#but the rain oooooo how i hate how it rains

[missmonkeymode]

Best part about death stranding is watching nornan reedus take a piss

[ijwrsmff]

OOOOOO Bennett trying to confess to Reader but every time, his bad luck ruins it (maybe gets some help from Razor?)

Word Count: 1,334

@ibby-miyoshi-nerd @monster-scribe-tya

Why why why why why???

Was the question he had to ask himself on repeat. Bennett, the world’s unluckiest boy, was falling. Both literally and romantically. He asked that one word question so many times, at each failed attempt to confess. So he decided to consult one of his best friends. Razor himself. 

Bennett wasted no time in venting about his struggles. “Dude it’s so unfair! The universe hates me! I keep trying to confess to y/n but something always goes wrong!” He flopped down, but slipped even further than planned, only further proving his point when his head hit a rock. 

“Confess? Confess what? Have you done wrongs by y/n?” His head was tilted in confusion, he didn’t think it was in Bennett’s character to do anything to harm another. Maybe it was accidental though…maybe something had happened to his friend. “Is y/n okay?” 

Bennett sighed, and looked over to Razor. “They’re…they’re perfect.” He clutched his hands over his chest with a big smile on his face. Though he realized how odd this might sound to Razor. “I…like y/n. Like a lot.” He opened one eye to see if Razor was comprehending. He wasn’t. 

“As in…I want to hold their hand. Take them wherever in Teyvat they want to go. Be…by their side.” He sighed again, and used his hands to mess up his own hair in frustration. “Why are feelings so difficult?” 

“So you wish to be their mate.” Razor looked as if he figured out a difficult puzzle, but opposingly, Bennett looked so red he might combust at any moment. 

He scrambled up, and waved his hands in front of him. “N-no! Don’t say that! It just…sounds weird.” He set his arms down, and a cloud of rain began to fall. Typical. “I want to be…their boyfriend. Or maybe even just go on a date to see if they like me back!” 

Razor then came up with a plan. Not that Bennett could tell. “I come back. You stay. Must…talk to wolves. For advice.” It was far from subtle, but Bennett didn’t know that. He was so lost in his feelings that he rolled over onto his side and just laid in the mud. He would get sick like that…but chances are he’d get sick even on a beautiful sunny day. 

Razor ran from his den to Mondstat, which admittedly wasn’t that far. He did notice that the sun shined only a few paces towards the city. Weird. It was raining so much at his den. He made a mental note to silently blame Bennett and his bad mood. 

Razor sniffed the air, and found you at the cat's tail. He despised the place, but went in anyways. He located you quickly, and grabbed your arm. “Friend. Come. Bennett sad.” He didn’t waste any time, and began dragging you to his den. 

“Bennett’s sad?” Was all you needed to hear. You cared for him…he was a silly boy. He always made you laugh. It was rare for him to be sad. But how come Razor traveled all this way just to tell you this?

He let go of your arm when he knew you were following, and he nodded. “Yes. Sad. You stay back…” He whispered once you were approaching the big swarm of rain, probably indicating Bennett was there. “Just sit. Listen.” 

He ushered you behind one of the trees, and while confused…you obeyed. You had no idea what Razor was trying to prove, but you trusted him. He knew Bennett well, if silently listening to their conversation could help him somehow, then you’d do it. In a heartbeat. 

Razor approached Bennett, laying on the ground in the mud. He knelt down and poked him, confirming he was alive. “Friend. Up. You get sick.” He nudged him once more, and he stirred. 

“Leave me in the mud.” It was almost funny, but you knew in his tone and body language that something was wrong. You wanted to run out from behind the tree to comfort him, but you had to see this out before jumping in. Who knows…maybe he didn’t want you to help him. 

“Why sad?” Razor asked, and glanced over at you as he helped Bennett stand, Razor facing you and Bennett’s back to you. 

Bennett groaned loudly, and fell limp in Razor’s arms. “You know why! I just wanna be with them…” He eventually stood fully, and looked up at the sky, towards the rain clouds that were only growing darker. 

Who was ‘them’? Did he…have a crush? The way he said it made it sound romantic. How could you try and pursue him when he had someone else on his mind? It made you want to run away from here.

“I tried asking them out by standing on a chair to make myself look bigger and stronger, but I fell flat on my face!” Wait a second…that sounded familiar. “Then when we were watching the thunderstorm I turned to kiss them and I got struck by lightning!” This didn’t just sound familiar…it was familiar. These are scenarios that happened between the two of you. 

“Then I tried to skip the theatrics and take them to Liyue but I got lost and couldn’t find them!” Now you’re certain. The person he liked…was you. These were supposed to be…confessions? 

You hid behind the tree so Razor couldn’t see your beet red face, and covered your hand with your mouth. He liked you! He really liked you! After all this time of thinking he was oblivious to the concept of romantic love, it turned out he was trying to be with you the whole time. 

“Y/n. Show.” Razor spoke, and Bennett looked confused when you circled the tree to face him. His face went pale first, and then pink…then a deep shade of red. He had been caught. 

“W-w-w-w-wait! This isn’t how you were supposed to find out!” He ran up to you, looking frazzled, and spoke quickly, “How did you know where I was? Were you li-” 

“Bennett.” You spoke, trying to interrupt his rant. It didn’t work. 

“-stening the whole time? Oh gods what did I even say? Was it embarass-”

“Bennet.” 

“-ing? What have I done! I probably just ruined our friendship, I’m so-”

“BENNETT!” If speaking in a normal tone wouldn’t work, you’d have to talk over him. Which is exactly what you did, and even chuckled a bit when he went silent mid-sentence. 

“I like you too.” It was simple, but effective. All three parties went silent. Wait three…? Where did Razor go? He must have left to give the two of you space…

“Y-You do?” He whimpered, almost as if he was scared this was a prank of some kind. He looked away from you, but then still found himself too embarrassed. He covered his face with both hands. 

If he wasn’t going to be confident in this, you would have to be. Although the redness of your face, and uncertainty in your eyes told a different story. 

You took both of his hands, and carefully removed them from his face. When he looked straight at you, he closed his eyes tightly. He was…so scared of rejection. This poor boy…who you were falling for didn’t think he deserved your love. You would have to prove him wrong. 

“Really. I mean it.” And you leaned forward, kissing the bridge of his nose, of which the bandaid had fallen off long ago. 

He was the first to notice that the rain had stopped. And a small beam of light came through, hitting the trees above your heads. For the first time in a while…things were looking up. He was filled with hope. 

Hope that you meant it. Hope that you won't leave him. Hope…that he could continue to fall in love with you. He was glad that he had you, and you mirrored that feeling. 

“To the ‘bright’ future ahead of us.” He said, looking up at the beautiful sky. 

[ausssbutlershortstories]

Hi, I hope you are having a good day and if not, I hope it gets better. I see a lot of people messaging you and talking about austin, kaia, austin and kaia, and shipper hate. So, I wanna do something different to give you a bit of a break. Feel free to ignore if you don't vibe. 1. Least favorite song to sing along to?

2. What super power do you not want to get?

3. what movie made you question who green lit it?

4. Whats the secret talent you wish you had?

5. why did the blood bank hate when dracula visited? (answer at the end)

6. Last book you read?

7. What book do you want to read but can't find a copy?

8. What color is the sky where you are, its pink for me.

9. How much wood could a wood chuck chuck, if a wood chuck could chuck wood?

10. Do you count yourself lucky that your nose is on your face and not between your toes?

Answer: cause he was always making withdrawls. P.s can you check on 6, I think they're afraid of 7.

p.s.s do you know the muffin man?

Oooooo i like !

1. Lease favorite song is the mickey mouse club house song. I help my sister with her kids a lot and it gets stuck in my head often 😩

2. A super power wouldn’t want ? I say reading people’s minds. That would be scary and I’ll probably get my feelings hurt a lot lmao 😂

3. Who green lit is ?

4. A secret talent is I wish my tits can tell when it’s gonna rain like Karen from mean girls

5. oh can’t wait for this one 👀👀👀

6. Last book I read was Flowers in the Attic. I have seen the movies but never read the books by V. C Andrews . Good read but lordddddd

7. I wanna read more V.C Andrews books. Can’t find them in my local library or anything so I’ll try to see if I can find them on amazon maybe. Her storylines are dark but interesting.

8. It’s getting dark where Im at so it’s slightly lit but not to much.

9. LMAO ! This caught me off guard 🤣😂🤣😂

10. Idk man now i’m kind of curious of what that would be like 👀👀👀

LOL the muffin man comment made me think of that scene from shrek with the Gingerbread man 💀🤣

This actually gave me a good laugh 😂 thank you anon I love it ❤️❤️

[crossover-enthusiast]

Zeus doesnt seem like he'd appear that much, but he'd definitely there and would be a badass respected presence jdbdnd. He's usually there to teach a lesson though, and always gets involved if some sort of law or order is broken. He's probably the reason the thieves get caught so much since he sends a gut feeling to Lila to get the fuck up because there's people in her house—Skid also canonically just asked no one if they could make it rain or storm because he didn't wanna go to school, and Zeus for some reason decided he'd actually listen and made it storm, but decided to teach Skid a lesson in the process by giving him consequences and ripping what he wanted to do out of his reach (while also possibly testing what Skid will do about it or even talking to him in the process to see if he's learnt his lesson). And since he's the literal king of the gods, I can see him fighting the Cult or bringing karma to them, and also fighting Eyes at some point (struggling since Eyes is an eldritch entity but winning because.. well.. he's a god—). He'd also probably teach Roy a lesson if he ever saw him bullying the kids, or if he saw Susie being too harsh on them or Ignacio threatening them or Gregor being a hypocrite, etc etc. He and Hera are a power couple hrhdhd.

Ares is incredibly aggressive on the other hand and comes off as a brute, but he's very sweet deep down and just doesn't know how to express himself. He's very serious and almost fatherly, and also hates it when women are disrespected. He can also be very bloodthirsty, and likes dying for honor rather than strategizing and is more focused on violence than the tragedy of the fight itself. He's Aphrodites lover btw and has a very sweet relationship with her/pos. He's actually been around since Lila was a child, and has blessed her in his own way or just 'chosen' her if that's the right word. Which is why she's so angry when it comes to protecting Skid and fights for what's right. If anything, I can see him interfering during TT just so Lila can kick Bob ass and succeed in doing so. He also dislikes when people are cowards about things—since.. hes.. well the god of courage. And typically assists the cops because they're brave enough to go against things. He probably blessed John or Jack, or both. And I can see him having blessed Ignacio in the past, but being very dissapointed since he doesn't fight for what's right and is just an asshole. Can also see Aphrodite sending him to fucking kill Roy's uncle and him proudly doing so by influencing him to be exactly where Eyes is running in and have Eyes crush him. Or just straight up killing Roy's uncle himself.

Poseidon would probably rarely be here since there isn't much water shown in the series. But he's present in all water I'm pretty sure, so he probably literally is the Holy Water Gregor gives Kevin & Radford. Unsure if he'd blessed anyone. I get the strange vibe he'd bless Jaune though cuz of her cowgirl costume/lh. He'd probably drown Roy's uncle somewhere if he ever came across him and knew what Roy's uncle actually did. Can see him informing Zeus and Ares of the kids whereabouts sometimes through the sewer water and seeing where they pass by. Skid also probably went to the beach one time and yelled at the waves to get bigger, so Poseidon listened and hit Skid with a massive ass wave. He'd also probably try to fight the cult in his own way by either causing an earthquake, a storm or a full on flood toward their house on the hill. Or flooding the town so that they can't escape the house on the hill and are forced to confront him (literally the water). Jaune seems like she'd be unaware of him, or she would be aware and would be canonically hellenist jdnsnsn.

