#anyways hopefully my fic didn't suffer too much

[zanarkandfayth]

at laaaast. finished my fic 😭 it's 304K lmao. cannot believe I wrote that in roughly a year gjkdslgjklsg

[goddessofmischief]

      RUNNING SCARED, I WAS THERE (YOUNG SHANKS X MIHAWK X READER)

A/N: This is part of this series, which requests are open for! These fics are all one-shots, so they can be read separately. Also, I highly recommend listening to the song linked in the title while you read.

It was the twilight eve of the execution of Gol D. Roger, and sadness ruled your heart, body and soul.

The crew had disbanded, scattering themselves to the seas with little more than fond good-byes. Roger had turned himself in three days earlier. There had been a trial - a rushed, convoluted sham of a trial that you hated every second of, but it didn't matter anymore. At least there would be an end to his suffering.

And at least Buggy and Shanks were with you. Small blessings. You knew that Garp had no real interest in persecuting a bunch of kids like yourselves, but hanging out on a pirate ship in the harbor seemed to be an unwise action all the same. So you'd booked three rooms at a nearby inn, close to the town square, and been disheartened to see that the inn was almost filled with out-of-towners thrilled to witness such a historical event.

Buggy got settled in his room, while Shanks sat down on the bed in yours.

"It's strange," he said. "All of this."

You nodded, unable to look at him.

"Hey, we're going to be fine. You know that, right?"

"I know," you said, and then there was a sudden banging at the door.

You and Shanks exchanged glances, and his hand rested on the sword at his side. The door thundered again.

Gripping your pistol, you approached the door, opening it the smallest crack, and trying not to show surprise at the face that greeted you.

"...Mihawk?"

"I heard that Roger would be executed," said Mihawk, out of breath. "I returned to witness. I had to see you."

"I don't care."

"Please let me come in. I know what I did was terrible. It was terrible. But you have to know that it's not because of lack of love for you, I do love-"

You swung the door all the way open, letting Mihawk in. As you did, you pressed your finger to his lips.

"I don't want to hear it," you said, shaking your head. "Roger dies tomorrow. I'm not interested in exploring what happened between us. It doesn't matter anymore."

"Please-"

Shanks appeared behind you, arm looped around your waist.

"Out, Hawk-Eye," Shanks cautioned, "Or I'll duel you for real this time."

Mihawk stared at you, lip trembling a bit. You had never seen him show so much emotion before.

"Please," he stated again. You were silent. Shanks stared him down.

After a moment, he nodded, did a small bow in your direction, and walked out.

Shanks groaned, turning back to his room.

After a moment of consideration, you stared at the hallway where Mihawk had left, and ran after him.

"Mihawk, wait," you called out, and he turned around immediately, a smile ghosting over his face. "Look, I... what you did hurt me. It did hurt me. But it doesn't matter now. All of this... has made me realize what's important."

"...I'm so glad," he said, trying to speak around the lump in his throat. "Truly."

You smiled, pulling something out of your pocket. He realized with a pang that it was your wedding ring, the one he'd designed for you. You handed it back to him, leaving it in the palm of his hand.

"We were much too young to be married anyway. You were right."

Mihawk nodded, closing his fingers around the ring.

"Would you accept my proposal, again, if we were older?"

"If you asked again... when we are older... I may consider it."

He nearly blushed.

"May we part as friends?" Mihawk offered, hopefully. "I know I do not deserve that much, but-"

"Yes," you agreed softly, reaching your hand out to him. "Friends."

Friends.

You made your way back down the hallway, hesitating in front of two doors: yours, or Shanks. You twisted the doorknob on his, wondering if he had left it unlocked for you.

He had.

"Hey," he called out sleepily, sounding completely unsurprised. "You alright?"

You nodded, twisting your hands.

"I don't want to be alone. Do you?"

"No," he said, and the night faded to black.

...

When Shanks got up that morning, he thought of the last time he'd spoken to Roger. Just the two of them.

"It's yours," Roger said. "Our ship. You're the oldest. You're the one who has to look after them. Keep them from killing each other. Keep Buggy from killing you."

Shanks was at a loss for words, and could only bow his head in gratitude.

"One more thing," said Roger. "Another gift and a confession. I never married the woman I loved. I never will."

Shanks could see the toll this was taking on the older man, could see the grief drawn across his face. Roger took something out of a drawer and held it out to Shanks.

"This is Rouge's ring. Now it's yours."

"I don't understand."

"You don't have to, Shanks. All I'm saying is that if there is a girl, one day... and you don't want to let her slip through your fingers... you have this."

Roger held the ring out again, which was strung from a loose chain. Shanks bent his head, and Roger draped the ring over his shoulders. Shanks tucked it under his clothes, where it could lie unseen, and wait.

Shanks knew then that he had so much to say to Roger, too much, and there would not be enough time, not even if he had a thousand years. He wanted to tell him everything, and have Roger tell him what to do in return. But he couldn't.

"Thank you," Shanks managed, and then he felt he had said enough.

...

It was a warm day with clouds when the crowd huddled in to view the execution.

You clung to Shanks' arm, your hand shielding your eyes, while Buggy stood several paces behind you. Mihawk was somewhere in the crowd, too, watching, wearing a new coat - new, at least, to you - embroidered with amaryllis flowers. You had thought to go and stand beside him, but you realized this felt much more right. Shanks had never abandoned you. You were sure, in that moment, he never would.

"It's about to happen," Shanks murmured.

"Oh," you whispered, just 'oh.' You had seen people die, but never someone you loved.

You buried your face in Shanks' shoulder, unable to face these jeering, spectating people around you, gleefully witnessing the pain and destruction and ruination of your lives.

But wait, a pause. And it was then that Roger uttered those words, that speech, the thing that incited the Great Pirate Era. The thing that broke the world, and made you proud.

And then, as the previously laughing crowd stampeded away around you, desperately taking to the water like fish, the act was done.

Roger was gone. A sin had been committed by the world today that could not be forgiven. The sky had, fittingly, turned dark and rainy.

"Let's go home," Shanks said, quietly, and it was then you realized that your face was still buried in his shoulder. He didn't attempt to dislodge you.

"I don't know where home is."

"Course you do. It's in the harbor now."

The Oro Jackson, Roger's ship, the ship you had lived on for the past decade. Why didn't it feel like home, like it had before? Because everyone was gone?

Not everyone. Not Shanks, and not Buggy.

Mihawk, you realized, was still planted where he had stood before, unable to dislodge his gaze from you.

"Hey, Hawk-Eyes," Shanks called out, beginning to steer you towards the ship. "You heading out?"

"Yes," he said, clearing his throat. "Yes, I should be going."

Mihawk nodded to you as Shanks wrapped his coat around your shoulders.

"We'll see each other again," you whispered, tears pricking your eyes. "I believe that."

He gave you a rare smile, and then he was gone.

taglist:

@sawendel @twinklesnake @literaturewithliz @sordidmusings @foggyturtleknightangel @toertchen @96jnie @lunanight1021

[astro-eats]

ABSTRAGEDY FIC

THIS TAKES PLACE BEFORE MY OTHER FICS

It was theme song time, and no one could find Gangle. She wasn't anywhere. Ragatha has already looked in her room. Zooble hadn't really looked for her yet because they know she's gonna be ok. But they were starting to doubt themselves.

Ragatha put her hand on zoobles shoulder, causing them to step away. Ragatha realized what she did and quickly apologized.

"Oh I'm sorry..!"

"its fine."

"We can't find Gangle anywhere..! I'm starting to get worried! She's not in her room, she's not in YOUR room-"

Ragatha continued talking, but zooble didn't pick any of it up. They were too focused on the fact that she went into their room. And also that Gangle was missing. She couldn't have been far. Worst case scenario, she was abstracted in the void and they were never gonna see her again which would cause them to mentally deteriorate until they also abstract and they would suffer forever and-

"Ragatha! Stop talking and go F(bleep)ING look for her!"

"O- oh! Uhm.. I- okay!"

Ragatha ran off to look for her. Zooble started to go outside of the tent. She was probably there and not dead! Hopefully.

They walk faster until they find themselves sprinting towards the carnival. They shout her name, but it wasnt responded to. They look up at the ferris wheel. She was sitting at the top. It was turned off, so she must've been up for a long time. She looked asleep, but it waa hard to tell because she was so high up.

They sigh in relief. She's alive. They didn't stop to wonder why she was up there. They go closer to the ferris wheel and push a lever, causing the wheel to spin. Gangle jerked awake at the feeling of going down. She looked around and saw zooble at the bottom. She loved the ferris wheel. She would often go.up at night and look at the digital lake. She watched zooble up until she got to the ground. She hopped off, holding her sketchbook in one arm.

"Gangle. You scared me so f(uh oh cuss word >:()ing bad."

"I'm sorry..! I fell asleep and forgot to go back into my room and-"

"Gangle its fine. I was worried you abstracted. Please just remember to go somewhere we can find you next time.."

"I- yeah of course..!"

"I have a question."

"Yeah..?"

"Why were you there? I mean, the only reason I looked here is because no one could find you anywhere in the circus."

"Exactly."

"... What?"

"I go here because no one else does.. It isn't anyones first thought when they think of places I might be.."

"My room is one of them. When ragatha told me you were lost, she said she looked in my room for you"

Gangle giggled. Her affection and attachment for zooble wasn't a secret. Whenever she was scared, so was basically wrapped around zooble. When she was upset, wrapped around zooble. When she was excited, she was wrapped around zooble. They were her 'best friend'. Really close friends. Yeah. Zooble spoke up.

"I'll try not to bother you again when you're here."

"Wait no- Please bother me..! Wait- uh- I mean I just do don't mind when you're here.. Heh..-"

"Heh. I'll keep that in mind~"

Gangle giggled like a middle school girl talking to her crush. Except she doesn't have hair to twirl around her fingers like an idiot.

Gangle found it hard to deny or convince herself she doesn't have a crush on them. They're really cool. Zooble couldn't deny their crush on her either. Zooble loved seeing her get flustered. They knew she liked them, it was obvious. But they were still too nervous to actually have the conversation with her. They were extremely good st hiding their nervousness around her though. She wasn't.

Gangle and zooble suddenly got teleported in front of caine. Ragatha had gotten caine because she was worried. Little did she know she saved Gangle from embarrassing herself from how much she was blushing. Caine spoke in his overly energetic annoying voice.

"WHERE WERE YOU TWO! I WAS WORRIED SICK! ANYWAYS WE HAVE TO DO THE THEME SONG!"

Gangle and zooble looked at each other. They both had a look on their face. They didn't want to do any of caines things today. They wanted to hang out with each other.

After practicing the theme song again, caine started explaining the adventure. Zooble interrupted him.

"Yeah I'm not doing this. Come on Gangle."

They gently grabbed gangles ribbon arm and pulled her along with them as they walk off to their room. Caine spoke up about it, a desperate tone.

"WAIT! Zooble please! Just try it!"

"... No."

Caine looked defeated and watched as Zooble left, taking Gangle with them.

Zooble opened their door and walked in, Gangle following behind them. Once the two were in, zooble closed the door. Gangle had a feeling this was going to be the moment the two have a talk about their relationship, which is why she didn't resist being pulled with them.

Zooble sat on their bed, patting the spot next to them, silently telling her to sit next to them. She listened. She did that a lot, listen to anything they said. There was no specific reason she did. It might me a result of her trust for them. Or a result of her trauma, making her fear the consequences of being disobedient. She knew not to fear them. They are her safe person. Which is why she loves them so much.

"Gangle?"

"Yeah..?"

"I need to tell you something."

Gangles face was hot and red as she nervously nodded. It could be the best news in her entire life. Zooble spoke again.

