#and i want to go back to my witchy ways in this form

[windydrawallday]

THE GOAT THAT KEEPS GIFTING

I have been reading about the Wheel of Year's festivals, and I got caught by the idea of one of Yule's activities being about creating straw decorations in the form of goats! And so this design was born 💝 Happy holidays!!!

[ariascoven]

⟡ COZY & SPOOKY | A. HARKNESS

PAIRING : agatha harkness x reader

SUMMARY : nothing like a halloween movie night in the comfort of your home, with your wife and son

CONTENT + WARNINGS : established relationship, agatha is reader’s wife. domestic & fluff. soft agatha. gender neutral reader. petnames (dear, honey, love & cinnamon). agatha is weird and doesn't like hocus pocus — movie of the century 🤷‍♀️

WORD COUNT : 2k

A/N : happy halloween, witches <3 just a bit of soft wife agatha for the soul. also, i never meant for it to be this long, jesus christ. sorry? or you're welcome. i don't really like this, i dunno

AO3 | MASTERLIST

The soft rain poured outside and you watched as the raindrops raced their way down the kitchen window’s glass. You could hear the sound of your wife and son playing and laughing together in the next room, a soft smile playing on your lips as you finished making hot chocolate for your Halloween movie night, adding cream to Nichola’s cup and cinnamon to Agatha’s, just the way they liked it. “Honey, could you come help me carry the food?” You called out, your head poking out of the kitchen door.

You watched as your wife nodded, planting a quick kiss on your child’s forehead and ascending from the couch. She gave you a quick peck on the lips as she slipped into the kitchen, grabbing the popcorn and the chips. “You're not going to make me watch that ridiculous excuse of a witch movie, are you, dear?” She raised an eyebrow at you, her tone a mixture of annoyance and affection.

Your hands moved to your hips, mouth hanging open in the purest form of offense. “If you're talking about Hocus Pocus, yes, I will. And it is not ridiculous! It's a Halloween classic that made history. Be more respectful.” She laughed with amusement at your words, shaking her head.

You pouted, bottom lip sticking out in a childish manner. She used it to her advantage, tugging it between her teeth playfully and making you gasp. “I’ve never seen you defend your own wife the way you defend that movie. But fine, just because Nicky likes it. But just so you know-!”

You sighed, carrying the hot chocolate and marshmallows to the living room and ignoring your witchy wife blabbering about how Hocus Pocus is a terrible stereotype of witches and that they do not use brooms — even though you knew she used to, centuries ago. You gave Nicholas a hug as you sat down, pulling him onto your lap and ruffling his hair. “Ready for movie night, baby?” You asked softly. He nodded enthusiastically and you smiled at his happiness.

“Hey, that's my spot!” Agatha’s voice invaded the room as she walked in, offense etched into her features as she referred to your lap. Nicholas laughed and his tongue hung out of his mouth as he hugged you tightly in order to make Agatha jealous. “Oh, young man, you don't want to see me mad!” She said playfully, organizing the food on the small table in front of the TV and dragging it closer to the couch so Nicholas could reach it with more ease.

The two of you spent the entire morning decorating the whole house while Nicholas was asleep; fairy lights everywhere, paper bats glued onto the walls, a few skeletons around the rooms and small witch hats here and there — definitely your idea, Agatha hated them. Your wife would never reveal the upsetting truth about the disappearance of maybe two or three of the miniature hats; she got rid of them, muttering something about ‘ridiculous stereotypes’ before throwing them in the trash and covering it with an empty package of whatever snack she found.

Agatha plopped down onto the couch next to you with a contented sigh, her arm snaking around your shoulders as she gave you a sweet kiss on the forehead, then on Nicky‘s. She rubbed your arm covered by your pumpkin sweater and nuzzled your neck, inhaling your scent before pulling back, snatching the remote from the armrest and turning on the TV.

“I’m assuming we're watching Pocus Hocus.” She nagged, her voice dripping with sarcasm and disdain, saying the wrong movie title on purpose to piss you off. It worked, she notices, when she whipped her head to the side and found you with narrowed eyes. You heard your child giggle on your lap, shaking his head exaggeratedly. “No, mama! It's Hocus Pocus! Not Pocus Hocus!”

With a smile, you watched your wife feigning offense and confusion, a hand flying to her chest dramatically. “What? Are you playing tricks on me, young man? It's obviously Pocus Hocus!” You blinked in surprise at how quickly Agatha snatched little Nicholas from your lap, laying him down on the couch and tickling his most sensitive spots, causing the child to kick and wave his arms around in a failed attempt to stop his mother’s actions. The sound of laughter filled the room, your heart swelling with love towards your little family.

You took the opportunity to press play on the movie and adjust the volume, your own legs bouncing with excitement — even though you watched this movie every October 31st. You heard an excited gasp escape Nicholas’ lips as he heard the movie starting, breaking free from the witch’s cruel torture. He laid his head on your lap, his legs comfortably resting on top of Agatha’s. A smile tugged at the corner of your wife’s mouth as she reached over to caress your son’s wild locks, pooling around his head like a halo. “Little angel.” She muttered, not loud enough for him to hear, curious eyes glued onto the image on the television.

Without a word, your head fell to the side, resting on Agatha’s shoulder, soft hair grazing against her cheek. The three of you spent the entirety of the movie in the same position, occasionally reaching over to grab something from the snack table that you prepared with much love. Nicholas laughed as he threw a popcorn inside of Agatha’s mouth, cheering when she caught it with perfection, waving and blowing kisses towards the non-existing audience. You felt lucky.

Lucky that you found the woman of your dreams, and terribly lucky that she chose you. In a world where she could choose to build a family with a powerful witch like her, she chose you instead; the awkward neighbor next door with big, curious eyes that kept stealing adoring glances towards her. The only person who never judged her after discovering she was a witch or the things she had done in the past. The person that made her feel at home.

After a quick bathroom break, you started up a second Halloween movie. You would be lying if you said you paid attention to the name or even to whatever was happening in the story, head tipping forward as you fought against the sleep that threatened to wash over you. It seemed you lost the battle, being awakened by Agatha’s voice against your ear, her hands gently shaking you. “Honey, Nicky fell asleep. I’ll get him to bed, you stay right here, alright?” She mumbled quietly getting up from the couch.

You felt the weight being lifted from your lap as she picked up your son’s sleeping form, cradling him lovingly in her arms. You rubbed your tired eyes with the back of your hand and a yawn left your lips while you waited for her to come back, legs being lazily thrown over the couch’s armrest. Your eyes fluttered closed once more, feeling yourself falling asleep again. Until you felt something poking your cheek, turning your head to glance at Agatha standing over you. She smiled and pinched your cheek. “Sleeping Beauty #1 is tucked in. Now, come here, it's time for Sleeping Beauty #2.”

You let out a whine as you felt yourself being lifted from the couch by her strong arms, your own wrapping around her neck as you nuzzled against it and showered the warm skin with kisses. She chuckled, making her way upstairs carrying you like it's nothing. She kicked the bedroom door open and slipped inside, repeating the gesture to shut it closed. You whined when you noticed she ignores the existence of your cozy, perfect bed, going towards the bathroom instead. “Nuh uh, no complaining. Let's get you a bath, okay? Then you can sleep.”

An annoyed grunt left your lips, but you didn't say anything, allowing her to sit you down on top of the toilet seat. With heavy eyes, you watched as she got the water started, humming a song that you're sure she made up. Like a child, you put your arms up for her delicate hands slipping your sweater off. She tugged at the waistband of your pants and you lifted your hips, a pout lingering on your lips at how carefully she undressed you. She kept a hand on your lower back as you got into the bathtub filled with bubbles to ensure you didn't slip.

The water splashed as you kickes your feet like a child would, a sigh escaping your lips. Agatha sat down on the edge of the bathtub, hands massaging your shoulders. You groaned, feeling your body relax under your lover’s skilled touch. “If I wasn't so tired, I'd ask you to wash my hair. Your hands are so damn good.” You breathed out, eyes narrowing at the teasing chuckle that immediately left Agatha’s lips. “Pervert.”

“I didn't say a thing.” She quickly responded to your insult, putting her hands up defensively. A comfortable silence washed over the bathroom as she kept massaging your shoulders and neck. As you yawned exaggeratedly, she dipped a finger into the water, noting the temperature was turning cold. “We should get you to bed now, love.” No matter how long you've been together, whenever she spoke in that soft tone of hers you simply melted. And she melted too, a soft smile playing on her lips as she noticed your adoring gaze.

Quickly getting you out of the tub, she sat you down onto the toilet seat once more to dry you with her purple towel. “Is this gonna make me smell like you?” You questioned cheekily with a raised brow. She chuckled lightly, planting a kiss on your cheek.

“It might. Is that good or bad?” Instructing you to put your arms up, she dressed you with care; in her clothes, of course. You looked down at yourself, your body being protected from the cold air by Agatha’s long, black pajamas.

“Good.” You muttered as you wiggled your feet after she finished putting on the pair of white socks. “You know I have my own clothes, right?” You teased. Your yelp was loud when she threw you over her shoulder like a sack of potatoes, your hands clumsily reaching to grip the back of her shirt. She threw you onto the bed, making you frown playfully.

“But you look so much better in mine.”

You turned on your side, curling up. Agatha threw the covers on top of you, kissing your nose. You heard the brunette walking into the bathroom, assuming she's changing into more comfortable clothes. Eyebrows furrowed when you noticed she was brushing her teeth. Reluctantly slipping out of the warm bed, you sauntered to the bathroom, standing next to your wife and grabbing your own toothbrush. She watched with a raised brow.

“Need to brush my teeth too, or else they are gonna get all gross and you won't love me anymore.” She looked amused at your words, an arm wrapping around you as you brushed your teeth together.

“You could have stayed in bed, dear. I’d just wake you up by shoving toothpaste and a brush in your face first thing in the morning.” She whined when you nudged her with your elbow painfully.

When you were done, you left Agatha behind and rushed to the comfort of your bed, jumping on it like a child and giggling. “Be careful.” You heard her say, glancing back to find her leaning against the doorframe while drying her hands. Turning your back to her with a huff, you missed the way she shook her head in amusement and threw the hand towel on top of the sink — which would definitely earn her a scolding in the morning.

She shuffled into bed behind you, hugging you and kissing your neck a few times. You hummed in contentment, pushing back against her comfortably.

“Goodnight, cinnamon. I love you.” She spoke against your ear, making you shiver. Cinnamon. That's a new one, you thought. You barely had time to mutter a response before drifting off to sleep, feeling happy and at home. Because you were.

[autumnsvoice87]

Spoonie Witchcraft- Full moon

So I have been thinking about low energy magic. As someone who is disabled I haven't had the energy to do withcraft the way I used to. I have not been doing much at all for the last year. There has been no moon water made, no ritutual magic, and I haven't even been able to smoke cleanse my home.

I have been stressed financially, as well as in extreme pain this past year. I decided to see what other spoonies had to say about what to do on a full moon. I want to do something, but I am not sure what I can or am able to do. I went to my witchy discord servers and Facebook groups and asked around. I also thought of a couple of ideas on my own as well.

Here are some ideas to use for the spoonie witch.

Sit outside under the full moon. This would be called moon bathing but sometimes theres a full ritual around it. However, just sitting out under the full moon and basking in its light is good enough. This is also only if weather permiting. Don't go out into a hurricane or other severe weather. You may just end up being blown away instead.

Prayer. Praying to the God's you believe in or work with in silence. Praying to your ancestors and giving them thanks for thier guidence and wisdom. Obviously this is more for pagan witches and not for the atheists.

Sigils. You can do sigils everywhere. You can draw a sigil on your palm and visualize its purpose. For example, drawing an abundance sigil and visualize money coming to you. It's a good simple spell. Can also draw sigils in your food with a knife or other utensil depending on what you are eating. Peanut butter jelly time!

Birthday candles. Using birthday candles in candle magic instead of regular candles can be a quick spell and still work just as effectively. Making wishes on cake is magic. Maybe make a wish on a chocolate swiss roll.

Tea and coffee. You speak intentions into your drinks. Maybe have a full moon tea blend and do this when the sun goes down. You can buy different blends of tea on etsy or at a farmers market.

Watching youtube videos. Watch videos about magic and the full moon. There might even be a live meditation on there you can join in on.

Tarot readings. A low spoonie tarot reading. A basic 3 card spread that is for fun and not the deep soul searching/healing that you may normally do. Another tarot idea is just to pull one card to just see what the message would be.

Gemstones on nightstand. Put stones on your nightstand that have the intentions you'd like to draw to you. For example, amethyst for protection against nightmares. Maybe green adventurine for bringing in luck and abundance to your life. Use black obsidian for protection against gossip. Well, by now, you get the idea.

Cleansing. There are multiple methods of cleansing. If you have enough energy, a small ritual shower could be what is needed to get more energy. Or, at the very least, feel more refreshed. If you can't stand for a shower, soaking in a tub with salt water will work. You may use a shower chair for the shower if you have one. I use a bar of soap that is hand-made by other witches. They tend to put essential oils and intentions, so there is a cleansing effect. If you are too low energy for that, going back to youttube idea; they have cleansing meditation music. You can sound cleanse with the music. You may also play witchy ambient music. There are a vast number of options for sound cleansing.

Journaling. Journaling is something that can be done lying down. You can find some journal prompts on Tumblr, or you can find them on pintinterest. You can do shadow work journaling as a form of releasing. It's fun to select a new journal or even get a fancy pen.

