#and realise the only thing they need is each other

[sarah-ankh]

It also clearly demonstrates several things.

1) the cats know their own names and are capable of responding

2) they have some kind of emotional inner life and concept of selfhood because they want their human to acknowledge them and are visibly disturbed by the lack

3) at least some basic theory of mind as they are able to recognise that they know information their human doesn't have.

Undeniably sentient, and probably at least a bit sapient.

Sentient = capable of emotional experiences greater than basic stimulus response. Pretty much all animals probably have this, insects might? It's very hard to tell past a certain point if we are just projecting.

sapient = intelligent self-awareness with complex/abstract thoughts. E.g. theory of mind, which human children begin to develop around 4 years old. Hence the incessant "why?" phase.

Both of these are sliding scales, not simply a binary. There are greater and lesser degrees of both sapience and sentience

Theory of Mind = the ability to conceptualise 1) yourself as an individual mind, 2) other people as minds separate to yourself 3) that you possess information they do not and vice versa.

Theory of mind is a necessary foundation for empathy (but not the only one). Recognising they have an emotional inner world just like you, and that their world is just as valid as yours.

Sentient and Sapient tend to get muddled up with each other, and with the general term 'intelligent'. When we talk about animal intelligence, we are mostly talking about judging their level of sapience, and how it compares to our own, but there are other kinds of intelligence.

Problem solving for one, ants as a colony demonstrate incredible problem solving abilities.

Instinct is also a form of intelligence. Gut feeling. the things you don't need to learn how to do, they're just there. Preprogrammed

With AI sentience is gonna be the real achievement. An artificial being with a demonstrable emotional inner life is *the* jackpot. Ultimately computers are tools. Problem solving is what they're designed for but anything we program them to do is essentially instinctual to them.

Machine learning is a big step in advancing the problem solving capabilities of bots.

LLMs like chatgpt are essentially just a friendly user interface and a novel implementation rather than a significant advancement towards AGI.

AGI - Artificial General Intelligence. An ai that is truly both sentient and sapient.

Personhood is an ill-defined term that is likely to generate more and more controversy as we move forward. In my personal opinion, personhood requires requires an individual to demonstrate a basic level of both sentience and sapience. It's a trait that can be acquired, not something intrinsic. I dont think humans intrinsically have personhood from birth, but they rapidly develop to that basic level, and then continue to develop well beyond it into a fully realised human.

We should, and we do treat children as people under the law, with considerations for their developing state and diminished capacity.

I believe there are some animals which can demonstrate the same basic level of sapience as a child, and I think we would benefit from extending the same benefits to them as we do to children. The other great apes for example.

I believe eventually we will develop sentient AIs, either fully artificial, or by uploading human consciousness. And I think it's essential that we have the legal and practical framework for personhood established long before we get to that point.

[inmyheaddd]

✦ steered your way — leo valdez x reader

wc: 2.0k summary: you and your friends have just finished a little quest and are heading back to camp, and you and leo are the only ones awake in the dark of the night. a/n: first leo fic... my baby he's so cute

you weren’t sure how you’d ended up alone with leo. again. not that you minded, but it was becoming something you couldn’t not take notice of. every time the group split up, it always seemed to be you and him. you didn’t think too much of it—at least, not until now.

yes, you'd come best friends as a result of just always being around each other, but now that its been a few months, you started to feel more than just platonic feelings.

now, you two were the only ones on your little quest with your friends taking the night watch. it was the freezing months of winter, but leo being leo, barely even felt the cold. 

you had suggested setting up a fire because your fingertips felt like they were literally about to fall off, and his brows furrowed momentarily like he was confused on why you would suggest that, then realisation hit him. 

“oh,” he said, his hand scratching the back of his neck, “right, yeah, of course— the cold, you're cold. i'll get a fire started!” he grinned, and 5 seconds later, there was a little campfire that you and leo were sitting by, your friends in their tents just a few feet away. 

“we’re heading home tomorrow, right?” you hated being away from camp for so long— it had become a home for you quicker than any place ever has. you finished your quest, but everyone was just so tired, you needed a few hours to just rest.

''yeah,'' he muttered lowly. he was tinkering with some scrap metal he brought with him that he'd been working on every moment of his free time, his knee bouncing as he worked. ''we'll head back first thing tomorrow, maybe get some food along the way.'' his voice was steady, clearly having all his focus on whatever he was doing with that object in his hands.

you liked moments like this with him, the oddly calm and quiet ones, where you could simply just admire him being him, doing the things he loved.

it was a new moon, so the sky was fully dark, save for a few stars and smaller constellations. the campfire cast a soft orange glow on his face, and for a second, you forgot what you were even planning to say.

“you okay over there?” he asked, not even looking up, the teasing back in his voice like he suddenly remembered how he had once declared it was his 'official job to annoy you at all times' a few months ago.

“yeah,” you said quickly, fidgeting with the hem of your shirt. you took a deep breath, trying to ignore the way your heart raced. “actually, uh, i wanted to talk to you about something.”

that got his attention. his hands stilled, the little gadget he was working on shoved into his jackets' pocket carefully as he finally looked up. “what’s up?”

you hesitated, your pulse thrumming in your ears. this was fine. it was leo. it was just leo. except it wasn’t just leo, and that was kind of the problem.

“okay, so, um,” you started, stumbling over your words. “i like you.”

silence.

he blinked at you, his head tilting slightly. "what?"

"i like you," you repeated, your voice softer now, but the words felt no less terrifying.

his brow furrowed, his expression caught somewhere between confused and wary. 

"i don't understand," he said slowly, like he was trying to piece together a puzzle.

you frowned, your confidence slipping.

"what’s there to understand? i just said i like you, leo." you tried to act casual about it, but your heart seemed to have missed the message and was beating like you had just sprinted at speed of a million miles per hour. 

for a second, he didn’t say anything. he just blinked at you, his expression unreadable. and then he laughed—a quick, nervous sound, like he didn’t quite believe you. “what, like, as a friend?”

“no, leo,” you said, your voice wavering slightly, looking him straight in the eyes for a moment. “like, like-like you.”

his mouth opened, then closed, like he didn’t know what to say. 

his eyes darted away from yours, and he shifted uncomfortably, scratching the back of his neck. “i mean, a—are you sure?” he asked, and for all his usual cockiness, his voice sounded uncertain now. 

you frowned, leaning forward slightly. “yeah, leo. i’d say i’m pretty sure,” you said with a small chuckle, ”why wouldn’t i be sure?”

he let out a shaky laugh, his gaze still fixed on the gadget in his hands. “i don’t know, ‘cause like, you— we—” he started, then cut himself off with a sigh, “never mind mind, forget it.” 

you noticed the tension in his brows, the way his fingers kept tapping against his thigh, like he would do when he had a million thoughts running through his mind.

“leo,” you said, wanting to do nothing more than kiss the slight frown off his face. why was this so hard for him to believe?

"you're the guy who makes me laugh even when i don't want to. you’re the guy who makes up weird nicknames for me that i pretend to hate, you’re the guy who pretends to be annoyed when i break something, but then spends the whole day fixing it without me even asking. and you’re the guy who..." you trailed off, biting the inside of your cheek to stop your smile. "the guy who's way too hard not to like." 

he finally looked up at you, his brown eyes narrow and searching, like he was trying to figure out if you were messing with him. “you really mean that?”

you couldn’t even hide the stupid smile on your face, “of course i do.” 

for a moment, he just stared at you, his expression soft. then, slowly, that grin that you loved started to spread across his face. “well, uh,” he said, his voice lighter now, “good, ’cause, y’know, i kinda like you too.” he said, “like-like you.”

you couldn’t help but laugh, the tension melting away. “yeah?” you laughed, “that’s good to know, valdez.”

“yeah, well,” he said, his grin turning into a smirk, and you noticed his hands were no longer fidgeting around. “don’t go getting all mushy on me now. i’ve got a reputation to uphold.”

“right, your reputation as a total dork?”

“exactly,” he said, his smirk softening into something warmer. “but, uh, thanks. for, y’know, liking me anyway.”

you rolled your eyes, but your smile didn’t fade. “sure,” you giggled, “anytime.”

he stared at you for a second, then broke into a wide, lopsided grin that made your stomach do another stupid flip. he cocked his head his head to the side beckoning you closer. you happily obliged, leaning into his side as he wrapped an arm around you.

he was unusually silent, so you leaned back from his hold and looked up at him, in question.

''what?'' you asked, and he was biting back a smile like he always did when he was debating if he should saying something stupid. “nothing, i just knew the valdez charm would come through one day.”

you pushed his shoulder, “oh my gods, leo” you stifled a laugh, “nevermind, i take it all back.” 

“wait, wait, wait, i was just kidding!” he reached his arms back out, and it took a lot of self control you didn’t even realize you had to not fall back right into them.

“please come back, i’m sorry.” he said, his voice low and half teasing, and you shook your head as you laughed a little yourself.

“you’re so not funny.”  you mumbled into his chest, the cold air not being a problem anymore.

''yeah, yeah.'' you heard the smile in his voice as his arm moved up and down your shoulder. ''you say that a lot.''

''wait, but,'' he narrowed his eyes and tilted his head as he leant back a little, his arm sliding off. “didn’t you just say that i make you laugh even when you don’t want to? i'd say that means i'm pretty funny. "

''i lied.''

''right. did you lie about the rest too?'' he said sarcastically.

you huffed, biting back a smile as you thought back on that ramble-confession of yours.

''... no.'' you murmured quietly, not even bothering to make a remark as you looked at your hands.

when you looked up, leo had that one grin on his face that was more sweet than teasing. ''would you look at that?'' he said, ''you being all nice and sappy, seriously, i don't deserve it.''

''seriously, stop it,'' you grumbled, and he put his arm back around you. it wasn't unusual because even when you were simply friends, being physical wasn't a rare occurrence.

what was a new occurrence, though, was leo pressing a kiss to the top of your head.

you pressed your lips together to hide your smile, but you couldn't do anything to stop the reddening of your face.

''you know, uh, speaking of charm...'' leo suddenly said, removing his arm from around you and digging into his pocket. ''this was what i was working on earlier, its uh, its a charm.'' he started, ''i made you a bracelet to go with, but its back at camp, so...''

he pulled out a tiny object and held it in between his thumb and pointer fingers. you looked up from his hands to his face, ''can i?" you whispered, like anything louder would ruin the moment.

he mumbled a small, low, ''of course,'' his eyes trained on you as he placed the tiny object in your hands, his fingers brushing over your palm slightly.

he had made you a charm.

despite all of the weaponry and larger scale items he forged, he managed to design the daintiest little thing, about the size of your thumbnail. it was a bronze circular compass, gold edges, with a tiny ruby in the centre.

he watched your reaction, silently hoping that you'd love it. he'd been aiming to finish it before the quest, and give it to you just before you all left to start it off on a good note, but of course, with his luck, he accidentally broke a piece when it was halfway done, and had to restart the whole thing. he really hoped it was worth the wait.

''oh my gods, leo, its so beautiful. i can't believe you made this,'' you muttered, rambling other words of affection in awe as you fully took in the compass and turned it over in your hands.

''yeah, uh the pointer thing, it always points you to wherever you believe home is.''

he mentioned that fact so casually, as if the items importance didn't just increase a million times more in your mind. you looked at him in awe this time, amazement written over your features. he smiled a little awkwardly, and it was the cutest thing you'd ever seen.

with this new fact about the compass, you looked back down at it once more.

you wondered if it was pointing at camp, and you thought about all the times you had, midnight group rendezvous— meeting by the beach and laughing all night, leo persuading you to do karaoke with him which slowly turned into the whole group singing (and almost getting caught), and successfully sneaking back into your cabin and going to bed with a smile on your face.

the pointer seemed to flicker between your friends tents, which made you smile, because your friends really were your home. then you realised, home wasn't the place, but it was rather the people who took up that place.

you really hoped he didn't notice the way the pointer pointed directly at him now.

''i love it, thank you so much,'' you told leo, eyes flickering between his features, before carefully hooking the charm onto your camp necklace temporarily to keep it safe.

''i'm actually... i'm at a loss for words, leo.'' you said with a half hearted chuckle, shaking your head slightly.

he smiled sheepishly, like he didn't know how to respond to the compliment. his eyes flickered down to the charm for a moment, and his face seemed to flush.

''hey, its no problem.'' he grinned at you, ''i can talk enough for the both of us.'' he nudged your shoulder, then held his arm out once again, inviting you in for a side hug.

you nuzzled a little closer into leo's side, and you thought: maybe sitting by this fire, leo's arms around you while all your friends slept was worth the loss of sleep before your journey back home. you snuck another look at the compass, and you smiled a little. yeah— still pointing right at leo.

taglist: @lovethornes @littlemissmentallyunstable @midiosaamor @maybxlle @imaseabear @sheisntyou @off-to-the-r4ces @anintellectualintellectual @wish-i-were-heather @hxress23 @hermesenthusiast @that-daughter-of-hephaestus

[tinietaehyun]

INVITE: Always & Forever

[Vampire!Beomgyu x Herbalist!Reader] [Part II - Sequel] [One-shot]

Pairing: Vampire!Beomgyu x Herbalist!Reader

Genre(s): Supernatural, romance, angst, action, forbidden!love, fantasy, thriller.

