#and not to uhhh brag on myself too much but I have like... really nice fckn cursive handwriting too lol it even LOOKS nice 😆

[zoologica42]

Temperate Lake Dashboard Simulator

🐦‍⬛2xcrested_cormorant Follow Going to try and eat this weird fish

♻️🐦‍⬛2xcrested_cormorant Follow wilmdlife hopital

🐸rana-bufo Follow No one can ever truly understand what BULL4rog's music means to me 😭 this song in particular argrgrgrgrgrg the way he puffs out his vocal sack asdfghjk

BULL4rog: listen here on spotify ♻️🐸rana-bufo Follow I think I huave chytrid

🐟ilikeeatingminnowsFollow I just migrated here from finstagram please be nice

🐠powerbottomfeeder Follow

I have HAD IT with this lake, it’s the third day in a row we’ve had nitrates above 8 ppm and uug the algae, my allergies I can’t do this

♻️🐟carpy-diem Follow

Lol we regularly get nitrates up to 20 ppm in my lake ♻️🦞crawdaddy Follow uhhh you shouldn't be bragging about that, it's really unsafe ♻️🐟carpy-diem Follow suck it you little oligotrophic bitch

🐢snappturt Follow Dear Tumblr, am I the Basshole for the way I catch minnows? I was chatting with some of the guys I bask with and they said the way I catch minnows is problematic; What I do is I sit on the bottom of the lake, I hide myself in the mud and I open my mouth. My tongue looks a lot like a little worm so I wiggle it around- and because of that, minnows swim over and check it out. Once they get close enough, then I bite down and eat them. Some of my rockmates have told me that this is manipulative and toxic behavior- but they also eat minnows...I don't know guys...

🦆tree hole-nester-acorn-eater Follow

is it just me, or is this super homoerotic???

🐟bigpikexxl Follow liveblogging diving down to the bottom

♻️🐟bigpikexxl Follow dark

♻️🐟bigpikexxl Follow big log

♻️🐟bigpikexxl Follow rock

♻️🐟bigpikexxl Follow kinda cold

♻️🐟bigpikexxl Follow oh hi @deepwatersculpin!!!

♻️🐠deepwatersculpin Follow oh hey @bigpikexxl!!!

never thought i'd seen one of my mutuals irl!!! I didn't even know we lived in the same lake!!!

🐠Shadlad Follow I'm not sorry, and I'm not afraid to say it, if you're an introduced species, go dry yourself out. You're not welcome to eat up all of our resources and live in my ancestral longs and rock crags. These things are for us to relate to and not for you to squander.

♻️🦞crevice-steve Follow

Can't believe this type of fishcourse is still popular on this site, introduced species didn't choose to be introduced and have as much of a right to live as anyone else. Bigotry against introduced species is still bigotry and that's a hill I will dry on. ♻️🐠Shadlad Follow Go ahead, dry yourself out then ;) ♻️🪷nootnootnewt Follow Hey man, I hate invasive species as much as anyone else but please stop telling people to beach themselves for political reasons- yeah that includes inavsives too ♻️🦐typical_scud Follow Did you legit just use the word Invas*ve to describe introduced species? ♻️🦢flatfootswimmer Follow anyone in this thread eat pondweed?

♻️🐟largemouthbASS Follow A colab with my mutual @2xcrested_cormorant after they got released from the wildlife hospital. They haven't been on much since the Fish and Wildlife Service released them in the wrong lake and it took them a while to get back to their colony. We hope this guide will help you avoid accidentally eating/engaging with bait!

[literaphobe]

I love your take on the wlw Love Square! Now I'm curious about your take on an mlm Love Square

ive actually never thought about mlm love square. but for you anon? okay!

ladynoir: ifl mlm ladynoir would spar so much and be a lot more competitive about whos in charge. boy ladybug is a bit of a dick about how Being the ladybug miraculous holder makes him the de facto leader and when master fu starts training him he rubs it in chat noirs face. chat noirs retort is always about how master fu clearly thinks he doesn’t NEED his hand held because he’s so obviously the more competent one. secretly he is very sad that master fu doesn’t gaf about him. boy ladybug also slowly stops bragging about all the responsibility because he realizes its not a title of honor but a heavy rock he’s been saddled with but he can’t look weak in front of chat or he won’t ever let him live it down. one day they get into a shouting match that ends with them passionately making out only to run away after because What The Fuck

adrienette: ifl boy marinette would be the perfect like. all rounder. good at gaming, good at sports, best grades in the class, extremely talented at fashion design. bro would be drowning in bitches and equally oblivious about the fact that everyone wants him so fucking bad. like without misogyny he would fly so high. adrien would have complicated feelings about him bc gabriel would weirdly compare them and be like if not for the inferiority of his birth, he would be a better son for myself than you <- or something else fucked up that cuts adrien deep. but then gabriel finds out that boy marinette is a mlm and never speaks of him again. even tells adrien not to hang around him OR imitate him in anyway. praises adrien for being a good straight son (without directly saying straight…? idk) and it only makes adrien more determined to become friends w marionette

marichat: chat noir sees marinette on his rooftop balcony and is like um Hey i know we barely know each other but i heard about u coming out recently and Uhhh i hope ur okay i heard the Agreste brand rejected you for their summer program because of it and that really sucks and hes like oh. thank you. i dont know how you heard about that but thats really nice. im okay really. my parents are really supportive and the fact that gabriel agreste is homophobic makes me not want to have anything to do with him or his brand. and chat is like oh… everything? even his… son? and boy marinette is like are u kidding? adriens one of the best people i know. i feel bad that he has to live with a father like that. and chat is like yeah. me too. and marinette is like confused like did u come here just to talk to me about adrien agreste? and chat is like oh um. i actually um. came here to ask for advice on coming out bc im gay…? its half an excuse because every night he thinks about the time he kissed boy ladybug but also he does not know what his sexuality is. hes like. its almost as if hes not allowed to like men. and yet… ANYWAY. marionette is like um. i guess coming out advice number one. don’t tell ur parents if ur dad is someone like gabriel agreste. and he laughs and chat is like haha! so funny! thank god im not adrien agreste! would suck to be him if he was gay! and boy marinette shrugs and is like eh. i doubt adrien’s gay anyway. i hope for his sake that he isn’t

ladrien: something happens that makes adrien’s identity as chat noir almost get compromised and he lies to boy ladybug and is like uh… i have the biggest crush on chat noir? he was um. my gay awakening? and ladybug gets a little jealous because hes in love w adrien and its like wow of fucking COURSE adrien likes chat noir. of course chat noir’s the hot sexy one who gets all the men he wants without even trying! his charms totally dont work on boy ladybug tho. of course not. them kissing that one time never happened. anyway in his annoyance he tells adrien hes free to go for chat noir because there’s no way he’d turn down Adrien Agreste™ and adrien is like hang on how did u know that chat noir’s gay????? and ladybug panics like FUCK did i just out chat based on what i know as boy marinette???? and he backtracks like WHAAAAAT no um i have no idea what chat noir’s sexuality is just um dont u think chat noir looks gay??? gives off such a gay vibe??????? and adrien is like WYM CHAT NOIR LOOKS GAY LIKE WHAT DID HE DO???? and its just a disaster all around

[imwritesometimes]

seven and a half pages. hand written. I don't hate it. this is only the first little snippet. I actually like? it! I'm writing again?!??! seven and a half pages!

[jiminrings]

coach! jungkook and y/n!!! jk being extra extra clingy

mvp: clingy

pairing: jungkook x y/n

wordcount: 3k

notes: aHHHHH coach!koo remains as i think my most popular piece and this is actually the first actual drabble he gets!! :D

read most valuable, the piece that started it all!!!

so you see

this isn’t a brag or anything pinky promise

but uh jungkook.,..

jungkook rARELY feels insecure ok

those two words don’t belong in the same sentence!!

THEY AREN’T EVEN IN THE SAME PARAGRAPH!!!

but god is he lying when he says he doesn’t feel the tiniest bit insecure with this mINgYu fellow

not to be that boyfriend but uhhh why don’t you laugh with him like THAT

:(((

“kook do you have someone in mind for a guest coach??”

jimin asks for the third time this week, looking mAjorly frustrated as he plops himself in the swivel chair

the dish was that y’know what!! it happens!! THIS happens!!!!

jimin’s been the longest assistant coach (and generally a coach) your team has ever had

he was practically there from the start!!!

whether he admits it or not, jimin’s a binding piece for you and the girls no matter what

then jungkook became head coach right

now the things was....

burnouts happen!! it’s normal!!!

it’s normal to LOSE your drive and passion for your sport as an athlete <3

the last season ended on a good note for sure because after all, you won the championships!!

not to mention that you were hailed mvp hee-hee :D

but then some months have passed

and the new season was supposed to start three months ago but of course it just had to be rESCHEDULED

it’s not necessarily an entirely bad thing

the extra time gave you more time to heal after your injury and your conditioning back to your prime is at top-notch!!

but it just can’t be helped

you and the girls??? your momentum??? aBSOLUTELY PUT-OFF

the training for next season just started last week and jimin and kook rEALLY prepared for this ok

there’s another reason to why kook is almost practically living at yours and jimin’s place nowadays lmao

... it just doesn’t work

it feels like every trick in both their books have been thoroughly used and it’s just not a challenge for you anymore

not to fLEX or anything but

basically the drills and the workouts just feel like warm-ups nowadays :D

and the warm-ups feel like a brisk walk in the park :D

that is both an insult and a compliment to jimin and jungkook because wOW!!! omg we instilled discipline and mastery to them <3

but at the same time it’s like you should nOT be giggling while i make you practice your pancake dives repeatedly

the two of them just need to BOOST everyone’s morale!!!

“actually, i finally found someone!! just thought of it last night but i didn’t wanna knock on your door because jupiter was in the living room and he thought i was an intruder aGAIN”

lol

sometimes jimin can’t wrap his head around that he sees jungkook perhaps almost ALL the damn time

he wakes up disoriented and he sees you on the couch with a bowl of cereal and look!!! my best friend slash roomie already made me breakfast :D

then he plops to the couch and there is this bEEFY entity lying on it covered with a blanket and???? jungkook???? what are yOU doing here

then jimin’s taking a spoonful of his cereal while he’s thinking because uH are the two of you screwing???

“hyung that’s my cereal”

“i put yours in the refrigerator jiminie!! i know how you like it cold!!”

aH and then it hits him

oh right the two of you are a couple now and jungkook just likes crashing and sleeping over at his apartment with you

when his oWN place is not even thirty minutes away wtf

<3 anyways get out of my way jungkook that’s MY spot on MY couch <3

jimin perks up at that because god fuck finally!!! he needs to make calls immediately

“well? who is it??”

jungkook pauses for a dramatic effect before he claps his hands, also eager to start this mini workshop of sorts for a week to boost team spirit

“mingyu!!!! he was my teammate from my former team and well there’s no rival conflict or anything like that!! perfect score!!!!”

that’s-

hmmmmmm

“y’talking about kim mingyu? tall guy, slicked hair, jumps high??”

“you know him??”

jungkook squints to himself because after all that was a little bit of a sTOOPID question

their games were televised and jimin’s a coach how could he nOT expect that

“yeah, yeah. he was my junior in high school and we were kinda friends i guess...”

there’s something in jimin’s tone and jungkook tries to dig in to that because well he thOught his hyung would be a bit more excited

jimin knows that kook could hear the cringe in his voice and it makes him scratch at the back of his head

“ah, you should probably keep y/n away. mingyu... well he was pretty mUCH notorious for stealing everyone’s girlfriends and opportunities from people and such.,.,..”

he still has a bit of resentment for mingyu ok

he was a fucking vULTURE

whatever he did first or whatever he wanted, mingyu would do and pursue the exact same

and jimin was definitely irked because people were hailing mingyu as the cool guy or sth for the things that he was copying off of jIMIN!!!!

they weren’t just coincidences!!!

they say imitiation is the best form of flattery but fuck that jimin is NOT flattered

“aish c’mon, jimin. you uNDERESTIMATE me!!! y/n only has eyes for me, silly!! :D”

aha

aHA

jungkook may have been too confident this time

he knows you still LOVE him!!!! right??

pls say right

there’s this wrenching feeling in the pit of his stomach when he sees you and mingyu doing one-on-one drills as he goes through you all

it was just a simple rally!!! a back-and-forth of the volleyball!! nOTHING major right??

wrong

jungkook could only focus to how focused YOU look

and to how at one point mingyu gave you a tricky throw back and you still managed to give it back to him and how you gIGGLED!!!!

g i g g l e d

then you gave a tricky throw back to mingyu and passed it back and this time he laughed and you cACKLED!!!!

oh my god why is jungkook feeling this way

jimin’s standing beside him and he could hear these little growls from jungkook???

like it’s not exactly gROWLING but it sounds like it

it’s a hybrid between a light snore and a growl and with how jungkook has his eyebrows knitted he is definitely nOt sleepy that’s fo sure

ugh are the two of you fighting again???

does jimin need to give jungkook a wake-up call again or-

wait

hold on

OH

hE KNOWS WHAT’S HAPPENING

the jeon jungkook is inTIMIDATED by mingyu!!!!

wow

he’s never thought that a day like this would come in which jungkook isn’t knocked down a couple of pegs bUT HERE IT IS :D

in your opinion this is GREAT for the team morale!!! coach mingyu was just a breath of fresh air for a guest coach and u are enjoying it

he’s given the team new insights and it helped break the collective burn-out!!

kook just feels insecure ok

and threatened

which is why the moment jimin called for a ten-minute break, jungkook immediately sITS you down

“hi hi okay whAt are you doing???”

you’re endeared but you’re taken aback because jungkook’s immediately hovering above you, swiping and patting down the sweat from your forehead

“i’m taking care of you, silly!! :D”

that’s nice, maybe???

you don’t wanna think much of it hehe jungkook’s just being a caring boyfriend u guess

although he’s never done this before ur gonna admit and you’re stILL dumbfounded

he’s going all-out

even getting a cold towel to put around your nape to help you cool down fetched you a sports drink aLLLLL by himself

he’s even gonna lift up your shirt and wipe down your boob sweat himself and tHEN you stop him

“koo baby i can do that by myself y’know!!!”

although it looks like jungkook doesn’t get why you dON’T want him to take care of you????

doesn’t waver though :D

just lifts your shirt in the slightest bit and shoves a towel to your sports bra and there he goes

“want a snack?? ah, want me to order pizza?? nO?? okay fine i’ll order oNE extra box just for you and me and i gUESS jimin if you want!!!”

it’s a spitfire of questions and you can’t even answer because jungkook’s already hopping on his merry way!!!

not before he presses a fat kiss to your cheek and exaggerates the mWAH sound

aha maybe he’s just being extra loving today

... maybe

“what do you want for dinner??”

“oh i was just thinking what about if we just order-“

“baby wHY do we need to order when your boyfriend is perfectly capable in making you dinner!!!”

ok then

????

something may be wrong with jungkook

it’s just not in his nature to take care of you this attentively

he takes care of you of course but not to the point that you don’t even have to move a single inch because he wants to do eVERYTHING

“jimin??”

you immediately call out when jungkook’s out from the apartment because he said that he’d be out in a flash to get some things from the convenience store because he’s gonna make some dAMN cocktails in his own words

“yeah???”

jimin’s showering atm and that doesn’t stop you from conversing by pressing yourself to the door

“did we lose a sponsor for the team or something????”

“no....? i even received another offer just awhile ago!!! what are you on about??”

oh really?? that’s nICE!!

but that isn’t really your point and you quickly recover before you get sidetracked

“huh?? nothing, minnie!! jungkook just feels a little... off,.,..”

jimin stops lathering his body wash on his loofah then because oh my god he thought he was the only one!!!

you asking basically confirms that jungkook being weird has nOTHING to do with you and his previous theory is 100% correct

you aren’t that bothered with jungkook being affectionate with you!!!

in fact you like it because wow.,.. love.,.. love that for me :D

but uh

this degree tho

“jungkook you are very uHh attached to me, aren’t you??”

here’s a list to how he’s been extra extra cLINGY to you

you were watching 50 first dates because it was the first thing that popped up when you opened the tv then the scene of the waffle house came on and you cOOED

and jungkook immediately jumped into action

by action that meant him literally DIVING to the other end of the couch where you were lying down and cuddled you

“i’m making you that tomorrow for breakfast!!!!”

you were a little sappy after that and it ended late and you just wanted to wash up before bed because there was still training tomorrow

nonetheless you were gonna wake up the next day because your boyfriend IS the head coach and ur roommate IS the assistant coach so u don’t really have a choice

might as well wrap up the night early

you had to wriggle yourself out of jungkook’s death grip to go to the bathroom and when he finally got his bearings???

you’re brushing your teeth :D

then jungkook’s just sat at the closed toilet seat :D looking at you :D

“wow... look at you.... ur so cute brushing your teeth”

“shwshshshw thwank you??”

it didn’t stop there however

of course you cuddled!! jungkook even takes his shirt off for it because in the middle of the night he could randomly get hot and fussy

this time jungkook was the bIG spoon

it’s no surprise that he likes being babied at times hee-hee but wOw so this was the feeling of warmth!!! of being wrapped around by a furnace!!!! it’s nice!!!

the next days however.,.,.

it was getting a little overboard

every single time he had the opportunity to, he would nuzzle his head to your neck and cling onto you until you tAP out

doesn’t care if mingyu sees him chasing you around with a towel on one hand and ice water on the other :D

of course why would he care :D

after all he iS the boyfriend and mingyu isn’t :D

when you bring down one hand as you just let the other scroll down your phone??

hOLD !!! IN TER TWINE !!! I MUST HOLD

you scratch that part of your scalp that randomly gets itchy when you are incapable of itching it???

kook drops everything he’s doing to scratch at your hair and even presses kisses to your hairline!!

even in sleep he was aTTACHED!!!

kinda like how he’s a koala and u are the only branch left in the world for him to cling on

he has his leg trapping you down and his arm on your middle and you’re just about to maneuver yourself so it would be cOmfy

but then kook takes that as a signal that he was still too loose so he cuddles up even MORE

you’re just about to grunt but then you look over to jungkook and-

!!!!

HE’S AWAKE

you immediately squeak and jungkook shuts his eyes sO quick and so hard that it becomes even more obvious that he’s awake

his eyeballs are trembling underneath his eyelids lmao

even his lip is twitching and his breathing isn’t as relaxed if he were ACTUALLY sleeping

“wanna tell me about it??”

...

“... no i’m asleep”

“want me to talk until you fall asleep??”

