#and it's all edible but i doubt anyone's actually eating it.

[phaedo]

does anyone else remember that post that used to go around about how like. you can tell it's the end of an empire when there are celebrity chefs. and they had examples from ancient rome and everything. i feel like the chocolate guy is like. a step past that. like the videos are mesmerizing but the fact that that guy exists is a harbinger of something.

[stellocchia]

I may have already done this, but whatever. Here's my headcanons on if the various Sans AUs can cook or not.

Chef Level:

Epic: Cooking is a science and he has mastered it. Though truly, he probably learned by trying to emulate whatever cooking anime he may have gotten obsessed with.

Color: He's a single mother of 6 and a full time caretaker for all of his friends, it was a sink or swim situation. He especially enjoys cooking when the ingredients are things he foraged for himself.

Blue: Tacos are actually not the only thing he can cook. And he's had a lot of time to practice as well as a lot of different culinary experiences thanks to his time with the Star Sanses. He's great.

Horror: I see everyone's point about food being a trigger for him and my two cents are that that's the case for me and I still adore cooking. Cooking may actually be therapeutic to him, and I think he'd become badass at it if given the chance.

Can Follow a Recipe:

Killer: While he doesn't eat much himself, he's good at following instructions, so if the recipe is well written (and he isn't in the mood to run some experiments on whoever he's cooking for) he can pull it off.

Cross: His dimension was monochrome, I doubt they had anything but the blandest of tastes. However, he can follow a recipe and he's hard-working enough to keep trying until he gets it right.

Delta: He gives off mainly "guy who mans the grill" vibes, but he undoubtedly had to take over on days where Color was feeling too sore and Epic was too tired from the constant nightmares, so I'm sure he could manage.

Dream: He probably could get to chef level if he had any more time to practice. But my guy is always running around saving AUs, so he's stuck here.

Could probably pull off scrambled eggs but would burn the water for a pasta:

Dust: My guy barely has the energy or enough fucks to give to be awake. He's not gonna cook unless his life depends on it. But, if it does, the food is at least gonna be edible.

Classic Sans: There's a reason why he and Papyrus still go with Papyrus canonically inedible spaghetti and it's because the most that guy can do is heat up some cup noodles. He can however do that without poisoning anyone, so he's still higher up than some of the people that are gonna be on this list.

Red: Underfell isn't exactly a place that allows monsters to focus on anything above basic survival. He most likely could get higher if he managed to escape that hellhole.

Lust: He can probably brew a banger coffee and maybe even pull off some microwavable food. That's kinda the peak his cuisine is gonna reach though.

That's not food, that's Poison:

Nightmare: He is made entirely of goop and I doubt said goop tastes good. It's gonna be in everything and everyone is gonna be sick.

Error: His diet consists entirely of chocolate and spite, dunno what to tell you guys.

Ink: They literally eat paint.

Killer if he's in a quirky mood: The poison was put in on purpose.

[tequila-solar-storm]

Author, I'm monopolizing your inbox at this point lmao

I've been pondering this all day but do you think Kinich celebrates his birthday?? I feel like he won't, he might either despise that date or just.. completely ignore it, even forget it perhaps (?)

To the point that no one really knows when his birthday is (elder Leik probably knows but would respect his son desire to just... Do nothing about it)

Mualani and Kachina might have tried to pry a little but ultimately gave up on the matter however sometimes Kachina will give him some shiny rocks (obsidian) because they were pretty and she had some spares! Kinich might also use then to make arrowheads or smth! And Mualani might invite him on a treck to somewhere because traveling is always more enjoyable in company! In other words they'll make sure that kinich will know they care about him and they don't really need a specific date of the year as an excuse to show their affection (and give him gifts!)

On the matter of gift giving I hc Kinich always knowing what's the right gift for someone. They'll be always practical gifts and alway appreciated (I'm craving Kinich knitting stuff for his friends after yesterday's talk ahhhh)

I forgot about Kinich liking spicy food!! Hopefully elder Leik can handle them lol it'll be cute if he just made a portion for him with a normal spice level and the rest for himself which would be just pure edible(are we sure about that?) lava

—🌻

Previous Post

If anyone out there is hesitating on sending an ask, this is your cue! I love receiving messages, sharing headcanons, discussing characters etc. so please flood my inbox with all your ideas!!

As for you, 🌻 Anon, feel free to keep monopolising my inbox for the time being. I love it 😆

Response under the cut!

I don’t think Kinich despises his birthday. He just can’t be bothered with it! Even though Ajaw keeps giving him ‘helpful’ tips (��If you publicise your birthday, everyone’s obligated to give you gifts and birthday mora!!’ ‘Ajaw shush’) it’s more of the fact he doesn’t like receiving gifts without giving something back? He’s pretty big on the whole equivalent exchange thing, after all! He has a good memory so he does still remember his birthday, and I do think Leik would make it a habit to eat out with him on those days!

He’s generally an open guy, so I doubt he’d keep his date of birth from his friends if they ask. But if he does for whatever reason I think Mualani will figure it out anyways. How? Annoying him to death.

She’ll show up at his door with cake and party poppers being like ‘HAPPY BIRTHDAY’ and when he tells her it’s not his birthday she’ll go ‘okie dokie!’, keep note of it, and then do it again the next day and the next and the next until Kinich caves and tells her the actual date. Kinich doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry at Mualani’s genius. Ajaw, meanwhile, is disappointed because no more free cake for him 😖

Kachina will be way more shy about it but yes!! She’ll definitely give him presents even outside his birthday! She’ll tell him ‘These are spares so you’re doing me a favour when taking them’ but Kinich knows she’s finding excuses. Still, he loves seeing the joy on her face when he accepts, so he plays along! Besides, being the smart cookie (Thankfully not Mualani’s brand of ingenuity) that she is, all her gifts are super practical! Such as the obsidian for making arrowheads that you mentioned!

While less often, Kinich will give them presents as well! It’s usually when he notices things about them. Maybe Kachina’s gloves are worn out, or Mualani’s backpack has a hole in it. He’ll happily knit them replacements! Even if his gifts inevitably get worn out in the future, you bet the girls will still keep them!

You can pry the headcanon that they often go on camping trips or long treks together out of my cold dead hands. I mean, they clearly were camping together during that one promotional poster where Ajaw’s very hilariously tugging on Kinich’s headband while the girls danced! In this trio of best friends, no one will go unloved!

There’s two scenarios that can unfold with Elder Leik and spicy food:

One: Kinich makes the food an acceptable level of spice. He plops one portion in front of Leik, kisses his dad’s cheek, and proceeds to dump an entire market’s worth of spices into his own portion. This is the cute scenario!

Two: Leik loves spicy food even more than Kinich so their meals are just. Lava. Picture Leik pulling out a lunchbox during a meeting with the other elders being like “My son made this for me 🥰🥰🥰” and by simply looking at his food the rest of the elders spontaneously set on fire. This is the less cute but significantly funnier option!!

[stelladess]

Who among the main cast of Arknights is the best cook?

I would define the "main cast" for the main story as a whole as being Amiya, Ch´en, Kal´tsit, W and the doctor, if we go into main characters for individual storylines things would get a lot more complicated (I think one could make the argument Ch´en is only for the Reunion arc but she appears more after then too then most operators do so I count her for the whole game too)

The doctor´s diet seems to consist mostly of protein bars, cup noodles and snacks. This would indicate they are not a good cook... however we actually get no information suggesting they are bad at it, they just do not do it much. They taught Amiya which shrooms are edible which she made a mushroom stew out of in Vigilo, which apparently tasted good. So I think we can from that infer that pre amnesia doctor was probably at least average of a cook, post amnesia jury is out on though. Probably bad at it due to not knowing how, and not having had time to relearn it yet though.

Ch´en´s diet consists of energy drinks and protein bars, or going for takeout. Ch´en is 28 years old and has lived on her own for about a decade or so, she can probably cook some stuff but it seems like she is still eating the college student diet despite being a working adult for years, we can infer that she is average to bad at it but probably knows HOW to cook at least.

Kal´tsit.... does not do regular cooking. She only does the kind you do in a lab, HOWEVER! Her weird green nutrient cubes that she gave the doctor at one point supposedly tasted surprisingly good. This suggests that while her cooking is extremely unconventional she is actually very good at it. And being tens of thousands of years old, having had all that time to perfect her craft, Kal´tsit is likely really good at it, even if she does not flex it often. She merely finds her lab made nutrient cubes to be a more efficient way of getting nutrients and still tasty.

W is also apparently pretty good at cooking. Hoederer, whose cooking consists of unseasoned boiled chicken, claims that W is really good. Which admittedly might just be in comparison to him and Ines, which seems to be a very low bar. But! In the 123-rhodes comics Paprika is also impressed with her cooking. We have nothing suggesting she is bad at it and a bunch of circumstantial evidence for her being good at it. She is at least average and quite possibly downright good at it.

And last but not least; Amiya. She seems to be fine at it. She keeps saying she is not good and can only do the recipes Gummy taught her... but she also did that mushroom stew, every time anyone tries her cooking or baking they say its good, she made those skewers in the cooking spinoff, with help admittedly, but they turned out good. Point is Amiya might not know how to make many dishes but she seems good at making what she knows how to make. Also like, it is Gummy´s recipes and why she is not as good as say Matterhorn who is an adult professional chef with years of experience, Gummy seems to be considered pretty darn good, and if Amiya is following her recipes, while she may be very "formulaic" in only knowing a few dishes (those+the skewers+some basic stuff like the shroom stew) the things she does know how to do is pretty tasty. Calling batter "embryo" does not make it taste any worse.

So my ranking would go something like:

Kal´tsit>W>Amiya>Ch´en>Doctor

However there are two wild cards that are spoilers from chapter 14 that might give W and Amiya stat buffs in this department too. But I doubt it would be big enough to catch up to Kal´tsit´s massive lead in her tens of thousands of years of culinary experience.

If anyone disagrees with this then let them speak now or forever remain silent!

[monarchtonone]

@restart-the-cycle @keeper-of-magic @angeliteonfridgeduty (Since you seem to be curious about this now . . . )

Lucky spent the last few cycles with me, trying to uncover all the secrets of this butchering chart we found. The results are . . . morbid, to say the least.

- - - - - - - -

-WHITE LIZARD-

Eye - Inedible

Head - Edible, though not worth effort of breaking the skull; Very rich in protein, however

Claws - Generally Inedible

Leg - Little meat, but sweet and somewhat fatty

Chuck - Tender, meaty, and better cooked than raw; Very full flavor

Rib - Full, hearty, meaty flavor that strikes the tongue, despite how little fat is marbled in

Loin - Lean and tender, but bland; Do not eat alone

Tail - Very long strips of mostly fat; What little meat there is tastes wonderful

Spines, etc - Inedible

Tongue - Very rubbery and sticky, but with unrivaled flavor

Organs - None are very appealing, save for the heart, which has a nice gamey taste

RATING: 3/5

Too little meat for a lizard. Overall, though, a sweeter and leaner choice to Pink.

- - - - - - - -

(OOC: There was originally an image to accompany this, but I'm still fighting drawing it and wanted to get this posted because tomorrow is the big reveal lol.

I will post it once I finish it.)

This confirms it. He's eating them. He's dissecting and eating creatures . . . but why?! Why do this, then still have the nerve to lie?

I have to thank Lucky for all this, he confronted Drops about it shortly after. The transcript is below.

-Begin Transcript-

LE: Drops, we need to talk.

NDI: Is it about the dissections? The way I talked to Pages? Ungrateful spoiled little rat, is what she is.

LE: None of that. Look, I swiped one of your notes-

NDI: How DARE you!

LE: Shut up or we'll find out if you're a mobile model as well. Now, look, I swiped one of your notes and you're clearly butchering creatures. You even have the way they taste!

NDI: . . .

LE: Drops. Tell me why.

NDI: . . .

LE: Tell me why or you'll get a fire egg shoved down that bloody maw of yours.

NDI: I was curious. My ancients always wanted me to reflect on their own odd personalities. I never understood it. One day, they gave me a mouth, and it was like something inside of me awoke.

NDI: A part of me I wouldn't trade for the Triple Affirmative, even.

LE: Weird flex but okay.

NDI: They wanted to see me go savage. They wanted to watch me break down into nothing more than the beasts on the ground below.

NDI: But I'm a little more sophisticated than that. Instead I began dissecting out of curiosity. But of course, then I had to dispose of the bodies, and, well, I have a mouth, so-

LE: So you ate them.

NDI: Yes. You all have no idea how good meat tastes. Particularly red lizards, they're all muscle and absolutely amazing. Cooked or raw, I like-

LE: You're getting sidetracked.

NDI: Right, um, of course. So, my ancients started coming down themselves. And, I had enough of it, so I did some research and . . .

LE: And?

NDI: I won't explain how I did it. But I disabled their ID drones so I could hurt them. As much as I wanted.

LE: For fuck's sake, Drops, don't tell me you-

NDI: It's a possibility.

LE: Well, that settles that.

NDI: They got suspicious, even though I only ate about a third who crossed my path. So they all ascended and left me behind. Alone. Hungry.

NDI: Creatures have been slow coming in. I started to feel weak without their blood. I fear my system as become reliant on it, just as necessary as water.

LE: So . . . why.

NDI: Why what?

LE: Why the fake water call.

NDI: Well I needed something to eat! I doubt anyone would respond to a sudden call for blood, so I did the next best thing!

LE: Yeah, next time, don't.

NDI: Lesson learned, lesson learned. Look, if I had known something like that actually happened I wouldn't have done it! I would have said something else, like . . . like I needed creatures for an experiment or I needed creatures to fight off something in my ecosystem.

LE: Be glad I'm not mad at you. The others . . .

NDI: Is there another annoying messenger on it's way-

LE: . . . You'll . . . you'll see. Monarch hinted at something called a Scrapper.