Contains: Profanity, mentions of biting, blood, injury, death, suggestive/mature themes, established relationship, graphic depictions of injury, violence.

Links: Invite (Part I) || Masterlist

Summary: His fangs graze your neck causing you to shiver, each night in his embrace and each day, walking hand in hand. A secret romance, a dark secret only you two knew, and if it came out to the rest of the villagers that the very vampire they were on the hunt for was the one you were courting? Then well… it’d certainly make things unfortunate wouldn’t it.

Just how long could you two slip away under the dark, keep your rendezvous a secret? Slip your love under the rug before it could end disastrously?

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry I couldn’t protect you, sweet healer,” he breathes. You cup his cheek shakily, “You need not be sorry, Beomgyu. It’s them.”

Utter bliss, the warmth of your bare body against his felt heavenly against his own cold skin. How pliant, how soft, tender, the curves that he couldn’t get out of his mind— sweet moans, and gasps. It was indeed a night he’d not forget for a long time, if not ever.

You lay wrapped in his embrace, face nuzzled into his chest, hair dishevelled, the bite marks on your neck and shoulders now fading leaving a shadow of a memory. The only marks that remain are dozens of love bites littered across the canvas of your skin.

You both cherished moment like this. After a passionate encounter, the simple morning with the sun gleaming through the tattered curtains. You knew the moment you saw Beomgyu perched devilishly on your balcony yesterday night, it was bound to occur. A nuzzle here, a peck there. A small nibble of blood, he said, one more bite, he said. One thing led to the next, and in moment you two were in bed together.

It had been just over six months since you and Beomgyu had officially began courting each other (albeit secretly of course), the villagers had noticed that the number of attacks had declined massively. Of course they would, after all, you’d provide Beomgyu with just enough sustenance. He relished your blood like no other, loved the flavour and essence of it, he’d never get enough. He had always insisted that he wouldn’t feed off you daily, he wanted you to have strength, and not just use you as food, no matter how much you insisted it was fine.

From the loving look in his gaze, the way he cupped your cheek, ran his fingers through your hair, tightly wrapped his arms around you, you could tell this vampire, was utterly and astoundingly in love with you. And you? You were just as infatuated and deeply in love with him as he was. He took over your thoughts and despite your bickering (which you oh, so loved) — you couldn’t get enough of him!

His groan makes your eyes flutter open and you shift yourself to crane your head up to meet his gaze. Oh how beautiful he was, although not surprising for a vampire. His dark locks dishevelled, his gaze drops to meet yours, a spark of mischief lighting up in them, lips quirking into a smirk.

Before you know it, Beomgyu dips his head down nuzzling into your neck and inhaling deeply sending a shiver down your spine, followed by a quick nip to your earlobe. “Morning, little healer. How are you feeling? Do need to be patched up yourself?” He litters kisses up your neck making you giggle, his hair being ticklish, “I was rather rough, hm? I couldn’t help myself, just seeing you after you went on that two day herb expedition, it drove me crazy, you understand, right?”

You coo, running your fingers through his hair, “Mm, I’m not complaining.” He muses, “Yesterday, you definitely weren’t… in that case,” his hand trails down your waist and your eyes widen as you realise what he intends to do, “No, no! Up, up, up, you mischievous vamp, I have to open up the shop.”

He pouts, “Come now, sweet healer, surely your customers can wait for an hour…” he pauses, “Or two?” You playfully smack his shoulder as you wrestle your way out of his grasp, “Nope, no bargaining, no bartering, no concessions. I’m serious. Behave.”

He huffs, “My, my dear healer, so cruel to your lover. I just wished to show you how much I missed you.”

“You act as though I were gone for a week or two, it was only two days,” you hum amused getting ready to bathe. His eyes flit over your form as you rush around, “Those two days felt like two centuries, my sweet healer, you simply don’t understand.”

Rolling your eyes, you grab a towel, “Well, I can’t help you there, your perception of time seems to be rather warped, Beomgyu.” You pause, “Ah wait, you were careful right? I mean for food. I wasn’t there to feed you and-“

He sits up tousling his hair and he peers at your seriously, “I know, I know. You told me an uncountable amount of times before you left, to not be reckless or lose control. Do not worry, I stuck to cattle and a rabbit…mostly,” he grimaces, “Awful, by the way.”

You scoff, “Just animal blood right?” He sheepishly grins, “Uhm, maybe one human.” You glare, “I’m going to kill you, the villagers will have our heads on stakes. Both of us. They’ll think I’m a heretic. Or that I’ve been enthralled and kill you first and then me.”

As much as your relationship blossomed over these months, you both knew there one major issue that held you two back. His identity as a vampire — enemy of the village, a sadistic monster feared by all. And your identity as a mere human, siding with said monster, and heinously giving him your blood. That’d make you the child of the devil himself in the village leader’s eyes! They’d drive the both of you out; pitchforks and flaming torches and ruckus roars.

You shake your head removing that scary image. You didn’t want that, neither did he. So you both were cautious, incredibly so, or well, tried to be. It was hard, the village was a small place, there was always someone everywhere, eyes everywhere. You’d mostly meet up at night, where everyone mostly stayed indoors due to fear of…well your lover.

His arrogance and over-confidence in his ability to not get caught always set you on edge, made you paranoid. You chided him many times of course. Beomgyu sighs, “I’m sorry, I know, but… he was injured and well…it just, after that disgusting animal blood, I couldn’t help myself, you know?” You deadpan, “Just…you know we can’t afford to be careless. No one saw you right?”

“Yes, yes, I made sure no one was nearby and as usual erased his memory.” Your shoulders relax and you huff, “Two days and you can’t even wait for me.” He gets up stretching, your eyes flitting to the way his muscles flex, he catches your gaze with a smirk, “My offer for some morning fun still stands?”

You glare softly, “Very amusing, Beomgyu.” He shrugs, running his fingers through his dark brown locks, “A valiant effort from my end.” Shaking your head, you smile exasperated, “Anyway, we have to be careful, the villagers you know…”

Beomgyu walks up to you, wrapping his strong arms around you from behind as he nuzzles into the crook of your neck and murmurs, “I know, I know, sweet healer. You mean the world to me, the last thing I’d want is for you to be taken away from me.” His gaze noticeably darks and his grasp around you tightens, “I’d never let that fucking happen. I don’t care who I have to hurt.”

You twist around his arms with a smile cupping his cheek and then pinching it as he glares waving away your hand, “Are you cooing at me?” You pout, “So protective aren’t we? But I’d rather not have such bloodshed, no? We have to avoid such an outcome.” He presses his lips against your forehead tenderly before leaning his own against yours, “Mm, I suppose so, dear healer. Makes sense considering your occupation that you’d not want any casualties.”

You scoff and he murmurs, “I just think it’s a shame I cannot show you off, arm in arm, proclaim to the world that you are mine and mine alone. That we must hide.” You frown momentarily and sigh, “I…I know, Beomgyu. I’ve thought about it a lot too. But with the way society is and all..I’d not want to take the chance to lose you—even if it means utter secrecy.” He nods, eyes closing in bitter understanding.

Your days are spent in your shop preparing remedies with the much loved company of your salacious yet romantic lover. He made your dreary days and monotonous routines not so boring. He even accompanied you to collect herbs, worrying about you going into the woods by yourself.

You found solace in his arms and so did he in yours. His cold lifeless body felt lit with renewed life, as though he were truly living again. Everything about you, your endearing mannerisms, the way you spoke to him, that adorable look of concentration whenever you were using the mortar pestle on some particularly pesky herbs or how you’d gaze up at him with the most heart-stopping stare. All of it, everything about you just seemed to make life all the more worthwhile— something he could come back to each day, not just focusing on his pursuit of sustenance.

Meanwhile, your days were filled with a tender warmth and beautiful joy. Some days where he wouldn’t visit your shop, pester you like he always did, you felt empty. You relished the way his large hands fit with yours, the way his fingers intertwine with yours and squeeze reassuringly, his hushed whispers, his ticklish pecks along your neck. You adored it, and he adored doing such things to see your flustered and endearing reaction.

Although he was a pest whilst working, although you bickered back and forth, you knew he had your heart in his hands, without a doubt. From the way he gazed at you with such love, it was indeed the same for him.

Sighing, you grind the herbs in the mortar and yelp as you feel cold hands on your shoulders. His husky voice caressing your left ear, “Miss me, sweet healer?”

You peer over your shoulder with a snarky smile, “What makes you think that? Of course not.” You see the tip of his tongue flick over the point of one of his fangs in delight, a habit you noticed when he was in a playful or flirtatious mood.

“Oh really, hm? I find that rather hard to believe.” His hands trail down your arms leaving goosebumps before settling on your hips giving them a firm squeeze as he rests his chin down onto your shoulder. “Mm… so warm.”

You muse, “I’m beginning to think you’re a reptile with how much you adore my body heat.” He scoffs nuzzling into your neck, “Don’t be rude, I am not some pathetic snake or lizard.”

“You’re practically cold-blooded, in a sense, no? An overgrown reptile, but I suppose bat would be more accurate. Mosquito also works-“ You murmur amused as you continue adding more variety of herbs and plants to the grinded mixture. Beomgyu deadpans at you and you snicker.

Beomgyu huffs, “That’s a very ignorant assumption, healer. I’m wounded.” A chuckle leaves your lips, “Oh my poor Beomgyu, are your feelings hurt?” He rolls his eyes, “How, you torment your lover so, dearest healer, how cruel can you be? I flourish you with countless compliments, and this is how I get repaid?”

You feel him deeply inhale— he always did love your neck. Your scent, oh, and of course your blood. As twisted as it sounded, you couldn’t help but feel utter pleasure when he sinks his teeth into the crook of your neck, the scandalous gulps and slurps, the feel of his wet tongue lapping against your skin. It was all so much- even the mere thought of it had you writhing. However, he never took too much. Just enough, you always knew he was paranoid, claimed he had good control— which he did. There was no lapses or moments where you ever felt unsafe or in danger with him.

“Mm…” he inhales again, “….fuck, you smell exquisite.” You wince with a smile feeling his fangs graze your skin and you whine, “Beomgyu, I swear- I’m in the middle of-“

A brief peck lands on your skin as his hands caress your sides, “I know, I know, sweet healer, you’re in the middle of work. Don’t worry, I’ll behave myself, like a good vampire. Okay? No need to get yourself into a fluster.”

With an exasperated sigh, you resume your work. Your own desires and hungers making the simple task that you do for a living much more difficult to focus on— all the while, your lover clings onto your from behind content to bask in your radiating warmth.

As you pour the grinded mixture into a quaint glass bottle and plug it with a cork, he eases up from you with a stretch, “It’s your birthday soon, right?” Beomgyu asks with a playful gleam in his gaze.

You wrap some twine around the neck of the glass bottle, threading the label through it and you raise a brow, “…yes, why do you ask?” Beomgyu smirks with a shrug resting his hands into his pockets, “Mm, just wanted to spoil my lovely little healer that day. I had a few things in mind.”

“Such as?” You inquire curiously. He walks up to you placing his index finger atop your lips and whispers, “That’s a surprise.”

You scoff, “If it involves carrying me over your shoulder upstairs, and spending the night-“ His eyes twinkle, “Well, I won’t deny that outcome, but aside from that finale, I had a few other things in mind that day. As I said, sweet healer, a surprise.”

You mirror his smirk, “Alright then, Beomgyu. I look forward to it.” You’d be spending your birthday with him, for the first time. No, in fact it would be the first time you’d be spending your birthday, not working alone for once. The notion of this, makes your heart swell.

Beomgyu leans down cupping the back of your head placing a tender kiss on the tip of your nose and then on your lips, “You can wait a few days right?” You hum, “I can be the very picture of patience.” He muses, “Good.”

So, as you said, you waited, went about your days with him in bliss and most importantly anticipation. Indeed, it had been a long time since you were truly excited for your birthday— something you had always considered rather lacklustre, as ordinary as a normal day. But this time, things were different!

And so with great anticipation, you await the day of your birthday.

On that day, you wake up to find your vampiric lover perched on your window sill with a bouquet of fresh roses as the sunlight glimmers across his skin. With a flourish in his steps, he kicks off his boots, falling into your blanket as you wrap your arms around him in an embrace filled with laughter and affection. You take the blood-red roses admiring their beauty.

“Stunning flowers, for my stunning healer, happy birthday, my love,” he murmurs, whispering sweet nothings into your ear. The two of you make breakfast, nothing too special, but he was adamant that you closed shop today— claiming today was about you. That you would be fine not working for one day; that you deserve a break.

Reluctantly, you admit, Beomgyu was right. It felt good to not wake up so early, bustle downstairs, shovel your breakfast down and begin working, grinding powders, sifting, boiling and bubbling herbal potions and elixirs.