“yes pls i’m asleep anyway”

jungkook is even cuter this way :((

when he is beyond oblivious that he’s adorable by just being like himself basically

“training was great today!! i don’t know if you saw, but mingyu and i had a contest awhile ago to see who jumps up higher!! so mingyu-...”

jungkook oPENS his eyes at that only for them to twitch

all he hears is mingyu mingyu mingyu and frankly it’s iRRITATING

he reacts exactly when you mention the guest coach’s name and it makes you halt

“hmmm so it iS about him, huh?? jimin was right,” you mumble underneath your breath but he hears you nonetheless and it makes him huff

jungkook completely detaches and turns away from you in an instant as if he’s throwing a tantrum that makes you reach out for him more

“is that why you’ve been clinging onto me??”

he can’t lie he’s extremely sOFT the moment you try and wrap your arms around his huffing figure

“figured that if i’m attached to you by the hip, then you’d only think of me and nOt him”

he’s kind of ashamed as he admits because he feels like he’s being childish with his feelings

he’s not so used to being vulnerable and it makes him uHhHh vulnerable????

he doesn’t like it

“i don’t like mingyu, koo.”

he feels you pressing a tender kiss to his cheek that makes them squish

he hAS to have a stronger resolve than this

“then stOp mentioning his name!!”

he was tHREATENED that’s for sure

he doesn’t need to say that aloud because god what for <3 he’s already suffering he doesn’t wanna speAk

“you do know that you’re my oNLY best boy, hmm??”

buttering up jungkook could be a little tricky

but you seem to hit the notch just pERFECTly this time because he’s basically putty

“yeah? i don’t really know about that”

he’s a wHORE for affection!!! that much he’s realized halfway through the week of being attached to you

you seem to be also forgetting that jungkook’s shirtless and he’s taking his comforter down, a cheeky smile gracing him that you snOrt as soon as it registers in your mind

:D

“remind me?”

[marshmellowmin]

A “Fake” Love Story Pt.1| Mafia!Doyoung AU

1st of all-I’m so sorry we haven’t posted an update to the series in so long! @smorechan and I are both in school currently and have been hyper focused on that. Combine that with quarantine writers block and you get us not updating for almost 9 months straight. 

2nd of all-thank you to everyone who has been reading and supporting the series! It means so much to us! We would love to hear your thoughts on the series and who you want us to write next! 

3rd of all- I’ll be including a masterlist soon! It will be linked in my bio!

This series is a collaboration between myself (@marshmellowmin) and the author @smorechan. Please continue to support us as we release more related content and continue our stories. Thank you!

Doyoung: Politician. Ended up in congress when the last President was impeached, makes sure the laws work in favor of S-NCT. Was a trade dealer before becoming a politician. Is popular amongst the common population of Korea.

Years in Mafia: 10

Weapon of Choice: Billet 4x4 Snatch Rope

Body count: 3

___

  *Ding*

“Thank you for coming to Cherry Blossom Co! How can I help you today?” You popped your head up from the rose bush you were plucking at the moment to look towards the door of your little flower shop. By the daisies and petunias stood a man in his early to mid twenties, shifting his eyes between the flowers before landing on your own figure. 

“ Ah, I was wondering if I could get a bouquet made by tonight? Every other shop in the area is backed up with orders.” He gave a small smile before pulling his wallet out of his suit pocket “I can pay extra if it helps.” 

Walking from around the massive flower pot, you wiped the dirt off of your gloves before taking them off and shoving them into the apron tied around your waist. “Don’t worry about paying extra, I can make it for you right now!” Walking over to the workbench you pulled out a basic brown wrapping paper, folding it and laying it flat down on the table. “What is the occasion? A date maybe?” You looked up to the stranger, who had moved from the daisies over to the lilies, running his fingers gently along the petals. He probably had no problem securing a date, if he wasn’t married already. Tall, handsome and a soothing voice with a calm face. 

“Uh… not exactly” He set out a whispered laugh, scratching the back of his head, “ I have to meet the daughter of one of my associates tonight, I figured I should come prepared.” So he wasn’t married, nice.

“Well, do you have any idea what type of flowers you want? Big or small bouquet? And do you want a message written with it?” You pulled twine and cardstock along with lettering pens from under the counter.

“I know absolutely nothing about flowers, a decent sized bouquet and no message please, I wouldn’t know what to write,” He laughed again, this time bringing his hand to pull at his cuff sleeves. You chuckled at the man’s cluelessness, putting away the pens and cardstock. Even though he looked like a super smooth and suave guy, it was obvious he was oblivious to the world of romantics. 

“Well, what kind of a meeting is it? Professional, casual, or maybe even romantic?” You asked, walking around the hydrangeas and closer to the wildflowers before finally reaching the most popular flower, the red roses.

“What kind of flowers are your favorites?” He asked, following you around your small shop, eyeing every type of flower. Surprised by the question, you paused in front of the chrysanthemums.

“I like them all, if I’m being honest. But a bouquet of different types of wildflowers and lavender are my personal favorites. I always have some on display in my living room. Do you have a favorite flower?” You figured making small talk would help hurry his decision along-and maybe come back to your shop again. 

“I like that one flower, it grows a lot in America, it uhhh, it almost looks like a daisy but it’s petals are blue and purple and pink” He gave another nervous laugh, whipping out his phone this time before clicking around and unceremoniously shoving the phone into your own hands. A picture of a field, in what you assumed to be America, was on the screen, with beautiful flowers all across it.

“Those look like New England Asters!” You grinned widely, laughing. Moving back over to the wildflowers, you picked up a handful of the colorful flowers, showing them to him proudly. “I even have them in stock!” 

“Wow, I didn’t know you could find them in Korea.” He followed you back through the store as you pulled different flowers from bushes and buckets before you made it back to the workbench. You continued to make small talk as you made the bouquet, finishing it much quicker than you expected. 

“Here it is!” You held it up with pride, handing it over to him, which he gently took from you, a smile appearing. 

“Thank you so much, here, how much do I owe you?” He went to pull out his wallet again, before you raised a hand in an attempt to stop him. 

“Don’t worry about it. I had fun talking to you and I love making bouquets for people who enjoy the work behind it, so consider it on the house. Anything else you need?” 

“Um, I know this is gonna sound really weird, but will you come to this meeting with me? As a um, uh, a date?”

“I’m sorry?” You choked, halting all movements to put together the bouquet.

“Well, uhm I was supposed to court the daughter of the associate I’m meeting with tonight, which is why I needed the bouquet, but she’s like 16, and on top of her being way too young, she’s a total brat who’s never been told ‘no’ in her life. So you can see why I want to avoid courting her as much as possible,” the man awkwardly laughed and rubbed the nape of his neck, looking anywhere else but at you. You were shocked by his story, not quite believing that a man would actually marry off his 16 year old daughter to a man who appeared to be in his early twenties. You couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man’s position, and also happy he wasn’t a creepy pedophile.

“I’ll go with you, but on one condition. Tell me your name.” You smiled, tending to your bouquet once again. The man smiled brightly at your answer and chuckled a bit when he realized he had never told you his name. 

“It’s Kim Doyoung. Nice to meet you,” Doyoung looked at the embroidered name on your apron right below your left collarbone, “Y/N. Should I pick you up here around 6?” 

“Alright. I will see you at 6 Mr. Kim Doyoung. Doyoung nodded and the two of you spent the next few minutes asking questions about each other and how the meeting tonight would go down. As it turns out, the associate he was meeting tonight was West African and had connections all over the world, and Doyoung was trying to work with him to get some of the connections. He never mentioned what the connections were for though, which you found odd. Most men love to brag about their work experiences, while Doyoung tended to tell little pieces of his experiences. Eventually the bouquet was finished and Doyoung had to leave, something you both regretted-though the thought of seeing him again tonight kept you on your toes with excitement bubbling in your stomach.  

The rest of your day was just as mundane as you had expected. Nothing more than a husband with an upset wife at home, a young man on his first date, and a girl - looking for flowers to press - came into the shop. Still, your thoughts were filled with the image of a tall and lanky brunette that was supposed to be here any minute. 

5:59, you heard the chime of the front door opening, and walked in the same man from hours earlier. “Are you ready?” He asked, moving to the edge of the counter that you were behind, holding out his hand. “I promise that I will make it as adventurous as possible.” He gave out a chuckle as you timidly took the hand that he had offered. 

“I can’t wait to see what a high life you live Mr. Kim.” You joked, as he led you out to his car, waiting for you to lock the door to the shop. 

Driving for a while, he ended up in the front of a designer store, something you never even imagined walking into. Exiting the car, he walked to your side and opened the door, once again leading you inside of the brightly lit department store. Immediately, someone had approached the two of you, asking how they could help. Mentioning something about cocktail dresses, she led you farther back into the store and started pulling dresses off of the wall and hanging them on the door of a nearby dressing room. 

“Doyoung, what’s going on right now?” You asked, eyes darting between the racks of expensive clothing and the dressing room door.

“Well, you wanted to see the high life,” he laughed “plus, you need to look the part of a senator’s girlfriend, don’t you?” Senator… A SENATOR?!

Suddenly everything started clicking together. The tall lanky brunette who was definitely too sophisticated to be walking into such a small flower shop. Kim. Kim Dongyong. The youngest man in congress, who was also known as the heartthrob of Korea. You were going on a fake date with the man women of all ages were fawning over, regardless of political alignment. What. In. The. Hell. 

Zoning back into reality, Doyoung was waving his slender fingers in your face. Once he noticed a bit of sentience regained in them, he dropped his hand and cleared his throat. “I- I uh… I just realized that perhaps you didn’t know who I really was, it’s my fault really, I figured everyone in Seoul had at least a clue of what I looked like. That is a bit egocentric on my part. I understand if you no longer want to be my date for the evening.” His eyes were downcast, hands clasping behind him.

“No, no, no - it’s not that. I was just too slow to put all of the pieces together, and my apologies, I just don’t pay much attention to the news, it makes me sad.” You shook off the air of shock around you, regaining your composure. “Well, I guess I have to look the part to play the part, don’t I?” You laughed, looking behind you as Doyoung went to sit on the couch, ready to see whatever dress you picked out. 

Soon, you were leaving that gorgeous marbled store in a new peach dress and white heels, with a clutch to match and your hair and makeup done to the nines. During the time you were being, well, pampered, Doyoung had changed into a smart casual suit with the shirt matching the peach color of your dress. He wore off white slacks and white dress shoes, looking more like a government official than ever before. 

“Is there a reason we’re matching?” You asked, looking at Doyoung’s peach shirt and back to your peach cocktail dress. You had to admit, Doyoung looked unbelievably attractive in his suit, and the dress was doing you good as well.

“Don’t we look cute? I’m happy the peach looked good. You ready?” Doyoung asked, holding his arm out for you like a classic gentleman.

“I guess so. Lead the way Mr. Senator.” You grabbed Doyoung’s arm and soon enough, the two of you were in front of a very official dining hall, a sight you could only ever see in pictures on Google prior to 30 seconds ago. Holding onto Doyoung’s left arm, you walked up the steps and into the posh building. ’s grand entrance. You were greeted by a man in a traditional suit, the black blazer and slacks with a white collared shirt and a black tie made men look like penguins-and not very attractive ones. You were silently happy Doyoung hadn’t chosen to wear one. 

“Ah, Senator Kim! How lovely to see you tonight. And I see you brought a plus one! Who might she be?” The man shook Doyoung’s hand and before you even had a chance to introduce yourself, Doyoung spoke on your behalf.

“Very nice to see you as well Mr. Jeon. And this lovely lady here is my-”

“Fiance.” You cut Doyoung off before he had the chance to say “girlfriend”. Why? Who knows. But you’re stuck with it-and Doyoung knew it.

“Yes, we just got engaged so forgive my fiance for jumping in. She’s quite excited.” Doyoung’s right hand covered yours and gave it a gentle squeeze, signaling to you that you needed to say something. Or at least, that’s how you perceived it.

“Ah, yes, I’m very sorry for intruding like that. I just adore being able to call myself his fiance, please forgive me.” You gave the Mr. Jeon a sweet smile, hoping your sugary tone of voice was enough for him not to get upset. Unbeknownst to you, however, Doyoung was suppressing the world’s most shit eating grin, knowing you were the one who dug yourselves this massive hole and you were gonna be the one to get yourselves out.

“No worries, how could I be angry at such a wonderful couple? Although, not just two days ago Senator Kim here was one of Korea’s most eligible bachelors. Seems a little fast paced for an engagement, no?”

 “We’ve actually known each other for a couple years now, haven’t we dear?” Doyoung dragged out the little nickname, weirdly making your heart flutter a bit. You silently nodded in agreement. Mr. Jeon smiled and Doyoung made an escape attempt.

“Well it was nice seeing you here Mr. Jeon, I do hope to meet again after this. I figured my fiance and I should mingle a little bit, give me a true chance to show her off,” Doyoung smiled and shook the hand of Mr. Jeon before finally walking away with you hanging onto his elbow. You truly had no idea where he was going, but he made a beeline for somewhere and you were stuck following him, muttering hellos and nice to meet yous every time someone would try and speak with you two. Eventually Doyoung’s pace slowed and you found yourself near the back of the room by a couple security guards and a folding table for two. In true gentlemanly fashion, Doyoung pulled out a chair and motioned for you to sit before sitting himself right across from you.

“Fiance? Really? Seems kinda sus for a first date no?” Doyoung laughed, his gummy smile radiating pure sunshine at you from across the table. His tone and vocabulary completely shifted from the proper one he used with his political associates to a nonchalant and friendly one. You smiled back at him, giggling just a bit when Doyoung couldn’t quite stop his laughter.

“I have no clue. But on the brightside, I don’t think you’ll have to worry about girls wanting to court you anymore?” You shrugged your shoulders, signalling that if anyone did try, you weren’t to blame.

“That may very well be, but I can’t help but wonder what the headlines will look like once this news gets out. Maybe ‘Kim Dongyoung Engagement Announcement?’” Doyoung messed with the position of his watch on his left wrist and looked back up at you, seemingly expecting a response.

“You’re not being creative enough Mr. Kim. I bet it’ll be something like ‘Korea Loses its Most Eligible Bachelor Overnight to a Mysterious New Woman’” or something.” You laughed, thinking of many more outrageously dramatic headlines to come within the next 24 hour.

“Hm maybe. Wanna put something to that bet?” Doyoung asked, leaning ever so slightly over the table closer to you.

“Is that a challenge I hear?” You responded, mirroring his movements.

“You win, you become my real girlfriend. I win, you owe me three more dates then you can leave this entire life behind.” Doyoung sounded solemn when offering you an out, but you took this as a chance to be an outrageous flirt.

“Let’s hope I win then. We can’t add an engagement scandal to your name now can we?” You winked at the man in front of you, who only seemed stunned at your words. All you could do was stare into his eyes, an endless ocean of black drawing you further and further in-until Doyoungs phone went off. Awkwardly coughing, Doyoung answered his phone.

“What do you want? Huh? Now? Impeccable timing man. Yeah. I got it. See you at home. Bye.” Doyoung ended the call and huffed out a stressed sigh. 

“Home?” You questioned. Doyoung never once mentioned his home in all your conversations together-granted you had only known him for 13 hours. But you were still curious.

“That was my brother, of sorts. Anyways we have to talk to the ambassador from West Africa now, he just arrived. Is my fiance ready?” Doyoung drug out the word fiance as if to flirt and mock you at the same time. You could only roll your eyes and smile. He held out his hand for you to take and led you to a group of officials you could only assume were the West African Ambassador’s party. The ambassador himself was first to acknowledge the two of you.

“Ah Mr. Senator Kim! What a pleasure it is to meet you again, and under much, better, circumstances. I do apologize for the actions of my guards, their aim is just terrible. And who might this lovely young lady on your arm be?” The ambassador spoke, shaking Doyoungs hand and then yours. But the one thing that caught your attention was the stress the Ambassador put on the word ‘better’ and then his mention of his guards’ terrible aim. Did they shoot at Doyoung? Why would a Senator of Korea be shot at by a West African guard? Is there something Doyoung isn’t telling you about?

“This is my fiance, Ms. Y/L/N. I do apologize for the lack of mentions about her, you see not even my staff knew about her until this morning.” Doyoung’s words were short and almost crude, his tone overly nice. It was obvious he didn’t like this man.

“Not a worry Mr. Kim. She’s lovely. You’re a lucky man. My daughter was too shy to come anyways. She’ll be heartbroken, but one can only do so much in the way of a fiance, yeah?” You had a hard time making sense of his words, half due to his heavy accent and half due to the fact that you couldn’t stop thinking about the possibility of Doyoung being shot at.

“I do appreciate the understanding, Ambassador. Now, do you have it?” Doyoung asked, eyeing you as if you were listening in on a conversation you shouldn’t be hearing. You were just thoroughly confused about everything happening. Doyoung could’ve been shot and now he’s cryptically asking for something? There’s definitely more to this Senator than meets the eye. 

“Only if you have what I asked for, Mr Kim.” The Ambassador responded, signalling to someone in his party to do something, because the minute the Ambassador’s hand moved, the man nodded and left as if he was on a mission.

“You should find that it’s exactly where you need it. We’re very thankful for this, Ambassador. Should you ever need help in the future, don’t hesitate to ask.” Doyoung shook the Ambassadors hand one more time before returning his arm to your waist, pulling you closer into his side. You were now clueless as to who this “we” was that Doyoung mentioned. Did it have to do with the brother-of-sorts he mentioned earlier? One of the Ambassador’s other men leaned over and whispered something to him, making the Ambassador smile.

“You are all set Mr. Kim. Thank you for the generosity. We will definitely be in contact should we ever need help.” With that, Doyoung smiled and turned on his heels towards the door. You wanted to ask Doyoung so many questions but before you could he pulled out his phone and opened a news app.

“Looks like you won this bet, Ms. Y/L/N. I do look forward to our future together,” Doyoung said as he shoved the phone screen in your face. You had to hold his shaky wrist to stabilize the words enough to read the latest headline “Kim Dongyoung, Korea’s Most Eligible Bachelor, Stolen by Mysterious New Woman.

[nitannichionne]

Luna IV Chapter 14: The Claiming of Syverson (A Cavill / Syverson Fan Fic)

CHAPTER FOURTEEN: THE CLAIMING OF SYVERSON

“Come on, Kane,” you mumble. The dog was alright, but there were times can feel it watching you. It stands outside any door you go into, and is very wary of men. Merchants would give a discount just to keep you moving. When you are alone, however, he became like a puppy. You like him best that way.

You smile to yourself, hearing Helena’s sing song way of calling your name. You turn and see her making her way to you, starting to actually waddle, the baby was growing so big. When you heard her husband call her sunshine, you were not surprised. Helena always had a sunny disposition.

“Hi!” Helena smiles brightly, finally catching up to you. “Oh, I was hoping you’d come today.”

“Why?” you ask, slowing your usual walk for her benefit. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” she nods quickly. “It’s just nice to have someone to shop with.

You smile gently. “Well, I figured you’d be here. I hate shopping alone now, thanks to you.” You raise your voice, casting a sideward glance at the older claimed women in the distance as she locks elbows with you. “I mean, where would I get a decent opinion?”

Helena giggles, rolling her eyes. “You’re awful.”

“That’s what Sy tells me,” you joke softly as they walked by a fruit booth.

“That’s what they say too,” Helena nods quickly in the direction of the other women. “Women have been trying to get Sy since he got here. They keep asking how you did it.”

You chuckle, and then sigh. “I’ll be honest, I’m not sure.”

