctor might as well be a glorified napkin. He knows that he knows nothing.

-

Wow that was long. I hope you enjoyed it anon!

Writing it was fun, especially young Daniil <3

[nesting-dreams]

i see the memes of entp and infp all the time online of infp cartoonishly hating entp and entp being cartoonishly creepy, but a healthy entp and infp relationship is so much more fun to watch in my view. Entp’s and infp’s always have a rough start of misunderstanding, but if they can be mature and look past that. It’s a nice dynamic. I want to use fictional works as examples for this cuz it’s just easier.

I shall give 3 different examples. There is more, but these are my favourites. Marriage: Clara and Doc from back to the future 3. He saves her from dying and they fall for each other, he comes across as the mad doctor in the old west and she is intrigued, and it turns out she was supposed to die, so instead at the end, he offers her to live in time limbo with him so she doesn’t ruin the timeline, but she doesn’t die either. Clara risks dying on a train to be with him by walking on the outside of it to stop him from time jumping without her, he thought it was the best for her to leave her at first, but changed his mind when he saw her do that. She gives off the impression of being this sweet little thing, but her crazy matches his crazy with that train shenanigans and them hanging out throughout the movie. Doc even realised this after that stunt that she’s not normal. He is very happy about it. (Doc’s closest friend is a very mature esfp, who is the only one who really takes him seriously when it’s needed out of most people).

Crushes, but stay friends: Laetitia and Lupin the 3rd. Lupin the third the first. They meet from her throwing a punch at him after he stole from her after she set the cops on him, so she could steal this book that the Nazi’s wanted, and also again when she assaults him with her shoe later on. He makes her genuinely angry at one point and he realises he pushed the wrong button, what she got mad about was he told a lie about someone she admired and she fact corrects him and gets annoyed with him for trying to make her feel stupid. He got upset with her cuz she poked him back as a retort, but she backs off too when she realised she upset him. She dreamily wishes to solve ancient mysteries for the romance and fantasy of it. He wants to solve it for profit and the romance of it. After the suspicion has died down, They start out arguing looking for some ancient technology, the arguments don’t actually last long. It is not mean spirited arguing. Lupin’s really sweet to her for the rest of the movie. It is not often in the series he shows a sweet side like this. He tried kissing her and both developed a crush on the other. Laetitia loves the arguments and she also playfully sasses to his naughty comments. They both smirk at each other a lot knowingly. Because she looks like a puppy, he denies that he falls for it and makes fun of others for falling for it but he takes one look at her when he at first does not want too and he basically does anything she asks. He helps her out by going behind her back and using trickery to help her and others. She is more authentic and genuine and up front about helping him and others. She Cries when failure happens and he cheers her up, by showing her that he will back her up when she fails, and they help each other reach a common goal. They bounce ideas of each other, she shows her knowledge on things and he does the same. Both have different knowledge that helps each other to their common goal. She is genuinely impressed outloud with his smarts while he does not say it out loud, he gets excited for her when she gets passionate. He actively encourages her to use her head more. Later in the movie, he had jumped out a plane without a parachute for her to save her. Normally he thinks things through, but he didn’t for that one. He does sometimes have bursts of stupidity inbetween the genius. She does not hide her worry for him whenever he gets hurt or she thinks something bad may happen to him which I think does make an impact of him being gentle with her. He doesn’t usually hang around such soft people. both have the same idea when it comes to ending a disaster that happens. She tries blowing up this plane with her in it to stop it being used in killing people, but it does not go as planned. He tries the same thing later cuz while he did want to use it for himself what was found, he realised it was too much trouble “human’s aren’t ready for this yet”. He had a backup plan unlike her to escape before he would get consumed by the explosion. (Other people Lupin became friends with who he had a rocky start with (by rocky start I mean that they also tried to beat him up cuz he was insufferable first meeting: estp, Esfp, Infj, istp (out of these he is softest to the infj. I think it’s that introverted feelers that makes his fe want to take care of the introverted feelers people like Laetitia and Goemon. It’s nice seeing how gently he treats Goemon and Laetitia. He does show his sweet side to Esfp, but at some point he stops because Esfp does not take it seriously. I think he wonders what is the point in showing it to her and he reverts back to his usual attitude). Other people he got along with right away: Intp (he sees her as a niece cuz she’s 14). Who he respects yet he always messes with him: Estj. (Laetitia respects an estj called Zenigata and he is really nice to her. It’s nice seeing the stereotype of an infp and estj hating each other thrown in the trash like that computer meme).

Goemon knows how to roast, he has dark ideas and take jabs, but Lupin never really takes it too far with him. He pokes and prods, but not as much as he does with the others. The infj and infp respond positively to him being nicer, so he keeps doing it. They are his moral compass. Meanwhile, his istp friend tends to keep a distant to help and emotions. Lupin is best friends with the istp, he’d jump into a running bus for him, istp would do the same, but they don’t often have a heart to heart. Their play is more rough and they can take the more serious pokes and jabs at each other. (Lupin healthily boosts Laeitita’s Te to the surface which has her notice when she is being manipulated and to be more practical and to use her head in finding out more information on the person manipulating her (she is an adult infp so she actually is good at using it on her own, he just helps her use it even more and in a more practical sense). both connect with their si and Ne, honestly the nicest parts of the movie is when they’re just talking with each other quietly and not moving the plot forward. He also boosts up Goemon’s Se which has Goemon experience things more in life on a whim, he also helps Goemon notice when he’s being manipulated, but if Goemon has noticed he is being manipulated, he usually is not sure what to do if his usual methods don’t work, so Lupin helps him out of that situation. Meanwhile, both Laetitia and Goemon boost Lupin’s Fe to the surface and make him a nicer person in a healthy way. Meanwhile, with others he can be callous at times and not listen to them. He does not like to see Goemon and Laetitia sad and does his best to make them smile even at his own expense. He acts like a cheerleader for both in a way).