Dressing up. If you have a witchy shirt, dress, or robes. It is fun to dress up on the full moon in honor of the moon. Like going to a magical witchy party. I have 2 witchy dresses, a witchy sweater, and a long sleeve stars and moons blouse. I also have a regular black dress for if I want to be more subtle.

Self care. It is okay to just watch a movie or binge watch a favorite TV show. You could also read a book for fun. If you are very into astrology, depending on the astrological sign of the moon phase, self care would be more important. Tomorrow, the full moon is in Pisces, and there is a lunar eclipse. Self care may be the best option during this full moon in September.

I wanted to say a big thank you to The Four Winds Coven on Discord as well as the modern witch collective for helping me brainstorm this list. There are more of us spoonie witches out there than we think. This list is also great for someone who is just too busy to do much either. I hope you all enjoy these tips and tricks!

[amomentsescape]

I would like to know what a slasher relationship would be like with a hybrid fem witch/vampire. Sorry if it makes no sense, English is not my main language

Slashers with a Feminine Witch & Vampire Hybrid

A/N: This a great Spooky Season Request!

Freddy Krueger

He thinks it's hot, of course

Wants you to bite him just for the hell of it

His blood doesn't taste very good though (he's dead) so he tries to make up for it in other ways

Always brings home a body for you

But if that's not really your style, he'll happily come back with a jug of blood instead

Wants to see the types of spells you can cast

He turns it into a competition sometimes

You both go back and forth using your powers to change things around

Secretly wants you to use your powers on his victims with him during his murder sprees

If you enjoy feeding on bodies, he wants to be there to watch

Everything about it turns him on to be honest

Michael Myers

Probably the most neutral of the slashers

He kinda just lets you do your own thing for a while

Is not too sure about you feeding off of him at first, but he secretly loves it now

He thinks your spells are pretty cool too, but he just doesn't show it much

Will definitely take advantage of your powers though if he is having trouble with a victim

He hates asking though since he very much wants to do everything himself

You insist on healing him whenever he is injured even against his objections

As long as you don't intervene too much with his killings, he lets you do whatever for the most part

Just don't kill his target first

Jason Voorhees

Will definitely supply you with enough blood to last a lifetime

He's very giving with everything

You're hungry? He's sure he can find a lost soul in the woods

Need a certain plant for a spell? He'll keep an eye out for it while he wanders around

Likes to sit with you while you learn new spells and listen to you explain everything you're doing

Honestly, you being a hybrid makes him feel more comfortable

He knows that you can take care of yourself while he's gone

And you living within nature where people and animals pass through is perfect

Unlimited food and seclusion to work on your magic is exactly what you want

It's a win win all around

Thomas Hewitt

When he first learns about what you were, he was honestly kinda confused

He had heard of witches, and he had heard of vampires

But only through a fictional sense

And even then, he didn't know that someone could be both

Would need you to sit down and explain everything to him

The whole family is supportive of your taste in food (clearly)

They just use the meat, so they're happy to give you all the blood first before going to work

They're a bit iffy about your spells and powers though

Satanic spells would be a hard no in their books

As long as you use your magic outside of their home, then they all couldn't care less on you being a hybrid

Bubba Sawyer

You eat people? Cool, same.

But the witchcraft thing is going to take some getting used to

He grew up being told that all forms of witchcraft are evil

So you'll need to sit him down and explain everything you do

Has a weird fascination with watching you drink blood

The first time you casted a spell in front of him, he jumped

But just like a little kid in a toy store, he was quick to show his curiosity and want to see more of your spells

Slowly grows to love it

He has never met anyone supernatural before, so having you around is like living in a movie every day

Will go out with you to pick plants and herbs

May even help you set up a little garden out back

He has quite the green thumb

Brahms Heelshire

His family was pretty religious growing up, so the witchy part is pretty concerning to him at first

The vampire thing is also a bit annoying

He wants to be able to sit down and eat a normal dinner with you every night

But your diet is very particular

Living in the middle of nowhere is nice since you can go out and find plenty of animals to eat if needed

But the lack of people and Brahms never wanting to leave the house makes it difficult for you at times

You probably have to venture outside alone a lot which he doesn't like

But when at home, he grows to appreciate your spells more

The home is clean in a snap, his food is ready in just a second

Definitely becomes even lazier and wants you to do everything for him

He's still a child at heart after all

Norman Bates

He's honestly a little scared of you at first

Vampires and witches are in every evil tale, and he grew up correlating them with monsters

But he cares about you too much to let you go completely

Prefers for you to drink blood outside of the home

But if there happens to be a body left in one of the motel rooms, he's fine with you venturing in there and doing what you need

He just doesn't want to see it

You've tried using your powers to help clean the motels rooms, but he honestly prefers to do it the old fashioned way

Avoids telling his mother about you being a hybrid

He knows it will just be her screaming in his head every day if he does

He does show quite an interest in the different plants and herbs you collect however

Billy Loomis

Doesn't really believe you at first

"Prove it"

When your fangs pop out and your spell is cast, he is quick to widen his eyes

"Do it again"

Has a thing for you feeding on him

He finds it quite pleasurable honestly and would rather keep the bite mark than have you heal it up

Likes to join you outside at night and hold you while you conjure up spells

May want you to join him and Stu during their sprees to help them out from time to time

Invites you inside whenever they're done with all their victims so you can eat

Lays in bed with you at night and watches you use your magic to make pretty light shows on the ceiling

Thinks it's sexy

Stu Macher

Also needs you to prove it to him

Gets the biggest grin on his face once you do

"That's hot"

Likes watching you feed from his arm

Wants you to go to every killing spree with him and Billy

If you can't, he brings back a couple containers of blood for you

Watches supernatural films with you and constantly asks if each scene is realistic

"Can witches do that?" "No, that's clearly fake, Stu"

Wants you to use your powers to pull pranks on people in public

Also wants you to use your powers to help him steal things from the store

Buys you cute crystals for your room

Asks you to conjure up a puppy on a daily basis

Eric Draven

Loves the aesthetic of it all

The candles, plants, night time adventures, everything

If you're hungry, Eric may beat up a bad guy and let you finish the job

Just don't kill anyone innocent (or cats)

Doesn't mind if you feed from him

Kinda finds it romantic and always holds you close to him, rubbing his hand down your hair

Likes to see the spells you can cast

The ideal night for you two is sitting out on the roof together, him playing guitar and watching you try out new spells and casting your magic

Likes when you use your powers to send him little love messages in the night while he's gone

Enjoys laying in bed with you and watching you create little images on the wall

[larluce]

Merlin as Arthur's familiar/Arthur's shapeshifter falcon AU

@dsabian , @theplatanitosqueal , @stressed-but-chill , @gregre369 , @chaosofbelievers , @thelordofabsolutelynothing , @another-tblr-fangirl , @aceauthorcatqueen , @smileytrinity , @tiny-and-witchy , @wako-weirdo , @a-very-tired-ravenclaw , @schiwalkers-ineffability , @natsu2501malo , @dearfuturelyn , @thedollopheadofcamelot , @yougottobekittenme , @your-local-asylum-escapee , @theroundbartable , @alo-ween , @orliththedragon We are back to the present.

LINK TO THE OTHER PARTS: PART 1 , PART 2 , PART 3 , PART 4 , PART 5 , PART 6 , PART 7 , PART 8 , PART 9 , PART 10 , PART 11 , PART 12 (You're here) , PART 13

In Arthur's chambers. Arthur And Merlin snuggling in bed while Arthur reads a book to his chicks.

Arthur: And the princess and the knight lived happily ever after.

Brave: (on Merlin's shoulder) I wanna be a Knight! 😄 (Makes fighting movements)

Rain: (on Arthur's shoulder) I wanna be a Princess! 🤩 (Makes dancing movements like she is wearing a dress)

Merlin: My chicks, you are a birds, you can't-

Arthur: You can be whatever you want, babies.

Chicks: Yay! 😄😊😄😊😄

Merlin: (glares at Arthur)

Arthur: What?

Uther: (Knocks the door from outside) Arthur?

Merlin: (changes to bird form)

Uther: (enters) Son, we need to... (Looks Arthur is holding a book and has 2 chicks on his shoulders, 1 on his lap and the rest on the bed) talk.

Chicks: (stay silent immediately like Merlin taught them cause old meany human is scary and they were told old meany human gets rid of misbehaved falcons)

Arthur: (like nothing is out of the ordinary) What is it?

Uther: Are you reading to the birds?

Arthur: It helps them sleep.

Uther: They could poop your bed!

Arthur: Oh, they don't do that anymore. They use their potty.

Uther: Their what?

Wary: (on Arthur's shoulder, chirps very quietly) Poop, poop 🥺.

Arthur: (puts Wary and Rain on his lap and pulls out a little potty from under the bed with a bird engraved in it) Here.

Wary: (jumps moving his wings to the edge of the potty and poops inside) 😊

Arthur: (to Uther) See? They are very clean.

Uther: It's... quite impressive, I suppose. But you are humanizing these animals too much.

Arthur: I am not! (puts his chicks in the nest to sleep, covering them with a blanket)

Uther: You read them to sleep, you put blankets on their nest-

Arthur: Just one blanket and it's to keep them warn.

Uther: -and you barely leave your chambers now. You only spend time with them.

Arthur: (stands up holding the nest and looks lovingly at his babies) I just... don't want to miss on any moment of their childhood.

Uther: (snaps) Childhood? THEY ARE NOT CHILDREN! THEY ARE FUCKING ANIMALS! 😡

Chicks: (chirp a little in the nest without being able to help it, very scared, though Guardian still puts himself infront of his siblings, protective)🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

Merlin: (flies to the nest protecting his chicks and kills Uther with his eyes)

Arthur: Father, please lower your voice. You're scaring them and Merlin might attack you if he considers you a threat.

Uther: (about to yell again, but remembers Merlin took some witch's eyes out so he takes a deep breath to compose himself and lowers his voice) What I'm trying to say is that you've been cooped up with these birds for too long. You're neglecting your duties.

Arthur: (puts the nest with Merlin and his chicks on top of the wardrove) But I've been to every reunion and done every report you asked.

Uther: But you don't go on quests anymore.

Arthur: There hasn't been one.

Uther: Well, now there is. (Gives Arthur a parchment) There have been riots in the villages near the citadel. It could be just some vandals, but just in case is something more serious you must go to enssure and calm the citizens.

Arthur: But, my chicks-

Uther: Will be fine. You have hundreds of servants at your disposal. I'm sure you can leave them for a couple of days.

Arthur: I don't trust the servants.

Uther: Well that's a shame, because you are going either way. It's an order.

Arthur: (sighs) Yes, father.

Uther: (leaves)

Merlin: (flies next to Arthur and changes back to his human form)

Arthur: Are they still awake?

Merlin: No, I managed to make them sleep. They'll probably have nightmares with Uther though.

Arthur: Well, you heard my father. I have to leave the castle for a couple of days, so you'll have to look after the chicks alone.

Merlin: Oh, I'm not staying. I'm coming with you.

Arthur: What?!

Merlin: You think I'm going to let go into danger all by yourself?

Arthur: Is not a dangerous quest, just a visit to the neighboring villages.

Merlin: Where riots are taking place. What if some bandid or raider tries to kill you? Or an evil sorcerer? Or some magical creature? I need to be there to protect you!

Arthur: Now you are overreacting.

Merlin: Really? When does any of your quests has ever no ended up with someone or something trying to kill you?

Arthur: ...

Merlin: (crosses his arms and lifts an eyebrow)

Arthur: I'm the best knight in Camelot and I'll bring a cavalry with me. I'll be fine.

Merlin: Yeah, sure 😒. I'm coming with you.

Arthur: Merlin, one of us has to stay with the chicks. Or are you really going to let some strangers look after them?

Merlin: Of course not. We'll bring them with us.

Arthur: WHAT?!😨 Are you mad?!😠 We can't bring them to the quest. It's too dangerous!

Merlin: You just said it wasn't dangerous.

Arthur: For them it's dangerous!😡 They are too small still!

Merlin: They are almost my bird size now!

Arthur: But they don't know how to fly and you have magic to protect yourself, they don't. Nature is dangerous, there are all kind of predators outside. You should be very aware of this. One broke your wing and Brownie was killed by one of those!

Merlin: Yes, nature is dangerous. But guess what? Brownie would've raise them in nature! Because that's where they are supposed to be living!😡

Arthur and Merlin open their eyes wide when they realise they raised their voices while arguing and turn to the chicks quickly, scared that they woke them by accident with their outburst. Luckyly they're still asleep so they sigh in relief.

Arthur: (calmer and in more quiet voice) What do you mean by that?

Merlin: (calmer and in a more quiet voice too) I hate to say this, but Uther is right, you're giving the chicks a human treatment. And I understand why you do it. You want to show them that you see them as equal and you are caring for them in the only way you know. But they are not human, they are falcons and falcons don't have potties or blankets in nature. Falcons don't know what "Knight" or "Princess" mean. There's no chirp for those words in falcon vocabulary. Our chicks made them up! They shouldn't be able to do that. They shouldn't be able to understand english at all!

Arthur: And that's bad because...?

Merlin: They're going to fly and leave the nest soon. How will they adapt to nature if they never go outside these 4 walls? How will they be able to socialize with other merlins if they're basically creating their own language?

Arthur: I get your point, but they will be fine. If you want them to have their glimpse of nature so much, we can take them to the garden one of these days. But I won't take the chicks on this quest.

