#and i love that i might confuse some people with this

[epsilonicronecronomicon]

OC I'M ANSWERING FOR: Bitknock Bonesaw, Humblewood campaign setting

1. "I don't know how I got this/I don't know what this means." Every one of his little trinkets has a history; his life is encrypted in an unsolvable sequence of hollow clicking sounds. But he rarely lies for reasons other than safety... Some people would fear him, for what he's done. For whose feathery skin hangs from whose beaked skull he wears.

2. Not too freely. "Friend" is a label given only to people on the same moral level as him, who condemn the same people and love the same love. He does not want another chase, another "friend" to run away from like a convict, so a "friend" can only be someone who runs beside him... or someone who runs slower.

3. Most of the time, actually. He has no filter for them. If he truly wants to hide them, he will huddle in a tree alone with his giant wings obscuring his face, which could begin to wet the skin on his mask with tears. But apprehension, anger, joy? Those are even openly discussed. The only emotion he will hide is the effects of another's betrayal.

4. Play-fighting. He and the boys in his village would organize duels for the girls and younger fledglings to watch. He was always bigger, heavier, sharper— he could always win. But that wouldn't make much of a show, so he also picked up the skill of entertainment, specifically the art of being horrifying.

5. No, he cannot cry on command. He can, however, look sad like a fake-hurt puppy convincing its master to share her scraps. Usually with a similar endgame.

bro is a dog

6. He enjoys washing his own feathers with orange-pigmented rocks— a common habit in lammergeiers like him. He doubts anyone else would be interested. Sometimes he even finds a rock that makes it look like dried blood.

7. Most people he knows just call him "Bonesaw", which is a wonderfully badass thing to call out in a crowd. He has very good hearing; it always works. Some of his party members might someday refer to him as Bitknock; this would be a new and oddly pleasant experience for him.

8. He's never said it in his life, not even in knock-speak. All of his love is shown through his actions— his favors or his cries or his touch.

9. I would say gentle love, but in a very... confused and unrecognizable way. He's not totally sure how to show it or when to show it, so he will typically only show pure unbridled affection when it is shown to him first. Like if he is given a hug. As for recieving, he will never have a preference.

10. That the skull rings he knocks together to communicate and digs in the ground to mark his territory or sign a letter? They can play music too!! They sound like spooky skeletal castanets.

11. They'd ask him to play his music or use knock-speak. His specific style takes months, even years to learn, and a doppelganger only springing into existence that day might not know a single song or sentence.

12. He doesn't laugh at things he finds funny— the closest he might get to laughter is joyful squeaks whilst play-fighting. That's how you know he really likes a fight, or really likes you. He'll just be calling.

13. Bitknock doesn't smile. He doesn't fake it, either.

14. A sharp exhale is typically enough to do it. A small fire on the ground might be put out with a slam of his fist.

15. While in combat, he's twitchy and silent, showing no emotion and striking fear into the enemy. In a large group by the fire he's much more talkative. Alone, he's inquisitive or deep in thought, but silent nonetheless. Alone with someone else, he's either killing them or gently, kindly holding their hand.

16. People with a strong, unshakeable sense of morality. Or justice.

17. Most others first notice his unusual size for a Raptor, or his gigantic spiky wings, or his nightmarish, unreal disposition. In the mirror, he notices his eyes glowing under the mask.

18. Her name is Thimphina Muku La Kivi. She's a socially inept nomadic owl girl with a secret lurking under her humble tree-torn cloak. They know each other through their travels <3

19. Be silently angry, maybe grumble and literally push them back if they try to interact with him. No way is he dealing with this right now. If he's gonna talk about how he's feeling he's doing it when HE chooses to so fuck all that noise forever

20. He doesn't know anybody like that. Yet.

will add to this later

@wearethesensum IMPORTANT if you want Ambrose to make a good impression

WEIRDLY SPECIFIC BUT HELPFUL CHARACTER BUILDING QUESTIONS

What’s the lie your character says most often?

How loosely or strictly do they use the word ‘friend’?

How often do they show their genuine emotions to others versus just the audience knowing?

What’s a hobby they used to have that they miss?

Can they cry on command? If so, what do they think about to make it happen?

What’s their favorite [insert anything] that they’ve never recommended to anyone before?

What would you (mun) yell in the middle of a crowd to find them? What would their best friend and/or romantic partner yell?

How loose is their use of the phrase ‘I love you’?

Do they give tough love or gentle love most often? Which do they prefer to receive?

What fact do they excitedly tell everyone about at every opportunity?

If someone was impersonating them, what would friends / family ask or do to tell the difference?

What’s something that makes them laugh every single time? Be specific!

When do they fake a smile? How often?

How do they put out a candle?

What’s the most obvious difference between their behavior at home, at work, at school, with friends, and when they’re alone?

What kinds of people do they have arguments with in their head?

What do they notice first in the mirror versus what most people first notice looking at them?

Who do they love truly, 100% unconditionally (if anyone)?

What would they do if stuck in a room with the person they’ve been avoiding?

Who do they like as a person but hate their work? Vice versa, whose work do they like but don’t like the person?

What common etiquette do they disagree with? Do they still follow it?

What simple activity that most people do / can do scares your character?

What do they feel guilty for that the other person(s) doesn’t / don’t even remember?

Did they take a cookie from the cookie jar? What kind of cookie was it?

What subject / topic do they know a lot about that’s completely useless to the direct plot?

How would they respond to being fired by a good boss?

What’s the worst gift they ever received? How did they respond?

What do they tell people they want? What do they actually want?

How do they respond when someone doesn’t believe them?

When they make a mistake and feel bad, does the guilt differ when it’s personal versus when it’s professional?

When do they feel the most guilt? How do they respond to it?

If they committed one petty crime / misdemeanor, what would it be? Why?

How do they greet someone they dislike / hate?

How do they greet someone they like / love?

What is the smallest, morally questionable choice they’ve made?

Who do they keep in their life for professional gain? Is it for malicious intent?

What’s a secret they haven’t told serious romantic partners and don’t plan to tell?

What hobby are they good at in private, but bad at in front of others? Why?

Would they rather be invited to an event to feel included or be excluded from an event if they were not genuinely wanted there?

How do they respond to a loose handshake? What goes through their head?

What phrases, pronunciations, or mannerisms did they pick up from someone / somewhere else?

If invited to a TED Talk, what topic would they present on? What would the title of their presentation be?

What do they commonly misinterpret because of their own upbringing / environment / biases? How do they respond when realizing the misunderstanding?

What language would be easiest for them to learn? Why?

What’s something unimportant / frivolous that they hate passionately?

Are they a listener or a talker? If they’re a listener, what makes them talk? If they’re a talker, what makes them listen?

Who have they forgotten about that remembers them very well?

Who would they say ‘yes’ to if invited to do something they abhorred / strongly didn’t want to do?

Would they eat something they find gross to be polite?

What belief / moral / personality trait do they stand by that you (mun) personally don’t agree with?

What’s a phrase they say a lot?

Do they act on their immediate emotions, or do they wait for the facts before acting?

Who would / do they believe without question?

What’s their instinct in a fight / flight / freeze / fawn situation?

What’s something they’re expected to enjoy based on their hobbies / profession that they actually dislike / hate?

If they’re scared, who do they want comfort from? Does this answer change depending on the type of fear?

What’s a simple daily activity / motion that they mess up often?

How many hobbies have they attempted to have over their lifetime? Is there a common theme?

[cinnamanz]

# DARLING, I — chapter fifty-two!

when new york city’s widely-known spider-woman's life becomes unknowingly entwined with a member of the rising global girl group katseye, she learns that juggling superhero duties, university, and a sudden crush may or may not just be the downfall of her. but hey, at least she's helping people, right?

THE END

frozen at the sight of manon holding one of the red spider-woman masks, y/n shuffles around the room awkwardly, slowly backing up to the window and slipping a leg out of the ajar space. “sorry, wrong room.”

“i know that’s you, y/n. come back here or i’ll drag you back inside myself.” y/n sighs as she pulls her leg out of the window, following the other’s command obediently as she tugs her mask off, revealing her band-aid littered face. manon clicks her tongue. “and here i thought you were cheating on me.”

confusion washes over the taller’s features, head tilting as her lips pressed into a thin line, shaking her head. “seriously? you think i’d ever cheat on you? i mean, i might have hit my head many times from being spider-woman, but i haven’t hit it that hard that it compels me to cheat on you.” she retorted, the thought of cheating on manon highly offensive.

manon scoffs at her witty response, brows raising at her as if to challenge her, crossing her arms over her chest. “please. the past dates we’ve had, you either cancelled or left halfway through. who wouldn’t think you were cheating?”

“okay, valid. but if i were cheating, i wouldn’t come back all bruised and shit.”

“shut up about cheating now. i thought you joined some kind of fight club. you know, like the movie?” manon said with a sigh of irritation, running a hand through her braids. “i mean, it was the only thing that made sense at the time.”

“manz, i’m a university student that part-times as florist. you really think i’d have the time to join a fight club?” y/n responds, flabbergasted at her words, something that grows bigger every word that escapes her lips, while manon takes the initiative to approach her and grab the mask from her hand, tossing it somewhere behind her shoulder.

“shut up.” she mumbled, wrapping her arms around the superhero’s neck, eyes raking over every single feature, as if engraving it in her memory. she brings a hand up to her face, the pad of her thumb running across y/n's cheek adoringly.

“you’re annoying.” pressing her lips against the other’s soft ones, she leaned up slightly on her tip-toes, a hand snaking its way to the back of y/n’s head and pulled her even closer, lips moving in a slow dance as she poured every single bottled feelings into the kiss.

y/n’s arms instinctively wrapped around the singer’s waist, smiling into the kiss before manon had pulled back for air. “be my girlfriend?”

“took you long enough to ask.”

pressing a quick peck on her lips with a chuckle, a light bulb appears on y/n’s head. “hey, wanna go on a swing around the city? i wanna show you something i made earlier.”

manon nods, willing to go wherever the superhero takes her. “if you drop me, i'll kill you.”

“it’s fine. i’ll catch you anyway.” 

“i don’t care. drop me and i’ll break up with you.”

"thought you said you'll kill me?"

"ugh, stop being smart and carry me already!"

masterlist 🕸️🕷✮⋆˙

imagine being accused of cheating when yall arent even dating yet n e ways ID LIKE TO THANK EACH N EVERY ONE OF U WHO'D SUPPORTED THIS SMAU TILL THE VERY END I LOVE U ALL SM <333

taglist : @yeetaberry127 @urmom2314 @lararajjj @artrizzler19 @ninguitar @ohmyhaely @firstclassjaylee @meganskiendielsbtc @sed7ction @modanisgf @vrtualstar @ssamlovr @grahstumhurts @sixflame438 @fearnotfearmore @c-yerim @taikabui @saturn-projector @uchinagai @goofymickeyr @rosiehrs @lunawriteskstuff @meiyoksnumberone TAGLIST CLOSED!

[ihaznoclue]

Hiii I would like to request Shadow the hedgehog with an alien!reader. They look human but have an ability that resembles light and glitter? If that makes sense lol

(If you can, could it be a stranger’s 2 lovers? If you only do platonic that���s fine! Reader would be also be on Sonic’s side and living with the trio)

Pairings -> Shadow the Hedgehog x Alien Reader

Warnings -> None

Note -> Reader is a alien who looks like a human but have the ability that resembles light and glitter

Genre -> Fluff [Strangers to Lovers]

Shadow The Hedgehog

You're both aliens at this point

But you were more human looking which is a good thing as people never seem to like aliens

You were like a alien that could disguise as a human but could resemble light and glitter

Which is a weird thing that most people might think but you think it is cool

Ever since you came to earth, you never knew the interesting things you might see on the way

But sometimes it is always tough as things may happen out of the blue

After a few years of being in this world called Earth you never realised you would find the most kindest people

The Wachowski

They took you in as one of them as they already had some company

A Hedgehog, A fox and a Echidna

They all looked so adorable to you

Sonic being the first one to introduce himself as they other did so too

Now you guys were all like a big happy family

But not everything turns out happy in the end

Sonic and his friends seemed to be caught in a mission

You missed them dearly, but the Wachowskis thought they could bring you to london to take on this mission with them as they need all the help they could get

That was until you saw HIM

Shadow the hedgehog

A black and red Hedgehog, seeming to be a different version of sonic

But you came to the wrong place at the wrong time as you saw Tom on the ground, Shadow with the key in his hand as he saw you

That's how you are now taken in by him as your wrists were tied together

Trying to free yourself as you thought of idea on how to get out

Doctor eggman and his grandfather seemed to be suspicious about you seeming that you looked rather different than the Wachowskis

Shadow also thought too but didn't think much of it as it seemed like a waste of time

But Shadow knew something was up with you and he wanted to know what

During your time being captured by The robotniks, shadow had seemed to take a interest in you all of a sudden seeming that he was always the one who stood close to you

So you decided to start a conversation with you if you could only to get a huff out of him

But you didn't stop as you told him things about you

Shadow looked like he wasn't listening but actually he was

During all this, you wondered if the others were coming to get you back

But you didn't feel threatened at all as they seemed to untie you

But on one condition if Shadow supervisors you

Which you didn't mind at all seeming he was the only one you've talked to during all this

Now Shadow has become more talkative ever since he started to look after you seeing if you were trying to escape

But you never did as you always tried so hard to keep a conversation going

You were joyful, talkative and very sweet

Someone that he cared for, someone who didn't think he was a monster

You reminded him of someone he dearly loved and cared for

And he was scared if he was going to care for you, something would happen to you

Shadow tried to keep it on the down low as you were the one to always talk about stuff

Shadow took interest about the stuff you would talk about

Like how pretty flower fields are, how lovely the forests are around your home town, how your family was the best

And maybe you spilled in a little bit of something else you weren't suppose to talk about

Maybe something about you being an alien just like him

Shadow was confused until you proved it, your skin reflected on the light

It was because you trusted him enough to know

Shadow thought it was pretty, your skin shining and looked sparkly

Shadow wasn't the only alien here

The person he cared and came close to was also an alien just like him

And he is willing to protect you from anything that tries to come after you

And he was going to do the right thing

-A<3

[htelover24]

Touch me like that

Warnings: Dombillie cliffhanger ig not smut but if you use context you know what happens next

(pt 2 only if you want it)

A/N: first fanfic(idk it might just be a blurb if I’m honest) back happy new year let’s start it off dirty

Summary: r wants Billie to touch her the way she touches that damn guitar on stage

YOUR POV:

She’s on stage absolutely shredding her guitar so ruthlessly It’s inhuman. It’s almost like with every strum she picks up the pace, like she knows I’m watching….. like she knows what she’s doing to me.