Putting on your nicest dress, you laugh as he tugs your hand, tugging you along the cobblestone streets pushing past other villagers— some looking at the two of you with disdain, others in envy and some in awe. Two young (well, one young) lovers hand in hand laughing— a perfect sight.

“I have quite the things planned for you,” he muses, squeezing your hand. You beam up at him, “Is that so? The anticipation is killing me!” He leans down, moving a stray strand of hair from your face and tucking it behind your ear with a tender smile (almost tender enough to make you forget what he truly is).

The day starts off with visiting the village bakery, where he buys you the treats that you mentioned you like. The delicious sweet bursts of flavour, butter, sugar and honey with a tinge of vanilla. Perfectly warm and crispy layers which breaks into a satisfying crunch as you bite down.

Followed by him dragging you along to the village market on the outskirts. Beomgyu always knew you enjoyed the various little trinkets and things they brought from other regions, whether it be useful for your occupation or something you personally enjoyed.

Both of you walk hand in hand admiring the various stalls. Pieces of rare jewels, rings and earrings, little bottles, utensils, charms, bowls, lamps, writing quills, cloaks— everything.

You gasp feeling the fabric of one dark blue cloak, “It’s so soft.” The merchant grins, “Fresh off the looks of the south, young lady. Wish to try it on?”

Beomgyu muses, answering before you could, “She would love to, isn’t that right? It’s your birthday, after all?” He glances at you taking the cloak. Beomgyu leans down, swooping the cloak around you, bringing it over your shoulders and hooking the clasp together, face inches from yours. Your heart races as you gaze at him; a dumb grin on your face.

“Birthday, eh? In that case I suppose I can shimmy the price down a little,” the merchant clasps his hands. Beomgyu gazes down at you with an expression of endearment, “You look truly lovely in this.”

“The young man‘s as right as rain, you look lovely,” the merchant gleams, “Now about payment…” Beomgyu and you deadpan as you mutter, “Oh of course. Should have known that compliment wasn’t genuine.” Beomgyu snorts.

You fumble with the clasp to take the cloak off and Beomgyu raises a hand signalling you to halt, as he places a small pouch on the wooden table. “I’ll give you half of what’s in here,” he bargains. The merchant takes a quick peek inside and grimaces, “I don’t know about that young man, this cloak is quite the-“

Beomgyu leans forward cupping his hand over the man’s ear as he whispers something and you see the man pale instantly. Your brows furrow as he abruptly takes the pouch pouring out half, counting the coins and the merchant beams waveringly, “Pleasure doing business with ya!”

Blinking confused, you question Beomgyu who seems to hum pleasantly leading you off. “Did you just pay for this cloak- you didn’t have to-“ He murmurs, “I wanted to.”

Your mind recollects the events and you muse dryly, “He changed his mind quick, what did you tell him?” Beomgyu leans down whispering into your ear, “I told him, I’d rip him limb from limb as soon as the sun sets and he closes up his stall.”

You stiffen peering up at him with a glare, “Beomgyu! I swear-!” The passersby look on at your scolding tone and he throws his head back laughing, “Oh, your expression- priceless!” He chuckles, “I was joking, sweet healer, no need to get in such a panic.”

Rolling your eyes, you scoff, “That’s what I thought. So what did, get him scared then?” Beomgyu muses, “You know the tavern I work at right? He’s a regular there. Drinks himself into a babbling fool every night after he closes up his stall here. Told him I’d make sure he’d never get a drink again.”

You sigh; of course that’s all it took for a drunkard to crumble. Shaking your head, you laugh breathlessly, “Seriously…you are something else.” Beomgyu smiles, “Yes, yes, I know little healer, I am a genius,” his expression becomes serious, “But really, I wanted to get you the cloak, you always mentioned how during your little expeditions to the forest, you would feel a little cold, so here. Secondly, I saw the adorable little sparkle in your eyes that you get when you really want something.”

You flush, were you that obvious? He took notice of all your little quirks and mannerisms with such ease? A touching warmth spreads throughout your chest, “Thank you, Beomgyu.” He grins, “You’ll have more to thank me for later, so hold off for now, okay?”

You both spend the day walking around the village enjoying each other’s company. It had been such a long time since you had felt such contentment, such…comfort.

As the sun melts into the horizon, he seems to joy dragging you with him as you pant. “Goodness, Beomgyu… I’m dying for breath here.”

He shushes you, “Oh come now, we’re almost there. You can hike all you want for your herbs but not for me, or for your birthday! This spot is one I’ve just recently discovered whilst hunting for deer.”

You grumble making your way up the faded path, pushing past the brambles and foliage, the steepness increasing gradually. After awhile, he finally pushes through some overhanging branches and vines like curtains and lets you go first.

Your jaw drops ajar as you see the sky, painted dark with sparkles of glitter— the stars. Twinkling and glimmering above. The last vestiges of subtle orange fading away into the horizon and the moon slowly shows itself behind the tuft of grey clouds.

You tilt your head down seeing the village from a slight distance away and you finally figure out where you both were. It was that small little set of cliffs nearby the village overlooking it. You’d never gone there before, fearing it was too much of a climb for you—especially alone. It wasn’t the highest cliff but just enough to see the village with its small hints of light from the houses.

“…so beautiful,” you whisper in awe as you sit down on the grass. Beomgyu sits behind you, you scoot yourself back— your back resting against his chest, elbows resting on his thighs. His head on your right shoulder and his strong arms around you.

The subtle sound of your breathing merges with the sounds of the breeze, rustling trees, the hooting owls, chirping crickets and low gargles of toads. It was simply amazing, so serene, so peaceful.

“I love this,” you softly say. Beomgyu mumbles, “I love this too. I figured you would like this spot. I only discovered it a few days ago, I never expected to bring you here— but it just struck me when I sat here two days ago. It would be the perfect way to end off the day.”

“It is,” you breathe, closing your eyes, “It really is.” A pause of comforting silence ensues and you smile, “Thank you for everything, Beomgyu.”

You crane your head to gaze up at him, seeing the gentle moonlight caress his visage in a hauntingly beautiful manner. “Thank you…for doing all this. I never thought any of this was possible for me.”

“Why?” He questions, “You are deserving of love, is everyone not?” Your eyes glisten, “Yes. Yes they are, but it’s unfortunate, this world. Not everyone gets the privilege of it. Of such tender love like this.” You both go silent. Beomgyu cups your cheek, thumb caressing your cheekbone, “Indeed. Sweet healer, it is as you said. Nevertheless, I am glad I have you.”

He litters kisses down your neck, “All mine.” Beomgyu nuzzles the curve of your neck, “I’m all yours, yes?” A breathy giggle leaves your lips as your hand reaches back up into his luscious brown locks, “Yes, Beomgyu. All mine.”

As you lay your head against his firm chest, you feel his arms leave your sides and your brows furrow going to turn around and he chides playfully, “Stay still, sweet healer. Always in such a flurry.”

“What are you-“ you ask only to see a glistening pendant dangle down in front of your vision before gliding down onto your neck as he fastens the clasp on the back of your neck. The cool metal makes the hairs on your skin rise; your skin prickles with shock and cold.

Your lips quiver as you fiddle with the small pendant. A simple black metal heart. You gaze back at him, eyes watering and spluttering emotionally, “Beomgyu, you already bought me that cloak- the baked good- you spent so much-“

Amused by your babbling, he shushes you softly, “Relax, relax…sweetheart. No need to fret, I had bought this necklace a month back. I had seen another man make a necklace for his wife. I had thought it was a good idea, seeing that you liked jewellery, but often wear the same few.” He touches the heart nestled just above your chest, “This way, you may be reminded of me, even when you go out on those trips of yours. Or when I am not around.”

You glance at his neck, empty. You pout, “I wish we could match.” Beomgyu sighs smiling, “Ah well, one necklace was quite the pretty penny, my lovely healer, so your dear lover must be without a matching necklace,” he muses leaning down, “For now that is.”

You coo, “Then it’s settled, on your birthday then.” Beomgyu smirks, the one you love very much. “Don’t even think about it.” You twist back around, “Too late, we’ll be matching soon enough, or at least before the end of next year.”

Beomgyu snickers, “Far be it from me, to dissuade you.” His hands rest back on your waist and you both continue in tranquil conversation. The air is hazy, flirty and warm; gentle touches and caresses become more daring, his hands sliding and groping gently making you writhe at a loss for breath.

His fingers glide along your bodice, his other trailing down your skirt, gathering up the fabric. Tensions rise, the pent up desire which lingered throughout the day, all bubbling up at once with the moon as your witness.

Beomgyu whispers, “I think one more gift should make things just about perfect, should it not?” You whisper back playfully, “Is that so? What were you thinking?”

He hums, fangs grazing your neck, hands becoming increasingly bold, “Something I know you like very, very much. So do I, in fact.” You reply breathily, “I see, then by all means…” you trail off.

As much as the two of you wished to embrace each other under the stars, secluded in this little haven, it seems nature had different plans. Your quaint little fear of random beetles alongside the mosquitos nipping at you were quite frankly spoiling the heated mood.

You huff as you both walk back grumpily down the path and he snorts, “Easy now, sweet healer, we can have so much more fun back at your place, no? No need to look so down.” You glance at him, sneakily murmuring, “You also looked rather disappointed, you know.”

Beomgyu shrugs, lips cracking into a stupidly wide grin as laughter tumbles out of him, “Well, it is a shame when we were just getting to the good part that a large beetle decides to fly in the midst of our passionate lip lock. That scream,” he cackles almost stumbling over a rock, “Oh- that was hilarious.”

Deadpanning, you rip away your hand with a huff, “Of course it was funny to you, it wasn’t attempting to land on you. Stupid thing. Couldn’t it see we were busy?”

He snickers, “Well, perhaps none of the creatures wanted a show.” You scoff, rolling your eyes as he grabs your hand again, “Tsk, don’t pout, sweet healer. I’ll make up for lost time,” his tone darkens deliciously as he nears your ear.

You both reach the village streets, most had retreated into their homes, of course due to the curfew and fear of the oh so terrifying vampire. The very vampire you were walking hand in hand with. The streets were most empty, a few stray cats and dogs running here and there, one or two people closing their windows.

A few eyes linger your way but nothing is said— they had most likely suspected that you were both returning home. You murmur, “Huh… it really is so quiet out here. Scary actually without a lot of the lights. Once everyone’s shutters are shut, it looks completely different.”

Beomgyu remains unfazed, “It’s alright.” You scoff, “You say that because you hunt at this time. Be it human or animal.” He smirks, “Well, what can I say? My vision is simply superior in the dark. It only makes sense.”

You snicker, “They’ve all gone to bed and shut their windows, because of you. This entire curfew is because of you. To think they’re all scared of you.” His brows furrow, “What’s that supposed to mean? You make it sound as though I am not a predator.”

You pause regarding him from head to toe and he huffs. “Maybe not to you per se, but I am a predator nonetheless.” You shrug walking ahead, intentionally provoking him, “I don’t see it. To be fair, when we first met you actually were a little bit scary, but now, you just seem so soft and-“

Before you could get the words out, you find yourself being tugged into the nearest alley between two houses, wrists pinned beside your head. Beomgyu’s eyes take on a dangerous otherworldly glow, he leans down, “Is that so? We can’t have you forgetting what I am, can we? I seem to recall you relishing when I sink my fangs into your neck and drink that sweet, sweet sanguine nectar, hm?”

You shiver, “So?” You challenge and he smirks devilishly, “Oh no, I meant nothing by it. You’ve always been a little different than your cowardly villagers. Twisted little thing, aren’t you? Not that I mind, of course.”

You tilt your head to the side, your hair falling away from your neck salaciously, you smirk to yourself seeing his gaze flit down to your neck. Beomgyu’s voice huskily hums, “Oh, I see what you’re doing.”

You feign innocence, “Hm?” Beomgyu hums alluringly, “Ah, wanting to get bitten? On your birthday too? My, my, sweet healer, you’re more depraved than I thought.”

Well, you couldn’t help it when it always felt so good— and it almost always led to a rather pleasurable outcome. You shrug, “I don’t know what you mean.” He parts his lips showing his fangs about to sink down before a loud clattering sound shatters the intense moment.

Beomgyu pulls away and you shakily place a hand over your palpitating heart. Wait. You shake your head clearing your mind. What the hell were you two thinking? You were both in public— the streets, whilst rather empty, were not completely free of people. Anyone could have passed by!

You clutch your head panic filling your system, “Beomgyu, we shouldn’t have been so reckless- we got so carried away and if it weren’t for that we’d have foolishly continued-“ you begin rambling. He holds your arms calming you down, “Hey, hey, sweet healer, easy now. Easy. No one saw us. Look?”

He pulls your reluctantly form out of the alley and points toward the crate of bottles that had been tipped over, “Just crate tipped over, probably some stray dog or cat. You know how it is. Look around, not a single person in sight.” Beomgyu squeezes your hands, “But you’re right, we were reckless. Let gets home, don’t worry, okay? We’re okay. We’re okay.”

You nod calming yourself. Thank goodness you didn’t let it continue into him biting down into you. You couldn’t take that chance of any passerby just randomly taking a glimpse in.

