#behold my coping mechanism

[lavenoon]

when your comfort doesn't like your other comfort 😔

@naffeclipse he's getting his cuddles one way or another <3

*self insert is not a girl (he/ she)

og detective au by sunnys-aesthetic!

[iiinkos]

i see people who havent finished tma yet posting their thoughts and i eat that shit up. especially the early season ones, you have no idea what you’re in for 🥰 i watch them and i laugh

[ghostinthegallery]

🎯 Have any of your readers accurately guessed major plot points? Care to share which?

💖 What made you start writing?

🎯 Yes! As a matter of fact someone has recently guessed a major plot point in TSATS, although it hasn't happened yet so I won't reveal what it is. I do like it when people guess things. I feel like it means I'm properly foreshadowing and setting things up. And when people are wrong it means I'm not making things totally predictable. I welcome all forms of speculation.

💖 I genuinely had stories in my head that desperately needed to escape. It was either write them down or let them drive me mad. My brain's loud enough already, I don't need made up characters clogging up the works too. Writing has also really helped me cope with my depression/anxiety. It gives me something to focus on rather than doom spirals, it's steady progression, and my stories make me happy.

[lifeandtimesoftrying]

*white knuckling the bathroom sink and staring myself in the eyes* just because something has hurt you and people you love doesn’t mean that fully banning it would be good just because something has hurt you and people you love doesn’t mean that fully banning it would be good just because something has hurt you and people you love doesn’t mean that fully banning it would be good just because something has hurt you and people you love doesn’t mean that

[brucewaynehater101]

Y'all, I love Tim being excluded from the Bat family angst. This angst is my bread and butter because it's so funny (my coping mechanism is laughing leave me be).

Why is it funny?

Tim was basically excluded from his first family unit (his parents sent him away to boarding school to be a family together, and then, after his mom died, his dad got a new wife pretty quickly). After the initial emotional neglect, he goes out to find himself a family. He works damn hard putting that family back together and earning himself a spot. Lo and behold, he gets excluded from that family too.

That's like 3 family units he gets booted from. His other found family unit, YJ, also gets murdered (or joins a cult) around the same time his dad dies. Tim should, realistically, have serious attachment issues. Poor guy :(

[reginalusus]

Hii, can you recommend comics with Harvey in them? Please❤

I can certainly recommend you some my faves in no particular order! <3

Batman Annual #14: The Eye of the Beholder (1990) - His definitive origin IMO, it has everything you need to know about how he became what he is now, I highly recommend.

Detective Comics #1062-1089: Gotham Nocturne (2023-2024) - Bruh, I can't even get into it. It's gorgeous and does Harvey so much justice in terms of his DID and overall psyche. It also contains one of his most badass moments, so yeah.

Batman #410-411: Two of a Kind/Second Chance (1987) - Two-Face and Robin (Jason Todd) shenanigans, my beloved. <3 Also features the iconic two-toned car panel.

Joker #1: The Joker's Double Jeopardy (1975) - Joker-centric obviously, but I love how Harvey always has a one-up on him throughout it, lmao.

Secret Origins Special #1: Two-Face (1989) - I'm a sucker for Harvey showing physical prowess, ok?

Robin: Year One (2000) - Not for everyone, Harvey is a fucking menace to society in this but he's such a fun villain to read and, ahem. Suspenders and baseball bat. <3

Task Force Z (2022) - Jason and Harvey, Jason and Harvey, Jason and Harvey, Jason and Harvey, Jason and Harvey, Jaso- Also Harvey is BIG in it. <3

Batman #572/Detective Comics #739: Jurisprudence (1999) - Really, really good scene with Harvey and Scarvey fighting each other in a court argument.

Batman and Robin #23.1: A Tale of Two Faces (2013) - Again, not for everyone, but I love how scary he kind of is in this. I love me a scary Harvey.

Batman: Gotham Adventures #12 (1999) - Bruharvey. Big Harvey. Sad moments.

Detective Comics #1020: Ugly Heart (2016) - Harvey has a cult. Bruharvey moments. Love how it lightly (really lightly) touches upon Harvey's more... sadder coping mechanisms. Not perfectly, and not explicitly (just my reading) mind you, but eh. Some badass moments and big-ish Harvey. :)

I have more in my head but I don't want to overwhelm you, lmaooo. Also, check out @about-faces for tons of more recs, their blog is the Two-Face library. Happy reading!

[alienpossession]

My stepson is a rather troublesome kid, especially after his mother's passing. He soon dropped out of college, losing the sense of direction he had and just straight out spiralled into a mess. Not to mention that his coping mechanism involved him to hung out with the wrong crowd and start smoking too despite his mother in the past clearly forbid him since he was a prospective star athlete. He also started to grow agitated to the world and overall just disrespect authorities, which included me as the last person that is bold enough to reprimand him while on his way to do his antics

After one of our early morning argument as he arrived back home from clearly a long night he did doing God knows what, he just stormed into his room after giving me a middle finger and cursed under his breath. I decided that enough is enough and I did what I knew best to handle reckless and wild human like that

You see....I was not from this planet. I arrived around 20 years ago into this farmland where I stumbled with this young studly farmer that just about to start his days. I slid into him and never left his body as I decided that I would be safe and undetected as long as I did not slid out of him while the search for me was still active. I was paranoid that if I ever left this body, suddenly the detection system spotted me so I resisted the temptation to leave and remained hidden inside while controlling this human that I cultivated into the best version it could be. But this little punk really pushed me to my limit. I'm just so desperate trying to prove my humanity and ability to disciplined the smaller and younger human I supposedly have authority over, I pushed myself out and slid into the sleeping body of my stepson. Once I slid in, I went straight to his brain and started to work it while he's sleeping soundly with zero awareness that a far more intelligent being is currently rewiring his organ responsible for free thinking into one filled with obedience and submissiveness. I was not necessarily the expert on brain's anatomy but I know which part I should and should not touch. Once I felt like my job has been precisely executed, I slid out of his brain and entered back to my original vessel.