"I like you. A lot."

Gangles eyes lit up. She kind of knew what they were gonna say, but it felt so good hearing it. She smiled/

"I like you too..!"

Zooble looked at her. Despite their emotionless (except annoyed and angry) nature, they were happy. They spoke, their voice slightly changed from their usual. They were happy.

"So are we a thing?"

"I would love to be.."

Gangle smiled as she laid her head on their arm, blushing. Zooble, despite not liking physical touch, liked HER physical touch. Only hers. So they wrapped an arm around her.

Gangle looked at them with big, happy, sweet eyes. She did that often. Zooble noticed her big eyes, chuckling quietly. She looked cute.

Gangle felt actually happy. She never really feels happy. She just doesn't feel as empty. There wasn't much things here that made her happy. Especially when Jax is alive. But zooble made her happy.

Zooble was happy too. They were never happy. Ever. But it was like there were ribbons wrapped around their heart.

The two fit perfectly together. Plastic and porcelain. Two very physically (and mentally) unstable people. Zooble was strong at what Gangle was weak at, in vice versa. But the two still had things in common.

They find themselves laying comfortably together. Gangle was better at showing affection through touch, she she was hugging all over them. Zooble wasn't good at it, but they're good at laying down and letting Gangle cuddle them.

(WHY DOES EVERYTHING END EITH CUDDLIMG OMGGG)

(ILLL TRY TO WRITE MORE TOMORROW)

[dontcallpanic]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers! Spread the self-love 💞

Ah, thanks so much for this ask @writerhellenemeyers! @gege-wondering-around asked as well and I've been putting it off because I didn't know how to answer!

Everything I have is in a WIP status and I am an extremely slow writer. I get no time (despite what my chronically online presence here might suggest!)

Anyway I now have two wips so I thought it was time to answer!

No Title As Yet -

The first one is a strange mix of ingredients and is essentially about Stiles taking a roadtrip for complicated personal reasons and running full tilt into Beacon Hills which is one of those small towns where everyone is acting really weird and there's a strange red eyed monster following him around (nudge wink) - and he basically wants to solve All the mysteries. It's inspired by all those strange small town stories (twilight, Stephen king, gravity falls etc) the songs 'My Silver Lining' by first aid kit and 'Indigo' by Katherine Priddy and this strange Welsh myth about a woman who vanishes on her wedding day only for her bones to be found ten years later, still clothed in the wedding dress, inside a tree that has been struck by lightning/come down in a storm. I'm aiming for it to be funny, creepy, wild and full of strange magic.

I'm manifesting... murder?

Okay the next one was just a funny thing to cheer up my friend who'd had an insanely bad day/week at work but it sort of spiraled.

It was this idea that Stiles is having trouble with the authorities trying to close down his museum. And because he's a spark and does a bit of a to b thinking he sort of... Accidentally manifests/wills their murders. At least, it's starts off accidentally... A kind of "I didn't mean for this to happen but it's made everything better??? Is murder the solution to all my problems?" With Derek being dragged along for the ride and becoming his long-suffering accomplice.

My friends brief was 'murder husbands but make it hot fuzz." Still not sure where it's going! It might end up being a 5 times Stiles accidentally kills people and one time it was on purpose - who knows!

Anyway... thanks so much for the ask! I like to write purely for fun so I don't know if this will tick anyone's boxes but that's my stuff!

Thank you both for being absolutely wonderful people! I really admire you both so much so I appreciate the interest!

Oh and tagging @oldefashioned incase You're interested!

And @patolemus - thanks SO much for the ask too, hopefully this tag works! 🩵

[muraar]

Ｆｌｅｅｔｉｎｇ Ｒｕｍｏｒｓ

hello genshin Tumblr, tis me, yet another misguided writer. posting on here once again after my initial pit of depression.

me trying to act like everybody missed me (no one knows who I am)

synopsis: rumor has it that lifting the artificer is a favorable test of strength 🤯🤭 wc: 4027, gn!reader, isekai fic if yk then yk THERE SHALL BE NO CONTEXT PROVIDED, but dw its digestible even without context (hopefully)

The world of teyvat was as fantastical as it could get, an abundance of mysteries that ran from fallen civilizations to cute cabbage-like creatures. 

And dragons… because no fantasy was complete without them. 

You, coming from a relatively tame world like the one back home, had grown accustomed to all this. 

Well for the most part at least, you already knew the world of teyvat being the avid player of genshin impact that you were, so that certainty was a major factor in your nonchalance.

Barring the fact that you were in the new world entirely, at the very least your conscience didn't have to suffer through the crisis of being thrown in a world completely unknown to you. 

Genshin was fine, at least you were familiar with this world. Imagine being dropped into a world that you had no clue about, cursed with no foresight, leaving yourself open to all sorts of nefarious entities. 

You were at the very least somewhat thankful to the isekai deity that dropped you here, ignoring the fact that you wanted to sucker punch them in the face for making you lose all your relevant game progress. But that was a whole another can of worms. 

At the very least your assimilation here was rather smooth, everyone mostly liked you or was neutral towards you. Now that just might be because of your abilities but you liked to think your personality was the main selling point here. 

And perhaps that is why you are able to ask for your somewhat arbitrary whims. 

"hey diluc" you spoke out, catching the attention of the said red-headed man, who then proceeds to respond to your call. Turning to look at his side -at you- with an attentive look on his face. 

"You use a claymore, right? And primarily they are huge and bulky weapons." 

"yes… claymores tend to be big and hefty but they are powerful in their own right. Regardless, it's the weapon of my choice. " 

And he answers almost automatically, not having to think too much about your observation because you were just stating facts, which he feels like are a build-up to something. 

Although he could never be sure with you.

"strong indeed, but they've got to be heavy right?" 

There you were again stating the obvious and all known. 

"They do have some weight to them but I'm used to it. Why is this a concern?" 

He asks quizzically and you straighten up at his remark, as if your next words require you to be upright. 

And they do. 

So you position yourself right in front of Diluc Ragnvindr before claiming. 

"then… You should be able to lift me right?" 

And Diluc just looks confused for a moment before realizing what you're getting at and you see his eyes widen a tad bit. 

"... you want me to lift you?"

He asks just to be sure that you aren't joking around and that there is actually an underlying meaning to this request. Although his cheeks already seem to be flaring up at the mere ideation of the action. 

"Well, you swing around a claymore with such ease... I think it should be possible for you" 

you say most casually. Not like you have any doubts in his strength, humans in this world were something else entirely. 

"I suppose. I should be able to," he says almost to himself, blushing and queasy still. But you catch those words anyway and show no mercy. Grinning and practically beaming up at him. 

"excellent " comes your rather enthusiastic response, as you step further and closer to him. Making your suggested whim all the more obvious and irrefutable. 

The action only ends up making diluc sigh, averting his eyes with the wishful thinking that it might calm the feeling in his chest. It was ridiculous how easily you could stir him up like that. Embarrassing… And exhilarating at the same time. Though he would never admit that out loud. 

And yet… 

He finds himself relenting against you once again, lowering himself to wrap one of his arms behind your knees and the other that goes around your back. A millisecond of a wait before he quite literally sweeps you off your feet, making the action seem all the more effortless than you ever expected it to be. 

"Woah woah woah" 

You gape and reach out your arm towards him and rest it across his shoulders, more so to stabilize yourself than anything - Even though it was highly unlikely that the man would lose balance of you- but for your sake you keep your arm hooked across his rather broad shoulders now that you take notice of them. Not just that, it's all of him really, Diluc Ragnvindr feels solid and strong underneath you. And despite all that his hold on you is as gentle as it could be, like an actual gentleman. 

“Is this alright?” he asks softly, his voice sounding calm and controlled although his tone was one of uncertainty and you can tell he wants to know if this is okay - Which is understandable as he didn’t anticipate this request of yours at all. And you are quick to reply nodding up at him in affirmation, not even trying to hide the fact that you were highly impressed. 

“okey wow,” you start lightly with an amazed smile. 

“you made it look so easy. I mean I'm almost as tall as you are and defiantly on the heavier side” The admission comes in honestly, and you find yourself reminiscing about your own gym days. 

“I mean even I used to lift a little but id probably break my back if I tried picking you up.” comes your remark that ends up with you chuckling lightly as you imagine yourself trying to pick him up. All be it with a smile you shake away that thought and instead focus back on Diluc, the mirth and amusement astute on your face as you say.

“I think humans of teyvat are just built different, do I even weigh anything to you?” 

The tease in your words is evident and Diluc can sense your enjoyment from your tone itself. He tries very hard to ignore the heat in his cheeks that he can feel spreading throughout his body, and tries to focus on your question and answer it. And perhaps humor you with a proper reply of his own.  

“Of course you do. But it's a weight I’m more than capable of handling.”

Diluc's words sound firm and direct almost as if he's making a statement, and he is. His face is a lot calmer, though he's still blushing softly, he's not as embarrassed as before. Instead, his gaze locks onto yours and he seems determined enough to get his point across. Your heart skips a beat at his words but you are quick to respond by raising your eyebrows and grinning mischievously. 

He certainly has a way of putting everything into perspective with just a few simple words.

You hummed, giving him a knowing glance and a smirk before answering him.

“And I dont doubt you in the slightest.”

But the redheaded man gets no chance to reply or respond as a third voice chimes in.

“[Name]- oh… am i interrupting something?”

making both you and diluc turn your heads toward the source of it all. 

And just a few feet away right at the entrance to your recently build garden stands the Sumeru Akademiya scribe, looking impassive as ever. Although there is a clearly interested look on his face as the eyes the two of you, well more like you in the arms of Diluc Ragnvindr. And you dont even get the time to reply before another figure trods in. This one looking clearly agitated, almost as if he’d had to run and catch up with Al Haitham to reach here.

And given that it's Kaveh, it's all the more likely that Scribe just didn't bother waiting around for him.

And Kaveh is about to give Al Haitham an earful but he stops midway as he too spots the pair of diluc and you. And given then he is much more well-versed in reading social situations it takes him mere minutes to point it out to his supposed companion. 

 “Of course, you are interrupting something!” he quickly chides the scribe almost ready to drag him away before shooting towards you, the both of you as his gaze swaps between you and diluc, an embarrassed and apologetic look. 

“Sorry [name] we’ll be out of your hair in just one second-”

Kaveh’s voice is rushed and quick, he's midway in his actions to drag Al Haitham away too, but it's your apparent and loud voice that stops him in his steps.

“It's alright you aren't interrupting anything, I was simply testing out my curiosities and diluc here.” you pat his shoulder lightly, “well let's just say I managed to rope him into indulging me.” 

The light touch on his shoulder is effective in bringing Diluc out of whatever trance he was struck in. And on hearing and processing your reply the only response he can manage is a sign. Before proceeding to lower you, placing you on the ground. He watches you step down, his eyes looking at you intently, hands lingering for a few seconds longer than necessary and then withdrawing completely. 

“You certainly did” he voices out and you can practically feel him going back to his usual stoic self. 

You eye the red-headed man briefly not at all surprised at the sudden change of tone, but rather smirking at him smugly. 

“Well I had a thought and I had to test it out,” you answer while crossing your arms, very much feeling like a child coming clean to their parents. 

“Understandable but still I would like to apologize on behalf of Kaveh, because as you just witnessed. He’s quick to jump onto conclusions.”

The Scribe speaks out, seemingly content with your explanations but ending the statement with a nonplussed look towards the resident architect. 

“Why? You little- I do not jump onto conclusions, I only reasonably responded as every sensible individual would have, not like you would have any understanding of that.” Kaveh fires back, half irritated and half abashed because he did very well assume that you were-

“You mean on impulse and without any critical thinking and questioning?” Al Haitham is still less than impressed as he replies to his roommate, the feeling evident in his face and actions as he too crosses his arms in front of his chest. 