As you both arrive at your place, the door slams shut, impassioned kisses, giggles and embraces fill your room as you both wish to carry on where you left off.

As his fangs sink into your soft flesh eliciting a gasp from your lips, you feel the sensation of doubt creep in the back of your consciousness. A crate like that… could it really have been knocked over by a mere cat or dog? It seemed so heavy.

No…it was fine. Beomgyu showed you the empty street— you saw with your own eyes, not a single soul out there. So why were you anxious?

And so, you forcibly shove that thought back into the recesses of your mind, as your hands tangle into his hair as Beomgyu gulps down the heavenly sanguine.

It would be fine.

It would be fine.

That’s what you wish you could say. How wrong you were. The thought, that very thought about the crate being heavy— heavier than a small cat or dog could knock over.

You wished it had been a large dog or something of the sort. Not a person. You both had thought you had been sly, caught yourselves in the alley before you got too reckless.

But no, it was too late. It was too late when you heard the ruckus in the early hours of the morning. A grumbling roar of distress and anger outside your window. You sit up abruptly as you focus on the chants.

“Traitor! Scum! Come out! Come out! Vampire! Vampire!” Your heart drops. This had to be a nightmare!

Various other insults are thrown at your house by what you assume is a large gathering in front of your house ready to barge in at any second. You hear the clatter of metal and wood.

Beomgyu seems to be up already and you see him hastily getting dressed, lacing up his boots. You see the tension in his brow, the shaking of his hands, his shaky breaths. He glances up and he murmurs, “You’re awake. Oh, Y/n…” his voice cracks.

Instantly you find your eyes watering. Indeed, it seemed yesterday really was too good to be true. He rushes over cupping your cheeks, “Get dressed, my love. Look at me. Look at me,” Beomgyu grasps your chin, “I’ve got you. I won’t let anything happen to you okay?”

Tears stream down your face as you cover his hands with yours, sobs wracking your body, “Oh Beomgyu, I..” you can barely get the words out as you hyperventilate, “I’m… I can’t believe this— why- we were doing so well-“ He cups the back of your head pulling you in for a tight embrace. You hear the pain in his voice as he soothes you, “I know, I know. I thought…I thought we could keep it a secret too.”

As always, the universe had its cruel way of exposing any and all secrets one way or another. Two foolish lovers who had the gall to be happy with each other.

Beomgyu tilts your head up to meet his gaze and he firmly utters, “Stay focused. We…we need to get out of here.”

The roar of the crowd outside and clattering makes it difficult for him to focus. Your heart pounds as you get up hastily putting on your dress. He paces around, “I… I had thought it was a stray or something, I didn’t expect… someone to have watched us.” Beomgyu threads his fingers stressfully through his locks.

Clumsily, you lace up your boots and gaze at him. Cautiously you make your way to the shutters and ever so slightly peek down. A gasp escapes your lips and your knees buckle at the sight— nearly half the village there in front of your house chanting and roaring, pitchforks and torches in hand as the dangerous hue of dawn paints their faces.

They had one intention. To get rid of the vampire that lurked in the village, your lover.

And then get rid of you. A traitor.

Fraternising with…a demon, a bloodsucker.

“Open the door, herbalist and surrender willingly or we will break in!” A man’s voice bellows— presumably the village head. Quivering, you gaze at Beomgyu, who’s gaze has hardened. Even he looks unsure as to what to do.

He helps you stand with a hand and he finally speaks tensely, “Do you trust me?” You’re caught off guard by the question. Beomgyu repeats, this time more firmly, “Do you trust me, Y/n?”

You nod, the words, “Yes, of course,” leaving your lips breathlessly. He takes your wrist guiding you downstairs and you follow clumsily. You see your back door in the kitchen. Beomgyu snarls seeing them banging on it too— that route wasn’t an option.

Your entire house groans and creaks— any second they were about to barge in, rip him to shreds and do god knows what, to you!

Once again he leads you upstairs; grip borderline painful on your wrist and he opens the shutters wide making your eyes widen and the crowd’s chants fall silent. You stammer, “Beomgyu- what are you-“

Beomgyu’s gaze blazes fiercely into yours, “Take my hand.” You peer at his hand before taking it and he hoists himself onto your rooftop. He pulls you up effortlessly onto the rooftop and you scream as a roof tile falls below but he has you securely in his arms.

The crowds goes into uproar calling you terrible names, calling him a monster, you as his thrall. Panting, he commands, “We are going by rooftop, you hear me? Get on my back.”

He hoists you onto his back and you cling on dearly as he runs with superhuman speed, jumping across the rooftops on your street. The crowd’s roar increases as they follow along in pursuit. You close your eyes wishing to block all this out— you wish the entire earth would swallow you whole.

Why did this entire thing have to happen? Tears wet your cheeks again.

Rooftop to rooftop, he stumbles, patchwork nearly collapsing at one point, roof tiles going flying into the crowd below before he makes a risky jump onto the ground, you both fall to the floor rolling and you hiss in pain, the ground grazing your limbs painfully.

You barely have time to register your injuries as he roughly tugs you up, “Up, up, up!” You cry out as you push yourself to stand and you both run.

You hear the village head again, “Over there, by the arch! They’re headin’ out of the village! Men! Go, go, go!”

You weep and he snarls breathing heavily, “I’ve got you, healer, please, focus, focus for me. Just a little more, just a little- ah, more!” Your legs burn immensely, lungs searing for breath, wind flaps through your hair.

Over-exertion hits you, knees buckling and you sob, “Beomgyu, go- I’m only holding you back,” you cry out, “Just go-“

Anger is visible on his visage and enraged he snaps, “I’m not leaving you for them to punish you, you’re mine. You’re who I love, what lover would I be to sacrifice you for my own escape? Don’t be fucking stupid.”

You sob, shaking your head, “Beomgyu-“ In agitation, he hoists you onto his back and you yelp, clinging onto his neck, “Keep that mouth shut, got that? I’m not leaving you behind.”

With inhumane speed and agility, he winds his way through the trees. You realise where he’s taking the both of you, winding up the familiar harsh terrain. That spot on the cliff, notoriously hard to reach. The people would struggle and it would give you enough time to at least gather yourselves, see where you should head next.

You gaze behind, the crowd no longer in view, their sound growing fainter and fainter and soon you both stand in the same spot. The morning sun in full shine. You hug him tightly, “Beomgyu…” He hugs you back littering your forehead with kisses of desperation, “I know.” You whimper, “They’ll kill you. They’ll kill you, Beomgyu. I can’t…”

Beomgyu caresses the back of your head murmuring, “You don’t think it’s that easy, do you? I don’t die easy. Unless they have got silver or a huge stake, neither of which I saw in that crowd.” He peers down at you cupping your cheek, “Maybe garlic perhaps, the real weapon.”

Harshly, you smack his arm, sniffling, “Now’s not the time for joking.” He smiles painfully, “Alright, alright, but they’re definitely struggling up the incline that’s for sure. I don’t think they saw where we went, it’s hard to see in that dense foliage anyway. We have a little breathing room.”

You murmur, “I don’t want to risk it. We’ve got to get moving. Not everyone is going to give up so quickly, Beomgyu. There’ll definitely be a few who attempt to come up here. We’ve got to move.”

Beomgyu nods, gaze hardening, “Yes, if I remember, there’s another town just to the East,” he points out over a rocky outcrop, a faint path leading into some woods, he continues speaking, “We can’t stay there for long, they’re awfully weary of vampires in that town, but it’s ideal for a night’s stay. Then, in the morning, we can journey up further East. There’s a few more villages and towns that way—following the river. The further we get, the better. North is out of the question-“

As he speaks your gaze flits to behind him and you feel your entire soul leaving your body as you see a small glimmer in the foliage and before the scream leaves your mouth, the arrow coated in a metallic substance flies and swivels elegantly in the air.

You instinctively shove Beomgyu out of the way, almost off the cliff— the arrow missing him just enough to lodge itself into your neck. A choked gargle escapes your throat and you feel a metallic iron taste fill your mouth.

The village head scraped up and bruised tumbles out of the foliage with his bow in hand, a few more arrows ready.

Beomgyu freezes for a moment— gaze flitting between the village head and you. His lips part, but no breath escapes him. The village head bellows, “You foolish woman— that was meant for the vampire! No matter—“ He sheathes another arrow positioning it— but before he could even aim it, you see red.

Red, a lot of red. Your knees buckle. You gaze at the liquid dripping down your chest, a bloody mixture of silver and blood. Blood drips down your chin—- vision blurring.

Truly, you were a fool. Most of those in love were fools. He could have handled that himself, why did you play the hero? You didn’t know.

Your body just instinctively moved by itself. How stupid, to protect him. Protect what? A vampire? You knew silver was a poison— leading to deaths for vampires if not treated.

So? Did you really have to push him aside and get it shot in you instead?

You see more red, this time not your own. Your vision goes in and out of focus as you witness Beomgyu like you’ve never seen before.

Blood spraying, agonising screams, flesh tearing, bone snapping, disgusting squelches. You gather from the image in front of you, just how vicious your lover could be when he wanted to.

From the disheveled locks partially covering his gleaming dark red irises like some sort of veil of death to his hands covered and dripping in blood and god knows what else of what was left of the village head.

Beomgyu saw red and so did you. He killed right in front of you. Tore a man limb from limb. For you.

Tears drip down your face from the searing pain; you collapse onto your side making his head snap toward you, breaking him out of his bloodthirsty rampage.

Within seconds, he’s by your side cradling your weakened form, curses falling from his lips, enraged words aimed at the humans from the village. His voice cracks, “Oh my sweet, sweet healer, why? You are so…” he closes his eyes bellying his anger, “I told you, I could handle it. Handle everything. Why couldn’t you just sit back? Did you not think I…” he chokes up.

Beomgyu sniffles as tears run down his icy blood splattered cheeks, “You fool. You fucking fool, I can’t believe…” he clutches you, “Those fucking bastards, arrows coated with silver.”

You weakly gaze up at him, unable to move, unable to speak, not even a pitiful rasp. All you could do was stare up at his pretty face.

Perhaps, this was fate, you think. How it was meant to be, your consequences of mingling with the supernatural, not staying within your confines. He gazes at your neck and you see his red eyes darken, fangs glistening. You wonder, what was he thinking?

Finally, your vision goes dark— you don’t seem to be hurting anymore, rather you feel as though you’re wrapped in a cold embrace, on a winter’s night. Frigid, alone but painless.

As you go limp in his arms, panic surges in Beomgyu’s system, as he shakes you. He splutters, voice shattering, “No, no, no,” he pants out, “Wake up, fucking wake up.”

Beomgyu gazes down at your neck. He couldn’t let you go. He didn’t know… would you be content to die, or would you be happy to join him in his eternal prison of immortality?

He couldn’t ask you—- what would you want? Did you love him so dearly you’d be willing to spend an eternity with him? Was he delusional to think that way?

Was he selfish for what he was about to do? Would you hate him for turning you into what he was? He didn’t care. He wanted to see you alive, or alive in at least some sense of the word.

Was it a punishment or renewal? So, so many questions. But with each second, his chances of saving you were slim.

Thus, Beomgyu leans down, with a grimace he pulls the arrow out, blood spurting onto the grass. He whispers, placing a kiss atop your head, “I’m sorry, my dearest healer, for what I am about to do. Forgive me.”

With that, his fangs sink into the other side of your neck, as his hand cradles the back of your head. He gulps, downing every drop of your life source, the rich flavour he once craved now seeming horridly bitter. Tears roll down his face as he continues drinking and draining you of your blood.

Tormented apologies mentally scream in his mind as he resumes his onslaught. Would you hate him for this? Would you have preferred death?

Rustling occurs behind him but he doesn’t care. He had to drain you before the warmth left your body, before your systems shut off completely.

A few men poke their heads out of the foliage and stumble back mortified at the bloody scene, what was left of their leader, the sight of Beomgyu feeding mercilessly on what seemed to them as your corpse.

It was enough to have them running off, wretching and almost fainting. Let them run for now. He’d hunt down each one of them if this did not work out. Make everyone of these foolish villagers pay.

With a final grunt, he pulls away, gazing down at your lifeless body; stiff and pale. Only the tiniest hint of blood left in you.

Beomgyu grunts, taking your body into his arms and he begins walking, he needs to get you somewhere to rest, to be without stress or threat. Would you even wake up? He didn’t know, did he take too much? There had to be just enough left— he had never drained someone before, never turned someone.

If you did never wake up— he’d never forgive himself. Taking your blood on top of that for no real outcome. He shudders at the thought. No. You had to.

Hours pass, darkness, utter silence. Nothingness. The crackling of fire in the distance soon arises, a faint breeze brushing against your skin makes you writhe. One by one, you could feel your face, your limbs.

One by one, more and more noises around you pile up, layering atop one another, your senses fall back into place and you feel your chest grow not warm, but deathly cold.

Finally, as your lungs will with air, you inhale as deeply as you possibly could.

