#but really he’s just a kid and he’s scared and he wants everything to be alright

[sturnioz]

꒰ STURNIOZ KINKMAS '24 ꒱ !

shy!reader isn't feeling too good, so she goes to fratboy!chris for a fix.

you're not sure why you're feeling the way you do, but you're miserable... and grouchy.

maybe you're just overstimulated and overwhelmed because everything seems to be getting under your skin — even the most smallest of things that you would usually brush off.

you gnaw anxiously at your bottom lip as you make your way into the frat house on a wednesday evening, your skin prickling uncomfortably and heart racing as you try to shake off the tension while walking up the staircase, ignoring the greetings from the frat brothers as they pass. (you know you'll regret later when your mood has lifted).

finally, you reach chris' room, and your hand trembles as you twist the doorknob and push the door open, but the moment you step inside, you're immediately hit by the strong scent of weed—thick and suffocating—and you want to cry, tears bubbling in your eyes as a whine leaves your lips.

"whaaat the fuck..." chris drawls as he lifts his head from the rolling tray, his eyebrows furrowing in annoyance as he looks at you. "why the fuck are you cryin'?"

"i'm so..." you struggle to find the right words, scrunching up your nose as you try to find a way to express the overwhelming emotions swirling within—tears falling down your cheeks while your bottom lip quivers.

"m'not a mind reader, kid. can't know what the fuck is goin' on if you don't use your words, yeah?" he snaps, his tone blunt and unbothered which makes you feel worse, and you can't help but thump your food against the ground—instantly regretting it when chris' gaze sharps, his dark eyes narrowing as they lock onto you with an incredulous glare. "really?"

"i just... i need your help. need... need a fix."

chris leans back, his eyebrow raised. "you think m'gonna give you a fix after throwin' a tantrum like a—"

"that wasn't a tantrum!" you snap, only to duck your head when chris gives you another sharp look, feeling the heat of embarrassment flood your face. you sniffle, hastily wiping your nose and tears on your sleeve, your voice dropping into a whisper. "just... just need you... please?"

chris' eyes narrow again, and he prods his tongue against his cheek, his jaw tightening as he studies you for a moment before dramatically rolling his eyes. he pushes the rolling tray aside as he mutters, "get over here."

you're quick to walk over, your heart pounding as you crawl onto the bed, settling into the middle and letting out a shaky exhale as you sink into the mattress. chris huffs under his breath as he shifts beside you, propping himself up on his elbow, his gaze fixed on you as his hand moves to unbutton your jeans, pulling down the zipper before shoving his hand inside your panties.

you feel the urge to whine and complain—to tell him that it feels too stuffy to still be in your jeans, but your words fail to come through when he rubs your clit in slow circles, making your thighs twitch and legs shift around on the bed.

"stay still," he grumbles under his breath as he speeds up his motions, thumbing at your clit while two fingers push through your puffy folds, finding your already dripping entrance and he tsks, his eyes meeting yours. "needed me that bad?"

"d-don't be mean," you pathetically mewl, capturing your bottom lip between your teeth as your head leans back against the pillows, gripping the sheets with a muffled moan as he slides his fingers into your warmth, curling them against your spongy walls.

"hey—mean? can't... can't be mean when i got m'fingers shoved in this little pussy, bun. givin' you exactly what you wanted. what you were beggin' me for," he forces his fingers deeper and you gasp, your body falling limp against the mattress as he begins to thrust them in and out, causing your legs to tremble. "want me to be fuckin' mean, bun? 'cos i can—i'll take my fingers out right now 'n watch you fuckin' cry to be touched."

"no!" you raise your voice a little, scared, worried. you didn't want him to do exactly that, and a wave of dread washes through you as you feel him slowly pull his fingers back. "p-please! m'sorry!"

"yeah? you sorry?"

"i am! m'so sorry!" you're a mess—a teary, sniffly, mewling mess as your hips buck against his hand, your own reaching out to fist the front of his shirt, hoping to keep him right where he is. "please i... i need you. you're not mean. i didn't mean it."

"didn't mean it?" chris repeats in a condescending tone, your pussy squelching when he fucks his fingers back in, thumbing madly at your clit that has you whimpering, thrashing against him.

you bury your face in his chest, the sounds you make muffled. you're losing your mind, the pleasure swirling in the pit of your tummy, the clothes clinging uncomfortably to your heated skin, clammy and sticky with sweat.

"shhhh," chris coos mockingly, driving his fingers faster into your cunt that has you seeing stars. "don't want anyone hearin' how bad you need me, do you?"

divider credits. @issysh3ll

© STURNIOZ

[theartofwoompwoomp]

Hello? Would it be OK for a (female) human child who basically adopted Shadow as her’s(parent)

You know this is a very interesting idea. Mainly because it implies that the human could have chosen anyone as their parental guardian, yet they choose Shadow known for being the edgelord lol

Me????

shadow x humanchild!reader (platonic)

————————————————————————

Now when the whole sonic crew had asked who you wanted to stay with for the night no one was expecting you to choose Shadow.

heck, not even Shadow could believe it. Not that he let it show on his face, but he knew kids didn’t really like him. Most of them got scared and avoided him or would start crying.

but you,… you were practically glowing and cheering in excitement when he agreed.

he just couldn’t say no to you.

he knew children could be impulsive with their decisions, but you where dead set on staying with him. And no one opposed, some because they knew he’s lived with humans before, others because that’s what you wanted.

Regardless you were very happy to be with him.

As he was leading you towards his bike he hadn’t realized you didn’t have the gear to join him in the first place. 

And not wanting to risk you falling off, he decided to just teleport the both of you.

As he went to pick you up, you latched yourself tight small giggles escaping you, “ha, I caught you.”

Your childishness bringing a small smile on his face. “Hmm, so it seems.” Your own giggles intensifying at his reaction. You didn’t know why, but he made you feel safe.

Following his instructions to close your eyes, feeling as skin got cold, you gripped a bit tighter as everything got lighter.

Once you felt gravity again your head felt a little drowsy.

His hand hovering over your forehead helping it stay in place. You had passed out. The teleportation taking a toll on your small body. He wasn’t sure how to care for you exactly, but he knew a good start was food.

After setting you down on the couch he headed towards the kitchen. Opening an old recipe book Vanilla gave him. Scanning the pages he choose one that you might like. 

A smell hit your nose, whatever it was it smelled delicious. The scent feeling familiar as your eyes fluttered open. 

You were in a living room, no one was there but you could hear someone in the next room.

As you crept closer the scent got stronger. Hunger was also making itself evident the longer you sniffed the air.

“Oh, you’re awake.”

Jolting in place, you twist your head and see him. He had some cooking utensil in his hand. “I made some food, do you want some?”

He was gentle with his words, making sure to be patient for your response. 

At first he was worried when he saw you walking around. You were calm but so tense, almost as if you were afraid. But as he waited, he saw your worries slip from your face as smile stretched and your eyes twinkle.

You were practically jumping off your tiny feet when he mentioned food. Having everything set you both sat down to eat. 

At some point you did ask why he eats the smelly beans without cooking them, and he simply responded he’s always eaten them like that. 

when he got up to pick everything up, you shoved a handful of those smelly beans before he could stop you. “Wait— those aren’t for kids,” it was too late. you had eaten some of it, and spit out the rest.

Your face red as you gagged trying to get rid of the taste made him chuckle. He had forgotten how impulsive children could be. 

The next few hours went flying. Y’all had tried some games you knew: tag, hide-in-seek, and princess and dragons. He was the princess lol. All in all, he enjoyed the pure joy you brought in the little things.

Usually anger and a strange emptiness was the primary emotions he always felt. Which is why he’s surprised at the peace your presence brings him. It makes him want to be silly just to see your smile and giggles. 

You were definitely growing on him.

As he made sure you were tuck in bed your voice whispered through the air, “Shadow, thank you for choosing me.” 

…Choosing you?

If anything you had chosen him. Your eyes were already closing but he didn’t want to leave it at that. 

“Kid, Im the one that should be thanking you.”

And with that your soft breaths filled the room. He may have only met you recently, but in that short time you managed to give him a purpose.

You needed him, and he needs you. 

He’s not a perfect guardian, but maybe, just maybe, he can learn for you.

———————————————————————

Masterlist 

This took awhile to make but thank you soo much for the request ! 

[arilevenatz]

You are

Pairing: pirate!jongho x town girl!reader

Genre: fluff

Word count: 9.6k

Warnings: Violence, kidnapping, abuse (not done by the boys) minor character death, jongho is a shy baby, lmk if I missed any!!

AN: I feel like screaming. This has been in my drafts for more than a year when the 'Everything' MV came out. The MV broke me and I was a crying mess. If y'all couldn't tell, my bias is jongho and I have seen that there are not that many good jongho fics in any platform. So I have taken the initiative. (Even tho idk if it's good or not) Anyway if y'all wanna be tagged just reply with your @ . AND please reblog and like it helps me a lot. I kinda fucked up the ending so y'all are free to imagine whatever the fuck y'all want

Nassau, an island which was claimed by the crew of Halazia. The ship was giant and very beautiful as well.

One slight issue,

It's a pirate ship

The pirates of the Halazia are the most feared of them all. They are known for not having any mercy towards any ship they come across.

Yes, even the ones with a white flag.

But Nassau is an island which is owned by them, so it is common for the people living near the harbor to see them come and go.

I, however lived further in the town, so I have never really seen them. Not that I want to as well. I'm scared they might kill me.

Though I doubt that will happen cause they have never really killed any innocent here in Nassau. Not that I've heard that is.

Waking was hard. Going to greet the family was harder. Answering their dumb questions was the hardest.

They say the youngest kid is always the most loved of them all. Not in our case.

We are big on family. And the worst part? We all live in the same plot, but in different houses. Me, being the youngest child in the house, I'm a personal punching bag.

Stuffs like "your brothers are doing so good, you need to follow them aswell" and "your brothers and sister have taken majors in science, you will too I hope" were normal to me.

Ever since I was young, my mom taught me.

If you wanna live in this house without getting called out every time, you have to fake a smile. Please everyone, child. Because of your father, you have to please everyone.

That was then, but now she has changed. She was forced to do so by these monsters in the name of people. I kinda miss her…

I heard my name being called. Looking at the source I saw my mom.

"I know you just woke up but, can you go to the port market and get us some things?"

"Mom, I just woke up..."

"Listen to your mom kid"

I looked at the source, great, my other aunt. Blinded by the pride of marrying a rich doctor, she thinks she is the head of the family, although she is the youngest sibling of my dad.

"yes yes, she will go, won't you kid?" her eyes pleaded to me, not wanting her child to be scolded in the morning.

"yes ma"

I took the money and left.

Being the youngest, I was always called "kid" or "child". It's weird I know, but i don't even care anymore.

The market's a bit far. I have to cross a little outskirt of a jungle. Though I don't have to cross the jungle, it's still a bit scary. But it's dawn, so it's alright right now.

After the jungle, a little walk by some alleyways and then it's the market!

The market was one of my favorite places to be in. Just look at it! It's so lively and colourful. It's so nice that it can make me forget about home for some time.

Ok let's check the list of items. Chili powder, parsley, biscuits and rum.

Hah! That stupid uncle of mine! How can he make a young girl like me buy alcohol early in the morning?!

I eventually got all the supplies and also got the rum. The shopkeeper was my dad's and uncles's friend so he gave me the rum I wanted, but I doubt he would've if he didn't know me. I mean come on, who gives alcohol to a young girl?!

"That will be ten bronze kid"

I handed him the money when suddenly I heard a high pitched laugh

"jongho, at least try to bargain once in your life! Do you or do you not want to save money??"

Looking in the direction, I saw two men. One has black hair, the other one has black and white hair.

What a strange hair colour...aren't his parents dissapointed?

Both of them are dressed in big tunics and black leather pants. The tunics loosely tucked in their pants.

"shopkeeper-nim, can we get this rum?"

The oreo guy handed the shopkeeper a note, seemingly a list.

"No mates, the last one was taken by this lady here"

He pointed at me. Damn dawg why you gotta throw me under the bus?

It was now when the two men looked at me.

"Aren't you too young to drink?"

"Land Ahoy!!!!"

The booming voice of the first mate who is also the quarter master, can be heard from below the deck. He had just spotted an island. Their island,

Nassau.

Beautiful island, with beautiful people and beautiful owners.

hehe

"Mingi, drop the anchor!"

"done!"

