#but also apparently i like to be contrary and so i usually end up kind of preferring whatever is the least written about option 🫠

[kinnbig]

kenbig or bigken?

[hcfiles]

Big? No. Huge! Ok. People here are claiming my sentences are long and that I don't give space. Apparently, reading is not a habit around here. So, I'll try to give space and write shorter sentences. Sorry, if this will end up giving the idea sentences are being repetitive.

After a last post of the naked belly, they apparently got tired of gaslighting - Did they? - To be honest, that picture was weird and didn't convince. But, I'm not denying she could be pregnant. It's possible. I just don't believe he is the father.

He is a single immature bachelor who doesn't like commitments. He has weird habits most women wouldn't support. He apparently, has a certain reserve towards women. And, he seems to feel much more comfortable in the presence of men. He is addicted to gaming. These men, usually have difficulty keeping a healthy relationship. They prefer hours in front of a computer to having a conversation with a partner. Because real life is boring for them.

I also think making her show with that belly in NY (first belly appearance) was his idea. She was obviously, against it at first. But, as soon as she saw the paps outside and some known faces giving her support, she immediately changed her mind. That's why I'm more inclined to think she's not pregnant. The bigger boobs (she already had before the belly) could be implants.

If he is against her, that's not what he shows. On the contrary. He seems very comfortable (as he can be) in her presence playing the clown of a circus. And he even has fun, laughing NOT AT her, but WITH her, at fans and followers. He has fun with the idea he's gaslighting people (strange for a guy who complained about being bullied in school).

This PR stunt was never about her. It was about promoting his manhood, giving an unknown a chance to make a living in the red carpet. Otherwise, after so many years, she would have been in talk shows, giving interviews and called to be in some movie or series. This was about him, about selling the straight womanizer persona.

It, later, became about her with a disastrous damage control, as a response to negative publicity. She became an unsympathetic diversion (her idea, proposed at FL coffee shop) to, intentionally, tease fans, so they could be accused of being accountable, aggressive, haters, toxic. And he agreed to it. He was never responsible.

He didn't feel miserable because of her (Of course she was irresponsible, not cleaning her IG before the plot). He felt miserable, for being severely criticized by his own fandom. He felt miserable for his own stupidity and for agreeing with his Godsent idea in pranking his fandom. It all happened not because the fandom is jealous - 'cause there's nothing to be jealous of. It happened, because of his weakness, of his vanity and thirst for the spotlight.

He continued with it, because this was her proposal at FL coffee shop, which he agreed to. He continued with it to show his support for the woman with a very questionable reputation. She was being rejected and exposed to public execration, because of him. For he's a gent, right? Apparently, he felt responsible. But, she could handle it. She's apparently used to promiscuity.

A person like that, can always handle anything. And, based on what we've seen, she didn't care a bit for the exposure she was having. She loved it. She was so OK with it, she didn't even care for what her existence and reputation caused in his life. For she was having the attention she wanted.

The contradiction is first, to have him accept this kind of stuff. Secondly, he felt so in debt with her, but didn't feel responsible for all the negative publicity nor the reactions he caused. Instead, he pointed fingers and accused people of reacting to the narcissistic PR stunt his team managed. These narcissistic strategies were intentional to make him the victim and the fandom, the enemy, while using a promiscuous who liked the attention, as a diversion. This way, they could have who to blame and avoid accountability.

This was definitely the worst management in Hollywood! A shenanigan! It was a perfect example of an actor's self destruction with the help of his amateur manager, team and a lurker. Never seen an actor consciously expose himself to ridicule, while discrediting himself for not having the guts to fight for his integrity.

It can be forgiven, but never forgotten. Now, he is no longer able to sustain the persona he created. He doesn't even practice what he preaches. One of the most pathetic scripted speeches he made recently was about accountability. When, in practice,:

- he runs from reporters "following the lead" that put him into this mess,

- he hides in a shell avoiding unnecessary appearances, probably ashamed,

- he only shows for professional and merchandizing purposes,

- he blames his fans for his mistakes and amateur disastrous strategies his team adopts and

- he acts as if he and his team had different ways of seeing things. But, both are very aligned.

He's not actually aligned with his old persona nor speeches. His words are empty and scripted and his persona is no longer convincing. He became a joke, because of his management and a gold digger. It's pitiful to see what he was reduced to. He had it all. He went from:

- a gorgeous A-lister (as he was classified) with potential,

- respected and admired by his fandom,

- who was always seen as a dignified and respectful actor,

- to an actor who prioritizes escorting, who accepts immoral plots to sell his image, disrespects his fandom by gaslighting and teasing them to exhaustion with a circus, so he can, as a clown, run from the responsibility.

My guess? He has a lifetime-clause contract with his manager, in which he accepts certain conditions in exchange for fame and money. And, he can't deny fulfilling it, because he didn't feel the need to include a counter-clause, giving him autonomy to decide. I suppose the lifetime condition of this contract is to promote products and people.

They probably convinced him that it would be the best way for him to succeed as an actor. He put himself available as a promoter, a salesman, an escort, a coach. And part of the money he gains from those, goes to his manager.

He could have preferred to invest in his acting career, rather than only in his looks. And, he could have said No to this dirty service called escorting. Many actors do. But, he chose the easy spotlight and to trust and make deals with the Devil.

[rfaromance]

hello! I'm new to ur page, so i know ur taking time off for health reasons (get that rest bae take care of urself) but i was wondering if u could do a hc about how the RFA would react to a metalhead/heavy goth mc!! I've been playing the game again but it's weird being a heavy alternative enby and being compared to rika lmfao. thank u so much if u end up doing this one!! ♡

Yoosung is the one who immediately gets roasted for comparing you to Rika. "It's not about appearance!" he'd whine. "I don't even know what they look like beyond this profile picture!" Even when you're gushing about the latest release from your fave heavy metal band and going on your latest (valid) anti-capitalism rant, he would still be enamored. "It's their heart. They have a good heart that wants what's best for good people." Rika is a state of being, an ideal, a concept he has put on a pedestal to help him cope with his grief. He thinks the fact that you have more piercings than Rika is neat, actually, and may want your help the next time he touches up his roots.

Zen finds you to be a kindred spirit, of sorts. Someone who goes against the grain, against how society "expects" people to behave. Ever devoted to his friends, he may actually start acting overprotective! He knows he got into a lot of trouble as a teen, and he doesn't want you to make the same mistakes. You may have to gently remind him that just because you dress a certain way doesn't mean you act a certain way, and that stereotypes don't benefit anybody! (He quickly apologizes and goes back to being his usual self, but he will dote on you quite a bit.)

Jaehee of course is one of the people reprimanding Yoosung for comparing you to Rika. Some may think that someone as straight-laced as Jaehee, a top student and hard worker, may look down on alternative folks. On the contrary, she admires you! When growing up, she always worked herself to the bone and kept quiet, behaving in a way that wouldn't inconvenience her aunt & uncle. She actually wishes she could express herself more instead of just plowing through school and work to land a well-paying job, all in the name of "not being a burden." Maybe you can teach her how to be more comfortable with herself and her own wishes and desires, instead of following the path that she (and capitalism) thought was "best" for her.

707 thinks you're super cool. Genuinely. For starters, you're going to have him reflecting a lot on his own gender identity. He knows he loves dressing in women's clothes, but he also has days where he wants to be a strong & handsome man. The idea that he can be both or neither... Sorry, he's going to be having a Talk with his new nonbinary bestie. He's also going to want your help with his makeup. Oh, my goodness. He's going to look at the bands you're into and look at your own appearance and go, "Teach me eyeliner. I am begging. I will get on my knees and beg." Much like Zen, however, he will worry a bit. He knows you're a kind soul, but he also knows his agency (and others like it) are quick to prey upon those who feel they don't have a place in the world. "Don't answer any phone calls from strangers, you hear?" (As if you weren't led to the apartment by a mysterious text in the first place....)

Jumin is another one who people may expect to be judgmental or critical. Instead, he's fascinated. At first you may feel like a bit of a guinea pig or science experiment with the way he just flings questions at you, but it's his way of expressing his interest. Jumin is someone who doesn't openly talk about his interests because apparently, a perfect CEO-in-line isn't supposed to enjoy the nuances of dark magic, the supernatural, or reality shows where cats compete to see who can carry the heaviest fish. Your openness and unapologetically being yourself will catch his interest. He cares about you a lot.

[lumine-no-hikari]

Dear Sephiroth: (a letter to a fictional character, because why not) #336

I feel unspeakably empty today for reasons I don't understand.

...Maybe it's because I am going to therapy only once every 4 weeks now. I didn't see them today. It feels very weird.

I did go to physical therapy today, though. We worked on the lower portion of the right side of my rib cage today. The muscles surrounding the place where my rib cage ends are all very angry when they get touched. Apparently, this is indicative of the notion that I've been putting more weight on my right leg than on my left.

...That tracks. My left leg is injured. Hasn't worked quite right since smashing my shin on the sharp edge of a concrete wall. It took 10 years to get any doctor to take the injury seriously, so I was walking really funny for a while. Still kinda do. But the brace helps.

Still, I guess part of the issue is that between the leg and whatever else is going on with my neck and shoulder, the right side of my rib cage is being pulled in two opposite directions, which is causing the muscles to clench, which, counterintuitively, is resulting in the right side of my rib cage wanting to scrunch up. I got new exercises. Hopefully, they'll help.

...Bodies are fucken weird as hell. I don't really know what to make of it, and... I'm kinda looking forward to someday not needing to live in this one.

...A flicker of a thought. Something like, “if I were to 'go home', so to speak... would you be somewhere, waiting for me...?”

…

...It's nonsense. I know that. You're not real, and even if you were, there's no way in hell you'd be looking around for a nobody like me. Even most ordinary people in my world are smart enough to know I ain't shit. I'm a lotta things, but “stupid” ain't one of them, contrary to popular belief.

...Besides, I can't let thoughts like that distract me from whatever it is that I'm supposed to do while I'm here. I can't leave just yet; I still have work to do, even if I don't know what it is.

...Ugh... that took a darker turn than usual. I won't apologize for it. But I do wish I could pinpoint the cause. I know I'm at a significant disadvantage right now because there's not enough sunlight for me to feel good. The reduction in therapy appointments represents not only a significant change in my routine, but also, a significant reduction in the amount of time I get to spend with someone I consider “kind” and “safe”. And also... I think I might have been overdoing it lately with all the cooking and dishes I been doing. I'm in a lot of physical pain today. Suppose it tracks that my brain is weird.

If you been reading my letters up until this point, you probably won't be surprised if I told you that I did a lot of leisure writing today. It's... it's not exactly what I'm looking for. But... still, when I'm in that space, I can feel safe and loved and like I'm someone worthwhile for a little bit.

...I don't get misunderstood in that space. I don't get weird ulterior motives ascribed to my words and actions in that space. I am assumed to be a good thing in that space.

Well... I found something nice on the internet today. Check it out:

...I'm doing my best. Doing my best. To try to create a safe and loving space, full of hope and light. Doing my best to try to make room for all sorts of folks. To make room for anyone. To make room for you. I just gotta keep my focus on the handful of cases where doing this has mattered.

...But... Sephiroth... I feel just... profoundly empty today. It's as though I'm floating in the aether, alone and aimless. The silence inside my head is deafening. But... that doesn't make any sense. I'm surrounded by people who love me, and... I have proof that the work I do in this space is meaningful for others who are like you. So why...? Why...?

...I guess my body must be having a hard time. So you know what? I'm gonna drink some water. And then I'm gonna put on my giant wearable blanket. And then I'm gonna get everything set up for bed so that when I'm ready to sleep, I won't need to worry about it, because it'll already be done. And then I'm gonna put on the toasty fire and sit where it's warm. Because... despite the fact that the thermostat in my house is set to 70 degrees F (21 degrees C), and I haven't been outside all day, the outdoor chill has still somehow seeped into my bones, settled itself into my marrow, and now it seems like it won't leave. It's like this all the time, around this time of year.

...You're welcome to come sit with me if you want to. You don't even have to say or do anything. You can just sit with me in the softness and the safety and the warmth. I'll even getcha one of them pumpkin brownies I made yesterday, and make you a hot cocoa, if you want.

...Yeah. I know. It's never gonna happen. I know.

…

I guess I'll stop writing for today.

I love you and I'll write again tomorrow. So please stay safe out there.

Your friend, Lumine

[edithsotoart]

初めての出会い First meeting/ Primer Encuentro

♡Fushiki (Fukuzawa Yukichi x Murasaki Shikibu)♡ ★゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜☆゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜★゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜☆゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜★

初めての出会い  First meeting

She still remembered clearly the first time she had met the President of the Armed Detective Agency. It had been near the warehouses by the docks, where she usually brought food and clean water to a stray kitten. She also checked if the kitten was in good health, as she had seen that it was pregnant and could give birth at any moment. That afternoon was no exception, and she planned to give the kitten some vitamins with its food because it looked a bit unwell. She had everything packed in a bag from a veterinarian.