And while the two go on at it again, Diluc on witnessing this whole ordeal only slides you a questioning and worried look. One that you reply with a shrug and a sideways nod of your own. Before lightly uttering the following words.

“It's just like you and Kaeya.”

The winery tycoon all but sours at the mention of his brother’s name. But part of him does start to wonder if this is truly what his and Kaeya’s conversations sound like to you.

“Just shut up alright? Arguing is not what we came here for.”

Kaveh says loud enough and exasperated enough that even Al Haitham stops with the curt replies of his own. This finally leads you to wonder why were they here in the first place. Not how because pretty much all the people you knew had a realm dispatch for this serenitea pot of yours, and that list obviously included these two Sumerian gentlemen.

“Yeah I mean any particular reason that you're here?” you think your thoughts out loud anyway it's when they both turn to look at you that you realize that you've said them out loud too.

“Not that I mind of course,” you add on quickly, not wanting to make it seem like the opposite. 

“Well, Kaveh insisted on me seeing this Archaic Pallvillion that he claims to have constructed in this realm.” Al Haitham answers cooly as he steps further in to explore the said garden. With Kaveh following close behind, all the previous embarrassment forgotten as he walks forth with his chest puffed up, and pride literally oozing out of his person. 

Because of course, he was proud. Getting to work in this magical adeptal realm that could handle all of his wildest designs? Having all the materials required available on a whim? And getting paid for it? It was too good to be true but that's the deal that you struck with him when you proposed the idea of him taking over the creative reins of your realm. He had half considered that this was just another dream of his but when he pinched himself and nothing seemed to change, that's when he remembers standing starstruck. 

Your concerned face at his silence and the fact that you insisted that he could refuse if he so wished, ah well that expression still brings a smile to his face. It would be a foolish decision to refuse an offer as gracious as this… and you too now that he thinks of it. 

Which leads us back to the place at hand, Archaic Pavillion, the said garden he had designed and materialized in this adeptal abode. Kaveh’s latest creative endeavor and the reason for his and Al haitham’s presence here. He wanted, to put it into simpler terms show off, and have a chance to meet with you too given that this provided for an opportunity for it. Convincing the scribe to come along was a task of his own but even he relented quickly enough when Kaveh mentioned you being there. 

“Archaic Pavillion huh? nice choice of name.” you point out, having connected the dots together and doing a brief look around the entire place, very much satisfied with the aesthetics, not like anything less could be expected from the light of Ksharwar. 

 “Fits the place perfectly.” you smile up at the architect, very much appreciative of his ingenuity. And he puffs up even more, much like a peacock. 

“It doubtlessly is exquisite.” surprisingly enough it is Diluc that voices his thoughts, seemingly appreciative of all that stood constructed. He might not be the most into design and aesthetics but he knows excellence in works when he sees one. It was all very much different from the buildings back in Mondstadt but this was not all Sumeru style either. Sure there were similar elements here and there but everything had a distinct feeling of you, The batch of small lamp grass that blossomed carefully cultivated in the vicinity was evident enough. A keepsake or rather a reminder of your first day in this world, however bizarre that was for you and him. 

This was your place and the architect seems to have kept that in mind when he went about designing all that would subtly hint at your likeliness. A statement that Diluc himself would attest to, the blond man had certainly gone out of his way to capture your essence with the place. 

Kaveh was on cloud nine soaking in the praise of both you and Diluc but his merry time is all but interrupted when the resident scribe opens his mouth. 

“I agree, this is quite remarkable. And quite literally by your standards.”

Comes the abrupt awakening by Al Haitham’s hands as it doesn't take long for Kaveh to catch up with his offhanded compliment.

“What's that supposed to mean huh?” Kaveh shoots back, all ready to defend his latest creation

“It means you've done a good job for once.” The grey-haired man’s reply does nothing to quell Kaveh’s growing offense though and he is already to bite back but Al Haitham acts faster in getting his inquiry for you out.

“Anyway, [Name] what were you testing? If you dont mind me asking.” Al Haitham leaves for you a choice to not answer, but one look at him it's obvious that he wishes to know. Even Kaveh abandons his previous offensive in favor of listening to your answer.

Well, it's not like you had any intentions to hide it in the first place.

A pinch of awkwardness that you feel at being put in the spotlight and your hands drifting to the back of your neck. 

“Well Diluc is a claymore user, and understandably claymores are quite bulky weapons to wield… but people here wield it with such grace and ease.”

“I was wondering if they would be able to lift me then.” one small look towards Diluc. 

“Needless to say, it clearly no big task for Claymore uses.” you smile faintly at him.

“Certainly not for Mr. Ragnvindr” and once again Diluc starts to feel warm at your words but the man chooses not to humor you with a reply this time, only by his classic and standard hmph. 

Al Haitham who has been intently listening to your assertions only nods at you. Of course, Diluc would be able to lift you there was no doubt of it. In spite of being a claymore user, the winery master was a formidable man. The scribe might not know a lot about him, but he does know that Diluc Ragnvinder more than knew his way around a conflict. Which makes his tendency to follow through your whims all the more curious of an affair.

But all his pondering seems to be disrupted when Kaveh points out yet another obvious. 

“Well, I wield a claymore too.”

One single statement and that's all it takes for all three of you to stare blankly at the Dendro Claymore user. Kaveh does not even seem all that fazed by the stares either, not when he was claiming that what was true. He is proficient in the use of the said weapon, not to mention the prospect of getting to hold you in his arms is enticing and right up his alley. 

 “So lifting you should indeed be piece of a cake,” Kaveh speaks looking at you directly, looking very much pleased and confident with himself.

“What do you say [Name]? Do you wish to be swept off your feet?” Kaveh asks and you're sure he's teasing you, but the question comes across so earnestly sincere and genuine that you find yourself feeling flattered regardless. The strive in his voice is more than enough to let you know that he’s willing to go through it too.

So who were you to refuse-

“I am hardly confident about that endeavor.”

Another moment was once again ruined by the esteemed Akademiya lunatic. And this time Kaveh doesn't even bother hiding his vexation and while the act of Al Haitham riling up the architect is no stranger to you, it is very much new to your Mondstadtian companion. But even he seems to be observing with interest. 

“Your opinion matters little here because I am more than capable of lifting up them should I choose to.”

Kaveh essentially hisses out his response, the clenched fists at his side a clear indication of his annoyance.

“The skill set you might have might be somewhat similar to Diluc, but your abilities vastly beg to differ.” 

Al Haitham explains cooly, keeping his gaze fixed on the apparent Claymore user. His arms crossed, almost as if explaining something elementary to a child no less.

“Wielding a greatsword is clearly a much-practiced skill for Diluc but that’s barely the truth for you Kaveh, given that most if not all of your actions are through or aided by Mehrak.”

And the architect all but rebounds at his statement, taking offense at the insinuation against him.

“My actions aren’t solely by Mehrak’s hand. You simply don’t understand the nuances of the connection between us.”

Comes Kaveh’s response sounding a lot more defensive now. His cheeks too, starting to color a little at being flustered and cornered like that. And while yeah what Al Haitham said was true.

It wasn't all on Mehrak to do the heavy lifting. 

“Nuances like making your weapon essentially weightless? And have it follow along with your hand gestures?”

Al Haitham really wasn't intending to make it easy for Kaveh and the scribe really makes it look obvious too. Making his words seem like facts rather than carefully articulated jabs. But you know him well enough to understand that it's not true. Al Haitham’s replies to Kaveh are thoughtful and articulate, for better or for worse. 

“It's not like you can do any better, wielding that sword of yours.”

This looked like it could go on for quite a while and you have half the mind to call in the shots for peace, but that was before the direction of the quarrel changes entirely.

“Heh, and you claim that you dont jump to conclusions, unlike you I dont rely on any gadgets for my sword wielding.” he huffs out a reply of his own before adding.

“In fact, I would have a much easier time lifting [Name] too.”

And you wonder to yourself just how did the tables turn like this? A few sentences changed the entire course of the ordeal, Kaveh muttering something along the lines of ‘impossible’ underneath this breadth, and Al Haitham now staring at you with an expectant look, wanting to get a nod of approval from you before proceeding. 

Hell in even Diluc looked mildly interested in this entire ordeal. Considering his flickering amongst the three of you.

“By all means then.” You reply in a resigned fashion to them all but especially Al Haitham you seem intent on holding your gaze the entire while as you went about speculating. And only gives you a nod in affirmation as he approached you. 

And much like diluc before, his body lowers itself, one of his arms hooks itself behind your knees, and the other goes about to support your back. You have to admit though that his touch does give you a little jolt. But it's not long before within one swift moment he's standing upright, with you secured within his arms. 

And although no gasp of disbelief leaves you this time, your arm almost instinctually moves to set itself across the expanse of his shoulders, the tail ends of his hair faintly brushing across your arms, which turn out to be surprisingly soft. 

That and the fact that his rather unrestrictive choice of clothing means you're able to feel just how well-built he is. It's rather distracting though and you'd much rather concentrate on your current predicament, rather than thinking about how very, very close you were to his chest, with how broad and strong his biceps look underneath his tight sleeves. At least in the case of Diluc, it was all hidden within layers of clothing, but with the scribe that was currently holding you? 

You clear your throat awkwardly, not wanting to go down that trail of thoughts, and then give in your verdict.

“Perhaps I shouldn't underestimate sword users after all.”

You look up at him briefly, his features are unreadable, and his face is set into a neutral line but he does turn towards you, catching your gaze instantly.

“You shouldn't jump to conclusions either, dont let Kaveh’s impulsivity rub off you,” he says in an almost amused tone, before turning to look at the architect himself. 

Unable to form a reply of your own you reside to follow his gaze and at the end of you you discovered a borderline fuming Kaveh, shooting daggers at the grey-haired man, almost bubbling with barely contained indignation.

He swiftly moves closer to the pair of you, pointing right at the scribe, as he proclaims. 

“Put them right back down and I’ll show you just how easy it is for me as well.”

The challenge is very much evident in his tone, which does nothing to faze Al Haitham though, the man promptly looks at him before starting to settle you back onto the ground. 

All the while you can only think to yourself, just what the hell did you end up starting? 

And here my dear readers lies the origin of the rumor that lifting up the Artificer is a favorable test of strength. Needless to say, it does end up becoming quite popular amongst the netizens of teyvat… 

Bonus

“Hah, you see Al Haitham? I can lift them just as easily!”

“Huh, perhaps you do have some semblance of strength after all.”

“...Is that a suitcase glowing behind your back” (noticed by diluc btw)

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

yk what im in a very good mood , so random fic be upon ye

Feedback is ✨appreciated✨

[solarmorrigan]

I’m so glad Robin got to rip Eddie a new one in Hands Where I Can See Them!! And ohhhh since Wayne was home when Robin was chewing him out, maybe Wayne will come in with some good advice or just parental disappointment in how Eddie handled everything. Especially if Eddie has to explain exactly how Steve discovered that Eddie thought they weren’t dating.

I love it when Wayne is a mediator in fics, but I also understand if you don’t want to add him into the fic, I just think Eddie needs a calm third party who knows he didn’t mean to hurt Steve, but will be disappointed in how he handled everything. Like what if Wayne had woken up and heard Robin’s parting shot and wants to know what she meant by that. How did Eddie dismiss Steve last night?