Oooooo!!

[antis-hell]

Hey besties!

So favourite scents for anyone who wants to answer? I myself find certain scents really grounding and / or comforting, like cotton candy or fresh rain, but I was curious about you guys!

- Wilford 🫧

Oooooo! Yes we do:] (also hi bestie!!)

I've given up on listing everyone that pops on this acc so rapid fire lol

Me(anti): fire is really nice for me, smoke, I don't think it's a grounding thing more just... it makes brain go brrrrrr lol. Also the smell of forests is grounding for me due to my source:]

Darky likes the smell of Roses (ironically/ij) and also steak. Steak is a front trigger for him, so that makes sense, but Roses is just random lol

Mark has this weird thing about chocolate

Ray is really specific he likes violin polish(? I think that's what it's called) cus he used to play the violin in source, he also still knows how to play it now interestingly:]

Damien really likes the smell of mint and snow, although we don't get snow here so we only found that out recently lol

A lot of our star/celestial beings like smell of the night sky unsurprisingly

Ian really likes the smell of acrylic paint, or just anything like that

And Wilford/Ben really likes the smell of rain/the smell just before it starts raining, which I find funny cus dude HATES the actual rain lol

[slothspaghettiwrites]

Happy Birthday Slothy!!!!! You're exactly 6 months older than me 🤭🤭

For a prompt, Sherrif Daddy takes the reader away from her toxic family and tells her he's going to keep her safe, please and thank you ❤❤❤

Oooooo

Stay

Warnings: toxic familial (maternal) relationship, abusive parents, protective!Lee, angst, hurt/comfort, trauma, self hate, unedited

When the doorbell rang, you flinched, fingers digging deeper into the brown leather jacket draped over your shoulder. Lee walked out of the kitchen and looked at you. His face was like stone, set and serious, as he walked to his front door.

"Can I help you?"

"Sorry to bother you, Sheriff, but have you seen that useless kid of mine? She's normally home by now and I'm just worried with how late it is."

Lee shifted his weight, his hip sticking out for his hand to rest on his gun.

"Ain't seen 'em," he grunted. "Ya know if you wanna file a report, ma'am, ya gotta do it down at the station. But she's probably just out with friends, doing what the young kids her age do."

If you wanna...

Your mother would never file a report. You don't even know why she wants you back. The money you brought home every week from the gas station wasn't enough to help the family, you were pretty sure you couldn't cook to save your life, and you knew for a fact that you were ugly as sin. Your mother liked to remind you of this anytime she thought you were getting too big for your britches.

"Well, ya see, we got into a bit of an argument this morning," your mother starts.

"Oh me and the whole damn neighborhood heard it." Lee's voice grew angry, his control slipping.

You shuddered, thinking about this morning and how you got here. The water dumped over your head when you overslept and didn't make breakfast. Your mother's screeching voice as she berated and threatened you still echoed in your mind. Your knuckles still throbbed from the wooden spoon she preferred.

"Yeah, well how I discipline my kid is my business. If you see her, tell her she's gonna be in a heap of trouble when she drags her sorry ass home."

Lee slammed the door in her face.

Again you flinched. He turned on his heels to look at you. He had that same pitying expression on his face when he found you crying in the alley. Your hours had been cut again and you couldn't face going home early. So out in the rain you stood, your face turned up to sky hoping it would wash away your worries.

"You don't have to go back there," he murmured.

"Where would I go?" Tears pricked at the back of your eyes again.

"Stay. Stay with me, darlin'."

[90minsofscreentime]

What are your three favorite Starker fan fictions?

For me, without a doubt:

first position: Lanterns burning, flickered in the mind (only you), by @darker-soft-starker

This story probably brings together everything I love best, including Young Tony, High school AU, enemies to friends to lover, slight angst, extremely romantic tension, a touch of drama… *shiver*.

Second position: Under a Violet Rain, by @vaguekiwi

Again, I am seduced by the "enemies to lovers" plot. When love seems absolutely impossible, when everything is set up to make them hate each other, and yet a love still comes. From the first line to the last, it was a pleasure to read this story.

third position: The Pieces I've Lost, by @vaguekiwi and @snowstark

I usually don't like overly pronounced notions of submission and dominance, even more so when the story is riveted on sexual content and sexual degradation. But this story… this story resonates deeply with me. I was interested to see that the dynamics of submission and dominance come from genetics, making people really different from each other from a biological point of view. And all the reasons why I usually don't like these stories, well… those are the reasons why Peter is so different from everyone else in this story. In a way, it reminds me a bit of feminism, and that's why the plot is all the more interesting. And, of course… I want Peter to get a fucking hug.

🥺👉🏻👈🏻 talk with me?

OoOoOo this is a tricky one~~~ 👀👀👀 I am such a hardcore lover of so many fics and writers in our lovely community, and I wish I could list everyone in this response, but I’ll do my best to identify the three starker fics that are my all time favourites at the moment (because darn it- my favourites often change by the day 😅)

(Also, my method here of dubbing each fic my “third” favourite or “second” favourite doesn’t reflect just how much I love all these fics equally. Again, if I could name them all my “first” favourite I would! 😅✨ I’m just going to rank them in terms of how much each fic has impacted me personally and on the depth of their storytelling 💕)

My third favourite:

This is probably the starker fic that I reread the most, as it’s fantastically structured story and moments of simmering tension never cool for me. I am just as heated reading the tail end of chapter two as I ever was reading it for the first time ✨✨ Tony and Peter’s chemistry and sexual tension in this story is so heady and palpable- it makes me feel like I’m experiencing their powerful feelings and desires🥰 (plus all of the food they eat in the beginning sounds soooo delicious 🤤😩)

My second favourite:

Just like you, my friend, I could not ignore @darker-soft-starker’s outstanding work that I have still not stopped gushing about 😅

The multiple comments left on AO3 and original fanart that I’ve created for this incredible story really speaks for itself and I could probably fill the rest of this post with every single thing I adore about the plot, characters and romantic development, but I think in this case I will let the work speak for itself. I implore you: please read this fic if you haven’t already, it’s so much more than I ever imagined a starker fanfic to be and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed with what you find~💖

My first favourite:

Here we have it. My all-time favourite. Arguably the best starker fanfiction ever created. Words fail me when it comes to describing how much this story has influenced me as a storyteller, as a reader and as a member of our little community. If I was ever in doubt that starker wasn’t the pairing for me, this work would draw me back in and remind me just how lucky I am to be able to read art like this - on a beautifully curated fanfiction website - for free. I’ll never get over it, I just love it too much.

The Marvel canon has yet to top these masterpieces ✨

Anywho~ I hope you enjoyed my little ramble 😌 Thank you so much for the ask @lanyakea-universe! I love chatting with you (and any other starkers) about things like this! Maybe one day I’ll be able to finish more than the three fanfics I’ve already posted and impact others on AO3 and tumblr, like these wonderful authors already have for me and so many others 🥰💖💕🌺

[scorchedhearth]

OOOOOO

okey number 10 with kylealex???

thank you for making me think about them :> this was a really cute thing to write, hope you enjoy it

10. I have never been this sick before I'm sorry did I, haha this is so weird, but did I confess my love for you? f- four times? yeah? haha oh

shaking things up

Waking up is akin to digging himself out of wet sand, with a heavy weight blanketing his entire body and the actual feel of sand on his tongue and throat. It takes him a full minute after opening his eyes to notice the ceiling, and another to find the source of the noise that woke him.

“Alex?” He blearily asks, and the blonde pulling open his closet doors turns around to reveal that it is in fact Alex.

“Hey Kyle,” she smiles and walks to his bed, and he tries to sit up but merely moving his head brings a wave of nausea that has him closing his eyes back. “How are you feeling?”

“Like death,” he croaks out and sighs when something cool is pressed against his forehead. Looking up he finds Alex leaning over him, a steady expression on her face, calm but focused.

“Fever’s going down,” she delivers after a moment, and it’s only when the cool sensation is pulled away that he realizes it was her hand. He wants it back as soon as it's gone.

“What-” He tries to say only to be cut off by a coughing fit.

“Sunday night, you slept through the weekend.” Right, that stupid cold he caught walking home under the rain because he missed the last train back to the dorms. “Had me worried for a minute there, pretty face.” And Kyle wouldn’t have noticed those last words if not for her tone. Smug, and teasing. A worrying combination.

It all comes back in flashes, calling her to hang out Friday night, feeling progressively worse, canceling last minute before spending the following days sleeping and coughing and sweating the sickness out. With Alex watching over him, he suddenly realizes, bringing him water and blankets and- Oh no.

“Oh,” He blushes, and that has nothing to do with the fever. “Sorry, I- uh.” He says, stumbling on his words. “I’ve never been sick like this before, it’s-” He swallows and she has no pity on him, staring at him with that smirk of hers, enjoying every second of his torment. “Did I actually..?” he trails off and her smile gets even more dangerous, somehow.

“Declared your love for me? You did, yes.” Kyle covers his face with his hands, trying to will the moment over already. That is infinitely worse than bad pet names.

“I did, didn’t I.” He groans and that too sends spikes of pain through his congested sinuses. It’s better than the humiliation burning his face. Yet he still pushes because it turns out he loves to inflict pain to himself. “And I did it more than once, too.”

“Four times to be exact. You were worried I didn’t hear the first time.” He did, he remembers clinging to her wrists and calling her the love of his life. Doesn’t remember what she said though, and that has him looking at her between his fingers, trying to find anything on her face.

“Oh,” he tries to laugh, but it comes out awkward and forced. Stilted too, with his parched throat and wheezing lungs. “That many?”

“Don’t worry,” she pats his cheek twice. “It was still really romantic when you said I was the peanut butter to your jam.” That bad, uh. Maybe there’s a way to salvage this whole thing, there must be.

“Can we forget this?” He asks clumsily, keeping his hands to himself despite wanting to reach out and bring her hand back to his face. It was so nice and cool against his burning skin, he wants it.

“Not a chance, lover boy!” She laughs, and despite the way it rings uncomfortably in his ears, he can’t bring himself to hate it. “Try again when you’re not bedridden and high on fever and see what happens, alright?” That has him lowering his hands from his eyes.

“Alright.” He drawls and stares at her. It’s hard to understand what’s going on, it’s all going so fast and he’s still trying to keep his eyes from going blurry on him, but she’s not angry with him, no she’s smiling at him and he smiles back, beatific and slow. That’s gotta be a good sign, right?