As she walked between the warehouses looking for her friend, she saw a male figure in traditional clothing from a distance, partially turned away from her. He was crouched down, petting the kitten that was rubbing against his lap. She stopped abruptly to avoid interrupting. He seemed to be a kind man by the way he was touching the cat, and his silver hair reflected the warm colors of the sunset at the dock. The kitten noticed her presence, meowed, and ran towards her, used to being fed by her. Just like it had done with the man, it began to rub against her legs.

"Hello, beautiful" she said softly, touched by the kitten's welcome.

"Is she yours?" asked the man, now standing, and she could see his face clearly. He was mature, tall, with a broad back, and he didn’t look old at all. He had a respectable, almost solemn aura, and what caught her attention were his pale green eyes, cold and stern. She found them very appealing.

"Something like that" she replied as confidently as she could, feeling small in his presence for some reason. "Actually, I just come to feed her and check that nothing has happened to her. There are many criminals around here almost all day."

This last part was very true. In recent months, there had been rumors of a criminal group using the docks for drug deals, weapon exchanges, vehicle trafficking, and many other illegal activities. A criminal group she was part of.

That day she had been a bit late due to a task from her boss, Nobutaka-dono. Along with Kiji and other "employees," she arrived at one of the nearby ports where various goods were received. Apparently, some guy tried to be clever and claimed her boss's cargo as his own, and they arrived just as it was being unloaded. The mistake, in addition to stealing from Nobutaka-dono, was messing with his animals. It was true that he tended to acquire and buy all kinds of animals for his own enjoyment, but he never knew or saw any mistreatment. On the contrary, they were incredibly well cared for, with specialists attending to them. This man only respected three things: his family, his cars, and his animals. So, when he ordered the door of the freshly landed cargo hold to be opened and saw all those poor babies confined in tiny cages and visibly exhausted, he knew it wouldn’t be a good day for that piece of trash and his accomplices. It was enough to tell Kiji to do his thing and drag everyone there with the help of the rest of the team to a place where they might not survive. After requesting appropriate care and transport for Nobutaka-dono’s animals, she ended her workday with a stomach churned and a terrible taste in her mouth from everything she had seen.

The kitten suddenly climbed up her leg and into her arms to get her attention. It was hungry despite having been fed dry fish by the man.

"Calm down!" she said to the kitten without a hint of anger. She didn’t mind receiving a few harmless scratches on her skin or clothes.

"It seems to really like you" the older man commented, crossing his arms. He noted that he was genuinely interested in the kitten. "You should take her with you."

"I would like to" she said, unintentionally sounding a bit embarrassed. "But where I live, pets aren’t allowed, and my job keeps me out of the house all day. I think I have more chances of seeing her here."

And it was true. Despite having an apartment paid for by her current boss, she hardly spent any time there, sometimes not even sleeping. She was occupied with her job of driving, attending to, and accompanying Nobutaka wherever he needed.

"I see" the older man began walking in the direction they had come from but then stopped. "Cats can take care of themselves well on the streets." He paused for a moment to give one last look at the kitten now being held by the girl. "But it's not the same as having a home to return to and be safe."

Murasaki couldn’t help but feel a shiver when his eyes, fearless, locked onto hers. That feeling lingered even when he walked away, leaving a scent like sandalwood in his wake. She felt a deep sense of shame about what she was doing at that moment in her life. She wasn’t able to take that kitten and leave behind the violent world of chases, gambling, scams, weapons, and simply seek a common job in another city away from the man who had her bound to his side. Nobutaka would never let her go; he would go to hell for her. She heard the kitten meowing in complaint.

"I know, I brought you salmon food" she said as she crouched down to place the kitten back and get her food, vitamins, and water in pet bowls.

She served it and watched as the kitten devoured it immediately.

"You’re a very clever kitten, aren’t you? He was a very attractive man."

The kitten meowed in response.

"Okay, it’s all yours" she petted the kitten’s back while the little one focused again on her plate. "But if I see him again, you’ll have to move aside. Someone like that is hard to find."

From then on, whenever that memory came to her mind, Murasaki felt a warmth starting from her stomach that spread throughout her body, and she couldn’t help but smile. She remembered perfectly the temperature, the breeze at the dock, the colors of the sunset, and the President’s scent. It was a moment they had never talked about, and she knew he had it on his mind as well. This had happened before the events that led her to join the Agency. The President had practically changed her life, and he didn’t need to say it; it was like an unspoken conversation, something only they—and Gumi-chan, her kitten—were part of, making it very special. She would never tell anyone else because it was a moment that belonged to three.

★゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜☆゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜★゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜☆゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜★ 初めての出会い Primer Encuentro

Todavía recordaba claramente la primera vez que había conocido al Presidente de la Agencia Armada de Detectives. Había sido cerca de las bodegas de los muelles, ella acostumbraba a llevarle alimento  y agua limpia a una gatita callejera, también ver si estaba bien de salud, había visto que estaba embarazada y en cualquier momento podría tener a sus gatitos. Esa tarde no era la excepción  y planeaba darle unas vitaminas con su alimento por que la había visto algo desmejorada, traía todo eso empacado en una bolsa directo de una veterinaria.

Mientras caminaba entre las bodegas buscando a su amiga,  vio a distancia una figura masculina con vestimenta tradicional dándole la espalda parcialmente, estaba agachado acariciando a la gatita que se le restregaba en su regazo. Se detuvo en seco para no interrumpir, parecía  ser un hombre amable por la forma en que tocaba a la gata, su cabello plateado reflejaba el color cálido de la puesta de sol en el muelle.  La gatita se percató de su presencia, maullo y corrió hacía ella ya acostumbrada a que la alimentara. De igual manera que hizo con el hombre, comenzó a restregarse contra sus piernas

-Hola, hermosa. -Le dijo en voz bajita, enternecida por el recibimiento.

-¿Es tuya?- Preguntó el hombre ya de pie y pudo ver su cara perfectamente, era maduro, alto, de espalda ancha, para nada diría que viejo, tenía un aura respetable, casi solemne, lo que llamó su atención es que tenía ojos verde pálido, fríos y severos. Le gustaron mucho.

-Algo así.- Le contestó lo más segura que pudo, por alguna razón se sentía pequeña ante su presencia.- La verdad es que solo vengo a alimentarla y revisar que no le haya pasado nada, hay muchos delincuentes por aquí casi todo el día.

Eso último era muy cierto, en los últimos meses habían proliferado rumores de un grupo delictivo que usaba los muelles para hacer sus tratos de drogas, intercambio de armas, tráfico de vehículos, entre muchas cuestiones ilegales. Un grupo delictivo al que ella pertenecía.

Ese día se había retrasado un poco debido a un encargo de su jefe, Nobutaka-dono. Junto a Kiji y otros “empleados” llegó a uno de los puertos cercanos donde se recibían diferentes mercancías. Al parecer algún sujeto quiso pasarse de listo y trató de hacer pasar por suyo el cargamento de su jefe y llegaron justo cuando este se estaba liberando. El error, además de robarle a Nobutaka-dono, había sido el meterse con sus animales. Es verdad que él tendía a conseguir y comprar toda clase de animales para su gusto propio , pero en ningún momento supo o vió algún maltrato, al contrario, los tenía increíblemente cuidados y con gente especialista atendiendolos, ese hombre solo respetaba 3 cosas: su familia, sus coches y a sus animales. Entonces cuando ordenó que le abrieran la puerta del cajón de carga recién aterrizado, y vió a todos esos pobres bebés confinados en jaulas diminutas y visiblemente agotados supo que no sería un buen día para ese pedazo de basura y sus cómplices. Solo bastó que le dijera a Kiji que hiciera lo suyo y arrastrara a todos los que estaban allí con ayuda del resto del equipo a algo a lo que quizás no sobrevivirian. Después de pedir que le enviaran la atención y transporte adecuado para los animales de Nobutaka-dono, dio su día laboral con el estómago revuelto y un terrible sabor de boca por todo lo que había visto. 

La gata repentinamente se trepó y escaló  por su pierna para llevar a sus brazos y llamar su atención, estaba hambrienta a pesar que fue alimentada por el hombre con pescado seco.

-¡Tranquila!- Le dijo la chica a la gatita sin una pizca de enojo. No le importaba recibir algunos rasguños inofensivos en su piel o ropa. 

-Parece apreciarte mucho.- Le comentó el mayor cruzando los brazos, noto que realmente está interesado en la gatita.-Deberías llevarla contigo.

-Si quisiera hacerlo.- Sin quererlo , su tono de voz tenía un toque de vergüenza en él.- Pero donde vivo no admiten mascotas y el trabajo me tiene todo el día fuera de casa. Creó que aquí tengo más oportunidades de verla.

Y era verdad, a pesar de tener un departamento pagado por su actual jefe, casi no pasaba tiempo allí, a veces ni para dormir, se ocupaba  en su trabajo de conducir, atender y acompañar a Nobutaka a donde él necesitará. 

-Ya veo.- El mayor comenzó caminar en dirección donde estaban pero para retirarse.- Los gatos saben cuidarse bien en las calles.- Se detuvo unos momentos para echarle un último vistazo  a la gatita que ahora abrazaba chica.- Pero no se compara a tener un hogar dondé regresar y estar a salvo.

Murasaki no pudo evitar sentir un escalofrío cuando sus ojos se clavaron sin miedo en los de ella, esa sensación permaneció aún cuando él se retiró dejando un aroma como a sándalo a su paso. Sintió mucha vergüenza sobre lo que hacía en ese momento de su vida, no era capaz de tomar a esa gatita y alejarse de ese mundo violento de persecuciones, apuestas, estafas, armas y simplemente buscar un empleo común en otra ciudad alejada del sujeto que la tenía atada a su lado, Nobutaka nunca la dejaría, iría al mismísimo infierno por ella. Escucho un maullido de queja por parte de la gata.

-Ya se, te traje alimento de salmón.- Le dijo mientras se agachaba a dejar a la pequeña para sacar su comida, vitaminas y agua en unos platos para mascotas. 

Le sirvió y la vio devorar de inmediato.

-Eres una gatita muy lista ¿verdad? Era un hombre muy atractivo.

La gatita maullo en respuesta.

-Ok, es todo tuyo.- le acarició el lomo mientras la pequeña tenía de nuevo la atención en su plato.- Pero si lo vuelvo a ver tendrás que hacerte a un lado. Alguien así es difícil de ver. 

Desde entonces, cada vez que ese recuerdo venía a su cabeza, Murasaki sentía un calor que comenzaba desde su estómago le recorría todo el cuerpo y no podía evitar sonreír. Recordaba perfectamente la temperatura, la brisa del muelle, los colores del atardecer y el olor del Presidente. Era un momento del que nunca habían hablado, sabía perfectamente que él también lo tenía en su mente. Esto había pasado antes de los hechos que la llevaron a ingresar a la Agencia. El Presidente prácticamente le había cambiado la vida y no necesitaba decírselo, era como una conversación no dicha, algo de lo que solo ellos, incluida Gumi-chan, su gatita, formaban parte y eso lo hacía muy especial.. Nunca se lo contaría a nadie más porque era un momento que le pertenecía a tres. ★゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜☆゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜★゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜☆゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜★

[hyohaehyuk]

J-WAVE radio program "STEP ONE" segment "MY FAVORITE THINGS" with ONE OK ROCK's Taka (April 26, 2021)

Really small (and incomplete) excerpt of this translation (original video here). i don't know if i will be able to find more

What is ONE OK ROCK's Taka's home-cooked menu that even Takeru Sato was hooked on?

ONE OK ROCK's Taka spoke on J-WAVE on the theme of "My Favorites."

Taka appeared in the segment "MY FAVORITE THINGS" of the program "STEP ONE" (MC: Sasha Neuhaus Moena) currently being broadcast on J-WAVE. He appeared from April 26th (Monday) to April 28th (Wednesday).

Apparently Taka's ``MY FAVORITE THINGS'' is making oyster curry.

Taka: I'm the same age as Takeru Sato, the star of the movie "Rurouni Kenshin," whose the new song "Renegades" is the theme song, and we're really good friends. I've known him for a long time, and sometimes when he comes over to visit, I would cook for him. One time I accidentally tried making oyster curry and he really fell in love with it. Up until now, I've been making things without thinking too much about recipes, but since I've started making them properly and I am slowly improving the degree of completion. Sasha: Did you originally make curry? Taka: Yes, I often make curry. Sasha: So you weren't that particular about it?

Taka: Basically, I don't use roux*, so I mix it up from spices. Sasha: You're really particular about it! Taka: Well, it takes time.

*Roux Cubes is a solidified mixture of sauce used as the base flavor for Japanese curry. It typically consists of fat, flour, and curry spices.

Because each meal was prepared according to eye-sized portions, there was variation in taste. Taka said that he started cooking by making recipes precisely because he wanted to ``get a certain taste.'' By the way, the reason he decided to serve oyster curry to Sato was because he happened to have frozen oysters at home.