It’s torture not being touched right now. I’m so painfully wet, I’m scared people can see it seeping down my already damp thighs. I cross my legs in an effort to conceal my arousal but it only makes it harder to control my whimpering.

Damn all of this from just watching her play some damn guitar. It’d be a lie if I said I wasn’t jealous of it , that damn guitar is getting more action than me. It’s like she’s mocking me, playing with me right in front of my face.

She on her knees as she turns her head and looks back stage biting her lip at me, she looks away giggling as if she knows the exact state I’m in for her. She smiles and throws her head back and if humanly possible she strums the guitar faster.

I can’t contain myself anymore I get up and speed walk to the bathroom. I groan and splash some water on my face, I do a few breathing exercises and walk back to my seat backstage to see Billie standing there. SMIRKING AT ME.

“The show is over so tell me. What exactly would you like to do.” She says with a suggestive tone.

I grab a hold of her wrist and pull her into the green room making sure to lock the door.

“Touch me like that.” I say in a desperate voice.

“Like what love, you gotta be a bit more specific.” She says with fake confusion, but I can tell she knows by that smirk that has not once left her face since getting off stage.

“Cmon Billie you know how” I say whining.

“No I don’t think I do why don’t you use that pretty mouth and tell me” she said in an obvious knowing tone.

“Please touch me like how you do your guitar it’s so hot I need it, please Billie touch me like that.” I say practically begging.

“That’s it pretty girl next time use your words for me” she says smirk never faltering.

[demigod-shenanigans]

Oh Thalia for sure is absolutely miserable about the whole thing. She’s pulled right back to when Annabeth went missing in Titan’s Curse. This is the second time she hasn’t been able to protect her, except this time there isn’t even a quest or a mission she’s supposed to be involved in that hints at where she might be. She’s just gone. Vanished overnight without a trace. And then finding out Jason might be alive? (And it’s always might be in her head, she doesn’t really allow herself to hope) Yeah, she’s having a Time about it all

Ooof, yeah, Percy would probably react poorly to the way Reyna is taking charge at camp—which is obviously just what she’s used to having to do, but she also handles a few things very similarly to how Annabeth would have, and he does not like it. Her being similar to Annabeth is probably actively a comfort to the campers who usually looked to Annabeth for guidance, and that’s super upsetting to him because it’s not the same!

I’m also very amused by the thought of Piper and Leo kind of beefing with Percy for a while because they’re annoyed he’s trying to start shit with Reyna when she hasn’t done anything wrong. Reyna herself doesn’t even mind that much because she also has a vague feeling that she doesn’t like Percy (due to him destroying Circe’s Island, which she doesn’t remember, but the bad vibes are still there). Anyway, I feel like they eventually sort this out by severely butting heads in combat training and coming out of it with a begrudging mutual respect lmao

Reyna wanted her memories back because not knowing terrified her, but the moment she gets them back she wishes she could go back to the day before, when things may have felt complicated, but not nearly as much as they do now. She’s been confused about her messy feelings for Piper for a while, but before knowing about the prophecy she was way more certain she could figure it out eventually, especially because Piper is super patient with her and doesn’t seem to mind her taking her time to figure things out. But suddenly she’s got memories of the Aphrodite prophecy and her unrequited crush on Jason and she’s pretty sure she’s never liked a girl before, so that’s several new layers of confusion to add to the pile. (Honestly, it might be good to send her and Nico to see Cupid together in this scenario. Maybe that finally helps her figure things out.)

And she likes Camp Half-Blood. So much. Which she feels awful about, because she’s got a prophecy linking her to a completely different home. Is she allowed to feel even semi-comfortable here? Is that a betrayal of New Rome? Is it confirmations of the fears her father had that led to the way he treated her and her sister?

Actually, speaking of the whole thing with her dad, I’m sure her learning what happened to Leo’s mom and all the ways thats still affecting him when she doesn’t have her memories would result in some… complicated feelings that she in no way understands.

Piper also has messy complicated feelings about the situation with Reyna because in her fake memories, falling in love with Reyna played a huge role in her realizing she was queer. So learning those memories are fake is really hard on her. Her feelings are still very, very real, though, and if nothing else it at least plays into her being very patient with Reyna, because she remembers—and she knows that part isn’t fake, even if the context was—how much of a mess it was for her to figure out her own sexuality.

Jason hates this job. He likes helping people. But he doesn’t like being in charge, and he doesn’t like that that’s what people always expect of him when they look at him. He actively joined the worst cohort and befriended the unpopular kids and he still couldn’t escape what his father’s legacy made him. But if the last few months have proven anything, it’s that he’s not cut out for this job. He can fake it for a while, sure, but he’s just stressed and miserable all the time. The only parts of this he liked was helping people and spending time with Reyna, but Reyna wasn’t there and he hasn't felt like he’s really been able to help anyone in months. He’d probably jump at the opportunity to join the quest and just get away from everything for a while, because he may be miserable as a praetor, but he’s good at the hero part of things. I’m thinking Jason probably takes Reyna’s part from the books, except he tries to deescalate the situation way sooner and then also dips way faster to help out, because at some point it clicks for him that maybe they messed up by assuming the storm or fire part of the prophecy is about Percy and Leo because there’s a decent chance the storm part might be him. Reyna and Nico take the Athena statue back to camp and it kills her not to be there for the final battle but maybe that’s part of her arc—going where she’s needed and realizing it’s okay to leave leadership to other people. She’s the one to build a bridge between camps, which started with her, but New Rome’s survival doesn’t fall entirely on her shoulders. She actively has to take the weight off and leave it to other people to save the world. And that terrifies her, but it’s also a hugely important lesson for her and makes it way easier for her to accept that she can find a home at both camps without it being a betrayal of her person or her beliefs or the prophecy thats haunted her her entire life.

Your Annabeth thoughts are making me weep, oh my god? All of that is so so excellent? Her questioning whether Percy would even like her back with her not remembering everything they went through is agonizing but makes so much sense because of how used she is to not being anyone’s priority. She can’t know she’s found that permanence she’s always looked for in him because everything about him just got ripped away from her, too. Nothing feels steady anymore, so she focuses on what she can control. And that’s the things she can fix at Camp Jupiter. She knows how to run a camp. She knows how to do quests. Hell, New Rome has so many buildings her little architect heart would probably love to take a closer look at and potentially find ways to improve, so that’s also super helpful for her to focus on.

The thing with her dad is heartbreaking. Because yeah, how would he know? Annabeth has been away for so many years, and almost her entire life still takes place away from him. But obviously she doesn’t remember running away at age seven. She doesn’t remember how strained their relationship is. She comes home without any of her memories, to a dad who can barely offer her any answers on things any normal parent should know. And she may not have her memories, but when she leaves feeling confused and hurt, she knows it isn’t the first time.

Thinking about a concept where Juno swaps Annabeth and Reyna instead.

Annabeth and Reyna are fine, because they’ve always been able to handle just about anything the gods threw at them. Piper accidentally has her gay awakening via fake memories of a relationship with Reyna and is really confused why her girlfriend is acting so weird. Reyna and Leo bicker non-stop because even without her memories Reyna knows what she’s doing and she’s very used to getting people to listen to her but Leo will not be serious for even one second.

Percy would start fist fighting the gods in the first week. Jason has never been more stressed in his life because he never even wanted to be praetor but it was manageable while he was doing it with Reyna and now he’s alone. What the hell is he supposed to do.

By the time Annabeth shows up at Camp Jupiter, Jason is so relieved someone knows what they’re doing that he immediately asks her to be praetor, now if she’ll excuse him he needs to go have an anxiety meltdown in a corner somewhere

[dobadoo]

˗ˏˋ ꒰ YANDERE WANDERER ꒱ ˎˊ˗ soft yan wanderer ꒰ UPDATE !꒱

ow oow..he love u too much !!

✧ warnings — fem !! reader, soft yanderer wanderer,, light mention of NSFW, slightly coercive attitude, Unhealthy relationships <3 . ✧ a/n — ..this character is so complicated..(that's why I love him lol) So there might be some discrepancy with canon. I translated from my native language to English, so there will be some mistakes.. tell me if you see any//

✧ How did he realize his feelings? How quickly did it happen?

You first crossed paths on the Street in Sumeru. Daydreaming, you accidentally bumped into the Wanderer. Automatically apologizing, you smiled slightly and walked on. You didn't see the face of the man who had the misfortune of crossing your path. But he remembered yours.

At another time, the Wanderer would have called out to the absent-minded passerby and expressed his displeasure at his inattention, but this time, for some reason, he didn't feel the desire to ruin someone's mood. Following his gaze as you disappeared around the corner, he was surprised to feel something strange, half-forgotten inside himself…

"No, I'm not going to get involved in this," - the former Number Six of the Fatui Harbingers shook his head decisively.

Yes, he decided to live like a human. But that doesn't mean he wants to go through the same pain as before. Perhaps the Wanderer would have forgotten this meeting over time… even the gods do not know the answer to this question. Or, on the contrary, they decided to remind him what it is like to love?..

The second time he saw you was at a doll-making workshop. You were not from Sumeru and decided to bring home such an interesting souvenir, and he just wanted to make a doll similar to the one he once had. The workshop lasted for several days. You did not even look in the Wanderer's direction, all the time thinking about something of your own, but he did not take his eyes off you. On the third day, the Wanderer began to get angry not only at himself, for making the same mistakes as he once did, becoming attached to a mortal man, but also at you, for not noticing him.

Although, unlike the other people he once loved, you did not give him anything, but for some reason your opinion of him seemed important to him. On the fourth day, the Wanderer could not stand such inattention to his person and began to cough loudly and demonstratively. You looked up at him in confusion:

Be healthy, - you said politely and again looked away from the young man. The Archons see that if the Wanderer were not a puppet, he would choke on this!.. On what?.. Even on the same air!..

For the first time, he saw that someone did not care about him so much. Especially someone he deigned to be interested in. The fifth day was the last day of the master class. Realizing that if he did not do anything now, it would never work out, the Wanderer approached and casually asked:

"Hmm… what is your name?" - You said your name.

"And yours?.."

"Wanderer."

"I see. Excuse me, I need to go." - You turned around to leave the place where the master class was being held. The young man who approached you, apparently to get acquainted, was very handsome in appearance: thick blue-black hair, indigo eyes, delicate features… it was hard to imagine a man as beautiful as Wanderer. But something about him repulsed you… perhaps his manner of speech?..

"Where are you going? hmh.I hope your majesty, you don't mind if I go with you..It wasn't a question."

"I don't need you." - you sighed, I looked at him questioningly.

"What, really?.. Just look at yourself. Thin arms, no weapon. Where are you going to stick your nose in?.."

"In any case, it's none of your business, and it's better to go alone than with a boor like you!.."

"Am I boor? I'm just telling the truth, and if someone doesn't like listening, that's their problem."

"You're right, of course, but if I don't like listening, no one can make me believe otherwise."

"I see."

Wanderer chuckled. His interest in you grew even stronger. The former "balladeer" didn't understand what it was about you that he liked so much, both the first time and now. The first time you didn't talk, so it wasn't the so-called "intelligence." Beauty?.. yes, you're quite nice, but he's seen many prettier ones. The human world is full of mysteries.

The old Scaramouche wouldn't have looked for answers to all these questions. Did he like you?.. great. If you don't want to follow him yourself, he'll kidnap you. He's the Harbinger, who has subordinates and a million ways to keep you locked up. But that's not the case now. It's not even that he's no longer a member of Fatui, it's just that he's become different. He decided that he wanted to absolve himself of all his sins, but how could he do that if he kidnapped someone, even if, one might say, out of scientific interest?.. he needs to think of something else. Maybe he would tell Nahida about it, or, if she was busy, the Traveler.

After listening attentively to Wanderer, the goddess of Wisdom gave him a book.

"All about etiquette: a complete set of rules for social and business communication,"

"Is she kidding? ahh"

He read the book and found out that it was customary to address strangers as "you." It turned out that it was not very nice to start an acquaintance with rudeness even with a simple person, and even more so if you liked him… but it couldn't be that you rejected him, Wanderer, just because he was a little abrupt!..

✧ How jealous is he? How will he deal with his rivals?

He really doesn't like it when you care about someone more than him. However, the smart Wanderer will never arrange a massacre just like that. Although, is it necessary his given inclinations?.. Yes, he can knock a person down so much that it seems better to hit him a couple of times… In Sumeru, they talk about you as a strange couple: a dreamer with thoughts as light as the wind, and an angry kitten, ready to sink his little teeth into the throat of anyone who dares to look at her.

However, Wanderer may seem like a harmless kitten only to a person who has never encountered him. And soon it will become clear to everyone that the "kitten" is not as weak as he seems. Wanderer sharp tongue will quickly do its job. Your admirers will not dare to approach you. At least in his presence.

If someone bothers you too much, Wanderer despite having decided to start a new life, will go to extremes. Oh no, he won't kill that person. He'll just gouge out their eyes. If this guy doesn't understand that it's not nice to look at other people's loved ones, he'll have to show him that. Well, at least this way he'll never make the same mistake again!