NDI: FOR FUCK'S SAKE, TELL THEM TO STOP IT!

LE: You deserve it. Anyway, now I'm curious. What do some creatures taste like?

-End Transcript-

Technically there's more Lucky wrote, but it's all just Drops talking about the way different creatures taste and I am not reading all of that. There is one good thing:

Lucky convinced him to open his communications in a few cycles.

Now, with all this out of the way, who wants to go topple a superstructure with me?

[filonikou]

I realized that my fic is so short I can put it here

The blob

Tim nearly fell out of the bed because his leg was tangled up in the blanket. He prepared himself to fall but with a weird pose, he managed to stand up. He couldn't help but gasp as he looked up. He was looking at the strangest sight he'd ever seen, and he'd seen a number of bizarre things in his life. 

As the third Robin, now known as the Red Robin, he felt that nothing could surprise him. But this thing looked like something out of a cartoon. It only could be described as a floating green blob. It didn’t really have a shape but strangely have something that looked like eyes, if you would call two black orbs eyes.

 “Uh,” muttered after starting for a while, “ I should have eaten before I went to bed. Now I hallucinate things.”

Walking to the kitchen and starting the coffee machine he knew that not eating wasn’t the real problem. Even so, he opened the fridge thinking that eating wouldn't make things worse, but of course, there was nothing edible in the fridge. 

“I have it bad. My fridge contains more samples obtained from the crime scene than genuine food. Alfred would be so disapproving if he know that this is where I keep the samples.”

From the corner of his eye, he sees the green floating glob. It was indeed floating rather than flying; he had seen people fly previously and this creature was not doing that; rather, it appeared to be in water. The thing swayed gently as it emerged from the bedroom. 

Tim began to panic; hallucinations had never lasted this long before. He saw things when he was exhausted, but now he was well rested, which was unusual on its own. But seeing things in this state was the first. He could see the glop right in front of him. Tim reached out cautiously to touch it, but his hand passed through without touching anything.

"So this is really a delusion," he says, shaking his head, "Of course, it's not real. Don't be a moron." 

He looked at the phone, which was left on the corner top, considering telling someone, but then just shrugged, "It will go away soon, there is no need bothering anyone,” chuckling softly, “Half of them would just laugh, especially Jason and Bruce would want me to do mental health examination."

He began drinking his coffee and making a shopping list, even though he doubted that he will actually go shopping. 

Despite having slept for a few hours, his mind was just not in the right place. Given that the green glob was still there, he was in even worse shape than he had anticipated. 

Overall, it wasn't too shocking; he'd had some difficult weeks behind him. Yesterday he finally solved the latest serial killer case, which had been ongoing for several weeks and claimed the lives of 17 people. In his mind, he cursed himself, thinking that if he had realized the motivation sooner, fewer people would have died.

But who would have suspected that the murderer was motivated solely by the victims' red shoes? Because the bodies were discovered naked, everyone assumed it was the work of a sexual predator, even though there was no evidence of rape.

All that remained for him was to write the report, which shouldn't take long. He'll then get some free time. Even then, he'd probably go see some of his friends rather than go grocery shopping. He'll eat the energy bars he got specifically for this kind of occasion. He knows himself enough not to rely on having food at home.

“I'll just go to the mansion to give Bruce my report before eating here, it will be good seeing him and Alfred in my civils not at night as a vigilante. Alfred's food always the best anyway.  And even the Damon brat isn’t home for the weekend.”

He tries to ignore the green blob, but it's impossible when it's in his hair; he thinks he feels it, but when he attempts to touch it, he can't. He feels slightly cold but nothing much.

“Ignire, ignore, ignore. It will go away if you ignore it.”

[sstwins]

Femslash Feb Day 7 - Dahlia - Kitty/Cerise

the swap actually ended up working out perfectly guys

i was hoping dahlias would be poisionous to cats and dogs so i could write this story... and they are!

its all coming together this month

i could really use some more ships though if you wanna send some over!

(to the person who suggestion cj and freddie IM SO SORRY i never watched wicked world beyond a few episodes X.X)

Brief Summary: Cerise was very cautious. Kitty was very wild. Maybe their differences were what made them a perfect pair.

Word Count: 440

I’m still accepting ships for femslash feb!!! Send me your fave fem pairs and I’ll write you a fic sometime this month!! (22 spots left)

Cerise had learned from a young age to be really cautious when shopping for flowers. There were a ton of beautiful blooms that were poisonous to dogs, which also included wolves. Obviously her dad probably wasn’t going to eat those, but it was better safe than sorry. Plus, she and Ramona were technically half-wolf, so it was just better to not have those hanging around. Her mom had a big love for flowers though, so she’d taught them about safety. Roses were in. Dahlias were out.

Regardless, she and her family weren’t big flower eaters. But when she’d started dating Kitty, this random body of knowledge suddenly became very helpful.

Kitty was honestly kind of wild. Probably it was because she’d been raised in Wonderland. Cerise didn’t know everything that went down in that place, but she’d come to the assumption that a lot of things there were randomly edible. Including things like pencils, buttons, and flowers. Cerise had absent mindedly picked out an animal safe arrangement of flowers to give to Kitty not long after they’d started dating, but her stomach had still plummeted after Kitty started munching on them. Thankfully she hadn’t contaminated the bunch, and everything was fine.

Frankly, Cerise didn’t know how Kitty had gone so long without getting poisoned. She would eat random things off the ground all the time. She’d had to pull a bunch of things out of Kitty’s hands in the first few months of them dating before the girl finally caught on. The cat had been very insistent that she had some kind of ‘Wonderland Immune System’, but Cerise just didn’t see how eating leaves could possibly be good for anyone.

It was, admittedly, endearing though. Kitty had a very low sense of fear, whereas Cerise’s was extremely high. She’d been raised to always be incredibly cautious, and never put yourself out there more than you had to. All in the pursuit of keeping the family secret. Although she was passing some of that caution onto Kitty, the other girl was also helping her to be more daring. She’d learned how to climb trees and sit on precarious branches. Sometimes, when they were all alone in the middle of the woods, Cerise would even take her hood down and feel the wind on her ears. 

They both had things to learn from the other girl. Cerise wasn’t sure if she’d ever actually be carefree, and she doubted that Kitty was going to give up her wild side. But together, they both encouraged the other girl to do things that were different. And maybe that was what made them a perfect match

[yanderegrizzsworld]

Okay but imagine if the reader got transport in the welcome home universe but they're body remain the same (flesh and blood) and if the cast yandere too? Oh, the chaos!

I like to imagine that it would cause a heavy conflict for all them (the puppets) since the reader aren't not like them and they sure don't know how the human body work ( i mean they literally just stuff of cottons and fabric) . But they'll try.

I also had a feeling that this would be the headstart of they're obsession since 𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 was always the first move to disaster.

Take wally here for example! It's canon that he eat with his eyes close, so seeing the reader put the apple into their mouth then 'bite' into it?- ( im assuming they don't know the concept of eating/chewing since they dont have teeth. despite having a edible food in they're world ) wally would 'unententionally' hover around the reader from time to time everytime they try to 'eat' something. he's just curious okay! Can you blame him that your way of food was different/fascinating? W̶h̶i̶c̶h ̶̶i̶̶s ̶a̶ ̶̶ha̶l̶f ̶l̶i̶e ̶i̶f ̶h̶e ̶d̶o̶n̶'̶t ̶u̶s̶e ̶t̶h̶i̶s ̶e̶x̶c̶u̶s̶e ̶j̶u̶s̶t ̶t̶o ̶b̶e a̶̶r̶̶ou̶n̶d ̶t̶h̶e ̶r̶ea̶̶d̶e̶ ̶b̶u̶t ̶s̶h̶u̶s̶h̶.

We also have this scenario with reader having five fingers/nails. I feel like this would fit more for howdy or Barnaby, cause A your just like howdy, but with many fingers! You could definetly make a big help in his shop o̶r ̶s̶o ̶h̶e ̶sa̶̶y̶s̶ and B you could give barnaby one of the best scratches! Which may or may not lead to you getting dump in the floor with a giant dog laying on top of you

But anyway this is just a thought i would like to share after seeing a post in wh x reader in my feed. ˡᵒᵒᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ʳᵉᵇˡᵒᵍ The other remain cast can be on your part if you also would like to share your opinion on this dump!

-𝐣𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧

The Reader gets essentially isekaied to the WH world/WH cast gets isekaied to our world are arguably my favorite kind of WH fics (of which is very odd for me cause I usually don't like isekai fics/stories in general)

I definitely agree that none of them have any clue about how our body works, I doubt any of them have a biology book about human anatomy so whenever we mention/talk about bones, muscle tissue or blood vessels they won't understand what on earth we're saying. I can't recall if it's canon that Wally just likes to stare a lot or if it's more of a fanon thing, but if it is true then I can only imagine how y/n feels whenever he's around. Wally is, just like his last name, a darling to be around but those eyes, you'd swear he knows all your regrets & bad life choices & somehow feeling his stare on you but not knowing where exactly he is whether you snack on a jibarito or an apple, you'll just feel this heavy weight on your shoulders & be beyond nervous &/or anxious like-

With the whole we have an extra finger thing, while I can certainly see it fitting Howdy & Barnaby, assisting Howdy with his shop & giving us amazing hugs because of his extra arms & Barnaby receiving undoubtedly the best scratches he's ever had in his life, like what on earth? Where have you been his whole life? Though I can see this also applying to Julie. Oh how she'd love to paint our nails! Though since none of them have fingernails, the closest ya'll can get is using actual paint, but yeah! A fun bonding activity! & not to mention how she'll talk about how soft/rough what we call "skin" is! Also, I bet you Barnaby would do the whole comparing hands thing & tease our small ours are compared to his large paws that seem like they could engulf your hold face.

Ngl, we I started reading this, my mind went immediately to Frank & his fascination & obsession with us, especially the whole us being human & not made of cotton & fabric. Like imagine him (or anyone else) asking us about literally anything about us & you turn to look at Frank & he's just standing/sitting there with a notebook & pen in hand writing frantically what we said & staring at us waiting to answer someone's question.

Sally would almost never leave our side & is practically, alongside Julie & Wally, asking the most questions about us. But can you really blame her? You're practically out of this world! Just like her Though I do warn, she'll practically demand your attention, I mean, she is a star after all! Both literally & figuratively.

Poppy, while remaining as polite as ever, would maybe be a bit shy to properly talk to us while also simultaneously worrying for our wellbeing, but don't worry! She made you her her signature muffins as a gift! How sweet of her! & she'll get less shy the more time we spend with her & if you let her, she'll before than happy to knit you something!

I feel like Eddie would hand you letters written by either him or Wally other neighbors as you'd be, naturally confused if you suddenly appeared here with no memory on how you got here or if there's a way to get out, But why would you wish to go back? This neighborhood is practically perfect!. When he first mentioned having delivered mail in other areas before, it'd bring you much joy & hope, a way back home? Yes please! But would quickly realize he has some issues remembering it correctly, but he tries his best!

[kirkirk]

Charade Maniacs Tokuten Translation - Free spirits' lunch conditions [自由人のお昼事情]

Before you read: This is my first time doing translations like this, so, if you see any mistake/typo/incorrect part, please tell me and I’ll change it as soon as possible! I had a hard time figuring out some lines, so do take everything with a grain of salt. I really fell in love with Charade Maniacs, so I think it would be awesome to gather a little community of translators. The game doesn’t have that many tokuten, we could be done in a heartbeat. Also, English isn’t my first language either and that means some lines may sound unnatural. Rant over, this CD features Gyoubu, Futami, and Haiji. It’s pretty lighthearted and that means post-game therapy ^^

FUTAMI: Oh! You’re here. I would like to thank you for coming, but…

GYOUBU: This CD is a Charade Maniacs store tokuten, that means there could be spoilers from the game’s main story, but… you’ve already played it, right?

HAIJI: We want the people that still haven’t played the main story to come here afterwards.

FUTAMI: If it doesn’t bother you, you’re good to go. This warning is just in case.

HAIJI: I bet you’ll get hungry too, prepare some snacks and come, okay?

GYOUBU: I heard that we will be in the kitchen for a while…

FUTAMI: You two, weren’t we in the middle of a spoiler warning? Well, whatever. If you don’t have a problem, please wait a second-

FUTAMI: Charade Maniacs store tokuten drama CD – Lunch conditions for free spirits. Let’s begin.

(Music starts)

GYOUBU: Gaaagh, I’m so hungry!! Kei-chan, give me some food!

FUTAMI: Hey, Gyoubu. If you are searching for Ebana, he’s not here.

GYOUBU: Oh? Ryoichi? Why isn’t he here?

FUTAMI: You know he doesn’t live in the kitchen, right? Lunch was a long time ago.

GYOUBU: I played games the whole night, so I was sleeping in my room until just now. If I don’t eat something quick, I will starve to death.

FUTAMI: You were up all night again? …hey, why are you rummaging around?

GYOUBU: Agh… I was thinking there could still be some leftovers in the fridge, but…

FUTAMI: Since you didn’t wait for permission to start hunting for food, Ebana will get mad when he comes back, you know that, right?

GYOUBU: That’s alright, alright! I won’t be afraid even if he gets angry at me. I mean, I find it funny how he’s always acting so cold (1), doesn’t that make you want to tease him more?

FUTAMI: Hahaha…

GYOUBU: So… There was nothing left. What.

FUTAMI: Yeah, we had gratin today. Someone must have eaten what was left.

GYOUBU: Gratin?! Uwaaaagh, I bet Kei-chan’s gratin is delicious.

FUTAMI: Actually, it was pretty great. You were the only one that wasn’t here for it.

GYOUBU: Eeeh… Then I wonder why you didn’t leave me my plate…

HAIJI: Oh! …just you two?

FUTAMI: Haiji! As you can see, Gyoubu and I are the only ones here.

