#but realizing that it's not nearly as intimidating as some people have made it sound

[yiddishfisting]

i'm sure there are works that are much longer/there's a Lot of material out there in general but it keeps surprising me how like. short some of this stuff is. ~200 pages really isn't bad!

but i always always hear ppl saying theory is just way too hard to understand so they don't bother to try which made me think every single work on communism was 800 pages of the most dense 9 point font type writing you've ever seen. so it's really helpful to my reading drive to find out this isn't true

[dollyoons]

𝐊𝐋𝐔𝐓𝐙.

━━ 𝓌𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘪𝘯 𓈒𓈒𓈒 𝗆𝖾𝗀𝖺𝗇 𝖻𝖾𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗄𝗅𝗎𝗍𝗓 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝗂𝗌, 𝗌𝗉𝗂𝗅𝗅𝗌 𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗅𝖺𝗍𝗍𝖾 𝗈𝗇 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝖽𝖺𝗒, 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝖾𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝖺𝖿𝗍𝖾𝗋 𖥔 𝖿! 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋 𝗑 𝗆𝖾𝗀𝖺𝗇 𝗌𝗄𝗂𝖾𝗇𝖽𝗂𝖾𝗅 ౨ৎ 𝗆𝗎𝗍𝗎𝖺𝗅 𝗉𝗂𝗇𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗌2𝗅 ┊ 𝓌𝘢𝘳𝘯. 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝗌𝗅𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍𝗅𝗒 𝗌𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖾𝗆𝖻𝖺𝗋𝗋𝖺𝗌𝗌𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝖿𝗋𝗈𝗆 𝗆𝖾𝗀𝖺𝗇, 𝖻𝗎𝗍 𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗇𝗈𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝗎𝖼𝗁

𝒏𝐨𝐭𝐞. lol sorry for lowkey disappearing on this account...but hey!! enjoy this hehe ^^

MEGAN WAS EXTREMELY CLUMSY, and she knew that. Among her group of friends, she was always voted as the biggest klutz of the group. Not only that, but she was also painfully awkward around other people, even if she didn't mean to make the atmosphere so awkward. 

Though, she supposes that her clumsiness and awkward nature is what got her your number. Was it an ideal situation? No, because accidentally bumping into you—who was the epitome of an angel—and spilling her extremely hot latte on you isn't exactly…the perfect way to meet the love of your life.

Megan had replayed the situation more times than she'd like to admit. It had been a chaotic blur of apologies, napkins, and shock. She expected you to yell, storm off, or at the very least shoot an intimidating glare at her for ruining your shirt (and your day). But instead, you were oddly polite about the whole thing. 

“I'm sorry! I didn't mean to, I swear!” She stammered, quickly grabbing napkins from the nearest table and handing them to you. 

“Are you okay?” You asked, even as you dabbed at your damp top with a resigned sigh. 

Megan looked at you eye to eye, stunned at your simple question. She felt her face growing hotter by the second, feeling like the very same drink that she had spilled on you. “Me? I just dumped an entire drink on you, and you're asking me if I’m okay?!” she blurted, not realizing how stupid she sounded.

But, you only laughed—a soft, warm sound that only made the situation more unbearable. Or maybe it had made it better. Megan wasn't sure.

“Accidents happen,” you said with a shrug. “At least it was a pretty girl who spilled her latte on me, and not some asshole of a guy who would probably blame me!” You giggled, also making Megan let out a small chuckle. 

“But, if it'll make you feel less guilty, maybe you could give me your number? You know, in case I need to send you a dry cleaning bill or something.” 

Megan had agreed far too quickly, rapidly nodding her head as she fumbled for her phone, nearly dropping it twice before successfully typing in her digits. And since then, she's alternated from cringing and crashing out at her own actions and nervously checking her phone for any notification from you. 

Until, it came.

UNKNOWN NUMBER: hey latte girl! it’s y/n :) or, i mean, the one you spilled your latte on the other week lol. hopefully i didn't catch you at a bad time or anything…are you by any chance free this friday though? 

Her heart skipped a beat as she stared at the message, her thumbs hovering hesitantly over her screen. So many thoughts running through her head at once—though she knows she shouldn't be overthinking it. 

The typing bubble popped up on her screen again, indicating that you were typing out another message. 

Ding! 

UNKNOWN NUMBER: sorry if this is a little…weird lmao. it's totally fine if you don't want to meet up on friday or if you have something better to do! 

UNKNOWN NUMBER: i don't wanna sound like a creep at all haha…

She giggled at her screen, feeling a little less nervous to shoot you a reply. Mindlessly, she started typing. 

hey! you aren't weird or a creep at all i promise lmao. friday works for me :) and i swear i wont bring any hot beverages to spill on you this time. 

Your reply came almost immediately. 

UNKNOWN NUMBER: LMFAO yeah…i don't think my wardrobe could handle another stain considering how clumsy i am at home. see you at 7? 

Friday at 7 Megan replied, smiling a little too hard at her phone. 

But although she scored a meetup with you, Megan had spent the rest of her week in a haze of nervous anticipation. She couldn't count the amount of times she had called Lara and Daniela to come over and help her plan an outfit. 

She kept telling herself that it wasn't at all a date—but rather a simple hangout over the whole latte incident and that you were just being kind—but deep down, she hoped it was something more. 

Friday came faster than she expected, and Megan found herself standing outside the café you’d suggested, nervously smoothing her top. She was determined to make a better impression this time—no spilled drinks, no awkward stammering, and no clumsy mishaps.

At least, that was the plan. 

“Hey, Latte Girl,” you said with a smile as you approached, and Megan’s heart skipped a beat.

“Hi,” she managed, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. “And, uh, just for the record, I promise to keep all drinks at a safe distance tonight.”

You laughed, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Megan didn’t feel awkward or out of place. But rather she felt comfortable and herself being around you. 

And maybe, her clumsiness wasn't a curse at all.

[novemberheart]

Chapter 2 <- Chapter 3 -> Chapter 4

{Overview} An interaction between Kyle and Johnny opens your eyes to your roommates.

{warnings} Soapgaz!!!!! Depictions or break ins and uncomfortable situations, reader being harassed, no s/a but intimidation and stalking written

You’ve always had a hard time finding your way in life. It felt as though everyone around you just gets up everyday and knows exactly what they are going to do- what they are going to accomplish. Take your work life for example. You’ve done just about every job in the book. You’ve been a barista, you went to fashion school (for a month). You’ve been a dog walker, a nanny, a personal shopper, person stylist, you even worked at a campsite. After facing pressure from your family you finally decided to go back to school and ended up getting a degree in psychology. You completed about seven months of your supervised training before you felt like you made a mistake.

Your mentors were decent, but you always felt like they could tell you were a dropout. They offered you little support- likely knowing it would be a waste.

Lucky for you, you have an Aunt Kate. Whilst she never understood your inability to settle she supported you nonetheless. So when she heard the veterans facility down the road needed a new art therapist, who else was she to think of?

They didn’t care that you lacked some much needed and required experience. You weren’t particularly crafty, but you were a quick learner. You were hired nearly on the spot (which could be perceived as a red flag) and you quickly hopped on a plane to England(or drove).

Your first day you realized why it had been so challenging for them to fill the spot. They were insufferable. Grumpy, angry and entitled. It was like that for weeks. They would never do any activities you set up, just lash out and complain. Then one day you lost it. You yelled at them. A room filled to the hilt of 20+ veterans who stared at you, a young woman, with their eyes like saucers.

You quickly became their favorite after that.

For the first time ever you found your niche. The last thing you wanted to do was loose it. But problems arose at home. The first break in was “your” fault. You had burned some popcorn and had left the window open, forgetting about it as you popped over to the store. When you came back your microwave, TV and charging cables were gone. You couldn’t sleep for weeks after that. Every little sound caused you to fly straight up in your bed. You slept with the lights on and barricaded your door every night. You hid it from Kate and your family- not wanting to worry them. You had finally began to feel safe again and Kate invited you on a weekend away in the countryside to celebrate a pay raise for her and two months at a job for you. When you came back your door was ajar.

This time Kate was with you. You were thankful for that. Nothing was missing, but your apartment had been turned upside down. Rotted food from the fridge being left open. They had smashed all your lamps and lightbulbs. Your bed had been flipped, your sheets shredded. They had also flooded your toilet with tissue paper. It felt hateful. You had no idea if it was the same people as before or maybe your apartment was just a target now.

The outside world started to turn against you too. You never minded taking public transportation, until people seemed to recognize your pattern. One night a man who had always sat rows in front of you decided to sit right next to you, sandwiching you between the window. While his hands never touched you, he slowly scooted closer and closer and closer. You were tired of feeling helpless. You stood up and screamed. As loud of you could. It was effective. The man tumbled away from you as fast as he could and you never saw him again. You filed a report with the police- well you told them about it but who knows if it actually went anywhere.

A few days later you were followed. You had gotten on the train that morning and noticed a hooded figure that you hadn’t seen before. Just the sight of it put knots in your stomach. You made it into work and had forgotten about it, until the next morning.

You called the police later, not that you could give much of a description. You stayed with Kate in a hotel that night, spilling your guts. She remained tight lipped, trying not to scare you. She felt sick. She had always been so protective of those she loved and she felt as though she had failed.

“I might know a place you could stay. Until you get enough cash for a down payment.”

You quickly shot down the idea.

Until the third break in. It happened at night. Interestingly enough on a night you felt comfortable. It was early in the AM when the creak of the window hinges woke you up. You didn’t even need to see what was going on before you started screaming. It had become a defense mechanism now. It had worked for you before, why not now? You sprung out of bed and grabbed the bear spray that laid next to you, charging out into the living room. You refused to go down without a fight. Two large figures had just crossed the threshold and you quickly made yourself known. You grabbed the crowbar next to the bedroom door and started swinging- all while spraying bear spray and screaming. It was like something out of the exorcist, but you didn’t care. This could be life or death. One of them reached for you, but was quickly pulled away by their friend, scrambling back out the window. You didn’t stop til they disappeared down the street.

You didn’t need to call the police this time. About six of your neighbors did it for you.

You had no other options. Everything was out of your price range and you were still a paying off student loans. The few places that were available were too far away from your beloved job or in just as bad areas as the one you were in now.

You called Kate with a hoarse voice begging her for help. She didn’t hesitate.

“How’d you sleep?” John asked, just as you passed the threshold of the kitchen.

“Good, thank you.” You chirped, beginning to stuff some snacks into your bag for work. “Got most of my unpacking done, not that there’s a lot.” You sighed.

“That reminds me, we each have our days for laundry. Does Wednesday or Friday work for you?” Your lips quirked out how well organized they were. You could easily imagine how they ran at work. “Honey?” He added, shaking you out of your thoughts.

“Wednesday. Wednesday works.” You smiled. He nodded his head in affirmation going back to his bowl of cereal. “I didn’t take you to be a cereal for breakfast type of guy. You seem more like bacon and eggs.”

He chuckled, tapping the box of cinnamon flavored cereal. “Guilty pleasure. Breakfast number two comes in around nine.”

You rolled your eyes playfully, filling up your water bottle. “See you later?” You questioned. He nodded his head quickly, a raspy ‘have a good day’ escaping him.

“Sooooooo Bon. You never quite explained to us what you do?” Johnny hummed.

“Let her get in the door, Johnny. Christsakes.” Simon huffed from the couch. You slipped off your shoes placing them neatly next to a pair of work boots. Johnny felt his chest tighten at the sight. He was half tempted to race upstairs and grab his sketchbook. Your prim and proper shoes next to their beat up death boots. Just looked right.

“I’m an art therapist at the veterans center.” You replied. He pulled himself out of his head, an even wider grin spreading across his face.

“That’s sick, Bon.” He followed you to the kitchen, where you began unloading your takeout. You still didn’t know what time they cooked dinner and you didn’t want to be in their way.

“Glad you think so. I really love it, well at the beginning I hated it.” You admitted.

“Forks are in the drawer next to the fridge.” Simon said, standing up from the couch. He made his way towards the kitchen grabbing a protein bar from the pantry.

“Thank you.” You dug one out of the (of course) neatly put together drawer.

“You hated it?” Johnny pressed, sitting down at one of the stools.

“Yeah, they were so mean to me. They would seriously tell me to “fuck off.”” You gawked. Simon snorted. Your eyes glanced up to meet his, before settling on Johnnys wide eyes.

“Way to represent.” The Scot muttered. You giggled, waving a hand in dismissal.

“That was just the older class. Most of them are seventy five and up. They have no patience for anything.” You snickered. “They like me now though.”

“How’d you manage that.” Simon interjected.

“I yelled at them. You all respond very well to negative reinforcement.” You hummed.

“What about your other groups?” Johnny asked. “What are they like?”

“Well they switch out of lot. Most of my other groups are soldiers who are required to take the class, as a ‘rehabilitation’ of sorts. We mostly just try to focus on healthy coping and self regulation methods. The art is just a distraction to get down to how they really feel.” You explained, beginning to dig into your spaghetti.

The men before you softened, sharing a quick glance with each other when you weren’t looking.

“Can I take the class?” Johnny asked suddenly. Your head shot up. Your first reaction was to tell him no. You didn’t want any judgment. Then you realized how unethical it was to deny someone.

“Of course.” You scrambled. “Although I recommend you come to the old timers club that meets every Tuesday and Thursday, eight am. They love talking to people in active duty.”

A sweet smile spread across Johnny’s features as he tapped his hand against the counter.

“It’s a date then.”

You fought hard against the blush and lost.

After you finished your spaghetti you worked your way upstairs. You were at the top of them when the front door opened. You dodged out of sight, but stayed close enough so you could peak down. Kyle and John were just getting home, both wearing workout clothes. You could hear someone bounding through the house and watched as Kyle steady himself, bracing for impact. Your eyebrows nestled together, waiting. Finally, Johnny came into view, throwing himself at Kyle. You smile grin spread on your face at the affection, but quickly turned into one of shock as Johnny opened his mouth, licking from Kyle’s neck up to his cheek.

“Shove off.” Kyle gagged, wiping at his face with his own grin. “Disgusting.” He grumbled, still trying to work out of Johnny’s grasp.

“I just love you.” You faintly heard Johnny murmur. He began peppering kisses on any skin he could reach and you watched as Kyle’s muscles relax.

“Not in the hallway you two.” John spoke up, patting both men. They whined- both for different reasons, stumbling into the living room still connected. John followed after them but not before his eyes darted up the stairs. He must’ve felt eyes on them. You dodged out of the way as quickly as possible, holding your breath. You stayed still for a moment before tiptoeing to your room.

As you laid in bed you wondered how you didn’t connect the dots sooner. All the things you witnessed but didn’t think twice about. The soft glances, how they always seemed to have a hand on each other. You wanted to know the dynamics.

How did this start? Whose idea was it? Do they all fuck each other or is it just a one on one situation? Maybe the room arrangements were the answer. Based off of that it would be Kyle with Johnny and John with Simon. But John and Simon were affectionate with the other two as well.

Your mind wandered through the late hours of night. Your mind growing more and more exhausted. You could almost imagine it. Them together. Tangled together, their muscled bodies rippling from pleasure and exertion.

You assumed John would be in charge. You could imagine him making sure everyone was getting the attention they deserved. Or maybe he would want to take the back seat for once. Who would step up then? You want to say Simon just based off of his demeanor, but you think Kyle would be good in that position. He is calm, gentle, but has underlying passion in everything he does. You could also picture Johnny running the show in his own way. Or maybe you were making this kinkier than it was. Maybe it was a mutual give and take? That’s how they seemed to be. Everything from their style to personalities blended seamlessly together.

You ignored the tightening in your stomach and rolled over pressing yourself further in your cozy bed.

“Sorry about last night.” Your head perked up from your laptop, to stare at John. You stared at him expectantly, before realizing what he was talking about. So you weren’t as slick as you thought you were.

“Please don’t apologize. This is your house.” You insisted, waving him off gently. He looked a bit relieved, as he sat down from across from you, his own laptop in his hands.

“Johnny likes to make a show.” He explained, a quirk in his lips. So Johnny knew you were there? Of course they did. These were men who had years of training under their belt. To think you were being sneaky.

“Well I should be the one apologizing. Creeping around like that.” You huffed in apologies. He chuckled, softly shaking his head in disagreement.

“Not to worry, Honey.” He assured, opening up his laptop.