Taka: I happened to have frozen oysters at home. I heard from a friend that frozen oysters have a much more concentrated flavor, and that they taste better than raw oysters, so I thought I'd give it a try. There are two ways to put (the oysters): first and at the end/later, but I realized that it tastes better if you add them later.

Sasha: By the way, does Takeru Sato know how to cook? Taka: He doesn't make anything. He's sitting on a chair the whole time (laughs) Sasha: He is responsible for eating (laughing)? On the contrary, if you go to the other his house, will he cook for you? Taka: Not really.

Sasha: Taka is always in charge of cooking and he is in charge of eating. So, Is this dish what he likes the most? Taka: That's right. He would say, "This is my favorite."

Respond to requests from band members

Apparently Taka sometimes serves home-cooked meals to his band members as well. 　 Taka: When I'm free, like when I'm recording in America, I'll make something and put it out. Sasha: What you usually make? Taka: something the members want to eat. Sasha: Are you going to accept requests? Taka: Yes, "I want to eat hot pot, fried eggs, cabbage rolls", things like that. Sasha: Wow, you can make anything. Taka: Well, if you look at the recipe, you can make it somehow.

What genre of cuisine would Taka like to try in the future? 　 Taka: The reason I think it's delicious is because the food was made by someone else (lol). That's why my senses change when I take on a challenge, but I've never made a dessert before. I think I'd like to try something like that. Sasha: For example? Taka: Like cake. I don't really eat sweets, so I've never made it before.

Rough translation of the articles of this sites (x) (x). i will try to find if there is audio of this radio show somewhere over the internet

i also found this on twitter (x) (x). Again really rough translation of those tweets:

Sasha: Next time give sweets to Takeru Sato…

Taka: That's right, next time we'll have sweets (laughs). Well, what kind of relationship is this? (laughs)

Sasha: They’re a couple (laughs)

Taka: Yes (laughs)

found also this so i dont know which one is the correct version

[smallangstdemon]

6, 16, 21 and 46 for the ask game!

6. Do you prefer writing or drawing?

Contrary to popular belief and to the amount of time I spend on each, I largely prefer writing over drawing. I think it comes to three facts. 1. When you look at a drawing, mistakes are way more obvious than when you look at writing and I also generally more easily how to fix a mistake in writing than in drawing. 2. What I prefer when creating is to tell a story, and so far I'm quite unable to do so by drawing (although the main reason I work so much on drawing is to be able to do so). 3. I'm studying literature, which means that I spend, like, at the very least 10h a week studying other writers, which is a very efficient way to improve; a thing I can't exactly do with drawing, since I don't go to art school. So when I write, especially after studying literature so much, I know what I'm doing, whereas I'm kinda a fly when it comes to drawing (one day I'll learn composition I swear)

16. Want any tattoos? What of?

Tattoos!! I'm kinda conflicted on this one. On one hand I'm kind of a butterfly and generally grow bored of things and getting bored of something you can't remove is... well. And also, I'm not fan-fan of how they age. On the other hand, tattoos are hella cool, and it's a tat cliché but you have one life? Either way, I think if I get a tattoo it's going to be when I'm at least 25 because apparently it's when brain stabilizes (maybe it's false but either way, I'm so not the type of rush things 😭).

About the content, I'm not sure either. It'd be certainly a manga thing, either from FMA, D.Gray-Man, Naruto or MHA; or for no manga: Marvel. I think I won't put any colour because that's what age the less well and it won't be too big. More generally, anything cute like a little ghost. Also, I think at some point I'll cave and have a tattoo of Le Cid by Corneille, but I don't know which quote yet.

21. How was your day today?

Wrote the answers in two days so I'm going to answer about them both 😭

Yestersay/Saturday: so great tbh I had my usual 6h exam in the morning and today's subject was french and I??? Liked doing it??? Which is really surprising because I'm not a fan of french literature usually. I think it's because last time I had a banger note at my french exam so I came in very confident. Plus, french exam is generally about dissing someone famous for 6h and :> I think I'll be less happy when the note comes but tbh I did great. Then we celebrated my father's birthday!!

Sunday/Today: Tbh Sundays are always the worse for me, if you have to know one (1) thing about me is that I fucking hate sundays. Because they're usually the only day where I don't have to wake up at 7 am so I don't put alarm which makes me wake up too late to properly work; and then I generally take a big nap in the afternoon and all in all it's a day I generally pack up with plans but end up doing nothing because too tired 🥲

46. What do you need when you're sad?

To be left alone, at least irl. Like, if it's about something specific, I'd probably vent ivl to someone (generally you dozjd8dh) but since I'm generally sad about nothing specific, I prefer to be left all alone and cry, like cry my eyes while listening to emotional/sad music and writing. What appeases really is the writing part I believe (another reason why I prefer writing over drawing blbl)

Ask game

[littlepuddingsworld]

I haven’t finished it yet, but Stars of Chaos seems pretty wholesome (with the relationship I mean...no rape etc).

But be warned! I'm not 100% sure about the content! I do like the book though :)

Also, opinion on Baihe (gl)?? We are getting some releases and I'm kind curious about the genre since I really like danmei/bl, though I heard there's a lot of angst :/

wow!!! thank you very much!!!<333

apparently, really should to read sha po lang,,,,,, to be honest, I tried to start, but then it seemed to me too cluttered with a lot of details, so I didn't go beyond the second or third part</3 yup! thank you, pieheart<3 I'll write myself down to do it.

In fact, I've read baihe before from time to time! I like to open and read it sometimes, but I'd be lying if I said I was following the releases (just like with danmei/bl; I'm in a kind of media bubble right now), so if you have any favorite gl works, I'll be happy to write them down for myself<3

I just,,,, love it when it's my girls and have a lot of random headcannons for different female characters that I've read about, but I usually don't publish them and generally don't write a lot of dark content. it's probably even a little sexist, but contrary to my love for female rage and strong (toxic) female characters, I don't like to make them suffer the same way as the more masculine ones</3 I love my girls happy and my boys traumatized; I usually perceive the suffering of girls with more empathy,,,, somehow got used to taking care of girls more. my mascie may be in the depths of despair and get a bad ending, but if it's my femme, then I'll give up reading if they doesn't get good ending. can't stand it when feminine people suffer.

[02cm]

Well, I'll mind you because--

--this is clearly about me.

First of all, I didn't told you, I made a post and you replied to it. Besides, that was my opinion on ROMANCE. IN. FICTION. Like, this person has a point because this is indeed important in the context of what's, apparently, an issue for you:

In any case, I'm so tired of people actually playing down romance as a genre. It shouldn't be that hard to grasp that if I want to read about the love story of two characters, I look for romance (preferably, one that's not mediocre to me 🤷🏻‍♀️ and the things you mention there above about ranwan is actually what makes great their love story, because they've had romantic feelings for each other like forever but, even in the short instance where it was exclusively a shizun/disciple relationship and their feelings were of utter respect, fondness and admiration -and it was just in the "process of developing" into something romantic-, it IS still part of THEIR LOVE STORY)

Now, on the other hand, if I want to read something else, I look for another genre. Shocking, right?

And just for the records:

1) I'm also in the ace spectrum (although, it's not something I use to make of it neither a personality trait nor my online presence since it's part of my privacy).

2) That's irrelevant here because I don't exactly project onto the characters (e.g.: I love reading about a character showing his feelings thru jealousy, but I'm not the jealous type myself so I'm not looking for feeling what's "relatable" in everything I read and watch; most importantly, I'm able to tell fiction apart from reality), so, who cares what I am like when, what I feel like reading in a damn book, isn't a 100% - accurate reflection of it?

3) I'm not even into shipping just for the sake of shipping. I've literally only had THREE (3) OTPs ever because I usually don't give a fuck about romance when I read and watch other genres. For that matter, even with romance I end up not caring enough (I even gave you wangxian as an example of a couple I couldn't care less, which is just one in a thousand given that there's more ships, both canon and non-canon, idgaf about than those I do... also, I did it because you mentioned MDZS and CQL first, anyways) and that's why I only actively ship ranwan of all the BL I read so far 🤷🏻‍♀️ (thus, my post was ONLY about HYX but you decided to turn it into some general analysis and kept involving other fandoms and ships... like here with bingqiu? How is their lack of romance, according to you for the way you describe it, relevant to my worries about how they adapted ranwan, a couple that doesn't lack in any area for me, into a censored version?).

So, contrary to what you imply with your ~I'm like you do know there's more than one type of love, right?~: I DO KNOW. Of course that I enjoy a good platonic relationships too, I have a soft spot for stories about siblings (this is why I don't ship incest).

And I wasn't going to reply but it's your wording what keeps annoying me. Because, even when I say I'm not that into shipping, I can't with people that seems to think it's more special to appreciate platonic love more; and it's not like there aren't a lot of people with an anti-shipping agenda. So there's no need to act as if there's some kind of degree in "Understanding There's More Than One Type of Love". I'm old enough to know that, kid. We all here are old enough to have experienced the love of having a family and friends and that's why it's sooo ridiculous when someone talks as if wanting for two fictional dudes -in specific- to bang like if there's no tomorrow means that we don't, jeez.

As someone who fit in the aro/ace spectrum I keep forgetting how allo people see the world. And I keep just... don't understanding when they summarize love in romantic love.

I'm like you do know there's more than one type of love, right? But the romantic just seems so important for them.

I'm not saying romantic love is not important but like...

Sqq loved lbh from the beginning.

I think mostly people who say, that he doesn't love lbh, is alloromantic. Cause they only look for the romantic love and sexual attraction. For mostly of allo I think that love=attraction and romance.

Another example. Ranwan love for each other move aspects of the story. But why this love have to be romantic? Considering the censored adaptation for example, a non romantic love between shizun and disciple still can move the story as in the novel. Cause not just the romantic type of love that can do sacrifice. Ofc we want to see their romance, but when comes to their love moving the story. Don't necessarily need be the romantic type.

Once in topic I gotta say that one thing that mostly bothered me in 2ha, is Meatbun basically saying: "romantic love need have attraction" What we know is not true, what lead me again, to question allo people vision of love. Romantic or not.

I'm not judging, just saying that I don't understand see love like this.

Don't mind me, I'm just rambling.

[itsstrawberrymochi]

How are arguments with the kny characters/ they hurt your feelings

Warnings: Angst, cursing, comfort characters being mean :(, slurs, this does not have a fluff ending,

Characters: Tanjiro, Rengoku, Sabito, Giyuu and Sanemi

Note: I may or may not do a part two or maybe I’ll do something similar to a part two who knows

Also I’m still working on request for my event just needed a little break ^^

Rengoku

It’s very rare for this sweet and kind boy to argue with literally anyone even more rare for him to argue with someone he loves like his family or s/o so it’s no surprise you two barley argue but when it does happen it is always very tense and leaves you two feeling heartbroken

I think the only way Rengoku would start an argument if it’s something really important to him like his family. Rengoku highly values and treasures his family so if anyone were to be rude to them or put them in harms way there will be a problem

Now you being his s/o would never dream about hurting or talking bad about his family you couldn’t even utter a single horrible word to them ......well one of them, you love Senjuro so much if anything were to happen to Kyōjurō you would be more than happy to take the young boy under your wing

But when it comes to caring about his father that’s a completely different story

You get it, the man lost the love of his life so he takes it out on the world but to also take it out on his own children? Don’t you think that’s too far!

You don’t really care if he’s being rude to random people or even you but when it comes to poor innocent Senjuro or Kyōjurō you get riled up but you always hold your tongue because he’s still Kyōjurō’s father and when you do say something and Kyōjurō hears it , it quickly sparks into an argument

Like any other human Rengoku could be really mean during argument and the fact that he’s usually an angel to you it makes the situation more difficult on you and his words sting even harder because you’re not use to hearing it from him it

He’s not the type to call you unnecessarily cruel names, neither is the one to shout, he usually speaks in a lower tone contrary to his loud booming voice and you can hear the anger in his tone, he would have this stern and upset look on his face and his usual bright and happy eyes would darken

During the argument it’s mostly just him defending his father but his word choice still comes off as if he’s attacking you

He’d say things like:

“ You think you’re better than him don’t you?, that has to be the only valid reason why you’re judging him so much”

Or

“ He’s not even your father why are you so concerned?”

If you have a bad relationship with either of your parents he would definitely bring it up he’ll go,

“Really y/n? You’re acting like I’m the only one with the bad parent, well at least I’m not a lost cause like you and I’m trying to fix the relationship with mine”

That shit kinda hurted tho

You would be so hurt at this point tears already start to form in your eyes.