Now, imagine my surprise that not only I made that punk into a more docile and submissive version of himself, I somehow made him gay too as I checked on him after the rework I did to his brain. And I guess I graced the part where he can pick up aroma even more strongly this time and that caused him to be a musk-whore for everything's sweaty and pungent. His obsession to his own pits clearly were a sight to behold as it was a far cry from his womanizer self I have to witness for the past few years he brought home girls to his bedroom.

Aside from his own self, he also loved me. Not the usual familial love, this boy is clearly fucked in the head as he viewed me as some sort of authority to please. It's like him calling me daddy is laced with sexual innuendo rather than the usual way a kid called up his parents. So, like the good father I am and to avoid getting him jumped on me while I sleep as I didn't satisfy his needs, I decided to change our family time where I asked him to have dinner with me to him sniffing my feet and servicing my needs. It's not as cool (and normal human looking) as having him seated next to me watching the TV together or having warm dinners, but that's the way we live nowadays and not like he's complaining anyway.

I guess I really need to do better with all this brain rewiring

[soshirohoshinasimp]

the journal

@imthecosmicbasball

tw: mild swear words

Wc: 461

genre: secret admirder, fluff

sorry for any mistakes, I speedran this fan fic on my phone. 4

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

“Every moment spent with you feels like a beautiful dream I never want to wake from. Your laughter reverberates through my soul, and your smile brightens even the gloomiest of days. Thoughts of you consume my mind incessantly; I ache to hear your voice and behold the sparkle in your eyes filled with joy," you wrote quietly in your soft pink journal, its pages adorned with sketches of Vice Captain Hoshina, your unattainable crush.

Yes, you were hopelessly in love with him, though you kept this burning passion veiled behind a facade of icy composure. No outward expression would betray your deep-seated emotions; instead, you buried yourself in work as a coping mechanism.

Your workstation in the tech department was strategically placed near Hoshina's office, affording you frequent glimpses of him—exactly as you secretly desired. But why did you love him so desperately?Why did you want him so urgently?

For one, he had saved your life years ago—an indelible mark on your heart. Strike One

 Despite neglecting basic needs like food, water, and sleep in favor of work, it was a routine that concerned even him. Caught once arriving at 4 AM after toiling until 11 PM, Hoshina scolded you gently, "Get some rest, Y/N-chan. It's not good for ya." His concern, coupled with those caring words, sent you spiraling into a whirlwind of 'what ifs,' your cheeks flushing with hidden embarrassment. Strike two

Then there was his infectious laughter and perpetual sunshine aura that brightened your every day, and of course, his undeniable cuteness that rendered you weak-kneed. Strike three.

You loved him to the extent you would willingly face a bullet—or even a meteor—for him.

The best part? He remained oblivious to your feelings. (If he knew, it's all over.) —until today.

During lunch break, while socializing outside your department, disaster struck. A neglected tear in your backpack became the unwitting gateway for your journal to slip through. Panic surged as Vice Captain Hoshina, wielding your unmistakably pastel pink journal, questioned aloud, "Does anyone recognize this journal?"

Silence descended like a shroud. He checked each person's handwriting, inching closer to your desk. The door swung open just as he neared, and you walked in to find him holding your journal—your worst nightmare unfolding in a span of mere minutes. "H-hey, that's mine!" you blurted out, lunging forward to snatch it from his grasp, heart pounding. You shoved it straight into your backpack, displaying a wide range of emotions like embarrassment and close to tears. 

"So... I brighten every day of your darkest days?" he teased with a mischievous smirk.

Oh fuck no. 

He had read it.

At that moment, as mortification began to engulf you, you wondered if it was too late to volunteer as kaiju bait.

[valarie-lovely]

"Only Lasting Good Thing" Adam Stanheight x reader ♡

TW: Angst ~ Fluff ~ swearing ~ Self Harm

Adam had just escaped the Jigsaw trap and he's been more emotional and depressed than ever before. He only finds comfort in the burning of his own skin with his lighter. Desperate for affection without having to ask for it, Adam tries to find a healthy coping mechanism for his PTSD.

CHAPTER 1: ALL I NEVER WANTED

—☆—☆—☆—☆—☆—☆—☆—☆—☆—☆—

All alone, sitting on the curb outside his shithole apartment. The flame continuously burns, then immediately flickers off every time Adam lets go of the wheel on his lighter.

The only spark in his eyes is the reflection of the orange flame, turning on and off like a flashlight. He shuts his eyelids, bringing the flaming light closer to his wrist, wincing once he feels his skin slowly decay under the heat.

He huffs out a whine when his thumb slips off the hot, metal wheel of the lighter, then he looks down at his burning skin. He believes it's the only way to get rid of his burning hatred for himself and everyone else around him.

Everyone else but you.

Speaking of you, he suddenly hears a door swing open from behind him, the door that leads you inside his apartment complex.

"Adam, baby, it's been 20 minutes. It doesn't take that long to smoke a cigarette, you know. Come inside."

Your voice echoes throughout his mind, slowly clearing out every other self-deprecating thought that lingers in there. He could never say no to you, not after his trap. Not after how much you managed to help him in his darkest moments.

"C-coming, love." He coughs, his shaky hands almost dropping his lighter as he scrambles to get up and follow you inside.

You stand and watch as he slides his cigarettes into his pocket, along with his black Bic lighter. Adams always picky with his smoking "tools", you'd say.

He always picks Marlboro's, and if he needs a new one, always a black Bic lighter. He hasn't changed one bit with those choices ever since high school.

