#and their exchange so that even in the distance

[fatedroses]

he is indeed very proud of himself.

[gothamite-rambler]

Dentists seem to be their one weakness

Yes, this is based of Tori and Trina when Trina got her wisdom teeth removed.

Cass, Tim, and Stephanie entered the department store, but Cass quickly glanced at her phone and noticed that a couple of people were missing.

Cass: Where are Dick and Jason?

Tim: Um, I guess they didn’t tell you. Jason had all his wisdom teeth removed, and Dick guessed the wrong number, so he’s taking care of him.

Stephanie (alarmed): He got… all his wisdom teeth removed?

Tim: Yep. The crazy thing about the Lazarus Pit is that the liquid grew his wisdom teeth back, even though Bruce paid to have them removed before Jason died. Apparently, the dentist convinced Bruce it was best to take them all out because of the damage already done to Jason's mouth when he went last week.

Stephanie: Why would they even tell Bruce—he's covering the payment for the removal?

Tim nodded, chuckling.

Stephanie (snarky): Let me guess, Bruce dipped for an important vacation or mission?

Tim (feigning shock): Oh my God, how did you guess? He even brought Selina along to 'keep him company.'

Stephanie (shaking her head with a smile): All to avoid dealing with loopy Jason. Poor, poor Richard.

Cass: Why wouldn’t Bruce want to take care of Jason?

Stephanie snorted in laughter, waving her hand for Tim to explain.

Tim: Who do you think came up with this system? He’ll provide a ride home—that’s it.

Stephanie: It’s deceiving as heck, but I admire it.

Tim rolled his eyes.

Tim: You would.

Cass (doubtful): Jason has been through worse pain; he can’t be that bad.

Tim and Stephanie exchanged a knowing glance, then resumed their shopping without discussing the matter further.

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

Meanwhile, at Dick's apartment, Jason sat on the couch, arms crossed, in pain from the novocaine wearing off, refusing to open his mouth for his medication.

Dick (holding out a purple pill): Take the pill.

Jason (with gauze in his mouth): No.

Dick (for the tenth time): I need you to take the pill.

Jason (muffled): Nuh-uh, they taste nasty!

Dick: We’ve been at this for thirty minutes!

Jason’s eyes darted toward the door, searching for an escape. In a sudden burst of energy, he elbowed his brother in the stomach. Dick fell to the ground but managed to grab Jason's leg before he could escape, knocking him down as well.

Dick (angry): You’re going to take this fucking pill—

Jason punched Dick in the cheek, sending him backward. In retaliation, Dick kicked Jason in the stomach.

Dick: We’re doing this the hard way, got it?

Dick grabbed his brother’s leg again and dragged him back. The brothers started grappling as Dick tried to pry open Jason’s mouth.

Jason (whining): I don’t want the pill!

Dick (shouting): You need it, or you’ll get an infection!

Jason flipped Dick across the coffee table, causing the irritated, tired man to growl in frustration.

Dick (enraged): I will break every bone in your body until you take this pill!

Jason: Catch me first!

Jason ran across the apartment as Dick chased after him. Hayley the dog and Austen the cat watched from a distance, amused by their antics.

Dick (pinning his brother): Take the pill! I don’t care what you say!

Jason: No, I don’t want it! They taste awful!

Dick: I’ve been dealing with this for five hours! Take it! Take it now!

With a final surge of determination, Dick held Jason down, pried his mouth open, and forced the pill down his throat. Jason screamed but eventually swallowed the pill, whining as he shoved Dick off him. Dick collapsed onto the floor, grumbling.

Jason rubbed his sore mouth, cursing the fact that his wisdom teeth had regrown since he’d been brought back to life. Dick calmly stood up, grabbed a glass of water, and lifted Jason by the shirt collar.

Dick: Here’s your water!

He tossed the liquid into Jason’s face, then dropped him back to the ground.

Jason: When my mouth is healed, I will break your arm, your leg, and all your teeth!

Dick: Awesome, I’m just going to lay down. Stupid number-guessing game!

[rikkiz]

Can you write a step-cest or, like the reader, is friends with his sister, and they hook up behind her back or smth only if you would like to 💐💐

Dirty Little Secret - Nishimura Riki

To say you had a crush on Riki would be an understatement. Embarrassingly enough, you were completely infatuated with him. You didn't know what it was. He was just so appealing to you. What was probably the biggest appeal was its forbiddenness. He was your best friend's brother for god's sake.

At first, you thought he had no interest in you. But the interactions, whether small or not, had you thinking otherwise lately. The looks exchanged between you both, how he'd brush against you as he walked past "by accident", and stuff like that. It all had you wondering if you had a chance.

One day, you decided to go to your best friend's house to see if she was there as you wanted to hang out. You also figured that even if she wasn't, it'd be worth it to go just to see her brother who'd likely be home.

You arrived at the front door and rang the doorbell before waiting for someone to open the door. You stood there for a moment before the door opened and you were met with Riki standing in front of you, towering over you as he looked down.

"Uh, is your sister home?" You shyly asked as you looked up at him, your cheeks flushing.

It was so obvious to him that you had some type of feelings for him. You hadn't exactly done a good job at hiding it. He noticed your blushes, the way you'd freeze up when he'd "accidentally" touch you, the way you stammered when you both spoke. He wasn't stupid.

"No, she had work. She didn't tell you?" Riki asked.

"Well... no. This wasn't really planned. I just wanted to stop by." You explained as you looked down at your feet. "I'll get going." You tell him as you glance up back at him and go to leave.

"You don't have to leave. You came all this way after all." Riki said and you found yourself freezing. "Come in." He said.

You found yourself stammering, "It's fine. Really. I should go."

"Y/n. You're my sister's best friend. I see you all the time yet we never hang out. Let's hang out." Riki insisted.

"I- um, okay." You finally agreed.

Riki smirked a little, "Come inside." He said as he slightly stepped out of the way, barely though, forcing you to brush against him as you stepped inside, sliding your shoes off by the door.

He leads you to the kitchen, "Want something to eat?" He asked as you walked into the kitchen with him.

"I'm okay. Thanks." You say.

"You sure?" Riki asked and you simply nodded in response.

He didn't say anything more as went to get himself a snack. He grabbed something to heat up in the microwave and put it inside before pressing some buttons and leaning against the counter as he waited for the food to finish heating up.

"I always see you but you never talk to me. Don't like me or something?" Riki teased a bit, knowing that wasn't true but he wanted to point out your distance from him.

"No, that's not true." You say a little too quick. "I- I just don't know what to talk about with you..." You tell him as you look down again.

Riki decides to be a little bold, well, not a little, a lot. "How about we talk about the way you're always blushing when you're around me. Like, right now." He points out and as soon as you process his words, your tensing up and your heart's beating out of your chest.

