#but then the bodyguards were more of their own friend group and it never felt like they all got together

[titsthedamnseason]

bro you have no idea how happy i’m going to be when ben and winona become besties again, ben and xander mend their rift and become an iconic duo, the girl squad all turns 18 and starts moving out and living their lives, and all the younger kids + easton and jesse become a friend group. lowkey this might end up being my favorite era of all the next gen books im so excited

[arilevenatz]

By Her Side

Pairing: Bodyguard! Mingi x princess!reader

Genre/trope: fluff, comedy (?), Modern royal au

Word count: 8.5k

Warnings: Age difference, reader is 10 years younger than Mingi, Mingi and reader first met when she was 10, but it was just cute relation back then, reader's hand gets burned. Lmk later if I missed something!

AN: phewww now this might not be for everyone guys. It's a risky trope for some people but because I have parental issues I'm fine with this. But if u still decide to read this after ignoring the warnings and then proceed to hate my work, I'm gonna delete and block you. That being said, enjoy Mingi being an absolute cutie

The Kang family had always been at the center of their nation’s identity, revered for their grace, strength, and modern leadership. Crown Prince Kang Yeosang, the epitome of royal perfection, was frequently seen fulfilling his duties with calm authority. The press adored him, and the people admired his unwavering commitment to the country.

But then, there was her—the mysterious younger sibling, the princess. Her name was only whispered in the media, her face hidden behind the shroud of privacy. She was unlike any princess depicted in the movies or books. She spent her days like an ordinary teenager, far removed from the royal spotlight, in oversized hoodies and sneakers. To her, the palace gates were more like walls keeping her in than protecting her from the outside world.

The princess rarely appeared at public events, and even when she did, the cameras were only granted fleeting glimpses of her, often from the side or with her head bowed. While the media speculated about her personality, the truth was far simpler—she just wanted a normal life.

To the world, she was Princess YN of the Kang family—a figure shrouded in mystery. But to the people who mattered, she was just YN. She attended a regular high school, sat in the same classrooms as everyone else, and blended into the crowd so seamlessly that most of her classmates often forgot about her royal title. She was the girl who shared notes, cracked jokes, and groaned about exams like everyone else.

Her friends treated her like one of their own, never bowing or tiptoeing around her. They teased her when she tripped in gym class and cheered her on during group projects. They knew who she was but never made it a big deal. She loved that.

What wasn’t so normal, however, was the tall figure who accompanied her everywhere—Mingi, her bodyguard. Dressed in unassuming clothes and rarely speaking unless needed, Mingi was her silent protector, always lingering at the edges of her life. Whether she was walking to school, grabbing ice cream after class, or spending hours at the library, Mingi was there.

He wasn’t just a bodyguard, though. To YN, he was more like a guardian, someone who quietly guided and watched over her. While her friends sometimes teased her about having her “personal watchdog,” she never minded. Mingi had been a part of her life for so long that she couldn’t imagine going anywhere without him.

During lunch breaks, while her friends chatted and laughed, Mingi often sat a few tables away, scrolling through his phone but always aware of her. When they walked home from school, she’d casually chatter about her day, and though Mingi’s replies were short, his presence was steady and comforting.

“I bet you think my math teacher hates me,” she said one day, munching on a bag of chips as they walked to her favorite bookstore.

“I don’t think he hates you,” Mingi replied, glancing at her. “But maybe stop arguing about every grade?”

She grinned. “Never. Someone has to keep him on his toes.”

“You’re going to give me gray hair before I’m 30,” he muttered, shaking his head.

“You’d look good with gray hair,” she teased, nudging him.

Moments like these made YN feel like the luckiest girl in the world. She might have been born into royalty, but with Mingi by her side, she got to live a life that felt wonderfully, perfectly normal.

How did they meet? Well the meeting was a bit chaotic.

It had been a quiet spring afternoon when ten-year-old YN first met Mingi. The palace halls were dappled with sunlight, and the faint hum of gardeners at work outside filled the air. YN, dressed in her favorite pale blue dress, sat in the corner of the grand library, building a lopsided tower of books. She was humming to herself when a knock interrupted her focus.

“YN,” the King’s voice came from the doorway, deep and steady as always, “I want you to meet someone.”

She turned, pushing her hair out of her face, and blinked at the tall figure standing beside her father. He was lanky but strong, with wide shoulders and a quiet confidence that seemed far too mature for someone who looked only a decade older than her. His black hair was neatly combed, and he looked stiff in his uniform—nervous, even.

“This is Song Mingi,” the King continued, his tone softer now. “He’s going to be your bodyguard from today onward.”

“Bodyguard?” YN tilted her head, confusion written all over her face. “Why do I need a bodyguard?”

The King smiled. “Because you’re very special, YN. And special people need someone to look after them.”

Mingi bowed deeply, his voice low but clear as he spoke for the first time. “It’s an honor to serve you, Your Highness.”

YN frowned, her gaze darting between her father and the stranger. “So… what does he do? Stand around and look boring?”

Her father chuckled, patting her head gently. “He’ll be here to keep you safe and help you with anything you need.” With that, the King left, leaving YN alone with the unfamiliar young man.

For the first few days, YN wasn’t quite sure what to make of Mingi. He followed her everywhere, always a step behind, silent and watchful. Whether she was in her room playing with her dolls, exploring the gardens, or eating her meals, he was there.

“Do you ever talk?” she asked him one day, spinning around to face him as he stood by the door to her room.

“If you want me to,” he replied simply, his voice calm.

“What’s the point of you being here if you’re just going to be boring?” she huffed, crossing her arms.

But things began to change after a few days. It started with little things—how Mingi always made sure her favorite snacks were on hand during study time, how he carried her books without being asked, or how he gently guided her away from muddy puddles in the garden without a word. When she tripped during a game of tag with her friends, Mingi was the first to rush to her side, kneeling to check her scraped knee.

“You’re not hurt badly,” he said, his voice soft but steady. “But let’s get this cleaned up.”

From that moment, something shifted. YN began to trust him. Soon, she found herself clinging to him more and more. She’d tug at his sleeve whenever she wanted something, ask him endless questions about his life, and insist he sit with her during meals, even if he tried to politely decline.

“Mingi, do you like chocolate or vanilla?” she’d ask, holding up two bowls of ice cream.

“Vanilla, I guess,” he’d reply, only for her to shove the bowl of chocolate into his hands with a grin. “Well, I like chocolate, so you’re eating this one.”

It wasn’t long before Mingi became the center of her little world. To her, he wasn’t just a bodyguard—he was a constant, someone who made her feel safe in a way she didn’t even realize she needed. She didn’t care about the circumstances that brought him to the palace, or that he was the son of a noble family that had fallen from grace. To her, he was simply Mingi, her guardian, her protector, and the one person she trusted with everything.

By the end of the first month, she was practically glued to his side. Wherever YN went, Mingi wasn’t far behind—and she made sure of it.

The palace soon became accustomed to the sight of YN clinging to Mingi like he was a second skin. Wherever she went, her tiny hands were either clutching his sleeve, gripping his uniform jacket, or reaching up to be carried. And Mingi, with his endless patience, always obliged her, no matter how exhausting her energy seemed to be.

One day, while attending a charity event with her parents, YN grew bored of the endless formalities. The long speeches and handshakes weren’t exactly ten-year-old-friendly. Spotting Mingi standing a short distance away, she made her way over to him, ignoring her mother’s disapproving glance.

“Mingi,” she whined softly, tugging at his sleeve. “I’m tired.”

He crouched down, his expression softening. “Want me to take you somewhere quieter?”

“Carry me,” she demanded, lifting her arms up dramatically.

Without hesitation, he scooped her up, balancing her effortlessly on his hip. She snuggled into his chest, resting her head on his shoulder. The cameras caught the moment almost instantly, flashes illuminating the hall as reporters whispered to each other. The next day, headlines were plastered across every paper: “Princess YN Finds Her Comfort in Her Shadow, Bodyguard Mingi!”

It didn’t stop there. The media couldn’t get enough of their dynamic. During a public library visit, YN decided to curl up in Mingi’s lap while reading one of her favorite picture books. It was an innocent gesture—she had always leaned on him as a source of comfort—but the sight of the princess slouched against the stoic bodyguard with her book upside down made the perfect photograph.

“Do you think you could sit any straighter?” Mingi teased in a low whisper, glancing down at her as she adjusted herself against him.

“Nope. I’m comfy,” she mumbled without looking up.

The royal PR team later joked that the image single-handedly made the entire nation collectively “awww.”

Another instance came during a school event. YN, participating in a relay race, tripped over her shoelaces midway. She wasn’t hurt, but her face scrunched up in frustration as the other kids raced ahead of her. Before anyone could step in, Mingi walked straight onto the track, kneeling beside her.

“You okay, Princess?” he asked gently.

“No!” she pouted. “I was winning!”

“Want me to carry you to the finish line?” he joked.

Her eyes lit up instantly. “Yes!”

Despite the protests of her teacher, Mingi picked her up, her arms looping tightly around his neck, and jogged to the finish line. The other kids laughed and cheered, and YN wore a smug grin for the rest of the day. The moment was, of course, caught on video and quickly went viral.

In quieter moments, their bond shone just as brightly. During long car rides to royal functions, YN would inevitably fall asleep against Mingi’s shoulder, her little body slouching into his side. No matter how cramped or awkward the position, Mingi never moved until she woke up, even if his arm went numb.

“Doesn’t she get heavy?” one of the royal aides once asked him, watching as Mingi carried a dozing YN into the palace after a long day.

“Not at all,” he replied simply, adjusting her slightly so she’d be more comfortable.

Mingi didn’t care about the headlines or the public perception. To him, YN wasn’t just his responsibility—she was his charge, his little princess. And to YN, Mingi wasn’t just her bodyguard. He was her rock, her protector, and the one person who never let go.

As YN grew older, her dynamic with Mingi evolved, but in many ways, it stayed the same. He was no longer the one carrying her around or fetching things for her—she had plenty of palace staff to do that—but Mingi remained her constant, her anchor, and most importantly, her best friend.

“Hey, Mingi,” she said one day, sprawled across the palace couch, flipping through her phone. “Can you believe someone asked me to bring them a cup of water today? Me. A princess. I mean, can you imagine?”

Mingi, who was sitting nearby with a book in hand, glanced at her, unimpressed. “You could’ve just gotten it for them.”

“I don’t think so.” She raised an eyebrow, smirking. “That’s what staff is for.”

He shook his head, hiding a small smile. “You’re impossible.”

“But you like me this way,” she quipped, tossing a cushion at him.

Mingi might have been her bodyguard, but to her, he was the one person in the palace who never treated her like royalty. He didn’t bow, didn’t rush to fulfill her every whim. And she liked that. She didn’t need to ask him for anything—he already gave her his loyalty, his protection, and his steady presence.

She didn’t hesitate to make the distinction clear to others, though. If anyone dared to suggest Mingi do something outside of his role, she was quick to shut it down.

“Mingi isn’t staff,” she’d say firmly. “He’s my friend. Get someone else to do it.”

Her other staff quickly learned that Mingi held a special place in her life, and they respected it. Meanwhile, YN never held back from treating him like a confidant. She’d drag him to her favorite places, tell him all her secrets, and share everything from her late-night worries to her wildest dreams.

“You know, sometimes I think you’re the only person who actually knows me,” she told him one evening as they sat in the palace garden.

“That’s because you talk my ear off,” Mingi teased, though his voice was warm.

“Well, someone has to listen,” she shot back with a grin, leaning her head against his shoulder.

And though Mingi never said it, he valued their friendship just as much. To him, she wasn’t just a princess—she was YN, his closest friend, the one person who treated him like family in a world that often felt far too formal.

It was a crisp winter evening, the kind where the cold seemed to seep into your bones despite the layers of warm clothing. The royal family stood on the grand balcony of the palace, gazing down at the crowd gathered for the annual winter gala. A sea of people, elegantly dressed in thick coats and scarves, murmured excitedly below, admiring the lights twinkling across the square.

YN stood near the railing, her eyes wandering over the scene, but she wasn’t paying much attention to the event itself. Instead, she was focused on the warm presence beside her. Mingi stood just behind her, always watchful, his dark coat blending with the night as he ensured she remained comfortable despite the chill in the air.

Every few moments, Mingi would glance down at YN, noting how her scarf had slipped a little, exposing her neck to the cold. Without a word, he gently adjusted it, making sure it was wrapped securely around her. YN barely noticed—she was used to it by now. Mingi’s careful attention to her every need had become second nature.

“YN,” Mingi’s voice cut through the soft hum of the crowd, “your scarf came loose again.”

YN sighed, her breath visible in the cold air, and shifted closer to him, her cheek grazing his coat as she stood slightly slouched against his side. She had grown used to his hovering, his need to ensure she was always warm and taken care of. It wasn’t annoying to her—it felt like normal.

“I’m fine,” she mumbled, her voice muffled by the cold air, but she made no move to pull away from him. She liked the way Mingi was always there, always making sure she was safe and comfortable.

Mingi didn’t argue. He simply adjusted the scarf one more time, then slipped a small heat pack into her hands, holding one against her ear, knowing how much she hated the cold seeping into her sensitive skin. He didn’t even ask if she was okay. He just knew.

YN clutched the heat pack with both hands, pressing it against her ear, and looked up at him, offering a small, thankful smile. There was no need for words—Mingi's actions spoke for him. She wasn’t bothered by the constant attention, the way he fussed over her in the cold. To YN, it was just how things had always been, and she couldn’t imagine a winter night without Mingi there, making sure she was taken care of.

She let out a soft breath and leaned against his side, her body instinctively seeking the warmth he always provided. Mingi didn’t pull away. In fact, he wrapped his arm around her, pulling her a little closer to shield her from the wind.

To the royal family, the people on the balcony, and the watching crowd, this was simply the expected sight—the princess, calm and composed, standing with her ever-vigilant bodyguard. But to YN, this was the norm. It wasn’t a chore or anything unusual. It was Mingi. Her best friend. Her protector. And for the first time, with the wind biting at her skin, she leaned into him even more, grateful for the comfort that only he could give.

The next morning, as YN sat in the grand dining room with her family, sipping on her warm tea, the morning papers were spread across the table. She glanced lazily at the headlines, her fingers tracing the rim of her cup absentmindedly. As usual, there was a flurry of royal gossip, but one headline caught her eye.

"Princess YN and Bodyguard Mingi: A Winter Night of Comfort and Protection"

She frowned, her brow furrowing as she skimmed through the article. Pictures of her and Mingi on the balcony the night before had been plastered all over the page—images of her clinging to his side, the heat packs in her hands, and Mingi adjusting her scarf. It was clear the media had turned their attention to their every move, almost as if they were trying to capture some deeper meaning behind their closeness.

“Why are they so obsessed with me?” YN asked, looking up at Mingi, who was quietly standing beside her, ever-watchful.

Mingi glanced at the newspaper but said nothing, instead focusing on adjusting the setting of her teacup. He knew what was coming.

“Well?” she pressed, looking up at him with wide, curious eyes. "I mean, it’s not like I did anything special. It’s just cold, and you were just… looking out for me.”

Mingi smiled softly, his expression gentle as he gave her a small nod. “You’re not just anyone, YN.”

She blinked, still not fully understanding. “But why? I’m just me.”

“That’s just it,” he said, kneeling beside her so they were eye-level. “You are a princess. People look up to you. They admire you for who you are, for everything you represent.”

YN’s brows furrowed even deeper, and she leaned back in her chair, trying to wrap her head around his words. She was so used to the quiet normalcy of her life that she had never truly realized how the world saw her.

She mumbled softly, tracing a line in the condensation on her teacup. “I don’t want all this attention. It feels so… weird.”

