#and i finally stranded her on the other side of the river while she was hunting and abandoned the fortress to ruin

[paxcallow]

idea for a game i thought about while on the appalachian trail this year.

ÜPPS: unoye parks preservation society! you're an alien going on a pilgrimage along the great unoye trail, but you get conscripted by a gang of kids trying to preserve conserve the parks along the route. not really sure about the gameplay, but i think something like TOEM and chicory: a colorful tale. meeting and helping people out of jams. healing nature. enjoying nature. that kind of stuff.

[eyesfullofsttars]

MEDIEVAL ELLABS PLS IM BEGGING 🙏🙏🙏

All our weight is just a burden offered to us by the world... If i fall, I only pray, don't fall away from me.

The weight of her responsibilities and expectations was evident in the bruises left by her heavy armor. Abigail Anderson, the King's favored knight, always led the charge in combat, returning to the realm triumphant, her blade felling every menace with ease. She traversed each path with bravery, destined to defend the vulnerable.

Her noble heart compelled her to keep a vigilant eye on Ellie Williams. Scorned by the authorities but cherished by the people who watched her grow, Ellie’s prowess was matched only by her impatience and recklessness, laughing in the face of peril without hesitation.

Partnering with Williams often caused Abigail stress. She constantly rode close behind, her hand near her weapon, ready to defend against any threat. Ellie was forced to follow tedious, familiar routes, Abigail's caution preventing them from straying into unknown territory.

Training together was frequently exhausting. Ellie’s sarcastic humor lightened the atmosphere, but her competitive nature often made Abigail roll her eyes in amusement and disbelief.

“Whoever disarms the other first wins,” Ellie declared, adjusting her short auburn hair, tucking stray strands behind her ear while twirling her sharp blade.

“Williams, be careful with that,” Abby murmured, leaving Ellie unsure if she referred to the challenge or her playful handling of the weapon capable of ending any foe’s life.

Typically, Abigail's honed technique prevailed. Yet, when Ellie triumphed, her exuberant celebrations were unending. Abby found this both perplexing and amusing, seeing Ellie so overjoyed.

On the battlefield, their connection was unmatched, forming an exceptional team. Likely, this was why the King tolerated Williams despite her rebellious streak. Abby was willing to sacrifice herself for anyone, preferring it over attending funerals and seeking divine forgiveness. She found a reason to endure in Ellie, who would slay five men to keep Abby alive.

Neither woman said goodbye before facing adversaries, accepting success as inevitable, returning together to celebrate. Their plans succeeded, combining Abby’s strategic brilliance and flawless technique with Ellie’s agility and ferocity, her arrows ending every danger.

For Ellie, fighting for survival turned into a guarantee of safety, knowing Abby always had her back. In return, she followed Abby’s orders with unwavering loyalty, grateful for the privilege of protection.

At day’s end, they shed their burdensome gear, exhausted. Sometimes, they collapsed in the meadow near the river, in the wild forests that felt less intimidating to those who belonged there.

Lying in the grass, basking in the sunlight side by side, Williams initiated contact. She set aside her sword to gently untangle Abby’s neat blonde braid, freeing her long, wavy hair. Ellie carefully removed each piece of armor with patience and tenderness, not wanting to cause any discomfort.

When Abigail began to protest, Ellie quickly silenced her. “Shh, it's alright. I’m here,” she whispered softly, gazing at Abby with her longing verdant eyes, needing to do this for her. “You’ve carried the weight long enough. Let me take care of you.”

Ellie’s veined hands freed Abby from every burden, granting her a moment of celestial respite. Stripped of her gleaming armor, she remained in her light, sweat-soaked shirt from the constant battles.

“Let me… let me,” Abigail stammered, reaching out to Ellie, her chest heaving with each breath.

But Williams shook her head slowly, running her hands through Abby’s loose hair, cradling her face. “No, Anderson. Let me do this. You deserve to rest.”

Despite her duties as a knight bound to loyalty to the crown, Abigail Anderson finally had a reason beyond protecting the kingdom. She had someone who understood her and allowed her to be vulnerable. Ellie Williams, never belonging to anyone, a child of nature, now had a place to call home, knowing someone would always be there to care for her and let her love without merely surviving, but truly living.

[petricorah]

zukka ficlet - knee pain 1.6k

“Bleeding hog monkeys,” Sokka cursed through gritted teeth as the leather strap on his knee brace finally snapped off. It had been weakened in their last fight with Fire Nation stragglers. A few groups were less than excited about the new fire lord’s orders—aka, to stop the attempt at world domination—and had finally decided to fight back. The gaang had been traveling the past few months to subdue them. Sokka insisted he was going to help, even though his knee, still wounded from falling during their fight with the airships, wasn’t as agreeable than his mind. Putting aside his slight lack of speed and faulty reactions in battle, it was causing him insurmountable pain. He had engineered a knee brace to help, and it had reduced the stress on his joints and allowed him to fight closer to his previous abilities, but the brace was now nothing more than a tattered mess of singed leather and half melted buckles.

Sokka balled up the frayed array of straps and chuckled it into the river he was sitting next to—an action that sent pain clambering up his leg, and making him yelp with a certain high pitched sound that certainly wasn’t manly.

“Sokka?”

Sokka immediately flinched into upright position. “Z-Zuko,” he chirped, attempting to casually lean against the rock he was standing near as Zuko emerged from the woods. “Fire Lord Zuko. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Zuko rolled his eyes and walked up. “I told you to stop calling me that." He came to a stop in front of him, and Sokka couldn't help but admire him. His hair was getting even longer now, and it suited him.

It had been quite some time since the coronation. Lots of time together, working to undo the damage his father had done. Both by his side in the fire nation as his ambassador, and now, traveling again. So much had changed, and while he certainly looked more regal now, with his long hair and patterned robes, he still made Sokka's heart race like he had at boiling rock all that time ago. Perhaps even more so, as they'd continued to get closer as they worked—

"Dinner’s almost gone, and you weren’t back yet.” A teasing smile played at Zuko's lips, despite his attempts to appear stoic and wise. “I thought you were stuck in a hole.”

“Hey!” Sokka said, with an accusing wave of his finger. “You weren’t there for that.”

“Toph told me,” Zuko said. “Several times.”

Sokka clicked his tongue in embarrassment, feeling his cheeks warm. Damn Toph. In an attempt to make up for her and Zuko’s lack of a life-changing bonding trip, she’d taken to telling any story that made Zuko laugh—and most of those tended to be at Sokka’s expense.

“But I see you’re above ground,” Zuko said, his golden eyes passing over Sokka, seeming to glow in the dim light. “And in one piece. So what’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong,” Sokka said with a fake lofty air.  

“You’re missing dinner,” Zuko said. “And it’s pig hen, your favorite.”

He never could get anything past him.

Sokka sighed in defeat and blew air to move a strand of hair from his face. “My knee hurts. I was trying to fix the brace, and I couldn’t, so it’s going to hurt more until I can get materials to make a new one.”

“You told Katara it didn’t hurt.” The words came in Zuko’s standoffish deadpan. Sometimes it was hard to tell when Zuko was just stating a fact in his rough voice or when he was being belligerent.

“Yeah, well. She’s having fun with Aang tonight. They’re all gross and obnoxiously lovey-dovey.” His looked away, at anything other than Zuko’s intense expression. Maybe if he studied the ants on the ground enough it would teleport him out of this conversation. “I’m not going to ruin that by making her bend water over my knee for an hour and then be all worried after.” He shook his head, and then met Zuko’s eyes again with what he hoped was a convincing smile. “It’s fine.”

Zuko’s stare was unnervingly sharp. Deadly. It was similar to the look he used to give them when they were about to fight, or the look he gave conniving fire lord generals who were faithful to his father’s old ways. Like he was really fucking angry and the only thing stopping him from setting things ablaze was Iroh’s voice in his head telling him to breathe.

But in an instant, it was gone.

“I’ll do it,” Zuko said curtly.

Sokka snorted. “You’ll do what?”

“I’ll work on your knee.”

“Yeah, thanks, but I don’t need my skin melted. When I do, I’ll give you a call.”

“Pain relief,” Zuko corrected, glaring at him like it should have been obvious that Zuko wasn't suggesting amputation by agonizing flame. “I’ve been…working on it. Uncle said the elements can learn from each other, so I figured there must be a way. I know your knee has been hurting so…I’ve been practicing.” He nervously rubbed the back of his hair. “It will help. Make it feel better, if only for a bit.”

Sokka blinked, staring at him with wide eyes. Zuko did all that for him? For him?

But Zuko’s pointed gaze snapped back to him, making Sokka’s heart flinch.

“It isn’t a choice. Either you do it with me or you ask Katara.” He stalked forward, almost threateningly, making Sokka take a half step back. “It would have been in a better place by now if you had rested at first. You can’t keep hurting yourself and pretending like it doesn’t matter—”

“Okay,” Sokka said, putting his hands up with a gentle laugh. Only Zuko would show he cared by trying to intimidate Sokka into taking care of himself. “Okay, we’ll do it.” He snorted, trying to offset the real emotions he was feeling with a joke. “What am I gonna do, run away from you?”

Zuko’s eyes narrowed. “That’s not funny.”

Sokka blinked. Maybe it would have been funnier if he hadn’t landed on his bad knee after saving Zuko from an arrow, but that was neither here nor there.

So he gave in and sat down, awkwardly, not knowing exactly how to react at what was about to happen.

Zuko knelt in front of him, which was already an image that made Sokka’s head spin, and then he rolled up Sokka’s pant leg, making Sokka’s entire body tense in embarrassment. But he didn’t stop him. He was just relieved that Zuko was so concentrated on his knee that he wasn’t noticing how much Sokka was blushing.

Zuko did a small motion with his hand, and flames erupted from his palm. But he concentrated, his eyes narrowed, and the bright orange fire subsided into a snaking ring that began to spin, controlled and glowing. It almost…moved like water.

Zuko placed it above Sokka’s knee, enough so the warmth radiated across his skin but didn’t burn.

Sometimes Sokka couldn’t fathom it. That someone he used to hate, sometimes even fear, was now someone he trusted so completely he’d allow him to not only bend next to him, but use it to help him, now, when he was vulnerable.

The heat was intense. Not unpleasant, but intense. Almost like it was blocking out the pain as it radiated up his leg, settling in his chest.

He let out a sigh, slowly settling into the position as the tension seeped from his shoulders. He hadn’t felt this painless in…a long time.

“I…I never did say thank you,” Zuko murmured. Zuko’s lashes were long, eyes downcast as he worked the flames under his hands. “For earlier.”

“You better not be doing this because you feel guilty,” he said. “Because I’ve saved your life about a hundred times by now. With that logic, you’ll be doing me favors until we’re both old men.”

Zuko chuckled. It was a low, good sound. A sound that made Sokka feel like he won a prize every time he earned it. A sound that made Sokka want to drop everything else and just focus on making Zuko smile.

“Gladly,” Zuko said with a low smile. “I’d do pretty much anything for you, Sokka.”

Sokka stilled, everything else fading from his view as he met Zuko’s golden eyes.

“But I’m not doing this out of guilt,” he continued. The heat pressed on, and the pain was gone from his mind. “I’m doing this so you don’t stubbornly give yourself chronic pain. Because I care about your knee,” he said. The flames dimmed, but his hand still glowed, and he slowly placed his palm against his knee. Sokka could feel the heat, and his heart was squeezing in his chest—

“And I care about you.”

His hand was still there. It was a marvel that Sokka’s brain was still functioning enough to form the thought that Zuko’s hand was on his knee as he stared up at him, saying that he cared about him.

Now. He should tell him he loves him now, right now, before he lost his nerve, again—

“Zuko, I…”

“We should get back,” Zuko said with a breeziness that Aang would have been proud of, and Sokka felt a rush of cold air as Zuko’s hand left him. Zuko stood, brushing himself off.

Sokka’s stomach dropped with a mixture of alarm and disappointment as the moment went up in smoke before his eyes. “Thanks,” he managed to blurt out.

“No problem,” he said. “Just one of the hundred of favors I owe you, right?”

“Right,” Sokka said in a faint voice. He let out a nervous, bubbling laugh. “We’ll have to grow old together just so you have time to make it all even.”

“Wouldn’t want it any other way.” Zuko smiled warmly. Of course it was warm. Everything about Zuko was warm.

Spirits. This would be the death of him, wouldn’t it? Loving this man who was so dense he would never catch onto any of Sokka’s flirting, and being so helplessly and terrifyingly in love he’d rather take an arrow to the heart than risk ruining their friendship? Was this just his fate now?

He stood, and subsequently staggered, his legs wobbly from a reason completely different than the pain from earlier, but Zuko steadied him. His warm hands holding his arm, the other on the small of his back, and he was so close that Sokka could smell the scent of smoke that followed him.

“You good?” Zuko’s voice was tinged with concern, sparking in his ear. “Is it still in pain?”

“No,” Sokka said quickly. “Just getting…used to it. It feels better. It feels great. I-I can’t wait for you to do it again.” Please.

Zuko blinked, some unreadable shock in his eyes at the words that had just tumbled from Sokka’s mouth, but his smile twitched onto his face. “I’m glad it worked,” he said. “And I can carry you. If it helps.”

Sokka’s face lit up in a blush and he smacked Zuko’s chest. “I do not need you to carry me.” I certainly couldn’t handle you carrying me. “Just…this. This is enough.”

Zuko readjusted, allowing Sokka to hold onto his forearm, the two slowly making their way back to camp. The pain from his knee was distant as he talked to Zuko about the earlier battles, relishing in ever laugh that he got.

Yeah.

This would be enough.

[sokkadora]

bad for business — mizu x fem!reader

summary: she’s good for my heart, but she’s bad for business!

a/n: first fic of the year :3 also remember to pirate this show because the creators are violent zionists!!!

wc: 590

warning(s): fluff, angst, mizu being sad :<

from the river to the sea, palestine will be free 🇵🇸

requests are open!

︿︿︿︿︿︿ ✎ᝰ . . . .

Mizu stared blankly at the wall on the other side of the room from your shared bed, wishing that her mind could be half as empty as her expression.

She sighed deeply and turned her head to look to you— your bare back turned to her, skin almost glistening in the moonlight emitting from the window as your form rose and fell with slow and steady breaths. A far cry from your condition before the both of you had left for London.

She reached over and tucked a loose strand of hair behind your ear, her finger brushing against the scar on your cheek. She almost smiled at the memory of how it got there— accidentally slicing your cheek while teaching you to duel with a sword. It was your bad in her defense; you just had to use those stupid beautiful eyes on her.