GYOUBU: Yes, yes. Also, there is a possibility I starve and die right here and now.

HAIJI: Is that so…? I was hungry too, is there nothing left?

GYOUBU: Hmm, I’ve been inspecting the fridge for a while, but there doesn’t seem to be anything edible there...

HAIJI: Ok… Then, should we do it ourselves?

GYOUBU: It’s a pain, but I guess we don’t have any other choice, huh. Aww, if only Kei-chan were here, I would have come out of bed and eaten right away.

HAIJI: So, what should we do?

GYOUBU: Me, me! I think I crave sakuramochi!

FUTAMI: Sakuramochi? Isn’t that too specific?

GYOUBU: I like it, weren’t the ones we had the other day great? So that’s why I want them again, I guess.

HAIJI: Mhmm, those were really good.

FUTAMI: I understand, but isn’t that a little bit too difficult for amateurs like us?

HAIJI: Does anyone know the recipe?

FUTAMI: Obviously, I don’t.

GYOUBU: Me neither!

HAIJI: I don’t either.

FUTAMI: I’m sorry, but let’s not go with sakuramochi. Even if we managed to make them, I doubt we would get the same flavor.

GYOUBU: Eeeeeeeeeeeh…

FUTAMI: You are about to say that you will eat them even if we failed? You can try to pull that one if you want to, but...

GYOUBU: Okay, let’s do something else!

FUTAMI: Ahahaha…

GYOUBU: Haiji, what do you want to eat?

HAIJI: I…, ice cream would be good.

GYOUBU: Just as I thought, I knew you would say that. Still, if we are talking about ice cream, the freezer if full of them, why bother making it ourselves? It’s not necessary.

HAIJI: I get it…, then how about cream puffs or apple pies?

GYOUBU: Those are the ones she's made before...

HAIJI: Yes! They taste good!

GYOUBU: From her repertoire, I’d want to have strawberry daifukus…

FUTAMI: You're only bringing up difficult dishes.

GYOUBU: And I wonder, wouldn’t Ryoichi Mr. Adult be able to help out...? (2)

FUTAMI: Hey, hey, don’t be ridiculous…! Anyways, why only desserts? Since we are talking about lunch, we should do something more normal.

HAIJI: Normal?

FUTAMI: Yes, like oyakodon or soborodon. Usually, I’m able to cook those.

GYOUBU: Meeeh? Aren’t those TOO normal?

FUTAMI: Too normal? What do you even want for lunch?!

GYOUBU: Since we are the ones cooking, I want something fun. That means the process will be entertaining too, right?

FUTAMI: You say ‘something fun’, but…!

GYOUBU: What do you think about those, the crepes that Kei-chan did the other day!

FUTAMI: I guess we are returning to deserts.

GYOUBU: Those guys… You could fill the crepes with anything you liked, just like a makizushi party, wasn’t it good? (3)

FUTAMI: Okay, that was quite fun.

GYOUBU: To think that I still haven’t forgotten about the one filled with matcha cream and red bean paste that I had!

HAIJI: I filled mine with lots of cream, chocolate and ice cream! It was so fun, I’d like to try it again.

FUTAMI: But that’s such a huge dish, Ebana will get mad for sure if he sees we’ve used that many ingredients without permission.

GYOUBU: Heeey, come on, let’s go with crepes! Haiji, you want to do so too, right?

HAIJI: Actually, I’m okay with it just being edible. I’m starving…

GYOUBU: A treason in broad daylight?!

FUTAMI: Hey, Gyoubu, we’re making it together, right? Today you’ll have to settle yourself with oyakodon.

GYOUBU: If there is no choice… I’ll accept your food today,

Ryoichi.

FUTAMI: Haha, thanks… Okay, I’ll have it done in a minute.

HAIJI: Hey, what goes into oyakodon?

FUTAMI: Eggs, chicken, and onions… There are still rice leftovers in the cooker, so I can season it afterwards.

HAIJI: Ooooh…

FUTAMI: I’ll prepare the pan and utensils. Haiji, would you mind bringing the ingredients I’ve just said?

HAIJI: Yes! Understood.

(Moving cookware SFX)

HAIJI: Huff… I put there all those things you mentioned. Is this okay?

FUTAMI: It’s true. You’re great, aren’t you? Compared with Gyoubu…, what are you even doing in that corner?

GYOUBU: It’s a game!

FUTAMI: How can you say it with such confidence.

GYOUBU: I’m not that good at cooking, so I thought I’d just play while you were at it. My role here would be eating.

FUTAMI: You were the one that requested this, how about you help a little bit? Even if you are bad at it, it’d be better if you could at least do something.

GYOUBU: Oh, that’s not a problem. One day, I will get a cute wife from whom I will ask for all of my meals.

FUTAMI: I think that wife would be happier with a man that knew how to cook.

GYOUBU: Aww, so that’s how it is… By the way, what are you making Haiji do?

FUTAMI: Ummm, could you peel the onions? Only the brown part.

HAIJI: Got it!

FUTAMI: Now, Gyoubu, you too. You can do as far as cracking and scrambling the eggs, right?

GYOUBU: Well, I guess I’m able to do that…

(More cooking SFX)

GYOUBU: Ryoichi, you are surprisingly good at this, aren’t you?

FUTAMI: Is that so? Since I live alone, I always cook for myself.

GYOUBU: Living alone, huh… That much freedom sure would be good.

FUTAMI: I might be free, yes, but, in exchange, there is a lot of stuff to do! Laundry, cleaning…, there is no other option but to do it yourself.

HAIJI: You do everything alone? That’s amazing…

FUTAMI: That’s just how it is.

(Frying SFX)

GYOUBU: Oh! That smells goooood…

FUTAMI: Riiight? Wait, Gyoubu, what are you putting in there?

GYOUBU: What? Tsubuan?

FUTAMI: You said it like it isn’t a big deal, why tsubuan?

GYOUBU: I guess I’m really in the mood for traditional sweets today. The crepe talk a while ago didn’t help either.

FUTAMI: Now that you say that…, strawberry daifuku and sakuramochi, those were both traditional Japanese sweets!!! That was your plan all along!

HAIJI: I like red bean paste too, if we use it, it could taste very good maybe…

FUTAMI: It doesn’t matter how many times you say it, I’m not putting that in the oyakodon.

GYOUBU: Ryoichi, look, life is a challenge.

FUTAMI: I get it, I’ll do something like that for dessert, but, please, let me cook the oyakodon normally!

GYOUBU: Oh, really…?

FUTAMI: Yes, it won’t be as good as Ebana’s would be though.

(Cooking SFX)

FUTAMI: Now all that’s left is serving the rice, then place some chopped green onions and… Alright! It’s done.

GYOUBU: You actually did it…

HAIJI: Looks tasty…!

FUTAMI: Come on, you two, eat it before it gets cold.

HAIJI: Yes…

GYOUBU: Okaaaaaaay!

HAIJI: Mhmmh, this is really delicious.

GYOUBU: Mhmhm! Even better than the ones you buy frozen. You left me wanting seconds. Ryoichi, aren’t you able to be a great bride?

FUTAMI: What am I supposed to do with that skill? Well…, as requested, I made you red bean soup with mochi, so make sure you finish it too.

GYOUBU: Did you really…?

FUTAMI: That’s because you wouldn’t stop asking for red bean paste!

HAIJI: Hey, about the discussion you were having… Can you become a bride even if you are a man?

FUTAMI: That is indeed impossible. I would be a groom, but still…

HAIJI: Oh…, okay.

GYOUBU: Nevertheless, we are trapped. I sure hope we don't have to spend the rest of our lives here...

FUTAMI: I wonder… When we gather enough points, we might be able to escape. But we still don’t know how much time it will take.

GYOUBU: Well, if it gets to that, I might ask her to marry me.

FUTAMI: Huh?!

HAIJI: Then I want her to marry me too.

GYOUBU: Obviously, sharing her is out of the picture so we have to decide who’s going to marry her, right?

HAIJI: I assume we can’t decide it with rock-paper-scissors…?

GYOUBU: Then we would have the answer too soon…! I think there should be better ways to settle this.

HAIJI: Oh…

FUTAMI: Hey, hey, don’t be so reckless. You must take her feelings into consideration too!

GYOUBU: Either way, I think the fastest we choose, the better. Taking into consideration our circumstances, that’s it.

FUTAMI: You should be worrying about her answer!

GYOUBU: Wait, then you don’t want her to be your wife?

FUTAMI: That’s not what I meant. I just feel you need to become closer to her before jumping into those questions.

GYOUBU: Isn’t that too tedious?

HAIJI: I think we already are close enough though…

FUTAMI: Is this really how the youth thinks nowadays? Well, you are free to think that you want to marry her, but…, for now, just don’t mention it in front of Banjo.

GYOUBU: If this conversation reached Tomo's ears we would really be in trouble, right…

HAIJI: Does that mean we can talk to her about it? Then, I’m going…

GYOUBU: Talk to her about what?

HAIJI: That I would like her as my wife, yes…

FUTAMI: Hey!!!!

GYOUBU: Doesn’t that sound entertaining?! Can I go watch you?

HAIJI: Yeah, no biggie…

FUTAMI: Gyoubu, wait! You’ve just called it ‘entertaining’, didn’t you?!

GYOUBU: What are you talking about? I genuinely just want to watch over the ripening of Haiji’s love…!

FUTAMI: You just want to have fun after all.

GYOUBU: Aaaaaagh!

HAIJI: Then, I’ll be going now….

GYOUBU: Wait, wait, I’m coming too!

FUTAMI: Hey! You two! Wait a-! Aaaaagh… There is nothing one can do with them… I mean, I made it because they said they wanted to eat it…, what do I do with the red bean soup?!

Translator Notes: (1) He literally calls him tsuntsun (2) He says ‘Ryoichi the adult’, but I felt Ryoichi Mr Adult helped convey his teasing tone 😊 (3) A ‘makizushi party’ is an event where a host teaches the guests how to roll and fill their own sushi rolls (if they don’t know) and everyone comes up with their own versions. I only translated the honorifics when Gyoubu used -chan.

Personal comment: This was a very fun one to do, I especially loved Futami’s dynamics with those two. We didn’t see him interacting that much with Haiji in-game, so I was quite surprised when I heard how softly he spoke to him compared with when he addressed Gyoubu. Again, if you see any errors, don't hesitate to reach out!!! alsothefoodnameswereanightmareohmygod

[ophelia-jones]

Thorns pt 10

*(strong sexual content)*

On the way back to Sanctuary, in order to avoid Negan seeing her sorrow, Lacey pretended to sleep. She rested her head on the back of the seat and stretched out as much as the small cab would allow. She kept her eyes closed and didn't respond when Negan offered to let her lay her head in his lap. She wasn't sure if it was genuinely a kind gesture or just Negan being, well, Negan. 

She was, actually, exhausted, and after they arrived at Sanctuary, as Negan and his men unloaded the supplies they had gathered from Hilltop and the Ramblers, Lacey had a wash and a change of clothes, then as soon as she sat down to think, she cried herself to sleep. Perhaps she just hadn't deserved Daryl, but it still hurt.

To make matters worse, she drifted off to dream of a memory of the first time she realized she had feelings for him - beyond the sexual, which had happened almost immediately. She was, at her core always a sexual person. Perhaps because she had been made aware so young of her sexuality or perhaps it was because she'd had so little physical affection as a child and had craved it her entire life. 

This particular dream, however, was of a simple day in the forest, enjoying the peace and quiet. There were sounds, of course, of birds and crickets, the sound of the spring peepers in the pond. It was the most beautiful music to Lacey's ears. 

She was showing Daryl some of the wildflowers she needed to gather for tea - she had always preferred natures medicine to anything man made and knew what would treat almost any condition.

She was chewing on a clover blossom and she caught him smiling at her, though he glanced away when she looked back at him. Her heart had begun to race and she'd felt as if she might start to float away. It made her feel proud to be admired by the sort of man who was so careful who he gave his time and respect to.

"So, what was it like, up in Michigan?" He asked, and she was surprised again. Daryl was most definitely not one for small talk.  "I mean, all the things you learned about up there can't be exactly the same as we have down here, right?" He brought the conversation back to the matter at hand.

"No, but I know a bit about things down here, like kudzu. Oh, look here! Thats Yellow Wood-sorrel. Taste it." She picked the small yellow flower and held it up to Daryls mouth. He jerked his head back slightly at first to look at what she was trying to get him to eat. 

"That's edible, just like that?" He questioned, his eyes narrowing at her doubtfully. 

"Yes, I'm not trying to poison you." She laughed. "Open up." He still looked doubtful but leaned forward and took the flower from her fingers with his mouth. The feeling of his lips on her fingertips had sent a jolt of electricity straight through her and she had to bite her lip.

He chewed thoughtfully for a moment, then nodded at her, his blue eyes surprised but approving. 

"It's kinda lemony." He said, his hair falling over his face as he looked around the forest floor for more. He picked a few and offered her one, placing it in her mouth as she had done for him. It was a small intimate act, and she knew it meant more than it might coming from anyone else. 

"Did your mom teach you all of this stuff?" Daryl asked, picking another wood-sorrel blossom to chew on.

"No, she was sick, even when I was born. I never really got to know her." She replied. "Even the name she gave me, my family never used." She said with a sad smile.

"She didn't name you Lacey?" Daryl asked, rooting around in the foliage with one foot, eyes down so she didn't feel pressured.

"No. She named me Solace. I don't think my dad or brothers even knew what that meant." She joked.

"Solace, huh?" Daryl said, wiping his dirty hands on his pant legs absent mindedly. "It suits you." He told her, and their eyes locked for one intense moment. Daryl looked away first but Lacey found herself blushing and speechless. 

He'd shown her that he was no novice to foraging himself. He could identify wild asparagus, wild potato vine and ramps. They'd gone back to Alexandria that night with bags full of useful findings.