Mingi chuckled softly, his tone warm but reassuring. “It can be a lot, yes. But that’s just the way it is when you’re born into the royal family. You’re not just living for yourself. Your actions, your presence, it matters to people. They care about you because they see you as someone who represents the country, its hopes, its dreams.”

YN blinked, trying to absorb his explanation. “So it’s not because I’m cute or something?” she asked, her lips curling into a small, playful smile.

Mingi chuckled, shaking his head. “Of course, you’re cute. But it’s more than that. You’re the princess. The future of this kingdom.”

YN paused, staring down at her tea. She didn’t fully understand all of it, but there was something about the way Mingi explained it that made her feel both strange and important.

“You always say things that sound so serious,” she muttered, not quite grasping the weight of what he meant.

Mingi smiled at her, knowing how young and innocent her thoughts still were despite her royal title. “You don’t have to understand everything now. Just know that you’re more than you think you are. And that’s why people are watching.”

YN let out a sigh, her head drooping as she thought about it. “I guess I’ll have to get used to it, huh?”

Mingi nodded, giving her a light pat on the back. “You’ll get the hang of it.”

And even though she didn’t fully grasp the complexities of her status, YN knew that one thing would never change: Mingi would always be there by her side, keeping things normal, keeping things grounded—just like a friend.

A few days after the whole winter gala incident, YN and Mingi found themselves attending a royal charity dinner, an event full of formalities and stiff faces. YN, however, wasn’t one to enjoy the seriousness of these events. Her mind often wandered, especially when the speeches began. That evening, as she sat next to Mingi, her attention started to drift.

At first, she tried to occupy herself with her phone under the table, but her restless fingers quickly grew bored. She glanced over at Mingi, who was dutifully standing beside her, observing the guests with his usual focused expression.

“Hey, Mingi,” she whispered, poking him lightly in the ribs. “Do you think the soup is too hot? Or do you think they put something weird in it?”

Mingi glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. “What do you mean by ‘weird’?”

“Like… I don’t know,” she said, wrinkling her nose. “What if they secretly put... chocolate in it?”

Mingi chuckled, clearly amused by the absurdity of her thoughts. “YN, don’t be silly. Chocolate in soup is—”

But before he could finish, YN's mischievous grin appeared. She leaned over toward him and whispered in a stage whisper, “What if we just sneak a taste? You know, just to see if it’s chocolate or not.”

Mingi looked at her in disbelief. “YN—no, we’re not sneaking food under the table.”

But that was exactly what she was about to do. Without further hesitation, YN grabbed her spoon from the table and casually dipped it into the bowl of soup, all while trying to act as if she were merely adjusting it. The only problem was, she hadn’t quite thought it through. As she tried to raise the spoon to her lips, she accidentally splashed some of the soup onto her dress.

“Oops,” she muttered, trying to cover the small spill by quickly wiping it with her napkin.

Mingi, ever the protector, quickly leaned in to help, but the moment he did, he accidentally knocked his own drink—an expensive glass of red wine—right onto YN’s lap.

“Ah! Mingi!” she yelped, wide-eyed. The wine spread across her dress in an instant.

The room went silent for a moment, and YN couldn’t help but burst out laughing. “Oh my god, what did you do? You just exploded my lap with wine!”

Mingi looked horrified, his face flushed. “I’m so sorry, Princess, I didn’t—”

“Don’t worry,” she interrupted, still giggling. “At least the wine looks kind of fancy, right?”

Mingi quickly grabbed some napkins and tried to dab away the mess, but YN was now laughing so hard that she could hardly keep her composure.

“What’s going on over there?” someone whispered nearby.

“Oh, nothing,” YN said between fits of laughter. “Just Mingi trying to drown me in wine and soup.”

Mingi shot her an exasperated look, but even he couldn’t hold back a smile. “You’re impossible.”

The rest of the evening went on with everyone around them trying hard not to giggle at the mess they had unintentionally made. And though YN’s dress was ruined, it was just another one of those funny moments that felt normal between the two of them—a princess and her overprotective bodyguard, who never seemed to do anything quite by the book.

One afternoon, as YN lounged lazily in the palace, scrolling through her phone, she noticed Mingi, who had just returned from his usual workout. The sight of him, all flushed from his session and wiping sweat from his forehead, made her pause mid-scroll.

Her mind, never short of strange ideas, suddenly lit up with a random, ridiculous thought.

What if... she mused, a mischievous glint appearing in her eyes. What if I swing from his biceps?

Without a second thought, she stood up and walked casually toward the workout area where Mingi was cooling down with some stretches. His attention was focused entirely on his breathing, unaware that YN was about to disrupt his hard-earned relaxation.

“Mingi,” she said in the sweetest tone she could muster, stepping into his personal space, “I’ve been thinking.”

Mingi, still slightly out of breath, raised an eyebrow, giving her a suspicious look. “Uh-oh. That’s never good.”

“No, no,” she said, holding up her hands in mock innocence. “It’s a good thought. A very good one.”

He groaned. “What are you plotting now, YN?”

She grinned widely, moving closer and without warning, gently tugging on his arm. “I want to swing from your biceps.”

There was a long pause, and Mingi blinked in disbelief. “What?”

“You heard me,” YN said with a shrug, grinning even more mischievously.

“Do you want me to install a swing in the garden for you?” Mingi asked hesitantly.

“No! I’ve seen you working out so hard, and I’m curious. You look strong enough. Come on, just once. Let me swing from your biceps.”

Mingi, still processing what she said, stared at her for a moment. Then, without much else to do, he rolled his eyes and sighed, but there was a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “You know, this is the weirdest request you’ve ever made.”

“I know, right?” YN said, bouncing on her feet in excitement. “But come on, you owe me for making me stay in all these boring royal events.”

Mingi could only shake his head in disbelief, giving in because he knew YN was never going to let it go. “Fine, fine. But if you hurt yourself, I’m not responsible.”

“Deal!” she said, her voice full of joy.

With one smooth motion, she jumped toward him, wrapping her arms around his thick bicep. He flexed slightly, just enough to lift her off the ground, and YN squealed in delight as she swung from his arm like a monkey.

“See? This is fun!” she exclaimed, giggling wildly.

Mingi stood there, still holding her with a mixture of amusement and disbelief. “You are ridiculous.”

“I know,” YN grinned, her legs swinging back and forth. “But it’s a good kind of ridiculous, don’t you think?”

“You’re lucky I work out so much,” Mingi muttered, though there was affection in his voice.

“Thank you!” she laughed, then swung once more before jumping down. “This was exactly what I needed.”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re impossible.”

But YN didn’t mind. She was already back to lounging, her weird request fulfilled. Mingi might have had his personal workout time invaded, but in that moment, he couldn’t help but smile at how his friendship with YN always kept things unpredictable—and oddly fun.

It was a sunny afternoon, and YN was feeling particularly adventurous—or rather, particularly bored. Mingi had been called to attend a brief meeting with the palace security staff, leaving her to her own devices. Normally, this wouldn’t be an issue, but YN being YN, boredom wasn’t something she handled gracefully.

She decided to take matters into her own hands.

“I don’t need Mingi for everything,” she muttered under her breath, determined to prove that she could function just fine on her own. “How hard can it be to make a cup of tea or something?”

She strolled into the palace kitchen, glancing around at the unfamiliar appliances and shiny surfaces. She had seen Mingi brew tea for her countless times before—it looked easy enough. She grabbed a kettle, filled it with water, and placed it on the stove. With a smug grin, she flicked the stove on and waited.

Moments later, the kettle started whistling, and YN panicked. “Oh no, it’s screaming at me!” she yelled, fumbling with the knobs. Instead of turning the stove off, she accidentally turned it higher. The whistle got louder, and in her panic, she grabbed the kettle with her bare hands.

“HOT! HOT! HOT!” she shrieked, flailing her hands and dropping the kettle back onto the stove with a loud clang.

Hearing the commotion, several staff members rushed into the kitchen, only to find the princess standing there, her cheeks flushed, holding her now slightly red hands.

“Your Highness, are you alright?” one of them asked, clearly concerned.

“I’m fine,” YN grumbled, glaring at the offending kettle. “This thing just hates me.”

Before the staff could offer assistance, the door to the kitchen burst open, and in strode Mingi, looking mildly out of breath and thoroughly unimpressed.

“What is going on here?” he asked, his voice low and calm, but his eyes scanning her for injuries.

YN froze, caught red-handed—literally. “Nothing,” she said quickly, hiding her hands behind her back.

Mingi crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. “Nothing? Because it doesn’t sound like nothing. It sounds like someone decided to play chef without supervision.”

“I was just trying to make tea,” she muttered, pouting. “How hard can it be? You do it all the time.”

Mingi sighed, stepping closer and gently pulling her hands into view. He inspected her reddened palms, his frown deepening. “You burned yourself.”

“It’s just a tiny burn,” she protested.

Without a word, Mingi grabbed a small first-aid kit from the counter, pulled her to a nearby chair, and sat her down. As he carefully applied some ointment to her hands, YN watched him silently, feeling both guilty and oddly comforted.

“You’re not allowed in the kitchen alone anymore,” Mingi said firmly, wrapping a bandage around her hand.

“But I was just trying to—”

“YN,” he interrupted, looking her straight in the eye. “You are truly hopeless without me.”

She opened her mouth to argue but then closed it again, realizing he wasn’t wrong. “Fine,” she muttered, leaning her head on his shoulder dramatically. “I guess I do need you for everything.”

Mingi chuckled softly, his expression softening. “That’s what I’m here for.”

From then on, YN stayed far away from the kitchen—unless Mingi was there to supervise. And though she occasionally teased him for being overprotective, deep down, she knew she wouldn’t have it any other way.

It was a chilly, overcast morning, the kind where the sky hung low and gray, promising rain at any moment. YN sat with her group of friends in the school common area, bundled up in her scarf and coat. The conversation drifted from homework to weekend plans, and finally, as it often did, to crushes and dream weddings.

“I think I’d want someone who’s athletic,” one friend said, her cheeks pink as she laughed.

“Yeah, but he also has to be super smart,” another added.

“What about you, YN?” one of them asked, leaning in with a teasing grin. “You never talk about this stuff. Who’s your dream guy?”

YN blinked, caught off guard by the question. Normally, she’d deflect with a joke or tease them back, but today, she hesitated.

Her friends stared at her expectantly, but instead of conjuring up a romantic fantasy, her mind went somewhere else entirely—to Mingi.

She thought of how he always stood by her, carrying her heavy school bags without complaint. How he remembered to pack her favorite snacks on long days and made sure she had an umbrella when the sky threatened rain, just like today. How his steady, quiet presence had been the one constant in her life for as long as she could remember.

But then, like a sudden gust of wind cutting through the chill, another thought hit her: One day, I’ll have to leave him behind.

Her stomach twisted. She wasn’t like her friends, free to imagine marrying their crushes or choosing their own futures. She was a princess, bound by duty. One day, she’d be expected to marry someone suitable—a prince or nobleman chosen by her family, someone who fit the royal image. And Mingi… Mingi would remain as he was, her protector, her shadow. But never more.

The thought felt like a weight pressing down on her chest, and she didn’t know why it hurt so much.

“YN? Hellooo?” her friend waved a hand in front of her face, snapping her out of her daze.

“Huh? Oh, sorry,” YN mumbled, forcing a small smile. “I was just… thinking.”

Her friends exchanged amused looks, laughing lightly. “Thinking about your crush, huh?” one teased.

“Something like that,” YN muttered, though her heart wasn’t in it. She laughed along with them, but the unease in her chest lingered for the rest of the day.

The school bell rang, signaling the end of the day, and YN packed her things slowly, her thoughts still clouded from the earlier conversation with her friends. The idea of leaving Mingi someday had weighed heavily on her throughout the day, and she couldn’t shake it.

As she exited the school building, there he was, as always—Mingi. He leaned casually against the sleek black car, dressed in his usual suit, an umbrella in hand just in case it rained again. His watchful eyes immediately softened when they met hers, and he straightened up, opening the car door for her.

“Rough day?” he asked, noticing the faint frown on her face as she approached.

YN didn’t respond immediately. Instead, she stood there for a moment, looking at him, her thoughts racing. She thought about how he was always there, waiting for her, protecting her, ensuring she never had to worry about anything. And the idea of losing that—of losing him—was unbearable.

“Mingi,” she said suddenly, her voice firm but her eyes filled with emotion.

He blinked, surprised by her tone. “Yes?”

“I’ve decided,” she said, stepping closer to him, her hands clutching the straps of her backpack. “I’m not leaving you. Ever.”

Mingi tilted his head, confused by her sudden declaration. “What are you talking about?”

“I mean it,” she continued, her words tumbling out impulsively. “If I have to marry someone, it’ll be you.”

There was a brief, stunned silence as Mingi processed her words. His eyes widened slightly, and for the first time in a long while, he looked genuinely flustered.

“YN,” he started, his voice gentle but firm, “you can’t just—”

“I’m serious!” she interrupted, her cheeks flushing but her gaze unwavering. “Why should I marry some random prince or noble when you’re the one who’s always been there for me? You’re the one who takes care of me, who knows me better than anyone else. Who else would I want by my side?”

Mingi exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck as he tried to find the right words. He crouched slightly so they were at eye level, his expression softening.

“YN,” he said carefully, “I’ve been by your side since you were a kid. My job is to protect you and make sure you’re safe. That’s what I’m here for. But marrying me?” He shook his head lightly, a small smile tugging at his lips. “That’s not how it works.”

“But why not?” she pressed, her voice quieter now but still determined. “I don’t care about what’s ‘supposed’ to happen. I just… I don’t want to lose you, Mingi.”

His expression softened even more, and he placed a hand gently on her shoulder. “You’re not going to lose me,” he said firmly. “No matter what happens, I’ll always be here. That’s a promise, remember?”

YN bit her lip, her shoulders relaxing slightly at his reassurance. “You better mean it,” she muttered, her cheeks still pink.

“I do,” he said with a quiet chuckle, straightening up and opening the car door again. “Now, come on. Let’s get you home before you decide to propose to me in front of the whole school.”

She let out a small laugh, climbing into the car, her heart feeling a little lighter. As they drove away, YN glanced at Mingi through the rearview mirror, her mind still replaying their conversation.

That evening, after they arrived back at the palace, YN couldn’t keep the thoughts swirling in her head any longer. As soon as dinner was over, she excused herself and marched straight to her father’s study.

The king was sitting at his large oak desk, reading through a stack of documents when she entered without knocking—a habit he often teased her about but secretly adored. Her mother, the queen, was seated on the nearby couch, sipping tea as she reviewed her own set of papers. Both of them looked up in surprise when YN stood before them, her face set with determination.

“Father, Mother,” she started, her voice steady despite the nerves fluttering in her chest, “I need to talk to you about something important.”

The king raised an eyebrow, setting down his pen. “What is it, my dear? You look serious.”

“I’ve been thinking about the future,” she said, clasping her hands together. “About how one day, I’ll have to marry someone. But I don’t want to marry some stranger or someone chosen just because of their title. I want… I want Mingi.”

The room went silent, the words hanging heavy in the air.

The queen blinked, clearly taken aback. “Mingi? As in your bodyguard?”

YN nodded firmly. “Yes. He’s been there for me my whole life. He’s the one who truly knows me, who understands me. I don’t see why I have to marry someone else just because it’s tradition. It’s not fair.”

The king leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful but hesitant. “YN, you know we’ve always respected your opinions and wishes. But this… This isn’t something we can decide so easily. Mingi is—”

“—not a royal,” the queen finished gently, though her tone carried a note of concern.

“I don’t care about that!” YN interrupted, her voice rising slightly. “Why does it matter? Times have changed, haven’t they? People don’t care about traditions as much as they used to. They care about love and happiness. And I know what I want.”

The king exchanged a glance with the queen, both of them clearly unsure how to respond.

It was then that the door opened, and Yeosang stepped in, his brows furrowed as he looked between his parents and YN. “What’s going on?” he asked, sensing the tension in the room.

