#anyway can we think about dates reasons for putting on the mask

[chippuyon]

[papil0nglegs]

Pics/gifs that remind me of them

(Fnf x reader)

Warnings: zaza, I hate this word but tsundere, insults but you guys are big girls/boys/things you can handle it

A/n: I’m gonna post shorter hcs for a bit cuz I’m working on this one req that has a lot of stuff, anyways ik this is cringey wattpad shit but who cares. Enjoy <33

Darnell

This is before you two were dating btw

All he wanted to do was doodle a bit 😔

“Oo whatcha got in there?”

“None of your goddamn business..”

grab

“Why are you hiding these they’re so c..”

This man was practically glowing mauve

It’s okay, you were blushing too

“…I won’t tell anyone if you let me keep it.”

“I fucking hate you.”

“Really? Cuz this says otherwise”

“IT SAYS NOTHING”

No but actually, you stared at them almost everyday

It got to the point where you memorized them page by page

After you guys started dating, it became an inside joke that he was always embarrassed of

“Draw me like your French girls Darnell..”

“Oh my fucking-just-don’t remind me”

Once you tried drawing him and it def wasn’t up to his level of mastery, but he still loved it

He cut it out and hung it up on his wall next to his bed

Nene

You guys swap every now and then but she likes it more when you do it

“Y/n do me first plsplspls”

“Okay okay just as long as you take out your knives, I don’t want them to cut me again”

“That was one time 🙄”

“No nene, it was two times.”

Sometimes you’ll choose themes, like ocean or just a general color

You guys would get into funny arguments about the shades

“Nene this not purple that’s pink”

“It’s a mix of both!”

“The theme was purple so just do purple! It shouldn’t be a mix of anything 😒”

No wonder she always loses in dress to impress..

She would sometimes awkwardly zone out just staring at your eyes

(And if you have brown eyes and your eye does that one thing during golden hour, she’s immediately gone)

“…nene?”

“Yea?”

“The makeup.”

“Oh fuck, sorry”

You guys love face masks too

When she gets back from Ulta or Sephora she always brings something back for you

“Y/n guess what I got you!!”

“Lemme guess, another face mask”

“No! Sol de Janeiro scent 40!!”

“ gasp MARRY ME”

“OKAYY ^^”

Pico

(Big ass picture omg)

Guys, the makeout sessions.

Pico is an okay kisser when sober, but for some reason his tongue just gets ✨✨ when puffing that za

He loves going to his house, playing “doin’ time” by sublime in the background while making out with you on his bed

You guys have been doing it since your teen years

“Mom I need to go to my friends house to study”

“Okay hun just be back before 8:30”

Best studying session of your life

Sometimes you guys don’t even kiss, just 🍃 + cartoons

Or random convos, like really random convos

He’s not a fan tho

“You think the wind is ever trying to tell us something we don’t understand yet?”

“…I want you to stop saying odd shit.”

One time, he grabbed your belt to pull you closer and did his tango with the tongue

The butterflies you felt when he did that.

“Jesus fuck Pico..”

“What? Did you not like it? I’m sorry I just-“

“Do it again or I’ll kill you”

You guys were such horny teens

And it hasn’t settled down ever since

But since consent is sexy, you two never BOOMBAYAH’D while 🍃

“P-Pico I bet can kiss every freckle on that beautiful fffucking face of yours”

“You wanna bet? Giggle I’ll put 20$ on this table right now”

“Hell yeah, bring it on Ed Sheeran head ass”

Eventually your lips got tired

“Pico my lips are so tired now”

“Nuh uh, keep going”

“Hey you can’t tell me what to do, respect women!”

“Idc I’m sexiest now”

“I think it’s sexist”

“No, it’s sextile”

“…okay”

I don’t think he was with us at that moment

Bitch was seeing stars

[dvskf4llz]

Could I request a Xisuma x Reader(gender neutral if possible)?

I had a somewhat cute idea about how X doesn't take off his helmet and how it's kinda like a privacy thing (similar to how Etho doesn't take his mask off), so none of the hermits have seen his face, same with reader. So they've only recently started dating and, obviously, haven't kissed yet since X doesn't really like or want to take off his helmet (if there is a reason then you can think of something!) and the reader respects it. One day, though, X has to take off the helmet for whatever reason and the reader closes their eyes to make the admin feel comfortable and all that, but then he puts his hand over their eyes to keep them closed and finally kisses them, it being their "first kiss" (that isn't just the reader giving a peck onto his helmet)

Just overall fluffy and romantic with them being idiots in love :D

Oh my fricking god this idea is absolutely so adorable

A kiss?

𝑿𝒊𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒊𝒅 𝒙 𝑮𝑵! 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓

-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-

Warnings ⚠: None :)

Relationship/s: C!XisumaVoid/Reader

POV: Second POV

Category: Fluff, Romance

Summary: Where after a few weeks of dating, Xisuma decides to finally let his beloved have a kiss after they give him a gift he absolutely adored; only, with their eyes closed.

Proofread: nerp

Have fun reading this cute little oneshot! :D I deeply apologize if I'm there's a bit of mischaracterization- I haven't been keeping up with hermitcraft as of lately so I'm not sure if I missed something important that was probably necessary to add- anyways, enjoy!

-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-

-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-

(Let's start with a short backstory, shall we?)

Ever since you managed to get an invite to join Season ten of the infamous server, Hermitcraft, keeping up with the other players was a bit hard for you. You had joined in a bit late, so the others were much more ahead of you. Some of the Hermits would try to help you out and give you some stuff to help you get to where they were already, but you always politely declined saying that you had wanted to try and do stuff by yourself. They would be trying to convince you to accept, but they couldn't get through you no matter what.

However, there was one specific Hermit that was incredibly insistent on helping you. That Hermit was Xisuma, the server admin. He had noticed you struggling to keep up with the rest, he felt sympathetic and wanted to try and help you. He'd already heard from the other Hermits that you were a bit stubborn and would constantly deny help, but he was determined to help you. He'd try to sneak in something to help you in one of your chests, but you'd always end up catching him even if he used invisibility potions. You honestly began to adore how insistent he was on trying to help you, even if it was a tad bit annoying to deal with sometimes.

After probably a few weeks of Xisuma trying to help you, you finally cracked and gave in. Even if he had the helmet on, you could tell just how happy and relieved he was to see you finally accepting help. He'd help you out with gathering resources, getting better armour and tools and more. While he was helping you, the two of you got to talk to each other more and get to know each other more.

"Wait, so you've never taken off your helmet infront of anyone? Like, no one has ever seen your face?" You asked curiously, leaning against a workbench as you waited for the ores you had gathered a bit ago to smelt

"Nope! I sort of just never showed anyone, not even close friends. I've kept it that way ever since I joined the server." Xisuma answered giving a slight shrug, repairing a hole in the ground that was made by a creeper exploding

"Well, that's interesting to know." The two of you would continue to chat about different stuff aside from just Xisuma's mask, one of you would occasionally make a joke related to the topic and the other would either laugh or just let out a chuckle. Eventually, the whole gathering resources trip had been just completely abandoned as you and Xisuma were just bonding together at this point, not even realizing how long the conversation has been going for. You somehow never managed to get bored talking to Xisuma, that went the same for Xisuma aswell. The two of you were just enjoying each other's presence, chatting about life and fun little stories. At one point though, Xisuma would realize the time and would begin to apologize profusely for forgetting about helping you. You on the other hand was not too bothered by it, reassuring him that it was fine. You wanted to continue talking to him, but it was quite late in the evening so Xisuma had to go. It disappointed you just a tad bit, but you didn't complain or protest as you waved goodbye to the admin. Watching him turn and leave, a slight saddened expression forming on your face as you did

"Seems like someone's already missing a certain admin!~" A voice spoke from behind you, startling you extremely as you quickly turned around to see Skizz right there. It scared the living heck out of you to suddenly just seeing him behind you, you had to take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down

"Skizz?! When did you get there and how long have you been watching?!" You were glaring at him, blushing from embarrassment after finding out that Skizz was there all along

"Passed by here a few minutes ago and heard some chattering, I checked where it was coming from and saw you and X chatting! The two of you looked so cute together I just had to keep watching! And from what I saw after he left, you seemed to be so sad, I had to speak up!" Skizz spoke in his usual enthusiastic voice with a twinge of teasing, snickering to himself

"I am not sad- I am perfectly fine, I do not miss Xisuma one bit!" You denied what Skizz was saying despite knowing he was right, you turned towards the crafting table and craft something that you remembered you needed for later

"Sure, whatever you say." Skizz teased with a shrug, he'd continue to tease you for a bit before he'd eventually have to leave aswell since it was late and he still needed to do something. You were thankful that he didn't tease you for so long, you did not enjoy his playful bullying one bit. You'd go inside of your makeshift home to go sleep already, it was probably best if you slept already so that you could get up early tomorrow to start working on your base already. However, as soon as you laid in your bed, your thoughts began to get consumed by the memory of your bonding time with Xisuma. It kept you awake for a while until eventually, you managed to push it aside and fall asleep.

The next day, you found out that Skizz may or may not have told some of the hermits about what he saw with you and Xisuma. And now, the teasing increased even more now with Hermits other than Skizz teasing you. Some of them teasing you about the fact that out of everyone, Xisuma was the one that got you to crack, jokingly saying that you had a little crush on the admin. This went on for days and days, Xisuma was completely oblivious to it as he kept helping you out and hang out with you. Even if you tried to avoid him to get the Hermits to stop bullying you, you couldn't help but always accept Xisuma's offers to hang out/help you.

With Xisuma helping you, you managed to get your base done within just a few weeks. Having someone help you definitely made things easier, Xisuma even taught you a few building tricks he knew. Within that amount of time that Xisuma was helping, you found out more things about him while also growing a close bond with him. You'd find yourself messaging him yourself, asking him if he'd want to hang out since you were mostly fine already. You'd always get sad when you watched him leave to either do something or just going back to his base since it was late. Hell, you'd find yourself thinking about him late at night and how kind he was. Okay, maybe you were developing a tiny crush on him now.. Oddly enough, you would tell a bunch of this to Skizz since he was mostly the first one to actually see you and Xisuma bonding together. He'd help you figure out just how big of a crush you had on Xisuma, and boy was it big. Skizz would begin to try and encourage you to confess your feelings to the admin, but you were too scared to possibly ruin your guys' friendship.

And oh boy, when the other Hermits found out? The teasing did not decrease at ALL. You had to deal with it every. Single. Time. you went to visit one of the Hermits. Even with all your denying, they knew the truth and saw right through your lies.

Eventually, you began to notice Xisuma seemingly avoiding you now? He'd often only have short conversations with you before abruptly excusing himself saying that he had to go do something, or he'd avoid bumping into you. You really felt upset now, you'd always be seen more down since Xisuma sort of stopped hanging out with you. While you were blind to it, the Hermits weren't. They knew damn well what was going on, and they honestly found it amusing on how both of you seemed to be so oblivious to one another's feelings. Despite how funny it was to watch, they knew that they had to do something about this.

