#but i just wanted to illustrate how long she’s known him now

[farewellneverland2004]

Possibly unpopular EPIC the Musical opinion;

If EPIC Were to Have dialogue that isn’t sung in any part of the show, I’d only put it in one spot:

During the Challenge, I think it’d be really nice if before the first verse, it Shows Telemachus talking to his mother about traveling to Sparta to talk to the King about his father’s last known whereabouts. To assure his and Penelope’s belief that Odysseus is in fact not dead. It can be small and not that long of dialogue, but the words would emphasize some very important things:

- Telemachus vows to find the truth, if his father is alive, they would dismiss the suitors once and for all (by force if needed), less they wish to dishonor the marriage of the king and the Goddess of Marriage herself, and if he was dead, he would take up the thrown as the rightful heir, now with age and experience on his side, so she does not have to remarry. (I know he’s young, but mythologically speaking, Odysseus became king at 13, so…)

- He promises his mother he will return, and he will not make her wait longer than she has to, and she will not have to wait on the shore to see him.

-He asks for possible forgiveness, since he worries that if he didn’t explain everything, Penelope would believe she is being abandoned by her own son and possibility the only family she has left in Ithaca. He might also ask her to tell no one that he’s gone, for her own safety and to be sure the suitors don’t try anything.

This then leads into the first verse, and she sings it to HIM! Assuring him she knows this what he needs to do, and does not blame him. She uses the lines about the shroud to illustrate that she knows the things we will do for our loved ones and to not let the enemy win, but also to assure him, that when he comes home, she’ll be right there. Waiting for him and his father!

This can then be proceeded by a effect to show the passage of time (like the effect in Satisfied, but forwards instead of backwards) before going right into the second verse where she’s singing to herself, then everything else works out the same as it does

I just think this adds a moment of parental love from Penelope, because we get that from Odysseus in I can’t help but wonder, and I feel with how much Telemachus loves and wants to protect his mom, we should have a scene where we see that the love is reciprocated. Because there’s no way that Penelope thinks of Telemachus as anything less than the most important thing in the world shared only with her husband! A show don’t tell moment from the both of them, and along with him standing up to Antinous, it highlights even more how much Telemachus will honor his parents.

This is only my opinion though, and I know the show is supposed to be entirely sung through. But I thought about this and wanted to voice it.

[princessanneftw]

1987/2024 - Tim Laurence giving Zara Phillips a piggyback at the beach near Sandringham. 37 years later, Sir Tim Laurence hugging his stepdaughter Zara Tindall after she completed the cross country course at the Badminton Horse Trials.

[motorsportbarbie13]

Aftermath - Chapter 3

When Lando leaves you heartbroken after you get tired of trying to make nothing into something for far too long, Max steps in to help you pick up the pieces.

warnings: this chapter contains language and descriptions that illustrate abuse (mental and emotional). lando is abusive, full stop but like many survivors of abuse, it takes reader a bit to claw herself out of this. as a survivor of abuse myself, I am doing my best to give this story line the most respect and care that i can. please don't engage with my work if you find any of the topics triggering.i'd also like to point out that this is a character i am writing, i in no way am insinuating or implying the real lando is like this in any way. pairing: max verstappen x leclercsister!reader word count: 4.9k

(Extra special shout out to @nitaekook for beta reading and holding my hand through this fic 😂❤️)

Aftermath - MV33 - Chapter 1 Aftermath - Chapter 2 Master List

“Where do you want these plates to go, my dear?” Jade asks from across the kitchen. 

You glance up at her from your spot on the brand new couch that was just delivered to the new apartment that morning. You’re sitting cross legged unpacking a box of the few things that you had brought over from the old apartment. In the kitchen, your best friend Jade (who is also Arthur’s girlfriend of about a year thanks to your meddling) stands holding up one of the new plates that you bought with her yesterday. 

“Wherever there’s room.” You say with a shrug, not really caring where the plates go because everything feels weird.

The apartment is pristine with its gorgeous hardwood flooring that Charles had refinished before you moved in, floor to ceiling windows that face out towards the water, and that new house smell that is totally unfamiliar and a little unnerving. You should be happy, shouldn’t you? Finally being free of the stifling apartment that you had shared with Lando should fill you with so much optimism and a sense of relief, shouldn’t it? But that’s not the case. Not even close. You’re scared and nervous and just the thought of deciding where those plates should go seems like the heaviest question you've ever been asked.

 Simply picking out the plates yesterday with Jade had been an ordeal and you had needed to take several moments to yourself while shopping. You liked your old plates that you had bought with Lando the week you moved in with him but at the same time, the thought of taking those to your new apartment was more painful than leaving them behind.

Jade must notice your anxiety because as soon as she finishes putting the plates and bowls in whatever cabinet that suits her fancy, she comes over to sit next to you on the couch. When she wraps her arm around your shoulders you melt into her in a desperate attempt to stop a fresh flood of tears from falling. It seems as if all you’ve done since leaving the old apartment was cry and if you’re not crying, you’re barely fighting off an incoming panic attack and jumping with every ding of your phone. 

“What’s going on, my love?” Her voice is gentle, like she’s talking to an injured animal that she doesn’t want to spook. It makes you feel pathetic, helpless, and angry for how much Lando has damaged you when he should have been loving you. 

You’ve known Jade for years now and she’s always been one of your closest friends. It was Jade that had been the first of your friend group to pull you aside almost a year ago to ask you if you were truly happy with Lando. She had seen the light dim in your eyes as your relationship with him progressed and watching you lose your spark had scared her. When you had told her the morning after your art show last month that you had finally decided to leave Lando, it had been so hard for her to tamp down her excitement that you had finally worked up the courage to leave him. 

“I should be happy, right?” You ask, voice cracking a bit with the heavy weight of what closing the door on the apartment for the very last time had done to you that morning. “I mean, I know I’ve been miserable for…” You scoff, “a really long time so shouldn’t I feel something other than heartbreakingly sad?” 

Jade tips her head so it rests on your shoulder, a humming sound playing at the back of her throat. “You’ve been with him for a long time, of course you’re going to be heartbroken. Youu’re doing the right thing though, I promise you. He couldn’t even stop playing that stupid video game long enough to support you last month!” 

You nod, memory flickering back to the fight in the hallway in front of Max. You hadn’t heard much from him in the weeks since that night aside from a few texts here and there and you had expected that. He probably was mortified at how you had behaved, embarrassed for you that you had allowed yourself to be treated that way in front him.

You wouldn’t have blamed him if he thought you were a weak little girl who deserved the treatment Lando doled out to you. It was the only way you could rationalize his silence. Seeing how far you’d fallen, how much you’d changed, had obviously had an effect on Max and he had decided he’d seen enough. It didn’t surprise you and you didn’t blame him. Jade was one of your only remaining friends and losing yet another person you trusted and valued in your life was just another thing Lando had taken from you. 

“I’m just so glad you finally are taking your power back, love. I know it feels all wrong right now but when you go from the chaos that you’ve been living in for so long, I’m sure the calm of this apartment feels wrong. You’ll get used to it. It might take some time but you’ll get used to it.” 

Your head swivels around to look your best friend and you search her face for any sign of her lying to you. You desperately want to believe she’s right, that you’re making the right choice. You know you are, deep down in your soul, but you’ve been with Lando for so long and have spent so many nights listening to him rant and rave about how he’s the only one who could ever deal with your dramatics that you wonder if Jade is wrong and Lando is the one who’s been right all along. You don’t voice the doubts though, knowing that those kinds of things are something that you should probably keep to yourself. So instead of voicing all of the fears that are bouncing around in your chest, making it feel heavy and tight with the pressure of doing something that absolutely terrifies you, you just nod and lean further into Jade’s shoulder.

 “I know.” You whisper, staring out over the open living room that is littered with small boxes and suitcases. 

With the help of your brothers and Jade, you had started moving your things out slowly while Lando had been otherwise distracted. Just a small box of clothes and trinkets here and there, over the last month while Charles had the apartment renovated and cleaned. When it was finally ready last week, you had begun looking for furniture and making final plans. 

The timing had worked out perfectly, with the apartment finally being finished perfectly aligning with a weeklong trip Lando had planned to go to Woking to spend time in the sim at the MTC. He rarely bothered you during these working trips, hell he barely bothered you during any of this trips, but his work trips were different, so you knew you’d have a solid week to get everything that mattered to you out of the apartment before he would be any wiser. 

“He’s going to be so mad when he comes home and my things are gone.” You murmur, staring down at your phone which hadn’t received so much as a text message from him in almost 48 hours. 

You hadn’t bothered telling Lando you were leaving, that you were done with him. You shied away form confrontation on even the best of days so telling the man that you’d spent the last three years building a life together that you were leaving him was terrifying. When you had started moving small boxes out while Lando was still in town, you had half expected him to notice but that had never been a problem. He hadn’t even noticed you leaving on several occasions with boxes of your books or suitcases of clothes. 

A larger part of you had another reason for not telling him, though. You knew that if you told him before you were fully moved out he’d try to get you to stay. He’d try to convince you that things would get better, that this time would be different. All the things that he’s said before when you spent the night crying over his neglect. And you knew you’d fall for it. You knew you’d go running back to him if you didn’t get out before he found out. Lando was persistent and an expert manipulator, you knew that and you still fell for it over and over again so this time you were trying to give yourself the chance to put yourself first and not fall back into his trap. 

“He’s going to learn his lesson when he comes home and finds that you’re finally moving on.” Jade says, tone firm but still gentle. She knows what it’s like to be in a relationship like you have with Lando and when you had called her that morning last month to tell her you were finally leaving him, she had decided she was going to make sure she’d do everything in her power to keep you from going back to him. Getting you unpacked and settled in your new apartment was a huge step forward, one Jade hadn’t been sure you would end up following through with. 

You nod, hoping she’s right but you have a feeling deep in your gut that when Lando gets back into town tomorrow morning he’s not going to see it that way. He’s going to be angry and he’s going to try to get you to come back home to him. 

Looking around your new apartment though, you feel something settle in your bones that you haven’t felt in a very long time. It’s a feeling of attachment to this place. Like if you’re careful and thoughtful, this little apartment tucked away in one of the most exclusive buildings in Monaco could be the best opportunity you have for getting your life back on track. You could heal here, you can feel that in the way the sunlight spills through the windows in the living room, in the way your anxiety allows you to breathe when you stand in the kitchen surrounded by things that you bought yourself, and in in the way you feel when you settle yourself on your brand new bed that will have never shared an intimate moment between you and Lando. Those memories have all been left behind and this new apartment seems like the perfect place for a new beginning. 

As Jade comforts you on your couch, your brother is across town arriving at the Monaco Sports Club where he has a game of padel scheduled with Max that afternoon. He had offered to cancel on him this morning when you spoke to him on the phone, saying that your first full day in the apartment was more important than any padel game, but you had insisted that he keep his game. You had wanted a bit of space to breathe from your brothers, who you knew meant very well and you were very grateful for but sometimes, the three men got to be a little suffocating. So, against his better judgement, Charles had skipped coming over that afternoon in favor of hanging out with Max. 

Max hasn’t stopped thinking about that night last month when he witnessed Lando being needlessly cruel to you. He had every intention of calling Charles that night, had every intention of telling him how the British driver was actually treating you but something had stopped him. He had needed a little more time to process everything that he saw. Max knew that Lando could be an asshole but he never could have guessed that he would have treated you the way he did that night he brought you back to the apartment. It had shaken him and it had taken him a bit to figure out exactly how to approach it with Charles because he knew if Charles really knew how Lando had been treating you, Lando might not make it to the next race alive. Because while everyone knew the relationship was toxic and Lando wasn’t a good boyfriend, no one really realized just how bad it had gotten until Max saw behind the curtain that night of the art show. 

When Max had invited Charles to play padel today, he had finally decided to tell him what had gone down that night. It had taken so long because Max kept waffling between ‘this is none of my business’ and ‘she’s everything’ but when he spotted Charles walking through the padel courts towards him, Max was surprised at how happy Charles looked. 

“You look happy.” Max observes before giving his friend a hug. 

“Oh, it is a very good day, mon ami.” Charles is practically glowing as he smiles over at his long time friend. 

Max lifts a brow, it’s been a while since he’s seen Charles look this optimistic and he wonders if it has something to do with you. 

As if Charles reads his mind, he continues, “We finally got the apartment finished and as of this morning, she’s fully left that piece of garbage.” A smug smile plays at the corner of the Ferrari driver’s mouth. 

The relief that washes over Max is surprising. He hadn’t realized how truly worried he was for your well being until that moment. The guilt that sets in though has his chest aching. How could he have gone so long without saying something to someone about what he had seen that night? Max carefully weighs his decision that he had been so set on just moments before. If you’ve already left Lando and are settling into your apartment, does Charles really need to know what happened that night? It would only cause more drama and Max knew that more drama and anxiety was the last thing you needed. 

In a split second decision that he knows could come back to haunt him, Max decides to keep quiet for now. 

“That is the best thing I’ve heard all day.” With a genuine grin, Max bounces the padel ball against the floor. 

Charles beams back at him and Max can almost see the stress that his friend has been carrying around recently melting away from his features. He had known that your brother was worried about you, had known your entire circle, or what was left of it, was worried but now that this was really happening, Max could practically feel the relief rolling off of Charles in waves. 

“You’re telling me.” Charles mutters before walking to the other side of the court to get the game started. 

Max hadn’t meant to end up in your old neighborhood, truly he hadn’t. He had been on a run the morning after playing padel for a few hours with Charles when he passed the bakery that was a few blocks from your old apartment. He hadn’t meant to come this far but the pressures of the season were starting to get to him as they usually did around this time of year and he had needed extra time to clear his head. The fact that he couldn’t seem to get you off his mind either plagued him the entire run too. The way you had felt pressed against his side as he walked you home that night last month, the way your cheeks flamed with humiliation as Lando had laid into you in front of him when he walked you to your door, everything about you seemed to be invading his thoughts and it worried him. 

It worried him because he couldn’t let you get under his skin like this. He knew it was a dangerous game he was playing, knowing what you’ve been through and allowing himself to wander down that road. He was just happy you were safe now and hopefully you would start to get that spark back that he knew you still had in you. Everything else would have to wait. 

So when he passed the bakery you had pointed out as your favorite the night he had walked you home, he couldn’t help but follow his feet inside. The smells of freshly baked bread and sweet pastries washed over his senses as the bell above the wooden door jingled, announcing his arrival. He knew exactly what he was looking for before the woman behind the counter even asked and before he was able to second guess his decision, Max was walking out of the bakery moments later with half a dozen of what he knew were your favorite almond croissants. 

A housewarming gift, he told himself. Because what other way should Max welcome his newest neighbor to the building where he had lived for the last two years? He knew these were your favorites and if he had to guess, wandering back into your old neighborhood just for some carbs was probably at the bottom of your ‘to do’ list right now, even if they were heavenly pieces of baked bread and sweet almond filling. 