I’ve reread each part like five times now, thank you so much for sharing your fics 💖💖

Robin deserved to yell a bit! Not only did Eddie hurt her best friend (criminal offense), he also ruined her night, because Steve was upset, which means Robin is upset, yaknow? Like, of course she's going to do whatever she needs to help Steve out and make sure he's taken care of, but that doesn't mean she wouldn't rather nothing had happened to make that necessary in the first place

I actually did consider adding Wayne in at the end of the most recent part (did the man really sleep through that whole argument? we may never know), but I figured Eddie had probably been through enough for the moment without having to also immediately explain to his uncle what had happened. It bothers me when characters get dog-piled in fics for making a mistake - as in, person after person shuts them out or tells them how badly they've screwed up. It feels a little like saying that they really need to suffer before they can be forgiven, which doesn't sit right. Forgiveness should come from understanding how your behavior hurt someone and working to change that behavior; suffering doesn't teach you jack shit. But that's a different conversation! The point is, I'm at least trying to give Eddie breaks between people going "What were you thinking??" at him

I think Wayne will have to at least make an appearance, though. Steve's practically been living with them, and suddenly he's gone; Wayne could hardly fail to notice the change, even if Eddie wasn't suddenly moping around. And I do love mediator Wayne! The thing I want to avoid is using him as a kind of deus ex machina; I feel like sometimes we bring Wayne in to explain to Eddie how he's feeling, so Eddie doesn't have to work to reach those conclusions on his own (this happens with Robin for Steve, too, I think). It's helpful to have a third party as a sounding board, or to help break up self-destructive patterns, but I like it when characters have to do their own emotional heavy lifting

...anyway, that was probably a lot more rambling than you expected when you sent this ask, which was very kind of you to do and made me smile to read, so hopefully my answer didn't put you off??

[fayes-fics]

Your response was not too much! It was supposed to be a lighthearted (and cockamamie) ask, and I'm so sorry that that wasn't presented well. I really didn't mean to make it seem like I was equating anything kink related to actual, real, non-consensual torture, but I can see how it appears that way (yes - cringing v hard internally now).

Tbh, when going through images looking for something else, I came across that one and having just read part 3 of the series my brain made the weird connection. But only around the very out of context 'these specific things are happening' (if that makes sense).

I do have a habit of assuming that things that I genuinely take as a given (in this context; overt consent, trust etc in actual kink dynamics and the like) is understood and inferred by all. Ofc I agree with what you laid out, fiction or otherwise. It's not comparable to inflicting real suffering, and that should be understood by those reading or consuming any related content.

Also, love the overt colour coding system in Lessons, and that "yellow" moment was very well done. I very much appreciate the dynamic, in terms of trust and respect that you set out there. And in your previous response. ❤️

Hi there 🫶

Firstly thank you for reaching out and understanding why I responded the way I did. I thought perhaps that was your intent, but I realised a wider issue at play here that it was important to spell out for some folks, not necessarily for yourself.

Please don’t cringe, I never want to make people uncomfortable here or feel judged, I just realised there was a responsible way I needed to handle a reply that wasn’t flippant and but also (hopefully) didn’t make you feel bad in anyway (apologies if I did). Thank you for the grace of seeing all that and for your thoughtful response here 🧡🧡

I’m so glad you enjoy and appreciate responsible kink content. I will be honest, I do worry about people younger than me who perhaps have seen pornography that is not responsibly made and don’t fully understand how crucial consent is in proper bdsm culture. The overprotective smut auntie in me rearing it’s head lol.

This is a message for everyone - If I ever fail in my standards around consent in my content, I would appreciate feedback telling me so. Where I have written CNC (consenting non consent - ie where consent is given, but they are roleplaying as if it’s not) I try to make that clear in my authors note and warnings. But I’m always open to feedback around improvements to ensure I’m a responsible writer.

Thanks so much for reaching out. I hope you have a wonderful week and thank you so much for reading my fics. 😁🧡🧡

[sucrosette]

Genshin Fics

Xiaoven

Why Not? Rated G, Modern AU, Meet-Cute, Airports ONE SHOT

When Venti spots a handsome stranger in the airport, he figures he might as well introduce himself. It’s not like he’s got anything better to do anyway. His flight’s massively delayed and his phone’s not giving him enough of a distraction anyway. What could go wrong?

quiet ocean waves and cold air Rated G, Modern AU, Fluff, Valentines, Getting Together ONE SHOT

The one in which Xiao decides maybe he's had enough suffering through enough Valentine's Days and it's time to do something about it.

another day, another flower Rated T, Canon Compliant, Xiao-centric, Character Study ONE SHOT

Praying to the God of the Wind is a simple thing. All you need: a flower, a wish, and a breeze. One adeptus sends countless prayers up to the sleeping archon, patiently awaiting their inevitable return.

Whoops, There Goes My Heart Rated T, College AU, Getting Together, Miscommunication + Pining Chapter 8/8, COMPLETE

A simple little compliment shouldn't affect Venti so much, it's not like no one's ever complimented him before, but there's no denying he's absolutely affected by the sudden entrance of a certain tattooed athlete into his life. Xiao had only spoken one short sentence, and that was all it took.

Things I Do for My Extrovert Boyfriend, the Spooky Season Edition Rated T, College AU, Established Relationship, Halloween Fic ONE SHOT, Sequel to 'Whoops, There Goes My Heart'

Venti’s taking Xiao out on Halloween, much to Xiao’s distress. It’s one of Venti’s favorite holidays and one of the first times he’s had a boyfriend during said holiday, so obviously they’re going out. The only question is, what are they dressing up as?

The Care and Tending of a Monster With the Common Cold Rated T, Eldritch Venti, Human Xiao, Getting Together, Sick Fic ONE SHOT

What does one do when your slightly off putting and slightly unnatural roommate (who you kind of sort of maybe might have a crush on) comes down with a cold? Xiao doesn’t have any kind of idea, but hopefully if he gives Venti the same treatment Guizhong gave him when he was a child, some good might come of it.

and it was enough Rated T, Canon Compliant, Character Study, All About Xiao's Wings ONE SHOT

Or, how Venti is always, always the healing Xiao needs, when he least expects it.

Of The Half-Witch and his Bard Rated M, Fantasy AU, Half-Witch Half-Fae Xiao, Human Venti Chapter 4/23 IN PROGRESS

To say that Xiao was a bit of a hermit wouldn't be entirely out of line. He didn't leave the forest. He didn't partake in social niceties. His guests were more often than not entirely unwelcome. He preferred stretches of silence that could last long weeks, or sometimes even months at a time. But it wasn't so bad. He had his contracts to tend to, duties to perform that made his long years of solitude fulfilling. Xiao was content in his seclusion. But then, on another quiet day among many, one youthful bardling stumbled his way into his forest and Xiao couldn't help but wonder if his life would ever be quiet again.

Make This Home Yours Rated E, Modern AU, Roommates!, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti ONE SHOT Warnings: Non-monogamy, BDSM undertones, Mildly Dubious Consent due to Alcohol Consumption

Venti doesn't have too many friends in Liyue, let alone friends he could ask to crash with when he finds himself suddenly out of a home. But he takes a risk and asks Xiao anyway, and is pleasantly surprised when he's welcomed inside with little request for clarification. Inevitably, one night turns into a week, which turns into a month, which turns into even longer than that, and Venti and Xiao find themselves confronted with a lot of shifting feelings along the way.

He Makes Me Bloom Rated E, Band AU, Getting Together, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti Chapters 12/12, COMPLETE Warnings: Smoking, Depression, Anxiety, Too Many Feelings, BDSM

If you told Xiao five minutes ago he was about to join some enthusiastic stranger’s band, he probably would have laughed. Even though he pretty much never laughed. If you told him right then, right after it happened, he might have still laughed. This wasn’t his life, and he had no idea who was driving it anymore, but now he was in a band and the frontman could only be described with one word in Xiao’s mind: trouble. Oh yeah, and Trouble (spelled V-E-N-T-I) has an odd habit of making Xiao hallucinate. There’s that too.

Rosé & Bubblegum Rated E, Director/Actor AU, Porn With Feelings, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti ONE SHOT Warnings: Feminization, Jealousy, Exhibitionism, BDSM

Xiao and Venti may just be the entertainment industry’s worst kept secret, with their sneaking around and obvious shared hickeys and suspiciously aligned free time, but at least they were keeping some semblance of privacy. Well, they had been, but on the night of the New Years’ Eve Black and White Ball Venti seemed determined to push all of Xiao’s buttons for the entire industry to notice. Not that Xiao minded much. If Venti was that determined to be ruined mid holiday party, who was Xiao to deny him?

Thoughts of You Consume Rated E, Canon Universe, PWP, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti ONE SHOT Warnings: Feminization, Undernegotiated kink, Breeding kink, Exhibitionism, BDSM

The one in which Xiao gives in to so many temptations offered by the Anemo Archon atop the balcony of Wangshu Inn.

husband Rated E, CEO/Secretary AU, PWP, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti ONE SHOT Warnings: Exhibitionism, Questionable Lube, Cumplay, Heavy Sadomasochism

The one in which Venti can't get away with anything, even if he's supposed to be the boss here.

Your Breath's Divine Rated E, Canon Universe, PWP, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti ONE SHOT Warnings: Exhibitionism, Altar Sex, Sacrilege & Blasphemy, AFAB Venti, CNC

A night full of nostalgia inside the Church of Favonius takes a turn for unfiltered hedonism, and one anemo archon finds out just how good it can feel to venerate someone else under the careful attention of one Liyuen adeptus. Venti hadn’t exactly been expecting to see Xiao on this night, let alone learn so intimately the yaksha’s take on self-indulgence, but he certainly wasn’t going to complain about being on the receiving end of it.

If Love Was Labeled Poison Rated E, Genderswap, WLW, Angst, Exes, Top Xiao, Bottom Venti Chapter 1/3, IN PROGRESS Warnings: Angst. Angst. More Angst. Unhealthy coping mechanisms, Unhealthy Relationships, CNC

There's not enough liquor in the world to cure the ache of Xiao's absence, but Venti's doing her best to manage it all the same.

To Catch a Rabbit Rated E, Fox/Bunny AU, Non-Traditional ABO Dynamics, Alpha Xiao, Omega Venti ONE SHOT Warnings: Somnophilia, Breeding, CNC, Subdrop

The one in which we catch a glimpse of what a hungry fox's breeding season with the most fuckable little rabbit in existence might look like.

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Chongqiu | Xingyun

Iced Coffee is Not Supposed to be Spicy Rated E, Tattoo/Cafe AU, Top Chongyun, Bottom Xingqiu ONE SHOT Warnings: BDSM, Mild Exhibitionism, Bloodplay, Piercing Kink

Chongyun was a person of simple taste. He liked his job at Xiao's tattoo parlour, he liked plain iced coffee, and he liked the pretty barista who served him that plain iced coffee, even if sometimes it came out… wrong. It was starting to get a bit suspicious. Still, he could hardly hold it against Xingqiu when it meant Chongyun got to see him twice in a day.

Stop Squirming! Rated E, Tattoo/Cafe AU, Top Xingqiu, Bottom Chongyun ONE SHOT Warnings: Switching Implied, BDSM, Painplay

A direct sequel to 'Iced Coffee is Not Supposed to be Spicy'

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Ganqing

Sparking Electricity, Chilled Touch Rated E, Canon Universe, Dominant Ganyu, Submissive Keqing Chapters 5/7, IN PROGRESS Warnings: Exhibitionism, BDSM

Keqing really needs to learn how to take a break occasionally. Not that Ganyu's much better, not by any stretch of the means. But perhaps, together, they can find a way to relax.