Long story short, the Hermits send each of you a letter pretending to be the other and you and Xisuma end up meeting up. Confusion gets to both of you, but one thing lead to another and you both confessed at the same time, unintentionally of course. And yeah! You and Xisuma became a couple :3

-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-

(Moving on to the actual thing now.)

Ever since you and Xisuma got together, you two decided to connect bases so you two won't be too far apart from each other. Xisuma had actually suggested it since he would often miss you a lot when he had to go, same for you aswell. So, now that you two are living with each other, you guys got more chances to show more affection to each other. While you didn't get to kiss Xisuma on the lips, you still got to kiss over his helmet which was fine with you since you knew why Xisuma didn't want to take his mask off, and you absolutely respected him.

You never asked to lift his helmet up, you completely understood his privacy and you let him not take his helmet off so he wouldn't feel any discomfort. You'd always cover your eyes or turn around when he needs to remove it for a quick second, you really didn't want to make Xisuma uncomfortable which is why you were turning around and all. Xisuma was really glad that you understood instead of forcing him to take it off, you were so understanding and kind, that's why he loved you so much.

Despite you having already accepted that you're probably not gonna see Xisuma's face for a while, you couldn't help but wonder what he looked like. He's described some of his features already, so you tried your best to imagine how he looked like from what he's described so far. You can see his eyes atleast, that makes imagining it a bit easier for you.

Moving on, one day, you decided to make a gift for your beloved since you realized you never actually re-payed him after he helped you. You chose to build a teddy-bear that was holding a heart with banners on it spelling out "I love you", you don't know why but you decided to make this build quite big but not bigger than yours and Xisuma's base. You spent days gathering materials, telling your lover that you were just gathering some stuff for one of the Hermits. He was suspicious, but didn't question it too much.

Once you finally gathered all the necessary resources, you got up early in the morning and you built a box to cover up your building area so that Xisuma wouldn't see what you were doing. After the box was built, you got to work on the teddy bear. It surprisingly took only a few hours, guess you were getting used to building already. Still inside the box, you took a step back and looked at your work proudly, you honestly couldn't believe you managed to get this done in a few hours only but you were proud of yourself. You'd then send a message to Xisuma, saying not to come out of the base or look outside the windows for a bit. Once he responded, you quickly got to work on getting rid of the box which took you about ten minutes.

And so, when there was no more box, you went inside the base and told Xisuma you had a surprise. He was confused but also excited to see his surprise, he asked why you decided to surprise him with something, to which you responded just saying that you wanted to repay him for helping you out back then.

You lead him out the door, covering his eyes- or well the part of his helmet that allows him to see with your hands so that he wouldn't see the surprise immediately. You brought him over right in front of the build you made, waiting for a few seconds before lifting your hands off the area on his helmet to let him see the surprise. Xisuma looked at the build for a few seconds, seeming to be absolutely in awe of the teddy bear you built. He took a few moments to admire it, also seeing the banners spelling out "I love you" made his heart warm. He'd eventually look back to you

"You made this for me?" Xisuma asked in slight disbelief, to which you nodded

"Yep! Like I said, I wanted to kind of repay you for helping me catch up to everyone else. You always help me even if I keep declining your help, and I really wanted to show you just how much I appreciated it by building this." You explained with a smile, you could already tell just how happy Xisuma was on how you made this for him. He'd stay silent for a few moments before suddenly putting your hands on your eyes, without having time to react, you felt a pair of lips against yours so suddenly. Was.. Was it Xisuma's lips? Of course it was. Once you realized it was him kissing you, you happily kissed him back. You couldn't see, but you didn't mind since you finally to feel your sweetheart's lips against yours. Sure, it wasn't the way you imagined how your guys' first kiss would go, but this was better to you either way. It was better than probably having to wait for years for this to happen anyways.

Eventually, Xisuma would pull away panting and trying to catch his breath. He saw the dumb smile you had on your face, which made him smile even more. He'd place his helmet back on and take his hands of your eyes, revealing your eyes being filled with love and adoration as you saw him again. You honestly could care less if you looked like an idiot, you just got kissed by your lover and that was all you wanted. Xisuma would hold you close to him, keeping you in an embrace as he leaned his head on yours

"I love you."

"I love you too."

Even if you couldn't see his face right now, you could figure he probably also has the same dumb smile you have on your face. You may not be able to see his face, but you will still always love him. Gods, you two were truly idiots in love. <3

-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-☾✶☽-

Yippee! You reached the end! This is probably one of the longest ones I did. I think I made the background a bit too long- but anyways

Hope you enjoyed reading that :D

My writing skills are a tad bit rusty so I hope you guys don't mind if the writing is a bit odd!

Have a lovely morning/afternoon/evening reader! See you again next time <3

[alexxncl]

‼️NIGHTBRINGER LESSON 40 SPOILERS‼️

masterlist | all lessons | season 2 | season 3 | lesson 39 | lesson 41.1 | lesson 41.2

the end of an era (season 2)

normal and hard spoilers

oh baby :(

see every time i remember how sheltered diavolo is it makes me hate his father that much more. he grew up with everything in the world, but practically nobody to share it with.

diavolo had to have been smart enough to have caught onto the reason behind mephisto's attachment to him at an early age. he might be dense, but he's not stupid. even if he and mephisto did end up becoming really good friends, diavolo knew early on that their proximity was for business and royalty purposes only, and that friendship and a genuine relationship was second to their professional relationship

i feel like this is why he initially thought of the brothers as treasures in regard to status rather than as people, and the mindset shifted to seeing them as treasures in regards to the relationship he formed with them. he wanted genuine connection, but forming a professional connection before a genuine relationship was so deeply ingrained in him that he defaulted to it without even realizing it

...he can't be fucking serious

GET HIM OUT I BEG

he would've done this regardless of the option we picked during the angel's trial i hate it here...can't he take a class or smth instead of experimenting on us

i'm gonna kill him /j

i'm a whore in the game so i technically date everyone at once. but why does he NEVER say i love you back ????? not even in the first game ????????

like ok you're a time demon who shouldn't get attached to anyone and you choose to stay unattached bc you'll lose everyone anyways blah blah blah but at least indulge me a little bit 💔

SOBS UNCONTROLLABLY I LOVE THEM

i feel like they know this is their last goodbye yk? obviously barbatos does, but this feels very, very final on their part. maybe it's a different version the feeling they have when they go into mc's room, like they can feel mc being pulled away from them physically

what if the end of the lesson or the story in the hard part of the lesson is them portalling back to their timeline and the brothers getting a glimpse of their alternate selves? and then everything clicking into place after mc leaves?

the fact that simeon has as many doubts about his father's intentions as lucifer and his brothers did really solidifies my belief that he wanted to, in the worst case, fall with the brothers. and if he didn't fall, he'd at least have begged for answers as much as lucifer did before the war. he was demoted after the war for helping the brothers in canon, and i feel like he still beats himself up about it because of the side he chose. him and raphael both, but raphael is better at hiding it

(i have a whole post about simeon and michael before the war here)

i've said this about a million times but...

the brothers ever 🫶🏽

they're such shitheads but also extremely concerned i love their dynamic sm

SEE I TOLD YOU ‼️ HE MASKS HIS FEAR WITH ANGER (even though i'm pretty sure this was confirmed in canon in the og game and in nb s1)

him admitting that he was scared though? putting his pride aside and actually talking about his feelings for once? this is proof of how much he trusts mc, how much he loves and cares for them, even if he can't explain why the feelings he holds for them are so strong

it also shows that he's thankful to have someone who will care about and protect his brothers as much as he does, and some of the weight of the "oldest brother" mantle has been lifted. it allows him to be vulnerable and at least a little more carefree, which is why he's seen joking and laughing with his brothers so much more often in the later lessons in comparison to season 1 and early season 2

i feel like i'm SUPOOSED to reach bc why would he phrase it like that ??? i don't think he knows...but he's really intuitive

or maybe this was a way of the devs using him to unofficially-officially send us off and into our original timeline. idk. i'm reaching but they made me

THEY DID NOT

oh i'm really gonna cry...they took what we wrote in season 1 and showed it to the boys

i COMPLETELY forgot we even did this 😭 god i'm gonna cry i love this game sm

I KNEW NO TIME PASSED THANK GODDDDDD

i don't think i'd be able to handle it if the same amount of time passed across realms

i also think this is why they emphasized "time soup" so heavily, you can be put anywhere at any time as if nothing had changed

...i can't believe it's over

...for now at least

well time to read the HDD story and catch up on devilgram

[crowchemicals]

Things i think Lucifer would do while you're dating

♥︎fluffy fluff all over, sfw

✧ i don't think there's any warnings i should put here other than me projecting onto my favourite babygirl. and very soft Luci 🙏 (my personal religion)

☆ these are purely some scenarios i like to think about often in my lil fantasy world in my head, (and yes this is still and art account i don't write much<33)

• He keeps a list of things you like so he can get them for you. He's very observant, especially when it comes to his beloved, so if he sees something catch your eye while on an outing or you've liked/shared an item on your story/ saved something pretty to pinterest (which he follows but won't admit it. it's not like he really uses the app for anything other than gift ideas for you anyway) he will keep it in mind and write it down in his notes app when you're not looking/there.

• He brings you flowers every week. He learns flower language so he can give you the most meaningful bouquets he can. When they start wilting he immediately replaces them with fresh ones, but he doesn't throw the bouquets away, he proudly displays them in vases around his study.

• You mentioned your favorite snack/sweets (that you can't find in the devildom) once in a conversation with Asmo that he overheard and since then he periodically goes up to the human world to stock up on them so you can have a treat whenever you like :)

• He asks you to do his nails one time as an excuse to get away from paperwork for a little bit and spend some time with you, and you both started gossiping and just talking about RAD, his brothers, etc, and this has since become a routine between you two, one day a week either in his room or yours you get together to sit on the floor while you do his nails and gossip

• he has awful night terrors and has no idea how to cope with them, of course he can't go telling anyone about them that would be embarrassing but he also doesn't want to worry anybody. he's the big brother he's not supposed to show any weaknesses so that his brothers have someone to rely on (shhh I'm projecting) so he distracts himself with work and music, he's lost too much sleep over these kind of nights. One night after you two had been dating for a while though he woke up in a cold sweat and while his first instinct was to go to your room there was something stopping him. So he turned to distracting himself again this time by putting on your favourite show/movie. And he continues doing this every time he has a nightmare until he feels comfortable sharing such vulnerability with you. He finds it oddly comforting even if it's a genre he wouldn't typically enjoy, remembering you talking so fondly about it gives it a different kind of vibe, sometimes depending on how exhausted he is or how bad the night terror was he'll fall asleep with it in the background.

