#but I don't know if i should tag it... because it doesn't look too connected yet?

[project-sekai-facts]

Is there like a lore summary for WD? How does this set connect?

i have these two posts explaining some of the worldbuilding in the knights cards. i'm also gonna tag all these posts as #white day au

edit: this was heavily edited in march 2025 due to the release of a blog post talking about the 2025 set. this blog post confirms that all the white day sets take place in the same continuity. i will refer to this blog multiple times in this post.

a few other notes not in any of those linked posts:

tsukasa's costume is called chivalrous chevalier. chevalier is the french word for knight. based on his card art having him bowing before (presumably) the throne, he's probably very high ranking.

akito's costume is noble paladin. a paladin or palatine is used to refer to a high-ranking heroic knight or a palace official. or the dnd class but that's probably not what's going on here. stems from the 12 paladins in charlemagne's court in medieval romance. definitely some sort of leader

mizuki's costume is called optatio eques. eques if it wasn't obvious is to do with horses, and is latin for horseman or knight (also the latin name for the knight chesspiece). so she's a horseback knight. i mean the others should be as well but they felt the need to specify it here.

len's 2* is called noble squire. squires were lower ranking and were servants to the actual knights, taking care of their armour/gear/horses and accompanying them in battle. sometimes would become an actual knight in future. fun fact, boys usually got the squire role at age 14, which is len's age. also len is probably tsukasa's squire considering he's wxs len here.

we don't know what shiho's class is.

all of them have different colored gem brooches on their collars, possibly related to some sort of class/rank system. aktio has a red gem, mizuki has an emerald green one, and shiho has a yellow-green one like her image color. tsukasa does not have a visible one (presumably under his cape) and len doesn't have one (not a knight).

notably all have a rose as part of their uniform, and also on the flags in akito and mizuki's cards. this will be relevant later. tsukasa's is red with gold accents, akito's is gold, mizuki's is blue, shiho's is the same color as her gem with gold leaves, and len's is also gold but less detailed (again, not a knight). mizuki's is the only one that doesn't appear to be metal. this might also relate to the class/rank system.

toya's costume is called shadow knight. he's a knight. done easy.

rui's costume is called mad sorcerer. again. sorcerer. simple.

kaito's is called wandering gunner. because sure. gun. don't think about it too hard guns are old. not the one in the card mind you. wandering also gives a bit of insight to the role he might play.

miku and saki's cards don't have costumes or names that indicate what they are.

miku is aligned with the imperial soldiers but seems to be a thief. she's got a dagger and is chilling in a trashed building, looking at a market. she possibly or very likely stole her apple from said market.

saki has a spear, so we know she's some sort of warrior/knight. she also is with the imperial soldiers, based on costume design (she has no visible emblem). that said her costume has a lot more brown than any of the others, most notably her shoes and jacket don't match with toya/kaito/miku. no leather either. imo this could possibly point to 1. her being a lower ranking member 2. her having recently joined, or defected and keeping parts from her old outfit, like rui or 3. she styled it how she wanted

as mentioned in one of the linked posts, rui defected. his outfit is based on the knight of white outfits and has their emblem on it still. he also has a red gem on his collar, so he was probably at the same rank as akito (or part of his team, however you interpret those brooches). all the imperial soldiers have red gems somewhere as an accessory, but the design and placement is very specific.

toya has a rose brooch and this is why i told you to remember that. it's completely gold like akito's (the design is slightly different as has no leaves but theyre modeled differently so i'll let it slide), suggesting there was a connection there and maybe toya defected like rui did.

toya also has a dragon and is the only imperial soldier seen with one. this could point to him being the founder and/or leader since their emblem is a dragon.

again suggesting past connection between akito and toya, the dragon is referred to as toya's aibou by the artist's. akito got replaced.

while not confirmed, it's possible that the other members of mmj are part of minori & airi's faction. the windows in minori's card have a three leafed clover as part of the design.

minori and airi are probably part of different ranks given the differences in costume design.

kanade's costume is called fleeting light knight attire and mafuyu's is called abyss knight attire. now this is interesting bc this implies a light side/dark side thing, but as mentioned in one of the linked posts, they are very clearly a part of the same faction, sharing some costume design elements, as well as a four-point star emblem, red gem on their collar, and red gem accessories. this is where things get interesting.

hear me out. so kanade's costume has a similar color palette to the original knights of white set and has the heart design from tsukasa/mizuki's costumes. mafuyu's costume is a darkened version of that color palette (think back to rui's costume being a darkened knights of white one) and also incorporates some leather-looking items, like her cape.

given the set being called "what awaits after the battle" my assumption is that this set, or at least kanade and mafuyu's cards, are set before the wday 1&2 sets, at the start of the war. ik a lot of people assume it's afterwards but the phrasing works for beforehand if put in the context of thinking about the future after the newly started war. and also for the following reasons:

kanade's card depicts a far more peaceful scenario than seen in past white day cards, there's no indication of any battles or wars in her card. while in mafuyu's there very much is, if we look at minori's or ichika's they strike more of a balance between light and dark, and both have very solemn looks. Ichika obviously looks like she's preparing for battle, but you could interpret Minori's to be this as well. This could suggest the war has just begun. So the cards take place in order of Kanade->Minori/Ichika->Mafuyu.

kanade and mafuyu are very clearly part of the same faction. however, kanade's costume bears resemblance to the knights of white ones, while mafuyu's bears resemblance to imperial soldiers.

mafuyu's costume follows the same rules as rui's, being a darkened version of kanade's. given design elements in rui's costume, it's very obvious the intent of him being a defector to the imperial knights side from the knights of white side. the same logic can apply to mafuyu in that case.

we can assume that over time, the light side changed their emblem from a four-pointed to eight-pointed star and adopted the rose thing. aside from that they kept virtually the same color scheme and patterns, and the jewel brooches, on their knight uniforms.

we can also assume that over time, the dark side developed further and adopted their own dress code, keeping the black leather from mafuyu's costume, and her red jewel accessories (see: toya/saki/kaito's earrings and miku's pin).

speaking of ichika, i already mentioned in the linked posts that she's from an entirely unique faction. her costume design doesn't match anyone elses, and she has a unique emblem design that looks like a heart combined with a tear drop. her costume name is illuminated courtyard knight attire which tells us nothing.

the blog post for the The Endless Battle for Peace set confirms that it takes place in the same universe as the previous sets, so what does this mean for Saki and Shiho?

So as the name itself suggests, and the blog post confirms, this set takes place an unspecified very long time after the previous ones.

The artist says to look for easter eggs in Saki's card, most likely referring to her garter being the same in both her 2023 card and this one. This is the same Saki as the 2023 card.

Saki's costume is called Saint Beast Sorcerer. So she's meant to be some sort of sorcerer, which makes sense given the Imperial Knights had at least one magic user on their side. Maybe they taught her, or she already was one.

Remember the thing about the red gems with Imperial Soldiers? Saki has a small one on her costume, though it's in the same place as Rui's and the Knights of White's ones. More evidence for her defecting from the KoW.

How she became a god/saint/whatever (the artist says she has an "unapproachable sanctity") is unknown. That you can come up with yourself

The artist describes her as lonely and isolated in the "secluded temple or tower" we see her in. Again, "unapproachable sanctity". It's possible she's trapped here, or is choosing not to leave.

The ruined weapons seen around her are also similar to the ones seen in past white day cards (though none are identical to past designs). Her hair is also said to be longer due to the passage of time, so she's been here a while.

Shiho and Rin are aligned with Saki, indicated by the same star symbol appearing in all their costumes. The blog post confirms only the one with Rin, but it's obvious if you look at Shiho's costume.

Rin is said to be running towards a "valued person" or "special someone" (original phrase is 大切な人). I believe the original is a phrase generally used for a romantic partner but I'm not too sure on that. Either way, you interpret that, we are not told who the person is. That's down to you.

Rin's costume is called Gold Sheep Soldier. So she's a soldier on the same side as Shiho and Saki.

The blog post describes Shiho as a mage here, and her rings are suggested to help with her magic or be connected to it in some way.

Is this the same Shiho as in the 2022 card? This is never specified. So you could interpret it as the same one, and a similar thing that happened to Saki happened to her, without the being trapped in a tower part, or you could interpret it as some sort of reincarnation.

Rin and Shiho are both meant to be depicted counter-attacking, possibly against Emu and MEIKO though again this isn't specified

Emu's costume is called Beastman Summoner. She's able to summon mice.

MEIKO is also depicted as a summoner, but with chinchillas

Emu and MEIKO are clearly on the same faction, as indicated by their costumes

Interestingly, there's a heart pattern on their costumes that is sort of similar to one seen on some of the Knights of White costumes, and has a similar color palette to Kanade's costume. This could possibly point to Emu and MEIKO being the current members of what was once the Knights of White, or possibly some split-off branch.

Emu's costume is described specifically as formal yet urban, so she's probably still from a wealthy family, and a part of a proper society in this AU.

uh yeah that's all. funfact did you know colopale staff likes Legend of Zelda. if that wasn't obvious by the fact that the 2025 wday set seems to take a lot of inspiration from Breath of the Wild specifically. From Saki's outfit and the concept of being trapped being like Zelda in that game, to the idea of this being set a long time after the Knights of White/Imperial Soldiers set, with all of them dead (killed in battle?), and the war still going on. It's not exactly subtle. Go crazy with that.

[respectthepetty]

Pit Babe 2 Colors - Ep. 9

I'm watching the second season of Pit Babe on mute with no subtitles and double-speed just like I did the first season Y'all know why I'm here, so let me get to it because Alan is probably sacrificing himself for someone on the team since he is falling apart in the next episode, and I'm already panicking!

First, William unnecessarily hit Barbara with that vase of pink/reddish flowers, and I just feel like William is doing the most for other reasons beyond the obvious. Why didn't he just sneak in? Why did he tease Barbie before he took Charles? Why did he go back and hit Barbie once he had Charles? Why did he want to make sure Barbie knew it was him? Because he has a death wish? So he could get caught?!

And more importantly, how did William know where Charles was?! Because if he has always known where the lab was, why not just destroy what Christopher Waymond is working on? Alan, Jeffrey, Peter, and Christopher Waymond were the only ones in the lab with him, so is Alan in his red really a mole or does someone else who can't work out his color know more than he should?!

Because I honestly feel bad for William. He is not an angel, but it doesn't seem like he wanted whatever is happening to him.

At the beginning of the season, his car was orange but as the season has unfolded, his car has become redder, but he has never shown up as fully red.

He shows up at green sometimes.

Green could be symbolic of rottenness, envy, and greed, which is a color that tends to show up in Tony's lair because, just like the horned statues in the background, he is evil and trying to create beasts out of humans.

But the green also slightly shows up around the hourglass, which could mean hope, luck, and success, like time is on their side. If Charles can take Jeffrey's powers and see the future, why not take William's power and change the present?

William is not great, but his powers could be, especially if a Blue Boy takes them.

If Charles hasn't had amnesia yet, perhaps an overload of people's power might be the cause of it, and William's could be the final push?

But the green color wasn't just on William this episode.

Kimberly was slightly green as he smoked outside while being surrounded by (Kenta's) black as he thought about Kenta. Kimberly is normally the light to Kenta's dark, so for his apartment to be this dark, Kimberly must really be missing him.

And Dean got hit with the tiniest of green lighting when he was discussing whatever he was discussing with Vegas' Hedgehog.

But Dean sacrificed himself for the greater cause; however, I already thought Dean had died once when he got shot and thrown off the bridge, so I don't think he is dead now because we are still missing this shot from the trailer, and if Whiny Winifred has been brought back to life after that fire, then so has Dean, and that is probably Alan looking at him — I HATE IT HERE! Nobody can stay dead (which also leaves the possibility that Dean could still be the ultimate mole and this was all for show).

But I also have no idea why Alan would talk to Anthony or Whiny Winifred in the first place, so is the green the connection?

Alan has been in danger all season because the red keeps showing up around him as if Anthony already has a hold on him, but the teeny tiny green is there too under Barbie.

So does the green mean sacrifice? I know from being tagged that Jeffrey didn't see Alan in his future, so . . .

Is Alan going to be another Waymond next to Jeffrey?

Is Barbie going to lose another family member?

And is Vegas' Hedgehog going to be the reason?

Southwest Airlines is clearly in love in his pink, but Vegas' Hedgehog keeps turning darker each episode, and I just can't trust him.

I shouldn't trust this motherf*cker because he has the most suspicious looks.

But he also seems annoyed by all the other things happening that distract him from just being in his lab.

And unlike Vegas' Hedgehog, Christopher Waymond is usually surrounded by blue, and stands on the side with Peter and Kimberly and neither of those men aren't bad.

Unlike Vegas' Hedgehog who seems to be the odd one out this season as he is usually isolated from the group. If he turns out to be the Best Boy, I fully apologize for the smear campaign I have written against this season, but he is being sooooo strange.

However, I was mad at my Black Brooder babygirl Kentana most of last season until he killed his shitty father.

Yet he is rescuing himself from being a hostage in the hottest way possible, so he continues to prove to me that I was wrong about him.

EXCEPT HE GOT CAUGHT AGAIN BECAUSE HE DIDN'T JUST ESCAPE ONCE HE BROKE FREE!

So from the trailer, if this isn't him getting experimented on in the next episode, I'm sure it will be eventually.

But, more importantly, for two guys that are in love and about to kiss, Southwest Airlines seems really hurt about it.

Vegas's Hedgehog, we only have four episodes left, so it's time clear your name and prove me wrong.

please

[thisapplepielife]

Written for @steddie-week.