"W- what?" You stuttered.

"You think I'm stupid or something?" He asked.

"No..." You responded as you looked into his eyes, noticing how he slowly stepped closer to you.

"Really? Then why are you so shocked I knew you liked me when you make it so damn obvious." He said.

You don't know what to say. You're at a complete loss of words. Were you supposed to defend yourself and deny the accusations? Was there even any point? You couldn't even tell if he hated the thought of you liking him.

You didn't need to think much though because you got your answer when Riki leaned down and kissed you. That kiss wasn't exactly gentle either. He was rough as his hands went your hips, pulling you closer as he bent down and kissed you passionately.

You moaned out in surprise as your hands went to his chest and you held onto his shirt, reciprocating the kiss. The fact that this was wrong was nowhere in your mind right now. All you could think was "Riki, Riki, Riki, Riki."

Riki didn't break the kiss as he lifted you up on the counter, his hands now resting on your ass he pressed himself against your clothed core, your legs wrapped around his hips as he mindlessly ground against you.

The food in the microwave was completely forgotten as you both kissed feverishly, his hips now slightly thrusting against you so that you were practically humping at this point.

Your moans against his mouth combined with both the friction and the fact that you were right here for him was enough to make him as hard as a rock. You were soaking wet, leaking through your panties at this point. It was obvious the two of you just wanted each other- wanted each other really bad.

His hands moved to the waistline of your pants as he pulled away from the kiss. "Can I?" He asked and you nodded. He lifted you up a little as he pulled your pants down, now leaving you just in your underwear down there.

"God, wanted you for so long." He groaned out as he looked down at how your underwear stuck to your core.

Riki then pulled your undies off, leaving you completely bare. He stared at your leaking cunt. You shuttered at his gaze before your hands went to his waistband, tugging at it a little.

"Want me?" He asked and you nodded. As if it wasn't obvious enough.

He just chuckled before pulling his pants and boxers down, his hard cock springing out, hitting his stomach. Your breath hitched at the sight.

"I'll pull out, 'kay?" He said and you probably shouldn't have trusted that so easily but you did, nodding eagerly, just wanting him to fuck you already.

He held his shaft before guiding his tip so that it was rubbing against your folds before sliding just the tip into your leaking core, causing you to whine out as you held onto his biceps. He groaned out before slowly sliding in more, letting you adjust before eventually bottoming out.

"Fuck." He cursed as he felt the way you squeezed him so good.

He then slowly started to move his hips so that he was thrusting in and out of you, his pace growing quicker and more rough as you grew more comfortable.

You were whining, moaning, and crying out for him. You held onto him for support as he held you by your hips against him.

"Fuck- fuck-." You whined out as he hit a particular spot.

"Feel good?" He huffed out, continuing to hit that same spot, seeing the effect it had on you.

"Ah, yeah." You moaned out.

"Good." He groaned out as he continued to hit that spot.

As he hit that spot, it didn't take long for you to feel something that had you knowing you were going to cum soon.

"I- I'm close." You moaned out.

"Me too. Me too." Riki said as he held you closer, hitting deeper, if that was even possible.

You were nearly crying at this point as he fucked you. Without any warning, you cumming. He fucked you through it before he was pulling out, jerking his hand a few times, and cumming on your thigh.

After the both of you came down from your highs, he lifted you up, gently taking you off the counter. "I'll take you to my room. Clean you up. Okay?" He said.

"Okay." You nodded, feeling dazed.

You couldn't believe what just happened. You wondered what this now meant. Would you just pretend this never happened? Would you continue to simply fuck in secret? Would this turn into more than something just sexual? You would just have to wait and see.

[kill4luvina]

A Deeper Connection with Love ♡

Chapter 1 : A Familiar Feeling

"If I move too quick past you, I would think it’s my reflection— I wonder when they see just one, do they see us two?"

➽──────────────────❥

You’d slowly scan the completely full lecture hall, or so it seemed at first glance. Looking for an open seat somewhere nearby, only to be interrupted by a whisper from close by. Your eyes would follow the voice only to find an empty seat only a feet away, which was once occupied by a backpack. “Over here” the male would say, as you quickly walked over taking the seat beside him.

As you sat down the male gave you a soft smile, as you smiled back thanking him. “You’re not too late by the way, we haven’t even started anything important yet.” he whispered as you looked over at him, finally taking a moment to take in his facial features. “Do I know you?” You’d ask, feeling like the two of you were, or at least used to be friends. 

A comfortable silence would wash upon the both of you, caught up in trying to remember if you had seen each other before. You’d take moment slowly inspecting his features, your eyes being drawn to his nose piercing. You'd make eye contact with him, the idea of him actually being attractive crashing you like a wave.

You'd give a playfully “disgusted” look as the two of you softly laughed. “We don’t know each-other, but you dead do seem familiar.” He’d finally say as he slightly shrugged, as he took out his AirPod putting it away now having is focus completely on you. “Mmm, I’m Y/n..” you’d put your hand out, he’d chuckle as he shook your hand.

“Onyankopon, but you can js call me Ony mamas. Pleasure to meet you once more.” He’d tease as you both easily bonded, the small inside joke forming as the two of you quietly laughed. As class progressed the two of you almost forgot you were in class, completely ignoring the teacher as you continued the conversation.

“PROJECT DUE IN 2 WEEKS! FIND PARTNERS.” The teacher would yell out to the class as the bell rang simultaneously and everyone scattered. You and Ony would get up getting your bags softly laughing as another small inside joke you both had made. “But so this automatically make us partners right?” You’d joke.

”yeah, ofc” he’d smile putting his phone out for you, catching on quickly your pull out you phone putting it slightly above his. Phones automatically vibrating as they exchange contacts using the ‘NameDrop’ feature.

”ONYY!” A voice would yell from down the hallway, a group of boys walking in the distance waving. Ony would give an irritated expression knowing exactly what they were trying to do. “You should start going before they get over here, you see the one waving and yelling my name? He’ll fuck anything and everything.”

You’d laugh before shaking your head in disbelief. “Are all your friends weird like that?” You’d ask as he shook he head no. “Just him, but ima ttyl?” “Yeah, text me or sumin.” You’d smile walking away as you waved him goodbye. “Bye”

You’d feel a vibration from your phone as you slowly opened in only to see a message from someone you weren’t expecting, at least not so soon.

Ony : Wsg?

Y/n : 😛

Y/n : nm , tell me y this class boring asl ngas bouta leave

Ony : oh wrd? meet me at the hallway we was at before you left. Y/n : bett , also yu going to that party being hosted by Eren? Y/n : Idk him but it sounds fun

Ony : Oh yeah, na I gotchu you can come with me

Ony : yk Eren the nigga that was waving at me ri??