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ScaraKazu | KazuScara

Pettiness in Portraiture  Rated E, Band AU, Transmasc Scara, Dom Scara, Sub Kazuha ONE SHOT Warnings: Angst, Hurt no Comfort, Toxic as fuck Relationship, Heavy BDSM

Scaramouche shouldn’t have been spinning plans as soon as he read about Kazuha’s return to Inazuma City, with his new life in his new band and their first tour. His feelings still tasted bitter even after all this time. Still, Scaramouche had wondered if it wasn’t an opportunity he could take advantage of. And he swore he wouldn’t let himself be vulnerable with the poet again, but with his hands thoroughly tangled in the blond’s soft locks of hair, he can’t help but think how much he’d missed this part of their dynamic.

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[alexandersimpleton]

Dork

We all know that The Incident was the main thing that happened but little ray of sunshine Frederick was too optimistic to completely wilt, so watch as he slowly gives up hope throughout a day.

(intended as a sequel to Loser, my other fic, but can be read standalone(

I was lucky I woke up that morning. A maid came in the middle of the night and let me out of that chest. I used to think it was really cool, like pirate treasure, but like, books, but I can't even look at it anymore. But It's fine, because my books are the real treasure! Or well, looking at how much carnage there was when I got out of what used to be my book trove, they were. 

It only really sunk in as a woke up. They ripped up the dragon horde too. It was originally a one of those fancy shelf thing for cakes with a only my favorite books in it, covered with a paper mache pile of gold a magical artifacts, and on top of the paper mache was a dragon, holding my #1 favorite, "The Tiniest Prince". It was really fun to make, and I was so proud when I finished it. But now it's just a bunch of scraps of paper and clay on the floor.

They also said some really mean things. Like that I was a "loser". Well maybe I wasn't... they probably just thought I was. Yeah! They just thought I was a loser and decided to be mean about it, just like dad! And mom, and Blain and probably even Lance- no! Not a loser! I'm sure there'll be other people in this school who know that... right?. . .

And thus, I set out to find someone to confirm my suspicions. After class at least. It looked like nobody was noticing me.. Well if course they shouldn't. They should be focusing! But they're talking to each other... And I should be focusing too!! God why do I get distracted so much! Freaking-! Stop brain! Geez it's one of these days again... Right class. And as I looked up, the teacher was erasing something from the board. It was probably to much for my (idiot- ug stop! Dad is wrong! Don't listen to him! Do it like the cool book people say!) brain to comprehend regardless. 

And after that I was slightly better at taking notes, though I was still getting distracted by every squirrel that scampered across the window sill. Eventually, after a long time if suffering, the lunch bell rang. This is my chance! Lunch time in schools is the most social part of the day! And thus I got my food, not awful for a school lunch, though I suppose that's because I'm royalty (my only redeeming- shut!), and decided to approach some kids at a table close to me.

But as I was leaving heading over, someone must have been putting their foot forward to far and I don't notice, so I tripped and spilled everything on the concrete floor and skinned my elbow. I probably would have cried because of the pain (like a baby! S-stop!), but my father said never to cry, so I held it in. "Sorry sunflower! Didn't mean to trip you!" The guy said as I scooped my food back into the tray, chuckling with his friends. "Oh it's alright!" I told him "they put all the meals in little bags anyway, so no harm done." He seemed really annoyed for some reason. Did I do something wrong?

But regardless, I approached the table of boys, and a couple of girls. The girls seemed to be getting really touchy with the boys. I only get that clingy when I'm having a lot of fun, so hopefully they'll have fun with me! But as I got close, they all glared at me, like I shouldn't be there. Was I (the worthless garbage I-. s-stop it. I'm not garbage...) ruining their fun? Should I back off? I should back off... I tried this with a couple more tables, but they didn't seem to like me either, and I ended up sitting in a table alone in a corner. Well now nobody's getting in my space.. Maybe I am just a loser... Or maybe I should try checking the park! Y-yeah, the park! It's really loud here, so the people who like reading and quiet must be outside! I can't believe I didn't try their first (anyone else would've). 

So I hiked around the school for a little while, it was really big y'know, and eventually found the exit. Nobody was there though. It was really pretty so people should be there (guess I was wrong again). But m-maybe there are people in the library. They might like me! But there was no one there either. M-maybe it's j-just this school. Maybe they just hate me, like father, and mother, and everyone else... geez who am I kidding? I am just a loser. But while I'm here, I might as well check something out. That might cheere up.

Looking though the isles and isles of books, one caught my eye. "The angel and the serpent"? That seems nice. And the cover art was pretty too. It looked about 10th grade reading level, judging by the blurb on the back. A bit lower than what I'm used to, but still interesting.

And as I opened it, there where the pretties pictures I've ever seen. The book was about a prophecy, about a hero, that seemed to just be a pile of dust, but was truly a mighty phoenix, that, with the help an angel with wings as pure as a white winter snow, would rise from their ashes a vanquish a great beast. And as I read further, I saw a man, stuck in a hole. I know what that feels like. But this man gets saved by and angel of fortune. He's respected across his village, and he says a mighty serpent. 

That sounds nice, being saved like that. He might be saved like that. Yeah of coarse he would! It happened all the time in fairy tales! Someone will come and help me, and we'll sail away from this place on one of my model ships, away from all the people who (know) I'm a loser, and everything will be happy...

But nobody came

[bitsandbobsofwriting]

Gorgeous, excellent, perfection, absolutely exquisite. Lovely to see you back and every second was well worth the wait of reading more of your work. I cannot wait for the second part (except that I’d wait many years to read it still). Hope life is treating you as well as you deserve and that writing is still a fun hobby/outlet rather than a chore. Never feel obligated to write or to share, but please know that I’m grateful for every time you do.

(Merlin’s anger is wonderful and needed and exquisite cause you can still read all the protectiveness that it partially roots from while still seeing all the past slights that turned it into this quick temper when faced with the knights/Arthur. And Arthur’s earlier almost “where’s Merlin” was such a wonderful touch. Adore having some of Leon’s perspective thrown in there, he’s always a personal favorite. The connection between Merlin and Mordred and his ability to see the bigger picture, to forgive things that shouldn’t have been in question to begin with, the bond formed now that Merlin is not up close to it all is just lovely. I could go on and on because there’s not one piece that lacked my attention and love) -c

(Referencing This Fic)

Not me having to leave the living room and have a big happy stim and cry after reading this🥺

It's been really tough for me to get things out recently, not for any bad reasons, I'm just very busy and have a lot of other things that are giving me more motivation, but it means so much to me that I have people waiting so patiently for my stuff!!

I absolutely still enjoy writing, and when I get into it, I get really into it. I'm on a bit of a roll at the moment (touch wood), so hopefully that continues long enough that I can at least finish this fic😅.

And I'm glad you picked up on so much!!! Merlin is such an integral part of Arthur's life, he definitely struggles to cope long term with the fact that Merlin is gone and is actually for real not coming back this time. And I hate when writers dismiss the friendships between Merlin and everyone except Arthur, Lance, Gwaine and Gwen. Yes, he may have been closer to those four, but he still spent significant amounts of time with the others.

This will be explained in more detail later on in the story, but Merlin got to a point in his relationship with Freya where... waiting was no longer an option. He'd waited and waited, and Freya was happy to go along with it and would be happy to continue, but... Merlin wasn't? So yeah, he still cares about the knights and Camelot, he doesn't really want them to die or suffer too much, but he is angry, and he didn't really want to see them ever again, and he'd forced himself to stop prioritising destiny. Because it wasn't just himself he was dismissing now, it was Freya, and the life they could have together (that they now do have) if he'd just turned his back on the prophecies. So as hard as it was, he made that decision, and it turned out to be the best thing he's ever done, and not caring about the prophecies means... he can be objective when it comes to Mordred. He can begin to see him as just a scared boy with magic, just like him, with so much faith and a heart so big it hurts. And he resents Arthur more, outside of failing as The Once and Future King, because he saw a teenager, a child, hold up a sword almost bigger than him and say "I want to fight!" with his chubby fingers and puppy-fat cheeks, and said "Yeah, alright." and what the shit is up with that?! Ya know??

We ALSO say FUCK toxic masculinity in the next bit :)))

Anyway. Shit is gonna go down. But there will be a happy ending :D

I love you guys so much <3

[literali1110]

Some more canon-Chenford thoughts...

So whether or not it seemed like Tim and Lucy deciding to take the next step was too fast, or too slow, or was missing some steps, I think it's worth realizing that they really are only at the beginning of their journey as a couple.

What we got in the winter finale, essentially, was them admitting that everything up until now, all these moments - which we also saw and read into - were indeed real and true feelings that they were developing for one another. (Yay!) But it still left a lot of open questions.

I've been thinking a lot about my previous OTP Olicity (I know there is some overlap in the fandoms and if not you can skip the next bit but I think you'll be able to follow). 4x22/5x01 for Chenford was 2x23 for Olicity. We have the pretending to be a couple/in love, except it's not actually pretend and is the catalyst for more. And then 5x08/5x09 parallels 3x01 for Olicity, when Oliver asks Felicity out on a date. I wasn't watching Arrow live at the time but thinking back on it, that also seemed kind of out of the blue. We knew Felicity had feelings/a crush and we suspected that Oliver did too - but nothing had been confirmed out loud. (So kind of a reversed Tim and Lucy situation.)

The date was when we finally got to hear them speak out loud about how they felt and when they started feeling that way. But Olicity's first date went horribly wrong. They didn't have their explosive, life or death, all-in moment (and first time) until much later in the season. And it was a few episodes after that (following circumstances that kept them apart) before they could ride off into the sunset.

And even later on once they were together, there were still challenges and obstacles they had to overcome which only strengthened their relationship. (I won't discuss the whole break up and getting back together because I honestly think that with Chenford taking 5 seasons to get together, we luckily won't have to suffer through that.)

Anyway, I guess that Tim and Lucy taking that next step didn't happen quite how I pictured it, but on the other hand it hasn't completely happened yet and I'm hopeful that we have many more moments to look forward to, now that we know the show has committed to them:

I want that first awkward date where they don't know what to talk about because they've spent hours and hours riding together and talking about everything. I want them to clear the air about all the miscommunications that caused them to think that the other one wasn't interested. I want them to admit when they first started thinking of the other in a romantic way. Hopefully we get their first "real" kiss (c'mon Tim!).

Maybe the date doesn't end well, or maybe it ends very well.

But regardless, I think (hope) there will be a key moment in a later episode when they realize just how much is on the line for them career wise if they truly want to be together. Maybe Tim takes a step back for her own good and Lucy gets mad at him for making decisions for her. Here's where I can picture a huge explosive fight turning into their all-in love confession /explosive first time!

And they'll have to decide what to do at work and if they keep their relationship a secret. Then there's the whole issue of Lucy's UC career and how Tim feels about that. And then they'll have to navigate just normal couple things, like how they build their lives together despite their differences in personality, how they see their futures...down the line, discussing moving in together, marriage, kids. I think there can be some really rich story lines for them even once they are officially dating.

This got long! But I think, bottom-line, we are really only at the beginning of their story and I think there is some great potential for all the things we want and were hoping for in their journey to still happen, not to mention some pleasant surprises we may not see coming.

And as always there is A03 to turn for when we're looking for more (just in this post alone there are a few ideas for fics I have)! Thoughts are always welcome :)

[one-sad-human]

•Worth It• Duff Mckagan

Pairing: Velvet Revolver era! Duff Mckagan x Younger! Reader

Requested? Nope!

Theme: Little bit of everything/???

Warnings: Language, panic attacks, anxiety references, drug references

Word Count: 3k

A/N: Fic 2 of 2! This is the longest fic yet! Took a different approach to writing this one, hopefully it payed off. Let me know if you guys liked it or if I wasted my time with this one lol.

     You had met Duff in a coffee shop in LA. It was crowded and you were lucky enough to snag a chair before the lunch rush. Duff wasn't, and asked you if he could sit at your table.