While Max made his way back across town, laden down with a large pink bakery box, you were just getting out of bed and starting your day. Anxiety, a feeling that seemed to be your constant companion lately, sits heavy on your shoulders as you move around the new apartment. The quiet hush that blankets the small space is different than the stifling silence you're used to in your apartment with Lando. It was unnerving to say the least but if you allowed yourself to pause for even just a moment, you could almost feel your soul breathing a sigh of relief. 

That wash of contentment is short lived though when a knock at your front door sends your heart rate spiking through the roof. You know that Lando was going to be home today but didn't know what time. It didn’t even cross your mind that there was no way it was him outside your door because he simply didn’t know where you had moved to but just the thought of someone who you weren’t expecting waiting for you and the possibility that it could be your now ex-boyfriend had you spiraling. 

Reaching for your phone, you pull up the security system app that Charles had insisted you get installed, despite the fact that this was a very well secured building with its own doorman downstairs 24/7. The person standing outside your door has confusion knitting your brow together. 

Pancake ingredients forgotten, you pad towards the door shuffling through various emotions: relief that it isn’t Lando waiting for you on the other side, apprehension about seeing the person that was patiently waiting in the hallway for you, and a bit of relief that you hadn’t lost this person like you thought you might have. 

“Max, what a pleasant surprise.” You murmur when you swing the door open. 

In front of you, the Dutch driver is dressed for a workout in athletic shorts and a t-shirt, his blond hair covered in a backwards baseball cap. You’re surprised at the shimmer of pleasure that works its way up your spine when he smiles at you but quickly squash the feeling, remembering the pity on his face as Lando had yelled at you that night he walked you home. 

“I was on a run this morning and remembered you saying this bakery was your favorite. I thought I’d bring you some almond croissants as a sort of ‘welcome to the building’ present.” 

Warmth spreads through your belly at the gesture and you hold the door open to welcome Max into the apartment. “Welcome to the building?” You ask, confused. 

Max grins back at you, rubbing at the back of his neck as he follows you to the kitchen. “I live up in the penthouse. I moved in about two years ago.”

Surprise flickers across your face. When you started dating Lando, your friendship with Max had grown distant so it shouldn’t shock you that you didn’t even know where your friend lived. “Oh, I didn’t realize.” You whisper, guilt settling like a stone in your stomach. 

Max watches you bustle around the kitchen, decidedly avoiding eye contact with him. For a few moments he just observes you, trying to decide if he should leave or push. Charles had mentioned yesterday that you were nervous about living alone and Max wanted to make sure that you were okay. He knew he should probably leave you alone to continue to settle it, with it being only your second day in the apartment alone, but there was something keeping him rooted to the spot where he stood in the middle of the kitchen.

 “Are the almond ones still your favorite?” He asks, shattering the silence that had settled over the room. He knows you’re easily spooked now and Max desperately wants you to be comfortable about him. Maybe if he distracts you from whatever storm is brewing in your head, you’ll open up a bit. 

His patience is rewarded with the first unguarded smile he’s seen from you in a long time. “I can’t believe you remembered.” You laugh, reaching for one of the croissants in the open box. 

“You used to put these things away like nobody’s business when we were younger.” 

The blush that creeps across your cheeks has Max gripping the edge of the counter. The two of you fall into a comfortable conversation of safe topics, mostly about your new apartment and how Max’s cats are doing. You like this, the way you feel around him but you can almost feel your body bracing for the other shoe to fall. You keep waiting to have something stupid slip out of your mouth, causing Max to berate or make fun of you. 

Much to your surprise it never happens though and you spend the next hour talking through memories of when Charles and Max were fighting it out on the karting tracks when you were younger. Max remembered you well from those days, how you would beg to tag along with him and Charles and the older boys. 

The sun sits high in the sky when your phone start buzzing loudly on the counter. At first you ignore it, too lost in the conversation you and Max are having, the way he is so attentive to everything you have to say and how he asks you questions like he’s genuinely interested in what you have to say. You don’t want the attention he’s giving you to end but when your phone starts buzzing for the fifth time in a row, you get up off the couch to retrieve it. It was probably just Charles checking on you, you hand’t heard from him all day after all. 

Your heart sinks and your stomach churns when you see the caller ID though. “Fuck.” The whisper that tumbles off of your lips is broken and harsh, causing Max’s head to snap towards where you’re leaning over the counter, forearms braced on either side of your phone. 

“Everything okay?” Max gets up off the couch to join you in the kitchen, concerned over the way you’ve suddenly gone white as a sheet as you stare down at your phone like it’s about to reach up and strangle you right there in the middle of the room. 

In the couple of hours that you had spent catching up with Max, you had completely forgot that Lando was due to get home soon. “I guess Lando has discovered I’m gone.” The way your voice shakes has Max’s heart squeezing. 

“He doesn’t know you moved out?” 

“Well he does now.” You quip, nervous chuckle falling from your lips. The text messages came in first, it looked like. Nearly a dozen of them and as you scroll through the messages, your face heats. Of course this is going to happen with Max here. Why is he always a witness to your humiliation?

Where are you? Why is the closet half empty, where are all your clothes? Baby, why is your treadmill gone? And your Peloton?  Where the FUCK are you??? ANSWER ME NOW WHERE ARE YOU??? DID YOU LEAVE ME THERE IS NO FUCKING WAY YOU’RE DOING THIS TO ME RIGHT NOW ANSWER YOUR FUCKING PHONE NOW COWARD

Shortly after the messages stop, the calls start. You stare down at the phone as Max watches as call after call comes through. 

“You don’t have to answer him.” Max murmurs, coming to stand right next to you. You have to resist the urge to lean into his warmth, to collapse against the quiet strength that rolls off of him in waves.

“It’s only going to get worse if I don’t.” 

“Does he know where you are?” 

You shake your head, tears threatening to spill over. Why was this all happening right now? You knew you were safe, that he had no idea where you had moved to but just the thought of being in the same city as him when he was this angry is enough to have the panic threatening to strangle the breath straight out of your lungs. 

“Then you’re safe. He wouldn’t ever do anything to put his career in danger, Dovie.” 

You have to laugh at the statement because it’s so true. Lando would never do anything to put his career on the line. He’d do whatever it took to keep you in line under his thumb, no matter how mean he had to be to control you but when it came to his career? His first love? He’d never do anything to put his seat in question and you knew that. You had always come second to racing and what Max said was the total truth. 

Max watches you shrink into yourself as the calls continue to come in, one after another, and he knows he has to do something. He glances at the time and instantly gets an idea. “I was supposed to go to dinner with Danny in an hour. What if you leave the phone here for the night and come to dinner with me?” He pauses, seeing the panic flicker across your face. “With us. Come to dinner with us.” He corrects quickly. “I’ll call Charles and see if he’s free too? It’s been a while since we’ve all had dinner together.” 

Your eyes drop down to the phone, now quiet for the moment, and weigh your options. You know you’re not ready to talk to Lando but the fact that you’re ignoring him makes you feel like a coward. You’re going to have to speak to him sometime but maybe it was okay if you put if off for a few more days. Dinner out with Max, Daniel, and your brother sounds so appealing but you still hesitate. 

“Come on, Dovie. You can’t spend the whole night starting at the phone. He’s going to keep calling and it’s not good for you to be alone right now.” 

The pain that slices through your heart at the gentle coaxing Max’s tone takes on is almost unbearable. Why is he always the one to see you laid so bare, so vulnerable? 

“How did I let this happen, Max?” Your voice breaks, soft and uncertain as you turn into Max’s waiting frame. Without hesitation, Max’s arms circle around you and he pulls you deeper into his chest. Something settles in him then, almost like he’s relieved you’ve allowed him in. The way you shake while he holds you has his chest aching and he’d really like to give the McLaren driver a piece of his fucking mind right about then, but he knows that’s going to have to wait for now. You’re much more important. 

“You were in love, schatje and that’s okay. You trusted him and he broke that trust. It’s not a reflection of you, sweet girl, its a reflection of him. You have nothing to be embarrassed about.” 

You sob quietly into his chest, soaking his t-shirt through with your tears as the dam finally breaks. Humiliation threatens to drag you under but you allow Max’s words to resonate through you. They soften the sharp edges of your heartache and regret, knowing that someone like Max, who you respect and have known for nearly your entire life, doesn’t think this entire thing is your fault. You sink into his warmth, clutching at the fabric of his shirt, allowing his steady breath to ground you. 

Max just stands there, a quiet pillar of strength that he can feel you desperately need right now. Hr murmurs quiet reassurances to you as you cry against him, slowly rocking you back and forth. “Come on,” Max coos, lips brushing against the top of your head. “Go take a shower and then lets go to dinner. I’ll call Charles and see if he’s free. You haven’t seen Danny in ages, right? It’ll be good to get out.” 

Dragging in a deep breath, you hold the air in your lungs until they pinch. “Okay.” 

With one last look at your phone, you turn away and walk down the hallway, leaving Max starting at your phone which has finally gone quiet. For several moments, Max just stands at the counter in the kitchen, unable to move. Relief floods his veins when he hears the shower start though and he knows that you’re finally making a small step towards getting out from under Lando’s control.

@shelbyteller, @martygraciesversion381, @samantha-chicago, @stelena-klayley @dark-night-sky-99 @luckylampzonkland, @aykxz98 @forensicheart @cheer-bear-go-vroom @lieutenantchaos @willowsnook @linnygirl09 @meglouise00 @mixedstyles @secret-agents-stole-my-bunnies @mrosales16 @charlesgirl16 @leclercdream @daemyratwst @dramaticpiratellamas @mochimommy2002 @llando4norris @iamaunknownsecret @maxivstappen @imlonelydontsendhelp @nina-or-anna-or-nora @a1leexxa @littlegrapejuice @sunflowervol18 @freyathehuntress @finn-dot-com @swiftie-4-lifes-stuff @chirasama @lauralarsen @dr3wstarkey @saskiaalonso @rbv3rstappen @ilovechickenwings @guaaafiiburg @mcmuppet @mindless-rock @piastri-fvx @mel164 @schumi-angel @myescapefromthislife @supertrashbread @sunny44 @tinystudentblaze-stuff @sarx164

[youuuimeanmee]

ENDOO SHUT THE FUCK UPP

SO U MEAN TO TELL ME

THAT OUR FAN THEORIES

ARE CORRECT.

(endo-san, if you've planned this from the beginning, then a thousand applauds for you for sticking to this plot & foreshadowings for so long. If u were just throwing shit up & rely on fans' theories to see where you're going next, then great job for making it seem so seamless. wtf.)

I still don't buy the "Donovan is an alien" narrative completely; I still think he changed after he secretly volunteered to be a lobotomy experiment subject, to get the superpower he wants to reach a greater understanding in humanity.

Although, if Endo really wish to introduce a terrestial being into this series, then, does that mean Anya's telepathic ability is really born from the lab's experiment? Is she born from the sperm of an alien?? Alien DNA recombination?? Lolol. *edit: this is just me hoping that Anya's telepathic ability was developed in vitro, bc the idea of those mad scientists opening up Anya's skull & cutting up her brain whe she was a baby is just sick beyond belief & i cant accept that.*

I am so so glad to see Fiona in this chapter, trying to extract extra info from Desmond's staff! It really hammers down how incredible this valuable opportunity is for Westalis. Great job Endo-san, for not forgetting to include this 👍

Wait.

Wait a damn minute.

If what Melinda say is true, Donovan can read minds,

Then Donovan must've read Twillight's mind on their first meeting; his fake persona & and Operation Strix have already been busted.

Maybe this is not just a mere illustration inside Twillight's head, maybe this really IS Donovan's reaction when he find out about Operation Strix?? LMAO

Or maybe Donovan can only read minds to a certain extent –not fully like Anya, so maybe he can only get the gist of what people are thinking; so he doesn't know Operation Strix yet, but he knows that Twilight wants to extract some information from him.

(though I wanna add, even if Twillight is from the opposing country, I hope Twillight's sincerity to meet in the middle could reach Donovan too.)

I've known these theories for awhile, but could these be true afterall?? (We're already at this stage, but I still don't wanna assume fanons as canons.)

Then.

IF Damian —at the family dinner— was remembering Anya's confession that she can read minds, and he wished he could read what's on his father's mind too,

Does it mean Anya's telepathic ability is already busted by Donovan?

Is my theory from ch 106 correct afterall???

Oh wAIT.

FUCK I forgot if Donovan read Melinda's mind too, then he must've learned that Melinda has befriended Yor Forger. The mother of Anya Forger. The daughter of Loid Forger.

Combine that information from Melinda and information from Damian that Anya can read minds....

... does it mean Donovan has assumed that Twillight from Westalis is using his telepathic "daughter" as a spy in Eden Academy?

Funny thing is, Twilight himself has no idea about all this implication. He's a million steps away from Donovan.

HAHAHAHHAA

(lol how could I not read this from miles away)

Argh fuck, I'm really worried for Anya now.

This could very well escalate into the "war" of obtaining Anya as an asset. Maybe it'll still be light-hearted, like manipulating Damian's romantic feelings for Anya by inviting her to have dinner together, but still. At first, I thought Donovan might get Anya expelled from school because she's dangerous, but I figure she's just too valuable to be tossed away; it's better to keep her close while extracting info from her as much as he can. Or use her ability to the fullest.

At least Anya is now aware that Donovan has the same ability as her, so at least she can proceed with more caution now.

I hate seeing Anya being the only one aware of the whole situation & she struggles alone to keep it all together — like what she has done all this time. That's why I really want Anya to come clean with Twilight so he can at least get a picture of the whole situation he's facing right now, and protect her properly, but I know it'll massively shift the Forger dynamic we're used to. I have no idea how will Endo handle this development from now on.

Well, that's enough anxiety for tonight.

Stay safe Anya! 🙏🥺🥺🥺

[byeolbeloved]

Letters to Cupid -Kang Yeosang

Pairings> soldier!yeosang x typist!reader

Genre> childhood friends to strangers to lovers, angst, fluff, use of flashbacks, slightly suggestive, setting takes place around 18th century

Summary> for centuries, women named cupids worked as typists to write letters on behalf of senders who couldn't write themselves. You were always the writer but never the receiver for a love letter, yearning to be picked up by a knight. What you didn't expect was for this knight to have a familiar set of eyes, only this time lost from the innocence they once had.

Words from pupa : This fic is inspired by the anime Violet Evergarden! Also note that the writings in small italics are meant to be flashbacks. I had so much fun writing this so I really hope you enjoy it <3 The picture is also fanart I made myself hehe so I hope you like that too ^^

The typewriter clicked away, following a warm melody of the woman reminiscing her adventures with the other piece of her that is now battling the screams and horror of man. The warm scenery of her words contrasted the thunderous roars outside. The weather had no mercy on lovers under the moonlight.

"Please tell him I love him and I'll always be waiting for him" the woman said glass eyed. 