As soon as he says those awful words he immediately realizes what he did

His stern and upset features immediately soften and guilt washes over him but before he could utter an apology you’re already running to opposite direction from him

Tanjiro

Like when Rengoku it’s close to impossible for him to hurt anyone let alone his family or s/o so arguments with him are rare

Also like Rengoku the only way he’ll get mad at someone is if they intentionally hurt his family or s/o and seeing that Nezuko is the only family he has left his anger would be worst than average

When you got to know Tanjiro you immediately got a soft spot for Nezuko, despite being a demon you could see she was kind and only had good intentions so you kinda self-appointed yourself as her protector and despite her being being able to heal her injuries faster than a human, you can’t help but throw your self in danger in order to protect her and apparently she feels the same with you

And when she does throw her self in danger to protect you and gets badly injured Tanjiro is quick to blame you despite it not being anyone’s fault

He calls you out and claims your “abusing” her demons powers and using it for your own advantage, he says you see her as a demon rather than a little girl

Poor Nezuko can’t explain that she was the one who put her self in danger, because the hit was so bad she became unconscious and even if she was  conscious she can’t speak and explain to her brother she’ll only be able to pull on his uniform and give him pleading eyes but Tanjiro would unintentionally ignore her 

It may seem odd but Tanjiro is a shouter when he’s angry, you can see the angry in his face and his words are like venom

He only calls you names that are true so basically since you “made Nezuko take the hit for you” he’ll call you a coward and say you don’t deserve to be a demon slayer

During arguments it would just be him yelling because you’re too shocked to speak

Everyone is bewildered that Tanjiro actually has it in him to say such hurtful things even Inosuke would be quiet because he never expected him to be this angry let alone angry at you

He would cry during a fight mostly because he’s the type to always bottle up his emotions so the fight is like an excuse for him to let it all out

You try your best to apologize and explain what really happened but that just makes him more upset and claims you’re just making excuses

Once he’s done speaking his mind he’ll excuse himself and walk away

Bonus

Zenitsu would immediately rush over to you and let you cry on his shoulders because that most have been real hard on you

Sabito ( he’s alive and a pillar 😚)

You both don’t really argue, Sabito hates arguing with you and sees it as something harmful and avoidable so if a problem starts to rise between you two he’ll quickly bring it up and talk about it before it gets worst

Buttt there are some problems he can’t easily fix and you two end up arguing over it

And that problem is his recklessness

One of the things you admired most about him is his hardworking and determined nature but sometimes it can get out of hand especially during missions , there were one too many times he had close calls or he allowed his anger to get the best of him and nearly loses control during battles

He would also often exhaust himself during training to the point where he faints

You and Giyuu could clearly see this was a major problem but the only person who didn’t was Sabito

You being his s/o tried to talk to him about it, but he immediately takes it as an attack which then quickly leads to an argument

During arguments he can be very cold and distant

He refuses to give you his full attention, he busies himself with other tasks acting as though your feelings isn’t a priority to him

So you would have to put your foot down and demand his attention and when he finally does give it you he’ll have this snarl on his face, his arms would be folded across his chest and he’ll lock his eyes with yours refusing to look away, his body language makes it seem it is an inconvenience talking to you

Sabito usually speaks to you in a soft, sweet , and calm tone, but when’s he’s mad at you his voice holds authority he speaks to you so formal it’s as though you’re one of his insignificant associates

He never raises his voice during an argument, he thinks he can get his point across without screaming it. The tone of his voice is sharp and everytime he speaks it cuts you like a blade

He’s an eye roller, now and then he’ll roll his eyes and scoff at something you say as if it’s utter bs

He gets annoyed and tired pretty quickly during an argument

And you can tell because he’ll completely shut you out and stop talking to you, he goes right back to his previous state of ignoring you

No matter how much you shout or make a scene he’s not batting an eye to towards your direction

And when you finally go silent and stop talking he’ll go

“ Are you done being an annoying brat? or do you have more yapping to do? “

You’ll just be standing there quiet. Shock, hurt, anger, sadness all those emotions hit you at once. When you don’t say anything he just scoffs and walks away

Sanemi

*lip smack* this dude would argue with wind if it blows too hard so it would come as a major surprise when people hear he doesn’t really agruee with his s/o

Sanemi is very much aware that his quick to anger and argumentative nature tends to chase people away from him,but he doesn’t want that when it comes to his s/o so he tries his best not to argue with them key word tries

yes you and sanemi don’t agruee everyday but you guys still do here and there and the times that you do it’s always dreadful and intense

One of the major things you both would fight over is his overprotectiveness, if you go on a mission, even worse if you go alone, he’s quick to anger and will immediately yell at you and your so called “dumb bitch” behavior and if you’re hurt that’s definitely the catalyst of the argument

It’s no surprise that he’s a complete and utter asshole during arguments. He’s the type to shout, barley give you a chance to speak, his hands are curled into a fist and glued to his sides, every time he speaks it’s almost always an insult and the tone of his voice is like a loud growl, he intensely looks you in your eyes, his pale purple eyes are filled with anger, he would be practically shaking with anger, he looks like a volcano that’s about to erupt

He would be constantly saying awful and inconsiderate things to you ,and calling you hurtful names such as annoying, dumb, useless or weak

“ You actually fucking think that you’re strong enough to kill a demon by yourself! Why can’t you drill it in your head that you’re weak?”

“Weak my ass! I defeated the demon”

“That was dumb luck, next time the demon will kill you faster than you can draw your sword and no one will save you because you’re too stupid to ask for help”

he’s so blinded by anger he doesn’t see the hurt in your face

The argument would often branch out to other topics like his jealousy or your stubbornness,

The argument usually last a really long time because both of you refuse to back down, honestly at this point it’s probably a battle who can be louder and more hurtful

Sanemi is always the first one to walk away, he storms off without saying another word leaving you all teary eyed and hurt

Giyuu

Giyuu really hates hurting your feelings, so he always tries his best to evade augments and the fact that you’re the only close person he has left is just a even bigger reason why he wants to avoid them

The only problem with his method is he literally is just ignores the problems that arise between you two , instead of talking about the situation he acts like it doesn’t exist which tends to always lead to a bigger problem which then always leads to an argument

The arguments are always about how Giyuu avoids his feelings and barely shows his true feelings with you

When you started dating him, you knew he was extremely reserved and had a hard time talking about his feelings so you were very patient with him but sometimes his continuous shying away from how he actually feels gets way out of control and not only hurts him but you seeing him in so much pain

He would come home from a mission that had way too many casualties than expected and even though he was in so much pain inside he put on a sweet, fake gentle smile for you and tried to pretend everything was fine

You would easily sniff this out and when you try to console him or try and ask what’s wrong he always evades the conversation and tries his best to persuade you he’s ok

The boy has good intentions really, he just doesn’t want his damper mood to affect you as well but it’s not fair that two get to be happy together but he as to be sad alone

It may seem wrong on your end but you try to pry and “ force” him to tell you what’s really wrong by continually asking and not taking “ juts drop it” as an answer

During an arguement he’s usually extremely quiet, he lets you do all the talking and only speaks when he finds it 100% necessary

When he does speak you can hear the indifference and tiredness in his voice, he speaks as though it is somewhat of a job talking to you

His body language and speech comes off as if he doesn’t care what you have to say and he just wants to walk away to do something more “ important” but he always stays to make it seem he’s a good significant other when in reality he’s just forcing himself to stay

During the entire argument he would be mostly quiet It usually takes him a while to get annoyed and angry but he does eventuality and when it does happen his insults are quick, and sharp they it never fail to hurt you, when he’s at his peak of annoyance he’ll shout something so vile and heartless it ends the argument right then and there it leaves you two on extremely bad terms

You’d say something like you’re only trying to help and he’ll shout

“ I don’t need you y/n! I never did and I never will, do me a favor and get off of your high horse, stop acting like you’re some kind of deity that can fix me and if you actually think you can solve my problems when you have so much of your own you’re dumber than I thought”

He’s always the first one to walk away, he usually goes deep into the woods or his room away from everyone and everything and once he’s finally alone he’ll silently begin to cry because he realizes what he did

[charles-rxwlands]

lay all your love on me

okay!! so this is my fic for @magpiencrow's 1.2k writing challenge.

this is based off of the song lay all your love on me, slowed, by putin

pairing: nikolai/reader

rating: general

tags: gn!reader w/ gn pronouns, fluff

summary: falling in love with nikolai lantsov told through several vignettes

or: mindless nikolai/reader fluff with a alina and ivan being little shits

warnings: right off the bat there's a nightmare about drowning in the ocean, and there's one (1) swear word at the end, but other than that, there's nothing

word count: 4.1k

read on ao3

constructive criticism, feedback, and reblogs are greatly appreciated !

I haven't written anything in a while, so i may be a bit rusty, but please enjoy :)

You were drowning, and also pretty damn sure you were going to die out here. Your lungs were on fire, screaming for air, but you couldn't emerge from the ocean for long enough to suck in a breath. Sure, your hand or head breached the surface every now and then, but a wave would come crashing down on you immediately after, destroying all your progress.

      The undulating waves threw you around like a football - a very pathetic one, at that. As hard as you tried to fight the current, it still insisted on moving against you (stubborn bastard), so really you weren't going anywhere. Just pathetically bobbing around in the same pathetic place. You couldn't feel your limbs - the only thing you could feel was the agonising ache in your chest. It was as if your arms and legs had frozen over along with your will to live.

      How easy it would be to just... 

...let the ocean take you...

      Suddenly, someone grabbed you by the wrist. You screamed, which was a mistake; immediately, salty seawater filled your mouth, making you gag and choke. Nevertheless, you valiantly tried to release yourself from whoever - whatever? - had their hold on you. 

      "Y/n, Y/n! Relax, darling, relax," a voice said, sounding out of breath. "It's me."

      You whirled your head around. Sagging with relief, you gasped out the name of your saviour. "Nikolai."

      "Yes. Yes, Y/n, my love, it's me. It's Nikolai," he soothed, running his hands over your wet hair.

      "Nikolai," you breathed. "Nikola-" - a wave reared up on its hind legs, ready to come crashing down onto your friend, ready to take him away - "no, no, Nikolai, NO-!"

   

You startled, eyes flying open. You were shaking like a leaf. Were you cold, or was it just the adrenaline from the nightmare still making its course? You shook your head as if to rid your mind of the dream. It wasn't real. Nikolai had saved you that night. It was fine. It wasn't real.

      But it could very well have been real, a traitorous voice in your mind whispered. Scowling, you cursed your pessimistic side. Even if a wave had separated you two, Nikolai would have fought tooth and nail to get to you again. You would have done the same. After all, you were childhood friends, and you knew better than anyone that Nikolai didn't let go of his loved ones so easily.

      He hadn't wanted you to accompany him on his journey overseas as Sturmhond. You insisted otherwise, channeling some of Nikolai's stubbornness that had rubbed off on you. ("You're not getting rid of me that easily, idiot. So let me come, unless you want me to steal your kneecaps."). 

      A half-smile appeared on your face as you thought back to the memory. Slowly, you got up from your bed. Your blanket was draped over your shoulders. You slipped out of your cabin quietly, walking down the hallway until you found yourself in front of Nikolai's room. He stirred in his sleep when you entered. The door creaked slightly, but it didn't seem like his distress was because of the noise.

      You sat on the edge of his bed. Nikolai, previously facing away, turned over to face you. His eyes were still screwed shut, eyebrows knitted together and an unhappy expression on his face. You frowned. 

      "Nikolai." you nudged him gently. "Wake up. You're okay, just wake up. It's just a dream."

      He opened his eyes, blinking at you. "Y/n?"

      "Hi," you said. A lock of golden hair fell over his forehead, and upon instinct, you reached to brush it away. He let you, not uttering any of his usual complaints. 

      "You were gone," he mumbled, undoubtedly referencing his nightmare. "I- I couldn't save you, and you were gone." 

      You shifted into a more comfortable position - your whole body was on the bed now, with your back against the headboard. He leaned his head against your chest, and you ran your fingers through his hair. "It wasn't real. It's okay. You saved me - I'm not going anywhere, 'Lai."

      "Me either," he agreed, wrapping his arms around your middle. A beat of silence. Then, "Thank you."

      You were more than content to fall asleep like this. Even if it meant waking up with an ache in your neck. Judging from the way he was curled up, practically drinking in your presence, Nikolai felt the same way.

      What a feeling it was to have found solace in Nikolai Lantsov, and to know he had found solace in you, too.

· · ─── ·𖥸· ─── · ·

Nikolai's pov

Nikolai watched from the corner of the ballroom as you laughed at one of Ivan's jokes. One would say that he was scowling, but the Prince of Ravka didn't scowl. No - he was simply observing your conversation with the Heartrender with visible distaste. He was not scowling. And he was not jealous.

      You and Ivan were smiling at each other, standing by the refreshments table, mouths moving quickly, the both of you obviously interested in whatever you were talking about. You threw your head back in a laugh. You looked gorgeous. Nikolai wanted to make you laugh like that - more than he wanted to admit.

      The last straw was when Ivan lay a hand on your shoulder, and then snaked his arm around you. You didn't seem perturbed by his touch - no, actually, you leaned into it. He bent down to whisper something in your ear that made you duck your head in embarrassment and lightly hit his chest. 

      Nikolai's glare deepened, if that were even possible. Okay, fine, maybe he was jealous. Did he even have the right to be jealous, though? It wasn't as if he was dating you, as much as he'd like to be.