Y/n : rlly?? 😬 ian have my glasses I was looking at a bunch of blurry figures.

Ony : imagine being blind.

Y/n : imagine being friends with a hoe

Ony : aigh, get ya ass over here run me my 1s

Y/n : OMW 😝

“aigh nigga, square up.” You’d say dropping your tote bag to the side as you put your fists up. “Y/n..” Ony would roll his eyes completely ignoring you as he picked up your bag for you. “what we doin?” He’d ask, as you shrugged the two of you now walking to the main entrance.

“You tryna go out for lunch?” You’d finally ask when you reached the front door. Exiting as the building as a cool breeze hit you, making you realize how warm the building was. “Fs, we could walk to the chipotle right down there ain’t no reason to waste gas money.” He said making you nod in agreement waking beside him.

“Oh, so bouta the party.. you coming with me or??” He’d ask, cutting through the comfortable silence between you too. “it’s tonight right?” You’d ask “Yeah, and I can get you in for free.” He’d make eye contact with you for as you nodded. “Aigh bet, you want me to pick you up or?”

“Yeah, you could come pick me up. I'ma send u my address later, I live in a apartment not too far form the school." You'd say taking your phone, opening the camera app before turning it around and taking a picture of yourself. You'd laugh looking at the picture, he had photobombed it sticking out his middle finger at the camera.

Later that day, you found yourself scattering your apartment bedroom for an outfit. For some reason you felt you had to look extra good, something about the party made you excited but anxious at the same time. Maybe it wasn't the party itself but the person who was going to take you to the party.

"LUVINAAA" You'd scream, as your friend barged into the room screaming too. "OMG ARE YOU OKAY??" she'd ask panicking, holding a knife in one hand. Based off what she was wearing it was clear she was in the kitchen, her apron messy from the baking she was doing. "I need help picking out an outfit.." you'd say softly making your poor roommate almost faint.

"I thought you were dying, wtf-" she'd say out of breath walking back out of the room. "I'll be back in a second." she'd call out from what sounded like the kitchen. She'd re-enter the room without her apron and with her phone in replacement of the knife.

"Don't ever scare me like that again." Luvina would sigh as she walked to you closet taking a small peek before realizing all majority of you clothes were spread messily around your room. "To my room?" She'd ask, making eye contact with you as you quickly got excited already running into her room as she chased behind you "DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING!!"

“alright, what do you think?” Your best friend would ask from behind you as you stepped into view of her full body mirror. “Oh my gosh, this is cute.” You’d gasp in complete shock at your outfit “but you do think I’m showing a little too much skin?” You’d ask slightly embarrassed. “Girl, ofc not.” Luvina would giggle coming from behind you giving you a hug as she softly caressed your tits catching you off guard as you tried to run away. “LUVI!!” You’d laugh as she started to tickle you, falling over the two of you would end up on the floor in pure laughter.

You’d pick up your phone from beside you to see an unread message from Ony.

Ony : I’m here

Y/n : omw

“Have fun” Luvina would smile as she handed you your purse. “Thank youu!” You’d say taking your bag as you kissed her on the cheek quickly walking out of the room.

The way Ony's jaw almost touched the floor seeing what your came out, something that'll forever live rent free in your head. His eyes wandering every single inch of the Rose Lace jumpsuit you had on. You'd quickly make your way over giving him a side hug as he came around with you opening the door for you.

"oouu, thank you!" you'd tease him a little as you got into his car. "I just realized we have the same car you'd giggle as sat in the driver seat. "Oh really?" he'd say as you nodded pulling up a picture on your phone.

At the party, you noticed Ony almost never left you alone. The moment he even felt you didn't want to watch him talk to his friends he was ready to do whatever you wanted. From waiting outside of the bathroom for you, to making sure your drink was 100% safe throughout the night.

"Do you, want to stay for the after party as well?" He'd ask with a blunt in hand sat infront of you. "mmm... i don't know.. lemme think." you'd stand infront of him for a moment before taking a seat on his thigh though there was a free seat beside him on the couch.

"Any other options?" You'd ask, taking your cart from your purse out hitting it once as he stared at you with low eyes. "Honestly, if you wanted to get dicked down you ain't need to do alla this." he'd say lowly. "ion fuck until after the first few dates silly."

You'd kiss his cheek before getting up and wandering away to the entrance knowing he'd be following. As soon as you were outside you felt him press up behind you giving you light kisses on your neck. "When we gonna go on that date then?" he'd ask, as you giggled.

"Whenever your ready." You'd smile as you got into his car leaving him outside smoking.

➽──────────────────❥

chapter 2 (linked here when done)

“You’re one in a million— I done met a lot of people, but nobody gave me this feeling.”

[acapelladitty]

When The Lights Go Out: Riddler

Summary: Richard Madison is a crook but a strange encounter with a man calling himself Edward Nygma may prove to be his undoing.

Part 1: When The Lights Go Out: Scarecrow

AO3 Link ☆ Fic Masterlist

The miraculous release of Walter Johnstone from his asylum incarceration was not the only odd thing to have occurred in Gotham that day. Nor would it be the last.

It was certainly a day that Richard Madison was never likely to forget.

If you asked the average person to describe Richard Madison they would have a host of phrases ready to spring forth in his praise. As sweet as sugar, one might claim. Honest as they come, another would cry. A good man with a good heart. However, there were those who saw another side to the man and those individuals would quietly lament his misdeeds and misgivings.

Both opinions are entirely valid to their holders, as all opinions are, however those who believed in him were only witness to the facade which he presented to the world.

To put it simply, Richard Madison was a crook.

Oh, how people loved being around Richard. They whispered promises in his ears, slipped offerings into his pockets, and overall doted on him in exchange for the opportunity to engage. To have their needs met.

And he was never a man to deny the people their needs.

When it suited him.

Emerging from the elevator to his private office, his shoulder clicked as he stretched his arms before him to prepare for the next few hours of sitting at his computer and running his small empire from the comfort of his favourite chair.

However, an unexpected sight stopped him dead in his tracks.

Standing in his office as though he belonged there, lounged a suited man. His body was on the thinner side and even from this distance Richard could tell that the bottle green suit, expertly styled as it cinched his frame, was cut from expensive cloth. Boyish features shone from a face which could not have been a day over forty and his appearance was made all the more striking by the shock of flame red hair which sat atop his head, mostly covered by a lurid green bowler hat which perfectly matched the shade of his suit.

“Richard Madison!” The man exclaimed in a showman voice, his excitement radiating from him in waves. “In the flesh! The man of the hour!”