She's a gorgeous woman, with light make up and well done hair, although judging from the purple under her eyes you can tell she's had restless nights, tearful even, by her pink nose that was already prominent as she walked through the door. 

You always thought about how hard it must be to have your lover be in the military. You've seen many cases of these couples working as a typist. You had at least 10 letters a day of women writing to their husbands on how badly they miss them, some not knowing their ashes have become part of the land they fight to protect. 

"He will appreciate this letter dearly, Elenor. I will make sure to send it out by Friday" you say with a smile embossing a wax seal on the letter.

"Oh thank you Cupid. I was never good at using the typewriter so when an old friend told me about you I practically came here as fast as I could. It's been a month since he's been away, we've never been separated for this long.." 

"It must be so hard for you both. He'll be just fine El... I see the love in your eyes, he'll come back to them"

Education was a privilege, hence the reason why so many people were illiterate. For centuries women named "Cupids" wrote letters on behalf of senders who weren't able to write to their loved ones themselves or simply didn't know how to express their emotions on paper. It started from a voluntary organisation but has now turned into a whole company, well known throughout the land. 

You were born into the world of literature. Your father was a writer and your mother was a book illustrator. Work being the opening chapter for their own love story. From the moment you were born, books heavily dominated your life. Literally. Because even from the scene of your birth, where your mother delivered you unexpectedly at the house you grew up in, you were wrapped in ripped pages from books- that being the first thing they could grab instead of a blanket at such a chaotic scene of panic. 

You grew up with your mother reading you books and you accompanied your father while he wrote. Although you loved literature, writing your own book wasn't something you saw yourself doing. You much preferred experiencing a realistic event rather than coming up with a story, which is why you fell in love with this job.

You get to write true emotion while hearing another person's story and relationships. And you were clearly good at portraying what people wanted to express as you had tons of people personally asking for you to write for them.

Love; a topic you could rant on and on about. You dreamt about being picked up by a knight, running away from reality just to intertwine in each other's soul.  

However, you weren't such a hopeless romantic as you were very selective with the guys you talked to, let alone dated. No one has ever made you feel like a princess getting saved by the prince. Maybe reality isn't like the books, however, you felt that there must be someone in this lifetime who could make you feel like that.

The night was dark. Dark as the swelling wave of the ocean before the rising winds, when it bends its head near the coast. Rain fell hard against the concrete floor and the wind was so sharp it could cut you. 

The girl shut her eyes, trying to count sheep to calm her heartbeat but the sound of the rain only pictured her sheep drowning in the night alongside her.

"The rain won't get us here" spoke the boy, flashing her a smile that emphasized the pink red mark by his left eye. The red mark he told her was from a kiss from cupid after she pointed out how it looked like a heart. They were under the awning of a closed store.

"The rain is scary Yeosang" she frowned.

"It's only water" he held his hand out to the rain and let it get wet "see? I'm fine" 

"I know but I don't like the noises" 

"Then don't listen to the noises. You can just listen to me" he wiped his wet hand on the side of his pants and grabbed onto hers.

"I will protect you from the rain. I promise I will always hold your hand when it rains Y/N"

“Sorry I’m late, I just finished up with my last client for the day. Did I miss anything?” you place down your coat on the chair back.

“Only Jia swooning over mailman Tony again” Sakura chuckled while sipping her coffee.

“Seriously, when are you going to make a move? He might be single” Maya continued mouthful with a sandwich.

“Oh shush there shall be no romance at work. We have a business relationship and that’s how it’s going to stay. Now let’s get started with the meeting so we can head home before the weather gets worse.” Jia snaps and everyone hides their smiles at her shyness.

“Okay, this meeting is to just remind everyone about plans for next week. We will be accompanying commander Chan- everyone remembers him right? From last year. We will be writing letters for his unit, he has a different unit now. Make sure to pack warm clothes sinc-”

“Since there will be lower temperature in the North” Sakura and Maya said together in a monotone voice. “We’ve done this before Jia we knowww~” Sakura whines.

“Just relax and look out for the hot single soldiers” Maya giggles to Sakura who is now poking at Jia’s side.

“Business! This is business guys! We're going there for work. Plus, these hot guys are depending on us to bring back their messages to their families. No fooling around” Jia makes clear.

Once a year your team will visit military camps to write for soldiers. You’re usually there for 3 days excluding travel. Apart from some of the men being touch starved and looking as if they’ve never seen a woman in their life- most of them are really nice. Last time they even set out a mini farewell and thank you party before your departure.

The crisp sound of snow beneath your feet and cold sensation on your nose definitely woke you up from your nap on the way here. It actually felt quite nice, your surroundings bright from the white snow despite the sun not yet risen and the cold air felt like a splash of water to your face in the early morning. All nice except for the sound of Sakura and Maya’s whines from how their boots weren’t fit for the snow. This is exactly why Jia spent so much time whining about clothing. 

The soldiers shared cabins or tents. You girls too got your own cabin to share- unfortunately quite small so you’ll have to put up with Maya’s snores throughout the night, however big enough for the 4 of you. The main area had its own cabin. That’s where the soldiers mostly hang out and eat. 

As you girls made your way to the main area, commander Chan introduced you to everyone. There seemed to be at least 40 men in there, thankfully all divided into units so it was easier to organise when you’ll be working with who. 

Everyone gave you a warm welcome. You girls spent the first hour chatting with some of them, or you could say flirting for Maya and Sakura, before going into your cabin and unpacking your stuff.

Everyone was really sweet. Two soldiers, a long haired guy with a mole under his eye and another slightly taller than him with a dorito-like physique showed you around the area and let you know the schedule for breakfast, training and lunch. The area was quite open, you could see yourself getting comfortable here as it was very quiet. However, during all this you felt a pair of eyes on you. Though looking around you never saw anyone who could be staring.

“Slow down Yeo! It’s really rocky here” the little girl pants, trying to keep up with the energetic boy in front of her. He’s practically waddling like an excited maltese dog that’s about to get a treat.

“Just a little more, come on!” he grabs onto her hand speeding up her steps, now reaching his pace.

The two youngsters reach the top of the hill, overlooking the dazzling sight of flowers in different shapes and colours spread out across the field. 

The girl lets out a gasp eyes sparkling “This is… what you wanted to show me?”

“What do you think?”

“Yeo this is…. Beautiful” her eyes scan across the field, completely forgetting the distant yelling from her mom she was worrying about 15 minutes ago from why she took so long to get back home after school. 

“It’s gorgeous” says the boy, but he’s not looking at the scenery of flowers. He’s looking directly at her. Swimming in the ocean of her sparkling eyes reflecting the warm colours from the sunset. 

You are gorgeous he thought to himself.

The day was busy. Each unit who was on their breaks got their letters done and even though it was only day one, you managed to get lots done already. It was already pitch black outside and everyone was already tucked into their cabins.

Maybe you were still in work-mode but your body had no intentions to rest as you couldn’t stop tossing and turning in your bunk bed so you decided to take a step outside. You walked over to a corner with bright pink flowers contrasting the white snow, standing tall and so youthful.

“So beautiful…” you whispered, crouching to touch the soft pedals. They look like they have just bloomed. 

“Cyclamen” a deep voice from behind you startles you, letting out a light yelp from you as you turn around quickly. Your yelp almost turns into a loud gasp as you quickly identify the figure owning that deep voice. 

His hair is a light chocolate brown, long enough to be tucked behind his ears but not in a I haven’t thought about cutting my hair type of way- it was well maintained. He was taller than you but not enough so that you’re practically looking up. His body was clearly fit, arm muscles very prominent even from his camo print thick jacket. His skin was pale. So pale it looked like milk. So pale it emphasized the pink mark by his left eye.  

Kang Yeosang.

You had no doubt this was the same boy who used to have thick pitch black hair, sometimes patchy bangs from the self haircut his sister used to give him. The same boy who looked at everyone with sparkly eyes and clapped his hands together when he laughed. 

This was your Kang Yeosang.

“Those flowers are Cyclamen” he said expressionless, hands in his pockets. 

You don’t know if it's the cold air drying your eyes or your overwhelming emotion but you start to feel tears forming, so hot and full of sentiment they almost burn your skin. “Yeosang…?” you whisper but it comes out shaky. 

“They mostly bloom in cold weather” he says, still in the same stance.

“Are there any more flowers around here?” you sniffle out tilting your head.

“I’ve seen snow roses around here before. Would you like to see them with me someday?”

“I’d love to” you said with a smile, now earning a smile from him.

He takes his hands out of his pockets and steps closer to you, pulling you into a hug which you gracefully accept, your arms latching around his neck almost a bit too tight. 

“Hello Y/N” and that's your breaking point. You start sobbing into his chest muffling out I miss yous to which he responds with a hand on your head, caressing it gently. 

“I’m here”

The walk was quiet and heavy. Each step representing minutes lost from each other.

The girl is the first to break the icy silence “can’t you wait at least till next year? We just graduated”

“Y/N this isn’t my choice to make, I don’t have any other choice. It’s what I’m supposed to do” the boy says against his wishes.

“When will I be able to see you again?” the girl now looks at him glass eyed.

“I don’t know” he lowers his head but quickly looks at her holding her hand. “Hey, no matter how long it will take, I will always be here, yea? I promise Y/N”

“Please don’t break that promise Yeo..”

The following days you and Yeosang were practically glued together when you had the time. You caught up on each other's life events and even reminisced about your childhood together. It was almost like you were kids again, except you noticed how serious Yeosang is now.

You don’t expect him to have that same innocence as he had when you were younger. He’s a grown man now and also a soldier. Not a particularly happy go lucky type of job. However, apart from teeth smiles while covering his mouth with his hand, you haven’t heard him laugh yet. You missed it. You missed the days when you both ran around giggling at any little thing. Is that boy you loved, lost?

“But yea, let’s just say leaving a half opened can of soup in a tent for 2 weeks isn’t a great idea” he scratched his head and lightly chuckled.

You laughed at his stories with his cabinmates. So far he has only told you about silly fun stories with his friends, apart from him explaining the basic routine of what they do in training. You were glad he was able to make fond memories as a soldier, especially since you knew how nervous he was joining the military.

But something about you knew that wasn’t all. Has he really been doing well? What about the times he's been in battle? Has he been greatly injured before? Broken a bone maybe? Does he miss his family?

Did he ever think about you?

“Yeo…” you placed your spoon down. The main cabin was far too loud for both of you to have a conversation so you and him chose to stay in his tent for breakfast and dinners. His cabinmates barely stayed there unless it was for sleep so you had all the privacy you wanted. 

“How are you? Really”

“I’m doing well”

“No Yeo, I mean about everything. Do you like it here? Don’t you miss home?”

“Home? Well… Mom occasionally sends letters, I’ve visited sometimes but travel is so long I’d only have a day with them till I have to come back so… I’ve stopped visiting.” How long has it been since he’s had a home cooked meal?

“This definitely isn’t luxury heh, but I’m used to it Y/N. Don’t worry about me, I know what I’m doing here”

“Do you ever think about… me? Us?” immediately his gaze softens to your words. This is probably the first time you’ve seen a genuine expression on his face since being here. His hand is gently placed on your thigh and he brings his face closer to you. 

“Of course Y/N, I told you I’ll always be here. I promised” his eyes burn into your soul and your gaze meets his birthmark. Your finger moves by itself and goes to gently touch it.

“I don’t see you anymore Yeosang… everything is so different”

“I know. It’s hard. This is all very hard but we are going to work this out Y/N” 

Your faces are so close together you can practically taste his breath. His eyes land to your lips and for a second you could see the pupils of his eyes grow. He slowly breaks the space between you and you close your eyes, expecting to feel a touch on your lips  until he breaks off the moment with a whisper “I want to write a letter.”

“I don’t understand thissssss~ let’s just take a break” 

“We’ve already taken 2 breaks. Here, I started the first step for you, now remember what we did for question 6, it’s basically the same thing” the boy hands her the sheet of paper.

“Yeo I appreciate your help but maybe this is a sign from god that I should just give up on Math” the girl slouches on her seat kicking her feet.

“Math isn’t that hard, you just need to focus. Now come on we still have 5 pages left.”

“5 PAGES!? I might as well throw myself off the window” 

“If you finish this in the next hour” he leans in close to her ear “I might give you a kiss” he leans back to his chair with a smug look on his face.

You’d think the girl wore face paint on her face from the deep red that was now formed. Without a word she picks up a pencil and writes away on her paper. 

“Damn you Yeosang”

Some people get frustrated with slow walkers in front of them, slow drivers or even someone talking way too calmly, but the way Yeosang is working the typewriter makes you want to snatch it from him and do the job yourself.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to write the letter for you?” 

“It’s fine I got this” he continues on with his slow pace.

“Who are you writing that letter to anyway?”

“Just someone”

“Who is just someone?”

“A person I know”

 “Who is this person you know?”

“You don’t know them”

“Pleaseee Yeooo~” you lean in closer to him “I’ll give you a kiss if you tell me who” you giggle remembering his little tactic he used to use on you in school.

“Mmmm I’ll think about it” you huff in frustration and he laughs. 

He laughs. 

Your worries of losing the boy you loved dearly completely vanished as you finally see that innocent boy back. His laugh sounded like the doorbell of a childhood house, where kids would run to see if daddy is home. The last bell ring at school, when kids ran home to show mommy what they drew. The sound of the ice cream truck song amplifying as it rolled up from down the street. The clicking sound of riding your first bike, parents cheering in the background for balancing without training wheels.

He sounded like childhood and you felt like a child again. 

In what felt like forever, Yeosang finished his letter. Sealing the paper into an envelope ready to be read by this mystery person you so badly wanted to know. 

“Okay I’ll take it and make sure to send it out. Make sure to write the address.” you reach your hand out but he doesn't move.

“Oh no I want to keep it”

“What?”

“I want to keep the letter.”

“What do you mean? Don’t you want to send it to that person?”

“Not yet.”

 “We can withhold it and send it at any given time you want”

“It’s fine, I’ll send it myself”

Him protecting this letter made you even more curious as to who it was for. Surely he didn’t just write something for fun. Who was this friend? Was it a girl? Or possibly a lover? Surely not. Especially not when he almost just kissed you a while ago. 

He promised. You’re just overthinking. Right?

It was your last day with the soldiers. You only had a couple of letters to finish and by nightfall you and the girls were set off to travel back home. Absolute no bone in your body wanted to go back home. This meant being separated from Yeosang again and you weren’t ready to let him go yet, you only just reunited with him.

“Y/N, you have a visitor waiting” Maya points to the door, only to see Yeosang waiting for you. 

“I have a few more letters to write th-” you’re shushed by Maya when she lightly shoves you out of the room “Don’t worry, we got this, you go enjoy your last moments with lover boy” she whispers the last part although Yeosang surely heard judging by the way he looked away.

“Ooo he’s a shy lover boy too” Maya says before closing the door, you can still hear her giggles through the wall as you’re now left alone with Yeosang.

“Shall we go?” he quietly says. 

“Yeah, where are we going?” 