✧ Would he kidnap you?

The old Scara, as mentioned above, would kidnap you without a second thought. But now he knows he can't do that. Maybe if your relationship lasts long enough for him to feel he has the right to control you, he'll restrict you a little: make you quit your job and stay home, demand that you come home by nine o'clock and not talk to people he doesn't like.

But if you kindly remind him that you're not his thing, he'll have no choice but to roll his indigo eyes and accept that you're not going to do his bidding.

✧ What are his rules?

First of all, you must not love anyone but him, just as he loves no one but you. That's the most important thing. He also wants you to accompany him wherever he goes - that's the only way he can be sure that you won't cheat on him. He's generally very fanatical about you being faithful to him as a lover should be. Wanderer knows himself well: if he's betrayed again, he won't be able to return to atone for his sins.

✧ What does his behavior look like?

Everyone has a friend or acquaintance who likes to say nasty things, grumble, say that he will never help an idiot like you, and then help in a way that even the most polite and courteous people will not help. So. This friend is Wanderer

He can scold you a hundred times for allowing yourself to be deceived, but you will be sure that your offender will not get off with a light fright.

He can declare a thousand times that he doesn’t care about people, they have too many useless functions that only get in the way in life, but you will always find your favorite food at home. He can tell you a million times that you're a complete idiot, but if someone else says it… oh, man, are you completely tired of living?.. Wanderer believes that he is in a special position and has the right to tell you whatever he wants, but he will react extremely aggressively if someone else thinks the same.

✧ Affection?

As for showing affection… well, he…

Actually, it's touching. Yes, touching. It's not always nice, but touching. It can be a little rough, but it's not intentionally rough, he would NEVER hurt you. You hear me? Never.

Damn it. He'll pick you flowers in Gandharva while he's quietly cursing under his breath about how childish it is, he'll braid your hair or squeeze your hand roughly to make sure you're with him, next to him, and you won't go anywhere. That kind of connection is incredibly intimate, if you think about it. It's a connection on a very deep level, it's love. So everything he does, whether it's nice or not for you, is an expression of love.

He's always with you, even when you don't notice. In the Sumeru bazaar, in the rainforest, or somewhere in the academy, you always sneak a glimpse of that kasa hat.

✧ What kind of punishment does he use?

If you are too brazen and respond to his caustic remarks with aggression (in general, act like a brat), then he will ignore it for a long time, and believe me, he is very good at it. (but he still gave in after 5 minutes)

Oh.. So you are one of those very.. "sweet" lovers? then why don't you cuddle with him together, just you, him and your cozy bed! The wanderer, of course, was not born yesterday and has a full understanding of human.. Desires. No matter how much the Wanderer hates human sins, you remain his weakness. The Wanderer knows, and has even seen how people succumb to the embrace of lust, and if you are his sweet lover, why don't you do it together?

so that he (will make) you lie with him in the evening, in a cozy bed or in some secluded place in the forest of Avidya, and kiss you passionately, with love, until you knock and beat his back from lack of air

Oh.. So if you are one of those very "mean" lovers, oh you wretch! you deserve punishment.. So, you'll have to sleep next to him and kiss your puppet for a long time before going to bed… If you don't agree to that either, the Wanderer will decide to gently caress you a little from below.. And you won't be able to avoid that!!

✧ What happens if you get sick?

Wanderer will tell you a lot of things while you're sick. For example, that only an idiot could go out without a hat, knowing that it would rain, and you is quite sick and can easily catch something. And also that the human body is very weak in principle, so you shouldn't have gone anywhere at all, just like he said… but at the same time he will surround you with pillows, feed you with a spoon, buy you sweets and make you tea.

One day, when he will be adjusting the blanket at night, you will wake up and, in your sleep, say that such behavior makes him human…

✧ How much does he need your love?

Initially, Wanderer didn't want to experience feelings that usually hurt people, but when he admitted that he was in love, he realized that there was no point in being afraid anymore. Everything that could happen has already happened, and nothing can be done about it.

And since he loves you, it would be desirable for you to love him too. And if Wanderer can't open the door to your heart, he will try to achieve at least a tolerant attitude towards himself. However, this will never be enough for him. He wants his feelings to be reciprocated.

✧ Views on family

Family… such a forgotten and alien word for him. The wanderer used to have a family 500 years ago, but he doesn't want to remember it, and he won't dare tell you about it, he doesn't want to scare you off.. About children, girl, do you really think that a puppet can impregnate you? It's funny. But if you really get close, Wanderer will treat you like a family member. In order not to offend you, over time he will moderate his ardor and become less harsh in his judgments.

But if you don't need him, and you are simply forced to be near him… he will treat you not as a thing, no. If you put a thing, it stands there. And you, more like a pet. You tell him: don't climb there, and he climbs. You tell him: don't eat this, and he eats. You tell him: don't bother this person, and he bothers. Usually, of course, a pet is perceived as part of the family, but it is unknown whether Wanderer will put so highly someone whom he considers so inferior to himself.

✧ What kind of pet-names does he use?

Well…he doesn't like to use pet-names like "sweety pie" or "my bunny", etc. (only sarcastically, and rarely).. Even the puppet like him gets sick of it. But the Wanderer often uses poetic nicknames towards you. He can compare you to characters from books or heroes of famous paintings.

And you have a surprisingly large number of such "second names": each time he calls you differently, depending on the situation and your behavior. For example, if you are a night owl and don't like to sleep at night, he calls you "Selena" in honor of the moon goddess, if you prefer airy, light-colored clothes, he can compare you to an angel, and so on.

The Wanderer is very protective of you, because he considers you the only person who can accept him as he is. And, you can be sure, he will do everything to not lose you.. Not after what he went through..

"But you are not angry, are you, my Persephone?.."

@crimsoncandy04 @anantaru @hitomisuzuya @lavandulawrites @himasgod @neuvigroove @quimichi @rsventhesecondd @anemoswirlsmyheart @nil4everheartz @kujiba @genshingorlsrevengeance @shyentsfoundherink @lavandulawrites @ashyashylee @hitomisuzuya

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

On the discussions of leadership and leona finding fulfillment in the future, i’ve always found the times he’s stood out most in twst to be when he is mentoring someone. Subtly, never giving people answers but guiding them towards them, using language and examples they understand. We see it with ruggie, jack, jamil, all of savannaclaw and so many other characters.

which gets me thinking: what if leona becomes a teacher? he’d get the acknowledgment for his skills and ability he needs, but also be able to help improve sunset savanna by educating and equalizing the playing field for the next generation.

Ruggie’s dream got me thinking about it and now i can’t get it out of my head as a possible route to where he can get the things he ultimately needs to thrive.

Relevant posts: [ Does Leona need to be king to be happy? / Would Leona be a better king that Falena? / Catching up with him in book 7 ] [My thoughts on the book 7 part 11 Leona update is here!]

I agree that Leona tends to shine when he’s in a leadership or mentorship role to younger students! This occurs multiple times over, both in main stories (notably book 2, 3, 6, and 7), vignettes (his Camping Gear, Epel’s Union Jacket, etc.), and various voice lines (typically from younger students remarking on their admiration for him). He's actually really good at explaining things to others in a simplistic enough way and with realistic examples that slot neatly into their worldviews. I don't know that I would call it "subtle" though, there have definitely been times where Leona just outright tells others what to do or what's wrong with their way of thinking (mainly with Jamil in book 6, or ordering around his fellow magift/spelldrive team members). I think when you say "subtle", it's more like Leona has a way of leading others to acting in his favor, as he can occasionally have his own ulterior motives in imparting wisdom. (For example, he helps out the first years with mining for magestones so he can nap without being disturbed.)

Mmmm… I do think the idea of Leona as a teacher is interesting, but I don’t know if that would feasibly work. I think we as the players can appreciate, say, the NRC staff, but in reality teaching is often a thankless job where parents and/or the school board will blame you for students not performing. You also need to put in several (unpaid) hours of work outside of class grading, preparing lessons, going to meetings, etc. I don’t know that he would be satisfied with “grunt work” like that. I think he’d also have to go back to get his masters/teaching license, which means more studies 💀

I also think the scale of teaching is too small for Leona’s ideals. Yes, technically your lessons will have a continuous or long-term impact because your students might then graduate and go on to change the world thanks to your teachings. But, in my opinion, it better suits his grand ambitions to be the one establishing schools and then leaving others to run those institutions for him; he’d have a much larger impact (and more immediate results, which is what Leona is after) that way, similar to how it is portrayed in Ruggie’s dream. A single teacher, by comparison, can do little to change the system for the countless people who need it (for example, the starving children in the slums). Additionally, it’s easier for Leona to control his own projects as some higher authority, whereas it’s not do easy for him to control what students do once they leave his tutelage—and for Leona, bring in command is important (he had no vice dorm leader because of this).

I also have to wonder if teaching is really the right field for Leona to get into…? I think people often confuse “being good at something” with “liking something”. This is also true of many fandom depictions of Leona; fans tend to claim he’s just “being tsundere” when he acts grumpy around his juniors other nephew Cheka and that he secretly harbors great love for kids. And while I do love me a wholesome take, I just don’t see that 💦 His official profile states his pet peeve is “dealing with kids”; why would objective information from an official profile be a lie? His annoyance seems pretty consistent and genuine when he is assigned some kind of babysitting-adjacent task, and he acts like he would rather not if given the choice but has to anyway in order to avoid graver consequences for himself, a dorm leader. I don’t think he would want to intentionally sign up for a job that means he has to put up with kids on a daily basis—and especially rebellious teenagers that won’t necessarily do what he tells them to.

I guess the comparison you could make here is Crewel, who also seemed to be wild in his youth and also seems to dislike children and disobedience—yet somehow he changed careers from fashion designer to science professor. He had a lot in common with Leona, so I think it could be argued that Leona could still potentially go down the teacher path. If I recall correctly, Leona has also tutored Ruggie and helped him achieve okay grades in present day—so Leona has a track record with teaching. We don’t know for sure what could happen; a lot can change and the future’s unpredictable! But for now, I definitely still think Leona’s ambitions wouldn’t stop at just teaching classes; he’d want to do way more.

… Imagine the insanity of having a literal big-boobed PRINCE as your professor though 💀 I don’t know if I would be able to concentrate properly in that lecture…

[mythalism]

Watching a video of the "fight Solas" ending and I find myself really disliking the fact that Rook declares that the Veil must be tied to the life of an elven god. It is treated like a fitting punishment for Solas, and even in the redemption ending, Rook all but orders Solas to sacrifice himself to maintain the Veil (or the status quo). I also can't help but feel that Solas, the last of the elven gods, is being sacrificed to maintain the Veil that he, alone, is somehow expected to magically maintain, allowing everyone else to go on their merry way. The implication here is that the elves are losing the last of their history, or pantheon, and this is a GOOD thing, and now we can all move forward and live peacefully. Am I overthinking this? 'Cause if this was the intention it does sound kind of bad.

yeah. i do agree and i dont think you're overthinking. and even if you were, im about to overthink way harder so don't worry. forgive me for getting on my legal philosophy soapbox but thats my whole brand at this point so here we go: it is a very retributive view of punishment and desert (deserved-ness) that i morally disagree with and feels outdated in the political landscape of 2024 to me PERSONALLY!! the foundation of retributive justice is:

(1) that those who commit certain kinds of wrongful acts, paradigmatically serious crimes, morally deserve to suffer a proportionate punishment; (2) that it is intrinsically morally good—good without reference to any other goods that might arise—if some legitimate punisher gives them the punishment they deserve;

obviously this is how much of the western world conceives of punishment and western media is consequently saturated with narratives that espouse this. most of the time, restorative justice is seen as mutually exclusive with retributive justice, though there are some people who say they can be used in tandem. i disagree anyway.

i think solas's endings grapple with these ideas in a way that is... messy. its confusing because we dont actually know if he is truly imprisoned, in the sense that he cannot leave. we know he is in A prison, though its unclear whether its the new regret prison that rook was in, or the black city (epler refused to clarify this during the AMA because of "spoilers", while trick said the implication is he is "going back to the prison", the epilogue slides imply he is in the black/golden city, as does his quest to heal the blight which only exists in the black city). we also do not know what capacity he has to leave. with lavellan or after being "redeemed" by willingly binding himself to the veil, he does not have the lyrium dagger but he does have the capacity to free himself from his regrets (if hes in the regret prison) or heal the blight (if he's in the black city), exemplified by his golden epilogue slides. if he is tricked or fought, he is not in a mental space to overcome his regrets and does not swear to atone by healing the blight, but he does have the lyrium dagger with him, so we can assume he can just use it to leave, the way we literally see him do earlier in the game lol. whatever message they are trying to send with his "punishment", i think it is muddied by the vagueness of what actually happens to him in the end and where he goes.

if the message truly is that he "deserves" to be imprisoned in the fade for his long list of crimes, i find that lazy and nonsensical. first of all, he loves the fade and has been dying to return to it so thats not really a gotcha, but more importantly, which crime warrants this punishment? and is his punishment proportional? this is impossible to answer because we do not know what the punishment truly is. we also dont really even know what crime he's being imprisoned for. taking down the veil? he didnt actually get to do that. are we punishing him for something he didn't do yet? is it for killing varric? sure, i guess that one works. its the strongest of the options we have, but the game is also pretty clear that its not what varric would want. what about all of the other people he has killed? the spirits he sacrifced in that siege on elgar'nans temple? the mages who summoned and corrupted wisdom which he incinerates alive? flemythal and felassan? do they deserve retribution via solas's imprisonment? would they want that? would they find it just and satisfying? the game does not ask these questions. so we dont know. does he deserve to be imprisoned for for what he did to the titans? ok, maybe. this is stronger than the others at least. but in the trick/fight endings he doesnt vow to heal the blight, so what does his imprisonment do for the dwarves and the titans spirits? this is what i mean when i say his imprisonment is retributive, but it is not even thoroughly retributive. it does not think deeply about what solas deserves for his crimes and the proportionality of such a punishment, but it is clear that we are supposed to that he deserves to be in prison, it is morally good that he is receiving "justice", and rook is a hero for imprisoning him. his punishment is presented as a moral good because he deserves it. unfortunately for veilguard, i dont think i would ever be convinced by this message in any narrative anywhere, even if it was better written, because this is not a moral philosophy that i subscribe to.