Mentor and student: Dazai, entp mentor, Atsushi, infp student. Bungou stray dogs. Dazai had saved Atsushi from homelessness with the usual trickery behind his back thing. And Atsushi is grateful and just stayed with the detective agency. At first, Dazai tries to keep a distance emotionally, pushing buttons. Atsushi becomes more confident and sassy because of Dazai, and Dazai feels like someone cares about him for once in his life so he softens. He gets in trouble and most of the people in this series just shrug it off, but Atsushi’s almost the only one worrying about him (Dazai got taken away by the mafia and Atsushi started worrying where Dazai has been for the past couple of days while the others don’t worry about it). Dazai loves that his student is so willing to listen to him, even his silly little antics, yet sass him back. Atsushi feels the most comfortable around Dazai aside from Kyoka. Dazai’s incredibly sweet to his student. These two have moments where they can talk about stuff with each other that they can’t with others. entp in mentor roles to infp always feel like that disgruntled dad adopting a stray puppy who’s looking for a home, at first the dad doesn’t want it, but he’s not going to throw the puppy out cuz that’d be cruel, but then he will throw a table if you even insist on finding the puppy a new home or suggest putting it down, eventually. Meanwhile, infp’s are just in general protective of their love ones right away. (Who Dazai was close to who died: Infj / someone he is friends with but won’t admit it: Entj/ Atsushi works with an estj who he respects greatly, they’re not friends or close, but both respect each other. You don’t see that happen often, but it can happen. It’s nice seeing the stereotype not being around for once in fiction / Kyoka is an isfp). Bonus cuz I’m not writing more cuz I’ll just keep repeating myself. Family: Edward and Alphonse from full metal alchemist. Yuta and Gojo from Jujutsu kaisen (Gojo is also his mentor). The family dynamic is a lot like the student and teacher I wrote with entp always being the oldest sibling or oldest distant cousins.

For Entp and infp to work, infp needs to have a bite to them from years of life experience and entp needs to soften from years of life experience. Most infp’s and entp’s in reality do mention being fond of the other. They always are great together in fiction too. I’m not sure exactly where these memes come from of them only hating each other, obviously there will be some infp and entp who dislike each other, but I hear more good than bad. Only an infp (and infj) can apparently make Entp feel this “strange protectiveness” over them that does not really come out for other people. (Side note. I also love seeing enfp/intj and intp/enfj together. they really do bring the best out of each other without overshadowing the other and putting them in a box. They all start out annoying each other, but can’t deny being drawn to each other).

[zeawoo]

[20:34] ! park jongseong

GENRE ▸ established relationship, fluff

WORDCOUNT ▸ 693

DISCLAIMERS ▸ mentions of food, not really good tbh 💀

TAGS ▸ @soobin-chois @enhacolor @yyunari @ethereal-engene

“God I’m so tired.” You make your presence known as soon as you enter the small apartment as if the beeping from the door and the rustling aren’t a clear enough sign.

“Y/n?” Jay’s head pops out from behind the wall that separates the entrance from the other parts of the house. He sees you struggling with your gym bag thanks to your shaking arms. Out of reflex, he grabs it and waits for you to kick off your shoes.

Jay goes to put the duffle bag away and comes back to find you collapsed not on the couch, or the floor. It’s somewhat a combination of both; your arms dangling off the leather material and your legs sprawled on the ceramic floor. He almost laughs at how ridiculous you look, but he reminds himself that he isn’t any better post-workout, either. So instead, your boyfriend picks your body off the floor up onto the couch and takes a seat on the edge. He takes it upon himself to place your sore legs on his lap. And without even being asked, Jay starts massaging the pain away just like magic.

You’re lucky to have a boyfriend like him. And even though the man is quite literally head over heels for you and folds the moment your eyes meet, you love it when he puts his knowledge to use not necessarily to impress you. Just genuinely out of the kindness of his heart.

“Leg day?” Jay’s voice disrupts the silence in the living room. Your arm that's covering the upper half of your face moves away for you to slightly lift your head to meet his gaze.

“Dude you don’t know how much pain I was in when I was on the stair master.” An exhausted breath overtakes the last part of your sentence, but you’re confident Jay can decipher what you said considering how much you talk about the gym.

At first, you weren’t the type to care about doing exercise or anything of that sort. It only started once your close friend made you take advantage of Jongseong’s premium gym pass when he was off on a schedule. You didn’t necessarily enjoy it, but when you found yourself yearning for that last rep, you knew you were starting to get hooked on this new hyper fixation.