Merlin: (sighs) Fine, but I'm still going with you.

Arthur: Who will take care of our chicks then?

The next day. In Morgana's chambers. Merlin and Arthur talking to Morgana and Gwen, while the chicks are playing in their auntie's bed.

Arthur: and Rain likes her bird in little pieces. You don't have to take out the bones, but make sure they don't have sharp parts-

Merlin: For the love of-Just make sure the prey is clean and fresh. They know how to tear it themselfs.

Morgana: Water and birds 3 times a day. Got it.

Arthur: (gives Gwen 3 books) Their favourite tales. (Gives her 2 potties) Their potties. (Gives her a little blanket) Their blanket. You have to-

Gwen: Read them to sleep, change one potty for the other when it needs to be washed and cover the chicks at night. Am I right?

Arthur: (smiles) Exactly.

Merlin: Don't put the nest so close to the floor.

Arthur: But not too high either.

Merlin: You can show them the view from the window. They love that.

Arthur: But just with supervision. Don't let them near the window alone.

Merlin: But more importantly.

Arthur: And over all things.

Arthur and Merlin: (at the same time) Always. Close. The door.

Morgana and Gwen: (confused) ... What?

Merlin: They'll run around the place at any given chance.

Arthur: Which is fine, only and just only if they don't leave this room.

Morgana: We will, but is such precaution really necessary? They don't know how to fly yet and their legs are pretty small. How far can they go?

Arthur: Very far.

Merlin: I'll just tell you this. I'm part falcon, Which means my eyesight is 8 times better than a human's. I can spot a prey from more than a mile away. And yet Blizzard escaped my sight when he got lost at the feast. So don't understimate them, Morgana. Close. The. Door.

Rain: (on a pillow, chirps loudly) Help! Help!

Morgana: (Runs fast to her bed, worried) What is it Rain? Are you okay?

Arthur: Oh, don't worry. She's just playing.

Morgana: Playing? Playing what?

Merlin: They call it "The Princess' rescue".

Blizzard: (puts himself infront of Rain standing up high, stretching his wings, and makes a raw chirp)

Guardian and Brave: (pretend they are dodging something and "attack" Blizzard)

Merlin: Rain is the Princess, Blizzard the dragon that holds her capture and Guardian and Brave the knights that come to her rescue.

Wary: (makes himself a ball and stays still)

Morgana: (to Wary) And what are you supposed to be?

Wary: I'm a rock 😊.

Morgana: ...

Guardian: (breaks character) He doesn't like fighting and we offer him to be the Princess once but he didn't want to.

Brave: (uses Wary to evade the dragon's attack)

Guardian: And it's perfect for hiding.

Brave: Guardian, I need help!

Guardian: Coming! (Goes back to character to help Brave) Die, Dragon! 😠 (stacks Blizzard from behind)

Gwen: (Looks at Morgana strangely)

Morgana: (turns to Gwen) What?

Gwen: You can really communicate with birds? I thought you were just pretending to make the chicks more comfortable.

Morgana: Oh, no. I did a translation spell on Arthur and then Merlin did the same spell on me. So now we both can understand merlin language.

Gwen: That's so cool! 😃

Morgana: Want me to do the spell on you too? 😏

Gwen: (thoughtful) Hmmm... I don't know. I feel like this is more a family thing and I know myself. I'll probably end up talking with them constantly and people'll think I'm insane.

Morgana: (holds her hand and looks at her fondly, smiling) Well, if you ever want to, you can ask me.

Gwen: (smiles back and blushes a little)

Arthur and Merlin: ...

Arthur: Well, we're leaving.

Merlin: (turns to bird form and flies to his chicks) My chicks, Mama and Papa must leave now. Be good falcons and always listen to auntie Morgana and Gwen.

Chicks: (stop playing and go to Merlin) Yes, Mama. 😊

Merlin: (Gives them each one a kiss on the head with his beak)

Arthur: (picks up Rain) Goodbye, my baby girl. (Touches Rain's beak with his nose fondly, kisses her head and puts her back on the bed gently. Then picks up Wary) Goodbye, little bean. (Touches Wary's beak with his nose and kisses his head too. Puts him back on the bed and picks up Blizzard) Goodbye, little demon. (Points a finger at him warnly) And behave.

Blizzard: (pecks Arthur's finger defiantly, like saying "You can't tell me what to do")

Arthur: (rolls his eyes and puts him back. Then picks up Brave) Goodbye, Brave. (Shakes the feathers of his head fondly and puts him back on the bed. Then picks up Guardian) Goodbye, Guardian. I know you'll keep them in place.

Guardian: (brings his little wing to his head like a soldier)

Arthur: (makes the gesture too laughing a little and puts him back on the bed. Then speaks to all of them) We'll be back as soon as we can, okay, babies? I love you.

Chicks: Bye, Papa. Love you too. 😊

Merlin: (flies to Arthur's shoulder)

Morgana: (hugs Arthur and pats Merlin's head goodbye) Take care.

Arthur: We will.

Gwen: (bows both Arthur and Merlin) Have a good journey. Your chicks are in good hands.

Arthur: (smiles) Thank you. (gives a last look to his chicks and finally leaves with Merlin)

Morgana: Wow, than went better than I expected.

Gwen: What do you mean?

Morgana: Well, with how spoiled they are, I though the chicks would start crying and begging them not to go.

Guardian: We are big chicks.

Blizzard: Yeah, we don't cry.

Brave: Crying is for hatchlings.

Rain: And is not the first time Papa and Mama leave us with you, anyways.

Morgana: (impressed) It's true. It's nice to see you're more mature now. (To Gwen) They say they are big chicks and won't cry just because their parents left for three days.

Gwen: Awww. See? Taking care of them won't be so hard. (Picks up Brave) Who is a good baby? You are! 🤗

Brave: I'm not a baby 😠. I'm a big chick.

Gwen: You're so cute! 🥰

Brave: NO! I'm a predator! Fear me! 😤

Morgana: (laughs)

Time skip. At night. Morgana and Gwen taking the chicks to bed.

Gwen: (carrying the books) Which one should we read them?

Morgana: (On bed with the nest with the chicks on her lap) Let me ask them. (To the chicks) Which tale would your prefer tonight, big chicks? "The princess and the frog" or-

Rain: Where are Mama and Papa?

Morgana: (confused) In their quest. Outside.

Rain: But they are too late!

Guardian: Yeah, they are always here by story time. What if something happened to them?

Brave: A Predator! 😨

Blizzard: Mama and Papa were eaten by a predator?! 😱

Wary: Mama and Papa are dead! 😭

Morgana: No! Of course not! Mama and Papa are fine. Didn't they tell You they were going to be out for three days?

Rain: Yeah, Mama and Papa are always out for three something.

Morgana: (confused) Three something?

Wary: (still crying) Three hours, three minutes, three seconds. 😭

Rain: Yeah, that. I don't know what the difference is.

Morgana: (pales) Oh, gods.

Gwen: What is it? What did they say?

Morgana: They don't know how much time a day is. That's why they were so chill before. They thought their parents were going to be back in three hours at most!

Gwen: Oh, shit.

Rain: I want Mama and Papa! 😭

Wary: I don't want Mama and Papa to be dead! 😭

Brave: Bring Mama and Papa! 😭

Blizzard: I'll revenge Mama and Papa's death! 😭

Guardian: Stop saying Mama and Papa are dead! They are not dead! 😭

Morgana: Exactly. Mama and Papa are not dead. They are just going to be outside longer than usual. Please, don't cry. You are big chicks, remember?

Chicks: (keep crying) 😭😭😭😭😭

Gwen: (Gives Morgana a book) Maybe if you start reading them they'll calm down.

Morgana: Yes! Who wants to hear a story? 🤗

Chicks: (Stop crying for moment, though they are still sad) Me 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺.

Morgana: (Opens the book and starts reading) Once upon a time-

Rain: That's not how Papa does it! 😭

Blizzard: I can't see the pictures from here! 😭

Wary: I want Papa's shoulder! 😭

Brave: I want Mama's shoulder! 😭

Guardian: I'm a big chick, I'm a big chick! 😭

Morgana: (Gives a long sigh) This is going to be a long night.

...

What do you think is going to happen next? Are the chick going to get into trouble? 👀

[ascendedice]

🕯️˖*°࿐ Witchy tips! #1 - Energy Hygiene

It's essential for every witch to do energy hygiene! This overall means cleansing and protecting your space and your own energy, as well as grounding yourself before and after magick.

"When to cleanse?"

It's entirely up to you, but here are the main factors I follow:

When your space/room/house feels weird - just cleanse it.

Every time I feel my surroundings are negative, I just cleanse them. It's recommended to do it at least once a month, but of course if you feel anything building up before that trust your intuition and cleanse.

When you are feeling drained, stressed or anything negative really.

It's still good to frequently cleanse your own energy. Remember - you can cleanse yourself when going to the shower/bathtub. It's about intention.

Before and after spell work.

It's recommended to cleanse your space before and after doing spell work, so random energies don't influence your spell. It's like using a dish - you have to clean it before re-using it.

Just trust your intuition - if you feel like you need to do something, do it.

"How to cleanse?"

There are a lot of ways to cleanse and maintain your space. Some of the ones I commonly use are:

Sound cleansing -

If you have a bell - ring it around your space with the intention of cleansing the energy around. You can also clap your hands or even knock on your tools.

Smoke cleansing -

Smoke cleansing with incense is another good way to cleanse. Just let the smoke run through the space or the tool you want to cleanse.

important: burning any kind of sage is a CLOSED PRACTICE.

Water cleansing -

I mostly use that way to cleanse myself or my crystals. Let the water run through the object you want to cleanse or yourself - it will work.

Subliminals -

Sometimes when you're unable to cleanse yourself in any of the ways above, you can always go on youtube and search for an energy cleansing subliminal. 2-5 minutes of listening would be enough!

"When should I ground myself?"

Grounding yourself is an important thing, especially when doing magick. It's very de-realizing to do any kind of magick due to how surreal it feels. That of course, is different for all people BUT it's really recommended to do some sort grounding.

Before and after any kind of magick -

No matter if it's spell work, cleansing, tarot or any form of witchcraft really, you should ground yourself before and after doing so to avoid derealization and to be able to focus on your practice.

When feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Grounding and cleansing yourself are both really important self-care practices. Make sure to do that

"How can I ground myself?"

Grounding is a practice that involves connecting with the earth's energy to stabilize and balance your own energy. It is a means to anchor yourself back to the physical world and release excess or negative energy. To ground yourself:

Sit in a comfortable position with your feet touching the ground, start relaxing and breathing in.

Imagine a cord or a root extending deep in the earth.

Visualize, breathe in the new energy.

This can be done for 30 seconds, or even 10 minutes. Do what you're comfortable with.

REMEMBER - this is just a random grounding method that I use myself. You can always research and find countless ways to do it.

Thanks for reading, take care of yourself! 111 222 333

[hauntinglesbian]

rewatching episode 3 of AAA (cause for some reason it's been unwatched on my account even though I did watch it!) and just an interesting study on Agatha:

(disney isn't letting me screencap so I'll just have to do quotes sadly....)

it's interesting retrospectively watching this and you can tell Agatha is plotting, like what does she say to the rest of the coven cause she's literally making it up as she goes. Does she know it's Billy yet?

Billy is manifesting this whilst they're thinking about what form of trials they are up against e.g. when Alice says trials, Billy's brain immediately thinks of trials. Oh Billy, little do you know...

I do not see Kathryn, only Agatha, but also impressive of Agatha to make it up on the way.

when Agatha says 'safe as kittens' and puts her hands up like that, i feel like that's soft agatha <3

why is agatha putting her hand on her chest when they go into the house? Kathryn tell me your acting choices !

huge tiny lies = big little lies

oh billy that's not true, he died cause he wasn't supposed to live long.....

I feel like this agatha and agatha revealed is very different?

Going to delete my disneyplus history so I can restart watching again lol.

Do I feel bad about Sharon in this episode, yeah I do, but also Agatha looks really beautiful as always and also the scheming noise sounds like something from a reality tv show lol - like real housewives of beverley hills or something

Aww agatha in the background sitting she lost looks like she's having fun

okay so you know how she refuses for teen to drink the wine, do you think at first she thinks it's nicky?

also Agatha's hands <3 - the nails okay she's got very witchy hands lol

poor lilia <3, she's not well, she also didn't deserve to go.....

the baby scene is odd cause it's like, not true? Why is she whimpering? she did not trade her bébé for the darkhold :/

okay the parallel between Jen pushing Lilia out of the way to actually helping her, character growth!

Agatha so selfish lol

It's so weird to rewatch when having already watched it if you know what I mean

just rewatched this exact episode right now with the bestie @ragnarockz cause they are a whore for the Agatha milf fit in the first trial (can’t blame them though 👀)

So funny when she’s coming up with shit she’s like “1 trial for each skill” and then gives a little look like hell yea I kinda cooked with that one ngl. Then they get in the house and she’s like “the road changes for the coven” and she’s like damn I’m good at this making shit up on the spot stuff. 😏

Love soft Agatha, that’s my baby girl right there! 💖 me when soft agatha:

I heard someone saying something about some sort of grounding technique when Agatha puts her hand on her chest. But I can’t remember the exacts words I’m sorry.