his redemption endings feel so much better and more satisfying because his vow to use his immortality and knowledge to heal the blight that he created is restorative and has a direct correlation to his crime of creating the blight by tranquilizing the titans in the first place. his imprisonment achieves nothing outside of removing him as a "threat", which is ruined by the fact that he has the dagger and can just leave lol. devoting the next significant portion of his life to alleviating the titans suffering is not just reparative remedy that directly affects the people and creatures he has harmed, it also actively makes the world of thedas a better place. to be clear, im not saying solas is innocent. he is guilty. of a lot of things. he bears responsibility for a lot of things. he would qualify as a war criminal. but i do not believe in retributive justice. veilguard having solas kill varric because trespasser made me sympathize with him "too much" is not going to make me believe in retributive justice. for the non-atonement imprisonment endings to feel satisfying you have to subscribe to this ideology of moral desert and punishment and a lot of people do. the entire american carceral system is founded on it. so is christianity. and bioware clearly subscribes to it as well. you might disagree with me and subscribe to it yourself. thats fine. but i believe it has caused a lot of harm to our world and continues to do so. seeing it manifested in media is always disappointing to me.

regardless of the technicalities of his imprisonment, his binding to the veil is the one thing that happens regardless of his ending, and i agree that it is icky for similar reasons. the veil is his responsibility, as is the blight which he will be keeping contained with his life, so i guess you can interpret it as proportional? but again, what crime is he paying for with binding his life to the veil? is he not paying for a crime at all? is binding his life to the veil even part of his punishment? or is it just something he has to do because he's the only person alive that can do it? if that is the case, that it has to be him because he is the only proper sacrifice, and not that he deserves it, then what does it say about rook that they sacrifice someone undeserving? if he is deserving, why exactly? if he wasn't the only elven god left alive, would he still be deserving of such a fate? if the answer is no, then he does not deserve to be bound. what gives rook the right to make this call? based on the convo they have before the ending where they plan to bind him to the veil, its not clear if rook binds him because they think he deserves to be bound to one of his greatest regrets, or because he's quite literally the only option. either way, i think there is an argument for it being cruel, and unearned coming from someone like rook, who really has barely been a victim of solas's sins outside of a 2 week time-out. literally harding binding him would've been far more satisfying. or imagine if fragment mythal went rogue and did it, or morrigythal did. mythal would not be justified either but at least it would be fucking banger and evil and interesting of her. anyway.

i think your point about what it means for the elves to lose their final living god, outside of mythal who is [redacted] ? is a fantastic point. through solas's binding, they also lose the veil-less future he represented that was promised to be a better world for them. would it really have been? probably not. solas clearly thinks so. but we will never know lol. the failure of the story to grapple with the dissolution of the elves entire belief system is one of its most egregious ones, and i think this is a symptom of it. dragon age's elven lore got itself into a weird spot by veilguard and i think they just abandoned it rather than attempting to write themselves out of it. i love stories that grapple with the average person's culpability as complacent in imperialism. this is part of why fullmetal alchemist is my fav story of all time and you should watch it (fullmetal alchemist:brotherhood on hulu please im begging. but you have to watch the "brotherhood" one not the other one. its complicated dont ask). veilguard seemed to want to do something like this, but they got themselves into weird spot with the elves because their evil, slavery-based empire is a thing of the distant past, and in the present they are systemically oppressed and have no social or political power.

usually in these sorts of stories, someone currently living in an imperialist society who is directly benefiting from that imperialism is confronted with their complacency and asked to rise to the occasion of standing up for what is right, despite their material best interest. they often sacrifice their privilege as a benefactor of imperialism in the present to attempt to make up for the evils that system has inflicted on others. fmab does a wonderful job of this. there is at once both an acknowledgement that no, this is not literally YOUR FAULT, you did not order a genocide or press the nuke button, but you have benefited from it and/or participated every day of your life, whether that is through the stolen land you live on, the fact that you have never seen war in your home country, the way you can buy whatever fruit you want at the grocery store any time of year, or the way your tax dollars fund the bombs being dropped on children thousands of miles away, and you do have a moral obligation to do whatever you can to fight back. i believe this is a very important lesson for the average american (and canadian since we are talking about bioware), and anyone that lives in an imperialist country, that a lot of people have not yet learned ... lol.

this feels along the lines of what veilguard was going for (or maybe they werent and this was accidental, idk which is worse), but it fails because the elves are not currently benefiting from their past empire, like at all. actually, they live in squalor and at risk of constant violence from human empires. they have experienced centuries of genocide, violence and slavery at this point in modern thedas. the imperialistic success of the elvhen empire has absolutely no bearing on their current lives, it provides them with no privilege, and it gives them no culpability in its evils. they are thousands of years removed from it. and its not like "oh the british empire was dissolved 50 years ago so imperialism is over" no. because britain's wealth and power are a direct result of that imperialism, thus they do still benefit from it presently, even if the "official empire" is dissolved. this is true for most empires. but with the elves of thedas, they have none of the power or privilege that the elvhen empire accrued through its evils. if anything, it is tevinter that benefits most from the lost elven empire considering how much of their society is founded on its technology, and the fact that. you know. they are currently, modernly, presently an empire based on slavery. OF ELVES. so why, then, does veilguard present the elves as culpable? why does the angry titan harding creature say they are "thriving" at the titans expense? why does bellara take personal responsibility for the evils that elgar'nan and ghilan'nain commit when she had nothing to do with them? the messaging with this is so strange. it would make sense if elves were still the ruling class but... they're not. the only remnants of the empire that they have access to is their own bodies... which are systemically, bought, sold, and mutilated. though the game does erase much of the racism they face in what i can only assume was an attempt to make this work.

the combo of this + solas's trick/fight endings for what is fundamentally, according to this game itself, a desire for a better world for elves and spirits, no matter if it is misled or his methods are violent, is a depressing, bleak message that i find to be irresponsible to be sending in 2024 and considering the real world groups of people that elves are based on, most notably of the dalish as indigenous north americans. veilguard sees elves lose not just their understanding of their past, dissolving their entire worldview, their conception of their cultural identity, and their relationship to their religion, all without sufficient (or any) exploration of how devastating such a process would be, but by imprisoning solas, erasing his followers and supporters from existence, and binding him to the veil, it also robs them of the possibility of a more just future... while asking you to cheer because he deserved it. dont try to make the world a better place unless you do it the right way. work with the world as it is. your attachment to the past (when you werent being genocided regularly) is a disease. you deserve to go to jail because you tried to change the world in a way that that was too disruptive. get over it! move on! rot in jail!

[redwinewhiteroses]

Wintertime Mystery Messages

Intuitive & Oracle messages meant to find you

This reading is a wonderful and exciting collab with @marsprincess889

Her messages are intuitive and mine are a combination of oracle card messages and intuition. You should definitely check out her reading for more clarity and guidance. I'm excited to share what we've been working on together.

I hope yall find this useful 🤍

As always choose the image that calls to you the most. Feedback is highly appreciated. Please let us know your thoughts about this 🤍

Group 1

@marsprincess889 asked me to say this here: she thinks you guys need a lot of gentleness and care, that you're tired on a soul level. She definitely resonated to this group and picked up on the energies effortlessly, and overall, you should check out what she has to say too.

I'm getting the message to not take things personally. If you felt like you didn't have clarity in a close relationship, and you didn't feel like you understand this person or you think they didn't try to understand you, there's a message here to look at this relationship from a different perspective. See the bird's eye view here because both parties have a perspective of their own and they see, act and behave in the way that is personal to them and it has nothing got to do with you. I sense a bit of misunderstanding or confusion and even a clash of opinions.

There's also this message that you might not be seeing things as they actually are. Your perspective of this situation is more than likely influenced by your projection and thoughts. Might not be the case with everyone who is reading this.

This could be about a relationship, life situation or just your thoughts in general. You might be missing out on certain things since you are only considering your feelings and perspective, you don't try to give a chance to others to share their perspective with you. However if you try to see things in a different way, and maybe not be so stubborn times, and maybe loosen a bit you might explore and find something beautiful and precious.

And for some of you, there can be hurt feelings over something someone said that you felt like completely invalidated your feelings and made you feel unheard or unappreciated. This could be the case, but it is also likely they meant one thing but you took it personally and you didn't really see their point of view. Their words might have affected you but the message here is to react slowly and to develop an understanding of the situation and ultimately find peace through a better perspective. You have the power to see the light from shifting your focus a little.

Also this could be about observing your surrounding and to see things in a new light. You are asked to be curious and to explore be it people's varied ideas, opinions, culture, habits, traits or interactions. To constantly see things in a different way intently, if your current perspective is only spiralling you down negativity or unhelpful behaviour. It's good to be open to new ways.

Also I think all this exploring to do and trying to see things in different light is to help you find authenticity in yourself. There's this feeling that you might have been carried away by people's opinions about you. And somewhere along the way you let people's perception get in the way and let it change your truth. It's like you started believing what they said you were to be true, for better or for worse. And now you are asked to see things from afar and understand who you really are and who they think you are and differentiate between them. Loosing yourself over people's words comes to mind.

There's this gentle message and I think there's a lot of love and acceptance here and it's asking you to be comfortable in your own skin. To find a place where you fit and to be truly comfortable there. To find a sense of belonging within you. Let your voice be the kindest you hear everyday. Know who you really are and to find peace within yourself. You are safe here and you are protected and you are seeing things just the way they are and you are not being influenced by someone else's opinion of you.

All in all, the message here is to be so rooted in yourself and your authenticity and to see things clearly in your own way and not to be influenced by others but also to not be rigid or prideful in doing things your way. Do not disregard other’s perspective but be open and at the same time stay true to yourself.

I also think you are feeling at home and in a way approaching a period of radical acceptance of yourself, finding the true 'you' and being yourself unapologetically.

Other confirmation messages/keywords : shifting, home, love and fights, acceptance and belonging, healing journey, coming back home, kaleidoscope, glasses, telescope, easter eggs, little prince, fox spirit, fox eyes, moon, illusion, you are not who you are, starry sky, amulet/pendant, shells/conches, 'Up' movie, lavender, purple flowers, on cloud nine, light shining on things, higher up, finally free, looking at the sky together, comets, counting stars, Astronomy, boy scout/girl scout, one red rose, breakfast at home, childhood best friend, friendships, holding hands, waiting for someone, yearning for the place called home

Channelled song : Astronomy by Conan Gray

More messages :

Do not get lost in others' words

Seeing through the eyes of your soul

Different people, different ways they see and act

Internalising pain and agony for no reason

Hate comments but pay no heed

Shifting perspective

Seeing things clearly

Home is where I find peace, let that home be me

Good fortune is coming my way

Making peace with the past

Check out her reading here. She believes that she resonates so much with this group in a highly personal way. So her intuitive messages will bring you clarity and might be of great use to you.

Group 2

I felt like I resonated closely with this group than the others just like @marsprincess889 did with group 1. Although I had a easier time getting intuitive messages for this group, her intuitive messages are highly useful as well. So make sure to read what she has to say 🤍

I feel loneliness from this group as if you were let down by someone. There's a yearning for comfort and looking for it everywhere you can possibly think of.

This is a specific message for a few of you. Unrequited love or feeling abandoned due to feelings not being reciprocated. It's also as if your life is not going the way you'd like because this person/someone is not around. You feel like your plans are destroyed because of their absence. Trying to get to someone or someplace is also coming through strongly. Feeling like a fool because of someone. Idk most of the messages revolve around the absence of someone. Long distance relationship or significant physical distance for some reason is also possible. Being stationed abroad and following someone wherever they go.

Late twenties and early thirties seem to be prominent ages for this group.

There's this energy of being too serious as if you know you could loosen up a bit but no, you are intentionally holding back happiness. Mostly because you feel like you are helpless. It feels like you are self-sabotaging your own happiness and fulfillment. And by doing that you feel like happiness is something that could never belong to you, but honestly it's so far from the truth.

And it also looks like you are questioning something or everything to try to find an answer and you feel like you can't see or understand why something is happening the way it is.

Whatever this situation might be, it's demanding a lot of energy and slowly draining your happiness.

There's this message to not take yourself or any situation right now too seriously. Have fun and be playful and you'll see things aligning perfectly for you once you let go of control a bit and embrace hope that it will all work out for the better.

We don't always know the 'why' behind things. Why are we like this? Why do we do what we do? Why does it happen that way? All these questions might seem necessary and knowing the answers to them might be comforting but let me tell you, the answers do not define us. If all this questioning and interrogating yourself is only leading you to be unhappy, it's not worth it. What you are trying to find is important but your 'self', your happiness and your peace is way more important. I see you being way too focussed on yourself in an almost unhealthy self-conscious way. It feels like you are stuck in your own bubble all the time and you are actually restricting yourself due to this.

The message here is to let happiness into your life....once again. Cultivate self-love and wonder and make your mind, body and soul a sacred place where you feel loved and accepted.

If you are feeling stuck, you should always go to someone you trust for advice. That might help a lot. Someone might be able to help with your circumstances, someone might have the answer you are looking for. Don't think too hard or stress yourself, take a step back, try to cheer up and ask for help when you feel comfortable doing that.

There's a lot of happiness and abundance waiting for you and it will arrive at a time you least expect it. All that you are is a treasure🤍 and you should see that. There's so much value you bring in to the world. Positive thinking is what you need right now, it might be the key. Being abundantly positive will set you free from the burdens you carry and help you discover more and more good things to cherish.