"captain, we need to scavenge", the quartermaster and first mate of Halazia, Seonghwa stated to their captain, the one and only, Hongjoong.

"I'm aware. Is the scavenger team ready?"

"I have already concerned Wooyoung, him and his team are ready to go"

"Good"

"Captain!"

The captain and quartermaster flinched by the voice of the surgeon.

"San! You unruly swine! What if the the captain got scared and let go of the helm?!", the quartermaster scolded the younger guy.

"Seonghwa do you mean that I get scared by small things?"

The two of the other males in the room nodded.

"all of you are scared cats"

"Bitch-"

All three males in the room flinch by the sudden intruder.

"Yunho, do you want me to order Yeosang to cut of your hair in your sleep?"

"Captain it was a joke!!"

"Anyways, captain, I came here to inform you that Mingi needs materials to fix the ship, however, he has work to do, so someone has to go on land with Wooyoung to get the supplies", San, the surgeon states.

The captain has now successfully ported the ship and now can let go of the helm. He turned to his crew and told them to follow him. And he went towards the maindeck.

"Send Jongho. He does not have any work for the time being"

"ok!"

San sprinted away almost in a comical way while muttering something which sounded suspiciously like a "smooth operator~"

The battlemaster was in the arms locker. The giant locker was home to weapons for the battlemaster as well as guns for the master gunner, Yunho.

The battlemaster, Jongho, was busy cleaning his swords. Call him a clean freak but he needs to clean all his swords and cutlasses. Not because he is a clean freak, it's cuz a certain someone will scold him if he does not.

"Do you wanna build a snowman?"

"San are you a child?"

The first mate gets inside the locker and sits beside the younger male.

"I am not, but I know a certain someone is though"

"You swine"

The crew of the Halazia is known as the scariest crew outside, but inside the ship, they all are one braincell sharing idiots.

"Anyways, captain ordered you to do to port and get some stuff with wooyoung-ie" The younger boy looked at the first mate with his boba eyes. "what stuff?"

"mingi needs some stuff to repair the broken and probably for his new invention and shit"

"Ok then”

“meat, coriander, honey, alcohol and maybe some broccoli for the soups"

"Wooyoung, why do you need alcohol? Are you gonna drink again?"

The cook of Halazia, wooyoung and the young battlemaster, jongho are set out for an adventure, an adventure to find the specific kind of alcohol for the surgeon of the ship, San.

"What? No! I am getting it because Sanie asked me to!

This morning, San had barged in the kitchen and asked wooyoung to get a special kind of rum, which helps to clean cuts.

Yeah the young boys have no idea how to find it…

"aren't you too young to drink?" jongho asked the girl they just came across in the shop.

The girl didn't say anything and just stayed silent.

"jongho-ya you scared the poor girl"

"No I did no-"

"you can have it"

Both the males looked at the young girl. She has her hand out and in her hand resides the rum bottle.

"You can have it"

"No no we ca-" jongho was cut of by wooyoung. "sure we'll take it! How much was it again?"

"ten bronze"

Wooyoung handed the girl ten bronze and was about to take off, but jongho held him back feeling guilty. I mean come on, the girl probably had her own hardships buying it, and then she got harassed by his hyung.

The younger guy went and handed 5 more bronze. The girl merely looked at his hand confused.

"sorry, he is just immature"

The girl however still remained silent and immobile.

Jongho waited a few seconds and then took the girl's hand and placed the coins there.

"thank you and...Sorry"

The girl looked at the coins and then looked at him. And then she said "I don't need these extra coins, but in return, you both have to go and buy the alcohol for me”

They do it for the girl. The two men are now inside another store, away from the previous. This store is the only other store which sells alcohol here in the port market. But the owner of this shop doesn't know your dad or uncle, so he will not give alcohol to her as she's a girl. So she cleverly asked the two men to go inside and buy it for her.

Wooyoung hands you the additional bottle of rum with a dramatic flourish, a smirk on his face. "Here you go, little one. Consider this our way of helping you out." He smiles at me, while Jongho looks on, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

You look at him giving you two bottles when you asked for one. “I only needed one tho.....”

"We added one more. Consider it a gift from us. Just... don't tell anyone we did this, alright? We'd be in real trouble if anyone knew” Wooyoung said as he put the bottles in your bag properly. You nod at him slightly.

Wooyoung smiles slightly at your nod "Smart girl. And hey... what's your name? I'm wooyoung, that's jongho. Seems like Nassau's been tough on you, hasn't it? If you ever need anything else-"

jongho slightly nudges him to stop and get back to work. He gently pushes Wooyoung aside before he can offer any more unsolicited kindness to the girl. The last thing they need right now is rumors spreading about us befriending locals.

Jongho shoots Wooyoung a warning look before turning his attention back to you "Remember what we said - keep quiet about this. And stay out of trouble, yeah? Nassau's not safe for little ones like you-" he catches himself realizing how condescending that sounded "-Like-”

“Little ones?” You were offended. You hated when someone called you little. It triggered you so much. You family calling you ‘kid’, ‘child’ was enough, you don't need these two weirdos calling you little.

He sighs, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly "You know what I mean. Young. Innocent. Uninvolved in pirate life. Just... be careful, alright? We don't want anything happening to anyone”

You wanted to ask why they were so interested in pirate life but they were already turning back.

As Wooyoung and him walk away, jongho can't shake the feeling that he has made things awkward between them and the girl. He glances back over his shoulder, noticing her standing there, holding the extra bottle of rum like a precious treasure. "Woo, did you see that?”

Wooyoung follows his gaze, a thoughtful expression on his face "Aye, I did. She's a tough one, ain't she? For a little thing, she's got guts." He pauses, then adds in a lower tone

"And she's got a way of getting under your skin, too. Mark my words, Jongho - that girl's going to cause us trouble one day." He chuckles to himself, but there's a hint of seriousness beneath his words.

"Let's just hope it's the good kind of trouble.”

Back in the ship, the surgeon, San runs up to them, asking them what took them so long. Woo replied "we had to fight a little girl for the last bottle of rum”. San raises a concerned eyebrow.

“In what world do ‘little girl' and ‘rum’ co-operate in one sentence? That sounds highly inappropriate”

Jongho sighs and shakes his head disapprovingly at Wooyoung's exaggeration. "Don't go spreading tales now. We weren't fighting anyone." He glances at San with weary eyes. "Just... ran into a stubborn lady on an errand.”

San raises an eyebrow skeptically, but his lips twitch in amusement. "'Stubborn lady,' huh? Sounds like someone's been distracted by pretty eyes and a cute face." He teasingly pokes Jongho in the ribs.

Wooyoung covered his mouth with his hands dramatically and replied "no wonder he was not cold but gentle towards the girl. I knew you had it in you!”

Jongho rolls his eyes, trying to maintain his composure despite San's teasing. "Shut it, San. It's not like that. We just didn't want any trouble, that's all." He shoots Wooyoung a warning look, silently telling him to keep his mouth shut.

But it was true, he felt that those eyes held sadness. He has seen war, he has been in dilemmas and has fought with his inner urges. He knows what loneliness looks like. and he saw that in those girl's dull eyes. He stands on the deck watching the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues, but he can't help but replay the encounter with the girl in his mind. The ache in her eyes, the defiance in her stance - it echoes the battles he's fought within himself.

He remembers the way the girl stood her ground, refusing to back down even when faced with two grown pirates.

As the captain, Hongjoong managed more than just his crew; he also oversaw a network of loan sharks. These were the people he trusted with his money, providing them the means to distribute loans in exchange for a share of the profits. Now, it was time to settle. A meeting with the loan sharks of Nassau was pending, and Hongjoong intended to reclaim what was rightfully his.

Rather than meeting on neutral ground, Hongjoong and Seonghwa decided to summon the loan sharks to their ship. It was a calculated move, one that ensured the meeting would take place on their terms and under their control. (Hot men)

The captain’s quarters were cold and dark, the flickering lantern casting shadows across Hongjoong’s features. Seonghwa stood by the door, arms crossed and expression hard, his presence as commanding as the captain’s. The loan sharks shifted uneasily before them, knowing this was not a meeting to be taken lightly.

The lead shark hesitated before speaking, his voice shaking slightly. “Captain, there’s been… a complication.”

Hongjoong leaned forward, his eyes cold “A complication?” he repeated, his voice low and dangerous. “Explain.”

“A man we loaned money to—he fled,” the shark stammered. “Disappeared without paying a single coin. He left behind his wife and daughter in Nassau.”

Hongjoong’s jaw tightened, his fingers curling into a fist on the table. “And you let him run?”

“We didn’t know he would,” the shark blurted out, his words tumbling over each other. “He seemed reliable, Captain. A merchant with steady work. But one day, he was gone, just like that.”

“And the family?” Seonghwa cut in, his tone sharp and unforgiving.

“They’re still in Nassau,” the shark admitted. “The wife claims she doesn’t know where he went, and they’ve got nothing left. No way to repay the debt.”

Hongjoong’s gaze darkened. “You mean to tell me you came here with excuses, no money, and no solutions?”

The shark shrank back, sweat glistening on his forehead. “Captain, we—we thought we could pressure the wife. Maybe—” He hesitated, but Hongjoong’s glare pushed him to continue. “Maybe take their belongings or… use them to draw him out.”

The room fell silent. Seonghwa stepped forward, his voice like steel. “Use them?” he echoed, his lips curling into a cold smirk knowing what his captain will suggest next, “You’re suggesting we drag a woman and her child into this mess because you couldn’t do your job?”

The shark flinched, his voice barely a whisper. “It was just an idea.”

Hongjoong stood, the sudden movement making the shark jump. He leaned across the table, his voice venomous. “Ideas like that will get you killed. You don’t lay a hand on them unless I give the order. Do you understand me?”

The shark nodded frantically, his face pale. “Y-Yes, Captain.”

“But you will go back,” Hongjoong continued, his tone playful but colder now. “You will visit the wife, and you will remind her that the debt doesn’t disappear just because her husband ran. Make sure she understands this is her last chance to cooperate. If she knows where he is, she had better start talking.”

“And if she doesn’t?” the shark asked hesitantly.

Seonghwa’s smirk widened, but his eyes remained icy. “Then you make it clear what happens when people cross Captain Hongjoong. Let her know the weight of the debt will fall heavier if her husband doesn’t show his face soon.”

Hongjoong straightened, his eyes burning into the shark’s. “You don’t come back empty-handed again. Bring me the man, or bring me something of equal value. Do I make myself clear?”

The sharks nodded in unison, fear etched into their faces.

“Good,” Hongjoong said curtly. “Now get out of my sight.”

As the door slammed shut behind them, Seonghwa glanced at the captain. “You think the wife knows something?"

“If she does, fear will make her speak,” Hongjoong replied coldly. “And if she doesn’t, it’ll push the coward into the open. Either way, we get what we’re owed.”

He thinks for a second and then says “ you know what, I don't trust these parasites. Send a mule after them, give me every detail of what they do from now on”

The shark’s anger simmered as he stormed through the winding streets of Nassau. Hongjoong’s threats still echoed in his ears, and his humiliation burned deep. To him, the blame lay squarely with the woman and her child.

“They’ve made fools of us,” growled the shark, his fists clenched. “It’s her fault the captain’s breathing down our necks. If we can’t touch them, we’ll make sure she understands what it means to cross us.”

When he reached the small house with two of his acquaintances, they found it quiet and dimly lit. The lead shark pounded on the door with enough force to make the frame rattle. After a moment, the door creaked open, revealing the wife. Her face paled when she saw the sharks, but she held her ground.

“What do you want now?” she asked, her voice strong but trembling.

The lead shark sneered, pushing the door open wider. “Your lies have caused us enough trouble. We’re done playing games.”

She took a step back, clutching the edge of the door. “I’ve told you everything I know. My husband is gone. I can’t give you what I don’t have.”

Another shark, a burly man with a cruel glint in his eye, stepped forward. “Your daughter—where is she?”

“She’s not here,” the wife said quickly, fear flashing across her face. “She’s out.”

The lead shark smirked, leaning closer. “Good. That makes this easier.”

Before the wife could react, the sharks forced their way inside. She stumbled back, panic flooding her as they loomed over her.

“You’re coming with us,” the lead shark said coldly.

“You can’t do this,” she stammered, her voice breaking. “We’re not hurting you,” the burly shark replied with a twisted grin. “We’re just taking you somewhere else to have a little… conversation.”

Despite her protests, they grabbed her arms and dragged her out of the house, their grip firm but not brutal. She screamed and struggled, but no one was there as they hauled her through the streets and into the shadows of Nassau.