In this dream, however, instead of finding her way home side by side with Daryl, she found herself alone. It was growing dark and she realized she was unarmed, and once again in the ruined lingerie she had been sent out to die in. 

"Daryl?" She cried out for him, but the only response was the moans of the walkers coming through the woods. Two, then four; soon there were too many to count and she was surrounded. As she struggled to find a way out, a weapon, something to help her; she realized she knew the people these walkers used to be. Her brothers. Friends from before and after the outbreak. And finally, as she turned to flee, she ran straight in to a solid wall of a man - or what had been a man. His mouth, now gaping rather than smiling and his blue eyes now unseeing were the same she had been admiring only moments ago.

As he bent to tear at the flesh of her cheek, she woke screaming out in horror, and she could feel the phantom pain in her cheek still.

The door to her room flew open, Negan appearing in the doorway with Lucille clutched in one hand, looking around for the source of Lacey's screams. He was freshly washed and dressed in a clean white t-shirt and blue jeans, his feet bare and his hair still damp. 

"What in the ever loving blue eyed world is going on?" He demanded, his chest heaving with the effort of slowing his breathing down to normal after being prepared for a fight. 

Lacey, too was breathing heavily, her mind struggling to convince her body that she was safe. 

"I'm sorry. I - I must've had a nightmare." She told him, running a hand through her hair.

"I can't imagine what kind of dream could have you screaming like that." He said, sitting on the corner of the bed.  "I mean, after seeing you in action today? You weren't scared of shit out there. I have to tell you, you were magnificent today."  He smiled his big, wolfish smile at her, his eyes absolutely twinkling. Lacey shook her head at him. "No, I mean it. You were like a God damned Terminator out there. You were Taking. Care. Of. Business!" He bellowed, his head back exaggeratedly.  

"And you," she said, "put a giant target on my back when you pulled that 'second in command' bullshit. Now even the people that didn't want me dead are starting to think about new and creative ways to kill me!" She said, turning and glaring up at him.  She stood and stretched, irritated at the memory of his 'surprise'. 

"You should be flattered, hell, I never even thought about putting a woman in my inner circle before, and you? You I would have leading by my side." Negan stepped in close, inches from Lacey now, looking down at her with that devilish smile and eyes that said he would swallow her whole if he could.

Lacey put her hands on his chest and pushed him away, hard enough to make him take a step backwards, but he came right back grinning. 

"OK, you gotta tell me if this is foreplay, because it is getting hot in here." He licked his lower lip and then bit his tongue as he continued to stand close enough that he was looking straight down at her. 

"Fuck you."

"That's the idea." He said, leaning down and putting his fingers under her chin to kiss her. Lacey slapped him and pushed him again, and he stumbled, laughing back against the wall. She stepped forward and pushed him again until his back was up against the wall. 

"You better mean it if you keep that shit up." He told her but he was still smiling, his brown eyes full of amusement. When she swung at him again, he caught her wrist. She tried to twist free and he caught the other, twisted them both behind her back and spun her until her face was against the wall. 

"Tell me you want me to stop." He whispered in a seductive purr against her ear as he grasped both wrists in one hand and reached up under her shirt with the other to squeeze her breasts, pinching one nipple hard enough to make her whimper.  He leaned down and began to kiss her neck in a spot he knew turned her on. He nipped at the sensitive skin with his teeth and then began to suck gently until she couldn't help but squirm as her knees grew weak and her will even weaker.

"Tell me to stop." He said again as his hand slid down her belly and under the waistline of her loose pajama pants. He let his hand hover over her panties but only touched her feather lightly, smiling against her neck as he felt her move her hips forward, trying to deepen the pressure.

"Tell me what you want." He told her more firmly, pressing his erection against her ass to show her how much he was enjoying this game.  "Do you want me to stop, Lacey?"

Lacey let out a noise of frustration but did not reply. She struggled to break free of his grip on her wrists.

"Do you want me to stop? Or …" he withdrew his hand from her pants and she heard the unbuckling of his belt. Her heart was already racing, yet somehow it began to pound even faster and the rush of heat between her legs had her nearly sweating. She hated that he could do this to her - but damn was he good at it. 

"Tell me what you want, sugar." He nipped her earlobe as he said it. 

"I want… fuck, Negan ok, I want you." He grinned, his nose and forehead  pressed against the side of her face.

"You want me to what?" He teased, and Lacey thrust her hips back, grinding against him. He moaned and chuckled, grinding right back for a moment before pulling his hips back. He slid his hands down her pants again, this time letting his fingers slip below the waistband of her panties. He pressed down hard on her clit with the pads of his first two fingers and made her jump at the pleasure it sent flooding her system. It was like stepping into a hot shower the way her skin flushed; every inch of her was aware of every inch of him.

"Tell. Me." He said one last time, and finally Lacey told him on a breathy whisper.

"I want you to fuck me, Negan. Please." She cried out in frustration when his hand withdrew again, and gasped when he led her by her wrists to the bed he turned her around, both of his arms around her and grasping her wrists still. 

"How do you want me to fuck you?" He asked heatedly, his eyes dark and intense as he looked into her eyes as if he could see everything she was feeling. 

"Hard. I want you to fuck me hard, Negan." She told him, her face lifted up asking to be kissed. He grinned down at her, a wide grin that showed all of his teeth. 

"If you insist." He replied, leaning down to claim her mouth with a bruising kiss. Finally, he released her wrists to slide both hands up in her hair and pull it painfully until he had her at just the angle he wanted her. His tongue was invading her mouth, smooth and firm against her own tongue, and his beard rough against the sensitive skin of her face. He leaned her over the bed until she had to sit, then lay back to keep from falling gracelessly. 

He lifted one of her legs and wrapped it around his waist, pressing deeply against her pussy with the length of his erection covered now only by his boxers as he lowered his jeans and kicked them off. She slid her hands up under his t-shirt over every inch of his slender torso and chest. When she pinched on of his nipples he moaned against her mouth. 

"What do you want, Lacey?" He asked again as he pulled away from her to slide his shirt off, and then tugged hers up over her head. He wrapped an arm around her back and pulled her up to press their chests together, the feeling of his skin against hers making her close her eyes for a moment to just take in his heat. He slid her pants and panties off, and guided her hand down inside his boxers to feel the length of his cock, hard as steel and throbbing under her hand. She grasped him tightly and began to stroke. "Is this what you want?" 

"Yes…"

"What? I didn't catch that." He teased, and Lacey finally cried out in frustration, the need between her legs becoming nearly painful.

"I want your cock, Negan! Please I want you to fuck me hard enough to make me forget my own name!" She whined, loud enough that not only could Negan hear her clearly, but so would anyone in the hall.

"That's my girl." He praised, bending to catch a nipple between his teeth, then soothing his bite with his tongue tracing circles around the aching bud.

"Oh, please…" she moaned, beginning to pump her hand harder against his already impossibly hard member. He rocked his hips into her touch, his fingers spreading her and penetrating her with no sign of gentleness. She cried out again as he buried two fingers over and over again pushing in as fast and deep as possibly and making her spread her legs as wide as they would go and buck her hips against his hand. He withdrew his slippery digits and began to rub her clit roughly, almost brutally hard in deep, fast circles. 

"Oh God damn, oh fuck.." she bucked her hips and met the pressure of his hand with her hips. 

"Say my name." He growled in her ear as she came hard, her arousal dripping down his hand, making sloppy wet sounds as he entered her again and again with two fingers so he could feel the way her pussy spasmed and squeezed against them as she came. 

"Negan!" She sighed, her head thrashing from side to side, her hands grasping at the blankets. "Fuck thats so good!" 

He grinned at her, obviously proud of his performance already. As she gasped for breath, he slid his boxers off and turned her over on her side, laying down behind her. 

"You ready?" He asked in a whisper as he lifted one of her legs over his to open her to him, he ran the tip of his cock along her slippery opening. He hummed a note of pleasure at the feeling.

"Yes!" She whimpered desperately. He slid in, stretching her to her limits with no hesitation, burying himself to the hilt in one hard push. She cried out in pleasure again, pain and pleasure, that was Negan's specialty. He wrapped his fingers in her hair and and began to move his hips, grinding down as deep as he could, she could feel the pressure of him against her cervix. He held her in place as he withdrew to push in again, over and over, stroking the length of her smooth, wet walls as he began to grunt and moan with the effort of holding back his own impending climax. His hand released her hair and slid around to her throat wrapping around it firmly; her head was tilted back, one of his long fingers resting on the underside of her chin while the others began to squeeze gently. 

"Show me where you touch yourself when you think of me." He said in her ear and he felt the hot wet rush of excitement where they were joined. She did as he asked and placed the pads of her fingers against her clit and touched it lightly, flicking back and forth slightly before she ground her hips down against him and squeezed against his cock in wave after wave of pleasure.

"Shit, sugar you're fucking delicious, I can't … ohh… I can't get enough of you… his hips built up speed mercilessly until finally with a strangled cry he thrust one last time and she could feel the throbbing and the heat of wave after wave of his release. He buried his face in the crook of her neck and shoulder and struggled to catch his breath for a long moment before pulling out. He chuckled as he kissed her bare skin along her shoulder and hummed a note of satisfaction, his hand sliding down from her throat to cup her breasts.

"You. Are. Something!" He told her, his breath still coming in quick, short bursts, his chest pressing against her back as it swelled with great gasping breaths and then shrank again quickly. The friction of it was almost too much for her now over stimulated skin.

She closed her eyes and caught her breath. How could she keep falling under his spell? How could he be such a complex mix of pain and pleasure for her? He held her close against his chest in a possessive embrace.

"You are going to need fresh sheets." He said, his voice both amused and proud of himself. She giggled slightly, a bit giddy with hormones. She could feel her eyes grow heavy, so heavy she could barely keep them open, and so she gave in and was asleep again in minutes. She did not dream.

[mangodestroyer]

I don't know, it kind of gets exhausting feeling like I HAVE to get stoned every night. Lest I end up becoming an ABSOLUTE MESS full of self-hatred. Constantly, CONSTANTLY thinking about how so many things have gone so wrong throughout my life.

I mean, I literally stayed away from weed for six months to see if it would make this go away. It didn't fucking work! It's not even a physically addictive drug, but being off of it just didn't do shit to make me feel less dependent on it!

So I eat an edible packed full of CBD and CBN: I relax for the evening watching stuff I like and listening to music. It makes these experiences so enjoyable! Same with eating. I fall asleep a lot easier. I don't have a Goddamn care in the world.

The day after: I'm a happy-go-lucky mf. I feel confident and relaxed. Ready to take on whatever the world throws at me. I have no problem talking to people and don't second guess myself. The words just flow. I look in the mirror and I feel gorgeous. I like myself and find myself charming. I get shit done without a problem in the world. I feel like people like me. I don't care if I don't really have close connections. I just happily exist. And the world looks so pretty!

24 hours after getting stoned: I hate myself. I feel so anxious! I feel like everyone hates me. I doubt myself. I look in the mirror and feel like a hideous abomination. I feel so socially inept and awkward. I think about every horrible thing people have said and done to me. I... have urges to do horrible things to myself. I can't get myself to feel better no matter what. I think about how other people have close, healthy relationships and lots of friends. And I don't! Never have!

The second one is currently me. I've been sober for 48 hours. I. Just. Feel. Like. Shit. I literally look at some of the most unlikable, horrible people on the planet and think, "This must be how people see me. They get this vibe from me. They find me vile and disgusting! This is why I am so often treated like crap! I am IMPOSSIBLE to love! I will NEVER be special to anyone! I will NEVER earn anyone's respect! I will NEVER DO anything worthy of respect! No one cares! I am no one's priority and never will be! I'm an unfortunate accident that just happens to people! It doesn't matter whether or not I'm malicious. I am SHIT!"

It's like I live in two different realities these days. One where I feel so great about everything, am content with dealing with the world on my own, and treat life like it's for me to conquer. In the second reality, I am actual, forsaken trash that exists to be hurt.

And no, it wasn't great before I ever touched the stuff either. Around the time I was almost 18, I just started feeling like this. I had some semblance of it as soon as the age of ten. It's only gotten worse over the years. Then I ate an edible for the first time ever at 21. It reminded me of how I felt as a young child. Blissful and hopeful about the world. Being able to enjoy things on such a deep level. How could I resist such happiness?

And like I said, nothing else has ever worked. Nothing! Not therapy, not talking myself out of it, not things that are supposed to help you "feel better." Nothing! Because really, at what point in my 24 years of life have things worked out in a functional way? I have to reiterate that I've never had a deep, healthy connection with anyone. I'm still dealing with things that are constantly retraumatizing me. It feels like my brain is now broken.

And it's a vicious cycle. I'm a very paranoid mess these days. At least I can admit to that much at times. I'm too afraid to seek help again because I'm afraid I either won't be taken seriously, or I will get diagnosed with something very bad. Something that will make it so medical professionals will never take me seriously again. It doesn't help with all those "unlikable freak" feelings I have either. I'm also constantly worried that people can tell something isn't right with me. And that it probably makes them uncomfortable. Or maybe they don't even notice and they actually just don't like me.

All I know is that I am beyond tired of living like this. I just want to know how I can get the extreme self-hatred properly addressed. What's the wise way of going about this?