Sighing, she shifted her focus back to the wooden walls of the ship, and tried to push the images of you on the brink of death from her mind.

The two of you had finally caught up with Fowler, but you’d split up and ending up getting wounded badly by the man before she’d found the both of you. As if she didn’t have enough of a reason to hate him.

Bruised ribs, a concussion, and a stab wound from an arrow of your own crafting through your stomach were not a fun combination to experience. So she’d been told by you, at least.

She wished she’d just been cruel enough to leave you behind. Let you freeze to death or get eaten by wolves, so she didn’t have to feel this guilt over having the only person she gives a shit about get wounded for the sake of her revenge trip.

Love was a death trap.

You’d have thought after Mikio, that would’ve been jammed through her damn skull. But then she met you.

The only thing that gave her a reason to make it out of the other side of this mission.

Maybe she should send you on the next boat back to Japan. Yeah; once they landed in London, she’d do anything she had to in order to get you back home and away from her.

A soft grunt pulled her from her head, slowly turning her head towards you as you turned your head back and hummed.

“Hey,” She whispers through the dark, squinting as you started turning to face her while laying on your right side. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“You didn’t,” You rasped, eyes still closed as you reached out for her and hugged her forearm to your chest. “I felt like you weren’t here and got worried.” You grumbled against her arm, letting out a nearly blissful sigh.

She falls silent, the guilt for even thinking— fathoming the thought to leave you behind started to gnaw at her now.

She calls your name softly, causing you to hum through your sleepiness curiously.

“I…” She swallows, throat bobbing. “I love you.”

You respond, with zero hesitation. She always believed she was an impossible to love; she was an Onryō, a demon, a godforsaken woman who had been cursed to live a life her on this miserable world…

“I love you too.” You smile against her arm, “So much.”

And you loved her like it was breathing.

She couldn’t leave you behind.

She watches you slip under the heavenly covers of sleep with a smile on your lips before ripping her gaze away from you again.

“Shit.”

[jaemified]

through the window (21 days) - lee chan

“waiting 21 days isnt so bad if itll always end like this.”

pairing ; lee chan x fem!reader

genre ; fluff but pretty cheesy fluff, strangers to lovers, neighbors to lovers, not a smau but twt profiles are showed

warnings ; swearing, floods, isolation, separation, chans flirty (thats a warning in itself), reader has zero relationship experience

wordcount ; 2.7k

synopsis ; after a long series of floods, youre finally able to meet the boy across the street who had caught your eye throughout the long few weeks.

note - chan isnt an idol but minnie/soyeon are

note 2 - idk what chan is looking at in that pic

read below the cut !

DECEMBER 8, 2023

winter, also known as flood season.

the town where you lived in was already at a low altitude, so the bridge built to cross over the river to the other side of the street always had submerged during this time of year.

the thing that sucked the most about all this, was you were pretty much rained in for however long it takes for the water to drain with absolutely no way out.

so naturally, you all had came prepared.

your roommates minnie and soyeon never minded all the rain as they hated going in to work at the crack of dawn, yet you however, loved what you did. tutoring a kids after school program wasnt half as bad as the average person might think.

but, of course seeing as they were all a bunch of middle school kids, they could be a handful. you decided to listen to your friends and use these next few weeks to relax.

or, what you thought relaxing was.

“come on y/n! dont you wanna make strawberry shortcake with us?” minnie yelled at you over soyeons loud music while you studied over the next lesson plan for your kids.

“maybe later- i really wanna get a head start on these lessons.”

“seriously y/n?” soyeon murmured in slight disgust, “i seriously doubt the first thing those kids want to be thinking about is what they’re gonna do with their math tutor after a free half month.”

you shrugged and took a sip of your coffee before typing in the highlighted notes from the handbook into your computer.

“come on. youre not spending our one free break of the year like this again!” soyeon exclaimed as she snatched the book out of your hands, then closing your laptop before putting them both away in the cabinet under the tv.

“you know i can just get that myself right?”

“no, because i won’t let you.” she replied, locking the door and putting the key in her pocket.

“come on! im passionate about what i do, i dont mind it at all!”

“me and minnie are passionate about writing songs too, but even we know when its good enough to take a break.”

“okay i know i don’t work half as hard as idols do but i still have bills to come by! besides, corporate management demands i have the next lesson plan finalized before the end of the week!”

“corporates a bitch, they gotta be more mindful of how they treat their employees. like how do you be top tutoring company in the country and you still cant manage your employees the way they deserve?” minnie shouted in frustration.

“and dont worry about bills for now, we got it.” soyeon whispered to you.

“minnie- you realize cube is the same way to you guys right? and you work way harder then i do despite not getting the income you deserve.”

“yeah but we manage. we have a contract anyway. i know we’re passionate about what we do but we most certainly are not passionate about who we work for.” soyeon replied for minnie as she couldn’t hear over the sound of the blender (why was she using a blender again?)

you sigh soaking in how much pressure your friends are under at work, realizing you don’t even have it half as bad despite having a pretty shitty boss.

“how bout you find someone worth crossing an ocean for? itll be half as fun for us as itd be for you, since it’s in our contract we aren’t allowed to date.” minnie spoke after the whirring of the kitchen appliances died down.

“how.. we are entirely stranded until however long it takes for this stupid flood to drain.”

“do some stalking on insta. let’s find you like uh.. celebrity crush or ulzzang you can fan girl over or something.”

you scoffed in annoyance and slight disgust with your friends knowing you never really cared for any of that.

you decided to sit down at the bay window by the front door, scrolling through your phone before something outside caught your eye.

there you saw a guy across the way, sitting in his bay window just like you, he who seemingly just finished receiving a lecture from his friends.

you watched as he ran a hand through his fluffy dark brown hair, before he turned your way, your eyes locking.

immediately, it was part of your instinct to nervously turn away.

before slowly looking back, that is.

there you found the beautiful brown haired boy, still looking at you, with a golden smile.

your heart melted (but you thought you were having palpitations) when you saw him look at you so fondly.

what is this feeling?

you slowly raise a hand, and wave to him shyly.

he waved back, before forming a heart with his arms he held over his head.

you laughed quiet enough so your friends couldn’t hear you, but your facial expressions were bright enough so he could be aware he was able to make you laugh.

the boy laughed in response before he seemed to mouth something, but you weren’t the best at reading lips.

you tilted your head in confusion before he jokingly rolled his eyes, and saying it again, but slower.

“cu-tie.” you realized he said, or attempted to say.

“cu-tie?” you sounded out, making sure you understood right.

he nodded before pointing at you, his finger tapping against the glass, “cutie.”

he absolutely reveled in the way you smiled so brightly, the way your cheeks flushed pink and your eyes sparkled with excitement.

you didnt even realize how you were falling for his charms.

before you were even able to say anything back, his friend came up from behind him, attempting to drag him away, yet the guy was still persistent.

you watched how his friend started to get angry, so the guy rolled his eyes and stood up, walking away with his friend down the hall.

but not before waving back at you, blowing a kiss.

you got up from your seat before wrapping your arms around minnie, resting your head on her shoulder while you spared a small glance at whatever soyeon was watching in the living room.

“hmm? what do you need now my child?” she dramatically questioned, as she knew you only got clingy when you needed something.

“whos that guy that lives across the.. on the other side of the bridge? in that dark brown house with the black roof?”

“oh? house 133 right? thats seokmin, minghao, and.. what’s the other ones name? I always forget.. chan! yeah, chan.”

soyeon jumped up in surprise, pausing her show after hearing you pique your interest at a guy for the first time.

“why? you like one of them? which one? minghao? he was pretty well liked for a foreigner. he was in the same exchange program as minnie. ” she excitedly asked.

“w-what? no! i was just asking cause i saw one of them out there earlier.” you unconvincingly lied.

“oh she totally likes minghao.” “not even!”

“sweetheart, we aren’t as dumb as you think we are.” minnie pouted at you while she pulled away to put the cake in the oven.

you huffed in disbelief before going to take a bag of chips from the pantry, walking down to your room to finish the lesson plan. (on the laptop your boss lent you since soyeon took your personal one).

meanwhile, there you left chan, day dreaming about you all day long. he was so curious about you, yet he felt so stupid for crushing on some girl he’d never spoken to before.

not like he even could at this point, you were stuck in the middle of a flood, anyway.

“whats on your mind channie? you seem out of it.” seokmin asked while he blindly stirred the tteokbokki, turning to face the younger boy behind him, sitting at the kitchen island.

“its chan. whens he not out of it?” minghao chuckled, throwing a chip at his cheek, sliding to sit over at the stool next to him as he emerged from his bedroom.

“who lives in that white house on the other side of the bridge? isnt that where soyeon lives? we went to high school together.” chan half-mindedly queried, zoning out as he stared into the marble counters.

“yeah, why?” minghao responded.

“did she move out or something? there was another girl there and it wasnt soyeon or minnie.”

“oh, you mean y/n? she graduated a year before you or something, but at another school. we used to work at the same tea house before she left for that tutoring agency.”

“y/n? sounds vaguely familiar. i think i remember seungkwan mention her being in his class.”

“why are you mentioning her all of a sudden? you never cared for girls.” seokmin teased with a wide smile.

“oh come on. you know he’s quite the flirt.” minghao playfully cooed at chan, dramatically waving his hand back at seokmin.

“you two are insufferable.” he groaned, banging his head against the counter.

you found yourself up at night, scrolling through twitter before you decided to search for the guy you ‘met’ today. minghao, was it?

‘xu minghao’ was what you had entered into the search bar, clicking on the top result.

‘myunghoez’

‘huh.’ you thought to yourself. so it couldnt be him, but seokmin didnt seem to have an account as you searched for his name.

you looked up chans name next, thinking maybe,, that there could be a chance it’s him. his profile picture was technically him, but not, him. but in your defense, how could you tell who was who if chans profile picture was a baby picture?

though you knew youd never hear the end of it from her, you decided to ask soyeon.

“do you have a picture of chan?”

“yeah hold on. its just an old screenshot from an old tweet though.” she mumbled before pulling up her phone to show you.

‘wow.’ you thought to yourself, ‘so this really was the guy i met today.’

before soyeon could ask any questions, you quickly thanked her and ran back to your room before posting a small something in reference to what minnie had said to you earlier.

days, weeks, went by of you and chan interacting through the window despite never seeing each other up close, or ever hearing the others voice.

but despite being isolated from separately, you still had fallen for one another nonetheless.

you loved the way you would feel butterflies in your stomach whenever he made a heart with his hands for you, and he absolutely adored the way you in the end would just make a big sign telling him what you wanted to say when you gave up on trying to get him to read your lips.

of course the flood had its downside, i mean being stuck with the same 2 other people for almost a month definitely takes a toll on you, isolation definitely can get depressing with no way out.

but in the end, it had its upside as well. you were able to meet a great guy despite never technically talking face to face, having only lip reading to communicate (why didn’t you think of social media?). not to mention you were able to put more time into a forgotten passion after all of your energy being used up as a tutor.

marine animals.

you and chan had technically discussed the idea of possibly having a first date when you get out of here, yet you still hadn’t decided where you’d go or what you’d do seeing as you both were pretty passionate about different things.

chan had always loved the stars, you had always loved marine life. but, you decided you would finalize a date night once you both get to meet face to face.

DECEMBER 29

after a long 21 days of disappointment, spending christmas without your family, 3 going on 4 weeks of crazed loneliness, you finally woke up one morning to find the overflowing river, drained, and to its regular level.

you were able to see the bridge once more and though the wood might be rotting, you just couldnt wait to cross it.

you immediately ran down the hall, dressing however best you could, fixing your hair to be as best as it would go, being sure to brush your teeth and pop in a mint before running straight out the door. (and ignoring all of soyeons questions as well as minnies protests)

as you stepped out the front door, you saw chan just leaving his house looking as beautiful as ever.

you ran straight for the bridge, chan catching you before you could slip on a puddle before he picked you up into a big hug.

“you’re just as gorgeous up close as you were through a window.” he whispered as he pulled you close, his hand cradling the back of your head, pulling it to rest against his chest.

“and you’re still just as much of a flirt arent you?” you chuckled before slightly cringing at your attempt to reciprocate the excitement.

you were excited, believe me, just couldn’t express it as well as he could.

“i cant believe it took 21 days to finally be with you.”

“it was worth the wait wasnt it?”

“you’ll always be worth the wait.” chan mumbled against your skin as he pressed a soft kiss into your cheek.

“cant believe you’re real..” you mumbled, leaning further into his touch.

“cant believe i got someone like you to fall for someone like me.”

“chan you’re so cheesy.”

“only for you.” he replied with that stupid grin you grew to love so much.

the two of you later took the time to talk more about life, each other, finally exchange numbers, then eventually decide what you’d do for your first date night.

“see you tomorrow at 12?”

“tomorrow at 12.”

DECEMBER 30

you practically couldn’t sleep as you bubbled in excitement. you picked out a pretty black dress that went nicely with a random pair of white sneakers before heading out on your way while your roommates were out at work.

“lookin as pretty as always.” chan smiled while he opened his car door for you.

“still as handsome as ever arent you?” you jokingly rolled your eyes as he backed out the parking lot.

you two had many common interests, yet what you were most passionate about definitely was pretty parallel to one another.

chan loved the stars, you loved the sea. so, you decided to go to an aquarium (that also included solar system exhibits), grab some food from a cafe you found out you both loved, go for a late drive to the beach, watch the sunset, then stargaze.

call it cliche but it was perfect for you both.

chan wrapped an arm around you as you both stared into the night sky, all the stars displayed beautifully.

he would point at a random star and say it reminded him of you, because it stood out from the rest, distinct, but perfect in his eyes.

he was the sweetest guy ever, perfectly fitting the standard for what’s considered boyfriend material, almost unrealistic, even.

“youre a person worth crossing an ocean for.” you told him more then truthfully, bringing a hand up to softly stroke his cheek.

“out of all the stars in the sky, youre the only one id pick.” he cringed realizing how corny it was. “too cheesy?”

“just enough.” you reassured, before sealing both yours and his lips into a warm and comforting kiss. chan had never felt safer in another’s embrace.

“waiting 21 days isnt so bad if itll always end like this.”

[the-letterbox-archives]

file (1)ALL-56-0190: most likely to

i've been sent this one a lot, glad i finally got around to it! this is a 'most likely to' tag game, where you answer which of your characters is most likely to do a certain thing as per the prompt. everyone's in the ring for this one!

thank you @the-golden-comet, @drchenquill, @urnumber1star, @willtheweaver, @ominous-feychild,

@paeliae-occasionally, @moltenwrites, and @gioiaalbanoart for tagging me!!