It was almost like a blessing in disguise because, before that, you had lost all your motivation and had hit a point in your life where everything seemed to be boring. Your attention span was horrible, the mood swings were pretty bad and your sleep schedule was even worse.

After going to the gym a couple of times and developing some sort of love for it, though, it seemed like your life was slowly getting more colorful day by day. Of course, you still had bad days but exercising was like a soft cushion that was there to catch you whenever you had a setback.

Your boyfriend caught on quite easily. It was pretty obvious seeing as you suddenly started talking about working out so much. And so like the star boyfriend he is, Jay started looking into workout routines you said you wanted to try and personally trained you. 

Jay won’t say it, but he’s glad that you’ve found something you’re so passionate about.

And so he looks at you endearingly, admiring every part of your face with nothing but love in his dark eyes. “Go shower, I’ll make you something to eat in the meantime.”

“A yogurt parfait?” You suddenly spring up, big eyes blazing with a sudden craving for something sweet.

“With granola, honey, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The minis 'cause I know you don’t like the original ones.” A smile picks at your boyfriend's lips seeing you lick your lips just thinking about your post-workout meal.

“And then-“

“Yes, we can watch King the Land with your Doraemon plush.”

Your face can’t be any brighter at this point. “And-“

“Yes, I’ll give you a full body massage afterward.”

“Park Jongseong, I love you a ton.” You lean in to kiss his lips, giggling when he mumbles something along the lines of L/n Y/n, I love you 3000.

[imaaa]

there are days when there is nothing to say, and everything is smoothly sailing. and then there are days when you can’t make out what your mind wants to say because there’s too much to make peace with. i can’t count the number of times i have chanted in my head that i wish i were not here, but the worst part is i don’t know where else i’d rather be.

i already had a 4-hour evening nap that even if i want to escape this state of mind by sleeping, i cannot. i am anything but sleepy. i genuinely wish that were not the case. weighing the options, i think it’s better to sit with my laptop and put this sadness out than be wrapped in the blanket and think of everything that’s too difficult to comprehend. i wish i had not been told love’s the cure to everything. now, i keep on looking for it even if it’s so out of reach. i never feel like i am putting enough effort, and perhaps that’s true. or maybe i lack acknowledgment whenever i put in a substantial amount of it.

where do i belong, or what defines my personality? i wish i had some interests i was deeply passionate about. a singer, a director, an author, an actor, an artist, a game, a subject, a genre, an activity, something i could call a core part of my personality. someone or something i had all the knowledge about. something that would make my eyes gleam when the name would be mentioned. writing is there, true, but it is all so ambiguous. i wish i were interested in something that had facts, figures, knowledge, and absolute admiration. anyway, i want to fall in love and know what it is like to know how one defines it. i don’t say or accept this too often, but i yearn to know what love looks like. i would love to describe it in actual words. fictional representation of love all this while hasn’t been enough.

i am talking too much, bringing a new topic - a new sentence - without completing the previous one. are all my thoughts connected, or are they unrelated that putting them together doesn’t make sense whatsoever? this piece of writing would score so low if it were a part of an exam. it is not coherent and doesn’t have any consistency, either. the good thing is it’s not a write-up for an exam where it would be graded. this is me in my rawest form. perhaps many would not approve, just like many professors won’t approve this write-up, but it’s fine. it’s fine because i have nothing else to say to make myself feel better.

[oraclekleo]

Can't explain in words but i really feel so greatful to have known you all and be a part of this community. You are really so kind to me and i appreciate it so much. I absolutely love tarot and when the reading resonates sm with the situations it makes things even more beautiful...!!!! 🫧

Here's a quick feedback; The reading was so on point and resonating. It would be a lie if i say that I ain't a hopeless romantic but definitely love and relationships have never been my first priority, but lately I'm definitely feeling really very drawn to knowing more about our meeting, connection and tarot readings and as you've mentioned. I feel drawn towards love, the love that I'm craving and was kind of avoiding for a while. Overall the reading definitely resonates with my current situation and as you've mentioned there could be a hidden message maybe there was?? I'm getting something a message for sure but dk if I'm right I'll just trust my intuition and take what seems right. Overall the reading was amazing and so right on what has been happening recently-!! I really feel so greatful and thankful. I'll take your words into account and really appreciate you for allowing me to participate multiple times. I love your readings, cards and games. It's such a huge deal for me. Sending my love to you and the dogs, cuties. Hope you all stay healthy and happy similarly how you make others. Have a wonderful day ahead. 🫶🏻🤍✨🧿

Hello!

Oh please! Stop making me blush 🤭

I'm really happy the reading resonated.

It's usual for people to feel passionate about love but saving it for the right time. When you needed to prioritise other aspects of life, it was only sensible to let the romance and love sit in the corner for a while. Now when you feel ready to dive into these matters more, it's perfectly fine to do so. I really think this approach is admirable as it's beneficial on multiple levels.

Exploring ones approach to love and relationships and connection with other people is long journey, sometimes pleasurable, sometimes we learn painful lessons but overall a positive experience. All I can say here is, be yourself, be genuine, love yourself first and then the other people. 💖 A quick tip: I actually became more compassionate and kind to others and found that desire to spread love and help, once I finally started to love myself. Unless you truly love yourself, it's very difficult to actually love others. So... Self-love comes first! 😂💕

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback, it means a world to me.