Other confirmation messages/keywords : overthinking, low self-esteem, anti-hero, my worst enemy, peace, parent, financial security, Masters and PhD, exotic, ethnic, roots, an important festival/celebration, opportunities going down, question marks, that one episode from ATLA with the lion turtle, wisdom(ancient wisdom), discovering something, hermit, guiding the way for others, one's suffering and mental agony, reading books, lost at sea, star gazing, deeply loyal, tiny person, birthday month, amulet, family ties/bonds, capricorn, addictions, blocked vision

Channelled songs :

Talking to the moon by Bruno Mars

Willow by Taylor Swift

Under your scars by Godsmack

More messages :

Locked heart

New sun is rising

Too much self-awareness is a bad thing

Keep stuff locked away

I could do better than what I'm already doing

Reach full potential of something

Finding my way

Wish you were here

Endless questions/Hyperactive logical mind?

You are my happiness, my salvation

Battling something

Hyper focussed on something

Take my heart, don't break it

Check out her reading here. Her messages are highly intuitive and will bring more clarity to you.

Group 3

There is a message of nourishment, desiring nourishment and also a message of delving deep into your authenticity. You are approaching a period of time where you can experience profound nourishment that comes from within; from your core; from your most authentic self. You are a magnet for abundance and love and this nourishment will find you through tangible things and through more subtle ways from the people you love.

This is going to be a season where you are going to be in connection. Connection of all sorts. A lot of nourishment really, a sense of belonging and feeling safe, comfortable and being treasured by loved ones. I'm gonna quote from the guidebook "Sweet moments of understanding and love among friends and family are all here for you to savor now". Simply put, you are given the gift of connection that will nurture your mind, body and soul in a powerful way.

And there's this reminder to mindfully remain in the present moment and to be grateful when surrounded by this beautiful love. There might be a tendency for you to work hard/workaholic tendencies or to worry too much of how your plans will go, but what you should really be doing is to be present and to let things flow. There's a lot of blessings in the here and now and you will notice them if you look around.

There is a reminder that there is only one authentic 'you'. You are irreplaceable and when you are in alignment with your truth, you will find direction that leads you to prosperity and purpose. You are following your path to fulfillment and it's important to be in the present moment. And with every choice you make right now, you have the potential to embrace your destiny and in return to experience the taste of all the good things that's meant for you, and you only.

There's a heavy emphasis on your potential to create miracles in your life right now. It's almost as if you are at a transitory period in your life where there is extreme potential for you to lead your life successfully. You might be working on something that means a lot to you.

Everything is being taken care of and there's this gentle reminder to not worry about the past or the future, because this moment right now is precious.

Also I think you've been working on something really important, and you might be feeling some anxiety and tension over that. If so, there's this reassurance to just breathe and let nature take its course. Your hard work will definitely be rewarded.

Be present, be mindful, hold your truth close to your heart and be open to being nurtured and know that you are loved.

And for some of you, if you think you won't be accepted by someone or your love will be wasted and you won't find the comfort you are looking for, mainly due to your past, please don't worry. The people you care about return your sentiment. They love you and care for you deeply.

Other confirmation messages/keywords : easter, rainbows, sky, starry night, Vincent Van Gogh, elephant, chasing sunsets, girl child, angels, wings, ballet, rowdy, rain in the desert, looking out the window, miracles, green & blue, maybe, daisies, butterflies, feeling at peace, masquerade ball, prom, let me fly, humpty dumpty and puss in boots, roadblocks, picnics, basking in the sunlight/moonlight, lover lover?, Icarus, unlimited potential, family, love and care, ace of cups, grandparents' house, archangels, angel figurines, silver hair Targaryen lol, Jack frost

Channelled song : Reflections by The Neighbourhood

More messages :

Seeking love and acceptance from loved ones

High dreams and manifestation

We are family

Putting in the work

Could have, should have

Overflowing love

Peace be with you

Dry barren lands being green again/Creative powers

Everything is going to be alright

In the bleak midwinter

Nourishment of the soul

That's all I have for you. I hope you check out her reading here for more intuitive messages.

Group 4

I got tarot cards+oracle cards for you(Don't tell the other groups!) Mainly because the messages changed a lot and I was confused as to what was right.

I think this group is very dynamic and fast moving. As if you don't stay still for too long, you just change all the time and don't take roots anywhere. Or you are completely averse to change. There's no in between, either holding too much or all over the place, moving to the next thing and the next. Not bound to any place or an idea. Constantly shifting as if you are in a rush to be somewhere else. I get heavy air or water energy. Even fire. A lot of fire lol. Aries, Leo, Sagittarius and Cancer is prominent. And taurus, Virgo, Capricorn and even Gemini.

You could be influenced by others and the outside world too.

There's also feminine energy here, very adaptable and nurturing, going with the flow of things, very receptive to change and allowing things to happen. Maybe you are asked to be that if you are the total opposite of what I'm describing here. There is also control issues here as if you flow so freely with the intention of holding onto something. Shifting fast just to have better odds at possessing control.

There's two different messages I'm getting. One involving yourself and another about a romantic relationship.

A significant soulmate connection with a friend or romantic partner or even a pet is bringing a lot of transformation in your life. You are evolving in their company and changing in ways that you didn't think was possible. They are helping your character development so to say. You might feel a strong pull towards their energy, for most of you it's yin energy. They might influence you to be more in tune with your feminine nature or you are dealing with a female who impacts you in a significant way. There's both yin and yang energy here. Something about duality and the blending of energies. Also a soul union, a partnership between compatible energies is present. Take what resonates.

You are being asked to let go of control and to be receptive to change and await what is coming to you. Consciously allow things to flow gracefully and be rooted in the faith that everything will unfold in the perfect way. Do not fret or fear and don't try to control. This could be about a relationship, you are trying to control because of fear or worry of what will be of it ultimately. I think you like predictability and having a solid ground underneath you at all times.

It's like you are holding on to something that feels safe, but also feel this need to let go and not cling onto it, as you know deep down it will bring you much more personal power.

You think letting go will bring you pain especially if you've been hurt in the past, so you are holding on even if it's physically or emotionally challenging because this is what you are used to. But it's far from the truth. You have a lot of power and strength, if you were to let go, you will definitely evolve to be a stronger version of yourself and no, you will certainly not lose yourself. Whatever this is about, you are approaching significant personal growth and character development. Finding your true power beyond just having control. It is understanding that power is more than just control but it is about allowing things to just be. Knowing your will be fine either way. Give up your tight grasp and breathe deeply.

TW : SA mentioned (Please skip this portion if you feel like doing so)

Other confirmation messages/keywords : clenching fists, possessive, sexual trauma, penguins, cold, feeling numb, freezing, hold me, need a hug, warm blanket, pink veil, a chalice or a bowl, seeing your face in the mirror or water, bleak, smoking, run a bath with rose petals, a prince being a king, a king being an emperor, city, suburbs, giving up control but not yet, fifty shades movies duh, feet on the ground, battled and bruised, torture, deep seated past issues, liberation, finding direction, movement and progress, serendipity, dominant male, control issues, divine masculine, divine feminine, parenting struggles, prayer, asking for strength from the divine, wanting to have more control, tired, energy draining situation, Mark my words??, blessing and a curse, forbidden love

Channelled songs :

Cinnamon Girl by Lana Del Rey

Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood

Serendipity by Park Jimin (lyrics might be very significant)

** Lyrics of all three songs might be highly personal to you in some way or the other **

More messages :

Love so powerful that you will never be the same

Break you open so you can be who you were always meant to be

I have/should have the world in my hands

Be the 'shaped' and not the 'shaper'

Being balanced on all four? / Stability

Fear of getting hurt

Till death do us part

Alchemise energy/earth to fire

Letting go

Flow like a river

Trying to change the ending

Finding something better once you let go

A test of faith

With love comes pain

Preparing for the worst case scenario

What will be?

Tap in to your strength, see a glimpse of it

Healing is needed

Past wounds preventing growth and holding you back from your full potential

"Now it's like snow at the beach, Weird but fuckin' beautiful"

Hope this reading resonated with you and definitely check out her reading for more intuitive messages.

Dividers by : @finnegancosmos @enchanthings-a @anitalenia @enchanthings

Images from Pinterest. Credit goes to the rightful owners.

[riinniies]

ITOSHI RIN X FEM! READER

Plot : soulmate AU, red strings of fate.

Fluff! After writing yandere, for some reason I want to write things that make me calm and warm :), Tsundere! rin (he's too shy to be affectionate later), calm Reader, Strangers to lover (i loved this troupe idk why), rin is so cuteee i love him <33

Words count : 2123

Hope you guys like it!

PART TWOO !!

BONUS CHAPP ! !

My writings

Rin didn’t know that at the age of 18, he would meet his soulmate. It might seem early for some people, as most tend to meet their soulmate between their twenties and thirties.

But unfortunately, why did Rin have to meet his now? When he still had to focus on his career, which was on the rise. He shouldn’t have come here. He shouldn’t have accepted Bachira’s invitation to join the alumni of Blue Lock for a meet-up.

He should have turned it down like usual.

---

• POV switches to (name)

You didn’t expect that the red string tied to your pinky would extend at a moment like this.

You were on a holiday with your family, intentionally separating yourself from them because you didn’t feel completely comfortable. Your father was with his new family: your stepmother and half-sister. They weren’t bad people, but you could sense the awkwardness in their gaze whenever you tried to join them.

So, you found a bench in the park to sit alone and sketch the scenery in front of you, a tulip garden in full bloom with vibrant colors. Fortunately, you had brought along enough art supplies.

Looking at your finished sketch, you smiled. It didn’t take long—about 30 to 60 minutes. However, your butt was sore from sitting for too long, so you stood up, hugging your A5 sketchbook with your right hand. You clutched the book to your chest; it was your companion, a place where you poured your frustrations, sadness, disappointments, joy, and all other emotions.

As you started to leave the bench, you suddenly felt something strange in your pinky finger—like a subtle tug. You furrowed your brow and looked down, noticing the red string that had been still until now, slowly moving, as if pointing in a certain direction.

You swallowed hard. This string had always been there since you were little, but you never really thought much of it. The concept of a “soulmate” was something you heard since you were a little kid, but you never took it seriously. You always think : What if the person at the end of this string wasn’t who you hoped for? What if they didn’t want you?

But the curiosity was too strong.

Your steps slowly followed the direction of the string, the pull growing stronger with every step. Eventually, you found yourself at a small field near the park.

There, a group of young men was hanging out, laughing together. One of them caught your attention. Not because of his face—although he was very handsome—but because the red string stopped right at him.

You held your breath.

He turned as if noticing something. His eyes—sharp but calm—met yours. His expression shifted from neutral to something hard to describe.

He stood frozen and then walked towards you, leaving his friends who were busy chatting, some of them raised their eyebrows and turned to Rin with confused looks and widened their eyes when they saw he approached you.

He stood just a few steps in front of you, staring at you and then his gaze dropped slowly to your little finger, He recognized the string, knew what it meant. But all he felt was confusion and frustration. Why now?

“Is this… a joke?” Rin muttered softly, almost inaudibly.

Meanwhile, you, didn’t know what to say. One thing crossed your mind: "Is he my soulmate?"

---

The atmosphere felt awkward. One of the unique-haired men, later introduced as Bachira, glanced between you and Rin with a mischievous smile.

“Rin, is that your soulmate?” Bachira teased in a playful tone, only making Rin more irritated.

“Shut up,” Rin responded shortly, his voice low. His eyes remained fixed on you, though he tried to hide his confusion.

You wanted to run, but your body wouldn’t move. The string made everything feel too real—too real.

“Uh… hello,” you finally said, your voice almost trembling.

Rin let out a deep sigh. “You know what this means, right?” he asked, his tone flat but serious.

You nodded slightly. Of course, you knew. The red string connected two people who were destined to be together. But… was destiny really that important?

Rin’s gaze seemed complex. There was something inside him trying to resist, but he knew, just like you, that running from this string was impossible.

Rin exhaled again. He seemed like he wanted to say something, but instead, he took a step closer. You could feel the soft pull in your pinky every time he moved.

“You…” Rin stopped, his voice hesitant. He looked away, clearly uncomfortable with the situation. “Do you know when this string started moving?”

You gripped your sketchbook tighter, trying to calm yourself. “Just now… when I was in the park,” you answered softly.

Rin nodded slightly, his eyes briefly shifting to the ground before lifting his face again. “I’m Rin Itoshi,” he said finally, introducing himself in a stiff manner.

“You?”

His voice sounded formal, as though he was forcing himself. You introduced yourself, a little nervous.

“So… what should we do now?” you asked without thinking.

Rin stared at you in silence. Honestly, he didn’t know either. His life was filled with training schedules, matches, and his ambition to be the best in the world of soccer. Relationships—especially something like a soulmate—were never part of his plan.

“I don’t have time for things like this,” he said eventually, his tone cold. “I hope you can understand.”

Your chest tightened hearing his words. “Oh…” That was the only response you could give.

Before you could take another step back, Bachira suddenly interrupted with a wide grin. “Hey, hey, don’t be so cold, Rin! Isn’t a soulmate supposed to be something special? Maybe this is a good chance for you to learn to relax!”

Rin shot Bachira a sharp look. “I’m serious.”

But Bachira only chuckled and turned to you. “Don’t worry, he’s like this. Tough on the outside, but... well, you know.”

You could only smile faintly, unsure of how to respond. This situation felt too strange.

Somehow you feel your feelings are getting better because of bachira, should you say thanks or something?

Rin sighed again, looking more frustrated. “Listen,” he said, looking at you with an intense gaze. “I don’t know how this is going to go. But, I can’t promise anything.”

You nodded slightly. “I'm not expecting anything,” you said honestly. You raised your little finger and then sighed. "I just want to understand... this."

Rin fell silent for a moment, then shifted his gaze. “Alright,” he muttered quietly. “Let’s just see how it goes.”