He follows behind you inside like a lost puppy, keeping at least a 3 foot distance. Far enough for personal space, but close enough to grab you if he needs to. He just always wants to be close to you, because he knows you're the only one who cares.

When you make it into the apartment, the whole place smells like cigarettes and some other smell from a candle, yet it's hard to decipher the scent. And of course, Adams' cheap cologne lingers in the air.

"Listen, I didn't mean to take so long outside. My cigarette—" he chuckles, trying to play it cool. "I dropped it down the gutter, so I lit another one! That's why it took me so long, I have butterfingers, im sorr—"

"Arms. Now." You cut him off. You stand in front of him, concern and disappointment shines in your pupils, knowing what he actually had been doing out there alone.

His hands tremble as they stroke the hem of his jeans pockets, and his diamond eyes can't even bother to look into yours. He's embarrassed in himself. "I.. I can't do that." He mutters out, his Adams apple bobbing when he swallows his saliva.

You take matters into your own hands once you grab his forearms, bringing them to your chest to examine them. Low and behold, there lies about 5 burn marks along each one of his wrists.

Your chest tightens and your heart quits beating for a second. He promised that he'd stop. He promised that he would be good and that he wouldn't bother to ever feel a flames heat again.

He's just a pathetic liar.

"I'm.. sorry." He quietly whispers, sensing your immense disappointment. He can't bring his eyes to look into yours, let alone speak another word.

"If you were sorry, you'd stop. You've said sorry numerous times before. Sorry doesn't cut it anymore, Adam!" You begin to lash out, taking your bottled up emotions out on this poor excuse for a man.

He stands there like the boy he is. Unmoving. Broken. Lost.

"You're a liar! A fucking liar, Stanheight! First, you say you have never hurt yourself intentionally before. Then, you say it was one time. And then, you told me you would stop for good! Why can't you see that you're ruining your own life!"

He stands there as if a knife had just been twisted into his heart, causing all blood in his body to sit still. Tears that were recently threatening to fall from his eyes finally do, streaming down his cold, rosy cheeks.

"Baby, I—.." You stutter out after seeing the state hes in, but you can't find the right words to apologize for your anger. So, you do the only thing you know how to.

Bringing him closer, the cold feeling of your fingertips press against each side of his neck as you bring him into your embrace, gently stroking the back of his head.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." He repeats like a broken record. His diamond blue eyes flood with tears. The sobs of a broken man escape his lips once you two fall to the floor.

You quickly shake your head, denying his claim. "No. This is my fault. I should be helping. Yet, instead of that, I'm lashing out at you as if you're a bad guy. You're not a bad guy. You're my baby boy.."

[jejebean]

In a Crowd of Thousands

Gojo x F!Reader || A Bridgerton / Regency Era AU ♔

Inspired by this song from Anastasia

A displaced princess taking refuge in a foreign land, and a Duke with manners unbefitting his station. While one of you cannot afford to tempt scandal, the other relishes it. Your paths crossed on a fated Summer's day long ago. Forgotten in the whirlwind of time, yet haunted, by your smile, by his eyes.

Content Warning: Reader's traumatic past, anxiety, unhealthy coping mechanism, Gojo's rakish behaviour.

Prologue | Chapter 01

══════════════════

Your POV

Focus on your breathing.

In, out.

‘What’s the worst that could happen? The Queen’s court being stormed and everyone thrown out or slaughtered? What are the chances of it happening twice?’

The corner of your lips lifts ever so slightly at the morbid thought.

You admit that there must be a healthier way to deal with your anxiety. Whatever adversity you might face from now on would pale in comparison. You might argue that it has made you stronger, but in truth, you feel so paper-thin at times.

Adorned with fineries, your maid keeps saying that you are a sight to behold. However, you feel anything but. The weight of all the jewels, the gown, and even the feathers on your hair, are all crushing down on you.

Breathe.

You know the rules by heart. Remember, you were a princess once, albeit in a foreign court.

You glance at the looking glass, and a young lady looks back at you. A perfect little debutante. An epitome of elegance, in her intricately embroidered white silk gown and carefully braided hair. Ready to step into the light, into society.

“Are you ready, my lady?”

No. I’m not.

“Yes, I am. Thank you, Nobara.”

One step at a time, one foot in front of the other, you walk down the stairs into the grand hallway of the Kamo’s manor house. It is all new to you, as you’ve been hidden away in the country with your numerous tutors and governesses. You can see the two figures waiting for you. The Earl, and the Dowager Countess Kamo; a frail and quiet old lady with her white hair styled neatly in court fashion. She is going to present you to Her Majesty the Queen today. The Dowager keeps to herself most of the time and practically disappeared from society when her son, the late Earl passed just two years ago.

“You look exquisite, Lady Kamo.”

The man standing next to the Dowager, extended his hand to help you down the last couple of steps. Your dear cousin, the new Earl, Kamo Choso.

“Thank you, my lord.” You smile, as you accept his steady hand.

He has been your constant companion and confidante, almost like an elder brother.

It is a warm welcome to have him by your side as you step into the marriage mart. With his long black hair slicked back neatly, you can clearly see the dark circle adorning his eyes. He has worked tirelessly to fix the estate left in shambles by the late Earl. You wish for him to find someone that could help lift his spirits. Alas, he would laugh and say, ‘I have more important things to do. Let us focus on you first little duck.’ In his eyes, you’re still that trembling little girl.

“Are you ready?‘ His voice, low, as to not agitate your already frayed nerves. The only one genuinely concerned for your well-being. He knows you too well for you to hide your nature.

“Not really, but the show must go on.” 

“Try to relax, little duck.” He teases.

“You don’t suppose I’ve transformed into a swan today?” You gesture at the white plumage on your head.

“You’ll always be little duck.” He chucked. “Also, that’s Ostrich feather, dear cousin.”