____

You push open the door to your house, expecting the usual comfort of your mother's voice or the warmth of a home filled with the scent of a meal being prepared. But instead, there was silence.

“Mom?” you call out, your voice echoing slightly. You set down the basket of bread and vegetables, but there’s no answer. The quiet stretches on, oppressive, like something’s wrong.

You move through the house, checking the rooms one by one, but it’s empty. There’s no sign of her. Panic starts to creep into your chest, tightening with each passing moment.

As you were looking, you felt someone cover your mouth in a vise-like grip as you trie to claw at him. His thick mustache curls upwards in a cruel sneer. "And what do we have here? The little birdie come back to her nest?”

You try hard to free yourself.

“You think you can run from us?” he sneered, shoving you forward with enough force to stumble you. “You and your mother have been causing enough trouble, little girl. But don’t worry, we’ll make sure you both learn your place soon enough.”

You kick his knees and manage to break free. Just as you reach for the door handle, a large hand cracks across your face, sending you stumbling down. Pain explodes across your cheek and you fall to the floor, dazed and crying. The man looms over you, his fist raised for another blow. "You little brat!”

"Stop!" The lead shark's voice barks out sharply, staying in the second man's hand mid-air. Through your terrified tears, you see him approaching you, his heavy boots thudding against the wooden floor.

“We don’t need more bruises on this pretty little face yet,” he says, his voice almost… amused. His hand lifts, but instead of striking, he just touches the side of your face, his fingers cold and rough against your skin.

You wince, instinctively trying to pull away, but his grip tightens, holding you in place. “Listen closely, little bird,” he continues, his voice dark and low. “We need you to understand something. Your father’s debt? It’s a problem. And we’re not leaving here until we get our money back.”

Your stomach churns at the mention of your father. You try to keep your voice steady, but it cracks. “I don’t know where he is.”

“Yeah, we know,” he replies with a dry laugh, his grip loosening just a little. “Your father’s a coward. He runs and leaves you two behind to clean up his mess.” He leans down, his face just inches from yours. “But that doesn’t matter. Captain Hongjoong’s been clear. We take what’s ours. And you?” His smirk widens. “You’re gonna help us make that happen.”

His words make your blood run cold. Hongjoong. You’d heard of him—his name was spoken with fear and respect, but never this way. They’re using your family as leverage, a pawn in their game, all because of your father’s debt.

“They need you to make sure your father gets the message,” the lead shark continues, standing back up, pacing slowly around you like a predator. “We can’t hurt you… yet. But we’re going to make sure you’re a reminder. Captain Hongjoong is waiting for results. And if that means bringing you along to make your father see reason, then that’s what we’ll do.”

Hongjoong sat in his quarters, staring at the report he had just received from the mule. His eyes narrowed as the words settled in. The sharks had gone against his direct orders, overstepping their boundaries, and now he had to deal with the consequences. The anger bubbled inside him, a sharp, cold rage that left no room for hesitation.

He stood up, the weight of his frustration pressing on him. He couldn’t allow anyone to defy him, especially not when it came to matters as serious as this. The sharks had been sent to handle the situation, to get back the money they were owed—but they’d taken it too far. Taking the girl and her mother? That wasn’t part of the deal.

Seonghwa, who had been standing nearby, watching his captain closely, didn’t need to ask what was wrong. He’d seen this side of Hongjoong before—when his calm, controlled demeanor slipped, and the storm beneath came to the surface.

“Prepare Jongho and Yunho,” Hongjoong said, his voice low but filled with authority. “I want them to investigate. I want to know exactly what those sharks did, and I want them to fix this. I’ll have no one undermining my orders.”

Seonghwa nodded, turning to leave, but Hongjoong stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.

“Make sure it’s handled quietly,” Hongjoong added, his gaze steely. “We don’t need any more attention than we already have. And if they’ve done something unforgivable… make sure they know who’s in charge.”

Jongho, the Battle Master, was known for his strength and discipline. He’d follow orders without hesitation, but it was his ability to keep a level head in intense situations that Hongjoong trusted most. Yunho, the Master Gunner, had a sharp eye for details and a quick wit. Together with a few loyal crew members, they’d get to the bottom of this—and if the sharks had crossed a line, they’d deal with it swiftly.

Jongho and Yunho stood by the edge of the ship, the salty breeze tugging at their hair as they discussed their next move.

Yunho crossed his arms, leaning against the railing. “So, we’re going to investigate what those sharks did… and if they’ve really messed up, we’re supposed to clean up their mess?” He raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Jongho, standing beside him, shook his head with a chuckle. “Seems like it. I don’t think Captain Hongjoong’s happy that they went rogue. Taking the girl and her mother? That’s a whole new level of stupid.” He sighed, glancing out at the horizon.

“I mean, we’re talking about a bunch of thugs who can’t follow orders. What’s next? Are they going to steal the moon?”

Yunho snorted. “If they tried, I’d pay good money to see it. But seriously, jongho, this is a mess. We’ve got to figure out how to handle this without making it worse. The last thing we need is a full-blown war with the sharks because they couldn’t keep their hands to themselves.”

Jongho chuckled darkly. “Yeah, because Hongjoong’s ‘fixing problems quietly’ approach works out so well, right?” He paused. “Let’s just hope these sharks haven’t completely pissed him off. I don’t think even we could smooth things over if he’s really that angry.”

He then grinned. “I’ll make sure to bring some extra bandages, just in case.”

Yunho shot him a sideways glance. “What, you think we’re going to knock some sense into them with our fists?”

“Wouldn’t be the first time,” Jongho replied, giving him a smile. “Though, I prefer it when the problem just gets solved with a good ol' conversation. You know, like ‘Hey, don’t take the girl, or I’ll break your legs.’”

Yunho let out a dry laugh. “Sounds like a great ‘conversation’ to me.”

He then smirked at jongho and said, “But you know, I’m always ready to put some holes in bastards. Let’s get to work.” (See what I did there? ⁠ ͡⁠°⁠ ͜⁠ʖ⁠ ͡⁠° )

The air was thick with tension as Jongho and Yunho made their way to the den. They had gathered all the intel they needed and were now ready to end this. The sharp tang of saltwater in the air mixed with the musty, oppressive smell of the building, and Jongho’s grip tightened around the hilt of his sword.

“You ready?” Yunho asked, his voice low, scanning the area.

“Yeah, let’s go,” Jongho replied, his tone steadier than he felt. They moved quickly, slipping through the shadows toward the back entrance of the den. The door creaked open under Jongho’s steady push, and they silently entered.

Jongho and Yunho moved like shadows, circling around the room, eyes scanning for the girl. The moment their eyes met, Jongho felt his heart stop. There she was—tied to a chair, her head lowered. Her breathing was shallow, and her hands were bound tight, but she was alive. She looked up at him, her eyes widening.

Jongho felt his chest tighten. He was shocked. Not because this was her. The same girl he had seen in the market, and now here she was, in the middle of this chaos, helpless. But because he still remembered her vividly. He has never remembered anyone's face other than ill intent. This made his heart do something he didn't like.

He was about to rush forward when Yunho grabbed his arm. “Stay focused,” Yunho muttered, his eyes scanning the sharks. “We’ll get her, but we need to take them down first.”

Jongho nodded, his heart racing. He knew Yunho was right—they couldn’t let their guard down. The sharks were too dangerous, and they had to be neutralized quickly.

In one fluid motion, Yunho drew his gun and fired, sending one of the sharks crashing to the ground. The noise startled the rest of the men, and chaos erupted. Jongho lunged forward, his sword cutting through the air with precision. Each swing was met with resistance, but he wasn’t slowing down.

The fight was quick but brutal, the room filled with the sounds of swords clashing and bodies hitting the ground. Jongho’s eyes searched the girl, and as soon as the last shark was down, he rushed to her side.

“Hold on,” he said, his voice softer now, as he cut through her ropes. She winced slightly as he freed her wrists, but she didn’t say a word—her eyes were locked on him, full of both fear and relief.

“You’re safe now,” Jongho said, his heart pounding as he helped her to her feet. But as he looked down at her, his heart skipped a beat. Her face was streaked with dried tears and blood, she had a busted lip and a bloodied injury on the side of her head. He realized then that this wasn’t just about the mission anymore. There was something about her that tugged at him, something deeper than just a rescue.

She looked up at him, her voice barely a whisper. “Who are you?”

Jongho smiled softly, trying to mask the sudden rush of emotions flooding through him. “Jongho. Battle Master on Captain Hongjoong’s ship.”

Her eyes flickered with recognition. “You… you were at the market.” She hesitated, her voice uncertain. “You… you’re a pirate? Of the Halazia”

Jongho nodded, his heart tightening. “We’re here to get you out of this mess. But right now, we need to move fast.”

She looked around, “But my mom-”

“Yunho will take care of that”

Before she could respond, they heard footsteps approaching. Yunho’s voice was low and urgent. “Jongho, we’ve got to go, now!”

Jongho took her hand gently, pulling her toward the door. As they ran, he couldn’t shake the feeling that his heart had just made a decision he wasn’t sure he was ready for. He had come here to do a job, to rescue her and get out. But somewhere in that chaotic moment, he realized he wanted to protect her.

The door slammed open, and they ran out into the night. Behind them, the sounds of pursuit echoed, but Jongho didn’t care. He would protect her. No matter what it took.

You settled back into the familiarity of home, the creaking of the old wooden floors and the comforting hum of the market outside grounding you after the chaos of recent events. Life was quiet again, though a bit lonelier now. Your mother busied herself with building a shop, leaving you to wander between chores and stolen moments of peace.

Life aboard the ship was as chaotic as ever, but lately, the crew had found a new source of amusement—or annoyance, depending on who you asked.

“Jongho, will you sit down already?” Seonghwa groaned, throwing an exasperated glance at the younger man pacing the deck.

Jongho ignored him, his brow furrowed in thought as he muttered to himself. “I haven’t checked in on her in over a week. What if something’s happened? What if someone’s bothering her again?”

“Again with the girl,” Yunho drawled, leaning lazily against a barrel. “You’ve mentioned her three times today already. You’re worse than Hongjoong’s parrot.”

“Worse than his parrot?” Yeosang, the navigator, asked as he descended from the helm, a sly grin spreading across his face. “Now that’s saying something. I didn’t think anyone could top its constant squawking.”

“Maybe the parrot’s jealous,” Mingi, the boatswain, chimed in as he carried a coil of rope over his shoulder. He dropped it near the mast and turned to Jongho, his grin matching Yeosang’s. “Sounds like it’s got competition for Jongho’s attention.”

Hongjoong, seated at a small table nearby, raised an eyebrow but said nothing. He sipped his drink with a smirk, clearly enjoying the rare sight of Jongho being the center of everyone’s teasing. "I didn't even take my money from her for you"

"captain aren't you like one of the richest people in the 7 seas?" Someone grumbled.

“It’s not like that,” Jongho said firmly, shooting Yunho a glare before turning to Yeosang and Mingi. “She’s been through enough already. Someone has to make sure she’s alright.”

“Someone?” San chimed in, his grin wide. “Or you?”

“Let’s be real,” Wooyoung added with a dramatic sigh. “You don’t just want to make sure she’s safe. You’re attached. Admit it.”

“Sounds like attachment to me,” Yeosang agreed, leaning against the railing with an amused expression. “You’re practically obsessing.”

“I wouldn’t call it obsession,” Mingi said, tilting his head thoughtfully. “It’s more like…” He paused for dramatic effect, his grin widening.

“Infatuation.”

Jongho stopped pacing long enough to shoot them all a sharp look. “I’m doing my job. Protecting her is my responsibility.”

“Protecting her,” Seonghwa said, drawing out the words mockingly. “Or is it something more?”

“I don’t love her,” Jongho snapped, his tone final.

The crew burst into laughter, the sound echoing across the deck. Even Hongjoong let out a low chuckle, finally setting his drink down.

“If you don’t love her,” the captain said, leaning back in his chair, “then stop pacing around like a lovesick puppy. You’re throwing off the entire crew."

“Yeah,” Yunho added with a grin. “Even the parrot’s giving you side-eye at this point.”

Jongho opened his mouth to retort but found no words that would convince them otherwise. Instead, he huffed and crossed his arms, retreating to his post with an annoyed scowl.

Yeosang exchanged a glance with Mingi before smirking. “He’ll realize it eventually,” he said quietly.

“Or we’ll keep reminding him until he does,” Mingi replied with a chuckle.