“Oh, don’t let them hear you say that!” Helena giggled back.

You give a unladylike snort. “Don’t worry, I’m sure Kane’ll get ‘em.” You give the dog a pat on the head. “Won’t ya, boy?”

“Is Sy still worried?”

“Yeah, he still is,” you frown. “I am claimed. There’s really not much anyone can do now.”

“Well, all I know is that security is tighter now,” Helena informs as they stop to look at smoked meat. “He’s made it harder for people to get into Luna IV…oh, I do miss food pellets sometimes.”

“I don’t,” you shake your head. “My father didn’t believe in them…ever.”

“Really?”

“Nope.”

“Are you ready for tonight?”

You feel a flock of butterflies in your stomach. “Ready as I’ll ever be.”

“You’re going to do it,” Helena said excitedly. “You’re really going to do it!”

“Yeah,” you nod, your thoughts turning to Sy. “I’ve been working on this all month.” Tonight, you would lay your claim on Simon Syverson.

You make preparations and prepare a meal. You fill the house with scents like jasmine and lavender, even a little vanilla. You redecorated the house, and now you wait.

You hear him enter, and freeze. Your heart pounds as you know he is noting the changes of the house. He finally comes into view and his blue eyes widen at the décor as he deeply inhales, his eyes closing and then opening with a grin. He looks about and finally his eyes meet yours “Wow, baby, a tent inside?.” His wonder fades as his gaze travels your body, looking at the new dress which bragged of his family colors. You smile wider as he blinks at the buckle around your waist, newly cleaned and polished by your hand. He swallows hard at the choker she has only removed once since he put it on her, and that was to clean and polish it as well. He shakes his head and chuckles, “You’ve been busy.”

You cannot help but laugh at that as you sit and watch his eyes glisten. “Sy”

“Yes?”

You know the words. You have studied your lost culture. You have never really cared as much, but you want this man to be yours as much as you are his. “Will you let me care for you?”

Sy stilled.

You blink, feeling unsure. “It is Orion—“

“Yes.”

“Oh…” You blink and look around. You rise quickly, feeling nervous, and walk to him, holding out your hands. “Please sit.”

He puts his large hands in your small ones and allows himself to be led to the cushions and table. He sits on one of the cushions, cross-legged and waiting. He is pleasantly surprised to watch you straddle him. He runs his fingers over your sides in appreciation as he sniffs your neck.

“Something to eat?” you offered. You licked her lips waiting for an answer, mouth gone dry.

He gives you one of his sensual smiles and lowers his voice. “I’m sure I could do for an appetizer.”

You reach over to the table, selecting fresh bread and dunking it in a sauce. You feed the appetizer to him slowly.  It is followed by small wafers of bread with meat and cheeses for more dunking of different sauces. You even hold his glass of wine as he drinks.

He is enjoying all this, you think as he patiently watches you put together each mouthful, take each sip of wine you tilt into his mouth. Your heart melts even more. This was a soldier, a man with great responsibility. He cares for and protects you, listens when you speak and possesses you in ways that are almost addictive. He honor and accepts you and even came down on one knee in allegiance when he asked you wear his family crest. You realize the depth of your words. You want to care for him. He deserves it.

“This is a tradition?”

He had broken into your thoughts, your eyes focusing on his again. “Yes.”

He looks at the bowl of chocolate that had not been touched, and runs his fingers down your spine. “May I make a request?”

“Of course.” You squirm, trying not to arch against him, but not fully succeeding. Your blood was heating.

“I want to eat chocolate off you,” he touches your lips, dips his finger in the bowl and glazes your lips with it.

You blink. “Alright.” When you reach for it, he catches your hand and presses his lips to it, making you exhale heavily. “I want to serve you—“

“Serving you is serving myself,” he says softly, smiling up at you.

“Serving you is serving myself,” you echo. This was not part of any custom-Orioni or Luna III-but a statement had never been truer for you both. You frame your face in his hands and kiss him, feeling his lips lick yours as his embrace becomes tighter.

He dips his fingers into the bowl and makes lines from under your ear along your neck to the neckline of your dress. He slowly unfastens your belt, carefully setting it aside with his clean hand, and opens your dress so he can coat each of your breasts with it. He uses more of it to coat your lips again. You shyly smile and laugh as it drips onto your chin. He mirrors your expression and then starts licking the sweetness from your lips. He parts yours with his own and kisses you deeply. You take turns sucking on each other’s tongues, and then he stops to suck the treat from her chin.

A small moan escaped you as he continues lower with his eyes closed, using his mouth and nose to track the chocolate over her body as one would read the trail on a map. It was a game, with the most rewarding tastes of salt and sweet. You both pant, reveling in each other’s touch and taste. You become aware of his hands running up and down your legs and hips, and you move lightly against him, feeling him against you. His arms support your upper body as you arch in arousal.  

“Will…you unite with me?” you ask.

He barely stifled his chuckle at her breathless request. “Of course.”

This part has to be done, you tell yourself. You move to sit up, and he helps you. You reach to the fruit tray and pull the knife from it. You cut your finger, gasping softly.

He does not hide his surprise. “What—“

You keep your finger erect as you reached for the table again and pull a thin leather rope with a hollowed crystal dangling from it. You lace the rope with your blood and then bled into the small chasm. Satisfied there was enough, you look to him. “Will you unite with me?”

He understands, and shows no hesitation as he did the last time she asked. He took the knife from her, cut his finger, and did all that she had, their life forces intermingling in the clear stone. He raises his eyes to yours, waiting.

“As long as you wear this,” you whisper, closing the crystal and sealing it with a laser pen from the table. “we are never apart.” You put the necklace around his neck. “Let all who behold this know that you belong.”

He takes a deep breath, looking at you, a wealth of feeling in his eyes. “Thank you.”

“We should clean our wounds, ourselves,” You say softly, rising and taking his hands in yours. “Come with me.”

He nods yes, and lets you lead him. You had run a bath. The sunken tub is warm and inviting as you both stepped down to sit. He sighs as you take a sponge, and begin to bathe him gently, starting from his head and working downward. You begin to tremble, remembering past times you had joined with him, how good he felt. You keep your hand steady with effort to make this good for him, but your heart starts to race. He closes his eyes, savoring your gentle and careful caresses, smiling when you linger in some areas. You did it to calm yourself. What is happening?

His eyes open, full of desire. “Love?”

“Hmm?”

“The moon is rising.”

“I know.”

“No, baby, a full moon is rising.”

The implication of his words slams into you. “Sy—”

“Your turn,” he growls softly, pulling you across his lap, bringing your leg around to straddle him. He runs his fingers over your hair gently, and kisses her neck slowly. He uses the sponge to stroke your back firmly, letting the kisses trail up to your ear and finally to your mouth, moaning softly at the taste of you again as you sigh in surrender, responding in kind. His mouth dips lower to your breasts, taking one in and applying enough pressure to make her arch yet again as he caresses the other. He grinds against you gently, and your head falls back as your breath hitches.

“Uhhh…” You moan as he rounds your rear, pulling your hips into his. He turns you and raises you effortlessly and slowly brings you down on his erection. You moan softly, grabbing his thighs as you melt around him, your cries wordless as sexual relief washes over you like the warm water your bodies are in. His lips, tongue and teeth alternate on your neck and back in lines and patterns, making your arch as he plays havoc with the front of her body when you lean against him. His arm goes around your waist and he secures you to him as he turns you toward the lip of the tub, your knees on the seat as you feel him surge forward, his hips pushing slightly upward for more impact. Kitten cries escaped you as you begin to move with him, helplessly lost in his steadying but gentle hands, the feel of him rocking back and forth within you with water as welcome and added stimulus, moving and splashing with your bodies. Finally you cried out, your body convulsing around him, your hips rocking on him. He pulls out of you slowly and sits you on the bench. You extend your arms and hold onto the tub’s edge as he wraps your legs around you and thrusts back inside, pumping you furiously, making you scream as he plucked and caressed your lovelips and bud. Your head falls back as your body releases screams and spasms, gasping and coming uncontrollably in his arms.

He kisses your shoulders and turns, sitting with you on top of him, still embedded, still pulsing inside you. You wrap your arms around him, your knees squeezing to keep him in position and let your body claim him, your body commanding every move solely based on his moans, his pulse within you. The moon increases your fervor as you ride him hard, and he moans louder, yielding to you., only holding you lovingly and reveling in the roll of her hips. You suck your breath every time, with every thrust as he began to move, releasing it in a deep moan that told him how you needed and wanted him…and would again…always…

He rises from the water, and you wrap around hiim. He takes you back to the pillows and lays you across the large one so that your head is a little lower than her body. Kneeling between your legs he licks you, moaning softly when your juices flowed. He sucks your lovelips, teasing you, thrusting two fingers inside you. You scream his name and then moan as he thrust his tongue as deeply as he can, giving her a whole new sensation to savor. As your body began to twist in silent plea to him to be filled, he withdraws and thrusts into you, holding your ankles so her legs couldn’t lock around him. He works you, his hips gyrating, and you move with him almost desperately, helplessly. He leans forward and pushes your knees back, laying on you to piston in and out of you fully. He built the tension inside you until you finally exploded in a scream of bliss. He growls as he bucks against you, his body responding in kind, shuddering in release. You are both trembling, riding out waves of passion and desire, your breaths combined moans as you instinctively squeeze him and he spills his life into you. You curl wordlessly against each other, planting stray kisses, cheek to cheek snuggles. This is how it was supposed to be, you both know. Luna III had it wrong. Maybe even Luna II did too. You served each other to serve yourselves, and nothing felt better than that.

“Now,” he pants lightly, kissing you. “Who belongs to who?”

You laugh breathlessly, touching his face. “I honestly don’t know.”

@fckdeusername @maan24  @rn7rocks @kaatelyyynn  @october505 @absentmindedreader @introvertedmouse

[a-simple-imagine]

Welcome to Westworld

Synopsis: Y/N and Natasha visit Westworld where they meet a particular blonde.

Pairing: Natasha Romanoff x fem!reader,  elements of Dolores x fem!reader

Words: 4.2k+

A/N - This turned out a little longer than expected and totally self-indulgent. I guess it is a crossover.

"Can you believe we're  actually here?" Excitement oozed from every word that left your lips as you step off the train. It was nothing more than a train station but you couldn't help but admire it. It was almost too perfect, the pristine white and black of every surface; it was elegant. Even the people who occupied the platform were dressed in white.

"Not really," Natasha groaned, pushing you gently forward. "All I got from Tony for my birthday was a card."

"Yeah... well... I'm his favourite."

It was definitely meant as a brag after all this place cost thousands of dollars. A young woman calls out your name as she approaches. She was a traditional kind of pretty, piercing blue eyes with not a blonde hair out of place. Not a blemish on her ivory skin. "Welcome to Westworld."

Natasha was already being lead away by one of the men in white as you follow your guide.

"Given it's your first visit, I have a few questions for you."  She draws your attention back. The woman proceeds to inquire about your medical history; basic questions about previous conditions and your mental health. She takes you up the escalators, and at the top is a giant screen advertising the park. You couldn't wait to get inside.

"So how does this all work?" You wonder, "Is there like an orientation... or tutorial, maybe?"

The other woman smiles ever so softly, it was a gorgeous smile. "No orientation, half the fun is figuring out how it all works. You'll start in the town at the centre of the park; it's relatively safe. Then the further you go out the more intense the experience becomes. how far you go is up to you."

You nod along as she speaks; wondering if Natasha is going through the same line of questioning. "Makes sense."

The woman whose name you have yet to be told leads you into what you assume is a dressing room. Different selections of clothes lined the walls. With glass display cases in the centre. "This will be the first choice you make; everything in here is bespoke and exactly your size so please take your time."

You drift over to a display of dresses. They ranged from simple picnic dresses to eccentric ball gowns. Your fingers dance over the material of each dress before selecting a blue one. It had a high collar to frame the face paired with a flattering "V" cut. long leg-o-mutton sleeves and full skirt with pockets. It was adorned with a delicate red rose pattern. "Found something you like?"

You almost forgot she was here. You shake your head, placing the dress back. Your eyes fall to a display case of pistols that stood centre. "Are those real?" You ask as you walk over.

"Real enough," She responds; the guns were in perfect 3 x 3 lines.

"I thought you couldn't get hurt here," you comment as you look over the following case which held a few shotguns.

"Only the right amount." You look to her, brows furrowed a little before focusing on the suits. You didn't have anything against the dresses but they weren't practical for what you had in mind. A suit on the other hand; you'd look like a traditional cowboy.  You select a black jacket before turning to your little companion.

"Uh... should I get changed in another room or?"

"I can help you or I can step out of you like," you chucked a little until you realised she was serious. The blonde takes a few steps closer, you swallow hard at how close she is. She smells good; sweet. "Whatever, you want."

You're stunned for a moment. "I... can dress myself- thank you though, really."

she smiled tightly before wandering away. "I'll be outside if you need anything."

You opted for a long black jacket with matching slacks that were held up by suspenders. A striped white shirt and a little red scarf to complete the look. You had a gun holster strapped to your hip with a small silver pistol lodged in it. You'd gotten changed a couple of times before finally settling on this look and went to find your guide. "How do I look?"

"Time for the final touch," she leads you to a corridor with hats hug up on the wall. In different colours and sizes. You select a white hat to help break up the black a little; it was more tan than white. An Ivory hat. And thus concluded your introduction to the world, she left you to walk down a long corridor to a brown door. You twisted the nob and walked through to an ensemble of men and women. It was old fashioned, really looked the part. You find Natasha sat at the bar, nursing a whiskey.

"Damn, cowboy," you comment playfully, "Is this seat taken?"

Natasha turns to you, eyes drifting over your outfit as you take in hers. She wore dark brown trousers with a lighter brown vest no shirt underneath which showed off her arms. A brown hat on her head. "I'm surprised you didn't come out in one of those dresses, you're not gonna be too hot in that?"

"I almost did," You shrug a little, glancing around at the men in costumes. "I don't reckon so but I can always take off the jacket."

The bartender poured you a drink you never asked for which you took with a smile, heading over to get a look out the window. There was nothing but darknesses you twisted on your heel to glance back at her. "I wonder what it's like...

The once cramped compartment felt so much freer as light spilled into the cabin. You turn quickly to get the first glimpse of Westworld. The large mountains, canyons, the blue sky. It was all... surreal. This place must be absolutely huge.

Pulling up to the station; you're not even sure how you got on the train. Yes you walked through the door but how did a static door lead to a moving train? You get down off the train almost too scared to step into the unknown. Natasha trailed behind you as you walk into the small town of Sweetwater. It didn't seem all that big but it was busy. Too many things were hitting you at once you weren't sure what part to take in.

"Slow down, dude," you almost stumble into two girls as she calls out to you but you manage to dodge, with each step you feel your confidence grow.

"Come on Natasha," she's a fair few paces behind. "What should we do first- Hurry up,"

You wait for her to catch up before continuing. Glancing at each building as if trying to find something to break the immersive experience but everything seemed like it fit into this world perfectly. You couldn't even tell who were guests and who were the hosts, everything just worked. "What do you wanna do?"

"I don't know, it's your present." A large white building catches your eye. MARIPOSA was written in large black letters across the top of the building, above some decking. Saloon and hotel were written slightly smaller. "I think we should-"

Her voice drifts as you wander over to a poster that was pinned to a post, fluttering gently in the breeze. You flatten it out and a giant smile spreads over your lips as the words WANTED becoming clear as day

"You sure you can handle that?" The voice of reason has returned. Natasha was stood behind you.

"I'm a tough girl," you argue, "I could do it."

"Maybe start smaller, yeah? Stay in town get the lay of the land-"

You're not in the mood for Natasha's sensibility. Maybe you weren't ready to go hunting for outlaws but you could if you wanted to and surely you could find someone around here willing to help out. It's almost second nature to drown out her talking when you don't wanna listen as your attention becomes drawn somewhere else once again. You catch sight of a woman with a tan and black horse. Her light blue dress stood out against the otherwise drab colour scheme. She had beautiful golden hair that absorbed the sun. You don't know what it is but you can't help but watch her for a moment as she tries to shove a bag into the satchel on her horse; a can spilling out and onto the floor. Without a second thought, you're walking towards her, scooping up the can.

"Excuse me miss, I think you dropped this." Her delicate features come into view and you have to take a step back to appreciate. She was beautiful; overly so. Some would even say perfect. Her lips curled up into a gracious smile that brings joy to your face.

"Stop running off on me," Natasha scolds as she walks up behind, placing a hand on your shoulder. "Who's this?"

It takes you a moment to even comprehend that Natasha is talking. "Uhhh... I don't know."

"I'm Dolores," the otherwise annoying southern drawl is charming to the ear. "Thank you for the can,"

"You're Welcome," you tilt your cowboy hat a little, introducing yourself and Natasha. "So are you from around here, Dolores?"

"I am," she nods, smiling brightly. "I live just down the road but I don't think I've ever seen you two before. Suppose you're some of those newcomers, we get a lot of those."

You glance to Natasha who just shrugs. If she lived here that meant she was a host even though she definitely didn't seem like one. And you technically were newcomers just not in the way she's probably thinking. "That we are ma'am. I hate to be a bother but we were wondering if you might now what there is to do for fun around here?"

"It's no bother," she deliberates for a moment, putting the can away on her horse. "I guess it would depend on what you're looking for."

"I guess it would," you chuckle. Half the fun is figuring it out but you had no clue where to start. "Uh... what do you do for fun?"

She looks to you for a moment, paused in thought. "I go to my favourite spot by the river and paint."

"That sounds nice," not what you were expecting her to say but sure. You look to Natasha wondering what she wants to do.

"I think we should secure a place to sleep and eat first, maybe get a drink too."

"Alright," You sigh, logic beats fun here. Secure food and shelter was a very Natasha thing to say. "Would you mind taking us out tomorrow? We could go down to the river- I promise we won't get in the way?"

"I would be delighted." You can't help but feel a little delight at her words. "I'll meet you two back here tomorrow morning then."

"Perfect."

"Do you have horses?" The blonde asks, climbing up and onto hers.

"I'm afraid not we came on the train, know where we can get one?"

"I can bring some if you like?" She offered, her hand patting her horse a couple of times. "Or there is a stable on the edge of town, they should have a few if you got the money."

"We'll buy a few, thanks." May as well get some for the duration of your stay.

"I guess I'll see you two tomorrow then,"

"Bye Dolores," you wave as she rides off. Instantly turning to Natasha with the giddiness of a small child.

"I can't believe we came all the way here and you just wanna sit on the side of a river with some random girl."

"I wanted to go bounty hunting but you said no," you huff. "Besides, it's just one day. I'm pacing myself so where to next?"

"I need a drink but maybe we should get a couple horses first?"

"Okay... let's find the stables,"

It takes a while to find the stables. In the end Natasha had to ask a local who pointed you in the right direction. The stables were a big reddish-brown barn with a paddock to the left. One door was left open so you just wandered on in. It was considerably darker inside, dirty too. Despite the smell, there didn't actually seem to be a horse in sight.