Reaching out as he approached Richard’s stunned position, he gripped his hand in a firm grasp before shaking with an almost comedic level of effort. His arm swinging up and down in the grasp of the madman, Richard politely let go before hiding his hand within his pocket to prevent any further touching.

“Who are you?” Richard asked. This was his private office and absolutely no one got in here without first jumping through a series of hoops designed to keep out any 'undesirables'. “And what the hell are you doing here?” He allowed his shock to manifest as anger as he roared at the red-haired man.

“Lovely office,” throwing an arm out with great flourish, the man ignored the open aggression to gesture wildly around the room, “you must tell me who your decorator is.”

The stark minimalism of his office stared back at him as Richard's eyes swept the room. His room was boring, intentionally designed as such, so was he joking?

“Look, buddy, I don't thin-” cutting himself off, Richard clenched and unclenched his fist as he repeated his earlier question. “Who are hell are you?!”

“My name is Edward Nygma.” Flashing a smile, Edward dropped his head in a dramatic nod and allowed the green bowler hat to topple from his scalp and into his waiting hands before tucking it below his arm. “It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Madison. May I call you Richard?”

Now exposed, his red hair was perfectly coiffed into an old-fashioned style which felt very out of place in the modern office.

“I suppose.”

“What about Dick?”

Pursing his lips as his eyes narrowed, Richard was unable to tell if this man was mocking him or his earnest manner was genuine.

“I usually insist on Richard.”

“Then feel free to call me Edward.” Edward answered. “And to answer your earlier question, I am here to make you an offer which I know you will be unable to resist. We are both men of knowledge and money, so I know that you will want to hear what I have to say.”

“I’m not a trader.” Richard spat back, the surreal nature of this meeting making his aggression feel more performative that anything. “If you want me to invest in some shit you’re cooking up then go to Wall Street and pitch to the sons of bitches there.”

“Oh, I met the fools at Wall Street. Quite a long time ago.” Smirking as lips curled into a smile, Edward flashed his white teeth. “I gave them all the clues and all the opportunities to be honest men and they chose to ignore me. And then? Can you believe it? BANG!”

At this, Richard jumped in place as Edward smacked his hand against his thigh with some force.

“It all came crashing down. The Wall Street Crash, they called it. More than a few brains came to decorate the nearby paving after that, but they can't say they hadn't been warned. I gave them every chance.”

He's definitely mad, Richard thought. Edward did not look a day over forty and yet he had the gall to claim that he was present for the Wall Street collapse in the 30's?

“Talking like that will get you locked up in Arkham.” Richard warned.

“Oh no,” Edward exclaimed, “oh no, no, no! That would never do! I am far too intelligent for that and besides,” leaning in close as though divulging some information that only he was privy to, the green of Edward’s eyes twinkled madly for a moment, “an old friend has already made himself comfortable in those harrowed halls. It would be rude for me intrude on his delicate work.”

“You have connections in Arkham?” Such things were not unheard of and Richard himself had at least one guard on his payroll to ensure that the odd piece of information here and there fell into his hands. “Staff or guests?” He added.

“Staff today could be guests tomorrow and vice-versa. Let's not judge people based on their current position, particularly when that position is fragile at best. Fantastic things are afoot in Gotham right beneath your nose,” Edward insisted, “and my associates and I are here to see what she has to offer. So much filth and rot and chaos all wrapped in a pretty package of gothic architecture and urban landscaping.”

“Associates?”

“Oh, don't you worry, Richard. You are very unlikely to ever meet them as we tend to stick to our roles somewhat rigidly.”

“I need to make a phone call.” Richard interjected quickly. “Excuse me.”

Quickly retreating back to the doors of the elevator, Richard snatched his mobile from his suit pocket and quickly hit one of the numbers on his speed dial. This man, Edward, seemed to have decent connections and money to his name but he wanted to be sure before moving any further.

To his luck, his secretary picked up after only two rings.

“Hello, Richard Madison’s office. How may I direct your call?” Came a feminine droll from the other end of the line.

“Hey, Sam.” Relieved to hear a familiar voice, Richard continued. “Need you to run a quick background check for me.”

“Sure, boss.”

“Claims his name is 'Edward Nygma'. Never heard of him before but he looks like he has some decent coin behind him.”

“Okay. And where is he currently?”

“Standing inside my office.”

An audible hitch of breath.

“Okay, boss.”

Immediately on to business, Richard could hear the frantic tapping of her keyboard as she sought out the information he needed.

“The name is coming up here, boss.” As though reading from a script, Sam listed off her findings. “Edward Nygma. Business owner and entrepreneur. Apparently considered rather handsome. Worth…”

A pause.

“What?” Richard asked.

“Billions. Christ, he could put Wayne outta business. He’s absolutely loaded.”

“Billions! How have we not heard his name before?”

“He's a noted recluse. Very little personal details available here. All I can see is that his net worth is mind-blowing but the only thing he has name officially to is a production line of different types of toys.”

“Child toys?”

“Puzzle toys. For all ages and ranges.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah. It’s not a lot to go on but it’s definitely there. Good source too. He's legit.”

Hanging up with a shaking finger, Richard could smell opportunity like a shark could blood. A noted recluse worth billions, right here in his office. He could take advantage of this in a way which he and all others had been unable to do so with Bruce Wayne; a man so wrapped up in his holier-than-thou attitude that he refused to engage in any business which would dirty his hands.

Richard hated him.

Taking a deep breath, he dropped his phone back into his pocket and started to move back towards Edward. He had not moved an inch since Richard had disappeared, but his attention was wholly focused on something which was clutched between his hands. As he approached, the flash of the brightly-coloured item in Edward's palm also drew Richard's attention and he squinted as though a sharp light had accosted him.

“What's in your hands?”

Rolling the offending object between his fingers with a practised ease, Edward brought it into the space between them.

“This?” He asked. “A curious little thing. I am very fond of puzzles and I haven't seen anything quite like this before.”

Recognising the piece, Richard squinted once again.

“A rubix's cube?” He asked, incredulous.

Who is their right mind had never seen a Rubix cube before?

“Rubix cube.” Edward repeated with a look of contemplation. “After the man who created it?”

“I guess.” Confused as to what exact relevance the puzzle held to the current discussion, Richard gestured vaguely with his hands. “I don't know what this has to do with-”

“Oh, of course! Of course!” Exclaiming loudly, Edward slapped a hand good-naturedly on his knee as he smiled. “Excuse my ramblings but you must forgive an old man his pleasures.”

“Would you like a drink?”

“Watered down whisky doesn’t agree with me, Dick,” Edward declined. “And I would think a man like yourself would want to watch his health. The liver can be a tricky old thing, especially six years down the line.”

“So, what can I do for you, Mr. Nygma? I doubt this is a social call since we don’t, uh, know each other.”