“She wants to marry Mingi,” the queen explained, her voice laced with a mix of disbelief and worry.

Yeosang’s eyebrows shot up, and then, much to everyone’s surprise, he smiled slightly. “Well, why not?”

“Yeosang!” the queen said, shocked by his response.

“Mother, Father,” Yeosang said calmly, stepping closer, “it’s not the old days anymore. Things are different now. People won’t revolt just because the princess marries someone who isn’t royal. In fact, they’ll probably love it. You’ve seen how the media adores her bond with Mingi. They’d see it as proof that she’s grounded, that she cares about real connections instead of outdated customs.”

The king frowned, clearly conflicted. “It’s not just about the public, Yeosang. It’s about the responsibility, the image, the—”

“The happiness of your daughter,” Yeosang interrupted gently but firmly. “Shouldn’t that come first?”

YN looked at her brother, her eyes wide with gratitude. She hadn’t expected him to stand up for her so strongly, and it gave her a surge of hope.

The queen sighed, looking at her husband. “He’s not wrong, you know. But… it’s still hard to let go of traditions we’ve followed for so long.”

The king rubbed his temples, clearly torn. After a long pause, he looked at YN. “This isn’t a decision we can make overnight. But… if this is truly what you want, we’ll consider it. Just give us some time.”

It wasn’t a definitive yes, but it wasn’t a no either. YN’s heart swelled with a mix of relief and hope.

“Thank you,” she said softly, bowing slightly before leaving the room.

As YN left the study, her thoughts still buzzing with hope and relief, she heard familiar footsteps behind her. She turned to see Yeosang following her down the grand hallway, his hands casually tucked into his pockets.

“What?” she asked, stopping in her tracks and raising an eyebrow at him.

Yeosang sighed, motioning for her to keep walking as he fell into step beside her. “I need to talk to you,” he said, his tone calm but firm.

She rolled her eyes. “If you’re going to tell me I’m being ridiculous, don’t bother. You already supported me in front of Mother and Father.”

“I did,” Yeosang agreed, glancing at her. “But only because I’m tired of those outdated customs, too. And because, if anyone deserves you, it’s Mingi. He’s practically perfect for you.”

YN blinked in surprise at his honesty, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Really? You think so?”

“Yes, I do,” he admitted with a shrug. “He’s loyal, reliable, and has been by your side for years. I know he’d do anything to keep you safe and happy. That’s the kind of person you need in your life.”

Her smile grew, but before she could thank him, he stopped walking and turned to face her, his expression more serious now.

“But, YN,” he said firmly, “you’re still too young to make decisions like this.”

Her smile faltered. “What do you mean? I know what I want.”

“You think you do,” he replied, his tone gentle but unyielding. “But you’re only a teenager. Marriage isn’t just about liking someone or thinking they’re a good person. It’s a huge commitment, and it comes with responsibilities you can’t even imagine right now.”

“I’m not saying I want to marry him tomorrow,” she argued, crossing her arms. “I’m just saying that when the time comes, it should be my choice. And I chose Mingi.”

Yeosang sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Look, I get it. You’ve grown up with him. He’s been like your rock, your anchor. It makes sense that you’d feel this way. But you need to take a step back and really think about what you want in life—not just right now, but years from now.”

YN frowned, her arms dropping to her sides. “You don’t think I’m serious?”

“I think you’re serious,” he said honestly. “And I think your feelings are valid. But feelings change, YN. And you’ve got so much time ahead of you to figure out what you really want. All I’m saying is, don’t rush into something just because it feels right now.”

She looked down at the floor, his words sinking in. As much as she hated to admit it, Yeosang had a point. She was still young, and the future felt like a vast, uncharted sea.

“I just… I don’t want to lose him,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

“You won’t,” Yeosang reassured her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Mingi’s not going anywhere. You’ve got time, YN. Don’t let fear make you rush into a decision. Trust that the right moment will come when it’s meant to.”

She nodded slowly, her gaze still fixed on the floor. “Thanks, Yeosang. I… I’ll think about what you said.”

He smiled faintly, giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze. “That’s all I ask. Now, go get some rest. You’ve caused enough chaos for one day.”

She laughed lightly, the weight on her chest lifting just a little. As she walked away, she couldn’t help but feel grateful for her brother’s honesty and support. Even if she didn’t have all the answers yet, she knew she had time—and the people who cared about her to guide her along the way.

The sound of tennis balls being hit back and forth echoed through the royal court the next morning. Yeosang and Mingi were engaged in a competitive match, their banter as sharp as their serves. Despite the casual atmosphere, Mingi could sense there was something on Yeosang’s mind.

“Nice shot,” Yeosang said as Mingi delivered a powerful forehand that he barely managed to return.

“You’re getting slow, Yeosang,” Mingi teased, smirking as he prepared for the next serve.

“Not slow,” Yeosang retorted, adjusting his stance. “Just distracted.”

Mingi raised an eyebrow but said nothing, focusing on his serve. He sent the ball flying across the court, and Yeosang returned it with surprising force. The rally continued for a while before Yeosang finally missed, and Mingi stepped forward, spinning his racket casually.

“All right,” Mingi said, tilting his head. “What’s on your mind?”

Yeosang sighed, walking to the side to grab his water bottle. “It’s YN,” he said simply.

Mingi tensed slightly but kept his expression neutral. “What about her?”

Yeosang took a sip of water, then leaned against the net, looking directly at his friend. “She told me last night that she doesn’t want to marry anyone but you.”

Mingi froze for a split second before letting out a quiet sigh. “I know,” he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “She told me the same thing yesterday.”

Yeosang raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “And?”

“And… I told her that’s not how it works,” Mingi said firmly, his voice calm but resolute. “She’s still young. She doesn’t fully understand what she’s saying. It’s just… attachment. She’s known me her whole life, so she thinks I’m the answer to everything.”

Yeosang studied him for a moment, his expression unreadable. “You’re probably right,” he said eventually, setting his bottle down. “But that doesn’t change the fact that she’s serious about how she feels.”

Mingi sighed again, sitting on the bench and resting his elbows on his knees. “I know. And that’s what worries me. I don’t want her to make decisions she might regret later. She’s a princess, Yeosang. Her life is already so complicated, and she deserves better than—”

“Don’t finish that sentence,” Yeosang interrupted, walking over to stand in front of him. “If you’re about to say she deserves better than you, don’t. Because it’s not true.”

Mingi blinked, clearly taken aback. “Yeosang, I’m just her bodyguard. You really think—”

“I think you’re one of the best people I’ve ever met,” Yeosang said firmly, crossing his arms. “And I think my sister deserves someone who will treat her with the care and respect you’ve shown her every single day of her life. Do I think she’s too young to be thinking about marriage? Yes. But do I think you’re a bad choice? Absolutely not.”

Mingi stared at him, stunned into silence.

Yeosang smirked, amused by his friend’s rare speechlessness. “Honestly, I expected you to freak out more when I brought this up. But it seems like you’ve already thought this through.”

“I have,” Mingi admitted quietly. “I’ve been thinking about it ever since she first mentioned it. I just… I don’t want to cross any lines. My job is to protect her, not—”

“Not fall in love with her?” Yeosang finished, his tone teasing but not unkind.

Mingi’s eyes widened slightly, and he looked away, unsure how to respond.

Yeosang chuckled, clapping him on the shoulder. “Relax, Mingi. I’m not here to tell you to stay away from her. If anything, I’m telling you the opposite. Just… don’t rush anything. Let her grow up, figure things out for herself. If this is meant to be, it’ll happen in time.”

Mingi looked up at him, his expression softening. “You really mean that?”

“I do,” Yeosang said with a small smile. “You’re my friend, Mingi. And more importantly, you’re someone I trust. I know you’ll do what’s best for her.”

Mingi nodded, his chest feeling both lighter and heavier at the same time. “Thanks, Yeosang.”

“Don’t thank me yet,” Yeosang said with a smirk, grabbing his racket. “Now, let’s finish this game. I’m not letting you win just because we had a heartfelt moment.”

Mingi laughed, standing up and grabbing his racket. “We’ll see about that.”

As they returned to the court, Mingi couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of responsibility. Whatever the future held, he would make sure YN was happy—whether that meant staying by her side as her bodyguard or something more. For now, he’d take it one day at a time.

Months passed, and YN’s relentless determination, along with Yeosang’s support, slowly melted her parents’ hesitation. It wasn’t an easy road, but the Kang family eventually came to terms with the idea. The modern world was changing, and so were the rules of royalty. What mattered most was YN’s happiness, and it was clear that her bond with Mingi was unbreakable.

One crisp autumn morning, YN was called into the royal study. Her parents were there, seated at the same desk where she had once pleaded her case. Yeosang stood beside them, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“We’ve discussed it,” the king began, his tone gentle but formal. “And we’ve decided that if this is truly what you want, YN, we will support your choice.”

For a moment, she just stared at them, her mind struggling to process the words. Then, as the realization hit her, her face lit up with pure, uncontainable joy. “Really?” she exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement.

The queen smiled softly. “Yes, really. We only want you to be happy.”

Before they could say anything else, YN bolted out of the room, her heart racing as she ran through the palace halls. She knew exactly where to find Mingi—in the training grounds, where he often started his mornings.

As she burst into the training yard, Mingi was mid-swing, sparring with another guard. He paused when he saw her, his brow furrowing in concern. “Princess? What’s wrong?”

She didn’t answer right away, instead running straight to him and grabbing his hands. Her grin was so wide it almost hurt, and her eyes sparkled with excitement. “They said yes!” she blurted out.

Mingi blinked, caught off guard. “What?”

“My parents! They said yes!” she repeated, practically bouncing on her feet. “They’re okay with it—with us! You don’t have to just be my bodyguard anymore. We can actually—”

Her words were cut off as Mingi let out a soft laugh, his shoulders relaxing as relief and happiness washed over him. “They really said that?”

“Yes!” she exclaimed, squeezing his hands tightly. “We don’t have to hide how we feel, or worry about traditions, or anything. They’re okay with it!”

Mingi smiled down at her, his heart swelling with emotions he could barely put into words. “I’m happy for you, YN. For us.”

She laughed, the sound bright and carefree. “You’re happy? Mingi, I’m the happiest person alive right now! I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy!”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re something else, Princess.”

“Of course I am,” she said playfully, sticking her tongue out at him. “Now come on, we have to celebrate! Ice cream, movies, anything you want—just name it!”

Mingi laughed again, letting her excitement wash over him. “Whatever you want, YN. Today’s your day.”

As they walked back toward the palace, YN chattering excitedly about all the plans she wanted to make, Mingi couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. He’d always been content just being her protector, her shadow. But now, as he looked at her radiant smile and heard her joyful laughter, he realized that being by her side in this new way was more than he’d ever dreamed of.

For YN, the future felt brighter than ever. And for Mingi, there was no place he’d rather be than right there beside her, no matter what came next.

Taglist: @jonghosbrainrot

[sweetbans29]

Out - CC

Pairing: Caitlin Clark x Reader

Summary: You show Caitlin there is more to love and she shows you the world isn't as scary as it seems (based on THIS and THIS request)

Warnings: none that I can think of - fluff

Word Count: 3.6k

Sweetbans Masterlist

If someone were to ask you what your spirit animal was, you would say an elephant. Generally not an animal you would think of when it comes to spirit animals but to you it made sense. On the outside, you weren't the smallest - definitely the most built on the team, but on the inside you were loyal, protected your own, and provided an overwhelming sense of stability to those around you.

If you were to ask someone what they thought your spirit animal was, they would probably say something deadly or that lacked heart. But if you were to ask anyone who genuinely knew you - they would speak to your gentle nature.

You weren't a part of the Iowa basketball team but had quickly become friends with Molly who was on the team. She learned quite fast that you really enjoyed keeping to yourself. The two of you met in the gym one night at like 2AM. Molly liked going in that late to avoid anyone bugging her and you liked it for the quiet. Most nights it was just the two of you with the occasional 3rd or 4th person joining. That is what started your friendship - sharing a similar schedule. She was super easy going and never pushed you too far out of your comfort zone.

Being friends with Molly included hanging out with her team. For some reason, they had taken a liking to you and would invite you to all team events which Molly would drag you to. You weren't the outgoing type like Jada and Gabby, but complimented the team well. It was cool being able to hang out with such a fun group and they loved you because you treated all of them with love and respect.

You soon became someone the team would always want around. You would always listen to their problems and make sure they were safe. It was like you became the team's own personal bodyguard.

During games, they would want you right behind the bench. At first, you didn't understand why, but as the season progressed it was evident why they wanted you there. It all started on their first loss of the season.

Kate was typically the one who was able to keep everyone's head on their shoulders but for this game, she was having a particularly hard time doing so. She came over and sat at the end of the bench and you noticed how her demeanor was one of defeat.

You reached forward and gave her arm a little squeeze to comfort her. The second she felt your arm on hers she began to break down. She got up and started walking to the tunnel - coaches yelling at her to get back over to the bench. She just kept walking and you followed her, waving at the coaches signaling you got her (which you have no idea why you did considering you have never talked to them).

Kate is crouched down in the tunnel trying to compose herself but is having a hard time doing so. You weren't far enough in the tunnel to be shielded from the court but in enough that it was ever so slightly more quiet.

You crouch down to her level and grab her arms. You begin to take deep steady breaths which she slowly begins to match.

"I don't get it - it is like they are always three steps ahead of us all the time. Even with Caitlin's play-making, we can't keep up with them." Kate says trying to comb through all the plays that their team had been making.

"You guys have played 4 games in the last 6 days, give yourself a little break. You are tired and worn and haven't had a solid practice in the last week." You say trying to get her to see that it has less to do with their skill and more to do with their exhaustion.

You help her stand and bring her in for a hug.

"As much as you want to win, the only thing that is important now is leading your team and you could do that in your sleep. Don't kill yourself trying to win the battle, focus on winning the war." You say and she nods.

"I see why we have you close by during games," Kate says with a little smile. You smile back and pat her back as she goes to take the court again.

You follow her out and take your seat.

What you didn't see during that interaction was how it drew Caitlin's attention. She watched as you calmed down her best friend and restored her confidence. Caitlin took note of how Kate came back out encouraging the team and ready to finish the game even though it would be a loss on their record. Watching you there only added to the confusing feelings that she was feeling for you.

From then on, nobody questioned your game attendance. The girls would use you as an outlet during games when they would get in their heads. The only one who would rarely come up to you would be Caitlin.

You never questioned it as the girl held herself well most of the time - she was a feisty one on the court but once she sat on the bench would compose herself.

Little to your knowledge, she thinks about you almost constantly now. There have been several times during games that she feels like you would be the perfect person to calm her down but is nervous about showing her competitive side (not that you couldn't already see that on the floor). It wasn't until she was sick during a game and had to play that you decided to take the initiative.

It was an away game and Caitlin had been violently ill. During the game, you could see the toll it was taking on her. You heard her talking to Kate earlier about how she didn't have a choice in playing. There were people there who had paid hundreds of dollars to see her and it was also the game she could potentially break the NCAA shooting record. She was going to play.

Caitlin had an incredible opening half, allowing her to rest a little in the half. She is sitting in one of the chairs with her head in her hands. You weren't even supposed to be back there but you were talking with Molly on the way back.

Seeing her sit there so helpless had you feeling some sort of way. You grab a Gatorade and tap her arm with it.

She looks up at you then at what you are offering her. It takes her a second to register what she is looking at. You take the top off the bottle and pass it over to her. She takes it from your hand and drinks half the bottle - sighing when it parts from her lips.

You put the cap on the bottle and pat her back.

Neither of you said a word but there was a mutual understanding.

The team goes back out and Caitlin struggles. The whole team does. The final score was 79-81, a loss for the Hawkeyes.