“Y/n! Y/n- oh my god, Y/n- you’re breathing,” a muffled voice resounds and instantly your eyes snap open. You sit up abruptly clutching your chest.

Your heart- wait, your heart.

You feel your chest as you pant raggedly for breath. No heartbeat. Your skin…no longer that comforting warmth. Your ears ring painfully and memories flood your consciousness as you groan clutching your head.

“Gently now, oh fuck, fuck, fuck, oh goodness, Y/n. My sweet healer, my love,” you hear the presence beside you call out cradling you in his icy arms. You glance up wearily and see him.

Choi Beomgyu.

His eyes glistening, a single tear drips down. He was crying. The orange hues of the crackling fire paint his face as he cups your cold cheek, “You’re alive. I… I didn’t think you’d make it. I-I thought I took too much.”

Took too much? You glance at your hands. You gasp— your neck! The arrow. You feel your neck feeling no scab, no injury. “My injury… Beomgyu-“ you stammer. He glances at you in silence as he takes your hands, “Y/n…I..”

Your body lacks warmth, your heart no longer beats, there’s a scratchy dryness in the back of your throat. Your horrendous injury, now, miraculously healed without so much as a scar or scab.

The pieces click into place forming an astounding conclusion. You whisper, afraid, “You…you, turned me?”

His silence has all the answers you need. You glance down at your hands, you were…alive. That meant you had experienced death.

He had brought you back…this time to the land of the undead. Of the immortal.

You were one of the same.

Beomgyu’s voice cracks, “You must despise me for making that choice for you. I… I couldn’t-“ he struggles to get the words out, “I couldn’t let you die. I couldn’t stand the thought of your life being taken.” He gazes at you with such a pained gaze, “I love you, I love you far too much to let you go, is that too selfish of me? Did I bring you back against your wishes?”

Your lips part, words not coming out, as you tremble, tears dripping down your cheeks at the impassioned words. He murmurs weakly, “Forgive me, my sweet healer, for being so selfish. You have all the reasons to despise me. But…I just couldn’t…couldn’t let you die.”

You sadly smile wiping away his tears with your thumbs, “I don’t hate you, you fool. You saved me.” His eyes widen, going speechless; lower lip quivering at your words. You sniffle with a wavering laugh, “I…I’m surprised, I… I would have never thought you’d turn me. I thought you’d never cross that boundary just because,” your voice cracks, “just because it’s me.”

He presses his forehead to yours chidingly, “I’d have no need to do such a thing if you did not play hero, you idiot,” he sighs pained, “Do you understand how horrible it was to see you bleeding out, life draining from your eyes? With an arrow meant for me? Not you?”

You cup his cheek nuzzling his nose with yours, “I know…I should have stayed down. I’m sorry for scaring you, Beomgyu.” He trembles, “I…having to drain you, I..” he murmurs shakily, “Never again. Never again.”

All of a sudden, Beomgyu embraces you tightly, his head in the crook of your neck, “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry I couldn’t protect you, sweet healer,” he breathes. You cup his cheek shakily, “You need not be sorry, Beomgyu. It was them.”

For a few minutes you stay like this, in each other’s arms, sat atop a log beside a fire. You gaze up at the forest foliage above, you had many questions as to how you got here, how long had you been out. But for now, you were simply content to be in his arms, with him.

Beomgyu whispers, “Your life…that you left behind, your precious little shop, my sweet healer. You left that behind because of me, I’m so sorry. We’ll… we’ll set up a new one elsewhere, far away. I’ll make sure of it.”

Your cold lips press a kiss onto his own before you wearily gaze into his eyes, “I know you will. But for now, Beomgyu. One step at a time.” You shift yourself to lean against his chest, “I feel tired.”

He hums softly, “Then sleep. I’ll be there for you when the dawn next comes. And the next, and for many more.”

You muse half deliriously from drowsiness, “Until the end of time?” A scoff leaves his lips at your audacity, not even having fed, a newborn vampire at best and yet…

Beomgyu smiles tenderly as he repeats in assertion, “Until the end of time, sweet healer. Until the end of time. Always and forever.”

Taglist:

@beomnioa @gyu-tori @immelissaaa @haowonbins @hyunelixbun @woncheecks @dalkom-han @tyongluvs @tubaturighthere @lun4mizuka @blazesimps @usuallyunlikelyfox

[cc-cobalt-1043]

Comforting words can go a long way (A sonic 3 oneshot):

It was late now at the Wachowski campsite, Tom, Maddie, Sonic and Knuckles had drifted off to sleep hours ago but despite his best efforts Tails couldn't sleep.

He could only think of one thing...Stone.

Tails couldn't think of why, but despite being Robotnik's lackey Tails had never thought of him as a particularly bad person, not only had he seemed genuinely horrified when he heard about Gerald Robotnik's plans for Earth, but the man had tried to shield him when Shadow attacked them...that had to count for something right.

After tossing and turning for a good while now and still unable to sleep he got up with a irritated huff and grabbed his backpack walking out the tent.

Sitting down near the now dead campfire he pulled out his Miles electric and tapped away at it.

After several minutes of tapping away he located Stone.

The man was located at Kings Cross Station in London, however according to the schedules no trains were departing for several hours and apparently Stone's signal had been stationary for a few hours now.

Deciding he needed to do something, anything to help the grieving man Tails pulled out a ring he'd been keeping for emergencies he threw it and stepped through.

London:

Stone was sitting on a bench at Kings Cross, the station was deathly silent, the usual trains weren't running at this time, Stone noticed several parked in the platforms but they weren't the reason for him being there.

He was looking up at the stars as well as the now damaged moon, he couldn't get his thought of the doctor.

People only saw them as two madmen but to him Ivo Robotnik was a friend...yes a very very flawed friend, but one nonetheless, the two having met back when Stone was in the military, the two having formed something of a partnerships, neither he nor Ivo had been able to figure out what they were and now they clearly never would.

"Erm, excuse me." A tiny voice said.

Taken by surprise Stone looked and saw the young Fox, Tails or something looking at him with a pair of bright cyan eyes.

Stone blinked not sure if he was hallucinating but after a moment he realised he mustn't be as the fox kit was still here.

"Not to be rude, but how did you get in here?" Stone asked.

"I used a ring, how did you get here?" Tails asked blinking innocently at him.

"That's for me to know and you to find out." Stone said simply.

He looked at Tails who simply stared at him.

"So what are you doing here...Tails was it?" Stone asked.

Tails nodded.

"Technically it's Miles, but you can call me Tails." Tails told him.

Stone nodded.

"So Tails, what brings you to merry old London?" Stone asked.

"I wanted to see you, make sure you were ok." Tails said.

"Oh I'm just fine, all lollipops and rainbows." Stone said bitterly.

"I may be a kid but I can recognise sarcasm you know." Tails said crossing his arms and looking at him with a pout that even Stone thought looked adorable on the kits face.

"Alright fine I'll level with you kid, I've just lost the man I loved over some stupid thing I barely know the details of, he was the first person who actually treated me with some level of respect after I withdrew from Afghanistan and yeah you know what, maybe he was kinda crazy, and maybe he was a bit of a jerk at times but we had each other and that was enough, I loved him kid and now without I'm completely lost and confused, do you have any idea what that's like Tails." Stone snapped.

He looked at the fox seeing his tails had wilted and ears drooped back and he frowned.

"Sorry kid, I didn't mean to go all dark and gloomy on you." Stone said.

"Actually I kinda get it, when I was younger I was always picked on for my extra tail and my smarts, even my own parents had abandoned me by the time I was three." Tails said.

Stone grimaced. "Wow, that's horrible." He said.

"Well I've been staying with Sonic, Knuckles and my mom and dad for a while now they took me in and loved me regardless of my flaws, but if I lost then I guess I'd feel like you do right now, I know it's probably not what you want to hear right now, I just want you to know I understand." Tails are.

Stone looked at the kid in front of him, he would be lying if he said the kid's statement hadn't resonated with his own lonely childhood.

"Sorry, didn't mean to give you my life story." Tails apologised.

Stone shrugged.

"No Tails, that actually did help, guess we have more in common than we thought." Stone said.

"I guess." Tails said.

Just then the Fox let out a very wide yawn, it was then Stone noticed just how late it was, he looked at Tails who looked absolutely exhausted, if he was right about how young the kit was he should have been in bed and fast asleep hours ago.

"You have a way home right?" Stone asked.

Tails suddenly realised he hadnt grabbed a spare ring and face-palmed when he realised his error.

Stone let out an amused snort.

"I'll give you a ride home, want me to carry you?" He asked.

"Tha---s." Tails said, the rest being drowned out by another almighty yawn and he climbed onto the mans shoulders.

Stone simply snorted again and made his way out of the station and towards crab-bot as Ivo had dubbed it.

Thankfully the streets were quiet even by London's standards so thankfully they got very few looks.

Stone wasn't sure when but at some point the kit fell asleep on his shoulders.

The Fox's soft snores echoed in Stone's ears as he walked and not even he could hide his smile at the child's innocence, expecially when the world seemed so determined to snatch it from him.

They got to the crab-bot and Stone set the snoozing fox down in the co-pilot seat, the kid shuffling slightly in his sleep using one of his tails as an improvised pillow.

Stone smiled at the adorable sight before setting course for Green Hills.

By the time they got there it was early morning and when they got to the campsite the Wachowskis were staying at Stone could see the kit's family looking for him.

They certainly weren't expecting to see Stone appear with said Fox snuggled up in his arms.

"Relax, I'm just bringing him home." Stone said seeing the alert looks on Tom, Knuckles and Sonic's faces.

He handed Tails over to Maddie who took the sleeping fox with a much kinder look than the others were giving him.

Tails let out a tiny yawn and groggily opened his eyes looking at Maddie with a sleepy smile.

"Hi mama." He mumbled sleepily cuddling into her.

"Hi pumpkin." Maddie cooed before heading to the kids tent with the exhausted fox, the two talking in hushed whispers.

Stone turned around and was about to leave when he saw Sonic in front of him.

"What were you doing with Tails?" The blue hedgehog demanded.

"Nothing, he came to me, we had a chat and he couldn't get home so I gave him a lift." Stone said truthfully, well he was hardly lying was he.

Sonic gave him a look but seeing no trace of a lie nodded.

"Well, thanks for bringing him back...and look I'm sorry about Eggman, yeah I didn't particularly like him, but he did the right thing in the end, and despite our checkered past...I guess I can respect him for that." Sonic said.

Stone nodded.

"Thanks Sonic...you've got a good brother there, take care of him." Stone said.

Sonic nodded and with a brief smile Stone climbed into the crab-bot and departed the Wachowski campsite.

[soupsyournatural]

Season 5 Lucifer: I'm fighting because I don't understand why the people I loved most abandoned me over a matter I feel so strongly about and I desperately need to prove why I still believe I'm right because I feel like it will validate my more questionable actions and maybe make my brother and Dad love me again because literally everything I do is about proving that I'm not the monster unworthy of their love that they made me out to be. I consider myself morally-superior and to represent justice on a level that everyone else is too brainwashed to realise is right. I truly believe I'm the good guy. I treasure my one true vessel as someone who was promised to me eons ago and promised to be the one being who would finally understand the way I think and why I do things because we're one in the same. We're two halves made whole whether either of us like it or not so as I've been alone for centuries Sam has been the only ray of hope I have clung to, not just for my own sake, but with pity knowing he is destined to suffer the same I have, so when we are finally together we can console and take comfort from each other with an understanding no one else in the universe will ever share.

Season 11 Lucifer: I do bad stuffs because I'm the big scary bad guy.

[lordkuntfuck]

Soulmate au where everyone has only one soulmate but it could be either romantic or platonic, though the latter is more common

Obviously Chimney and Hen are each other's soulmate, they were ecstatic when they found out cuz by that point they were already well on their way to becoming best friends anyway.

Maddie's soulmate was Daniel. When he died the soulmark stayed, she was happy to keep the reminder of him, but it just ended up being another thing she had to hide from Buck. When Buck finds out he's sad for her of course, but also silently devastated for himself because it's just another reminder that he was never meant to be apart of their family.

Bobby's soulmate was Marcy. Having a romantic soulmate is rare and finding them even more so. It was a miracle that they found each other. Losing her broke somehting deep within him. Without knowing it Athena helped fill that void, and though she may not be his actual soulmate, in his eyes she's as good as, even better in fact.

Athena thought her soulmate was Michael, their marks were really similar and she managed to convince herself that they matched. It took a long time for her to accept they didn't, even after she was with Bobby, and Michael found his match with David. She still hasn't found her real soulmate. But she has Bobby and he means more to her than any soulmate could anyway and she's happy

Eddie's soulmate actually was Shannon. They both believed it to be a romantic connection, since they were already dating when they realised. It took them both a long time to figure out it was actually platonic. Shannon asked for the divorce because she knew they would be better as friends, the universe literally said so. It took Eddie months of therapy to realise (he ended up needing more therapy to unpack all that)

Buck grew up thinking he didn't have a soulmate. From the day he found out about them to the day Maddie left him for the first time, he would spend every morning checking himself over for a soulmark that he might've suddenly appeared overnight. He knew everyone assumed his birthmark was his soulmark but he could just tell that it wasn't but he didn't know how to tell other people that.