“I have an opportunity which you would be a damned fool to pass up on. A new line of puzzle and magic toys, fabricated and distributed across Gotham and her sister cities.”

With Edward waving his hand around, Richard was able to catch a glimpse of his watch and found himself momentarily stunned by the beautiful timepiece and the various gemstones which were embedded within.

“Toys? Just toys? Surely we cou-”

“I have meetings today with others, including a meeting with a very interesting man named Wayne who seems to have taken a liking to my products,” Edward grinned.

Richard’s chest clenched with anger at the familiar name and he immediately backpeddled on his scepticism, “That won’t be necessary. I would love to enter into a business deal with you, Mr. Nygma. I hear you have quite the reputation.”

“I’m certain I do,” Edward replied, “and I would like to bring you onboard before I return to my other duties. $10 million would suffice as a minor investment, one which would see major returns.”

Wincing at the amount but desperate to keep the vaguely gullible and eccentric billionaire within his grasp, greed already blinding his thoughts as he imagines various ways of involving the fool with his less pleasant ventures, Richard nodded at the proposed amount.

The conversation flowed smoothly after that, discussions of timescales and proposed returns forcing Richard into the belief that he was making a smart choice. His mind focused despite the whirling nature of Edward’s demeanour; Richard felt the thrill of his greed thrumming in his veins as he catered to his latest potential cash cow.

“So, do we have a deal, Dick?”

Extending his hand with a showman smile, Edward allowed it to hang in the air between them with a sense of finality.

Willing to ignore the nickname this one time, Richard nodded once more and accepted the handshake before dropping his hand to his inner pocket. Mobile phone in hand, it took Richard less than five minutes to have the investment money wired over to Edward’s accounts – ensuring that he retained a firm copy of all Edward’s account details should anything go awry with their deal.

“This account is one of my more selective accounts and I would appreciate its use being kept on the quieter side of things. I am sure you understand,” Richard muttered with a put-on smile.

“Of course, of course! My lips are sealed.” Edward winked, placing his bowler hat atop his head with a dramatic flourish. “A silent account for a silent partner.”

His smirk actually blossoming into a genuine smile, Richard took the initiative to end their meeting.

“A pleasure, Mr Nygma. I hope to work with you again.”

Tilting his head with a wicked smirk of his own, Edward answered in kind.

“I’m sure you’ll think of our partnership often.”

x-x-x-x-x

Stepping into the familiar office of Salvatore Maroni, Richard inclined his head to the goons who remained on guard as he joined both the owner of the office and their mutual friend, Daniel Mockingbird, by taking a seat on the only available chair.

“Evening, boys. Pour me a decent one, eh, Sal?” Richard asked, inclining his empty whisky glass to Maroni. A glass which was quickly filled with amber liquid as the man in question poured him a healthy slosh of scotch.

“You’re chipy as fuck today, Richard. Balls finally drop?” Mockingbird cut in, his thick Italian accent glossing over the words with ease.

“Funny,” Richard deadpanned as he sank a gulp of the scotch, “but anyway, how has your week been gentlemen?”

“Great, I got me a new business partner and I think he’s going to be one for the books, boys,” sipping from his own glass, Maroni appeared pleased with himself as he divulged his luck to the other two.

Surprised, given his own unmade announcement, Richard inclined his hand to Maroni as he indicated for him to continue.

“Yeah, some fucking freak. Came here to ask me to partner on an investment deal for some shitty kids toys and-”

“Bullshit!” Mockingbird called out, surprising both men at the outburst. “You met with Nygma too?”

Open shock playing on his face as he watched the two speak, Richard dropped his hands to his lap as his head darted between the two like a tennis match.

“Yeah. Showed up here asking for $10 million.” Maroni confirmed.

“Fuck! Same from me.”

“Same, huh? For the toy business?”

“Yeah, for the fucking toy business. He didn’t say nothing about having other partners.” Running a hand through his slickened hair, Mockingbird was clearly unimpressed with the fact that his great deal had not been as exclusive as he thought. “Jesus Christ man, $20 million from us both. Sneaky fuc-”

“$30 million,” Richard intercut with a frown. “I also received a visitor yesterday.”

Genuinely speechless, all three men grumbled their discontent into their glasses as they observed the others with open suspicion. Their friendship was tenuous, agreements always being settled under the table to ensure that the dirt they could hold over each other was limited, and an event like this would only breed discontent.

Unable to muse for too long as his phone started vibrating madly in his pocket, Richard pulled it free with a gruff greeting as he pressed it against his ear.

“Mr. Madison, we have a problem.”

Sam. Sounding thoroughly distraught as her voice stuttered across the words.

“What is it?” Richard asked, a sinking feeling dropping his chest into his stomach.

“It’s gone, Sir. Everything. All the money from the secret account.”

His heart stuttering at the information, Richard barely noticed when both Maroni and Mockingbird picked up their own ringing mobiles.

“What the fuck do you mean it’s gone?”

“The account is empty, Sir. The $10 million transferred through to the Nygma account but the rest has disappeared. It’s gone, Sir.”

“No, no-NO!” Richard snapped, snarling his words down the phone. “You find me that money, Sam. Find it and get it back. Hunt down that fuck Nygma if you need to because I think he has something to do with it.”

Slamming his phone shut, his heart pounding in his ears as his blood pressure reached new levels, Richard zoned back into his companions to find that all hell had broken loose across both men. Maroni’s face was a stunning shade of puce as he screamed insults into his mobile while Mockingbird was speaking in Italian at record speed, his expression equally as angry.

Allowing both men the time to finish their phone calls as they went through a similar disbelieving anger to himself, Richard understood without a doubt that they had all been swindled in a similar fashion.

“What the fuck is happening?” Mockingbird hissed, throwing his glass to the floor as the scotch splashed across the carpet. “One of my private accounts has been tanked! Gutted! Fucking robbed!”

Maroni pulled his lips back into a snarl, “Same here! Fuck! The account I used yesterday. That sneaky fuck Nygma is behind this and I’m going to find him, boys.”

“Pull our resources! I’m going to kill that red-haired fuck.” Richard added with a roar.

“Red hair?” Mockingbird face was confused despite the rage, “You mean black hair? Short little fucker too, only about 5ft? Weasley as fuck.”

“What?” Squinting, Richard shook his head. “No. He was wiry with red hair, probably about my height and thin as an addicts piss. Sal?”

His voice so low that both men struggled to pick up on his exact words, Maroni growled his own description.

“Brown hair. Slicked back. Slight build on him. Had a stupid cane with him. I even got the bastard on record.”

Snatching out a voice recorder from a nearby desk drawer, Maroni fiddled with it before clicking play on the recorder as all three men stared at it with narrowed eyes.