• Takes interest in your hobbies and makes sure you never run out of supplies and new things to try out. And if he sees you eyeing anything relating to your craft or a game or ANYTHING REALLY you'll have it the next day

• Will ask you to come do your work/chill in his study while he's working as a way to spend time together, in the beginning he says it's bc you'll be able to focus better since no one will disturb you there and there's less noise but later he realises that your presence helps him be more productive so when he feels his motivation and focus slip he'll come into your room to do the rest of his paperwork next to you or if you're sleeping in his bedroom that night he'll come work at his desk there, as long as he can be near you he has a reason to finish his work faster.

• Lucifer being an exhausted older sister™️, never really gets to let his guard down so when he trusts you enough he'll finally let his mask slip and give up control for a moment (something all of us wish we could do tbh). someone go bigspoon this man he needs it.

• ^ so he likes to walk up to your/his bed after a long day and just plop on top of you in his pjs and demon form, he knows he's heavy, he knows you were reading but tbh he doesn't care he needs to be held right this instant. bonus points for you if play with his wings, scratch his head esp near the horns or rub his back. you're never getting rid of him now.

• he's so interested by everything you tell him, you wanna explain the plot of a new book in excruciating detail? tell him all the hot gossip you've been hearing from your friends at RAD/Asmo? Make him watch a 10 season long show while explaining every minor thing? go ahead, he will literally give you his full attention if he's not swarmed with paperwork. he'll remember 99.9% of what you tell him too.

[explorationsoftheid]

Autism: A Senior Perspective

Recently there was a post on here where someone was saying how everyone automatically hates us because of our autism. How they may act nice to our face, but trash talk us once we’re out of earshot. How everyone will abuse, even kill us, because they can’t stand our autism. I replied that they were just wrong about that. That everyone doesn’t automatically hate us.

The more I thought about it though, the more I saw this was an opportunity for those of us who are older and are autistic, to share our perspectives, our experiences. I think it might help those who are young to know what we went through, how we coped, how our lives have turned out. Most importantly that it can get better.

I’ll start:

I’m 62 years old. Looking back with what I know now it’s clear that I was definitely autistic as a child. Today, my teachers would have pressed to get me tested, but in the 1970s, well autism wasn’t on anyones radar. I doubt my parents would have gone along with that anyway. They were the, “Straighten up and do what you’re supposed to”, and “Boys don’t cry” attitude so common of their generation. I had significant trouble with social interactions, I stuttered, and fought like hell to not melt down in loud and overwhelming situations. Public school was unfortunately full of those. I liked procedure and process, there was a right way and a wrong way to do things and I would get upset if someone broke ‘the rules’. I would obsess over particular subjects. Actually I drove some of my teachers nuts. They would give me a writing assignment and I would turn in a top quality report, but I would have somehow twisted what they wanted into what I wanted to write about.

High School was very confusing. People started dating and going to dances, and all that. I kept asking, only half as a joke if I had missed a class or something because it was all so strange to me. I went off to University and really did well there. My grades weren’t good, (I had to work well over full time to afford to stay in school) but I loved academia. The order, the quiet of the library, being able to study a subject that I was totally onto because I had chosen it as my major. The people I worked with, at all of my jobs, grew to understand my ‘quirks’ and were fine with them. I only wish I hadn’t had to work so much. My middling grades meant that by the time I graduated, I was mentally exhausted, and didn’t qualify for Grad School.

So, I got a job and had to move across the country. There I met someone who I have spent the succeeding 36 years with. They understand me, accept that sometimes I’m a bit odd. Sometimes I react badly to things. Sometimes I just have to say no, and they roll with that.

So I’m now approaching retirement. In the last few years I finally figured out that autism was the reason for all the trouble I’ve had over the years. I’m not lazy, or dumb, or anything like that, I’m autistic. I’m neurodivergent, and that’s the way it is. The worst time frankly was in my childhood and my teens. Since then I’ve learned how to deal with the world. I’ve found people who like me for me, people I don’t have to mask or put on an act around. I’ve found other autistic people and am not the only one anymore. I figured out what jobs suited my talents, and limitations (Retail? No! Computer Wizard or someone who makes things work in the background? Yes!) I’m approaching retirement and honestly things are going pretty well now.

So fellow Autistic Seniors, (That is to say anyone that thinks of themselves as older than most), what was your experience living your life as an autistic person? How have things turned out for you? What advice would you give to children or teens that are struggling to cope?

[captain-mj]

Can we get a cowboy hat rule one short with a shop of your choice? Or a part 3 for the stripper AU did Ghost finish thinking about Soaps offer of dating? 👉👈🥺

Part 1 Part 2

Stripper au!! I can definitely do that!! They fuck in this one finally

Alejandro threw open Soap's office door before closing it with just as much gusto. "I have a date with Rodolfo!!"

Soap smiled. "That's great!"

Alejandro nodded. "I'm so happy. Something must have changed his minds, but he's finally said yes."

Soap had a funny feeling of a certain Simon Ghost Riley was behind it but he didn't say anything. "Good. Where do you plan on taking him?"

"Nicest restaurant I can. I'm going to be woo him." Alejandro grinned.

Soap nodded. "Have fun dude! I'm happy for you." He watched Alejandro leave, going straight to Gaz's office. Once he was sure he was gone, he texted Ghost. "Thanks for Ale."

"It was mostly for myself. Rudy was upset he hadn't come back in a few days. Said I could pull some strings if he'd finally ask the guy out."

"Well, thanks anyway."

"Of course, Johnny."

Soap stared at the text message for a minute, trying to think of a response when Ghost sent a follow up text.

"I've been thinking."

"Made a decision?"

"You really have no ulterior motive other than getting dicked down. It's funny."

"No, no. Not just dicked down. I want to wine and dine you too."

Ghost took a while to respond. "You a gentleman, huh? Alright. Come to my office."

Soap rushed out and over to Ghost's office. He knocked excitedly and Ghost opened the door. His mask was up and he was in a dark green cardigan that looked oversized despite how big he was.

Simon was... well. Dorky. Soft. Always dressed in comfy but still dark clothing.

Johnny felt such a rush of affection for him. Simon lost a tiny bit of the confidence he had when he saw the lovestruck look on Johnny's face.

"Stop that."

"Stop what?"

"Being sappy. Do I have to take my shirt off to seem cool to you?"

"Nah, but I do think it would be nice."

Simon rolled his eyes and motioned for him to come in. Johnny did what he was supposed to and followed after him, grinning like an idiot.

Ghost sighed and locked the door. "Fine. I'll date you. Only because you've been so cute about it."

Soap threw his hands up in a cheer before quickly bringing them back down when Ghost turned to look at him. He got to see him laugh.

Simon took his mask off carefully. "It's okay. If you need to do a little celebration, I'd love to watch." The scarring. It look old, clearly stuff from childhood even if Soap couldn't think of a reason why a child would have a snake that close to their face.

Johnny smiled. "Nae, I'm much more interested in the bonnie in from of me."

"Bonnie?"

"Means pretty."

Soap felt his heart skip a beat in his chest at Ghost's blush. His whole face turned red, all the way down his neck. "Shut up."

"Aye? You're bashful?"

Ghost scoffed but he couldn't hide it.

Soap grabbed his cardigan carefully, not wanting to move too fast just yet. "You do look nice. Thought I'd say it in the Queen's english in case you had any doubts."

Ghost looked down at him and shook his head. "I'm already regretting my decision."

Before Soap could think of something clever or even something smart, Ghost leaned down a little. He kissed Soap's cheek. "Maybe you can give me the lap dance next time. So we're even."

Soap turned bright red and had to look away.

Ghost laughed. "Now who's a bashful bonnie."

Soap swiped at him and laughed. "Oh fuck off. So our first date."

"I was thinking right now. Coffee."

"This is why you're the man for me, Ghostie."

Ghost hit his shoulder but without his mask, Soap could see him blushing. Before they departed, Ghost unfortunately put the mask back on, fortunately though, he did let Soap get a kiss before he did.

Soap followed him like a moth to a particularly bright lamp. He sat with him at a coffeeshop and ordered his drink before talking with him for a few minutes.

Then hours.

Then it hit night and they were still there. Talking.

The poor barista had to gently tell them they needed to leave since the place was closed.

"Want dinner?" Soap asked, smiling at him.

Ghost nodded. "I could eat."

Somehow, they ended up at Soap's place. Soap was pressed to his counter, Ghost kissing frantically down his neck and chest.

Ghost picked him up by his thighs and put him on the counter, kissing him properly without having to lean down. He slotted perfectly between Soap's thighs.

Soap pulled away, putting his hand firmly on Ghost's chest. "Simon."

"Yes?"

"I don't actually know how to lap dance. I'd just sit there like a dead fish."

Ghost stared at him, almost unnervingly long before kissing him. "God you're such a loser."

"Hey-"

Ghost started to unbutton his pants and Soap quickly shut up. He closed his eyes and groaned once Ghost finally got a hold of him. He had been thinking of this moment for weeks. Ever since he saw those leather bound thighs and lovely abs.

Soap had to stop him again though and Ghost glared, clearly telling him he better not be making another joke. "Don't want your hands."

Ghost leaned in, noses bumping each other. He then threw Soap over his shoulder and carried him towards the bedroom. He dropped Soap on the bed, watching him bounce before going through his drawers. "Where do you keep your lube?"

"Bottom drawer."

"Good boy."

Soap groaned and started to kick off all of his clothing. He grabbed one of his pillows and got comfortable on his stomach.

Ghost looked him over appreciatively once he found his target. He got on top of Soap and pressed him down a little. With one hand, he pulled his ass up, squeezing.

His hands were skillful and patient as they got Soap ready. Soap was not patient at all, thrashing and pushing himself back and telling Ghost to please speed it up.

Ghost ignored him, working him open over and over again. He took the rest of his clothing off and set it on top of Soap's clothing. He laid on top of him and pushed in, holding Soap in a death grip.

Soap buried his face in the pillows and groaned. "Holy fuck you're big." He arched his back, determined to get Ghost as deep as he could.

Ghost put his hand on the back of Soap's neck to pin him and rocked his hips gently. "Thank you. People at the club certainly like it."

Soap's eyes flashed and then narrowed. He pressed further back and grabbed Ghost's other hand, kissing it. The two of them moved back and forth in sync, something just working between them.

Soap groaned and his body tightened when he tensed. Ghost pressed tighter against his back and, although he was quiet, he was right in Soap's ear so he could hear him. Small groans and curses.

Soap bit his wrist and he arched. He tried his best to be quiet, but Ghost was dragging out noises Soap didn't know he was capable of making. Every thrust or grind was in just the right spots and Soap was pretty sure he only lasted as long as he had out of the fear of embarrassing himself.

Ghost sped up though and Jesus wept.