[driverlando]

heyy - welcome to my masterlist, here you’ll find all my fics. reblogs and feedback are greatly appreciated! 18+ only! Red indicates smaus

— LANDO NORRIS [click for concepts]

⩩┊Oh, the romance - Lando and y/n finally find a moment to themselves so it’s only right that Lando shows off his romantic skills (Lando Norris x f!reader smut)

⩩┊Pr nightmare - all the times Y/n has been horny on main for Lando

⩩┊Pr nightmare 2 - some more times Y/n has been horny on main for Lando

⩩┊Pr nightmare 3 - all the times Lando has been horny on main for Y/n

⩩┊Sixty-nine - y/n is a singer and Lando is the muse for her latest single

⩩┊#Landoleaks - Lando said your sex tape was for his eyes only…until it wasn’t

⩩┊Partner swap - Carlos and Lando are caught in a partner swap scandal

⩩┊After Hours - I’ll risk it all for you, I want you next to me (bad boy/biker!lando x waitress!reader)

Sub!lando getting head and being whiny

Fake dating Lando slow burn

Lando + forbidden love

Ines wears another teams merch

Falling asleep with your head on his lap

You send him some spicy pics whilst he’s at the gym

He eats you out for the first time

— CHARLES LECLERC [click for concepts]

⩩┊Good girl - Charles fucks you infront of a mirror and calls you good girl which has an effect on you (Charles Leclerc x f!reader smut)

⩩┊A reward for the champ - you give Charles the perfect end to an unforgettable night (Charles Leclerc x f!reader smut)

⩩┊Two best friends in a room - you and charles are two bestfriends, but over the years you become more (Charles Leclerc x singer!reader)

⩩┊Fast and frightful - charles fellow drivers doubt he’s actually going out with you, until you both make a grand gesture in the paddock (actress!reader x Charles Leclerc)

⩩┊Pr disaster - all the times y/n has been horny on main for Charles

⩩┊Family first - In which Charles and Y/n have had enough of the paparazzi standing outside their house

— OSCAR PIASTRI [click for concepts]

⩩┊Totally us - sometimes sex isn’t all sunshine and flowers, you and Oscar know that better then anyone else

⩩┊Baby Piastri - in which everyone speculates whether you and Oscar have had your baby or not (Oscar Piastri x wife/model!reader)

⩩┊Pr headache - all the times y/n has been horny on main for Oscar

⩩┊Pr headache 2 - some more times y/n has been horny on main for Oscar

⩩┊Secretly yours - you sneak around with Oscar, your brothers best friend

⩩┊#NudeGate - Oscar accidentally posts a nude on his instagram story

⩩┊The fan diaries - in which nothing escapes the eyes of the devoted

awkward!oscar + flirting

you and Oscar cockwarming early in the morning

angry sex with Oscar to release pent up frustration

dom!oscar saying “hold onto the headboard”

dom!oscar holding you down whilst eating you out

first time with Oscar

you wear a necklace Oscar gifted you before you began dating

friends to lovers with Oscar

your bruise easily so Oscar shows you some love

— CARLOS SAINZ [click for concepts]

⩩┊Pr problem - all the times y/n has been horny on main for Carlos

⩩┊Partner swap - Carlos and Lando are caught in a partner swap scandal

cockwarming Carlos whilst he’s on a racing sim

Carlos touches you whilst driving

Carlos shows some love to his good luck charm

Carlos is your Spanish teacher, he rewards you by touching you

Carlos loves teasing you and hearing you beg

— MAX VERSTAPPEN [click for concepts]

⩩┊Pr issue - all the times y/n has been horny on main for Max

⩩┊#BabyVerstappen - Max accidentally leaks the news of your pregnancy during an interview and he breaks the internet

you ride his thigh

feeling sore on the private jet

he pulls out and cums on your stomach

the aftermath of the pull out method

Max punishes you

Port authorities find you and max skinny dipping

Max catches you telling the wags about the edibles you both had during summer break

— OTHERS

⩩┊Pr Training: 0% - all the times y/n has been horny on main for Logan Sargeant

George loves when you wear heels

[independentzaun]

For the object meme: homemade edibles.

Did Silco vaguely remember some mention Jhin made of being able to cook, and in fact being willing to cook for Silco and perhaps even his people? Yes. However had Silco expected the tall man to actually show up with food let alone edibles? Not particularly no. When the box of edibles was placed on his desk with Jhin somehow managing to look like a hopeful puppy despite that ever present mask on his face Silco had considered it, and if he trusted Jhin enough to eat something the man cooked. Sevika was there as well positioned behind Jhin, and unseen to anyone but Silco gave a shrug before nodding. As much as Jhin irritated her, and she’d happily rip his mask off and toss him onto the street with how he was quite obviously interested in Silco unless she very much misunderstood some of his questions and comments Sevika didn’t think he’d poison Silco.

As it so happened Silco didn’t really think Jhin would either. If only because something about that felt almost anticlimactic, and he doubted Jhin would be that boring. The man could be obsessive, and irritating but he had at least some style.

Reaching out Silco took one of the edibles, and breaking it in half ate one portion. It wasn’t as though he had any personal issues with drugs after all, and although it had been a while it wouldn’t be the first time he’d had an edible. Waving for Jhin to sit down Silco waited for it to kick in as the two made small talk. Eventually Sevika moved forward and getting a nod from Silco she actually took one of the edibles before sitting on the coffee table as she had no interest in sitting next to Jhin and ate it herself. Of course one of the edibles was also offered to Jhin himself.

It took a little while for them to hit, but not too long and blinking Silco let out a soft chuckle. Body relaxing he rolled his shoulders sinking just a bit into his chair while reaching out for a cigarette. “You used the good stuff. Did you bring it from Ionia, or something?” It wasn’t often he felt quite so relaxed, or comfortable and noticeably his frequent shifting in his chair trying to get more comfortable ceased. Taking a drag off of his smoke Silco reached out breaking the second portion of his edible into two halves, and ate one of them so the effect would last longer without intensifying too much more with any luck. “Last time I had something like this there was someone on their knees in front of…” His idle murmur was cut off by Sevika as she sighed. “Silco, really?” She didn't really care one way or another about what he’d done particularly as she herself was feeling just as relaxed, and her poncho had gotten pulled off as she kind of half laid down on the coffee table resting on one arm. However she didn’t want him giving Jhin any ideas especially while she was in the room, and didn't feel like making her way downstairs.

[teecupangel]

From @decaffeinedduck

I love how we all agree Altair can't cook

This overachiever needs to have at least one funny weakness for my sanity XD

Although I think it is less of Altaïr not being able to cook and more of him thinking that throwing everything in a pot counts as stew and it’s edible enough so he can have more time with other more important things like training or reading.

From @knine-nights-loves-ac

I Wanna imagine Desmond remaking something from Ezio and just getting progressively more annoyed that he can’t get it quite right until he’s literally just cursing in Italian wondering why the fuck the ratios of the spices are off

“I would like to start his video with an apology for the latter part of last video which is mostly be being censored every two or three words in. And Becs would like to apologize for not censoring two different ways I said [censored]. In Becs’ defense, my Italian is created from a marriage of someone from Florence and someone from Tuscany soooooo…”

The audio picked up someone clearing their throat from behind the camera.

Desmond sighed and rubbed his face once before continuing, “Anyway, so I lost my cool because these!”

Desmond placed the herbs and spices that he had used-

No.

He had tried to use in the last video.

“So these [censored] that you can find in supermarkets? They’re fake-”

“Desmond!” Someone hissed from behind the camera, making Desmond take a deep breath.

His next words had a hint of Italian accent that was slowly getting thicker.

“These do not taste anything like they should taste. I don’t know if it’s because they’re dried and powdered, I doubt it, that sounds something, or they added some other [censored] into this puta[censooooorrrreeeeeeddddddddd].”

The video changes to the logo of Desmond’s Youtube Channel and the words “we are having technical difficulties. Please bear with us while we (and by we, I mean me) try to fix this”

The screen stays on with a soft string music for about two minutes before returning to Desmond who was now just sitting with his hands on his face.

He took another deep breath before dropping his hands, his accent returning to his usual American accent as he said, “Sorry about that, guys. Anyway, if you really want your food to taste like it did during the Renaissance, I would suggest checking your local farmers’ market for people who sell the actual good shit [a censor that immediately stopped because the one pushing the censor button realized he missed his mark, damn it].”

“Next week, let’s go with a comforting soup that my ancestor during the American Revolutions would make when he was traveling.” Desmond waved as he said, “I’ll see you guys next week.”

.

Most upvoted comment:

“Sooooooo… anyone wants to see Desmond just lose his shit after eating ‘Italian’ fast food?” Reply: “I would pay to see him just eat Chicago pizza. I’m sure his Italian ancestor’s going to possess him again and give us that sexy Italian accent.”

so i have this idea in a Desmond lives au after the solar flare he starts a channel like tasting history with max miller in which he recreates historical dishes that his ancestors used to make with Shaun and Rebecca appearing by tasting what he makes

(The video starts with a man addressing the video in a beautiful clean kitchen)

“So this isn’t my usual content but I’ve got a lot of requests to do a reaction video on this youtube channel called ‘I Am Not My Ancestors’ where he recreates recipes he got from his ancestors. At least, that’s what he claims. A lot of you asked me to check if his recipes are what a household from that time period would make and I asked Desmond, he’s the owner of I’m Not My Ancestor channel if he’s alright with me reacting to them and I received his permission.”

“I’d like to make it clear that he has no hand in any of my reactions. This will be the first time I’m watching the videos I’d be reacting to and there’s no script, we didn’t talk about what I should say or what I shouldn’t say. I can even show you guys his actual reply to my email.”

(The video cuts to some kind of recorder, most probably a phone camera, aimed at the screen of a monitor showing an opened email)

Subject: Re: Requesting permissions to react to your videos

Sender: Desmond M iamnotmyancestor@yahoo.com

yeah go ahead man.

(The video returns to the man in the kitchen)

“So with his permission… let’s check out some of his videos, shall we?”

(The video changed. On the lower left corner is the same man, now wearing earbuds. The rest of the video appears to be a screen recording of the Youtube Channel ‘I Am Not My Ancestors’. The mouse clicks on the Cooking Playlist and clicks a video titled “What an Assassin from 12th Century That Can’t Cook Cooks”)

(The video changes to a normal looking kitchen with a young man. A prominent scar mars his lips and his eyes seemed to glow gold at certain angles although it looked mostly light brown)

“So… I’ve been focusing on Renaissance Italy food for a while now and I thought I’d branch out and make something my other ancestors made. Then I remembered my ancestor from 12th century Syria doesn’t know how to cook.” The man said as he placed his hands on the counter, “But, well, let’s try it anyway.”

(The video continues with the man listening down all the ingredients he’d be using to make what he calls ‘road food’)

(The video is paused and the man on the lower left begins to speak)

“Okay, so this is one of his latest videos and I just want to talk about all the ingredients he’s using for this… ‘road food’. All of these can be bought in Syria and I’ve seen all of them used in different dishes in historical cook books. The more important part is that all of these? Can be found in the wilds during those time and I believe that he’ll tell us that these ingredients are used because they don’t cost any money, only time and a discerning eye. Let’s see if I’m right.”

(The video plays once more)

“You can also change any of the things I listed to whatever wild plants to find on your way. Normally, if your mission takes you to a place that’s more than a day ride away-”

“By horse.” Someone off camera added.

“Yeah, by horse. Thanks, Becs. Anyway, if it’s more than a day ride away, what you usually do is stay in a nearby bureau- hm? Oh, right. A bureau is what the Assassins call their… mini headquarters in other places. So they have their headquarters in Masyaf, Alamut and Ḥalab and they have bureaus on other places as well.”

(The video paused and the man on the lower left speaks once more)

“While I can’t verify his claims, the Nizaris of which the Assassins are from did have strongholds in Masyaf, Alamut and this Ḥalab is more known as Aleppo to many of us. Anyway, let’s continue.”

(The video is played once more)

“But sometimes, you go to a far away place and the supplies they give you is lacking because Al Mualim is a stingy old man who’ll tell you that ‘an Assassin must triumph over’ this kind of bullshit so you learn to live off eating game and grass-”

(The video is paused and the man on the lower left commented)

“I believe this Al Mualim he speaks of is Rashid al-Din Sinan, known as the Old Man of the Mountain. From the way he speaks, it’s either he knows Rashid himself. Or, of course, he has a journal of his ancestor who has certain words to describe Rashid. I’m sure it’s the latter.”

(The video plays once more)

“So this is what Al-”

“Your ancestor.”

(The man on the lower left tilts his head but does not pause the video)

“My ancestor would make during those ‘tiring’ times.”

(The video continues as the man starts to cook, starting from preparing a small game and then… throwing it and all the other ingredients in a pot. The man on the lower left stared at him with an open mouth.)

“Yeah, that’s it. Just wait until the meat is cooked. While you wait, you should patrol the area, check your map, write on your journal… the usual stuff.”

(The video transitions to the same place but the man is now on his phone, seemingly tapping on the screen.)

“Desmond… isn’t it cooked yet?”

“Hm? Oh, yeah. I told you guys this is the easiest shit my ancestors can cook. This is also the only thing Alta-”

“Your ancestor.”

“My ancestor can’t fucked up. Anyway, let’s have Shaun try it out.”

(As the man grabs a bowl and pours the soup in it, a man with glasses stepped to the frame with arms crossed)

“Guys, say hello to Shaun, our resident taste tester and the actual historian in our little group.”

“I’ve been tasting everything you make for these videos. They already know who I am.”

“Yeah, yeah, just taste this.”

(The man with glasses took the bowl and blew his spoon before taking a mouthful. He chewed for a moment before nodding.)

“It’s okay.”

“You're British, of course you think the lack of flavor is okay.”

“Hey.”

“Anyway, the main point of this dish is to sustain us. Good food will always be welcomed but what we need is the nutrients and energy food gives us. After we get to the bureau, we’ll have some actual good food.”

(The video pauses and changes to only show the man in the beautiful kitchen)

“Okay, so let’s talk about the recipe itself…”

(The video continues as the man list down all the ingredients and where they have appeared in historical books, referencing other recipes similar to the recipe that the video used)

“I think I should watch more videos, maybe one of his Renaissance Italy videos because it seems like this ancestor of his is quite… the ‘frugal’ and practical kind. Let me know in the comments which videos you’d like me to watch nex-

(The video stops and the laptop closes)

“Desmond, he called Altaïr frugal and practical.”