It wasn't until the firetruck that he finally noticed the mark. With the fear of potentially not getting better, Buck had started checking his entire body for any signs of devolving injuries caused by the crush. Now that he was looking it wasn't difficult to spot.

It wasn't until the tsunami though that he realised he matched with Chris.

[scarletttries]

Baldur's Gate 3 Companions Love Languages (Baldur's Gate 3 Request)

Request: "hi! i loved reading your baldurs gate companions in love headcanons, i wanted to ask would it be okay if you wrote headcanons for what their love languages would be? or just how they would show love to their partner? thank you!"

Pairings: Astarion x Reader, Wyll Ravengard x Reader, Gale Dekarios x Reader, Shadowheart x Reader, Karlach x Reader

Author's Note: Thanks to everyone who sent in requests and reblogged my last Baldur's Gate post! Consider me open for any BG3 requests, let me know if you want to see more pieces like this :)

Astarion:

- Astarion has always had a way with words, and there's no exception in the way he sings his praises of you. He is quick to tell you how you have won his favour, how he prefers you to any of his other travelling companions, how he looks forward to the moment you open your eyes each morning. He will come up with a thousand sweet pet names to lavish you with affection, her purring voice leaving no trace of doubt that he doesn't mean exactly what he says. And he takes a certain sick satisfaction in describing all the things he wants to do for you the moment you are left alone together, and watching the blood rise up to your cheeks, only making you more appetizing.

- After years of what felt like indentured servitude, Astarion always feels himself falling only more deeply in love when you do him little favours and acts of service. He never stops being surprised when you've set up his tent for him because he could tell he was battle-worn this evening, or when you fetch him a cup of wine before he's even realised he was actually quite thirsty. He's never had someone know him well enough to anticipate his needs, let alone selflessly step up to deliver those things wanting nothing in return but to see him happy and at ease. He can feel himself grow more trusting and open of you with every kind task you undertake.

Wyll:

- Wyll has lived a life subject to many stories, and finds himself weaving a new tapestry of tales with his Words whenever he speaks to you. A simple good morning is never enough, he must soliloquise on and on about the way it feels to wake beside you, and how each ray of sunlight captures your beauty in a thousand different ways. He will wax poetic as you stroll through the lands, letting you know exactly what he admires about you, and exactly what your future adventures together would mean to him. He wants nothing more than to tell you the story that he sees the two of you writing together, every sweet word just another reminder that there's never been anything more important to him than you.

- You can show Wyll how much you care about him by just being there and sticking by for all the quality time he needs. This may include a lot of listening to the heartbreaking tale of his father's scorn, and sitting in supportive silence as he tries to let go of some of the weight he has carried on his shoulders thus far. You also need to be willing to put in the time to learn a dance or two, the retracing of steps bringing warmth to Wyll's heart and flooding him with all the brightest memories of his childhood. And when the dances have your bodies twisting closer and closer then Wyll has another idea of how you can spend some quality time together.

Gale:

- While Gale does see himself as a man of adventure, he is first and foremost a scholar of the magical arts and that requires a certain amount of Quality Time spent with his books. As he makes space in his life and heart for you, he views his time with you as equally precious. He loves that you two can sit quietly next to each other reading for hours, or just swapping stories of your adventures. He knows if the gravity of it all is getting on top of him, he can pass an easy day resting his head in your lap while the two of you discuss what the future could hold for you, giving him reason after reason to keep on fighting and never surrender to ache in his chest. On the rare occasions that Gale has to spend the day away from you, prepare yourself for the most dramatic reunion you can imagine when he returns - sweeping you into his arms, ready to cling by your side as he tells you everything you missed while being apart.

- Gale has heard and read a lot of pretty words in his time, knowing they are often not to be trusted in their intended meaning. So rather than telling Gale you care, you find it much more effective to just show him with your touch. He's a needy boy at the best of times anyway, but with a gentle caress of your fingers over the nape of his neck you can render the chatty wizard speechless and completely entranced. It's difficult to overstate how much of Gale's day he spends thinking about when it all grows dark and finally he can retire into your bed roll and feel your skin pressed against his, feeling completely safe and content in your company.

Shadowheart:

- Despite having little to offer and no intrinsic idea of an item's value, Shadowheart finds herself compelled to offer you small gifts and tokens of affection as you travel together. It might be an especially well aged bottle of wine picked up while exploring some abandoned castle, a bottle she hopes the two of you can share as the sun is setting that night. It might be a resilient flower she sees sprouting from a hillside, she can't help but tuck it behind your ear and marvel at the way it draws out the highlights in your eyes. A cup of water from a glistening stream, a smooth pebble plucked from the shore, a sweet handful of berries found deep in a thicket. Her hand is constantly extending out towards you, with some small reminder that you are never far from her thoughts.

- So much of Shadowheart's life has a been shrouded in dishonesty and mystery, so when you speak to her with only kindness and truth she comes to really value those Words of Affirmation. Giving her your honest opinion, and letting her talk through whatever moral quandary is playing on her mind, will strengthen the deep understanding you share and remind her of the way you give her something no one else has before. Let her know you're thinking of her too, that you care about how she's doing, and you like her no matter what version of herself she is becoming, and Shadowheart will continue to open her heart and mind to you again and again.

Karlach:

- Karlach has always been a helpful soul, even if she's been misguided in the past about who she's been helping. So her favourite way to show you she cares is through Acts of Service, doing little tasks for you and reinforcing that your life will just be easier if you keep her around and ideally very close by. She is particularly happy when she gets to do something for you that doubles as an excuse to show off her statuesque build; reaching something off a high shelf, lifting some heavy boulder out of your way, carrying you in her arms when the day has been long and there's still a journey ahead of you. She feels like she needs to improve your life in all these tangible ways in order to let you know just how appreciated you are, even though it would be impossible to ever feel like you were being taken for granted by this loving soldier.

- After decades of burning ultimately hot because of the infernal engine in her chest Karlach has become used to being a certain level of touch-starved. But when you first celebrate her mended heart by throwing your arms over her shoulders, all that need and want come flooding back in a landslide and Karlach is sure she'll never be able to stop squeezing you again. Show Karlach love through physical affection and this fierce warrior will be melting like a puddle into your lap at the slightest touch. Wake her with a hug each morning, let her fingers grip your hand as you explore the treacherous world, squeeze her thigh as you settle round the campfire each evening. Remind her you're there, and let her cling to you in a way she has always craved, and you'll have a very happy Barbarian on your hands.

[ameliathornromance]

“Really (Y/N), look at this!” Your Siren boyfriend flapped his netted tail, spitting salty seawater into your face, as you worked to try and untie the net from around his fins.

Pausing in your work, you wiped your lips on your sleeve, your boyfriend sighed, cupping his face with his hand. “It’s fine that you all want to eat fish, it’s why we farm them the way we do, but at least pick up after yourselves!”

“Well… that’s why I do what I do,” you mumbled as you returned to unknotting the plastic rope.

If someone had told you a year ago, that you would be working on trying to free a Siren from the confines of an abandoned fishing net, you would have laughed in their face.

It was a ridiculous notion; Sirens weren’t real. Even if they were, it’s not like the charity you worked for would specialise in cleaning them up. Sirens were, by all accounts intelligent and – from your experience – seemed to be very good at not getting trapped by rouge plastic.

The charity only worked on helping animals who’d been caught up in freak oil spills and plastic that had been thrown into the ocean. Usually, you helped seagulls, pollock, mackerel, sea bass, halibut, tuna. You know, the regular creatures you find at sea.

Not giant half-man-half-fish things that got caught up in a net every month.

And it was always at the same time too, every Wednesday afternoon when you were doing your beach garbage patrol-

At that realisation, you stopped trying to undo the net. “Hey.” You said, sharply.

The Siren, who had been picking at the sand underneath his claws froze and looked at you, “yes bubbles…?” His voice trailed in a sing song.

Oh, so he knew he was in trouble. “You know I tell you to avoid these things,” you turned your head around to look at him, eyes narrowing. “You know what they look like, how dangerous they are to you and the rest of the ocean…”

As the edge grew in your voice, your Siren boyfriend seemed to shrink with each inflected syllable. “So why,” you glowered. “In God’s green earth, do you always end up caught in them?!”

If it weren’t for the fact that your boyfriend knew he needed to be set free of this net, he would have sunk back into the ocean below the docks you sat on, and given you his innocent puppy eyes he gave his victims.

He tried it then, big yellow eyes widening.

“Nu-uh, don’t give me that look you know you’re not supposed to be doing this!” You pointed a finger at him accusingly.

Casting a look down at his tail, he sighed. “I know.”

“You know I’ve got other animals to look out for as well right? You can’t be taking up all my time like this.” You sighed, “this is, what, the eighth net I’ve had to free you from?”

“How would I see you then?” The Siren asked.

Words caught in your throat, “w-what?”

Your Siren sighed, giving a slow swish of his tail, “I feel like the only time I ever see you is when you’re working. And even then, I can’t approach you and speak to you, because of the other people you work with.” He frowned, “… this is the only way I feel like I can see you, it’s not like I can call you on that weird metal block you have.”

He made the shape of your phone by shaping his thumbs and index fingers into Ls and joined them together at the tips of his fingers to make a rectangle shape.

Pursing your lips, you thought about what he’d said. Going over the past few months in your head, you understood what he meant.

There had been a huge oil spill a few months ago and the company who was responsible for it was run by a selfish old fart who refused to pay for the clean up, and only did so when the Government forced his hand.

Luckily, the workers who were responsible for the oil spill, had been more than willing to help in their spare time, and worked hard to clean up fish as well as pick up any plastic waste they found.

You had been stuck with training them, as well as trying to clean up reluctant seagulls and any other kinds of animals which had been caught up in the toxic hydrophobic liquid.

Gripping the loose net in your hands, you sighed. “...I’m sorry about that. I hadn’t realised that I’d been spending more time away from you. It’s just because of that oil and the new volunteers-”

Your Siren furrowed the skin above his eyes. “I understand why, bubbles. But, if we could make some kind of agreement to meet up regularly… that might work for the both of us. I could hide out and wait until you came, and you could come whenever you’ve got the time and we can see each other then!”

You smiled at that. “That sounds like a great idea. How about sunset every Friday? It would be nice to be able to see you on the best day of the week.”

The Siren returned your smile, long, pointed teeth in his mouth. “Okay! As long as you can make it every time.”

“I swear I’ll be able to.” You frowned, “why didn’t you just ask me to do that instead of doing this?” You held up the net.

Your Siren’s smile fell. “I… didn’t want to make a difficult decision for you. The ocean is important to the both of us, and I didn’t want to impede on your mission to help it so…”

“Choosing between you and work, will never be a difficult decision.” You told him firmly. “Both are important, but I value our relationship. It’s thanks to you that I’ve been able to pull out so many fishing nets from the ocean.” You held up the net, and your boyfriend gurgled out a laugh.

“I’ll keep bringing you more if I find any.” And with that, he shook his tail. And just like that, the net came loose and he was free.

You stared, shocked.

At your expression, your Siren gave a mischievous grin. “What? It’s not like I could have gotten here with it on my tail now, is it?”

Hi! Thank you so much for reading my story! If you like this kind of content, you should check out my Patreon! There, I post stories twice a week and earlier than I post on Tumblr. I also post exclusive stories there too where you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

If you’re not sure about signing up, I have a 7 day free trial enabled so you can see if you like my work written there!

Taglist <3

@sunndust @greenie-c

[toni-robyn]

I take it that you live in the USA, do me a favour and realise one thing….not once have I mentioned people of colour…you have. For all you know I might be texting you from Zimbabwe or Russia. I might be black for all you know. I don’t see or judge people because of the colour of their skin, I am not a racist and I have lots of white, black, coloured who I call friends. I judge people on how they treat others so it doesn’t matter to me if you are black, white, pink, yellow, green, blue, indigo or violet. You have red blood running through your veins, capable of rational thought.

Have you seen 1st hand racial violence?….i have and it’s sickening, I have seen and witnessed ethnic groups and tribes hate each other for no reason other than the fact they can and believe that each other are not human.

You on the other hand, the way you come across, sound like a total ignorant racist!!!!

When it comes to the countries in Africa, unless you have actually lived there and experienced life there as I have for over 35 years then please zip your lips. Quoting to me about what other people have said means nothing, you need to live and experience life in the real world, have no food, no clothing, no employment and no money, no shelter let alone a house!!!