Idk if she think it’s Nicky, I feel like she explained she was unsure for a bit so could have been. But even if she didn’t think it was him I think she would have stopped him. Recently was talking about how in Wandavision she made pb & j sandwiches for the boys with chips on the side and that’s just the cutest thing ever. And you know why, because I think agatha is a milf first! Excuse me… slipped up there… I mean a mother first! Yea she’s bad, mean and even evil if you will but one thing she’s gonna do is be a good mom (while alive).

The nails kill me a bit. Like I don’t love them. But her fingers are going 100 miles a minute in this episode it’s insanely hot.

No one deserved to die and I miss them ALL OKAY GIVE THEM BACK TO ME. I want them all to be alive and happy 😭🥺💖

She didn’t trade her baby you’re right. Not sure why it would have made her so upset. I feel like I’m the worst person to come to cause I just be watching things. But maybe it just reminded her that this is what people think of her but she believes the truth is worse, so maybe it reminds her of the truth? I’m just a simple girl. I was not made for this kind of thing. Maybe anything Nicky makes her upset. Maybe she wishes she could have used the darkhold to bring him back but it never worked out. I don’t know much about that though.

Agatha is selfish but I love women’s rights and women’s wrongs so what can I say? I love the bad boys… right?

Yea when teen/billy says “so what do we do?” outside of the house and Agatha just locks eyes with him and just does the biggest smile….

[lena-in-a-red-dress]

Astrid x Lena - Autumn/Fall

I am listening to my fave fall/witchy playlist on spotify, and now I'm thinking about how Astrid might handle Lena discovering her witchy heritage.

It makes most sense to me that somewhere in the crisis era, Lena and Astrid dated but broke up (amicably) and are friendly but no longer together. They keep in touch, but their work keeps them from actually seeing each other post crisis.

Until post finale, when they bump into each other on the streets of Metropolis. Astrid is in town on business, and Lena is there for meetings in relation to her charitable foundation (or maybe finalizing her relinquishing/dissolving LuthorCorp). Except its technically Saturday, so while Astrid is her usual 5-star self, Lena is a little more... basic bitch-- comfy sneakers, cozy sweater, hair loose in its now customary waves. No red lipstick, no pencil skirt, no jimmy choos.

Astrid barely recognizes her, and in fact doesn't until Lena chirps a breathless "Oh! Astrid!"

At which point Astrid blinks, and the image of this pumpkin spice latte drinker resolves into Lena. To say she's surprised is an understatement.

"Lena??" Astrid scans her as she leans into a hug that is absolutely genuine, but turns into concern as she pulls back but doesn't release her grip on her ex-girlfriend's shoulders. "Is everything okay?"

"What? Yeah! Of course it is!" Lena's confusion is mitigated by the joy seeing Astrid after so long. "Better now, though! It's so great to see you!"

Now, Astrid is polite, but she also knows Lena, and cares about her. So she pushes just a little, to get some more information.

"You look... different," she says judiciously.

Only then does it click for Lena. She glances down at herself, then flushes sheepishly. "Oh. Yeah, ah... well. I've had a change in... circumstances?"

Astrid frowns. "Lena, you know you never have to ask for help from me, ever."

"Oh! No-- the money is still there. It's nothing like that." Lena huffs a little awkwardly, knowing how confusing she sounds. In the end, all she can really say is:

"Everything is fine. I promise. Better than fine." She gestures to the relatively uncharacteristic image of herself with a giggle. "This is deliberate, I promise."

Astrid still isn't sure what's going on, but Lena's responses contain no guile, and she's satisfied that, if nothing else, Lena is happy.

"Hey, uhm... would you-- want to catch up?" Lena asks nervously. "Tonight? Only if you have time--"

"I would love to," Astrid cuts her off gracefully, earnestly. She smiles. "I would love to. Ernesto's?"

Lena flashes her a demure smile. "You still remember my favorite..."

"Our favorite," Astrid reminds her. Oh, she knows what she's implying, and she's pleased that Lena doesn't push away from it. If anything, she leans towards it.

"Right. Our favorite." Her gaze heats when it meets Astrid's. "Our usual table then?"

"I shall accept no other," Astrid teases.

Lena giggles. "Okay, good. I'll see you at 7."

Their usual time.

"I look forward to it," Astrid promises.

As they part ways for the afternoon, Astrid can't help but pause and glance at Lena's departing form as it disappears amid the crowded street.

Even aside from the wardrobe change, Lena is different. She's always been confident, but now, it seems less... projected. Less a screen erected as a front and more... true. A settling into her own skin.

She sees that same quiet confidence at the restaurant later that night. Lena has exchanged her doc martens and knitted scarf for a silky gown that makes Astrid's mouth go dry, but it's the softness at her edges that truly catches Astrid's eye.

Where Lena once shone brilliantly, a sun to bright to look at directly, this Lena simply glows, an ember sitting warm and happy on the hearth.

During appetizers Astrid learns that Lena spent the day scouring the city for a book. A very specific book, it would seem. Rare and mysterious, if the way Lena repeatedly seems to stop herself short just before she begins to explain its nature or purpose in any greater detail.

It happens more than once, and beyond the search for the book as well. Certainly enough to pique Astrid's interest.

"Are you seeing anyone?"

Lena's question surprises Astrid. There's no edge to it, no judgement or resentment. Just open curiosity and the warmth of being ready to accept anyone who makes Astrid happy.

"No," Astrid returns truthfully. "I'm not."

Others in her social sphere usually react with sad deprecation-- Astrid is basically a spinster of a divorcee at this point. But Lena's eyes simply warm as her smile deepens.

"Then maybe I should count myself lucky," Lena murmurs, voice as silky as her dress.

Astrid returns the smile, reaching across the table to tangle her fingers with Lena's.

"Perhaps we're both lucky."

But when they head back to Astrid's hotel suite with one thing in mind... Astrid's attention can't help to wonder about the damn book. She should be halfway out of her mind with delirious delight, the way Lena is tracing patterns on Astrid's skin and the way Lena herself sits on Astrid's bare lap in nothing but her lace bra and panties.

But the mystery of their conversation early tugs too insistently at the back of Astrid's mind, and she pulls gently away, lifting her hands to cup Lena's cheeks in her palms.

"Lena, darling... what aren't you telling me?"

Lena freezes, a deer caught in the headlights. She moves rise, but Astrid tugs her back down.

"All night, you've been so enthusiastic, but just before you share the what and the why of what makes you happy, you stop yourself. Why?"

Lena swallows audibly. "I don't know if I have a good answer that won't scare you away."

Astrid scoffs. "Scare me...? Lena-- you are magic to me. You always have been. And if you think anything you can tell me will drive me off, then... you don't know me very well."

Lena tilts her head with a plaintive smile. "I'm afraid it may be the opposite. I'm... different. From the Lena you knew before."

Astrid leans forward to kiss her. The touch is sweet and soft and lingering.

"Then tell me," Astrid urges. "So I can learn to love you all over again."

Lena's nervous smile turns hopeful. Astrid watches the warring thoughts behind her lover's eyes, and sits waiting in the hopes the doubts would quiet enough for her to learn whatever new truths Lena may share.

In the end, she's rewarded with a soft sigh. "Okay," Lena breathes. "Just know that it's complicated, and I'm still figuring it out myself."

"Oh, god," Astrid groans. "Please don't tell me you've been straight all along..."

The comment pops Lena out of her nerves. She barks a laugh, giving Astrid's bare thight a light smack.

"No," Lena chuckles. "Nothing like that. But...."

Astrid nibbles at the hook. "But...?"

Lena smiles.

"It's funny that you mentioned magic."

[mintsbubbletea]

hiiiii! i was wondering if you could do a part two to mi ceilo fic it was so cute and i just love sero

𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝐌𝐢 𝐂𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝟐

Word Count: 2,300

Contains: Gender Neutral Reader, cursing, angst, blood, crying, fluff.

Proof read and Edited

A/N: Thank you for the request! and thanks for the being the first one teehee. Anyways I'm very witchy so I added my own herb medicine flare to it. also big thanks to @juixxyoyo for literally the whole fic idea <3.

Part 1

Since the moment Sero discovered your feelings for him and the effort you put into creating plants for him, he has been making more of an effort to spend time with you. He walks you to and from school, even though the dorms are nearby, just to have an excuse to be by your side. During lessons, his gaze is always fixed on you, as if the rest of the world doesn't exist. These small but significant moments have been happening for a week or two now, and it was only a matter of time before he asked you out. He loves taking you on dates that involve nature, knowing it's something you both enjoy. Whether it's going on a hayride to pick apples or visiting a museum filled with different plants, he always finds ways to remind you of him. He even took you to a tea party in a garden filled with butterflies and birds. But it wasn't just him coming up with dates. You took him to a petting zoo where you could feed the animals and enjoy each other's company. He particularly loved it when the birds landed on him, trying to get the seeds from his hands. All of these beautiful memories were captured on your digital camera.

As the school year progressed, you and Sero had been together for seven months. You had become close with his group of friends, as he couldn't keep the secret of your relationship any longer. He wanted to show everyone that he had an incredible person who loved him, and you supported each other through thick and thin. You felt the same way about him. Without him, you would still be that quiet person, solely focused on studying and worrying about grades. But now, you were living life to the fullest and had friends to share it with. You even formed a friendship with Jiro, a bond that no one expected but felt right when they saw the two of you together. When you weren't with Sero, you were with Jiro, listening to music, making mixtapes of your favorite songs, attending concerts, and creating music together. You were truly grateful for Sero and the positive impact he had on your life.

You found yourself in Sero's dorm as usual, lounging on his hammock with the scent of incense in the air. It was then that you noticed some of the plants were out of place. Frowning, you got up to investigate. "Ro?" you called out, catching his attention. "What happened to the plants?" you inquired, picking one up. "Some of them are missing," you noted as you gently stroked the succulent, gazing down at them. Sero quickly approached you. "Really?" he questioned, and you could sense that he was hiding something. "They all look the same to me, mi cielo," he reassured you with a smile. Despite wanting to press him further, you remained silent, aware of your tendency to overthink. You bit your lip before conceding, "Yeah, maybe I'm just overthinking." Sero placed a comforting hand on your shoulder before giving you a quick kiss on the lips. "Stop doubting yourself, it's your perspective," he remarked with a smile before returning to his bed. You nodded before settling back into the hammock, your emotions in turmoil. You tried to push them aside, but you couldn't ignore the absence of the plants from his desk. You recalled nurturing and tending to them, sighing as you gazed at your beloved plants.

Each time you visited, the plants seemed to disappear one by one. Did he grow tired of them? Were they too overwhelming for him? Did he no longer appreciate their presence? Countless thoughts raced through your mind, convincing you that he must have been discarding them and no longer cared for them. You knew you needed to address this with him, but the last time you brought it up, he dismissed it, leaving you hurt. As you sat on his bed, you noticed a small speck of dirt on the floor. Curiosity piqued, you stood up and followed the trail to its source. A gasp escaped your lips as you beheld the broken flower pot on the ground, with the flowers slightly bent. Your lips trembled as you empathized with the pain the plant must have felt. Sero quickly sprang to his feet upon hearing your gasp. "What's the matter?" he asked anxiously, checking if you were injured. You remained silent, fixated on the shattered pot. His gaze followed yours, his face turning pale as he understood your emotions. "Y/n, I'm so sorry-"

"Are you getting rid of them?" you questioned, desperately holding back your tears. You didn't want to break down in front of him because you two had never argued before, and you were trying your best not to cry. "What? No, I would never do that," he replied, watching you stand up. "Then why are the plants missing? I thought I was going crazy, but I know my babies well, and they're not here," you said, tears welling up in your eyes. Sero's mouth dropped open in shock at your accusation. "Mi Cielo, I understand you're upset, but I would never do that in a million years," he said, attempting to reach out and comfort you. You backed away from him, causing him to stop himself. "Then where are they?" you asked, finally letting the tears flow. Sero remained silent, not speaking up. You nodded and bent down to pick up the flowers. "Y/n, it's not what you think. Do you really believe I would do that to you?" he asked, growing a bit frustrated because you were accusing him without any evidence. "I want to believe you, but this one really hurt," you said, showing him the injured flower. "Did you accidentally knock it over? Are you being careless with them?" you questioned. Sero let out a soft scoff. "Y/n, I'm trying not to get upset here. I didn't throw them out, and I wasn't careless. Why would you say that?" he asked, feeling hurt.

You screamed, "I have no idea!" but not directed at him. "I don't know," you whispered, tears streaming down your face. You reached out to touch the flower, attempting to help, but nothing seemed to work. Placing the plant on his desk, you bent down to pick up the pot, only to accidentally cut yourself due to your blurred vision from crying. Wincing in pain, you dropped the pot. "Y/n, you're bleeding," Sero exclaimed, taking hold of your hand. "No, don't touch me," you replied, looking at him with overwhelming emotions. When it came to your plants, your mind became fuzzy, and you were not in the right frame of mind. "Y/n," he said, looking hurt. "I'm sorry," you mumbled before leaving the room, your bloody hand leaving Sero feeling confused, frustrated, and hurt.

The weekend dragged on slowly. You and Sero had not spoken since the argument, as he gave you space to sort through your thoughts. By Monday, you expected him to reach out, but there was no word from him, and he was absent from class, which was unusual. Sniffling, you knocked on Jiro's door. She opened it, seeing you in tears. "Y/n," she said sadly, ushering you inside. "What's the matter?" she inquired. "I think he's upset with me," you confessed. Jiro gazed at you, placing a comforting hand on your shoulder. "Why do you think that?" she probed. "He hasn't replied to my messages, and he always does, no matter what. Plus, he didn't show up to school today."