You rolled your eyes. Very unbecoming for a lady, but with Choso, it matters not; you’re as he says, just a little duck.

…

The morning has been a flurry of white silk satin, and feathers scrambling in the debutantes waiting room. Young ladies desperate for perfection, and their mamas fussing over every little detail. You are grateful that the Dowager Countess who’s presenting you is lost in her own thoughts. It allows you a moment of respite in the chaos of the day. You blink back the fog of trance, as the royal footman calls out your name.

“It’s our turn, dear.” The Dowager turns to you and offers a kind smile. You can detect a tinge of sympathy in her voice.

“So it seems. Thank you, Lady Kamo.” You smile back, grateful.

Waiting by the great white door, there is a sinking feeling in your chest. You’ve only heard rumours of the Queen. How Her Majesty’s opinion is all that matters in this society.

Breathe in, breathe out.

Time slows to a halt as the door opens and you hear the court presenter’s voice booms like crack of thunder down your spine. You steel your gaze, as you remember your lessons. Your senses drone out the whispers of the Queen’s court.

One step at a time.

Slowly, walk with pride.

Curtsy with all the grace you can muster.

You cast your eyes on the carpeted floor as you lower yourself gracefully.

“Rise, my dear.”

And there she is. Her Majesty the Queen, right in front of you.

With her discerning hawk-like eyes, she studies your face, your figure, and your mannerisms.

“I remember your mother. You look just like her.” She paused. ”I’d say, well done.”

You are unable to breathe for a second, as the air in the room has stilled. You couldn’t believe that you’ve somehow managed to gain the queen’s favour. Has she somehow mistaken the mask you put on over your anxious disposition for serenity and grace? You don’t know what to feel.

On one hand, it will help garner intrigue from suitors. On the other, you are now the common enemy of the young ladies vying for the eligible bachelors.

…

Ijichi’s POV

In the morning of the presentation, across town, a butler is trying fruitlessly, to remind a certain Duke of his responsibility.

“Your Grace, we cannot break from tradition.”

“It is a stupid tradition, and I can do what I want.”

Slender fingers deftly reach for an arrow, playfully aiming at the poor butler. 

The young man pulls against the taut string of the bow and at the last second, flicks his aim away and unleashes the arrow. The butler flinches as it hits the tree next to him, dead centre.

“You are hosting the first ball of the season. You are obligated to attend!”

“No, my mother is hosting the first ball of the season. I, can do what I want, Ijichi.”

“Your Grace, you promised the Dowager Duchess to open the ball. It is a mark of a gentleman to honour his words.”

The Duke curses under his breath.

“Fine. I’ll dance at the ball.” He paused. “But I won’t open it. Give that job to someone else.”

Satoru grabs another arrow and quickly aims it at the same tree. Despite having grown up amongst the highest rank of nobility, he possesses none of the genteel mannerisms expected of the young Duke. The butler is only grateful, that at least the master will somewhat behaves appropriately when he has to make a public appearance.

Ijichi hoped that if by some miracle, a young lady might catch the Duke’s attention. And Gojo Satoru might even begin to start acting in a way that befits his station.

But as he watches the Duke unleash arrow after arrow on the unsuspecting tree, he ponders his retirement from service.

Your POV

It is finally time for the first ball of the season. Your nerves have recovered a little bit since the presentation. The rattling of the carriage against the cobblestone street is strangely soothing. As you look out into the night, the twinking of the city light seems most enchanting. You only wish for Choso to escort you to your first debutante ball. However, his work has kept him chained to his study and likely so for the next few days.

Your carriage pulls towards Gojo Manor, one of the grandest in town. The manor is a sight to behold. With ivy-covered walls, illuminated in the dark, took your breath away. You can see beautiful young ladies chatting away excitedly, entering the manor with their chaperones. You can’t help but feel a little giddy. The future is after all, full of possibilities.

Carefully, you stepped out of your carriage, helped by the manor’s footman. A soft gasp could be heard as you stepped into the light of the manor. You are wearing a shimmering light taupe gown, embroidered tastefully with delicate floral designs. But the eyes of the ton are locked onto your neck; adorned with diamonds and blood-red rubies, the trademark of the house of Kamo.

‘Fit for royalty’ Choso teased, as he escorted you to the carriage with an apologetic smile. ‘All eyes will be on you, little duck. I guarantee it.’

‘I wish you could be there with me. It would feel terribly lonely with just Lady Kamo.’

‘You won’t feel so lonely when you have all the bachelors in the ton filling up your dance card.’

‘I’ll try and do you proud, Cho.’

‘You already have.’

…

You know Choso means well, but the pin-prick of a thousand eyes keeps you on your toes. It might have been too much. You steady your breath, with head held high, just as you’ve been trained for your entire life. The very picture of grace and elegance, as you walk into the majestic ballroom. Gentlemen begin to step forward as the Dowager Countess, your chaperone, makes the introduction.

You smile graciously as one name after another makes it onto your dance card. Praying, that your heart will not betray you, as it pounds deafeningly loud underneath. The whispers have started again, as the ever so envious mamas of the ton poured venoms into the ears of the impressionable daughters. Who can blame them, you think to yourself, as a woman’s place in this society is dictated by the turn of the seasons.

The night seems never-ending as you spin from the arms of one gentleman to another. Choso was wrong in one regard. The many gentlemen who vy for your attention do nothing to dissuade the feeling of emptiness in your chest.

“Ah, it is good to see you back in society, dear Lady Kamo.”

“Splendid evening, Your Grace. You have certainly outdone yourself.”

Ah. This must be the Duchess. She cut the most breathtaking figure in the room. Her hair was decorated with sapphires and white roses, the symbol of her house. You hurried over towards your chaperone, hoping to pay your respect to the hostess.