However, deep in his heart, Rin knew that this red string wasn’t something that could be easily ignored. Even if he tried, the subtle tug would always remind him that you were a part of his fate.

After that awkward conversation, Rin turned and walked back toward his group, leaving you standing frozen. Your pinky still felt strange, like an invisible connection that kept growing stronger, even as the distance between you widened.

Bachira, who had been observing the situation with great interest, smiled mischievously and patted Rin on the shoulder. “You’re too serious, Rin. She’s your soulmate. At least try to be nice.”

Rin glared at Bachira but said nothing. In his mind, conflicting thoughts clashed. He knew what the red string meant and understood the consequences of this bond. But was he truly ready to accept someone into his life? Especially when he was at the peak of his career?

Meanwhile, you decided not to force the situation. After taking a deep breath, you turned and returned to the garden where your family was. Your steps felt heavy, as if something was left behind.

---

• That night

You sat on the balcony of your hotel room, staring at the starry night sky. The red string on your finger seemed brighter under the moonlight. You twirled it slowly, feeling confused and a bit sad.

“Why now?” you murmured softly.

Even though you didn’t know much about Rin, his cold gaze and words from earlier in the day left a lasting impression. You didn’t blame him. Who could accept the fact that their life was suddenly tied to someone they had just met?

Suddenly, your phone buzzed. A message from your father came in.

“Tomorrow we’ll head to the beach. Don’t stay up too late, okay?”

You sighed deeply. This holiday was supposed to be a time to relax, but all it brought was a sense of unease.

---

• Elsewhere

Rin sat in his hotel room, looking at his pinky. The red string pulsed softly, as if reminding him that you were at the other end.

The beautiful—wait—the girl who became or rather who was his soulmate, He couldn't stop thinking about what had happened earlier that day.

“Why now?” he muttered with the same tone as yours.

Bachira, who was staying in the room next door, suddenly knocked on the door and entered without permission. “Yo, Rin! Are you still thinking about your soulmate?”

“Get out,” Rin replied flatly, but Bachira didn’t care.

“You know, fate can’t be avoided. If I were you, I’d try to get to know her. Who knows, she might be the one who makes you happier.”

Rin scoffed. “I don’t need happiness. I just need to focus.”

Bachira laughed. “Oh, Rin... we’ll see who wins. You or fate.”

Rin chose not to respond. But deep down, he knew Bachira might be right. Fate wasn’t something that could easily be avoided, and every time he thought about your face, he felt something strange—a mix of curiosity and fear.

Maybe, he wouldn’t be able to run from this.

---

• The next morning

You woke up earlier than planned. The fresh morning air came through the hotel window, but the feeling in your chest was tight. Every time you tried to forget what happened yesterday, the red string reminded you. It seemed to glow brighter today, as if guiding you, calling you.

After breakfast with your family, you decided to take a walk alone. They didn’t mind, and even your father seemed pleased that you were enjoying some time to yourself. You felt a little relieved to be free, even if just for a moment, from the awkward and uncertain feelings that had taken over.

However, as your steps led you toward the beach, your pinky once again felt a pull. You looked around. Nothing seemed different, but the sensation grew stronger. You knew that Rin was nearby.

In the distance, you saw him—Rin, standing by the edge of the beach, as if looking for something in the sea. It felt like time stopped for a moment. The red string tugged harder, almost as if connecting you directly.

Without realizing it, you started walking toward him. Every step felt heavier than usual, and in your heart, there was a growing anxiety. Were you ready? Was Rin ready?

When you got close enough, Rin turned, and his eyes met yours. His gaze was different from before. There was weariness in his eyes, and perhaps, a little confusion. But there was also a warmth, faint but noticeable.

“You?” Rin asked in a softer tone than usual.

You nodded, not knowing what to say. It felt like time slowed down when you were near him.

“I can’t ignore this, can I?” Rin continued, his voice heavy with a hint of frustration. “The string... I think I’m starting to understand. But this... it’s too fast.”

You were a bit surprised, even though yesterday he looked at you annoyed and said a lot of unpleasant things, maybe what Bachira said was right.

'he's tough outside... but, you know.'

You could only smile faintly, even though your heart was pounding. “I don’t know what to do either, but... we can try to understand each other.”

Rin sighed deeply, as if releasing some of the tension inside him. “I can't promise anything. But, maybe we can start from here.” Rin stared at your eyes.

You felt a little weight lift off Rin’s shoulders, even though he still seemed hesitant. At least he didn’t reject you outright. That was enough.

Bachira, who suddenly appeared from behind a sand dune with a mischievous grin, waved at both of you. “Finally! Rin, you’re starting to open up!”

Rin shot Bachira a half-annoyed look. “Don’t butt in.”

Bachira just laughed and continued walking toward the sea as if he didn’t care. “Don’t worry, Rin. I’m sure you two will be fine.”

Rin looked at you again, this time more calmly. “I... will try,” he said softly, almost like a promise he didn’t fully understand yet.

You nodded, feeling a little relieved. “I’ll be patient. There’s no need to rush.”

Maybe this wasn’t the end of your journey, and maybe it wasn’t a perfect beginning, but at least you knew that both of you had started something new. A small step toward a fate that couldn’t be avoided.

As you both stood there, by the peaceful beach, the red string no longer felt like a burden. Instead, there was a sense of hope starting to grow between you two.

Maybe this was the start of an unexpected journey.

|| I don't know, should I continue or is it done? Honestly I want to, but I want to finish a lot of my final semester assignments. It's quite a lot.. and well that's it😭😭

Thank you for reading my writing! <3

Here's the second parttt!!

[croquis-el]

Why are there lycoris (spider lilies) in Naruhodo's hospital ward?

I think many of us were initially puzzled when we noticed this detail: why exactly these flowers, and in a hospital, and on a completely healthy person? Does someone wish him harm?

Not at all.

In fact, the history of lycoris, or higanbana as they are called in Japan, is not as ancient as it might seem, and the meanings and symbolism of these flowers have changed over the centuries.

Higanbana or Lycoris radiata is a bulbous plant from the lily family, common throughout Japan. It is believed that Higanbana was brought to Japan from Korea or China during the Muromachi period (室町 1333-1568) for its biological properties.

The Spider Lily’s strong association with death has led to its traditional planting in graveyards and temples. It is believed that the flower’s toxicity (its bulbs contain lycorine, a toxic alkaloid) helps deter animals from disturbing the resting places of the dead.

The flower’s name, “Higanbana,” translates to “flower of the afterlife” or “equinox flower,” reflecting its association with the autumnal equinox and the Buddhist festival of Higan.

Higan (彼岸, lit. "distant shore") is a Buddhist holiday exclusively celebrated by Japanese sects for seven days; three days before and after both the Spring equinox (shunbun) and Autumnal equinox (shūbun). During this time, Japanese people honor their ancestors, and the blooming of these flowers serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life.

In Higan, various rituals are performed to help the soul overcome the path from the west, from the world of “confusion and disorder”, to the east, into the world of “enlightenment”.

In Japan, there is a proverb: “Heat and cold end in Higan” (jp: 暑さ寒さも彼岸まで), which means the change of seasons.

Despite these somber associations, the spider lily is also a symbol of renewal and the cycle of life and death. During the Higan festival, the flower represents the passage from the physical world to the spiritual, reminding people to reflect on their lives and the lives of those who have passed on.

The spider lily is also linked to the concept of impermanence, a central tenet in Buddhism. The flower blooms suddenly and fades just as quickly, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of life. Its bright red color is often associated with blood and the idea of finality, further cementing its connection to death and the afterlife.

Spider Flower blooms carry a tapestry of meanings across cultures. Historically, they've been symbols of both invitation and solitude, suggesting a dual nature. In some traditions, they represent an open invitation to explore the unknown, while in others, they signify a desire for privacy and independence.

The Higanbana flower can also symbolize: sad memories, thinking only of you, looking forward to seeing you, reunion (gain), passion, independence (distancing), refusal (reconciliation), horror.

There are many myths and superstitions associated with the flower. It was believed that flowers have magical powers and can influence the fate of people: for example, if you hide a flower in the bed of a loved one, this can create an unbreakable attachment until death. Its flowers symbolize strong feelings and an eternal connection. Therefore, lycoris can be given to express deep affection, devotion, respect, as a sign of reverence.

Let's summarize.

Spider lily can mean:

1. symbol of renewal and the cycle of life and death

2. impermanence

3. idea of ​​finality

4. invitation and solitude

5. looking forward to meeting you, thinking only of you

6. reunion (gain)

7. strong feelings and eternal connection

8. independence (distancing)

9. refusal (reconciliation)

In other words, these flowers literally symbolize the beginning of Naruhodo's path to returning to the legal world, to his "rebirth" as an innocent man. And the one who gave these flowers is looking forward to meeting and reuniting. Who could it be...

[icarusredwings]

Carly Crocker

(Not to be confused with Carly Boothe, That's Al's girlfriend, This is Beast's wife, Story of Wade meeting her at the end)

The beauty and the beast episode pissed me off, so let's go, In finding home AU Carly Anne Crocker (aka the ex blind girl) shows up later to the mansconfesses her feelings to Hank. This time, Jeans words ring in his head about letting a girl decide how much she wants to risk and can't turn her away. If anything, he is overwhelmed with joy. I mean, come on, it doesn't take a genius to know he struggles with romance so the fact that he loved her so much and let her go, and she still came back to him? It's enough to make his entire face purple and spin her around. And if you're wondering, 'Do they replace Scott and Jean as the mansion 'lovebirds' ?'

YES. Yes, they do. Because there is not a word that describes how utterly whipped he is for her, and she sees no one else the way him, even before the operation. She can still recognize him by scent and foot steps alone.

Now that I fixed that, here's some head canons.

Carly, now that she stays at the mansion, can quickly be unnoticeable, especially if you don't go in the basement or the lab. Most people only first meet/ notice her when he comes upstairs with her on his arm.

She is mainly seen talking with Jean, but she has no distaste for any of the others. Anyone can come talk to her, and she would be more than happy to talk. She does occasionally ask questions that might seem personal, letting her curiosities of her new friends get to her.

Asking Kurt why his tail wraps around peoples legs when he hugs them, asking Kitty what would happen if she accidently got stuck in a wall, asking Ororo why she was claustrophobic, asking Logan what it was like in the 1800s. Asking Remy what it was like growing up on the streets with his type of powers. She once even asked Charles if he had regrets about opening a school.

Some things she just stook to asking Hank about. Like why Rouge didn't have a very strong trust in other women other than the ones on the team. Or How Scott delt with all the preasure of somehow representing the X men when the entire world seemed to dislike them until a time of crisis when heros are needed.

For the most part, he'd quote something at her or give her a simple awnser. "My dear, Rouge has had a hard life, and not a great time with her mother. I would steer clear of asking her this directly seeing as you dont wish to upset her, do you?" Its asked in a genuine stand point. Never trying to shame her into not being curious.

Of course, she doesn't wish to upset her friends. But there is so many lies on the media and they hold struggles she couldn't possibly understand without asking.

Hank is very chivalrous, between opening doors, taking her hand when they go up the steps, writing her notes, looks away when he feels shes indecent (dispite them having gotten married almost asap) Brings her small gifts of flowers and cakes, anything really he finds she might enjoy.

Being practically attached to the hip, she learns a lot of things and becomes somewhat of an assistant type, bringing him things, scolding him for staying up too late, forcing him to take breaks in order to eat, teasing him as a last resort. It's very Pepper Potts of her really.

Except Hank isn't like Stark. He listens (most days 🙄) seeing as he finds Carly can be very.. distracting.. when she wants too.

Mainly, She dosn't call him beasts unless she is saying "My Beast" or "Youre the only beast in my heart." Sappy stuff like that drives Hank insane. What also makes him a bit looney is when she refers to herself as "Mrs. McCoy." Or calls for him with a sweet low "Oh, Henry~"

Other than that, it's either Hank, Dr. McCoy or just Sweetie.

Carly also doesn't mind him hanging from things. She finds it cute and often teases him about Spiderman kissing her. She also simply adores when the bed dips down low and she can cuddle him like a huge teddy. Who needs a blanket when your husband was covered in the softest fur you've ever felt?

Sometimes Carly brushes him out, to save the drain later you know? But also it felt nice to get him to finally relax and lean into her. She would kiss his face and tell him how handsome he is, dragging the brush across his arms and chest, giggling at how love drunk he looks.

Other times, when Carly got cold she'd just come to him and he'll hold her while working, walking around with her in his arm, her snuggled up on his shoulder. Something Carly has learned is that Hank is very touchy. Almost starved for it so she dosn't mind being carried or held.

He rubs her back, pecking kisses onto her head while he types up something or reads. Sometimes the children make fun of him, comparing carly and him to when king kong grabs that girl and climbs the empire state building. It makes Hank a bit upset but Carly giggles because they have no clue just how safe she feels in his arms.

I wanna assume that during her periods he carries her extra and wraps one of those travel heating pads around her, gives her pain meds and makes her food. Domestic stuff that really just makes you wanna AUUUGGHH when you think about it cause god damn hes a romantic.

At first, Hank, being so gentle with her was sweet. How gently he'd hold her in bed, how softly he'd be sure to grip her when carrying her. But Carly gets a bit frustrated when Hank acts like she's made from glass.

I can see him humming Mozart to her, calling her Dear 24/7, quoting poetry to her, being sure to kiss her before he leaves on missions, etc.

He is OBSESSED when she wears his white coat because its so big on her. He thinks its adorable and cant help but stare when ever he sees her walking around in it. (Even though she lowkey looks like the pope) Carly likes wearing it when its cold in the lab or when shes taking a nap in his library chair because it smells like him. Hank has many pictures of her but one of his favorites is when you fell asleep in his chair while wearing his coat and you can clearly see in the picture that you dozed off while reading. He thinks its absolutely the best thing in that stupid cellular device.