“Not because he wanted to. What do you think he did when he was traveling with Maria? That man tried out every food he saw.”

(is this in the same universe as #Da Vinci's secret lover Not-Salai? Maybe? Maybe not? idk)

[beels-burger-babe]

Of Jealousy and Friendship - Pt. 1

Topic number 2 won in the vote to be written next! So without further-a-do, let’s get going!...This ended up being a two part thing. Oh Well. Here’s part one. - B GN! MC Summary: MC makes a lower demon friend who may secretly be hoping for something more than friendship. The Demon Bros are not about to let this happen. Part Two: Here, Epilogue: Here It all started in magical potions. When you first arrived, the course wasn’t so bad since you took it with Beelzebub. The two of you always partnered up; the hour would consist of you jokingly scolding Beel for trying to eat ingredients and making light hearted jokes with one another whenever the teacher turned their back.  But once the second semester started, Beel was moved out of the course as it had gotten too expensive to keep him in a class where most of the subject matter was edible.  Which left you alone and bored in the classroom as the teacher went on and on about Mandrake roots and what they can be used for. You let out a heavy sigh and plopped your forehead onto the desk.  A soft snort came from beside you. You glanced over to see a demon with his feet propped up on his desk staring right back at you out of the corner of his dark green eyes. He smiled at you with a tilt of his head.  “The lectures are a total snooze fest right? I joined this class cause I thought we’d be making potions and causing stuff to explode. Not sitting here twisting our thumbs all day.” 

You bit back a laugh as you worried glanced over at the professor, who was none-the-wiser to the little conversation the two of you were sharing. You looked back over to the demon. His dark skin caused those hauntingly green eyes of his pop out at all who met his gaze, with carefully trimmed and styled black curls sitting stylishly on the top of his head.  There was a playful and mischievous energy to him that reminded you of Belphie, Asmo and Mammon.  “Unfortunately suffering through this section of class is mandatory to be allowed to mess around with the fun stuff.”  The demon groaned and threw his head back. “Urgh, that’s so unfair. What’s the worst that can happen? The potion explodes and kills us? Newsflash teach, we’re already dead.”  You couldn’t help the laugh that slipped out at that one.  “Well actually the worse that could happen, for you at least as I am a very mortal human, is that you’d suffer the consequences from one of the potions. Anything from shrinking to de-aging to charms, all kinds of things. I’ve seen the effects of a potion gone wrong a number of times during my time down here. Trust me; you don’t want to be on the receiving end.”  He looked over at you with an analytical eye as the corners of his lips tilted upwards. “So you’re the human that everyone’s talking about.” He trailed off, and glanced over at the teacher to make sure they weren’t looking before stretching out his hand towards you. “I’m Cane. You know despite being the talk of RAD, I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone mention your name?”  You took his hand into your own and lightly shook it. “I’m MC.” 

Cane leaned back into his chair, “It’s a pleasure to finally put a name and face to that glowing reputation of yours, MC. I see your pretty good at this potions thing, and I hear that you’re a lot of fun. How about you meet me downtown for supper later and we can study and get to know each other a little better?”  Your initial instinct was to agree, but then you paused as you thought of the brothers. “I don’t know. I don’t think that Lucifer or the others would like it much if I went out on my own.”  The demon huffed and light heartedly rolled his eyes. “You won’t be alone, you’ll be with me. I may not be as powerful as them, but I’m still a pretty good fighter.” He teasingly placed a gentle punch onto your shoulder, “Besides, it’s not like they’re boss of you. Are you really going to let a bunch of snobby Lords keep you from making the best of your time in the Devildom?”  That last remark hit a nerve. If there was one thing that had spread quite quickly about you around RAD, it was that you were known for being a little reckless, prideful, and never being able to back down from a challenge, and boy did that statement have you itching to prove him wrong.  You smiled, a sharp dangerous smile, at Cane. “I’ll go. And we’re going to do so much more than just go to a lame restaurant and study. You want to have fun and take risks? We’ll have fun and take risks. Whatever you want to do...to a degree,” you added in quickly remembering that you were talking to a demon and if you didn’t implement any boundaries there was no telling what you’d get yourself into, “I’m in.”  Cane’s eyes sparkled as his smile widened. “Damn. I guess it’s true that you’re a bit of dare devil. Alright, you’re on. Meet me at Hell’s Kitchen a 4pm. We’ll study and hit the books as promised, but afterwards...Get ready for the night of your life.”  ***

The brothers were concerned. You had rushed into the House of Lamentation after school and sprinted to your room, changed out of your uniform and promptly shouted that you were “going out” before taking off before any of them could complain.  Mammon had tried to argue that someone should follow you, and while that wasn’t a terrible idea, Lucifer wanted to give you the question of the doubt. Worst case scenario, you come back home a little scratched up and learn your lesson about taking off into the dangers of the Devildom.  At least that’s what he had thought when you had initially left.  It was now bordering midnight, and you had yet to return home.  So yeah, the brothers were very concerned.  Mammon was pacing and ranting about how this all could’ve been avoided if they had only listened to him for once.  Leviathan was trying to distract himself with his game, but everyone could see the worried glances he kept throwing to the entrance and clock as the minutes ticked by.  Satan sat near where Mammon and would occasionally scold or correct him, and sometimes even throw in his own ideas on what could be done while he thumbed through a book on location spells.  Asmodeus was strangely quiet, sitting near the fire by himself with arms wrapped around his torso as he stared into the flames. He would occasionally move a hand to wipe at his face before it went right back to hugging himself.  Beelzebub had lost his appetite. He sat next to Belphie, taking comfort in his twin’s presence, while Belphegor pretended to be unbothered and asleep, even though his mind was racing with the many stupid situations you could’ve gotten yourself into.  And Lucifer...He just sat in a door near the entryway, his eyes fixed on the entrance as he silently waited.  Finally, just as the clock stroke midnight, they could hear your recognizable laugh from behind the door.  “Oh my god! That was incredible! I don’t think I’ve ever had so much fun in life!” Leviathan stiffened at the statement, his hands gripping tighter onto his game.  “What did I tell you? I promised you the night of your life, and I sure as Diavolo always make sure to deliver,” everyone froze at the sound of the teasing male voice. “Though I didn’t expect the Seven Lords’ precious human to be a complete bad ass. You were amazing out there.”  Leviathan mumbled something before getting up and leaving the room. Mammon growled lowly and looked at the others, “Anyone know who the hell that is?”  Asmo finally stood, wiping at his face as he did, and began to stride towards the door, “Why don’t we find out?”  Without waiting for a response, Asmodeus swung the door open and pulled on a bright smile as he reached out and wrapped an arm around you. “MC, darling, you didn’t tell me you were bringing over guests! Don’t tell me you’re trying to have fun without me?”  You blinked up at the Asmo before smiling softly at his tactics. “Oh, hey Asmo! I didn’t expect you to be up. Cane here was just dropping me off.”  The demon in question didn’t even so much as stiffen as Asmodeus’s dangerous stare shifted over to him. Instead Cane stood there, relaxed, with a shit-eating grin on his face. Asmodeus raised an eyebrow at him and allowed a bit of his demonic aura to exude around him. “Oh really? At this time of night? Makes a demon wonder what kind of mischief the two of you had gotten up to,” while maintaining eye contact with Cane, Asmo rested his chin against your shoulder. “You know dear, if you wanted “fun” that badly all you had to do was ask. I assure you I could’ve shown you a much better time.” He purred and softly kissed your shoulder.  You shivered, missing the way Asmo stiffened as he noticed something, and swatted at the Avatar of Lust as you moved away from him. “Down Asmo. It’s nothing like that. Cane’s in my magical potions class. We went out to study together and decided to hit a couple clubs while we were out. No biggy.”  “If it’s ‘no biggy’ then why were you out all night without giving us any kind of warning of where you were going or how long you’d be out?” Everyone whirled around as Lucifer stood in the doorway with a frown etched on his face and his arms crossed. He took a step closer to you before freezing mid-step, his nose twitching. His eyes flared red as they fell onto Cane. The lower demon tensed and curled his hands into fists, but seemed to be refusing to back down. Lucifer snarled, “What exactly was it that you said the two of you were up to tonight?”  You frowned and stepped between Lucifer and your new friend. “Hey! Stop it! He didn’t do anything, if that’s what you’re implying. And I wasn’t aware that I needed permission for every single thing that I do!” You snapped poking his chest as you moved into his space. “So excuse me for wanting to go out and enjoy myself for once!”  Whatever fear Cane had been showing, quickly slipped away at seeing you stand your ground against the mighty first born. “Yeah. What they said.”  Lucifer growled and caught your hand into his own, pulling you close and leaning in, “You’d be wise to remember that you are in the Devildom and surrounded by beings that have no where near as good intentions as you’d assume. Being so reckless and naïve down here could get you killed again, I thought you had learned that.” His tone was cold and unapologetic as he practically spat the words in your face.  You glared at Lucifer as you yanked your hand out of his grasp. There was so many things you wanted to say to him, but none of them would be right to say in front of an audience. You huffed and turned to face Cane. “I am so sorry about those two. Thanks again for tonight and bringing me home. I’ll see you tomorrow in class, okay?”  Cane gave you a side smile as he scratched the back of his neck. “It’s nothing. I had a great time hanging out with you. Hopefully we can do again...under better circumstances. Goodnight MC.” He took a step towards you and pulled you into a hug.  You smiled, wondering how Lucifer and Asmo could be stirring up such a fuss about a guy who had been nothing but kind to you, and gently hugged him back.  What you couldn’t see, was Cane making direct eye contact with the two other demons, as one of his wrists gently brushed up and down you back and he very lightly nuzzled, so lightly that you could just barely feel it, his face against your neck.  “Hey, what’s takin’ everyone so- WHAT THE ABSOLUTE FUCK?!” Mammon stormed forward and yanked you out of the demon’s embrace, already changing into his demon form. “Who the hell do you think you are scenting our human, huh?!” He lifted Cane off the ground by the collar of his shirt, causing the lower demon growl as he scratched at Mammon’s hands.  You yanked on Mammon’s jacket and arms and tried to get him to back off. “Woah! Mammon, relax! It was just a hug!”  “No it wasn’t,” Satan grumbled as he and the rest of the brothers (excluding Leviathan who was now sulking in his room) stood in the door way. ���The fact that you don’t know that makes this even worst. But this isn’t a conversation we should be having out here.” Beel stared down at the demon with a fierce glare. “You should leave while you’re still able. And if you know what’s best for you, you’ll stay away from MC.”  “Wha- Beel! Cut that out!”  Cane took a step backwards, fear beginning to spill into his expression as he finally realizes just how out-powered and out-numbered he is. Still, he was stubborn pain in the ass; it was part of the reason he had been so drawn to you in the first place as he related to your reckless habits. He held Beelzebub’s glare and returned it with one of his own. “I think that MC can choose for themself who they do and do not hang out with, thanks. They already said they wanted to see me tomorrow so they will. We’re friends after all. And classmates,” his grin sharpened as he continued. “I do have to thank you, Lord Beelzebub, for that opening in magical potions by the way. Never would’ve got in if you hadn’t been kicked out.”  Before he could say anymore, he was met with a punch in the face. Belphegore lazily shook out his hand and his looked at Cane with an unbothered expression. “I believe we told you to leave. Now get. The. Fuck. Out.”  Cane scoffed and turned to you once more. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow, Dare Devil.”  You would’ve snorted at the nickname, but you were to distracted from the brother’s behavior. “Yeah. I’ll see you tomorrow. Get home safe, Cane.” With another nod, the demon left; leaving you alone with six of the seven brothers bubbling with jealousy, anger, and concern.

[graniairish]

Walking on eggshells

So this is my first own story here. I hope it is written in an understandable way. (Please ignore any grammatical errors. English is not my mother tongue.)

Title: Walking on eggshells

Words: 6761

Warnings: language (some explicit words), harassment and insults, heartbreak

Summary:

Daryl and reader have been close friends since the early days in Atlanta. They are deeply in love with each other but have no clue about it.

At some point new people join the community, including a young woman who is immediately after Daryl.

Reader is not exactly thin, no size zero, but also not fat, rather curvy, feminine. Even in this apocalyptic time. (you are just the way you are.)

Daryl has withdrawn more and more from reader, avoids contact. Reader believes he does that because he now has a perfect woman by his side.

However, Daryl avoids reader because he does not know how to deal with his feelings.

One day reader goes on a run that goes wrong. To save their group, the reader does a suicide stunt, that can cost her life.

--------------------------------------------------

"Ya even know what ya're doin’?"

Those were the first words Daryl Dixon had ever said to you.

It was still at camp in Atlanta. Daryl stood over you, the sun behind him, as he looked down at you as you made a stew from a basket full of leaves and mushrooms.

“Believe it or not, I know what I'm doing here. My mother taught me as a child which mushrooms and plants are edible, and which can be used as medicine."

He nudged his nose up in a nod.

"If ya say so."

With that he dropped something in front of you.

"Maybe the whole thin’ tastes like somethin’ with that," he said before he turned around and made his way back to his brother.

Your eyes followed him - confused. Only then did you notice that he had thrown about a dozen freshly hunted squirrels in front of you.

Maybe the grumpy redneck was not that bad after all, you thought to yourself with a smile as you started to skin and gut the dead animals.

It was not long before a friendship developed between you. You were the only one he really let near him after the disappearance of his brother and Sophia's death. And after the farm was overrun by Walkers, he was by your side to comfort you.

He was always there for you, just as you were for him. You cared for each other.

But you only noticed how deep the feelings really were on your side when Daryl - after the incident with Woodbury - had turned his back on you and everyone else and disappeared into the woods. Just to be with his brother.

The realization that you were infinitely in love with the withdrawn redneck hit you hard. And just seeing him walk away hurt you so much that you could not breathe.

Without knowing it, Daryl had broken your heart into a million pieces.

It felt like he took a part of you with him.