(warning: very long post)

1) most likely to faint

laszlo is pretty-fainting-victorian-woman coded, so i’d have to say him. sorry, bud.

2) most likely to enjoy art

if we mean creating art, it’s sunny (i hc she does nature/animal drawings in her spare time), if we mean appreciating art, it’s yaromyr (because he’s a softie and loves a good painting).

3) most likely to hate sports

daphne all the way. she has faked many sicknesses to get out of pe.

4) most likely to freeze if faced with something scary

either sunny or laszlo in the canon of their stories, but overall i’d go with ven.

5) most likely to eat the last bite of something

eira, he’s always got to have the last piece.

6) most likely to start an argument

so many of them. faye, sunny, sissy, sinon, danareth, eira, austine, maybe laszlo, and dulcinea, to single out some of the worst offenders.

7) most likely to own a cat

ven is a cat person for sure, theophania as well, though more in spirit, since it’d be hard for her to take care of one.

8) most likely to swim across a large river/channel without getting fatigued

possibly faye could do it with enough adrenaline, but sinon could fly over it…

9) most likely to not be a morning person and hates getting woken up too early

THIS IS LITERALLY VEN’S EVERYDAY LIFE.

10) most likely to learn a subject a day before exams (and still nailing it)

darcy does it on the regular.

11) most likely to pick up a stray animal

faye, because she’s adopted many frogs, but darcy and laszlo would if given the opportunity.

12) most likely to fall for a prank

sissy’s entire life is a prank.

13) most likely to pull an accidental all-nighter

tie between daphne and dulcinea, they are not good at self care.

14) most likely to get stranded on an island and thrive

sinon, he could use the privacy.

15) most likely to get bullied by a random child

johnnie, but she deserves it.

16) most likely to win an athletic event

hnnngh, nobody?

17) most likely to become a con artist

theophania, although she doesn’t really want to (she often is, though).

18) most likely to get lost in their own home

danareth, for the sole fact that the miyokav castle is HUGE and he never quite got his head around all of it.

19) most likely to burn something while cooking

laszlo, faye, willow, and austine can’t cook to save a life.

20) most likely to stop a robbery if they see it taking place

nobody i think, it’s entirely likely that they’d all either think it’s a) not their place, b) the robber needed the money, c) think they couldn’t do anything or d) it’d be funnier if it happened.

21) most likely to not tell people they’re sick until they really need the help

laszlo and sunny in canon, willow, alastair, and theophania by virtue of their personalities, and ven (without meaning to).

22) most likely to crush on their villain/enemy

sasha (it’s the stockholm syndrome).

23) most likely to skip breakfast

all of the teenagers.

24) most likely to have a niche obsession

danareth and yaromyr, also alastair!

25) most likely to steal what they need on moment

all the dumaresq kids.

26) most likely to start a fight

sissy and sinon whenever the other is in the same room as them.

27) most likely to do something that they’re gonna regret later

*side eyes all the protagonists*

28) most likely to arrive ridiculously early

sinon and laszlo, those meticulous mfs.

29) most likely to be in a relationship for less than a week

daphne WISHES!

30) most likely to secretly be really good at music, but just not tell anyone

lady, but mostly because she has no one to tell.

leaving this one an open tag, feel free to use the prompts i was given or make up your own!

tag list for the sillies: (avoiding double tag but i may have missed some)

@wyked-ao3, @48lexr, @melpomene-grey, @thecrazyalchemist, @thecomfywriter,

@.moltenwrites, @yourpenpaldee, @glassfrogforest, @.the-golden-comet, @.gioiaalbanoart,

@.paeliae-occasionally, @.ominous-feychild, @.drchenquill, @tc-doherty, @corinneglass

[angelpassing-by]

ᏵꝊ𐌋𐌃𐌄𐌍 𐌔𐌀𐌍𐌃 𐌀𐌍𐌃 ᏵꝊ𐌋𐌃𐌄𐌍 𐌄𐌙𐌄𐌔

Pairing: Jeht x fem!reader Genere: fluff, angst [just a little] Sinopsis: it's the day before your loves goes on a mission with a certain Traveler A/N: I'm screaming, I'm crying, I'm foaming at the mouth. No fics for Jeht?? Now I'm sad. So, I haven't yet completed the whole world quest, but something tells me it will end in heartbreak and I'm SCARED. Sumeru is soo well written i want to scream, aaand Jeht is a lesbian cutie. Obviously I want Jeht for myself, but if I can't have her, please HoYo make Jehtlumi canon.

Marvelous rays of golden sunlight drape over the river's quiet waters, smearing its hue into the tents perched into both of its muddy shores. Lazy spinocrocodiles lay atop of the rocks, their scales glistening of red and ashes. Men and women of the tribe rest too, some beneath the comfort of palm tree shades and others strolling aimlessly. There is a certain tranquility in the air you haven't felt since joining the Tanit, a sort of peace found in the middle of the chaos, the constant uncertainty that dangles over all of your heads.

You can finally see why Jeht likes it here, even though you are both outsiders of some sort; you, more so, being a runaway from Sumeru city. Maybe you are all a big family after all. That thought makes you smile ever so slightly.

Jeht lays at your side, both outside your shared tent, not more than a few scraps of fabric and sturdy wood, with your eyes on the river and, occasionally, on each other. Your lover's golden eyes are as gentle as the setting sun, and so are her lips as she kisses your knuckles.

"Tomorrow I'll set off" she murmurs, still holding your hand between hers.

You know, you've seen the blonde Traveller and her fairy companion, Jeht's precious friend of whom you've heard nothing but honey - sweet praise. Truth be told, those words rarely extend to the flying thing though she quite reminds you of a little sister you once had. You don't really think about those things these days so you shake your thoughts away and bring her hands onto your own mouth, kissing her metal gloved fingers in exchange.

"I know" it's your only response, but on the inside you scream. Why? Aren't I enough for her? That foreigner is surely better, being such a legend. Why is Jeht setting herself up for danger again? Surely she will come home safe, right?

That night you sleep in each other's arms a last time, her body encasing you and her skin, warm and soft, keeping you company throughout the sleepless night. The chilling air pierces through the tent at times and wails as you snuggle closer to Jeht beneath the dusty blanket.

Jeht sometimes mumbles, calling out for something you can't quite make out until the first lights announce the start of another day: "don't... Dad... come... don't go... not there... back". As her words grow in intensity you shake her awake and kiss her good morning while her eyes still try to focus.

After a breakfast made up of dates and Fatteh, you are finally left alone. She fixes a strand of your dark hair behind your ear.

"Don't miss me too much" she murmurs, her forehead against yours.

"I'll just worry sick" Jeht attempts a half smile "be safe."

Now your lips are on her lips and her hands caress the back of your neck with such tenderness that, for a split second, you think you might melt from her touch. That kiss says more than the little words you've managed to spit out. I love you. I know you have to leave, but come back, don't you leave me too. And from her, wait here. Don't risk anything, be safe, be strong for me. I'll come back for you, I promise.

The kiss breaks as a high pitched voice calls for her: "Jeht, we are ready to go!!"; it's the Traveler and her little companion.

You look at her and she looks at you before heading away. She'll come back, you tell yourself but can't help but wonder as every time she ventures away from the tribe.

Is the love of two runaway girls stronger than the desert's deadly embrace?

[spaghettiposts]

Through Thick and Thin

Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Requested: “any chance of a fic where Y/N comes home to find Wanda sat on the sofa surrounded by tissues, shes all sniffly and is sneezing like 24/7. Y/N realise she has a pretty bad cold and takes care of her? Lots of fluff?” - anon

Genre: Fluff

Missions were always a delight and by delight you meant complete hell. Especially missions with Steve while you knew the guy had heart along with amazing intentions he was starting to get on your nerves.

From the early morning runs to the sudden need to do fifty push-ups at one in the morning; you were done with Steve Rodgers.

When the Quinjet landed you couldn’t have been more happy to finally be back home. Steve already knew better than to bring up the fact you still had a debriefing meeting to attend. Instead he opted to stay silent, retreating to his room quietly.

Overall what you missed the most was your beloved girlfriend of two years. She was amazing, one of those most beautiful girls in the world and by far the coolest avenger on the team.

A smile spread across your face at the thought of seeing her after longing weeks of waiting. The elevator ride felt torturously long all you could think about was coming back to your girlfriend and getting a well deserved nap.

Placing down your bag next to the coat rack you basked in the feeling of finally being home. Walking towards the common room you immediately sensed something was wrong, something was very wrong.

Being a trained assassin you weren’t clueless when it came to noticing change. First the wall had changed color from its usual gray to a shade of maroon, a toddler could identify that. Secondly a strange noise came from the couch.

It sounded like a cough.

Turning the corner your eyes widened at the ungodly amount of tissues on the floor. Tissues were scattered left and right.

“What the hell…” you muttered carefully, side stepping across the river of ongoing mucus.

Suddenly another sneeze came from the couch, it’s then you told the opportunity to acknowledge the girl laying on the couch. It was none other than Wanda Maximoff.

“Wanda?” Your demeanor switched a full one eighty noticing her ill stricken state.

Stuffy nose.

Coughing.

Shivering body.

They all confirmed your suspicions, she was sick. Now in your years of dating Wanda she tends to have a good immune system, her body inclines to never get sick usually only once a year. When she did get sick, it was absolute hell for both of you. Sometimes her powers went haywire causing mass destruction, other times it was simple silly things such as changing the wallpaper.

“Y/n?” Wanda croaked from underneath her pile of blankets. She turned her head to face you, letting out a tiny wince from the movement.

Sitting down next to her you placed a hand on her forehead, smiling softly when Wanda leaned into your touch. Your face quickly turned into one of concern when you felt how hot she was.

“Honey you’re burning up.” You frowned worryingly, pulling your hand away.

Wanda pouted at the lack of touch, reaching her hands out to you. Reluctantly you allowed her arms to wrap around your body, pulling you closer.

“Too long you’ve been gone malyshka.” Wanda muttered snuggling further into your shoulder. Your face heated up at the simple action, nevertheless you wrapped your arms around her anyway. The thought of catching the bug from her never crossing your mind.

You rubbed her back soothingly unaware of how the actions were making her sleepier. “Did you take medicine?” The witch shook her head gripping tighter.

Reluctantly you pulled away from her embrace, making her cross her legs around your waist, effectively locking you in. You chuckled lowly at her antics, brushing a stray strand of hair off her face.

“Wanda, you need medicine in order to feel better. I won’t be gone for even a minute darling I promise.”

“Liar.” Wanda huffed reaching her arms towards you.

You rolled your eyes “Please Wanda?” You sighed knowing all too well how stubborn she could be, especially when ill.

Crossing her arms with a scowl on her face reluctantly she let you go. Smiling to yourself you silently celebrated your small victory. “Thank you.” You leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to your girlfriend's cheek before retreating to the kitchen. Wanda’s attitude settled down after that.

After the medicine had been administered Wanda was curled up into your lap, resting her tired head. Her temperature had dropped noticeably, not enough to presume she was better but enough to see her body fighting off the virus. The tv played sitcoms which served more as background noise than anything.

Wanda's attention was focused on you as yours was on her.

“Have you eaten anything?”

“No…” She rasped out hesitantly.

You furrowed your brows at her tone “Are you feeling hungry?”

Wanda hummed in thought.

“I can make you your mothers soup if you’d like?” You suggested. Wanda smiled fondly against your neck, nodding her head yes.

“That’d be nice.”

A calm wave of silence followed both of you, never moving from your position. Wanda made it known she had no intention of leaving her place on your lap. Neither of you said anything more. It wasn’t until a couple of minutes you decided it would be a good time to start making the soup considering how long it would take to prepare the meal.

Placing a delicate kiss on her head you made a move to get up, it was then you noticed the witch was half asleep. “Are you tired?”

“Mhm” Wanda murmured

Maybe the soup could wait.

“Let’s get you upstairs then.” You suggested, rubbing her arm gently to persuade the witch further.

Wanda grunted, gripping onto your shirt tighter. “No.”

You chuckled softly “What do you mean no?”

“I mean no.” She finalized, kissing the underside of your jaw in a way that made your head spin. Wanda wasted no time in making herself more comfortable on you, settling further into the crook of your neck.

Although it didn’t last long until she went through yet again another coughing fit. You frowned at your girlfriend's evident discomfort as she reached again for another tissue.

You’d expect a call from Tony regarding the empty inventory of tissue boxes.

Her strength was clearly drained out, her powers long deactivated from feeling so drowsy. The tissue fell softly from her hands, her back landing on the couch for support.

“Are you sure you don’t want to go to bed?” You whispered softly, not wanting to further provoke her headache.

Wanda grunted in response, her eyes becoming heavier to keep open. Hesitantly she agreed, allowing you to guide her off the couch. Which proved to be a difficult task with all of her weight leaning against you.

“Wands?”

“Hm?” The Sokovian yawned.

“Could I maybe carry you?” You suggested “It’s just…the stairs.” You smiled sheepishly.

Even despite knowing each other for years and dating for even more Wanda loved how you could still get nervous. It melted her heart to know even after all this time you still get this way around her. She found it endearing.

“Yes please.” Wanda smirked teasingly your way, laughing at the evident blush on your face. You felt silly for feeling that way. “But seriously my legs are about to give out.”

You chuckled, picking her up with ease. In an instant her legs were wrapped around your waist, her arms laying on your shoulders. Wanda sighed contently at the close proximity knowing she’d never want to leave from your hold.

Once you made it up the stairs you opened the door to your shared room, closing the door behind you. You went to place Wanda down on the bed but instead her hold tightened.

“Don’t go.” She rasped.

You furrowed your eyebrows at her request “I was going to make you soup.”

Wanda shook her head, clinging onto you tighter. “I don’t want soup.” She pouted, pushing her head further into your chest.

“Then what do you want?” You rubbed her back softly, moving to lay down with her.

“You, just please. I just need you, I’m tired.” Wanda breathed out.

As if your heart couldn’t get anymore softer for the woman in front of you, it did. A surge of dopamine hit your heart, smiling at your witchy girlfriend you opened your arms for her to rest on.

Wanda gladly accepted, placing all her weight on you it came as a second nature to her by now. Her favorite place to be even when she wasn’t struck by a horrible illness. It felt like home.

Running your fingers through her hair you admired the girl in your arms who was slowly falling asleep. Wanda sighed happily, melting into your touch. Soon enough she was fast asleep, finally content.

Days later you found yourself catching the same bug Wanda had. And Wanda was there for you, throwing away every tissue you used.