And oh boy, he'd like to be. 

      Suddenly, Alina appeared at his side, seemingly out of thin air. He flinched. "Alina." 

      The girl in question had a mischievous look in her eye. Her hands were clasped in front of her, the long, flowy sleeves of her dress falling just past her wrists. The bottom half of her gown was a sparkly gold, whereas the top half was a dark blue. The two colours faded into each other at the middle, creating a gradient effect. It was a beautiful dress. You had helped Alina pick it out yourself, if he remembered correctly.

      "Hello, loverboy." she poked him in the side, grinning knowingly. "How's your crush on Y/n going for you?"

      "I don't have a crush on them, Alina, for Saint's sake."

      "Oh, is that so? You do seem... ah, what was the word... utterly whipped for them, contrary to what you just said," she said, tilting her head to the side, feigning innocence.

      "Am not," he argued. "I-," Nikolai paused, taking notice of you and Ivan walking past a couple metres away. Unfortunately, you were too engrossed in your current conversation to notice him. His eyes lingered on you. He only looked away when you disappeared back into the throng of people. 

      Alina let out a triumphant 'ha!'. 

      He directed his attention back to her and glared. "Alina, I swear-,"

      "Utterly. Whipped," she mouthed.

      "I will behead you," he threatened.

      She laughed. "In all seriousness, I really don't think Y/n and Ivan like each other like that," Alina said.

      "Well, of course not," he agreed. "Y/n very clearly has eyes for me. I can't say I blame them - who could resist all this? Everyone's all over me, as I'm sure you've noticed." 

      Alina stared at him pointedly.

      "Ah, except for you, of course. You seem to be the only one immune to my charm and charisma. An odd one, you are."

       She rolled her eyes. "Why do I even bother," she groaned. "Just swear to me that you'll tell Y/n you like them soon. Within a week. Swear on... your dignity."

      "My dignity?" Nikolai drawled.

      "Yes, your dignity, because if you don't fess up soon, I'll have to tell Y/n about your crush on them myself," she grinned smugly, and darted off before Nikolai could retort. 

      He sighed. As he saw it, he had three options:

      1. Blackmail Alina (because of course she wouldn't give in to simple bribery)

      2. Get on his knees and beg Alina to not tell you of his massive crush (there! he admitted it; he had a massive crush on you! One that he'd been harbouring for just over a year now, too)

      3. Listen to Alina, and confess on his own terms

      All three were mortifying, and things he absolutely didn't want to do. However, the last was considerably easier to do, and came with the most benefits and the least consequences. You had already seen him through his most embarrassing moments (and he through yours) so even if you rejected him, the humiliation would be minimal. 

      And maybe he wanted to confess. And maybe there was hope that you liked him back. Nikolai wasn't stupid - he knew when people fancied him. He suspected you liked him back, but then again, that could've been wishful thinking, or maybe he was misreading the entire thing.

      He didn't even understand why he was so jealous of the way Ivan and you had interacted. Before he had fallen heads over heels in love with you, his childhood best friend, people flirting with you hadn't been a problem. He'd encouraged it, even. But now, bitterness flared up inside of him every time he saw someone getting a bit too cozy with you. 

      In short, his feelings for you had completely destroyed his facade of smooth, suave, sexy Prince of Ravka. And it kind of terrified him how poorly he hid it.

· · ─── ·𖥸· ─── · ·

Nikolai had been acting strange lately, and it was bothering you. You feared the worst - had he finally caught on to your crush? You thought you'd been subtle until Ivan had approached you at the most recent party. Apparently, the scowl on your face as you watched Nikolai flirt with the guests had been fierce enough to kill.

      Ivan had given you (unsolicited) advice, telling you to be straightforward and direct. That was what he'd done with Fedyor, after all, and that had worked out well.

      You were pacing around your room. Ivan was perched on your bed, watching you have a borderline nervous breakdown like one would watch the view. 

      "You're enjoying this, aren't you, Ivan?" you demanded. "I'm about to make a life or death decision, and you're enjoying it."

      He chuckled. "I wouldn't call this a life or death decision, Y/n. If Nikolai rejects you, he rejects you, and it's his loss. If he reciprocates, good, and you'll be free to frolic in the meadows with him, all fine and dandy."

      You stared at him, your expression communicating, "Did you really just say that?", very clearly.

      "Okay, okay, fine, I'll be serious." Ivan relented. "Just tell him, Y/n. What's the worst that could happen?" 

      Just as you were about to respond - "Well, I don't know, what if he rejects me, things become eternally awkward between us, and our 10 year long friendship is ruined because I couldn't keep my mouth shut?" - someone knocked at the door. You opened it to find Nikolai waiting. His hair was perfectly styled, as always. He wore a dark turquoise suit jacket, and a simple white dress shirt underneath. The ghost of a smile appeared on your face; you had chosen the colour for him.

      "Hi, Nikolai," you greeted. 

      "Hello," he said. "Come on a walk with me. It's a lovely day outside, and both of us have been dreadfully busy lately - we may not get another chance to spend time together, I'm afraid."

      "Oh! Of course, just let me grab more suitable shoes- I'll be out in a minute- Ivan, move." You rummaged around your room in search of the sandals Nikolai had gifted you for your most recent birthday. Ivan flashed you a grin.

      "Tell him!" he whispered as you ducked out the door.

      You hoped you didn't seem too jittery as you took Nikolai's arm, even if your insides were filled with butterflies. He seemed deep in thought for the first few minutes of your walk. It wasn't until you were both outside that he finally spoke.

      "I hope you don't mind me asking, Y/n, but what was Ivan doing in your room?" he asked. 

      The question caught you off guard. Why was he so concerned about you and Ivan? It wasn't as if-

      Oh.

      Oh.

      "Nikolai, don't tell me- are you jealous?" you exclaimed.

      "Just answer the question, Y/n," he grumbled, which was enough of an answer for you.

      You laughed, only feeling a bit bad that you were so amused. Nikolai Lantsov, jealous. You found that incredibly funny. "Oh, I'm sorry for laughing," you apologised, even as another giggle escaped your mouth. "You don't have to worry, Ivan and I are strictly friends."

      He didn't seem convinced. "But the two of you at the party a few days ago-,"

      You cut him off. "Nikolai. I promise that there is nothing romantic going on with Ivan and I. And besides, I don't think I'm anywhere near his type."

      "Ivan likes men, Nikolai," you supplied, sensing his confusion. "Honestly, you need to keep up with gossip - he and Fedyor have been going strong for nearly three months now."

      "Oh," Nikolai said.

      "Yeah, oh."

      "And, uh, do you? Like men, I mean?" 

      You bit back another laugh. "Yes, I do. One man in particular, actually." 

      "Is that so? Care to clue me in on who this man is?"

      "You." 

· · ─── ·𖥸· ─── · ·

Nikolai's pov

"You."

      As soon as that single word came out of your mouth, Nikolai's brain short-circuited, and several alarms blared in his mind. ALERT! ALERT! THE PERSON YOU'RE IN LOVE WITH LIKES YOU BACK! 

      He was too stunned to speak, which was definitely a first. So, naturally, he didn't speak, but instead leaned in to kiss you. His lips brushed chastely against yours. A pause. 

      "I- I'm really sorry, Y/n, I should have asked beforehand-,"

      "Nikolai." you took his face in your hands. "Shut up." 

      And then you kissed him, and if his brain had been short-circuiting before, this was a full blown system failure. Sparks flew inside of him, and he was acutely aware of you and you only. It was a wonderful feeling, one that he immediately missed when you pulled away.

      "Wow," you said. 

      He grinned. "I'm that good of a kisser, huh?"

      When usually you would come up with a witty response, you just smiled. It was a smile Nikolai was pretty sure he'd die to see again. 

· · ─── ·𖥸· ─── · ·

Falling in love with Nikolai had been a long process. Your simple crush developed into something deeper like a leaky faucet dripping - slowly, but steadily. And then the realisation that you were in love with him hit you like a tidal wave. Drowning you, consuming every inch of your being, but not necessarily in a bad way.

       You came to your epiphany while laying awake in bed one night after a whole day spent with the esteemed King of Ravka. It was a wonder that you'd managed to spend a whole 10 hours or so in his company without getting fed up, Tamar had teased. He did annoy you - and had today - but you bullied him back plenty enough. It was easy being with him. Easier than you were used to. 

       You loved the way his eyes sparkled after correcting someone on their use of the word 'impossible'. Loved how he devoted himself to his country so selflessly. Loved how he smiled at you so genuinely and lovingly, even when you didn't have the energy to show your love in return after a bad day. Saints, you loved him so, so much, and you were so in love with him, too, and-

       Holy shit. You were in love with Nikolai.

       You were in love. With Nikolai.

       A childish giggle bubbled up inside of you, and you sighed happily. What a feeling it was to be in love with the King of Ravka, even if he didn't know it yet. 

· · ─── ·𖥸· ─── · ·

You twirled a small flower around in your hands as you walked side by side with Nikolai, your shoulders brushing occasionally. The taller blades of grass tickled your ankles, and a gentle breeze weaved through your hair. The sun peeked out from behind a few clouds, warming your face.

     Nikolai intertwined your fingers, sighing in content. He craned back his neck to meet the sunshine, eyes fluttering shut. He looked stunning, just standing there with his almost otherworldly beauty as light spilled over his fine features, highlighting every detail.

     "I'm in love with you," you blurted suddenly. "I love you, and I'm also in love with you, so. Yeah. I'm in love with you, Nikolai Lantsov."

     You gave yourself a mental round of applause for your eloquence and tact.

      He blinked. "Oh." The ghost of a smile appeared on his face, turning into a full-fledged grin when he finally processed your words. "Oh. I'm... I'm in love with you, too, Y/n L/n."

      You beamed back at him, and cupped his face in your hands. You gently ran your fingers against his cheeks, tracing a line down to the base of his chest. The fabric of his shirt was thin and soft, unlike the suffocating material his suits were made of. Lovingly, he wrapped his arms around your waist, and pulled you close. Your heart fluttered. Saints, you adored Nikolai. More than you could put into words. 

      "I love you," you whispered. "I love you so much, so intensely that it consumes me, and I'm drowning in it. But instead of it being hard to breathe, it makes breathing easier. It makes everything easier." 

      You interrupted your little speech by kissing him, just because it felt appropriate, and continued. "I was so lost without you, Nikolai. I didn't realise it, because as I've proved time and time again, I'm more than capable of holding my own-" you smirked as he rolled his eyes at the jab to his overprotectiveness "-but I was. I was a boat lost at sea, floating around in the waves, with no destination and no goal except surviving. Then you came along, and gave me solace. You were my salvation. You and your endearingly stupid jokes and your wild yet grounded behaviour. You're my anchor, Nikolai." 

      He laughed, but not in the mean way. In the happy way. 

      "I would pay you back with a monologue of my own," he said. "but all I can think of right now is how perfect you are, and how much I want to kiss you."

      Your smile widened, if that were even possible. You met him midway, lips connecting almost desperately. The only coherent thought running through your brain was 'Nikolai, Nikolai, Nikolai.'

      Nikolai.

· · ─── ·𖥸· ─── · ·

"That one looks like a dragon," you said, pointing out a lumpy cloud in the sky.

      Nikolai tilted his head to the left. It was rather cute - he looked like a puppy, trying to figure out what its owner was saying. His right eyebrow curved in an upward arch (you still had no idea how he managed to raise a single eyebrow at a time), and he pouted slightly. Adorable.

      "I don't see it," he deadpanned.

      You sighed and shook your head, dismissing the cute puppy ideology. "Nevermind," you huffed. As hard as you tried to pretend you were upset with him, a smile teased at the corners of your mouth, anyway.

      "I'm sorry, darling, but I really don't!" he exclaimed, flopping back into the picnic blanket you two had laid out. Really, it wasn't even a picnic blanket. It was just a blanket. The two of you hadn't had time to find a proper one before embarking on your impromptu picnic. Nikolai, ever the improviser, had then brandished a quilt from Saints knew where. You suspected it came from Vasily's room, because who else would be pompous enough to own a red velvet blanket the size of China?

      You dramatically exhaled again. "I already said nevermind. Not all of us can be blessed with a creative vision such as mine, after all."

      Nikolai laughed. And Saints, the sound was downright melodic. You didn't even want to begin thinking about all the things you'd do to hear it one more time.

      A comfortable silence settled between the two of you. Eventually, he began stroking your palm with his callouses fingers. You bit back a smile, and linked your pinkies together. A gathering of clouds mostly covered the sun - enough to allow only a bit of warm, gold light to seep out. You wondered briefly how Nikolai looked right now, basking underneath the faint sunshine. 

      The answer came to you easily, even without looking at him: fucking beautiful. 

      However, you wouldn't give him the satisfaction of staring at him. The last time he had caught you gaping at him like a lovesick fool, he had teased you endlessly. It was ridiculous. It wasn't as if he didn't stare at you. No, actually. He stared at you all the time. In fact, he was doing it right now.