The same applies to the Middle East conflict. Read and learn your history about Israel, the Palestinian people and how they have been used and brainwashed to be totally anti Semitic. Arab countries such as Iraq, Yemen, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Libya and especially Iran have sworn to annihilate Israel not just off the map but to kill every single living Jew in the world. You probably owe your existence to Israel, they have contributed so much to the world since 1947 in science, biology, horticulture, technology, human rights and such. They are the current leaders in having people winning various Nobel prizes. They are the only country in the Middle East that has accepted people of any religion and are free to practice their faith without fear. There is no racial, sexual discrimination. You cannot say that for any Arab state. Most Arabs say they would love to live in Israel but just follow the propaganda of their government to avoid being imprisoned or having their heads cut off. Lebanon, Jordan and Egypt have so much to thank Israel for, they know it, so they keep neutral as much as possible. Israel controls the Golan Heights for a very specific reason, that’s where all the water for Jordan, Israel and Syria stems from. Syria had control but Israel took control because they were threatening to cut the supply to Jordan, Israel and would have wrecked the supply to their own country. Israel allows water to run freely into all these countries and the world accuses them of genocide.

Hamas and Hezbollah are terrorist organisations who want nothing more than to kill all Jews in any way possible, they have sworn to die in trying to kill Jewish people because they have being brainwashed in believing that the Jewish nation are nothing but scum and cockroaches and are to blame for everything that is bad or has gone bad in the world.

It boggles me to see you write down that you support terrorists, blood thirsty murderers who kill without cause or justification and please don’t say it’s because the Jews treat them so badly or kicked them out of their homeland. The peoples of Palestine were nomadic wonderers up until about the 1800’s when they lived in peace with the Jews who were living together in the land now called Israel. When Israel claimed independence in 1947, they offered 70% of the land to the Palestines…they refused. Land has been offered to the people of Palestine on 5 different occasions and every time it was rejected. All the aid sent into Gaza currently m, virtually all of it comes free from Israel. It is pillaged by the Hamas and sold to Palestinians for money they do not have and yet it’s meant to be free supplies to all. This includes medical help as well. It’s a well known documented fact that the UN have pro Hamas people working for them, some of them are known and wanted terrorists. Go figure!!

What did the Jewish nation do to warrant 6million citizens being wiped off the face of the earth in WW2, what did the Jewish nation do to be murdered, raped in the Russian pogroms in the 18th and 19th century, what did the Jewish nation do to be under the cosh of the Spanish Inquisition where hundreds of thousands if not millions of Jews along with thousands of innocent people were tortured to death and burnt alive at the stake. Through the centuries, the Jews have been persecuted, murdered and blamed for virtually every atrocity in the world and have been killed for it. October 7th, the nation said “NO MORE” babies were beheaded, children raped and sodomised, families wiped out. Not even animals do that.

As much as you are for and support known terrorist organisations, support their brutal campaigns of murder and destruction, I support Israel and their struggle to survive and to live free and in peace.

You don’t have to believe me if you don’t want to, but go through the history, research and find out.

98% of all wars in Africa are tribal, black against black….no whites, coloureds, Indians or any nation were involved. All political wars in Africa stem from unsolved tribal conflicts which have hit out of hand. One side always asks for help from foreign governments and in return they offer the countries mineral wealth as payment….you don’t believe me, but look at Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Congo….the Chinese have virtually taken over, all because they supplied the puppet government with weapons. The exact same thing has started in South America and South Africa.

[bullet-prooflove]

I'll show you how a real queen behaves,

Tagging: @kmc1989 @trublu2u @yousigned-upforthis @gatefleet @pansexualhailstorm

Companion piece to:

Texas - Travis and you make a realisation about your relationship.

Wyoming - Travis's mother calls Rip to get her son under control.

Your first time back in the saddle, you’re fucking phenomenal. Travis watches from the stands in a shitty little rodeo in Wyoming as you guide Artemis around each of those barrels with a precision that would make the current world champion curse your name.

“Is this some fucked up way of torturing me?” He spits at Rip, his gaze firmly fixed on the way your hair catches in the wind as you spur Artemis into a gallop. “Show me how well she’s doing without me in her life?”

“No.” Rip states flatly. “I’m making sure you keep your promise.”

Travis’s head jerks towards the other man so hard it makes his head fucking spin.

“She told you about that?” Travis says and Rip shrugs his shoulders.

“Not me, Imogen.”

When you’d first started talking about getting back out there on the rodeo circuit, he’d made a promise that he would be at your debut, that he would be in the stands cheering you on. You’d been so anxious at the time, unsure of yourself and he’d wanted you to know you had someone fighting in your corner.

There’s no trace of that woman here now. You sit up on that horse like a goddamn Queen and the crowd goes fucking wild when your score is announced because there isn’t a chance in hell any other rider can beat it.

“You should know that she’s seen the video, the one that’s been doing the rounds.” Rip informs him as he takes a sip of his beer. “You are one dumbass motherfucker.”

The video was taken a few weeks ago in Kansas City. It features him, two barrel racers and a bottle of top shelf bourbon from one of the finest distilleries out there. He hadn’t even realised the damn thing had been recorded until he’d gotten the clip from his buddy out in Tulsa along with a high five emoji.

“She thinks you’ve moved on, that you don’t love her anymore.” Rip tells him as you take a victory lap around the arena. “And after seeing that I can’t say I fucking blame her.”

His stomach twists at the thought of you watching that video, his cock thrust in someone else’s mouth, while her friend licked whiskey from his chest. He knows that it must look like he’s having the time of his fucking life but honestly he’s in fucking crisis. The only time he’s not thinking about you is when he’s black out drunk, sprawled across the sheets in some stranger’s motel room.

“Is that why you brought me here?” Travis asks him as he cradles a cold beer bottle against the cheek that Rip sucker punched. “So I can tell her otherwise?”

Rip raises his eyes skyward as if praying for strength.

“I brought you here so you can see exactly what you’re missing. You made a bad call by letting her go, you and I both know it, it’s why your spinning out so much.” Rip informs him as he watches you trot right out of the arena. “You need to get your head straight and fix it.”

“If it was that fucking easy don’t you think I would have done it by now?” Travis snaps back at him. “I still live in Texas and she still lives in Montana, I run a fucking business…”

“Don’t start pulling that shit on me.” Rip scolds him, shaking his head vehemently. “We both know you run that shit from the road. This about you being too fucking scared to take the next step, to actually make a commitment, that’s what you’re mad about.”

Travis doesn’t know what to say to that because Rip’s right. That’s where all this insanity is coming from. The guilt that he’s the one that fucked up your relationship, that he let you think it was you’re fault for not being able to settle in Texas.

“You’re a fucking asshole.” Travis says finally and Rip shrugs his shoulders again.

“Truth hurts don’t it?” Rip says taking another sip of his beer.

Yea, Travis thinks as they watch the next contestant step into the arena. It fucking does.

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Like My Work? - Why Not Buy Me A Coffee

[witsserviceablesubstitute]

If The Magicians taught me anything it's that two of their same sex leads could have sex, spend a lifetime together raising a child, have one actively ask out the other, and it all still be largely interpreted as a bromance. I suppose it could be, but only with an admittance that the boundaries around love and sexuality are not as solidly defined as they're perceived to be. Which is not something you're typically going to get from either the text itself or those that deny the very possibility of two male friends being in sincere romantic love with each other.

In all honesty, a tv production playing around with homoeroticism is likely doing so without malice. It can be a writers room being intentionally flexible with gender and sexuality and coming up against industry standards and practices. Or, and more often, a developing conversation between a queer fandom that finds meaning within the text (and easier access to the writers and actors), and a production encountering queer theory through that fandom for the first time.

That is to say I've been watching Supernatural again because I don't have a good relationship with the series and maybe this is something I need to get over. Supernatural means a lot to people here and I dislike the trend I see of treating a popular queer interpretation with dismissal and disdain.

If Supernatural has taught me anything in the past few years it's that one part of the biggest ship in the last decade can say he's in love with the other part of that big ship (to his face), and it still be interpreted as a confession of platonic love. To me the confession is clear in intent. Castiel is canonically in love with Dean Winchester, and through falling in love with Dean falls in love with humanity. Castiel's confession is actually a rather inevitable and lovely realisation of his character trajectory, even if I don't believe Dean knew what he was asking when he asked a creature made for unconditional devotion to have faith in him instead of heaven and God. What's more, a character being in love with their friend is not a failing, nor rare, it happens all the time in fiction, but I do think Castiel could have passionately kissed Dean goodbye in that scene and it still be considered the culmination of a bromance. So stubborn is the denial, dismissal, and disdain.

I like Eric Kripke. There's something modernist about his themes— a deliberate breaking of the romance of the past. A reflection of dysfunction, of things falling apart. In Supernatural it's in his building the family unit only to destroy the family unit using Christian mythology. In The Boys it's in his satirizing of the American myth using an American power fantasy (superheroes). There's also a bit of Jack Kerouac and the Beat Generation about what he creates and how he creates it, a hectic homoerotic masculinity that both indulges in and is critical of the darker sides of human nature. It's therefore unsurprising that there's such a strong queer reading of his work and of Dean Winchester in particular. So while it's absolutely fine to say, 'i don't interpret the text or character this way', it's less fine to try and erase every possible queer interpretation of the text and characters.

US TV networks are concerned with alienating their conservative audience with overtly queer main characters, especially when it subverts hegemonic forms of masculinity. But it has always been something queer fandom is fixated on— that subversion of both toxic masculinity and heteronormativity. It's why I think Supernatural has, not only the most fanworks written for it on AO3, but a large body of academic articles about its relationship with gender, religion, and sexuality. A queer reading is definitely there and it doesn't deserve the disdain or dismissal.

[hannah-snow]

I grew up in a house church, reading stuff by the Plymouth Brethren writers, and I think that @ray-moo's hot take is absolutely right.

Now let's add two more things to the conversation: house churches, and congregations who have to rent a space in the community center somewhere.

In my experience, house churches represent two things: primitivism, and family. Generally the rationale for house churches, among people who do it deliberately, is that this is the New Testament pattern. We know that early Christians did meet in synagogues, but that they also - very often - met in each other's houses. So there's that.

But I find, in my experience, that the practice of a house church reinforces the experience of the church as a family. When I was growing up, my parents had several church meetings a week at our house, and we regularly visited another couple for Bible study. The result was that I considered most members of the church to be literal extended family which I didn't have to hide things from, or put on any kind of show for. Why would I? They were family, after all.

And it also helped reinforce, to me, that Christianity is something that needs to be practiced at home, in the family; not just 'at church on Sunday' - because the church was my home, and it was my family.

Then when I went to university, I lived in church-sponsored communal living, which is a fancy way of saying that they facilitated several single sisters to live together by putting them in contact and helping us find a flat. We paid, made our own rules, and it was understood that we would host meetings.

I soon found out that this really did make the church our family, and that it improved the family life of the sisters' house. I had to hoover every week and clean the bathroom every week before the University Students' Bible study - not because I had anything to hide, but because I wanted to make things pleasant for them, should anyone need the bathroom. I wouldn't have done it otherwise; I would have let the bathroom grow mould and hair. So I found out that having the church in your house was an incentive to keep the house in order; both the physical side of it, and the familial relations. Note that I wasn't related to either of the girls who lived with me at this time, but we were still a family, and not just because we called each other sister. We were a family because we were literally living together in the church.

Now. Onto the 'rental guys' congregation.

Most people have the luxury of only renting one place every week. But my parents can remember a time, when the congregation got too big to fit in someone's house on Sunday, where they all had to rent - a different place every week. Cue all the jokes about the tabernacle and 'we're living a life of the altar and the tent like Abraham!'.

The renting and the moving around made us realise that we had to pay attention to where we were going, that we couldn't just rely on routine - and that we are wanderers and pilgrims in this world. This world is not our true home.

Roman Catholics and Orthodox have got to knock it off with "Protestants have brutalist corporate churches". A particular modern strain of Protestantism has hideous modern churches. It's a depressingly common strain, and arguably the dominant one in America, but it's either ignorant or dishonest to pretend as though all Protestants have ugly churches.

Behold:

Clockwise from top left:

St. Peter's Church, Geneva, canton of Geneva, Switzerland (Swiss Reformed)

Barnes Methodist Church, London, England, UK (Methodist)

Dutch Reformed Church, Newbury, New York state, USA (Dutch Reformed)

St. Jude's Church, Glasgow, Scotland, UK (Presbyterian)

[rainydayathogwarts]

Unregistered vehicle - Jim Hopper

summary: When Hopper interrupts a sleepover because of your unregistered vehicle, he is forced to take you to the station to complete some paperwork. wc: 2.3k+

Loud giggles on the other side of the front door have Hopper glancing down at his watch with a tired sigh. He could absolutely not deal with excited teenagers at this ungodly hour. The door swings open and you stand there with a wide smile. Clad in your tiny pyjama shorts and revealing tank top that allows everyone a view of your nipples, waving money in the air, you're clearly not expecting the Chief of Police to be standing at your door. Your hand drops down to your side and Hopper hears your disappointed mumble of "You're not the pizza guy." There's a long silence before your eyes widen and a quiet gasp leaves you. Quickly realising what you look like, you scramble to find a blanket or a jumper to cover yourself in, nearly slipping from the fluffy socks you're wearing before returning to the front door, with a hoodie halfway down your chest. It almost manages a smile out of Hopper. Almost.