Reach Out and Touch Someone

Day #7 - Prompt: Free Space | Word Count: 1500 | Rating: T | CW: Language, Alcohol | POV: Steve | Tags: AU, Wrong Number, Right Person Trope, Bisexual Steve Harrington, Meet-Cute

Steve dials the number messily scrawled on the scrap of paper. He’s nervous. He’s always nervous when he has to stick his neck out and make a move on a girl these days. 

Yeah, he did the first bit of legwork and got her number out at the bar last night. But he's fumbled the ball and failed enough times, Robin's loving, but accurate, "you suck" burned in his brain, that he's always leery to try again. He should be used to it by now, but it’s still uncomfortable and awkward, every goddamn time. If his friends weren't all fretting about his emotional well-being from being so terminally alone, he wouldn’t put forth half the effort anymore. 

He has Robin. He has his cat. He's happy. 

It rings three times before he hears it connect, “Hello?”

It’s a man’s voice, and he hesitates for just a moment, “I’m looking for, uh, Lyla?”

“Sorry, man. Wrong number.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, I must have misdialed,” Steve says, a different kind of embarrassment. But this is one he can handle easier, for sure. So he pushed the wrong button somewhere along the way. His eyesight isn't the best thing he's got going for him.

“No worries, man,” the other guy laughs, seemingly carefree about being bothered.

They each disconnect and then Steve reads, and re-reads, the number before dialing again. More carefully this time.

It rings only once before it’s connected.

“Still me, dude,” the familiar voice relays, still light and friendly.

“Wow. I’m so sorry. Clearly, I was given a fake number. That's embarrassing,” Steve laughs, because this is more embarrassing than misdialing. He's uncomfortable and mortified to admit that this girl just didn't want him to call her. Even if he's only admitting it to a stranger.

She should have just told him no. He hates that she didn't, for her sake, too.

“Shitty move,” the other guy answers.

“Yeah, well. I'm sorry I bothered you. Again. I promise to cross-check any future numbers against yours before dialing, just in case.”

The guy laughs, "Well, now. Don't go to any trouble for my sake. Honestly,” and he doesn't sound put-out at all, “don’t worry about it. She clearly didn’t have the balls to just, be, like, honest. That sucks.”

Steve laughs, maybe if she'd had balls this wouldn't have happened at all. Most men feel more comfortable just saying no, he thinks, which is sad but true. He swings both ways, and maybe he should take this as a sign to lean the other way for a while. See if that works out any better for him. 

It probably won't, but he could try.

“There goes my big weekend plans,” Steve teases, uncertain why he does it, even as the words tumble out of his mouth. He needs to hang up the phone and let this guy get back to his own life.

“Dude. That's a problem I can solve. I’m gigging tonight. You have to come. Let me entertain you.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“Whatever. I want to. Just show up. It’ll be a great story, will it not?”

It would be a great story. One he could even tell Robin to convince her he’s living a little, “I don’t even know your name. What if you’re a serial killer or something?”

“Yep, that’s me. Vicious killer,” the guy laughs, “I’m Eddie, man. And I’m a fucking ball to be around. You’ll want to take me up on this awesome offer. We’ll all be down at Hellfire Club around eight. Show up. If you think we’re murderous, you don’t have to follow us to any secondary, secluded locations.”

Hellfire Club is literally two blocks from Steve’s apartment. He's been past it countless times, but never inside. It's always dark. Like it's not even open, making him unsure about what kind of bar it is, it's so nondescript from the outside. Not to mention the name is a little intimidating. He'd half-convinced himself it's a BDSM club. 

But, now that he's been invited, he could just walk down and see what’s the what, “How will I know which guy you are?”

Eddie laughs, “You’ll know. Trust me.”

Steve has a hard time trusting anyone new these days, but Eddie seems friendly enough. 

Steve realizes he must have been quiet for too long, because Eddie starts talking again.

“I’ll have on a badass battle vest. Look for that. You'll see me. It's impossible not to. I promise.”

“Okay,” Steve agrees, even if he’s not sure what a battle vest even is.

“Now, are you going to tell me your name, or will that just be a surprise?” Eddie asks.

Steve laughs, “Steve. I’m Steve.”

“Well, I’ll see you later, Steve.”

Steve stands in front of his closet for far too long, trying to find something to wear that doesn’t look too nerdy. He assumes Eddie's cool. He sounded cool, and Steve may have been cool in high school, but these days he just keeps his head down and goes through life, content to be fairly unnoticed. He finally settles on a black t-shirt. Basic, classic. Timeless.

Boring. 

But that's a risk he's willing to take.

He walks down the street slowly and arrives around eight-thirty. The windows are still all blacked out, tinted to the point he can't see anything inside. There's just the neon sign with the Hellfire Club over the door.

When he pulls open the door, he's in a hallway that's painted all black, with a bouncer at the end, stationed at a door. Steve kind of wants to turn around, flee, but he doesn't. He's already here. He might as well at least see. Robin will kill him if he chickens out.

He gives his ID to the bouncer, and is directed down a staircase. He really hopes this isn't a sex club. 

It's not.

And as soon as he crosses the threshold into the bar, yes, he knows Eddie instantly. He’s gotta be the one on the bar, pouring shots directly into various mouths. Steve knows he could turn around right now and this adventure could end. But watching Eddie laughing and prancing up and down the bar with flourish, clearly having fun, makes Steve want to go up and meet this guy.

Steve takes an open seat at the end of the bar, kind of out of the way, and just watches Eddie work the crowd.

The bar is blaring It's Raining Men and Eddie is playing up the song, big time. He's not a stripper, at least Steve doesn't think he is, but he's working the crowd for tips, absolutely. He keeps handing them down to a curly-headed guy, who keeps stuffing them into an overflowing jar.

Steve's pretty sure this is a gay club, or at least queer friendly. Maybe he has found a place for himself, something that's been right here under his nose, all this time.

When Eddie finally jumps down off the bar, Steve watches him work the rest of the room.

The other guy comes over and takes Steve's order, and he doesn't quite have the same flourish, but he's efficient and confident with a bottle and jigger.

"Name for the tab?" he asks, shaking the drink Steve had picked from the list.

"Steve," Steve says, and the guy looks up and meets his eyes.

Surely not. This doesn't feel like this is Eddie. He is wearing a vest, a red plaid one, but the other guy also has a denim vest on, full of patches.

"Eddie?" Steve questions, needing to make sure.

"Gareth," the guy says, "that's Eddie," he clarifies, pointing at the one Steve had correctly clocked as Eddie to begin with. "You're his wrong number guy, right?"

Steve nods. He supposes that's what he is, "Yeah. That's me. Loser in love."

Gareth laughs, and it makes Steve smile.

"That's our specialty here, you'll feel right at home," Gareth teases.

"Glad to hear it."

"I'll tell him you're here," Gareth assures, "he wasn't sure you'd come."

"That makes two of us," Steve admits, and Gareth smiles as he finishes shaking Steve's drink, putting it down in front of him.

"On the house. First-timers to Hellfire drink free," Gareth says, and then he's walking away. 

Steve's eyes follow Gareth across the bar, watching as he taps Eddie on the shoulder, leaning close to his ear, pointing right at Steve.

Eddie looks, meets his eyes, and Steve raises his hand, giving him a small, little wiggle of his fingers.

A huge smile spreads across Eddie's face as he bounds in Steve's direction.

Eddie's quickly right in his personal space, squeezing both of Steve's shoulders, greeting him with a smile, "Welcome to Hellfire."

Steve smiles, liking the feeling of Eddie's hands bleeding through his t-shirt, warming him.

Eddie lets go, and Steve misses the feeling already, but Eddie stays. Sliding onto the stool next to Steve, "I'm glad you came."

And Steve's completely honest as he answers, "Me too."

If you want to write your own, or see more entries for this challenge, pop on over to @steddie-week and follow along with the fun!

Notes: If you're too young to remember it, reach out and touch someone was the slogan/jingle for Bell System telephone company back in the day. So, that's where the title comes from, as a play on the wrong number phone call trope.

[galacticncrazy]

Loid Forger and Weakness (Analysis)

I was watching gameplay footage of What Remains of Edith Finch and towards the ending I thought about the idea of memories, and one thing led to another and I thought of Spy x Family, specifically Loid. It made me wonder if he ever did confront his past and what exactly weakness means to him.

(These thoughts may not be organized since it happened so late at night but bear with me.)

Initial Thoughts

I always thought about being taught that the idea of, "you have to be strong" which often goes hand in hand with this idea of "you can't show emotions". I feel like Loid constantly tells himself he can't be weak, buy what does that mean if his idea of being strong is to not show any emotion?

Memories

I don't believe it being so long ago is the reason he doesn't remember his parents faces, I want to believe he purposefully forgot what they looked like, and this probably applies to his actual name too. His home was destroyed, any and all photos of his family were lost in the debris, he burned his identification papers so there's also no record of him ever having existed. He said it himself that there is no one left who knows his name.

I should also mention how he remembers the faces of his friends and croquette lady. Loid remembering his friends faces are a given since he believed they had died during the first bombing but he later reunited with them when he was a teenager, only to lose them during a botched military operation, leaving nothing behind but dog tags.

While it may be random to include the croquette lady I feel that remembering her face is still significant given that she was the last person he spoke to before the bombs dropped, as well as being the first casualty he saw.

Memories (continued)

It may not mean anything but find it interesting that his name is hidden like this, maybe I'm thinking it about it too much but it's almost as if it were blocked out, much like how classified files have certain sentences edited out because of their sensitive nature. If he had forgotten his name it liked would've been blurred but instead it's redacted, this paired with not remembering his parents faces, it's almost as if he made himself forget, but why?

Weakness

I think his parents faces specifically his mother and his actual name are all that connects him to who was before, he likely still remembered up until he joined WISE where he was possibly taught to let go of the past, not because they didn't care about what happened to him but because it likely would've had an impact on his work, and he passed on that same mentality to Fiona, about spies not showing emotion, to stay alert and not be ignorant, because to him those two things are what make someone weak.

I find it interesting to believe that Twilight wasn't always this way but rather he adapted his own experiences and the mindset he was taught into him and realized that his emotions and overall ignorance is what led him to participate in a war, without even knowing why. The reason he did so was because of those weaknesses and that he needed to discard them. So it's no surprise that during his fight with Wheeler, but mostly Yuri, that he came to terms with the fact he's getting weak, because instead of doing what he would normally do if it was anyone else, he instead chose to spare him. If he was the Twilight that he was prior to Strix then he absolutely would've killed Yuri because he wouldn't have any reason not to, but he does, and in doing so that decision to spare him almost cost him his life.

"You're getting weak"

It all comes to a head when he recalls the event, he acknowledges that Wheeler is for lack of a better word, perfect. Someone that he himself used to be but somewhere along the away something changed. Twilight acknowledged that he was getting weak and the source of that weakness, was his small but still very present feelings for Yor, if those feelings weren't there and if Yor was just another person to use for the sake of the mission, then he wouldn't have spared Yuri but he did, for her sake.

While he may have been thinking about doubting himself while thinking about the encounter with Yuri I believe the panel still holds some weight, Loid knows he's starting to slip up and this time was too close of a call, he knows he's experiencing.

It may have happened long ago but it still relevant to how Loid is as a character thus far, that being Fiona's observation that his smile had a shred of genuineness to it when she visited, that bit of emotion being a result of spending time with his family, and learning to form connections again so it's only a matter of time before he actually expresses his own emotions directly in some capacity.

Closing Thoughts

This entire post came as a result of What Remains of Edith Finch, which I highly recommend people play as it has a nice mystery element to it as well as its overall themes of death and memories and being presented in such a unique way. The concept of keeping your emotions hidden and locked away is something I relate to which is all the more reason as to why I'd like to see Loid be more open about the way he feels or genuinely breaks down and lets all those bottled up emotions out, allowing himself to fall apart be vulnerable around people, specifically his family. There's this really nice artwork I saw once of Yor and Anya hugging a child Loid, and I always thought that externally Loid is a grown man but internally he's a child wanting someone to lift him up and tell him, "it's going to be okay".

[gurugirl]

Please tell a little about what BFD!Harry and yn are up to🙏

best friend's dad!harry x you

bfd!harry masterlist

a/n: quick little blurb! this is to connect with what i've got coming in the next update!

453 words

. . .

Well, lately you've been contemplating on reaching out to Fae because you want her at your baby shower. This baby will be her half sibling and you want Fae in your life. She doesn't even need to buy you anything! You just miss your best friend. The closer you get to your due date the more you think about her and how close you two had been before you slept with her dad. Before you started lying to everyone. To her.

So when you log into Instagram and realize she's unblocked you (when did that happen?) you feel like this is your chance. You send a simple hi and wait.

You tell Harry about it later when he comes home from work and he's massaging your feet and legs on the couch.

"Oh really?" He says. You can tell he's thinking about that and probably wonders if she's unblocked him from texting her. He'd love to be able to talk to his daughter again.

When you're brushing your teeth and getting ready for bed later that night you look at your phone when you get a notification from Instagram and it says: Fae Styles reacted 👋 to your message.

It's not much but it makes you drop your toothbrush into the sink and open up the message immediately to make sure you weren't seeing things.

"What is it?" Harry's hands on your hips as he looks over your shoulder and peers down at your screen. He sees what you're seeing and it's silent for a few beats.

You can't help yourself when you begin to type i miss you.

Harry pulls your back into his chest and puts his big palms on your pregnant tummy as you both watch the screen on your phone together. He's just as surprised as you are but this is good. This must be a good sign.