[purpleqilinwrites]

only to us.

a/n: i went to play genshin for the first time in a while to see what's new, and i just ended up spending three hours walking around liyue with my wife ganyu! (what's new is wriothesley and his nice butt. 10/10.)

fandom: genshin impact

character: ganyu

genre: general / fluff

info: established relationship (can be read as either platonic or romantic); reader is an adeptus who fought in the archon war; this takes place pre-canon timeline

warnings: might not be canon-compliant

synopsis: it was time for new wine and new customs.

word count: 0.9k

part of the "yearning has hold of me" series.

Ganyu

The war was over, and a flurry of long-overdue celebrations brightened up the harbour.

While the people were busy making merry and drinking with the adepti, Ganyu found you among the rocks that formed the Guyun Stone Forest. Perched on one of the highest peaks jutting out against the bright blue of the sky, nestled in the shrubbery and trees that had begun to find a home on the things that were once weapons, you were lying on your back with your eyes closed and face toward the clouds.

The war was over, and it was the first time in a multitude of years that Ganyu had the pleasure – or was it relief? – of finding you in your human form.

"The crowds wore on me," you said, as a means of greeting, your voice echoing in the quiet. You beckoned her over by patting the patch of grass to your right, eyes still closed.

With the urgency that her experience in the past years has ingrained in her bones, Ganyu found herself running for most of the little distance between the two of you. She ran until she came close enough to take up room beside you, settling onto the grass and marvelling when she remembered it had not been there when she saw the Guyun Stone Forest formed.

The war was over, and she felt the need to keep reminding herself.

You rolled onto your side to face her, eyes now open. Ganyu mimicked your actions, shuffling closer and resting her head on a folded arm.

Your eyes burned into her, golden and unblinking, and she thought she might need to remind you, too, that the war was over.

"Rex Lapis was asking for you," she said, instead. "He'd like to share some osmanthus wine with everyone who fought with him."

The grass tickled her cheek as she spoke. A mass of clouds floated aimlessly in the otherwise empty blue expanse above the two of you. She waited for a response, alternating between watching a Geo crystalfly flit about some distance behind your head and watching you.

You kept your eyes fixed on her the entire time.

If it had been anyone else, Ganyu would have floundered under what felt to her like scrutiny. There had always been an intensity about you. It was not foreign to her, having been born and raised among full-blooded adepti and knowing the word would apply easily, believably to any one of them.

Even so, your gaze did not unsettle her the way that the eyes of others would.

"The mortals do make the best osmanthus wine," you said, finally. There was a smile teasing at the corners of your lips, a darting out of the tongue across your bottom lip as you imagined a taste.

She should have brought one of the smaller vessels from the harbour to share with you. There were too many offerings of wine to count at the makeshift shrine to Rex Lapis and the adepti in the camp at the foot of Mount Tianheng. Peacetime was new, and so the two of you could form a new custom of drinking out of the same cup of hammered iron. Perhaps—

You reached over to her and brushed a few stray strands of hair behind her ear, and it brought her out of her thoughts and back to the present with you. Before you could pull your hand away, Ganyu curled her own around the bone of your wrist and put your hand to her cheek.

It was cool to her skin, like the waters of the river in the Guili Plains of her girlhood summers. Familiar and always welcome.

"I found you," she said, echoing the words she spoke to you first, from a time long ago.

The breeze was beginning to pick up speed, ruffling her hair and then yours as it passed. A few amber leaves twirled about you. Your hair fanned out behind you, the breeze having run its fingers through the length of it, longer than it had been in years but still shorter than you were inclined to keep it.

Ganyu would like it very much if you would leave your hair to grow, for her. Selfishly, because she imagined you would be extremely attractive with your hair long. A little less selfishly, because seeing you with a blade in hand to trim your hair as close to your scalp as you could manage was a habit you had cultivated in wartime.

The war was over, and you could afford to live looking forward now that it was behind you.

You hummed, cupping your hand along her jaw, and stroked the pad of your thumb along her chin in tune with a song she did not recognise. "I knew you would find me," you said. "I know you, Xiao Yu. You always do."

Ganyu closed her eyes to better focus on the sound of your voice, on the touch of your hand. It was a folk song you were humming, one of the many that were native to the tribe of sea-dwelling adepti you came from. She could not remember if it was a lullaby, or if it was a hunting song.

The breeze tapered off, and the grass that sat between your body and hers stilled in their frantic dance. Your humming became louder as it filled the air, and this space that crowned the Guyun Stone Forest belonged only to her and to you. This space, where she was more alive than alive has ever been.

It was surely a lullaby, with how her eyes seemed to weigh heavier as her attention to your song began to wane.

[moonlightazriel]

New Year /// Azriel X F!Reader

Summary: "Azriel and reader celebrating the 31st dec night with Inner cricle, doing countdowns , kissing their mates 🥺❤ and after celebrating with IC , azriel celebrating new year with his mate in their bedroom ( you know what i mean 🙈🥵) and then waking up in each other's arm naked on the 1st day of new year , snuggling 🥰🥺 Ohh I'm Crying😭😭❤❤ ( SMUT and FLUFF)"

Warnings: SMUT

Word Count: 1,8K

Notes: It's really weird writing about new year and imagining it in the winter when i'm currently melting away with how hot it is today. Thank you @cherryjain17 for requesting this ❤️

Main Masterlist

I sipped in my drink, the wine warming up my body, I could feel the heat on my cheeks from the three glasses I already had tonight, everyone was laughing and smiling, this year Rhys and Feyre decided that the new year should be exclusively celebrated by the inner circle, so tonight was just about family. Mor was telling some joke, as she held Emerie’s hand, their bond had snapped only two months ago and we all were more than happy for them, they deserved all the happiness in the world.

I watched how they looked at each other, the gaze filled with love and I smiled, remembering how it was when the bond snapped into place for me and Azriel, the feeling of being finally complete, I squeezed my mate’s hand and he leaned towards me, his head resting on my shoulder while I kissed his hair. My eyes drifted to the clock on the wall, that indicated that it was almost midnight, Rhys must have noticed it too as he got up, clapping and demanding everyone’s attention.

“It’s almost midnight, and I have a gift for you all, more to my dear Feyre, but you guys get to enjoy it as well.” He extended his hand to Feyre helping her getting up, one by one, all of the couples followed him, he opened the door to the higher balcony in the River House, once we all gathered around, he counted the time, when the main clock in town announced the beginning of the new year, Rhysand snapped his fingers, suddenly, a colorful line ran towards the sky, exploding in a burst of color and sparkle, followed by another one, and then another, coloring the skies multiple times.

Azriel spun me around, until I was facing him, he removed a hair strand from my face, placing it behind my ear as he leaned into me, his lips capturing mine, the kiss was gentle, intimate, his hands held my waist firmly while his tongue licked my lower lip, I opened my mouth to him and he entered it, his tongue exploring every corner of my mouth, making my breath go uneven.

“Happy new year love.” He said as he parted the kiss, someone tapped on my shoulder, as I turned, Elain was offering us champagne, we thanked her and approached the rest of the group, the colorful explosions kept happening in the background as we all lifted our glasses for a toast.

“To a new year filled with peace, love and did I say peace? We really need it.” We all cracked a laugh at Rhys’s joke. “I’m glad to have such a wonderful family by my side, I love you all, but if you tell anyone, I will deny it for the rest of my life. Except for you, Feyre darling, the whole world needs to know that I love you.”

“I guess you made it very clear a lot of times you dickhead.” Mor said and again, everyone laughed so loud that the whole town might’ve heard us. As the show came to an end and Nesta started to complain about being cold, everyone got back inside, Amren and Varian were the first ones to leave.

“I guess we could go home too, don’t you think?” Azriel whispered on my ear, his breath causing me to shiver as it hit my neck, all the hair in my body getting up at the implied suggestion on his tone. I got up, gathering my purse and pulling Az with me, saying goodbye to everyone, I heard Cassian yelling as we reach the front door.

“Use protection! Ouch!” If I closed my eyes I could see Nesta slapping his arm for the comment and I snorted.

“Thank you Nes and fuck you Cassian.” I shouted before closing the door, the cold winds hit me and I shrugged, Azriel turned to me and asked me if I was cold. “Yeah, do you mind if we winnow instead of flying? I guess choosing a strapless dress for tonight wasn’t the smartest choice.”

“Don’t worry love, we will get rid of it in a minute.” He said, his voice low and powerful, sending a wave of heat through my body, I pressed my legs together and he laughed sarcastically before he held my hand, I huffed, already feeling the wetness gathering in my underwear, the shadows reunited around us as I winnowed us home, Azriel didn’t wait until we fully stepped out into our house to start distributing kissed along my shoulder.

His hands pulled my waist towards him, pressing my ass on the growing bulge in his pants, his left hand got up, his fingers brushing lightly my arm as he got higher to remove my hair from my neck, his lips burning my skin with every touch as he kissed the extension of my neck, I pressed my lips together to suppress a moan, his right hand got up as well, aiming for the zipper on my dress, pulling it down slowly, the fabric sliding on my body, pooling on the ground, I stepped out of it, left in only my underwear.

“You were without a bra this whole time? Fuck.” He whispered on my ear, I pressed my legs together once more and he pushed me forward, towards our bedroom. As I laid down, he stopped by the end of our bed, his hands quickly opening the buttons of his black shirt, his pants and underwear were discarded on the floor, he stood naked, like a fucking god, his brown skin and tattoos begging to be touched, as I made a move, trying to stand to get to him, he stopped me, his hands grabbing my ankles and pulling me towards the end of the bed.

“I’ve been hungry for you all night, let me have my well deserved feast.” He said and I trembled, resisting the urge to close my legs and hide from him, no matter how many years had passed between us, I would always get shy under his lustful gaze, he looked at me like he indeed was starving, he keneled in front of me, the only one I will ever get on my knees for, he said that to me once and I blushed as I remembered.

His tongue licked a string in my aching core, his hot tongue stealing my breath as he licked my clit, the circle motions he made, driving me insane, he took his time licking and kissing it as I moaned, the loud noises coming from the back of my throat. “Fuck Az.” He slowly inserted a finger, sliding it all the way inside me, curling it at the end until he hit the right spot inside me, I grabbed the sheets in my hands, the sound of ripping fabric was soft, but it was still there, those were my favorite sheets, I was sure that Azriel wouldn’t mind buying me new ones.

One of his hands reached my breasts, he played with my nipple as the orgasm grew in my lower belly, the knot in there was almost too much, he inserted another finger, moving faster, encouraged by my loud moans. “Az I can’t take it anymore.” I half moaned, half spoke, he looked at me through his lashes, his irises darkened with lust.

“Then cum for me love.” His voice was so sensual that I wasn’t able to control myself, the wave of pleasure hitting me, I closed my legs around his head while my cunt clenched his fingers in, Azriel kept licking, overstimulating my clit as he cleaned my orgasm. He got up, crawling on top of me, one of his hands grabbed my waist, lifting me up until I was laying rightfully in bed, the sensation of his strong arms lifting me like I was nothing more than a pillow got me soaking wet, and the moan that escaped my lips was sinful. “Do you like when I move you like this, don’t you?” I nodded eagerly and he smirked.

I cupped his face, pulling him down for a hungry kiss, his wings flared up behind him, one of my hands held his cock, stroking him up and down a few times, he bit my lower lip as I kept going, his forehead was resting against mine and I could feel him sending his love through the bond, i caressed the black thread between us in return at the same time I adjusted him on my entry, soaking his tip with my wetness, he sunk his cock deep inside me, we both moaned at the feeling.

He didn’t move for a while, waiting for me to stop clenching around him, as soon as he felt my body stopping, he started moving, his big cock moving in a slow pace, hitting the good spot inside me every damn time as he would slid all the way out just to slam his hips against me, I dragged my nails along his back, whispering to him that I wanted it faster, he was more than happy to attend my wished as his thrusts got faster, he started on a fast and steady pace, my lips couldn’t stay closed as I moaned his name over and over again.

The second orgasm started to build quicker than the first one, it didn’t take long for it to start being unbearable, my walls clenched hardly around him as I dug my nails even more on his skin, to the point of drawing blood, he sucked marks on my neck, his lips seemed to be glued to me as the orgasm hit me, powerful than the first one, I moaned his name loudly as I came, he was right after me, his warm seed spilling inside me.

He collapsed on my side, and I started to feel my eyelids heavy as we tried to catch our breaths, he pulled me closer, laying my head on his chest as he kissed my sweaty forehead. “Rest love, I know you’re tired from helping Feyre all day.”

“Goodnight Az, I love you.” I said, feeling the heaviness of sleep carry me away in it’s arms. When I woke up in the next morning Azriel was already awake, caressing my hair softly as he watched me sleep. “Hi Az.” I looked down, we were still very much naked and I giggled.

“Hi love, did you sleep well?” I looked at him, nodding and then burying my face on his chest, he held me closer and I could stay just like this, buried on his chest, feeling his scent and being warm in the arms of my mate.

“I love you so much.” I whispered against his skin, peppering with kisses along his belly.

“No more than I do.”

[sentientgolfball]

Ghoulette Appreciation: Week 3

For this week I mostly did first ritual but there's a little hint of lazy Sunday in there

Read here or on Ao3

Word Count: 2008

Pairing: Mistshine

Tags: hurt/comfort, Sunny has self-esteem issues, Sunny has lots of feelings about tour

Summary: Sunny is bored out of her mind when the clips of the first ritual begin to blow up her phone

It had been a normal Sunday for Sunshine. She woke up way earlier than she intended to, but to be fair since the pack has been gone she hasn’t been sleeping well. She tried to spend as much time with Aether as she could in the evenings, but with his new assignment to head the nursery on top of his usual duties in the infirmary with Omega, it was difficult. However, she was able to share breakfast with him this morning before he had to leave. Now she sits alone in the den, lying upside down on the couch while a movie plays. 

Even though Sunday meant she had the day off from her duties it was her least favorite day. None of the others had a job that came with a guaranteed day off. Sunshine was a messenger ghoul. This means that when the Clergy isn’t working neither is she and Sunday nobody higher in the church worked. It was reserved as a day of rest to get over hangovers or whatever else may have happened at the previous night’s Black Mass. Hell, even a majority of the Siblings didn’t work Sundays, only those with essential duties like the kitchen staff or the nurses. 

She sighs long and heavy, bored out of her mind. Normally she’d run around the Ministry visiting everyone throughout the day, but with the tour being under way the only ghouls left in the Ministry that she even remotely knew were the old band ghouls. She was friendly with them, sure, but she had no idea how they’d react to her following them around to chat. She knew Ifrit wouldn’t mind, but Zephyr had had a bad flare-up last night. She knew he was still in their shared room helping them with the pain. She really wanted to go visit but something in her told her she wouldn’t be welcome. 