And feel free to hit my inbox or DMs anytime you feel like it. I'm truly open to chatting about anything. I don't have practical experience with romantic love but I have plenty of theoretical knowledge. 🤣

Easy and Dachi send their love 🐕💖🐕💖

[alagaesia-headcanons]

Hello! Finally scraped together my courage! I love how you talk of the inheritance cycle and i have a lots of feels for that saga, it's the first fantasy i have EVER read.

As you have probably guessed i love Orrin and kind of appreciate Murthag, but my favourite character is Jeod.

Could you talk a bit about your thoughts on him? I find him an incredibly fascinating character (and he wields a RAPIER. that's the BEST WEAPON.)

lots of love! i really like your blog!

Hello hello!!! Thank you so much, I'm glad you enjoy my stuff and I'm glad for the ask as well!

I really like Jeod! He's one of my favorite background characters. I think it's especially refreshing that he's not emphasized as a warrior and the most important contributions he makes are through his scholarly studies. In that way, he really balances out the main characters who are very focused on the war and the battles. And the way he encourages his same sort of curiosity and joy for books and learning in Eragon is very sweet, and I wish we could have seen more of it. Overall, Jeod simply comes across as very heartfelt, I see him as one of the more caring characters with the way he so readily goes out of his way to help- joining the Varden to steal the egg in the first place, helping Brom and Eragon without hesitation, and giving Roran and the others from Carvahall the chance to reach Surda. He does all he can and it's very endearing.

I also have an old headcanon deep in my heart that Jeod had a long standing and ill fated crush on Brom. In the beginning, the mysteriousness and intrigue that his brisk, guarded manner evoked drew him in, and then he came to admire his sharp wit experienced confidence. It started as a little crush, light and guileless. He never had the courage to mention it and Brom, always forging ahead and never slowing down, didn't give him much chance anyway. But the feelings stayed with him and they slowly transformed into something more sincere- a quiet, persistent pining. But Jeod still feared saying what he felt and Brom always regarded them as colleagues, or sometimes friends, and if he recognized anything else in Jeod's heart, he turned a blind eye to it. Jeod told himself maybe he would finally say something more after they settled the matter of the missing dragon egg, but then Brom died. At least Jeod believed so. Too little too late. When he married Helen a few years later, it wasn't his most thought out decision and he always carried a bit of guilt for never loving her quite the same way he loved Brom. After Brom suddenly appeared on his doorstep again, Jeod almost told him, but it still felt like too late. He was married now, and he could sense that wherever Brom's fate led, it was with Eragon and Saphira, not him. And lo and behold, he lost Brom a second time months later, a more gentle heartbreak than the first, but still poignant.

But on another note I've been thinking about lately, if they'd gotten a proper opportunity, I actually think Jeod and Orrin would get along very well. Of course their shared interest in academics and research and learning would give them common ground and draw them together, and I picture them going back and forth discussing their various areas of interest for ages. And I rather wish that the sort of support Jeod gave Eragon could have been shared with Orrin as well because it would really suit both their characters and could have been a very touching and significant exchange. Orrin's interest in science is very genuine and passionate but it never receives any encouragement in canon and I can really easily see that coming from Jeod, who deeply understands and respects the drive to learn, telling him that his work and skill are admirable and valuable. Also, I can only imagine how jealous Orrin was of Jeod during the war lmao.

Jeod: oh haha I'm not much of a fighter anymore so I help the war effort with my scholarly knowledge, studying books to find things that might help! :)

Orrin, through clenched teeth, vibrating slightly: god I wish that were me.

[emerysarchive]

Genuinely I just have to write these headcanons out for the sake of my sanity XD

I thought I could structure it, but as always I just end up rambling and this is more from my Tav p.o.v than Gale's.

Tav is named Maeve (she/her) a wood half-elf abjuration wizard (with 1 level in cleric). I have a post about the specific headcanons for her.

Since Bg3 has no artificers I settled for the guild artisan background. She's crafty and no layer of the Abyss has ever seen this much anxiety stored in a single half-elf. She is trying her best and at the end of the journey happened to have some gray hairs already showing.

Be wary of spoilers, especially for act II and the occasional sarcastic/sassy remark (and all grammar mistakes, English isn't my first language and this is only loosely edited)

(Some events are out of order is what I mean...mostly)

CW: anxiety/panic attacks, suggestive content (at the end of act II...how surprising)

Edit: Ok as I'm writing this, it feels like a bullet pointed fanfiction XD.

Get ready for ✨ organised chaos ✨.

Act I

• Maeve never saw herself as a leader, until she was unceremoniously thrown into the position.

• Meeting Shadowheart after the crash she assumed it's going to be a team effort until they found more allies. She realized that in order for this to work there has to be someone to organise everyone otherwise it's going to be chaos.

• With two wizards in a party she knew that she will have put all of her alchemy knowledge to use. Those scrolls don't come cheap after all so they need to be resourceful.

• She was all too relieved when Gale offered to cook for the camp.

• "I assumed your left eye wasn't twitching because of the unwelcomed guest in our heads."