     You grew up with Guns n Roses, bought his solo album the day it came out when you were just 15, and now listened to Velvet Revolver faithfully. To see your idol, your celebrity crush stand right in front of you holding a cup of coffee and a scone sent you for a loop.

     "Of course," you had said, starry eyed. You were only hoping he was as kind as the interviews made him out to be. Maybe have a conversation with you and be polite for a while before leaving and never seeing each you again. That would be good enough.

     It didn't end with a coffee, it had just begun. He asked for your number, and you stared at him for a moment thinking you had imagined it. That was until he tilted his head a little and looked at you with a nervous expression. He backtracked and you immediately stopped him.

     "No! I mean— yes! Yes, you can absolutely have my number." You scrambled for a pen and paper and ended up scratching your number on a receipt from the record store. You shook so hard you could barely get the numbers down.

     Out of all the record store receipts you've stuffed into your bag, the one you gave Duff Mckagan had to be the one for when you bought Velvet Revolver's 'Contraband.' He didn't say anything, just smiled and promised to call.

     You honestly didn't think he would've. You played it off as just him trying to be nice. It didn't stop you from answering every call you got for the next three days, however, even if you recognized the number as the tax collector you'd normally never answer.

     But then he called.

     "I tried calling sooner, but I kept calling the wrong number. You don't have the most eligible handwriting," he had told you. You laughed but really, you were in shock.

     You set up a date at the fancy restaurant downtown that always intimidated you. You didn't say anything though, even though you knew you wouldn't want any of the overpriced food and you'd end up eating something you couldn't pronounce and was two portions too small. Maybe even hit up a fast food joint afterwards.

     When the day finally came, you couldn't even figure out what to wear. You couldn't tell if you looked underdressed or like you were trying too hard. Did the clothes even fit the right way? What would Duff think? Would he even care?

     All questions were answered when you left your house. Duff was leaning against his slick car parked in your driveway, a button up that was barely buttoned and dress pants with boots. He stared at you and you wanted a hole in the ground to shallow you up until he smiles.

     "You look gorgeous," he said. You blushed and grinned, thanking him before saying that he looked great too. He drove you to the restaurant and on the way, you talked about music.

     You shared some of your favorites, he adored how well rounded you were. You liked pretty much everything from punk rock to the mellowest of mellow. Duff mentioned some of his favorites, some you made sure to remember the names of so you can check them out.

     When the ride was over and you finally got to the restaurant, your previous fears came back. Duff reassured you looked better than 90% of the people there and you knew it wasn't true but it made you feel better anyway.

     Your eyes widened to the size of saucers when you saw the prices of the food. You knew it'd be pricey but you thought there'd be more options that stayed within two digit numbers.

     Duff saw your panicked expression and said not to worry, he'd pay. It didn't settle your nerves enough and when the waiter came, you ordered the cheapest and simplest thing you could find.

     "Chicken noodle soup?" He teased. You shyly looked down and shrugged. "This isn't your scene, is it?"

     "Not exactly, no."

     "Want me to be completely honest with you?" You nodded. "It's not mine either."

     That's all it took for you and Duff to scramble sheepishly out of the restaurant. You both shared a laugh in the car and went to Burger King. It was much more your speed and, as you'd find out that night, Duff's too. You suppose all the money he's had since such a young age didn't completely change his ways. He was like a kid trapped in a 40 year old man's body.

     You'd thought at first the age gap would feel strange, after all, you were 15 years younger than him. But after that night, it was barely noticeable. Funny looks from strangers every once in a while was nothing.

     By the second date, Duff was already aware fancy spots weren't your forte. He told you it was a surprise and to wear something cozy, as LA nights got chilly.

     He packed a picnic basket and drove you out to the most beautiful flower field you had ever seen at sunset. It was secluded and high up, giving a perfect view of the city skyline. After gawking and taking in the sights for a few moments, you regained your ability to speak.

     "It's gorgeous. Pretty far from the city, did you take me here to kill me?" You joked. He laughed and rolled his eyes. His lighthearted laugh sent sparks straight to your heart, and you decided that it was your favorite sound.

     You unfolded the blanket Duff brought and you both sat down. You ate the sandwiches and sliced fruit Duff packed and talked. You talked about everything, from your family to fears and insecurities.

You told him how you suffer from nightmares. Flashbacks from your broken childhood coming back to bite you in your sleep. Duff shared how he's suffered from panic attacks since he was a teenager. You felt you knew each other for years.

Neither of you felt weird for sharing and neither made the other insecure. You were completely open and honest with each other. It was strange, you've never connected to quickly and effortlessly with someone before. Sure, you've had men in your life, but never had you clicked with someone so fast, never had you fit with someone so perfectly.

Hours passed and it felt like minutes. Only did you realize how late and how exhausted you were when you saw most of the city buildings light have gone off for the night. The city that didn't sleep was dark.

"I should get you home," Duff said to you.

"Will you stay the night?" You felt a little silly for asking. Were things going too fast? Would he even want to stay over?

He agreed, and that's how your first night together went. You both stayed up even later and had more lighthearted conversations, unlike the ones that partook at the field. Like how one of Duff's first jobs was at a bakery and could bake a mean cake and how you can't cook to save your life.

You ended up waking up without remembering falling asleep. You're head was placed comfortably on Duff's lap while his head was lolled back against the couch cushion. He looked so serene and peaceful you couldn't help but smile at the sight.

You made toast and somewhat successfully cooked some eggs and bacon. It might have been the first breakfast in years that didn't end with the smoke alarm going off.

Duff eventually wandered into the kitchen and you both ate. By the time he left, another date was already set up. He was like a drug an you were already hooked.

Months later and the addiction still wasn't kicked. You didn't want to, and Duff didn't seem to want you to quit either. You both soaked each other up like the sun on a warm day.

You had almost weekly dates and you stayed over each other's houses almost every other day. Duff did have his kids some days, though, so some days dates were cut short or Grace and Mae slept over his house and you wouldn't see each other.

You were always understanding, his kids came first and you'd never blame or get upset about it. It's something Duff admires about you, your never ending understanding and empathy for him.

One of those days where Duff stayed over at your house started normal. He cooked dinner and you washed the dishes, and then you put on an old Ramones concert you had on DVD.

You were laying on his chest, his fingers running through your hair when all of a sudden, he tensed up. He quickly stood and excused himself to the bathroom. You frowned but before you could think much of it, you heard a loud bang and something clatter to the ground.

You jumped up and rushed to the bathroom. You swung open the door because you were perfectly aware the lock hasn't worked since you moved in.

Duff was sitting on the floor, a pill bottle laying on its side not far from him. You quickly spot the name of the medication and identified it as your anti-anxiety pills. You shoved them aside and sat next to Duff.

He was sweating bullets and his skin felt cold and clammy, his breaths were labored and heartbeat was loud and pounding erratically. You coax him gently to take deep breaths, holding onto his hand tightly and talking quietly.

"I'm sorry, they come on randomly sometimes," he apologized after he'd called down, but you quickly shushed him. You reminded him of just how many nightmares he'd comforted you for and he stops feeling so bad about it.

     It was always a true partnership with Duff. Never had you felt you gave or took too much, it was always equal. Always a two way street, with everything.

That wasn't the last panic attack you had to help him come down from. Later down the line you've gotten better at calming him down and learning his triggers, even though sometimes they really do come on suddenly without reason.

A year into the relationship was when you met Grace and Mae. They were young and didn't completely understand why their parents weren't together anymore, so it took them a while to warm up to you. Luckily, they eventually came around.

Duff and Susan met up regularly to discuss their kids and co-parent properly. And while you had all the reason to be jealous of your boyfriend with his ex wife, you never did. You had complete confidence in him, he was honest and loyal and you doubted he'd ever hurt you purposely.

That's why it destroyed you when he left you. Tears were shed from both parties as he gave his reasons for breaking up with you. His insecurities he tried his best to bury had come to light and nothing could change his mind.

You thought you were completely honest with each other, but you suppose his doubt in his relationship with you was the one thing he kept secret. He had somehow convinced himself you'd be better without him, between the constant touring and the baggage that came with him and his kids, he finally buckled under the weight and stress.

You had tried to convince him that he was worth it, but if Duff is one thing it's stubborn. The best relationship you'd ever have and the best year of your life went down the drain within the matter of one conversation.

You were down in the dumps for days. You barely left your bed and didn't ever leave your house. You were in a depression and couldn't get out. A few of your friends eventually found out what had happened and broke into your house and shoved you into the shower before taking you to your favorite Chinese restaurant.

You felt like a disaster. Your hair was ratted despite the shower and you refused to put real clothes on, instead wearing sweatpants and a shirt Duff had left behind. You were a mess.

The hole in the wall restaurant was never busy but always had the best food. You were almost happy your friends dragged you out of your home until you saw Duff sitting at a table, eating egg rolls and lo mein.

You've came here together all the time. The high sodium in the food always made him sick to his stomach and you'd always end up giving him nausea remedies and tea. He never changed his order though.

You locked eyes with him for a while. Dark bags were under his eyes and he looked more pale than usual. He looked as terrible as you felt. You weren't sure if you were spitefully glad he felt awful or if the despair on his face just made your heart break further.

When you couldn't take his intense jade stare anymore, you looked up at the menu. The next time you looked back he was gone, you weren't sure if he was really there at all or if you were finally losing your mind for good.

     Another week crawled by. You got better enough to continue working. You had to pick up extra time for calling out for a few days after the breakup. You wouldn't say things were going well, but you weren't crying in bed every day all day anymore.

     You had constant dreams about him. Some were nice, ones where he didn't leave and you were together, holding each other tightly. Most were nightmares, flashbacks of when he left. You didn't have him to comfort you anymore when you woke up soaked in sweat and tears, and that might've been the worst.

     Another week went by, and you were starting to get back into the swing of things. You still thought about him, even silly little things reminded you of him. Like when you would catch a sniff of freshly baked sweets like he'd bake you or certain songs playing on the radio. It also didn't help that you ran into people wearing Guns n Roses shirts on the daily.

     You also refused to get rid of anything he'd left behind. Tee shirts, guitar picks he left from when he'd play for you, or CDs from bands he introduced you to. Reminders of what you lost were scattered around your home but you couldn't bring yourself to do anything about it.

     Suddenly, it's been a month. You weren't over him, but you had a feeling you'd never be completely. He was something special, you can't forget things as special as your relationship with Duff.

     His items still weren't thrown out or returned, instead all packed in a box sitting in your closet. But you'd be lying if you said you would never reach into the box to grab a shirt to sleep in or a CD to listen to when you needed a reminder of the good times. You were making progress though.

     You decided to leave your house one evening. You were feeling especially terrible and wanted to take a walk to clear your head. You went to the coffee shop you had first met Duff in. Maybe it was a mistake to go and get a flood of memories but you couldn't stop yourself.

     You sat in a seat near the window and people watched, taking occasional sips of your drink. It was quiet except from the talk of the workers and the hum of the overhead speakers.

     There was a sudden squeak of a chair of hardwood floors and it broke you out of your daze. You snapped your gaze up to meet the very familiar green eyes you've been trying to forget.

     "Can we talk?" He asked, and you couldn't say 'no.' Duff sat across from you and started off by apologizing.

     He said he wanted to talk to you sooner, but was too afraid you wouldn't want anything to do with him. You rolled your eyes at that, if only he knew just how much you missed him.

     He then started from the beginning and explained why he made the decision to leave you. As it turns out, it was mostly because of stress. His bandmate Scott was having problems with drugs and the flashbacks from his GnR days frightened him. He was worried he would end up relapsing and he didn't want to drag you down with him.

     Combine that with all the troubles that came with dating a single father, and he couldn't take it anymore. He felt too guilty.