Her ears flicked thinking about what else to do. Her mind drifted to thoughts of Mist. A blush dusted her cheeks as she thought about maybe going to visit her. She’d pack a little lunch to make sure they ate. They would accept it graciously, only giving the tiniest hint of a smile when she thought Sunshine wasn’t looking. She wouldn’t comment on it, but she’d replay the way her shoulders softened and her face loosened when someone did something for her. It made Sunny’s heart flutter. Mist would probably never understand why she did the things she did for them, but that would never stop Sunny from doing them. Deep sea ghouls were solitary. Deep sea ghouls didn’t take mates. Nature can say whatever it wants but Sunshine never bent to its rules. 

She genuinely toyed with the idea of visiting Mist before she remembered what they were doing today. They were spending the day with River, Lake, and Chain, gathering fish from the stream that cut through the Ministry’s forest now that winter fully melted away. She could go see them, she was part water after all, but the significantly stronger fire in her shuddered at the thought. 

She huffed, blowing a stray strand of hair out of her face and sat right side up on the couch. 

That’s when her phone buzzed. 

And buzzed.

And buzzed. 

And buzzed. 

Sunshine picked it up to look at the notifications and immediately she could feel the grin spreading onto her face. Footage of the first ritual was finally being posted. She quickly opened her phone and began to scroll, saving her favorites to show Aether when he came back to the den. 

She giggled at the way Phantom’s balaclava didn't fit properly. 

She loved seeing Aurora show off to the crowd. 

She hummed along to some of the songs in the clips and laughed fondly at Copia’s antics. 

She can feel a tightness in her chest when the footage of the bows starts to get posted. It hurts not being there with her pack. She’s only been on the surface for a little over a year. They’re all she’s known and it settles heavy in her stomach that she’s not with them. She’s so glad Phantom and Aurora get to experience the thrill of the stage, but she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t jealous. She wasn’t bitter. She wasn’t angry. 

It wasn’t fair to be mean to the two new summons, it wasn’t their faults. So she always kept the feelings in. She didn’t know what else to do with them. She kept her head up and a smile on her face and crumbled when no one was looking. 

No one was looking. 

She felt the tears start to gather in her eyes and she let them. She had to get it out now before Aether came back. He’d be worse and Sunshine had to be there for him. She wouldn’t let the big guy fall without someone there, and right now she’s the only one who can even remotely understand the swirl of emotions. 

Then she made the mistake of scrolling. 

She started to see what the humans were saying. Of course, they noticed the changes immediately, Phantom wasn’t exactly Aether-shaped, but that’s all she saw. 

There wasn’t a word about her. 

That tightness started to turn into something else. Something colder that made her stomach churn. 

She started to scroll and reload her apps as fast as she could, still not a word about her. It was all about Aether. 

When she finally found something that mentioned her, she almost wished she hadn’t. Every other post she saw about Aether was full of emotion and almost mourning like he fucking died. But the one post she saw about herself was simple. There was nothing to it. It was simply stating there was also a new ghoulette. Just a simple little fact. 

She closed her phone and threw it onto the coffee table. She buried herself in the oversized hoodie she was wearing and cried. It was Mountain’s hoodie. His scent helped, but she wished he was actually here to tell her the thoughts aren’t true. 

Nobody knew I was gone. 

They didn’t notice. 

They didn’t care. 

Was I really that bad? 

If I had just tried harder. Had just been better. 

I should’ve been better. 

She cried with her whole body, out loud and unashamed. She missed her pack and she wanted them to be right here with her. She missed traveling. She missed the feeling of the lights. She missed goofing off for the humans who screamed for them. 

But they didn’t miss her. 

She sobbed and cried and whined until she gave herself a headache. Until she had nothing left in her. She started to come down from the overwhelming emotions and she knew she’d crash hard if she stayed there alone. Sunshine took a deep, shaky breath and stood from the couch. She didn’t even bother trying to hide the fact she just cried her heart out. 

She wanted to go see Aeth. She needed to go see Aeth. She wobbled a little as she walked to the door to the den, sniffing and wiping her nose. When she opened the door she smacked face first into a solid body. She jumped back, startled by the cold contact. 

“I’m so sorry! I wasn’t—“ 

“Sunshine? Are you well, what happened?” 

She moved the hood out of her face. 

“Mist?” 

She doesn’t know why seeing Mist broke the dam again. All she knows is seeing her deep blue eyes, hearing their low voice say her name, smelling her ice and stormy sea scent pushed her right back over the edge. Another sob wrecked her body. 

“Sunshine what is it?” Mist lays a hand on her shoulder, steadying her. 

When they only get a high-pitched whine as a response, Mist guides Sunny back to the couch. They go to the kitchenette to grab a glass of water, mentally running through the things Ifrit always did for Zephyr. 

She holds the glass out to Sunny, not letting go until she’s sure she has a hold on it. They sit next to her on the couch, turned so that they can face each other. 

“When you’re ready. Start at the beginning.” 

Sunshine takes a long drink from the glass before setting it on the coffee table. She pulls her knees up and under Mountain’s hoodie. 

“Nobody remembers me.”

“Excuse me?” 

“Nobody remembers me. Stuff from the first ritual started to get posted. All the humans missed Aether but nobody missed me.” 

“Why do you say that?” 

“Cause the only stupid post I saw that had anything to do with me was just stating I was gone! There was nothing behind it. I should’ve tried harder to make a better impression. I know I was only there for a year but I didn’t think I was that forgettable.” 

“Who told you you were forgettable?” 

Sunny pauses and glances up at her. She sniffs and stares into the middle distance processing what Mist had said. 

“Huh?” 

“You said you were forgettable. Who told you that?” 

“The humans who like us they haven’t—“ 

“No Sunshine” Mist says putting a hand on her “they did not say that. Unless I am wrong then please feel free to correct me, but no one actually said you were forgettable, did they?” 

Sunny blinks hard, letting a few stray tears fall. 

“No…I guess no one actually did say that.” 

“Humans are strange creatures. They’re not as perceptive as ghouls and spirits. There was a very long time where they believed Dew and I were the same.” 

Sunny sniffs and laughs lightly “You and Dew? You’re the exact opposites of each other.” 

“And yet when he first showed up people thought that he was me. Now the opposite happens. People will see me and think I’m Dew.” 

“That’s silly” she smiles and wipes her eyes. 

“It is isn't it. So don’t take to heart what the humans say. You are not forgettable.” 

Sunshine smiles to herself. She opens her mouth to thank Mist, but right as she does her phone rings. She fumbles with it, startled by the noise. When she answers she’s met with shouting.

“SUNNY! Did you see us? Did you see us? I did everything you told me to do!” 

Aurora’s voice crackles through the speaker. 

“Hey give that back—“

“Hi Sunny baby” Cumulus coos from the other end “Rora wanted to call you when we got on the bus.”

“Yeah?” She smiled “then why am I talking to you huh?” 

Her eyes flick up in time to see Mist leaving, heading down the hall that leads to the retired ghoul rooms. She waves goodbye to her even though Mist’s back is to her. 

“Sunbeam are you okay?” Cirrus’ voice sounds distant. 

“Yeah” Sunny clears her throat and switches what side the phone is on “Yeah I’m okay. Just miss everyone.” 

“We miss you too baby.” 

There’s a rustle on the other end followed by a hiss before Aurora’s voice is back. 

“What did you think?” 

“You looked so regal. Like a little ghoulish princess.” 

“Do you think the humans will like me?” 

Sunny pauses, swallowing the bittersweet lump in her throat. 

“I’m positive they will, little star shine.” 

Sunshine continues talking to the others, laughing about silly things that happened while they’ve been separated. She updates them about any new Ministry gossip and they tell her how Dew was so embarrassed he fell asleep on Phantom the first early morning that he set the ends of his pants on fire. She talks and talks and talks until Aether is shuffling back into the den, sighing with the tension in his muscles as he sits next to her, scooping her up into his lap as she continues the conversation on speaker. 

Mist had stood in the shadows of the hallway. They listened to Sunny speak and laugh completely hidden from sight. They listened until they couldn’t stand the feeling in their chest anymore. They slipped into Ifrit and Zephyr’s room without a sound.

[dontyouworrydaddy]

I will always choose you

Jill valentine x fem! reader

summary: Jill will always come back to you and spend the rest of her life with you

Warning: pure fluff

As you lay in bed, wrapped in Jill's embrace, you could feel the warmth of her body against yours. Her fingers traced lazy patterns on your skin, and you sighed contentedly, feeling utterly safe and loved in her arms.

Outside, the birds were chirping, and the sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. It was a perfect morning, and you felt grateful to be sharing it with the woman you loved more than anything.

Jill leaned down to kiss you again, her lips soft and warm against yours. You felt a spark of electricity shoot through your body as she deepened the kiss, and you wrapped your arms around her neck, pulling her closer.

As she pulled away, you couldn't help but smile, feeling a sense of wonder and joy that never seemed to fade. She was beautiful, both inside and out, and you knew that you were lucky to have her in your life.

"Are you going to get up soon, my love?" she asked, brushing a strand of hair away from your face. You shook your head, snuggling back into the pillows. "Not yet. I want to stay here with you a little while longer." Jill smiled, tucking a stray lock of hair behind your ear. "That's okay. We can stay here all morning if you want."

And so you did. You lay there in bed, talking softly and laughing together, enjoying each other's company as the world outside went on without you.

Later that day, as Jill prepared to leave for her mission, you watched her pack her equipment with a sense of sadness and longing. You wished that you could go with her, to keep her safe and to be by her side, but you knew that it wasn't possible.

So instead, you stood by the door, watching as she slipped on her boots and fastened her holster. She turned to face you, her eyes filled with love and warmth, and you knew that you would carry that feeling with you throughout the day.

"Promise me that you'll be careful," you whispered, reaching out to take her hand.

Jill squeezed your fingers, her touch gentle and reassuring. "I will. And I'll be back before you know it."

As she leaned in to kiss you, you could feel the softness of her lips against yours, and the love that flowed between you like a river. You knew that no matter what happened, you would always have each other, and that nothing could ever change that.

And so, as she left for her mission, you watched her go with a sense of hope and longing, feeling grateful for the moments that you had shared, and looking forward to the time when she would return to your arms once more.

As the summer wore on, you and Jill spent your days exploring new places, trying new foods, and making beautiful memories together. You took long walks in the park, picnicked by the river, and spent lazy afternoons in bed, wrapped in each other's arms.

Each day was filled with small moments of love and affection, whether it was a soft kiss on the forehead or a gentle touch on the hand. And as the days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months, you felt your love for each other grow stronger and deeper with each passing moment.

Through it all, Jill was your rock, your support, and your best friend. She always knew just what to say to make you feel better, and she never failed to put a smile on your face.

And when the summer finally came to an end, and the leaves began to change, you knew that your love for each other would continue to blossom and grow, no matter what the future held.

For you and Jill, there was nothing more important than the love that you shared, and you were both willing to do whatever it took to make it work. Even when times were tough, you knew that you could always count on each other.

As the days grew colder, and the nights grew longer, you and Jill spent more and more time cuddled up together, enjoying the warmth of each other's company. You talked about your dreams and hopes for the future, and you knew that no matter where life took you, you would always have each other.

And so, as the summer of your love came to an end, you knew that you would always cherish the memories that you had made together. From the lazy mornings spent in bed, to the long walks in the park, to the moments of tenderness and affection that you shared, your love for each other was an unbreakable bond that would endure forever.

As you lay in bed, wrapped in Jill's embrace once more, you knew that you had everything you needed right here, in this moment. With her by your side, you could face anything that life threw your way, and you knew that no matter what happened, you would always be together.

And so, as you drifted off to sleep, with the soft sound of Jill's breathing in your ear, you felt a sense of peace and contentment that you had never known before. For you and Jill, the early summer had been the beginning of a beautiful love story, one that would continue to unfold for years to come.

you know that she will always choose you. Over anything.

[dcbbw]

Sunday Sneak Peek: The "Bueller, Bueller?" Edition

It feels as if it has been FOREVER since I have written and/or posted anything of substance or significance. I have so many unfinished WIPs, storylines, and ideas on my laptop and trapped in my brain, but my focus, attention, and energies are all being directed towards IRL events and situations at the moment, and I honestly have no idea when I will have the time and motivation to devote to writing the way I once did.

However, I managed to get some words to keyboard and wanted to share (and gauge interest in) a couple of UnRomance WIPs I’m toying with. Both are follow-ups that NO ONE asked for:

One is for the original ending where Riley actually calls “Stop!” and leaves Liam. The second is a follow-up for the fandom ending where Liam and Riley are married and have Baby Eleanor, and a son on the way.

Not sure if anyone would want to see these come to fruition given I have so many other WIPs folks have expressed interest in (and your patience is both admirable and appreciated beyond measure!), but it’s all I got today.

As usual, everything is in a state of rough draft, and final version may vary. They are both below the cut, and I hope you enjoy them!

Pairing: Liam x Riley (it ain't Cordonia!)

Rating: M for Mature

Single

November (Liam)

It is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving; I have broccoli, cheese, and shredded chicken bisque simmering in the slow cooker that I’ll pair with curried rice and buttermilk biscuits. Eventually. I place a cut-crystal glass filled with cognac on the kitchen counter so I can give the soup a quick stir. Upon hearing my doorbell chime, I glance briefly at the wall clock; my company is early, but not by much.

I open the front door, a practiced smile on my face. “Thank you for meeting me here.”

Elizabeth gives a quick grin as she steps inside. “I was glad to hear from you,” she responds as I gently spin her around to remove a stylish, if dated, gray wool coat from her shoulders. I hang her coat and purse on the coatrack and guide her down the hall.

Her blue eyes take in the pictures hanging on the hallway walls, and when I lead her to the living room, her expression is one of wonder as she sees the enviable view through the wall of windows. She looks at me briefly over her shoulder before looking back out at the East River, Manhattan, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

“Is this your place, John?”

I shake my head slightly. “It belongs to a friend.”

I gesture to the sofa. “Have a seat, I’ll be with you momentarily. Drink?”

“Wine, please.”

I notice that she is sitting as if posing for a portrait. “Relax,” I instruct in a gentle tone. “It’s the same arrangement as usual, just a different location. Please, make yourself at home.”

I return with the requested drink, and my eyes take in her appearance. Elizabeth looks as If she’s dressed for either a funeral or a job interview: gray polyester blouse, black pencil skirt with a modest split in the back; black pantyhose and black pumps complete the ensemble.