“If you want another show I’ll be happy to provide.” You jumped as Johnny snuck around the corner. You could feel your ears begin to burn and the only thing you could think to do was giggle. John shot him a stern look, but Johnny paid little mind. He plopped down next to John spreading out various sketchbook and opening a silver tin filled with different sizes of charcoal.

“You get that all over the table again Simon’ll get you.” John warned.

“He’ll have to catch me first.” He hummed without a worry. All of you worked in a comfortable silence. John typed away on his computer, drifting away every so often to grab a new stack of papers to work on. Johnny was zeroed in and you doubted a tornado could break his concentration. His eyebrows furrowed and eyes squinted as he leaned over the table. His hands were blotched with black marks, and his tongue poked out of the very corner of his mouth. Your finger itched to rub the creases out of his brows and crows feet.

Suddenly his eyes glanced over to you, causing you to quickly shift back to your computer. You waited for him to call you out but it never came. Instead when you peaked at him over your computer he flashed you a smirk, his eyes swirling with mischief.

“Would you like to join us for dinner, Honey?” John asked, breaking your stare down with Johnny.

“Oh that’s okay. I don’t want to intrude.” You said a slight grimace on your face. The two men looked slightly offended.

“It’s Tuesday, Bonnie. It’s pizza night.” Johnny whispered like it was a secret. John nodded his head.

“We’re going to eat out back again. It’s a nice night out and we have all the ingredients.” John coerced. Your teeth sunk into your lip, your stomach twisting in hunger.

“If it’s no trouble.” You pressed. The last thing you wanted was to become a burden.

“It’s only trouble if you like pineapple on it, Bon.”

Hi friends! Hope you liked this chapter. (sorry it took so long to get up!) This was more reader based and kinda boring but it’s a necessary evil! See you next time! 🥰

[blue-blue-blooms]

The First Date

Eddie Munson x Reader

Summary: Your first date with Eddie doesn't go exactly as planned after you and your friends get taken and drugged by Russian spies, making him think that you stood him up.

Warnings: A little bit of angst.

2k words

Eddie Munson.

You'd seen him around school. He was loud, rough, and slightly intimidating. 

The first time you saw him was in the cafeteria, loudly speaking about the throes of capitalism, forced conformity, and the demonization of people whom society deemed 'different'. You mostly tuned people out during lunch, but it was hard to ignore Eddie. He was so captivating. You weren't sure if it was the way he used his entire body when making a point, aggressively gesticulating, or the way his face twisted and turned as he spoke, or just his general demeanor, that made everything he said sound so poignant. He hadn't really been in your orbit before, so outside your social circle. You were friends with people like Steve Harrington and Nancy Wheeler, not necessarily because you were popular but rather through shared trauma. There was something about going through life-altering events and near-death experiences that really bonded people for life. 

The first time you spoke to Eddie was after you saw him taping a poster on a bulletin board outside the auditorium. 

Hellfire Club. D&D. 

"Hey, is that a D&D club?" you asked him.

He turned around, slightly startled, and looked at you with surprise. 

"Oh, hey! Didn't see you there. Yeah, it's a D&D club. I'm trying to recruit new members since we're running a bit low..." He replied, giving you a hesitant smile. 

He seemed a bit nervous, slightly tugging on his hair and anxiously tapping his foot. You're pretty sure you were making him nervous. You'd seen the way people like Steve treated people like Eddie, even though Steve had grown considerably after taking out a Demogorgon and watching his girlfriend nearly die. You'd seen the way Tommy and Carol used to laugh at the 'freaks', shoving them around in the hallways, making fun of their interests, like the time Tommy made someone in the band cry during a pep rally. The realization that Eddie was nervous because he expected you to do the same slightly hurt. 

"That's cool! This kid that I babysit—his name's Dustin, he really likes D&D. He plays it a lot with his other friends. Whenever I used to babysit him, he'd drag me to their games. I never really got it, mostly because any time I asked a question, Dustin would scream at me," you breathlessly ramble, "He's not a huge fan of anyone who doesn't get the point, like, right away."

It seemed that the more you rambled, the more at ease Eddie became, and suddenly he was laughing as you spoke. 

"Well, I promise that we don't yell at anyone in Hellfire. Only when we're excited," Eddie said, a small smile lingering on his lips as he looked at you, "Just in case you ever wanna join in."

"I might take you up on that offer. I've been pegged down the list of 'coolest teens' that Dustin knows, and my ego's taken a hit," you joked. 

You hadn't ended up joining Hellfire. But you and Eddie had become sort of friends. You'd see him around school. You were both in some of the same classes, you'd see him in the hallways and you'd wave at each other. Sometimes you'd see him in the parking lot after school and you'd chat for a bit. But that was the extent of it. You didn't grow closer until summer started and you got a job at Starcourt. You worked at Café Nocturne, right across from Scoops Ahoy where Steve had started working. Most days, you spent your lunch break lounging around Scoops Ahoy, eating free ice cream, and making fun of Steve with his co-worker Robin. Sometimes you wondered what Eddie was up to, not having seen him since summer started, and you found yourself hoping you'd see him around Starcourt. 

It wasn't until the second week of summer that you saw Eddie. The Café had been relatively quiet, only an old couple sitting in the far corner drinking lattes. You were trying to pass the time by making random drinks when you saw Eddie lingering by the cash register. 

"Eddie!" you said, surprising yourself by how loud you were. You cleared your throat awkwardly and shuffled over to him, sending him a shy smile. 

"Y/N? Hey, I didn't know you worked here," Eddie said, rubbing the back of his neck nervously, "It's nice to see you again, I was wondering where you went."

"Oh, just been making coffee...hanging out with my friends," you replied, "How's your summer been so far?"

"Erm, yeah, it's been okay. I've just been working, hanging out with Gareth and Jeff, writing some new music," Eddie replied.

"For Corroded Coffin, right?" you asked.

"Yeah, wow, how'd you know about that?" Eddie said, nervously twirling his hair. 

"Oh-um...I heard you talking about it in the cafeteria once," you responded, hoping you didn't sound like a stalker.

"Right, yeah, you should come see us sometime. We play in the Hide Out every Tuesday," Eddie said, as a shy grin crept on his face, "We kinda get a crowd, actually...of about five drunks."

You let out a small giggle, "That sounds nice. Unfortunately, I work every Tuesday. Maybe when school starts?" 

Eddie was slightly deflated at that, nodding his head in understanding. Not wanting to ruin your one chance at spending time with Eddie this summer, you hesitatingly asked, "Maybe we can hang out sometime? You could teach me D&D? I didn't get the chance to learn when you first offered..."

Eddie immediately perked up at that, nodding vigorously as he said, "Yeah! Yeah, that'd be great. I can totally do that. Erm, do you wanna meet here tomorrow at 7? We could grab some food-"

"Oh, I was hoping we could meet somewhere else. Maybe at Patty's diner? It's just that I spend all my time at Starcourt," you responded.

"Yeah, that works. Patty's at 7. It's a date," Eddie replied, before quickly backtracking. "Not like a date-date, I just meant, like, a platonic date. Like just friends hanging out, chilling, y'know? Unless you want it to be a date? It doesn't have to be! But, like-"

You cut him off before he could dig further into the hole he found himself in, giggling a little at how flustered he looked. "It's a date. A non-platonic, hopefully romantic, date."

"That's...that's great, yeah. I will see you then," Eddie said breathlessly, shuffling his way out as he raised a hand to wave goodbye, almost knocking into the table behind him as he left.

God, he's adorable. 

♡♡♡

"I swear to God Dustin, if we die in this elevator, I will strangle you with my bare hands," you grit out, pacing back and forth as everyone tried to reel in their panic, "I have a fucking date in two hours and if I miss it, I will literally end you."

"No one gives a shit about your stupid date," Dustin yelled, throwing his hands around wildly as Erica slammed a bottle of weird-looking fluid on the wall. You weren't even gonna try and deal with that, it looked like Robin had it handled as you watched her snatch the bottle from Erica's hands. 

Things escalated pretty quickly from there and suddenly you were lying on the floor of a bathroom cubicle, trying to make the room stop spinning. 

"Is this what it feels like to do drugs?" you groaned out, stretching on the disgusting tiles and praying that your head stopped pounding. 

"I wouldn't know," Robin replied, "But if it is, this sucks."

"Steve? Are you alive?" you asked, "I don't need you dying on me. You're my ride home." 

"I'm good," you heard him croak.

"Think we puked it all out?" you asked.

"Let's check...interrogate me." Robin said.

"When's the last time you peed your pants?" Steve asked, and you heard Robin let out a cackle, "Today."

"What the fuck, Robin?" you laughed.

"It was when they took out the bone saw. And only a little!" she defended herself, giggling with you. 

"I'm meant to be on a date," you moaned, "He's gonna think I stood him up. How am I meant to explain this shit?" 

"We'll figure it out," Steve replied, "Also, who's this guy anyway? You've been moaning about missing this date for, like, hours?"

"Yeah, it's getting kinda annoying," Robin added. 

"It's Eddie." you replied, crawling into the stall next to you and sitting down in front of Robin. "Eddie Munson. He's a senior. Long, curly, untamed hair. Really loud. Plays D&D."

"Wait, Eddie 'The Freak' Munson? Isn't he a drug dealer?" Steve asked, a little surprised. 

"Don't call him that!" you said, slightly defensive, "And I didn't know that. But if this is what drug consumption is like then he needs to stop."

As the drugs slowly purged out of your systems, and Steve tried to hit on Robin only to get rejected and have a heart-to-heart, the three of you found yourselves giggling hysterically in the dingy bathroom. It wasn't long until Dustin and Erica burst in and dragged you all out. As the night progressed, things only got worse. And soon, all of you were facing off a thirty-feet tall Mind Flayer and reeling from the loss that followed. Then the dust settled, a different story was fabricated, and everyone had to pretend to move on. And you had an apology to give.

♡♡♡

You didn't see Eddie until school started again. It was the first day back, hallways busy and bustling as the freshmen teetered around cluelessly. This year felt different, like there was some cosmic shift in the air. Everything seemed duller, void of any feeling. You weren't sure what it was exactly, but if you had to guess then it was probably the Starcourt 'fire' that had brought on this change. Things weren't the same after. It was like all of Hawkins was reeling from the loss, despite not having known the truth. You wished that you'd been oblivious. Maybe then everything wouldn't hurt this much. 

You didn't see Eddie around school until lunch. You were almost sure he was avoiding you. You finally saw him lingering in the hallway by his locker, putting some books in, and you immediately made a beeline for him. 

"Eddie!" you called, startling him as he looked up. 

You walked over before he could say anything, "I've been looking all over for you! I'm so sorry I couldn't make it to Patty's. I wanted to explain everything over the summer, but my parents grounded me, which was incredibly annoying since I didn't even do anything. But I think they were just super paranoid and didn't know what else to do and I didn't have your number so I couldn't call you and-"

Your rambling was cut off by Eddie as he held up his hands and dismissively waved, "It's cool, it's fine. Honestly, I don't know why I thought you would show up. If it was some joke or whatever, like, it's...whatever."

"What? No! That wasn't some joke. I really wanted to go on that date, but you know what happened at Starcourt, right?" you anxiously spoke.

"The fire? I don't see what that has to do with anything. Doesn't your shift end at 5?" Eddie asked skeptically. 

"Yes, yes it does! But I usually hang out at Scoops Ahoy because Steve's my ride home. I was doing that and then the whole fire thing happened, and I just got caught up in all of that, and then, y'know the house arrest? My parents thought if I stepped outside, I'd die or something," you quickly explained, "I promise I didn't stand you up!"

Eddie looked at you for a while until a small smile crept up on his face, "Relax, I believe you."

You immediately let out a sigh of relief, "I promise I'm not an asshole." 

There were a few moments of silence that stretched between you two until Eddie finally spoke, "I'm sorry about what happened. That must've been horrifying."

You don't know the half of it. 

You let out a nervous chuckle, "Erm, yeah, it was. But I've had some time to recover."

"How about we re-do that date?" Eddie asked, "Except this time I'm gonna pick you up, can't imagine the types of trouble you get into when I'm not around."

"Sounds good, Eds." you smiled, leaning forward to give him a quick peck on the cheek. As you broke away, you could see a small blush settling on his face.

"God, Y/N, buy me dinner first."

[jayflrt]

𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝟕𝟖𝟔 26. the athenaeum

JAY HAD GONE THROUGH NUMEROUS INTERVIEWS IN HIS LIFE; THIS WASN'T ANYTHING HE HADN'T EXPERIENCED BEFORE.

The Athenaeum, which was the building designated for the Order members, looked grand on the outside, but it was even more magnificent on the inside. The living space was adorned with decorative sculptures and Corinthian pillars, and a spiraling staircase led to several upper levels. Jay swallowed hard when he realized that he would be living here if he was selected. That would surely make it harder to hide that he was only here for his assignment.

He walked in at 8:06 p.m. on the dot, hoping he had made the right decision, and a little anxious knot unraveled in his chest when Kim Jennie approached him with a pleased smile.

"Right this way to your interview, Jay," she said in a sweet voice, although her smile dropped as she tried to maintain a stoic expression.

In retrospect, the interview itself didn't sound too intimidating. A thirty minute interview with several people asking questions would go by quickly. But a room's worth of eyes were on him, and he felt his throat closing up. Surely, there were scarier things in the world than fifteen pretentious college students sizing him up, but Jay couldn't seem to think of anything but how stuffy the large room seemed to feel.

They were all sitting high above him, circling around the one chair in the middle of the room like a committee of vultures. They were all wearing dark cloaks with a golden wreath adorning the tops of their heads. It looked a little silly, but he tried not to stare too long at the headpieces.

Park Sungjin, Sunghoon's older brother, was seated right in the middle, eyes flitting between Jay and the sheet of paper in front of him. Jay looked around the room for a brief second, making eye contact with Jeonghan, who nearly cracked a smile before returning to looking impassive.

"Welcome to your interview, Jay," Sungjin began with an overwhelming air of authority, motioning for him to sit down. Jay cautiously took a seat, but he immediately felt swamped by everyone's gaze. "We've spent the past semester getting to know you and your accomplishments. All of us are quite familiar with your merit, but this interview is for us to get to know you on a deeper level to see if you have what it takes to be part of our next delegation."

Before Jay could even open his mouth to respond, Sungjin turned to the member to his right, asking, "Baekhyun, would you like to start us off?"

Byun Baekhyun nodded before leaning forward on his forearms. "Jay, if you could be president, during which historical event would it be?"

Jay almost gawked at him. Almost.

He treated the question as if it was any other professional interview question, though. If the Order was taking it seriously, then he had to, as well.

"Probably during the Great Depression," he answered after a few moments of pondering. "I would've done the opposite of whatever Hoover did with his laissez-faire approach, meaning more government intervention, more relief efforts, and less tariffs. Without the Great Depression, Germany probably wouldn't become fascist, so they would have no reason to form a huge army and start the second world war."

"Nice answer," Sungjin praised, which left a surge of relief flooding Jay's chest. "Jisoo?"

The pretty senior smiled coyly, scooting up in her seat to ask, "If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?"

Jay seriously thought this was all some sort of sick joke. What kind of question was that? Had he been taking all of this way too seriously?

"Maybe one of those Moon Trees," he said. "I think it's pretty cool that the seeds were still viable after going to the moon and back."

Kim Taehyung was next to ask a question, clearing his throat loudly to cover up Jeonghan whispering to Xu Minghao about where they could find a Moon Tree seed.

"Jay," Taehyung started, "if you could slap any person—living or dead—who would you slap?"

Jay leaned back in his chair, taken aback by the question. Was there a correct way to go about such a question? Could he really just list any person? He could perhaps say Hitler or Stalin, but that was stupid; anyone would slap those two if they were given the choice.

He could go for a more entertaining route, but Jay's mind was currently blanking and he could only think of one person that would have been completely inappropriate to blurt out. He knew you told him to be honest, but honesty would probably do him more harm than good.

However, the seconds were ticking by, and Jay was suddenly overly-conscious of everyone's blank stares. His heart started to beat faster when he realized that everyone was waiting for him to respond.

"Park Sunghoon."

Jay didn't even realize the words actually came out of his mouth until he noticed that the room was dead silent. As if he wasn't nervous already, his blunder made his heart beat against his rib cage like a drum while his palms grew clammy.

It was over.