More and more you withdrew from the others. From time to time, you even slept in the old management office of the Prison, far away from the cell block, from everyone else, from your family. You just wanted to be left alone in your grief and heartbreak.

In the first time you had gone through hell emotionally and a psychological breakdown would not have been long in coming. And if it had not been for Maggie, you probably would not have found your way back.

She had been your solid rock and, without you really noticing, had become your best friend - your sister.

And after a while it got better. It did not hurt that much anymore. Although it was not quite true. It still hurt - hurt infinitely - but the distances that those waves of grief hit you grew larger.

And then suddenly Daryl was back.

It was a shock to you.

And the moment he moved back into his cell in the cell block, you moved out. There was no trace of you or your belongings in the whole building anymore.

Quietly, and without anyone noticing, you moved into the management's office - permanently. The thought of being so close to him - physically - without actually being able to be close to him was just unbearable for you.

And so you had retreated.

Daryl did not seem to mind. It almost seemed as if he had not even really noticed it.

You hardly had any contact with each other. He rarely talked to you, and if he did, then only what was necessary and as monosyllabic as possible. He even seemed to be avoiding you.

But that's how life works - hard and unfair.

And you cannot choose who to fall in love with.

The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return. But it only worked like that in movies and love songs, right? It did not work that way in real life, at least not for you.

As time goes by you had devoted all your concentration to your small farm. Your mother taught you how to handle plants as a child. In your previous life - before the apocalypse - you also had a vegetable garden with which you mostly tended yourself. So you knew the job and it was easy for you.

You lived in your own little world where you worked side by side with Rick and spent your meager free time with Maggie. Sometimes Carol would join you, but you had already noticed that she somehow always dropped a few comments about Daryl.

You did not want to talk about the redneck, let alone think about him. So, you ignored her as best you could - or at least her suggestions.

But it was not that easy. Your whole prison family knew how deep your feelings were for Daryl. No matter how hard you try to hide it, hide yourself from it.

Then Woodbury fell. New people came to the Prison and with them a young woman - Michelle. Probably only in her mid-twenties, model type, blonde, pretty. A typical homecoming queen.

To you, she made it seem like she had never worked hard in her entire life. She was the type of person who always muddled through, for her own benefit.

And just a few days after moving in, she was permanently on Daryl's heels. She asked questions, talked to him, spent most of the days near him.

But worst of all, she was openly flirting with the man you loved, and he did not seem to mind. Your stomach cramped painfully at the sight, and you had not been able to eat for two days.

Your heart, painstakingly patched together, broke one more time. After that you had avoided Daryl and his blond girl for almost a week, avoided them like the devil had shunned holy water.

But it could not go on like that. And at a certain point you realized: as long as Daryl was happy, nothing else mattered. At least for you.

To make matters worse, there was that cruel little voice in your head that kept whispering to you why Daryl was interested in Michelle and not you. It kept talking to you, all the time.

And then the little wheels in your head started spinning until you were caught in a vortex of thoughts.

She was thin and delicate; you were rather well built.

Her shoulders were narrow; yours were broad.

Her stomach was flat; but you had unmistakable love handles.

She had a firm, shaped ass; you childbearing hips - as your mother used to call it.

Her golden blonde hair always fell in gentle waves down her back. You always had your y/h/c ones in a messy bun. And after hours of hard work in the gardens, you always looked like a half-plucked chicken.

You would never have any chance of comparing yourself with this beautiful, gorgeous woman. Michelle was perfect.

You were just you.

But the worst part of this whole thing was that this woman could not leave you alone. She had won, the man was hers. What else did she want from you?!

Every now and then she dropped small comments, out of the earshot of others. But so that you could hear them very well.

"Hard to believe how one can be so well fed.”

“Are you secretly eating your way through our supplies?"

"Given your size, a whole bunch of Walkers could get fed up with you for a week."

It hurt, hurt infinitely. But you were willing to endure everything. You did not want to make a scene. Did not want to get upset, maybe to draw more unwanted attention to yourself.

In the depths of your heart, you only wanted one thing. You just wanted Daryl to be happy. Everything else does not matter to you.

But what you failed to notice in all your self-doubt and self-sacrifice was: Daryl was not happy.

You were both blind to each other's intentions, had no idea why the other acted the way he was doing.

But the inner circle of your family, especially Maggie and Carol, knew what was going on. And having to watch the two of you - while you did not notice it yourself - slowly but surely drove everyone to despair.

The whole thing was like a fucking soap opera!

You and Daryl had barely spent time together and avoided each other as best you could, so you had not noticed all the little signs that spoke volumes to all the others.

How his ears turn red when you have been near him.

How he sometimes looked at you a little longer than others.

How he changed his shifts in the guard tower just so he could take care of you when you were near the fences during your work.

The moment Daryl faced you for the first time since his return, the floor was torn from under his feet. When he saw your y/e/c eyes looking at him, he felt his heart swell. Warmth spread in his chest and he had thousands of butterflies in his stomach. The redneck had never felt anything like that before and it terrified him.

It was something he could not handle.

He knew he screwed up when he left you because of his brother. The way you behaved towards him was unmistakable. Daryl did not want to endanger the little friendship that was still between you. He could not risk losing you for good.

So he gave you your freedom and just adored from a distance - without you noticing.

But from a certain point in time all his thinking was focused only on you. Or rather, to hide what he really felt about you - how much he loved you.

Daryl was so busy hiding the love he felt for you that he did not even notice how much this young woman from Woodbury was constantly flirting with him. Of course, it had not escaped him that she ran after him like a lost puppy; and yes that annoyed him.

But weren't all of these newcomers a pain in the ass?

He was not interested in this blonde woman, not a little bit. Daryl does not care about her; he does not even listen to her most of the time.

If he was honest, he did not even know her name.

---------------------------------

In the last few weeks, it had become routine for the redneck to be on guard duty in the early hours of the morning. Not just because he was an early riser- and finally got some peace up here from the intrusive people from Woodbury - but because you went to work in the vegetable gardens shortly after sunrise every day.

And from high up there he had the opportunity to watch and admire you unnoticed.

You have always been used to working hard, and everyone who saw you knew that you had no problem with it and that you could lend a hand. Rick once joked that you could overshadow any Amish when it came to your work ethic. You just shrugged your shoulders and replied that you had no problem with that as long as you didn't have to pray for hours.

So you and Daryl spent the mornings together - without your having a clue about it. You, lovingly watching over the plants in the vegetable patches, he on the guard tower, lovingly watching over you.

As the sun rose higher and higher on its way across the sky, it made the sweat shimmer on your skin as you patiently devoted yourself to each of your tasks without taking a break. The black tank top you wore on that hot summer day stuck to your body and framed it perfectly. Your figure was like an hourglass, and each of your curves came out sensually.

At least as far as Daryl could tell. For him you were perfect, just like you were. He could watch you for hours without getting tired of it, could watch you for the rest of his life.

Only when the crotch of his jeans became uncomfortably tight did the redneck look away from you. His thoughts had taken a suggestive course, and the images that emerged in his head were by far no longer suitable for minors. Daryl would surely spend this evening in his fist again - dreaming of how you would feel lying under him, how you would smell, how you would taste, and what sweet noises would come over your lips if he would touch you where you needed it most.

"Everything's okay," he heard a familiar voice next to him.

Damn it, did the time really go that fast? Was his shift already over?

"Are you okay? You seem a little distracted to me."

Carol had come to relieve him. But Daryl, in his fascination for you, had not even noticed her.

"’m okay."

"Yes, of course, and your thoughts were on the task in front of you the whole time."

There was unmistakable amusement in Carol's voice. With a knowing smile, the woman leaned on the railing and watched you work for a while.

"Can you please finally tell Y/N that you love her. So that we can finally all get on with our lives? It's really not nice to see you two walking around each other on eggshells."

Daryl was embarrassed. He was caught with his hand in the cookie jar by Carol. Still, he tried to stay as cool as possible.

"I have no idea what ya're talkin’ about."

But the woman was not easily fooled. She knew very well what was going on in the man in front of her. Just as she knew how you felt about him.

"I hear what you say, but your ears say something else.”

Daryl flinched. Sometimes he hated the way his body betrayed him.

“What the hell,” Carol had to keep from laughing “I didn't even know that they could get so red."

"Stop it woman."

Again and again, Carol tried to get her friend to finally confess his love to you. Because in her eyes you were both wasting valuable time. And being able to spend time with loved ones was the most important thing now.

You had not noticed any of this. You were too busy tying up the tomato plants and removing the leaves so that they brought the greatest possible yield. After all, many mouths had to be fed, and you all needed supplies for the coming winter.

And it was precisely these necessary supplies that prompted Rick to ask you to go on a run the next day with others. Of course, you immediately agreed, after all, everyone went on these runs at some point. It wouldn't be your first time, and certainly not your last time, that you would take part in something like this.

But who could say that in these uncertain times?

What you did not know at the time was, that Michelle would be there too. Maybe then you would have refused. But now you sat in the back seat of the pickup truck in silence, staring stubbornly out the window.

Michelle just a few inches away from you.

It had been clear to Maggie from the start that this constellation would not bring any good. However, even the young woman would not have expected what dimensions the whole thing would take. And in what a heartbreaking catastrophe it would end.

During the entire journey Glenn and Maggie tried to break the mood. The four of you sat in the truck and drove a few hours until you finally arrived at your destination.

It should be a simple thing - in and out, quietly, quickly, unseen.

But what no one had expected was the behavior that Michelle had displayed when it came to doing her part. She had absolutely no desire to be actually a part in this job.

And Michelle let the three of you feel that very clearly.

She neither wanted to help find the necessary supplies nor carry them; even found it outrageous that she had been asked by Rick to join in and risk her life. She had never had to do this before, why now?

It took you so much strength to stay calm and not yell your opinion on Michelle's face - or beat her across the street.

You did not like this woman, not a bit. For you, she was a narrow-minded, self-centered, selfish slut who cared about only herself. And what Daryl saw in her was incomprehensible to you.

But when Michelle began to risk all of your lives because of her loud behavior, even Maggie's patience ran out. The eternal insults in your direction were just the cherry on top. Maggie would have liked nothing more than to give this snotty brat a huge slap in the face.

But to make a shitty day even more shitty, that was unfortunately your smallest problem.

Michelle's loud complaints drew the attention of more and more walkers, and at some point, you had difficulties getting back to your car.

You had just successfully cleared a pharmacy when you saw the horde slowly approaching on the street.

That was by far the worst scenario, and your greatest fear.

It was all happening so quickly, and the only thing you thought was that Michelle had to make it back to the Prison alive. You could not risk Daryl losing someone he loved again. No matter what a fucking bitch she was. You knew it would destroy him.

The way back to the pickup was long and the Walkers unfortunately closer than wanted. The heavy backpacks did not make it any easier to escape them quickly. So you stayed back when Maggie, Glenn, and Michelle started running back towards the truck. You knew your partners needed a distraction to make it through.

And what could be a better distraction than you.

"Come to me you damn motherfuckers! Here I am! Come and catch me you bloody bastards! You ugly fuckers!" you screamed on top of your lungs, tried to make as much noise as possible.

The walkers slowly turned to you and came to hunt you down - to kill you. You would be their lunch. Scared to death your heart was beating so hard in your chest that you thought it was about to pop out.

From that point on, you could not remember anything. Your brain just shut down, went into survival mode. You only ran on instinct, no more active thinking.

In a way, like the Walkers you tried to escape from.

Maggie turned when she heard your voice, and the blood froze in her veins. She thought you were right behind her, but you were still near the entrance to the pharmacy and the horde of walkers was on the way to you.

"Y/N!" her voice was desperate.

She was about to turn back to you – to help you - but Glenn could not and would not let that happen.

"Come on Maggie, we have to get the car. We'll come back for her; I promise."

Glenn took his girlfriend's hand and pulled her forcefully with him.

Michelle had not noticed anything of that, she was the first to take a seat in the pickup and firmly locked the passenger door behind her.

When Glenn finally started the engine and Maggie - now in the back seat - turned her eyes back to the pharmacy entrance, you were gone.

Your best friend was in a panic.

"Where is she? Oh my god, where is she?"

Only then did she see you on the canopy of the building - the backpack with the bandages still firmly strapped around you.

"On the roof, Glenn, she's on the roof! We have to get her!" the young woman screamed in desperation.

She could not and did not want to lose her friend. Not now and not like this.

“and preferably before these things figure out how to climb”, was Glenn's addition when he turned the truck and drove towards the pharmacy.

"Are you crazy," squeaked Michelle, "do you want to die just to maybe save her life?"

Maggie's eyes darkened, and Glenn realized immediately that she had now reached the limit. Another word from Michelle and his girlfriend would feed this woman to the Walkers with no trace of guilt.

"You shut up now, bitch! You're to blame for all this shit. If you’d shut your damn mouth and done what we've all done hundreds of times before, none of this would have happened! These fucking things would never have noticed us."

Michelle gasped to give Maggie a neat answer, but Maggie was faster.

"If I hear one more word from you, if you just beep, I'll feed you to these Walkers!"

Michelle's reply was interrupted by the gruesome sound of breaking bones as Glenn brutally drove through the horde of walkers who were now confused and trying to understand what was going on around them.

You were still standing on the roof. Your gaze was focused on the scene before you but not fearful, as if your self was not there at that moment.

"You have to jump," Glenn called to you when he brought the pickup to a stop right under the roof.

And with that you jumped onto the back of the truck. The fall was higher than expected, and there was a thump as you hit the flatbed. Immediately Glenn had accelerated the car again and drove away as fast as he could in the direction of Prison.

Desperate, Maggie kept calling your name, but you just did not answer. Maybe you were in shock. After all, it was not common practice to voluntarily sacrifice oneself as a meal for these monsters.