“Have you met my ward, the young Lady Kamo.” The Dowager gestured towards you as you curtsy. “And this, my dear, is our most illustrious hostess of the ton.”

“You flatter me, Lady Kamo.” The Duchess regards you with a warm smile. ”I see you have taken the Kamo name for yourself.”

“Your Grace, I am most grateful to be allowed the honour of your invitation to this marvelous ball.” You curtsy, as perfectly as you can.

“Nonsense, my dear. Do enjoy yourself.” The Duchess seems amused by how formal you are behaving. Quiet the opposite of her unruly son, she thought to herself.

“Tell me, Your Grace, is the Duke present at tonight’s ball?”

A slight twitch on the corner of the Duchess’s lips would have been missed if you were not so vigilant. Looks like the young Duke is a sore spot for her.

“Ah yes, the Duke is attending. Though presently, I cannot tell you of his whereabouts.”

The two ladies, you have learned, were old friends. As they catch up on the latest gossip, you shift awkwardly, wishing you could sink into the walls, away from it all.

“Oh, don’t mind us, my dear, do go and enjoy yourself.”

You take the dismissal as an opportunity to slip away. Just for a moment, you want to get away from the ever-judging gaze of the ton. You look around and your eyes are set upon a small bench in the garden, against what seems like a hedge maze and topiary display. It is clearly visible from the ballroom’s balcony, and not too far out. Surely, it is not too improper.

A moment of respite is all you need. Just a moment, and not a second more.

You wander out into the night with haste. As the sweet scent of the garden bloom fills your lungs, your spirit lifts. You can see one of the manor’s footmen is keeping a watchful eye on you as you sit down on the cool marble bench by your lonesome. Thankful for the precaution, you feel more at ease that the Duchess seems to genuinely care about the participants of her ball. You close your eyes letting your senses immerse in your surroundings. The cold marble seat, the sweet scent of roses, the rustling of the hedge wall tickling your back, and the gasps and moans of-

Your eyes shoot open. Surely, You must be mistaken? Try as you might to deny it, the voices are getting louder by the second. Your heart starts to pound in your chest. You contemplate your next course of action. You should rush back in right now, else you might be engulfed in the most shocking scandal of the century.

Who on earth-

No, that’s not important right now. You have to go back in.

You should. You must!

You will yourself to move, but it seems your knees have other plan. In a moment of haste, your world comes crashing down. The footman keeping watch on you makes his way over to assist you. A sudden thought flashes in your mind. If he comes closer, surely he’ll also notice the voices behind the hedge.

“I’m fine. Truly!” You call out. “Oh, how silly of me. Seems the hem of dress was caught on my heels.”

The footman stops on his track, and gives you a nod, as you try to wave him away.

‘Why exactly?’

You sit back on the garden bench as you try to compose yourself.

Why did you try to stop him? Why are you trying to cover for the people you know nothing about?

As you try to calm your heart, you notice that there is silence.

‘Good. Seems like they heard me and ran off. Now I can have my peace.’

“Well, well, what do we have here?”

You freezes.

The silky voice coming from behind you has chained you in place.

“You know, I’d expect this behaviour from a kitchen wench, but not a highborn lady such as yourself.”

‘Can he see me? It can’t be. No, there is still a hedge wall separating the two of you.’

You gather what courage you have left and answer.

“How would you know that I’m a Lady? Perhaps you are mistaken, sir.”

“‘Your Grace’, I believe, is the appropriate title.”

Ah, it all makes sense now.

”And I know the Duchess’s ball is tonight. No servants would be allowed to wander the ground needlessly.”

“And what perchance is this behaviour you speak of, Your Grace?”

“I won’t insult your intelligence. But you know full well that eavesdropping on someone else’s…activities, so to speak is beneath you.”

“You would do well not to assume-”

“I do suppose I have to thank you for your discretion, at the very least.”

“Ah yes, but you mean to insult me first with your accusations.”

You keep your eyes forward in a steady gaze, as the man seems tongue tied. You recall the Duchess’s behaviour from earlier when old Lady Kamo mentioned her son. The footmen being overly vigilant on the ball’s attendants. It is all because of this man. The Duke. Even from his voice, you can tell that he is a very proud man. Acting as he pleases, and brandishing his title and superiority.

“I believe the Duchess is looking for you, Your Grace. Now I must take my leave before I catch a chill —or worse.”

“What is your name?” He sounds a tad calmer this time, devoid of the smugness from earlier.

“I do not think it wise for me to reveal myself.” You stand up carefully this time. ”Let us forget this exchange, and I’ll spare you your blushes, Your Grace.”

“I do not believe it is fair since now know who I am. Tell me your name.”

“I apologize Your Grace, but you might recall that it was you who chose to reveal who you are without me needing to ask. Besides, I can’t just introduce myself to a Duke without someone to facilitate an introduction. You see, it is not proper.” You added the last bit just to get a rise out of him.

“Hah! You know full well that nothing about this is proper, you insolent girl.”

“I bid you Adieu, Your Grace.”

“Hold on-”

Feeling like you’ve made an enemy of the man, you quickly walk towards the safety of the ballroom. You hope that you’ll be allowed to slip away home early. You might be able to make up a cold, and that should allow you to dodge a couple more balls until Choso is able to escort you.

…

After hurrying to the powder room to pick off the bits of grass from your gown, you are now back in the lavish ballroom with your chaperone. The Dowager seems to be enjoying herself being back in society after a long mourning period. You feel slightly guilty for trying to convince her to cut the evening short.

“What’s wrong my dear, you seem a bit flushed.”

“Lady Kamo, I-”

“There you are! Lady Kamo, may I introduce to you, my son, the Duke, Gojo Satoru.”

Your head whips around towards the Duchess so fast, you are almost sure you snapped something in your neck.