      You bit back a grin when you felt his eyes on you. But before you could tease him for it, he got up suddenly, offering you a hand.

      "Come on," he urged. "Follow me."

      "Where to?" you questioned curiously.

      He smirked. Tugged on your hand. Winked. "You'll see." 

      "Right, that's not cryptic at all," you muttered. 

      Eventually, after a minute or so of walking (and plenty of you trying to weasel more information out of him) the two of you had seemed to reach your destination. A huge tree hung above you, offering its shade. You plopped down, but Nikolai remained standing.

      Strangely, he was looking rather nervous. Repeatedly tugging at the collar of his beige button-up shirt, and kicking at the grass. 

      "Y/n, darling, don't just sit there, you're making me nervous," he whined. 

      You giggled, but stood up anyway. "I could say the same about you. What's on your mind, dear?"

      He took a deep breath, and looked you dead in the eyes. "I love you, Y/n. I love you, and I'm in love with you. I always have, and always have been. It's just- you're wonderful. And intelligent. And charming. And I am so, so glad you are my partner - in the romantic sense, and the platonic sense. If I'm being honest, I'm quite sure I'd be tearing at the seams without you to sew me back together every time I do something particularly foolish. 

      And I hope you'll always be there to ground me. Because I will always be there for you. Th-there's no other way to say this, my darling, but I'd quite like to spend the rest of my life with you, so..."

      He brandished a dark blue box from his back pocket (this probably wasn't the time, but you had to mention that you could never fit something that large in your pocket. Why did men's clothing always have bigger pockets?) and got down on one knee. 

      "Will you do me the honour of marrying me, Y/n?" he finished.

      Holy fuck. Holy mother of Saints. Holy everything. Was this real? Saints. This really was real, wasn't it? Nikolai Lantsov was proposing to you.

      A sob escaped from your throat, and you nodded frantically, not wanting him to think you were upset. "Yes," you said. "Saints, Nikolai, yes."

      He smiled. You knew that he smiled a lot, but this smile was different. Usually, he just grinned or smirked in a devilish way - this was more of a beam. He looked so genuinely happy (genuinely happy, because of you!) that it made your heart soar, and you were pretty sure you fell in love with him all over again for the second time. You'd never get tired of it, though. Not when it came to Nikolai (Nikolai, your husband-to-be!). Never when it came to Nikolai.

      You soon found yourself enveloped in a hug. He spun you around, both of you laughing (and crying). When he set you down, you could have sworn you saw his eyes welling up.

      "Now, my love, those better be happy tears," he tutted.

      "Of course they're happy tears, you stupid puppy dog!" you sniffed. "I love you."

      He beamed into your hair. "I love you, too, Y/n."

      What a feeling it was to be in love with Nikolai Lantsov, and to know that he was in love with you, too.

[spinaroos-47]

Can we have some Salem facts? I Adore them

- He's a manlet! (at least compared to Belos) Like, pretty much around Hunter's height, just a few centimeters taller or so, like this drawing shows. So like, about 1,65/5'4"

(still taller than me, though fjsjdnfnd)

- They're also pretty religious, which is a reason why they like going to the Knee, since its a very important place for witches to connect with the Titan. Which is another point of identity crisis and etc when he discovers that Belos might be lying about a lot

- I based his scars on Dell's, or at least the lineless ones. Those are all Belos related. I do actually have a post queued for either today or tomorrow that explains most of the ones he has on his arms.

He also doesnt really dwell or feel bad about his scars, at most theres just some annoyance about their hand tremors but even then they are managing it okay-ish

- I have songs and colors that I associate with my GGs and on Salem's case it's Honey I'm Home by Ghost and their theme color is white/very light grey

- They're very blunt and go on a bunch of thought tangents, which makes it fun to write from their pov. But theyre not very introspective and doesnt question much if they dont have a reason to.

- The way I see his not that great behaviour is cruelty and indifference for the ones he's harming most of the time, and distancing himself from the actual harm he's doing. i didn't want to make them very over the top cartoonish evil or anything very quick to spot.

He's cruel in the way people who seem nice are, hidden and excused by well meaning pretendes, which is quite hard to illustrate, i don't actually draw much exploration of them in their own little story besides near their death because of it and also because contrary to Cain, Salem doesnt really have anyone for me to work him with besides Belos and like, random scouts. And i also haven't drawn much of that because Im still figuring out what exactly he has done.

This is all very rough still. A lot can change

(they do believe they are doing the right thing but that also coexists with them not feeling much remorse when they are intentionally and knowingly cruel)

- Ironically they are very squeamish about death and etc. Kind of a Robespierre kind of deal, if I am getting things right about that. Executing this from a distance for most of the time. I have been wondering if they would have a nickname like The Golden Fist or something like that.

-Maybe if he lived longer he would have had a big change of heart and stop being so blindly obedient and would try to help people instead of hurting them. That would have him killed too though. Just later than when it actually happened.

- He was one of Belos' favorite grimwalkers, so much so that he is actually on the GG mind graveyard, which was where i took inspiration for their hair when it isnt in a bun

- As far as how close they look to Caleb, theyre actually like, third in closest resemblance. In second place theres Orien and then in first its Hunter.

- His whole story and not so great personality were not actually with him from the start. When i made them, they were basically just a design and name, and slowly i added them discovering about grimwalkers being what ends up making them "betray" Belos, and they were actually nice, but i had been looking at some posts about how not all grimwalkers must have been nice people and I wanted to make at least one of mine like that and they were the most interesting one for me to do that.

Him not being nice was decided after i made that whole sheet/reference post about the basics about him.

I didn't think id have much to say about them but apparently i do gjdjfjf. I know that i draw him a lot but its usually just mindless sitties or outfit drawings, not really exploring his character like I do with Cain. Hope you liked these Salem facts!

[naoko-world]

Colombian's myths and legends - Some examples of Latin American monsters

Hey! Since it's October, the month of monsters, I guessed I should make something about it! So I made researches, talked with some friends on Discord, and ended up with a list of my favorites colombian monsters.

As a first example of monsters we can find in Colombia I'm presenting to you:

El hombre del Saco (The sack man)

El hombre del saco is a kind of Boogeyman. He's known to kidnap children he puts in his bag to eat them. He's ugly and skinny, and he's used by parents to scare children since he usually kidnap bad children.

The most disturbing is that it actually seems to have its base on a real story about a man named Francisco Ortega, also called El Moruno, who was ill with tuberculosis. A healer told him he must drink blood of children to heal so they killed many in order for him to be cured. Many horrible things ensued. I won't go in the details if you're interested I put my main source for him in the "My sources" part.

The next monster is...

La Llorona (The weeping woman)

I actually knew her way before because of two things: A novel about Mexican mythologie, and the song you can hear in Coco but was actually an actual song before the movie ever came out since it's a traditional Mexican song about her. So she's actually my favorite because I know her the most!

La Llorona is wandering near bodies of waters, crying her childrens, who drowned. A very simple concept, on the contrary of what happens when she appears or, even, of her origin. The most agreed version of the story is about her being a very beautiful woman who was pursued by a lot of rich men. Some versions say she was flirting with them when her children drowned because of neglect or by her own hands, while some others say she married a very wealthy man who then started to neglecting her and she felt resentful toward her own children.

If children cross her path, she could kidnap them to drown them in the waters.

El Silbón (The whistler)

One I loved as soon as I learned about it! It's a man who is carrying his father's bones, who he killed after he came back from a hunt without a deer heart, like he asked of him. Then, he got beaten and banished from his home by his brother or grandfather. The brother (or grandfather) also sent him his dog behind him. Since that day, he's wandering with the father's bones on his back, whistling and not stopping so the dog wouldn't catch up to him.

His whisling is very scary. Some say he hates drunk men and womanizers, who he kills, while some say once you're listening to his whisling you're doomed.

Notice I used it in today's prompt "Pranks" I posted earlier there!

El mohán

First thing I found about him is how his appearance varies. But he's usually described as very hairy.

He steal bait hooks and scare the fish away, but he also loves a lot gold and keep his treasure in his underwater cave, which he uses to lure women to never be found again. Some say they become his concubines.

On the other hand, it seems like he's also returning loved ones to their families.

As a last one, I'm talking about...

La Tunda

La tunda is a shapeshifting monster who shapeshifts into someone attractive, or a loved one, to lure you. She also hypnotize her victims by feeding them shrimp and crabs she cooked in a place I won't tell because it's a bit gross. When doing so, they fall in love with her and don't want to come back to humanity anymore.

It seems like she sucks the blood of her victims too, especially males (and adults I guess). But really, for her I invite you to see my sources for more infos on her.

(I guess she sucks children and women's blood too? It wasn't clarified in what I found but I mean she probably sucks blood from them too...)

Another source say she's attacking only disobedient children and those who didn't receive baptism, as well as unfaithful husbands and young men and women.

Apparently the origin of the story came from a woman who escaped slavery when the spanish came to South America, then swear to free her people. At the time, the church, and the Spanish, decided to demonize her to discourage slaves to go with her.

You can see more of them in my sources, specially the two first links! I really talked about five of them I liked, there is many more and honestly only La Llorona and El mohán where in both lists.

My sources : https://theculturetrip.com/south-america/colombia/articles/colombias-most-terrifying-myths-and-legends/ https://www.colombia.co/en/colombia-country/colombias-myths-legends/ https://www.espookytales.com/blog/el-hombre-del-saco/ https://www.donquijote.org/mexican-culture/history/la-llorona/ https://allthatsinteresting.com/la-llorona https://storytellingforeveryone.net/the-legend-of-la-llorona/ https://www.astonishinglegends.com/astonishing-legends/2019/7/29/el-silbn https://www.unchartedcolombia.com/es/community/travel-stories/dissecting-the-top-two-colombian-male-legends/ https://www.espookytales.com/blog/la-tunda/ https://monster.fandom.com/wiki/Tunda

[popi-the-fatui]

CHILDE BF HCs

(that no one asked for but here they are anyways)

A/N: this man needs some luv. Long post, there is a whole iceberg under the “read more”. Also, I tried to keep a Gender Neutral reader so pls DM me if there are any mistakes!!

TW: DESCRIPTION OF AN ANXIETY ATTACK, SPOILERS FOR THE REX LAPIS QUEST AND CHILDE’S PAST, a little bit of angst

🐋 Let’s bust some myths first: contrary to popular belief, Childe has no experience at relationships or intimacy at all. Non. Cero. The Venn diagram of romantic/intimate stuff and things Childe has done is a void. But it’s not that he doesn’t want to, it’s just that he hasn’t had the time to experience any of these things because he is a busy man: between fighting, training and being a Harbinger, there is not a minute left for him to indulge in other things. 

🐋 The problem with this is that Tartaglia is a people’s person. He WANTS to be able to have someone that he can do these things with. At the end of the day, when he comes home tired after a mission, all he wants is someone to be waiting for him with cuddles, hugs, kisses, reassurance, caresses, or just a simple “how did your day go?” Because of this, he has a lot of pent-up love that he has not been able to give. 

🐋 In that note, he is also incredibly touch-starved: not only does he want someone to give that love to, but Childe also craves to receive it. When was the last time he was touched by someone in a context that was not a fight? He loves fighting, obviously: he has trained for a big part of his life to be able to defeat everything and everyone. But he is also just a human, and there are limits to how long a person can go without a loving touch. 

🐋 So when he finally falls victim to the first signs of infatuation, this poor whale man will have an internal battle: do I reach for them? Would they be better off if they never meet me? Will they accept me? Has my reputation already ruined this for me before it even began? How do I approach them? Do I look presentable? Am I going to scare them away? Childe will be torn between wanting to protect you from himself (as the Fatui business is not an easy pill to swallow for everyone) and protect himself from you (his heart would not handle rejection/disgust very well), and wanting to KISS YOU AND HUG YOU AND KNOW MORE ABOUT YOU BECAUSE ARGH WHY DO YOU HAVE TO BE SO ADORABLE.

🐋 So he finally decides to compromise between these two stances, and let YOU decide whether you want him as a friend, a lover or a stranger. He starts greeting you whenever he sees you in the streets, subtly asking if you would like him to join you in your commissions, inviting you for lunch/dinner after a mission so you can recharge your energy, asking if you want to go and share drinks with him and Zhongli. You know, friendly stuff friends do. And he doesn’t even try to hide the happy smile that escapes him whenever you say yes to him: when it comes to you, there is nothing he needs to hide. Well, except for that one thing. 

🐋 He knows that you know he is somehow associated with the Fatui, if his constant trips to the Northland Bank aren’t enough to tell. Usually, Childe dislikes going around things as he much rather hit straight to the point (being the point a fight, a deal or just a simple conversation). But he has grown so addicted to the sensations you make him feel that he can’t help but to try to postpone that tiny little detail about himself for later. He has never had anyone who genuinely wants to spend time with him and that can keep up with him. Childe knows he can be quite intense and that rumors about him aren’t really rumors but WARNINGS, and to finally have someone, even if you’re just friends, that is actively trying to get to know the real him means so much, and he doesn’t want to let that go as selfish as he knows it is because there’s a chance you could get hurt (emotionally and physically). 