But she doesn't respond. Not right away. Harry talks you into putting your phone on the charger and giving it a rest for the night after you've stared at your screen for who-knows-how-long. You know she's seen the message and she still hasn't blocked you so that should be enough for now, Harry tells you. One step at a time.

Harry helps you tuck into bed, stuffing soft pillows behind your back to keep you slightly elevated to help with your indigestion and sore back.

"Try and get some sleep, Y/n. Okay?" He kisses your temple and brushes his hand over your tummy and you nod at him, closing your eyes.

What you don't know yet, as you've finally allowed sleep to take over, is that you'll wake up with a message from Fae in the morning.

i miss you too

tags: @yousunshineyoutempter @tenaciousperfectionunknown @swiftmendeshoran  @tiaamberxx @lukesaprince

@closureesny @angelbabyyy99 @damnasstyles @malwtilda @love-letters-to-uranus

@itjustkindahappenedreally @ssaama @onlyangellucifer @harryistheonlyoneforme @butdaddyilovehim-hs

@lc-fics @mema10 @hannahdressedasabanana @babegoalsreads @harrrrystylesslut

@elidoho @gotdrxnkonu @cathy-1997 @imgonnadreamaboutthewayyoutaaaa @certainlysyko

@tiredinwinter @princessaxoxo @angeldavis777 @lillefroe @monicaalexandraaa

@hsonlyangelxo @brittanyzelazno @lemoncrushh @golfrry @caynonmoondreams

@danaehldy @mellamolayla @ladscarlett @babyurthendofjune @heartateasee

@littlenatilda @virgopr1ncess @finelinepie @michellekstyles @harrysredroom

@harrydeary @mrs-anna-styles211994 @devilsqueen722 @bananabk9756 @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite

@zayndrivesmeinvain @i83andrew @shamelessfangirl-3 @onceagainace @stoneyggirl2

@fairytale07 @littlenatilda @stylesfever @whoreonmondays @harryspirate

@lovrave @missstyles4 @cherryluvhobi @ladscarlett @hisparentsgallerryy

@chesthairrry @oscarissacsslut @armystay89

[streetkid-named-desire]

Chapter 1: The Streetkid

2/14/2077 Dear Diary, I turned 25 today. Quarter of my life and I've done fuck all with it. But guess how I celebrated? I got jumped by some Valentinos in the alley outside the Coyote. Don't ask why, you already know the answer. I fucked one of their girlfriends.

After a shot of tequila from Pepe I set my own nose. I swear I break my nose at least once a year and you'd think it would hurt less by now.

So Pepe apparently borrowed some money from Kurt and hasn't been able to pay it back so now I gotta talk to Kurt. I swear to Hashem if I get arrested because of that motherfucker again…

I did get to see Padre, though. I don't visit the guy that took me in as often as I should. But, I know he doesn't mind, got no expectations of me. I think…I think I kind of always knew or felt like he was a surrogate dad to me ever since he sat with me after my Bar Mitzvah. He was like that for a lot of the orphans.

2/16/2025

Dear Diary,

Bad news: I got arrested.

Good news: Jackie did too.

Met him after my parents died and I started hanging around Padre's, he was cool but we didn't really run in the same circles. He was on track to be a Valentino and I was just a skiddie nerd making money for food by sucking dick in the alley.

Apparently, we were working the same gig. Imagine that! Kurt fucking me over. Jackie pulled a gun on me but by the time he recognized me the pigs were already there. We were put in the same holding cell and just talked the whole time about anything and everything. Just instant connection. I talked about netrunning and he asked me why I was getting my hands dirty if I could do shit from the comfort of my own home.

Nah, sitting in a chair was never for me. Besides, I like testing my limits and nothing beats the thrill of trying to shoot accurately while looking at a screen.

That's a joke. But, I do love fighting. It's fun, y'know? The pain reminds me I'm still alive. Anyway, he's got a couple gigs coming up and wanted me to tag along and see if we can't work some magic together because he wasn't sure about this other 'runner he'd been paired up with a couple times.

I asked who it was and my eyes nearly popped outta the socket when he said it was the T-Bug. I've been following her work for ages. She's usually the first one posting schematics for new security hardware and firmware exploits for them.

He's really obsessed with the idea of being a legend, getting into the Afterlife and shit. I dunno what I wanna do with my life, man. But, I got plenty of time to figure it out.

----------

5/10/2077

Dear Diary,

Fucked up gig today. Hired to rescue some corpo from scavs. Fucking vermin, bodies in a bathtub full of ice, keeping 'em just barely alive until it's time to scrape the cyberware outta ya. We got there just in time. Dropped all the scavs quiet, too. Quite a feat considering Jackie ain't the sneaking type.

Oh yeah, and guess who's working with T-Bug now? Took every ounce of willpower not to fuckin' squeal like a fangirl when she came up on the holo the first time.

[kefiteria]

Moonlight Echoes

character: scaramouche x reader

tags: fluff, established relationship, stargazing

summary: stargazing with scara + heart to heart conversation🩵 + reassuring scara

Scaramouche let out an exaggerated sigh, his snark practically dripping from every word. “Don't move too much now, or you'll fall, and trust me, I won't catch you if you did fall.” he remarked, his tone laced with sarcasm as he balanced precariously on the branch with you.

Rolling your eyes at his typical attitude, you couldn't help but marvel at the view. The rainforest stretched out beneath you, a vast expanse of greenery illuminated by the moonlight. “It's so tall, and I can see the whole rainforest here! WOAH LOOK, THE MOON IS SO BIG TOO, reminds me of a rice cracker!” you exclaimed, excitement evident in your voice as you pointed out the celestial sights.

Scaramouche sighed again and wrapped his arms around your waist, out of affection. “What a hassle. Such noise would attract many hidden preying eyes.” he grumbled, his snark cutting through the night air like a sharpened dagger.

“Like monkeys?” you teased, earning an exasperated eye roll from Scaramouche.

“Yes, monkeys. Just like you.” he retorted, his snide remark punctuated by a heavy sigh.

But your enthusiasm was undeterred as you pointed out the constellation Orion. “Look at Orion, isn't it incredible? It's like a celestial warrior, standing proud at the night sky. Maybe the monkeys will not be here because of Orion protecting us both!” you exclaimed, hopeful despite Scars's cynicism.

“I hate to break it to you, but Orion doesn't exactly have a good reputation in Greek mythology. So, don't even bother looking up at that constellation.” Scaramouche interjected, his snark evident in every syllable.

Undeterred, you suggested creating your own constellation. “Perhaps we should just connect the stars and make our own constellations then?” you proposed, pointing to the sky with enthusiasm.

“And what would it be?” Scaramouche asked, raising an eyebrow in mild interest.

“Probably chicken mushroom skewers or Mondstadt Grilled Fish shaped?” you grinned mischievously, earning another eye roll from your partner.

“I should've expected that coming from that brain of yours.” Scaramouche muttered, his snark reaching new heights.

You turned the question back on him with a curious look. “What about you? If you could make a new constellation, what would it be?”

After a moment of contemplation, Scaramouche replied, “Probably the tiniest star. I'll pick it and make it as the sole constellation.”

Confused by his choice, you pressed for more explanation. “Huh? I don't get it. How can one single star be a constellation?”

Scaramouche sighed, realizing he couldn't escape your relentless curiosity. “Constellations are patterns of stars that are named and recognized as distinct groupings by people. They're often based on mythological figures, animals, or objects. So, if I want it to be a constellation, then it shall be.” he explained, reluctantly delving into the topic.

“Yeah, but you still haven't explained why you chose a single tiny star to be your choice of constellation.” you pointed out, looking at him expectantly.

Knowing he couldn't avoid the question any longer, Scaramouche begrudgingly elaborated, “Everyone wants the brightest star to be their guiding star. Everyone wants to create a memorable constellation for future generations to look up to. I want something that only belongs to myself, so I'll choose a tiny star and elaborate it in my own eyes.” His words dripped with his trademark snark, leaving you with a mix of amusement and exasperation.

“And how would it be?” you asked as you tilted your head.

Scaramouche smirked, his snarky demeanor returning full force. “Oh, it would be magnificent, of course.” he replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “A constellation so small and insignificant that only the most discerning eyes could even notice it. But to those who do, it would symbolize independence, resilience, and a refusal to conform to the expectations of others.”

You couldn't help but chuckle at his dramatic description. “So, basically, it would be the epitome of your personality?” you teased, earning a playful glare from Scaramouche.

“Exactly.” he said with a smirk, his snark momentarily replaced by a hint of pride. “After all, why settle for blending in when you can stand out in your own unique way?”

You nodded, impressed by his answer. “I guess everyone sees the stars differently, similar to how everyone sees you differently.” you remarked, reflecting on the conversation.

Scaramouche grinned, his snark softened by a rare moment of genuine warmth. “Well, aren't you full of surprises?” he quipped, before quickly adding, “but don't let it go to your head.”

As you glanced up at the night sky, Scaramouche's eyes followed yours, lingering on the stars above. For a brief moment, there was a flicker of something in his expression, as if hinting that maybe, just maybe, you could be a constellation in his own private sky. But before you could dwell on the thought, his trademark smirk returned, and he brushed off the moment with a casual remark, leaving you to wonder if you had imagined it all.

Slowly, his fingers intertwined with yours, his gaze remained fixed on the celestial canvas above, as if drawing strength from the vastness of the universe. “I wanted to be your tomorrow so I lived today, the past and future.” he murmured, his voice soft yet filled with a profound sincerity that touched your heart.

“I'm happy… truly.” you replied, returning his warm smile as you too turned your gaze upward, feeling a sense of connection to something greater than yourselves.

“Ever since the first day I saw you until now, in my heart, it’s only you. Every time I look up at the night sky, it reminds me of you. Anything around me makes me want to treasure you.” Scaramouche confessed, his words carrying a weight of affection that resonated deeply within you.

Scaramouche's tender touch sent a shiver down your spine, his fingers tracing delicate patterns across your skin as he leaned in closer, his breath warms against your cheek. In that intimate moment, his words hung in the air, heavy with emotion and vulnerability.

“But such words are commonly uttered, I want to say something new too… something that you've never heard…” he whispered, his voice soft yet filled with an intensity that left you breathless.

With a gentle smile, you reached up to cup his cheek, your fingers brushing against the stubble on his jawline. “That's alright though, I love and accept any affection you want to give me in any way, shape, and form.” you reassured him, your voice barely above a whisper as you gazed into his eyes, reflecting the depth of your feelings.

“Because they’re such common words, I was worried they wouldn’t sound sincere… please… reassure me,” he choked out, his grip tightening slightly.

Feeling Scaramouche's vulnerability in the trembling of his touch, you gently caressed his cheek, your thumb soothing the tension that lingered there.

“Scaramouche,” you whispered, your voice soft yet steady, “every word you speak carries the weight of your sincerity. And currently, as you bare your heart to me, I feel the depth of your emotions echoing in every syllable.”

Leaning in closer, you pressed a tender kiss to his forehead, a gesture of reassurance and understanding. “Your love is not measured by the novelty of your words, but by the authenticity of your intentions.” you murmured, your breath mingling with his in the space between you. “And in my heart, your affection will always ring true, no matter how familiar the words may be.”

Sensing the tension ease from his frame, you wrapped your arms around him, holding him close as if to shield him from the doubts that plagued his mind. “So, let go of your worries, my dear.” you whispered, your voice a soothing melody in the silence of the night. “For in my arms, you will always find the reassurance you seek, and in my love, you will always find solace.”

Scaramouche's lips brushed against your knuckles, a tender gesture of affection, his words resonated in the quiet of the night. “You taught me how to love in this world that failed me.” he confessed, his voice carrying a depth of gratitude that touched your soul.

“Thank you, my love.” he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity and warmth. With a soft smile, he gently tucked a stray strand of hair behind your ear, his touch gentle yet profound. Beneath the shimmering moonlight and the canopy of stars, his lips pressed against your forehead in a gentle kiss, a silent expression of gratitude and love.

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Ranmaru Main Story Chapter 6

Translations may not always capture the exact nuances or tone of the original text. Expect grammatical errors and inaccuracies.

Part 1

My body and eyelids feel heavy.

(It's like my entire body's refusing to wake up.)

But then, it came without mercy.

Ranmaru: "Hey, wake up."

(Ugh…)

Someone kept shaking me, clearly trying to wake me up.

With all that shaking, there was no way I could stay asleep.

Mai: "..........."

Ranmaru: "Morning, Lady Mai."

Mai: "..........."

(Maybe this is all just a dream.)

Ranmaru: "Hey, don't try to close your eyes again."

His beautiful face leaned in, and I instinctively furrowed my brows.

Mai: "Ranmaru, why are you here?"

Ranmaru: "Did you already forget?"

Ranmaru lifted his wrist and showed it to me.

(Ah…)

As if pulled along, my hand lifted too.

(I really wanted this to be a dream.)

The thing that firmly linked the two of us was the shackle we were bound with last night.

Ranmaru: "With this on, there's no way we can be apart."

Mai: "If we take it off, we can go our separate ways."

Ranmaru: "Can you swear, right here and now, that you won't try to run even if we take it off?"

Mai: "..........."

Ranmaru: "See? That's why it's a no."

With an exaggerated sigh, he swung our joined hands back and forth.

Ranmaru: "Anyway, we should probably wash up since we ended up falling asleep all sweaty after last night's game of tag."

(Wait—like this?!)

Mai: "A bath?!"

Mai: "I'm fine on my own. Why don't you just rest in the room?"