As the laughter died down and the crew returned to their tasks. Jongho didn’t love her, he told himself. He was just… concerned. That was all. Yes, that's it.

It had been weeks since you’d last seen Jongho. You told yourself you shouldn’t expect him, that he had his own life aboard the ship, filled with duties and battles you couldn’t begin to imagine.

But some small, stubborn part of you always found your eyes drifting to the road outside, hoping to catch sight of him.

And then, one evening, as the sky blushed with the soft hues of sunset, you heard it—the measured, confident sound of boots against gravel. Your heart leapt before you could stop it, and you quickly wiped your hands on your apron, glancing toward the door just as his familiar silhouette appeared.

“Jongho,” you said, trying to sound calm though you could feel your pulse racing.

He nodded, stepping into the doorway. His eyes swept the room, taking in the tidy shelves and the faint scent of freshly baked bread. “Everything alright?” he asked, his tone steady, the same question he always asked.

You smiled, brushing a stray lock of hair from your face. “It is now. Come in.”

He hesitated for a moment, as if weighing the invitation, but eventually stepped inside, his presence filling the small space effortlessly.

You poured him tea, the silence between you familiar and strangely comforting. He didn’t say much—he rarely did—but his quiet presence was enough. You found yourself telling him about the shop, how business had picked up again, and how you’d repaired the shutters just last week. He listened intently, his gaze steady, his attention making you feel like your words mattered.

When he finally rose to leave, you felt a pang of disappointment, though you didn’t say anything. He paused at the door, glancing back at you.

“I’ll check in again,” he said simply.

You nodded, your smile soft but genuine. “I’ll be here.”

And then he was gone, the sound of his boots fading into the evening air. You stood there for a moment, staring at the empty doorway, your heart inexplicably lighter.

You didn’t know why he kept coming back, and maybe he didn’t either. But you found yourself looking forward to his visits, to the way he made you feel seen and safe in a way no one else ever had. For now, that was enough.

The air outside buzzed with excitement, the faint sound of music and chatter from the central town festival reaching your small home. You stood at the window, peeking out at the vibrant colors of the decorations that dotted the streets beyond your view.

The door creaked open, and you turned to see Jongho stepping inside. His usual calm demeanor was in place, though his eyes flicked over you briefly, taking in the faint spark of longing in your expression.

“There’s a festival in town,” he said, his voice low but steady.

You nodded, brushing your hands on your skirt. “I know. I’ve always wanted to go, but…”

Your voice trailed off, and you glanced toward your mother, who stood nearby, watching the two of you.

Jongho followed your gaze, his brow furrowing slightly. “Why not?”

Your mother sighed, folding her arms. “She’s young, and festivals can be crowded, chaotic… dangerous. I can’t let her go alone.”

“I’ll take her,” Jongho said simply, as though the decision had already been made.

“You'd do that? Take me there?”

“Why not?”

Both you and your mother looked at him, surprised. He met your mother’s gaze evenly, his tone firm. “I’ll make sure she’s safe.”

Your mother hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line. Finally, she nodded, though she still seemed unsure. “Alright. But don’t let her out of your sight.”

A rush of excitement and nervousness bubbled up inside you as you grabbed your shawl. “Thank you, Jongho,” you said softly, your smile warm and genuine.

---

The town was alive with color and energy. Lanterns hung from every building, their soft glow casting a warm light over the cobblestone streets. Stalls lined the roads, selling everything from sweets to trinkets, and performers entertained small crowds with music and dancing.

Jongho stayed close to you, his presence a steady anchor in the lively chaos. His hand hovered near your back, guiding you through the crowd without a word.

“Where should we go first?” you asked, looking up at him.

He glanced around, his eyes scanning the stalls and performers. “Wherever you want.”

“I don't know, you choose”

“We can do whatever you want”

You look down a bit and think. You'd never been given choices. They were always made for you. You always felt pressure whenever someone said to choose something and at the end you just keep saying ‘whatever you want’.

You grinned, feeling a rare sense of freedom. Tugging gently on his sleeve, you led him to a stall selling candied apples. He didn’t protest when you bought one for yourself and insisted he try one too, but he informed you that he can't have sweet things.

You went around stall from stall, that's when you spotted a beautiful earring in one of the stalls. It was completely your style and pretty. You kept looking at it, that's when jongho noticed you looking somewhere.

“Where are you looking at?”

You look back at him and smile, “nothing.” Maybe I can ask mom to buy these next year, if we can come.

As the night went on, you wandered from one attraction to another. You laughed at a juggler’s clumsy tricks, marveled at the intricate designs of hand-painted fans, and even managed to coax Jongho into trying his hand at a ring toss game.

He didn’t win, but the sight of him concentrating so intently on the simple game made you laugh until your sides hurt.

“You’re enjoying this too much,” he muttered, though the corners of his mouth twitched upward in a faint smile.

“Maybe,” you teased, feeling more at ease with him than ever before.

When the night sky filled with stars, the two of you found a quieter spot on the edge of the festival grounds. You sat on a low stone wall, watching the festival bustling with people even though it was pretty late at night.

“Thank you,” you said after a while, your voice soft.

Jongho turned to look at you, his expression unreadable in the dim light. “For what?”

“For taking me here,” you said, meeting his gaze. “Looking out for me. You didn’t have to, but… it means a lot.”

He was silent for a moment, his eyes studying you. Then he nodded, his voice quiet but firm. “It’s no trouble.”

Back at the ship, Jongho returned to the bustling crew. The festival had left him with a strange feeling, one he couldn’t quite place.

“You’re back,” Yunho said, leaning against the mast with a grin. “How was your little outing?”

“It was fine,” Jongho replied curtly, brushing past him.

“Fine?” Wooyoung piped up, sidling up with a mischievous glint in his eye. “That’s all we get? Come on, did she hold your hand? Laugh at your jokes? Look at you like you’re her hero?”

“Wooyoung,” Jongho warned, his tone low.

But the teasing only grew as San joined in. “Admit it, you enjoyed yourself.”

Jongho shot them a glare that silenced most of their laughter, though their knowing looks didn’t fade.

He didn’t understand the pull he felt toward you, but one thing was clear: he would keep protecting you, no matter what. Anything beyond that… he wasn’t ready to think about it

The next time Jongho visited your home, it was early evening. The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting golden light over the small house. You were outside, tending to the small garden by the porch, when you noticed him approaching.

“Jongho,” you greeted, brushing dirt off your hands as you stood. His posture was straighter, and his hands were tucked behind his back.

“Hello,” he said, his voice calm as always, though his eyes briefly flickered down to the dirt smudged on your cheek.

“What brings you here?” you asked, tilting your head curiously.

He hesitated, glancing over his shoulder as though ensuring no one was watching. Then, clearing his throat, he brought his hand forward to reveal a small cloth-wrapped bundle.

You blinked at it, unsure of what it could be. “What’s this?”

“Just take it,” he said, his tone gruff, though he avoided your gaze as he extended the bundle toward you.

With a curious smile, you untied the cloth, your breath catching as the fabric fell away to reveal a pair of delicate earrings. They were simple yet elegant, their small gemstone pendants glinting in the light.

Your heart skipped a beat as you recognized them. “These… these were at the festival,” you murmured, tracing a finger over the smooth surface of one gem. “I saw them, but—”.

“You were staring at them right? That day?,” Jongho interrupted, his voice firm but quieter now. “Figured you might like them.”

Clutching the earrings tightly in your hand. “You didn’t have to do this.”

“I know,” he replied simply, meeting your gaze for a moment before looking away, almost as if he were embarrassed. “It’s nothing.”

“It’s not nothing,” you insisted, a soft laugh escaping you. “This is… this is the nicest thing anyone’s done for me.”

Jongho shifted awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Don’t make a big deal out of it. Just thought you’d like them.”

Your fingers gently traced over the smooth gemstones on the earrings, the delicate sparkle catching the fading sunlight. “But…” you hesitated, looking up at Jongho, who stood there with his usual calm demeanor. “Aren’t these expensive?”

He tilted his head slightly, an almost amused glint in his eyes. “I’m rich,” he said matter-of-factly, as if that explained everything.

You blinked at him, surprised by his bluntness. “You’re what?”

“Rich,” he repeated, his tone steady, though there was the faintest hint of humor tugging at the corner of his lips. “Why does that surprise you? I'm part of the richest pirates in the seven seas. Do you not know?”

“I mean… you’re on a ship all the time,” you said, flustered. “You don’t exactly seem—”

“Seem what?” he cut in, raising an eyebrow.

“Like someone who’d buy earrings for a girl,” you finished, your cheeks warming.

Jongho crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. “I didn’t buy them for just anyone. I bought them for you. That’s different.”

Your heart skipped a beat at his words, and you clutched the earrings tighter, suddenly unsure of what to say.

“I told you, it’s no big deal,” he continued, his tone softening slightly. “You liked them, so I got them. Don’t think too much about it.”

You smiled despite yourself, feeling a strange mix of gratitude and something else you couldn’t quite name. “Thank you,” you said again, your voice quieter this time.

He nodded, the faintest trace of a smile on his face. “You’re welcome.”

As he turned to leave, you couldn’t help but call after him, “So, how rich are we talking?”

Jongho paused, glancing over his shoulder with a smirk that was so subtle you almost missed it. “Rich enough to buy the earrings and not think twice about it.”

You laughed softly as he walked away, your heart lighter than it had been in a long time.

Unknown to you, the poor boy had gone through the torment of his 7 brothers, who won't leave him alone. They teased him so much about the earrings that he almost almost threw one of them overboard.

The crew was always quick to notice anything out of the ordinary, and had clearly picked up on Jongho’s latest visit to your home.

“So,” Yunho started, leaning casually against a barrel as Jongho walked across the deck, “we heard about the earrings.”

Jongho paused, his jaw tightening slightly. “What about them?”

“Oh, nothing,” Wooyoung piped up, barely containing his grin. “Just that our stoic Jongho has a soft spot for a certain someone.”

San joined in, throwing an arm dramatically around Jongho’s shoulder. “You know, if you’re going to buy her gifts, why not go all out? Maybe a necklace next time? Or a whole jewelry set?”

Jongho shrugged off San’s arm, his expression unimpressed. “It was just a pair of earrings. Don’t make it a big deal.”

“A pair of earrings,” Seonghwa repeated, feigning shock. “Do you know how much effort that is? Choosing the right ones, paying for them…”

Yeosang, who rarely joined in on the teasing, leaned against the railing with a faint smirk. “I’m just curious how long it took you to pick them out. Did you stare at the stall for an hour?”

“He probably scared the vendor,” Mingi added, his laughter booming across the deck. “Standing there, glaring at the earrings until they wrapped them up for him.”

Even Hongjoong, who had been silently observing from his chair, chimed in with a sly smile. “So, Jongho, how does it feel to be the romantic of the group? Should we start calling you the ship’s Cupid?”

Jongho’s patience was clearly thinning, but his expression remained steady. “I’m not romantic. I just thought she’d like them. That’s it.”

Wooyoung clutched his chest dramatically, staggering back. “He thought she’d like them! Oh, it’s worse than we thought—he’s thinking about her!”

“That’s enough,” Jongho said firmly, though the slight pink tinge to his ears betrayed his frustration.

Yunho, ever the instigator, leaned closer with a mischievous grin. “You know, Jongho, if you keep this up, we might need to start a fund for all the gifts you’ll be buying her.”

Jongho shot him a sharp look. “You’re all lucky I don’t throw you overboard.”

The crew erupted into laughter, thoroughly enjoying themselves at Jongho’s expense. Despite his annoyance, Jongho couldn’t fully suppress a faint smile as he turned and walked away.

As the teasing continued behind him, one thought lingered in his mind: he didn’t regret buying the earrings, no matter how much they made fun of him. If it made you smile, it was worth every ounce of ridicule.

The laughter and teasing aboard the ship gradually subsided as the crew prepared for their next voyage. Supplies were loaded, sails checked, and the familiar hum of activity filled the air. But this time, there was an unspoken heaviness among them. They were leaving the port—and there was no telling when they’d return.

Jongho stood near the railing, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the town lay, now bathed in the golden light of the setting sun.

“She’ll be fine, you know,” Yunho said, walking up beside him and leaning against the railing.

Jongho didn’t respond immediately. His grip on the wood tightened slightly, his eyes scanning the distant rooftops as though he could catch a glimpse of you from here. “I know,” he said finally, though his tone lacked conviction.