Soap came hard, untouched and so flustered he was sure Ghost could tell it wasn't all from exertion.

Ghost breathed gently right next to his ear. "Good lad. Let it all out for me."

Fucking hell.

Soap closed his eyes and felt his cock twitch.

"Is it okay if I come inside?"

He nodded quickly and bit the pillow as Ghost slammed into him. His eyes rolled back as he started to get overstimulated but he wanted, needed, Ghost to finish in him.

Ghost wrapped both arms around him and buried his face in his hair as he came, squeezing tight.

Soap reached up and ruffled his hair.

[pineapplehazard]

8x04 spoilers!!

Aaaaah i loved it, the whole thing!! I missed the silly interventions!!!!

- Henren : I'm so glad that Mara can finally go home to her moms and her brother!!!! (yes I saw the promo for ep5, but I'm gonna live in denial until next week (: ). Though I gotta say, why did they go outside with Madney and Mara that was such a stupid move ���� (sorry).

- Gerrard: i do not consider this a redemption arc but shit, without him we wouldn't be where we are. I'm mad that he got an ending that is also satisfying for him, he SO doesn't deserves it!!!eurgh. The real reason everyone (mostly) is back where they belong is thanks to Bobby manipulating him but still, Gerrard shouldn't have a ending that he is pleased with eurgh.

Also how could Bobby do that to Brad? 😔💔 *sad british noises in the background*

- Buck : you perfect, intelligent man that you are giving Bobby a scare with the 'Little buddy' part of your bobby-therapy-session.....

- Chimney : looked so great, is so great, I love chimney, and it shouldn't but him with the gun did it for me!!

- Bobby and Athena : love that they're gonna rebuild, they could have had this idea around three months before though cause now they're gonna stay in that apartment for a little while longer... Also, I love Bobby being in love with Athena (and Athena with Bobby), they're adorable I love them

- Edmundo Diaz : first, I will never agree with Bobby on that mustache, I really really really appreciate it,, SO MUCH

Second, the angst is coming can you all feel it? I mean it's here already but a mountain of angst is building. Everyone's problems got resolved this episode, except for Eddie's one (and they couldn't resolve it so soon so that's normal but) meaning that at the end of the day, while The Wilsons and Hans were celebrating, and Athena and Bobby finally solved their house problem, (and Buck was... Idk ? Free of Gerrard? Can't really think of something here), and Wes and his father reunited.... Eddie went home and it was still just an empty house, because Chris is still in Texas and barely talking to him

So what if my heart broke when Wes called him Dad? Cause that's maybe the first time he's heard someone calling him that in a while...

On another note, I was worried he would go full Maddie-stalking-style with Wes' dad at first, maybe that's just because my brain loves finding parallels between Eddie and Maddie... Anyway, the whole talk with the dad about absent fathers, stupid masculinity stuff, and all. That was great.

'Masks' PROMO SPOILERS (i'm gonna try to stay evasive)

CAN'T WE LET THEM HAVE PEACE FOR AT LEAST ONE EPISODE??? ONE?? THAT'S SO F UP!!

Also I know it makes sense for ep4 to be 'No Place Like Home' but when next episode you have characters dressed like the Wizard of Oz's characters... Idk it feels like a miss, it doesn't sit well in my mind🤷‍♀️

If a 'friend od Dorothy' reference is made somehow throughout the episode I might combust

Also it feels weird that we got the synopsis so long before the airing and the synopsis focused a lot on Buck, when clearly the promo shows where focus might actually be... Bc when we have storyline like the one shown in the promo, usually you don't have to much time to put another character's storyline in focus in it. So Buck was probably to throw us, and he's just gonna be like believing there's ghosts or something like that...

Can't wait to know more about ep6 too!! The release date, stuff like that, I'm hyped!!

[ghostradiodylan]

hi hello i have been rotating dylan lenivy in my head like the microwave for a couple of weeks and especially how instead of lashing out or acting up at all when he’s late stage infected he just. he just gets scared by lights?? figures out how to work a crane?? saves kaitlyn?? will NOT let kaitlyn get hurt by him and he’s so scared but he’s so. my boy :(

Hi hello yourself! Thank you for this, I have been doing the same thing except for LIKE A YEAR. Someone help me. 💀

I just. I love him so much?

Like, he’s an actually perfect character?

In a game about choices, we aren’t even allowed to make any bad decisions with Dylan. Is that a flaw in the game design? Or a sign that some crucial decisions he could have been tasked with hit the cutting room floor with the other 20-30% of the script? Maybe. Does it make me love him for it any less? Absolutely fucking not.

He should be a threat to Kaitlyn, right? He should at least be a little bit pissed off at her, a little bit grumpy before he’s turning. God knows he deserves it. Can you imagine if she’s kissed his crush and he’s stuck with her for the rest of the night? Dylan obviously adores Kaitlyn, and he knows that sticking with her is his best chance at getting out alive, but those emotions would still be complicated, I would think. If the infection brings out hidden insecurities (which seems to be the case for literally everyone else), we should see Dylan grapple with not feeling like his real self is good enough, with wearing a mask for two months and hiding how smart he is and all of that.

I’m not sure why we don’t see that. We know his insecurities aren’t gone because they can come up again when he’s talking about whether Ryan would want to date him with one hand (I’m sobbing internally). The only reasonable explanation I can come up with is that he’s no longer hiding that insecurity with the people whose opinions matter the most to him (Ryan and Kaitlyn). So maybe the truth really will set you free (from being a super bitchy werewolf)? I almost wish we did see him go off a bit though. I wish we had at least some kind of chase scene in that scrapyard after he turned. It would give so much more weight to the decision to not cut his hand off, if it put him at risk of mauling his gunslinging bestie, our Final Girl.

But SMG chose for him to remain a golden boy throughout and of course that also has its charms. He has an immutable set of core values and those are being good and selfless, even when he’s terrified. Which is most of the game! And even though he gets braver, he very clearly doesn’t stop being scared! He just does what he has to do anyway. Even if he’s turning into a monster. Even if the boy of his dreams cut his hand off with a chainsaw (because he asked him to). I understand why people make him too perfect in fanfic sometimes because he’s, like, almost too good?

He has his moments early on, like wanting to keep the gun, or wanting to leave Nick and Abi behind in case what attacked them has their scents (tbh these are just his genre-savviness showing and I can’t actually blame him for either). He also gives Kaitlyn some very bad advice relating to silver bullets (kill a werewolf that turns out to be Emma, leave the bullets Abi is trying to give you behind), but she doesn’t have to take it.

But have you SEEN what he does if Emma turns and comes after Kaitlyn and Kaitlyn fails to shoot? He just fucking tackles a werewolf to save Kaitlyn. He puts himself between WereEmma and Kaitlyn like a human shield. If he’s infected, great, Emma sniffs him and leaves him alone but he is clearly shocked by that. He did not know that would happen. And he did it anyway. It was a reflex. And if he’s not infected? If he was never bitten at all or he’s missing a hand? He still does the exact same thing. He can take a second bite to protect Kaitlyn. He can get infected a second time after cutting his fucking hand off. He can die to protect her if she doesn’t manage to get a shot off to save him.

Lots of characters give us the option to be self-sacrificial. Ryan can give Laura the vial of werewolf blood to protect her during the Silas showdown. Jacob can run, barefoot and mostly naked, into the woods when he hears Abi scream. Abi can die by refusing to shoot her crush because she doesn’t know it won’t actually kill Nick if she does. But those are all choices. Dylan does not give us a choice. We’re not even in control when he does that shit. He just does it. Because that’s who he is.

I’m fine. I’m so completely fine.

[britt-kageryuu]

Leo is streaming. His model is in his Unicorn onesie, slippers, and mask. He's on his blue inflatable chair floating in a virtual pool. River is on a inflatable table next to him. He's doing an AMA, were viewers can redeem 'Turtle Treats' aka channel points to ask a question anonymously. There is a sign that lists some restrictions on the questions, and if you attempt you will just get your points back.

River: How are things going with your crush?

He turns quite red, and calms himself a bit.

Leo: Things are going fine! We run into each other every now and then at the Restuarant. We went on a couple dates. We don't want to put out to much about our relationship for privacy reasons. Okay next question!

River: Are going to go anywhere else after you finish school?

Leo: No, I really like the clinic, and want to stay there. Plus we have some big plans for the place, like we set up a little cafe type area in the waiting room for clients who might have to wait for their appointments!

A sign saying Sponsored/Not Sponsored by The Caffeinated Turtle Coffee and Tea swings down before 'breaking off' and falling out of frame. Leo looks confused.

Leo: Who keeps doing that? Anyway next question!

River: Are you into any anime/manga? Any favorite from your childhood?

Leo: Kinda for both. We didn't get many channels that had Anime on them when we were little, and it was a while before we got the internet installed, so we may have watched Pokémon, maybe some random DBZ, but didn't watch alot of it because of fighting over what to watch.

Leo pauses to take a drink before continuing.

Leo: But I have been watching some interesting ones recently, like Cells at Work, My Hero Academia, and Black Clover. Though all of us have our own tastes, and I won't tell you what the others like, ask them yourself. Next!

River: Do you have any odd house rules? Not game rules BTW.

Leo: Well this needs some explaining. Okay, a few years again we moved to our current home after an accident destroyed our old one. When we got here we started some renovations, like putting a huge tub in one of the bathrooms that fits all of us in it with room to spare! It looks like an Onsen. Well that left us with one actual Shower, since the huge tub is more for soaking than cleaning.

Another pause to take a drink and catch his breath.

Leo: So we are kinda extra, and tend to have Shower Concerts that last a long time. So if someone else wanted to shower after they would have to wait. So since no one wanted to try making a shower schedule, we now have a waterproof speaker in that bathroom that we can all control. So we play a set number of songs, or a really long song, and have to end our showers when they finish, or else we add an annoying song to the list.

River: Chat would like to say that's very weird.

Leo: Yeah, but it's that or scream at each other to get out of the Shower. Next question!

River: Do you know any other languages?

Leo: Yup! I know quite a bit of Spanish, but I'm a bit out of practice, so I might mess up my words. And we're all working on our Japanese. Dad didn't really teach us, because he didn't think he'd want to go back after leaving his family.

River: On that note, Do you have any family in Japan?

Leo: Maybe? We haven't really tried reaching or searching, because the last time Dad talked to anyone from his family was like, (he's trying to figure the right number) in like the 80's, 90's, and he doesn't really remember if he had any cousins, aunts, uncles, and the like. We might make some attempts in the future, but it's got to be an agreed upon decision. Next question please!

The stream went on for a while longer with chat getting very excited about this new information, and some trying to connect information, but some just get knocked out for obviously trying to dig for more personal information.