"Howdy, folks. You looking to sell or buy?" An older gentleman startles you from the right. He had a white mustache but lacked hair on top of his head.

"Buy? How much is a horse?"

"Depends on the horse missy." You weren't sure how you felt about being called missy but you let it slide. "I've only got one left, ain't too many selling these days but he's a real beaut."

"Can we afford this?" Natasha asks quietly. The thing with theme parks was that despite the expensive entry fee, nothing seemed to come for free. You could steal a horse but that seemed risky so buying one was the next option.

"I don't know but Tony said to go nuts. I'm taking that as buy the horse."

In the very back stood just that; a horse. Black as the night with patches of white across his back, a crescent of white adorned the top of his head. "He's a big fella but gentle as can be," he reaches over to run his hand across the horse's nose. "I should be getting more in soon but this is the best I got for now. I'll even throw in everything you need to look after him, saddle and all."

"We'll take him," you declare quickly before Natasha can have a chance to say no.

"Great, let me just grab his papers."

You smile to Natasha. "Go pay the man,"

With a roll of her eyes, she wonders after the stable keeper. Staying with the horse, you walk closer; reaching out slowly. The animal was soft to the touch and made your smile brighten. "I think I'll call you moonshine."

Natasha returns a moment later with papers in hand. "He's ours."

"Great... do you know how to ride a horse?" You ask Natasha. The stable guy opens the door to let the horse trot out so he can attach the saddle. You watch him carefully to make sure you remember the process just in case.

"Do you?" You didn't so you shake your head. You'd never thought the skill would come in handy.

"Guess it's time to learn."

"You're all set," The man announces, slapping his hands together.

"Thank you," you take the horse's reigns and begin walking back towards the door. Thankfully the horse follows. "Where to next?"

"Food?" Natasha suggests. "Find a place to sleep.

"Let's hitch the horse and grab some food, I think I saw a restaurant back in town."

"Hitch the horse- listen to you cowboy."

After dinner, you retire to the Sweetwater inn. It was incredibly cheap but money was different back then so it makes sense. The next morning, Natasha is up at the crack of dawn, waking you up at around ten. You have breakfast before finding Dolores at the wayside.

"Morning, you two."

"Good morning, Dolores." You answer with a yawn.

"I see you got yourself a horse,"

"His name is Moonshine," you answer. "They only had one though."

"That's alright. One of you can ride with me."

"I'll ride with you," You weren't giving up the chance to get closer to her. Natasha's brows furrow at your eagerness. "I don't trust Natasha on a horse."

You climb up behind Dolores and it's a little daunting being up so high up. It's instinctive to put your arms around her to make yourself feel safer. Heat rushing to your cheeks as you realise you've just grabbed a woman you hardly know.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-" you pull away.

"It's alright, have you ever ridden a horse before?" Dolores quarries.

Your head shakes. "No."

Reaching behind her, she searches for your hands. You take hold of hers and she places them around her. "We'll be okay just hold tight."

Dolores feels warm in your embrace and she smells like fresh linen. It's weird how... normal she felt. You kind of expected her to feel hard and cold but she felt like any other human being. It's like when you put your arms around Natasha who gets annoyed when you don't let go. "I'll go slow at first so you can get used to it."

You nod a little even though she can't see and with a flick of her wrist, the horse starts moving. Your grip tightens around her at the motion but you relax with a heavy sigh. It takes a second but you work up the courage to look at Natasha who seems at home aboard Moonshine; no surprise there.

"You doing okay back there?"

"Mhmm,"

The horse gets faster but it's not as bad this time; you've grown accustomed to the motion. You don't know how long you're up there for but you approach the river with a gentle curiosity. Natasha helps you down form the horse, which doesn't seem as big from the ground. Looking out over the river, it was a beautiful spot of lush green. Natasha walks up beside you as Dolores collects her things from her horse. "She felt real," you hum quietly, not bothering to look at her. "Like I don't know how to explain it... she doesn't feel like a machine."

"Doesn't mean she isn't one," Natasha pats you firmly on the back. "Remember that,"

You watch her walk to the river edge before glancing at Dolores who had set up her axel.

"Whose horses are those?" You ask out loud, pointing to a spot where three horses roamed. They seemed to be enjoying the grass.

"Oh they're wild," Dolores replies. "Do you want to get closer?"

With Dolores leading the way, you approach the three beasts. One was chestnut brown, the other tan and finally the third was a greyish white. The white horse trots closer to the two of you as Dolores offers out her hand.

"Here," she hands you a slice of apple. "Put your hand out real flat."

Doing as instructed, the horse seems cautious but eventually takes the free food leaving a little slobber in its wake.

"Hey Nat, we could have just gotten a couple of these instead of buying one."

"I don't know about you but I don't think we could tame a wild one."

"They're really quite gentle," The host interrupts, stroking the neck of the horse. You're utterly amused by the whole situation. This place was, in terms of technology, so advanced, and yet life was simple. It was the little moments that were so enticing- although you still wanted to go chase criminals at some point.

The day is spent with Dolores. It's joyful and peaceful although you're not sure how much fun Natasha is having. As the sun began to set and Dolores insisted she had to get home, you go your separate ways and head back to Sweetwater with Natasha.

Tonight was Natasha's turn to pick and so you ended up in the Saloon. It was surprisingly full and lively. A man sat at the piano, playing tune after tune. There was a poker game taking place between a group of men. And you were pretty sure there were working girls wondering about offering their... services.

"How do you think they make them so realistic?" You think out loud as you stand at the bar. "Like Dolores was one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen. And there's just no way you could tell she wasn't another human being without knowing beforehand."

"Will you shut up about Dolores," Natasha groaned. "There are plenty of other..."

Her voice trails off and you find a stranger stood just behind you. She was a pretty brunette and sporting a deep blue ruffled and laced corset dress. It looked good on her. A soft hand danced ever so lightly over the skin of your cheek. "You're new," she hums, bringing her fingertips to her lips. "Not much of a rind on you."

You swallow hard under her gaze as she smiles. "I can give you a discount. It's normally five dollars but I can do it for four."

You glance towards Natasha, it had become a habit since entering the park. You wanted to gauge her reaction; figure out what she deemed okay. "Go ahead," The redhead brings a shot glass to her lips, knocking it back. "I don't care if you fuck a robot,"

"She's not-" you cut yourself off, "thank you for the offer ma'am but I'm gonna have to decline. Maybe another time."

"You don't have to be so negative all the time." You growl as you lean down against the bar, signaling for the bartender to refill your glass. "Maybe actually pretend to enjoy this place."

"How am I being negative?"

"The point of this place is to have fun and experience the old west. Live without limits," you try to keep your voice down but not so much it's drowned out by everything else going on in here. "You don't have to keep telling me everything isn't real- I know that. I know the hosts aren't people but they're basically the same so just stop it. Maybe I should have come alone."

You down a shot of whiskey which burns as it drifts down your throat before finding a seat at an empty table. "Look I'm sorry," Natasha takes up the seat opposite you. "I'll try to take this more seriously okay? I don't mean to ruin your experience."

"Would you really not be mad if I fucked that girl?"

"I mean... it's your money to waste. Why? Are you curious."

"Maybe just a little," you chuckle. It was a genuine curiosity if you were being honest. Surely they can't feel real in those moments. "I won't though."

Natasha is relatively happy as you get a couple drinks in her, so the night practically flies by. You even try your hand at a little poker which you're bad at but Natasha seems to be cleaning up.

Day 3 of your Westworld adventure and you're not quite sure what to do. Where to go? Or who to talk to? You stood staring at the wanted poster from the day you walked in. Natasha was in the general store picking up some supplies. Maybe today was the day to do something a little more... exciting. Then you spot her again; Dolores. She brings a smile to your lips as you watch her but it's quick to fade as three men approach her. You can't hear them but you also can't just assume they have bad intentions so you keep an eye on the interaction. Mainly on Dolores in the middle and when she tries to push past and they stop her, you spring into action.

"Fellas, how about you leave my friend here alone."

They all turn to you and you take a step back. Are they hosts or guests? You couldn't tell. "Or what?" A nasally voice assaults your ears. The owner was a short man with thick brown hair. "We can do whatever we want so fuck off."

"I said, leave her alone." You stand your ground, hand lingering on the gun you hadn't had the honour of using just yet. "Now."

The biggest of the lot was a burly man with a thick beard. He definitely seemed like he would win if this ended in a fistfight. He towers over you, grabbing you by the arm but before you can react, Natasha is between you. Pressing the man's arm up against his back. "You so much as look at my girlfriend again and I will break your arm, you understand? Now the lady asked you nicely to leave so I'd listen if I were you."

Natasha releases him and he fixes himself. A triumphant smirk appears on your lips. You may have wanted to test out your gun but maybe Natasha jumping in had been for the best. "Come on boys. It's not worth it."

"Thank you," Dolores looks relieved to see you and it fills you with an undeniable warmth. There was just something about her that you absolutely adored; and it wasn't just the pretty face.

"It was no big deal," You respond casually. "Some guys can be such assholes."

"Still, I'm grateful." You're proud of yourself even if Natasha did the heavy lifting. "I'd love to have you over for dinner tonight to say thank you. I'm sure my daddy would love to have you join us."

"We would love to," Natasha answers for you; you a little surprised actually. This was the first time Natasha seemed interested in Dolores, you kinda thought she hated her. "As long as it's no trouble."

"None at all." Dolores insisted, climbing onto her horse. "Just grab your horse and we can go now. I'll show you the rest of the ranch too."

You walk alongside Natasha to collect moonshine from outside the general store. "I can't believe you nearly got into a fight over a fucking robot."

[ryuukia]

[Translation] SolidS Drama Vol.5 “One faithful day, I saw you laughing under the starry sky” Track 3

Now that online courses have become a thing worldwide, I have more time to translate. I have to say, this track gets rather emotional towards the end and I was even considering posting the audio together with the translation, but decided not to (the bgm is increasing the pain). I still recommend listening to the CD while reading this, it makes everything feel more natural and vivid.

Many thanks to Ryota for helping me proof this.

Please don’t repost/retranslate/reuse my translations. Likes and reblogs are appreciated.

Track 3: Gloomy

Eichi: Well then, I’ll head back. It seems Issei and Icchi have also returned.

Rikka: Give them my regards.

Eichi: Okay, I’ll let them know! And once again, good job today! You were really cool.

Rikka: Thanks.

Eichi: Feel free to tag along in our common room. I’m sure the others would be happy. Ah, I’ll leave the walking coaching in your hands too!

Rikka: Roger. Talk to you later then!

Eichi: Okay, laters!

-the two separate-

Rikka: I’m back!

Tsubasa: Oh, welcome back, Rikka!

Rikka: I’m back, Tsubasa. 

Tsubasa: Good job with the shooting! That finished surprisingly fast. I thought it would take longer. 

Rikka: We advanced pretty smoothly. Want to see the results together?

Tsubasa: Oh! Show me, show me!

Rikka: Uhh -taps-... Here it is.

Tsubasa: Let’s see~. Whoa, how nice! You look so pretty! It’s not really the kind of style SolidS would lean on.

Rikka: I tend to shoot a lot of simpler poses when I do photoshoots alone. Women’s magazines seem to prefer off-shot casual portraits. 

Tsubasa: Dai-chan and Eichi went to the studio to watch the shoot, right? How nice~! I wanted to tag along too~. Oh, when is the magazine going to be released? Let me know later, I want to mark it on the calendar. I won’t forget to check it out!

Rikka: You don’t really need to go and buy it, we’ll be receiving a sample anyway.

Tsubasa: What are you saying? It’s a lot better to go and buy it for myself especially when I’m excited about it~!

Rikka: Really~ You’ve always been good at knowing what to say to cheer me up, huh~ Should I brew some tea? I brought some souvenirs with me.

Tsubasa: Oh! Lucky me~! Just when I thought I was hungry. What did you buy?

Rikka: This. Daifuku with beans. 

Tsubasa: Oh, Japanese sweets. That sure is unusual.

Rikka: They’re really delicious. I’m sure you’re going to like them.

Tsubasa: Hearing you say that makes me want to eat them immediately! But… maybe it’s better to wait until Dai-chan gets back… But stilllll…

Rikka: Eh? Dai’s not back yet?

Tsubasa: Yeah. I called him earlier. He said something about going out to a bouldering gym for a bit.

Rikka: Eh? How nice…I want to go too…

Tsubasa: I told him the same thing and he answered “Don’t.”, then ended the call. 

Rikka: -chuckles- He’s probably shy. He must have started going there recently. 

Tsubasa: I'm sure that Dai-chan falling is gonna be cute, too!

Rikka: -laughs- I guess he won’t let you come because you’d say that. And now all this talking made me hungry too. 

Tsubasa: Alright! Let’s dig in then! Dai-chan will have to bear our bragging when he’s back!

Rikka: Okay! Wait for a second.

-Rikka goes to the kitchen-

Rikka: What were your plans for today, Tsubasa?

Tsubasa: I came home pretty late yesterday, but I’m off today. I woke up in the afternoon and spent the rest of my day checking interview articles. 

Rikka: What’s the point of your day-off then?

Tsubasa: I’ve been so busy with things I need to finish lately that Fumi-chan grinned from ear to ear while scolding me. He made me promise not to go out today.

Rikka: He probably… won’t let you out until you’re done with it.

Tsubasa: Exactly! Ah, but I’m sure that this’ll definitely take a while. What about Rikka? When do you do your work?

Rikka: If I can’t find enough time to do all of them, I tend to spend 10 minutes or so doing what I have to before I sleep.

Tsubasa: Wha, how efficient! Though I’m the type who likes to finish everything in one go.

-Rikka places the tea on the table-

Rikka: That part of you's just like Shiki, Tsubasa.

Tsubasa: Eeh, don’t put us in the same boat!

Rikka: I completely meant it as a compliment though...

Tsubasa: That didn’t feel like a praise at all.

Tsubasa: Speaking of Shiki, hasn’t he been kind of strange lately? I haven’t seen his face once today. What is he doing?

Rikka: Right. I don’t know. Work’s been keeping me out of the dorm, so I didn’t really get the chance to see him. Here, your tea.

Tsubasa: Wha, thank you~! Mmmm, it’s delicious!

Rikka: I’ve been going to his room daily to check on him in the morning and evening. 

Tsubasa: Ooh, Rikka is so nice! Thanks for the food!

-Tsubasa tries the daifuku-

Tsubasa: HM!? What’s this!? It’s amazing! So good!!

Rikka: Right?

Tsubasa, munching: By any chance, is this one here with the fresh cream meant to be for Shiki?

Rikka: Well… more or less.

Tsubasa: Really, you’re so nice, Rikka. And too soft on Shiki. Soft just like the fresh cream.  

Rikka: Eeh, is that so?

Tsubasa: It is! You shouldn’t mind him much, y’know? He’s a masochist who loves to drive himself into a corner when it comes to music. Just let him live his jungle life on the Amazon until he’s satisfied.

Rikka: The Amazonian jungle you say…

Tsubasa: I can’t say my own room is super clean, but the way his bedroom looks right before a deadline is simply frightening. So yeah, the Amazon. Plus, Shiki’s the type who’ll clean up on his own if he wants to without us complaining about it. That’s why, fussing about him is sorta pointless in my opinion..

Rikka: …You completely get him now, huh. Even though you fought all the time in the beginning...

Tsubasa: Pretty much. But it’s not like I’m completely going soft on him, okay? If he ever sulks or decides to ignore us, I’ll make sure to knock him back to his senses.

-the door is closed in the background-

Tsubasa: Oh, Dai-chan’s back. 

Dai: I’m back. 

Haiduki: Hello, sorry to disturb.

Rikka: Haiduki-san!

Dai: He picked me up by chance.

Haiduki: I was waiting at the traffic light and I saw a familiar figure. That was a surprise.

Dai: Gotta say though, noticing me just by seeing my back is amazing.

Haiduki: Any capable manager would be able to do that. Ah, tell me more about this bouldering thing after this. 

Dai: That’s fine by me. It got me pretty addicted.

Tsubasa: Oh, so mean! I want to hear about it too!

Dai: You’re too annoying, no way.

Tsubasa: Eh, Dai-chan…

Haiduki: Ah, right. I got a call thanking me for the photoshoot you had today, Rikka. 

Rikka: The arrangements were well done and things went smoothly on the set. The staff also praised Haiduki-san a lot.

Haiduki: I’m glad to hear that. The results made all my adjustments worth it then. That magazine’s surveys got good reactions, so I wish to continue working with them if possible.

Rikka: In that case I hope I can surpass the editors’ enthusiasm.

Tsubasa: Anyway, you came at a good moment, Fumi-chan. We’ve got some delicious daifuku brought home by Rikka here~

Haiduki: Oh, that sounds good. I’ll enjoy them while checking your progress, Tsubasa.

Tsubasa: Half of them were already done, so ever since I woke up I’ve been checking the articles like I promised!!

Haiduki: I’m relieved to hear that. As expected, you’re always ready to walk the talk, Tsubasa. But before that, there’s one more job I need to finish.

Tsubasa: What job?

Dai: The one Shiki’s working on.

Rikka: If that’s the case, may I come with you? I want to bring him some refreshments and check up on him.

Haiduki: Eh? Uhhh... okay. Let’s go together then.

Rikka: -knocks on the door- Shiki, can I come in?

-no answer-

-the door opens-

Shiki: Rikka? Sorry, but-

Shiki: Why are you here?

Haiduki: How are things going? You don’t need to glare at me like that. 

Shiki: Don’t use Rikka as a pretext to enter my room. Sigh. I said I wanted to focus.

Rikka: You’re wrong, Shiki. I asked Haiduki-san to let me come with him. I wouldn’t be able to see your face even once per day otherwise. I wanted to check up on you.

Shiki: I see. Sorry for making you worry.

Rikka: If you’re aware of that, then show your face in the common room from time to time at least. Here, I bought some daifuku. It’s delicious.

Shiki: You’re right. Thank you. So, Haiduki. Care to tell me why you came?

Haiduki: How mean. Do I need a reason to show up? I was around anyway, so I decided to pay you a visit.

Shiki: Don’t make me laugh. You didn't strike me as a worrywart type. I told you this whenever you called or came here to persuade me and I’ll say it again. This time I can’t forgive myself if I give up on this.

Haiduki: This time, huh.

Shiki: If you’re not satisfied with this, go ahead and reconsider it. Anyway, this is my final decision.

Haiduki: I get it, I get it. You don’t need to get so serious. I’ve been thinking of ways for how to break through this, so let’s talk about it constructively and realistically.

Shiki: Sigh. …...Rikka. Sorry, but could you leave Haiduki and me alone for a bit?

Rikka: Eh… sure. Of course. I didn’t mean to interrupt anything. Go ahead.

Haiduki: It seems like it’s not progressing as much as he thought so he doesn’t have much time to relax, is all. It’s nothing bad, so leave the rest to me.

Shiki: Don’t say anything more than necessary, Haiduki.

Haiduki: I get it. See you later then.