“You’ll see”

The two of you slowly walk side by side, occasionally bumping the sides of your arms. There isn’t much talking but the silence is comfortable. Almost too comfortable that you forget this is the last time you get to examine his features before the final goodbye for god knows how long it will be again.

You’re snapped out of your thoughts when Yeosang hands you a big white flower, a snow rose. “This is the snow rose I told you about” he said with a smile gently handing it over to you.

“Yeos-”

“Marry me Y/N”

What.

Time stops for a second. A long second. Even the birds stop chirping and the wind halts. You aren’t sure what just happened but your heart knows for sure that it’s a big deal as it beats so hard, destined to break out of you and reach his own, intertwining with his and merging into one. 

“What did you say?” you mutter quietly.

In contrast with your tone, Yeosang is confident. His chin is up high, shoulders back and there's a look in his eyes that show no sign of hesitation. 

“I want you to marry me Y/N” he takes a step closer, and another, and another, till you’re now backed up into the rough surface of a tree.

“I’m going to make this work, I’ll find a way to leave this place if I have to but Y/N, I can’t let you go again.” he cups your face gently and swipes his thumb across your cheek “I’m done keeping promises and making you wait, I want to be with you Y/N, only you” he rests his forehead against yours.

“Come home to me Yeosang” you breathe onto his lips before locking them together. 

Your lips dance together so full of passion and need it almost feels as if your bodies are intertwining into one. You feel his small smile through the kiss as you deepen it, locking your hands in his hair while his explores the sides of your body.

Cold air hits your belly as he lifts up your shirt to slide his hand against your skin, caressing your chest. If you weren’t so lost in the kiss you would have noticed that he was practically spelling his name across your chest with his hand movements.

Remembering that you both need to breathe, he’s the first to break the kiss. You’re both a panting mess but he manages you let out a chuckle “I’ll take that as a yes.”

“Yes in every language Yeosang. I will marry you” you smile out taking in his lips once again.

You asked for a rose, but Yeosang gave you a whole garden.  

Two years later

“Tell me Cupid, what should I tell her? I’m so scared. What if she’s waiting for another man?” the man from across you says, blowing his nose into his now 8th tissue in the past 10 minutes.

“Sir Walker, you clearly love her right?”

“Yes! Oh heavens more than anything, I-I’d kill for her, I’d crawl on my knees for he-” he sighs taking a breath “I don’t imagine a life without her”

“Then fight for her” you say softly.

“She’s lands away from me Cupid! How will I be a man to her if I cant even reach for her?”

“Make that happen. You said you would kill and crawl for her. Put actions to your words Sir Walker and show her you love her. You are living in the same lifetime, right here, right now, don’t regret your choices and lose her. She needs to see you fight for her” 

The man breaks down but looks up at you again, composing himself before saying “Have you experienced love Cupid?”

“Everyone experiences love. If not now, one day, just as you wait for love, there is another person waiting for the same. Everyone has someone awaiting them” you softly smile. 

“I’ll do it. Tell her I’m coming to get her. I’m not sure when but from today onwards, she will be my focus” the man lets out a broken smile. Broken yet mendable.

“She will be waiting for you Sir Walker” you say before typing away, a paragraph that awaits a new chapter for the couple.

Your night ends with that heartfelt love story. You hope the best for the couple and your heart nearly breaks with his as you also can’t help but think about your person you are waiting for. 

The weather outside is mean. Almost in hopes of drowning man in its rage. The thunder roars and you’re left counting sheep in your head- something you’ve been doing ever since you were a kid to calm down. 

As you’re walking out of the building Jia calls you from behind “Y/N you have a letter!”

She runs up to you and hands you the letter. “Who is this from?” you ask as you’ve never received a letter before. 

“Hm not sure” she looks into a room, clearly distracted by something, or someone as you look at the direction only to see the famous mailman who has been working here years before you joined the company- Tony.

“Um yea I’ll see you tomorrow Y/N I gotta go, bye! Let me know who that letter is from!” she says from a distance practically skipping her way to Tony,

You don't get the chance to even reply to her before she's gone. You look at the letter and there is no address to indicate where it was sent from, which could only mean this letter must have been dropped off by the sender here at the company.

You walk out the building, still sheltered from the awning covering you. Your steps are heavy, unable to move.

It's fine Y/N let's take this slow you thought to yourself deciding to just stand there for a while before making your way home.

You curiously open the letter and start reading it;

Dear Y/N,

How are you? I am writing this letter to you while you are right next to me. I hope you’re not mad about almost kissing you and asking to write a letter instead. It’s just that I wanted to capture my feelings towards you at this given moment, so we can hopefully both look back at this letter.

You asked me if I liked it here. I don’t. I hate the feeling of knowing every movement I make can be my last, and that I won’t be able to say my final goodbye to you. I hate that I go to sleep at night, responsible for another lost man from his lover. I wish I could be able to come home from work and tell you about my day. But what can I tell you? About how many screams I heard? How bloody my hands are after every battle? 

You asked me if I think about you. My answer is yes. Painfully yes. I always think about what you could be doing at any time. If you found yourself love. I worry everytime it rains, do you have anyone to hold your hand during thunderstorms? I force myself to repeat your voice in my head because I’m so afraid of forgetting what you sound like. I always remember about the day I took you to the flower field. You looked so beautiful in that moment. So everytime I find a flower, I make sure to stop and admire it, pretending it’s you. Because to me, you are far more beautiful than any flower out there. 

I will come home to you Y/N. I promised I would be there. I promised to hold your hand. And I will fulfil my promises, even if it means fighting for my life. 

Wait for me my love.

Love,

Yeosang. 

“Damn you Yeosang” you chuckled out, a crack in your voice causing tears to slip out. You look up to the sight of the man in reason for these tears. He’s still wearing his uniform, hat covering half his face. He seems to have gotten bigger in physique too. He drops his hat and you smile widely at the sight of his birthmark, now holding smiling eyes.

“It’s raining” he said, reaching out a hand “I’m here to hold your hand.”

You completely ignore the extended hand and crash your body into his for a tight hug. An embrace with no chance of him slipping out. 

“You came home” you said into his chest.

“I came to stay” 

“And to hold my hand” 

“And to hold your hand” he laughs out.

Yeosang was your childhood. Yeosang is your home.

[diejager]

hi so big fan :D, im terribly obsessed with literally all of your cod fics but oh my god stepdad könig + horangi drives me nuts-

just wanted to throw an idea in your brain because i cant stop thinking about it but imagine if reader used to go braless around the house (because its just her n mom) but after the introduction of 2 new unfamiliar guys in the house she puts on a bra when she leaves her room (but she also forgets sometimes and they call her a tease for it)

With time however, with all the fucking and the constant attention horangi and könig have been giving her nipples, theyre so fucking sensitive she like shudders when they scrape on surfaces on accident (ex. the edge of a table, fabric of her clothes) so she starts wearing a bra all the time to stop that from happening but könig and horangi don't like that so they take ALL her bras-

oh also another idea that popped up but what if reader who usually dresses rather tomboyish/masc also occasionally enjoys wearing very fem/provocative outfits. BUT könig and horangi have only ever seen reader wear masc outfits since theyve known each other. reader still wears her fem outfits but now she wears it under a bulky jacket and baggy jeans and changes out of it in uni/public toilet.

so like one day horangi is out and has to do a double take on reader out in public because they dont recognize them in their outfit (ex. a form-fitting sundress or a mini skirt with sheer tights and cute leg warmers) and he remembers reader leaving the house in something else. fuck i just know könig and horangi are going to get SOOOO many ideas on how to punish reader for that.

any ways thats it from me love ya <3

Hii, I looked at your illustrations and I LOVE them, they’re all so clean and nice.

Cw: DARKFIC, STEPCEST, DUB-CON/NON-CON, smut, size kink, possessive behaviour, delusional, tell me if I missed any.

König used to enjoy stripping you, the act of ripping your bra off and watch your breasts sway from his rough treatment. There was something empowering to it, a show of dominance and possession over you when he could strip you naked under him or watch Horangi straddle you and pull your shirt and bra off, sliding your panties down your thighs. He found pleasure in doing so when you walked around in baggy clothes, hiding your shape and curves from his hungry eyes, it was like unwrapping a long-awaited present that he’d been teased with for so, so long.

If he was especially lucky, he’d find you without a bra, your perky nipples pressing against his chest or peaking under your shirt, two small and hard nubs that tempted him with the prospect of something sweet to bite and suck. He liked admiring them, all swollen and slick with his or Horangi’s saliva, spitting or letting drool fall on your tits while they fucked you, marking your sensitive skin with the indentation of their teeth and dark splotches all across your chest. You always whined about it hurting, pushing them away with frail arms, fighting with weak hits and slow kicks. What you thought would be a deterrent, was fuel to their growing hunger, they were men who liked the fight, the struggle, a prey that wouldn’t fall too easily.

But now, he was growing annoyed that you always wore a bra, like an incessant pest that slowed him down from getting to his prize, even Horangi had complained about it and how intricate your choice of bra straps you bought, all the complicated knots and crosses that made their job much harder than it should when they were pleasuring you. How could you make it so difficult for them? They always made you come, their thick girth splitting you in half and filling you in hot and bitter cum. They tried talking you out of wearing bras, but in your rebellious phase, you glared and ignored their words. There wasn’t much they could do to convince you to stop wearing them, there wasn’t truly anything they could hold against you. So they took them away, making you ask for them if you wanted to wear one and it had to be reasonable.

It seemed that you didn’t like their decision, coming to them for a bra every two day to go out, it left them watching you walk out the door in nothing but jeans, a shirt under your jacket, headphones holding your cap down and a backpack slung over your shoulder, hanging low on your back. It irked him that you always hid your beautiful body, something you should be proud of showing off, but perhaps it was to keep your body for themselves, to dance and writhe in your nude for them only, a treasure that only König and Horangi were privy to. He figured it was something he should be proud of.

Then Horangi told him how he found you in a short skirt and a shirt that rode up your abdomen and showed your pretty bra if you raised your arms, the soft jacket you left home slung around your shoulders, dipping low enough to show your back, but your jeans, shirt and cap were gone, stuffed in the now-filled bag. König couldn’t help but mimic the deep sneer on Horangi’s face, teeth tearing into his lip at your audacity of wearing such promiscuous attire for the world to see and hiding yourself from them. It made them wrathful, a deep-seated anger and envy that boiled until you got home, changed into the same baggy clothes you left with. This warranted a punishment, to teach you a lesson about lying to them and holding out on them. 

“Come here, du scheiß Gör,” König growled, glaring at your shuddering figure. [you fucking brat.]

Taglist: @sae1kie @yeoldedumbslut @bvxygriimes @distracteddragoness @konigsblog @daisychainsinknots @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @danielle143 @tuttifuckinfruttifriday @notspiders @brokenpieces-72 @petwifed @randominstake @cassiecasluciluce @hayleybarnesx @shironasumi @lucienbarkbark @sparky--bunny @bloobewy @223princess @maylovesyousomuch @infpt-zylith @sweetnanah @aldis-nuts @evolutionarry @kaoyamamegami

[tcwmatchmakingau]

Commander Mayday illustration by @nika6q

A Match for Mayday: Chapter 1

Editor's note: This fic is a collaboration between @nika6q (artwork) and @dystopicjumpsuit (story)

Pairing: Mayday x Flower Farmer Reader 

Rating: T

Wordcount: 2.2k

Warnings and tags: fluff

A/N: dedicated to @nika6q ❤️‍🩹

Read Chapter 2 here!

Your sister has always had immaculate taste. From her gorgeous flat in a Coruscant high-rise, to the handsome trooper currently staring down at her with adoration in his soft brown eyes as she wraps her arm around his waist, to the selection of high-quality brews in the conservator which you are currently raiding, she has curated a beautiful life for herself. She’s been your best friend since the day she was born, and you couldn’t be happier for her. You didn’t have an easy childhood, and seeing your little sister settled and thriving is everything you had hoped for her during those difficult days. 

Her boyfriend—no, make that fiancé—practically worships her. As you watch them through the sliding glass door, you realize you’ve never seen her look as content as she does in that moment, smiling softly up at Hexx. Unbeknownst to you, an identical smile plays on your own lips as you close the conservator door. Just as you do, a latecomer enters the kitchen, and you turn automatically to greet him, your eyes widening as you take him in. 

He’s a clone, but damn, what a clone. He looks older than Hexx and most of his brothers, though that might be due to his beard and longer hair. He’s tall and solidly built, and even in civilian clothing, he looks imposing. His long sleeves are rolled up to reveal forearms corded with muscle, with a hint of tattoo ink peeking from the edge of the fabric.

“Hello,” you greet him, that soft smile still in place as you introduce yourself.

“Mayday,” he replies, and his voice is deeper and and more gravelly than you’ve heard from other clones. “Pleasure to meet you.” 

Up close, you can see faint lines around his eyes, and a sprinkle of silver in his hair. Definitely older than Hexx, then. 

“Can I get you a beer?” you offer. “Or are you a whiskey man?”

“A beer sounds great, thanks,” he says, and you hand him the cold bottle you just pulled out of the conservator. His fingers brush against yours, soft and warm, and his eyes follow you as you turn to pull another bottle out of the conservator. “How do you know Hexx and Sunni?”

“Sunni is my sister,” you reply.

“I thought I saw the resemblance,” he says. “Why aren’t you out partying with the others?”

“Just came in for a drink,” you reply. He arches an eyebrow, and you buckle immediately under his unspoken interrogation. “And to hide for a few minutes.”

“Now, why would you want to hide?” he asks, tapping his bottle against yours and taking a long sip.

You shrug. “Not a huge fan of crowds. They make me nervous.”

“You must hate living on Coruscant, then,” he says.

“I would if I lived here,” you reply.

“You’re not local?” he asks, and you’re not sure if you’re imagining the hint of regret in his tone.

“No, I live on Nakadia,” you reply. “I’m only on Corrie for the engagement party.”

“Nakadia?” he asks. “Then you must be the farmer.”

“Yes, I own a flower farm there,” you reply. “How did you know?”

“Hexx told me they were having the wedding at your farm. You’re a brave woman to agree to host that many clones for a party,” he says with a charming smile.

“I’d do anything for Sunni,” you reply. “But I have to admit it’s weird to think that she’s getting married when I still see the adorable little girl with fluffy hair and a face covered in jelly when I look at her.”

“I know the feeling,” Mayday says with an ironic twist of his mouth. “We do what we can for them, but in the end, we have to trust them to know what they’re doing.”

“Hexx seems like a good man,” you say tentatively. “And he makes her happy.”

“Have you known him long?” he asks.

“I’d only spoken to him on holocalls until I got to Corrie three days ago,” you reply. “What about you? Did you serve with him?”

Mayday nods. “I’m his commanding officer, at least for the moment. I can tell you that there’s not a more loyal soldier in the GAR. He’ll take good care of your sister.”