A few miles out of town, Glenn finally stopped the car, and Maggie was by your side in an instant. But she was not prepared for what she saw. You were passed out and a small pool of blood had formed under your head. The thud she had heard - when you landed - had been your head when it hit the loading wall.

"Oh my God."

Immediately Maggie was at your side, looking for your pulse with trembling hands. And there it was - weak - but she felt it.

"Please open your eyes Y/N/N", the young woman pleaded as she lovingly brushed the hair off your face.

"Maggie?" Glenn's voice was timid, almost frightened, as he stood next to the pickup and stared at your broken body.

"We have to get her to my father as soon as possible!"

Maggie's harsh words seemed to loosen Glenn from his stupor.

"Okay, no problem, I can do that."

And with that Glenn was back behind the wheel and gave full throttle. Maggie stayed with you on the flatbed, took off your backpack and trying to stop the bleeding on your head.

-------------------------------------

Rick and Daryl were in the courtyard of the prison, discussing the next runs when the pickup truck drove through the gates with screeching tires. It was immediately clear to both of them that something bad must have happened.

Without wasting time, the two men ran towards the car.

"What happened", Rick called out.

But Daryl could not hear Glenn’s answer. Everything around him fell silent and vanished when he saw you - bleeding, passed out - in Maggie's arms.

Without thinking further, he jumped on the flatbed and leaned over you. He caressed your pale cheek with trembling fingertips before desperately looking for a pulse on your neck.

Frightened, he held his breath until he felt it, your heartbeat.

Even but so weak.

"We have to take her to my father."

Maggie had not even finished the sentence when Daryl had already taken you in his arms - bridal style - and was on the way to the infirmary with you.

With a lover's desperation, he clung to you as he ran all the way.

“Don't do this to me. I beg ya, please don't die to me."

-----------------------------------

Daryl never left your side for a moment. He sat like a statue and held your hand. He did not say a word, did not move. Neither when Hershel examined you, nor when he sewed your laceration.

He listened quietly to the vet's diagnosis and what he thought might happen in the next few hours or days.

Only when Maggie came with a bowl of water and a cloth to wash off the dirt and blood did he break free.

"Let me …" Daryls voice cracked, and the knot in his throat made it difficult for him to say anything else.

He took everything from Maggie's hand and put it on the little table next to your bed.

The redneck looked broken. The young woman could clearly see how much he loved you. And she knew that if you died, Daryl would vanish. He would just cease to exist.

“I'm so sorry,” Maggie said quietly, and a tear rolled down her cheek, “I thought she was right behind me. But … but she wasn't."

"It's not ya’ fault." Daryl's voice was barely perceptible.

Slowly he dipped the cloth into the warm water and began to carefully wash the blood off your face.

"Daryl I’m ... I’m"

"I know."

“Y/N is strong, she is tough. She will be okay."

Daryl just nodded absently while he concentrated fully on washing the blood off your temple.

And so Maggie left the redneck alone with you in the infirmary.

With trembling hands, he began to clean your neck. Little by little he washed your whole body- took care of you quietly and lovingly- making dirt, blood and sweat disappear, made you as clean as he saw you before you went on that fucking run.

Then he sat there, hour after hour, just looking at you, holding your hand. You looked so fragile. You lay there injured and pale, almost like a corpse. Only your quiet, even breathing told Daryl that you were still with him.

Inside Daryl, everything contracted painfully at the thought that you might not wake up again. Slowly he leaned towards your face. He looked at every birthmark, every wrinkle, every freckle, as if he wanted to burn them into his memory.

“I don't know if ya can hear me,” he finally began with a trembling voice.

“But I ... I ... I “, he had to laugh bitterly.

“’m a bloody coward. Why can' I jus’ say it?"

Daryl took a deep breath, he had to get his fear under control somehow. He had to tell you. He would never forgive himself if he did not do it now.

What if you died.

"I love ya Y/N. 've been in love with ya since ... I actually have no idea how long. But I love ya. I should have told ya much earlier. I don' know why I didn't. But I love ya."

Daryl fought back tears but lost.

"Oh God please, I beg ya, please come back to me. Give me a chance to show ya how much I love ya. Just one chance to prove myself to ya." and with that Daryl collapsed on top of you, crying and sobbing.

----------------------------------

It took you two days to open your eyes again. Two days in which Daryl had not left your side. Two days of going through hell and back again. In which even he had sent a quick prayer or two towards heaven.

It was as if you had been awakened from a deep sleep far too abruptly. And it took a while before you knew where you were. You felt dizzy and tired. Your head hurt like hell. And you were confused.

First, why you were in the infirmary, and second, why Daryl was sitting next to your bed looking like he had not slept in days – your hand in his.

"Hey," he whispered, "how are ya feelin’?"

"Tired", your voice was scratchy from not using it for a long time, "my head hurts."

“You hit ya head bad. Hershel had to patch ya up."

"What happened?"

"Can't ya remember."

"No ... Yes …. but not ... not really ... only up to a certain point."

You were nervous, were not used to Daryl being so close to you. You did not want to make a fuss about yourself, and yet you liked the attention this man was giving you.

“I can still remember the horde of Walkers who came up to me, but then … nothing ... I can't remember what happened then."

You had not noticed that tears had started to run down your temples until Daryl lovingly wiped them away with his thumb.

"Hey ... shh ... take it easy. Everythin’ is okay. Everyone’s fine. Please don't get upset, ya have a concussion. Hershel says ya need a lot of rest now."

And suddenly you were silent. Never before had Daryl spoken to you with such a loving tone in his voice or had touched you in this way. You did not understand what was happening here.

But he said you had a concussion. Perhaps it was to blame for this filter through which you noticed this whole interaction.

“I'll let Hershel know that ya woke up. I'll be right back; promise."

Confused, you looked after the redneck. Something had happened that you had no idea about. But you did not want to worry about it now. Your head hurt too much, and you just wanted to sleep.

---------------------------------------

When you opened your eyes again, Hershel was sitting in the chair on which you had previously seen Daryl.

"It's nice to see you again with your eyes open Y/N," said the older man with a friendly smile, "you worried us very much."

"‘m sorry. "

"It's okay. How do you feel?"

"Okay. Tired, head hurts."

"Something else?"

"No, except that I feel like I'm wrapped in cotton wool."

Hershel sat and listened to you before nodding.

"Daryl said you can't remember what happened."

"Not really."

"Don't worry, that's nothing unusual with this type of head injury."

He patted your shoulder encouragingly.

"Will I be able to remember one day?"

"You know kid, sometimes it is really good not to be able to remember some things."

"Probably."

“But now you should rest first. I know you have questions, but answers will come later. After all, you have to regain your strength."

------------------------------------------

You knew you had slept, but not for how long. Because the next time you opened your eyes, Carol was sitting on that same chair. But there was something else. Could it be that it smelled of her venison ragout?

"How are you, Y/N/N?"

"Still tired, but the headache is almost gone."

"Good to hear. You gave us all a real scare."

"I'm sorry."

"Especially Daryl. I've never seen him so frightened."

You looked questioningly at the older woman next to you. You were used to it that she kept dropping allusions about Daryl - at least when she talked to you. But you just did not understand that statement at all.

Daryl was never afraid of anything. Why would he ...

"Well. Are you hungry?" Carol had a friendly smile on her face when it broke your train of thought.

At that moment, your stomach made a loud rumbling noise.

“I'll take that as a yes,” smirked the gray-haired woman, “Daryl went hunting so that I could cook this. He knows it’s your favorite."

Unsure you looked at Carol before you took the bowl from her hand and slowly began to eat. It was true, that was your favorite food - if there was such a thing at all in times like this.

"You know that he loves you," she suddenly began out of nowhere

"Of course, we are family," did you try to belittle the matter.

“Okay, let's reformulate the whole thing again. Daryl is in love with you, absolutely and one hundred percent madly in love with you. A 'you're the only one for me' love. Without any misunderstanding."

When she said that, you choked on the stew right away and now you sat in front of her, coughing and snorting.

“And I know you love him too. So don't try to deny it at all. Everyone here knows that. Or how blind do you think we are? Although ... apart from Daryl. He has no idea. He probably wouldn't even understand if it bites his ass.”

At this picture you had to laugh.

“Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith in order to reach their goal. You two really have to start talking clearly to each other. You two belong together like pepper and salt Do you actually notice how much you waste your precious time? Neither of us knows how much of it is left. You should know that now, because honey it was damn close."

---------------------------------------------

Sleeping was your main occupation right now. A concussion took time and a lot of rest to heal. So it wasn't uncommon for your life to consist of short scenes at the moment.

With a sound - like a purring cat - you stretched in the hospital bed before opening your eyes. You no longer had any sense of time, and only the sunlight falling through the barred windows told you that it was probably afternoon.

"Hey."

Only now did you notice that Daryl was with you again.

"Ya feel better?"

"Yes."

Daryl seemed kind of nervous. But that wasn't possible, why should he?

"I've been here before, but ya slept and I don't want to wake ya", his words just gushed out of him.

Could it be? Was he nervous?

"Okay ... yes ... uhm ..."

You were easily overwhelmed with this situation, and somehow your head just seemed to have been swept clean. You could not find any words.

"We take turns. Hershel thinks there should always be someone with ya. Because of the concussion. Rick has already been here, and Maggie of course."

"And Carol."

"Yea."

"I wanted to thank you."

"For what?"

"For the food. Carol said you went hunting especially for it."

"No problem."

“I still appreciate it. And for ... that you are here ... with me."

He nudged his nose up in a nod.

And then there was silence. The conversation with Carol kept going through your head. What she said. Could it really be true?

You knew that Daryl has always been more of a man of action than a man of words. And it was clear to you that if you did not take the first step now, you two would probably never get anywhere.

"Carol spoke to me", you started when you sat up

The man across from you was obviously nervous now. You could tell all too clearly by the fact that he was starting to chew the inside of his cheek.

"With me too."

"Apparently something like an intervention is going on here, could that be", you smiled, trying to loosen up the mood a bit.

"Seems so."

Daryl looked at you for a few moments. You could see the wheels turning in his head.

"I'm a coward, Y/N," he finally began.

You had expected a lot, but not a statement like that.

"No, you’re not. How did you come up with such an idea?"

"I was a complete idiot and too cowardly."

"What are you talking about Daryl."

In your opinion, this was going completely wrong right now. You actually wanted to tell him you loved him, and now it seemed to end in a vortex of self-doubt.

"I love ya, Y/N.”

And with that your thoughts became silent.

“I am terribly in love with ya. And out of fear I didn't say anything. But then I saw ya lying on the flatbed of that fucking truck, covered in blood and passed out. At that moment, my heart stopped. And I swore to myself that when ya're okay again, when ya've got throu’ this, that I'll finally tell ya what I feel for ya. Y/N I love ya. "

During Daryl's monologue you forgot how to breathe and just listened intently while thousands of butterflies fluttered around in your stomach like they're having a bloody party there.

It took you some time to realize that Daryl was waiting for a reaction from you as he gnawed his thumb in fear.

"I love you too," it gushed out of you before you even realized you had said something.

And then there was silence again. You and Daryl just looked at each other. Unsure what to do now. After all, you were both in uncharted waters.

"And ... and now," you asked uncertainly.

"Don't know," Daryl just shrugged.

"I mean ... um ... are ... are we ... together now?"

You carefully ventured out of cover.

"Um, yea ... if ya ... if ya want that."

"Oh my god, yes please", you replied in one breath.

Suddenly the tension between you had dissolved and you both had to laugh. It was so surreal. Two adults acted like teenagers in love who had no idea what to do.

But then Daryl slowly leaned in towards you. Your heart was pounding when you could finally feel his breath on your face. But before your lips touched, he stopped. He wanted to give you the opportunity to evade him if you did not want this.

But you wanted it, wanted it more than anything else in your life. And when you had overcome the last few inches, you finally felt his lips on yours.

The feeling was amazing. As if at that moment an electric shock had run through your whole body, and at the same time it was like coming home.

Everything around you no longer existed, was no longer important. Here and now, it was just you and Daryl. The way his lips moved with yours, how his fingers slowly ran up your arms until they were in your hair.

Everything was so intense. And when you finally parted to take a much-needed breath, Daryl leaned his forehead against yours.

"Ya have no idea how long I've been dreamin’ about this."

"Probably as long as me."

-------------------------

When Rick was about to visit Y/N in the early evening hours, he saw Carol and Maggie standing in the door to the infirmary.

"Everything's okay," he wanted to know.

The two women turned around with their index fingers over their lips.

"Shhhh."

Both did at the same time.

"Be quiet and come here," Carol whispered, "you really have to see that."

Rick approached the two women curiously. What could be so interesting that Carol and Maggie were half-hidden behind the door, staring into the infirmary?

He was confused, but when he saw what fascinated them so much, his heart swell. A satisfied smile played on his lips, as he was seeing what was going on less than five paces away.

Daryl was lying - half sitting - on the bed. His back supported on the wall behind him. Y/N was snuggled close to him, head on his chest and her arm wrapped around him. Absently, the fingers of his right hand traced patterns on her upper arm as he read to her from an old paperback.

Everyone could see the love that bound these two people. And thank God the two finally understood that.

"Seems like we finally have a happy ending," said the former deputy with a broad smile.

"Thank God", Maggie exhaled, "nobody wanted to watch this puppy love shit anymore."

“Yes,” laughed Rick, “but you have to admit there was something exciting about the whole thing. As if it had been our very own little soap opera."

"You're right, but I prefer my best friend happy."

"And what do we do now. I mean this seemingly endless heartbreak theater has come obviously to an end."

"Gossip- Rick is afraid he'll get bored?"

Maggie's voice was teasing.

"No, that's not how it was meant."

"Don't worry, Rick," said Carol with a smile, "I think the whole thing has a sequel anyway."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, has someone told Michelle yet?"

All three looked at each other with big eyes before they having to resist laughing convulsively.

This story could get really interesting after all, they agreed.

part two