[capybara-fanatic]

oooooo! i don't really know any of your ocs but

maroon, butterscotch, purple, cream?

i dont have a lot of ocs at the moment i have three and I'm working on the other two, sorting them out, yk

so since theyre still in the works, ill just do this w the one I've had developed for ages now

oh i should definitely probably tell you who he is lmao

basically a few months ago i was thinking, how come there's a north wind (ofc its a toa oc😭) but not a south or west or anything? and so i made Mammatus, the south wind (also supposed to be an ex-member of the order), who was supposed to be in a fic (maybe two or three? idk the concept for it kept changing) i was gonna write but scrapped because i didn't like how i tried to set up the plot. but they control like clouds and lightning and stuff that's the best way to explain it? kinda like zeus in greek mythology but not at all at the same time. they also have cloud hair that was the one idea that stayed consistent throughout their development. Also i killed him at one point. (bells did it, sorry 😭)

anyways thats enough labor time to get to the baby

maroon - what are you most passionate about?

hate to be that one bitch thats like "oh yeah family is so important" and shit like that because i personally cannot stand my parents or my brother, but for mammatus, his siblings (skrael and the other two ocs i was working on) are whats most important, balance be damned. that was also kind of what played into me killing them that one time but we're good now unless i change my mind

butterscotch - is there candy in the world you live in? if so, do you have a favorite one?

they definitely love those granny candies. like those strawberry ones in the wrappers and butterscotch and peppermints and werthers or whatever theyre called. they just love hard candy.

purple - is there magic in your world? if so, describe how it works

okay so theyre an oc from toa, so i figure ill just describe his magic. i didn't rlly elaborate on it before. so basically, he can control the weather (similar to skrael, but he can only really make it snow and hail and the like) mammatus can make it rain, he can make hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.

cream - do you prefer tea, coffee, or cocoa?

definitely tea. theyd rather make it themself, too, because they don't want anyone else touching their drinks. also skrael had a habit of stealing sips while they weren't looking which lead to him getting his own cup whenever they made some.

[sonderwalker]

“I can’t believe you’re still standing” w/ obikin, in the middle of the clone wars anakin is sick at camp with a high fever but when obi-wan gets captured/stuck behind enemy lines he’s the only person able to go and get him?

oooooo this is kinda long! I’ll try my best from these prompts

As much as Anakin hated sand, he was starting to think that he hated the cold even more. He thought he liked it- anything that wasn’t hot and dry he thought he liked more than what he grew up with. But all this planet seemed to offer was cold rain and mud. He couldn’t remember the last time he felt dry or warm. 

He felt a shiver run up his spine, but there wasn’t anything that he could do about it. He was wearing multiple layers and had his cloak on, the hood pulled over his head. His bones ached, and he wanted to do nothing more than head back to the resolute, go into his quarters and not emerge for the next standard day.

But he couldn’t do that. He couldn’t think about anything else than the fact that Obi-Wan was behind enemy lines, captured by Grevious. Wanting to go back and curl up under the covers of his bed was a selfish thought. Obi-Wan was more important than that.

“Are you sure you want to go after General Kenobi on your own?” Rex had asked him before he split ways. And Anakin had reassured him- that it was better that he go alone to get Obi-Wan out while the rest of the men distract Grevious.

His boots squished in the mud as he made his way around the far side of the base. Gross.

Anakin looked up, flinching slightly as cold raindrops his his face. There was an entrance ahead and it looked unguarded.

He leapt up, landing on his feet but quickly dropping down into a crouch, both to remain as inconspicuous as possible, and to try and right himself as a wave of dizziness overcame him.

But Obi-Wan needed him so he straightened back up, inhaling and exhaling slowly. The cold air was a stark contrast to the heat that seemed to be rolling off of Anakin in waves. His body switched from being too warm, and he would pull the hood off of his head, allowing the rain to slide down the back of his neck. And then he would suddenly be too cold, quickly pulling the hood back over his head, clenching his fists and his jaw to try and stop himself from shaking too badly.

He was pretty sure that Rex and Ahsoka noticed anyway, but neither of them said anything to him about it. 

And knowing Ahsoka, she was probably waiting until Anakin admitted that something was wrong so that she could tease him about taking better care of himself. But he couldn’t say that anything was wrong. Maybe he could- he wasn’t really sure.

The guilt mixed in his stomach with the feeling of excitement that always came with seeing Obi-Wan. With being with Obi-Wan. He wanted to be close, but knew that he couldn’t. He wanted to tell Obi-Wan how much he cared, but couldn’t.

He also wanted to get off of this planet as soon as possible, but he couldn’t do that either.

There was a faint warning in the force and Anakin quickly stood up, igniting his blade just in time to deflect several blaster shots that came his way. A group of battle droids were approaching him, but he sliced through them with ease. His blade hissed softly as the raindrops his the plasma and evaporated. He almost didn’t know where his saber was swinging at one point- all of the motions and the blue light seemed to blur together. His mind was muddled, but his muscle memory and the force we guiding him through this.

And they would guide him to Obi-Wan as well.

Anakin kicked a droid arm away from him and turned back to face the door. He sighed again, but it got caught in his throat and he began to cough. He muffled them as well as he could- not wanting to alert anyone else to his presence. He ignored the tight feeling, the heavy ache in favor of pressing ahead and entering the compound.

And although the temperature didn’t really increase, at least it was dry. The separatists base looked like any other- metal walls and bright florescent lights. He kept his hood over his head, not only to hide his face from any cameras, but because the chills were back and he could only focus on so much.

As he progressed through the base, he could hear the sounds of droids marching around, giving orders, and alarms going off in the distance. But all of the sounds seemed to echo and bounce off of the walls, distorting where they were really coming from.

He relied on the force- there wasn’t any immediate threat that he could sense, so he kept going.

But as he approached the cell where Obi-Wan was, there were droids waiting for him. He wasn’t surprised- what had been surprising was the lack of droids that confronted him on his way to get here.

“Freeze, Jedi!” They ordered, pointing their blasters at him. Anakin ignited his saber again, but the light seemed to go in and out of focus.

The droids began to fire at him, and he deflected their shots, doing his best to ignore the pounding in his head and the ringing in his ears. But it was distracting, and one of the shots from the remaining droids grazed his shoulder. He swore, almost dropping his blade before scowling.

The shot seemed to drag him out of his fever-induced haze, and Anakin rushed forward, quickly slicing through the remaining droids, their parts hitting the ground.

“Are you going to stand there all day, or are you going to open the door?” He heard Obi-Wan ask from behind it, and despite the situation, hearing Obi-Wan made him smile.

“I dunno, I thought I’d wait another five minutes.” Anakin replied, warmth rushing through his body. He wasn’t sure if it was because he was blushing or because of something else, but he pushed his hood back off of his face and sighed before opening the door.

“You look horrible.” Obi-Wan pointed out as he walked out of the cell.

“That’s how you’re gonna thank me for saving your skin?” Anakin asked.

“I’m surprised that you made it here in once piece, Anakin.” Obi-Wan replied, his eyes narrowing.

“Thanks.” Anakin muttered as he turned to walk away, trying to ignore the stinging feeling that left in his chest.

“Anakin, wait.” Obi-Wan said as he caught up to him.

“That isn’t what I meant and you know it. I’m worried about you.” 

“I’m fine.” Anakin replied through gritted teeth, looking around a corner to make sure there were no droids before proceeding.

“I can see you shaking.” Obi-Wan deadpanned.

“It’s fine, Obi-Wan.” Anakin huffed, and then bit his lip so hard it bled to try and stop himself from coughing.

But even the pain from doing that wasn’t enough to ground Anakin when a wave of dizziness overcame him. He swayed to the side, leaning against the cold wall of the base and closed his eyes. Things were moving in front of him, someone was saying something to him, but he couldn’t make it out over the roaring in his ears.

Sights blurred together, his vision fading in and out until it faded out for good.

The first thing Anakin noticed when he woke up was that he felt like he had been hit by a speeder. Multiple times. And the second thing that he noticed was that someone was holding his hand. He gently squeezed it, smiling slightly when he heard Obi-Wan speak.

“You didn’t say anything about getting shot.” Obi-Wan whispered as Anakin opened his eyes.

“Wasn’t that important.” Anakin mumbled. keeping his eyes closed.

“And you didn’t say anything about being unwell either, but I was able to assume that based off of your appearance.”

“Getting you was more important.” Anakin replied as he now forced his eyes open. He squinted against the bright lights, but knew where he was.

The medbay, back on the ship.

“How long was I out?” He asked, turning to face Obi-Wan.

“At least an hour, if not longer.” Obi-Wan replied softly.

“You seemed to be fading in and out a lot, so I’m not surprised to see that you don’t remember anything.”

“Oh.” Anakin replied, looking away. Obi-Wan squeezed his hand again, and Anakin looked back up at him.

“Is there anything you need?” Obi-Wan asked softly. “I’d imagine that you’ll be in here for a few days before being released to your quarters.”

“Can you stay? Anakin asked suddenly, instantly regretting it. He felt his face heat up, but he wasn’t sure if Obi-Wan could see that the flush on his face was from that.

“Of course.” Obi-Wan replied with a soft smile, brushing a lock of hair out of Anakin’s face with his other hand.

I totally got carried away, whoops.

[fuchsiagrasshopper]

Falling Together Part I

Author’s Note: After receiving such kind words from Tall Tale, I had another idea that I ran with. There will be a part two, so if you want to be added to the tag list for this as well as future works to come, please let me know. 

Summary: You enter into an arranged marriage with Ivar, a marriage of convenience, but can you both come together to make it more?

Pairing: Ivar x Reader

Word Count: 3137

Warnings: Language, mild angst

"You need to fuck your wife, brother."

Those were the words that came out of Hvitserk's mouth after they had been sitting in silence. How he longed for better advice from Ubbe, but his eldest brother remained back in Kattegat with Torvi. They had parted as equals, peace finally coming to the sons of Ragnar. For Ivar, Kattegat held only pain and misery, so he had taken to the sea with a handful of ships and a map to Ireland, and once again Hvitserk had chosen to remain at his side. He didn't know what inspired such loyalty from his brother, but he was grateful for his company, most days. Today was not one of them.

"Are you listening, Ivar? I said--"

"Yes, I heard you," Ivar interjected before he could repeat himself. "I'm just choosing to ignore your advice."

Hvitserk shrugged as he pulled meat off of a chicken bone with his teeth. "Alright, but you know I'm right. She's going to want someone to warm her bed eventually, and she won't wait around for it to be you."

"Christian women don't like sex," Ivar said with a huff.

"Not the ones I've been with," Hvitserk said, smirking around a mouthful of meat. "They don't like sex with devout Christian men, but we are not such men."

Ivar frowned into his mug of ale as he thought about you. You were his wife in name only, an alliance forged with your father for lands in the first few weeks they had arrived in Ireland. The wedding had been small, in accordance with Viking tradition, not Christian. You weren't as devout as the Saxons of England, but you had insisted on keeping your cross.

There was no love in your marriage. At first you had appeared hopeful if not reluctant to be sharing in this union, but as many moons had passed, you'd begun to realize you were alone in your efforts. Ivar didn't hate you, even if you were a Christian, but he did not want to be in love again, not after Freydis. She was everything he had ever wanted, and she had betrayed him.

"Why the sudden interest in what goes on in my marriage?" Ivar said, setting down his mug as he watched Hvitserk.

"I'm sure King Conall will be starting to wonder about grandchildren soon," said Hvitserk, leaning back in his chair. "And you have a pretty wife. Others have taken notice already, and she might start to consider picking one. Women don't like to be lonely."

Ivar scowled, hating the apprehension his brother's words stirred up. "She is free to take a lover if she wishes." His voice wavered. Even he didn't believe himself.

"You have changed, Ivar, but not enough that I don't believe you wouldn't kill the man she was with."