I settle next to her on the sofa; she sips at the vino slowly, almost cautiously. She smacks her red-tinted lips a little too loudly as she nods approvingly. “That’s good wine,” she declares.

As she sips more, my fingertips brush loose tendrils of blonde strands away from her forehead before trailing down her cheekbone and jawline.  She looks at me, her eyes filled with question and desire.

My fingers wrap around her wrist, and I softly tug at it to lead her hand to my still-clothed manhood. Elizabeth seductively licks her lower lip, the tip of her tongue a pale pink. She places her goblet on one of the coffee table’s coasters before flattening her palm against me.

She presses her other palm against my shirt-covered chest while her lips ghost kisses along the side of my neck. Her fingertips walk down my chest, towards my torso. I push her away slightly.

“Stand up and strip for me,” I instruct in a husky tone. “It would mean a lot to me if you were to do that.”

She hesitates for a moment before slowly nodding in agreement.  

“Good,” I say as I rise; I need my drink from the kitchen. “Be right back. Stand in front of the windows. I’ll give you $100 for each piece of clothing you remove but keep your heels on.”

When I return, I have my glass and the bottle of brandy; I settle back on the sofa, pour myself a refill, and get ready to watch the show.

Domestic

My eyes open slowly, greeted by complete darkness. The blackout curtains covering the bedroom windows effectively block any and all illumination. However, they do not muffle the sound of heavy rain falling upon the city. The remnants of a tropical storm moved in overnight and are expected to last through the day.

 Riley is asleep; her breathing is deep and even, occasionally interrupted by a soft snore. Her back is to me, plump ass cheeks pressing against my naked skin. My arms tighten around her waist, and her scent, commingled with yesterday’s fragrances waft elusively past my nostrils. I toss my leg over her thigh as I nuzzle her neck and breathe deeply. The faint smells of fruity shampoo, sleep, powder, and Oscar de la Renta perfume are a heady mixture before sunrise.

The side of my left thumb flicks against one of her nipples; I feel the ridged flesh grow erect under my ministrations. My right index finger plays with her clit before my dick slides into her waiting entrance. After a few strokes, she moans my name in a voice heavy with slumber. Her hips undulate as we rock back and forth together slowly, quietly; I bite my tongue as I fist her hair. My strokes become faster and rougher, her moans grow louder. I clap my palm against her mouth and hiss in her ear to be quiet.

The children are sleeping.

It doesn’t take long for her orgasm to wash over my dick, or my seed to fill her. I pull out of her and let my head fall back onto my pillows. After my breathing slows, I sit up and stifle a loud yawn as my arms stretch towards the ceiling. I make my way to the master bathroom where the wall clock informs me that it’s two hours until sunrise.

I empty my bladder, wash my hands, and pull on my pajama bottoms before donning an ankle-length black silk robe. I run a comb hastily through my tousled locks and shove my feet into bedroom slippers before leaving the room.

My glance falls onto Riley, who is asleep again. She doesn’t stir as I exit the room to make my rounds and check on my family.

I take care of them.

Seven years of marriage, and I have no complaints. Riley has been a good wife; she is still submissive to only me, still in need of and seeking my guidance, and still aggravatingly disobedient.

She loves me, she loves our children more. Riley still works, but not for Independence Publishing and Lynn. Lynn sold the business to focus on her family when her husband’s business became hugely successful. My wife now works for a freelance art gallery in Soho called Standalone; she’s the Procurement and Assets Manager.

 I’ve been a good husband: I’m attentive. I’ve never cheated on her, never hit her in anger or abuse, home every night. I am a good provider, both giving her and maintaining a lifestyle she has grown quite accustomed to. She can quit her job anytime she wants and not have a financial care in the world.

We share equally in parenting our children, and I am a present and engaged father. A housekeeper comes in three times a week to help us manage the cleaning and upkeep of our home. I do all the cooking, although Riley has finally learned how to cook scrambled eggs, spinach, and how not to burn toast.

She’s so proud of herself.

Tagging (let me know if you want on or off):

@jared2612 ​@ao719 @marietrinmimi​​​ @indiacater​​​ @kingliam2019​​​ @bebepac @liamxs-world @mom2000aggie​​​ @liamrhysstalker2020​​​ @twinkleallnight @umccall71 @superharriet @busywoman​​​ @gabesmommie1130 @tessa-liam​​​ @beezm @gardeningourmet​​​ @lovingchoices14​​​ @mainstreetreader @angelasscribbles​​​ @lady-calypso @emkay512​​​ @princessleac1 @charlotteg234 @alj4890​ @motorcitymademadame​​​ @queenmiarys @choicesficwriterscreations

[tinycoded360]

Chapter 20: Final

Sage stretched her tiny arms up as she woke. The cabin was dark, and the only sounds were the breathing of the giants beside her and the pitter-patter of rain on the cabin roof. Sage felt annoyed at having woken again in the middle of the night. She found it hard to adjust the human's sleep schedule. *Why couldn’t they sleep more like borrowers during the day? * Sage thought to herself.

Sage shivered, the fire had gone out, although the cabin had retained much of the warmth, making it warmer than if would be if they where outside, she still felt cold. She looked up at Mackenzie’s sleeping face. He was sound asleep, his arm wrapped around the cookie tin she was in, holding it close to him as he slept on his side. Sage noticed the human, Jace, wrapping her arm around his middle and cuddling close to him. It reminded her of the cuddle piles she and her siblings and parents would do to conserve warmth at night *It’s not fair, I wanna be apart of the cuddle pile. * Sage pouted to herself.

With determination, Sage pulled herself out of the cookie tin and started climbing Mackenzie. She knew he worried about crushing her, but if she found a good spot, that probably wouldn’t happen.

Sage noticed Mackenzie sleeping with his winter hat on, probably to conserve warmth. There! That would be perfect. She’d wiggle under his hat and sleep on top of his head. She figured she wouldn’t get crushed there, and it would be nice and warm.

Sage managed to climb her way up to his face. She sat on his cheek, getting distracted by his beard. He must have been tired. Usually, he’d wake by now with her scampering on top of him. She couldn’t blame him, though. The trip in the river was exhausting. She’d be good with never setting foot in water again. She sat on his cheek, patting and playing with the strands of his bread.

Growing bored, she wondered what to do next. On one hand, she could try to climb down the blanket and get to the floor. She was itching to explore the new space. But it would be hard to climb back up, and she didn’t want to get stuck on the ground. She wondered how long they would stay here. They hadn’t stayed in one spot long enough for her to craft a new hook. She wanted to make some climbing gear.

Not wanting to leave the warmth of the giant. She decided to leave exploring for another night. Besides, the dress she was in was horrible. She was grateful Mackenzie gave her something to wear while her other clothes dried, but it was just a cloth with holes cut into it. She had kept tripping in it. The length is way too long. Mackenzie tied a string around her middle to act as a belt, which helped; she could have done better, given the time and material. Mackenzie had promised they could make her more clothing in the daytime.

Sage climbed the rest of the way up to his hat. She wiggled herself under the brim, and she was finally under his hat. She snuggled into his hair. Although it was stuffy, it was warm, and she felt safe.

Sage woke with a start; her bed was moving under her. She clutched the strands of hair around her. She heard a deep grumble, and then the hat she had laid under was removed. Sage huddled down close to Mackenzie’s head, refusing to be dislodged.

“Oh! That’s cute!” Jace remarked, leaning over Mackenzie to look at the tiny girl curled up in the bed of his hair.

Sage squeaked in protest as Mackenzie’s finger and thumb reached up and pinched her sides. He tried to pull her up, but she held tight to his hair.

“Hey, now! Let go; I’m not your jungle gym.” Mackenzie chuckled, amused. He was just relieved he hadn’t crushed her in the night. He was amused she decided to make his hair her bed, it was the last place he expected her to be. He thought it was more likely she would be on the floor somewhere.

Mackenzie, as gently as he could, removed Sage from the top of his head. He cradled her in the palm of his hand, looking down at her in amusement.

"As cute as that was, we must talk about when to leave. Mathis could be on our tails by now," Jace remarked, her dark eyes flickering with concern and resolve. Her short black hair was tucked behind her ears, framing a face set with the gravity of their situation.

“The weather is bad today; odds are it’s slowing him down. And besides, they don’t know if we’re alive or not. We have some time. Let’s give it a week, five days, I’d say. Let’s gather our strength and stock up on supplies before going out there again.” Mackenzie reasoned.

“We should head to Perseverance Mills; my friend Dr. Atwood will help us,” Jace said.

“We’ll looks like we got a plan.” Mackenzie smiled at Jace, causing her to blush under his gaze.

Day 1:

Mackenzie carefully inspected the meager contents of the cabin's pantry, stacking cans of beans and bags of jerky into a neat pile on the counter. His hands moved methodically, his mind alert to the task: they needed enough supplies to last until they reached Dr. Atwood's haven in Perseverance Mills.

"Will this be enough?" Jace asked, her voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid that speaking too loudly might summon their pursuers.

"I’ll go hunting today; that should add to what we have; we can even make something out of the hides. Maybe I can find other supplies while I’m out," Mackenzie replied, his gaze lingering on the snow-dusted windows. "But we can't afford to stay longer than a week. Weather permitting, we move out."

Jace nodded, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. She had changed back into her dry clothes. Mackenzie himself had swapped his clothes for his dry ones as well, even though they were travel-worn. It felt nice to be in his own clothes, although they could do with a wash. It still gave a feeling of freshness despite the lack of a proper bath.

Speaking of baths, he turned his attention to the smallest member of their trio. Sage sat on the edge of the table, her tiny form dwarfed by the surrounding objects on the table. Her blond hair was matted with dirt, and her brown eyes held a glint of defiance. Mackenzie had managed to warm up a cup of water over the fireplace, the steam curling into the chilly air. He'd added a drop of soap, creating a few lazy bubbles on the surface.

"Come on, Sage. It's just a little water," he coaxed gently, extending his palm toward her.

Sage scowled, hugging her knees to her chest. "I don't want to," she protested, trembling slightly. "It's scary. And deep."

"It's not deep for you," Mackenzie assured her. "You won't drown in a cup, I promise."

"But I can't swim!" she insisted, her eyes wide.

"You don't need to swim. Just sit and let me clean you up." Mackenzie's tone was patient yet firm. She needed this.

Eventually, her resistance waned, and with a dramatic huff that would've been comical under any other circumstances, she gave one more protest, saying she didn’t want to be undressed.

"Keep your clothes on, then," Mackenzie said with a chuckle. He could wash the makeshift dress he made her along with her. Then he could switch it out with her old dry clothes. He makes a mental note to work on making her change of clothes.

Sage allowed herself to be lowered into the cup. The water came up just past her waist, and she couldn’t help but sigh in relief as the warmth enveloped her tiny body. She clutches Mackenzie’s pinkie finger, still scared of slipping under. Memories of their time in the river flashed through her mind. Mackenzie gently begins to wash her along with the fabric of her tiny garments. He was delicate yet thorough, ensuring that every part of her—from the tips of her hair down to her belly and her minuscule toes—was gently scrubbed clean.

From across the room, Jace watched the scene unfold, a smile tugging at her lips. Despite the gravity of their situation, Mackenzie's care for Sage was undeniably endearing. He treated her like she was his own child. Jace still had trouble wrapping her mind around Sage’s existence.

Jace commented, her amusement plain. "You're quite the doting guardian, Mackenzie."

He shrugged, his blue eyes softened as he regarded the tiny girl.

Sage pouted in the soapy water, but her expression softened as the grime washed away, and she began to feel the comforting touch of cleanliness.

Mackenzie swaddled Sage in a scrap of clean cloth, the fabric engulfing her tiny frame like a cocoon. She was set down on the wooden table, where she fumbled with the dampness of her attire. She slipped out of her wet clothes and dropped them onto Mackenzie's waiting hand with deft movements.

"Here," he murmured, handing her the dry clothing from the night before. Then, he deposited the tiny, soaked garment near the fireplace, where the gentle heat promised to chase away the last remnants of moisture. "We'll craft you some new clothes. It won't do to have you in just one outfit." His words were practical.

"Feeling better?" Mackenzie teased, catching her eye with a knowing glance.

"Maybe," she muttered, her voice barely audible. Beneath the bravado, Sage wrestled with her own turmoil. Anger simmered under the surface, a slow burn at Mackenzie's failure to protect her from Mathis. Nightmares haunted her sleep, images of the cruel giant who saw her as nothing more than a trinket to be claimed.

Yet there was also the gnawing fear of dependency. Her people, the borrowers, were fiercely self-reliant, and every moment of kindness from Mackenzie chipped away at the wall she had built around herself. Did he view her as a person, or was she merely a project to him—a pet to be doted upon?

"Hey," Mackenzie said softly, sensing the shift in her mood. He paused, giving her his full attention. "I know it's tough, Sage. But I want you to know you're not alone in this. We're a team, okay?"

"Okay," she whispered back, the word lingering like a fragile promise.

Jace watched Will head out into the snow. He turned back once to flash her a smile, then trudged off into the trees.

Jace sighed, a flush creeping into her cheeks. She focused on the little borrower girl watching her with wary brown eyes.

Sage sat cross-legged on the table, her hands folded neatly in her lap. She looked impossibly small, surrounded by the remnants of their meal. "Are you and Will mates?” she said, her voice high-pitched, giving Jace a deceptively innocent smile.

"Oh, no, it's not like that!" Jace said quickly. Her face felt hot enough to fry an egg on. "Will and I are just…friends. We were keeping each other warm, that's all."

Sage frowned, clearly confused.

Jace groaned, dropping her head into her hands. This was not a conversation she had been prepared to have today. Or ever.

Jace jerked her head up at the giggling from the tiny, mouse-sized girl. Jace stared as she realized the tiny girl was teasing her. “Oh, you think you’re funny, do you?”

“I’m just messing with you. But I do know you like him.” Sage smiled up at Jace.

“Oh my God, please don’t mention that to him.”

“Hehe, I could keep quiet, especially if you give me a piece of that chocolate bar.”

“Alright, you drive a hard bargain.” Jace chuckled but retrieved the chocolate bar from their supplies. Jace watched in amusement as Sage’s face lit up in delight.

Jace felt she and the little borrower girl would become fast friends.

Jace watched Sage nibble at the piece of chocolate, still amazed at how small she was.

"Do all borrowers live in the walls of houses?" she asked. Sage shook her head.

"I guess. We live wherever it is safe. I guess we tend to follow you big beans around. But some families live underground, in trees, sometimes in old barns or sheds."