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

Masterpost

[zuffer-weird-girl]

Love Kai, but Hari needs some love too…

Sooo, Kai’s always busy so he sends Hari to take care and be with Angel. But what if arrowhead falls in love with her? And she also starts liking him back… since you know, her actual partner barely spends time with her. It’s kinda angsty but a fluffy end would be nice.

This has been on my head lately and since you’re one of my favorite authors in here, I gathered the courage to finally send in the ask. Feel free to ignore this request. Love your writing and take care! 💕

"I want you to be responsible for her safety Chronostasis." The dark haired male muttered while reading a few papers that were spread on his desk while the other one furrowed his eyebrows beneath his mask.

"Of course, but why exactly?" Aren't you her partner? He wanted to imply, but decided against it due to his better judgment.

"Being someone close to a yakuza member puts a lot of targets on their back, you should know that by now." He replied without any emotion on his face.

"I do understand that sir. Although as a friend speaking I think you should-"

"Just do what I say Chronostasis." He growled without sparing him a eye, leaving the white haired man to sigh in hopeless and leave the room with a yes sir.

.

.

Chrono has been keeping an eye on Overhaul's partner for about two months... and he swore he never saw a woman with so much loneliness and sadness on her eyes... yet, she carried such a beautiful smile when it came to the normal citizens and children or people she seemed to care about.

He was surprised that Kai was in a relationship with her to be honest... she seemed so out of his league.

One day, he accidentally eavesdrop that Overhayl had canceled one of their dates once again.. it was honestly heartbreaking to hear her sad sigh but soon recover with a fake small skile saying it was okay....

For some reason, he couldn't take this any longer... so he asked his boss to make her company asides from just protecting her from afar like a shadow.

Overhaul had allowed. Without much care.

"Excuse me? Ma'am?" He reunited forces to aproach her on the halls, observing how she flinched but soon looked at his masked face with wonder on why one of the subordinates was talking to her... without getting killed.

"Y-Yeah?"

"I'm sorry overhaul canceled plans with you. But I was wondering, if you want, I could take you to this place you were talking about." He scratched a bit the back of his head at seeing your shocked expression "I swear I'm not a stalker, I'm just a... close worker of your partner. So I happened to over hear it. I apologize if it perstubs you."

"Oh.. not at all!" You smiled, and he had to ignore how it made him smile too "I was hoping I could go there with anyone to be honest... but I don't have much friends and... he seems kinda busy these days" You laughed it off your sadness as usual.

"I'm going to take you there. Don't worry about the money as well. I'm sure it won't make us go more bankrupt as always anyway."

The laugh that left your lips almost felt surreal. He never heard you laugh like that before on those last few months.

.

.

"Can I ask something Chrono?"

"Well, you already did." He mumbled while sitting in front of you on the small outdoor café you had chosen this time. He had been taking you out for a while now.

You snorted at his comment before stirring up your drink with a straw with a feature of wonder.

"Were you the one watching me for these last few months?"

He choked on his own spit. Almost coughing before he reluctantly asked why you were asking this.

" I know I sound stupid sometimes, but I am not." You giggled with sadness "I noticed eyes on me... I was starting to think I was crazy for a second until I notice you with this weird mask watching from a corner some day.. immediately I knew it was one of the hassaikai. You guys seem to like these plague masks a lot."

"Actually no." He laughed it off his embarrassment "we actually hate it. But is Overhaul's choice so we mostly shut up and be quiet about it."

"Ah, it had to be him." You spoke with a smile "But you aren't exactly working right now so... can't you just.. take it off? Is like super hot today." You gesture with your hand at your own face while he scoffed.

"Kai would have my head if he knew this."

"I won't tell. Besides," You leaned on the table "I'm actually curious."

"Nothing fancy about my face but oh well-" He spoke before taking off his mask with a relieved sigh "It is hot, God damn..."

"Hmm..." You tilted your head a bit to the side before smirking "not bad."

"Oh shut up you." He chuckled, his red cheeks totally exposed now.

.

.

After months, you two had become close. Closer than what a bodyguard should be.. but he just can't help it. You had this personality that didn't fail it once to make him smile or worry when you would wear that sad expression.

He would feel guilty about his upcoming crush on you often... very often.

But sometimes... he swore he wanted to beat the shit out of chisaki every single time he found you crying after just a simply conversation with thr male in question that surely didn't even last 15 minutes.

"Am I that clingy? Just as he says?" You spoke between sniffles, watching with a sad expression the outside as he scoffed.

"No. You just want what anyone wants on a relationship... he is just..." he hissed a bit at daring to put more wood into the fire "A bit difficult."

"Just a bit..?" You muttered and he swore he felt his heart completely shatter.

In one second he was at your side and wiping away your tears as you yelped at how close he was so suddenly.

"You're not clingy... In fact, if it means something, I do enjoy your company the most. I actually l..-" he swallowed the words before he made something he possibly would regret "I think you're great. Don't let a minor fight affect your self estem that easily.."

You nodded in awe... never your own boyfriend did that. Made you feel better about some insecurity of yours..

In fact... now thinking about it, Kai never made you feel so at home like... Kurono did.

Oh no.

.

.

.

Months have passed and one day he catched you and Overhaul talking. For a very long time to be exactly.

You left with a more at ease expression quickly greeting him before leaving the house. He arched an eyebrow before he noticed how Chisaki was frozen in place but had still his usual neutral expression on.

Something had happened...

.

.

The break up was, by surprise of many, very calm and with no tantrums come from both parts of you nor Chisaki. Although you did visited the hassaikai still due to how Pops actually liked you... and Kurono.

It didn't take long for Chrono to finally open up about the issue. He was actually afraid of the out come... but he had to be honest with his friend.

"I don't care. She is single now, isn't she?" He muttered after a very tense talk about if he could or not invite you to dinner.

"You're sure about that? It won't bring-"

"Just get out." The dark male hissed, and for the first time Chrono just ignored the threat on his voice and went after you with hope you could accept his offer.

.

.

"We could go to the theme park!" You yelped in joy as he chuckled while shaking his head.

"The last time we went on one of those you were complaining about how your feet hurt. You sure about that?"

You nodded with pout while walking alongside him. His girlfriend of now five months.

"The last time it was because of my stupid decision of wearing those heels... seriously what went through my head to do that?" You whined out loud as he laughed.

It was good until you both bumped into someone...

"Hey Kai." Chrono spoke a bit in worry as you looked up to see the face of your ex.

"Hello Chisaki. How have you been?" You asked politely while the man in question just looked at you both with irritation before sighing.

"Good." He spoke before storming out of the hall, leaving you both to just shrug your shoulders and go on about your day as usual.

.

.

He closed the door before finally sitting down on the bed with the heaviest sigh he could muster. His hands rubbed his face continuously to get rid of the burning sensation he was feeling behind his eyes as he exhaled and inhaled in hopes to calm his beating heart.

After a few minutes he took a deep breath once again before taking a small red velvet box from the cabinet before laying down on the bed... staring at the ring on it with disgust... even though the small tear that left his right eye said otherwise.

"Now what the hell am I suppose to do with this?" Kai muttered in the loneliness of his room.. knowing damn well how you were much happier with the man that treated you better than he did.

[spectrechosts]

Dressed Up To The Eyes - Chapter 4

This is still salvageable, Dusa did say she likes her.

Full Series

"Quit fucking avoiding me, Dusa."

Jester had cornered her in the hangar after a mission. She had to hide in a fucking crate because Medusa wouldn't leave her goddamn mech until she thought she was gone.

"Jester."

"Don't you fucking 'Jester' me. I like you."

"You like a girl that you imagined when you saw a mask." Medusa said, emotionless.

"She can sit and spin, I like you."

"Jester. You know nothing about me. Pretending was fun, move on."

Medusa looked weary. Pained. And that was absolute horseshit in Jester's opinion.

"Why are you so fucking sure I can't like you, huh?" She asked, pissed that anyone, even Dusa herself, thought that she was unlovable.

"Jester."

"Tell me!"

"This whole thing started because you thought I might be pretty under the mask."

"No, this whole thing started because I know your eyes are pretty. You planning on fucking getting rid of them?"

"No."

"So what's the issue here?"

Medusa folded her arms, frustrated.

"I cannot give you what you want. Lack the parts. Brain in a fucking jar, Jester."

"I'll manage, Dusa. Let me try." Jester pleaded.

"Why."

"Because I want to!"

"You pity me." Medusa said, and tried to walk away.

"Hey! I'm not done talking to you! Don't fucking give me that!"

Jester cut her off again, furious.

"Do you think I'm that fucking shallow? Is that it?"

"No."

"You think I think less of you now?"

"No."

"Do you, do you not like me?"

"I like you fine. Already told you that." Medusa said, averting her eyes.

"Cool. We're going on a date."

"Jester."

"Give me one good fucking reason we shouldn't. And don't try telling me it's because I don't want to."

Medusa fidgeted, refused to look at her.

"Liked this better when I was in charge."

"Hey, play your cards right and I'll beg you to do more weird robo-domme shit. Now c'mon, I have a movie and popcorn at my place."

~

Medusa sat on the edge of Jester's bunk, eyes on a laptop paused on the title screen of the newest godawful military blockbuster.

"Um, okay it just occurred to me to ask, can you eat popcorn? Or anything?" Asked Jester, fiddling with her shitty microwave.

"No. Thought that counts."

"Okay. Drink? I've seen you making tea, you must be able to drink."

"Can drink."

"Beer?"

"Cannot become intoxicated."

"…Don't suppose you like the taste?"

"I do not."

"I could make coffee?"

"Sure."

She filled up the coffee machine and flicked it on. Watched it bubble in silence for a minute.

"I'm- I'm gonna put my foot in my mouth here, but I just want to understand. What exactly is uh. Your whole, situation? You don't have to answer."

"Extremely classified."

"Okay, yeah, that's cool-"

"Tell you anyway."

"Coool. Cool cool cool." Jester said, internally freaking the fuck out.

"Direct pneumatic hammer blow to the cockpit. Most of body pulverized. Died almost instantly."

"Died?"

"Extremely classified. Very good pilot. Brain intact. Wake up few months later in government black site, new body. Good enough to ship back out, lacking human elements."

"Holy shit, Dusa."

Medusa nodded. "Talk normally in my mind. Gets sent through second rate neural interface, sound like robot caveman." She closed her eyes. "I can manage just robot if I focus, but it takes effort."

"Damn."

She nodded again. "Minimum viable product. Enough to pilot."

"And you still need to drink? And what, eat nutrient paste? You don't just have batteries?"

Medusa shook her head. "Have batteries. Brain still thinks it needs food and sleep, freaks out."

"That sucks."

"Yeah."

The coffee was done. She poured two mugs and brought them over, handed one to Medusa. Watched as she removed her face, grabbed the edge of her throat tube and pulled it out, unspooling it until it dangled out of her head like a straw.

"…Huh."

"Do not have to watch." Medusa said, looking away out of embarrassment.