Hvitserk wasn't wrong. He still lacked self-confidence as far as women were concerned, and he would take it as a personal slight if you humped some lesser warrior in his army. You never voiced any discontent in his presence, and Ivar was sure he would notice any man becoming too enamored with you.

He rose from his throne, a sudden need to get away from the doubts that the turn in conversation had brought up. Hvitserk looked at him with a grin while folding his arms back behind his head.

"Going to take care of your wife?"

"Be silent," Ivar grumbled. "My marriage is a solid alliance. There's nothing that needs fixing."

"If it's as you say, then forget what I said," said Hvitserk, returning his attention to his plate of food.

Ivar growled as he started for his chambers. He hated not getting the last word in, but nothing he could have said would've proven Hvitserk wrong. Truthfully, he knew little about you or how you spent your days. When he was preoccupied with the duties of ruling, you were off amongst the people, though not without a guard. Ivar was surprised that you had taken an active role in being Queen. Freydis never had, nor had his mother. Your father was a great King, and you must have studied under his exemplary tutelage. 

His crutch ticked down the corridor with each slow step, the damp causing his legs to stiffen. Ireland was greener than Norway, but the warmth of the sun would disappear for days behind a wall of grey cloud that brought heavy rain. The long torrents left him miserable with agony, something he fought to conceal from his men.

He leaned on the door as he came into his room, the fire low since the last time it had been tended to by a slave. The bed was empty. This had remained the same since the wedding night. There was a smaller room attached to his main chambers, meant to be used for any future children you birthed. Instead it had become your own personal wing, with no one growing wise to the fact that you slept away from your marital bed.

Ivar slept better alone. The space allowed for him to shift about if the pain became unbearable. Tonight was different. He couldn't keep his eyes from the door to your chamber, even as he eased himself down onto the furs. Reaching for his crutch, he rose again, letting out a low hiss as he forced his body forward. Just one peek would be enough to satisfy him. 

Ivar doubted you'd bring any man to your room, as it meant you'd have to drag them past his bed first. Hvitserk's comments had burrowed into his head however, and he needed to be sure. He eased his way through the door, and took a step into your space for the first time. It was a smaller room, not meant to be used as sleeping quarters for an adult, but you had made it into something personal. There was no hearth for a fire. You kept warm under a pile of furs, twice as thick as he needed. There you slept in the middle of the small bed, unaware as he watched this private moment of solitude.

You didn't appear to be in despair. A ghost of a smile sat on your lips. It was a look Ivar was familiar with, even if he hadn't been on the receiving side of it for some time. At first you had tried to smile for him, all attempts to forge a bond with your new husband. He didn't know when you had stopped trying, but now it was a smile you only reserved for others. You never referred to him by name anymore either. It was always 'My King' or 'My Lord', the latter of which he detested.

He breathed a sigh. This was not how he imagined his life would turn when he set out to new lands. There was still the desire to grow his father's legacy, and thus far his Kingship in Ireland was progressing much better than it had in Kattegat. He had been driven by blind ambition and false beliefs that he was anything other than a crippled mortal. The loss was humbling, and even with his new found success he refused to rest on his laurels. 

Now that his curiosity was satisfied, he pivoted back towards the door to leave. The thin light coming from the fire in his room illuminated the table beside your bed where you kept your cross. There was something else there as well, a small thing that stopped Ivar in his place. It was a hammer of Thor, whittled from wood and tied to a piece of twine. The craftsmanship was poor, but the meaning of it was something else entirely. Someone had gifted it to you, and you had kept it in a place within reach.

He wanted to inspect it further, maybe even take it back to burn it in his hearth, but he wouldn't risk Thor's wrath, or the chance that you could wake up. Hvitserk's warning about you taking a lover came back with a vengeance and had his stomach feeling like it was filled with rocks. He would have to sleep with this knowledge until he could question you about it, a conversation he did not desire to have. How to broach it would be more difficult still, and combined with the pain in his legs, Ivar found no rest that night.

ooOOoo

Ivar was behaving strangely. Your father had come to visit, which meant there was an unspoken agreement between you and your husband to behave cordially. You had done so many times when the situation called for you both to act as united rulers, but the efforts on your husband's part had never felt this...forced. 

During the feast his hand kept pawing for yours beneath the table until you gave up and let him cling to your limp fingers. He was attentive, patient, and even addressed you by name. You concealed your frown as best you could between bites of food. One glance down the table at Hvitserk and you understood that he was perplexed by Ivar's behavior as well. It pleased your father to witness such fondness from your husband towards you, and that had you holding your tongue. You would give your King an earful later.

"Daughter," Your father said, raising his arms to embrace you after you had managed to pry out of Ivar's iron grasp. "You are a smart match together, I am glad you are happy."

"Thank you, father," You whispered into his ear before parting.

"Might I see a grandchild soon?"

You flushed from what looked like embarrassment, but was actually shame. It was a constant hurt inside you, that you had failed to be desirable to your husband.

"Maybe, if we are blessed," You said evenly.

"I'm sure you will be. This is a successful alliance, and I have no doubt your union will be fruitful. We have a son of Ragnar on our side, that is no small thing, but remember you are my daughter, and you will always have a place in my court."

He placed his large hands over your shoulders, as he often did when you were a small child. His cheeks were flushed as red as his beard from drinking, and a merry grin was upon his lips. It had just been you and him for so long, after your mother had passed from sickness a lifetime before. You used to think you could tell your father everything, but now that you were a Queen, your loyalties had shifted to protect your husband and the integrity of your new settlement. 

With your practiced smile and a reassuring hand upon his arm, you eased whatever burdens he felt for giving you away to heathens. "I am well father, and my place is here with my people."

"Then I shall depart, and leave you with your husband."

"Hvitserk," You called, and he stood with uncoordinated abruptness. "Please escort my father and his men to the gates."

He seemed to understand your true intentions, shooting you a nod to confirm. You had grown fond of your brother-in-law in a short time, and had come to see him as someone you could rely on. He had no qualms about answering anything you wanted to know. If you had asked, he would have spilled every secret about Ivar as well, but you had refrained from going down that path. You would rather get the truth from the horse's mouth as it were, and now you were about to be alone with him.

Ivar's eyes did not lose the mischief behind them. They were cold blue, like the winters of his home you thought. But the patient smile you had been rewarded with at dinner had vanished, replaced with something shrewd.

"What are you playing at, husband?" You stressed the word as you steeled your stance against him.

"I'm not sure I understand, (Y/N). It is a husband's duty to dote upon his wife as he sees fit," He remarked while his hands gripped tight to the armrests of his throne.

"You can stop pretending now that we are alone. Lord knows I have," You mumbled the last bit, but Ivar had heard. Maybe you had wanted him to.

"Come sit, and talk with me," He said, indicating to your throne next to his. 

The seriousness of the request left you with little choice, and you gathered up your skirts while keeping your head high as you made your way beside him. There was a constant cloud of anger that seemed to follow your husband wherever he went, but you didn't think he would hurt you. Sometimes when he would look at you, a wave of sadness would fall over his face, and it was as if he was seeing through you to something else.

"What do you wish to speak of, My Lord?"

Ivar winced, but he recovered by bringing his hand down on top of yours. This again. You kept your hand still as he laced your fingers together, the roughness of his palm stroking against your soft one.

"Are you happy here?" He asked, and the hesitation in the question was tangible. 

"Yes. The people are content, and the settlement is thriving."

"That's not what I asked." His tone was curt and to the point. It seemed he wanted to discuss the nature of your marriage, but the timing of it was mysterious to you. "I know the people talk of an heir, as I'm sure your father also mentioned."

"The people will always talk, My Lord. All you have to do is listen and decide what's worth hearing," You said, feeling your fingers start to tingle as his grip held firm. "As for my father, he is as any old King would be. Anticipating a grandchild so that he can pass from this world knowing his blood will live on."

His brow was furrowed into a frown. "When we are alone, call me Ivar."

"Alright...Ivar," You said, sampling the feel of his name on your tongue. You hadn't addressed him as such since your wedding.

"If we had a child, would that make you happy?"

His eyes were downcast as he spoke, which you were glad for, as he didn't see how his words had embarrassed you.

"I never said I was unhappy," You remarked. "And I don't think a child is something we are ready for yet."

"Because we are not in love," He sighed.

"Well, yes and no. I always knew I would marry a stranger with whom I wouldn't be in love. But marriage is a tool to strengthen kingdoms, and spread prosperity to its people. If you have that, you don't need love."

His eyes scrutinized you with something indiscernible, and he let go of your hand. You thought that perhaps your words had hurt him, but you didn't know why. When you had first been brought forth by your father to meet with Ivar, you had thought he was handsome. Perhaps a bit too quick to act in anger, as you had witnessed during the meeting, but you had hoped he was a man you would grow to love. Months later, and you were sleeping in separate beds with your virtue still intact, so it frustrated you to see him be upset by what you had said. 

"Is that why you accept gifts from other men," His tone was harsh, and you thought he hated you then by the dark look in his eyes.

You jumped up from your throne, and rounded on him with fury. This marriage had insulted you long enough. "What are you accusing me of?"

He searched for something just beneath the collar of his tunic, and what he showed you was the hammer pendant of one of his Gods that hung from his neck. "I know you have one. Which man gave it to you? I will not have my reign tarnished by a whore Queen, not again."

Your stomach burned from the insult, and much of what he said you did not understand. His insinuation had stung, and you had little care for finding out about what he meant by 'again'. 

You pulled the small bracelet out of the sleeve of your dress. The twine was too short to be a necklace, but you wore it all the same because it was special to you.

"You mean this I presume. How you came to discover it, I can only assume you have entered my chambers without my consent."

"I'm your husband, and King, I don't need your consent," He shot back.

"Then let me tell you about the man who gifted it to me one day while I walked the market. His name is Einarr, a son of one of your warriors. He is eight years old, not even old enough to have an armring yet."

You took a small bit of satisfaction to see him struggle to retort. Whatever argument and claims he had built up against you in his head disappeared after your explanation. He sunk back in his throne, and you were pleased to see he had the humility to look guilty.

"Then why keep it hidden?"

"It's special to me, proof that even as a foreign Queen to your people, I can be respected. We haven't established a relationship to share such things," You exclaimed, everything that you had been holding back spilling out in an instant. It took a deep breath to calm yourself, to bring you back to the matters at hand. "I think we should stop...for now. Our alliance has thrived by us acting separately, and perhaps that is how it should stay."

"I regret the things I've said," Ivar hurried to say, his voice now thin from weariness. 

It was a small comfort, and you both knew it. "If there is nothing else, My Lord, I should like to retire?"

There was nothing he could have said in that moment that could have kept you there and not made you resentful, so with a wave of his hand, he dismissed you. 

When you were far enough away, you let your shoulders sag, and let out a quiet sigh of defeat. Despite how he had hurt you with his words, neither of you walked away the victor. The hill to surmount in your marriage had just become a mountain, and you weren't certain it could ever be conquered. Judging by the crashing and shouting coming from the Great Hall, Ivar's black mood had returned. Maybe he felt the same. You held the small wooden hammer in your hand all the way back to your chambers, praying to any God that would listen to guide you on your way to mending your marriage before it was too late.