When they came back in Caitlin was on one. Saying that their team was better than that and that they should have beaten them. She was right but that doesn't change the outcome. Once she is done going on her rampage, the fatigue sets in.

The team is heading the bus and you can see she stops and puts her hand on the wall to stabilize her. She would never admit to needing help but in this moment - she needed help.

You walk over to her - again not saying a word and wrap your arm around her waist. She leans into you and continues walking.

"You're almost there kid," you whisper to her as you approach the bus.

You guide her to the steps, letting her go up first. Your hands fall to her waist, ensuring she doesn't miss any steps.

As much as Caitlin hates being sick, she is glad she is because no one would question her rose cheeks or burning skin. Both reactions to you helping her.

When you get on the bus, she is hopeful that you will sit by her.

You don't, opting to sit next to Molly which causes the feeling of disappointment to build within no. 22.

Both Kate and Molly notice Caitlin's disappointment, taking mental notes.

Following that interaction Caitlin begins to make more of a point to talk to you and try to get to know you. She talks to Kate about the feelings that she is getting for you and Kate walks her through her first girl crush. Caitlin would always make a point to see how you are doing and thank you for being at their games, even though she still wouldn't come up to you when she needed someone during a game.

One of the bigger turning points that solidified Caitlin's love for you was when you were at the Ohio State game.

It was another Iowa loss, one they probably could have had if there was a little more cohesiveness within the team (not that you were a coach of any sorts). At the end of the game, Ohio students began to storm the floor causing a slight panic in the players to get off the floor.

You saw Caitlin and a few girls started heading back to the locker room and were right behind them when a girl from the crowd came and ran directly into Caitlin.

Caitlin goes flying on the ground and doesn't get up. Within a second, you are by her side. You are crouched next to her with your hand on her waist.

She is trying to refill her lungs with air and she does, grabs her neck.

"Come on kid, we need to get you out of here," you say and you effortlessly lift her to her feet. One of her arms goes around you to stabilize herself while Jada is on the other side helping. You are pushing people out of the way to get her back to the locker as fast as you can. She is walking which is a good sign, but she is grimacing pretty hard.

Once you make it back, you take her directly to the trainers who are there and they check her out. You don't leave her side when they do. Her eyes are closed and she keeps rubbing her head. They give her an ice pack and tell her to wait there until they load up to the bus.

You are sitting in a chair next to the table Caitlin is laying on and are looking at your phone. After the trainers leave, one of her hands comes down and grabs yours.

"Thank you," she says, eyes still closed.

"They shouldn't have let students storm the court like that, that was crazy. Someone better be talking to the school about that - that's just not okay." You say, your protective nature kicking in.

"If you weren't there it could have been a lot different, thank you." She says again.

"You know I am always here, I got you, kid," you say. "I've got the whole team."

Caitlin nods, hoping you would get her hint but you didn't.

Later that week Caitlin is talking to Kate about after the game and Kate sort of puts CC on blast.

"Caitlin, there was absolutely no hint in what you said at all," Kate says with a laugh and Caitlin hides her face in her hands and groans.

"I don't know how to do this," Caitlin says. "I have never tried to hit on a girl before, let alone anyone like her. She is perfect." The last part is muffled but Kate still hears it.

"Also, I never let anyone near me when I am sick or when I'm hurt and she has been there both times. You would think she would take that alone as a hint." CC says.

"Caitlin. That is normal behavior. Anyone looking in would say that is normal friend behavior." Kate is trying not to laugh but can't help it watching her friend figure out how to talk to you.

"What am I supposed to do?" Caitlin practically yells. "I am not going to go straight up to her and be like, 'Hi, I like you, let's go out'. That would be embarrassing."

"Maybe try taking a less subtle approach, like asking her to sit next to you when we are out or do something while we are together as a team," Kate says trying to encourage her best friend.

Caitlin nods.

The next time the team is together, Caitlin make sure to ask you prior if you are going to be there. She tries to be more bold and asks when you are meeting Molly after practice.

When Caitlin comes running up to you before you can walk away with Molly and asks if you are joining the team for their game night.

"Of course I'll be there kid," you say with a small smile.

Caitlin nods and says she looks forward to it. You continue walking with Molly and Cait runs back to the other girls.

Molly laughs.

"What?" You ask confused.

"Nothing - nothing," she says and you guys go to study before heading out to Kate's apartment.

That night Caitlin spends most of her time around you. Whether it is talking in the same group or playing with you in a game. You really enjoyed getting to know the girl and seeing her lighter side off the court. The night as a whole was fun.

As the weeks progressed, you noticed Caitlin was spending more time with you and would often ask for your help with things but didn't think much of it.

What you did notice was how she brought you out of your shell more. Not that you were always in it but you found yourself laughing more and being more involved when she sought hanging out with you. You felt lighter around her.

It was when the team decided to have a night out that Caitlin was fed up with your lack of acknowledging her effort.

The team was out at a bar when you noticed Caitlin hadn't said a word to you all night. If it was three months ago, you wouldn't question her lack of interaction but since getting to know her it had you confused.

You are standing with Molly, Jada, and Kate when you decide to ask if you have done something wrong.

"Did I do something to make Caitlin mad?" You ask. You had no intention of ever making her feel that way but she had been avoiding you so you couldn't ask her directly.

"Are you serious?" Jada asks with a laugh. Molly and Kate just look at each other.

"Wait, she doesn't know?" Jada now is looking between Kate and Molly.

"What do I not know? What did I do?" You say. "if I did something wrong I need to know so I can go apologize." You are now looking around to see if you can find Caitlin.

"I told CC to make it more obvious and she has, I mean the whole team has noticed," Kate says putting her hands up in defense.

"Wait the whole team knows?" You say. "Please just tell me, I need to make sure I didn't upset her. I know she can get really upset and there is no need her for to be stressed because of me."

Molly grabs your shoulders and looks you dead in the eye.

"She loves you dumbass," Molly says.

"I know, I love her too. I thought that was known. I love the whole team, that's why I spend most of my time with you all. And because you sort of force me," you say.

Kate jumps in.

"No, you idiot. Caitlin is quite literally in love with you. Like almost to the point of obsession," Kate says as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

You stand there confused.

"She has liked you for the past few months and thought by hanging out with you more you would figure it out...but by the look on your face it seems like you had no idea," Jada says.

You shake your head no. Caitlin likes you? You didn't even know Caitlin was into girls. Your head was spinning and between the music and the newfound fact that Caitlin likes you, you are overwhelmed.

You excuse yourself and head out the door to get some fresh air. Your mind begins to go back. Yes, Caitlin has been more present with you lately but nothing screamed 'I like you' from any of her interactions. Think harder - you tell yourself. When did that change? Maybe it was when you helped her when she got bodied on the court?

Caitlin is a beautiful woman, she has a kind heart, loves to mess around, and is beyond competitive. Her love for the game did captivate you. And her love for all the young girls she is inspiring does swell your heart.

What are you doing? Of course, you like the girl but why did it take so long to realize?

"Hey, I saw you head out - are you okay?" Caitlin pulls you out of your thoughts.

You turn to face her. Your eyes meet hers and she holds a genuine look of concern.

You step towards her and graze her arm. When you do, the hairs on it rise. Her eyes don't leave yours but you notice how her breath hitches. Your hand drops and she breaks your eye contact looking down at your hand.

She wants to ask why you removed it.

"Caitlin," you begin and her eyes close.

She knows. She knows you know. She doesn't want to see the rejection in your eyes which is why she closed hers. She doesn't know how she could be so dumb. It is not like she could stop her feelings. Caitlin saw the way other girls looked at you, not that you ever noticed but she did. They would fawn over you and it killed her. You could essentially be with any girl so why would you be with her? A girl who didn't even know she was into girls until you came along and showed her there is more to love.

Caitlin tells herself she will not cry and she stands there - eyes closed and holding it together by a thread.

You look down at her and just admire her. She is trying so hard to keep her breathing steady. Her hands are by her side and you can see she is trying to hold it together.

You gently grab her hand and give it a little squeeze hoping she will open her eyes and look at you. She doesn't.

"Caitlin, look at me please," you say in a soft tone. It takes her a second but she finally looks up at you.

"You are beautiful," you say. "Why didn't you say anything?"

She shrugs - this is your first time seeing her insecure.

"This is all new to me," she says. "I didn't know how to navigate the feelings." She looks down.

"Say it." You say, not really sure why you need her to say that she likes you. Her head whips up.

"Please say it," you practically beg. You see her swallow.

"I like you," she says. "I like you a lot. So much that it scares me and I don't know what to do with myself. And if you just had me say that to make fun of me that is so high school and is not cool."

"Caitlin, you know me better than that." You say. "I like you too, a lot."

Finally, a smile breaks on her face.

"Wait really?" She says - her confidence restoring by the second.

You nod with a little laugh.

Time begins to slow and you bring your hand comes up to caress her cheek.

"Can I kiss you?" You ask looking into her eyes once again.

Caitlin doesn't trust her voice and nods.

Leaning in, her eyes close. You stop right before your lips meet hers you stop. You take in the sight of her before closing your own eyes and connecting your lips.

The kiss isn't crazy, it's slow and questioning. Caitlin's hands come to grab your shirt, bringing you closer to her. She wants more but you don't want to rush her and pull away. A little whine escapes her lips and you laugh.

"You're cute," you tell her and she pulls you into a hug.

"Stoppp," she says as she buries her head into the crook of your neck all while trying to bring you closer to her. Your arms wrap around her waist and you lift her up slightly, swinging her side to side.

The two of you decide to spend the rest of the night talking. You find a bench outside of the bar and talk through everything that has led up to this moment and how she thought she was being so obvious. You countered by telling her you are completely oblivious.

The two of you spent hours talking - only stopping when the rest of the team stumbles out.

You and Caitlin follow behind the group. Your hand finds hers and intertwines your fingers. She leans into you with a stupid smile on her face. She wouldn't hide it even if she could.

You see Molly and Kate look back at the two of you.

"About freaking time!" Jada yells.

AN: I tried to do the best of both worlds - hope you liked it! Let me know what you think. And as always, thank you for your love and support 🤍

[goreandbunnies]

⛧☾༒︎ 𝔇𝔢𝔳𝔬𝔱𝔦𝔬𝔫 ༒︎☽⛧

Sukuna x Reader, Toji x Reader

Summary ๋࣭ ⭑⚝"Almost six months after meeting him, I had finally managed to escape. At least that's what I thought, hidden in that alley, holding my breath and waiting for the search party to get further away from my spot. But this city was his, he had eyes everywhere. I needed to leave as far away as I could."

Warnings ๋࣭ ⭑⚝ Explicit language, sexual explicit scenes, sexual assault, drugs and alcohol, explicit violent scenes, gun violence, emotional and physical manipulation, dub-con, mentions of cults, blood and blood play, knife play.

Word count ๋࣭ ⭑⚝ 10.5k (in progress)

Dividers by @animatedglittergraphics-n-more & @cafekitsune

𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 2

I might have been a loner but each time I got into a crowd to dance - I came alive. Despite having a rather large group of friends thanks to Amy, I had always felt like an outcast. Not with my best friend, she made me feel at home, yet when the group gathered, they all seemed to be a part of something I could never understand. 

The heavy beats and bass vibrated through me as the girls and I danced pressed together, soon joined by Ben and his squad. Amy and Ben immediately got together and stepped away to dance, leaving the rest of us on our own. 

From time to time, I glanced over at the tall stranger, arms still crossed, leaning against a wall. I wondered what he was waiting for, he wasn’t talking to anyone or looking for friends. He just stood there and- 

“God, you’re such a tease when you dance like that,” a warm breath brushed my neck from behind and I immediately stepped away in utter disgust, shaking and frowning.

Brad stood there, surrounded by his friends dancing, oblivious as to what was going on a couple of feet away from them. They had been ignoring his behavior for years, but I wouldn’t put up with him any longer.

Reluctantly, I walked away from the dancefloor, and back to the deserted bar where I ordered a drink to drown my annoyance. I didn’t want to leave the party early and let him win, that night was important to Amy and I’d stayed as long as she wanted me to. Yet I couldn’t stay around this asshole and risking him to grope me. 

Sitting down, I sipped my drink as I looked around, searching for the stranger from earlier but noticed that he was gone, probably headed home at last. Good for him. 

The VIP section was the upper floor of the club, having its own dancefloor, booths, tables and bar, but as I waited for Brad to get away, I was surprised to see another floor above us, a massive gigantic balcony overlooking the area and the entire club. 

And standing up there was the stranger, next to probably one of the most beautiful men I had ever seen. He stood there, forearms resting against the railing, like a king watching over his people, his kingdom. I found myself unable to look away from him, even in the dim lights of the club, he looked like a deity. 

He seemed to be just about the same height and built as his companion, but the resemblance ended there. If the first one looked like raw violence, rage incarnate, the second’s features were pristine - almost boyish, even with the lines and symbols inked on his face, his square jaw and pinkish hair. 

I couldn’t help but compare him to a modern version of Lucifer, unable to tell if he was an angel or the devil himself. One look had been enough to captivate me entirely, making the club and the rest of the crowd disappear for a second.

 The guy from earlier stood by him like a bodyguard and I wondered if they owned the place before realizing that both men were looking right back at me, their gazes burning through the club’s atmosphere, pink haired Lucifer smirking down at me.

Looking away, cheeks burning from the embarrassment, I turned back to the dance floor, where a very insistent Brad was coming back towards me. 

“Fuck,” I breathed, jumping off my stool to run away to the ladies’ room, but he was quicker and got ahold of me before I reached the door. His hand wrapped around my arm and squeezed a little too hard, causing me to wince in pain.

“You’re staying right here, you little bitch,” he spat, pulling me against his chest and scurrying me towards the men’s bathroom.

“Let go,” I cried, fighting his hold on me with all the strength I had. 

It wasn’t the first time Brad had tried to get me alone, we often ended up attending the same parties. But this time, my throat closed in horror and fear as he shoved me inside the men’s room, locking the door behind us. The bathroom was desperately empty, no one there to hear me scream for help. Our friends were too wasted or too busy having fun to notice one of us had disappeared.

By the time he’d be done with me, no one would’ve noticed, I thought, horrified. I walked backwards until my back hit the wall, where he cornered me.

“Please, don’t…” I shrunk against the wall, wishing I could merge with the tiles and disappear. 

“Don’t what?” He asked, running a finger down my exposed chest. “Take what I’m owed, after all those years?” He frowned, his foul, alcohol stenched breath brushing my face, dangerously close to mine. 

“I’m not-” I began, whispering and tilting my head away from his. 

In a heartbeat, one of his hands grabbed my hair and smacked the back of my head against the wall and I saw stars - his other hand wrapped around my mouth, his hips painfully pinning me in place.

The pain at the back of my head radiated through my skull in waves, I could barely open my eyes anymore, much less fight back against Brad’s assaults. Tears pooled down my cheeks as I braced myself through the pain and Brad’s slimy lips on my chest, his fingers digging in my cleavage.

A loud crashing noise split my painful brain in half, I winced in pain, cursing Brad, but his hands and mouth had disappeared from my body. I was free. The next second, I dropped on the floor, surprisingly comfortable and warm, before I passed out. 

I woke up what felt like a split second later on what felt like a leather couch, the music from the club snuffed out as if I was in a soundproof room. I sat up abruptly, reviving the pain in my skull and quietly crying out in pain. A few seconds later, the pain settled down and I managed to open my eyes at last.

I was sitting in a dimly lit room, all black and chrome furniture and decorations like the rest of the club, but it looked more like a private room than another part of the club. 

I enjoyed the quiet for a second before I remembered why I was there in the first place. Brad, the bathroom, the crashing noise. Looking down at my dress, I noticed someone had removed the pink sash and replaced it with a large black suit jacket that had kept me warm. 