Ranmaru: "Thanks. But I wouldn't be able to relax knowing you're all alone and lonely."

(If we weren't in this situation, I might actually find those words sweet.)

Mai: "Look, seriously, just wait a minute—"

Ranmaru: "Yes, yes. You can complain after the bath."

He ignored my attempts to back away and tugged on our connected wrists.

(Ranmaru really is strong!)

I tried to resist, but in the end, he just dragged me along.

Ranmaru: "Feels refreshing, right? Aren't you glad you took a bath?"

Mai: "Yeah, I guess so."

(Honestly, I'm just relieved nothing bad happened.)

Before we bathed, he chained his own cuff to a nearby post and stepped outside, leaving me behind.

(Changing in and out of a kimono was a hassle, but I'd done similar things back when I was under surveillance.)

(Even being chained like this doesn't feel all that inconvenient.)

(Wait, no—what the hell am I thinking?! I shouldn't be getting used to being a prisoner in the first place!)

Just as I quietly clenched my fist, he turned to look back at me.

Ranmaru: "Starting today, you'll be sticking with me—wherever I go."

(Huh?)

Mai: "W-Why?"

Ranmaru: "It's because I have no intention of taking off your handcuffs."

Ranmaru: "Things might get a bit inconvenient, but that goes for both of us."

He gave the chain dangling between us a little tug, as if to say he wouldn't tolerate any objections.

(He really does plan to keep an eye on me 24/7.)

In other words, from today on, my chances of escaping are practically zero.

(If I could go back to yesterday, I'd do it all differently!)

Just like that, I began spending my days by Ranmaru's side.

Follower: "Lord Ranmaru! Do you have a moment?"

Ranmaru: "Yeah, sure. What's up?"

It seemed like even here, people relied on him.

(Maybe I can use this opportunity to gather even a little bit of information!)

I tried to casually listen in on their conversation—when suddenly...

Ranmaru: "Oh, right."

Mai: "Huh? Wah—"

He covered both my ears with his hands.

(I can't hear a thing.)

Ranmaru: "………."

His eyes seemed to say he could see right through everything I was thinking.

Then, on another night—

(Ranmaru's asleep, right?)

(Okay, now's my chance.)

I carefully reached for the handcuffs, making sure not to make a sound.

Ranmaru: "Alright, alright. It's bedtime, remember?"

Mai: "Pretending to be asleep is so mean!"

Ranmaru: "Look who's talking. Hey, isn't it time you gave up already?"

All I could do was grit my teeth at his exasperated look.

Every day, I felt like I was dancing in the palm of his hand.

Still, thanks to all this, I learned a few things.

I learned that Kennyo actually spoke more gently than I expected.

(Though he barely talks to me at all.)

I also realized that this place was actually a temple while I was wandering around the estate.

(Kennyo is a monk, so I guess that makes sense.)

(But still, something feels off.)

That vague sense of unease never quite took shape, and all I could do was tilt my head in confusion.

Then, one day—

Mai: "Looks like it's all clean now."

Ranmaru: "Yeah. It's already getting dark, so we should head back to our room."

It happened just as we finished sweeping the temple grounds and started putting the tools away.

???: "Huh? What are you two doing?"

(Who?)

I turned around, startled by the unfamiliar voice that suddenly cut in.

Motonari: "Well, well, you've got quite the taste."

The mysterious man glanced at our shackled wrists and let out a mocking laugh.

(It's not like this is some kind of fetish or anything.)

I wanted to deny it—but the moment I caught a glimpse of Ranmaru's expression, I froze.

Ranmaru: "…………"

(The mood shifted in an instant. Who the hell is this guy?)

As tension spiked, another man stepped out from behind the tan-skinned stranger.

Kicho: "So this is where you've chosen to build your base. Quite the remote location."

Kicho: "A rundown old temple. Perfect place to hide out."

(Something about this one feels different.)

Ranmaru: "What do you want?"

He stepped forward as if to shield me.

Motonari: "You know why we're here. We have business with the demon hiding out in this temple."

Motonari: "Hurry up and take us to him. He's here, yeah?"

Ranmaru: "..........."

Ranmaru gave a nod and turned toward the temple.

(What's going on?)

Still bound to him by the shackle, I had no choice but to follow.

Eventually, Ranmaru led us to a large hall.

Several followers sat in neat rows before Kennyo, quietly listening to him speak.

Ranmaru: "Lord Kennyo, you have visitors."

Kennyo: "I see."

With a glance from Kennyo, the followers stood and left the hall in silence.

Only after the room was empty did he finally speak.

Kennyo: "I figured you would come sooner or later."

Kennyo: "Motonari Mouri. And Kicho."

(Kicho?)

That second name sounded familiar.

(That's the one Mitsuhide mentioned—the one who attacked Azuchi Castle!)

The very person who had launched a cannon attack on Azuchi Castle now stood before Kennyo.

(All of them are Nobunaga's enemies.)

(And if this Motonari guy is working with Kicho, then he's probably not part of the Oda army either.)

Realizing I was deep in enemy territory, my entire body stiffened with tension.

Just then, Kicho glanced my way.

Kicho: "…………"

(W-What?)

He stared at me with a blank expression, freezing me like a frog under a snake's gaze.

Kicho: "Have we met somewhere before?"

Mai: "Somewhere?"

(Ah—)

------------Flashback-----------

Seamstress: "Look, that guy's so hot."

Mai: "Huh?"

Kicho: "..........."

(Our eyes met.)

(There's something different about him—an aura that sets him apart from everyone else.)

(He stands out like Ranmaru, though in a totally different way.)

---------Flashback Ends--------

The memories I'd lost in a haze of tension suddenly came flooding back.

Kicho: "I thought so. Where have we met?"

Mai: "That's…"

Ranmaru: "She's from a nearby village."

(Ranmaru?)

He cut in smoothly, taking over the conversation before I could say anything.

Ranmaru: "Have you been around here before?"

Kicho: "No. Not even once."

Ranmaru: "Then, it must be a mix-up."

Motonari: "Huh? Then what's with the handcuffs?"

Motonari: "You don't exactly see people going about their day wearing stuff like that."

Ranmaru: "Well, you did say I had unique tastes, Lord Motonari. I figured maybe we were kindred spirits."

(R-Ranmaru?!)

Motonari: "Pfft. You serious?"

(That's not true at all!)

He scoffed, and my cheeks burned in embarrassment.

Kennyo: "Enough idle chatter. Let's get to the point."

The sharp voice that brought the room back to order belonged to Kennyo.

Kennyo: "Ranmaru, take the girl and leave. She's a distraction."

Ranmaru: "Yes, sir."

(I did want to hear the rest, but honestly, I was kind of glad for the interruption.)

Mai: "Hey, Ranmaru. Why did you hide who I really am?"

Ranmaru: "Those two are pretty intense."

Ranmaru: "If they found out you're a valuable hostage, things would get complicated."

Ranmaru: "And also…"

He trailed off, then gestured for me to sit without saying a word.

I did as he said, settling beside him, and he continued.

Ranmaru: "That guy you seemed to recognize—Kicho—was once part of the Oda army."

Ranmaru: "But I heard he vanished without a trace about three years ago."

(Wait.)

Mai: "So… he was one of your comrades?"

Mai: "Then why would he attack the castle? That's betrayal—"

(Ah.)

I stopped myself and looked at him.

He simply gave a crooked smile.

Ranmaru: "Yeah. Maybe he's the same as me."

Ranmaru: "He didn't just betray them—he had a reason to become their enemy."

Ranmaru: "From our side, betrayal is just what happens when you choose to follow your beliefs."

(I wonder if he has one, too—)

Something precious he's trying to protect or stay true to.

Mai: "Why are you guys trying to take Nobunaga's life?"

The thought that rose in my chest came out as a quiet question.

Ranmaru: "…………"

His beautiful face clouded with hesitation.

But then—

Ranmaru: "Would you be willing to listen to Lord Kennyo's story?"

He murmured, beginning to speak quietly.

Ranmaru: "Lord Kennyo was once the high priest of Ishiyama Hongan-ji."

Ranmaru: "He was a man respected by many—dignified, deeply faithful, and kind."

Ranmaru: "To him, Lord Nobunaga—who sought to unify the land through force—was an unforgivable enemy of the faith."

(So the conflict had started way back then.)

Knowing both Nobunaga and Kennyo, I could easily imagine why neither side was willing to back down.

Ranmaru: "Lord Kennyo tried to corner Lord Nobunaga by joining forces with other warlords and temples."

Ranmaru: "Even though he despised violence, he had no choice but to incite uprisings in order to fight back."

His eyes, which had been gazing into the distance, slowly returned to the present.

Ranmaru: "But all the warlords he had allied with were defeated, and even the Hongan-ji was destroyed."

Ranmaru: "Lord Kennyo went into hiding, waiting for the chance to take his revenge."

Ranmaru: "That revenge was meant to take place on the night we attacked Honnō-ji."

(So that means…)

Mai: "He kept hating Nobunaga even after the temple was destroyed—just because they'd been enemies from the start?"

Ranmaru: "No. It's not that simple."

He shook his head slowly, a trace of melancholy in his expression.

Ranmaru: "Deep down, Lord Kennyo genuinely wished things could've been resolved through dialogue—not violence."

Ranmaru: "That's why he agreed to meet when Lord Nobunaga proposed it."

Ranmaru: "But in the end, the talks fell through. From what I've heard, though, the two of them shared some similar ideals."

(Kennyo and Nobunaga both wanted to resolve things peacefully?)

Mai: "Then why didn't they just sign a truce?"

Ranmaru: "Because the Oda army chose to wipe us out instead."

Mai: "Wipe you out?"

The chilling words sent a shiver down my spine.

Ranmaru: "On the day of the next negotiation, Lord Nobunaga sent Kicho to us and threw down a severed arm—taken from one of our fellow followers—right in front of us."

(What?!)

Ranmaru: "Lord Kennyo lost all hope in the so-called Demon King after that. So he gathered his forces and attacked the Oda army."

Ranmaru: "The war raged on for about a year. Countless lives were lost, and as I said earlier, Hongan-ji was destroyed."

Resting his cheek on his knee, he looked away, his brows drawn in sorrow.

Ranmaru: "Everything he had cherished, protected, and held close was reduced to blood-soaked ashes."

Ranmaru: "It was like hell."

(Hell…)

His calm voice began to paint a scene that was far too horrific.

Ranmaru: "Inside the burning temple, it was so hot it felt like my skin was about to catch fire. Ash floated down like snow, and in the middle of it all, there were voices."

Ranmaru: "Women and little children were desperately chanting prayers."

Mai: "………"

I couldn't speak. It was too much.

(I don't think he's lying.)

(But I can't believe the Oda army did something so cruel.)

(I don't want to believe it.)

My chest tightened, as if the ground beneath me was giving way.

Ranmaru: "Well, I guess it's only natural to want revenge."

(Huh?)

His words felt strangely detached.

(It's like he's only speaking on Kennyo's behalf.)

Mai: "Hey, Ranmaru."

Mai: "Do you hate Nobunaga too? Do you really… want to kill him?"

Ranmaru: "Huh? Why are you asking me that?"

Mai: "Because—"

(Because after everything you told me about Kennyo, there's still one thing I don't know.)

Mai: "I want to know your real feelings."

Ranmaru: "…………"

A hint of bitterness crept into his otherwise quiet, unreadable expression.

(Just as I thought.)

Ranmaru has always been good at hiding what he really feels.

That's why, when I was taken hostage, I felt completely betrayed.

(But now I understand.)

(He's not perfect either.)

Mai: "Tell me, Ranmaru."

Mai: "Do you really want to kill Nobunaga?"

Ranmaru: "I do."

He smiled—soft and sudden, like a flower blooming.

(I knew it.)

Mai: "Liar."

Previous Part ╎ Next Part

[writingforstraykids]

A worthy opponent - Channie Bday fic🖤

Pairing: Minchan

Word Count: 709

Summary: Chan comes home late, once again finding Minho already asleep in their bed. Minho makes sure to get his love comfortable and grant him some rest.

Warnings/Tags: fluff, angst if you squint, cuddles, teasing, comfort fic

do not repost, translate, or plagiarize my works in any way here or on other platforms. ©️writingforstraykids 2024 -

Chan quietly shuts the door to their apartment and drops his things on the sofa. He rubs his face tiredly and makes his way to their bedroom, carefully opening the door. It's 3am, so Minho is probably sleeping.

Stepping into their bedroom and switching on the dim lamp on his bedside table, his suspicion proves right and his heart sinks a little. Minho looks small laying in their big bed, blanket pulled up to his shoulders. Chan carefully climbs into bed and sits on his knees next to him, watching him for a moment. He reaches out to gently brush back his hair and caress his cheek. Pulling back the blanket to join him, he spots Wolfchan hugged tight to Minho's chest. “Oh my god,” he whispers to himself amused and pulls out his phone. He quickly snaps a few pictures and giggles to himself while checking them. Minho looks adorable like this. “You're so cute,” he whispers and leans down, planting a kiss on his forehead.

Minho stirs in his sleep and tiredly blinks his eyes open. “Channie?” he asks, voice thick with sleep.

“I'm here, baby,” he tells him and gets comfortable next to him.

Minho rubs his eyes with a soft huff and squints at him. “Hey, love,” he smiles sleepily.

“Hey,” Chan says softly and caresses his cheek lovingly. Minho leans into his touch and covers his hand with his own. “I'm sorry for waking you.”

“It's okay,” he assures him drowsily. “As long as I get a kiss.”