Yunho chuckled softly. “You’re terrible at lying, Jongho. Especially to yourself.”

“Leave him be,” Seonghwa said, passing by with a small smirk. “He’s just sulking because he can’t buy her more earrings from the next town.”

“Maybe we should’ve taken her with us,” Wooyoung suggested with a mischievous grin, appearing on Jongho’s other side. “At least then, Jongho wouldn’t be moping around like a kicked puppy.”

Jongho shot him a warning look. “She’s safer at home.”

“True,” Mingi chimed in as he approached, slapping Jongho on the back. “But are you safer without her?”

The others burst into laughter, their voices carrying across the deck, but Jongho remained silent. His thoughts were already elsewhere—back at the small house where he’d left you.

Now, as the ship’s anchor was lifted and the sails unfurled, Jongho couldn’t help but glance back one last time. The town grew smaller in the distance, and with it, the little piece of peace he’d found there.

Everything had to come to an end, he reminded himself, but this end felt heavier than he’d expected. Even as the ship carried him further from the port, his thoughts lingered on you—on your quiet strength, your laughter, and the way your smile had made the world seem just a little brighter.

For now, all he could do was focus on the journey ahead and trust that fate would bring him back to you someday.

Their journey had been long and unpredictable, filled with danger, discovery, and the relentless pursuit of fortune. From navigating treacherous waters to encountering rival ships, every day aboard the ship demanded resilience and wit.

They'd charted unknown territories, bartered with distant towns, and clashed with pirates in battles that tested their mettle. The crew thrived on the adrenaline of their adventures, though the weight of uncertainty often hung over them.

For Jongho, the journey was a blur of responsibility and restlessness, his thoughts occasionally drifting to the little house by the port. Each victory and challenge brought them closer to returning, though they never knew when that day would come.

Now, after years away, the ship had finally docked, and their travels were behind them—for now.

The town felt both familiar and distant as Jongho and the crew disembarked after years at sea. Jongho’s eyes instinctively searched the streets, scanning for any sign of you. The house came into view quickly, and his steps faltered. It looked well-kept, the garden vibrant and alive, and the faint scent of baked goods wafted from an open window.

As he approached the door, he noticed a subtle change—a sign hung near the entrance: “Homemade Goods & Repairs.” His brow furrowed, curiosity rising.

He knocked lightly, and a familiar voice called out, “One moment!”

When you opened the door, your expression lit up instantly. “Jongho!”

You were different, older somehow, with a confidence in the way you stood. Your hands were dusted with flour, and there was a smudge of it on your cheek. But your smile was as bright as ever, and seeing it eased something in Jongho’s chest.

“You’re back,” you said warmly, stepping aside to let him in. “I wasn’t sure I’d see you again.”

“I didn’t expect to see this,” Jongho replied, motioning toward the bustling shop area. Shelves lined with jars of jams and pastries occupied one side, while the other side displayed tools and items neatly organized for repairs.

You chuckled, wiping your hands on your apron. “After my mom passed, I needed something to keep me busy. The shop helps, and it keeps me connected to the town. I do alright.”

Jongho nodded, glancing around. The place had a sense of order and life he hadn’t expected. “You’re running this by yourself?”

“For now,” you replied, smiling proudly. “The town’s been good to me. They keep me busy enough, and I like it that way.”

Jongho’s gaze lingered on you, and he couldn’t help but notice the resilience in your tone. You weren’t the fragile girl he’d left behind. You’d grown, thrived even, despite everything.

“You’ve done well,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with admiration.

Still, his heart felt heavy as he considered what lay ahead. The ship wouldn’t stay docked for long; it never did. His life was the sea—a life of unpredictability, danger, and adventure. But standing here, surrounded by the quiet hum of your shop, he wondered if there was room for something else.

“You’ve made a good life for yourself,” he said finally, his voice quieter than usual.

You nodded, leaning against the counter. “I have. It’s not always easy, but it’s mine.”

A silence stretched between you, heavy with unspoken questions. He broke it first.

“I can’t ask you to leave this behind,” he said. “You’ve worked too hard to build it.”

Your brow furrowed as you studied him. “And you’re not ready to leave the sea.”

He shook his head. “That's all I’ve ever known.”

You stepped closer, your hand brushing against his arm. “Then don’t. You don’t have to choose, Jongho.”

He looked at you, confusion flickering across his face.

“You come and go,” you continued. “The sea is part of who you are, and I wouldn’t want to take that from you. But when you’re here, this can be home. If you want it to be.”

Home. The word hung in the air between you, and for the first time, Jongho felt a sense of calm he hadn’t known he was searching for.

“I don’t deserve that,” he said, his voice barely audible.

You smiled softly. “Maybe not. But it’s here anyway.”

Jongho was silent for a long moment, the weight of your words settling over him. He wanted to say more but wasn’t sure how. He wanted to ask you to come with him, to leave everything behind and sail with him, but he knew it wouldn’t be fair. You had your life here, and he couldn’t ask you to give that up for the uncertain life he led.

But then, without thinking, the words left his mouth, surprising even himself.

“Marry me.”

You froze, your eyes wide with shock. Jongho instantly regretted speaking before he’d thought it through. But he couldn’t take the words back now, and he didn’t want to.

He cleared his throat, trying to explain. “I know it sounds sudden, and I’m not asking you to give up your life here, but…” His voice faltered. “I don’t want to keep going back and forth, not anymore. I want you to be with me, always. Even when I’m out there on the sea. We could make it work, I know we could.”

You stared at him, your heart beating fast as you processed his words. The shock began to wear off, replaced by something warm and steady. Jongho had always been a protector to you, but hearing him say he wanted more—that he wanted to be with you no matter what—stirred something deep inside you.

You took a deep breath, the weight of his question settling on your chest. “Are you sure?” you asked quietly. “This isn’t just about wanting me close when it’s convenient for you?”

He shook his head, stepping closer. “No. I want all of you. Even when I’m gone. You’re the only thing that’s ever made me think about staying.”

You met his eyes, feeling the sincerity in his words. There was no doubt in your mind. “I’m not going anywhere,” you said, your voice steady now. “If you’re asking me to be part of your life, even with all the uncertainty, then yes. I’ll marry you.”

A smile spread across Jongho’s face, relief flooding through him. He couldn’t remember the last time he felt this certain about anything. Without another word, he pulled you into a tight embrace, the promise of the future settling between you like a quiet promise.

The sea might still call to him, but now, he had something far more important to come back to. And this time, it wouldn’t be just a visit—it would be home.

[revelboo]

You really write really good stories ✨👌.although I'm already quite addicted to it lol, I literally go offline for 3 days for work and when I come back to read in 10 minutes I've already read everything🫠. btw the "everything will be okay" plot is really good and I'm WILD with Earthspark stories (it became my favorite series and there are almost no Earthspark stories🤧)

I’m just having fun writing my nonsense

Give Up/Give In Pt 13

TF Earthspark Megatron x Reader

• They’re trying to help. He knows it. Appreciates it. Even if he wants to growl. Just wanting a peaceful meal with you, a chance to sit and talk alone. Not realizing Dorothy and the kids would try to help. Alex had cooked for him, and Hashtag and Twitch had found an enormous plaid blanket to spread out under the tree in the yard. Jawbreaker and the others had found old holiday decorations and bit of broken glass and strung them up in the branches so the sun dapples the grass and blanket in a kaleidoscope of blues and greens. As much as he appreciates the effort, none of it was by his hand for you and it bothers him. You, though? You’re smiling as you tip your head back to look at the tree. “Is this alright?” He asks.

• “It’s gorgeous.” And it is, the kids working to help Megatron spreading warm through you. Even if you’d heard Hashtag whisper something about ‘Team Romance’ to Twitch. The two seeming to not understand that you’re a human and Megatron is, well, Megatron. Completely incompatible, but it is sweet. “I love it.” Easing down on the blanket, you watch Megatron lower himself across from you, still towering over you as he leans his arms on his knees.

• Nudging the tiny basket of food closer to you, he reaches for an energon cube while you make a plate. Wishes he could mass shift, but it’s too risky with Starscream and the other Seekers at large. Can’t leave himself and you vulnerable. “What else do you love?” Your little face tips up, expressive face surprised by the question and he likes that you’re so easy to read, that he doesn’t have to wonder about your motives. “Tell me,” he adds gently, trying to not demand, but he wants to know everything about you. Who you are. What you like.

• Shoulders lifting in a shrug, you push your food around on your plate. “Not much to tell. Honestly, I just work and go home. Pretty boring.” And sad now that you think about it. No real personal life. A job you don’t care for, but can’t quit because there’s so few prospects in a small town. Too scared to try for a bigger city, so you’d gotten stuck. Still are.

• Venting, he reaches to tip your chin up. Making you meet his optics. “What do you like to do? What dreams keep you going?” He asks, voice taking on a wistful edge. Because dreams seldom go the way planned. His dreams of a better world, of freedom had led to a war that had ravaged his home. Reaching up to touch his servo, you offer him a smile.

• “I played violin as a kid. Wasn’t great at it, but I had fun,” you admit, eyes closing. “I used to dream I could be great. That I could play and people would care.” It sounds so silly. You hadn’t wanted to be rich or famous, just wanted to play well enough the music would make people feel something real. “I doubt i even remember how to play anymore.” Laughing softly, you gently push his servo away.

• “You’ll play for me.” It’s not a request, it’s a demand, but you still smile for him. Wants to hear you play, to lose yourself in something that makes you happy. Desperately wants to see you happy and relaxed. Spark warming when you tell him okay. And you take turns sharing things. He sketches out the war and his mistakes in the broadest strokes he can, not wanting you to know just how awful he is. But needing you to know that side of him is there. Listens to you talk about your family in return, offering him little glimpses of who you are. It’s dark by the time he remembers his deal. That he’d promised to take you home. That home isn’t with him.

• “Are you ready to go?” Heart speeding as he plants a palm on the ground and stands, you want to say no. To ask to stay. To take up even more of his time, all of it he’ll allow. You like talking to him, listening to that rumbling voice. Like the warmth of his big servos when he touches your arm or cheek. Like him. But know this can’t go anywhere, that eventually he’ll get tired of your clinging, so you make yourself nod and smile like you’re okay when you’re not.

• Transforming and dropping his ramp, he can feel you walk inside his alt mode. A little hand brushing a wall as you look around his cargo hold and he feels when you hesitate. Making him remember that he’s not had time to clean up, that your blood is still there. “It’s alright,” he says softly, closing his ramp. “You’re safe here.” And you move through him lingering just inside the cockpit while he waits on you to find somewhere to settle. “Sit anywhere.”

• “Sorry,” you murmur, slipping into one of the pilot seats. Because it’s still weird that he’s this giant aircraft now and that you can just walk around inside him. Can he see you or is he just feeling you moving around? Isn’t that weird to him? Sinking into the seat, you look at all the dials and controls and feel a momentary twist of the surreal. Because this is still Megatron. Different, but still him. When the rotors start up, you touch the harness wondering if you need to strap in.

• “You’re shaking, little one.” He can feel you trembling as your little fingers ghost over his harness, touching the yoke when he shifts it. Nervous and wide eyed. “Are you sure this is what you want?” To go home instead of staying with him? Safe where he can watch over you? And your fingers grip his harness. Hates that you’re so frightened right now, because this isn’t a threat he can destroy or attack.

• No. It’s not what you want at all. Frozen, you want to be greedy. To not go back to the real world. To steal a little more time. Listen to him and ask him questions, because what you’ve seen so far doesn’t mesh up with the stories you’ve heard. He’s not a monster, not cruel or vicious. He’s gentler than you’d expected. “I want to stay,” you whisper, the words so soft there’s no way he can hear them over the sound of his rotors, but they slow and stop. Hear him rumble around you. “I want to stay with you.”

Previous

Constructicons: Some assembly required. Can I just ride around in Scavenger’s scoop?