“When you say ‘for the moment,’ what does that mean? Is he being reassigned?” you ask curiously. Sunni hadn’t mentioned it.

“Not to my knowledge,” he replies. “But I am retiring.”

He seems too young to be retiring, but there is a weariness about his eyes that makes you think he’s earned it.

“What will you do then?” you ask, relaxing back against the countertop.

Mayday mimics your laid-back posture, leaning against the wall as he answers. “Haven’t decided yet. I might just spend some time enjoying being the only person in charge of my time.”

“You’re not going to rush down to RTL to find the love of your life?” you ask, a teasing light springing into your eyes.

“Nah, not for me,” he replies. “I’d prefer to meet somebody organically.”

“Understandable,” you reply. “Though it certainly worked out well for Sunni and Hexx.”

“And what about you?” he asks.

“What about me?” You take a sip of beer and enjoy its icy effervescence on your tongue.

“Any plans to visit the matchmaker?”

“I’m not really interested,” you admit.

Mayday nods slightly, his eyes unreadable. “So you’re taken, then?”

The door slides open abruptly, and Sunni bursts in like the force of nature that she truly is, tugging Hexx behind her.

“Are you hiding in here?” she demands with an infectious laugh. 

“Of course not!” you lie with dignity. “I was entertaining your guest.”

“Welcome, Commander,” Hexx says, subtly standing at attention.

“Relax, Hexx. You don’t need to salute me at your own engagement party,” Mayday says with that easy, charming smile.

Hexx and Sunni sweep you back outside to join the rest of the party goers before you get a chance to tell Mayday that you are very single.

Months pass before you see Mayday again. Sunni is swept up in wedding plans, and you head back to Nakadia to tend to your farm. There’s plenty to do, between your normal responsibilities and the additional work of getting the property ready to host a large wedding. If you think Sunni is a social butterfly, she pales in comparison to Hexx and his multitude of brothers. Sunni is going to have the largest family-in-law in the galaxy, and it seems like half the GAR will be attending the wedding, along with their plus-ones, most of whom had met through Right to Love Matchmaking. Several of the matchmakers are also invited, and you hope they aren’t so dedicated to their work that they will harass you to sign up for their services. 

A few weeks before the wedding, Sunni and Hexx arrive with a large contingent of clones to help with the labor of getting the farm ready for such a large gathering. Veetch is there, of course, along with numerous members of the 77th Heavy Brigade. 

And, of course, Mayday is there. 

It takes an unbelievable amount of work to get the farm ready, but given that Hexx has quite literally brought a small army to help, it goes faster than you expect. The entire first day is spent clearing brush to make space for the large pavilion where the reception will take place. It is dirty, sweaty, backbreaking work, even with the help of the droids. You are exhausted at the end of the day, and after taking a quick shower, you make your way out to the front porch to watch the sunset. It’s your favorite vantage point, and it’s a nightly ritual that you almost never miss.

Tonight, though, someone has already claimed your spot. His tall, broad form leans casually against the pillar as he surveys your lovely farm. In the golden light of early sunset, you pick up the glints of lighter brown and gold in his dark hair, and for an instant, you wonder what it would feel like to twine your fingers through it. On impulse, you stop in the kitchen and pull two bottles of ale out of your conservator. You join him and offer him a bottle wordlessly. He nods his thanks and goes back to staring out at the kaleidoscopic fields of flowers. 

You didn’t see much of him today. He has been busy working on a special project in the barn, and his sleeves are littered with a fine layer of wood shavings. Your knees creak a little as you lower yourself to sit on the porch step, and soon he joins you. 

“Nice place you have here,” he says at last, breaking the evening serenity. “Peaceful.”

“That’s what drew me here,” you reply.

He looks at you curiously. “Trying to avoid crowds?”

You nod, not wanting to spoil the tranquility of the moment by delving into your personal history. “It’s a good place to live a quiet life.”

“That sounds…” he begins, but he trails off. 

His eyes have a faraway expression, and you wonder what horrors he’s seen to make him look so karking tired. He doesn’t continue, and you don’t prod him. Instead, you quietly watch the sun paint the sky in a wash of pastel. As the light fades and the dusk creeps in, you exchange occasional desultory remarks, but mostly you sit in companionable silence, drinking slowly and simply enjoying each other’s nearness.

“It’s a good place for a wedding,” he observes.

“Yes, I always thought if I ever got married, it would be here.” You smile. “I wouldn’t want the big party, though. Just a few people. Sunni and Hexx, a few close friends. A simple ceremony, and then a cozy dinner party under those trees,” you say, gesturing at the nearby copse of acthorn trees.

“You’ve thought it out,” he observes.

You let out a small, self-deprecating chuckle. “Kind of hard not to with everything going on.”

“That’s fair,” he says. “I never thought much about weddings. Didn’t think it would be a possibility.”

“Is this the first you’ve been to?” you ask curiously.

He shakes his head. “The matchmakers have been busy. Half of the commanders have paired up, and the other half are just waiting for their turn.”

“But not you?”

He shrugs. “Can’t say I ever thought much about the war ending, until it did. By then, it seemed a little late to start planning a life I never thought I’d have.”

You frown. “It’s not too late. You’ve earned that life, Mayday.”

“Maybe,” he acknowledges. “But I won’t find it on a speed date.”

He’s waiting for you the next night, too, and the one after. Each evening, you open up more to him, and the two of you spend hours conversing in low voices late into the night.

“How many kinds of flowers do you grow?” he asks as he looks out across the vibrant patchwork of blossoms that stretches to the edge of your farm.

“Hundreds,” you reply. “Not all at once. I stagger the plantings to extend the growing season and keep the income a little more predictable.”

“Which ones are your favorite?”

“Fire lilies,” you reply. “They’re unpopular with buyers, but I still grow a patch of them just for myself.”

“I’ve never seen one,” he says.

“Would you like to?”

“Very much,” he replies.

You stand slowly. You’re accustomed to hard work, but the past few days have been a whole other level of manual labor. A tiny moan of relief escapes you as you stretch your tired muscles. When you turn to Mayday, he is watching you with an indecipherable expression. He’s very good at that, you’ve noticed. Sometimes he is very open and easy to read, and others he is incredibly guarded. He must be an excellent sabbac player, you reflect.

With a small smile at the thought, you lead him through the twilight into the garden. In the fading purple light, the lush perfume of the lilies surrounds you in a sweet, heady cloud.

“May I pick one?” he asks.

“Of course,” you reply. 

Most people don’t bother to ask, and you never realized how much it bothered you until Mayday’s courtesy reminds you that you have a right to say no. He plucks a blossom carefully, reverently, making sure not to damage the rest of the plant. 

“They’re beautiful,” he says quietly. “I can see why they’re your favorite. Why don’t buyers like them?”

“They don’t last long once they’re picked,” you reply. “It makes transporting them tricky.”

“Then I’m sorry I picked this one,” he says.

“Don’t be,” you reply. “There will be more tomorrow.”

The sun has fully set now, and his dark eyes reflect the pale light of the moons. He examines the blossom closely, taking in the graceful curves of the petals, the striations and speckles at the center, the delicate filaments of the stamens. His eyes rise to your face, and his hands follow nearly unconsciously. His knuckles brush subtly against your cheek as he tucks the flower into your hair. Your mouth suddenly feels very dry, and you swallow without meaning to.

“Beautiful,” he repeats.

---

Read Chapter 2 here!

[lazzarella]

Peaceful Property rambling incoming! I wrote it in like ten minutes, so it’s a mess, but I’ve been meaning to write this since ep 6 and I just wanted to finally get some of my thoughts out. This really is more for myself than anything I guess 😅

TL;DR I’m finding the writing in Peaceful Property really good and satisfying, especially when it comes to tropes I sometimes find frustrating or offputting or that are often poorly executed imho

The writing in Peaceful Property has been so good and so satisfying to me so far! The pacing in general is really nice, and there's been some nice misdirection/red herrings (I kept forgetting to write about this and now I can't remember what they were lol) and I think the pace of the reveals has been really good too. Like, if we knew from the outset that Peach was hit by a car and died for a while, I feel like it would've been easier to suspect Home's involvement? Similarly, if we knew that Home had been involved in a hit and run earlier, I don't think the audience would've sympathised with him as much (of course, some people have lost sympathy with him now, and that's understandable)

But the writing is also a good illustration of how tropes that aren't my favourite or can be frustrating for me can end up enjoyable in certain writers' hands. Obviously, this is just a personal preference, but I often find the 'person wants to confess something and takes their time doing it because they're nervous and then, when they're finally ready, the person they want to confess to finds out some other way with disastrous results' trope frustrating at times. But it worked SO well here! I think the frustration sometimes comes from it not fitting characters, but it fits Home and Peach so well and the setup worked well to make it believable for me too!

Like, Home has never had to take responsibility for anything ever. Of course he doesn't know how to own up to what he's done wrong! Especially not to someone he truly cares about! (Which also seems like a rarity in his life). Like, he literally has no precedent in his life to draw from as far as we know. And he has a family and he doesn't want to risk it and he wants the apology to be perfect. So, it makes sense to me that he would hesitate and take so long!

And, of course, Peach's devastation is believable, but him jumping to the conclusion that Home knew all along when he sees the video makes sense too! Yeah, he's learnt to trust Home, but seeing that video would just really mess you up, right? That the worst thing that's ever happened to you was done by this person you now see as family? I think it's easy to assume he'd known who he hit. And Home's family stepping in before Home can explain also makes perfect sense because they've done it before. So, yeah, where I can sometimes find this setup frustrating and annoying because it doesn't fit the characters or it's just sort of weak, I thought it was really strong here

(As a sidenote: I'm not necessarily mad at Kan, but really really curious about what's going on with her, so that's another nice piece of writing for me personally. I'm not saying she's not out of line, but she's so mysterious that, yeah, I'm just SO damn curious more than anything)

I can also go either way on the 'poor person rejects rich person's money out of pride, etc.' trope. But, again, I thought it worked perfectly here! There were a couple of other posts that went over why it made sense for them, and it definitely worked for me too. Peach is still very emotionally raw, he believes his friend—his family—has been lying to him all along, probably using the money to assuage his guilt, and now this attorney says he's there on Home's behalf, so he's reacting emotionally on some level. (I mean, we see him not long after sobbing on the bathroom floor) He feels used and betrayed and the money—even for the work he's already done—symbolises that to him. 

So, yeah, like a lot of the writing in the show, his rejection of return of the money is symbolic of severing ties with Home and rejecting what he sees as corrupt ideals, or whatever. He wants Home to know, without a doubt, that he wants nothing more to do with him. And, because Peach thinks Home cares more about money than anything else (and has good reason to believe so), this feels like a 'hit 'em where it hurts' thing to me too? 

But, yeah, sometimes I hate this trope, but it worked well for me here as well because of the way it was written

Anyway, I'm repeating what others have said, and I don't know where I'm going with this, but, in conclusion, I'm finding the writing SO satisfying. I could probably do a breakdown of every ep, but I won't because I'm lazy and also just parroting what's been said already haha

[corvus--rex]

Lance and Keith started dating early in high school, even before Keith came out and started his transition, and it's now just after college and they're engaged. They've been with Lance's family for the day, Sylvio and Nadia included.

The kids are 6 and 4 and have known Keith literally their entire lives. They were too young during various stages to understand what was going on, but they both know Keith's trans.

Needing a break, Keith is curled up against Lance in the living room, while Sylvio and Nadia are sprawled on the floor with a book each. Nadia's only just learning to read, but she already loves books. She's turning the pages, mostly looking at the pictures, when she looks up, interrupting Keith and Lance's quiet conversation.

"Tío Keef, why aren't there families in my stories like ours?"

It's been about 15 years since he's read a kids' book and doesn't understand where's she's going with this. "What do you mean, munchkin?"

Nadia puts her book down, turning to face him in all the seriousness a 4 year old can muster. "They all have a mami and a papi, but not - not -" her face scrunches as she tries to find the right word.

She doesn't need to find the right word, the realization of what she's asking hits him at full force. He sits up, leaning forward to meet her eyes. "You wanna know why there isn't anyone like me?"

She nods. "It's not fair."

It's an innocent question, but she asked it with such naive sincerity, genuinely upset that she didn't see her own family in her favorite books. It gave Keith an idea. He had a new sketchbook in the backseat of his car, a very recent art degree, and the few creative writing classes he'd taken.

Nadia's books didn't have her family in their pages, but maybe they could.

"Y'know what? I'll be right back."

He ran out to his car and back with the sketchbook, plus the mechanical pencil and ballpoint pen from his bag, and sat down on the floor with her, meeting Lance's confused look asking what the hell he was doing with one that said "trust me".

"Ok, munchkin," he said to Nadia, "If your stories don't have our family in them, how about we make a new story?"

Nadia's face lit up. "We can make a new one? With our kind of family in it?"

"We can, but I'll need your help."

Sylvio was pretending to read his own book, but Lance could see him listening in and sneaking looks at the rough sketches. That didn't last long, the book quickly forgotten in favor of throwing out wilder and wilder ideas for the story with Keith gently reeling him in. Sylvio was not one to be reeled in, and Lance soon joined them on the floor to help wrangle the kids' enthusiasm. They stayed there for the rest of the afternoon and into the evening, neither one wanting to leave when their parents came to tell them it was time to go. They only stopped fighting it when Keith promised them they'd work on the story again.

He kept that promise, taking the kids out every few weeks, showing them what he'd done in between when he had time, and them continuing the story and illustrations.

After it was finished, he left it for a while, not forgotten, but resting. Eventually, he pulled the illustrations and their companion sheets of text from the shoebox-like storage box he'd gotten just for this, matching art to words.

Lance came home from work to their apartment that evening to find Keith on the living room floor, bristol board and printer paper in an organized chaos around him.

"Think it's really done?" Lance asked.

Keith sighed and leaned back against the sofa. There was one thing about the book he hadn't told anyone yet, but after the email he'd gotten earlier in the day, he finally could.

"Yeah I do." He paused and looked up, a little bit guilty, but mostly trying to contain excitement. "I found a publisher for it. They're a queer-owned company. I actually sent it off about a month ago and I finally heard back today. They love it."

It had started as a picture book, but evolved since then into something a little bigger. Nadia wanted cats - all different colors, and not little kitties, no she wanted lions. And the lions had to have knights to ride on them. Sylvio was the one to insist on a princess and that she had to be their honorary Tía Allura. Gradually, all of the knights and princess ended up based on people the kids knew, Keith and Lance included. It made sense and Keith loved it and the idea of family including the one you make for yourself.

When it came time for a name for this story of found family and adventures, Sylvio yelled "Defenders of the UNIVERSE!" at the top of his lungs in the middle of the park. Nadia had been taking a break from the playground, sitting next to Keith with her coloring pad. She'd drawn the lions from their story, facing out in a vaguely star shape, their tails meeting in the middle.

Keith asked for her opinion on a story name and also what she was drawing and without looking up from her coloring, she said "Its name is Voltron."