“Cute.” Chan laughs but leans in, connecting their lips into a lazy, but loving kiss. His hand finds the back of Minho's neck, fingertips curling against the hair resting there. Their lips meet in a slow, tired dance and Minho scoots closer instinctively. Their legs tangle beneath the blanket, Minho's hand finds its place between Chan's shoulders, the other crumpling up his shirt above his chest.

“Missed you. I sleep better when you're here,” he whispers into the kiss and Chan doesn't say anything. Minho pulls back when he suddenly hears him sniffle and his eyes widen, stunned seeing the tears slowly flowing from Chan's guilty eyes. “Channie love?” he asks worriedly and cups his face. “Heyy, what's going on? Who do I have to kick for hurting you? Do you need a hug?”

Chan giggles through tears and presses his lips together tightly for a moment. “I just remembered why I love being home so much, with you,” he whispers. Minho's face softens so much he looks like a baby. “You're so freaking perfect, Min. Why me?”

“Because you're perfect for me,” Minho says softly and presses their foreheads together. “I love you, Channie, and I'm so so proud of you.”

“I love you too,” he whispers, not fully trusting his voice. “So so much,” he hiccups a little and Minho nudges his nose against Chan's, thumbs caressing his cheeks and wiping his tears. “I'm sorry I'm not home when I should be.”

“Channie, my dearest love,” he says softly and kisses his nose, making him giggle wetly. “It's okay. I know you’ll get home at some point. Until then you have a worthy opponent,” he jokes and holds up Wolfchan.

“Mhm I saw, already took some pictures,” Chan smiles and Minho's jaw drops.

“You didn't,” he laughs.

“I did. That's gonna be some good material for our next skz talker, don't you think?” he teases and Minho gently punches his chest.

“Don't you dare,” he giggles and covers his face in tiny kisses. “You menace.”

Chan smiles softly before speaking up again. “Can you hold me tonight?” he asks timidly and Minho nods quickly.

“Of course,” he assures him. He loves spooning Chan sometimes, burying his face in his neck or strong back, resting his hands on his firm chest and intertwining their legs. Chan turns in his arms, scooting as close as possible and a sense of relief floods them both. Minho finally holds onto Chan now, instead of Wolfchan, and Chan finally feels at home. "Now sleep, my love, so we can celebrate your birthday as we should later."

Chan giggled tiredly, cuddling into him. "Yeah?"

"Yeah, birthday boy," he smiled happily, kissing the back of his neck. "Happy birthday, Channie love."

MASTERLISTS | PROMPT LIST | GUIDELINES

Taglist (Please let me know if you want to be added to or removed from the taglist):

@atinyniki @galaxycatdrawz @silverstarburst @aaa-sia @lilmisssona @kthstrawberryshortcake @channieaddict @soullostinspaceandtime @rebecca-johnson-28 @lixie-phoria @kibs-and-bits @xxstrayland @ihrtlix @pheonixfire777 @mellhwang @palindrome969 @theo4eve @harshaaaaa @rylea08 @heeyboooo @manuosorioh @gisaerlleri @andassortedkpop @lailac13 @bbokari711 @kazuuuaaa @rssamj @wolfyychan @stellasays45 @chrizzztopherbang @ionlyeverwantedtobeyourequal @silentreadersthings @myforevermelody143 @sapphirewaves @dis-trict9 @minh0scat

[vulpixisananimal]

(You run down the stairs two at a time, taking the lead as usual. What WAS that sadness anyawy?!? The Sadness that appeared because of The King were more intelligent, had plans, but the King was gone, and so sadness you'd find now would just be, normal, animalistic. But this one was smart, AND it could freeze time!)

<Doesn't matter, we have a job to do.>

(You get to the main room. It's a mess. Tables were overturned, Odile was frozen in time, Bonnie was against the far wall and Nille was protecting them. The door was ripped from the wall, and Isabeau was nowhere to be seen.)

(The sadness loomed over Pétronille, who, seeing you walk down, got distracted, looking right at you. The sadness took the chance, and flung her across the room.)

"S-SIS!!" (Bonnie screamed, looking over, Nille wasn't moving.)

"I-I'll unfreeze madame-" (Mirabelle starts.)

"Don't!" <You interrupt.> "She'll likely fight us, we can't risk it."

<She looks at you, clearly annoyed. You ignore it, looking back to the sadness. It had turned and was staring right at Mirabelle.>

"'Frin!!" <Bonnie calls to you. They're trying to slip away from the sadness while it was distracted.>

<Mind if I take over?>

(I. . . Alright, don't go crazy with looping, please.)

<Alright. You reach down out of habit and take those singing stones and place them in your ear. You hear music.>

"Siffrin?" <Ramos looks over to you.> "What are. ."

(You want to know, too.)

<. . . Habit, you think. That's what you would do in the play, right? Place stones in your ears before each grand battle- >

(Alright alright, just focus.)

"Ready?" <You ask, drawing your dagger. Mirabelle draws her sword, and you see Ramos take a ready stance.>

<The sadness screamed, charging at you.>

<You rush at the sadness, feinting to the right and swiping at it, connecting.>

"H-huh?!?" <Ramos exclaims.> "What blinding type IS it anyways!"

"I don't know, b-but. . ." <Mirabelle clapped her hands together, you feel a warmth wash over you. Good.> "We'll figure it out!"

<The sadness looks at you with a hate in its eyes you had never seen before. It roared and slashed at you. You dance back, feeling a claw barely graze your chest.>

<Ramos rushes forward, striking with their tonfas in quick succession. They connect, but it's not much.>

(Don't you know combat crafts?!?)

<Why would I.>

(Blinding- tag in please now THANK you!!)

(The wave of nausea passes as you jump back. You snap your fingers, feeling your feet get lighter in an instant. What do you MEAN you don't know combat crafts!!)

<Never bothered. Let's argue later, shall we?>

(The sadness screamed, it's sharp, needle arms formed into hands and they clapped together- wait. Paper sign, scissors sign, two crafts?)

(Mirabelle rushed forward with her rapier, striking at the sadness. The blow bounced off, harmless.)

<Something's wrong.>

(Huh?)

<Keep fighting.>

(From the side, Bonnie rushed in with their pan, bonking the sadness before running past you and behind you.) "F-frin!!! 'Frin there's, there's something wrong with Nille!"

<You glance over to Nille. Yeah it's called being out cold.>

(Be nice!) "What happened?"

"S-she was, acting really weird, and, a-and looking for you and, tried to grab me when I said no and-"

"Eyes up Sif!!" (Ramos yells, throwing up a scissors sign and slowing down the sadness.) "Talk after!"

"There might not be an after!!" (Stars, should have phrased that better for Bonnie.)

(Siffrin time. Okay, so if it's scissors and paper, then you should. . . You make a first and strike! There we go! Damage!! Proper damage!! The sadness roared in anger.)

"FINALLY, progress!!" (Ramos cheered.)

"Careful though!! I-it might change it's typing but I know we can do it!!!" (Mira adds. She looks focused, cheering you on. You feel stronger.)

<I doubt it's that.>

(What makes you say that?)

<Keep fighting.>

(Ramos time, they strike at the sadness with a fist sign, just like yours, it hit a weakness. You were getting back in the groove. You could win this!)

(The sadness stumbled to a knee. It looked at you with loathing. It stood up and struck a needle like arm into the earth.)

(+80% recovered.)

"WHAT?!?"

"Oh that is SO unfair!!"

"STUPID CRABBING SADNESS!!"

<Now why did you have to go and jinx us.>

(You didn't- UGH! FINE!!) "Hey!! Over here, crabface!!" (The sadness turned to look at you. You gave a wink to Ramos, who took the chance and strikes at the sadness while its back was turned.)

(The sadness screamed, turned, and slapped Ramos away with a powerful paper craft. K.O.ed.)

"Ramos!!" (Mirabelle yells. She looks to the sadness, then to the collapsed ally, then to you. She doesn't know what to do.)

"Just, just focus on-" (You start to respond, Mirabelle shrieks, alerting you. You look back and the sadness was right in your face. It stares at you. It's eyes, those eyes.)

(It looks at you with, disgust, with, betrayal. In anger, confusion, and, and. . .)

(You can't move.)

<Siffrin- >

(Your mind is freezing up. Your body. You're. You. Can't. You, you. . .)

<. . .>

<. . . We're dead.>

<You just don't know it yet.>

<. . . . You can still hear me.>

<Stuck on your own words? Of course, you were always stuck in your own head when jumping into those tears.>

<We can't even see how the fight is going, we just have to wait.>

<. . . . .>

<. . . . . . . . . . .>

<. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Try again.>

[confusedmothboy]

hey hi hello. i MUST know more about his involvement in the adult timeline. truth be told i don’t really gaf about the adult timeline but I’m so curious to see how it would play out like this with eddie !!!!!!

im gonna go through his involvement in the adult tl like hes in the show itself bear with me

[warning for drugs, an overdose, suic!de, imagery describing that in the second written portion]

eddie is revealed as a survivor in season 1 episode five as the group's starting to discuss what to do with the blackmail and gather the group that would have gotten it back together. we find out that he got a postcard of his own and ripped it up and shoved it down the garbage disposal because he can't be bothered to deal with whatever it might mean. he decides not to tell travis because he assumes (and is eventually right in the assumption) that it'll just make him spiral. but he doesn't realize until later that morning that it's connected to the other survivors until he gets a phone call from nat.

--

Eddie felt his phone buzz in his pocket, the way it did when he was getting a call. Without looking at the caller ID, he stood up, leaning against the kitchen counter to answer it.

“Professor Taylor, what can I do for you?” He introduced himself, an instinct that persisted even outside of his office on campus.

“Eddie. We need to talk.” He heard Nat’s voice on the other line. “Did you or Travis get one of those fuckass postcards too?” She asked, her voice panicked. Eddie couldn't answer her question verbally, obviously. He glanced at Travis, who hadn't looked up from the paper. 

“Miss Watson, it's been a while, how have things been?” Eddie responded, to a confused noise from Nat. 

“The hell- No, Eddie, I know it's you.” Nat said, frustrated. Eddie paused to make it sound like whatever he was pretending to listen to was real. “Well?” Nat asked. 

“Yeah, I’d bet, let me check my schedule, I’ll see if I can fill in for your class on Monday.” He continued, much to Nat’s protest and confusion. “History of the far East, right? Oh, don't worry, I could have a lesson planned for that within the hour. No, no, don't you worry, Barbara, take all the time you need out with your kids. Alright. Alright. You rest up, now. Alright. Buh-bye.” Eddie ended the call, and put his phone on Do Not Disturb. 

--

nat and him talk later as well, and she promises that she won't point the other survivors to him or travis. unfortunately, eddie didn't realize that there would be two postcards delivered to their house, and he had missed the one meant for travis. a week after he clears everything up with nat, travis starts freaking out over the blackmail. he asks eddie if he got a card as well, and eddie denies it (which travis believes because. if eddie though they would only get one card delivered then why wouldn't travis also think that). travis and eddie's storylines only intersect with the rest of the adults through nat, because she's the only one they stayed friends with.

they call nat up around episode 7, and talk it through with her before she leaves for her stakeout. at this point, none of the other survivors have put together that they should find the two. everyone but shauna forgot about them and ofc shauna's still tracing the adam thing.

speaking of, no, eddie doesn't help clean up adam's murder. he's a) not in new jersey in the first place, and b) employed. he has his own pressing issues to deal with in episode 10. im imagining this awful scene of him in the teen tl finding jackie's body that gets spliced with him in the adult tl finding travis's body OH MY GOD. IT WOULD HURT SO BAD. -end season one-

at the start of season two, nat is still taken by lottie's cult, but more around the second episode rather than the s1 finale because then the news has time to reach her. eddie pretty much runs into misty while doing his own investigation on nat's whereabouts and tags along her and walter's investigative work. except he is really running out of vacation days and yes his husband just died but unlike literally everyone else here he is EMPLOYED. HE HAS A 401K.

eddie to literally every single one of the survivors after they all meet up at lottie's cult:

after finding nat, he figures it's alright to head home. he doesn't like lottie, but he knows that she always had a sweet spot for nat, so he figures not much can go wrong at the cult. unfortunately, he can't get a ride back home and all of a sudden he's in lottie's little sharing circle and they're proposing a hunt. and that's when shauna says something Very Wrong that he immediately takes as her having something to do with travis's death. don't ask me what cause the adult tl is a vague blur but it was something drug related (talking abbout misty's plan with lottie and the fent needles or whatever but he wasn't in on that conversation) and he comes to the conclusion that SHE was the one that laced the stuff travis od'ed on.

season two concludes with nat dyng and lottie being dragged away and eddie can't explain it but he knows (or thinks he knows) that somehow shauna's behind all of it. which she's not. but that doesn't mattter to him at that point.

in season three, eddie uses his weekends and free time to stalk shauna. his boss is on his ass for neglecting his lectures but he can't exactly explain the direness of the situation. eddie is immediately on board with misty that shauna killed lottie. again, he didn't like lottie but he hated shauna more. and he knows something's up with tai so he stays away from her. he's part-timing their bullshit at this point.

when shauna snaps against melissa, eddie isn't there to see it (again. employed), but misty breaks it down for him and they both conclude that shauna's fully back in her wilderness mentality.

also, after eddie starts backing misty with her investigation and walter and misty split up is when misty figures that of the first four times in the wilderness weren't the charm, it mght be worth one more shot with eddie, cause it's not like he's taken anymore (shocker: the gay man rejects her)

after van's death, eddie starts openly antagonizing shauna, to which shauna and tai start turning on him. we've established that this guy gets very cold and self destructive after losses. this is the end of season 3 so everything beyond this is just speculation on where the characters will go during season 4.

eddie leaves the group once he realizes he's becoming a danger to himself, but we all know what happens when the survivors try to leave after getting roped back in. tai and misty go after melissa, while shauna goes after eddie. misty can't stop her, so she just gives eddie information about what's going on with shauna when she assumes he needs it.

eddie eventually quits his job at the beginning of season 4. he's been seeing shauna's fuckass minivan everywhere and he realizes that The End Is Nigh. cause we all know she's harboring the same grudges against him from the wilderness. if she tried to kill him out there, she'll do it again 26 years later. he locks himself in his house for a whole episode and a half before finally he decides to pack his valuables and drive down the east coast to give them to a cousin of his before he meets his end. he puts some mighty emphasis on the security of his vintage dishware.

in season 4 episode 5, eddie runs to his car and guns it south. he quickly notices shauna tailing him and after hours of trying to lose her, he decides that it's not worth it to involve his living family in her bullshit any longer (he STILL thinks she killed travis and lottie and did something with nat so. he knows he's next). and he's right to think she was gonna kill him. she had just been waiting for him to leave his house, she learned her lesson not to attack people in their living rooms. eddie drives to the cemetery where travis is buried, and shoots himself in the head as he sees her headlights coming down the road. he always was a fan of romeo and juliet in english class.