     It all seemed like ridiculous reasons to you. Even if he had made the mistake of falling off the wagon, you still would've stuck with him. And you didn't mind his kids at all, after nearly a year of knowing them and you were very close to them.

     "I love you, Duff. I wouldn't have left you over that, I'd help you through anything. And I love Grace and Mae, too," you told him.

     "I know, but I didn't want you to have to deal with all that baggage." You frowned at that. You reached your hand across the table and grasped his, squeezing it tenderly.

     "You're worth it."

     After that day, you and Duff started seeing each other again. It wasn't the same as before, but maybe even better.

     You were more transparent with each other. If one had a worry or problem, you'd go to the other. You talked everything through with him and he did the same. Even if it seemed insignificant, talking everything through never failed to make it better.

    You were happier and healthier than ever before. Sure, there were a roadblock or two, but they only made the relationship even stronger, and you wouldn't have changed a thing about it.

[youbloodymadgenius]

Ivarello (Modern!Ivar x reader) Chapter 1

Moodboard by @quantumlocked310

Ivarello’s masterpost here

A/N: This is my entry for @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie 500 Followers Fairy Tale Challenge. It's a retelling of Cinderella. Congrats again, darling 💖

A huge thank you to @mrsalwayswrite, who's a great beta reader and an even greater cheerleader 😂

A massive thank you to @quantumlocked310, @vikingstrash and @serasvictoria. Thank you for agreeing to collaborate and for sharing your talent with me. Your moodboards are beyond amazing 🤩

In this story, Sigurd is alive. Ragnar and Aslaug are dead, but Lagertha didn't kill her. I took a lot of liberties with the show, I hope you won't mind.

Unlike the tale, there will be no magic involved. Not everything will be realistic, however. It's a fayritale, after all!

Let me know if you want to be tagged 😊

Summary: Orphaned five years ago, Ivar and his brothers have been living with Lagertha ever since. Now 16 years old, he wants to attend Harald's traditional Midsummer party, but obstacles stand in his way.

Warnings: description of car crash; orphaned kids; Sigurd being Sigurd; OOC characters.

Words: 1806

Additional note: I'm afraid I'll disappoint some of you. No more newspapers... The articles defined the setting of the story. From now on, it'll be a regular fic.

Hope you enjoy it nevertheless 🙂

🛡⚔️🛡

June 2021

Ivar yawns, rubbing his eyes, when he suddenly hears the front door open. The next moment, Ubbe shouts, "Hey baby bro, we're home!"

Slightly confused, Ivar looks at the time on his computer. Stunned, he blinks repeatedly, shakes his head and checks the time again, now looking at his watch. "Guess I lost track of time," he mumbles as he realizes it's really 5:30 pm. He clears his throat. "I'm coming!"

Yawning once more, he wheels to the kitchen. Hvitserk waves at him with one hand as Ubbe greets him with a grin and Sigurd... Well, Sigurd ignores him, as usual.

"Hello boys!" Lagertha smiles as she also enters the kitchen. "Did you go to the beach this afternoon?" It's a rethorical question, since sand can be seen on the tanned skin of his brothers, shirtless and wearing only swimming shorts.

When she looks down at him, her smile becomes softer. "Ivar, you seem tired. Did you work all day long?"

He nods, glad that for once she called him by his first name and not by one of those stupid nicknames that she likes but that make his skin crawl.

"Yep," he shrugs without smiling back, "I made good progress. The new version of your website is almost done. It could probably be online by the end of the week."

His stepmom flashes him a beaming smile. "Great, thanks!"

The conversation then moves on to the subject that everyone in Kattegat has been talking about for the last few days: the midsummer party thrown by their neighbor Harald Hårfager. Every June, it is Kattegat's not-to-be-missed event, to which every resident hopes to be invited.

Lagertha is invited every year, yet rarely attends; his brothers wouldn't miss it, not in a million years; Ivar never went.

He listens with half an ear as his brothers prattle on about the upcoming party, while taking a seat at the large, wooden kitchen table on which Lagertha has just put cakes and drinks.

"What are you going to wear?"

"Do you think Marit will attend this year?"

"Hopefully the music will be better than last year."

"Can't be as bad! What was the name of that reggae band?"

For a fleeting moment, Ivar entertains the thought of attending as well. Not that he's dying to, but… Sometimes, he feels a little bit like Cinderella in this house.

Don't get him wrong, it's not that bad.

First, his stepmom is not–

Wait, wait, wait, is Lagertha technically his stepmom? He's not sure. After all, she wasn't when his parents were alive, she was just his father's first wife. Anyway, she may be his guardian now, but he sees her as his stepmom and he honestly doesn’t give a shit if it's a little weird.

Where was he? Oh yes, Cinderella.

So obviously, Lagertha is not a wicked, haughty and abusive stepmom like this Lady Tremaine of the fairytale.

Actually, even if it pisses him off to admit it, she's pretty nice, patient and composed. Does he love her? Let's not exaggerate – he doesn't. She may love him though, which is a little bit uncanny, if he's being honest. He was the favorite son of her nemesis. Shouldn't she hate him? He would, if the situation was reversed.

The truth is, when he was younger, he tried, he really tried to hate her, blaming her for everything and anything. When too much pain prevented him from sleeping, he let his imagination run wild. There, bound to his bed of suffering, he could see Lagertha cutting the brakes on his mother's car, causing her crash, causing her death.

Of course, even then, he knew deep down that Lagertha had not killed his mother; that the story he told himself was just the product of his endless nights of insomnia. But what can he say? He needed this. Because blaming Lagertha rather than admitting that his beloved mother was at fault – by being distracted, or by falling asleep, he'll never know – was easier for the heartbroken boy he was.

Anyway... So yes, Lagertha is definitely not an evil stepmother like Cinderella's.

Also, he doesn't sleep on a sorry garret, on a wretched straw bed either.

Actually, he has a very large room on the main floor, with a king-size memory foam bed, a walk-in – well, a wheel-in for his case – closet and his own, huge bathroom, fully equipped for his special needs.

Sure, the bathroom and the dressing room were already there when his parents were alive; however, the memory foam mattress had been Lagertha's idea.

Anyway... So yes, he can't exactly complain about his sleeping conditions, unlike Cinderella.

And obviously, he's not forced into servitude.

Actually, one might think so, but no, he's not. Sure, sometimes he works for his stepmom, like today. But so do his brothers. When she had taken them in, she was a powerful businesswoman, working twelve to fourteen hours a day. Once she had become their guardian, she had rearranged her working time and learned to delegate; but even so, she had often run out of time. Therefore, it had seemed normal to them – yes, even to him – to help her out, each of them according to their skills and abilities.

So, while Hvitserk almost always does the grocery shopping, while Sigurd vacuums and does the laundry, while Ubbe mows the lawn and trim the bushes, he, Ivar, runs her company's website and sometimes even does the accounting. And since he loves computers and numbers, it's not exactly a problem.

Anyway... So yes, he's not a slave in this house. Unlike Cinderella.

So, yes, to sum it up, he can't really complain and he's by far not Cinderella. And he knows it.

But... Yes, there's a but...

Sometimes, he feels trapped, as poor Cinderella must have felt.

Sometimes he feels like a spectator of a life he doesn't belong to.

Sure, he doesn't have to be homeschooled – but gods, he's glad he is. The reasons for him to be continuously bullied by classmates are endless. The simplest ones being: he is a cripple, an orphan, the son of a dead mob boss, the smartest one in the whole damn school, let alone his class. Take your pick. It's no fun, no fun at all. Being home alone is preferable to that alternative.

Therefore, barely leaving the house except for medical appointments, he has no friends. He doesn't do sports either – obviously – and yeah, he lives a lonely life, filled with video games and Netflix series. And he's okay with that. Well, most of the time.

Sure, his brothers, or at least Ubbe and Hvitserk, always try to include him as much as possible. But the truth is that because of his legs, there are many, many things he just can't do.

And the other truth, the less pleasant one, is that he partially did that to himself. He cut himself off from a world that hurt him, yet he still misses this world sometimes. At times, he blames himself. Because his life, honestly, is hardly what you would call a life, is it? Not when you're sixteen.

That's why sometimes, like now, he feels this longing, almost a need, to live. To really, truly, fully live. And that's why, for a brief moment, lulled by the light chitchat of his brothers, he considers attending Harald's midsummer party.

But he knows better. This life is not for him, never has been, never will be.

And so, shaking his head, he chases the thought away and, placing his hands on his push rims, he's about to leave the kitchen while the incessant babbling of his brothers goes on.

"I can't wait."

"Don't tell me! As every year, the most beautiful girls of Kattegat will be there."

"Remember that burger food truck? Best burgers ever!"

"I've heard Y/N would be attending this year."

"There'll be booze and girls! Sounds like Valh–"

Wait. His mind goes blank.

Fuck.

What? Did he hear right?

As he replays his brother's words in his head, it's like there's an earthquake happening inside of him.

Fuck.

He stops breathing. Blinks, then clamps his eyes shut.

Fuck.

When he finally manages to draw air into his lungs, he swallows loudly before asking in a weird, high-pitched voice, his heart pounding in his chest, "What– What did you say, brother?"

Hvitserk turns his head toward him and shrugs. "I just said there'll be boo–"

"No, not you!" Ivar snaps at his brother, pointing his pointer finger at Ubbe. "You, what did you fucking say?" Out of the corner of his eye, he can see Lagertha frowning – 'no curse words in this house, boys'– and even if he barely contains an eye roll, he still mouths a quick 'sorry' at her before rewording his question, impatience coursing through him. "What did you say, dear brother? Who did you say would attend?"

Stunned, Ubbe looks at him with wide eyes. "Y/N? I said Y/N would come. That's what I heard anyway. She's Harald's niece. She was here once, right? Remember her, baby bro, huh?"

But Ivar is no longer listening, the blood draining from his face. Y/N... Y/N... Fuck. Finally. Fucking finally. After so long... He may see you again. Wow.

I'll go! I'll fucking go!

He barely contains the words, suddenly acutely aware of the deafening silence in the room, his brothers shamelessly staring at him.

With her brows furrowed and her lips turned downward in a slight frown, Lagertha takes two steps forwards before crouching down in front of him. "Are you all right, sweetie? You're a little pale."

He barely hears when Sigurd giggles, "A little pale? He's greener than an alien!"

Lagertha shoots Sigurd a dirty look and then gently cups Ivar's cheek. "Do you know her, Ivar? Do you know Y/N?"

Overwhelmed, self-conscious, freaked out, caught off-guard, he doesn't know how to respond. Should he tell the truth? Should he lie? His brothers will mock him, for sure. What is the point of telling the truth? What good would it do? On the other hand, he could really use some advice. Yeah. Sure. Advice from Sigurd. Just the thought of it is enough to make him sick. Fuck, what is he going to do?

Rushed words are out of his mouth before he can even gather his thoughts. "No. No. I don't. I mean, yes, I think I do but–" He's being pathetic and he hates it. So after a sharp intake of breath, he shakes his head and eventually replies in a flat, calm voice, the white lie rolling off his tongue. "I know her, but I thought Ubbe was talking about someone else. Sorry."

With these words, he hastily leaves the room, his eyes riveted on his knees, his heart still drumming in his chest.

Y/N. Fuck.