I can definitely see their first night together- TOGETHER being something difficult. Hes too gentle with her and it takes her riling him up to get him to fuck her properly. She fully understands what shes getting into and they have plenty of time and lube, so why not?

"Henry my darling, I love you very much, and I know you are scared but I am not damaged, I'm not going to shatter if you touch me. I'm not an old vase, I am your wife. One who is capable of deciding when it's enough. So please.. stop treating me like im a pricless artifact."

"B-but you are priceless-"

"Henry-" she gives him this look of 'quit the bs'

"O-okay... I suppose I can try.."

Once she breaks his whole "I can't be too rough or ill hurt her cause shes human" bullshit mindset, It's insane.

No, they aren't rabbits but it is quite frequent and its a shock how they haven't gotten pregnant yet.

If anything its like they both cant get enough of each other, between the whispers she does in his ear to his hands around her waist all the time.

Sweet jesus. Poor Logan. He has to hear all this. He (both old logan and worst logan) is very happy for his friend but GOD he didnt ever think he'd hear someone moan 'Oh fuck- Henry!' before as loudly as Carly does. Jesus sometimes he wishes he didnt have super hearing.

It's not until Storm mentions that Hank has a wife during orientation, in which Wade finds out, and clearly, he has to go tease her about it.

Sliding onto the stainless steel work place he smirks. He's in his regular clothes today so he fully expects her to scream. She dosn't.

"Oh.. Hello. Dr. McCoy is out at the moment." She says, like an assistant does.

He smiles all big and leans forward. "So you're married to big blue huh?"

Quite proudly she smiles. "Yes. I am."

"Wwooww good for him. Actually, it's no good for you." The first part seems normal, but it's never normal with Wade. "Does he bend you over that table over there?" He blurts out. Well shit- that was suppose to stay inside.

But Carly already is smirking. "Yes, he does. It's deeply sanitized."

Wades eyes widden as if he had hit jackpot. Everyone in this stuffy place was all stuck up and prim and proper. So to hear Carly straight up admit this felt like immediate friendship.

"Wooo look at you girl. Get it. But I gotta ask. Why?"

"Why the table or why did I marry him?"

"Oooh... Both!"

"Well, A. It's fun. B. He's a good man. He's very sweet to me, even when I was blind I knew there was something about him. He cares for me so much more then anyone else has."

Wade feels like he can relate. He wants to say something honest like 'Yeah, He is a pretty good guy isnt he?' But instead his brain had other ideas.

"What? You into weird lookin mutants or something?" He makes a face that would have been wiggling his brows, if he had any.

It makes Carly shake her head, giggling.

"Well, not particualry but... You know what they say about guys with big feet.."

This made sense about wolvie actually..

He gasps loudly, hand coming to his mouth. "You naughty gal!! So it is true. You know, I've always wondered myself."

"Mmh. Now that I awnsered your questions, you have to awnser mine about the Wolverine."

"Ooh smart. Did your research I see. Who warned you I was coming?"

She gigles again. "My husband."

"Ahh that snitch. So. What do you wanna know? Im an open book but I do have a lying disorder. Full warning."

"Is it true what they say? That canadians make good lovers?" She asks, leaning on the table that Wade was now kicking his feet on.

"Unless...y'know... if you're into that sort of thing." This last bit is a whisper as Wade daintily flashes the tags around his neck while trying to give her a flirty face. "I'm owned, baby! You can't have me. Im too expensive."

He gasps again, putting a hand to his chest. "Woah woah woah! Ladies! Calm down. Im a married man!!"

COUGH engaged. Actually COUGH

Again, Carly shakes her head, giggling. Goodness. What a character this one was. "No, unfortunately, I am not. And im sure you are."

"Well, good! Cause if you break my friends heart ill rip yours out." He says, smiling, but you could tell behind those moonstone eyes that there was no joke about it.

"If I ever break his heart, I'll rip it out myself." Carly says, staring him dead center. She wasn't afraid. Should she be? Yes. But she wasn't. Because she knows the only way Hank was getting rid of her was if he cheated or hit her.

Just as he was about to say something else, he turns, hearing a "Wade?" In which suddenly he gasps again, drimatically. "Woah!! Stay off me lady! You're married!! What would ol hanky panky think about this!?" It's loud, over the top, and he even holds himself like carly was just trying to strip him all while she stood there, crossed arms, hip out and only a slightly entertained smirk.

"Really?"

"Wade what do you need?" Said blue guy asks, coming around to set down two lunch trays.

"Your wifes tryna get dirty with the poole Hank!" He says and now theres two people giving him a stupid look.

"Yeah.. riiigghhhtt.... anyway. I believe Logan is looking for you. Shall I tell him you're busy?"

Wade grins widely as he jumps off the table. "Nope. Have a wonderful day. Great meeting you. You're nothing like my roommate's girlfriend Carly, though. She's polish. You dont look polish-"

"Wade.."

"Bye! My HUSBAND is callin me!" He says, practically skipping away, out of their hair and into someone elses.

".. What a weird man." She says, watching him go. "Indeed..."

[dollwhite]

wow..?.

part two

Made by Dollwhite

I’m so glad I got this done 😣 it was kicking my ass all lest week ps I need friends 😭 pls be my friend, I like DC things, I kinda like K-pop?. Oh and I love food, ima go grab some food right now!! I also like transformers my favorite is bumblebee 😭 yes I know that’s basically everyone’s favorite. But idc 💗

Now..Wally was sitting with his friends in his apartment. Trying to explain why.. his ‘girlfriend’ they don’t believe he has one. They think he payed some hot chick to play his girlfriend.

”ok what I’m not understanding is that, YOU Wally west got a hot girlfriend before me?” Conner questioned. “ ya just agh, and I’m fine, sum not added up. You pay her?” He added on. It wasn’t a bad joke, no. He was seriously questioning him. Wally with a girlfriend that’s hot at that!? if ya told Conner this a week age, he would have never believed it. But with his super hearing….

HIS NOT A CREEP!!! sometimes the super hearing be hearing even when he doesn’t mean it. So well Wally and let’s call her hot girl were talking he… may or may have not been listening to their conversation..

”agh, what’s there not to understand dude. Yes, I have a girlfriend she’s hot! Big deal cuz after this I might not have a girlfriend!!. and did you just called me ugly?? Your ugly!!” Wally shouted. this is exactly why he didn’t tell them he had a girlfriend. He thought they would over react, and that’s exactly what they’re doing.!

“If she’s your girlfriend why did ya let her walk home dude, it’s Gotham. Dangerous place for a lady to be walking around all alone.” Artemis asked.

Because who just lets their girlfriend walk around at night IN Gotham? If that was her girlfriend that would not be the case. She’s not judging, she is but that’s beside the point.

“My- she’s not the type to want people to go after her. If she walks away she wants to be alone. If that wasn’t the case do you think i would just let her walk away?” Wally replied.

he would never let his girlfriend walk around Gotham, if he didn’t think you could take care of yourself.

“Uh even if she’s wants to be alone wouldn’t have made sense for to at lest text her, just to make sure she got home safely?” Dick stated

he hasn’t seen Wally pick up his phone at all. Dick can get wanting to give your girlfriend space but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to check up on her.

That’s just a basic boyfriend rule always check up on your girlfriend even if they are mad at you.

“It would end up with me being blocked.” Wally grumbled. “So how are we going to get her to forgive me?” Wally quickly added, on before any of them could comprehend what had been said moments earlier.

“The fuck you mean we?? I’m not the one that got her mad at you.” Conner argued.

“yeah dude I’m with Conner on this one, you never get involved with in a augment between a couple. Plus you kinda brought this on yourself.” Dick scolded, even if Wally was his best friend. He will never get between a arguing couples.

“I did not bring this on myself! She got mad because you all crashed our date.” He said, he knows he plays a part of you getting mad at him but he can’t take all the blame.

”hm I believe you did.” Artemis stated, grabbing a hand full of gummy bears off the little coffee table.

Now four people including Wally were standing outside of your condo….

you were grabbing a water out of your freezer, when all of sudden you saw you front door handle being unlocked.

Seeing your door unlocked well you were standing in your kitchen. Was something.. a big something. You know you boyfriend had a key to your place but he always texted you a heads up before coming over. As you approached the front door it swung open. Revealing, your boyfriend Wally and what you assumed are three of his close friends.

“Hi.?.” You said confusion written all across your face. Glancing you noticed favorite flowers and f/c sitting tightly in Wally’s arms. “What are you doing here.?” You asked steeping to the side so all of them could walk through your door.

“ we came here to apologize.” Wally muttered. “ No, you came to apologize we came here to meet the pretty lady!” Artemis quickly corrected. Her eyes consciously making their why over to you, “I love your boots where ya get them?”

“Oh, I got them for Christmas so i don’t really know.” Your eyes glanced down at your Demonia camel 311 boots. They were cute high boots your grandfather got you for Christmas, you don’t know we’re in heaven he found them.

Y’all can just imagine the apology part AGH I’m done if I spend any more time on this story I think ima be having dreams about it 😭 thank y’all so much for 45 followers!! Ps the reason this took so long was because my dumb ass actually deleted this the first time I wrote it so I had to redo it all over again 😕 Tumblr needs to get a box for all the deleted things cuz i promise the next time I delete something on accident ima quit.

Also I am half way done making a plot for BRAT 😆 and yes chapter 3 most likely will not be here until 7-11 because that’s when my package is coming, I Ordered it on the 25 last month but it’s still not here 😔. I might make a part three but I might not it just depends on how I feel.

Bye loves dollwhite signing out💗

[onmyo-jin]

ZYZ + ZYC (49. …out of necessity)

(asexual-ZYC attempts to make an advance on ZYC, out of what he feels is necessity, hurt/comfort ensues ♥️)

I cannot tell you how much joy this prompt gave me, thank you so much! It took a while to get this story down the way I wanted to, I hope you enjoy 🖤🩶🤍💜

Zhuo Yichen isn't blind. He has long since seen the eyes Zhao Yuanzhou makes at him when he thinks Yichen isn't watching, or even when he is. He has heard the flirtations (the same as directed an Wen Xiao), has heard Yinglong say zhiji, he has noticed the others giving them space to be alone, creating chances for him to confess. 

It's not that he doesn't like Zhao Yuanzhou. Most of the time the demon is sharper, funnier, more interesting, more true to his own nature than anyone Zhuo Yichen has ever seen. He wants to spend time with the demon, he wants to be the one sitting next to him, wants to feel as comfortable around the other as his friends seem to be– as Wen Xiao seems to be, despite the demon's endless stream of flirty comments.

Except…

Love is a confusing thing, to Zhuo Yichen. He loves (present tense, always present tense) his brother, his father, loves his friends. Only that doesn't seem to be the kind of love that makes people do ridiculous things. The kind of love that makes young people foolish and old people feel young, the kind of love that inspires so much art and poetry and song– This kind of love is not something Zhuo Yichen feels. Well, that or he is the most sensible person the world has ever seen.

Regardless, he likes Zhao Yuanzhou. In a way that feels different to the way he cares about his family and friends, he really likes that annoying demon. And the demon seems interested in him. So according to all the great stories, the songs, the poems (he has done his research, thank you very much), if two people like each other then they kiss. And that's how you're sure that it is love, and not just like.

And that's how he ended up here, waiting for everyone else to retire after their dinner on the veranda, hoping Zhao Yuanzhou doesn't go to bed before the others do. It is late, and they've already collectively bullied Bai Jiu into going to bed, with placations and lies that they too are about to sleep. Pei-daren may even have been telling the truth, for she retired soon after. Ying Lei is still talking, going on about this divine feast he was invited to some decades ago and about how he wants to recreate a specific dish. Wen Xiao knows him better than anyone, and winked at him when she left, claiming she had some more studying to do.

Zhao Yuanzhou has been eyeing him all evening, and Zhuo Yichen has never before had cause to wonder if this is what a piece of fruit on a market stall might feel like. He's not sure he likes the feeling of waiting to be picked, of being judged, or perhaps of being assumed to be something delicious– anyway. 

Ying Lei yawns halfway through his meandering description of herbs he'd need to grow, and stands from the table. "I'm heading to bed as well, you two night owls behave yourself!"

"What do you-"

"We always do," Zhao Yuanzhou answers over Zhuo Yichen. The mountain god snorts and shakes his head as if they were children and not an ancient demon and a human more responsible than their little runaway god himself.

With Ying Lei gone this would be the perfect time to make his move. The only thing he needs to do is to turn to Da Yao and… kiss. Just kiss him. Somehow the songs and the stories failed to mention how hard that next step would be. Zhuo Yichen stares at his tea cup, and finds himself wishing for something stronger. The tea stares back at him, growing cold in accusation of his inaction. The silence loudly proclaims his failure to act, the night sky moving inexorably on to morning.

"Zhuo-daren?" Zhao Yuanzhou's questions startles him, and he turns to the demon. "You've been preoccupied all evening, am I really so very distracting?" He knows the smirk the demon will be wearing before he even turns to look at him. When he does it is hard to look away from those lips.

"No," the lie is painfully obvious to Zhuo Yichen, and of course the demon notices too. For the first time Zhuo Yichen can say he is grateful for the fact that Zhao Yuanzhou is such a flirt.

"Did you know demons can sense lies, Xiao Zhuo-daren? Why don't you tell me what's really on your mind-"

"-Can I kiss you?" The words are out of his mouth before he knows it, and he cringes at how silly, how earnest, how innocent he sounds. His cheeks are burning, and he'd give anything to be elsewhere right now. Perhaps the earth can open up to swallow him, perhaps enemies can beset the capital, hordes of demons attack the Bureau, absolutely anything… Anything would be better than sitting under the stars by the light of a few candles as Zhao Yuanzhou stares at him.