"It's fine, just wasn't really sure what to expect."

Medusa dipped the straw into her mug.

"Needs sugar."

"I might have a few packets around?"

Medusa waved her off. "Not important."

"So you can still taste things?"

"Tube has sensors."

"Any particular preferences I should stock up on?"

"Getting ahead of yourself. First date."

"I'm hopeful." Jester shrugged. "Dusaaa. You say I know nothing about you, tell me shit about you."

Medusa shrugged.

"Sweet things. Tea with sugar. Juice. Not orange. Taste is fine, pulp clogs filter."

"You know, people tell me I'm sweet. Would you like a taste?" Jester said suggestively.

"Jester." Medusa said, looking at her warily.

Jester tenderly took the tube in her hand, pressed her mouth to the end in an approximation of a kiss. She gently pressed the tip of her tongue into the opening, wiggled it around.

Medusa looked at her like she had two heads.

"Jester. What the fuck."

"Yeah, I, uh-" Jester said, letting go and turning away. "That- In my head that was, sexy? I guess?"

"Never again."

"Yeah that was so weird I'm sorry. Movie time?"

"Movie time."

[weilongfu]

GunCher: Someone calls Cher a gold digger on his live, and it upsets him. Cue good boyfriend Gun.

To anyone who had functioning eyes, it was obvious when Cher was not in his usual chipper mood. Sure, Cher was good at putting on an act, all high volume and exaggerated movement, but there would always be something missing, a puppet that moved quite well but for one little thing.

For Gun, it was more obvious that something was wrong in the way Cher sought comfort. It was the way the gamer curled up on himself, inviting a hug in bed without hugging back. It was the way Cher balked at Gun buying something to cheer him up, but looked pleased anyway despite the pout on his lips. It was the way Cher's touch was distant and unfeeling, even in the midst of a kiss.

Gun knew that Cher could hold on to a secret if he truly wanted to, the other man's loud persona was reality and mask in one. The truth hides the lie and the lie is the truth. But Gun also knew that this level of hurt, especially so plainly writ on Cher's demeanor was one that demanded intervention, especially since reaching for his wallet had the response of Cher flinching.

Tucked away in their own private booth at one of Cher's favorite higher end restaurants that Gun had taken him to for one of his many allotted expensive dates, Gun found he had no choice but to intervene since Cher had started frowning the minute Gun asked for the wine menu.

"What's wrong? We always order wine here," Gun asked as he waved the waiter away.

"It's expensive," Cher replied sharply. "Just have water today."

"You've never been bothered by the price of wine before."

"Maybe I've decided to be frugal."

"But I'm paying for dinner." Gun leaned in. "Do you need money? Did Thup's tuition go up?"

"Not everything is about money," Cher muttered lowly. "I can manage my finances."

"And I can manage mine enough to pay for a bottle of wine, Cher. What are you actually upset about?"

"I'm upset you just keep spending money on me for no reason! You spend so much, even my viewers point it out and one called me a gold digger!"

Gun leaned back. "Excuse me?"

Cher deflated and rubbed his forehead. "I was talking the other day about how you were a good boyfriend and helped me with a few things and someone called me a gold digger and said I was taking advantage of you because you're rich."

Gun frowned. It wasn't that Gun opted to foot the bill nine out of ten times because he believed Cher couldn't manage his own finances or support himself. Cher had managed that and to put another boy barely younger than himself through college while supporting his mother out in their village for years. But Gun had plenty of money, money that could make life comfortable and ease burdens that Cher had to carry. Gun liked anything that made his boyfriend's life less miserable and allowed him to spend more time together, so spending money to make Cher's life less miserable was not a thing Gun avoided by any means. And it wasn't as if Cher had a large habit of asking for things outside his own budget. It was often Gun wondering why Cher needed a new MMO mouse (he slammed it against his desk too many times because of an Overwatch match) or why there was a receipt for two thousand baht worth of Korean fried chicken in Cher's desk drawer (Cher had filmed another mukbang while Gun was away on a business trip) and asking Cher to justify the expense for his personal budget.

Gun came back from his thoughts to find himself clenching a fist in his lap and Cher stabbing a piece of baguette. "Do you think you're taking advantage of me?"

"...no." Cher's stabbing continued. "But with how you say yes all the time, it feels like I am."

"I have lots of money. Your video game ideas helped me earn some of that money." Gun consciously tried to relax his own fist before reaching over to stop Cher's torture of food. "I like spending that money to make your life easier."

"So I am a gold digger."

"A gold digger would be dating me because of my money. Are you dating me just for my money?"

"Of course not!" Cher scowled and crossed his arms, thankfully dropping his knife in the process. "I chased you and tried to make you more human and less moneybags. Dating you for your money was the last thing on my mind!"

"Then you're not a gold digger and you should ban that jerk from your stream platform." Gun reached over to pull Cher's face close. "I love you, I spend money on you because I want to make sure you are happy. I'm not going to hand over my whole bank account, but I'll make sure you and Thup are going to be fine." Gun pressed a kiss to Cher's forehead. "And if you want a formal agreement, a formal budget, whatever, we can do that. But I trust you aren't going to ask for anything ridiculous and stupid and neither will Thup."

"You make it sound like you're adopting N'Thup as our child."

"I could call a lawyer..."

Cher loudly protested and Gun could feel the weight lifting from Cher's demeanor. The loudness which prompted their own private booth becoming reality instead of mask again.

"You promised to talk to me if you had a problem and I promised to talk to you," Gun said after wine and entrees were served. "Tell me next time that someone said something and you feel insecure. It hurts you and I hurt seeing you hurt."

Cher made a face as he'd been stuffing his mouth, but the way he linked their ankles together under the table made it clear Gun was understood.

[lindszeppelin]

The age gap is definitely a problem for Austin now. They are truly are in 2 completely different points in life. Hence why he said they have nothing in common. Kaia has played her cards and shown she really isn't what he thought she was.

Austin is very much career driven. He takes his work seriously and wants to excel in everything he does. He wants to earn the respect of his peers. He busted his butt for 20 years and has worked hard for his roles. He doesn't expect handouts. As far as relationships, I don't think he necessarily is looking for marriage quite yet. But he is a relationship guy. He is looking for someone who is on his level. Someone he can have intellectual conversations with. Who has a strong work ethic, etc.

Kaia is 22 and acts like she's 22, which is fine. The problem is she tries to act older than her years. She changes herself for her boyfriend of the time. She can try to act like she's mature all she wants, but at the end of the day she's a spoiled rich kid. Nothing will change that. She relies on her parents status to get ahead in life. It's pretty obvious she has no work ethic or drive to be better. She expects to be handed roles because of her parents, their connections (laura dern), her attachment to Austin, and b/c she's pretty (which is subjective). She has the personality of a wet mop. Shows no emotion (dead eyes, monotone voice)...you get the picture.

I agree that at first Austin thought this could be a good idea. But it's been clear for a few years now, that Kaia is not at all what he thought. He wants out. He's seen they have nothing in common other than maybe a love for reading, which is not a reason to continue dating. The writing has been on the wall since 2023. Now, we wait for Austin to make his move...

It really sucks because she clearly played him into her hand when he was vulnerable. She was on a mission to get with Austin as soon as she dumped Elordi, and she had to have researched Austin's interests to hook him in. I'm sure Austin was taken aback by someone Kaia's age being into niche books or movies that he also liked, etc. Perhaps he also believed the clear lie that she likes to taut around as being older for her age. His windshield was foggy, let's just say it like that. Which is perfectly understandable for the mindset he was in. He wasn't seeing things clearly, and she was doing a great job at putting on a deceptive mask and hooking him in. Being pretty and liking books might have been interesting in the beginning as he was trying to figure out who he was and navigate his career and being in his 30s, but once the rose colored glasses come off and you're seeing things for what they are, that leaves a pit in your stomach of "oh shit what have I gotten myself into?".

I'm sure he tried to make the best of a shitty situation while he had to, and tried to get her to be serious about her career for once in her life, and implement a bit of humility in her. He wants to see the good in people I think. And he hoped she would get off his back and actually put pen to paper, so to speak, and do something meaningful with her acting career if that's what she wants. But the more it went on, clearly he saw she wasn't going to stop taking the easiest path to victory.

Also I agree that Austin is a man that likes being in relationships. He doesn't have to be ready for marriage, and even if he was it was never going to be with her anyway. He understands that it has to be the right person and the right set of circumstances. Kaia Gerber does not have the right values or morals to bring to a real marriage with a real man that comes from a family of divorced parents, and therefore thinks even more critically about what a lasting committed marriage means. He knows that when he eventually wants to settle down that it's gonna be with a woman that is on his same wavelength. He's been in this fucked up situationship for so long that he needs to have fun with the next woman he's with. Enjoy life again, be carefree and happy with someone on his level. And i'm excited for that day to come where we get to see him take a load off his shoulders and walk with pride alongside that special lady

[brothebro]

Bad to the core (part 1)

Rating M for strong language dpxdc, Dan/Jason with a sprinkle of halfa Dan and Dan redemption. here we go!!! ao3 link

________

There is a man floating parallel to the old carpet floor of Jason's apartment.

More accurately, it's his downstairs neighbour, Daniil Nightingale, in all his 6'5, Cruella de Vil-coloured hair and dalmatian print jammies glory floating—and snoring— a foot and a half above Jason's floor.

What the fuck.

Jason glances at the clock he has mounted above the 32-inch flatscreen TV - 3:40 am - and back to the sleeping mountain of a man. Partly because he's still in his Red Hood gear and because he's pretty sure he's met Daniil as Jason before he's not keen on waking him up just yet to ask why on earth he's floating in the middle of his living room.

Silently, he tip-toes to his bedroom where he changes to his Pjs- Wonder Woman, always Wonder Woman- and returns to the living room to wake the man up and demand some answers.

Daniil is still there when he returns and Jason approaches him with caution, careful not to startle him awake too violently.

Jason clears his throat. Nothing happens.

He says softly, "Time to wake up."

Nothing.

He tries louder.

The man does not move. Seems that he sleeps like the dead.

Slowly and carefully, Jason shakes Daniil's shoulders. Unsurprisingly nothing happens again. Save perhaps the fact that Jason's shaking moved the man half a foot closer to the floor.

Huh. He can work with that.

Jason continues pushing Daniil towards the floor — it'll be easier, he tells himself, to wake him up if he's not floating — and lo and behold!

 Daniil is now halfway through the carpet.

 Fucking fuck!

 Well, that answers how he got here.

 With a final big push, Daniil's form sinks downstairs and Jason hopes he didn't just kill his neighbour accidentally.

 He mentally notes to check on him in the morning to see if he's alright and then, perhaps, follow him around a bit because if he's a meta— Scratch that he's definitely a meta. Anyway, he should make sure Daniil is not in any danger because of it and that he is not a danger.  