Tag List

@blah-blah-fuckit-shit 

@tgrrose

[my-unmanageable-mischief]

Inexplicable Part 1

Draco Malfoy x Reader x Harry Potter love triangle 

“Friendships in childhood are usually a matter of chance, whereas in adolescence they are most often a matter of choice.”  David Elkind

Chance. Something you can give, and something you can take. Your mother had always told you to give people chances, you never know what may have happened. She taught you to take chances, that if you lived in a bubble of comfort forever you would never grow. She was a good woman. You had given Draco Malfoy many chances over the 11 years you’d known him- you’re whole life. When he’d hurt your feelings as a child, you would cry, and then you would give him another chance. You also took chances with Draco. Small ones, sneaking off your parent’s grounds to go to the park, to big ones; like leaving for Hogwarts together on a cloudy morning on the first of September. 

You stood in the grand entrance to the great hall, freezing from the dramatic boat ride over. Draco stood beside you, lanky and confident. You wished you were as self-assured as him often, wishing you had the same sense of self he possessed. Then he was speaking, and it wasn’t to you but a meeker-looking boy with a messy crop of black hair and crooked glasses. 

“The rumors are true then, Harry Potter has come to Hogwarts,” You looked at the boy. This was the mythical boy who killed the darkest wizard in recent history? He was just a boy, hair damp from the rain outside. You wondered if he felt as young as he looked. “I’m Draco Malfoy,” Draco extended his hand, and you watched curiously. The boy eyes the hand suspiciously and Draco continued, not faltering, “I trust you wish to be in Slytherin? The best house.” Harry’s eyes narrowed and your lips turned downwards slightly. He was being a git. The tall redheaded boy beside Harry snorted behind his hand and Draco turned to him, eyes biting. “Well, no question on who you are? Red hair, hand me down robes? Obviously a Weasley,” 

“Draco,” You spoke before either of the other boys could react, his head turned to you as if remembering you were there. You held his gaze, shaking your head at him, he merely smirked. 

“My friend here might have better social graces than I, but let me give you a word of advice Potter, There are some wizards worth your time, and some who are not, best associate yourself with the right sort,” Draco puffed his own chest out proudly, and you rolled your eyes at the display, chancing a glance at the Weasley boy and Potter, who both seemed as put off as you felt. Draco extended his hand again; Harry ignored it. 

“I think I can tell the right sort for myself, thanks,” Draco scoffed, glaring down at the boy, and he didn’t look so meek anymore. He held Draco’s gaze with his own steady one, the boys had a silent exchange before Draco huffed and turned, taking your arm and dragging you with him. 

“You didn’t need to do that.” You spoke as you allowed him to guide you away to wait in a different area- away from the boy who lived. 

“Oh don’t tell me you’re cross at me now,” He rolled his eyes, and you crossed your arms, shaking your head. 

“No, I’m just saying-”

“Students! Follow me!” A voice rang out clear above the chatter, and it immediately died down. The large group formed two organized lines and followed the stern professor into the great hall, the first time any of you had seen it. Magical. It felt cliché, and obvious, but that was the only word you could muster. Candles hung in the sky, twinkling and flickering like the stars that were above them. The ceiling swirled with the harsh weather outside, but in the great hall, it was warm and cozy. Four long tables were headed by another large table, all five full. Ghosts milled about the room and banners hung from the ceiling proudly. Each table donning its own crest, and the staff table displaying the Hogwarts crest. 

“Wow,” You found yourself whispering, Draco silently nodding beside you. For a moment your past annoyance with him was gone, replaced solely by awe. Names began being called, no particular order, keeping the waiting students on their toes. Every time a student was sorted their new house would cheer excitedly for their addition. You watched the Weasley boy, whose first name was Ron, get sorted into Gryffindor, him grinning proudly. 

“Draco Malfoy,” Finally his name was called, and he looked at you with a wide smirk on his lips, you smiled back nodding your head encouragingly. The hair barely grazed his head before it shouted Slytherin to the group, the table to the far right clapping happily. Draco met your eye and nodded once more before going to join the table. A few names passed and Harry Potter was called. There was a decent pause as the hat sat on his head, and everyone waited. Finally, it shouted Gryffindor, and you weren’t surprised. The house of the brave. Directly after Harry was called, your name rang out, making you tense. You nodded, this time to yourself, and went up, sitting on the stool. The hat came down over your eyes, and you chanted to yourself silently. 

‘Slytherin, Slytherin, Slytherin,’ 

‘Slytherin aye? Let me see let me see, possible, but not what I would have chosen,’

‘What?’ Your eyes opened inside the hat, and you were met with darkness, it talked? 

‘No no, so much potential elsewhere, I would much rather prefer Gryffindor,’

‘Gryffindor?’ You felt yourself panicking, hands clenching and unclenching, ‘No, no,’

‘No? Are you sure?’

‘I’m, no, I don’t know, my friends’ Your mother’s voice sounded in your ear nearly as clearly as the caps. Telling you to take a chance. To give it a chance. To be brave. Brave. 

‘If you’re sure-’

‘Wait!’ Silence for a moment, your thoughts were whirling, finally, the hat spoke again. 

‘That’s what I thought. Better be-’

“Gryffindor!” You felt sick as the hat was lifted from your head. Your vision was blurry and the sudden plunging into the light made your head spin, you looked towards the table on the far right, and saw Draco. He looked at you like he had never truly seen you before. His face was open, shocked, and then it closed, and he sneered. You got off the stool, your legs leading you to the table to the far right. It felt symbolic and ironic, and you hated it. You sat down across from a girl with bushy brown hair and smiled nervously, she smiled back. You were a Gryffindor. Merlin, what would your father think? 

Negative thoughts and all your worries were pushed away when the table in front of you was suddenly brimming with food. Anything you would hope to eat appeared and everyone around you tucked in happily. Two boys who looked identical to each other and incredibly similar to Ron were entertaining the first years with wild stories of the castle, and you found yourself hanging onto every word. 

“Oooooo yes, the forbidden forest-”

“How could we forget-”

“Never go there little firsties-”

“Unless you wish to perish!” You grinned, shaking your head and laughing. One of them saw and pointed towards you.

“Ah! She laughs!” You smirked, rolling your eyes good-natured. 

“It’s just a forest, next to a school, how dangerous can it be?”

“I head there are centaurs there, and they’ll tie you to trees and eat you,” Ron replied eyes wide and head bobbing eagerly, you scoffed. 

“Centaurs don’t eat people, Ron,” You assured, “But they might string you up,” Ron’s eyes widened even further and both twins let out a bark of laughter at your words. One reached part Ron and Harry and offered you their hand.

“I’m Fred, this is George,” He motioned to his twin. 

“Y/N,” You took the hand, smiling back.

“You were with Malfoy,” Harry commented, eyeing you slightly, you felt heat rise to your face, and you nodded slightly. 

“I was,” 

“Are you guys mates?” Ron asked around a mouth full of food. You glanced across the room to the boy in question. He was already looking at you, and when you caught his eye he glared and looked away quickly, you frowned. 

“We were.” 

Back in your common room that night you found all your belongings sitting nearly at the edge of a four-poster bed. The girl from dinner, Hermione, as you learned, was directly next to you. 

“It’s wonderful isn’t it?” She asked excitedly and you smiled, nodding as you searched for a pair of pajamas. 

“Yes, it’s great to finally be here.” You agreed, and she bounced slightly on her bed, bubbling over with joy. 

“How long have you known you were a witch?” You faltered, looking at the girl. 

“I’ve always known,” She looked at you with wide eyes before grinning.

“You have to tell me everything! I have so much to catch up on, I need to find the library tomorrow and get some books, do you want to come?” 

“Are you... muggle-born?” You asked, surprised. You had never met anyone before who was actually muggle-born. Not only that, but you thought you would be able to tell. 

“That’s non-magic born, right? I am.” You nodded slowly, finally finding a pair of sleep pants and a t-shirt towards the bottom of your trunk. You went to your bed, one hand on your curtains, she was looking at you expectantly. You smiled. 

“Sure, we can find the library after lessons tomorrow,” 

“Wonderful,”

“Goodnight Hermione,”

“Goodnight, Y/N!” With that, you pulled your curtains shut tight. You changed quickly and climbed into bed before locating your journal and quill in the nightstand beside your bed. You tried to write everything you felt all day. The excitement, the fear, the disappointment, and the excitement again. When you had put down all your words you replaced the book and pulled your duvet down, sliding in. For a while you stared at the ceiling, unable to sleep. You were thinking about Draco. He couldn’t possibly stay mad at you forever, could he? You’d need to find him and talk to him sometime soon. Eventually, you drifted off, ready to start your new life at Hogwarts the following morning. Ready to take a chance.

[b00t-s]

We're all gossip-y bitches sometimes

this is part two

Janus xey/xem

Roman she/he

Patton he/him

Virgil he/him

See the character intros for more info

TW. Swearing, arguments, alcohol, drunk characters, the word v//mit is used once, characters being characters, past trauma mentioned, tiny tiny tiny sprinkle of angst but just a passing of it at end, and nothing to intense

Again, tell me if I'm being insensitive. Shout at me if I am.

Summary: Patton goes to talk to Janus about Roman. The group opens...'some' bottles. Virgil adds on some...interesting opinions.

Events occur few hours after this.

Janus just finished xeir nightly shift when Patton came bounding up to xem. Janus raised an eyebrow at how ecstatic he looked.

"Yes?" Xey managed out, forcing back the hundreds of snarky comments xey could of said right then.

"Can you hang out at My house later?" Patton practically beamed out.

"why would I want to 'hang out'? It's just a social construct created to give people a higher sense of being." Janus remarked, flipping to closed/open side to closed.

"So you'll be there?"

"hmm. Will doom-and-gloom be there?

"doom and---ohhh, Virge. Yeah, probably," Patton realised now that this was a bad mix of people to invite "probably-probably not for long though!"

"Fine" Janus replied, taking off xeir apron. Xey ignored the obvious lie. "I'll be there in an hour." Xey knew one way or another xey would end up there due to Patton's... effective persuading.

"Great!" Patton exclaimed "oh yeah, and...um...it's raining outside so..take my umbrella, kay?"

His tone more serious all of a sudden, Patton nodded to Janus' heavily made up face, so well done an ignorant bystander wouldn't of noticed the thick layers of foundation on xeir face.

Patton handed xem a translucent umbrella, patterned with cute frogs and flowers, to Janus. Ignoring the distasteful cartoons, Janus nodded and took the umbrella.

"See you soon, Jan!" Patton cheerily waved as he bounced off.

Janus folded xeir apron, opened Patton's umbrella and braved the outdoors.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Janus arrived at Patton's house exactly on time, bone dry, despite the heavily flowing rain. Patton expected nothing less of his friend. He invited xem inside, amazed as always by his friend's everyday fashion.

Jan was wearing a casual yellow shirt over a long sleeved black shirt. Fishnet gloves adorned xeir hands, and xeir ruffled hair was let lose.

Xeir fashionably messy hair was topped with a neatly placed black fedora, which of xey never took off. Xey even scarred persuaded Thomas to let xem wear it to work.

Patton offered xem a smile, and walked xem upstairs. "Hi Jan!" He grinned.

"Hello" xey replied mundanely.

Xey absent-mindedly glanced at Patton's outfit, which contained a violet cashmere sweater, bell bottomed jeans, circular silver glasses and a sunflower clip in his perfect curls.