• Early on it became a habit for Gale to cook while she was nearby making potions, elixirs and coatings with the occasional bomb thrown in the mix.

• Then she learned there's an actual, magical bomb in Gale's chest. The kneeling surprised her more than that revelation.

• This innate curiosity and immediate acceptance took Gale by surprise. He thought she would cast him out of the camp however he was greeted with assurances and the promise that she will help him with the orb.

• Maeve is familiar with wizard arrogance so having Gale around made her feel like she's back at the academy among her peers...just in a more life threatening environment.

• This wasn’t exactly what she meant when she wished to go on a adventure after graduating a couple of years ago.

• She has heard many wizards wax poetic about their life goals, but most of them only end up sounding like shallow, pompous assholes (Honestly with any topic).

• Gale was in that category until she got to know him and admit to herself that she has never met anyone with so much genuine love and passion for magic.

• Magic isn't just a tool, it's an art form.

• With a new outlook she wanted to get to know Gale of Waterdeep. She already had heard about him, but wasn't ever interested to know anything further. Now she had the chance to personally get to know him.

• The second she learned he liked to play lanceboard she underwent a side project to make him one out of wood. It was nice to make something for a friend for once and not just because they needed to survive.

• Speaking about that, thanks to her dad she had always been careful about not accidentally poisoning herself when it came to suspicious plants. That streak of luck ended when Nettie cut her with maybe the only poisonous plant she didn’t recognise.

• Gale's reaction was sweet, but the underlying subtext made her worried (there can be only one person willing to sacrifice everything for everyone).

• When they saw the goblin prisoner and the tiefling aiming the crossbow at her. Maeve stepped between without question, knowing that the bolt will bounce harmlessly off of her arcane ward. The tiefling woman didn't know though, but Gale did and even then he couldn’t help but admire her courage.

• Many quiet evenings with each other as company (also the occasional story times), as well as dangerous fights later new feelings started to arise when around Gale. She hadn’t had a crush in a very long time and knowing their situation this was rather unexpected.

• On Gale's side he hadn’t met anyone who goes starry eyed at ancient artifacts or historic places. Especially the cursed kind.

• Also her excitement about finding new potion recipes as well as plants have never been more endearing.

• Her keen focus on her work made him hard not to steal all to many glances towards her when he was reading or cooking.

• She always had her hair braided, in a ponytail or mix of both so the times she let's her brown hair loose (the red highlights were starting to fade) made something stir in his chest that wasn't the orb for once.

• When she's doing alchemy some rogue strands of hair tend to caress her face that he wants to gently brush aside...

• One night she found him staring at the minor illusion of Mystra. While it was strange how she felt when he talked about her, she could understand for a wizard to be fascinated of a diety who is magic itself. What she didn’t understand were her own feelings. Every other wizard worships Mystra or has some kind of token of hers. But Gale had a rather person first hand experience. Was it truly jealousy?

• When asked to experience this raw feeling of magic, poetry and beauty she couldn’t deny it, but what she could, for the moment, were the butterflies when he walked past her so he could teach her the right incantation and somatic components to channel the Weave.

• With a precision of a surgeon she copied his movements. The sudden rush made her pleasantly surprised. Next he asked the concept of harmony and she thought of her family, only for purple light to spark and then an aurora surrounded them.

• Another rush of emotions went through her as she accidentally touched his hand when she stepped back.

"You did it. You're channeling the Weave. How does it feel?"

It was magical. Sensual even. The connection...the intimacy. She knew this is a risk, but it was hard not to convey her desire. A romantic walk on a beach, their hands in each others as they walk and admire the celestial canvas.

She would have assumed it was just her embarrassment rushing through this connection, until she felt elation and that certainly wasn't hers until Gale spoke.

"Sorry. I wasn’t expecting...but it is a pleasant image to be sure. Most pleasant, in fact. Most welcome."

• Well at least she won't have to die tonight.

• At the tiefling party though she was blindsided when some of her companions expressed their desires to spend the night with her...she even had to ask Lae'zel if she's asking what Maeve thought she's asking. Apparently treating someone like an equal and a person might send off the wrong message to someone who is deeply traumatised or had been brainwashed....or both.

• At least Karlach and Wyll didn't misread the signals.

• She approached Gale last only because of the idea of doing that made her feel nervous. He had assured her that day after that he meant what he said, but still. The nerves went away when he spoke of Tara, his tressym (not a cat) and then the loneliness of being in his tower for a year.

• It was heartwarming to hear she reminded him of someone very important to him. She would want nothing more to see her own family, even just for a moment.

• To lighten the mood she joked she's actually a nymph in disguise when regarding the comment that he should be finding more mortal friends. She couldn’t help but prolong the conversation as long as she could. After all she knew that Gale would have a chance to make a list long enough of what he likes about her until dawn. Or maybe it's just wishful thinking and her desire to listen to him longer.

• He insisted that she go and enjoy the festivities. Begrudgingly she did, ending the night fantasising about Gale.

• The Underdark was truly quite a perilous place. She had never seen such a fascinating flora and was all to eager to try to experiment with it....even if it cost her arcane ward charges in the process.

• Her dad would be disappointed in her approach, but to be fair she has no idea what kind of safety precautions she needs with these plants.