And there he is, the Duke, finally in front of you. A beautiful man with silvery hair, and blue eyes so dazzling they —Those eyes. You draw a sharp breath upon seeing the Duke, and his mother must have heard it.

“Are you alright, my dear?”

“Yes. I’m perfectly fine, Your Grace.” You reply, with a timid voice, cautious. You don’t want the Duke to realise who you are.

You sneak a glance at the man, before fixing your gaze on his midnight blue lapel. Thankfully, the Duke seems disinterested. For now, at least.

“Pardon us, Your Graces, it seems that the young lady caught a chill in the garden.”

Oh.

Before you manage to utter a single word, the Duke steps forward towards you like a bolt of lightning with a mischievous glint in his eyes and takes your hand in his.

“Would you do me the honor of a dance my lady?”

He whisks you away to the dancefloor, without awaiting your response to the surprise of everyone around you.

“So, Lady Kamo is it?” He smiles at you, as he holds you close to him with a steady hand on your back, as if to prevent you from fleeing again.

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“I’m glad that we finally get the chance to meet. Properly.”

“I suppose there is no avoiding it now.” You sigh.

“You are a strange one. Young ladies usually turn to putty in my hands.”

“Maybe I would, Your Grace, had I not discovered your recent activities.”

“Careful girl. I enjoy our banter in the garden, but my patience has its limit.” He is now staring at you intensely. You can’t help but look away, unable to meet his eyes.

“Apologies, Your Grace.”

There is a lull as you both dance, dazzling the ball’s attendant with a beautifully performed waltz. You can tell that the Duke is at a loss on what to say, now that you know his secret. His charms, you think, are superficial. They are merely a facade to cover up his deficient manners, and he is also protected by his title and rank in society.

Up close, he is quite handsome to be sure. But is that truly all there is to it? A pleasant face and a title. Is that all that matters in a suitor?

“Beautiful necklace. The ruby is the symbol of your house, is it not?”

“Your Grace is very knowledgeable.”

“Cut the formality. Don’t make this boring.” He hisses. “I owe you a great debt for not ratting me out to my mother. I’m just trying to make a normal conversation.”

“Well, you started it. Commenting on my necklace is a step away from talking about the weather.”

“You are something else.” He chuckles, as he guides you expertly through the end of the waltz.

“This season might not be so boring after all.”

══════════════════

Thank you for reading!

A/N: Omg…Gojo is going to be hard for me to write. Also, poor Ijichi is just trying his best.

See you in the next one! ♡

.

Tag: @sonotpattismith

[honey-crypt]

a/n: wrote this during whiteboard night with the elliott squad @fuerrziah @sonicsbigmassivepersonality @pxtofawn @razberry-cookie cuz i can’t do digital art (yet) soooo… enjoy!

word count: 1k

warnings: nsfw (minors dni), public sex, messy sex, drunk sex, mentions of cheating, unhealthy coping mechanisms (farmer uses drinking to cope with their breakup), elliott and the farmer ruin gus’s storage room, “oh! that escalated quickly!”

summary: you got your heart broken by your dumb ex-boyfriend and need relief. good thing elliott’s here to help you out!

★ frunk duck [drunk fuck] - elliott x farmer ★

You couldn't help it, though; you had just been dumped by your boyfriend Alex and you had to drink your sorrows away. Of course, the only place to do so in a small, buttfuck town like Pelican Town (other than enjoying a beer at home) was going to the Stardrop Saloon. Just a few drinks, you said, just a few drinks was all you needed to get that asshole off your mind.

Then you saw him, Elliott, sitting alone at the bar and nursing a pint in his hand. You approached the writer and took the bar stool next to him, “Hey,” you gave him a short greeting before waving Gus down and ordering your own beer. The redhead eyed you and offered a smile, “Hello. What brings you here at such a late hour, my friend?”

“Alex,” you grumbled. Gus set the beer in front of you and in a flash, you downed it and let out a low burp. Elliott raised his eyebrows at the scene, “Oh, dear. What did he do this time?”

“Fucked a random chick from ZuZu City when we were supposed to go out on our date,” you let out a stale laugh. You then beckoned Gus down and requested him to pour some shots. Despite the concerned look in his eyes, the bartender honored your request and placed five or so shot glasses down on the table, “Pick your poison.”

“Vodka,” you answered. Gus grabbed a bottle of chilled vodka from the rack and poured it into each shot glass, “Enjoy, let me know if you need anything, okay?” The saloon owner left to attend to other patrons. It was a surprisingly slow night for the saloon, only seven patrons beside you and Elliott inside.

“Wanna join me?” you held out a shot of vodka to Elliott. He stared at the shot and gently set his beer down on the wooden table, “I would be happy to. What shall we toast to?”

You raised your shot, “To not letting assholes walk all over us.”

Elliott raised his shot after you, “Cheers to that,” you clinked the other’s glass with your own and took the shot in one swift motion, the burn of the vodka and its chilly temperature coating your throat. Soon, one shot turned into two, then three, then so on until you could barely remember why you were drinking in the first place. You swung your bodyweight to the side and faced Elliott, his face red and eyes hazy from the alcohol.

“Ellieeeeee,” you leaned into the writer and muttered in his ear, “I have an idea…”

“Y- Yeah?” he hiccuped. You nodded, more so headbutting the poor fella, and giggled, “You- You should fuck me,” the redhead’s eyes widened at the proposition but smiled nonetheless, “Okay!” Elliott grabbed you by the hand and pulled you off the bar stool, walking you towards the backroom of the saloon.

Now, here you were, getting your guts stirred up like fresh spaghetti by Elliott’s thick, juicy cock. It was a prettier cock than Alex’s, longer and thicker, utterly delicious to suck on. The way he mewled and stifled back moans when you blew his dick was simply a sight to behold. He tasted sweet, from his lips to his weeping cock.