-Rikka leaves Shiki’s room-

Tsubasa: Oh, Rikka! Welcome back. How did it go?

Rikka: I... gave him the daifuku.

Dai: Not that, how’s Shiki?

Rikka: Ah, right. He won’t say anything more than usual.

Dai: That’s strange. Shiki’s always been the type to do what he wanted even though people were worrying over him.

Tsubasa: Can’t be helped I guess. I wonder what our mighty leader is so stuck on this time. 

Rikka: Who knows. I was chased away in the middle of the conversation. I don’t really get it…

Rikka: ...Ugh, that’s not it!

-Rikka throws himself on the sofa-

Rikka: Agh, seriously! I’m such an idiot!

Tsubasa: Eeh? What happened?

Dai: Why are you tumbling?

Rikka: I’m just…...mad at myself. 

Tsubasa, whispering: Hey, Dai-chan. Did Rikka ever tumble in self-loathing before?

Dai: Who knows.

Rikka: I feel like that was a bad way to phrase it… I hate it.

Rikka: Maybe I’m just tired…

Tsubasa: Of course, you’d be! You’ve been working since this morning.

Rikka: But right now… I’m...

Dai: I don’t really get what’s going on, but maybe you should eat the daifuku for now.

Tsubasa: Let’s do that! I’ll pour the tea.

Rikka: Mm…...Thank you…

-Tsubasa pours tea-

Tsubasa: Okay, Rikka. Sorry to make you wait. -hands the cup to Rikka-

Tsubasa: Alright. Rikka’s finally feeling tired again.

Dai: Jeez. If you’re feeling that down, you should rant a little if you want to, you know?

Rikka: Sorry… I must be gloomy.

Dai: I wouldn’t really call that ‘gloomy’.

Tsubasa: Right? But honestly, I feel relieved.

Rikka: Why?

Tsubasa: You’re always smiling, calm and gentle, but there’s no way such a perfect human can exist. Plus, everyone’s got something in them that they don’t like.

Dai: Like how Tsubasa’s always noisy and causing uproars.

Tsubasa: Exactly! Also hey, Dai-chan!

Dai: Being exhausted isn’t really surprising. It’s something normal to want to vent out your feelings. If we’re feeling gloomy, I’m sure you’ll comfort us, too.

Rikka: You’re right. Thank you, Dai. And Tsubasa too. 

-Rikka sits up and takes a sip from the tea-

Rikka: It’s delicious. Hot drinks really do heal you.

Tsubasa: I put in all my love. So, what did our mighty leader do to get you like this?

Rikka: Shiki didn’t do anything wrong…

Tsubasa: Then? What’s the problem?

Rikka: It’s just… uhm…I feel like I’m being narrow-minded...

Tsubasa: Aah, I think I got it. Let me guess: he ignored the daifuku despite knowing how worried you were for him, then started to talk about work with Fumi-chan, which got you bitter.

Rikka: Well, I guess… you could say that…

Rikka: Aagh… I’m seriously the worst! 

-Rikka buries his head into the sofa again-

Tsubasa: No, no, no! There’s nothing wrong with you, Rikka. Ughh, seriously. Aaaaaagh! I want to stuff Shiki’s throat with daifuku and curse him to 10 hours of sleep!

Dai: I think that’s more life-threatening than a curse.

Tsubasa: I mean, it doesn’t look like he’s gonna reflect on it without a few good hours on the pillow.

Rikka: It’s fine, really. Shiki’s not at fault. This kind of thing is normal for him. And Haiduki-san is our manager, so it’s something natural to consult him when it’s about work. There are conversations I’m not meant to hear anyway. I’m the one at fault for getting in the middle and turning gloomy on my own.

Rikka: But if I think about it, it’s always been that way. I’ve been fueling my own worries ever since our old days.

Tsubasa: Shiki’s been like that since the beginning?

Rikka: Can you even imagine Shiki not being the way he is now? 

Tsubasa: Ah, -laughs awkwardly- that’s kind of…

Dai: I can’t imagine that at all.

Rikka: Right? … He was the same back then. Though, I feel like I was the only one trying to get along with him...

If you like my work and you want to support me, you can now buy me a coffee by clicking right [here]. I also started taking commissions, more details are right [here]. Thank you~

[lovemesomesurveys]

[found at: softlondonsound]

Are you the type who is completely against abortion? Why? I avoid getting into topics like this, but no I’m not completely against it.

Have you ever read a book that actually changed your outlook on life? I haven’t had that profound of an effect, no. I’ve read a lot of amazing books that I’ve really enjoyed and I get invested in them and the characters, but I don’t know, I haven’t felt changed by any of them.

How do you feel about teenage girls that are on birth control? It helps with bad menstrual cycles and pain as well, so that could be one reason they’re taking it. But anyway, if they’re going to be sexually active then of course it’s best they’re taking precautions and being safe. I personally don’t think teenagers should be having babies, so. I’m not like encouraging teenagers to have sex, but I know some will and if they do, I hope they’re informed and being safe.

Do you judge people, and then lie about it? I mean, I feel like we all judge people to some certain small degree, but I wouldn’t necessarily say that I’m “judgmental”, if that makes any sort of sense. And I always make sure never to judge anyone based on a first impression, only because I know that my own personally suck. Lol. <<< I get what you mean, I would say the same thing. 

Describe your life positively in two words: My family.

What does your favorite song remind you of? I have a lot of favorites, though.

Does the thought of growing up scare you? I’m 31 and it still scares me.

Do you brag about being different than everyone else? No. I don’t brag about anything.

Where exactly are you from? Are you proud of that? I’m from the US. 

Is there a talent that you wish you were good at? I wish I had a talent.

Are you honestly so depressed that you've considered suicide? It’s been something I’ve thought about, but never seriously planned out. I could never.  Do you think that is a problem with teenagers in this country? I’m thinking of like all the YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok teenagers who blow up for whatever reason and it really just seems to get their heads and a lot come off entitled and snobby and like they’re untouchable. It’s also sad to me because I feel like they’re trying to grow up way too fast. 

How do you feel about unloyalty in relationships? Uh, it’s bad?

Have you ever had a day that you wanted to repeat over and over? No, eventually it would get boring and wouldn’t be considered special anymore. <<< Yeah. I’d like to experience some things again, sure, but not over and over.

What is your biggest accomplishment? Bleh.

If you could have anything right now, what would it be? I want ramen, which I’m about to make.

Are you planning to hook up with anyone this summer? No.

Do you love the little things in life? Yes. I need to stop and realize and appreciate them more.

If you have a significant other, could you live happily without them? I’m single.

Are pirates really better than ninjas? I don’t know.

What type of career do you see yourself in, in the future? I have no idea. 

If that doesn't work out, what would be your second choice?

Does your favorite flower hold any meaning to you? I don’t have a favorite flower.

Don't you just hate when people copy other people's ideas? Maybe they don’t all do it intentionally, though. You could try turning the situation around and view it as a compliment, as long as it doesn’t get too annoying. <<< True. 

What does your ipod/mp3 player consist of? I don’t have one, I just use Spotify on my phone. My main playlist consists of a large variety of genres and artist/bands from different decades.

Do you have any odd songs on there? None I consider odd.

If someone had told you, you would be who you are today, five years ago, would you believe them? Yikes. That would have scared and depressed me, but maybe it would lit a fire under my ass and I would have done some thing to try and prevent some of what I’ve been dealing with.

What is something that not many people understand about you? Why I completely distanced myself and became withdrawn these past few years from everyone and just holed up at home.

What do you think about William Shakespeare's work? Some of his works were required reading in high school, so I read it for that reason but it wouldn’t have been something I would have picked on my own and read for my own pleasure.

Do you like things that most people think are weird? Some things, probably. Like ASMR. I don’t care, though.

Do you look up to anyone in particular? My mom.

Are you obsessed with anything you would consider odd? Hmm. No, not that I can think of.

Explain your opinion on drugs. Do you ever do them? No, I don’t.

Have you ever uploaded a video on YouTube? I actually have, several years ago. A few of them. :O They’ve all been put on private and will never see the light of day again, though. lol.

Myspace. Explain your About me and meaning being your profile song. Myspace died over a decade ago, I don’t remember what my about me said or what my profile song was.

Do people often doubt your intelligence? I think some might think I’m smart when actually I’m really not.

What would you do if your favorite animal became endangered? I would be even more upset if giraffes became extinct. <<< Omggg. D:

What are your plans for tonight? My usual nighttime routine: eat ramen, watch YouTube while I eat, listen to ASMR, and do surveys. 

What's your name, anyways? Stephanie.

Do you smile because you have to, or is it just a natural instinct? Uhhh depends on the situation?

What is something physical that you don't like about yourself? Everything? 

Would you honestly ever wish for world peace? Yes?

How do you feel about John Lennon? I don’t have much to say. Has anyone ever complimented you on how sweet you can be? Yeah. People usually described me as nice/sweet. I don’t think people would say that now.

Who was the last person you were rude to? Did you have a good reason? I sometimes can be snippy and short when I’m in my extra moody, irritable moods. That’s absolutely not a good reason. My family doesn’t deserve that at all.

[rwbyremnants]

So uhhh one of my reviewers was right; I had posted chapter 23 as chapter 22. I told you guys my brain was smooshed and I needed a break! This is the same chapter 23, but chapter 22 is correct now if you guys want to go back and read it (for the first time). I'll also be editing chapter 24 to post today or tomorrow. Hope everybody's having a good Fall <3 

Also I just made us a Carrd if anybody wanted to apply to be a beta or submit fanart, or donate or whatever!

=Chapter 23

Raven had thrown a small fit when she saw what had become of her daughter’s room. The other four’s insistence that they would clean it all up themselves mollified her, and she got out of their way to let them handle it. Yang went straight for the shower once Weiss promised to bring her some clean clothes, so the other three got to work.

“I really do feel like a blockhead, though,” Ruby said, obviously in higher spirits due to Yang’s begrudging acceptance of her. “I was even thinking to myself, ‘Don’t drop it, don’t say anything dumb,’ and all I did was say dumb things and… well, y’know.”

“What a klutz,” Weiss sighed, though she was smiling as she reached over and mussed up Ruby’s hair. The girl stuck out her tongue through her grin.

“Don’t underestimate the value of a moment like that,” Kali reminded them as she searched for some dishrags in the kitchen drawers. Raven had vanished into the rest of the house so she would be of little help. When they only looked confused, she explained, “You broke the ice. Now Yang can see past what you represent - losing her father, all that old pain - to who you are as a person.”

The grin grew wider. “Really? Me being so square did all that?”

“Yes, sweetheart. All that.”

She was still grinning when Raven returned with a long-sleeved blouse and a dress that was a bit old-fashioned, tossing them onto the back of a chair. “There.”

She had already taken a step toward the hallway again when Weiss asked, “There, what?”

“There,” she answered through gritted teeth, “clothes for the runt to change into.” When they only stared at her, she rolled her eyes in annoyance and disgust. “She got malted on her, too, didn’t she? It’s going to stink. Milk stinks as it goes bad. Are you this slow on purpose?”

“Thank you, Raven,” Kali said very firmly to cut off any rebuttals from Weiss. “We’ll finish up the cleaning while Yang showers.”

Once they were alone again, Weiss whispered, “I think I see what you mean. She keeps doing nice things while acting really mean - like the soup. It’s strange.”

“She’s always been like that, to a lesser degree. Just got worse after Tai left her. Oh-” Smiling a bit wider, she held up a stack of washcloths. “Perfect.”

By the time the bedclothes were changed, Weiss had built up enough confidence to not only bring Yang her clothes, but wait for her to get out of the shower. When the Dragon pushed the curtain aside and saw she was no longer alone, she blinked a few times, then allowed a smug little grin to flit across her lips.

“Soooo.” Reaching out a hand for a towel, expression aloof as if she were royalty, she waited for Weiss to hand it to her before she continued, “Wanted to get a good look at the ol’ chassis, huh? You’ve already seen it’s in tip-top condition.”

Blush already starting, Weiss forced herself to remain calm. When Yang took a step out onto the bathmat, she stood her ground instead of stepping back - so that they were nose-to-nose. Yang blinked at the suddenness of the proximity.

“I wanted to see all of you - without pressure from a gaggle of mean Dragons this time. So thank you for the, um… demonstration.”

Yang bit her bottom lip for a moment, then looked down at her own body and back up. “So, all bragging aside… I know I look pretty good. But you don’t have to prove you’re interested in women if you don’t want to. I’m fine with just taking things slow.”

“You don’t live slow, Yang. I know that.” Her hand drifted up to pet along her hip and waist. “I’m trying to get more comfortable around you like this. It’s… well, I’m still a lot more nervous about it than you are, but it’s better. I’m better.”

“Good. I like it when you’re better. I like seeing that you’re not scared to death my body’s gonna gobble you up.” Her voice dipped a little lower. “Unless you want it to.”

Shivering from those words that sounded like a promise, she whispered, “Maybe I do. Maybe… it’s my turn.”

“Your turn?” Yang’s eyebrows went up, and she grinned. “Ohhhhh, okay. Then maybe you should get rid of my stupid sister and Mrs. B and we can really- OW!”

“You deserved that!” Weiss hissed, letting go of the skin covering Yang’s ribs. “And there’s another pinch in it for you if you insult Ruby again!”

“What did I say?”

“That girl wants to be your actual sister! Not just someone who’s related to you through your father, but… honestly, do you have to call her ‘stupid’?”

Frowning and still rubbing the pinched skin, she turned away as she finally began to dry off. “I didn’t really mean it. Just being… I don’t know. But she’s not my sister. I barely saw her growing up because of how Dad handled things. How Raven and Summer did after he left. They could have kept us together, or at least let us play together, but we barely ever did. And then she dies, and I thought maybe Ruby would move in with us, but… nope. Uncle Qrow gets her, and they hate each other as much as our moms. Worse.”

The silence deepened as she watched Yang angrily scrubbing the water off her skin. It was a little painful just to be watching, so she couldn’t imagine how much worse it was to experience.

“Can’t you see Ruby loves you?”

“Stop, okay? This isn’t your business.”

“No, Yang. It is now. Because you’re my…” She only had to gulp once to get it out. “M-my girlfriend. If I were a boy, we’d be engaged, or pinned or something. And then Ruby would be my future family.”

“Weiss-”

“So it’s important to me that you two get along!”

“Weiss, drop it. I’ll…” When she glanced at her and saw the deadly serious expression on her face, Yang’s softened. “Alright, alright. She did come all the way over here just to bring me a dumb malted, didn’t she?”

“Not just for that. She wanted to see if you were alright. And I stuck my neck out and said you would want to see her, even though you’ve been treating her like a… a wad of used chewing gum!”

Such a comparison made Yang snort in amusement. “Really? As bad as all that?”

“YES!”

“Really?” she asked again, the smile disappearing. “I didn’t… come on, I never hurt her or anything. I may not hang out with her, but that’s because I’m a Dragon. I have my own friends, and she has hers. Didn’t think she would want to keep playing hopscotch with me after so long, anyway. Besides, like I said, Raven and Qrow don’t get along, so it’s just… easier to leave each other alone, right?”

Impatient, Weiss walked over to her and pressed a hand into the small of her back through the towel. “You’re her half-sister. I’d give anything to have Winter here while I was going through all this with my parents! A sister is a friend for life.”

“Friend for life, huh?” Glancing at Weiss and seeing she was serious, she sighed as she patted her hair dry, then turned to cup her cheek. Her heart fluttered, despite the gravity of their conversation. “Alright, enough already. It’s… I’ll give it a try. No promises, but I’ll try.”

“Thank you,” she told her earnestly, gripping the back of the hand to keep it close.

“You like her, don’t you? My sis.”

“She’s sweet. And… well, I feel a little guilty for only talking to her when I’m worried about you, or talking about you. So I made a promise to myself and to her that I’d be… nicer.”

Yang was quiet as she thought about that for a moment. Then she propped a leg up on the sink as she began to dry it off. “That’s pretty cool of you, though I don’t think I’d like it if it were me. Being a charity case.”

“Not for charity! I really do like her! I mean it!”

“Why? What’s so great about her?” When Weiss frowned, she winced. “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded. Really, tell me about my sister.”

“No.”

“Huh?”

“No, I’m not going to do your work for you. Go out there and learn about her first-hand.” Then she took the towel and began to dry off the leg for her, still speaking in a brisk, businesslike manner. “Just forget she’s Summer’s girl, or about divorces or anything like that, and get to know who Ruby is. Okay?”

After the first few seconds, Yang began relaxing into the motions as she listened. The towel passing up and over her rear got her to chuckle, “Okay. I mean, you’re probably right. Besides, I can’t say ‘no’ to you.”

“Good. Now, I want you to stand on your head and pat your belly.”

“Actually, turns out I can say ‘no’. And I’m sayin’ it now.”

“Oh? But if you stood on your head… I could probably reach something fun very easily.”

One eyebrow raised, Yang turned her head more fully to gaze into Weiss’s eyes. “While I’ve been laid up, you got even bolder. What have you and Kali been up to?”

“Hey! I don’t appreciate you saying things like that!” Though they were both laughing. Weiss rubbed at her hindquarters a little more firmly. “I have been pretty lonely with you laid up.”

“Me, too. Hanging around in my room is driving me stir crazy.”

“Well, it’s only a few more days. But you still have to take it easy for another month, okay? Promise?”

Pouting, Yang turned and lowered her leg again so she could slide her hands around Weiss’s trim waist. She moved her arm pretty confidently, despite the injury; marked progress. “But I want to lift you up onto the sink and drink you down. Right now.”

“O-oh…” Her pulse skyrocketed, but she forced herself to clear her throat and take a step back. “But you won’t. And you won’t put me on your motorcycle, and you won’t punch anyone out. Nothing like that until your shoulder is better.”

“Okay, okay, Mom.”

“And don’t do that! It sounds creepy!”

As they were laughing, there came a harsh knock at the door. “HEY! I said to cut that out in my home, you two!”

“Cut what out, Mom?!” Yang half-shouted, still grinning.

“Don’t sass me or I’ll come in there and deck you one! And I don’t care what I’m interrupting!”

“Mrs. Branwen?” Weiss began. “I was just helping Yang dry off and keeping her company. That’s all, I promise.”

The reasonable response seemed to fluster the woman more than an outraged or angry one might have done. So they heard nothing else but receding footsteps.

“Wow, I can’t believe that worked.”

“Neither can I,” Yang whispered, smiling at her. When Weiss began to rub at her stomach, she said, “Um, a little lower, please.”

Weiss only narrowed her eyes instead of capitulating.

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

When they returned to her bedroom, they found that Kali and Ruby had done a fantastic job of cleaning up. Yang surprised them all by immediately striding up to Ruby, who was now wearing Raven’s old clothes and looking awkward about having been standing by her window.

“So,” she said with a somewhat-false cheer. “What made you want to drop by today, Rubes?”

“Um… Weiss? She said Mrs. Belladonna could help me get past Raven, so I thought… I mean, hey, why not give it a try? And if you threw me out, I would get over it.”