Sage glanced away, she said, voice wavering only slightly. "Mother always said borrowers must be ready to move at any time. We know our homes might not last forever." She gave Jace a brave smile. "At least now I have a new home. Even if you are giant beans."

Jace felt a rush of affection for the tiny girl. She reached out, hesitating, then gently cupped Sage in her hands. "Will and I will keep you safe. I promise."

Sage relaxed into her hands, the tension bleeding from her petite body.

Day 2:

The cabin echoed with the sounds of Mackenzie working the hides into leather, his hands moving with ease. He glanced over at Sage, sitting on the table. The borrower girl was frowning, her delicate fingers fumbling with a piece of rabbit hide that dwarfed her petite form.

"Need some help with that?" Mackenzie offered, his deep voice gentle, trying to mask his concern for her evident frustration.

Sage's frown deepened, and she shook her blond head vehemently, her brown eyes flashing with a fire that belied her minuscule stature. "I can do it myself! I know how." she snapped.

Mackenzie held up his hands in surrender, backing off. He knew she liked being able to do things herself, and he noticed her increasing frustration at being coddled.

"Let me know if you change your mind," he said softly, turning back to his own work while keeping an eye on her from the periphery of his vision.

Time passed in a blend of silence and Sage's occasional grunts. Her tiny frame leaned into the task, cutting with an improvised blade. She measured and marked the hide with precision, furrowing her brows in concentration.

Mackenzie couldn’t help but admire her. Despite her struggles, she cut the material into a tiny garment. It was clear she knew what she was doing, even if the sheer scale of the task was overwhelming.

He continued his work in solidarity, respecting her need for independence. She might have been tiny compared to him, a mere four inches to his six-foot frame, but Sage would ask for help if needed.

Jace approached the table, her movements careful not to startle the tiny girl busy with her crafting. With a small clearing of her throat, she placed an assortment of items by Sage's side—a coil of wire, snippets of colorful threads, and a few beads.

"Thought you might like these," Jace said softly, her voice carrying warmth.

Sage paused, her brown eyes lifting from her work to evaluate the offerings. The tools were precious, especially to one of her size, and the gesture did not go unnoticed. "Thank you," she murmured, giving Jace a big smile.

"Welcome," Jace smiled, pushing up her glasses as she watched Sage return to her project. A tenuous and delicate bond was forming.

Night 3:

Night descended, casting the cabin into shadows save for the flickering glow of the fireplace. Mackenzie and Jace shared a bed, conserving heat against the chill that crept through the wooden walls. Sage lay nestled under Mackenzie's protective hand, a cocoon of warmth and safety.

It was the deep, silent hour of the night when Sage stirred. She wriggled free from the gentle hold, climbing gingerly over the rise and fall of Mackenzie's chest. Her heart raced as she navigated the treacherous terrain between him and Jace, each breath they took threatening to draw her back into the valley of blankets.

As she attempted to descend to the floor, Mackenzie's hand moved, curling protectively around her. She flinched, caught in the sleepy gaze of the man who had become her guardian.

"Can't sleep again, huh?" Mackenzie's voice rumbled softly from above her.

Sage glanced up, meeting his concerned blue eyes. He had a way of looking at her that made her feel seen, yet was she more than just a fragile creature to him? The thought gnawed at her, even as she yearned for the safety his presence offered.

"Am I…am I just a pet to you?" she asked, her voice quivering with vulnerability.

"Never," he said firmly, his expression earnest. "I see a person, not a pet."

Her heart skipped, warmed by his words, yet the insecurity lingered. She wanted to believe him, but old fears died hard.

"Try to rest," Mackenzie coaxed, "We've got a big day tomorrow."

"I just…" Her pout was defiant even as she struggled to find words. "I want to explore. Too much energy."

Heaving a sigh, he lifted her clear of the bedding's trap, his breath warm as it swept across her. His hand lowered to the floor, and she scampered away, her form swallowed by the darkness of the cabin.

In the seclusion of shadow, Sage worked on her secret endeavor. A safety pin unfurled into a hook, string meticulously tied to create a lifeline. She tucked the tool into a bag of her own making.

Day 4:

"Can't you just try to take a nap?" Mackenzie coaxed during the day, his brow creasing with concern as he watched her struggle with fatigue.

"Leave me alone!" Sage snapped, her voice sharp as a splinter. "I don't need your help!"

From across the room, Jace couldn't suppress a chuckle at the sight of the minuscule girl standing defiantly against Mackenzie's towering figure. Yet, despite the humor, Jace admired how gently he handled Sage's outbursts and how carefully he cradled her when she finally succumbed to exhaustion.

"Maybe she just needs to feel like she's in control," Jace suggested later, observing the dynamic between the mismatched pair. "She's been through a lot."

Mackenzie nodded thoughtfully, watching as Sage's chest rose and fell in the rhythm of a troubled sleep.

When Sage woke, Mackenzie finally addressed the elephant—or perhaps the borrower—in the room.

"Sage, we need to talk about—"

"About how you let that giant Mathis take me?" Sage cut him off sharply, her voice quivering with fear and anger.

Mackenzie exhaled, his blue eyes meeting hers steadily. "I am sorry for that, more than you know. But I need you to understand that I won’t just hand you off to someone else. I promise we'll go slow at Perseverance Mills. No one will see you until you're ready—if you ever are."

"And if I want to live like a borrower again?" Her voice was faint, exposing her most profound vulnerability.

"Then you can live in my walls and borrow all you need from me."

For a long moment, Sage was still, her thoughts racing. Then she nestled into his curled fingers; a sigh escaped her.

"Okay," she whispered, allowing herself the comfort of his warmth.

Day 5:

The frosty breath of dawn curled through the trees as Mackenzie shouldered his pack, the weight settling familiarly against his back. The crisp air nipped at the exposed skin on his face, and he adjusted his toque with a gloved hand. Sage shifted in his chest pocket, snug within and dressed in her new rabbit fur clothes, peeking out to gaze at the vast wilderness before them. She clutched her new bag containing her newly crafted borrowing gear close.

"Ready, little one?" Mackenzie's voice was a gentle rumble; vibrations felt more than heard through the fabric cocooning her.

Sage nodded, her tiny hands clutching the edge of the pocket.

Scanning the horizon with a practiced eye, Jace hoisted her bag and stepped closer. "We should make good time if we keep a steady pace. Weather seems on our side today."

Mackenzie glanced over his shoulder, the corners of his eyes crinkling in silent appreciation for Jace's optimism. He knew the journey ahead would test them. But he felt confident the three of them would do just fine.

Note: This is the final chapter of this story. I hope, dear readers, that you've enjoyed it so far. I plan to write part two later in the year. I'll be planning to work on some other WIPs until then.

[tifa1991]

Hello everyone. This is my first attempt to write something in english which is not my first language. I hope it is not that bad and that you like it if not let me know.

I also would like to try to take requests what should happen between law and the Reader but only sfw stuff.

Information.

Reader was on a Mission and had to travel with a Crew of Bad Pirates. But the ship somehow comes near the Island Punk Hazard and can't manage to reach the entrance. The Captain escapes with some of his crewmates on his rescueboot leaving the Reader to herself. Thanks to her devilfruitpowers she reaches a Point on the Island between the fire and the iceside, not knowing she will meet someone again.

You were sweating like hell after a short walk on the fireside of Punk Hazard. Your long wavy Hair was wet and stuck everywhere. It was hard for you to breath, something you had to be careful with, as your power was one reason for it. Aerofruit parameciatype gave you the ability to control the air and wind. But if you would use to much of it at a time or in a small room it would affect the air around you so much that you would have a hard time breathing. As you walked the small path you finally reached a small Part of the River leaving you perplex by the View of the Landscape. While on your side to view and temperatures were like hell the other side seemed like a winterwonderland ready to freeze evething in its merciless storm of big snowflakes.

"What the fuck" you mumbeld "Akainu and Aokiji really put all to their fight".

Of cause Punk Hazard was not a name you never heard Off, as the vicecaptain and Assassine of your Crew it was in your jobdscription to know such information which could save the crew. Thinking about if it would be safe to fly over the river and maybe get caught by the storm, falling into the icewater and sink like a stone because of your devilfruitpowers or melting to death if you stayed, you choosed the first Option.

A troublesome flight lend you to finally land on the snow. It was soft, beautiful white and surrounded your whole feet.

"Oh crap" you whined with chattering teeth, clinging your Arms around you "this ist way to cold". Looking down on you with your feet in white Sneakers covered in snow, the grey tight dress in soft fabric getting stiff from the coldness extra fast, because of being wet from your sweat, thanks to the hot islandside earlier. Ai you would freeze to death instead of melting if you couldn't find some place to warm up and warm clothes.

You continued your way towards the mountains, hoping the in snowcovered building you saw while flying earlier wasn't just imagination.

It took you quit a while to reach the big steelgate, beeing releaved at first your hopes turned to snowflakes as it wouldn't open. Would've been to easy otherwise.

"It has electricity and a camera" you waved at it "hello? I...i am sor...sorry but i'm shipwrecked and i need Help" raising your voice with effort, feeling the pain of the cold in every bone and nerve you have. Strands of your hair wet and Frozen covered in thick snowflakes.

No answer.

"Okay if you won't let...me...in, i will...cut my way through it" with robotic movements of your arms you reached behind your lower back where on a special belt your two Sais were hold. Not the best to cut steel thinking about the swords Zorro has, you had to try it at least and with the combination of your aeropowers it might work.

As your already blue fingertips reached the handle of your Sais, a heavy Sound appeared and the Gate opend.

You looked to the camera, nooding a thank you and ran into the building.

It wasn't warm in there but much better than being in the storm.

Still your arms wrapped around yourself you followed the metallic hallway till you reached a crossroad. Following the right path you could soon see doors which one on the left side was slightly open.

You knocked.

No Response.

You opend the door completly to enter the room irritated by the big desk, weird containers filled with yellow bubbeling liquid.

"What the hell is this place?"

A 'click' drew your attention behind you as a tall man in a long black coat and a long sword, locked the door behind you.

"Assassine Y/N L/N Vicecaptain of the Spirapirates Bounty of 260Million Berry" the man said in a smokey deep voice, mustering you with his grey eyes.

Your eyes widend with surprise a smirk slightly crossed your blue lips.

"Trafalgar Law. What a lovely surprise. I guess you opend the Gate for me?"you said in an sarcastic tone.

You knew him. You've met him three times already. First time on an Island near the Sabaody Archipel, you, your Captain, Bepo and him got even stuck in a damn icecave. Nexttime was on the Sabaody Archipel itself when you and also your Captain fought with him and Eustess Kid against some Pacefista.

The third time you've just seen him at Marine Ford saving Luffy.

And for that, you felt like you owned him.

You might have been surprise to see him here but were also happy and took a step forward him before you instinctly stopped. Something seemed off.

Law wasn't someone who talked much and was more giving 'don't even start to Talk to me or you end up in slices or without a heart' vibe. Still, you never had a feeling that he would atend to really attack your Crew. He seemed like a man who would only do it if needed.

Coming near you he asked "What are you doing here?"

"Sounds weird, but i got shipwrecked with some other stupid Pirates".

"What about your Crew? Are they here too?"

"No i came alone" your E/C eyes focused on everystep he made till he stopped at your wavering behavior while you didn't seem to notice it, while you gave him a counterquestion.

"What are you doing here?"

"None of your Business".

Jerk.

"Now that you know that i am here", he started "I'm afraid i can't let you go" still mustering you before he locked with your eyes.

"Room".

With eyes wide open you jumped back "Don't you dare" you snatched, a sharp stich following your sudden movement, stopping you from jumping high enough but still far enough to get out of his radius for now.

As you landed your Heart skipped a beat as a smokey voice and warm breath brushed against your neck and ear "Too slow".

Before you could react, Law grabbed you by your arm turning you around, your hands landing on his chest to gain some distance but he was pushing you more against him holding one of your wrists, his eyes focused on your face. The warmth of his coat and hands giving you shivers on your cold Body.

"Your lips and fingers are still blue, your pulse is low, your movements are slow and stiff, wet clothes and hair. Not the best Idea you made today".

"What...the...h...hell are you talking about?" You couldn't even try to fight, feeling the dizziness coming over you nearly knocking you out.

"Keeping you warm and stealing your heart" he sounded so smooth, so relaxing to you while his face turned into a blur and the last word you heard from him meaning trouble.

"Room".

Trafalgar got on one knee, holding your upper body with it and his arm around you, his free hand over your chest "scalpel" he whispered.

Holding your heart now in his hand he placed it safely into the inside of his coat, then he tooked you bridalstyle out of the room.

[i-can-even-burn-salad]

Stranded

Thorns & Jasmine

In which Caldyn took an involuntary bath.

Warnings: None. He’s wet. Put him on a clothesline, and he’ll be fine.

Previous | Masterlist | Next

“There is a plant person sitting at the river upstream.”

Marian lifted her head, her finger still resting on a page of the book she had just read. She furrowed her brows in confusion.

“There is what now?”

“One of those plant people,” Otis repeated. “Kalani they are called, I think. Luke wanted to play and saw it and came running back to tell me.”

With a sigh, Marian closed her book, sliding a scrap of paper in between the pages, so she would be able to continue later.

“Do you know what they are doing?” she asked while getting up.

She wasn’t sure if she should be concerned. For all she knew, those people were kind and not a threat. On the other hand, it was rare for any of them to come this far north. They were still in the Sentient Wilds, the homeland of the kalani, but in all her years in this little settlement, she had only ever seen a handful of them.

“I don’t know.” Otis shrugged in an so obviously casual manner, it looked everything but casual. “He just said it’s sitting there. Scared him good.”

“All right. I’ll go check.”

She reached for her shawl, draping the white fabric around her shoulders, a stark contrast to her maroon dress and her dark skin. Cecelia always made fun of her for wearing such bright, easy to stain colors, here, in the middle of a swamp. It wasn’t her who usually came home with dirt-stained clothes and ripped tunics, though.

“You want to go alone?” The sound of Otis’ voice spoke of his concern. 

Marian shrugged. “I have no reason to assume they are hostile,” she said. “Perhaps they aren’t used to humans, either. I don’t want to scare them.”

Despite her words, she was a bit nervous as she followed the river upstream. Being alert wasn’t the same as being scared, she told herself, scanning the riverbank. Most of it was overgrown, high grass and low bushes reaching from the not very well maintained path down to the water. She stepped around a fallen branch, nudging it off the path with her foot, and when she raised her head, she saw the creature Otis had been talking about.