It was a good look, xey had to admit.

When they both reached Patton's room, Janus stood still, taking in xeir surroundings.

Patton's room was covered with things from the 2000's; Tamagotchi's, stickers pressed up against the pastel wall, stuffed animals, wristbands, old CD's, care bears posters and butterfly clips littering the floor in a deadly trap.

A trans flag was pinned above the single bed with blue tack, right next to some inspirational and motivational quotes.

The whole place looked like it had been puked on by unicorns.

It hurt Janus' eyes.

Xey was a little overwhelmed by all the spiraling colours and nostalgia-inducing objects, so xey sat cross-legged in the middle of the pink carpet. The world slowed down.

Janus wondered, not for the first time, how a 29 year old could be this cheerful.

.

Or appear this cheerful.

"Jan?"

Janus gave a small twitch of xeir head, realising that xey had spaced out. "Hmm?" Xey replied.

"Hey, you were up with the clouds! I was just saying, I think Virge is here" Patton chirped.

"oh"

"he...might be staying for a little longer then i said"

"How wonderful." Janus muttered, knowing this would happen but hating it anyway.

"oh, don't be like that! I'm sure you guys could become friends!" Janus snorted. "Or...at least not kill at each other whenever you're in the same general area" Patton corrected.

"Anyway! I'm going to greet him at the door!" He suddenly proclaimed, skipping downstairs.

Janus was disgusted at how naïve this man was.

But that was a lie.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Patton slowed his happy skip to a casual walk. His grin slipped into a content smile as he reached the end of the stairs. Being so happy takes its toll on people, he thought. Soft tapping of the door interrupted his thoughts as he opened the door to reveal Virgil.

The first thing you notice about this man was his unfair tall-ness. He nearly had to duck to get inside; being too skinny didn't help. Virgil was wearing a plain black hoodie over a mcr top, completing the look with a short, pleated skirt and docs. His face was slathered in white foundation, accompanied with dark eyeshadow under his eyes.

"Virge!! I'm glad you could make it, even if you are late!!Again!" Patton hugged his friend, genuinely glad for his presence. The taller man patted Patton's curls awkwardly.

"Heyyyy Pat-" Virgil did the awkward pats on the back everyone does when they want to get out of a hug but don't want to say it in fear of hurting ones feelings. "Traffic-"

Patton withdrew from the hug and smiled. "okay! at least you're here safe! Can't control the traffic"

"Janus is waiting for us upstairs" Patton continued. He hurriedly carried on speaking before Virgil could spit out an insult about xem "say, you know what I hate about stairs? They're always up to something!" Patton laughed at his own joke, whilst Virgil pretended to face-palm, hiding a snigger.

"Alright, Alright dAd, didn't you say snake face was waiting for us?" Virgil mocked. Patton chuckled uncomfortably at the nickname, but nodded nonetheless.

"Yeah, we shouldn't leave xem waiting"

They both entered his room, having walked the short journey there in a comfortable silence. Patton noted Janus had not moved from were he left xem; xey had just shifted to read a book xey most likely found lying around. Janus looked up upon their arrival, xeir face immediately twisting into a mocking grimace upon seeing Virgil. "ah, you brought the racoon"

"Janus play nice--"

"you're one to talk, you participated in 2012 Tumblr" Virgil threw back

"must you be so wounding" Janus dramatically threw xeir hand against xeir forehead.

"okAY, that's enough guys." Patton firmly said. Janus pulled a face in reply, and Virgil returned the favour. Patton sighed. He just wanted them to get along, which was probably a high expectation by itself.

Perhaps he had booze leftover somewhere.

--------------------------------

Twelve near fist fights, two crying sessions and many, many, many bottles of alcohol later, it was nearing eleven pm and the group was drunker than a litter of catnip high kittens.

They all crowded into a close-knit circle on the bed, nearly falling off but not caring.

"ssso your telling me that flashy asss hhimbo sssssaid I wasss hot but then rude and that I wore too muchh makeup? What a *hic* bitchh" Janus hissed.

Patton giggled. "yeeeeee, be nice though! She was kindaaaa alllllllll over the place!" Patton continued bluntly, "But how would you feel if I set you guys up????~"

"oh pleassssse do, I would just love that" Janus may be trashed but xey still knew sarcasm. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending who you are, Patton did not.

"yayyy! This is gonna be great!!"

Virgil butted in then, waving around the bottle he was holding "hold on, just holllld on a minute there, you're planning to set up that" he vaugly gestured in Janus' direction "with Princy??? Xey've known her for what, 4 minutes? Life isn't a disney movie"

"Dare I detect a hint of jealousy there emo?" Janus purred "am I that lovable?" Xey hiccuped.

"ooooooooh" Patton leaned into the circle, loving the drunk drama.

"wouldn't you like to know weather boy" Virgil droned back, finishing off the bottle.

"Honey, I would dare ssay that was a yesss"

"nO"

"oooooo, you liiiiike meeeEe"

"you disgust me"

"kinky"

Patton shook his hands excitingly at them, nearly hitting Virgil, causing them to shut up. "I can't believe you're finally open to a relationship after what happened! With my best friend no least! Boy did I try to get you to go on more dat--" Patton suddenly clasped his hands over his mouth as if he just said something nasty.

.

.

Everyone went silent. Janus stared at Patron, xeir mouth slightly parted. Virgil laughed nervously to try and break the tension. It sounded strained.

Janus began to speak to stop Patton from starting to spout drunken apologies. "Well thatssss jusst a liee, I've dated pleeenty of people over..well...that...period..of time."

Everyone went silent again, not quite sure on what to say.

Virgil's anxiety was heightening due to the social awkwardness and the influence of the alcohol.

Patton was fidgeting in his lap.

It was Janus yet again who broke the uncomfortable atmosphere.

"Sssso, *hic* you ssaid you wanted me to go out with thisss idiot?"

----------------------------------

first-previous-next

updated masterpost

tag list: @arrowthenon-binaryroyalty, @spellingwillbethedeathofme,

ask if you want to be added or removed from tag list

and we meet our boi virgil

context is for losers

i could of probably cut out unnecessary things in that but y'know I'm new and I like it

these posts will be in chronological order, unless flashback, but it's not following a set-in-stone story line, so asks are, yet again, much appreciated.

I procrastinated too much during the making of this

[ladylillianrose]

Damn right you should be embarrassed Selin! Walking out that door was the smartest thing you've done!

Thank god she finally knows the truth!

As much as it hurts him that she's in pain and furious with him, she's right.

He knew telling her the truth would lead to something like this. 😢😢

Go Eda, go after the man responsible for this mess!

*side note* Damn that is a 🔥🔥🥵🥵 jacket (I have a weakness for men in jackets) and the jeans 🥵🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥 Don't get me wrong I love the suits, but mmmm there is just something about a well fitting pair of jeans!

Damn straight he isn't responsible for his father's actions! Make him see that Aydan!

Ugh it hurts Serkan so much to see her in this much pain 😢😢😢

He doesn't deserve forgiveness Eda, don't try and ease Alptekin's guilt.

Ugh the thunder and rain as both their hearts break, perfection!

Yes girl time is exactly what Eda needs, she needs the support and love from them.❤❤

Lmao at Fifi being Ayfer's favorite and Melo being offended🤣🤣

Aydan speaking the truth, and being supportive of both Serkan and Eda 😭😭🥰🥰

Serkan is not pulling his punches with Alptekin and I am 100% here for it!

Yaaaas Serkan finally laying into Selin too!! OMG I literally gasped when he told her they are not friends! *standing ovation* It took him long enough but he finally said what needed to be said all along to her!

Of course Seyfi is on Eda's side, he's always been.

I love that despite all their issues Aydan and Ayder are friends, they're hilarious together and they're good for each other.

Melo still wanting Eda and Serkan together and believing in true love🥰🥰😭😭

The fact that Alptekin just gives up so easily and walks out the door proves he is not worthy of Aydan or Serkan!🤬🤬🤬🤬

The fact that Serkan sleeps on the opposite side, because Eda sleeps on the right side. 😭😭😭

Poor Serkan, a week long inside being depressed 😭😭😭

Random Selin haircare commercial 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Bless Leila's heart she's so loyal to Serkan, I love her!!!

WTF Selin? You don't want him to be happy while you're unhappy? Was he not fucking clear enough? He doesn't want you, he has never wanted you, and your behavior has made it impossible to even be friends.🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬 You've now officially entered psycho ex territory.

Even Piril is wary of what you are saying!

If it didnt work with you it shouldn't work with Eda? Narcissistic bitch!Serkan and Eda are going to need file some restraining orders!

Seyfi and Aydan are all of us fans 🤣🤣🤣

Lmao Piril and Engin need some popcorn if they're going to watch the Eda/Serkan meeting.

Ugh the way he looks at her🥺🥺🥺🥺

The fact that he signs it without reading it because he trusts and loves her so!😭😭😭😭

Making him take off the ring that he hasn't taken off since the engagement😭😭😭😭😭 Very cruel Eda.

She's going to trust and like you even less Efe since you're setting her up for a meeting with her grandmother....🤬🤬🤬

I love Leila and Serkan's relationship!🥰🥰

Don't get any ideas Selin, they are only temporarily off their fingers!

Are you fucking kidding me Selin? Way to burn all your bridges and show your true colors🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

Lmao at Engin and Piril's reaction to Serkan signing Eda's contract without reading it!🤣🤣🤣🤣

Those rings are going to constantly be in his pocket🥺🥺🥺😭😭😭

Oh Serkan, don't worry your mom will do everything short of locking you two in a closet (because of Eda's claustrophobia) to make sure you end up together!

I'm curious as to what Eda's punishments for Serkan are😉😉😉😈😈😈

Damn Ferit's aunt just won some points for that take down of Selin

Seyfi and Melo spilling the tea! Give us more of them together!!😍😍😍

Serkan sweetie you are too obvious with your ploys!🤣🤣

Lmao Leila trying to be sneaky by putting the paperclip on the wrong side as a way to signal and talk to Serkan 🤣🤣🤣 007 she is not, but I love her!

"The whole situation is here now"🤣🤣🤣🤣 Their whole interaction is gold!

Lmao Engin no one ever wants Erdem 🤣🤣

I don't know how much more of Selin I can take!🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

Omg Serkan slipping her ring into her pocket 🥺🥺🥺🥺😍���😍😍

The look on his face when he asks what happens if he intentionally violates the contract🥵🥵🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥 That smirk *swoons*, he's already thinking of the best ways to tease her!

And Eda can tell because of that slight hitch in her breath

I knew he'd have to apologize to Erdem 🤣🤣🤣

Eda looking like she just got the world's best gift!🤣🤣🤣

Serkan's face, throughout this whole scene 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I almost woke my husband up laughing. I'm crying! His hand during the hug 🤣🤣🤣🤣

I love Eda's idea for the school desks ❤❤❤

And as always Serkan is in awe and impressed by Eda🥺🥺🥺🥺

Not so unaffected by him are you Eda?

Melo working for Engin🥰🥰🥰🥰 Yes let's get all of the pro EdSer people together!!

Selin deserves to be miserable🤬🤬🤬🤬

Whenever he scoops her up *swoon*🔥🔥🔥

Serkan always wants to take her to the doctor because he cares so much, and even Eda knows.