There was no recovering from such a royal fuck-up. Jay had to find another way to go about this mission. He would have to tell his client that he failed. Maybe he would finally be let go, but then he would have to leave—

A snicker. Then another. And another.

Soon, the entire room had burst into laughter over Jay's answer, including Park Sungjin. Although most of them still looked as if they were in disbelief, they found it absolutely hysterical.

Kim Doyeon, who was currently wiping tears from the corners of her eyes, fought down giggles as she said, "We need you to elaborate."

"Looks like your brother pissed someone off again," Oh Sehun joked, nudging Sungjin from behind.

Sungjin returned a half-grin before folding his arms across his chest and looking down at Jay. "I'd like to hear why, too."

"Uh..." Jay was floundering for an excuse, buying himself time by rubbing his nose. He surely couldn't mention anything that had gone down between Sunghoon and you, so he thought back to a previous memory with the junior. "He puked on my new shoes last semester and never acknowledged it after that. I had to clean them by hand, and he puked on them again."

More laughter chorused from the fifteen of them, and Jay felt a little relieved that he managed to come up with a believable excuse to throw them off. As dumb as their questions were, he almost got himself into trouble there.

Once Sungjin managed to calm down the rest of the members, he shot Jay an apologetic look. "Sorry about them. This is supposed to be a professional interview." He shot pointed looks around the room, but even he wasn't taking his own words seriously. "None of us have ever laughed this hard over an interview question. How about we move onto Minghao?"

Minghao, who Jay couldn't tell was smiling because of his answer about wanting to punch Sunghoon or because Jeonghan had finally shut up about the Moon Trees, straightened his back and squared his shoulders. "Jay, how would you describe the color yellow to someone who's blind? You can take your time to think about this one before you answer."

Jay frowned as he thought long and hard about Minghao's question. It wasn't that it was anything challenging to answer, but he was never really a big fan of the color yellow in the first place.

Sunshine. Dandelions. Canaries. Sunflowers.

Sunshine—but he wasn't really keen on bright, blinding sunlight. Jay more so enjoyed the yellow hues of a sunset or a sunrise. He supposed people associated the color yellow with happiness, but he couldn't really see it.

And then he thought harder about those bright yellows, wondering what it was about the vibrance that made people feel so much joy. He furrowed his brows, and then it came to him all at once.

It wasn't the sunshine itself. Sure, maybe it was a contributing factor, but he remembered that hike he went on while he was back in Washington for winter break. You were standing on a large tree root with your hands on your hips, squinting up at the brilliant sun before nearly tripping over your feet and then laughing hysterically. Something warm and joyful exploding in his chest back then, making him wish he could freeze time.

Maybe that was yellow.

"When you're sad, you say you feel blue," he responded, "so I'd tell a blind person that yellow is their happiest memory. It's like that feeling you get when you look up at the sun and feel its heat on your face, or seeing someone you care for smile really big."

(He swore he could hear Bae Joohyun cooing at his answer from the left end of the room.)

"I think we'll have to wrap this up soon because the next interview is gonna be soon," Sungjin said. "Jennie, would you like to take this one?"

"I can," she said with a nod. "Jay, can you tell me your interpretation of how the name 'Order of Kryptos' came to be?"

Rather than his mouth going dry this time, Jay was more than ready to answer this question—a real question, unlike the previous icebreakers he had been getting. He had done his research far before he even started going to networking events for the Order.

"If I remember correctly, Kryptos is in reference to the sculpture by Jim Sanborn—the one outside the CIA headquarters. It contains four messages, the first three being solved and the fourth remaining one of the most famous unsolved codes in the world," Jay explained. "The name 'Kryptos' itself is the ancient Greek word for 'hidden,' so I believe your society's goals revolve around seeking intelligence and discovering the unknown."

"And what do you think the number 786 signifies?"

"The passcode to the building?"

"Correct."

"Seven-eight-six..." he mumbled, trying to rack his brain for an answer. "The sculpture contains a total of 1,800 characters and only 768 of them are decoded. That's the only connection I can make in my head that relates to 786. Other than that, I don't really know."

Jennie smiled. "Thank you, Jay."

He swallowed thickly. Did he mess up? No, he couldn't have. Jay had been on thin ice when he said he'd punch Sunghoon, but everything else, for the most part, had gone smoothly. There was no possible way he had any idea of knowing what the passcode was for.

"That concludes your interview, Jay," Sungjin said. "We are still deciding on when we're starting Tap Week, so we'll reach out with more information once we've solidified plans. Thank you for meeting with us today."

"Thank you," Jay echoed through the dry mouth and slack tongue.

He went around giving everyone firm handshakes before walking out of the Athenaeum. Although he didn't feel like his interview went terrible, Jay had a sinking feeling that his answer about Sunghoon was going to come back to bite him.

prev | masterlist | next

SUMMARY ▸ private investigator jay park just wants to complete his mission quietly and move on with his life. you, his new assignment who keeps consuming his thoughts, don't make that very easy for him.

AUTHOR'S NOTE ▸ SORRY WILL ANSWER ASKS WHEN I WAKE UP! so eepy rn

TAG LIST ▸ @zdgx1 @smouches @heesdazed @teawithbucky @leep0ems @peachpie4you @niniissus @kgneptun @jaeyunluvr @hooniesuniverse @zerasari @enhalov @sophiko22 @iselltulips @hoondiors @baekhyunstruly @jays-property @woninluv @heerinnie @fakeuwus @yizhoutv @en-happiness @theothernads @y4wnjunz @dammit-jjk @en-happiness @mari-oclock @enhypens-baby @soonyoungblr @jakeslvt @taetaenic @jebetwo @fairysungx @hsgwrld @shmooooo @ineedsomezzz @mrowwww @enha-stars @isawritesss @seongclb @lockburn-castle @alyssajavenss @enczen @calumsfringe @w3bqrl @luvyev @uhsakusa @luvnicho @wildflowermooon @navsnct

[jpitha]

Between the Black and Grey 66

First / Previous / Next

By now, Fen was getting rather tired of waking up in strange locations with intense pain all through her body.

She didn't even bother sitting up in shocked surprised. She wearily opened her eyes and stared at the paneled ceiling for a few minutes. Her body felt like she had a sunburn all over. It stung and ached and felt hot and hurt. She just hurt.

Fen sighed and sat up on her elbows and looked around. She was in a stateroom - on a ship probably; if she had to guess it's was Gord's ship - laying on a bed. She looked down at herself and - oh. Her entire body was bright red, like she had a burn. That explains the sting at least. Next to the bed was a side table with a bottle of water and a aloe dispenser.

"Hey, is anybody home? Nanites? Vel? Han'iel's Nanites?" She thought. No reply. Best not to worry about it now. Fen finished sitting up and applied the aloe to all of her exposed skin. She felt more slippery but it didn't really stop the pain. After the aloe had dried, she got up and tried walking around the room. It was small and spartan, but clean. Just as she was about to step out and explore more, the door opened and Chloe stepped in.

Fen started and took a step back. Chloe's tall body, long hair and severe look was intimidating, but in the back of her mind, Fen had noticed that when she was Empress it didn't bother her as much. She wondered if the Nanites - in addition to giving her vocal language and body language skills - had given her some kind of boost in confidence as well. "Fen, you're awake." It wasn't a question.

"Uh, yes Chloe... how long has it been?"

"About eight standard hours since Gord brought you onboard."

"About that," Fen looked around the room. "Where am I? I'm not on my yacht."

"That is correct. You're onboard our ship. When it's automated it's called Birches."

Fen sat on the bed. She was still very tired. "That's an unusual name."

Chloe shrugged. "Gord picked it. It was some kind of tree I think. Are you well enough to move around? Gord thinks you should have some food. He's cooking dinner in the canteen."

"Gord can cook?" Fen didn't mean to sound so surprised, but it slipped out. It did make Chloe smirk though.

"I'm told Gord is an excellent cook... so long as you stick to the foods he's skilled at preparing. Remember, he's the oldest one of us, he's had time to practice." Chloe extended her hand to Fen to help her up.

Warily, Fen took her hand. It was so warm! Chloe's persona is one of cold detachment so Fen had kind of thought that her body would be cold as well. With her help, Fen made it down the hall of the small ship to the canteen.

As they approached, a sweet smell emanated from the canteen, with a smoky undertone. It smelled familiar to Fen and when she opened the door, she saw Gord at the stove, fussing over some bacon. He turned and waved. "Fen! Glad you could join us. The bacon is nearly ready and the waffles are keeping warm in the oven. I have coffee too if you'd like."

Fen hadn't realized how hungry she was until she smelled the food cooking. She sat at the table and Gord brought over a large plate of food and a mug of coffee. Next to it was a small squeeze bottle of maple syrup. "The real stuff too! I do have standards after all." Gord said, laughing.

It was delicious. Fen wasn't sure if it was the food, or her recent trauma, or everything all together, but she was sure she hadn't had a meal this good in decades. "Gord, this is amazing, where did you get it? I didn't think AIs ate. Why would you have bacon?"

Gord sat down across from her with a plate of his own food. Chloe sat as well, but only had a cup of coffee. "We don't have to eat, but many of us choose to. We might be our own people and have our own traditions, but we were built by humans first and have quite a few human traits. Many of us have taste receptors, so why not use them? It's less efficient of a source of energy than a mini reactor, but we can still turn the food into energy, kilocalories and kilocalories after all. Besides, the bacon is artificial and stores well, and the waffle mix is powdered. Kept sealed and away from air, it lasts a long time."

Fen was barely listening. She was too occupied eating.

After breakfast, Fen offered to clear the table, but Gord wouldn't hear of it. "You're our guest Fen, please allow me." Chloe got up with him, and they both loaded the dishwasher and cleaned the surfaces while Fen sat and nursed her second coffee. After they had finished cleaning they sat back down. "Fen." Gord said. "The K'laxi nanites fought the Builder Nanites in your body.

"Yes, I know. While I was under the three of us... had a discussion."

"Did you?" Gord raised an eyebrow. "Interesting. Well, let's hear it from your side then. What did you learn?"

Fen told Gord and Chloe about their discussion and how long the K'laxi nanites had been active as well as their reaction to her original Builder nanites. "I took the neck snapping to mean that they had succeeded in defeating them, and since I'm still alive I assume that means you and Chloe were able to save my physical body too." Fen took a sip of coffee as she finished.

Gord looked at Chloe, who nodded. "Tell her, Gord."

Fen's blood ran with ice at that. "Tell me what?"

"Aw jeez." Gord leaned forward and rubbed his hand on his forehead. "I was hoping to wait a bit until you got your strength back before bringing it up."

"Bring what up, Gord?" Fen's face was trying at the same time to look intimidating but also hiding how frightened she is.

Then, Fen was in a room. This one was stark white, with bright overhead lights and machinery crowding one corner. Indicator lights blinked and bits of equipment beeped happily at other bits. Sticking out of the center of the machinery about a meter was a long oblong sphere, like a lozenge. It was... different than the other equipment. Where the machinery seemed thrown together and ad-hoc, this was much more... weighty. Smooth corners, thick walls, it was clearly something meant to last a long time.

It's a hibernation cabinet.

Fen walked over to the cabinet, shakily. When she touched the top, it felt cold, like the insulation of the cabinet was holding back a terrible chill. Set into the top was a small, clear, thick window. She knew what was going to be in there, but she had to look. She had to. She got on her tiptoes and looked inside.

Fenchurch Whitehorse, Empress of Humanity (former) was inside; her eyes shut, her hair shaved, and fully half her skull covered in electrodes and wires. Dried blood was around her lips, nose, and ears. As if to drive the point home, a rime of frost framed her face. She looked so tired.

"I'm sorry Fen." Gord and Chloe appeared behind her. "When you were told that removing the nanites was most likely fatal, you were right. When I tried with the anti-nanite gas back on Home a couple of years ago, I wasn't sure if it would work - or if you'd survive. For what it's worth, I'm glad it didn't work and you and Zhe didn't die then." Gord said, softly.

"I-I-if I'm in there," she pointed. "Then how am I here?"

"Fen, we're experts in minds." Chloe said. "Human brains are different from AI brains, but only slightly different. You're running on... outboard processing."

"Outboard processing?"

"Er, I assume you noticed the wires? We're running you in most of the machinery around the hibernation cabinet. We need your body to do it, but mostly as a bootstrapper. Ninety percent of you is in the machinery."

Fen's legs felt rubbery. She put her hand back to steady herself, and... sat heavily into the couch in her apartment. Gord and Chloe looked around. "This is your old place." Gord said, with a touch of surprise. "You know, it usually takes a while for humans to be able to do that."

"Except when they're on the verge of a panic attack and start jumping around to places of comfort." Chloe said, glaring at Gord. "I told you she wasn't going to like it."

"You also said to tell her." Gord pointed out.

"Just because I said to tell her doesn't mean you had to show her the cabinet. It must be frightening for a human to see themselves like that."

"Probably, though I've known a few in my day that would have moved Heaven and Earth to be running like Fen is now."

"Gord." Fen said quietly.

"There you go again, Gord, bringing up things that happened thousands of years ago. I swear you do it just to win any conversation. 'On a long enough timeline' bullshit." Chloe was fully ignoring Fen now.

"Gord." Fen said, louder.

"Don't even give me that Chloe, you're nearly as old as I am. You were a Starjumper before the wormhole generators same as me, and you even got to see my hometo-"

"GORD!" Fen's voice cracked as she shouted.

"Oh, sorry Fen, what's up?" Gord had the decency to look sheepish.

"What happens now?"

"The hibernation cabinet has slowed - though not stopped - the nanomachine war in your body. We did it to buy time, to try and figure out what to do before you died of heatstroke, or were accidentally consumed in their need for mass and energy." Chloe said, sitting across from Fen, "That worked, but it's only bought time. We still need to figure out what to do about them - or if one of them wins - what to do about the winner."

Gord sighed and sat in the other chair next to Chloe - Ma-ren's chair. "There's also the matter about your implant."

"My implant?" Fen sat up straighter and her eyes went wide. "I don't have an implant."

Chloe and Gord shared a look that went over Fen's head. "You do, Fen. It looks freshly installed."

"Careful not to pull your stitches" Han'iel said when he woke her up when she was strapped to the table. So that's what he meant.

"What kind of implant is it?"

Another cryptic look between Gord and Chloe. Now that she knew where she was, Fen could have sworn that there was a sensation of energy passing between them. Maybe they were having a private conversation.

"Fen" Chloe's face was surprisingly soft. The intimidating stare was gone. She reached out and patted Fen's hand. "That's the other reason you're in hibernation. It's an antimatter bomb."

Fen stood up so quickly the coffee table flipped over. "We have to link somewhere! Anywhere! I need to talk to Ma!"

[seastarblue]

Full Moon Festival: Part Two

under the cut!

Before he could reply, she dropped down onto a shabby roof, and then descended onto the road in front of it. Felix followed, and as two knights moved forward, the ornate decor of the festival above faded away into the grime and disrepair of the Bay.

———

“So…. Now what?”

The pair had been captured. Apparently, charging headfirst into an experienced criminal’s hideout was a pretty stupid idea.

They were tied up in a dim room, the only light coming from a weak rune fixed to the ceiling. The ropes weren’t too tight, but they still prevented the pair from getting out.

Just as Kaiden was about to reply to her bewildered partner, a loud thump reverberated through the room. In stepped the Butcher: tall, stocky, and covered in gore. She looked them up and down—as best she could, considering the lighting issue—and despite her heartbeat deafening her, she nearly giggled at how the Butcher fit their name so well. If she didn’t know any better, she’d have bought some meat from them and be none the wiser to their killing sprees.

It seemed like Felix had the same thoughts, as he did laugh—with a hint of fear—at the Butcher’s appearance. “Damn—that’s why the Guard gave you that nickname!”

The Butcher was silent.

“Not much of a talker, are we?” The half-fairy asked, leaning back in his chair, seemingly oblivious to the fact his hands were tied. Kaiden wondered why he hadn’t  burned the ropes like the paper ball, but she realized something must have been blocking his magic. 

“Don’t think they are, Fel.” she interjected. Her voice was quiet.

“Well perhaps they’re just shy?”

“Probably. But maybe they’re savoring the moment. You know, before they chop us up and sell our parts on the black market?”