On the couch next to me was an ice pack, probably placed over my head as I was passed out. Frowning, I looked around, finally realizing where I was, right when the two strangers entered the room, knuckles covered in blood.

Copyright © goreandbunnies, bitchcraft18 2024, all rights reserved, do not repost, use or plagiarize. Do not translate.

Taglist ♥ @sweetlandspos @tojislittleprincesss @paradisestarfishh @unheavenlypacked

[all4aoki]

  ⊹ 𝓟ICK 𝓤P ˒ ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ𝓟ICK 𝓤P ⠀Ꮺ ָ࣪ ۰ ִ

a look inside of Aoki YN`s phone . . . enha x f!reader, poly!enha, enha8thmember ↺ 𝓛ibrary ࣪ ۪ ♡ᱹ

©all4aoki, 2024

ꔫ ˖ 개인 || ⵌ PERSONAL ?? model white iphone 13 lock screen you n ur boys home screen cute aesthetic layout you copied from tiktok case the ‘kitten around’ case by wallflower

᱖ Before you had this phone, you had an iPhone XR which you were pretty happy with. However, your sister got a new phone for one Christmas, so your parents got you a new one too. You’ve been using it ever since and with how often you drop it, it’s surprising that it’s gone so long without cracking. This current phone you have was given to you before the pink version of the iPhone was released, so unfortunately, you didn’t get that cute baby pink color. However, you’re content with the white that your parents picked out for you since white goes with everything.

Your lock screen is just of ot7 Enhypen and you (aka you and your boyfriends). Honestly, the picture isn’t anything special, but it’s still one of your favorites. It’s just such a cute picture. and your home screen was one you found on TikTok. Being a huge fan of anything pleasing on the eye, you adapted the style to your own electronic immediately and haven’t changed it since.

Sunoo got you your phone case for your most recent birthday. Originally, you wanted the Wallflower case that had the design of pointe shoes and ribbons, but it had been sold out in the iPhone 13 size for what felt like forever. So, Sunoo chose a different design and you ended up liking it even more than the first.

You have all of your socials and games located on this phone. Honestly, there isn’t a huge difference between this phone and your work phone, apart from this one containing the contacts of your family and non-idol friends. That being said, you rarely bring this phone out in public with you now both because of your group’s partnership with Samsung. Also, as the years have gone on, your privacy has become more and more important to you.

ꔫ ˖ 작업 || ⵌ WORK ?? model silver samsung galaxy flip4 lock screen you n ENGENE home screen plain layout case clear hello kitty case ordered from etsy

᱖ You had firmly believed that you would’ve never gotten a Samsung phone. This was only because phones are expensive and you’ve always had an iPhone that worked so there was no point dropping 1000+ dollars on a new one. But when Enhypen began endorsing Samsung, you had to get one. You decided on one of the flip phones because it was the same style your mom had and because you’d been influenced by watching ‘Business Proposal’ ><

Fans will zoom in on videos or take peeks in public to observe your guys’ phones so you weren’t able to make your lock screen a picture of your boys and you. But you settled for the next best thing: a cute interaction between you and ENGENE at one of Enhypen’s comeback shows! As for your home screen, you left the layout mostly basic. only adding some things like cute pictures, a calendar, etc.

You’ve always been a huge Sanrio fan, so it only made sense for you to have a phone case that was related to it in some way. You had planned on getting one with Cinnamoroll on it, but after finding two matching cases with Hello Kitty on them, you just had to get them. You have the clear version and Sangmi has the black version! Fans think it’s adorable that you both have matching cases. It was only an added plus that the cases came with an added charm to help you carry your phones around.

This work phone also has games on it, but you don’t have any socials on it except for Instagram and EN-line (like Phoning, but for enha!). Most of the time the staff films TikToks for you and posts selcas on Twitter, so you didn’t bother with downloading the apps on this phone. The only contacts you have on this phone are your members and your staff (manager, stylist & bodyguards).

ꔫ ˖ 연락처 // CONTACTS ⵌ !! whore 1 (affectionate) heeseung 쭌이! / jjongie! jay / whore 2 (affectionate) jake 남편🗣️ / hubby🗣️ sunghoon 꿀벌☺️ / honeybee☺️ sunoo 양양🌷 / yangyang🌷 jungwon no.1 sasaeng!👽 ni-ki

ꔫ ˖ EN라인 || ⵌ EN-LINE ??

᱖ Very similar to Phoning for NewJeans (except this was released before they even debuted :P) and Weverse. Except it’s solely for Enhypen and ENGENE!

Main features include… Data & Voice Lines (messages between members and voice notes you’re able to leave for fans); Physical Media (photo albums for each member); Class Schedule (calendars each member can post updates on like what they’re doing for the day, if they plan to go live, etc); Audio Transmission (where the members can make and share playlists / what kind of music you’re listening to or creating); SIGENAL (video lives); and DARK MOON (contains all Webtoon and stories related to Enhypen’s lore)

There is a premium version of the app called EN-Line+ but there are quite a few benefits that come with it! For example, it allows ENGENES to access chat rooms that are separated into ‘clubs’ and they can talk to each other. Sometimes you and your members join the convo, but it’s more fun to watch everything happen. This version of the app also gives exclusive BTS content on vlogs, concerts, filmings, etc. And! For every month ENGENEs are subscribed to EN-Line+, they get the option of 2 photocards and 2 other pieces of merch that are exclusive to the app!

마리셀의 노트 , just a little smthing while I finish up some other works☺️🌷thank you all so much for your patience and for the support!💕😻

[maliciousblog]

NCT Dream as your saesangs +

SungTaro / NCT U

Jeno (Bodyguard) 🎀

He would be your manager or your bodyguard that way he could always be by your side and keep an eye on you.

Each time you tried to interact with someone he would stop you.

Each time you tried to go out alone he would accompany you. He never left you alone.

It started to get on your nerve, one day you snapped when he insisted on accompanying you to the clothing store, you told him that you could take care of yourself and didn't have to be babysitted you could tell that he was taken aback by what you said.

To which he replied that he was only trying to keep you safe and was just doing his best to make sure nothing bad happened to you.

You started to feel guilty as he started to guilt trip you, which was exactly what he wanted.

You gave into whatever he wanted as he started to manipulate you and each time you questioned him he would guilt trip you into being the bad guy.

Jaemin ( the problematic fansite)💝

He was a well known fansite. He would always take the best pictures, he would always be the first one to reach events, the first to take pictures. At first it was just pictures of you at concerts or fansigns.

Soon it became pictures of you at private schedule's or of you in front of your dorm or of you on the way to the company. Then it became pictures of you when you hung out with your family or friends. Then it became pictures of you going about your life whether it be of you on a grocery run or of you walking your dog.

What alarmed you the most was a picture of you in your room you never took a picture like this, you soon started to get paranoid.

He loved the look of terror on your face as you saw the pictures he took.

He would edit the pictures he took of you with himself to make it seem like both of you were a couple, he would even make the occasional deepfake.

Renjun (fatal)💓

No one would possibly suspect him. He would show up everywhere you went.

He would run a fan account dedicated to you. He would constantly defend you, no matter what.

Once he happened to catch an a well known anti that always spread false rumors about you a couple of days later no one heard of the anti ever again. No matter who the problem was it just magically dissapeared. A staff member that was a little rude to you the next day they didn't come. A choreographer that got a little too touchy magically dissapeared. When one of your group members got more lines than you they "accidentally" fell down the stairs.

It had become a hobby for him now, in the end he didn't know if he was doing it for you or for his own sick pleasure.

Chenle(fan boy)💖

Would also be a singer and would probably be your friend.

He would try his hardest to get collab stages with you.

He was a true fanboy he would promote you more than he would promote himself.

He would secretly enjoy the fans shipping both of you. In fact he would go out of his way to make it happen by trying to maintain eye contact with you during shows, or buying the same things you did to make it seem as if you were a couple, even go as far as to start rumors himself and leak pictures of you.

He would eventually ask you out, but when you rejected him that was the last anyone ever saw of you.

Jisung (puppy)💕

Would be a love sick puppy. Heart eyes , he would mostly be harmless a total shy fan boy.

Would be obsessed with you would do everything in his power to make sure you succeed.

It would start out as an innocent little crush would slowly turn into a dangerous obsession.

His walls would be filled with posters of you. To you he only seemed like a harmless fanboy but the more you saw him around the more uneasy you felt. No one would  believe you, cause everyone only saw him as a cute harmless fanboy.

Sungchan (delusional)🎀

Would have you as his lock wallpaper. Would never miss a live.

Would be extremely delusional.

In his mind you and him were already dating and nothing or no one could change his mind.

He would get angry any time someone mentioned the fact that you were an idol and he was just a fan and there is no way that you two could be together and at the end of the day that's all he would ever be he would just be one  among the millions of fans you had.

Unfortunately he would refuse to accept this fact and would live in the delusion that you were his. When news broke out that you were dating a fellow idol, all hell broke loose. That would be his breaking point. He would make you his whether you liked it or not.

Shotaro (dancer)💖

He would be a popular dancer who would cover popular songs that's how he came across you.

He would watch one of your dance practice videos and would be enamored by your grace and skill.

From being an occasional listener to a fan his obsession would steadily grow.

He would dance cover every single one of your songs and would even make choreo to the ones that didn't have it. On many occasions you would notice him and would be impressed with his skill.

He would find a way for your company to hire him as your new choreographer as your last one got into a nasty accident.

[spadesolace]

drag me down: fool for you

synopsis: you've seen it all, from family problems to being accused of cheating, and bullying... what more can you handle when the girl you love hates your guts?

warning/s: bullying, parental absence, honestly just full on perspective of y/n.

words: 1.8k

previous | next

You’ve seen it all.

The fact that your own distant relatives fight for the claims of your family’s hard work, the way your parents are always gone and going on business trips, or the very fact that the girl you like hates your guts.

Your parents decided that it would be safe never to expose you and your sister to the public unless you choose to partake in the family business. That conversation has not seen the light of day, and you choose to keep it that way. The other reason is that your very own relatives try to drag your name down. Jealousy, hunger for power, and mostly greed, was the driving factor.  

Although given the circumstances, all you could do is understand your parents. The rare occurrences that they’re at home, giving you gifts from their travels ranging from books to puzzles, up until when you hit highschool they settled on giving you practical gifts, one that is the best of the best. That doesn’t mean your request for books regarding the business and law of each country they visit is looked upon. Somehow those interests made your parents provide even more than what you requested, a few lego sets so as to not make it feel as if you’re slowly becoming an adult.

It was compensation for missing your childhood years, holidays spent alone in the gigantic mansion you call home, watching home alone and wishing to do the same thing as Kevin. The definition of family is blurry when you never felt it with your own, yet you’re glad Jihyo’s family came through. All of the relatives residing within the village have collectively helped to raise you, from playing games, experiencing grazing your knee on the floor from playing chase with your cousins, and opening gifts on christmas day. Forever grateful for your relatives that wishes you nothing but peace and safety.

At the age of 10, it was as if your prayers were heard, your mother was pregnant with Hyejoo. For two years, the Parks were complete, business trips were handled by their right hand man, home cooked meals when you come home from school, and them actually helping you with your homeworks. It was bliss, you felt it being a true family, even being scolded made it feel like the real deal. Around the same time, a girl in your class had become your friend.

With the absence of your parents, it was a common topic going around that you were abandoned, an orphan, which led to bullies. Some days, it was just a few words thrown at you, but it was the first that you were cornered, the mischievous look, the scissors in their hands. Who knew grade schoolers could be dangerous. That was until a girl around your age alerted the closest teacher there was seeing the scenario slowly unfold. Luckily there was no harm done to you or else your parents would have sued the group of kids’ parents. The girl in front of you offered her hand, a soft smile yet worry was evident in her face.

“Hi. I’m Seol Yoona. What’s your name?” It was the first time you’ve heard her speak, despite sitting next to each other for days.

“Uh… my name is Park YN.” Sullyoon, your best friend, the first person you knew you could trust with your life. For years, you were together, she was keeping you safe as you provided the extra protection that is your bodyguard.

High school started, things turned for the worst, Hyejoo grew up with no parental figure, Sullyoon transferred schools, and you’re back to being alone. Weird part of it all, that was when you started showing interest in business, specifically in cafes. First year of high school consisted of doing extracurriculars, such as debate club, soccer; and going to Blueming cafe to work on brewing, baking, and the business aspect of it all. It was peace, Hyejoo kept you company at home, letting your inner child out as you took care of her.

There was something missing, a conversation you had with Jihyo. Sullyoon wasn’t there to keep you company, even if she had free time, she would stay at your place and play with Hyejoo, updating you on life. Jihyo cared for you so deeply that she was willing to help you with your dilemma without you knowing how it happened.

You never knew how Jihyo managed to convince your parents to let you transfer schools, but clearly she was doing some investigation on the students in your batch. In your second year of high school, you met Chaewon on your first day. She was older than you, a bit feisty, but she was fun to be with as you conversed about your experience in your old school. Slowly, you met Yunjin, Chaewon’s best friend and partner in mischief, the first friend you met who can speak english. Lastly was Kazuha and Eunchae, you were invited to lunch by Yunji. You were glad that orientation gave you a chance to spend your first week with the four.

Although you sometimes visited cafe to hone your brewing and latte art skills, that was where you met Sakura. Aside from Sullyoon, she was the second person who knew of your family, it’s the least she could do while studying and doing part-time in a foreign country. That was how your small circle came to be, Sullyoon was your classmate again, gained new friends you could trust without it being a connection from your parents.

Once the actual classes started for your new school, your eyes laid upon the most beautiful girl you’ve seen aside from your friends, she had your attention.

Pham Hanni, a pretty name for a pretty girl.

Luckily for you, Park and Pham weren’t that far off. Despite introducing yourself already in front of the class, you still did it. They did say first impressions leave an impact.

“Hi, I’m Park Y/N.”

“Pham Hanni.”

You believed that things could get better, that Pham Hanni could be your friend and someone you could trust. She’s pretty, smart, and immediately caught your heart. Messing with her was fun, from lowkey trying to one up her, joining her extracurriculars just to be close to her, and always sitting next to her despite it having no seating arrangements. For you, it was all fun and games with a hint of flirtatious banter because Pham Hanni has you wrapped around her finger. 

Things couldn’t get any better but all hopes and dreams were shattered from a single rumour, a single accusation, all of it coming from her mouth.

“Just admit it, Y/N! YOU CHEATED!” Does she hate you that much to accuse you of such things? It’s not in your character to cheat or anything that would possibly bring your name down, despite the absence of your parents, you had a good upbringing. But this accusation was a bit too much for you.

Weeks of multiple discussions with the Prefect of Discipline and the Principal. Only led to one conclusion, you were innocent as to who planted the information, it was still left for discussion. From there on, you avoided her at all cost, sure sitting next to her isn’t completely avoiding her but you had no other choice. If it weren’t for the rumours you heard of people planning on bullying Hanni or the fact someone had already done it, you would have continued to ignore her.

Hanni never knew what could have happened if you didn’t talk to her.

Hanni never knew of your feelings since your first meeting.

Hanni never knew that you’ve fallen for her.

Even when she clearly showed her distaste for you, or how little she cares, somehow you still managed to stay and celebrate every time you two would hit a milestone. In every card you had given her, each states your appreciation for the girl, and hints of your feelings. There were no clear signs that she had read it but it was better to assume she hadn't.

So, you were out of it when Hanni showed signs of possibly reciprocating your feelings. The sudden call at 3 in the morning to tell Sullyoon everything, asking her to come over (to which she agreed only if you were going to pick her up). One of the little things you’re grateful for is that your parents had put you to driving school as soon as possible.

“You seriously better have a good explanation as to why we’re going out this late.” Sullyoon will always be your best friend, the only person you trust the most. Taking a sip of your hot chocolate as the climate slowly becomes colder as the year comes to an end, you could only look at Sullyoon with sadness in your eyes.