--

“Want a smoke?” Eddie opened his eyes to the inside of an airplane. Drenched in dark blue lighting, the plane shuddered with turbulence. Eddie gripped the armrest instinctively, and turned to the voice. Eddie. Eddie was looking at Eddie, the him that he was twenty five years ago, to be exact. Younger Eddie’s brown and green jacket was without wear, his hair trimmed, his earring a single, simple stud. The real Eddie shook his head, processing the question. “Suit yourself.” The younger Eddie -Ed, maybe- said, taking a cigarette out of the box and flicking the lighter on. He took a deep drag.

Eddie looked around the plane. He was belted in, and fussed with the clasp before giving up. To his right was himself. To his left was Jackie. Jackie. Her eyes were blank, her face devoid of any emotion Eddie associated with his sister. 

“Jacks- hey.” Eddie managed, his eyes welling with tears at the sight of her, a memory suspended in time. 

“Don’t bother. She can't talk. None of them can.” Ed said, gesturing behind the row the three were sitting in. Eddie turned around and saw Nat, her younger self, same as Ed. In the back rows were Ben and Javi. All their faces were blank, unmoving and unfeeling. Eddie tried again to undo his seatbelt, and Ed scoffed. “This is how we remember them. I was confused for a while, and then I realized we never really saw them as people. As individuals beyond whatever we did. Didn't you ever figure that out?”

Eddie turned to glare at Ed, mostly out of confusion. That couldn't be true. He’s fucking with me. 

“I’m not fucking with you.” Ed said, like he was able to read Eddie’s mind. “You and I both know that deep down, the people we surrounded ourselves with were just props for boosting our own self worth.” The boy’s words were mumbled slightly, his cigarette bitten between his teeth. 

“I don't remember being such an asshole when I was your age.” Eddie said. 

“Twenty five years here will do that to you. Took you long enough, I mean, if we had known it would have been over so quick, I would have finished the job before any of this shit happened.” Ed exhaled a cloud of smoke as he talked. A projector whirred to life at the front of the plane, just a few rows up from where they were sitting. 

Pasted on the screen was a scene that still replayed in Eddie’s mind occasionally. The razor blades, the miscellaneous pills scattered around. He hadn't been able to finish the job back then. Eddie looked back at Ed. 

“I had a good life.” Eddie said finally. “I learned to be happy that you failed that night, fuck you very much.”

“What did you accomplish? Tell me that. You got a nice job, a little house, stayed with him after all those years?” His younger self rolled his eyes. “Just to get pushed to the brink by Shauna and Lottie at the end of it all?” Ed crossed his arms. Eddie was speechless. He had done everything he did to preserve the dreams that the boy next to him had dreamed. On the screen, his current body was projected, laying on the dirt of that cemetery, growing cold. Eddie had to look away, the blood on the gun his hand was holding in a death grip was enough. He didn't need to see his own head.

“Oh, don't bother looking for him around here, by the way. We both know why he's not on this plane. I can still feel that resentment, you know. You can't hide from me.” Ed said, after Eddie’s silence. Eddie was snapped out of his thoughts. 

“You don't know anything. I loved that man more than your apathetic ass could ever fathom.” He spat, ignoring the gnawing feeling in his stomach at the comment. 

“I can feel that pit in your chest too. Two things can be true at once. I would hope an esteemed history professor like yourself would be able to recognize that.” Ed said tiredly, tapping the ash from his cigarette onto Eddie’s arm. Eddie brushed it away, annoyed. He refused to believe that he used to be that pretentious as a young man. The projector showed scenes of Eddie, Travis, and Nat, a glance at the trio through the years. “Look, you spent twenty-five years talking those two off the ledge. And it fucking killed you, I mean, way before you did.”

“Shut the fuck up. I’ll-” Eddie started. 

“Hurt me? Beat me up? We both see the irony in that. Plus, you're not going anywhere with this.” Ed tapped the seatbelt around Eddie’s waist. “Lord knows I’ve tried. Oh, she found you. For my sake, not yours, we're gonna turn that little recap off. I don't want to know what she does with us.” Ed said, looking back up as Shauna appeared in the scene. The projector clicked off, its fans whirring to a stop. That was the first thing Eddie agreed with him on. The momentary relief was replaced quickly by the realization that his life was over. He had died. And now that he was gone, what more was there to discuss? He felt his heart sink. 

“What happens now?” Eddie turned to Ed, not able to hide the fear in his voice, or the way his hands started shaking. 

“Calm down.” Ed said, leaning back in his seat. “You think I know? We’ll find out together.” Ed closed his eyes with a smile as the plane rattled violently. Eddie glanced at Jackie, back at Nat, Javi, and Ben. They all had the same expressionless looks on their faces. His lip quivered as the lights flickered off in the cabin. 

Eddie slowed his breathing as the rustle of treetops underneath the hull rattled the plane.

--

if you read all this i'll give you 5 dollars (no i wont)

[thezombieprostitute]

He just looks so nervous, unsure. So unlike the Curtis we're used to. I wonder what made him this way?

A blind date at a fancy restaurant? What was I thinking, Curtis internally laments.

In truth, he knows how Edgar talked him into it. He's been lonely for too long. Over seven years since he's even been on a date, let alone connected with someone. With Edgar, understandably, spending more and more time with his wife, Curtis is feeling lonelier than ever.

And that's how he ended up here, at a fancy restaurant he could barely afford. He gave his name to the hostess who escorted him to a private dining area. His breath hitches a little when he sees you.

You smile and stand to greet him, extending your hand. He shakes your hand but internally winces, thinking he should have kissed it with how elegant you look. Thankfully you don't seem offended and gesture for the two of you to sit.

Curtis is so far out of his comfort zone but the more you talk to him, the more at ease he feels. His smile feels less and less forced. You even seem to light up when he asks for your opinions on what to order, even more so when he doesn't immediately dismiss them. He can't help but wince at the costs but the fact that you're taking his tastes and preferences into considerations, as opposed to just the most expensive items, helps him trust your suggestions.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics. Curtis appreciates that you don't try to dominate the conversation, that you're patient when he needs a minute to think about what he wants to say. He definitely understands why Edgar set this date up. Even the arrival of the food doesn't hinder the talking and laughing between the two of you.

After the meal he gets nervous again. He's not looking forward to the bill, but he's had such a wonderful time and wants to be a gentleman. But as the conversation continues and the plates are cleared away, no bill arrives. Curtis gets more nervous and confused and it's distracting from the date.

"Are you okay, Curtis?"

"Just...I don't want to be rude, but...where's the check? It's not that I want this date to end, of course! But, I...I don't want to...I want to make sure our tab is settled."

You giggle a little, "don't worry about that. I own this restaurant. It's why I asked to meet you here." Curtis's eyes go wide at your confession and you giggle again. "I always have first dates here because it's a safe place for me. If it turns out that my date is a jackass, I definitely stick them with the bill and never see them again. But for a date as nice as you, I've got it covered." You give him a wink and he blushes.

"Does this mean you're up for a second date?" he asks, eyes almost pleading.

"You know, I think it does," you smile at him.

"I'm very glad to hear that," Curtis beams.

Tagging: @alicedopey; @delicatebarness; @icefrozendeadlyqueen; @lokislady82; @ronearoundblindly

[canirove]

Pedri x Ferran Torres Imagine

Author's note: This is my first time writing something like this, so I don't know if pepople will like it or not or if I will write more in the future 😅 But I saw that first pic of Pedri and Eric I'm using in the header, and instantly thought about them looking at Ferran and couldn't help myself 😁 I don't know either if I'm using the right tags or if I'm missing some so it reaches more people, so if you can think of some please let me know! Hope you like it, and thank you for reading! 💜

Little summary: Pedri and Ferran have had a crush on each other for a while, but neither of them have been brave enough to ask the other out until…

Masterlist

“Look at him, bro. Isn't he simply gorgeous?”

“I guess.”

“You guess? C'mon, Pedri. Look at him. Look at that smile. At the dimple on his chin. At those muscles.”

“Eric, did you just sigh?” Pedri chuckles.

“How not to” he sighs again, his eyes fixed on Ferran. 

He had signed for Barcelona and been part of the team just for a few months, but basically everyone in the team already had a crush on him. Pedri included. Though unlike everyone else, who had already tried to make a move on him, he had done nothing because he was too shy even if he felt there was some kind of connection between them. 

For example, every time Ferran has caught him looking at him, instead of rolling his eyes and telling him to mind his business or focus on training like he does with the others, he smiles at him, making him feel funny things in his stomach. One time he even winked at him, catching Pedri so by surprise that he tripped with the ball he was playing with and ended up on the floor, his teammates teasing him about his fall for a week. And while with them he gets all serious when they try to joke with him during training, usually telling them that he is there to work and play football, with him it is completely different. Pretty often it is Ferran the one joking with him or teasing him about something, both of them laughing together and having what Pedri would call, a moment. 

So there definitely is something between, but what? He doesn't know.

“Do you think he would say yes to going out with me?”

“What?” Pedri says, trying to stop looking at the way Ferran is biting his lip while Flick shows him some papers and explains something to him. He has noticed he does it when he is focused on something, and he can’t help but find it extremely sexy. More than once he's imagined how it would be to bite Ferran's lip while kissing him, which is something he should not be thinking about a teammate, but…

“If I ask him to go out on a date with me, do you think he will say yes?”

“He's made it very clear he isn't interested in any player, Eric. That he's here to play football, nothing else.”

“I know. But just because he's said no to the others doesn't mean he will say it to me too, you know? Besides, what if he's just playing hard to catch?”

“Doesn't look like something Ferran would do, to be honest.”

“And how do you know, uh? Are you bffs with him now?” Eric says with a teasing smile.

“No” Pedri replies, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Are you sure? Because I've seen you talking and laughing together, and you seem to get along quite well. Are you hiding something from us, Pedri?”

“Something like what?” he says, trying to act normal while praying for his cheeks to not turn bright red.

“I don't know. Maybe Ferran ignores us all because he's interested in you. Because you two are seeing each other in secret.”

“Don't be stupid, Eric” Pedri laughs. “I don't like him and he doesn't like me unless it is to tease me. The relationship I have with him is the same I have with any other teammate.”

“If you say so…”

“Yes, I do. So stop imagining things.”

“Ok, ok…” he says. “But if there isn't anything going on between you two, then you won't mind if I go and ask him out, will you?”

“No, I won't” Pedri says. Though he does mind. Because if for some reason Ferran says yes, they go out and things work out between them, seeing one of his best friends dating the guy he likes won't be easy. At all. 

“Then I'm gonna go shoot my shot. Wish me luck, bro��� Eric says, getting up from the cooler where they both were sitting.

“Good luck” Pedri mutters while hating himself. Why can't he be as brave as Eric and be the one asking Ferran out? Why does he have to be such a coward? Why… “Urgh” he groans, picking a ball to have something to focus on that isn't Eric and what he is about to do.

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━

“Is Flick's handwriting that bad?” 

“Uh?” Ferran says, looking up from the papers on his hands.

“That” Eric says, pointing at them. “I saw you reading that with the gaffer. Did he write it?”

“Oh, no. I did.”

“What?”

“It is a gym plan I made for myself to help me improve on some things.”

“Wait a minute… You can't understand your own writing?” he says, trying his best to not laugh.

“I can't, no” Ferran sighs.

“Wow” Eric chuckles.

“Yeah, well. Can I help you with anything?”

“You definitely can” he smiles. “Are you free tomorrow?”

“I… yes. Why?”

“Well, a friend of mine just opened a new restaurant and he has been asking me to go pay him a visit, so I was wondering if you would like to come check it with me.”

“Eric, are you asking me to go on a date with you?” Ferran says, arching an eyebrow.

“I am, yes.”

“Oh, wow” he laughs. “That was a very confident answer, you know? I've liked it. The others usually start mumbling when I ask them.”

“The others aren't me” he shrugs. “So, would you like to accompany me to my friend’s restaurant? We can first have a drink and then have dinner.”