“Oh, no. The black market doesn’t fetch good prices,” the Butcher finally answered. “Luckily, I’ve made the acquaintance of many other buyers who would pay ten times the amount that those fleas do.”

Kaiden was now snickering along with Felix, the soul bind transferring his ease and confidence into her, if only a little bit.

That bit was all she needed to start thinking clearer. She began discreetly loosening the ropes binding her hands; if she could get to her knives…

Felix’s eyes flicked to his right, and lit up when he noticed what she was doing. He then asked—the Butcher—“Really? How much do they pay?”

“I’m afraid I can’t disclose that information to you.” he replied. “Even if I did, there’s no use. You’ll be dead mere moments after I finish speaking.” The Butcher began moving to the other end of the room, strangely quick and agile for such a large figure. 

A small table hidden in the corner of the room—lined with knives, machetes, and various other devices splattered with blood—was the killer’s destination. They chuckled, low and intimidating, as they picked up a large cleaver. “See, if you two were of sound mind—which I doubt, considering you came here, but that’s another story—you’d see that I’ve freed all these people! They weren’t well off, you know? They wouldn’t contribute anything to society, those worthless little creatures. Now, at least their bodies can be put to use! And oh, what a use it will be…” the Butcher monologued, grinning ear to ear. “I will free you two as well! Consider it a favor, a good deed done to—“

The wild look in their eyes quickly faded as a knife hit the rune above, snuffing its light and covering the room in darkness. They soon realized the chairs in which their prey were tied to were empty. Rage engulfed the Butcher, and they frantically looked around the room for the knights.

Unfortunately for the Azari partners, Felix’s fairy wings always let off a pale glow, and so the Butcher noticed the pale light now exiting the room. They did not falter. Barreling out the door, they bellowed, “GET BACK HERE!”

Obviously, the knights ignored the killer and kept sprinting down the desolate streets of the Bay.

“They’re gaining on us, Kai!”

“I can see that!”

“So what do we do?! What’s our plan?”

“Keep running!”

“You don’t say? Really, I was gonna stop and do a little dance—”

The Butcher cut the half-fairy off as they lunged in his direction, nearly cleaving his head in two. Felix managed to dodge, just in time, and threw the colorful Mots right into the cutthroat’s eyes. They roared in pain, or perhaps fury, as they blindly swung their cleaver around, hoping to hack their victims to bits.

Kaiden, who had slowed down to try and bury her second knife into their chest, hissed as the cleaver skimmed over her leg, gold blood splattering onto the pavement.

“Kai!”

“I’m fine—keep going!”

“I—“

“I said—“ she gritted her teeth and started to sneak behind the Butcher “—keep going!”

“I’m not leaving—“

“I have a plan, just keep them distracted!”

That satiated Felix’s anxiety, and he obliged, hooting and taunting the Butcher while his partner put her plan into practice.

Said plan was simply waiting for the correct moment, and smashing the hilt of her spare knife into the killer’s temple, causing them to crumple in a heap on the pavement.

The knights took a moment to catch their breath, checking to make sure the Butcher was knocked out. 

“Hey, Kai,” Felix said through gasps, “Your leg’s still bleeding.”

“Mhm. It’ll be fine. Call Captain, yeah? Tell her we—“

“On it.” Felix quickly prepared (with the help of the Combustion rune) and released the Search rune, small and dimly glowing red. The crimson light zipped upwards, straight to Azari Tower, where it would reach their Captain and alert them that the killer had been apprehended. 

“I told ‘em that Butcher’s been knocked out for a bit, and that we’re gonna need someone else to take them up to the Tower. I also told them everything was well, and you only sustained a small injury. All good?”

Kaiden smiled. “All good.” A pause, then, “Wait, they’re not going to stay down long, you should—“

“Oh yeah.” Felix bent down, and with a short muttered spell, pushed the Butcher deeper into unconsciousness. “That’ll keep them for… maybe a half hour?”

“That’s plenty of time.”

“You should probably get that patched up before we—“

“Before we get going, yeah. Got any—?”

“Mhm!” He tossed Kaiden a little bundle of bandages.

“…this Oath thing is weird.”

“Agreed, but it’s a little funny, don’t you think?”

“Why don’t you tell me?”

Both Felix and Kaiden chuckled. Now that her leg was bandaged, she got up and tried walking. The bandage stayed steady. Good.

“Let’s get going?” she asked.

“Yeah.”

———

And so, the two knights made their way back up to the main festival roads. The Search rune had returned to them with a short congratulatory message and permission to take the rest of the night off, as a reward—much to Felix’s delight. 

Before they started with the festivities, the pair sat down on top of Darla’s little inn, waiting for Kaiden’s leg to heal a bit. It twinged a bit while she climbed, but Kaiden brushed it off. The views were better here, anyways.

“This soup is so gooddddd~” Felix mumbled, mouth full of the thick vegetable soup that the innkeeper had prepared for them.

Kaiden simply nodded, guzzling at her own bowl. “You finished yet?”

“Mhmf—almofst”

“��don’t talk with your mouth open, stupid.”

Felix swallowed the rest of his stew. “I’ll do what I want, thanks.” He gave Kaiden’s almost empty bowl a glance. “You gonna finish that?”

She didn’t answer, deciding to slurp the rest of the soup in one go. She then held the now finished bowl out to Felix.

He took it—with a fair amount of sass, and a muttered “Am I some servant to you?”—then dropped onto Darla’s terrace to give the bowls back and pay.

Felix flitted back to the knight’s resting place, and stayed hovering in place. “You feeling better?” he asked, practically humming with excitement.

Kaiden answered with a nod and a smile. She dropped from the rooftop now, followed by Felix. The pair made their way to the still-crowded street, and donned their masks once more.

“Happy Full Moon, Fel.”

“Happy Full Moon, Kai—GACK!”

Kaiden sprinted off, cackling at the sight of her parter-in-justice’s formerly monochrome outfit being splattered with a motley of color.

“Oh you’re gonna pay for that!” Also howling with laughter, Felix gave chase while simultaneously wiping the Mots off his clothes.

———

the end!

tagging (again): @xenascribbles @notyourlocalworm @thebookishkiwi @bunnymermaidwrites @bardic-tales

[deathmetalunicorn1]

Hi! Can i request a Gyomei!Reader fighting for humanity and the gods and humans reactions? I just know some of the people are going to doubt them.

i bet Adam is gonna go Dad mode. Also, drink water, eat food, and get a good rest!

-Many were intimidated when you entered the meeting room, you were a towering, hulking figure, similar to not only Raiden, but Thor and Hercules as well. Many of the gods were a little nervous, seeing that the humans had another powerhouse.

-You were silent, holding your hands together, your beads held between them in a silent prayer.

-However, when most realized that you were blind, some of the gods were sneering, thinking you were going to be an easy match, however Brunnhilde wouldn’t have selected you if you were weak, and those like Lu Bu, Raiden, Thor, and Kojiro, could tell that you weren’t weak by any means and you shouldn’t be underestimated.

-You, however, didn’t help your case when Goll offered to show you to your waiting room and she panicked when you started to cry, tears falling down your cheeks in a steady stream.

-You were just so overwhelmed by her kindness that you couldn’t stop your tears.

-The harsh and cruel words from some of the gods, calling you weak, didn’t bother you, you ignored them, but you were surprised when Adam was quick to defend you, cracking his knuckles, “You wanna repeat that?”

-You thanked Adam who grabbed your wrist to pull you down, patting the top of your head gently, which made the tears worse.

-The human champions were kinder to you, as they didn’t know you, they couldn’t judge, and those who could sense your strength, your kindness, as you were nearly blinding to Jack when he looked at you.

-When it was your turn to fight you noticed that not as many gods were teasing you, as they had quickly learned that humans were not to be underestimated.

-Those who didn’t learn thought you were going to be easy, since you were blind as you gave a polite bow to your opponent before pulling out your weapon, a spiked flail on one end and the other had an axe, connected by a thick chain.

-Your handicap didn’t hinder you in the slightest as you charged, easily finding and attacking your opponent, your sharp hearing being able to pick up the footsteps and the differences in the air around you.

-Jaws were dropped all around as you stood at the end of the match as the victor, but it was your actions afterwards that really stunned everyone.

-You pulled your prayer beads out and bowed to the god as he faded away, crying once again as you hated violence, you hated that you had to end a life of another, and the only way to honor them, was to offer a prayer.

-Your opponent was stunned but managed to give a small smile, “What a weird human you are!” but his words were not cruel, he sounded almost like he too was crying.

-You spent the remainder of the tournament in your room, listening to the matches, offering quiet prayers to those in combat and those who were lost to the fights.

-Kojiro was the one to seek you out, bringing some meat dumplings to share, he was a warm person, one that made you feel at ease, as you accepted one of the meat dumplings before continuing to watch the fights, quietly awaiting your fates, good or bad, together.

[bearimba]

Pokemon Mini Headcanons

Realized it's been a solid minute since I've shared anything. so! here's some pokemon headcanon tidbits that have kinda been floating around in my head but I don't have anywhere to put them yet:

Barry is extremely tall. Like, at least six feet. Since he's very visibly the goofy type, it's not super intimidating until suddenly he's barreling down the street and nearly knocking people over in his wake. He's also incredibly clumsy, so it's kind of a bull(tauros?)-in-a-china-shop situation.

Leaf is part of the team that revolutionized and maintains the PSS (not part of the original team though, she's too young for that), which is of course led by Bill. Where Bill came up with the, made the team, and did a bunch of hardware stuff, Leaf is in charge of software stuff and does coding for the different programs. As for the rest of the team. well. I don't know who they are bc I haven't gotten that far.

Also, Red's sign name for Leaf is Green, as in, literally the sign for the color (the same goes for Blue). Blue's often calls her Greenie as a result.

As Hoenn's Champion, Brendan is considered a very down-to-earth and blunt person, which is great and all until you remember he's from the ✨️bearimba pokeverse✨️'s equivalent of Florida and is basically Reigning Florida Man Supreme. He's definitely done some crazy stuff but it kinda gets shoved on the back burner (that definitely isn't partially because the media pushes his more serious side in order to fight the "all Hoennians are unhinged" allegations).

Lucas is legally deaf (deaf but not Deaf, he lost his hearing as a kid) and uses hearing aids. He can kinda sorta understand people without them, but it's less like he understands the words and more like he understands the sounds that are supposed to be word, so it's way more convenient to keep them in. Whenever he doesn't want to deal with Dawn's and Barry's shenanigans, he just turns them off, closes his eyes, and relishes in the relative peace and quiet.

He's also the one who gets transported back to Hisui during the final battle with Dialga/Palkia/Giratina. Long story short (bearimba DPPt/PLA rewrite when?), his hearing aids get destroyed in the process of getting transported and he's forced to go through the events of PLA at a huge disadvantage, mostly relying on his quick wit and vast knowledge of pokemon to survive the game.

Lorelei, Karen, and Clair are all besties, and they meet up regularly to have brunch and share the latest gossip (aka pooling together their resources to gather info on their enemies, discuss the most recent affairs in Kanto/Johto, and more, all under the guise of "girls' time").

Silver and Janine first meet when Silver gets accidentally caught up in a prank meant for the E4, for which Janine very vehemently apologizes (under threat from Koga) and Silver reluctantly forgives her (under threat from Lance). They get along surprisingly well after that, especially after they both get involved in the Kanto League as gym leaders, and they eventually become pretty good friends.

Team Rocket was kinda just a shady family business until Giovanni took over in his twenties. In the 30ish years he presided over the it, he managed to develop it into a massive, multi-level and multi-department organization with their fingers in just about every aspects of the Kanto economy before their collapse. (all things considered, it's kinda funny/pathetic how things ended---he had all this power, then just threw all that and his kid out the window because some teenager happened to beat him in a pokemon battle)

Indigo Plateau (the actual plateau itself, not the League building) is pretty unique in that it's literally a plateau in the middle of a bunch of mountains. which. isn't really how geography works. Story goes, it was originally a mountain that served as the battleground for a pair of ridiculously overpowered trainers, and it got leveled in the middle of all the fighting. In honor of the plateau's legend, there was a regularly held tournament for pokemon trainers to decide who was the best of the best in the region. Eventually, some guy decided to make it an "official" event, and that's how the Pokemon League got its start before it spread and became an international organization!

[alicedash2]

Hi alicedash thank you for tryning your best to do my request I really love it.But i would like to request somthing more but with a bit more detil I hope you don't mind with the same y/n know sounds cringe but just hear me out lets say that the red hair pirates just  recruited a cute female crew member thats pretty short(like 169cm) and weak. She  goes shopping alone in town ,the town the red hair pirates staying at .But than she gets attack by some thiefs that try takeing her money but when she refuse to give them they beat her and leave her with huge red bruises on the arms/legs and on the forehead that start to bleed pretty bad ...she gets still in pain and robbed....walks to the local clinic.Stay in a room to heal. Meanwhile back at ship where the guys are starting to worry about their little pumkpin desides to go searching for her .They go around asking everyone at different food stalls  if they seen her keep mind that shanks and his crew are wereing their causal outfit and weapons on  and super tall guys so people get scread. They finally get a to a man that  saw her.he gives the directions to the clinic. Shanks and his crew get to the reception and ask for their little pumpkin is bit the receptionist tells that she can't tell where their pumpkin is at because if she has not clarifies that visitors are allowed than she can't tell them.Also because she thinks they look  suspicious because there pirates and also because they have weapons

How do you think the guys will react to this fact?

Have a lovely day!

Here we go!

Shanks x Reader

(Not reviewed, may contain several errors)

What a horrible day it was! YN had just joined the Redheads, she was a bit small and fragile, but that didn't stop her from joining the crew.

However, trouble struck when she decided to wander alone in the city on the recently arrived island. Everything seemed perfect until YN made the mistake of going alone. While shopping, a group of thieves spotted her and decided to attack. YN fought back, but she was beaten by the thieves who only fled when civilians intervened. Fortunately, YN didn't lose all her belongings, but she did suffer some broken bones. She headed to the nearest hospital, got prompt treatment, and hours later, Shanks realized her prolonged absence.

The search began as Shanks and his crew questioned frightened civilians. Despite Shanks being famous and intimidating, they managed to gather details from a man who witnessed the assault. However, when Shanks tried to visit YN in the hospital, he faced resistance from the receptionist, suspecting him as the infamous red-haired pirate.

- Sorry, sir, at the moment we do not accept visitors, it is past time, I ask you to leave - said the receptionist

- please let me see her! - Shanks implied

-Get out, by the way, you look suspicious! Aren't you the red-haired pirate?! You have weapons!- the receptionist said

-I-I just need to see her and I'll go away!- Shanks said

w-we can't hand over a civilian to a pirate!- The receptionist said, scared

Frustrated and anxious, Shanks decided to invade the hospital. Despite causing chaos, he finally found YN, lying in bed.

- "Are you okay?!"

Shanks asked as he approached her. She looked at him and nodded, showing her casted arm. Shanks picked her up, threw her over his shoulder, and jumped through the window.

- "We'll take care of you, you nearly gave me a heart attack!" Shanks said, laughing.

- "Looks like we'll have to train you. Damn, I shouldn't have let you wander alone!"

Shanks added, placing YN on the ground. Shortly after, the crew found Shanks and YN. Some members scolded YN, not too harshly, just to caution her. YN also learned that the same thieves who attacked her were brutally dealt with by Shanks and his crew, who returned some of her belongings.

[totesnothere04]

Unexpected Turn of Events Pt. 2

Tonowari x Fem!Reader

I do not own ANY of the fanart or screenshots used with my fics.

Pt.1 here. Pt.3 here.

You ended up sitting in his family's marui so he could prepare food for everyone instead of just you. You get up to try and help him, but he shooes you back to where you were sat.

"Is there a reason behind you being nice enough to make me food?" You asked the intimidating man infront of you.

"Is this not a custom that humans have when they court a potential mate?" Tonowari asks and you feel the heat rush to your cheeks.

"M-mate? But I'm human." You say and he looks you up and down.

"Were human. You're Na'vi now, and a very beautiful one at that." Tonowari says.

"In any case, I haven't passed an iknimaya so I am not an adult in the people's eyes." You said and he smirked.

"I can train you." He said as he set down a leaf with a serving of food on it. At this point, his children ran into the marui and stopped in their tracks.