🐋 Unfortunately for him, everything that goes up must go down, and that fateful day comes when his plans to take Rex Lapis’ Gnosis blows back to him. After that brief, tense conversation with La Signora and Zhongli, Childe’s ego can’t be any lower: it’s not often that he loses, and much less often that he loses while feeling like a fool. He wants to scream, fight, punch, kick. Anything to take out the impotence and anger he is feeling right now. 

🐋 You found him in this state while you were looking for him to see if he was alright because a WHOLE ASS PALACE JUST FELL FROM THE SKY and you’re very concerned for him as you haven’t had any news directly from him and all you know is that apparently Childe was the cause of it?

🐋 As soon as he sees you, his blood-lust disappears and he no longer wants to fight something: he wants to cry from shame. Shame at being found in this state. Shame at failing. Shame at what you would think of him now that the cat’s out of the bag because from the look in your face is EVIDENT that now you know how far his relationship with the Fatui goes. 

🐋 He falls to the ground, tears finally coming out and he is crying ugly sobs while hiccuping nonsense about how he is a weak, pathetic, disgusting failure and it’s not fair it’s not FAIR IT’S NOT FAIR IT’S NOT-

🐋 “Look at me” you softly call to him, but he is panicking and hyperventilating and not responding to anything that’s outside of his head, so you decide to sit on your knees in front of him, gently cupping his face with your hands, caressing his tears away with your thumbs. 

🐋 “Childe, look at me. Please?” You try again, carefulness in your tone as to not startle him. And when he finally reacts and looks up, you don’t see Tartaglia the 11th Harbinger, nor Childe the fatui flirt. All you see is a broken man that carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, exhausted from constantly fighting against everything the world has thrown at him, and your heart aches for him and wonders how long this man has suffered alone, how long has he suffered in silence. 

🐋 “It’s okay, Childe. You’re okay. Can you breathe for me?” You position yourself behind him and put your hands on his shoulders, rubbing circles with your fingers to further calm him. “Breath with me, yeah just like that. Now hold it for a bit and then release it. Keep going, I’ll do it with you. I’m here”

🐋 Childe finds himself finding it easier to breathe with each inhale and exhale, and when he is finally going down from his high, catharsis hits him HARD. Is this what he has been missing all of his life? Is releasing all that pent-up frustration supposed to feel this good? And he feels a little selfish, because he knows he doesn’t deserve your comfort after the stunt he pulled, but Childe can’t help but become putty under your tender touches and your soft words, and he wishes for a different context, for a different past in which he never fell into the abyss, never joined the Fatui, never felt that the only way to survive was to fight. Instead, he wishes for a past in which he is traveling because he wants to, and he meets you, and he courts you and makes your cheeks heat up at something he said. And you are not touching him because he had a panic crisis that he himself caused. No, he imagines the both of you after a dinner date in Liyue. The sky is dark and the stars are shining but the streets are still full of people laughing and talking and the light from the lamps are reflecting beautifully in your hair. You are walking near the harbor, and you are holding his hand and he is giving you a kiss on your forehead because he can’t help himself. In another life, he would have found you and loved you the way you deserve and the way he needs. 

🐋 But he knows that now is too late, and all he has left is a mind full of regret because he did, in fact, hurt you. How could you trust him after this? How could you WANT him after this? So imagine his surprise when the first thing that comes out of your mouth is a soft “Are you ok now, Childe?”

🐋 “I- how- what?” He mutters in disbelief. Why are YOU asking HIM that? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?

🐋 “You had me very worried back there. I thought you would stop breathing at any moment. You are not hurt, are you?”

🐋 And he laughs. A high-pitched, almost maniac laugh. “You know I was the cause of all of…” he says, moving his arms to signal, well, everywhere “...this, right? I believe you now must know what my real business in Liyue was, and that I’m not just some random Fatui officer”

🐋 “Well… I kind of suspected it? How many ‘random Fatui officers’ are carrying a Vision, huge amounts of Mora and have so many ‘meetings’ at the Northland Bank with the Qixing themselves? I mean, I didn’t know you were a Harbinger, but I did know that you were a higher up in the organization. I’m not dumb, you know?” you answer light-heartedly. 

🐋 “Then why would you keep hanging out with me? If you knew all of that, then you for sure must have known that people tend to keep me in a ‘do not trust’ list. People are wary around me, and they should! If you knew of the things I’ve seen, the things I’ve DONE. The reputation surrounding the Fatui, especially the Harbingers, wasn’t built on nothing, you know?”

🐋 “Don’t get me wrong. I do have somewhat of an idea of the things you do for a living. And let me be clear: I certainly do not condone it. And to be honest, I know that things between us would be easier if you weren’t a Fatui and I actually wish you weren’t one” you can feel how his whole body deflated at that, and even if you are sitting behind him, you just know he has a pout on his face, so you resolve for hugging him from behind and rest the side of your face between his shoulder blades, and continue. 

🐋 “But in the past weeks, I also had the opportunity to get to know you. Not Fatui you. But human you. I know that you have a family that you love very much and you do everything in your power to protect them. I know that you haven’t had it easy, and that some scars you have still hurt. I know that you absolutely can’t eat with chopsticks, but your pride refuses to give up and you try anyway. I know that you’re a passionate man that holds his dearest people close to his heart. I know that you hate when I’m sad so you’re willing to make a fool of yourself if that means I’ll end up laughing. I know how you wait outside of my building until my window lights up after you get me home so you are sure nothing happened to me. I know by the way you sometimes disassociate from the world around you that you are thinking of home and returning to your family” as you speak, you feel something wet falling on your upper arms, and realize that Childe is silently crying. You have half a mind to stop, but you also know that he needs to hear this, so you tighten your hug a little in reassurance. 

🐋 “I also know that whenever I see you with a new wound, I can’t help but worry for you and my first instinct is to check if you are okay. I’m now familiar with the way my heart skips a beat whenever I get to see one of your genuine smiles, especially when the reason behind them is that you get to spend some time with me. I know my eyes soften when I see you talking about something you’re passionate about. The truth is, I care for you, Childe. I really do, Fatui or not. Harbinger or not. And yes, while I would rather you not be one, I still can’t help but long for your company because you make me happy. Because I love you. So don’t underestimate me. I’m strong and so are my feelings. You being a Fatui is not gonna change that”. After this, you two sit in silence for a few minutes, but it’s not an awkward one despite your confession. You know he is gathering his thoughts so you move one of your arms that is wrapped around Childe’s torso to card your fingers through his hair, mindful of the knots that had appeared after the battle. If he doesn’t believe your words, then you sure hope he trusts your actions. 

🐋 Childe is the one who breaks the silence when he asks “How could you possibly love someone like me?”. If you weren’t sitting that close to him, you wouldn’t have heard it. He says this so softly, so gently, almost as if he was trying to convince himself and not you. 

🐋 “Silly boy” you laugh warmly. “Did you hear anything I just said?” You ruffle his hair, and finally, FINALLY, you can hear him giggle a little. “You don’t get to decide who I love. That’s my choice, and I choose to love you”

🐋 No kisses were shared that day. No grand, magnificent romantic gestures were made. Only the silent promise of two young lovers to love and cherish each other as they were. And maybe, just maybe, you could work things out, together, to build yourselves a brighter future. 

🐋 So after all has been said and done: congrats! You are now the proud s/o of Teyvat’s biggest simp. 

🐋 Childe is your number one fan. Everything you do is carefully recorded in his mind for later use. He has to go on a mission away from you? Be prepared to be pampered and being taken on several dates the previous week so this clingy man has something to hold on to. 

🐋 Also: he is shameless. He will not be afraid of making out with you in plain daylight on a busy street. But fear not! If you happen to not be a fan of PDA, he will try to be low-profile. You are, afterall, a person he treasures and can’t live without, so your comfort comes before his needs. Now, I say “try” because he will still demand to hold your hand and give you the random kiss on your cheek. 

🐋 HUGS. FROM. BEHIND. Watch him giving you hugs like Oprah. You are buying something? Cooking? Chilling? Expect to feel a pair of long limbs wrapping from behind you in a tight hug like a koala. It’s his hourly vibe check. 

🐋 Very jealous and protective of you. He is very afraid that one day you’ll realize there are plenty of people better than him and you’ll leave him, so please remind this simp that he is more than enough for you. 

🐋 He also has nightmares from the time he spent in the abyss and will take sometime for him to realize that he is no longer there, so give him a few minutes for him to come to his senses and then please for the love of the Tsaritsa cuddle the life out of him. Also on this note, I have the headcanon that he prefers being the little spoon. That, or facing each other and he rests his face in the crook of your neck while leaving little pecks there. 

🐋 Also you discover, to your surprise and as stated at the beginning , that this man has absolutely no idea how to do relationships. To compensate for this and to give you only the best of the best (as you deserve), he spends time in his travels to read romantic novels to have an idea of what to do, so don’t be surprised if he says or does something corny or cringey. 

🐋 The most chaotic “meet the family” you’ll ever have. As soon as he takes you to Snezhnaya, you will have all of his siblings running and tackling you into a bear hug (he sends A LOT of letters to his family about you and if you read them you would not be sure if he is talking about you or a deity).

🐋 He also tries to keep you out of anything regarding the Fatui. It’s a relief that you finally know about how deep his person runs in the organization, but he also wants to spare you from the details of what he does unless something is really bothering him. 

🐋 All in all, this golden retriever is your biggest hype man and the most loyal boyfriend. You will never get bored with Childe, as everyday is an adventure with him and he will make sure you to make you as happy and loved as you make him feel.

[kurowrites]

Betting On You - Part II

Hhhhh, this has been frustrating me ever since I wrote part I. Idk, idk.

Previous part

---

Wei Ying and A-Yuan spent a long time in the bathtub, making sure they were all warmed up and clean before they finally stepped out. (Well, were lifted out in the case of A-Yuan.)

Wei Ying picked out the fluffiest towel they owned and wrapped A-Yuan in it, scrubbing him dry.

When he removed the towel, A-Yuan’s hair was sticking up in all directions.

“Look at this little radish!” Wei Ying laughed as he tousled A-Yuan’s hair. “He even has little leaves!”

A-Yuan protested and removed Wei Ying’s hand, but a moment later, he wrapped around Wei Ying’s leg in an attempt to get Wei Ying to dress him.

Technically, A-Yuan was old enough to put on at least the simpler pieces of his clothing on his own, but he hadn’t been feeling well today. Wei Ying, though exhausted himself, didn’t feel it was the right moment to insist on A-Yuan doing it himself, and helped the little radish out. He got out the nice red pyjamas that Wen Qing got him for his last birthday, and wrestled A-Yuan into it.

He had just slipped into a pair of sweatpants himself when the doorbell rang. In a hurry, he grabbed his shirt and clumsily pulled it over his head as he ran to the door of the apartment.

As he should have expected, their wet, soggy laundry and shoes still lay abandoned in front of the door. Wei Ying hastily pushed them to the side as best as he could, so that he could open the door and hide the mountain of dirty clothing behind it, keeping it out of view.

When he opened the door, Lan Zhan stood in the door frame, as stoic, handsome, and well put together as ever. Wei Ying had the nonsensical impulse to check his own appearance to make sure he was decent, but that was a lost case by now. He had barely managed to slip into a shirt, his long hair not brushed out yet.

“Lan Zhan,” he said, a little more breathlessly than he’d intended to.

“Hn,” Lan Zhan replied, and held up a large pot that Wei Ying only noticed when Lan Zhan brought it to his attention. “Soup.”

Wei Ying’s eyes widened. Had Lan Zhan actually made soup for them?

That was… far nicer than anything Wei Ying had expected. He’d maybe expected Lan Zhan to bring over some instant soup or something. But on second thought, Lan Zhan didn’t seem to be the type to eat instant soup. Ever.

“Oh!” Wei Ying cried out, suddenly remembering that he’d been taught manners at some point in his life, instead of just staring dumbly at the pot. Quickly, he waved Lan Zhan into the apartment. “Come in, come in! Please, feel free to join us! It’s very messy right now, but you know how it is. I always need to make sure we’re on time in the morning, so I only really get to clean up at night. Oh, the kitchen is over here, I think the layout is different from your apartment, no? Yours is bigger.”

“Hn,” Lan Zhan slowly agreed, after taking off his shoes, careful to evade the sea of water escaping from the bundle of wet clothes behind the door, and stepping into the apartment proper. “I converted one of the rooms into a music room.”

“Right, music teacher,” Wei Ying smiled. “A-Yuan enjoys your music, occasionally. Though we don’t always hear it.”

“The room is soundproofed,” Lan Zhan replied. “I sometimes play with the window open. I apologise.”

“Don’t apologise!” Wei Ying cried as he provided Lan Zhan with a space on his stove to put the pot of soup down. “We enjoy it. Definitely better than the stuff that usually plays on the radio. Or the shit people try to market as ‘appropriate for children.’”