“I like Hanni.”

“Ok, this is indeed a good explanation. What happened? Are you ok?”

Clearly, you weren’t. Pham Hanni occupied your mind and heart and it's getting concerning to the point where you do feel the pain whenever she talks to Jungwon. The jealousy and knowing damn well that you don’t have the right to feel that way. So, no, you’re not ok.

Sullyoon listened to your rant, to how you’ve liked Hanni since sophomore year, so stopping a possible bullying from happening, to giving her letters in your anniversaries, and from the pain of seeing her with Jungwon. By the time you’re done, there are tears in your eyes as your hot chocolate is forgotten and you’re shivering from the cold.

“All this time, you never hated her?” You shook your head, not a single ounce of grudge or hatred for Hanni was in your blood.

“Even after being accused of cheating?”

“Sunoo already got his punishment for that, he was just intimidated by me taking his spot.”

Your best friend was aware of the rumours but you confirmed everything to her. Spilling your guts as if you have no other choice, growing tired of lying and keeping those feelings to yourself. She could only understand the situation; Sunoo had planted the idea that maybe the reason you transferred was because you cheated on your exams and got caught to the point supervision was needed. It pained Sullyoon to hear that, to be blamed for something she knows you would never do.

“Hanni almost got bullied because of that, if she got hurt then… there’s no one else to blame but myself.”

Years of bottled up emotions are finally out in the open, a conversation with your best friend and the moon. And maybe you were indeed a fool, falling for someone who showed little to no interest until the night before…

You were really out of it as Hanni continued to fill your thoughts and heart.

[saintmargeux]

★︎ First Meet!

female reader x task force 141

you are the new recruit of task force 141 and this is how you met everyone + what your relationship with each of them has grown to :DD

**PLEASE READ IN GOTH/RAVE PALETTE

In the beginning, it was pretty awkward between you and Task Force 141. Although you were naturally a chatty person, you found it difficult to connect with anyone on the team during your first few weeks. There was already a deep history between each of the members, and you just felt out of place next to the All-Star Lineup that was 141.

Captain John Price┆︎During your first few weeks upon joining the Task Force, you stuck to the Captain like glue. He was the one who admitted you, and the only person you felt comfortable around. Of course, he expressed his concern over your hesitant nature — but Ghost was pretty much the same when he first joined, so he passed it off as first day jitters. Sure enough, as time went by you began to warm up to Price, as well as the group. In a way, Price became a sort of “father figure” to you. He was protective, he looked out for you and you often turned to him for advice. Over time he began to see you in the same way, often reaching out first to see if you were okay. Being the only woman in the group was sure to have its own struggles in itself — even though he wasn’t sure he was knowledgeable enough to help you, he would always reach out to Laswell in case anything occurred.

Calls you “Love” as a form of endearment and is totally 100% platonic.

Often pats your head when he is proud of you, or just to reassure you.

Simon “Ghost” Riley┆Ghost was pretty much your hardest obstacle to pass. He didn’t talk much, and didn’t spare you much time at first. Plus you knew how infamous Simon Riley was — and to be honest, he made you nervous just a tiny bit. But after being paired on a few missions, he grew to respect you and your skills. You were efficient, tactical and serious when working, and Ghost found missions with you to run a lot more smoothly than missions without you. Soon, Ghost was offering his assistance whenever you needed it, and you tried your best to learn as much as you could from him. Over time Ghost found out that you were quite the chatterbox, and would often find himself victim to your endless rants and tribulations. These moments he did not enjoy, but he was glad to see someone who still had optimism — even in the middle of war.

Unintentionally becomes your bodyguard, but only because he looks so intimidating when he stands behind you.

Absolutely despises it when you and Soap pair up to tell him terrible British jokes.

Can immediately tell when something is wrong with you based on your level of chatter.

Kyle “Gaz” Garrick┆It was just a natural bond with Gaz — you know, a natural solidarity. He was like a brother in arms to you, and even though the two of you didn’t speak much during the first few weeks, you’ve grown to become comfortable friends. It started off with simple greetings and nods when crossing paths. The two of you went out on some missions, which made it easier for you to converse later own. Soon after that, the two of you began to talk about everything. The easiest way to describe it is by calling it a “comfortable randomness” that you couldn’t get anywhere else. If Price wasn’t checking up on you, it was most likely Gaz filling in that spot for you, acting as your mentor at times.

Second to Soap, you joke around with Gaz the most.

Gaz is the only one who isn’t the butt of the British jokes you and Soap tell — sometimes being referred to as “The Good Brit.”

John “Soap” Mactavish┆︎It was like friendship at first sight. As soon as you saw him, you got an immediate feeling that Soap was someone you could trust and rely on. He was super friendly to you during your first few weeks, which made it easier for you to talk to him. If talking to Gaz is considered “comfortable randomness,” then talking to Soap is “chaotic randomness.” You never know what to expect whenever paired with Soap, but 9 times out of 10, you were sure to be in for a ride. He’s always down for whatever crazy idea you throw out there, and you’ve accidentally made him an Ice Spice fan — so there’s that. Throughout the Task Force, the two of you are known as the troublesome duo, which gives our dear Captain the biggest headache…

Soap affectionately calls you lass :)

You always like to tell Soap that you love his accent and the times in which he slips into Gaelic, not only because you find it so funny when he’s mad, but you get annoyed whenever Ghost tells him to speak English.

The two of you keep embarrassing photos of one another that always make you guys laugh without fail.

A/N: Heyoo! Did you all enjoy the story? I just have a bunch of cute little dynamics with the tf141 boys and [Y/n] :DD and this is one of them! Please show this post some love by liking and reblogging and commenting — anything really! Thank you so much for reading, byeeeeeee ✌️🫶🏾

[littleladymab]

What is HOWL? 👀

This one also goes out to @strangeharpy who asked

For the WIP title game, I am curious about HOWL!

So HOWL is a sci-fi project in which I take a cast of characters I made up with no plot and then smush it together with my "space lesbeans" project that had a decent plot but not fully fleshed out cast.

It's also what I'm doing with Kerri as a fully separated from FTL character LOL so when I was writing notes for the gorls, I had to make sure I didn't make it too similar to what I plan on doing for HOWL.

HOWL, largely, is inspired by the fact that there was something in SW that was cool and creepy in concept and I thought it absolutely FAILED on the delivery. You got a cosmic horror beast of a creature that consumes the living force from people and turns them into husks and then DON'T make it scary? Fuck, what are you doing with your life?! Anyway I also like to call it "what if I made star wars gay and scary" project.

So anyway, I do have to better figure out how to merge the two projects together into one coherent project but there's going to be not!jedi and epic betrayal and political intrigue, and yeah some scary cosmic monsters that will eat the essence of you right out of your body.

Kerri (human what can do magic) hires Nelo (cyborg what stole someone's identity) to be a bodyguard and get her home, and somewhere along they way they run into Jack (human what can also do magic) and their crew (Casper, Yasmine, and Ursula, who are all different kinds of aliens) on their ship called HOWL. Jack has a REAL MESSY HISTORY with the antagonist (I've been calling him Daniel for Reasons(TM), and his co-conspirator Mateen), and you know, plot will ensue.

As a fun side note, on the pin board I made for HOWL I saved one (1) picture of Timothee Chalamet in error and my friend never let me live it down and now my WIP channel for this project in our group chat is also the "i'm going to wonkapost here, to torment you".

Here's a passage I had written from years ago, when they were separate projects and I was experimenting with Jack's voice!

"You weren't telling me the whole truth!" "What does it matter?" "It matters because if he asks you to leave with him again, you might say yes!" I open my mouth, but the denial doesn't come, and Casper growls as he draws away. "Were you in love with him?" Caspar asks, and the laugh that is startled out of me is raw and wild. "Jack! Were you?" "I don't know!" I repeat, as if saying it louder makes it any more true. Casper tosses his hands in the air, and there's a glitter of goldenrod petals in their wake. He's stressed, agitated, and it's my fault. "Bullshit you don't know." "I don't. I don't--" I scrub my hands over my face and try again. "Humans are… We are a tangled mess of emotions and feelings and thoughts. What one person thinks isn't the same meaning as what someone else thinks. Emotions and interpretations. It is so impossible to know what I felt with certainty. It was so long ago. I don't know. Maybe? Maybe I did. In my own way, maybe I did." "And now?" I think about it, try to understand how I felt when I saw him standing across the airlock from me. That smile of his that always meant trouble was just around the corner, but wouldn't it be something if we could stay one step ahead the whole time? "He tried to kill you," Casper says into the silence when I take too long to answer. "He almost did. It is a fucking miracle you lived." "I know." The vines twist and grow up his forearms and he doesn't even seem to notice. "And you would still go if he asks you to leave?" I don't answer, but he fills in the blank anyway.

[[Ask me about my WIPS!!]]

[laspocelliere]

Day Fourteen: Telling

“Rather telling, don’t you think?”

The nobleman’s voice wasn’t as quiet as he might have hoped, but Aymeric didn’t turn. Those assembled nearby would have the decency (he hoped) to keep to good manners, and therefore be forced to follow the Lord Commander’s example of not taking the bait.

Bait that it most certainly was.

Following church services, it was a well-established practice for the nobles of the Pillars to assemble on the steps outside, taking any shameless opportunity to rub shoulders with the highest members of the Holy See. The air was bright and bitter, forcing groups to huddle together against the chill; all the better to whisper secrets and gossip amongst one another, before retreating behind the high walls of their warm and carefully barricaded homes.

Aymeric stood with his back to the enormous cathedral doors, staring out towards the spires and staircases of Ishgard below. At his side, Lucia was ever-watchful, a friend and bodyguard both, prepared to run interference with any individual who thought to seek favour with the Lord Commander without a proper audience.

She could not, however, shut out the blatant speculations that those around them didn’t even have the propriety to whisper. 

“To bring the Warrior of Light into this melee is blatant favouritism,” the voices continued, and Aymeric was too used to wary eyes on his back at all times to notice. “Do you think he’s sweet on her?”

“Smitten for sure,” came another voice, only to be immediately cut off by another, scoffing woman.

“Witchcraft, more like it. Spellbound. Have you seen her? No one could take any infatuation with her seriously.”

“It’s probably political.” The man who spoke was well prepared for the cold, puffed up in padded velvets and heavy furs, his heavily dyed moustache elegantly curled in anticipation of being around all of Ishgard’s finest that morning. “The Lord Commander is many things to be sure, but I don’t think I would call him a fool. He’s using that girl just as easily as he commands any of our fine dragoons.”

At Aymeric’s side, Lucia made a quiet, questioning noise, but the Lord Commander shook his head minutely. These whispers were meant to be overheard, and were begging to be engaged with. They knew they could be heard, and wanted dearly for Aymeric to chime in, to cast his lot to confirm one rumour or another as true. 

He would give them nothing.

“I agree with Lord Hugh,” another portly voice said comfortably, puffing around his elegant (if well-used) pipe. “She may be a skilled warrior, but she’s just a girl, and a Duskwight girl at that. She’ll probably happily fall into any bed that will catch her, if she hasn’t done so with half the regiment already to get where she is now. Ser Aymeric is clever if he’s using that to his own advantage for Ishgard.”

“That girl? Please. Have you ever tried to speak to her? She’s frigid as a cold snap, and twice as hard to look at without your eyes watering. No military advantage is worth a night trying to pierce that ice.”

“Surely first you’d need to find a way to pry them apart, aye?”

Their laughter was well-worn and comfortable, high-bred men and women who were perfectly at ease with their own places in life, and the subjugation of everyone who fell below them on the social ladder. Their insults came as naturally to them as breathing, and it would never occur to a single one of them that they should mind their tongues when so close to the subject of their gossip.

Lucia made another quiet noise, but Aymeric was far too focused on calming the furious ringing in his ears.

“Well,” one of the women sighed, and Aymeric caught her doe-eyed, longing gaze in his direction, clearly having lost hope that he was going to be baited to engage in their speculations. “Whatever the case, hopefully the Lord Commander knows what he’s doing. That sort of favouritism won’t do well long-term, I fear.”

“Indeed.” There were several pairs of eyes on him now, and Aymeric felt his shoulders stiffen and straighten beneath their weight, an instinct drilled in him since childhood. He was untouchable, unbreakable. Their words were like rainfall on steel; loud and persistent, but otherwise harmless.

Think instead on the curve of her neck, the shine of sunlight in her hair. The phantom memory of comforting mists and mountains when he pressed his face into the curve of her shoulder. The way she moulded against his chest when he pulled her to him. The rare, bright smile that he’d only ever seen turned in his direction, and only ever alone; a precious secret that he would take to his grave.

These people and their rumours were nothing. 

She was everything.

The little knot of nobles moved away, whispering properly amongst themselves now, likely speculating exactly what it meant that the Lord Commander hadn’t quelled any of their wild rumours, nor attempted to set them straight. He didn’t turn as they left, and eventually, Lucia lost the wary, coiled stance that she’d worked herself up into over the course of the conversation. 

It was a long time before Aymeric exhaled properly, certain that he was still being watched. 

You need to be more careful. He chided himself silently, refusing to let his face give away a single one of his thoughts. While the rumours were altogether harmless, the last thing he needed was for someone to accidentally stumble on the truth and sell it for fact. He belonged to her just as thoroughly as she belonged to him, and it was such a carefully guarded secret that he barely let himself remember the truth of it in the fullness of daylight. For her safety, for his own, and for the good of Ishgard; no one could know the truth.

And today they had started to stumble a little too close.

You need to be more careful.

He repeated the mantra to himself as he headed down the stairs towards the Pillars. Even as the whispers continued. Even as he nodded politely to Lord Fortemps as he passed, as though he were any other nobleman.

Even as he planned to meet her in secret that night, danger or not.

[pagingharu]

Name: Cassiopeia (Cassie) Galanis

Birthday: March 1

Age: 26 years old

Height: 5'7''

MBTI: INTJ-A

Main Theme Song: Devil In Me by Halsey

Occupation: She was formerly part of the Special Operations Forces, until Jumin offered her a job. She now works for him in C&R International as a bodyguard.

Bio: Not much is known about her history with how it's kept confidential, even to Jumin. There are also speculations that the name she uses isn't her real name, though there is no way of proving it. Despite all that, Jumin trusts her and that she can look after V after assigning her as his personal bodyguard. While she and V kept things professional at first, the two eventually warmed up to each other and grew close.

Personality: rational, independent, prefers to take matters into her own hands, determined though it could border to being stubborn, faces challenges head on, curious, dismissive of emotions, can be seen cold at first

Relationships: (bear with me as i type a whole lotta things)

ALSO EVERYONE LIVES AU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

V - VIP and bodyguard dynamic (eventual lovers? whatever they have going, it confuses everyone)

V didn't want a bodyguard at first, and tried to make Jumin back down from his decision of assigning Cassie to him, but this all fell on deaf ears. This was immediately followed by V trying to make things hard for Cassie in an attempt to make her quit. Though this was proven hard to do so with him failing every time. He was too much of a kind gentleman to be a bother to someone.

Cassie was determined to stay by his side, and upon seeing this, V eventually gave up on his plan. Instead, he made her promise to him not to interfere with or stop his plans. In return, Cassie made him promise to her to never shut her out. Whatever it is that concerns him, she'll be there for him.

After everything that happened, Cassie continued her job as V's bodyguard even though there was no need for it anymore. Not that she'd admit it, but she grew to care for him and wanted to stay by his side. She didn't know it, but V felt the same way towards her. When he decided to go on a journey to heal himself, he asked if she'd come with him. She responded with a smile, saying where he goes, she'd follow.

MC2 (blonde hair) - friends

An introvert and extrovert friendship. While Cassie first found it awkward to be part of RFA where everything wasn't about work, MC2 didn't mind taking her under her wing. It was thanks to her that Cassie was able to open up to everyone else.