Jiro let out a sigh, concern etched on her face. "Listen, I'm your best friend, and I'm saying this because I care about you. Crying won't solve anything, it'll only make the situation worse," she said, gently wiping away your tears. "I love you, but instead of crying, use that energy to go talk to him. Remember, you're not the only one hurting here," she added, bringing you back to reality.

You bit your lip, feeling a pang of guilt. "I didn't even consider that. I've been blaming him without giving him a chance to explain. I need to go talk to him," you admitted, remorseful. With a grateful smile, you thanked Jiro before she pulled you into a comforting hug. "You're welcome. That's what friends are for, to keep you from doing something foolish," she reassured you.

With newfound determination, you made your way to his dorm and stood in front of his door. Gently knocking, you waited for a response. When you didn't hear anything, you knocked a little harder. "Sero?" you called out, pressing your ear against the door to listen. After a moment of silence, you heard some movement before a heavy sigh. "I'm sorry. I overreacted the other day and blamed you without giving you a chance to speak. Can I come in?" you asked, hoping for a positive response.

There was a brief pause before you heard a faint voice say, "Come in." Opening the door, you were met with the sight of Sero lying in bed, covered in blankets, his eyes closed and his breathing labored. Beads of sweat rolled down his forehead, indicating his distress.

You shut the door quietly, hurrying over to his bedside and gently placing your hand on his forehead. "Sero," you whispered, unaware that he had been n bed with illness all this time. "You have a fever," you stated, running your hand across his face to confirm. Sero let out a weak chuckle. "I'm fine," he murmured, opening his eyes. You shook your head, looking at him with concern. "You're far from fine. You've practically been wasting away in bed!" you exclaimed. "I didn't want to bother you. You were still mad at me," he admitted, gripping your hand. "Forget about that. You're sick and you didn't tell me. I don't care if I was upset, I should have been here to take care of you," you said, cupping his face and leaning in closer. "I'm so sorry, Sero," you whispered, planting a gentle kiss on his lips. "You'll get sick if you kiss me," he weakly protested. "You wouldn't be sick if you had told me earlier so I could have helped you," you replied with a smile, kissing him once more. "I'll be right back," you said, heading back to your dorm to gather some supplies. Returning to his room, you set down a cloth, some herbs, and medicine.

You prepared a special herbal tea, a recipe passed down in your family. They claimed it could cure anything, from pain to pregnancy, flu to cramps, headaches to even your dad's broken bone. "Drink this, babe," you said, helping Sero sit up against the wall. He groaned softly, catching a whiff of the herbs. "Is this the family tea?" he asked, recognizing the scent. You nodded, bringing the cup to his lips. "Yes, I made it with extra love so you'll be back on your feet in no time," you teased, watching as he took a few sips and closed his eyes, savoring the taste. You couldn't help but smile as you held the cup, then reached for the cloth, gently placing it on his forehead to help alleviate his fever.

Hours went by before Sero started feeling better, sleeping peacefully through the night with you beside him, waking up each time he moved just to make sure he was okay. The next day, he still didn't go to school, and you felt guilty for leaving him, but you made sure to check on him whenever you had a break. After school, you hurried to his dorm when he messaged you about an emergency. "What's the matter? Did you throw up? Are you feeling worse?" you inquired as he sat on the bed in sweats and a hoodie. You examined his face, and he chuckled while grabbing your wrist. "I'm okay, mi cielo," he chuckled. "Then why did you text me about an emergency?" you asked, tilting your head.

"I wanted to show you something," he replied before getting up and taking your hands, leading you out of the dorm. "Where are we going?" you questioned as you both left the campus. "Just wait," he said, smiling and squeezing your hand. After a few minutes of walking, you arrived at a vast field with a large greenhouse. You looked around, smiling at the beautiful scenery, still unsure of what was happening. "Mi cielo," Sero began, capturing your attention. "You noticed my plants were missing because I was moving them into the greenhouse. Well, your greenhouse," he said with a smile. "Mine?" you gasped, opening your mouth in surprise. "You got me a greenhouse? This huge one?" you asked, beaming with joy. He nodded. "Yes, this is yours. There are multiple units with different temperatures so you can grow various kinds of plants."

Your lips trembled as you glanced around, envisioning the countless hours you would spend in this place. "How? With what money?" you inquired. Sero grinned and then turned to the group waiting in the distance. "Momo's family owns this land, and they were kind enough to let us have it, along with the greenhouse. I had some assistance in building it," he explained, gesturing towards the group, which consisted of Class 1-A and half of Class 1-B, as they began walking towards you. You looked at him and embraced Sero tightly. "You built this for me?" you asked, holding him close. He wrapped his arms around you and nodded. "Of course I did. So when you're not busy being a hero, you can come here and just be yourself," he whispered to you.

"Thank you. Just thank you," you smiled, before gently kissing his lips. "Por nada Mi Cielo

[en-geneisaxx]

Pairings: Suna x Y/n

Genre: fluff, angst, romance

𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐫𝐞𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝/𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐞

There are many moments that I enjoyed with Y/n. An example of this would be our late-night walks and talks.

I loved our family’s ‘daily special time’ – it was when we would distance ourselves from the rest of society and have some quality time together, staying in each other’s embrace. Rina, our daughter, would always sleep through them, however, because it always happened at night, once we lived out our day. 

We would walk, Y/n clinging onto my arm as I pushed sleeping Rina in her pushchair, making our way to Y/n’s favourite bench that had a view of the river, which separated the bustling city from where we were, just a little park that had blooming flowers and little lights that illuminate the area. Just us three, no phones -which Y/n cutely scolded me for- and talk our minds out.

“You know, I’m quite shocked, Rin,” She starts, looking up at the night sky. I raise my eyebrows, wanting to hear more, “You’re such an amazing father, when I always thought I had to do all the work because you always had to be babied.” She teased, reminding me on how I would act like a whiny child in an adult’s body before she got pregnant. Then, she bursts out into laughter.

“What?” I ask, expecting another one of her teases. She tightly purses her lips to contain any witchy-laughter before deeply exhaling, “Your mum, she popped in to tell me…” 

“Please hurry up, I’m hating the suspense.”

“She told me…ABOUT WHEN YOU SHAT IN YOUR FRIEND’S CAT’S LITTER BOX.” She wheezes, tightly grabbing her chest to stop her laughter. “Oh, Rin, you were so funny when you were younger.” 

I loved seeing her laugh, how she would brighten up my world even on the darkest of nights. That warm feeling whenever I was with her, it made me feel safe. 

“You know, you’re quite a sadist,” I complained, “just like your brother.” 

She happily sighs, “Yeah, probably got it from him. That being said, I want to see Tsukishima soon.” 

We held onto each other in a comfortable silence until my phone went off, “Time to go, darling.” She nodded, bending down to give Rina a kiss as we made our way back to the hospital.

“Baby, come here.” She commands me, patting on the spare space on her bed. Rina was on the other side, drinking her milk from the bottle. I wanted to hear more of her voice, so I asked her to sing a song.

“How about the one we would always sing?” She suggested. I think intently, “I might cry though.” She strokes my head before we both start singing the song.

“Baby, don’t you think we should cut out the last part? No one’s dying.” 

“Rin, let’s play a game.” She says, cupping both hands on my cheeks, “Let’s do a ‘no interactions whatsoever for 24 hours’, ok?” 

“No, that’s too hard.” I pout, holding her closer and tighter, making sure I don’t rip out any of the needles that pierced her lovely skin. 

“C’mon, love. You can do it, I know you will.” She encourages, but I can see tears forming in her eyes that I love to stare in.

“Why are you telling me to do it when you look like you’re about to cry?” I chuckle, kissing her face repeatedly, smothering her in my kisses and saliva. 

“It’s gonna be hard for me too,” Her voice breaks, and she starts bawling in front of me. I don’t want to, I hate it, so why would she ask me to? 

“I…you sure?” 

“Don’t you trust me?” She still manages a smile despite her wet face. 

“Alright, fine. Just so you know, I would rather you lose than win.” I joke, getting out of the bed and putting Rina in her pushchair. She laughs, wiping away her tears before telling me words I want to hear again and again.

“I love you.” 

It was certainly hard; no interactions? Geez, she must be using my obsessiveness with her as an advantage. I scoff at the thought, “Sadist”. But, I loved her for who she was, so I guess I must’ve liked that side of her too. It was weird, no being around my sunshine, but I trust her, so I endured through until the next day.

I hum gleefully, Rina cackling at the silly faces I made while we walked through the hospital. I was ready to greet my wife happily once again, until I entered her room…

“Hey,” Tsukishima said, sitting down next to me on the bench. I asked my mum to look after Rina, just so me, Tsuki and my wife could spend time together.

“You said Y/n wanted to meet me, but where is she?” He looks around, twisting and turning on the bench. I give a gentle smile.

“Pft, don’t look around,” I say, “look up.” He looks at me with a bewildered look as if you ask are you insane? The realisation hits him as he looks at me in shock.

I wish I could tell you about Y/n’s reaction that day.

I wish I could tell you more beautiful moments.

I wish I could tell you that we lived happily ever after.

But, life is cruel. Unfortunately, that illness she’s desperately fought against knocked her out forever.

Now, she is my sleeping beauty that not even my kiss would awake.

I hope that I was your prince, Y/n. I hope you had no regrets in loving me as I had none with you. I thought I had lost my world, but she is still here, must it be through a meaningful letter, pixelated figures of her, recordings of her siren voice or her just simply smiling down upon us.

I take a read of Y/n’s last words to me:

“Well done, baby! I knew you could do it. Now, do it everyday, ok? You’re not alone, just to let you know. I’ll always be here with you, in whatever form I may be. Don’t give up just because I won’t wake up. If you’re ever in need of me, just take a read. I know, I know, it’s quite long, but I figured you would actually like that.

I love you, Rintaro. I’m so happy I got to be Mrs. Suna.

Yours only,

Suna Y/n.”

There were many papers attached, which will probably take hours to read. But, indeed, I liked that, and am looking forward to going home.

I chuckle, “Y/n, if you’re listening, I love you, too.” Seeing how the moon is shining brightly tonight I wish, “I hope you’re happy up there, love.

Forever yours,

Suna Rinatro.”

Tagging: @pockettwinzz @dr0wnme0ut @diorsyun @dollyyun @jaylaxies @heeslomll @sungvrhs @potatohoon @reesareads @emi-en @velvetkisscs @slickchickchocolatier

[anxiousnerdwritings]

I think what Jamie would like about Witchy!Darling is that there’s nothing they hide about themselves. They don’t have any ulterior motive or hidden agendas. Darling is just darling. The direct contrast of Jamie having to be perfect his entire life for everyone VS Witchy!Darling never having to be anything for anyone, not needing to be anything they don’t want. It’s a peaceful existence in a way that Jamie hasn’t encountered before.

“Take this.”

“This is a jar of dirt.”

“Yes.”

“Is the jar of dirt going to help?”

“If you don’t want it, give it back.”

“No!”

Imagine if Brienne met Witchy!Darling as well. She’s definitely puzzled but I think she’d also find them charming in their own way. If darling was female then I think that Brienne would have another level of admiration for Darling just on the level of not caring about what others think about her.

Yesss!!! That’s an absolutely perfect way of saying it, anon! Witchy!Darling is a complete and utter breath of fresh air for him and he couldn’t adore her more for it. He feels like he can actually be real with her. He’s not a Lannister, he’s not a Kingsguard, he’s not the Queens’ brother, he’s not even the Kingslayer or anything else when he’s with his darling; he’s just Jaime and it feels so freeing for awhile not to have to be burdened by the weight of everything on his shoulders. He doesn’t have to feign anything, he doesn’t have to be perfect. His darling expects absolutely nothing from him and it’s a relief for Jaime but in the beginning especially it had him feeling a little lost and vulnerable. He couldn’t quite place his role when it came to his darling and in a way that would allow him to reinvent himself the way he wished he could have been all this time. Not to mention his darling is a far cry from Cersei and he couldn’t be more thankful for that.

I definitely agree that Brienne would have her own fondness for witchy!Reader. The Reader is unashamedly herself and has no care for anyone else’s thoughts or opinions regarding herself. She lives how she pleases and does as she so wants without a care in the world and Brienne would admire her greatly for that. I could even see Brienne seeing witchy!Reader as a possible mother or older sister figure. Especially if she’s so very openly supportive and encouraging of the path Brienne is taking to becoming a knight. Even if that support and encouragement is relayed in the form of riddles it’s still much appreciated and means a lot to Brienne.

Also, any weird thing that witchy!Reader gives either Jaime or Brienne would be held very close to them and treasured. I can’t help but imagine Jaime specifically when he finally gets back to Cersei after everything and her or Tywin finding his ‘jar of dirt’ from the Reader and ridiculing it, demanding it be gotten rid of only for Jaime to become absolutely feral at the thought of anything happening to his precious gift from his darling.

A few other yanderes off the top of my head who would be interesting with a swamp hag/witchy!darling would be Arya, Sandor, Margaery, Robb, and Jon.

[v3ng3anc3-qu33n]

Plan. (Pt. 3 of Her Revenge Series)

I was never part of the violence, the bloodshed, the pain, I thought i was being better than them... perhaps I wasn't I think to myself laying in my room at the bar used as a base, Sip of Sin, staring at the ceiling with cosmos and galaxy's swimming together, colliding in beautiful harmony. ...no I was never better than them I was stupid and naive... change will never come unless I make it come.