Keith put the two together, and when the book was published, its cover was the lions Nadia had drawn that day, only by Keith's hand this time, framed on top and bottom by the book's name: Defenders of The Universe, a Voltron story.

No one had seen the dedication, not until Keith got the advance copies, giving one each to Sylvio and Nadia in the same living room the story had started in. Nadia climbed into Keith's lap with it, Sylvio squeezing himself in between Keith and Lance on the sofa.

Looking over Sylvio's shoulder, Lance read it aloud.

"For Sylvio and Nadia, the original Defenders, this book wouldn't exist without you. Don't stop reading or dreaming."

[ssukidesu]

i guess (songfic)

Fandom: The Apothecary Diaries

Pairing: Jinmao

Rating: T

Summary: They'd known each other for years now, but Maomao still didn't understand Jinshi even a little bit. She didn't understand why he felt the way he did about her. She didn't understand why he wanted to give up all the power in the world to be with her. She didn't understand how he could sit there contentedly while she was only just starting to reciprocate with her half-mute heart.

Yeah, they've known each other for years now. And while she still isn't any closer to understanding him, he is certainly beginning to rub off on her—because she's starting to turn into someone she doesn't understand any better. (based on the song "I Guess" by Lizzy McAlpine)

Read on AO3

Chapter 1: interlude

Straighten your tie

We're not alone

I'll tell a lie just to bring you home

This was going to get... tiring.

Damn the emperor and his stupid diplomatic methods. It was bad enough with every female who was already in the capital vying for Jinshi’s attention every day; why did he have to go inviting more here for that sole purpose? Especially considering he knew Jinshi couldn’t marry any of them anyway because of his scar…

Maomao shook her head. It was probably some sort of disciplinary ploy to get back at him for that very incident. The public couldn’t know anything was amiss, after all. 

But that wasn’t her business.

At least, it shouldn’t have been.

Maomao scuffed her shoes against the floor as she made her way toward Jinshi’s chamber. She felt bad for the guy, honest—but she felt worse for herself. Being his default food taster meant that she had to be present at every meal, even and especially those in which the female attendees fought to get as much of his attention as possible. The very errand she was on now was to deliver a letter to him from some unmemorable woman who had the audacity to invite him for evening company. The woman had handed her the sealed envelope with a half-measure of both passive disgust and delusional giddiness. Poor woman.

No—poor Maomao.

She knocked four times when she reached his door. He hadn’t been in there long—he’d only left the dining room about ten minutes before her—but she was in no position to barge in. About five seconds later, he cracked the door just enough to peer out at her. His one visible violet eye immediately softened upon recognizing her, and he revealed the rest of his clearly exhausted face by opening the door all the way to let her in.

“What’s the matter?” he asked as she walked past. He shut the door behind her.

Maomao would have gotten right to business, but her attention was immediately grabbed by an open book on his paper-infested desk. 

“Were you reading?” she asked absently, approaching to inspect closer.

“Nosy tonight, are you?” he observed. She heard his steps approaching behind her.

Her eyes were trained on an illustration. It was of some sort of tree, one she didn’t recognize. “Are you studying botany for fun in your free time now?”

He scoffed. “As if I had any.” Now at her side, he lowered his finger to the page and traced the ink. “I’m researching trees to learn which would be the most sustainable to cultivate for paper. If we’re going to increase production to incentivize literacy, I figure not all trees are made equal. There are the few variants we use in our country, but it never hurts to do research on what other places use.”

“I see,” she hummed. “And here I thought you’d be daydreaming of all the lovely ladies you had the honor of meeting tonight.”

His lip curled at her sarcasm. “I don’t understand what he wants to achieve with this. He knows I can’t marry any of them." Jinshi's pout spread beyond his mouth and into his voice. "If it’s all for show, he should make it a comedic one, at least.”

“Oh? And how would he do that?” She was getting worse day by day at stomping out her curiosities with him. She knew it was better to be curt, to say only what needed to be said, but sometimes she spoke without thinking and just… said what she was thinking.

Jinshi plopped onto the foot of his bed and unceremoniously kicked off his shoes. He brought his hand to loosen the neck of his robe, which had been clipped with some kind of royal brooch. He cracked his neck, once on each side, and leaned back on his hands. He pouted, “It’d be so easy. Just tell them all I only like women who wear green, or women who only breathe through their mouths.”

Maomao couldn’t help giggling at the image. Jinshi latched onto the sound right away and leaned forward to meet her gaze. He motioned for her to sit on the cushion beside the bed, so she did. He continued, “That’s all I was thinking about, that whole time. What I could send through the grapevine to give me something to laugh about. I thought about telling them I preferred when women wore entirely black makeup and styled their hair in novel ways.”

“That would be cruel, sir,” she said evenly with a moderate amount of genuineness. 

“It would.” Jinshi leaned back on his hands again, but he kept his downward gaze locked to hers. “Thank you for being there for me.”

Maomao broke away to peer at her folded hands in her lap. “It’s my job.”

“Tasting my food is your job. Sitting here now, on the other hand…”

She heard the tease in his words, and she remembered all at once why she had come. She stood and poised to reach inside her robe for the letter. She watched him as she did so, and her fingers hesitated. There, laying on his bed, she felt that he looked like an entirely different person from whom the writer of this letter thought he was. He had not yet freed himself from his royal clothes, but he had loosened them where he could. She could see the top of his chest. His shoes were thrown haphazardly beside the bed, and his bare feet were stretched out, toes no doubt breathing in relief. His face, too, was no longer what it had been when they were at dinner; his smile, once practiced, was now sloppy; his posture, once perfect, was now lopsided and lax.

She liked him best like this. And perhaps not even just for selfish reasons; she liked how he looked when he was just being himself—not the prince with a name she dared not use, but Jinshi, the man who had managed to become her friend.

The word echoed in her head. Had she ever used it so flippantly in her mind before? Why did it feel like she was doing something wrong by saying so? By all objective measures, it was not inaccurate.

She hated the constant bags beneath his eyes, the dull pallor of his cheeks. Maomao knew she cared for his well-being, and had for a long time now. How could she not?

Hands having frozen in the air, Maomao moved to crack her knuckles, as if that had been her intention for lifting her hands from the start. He wouldn’t answer the letter, anyway; why should she waste his time with it? He should go ahead and get to sleep. 

She wouldn’t give it to him. At least, not tonight—not when a mere knock on the door, which even her ears were passively anticipating at all times, could choke out every ounce of relief he currently felt. Just a knock, and his mask would instantly return. His clothes would immediately be refastened. His tired feet would immediately adopt the burden of his body weight. She hoped silently to herself that no visitors would come to him tonight, welcome or otherwise. She thought about leaving a note on his door requesting as much.

His warm voice breached the air. “You won’t speak?”

Her eyes lifted to his. She’d been staring at his exposed clavicle. “Huh?”

“We were talking about your job, and what you do and don’t get paid for.”

“Ah. Are you offering to pay me for my babysitting you at night?”

“You’re forgetting already that you’re the one who came to me, presumably for no particular reason at all.” He was smiling still, but Maomao noted that it was now certainly not the polished smile of a palace prince. It still looked beautiful on his face, of course, but it was a smile she’d often seen on the faces of sparring soldiers or gambling drunks. 

“It wasn’t for no reason,” Maomao snapped, but she couldn’t come up with a secondary excuse quick enough to escape his doubt. When her lie finally came, he was ready to recognize it as one. 

“There are about a hundred additional people in the palace who want to become your partner. I figured I’d make sure you got to your room safely.”

Jinshi fell onto his back with a thump. “Maomao is my protector, then? What would you have done, if indeed you had found me compromised?”

Luckily he was no longer looking at her—he didn’t see her face turn pink. Her words tumbled out quickly. “I’d toss you a tonic and get the hell out.”

He laughed once. “How rude. I’m still young enough to not need a tonic.”

“That so?” she teased, grateful for the opportunity for offense. “I figured your years of taking a eunuch philter would make you inept forever.”

His voice lowered, and he brought his arm up to cover his eyes. “Bold of you to say something like that when you’ve come alone and unbidden to my bedroom.” 

Under normal circumstances, Maomao would seek adamantly for a topic change. But just before she could corral them elsewhere, an image from earlier that night inexplicably invaded her mind: her master the moon prince, at his banquet table, bearing the weight of dozens of fawning eyes at any given time, cheeks fixed in a smile, eyes both politely flicking between guests and secretly glazing over, his chopsticks picking at his otherwise untouched entree. To the untrained and unfamiliar eye, he was near angelic; but to Maomao—who had been sitting adjacent to him behind a few rows of guest tables, close enough to see him clearly but far enough to not hear any of his spoken words—he was hanging by a thread. The few times she rose to deliver his plates after confirming their safety, he eyes would land on her, and he would let his smile slip ever so slightly. She knew it was not because he was unhappy to see her; rather, it was because, out of all the other people in the room, she was the only one who didn’t require it of him. At her final delivery, a fruit tart dessert, when their eyes met and his lips loosened, something within her wished to give him comfort. Without thinking, she felt her own lips curl upward, and she smiled softly at him. His eyes widened slightly at the sight, and from then on till the end of the banquet, she noted that he seemed a bit more energetic.

Kind of like how he seemed right now.

“I meant no offense. I only wanted to tease you a little,” she said finally.

Jinshi sat up again and shuffled so that his butt was on the edge of the bed. This brought him close enough to reach out to her, and he did so. After a second of hesitation and a skeptical look, she accepted his outstretched hand. He tugged her forward until he could wrap his arms around her waist. Looking up at her, as she was about a head taller than him, he sucked in a deep breath and sighed.

“Tease me more,” he grunted. 

Maomao raised a brow. “How can I be so heartless as to tease someone so pitiful?”

“Yes, like that. More.”

She smirked despite herself. “If only one of those ladies knew what a masochist you are. All she’d have to do is slap you in the face and you’d become her slave.”

“Only if the slap was followed by a kiss.”

Touché, she thought.

And then, just as she opened her mouth to retort, the moment they both had dreaded came: another human being, an outsider from this safe bubble of theirs, rapped their knuckles on his door.

“Moon Prince?” the voice said, muffled by the door. It was Basen. “Someone has requested a word.”

Maomao had been watching Jinshi’s face, not noticing how her own fingers clutched at the fabric of his shoulders when his arms tightened around her frame. His eyelids had fallen closed; his brow furrowed. They both were thinking the same thing: if it was someone Basen could not dismiss for the night’s late hour, then it meant it was a very high ranking guest, or a servant thereof. He would have to answer.

“One moment,” he said with a mostly collected voice. 

He loosened his arms from her body and began to resituate his robe. Maomao’s own fingers came to the unclasped brooch, and she refastened it while he gathered his hair to be repinned. His shoes were near enough that he could drag them close with his feet, and he slipped them back on.

Unthinking, Maomao remained close to him despite no longer being in his grip. When he was altogether the Moon Prince again, at least outwardly, he met her eyes. He seemed to find something there, but before she could ponder about what it was, he stood, caressed her face with a single hand, and brought his lips to her cheek. 

Then, he was gone, walking to the door. As he opened it, Maomao did her best to look as if she belonged but also didn’t belong, as a servant would.

She heard Basen’s voice introduce someone, but her mind did not accept the sounds as articulate words. Whatever occurred in the conversation, it resulted in Jinshi leaving the room. 

She returned to her own, knowing she would not see him again until morning.

[renslo161605]

PART THIRTEEN - DEAD FOX (written form /w illustrations)

Isaac had spent hours being tortured by O'Driscolls. He is barely alive. They have him tied to a tree, not as if he can go far.

Read under cut \/

"Isaac. Pst. Isaac wake up."

"please... I'm begging you. I don't want any more trouble. If your gonna give me more grief just put me down, i beg."

Isaac had spent the entire night with nothing but torture from the other O'Driscoll's. He didn't even recognise Dermot's voice, he just wanted peace.

"i mean it boy. Get up n'keep quiet."

"please, please, I don't want anymore trouble just shoot me."

A pathetic plea muffled by tiredness and the ground.

Dermot gave Isaac a gentle kick to encourage him up.

Isaac finally realised who was talking to him, reluctantly he dragged himself up, limping and lethargic as he was.

An emotion Isaac couldn't read flashed over Dermot's eyes. He looked him up and down, at his wounds and at his shaking legs. A mix of pity, guilt and, grief maybe even loss?

"good god, they've really torn ye' up."

Isaac looked at the ground.

"are you still mad at me?"

Funny how even after endorsing the second worst punishment possible - torture, right behind death - a child will still look for forgiveness from a parent.

But Dermot didn't answer.

"Get movin', yer' horse is waitin' fer us."

Despite his harsh tone, Dermot wrapped and arm around Isaac and untied him from the tree he was bound to.

"your helpin' me?"

A tiny spark of hope.

"shut up, don't want anyone hearin' you."

Dermot practically dragged Isaac into the deeper woods. Silently, Isaac didn't argue. What could he do? As far as he was aware Dermot wanted him dead. As loving as Dermot was to isaac. Loyalty comes before love, be it conscious or subconscious. And Dermot was loyal to the O'Driscolls.

Isaac, could barely see, whether it was from exhaustion, pain or the swollen eyelid covering his vision be didn't know. His body ached all over, he didn't think there was a square inch of him not beaten or bruised by a former associate.

Eventually, they emerged from the shrubs to a clearing. There waited Midge. Her gorgeous, pitch black mane looked like a void in the dark of night. Her eyes lit up at the site of Isaac and she trotted towards him. She wasn't used to all the tack Dermot had equipped her with, it was his own tack. A saddle back also sat across her flanks, presumably Isaacs things.

"You - You really are helping me escape. B-but wheres Daisy, whys Midge got all her tack on."

"isaac i can't... I'm not..." Dermot stuttered and Isaac was sure he saw his lip quiver.

"your not what?"

Isaac's heart had awakened with hope and he was thinking much more coherently now.

"Daisy's... Old. Your horse will go further with less dead weight."

Dermot eventually sighed. He grabbed Isaacs shoulder, tighter than normal.

"Isaac. I'm sorry. I'm sorry for everything. Really I am."

"what do you mean? I'm the one who-"

"no. I'm an adult. I should've listened to you and what you said about Keiran. Oh, Keiran."

Isaac started to tear up, he had forgotten about Keiran, how could be have forgotten about Keiran?

"But I'm an old man now. And forever an O'Driscoll. It's what I'll die as. It's who I am. I chose that path a long time ago. But you don't need to choose that path. Make your own life. Your an amazing little boy. Your love for horses is something that could take you far. Use it. Forget about how you were raised, forget about your blood. Change your name if you have to."

"why are you telling me this? Dermot I'm scared."

"oh I'm sure you are, mac, I'm sure you are. But without fear there would be no bravery. And you, have been braver than any boy your age should have been. Come here."