Lan Zhan only hummed in reply, but Wei Ying was almost sure that he looked pleased.

Heh. Even Lan Zhan wasn’t above a little self-satisfaction now and then, apparently.

“Little radish!” he called out. “Come here, Lan Zhan brought us some soup! It’s dinner time!”

A moment later, A-Yuan toddled into the kitchen and firmly attached himself to Wei Ying’s leg. But despite his apparent shyness about the ‘stranger’ standing in his kitchen, he stared up at Lan Zhan with big, curious eyes.

“Say ‘thank you for the meal,’” Wei Ying encouraged him. He might not be the best father out there, but no one could accuse him of not teaching his son some manners. Those that actually made sense, that was.

“Thank you for the meal,” A-Yuan recited obediently, though he remained firmly attached to Wei Ying’s leg and kept looking up at Lan Zhan with what Wei Ying started to suspect was awe.

It was kind of cute, honestly, because A-Yuan didn’t have too many adults in his life, apart from Wei Ying, the staff at the nursery, and rare visits with Wen Qing. It was good to have positive role models in his life, and Lan Zhan was probably as good as they came. It was also a little troubling to Wei Ying, because A-Yuan’s open admiration made Wei Ying feel like he was somehow lacking as a father. It was a ridiculous notion, because he would not want to be like Lan Zhan, but the feeling was there, still. He knew he couldn’t be everything for A-Yuan. But his emotions were not that easily subdued by reason. He knew he wasn’t the ideal choice for an adoptive parent, anyway, and that he would never be a replacement for A-Yuan’s birth parents.

“It is of no consequence,” Lan Zhan replied seriously, startling Wei Ying out of his morose thoughts. “I offered.”

Wei Ying smiled.

“It means a lot to me,” he emphasised, and waddled over to the kitchen cabinets, A-Yuan still attached to his leg. He reached for the soup bowls and started to unload everything onto their dining table.

“Want to eat with us?” he asked Lan Zhan, waving one of the bowls under his nose.

He’d honestly expected Lan Zhan to politely excuse himself and leave at the first opportunity, but to Wei Ying’s surprise, Lan Zhan simply nodded, helped with setting the table, and then sat down to join them during their meal.

And that was how Wei Ying and A-Yuan ended up eating dinner together with Lan Zhan.

It was almost surreal, to have Lan Zhan in this familiar, currently rather messy environment. But it wasn’t uncomfortable by any means. On the contrary, Lan Zhan was a strangely nice and surprisingly interesting dinner guest, and Wei Ying suspected that it was due to his presence that A-Yuan was on his best behaviour. Wei Ying didn’t need to remind him even once not to play with his food! If only that happened during all of their meals.  

To be honest, it was not that easy to get Lan Zhan to speak in the beginning, and convince him to tell them stories about his work as a music teacher. But he made his silence up with being an excellent listener, sometimes listening to A-Yuan’s occasionally nonsensical stories with more earnestness than even Wei Ying was able to fake. And Wei Ying had a lot of practice in faking it.

Wei Ying mostly felt grateful for Lan Zhan’s efforts, because it meant that he was off the hook, for once. He could just sit there, eat his soup, grin at Lan Zhan when A-Yuan said something particularly nonsensical, and not worry about the rest.

And when Lan Zhan finally decided to tell them a few stories of his own, both he and A-Yuan listened to him with genuine interest and no small bit of fascination. For such a taciturn man, he was a surprisingly good storyteller. A certain sense of wit shone through his every word that Wei Ying enjoyed greatly, and that had him laughing out loud more than just once.

All too soon, they were finished with their meal, and it was time for A-Yuan to go to bed. A-Yuan had already started to lag at the dinner table, and so brushing his teeth and putting him to bed was a fairly short and painless process that evening, despite the excitement that an unknown guest had brought.

Lan Zhan, on the other hand, had insisted on helping with the clean-up, and so he stayed and assisted Wei Ying with the kitchen even after A-Yuan had been brought to bed and fallen asleep. Wei Ying had to almost physically keep him from doing all of the clean-up, and insisted to wash the dishes himself.

And so they had ended next to each other at the kitchen counter, Wei Ying washing the dishes, and Lan Zhan drying them.

It was an odd situation.

Wei Ying suddenly realised that he had never been alone with Lan Zhan before that moment. Whenever they had met before, it was usually when Wei Ying was going out of their apartment block or returning home with A-Yuan. Their interactions had usually been short and to the point, and Wei Ying had elected to think of Lan Zhan however he pleased.

It hadn’t been like this.

He suddenly felt himself growing shy, which was all kinds of ridiculous, because nothing was different from before. Why was he suddenly having feelings about this?

Luckily, Lan Zhan didn’t seem to notice how the mood in the room had suddenly shifted, and continued to stoically dry the dishes and carefully set them aside once they were properly dried.

When the kitchen was clean and all tasks were finished, Lan Zhan hung up his towel to dry, nodded once to himself, and then announced, “I should head home.”

Wei Ying stifled a sigh of mixed relief and regret, and led Lan Zhan to the door of the apartment.

“Thank you,” he said as Lan Zhan slipped into his shoes. “You were a true lifesaver today. Both with the soup and for keeping A-Yuan company.”

Lan Zhan rose up from tying his shoes (who did that, it was only a few metres to his own apartment) and stretched to his full height (which was impressive, he was taller than Wei Ying). He looked at Wei Ying for several long and agonising (for Wei Ying) moments.

“No need for thanks,” Lan Zhan replied. “I would not have offered if it had been an inconvenience. A-Yuan is a good child.”

Wei Ying couldn’t help the little glow of pride and happiness that rose up in his chest. A-Yuan was the best child, and he was lucky to be his father!

He said as much to Lan Zhan, and unless Wei Ying’s eyes started to play tricks on him now, his enthusiasm was answered by the tiniest little smile.

“Good night, Wei Ying,” Lan Zhan said, that smile still present in the corners of his mouth.

Wei Ying felt he liked when Lan Zhan said his name like that.

And then, Lan Zhan reached out, and gently brushed one messy strand of hair out of Wei Ying’s face.  

“Please make sure to take care of yourself, as well.”

And with that, he turned around and left, the apartment door falling shut silently behind him.

Wei Ying stood in front of the closed entrance door for several dumbfounded moments.

Did that just–

Was that–

Lan Zhan–

He let out a garbled sound, remembered that A-Yuan was asleep, and quickly turned towards the wet clothes still piled up in the entrance.

He wasn’t going to sleep.

Might as well do some washing.

 Dammit.

[holden-caulfield]

Hi bestie! It's me again 😌

So I've been thinking : divination class where reader and Draco have to read each others destiny (you pick the divination method you like best) and they realize it's connected (and in my imagination there's a lot of angst because it's Draco we're talking about and this boy does not have a path of wildflowers ahead 👀, but also fluff because reader is soft)

Voilà ! Thank you for taking my request, ily 🖤

My love, so nice seeing you here again, i love your requests😩

I spent an entire afternoon looking up divination methods and how to read palms. My conclusions? I know nothing.

Also, I tried to make it the slightest bit angsty but it came out fluffier than expected :/

Trouble And Sufferings

↪︎ 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

Summary: draco and reader attend a divination class together which results in revelations for the both of them.

Warnings: none, the title is totally misleading

Word Count: 1276

//

"Dear class, open your minds and prepare to plunge into the future with the elegant art of palmistry! Today you'll be divided in couples and will read each other's future using only the terminal part of your upper limbs!"

Trelawney's odd words greeted you to class as you looked for a seat to assist to the lesson. Your usual spot was taken so you surveyed the entire class for a free chair, finding it in the higher row.

The seat next to you didn't remain empty for too long for an unfamiliar figure approached you and occupied it quickly.

"Please open your textbooks at page 211 and grasp your partner's palm, i will wander through the class to help those in need."

You opened the textbook in front of you and noticed the person beside you do the same.

"Would you like to go first?" you said glancing up at the blond sat next to you.

"Sure, yes." he stretched his arm in front of him and offered you his hand. You took it in your own and couldn't help but notice how incredibly slender his fingers were, adorned by a couple of silver rings that gave you shivers whenever you barely grazed them with your fingers.

You started running your thumbs on his palm, feeling the softness of it, but perceived him suddenly tensed up and softened your touch even more.

"So, this is... your life line. I think." you said, sliding your thumbs along his palm's most prominent line. You switched your eyes to the page as your thumbs kept gliding on his hand and continued.

"And this one should be..." you said while tracing the line just below the first one with the utmost delicacy, "it should be the head line."

You set your eyes on his face and caught him staring at you.

"Are you sure?"

"Not at all." you admitted with a shy smile lowering your gaze back to your conjoined hands.

He then lifted his hand from your clutch only to grasp your own hand in the process, exposing your palm to his grey eyes.

"The biggest one is the head line, this one is the life line." he said almost whispering as he traced your palm delicately. You felt shivers running up your back but did your best to hide them as his cold eyes bored directly into yours.

"What does it say then?" you asked, inching forward now completely invested in the activity. He seemed to know what he was doing, he probably paid more attention to divination classes than you did and you were thankful for that.

"Well, your life line isn't too long, but it's quite deep." he looked up from your hand to catch your worried expression and let out a low chuckle, "It does not mean you'll have a short life."

You sighed in relief and smiled warmly as he gazed into your book, moving slightly closer to your body. "At least i hope so."

You jabbed his arm lightly and he smirked in response, your hand still safely in his.

"If it doesn't mean i will die soon, what does it mean then?" you asked impatiently, now sitting on the edge of your seat.

"That, I don't know." you have him a disappointed look and retrieved your hand from his hold.

"Give me yours, now that i now which one is which, it's child's play." you didn't miss him roll his eyes at your comments and grasped his wrist once more. "Your head line is fragmented."

"Nice...?"

"Yeah, nice, it means you'll have moments of revelation. Or mental strife, you choose." you declared confidently, eyes still set on the page.

"I don't think it works like that, you know?" he interjected cockily. You lifted your eyes from the book to catch him staring at it, way closer than before. You felt suddenly extremely hot, as if the sun was inside the room, right next to you, burning your skin.

"How are you two doing? You, my dear, tell me what you see!" Draco stepped back when professor Trelawney approached you and you weren't quite sure whether you were grateful or annoyed because of it. You returned your attention to Draco's palm and began.

"Uhm... i see a great future full of... trials but happiness in the end?" you had no idea what you were saying and apparently Trelawney knew too since she grasped Draco's hand in her own and began scrutinizing it.

"Oh dear... this is not good, not good at all! Misfortunes! Hard times! Oh, your past hasn't been kind but your future might be even worse, unless..."

"Unless what?" you asked alarmingly as Trelawney kept predicting Draco's unfortunate future, but he didn't seem too fazed, keeping his eyes on the bizarre professor.

"Unless another force comes into his life, that is." she said matter-of-factly but your confused expression was enough for her to move her wand in the air and summon a crystal ball directly on the table.

"Give me your hands, my dears, we'll embark on a journey now! Please liberate your minds so that we can explore your future together." you and Draco offered your hands to the professor, who grasped it immediately in her own, giving each other a skeptical look.

You closed your eyes and did your best to 'liberate your mind'. You heard her mutter something under her breath but kept your head blank.

You then opened your eyes and saw Trelawney move closer to the crystal ball to inspect it but as soon as she saw its content, she jumped back, a hand over her heart in shock.

"What happened? What is it?" you asked, more and more curious, and immediately looked down at the ball with Draco who had been imperturbable until then.

You could see nothing in it but swirling liliac smoke and, judging from Draco's expression, he saw the same. You tried looking up at him, hoping to find answers, but were met with more doubts. You both faced professor Trelawney who was still gaping at you two.

Draco was growing annoyed with the whole situation and Trelawney's obvious overreaction, so he took the book from the table and began skimming through it.

"Professor? Is it that bad?" you asked. Trelawney regained some sort of control but did not speak yet.

"Purple smoke is a sign of trouble, says here, so i'd say yes." stated Draco, closing the book with a huff.

"Trouble that can be overcome!" spoke suddenly the professor with her usual prophetic tone, "But that's not all! Dear boy, the things I saw... and you! You, my dear, you are crucial!"

You furrowed your brows as Trelawney's lanky index finger pointed at you.

"I'll be the cause of trouble?"

"On the contrary! You are the solution!" she spoke a little louder, gaining the attention of other students who were still deciphering palms. "And you, mr Malfoy, you'll be the solution to hers!"

Draco opened his mouth to retort, but Trelawney got up from her chair and cheerily muttered, "Superb! Indeed superb!" as she continued her path among other students in need of help.

You turned your head towards the blond beside you, looking pensive in his seat. You were still utterly confused by the professor's words and decided to ask him.

"Do you think she's right?"

"Of course not." your face unconsciously fell a little, "She's mad if she thinks that troubles and sufferings are something superb."

You smiled at the comment and caught his eyes, causing a twin smirk to appear on his face, a face you reckoned was indeed worth the troubles and sufferings you were apparently going to undergo.

//

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