"You were always there for me. This time I'll be there for you."😭😭😭🥺th🥺🥺

I'm so glad Ayfer has Fifi to help her with the business stuff.

Ferit you messed up, not as bad as Selin but still pretty bad.

Eda needed to have that moment and I'm glad she did, hopefully it helps her heal.

Serkan desperately wanting to hold her while she cries, and Eda wanting him to hold her.

Oh Ayfer you don't know how much worse these women are than Aydan.

Oh Ferit, you are helping for the right reason, but also hoping that Ceren will hear about it.

Um Selin your job is literally to do PR, which is all about image!!

Lmao Leila saying she would definitely leave Erdem if he got fired and had no money.🤣🤣🤣

Fifi watching the video of Eda and Serkan and even she can't deny how much he loves her.

Eda finding the ring and smiling❤❤❤

Seyfi assuring Aydan that she has him at least🥰🥰

No Selin you won't do anything, big difference!

Ayfer is so happy to be cooking, doing something she loves!🥰🥰

Yaaass Sirius is there to see his Mama!!!

Ugh he just loves and cares about her so much😭😭😭😭

Go meet them in the park Eda! Do not let your 4 legged son down!!

Oh Efe you are going to be the next to face Eda's wrath!

Serkan always giving Eda rides, because he wants to make sure she is safe.

Fuck you Alptekin, as if we needed more reasons to hate you.🤬🤬🤬

Lmao Fifi and Ferit's interaction.

"There is nothing that I would not do for you,"😭😭😭😭😍😍😍😍🥺🥺🥺

Serkan is not sorry to see you go Efe and neither am I!

Serkan watching and being so proud of Eda during her speech, and giving him hope🥺🥺🥺

That look in the mirror🥰🥰🥰

The passing of the ring 🤣, this will continue until it's back on her finger, where it belongs!

At least Ferit knows he messed up.

Melo refusing to give in to Ayfer's hypnotism 🤣🤣🤣

You know Melo is right Ceren! Ferit messed up, and much like Serkan he is trying to make up for his mistakes!

Oh Eda don't write it now, Ayfer will show up and make a scene!!

You know he is right Eda! You shouldn't be so rithless.

So many Pride and Prejudice parallels with Serkan and Ferit doing it only for the women they love.

Aydan knowing Serkan can't say no to Eda🤣🤣🤣

Uh Eda you need to come up with the $$$ and fast!!🤣🤣

Seyfi you've been working for Aydan for so long that you still question her schemes?

Yaaas Serkan with the grand scheme!! You know you need to go to dinner with him!!

At least we know where Serkan gets his subtlety from 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

Tell me Serkan is going to also buy this dress because it is only worthy of Eda!!

You will stumble and fall if Serkan looks you in the eyes?😍😍😍😍

Of course he'll be there to catch you, he always does😭😭😭😭😭

The fact that Piril thinks Selin is being ridiculous says something.

You don't think you deserve Eda's scorn Selin? Are you really that stupid?🙄🙄🤬🤬

Damn Fifi and Melo🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Engine's face when he sees Piril😍😍😍😍😍

Oooooo Ferit you know you're gone!

Serkan can't breathe watching Eda🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍😍😍

Seriously Selin? I'm so beyond done with this crazy woman!!🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

Do more stuff like this then Serkan, its good for you and everyone ekse.

Just drive her to the restaurant with you, that will guarantee that she is there with you!

I'm going to murder Selin because you know Eda wants to go!!🤬🤬🤬

Aydan showing no mercy to Alptekin! He deserves every inch of her scorn!🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

Nooooooo!!!! Of course she goes to the one Selin put in the envelope!!😭😭😭😭🤬🤬🤬🤬

They had better talk to one another about this misunderstanding!!!!

Call him!!! He would never stand you up Eda!!!!😢😢😢😢😢

Ugh my heart hurts for them!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

Throw some water on Selin and see if she melts that witch!!

[kvndeathmusic]

my favorite records of the 2010s pt 1 (the less great stuff/honorable mentions)

Neither this post or its followup are going to be in any particular order, however all the records I talk about here are, in my opinion, not as good as the records i will talk about in my part 2. they’re all fantastic but these ones slightly a little less fantastic than the ones in my “top 10″. none of this is based on stuff like 'influence' or whatever other critics base their lists on, this is solely how much I enjoyed these records. And keep in mind, I'm only human, I havent listened to a good lot of records I've heard others describe as top 10 worthy, these are just records I found and that I resonate with. long post ahead. 

Vacation - Bomb the Music Industry (2011)

If you asked me what my favorite band is i will either say bomb the music industry or jeff rosenstock, but considering those are pretty much the same things it doesnt matter lol. While Vacation isnt a perfect record, it is one I love. It lacks some of the ska elements that I love about earlier BTMI records, but at the same time, it is the first record where Jeff’s “””solo””” career sound starts to form in tracks like Sick, Later, Hurricane Waves, Everybody That You Love, Everybody That Loves You, and Vocal Coach. And these tracks are all fantastic, especially the absolutely explosive opener Campaign For a Better Weekend. Where this album suffers in my mind is the fact that it exists as a weird hybrid middle ground between BTMI and modern Jeff Rosenstock, it isn’t really ska like old BTMI and it’s not quite to the same standard as the tracks on We Cool?. And some of the songs are just, not as good as the others, like Why, Oh Why, Oh Why (Oh Oh Oh Oh), which is washed out almost entirely in reverb, and tracks like Savers feeling barren and missing additional instrumentation. But fuck man I can not dislike this record or just call it “ok” because despite this I still listen to this record a lot, it’s so catchy and fun and Im a bit too chronically addicted to btmi. 

Reflektor - Arcade Fire (2013)

i dont really get the hate/mixed feelings others have with this record. there’s so many good tracks dude!!!! sure theres a bit of a slump in the middle and it doesnt reach the same emotional heights as their previous records you gotta be ignorant to overlook this records strengths. while i do like The Suburbs more than Reflektor, man i just vibe HARD with some of these tracks; the title track, We Exist, Here Comes The Night Time, Normal Person, Awful Sound (Oh Eurydice), Porno, and ESPECIALLY Afterlife. Plus the cover art is cool and I like it. However Flashbulb Eyes is one of the worst tracks Arcade Fire has ever put out and I hate it immensely. And while far less offensive, tracks like You Already Know, It’s Never Over (Hey Orpheus), and Joan of Arc are just kinda boring and/or uninteresting. Now granted, I'm extremely biased when it comes to Arcade fire in general unless were talking about the trainwreck that is Everything Now. I started listening to Arcade Fire just before Reflektor came out, and I have a kinda sentimental attachment to the record. ill explain the feeling more when i talk about The Suburbs. anticipation oooooo.

good kid m.A.A.d city - Kendrick Lamar (2012)

i might get crucified by some for not putting this in my top 10, but whatever come at me i guess. gkmc is a fantastic record, but i do think the ending is weak, which is why it’s here instead of in the top 10. i mean, let’s be real, Real is a mediocre track, and while Dying of Thirst is an important track to the whole narrative of the record, it feels way too long. almost everything else about this record is fantastic, from the beats, to kendrick’s nasally flows, to the overall structure of the record spinning a tale of a young man battling demons both inside and out, and his eventual redemption. even if i find this record at times to drop pace, it really is flawless otherwise. it felt like a disservice to put this in the 20-10s, bc it’s a good record, but i had to make some compromises and this was one of them. 

RTJ2 - Run The Jewels (2014)

el-p and killer mike are a perfect duo, and the tracks they make together are always total bangers. and for me, RTJ2 is the best overall, with RTJ3 in a close second. it’s hard to put this on the lower half of the list, some of the tracks just don’t work as well as the others, but despite that there’s not really any tracks i hate or dislike on this record, minus maybe crown. the pure aggression in the opening track Jeopardy sets the tone for an aggressive yet highly focused record. This is some of the best rap out there right now if you want some music to fuck shit up to. 

Pure Comedy - Father John Misty (2017)

This record is both hilarious and extremely bleak. Josh Tillman is a master of satire and sarcasm, and Pure Comedy is the peak of his songwriting skills. The title track is one of the best tracks of the decade, period. And he keeps up the momentum on the following few tracks. The main problem with this record is its weaker second half, but even then it’s criminal to suggest that those songs aren’t good regardless. And despite the bleakness, the one line that sticks in my head after all this time is the line this album fades out to: There’s nothing to fear.

Knife Man - AJJ (2011)

Continuing on the trend of folky, satirical, and bleak records, Knife Man is AJJ’s defining record (next to their debut LP). AJJ blends loud, punky anthems with quieter, folk tracks that touch on sensitive issues in a way only AJJ manages to get away with. And there’s some genuine heart mixed in as well, with the final track Big Bird always striking a chord with me. However, I do feel the record is, let’s just say, padded at times in my opinion. Still, I can’t deny how much i enjoy tracks like Gift of the Magi 2, Hate Rain on Me, The Distance, and Skate Park. Speaking of which when I saw AJJ live recently they played none of those songs and that kinda sucked but hey it was like $20 I can’t complain. And speaking of not getting what I wanted...

You Won’t Get What You Want - Daughters (2018)

It was hard choosing between this record and their 2010 self titled record, but in terms of the overall narrative and variety this record shines through. If there was a number 11 spot in this unorganized list this would probably take that spot. It’s noisey, it’s abrasive, and it’s like nothing you’ve heard before unless you’ve listened to Daughter’s previous records. Tracks like The Reason They Hate Me are catchy in the weirdest and most unwelcoming of ways, Less Sex sounds like a long lost Trent Reznor NIN track, and Guest House is a masochistic and gut wrenching finisher. Fantastic record aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

We Cool? - Jeff Rosenstock (2015)

It’s obvious that I had to include this record somewhere on these list. It’s like a more refined version of the sounds that Jeff experimented with on Vacation. Definitely more punk than ska, but still some of those roots still shine through, especially in the track Nausea. Some of Jeff’s best songs are on this record, from the loud opening tracks Get Old Forever and You, In Weird Cities, to tracks dripping with bittersweet and moody lyrics like I’m Serious, I’m Sorry and Polar Bear or Africa. The main reason this record is on the back end of the top 20 is because the deeper cuts on the record do not match the energy and heights of the best tracks. Tracks like All Blissed Out, The Lows, Darkness Records and Beers Again Alone don’t feel like they belong and stick out a bit. They remind me more of the material Jeff put out on his 2012 EP I Look Like Shit. Mind you they aren’t bad tracks, but I’ll be honest I skip them often when listening to the record because i just wanna get back to the good good stuff. 

Sports - Modern Baseball (2012)

Sports is one of the best pop punk records ever, if you can even consider it as such. It’s like a blend of emo and folk punk, and it works so well. A good majority of this record is on my main shuffle playlist. Is it pushing boundaries? Not really, but tracks like Re-Do, Tears Over Beers, and See Ya, Sucker are undeniably catchy and memorable. I NEED MODERN BASEBALL BACK TOGETHER RN. There’s not really anything that wrong with the record, besides maybe lacking in variety, but at 30 minutes, it’s a record that feels nostalgic even on a first listen, and continues to feel that way even after numerous re-listens. Speaking of nostalgia...