“-an excellent choice, Mr Maroni! I admire your taste in being able to pick up on a good deal when it comes your way. So, let’s get down to business and I can be on my way. Shall we say around $10 million as an investment? With that I cou-”

His heart racing at the familiar voice, Richard saw a similar look of rage on Mockingbirds’ face as he listened to the recording.

“That’s him!” Mockingbird grunted, his fists clenched against his lap. “That’s the smart-mouthed cunt.”

“How the fuck can that be the same man we all met?” Richard asked reasonably, rage giving way to confusion. “Sure, he could wear a wig or change his clothes, but his height? He wasn’t a fucking magician. This shouldn’t be a fucking riddle. How much did he take from you?”

Directing the question to both men, the grave looks he received in response no doubt mirrored his own. If their loss was as great as his own then they were looking at an easy collective loss of over a hundred million. A hundred million dollars, gone in a puff of smoke.

All dirty.

All untraceable.

As it was designed to be.

It was a perfect theft.

“Play the bastards voice again, Sal.” Mockingbird hissed. “I want it committed to memory so I can remember to have his tongue ripped out when we catch the prick.”

Thick fingers pressing the play button of the audio recorder, Maroni startled in place as the casual conversation which had previously been loaded on the device was replaced by a loud, cackling laughter – the rising cacophony of Edward’s mirth making all three men shiver in place as something dark curled around the joyful sound and rattled them to their cores.

Richard Madison was a crook, but he was no fool, and, as Mockingbird fixed himself with the sign of the cross, Richard could not shake the furious anxiety which seared in his chest as he realised that something evil had held counsel with him in his office yesterday and that his money was gone somewhere he did not dare to follow.

[phantomyre]

As their eyes met, an exchange of mutual mysticism between them, Vincent detected very little from Sephiroth in terms of his response. The man was difficult to read, understandably so. Not only had the pangs of war rendered him emotionless, but so did all of the experiments and lack of human affection. Devoid of feelings, much like himself. Only difference was, one was born into humanity while the other had theirs revoked upon conception.

Though Vincent had easily dismissed the offer to engage with Jenova, Vincent found it curious how Sephiroth persisted. It wasn’t out of courtesy as there was no need for Sephiroth to be cordial towards Vincent. Had it been anyone else, Vincent would have assumed the extended offer as merely an act of common courtesy. But this was Sephiroth—the man who had been playing mind games with all he had to affect. Instead of giving Sephiroth any response to his offer, Vincent’s frown only deepened before turning to gaze outside into the open field once more. Perhaps Sephiroth was being authentic, or it was a trap. Only time would tell. While resolved to go and investigate on his own, Vincent hadn’t expected for Sephiroth to draw his sword, let alone offer him the first blow. Turning his eyes towards Sephiroth again, he glanced from the long steel metal in Sephiroth’s hand up to the pair of mako colors, his eyes slightly narrowing. Judging by his drawn out sword, Vincent knew Sephiroth wasn’t going to let him go alone. It would be a good mile before Vincent could get close enough to close in on the drone and whatever reinforcements it may have had. A faint scoff left Vincent’s lips, turning his attention back towards the distant drone, securing his gun in hand. “Hmph. So now I’m your entertainer as well” Vincent dryly retorted, never taking his eyes off the drone, calculating the distance and speed in his mind. “There could be several more. Can’t be sure until we investigate.” Without waiting for another response, Vincent left the shelter of the cave and ventured out into the harsh cold winds, the snow once again beating upon his form. The drone was scanning close to their area and was beginning to draw closer. The only form of hiding place they had were small mounds of snow and rocks. Not a tree in sight. He quickly slipped behind a rock and pressed his back against it just as the droned passed by, the red laser barely  touching either Sephiroth or Vincent. Unfortunately, he didn’t have a silencer rifle. He had to confirm the drone was alone. Once clear, he looked over the edge again, choosing to move forward. He then heard the sound of another drone approaching from another direction, and he quickly backed himself against another hiding place, ensuring Sephiroth was also doing the same. There had to have been at least 8. Just as they had done so, Vincent could hear a helicopter at a long distance, causing Vincent to sigh. Likely the Turks. The drones would be child splay to take down. But the Turks were another matter. And if they saw him with Sephiroth, he knew the reports would sooner or later hit Cloud and the company. He had to act quickly. “As suspected,” he muttered more so to himself, the wind hardly carrying his voice. He knew the gunshot would attract the other droids which would allow him to round them up for the final blow. However, if they weren’t subsequently taken down, the Turks would likely catch a glimpse of their faces over the wavelength. Moving out from his hiding place, Vincent aimed at one of the drones that had just passed by and shot right through the body of the small spy drone, causing it to crash down into the snow in a small pile of smoke. The four remaining drones were alerted and began to scan the area close to them, all of them beginning to shoot at anything that even remotely looked like a shadow. One caught sight of Sephiroth and began to dart towards him with rapid bullets. Vincent opened fire and shot the drone before it could get too close to scan Sephiroth. “Be my guest," Vincent nodding towards the remaining drones. "But we have to get back to the cave as soon as possible,” Vincent stated, waiting to see what Sephiroth would do.

Skepticism was all but obvious in Sephiroth’s response. Calm though he appeared, Vincent knew Sephiroth’s mind was anything but. Although Vincent was aware that Sephiroth could come at his question from many angles, he wasn’t surprised Sephiroth had chosen to settle on the one that was contingent on Vincent’s actions.

With an inaudible sigh, Vincent lowered his gaze from the horizon to the snow collecting a few feet away from the ground in front of him, watching mini snow-devils pick up particles of snow dust and cast them aside. With the way Sephiroth answered his question, and the forceful adherence to ensure his service would be conducted accordingly, he couldn’t pick up any hints as to whether or not Sephiroth was aware of the consequences Jenova had laid out, or if he was speaking on his own behalf. But then Sephiroth posed a somewhat concerning question towards Vincent.

Lifting his head and turning to look towards Sephiroth, he caught sight of those serpentine eyes staring into his own, searching for the meaning possibly hiding behind crimson spheres.

“…I made a promise,” Vincent equivocated. “And I intend to keep it.” Should Sephiroth recognize the double speak, Vincent would have had his answer when it came to his knowledge of Lucrecia and the nature of the punishment. And if not, well, then perhaps it was for the better Sephiroth wasn’t aware.

Second thoughts…? If only. At least that would have meant he had another option on hand. But alas, it wasn’t so. Nevertheless, the question was a red-flag.