• The sussur flower was particularly interesting, as well as the bark they got for the mysterious blueprints they found. Granted when the flower nullified her magic completely it made her feel not just vulnerable, but hollow.

• The only true highlight of the Underdark was when they found the Arcane Tower and the magical construct named Bernard. Sure, Gale found the excessive use of poetry a bit too much, but she found it creative and sweet. Going through books and finding magic items set her spirits higher after trying not to get incinerated by mushrooms and exploded by traps. The sudden spectator didn't help this journey be a bit less tiring.

• As for Grymforge, when they were done with Nere it made exploring the place much easier. What wasn't easy was the fight which left more than just physical scars.

Act II

• Ever since Maeve had learned to channel her arcane ward onto others, she had been doing nothing but that, even to her own detriment.

• This made Gale worry more, especially after the Nere fight where he nearly died. This prompted Meave to focus on protecting him more than before. He didn’t have an extra suit of armor like her no matter how temporary it is.

• Protection, banishing enemies and nullifying magic is her field of expertise. Gale was very aware of the point of her chosen school of magic. She's becoming a master at a rapid pace. It was always breathtaking seeing her in action. The cold, steely focus, the magic of her wards, the pure determination and optimism despite their dire odds.

• Even still, the guilt didn't leave him and he made sure to be useful and less of a burden next time. She put trust in him, he couldn’t fail her like that again.

• It's just a matter of time when the energy of her ward runs out. He fears what will happen then.

• Their journey lead them to Shadowlands where an unexpected person waited for them...rather Gale specifically.

• You know, Maeve thought that meeting THE Elminster would have been the highlight of her wizarding career. Instead the archmage rolled in all his cheese loving glory to give the most outrageous request from Mystra. No, not a request, basically a death sentence.

• Whatever respect she had for her disintegrated in an instant. What else was completely turned to ash was her heart when Gale accepted this suicide mission without a shadow of a doubt.

• Everyone in the camp was outraged, even Shadowheart who was faithful to her goddess expressed the same sentiment. Maeve had a moment of levitity when Karlach mentioned she could go to Gale and say that she has never read book since she was a kid. Even still her heart grew heavy with dread.

• Afterwards Gale became more forthcoming about his feelings towards her at odd times. This threw her off a bit, though were also welcomed surprise. She feared that if she doesn't talk him down she's going to lose him forever. This is not the beginning of the end for them.

• As they got closer to Moonrise towers she had her own revelation or rather enlightenment. It wasn’t because she had gotten nearly drunk by whatever ghastly concoction Thisobald Thorm had made. Her mind had stayed surprisingly clear with her allies helping her. She had already accepted that no amount of divinity will save her digestive system, but somehow it stayed intact.

• The revelation in question had her reevaluate her decisions. She can't save everyone if she keeps making herself as a sacrificial lamb in every fight. She was confident in her companion fighting abilities, after all they were all doing the most damage to their enemies. She just tried to keep them safe from dangerous afflictions that magic can bestow or even spells that could do near fatal damage.

• What forced her to face this was literally facing a dark version of herself and her fellow companions. More so the latter. She knew this was a trial however seeing your evil, illusionary friends die, especially the man you care for dearly (almost love if not already), will leave a mark on your psyche.

• If she's gone she doesn't know who will step up as the next leader. She has to make sure all of them survive the fight against The Absolute. And she still has that lanceboard to finish, gods be damned.

• She's not the hope as the High Harper called her. Or really everyone in that inn. Actually she was getting quite tired of that title. And getting titles in general, mycanoids truly went over the top with them. She was already crumbling under pressure and their exploration of the Shadowlands helped her stay distracted.

• Then Mol had to get kidnapped only to prove that she can't protect everyone. It was more like a sick, cruel twist of fate. The children reactions had her have the long awaited breakdown during the night.

• She felt it coming like a storm so she made sure to be away from the camp. Scratch and the owl bear cub were surprise guests, but the emotional support she needed that night.

• She steeled herself even more. If a fight can be avoided then she will use trickery if needed. It happened with the drider, then Thisobald, then the devil Raphael didn't particularly like. Gale shared his admiration for her silver tongue, but also the slight fear.

• She hoped he didn’t mean it seriously and more as a compliment, but this made her get back to herself just a bit. A bit more feeling, a bit more emotive, a bit less fake.

• Then she saw the projection Gale had made before the fateful fight. It made her stop and collect herself, trying not to get caught in the current of the worst case scenarios.

"He wouldn’t go and face it alone." She thought to herself, gathering whatever crumbs of her courage she had left.

She followed the path Gale's projection had pointed at (she had to do everything to not go into a full sprint). Seeing him doing his magic, sitting on the grass made her feel like she could finally breathe.

"He's alive. He's here."

She had almost missed the illusion Gale had made, even if it was brightly illuminated in the sky. Her focus had only been on him, a thought nagging her mind that perhaps this is just a dream and will turn into a nightmare once she wakes.

But this wasn’t. This was real. She sat next to him and gave a hesitant smile. He started talking in a way that sounded like a goodbye more than anything else.

"You seem especially philosophical this evening. Are you all right?" She teased despite knowing full well the answer. She just wished desperately he would have a different one this time.