The kalani was sitting next to the river, on a strip of sandy shore. They didn’t look threatening, with their shoulders hunched and their arms wrapped around themselves. In fact, if they were a human, she would say they looked scared, perhaps even hurt.

Marian approached slowly, carefully. “Hello,” she spoke in a low voice as soon as she was standing no more than a few steps away.

The kalani’s head jerked up. They were moving it slightly from side to side, eyes open wide. Something was wrong about them, pale and white and empty. Marian took a closer look at the creature, noticing for the first time that they were dripping wet, a dark trail of water leading from the shore to the spot where they were sitting. Marian took another step towards them and crouched down.

“My name is Marian,” she said, and at the sound of her voice the kalani flinched, moving their head again. “I mean you no harm. Are you hurt?”

They didn’t reply.

“Can you… understand me?” she asked quietly.

Finally the kalani nodded, and Marian breathed a sigh of relief. That was something to work with. She tried to remember the last time she had met one of them. It had been more than a year ago, when one of their hunters had come to the settlement, to trade meat for some new weapons. They had been a bit strange, yet friendly, and they hadn’t stayed long. Nothing of their behavior had been similar to this kalani’s, and there was no way for her to tell what was normal and what wasn’t.

If she didn’t know how to treat a kalani, she’d have to treat them like a human. Like a scared human she didn’t know. Great.

With this conclusion in mind, she sat down spreading her skirt around her crossed legs, pulling her shawl closer around her shoulders.

“I’m not sure if you need help,” she started, watching the creature as she spoke, “but you don’t look well. Is there anything I can do for you?”

No reply.

“Or do you want me to leave?”

No reply.

“Can you speak?” she asked carefully.

The kalani opened their mouth, then closed it again, nodding weakly.

Marian sighed. “All right. I take it you can understand me, and you can generally speak, but not at this very moment.” She paused, but another weak nod was all the reaction she got. Better than nothing, at least. “And I think you can’t see me, am I right?” Another nod and the kalani pressed their hands against their temples.

Now she noticed how much they were trembling. Were they cold from being so wet, or were they that scared? And of what? She couldn’t help but cast a quick glance over her shoulder, but of course there was nothing.

“It’s okay,” she said, taking a deep breath. “As I said, my name is Marian, and I’m a human. You’re sitting next to a river that leads to our settlement. There is nothing dangerous here. I am alone, and I won’t harm you.”

At her words, the kalani lowered their hands, letting them sink into their lap. They opened their mouth, but again, no words came out. Instead another sound came closer, one Marian had never heard before. It sounded like the bark of a dog, but not quite. She looked around, wondering if one of the dogs had followed her from the settlement. She couldn’t see anything.

The kalani reacted to the sound, too. They seemed agitated, turning their head towards the river, shifting their body. Marian looked in the same direction and saw a creature on the other shore. She had to blink twice, not believing her eyes. It looked like a small dog, perhaps reaching up to her knee, but it seemed to consist purely of plant matter. Instead of fur, its body was covered with shimmering leaves in different hues of green, with a hint of blue at the tips. She had never heard of a creature like that, but the thought that those two belonged together wasn’t too far-fetched.

It had reached their position and kept running back and forth, pawing at the water, barking and whining.

“Is this your pet?” she asked, and the kalani nodded weakly.

They seemed so desperate. She wasn’t sure if the expression of human emotions applied to them, but that was all she had to work with.

“I’m getting up. I’ll see if it allows me to bring it over, all right?”

She waited a moment, but there was no reaction to her words. She wasn’t even sure the kalani had heard her, they seemed to be completely focused on the creature that was now slowly calming down.

Cecelia will make so much fun of me, Marian thought as she stepped into the river. It was deeper than she had thought, reaching up to her waist after two steps, but the current wasn’t very strong. She could wade right through, towards the little dog who watched her approach with its tail between its legs.

“Don’t worry, little one. You want to get to your friend, don’t you?” she cooed, lowering herself a bit, at least as far as she could without drenching her clothes fully. She extended her hand, keeping it an arm’s length away from the creature. “I can help you, if you let me.”

It came closer, very slowly, very carefully. Just like a real dog, it sniffed her hand, whining softly. When it didn’t run away, she raised her hand, touching its side, stroking its back. It still didn’t run away.

“All right my friend, it’s getting cold here, so…”

She took a deep breath and dared to reach under the dog’s body, pulling it closer. It looked at her with trusting eyes, even as she lifted it slowly, using her other hand to steady its lower body.

“That’s right. Good boy,” she praised it as she stepped back into the water. “Just hold still, won’t take long. Don’t jump off now. You’re doing great. See, we’re almost there. Aaand here we go.”

As soon as the other shore was in reach, she crouched down, releasing the dog. It jumped out of her arms, ran towards the kalani and jumped up on them. The kalani closed their arms around it, and it licked their face while they hugged it. At that moment, they looked so very human.

Marian smiled as she sat down again, just waiting. She wanted to make sure they were fine before she left. When she noticed their head moving, turning from side to side as if searching for something, she decided to speak up.

“I’m here,” she said.

“Thank you.”

The kalani’s voice was strange, somehow hard and stiff. But the words were easy enough to understand, and that was all that mattered.

“You’re welcome. Are you hurt?”

This time, they shook their head. “I just slipped. Fell into the river.”

“You can’t swim?” Marian asked.

“I can. I—” They froze for a moment, wrapping their arms around the dog, who didn’t seem to mind. “I lost orientation,” they said quietly. “I didn’t know… which way was up. Or how to get out.”

Of course, that must be pretty terrifying. It would be easier for her to swim towards the surface. Not so much if one was panicking, couldn’t see the shore, was thrown around by the current, no matter how weak.

“I lost my staff, too. I don’t know… what to do without.”

Their voice was still stiff, not carrying any emotion like the voices of humans did, but their posture was so forlorn.

“Did you lose it in the water?”

The kalani nodded.

“I’ll go to our settlement and check if it ended up in one of our fishing nets. I’ll come back, even if I can’t find it, all right?”

The kalani nodded again and Marian got up. She hesitated.

“You’re all wet. Are you cold?”

The kalani shrugged. “It’s… cold, I guess?” They raised one hand, stroking the leaves on their other arm. “I don’t think I get cold like you do. But it’s not very pleasant.”

“Here.” Marian pulled off her shawl, holding it out, then realizing that it wouldn’t quite work like that. “Hold out your hand, please, I want to give you something.”

The kalani raised their left hand, and she put her wadded shawl into it.

“Try to dry yourself. I’ll be back in a bit.”

Marian walked back to the village, silencing the many questions that awaited her with a gesture of her hand.

“Later,” she said, and her tone made the voices die down. “There is a kalani, and they are not dangerous. They lost something, a staff. It might have floated down the river, could you please check if it ended up in one of our fishing nets?” A few people nodded, swarming off. “Otis? Could you please bring me some food, and a way to transport it?”

Otis nodded as well and walked back to his house.

“Are you alright?” Cecelia’s voice made Marian spin around. Seeing her brought a smile on her face, like always. “You are… wet. You never get your clothes dirty like that.”

“I’m fine,” she said with a laugh. “Better don’t get used to this, it won’t happen again.”

“Here it is, I think!”

Luke came running, carrying a staff made from polished wood. Patterns were carved in one end of it and soft leather wrapped around a part of it, probably where the kalani was holding it. The position was too high to be of any use for any but the tallest human.

“Thank you, Luke. Good work,” Marian said while taking the staff.

“Here, Marian.” Otis was back as well, handing her a bag. “Half a loaf of bread, some sweet cinnamon bread and some dried apples. I didn’t know if they eat meat or—” He paused, his eyes widened. “What if they eat only meat? Do they even eat plants? Wouldn’t that be cannibalism?”

Marian laughed. “Is it cannibalism if you eat a chicken?”

Otis’ face turned red. He muttered something, looking to the ground, and Marian took bag and staff in the same hand, to pat his shoulder reassuringly with the other. “I don’t know what this one eats. I’ll have to ask,” she said, then started to walk.

Cecelia followed her, waiting until they had put some distance between themselves and the others before she couldn’t contain her curiosity any longer. “Do you know why they’re here? Do they want to visit? Can I come with you? I’d love to see them,” she said.

“Sorry my love, I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Marian changed her language to that of her homeland, keeping her voice low. “They’re quite scared. I don’t want to overwhelm them.”

Cecelia’s eyes went wide. “Oh.” She, too, switched to Marian’s mother language. “Of course. Did anything happen to them?”

Marian shook her head, but ended the gesture with a shrug. “I’m not sure. They said no, but… they’re far from home, and apparently alone. I’m not sure I’d trust strangers in their place. I wonder what brought them here. Perhaps I’ll ask, if I get the opportunity. I should go now. I’ll tell you everything later.”

Cecelia nodded, giving Marian a quick kiss, then looking after her as she hurried back to the path. Marian turned around one more time, giving her a smile and a wave, before she turned around for good, to walk back to the spot where she had left the kalani. They were still sitting there. Her shawl was draped around their shoulders, partially covering their arms and their chest. It looked so out of place, she could have laughed.

At the sound of her approaching steps, they raised their head, listening in her direction.

“It’s me,” she called out. “I’m back.”

This time she didn’t see the need to approach as carefully and walked quickly up to them, pausing right in front of them.

“I think I found your staff. Hold out your hand, please.”

They did, and the moment she placed the wood into it, they raised their second hand, too, closing both around the staff. Their fingers stroked the wood, following the bands of the leather strips, reaching for the carved pattern.

“Thank you, Marian.”

Her name from their lips sounded strange, but it made her smile. She realized that she didn’t know their name.

“I’m sorry, I haven’t even asked your name.”

“My name is Caldyn,” they said, and she could see that they hesitated for a moment, as if they wanted to say more. But they didn’t.

“Glad to meet you, Caldyn.”

Marian remembered the bag in her hand. “I brought you some food. That is… if you want it.” Suddenly Otis’ worries didn’t seem so strange anymore. “It’s bread and fruit, mostly.” Did kalani even know what bread was? Would it be rude to question it? She knew so little about them, it was a shame.

“I don’t have anything to pay,” they said, and Marian shook her head energetically.

“No, a gift. Here. Give me your hand.” They did so, a third time, and Marian placed the bag in it. “Don’t worry about it. You can keep it all. You can keep the shawl, too.”

They placed the bag into their lap and tugged at the fabric around their shoulders.

“I don’t want to be rude, but… what are you doing here?” she finally asked. “Are you living somewhere nearby? We usually don’t see many of your people.” She couldn’t imagine they had wandered far.

They were quiet for a while.

“I think for now… I am living nearby. I don’t know yet if I’ll stay. I wandered for a long time and I got tired of it.” Another pause, then they raised their head, as if they had just thought of something. “I didn’t know there were humans nearby. I hope you don’t mind?”

Marian laughed. “Mind? This is your land, Caldyn. But no, even if it wasn’t, we wouldn’t mind. If you stay, you should visit us sometime. Just ask for me or Cecelia.”

She waited for a reply, but there was none. She couldn’t blame them. Perhaps it was all a bit much, if they weren’t used to humans just like she wasn’t used to kalani.

When they finally spoke, their voice was quiet. “Perhaps.” She couldn’t tell if they liked this idea or not. “But right now, I should go home. I’m tired,” they added even more quietly.

“Where do you live? Is it far?”

Caldyn hesitated. “I’m… not sure. I don’t know how far the water took me.” Their fingers turned the staff, slightly back and forth. “I need to remember the way if I want to visit.”

So they considered it. It made Marian smile, before she realized the meaning of their words and her smile faltered. They could follow the river upstream to find their way, but would they be able to find the place where they had fallen into the water?

“Do you need help finding your way back?”

Caldyn shook their head.

“No. Aska can lead me. But thank you for your offer.”

Marian nodded, even if they couldn’t see it. She figured Aska was the little dog, resting contently next to the kalani. Then she thought of something else.

“Do you live on this side of the river, or on the other side?”

She still wasn’t quite sure about their expressions, but this one seemed pained.

“On the other side,” they said quietly, tightening their grip around the staff.

“Would you mind if I helped you across?”

They hesitated again, but not quite as long this time.

“Please.”

“All right.” Marian stood up, thinking how they’d best manage to get across. “I’d say I take the bag, and you take your staff and your dog — do you think you can manage both?”

Caldyn nodded, unfolding their legs, standing up slowly. They probed the area around them with their staff, and Marian realized that they probably used it to orient themselves. How lost must they have been without it, without their pet, not knowing where the water had taken them. No wonder they had been so terrified.

When they held out the bag, Marian reached for it, taking it into her right hand.

“I think it’s best if I stay downstream of you, just in case.”

Caldyn nodded as they bowed down, picking up the dog. When they straightened up again and Marian stepped next to them, she realized how tall they were. Marian herself wasn’t too small, but she barely reached up to their shoulder.

“Do you mind if I touch your arm?” she asked, and Caldyn shook their head.

She reached for them, placing her fingers slightly below their shoulder. She wasn’t sure if the leaves she touched were a part of their body or some kind of clothing, but they felt just like she’d expect leaves to feel. Normal for a plant, a strange thing when touching another moving, feeling, talking person.

“Let’s go,” she said, guiding them towards the water.

Their steps were small, careful, their arm moving under her touch as they used the staff to check for obstacles in their way. It would probably have been better to walk at their left side, but she had wanted to stay downstream from them, just in case they slipped.

Slowly, she guided them through the river, up the shore on the other side and a few steps away from the water.

“Will you be fine on your own now?”

They nodded as they let the dog down.

“I’ll walk along the river until Aska can find our way back. Thank you for your help, Marian.”

“Anytime.” She handed them the bag back, smiling. “And I mean it. If you ever need anything, you’re welcome in Murkside — that’s the name of our settlement. It’s a bit further downstream from here. You’d have to cross the river, though,” she realized a bit late. Perhaps this wasn’t such a good idea after all.

“I’ll find a way,” Caldyn said, and Marian watched how they stood perfectly still for a moment. They seemed to think, or to listen, their head slightly inclined. Then they moved again, turning into her direction. “Farewell, for now.”

“Farewell,” Marian replied, watching them walk away. They moved slowly, a few steps behind their dog, using the staff to check their way. She watched them walk towards a small tree, find it, move around it, and finally managed to tear her eyes away from their back.

What a strange creature.

She hoped that one day they’d follow her invitation.

[ID: The top image is a banner showing red, glowy plants. Across it is written the title of the story, Thorns & Jasmine, in a bright to dark green gradient. The letters are slightly thorny looking. All other images in this post are purely ornamental lines. End ID.]

Tagging: @dont-touch-my-soup​​ @whump-cravings​​​