I stand up my feet touching the plush faux fur rug and sliding into my slippers as I walk my movements are graceful as that of a dancer as I glide across the room and sit at my vanity to just sit and stare with discontent brewing in my stomach along with a sudden burst of fiery fury as I stand the clock reads 4am i scowl and put on my silk robe, feeling cold as it touches my skin like a splash of ice water. I silently storm out of my room, the halls and shadows seeming to cower in fear from my form as they bend to my will.

Walking into the main room I go into the back room where my Uncle used to reside before he was caught. As I walk around I gently examine the room delicate touches as I search the room with no object in mind as I feel drawn to explore voices in my head echoing with past memories silencing as I see plans, plans to break into Tarturaus to steal something. Intriguing I think before rummaging around the nearby areas for a pen and start to modify the plans to steal the object of interest and free my Uncle.

"WAKE THE FUCK UP EVERYONE!!!" I scream banging pots together in the common room.

"WHAT THE FUCK!!" Shigiraki shouts pissed off.

"GOD DAMN IT I SWEAR I WILL KILL YOU!" Spinner yells.

"SHUT UP! KEEP GOING!" Twice i believe shouts.

"STOPPPP I WANT TO SLEEP!" Toga screeches.

"BITCH I WILL MELT THOSE POTS TO YOUR FUCKING HANDS!" Dabi screams.

"....Madame good morning." Kurogiri says with a face that looks regretful of his life choices.

"Good morning Giri!" I say happily pausing briefly as I do before resuming until everyone comes into the common area.

"..you couldn't use you witchy shit to get us down hear? You had to cause permanent hearing damage?" Dabi asks incredulously.

I ignore him and show them my plans.

"AHEM.. bitches... so here is my current plan we need more help so hire a bunch of goons to cause a diversion all around Tarturaus and all over Japan in general that way heroes are spread thin we will essentially be laying seige on Japan no one gets in or out for a week. In that time period near the end we will sneak in with Giri's portals and we let everyone out causing a riot and in theory the majority of them will get somewhat far leading even more people away we will retreat for a few hours as this happens then we will return and do whatever is necessary to free AFO he is in the basement level chained up in maximum security. While you all do that I will be sneaking into the wardens office for a... trinket of sorts. With the goons that survive we now have people who have proven there loyalty and there strength and they are also fairly expendable is this plan understood?" I say professionally the playful look in my eyes gone as I allow my eyes to settle into a cold and ruthless look.

"Who the actual hell made you in charge, also how do we make sure Master won't leave with the others?" Shigiraki says doubtful.

"Well I made myself in charge and leave that part to me. Does anyone else have any questions." I ask my gaze harsh as I pause. "no? Great. Start sending out the messages....NOW!!"

They all walk off still tired but doing as I say. I walk off to AFO's office again and start designing a new anti-hero costume I use my magic to summon a mannequin and start working i decide on a heat resistant, hydrophobic, and cold resistant kevlar material with detail pieces of titanium, I have a utility belt with potions, bombs, knives, and guns, I also have a hood attached to a magically controlled cloak so that Edna Mode doesnt get too mad and gas mask, the base of the suit itself is quite simple being a full body suit with high heels that are knives and with gloves along with utilities on my wrists such as vials of pepper spray, tasers, crystals I can fire at people, etc. The whole thing being a deep violet near black.

As the next few days pass the plans are finalised and I study more and more magic until Shigiraki tells me that everything is set in place for my plans.

I send out a message through water that will be said via my reflection the next time AFO sees water.

"We have gathered here today in loving memory of, nah I'm fucking with you all send out the word to start the siege." I say a grin creeping onto my face. The siege is on day 4 as we occasionally go out Toga killing people for blood, Spinner killing weaker heroes, Twice doing something with Compress, Shigiraki sending out Nomus, and me watching the chaos from above.

As the clock strikes 1:12am I wake everyone up for phase 2, breaking nearly everyone out of Tarturaus.

hi V3NG3ANC3 here sorry if this is confusing it will make more sense with the next chapter. Please write your thoughts in the comments! Also I don't think the bar name was ever said so I just out in my own I have no idea if it's a real bar. Love you all 💜🌙

[witchesoz]

The Wicked Witches of the West (4)

When creators try to diverge from the 1939 iconic look of the Wicked Witch of the West but still want to be inspired by it or pay homage to it, there are two different roads. One is to simply create something that looks like it enough but isn't the same (see my previous post). Another is to keep the defining features of the MGM witch, but sprinkle over it elements from the original description of the Wicked Witch. Like in this cover of the "Scary Fairy Tales" book series:

A demonstration of such a "mix" is the mini-series "Dorothy and the Witches of Oz", where they took back the overall look of the MGM Wicked Witch (black outfit, greenish skin, tall and skinny with "witch features") but added numerous details referencing the book version of the Witch. Being much more older looking, much more "dry" looking, having an eye-patch, holding an umbrella rather than a broom...

A more recent example would be the TV show "Agatha All Along", where the titular character of Agatha at one points is turned into a version of the Wicked Witch directly formed out of the MGM movie (black outfit, green skin, witchy-facial features) and of the Baum novel (the jacket is clearly designed as Denslow' outfit for the Witch of the West).

Also shout-out to Rio, who is also one of the Wicked Witch-coded characters of the mini-series, despite nobody seemingly acknowledging it? I mean come on... She has a green colored motif, even being "The Green Witch", she is the main antagonist after "Dorothy and her dog" (Agatha and "Toto"), she has the iconic witch cackle during the broom-flying scene, AND (spoiler alert) in the final episode she appears cackling on a rooftop the same way the Wicked Witch appeared on the roof of the Tin Man's cabin.

A third example of a "mixed-witch" pops up in the Shazam comics: in one of the recent re-creations of the "Monster Society of Evil", the Wicked Witch of the West appears, and she is basically designed after Denslow's drawings, but with her clothes being various shades of black and her skin being green - plus riding a broomstick.

Speaking of the use of Denslow's drawings, I want to make a shout-out to the episode "Tornado Prom", from "That 70s Show", who is one of the rare times an homage to Oz decided to go with the Denslow design for the Wicked Witch of the West instead of paying homage to the MGM movie.

Since we are talking about diverging "MGM Wicked Witches", alternate takes on the Hamilton-Witch, I want to speak about "Wild at Heart". David Lynch's movie is one of the famous "Oz movies not about Oz", as despite adapting a completely unrelated novel, Lynch worked in his film a LOT of his personal obsession with MGM's The Wizard of Oz. And while people speak a lot about the Munchkin references, the Yellow Brick Road lines, or the apparition of Glinda at the end of the movie, I want to highlight the character of Marietta Fortune, the main antagonist, who is explicitely compared to the Wicked Witch. At one point, when talking about her mother and the dark things she did for her, Lula hallucinates Marietta riding a broom in a witch-outfit right next to their car in the night-sky. And later, when Marietta has a mental breakdown, she covers her face and hands in lipstick, resulting in her skin looking bright red - a nod to the bright green skin of the Witch of the West (plus, her long pink fingernails evoke the green claws Hamilton wore).

[imnotasuperhero]

Cover me in sunshine (and everything will be alrigt)

Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Summary: When the dark looms over you, it’s good you always have someone who can resque you.

A/N: OMG! It’s been like.. OVER 2 YEARS! (Yes, I checked the date) BUT I FINALLY GOT THE PERFECT CONTINUATION TO THIS ANGSTY PIECE!! And while this idea had occured me a few weeks ago, I just got to finish it tonight, And. It’s. EVERYTHING! I honestly don’t know what will follow, but if you have something specific you wanna know or an idea for another story in the same AU, hit my inbox. For now, hope you enjoy this one 🫶

"You're staring."

And how could you not?

She was back. After 5 damned years, she was in your arms. Right where she belonged.

Your left hand reached her cheek, cupping her face so tenderly. The pad of your thumb smoothing invisible wrinkles on her soft skin with the gentlest touch you could muster. Afraid that if you caressed her a bit too hard it’d send her away.

But she was here. Wanda was by your side, on your bed at your dad's house and you felt yourself breathe, finally allowing your lungs to enjoy the oxygen that filled them with every single inspiration.

But the deep breath you inhaled got stuck mid-way as you felt your heart constricting itself, making your whole body ache and your lungs were no longer working as you witnessed how the brunette in your arms turned to ashes once again. 

And you wanted to scream, to beg her to stay, but your body was unresponsive and you thought this was what sleep paralysis felt like because you just stood there witnessing how her eyes begged you to hold her, asking you to have mercy and to not let her go. But all you could do was look at her with tears running down your cheeks while your insides burned from the excruciating pain that was consuming every cell in your body, making it impossible to move.

And the more you wanted to scream, the bigger the gag in your mouth, ricocheting your palpitations by the second, hearing the blood running through your veins clear as day in your ears.

When your lungs started to burn, the dizziness started to consume you, making your vision close until there was only darkness.

The sound of the beeping machine echoing in the room felt like thousands of nails in your brain and the sunlight made you shut your eyes at the brightness.

“It hurts,” you hoarse to the body besides your bed.

“Detka!” The brunette cried.

The look of pure anguish turned into the brightest teary smile you’ve ever seen and all your insides warmed up at that exact moment.

Lifting your hand, you cupped her cheek, feeling the lightest weight when Wanda leaned her face into your touch. “Hi, Witchy,” you smiled.

Suddenly, your personal space was filled with Wanda’s. And wrapping your arm around her, you just prayed to whichever god out there to let you keep her forever. 

“What happened?” You asked when she moved to lay by your side, holding your lock around her like a scarf, with your hand over her heart. The steady beating sending you into some sort of hypnosis.

“I don’t know, really.” The redhead’s eyes glued to you as the hand on your bare chest caressed your warm skin, careful not to ruin any electrode. “You just… You were dreaming and then you passed away after staying still for a few minutes.”

Flashes of your dream started to play and tears started to form in your eyes. 

Turning on your side, you snuggled impossibly closer to Wanda, “Please, never leave me again.”

But her voice never came. Instead, Dr. Cho walked into the small room.

“Glad to see you’re awake, Y/N,” the woman smiled tenderly as she started to check on the machines.

After what seemed like eternity full of different tests, you were dismissed with the promise of you starting therapy for ‘this is all in your head’ the dr. said. But all your plans flew out the window when your dad requested you stay in the compound with that ugly metalic band on your wrist.

“But what if we want intimate time?” You countered, seeing your dad’s face turn awry.

“First, ew.”

“Hey! Don’t say ew to my girlfriend.” You frowned.

“Honey, she’s like my kid. I don’t want anything to do with your… that.” Tony sighed tiredly. “About the wristband, please. I can’t have you-” He paused, looking at Wanda, then at your pleading eyes. “You owe me that much.”

Sighing, you just nodded your head, never meeting his eyes after the look of pure panic in his brown orbs. That hand around your heart squeezed it like a lemon, and its juice was your tears gathering in your eyes. 

“You’re one of the most important things I have,” he walked the distance, placing a warm, calloused hand on your chin, making you look at him. “I-”

“I know, dad. I'm sorry,” you blinked rapidly trying to brush your tears away, but it was of no use when the strong pair of arms secluded you into the comfort a fatherly hug could bring.

Looking at the scene unfolding in front of her, Wanda couldn’t help the mourning settling in her chest. She’s lost five years of your life and it wasn’t rocket science to understand you weren’t at your best. But just as her lungs started to hurt, Tony’s eyes indicated her to stay calm, “Gotta be patient.” he mouthed soundlessly.

And that she was. Wanda had kept quiet about her concerns, never speaking about them and always staying quiet, listening and analyzing every single interaction around her, paying special attention to the way Natasha behaved with you. Always hugging you, always touching you in some way ‘just friends’ don’t do, at moments, always so secretive. And she’d be lying if it didn’t poke at her heart.

The idea of you having had something with Natasha twisted the small knife inside her, making it harder to stay put.

Granted, you’ve been clinging to her since she came back, always making her feel loved and pampering her with love. But the greeny monster inside her kept tugging at her heart, reading too much into the situations in front of her eyes.

“I need air,” she kissed your hair before detangling her arms from around you.

“I can go,”

“No, Detka. Stay with them,” Wanda conjured the best smile she could fake. No need to add to whatever thing your brain was dealing with.

The pure oxygen the trees around her provided, was enough to keep her lungs happy. But the solitude of the leafy park she was in, made the crispy air pierce to her bones. And she wondered if maybe you felt this way. Maybe the cold in you needed the warmth she always provided until she disappeared, so you sheltered yourself in Natasha’s. Maybe- 

‘No’

She couldn’t let her demons crawl up to the surface. She couldn’t let her fears come in between the two of you.

“I might not be the telepathic one, but I still can hear you.”

The chills Wanda was experiencing only intensified at the voice beside her.

Turning around, the redhead faced the hard woman in front of her. Her fingers itched to pat that smirk away.

“What do you want?”

“I want to talk, that’s all.” Natasha raised her arms, showing her surrenderness.

“There’s nothing to-”

“It’s about Y/N,” Wanda’s mannerisms changed at the sound of your name.

“Is she okay?”

“She is,” Natasha nodded, signaling to a near bench and Wanda followed suit.

“The five years you weren’t here, Y/N had…” The older woman paused, looking for the right words to say. “She’s been through some very rough patches. She was in complete misery, and she did some not-so-good things.”