He yanked Isaac into a hug. He held him tight, put his hand on the back of isaacs head and swayed. Almost like he was rocking a babe to sleep, something he had never done to him since he had never known Isaac as a baby. Still he held the boy he raised, the baby-boy he had never had, the boy he had bathed, the boy he had tucked in, the boy he combed the hair of, the boy he dressed. Loved as his own. The child whose relationship was not bound by blood but by a mutual loss. And he loved and he loved, until he had to let go.

Floods of tears spilled from Isaacs eyes. Expected, but also Dermot's eyes.

"C'mon, let's go."

He lifted Isaac up, like he was lifting him onto an unusually high countertop, about to patch up another scraped knee. Placed him on top of his horse. The horse he had given him. His first horse. He stared at the scar on his chin, a wound he had treated when he first met him.

"I HEAR 'EM, THEY'RE IN THE WOODS. "

"C'mon Dermot we gotta go! Get on!"

Dermot stood on his toes, reaching up to Isaacs face and gently placed a hand on it.

To Isaac, Dermot had never looked older than he did in that moment, his dulling ginger hair truely frayed with the white. His green eyes started to grey. The wrinkles on his face twisted into a sob, his flesh was sunken and weary.

"What are you doing! They're coming Dermot! We have to go please"

Isaac grabbed Dermot's hand and desperately tried to haul him up, of course it did nothing.

To Dermot. Isaac had never looked so young. Had never seen him cry like a child. Like a child should, something bitter sweet about seeing it for the first and last time.

"WE FOUND 'EM, THEY'RE IN THE SHRUBS!"

"I love you, son."

Dermot smacked Midge and yelled something Isaac didn't catch. Midge bounded away. Without Dermot on her back.

"Dermot! Wait! No! We need to go back! Midge stop!"

Isaac pleaded.

In the distance he could see a horde of O'Driscolls engulf Dermot. He desperately tries to yank on the reins. But somehow Midge new the mission. She knew she couldn't stop.

"Stop! Miriam Bridget you stop right now and turn back for Dermot, I mean it!"

He yanked on the reins, her hair, her saddle horn. Anything he could grab but she didn't stop for anything. She knew there was nothing they could do.

"please! I'm begging you!"

Isaac draped himself forward onto her neck, an exhausted attempt. He couldn't bring his frail body to do much more.

"please."

The steady drum of horses hooves beat his ears. And tears stung his face. He couldn't see much. His eyes had started closing, he fought it as much as he could.

Eventually he gave in. He let his body finally rest. It felt pathetic. Like a baby who hadn't had a nap yet. And in the back of his mind he knew he'd wake up to next to nothing. No parents, no home, no money, No Dermot. Just his horse. Always his horse.

[faneliansficaloh]

A Lifetime of Happiness

(Chapter 1) (Chapter 2) (Chapter 3) (Chapter 4) (Chapter 5)

This is Chapter 6

Notes

----------

18 November 1817

Dear Penelope,

We have a very small garden in the back of the house. There is a variety of plants in there but, seen as I am no botanist, I am not able to identify them all. I have been pressed by Oliver, though, as he seems to have a very keen interest in nature and wants to know the names for every living thing in the world, Amy just wants to know the names of the flowers. Sir Phillip is of course to blame for this interest, as he gifted them books with plant illustrations last year, which they seem to have re-discovered now.

It turns out we have a food garden. One of the trees produces an odd fruit, shaped like a pear but has a thick, rough skin. I am told that when it’s ripe the innards can be mashed into a type of paste that is supposed to be good, but I cannot fathom how such a thing can be edible at all. There are also potatoes, peppers and, of course, tomatoes.

You must see that I now shall endeavour to ensure we get the best crop of tomatoes possible, it is only right.

Yours, Colin.

1814 – A kind of fear.

The all important night of the ball had come and they were all gathered in the ballroom, exquisitely decorated with the most beautiful flowers, for it was expected to be the backdrop for the Viscount Bridgerton’s betrothal to his intended, since no proposal had been made in the previous days since the Sharmas had arrived. Clearly no effort or expense had been spared as it showed in every single, exquisite detail.

Colin was surveying the room, when his eyes found Penelope. She was standing next to Eloise, as expected, talking rather animatedly. He smiled – Eloise was probably complaining about something, and Penelope would gently tease her about it. He couldn’t stop noticing that Penelope looked rather pleasant in her pink dress.

He had always known Penelope was not entirely unappealing. Even though most of the time the way she dressed and wore her hair were odd choices that didn’t help advertise it, he had always thought there was something pleasing in her large blue eyes. But that night her hair was a little different, and the colour and cut of the dress made her look rather fetching. It was an odd, almost disturbing thought, so he averted his gaze immediately. She was his little sister’s friend, so he shouldn’t be going back to look at her again and noticing how she had distractedly bit her lip in a most alluring way. He took a sip from his drink and directed his full attention to his wife.

Sir Phillip arrived with the full determination of only making an appearance and returning home as soon as possible. He had used a carriage this time, he would not be detained again. He was not even sure why he had chosen to attend. He told himself, of course, that he was merely returning the attentions he received the night of the storm. Lady Bridgerton had been most gracious and it had been far too long ongoing that the Cranes kept slighting the Bridgerton’s invitations to what seemed to be an annual event. As Sir Phillip made his way into the ballroom, looking for one of the many faces he had been introduced to just days prior, he noticed the young ladies he had conversed with during dinner, so he walked in their direction.

Penelope noticed him and told Eloise “Looks like Sir Phillip decided to accept your mother’s invitation after all”

Eloise turned to look in the direction of Penelope’s nod “Oh no, no, why is he coming towards us?”

“Maybe he wants to ask you for a dance?” Penelope teased her friend, making her wince. “Oh, Eloise, you have to admit he is rather interesting. Odd mannered, perhaps, but interesting. And he has read the books you keep talking so much about, you may have a suitable partner for meaningful conversation, as you’ve so often put it”

“I hardly think a ballroom is the place to discuss such matters, Penelope” Eloise scoffed at the prospect.

“Good evening, Miss Featherington, Miss Bridgerton”

“Sir Phillip, good evening. I am glad you decided to join us” Penelope greeted him.

“I surprised myself, to be honest, but I thought I should not keep slighting Lady Bridgerton any longer, after all of the kindness I received the other night. It is however a much larger gathering that I expected and I am yet to find her to pay my respects”

“Well, she’s not far off, I’m sure” Said Eloise “She never is far from me at these things”

“Miss Featherington, is that Miss Thompson, I mean, Mrs Bridgerton, standing beside Mr. Bridgerton?” He asked Penelope, who had to stand on her toes and extend her neck a bit to see over the crowd to where he was indicating.

“It is, indeed” It might be best to keep Sir Phillip away from her. Where were the more social Bridgertons when you needed them? Eloise was certainly not to be depended on for a situation as this. But she did not have to wait for long, because just as Eloise had predicted, along came Lady Bridgerton with a potential suitor for Eloise in tow.

“Sir Phillip! I’m so delighted you decided to join us!”

“Lady Bridgerton, it is my honour. You have designed a most charming evening”

“Allow me to introduce you, Lord Morrison. This is my daughter Miss Eloise Bridgerton, Miss Penelope Featherington and Sir Phillip Crane”

“An honour to make your acquaintance, ladies. Crane, it’s good to see you after so long!”

“How do you do, Morrison” Sir Phillip was courteous but not very welcoming of the other man.

“Have you met before?” Asked Violet with a surprised smile.

“We coincided briefly at Cambridge” Sir Phillip clasped his hands behind his back and his posture stiffened, which Penelope noticed as a sign of discomfort with the other man.

“Miss Eloise, would you do me the honour?” Eloise clearly panicked but she had been trapped and reluctantly joined Lord Morrison for a dance.

Violet then smiled pleased and cast a significant glance at Sir Phillip, directing him to Penelope. She didn’t have to actually say anything.

“Miss Featherington, would you like to dance as well?”

“You don’t have to – I mean, of course!” She had tried to spare Sir Phillip additional discomfort as it was glaringly apparent he did not really wish to dance at all, but corrected herself after receiving a mortal glance from their hostess.

“So, I take it you and Lord Morrison are not friends?” She asked once they were on the dance floor.

“Oh, absolutely not. In fact, I should warn you to stay away from him, Miss Featherington. I cannot disclose my reasons, but I hope you can trust me, even if we haven’t been acquainted for long”

“I assure you I am in no danger, Sir Phillip, but I appreciate your concern” She found it endearing that he would think it necessary to warn her, as if Lord Morrison – or anyone – would ever set their sights on her.

“I see you are very discerning” Did he really think it was a matter of her choosing to stay away from the man and not the other way around? Did he really think her attractive enough? “but what about your friend?” He said, trying to see the other couple.

“I will relay your warning as soon as I have an opportunity... but I don’t think it will be necessary at all” She said as she saw Eloise abruptly leaving the man in the middle of the dance floor, causing a scene.

Violet seemed rattled over the incident, so Colin went to her, with Marina following close behind him. He was worried for his sister as he saw her leave the ballroom “Is Eloise alright?”

“Yes. I just seem to have miscalculated” Violet’s face was still red as Eloise had clearly upset her, which Colin could not tolerate.

“I’ll go talk to her” He moved towards the stairs to go after his sister, but his mother stopped him.

“Let her be, I think she wants to be alone right now. I do not want her to feel under attack”

“Very well.” He decided he would stay near his mother in the meantime, but would have to talk to Eloise later. He loved his sister, but she had a tendency to overlook the needs and feelings of others, her own emotions barrelling through everyone else’s.

“Who was that man, that Eloise was dancing with?” asked Marina “I couldn’t see him, he got away so quickly”

“Lord Morrison” answered Violet, still mortified

“Oh! I’m glad for her, then” Violet’s eyes opened wide

“What do you mean, dear?”

“He’s not a good man, Lady Bridgerton. One of the maids at Romney Hall” Marina gave her a significant look and knew no more needed to be said.

“Good heavens! That explains why Sir Phillip was not pleased to see him” She looked around as if trying to make sure the man was gone for good.

“Sir Phillip is here?” Colin was equally surprised as his wife.

“Yes, he is. He is dancing with Penelope now as a matter of fact” This seemed to shift her mood almost immediately, but his Mother’s pleased and almost mischievous smile did not sit well with him.

“Wonderful!” Said Marina, rather sarcastically. “Now we’ll truly never get rid of him”

“It is just one dance, you exaggerate” Colin noted.

“Hmm We’ll see” Violet declared.

“I’ve danced with her many times, it doesn’t mean anything” Violet stiffened almost imperceptibly upon hearing that.

“But you’re a married man. He is not” Marina was almost laughing.

“Oh dear!” Violet whispered with a little nervous laugh and almost imperceptibly rolled her eyes and made a quick but graceful exit after muttering “Excuse me”. It was almost painful how oblivious all her children were in matters of the heart.

“He is not looking to marry anytime soon, he told me as much” He said, trying to put the matter to rest.

“Perhaps that may change, what if he falls in love?” Marina insisted.

He felt oddly disturbed, a kind of fear crept inside him, at the prospect of Sir Phillip falling in love with Penelope “You are right, he might.” He couldn’t find a single reason why he wouldn’t. Penelope was, after all, very loveable.

Chapter 7

[kyouka-supremacy]

ooh how about Yosano for the ask game?

Yay Yosano!!! I love her so much <33

Favorite thing about them: Her backstory,,, It's just a masterpiece, for me it's really the peak of bsd's writing. “We don't want your skill. We want that kindness of yours” and “You don't need a skill at all. There's real value in your sadness.” ueueueueueueue. In two chapters it made of a relatively flat character a complex and human one, and we love to see that.

Least favorite thing about them: Nothing, she's great??? I can't think of anything.

Favorite line: There's no line that hits me in particular I can think of, but I really like the emotion / delivery of some of them. This one I like tons:

brOTP: Aaaaahhh I love her I want to see her interact with everyone. Older-sister kind of characters are ALWAYS my favourite. I love her dynamics with Ranpo and I like to think they have this sort of sibling complicity of two people who have known each other for a very long time and love each other deeply. I like her relationship with Fukuzawa, I like how explicitly protective he is of her, I'm glad she has someone she can trust who looks after her and makes her feel loved. (Actually, the Yosano / Fukuzawa relationship makes me emotional. Because Yosano was so deeply traumatized and broken and basically dead when he took her under his wing, and she looks so healthy and confident and serene in the canon timeline, it's basically a miracle; and the only way this could have happened is by having someone who deeply loved and cared for her, someone who kindly guided her through every step of rehabilitation. It moves me a little). I really enjoyed her interactions with Atsushi!! And I like to think Yosano and Kyouka would hang out, I feel like Yosano would be happy to sort of return the favour and help back a little girl who was able to slip out of the darkness just in time; I can see them have this kind of inter generational relationship where they go shopping together and chat about girl things.

OTP: I really like kousano!!! I feel like Yosano deserves her spicy pm love affair too ahah. I think it's got lots of potential for both fluff and angst, and I believe it's a cool relationship to explore for both characters!! I wish they'd meet in canon. When I first watched the anime I was low-key into ranposano, and though I don't feel very strongly about them anymore, I think it's a nice ship nonetheless!

nOTP: Nothing. Really I don't dislike ships pffttt.

Random headcanon: Something I don't think I ever brought up but that I firmly believe in is that whereas all the other ada members live at the ada dorms, Yosano, Ranpo and Fukuzawa have their own house where they live together. Fukuzawa took Ranpo to his home when he adopted him, and then Yosano joined them when they took her in because I mean, there was no way that they could leave her alone, right? So they've always lived together, and they are happy together, they never felt the need to change that. That's the real ada found family for me if there ever was one. Really like deconstructing the idea of nuclear family or of the fact that children can't live with their parents as adults while still being independent. Also it just makes sense? And it's heartwarming to think that Fukuzawa, the lone wolf with no friends of relations, now lives in a happy and lively household.

Unpopular opinion: Yosano existing isn't enough to beat the bsd being sexist allegations, I'm so sorry everyone I wish that was the case.

Song i associate with them: Kilmer by Niru Kajitsu, I just wish I didn't (个_个) There's even a beautiful fanart of Yosano in the style of the Kilmer pv here. Also Fräulein=Biblioteca by nyanyannya, just based on vibes alone (the purple butterflies!!), to mention something a little less depressing lol.

Favorite picture of them:

Favourite panel from the manga:

(Took me like. One hour to pick just one. She's always stunning in Harukawa's art style.)

Favourite illustration:

Favourite illustration in the anime art style:

Favourite Mayoi card:

Send me a character?

[jamiegeode]

Why yes I would love to know more. I’ve only ever read The Wizard of Oz (and seen the sequel movie to The Wizard of Oz a long time ago) so please feel free to tell me all about them. Also who’s the pumpkin man??