🛡⚔️🛡

Ivar's taglist: @waiting4inspiration @honestsycrets @lisinfleur @saldelys @gearhead66 @inforapound @readsalot73 @milkkygirls @xbellaxcarolinax @shannygoatgruff @zuxiezendler @hecohansen31 @lonewolf471 @fuckindiva @tgrrose @didiintheblog @peachyboneless @pieces-by-me @funmadnessandbadassvikings @ethereallysimple @destynelseclipsa @cocovikings23 @xceafh @mrsalwayswrite @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie @pomegranates-and-blood @jadelynlace @grimeundglow @quantumlocked310 @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom

Ivarello's taglist: @not-another-viking-fanfic-blog @hashimily @prepare4trouble @supernaturalvikingwhore @funmadnessandbadassvikings

[oh-three]

F, K, M, S, X and Y for the ask game

F: Share a snippet from one of your favourite dialogue scenes you've written and explain why you're proud of it.

A thought hits him, then, and he blinks hard. “I can’t believe Kelly’s gonna get that big…”

Grant sits down on the couch beside his old dig partner as she says,“Your daughter?”

"Uh-huh. I have another, and, uh- and a son. Twins.” Ian tells them, wondering if he had mentioned Kelly at the hospital or if Grant had told her of their conversation in the tour car.

He wouldn’t put it past the man.

He circles around the back of the couch to stand between the television and the front door, leaning against the wall. His leg appreciates the gesture, despite how unnerving it is to face the pair directly. “Don't see them often enough."

“Why not?” Grant asks, his frown more perplexed than anything. And Ian almost laughs out loud, because, isn’t it obvious?

"Tell me, Dr. Grant, does this,"he waves a hand over his haggard self,“scream…reliable to you?”

"What the hell, Ian, we've known each other for four years.”

Yeah, this one's from my Jurassic Park one-shot WIP.

Anyway, the reason I like it so much? It really fleshes out the personalities of Alan and Ian, and their dynamic. It shows Ian's regret of not being there for his kids as well as how formal he still is at the same time that he's a literal human disaster (Isla Sorna and San Diego'll do that to someone). And Alan's last line, where he's literally annoyed by that formality? I can hear it, and it's way too funny.

K: What's the angstiest idea you've ever come up with?

What's the angstiest idea I haven't come up with?

Really, though, literally all of my writing has angst. This one's genuinely a tough question.

Gonna have to say the second to last chapter of the Temple bombing fic, though. Can't say too much other than the fact that it involves someone traumatizing someone else by accident. That fic and the ones following, are rough. And not just for Rak.

M: Got any premises on the back burner that you'd care to share?

winces in doesn't fully understand the question

According to Google, a premise is like a side of a controversial topic or something? Anyway, hopefully I'm answering this right.

So, hot topic: The Grand Inquisitor didn't necessarily like his job.

Reasoning?

Well......You gotta do what you gotta do to survive.

If he didn't obey Vader and Sidious, it'd be his death, and he was clearly terrified of Vader (and resentful of him, but that's not relevant right now), so he had little choice but to obey. It's a tragedy, what happened to him.

There's no proof that he didn't enjoy it, obviously, but...I like to think he didn't.

S: Any fandom tropes you can't resist?

Honestly, I'll read almost anything if it's about a character I want to more content of. As for writing, anything angsty. Whatever brings the most pain to literally everyone (characters, readers, myself).

There's something wrong with me.

On the contrary, I do love enemies to friends (with a sprinkle of angst of the "enemy" regretting horrible actions). Friends to enemies is another. Absolute pain. ❤

X: A character you enjoy making suffer.

Literally everyone. Happiness is not an option.

The Grand Inquisitor

Jack Sparrow

Cobb Vanth

My own OCS

This list is literally endless, I kid you not.

Y: A character you want to protect.

Ironically? Yeah, the very characters I enjoy torturing. It's a very weird paradox, but I live for it.

[fablecore]

hii!! I always wait before reading ur update bc I want them stacked up, but when I read it...

I remember why I LOVE ur fan fiction, and it always brings a smile to my face!!

don't know how to describe it but reading it gives me such a warm feeling, like it's enveloping me in a warm cocoon!! fuzzy, cozy, etc feelings!!

speaking of feelings: this chapter made me laugh, cringe, cry, smile, angry And so MUCH MORE. ur so talented in connecting the scenes, evoking the feelings and make me want more!!

like straw hats being sus of Sophie! Pain sophie trying to act evil! cringe but also kinda endearing

sophie telling usopp about her escapades! funny urghehsi

also didn't realize how toxic sophie and law relationship actually is/could be until I read the comments and thought about it. like it's romantic ig to say I will wait for u etc. law sometimes acts contrary to his words, so u would thing it's a 'tsundere act' and he will turn around and the stuff. but what u show us is the reality, that law is serious about the boundary and with his mission in the way, the relationship can't continue or even begin. bc it's her first relationship sophie is still naive and hopeful (kinda), even if she's the realistic type... (hopefully it was understandable, other comments were more eloquent)

so what the straw hats are doing despite them (or rather Luffy) hating her, is just so heartwarming

also reread the triangle/quadrangle with ace, law, sophie and sabo to heal and see law suffer but yeah

also wish an au were Luffy and Sophie are like friends and doing shenanigans, idk if u wrote that with Ace but like Sophie just showing a dynamite down Luffys throat to watch the reaction (for science) or her just flipping out bc Luffys ridiculous, his D-ness etc

just their dynamic.. what could be.. but yeah

Luffys feelings and conflict are understandable thought and Sophie is also trying to underline his assumptions and repent in a way..

(btw I just at the end that Sophie CAN'T SEE HIS FACE BC OF REGRET, SHAME ETC ur just such a GENIUS, LOVE IT)

anyways have nice day!!! and thank you for writing such a wonderful story

hiii thank you for this kind message!! 🥰 i hope you have a nice day too. and get to smell some pretty flowers and/or drink a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows (two of my favorite cozy activities that go perfectly with cozy reading)

not to give too much away, but i don't think we'll need an au for soapy and loofah shenanigans. for better or worse, they're stuck with each other for the next few arcs. you'll see a lot more of their dynamic!

it still amazes me that despite my fics being quite silly, there are people who read it with the gravitas of a classic novel and write these long pensive comments about how they interpret the story. it's incredible and i love them. i try to keep my replies vague and let the reader experience the story the way they naturally experience it... but i'll say one thing about law and sophie's relationship.

individually, pure sodium and pure chloride are so toxic they could kill you. but when they're toxic together, they make delicious lifegiving salt. ya know? 🧂

[madslorian]

madslorian weekly fic recommendations!

Some of these characters I've read so much that they will be moved off of the Misc. Characters Masterlist and onto their own! I love that this library is growing :) All of these fics will be uploaded onto my (masterlist) either after posting or tomorrow.

authors mentioned this week are:

@and-i-swear-we-are-infinte

@absurdthirst

@songsformonkeys

@opheliaelysia

@bison-writes

@slater-baby

@mylifeisactuallyamess

@starlightmornings

@ohpedromypedro

⊱{Din Djarin}⊰

GUILT (SERIES) BY AND-I-SWEAR-WE-ARE-INFINTE

Ahhh! This was my first submission/recommendation by somebody! I got a little overwhelmed by schoolwork so I'm currently on chapter 2 of 5 but I'm really enjoying it!!! Go give it a read and let Carli know what you think of it!

There are 5 chapters so far (all linked above on a masterlist) and the background is if Moff Gideon captured somebody else for his experiments after Din saved Grogu, but what if Din went back for them too? This idea intrigues me a lot plus I looove force-sensitive reader arcs! The first chapter set up a really good story so I will definitely be catching up soon

⊱{Dave York}⊰

*STORMY SECRETS (PART 1 // PART 2 // PART 3) (MINI SERIES) BY ABSURDTHIRST

NSFW! All three parts of this perfectly capture the greatest suburban murder daddy ever, Dave York. Reader is the York family's nanny (shocker, another Dave x nanny!reader story I read...) and grows closer to Dave, as Dave shows what lengths he will go to for what's his. And also poor Carol gets screwed over again... oops.

*SEVEN YEARS BY SONGSFORMONKEYS

NSFW! After escaping the murder business, reader is hiding out in a cabin in the woods for years before seeing Dave's face in the market. After showing up at the cabin and getting his ass beat, Dave reconciles with the reader and admits he wants out of the business too

⊱{Ezra}⊰

*THE EXACT COLOUR BY OPHELIAELYSIA

NSFW! This story felt so poetic and so beautiful to read. First off, artist!Ezra is magnifique, but using the metaphor of your body as a canvas and Ezra painting it felt so sensual and intimate, it didn't feel like smutty/sexual. I yearn to be touched and loved like this by my partner and I think this emphasized how lonely I am lol

ZENITH BY OPHELIAELYSIA

Another one that made me feel incredibly lonely, sigh. BUT the yearning is real guys. This little ficlet makes me feel like Ezra's kisses are filled with so much emotion and probably hold the electricity of the entire galaxy. Something about each and every one of them feels comforting and safe, and these lines made me melt: “If I told you the words, would you keep them safe for me?” “Of course. I’d keep anything safe for you”

*BENEATH THE MOON'S GAZE BY OPHELIAELYSIA

NSFW! Okay, this jumps like RIGHT into smut, but the way that this entire fic is written feels so intimate to me. Like it's intense, pushing limits, and just so heavy with sensuality. But everything about sex with Ezra seems just as poetic as his words are and this nails it

CONNECTING THE DOT BY BISON-WRITES

Pure fricken fluff, that's all. After losing his arm and dealing with recovery in the med bay, Ezra meets Dot, a beautiful gal who is mute. The kindness and softness she extends to him makes his heart just melt, and they soon become business partners

⊱{Pero Tovar}⊰

PREGNANCY HEADCANONS BY SLATER-BABY

Suggested NSFW, so mind the tags at the beginning. As somebody who heavily enjoys reading pregnancy headcanons simply because I adore children... this hit the sweet spot. This isn't even just like a headcanon it's a full-on backstory on how reader and Pero met and it's super adorable. I love the idea of big gruff man holding a tiny baby and just absolutely melting

⊱{Poe Dameron}⊰

HE'S HOME (AO3) (MINI-SERIES) BY MYLIFEISACTUALLYAMESS

Poe returns home after being captured on Jakku and reader can tell something is not right with him. The third chapter broke something inside of me I think...

KNOWING BY MYLIFEISACTUALLYAMESS

Poe comes to comfort reader after an outburst with Leia, and tells the truth about how he actually suffers behind his cocky attitude and pretty boy smile

HE USED TO BE MINE BY MYLIFEISACTUALLYAMESS

True story, this fic shoved me into an alleyway and beat me and my emotions up. ANYWAYS! I should be sorry for suggesting this sad fic, but I'm not because I believe a reader should have at least one fic that makes them feel like a bus destroyed any happiness they had for that day.

I already reposted this with my honest review of how much it made me cry so I'll keep this short. Reader and Poe are getting a divorce after Poe cheats, but every single second of this story had me on the edge of my seat wondering if they would work things out. I'm still struggling to put my emotions into words

⊱{Marcus Moreno}⊰

*ROOM REQUIRED BY STARLIGHTMORNINGS

NSFW! I had a friend send this one to me... and let me tell you, she knows my taste. Reader works in IT for the Heroics, Marcus comes down to get a replacement part, they end up having a quickie in a locked closet. Typical smut, hehe

THERE'S NOTHING SEXY ABOUT ANATOMY BY BISON-WRITES

Suggested NSFW, but no smut in this one! The line explaining the reader "felt like a baboon in heat" made me CRY with laughter and the purple dildo!! But I like character x nanny!reader fics, and it's becoming a bad habit. Anyways! Hopefully, there will be a part 2!

⊱{Max Phillips}⊰

CHRISTMAS WITH MAX BY OHPEDROMYPEDRO

Oh my god, this was so adorable! Christmas obsessed reader really hits home and the idea that both you and Max have such amazing gifts for one another is super adorable. I would quite literally die for Max, because y'know... eternal life with him and his bad old vampire self