Both tend to push each other to go out of their comfort zones and try new things out, what more with MC2 falling in love with 707. Cassie would tease them and the love story unfolding between the two, but she would also be their biggest supporter.

Jumin - boss and employee dynamic

They first met during one of Cassie's missions under Special Operations Forces. She caught Jumin's interest that he personally reached out to her with an offer to work for him sometime later.

He sees her as one of the best thus assigned her to V. Cassie respects him, just as he with her, and both have an unspoken agreement to team up together. While her history is shrouded with mystery, this doesn't deter Jumin from relying on her to keep V safe.

Jaehee - coworkers dynamic

Despite being in the same company, they aren't close with how they keep things professional between. They were both strictly work, nothing else. It wasn't until Cassie joined the RFA group chat that the two started talking about other things besides work.

At some point, Cassie began lending her ear to Jaehee whenever she needed to rant about work or their boss, Jumin. This amuses Cassie the more Jaehee rants, seeing her in a new light.

707 - siblings dynamic

Even though they're opposites, both seem quite fond of their sudden friendship. 707 was the first to reach out, and from his teases and jokes, Cassie finds herself enjoying his company. Even going along with his antics from time to time with her deadpan humor.

The two make quite the unstoppable team when they first worked together. Cassie likes that he can keep up with her in terms of missions, and 707 seems more than glad to have company during those. She sees how in love he is for MC2, and nudges for him to make a move.

Zen - silver haired rivals

Both act as if there can only be one silver haired member of RFA, and this often leads to them bickering about trivial things. Cassie especially doesn't like the fact that Zen insults Jumin, and Zen can't understand why she's so loyal to the man.

Though they find a common ground in protecting the people they care for. There are times when Zen thinks Cassie's ways are a bit too extreme, but nonetheless they back each other up to keep everyone safe.

Yoosung - one sided admiration

Yoosung views Cassie as someone awesome, just like the protagonists in action movies. He's even sure she can do everything on her own, seeing her as a one man team. While she didn't know what to say to his admiration at first, she later on found it amusing.

Though he sometimes gets fooled by 707 and Cassie whenever he asks about their jobs and the likes; what they do in the shadows and all that. When Yoosung realizes he's been made fun of, he goes after the two to give them a piece of his mind.

Vanderwood - acquaintances

While they aren't close, they do keep a civil and professional dynamic. It often stems from their similarities when it comes to work and being loyal to their boss. Although teaming up alongside 707 changed a few things, and they were able to rely more on each other.

Saeran - former enemies

They hated each other at first with his affiliation to Mint Eye and her job to protect V. Both were even willing to hurt the other if it was called for. It wasn't until after everything was done that they reluctantly learned to be civil with each other, mostly for 707's sake.

Rika - former(?) enemies

Similar to Saeran, they both see each other as enemies. With Cassie protecting V, and V realizing his relationship with Rika was toxic, this led Rika to believe everything was Cassie's fault and tried to kill her. After everything was done, they barely interacted as Rika is sent away for treatment.

[calebelfour]

CHARACTER INFORMATION —

Faceclaim: Max Irons

Full name: Cale Balfour

DOB & age: May 1, 36

Zodiac sign: Taurus

Gender & pronouns: Male he/his

Occupation: Heir/ex-royal guard

Neighborhood: Beachwood

Length of residency: 3 years

3 positive traits: Loyal, patient, kind

3 negative traits: Jealous, materialistic, withdrawn

INTRODUCTION —

Trigger warnings: Cheating, car crash, spousal death, fetal death, terrorism, explosives, amputation.

Cale, born in Ipswich, lived his life believing that he had been destined to guard royalty for his life mission, he worked his way up until the point he was a bodyguard to royalty, always seen at event mingling amongst nobility. He didn’t understand why he was never quite as forced into guard work as the rest of the group but he didn’t overly question it, he chalked it up to himself putting in extra work. Always loyal to the family he served, he didn’t question it. Until one night, his father drunkenly told him a tale that broke the foundations that his loyalty stood on.

Cale had been the product of an affair between his mother and a member of the royal family, it was why he was never given as hard of work and why he was allowed to mingle among the guests. It wasn’t until he was sixteen that his biological father came forward and claimed him as his own. His life changed overnight, suddenly he was thrust into parties, the limelight, and he hated it. With whatever remaining dignity he had, he disappeared, he kept in contact but at eighteen he left the confines of his family home in search of his own place to find his foundation. It didn’t last long, his biological family came looking for him, and he had to face reality, he couldn’t just disappear.

He met Mila one night, while he was busily mingling at a party, Mila was different. Mila ran a flower shop and she had been asked to provide the flowers for the party. Cale and Mila spoke into the night, it was an instant connection, something that Cale didn’t think he could ever really find after his family betrayal. Cale didn’t want a big fuss, and much to the chagrin of his biological family he and Mila eloped, they still had a nicer ceremony, but they didn’t need it. Mila had their first baby a few months later, little Malachi was a wonderful little boy, everything they needed. A few years later they were expecting again. Things were a little more difficult with this pregnancy and she was back and forward to the hospital.

Cale had taken back his job as a royal guard, his unwavering loyalty to the family that betrayed him providing one of the only moments of stability he had known. Then the night came, the roads were slippery, Mila was on the way to the hospital while Cale was working, something felt wrong with their baby. Cale got a phone call to meet Mila at the hospital but both Mila and the baby didn’t make it there. Malachi was in the back, and he survived the crash, needing family more than ever. However Cale didn’t think he could be the father that Malachi needed and he didn’t want to give him anything less than a perfect life. Cale’s mother offered to look after Malachi while he took some time to clear his head, and with the promise of a better life for Malachi, Cale left for California.

This time he didn’t look back, he moved to America, landing in California. He buried himself in partying, letting himself fall into the hole, wanting to disappear from the world. For about a year he let his grief wash over him, almost hoping for the end to take him, but it never came. His best friend came to find him, Cale didn’t think he could go back, there was nothing left at home for him. Sobering up came quickly when his best friend told him he had met a girl, proposed to her, and he wanted Cale as the best man. For his best friend he could do anything, he followed him back to England, and for awhile he worked on his relationship with Malachi and his old friends. Sobering up was a journey but eventually he learned how to be mostly back to himself.

The wedding went off spectacularly, until the reception. Cale was in the wrong place at the wrong time, he ran into a group of men trying their best to ruin the show, it was about to be a terrorist attack. In order to save the lives he threw himself in the way of the bomb, he’d saved the family… But he’d lost the lower half of his leg. Recovering was a long and arduous journey but eventually, with the aid of a prosthetic leg he learned how to walk again. During his recovery he had his eye on a small town in America, somewhere that he could really settle down and find his figurative footing again. It might not have been a big town, but he wanted somewhere that he could really call home and fall in love with. It’s been three years now, and he still loves the small town life of Woodside while getting the time to fully recover from losing his leg. The money he has he’s used to buy a massive home and relax into the lifestyle while still holding some of his wild child ways to be materialistic with whatever money he gets given from his family, which as it turns out when you save royalty while also being adjacent, is a decent chunk.

[hiraethhq]

Welcome to HIRAETH, Nina, Henry, Wesley, & Kol! Make sure to follow the checklist and send the link to your blog to the main within 24 hours.

OOC INFO

NAME: CC

AGE: 33

PRONOUNS: she/her

TIMEZONE: CST

MUSE INFO

NAME: Nina Rivera

AGE: 30

GENDER & PRONOUNS: cisfemale, she/her

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: bisexual

STATUS: visitor

CLASS: Vice

HIERARCHY: Spades

ADDITIONAL:

OCCUPATION: Bouncer at the Alibi

HOUSING: Dante's descent

FACE CLAIM: Lindsey Morgan

GOOD: Honest, daring, realistic

BAD: blunt, stubborn, assertive

UGLY: [redacted]

BACKGROUND: 

Nina grew up in a chaotic home with a strict, controlling mother and a father who made it clear he had wanted sons. Her mother, with her military background, always needed to know where Nina was, while her father treated her more like a soldier than a daughter.

He never cared about her being fragile or needing affection. Instead, he taught her how to fight, defend herself, and never take crap from anyone. Makeup, crushes, and typical childhood fun weren’t part of her life.

She turned out a bit of a tomboy, and she was fine with that. She’s blunt, speaks her mind, and doesn’t care what others think. With her tough upbringing, a career in law enforcement seemed like the perfect fit—she thrived on adrenaline and chasing down danger.

The one good thing from Nina’s childhood was her best friend, Marlana. She would follow her anywhere and stand by her no matter what. So when Marlana planned a spring break trip for their friend group, Nina was all in. But what was supposed to be a fun night of partying quickly turned into a nightmare.

They unknowingly stumbled upon an organized crime scene, and before Nina could process it, she was watching Marlana clutch her injured brother in shock. That night changed everything. Suddenly, they were on the run, hunted by dangerous people, which eventually led them to Hiraeth.

Nina never felt strongly about Vice or Virtue, but she followed Marlana without question. Now, she’s taken on the role of a bodyguard, willing to do whatever it takes to protect the people she cares about.

OOC INFO

NAME: CC

AGE: 33

PRONOUNS: she/her

TIMEZONE: Cst

MUSE INFO

NAME: Henry Cartier

AGE: 36

GENDER & PRONOUNS: cismale, he/him

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: heterosexual

STATUS: visitor

CLASS: Tyro

HIERARCHY: n/a

ADDITIONAL:

OCCUPATION: n/a

HOUSING: carroll house

FACE CLAIM: Jonathan Bailey

GOOD: charming, loyal, adventurous

BAD: calculative, temperamental, stubborn

UGLY: [redacted]

BACKGROUND: 

Henry was the eldest of the Cartier family—by just two minutes. From a young age, his parents decided he would be their successor, a responsibility he never wanted. He spent his days buried in books, studying business and wealth, while his twin, Danny, was the carefree one, enjoying life in a way Henry never could.

Despite their parents’ expectations, Henry always put Danny first. Their bond was unbreakable. While Danny pursued architecture in London, Henry studied business, molding himself into the poised, calculating man his parents expected him to be. But that didn’t mean he didn’t care. He always checked in on his brother—until one day, Danny stopped answering.

The night Henry found him, the night he saved him, still haunts him. He nearly lost the one person who truly understood him, and the pain of it is something he can’t even talk about. So, he left everything behind to start fresh in Hiraeth alongside Danny.

The world of wealth and Vice may always call to him, but perhaps, for the first time, staying true to himself will lead him somewhere new. Maybe even to find his own virtue.

OOC INFO

NAME: CC

AGE: 33

PRONOUNS: she/her

TIMEZONE: cst

MUSE INFO

NAME: Wesley Reeves

AGE: 33

GENDER & PRONOUNS: cismale, he/him

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: Demisexual

STATUS: Resident

CLASS: Virtue

HIERARCHY: Pawn

ADDITIONAL:

OCCUPATION: Busser at Frenchie's (+ Volunteer Guide)

HOUSING: Joan of Arc's

FACE CLAIM: Dylan O Brien

GOOD: Intelligent, Empathetic, hardworking

BAD: Clumsy, naïve, insecure

UGLY: [redacted]

BACKGROUND: 

Ever since he was a kid, Wesley had always wanted to choose Virtue. It represented everything he had ever hoped for—a place where he could truly belong.

His mother was around only half the time. When she wasn’t home, she was lost in her own world, getting high on tonics and barely keeping things together. His father disappeared from his life after his 21st birthday. Wesley never knew why, but he never held it against him. He had grown up in hardship, practically raising himself, but through it all, he kept his heart.

To others, Wesley was like a ray of sunshine. He was the funny one, the class clown, always making people laugh. He was smart—some might even call him a nerd—but he hid his pain behind humor. He never wanted to be a burden to anyone, so he kept his struggles to himself.

He loved being around people, which landed him a job as a busser at Frenchie’s. Helping others made him happy, and that’s why he also became an Volunteer Guide—to guide others in choosing the right class. Outside of work, he found comfort in art, painting scenes of nature and Virtue to express his creative side.

A few years ago, he reconnected with his father and has been trying to build a relationship with him. It’s not easy since his father is part of Vice, but he doesn’t want to lose the only family he has left.

OOC INFO

NAME: CC

AGE: 33

PRONOUNS: she/her

TIMEZONE: CST

MUSE INFO

NAME: Kol Sinclair

AGE: 26

GENDER & PRONOUNS: cismale, He/him

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: Heterosexual

STATUS: Resident

CLASS: Vice

HIERARCHY: Jack

ADDITIONAL:

OCCUPATION: Owner of Cherry on Top

HOUSING: Beatrice's purgatory

FACE CLAIM: Felix Mallard

GOOD: attentive, adaptive, ambitious

BAD: Impulsive, reckless, blunt

UGLY: [redacted]

BACKGROUND: 

The Sinclair family was all about appearances—fancy parties, polite smiles, and a perfect image. But underneath, they were just strangers living under the same roof. Siblings, trapped in a world their parents created, each trying to find a way out.

Kol, the eldest, carried the most responsibility. He was supposed to be the perfect son—the leader, the example. He became a businessman, though he wasn’t sure if that was ever truly his choice. He was raised to be smart, to say the right things, to never step out of line. He protected his younger brother from the world, they were like thickest thieves. If Jaren was out on an adventure, Kol wasn't far behind.

As a kid, Kol had a rebellious streak. He didn’t want to follow rules just because someone told him to. But in his family, defiance wasn’t an option. His father was a powerful man, and Kol had to play the part of the perfect son, whether he liked it or not.

He had everything—money, status, success. People either admired him or wanted to challenge him. But deep down, Kol never felt like he truly fit in. Was Vice really where he belonged? Or was there something more?

He owns Cherry on Top, he enjoys entertainment and often indulges in the festivities. He takes his ownership seriously as he does in protecting his fellow vices.

Little does he know—he wasn’t meant to be a Sinclair. That at birth, he had been switched, meant to grow up in Virtue instead. sooner or later he will face a choice: hold on to the life he’s always known or search for the truth about where he really belongs.

[lonelyfanboy48]

Steven Universe Of The Creek Chapter 29 Blue And Pink Lockdown

Maya, like yesterday, went on her hike with the Champions of the creek. She and her group took a different route to explore different parts of the creek, some of which they'd been to weeks ago. The champions felt more free with the creek turning civilized, kids from the other side being more of a healthy state rather than vying for control. However the only thing they didn’t get, like Maya, was the news spreading around without the person who took part of it.

“Maya.” Keun Sup turned to her. “Did something happen when you took off on your own yesterday?”

“Yes, but you wouldn’t believe it.”

“What do you mean?”

“Did you meet Xavier?” Aggie wondered.

“Yes, but it wasn’t here. It was at his house. If I offered you all to come with me, you would be amazed.” Maya responded.

Jackie knew the kids in the creek during his hikes acted awkwardly. But he didn’t forget the boom he heard yesterday, especially the huge boom outside the creek two days ago. If he knew what everyone else was feeling, Maya would have a purpose if she actually cared enough.

“I would show it to you, but I don't think he’s here today.”

“Seems he left after visiting.” Keun Sup commented.

“You would be right, but when I met him…he made friends here.”

The Campions looked at each other, informing the person he’s making friends at the creek. But what they don’t understand is what Maya experienced that caused her to be amazed. Soon, they went down the trail but little did they know, it was leading to the cave where they’ve noticed a few times, but never bothered. They stood in place, witnessing the cave and the darkness inside.

“Do you think we should check out this cave?” Aggie pointed. “It could lead to another cave where we could come out.”

“You may be right.” Maya smiled. “I’ll check it out in case it’s safe inside.”

“You shouldn’t do this alone, we’re not afraid of the dark.”

“There’s no one inside, if there were, the creek would’ve banned all of us.”

The Champions of the creek took Maya’s word as she made her way inside the cave. She took out her phone to turn on her flashlight feature but the moment the flash glowed to the bottom of the cave, Bluebird reacted in an instant.