Shrugging as if it was no big deal, she said, “Well, the malted’s gone, so I guess now we just talk.”

“Right! Talking is good!”

Everything fell silent. As Kali nudged Weiss, both sisters said “Sooo…” in such a similar way that they had to laugh at themselves. Then she noticed Kali was trying to get her to help gather up the dirty bedclothes and take them out, so she obeyed, trying not to be conspicuous.

“I think it’s going to go a lot better from this point forward,” Kali whispered.

“Really? I didn’t make the world’s biggest mistake in bringing Ruby here?” They shared a brief smile as they edged into a small laundry room off the kitchen. “That’s good. I had a feeling all they needed was to talk for more than a few sec-”

They both froze when they saw Raven working on the laundry, box of detergent clutched in her hands as she glared. After a moment or two, she sighed and finished what she was doing, then tried to push past them.

“Wait,” Kali attempted.

“No. This doesn’t change anything. I still don’t want you back in my life, and I don’t want to be ‘best pals’ with the girl dating my daughter. Or with Summer’s little runt. Everybody just leave me alone.”

The problem was, Kali and Weiss were blocking her escape. She could have slipped out the back door and into the yard, but that would have been a truly desperate way to dodge an uncomfortable conversation, and Raven seemed to think she was at least above that.

“Do you know why we’re where we are right now?”

“It’s my house,” she fired back immediately. “Why you’re here is because you can’t help meddling.”

“We’re here because you can’t accept anyone else’s help, or anyone else’s viewpoint. It’s all-Raven, all the time. I loved you both, but Ghira treated me more like I deserved to be treated. Still deserve that.”

“Shut up.” The voice was dangerous, and Weiss felt dread welling up in her at the sight of the fists curling at the woman’s sides. Kali was pushing and it didn’t seem like a wise decision.

“Why? Afraid of the truth?”

“You don’t understand. I’m… none of this matters anymore. Get the hell out of my way before I make you.”

The woman’s elegant Italian features were completely unimpressed. “No. This has been a long time in coming. Your behaviour is so poor that it’s affecting everyone around you. I wouldn’t bother telling you if I didn’t think you could change it. You can. And you’re an adult now, so I think you should.”

“Really?” she laughed harshly, folding her arms over her chest. “You think I’m still in love with you, and if I ‘be a good girl’, you’ll take me back? Is that your plan? Don’t flatter yourself.”

“Of course not. I’m sure you despise me more than you could ever despise anyone else. Even Summer.”

“Then what is the point of this conversation?”

“That you should stop taking out your frustrations on Yang. She’s not her father.”

Stunned by that turn, Raven took a step backward, features slack and completely incensed. “I’m not… what? Don’t you dare. Don’t you DARE accuse me of such a disgusting- who do you think you are?!”

“Someone you used to trust,” Kali sighed, not lowering her gaze but looking as if the fight were finally bleeding out to be replaced by sadness. “I don’t care if you do anymore. Well, that’s a lie; I do care, but I can’t bring myself to be upset about things I cannot change. You’ve made your choices and your judgments, and I’m just old news to you now. But Yang and Ruby, and Weiss here… they need adults in their lives who will treat them with kindness and warmth, and try to guide them without damaging them any more than necessary.”

“Get off your high horse, Belladonna. As if you never did anything that made Blake hate you. Never hurt her without meaning to.”

“I have. Many times. But I’ve never sent her to school limping from injuring her myself.”

Finally, Raven lost her cool - she flew at Kali with both fists raised, aiming to harm. To shut the woman’s mouth so no more accusations could flow forth. The attack was easily dodged, and it was Kali who had Raven pinned against the wall this time, arms gripped so that they squirmed in the small of her back. Completely incapacitated.

“You ever strike Yang again,” she growled menacingly, “and I’ll make sure you can’t anymore. Are we clear?”

“Get off me! She’s my girl! She has to know how hard the world is - has to be… be shown- OW! I can’t let her get soft!” It was probably a combination of the physical and emotional pain, but her eyes began to leak as she struggled to get away fruitlessly. “This world will chew her up and spit her out if I don’t toughen her up! And nobody else will do that for her! The Dragons? HAH! Salem just wants lackeys to do her bidding - not real strength! Why do you think I got out with Tai?! But Yang thinks they’re her ‘family’! I want her to be strong, so she can lead them her own way someday! And wiping her little ass for her like you do ain’t gonna help! So you can take your Sunday School lesson and sit on it!”

The words shocked Weiss a lot more than they did Kali. Maybe she had heard them before, or heard similar from someone else. But the Schnee heiress had never considered for a moment that Raven had struck Yang to help her! Twisted as her logic was, it definitely made a lot more sense than simply not caring about her own daughter. But Kali didn’t take more than a few seconds to respond.

“I know you love her. Even through this terrible attitude, I can see it. But you’re wrong. Beating Yang whenever she gets out of line won’t make her strong; it just makes her hate you, and makes it hard for her to trust anyone else, or respect authority that doesn’t beat her.”

“I don’t care if she hates me. If it works, that’s all that matters. Nobody’s ever gonna take advantage of my Yang. Ever.”

“Raven…” Sighing, she let her go, standing back from the woman. “Fine, be stubborn as always. But my promise remains in place. I can’t stand seeing any more children abused. I won’t stand for it. Don’t make me hurt someone I used to love to stop her from hurting people I currently love. Please.”

For a brief instant, it looked as if Raven was going to argue. But she only looked between Kali’s grim determination, and the bandage on Weiss’s cheek, still mulling the words over for a long time.

“You never loved me,” she finally whispered bitterly.

“I did.”

“You never said it.”

Swallowing hard, she turned away to gaze at the washing machine. “I know. I was afraid that if I did… you would think you had something worth fighting for, and you and Ghira might have torn each other apart. It was the only thing that would have been worse than how things wound up.”

“You’ve never given me a second thought in all those years apart. Admit it.”

“Are you kidding? I’ve thought about you every day. But that changes nothing.”

The room stayed quiet for a few seconds. Suddenly, Weiss couldn’t take it anymore, and she whispered, “Mrs. Branwen?”

“What do you want?” she sneered, annoyed at her thoughts being interrupted.

“I love Yang. And you do, too - and so does Ruby, and Kali, and Blake. Maybe it’s hard for you to see that because… you don’t know us very well.”

“I know Kali too well.”

“But couldn’t you just… give us a chance? Let us disappoint you before you assume we will?”

Raven shook her head, even though the fight had gone out of her. “I can’t. No more chances left. Over and over, I got dumped, and betrayed, and… and I made a vow no one would ever do that to me or my daughter again. Sticking to it.” She took a step toward the door before pausing. “I already said I wouldn’t stop you from coming over to see her anymore. Don’t make me regret that decision.”

“What about Ruby? Can she…” Her throat tightened, but she forced herself to finish. “Can she feel safe coming over by herself?”

“What?”

Exasperated, Weiss squeaked, “You tried to stab her!”

“I protected myself,” she snapped, though without any true bite. “Always find out what people want before you let them in. Good policy. But…” Groaning, she rolled her eyes. “Fine. I know the runt doesn’t pose any threat, so I won’t do that to her again.”

“You’d better not,” Kali put in warningly. Raven only nodded before taking her leave.

“Wow,” Weiss breathed as they slowly came back to life. They had to collect the sheets from the floor, since they had been dropped at some point that she couldn’t even recall. “That was…”

With a long sigh, Kali helped her stuff them into the washing machine with the other clothes. “I know.”

“She does love Yang. I thought she didn’t, since she was acting like my father, I… and I don’t understand how any parent can love their child and still hurt them.”

Choosing her words carefully, the older woman said, “I can understand it. I just can’t abide it. Every child has a right to feel safe and secure when they’re with their own parents, and… and if Yang can’t feel that way with Raven…” Swallowing hard, she slammed the lid shut. “I’ll take her in. I don’t care if it’s going to be difficult, or if she fights me on this. She may not be blood but she’s family.”

“You’d do that?” she breathed in surprise.

“Raven gets one last chance. I think that if she has us around to show her she’s doing things wrong, maybe she’ll change. I certainly hope so. Because if the Raven I used to know is still there, buried under all her bitterness and self-pity…”

But she cut herself off. The thoughts seemed too painful for her to keep focusing on them, and Weiss had no desire to make her endure further pain. Her hand pressed into Kali’s back as they left the clothes to be washed, and Kali spared her a weak smile that faded very quickly. It was nearly as sad as if she had never smiled at all.

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

The rest of their visit was much more amiable. Ruby and Yang seemed to be getting along a little better now; Yang would still say some things that came across as harsh or abrasive, but she had begun to notice that on her own and apologise. Kali hung back and said very little, sipping at the mug of green tea she had prepared for herself. Weiss tried to follow her example, only speaking when spoken to.

Raven didn’t reappear. When Weiss took Kali’s teacup to the kitchen, she could see her outside hanging up the washing to dry through the little window in the backdoor, but otherwise they didn’t encounter her again. It was another instance of seeing that Raven did care. She just often showed it in such a terrible way that it was dangerous.

When dinnertime began to approach, Raven did stop by to shoo them away. Kali smirked while she offered to whip them up something and stay even longer, knowing full well she would be turned down; Raven didn’t disappoint, threatening to grab a broom and literally sweep them out the front door if they dallied.

As a last-minute decision, Kali took them by the grocery store and picked up some ingredients, then drove over to the Schnee estate. Weiss’s mother was glad to see them, though initially confused about who Ruby was. Pyrrha dropped by while they were still preparing dinner, having seen the foreign car in their drive, and stayed to help both make and eat the pasta and garlic bread they had prepared. She also had a bottle of grape juice, which made a sad little laugh come from Willow as she poured them all glasses.

It was a lovely time. Weiss watched the two parents closely for any signs that they were drifting yet closer, but saw no such moment come to pass; maybe she really was imagining things. After all, her mother wasn’t that sort of person! Then again, she didn’t think she was herself, either, and now she was dating Yang.

Whitley was oddly silent all the while. Sometimes, he would look at the two family members at the table with resentment, and other times he simply seemed sad. Never said a word to the guests. Eventually, he asked to be excused and went straight to his room and never re-emerged.

That night, once all the guests had gone home, Weiss caught her mother in her father’s study, running one hand over each item with tenderness, a handkerchief pushed into her lips and nose. It was too bleak a sight for her to ignore.

“Mother?”

“Oh,” she blasted out, so startled she knocked a crystal paperweight from the desk. It broke in two. “AH! Oh dear, that wasn’t- Jacques loved that thing…”

Stooping to pick up the pieces for her, she set them on the desk before turning to look at her. “Um… dinner was nice. With Mrs. Belladonna here, and… Ruby and Pyrrha. Wasn’t it?”

Haunted as her eyes were, her mother did smile. “It was. I owe Kali a debt of gratitude; she’s been so kind and considerate. A real gem.”

“Should I expect that she’ll be welcome around here more often?” Weiss asked with a hopeful smile. “And maybe we could drop by the Belladonna home now and then?”

“Of course! Oh, I wouldn’t dream of refusing an invitation.” Sighing, she gazed down at the broken paperweight, fingers brushing over the facets. “It’s funny… I really thought I would be more devastated than I am by Jacques being taken away. But instead, I feel… I don’t know.”

“Free?”

“That’s not what… well…” Her eyes widened very slightly in mingling alarm and recognition. “That’s it. Weiss, you found exactly- I feel free. But that isn’t right, is it? He’s my husband.”

“He hurt you. And he hurt me. Kali’s been teaching me about this; she says it’s not alright for a family member to hurt another like that. And… well, I think I agree.” She felt terrified, since these things applied to her father and to Willow’s husband, but she forced herself to continue. “Maybe we can forgive them, and try to do better. Or maybe we can’t. But we can’t just let them keep hurting us. It’s not fair, and it’s unacceptable.”

The woman’s other hand came up and caressed Weiss’s cheek, then gripped her chin to gently lift her face and get a better look at her eyes. She could see her mother’s were haunted but clearer than they had been in years, and at least she was smiling.

“How did my little girl get to be so wise?”

“I’m not so little anymore, Mother.”

“And when did she stop calling me ‘Mommy’?” They both laughed. “Oh… I love you, my angel. My sweet, brave little angel.”

The embrace was enough to erase almost all of the hurt from the previous weeks. Though it had happened in such an unexpected way, she would have traded a dozen of her father just to have her mother back in her life again. Luckily, she didn’t have to.

[swagging-back-to]

doing this so i can distract myself dont judge me im spiraling downwards

just look at my muse list but i always love a good genocidal eren jaeger

lighter, one of those electronic ones or reusable ones.

why does this feel like a threat? but yeah from april-november my window is open. until it hits 45° without a fan.

skinwalkers & wendigos. living in the Appalachians doesnt come without *quirks*

i legit dont know. dark blue around the edges, golden at the center, green and gray in the middle.

im tired

scrunchies, for so many reasons.

oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit--- (actually not that many only three)

cold coffee, including mulled teas (chai)

s l a u g h t e r

idk what this means but hikes are nice

it's a nice day weather wise but emotionally 🙃

i had a bean taco last night

oh you wouldnt believe

i used to be a pet parent but they dont like me at all so now im a snail parent.

if im not dissociating, which is never. im not bragging, it is a serious problem.

a bit of both. sometimes im completely farsighted and other times im nearsighted, and then other times i have 20/20. my optometrist hates me

vegan ones. i want to start using shampoo and conditioner bars after i finish up this planet & beauty bottle.

i guess

lmfao soda. some of the people in maine say "sodar"

i have a dozen or so stuffies. a lamb i got at a yard sale as a toddler, a patchwork cat i got as a toddler, etc.

in what regards? this is a very open ended question my guy. im ~quirky~ ig

i like it because i can go on runs and not be hot in just a tshirt and skipants, and i can wear multiple sweaters.

making out probably. or id be screaming and getting attacked by a dozen wasps

fragrance because im moist af

oc scenes that would take too long to explain, and trauma:))

like 4 hours last night

no, unless the area seems suspicious.

melt you skin off hot

ayo

indie punk

no but i have towels i only use for nasty things

~adventure~ idk what qualifies as an ~adventure~

eveey single song ive ever heard in my entire life. it is exhausting.

est

uhhh probably 5>

i know of her and used to be "friends" but we aint actually friends so i have no one.

uh idk anything with vanilla or lavender

no, too much effort and in the winter that's a recipe for hair stuck to your face.

no.

i dont really have coffee. i have matcha lattes or chai lattes

audiomack for music, homer for floor planning, youtube for youtube.

i dont know why people would want to hurt themselves to the point of not even ebing able to taste the food and/or being in actual pain from a raw tongue. however, i do appreciate a little zing.

:)

uh.... i think i wrote notes down but no i cant remember anything

i dont celebrate holidays

telling my therapist my phone was acting up so i have to call her back

first sip ever was probably 6 years old and i spit that beer right back out and vowed to never do that again. first actual drink was probably 11yo or so.

maybe one skip

yeah sure

here’s weirder asks

who is/are your comfort character(s)?

lighter or matches?

do you leave the window open at night?

which cryptyd being do you believe in?

what color are your eyes?

why did you do that?

hair-ties or scrunchies?

how many water bottles are in your room right now?

which do you prefer, hot coffee or cold coffee?

would you slaughter the rich?

favorite extracurricular activity?

what kind of day is it?

when was the last time you ate?

do you love the smell of earth after it rains?

are you a parent? (all answers qualify)

can you drive?

are you farsighted or nearsighted?

what hair products do you use?

imagine we’re at a sleepover, would you paint my nails?

do you say soda or pop?

something you’ve kept since childhood?

what type of person are you?

how do you feel about chilly weather?

if we were together on a rooftop, what would we be doing?

perfume/body spray or lotion?

a scenario that you’ve replayed multiple times?

about how many hours of sleep did you get?

do you wear a mask?

how do you like your shower water?

is there dishes in your room?

what type of music keeps you grounded?

do you have a favorite towel?

the last adventure you’ve been on?

is there a song you know every word to by heart?

what’s your timezone?

how many times have you changed your url?

someone in your life, other than a relative, you’ve known for 10+ years?

a soap bar that smells good?

do you use lip balm?

did you have any snacks today?

how do you take your coffee?

an app you frequently use besides this godforsaken site?

what’s your take on spicy foods?

you get a free pass to kill anyone, who is it?

can you remember what happened yesterday?

favorite holiday film?

what was the last message you sent?

when did you first try an alcohol beverage?

can you skip rocks?

can i tag you in random stuff?

[quackspot]

ok ok ok o k so its like 4:33 am y’know so that means i talk about fire spirit because thats normal and i totally didnt mean to sleep around 3 o-o 

but liek uh h h lemme think a bit ok so

from the start before he was a spirit (its in my beliefs that he traded his past life for that sexy little bead) he wanted to be STRONG and powerful so fire spirit skidaddled over to the red dragon and BOOM it woketh or maybe he was already a fiery cookie and he burnded the red dragons nose hairs who knows! maybe he just likes to visit every few years and thats why he was expecting a bigger welcome back party 

so like hes growing weaker right? yeah hes kinda alternating between “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA I NEED POWER” and “AAAAAAAAAAAAA I HAVE POWER AHAHAHAHA” and he doesnt like that he’d much rather just be him or more powerful because fuckin YEHA POWER 

so this story ends two ways. fire spirit trying to get his powers back and failing (dustyass lord of ass who looks pretty nice frankly i like the colors a lot to be honest but thats just becuase devsis is making me emosexual. it started with crescent moonlight then fire spirit idk about night raven for sure but oh well)

OR 

dark enchantress. hes like “hurr dburr doesnt corruption make you stronger in a way” and ends up getting “corrupted” but instead since hes already so chaotic neutral he only gets stronger (i stole this from another post i probably reblogged) like the person i rb’d mentioned the horn thing that tommy who is big love de mentioned to because tommy loves dark enchantress and thats about all i know about tommy they also love wasabi and its understandable

im not gonna rant and talk about my internet life so ANYWYAS

fire spirit keeps the same runes yeah? so . yeehaw? idk what to make of that i just thought it was interesting how theyre basically all the same. 

frankly dustyass edgelord is my favorite of the two costumes and im glad i had 15,280 guild coins saved up but now im too broke for the jelly set o-o 

do we even get any fire spirit lore or are we watching him almost die in the event 

oh well i guess BUT fire spirit is really prtty in all his forms the least favorite of mine is god of flame but i still love it of course but really could be better. like. yeah thats a lot of fire and i cant handle the heat and its pretty but its bright and im kinda edgy o-o 

so that explains my preference plus im broke on the internet money i have 20 dollars irl might ask my grandma if she can help me buy fire spirit costume 

almost crying every time i see edgy ass his wings have a little capelike thing and its kinda holey and its beautiful and edgy i should edit him with vampire and he also looks sorta confident

so like hes kinda serious in lord of ash BUT hes also still somewhat him y’know? yeah you do

oh my god i just ghouth of big funny

so picture youre dark enchantress, right? off to go corrupt another legendary! BUT 

you cast ur diddly dark magic and....