Vincent furrowed his brows with slight unease. If Sephiroth was already anticipating Vincent to become defiant, it could grant Jenova a reason to not even wait for him to carry out his mission. Although Vincent understood Jenova wasn’t hellbent on destruction as opposed to manipulation, he wasn’t about to take that chance. Vincent was no stranger to clandestine activities, manipulation, spying, and antagonization. After all, he used to be a Turk. But no amount of training or experiments could help him surpass Jenova’s mind-games. Vincent had to not only be on a much higher alert, but he also couldn’t give Sephiroth the slightest impression that he had something planned. Because even if he did have a plan, there was nothing holding Jenova back from executing her punishment early.

Speaking directly to Jenova was the last thing he desired. It was bad enough having four demons competing for his thoughts; but it was worse when it was an alien profaning his mind. He had heard of Jenova affecting the scientists those many years ago. Some, like Tseng, hypothesized that Hojo’s immorality was the result of excessive exposure to Jenova. Though it was merely a theory, and Vincent was no longer a mortal, he didn’t want to take his chance.

“Hmph. Thoughtful. But I’ll pass this time.” He would avoid speaking to her as much as possible.

The gunslinger looked away once more out towards the open area, catching a glimpse of a dark speck floating around in the air. It drew his attention from Sephiroth for a moment, and he unfolded his arms in anticipation, watching the object’s movements. Upon closer inspection, he could see the lights flickering, and the overall shape became more recognizable. It was a Shinra Spy drone, a couple miles down the snow-capped mountains, possibly looking for Sephiroth. Vincent’s glare returned. It seemed to be alone, but he knew that wouldn't be the case. There would be several.

"Of course..." Vincent groaned with a hint of annoyance, pulling his gun from his holster. Regardless of how he felt about his new 'assignment', Shinra spy drones were not welcomed, either way.

[harmonysanreads]

Yandere Dr Ratio truly is delicious🤭 there are endless possibilities with him. He is truly underrated 🫠

Hi Lavandula!

I do get why Yandere Ratio isn't widely explored. Ratio isn't really the ‘typical’ Yandere. He won't respond in the same way towards intense feelings as others due to how developed he is when it comes to himself. Characters who are morally gray and towards that end of the spectrum usually make better Yanderes. Ratio's motivations and overall role can make it difficult to imagine him in that light.

Dr. Ratio, to me, is like the study of Logic personified — even more so than Alhaitham. Logic attempts to advance closer towards ‘truth’ by bringing something inherently abstract (thoughts) in tangible constructs. Something about that reminds me a lot about Ratio's mission. You'd think that the man would be extremely pessimistic about the future based on how he speaks, but surprise surprise, he's the exact opposite. Almost as if he experienced it all first-hand.

There is a fun overlap I noticed while studying him (alongside Sunday and Aventurine), although I'm not sure if this is just a coincidence. If you think back to all the questions Sunday proposes about humanity and then rewatch the exchange Ratio has with Screwllum at the end of Crown of the Mundane and Divine — you'll notice that the answers have been there all along.

The words themselves don't matter much, it's the manner, the casual certainty in his tone that gives them meaning. In many cases, Ratio is that man who's already passed many of the struggles of life and is attempting to help others in his very Dr. Ratio way. I sometimes joke that the more issues a character has, the better Yandere they make. If we just take that seriously for a second, compare it to Ratio's significant lack of issues (at present) in comparison to some other characters, I think it makes sense why he's a bit complicated.

One of the perks of Yandere Ratio in my opinion is that, he can work well with almost any kind of darling. Perhaps you're intellectually driven like him, maybe your world views are drastically different from his. Maybe you carry yourself in a certain way, respond to the world around you in a manner that piques his interest. The problem-solving instincts kick in whenever he's observing you.

Or maybe you're quite dumb, constantly walk straight into problems that could've easily been avoided had you just thought twice. Ratio can't stand idiocy, you see. He must treat this malady himself before the worst case scenario comes true.

He's a victim of cuteness aggression when it comes to you, more than you'd think and I will not be taking criticisms here. It's not difficult to break down emotions to their atomic structures in order to avoid processing them, but you make even that a task. He acts so dignified and self-assured all the time, but the moment you commit the greatest offence in his presence (read : being nice to him) — he's going to be thinking about it all month.

The rush of feelings is unfamiliar at best, counterproductive at worst. The thoughts he eventually starts to have are concerning. Distancing himself from you doesn't work, his weird behavior may temporarily make you avoid him. But, he doesn't like that either and oh goodness, the insecurities that surge forward when you're being happy in others' company.

Ignorance may be the disease that plagues most of the universe, but there is something far vicious, obstinate and perplexing that has grasped the great doctor. And he isn't quite certain if he wants to cure himself of it.

[reginrokkr]

» @maquiscursed asked: "Do not open your eyes yet." Neuvillette repeats for the third time, as though Dainsleif bears any chance of doing so, when the Iudex's gloved hand is covering closed sapphires as he guides him by the arm down a sinewy path. The Chief Justice of Fontaine has never been one for surprises -- but, over his many years spent dwelling among humans, he has learnt that surprises were, in fact, an appropriate, and even recommended occurrence for birthdays.

Neither he nor Dainsleif bear much importance to their so-called birthdays, but something this particular year compels the sovereign to, for once, try his hand at this particular custom.

The Iudex and the Bough Keeper leave the trodden path and soon find themselves in high grass, before their steps quickly find soil and sand again; and at last, Neuvillette brings their excursion to a stop. "You may look now." He commands, with a voice so softened, it might as well be a mere request. His hand falls back to his side, and he lets his companion take in the view before them; a tall weeping willow, towering over a crystal clear pond, dying sunlight shimmering between the branches like a cascade of early stars. Upon the 'beach' surrounding the pond, lays a table and two chairs, and a meal expecting its two guests (how the furniture and food were transported and kept at adequate temperature, shall remain a secret of the Palais Mermonia's best staff).

"I thought we might enjoy some time away from the madness of the Palais." Neuvillette muses, before extracting one last surprise, much smaller, but possibly more effortful, from his coat. A small box is handed to Dainsleif; upon opening, he shall find a locket, made of gold and bronze, delicately engraved with azure markings closely resembling the sourcewater patterns adorning his own person (few people know the Iudex to be a craftsman - Dainsleif is now one of them). If the Bough Keeper were to open the locket, he would find, entrapped in sturdy glass casing, a single drop of Spring of the First Dewdrops, shining a faint, pearl-like light within.

"You gave me something to remember you by; I thought it would only be appropriate to return the favour." The dragon of water smiles fondly at his companion - may this droplet of hope and optimism guide him even when his own unwavering hope wavers. "And I promise this dinner is not only made of water. Happy birthday, dearest Dainsleif."

Suspense is not necessarily one of Dáinsleif's cherished things, were he asked. In fact, it brings memories that aren't yet behind him in his long-lasting strife against the Abyss Order where this factor is nerve-racking at best until a clearer outcome shines through. However, when in combination with a presence soothing like holy water to his curse and a gentle touch calming like a balm, Twilight can tolerate it better without opposing resistance nor offering a huff of complaint.