“What things?” Worriness started to shred her skin from the inside out.

“She’ll tell you when she’s ready.”

“What about me?” Wanda spat venomously.

“It’s why I’m here,” Natasha placed a hand on her thigh, sending some sort of calmness through her body. “I can only imagine what it must have felt like. I won’t say I understand because I stayed. But you gotta know she was never alone. And no, there was nothing between us.”

“How you-”

“I’m a spy, Wanda. I know how to read people,” Natasha shrugged.

Just like that, the looming darkness over her dissipated into thin air, allowing the sunrays to shine through. 

She still had a lot of questions that needed answers, but Natasha’s words allowed her to see clearly again.

“Thank you.” Wanda nodded. “For being there for her,” she spoke shyly.

“I can’t say it was the best experience, but I’d do it again.” She joked and Wanda laughed softly, knowing how big of a pain in the ass you could be. Sometimes you reminded her of Pietro.

“Between us?” Natasha drew her attention. “She always talked about your emo phase,” she winked something Wanda didn’t know how to identify as, and stood up. “I gotta go, don’t be long. She could use some time with you.” Natasha walked away, leaving a dumbfounded Wanda behind.

“Hey, W.E.D.N.S.D.A.Y.? You sure there’s nothing to do about this thing?” You asked the AI, inspecting the silver gadget on your wrist, racking your brains about fooling its bio results.

“I’m sorry Miss Stark, your father blocked me from giving you the information.”

Sighing you rolled in bed, grunting against your pillow.

Maybe you could ask that girl, Skye, you met at shield. She was a hacker and was one of Coulson’s favorites. You knew he wouldn’t oppose giving you her contact.

Now, if only you could think of something infallible…

But said line of thought was interrupted when your bed sank. Turning your head to the side, you gasped when your eyes focused on the brunette. Your fingers automatically curling around that soft hair you missed oh, so much.

“You dyed it?” You asked wide-eyed.

“I guess you like it,” Wanda blushed under your gaze and you couldn’t help the smile growing.

“I love it!” You giggled, trying really hard to keep your eyes away from the silky chocolatey locks, but failing miserably.

“Should I get jealous of my hair?” Wanda joked, staring at you.

“Maybe,” you smirked before you kissed her lips. “Hi,”

“Hello,” Wanda smiled in the kiss, wrapping her arms around you and laying you back in bed, her on top of you.

The distant voice calling you was closer with every step you took, but muffled at the same time. Like interference in a radio.

The smoggy air around you provided little clarity for you to see. Everything around you iced your blood the more you looked at the dry, crooked trees that seemed on a mission to capture you.

“Y/N!” The melody in the voice you loved to hear, has been replaced by horror. And the way your heart thumped against your chest felt like a march. Tu-tum tu-tum tu-tum. The same beat repeating in your ears, sending goosebumps down your body.

“Y/N!” The voice sounded louder, stronger, as a hand appeared in front of you and you begged for it to take you out of it.

Adjusting your eyes to the dim light coming from Wanda’s side of the bed, you allowed yourself to drown in those green eyes, taking it all from them, like the oxygen your lungs needed to survive. Wanda’s soft hands adding to the comfort from where they were placed.

“Detka, it was just a dream,” the brunette coed as her thumbs rubbed against your warm skin.

Focusing on the absentminded pattern she was creating, you allowed your body to relax against her touch.

“I’m so sorry,” she cried, hugging you close to her.

“What for?” You mumbled confused against her chest, basking in the warmth of her embrace.

At the silence settling fastly between you, you broke the hold, not caring about the magnetic force fighting to blend both your atoms.

“Wand,” you questioned softly, grabbing her hands in yours.

“I… I think I projected my dream onto you.” The brunette looked down, hiding from scrutinizing eyes.

“I thought you didn’t feel anything?” You mused, remembering her explanation of the five years she’s been blipped away.

“I don’t think it is because of the blip.” Wanda whispered.

“What do you mean?”

You looked back into those weepy eyes as they begged you to drop it. But that only lit up the curiosity inside you.

“What.” You pushed.

Seeing Wanda fidget in place, visibly uncomfortable, made your arms itch to shield her. But the hunger for knowledge won. 

Squaring yourself waiting for the worst, you studied your girlfriend. The usual carefree stance disappeared to display this anxious shy persona you haven’t seen in so long. Not after she started to move on from Pietro’s death.

“Nat told me,” her voice barely audible.

“Told you, what?” You braced yourself.

“When I was gone,” she paused and you saw how her tongue wetted her lips, misguiding you in the meaning for a second too long. “She told me you weren’t alright. And I know I have to let you speak about it in your own time. But the silence and secrecy about it all it’s starting to affect me because it’s not fair everyone else knows and I, as your girlfriend, am kept in the dark.”

“I-” You sighed, feeling the looming cloud fall over you in a heartbeat.

You always loathed the moment it would come up, because you knew avoiding her would be fruitless. The fact you had to open up to Wanda about your darkest years was something you always kept at the back of your mind. You weren’t ready to break her like you did the others. She deserved only love. But you knew she also needed the truth, no matter how hard it’d stomp over your relationship.

“I don’t know how it happened or what possessed me to do it,” you paused, trying to find the right words. “After you were blipped, all in me became a shell of the person I used to be. Every moment I replayed the same scene over and over again,” you sobbed, feeling your eyes burning and your throat starting to close itself. “One second you were smiling at me and a blink after, you turned into dust floating away from my arms,” you dried your tears with the sleeve of your shirt. “My mind kept repeating the same images over and over and I-” You had to stop yourself as you felt your body starting to tremble as you saw how Wanda’s eyes erupted with tears. The beeping coming from your wrist kept you grounded as you trusted the AI to inform everyone that it wasn’t a crisis.

“I lost myself,” you shrugged, smiling tearily as the shame took over you. “I lost myself and I became an addict.” You finally confessed, not daring to look up at the glassy eyes scrutinizing you, feeling your body burning up. You wouldn’t be able to keep on living if -when, you saw the disappointment in them.

“I became an awful person,” you laughed wickedly. “I became all the things I always stood against. And-”

The guttural, painful moan that roared from within you had you melting into those soft yet strong arms that encircled you in a securing grip.

Your cries turned into tremors as Wanda kissed your head repeatedly, her hand drawing circles on your lower back.

"I'm sorry," she cried alongside you, allowing you the time to calm down while she never stopped her ministrations. No matter how her eyes burned with the falling tears, the need to comfort you came first.

After a few moments, she laid you both in bed, your head over her chest. You sighed tiredly as your body relaxed against her. Wanda's beating heart casting a spell on your exhausted body.

"You have to let go," Wanda's voice was barely a whisper, almost afraid the calm that slowly started to reign dissipated away.

At your silence, she continued. "Someone once told me that who our alter ego was didn’t matter as long as we took over and allowed ourselves to heal."

You smiled silently at those words. Your heart pumped a bit easier at the knowledge she remembered them after all these years.

"Guess I should follow my advice," you tightened your hold on her middle section, basking in the comfort you craved for so long.

"I love you, detka." She cupped your cheek, making you look into those green orbs you loved to dive into. "And I'm never leaving you again." She promised.

You inspected her eyes in search of any trace of a lie. But you came up empty-handed.

Leaning up, you kissed her softly, slowly. Hoping she’d feel in that kiss all the devotion you withheld for her. And in consequence, allowing your mind to finally understand Wanda was here. She wasn’t going anywhere. Not unwillingly, at least.

Breaking the kiss for much-needed air, you snuggled against her as you inhaled her essence, filling your insides with the aroma that never failed to calm you down. 

The craving for the serenity you've been suffering from these excruciating years was finally subsiding the more you listened to her calm heartbeat. Because you knew that no matter how tumultuous your mind was feeling, Wanda always managed to.

Time ago, your heart bled whenever you saw people laughing, wishing with all your will for the day you would, too. And even if it seemed far away, her soul got you through another day.

After all, and even more so now with her in your arms, with Wanda by your side, everything would be alright.

As always, comments and reblogs are appreciated (:

Forever (wanda) taglist: @summergeezburr​ @red1culous​ @wandabear​ @xxxtwilightaxelxxx (If you wanna be added, let me know (:

[larluce]

Merlin as Arthur's familiar/Arthur's shapeshifter falcon AU

@dsabian , @theplatanitosqueal , @stressed-but-chill , @gregre369 , @chaosofbelievers , @thelordofabsolutelynothing , @another-tblr-fangirl , @aceauthorcatqueen , @smileytrinity , @tiny-and-witchy , @wako-weirdo , @a-very-tired-ravenclaw , @schiwalkers-ineffability , @natsu2501malo , @dearfuturelyn , @thedollopheadofcamelot , @yougottobekittenme , @your-local-asylum-escapee , @theroundbartable

LINK TO THE OTHER PARTS: PART 1 , PART 2 , PART 3 , PART 4 , PART 5 , PART 6 , PART 7 , PART 8 , PART 9 , PART 10 (You're here), PART 11

⚠️WARNING!! ⚠️: This chapter explores Merlin's friendship with Claws and his perspective of the events when he died, so it will inevitably be sad :(

Merlin in his bird form shortly after Arthur rescued him and Gaius tended his broken wing. He's alone in Arthur's chambers, perched on the window.

Merlin: (with his wing bandaged and looking out the window, thinking) This human's nest has a beautiful view. Oh, how I miss flying.

Claws: (flies in, lands on the window and gives Merlin a dead bird) For you, mate 😊.

Merlin: I'm not a female 😒. And I don't need you to feed me. (Thinking) I already have my human for that.

Claws: I hunt well. I will provide well for our chicks, mate 🥰.

Merlin:  Do you realize how forward it is for you to call me "mate" when we haven't even mated?

Claws: Oh! Do you want to see my flying dance? 😃

Merlin: No, I don't wa-and he's already dancing 🤦‍♂️

Claws: (flying very high and plummeting several times before flying up again and doing an 8 in the sky)

Merlin: (sighs in bird) Well, at least it's not so bad.

Claws: (he lands on the window again) So? Shall we mate? 😏

Merlin: I must say, that's the most impressive flying dance I've ever seen.

Claws: 😃

Merlin: But I wouldn't mate with you even if you were the last bird on earth.

Claws: ☹️.

Merlin: (thinking) I hate being so cruel to them, but that's the only way they leave me alone. (Chirps) Go away.

Claws: (does not move)

Merlin: I rejected you, go away! 😡

Claws: Are you going to eat the prey?

Merlin: What?

Claws: The prey I brought you, will you eat it?

Merlin: I already told you, I don't need-

Claws: 🥺

Merlin: (sighs in bird) If I eat it, will you leave me alone?

Claws: Yes 😊.

Merlin: I'll eat it, but only because I don't like wasting food (starts eating the prey). Now go away.

Claws: Okay, mate. (flies away)

Merlin: I'm not…! Ugh, never mind. (Keeps eating his food)

….

Merlin perched on a tree branch, sad after discovering that he is not a real falcon, but a familiar, a creature of magic.

Claws: (arrives and perches on the branch too) Hello, mate 😄.

Merlin: (barely paying attention to him, still very down) Hello, Claws.

Claws: (worried) Are you okay?

Merlin: Hmm?

Claws: This time you didn't say "I'm not your mate", or "I'm not a female". What's wrong? Are you sick?

Merlin: That has never stopped you, has it? But no, I'm not sick, I'm just sad.

Claws: Why?

Merlin: I discovered I'm a monster.

Claws: You're not a monster. You are my mate 😊.

Merlin: Do you want me to prove it to you? (He lets himself fall from the branch)

Claws: (chirps screaming) Mate! 😨 (flies after Merlin)

Merlin: (takes his human form just before landing on his feet on the ground) See?

Claws: (flying around Merlin, frantic) Mate! 😨 Where is my mate? What did you do to my mate?! 😡 (Pecks Merlin and scratches him)

Merlin: Ow! Stop it! Claws, it's me! (Takes his bird form) See?

Claws: Mate! 😃 What happened? Where did you go?

Merlin: I never left. The human you saw is also me (takes human form again) See?

Claws: (flies around Merlin, frantic) Mate! 😨 Where is my mate? Give me back my mate! 😡 (Pecks Merlin)

Merlin: Ow! (sighs) This is going to be harder than I thought (but laughs genuinely for the first time since he found out he is a familiar)

...

The day Morgana gives Merlin his neckerchief.

Claws: (perches on Morgana's window with a prey in his claws)

Merlin: (in his human form, talking to Morgana and Arthur) She does have a point. (turns around and exclaims happily when he sees his friend) Claws! (Takes his bird form and flies to him) What are you doing here?

Claws: I brought you food.

Merlin: (laughs in bird) I can hunt my own food, you know?

Claws: I know, but I'm practicing.

Merlin: Practicing?

Claws: Brownie and I got a nest. Soon we will have our chicks. So I have to practice to feed them.

Merlin: That's wonderful! 🥰 Congratulations!

Claws: (looking at Arthur who is talking to Morgana on the other side of the room) Is that your human?

Merlin: Yes.

Claws: I don't think he likes me. He looks at me ugly.

Merlin: Oh, don't pay attention to him, that's just his face.

Claws: (still looking at Arthur) Your feathers are dirty. (Pecks Merlin's plumage).

Merlin: (laughs in bird) What are you doing? My feathers are more than clean.

Claws: (seeing that Arthur looks at him even more ugly) Oh, I get it now.

Merlin: What?