“Intruders!” She reacted as Craig took notice, still sitting in the center.

“Please don’t be my friend! Please don’t be my friends!” He reacted.

Bluebird launched up from the ground, grabbing Maya’s attention the moment she saw what’s coming. She ran out of the cave, catching the attention from the Champions. When Bluebird revealed herself out in the open, Maya turned around to witness the gem for the first time. However she picked up the pieces when she saw the two gems on Bluebird.

“It’s them!” She replied.

“What do you mean? She’s one person.” Keun Sup pointed.

When Bluebird noticed Maya yesterday, she grinned just when she’s about to attack but decided to hold back. “Did anyone tell you about me?” She taunted. “Because I could do the honors of that.”

“No, they don’t.” Maya defended her friends. “What are you doing in there, Aquamarine and Ruby?”

“It’s Bluebird in fusion, for your information.” She flew in front of her, taking her by notice. “To cut things short, you and your friends need to turn around and walk away.”

“Why? Are you hiding something in there?”

“You really want to do it the hard way?”

“If I had my bat, probably.”

Bluebird then turned her attention to Aggie with her huge size. “Is this like your bodyguard so you wouldn’t need your bat?”

“I’m not her bodyguard.” Aggie making a stand. “We’re just hiking in the creek.”

“And we just came across this cave, we didn’t know you were in there.” Keun Sup chimed in. “You would’ve done the same thing if you were hiking.”

“That is.” Bluebird flew towards him. “If I didn’t have wings.” Jackie couldn’t keep his eyes off of Bluebird and her flying around. Then Bluebird turned her attention to him, focusing on her plan to prevent anyone rescuing Craig. “What’s the matter, did I steal your voice so you couldn’t speak up against me?”

“Jackie’s deaf.” Maya replied. “He can only speak through sign language, but I’m sure you're too tone deaf to understand.”

Bluebird turned back to Maya after hearing her. “I’ve never met another gem or human that was deaf. Never on us.”

“I wasn’t expecting you to ever meet another person who’s deaf.”

Back inside the cave, Craig heard talking from above, but he’s aware Bluebird will catch him if he tries to escape. He’s hoping it wasn’t his friends rescuing him, otherwise they would join him being trapped in a cave. He doesn’t know what his sister is doing after getting separated but if she’s still getting help, there is nothing he could do to prevent it.

“Bluebird.” Maya said. “Whatever you're doing in that cave, you know who I’m thinking about who’s behind it.”

“Is Xavier behind this?” Aggie catching on.

“Yes, who else do you think it would be?” Bluebird rolled her eyes. “But for a heads up, in case the deaf people don’t follow.” She taunted Jackie who crossed his arms. “He’s not taking over the creek, he just wants vengeance on one kid.”

The Champions remembered how the aftermath of Capture the Flag changed their lives in the creek without the ruler getting in their way. But with him back, only taking it out on the person responsible for his downfall could lead to disaster, but only on his enemy.

“Is Craig in there?” Maya placed her hand on her face.

“Why don’t I show you?” Bluebird flew back inside the cave while taking Craig with his shirt. Upon heading back out into the open, Craig witnessed Maya and the Champions of the creek in front of him. As much as he’s relieved it wasn’t his friends, he’s still worried they could get harmed from Bluebird.

“Craig?” Keun Sup spoked.

“Hey Champions from the other side of the creek.” Craig responded. “And Maya.”

“To give you the short version of the story, he interfered with what he should’ve stayed out of. Xavier ordered me to keep him inside the cave.” Bluebird smirked.

“For what, torturing him?” Maya guessed.

“He’s afraid, but unharmed. We’re doing it the easy way if he keeps it that way.”

Craig wished he had more to say, but with the predicament he’s in, he couldn’t move even when he’s not paralyzed. Something bad could happen at any moment against him just like Steven went through during the fight.

“Craig.” Aggie said, getting Craig’s attention. “You're just gonna stay in a cave not doing anything to save yourself?”

“You didn’t see what I saw. She’s dangerous.”

“Xavier must be losing it at home.” Keun Sup commented.

“He wasn’t when I saw him yesterday.” Maya replied. “But Craig, are you waiting for Steven to rescue you?”

“It’s the only option I have.” Craig answered.

“If he can get here, when he finds out.” Bluebird wrapped her arm around Craig. “But he’s busy making friends close to his age rather than a kid like him.”

“Was he the person you were referring to?” Keun Sup wondered.

“Yes.” Maya responded.

“Is he like them with those things?” Aggie pointed at Bluebird’s gems.

“Yes, but he’s part human.” Craig answered. “I wish I could show you if he was with me while I’m not…in jail…kind of.”

“Better than up in the cell from Homeworld.” Bluebird replied.

“Homeworld?” Maya catching on. “Is that like a city far away?”

Bluebird knew she would say that but it only gave her more amusement. “No, It’s a planet in another galaxy.”

“...You mean??” Aggie pointed at the sky.

“Yes.”

The Champions stand back away from Bluebird, learning that she’s not human like them. But Maya’s the only person who stood still, not standing back. “I don’t care if you're a gem or alien from a planet called Homeworld. You think that intimidates me?”

“You ran away from me, how does that not intimidate you.”

“I wasn’t ready, nor aware of you being in this cave in the first place. And I wasn’t planning on rescuing Craig.”

“Why? Because you would end up the same way as him? Trapped in this cave?”

Maya closed her eyes while trying to control her anger, but she would get in Bluebird’s way just like Craig did. “What could be worse than that?”

Bluebird then leaned close to Maya. “I would force you to be Xavier’s friend without any remorse.”

“Oh no…” Craig replied. “Don’t you think it’ll blow you and his cover?”

“Does he really want you to answer that Craig?” Maya signed. “You don’t know Xavier as much as I do.”

Craig knew Maya is right, knowing he never experienced what she went through, even if it’s for the best for himself. “You don’t even know what I’ve been through when Steven came. You may get along with him when you get the chance but he’s also trying to stay here to fix me.”

“Fix you? What do you mean?”

Then Craig’s eyes turned pink, taking Maya and the Champions by surprise. “What the heck!?” Maya clinched her teeth, disturbed.

“That can’t be healthy.” Aggie added.

“Or normal.” Keun Sup added.

“Trust me, if Steven saves me, we’re working on it.” Craig said.

“Don’t even get your hopes up Craig.” Bluebird turned to him. “Be thankful these aren’t your friends because I would’ve kept them on lockdown just like you. And you know you can’t stop them.”

Craig lowered his head as all he could do was turn around, as Bluebird catched on. “Just put me back in lockdown.”

“Good choice.”

“Craig!” Aggie called.

“Come on!” Keun Sup added.

“Guys, you all better off leaving me alone. The whole creek won’t defeat Bluebird. I know that from experience.” Craig didn’t look back, even if he wanted to, he now knows they don’t like his pink eyes. All he did was re-enter the cave and so did Bluebird, getting back to his spot with Bluebird back to blocking his way out.

Maya felt bad for Craig and she wished she could get Steven to save him but she doesn’t know where he is. “Maya.” Aggie called. “Do you want to go back to hiking?”

“Yes but…would you believe anything I say about my time with Steven yesterday?” Maya turned to the Champions. “It’s hard to believe it but…it did happen.”

“If it’s anything but Bluebird, sure.” Keun Sup smiled.

“Trust me, it’s anything but depression, it’s actually amazing in an awesome way.” Maya and the Champions of the creek left the cave as she told them everything about her meeting Steven and when she rode Lion yesterday, if they can believe her that is.

Back inside the cave, Craig laid on the ground with Bluebird looking away from him. His heart wasn't pounding to cause the glow from before, but without anything to keep him occupied, he closed his eyes, slowly drifting into slumber. He yawned a little, trying to find his happy place despite the circumstances. But with his pink eyes still going, glowing wouldn’t be the only thing he’s received from Steven’s powers.

[spyridonya]

Name: Eidon Muller Gender: Cis-Male Race: Tiefling (Demon-spawn) Class: Slayer/Wizard/Eldritch Knight Height/Weight: 5'6, 160lbs Sexuality: Bisexual & Ambiamorous; leans slightly heavier to men if only because of pragmatic reasons.

Personality: A sullen young man, and often quiet, Eidon's childhood was never stable due to his parent's self-determination at the cost of granting a stable life to their children. Intelligent but ill educated, Eidon attached to his sister both as a way to have a purpose in a tumultuous childhood and to give Emmaleigh the stability she needed. Unaware of the biological differences between him and his sister, Eidon felt strange and eventually guilty that he grew up stronger and taller than his sister and was able to survive while she was not. His parents never blamed him for her death, but the eternal question of ‘why Eidon?’ was on their minds, failing to realize that the simple difference was nutrition.

When his parents offered him a chance to train with a Slayer, Eidon didn't so much take it because he enjoyed killing, but he wanted to escape from home. He was talented and observant, with his mentor teaching him how to read. Disliking being used by mercenary groups to harm others when he got older, Eidon attempted a more luxurious job, finding himself bored and having the guilt still gnaw at him.

Fighting the Staglord and eventually the Trolls was almost automatic for him, and it gave him a way to deal with violence while keeping his kingdom at arm's length, half expecting Jamandi or Varn to take his barony from him. It was during the Bloom that made Eidon realize his role and his position as Baron, and that after a lifetime of guilt and inability to correct mistakes, he could either allow it to happen again, or finally be able to do something about it. He slowly began to become a better person, a better friend, and a better lover, eventually worthy enough of becoming King of the Stolen Lands.

Biography: Eidon Muller was born in the River Kingdoms to two tieflings who left Mendev in hopes of a better life. They distrusted authority and found the River Freedoms far more to their liking, becoming hunters and subsistence farmers, leaning heavier on hunting to always be on the move should local bandits or towns began to squabble. Eidon was the eldest of two twins by five minutes and both he and his younger sister Emmleigh were tieflings. Emmaleigh, unlike her parents and brother, was born as an obligate carnivore. As the two grew, it was painfully obvious that Emma wasn't getting the nutrition that she needed, and Eidon was shooting up like a tree. As such, Eidon became his little sister's protector and when the rare guest came over, many assumed a one or even two year difference between the two. Between the constant moving, the lack of proper nutrition, Emmaleigh wasn't able to fight back a terrible fever and died at the age of eight.

Eidon managed to survive and felt terrible guilt, throwing himself into his parents' trade, and withdrawing socially. A charmless, intense boy, his skill with his blade and bow was noticed when he was 11 by one of his parent's former mercenary friends, a skilled Slayer. Deciding that living at home would be detrimental, Eidon went with his family's friend and became his apprentice. For ten years, Eidon would train and travel through the River Kingdoms doing mercenary work, before heading to Brevory to strike out on his own at the age of 21. For two years he worked as a bodyguard for a minor noble, having a brief affair with his son that was discovered. Being free from obligations, Eidon was able to partake in Jamandi Aldori summons for adventurers, not realizing he was about to stumble onto a path that would make him face his ghosts and question his values.

[wildfirevivifics]

Simple shining

Summary: Max enjoyed the simple life now, he'd given up the hero business and was now a simple farmer but like most things this simple life would never last. Short one-shot. 

Disclaimer: No I don't own, but I would like Kane as my bodyguard

Dirt flew as Max plunged the pick axe into the ground, breaking the top layer of soil that had been covered with ice in the last winter. He silently thanked the lord for all the muscles that battling the forces of darkness had given him as they had proven invaluable over the last few years. The top layer came away easily under Max's skilful hits and revealed the dark fertile earth underneath. Setting aside the pick he picked up a fork and began to turn over the soil, getting ready for the spring planting.

He enjoyed his new life. Adam, although a robot, had earnt a place in the other farmers hearts and no questions were asked about their past as long as they worked hard and didn't cause any trouble. He was a hard worker and the other farmers thought of Adam as a gift from the gods as he didn't need to take breaks and could work 20 hours straight before needing to be recharged. All in all, they enjoyed their new lives and Max could almost forget the horrific events of his life before.

"MAX HOWS IT LOOKING?"

Max twisted his head around and saw the head farmer walking towards him, Bob Maxell, an honest hard-working man like everyone in the village; Max smiled and hefted his fork over his shoulder.

"Looks like everything's going to go smoothly Bob, get your men out here and we can have this field done in no time."

Bob nodded and whistled, in no time at all Max was surrounded by twenty men all hitting the ground with their picks, he lifted his arm up just in time to avoid being smacked in the eye by a giant wad of dirt. The farmer next to him smiled apologetically and put less force into his swings until Max had moved out of the way. He stood by Bob and smiled as he watched the preparations for the planting. Adam was out in the back making more progress in five minutes than most of these men would do in an hour; Max barely suppressed a chuckle as he saw the robot was wearing a straw hat to avoid any rain damage to his wiring.

"You two, you're a God send."

Max smiled up at Bob and answered in a quiet voice.

"This place is a God send."

Max thought back to Guardiana, to Princess Anri, Luke, Zylo, Mae and Lowe. He felt a frown form on his face at the thought of his oldest friend. What had happened to him? He still owed him so much, the boy who had found him washed up on a beach with amnesia, who became his friend and fought by his side despite his timid nature. Bob looked at him with piercing eyes that seemed to stare right into his soul.

"You're thinking about your past, aren't you?"

Max nodded silently, watching his fellow farmers work. He could never repay those debts; he most likely would never see his old friends again until the afterlife, if there was such a thing.

"Why don't you go visit? I don't know where you're from but if you're missing your friends that much why don't you just go see them."

Max's eyes widened and he shook his head violently. He was miles away from Rune, in fact he didn't even know where Rune was in relation to his new home.  It would be near impossible to get back for a “quick visit”

"No, they'd make me stay, I have a life here. They are better off without me."

Bob was about to press the matter when screaming echoed up the path from the village. One of the women ran straight to Bob and collapsed in his arms. Max recognized her as his wife, Natasha.

"Natasha what is it?"

"MONSTERS THEY ARE ATTACKING THE VILLAGE!"

Max exchanged a glance with Adam who quickly dropped his tools, they both started out into a quick run, heading directly for the source of the screaming. He skidded to a stop and watched as a group of six goblins attacked the houses and the people, who ran screaming at the sight of these unknown creatures. Max looked around and saw a scythe leaning against the door, he again thanked God that he lived in a village of farmers and picked it up. He twirled it around in his hands. It wasn't a Sword but it would have to do. He looked up and charged at the approaching goblins with a war cry.

The fight was quick, fierce and incredibly one-sided, the goblins were completely overwhelmed by the two experienced adventurers.  It had been years since Max had been in a fight but any fears that he may be rusty were quickly washed away as he cut down two of the goblins in quick succession.  Glancing over he could see Maxs’ laser pierce through the chest of another.  The three remaining goblins looked between each other and span around, running towards the outskirts of the village.

Max watched satisfied as the monsters ran screaming from the village. He allowed the scythe to fall listlessly from his hands before turning back to the stunned villagers. He felt his heart drop as he came to the conclusion that they would make him leave town, an apology was already half way out before the cheering started. Bob came up to him and clapped him on the shoulder, sending him tumbling forward.

"Sorry bout that but good on ya Max, you showed those monsters who was boss."

Max smiled sheepishly and rubbed the back of his head, delighted to see that Adam was getting the same treatment of hugs and smacks on the back that he was doing, well less of the later as people didn't want to break their hands on his unbreakable steel.

"It was nothing, I've faced worse."

Bob gaped and stuttered.

"W-what could be worse that those things?"

"A lot, you should have seen what I had to face..."

He trailed off and waved his hand dismissively.

"Well that's in the past, so I guess this means I can stay."

Bob smiled brightly.

"We'd be honoured if you did."

Max grinned and walked back to the fields with his still cheering entourage, happy in the knowledge that he had secure himself a home for life.

A/N First Shining force fic