The wait comes to an end at long last and so albescent lashes flutter open to take in the breathtaking sight before them. An emanation of what's been his biggest support for a very long time until his soul encountered repose in another primordial one standing pride and tall in all its cyan glory that pierces through the dyeing orange of the heavens as the sun sets down, all to give room to shy stars to glow crowned by a solemn moon. The clear water of the pond reflecting all colors like aquarelle —how in tune with Neuvillette, to search on purpose a body of water nearby to grant them its beauty— and the table right in front of them, clashing with the scenario in an amusing manner, teller of what the sovereign's insistence to exercise patience and trust in him was about.

And truth to be said, for all the surprise and confusion previous years when this day neared would cause Dáinsleif, Neuvillette never fails to surprise him with something new next. For the longest of time, the abandoned seraph took this day whenever it was possible as a moment of respite and to seek out the comforting presence of the rex, to heal from the solitude that every time becomes heavier the more he grows accustomed to linger in a trusted companion's presence. And today, in commemoration of their new union as lovers, the manner Neuvillette sought to do something for his birthday has bloomed in a different kind.

The Iudex's voice rouses him from his train of thoughts, thus does the knight look at him with interest and nigh puerile curiosity as he watched him fish something from his coat until he's presented a small box. You didn't have to— comes a thought born from small guilt that he has already done enough by bringing him here and arranging dinner for both, but a thought that would never pass past his lips, nevertheless. Dáinsleif opens the box with delicate care, as if his touch would suffice to break it if he weren't careful enough, and so the box reveals a locket that draws the luminary's attention even more.

He takes the little thing in his gloved hand and looks at it, takes in every delicate detail engraved so reminiscent of the innocent culprit that brought him here in the first place. Astral pupils look at primordial echoes for a silent confirmation that he can open it upon noticing that it must conceal something within before he does just that. Sapphire eyes soften at the sight of the dewdrop within and the immediate sentience of Neuvillette's power coalesced within. So small and hidden from external threats, but brilliant and precious when one takes the time to gauge the enormity of its meaning. The locket closes as Dáinsleif's hand closes around it to bring it to his chest, albescent lashes fluttering to a brief close before they open anew to look into draconic eyes.

◜I will treasure it, always.◞ Just as I do you— and our blossoming relationship. As the Iudex' attention returns to the table set for the two of them, Dáinsleif tucks the little locket inside the waistcoat, close to his heart. An amused smile plays on his lips as the Bough Keeper deafly reaches out for Neuvillette's hand to hold in order to guide him to the table as he guided him to this place before, not without pressing a gentle kiss on the back of his hand first. ◜That is for me to judge if it's the case, do you not think?◞ He huffs a soundless chuckle, then he squeezes his hand a tad. ◜Since we're here, let us enjoy this moment, shall we?◞

For filling the void in my heart that would never be filled, and for making me find happiness in a life that knew no justice... I thank you, ol Mph Arsl Gaiol.

[gingermintpepper]

Hi! I just want to clarify that actually Apollo was a sun god in Greece too... The most ancient author who refered Apollo as a solar deity was Aeschylus lived from 525 BCE - 456 BCE

“The unseen land [i.e. the underworld] where Apollon [here the sun] does not walk, the sunless (analion) land that receives all men.”

- Aeschylus, Seven Against Thebes 858 ff

Apollo being a solar deity was definitely not something Romans invented. Yes, maybe in Roma Era he was syncreticed with Helios and was seeing as the sun itself, even replacing Helios in some myths (like Phaeton and Clytie stories). But he was a sun god in Ancient Greece, maybe not itself, but something more like Horus to the egyptian, a solar deity.

Hi hi!! Thank you so much for the clarification!!

I do have to apologise for my own super casual tone probably giving the wrong idea but if this is referring to the tags on a recent post making a (wonderful!!) case for dark-haired Apollo then I do have to say that I didn't state Apollo wasn't associated with the sun in Greek culture but that he was not primarily associated with the sun!

Like you do very correctly say he was more of a civic god with solar aspects like Egypt's Horus (and even that is a large simplification), mostly from a cosmic standpoint. I like saying that Apollo is the 'light' in 'enlightenment' to the Greeks vs being a physical light to the Romans ♡♡

Thank you so much for double-checking my work though! I'll make sure to be clearer with my tags so these kinds of things don't happen in the future 🥰🙇🏾

[silent-sentinels]

dont mind the username change btw we're just separating blogs into a personal talky blog and a more plural oriented (ploriented...) blog, we'll keep you updated [fingerguns]

[goldiipond]

thinking about how easily ray was willing to make an exception to his firm ‘i can only save emma and norman’ stance once don and gilda are actually in on the escape. the fact that, during his ‘deal’ with norman in ep 5 ‘we can bring don and gilda too’ isnt a condition norman had that ray begrudgingly agreed to but rather one that ray brought up completely unprompted.

ray has spent years coming to terms with the fact that saving everyone is impossible, years putting emma and norman over everyone else because they were the most precious people in his life and because risking a bigger escape could get everyone killed. he thought it was better for the others to live ignorant, happy lives until their shipment than to get killed on the outside. 

ray never had that same ignorant bliss the others had, emma and norman lost it after seeing conny, and while don and gilda aren’t given the full truth at first, they are given enough to have that illusion shattered for them as well. i just think a lot about how ray knows what it’s like to be trapped in that house without that happy illusion, and the moment don and gilda lose it, he can’t allow himself to push them away anymore.

[vilnan]

imagining fenris wearing hawke's red favour during the events of the blue wraith and dark fortress is so special to me

[dutybcrne]

Kaeya most definitely tried to rehearse the first thing he would say to Diluc when he'd heard the man was back in Monstadt. Only to have spat out the most silver-tongued, sickly saccharine yet bitingly snarky little remark bc he happened to panic upon seeing the man and immediately knew just how bad he fucked that up by the utter look on Diluc's face.

[yeahlikethebird]

.

[lightnersdream]

[odysseyofrecollection]

In season two, a scene I'd really like to see is just, Louis taking a walk outside. Maybe with Armand, maybe with Daniel, maybe just Louis alone.

A lot has already been said by ppl regarding Louis' depression, the minimalist state of the apartment, thebookshelves, "where's your coffin" - "you're standing it".

By setting the entirety of the present inside the apartment, the show wonderfully conveys this ever-present emptiness, this corner the characters have backed themselves into, this sense that Louis is punishing himself by living like this.

And I think, if he is to heal, being outside might be a good first step. To connect himself a bit more with the rest of the world, to experience that buzz of humanity again.