"I will be, soon. I am perhaps just one hard day away from being without any troubles at all. This may be my last night alive. I wanted it to be under a canopy of beauty and wonder...with company to match."

She stared at him, hanging on his every word.

"I thought this place might bring me peace. I thought it might make the weight of what I must do a little lighter...but I'm not sure."

In her life she always had a way with words. Written more than spoken though, she wasn't as eloquent as him...outside of tricking your way out of life threatening situations.

When it came to expressing her own emotions, she couldn't weave her words to make it sound like poetry...so she tried honesty.

"I refuse to believe this is the end. We'll find another way, I promise." Her desperation almost came through her voice.

She tried to convince him again, once he didn’t seem to budge at all. This is not the right way and this is not his fate. It won't be.

"Nothing is inevitable. Not when we face it together. You don't have to die."

The mood shifted, the magnetic pull she had for him got stronger. It was nothing like the connection they shared in the Weave. You don't need magic to feel the unshackled intensity of emotion...the bond they clearly shared with one another.

"I'm so very glad you came, to share this with me. I know this is all unreal, but I created it for you. You must know that you're...That you're very special to me. If things were different, if we were home, I'd have taken time to do things properly. To say it all better. But time is short. I'm in love with you."

There was no hesitation in her response. "I'm in love with you too."

The tension in his body dissipated as she smiled. "That's a relief. It would be a shame to spend my final hours making an ass of myself."

Previously when she had kissed anyone she had never really felt anything. It was just another thing couples tend to do. But maybe it was the danger, maybe the uncertainty of their future that made their kiss spark a fire in her.

"I hope this wasn’t a parting kiss."

"Not if I have any say in the matter."

She knew the desire to make things perfect, but to bond in a way gods do? She wanted the real him, the man behind all of these grand illusions he had created. She wasn't a goddess he needed to 'wow'.

Still she decided to indulge him and he created a projection of his home. It was finally nice to have a picture painted more clearly of the place he lived in.

She was all to engrossed in everything, especially the part about books and the enchanted piano. The last thing that made her grin the most was the sunset. How she missed it...it was almost like she felt the warmth from the ray of lights.

Then the underlying melancholy breached this blissful ignorance. She sat down, making him turn his attention towards her.

"My favourite spot. Many times, evening turned to night and back to daybreak once more while I sat here, lost in words."

He mentioned a book called "Art of night". Of course leave it to him to seduce someone with a book. She wasn't someone who particularly enjoyed such physical intimacy. It wasn’t the first thing she desired to do with her partner or the tenth for that matter.

The thought of having the stars be their bed and intertwining souls, while sounded magical, it didn't make her think of the act all the more romantic. Perhaps it's the wood elf side of her talking.

Nevertheless she allowed her soul to drift what might be the Astral Plane just to feel what it is like and it confirmed to her that truly the best illusion would be a physical bed and their skins touching each other. This was all impressive, but she noticed perhaps it's finally time to show him how pleasant bonding as mortals can truly be.

~

If you made it this far, congratulations. Here's a cookie 🍪.

Rest of Act II and III might be coming at some point *shrugs*. Honestly I just needed to write this out, as mentioned at the start. Now I feel more sane and can focus on my writing projects.

[yallcantread]

Going away from Matty, if you want, curious about your opinion on Taylor's activism. A lot of people taking issue with the relationship point out how much of an activist she is...but I tend to disagree on her actual level of activism / allyship.

She hasn't said anything recently, to my best knowledge, on the drag ban in her home state or in regards to the anti-trans legislation occurring across the nation.

Personally, I don't care if celebrities speak out on political issues, until they say they want to be an activist or be more political like she did in Miss Americana. I also agree with what Matty previously said about her activism in that era being safe.

I just feel, if that's the justification for hating the relationship, it's unfounded. Hope that makes sense.

People often confuse the distinction between acts of activism and being an activist. Here’s a simple way to explain it, kinda long but

While everyone in the world holds passionate opinions, it’s important to recognize that being passionate about something doesn’t automatically make you an activist. Merely speaking up about an issue or displaying symbols like a gay flag at a concert doesn’t make one an activist. Such actions simply indicate awareness of and support for the respective cause or community, in this case, the LGBT community. It’s a way of expressing solidarity and making a statement, but true activism involves deeper engagement and sustained efforts to bring about tangible change.

We often label individuals as "activists" when they speak out on particular issues, but we tend to become disappointed when they don't address other matters. It's important to understand that being an activist is more than just a label—it can be seen as a job. Although it may not follow the traditional job structure, activism requires consistent focus and dedication. There's a distinction between engaging in acts of activism and truly embodying the role of an activist. While stating support for gay rights is commendable, it can seem somewhat ordinary compared to the impactful work undertaken by dedicated activists. Supporting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community is essential, but it's important to recognize that activism involves going beyond surface-level statements.

Encouraging people to vote is an important civic duty, but it alone does not qualify someone as an activist. In that sense, Taylor Swift, who I genuinely mean this in a good way, is not an activist. It’s worth noting that very few celebrities can be considered activists because activism is not their primary job or responsibility. While they may have genuine concerns and care deeply about certain causes, their roles as entertainers or public figures do not automatically make them activists.