"Hey (Y/n)." Tsireya said as she grabbed herself a serving of food and sat down next to you. Ao'nung grabbed his food and sat across from you, and Tonowari sat down on your other side.

"So you're not human anymore." Ao'nung said.

"Really? I couldn't tell." You said and Tsireya laughed lightly while Tonowari held in his laugh.

"Ha ha. Are you planning on training now?" Ao'nung asked and Tonowari nearly jumped at the chance to answer his son.

"I will be teaching her. To hunt, to breathe, to ride an ilu, and eventually a tsurak." Tonowari answered his son.

"I better keep my med kit handy. I can't say I'll be a natural. I've been in the books since I was a kid." You said and they looked at you oddly. "Oh books? They're uh paper stacks that have information on the front and back of every page." They still didn't have the idea fully grasped but didn't say anything about it.

"We will start tomorrow to test your breath endurance." Tonowari said and you nodded.

"I mean I was on the swim team in high school and college. It's how I paid for my schooling." You said. "Uh competitive swimming is a sport on Earth."

"The only thing that sounds fun about your planet." Ao'nung joked and you laughed as well.

"It was sometimes, but there were some people that were too into it. They'd cut any and all hair off of the body so they could slice through the water faster." You told him and he looked even more confused. "Anyone here would've been able to outswim all of those people. I mean you're naturally evolved to be in the water. I mean this is a fin... You can't tell me otherwise." You say as you run your fingers over the fins on the side of your left arm. Tonowari snatches your hand and looks at it.

"I think... I think the Great Mother cleansed your body of all demon blood. Only three fingers and a thumb." Tonowari pointed out and you were surprised. You hadn't noticed that it was different from Jake's.

"I assumed that I would have four fingers like Jake." You said quietly then looked outside to notice it was approaching eclipse. "I should probably go home and rest it's close to eclipse." You say as you stand. "Can I help clean up?"

"No, you were a guest. Plus it's my turn to clean up after dinner." Ao'nung says.

"I will walk you home." Tonowari volunteers and the two of you set off in the direction of your home. "We will need to get you clothes that fit you." He says breaking the silence you look down at your body and realize how your clothes sit on you.

"I didn't even realize how much smaller my clothes are on me now. I'll start weaving a new outfit." You say and he nods.

"Until it is ready I know the weaving circle will most likely have extra pieces they've made. So long as we make an exchange with some extra material they'll be willing to part with them." Tonowari says and you stop outside of your marui.

"Thank you for dinner, and allowing me to care for Kiri." You say.

"That's the issue. Tsireya was not fully trained to be Tsahík before her mother passed away. You said Ronal implanted her wisdom into your mind. She did that so you could complete our daughter's training." Tonowari said. "I bid you goodnight."

"Goodnight Tonowari. I look forward to you teaching me." You say as you disappear into your pod and close the flaps loosely. You never fasten them in fear of being needed to tend to someone during the night. You lay down on your mat and fall asleep quickly.

The next day you were awake bright and early, ready for a day of training with Tonowari. You prepared yourself a quick breakfast, ate, then left your marui. You found a good place out in the open so it would be easy for Tonowari to see you when he was ready to start. You decided to start working on your breathing and slowing your heart rate. You had sat in the same spot only for about half an hour when footsteps approached you.

"I see you're ready to go." Tonowari said as he reached you.

"Yes. I didn't want to keep you waiting." You said as you opened your eyes and looked up at him.

"We will start with diving, move into riding an ilu, and finish with learning to hunt." Tonowari says and starts making his way over to the docks. You get up and follow behind him as you fiddle with the top the aunties gave you this morning. "Let me see how well you can dive." You take position and dive into the water head first and continue down. You swim a little further ahead and you're soon joined by Tonowari.

"You dive very good." Tonowari signs and you thank Eywa that Kiri has been teaching you their Na'vi sign language.

"Thank you." You sign back and he looks at you shocked.

"I'm surprised you know our sign language." Tonowari replies.

"Kiri has been teaching me." You sign to him and he nods once. He starts leading you through the reef showing you the designated hunting areas, and the best places to get clams. At the end of the tour of the reef, he leads you to the shallows to teach you to ride an ilu. He clicks his tongue to summon the creatures and he eventually has two that come up to him.

"In order to successfully hunt you must learn to ride an ilu. When the time comes I will teach you to ride a tsurak... Unless you want to start on a tsurak." Tonkwari teases and you feel the color drain from your face.

"No, no. I'm not Jake. I'm not going to get ahead of myself." You say and chuckle nervously. He smiles warmly at you and then guides one of your hands to the ilu. When your hand makes contact it chitters happily then grab your queue. You calm yourself from your nerves then make tsaheylu and you feel your heartbeat move in sync with her heartbeat. You mount her and Tonowari makes his way around you positioning you correctly.

"When riding an ilu position is important. They move through the water fast, and you need to have a good grip on the handle." Tonowari says and you nod. "You can tell them what to do through your connection." You get a good grip on the handle and will the ilu to move forward slowly. It does so and then starts picking up speed as you get accustomed to riding it. You make your way back to Tonowari and dismount your ilu.

"You learn fast. Now you learn to hunt. Come." Tonowari says then leads you to one of the designated hunting areas.

"Any advice?" You ask him.

"Anticipate their movements and aim for their forward movements. I will demonstrate." Tonowari says then leads you down and takes aim at a fish. He pulls the trigger on his weapon and it delivers a killing blow to the fish. He turns to you with a cocky smirk and you mimic a small clapping motion. He quirks a brow and motions for you to try, and your teasing facade falls a bit. You'd never hunted a single time in your life, so you knew you'd mess it up somehow. You readied your weapon and steeled your nerves then snuck up on some fish. You aimed at a fish and waited for the right moment then pressed the trigger. Your jaw dropped in surprise when it hit its target and you turned back to Tonowari still wearing your surprised expression. He smirks at you again and you gather your hunt while he gathers his and you both surface.

"I thought I was going to miss... I've never hunted before. Or fished." You said and he led you over to your ilu and showed for you to place your fish in the ilu's bag.

"Maybe you were meant for life with the Metkayina." Tonowari suggests and you look back over the horizon.

"That had to be beginners luck. I say I try again and see if I can do it again." You tell him and he looks impressed.

"If that's what you wish then we shall continue hunting." Tonowari says and reloads his weapon and you do the same. Continue hunting the two of you did. You just continued to get better and Tonowari was very impressed by your abilities. When you both decided that was enough for the day you realized you had way too many fish for just you.

"Hey Tonowari... I got carried away and definitely have way more fish than what I need." You said sheepishly and he couldn't help but agree.

"The weavers and elderly will most likely appreciate the fish." Tonowari says. "We should head back." The two of you mount your ilu's and race back to the village. When you get back it's slightly past midday and you follow Tonowari's lead. He teaches you to prepare the fish to be cooked and eaten and then takes you to the weavers.

"Olo'eyktan!" One of the women says happily as the two of you walk into the area.

"My student caught too many fish today and was wondering if anyone wanted to make a trade." Tonowari says and motions for you to show your extra catch. You do so and are met by silence for a moment, but two women jump up at the same time.

"This is perfect timing! My mate has fallen ill and I'm providing for our family. I'm Ra'ina." Ra'ina says as she starts showing you what she has to offer for trade.

"Your mate is ill? Why haven't you come to me? I can help." You say as you look at her in question.

"Oh, he didn't want to bother you with all the responsibilities you have now." She says sheepishly.

"Nonsense. My job is to heal people. That is why I am here. I will retrieve my medicines and go with you to your marui to help your mate." You said and she nodded.

"Thank you (Y/n)." Ra'ina said with a smile.

"I'm Sya." The other woman says and you can tell by looking at her, that she is still very young. "I don't know if you were there last month, but my father passed away. My mother is still mourning so I've been trying to provide for her and my younger siblings." She says and you frown. You must have come in right after his funeral because you don't remember attending his service.

"She was not here at that time Sya. I'm sorry for your loss." Tonowari is quick to jump to your aid. "I'm sure if you ask assistance from my hunters we would be glad to help where we can." He offers the young woman and she smiles in a thankful manner.

"Thank you Olo'eyktan." Sya says and you look at what both women are offering in exchange. Ra'ina was offering a top and Sya was offering a loincloth. You split your hunt between the two and they're both thankful for the fish. You smile at your new clothing as you leave the weavers with Tonowari.

"Alright I need to retrieve my items so I may work on healing Ra'inas mate." You tell Tonowari and he nods.

"Then it is good we finished lessons for today." Tonowari says as the two of you stop infront of your marui.

"This is my stop. Thank you for teaching me Tonowari." You say and he dips his head.

"You're welcome. It is my pleasure to teach the woman I plan to court." Tonowari says and you feel yourself blush. He lifts your hand to his lips and kisses the back of your hand. "I will see you tomorrow (Y/n)."

"Have a good evening Tonowari." You tell him and he turns and walks away. You can't help but allow your eyes to roam over his retreating form. Taller than you by atleast a foot, broad shoulders, tattoos, good with children... You felt yourself mentally swoon at the God of a man named Tonowari. You turn and make your way into your marui and gather your supplies and then make your way back to the weavers. The entire evening your mind couldn't expel the thought of what Tonowari's plans are. He wants to court you, and you aren't planning on objecting or rejecting.

The next day you sat in your marui with Neytiri, Tsireya, Kiri, and Ra'ina. You were all kind of just joking, gossiping, and having a pleasant conversation as you all worked on individual projects. Neytiri was working on a gift for Jake, Tsireya was making a bracelet for Lo'ak, Kiri was mending some of her siblings' things, and you and Ra'ina were working on a new mat for her and her husband. A knock sounded on your door and you looked up to find Jake smirking at Tonowari.

"I told you they were all in here." Jake says with his voice full of humor. Tonowari rolled his eyes in amusement.

"Are you looking for something?" You asked them.

"Well..." Jake starts bashfully and you know someone is hurt. You send an apologetic look to the ladies.

"I shall return as soon as I can. I must attend to Jake's mess as per usual." You joke with them and they all chuckle, including Neytiri.

"Neytiri! My beautiful mate... You wound me by not standing up for my honor." Jake says dramatically and you smack the side of his head.

"Take me to the wounded." You demand.

"Do you see this Olo'eyktan? She abuses me." Jake says with a pout and Tonowari looks away from the two of you.

"See what? I didn't see anything." He says and Jake sighs in defeat and then starts to lead the way.

"What happened? Who's hurt?" You ask Jake.

"Don't tell Neytiri." Jake says and you look at him quizzically. "Tonowari and I took the boys out to hunt so they could hopefully bond, but Lo'ak accidentally grazed Neteyam with a bolt from his crossbow." Jake explained and you sighed while massaging your brow.

"You realize she will find out sooner or later. I cannot heal an injury into non-existence before she returns home." You tell him and he nods.

"I know." Jake says.

"Besides they are children they will learn at their own pace. Whether it be, get out of the way of a lined-up shot, or don't shoot your sibling... Either way, it is a lesson learned." You tell him. When you walk into their marui Neteyam looks annoyed as does Ao'nung, and Lo'ak is panicking. Neteyam looks up to see you and holds out his arm and you kneel next to him.

"So what happened exactly?" You asked him.

"Lo'ak was talking to Ao'nung about something and wasn't paying attention to his hands. He pulled the trigger of the crossbow and it grazed my arm." Neteyam explained and you looked to Lo'ak.

"Kid... You gotta learn proper weapon etiquette. Your finger rests idle near the trigger when it's not in use." You tell him and he nods.

"I know. I just got really into the conversation." Lo'ak said and you sighed.

"I'm just glad that it isn't something severe." You said as you started to apply the few stitches needed for Neteyams wound. Once you finished and wrapped it in seaweed bandages you pulled Lo'ak and Neteyam into a hug. "I am just happy that both of you are alright. My beautiful nephews." You say with a joking tone and Lo'ak groans while Neteyam smiles at the praise. You turned to look at Ao'nung who was laughing at the interaction. "Don't make me pull you into this group hug kid."

"My dad wouldn't allow it." Ao'nung says when he realizes you started to turn toward him. You look to Tonowari who smirks at you.

"It would allow you to bond with ma (Y/n), Ao'nung." Tonowari told his oldest who did a double take at what his father just said.

"Did you just call her 'ma (Y/n)'?" Ao'nung asked his father.

"Yes. What else do you call the person you plan to court?" Tonowari says and Ao'nung looks at you shocked.

"You could call her yawne or yawntu." Jake suggested, and your cheeks start to burn with embarrassment and your ears fold back.

"I do not think you will have any problems with courting her father. Look at her reaction." Ao'nung started to join in on poking fun at you. You finished cleaning your hands and hid your face in your hands.

"I am retreating to my marui." You stated and stood up to leave. "Neteyam be careful with that arm. You could pop the stitches if you do any strenuous activity." You tell him and he nods.

"I am very aware Auntie. It's not my first time getting stitched up." Neteyam says and you nod then leave.

"Have fun doing whatever men do in their freetime." You call over your shoulder. You hear them laugh as you leave and a small smile makes its way onto your face.

[luvrsux]

umm umm hthis is my first time requesting something (the “ing” in requesting autocorrected to “nnghhh” help)

um im kind of like nervous idk but basicaly i had this idea UM so like i umm the reader is like she goes to like guitar and shes in like guitar class w/ law and basically your supposed to do a group project where u like learn a song with a group of 2 or more people but the reader and law are both socially awkward so theyre forced to pair together 😭😭 n then they become friends n sh idk

pelase and thank you!!

(you literally changed my life with your amazing fics)

thanks for the request! \(◦´-`◦)/♡

“This is Awkward”

word count: 3.8k

a/n: new layout omgggg?? and i CHANGED YOUR LIFE?? HELLO?? ilysm enjoy

summary: you meet law at a music class and neither of you know how to socialize, which is no brainer. after being forcefully bumped together to group you realize that the both of you seem to be very alike.

contents: fluff

‘If being socially awkward was a job, I’d be filthy rich…’

You thought while sweating bullets from your forehead just by sitting next to the man you’ve caught yourself staring at for weeks. Your body tensed up as if frozen solid and you couldn’t even bear to glance at the boy next to you. Your music teacher discussed the rules and guidelines of the new project you were groped into. How did your innocently enrolling into a music class for fun turn into you panicking about starting a conversation?

You worked wonders on the guitar ever since you were in single digits. Drums, trumpets, or violins never piqued your interest, but the famous chordophone instrument made sparkles grow in your eyes. Now, you enrolled in an afterschool guitar class for extra credit and to have fun. You were at the top of your class only to be in second place by none other than the culprit of your now skyrocketing nerves; Trafalgar Law.

Law enrolled in the class shortly after you did. He looked stone-cold and extremely intimidating, according to the rest of the students. They all feared him once they saw the printed ink on his fingers, hands, arms, and chest. His piercings on his ears and the one on his lip didn’t make it any better either, but the raven-haired boy seemed to not give a damn. He slouched in his seat without a care in the world until it was time to show off his talents. Everyone adored his musical ability as soon as he enchanted them with his talents like some sort of siren. You couldn’t lie, you were jealous, but his excruciatingly amazing good looks were making it really hard to hold a grudge.

Now, you were paired up with the man himself, and your teacher not only forced you to perform a song together but also sat next to each other for an open discussion before class ended. You could faintly smell his pine and cinnamon scent, the smell sending shockwaves through your body. You both heard the buzzing of conversation amongst your paired peers and realized you two were the only people who weren’t talking.

You heard Law clear his throat. It was apparent he was just as, if not more, awkward than you were. He folded his lips and glanced in the opposite direction while you gave him one quick glance. This was all too painful.

“So…” Law said lowly. The grumbling of his voice nearly startled you considering this man had very few words. You quickly turn to him only to turn away just as fast.

“So…” You say similarly. An amazing conversation you two shared, truly. Law felt like his body was about to explode and pulled on his crew neck sweater to let air flow through his chest.

“What… kind of song do you wanna do?” You ask awkwardly, your voice sounding similar to a robot. You saw Law click his tongue and left his mouth agape to think.

“Not sure…” He replied. ‘Was that it?’ You thought. You can clearly tell this man had very few friends growing up. He bounced his leg up and down as some sort of stim for his nerves.

“Okay this is like… really awkward…” You blurt out, your nerves only making your mouth more blunt. Your cheeks began to flush of pigment and you exhaled in slight laughter. Law nodded.