“I…” Ferran says, looking past him at where Pedri is. If only he was the one asking him out… 

Since he had signed for Barcelona, basically everyone in the team had tried to make a move with him. Everyone but Pedri, the one Ferran he had a connection with. The one he liked and that sometimes made him feel and especially behave like a teenager around his crush. Like when he teases him just to have his attention and make him laugh or smile. 

Because he's cute and hot all at the same time, nice, funny, hearing him talk with that Canarian accent of his makes him swoon, they get along quite well, are comfortable with and around each other… Though maybe not as comfortable as Ferran thinks since Pedri doesn't seem to care about Eric asking him out, something he definitely knows is happening because he saw them talking together and looking his way before he came. So maybe he should stop wasting his time waiting for him and just say yes to one of the other boys since he doesn't seem to care. Or maybe he should be the one asking him out, the one making the first move. Maybe…

“You…” Eric says, bringing Ferran back to the real world.

“Ok.”

“What?”

“I'll go on a date with you” Ferran says, not quite believing the words that are leaving his mouth.

“Wait, really?”

“Yes, really. We can meet tomorrow after training, first go have that drink and then dinner. Though you are driving, your car is nicer than mine.”

“Yes, of course! Great” he smiles. “Great! Tomorrow after training, then?”

“Tomorrow after training” Ferran repeats more to himself than to Eric.

“Cool. Ok” he says, his smile even wider as he walks back to join the others. To join Pedri, who quickly looks away when he notices Ferran is looking at him. 

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━

“God, Eric. Do you really need to wear so much perfume?”

“Of course I do. I must look my best for my date” he smiles.

“Smelling as if you’ve showered in perfume isn't looking your best.”

“If you are jealous just say it, Pedro” he smirks.

“I'm not jealous” Pedri replies, focusing on tying up his shoes. But he is. Of course he is jealous. 

To his surprise and everyone's in the changing room, Ferran had said yes to going out with Eric. And judging by what he had been implying while telling the others about his date, he was planning on also ending the night with him. So if he had already said yes to going out with him, who says he would not also say yes to… to… 

“Enjoy your night” Pedri says, picking up his things to stop thinking about Ferran and Eric together. “And don't be a dick. He doesn't deserve it.”

“I will behave, bro. I promise you” he says while putting on even more perfume, making Pedri roll his eyes before leaving the changing room. 

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━

“Oh, shit!” Ferran says after bumping into someone. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, don't worry. I… Hi.”

“Hi.”

“You look great” Pedri says, looking at Ferran from head to toe.

“Thank you” he replies, focusing on adjusting his shirt to ignore the way Pedri checking him out was making him feel. Why did he have to cross paths with him on his way to meet with Eric? Why couldn't it be someone else? 

“Does wearing perfume give you a headache?”

“What?” Ferran says, the oddity of Pedri's question making him look at him. Since it is Friday and they don't play until Sunday, he hasn't shaved yet and… God. He looks so good. Someone should keep all the razors away from him.

“I just left Eric back in the changing room showering himself in perfume. I'm pretty sure I can smell it on myself” he chuckles. “So if it is something that bothers you…”

“I think I'll survive.”

“Oh. Ok. Then I… Umm…” he says, running a hand through his hair. “Enjoy your date. He's a great guy.”

“Thank you.”

“Yeah… umm… Bye” he says, walking past Ferran. 

“Pedri, wait.”

“Yes?” he says behind him.

“Eric… Eric is a great guy even if he showers himself in perfume, you are right. But he… he isn't you.”

“He… what?”

“I wish it was you the one taking me on a date tonight” Ferran blurts out, still giving his back to Pedri.

“What?”

“That I…” he says, taking a deep breath before turning around to look at him. “I wish it was you, Pedri. I wish I was going out on a date with you, not Eric. Because I…” like you. Those are the words he would have said if Pedri hadn't suddenly closed the space between them and was kissing him, his hands cupping his face. Because he is kissing him. Pedri is kissing Ferran and… “Did you just bite my lip?” 

“I… sorry” he says, his cheeks turning bright red while Ferran tried his best to not smile. Blushed Pedri, either during games or because of his shyness, is one of his favourite things in the world. “I just… I got carried away, I… I'm very sorry.”

“No, no, it's ok. But now I'm gonna have to bite you back” he smirks. “I've been thinking about doing it since the day I met you.”

“What?”

“You have very kissable and biteable lips, Pedri.”

“Oh, well, umm… Glad to know we have something in common” he says, the tiniest of smirks showing up on his face. “Your lips also are very kissable and biteable, you know?”

“Kind of guessed it since you just kissed me and bite me” Ferran chuckles. “But I think we have more things than that in common, you know?”

“We do?”

“Yep” he nods. “Fancy finding out about them all while having dinner?”

“Having dinner… as in a date?”

“Yes. A date. Another thing I have been wanting to do with you for a long time.”

“And another thing we have in common” Pedri chuckles. “Though I haven't been as brave as you.”

“It doesn't matter who asked who. What matters is that it is happening. Shall we?” Ferran says, putting some space between them. They were in the middle of a corridor, and anyone could see them.

“Let's go” Pedri smiles. “Though wait. What about Eric and your date with him?”

“I'll text him telling him that I'm not feeling well and that I have to cancel, don't worry.”

“Ok... I just hope he doesn't get mad at me when he finds out the truth. He's one of my best friends.”

“I’m sure he won’t” Ferran says. “Because don't ask me why… but I have the feeling everything is going to be alright.”

And the thing is… that he wasn't wrong. Because as they would find out months later when they make it official that they are dating, there had been someone watching everything that had happened between him and Pedri on that corridor. Someone who had only asked Ferran out hoping that it would make him and Pedri stop being two cowards and finally make a move. Someone who was smiling from ear to ear as he watched them walk together and leave to go on their first date. 

Someone, who wasn't other than Eric.

[cho-aaacho]

—Sunrise Swish

Masterlist

Tags : Love Bites, Biting, Licking, Kissing, French Kissing, Touching, Fingering, Rainy Day, Living Together, Soft Gojo Satoru.

Summary : Satoru always knew how to make you recall every touch under his fingertips, making you moan his name out of intense delight. Each of his kisses carried the sweetness of sugary marshmallows. Isn't it simply charming?

"Raining..."

"Yeah, quite annoying, isn't it? We had plans for a nice picnic today. Unfortunately, we can't control the weather."

Satoru's approaching, his voice blending with the falling raindrops. There is still a romantic connection between you and him, and you can still feel his warmth in the atmosphere.

You gaze into his eyes, azure, your favorite color since you knew him. Although you are trying to find something delightful in him, you are always falling for his eyes. How could it be so attractive in a very dangerous way? It's so unfair.

You are following his gesture carefully, trying to draw him closer, trying to trap him in your universe. A smile curls on his lips as he glides closer.

"I'm not annoyed; I'm just disappointed." You replied.

"Oh, come on... it's not like the world is over. I'm still here, you know."

He studies your features, then shifts his gaze to the table where two cups of hot chocolate sit. With gentle hums, he carefully sits down, draping a thin blanket over your body. He is hinting that he wants to make you comfortable.

Today is your day off, and it should be his too, but as he mentioned earlier, he can't change the weather, and the rain is so heavy outside. 

It annoys you because you crave so much quality time with your dear boyfriend, and today is the only opportunity to cherish romantic moments together. His job is always hard, and sometimes you are frustrated when you can't help Satoru.

But seeing Satoru's calmness and tender smile softens your anger, and you hesitate to disrupt his serenity. You don't want to ruin his realm.

A sigh of boredom floats in the air as you let Satoru nestle against your shoulder, wrapping himself in a blue blanket while still humming a sweet romantic song. 

Why is he so calm and relaxed? 

He's even gentler than usual. Could it be that he's happy because he couldn't go out with you? But... Satoru isn't that bad. You understand him well.

"Looks like someone is happy because he can't go out, huh?"

"Eh?" He moved away from your shoulder and looked at you in surprise. You could see your reflection in his azure eyes, awaiting your sweet reply.

"No. I mean... I'm just trying to be cheerful in front of you; I don't want to let you down!"

"But... still, I'm sad because I can't go out with you, Satoru-kun."

As you expected, Satoru would say something like this. Because he has never said anything negative when it's about you, he always attempts to hide his feelings, and sometimes you can't always see his true colors.

Where is his red? Is he always covered in blue? Maybe... purple? You never knew. Because everything he shows you is always a bright color. The hues are made in heaven.

"Oh... my dear, I'm so sorry."

You grabbed your phone, hoping to lift your spirits by reading some tweets. Perhaps these could help you escape your negative mood. Satoru is still there too.

And then you find something funny between the tweets. A smile curls on your face as you read those tweets because they were so accurate for your situation.

You show your phone to Satoru, making light from the phone caress his pretty face, and carefully add some humor to your voice.

"Hey, take a look at this. Someone had tweeted this. They said, What will you do in the rain with your partner? It sounds oddly familiar, doesn't it?"

A giggle escapes Satoru's lips; he strokes his chin, and with a mischievous grin, his gaze falls at you. "Hmm, perhaps... I'd do something like this."

He drew near and embraced your soul, unveiling your shadow in his azure eyes. The way he breathes and the way he is touching his lips on yours are melting you in every way.

He delicately grazed your face, touching your cheeks with his palm and whispering love lines between kisses. You already know who is in charge now.

Satoru.

Warmth wrapped you in its love, creating the sensation of tenderness. His lips feel so different this time. There is a sweetness and gentleness left in them. 

With closed eyes, his tongue were already playing their games. Tasting chocolate and the sweetness of marshmallows against your mouth. 

You could taste the sugary marshmallow or the sweetness of chocolate mixed in your mouth, sharing a sensual dance between your tongue and his. Dominating, like a romantic dance between lovers.

Your gaze wanders, scanning him, trying to find any clue in his eyes. But no matter how you try, all you can see are his eyes gazing at you. A canvases blue sky.

Satoru, almost in disbelief, but charmed by your expression. A flush of red graces your features, resembling sweet cherry blossoms blushing in the wake of that kiss.

He groaned while playfully nipping at your earlobe. "I know, baby, I know. I'm right here; just breathe."

"It's alright. I'll stop if you're not in the mood." He whispered, and it almost sounded like a love confession to your ears.

but... you just nodded.

He sealed a kiss on your neck, counting every pore on your skin with his textured lips, exploring each contour with a hint of aggression, and teasing every spot of your sweet skin.

Relentless passion.

Sweet bites.

Slow motion.

Sensual licking.

Repeating. 

Squeezing.

Foggy eyes.

Deep breathing. 

Resonating sigh.

Weak moan.

Crimson cheeks.

Wet lips.

Eyes shut, biting lips. Every move and every bite makes your knees weak. You playfully whined in response, squeezing his biceps, pretending for resistance. 

But... Satoru already knows every spot of your vulnerabilities; he knows each spot that could make you moan his name.

With seductive movement, he glided his fingers between your thighs. Exploring your weak spot relentlessly, rubbing your panties in gently. After enjoying the view, he slipped his finger inside your panties eager to feel how aroused you had become.

Satoru delicately slid his finger inside you, making your head arch in response. All of these transform into ecstasy. And. Honestly. It feels so good. You couldn't help but whisper his name.

He moves his finger slowly and gently; he doesn't want you to get hurt or uncomfortable. Until he finds your most sensitive spot, the sweetest area of your being.

"Are you alright?" Satoru inquired, his gaze revealing concern. "You seem to be grappling with something."

"Oh... I'm okay, Satoru-kun. It's just... I can't shake this feeling. I'm afraid if someone catches us making out on the balcony."

"No. They won't," he assured.

Then, a soft breath carried his whispered words to your ear: "I want to mark you as mine."

[mdhwrites]

Recently, I've been poring over the 'TOH critical' tags and, as someone who wanted to properly watch the show, seeing just how many flaws the writing and characters have kinda turned me off from even starting for a bit. Before I found these tags, I would have assumed Owl House was some kind of flawless untouchable masterpiece. Now, I can see that it is immensely flawed. Not bad, but flawed. It has great ideas that it just spaffs up the walls. In some cases that I've seen, it goes against its own message, which brings me to the point of this.

The show seems to have a message of 'be a weirdo! Be who you want to be and don't let anyone tell you to be something you're not'. This 'be yourself' message is fine in a vacuum, but then there's a character who's treatment in the show goes against this. Hooty! From the moment he's introduced, Hooty is presented as a weird creature. Even other people in the Demon Realm find him unnatural. He's kinda in his own world, and he says and does things that are weird. This would work well for the message, but the problem arises from other characters' treatment of him.

Everyone fucking HATES Hooty! They loathe him! They call him names, they hit him, they put him down constantly, the works! Everyone holds him in open contempt! I wouldn't really have an issue with this at first, but Luz also takes part in some of these actions. It would be one thing for negative/antagonistic characters to be doing this, but the self-proclaimed 'weirdo' main characters? She seems annoyed by Hooty's very existence. Don't get me wrong, he IS annoying, but he's also just being himself. He's a proud weirdo and doesn't let anyone stop him from being who he wants.

Why doesn't Luz love him?

He is exactly the type of person(?) who she should feel connected with. And the fact she joins in on some of the bullying is real shitty. Keep in mind Luz was ridiculed and ostracised for being weird, so her then turning around and being all dismissive and annoyed by someone who is, for all intents and purposes, just like her is shitty.

Personally, I would have had it that Luz really likes Hooty. She admires how he's so unapologetic in his weirdness. You could even still have Eda hitting him and calling him names, which Luz calls out. She knows what it's like to be put down for just being yourself, and she's not gonna stand to see someone else get the same treatment.