YESSSS YAYAYAY

SO! Jack Pumpkinhead is a scarecrow made by Ozma(at the time known as the boy Tip) and then brought to life by Tip’s guardian, Old Mombi, one of the illegal witches* of the time. Jack is then taken by Mombi and locked up, and she tells Tip(who she never wanted in the first place**) she will turn him into a marble statue and use the Pumpkinhead as a servant instead. Also Tip’s basically been a slave, and Mombi’s like ‘hm. Less annoying AND I don’t need to feed it? Bye kid.’ This leads to Tip and Jack running away, and the rest of the events in The Land of Oz

It’s also worth noting that Jack Pumpkinhead? He has a deep, severe fear of death. Like he gets anywhere near water and goes ‘dear god, will my head start rotting from the inside?’ He also calls Tip his dad for the entirety of The Marvelous Land Of Oz(second book in the series) and ends up starting a pumpkin farm after his adventures, so that he never has to worry about running out of replacement heads. He’s great. Anxiety rep at its most whimsical.

*Mombi’s brand of magic being made illegal after the laws the Scarecrow passed upon becoming king, mostly prohibiting ‘unnatural’ or harmful magics, but pretty much stopping the majority of magicians and witches not directly loyal to the crown from doing any magic. Which. Mombi herself ain’t great but BRO he essentially banned TRANSITIONING SPELLS! **she was paid by the Wizard of Oz to take the heir to the throne of Oz and hide her so she would never be found- so she turned the princess of Oz into a boy. He doesn’t give a shit about gender tho bc of being what we would in modern terms call ‘a genderqueer icon’, but this did make it pretty hard to find them.

Ok. NOW TO THE ICON HERSELF, POSSIBLY BEST KNOWN FOR THESE ILLUSTRATIONS(WHICH APPEAR IN THE OFFICIAL COLLECTION, AND FROM THE BOOK PUBLISHED IN 1909):

(Yes these photos are from my own copy of the collection of books 1-5, Twas a gift)

OZMA, TIP, THE MONARCH OF OZ!!

She’s an icon. He helped a revolt led by the women of Oz. He then helped the scarecrow escape that same rebellion by making a cursed beast out of some rope, couches, palm fromnds, and a deer head. The curse is how much it hates its own body, being more confusing than a chimera. He fathered a horse. She gave another girl free rein of the palace, including Ozma’s private chambers, and that girl is Dorothy. She helped Dorothy’s entire family move to Oz to escape Debt, and might’ve also helped them commit tax fraud. She then took Dorothy’s family on a tour of the entirety of Oz, usually sharing a room with Dorothy. It was literally love at first sight(paraphrase: she loved the other girl when she first saw her). Before Dorothy moved in, they used a magic portrait/mirror set to call each other at a specific time each day. Dorothy can’t always make the calls, but Ozma is always there. Ozma gave Dorothy a magic belt so she could come and go from Oz as she wished. He’s part fairy. His cousin is part rainbow. Said cousin lowkey flirts with Dorothy. She made Dorothy a princess of Oz, with as much say in what happens as they have. They don’t give a fuck about gender but will perform gender roles like it’s a 30s television show, and I legit think that’s just for the fun of it. He made sure everyone in Oz has a minimum of one bread tree per family. He told the gnome king to fuck off and then stole his trinkets. Those trinkets were actually a neighboring kingdom’s royal family. She freaked out a little when she transitioned but then her friends went ‘it’s still you, we don’t care as long as youre you’ and it was deemed the smartest and wisest thing ever said by the speaker. She’s friends with the guy who paid Mombi to hide her.

I could go into the impact that having a canonical queer character in such an old and well known franchise had on me as a kid, and how reading Oz books helped me feel like I was stepping into a safe place, but tbh I’m kinda stuck on the amount of batshit she got herself into in the second book. Wild.

By the way, all of this was written in the 1900s, the decade, not the century. Frank Baum was a real one.

[leafith]

The Eye of Eden (1); 1-2-3-4-5-6

(each paragraph is a chapter!!)

The day later, Sentinekka wakes up and, after writing and sending a letter to the Passage Stone, for Ojtaro, reaches the Gate of the Eden. She lights up the mechanism for the entrance of the last realm but, before getting in, she goes to the Map Shrine. A Map Shrine is a stone that, once seen by any Sky Child, creates a mal inside its head. So, the Child can remember always where to go. This system was made by Lamed mostly, many centuries ago, and she placed Shrines in the Eden right before the wars. Looks like she already knew the future. When she memorizes the map of the Eden, the girl finally enters inside the realm.

In her letter, Sentinekka told Oj' and the others about what Lamed has told her (not about her real mission ofc-): the Rebirth and that Oj' will have to stay a nice child to not make the Gods mad. And that the Elders love him and blah blah blah. She has also noticed that the Gate of Eden doesn't have the face of Daleth, Isle Elder, on it. There are the masks of every Elder, except Daleth. And she wonders what happened between father and son, while she takes steps and steps. She won't stop. The stones that fall on the Eye of Eden won't stop her, and so is for the cold wind. When she finally reaches a ruined structure with a fire-place/container (dunno how to call those things, they are like lanterns??) that was probably a welcoming place once, a new Child calls for her. The Child is called Guwa, and she's a Messenger of the Stars.

For the ones who didn't see this post, in which I spoke about the Guides' Reunions and about Messengers of the Stars, here's an image that shortly explains.

But, now, to the 3rd Chapter of Eden (1)!

Guwa is a curious mf so she keeps asking questions. Long story short, Sentinekka decides to trust the Messenger and to tell her her real mission. As she hears that Sen' needs to save King Resh, Guwa loses some trust in Sentinekka. But she still decides to help her, since she knows that Lamed wouldn't do such stupid things if there wasn't a true reason. But Sen' will have to tell her more, much more than what she just said. So they continue their journey together.

Sentinekka has told Guwa more about her mission, about Ojtaro and more... And Guwa seems excited at the idea of having as a companion a friend of the Descendant of the Elders, the One who doesn't want his role. The One that, as her Messenger friends say, is very good looking. And stuff like that. So she keeps asking more questions to Sentinekka, until they begin to speak about the King. Sen' has never known how the King behaved for real, and she's very curious to know it. So they keep walking until they reach a small temple with a rose quarts-colored door, which will bring them to a new place. But! Instead of going straight to the continuation of the journey, Guwa tells Sentinekka light up some candles that are on a stone. And the girl does it. An illustration of the King, using his dangerous power of Darkness and Corruption that has even killed Samekh centuries ago, appears; but, when Guwa touches it, it changes subject (go back to the image and read point 3!!). And Guwa asks Sen' if she has ever heard of the Aviary Village. And how it was discovered.

And they witness a flashback, which tells the story of how the Elders, during a naval expedition, found the Aviary Village, a now forgotten realm. But what happened to it...? That's what she wonders. King Resh loved to sail. Tsadi was really silent, strangely. And when they all found the Island of the Aviary, that day, it was the first time Lamed has her visions about the Kingdom's Corruption. About the future. After the story of the mural, shown by Guwa's powers, Sentinekka is even more concerned. She begs Guwa to continue the journey, despite the fact that they haven't even slept yet.

Ya know the pipe-looking structure in which you meet a Krill for the first time in Eden? Yea, they are here... And they almost got Krilled. But they are alive, and Guwa keeps asking questions on questions about Oj'. Is he brave?? (Sentinekka says that he probably is); Did Sentinekka take her courage from him??? (Yep); Does he know that she's in the Eden because of the King??? (Hell Nah); If he knew that, would he be brave enough to go and "save her"???? (Probably??); Sen' and Oj' would be a great couple right????? (Yeah, yeah, everyone except Symphony say it anyways). Stuff like that.

[jiliansky-blog]

The Labyrinth of Dreams. Chapter 1. King of goblins

Pairing: Morpheus x FemaleReader

Rating: PG

Words: 1480

Summary: The idea of crossover came to me after a few arts and rewatching Labyrinth (1986). Jareth is a nightmare and while Morpheus was captured, he escaped to reality. And he wants to take down Morpheus. Elisabeth is a daughter of Sarah and want to find Labyrinth. And Jareth wants to use her against Morpheus. But something went wrong...

I was looking into a crystal with irritation. Morpheus was back. And now my time as a real thing was gone. While he was away, I could live whatever I liked. Outside the labyrinth. Not exist only in girls' dreams of escape. Now he will lock me up in the labyrinth again. But this time I won’t make it easy for him. I have my own little nightmare kingdom to rule. And maybe, I can make Morpheus pay for everything. I just need to find someone who helps me.

And I knew who could. The daughter of my precious Sarah. She was eighteen years old already. And she looks like just her mother. Maybe, she will be more agreeable than her mother. And I also can send “hello” to Sarah as well. Elisabeth, her name, is such a dreamer. Just like her mother again. She wants to have a fantasy dream and I will give it to her. And I know that Morpheus will be charmed by her. And do everything, especially if he thinks that she is my prisoner.

Elisabeth “Mom, when I can get into this world of yours?” I asked, looking through the books. My mother actually wrote her own story about the Labyrinth and illustrated it herself. She wanted once to be an actress just like her mother, my grandmother, who I’ve never known. But her wish disappeared after the Labyrinth and the school play. And she wanted to be the children's writer and illustrator. I couldn’t blame her for this. I’ve grown up on her books and stories. “How I can get here?” I asked.

“I think, you already forgot about it”, she said. “I didn’t tell you the story for a long time. And you are grown up already”. “Anyway”, I said. “I'm still interested in this”, I said. “You shouldn’t wish for this”, she said firmly. “I said foolishly once about taking my stepbrother. And he took him. He can listen to you too”. “Well, you can make him go away, so can I”, I smiled. “Oh, Beth”, she sighed. “There is nothing for you there. He is not a charming prince. He is cruel and can steal you away”. “I don’t want to be with him”, I assured her. “I just want to see his world myself”.

“Why?” she asked. “It’s not beautiful. You can’t even find the way out”. “If you can find the way, I can find the way too”, I denied. “Perhaps, I can even meet your old friends. It would be…” “No!” This time her voice was sharp. “You need to know, I made this all up. Because I was lonely after my mother’s death and felt like Cinderella”. “What?” I asked surprised. “I didn’t want to upset you”, she sighed again. “It was just a story. And I want you to move on and live an ordinary life”.

“Then why do you make me believe in this story all this time?” I asked, not quite believing her this time. It was too sudden. “You need to understand, Elisabeth”, mother said. “Your belief in magic is charming, but you need…you don’t need to prevent it from living your real life”. “I can’t believe”, I said and stepped back. “And I don’t know what is worse. The you could lie to me, or you to break everything I believe in”.

“Beth…”, she said softly. “Because of course all the conversations that grandpa made with you help you grow up, don’t?” I asked and went to the door. “Beth, come back!” she called. “I’m not Beth!” I replied. “I’m Elisa”. And I angrily leave my parent’s house.

Morpheus “We have a problem, my lord”, said Lucienne, when I was trying to create a new dream.

“What else, Lucienne?” I looked at her. “It's Jareth, my lord”, she said. “He returned to the Labyrinth”. “And why this is a problem?” I asked. “He supposed to stay there”. “Yes, I know, but while you were away he escaped and had affairs with the human woman”, she said. “And now some of the nightmares gathered there”. “They gathered in the Labyrinth?” I asked. “Why?” “I think he is up to something”, the librarian said. “He may not be as obvious as Corinthian and may more be subtle”. “Corinthian tried to communicate to Vortex”, I said. “It wasn’t subtle”. “Anyway”, she answered. “I would suggest looking after him”. “I will, Lucienne”, I nodded. “Thank you for telling me”.

She nodded also and left. And I sighed. Another rebellion Nightmare. He should provide a sweet escape for lost girls. And now what does he want? I dissolved a new dream because I couldn’t concentrate on my work anymore. I need to check him and see myself. Jareth wasn’t surprised to see me in his castle when I appeared. He was sitting on his improvised throne and smirking. “What’s so funny?” I asked. “I was just thinking, when you will pay me the visit”, he replied. “Don’t you try to go through the labyrinth? It would be so much fun”. “I know all your tricks, king of goblins”, I said. “And I don’t need to go through your labyrinth for this is my kingdom. And you are still my subject”.

“And you come all this way to remind me of this, my lord?” he asked sarcastically. “I almost forgot, while you were…gone”. “I’m here now”, I admitted. “And I heard that in your castle some nightmares found the shelter. Why?” “You told it yourself, lord Morpheus”, he smirked. “They want a shelter. They want a leader. At least, while you were gone”. “I hope, you won’t be foolish enough to make a stupid decision”, I said coldly. “Like make a rebellion. I’m still king of dreams and nightmares”. “Of course, you are”, he said. “I don’t want to repeat the fate of Corinthian”. “Good”, I nodded and went back to the castle.

Jareth Morpheus getting suspicious, but it doesn’t change anything. He won’t see what’s coming. And as far as I can see, little Elisabeth has a fight with Sarah. Just like her mother did before she went to the Labyrinth. Perfect time to interfere.

Elisabeth I can’t believe she told me that. She made me believe that everything in Labyrinth happened in real. And now she told me it was a lie. It just doesn’t make sense. It doesn’t matter. I will find a way to prove that everything is real. I will bring something from that place. Mother not only gifted me her book, but her copy of the original book. It was another story of the princess Sarah, who got into the Labyrinth. And she also faced Jareth, the Goblin king. So if my mother could get there, then another girl was there too. And she probably left too and took the child that Jareth had stolen. I didn’t know what I would do in their place. Perhaps, I would stay and can turn this unwelcome and hostile labyrinth into something else. Something far more beautiful. And with these thoughts, I fell asleep. Some noise wakes me up. And when I opened my eyes and turned on the light I saw that the window was open. It was strange. When I closed it, I sensed someone’s presence in the room. And turned around slowly.

“Hello, Elisabeth”, the stranger said. It was a man tall man in dark sparkly clothes. His hair was messy and white. Eyes were grey and cold. He wasn’t handsome but was charming. “It is you”, I said. “You're the Goblin king, aren’t you?”

“Yes”, he smirked. “My name is Jareth”. “I didn’t call you to steal some of my family”, I admitted. “But you were thinking about me”, he smiled. “Sarah…Your mother told you about me. She told a story about it”. “Yes”, I nodded. “What do you want then? An act of revenge?” “I want to make you my queen”, he smiled. “I know what you dream about. Adventures, love, to have an interesting life in another world”. “Is that some sort of trick?” I asked. “No, I can give you all of that”, Jareth said. “And in return, you will help me with something. To defeat someone who can threaten our life”.

«Our life?” I asked, confused. “Yes”, he nodded. “You will be the queen of my kingdom. You can rearrange it however you want. What do you say?” It was a temptation. But my mother’s voice echoed through my head. She said don’t call for Jareth. And here he is. Anyway. And I always want to find the Labyrinth. And that’s it. My chance. “I agree”, I said. “Good”, he smiled. “You look like your mother. But you are not like her at the same time. Then come with me, future queen of mine”. He gave me a hand and I took it. That was the adventure I was waiting for.

@shadowqueen1318 @mypsychoticlove @justathirstyhoe​ @ladymoztaza