[artistsfuneral]

usually I am not the biggest fan of pregnancy fics (personal reason) but I had a thought that just won't leave me alone

pregnant omega Lambert

and Aiden isn't with him at the begining of this fic bc they split ways for a while

because of the way his and Aiden's mutagens work together or some other reason, Lambert actually got pregnant, which very much should not be possible. a one in a million chance of a lifetime situation.

of course Lambert doesn't believe it at first - he was feeling weird and went to see a healer who told him the news - it should be absolutely impossible! but..... babies develope a heartbeat at around 5 weeks of the pregnancy..... and if he listens, if he really concentrates on listening Lambert can hear it

useless to say that he freaks the fuck out and then does the first thing that comes to his mind and storms to kaer morhen

its the middle of the year so Vesemir is of course so confused when Lambert comes running in and goes straight to the alchemy lab where he throws himself into research

it takes a week, a week of stressed out searching through old tombs and scribbling dow notes until he realizes that it's true

he knew before of course. but lambert is a man of science so he needs to see it with his own eyes, needs to understand how it could have happened to finally grrasp the concept of his pregnancy and when he does-

when he does he falls into Vesemir's arms and start crying - he is absolutely not prepared for this, he always liked children, always wanted his own kids, yes, but he is so overhwelmed by it all

he explains Vesemir everything they talk and talk and talk and Vesemir can hear it too, stronger already, that little heartbeat that matches Lambert's own

and then Lambert asks vesemir to find Aiden for him (he's too scared to leave KM in his state even if he would never admit it) even if he wants nothing more than to go and look for his alpha by himself, he has to think about more than just himself now and-

so Vesemir heads out and finds Aiden a fucking cat goddamn it Lambert, and it's all kinds of funnily awkward and Vesemir never really tells Aiden what is going on only that Lambert is at KM and needs him and

Aiden and Lambert reuniting Aiden and Lambert talking through the night Aiden and Lambert being so incredibly in love

also baby Witcher

[fantasylover145]

It's so funny that Eddie and Buck have the exact opposite problem in relationships. Eddie has a tendency to run. Eddie ran when Shannon got pregnant and he ran to the army, when things got to hard in Texas he ran to LA. Like with Marisol and Ana as soon as they were getting real Eddie ran as fast as he could. He ran away from the 118 because of Christopher's fear and now is running away from LA to go to Christopher instead of talking AGAIN.

Whereas, Buck has a tendency to cling, he held on way to tight to Abby even though everyone told him to move on. Then with Taylor, he had been through so much trauma, had been assaulted and Chim, his niece, his sister all left him as well as his best friend, so he clung to Taylor even though you could already see it wasn't working even before Lucy. Then as soon as issues started surfacing with Tommy he overcompensated and clung on too hard.

The problem with Eddie is he never communicates to anyone in his ife, not with his partner, his best friend, his son, not unless he is forced to and will run as soon as he sees the chance to because he thinks that will fix everything, that it will make it better. Eddie thinks that by doing these dramatic life changing things that they will somehow solve all his issues instead of actually putting in the work and communicating with his loved ones. So no one can really trust Eddie because he will make unilateral decisions without ever consulting anyone in his life and everyone is left out in the dark.

On the other hand Buck is holding on too tight, I think in part because he doesn't think he will get any better, likes the comfortability and the idea of being in a relationship even when it's not good for him and should let go. Buck genuinely likes his partners and while he is willing to put in the work, he clings on way to tight because of his fear of abandonment and fear of ending up alone. Buck needs to do some reflection on what he wants in a partner because while he does genuinely likes his partners. He really should be figuring out what he wants his life to look like, what he wants in a partner and what he wants his future to look like.

If Buck and Eddie do get together they need to work on their relationship issues. Eddie needs to stop making unilateral decisions that affect other people and actually communicate with them otherwise they will never truly trust him to stick around. Buck has seen this pattern with Eddie numerous times before with Shannon and Chris but also with Buck himself. Eddie continuously has made major life decisions and only told people that it will affect waaaaaay too late. He told Shannon he was doing another tour after he already re-enlisted, he told everyone including Buck that he was leaving the 118 after he already quit, Chris had no say over Eddie quitting at all, Eddie told Buck a year after that he put him in his will and only accidentally Buck finds out that Eddie is thinking of moving back to Texas. If they get together Buck already has abandonment issues and while Eddie typically has a good reason he never actually talks to anyone before making the decision to leave. Buck is going to always be terrified that Eddie is hiding is something else or is going to leave or has made some other life changing decision without telling anyone first. How is Buck supposed to trust that Eddie won't just bolt as soon as shit gets hard?! How is Buck supposed to trust that Eddie hasn't got one foot out the door?!

But with Buck, he needs to figure out what the fuck he actually wants. Like Taylor and Tommy more than likely don't ever want kids, like Abby probably wouldn't have had biological children too, would Buck have just stuck around anyway?! Taylor, Natalia, Tommy and Abby while they had similarities were all very different. What is Buck looking for in his partners?! Does he ever actually talk about what he wants in the future?! How is Eddie supposed to trust that Buck wants to be with him if he thinks Buck is just too scared of being abandoned again and Eddie leaving him?! Therefore, Eddie may always have it in the back of his head that Buck is with him because of the wrong reasons. How is Eddie supposed to trust that Buck isn't just going with the flow and actually wants everything with him?!

Buck and Eddie desperately need to communicate with eachother. Buck needs to stop overcompensating with his partners and moving too quickly because of his fear of being abandoned. And Eddie for once needs to stop God Damn running and actually talk to his partners and his son. They also need to desperately go to therapy for a hundred years as well. Eddie shouldn't be wondering if he is just another unhealthy relationship Buck is clinging too and Buck shouldn't be constantly wondering when Eddie is going to leave him. That's why I would fucking love for Buck and Eddie to get couples therapy as soon as or even before they get together.

[babybenn]

It's just an idea I have in my head and I'm really lazy to do anything with it but what if there were a clone that was made out of Erik's and charles dna and they would have there powers combined so tgey have to co parent Idk it might be dumb but you can use it of you like for your fanfiction

Omg that sounds so much like Onslaught !!

Okay so I could totally imagine Erik having a mission with the Brotherhood to destroy a lab and in one of those labs he would find a child, barely older than 6, huddled against the back wall, covering his ears because he can hear everyone’s thoughts.

The child would have Erik’s hair, nose or lips and would have Charles’ eyes and kind smile.

Erik recognizes these eyes directly and think that the child might be Charles’ and that he had been abducted or something and he takes the child with him (the child wouldn’t show resistance because Erik is the only silent mind around him bc of the helmet and it makes me feel better).

Once he arrives at the Mansion, he goes to Charles who is in his office, and is mad to see that Charles doesn’t seem bothered by the disappearance of his child, so he screams at him but Charles is like “Wtf, what kid ?”

Then Charles sees the child and goes in Professor mode, making sure the kid is safe and not scared. After he realizes the child is also a telepath, and a powerful one, them asks him if they have a name, to which the child answers no.

They both get super worried but the child goes around Charles’ office and touches everything, since it’s his first time out of the lab.

Charles then realizes the ressemblance between the kid and Erik and asks who is the mother, to which Erik’s like “well YOU should know” and after arguing they arrive to the conclusion that the kid looks definitely like the both of them.

But they are sure of it the minute they walk into Hank’s lab to ask for a blood test because the child destroyed absolutely everything inside of it, using his metalokinesie that he inherited from Erik.

They both decides that the child must stay at the school, where he will be safe and sound, but Erik can’t leave. He wants to. He needs to. But he can’t. So after talking to Mystique, he decides to stay with the child. Just for a week. Just to help Charles and make sure no one will come for the child.

After a month, it’s clear of every inhabitant of the school that both Erik and the child are here to stay. And every time someone tries to talk about their concerns to Charles, he just says that the child deserves to have both of their fathers in their life.

Okay maybe I went to far lmao, but here’s what I would write with this idea !! Hope you like it <3

[crazylittlejester]

Hi hello do you have anything about how Twi nearly died in your modern au? Like, what happened and how Time reacted and stuff- (free invitation to yap /gen)

hi hello yes i do!! (tw for talk of suicide attempts and sh)

it was an attempt when he was 15, and the only reason he’s still alive is because he kinda snapped out of it after a second and realized he didn’t actually want to be dead (if he hadn’t told anyone he would have died in his room). Time was the only person home with him, so Twi had to go tell him 1. What he did and 2. That he’d already panic called emergency services because he was freaking out and didn’t know what to do and the ranch is decently far away from everything else. Time had had absolutely NO idea Twilight was struggling like that or that he was so unhappy he’d make an attempt on his life and he was so so terrified he was actually going to lose his kid that day, he could hardly speak he was that scared (and unfortunately Twi was a little worried that Time was MAD at him because of his silence). He drove Twi to the emergency room himself, he knew he’d get there faster and he was genuinely worried Twi didn’t have a whole lot of time to wait around for an ambulance

That was the first and only time Twilight has ever seen his dad cry, at first it was just silent tears but the second Time had called Malon to explain what was going on he broke down sobbing and Twilight is genuinely so scarred from just THAT that it’s been one of the things that’s helped him stop hurting himself; he doesn’t ever want to see his dad cry again. he never wants to be the reason his dad cries, he felt so so bad about that he had a whole mental breakdown over it

He’d been struggling with hurting himself since he was thirteen and he’s been struggling with depression and anxiety for as long as he’s been alive, he’d just get so stressed and overwhelmed he’d spiral and then he felt ashamed for being unhappy because he didn’t feel like he had a valid reason to be depressed because he had a wonderful home life and loving family, and he didn’t want them to blame themselves so he didn’t tell them. and then sophomore year of high school it just reached a point where he attempted to end his life and then the fear and anxiety kicked in and he had to tell his dad about EVERYTHING. there was a lot of crying that day, from him AND Time, but Time made sure to make Twilight feel like he wasn’t suddenly going to be treated like he was made of glass or like he was just completely unstable. Time assured him that he wasn’t angry with him and promised to do anything possible to help Twi because he loves him, he made that very very clear

Time and Malon have done their absolute best to support him, they listen to whatever he has to say and they do whatever they can to help him. They got him therapy (which was so so helpful for him) and Twi still sees a therapist, plus he’s on antidepressants which have also helped a lot. Warriors and Sky have also been nothing but supportive and patient, they’ve been friends with him since freshman year and they were pretty close by the time this happened and they were really worried about their friend but were very glad to see him start to do better

Twilight is doing very well now, he’s been sh free for six years. tho he still has bad days or days he gets urges to hurt himself again and its difficult for him to verbally ask for help but everyone in his life has figured out what it means when he silently comes to just sit by them. They know not to ask questions and to just treat him normally, or give him a hug if he initiates it, and they’ll do anything they can to help him. The tattoos on his left arm cover up a LOT of scars, they don’t cover all of em, they’re not really meant to completely cover them but they do make them a lot less visible

He really is doing better now, but ofc Time is always going to worry about him. Time’s been worrying about him since he GOT him and it just got worse when 9 year old Twi cracked his head open hopping off a horse

the most recent fic for the au is about twi having one of his bad days, ft Warriors wriggling his way into Twi’s bed to be both a comfort and a nuisance (he does a lot to help akskdjd):

[chrisisvbun]

Can I request a male reader x Bucky Barnes. One that is super angsty/fluffy. Bucky and reader like one another but they never really tell one another because things/people interrupt them. One day Bucky goes on a mission, he comes back super late. Bucky Goes to readers apartment and reader spends the whole night patching up Bucky and making him feel better. Like getting a warm bath to help him relax. Bucky was scared of never seeing reader ever again. Maybe one of them confesses?

a/n: I love it everyone send requests I love em :(

cozy night. bucky barnes x male!stark!reader.

synopsis: after your dad, tony stark, passed away, it's your job to run the company since you are the eldest kid. but going through grief and working isn't easy, you fortunately got bucky by your side ever since you started, which lead to some confusing feelings and a lot for tension between you to, that seems to never conclude in anything due to multiple interruptions.

cw: angst, death (tony's) (i teared up a bit), mention of young pregnancy, fluff, reader has a Cuban mom, slightly described reader, bucky being the sweetest, lots of tension, friends to lovers, bucky being soft and vulnerable, alcohol, anxiety, blood and scars, nudity (non sexual), flirting.

words: 2.8k

You sighed as you kept typing on your computer, a slight frown on your light brown forehead as you checked the enormous pile of papers next to you, while your glasses slightly fell through the bridge of your nose.

A knock on the door slightly called your attention, a loud “come in” came out of your throat. And that sweet, soft “Hey” made the noise on your ears shut, as your attention went completely to Bucky. 

It didn't matter if you were tired, burnt out or just having a shitty day, Bucky’s single presence in your office always made you smile.

“Hi.” You smiled sweetly, which made him smile too.

“Just wanted to check on you, it’s getting really late.” He crossed his arms, leaning against the doorframe.

“Yeah, I should call it a night.” You sighed, removing your glasses and rubbing your eyes. Bucky’s expression softened.