The Suburbs - Arcade Fire (2010)

Some background, when I was 13 (circa 2013), I only really listened to whatever my parents put on for me. From my mom, I “inherited” a taste for classic pop and 80s new wave. From my dad, I got metal and hard rock. The first time I made the conscious decision to listen to a record fully, based on my own curiousity, was when I sat and listened to Sgt. Pepper in the summer of 2013, which broadened the scope of what I thought music could even be. And later that year, the first band I got into after The Beatles? Arcade Fire. When I think of my early teens, the memories are set to this record. I remember listening to Ready to Start in my brother’s old hot ass car while driving to the local fair with some friends on a chill fall night, eating tons of junk and staying up past midnight back when doing that was edgy and cool and not a symptom of my depression. 

If I was judging this record solely by its best tracks, it would easily be in the top 3. But I couldn’t place it in my top 10 because, frankly, some of the deeper cuts are lacking. I can’t say I like Deep Blue. I really don’t like Rococo. And Half Light I kills the pace of the record. But man, that title track, Ready to Start, Modern Man, Empty Room, Half Light II, Sprawl II... these songs defined my early teen years. I still tear up listening to the title track. Sure I have to skip a few songs when I re-listen, but I can’t place it any lower or my heart will break. It existing outside of the top 10 already hurts. And that’s all that’s left now. The top 10. 

But first, some random honorable mentions that didn’t make this list:

Sound & Color - Alabama Shakes

Black Star - David Bowie

Saturation II - BROCKHAMPTON

Melophobia - Cage the Elephant

Teens of Style - Car Seat Headrest

How to Leave Town - Car Seat Headrest

Daughters - Daughters

Sunbather - Deafheaven

Bottomless Pit - Death Grips

Year of the Snitch - Death Grips (should be on this list tbh)

Doris - Earl Sweatshirt

I Love You, Honeybear - Father John Misty

Helplessness Blues - Fleet Foxes

Plastic Beach - Gorillaz

Boarding House Reach - Jack White

POST- - Jeff Rosenstock

S/T - Joyce Manor

Firepower - Judas Priest

ye - Kanye West

KIDS SEE GHOSTS - KSG

You Were There - Kill Lincoln

Flying Microtonal Banana - King Gizzard

Infest The Rats’ Nest - King Gizzard

No New World - Mass of the Fermenting Dregs

Bury Me At Makeout Creek - Mitski

Puberty 2 - Mitski

Unsilent Death - Nails

Itekoma Hits - Otoboke Beaver

Morbid Stuff - PUP

A Moon Shaped Pool - Radiohead

RTJ3 - Run the Jewels

Angles - The Strokes

To Be Kind - Swans

Undertale OST - Toby Fox

Scum Fuck Flower Boy - Tyler, The Creator 

Igor - Tyler, The Creator

Weezer (White Album) - Weezer

nightlife - yuragi

[yrpspiritsintheshadows]

Quiet Storm

Quiet Storm

Eiji had to be careful driving up the dirt roads to the house. He didn't mind it most of the time but in harsher weather it could get a little dangerous.

He could barely see as the rain came down around his car. It was a rough evening so far and he was very much looking forward to getting a shower and getting into bed.

This is all Chase's fault.

"OH! THE BARN IS TOTALLY FINE! THE CLIENT SWORE THERE WAS ELECTRICITY TO PLUG IN ALL OF OUR SUPER SENSITIVE EQUIPMENT." MY BUTT!

WE NEARLY DROWNED IN THERE!

The investigation would've gone off without a hitch if it hadn't been raining to a point where the very old rooftop borderline collapsed, soaking the investigators with a heavy dose of rain and waterlogging some of their equipment.

"I SWEAR TO ALL THE DEITIES IN THIS WORLD AND SEVERAL OTHER DIMENSIONS I WILL KILL YOU!"

"Eiji,! EIJI NOT THE FACE! NOT THE FACE!"

Eiji took off his sneaker as Chase bolted out of the barn to his car.

"GET BACK HERE AND DIE LIKE A MAN!"

Now, he was soaked, tired and so very much wanted to sleep. He would have to fix the equipment later but for now, getting warmed up, food in his stomach and some sleep… sounded so decadent.

Eiji pulled in, making a run for the door as thunder boomed over head. The warmth of the house greeted him as soon as he was in the doorway.

"I'm hoooome!" He called, kicking off his sneakers, not wanting to catch Carmen's wrath for dirtying up the floor.

Ken ran up to him, letting out a squeal.

"Daaadddy!" He moved in for a hug, only to have Eiji put a hand on his head to stop him. "Hey!"

"Kenny, I am soaked to the bone and super cold. You don't wanna hug me right now."

"Eiji-Oh my stars, go upstairs, now!"

Eiji wasn't entirely sure if he was overjoyed to see his wife… or terrified as she ran at him with a towel she pulled out of the linen closet near the kitchen.

"Carmenita-OOF!"

Overjoyed, definitely overjoyed with a hint of terror. He just kept quiet, letting her fuss over him before wrapping the towel around his shoulders.

"Sorry, I'll do the laundry tomorrow." He kissed her head before heading on upstairs. "Where are the twins?"

"Pool. They remembered we had it." Carmen replied, warmth in her eyes. "So, they're just being little sharks."

Eiji smiled softly. He was relieved to hear that. Any bit of the boys being more comfortable with their new home he considered a victory.

"That's great to hear." He stifled a small yawn. "And remind me to pick up one of those huge giant chocolate bars from Costco tomorrow…"

"Already did that dear, same with the industrial size tin of cookie dough." Carmen nudged him. "Kenny, you can go back to your brothers. I got your old man."

Eiji gave her an offended look.

"I'm not THAT old yet!"

Ken tilted his head, looking up at his parents.

"But… You're thirty."

"N-Not yet! Twenty nine!"

"Okay! Love you, Daddy!" Ken darted off, a spring in his step. "Hikaaaa! Dekiii!"

Eiji slumped a bit against Carmen, sighing heavily.

"My son called me old." He whined.

"He didn't say that." Carmen giggled, kissing his head. "C'mon, let's get you warmed up."

"I love you."

oooooo

The storm outside was only growing worse. Normally, on nights like this, Eiji would set out his crystals and collect some of the water for cleansings.

Tonight, he was just content to curl up with his wife after managing to tuck their children into bed.

He gazed down at her, kissing her forehead. Carmen smiled tiredly up at him, cupping his cheek.

"You're such a cuddler."

"I can't help it." He chuckled, bringing her closer, kissing her cheek.

They had a small lamp going in their room so it wasn't entirely pitch black.. And one in the hall so the kids could make their way around without tripping over themselves.

The house shook from a particularly loud rumble as lightning flashed across the sky… and the power went out, the room going pitch black.

Just as Hikaru and Hideki screamed.

Eiji fumbled for his phone, turning on the flashlight.

"I got them."

He didn't need to as the door was thrown open. The two teenagers were holding their phones for substitute light but they were pretty shaken up.

"Oh, oh, oh…" He frowned, getting up, Carmen doing the same.

"Oh, Ninos… Was it the storm?"

Hideki hugged Carmen tightly, burying his face.

"There was a storm on the sea when I was alone…" He mumbled. "I hated it."

Eiji held out an arm as Hikaru threw his arms around him sniffling. He could feel how bad the teen was shaking.

"They shocked me once…"

They held the two close, exchanging a worried look.

"Do you wanna stay here tonight?" Carmen asked, concerned.

"If it's not too much trouble."

Eiji shook his head, giving a gentle look, making room on the bed for them.

"Right here. There's a reason we got a king sized bed." He chuckled.

"Thank you… Sorry." Hideki frowned, climbing onto Carmen's side of the bed. She laid down, bringing an arm around him.

"I got you baby. I'm right here." She stroked his hair, running her fingers through the long strands. He closed his eyes, a churr escaping his throat.

Hikaru climbed in next to his brother, tucking Hideki's head under his chin.

"Nii-san…" Hideki mumbled.

"I gotcha.."

Eiji was about to climb in… as a small sniffle was heard from the doorway. They all looked over as Ken stood in the middle of it, Okami beside him.

"My night light went out." He whimpered. "Can I stay here?"

"Of course, Ken." Eiji lifted him up, getting into bed. Hikaru shifted as Ken curled up between him and Eiji.

A large weight sank into the end of the bed as Okami started to climb up.

"No!" Carmen sat up, pointing to the doorway. "DOWN! Go lay down!"

Ken sat up, giving her a kicked look as lightning illuminated the room.

"Mommy, she's scared too… Pleeeeaaase?"

Carmen winced.

"There's not enough-"

Before she realized it, the boys were all giving her the same look. She sighed, lying back down, bringing the blanket back up.

Why can I never say no to that FACE?

Okami hopped up, laying across the foot of the bed, curling up into a ball.

"See? She's not causing any trouble." Hideki yawned, closing his eyes curling up more to Carmen. She smiled softly, kissing his head.

"I know, Mijo. She just hogs the bed."

"So does Hikaru."

"HEY-"

Thunder rumbled around them as the twins gulped.

"That was really close…" Hikaru whispered, bringing the blanket up over his head.

Eiji frowned, stroking his back.

"It's okay buddy, we're safe here. The house is solid brick, nothing's getting past it." He gave him a reassuring look as Hikaru hesitantly looked up.

"Promise?"

"Promise. I'd never let anything happen to you guys."

Hikaru smiled a little, huddling close.

Eiji stroked his back.

"Are you afraid of…" Hikaru yawned, trying to keep his eyes open. "Anything?"

Ken gave him a confused look, nuzzling down into his pillow more.

"Daddy's never afraid of nothin'."

Eiji smiled gently, shaking his head.

"I'm afraid of lots of things, honestly. They're just things that most people don't have to worry about… or things that every person worries over."

"Like what…?"

"Well… losing you guys." He replied. "Hikaru, getting you here was one of the scariest moments of my life because I was worried about you."

Hikaru's eyes widened a little.

"Eiji…"

"You guys, mean the world to me. Even if at the time I didn't know much about you I already loved you." He smiled softly. "You're my kids. I love you guys more than life itself."

"We love you too, Daddy!" Ken chirped.

Hideki let out a quiet snore.

Carmen chuckled, kissing his head.

"We all love you, Dear."

"Yeah…" Hikaru laid his head back down.

He hadn't thought about it that way.

He goes above and beyond… even for people he doesn't know.

His eyes grew heavy as sleep threatened to take him under any second. The storm outside was starting to quiet, his family was all around him.

This was familiar…

When Aika and Daisuke were alive, sometimes, they'd all sleep in a pile together, huddled close to one another. Especially when they had spent a few months living only in the ocean, that was the only way they could sleep.

He closed his eyes, curling up into a ball.

"Night… Dad…"

Eiji gasped a little, eyes going wide in shock.

He hadn't expected that. He looked up at Carmen who had a similar look.

Hikaru had a smile on his face, fast asleep.

"He… He just…"

"Eiji…" Carmen covered her mouth. "He just…"

Eiji wiped at his eyes as they stung with tears of pride… and relief.

"He… He called me Dad…"

He reached across, taking her hand as they gazed down at their children.

It hadn't been easy. Parenting never was, especially with how fast things had changed…

But they were theirs.

All three of them, safe and sound.

"I love our family, Eiji." Carmen whispered.

Eiji smiled, nodding.

"I love them too… I love you all more than anything."

He brushed his thumb across her wedding ring, tracing it as his eyes closed.

"Goodnight."