He then lubed your hole up with spit and a leftover lube packet he had in his coat. You didn’t ask where or why he had a travel size packet of lube in his coat, you were too busy getting yourself fucked dumb by a handsome, freckled man with an unnatural toned body for his lifestyle.

It was a treat to see such a gentleman give into his primal desires, his need to fuck and to breed any pretty holes he bore witness to. His cock was like a spear, stabbing you with a pleasurable pain. Your eyes lit up when Elliott made contact with your sweet spot, “There! There, right there!” you moaned to him. Like the obedient puppy he was, Elliott followed your direction and continued to abuse that one spot of yours, his cock pistoning in and out of your hole over and over and over and-

You clenched down on Elliott’s dick and held back a cry, as you climaxed. Elliott held onto you and covered your mouth while you rode out your orgasm, sober enough to know that any loud noise from the backroom would arouse suspicion.

You went limp in Elliott’s arm, too dumb to move or make a sound. Elliott took the chance to resume his motions, using you as a human fleshlight to chase his own climax. He quickly followed in suit, biting down on your shoulder to muffle his whimpering moans while he shot ropes of cum deep inside you.

Elliott and you remained still for a few minutes until the redhead’s cock went soft and he was able to pull himself out of you. Some cum spilled from your hole and joined the collection of fluids on the floor. Elliott hastily wiped the liquids away with his handkerchief and pocketed it back into his coat. He snapped his fingers in your face, trying to see if you were mentally there enough to get up and get dressed, but he only got soft babbles in return.

“Elliott, (Y/N)?” the two of you turned to face the owner of the voice. Gus stood in the doorway with his arms crossed in annoyance and disappointment, “Please tell me you got… no fluids on my produce,” the bartender entered the backroom and made a beeline for some of the boxes. Once Gus confirmed that the produce was fine, he stated, “You two are banned from the saloon for the next month.”

“Yeah, that’s fair,” answered Elliott. He redressed you and threw your drunk, fucked dumb ass onto his back, “Bye, Gus.”

“Bye, Elliott. Bye, (Y/N),” the bartender bid you both farewell, as Elliott carried you out of the Stardrop Saloon. Guess you have to drink at home for the next month!

[queenlua]

HELLO. Perhaps you already read the first 9 chapters of this fic, when I posted them a few months ago? If so: yeah, sorry for that cliffhanger, we're back now babey, and this update features:

🪶 Reyson and Sanaki getting up to some deranged nonsense, 🪶 Naesala having a bad time (natch), 🪶 Leanne gets to DO STUFF (it rules), 🪶 and generally there's more politics, more scheming, more unhealthy coping mechanisms, etc

And if you're new to this fic: HELLO, WOULD YOU LIKE TO READ MY THESIS STATEMENT ON "WHY THE UNIFICATION OF THE BIRD TRIBES WOULD GO VERY BADLY AFTER THE END OF RADIANT DAWN"??? If so, please click away & enjoy. There's some unhealthy Reyson/Tibarn, there's some toxic Reyson/Naesala, there's a bunch of woo-mystic-Serenes-worldbuilding, it's all VERY fun I promise...!

...also, even if you don't care about any of that, you should peep chapter 15 & chapter 16 because @gloamvonhrym did some incredible art for those chapters & i cried & you should Behold Them...!

[ao3feed-jonmartin]

til then ill dream of the day my odds and ends fit

read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/kOfCu15 by martinimartini “Don’t worry about that.” “I mean—“ Martin laughed sheepishly, “I-It’s still not good to do it for cis men either.” Jon stopped mid-chew for that. “Sorry?” “Well, it can get kinda serious. I-It can cause, like, hair loss, and emotional imbalances and—“ “Do you think I’m cis?”   An examination of Jonathan Sims throughout his life, through the lens of transgenderism. 5 + 1 format. Words: 1849, Chapters: 1/6, Language: English Fandoms: The Magnus Archives (Podcast) Rating: Mature Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Categories: M/M, F/M, Multi Characters: Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist's Grandmother, Georgie Barker, Sasha James, Tim Stoker (The Magnus Archives), The Admiral (The Magnus Archives), Melanie King, Martin Blackwood, Basira Hussain, Alice "Daisy" Tonner Relationships: Martin Blackwood/Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Georgie Barker/Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist Additional Tags: Trans Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, intersex jonathan sims, this is the entire point, Nonbinary Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, He/Him and She/Her and They/Them Pronouns for Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, transfem jonathan sims, this is also the entire point, Childhood, Childhood Trauma, Bullying, Transphobia, Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist Has ADHD, Gender Dysphoria, Ableism, Internalized Transphobia, Implied/Referenced Self-Harm, cringe texting from the 2000s, Alcohol, Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms, Canon-Typical The Beholding Content (The Magnus Archives), Canon-Typical The Flesh Content (The Magnus Archives), SORRY I LOVE THE FLESH SO BAD, Canon-Typical The Lonely Content (The Magnus Archives), 5+1 Things, Gender Identity, Gender Issues, Gender Confusion, gender euphoria, after a while!, Non-Sexual Intimacy, Nudity, Set in Episodes 159-160 | Scottish Safehouse Period (The Magnus Archives), Location: Somewhere Else (The Magnus Archives), Trans Georgie Barker read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/kOfCu15

[haveihitanerve]

okay so i have taken many a 'what batkid are you' quizzes and honestly the end explanation just doesnt really vibe with me and iits never articulate enough, so i decided to make a list of the batkids and their personalities (all decided by me) so if you want to take a quiz and then see if my description fits you better youre welcome to, or if you just want to see which batkid describes you best feel free too

Dick- you have a lot of deep seated trauma but you’re working through it. You tend to cover it with a smile and a laugh and are usually the older sister of the group, prioritizing other people over yourself. Your anger runs deep and you don't have a short fuse but when you do finally snap it is a sight to behold. You have one person in your life who is always there for you to fall back on and lets you release your anger on them. You make them a better person and they do the same for you. You trust easily and are fiercely loyal. Just remember its okay to be loyal to yourself too. 