“Need a lift? We could grab a beer if you want.” He asked, trying to sound casual.

You sighed again. “I would love to, but Happy is picking me up with Morgan in like… ten minutes.” You glanced at the clock, your face softened at the sight of Bucky’s disappointed look. “Maybe another time, Buck.”

“Whenever you want.” He smiled, understanding. “I’m gonna head home, but text me if, for some reason, you finish early, and want to grab that beer.”

“I will. Go home, Barnes.” You smiled lovely, he smiled back.

“You too, Stark.”

After Bucky left, you began to close everything up on the top office of the Stark Tower. You took a look at your clock to check the time, 9:27 pm.

You sighed and looked at your phone, Happy confirmed that he was on the parking lot with your young sister, you smiled at the picture he sent you fo her watching through the window of the car, waiting for you.

You got into the Avengers during the blip, you lived in Connecticut with your mom, a Cuban woman that had become a mother really young, and one of the many who disappeared during the blip. One of those nights when you began to miss her, you began to check the boxes that she always hid in the basement, where you found that your father’s last name was Stark. Apparently, Tony Stark had an adventure with your mother when both of them were younger, a one time thing, that unfortunately -even though your mom says the opposite- lead to her getting pregnant at nineteen years old, in 1989.

When you found out, you managed to get in touch with the Stark Tower, and found where he was staying, only to find his new life, his new wife and daughter. Even though your mom and him weren’t nothing more than a one-night-stand, it hurt you to see how great he was doing aside from the general blip situation, where you were struggling emotionally and economically, not just during the blip but all your life.

Apart from the shock of finding out he had a son, he couldn’t have been happier about meeting you. You talked for almost a day, and he, for the first time, seemed interested in someone else rather than himself and his daughter. He asked about you, about your mom, your studies, your life in general. And you couldn’t blame him, he didn’t know, and at that moment, you believed him when he told you that, if he had known, he would've stayed. You wanted to keep believing that. And he even made you your own suit.

You went with him to find the infinity stones, you fought with Thanos to save him. And when the words “I’m Iron Man” came out of his mouth, you saw the man you had began to call your father, and who now had passed.

“No, no, no, not now. Not now, please.” You sobbed, grabbing his hands, he weakly looked at you. “JARVIS, his vitals.” 

But you didn’t even try listening to the voice, you saw his eyes and his slight smile and knew, you knew like you’ve known him all your life.

“Dad, please… I want to know more, please, don’t- Dad-” Your voice cracked more, trying to hold him more only to be removed by Steve. “Dad, please!” You sobbed as Steve held you, trying to make you calm down.

You fell to your knees watching his life leaving his eyes, only crying louder, thinking what are you going to tell Morgan.

“Hey, kid.” Happy made you snap out of your thoughts. “Hey, you alright?” He asked, concerned.

“Yeah, yeah,” You swallowed the knot of sadness in your throat and smiled. “Where is she?” You looked around, and the answer jumped right to your back, making you complain of the sudden hit.

“Big bro!” Your sister hugged your neck from behind. You laughed and moved her around to grab her in your arm, rubbing her hair.

“Hey there, little devil.” You teased.

The night was great, you went to a simple diner, together, ate cheeseburgers as you caressed your sister’s hair. You smiled as you looked down at her asleep in your arms, seeing your dad all over his factions. He looked more like him, you were more like him. But looking at her made you feel a pang of protectiveness and affection that you’d rarely ever felt. He was the best thing your father left you, and the cutest and the softest.

“Can’t we have a sleepover?” Your sister pouted as you began to climb out of the car.

“Morgan…” Happy began to scold her.

“It’s okay, Hap.” You smiled at him. “Maybe during the weekend, alright? a day where I don't have to stay really late and wake up really early” You smiled as she nodded. You gently leaned in and rubbed her little nose with yours, leaning your forehead against hers. “I love you 3000.”

Your sister giggled and smiled. “I love you 3000.”

(...)

A knock on the door called your attention again, and you smiled once Bucky got in your sight.

“Barnes.”

“Stark.” He smiled. “What are you up to?” He nodded at your computer, you sighed.

“Some meetings I need to have with investors, taxes, boring shit.” You shrugged.

“Sounds like heavy shit.” You nodded. “So… In order for you to relax, wanna, you know, grab that beer?” He smiled, leaning against your desk.

You smiled and were about to answer, about to say yes and finally do it. Finally go out with him, have a decent date. But your phone rang.

You sighed. “Sorry.” You said with honest guilt, but that faded when he gave you a knowing smile. 

You grabbed the phone, starting with the usual greeting until you got serious. “I’ll be there in a minute.” You hung up and rubbed your face, standing up.

“Hey, hey.” Bucky put his hands on your shoulders. “What 's wrong?”

You sighed and he put you against his chest, soothing you before you spoke. “My mom, she is having problems with the house but she doesn’t want to move out, and the idiot that wants to buy the house to make a building came again, apparently, and they are… I don’t know, making a fucking mess.” You pulled away from his embrace. “I’m really sorry, Buck-”

“Don’t you dare to apologize.” He smiled while ruffling your hair. “It’s alright, we’ll get to it some time.”

After fighting with white dudes and defending your mother, at eleven o’clock you finally got home, and after getting changed and ready to bed, you called Bucky.

“Yeah?”

“Barnes, hey.” You instantly smiled when heard him, and you heard how he huffed a smile too.

“Stark, it’s good to hear you this happy.” He teased slightly.

You chuckled. “I just… heard you and got happy.” You said with a slight shy tone.

“You are gonna make me blush, handsome.” He said sweetly. “What’s going on?”

“No, nothing, I just- Are you still down for that beer? Maybe tomorrow?” You said, again in that shy tone, making Bucky chuckle.

“I would love to, doll, but you see, I just got a notification that I have a mission.”

You huffed, frustrated. “Are you kidding me?” You whined.

Bucky laughed at your whiny tone. “It seems like we will never get to it, do we?”

“Don’t say that, idiot…” You giggled.

“I’ll pick you up after the mission tomorrow, alright? I’ll text you.” Bucky said casually, your heart skipped a bit and you smiled stupidly.

“Yeah, yeah… that sounds great.”

The day after that call felt light like a feather, you had a smile on your face all day long, even during long meetings that did nothing but bore you. The last paper you signed and you clocked out for the day, excited to head home and get ready for the night that was about to finally happen.

So you waited, long hours with your outfit that you had been thinking about since the day before. You began to wonder if he would ever come, if he wanted this date as much as you did. You began to think it wasn’t the case, the mission should had finished hours ago, and he simply wasn’t there.

You were about to head to the bar by yourself, but as you waited outside your apartment, your phone buzzed in your pocket.

"Barnes." You answered in a tone that was a mixture of coldness and concern.

"Stark, I'm sorry, but I won't be able to make it." His voice was strained, and you heard the unmistakable sound of pain in the background.

"What happened?" You asked as you felt a sting of guilt in your heart.

"Mission went sideways. I'm okay, just… need to take care of the scratches." He assured you, but his voice was laced with exhaustion.

"I'll be right there." You said without a second thought, not letting him answer or deny.

When you arrived at his place, you found Bucky leaning against the wall, his shirt stained with blood and his eyes filled with relief at the sight of you. Without saying a word, you helped him inside. You grabbed the first aid kit and some clean towels, your hands shaking slightly as you approached him.

"Let me do this." You said, kneeling down to remove his boots.

He nodded, wincing as you gently peeled his shirt away from his skin. The wounds weren't deep, but they were numerous, a testament to the fight he had just been in. You worked meticulously, cleaning each cut and bruise with gentle strokes of the cloth, your eyes never leaving his.

"Thanks." He murmured, his voice hoarse.

You nodded, trying to ignore the way your heart skipped a beat every time your hands brushed against his skin. "It's what friends do."

He looked up at you, his eyes searching yours. "Yeah," He said softly, "it is." He knew what you meant.

You patched him up in silence, sitting on his couch as you cleaned his small wounds. You moved up to close the small cut on his brown, Bucky winced slightly, gripping your thigh slightly. “Sorry.” You said low. “Don’t be.” He smiled weakly, his hand caressing your thigh gently.

After you patched him up, you got the chance to notice how his whole body was covered in a layer of sweat and dirt.

“Wait here.” You stood up and left for the bathroom, and after some minutes, you peeked through there. “Can you walk here?”

He nodded and approached, he entered the bathroom, covered in steam, the tub filled with warm water. “I’ll help you get undressed.” You said. He was so tired, he just slumped on the toilet with a groan and nodded. With gentle touches you removed his clothes, with nothing but affection and care. You pulled down his pants, his socks, his shirt, and looked up at him, silently asking if you could remove his pants, at which he nodded weakly.

You removed his boxers, not even wanting to check anything in him. You helped him in the tub, and he shivered at the contact of the warm water. “Too hot?”

He shook his hair. “It’s perfect.” You smiled at him gently.

You went to the kitchen and came back with two cold beers opened, passing him one to him.

He looked up, his icy blue eyes softened at the sight of you offering him a drink, he almost wanted to cry. Your family and him already had a story, not the best one, and he didn’t want that to be relevant, but at the same time, there was something that made him want to push you away, to avoid rejection, because if you didn’t want him if you didn’t crave him as much as he did, he wouldn’t be ab;e to do it, to move on from you. But the idea of being away from you physically hurt him, just thinking about not crashing in your office once in a while, seeing you smile, making you blush, making you laugh. He dreamt about that cute face of yours every single night.

He grabbed the beer and both of you took a long sip, one of your hands moved to scratch his scalp while sitting in the edge of the tub. He rested his head on the side of your thigh, sighing, relaxed, happy.

“This wasn’t how I thought our date would go.” Bucky said.

You giggled. “Date?” He blushed and hid his red face on your leg, making you laugh again. “If you told me it was a date before, I would’ve postponed everything in my agenda.”

“Oh, c’mon, you could tell.” He complained, you laughed again and drank from your beer.

“Well, if this is our date, i’m having a great time.”

“Really?” He looked up at you.

“Yeah. I mean, I get to have a drink with a naked handsome man.” You laughed, he chuckled against your leg.

“Yeah, I guess you are right.” He smiled, looking up at you.

“You still in pain?”

He was about to tell you the truth and say no, because that was the reality. His muscles were relaxed due to the warm water, so all the pain was already long gone. But he decided to lie a bit.

“Actually, no.” He huffed, sitting in the tub.

“You have any pain killers here?”

“Mm, yeah.” He kissed your cheek. “But maybe, just maybe, if a pretty boy kissed me, my problems would get solved.”

You raised an eyebrow at him and followed along with his little game. “What a shame, we don’t have any pretty boys here.”

He chuckled and grabbed your jaw gently, turning your face to him. He pressed his lips into yours in a soft kiss, but also a really brief one.

“Well, I guess you are one, because I’m not in pain anymore.” He smiled over his lips.

You rolled your eyes with a playful smile. “You are an idiot.”

“You adore me like that, Stark.” He pecked against your lips repeatedly.

“Hell yeah I do, Barnes.”

[pain-is-too-tired]

Thinking about gods shifting size again.

Poseidon 100% just pops up in a fish tank or glass of water or something in his small size to Percy sometimes. Nearly scaring the daylights out of him. Though typically Poseidon prefers to be bigger... especially cause he can hold Percy and Tyson easier like that jdgdg

"Dad-im almost grown, you seriously don't have to hold me like this-"

Triton just over to the side like "Trust me dude, I'm centuries old and he still does it. Don't waste your breath."

Tyson's having a great time!

Hermes actually trying to father and popping up out of nowhere and nearly scaring Chris half to death. Pouting when Chris really wants nothing to do with him, but ends up going along with it anyways when Hermes keeps pouting.

The Stolls are too likely to tease their dad if he's small. But Hermes will pick them and Chris up and try to put them in some nest/bed or something like a broody hawk.

George and Martha grow with him too btw. Your godly dad being much bigger than you is one thing. His snakes? Whole other ball game.

Also, imagine just the image of giant size Hephaestus awkwardly holding one of his kids. Just trying so hard to be careful cause they're fragile.

Meanwhile Zeus over there hitting his across a whole ocean ffsfd

Apollo kids find their dad snuggled up next to them in small form like a Lil mouse.

Apollo definitely goes into broody mode more than anyone. You even glance his kids way he will give you the black plague. One of his sacred animals is a swan. Good luck if you cross him why broody. His poor kids are so confused. It took everything to convince him to let them back to camp to work after the titan war gdgdf

[ethereal-blossom]

WOW. This is research done at its finest because I did not know the storyline/concept was this old, so that would fit really well!