 Yeah. That could work. No need to alert the Bat yet.

-

 Dan isn't an idiot. He's known since day one that his upstairs neighbour is the infamous crime lord Red Hood. It's why he chose this apartment to begin with. Not that he'll ever tell the squirt or Ellie that. Nah.

 He quite enjoys his 'parole' as Danny puts it. No need to get souped that soon after he finally got out. And got gifted a neat human body by the Old Time Fart.

 Sadly, he's been threatened with extended soup time if he dares joins a gang — Red Hood's included— not only by the squirt but Ellie too and — don't tell anyone — Ellie he respects and sometimes even fears. Best clone sister a man could ever dream of.

 Anyway. He can't join Red Hood in his maiming business but he can be his neighbour and friend. Plus, nobody said he couldn't date a crime lord and Lord, Red Hood is such a fine piece of ass. With mask or without.

 Which leads Dan to the current predicament. Red Hood in his civvies is following him to work for some ancient's damned reason. He thinks he's being sneaky, hiding in Gotham's long shadows, tip-toeing around like an itty-bittie mouse, or well, bat.

 Might as well play with him a little.

 The café Danny approved of as a 'normal job for a human in his early twenties' — whatever that means— doesn't open for an hour more. Dan had been meaning to walk through the park for a while and enjoy the silence before rush hour starts but he's considering taking a more… scenic route instead.

 He leads Jason around the shadiest fucking areas in the goddamn neighbourhood and makes a point to linger in alleys and actively seek out danger. It's not like anyone has the barest of chances to actually harm him but Red Hood doesn't know that; in fact, he's probably suspicious of Dan now that he thinks about it and well…

 Never it be said Dan does anything halfhearted. Playing tag with his hot crime lord slash vigilante neighbour in the worst parts of Crime Alley included.

 A couple of muggers cower the moment they lay eyes on him— good— and he continues his walk whistling a Humpty Dumpty song, hands slack in the pocket of his hoodie.

 When the time his shift begins approaches he makes his way to the little book café that decided employing a war criminal is legit for its business development. Not that they know it, but the thought makes Dan smile.

 Jason's face when he enters the Coffee Library and he sees Dan in his pink and brown apron is priceless.

 "Oh hey, Jason, was it? What can I get ya?"

-

 Jason stares at Daniil unblinkingly, eyes wandering from the little smirk on the man’s lips to the low bun he wears his dual-coloured hair in and then to — nope. Not gonna stare at his chest. Or arms. God those arms. They look so good in his uniform.  

 Nu-uh. Brain outta the gutter Jason!

 “Hi,” he manages to croak out, silently berating his mind for betraying him. He had a plan and everything damnit! A plan, you hear that brain? His possibly-definitely meta neighbour is suspish as fuck. Wandering Crime Alley like that early in the morning! Given, he didn’t actually do anything other than walk and whistle punk rock songs but still! Suspicious!

 Daniil cocks a single thick black eyebrow at him.

 Jason clears his throat.

 “Daniil, I didn’t know you worked here.” Good job Jason, way to make yourself a fool in front of the Person of Interest.

 Daniil snorts, eyes glimmering in amusement. “It’s pronounced DaniEEL not DAHnil, but you can call me Dan, pretty boy.” He winks. “So, what would you like to order?”

 Jason’s face feels uncomfortably hot all of a sudden. He swallows thickly. Stares at the blackboard catalogue on the wall behind Dan for a few seconds. “Spiced black tea… and an apricot croissant, please.”

 “I see you’re a man of culture as well,” mutters Dan under his breath, punching Jason’s order in the machine.

 “What was that?” Jason asks innocently.

 Dan shakes his head. “Nothin’. Just pleased I don’t have to prepare some sort of caffeine monstrosity so early in the morning.”

 “Not a fan of coffee?”

 “Doesn’t agree with me, though my little brother loves it. Makes me pump him a glass of 12 shots of espresso every time he passes by. Drinks it black too. The heathen.”

 Jason huffs out a low laugh. “Sounds like your brother would get along great with mine."  

 Dan lets out a world-weary sigh. “Promise me to never let them meet.”

 “I won’t say anything if you don’t say anything,” says Jason in a conspiratorial whisper.

 “Deal.”

 And that’s the moment he realises he’s grown too comfortable in the other man’s presence. He’s supposed to be investigating, goddamnit, not sharing family titbits. Though, he gotta admit Dan seems remarkably normal for a man that levitated his way into Jason’s apartment in the wee hours of the morning and led him to the world’s most dangerous stroll through Crime Alley at 6 o’ fucking clock.

-

 Fuckity fuck.

 Dan was supposed to mess with Jason. Make him think he belongs in Arkham or Blackgate or whatever other Soup equivalent they have in Gotham. Ya know, impress him, the big bad Crime Lord. He wasn’t supposed to engage in small talk with the man, and more importantly, he wasn’t supposed to like it.  

 What a mess. He even called the squirt ‘his brother’ for fuck’s sake.

 Oh well, when in Rome and all that shit.

 He’s about to go to Jason’s table to pester him some more, on account of the cafe being empty and whatnot, when the door jingle thing chimes.

 Dan curses under his breath.

 Fucking rush hour.  

-

 Jason has been meaning to stay in the cafe for the bare minimum; eat his breakfast and drink his tea and go back to sleep until sundown because —      phew — two hours is by no means enough to sustain his nightly activities, no matter what Tim ‘Never Sleep’ Drake claims. Instead, he’s been here for six hours already —has ordered lunch too— deeply engrossed in The Song of Achilles, his mission completely forgotten.

 Well sue him, he’s been meaning to read this book for ages now and it just stared at him mockingly in all its blue and white glory from the bookcase across from him. What’s a man gonna do? Ignore it?

 “Is the book any good?” Dan’s deep voice rumbles. He doesn’t wait for Jason’s answer and sits across from him, hands propped under his chin.

 “It’s great.” Jason huffs a laugh. He memorises the page number and leaves it to the side. “Don’t tell me your manager told you to scare me off already.”

 Dan hums and smiles. Jason thinks he can see too-sharp, too-long canines. “Well.. you’ve been here for six hours already. But no, Mrs G actually thinks you’re good for business. So, congrats! You can stay for as long as you like!”

 “Hurray!” Jason says in a monotone voice and claps his hands once. “No, but seriously, it’s a great place for reading.”

 “Oh gee, I wonder why that is? It’s not like it’s literally named the Coffee Library or something!”

 A peal of laughter escapes Jason’s mouth. Damn it. He likes the guy. Meta or possible goon or both.

 “Speaking of which, how come a big guy like you—”

 “Lives in Crime Alley and works a normal mundane job at a cafe?” Damn the guy is sharp. “I mean what would I do? Join a gang?” he scoffs. Perhaps Jason had misjudged him. Perhaps he really is just a normal-ish dude that happens to be built like a brick shit-house. “‘Sides Crime Alley rent is dirt cheap. And it’s not like anybody with half a brain would dare break into my place! I mean have you seen me?” He grins and yep, those are definitely fangs. “Gotta ask you back though, what are you doing in our pretty little corner in Gotham?”

 Jason blinks once. Twice. He shrugs a shoulder. Might as well go with his cover story around Crime Alley. “Work for RH. Soup kitchens,” — Jason thinks he hears Dan say ‘ew soup’ under his breath— “protection, that sort of thing.”

 Dan nods in understanding. "I see, I see."

 "You… want an in with RH?" Jason tries and fails to pass as nonchalant. It would make sense to employ him in his crime ring if only to keep tabs on him better. Not because Dan's an absolute unit, no sire.

 Dan snorts out a laugh in response. Shakes a dismissive hand. "Nah, I'll pass," he says and Jason can help but feel disappointed. "Not that life in crime doesn't sound absolutely irresistible, but I'd hate to disappoint my siblings. I promised to behave," he smirks.

 "I can't tell if you're messing with me or not."

 Dan shrugs. "The interpretation is up to you, pretty boy.”

-

 He works for Red Hood! Hah! As if. But Dan can appreciate a good cover story and despite what his siblings might think of him he’s not one to      unmask a vigilante crime lord in the middle of a busy cafe. So he plays the understanding Crime Alley resident and declines the offer for work despite knowing that it would be thrilling to do anything else than brewing tea and coffee for entitled Gothamites all day long.

 And when he calls Red Hood a pretty boy… Well, let’s just say that the man in question can blush in such a pretty shade of red that makes his signature helmet seem almost obsolete. He realises at that moment that he’d love to see Jason blushing again.

 Aw, fuck.

 He likes likes him, doesn’t he?

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

tag list! @the-legal-shipper @starscreamlover  @chrys4nthemum

[thoselethalarts]

ℙ𝕙𝕠𝕓𝕠𝕤 𝔹𝕒𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕣 - ℙ𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪

(SR) Ceremony Robes (Part 2): "Don't Get the Wrong Idea"

(NRC: Dark Mirror Chamber)

Idia (Tablet): Students of Ignihyde, please gather here…

Riddle: He didn’t even come after I gave him a good scolding… how incompetent. I worry for the students that have to deal with a dorm leader this unreliable. They have my deepest of sympathies.

Vil: Hah… I expected it would turn out this way. Almost too expected, honestly, there was hardly any glitz or fanfare to this finale at all.

(The sound of students whispering among the crowd)

Ignihyde Mob A: Hey… Do you know who’s supposed to be our new dorm leader? I don’t see him anywhere.

Ignihyde Mob B: I think it’s supposed to be that guy in the tablet. Right there, the one that called us over here.

Ignihyde Mob A: You sure though? I heard Idia Shroud was supposed to be here, and I don’t see him anywhere. That couldn’t possibly be him, right?

Phobos: …and so it begins.

Ben: Huh-hm? How what begins?

Phobos: Get your head outta your fuckin’ phone and you’d hear it for yourself.

Ben: Ow- Hey, rude! You're on your phone too! Sheesh...

Ignihyde Mob B: Look around, all the dorm heads are at the front of their group, and the tablet’s in line with everyone else. So that has to be our dorm head. Ignihyde Mob B: If that's our dorm head, then doesn't that mean that's Idia...? Why isn't he actually here, you think?

Ignihyde Mob C: Haahh… what a letdown. Of course, we have to have the one dorm head that didn’t even show up in person. That’s a bad omen for sure.

Ben: Ahhh… Yeah, you called it, alright. Ben: Doesn't sound like they're causing problems yet, but... just keep an ear on ‘em 'til we get back to home base. Ben: The crowd will be thinner back at the dorm, since it will just be all us Ignihydes. When he gives them a welcome face-to-face then, I’m sure they’ll calm down.

Phobos: You put too much faith in our “brave leader”, Ben.

Ben: I wouldn’t call it faith, SMH. At this point I’m either deluding myself for a pipe dream or praying for a miracle. Probably a mix of both.