FIRE SPIRIT LOOKS MORE PURIFIED THAN ANYTHIGN... chaotic good lord of flames  . 

fire spirit is pretty much chaotic neutral all around besides in lord of flames nothing can stop him o-o fdkljsuadiSKJIOFKLSKL JKLFS JKLFJKL SJKLFFJKLSKJL 

OK SO I HAVE COOKIE RUN OPEN RIGHT I KNOW THIS ISN T THE RIGHT TIME BUT HE LEGIT WAS LIKE “finders, keepers! ahaha!”  I LOVE HIM 

god im excited for tomorrow im getting a haircut and i MIGHT ask for the costume if i feel confident enough though i could get rejected.. . .. . 

dont fool around just chill out you might get REJECTED. .. . . .. . . 

OK BACK TO HTE FOCUS HOW THIS TIES IN WITH FIRE SPIRITS OVERALL STORY SO 

ok bear with me 

fire spirit wants to be powerful, of course. from the start. as not fire spirit yet maybe sweet potato but who knows besides himself and maybe devsis idk, he becomes fire spirit! trading off whatever the bored dragon wanted so fire could get stronger. 

also proof of fire spirit being a powerlover is very much in his relationships . knight and wind ! sea fairy’s is about his hair which is “fire” magic i suppose what kind of hair conditioner does he use

ANYWAYS

over time his flames are starting to go wild becuase of all this CORRUPTION in the cookie kingdom and around and its making his magic funky becuase thats just a random thought i just had like what if corruption messed with magic? imagine that. so hes alternating between too weak and too strong and he doesnt understand so he heads to dragons valley all like “heyo whats the answer” but nobodys there

i havent finished the event but hes basically just looting every dragon he’s ever known like what they left behind? his now 

maybe the dragons will come back home.... .. . . pl eas....... i miss them

anywhoodle 

the thing about two possible ends of fire spirit 

the first end is dark enchantress finding him then boom ur corruption only makes him chaotic good instead of chaotic evil 

(chaotic tends to not follow or give regards to law. chaotic good breaks the law for people, neutrals just do whatever they want for themselves, and chaotic evil goes out of their way to hurt others)

so like 

dark enchantress doesnt know how to take this, right? her magic failed her for once. fire spirit is going batshit crazy becuase hes like “WOAHAHAHAHAH HAHHAHH H H HH H H IM STILL SUPER STRONG :OOOO” and then he goes even MORE batshit crazy and maybe burns down a town or something becuase hes going wild from the power but then he calms down 

he’d probably be willing to do things for dark enchantress if it were a deal or something but lord of flames might not go all the way out to kill tree like what the fuck

ALSO

LORD OF ASHES is probably NOT AS WARM AS FIRE SPIRIT who is already somewhat huggable if ur not fuckin uhh water or ice or if u dont like being a little warm ANYWAYS LORD OF ASHES is HUGGABLE becuase being weak makes him cool down and so you can hug the edgelord (which i would totally do if he were real and not a cookie) 

i like to repeat myself a lot but its almost 5 am anywaysy uhhh im going to talk about his personality 

so hes like really energetic of course and very chaotic neutral he just do what he wana do hes like “finders keepers!” and he probably enjoys showing off his power to other cookies. praise makes him more happy than others and he has a very high ego that can only be doused by less power. the more powerful he is, the more egotistical he is. lord of flames is a fucking pain to be around if you dont wanna listen to him brag about accomplishments and thats the only reason he doesnt work for de 

lord of ashes is a downer and kinda sad but he still has a little bit of fire spirit in him hes basically just “you gotta die sometime” but hes not gonna die becuasei  wont allow it hes only allowed to die in a completely comedic way like he tries to hug wind and hten actual wind blows and he gets thanos snapped by the air and wind is like “OH FUCK OH SHIT” and all that’s left as a relic is his gem and wind archer tries to fix it and fails though who knows maybe hes night raven because in hte game night raven came before lord of ashes so???!? !?!? !? ?!? 

night raven walks up to lord of ashes “bitch im going to fucking kill you” then blows lightly and fires just like “oh noooo aww shit here we goooooooooooo again” and hes just a gem now 

maybe fire spirit causes the next mass extinction as lord of flames because hes like “DSKLJFS KLJ*(UJIORWKSFOR IEKANHWOI JSKFN IJDLASKSF IM SO POWERFUL AHAHAH HUAJKAKL JKLA JAH HA HAHL HAH AH HAH HAH HHAH AH HAHAH A *JUMPS INTO A VOLCANO AND BLOWS THE FUCKING WORLD UP*” 

[mineokun]

Mineo Enomoto Character CD Mini-Drama Translation

T/N: This is a translation of the mini-drama that comes with Mineo’s character CD. Though a subbed fan video may come later, I haven’t uploaded the audio alongside this. If you buy the CD (Animate | CDJapan (Ltd Edition) | Play-Asia) or already have the track available, you can follow along while reading this! Thanks also to @jokertrap-ran for helping me proofread!

Translation key: Ichika’s thoughts: ellipses... | (Mineo’s thoughts) | [sound effects]

A Talk Between Two in the Steam

(Mineo Enomoto. 23 years old. Spring’s finally come for me too, and I’ve been spending happy days with my girlfriend. It’s truly a rose-colored life!)

(As for the love bible I stuck with, ‘100 Heart-Jerking Love Confessions’, I haven't opened it again. The reason why being… Now, by my own determination, I'm climbing up the stairway of adulthood! That's right. The stairway of adulthood that is traveling to the hot springs with my girlfriend...!)

Ngh… All right. The hostess left. God, I've been holding back since earlier. I…feel like I'm gonna explode...

...

Heh. So you noticed too, huh? It's just the two of us now… So… it's okay if I don't hold back anymore, right...?

Then… I'll say it.

--AT LONG LAST! SETTING FOOT UPON THE PLACE WHERE DATE MASAMUNE AND COMPANY ACHIEVED THEIR DREAMS - WE'VE ARRIIIIVED!!

Oh, man! I’ve wanted to try coming here for so long! I'm so glad I boldly launched the suggestion at you! It'd be boring going alone after all, y’know? I'm really grateful that you decided to come along with me.

...

Yeah, yeah! When Masamune and his company were here, his role in defending against and resisting outside invaders is what revived them…!

…

Huh? I'm as excited as a kid?

Hmph - well, I'm sorry. I'm a kid who admires Masamune so much I have an eyepatch for him after all. I mean, him being from the Sendai era would more than grab my attention…

But that's fine! I’m here with the same kindred spirit as him after all! Even without words, we'll be able to understand each other! This is - the MASAMUNE SPIRIT!

Whoops, I got kinda fired up there. Let's go bathe separately first!

(Hooo! The smell of cypress is real soothing…)

(A chance to be able to take a carefree bath like this rarely comes by… With the trip in general, I asked where she wished she could go, wanting to bring her there as a man should. But we ended up coming here ultimately.)

(But still, she came with me without pulling a single face.)

(Even though I didn't know what a mashed green soybean flavored shake would taste like, it was so cool when we both took no notice just drinking from our straws…! We tried to drink it at the same time and we ended up bumping our foreheads. But, when we looked up at each other, and started laughing after that…! Eheh! Eheheheheheh!)

(But, man, her eyelashes are so long... I couldn’t help but notice when she was looking at the shake… Ugh! What am I, Shiraishi now?!)

(...No. That’s not it. She's the only one I end up making observations of. That's just ‘cause I love her and I can't help but do that. In other words - I just feel like saying something…)

(Traveling with my girlfriend is THE BEEEEST...!!)

...Ah! Over here, over here! How was it? Did you enjoy the hot spr--! CU--!

(Gh! W-Wow… She looks amazing wearing a yukata…! It-can't-be-it-looks-too-good-on-her-more-than-that-it's-seriously-so…!)

E-Eh?! Oh, n-no no, it's nothing! More importantly, how were the hot springs? Were you able to relax in there?

…

Yeah, I feel you. The cypress floating in the bath gave it a classic Japanese feel, didn't it?

…

Ah. I saw the arcade corner too while I was waiting, but this also seems pretty promising. We might as well, so what game do you…?

…

Oh? The photo booth together?

Ohh, you wanna take some pictures? Well, we can write words onto them, so it’ll be something to commemorate our trip! Heheh. I have to brag about this to Takeru and Yanagi…!

…

Whooa…! So this is the famous… Ah, I’m not so good at handling complicated controls, so I’ll leave that to you!

Even though… I wonder what people who have it all would think in a situation like this… Ah, nothing, just talking to myself.

Oh, are we taking one now? What pose should we do?

…

Ehhh…? Clapping our hands together softly then making our faces small after? That seems cool. Let’s try that out!

[click!]

Wow! Look at those visual effects! Well, your face is small and cute to begin with, though--

Ow! What was that for?! It’s not something to hit me over!

…

Huh? Could it be you’re…being shy...?

! What’s with that…? If you suddenly make a face like that…even I’ll--

[click!]

Ah--?! I wasn’t looking at the camera…! Right, we’re still in the middle of taking pics, aren’t we? For a pose... Doing a generic peace sign should be a safe bet, right?

[click!]

The next one’s the last. Then we gotta go out with a bang. Plus we’ve come this far… Should we do a Date Masamune-like pose here?

…

Huh? ...You wanna take one with us holding hands…?

! What’s with that adorable request…?! Gah! If you’re okay with my hand, then do as you like!

…

O-Oh… I should sit closer, huh…

...You know. I’m...really happy right now.

[click!]

Next comes writing on them, yeah? There are two copies, so let's take one each and show what we wrote on them to each other afterwards! It’ll be more exciting that way!

First things first are the icon stamps, so...

Hehe. Damn… I’m having so much fun. I’m seriously so glad I got to travel with you! Coming to a place you like with the person you love is the best!

…

Huh? What’s up? ...We only have a bit of time left to doodle on them?

Ack, s-seriously?! This wasn’t the time to feel so moved inside! There’s still so much I wanna write…!

[stylus tapping]

No! Not yet! Don’t give up, Mineo! The first photo booth session for fulfilled-real-lifers I get in my life is the one thing I can’t let go to ruin…! I’ll pour all my feelings of love into this…!!

[frantic stylus tapping]

Th-That was close…! I barely managed to finish writing… Did you finish?

…

Hehh. That’s a real piece of work. Well, I’m only able to say that now. I fashioned a considerable tour de force in there myself.

Oh, they’ve come out. Let’s see, let’s see...

Ah--! You have an eyepatch too…! I see. You drew on one with a pen, huh? Lining it up like this… It's like a matching couple look…

…

Eh? That’s what you meant to…?

! N-Now, you! Just what’re you trying to do, making me so happy?!

…

Eh--? My pictures?

W-Wait, don’t yell so loud…! There wasn’t any time writing it, and I lost myself getting into it. When it suddenly stopped, I… ‘I love you most in the world’, is what I wanted I write…

...Eh? You’re happy?

Ha. I see. If that makes you happy too, then I’m glad.

Whenever we look at these, we’ll remember today. It’s...kinda weird! Us having a calm time like this...didn’t use to be a given, either. Back then, we went through pain, through sadness. Even now, there are people out there desperately doing their best. Everyone has hard times to overcome, and their daily lives to get on with now.

...Ah, my bad. I got a little solemn there! Wait, what time is it now…? They said there’d be dinner at 7, didn’t they?

All right! There’s ox tongue calling our name! Let’s hurry...!

Ahh, I’m absolutely stuffed! That ox tongue was so thick and tasty! My feet went on their own and got three helpings for dinner! Ah, it was tough…

[tea being poured]

Oh! Thanks!

[sip]

Going back to our room after a feast and having you pouring tea for me… Maaan, it’s just perfect!

…

Oh? What now? That’s true… We’ve done what there is to do outside the ryokan for the most part…

(...)

(!)

(...!!)

(Crap…! What do I do?! I don’t know what we should do now that it’s just us two in the room…!)

(Not to mention, looking right at her in the eye while she’s in her yukata makes my heart pound-- Ah, wait. It’s awkward to keep silent. Umm, uhhh…!)

(Ah! Why don't we sleep sooner! No! It's still 9 - that's way too early!)

(What else could we do… Nnrgh…! Do you wanna explore the ryokan! What am I, some primary school kid?!)

…

Eh?! You brought playing cards…?

Oh… OHOHO, nice! Why don't we play old maid or something!

…

(Phew! What a lifesaver…!)

(...No. Hold on. Could this be…she saw me struggling and threw me a bone when I needed it? Things like this happen every time…)

(She…must be thinking that…)

…Hey. ...I, uh… I'm probably just a kid in your eyes, aren't I…?

…

I mean, today… I wanted to escort you from the beginning, but at some point I just started having fun by myself. I wanted to…be classier doing this. Heh… Even though I think it’s shameful even by my own standards…

[table slam; rattling]

Whoa! Y-You scared me… Eh, w-was that something to get angry over…?

…

! It's okay if I'm not an adult…? But I'm the older one here. At some point if things keep going like this--

…

Eh! I-I get it - calm down…!

…

Being in high spirits together with me - is fun…?

...I also enjoy being with you best. I wrote that on our pictures earlier, too. That you're the one who I…love most in the world, so…

…

Hm? That's…the one we took earlier, isn't it? Ohh. We were so pressed to get to dinner, we didn't really get to see what we wrote on it.

…

Ah! You wrote something on it, too? Let's see… Mineo, I...love you…

Th-This…! …!

Really? You also wrote you love me. To think that we get along even on this… Eheh. Man, how much do we love each other?

Hah… I'm sorry. Of course that'd make you angry. You said you love me as I am now after all. I'm not me when I force and overstretch myself. That's what you mean, right?

Hey. Come over here a bit.

…

You know, I… keep feeling like I'm acing an exam when I'm with you. Just being able to travel with you made me ecstatic, and when I saw you climbing over the rock in your yukata as well, it was…kind of…different from how you normally are. It got my heart racing. When I sat closer to you when we took pictures in the photo booth, stuff like the smell of your shampoo seriously got to me.

Then, uh… I'm saying this now, but… The truth is, I...felt a little like wanting to… k...kiss you...

…

Eh--! Stupid! Don't say stuff like you'd be glad even if I did! Don’t underestimate me. Now see here - men easily get carried away! You're someone I…want to treasure.

… [hand holding]

…!

You're…always like that.

No matter how much I run away… you chase me, hold onto me, and don't let me go. You got more guts than your outward appearance suggests. You're a cool woman.

Though this is the last time I'm making sure… It's really okay?

…

Heh. I got it. Then…

[kiss]

Your heart's pounding... Hehe. Mine is too.

But, you know. We're okay like this. Having the same feelings, we reach an understanding, and move forward together. Going like that suits us most. Though I end up putting on airs in front of you, saying what I really think like this and being natural at times is also important.

Same goes for you. If you have something you want to say, say it without holding back.

…

Oh? That face means there’s something you wanna say...! C’mon, what is it? Try saying it!

…

...Eh? ...W-...Wait a sec… I-I might've misheard you… J-Just now, what...did you say?

…

Gh--! Y-You want to sleep together...?! Wai… I-Isn't the hurdle suddenly too high?! Are we going that far up the stairway of adulthood and the like...?! I mean, it's not like I didn't think of that at all, but - I thought of taking it slow and building up to the climax where--!

…

...Eh? …Next to each other?

..Ahhh, so that'd be, uh… Sleeping snuggled up in the same futon… That kind of sleeping together?

...Ha. Hahaha! AHAHAHAHA! U-Uh, of course...! I thought that's what you meant! I-If that's what you'd like, we can do that however much you want! I’ve done that with my little sister! I'm her companion when I babysit!

…

H-Hey, hey, you don't need to pull my sleeve for me to...

…

Huh? ...Hey... Your face is - looking kinda scary...

…

Not the same as my sister…? Wh-- Ah-- Oh, no! When I said that I didn't mean it like...!

…

Wha-- Oh, w-whoa, whoa...!

Uh-- Umm… I made a slip-up, earlier. I apologized, so...please cheer up.

…

C’mon, it's not that I treat you like a little sister...! Mnghh…!

...I got it. It'll be fine if we sleep together like lovers, right? Uh… Then…

[shifting; rustling]

…How's this? It's an arm pillow. Th-This is - only something lovers do, right?

…

Gh--! Is that it…?! You little…! Even though this is plenty given the situation…! If you make too many demands now… That mouth of yours? Will be sealed shut.

…

!

Ha. Jeez… I understand how you feel veeery well. Even for me… To be this close to you, and not do anything about it…is impossible.

[kiss]

For all of today, and until morning comes… I won't let you go.

[dongsooks]

Pentagon as uni-students

Admin: Asa Type: AU Warnings: I do not know Pentagon personally! A/N: I go to school in Germany and I’m only familiar with the German and the Kazakh scholar system. But then again I think university is always the same experience with it being a mix of pain but also ~maKinG MEmoriEs~ and getting to know the real meaning of capitalism. Asa out.

Jinho:

Major: Music Education, maybe later on Music Therapy

Just wanted to make his passion into his career

that one ho THAT ALWAYS STUDIES 

IS CALM BEFORE EXAMS??????????

Probably the type that has a long term relationship throughout college to avoid STD’s

really enjoys what he is doing

whenever he holds presentations he has this genuine passion in his eyes like wow???

Teacher’s pet but just because he is the best and is so interested in learning

always asks for extra material to ~expand his horizon~ 

I could also see him starting Music Therapy after he gets his bachelor in Music ed??

because he realises music makes him happy, he sees how music actually makes others happier and he just wants to spread!!! happiness!!! and his love for music!!!

originally started working in a grad-school but then quit to work in an elementary school

less income but he loves seeing the kids all excited and eager to learn it reminds him of himself, sob

Just please imagine him, his calm voice, his patient character and his love for music teaching and helping people?? I’M??

dreams of opening his own music school/music therapy center

Hui:

Major: Music Theory and Composition; Performance

fight me, do it, but:

THEATRE KID HUI????

I mean you can lie to yourself, but in the end we can all see him on that stage being the phantom of that opera 

brags about interships he gets, contacts he makes

works at the local theatre on weekends where he does all the dirty work but in exchange he can view all plays for free

takes girls to said plays to impress them

“Oh the main? Yeah sure we’re like basically friends”

The overly hype one at campus parties

always ends up in a drunk vocal battle with Jinho at the end of the night oh the cringe

Hates the theory parts and always would prefer actually singing, performing, playing than just??reading how?? jesus what he got them vocals for y’all

the type who starts studying for finals the week before and eventually just laughs the lack of sleep away

tries to get the teachers to like him

Hongseok:

Major: Physical Activity, Nutrition & Health Promotion

honestly for the other’s I did research on what majors there are and read into them t make sure they fit but for him I just looked for the English equivalent of what I meant Sport- und Ernährungswissenschaften my german folks will know

okay back to it

campus heartthrob but also campus mom

cooks healthy soup when his friends get sick :’)

and then tells them about all the nutritions inside and what vegetable helps for what 

the typical jock with enough brains to actually study something 

“do you even lift bro?”