"Chief!" You breathed out, smiling nervously. Hopper doesn’t know why you’re being so formal, the two of you were more than well acquainted with each other. "How can I help?" Hopper glances behind you into the unfamiliar house, where Nancy and Robin have paused their conversation to observe your interaction. He thought you lived on the other side of town, with your rich parents who leave the city every other week for business trips. Not here. Smiling ineptly at the two girls in the house, he turns his attention back to you. Nancy and Robin are frozen in place, and Hopper realises they are similarly styled to you. He's definitely more interested in your outfit than their's, taking a quick glance at what's exposed of your legs. He must have interrupted a sleepover. He sighs again. "Are your parents home?" You smile proudly, stating "There are no parents in this household, Chief." The man's eyebrows furrow. Tonight could not get more confusing. "What do you mean?"

You give him a moment to look around the inside of the small house. He's not surprised that there are no parents in the household, especially not yours. They'd probably have a heard attack if they saw this place. There's one couch in the living room, and your friends are sitting on a mattress that should probably be in the bedroom. The living room and open kitchen are completely bare, with the only other piece of furniture in the house being a television sat on the floor, connected to a single plug. Oh, and three glasses of wine and a half empty bottle. There's an open door leading to another room, where he can spot a few boxes strewn on the floor. "I've moved out. Want to join the housewarming party?" Hopper's face twists into one of confusion, and he asks "Isn't it dangerous for a young woman to be living all alone out here?" You shake your head with a 'nuh-uh' "Not all alone. It's me and Robin." You grin at the unfazed look on his face "Roomies!" Hopper reaches into his pocket to pull out a cigarette, lighting it up instantly. Your energy always makes him require a smoke, whether it be on a regular Tuesday night, or fighting demodogs with him in the woods.

"Well, there's a car outside that needs to be registered. I'm assuming that's you?" You nod sheepishly at the Chief's words. "I was going to do that first thing tomorrow morning, I swear... Jesus, it's warm in here." Hopper steps back as you quickly undo the covering up you had worried about so much, eyes widening when he finally gets to take a proper look at you. You look back to the girls in the room, pulling an annoyed face at them, and shut the door so that you're stood outside with Hopper. You cross your arms over your chest, looking up hopefully at the cop. "Well?" "I could fine you for this." You feel the blood drain from your face, and quickly throw your hands up, begging "No, come on Hopper! Do you know how expensive moving is? And having to- to get furniture!?"

The man in front of you laughs, nodding his head. "Look, if we go get it registered now, everything will be fine." He sees the way your face drops, an unimpressed look gracing your features. “Hop, come on. You know me! Can’t you just let it slide?” You whine, and for a second, the cop considers letting it go. But he’s already been too lenient with you in the past. "Won't even take thirty minutes and I won't fine you!" You make a show of throwing your head back with a groan before mumbling "Fine" and turning around to step into the house, sliding your feet into slippers, grabbing your jumper and following the Chief out your house without a single word to the girls in your living room.

The drive to the station is quick, the car filled with a comfortable silence. Hopper parks carelessly and you follow him outside, where he stomps his cigarette on the floor, and into the station. You're reaching to pull your jumper over your head when you notice how empty it is inside. You don't bother with your hoodie, holding it limply at your side, walking into the near empty station and into the Chief's office. Sitting down on a chair in front of Hopper's desk, you slip your feet out of your slippers, pulling your feet up on the chair and hugging your legs close to your chest. Hopper sits at his desk, opening and closing random drawers. You hear the shuffle of papers and rest your chin on your hand, watching lazily as he finally pulls out some very official looking paperwork.

Hopper begins scrawling things down on the paper and you stand up, rounding his desk to watch what he’s writing over his shoulder. One of your hands rests on Hopper’s big shoulder, the other one laid flat on the desk. You squint, unable to read his messy hand writing. “Okay!” Hopper announces, turning his chair to look up at you when he freezes. His eyes widen, and he takes his time looking over your revealing attire. “Sweetheart, you’re gonna freeze.” You shake your head, mumbling an “It’s fine.” and gesturing to your hoodie, but Hopper has already stood up, removing his sheriff’s jacket to sling it over your shoulder. He guides your arms into the big sleeves, ensuring your warmth before turning back towards the paperwork.

“Ooh, stylish.” You giggle, catching your reflection in the office window. You spin around, hands sunken in the pockets, and Hopper huffs at the sight, trying to hide his amusement. “Jesus, come… y/n, come sit down!” You mumble something under your breath, and begin approaching him again. Hopper raises an eyebrow at you when you stand next to him, gesturing for him to move his chair back. He listens, and is about to stand up, making a comment about ‘young audacity’, but instead, you plant yourself straight on his lap. Hopper’s eyes go wide, and his hands fly up as he tries to make sense of the situation.

You hum, leaning forward to read through the papers in front of you and your ass pushes back just right against Hopper’s cock. The older man nearly groans, but he holds himself back, listening closely as you ask “So what do I need to fill out?” Hopper gulps loudly, leaning forward to point specific slots out on the sheets of paper in front of you. You don’t hold back the grin on your face, hearing the shake in the man’s voice. “Here, license plate. Fuck, please tell me you know your license plate.” Hopper begs, both hands coming down to grip your hips. You make sure to ground them down in his lap, feeling the way his cock impossibly hardens underneath you. Hopper doesn’t bother trying to hide his grunt this time, his hips bucking up into you.

The unexpected movement had a surprised moan leaving your lips, and you feel Hopper’s chest vibrate with a deep laugh. “How’d you like that when it’s done to you?” He asks teasingly, but is brought to silence when you reply with an almost pornographic moan of “Oh god, so much.”

“Fuck, I knew these pyjamas were doing something to me.” ”That why you’re so desperate to cover me up, huh?”

You shoot back, grinding your hips down even harder on Hopper’s cock. “Shit, okay, that’s enough.” He finally exclaims, gripping both your hips and lifting you up slightly, a sign for you to get up. You squeak, spinning around to face the solemn faced officer. Shit, what if you had crossed a line? But those thoughts are immediately put to rest when Hopper stands up, pushing you back so you stumble against his desk, his big hand coming to cradle the back of your head as he brings you into a kiss.

Your reaction is immediate — melting against his chest as a loud moan rips out of yours. You grip his tie, desperately trying to bring him closer to you. Hopper breaks the kiss, mumbling against your skin “Your friends are going to get suspicious if you’re gone for long.” But you only throw your arms over his shoulders, bringing his body closer to yours as you respond with “My friends are drunk Hop.” The man laughs, accepting the kiss you bring him into. One of his feet kicks your legs open and you gasp, mouth opening just enough to let Hopper slide his tongue into your mouth. Hopper’s hand moves from the back of your head and down your front, snaking into your pyjama shorts to feel around for your wetness. “Shit. We haven’t even done anything yet.” He teases, and you scoff, saying “I can say the same for you, soldier.”

Hopper huffs, watching as you cackle in front of him at your stupid comeback. He doesn’t ask before pulling your short down, making you gasp, eyes worriedly shooting straight to the glass windows and doors of the Chief’s office. “Lay back.” Hopper orders you, nodding towards his desk. You swallow thickly, hopping on his desk before laying down, your legs hanging over the edge of the table. Hopper carefully places the newly signed paperwork in one of his drawers before mindfully folding your legs up so your feet can rest on the edge of his desk. He quickly makes work of his belt, pushing his trousers and boxers down just enough for him to take his cock out.

Hopper grips your hips, experimentally thrusting his hips forward so that his dick brushes against your sensitive cunt. You gasp, watching the older man’s every move. He grins, meeting your gaze to wink at you, finally gripping his cock and lining himself up with your entrance. You whimper when he thrusts into you slowly, eyes glued on where his hips are pushing into you. Similarly, Hopper’s gaze is fixed on his cock stretching your pussy out, watching as your arousal engulfs his cock before dribbling out of your hole. “Oh yeah” Hopper whispers, more so to himself as he begins setting a pace that immediately has you moaning. “Oh god!” You cry, hands looking for anything to grip. Not finding anything to hold, they start trailing down your body until one of them lands on your clit, rubbing tight circles, the other one pinching at your nipples. Hopper curses loudly at the sight, increasing the power of each and every thrust into you.

Objects on the desk rattle with the power of each thrust, and a pen holder falls off the desk, causing a dozen of pens and pencils to go rolling on the floor. You moan loudly, thighs beginning to shake as pleasure shoots up your abdomen. “Yeah, that’s good.” Hopper praises as your pussy clamps down on his cock. He embraces the sight of you in his police jacket, and just the mere thought that it’s going to smell like you afterwards is enough to bring him closer to his orgasm. Hopper bottoms out with each thrust, his balls smacking against the skin of your ass. He pulls out all the way until just the tip is in before slamming all the way back in as hard as he can, which has you crying out due to his generous size, back arching against the cold wood of the desk.

Hopper’s hands move from your hips to your knees, which he uses to push your legs closer to your chest, leaning his body weight on your legs as he continues thrusting into you. The new angle has your head reeling, and one of your hands eagerly comes up to grip his wrist, as though that will bring you closer to your orgasm. You begin squirming at the stimulation, but Hopper only drills into you harder — it’s the least he can do with his pace slowing down. “Fuck you’re so needy. Pussy fucking swallowing my cock.” He grunts, watching as your pussy squeezes him in. It seems his words have a positive effect on you because you’re suddenly seeing white, back arching as your soul is brought to a different dimension.

You pussy flutters around Hopper’s cock, and he’s immediately halting inside you, thick ropes of cum painting your insides white. You gasp, back arching, and Hopper exhales deeply, gently releasing pressure off your legs, which flop tiredly on his desk, your entire body feeling exhausted. Hopper pulls out, and you hear the rattle of his belt as he makes himself modest again. You jump at the feeling of wet tissues on your cunt, looking up to find Hopper staring down at you worriedly. “Sorry kiddo. You okay down there?” You hum, nodding lazily and putting your hands up so that he can help you sit up. You tuck yourself deeper into Hopper’s jacket, hoping he’ll let you take it home, and it seems he reads your mind because when he pulls your shorts back up, he stands there for a moment smiling at you before finally saying:

“Come on, let’s get you home.”

[bonnibellexox]

Writing: Things I Learnt The Hard Way #10

~Side Quests~

Establishing character motivation can be tricky. Sometimes you’ll overdo it and sometimes your readers will have no idea what’s going on, but sometimes, you have the opportunity to set everything up in just a few sentences. You can do this by giving your character a side quest.

Let me explain...

Caught Red-Handed: Chapter 1 Fascinating

After we’ve caught our breath, the stunning girl gets dressed and slips out the door, back into the pulsing music and wandering hands. I can’t remember her name… Oh well, she probably didn’t even tell me. It would have been a fake name anyway. So why do I still feel guilty?

Here we have my main character (Jaune from RWBY) out for a night on the town having multiple meaningless hookups in one night. This concept, detached anonymity, is only briefly mentioned, but it’s one of the first things he thinks about in the entire story.

So, the next night, he makes a point to ask a girl’s name as they strip each other. He repeats in back to her and remembers it when they are introduced later. It’s mixed in with the wider plot and a lot of dialogue which is important for keeping this quest subtle and almost subconscious to the reader.

Why is this important?

This little storyline takes up no more than 50 words. It could have been dragged out, I suppose. He could have learnt his love interest’s name first instead, if they didn’t already know each other. Doesn't it undercut the concept to have it start and finish in the same chapter? Well, that comes down to one very important point.

It was never about names.

What does Jaune want? To be able to call out to strangers? Have something to put as their contact in his phone? Maybe brag about girls he’s hooked up with by name?

NO!

Jaune wants to connect with people. He doesn't realise it for a long time, but what he’s feeling is a discomfort with how disposable he and every girl he meets seems to be. This sets the stage for the entire story. From this point on, every decision he makes can be traced back to his need for intimacy. The point of his quest for names isn’t to identify someone, it’s to highlight this entire facet of his mentality. Those 50 words light the fuse of the entire story.

And I bet you didn’t even notice...

So, here’s the formula:

1) Understand what your character wants and where they're headed

2) Give them a taste of success, one tiny goal in the background

3) Let them have it

4) Show how they react to achieving the goal to pinpoint how important it is to them

5) Leave the success open-ended. It’s not enough and we all know it, but now we understand the direction they’ll take as the story progresses. If a name is important to Jaune, imagine a real relationship with someone he’s already known for years. What would that do to him? What might he do to keep it?

Good luck and thanks for reading, XOX.

If you liked this, click My Writing Tips in the tags for more!

[naturecalls111]

WIP!!! Stealing glances amidst victory celebrations in Suna….

[nadiajustbe]

Both Howl and Sophie being canonically afraid of heights makes the "screaming in the wind scene" so much more satisfying.

Like, yes, these two are who knows how many meters above the ground, riding an actual wind blowing in their ears, and they also have to run so they would not crush to the ground, and yes, they're both terrifyingly afraid of heights BUT WHO CARES? They're too busy with each other, fighting and screaming at top of their lungs, changing other's views on life and maybe releasing how much they value and care about each other.

They simply do not see anything else. They're scared too lose one another more than anything else.