Phobos: Hmph… Only time will tell, but I have a feeling with this mood Idia’s in, we’re in for a shitshow when we get back, too.

(Time passes as the ceremony concludes…)

(Ignihyde Dorm: Lounge)

Idia (Tablet): Here we are, at the “ever illustrious” Ignihyde dorm, based on the diligent nature of the King of the Underworld.

Ben: He's still not showing up in person...? He's not planning on giving the whole opening welcome like that... right?

Idia: Welcome to your school life for the rest of your stay here. Dark, gloom, and doom, and that's about it. You're all pretty unfortunate to be sorted here out of all the dorms, but it's whatever. You'll get used to it. Idia: If you have any questions about the dorm, look it up yourselves on the school website. It's kept pretty up to date and should have all the information you need. Idia: Unlike you newbies, I have a pretty right ship I have to run. Unless it's an emergency, try not to go out of your way to bother me. I have my vice dorm heads here for a reason. Idia: Anyway, to further welcome you to the dorm and get you all situated with your new living situations, I have my second in command here on standby to assist. Idia: Take it awaaaaayyy, Ben.

Ben: Wh- are you serious, he’s gonna make me…?! Ben: (sigh) This isn’t gonna end well… Ben: Alright... deep breath, mask on.

(Ben departs from the crowd and steps up beside Idia)

Ben: Ahem… Hey, what’s up gamers! I’m Benjamin Walker, second in command for Ignihyde. You all can just call me “Ben” though. Ben: Anyway, don't listen to what our gloomy dorm head says, Ignihyde isn't actually all that bad! In fact, I'd say we're one of the coziest dorms on campus! Atmosphere aside~ Ben: We've got the best Ethernet and WIFI on campus down here! And we'll be hosting LAN parties for special occasions too! Everyone's welcome to join in, so if you make friends in other dorms, feel free to bring them over too! Ben: If you're more interested on the mechanical side of things, we've also got a whole room on the first floor that's just for metalwork. Ben: There's blacksmithing supplies, welding and soldering tools, tons of scrap metal that's free for public use, and we even have a hydraulic press! Ben: The hydraulic press needs a key to work though, so you'll have to ask me or Idia for access. It's to prevent incidents from happening... again. Ben: Oh! And if you ever wanna get food delivered, we've got a great set of drones we just got set up that will take your order right to your dorm room door-

Ignihyde Mob A: Ugghh, how long are we gonna have to sit through this spiel?! Give it a rest already, your hypebeasting needs serious work!

Ben: Uh- heh... come again?

Ignihyde Mob A: Come on, dude, quit wasting our time with this bullshit. It's so obvious how fake this all is. Ignihyde Mob A: The first thing we got to hear when we got here is how shitty our school life is going to be from our dorm head himself, and now you're standin' here trying to buy us back with WIFI and a rec room?!

Ben: Uh... Yeah, kind of, I guess. Is it working~?

Ignihyde Mob B: Lil' bit, not gonna lie...

Ignihyde Mob A: Man, you can't even pretend?! Ignihyde Mob A: This is a joke, just a giant ass joke! Our dorm head can't be bothered to even show up on day one, and now we have some jackass influencer trying to buy us over so we don't get dorm reassignments!

Ben: Hey, I'm not some influencer! I'd be getting paid at least for doing this, if I was.

Ignihyde Mob A: He's not even getting paid?!

Idia: Why the hell would he? I'm not getting paid for having to deal with all of you low-level crybabies in chat.

Ignihyde Mob B: Oi! I'm not some crybaby!

Ignihyde Mob C: Yeah, what the hell?! What kind of dorm head talks to their first years like that?!

(Murmurs start to stir in the crowd of new students)

Ignihyde Mob A: I can't believe all this. I can't believe that I actually was excited to be coming here to NRC when people like you two are the ones in charge of the dorms. Ignihyde Mob A: How's the dorm head even decided here, anyway? Is it really all just who your family is? Ignihyde Mob A: I bet that's it, isn't it? However much money your family makes, that gets your the seat at the head! Ignihyde Mob A: Well, I might not be rich, but I bet I could take the position of dorm head by force if I wanted! I'm already a hell of a mage as is!

Ignihyde Mob C: Hey, you're gonna need a vice dorm head too, aren't ya? Ignihyde Mob C: I bet being in charge would be a lotta fun, actually~ I'll be your backup if you're serious about this. If it's two to two, your odds are evened~

Ignihyde Mob B: I'm not all that interested in the power or anythin', but I guess I can throw my name into the ring too. Could be fun to go a few rounds with a real challenger for once.

Ignihyde Mob A: Haha, yeah! That's what I'm talkin' about~! Who else is with me?!

Phobos: That's enough.

(Phobos emerges from the crowd and stands before the crowd of Ignimobs)

Phobos: I'm done with listening to all this pointless barking. I think it's about time someone reminded you lot of who's really in charge here and why.

Ignihyde Mob A: Yeah? And who the hell are you supposed to be?

Phobos: Phobos Banner. Third in command for Ignihyde Dorm.

Ignihyde Mob A: Hah! So our dorm head’s so incompetent that he needs not only a second but a third vice dorm head in charge? That’s rich!

Ignihyde Mob C: Heh, we've only been here all of three seconds and I bet we could easily take him and claim the role of Dorm Head as our own.

Ignihyde Mob B: You idiots are just askin' for a manhandling. One of them, maybe we could take, but not all three of them.

Ignihyde Mob A: C'mon, puff out your chest! You're not really gonna let some half-competent seniors be the ones bossing us around for the next three years, are ya?!

Ignihyde Mob B: I mean I wouldn't mind having a bigger dorm to myself, that's for sure, but still-

Phobos: Haahh... If you all think you're such hot shit, then fine. Lets test your strength. I don't need backup to keep you all in line. Phobos: Now... Have your knees give out on the cold, bitter ground. Kneel, like dogs, before the one who bears the crown.

Ignihyde Mob C: Hah! What's this about? Some kind of poetry reading... ugh!

(The mobs suddenly start collapsing to the floor)

Ignihyde Mob A: W-What's...?! Ow- I can't move my legs...?!

Ignihyde Mob B: H-Hey, why me too...!? What the bloody hell are you doing to us..!?

Phobos: Weakness courses through quivering veins, body and mind submit. Your face hits steel, your mind assent. Phobos: Your heart beats weaker, lungs tighten. Blood flow hindered binds your thoughts. Amidst the fog, your life stays taut.

Ignihyde Mob C: N-Nghh... I can't... my arms are shaking... I c-can't keep my body up.

Ignihyde Mob B: Everything's... getting all hazy.

Phobos: Recognize your master. Know your place. Phobos: The voice that calls you, a light in the darkness. Your hand of salvation, from a life condemned. Phobos: Follow the flame, I'll show the way. Surrender your soul. Submit. Obey.

Ignihyde Mob A: S-Submit... obey...

Ignihyde Mob B: Submit... obey...

Ignihyde Mob C: Submit... obey...

Phobos: The voice that calls you demands your submission. Accept the call. Surrender yourself. Know your place.

Ignihyde Mobs: I surrender myself. I know my place.

Phobos: Good. Looks like you're starting to understand now who's in charge and why. Phobos: As the calm before the storm, so too does it follow. The weakness dissipates, blood flow circulates as it once was, air rushes back to weakened lungs. Phobos: Minds of clarity once restored, and bodies rushed anew with life light.

Ignihyde Mob A: (gasp!) W-What the hell just... Ugh, my head is spinning...

Ignihyde Mob B: I-I should've bloody known better than to get roped in with you two idiots...

Ignihyde Mob C: I feel like I just signed a contract written in blood... I'm just gonna live here on the floor forever now.

Phobos: Hmph... listen up, new blood. You think it’s all fun and games today because your dorm head disappeared when you expected him to be there. Phobos: He may not have made a public appearance today, but don’t for a second think that speaks to his abilities. He’s the dorm head for a reason. Phobos: Let this be a warning to all of you. Don’t fuck with us. Ignihyde dorm is in just as capable hands as any other dorm on campus. Phobos: And if you think I’m powerful, then you have no fucking clue what Ben is capable of, let alone Idia. Am I making myself clear?

Ignimobs: …...

Phobos: I said, am I making myself clear?

Ignimobs: Y-Yes sir!

Phobos: Good. Now shut up and pay attention to your dorm head. This is your only warning from me.

(Phobos departs from the crowd and leans against one of the nearby walls behind Ben and Idia)

Idia: Well… that was a little more intense than I thought day one would go. Looks like they finally quieted down for a change though. GG, Phobos.

Ben: Heheheh... I don't usually get to see him whip out his U.M. on somebody so publicly like this~ Ben: That coulda been a lot more fatal if he wanted it to be. You lot should be grateful you're first years. Next time, he might not be so forgiving~

Idia: I hate how much you enjoy watching him do that... if one of them actually dies because of him, I'm the one that has to clean up the mess... Idia: A-Anyway... it’s customary for each dorm to host a “welcoming feast” on night one, so that’s what we’re doing after the room assignment event's done. Idia: Catering should be here soon enough, so lets get this done and over with. Ben, you have the card keys, right?

Ben: Yeah, I got 'em right here. Ben: Alright, lets get this started! Whenever either me or Idia call your name from our list, come up and we’ll give you a map of the dorm layout and the card key for your dorm room. Ben: First on the list, we have…

(Time passes as the room quiets down, and the crowd begins to dissipate)

Phobos: Haah... Finally, some peace and quiet.

Ortho: Phobos Banner, may I have a word with you?

Phobos: ...What do you need?

Ortho: I just wanted to say thank you!

Phobos: Huh?

Ortho: Before, when you lectured my brother about his appearance to the ceremony… your words were harsh, but you spoke from a place of caring.

Phobos: The hell gave you that idea?

Ortho: You put a lot of importance onto the first impression of the newest members of our dorm, and on the memories they’ll be making when they arrive here. Ortho: You didn’t want them to have a bad first day; you wanted them to feel welcomed and optimistic when they came here. That shows you really do care about our dorm members and their time here at Night Raven College. Ortho: Though you were a bit rough with the first years when they began to revolt, you still acted only to incapacitate them temporarily, not to permanently injure them. Ortho: That resistance shows that you still care for them, and my brother's reputation, too.

Phobos: Tch… don’t get the wrong idea. Phobos: I don’t care about their time here… how they spend their life is none of my business. Phobos: I’m just not interested in some new blood getting cocky, causing problems, and trying to walk all over us upperclassmen. That’s all it is.

Ortho: Increased heart rate and sudden flushing of facial features. Abnormality in vital signs detected.

Phobos: S-Stop scanning my bio-readings! Ugh… Phobos: Just… tell Idia I’ll be waiting for my “payment” for taking care of things tonight. I’m going back to my room.

Ortho: Hehehe~ I’ll make sure to have him treat you well for all your hard work.

/ End