“Oh, absolutely” He agreed. His pensive demeanor seemed to relax once you began to recognize the thick tension between you two.

“Okay well erm… I’m (F/N)” You shakily held out a hand to the awkward boy only for him to eye it for a few moments. You flinched when you felt him finally grasp it.

“Law” He managed to crack a small smile when the awkwardness began to die down. You two shook hands before it was separated.

“We can do some sort of… duet? Do you also do vocals?” Your voice was low and timid, still not quite fully adjusted to speaking to someone you weren’t fond of. Law scratched the back of his neck nervously and avoided eye contact.

“I do… Sometimes…” He says as if he was ashamed or embarrassed by it. You didn’t expect such a dark and cold guy to be a singer.

“Cool, Me too…” You tried not to stammer or fumble on your words but he was making it really difficult. “Um… The teacher said we don’t have to make our own song” You shrugged.

“What are you insinuating?” Law asked, finally landing his cold eyes on you to hear you out. You lightly blush, seeing his entire face and how defined it is in front of you.

“I’m saying… We can just do a cover of a song… To save us the trouble and the uh” You fold your lips and gesture your hands. “Painful awkwardness…”

“Yeah, smart…” Law shrugged. He opened his mouth to say something, but quickly retracted. You could’ve sworn you saw a light tint of pink on his tan cheeks.

“My place or erm… Yours?” He asks, seeming as if he just asked you to do something horrible. You raised an eyebrow and felt your body temperature rise all of a sudden. ‘What? Why is he inviting me over all of a sudden?’

Law seemed to sense your concern and massive confusion with a blink of an eye and rolled his own.

“The teacher said we should meet up someplace outside here to work on it more” Law explained. Those directions were completely foreign to you. She must’ve said it while you were panicking internally just by sitting next to Law.

“Oh, right! Yeah, right…” You laugh nervously and try to create a facade that you knew the whole time, only making it more painfully awkward than before.

“We can… Do mine” You say, your fingers interlocking with each other out of nerves. Law nodded slowly at your statement.

“Cool” Law said lowly. He pulled out a sleek, noir device out of his pocket to unlock it. His screen was presented right in front of you with an empty contact. You stared at it, completely puzzled.

“Oh, right… My number” You say, grabbing his phone to type in your personal digits so you two can keep in touch. Your thumbs were practically vibrating while you moved them to type.

“Erm, here…” You handed his device back to a distracted Law, who seemed to be gazing out the window next to him before quickly turning his head to you.

“Oh, uh thanks,” He says, quickly smiling before tucking his phone away into his pocket. It was only polite for you to reciprocate the same thing—but you didn’t.

The teacher said it was time for everyone to depart and you couldn’t thank her enough for putting an end to the dreadful interaction. Law was quick to grab his bag and hook it onto his shoulder. You were right behind him before he stopped and rubbed his chin to finally face you.

“I’ll.. Text you when I get home… Kay?” He says. His body standing tall rather than sitting down like before was intimidating. He was practically a skyscraper compared to you. You gulped and nodded.

“Got it” You say, your voice slightly softened and you give him a false smile before quickly strutting past him. One simple guy made your body hotter than the surface of the sun, which is exactly how you’d describe his looks.

Despite his painfully terrible social skills, his looks were entirely different. His jawline was chiseled and his fingers were toned. His piercings perfectly fit his character as well as his tattoos. Not to mention the facial hair that did wonders to your brain. You hated how he was more talented than you but also how attractive he was. Surely he knew he could charm any girl he stumbled across but with social skills like that, it was only a fantasy for Law.

The cold breeze from the outdoors felt like paradise against your skin. Finally being able to get fresh air when you were drowning in Earthquaking nerves. But the nerves you once experienced back in class were nothing compared to the ones you’ll experience when Law comes over.

-

When he did, you stared up at him with doe eyes at the doorway. He wore different attire, a more loose and short-sleeved shirt. The only similarity was that he’d never retire the iconic dark color black. He scratched his head while he stood tall before you.

“Uh, hey” Law waved. You giggle out of nervousness before you side stepped aside to let the socially impaired man inside.

He looked inside your apartment like a lost puppy and kept his hands tucked into his jean pockets. He stood uncomfortably by your kitchen island while you locked your front door.

“Um…” You hum before turning to him. He seemed to be intrigued by the decor of your place or was finding any small excuse to avoid eye contact. “Thirsty? Hungry? I uh… Have snacks” You offer, approaching the kitchen only to brush past him. Law caught a whiff of your sweet perfume and it caused his cheeks to flare.

“Oh, how about some sandwiches?” You say with a smile, observing the ingredients you had to assemble the delicious treat. You turned your back to a cringing Law, as if you said the most vile words to ever exist on Earth.

“I don’t do sandwiches…” He grumbled. He felt more comfortable leaning against the table. You raised an eyebrow followed by turning your whole body towards him.

“What? Why?” You ask, quickly folding your arms. Now, you were suddenly craving a sandwich only for it to be stomped on by your awkward house guest.

“I don’t like bread?” Law says with a sassy tone. His tone made you wanna kick him square in his cold face but, of course, you retracted.

“So you’re picky? Gotcha’” You tease, grabbing two clear glasses and filling them up with fresh, purified water.

“It’s just bread. ‘Didn’t know you were an enthusiast for sandwiches” Law rolled his eyes and wrapped his hands around the glass to take a sip. You eyed his tattooed fingers, finally spelling out what they had said; “Death”. ‘Odd choice…’

“Sorry I wanted to make my house guest feel welcome” You grumble before taking a sip. You didn’t receive a word from Law, only a cold glance and a relieved exhale after drinking the beverage.

You walked over to your propped-up guitar that was splashed with stickers of bright colors. You plugged in the amp as well as the instrument itself.

“Oh, my bad…” Law said lowly. Besides bringing himself, he brought his own guitar. He sat by you on the couch, pulling out his instrument.

His sleek, black guitar contrasted dramatically with yours. You two sat in the living room with reasonable space but it still made you nervous. Law stood close by you, leaning over to plug in his guitar. You could practically feel his breath on your neck while he effortlessly plugged it in. You both shared quick eye contact before you quickly turned away. Law sat down in his seat to strum his guitar. It sounded perfectly tuned meanwhile you struggled to tune yours.

“Um… Need help?” Law watched you struggle for a few moments and you felt as if his eyes had daggers of judgment. You glared at him.

“Sure… I guess” You grumble in defeat. With those words, Law stood up to stand right beside you.

His inked hand wrapped on the headstock of the instrument and his fingers pinched the tuning pegs. He leaned over next to you, not quite knowing how close you two were. Law only got closer to strum the guitar. The sound didn’t seem to satisfy him, as he was still close to you to tune the guitar. You heard him grumble in his chest after hearing the wrong tuning.

“One sec” He murmured. He gave the guitar one last strum and it was music to both of your ears. It satisfied the both of you and you saw the cold man carve a smile. Meanwhile, you felt like your heart was about to pump out of your chest. Law looked at you, hoping to see a satisfied smile in hopes that he did a nice job but that was completely absent. As soon as he saw your flushed face and trembling expression, he realized how close he was. His face burned as he quickly moved aside.

“Sorry, I… Um,” He cleared his throat and adjusted his shirt awkwardly. He folded his lips before strutting off back to his seat, gripping the neck of his guitar firmly. If it were a real person, I’d be as bright as a plum in his grip.

“It’s… alright” You managed to finally say through the nerves and pure anxiety. A moment of silence lingered between you two like a swarming disease.

“I can show you my Spotify playlist… For song suggestions, I mean” Law says, already shuffling through his pockets for his phone. Your head perked up at his suggestion, not even considering his idea. Timidly extending your hand out to grab his phone, he anxiously placed it in your hand.

You silently grazed her eyes upon the long list of songs of different genres and artists. Law seemed to have a plethora of different tastes, being the type of person to listen to two totally different songs depending on his mood. Most of which you recognized, and you saw a recurring pattern of your favorite musical artist. The frequency of the songs popping up with each swipe indicated that Law, too, enjoyed that artist.

“You like them?” You presented the profile of the mentioned artist that Law seemed to be following already. His face grew red by your words, causing nothing but embarrassment to seep through his expression.

“Yeah, I guess…” Law stammered on his words and tried everything in his willpower to avoid keeping eye contact. You grew a bright smile at his response, relieved that you found something in common with the awkward man.

“Cool! I—uh… Really like them too” You say, swiping your finger across the screen to find a song that you liked most. Law’s expression softened.

“Oh?” Is all Law managed to say. He ran his fingers through his locks and cracked a small smile, just to put the pensive awkwardness to rest.

“I don’t know many people who know them” Law continues. You gave him a happy glance, the first time ever since you two first exchanged names.

“Me neither. Here, we can do this song then” You say, handing back Law’s personal device he itched for. The song presented in front of him was also a song he similarly enjoyed. He chuckled, the low noise sending chills down your spine.

“I’m down” He shrugged.

Your hands pulled up sheet music digitally on your laptop beside you. Law seemingly did the same through his own device so the both of you were all set. Your house echoed with music as a warmup, it mainly being Law doing a staircase exercise for his fingers. You watched his fingers move smoothly and rhythmically as if he didn’t even have to keep his eyes on the neck of his guitar to make sure his fingers were on the right notes. Law could beautifully tame his guitar with his eyes shut and on the back of his head if he wanted to. Law caught your gaze, almost falling into a similar one.

“Ready…?” He said lowly. You snapped out of your small daydream to focus on the assessment at hand. You clicked your tongue and nodded profusely.

“Yeah-! Yeah, let’s get started!”

You two practiced the song for the first time and it went smoothly. You loved Law’s vocals, slowly lowering your own voice so his own was more apparent. He really was some sort of siren in disguise. You were sworn that if you kept admiring his vocals and talents, you’d be locked under some sort of spell if you hadn’t already.

I start to drown out, forget the sunrise

Are we alone now?

This planet on repeat, left frozen, boiling heat

Too late to find out, too late to find out

And I don’t need love

Your hands hiccuped on the cords, causing the music to stumble to a temporary halt. You grumbled at the fact you messed up a single cord but softened once your eyes trailed on a concerned Law. He had his brows furrowed, looking for an answer at the sudden halt. He telepathically asked you what was up, as if it was clearly spoken in your ears.

“Can’t seem to do this cord… Sorry,” You reply. Law placed his instrument on the other end of the couch to approach you. Each step you took matched your pounding heartbeat. As his inked hand lowered to rest on your frail ones, you were ready to explode.

You watched Law’s silvered necklace dangle on his neck as he leaned down toward you. The swinging of it was enough to hypnotize you as if his charming looks and voice weren’t enough. Law moved your fingers on the correct positioning the sheet music instructed you to do.

“Now strum f’me” Law directed. You halt for a moment, staring up at him for what seemed like decades before you did as told. It was like Law had your body in a chokehold with how obediently you grazed your pick on the metal strings. The note echoed through the walls, Law was more than satisfied with the correct noise in comparison to the hiccuped sound you performed before.

“Thanks…” You murmured. Law took his eyes from your hands, that were now in control by his own, and made eye contact with you. His cheeks grew vibrant, quickly retracting his hands. This time, though, his distance was still pretty close.

“Sorry, I keep messing up and you have to help so much…” You say bashfully, setting the instrument aside. Law cleared his throat once again and scratched his neck. You were starting to notice something consistent.

“It’s alright—I mean, I don’t mind… Helping you, I suppose” Law seemed like an anxious pre-teen with the way he was talking. Truth is, your doe eyes and sweet scent altered the way he saw you. You were cute and shared similar ambitions, Law couldn’t help but feel like a nervous little boy around you.

“You sing… Really nicely, by the way,” You abruptly compliment him, and that nearly made his heart stop. He eyed the neighboring as if it were the most beautiful sight to ever exist.

“Yeah, you too… Thanks” Law tried to cover his vulnerability by rubbing his face, but it was apparent. His terrible social skills and how easy it was to make him flustered, he was more than nervous around you.

“No wonder you’re better than me… I can’t even tune my guitar” You bashfully say, relaxing your tensed body into the seat more comfortably. Law raised an eyebrow for a moment before interlocking his arms together.

“So? You’re great at playing and singing” Law complimented. Despite his nice words, his tone was the opposite. It was like slipping off tin ice, cold as ever.

“Be proud in your playing, ya do it pretty well. Better than everything Iv'e seen in that class at least” Law continues. The eye contact shared between you two during a short pause was bone-chilling. You gave a soft smile.

“Thanks, Law. You’re not so bad after all” You’ve completely relaxed since you met him for the first time. He was quite awful at socializing, but he seemed nothing less than a sweet boy underneath.

“Whaddya’ mean?” Law raised an eyebrow. He nonchalantly leaned his body against the armrest of your couch.

“You’re so painfully awkward, I was worried I’ll forever suffer from awkwardness” You put it blunt, considering there was no other way to put it. You saw Law’s eyes widen and quickly separate his gaze from you out of embarrassment.

“Right erm-… Sorry, I guess…” You giggle at his embarrassment which you suddenly find rather adorable. His contrasting cold nature paired with a nervous attitude, you couldn’t help but blush.

“Hey, how about we go out for some coffee to get to know each other better” You suddenly say. Your lips move uncontrollably to say those words, never once asking anyone out in your life. Not like you never wanted to, but the idea of explaining your feelings was nerve-wracking. You quickly snapped back to reality. “Not like-! A date or anything, just like… Um- Settling in?” You squeak.

Law stared at you with tinted cheeks and wide eyes. He stammered, trying to find the right words to say but to no avail. Law’s indecisiveness was enough for you to completely backtrack on your embarrassing idea.

“Sorry, Forget about it, don’t worry-“ You panicked but Law quickly cut your frantic sentence in half with a clear of his throat. Your face was as bright as a bell pepper.

“No, it’s alright It’s just-… Never really been asked out before” Law was trying everything in his power to cover his face from embarrassment. You stayed silent, but your brain was ricocheting with thoughts. ‘No one asked him out before? How? Look at him! Er- Well, that makes a lot of sense, actually…’

“I—… Accept. It’s a date then” Law adjusts his shirt, presumably because of the added body temperature his nerves provided. Truthfully, Law had been sweating bullets the moment he stepped foot into your home. He was sure you casted some sort of spell with the scent of your perfume.

You eyeball him with dumbfounded eyes. His words racked your brain and you were in disbelief that he actually accepted, let alone called it a date. You couldn’t help but decompress your nerves by laughing, which caused a flustered Law to stare at you

“Sorry, I was just so embarrassed that I didn’t think you’d say yes” You relaxed your composure. Law soon did the same and you both exchanged relieved giggles and chuckles. This day couldn’t get any more weird.

“How’s tomorrow afternoon sound? We can do more than just sit for coffee” You exhale, smiling in bliss rather than in discomfort like how you’ve been resorting to all evening. Law nodded. The pigment of his cheeks seemed to relax.

“Sounds good t’me” Law gave you a half smile, and something told you that this time it was genuine and not full of embarrassment. You giggle.

“Alright. And there will be no sandwiches, kay?” You joked, only to receive an eye roll of Law from pure sass. Knowing that you managed to make a playful joke about him was a sign that you two were now friends, and maybe more of it all goes well.

“How kind of you, (F/N)-ya. Let's get back to playing" He replied sarcastically. Law tried not to make an amused smile but his body was too weak. He couldn’t help but crack his lips into it while picking up his guitar into his hands.

“Don’t mess up this time” He winks. Your heart was sure to burst and your heart rate was off the rails. You giggled, cheeks moderately pigmented to display your feelings.

“Shut up”

all licensing and ownership belong to eiichiro oda

[gogobootz1]

Just What I Needed

Aemond Targaryen x Reader

Summary: While taking a nighttime walk to calm your mind, you ran into someone unexpected.

A/N: this one was for funsies- not edited

Word Count: 800+ words

Your mind had kept you awake for far too long, and the linens had grown too warm from your body heat. Deeply discontent, and searching for comfort, you ventured outside as you always had. It took some wandering, but you’d finally made it to one of the gardens you had been taken past on your tour earlier. Taking in a deep breath and sighing it out in relief, you nearly let yourself collapse into the earth. You managed to stop yourself when you laid eyes on your husband-to-be. 

“Prince Aemond,” you began, eyes wide. A long moment of silence passed before you spoke again, “I did not mean to intrude… I shall leave you.” You gave a quick nod and hastened your steps. 