Or, another idea, Luz starts out sharing Eda's view on Hooty and being annoyed by him. One time, he does something or shows Luz something he's proud of. She calls him or it or both stupid, and Hooty just....cries. I don't mean overblown waterfalls-out-the-eyes crying, I mean he turns his head down and looks visibly upset.

Luz sees that her words have genuinely hurt Hooty. This could be her realising that Hooty isn't just some weird talking punching bag to hurl abuse at. For his weird actions and appearance, he's a person too. Her being mean to him just for being himself, she realises, makes her no better than her bullies.

Then, to make this even more shitty, the characters DO start being nicer to him later on, but only after he's proven himself useful. So that's a good message, isn't it? 'Love is conditional!' It really makes the 'found family' aspect of the Owl House residents feel all the more forced.

Tl;Dr It's okay to be a weirdo, unless you're Hooty!

(But that's just me! I hope all of this made sense and you can decipher what I'm trying to say😊)

So the short answer to this is that Hooty is essentially character/thematic assassination on... Everyone? Because the show wants to say "Be who you are! Have freedom! Express yourself!" Hooty however is constantly mocked, belittled and literally hurt by others with at best an apology. People treat his portable form as gross despite that letting him experience more of life and the one time people begrudgingly acknowledge he is truly good, they then force him to promise to not repeat the helpful behavior. He is not allowed freedom, expression or to be himself without ridicule, EVEN BY LUZ.

This... However has a bigger problem. Hooty is a bit character after all. If you want to claim he doesn't matter because he's just a joke... There's okay precedent for it. The problem is that then you have to ask what he's mocking. After all, gag characters are all about mocking a certain archtype or the like. King's whole point is to mock children who think themselves as self important and point out how deluded and funny that is, or how funny a deluded sense of self grandeur in general is, at least in the first season. As such... What is Hooty?

Hooty is Sheldon. Not literally but spiritually and this is gonna get kind of rough but here me out. For those who don't get the reference, Sheldon is the main autistic representation in The Big Bang Theory. He is also the most antagonistic force within the friend group. Not because he's evil or anything but because he his own certain ways of doing things and ways he looks at things and as such actually has a lot of episodes about expanding his perception of the world and of others learning to understand who he is and why he is the way he is. The show is actually shockingly respectful in this way, at least most of what I have seen of it, and I can portray this with the best joke I can recall from the series. It also will help me later in why The Big Bang Theory is better than TOH at one certain element people REALLY want to say TOH is great about.

The setup is that the other three main dudes are at a white board, discussing plans to go so see a movie. Every plan they devise runs into a road block because of allergies, time, etc. like that, not even only just because of Sheldon's quirks. However, then the lead, the Ross of the group, stops and goes, "I see it." The others squint and look closer before he adds, "It's the only way." The other two agree... And then they all just leave without Sheldon coming with. Sheldon pauses, looks at the board and goes, "They're correct. It was the only way."

I LOVE this joke... Because it's not mean AT ALL. One might think if they're overly sensitive that it is. I mean, how could they leave their friend behind!? But Sheldon is very honest and up front about his quirks and habits. These guys know him well enough that they know better than to force him out of his comfort zone. That he doesn't function that way. Sheldon KNOWS THIS TOO. As such, when presented with the options of telling Sheldon they can't go because they can't go without him or still having a good night and not making their friend feel bad for being why they couldn't go out, they choose to go out and Sheldon agrees that it was the correct option. They respected him while still living their lives.

And this is because The Big Bang Theory's pitch is not to be offensive to nerds like many online people like to make it out to be (I fucking hate people who call it 'Nerd Black Face') but to just make fun of us like any sitcom would. Sitcoms are parodies of real life. They always exaggerated characters we know are somewhat true. We know a Kramer, we know a Ross, we know a Barney, we know a Lorraine. Are they exactly like this? No, it's cranked up so that it's a comedy, that's the fucking point. But this comedic framing also allows it to be honest about ALL sides of nerd dom.

Sheldon is BY FAR made out to be the most successful, intelligent and wealthiest of ALL the guys. Also, all the guys are doing well in their fields and monetarily. Do they have widespread fame and acclaim? Not really but they're not discredited or anything, they just have interdepartmental bickering. That's accurate from literally every scientist I have seen talk about the subject. It's genuine about the good and the bad of the nerd experience while being entertaining.

So what the fuck does any of this have to do with The Owl House? And especially Hooty? It's actually quite simple. While TOH champions having a nerd protagonist, it presents the 'gentrified nerd'. The convenient nerd. They know about fanfiction but won't force you to actually hear about it. They have interests but not hyperfixations. They don't ever get lost down a rabbit hole because they're passionate about something or just want to tell you a neat fact.

Do you know who does though? Hooty. Hooty just wants someone who is willing to listen about his day. He has some weird quirks to how he behaves and he likes some strange things like bugs. He will talk to you for hours on a subject, randomly and just because he can and might forget that you might have other things to do. To me, those are very, VERY accurate parts of nerd life... And we're supposed to fucking HATE Hooty for these things. Remember the only person, in the ENTIRE SERIES to actually befriend Hooty instead of treating him at best as a convenience is Liltih... At the start of her becoming a joke. The only person who shows him real, genuine compassion... Also becomes 'The Cool Aunt' who hyper fixates on niche architecture and has her trauma of working the EC mocked as just being really bad at her job.

It is, genuinely, kind of gross to me. I've actually talked about this before that the show is so hyperfocused on a very specific, very small set of people for who it approves of, which is essentially whoever fits into Luz correctly, that anyone who felt excluded by the show is extremely valid. And yes, Luz has a montage at the start of silly, over the top and extreme behavior... That doesn't continue. At all. The one time she subjects someone to an Azura rant is to torture Eda enough to go to the Convention and that's only because they were already on the subject because King was interested. She quotes Azura but quickly and doesn't lose the thread. She might say a cute word like 'Snorses' but not even enough to make a break in the conversation.

She is convenient. Gus is only interested in human stuff when it's convenient. Willow will put aside her interest in plants when it's inconvenient. Amity just stops giving a shit about being an intellectual AT ALL post her getting a crush. Hunter wears a wolf t-shirt and gets into Cosmic Frontier enough to cosplay it for Halloween... But only Halloween. These are people who are extremely socially acceptable in every way.

Which... explains why nerds love them actually. See, I think Big Bang Theory does deserve criticism, it is by no means perfect and I would be VERY interested in hearing what the Jewish community thinks of Howard who is easily the most problematic character in the show but not all of the criticism is genuine. I think a lot of it comes down to the fact that we're used to a side, gag character representing the kind worst parts of us... But we're not used to being the focus. We can laugh at all the broke bitches who show up in Sitcoms or the jock failures who are meatheads, etc. like that... But laugh at ourselves? Why would we do that? Why would we allow that? We're better than what this show depicts, even if we're not.

It is inconvenient to the narrative we wish to tell ourselves that we are still the outcasts. That are we not part of the dominant culture and so it is unfair to mock our interests and lifestyle. But like... Marvel movies have been the biggest blockbusters for well over a decade and no one bats a fucking at that. D&D is quickly becoming a household name due to its ever expanding influence. We are not the outcasts anymore. Being into a weird cartoon is not some shocking thing like it was 12 years ago when Bronies first made people aware that this subculture of nerds existed. Times are changing but we still wish to see ourselves as only the victims, even as more and more our spaces show that they are just as evil, corrupt, manipulative and cruel as any athletic superstar or pretty boy actor's club.

A lot of these nerds want to believe they are Luz. Never wrong, never giving anyone a reason to dislike them, and always just passionate about the things they like, never annoying. And you know who those people would mock? Who those people HAVE mocked?

Hooty. Because he's more real. He's the demon they wish they didn't have to face in the mirror. See you next tale.

======+++++======

I really do want to re-emphasize this: FUCK HOWARD. Big Bang is NOT good for the jewish community and I don't think if I watched it nowadays I would be able to tolerate his depiction AT ALL. Also, Raj is also probably all sorts of rough too. I'm ONLY defending the nerd portrayal part of Big Bang.

I have a public Discord for any and all who want to join!

I also have an Amazon page for all of my original works in various forms of character focused romances from cute, teenage romance to erotica series of my past. I have an Ao3 for my fanfiction projects as well if that catches your fancy instead. If you want to hang out with me, I stream from time to time and love to chat with chat.

A Twitter you can follow too

And a Kofi if you like what I do and want to help out with the fact that disability doesn’t pay much.

[bullet-prooflove]

Live: Dean Archer x Reader

Tagging: @kmc1989 @mandy426 @chicagotrio101 @mysticcandymiracle @sweetdaytimedreams

Companion piece to:

The Study:

Part One: Courting Disaster - Dean realises Jack is courting you.

Part Two: Distance - Dean tries to discuss the distance between the two of you.

Part Three: Deserving - Jack tries to show you, you deserve better.

Part Four: Navy Shirt - You and Dean don't keep secrets.

Part Five: A Punch In The Face - Dean reacts badly to the news about Jack Dayton.

Part Six: Blow After Blow - Dean doesn't know how much more you can take

Part Seven: Cutting - Dean's surprised when Jack Dayton turns up on his doorstep.

The Wrong One - After a disagreement Dean is forced to confront his choices.

The Deepest Cut - Dean discovers the effect his illness is having on you.

One Rule - You and Dean try to forget about his illness for a night.

By the time your counsellor suggests a joint session, Dean is willing to try anything. It’s been almost a month since he’s slept in the same bed as you and he can feel himself dying inside with every night goes by. It’s no secret that your marriage is on life support and if this is the thing that prevents you from pulling the plug, he’s game.

What he doesn’t expect is how gut wrenching it is. Your pain is a gaping wound you’ve been trying to stifle since you received the news that Dean was in end stage renal failure. It spills out throughout the session; your devastation at his diagnosis, the  struggle to put on a brave face as you supported him and then finally his refusal to accept Sean’s kidney, how it stripped away the very last essence of your self-worth.

“Isobel…” Dean whispers as he turns to face you on the couch. “That decision it was never about you.”

And that is exactly what the problem is. None of this has been about you. Your thoughts your feelings, they didn’t matter because it’s Dean that’s coping with this illness, Dean that’s been enduring it. That’s why you had to put some distance between the two of you, to make some space for yourself, to allow yourself to feel the things you’ve been hiding from Dean.

“You reached a breaking point.” Dean says with understanding as he clasps your hand in his. “I should have been looking after you. I should have…”

“No my love.” You say squeezing his hand tightly. “We should have been looking after each other.”

“Maybe you should try explaining to Isobel why you turned down Sean’s kidney.” Your counsellor suggests as she sits across from the two of you. “Help her to understand your decision.”

It’s hard for him to vocalise the feelings that raise up in his chest when he thinks about accepting his son’s donation. Their relationship is better than ever and he’s proud of the man Sean has become but he can never forget his own complicity in his son’s spiral. The desolation he felt when Sean had revealed he’d been a victim of abuse. The knowledge that he had kept sending him back to that man, week after week thinking it was building character when the truth was he was ruining his son, raping him, plying him with pills. He was supposed to protect Sean from shit like that, instead he’d had his head too far up his own ass because his marriage was failing and he couldn’t see the wood for the trees.

“I was a terrible father.” He tells you, his voice raw with emotion. “I let him get hurt Isobel, I basically gave him to that animal and I didn’t just do it once, I did it over and over again because I thought Navy Cadets would straighten him out. I didn’t realise it was the reason he was acting out, that I was helping to destroy him.”

“Dean…” You begin but he cuts you off.

“I can’t let him give up a piece of him to save me. I can’t ask that of him…”

“You are not a terrible person.” You say softly as you cradle his face between your hands. “I don’t think that and Sean doesn’t think that. He is trying to give you this because he loves you, because he wants time with you, a connection to you. If you deny him this, if you deny me this, it’ll destroy us, it’s already destroying us.”

Dean takes those words home with him that night, he thinks about them as he lies alone in bed, listening to the sounds of the dialysis machine as it pumps the toxins from his body.

“There’s nothing to forgive.” Sean had told him, when they’d cried together over the abuse. “You couldn’t protect me from something you had no knowledge of.”

It doesn’t stop that feeling of guilt, of worthlessness that nestles deep inside of him. He doubts that anything ever will but you’re right, he owes it to his son to give him more time, to keep building that relationship, to how him how much he loves him. He owes it to you too.

He’s about to call you when he hears the front door unlock, the sound of your suitcase across the tiles in the kitchen. Your footsteps are light on the stairs, quiet like they always are. Part of him can’t allow himself to hope that you’ve come back to him, not until you open the bedroom door and stand before him.

“I was hoping we could have a sleepover.” You say quietly and the edges of Dean’s mouth tip up into a smile as he pats the space alongside of him.

“There’s always room for you.”

He watches as you take out his old Navy t-shirt from the dresser before you begin to remove your clothes. He catches the flash of fresh scarring across your inner thigh and your gaze meets his.

“I’m doing better now.” You assure him. “I just needed a little time to get my shit together.”

“I guess I did too.” He says as you climb under the sheets alongside him.

He wraps his arms around you, drawing you close and you nestle into his chest, fitting perfectly against him, the way you always do. He’s missed this, the nights he gets to spend holding you, loving you. He wants more of this, more of you, more of Sean. He wants to live, to see Sean marry Roxie, to meet the children they’ll have, watch them grow. He wants to get five years down the line and celebrate your ten year wedding anniversary by making you his wife all over again.

“I’m going to have the surgery Isobel.” He says finally, his lips brushing over your temple. “I want to live, for you, for Sean and for me.”

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