Surprise is the first emotion that flashes across Da Yao's face, but amusement follows it swiftly enough. Close behind it is a hunger Zhuo Yichen doesn't have a name for. Is that what love is, or even lust? A hunger? It seems strange, but Yichen doesn't have the time to think about that now. The silence stretches too long, and Zhuo Yichen is about to start making excuses, blame the food, the time of night, even an imaginary fever or poison.

Then the demon is moving, swift as a blade, and Zhuo Yichen almost tries to block and evade until he realizes: he asked for this. Zhao Yuanzhou lunges for him like he is attacking, but grabs him as soft as one would hold a flower, one hand snaking around his waist and the other around his neck. His lips meet Yichen's in a soft greeting, asking without words to touch him and yet being so much more eloquent about it. It's… strange. People do this for fun?

The lips against his own are warm, and while not unpleasant it's a little weird. People use their mouths for eating, and talking, and breathing– and then they also want to touch their mouths together? For extended periods of time? It isn't bad, per se, and Yichen is no poet or artist, but this does not seem like something that inspires such great art.

"Xiao Zhuo?" Oh gods. He's been thinking too much, and Zhao Yuanzhou has noticed while kissing him that he… doesn't care for kissing, apparently. "What's wrong?"

How does one explain to the person you just asked to kiss you that no, thank you for the scientific experiment, I'm not actually interested in doing that. In hindsight Zhuo Yichen realizes how awful his question was. He got the demon's hopes up over nothing, only to disappoint him. Li Lun's words about humanity's cruelty echo in his mind. Zhao Yuanzhou's eyes are searching his face, increasingly concerned with his lack of answer. He is still holding Zhuo Yichen ever so gently, their faces still close enough to feel the demon's breath ghost across his skin.

Zhuo Yichen shrinks back, breaking that gentle hold, trying to hide himself from those kind, concerned eyes. "I'm sorry."

Da Yao reaches for him, this time slowly instead of knife-fast, and lays a careful hand on his arm. The weight of it settles with the weight of a thousand expectations and Zhuo Yichen stares at it like it is something fearful. Whatever Zhao Yuanzhou reads in his gaze makes him retract his hand quick as lightning.

"I'm sorry," Zhuo Yichen repeats. He might be apologizing for either of his actions, or both, or for even waking up and thinking this was a good idea. He's honestly not sure which one it is. Perhaps running away like Ying Lei did is not such a ridiculous action after all. Especially because the ground isn't obligingly opening up and swallowing him whole. He focuses his attention on his abandoned tea cup, because he can feel Zhao Yuanzhou's eyes searching his face.

"I'm not sorry," the demon announces, and it's such a weird thing to say that it makes Zhuo Yichen look back into those dark eyes. "I got to kiss my favourite human, so whatever it is that you've done: I don't mind." His smile is entirely cheerful mischief and is such a 180 from moments before that Zhuo Yichen knows he is acting, and reacts accordingly to roll his eyes.

"There, that's the infamous Zhuo-daren I know," Zhao Yuanzhou drops part of the mischief-mask, but keeps his smile. He returns to his own seat instead of being so terribly close, and waits patiently for Yichen to sit upright and collect his thoughts. "Now, if Zhuo-daren would tell this lowly demon what he has done wrong, perhaps this one can forgive him, hm?" He makes it sound so easy, Zhuo Yichen thinks. He makes it sound so tempting, as well: forgiveness. 

Zhuo Yichen stares at the demon for a long moment before deciding to put away his pride. It's the least he can do for leading the demon on like that. "I… have never kissed anyone," he begins, and resolutely looks away from the smirk Zhao Yuanzhou lips curl into at those words. "All the stories say people kiss, but I've never understood why? It just… has never seemed interesting." 

"And it was interesting enough to ask now?"

"I wasn't sure– so I thought I should check, because kissing seems to be how people tell if they…"

"If they like one another?" Zhao Yuanzhou completes the words that Zhuo Yichen cannot make himself say.

"Yes," he admits, looking firmly at the table.

Laughter is probably the last reaction Zhuo Yichen expected, but Zhao Yuanzhou is laughing. "Ah, Xiao Zhuo, I have good news: there are many more ways to tell a person you like them besides kissing."

When the demon says it it sounds so simple, so obvious. Zhuo Yichen wonders why he hadn't thought of that, why the stories are so full of kissing if there are other ways to show love. Still, he feels the need to check: "You don't mind?"

"Mind? That I was given your first and last kiss? Why, Zhuo-daren I am honoured-oof," Zhuo Yichen punches him in the shoulder for that, but stays to wait while Zhao Yuanzhou gets them the wine he offered earlier. They've got much more to talk about.

[wolvesofinnistrad]

Buck is so fucking tired. Its been months, months trapped in this godforsaken day.

Hes tried everything to get out, he tried making up with his exes (except Tommy), hes tried talking to everyone he knows (except Tommy), hes even tried many implausible and at times downright stupid things (only half of those were based on ideas from Chimney and Eddie.)

Today was a break day. Hed needed a few to recover after his last attempt. At least the airtime had been nice for a few seconds before the pain cut straight to the next day. No strategizing either, not that he was getting much of anywhere since he had to remind whoever he was with that day, (usually Eddie, sometimes Hen or Chim, occassionally Maddie, rarely anyone else after the first few times) of every scheme hed already tried.

No today he was doing the only mildly interesting part of this living prison, exploring the city. He'd found a new farmer's market, went to the beach, and now he was stopping to get coffee.

As he exited the building he ran directly into someone, spilling his coffee all over himself. The burn honestly didnt much phase him anymore. Not after day 87 anyway. Still.

"Dang, watch it man," he said, none of the usual fawning apologies he'd have given before the loop.

"No it was my... fault," came a voice he knew so well yet hadnt heard in almsot a year now.

Well, for him almsot a year, for Tommy Kinnard standing in front of him it was only like 2 months.

"Oh this is fucking great," he said to himself before pulling out his phone. "Hildy make a not not to come here next loop I'm not doing this again," he said as he turned and started to walk away.

Then a hand grabbed his wrist and tugged, he tried to wrench his arm away but Tommy was just as strong as he was.

"Evan, what did you just say?"

Buck shook himself loose after another jolt of his arm before looking at Tommy. It still hurt, fuck it did, but he had worse things to deal with. "Don't worry about it Tommy. You don't ever have to worry about me again, you made that clear." Again hes about to turn away when Tommy calls out to him.

"Are you in a time loop?"

That was a new record. Chim had been the fastest to ever get it at 2 hours. Slowly he turned around, despite his better judgment.

"Considering you won't rmemeber this tomorrow, and we wont see each other, yes Tommy Ive been stuck in a time loop for months now. Its getting pretty fucking old actually." Despite the fact he was definitely being a bit bitchy, Tommys face was doing some confusing journey between surprise, relief and then happiness. By the time he stopped talking the man seemed to be vibrating before he pounced, hugging Buck so hard he thought he might crack a rib.

As much as Buck might have missed this, he was pretty fucking confused. "To-mmy..."

Tommy let go, pulling back and laughing a bit hysterically. "Evan," oh, his name sounded so good on Tommys tongue how had he forgotten "i thought i was going crazy."

"What?"

Tommy shook his head. "I mean, i didnt believe it at first. Obviously you know my skepticism, even after the Billy Boils thing." Tommy gave him a softer smile then. "But after a while, and a few different trips to the hospital it became clear there wasnt anything physically wrong with me, which meant either i was crazy, or, well, I was stuck in a time loop."

Buck stood there staring at the man he'd once been on the cusp of loving, of spending forever with, and realized they were both stuck, potentially forever, in a single day.

"I cant believe this... have you met anyone else thats on the loop?"

Tommy shook his head again, glancing around before motioning for them to take a seat outside the cafe. He grabbed some napkins, giving them to Buck to wipe at his stained shirt.

"No. Ive talked to a few people, Lucy, Sal, even Howie a few different times but never even considered someone else might be stuck too."

Buck dabbed at his shirt with little actual concern. He was more focused on this trippy development. "And youve tried to get out?"

"Oh boy, yes, tried doing everything right, doing nothing, tried talking to my dad even, that was a big mistake." His head tilted to the side in that way Buck remembered fondly, when Tommy was trying to dodge the severity of something he didnt want to admit hurt. "Heck I even called Abby thinking maybe i needed to apologize or something but... nothing." He held out his empty hands and shrugged.

Buck couldnt help what came out next. "Didnt call to apologize to me. And Id know, considering im also in the loop."

Tommy didnt say anything for a long moment until. "I thought about it. So many times. Talked myself out of it. Didnt think it was right to only contact you to try to free myself."

"Self sacrificing idiot," Buck said, tossing a balled up napkin at his chest.

"Guilty as charged."

That admission actually made Buck smile for the first time. "Dang, only took you a full blown time loop to admit it huh?"

Tommy laughed. "Groundhog day hell has humbled me I guessm"

Buck quirked an eyebrow. "What does any of this have to do with a holiday about a rodent predicting the weather?"

Tommy looked surprised, the expression soon melting into a sort of shocked amusement. "Ill explain it to you later. Looks like we've got the time. A lot of it actually."

"Yeah, I guess we do." Buck looked at him, and it still hurt, but there was camaraderie there, stuck in the same situation with only one person that understood. For the first time since the breakup he felt like things were starting to make sense again. And maybe, just maybe, if they could find a way to move past this day... well maybe they could find a way to move past their own problems too.

[sunny374940]

The sound of your happiness warms my heart

Um so I read a headcanon that elves can purr and my brain took it and spat out this story. This is a little fluffy piece about Emmrich finding out that Rook can purr.

Here on ao3.

And here are my other emmrook stories, of which there seems to be a lot.

Emmrich was reading in bed, waiting for Rook to join him there so they could retire for the night. It was quiet in the bedroom and he was focused on trying to understand a rather confusing thought process of the author, when a curly head of hair appeared in his lap, seemingly between blinks. Rook was on his back, watching him with a grin.

“Hello, my dear,” greeted Emmrich, smiling down on him. How he had ended up with the silliest lover in all of Thedas he had no idea, but he found he was enjoying himself immensely.

“Read to me, please?”

That was an unusual request, given his reading material.

“Darling, I'm afraid the theories I'm reading would be terribly dull to you.”

Rook stared up at him, eyes round and pleading. “But I like listening to your voice,” he said with such disarming earnestness that Emmrich was taken aback. He never considered his voice especially pleasing to the ear and Johanna in particular would call it grating whenever he went on about spirits for too long, but the look on Rook's face was very clear on the matter.

“Oh, I-” He cleared his throat, feeling a blush coming on, so he turned his eyes back to the book and started reading aloud.

“The properties of Fade tears in relation to surrounding thaumic energy are such…”

He noticed that Rook had closed his eyes in contentment, nuzzling his face against Emmrich's stomach with a sigh and his arms came to encircle his waist. Well then, he could spend the evening like this, unexpected though this course of events was.

He had been reading to Rook for about half an hour when he first noticed it, a quiet droning sound right at the edge of hearing, here one moment and gone the next, quite pleasant in a hard to define way. Did one of Neve's wisps manage to sneak in? A quick glance around the room revealed no curious intruders, so he lowered his eyes back to the book.

As he was reading, he snuck a hand down to stroke Rook's hair, enjoying the happy little sighs his actions produced, and he was running a finger along the point of Rook’s ear, when the sound came again. He fell silent and looked down at Rook to ask him if he heard it as well, but Rook was staring ahead of himself with wide eyes and his cheeks were turning a rather magnificent shade of pink.

“You heard that, huh?” he said slowly, as if quite unhappy about the fact.

“Indeed I did, darling. And might I ask just what that was?”

There was an indistinct mumble from his lap, as Rook had covered his face with his hand in apparent mortification.

“Excuse me, I didn't quite catch that.”

“Iwaspurring,” Rook said, louder this time, the words coming out in a rush, like he was in a hurry to get the embarrassment over with.

“Purring? Like cats do?” Emmrich was intrigued. He had never heard of a person who had the ability, as cats apparently possessed a different anatomy of the throat to enable them to purr.

“Some elves can do it too. I was the only one in my clan, as far as I've been told. The other kids made fun of me, so I learned to stop myself from doing it. Mostly. But sometimes it happens on its own, like when I get really happy. It's embarrassing…” Rook trailed off, still hiding himself away and that just wouldn't do. He wouldn't allow him to think that he had to keep his happiness from him.

Emmrich gently removed the hand from Rook's face. He was still wearing that slightly panicked expression and Emmrich found himself quite angry at the people who made him feel this way, though he tried not to let his ire show as he spoke.

“Darling, there is nothing embarrassing about making your emotions known. And I must selfishly say that the sound is quite pleasant and I would love to hear more of it, if you’d care to indulge me.”

Rook looked up at that, incredulous. “You don't think it's weird?” His voice was small, that of a boy who had been ridiculed one too many times.

“I think that making you happy enough that you let go of your inhibitions is an incredible honor and I would be delighted if you shared your happiness with me.”

Rook seemed to be thinking about it, the blush of cheeks becoming even more pronounced.

“Can you… go back to your book?” he finally said as he settled himself back down, still looking a tad uneasy at the way he revealed his secret.

“Of course, my dear.”

Emmrich picked up where he left off and pretended he wasn't at all waiting for Rook to start purring once more. The effort was heroic, really, because he wanted nothing more than to make him feel safe enough to let his guard down. He was just resigning himself to try another time, when it came again. And this time it wasn't soft, nor quiet enough to be barely heard. It was a rumble of a sound, reverberating from Rook's throat and Emmrich could feel the vibration where Rook was lying across his legs. It felt amazing, the sound filling his very soul with joy.

He stumbled over his words a little, but rallied himself and kept on reading, careful not to disturb Rook, who seemed to be lost in a world of his own. His breaths were soon coming deeper, evening out, and Emmrich realized after a while that he was no longer awake, though the purrs kept coming in time with his breathing.

“Thank you, darling,” he whispered as he pulled the covers over them.