“Nonsense, my lady. If the thought of being married to me stresses you so, then the garden is yours.” His words made you stop in your tracks. 

You let out a guilty sigh, knowing how much of the tension between the two of you had been of your own doing, “it’s not you.” Shaking your head, you turned to face the man you’d soon be married to. “I- it’s the pomp.” 

“Pardon?” This was a very different side of you than he’d previously seen. Clearly, in the privacy of the garden, you felt comfortable enough to let more of yourself show through. 

“It’s… all of these people do not know me, and yet they’ve come to wish the happy couple well.” He could see you grow progressively more frustrated as you continued to speak. “Are you happy?! I am not.” 

Suddenly Aemond was quite interested in his future bride. After a moment he asked, “and what would make you happy?” 

“Some fucking peace and quiet!” you bit out. Having been raised among many siblings, and growing to be the most disappointing of the bunch, you’d had enough of the noise. The incessant sound of the many balls your father threw, and the never-ending parade of your siblings’ success echoed continuously in your head. Even when you were finally going into marriage, you could not escape the chatter. 

It took you a second to realize how inappropriate the current conversation you were having was. In the span of a few short moments, you had essentially told the prince you were extremely displeased with your impending marriage and all of the efforts the crown had exerted for a beautiful ceremony. You were certain your father would kill you. As his youngest daughter and last child, he’d had a hell of a time pawning you off. Lord Tyrell could not count the number of matches you’d spurned on one hand. This would inevitably be the latest in a long line. Aemond saw the panic wash over your face as you spoke once again, “oh, my prince, please forgive me. I’ve spoken out of turn.” 

“Fret not,” he was quick to interrupt, surprised by you once again. “You have nothing to apologize for. In truth, I believe that is the first time someone has spoken to me honestly in many years.” 

“Then that is what I will strive to give you as your wife. Honesty and my undying support,” you determined. His words had taken you aback but assuaged some of your worries. Prince Aemond was so obviously more complex than his intimidating reputation.  

He raised a brow at your statement, but it was not an unkind expression. “How would you have me serve you as your husband?” 

“Might I have a moment to consider it?” You asked quietly. 

“Certainly,” he said. "I would far prefer a well thought out response to a hasty one.” You nodded in response. 

You looked around the garden as you pondered his question, and also its strangeness. How might he serve you? Never had you thought that a man would give you such regard. 

“I would ask you to protect my privacy,” you started slowly, "grant me as many quiet moments as you can, and allow me the chance to earn your respect.” 

“Would you not rather have my love?” The prince asked, an intrigued look upon his handsome face. 

You let out a half laugh, “whatever I receive from you, my prince, I would like to be genuine.” With a smile on your face, you shrugged, “besides, my mother says that love is a fickle thing. I would much rather have your respect.” 

“You are well on your way, my lady,” he nodded after a moment, lifting your hand and pressing a chaste kiss to it. “I will bid you goodnight.” 

“Goodnight, Prince Aemond.” You said, admiring his face in the moonlight. 

“We can do away with the titles,” he spoke lowly. 

“Alright, Aemond,” you tested his first name carefully. “I shall see you on the morrow… at the alter.” Suddenly you remembered that the next day’s nuptials were what had caused your stress-visit to the garden. That sense of impending doom had shrunk rapidly in your chest. 

He was fighting off an amused grin as he nodded, “until then.” 

Watching his imposing figure disappear behind a corner, you allowed a small smile to grace your lips. Trips to the garden always helped. 

[hotxcheeto]

Hi! Hope your day is great!

Could you please write a reader(either having a crush or best friends with Vi) that is a rebellious rockstar (are there electric guitars in Arcane I don't remember) that is trying to expose Silco and get back Jinx by informing and rallying the people with her music. When Vi gets out of prison and looks for her sister she comes across the reader's live concert and spots some of Silco's goons attempting to cause an "accident" and tries to intervene.

Thanks for the fics I love every one of them!

━ 𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒

𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜(𝙨) - Vi x G/N!Reader

𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 - Cursing

𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 ? - Yeah/Nope

𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧'𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚 - honestly i'm not sure how much longer i will keep writing for arcane, i'm just not as passionate in the fandom as i used to be nor do i really find passion in writing for it anymore and i think that it's really showing in my writing and i don't want that to be the case nor do i want to disappoint people who love these fics. i will be finishing the rest of the requests i have for it, but from then, i am questioning continuing with it. thank you so much for requesting and i love that you love my fics!!

The music was at an ungodly volume that made Vi's head spin, walking through the crowds of people. The floods that Jinx neglected to warn her of when she'd told her where you were.

People were singing and screaming out the lyrics to the song that flooded through the speakers, the sounds of the instruments couldn't even attempt to drown out the person singing. They were much too strong.

Her mind was dazed at the thought of seeing you again. Wondering what you looked like now, if you'd stayed single or moved on with your life. If you missed her or not. Maybe you'd forgotten all about her.

No, that was stupid, she thought. You wouldn't forget her.

But what if you had? What if you locked eyes with the stranger that Vi had become and didn't recognize her at all? She was nobody to you anymore.

Vi nearly fought a few people trying to get through, fighting her thoughts at the same time before coming across a man that nearly made her trip. His face. She'd seen that face before. From where though was the question until her eyes shifted and another one that made the picture more clear, he'd caught her attention, waiting just near the stage.

He was the only one not singing, dancing or even smiling. Staring dead at the performers with his hand in his jacket.

Yeah, that face, she knew that face.

He'd been in the cell right next to hers.

She'd never forget, not when she'd smashed it in over a month ago.

He kissed Silco's ass, hardcore, and she doubted that he'd even been conscious enough to know who was beating his ass for talking shit. The scrawny little man had no idea who Silco truly was, or at least Vi had claimed so. The man disagreed.

Vi walked over to the guy, not even paying attention to the singing anymore, instead focused on him with tunnel vision so strong she was sure she'd never been more focused in her life.

He noticed it as well, finally tearing his eyes away from the singer and all the action to look over at the tall, muscular girl coming right at him. And something about that, Vi guessed, was intimidating.

But his eyes, his eyes told her that he knew exactly who she was.

His hand fell out of his jacket and he hurried right past her, even bumping her shoulder on the way. She just stared, stared at his back disappearing into the crowd of sweaty bodies that had now gone still.

That's when the realization that the music had stopped, there were cheers, but that was all. No strumming or drum hitting. Nothing.

She wondered if she imagined it.

"Vi?" She turned, eyebrows furrowed, seeing you standing there in a dramatic outfit with a powered down microphone in your hand.

"What the fuck?" Was the last thing that came out of your mouth before she hugged you. Your hands not moving from their place until your mind had caught up with the rest of you, your arms hugging her back.

"What're you doing here? How- you- you're alive? I mean, I heard rumors but... holy fuck."

"I swear I can explain it all." She said out of breath, despite not moving. Tears welled in her eyes and a choked tone that began to become more gravelly the more she leaned into your touch.

She could tell you were crying too. You were just better at keeping in.

"Was it you singing?" Vi pulled back, wiping her face as nonchalant as possible. "Yeah... it's more of a front than anything. Keeps a lot of heat off me but also... it makes it easier to do what's needed when people really like you."

Her eyebrows furrowed but you didn't elaborate, though from what Echo had told her about you and him trying to find a way to be rid of a certain old fuck, she guessed you'd need as much support as possible.

The guy might've been ancient looking, but he was no fool.

"So... singing?" You nodded at her question, gesturing to your friends. "These are my bandmates," they waved while continuing to pack equipment, in her haze, Vi barely even had noticed them take the same stage exit as you.

"..they were Echo's friends first." You joked, wiping away your own relief and sadness from your cheeks. "But they liked me."

"Who wouldn't?" She said before she could stop herself, looking you up and down once more trying to take in the fact you weren't the same kid she'd left behind. Or a kid at all.

"Hm, glad to see you're still a flirt." She watched you smile, the same smile you'd give her years go. "Some things never change."

There was an awkward, emotional silence between you both for a moment. Neither sure what to say.

"So..." You began. "Wanna get out of here?"

She nodded.

"That'd be nice."

[meiliarotten]

Team Fortress 2 Kinktober Time

Day 30: Observational Occupation (Voyeurism)

🔞MINORS DNI🔞

Pairings: Medic x Fem!Reader

Summary: Your new job leads to some interesting sights.

Tags: Voyeurism, security cameras, masturbation, fantasizing

Word Count: 3.3k

The Masterlist

The idea of someone having vacation time forced on them by the state was an odd one. Most people had the exact opposite problem. Yet that unlikely scenario was exactly what happened to Miss Pauling when it was discovered that she had not had a vacation since, well, forever- not counting the one day off a year she got. It was clear she was owed quite a bit of time away from her job, which meant that someone would have to take her place for a while, and that was where you became of use.

You were hired to temporarily work around the base while Pauling spent her immense amount of overdue vacation time doing… whatever it is she did during her free time. Honestly, she was most likely still working, simply out of habit. Needless to say, it was quite a shock to be promoted from what was essentially a Mann Co. lackey to taking over for the woman who was probably the most highly trusted employee under the Administrator’s control. The pay was incredible though, so you prepared yourself to learn how to dismember witnesses without being caught, dissolve bodies in acid, and countless other things, no matter how unpleasant it seemed.

Luckily for you, it seemed that a lot of Pauling’s duties, or rather, the duties she felt comfortable leaving to someone else, were far less intense. In fact, your main job wasn’t very hands-on at all. Specifically, you were to take on the responsibility of watching the cameras during the night and early morning. During the day, you did simple paperwork and took time to sleep while the daily battles went on outside. Certainly a time consuming job, but not a hard one. Definitely less difficult than the multiple felonies you were mentally preparing yourself to commit.

Your one concern was how isolated you seemed to be. You were to stay up all night on your own, watching the mercenaries from afar but never really interacting with them, and then the day was reserved for paperwork and getting what little sleep you could between the sounds of explosions and distant gunfire. But to your delight, you weren’t nearly as lonely as you expected.

The first few days were a bit rough as you reestablished your sleep schedule, but once that was done, you were able to make time to venture outside of your little camera room and talk with the mercenaries on occasion. After about a month- you still couldn’t believe Miss Pauling was owed this much time off- you had all become acquaintances, perhaps even friends.

At first Spy and Medic were the most interested in your company, although you soon realized it was due to your new responsibilities. They asked about the cameras often. Spy was the most pushy about it, his desire for information and secrets almost coming off as intimidating.

Medic, however, seemed genuinely interested in discussing your job in a way that you found charming, especially since he was always eager to talk about his own work as well whenever you asked. To say his experiments were gruesome at times would be an understatement, but his unrestrained excitement always made up for it. It didn’t make divulging information about your own work any easier, though. Even with this low effort job, there were a lot of secrets that had to be kept, even from your new coworkers. At least, that’s what Pauling had told you.

“So, fraulein, these cameras truly look over the whole base?” Medic asked casually one day while you watched him mess with a beaker full of some unknown fluid.

“That’s right,” you said, taking note of how the liquid seemed to begin smoking and bubbling within its container. Medic set it down on the counter and turned to face you with a contemplative expression.

“What about the private quarters?” He motioned to the door to his own room for emphasis, a room that branched off from his lab for the sake of convenience.

“What do you mean?” You asked, both trying to deflect and also finding yourself distracted by the now rapidly melting beaker on the counter.

“Are there cameras in our rooms?” He asked, a bit more slowly this time.

“It’s not likely. If there are, then I don’t have access to them.” You lied through your teeth, and Medic didn’t look very convinced. Luckily, his attention soon turned to the now liquified beaker, and the corrosive fluid that was rapidly trying to eat its way through the table it had spilled upon. You took the opportunity to slip away before he had the chance to ask any more questions.

During your very rudimentary training period, you had pointed out the fact that there were cameras in the mercenaries’ rooms. It seemed like a breach of privacy, but Pauling brushed off your concerns, insisting that the Administrator considered it necessary. It wasn’t long before you were privy to the personal lives of these men- all except Sniper, who managed to avoid observation just by living in a van. You’d have thought there would have been some kind of contingency plan for that, like simply putting cameras in the vehicle, but apparently not.

The guilt faded surprisingly fast as everything turned to monotony. The massive paycheck certainly didn’t hurt either. Honestly, very little happened in the evening that you didn’t already expect, and when everyone went to sleep it was even more tedious. More often than not, you found yourself watching the camera in Medic’s lab to stave off your boredom.

Medic spent the majority of his time in his lab, even late into the night, so when you needed to entertain yourself, you watched him. You couldn’t begin to understand what you were observing, or what he was trying to do, but it was interesting nonetheless. The huffed sighs when something went wrong, the look of deep concentration when he was analyzing results, but most of all, the wicked yet joyous laughter whenever he made a breakthrough made your heart flutter.

It seemed you had developed a little crush on the team’s doctor- or rather, ex-doctor. Sometimes you would get distracted and watch him for a bit too long. On occasion you would even catch yourself watching him while he slept, which usually happened whenever he passed out at his desk or at a lab table. You felt bad when you would end up doing that, like your infatuation was going a bit too far, but he just seemed so peaceful in that state that you couldn’t help but admire it.

You eventually got to the point where you knew the mercenaries so well that you could notice any change in their routines. It was almost frightening how much you knew about these men, but it was normalized as part of the job. Because of this, you immediately took notice one night when Medic deviated from his usual schedule of staying up past midnight working diligently in his newest medicine- or chemical weapon, depending on whether or not he accidentally created acid again. How he managed to maintain such a high energy demeanor while sleeping less than a few hours per night was a mystery to you. Perhaps tonight his exhaustion was finally catching up with him, as you watched him retire to his private quarters much earlier than ever before.

Your face heated up a bit when he began to undress. You would be fine. It obviously wasn’t anything you had not seen before in this line of work, and you could remain professional. At least that’s what you told yourself, even as your eyes followed his hands, deft fingers swiftly undoing the buttons of his vest, and then his shirt. You bit your lower lip hard, hoping the pain would bring you back to reality and give you the willpower to avert your gaze.

“Get a grip. He’s your colleague,” you muttered to yourself, exasperated with your own emotions.

Unfortunately, what happened next would do nothing to calm said emotions. Medic paused after shucking off his vest and shirt, laying them both at the foot of the bed. You watched curiously as he opened his night stand, shuffling items around within the drawer until he retrieved a small bottle. With your view slightly obscured, you assumed it was a flask of alcohol, but that possibility was immediately snuffed out when he poured the contents into the palm of his hand, showing that it was far too viscous to be alcohol. He placed the bottle back, sitting down on the mattress, his free hand now going to the zipper on his pants and- Oh .

Realization hit you like a sledgehammer. You tried to calm your rapidly increasing heart rate with several deep breaths, none of which seemed to work. This really shouldn’t have been so unexpected. After all, you had been on this job for about a month now, it was bound to happen. In fact, it had happened a few times before. But those instances involved the others, the ones that you didn’t have any personal interest in, the ones you found easy to ignore.

Not to mention that there was one other major problem- the way you usually distracted yourself from the other’s ‘personal activities’ was by watching Medic as he carried out his experiments. Obviously, that wasn’t exactly an option here.

Your mind raced. The fact that you were fairly enamored with the doctor- or rather, ex doctor- made this seem all the more perverted, all the more wrong. Damn it, you were still watching, and things were progressing.

Medic’s eyes were half lidded as he began to stroke himself, and you found yourself unable to avert your eyes. It was a hypnotizing sight, watching him keep a steady pace while gripping the bed sheets with his free hand. You kept a similar white-knuckled grip on the arms of your chair, pressing your thighs together desperately and feeling your face heat up.

Pangs of guilt that you hadn’t felt since first starting this job returned with a vengeance. Not only were you watching, but you were very much enjoying the show. It was evident from how flushed and needy you suddenly felt, how you could already feel your arousal dampening your undergarments.

“It wouldn’t be too bad to just indulge a little bit…” You tried to reassure yourself. The pressure between your legs was beginning to chip away at your resolve. You hastened over to the door and locked it, continuing to mutter to yourself half-heartedly, trying to justify what you were about to do. “It’s just stress relief, the removal of a distraction so that I can focus on my job.”