Babs- you are the mom friend in the group. Mad analytical, probably a whiz with technology, but you have good emotional skills too. You’re always focused on helping others out and are there for them when they need a good rant and some warm tea. You are a killer listener. You have some trauma, but instead of being overcome by it you embraced it and let it be a part of you for all to see. You worked through it and are stronger for it. Your net of people you love and trust goes far and deep, and everywhere you go you know at least someone. Thats not to say your trust is given freely, it is just more bendable. You take care of everyone but remember its okay to take care of yourself first.

Jason- your anger runs deep, but you are trying to improve. You find it hard to trust people because your trust was once shattered by someone who was supposed to always be there for you. You have a quick temper and short fuse but once your anger is out its usually over. (until of course your next temper explosion) You have a few good people in your life who you rely on and they help with the anger. Despite what people might think you are also a caretaker at heart and will help someone in need, regardless of your anger towards them. You have some issues but its okay, everyone does. Just remember its okay to let people in sometimes.

Cass- you are a badass. A little quiet, you are the observer. You notice the things others look over, like people. But don't mistake the quietness for lack of words to say. You are fiercely vocal when you wish to be, especially when it comes to defending those who cannot defend themselves or your friends. You have a knack for reading peoples emotions and know just what to say when your friend is feeling upset. The people in your life that you love and that love you sometimes have a hard time seeing that they are worthy of love, but you are there to remind them. Just remember to show yourself a little love too, and its not wrong to be quiet, so long as you are not silenced. 

Tim- you are a mad man. Probably super smart but you live off of just spite for the world and caffeine. The people in your life that you trust are all extroverts and you are actually the introvert most of the time, but unlike normal situations you actually adopted them. You would tear yourself apart for the ones you love but just remember you don't always have to. They are there to work with you, not be protected by you. 

Steph- you are a child of chaos. A gremlin. You’re the sassy, witty, snarky, confident, and funny member of your group. Despite what people may think you have a very strong moral compass and love fiercely. Those few people in your circle who you trust you would defend to the death and those who harm them better watch their backs. Something happened when you were younger who shaped that moral compass today but you don't allow the ghosts of the past to haunt you anymore. They tend to flee at the first wise crack. Humor is a bit of a coping mechanism but you also have others that are more healthy. Remember its okay to cry sometimes or let your guard down, its not weak and you have people that love you who are watching your back. 

Damian- you are short. Im sorry to say it but you probably are. You have a bit of anger inside you, but you also have impressive self control and so i doesn't come out unless you need it to. You are aggressively loyal to those who have earned your trust and respect and would do anything to make them proud. You struggle a bit with seeing your own worth but those you have surrounded yourself with are always there to remind you how amazing you are. You are a very big animal lover and never shy away from a fight. You give off little sibling vibes, but you can also be incredibly wise and are sometimes like the old uncle. (sorry that was a weird comparison but it just feels right) You need to remember that you worth is not in correlation with your accomplishments.

[rebuilding-paradise]

@pure-vanilla-lilies , behold, my new coping mechanism to distract myself from the current political situations. They're just a little guy. A little baby skele-sprite.

[theanxiousghostartist]

TMAG 18 SPOILERS

Pre Case:

Lena's disscussion with Sam sparked my interest, while I was reading the transcript.

Her use of "Consider" is capitalized. I wonder if this means it is similar to Elias's "Behold" or the Eye's "Know," the Web's "Compell." The way she said it, it kinda felt like the way John asked questions after he became an Avatar of the Eye. "If you like" was added as an afterthought of sorts, perhaps to make sure it wasn't finialzed for Sam. In other words, it was up to him. John asked questions like this in TMA, either trying to mame them vauge or by telling people afterwords that they didn't have to answer.

Furthermore, Lena and Sam talking about Celia and Jack got interesting. It seems like Lena knew that Celia had a child, with the "childcare emergency." She also said this with pity. She also called Jack "it." I wonder if there is something more to Jack, and if Lena knows that. Maybe Jack is a child of an "external" or some entity?

Case:

When the victim was giving her "after death statement," she explicitly mentioned spiders, rot, and "most importantly, too many rooms." This makes the house on Church Streeet feel similar too Hilltop Road and the Distortion's relm. From what she had described about what her mother said, it seems like her mother predicted her death.

Then she goes onto mention "clouds of loneliness" and rot yet again. This meams we now have references to: the Web, the Corruption, the Spiral, and the Lonley throughout this statement so far.

The victim mentioned that someone had brought her to the house. I wonder if this was a Distortion that brought her there or maybe an Avatar that is Distortion adjacent? Perhaps this will be a future external we'll meet! Overall, it seems like she was a victim of the Lonely and Distortion, with a little bit of Corruption.

Post Case:

I found this discussion between Sam and Alice interesting. Sam's coping mechanism seems to be to know all he can about whatever is bothering him. Furthers my theory that he is Eye-aligned and may be a future Eye Avatar.

On the other hand, Alice's coping mechanism seems to be to bottle it up and leave it behind.

It's really interesting to see their personalities clash.

Alice says that she sees that curiosity gets you killed during the time she has worked at the OIAR. I wonder if that aligns with the person she watched die. I'm wondering if that's also why Lena has a previously unspoken rule about "no externals in the office."

Georgie's in TMAGP with a speaking role!!

She and Celia seem to be friends, and pretty close, since she asks Georgie watch him. But I don't like the implication of "taking Georgie's face." I hope it's not foreshadowing.