“I had to broken legs and sprained all my toes and still got an A in my PE” everytime someone mentions physical pain

will recommend moves for when your back hurts though :’)

Asks girls if they need help with their workouts as a pickup line 

Shinwon:

Major: Fashion

Fashion queen

always well dressed

how he affords to keep his style that good is worth a buzzfeed unsolved episode tbh

comes to 8 am courses in Balenciaga

may or may not have a slight shopping addiction

never seen making money, studying, putting any effort into anything

but STILL ALWAYS ON THAT SHIT

good grades, good looks, style so good Karl Lagerfeld unnies was found shaking in his boots

lures photography majors into taking his portfolio pictures

and his Instagram pictures

probably gets offered one or two modeling contracts eventually

you could swear you saw him in the Vogue the other day

ALWAYS NAKED AT THE END OF PARTIES

The one who suggest Strip Poker EVERYTIME

but that’s for an au coming soon which’s title rhymes with ptg as fucktroys ;)

Hyojong:

Major: Fine arts

has a Kranken, listens to real music and likes to judge people who wear skinny jeans watch out

seems unapproachable but honestly, genuinely is nice when you get to know him

part of the dance group

actually very interested in his courses but always seems like he is about to pass tf out

the guy who’s health you’re just really concerned about but he’s holding up, doing well

really good at art though

like they get displayed in the local museum good 

always a little disturbing but so, so interesting and deep??

Probably smokes them trees to widen his horizon man

dorm FULL OF DAMN PLANTS 

was seen having a whole funeral for one of them once

the type of person where everyone who knows them says they’re so nice and great but you’re on the low intimidated by them

Changgu:

Major: Classic literature

so involved in acting but also writing

writes poems 

goes to poetry slams with Hyojong 

the type of person who you could talk to for hours and hours

writes poems for his s/o’s

cries during emotional plays, novels etc

everyone loves him tbh 

the soft one who is ALL OVER THE PLACE during finals

S T RES S ED OUT so much Tyler Joseph knows NOTHING 

worries so much but ends up with great grades!!!

needs lots of encouragement 

Yan An:

Major: International Studies

to be very honest I just had no idea what else to give him? 

I mean he said he’d be a flight attendant if he wasn’t an idol and you don’t have to go to Uni for that

but I guess this come close enough? 

gets the cultural aspect and everything

seems lost all the time

like in his last year first-years will show him around 

all the teachers are in love with him

he always gets dicounts because eeeveeeryyyonneee loooooves hiiimmm he is sooooo softttt omg

once had a phucboy phase but psshhhh

knows everything before finals but still stresses out

sometimes asks for help because he didn’t understand something and just smiles even though he still didn’t get it bby

generally smiles a lot for no reason

a puppy, a whole pup

YUTOOOO:

Major: Sport and Fitness Administration Management

probably has a scholarship 

wanted something “easy” but “safe”

honestly puts a lot more effort into his sports than school but always makes it

is the best player of the team

his coach probably always on the other teacher’s diccs about him

so he always gets to hand things in later/retake tests 

is unapproachable but nice #2

leaves parties before it gets dark so he only has a small time frame to GET LIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTT

gets drunk and does that “EY EY EY EY” deep, manly, TESTOOOOSTERONE scream thing men do y’all feel me???

I think no one gets what I mean but I feel so passionately that he’d do that I’ll leave it in

forgets to bring his pencil, his notebook, his motivation and HIS DAMN BAG LIKE BOY IS YOU_::;.,:_

but always ready to help and share as much knowledge as he has we’re all just here to make it and leave

Kino <3:

Major: Dance 

whooooo saw THAT coming wow what

yeah but maybe an education minor too?

has his SHIT TOGETHER! WOW !??

the epitome of a teachers pet

but tbh everyone just loves him it’s as simple as that

much like Jinho to be honest so I’m afraid to just repeat myself but shortly:

passionate

in love with what he is doing

wants to share this

is so genuinely happy to do what he does even when it’s hard it’s so?? inspirational?

dreams about opening his own dance studio 

but same as with Jinho I could see him into teaching especially younger kids

not much to say, he’s great and on top of the game 

Wooseok:

Major: Music Theory and Composition; Music Management

wanted to chase his dream but also chase that shmoney

soundcloud rapper

once hacked the university facebook page to post a video of himself recreating the 

“it’s ya boy, uhhh, skinny penis”-vine

gets delusional from the lack of sleep during exam season tbh

“can I borrow your calculator? what’s 4+5?” 

always drunk at parties but a funny, bearable kind of drunk

also seen hungover and full of regret ™ the next morning lmfao 

hungover in class

also brings snacks to class 

but makes it and so will you!!

Requests and Ships are open my children

Masterlist

[l0vey-d0vey-moved]

Every number with a five? If that's too much feel free to skip some jshjdjdh

safkjsk its ok!! i’ve done like.  a lot more than this don’t worry. i’m assuming like, 5s and 15s, etc, so !!! correct me if im wrong skajfsljfs

5. Were you already close friends before going out as a couple?

why,,, yes!! we had grown closer when we first launched into space, because, uhhhhhh i was the one who probably freaked out the most. and even though lance was p flirty towards me in the beginning, he was pretty sympathetic because he really missed his family too.

15. What fictional couples would you compare yourselves to?

oh man this is kinda difficult??? tbh the first disney couple that came to mind was tiana and naveen for some reason? i’m not sure though :o

25. What personality traits does your partner find most attractive about you?

the first trait he loves is that i’m so incredibly kind and caring to everyone i meet (i mean, unless you mess w/ me or my friends + family), even though we’re like. in the middle of a fuckin’ intergalactic war. 

i’m super passionate about all of my interests!! especially dogs and lance!!! i could babble on about either of those topics to him and he’d either stare at me lovingly or just attack my face with kisses bc!!! you’re!! so!! goddamn!!! cute!!!!!!

he also looooves how affectionate i am. even though i’m a little shyer, doesn’t mean i hate pda. i just am super anxious with affection in public so i just. trap him in my grasp in private. 

35. What is your partner’s scent like?

hm.. well, after training or battles, it’s usually like. sweat mixed with a metallic smell (hehehehehe BLOOOOOD). usually, however, i like to describe it as sweet as vanilla, and as nice as fruit. i like fruity scents, like, a lot :o

45. How do you both like to kiss?

SAFHAKJSF UHHH,,, weeeelll??? since i’ve never really kissed anyone and. dont know how kissing works. i just usually stay for like. neck, jaw, cheek, and mb knuckles/hand kisses. lance pretty much just likes to kiss any part of my body that’s exposed (that im comfy with, of course ;>) and it makes me all giggly and flustered. he loves it.

55. Do you express your love lavishly or discreetly?

probably pretty discreetly in public, but lavishly in private. i would do like. more than hold hands or hug in public, but im an anxious little dorko. he understands though!! at least i’m even super affectionate in private. as long as he knows i love him, he’s okay with it.

65. You have a whole weekend to yourselves and 500 in cash- what do you do?

only $500?????? well. first of all. WE MOTHERFUCKIN GET DAISY!!!! daisy’s a pitbull mix that will make me cry anytime i see her. she’s a sweetheart though and loves cuddles!!!! also when we’re done with getting her stuff, lance will probably spend the rest of the money on us both getting pedicures!! or something like that bc self care :D

75. How have you both made a positive impact on each other’s lives?

oh man. lance has honestly helped me love myself a lot more than i ever could alone (also in irl!!!) and he helps me realize i need to take care of myself a lot more than i should. i’ve also made lance realize (slowly but surely) that he’s perfect the way he is, and he doesn’t need to toughen up when he’s not feeling great. also, he finally starts to speak up for himself (bc he doesnt want me to fuckin explode on someone. remember when “shiro”/kuron snapped at lance? yea. even though i really respected shiro, that was the last straw. i fucking lunged at him and hunk had to hold me back because how dare you say that to him?

85. How do you both keep in touch when you’re away from each other?

we try to call eachother each night and text as often as we can. before he leaves, we both give eachother a big dang hug. the others won’t say anything anymore.

95. Who would win in an arm-wrestling contest?

GFABSHJFK LANCE. NO QUESTIONS ASKED. i am a v weak person.

105. If you were both ingredients, what would each of you be and what would be the resulting recipe? (e.g. PB & jelly sandwich)

this is a weird question owo,, the first that came to mind was like sugar (lance) and lemons (me bc im a sour lil bitch) to make lemonade, or pepper (again. lance.) and salt (me. also bc im a salty bitch.)

115. What is something you love that your partner hates?

at first i thought, well, i love taking photos w/ my polaroid camera, but i feel like he would love modeling/posing for me!!! but tbh i think its that i like snakes and cats, both of which he hates. he thinks snakes are creepy and cats are boring. however, snakes are just noodles with googly eyes!! i don’t think i’d personally have one, but still! p cute :o

125. How did you first reveal to people that you were going out?

SKFJAJSFJ lance probably bragged about me to keith, saying “i have the prettiest s/o ever” and for keith (poor oblivious keith) it just. clicked. then we were found cuddling in lance’s room. i was asleep and tucked into his jacket, lance was still awake and like. the whole gang walked in bc keith snitched on lance, and im surprised i didnt wake up. 

(annnd i skipped the last one because it has to do with weddings, which i’m not entirely fond of :/,, but thanks for the ask yo!!!

[papillonrecordhouse]

Ebele x Liber: C-B Support + Event 1

In collaboration with: @mo-re-mi123

@fe-exire

Liber: *walking through the market, marking off a shopping list* Let's see, fruit, check, eggs, check, a new set of glasses, check... Looks like all that's left is spices and herbs. Now where can I find- *sees a merchant selling herbs* ah, perfect timing~

Ebele: *fidgeting with her fingers* Wh-what?!  500 g-gold for som-

Merchant: Look lady, that's my price! If ya don't like it then you can scram!

Liber: *notices the two bickering* Oh dear, this doesn't look fun.

Liber: *walks up to the merchant, flashing a charming smile* My my my, what seems to be the problem? Such a ruckus might scare away other customers~

Ebele: *jumps at his sudden appearance* !!!

Merchant: Huh? oh... Look, I don't want any trouble, but this lady practically wants to steal from me!

Ebele: I-I am not! I- *scared silent by his stare*

Liber: Oh? Is that right? *peeks down at Ebele, gives her a small smile of reassurance*

Liber: *looks back at the merchant, crosses his arms* And how, pray tell, is this lovely woman possibly "practically wanting to steal from you"? From where I'm standing, it looks like you're harassing this poor woman just because she can't pay for your outrageous prices.

Merchant: Wha-! *sweats* W-well obviously these are top quality herbs and spices! *gestures at the herbs that are obviously overpriced*

Ebele: The market price, at most I-I *looks like she'll back down, but looks at Liber* -is 215 gold...!

Liber: *smirks* Ya hear that? 215 gold. At most.

Liber: *looks over to Ebele* And how much was he charging you for those herbs there miss?

Ebele: 500 gold...! *looks at Liber desperately* He's the robber here...!

Merchant: *sweats* L-Look here Miss! I don’t need this trouble. Look I'll sell it to you at 215, and you keep quiet okay? *eyes darting, hoping no one heard*

Liber: *flashes a devilish grin* Listen, there's no need for anyone to get upset. You're just trying to make a living, right? And she's simply just trying to buy some nice herbs. So how about this?

Liber: I pay 350 for her herbs and you throw in some of those spices from the back and we'll call it square? No one has to start any trouble~

Merchant: *looks* What but-! *sees the grin and gulps* F-Fine! *gives them both their purchases, single tear in his eye*

Ebele: *takes it cautiously, then looks to Liber* Thank you so much sir..! *smiles a bit*

Liber: *smiles back* Not a problem. Anything to help a beautiful woman needing to be rescued from conniving rodents.

Liber: Dealing with merchants can be tough, sometimes it helps just to have an extra person around for back-up!

Ebele: B-BeaUti- *bright red, backs away* I- uh! *shaking, like she's going to be eaten*

Liber: *concerned, moves a little closer to her* M-miss? Are you alright? You're shaking-

Ebele: *backs away even more* I'M FINE. *quickly curtsies* THAnK yoU FOr THe ASsisTAnCE. I DO NoT DesIRe FuRTHeR AFfAiRS...! *sounds rehearsed but panicked*

Liber: *looks at her, confused and even more concerned* Um, are you sure? You're acting kind of off...

Ebele: GOOD DAY! *flies away*

[End of Support C]

 [Event: Vernalis]

Ebele: *walking around the streets when she smells something delicious* Oh! Is the feast today? *holds her belly* I hope Sis and Brother won’t be upset with me... *sighs*

Liber: *sighs* Damn it all, I can't find the others anywhere....

Liber: Guess I'll just head to the feast by myself then-

Liber: *notices Ebele* Hm? Wait a second, is that...?

Ebele: *hears someone and turns to see Liber* !!! *not sure what to do*

Liber: *walks over to her, smiles* Hey, you're the woman from the market, right? You ran off in such a rush I never got the chance to catch your name, haha.

Ebele: ! *looks at him* Uhhh, I-It’s Ebele... *darting her eyes around* I-I um... I'm sorry sir, but I d-do not desire any... "further affairs".

Liber: .....riiiiiiight, "further affairs".

Liber: I just came over to make sure you were okay, you had me a little worried there the other day. I hope nothing I said offended you?

Ebele: ... *looks at him cautiously* ... I... I just don’t appreciate advances sir. Um... What's your name, I didn't get it either…

Liber: Advances? Oh, I see, my apologies, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable, I was just simply stating a fact!

Liber: Liber Aurelius, at your service~ *bows gracefully*

Ebele: ! *feels flattered* Well again, thank you Liber for yesterday. I... umm I'm sorry for worrying you. I just... flattery is just not for me! It feels creepy when someone tells me things like that. *wants to hide her face*

Liber: Ah...I see then.

Liber: *smiles* I understand, won't happen again!

Liber: Are you attending the feast?

Ebele: No, sadly... I usually have it with my siblings, but they’re all the way in Goldoa. I actually completely forgot about it. Why? *looks at him with suspicion*

Liber: I was just asking if you wanted to go together! I seem to have lost my group and I figure instead of being alone, we could go with each other! Food always tastes better with someone else's company after all~

Ebele: ! Ah- *shocked but then curious* Are you sure? *looks down then up at him, with soft eyes*

Liber: Of course I'm sure! No sense in both of us being alone during a festival, might as well make the most of things, hm?

Ebele: *judges her options, but then her tummy grumbles* ! Oh well, I suppose you're right. *stands next to him, but with good distance between them* Very well then, um, lead the way?

Liber: Of course, right this way m'lady~ *offers his hand out for her to take it if she wants*

Ebele: *looks at his hand* ? ... oh! *pulls out her purse* Sorry I only have this much. Is there a toll for the feast? *hands him 100 gold*

Liber: *stares at the gold* uh.....

Liber: *hands it back to her* Never mind, let's just get going.

Ebele: *confused, but smiles* Okay!

[End of Event 1]

 Liber: *setting up the table* Okay, plates, check, flowers, check, Food, check.... Now all that's missing is Ebele...

Liber: *looks up at the clock, then back down* Ah, what the hell? She probably won't come. I guess I better get ready to call Chen over soon-

Ebele: *lightly knocks on door* Um, anyone home?... *looks at the paper with the address* This is it, right?

Liber: *hears her knocking* No way... *peeks through the window* I can't believe she actually came.

Liber: *quickly runs over, opens the door* Well hello there, welcomed guest~

Ebele: ! *jumps at the sudden opening* O-oh! Liber, thank you. *curtsies* It’s a pleasure to be here. So this is your home? *looks behind him, as if to be sure they are alone then relaxes*

Liber: Sure thing! Oh please come in, you're just in time for dinner!~ *runs back to the kitchen, allowing Ebele to make herself comfortable*

Ebele: *walks in, looking around* ... *looks at pictures then sees the flowers* Oh! How lovely. *quickly walks over* I have never seen flowers like this before! Are they native to here? *smiling brightly as she gently touches them*

Liber: *yells from the kitchen* Yes ma'am! A friend of mine helped pick them for me, I figured it would help set the mood haha.

Liber: *comes out carrying two hot plates of food, sets them both on the table* Milady, dinner, is served~! *bows dramatically*

Ebele: *looks at him and chuckles* Why thank you~ *smiles and takes in the aroma* It's heavenly! *takes a seat and waits for him*

Liber: *takes a seat* Prepare to be amazed~

Liber: I don't wanna brag, but when I said at the festival I could make something just as good, I meant it!

Ebele: I believe you, just by the smell. *takes a forkful and gasps* !!! *looks at him with wide eyes, filled with joy as she slowly chews her food* Oh my, such flavor! You added a bit of chili pepper didn't you? I can feel the kick~ *takes another forkful*

Liber: *lets out a sigh of relief, a huge smile spreads across his face* I'm glad that you enjoy it! I worked really hard!

Liber: Ahhhh, you noticed! Yeah I thought it really help bring out the main flavor.

Liber: How is everything else? Not too overdone? All the flavors balance out okay? How about- *realizes he's rambling, stops. Mumbles out a quick apology for his behavior before stuffing his face with the food in front of him*

Ebele: *chuckles and nods* It’s not overdone at all! Maybe a bit less salt and it would be exactly perfect! But close to perfect is still amazing! *puts has hand to her heart* You shouldn't apologize for your excitement, its endearing. You must really enjoy cooking. Where did you learn? *takes another forkful*

Liber: *face still red from embarrassment* A-ah, you think so? I suppose, although such behavior really doesn't fit my image I guess, hehe

Liber: *tenses up a little, tries to laugh it off* W-where did I learn? Oh, well, most of it I actually taught myself, but some tricks I learned from my brother. It was my mom who taught me the basics and really got me into it I guess, haha...

Ebele: Oh? Will I hope I can meet them sometime to thank them, their lessons have proven fruitful! *finishes her meal* Delicious! Even better than the feast for sure. *looks at him and notices his tension* Uh, is everything alright?

Liber: *shakes it off, throwing Ebele another smile* Of course, everything's perfect! Another person got to try my cooking and they loved it! What more could I ask for?

Liber: *already picking up her plate* Here, I'll just get this out of your way for you-

Ebele: *cups his hand by instinct but then let’s go* ! Um... Are you sure you're okay? *looks up to him* I didn't mean to intrude.

Liber: *slightly taken aback by her sudden reaction, then eases up* Ah, it's nothing really. You aren't intruding, I promise~

Ebele: *thinking then gets an idea* You know... There's a festival coming up. And after such a lovely dinner... I was thinking I could treat you to some then! I won't be busy with patients that day so... It'd be perfect if you like.

Liber: *thinks about it* Hmm... You know what, that sounds lovely! Any chance to spend more time with you would be a wonderful treat! I accept~

Ebele: *smiles again* Great! Then on that day, I hope to meet you at the festival. *gets up* I should get going, I have a long day ahead of me tomorrow. *curtsies*

Liber: Of course, of course! Until then milady. *tries to bow with the plates still in hand, a lil wobbly, but still pretty good*

Ebele: *chuckles and leaves*

[End of Support B]