You took a deep breath and leaned back in your chair, sliding your hand down your lower stomach and beneath the waistband of your pants and underwear. After a moment of hesitation, you ran your fingers along your slit, shuddering the moment you made contact. You were already so wet, and it was easy enough to slip a finger within yourself before shifting your focus to your clit.

Small, circular motions were used to massage that sensitive little area while you alternated between squeezing your eyes shut and watching the screens intently. Medic had started off fast, almost desperate, as if he hadn’t had the chance to do this in a while, but he seemed to have reigned himself in, now stroking himself slowly, clearly intending to make this last.

It took all of your willpower to hold back as well, wanting to match his pace, even if it was frustratingly slow, even as your body ached for something more. You found yourself muttering small pleas under your breath, urging him to go faster as if he could hear you. Of course, it was a futile attempt. Not only could Medic not hear you, but it seemed that he very much enjoyed teasing himself with such an agonizingly slow pace. You wondered if that meant he liked to tease his partners as well.

Oh, that was certainly a fantasy you could explore. You closed your eyes for a moment, letting yourself be fully immersed in the idea of Medic stroking your clit, bringing you to the brink of orgasm before stopping to ravish other parts of your body, planting rough kisses against your neck and lips, running his tongue along sensitive skin, kneading your breasts. He would make his way along your entire body until you were begging him to let you come.

That train of thought was interrupted by the sound of heavier breathing and a low groan from the camera feed. With a shudder and some immense self control, you stopped touching yourself. Those noises alone were threatening to send you over the edge quicker than you wanted. It really had been a while since you had the chance to indulge in your desires like this. You wanted to enjoy it to the fullest extent.

You leaned forward slightly, turning the volume up a bit more on the camera feed you were currently fixated on. Medic certainly wasn’t a quiet man, and that knowledge only made him more attractive to you. Once again you were swept up into a fantasy, imagining him moaning in your ear as he ravished you, letting you know exactly how good he felt, how good you were making him feel.

Your nails dug into your thighs as you tried to restrain yourself, wanting to let your body calm down just a little more before you started pleasuring yourself again. You barely noticed the slight pain with how fixated you were on the scene. He really was a handsome man. Of course, you had already known that, but he was even more so now, with his lips parted slightly, panting and moaning, the subtle glistening of sweat in his forehead.

You took the time to admire Medic’s body as well, now that you had the chance. His uniform on its own was certainly attractive. You were hesitant to admit it, but you had quite a few fantasies involving you clutching desperately at the white material of his lab coat as he did various unspeakable things to you. However, it did hide some of his physique. Now, there was nothing to obscure those defined muscles, evidence of just how strong he was, most likely from carrying his Medigun and other weaponry on the battlefield daily.

It probably wouldn’t be difficult at all for him to overpower you.

And with that thought, your fingers were rubbing at your clit again, just enough to relieve some of the arousal that was making your head spin. You bit your lip to keep yourself from moaning. Your current actions were already debaucherous enough without you shamelessly crying out for anyone to hear. Of course, the door was locked, and you had cameras that you could easily check to make sure no one was nearby, but that would mean directing your attention away from the erotic display before you. That wasn’t something you were willing to do when you were already in so deep.

At this point there really wasn’t any excuse you could use to say that you weren’t explicitly getting off to your coworker. However, guilt had long since been left behind, replaced with arousal and pleasure as you and Medic both took on a more frantic pace.

“Gott, ja…” Medic groaned softly as he sped up, stroking himself and letting needy whines fall freely from his lips. You kept up with him, thrusting and curling your fingers within yourself, breathing heavily and allowing a few whimpers to escape despite your best efforts to keep quiet.

The sight of him bucking up into his own hand in time with his strokes really made your imagination run wild. You so desperately wanted him to be thrusting into you like that. You wanted to be at his mercy, those powerful hips meeting yours and pounding you against the mattress, the only other sounds being the squeaking of a bed frame and each other’s moans. You were so close.

Medic tensed up, legs and back stiffening slightly before he finally released over his own hand. He muttered to himself between gasps, words that you weren’t able to understand but were made erotic all the same by the sultry, breathy tone in which he spoke them. He continued to stroke himself throughout his climax, shuddering slightly from overstimulation before he finally calmed down.

Your orgasm followed soon after, and you let the pleasure overtake you in strong waves, eventually finding yourself unable to contain your sounds. Low moans echoed in the small office where you resided. Thankfully the room was rather out of the way, so it was unlikely that anyone was nearby. Even so, shame made the heat rise in your cheeks even more than it already had. When you came down from your high you were left breathless, leaning back in your chair and panting heavily.

If only you could allow yourself the time to bask in the afterglow, but unfortunately, the fact that you still had a job to do brought you back to reality. With a sigh, you began to gather yourself, picking your underwear and pants up from the floor. You realized, slightly startled, that you didn’t even remember removing them completely. Out of the corner of your eye you noticed Medic doing the same, cleaning up and getting dressed.

Still breathing a bit hard, you moved to turn the volume back down to the default settings. One thing you had learned about Miss Pauling during your training period was that she was meticulous about details, and the last thing you needed was her asking why one of the feeds was at a higher volume than the others. You had a feeling she would see right through any excuse you made up.

You froze when you looked back at the screen, seeing Medic now fully dressed and glancing at the camera, at you . You hesitated, then assumed it was just a coincidence. Anyone could happen to glance into the cameras without even noticing it, and while it was startling, it usually wasn’t a cause for concern.

Something about this felt different though. The intensity of Medic’s gaze made you feel weak, completely exposed to him, especially with the memory of what you had just done fresh in your mind. And then he winked. He fucking winked at the camera, grinned, and proceeded to strut off back into his lab to continue his work as if nothing had happened. He knew. You had no idea how, but he most certainly knew, and it sent your mind racing.

You thought back to your prior conversations with Medic, many of which had to do with the nature of your job. Had you carelessly dropped a hint about the location of the cameras? Had he figured it out on his own when you were dodging his questions earlier? Or was he aware all along, and asking those questions was his way of trying to clue you in that he knew?

Your face heated up when you realized the baser, more lust-driven implications of this. The way Medic pleasured himself despite knowing about the cameras, then stared into the lens with that damn grin that sent your heart racing, it was purposeful. He put on that little show knowing you would see. It was an invitation to experience the real thing, and based on what you had seen tonight, you had a feeling that the ‘real thing’ would live up to your fantasies quite nicely. You shivered and took a deep breath, trying to calm yourself down. You didn’t have the time to risk getting yourself worked up all over again.

With a grin of your own, you glanced towards a calendar hanging on the office wall. The next ceasefire was in about a week, and you knew exactly how you were going to take advantage of Medic’s rare moments of free time. If you were lucky, you might even get some encore performances in the weeks leading up to then. With a giddy laugh, you leaned back in your chair, knowing that it would still take every last ounce of professionalism you had in you to look Medic in the eye tomorrow. It was still completely worth it.

[theealluringstoryteller]

Against The World Around Us

Chapter 2

The rewrite

The sound of heels clicking against the freshly polished wooden floors alerted the maids and butlers of the approaching Queen and her dear friend The Baroness. Breaths were held as the pair passed each who stopped to greet the Queen with a bow each waiting to see the imperial act the way they were told imperials acted: cold and entitled but,all they received was a warm smile and a short greeting made in a soft voice that didn't intimidate them at all. Smiles of relief made it’s way on to the palace workers faces instead of dirty hostile looks she was once sure she would receive.

"See! You were nervous for no reason." Aurelia hummed looping her arm with the Baroness's.

"You can't blame me for being a little nervous.” Omorose huffs gluing a smile on as they passed by a few more.

Rolling her eyes Aurelia let out a laugh "look at you and look at them! Behaving like nervous School children!"

Omorose smiled grew with what her friend was saying realizing how funny the situation was.

“I’m considered an enemy in foreign land! I have a right to be nervous.” Omorose stated in a slight whine leaning into Aurelia's warmth.

"An enemy in foreign land... " Aurelia repeated her silly mood dropping and replaced with concern. "I hope you know you're safe here Rosie " Aurelia said squeezing Omorose's upper arm. Their Journey through the halls towards the Queen's drawing room that held a surprise halted as Aurelia assured her close friend.

Omorose didn't want to offend or worry Aurelia with her thoughts of concern that she forced herself to swallow when she decided to travel into Intacia. She counted the risks, she went over each scenario then she put on a brave face and never looked back.

“Thanks for the reassurance, Lia. It’s just the war is over and everyone is trying to pick up the pieces and I don’t know where it’s going to leave me in the end.” Omorose’s admitted “And I know that sounds selfish but being in my position right now is so stressful,”

“Marriage proposals, pleads to fund imperial campaigns, and people demanding to know which side you are on since a rise of resistance have surged so soon?” Aurelia listed already having some knowledge of what's going on through gossip.

A groan left Omorose’s lips at the mention of all the things she left in the imperial Capitol.

“Please!” She began to beg “let’s not go over those things! I’ve left those things in the coastal empire.”

“Alright …” Aurelia shrugged her shoulders “on a better note I … have a surprise for you in my drawing room!”

Curiosity peeking Omorose’s couldn’t help but to ask “A surprise?”

Nodding Aurelia practically dragged Omorose down the hall and stairs towards said room. Excitement radiating off of her, shining through her smile. Struggling to keep up in her delicate taller heels the Baroness made a few comments and requests for Aurelia to slow down especially as they descended the stairs but all her words fell on deaf ears leading to the Baroness tripping and nearly falling on her face. “Woah!” A voice said catching the Baroness by the waist “You have to be more careful, Beautiful.” They said in a more flirty tone. Before Omorose could show her appreciation to whoever stopped her from falling Aurelia pulled her arm.

“Aurelia can you please slow down!” Omorose’s pleaded turning to glance over her shoulder to see who saved her only to see king Rhett blocking her view

“Castin! It’s good you’re here” Rhett said as he pulled the other man into a hug.

“In your letter you said you needed me,” Castin stated mindlessly returning the hug “Brother.” He added solidifying why he was there despite giving his attention to the woman he saved from falling.

“Ah, I see you’ve met the Baroness,” Rhett playfully nudged Castin’s shoulder.

In disbelief Castin couldn’t help but ask “That’s the Baroness?”

His eyes started on her figure until she finally disappeared around a corner.

“That’s not what I pictured,”

Resisting an eyebrow Rhett gave Castin a questioning look “What? Didn’t expect her to be so pretty?”

A snort left Castin as he rolled his eyes. “So pretty?” Questioned Castin shaking his head not seeing that word correlate with the woman he briefly saw. ‘She’s gorgeous’ he thought allowing Rhett to lead him into the ‘war’ room.

“Ta dah! Aurelia cheered opening the door to reveal a beautifully decorated cake, a bottle of champagne and a banner that read “Yay! The two headed dragon has been slayed by the sea!” Omorose’s read before turning to a proudly grinning Aurelia with a look that said ‘Really?’

“Oh don’t look at me like that! Your parents were evil.” Aurelia stated as of Omorose’s was unaware. “And you deserve to celebrate being free of them.” She added ushering Omorose into the room.

Eyeing the white cream and fresh berry covered three layered cake The Baroness couldn’t help but to crave a slice of the Berry Chantilly cake

“My favorite! Aw Lia, you remembered!” Cheesing Omorose took a seat as Aurelia threw confetti she pulled out what seemed like no where, the colorful pieces fell and scattered over the floor, table and all over Omorose.

“This is so sweet! I love it Lia, thank you.” Omorose went on, dusting the confetti off her cleavage and the top of her lilac dress.

“Oh no need to thank me. Your whole time here is going to be a good time! I know the sudden responsibility and getting hounded has your head spinning. If I can I’m going to try to my best to keep you at ease here.”

“YOU WANT ME TO GET MARRIED TO SOMEONE I DON’T KNOW!” Screamed the Baroness.

2 weeks had passed since Aurelia made the promise of trying to keep her friend at ease but as problems progressed between the rising Intacia and the fallimg Empire Aurelia had to put her friendship aside and her duties as Queen to the forefront.

Rhett her husband sprung the idea to her four days before she got the courage to bring it up to the Baroness.

"yes." Aurelia stated firmly drinking the remainder of the wine she brought to break the ice.

“You know how I feel about marriage-”

“I do! And I feel that you need to grow up!”

Taken aback Omorose hands found their ways to her hips as she hissed out “Excuse me?”

Aurelia bit her bottom lip mentally cursing herself out for adding fuel to the fire but, she couldn’t take back her words and she wouldn’t even think about doing so.

“Omorose you never give the chance to anyone to give you the relationship you keep telling me you long for! And I think I know why-”

“Why?” The Baroness demanded moving her arms to cross them over her chest. Her body buzzing with so much emotion it nearly felt like a wild fire swept across her.

“You’re scared you’re going to end up like your parents!”

A noise left the Baroness’s lips as she fell onto the soft cushions of the sofa. She knew she couldn’t deny that fact but there was another reason.

“Despite that Aurelia everyone that has approached me has shown me their true intentions-”

“So let me and Rhett pick for you! You can met them and if you don’t like them we can arrange for you to meet other suitors.”

“Do you think this would work? Marrying me off to an Intacian while the Empire rebels against you and Rhett?”

Aurelia repeated the lines that Rhett told her when he was convincing her why Omorose was the perfect candidate for the arrangement.

“You’re apart of a very influential and powerful family! You getting married to an Intacian who is equally influential could bring our people together. Show them that we can be one kingdom.”

“I have my doubts but for you and the potential peace I’ll do it.”

Relieved Aurelia pulled her friend into a hug.

“Wonderful! I’ll let you finish your night routine now. I’m going to tell Rhett.”

By morning Rhett had made his way to his number one pairing choice. Walking into the Barracks Rhett greeted his soldiers until he found his Commander.

“Heeeyyy Rhett? Whatcha doing here?” Castin asked walking back to his room from the communal bathroom. A towel hanging loosely around his waist and a toothbrush in his mouth.

“I’ve come to ask you to do something that could help us bring Intacia and the Empire together.”

That sentence made Castin’s eyebrow raise.

“Maybe we should speak in your room-”

Quickly Castin blocked Rhett from his door not wanting to to see who was on the other side. Familiar with this behavior Rhett disappointingly asked “who is she this time,Castin.”

A nervous laugh passed through Castin as he looked down at Rhett’s shoes to avoid his eyes.

“More like them-”

“Them! Castin your supposed to be a leader and a role model to those you lead and you have multiple women in your room-”

“I’m not on the battlefield I need to release this lent up energy somehow-”

“I think this proposition would be good for you.” Rhett claims shaking his head and pinching the bridge of his nose.

“A proposition?”

“An arranged marriage-”

“No!” Castin cut Rhett off shutting down the proposal. If he was going to be one half of a marriage he was going to be the one to pick the other half of said marriage.

“An arranged marriage to the Imperial Baroness Omorose Fentress.” Rhett went on to say waiting for Castin to shut him down again.

“Aurelia’s friend? That woman I stopped from falling?” Questioned Castin suddenly interested.

“Yes.”

Castin turned his eyes to the ceiling in thought. His toothbrush out of his mouth and his hands securing his towel.

He didn’t see much of her that day but he could tell she was a beauty. He weighed out the pros and cons of the marriage and couldn’t get passed the biggest con of them all.

“She’s an Imperial.”

“We are taking the Empire Castin it doesn’t matter.”

Doesn’t matter.” Castin scoffed.

“It doesn’t! Besides she’s nothing like the Imperials we’ve come across, trust me Brother.”

It went silent for a moment Castin still thinking it over before giving in.

“We’ll look at you getting me settled down like you.” He joked subtly agreeing to the arrangement.

“So you’ll do it?”

“Anything for you,Brother.”

“Good it’s settled then! I’ll make the arrangements for the engagement ceremony! You bring a gift to offer your bride.”

Just as Rhett finished his sentence Castin’s door opened and the stench of last night’s activities followed the three women who dressed scantily out of the room. Each giving Castin a kiss on the lips as a farewell. Stupidly grinning castin said “Goodbye ladies-”

“Castin!” Rhett scowled watching on in disappointment. The stupid grin fell from Castin’s face as he caught his ‘big brother’ figure peer down at him with a look that reminded him of his mother.

“Be sure to get checked out by the physician! Last thing you need to do is give the Baroness something incurable, and maybe try celibacy until you are wed.” Rhett suggested pushing Castin into his room before turn in on the heels of his feet to leave.