For instance, I personally care about the environment, and I make efforts to reduce littering and practice recycling. However, these actions alone do not make me a climate rights activist. To be considered an activist, one must engage in more significant and focused efforts toward creating change. While it is admirable to have love and concern for the environment, it may not be sufficient to label oneself as an activist in that specific area.

There are distinct categories within the realm of social activism. On one hand, there are individuals who engage in occasional acts of activism, which may include small gestures of support or raising awareness about a particular cause. On the other hand, there are dedicated activists who actively campaign, write letters, organize protests, marches, strikes, and boycotts. They tirelessly work to address social issues, sometimes facing challenges like fundraising efforts that often go unnoticed.

Ideally, the responsibility for driving social change should rest with the politicians, and legislators. They are in positions of influence and have the potential to bring about significant impact. However, it is often observed that these figures may not fully embrace their roles as activists, failing to address the pressing social issues at hand. In essence, activism goes beyond superficial gestures and requires substantial commitment and action. It involves actively working towards resolving societal challenges and pushing for positive change.

Expecting Taylor Swift to be an activist is unrealistic. While she may choose to pursue activism if she desires, it is challenging for her to balance both being a singer and a full-fledged activist. Furthermore, as a highly successful artist with considerable financial resources, she would bear greater responsibility and face higher expectations in terms of achieving tangible results in her activism endeavors. It is important to recognize the complexity and demands associated with being an effective activist, particularly when one possesses substantial influence and resources.

A notable ex ample of a celebrity activist is Angelina Jolie (happy birthday!), who is renowned for her humanitarian efforts. She consistently advocates for marginalized communities and actively engages in behind-the-scenes actions to promote positive change. Unlike some celebrities, she doesn’t intertwine her activism with her acting career. By prioritizing her humanitarian work over movie projects, she avoids the perception of performative activism. Angelina Jolie’s commitment to social causes is evident in her production of films that shed light on the issues she deeply cares about. Despite occasional media attention on her personal life, driven by external narratives, she maintains a focus on her philanthropic endeavors. This approach allows her to be taken seriously as an activist and underscores the significance of dedicated efforts outside of her acting profession.

While Taylor Swift is known for expressing her support for various causes, it would be inaccurate to label her as an activist. She is an individual with positive beliefs and uses her platform to promote awareness and inclusivity. However, it’s important not to overstate her role or hold unrealistic expectations. Praiseworthy (not really) as her stance on issues like gay rights and other minority rights may be, it’s crucial to recognize that we only see a fraction of someone’s life and values. It’s unfair to place constant demands or expectations on public figures, as we may not fully understand their personal circumstances or the extent of their involvement in activism. It’s important to appreciate their efforts while recognizing that activism goes beyond individual expressions of support.

Taylor Swift creates a safe and inclusive environment for her fans, particularly those from marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ community. While she holds her own beliefs and uses her platform to support causes, it would be unrealistic to expect her to be a full-fledged activist. It's important to appreciate the positive impact she has on her fans and the support she offers. However, the role of an activist involves consistent and focused efforts beyond individual expressions of support. Labeling Taylor Swift as an activist would overlook the complexities and responsibilities that come with that role.

[thenewfuture]

I honestly just wish this chapter didn't make me feel like an idiot for getting so invested in Arei as a character. She was genuinely very well-written and had a great arc, but not only has she hardly felt like an actual part of the story, she's been sidelined hard by all the other nonsense in this chapter.

I could care less if my theory's wrong, it was a long shot anyway. I just feel like I wasted my time and everyone else's time with it, made most of the DT fandom hate me, and with everyone who did believe me, I feel like I got their expectations up for nothing.

Sure, she didn't get it as bad as some characters I can name, but I almost feel stupid for caring so much if she was never even going to be an active part of this chapter. I wanted to see her grow and develop, and all we get are sad flashbacks.

I never wanted it to be a competition, I just wanted Arei to be given her narrative dues. It's just really disheartening to me and I don't know how to feel about it all

Sorry if this got kinda venty ^^; -Mod Bubbles

First off, let give you a virtual hug because it sounds like you need it.

And secondly, let me apologize again for all the strain and stress you went through over the course of the hiatus about your theories and such. No one deserved the shit you went through because of that.

And let me say again I've always valued your analysis, insight and knowledge about these things. You've proven time and time again your way smarter than I am and come to conclusions I never would have thought of or conceived. Even if I had my own reservations about certain things or evidence you brought up, I could clearly see your passion and logic from it, and I admire that.

And I'm again sorry for what happened with Arei. I understand it's tough losing a favorite character in the end. It's an experience that comes with the DanganRonpa franchise, or any murder mystery genre in general. But please don't feel stupid or beat yourself up for getting invested in a character. Ever. It's not worth it and it won't make anything better. Arei still had plenty of great moments throughout her time in show. And like always there's always fanfiction or potential FTEs to get more out of her that can explored and shared.

And don't feel like you wasted anybody's time either. Time doing what you love or thinking with clear, rational and reasonable thought about the mystery is never time wasted. Not on you or anyone else you share it with.

But it looks like Arei is going to joining the Mean Girls club right alongside Natsumi and Ruruka. But it's okay though, she'll always be remembered and in our hearts.

-Mod