Claws: (points his prey) Are you going to eat it?

Merlin: You should give it to Brownie. It is her you have to prove you can provide for your chicks, not me.

Claws: Right... Yes, I'll do that. (grabs the prey with his claws and is about to take flight, but turns to Merlin) Are you coming? I want to show you the nest Brownie and I found. In the way, you can help me convince her to give names to our 10 chicks. She still doesn't quite understand how names work.

Merlin: (mocks in bird) You think you're going to have 10 chicks in your first nest? You hold yourself in very high esteem.

Claws: Are you coming?

Merlin: Wait a minute (flies to Arthur and Morgana and takes human form) Claws wants to show me his nest!

…

Merlin going to visit Brownie after Claws' death.

Brownie: (crying in bird) How did he die? 🥺😭

Merlin: (wanting to cry too, but staying strong for Brownie) He was hunted by a human hunter. (Sighs in bird) I'm so sorry, Brownie.

Brownie: You should! 😡 This is your fault!

Merlin: What? 😧

Brownie: My mate insisted on flying around human territory because you were there! I told him this would happen if he kept flying that area! Humans are evil by nature!

Merlin: Humans hunt to eat. Us too. Why are they the only ones who are evil? Because they hunt birds? We do it too!

Brownie: And you defend them! You defend my mate's killers!

Merlin: You are hurt. I understand and I'm sorry. I will leave you alone. (He turns to take flight)

Brownie: You think I don't know you interact with those monsters? You say they are not very different from us, but they don't just kill to eat. They kill for fun, they also kill each other for no reason. That's how they are.

Merlin: Not all of them are like that (thinking) Arthur isn't like that. (Chirps) But even if that were the case, I think that just proves it.

Brownie: Proves what?

Merlin: That we are all animals (sighs in bird) When I return I will bring you prey.

Brownie: I don't want anything from you! 😡

Merlin: Goodbye, Brownie (he flies away).

…

Merlin in his way to the castle spots Arthur and Morgana outside, so he approaches to tell them that he has returned early, but before he can make his presence known…

Morgana: (yells angrily at Arthur) Don't "hi" me. You killed Claws! You murderer!

Merlin: (shocked, hides in a nearby tree) What…?

Arthur: (shouts back) You're talking like I've just killed a person. He was just a bird.

Morgana: He was not just a bird to Merlin and you know it! Did you think about how devastated he would feel?

Merlin: (Keeps listening to the conversation, increasingly horrified, but he is too petrified in his place, not knowing what to do or what to think)

Morgana and Arthur: (enter the castle)

Merlin: (destroyed, to himself) Arthur… Arthur killed Claws.

...

At Claws' funeral.

Merlin: (To Arthur) Anyways, I need to go now. (Thinking) I need space from you. (Says) Brownie needs me to hunt her food since she's incubating her eggs still and can't leave her nest. (Thinking) Because you killed his mate. You killed my friend.

Arthur: (guilty) Right, send her my condolences.

Merlin: (thinking) Are you really sorry? Then why did you do it? Morgana said it was because of jealousy. Did you do it for me? Was it my fault? Brownie says you are a monster, that you are evil. You killed my friend and that's evil... but I can't hate you, why can't I hate you? (Without being able to say goodbye, he just kisses Arthur's cheek, takes his bird form and leaves)

…

Merlin: (thinking while flying to Brownie's place) Humans are animals that feed on other animals. They also hunt, they also kill. There are animals that kill when they feel threatened too. Arthur... Arthur is not evil, he acted on instinct, didn't he? He is not evil. He killed Claws, but he also took care of me when I broke my wing, he protects me and protects Morgana, he loves me even though I'm not... He's not a monster, he's not... He's not evil... Right?

Brownie: (chirping in pain in the distance)

Merlin: (coming out of his thoughts) Brownie?

Peregrine falcon: (chirps furiously in the distance too)

Merlin: (worried) Brownie! 😨 (flies faster)

…

Merlin: (finishes killing the Falcon that was attacking Brownie)

Brownie: (dying on the ground) Merlin?

Merlin: Brownie! (flies to her) Don't worry, I'll cure you. You'll be fine. (Thinking) Shit, there's a lot of blood. (He tries to heal her with magic, but it's difficult in his bird form and he's always been bad at healing magic, plus Brownie's injuries are too serious) Damn it!

Brownie: My nest.

Merlin: It's save. He didn't touch it. The eggs are save.

Brownie: Take care of my nest.

Merlin: (chirp crying) No, you're going to be fine! (tries to heal her again)

Brownie: That's what Claws would have wanted.

Merlin: ... What?

Brownie: He always wanted to have a nest with you. (closes her eyes)

Merlin: Brownie? (Chirps in pain) Brownie!

…

When Arthur finds Merlin with the nest.

Arthur: (carefully lowering the nest with the eggs and Merlin from the tree) Done. (Orders one of the knights) Carry the corpse of the female merlin. I want it intact in my chambers, don't you dare cook it.

Knight 1: Yes, sire (picks up Brownie)

Knight 2: Do you want me to carry the nest for you, si- (makes gestures to take the nest)

Merlin: (Chirps, furious) NO! 😡

Knight 2: (Steps back, scared)

Arthur: I'd better do it, Sir Bedivere.

Knight 1: How are you going to carry it, sire? You won't be able to go on horseback carrying that.

Arthur: I'll walk. You can take my horse and go ahead.

Knight 2: But-

Arthur: That's an order! And not a word of this to my father. Understood?

Knights: Yes, sire. (They leave)

Arthur: (stroking Merlin as he checks him, concerned) Are you alright? Did that falcon hurt you?

Merlin: (shakes his head)

Arthur: (relieved) I'm glad. (looks at the spot Brownie was found, apprehensive expression on his face) That was Brownie, wasn't she? (Points to the nest) And these are...

Merlin: (nods, sad)

Arthur: (his heart hurting for Merlin) I'm so sorry, Merlin. (pulls him close in a comforting hug as carefully as he can still holding the nest) I'm really sorry. (his eyes water)

Merlin: (Chirps) I believe you. And I forgive you.

...

Merlin may have forgiven Arthur but I will never! And I'm the fucking author! 😡 Claws! 😭 You deserved better 🤧. #justiceforclaws

I swear I cried while writing this. I apologize if I made you cry too, but I think it was necessary to see this side of the story.

[fiyero3305]

TUA Fic: Witchy Prompts 28

Witchy Prompts via @myloveforhergoeson

28. Hayride

“What do you mean, ‘a hayride’? How do you ride hay?”

Allison leans away from the phone to sigh, massaging her brow bone where the standard ‘Conversation with Diego’ headache is forming. “The hay is in bales on a trailer. The kids sit on it and a tractor pulls them around the farm”

“That sounds boring as hell. Tractors go, what, like six miles an hour? My kids’ll never be entertained by that”

“I’m telling you, I chaperoned Claire’s field trip to the pumpkin patch a few years ago and every kid loved it”

“Not mine. They know when shit’s lame”

“Look Diego, it’s just a nice thing that kids like to do in the fall and I thought it would be something we could do with ours. I’m not saying it’s going to be a life-changing experience for anyone. I’m aware it’s not thrilling, but sometimes memories and experiences are just nice and that’s it. That’s how normal kids are raised and I’m just as at a loss for how to craft a normal childhood as you and Lila so I thought I’d offer an idea”

She wishes she weren’t so defensive around Diego, but their relationship has never been easy. She’s not sure what specifically kept them from connecting as kids, but her choices during the kugelblitz are definitely the main cause of tension now. She hears Diego start to say something before cutting himself off, taking a deep breath, and exhaling intentionally slowly. They’ve been trying really hard to fix their relationship for their kids’ sake.

“Ok. When did you want to go?”

“I’m looking at next Saturday”

“Yeah. We can do that”

“Great”

“… I didn’t need to crap all over your idea”

“I didn’t need to snap at you either” It was as close as they could get to apologizing.

“Well, I’ll see you next Saturday. Have a good one”

“You too. I’ll text the address”

Come the next Saturday, Ray and Allison are getting Claire ready to go. Allison’s insisting she wear a hat so her ears don’t get cold; Claire’s arguing that her ears are fine; Ray suggests a hoodie as a compromise.

“Thanks. I don’t know why I get so tunnel-visioned with her like that”

“You’re her mom and you want her happy and healthy” He says into her ear as he wraps his arms around her “And you’re a tenacious woman who fights for what she believes in, and passed that beautiful quality on to our daughter. Sparks are gonna fly from time to time”

“Thank God I found a sweet talker like you to calm the flames” Allison turned, smiling at Ray and sharing a kiss.

“Gross!” Claire announces, returning from her room in her purple hoodie.

Allison laughs “Oh you better get used to it. Your Tio & Mammi are biiiiig kissers!” She grabs her keys and leads the family out to the car.

“If they bring the twins can I hold them?”

“Maybe. They might stay home; they won’t be able to do this much walking and I don’t know if Tio and Mammi will want to carry them the whole time” Allison says opening the car door for Claire.

“I can carry them!” she says as she hops in.

“Ah, but you’re gonna want to be able to run around with Grace, and you’ll have your big ol’ pumpkin to carry too” Raymond suggests as he watches her buckle herself in. Claire ‘Hmmm’s but doesn’t push it. Her standard sign that she doesn’t like the answer, but recognizes that it’s true.

Allison slides into the driver’s seat and begins the not insignificant trip to the pumpkin patch.

By the time they make it to Janowski’s Farm, her anxiety is starting to prickle. It’s going to be the longest amount of time she’s spent with Diego without the rest of the family there as buffers since The Reset. Maybe ever, actually. She steps out into the gravel parking lot and sees him standing with Lila and Grace, holding both twins by the hand. Claire runs over to hug them all before she begins talking and laughing with Grace. Ray puts his hand reassuringly at the small of Allison’s back as they make their way over. Lila walks over and meets them halfway with hugs and cheek kisses.

“Are you ready for a shitshow?” Allison appreciates her sister-in-law’s knack for bucking cordiality. “Cause I don’t know about you lot, but there’s no chance my brood is getting through the day without exhibiting some truly egregious behavior”

The entrance to the farm is decked out with cornstalks and pumpkins. Passing through it, both sets of parents notice something. Paused shoulder to shoulder, Diego leans over to Allison to whisper out of the corner of his mouth.

“So when you said this was what ‘normal’ kids do, was that just code for… white kids?”

“Uhhh...apparently” Allison responds, letting out a bemused huff as she gazes out at the sea of infinity scarf moms and buffalo plaid dads.

“Well, let’s do what we came here for” Diego leads the way to the sign advertising hayrides. Allison and Lila grab their daughter’s hands and follow, deciding that they’ll be keeping a bit closer control of the kids’ behavior than they’d initially planned.

According to the sign, the hayrides are a continuous circuit and they just have to wait for the tractor to return. Diego offers to stay and wait while the others take the kids to explore the activities, so the seven head off. The first thing they come to is a huge wooden frame full of corn kernels with kids running and digging through like a sandbox. All the kids love it and spend the whole time making snow angels and pouring handfuls over each other’s heads until Lila gets the text that the tractor’s back. They’re reluctant to leave but with Ray’s assurances that they can come back after the hayride, they follow their parents back to where Diego is waiting.

They load up into the trailer and Grace is fascinated by the rumble of the tractor as it idles, louder and rougher than any machinery she’s encountered in her short life.

“We weren’t this close to the truck before!” Claire informs Grace excitedly “It’s cool being up front!”

“I want it to go fast!” Grace shouts, eyeing the giant wheels. Soon, they begin turning and she’s transfixed by watching the treads roll past her eyes. Allison watches with a smile as her daughter and niece point out everything they’re seeing to each other, from the corn fields, to the deep tracks in the mud, to the tall grain silos. She loves the way Gracie brings out the kid in her almost teenage daughter.

The hayride ends at the pumpkin patch, within walking distance of the farm entrance. All the kids go wild at the sight of it and charge off the trailer to find the biggest one. Allison holds Claire back a moment to remind her to be on her best behavior, take turns, and set a good example for her little cousin before letting her go. She takes pics of the girls searching and then of them posing with their selected pumpkins. Allison even manages to get a group shot of all four kids on a stack of hay bales, but the twins are starting to get restless so they pay for their pumpkins and head over to the refreshments.

As their spouses and kids enjoy apple cider and doughnuts, Allison finds herself alone with Diego.

“This was actually a really good idea. Thanks Allison”

“I’m glad you liked it. Thanks for agreeing to come out with us”

“Look Allison, I’ve been wanting to say something to you for a while”

“Ok” she braces herself.

“I just wanted to say… I get why you did what you did” She turns to face her brother who is decidedly keeping his misty eyes averted. “When they put Gracie in my arms for the first time I… my whole world changed, you know? I didn’t get it before, but now I look at my kids and it’s like… God, I don’t even want to put it in the universe, but if anything happened to them I’d at least have their toys and their clothes and everything that they ever touched. I can’t imagine what it was like for you to show up in that timeline and Claire just didn’t exist. I’d go insane if that happened to me and I’d tear through absolutely anyone and everyone to get them back.” He’s legitimately crying now. Allison too.

“Diego…”

“Look, I just want you to know that I don’t blame you for a thing you did. Not anymore. I would’ve done the same and worse in your shoes”

Allison throws her arms around his neck and holds him tight, overwhelmed by the joy of actually being seen.

“I love you” he tells her, voice thick with swallowed sobs.

“I love you, Diego. Thank you.”