He talks about death as if it's a living person.

Something that I noticed during the Wrecked the Halls event is that when Victor talks about death in it, it was said with a capital.. And I thought that was so interesting because what do we have to picture when Victor talks about Death exactly? Is this Death a higher being? Symbolism for his curse? A concept that feels very real to Victor? In the event, he said he was loved by Death but also trapped by it, which pains me so much because as you said, he cherishes freedom so much. My gosh I care so much about this fictional 2d man my heart is genuinely hurting. It also crossed my mind for a second that Death was maybe a person and that it could be in a sense be related to Queen Victoria because I have a theory in which Victor was a kid of the slums and was taken under Queen Victoria's wing for whatever reason. But it's also the way he said in his butler collection event that he belongs to Victoria but he also talks like he belongs to Death.

and AAAAAHHH your theory of how Rapunzel relates to his curse is so so good!! Another detail I think enforces it is that Mother Gothel actively runs away from ageing and by that dying. She can't go more than a few days or so without her needing the flower before her body turns old again. So Victor's curse being related to actually speeding up the dying process, making people die before they were naturally meant to... *squeels in excitement* I'm so happy you thought of the flower!! Buuut this makes me scared of his faith :') In theory, all of the cursed people can live a long life as long as their tragic faith doesn't catch up with them all too soon. But if Victor's curse is related to dying sooner... What does that mean for him or the people around him? I shouldn't think about tragic faiths too much because let it over to a fluff girly to get obsessed with such an angsty game :')

He wanted something to grow in his life, because his cursed ability kills everything. It's fitting. His flower garden... his hair... his children... It's pretty obvious when you think about it..."

I'M PUTTING YOU ON AN ANGST TIME-OUT🥹but also regarding your children section Mother Gothel brought Rapunzel to her tower and Victor gathered all the boys plus Kate together in Crown castle.

ALSO MY MIND WAS BLOWN WHEN YOU PUTTED OUT HIS CURSE FORMAT IS DIFFERENT. That felt like the biggest plot twist just happened. Overall, I'm so in awe of all the details you plucked out. If I would praise you every time I felt amazed by you, this post would be so much longer. Thank you🙏

Victor theories. His curse and cursed ability.

After I posted my thoughts on the possible curse of Vivi, I had a very interesting conversation with @.ethereal-blossom, and she gave me some more ideas that I would like to share. Our conversation was quite long (I think we both like to talk), so I decided to start a new post. This doesn't mean that I think my previous thoughts are wrong. I just like to think about other options. They have every right to be at least considered. This time, they were mostly based on his cursed ability and the most significant aspects of his personality, which were quite difficult to not notice.

After my random joke about the poison apple, Michelle came up with another idea - the tower. And she speculated how much this concept corresponded to Vivi. I would like to continue, because it seems to me that this may be even closer to the truth than Rumplestiltskin.

Rapunzel

The tower is quite fit into the concept of a villain. There is no entrance or exit, except for the window, which is far from the ground. It takes away the freedom of a poor girl, and it's just an awful place. Yes, I'm terrible at making stupid excuses. But why can the briar and the mirror be villains, but the tower is not. This is discrimination against the towers' right to be villains!

But… let's talk about the real villain in this story. I don't remember the original…

...

...

I read it, nothing interesting.

Let's based on the animated film "Tangled" (2010). Another good movie from this year? I think it was a good year… In this movie, the villain was the greedy woman Gothel, who used Rapunzel to stay young and beautiful. Greedy. So… Vivi can be Gothel. In fact, he mentioned that he was greedy back at the first event.

I have no idea how his appearance can indicate that he is NOT greedy or greedy if that is matter. I somehow don't understand the concept that an appearance can tell you something, it's just an appearance. Whatever.

The theme of restriction of freedom was very strong in this story. And for Vivi, freedom is everything. In this fairy tale, there is a strong desire to get rid of responsibility and the inability to do so. And we all feel this in Vivi. This is a contradiction. The desire to be free and the inability to be free because he is bound… by something. Maybe it's some kind of guilt, or a promise, or something entirely different. I really try not to think about the Black Butler, I really do.

Michelle also mentioned that devs like to mix villains with the protagonist in this game. As it was with Elbert. Who is both the greedy queen and Snow white. Based on this concept… Vivi's long hair may also indicate that he is Rapunzel.

How can this be reflected in his story? He's so obsessed with freedom… maybe he just wants to fix his previous mistake. He deprived someone of their freedom, and this awakened his curse. Maybe… or maybe it was his freedom that was taken away from him… and that's why he's so desperate to protect others from the same fate.

And just to try to defend this theory within the terms of the oldest history… The concept of "Maiden in the Tower" is actually quite old. From the Wiki:

I became curious about when the Greek myths actually originated, and I got this answer:

And… that again gave us 5,000 years at most.

But if we talk only about the concept of a woman with long hair. Again from the Rapunzel article

1000 years ago. Yes, it's not that much, but for me it's still a lot.

His cursed ability

Another thing what bothers me is… his curse. I shouldn't talk about it now… it will only be in his birthday story in February. Oh well…

In the 1st birthday story translated by @.archiveikemen

He didn't tell them to do it, as William usually does. At first I thought the phrase "succumb to my wickedness" was some kind of order, but in the next part he didn't say anything, and it still works. Maybe, for the sake of the quality of the narrative, the author did not repeat his words many times, maybe not… It annoys me that I can't fully understand how his ability works.

If we go back a little bit… The Black Wedding event.

Victor chose Kate's lipstick as a weapon (from her lips) and just drew a line on the guy's throat, nothing else, and the guy was scared… Did Vivi's touch just scare the person? Did it make him remember something? Maybe he imagined himself in the place of his victims? Back then I thought maybe he had some kind of hypnosis… or poison… to change a person's perception… But it's more Ally's thing. But he won't do it anyway.

But Vivi's last remark was quite frightening.

He talks about death as if it were a living being.

Let's take a look at the latest Halloween event, "Chaotic night", translated by @.reccyls. In this event, all the boys' abilities were significantly increased.

If his increased ability causes everything around him to age faster than usual and die immediately if he touches them. What can it tell us about his abilities? Maybe he can control it better. Maybe it's activated by some words, like it was on his birthday event? Or just from a simple touch of his with a mental order, as it was at the Black Wedding?

Just a random thought. Perhaps, as a child, he couldn't control his abilities and literally killed everyone around him. Terrifying… but the image is so vivid that I think it's more than possible.

This ability of his seems to be the exact opposite of the Rapunzel flower's power, which prolongs life. Could it be the same thing? Who knows. Even poison in small doses can become a cure…And the other way around, a large dose of medicine turns into poison.

And in Rumplestiltskin, there was no mention of Rumplestiltskin's other abilities other than making gold. The only thing that connects this story with death is that in the beginning he saved a woman, and in the end he had to die himself. It's a pretty weak connection.

On the other hand, the story about a man who sold his soul to the Devil… it can correspond to both his desire for freedom and his abilities. But what could Vivi ask for that? What will he gain from this?

This is from the very beginning of the "Love and Death" event, which will be released pretty soon on EN, translated by @.reccyls

So it involves making some kind of decision. But the curse doesn't give an opportunity to deside something. It just gets stuck in a person. Perhaps @.reccyls was right, and Vivi is the first cursed one and a kind of ancestor of each of boys.

And back to his cursed ability. This is what I talked about in my previous post. He wanted something to grow in his life, because his cursed ability kills everything. It's so fitting. His flower garden… his hair… his children… It's pretty obvious when you think about it…

In addition, I would like to talk about other things that I did not mention in the first post, and what it could give us.

Small details

It took me a while to find... Here.

So… butterfly, fish and scorpion. Sky, water and earth. There is only fire left, and we've got all the elements. Did they just miss it? Does that mean something? Why there is no fire?..

On the other hand… In my first post, when I mentioned the god of death… there was a line saying that a butterfly means a soul. And scorpio is quite often associated with Ancient Egypt. I probably watch The Mummy too much (1999 and 2002).

No, I was right.

So… Most likely, these two symbols were used in his design simply to indicate his occupation… The god of death, who collects souls. After all, that's why they call him the grim reaper.

Children

By a very odd coincidence, in both fairy tales, I am still considering the most possible variants of his curse, children are mentioned one way or another.

Rapunzel was literally kidnapped as a baby and raised in a tower.

And Rumplestiltskin wanted to get a child for all he had done for these ungrateful people. I'm still mad at them.

And Victor loves all his cute cursed boys very much, as if they were his children.

That's all, there's nothing to add.

And again… to complicate things

I took a screenshot from the description of the character and to compare Willy (he was just next to him, I was too lazy to look for other options).

Do you see? I'll show it closer.

And I put William's description on top.

This is a fake page!

All the pages for boys look like this:

Cursed by (name of the curse) from (name of the fairy tale)

But here… they just erase the space in the first line (which by definition should be empty), erase the place where his curse should be, and… there is no place for the fairy tale from which he comes. Even on Harrison's page, there is only a question mark, there was still room for a curse.

The second thing that makes me think so… all names of curses begin right under the word "Cursed"… but the blur on Victor's page starts from the middle… Perhaps this was done specifically for aesthetic reasons… the name is too short… but why is there no place for a fairy tale here???

And FINALLY after reading one of Michelle's posts… I caught the word "worship", and for some reason it got me hooked, and I decided to turn to Google…

This can't be! Right?

I was joking about Nico's decoration, which looks like Cthulhu… Vivi can't be Cthulhu…

But it all fits together. The god of death, who makes people worship him and follow him with joy, which is supposed to kill all of humanity… The only thing that doesn't add up is a fairly new story… from the first half of the 20th century. But the concept of the God of Death is not new. We return to the myths.

Damn you, Victor! You're a mummy. And I don't care that it has nothing to do with anything. At least it fits your curse!

(joyful exhalation)

Now I can think of something else. For example, how old he is, about his relationship with the queen, about his past, about his true identity…

Ally, save me, I'm going to drown in this man.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🔝 𝕊𝕋𝔸ℝ𝕋 ℙ𝔸𝔾𝔼 🔝

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[dat-lil-shark]

Just to inform you, guys. I’m intending that, for the majority of our Sparkling AU, it’s an AU, so it’s not about the characters when they are actually babies anymore. It’s basically about the whole entire TFP story except it’s set in a universe where there are no actual wars. The whole ‘war’ thing is just some sparklings going into groups and play-fighting with their imaginations. Every character that ‘died’ in this universe are just either moving to another school (ex: Cliffjumper & Elita One) or got tired of the game and didn’t wanna play anymore (Ex: Skyquake, Dreadwing, and Breakdown). And all the human characters are all little ragdolls that are brought to life by the sparkling’s imaginations.

cause the actual show crippled me and this is my denial mechanism.

(read the tags)

[anthromimicry]

jandy nelson, i'll give you the sun | jean anouilh tr, by lewis galantière | @soulinkpoetry | trista mateer, the dogs i have kissed | the bible

[kelpermoosee]

I need to draw Booigi real soon, the lack of them is making me itchy

[tenwhiteandalusians]

and then no one said anything about the fact that if i watched ONE MORE episode tenax pulls a "i'm not angry i'm just disappointed i'm hurt" about scorpus signing with the white faction.

[presidentcircles-assistant]

you’re just like your father

[ID: A digital drawing of Trey, a stylized original Flatland character, done against a beige background. Trey is an grey Isosceles triangle with dark brown markings, dark grey limbs, a blocky, dark grey eyebrow, and a single grey eye in his center. On his legs, his ankles have small triangular spikes.

He has markings that consist of two curved lines across his bottom two angles connecting his bottom side and his other sides, two thin triangles curving slightly inwards right above his eyebrow, and a curved line connecting the two sides below his top angle.

He is slighting facing to the right, looking down at the camera. He is standing with his right leg to the side and his left leg facing slightly outwards. His left hand is held in a fist at his side, and his right hand is resting, held slightly behind him. His top angle is thinner than the rest of his body and slightly chipped. There are uneven lines around his body and his left fist to show he’s shaking.

His eyebrow is pulled down and his eye is squinted in an angry expression. He has a slit pupil and there are tears in his eye.

Behind him, stretching out like a shadow, is a faded Isosceles triangle named Easton. He has a single closed eye. There are two curved lines connecting his sides above and below his eye, creating a circular center. His center is light grey, and his bottom half and top angle are dark brown.

End ID.]