#cannonball sports

[fourteenfifteen]

WINDOWS

T // 2.2k // blaseball - core mechanics

Even with her eyes closed Cannonball is aware of the light and birdsong streaming in the window. This, really, should be the first indication that something is wrong.

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[sheerfreesia007]

Pool Games

Pairing: Changbin x Reader

Word count: 2,096

Content warnings: Fluff

Summary: It’s all fun and games at the pool with the boys and you but when there’s betting involved Changbin is such a sucker for you. What happens when you come to collect your reward?

The sun is streaming down from the bright clear sky heating the tiled pool deck as Changbin and the rest of the guys all gather around the lounge chairs while talking animatedly and excitedly. Chan had organized a pool day for the group of them to try and cool down in this sweltering heat that they were dealing with. Changbin grinned as he watched Hyunjin ruffle Jeongin’s hair harshly as the younger boy cried out exasperatedly before shoving Hyunjin away from him. Growing impatient with the boys not getting in the pool, Changbin leans down and grabs the football from the large tote bag that Chan had packed for all of them. He stands up straight and looks over at Seungmin who eagerly watches him waiting for him to throw the ball, Changbin nods his head towards the pool and Seungmin takes off doing a cannonball into the pool with Jeongin and Felix following him quickly as they cheer loudly. Just as Changbin was winding back his arm to throw the football to the waiting boys he heard the locker room door open and he frowned softly as his head turned to Chan with slight irritation coursing through him.

“Yah! I thought you said it was a closed pool?” Changbin asked Chan with an annoyed frown on his face. Chan grinned as he looked over to the locker rooms and nodded his head at Changbin.

“It is but I invited someone to join us.” Chan explained and Changbin frowned some more before whipping his head to the person who had entered the pool deck. He watched as you walked out along the tiles while excitedly shedding your extra large baggy t-shirt that looked like one of his old ones that he had been missing for a few months now, when his eyes darted down to your bright neon pink bikini he instantly felt light headed and as if he couldn’t catch his breath.

Your body was beautiful to him as he slowly grazed his eyes up and down it as he watched you move quickly towards them all. Your face was lit up with happiness and excitement to see them all as your shoulders and upper chest were bare to them as your pretty bikini had straps criss crossing across your skin. The top looked almost like one of those sports bras he had seen you wear at the gym when you would join him and it fit your sporty style easily which made him grin. But the bikini bottoms are what caught and held his attention, they molded to your body like a second skin and while they covered everything from his wandering eyes but they made your ass look perkier than your workout pants he’s seen you in. That fact alone made his breath stutter out of his chest in pants as you moved closer to them.

“Changbin Hyung! Ball!” shouted Seungmin momentarily distracting him as he launched the ball into the water without looking at him.

“C’mon Seungminnie, you know you can’t overwhelm Changbin Hyung when he’s focused on something. He malfunctions when he’s given too many things to focus on.” Han teased loudly, causing the boys to laugh.

“More like focused on someone.” Chan agreed with Han and Changbin snapped his eyes to his Hyung who smirked at him before nodding his head at you. Changbin knew that the boys all knew about his crush on you and would often tease him about it but you were always so clueless thankfully and he’d managed to keep his crush under wraps from you. But now with you joining them for their pool day he had a feeling that he’d be fielding more teasing remarks from the guys, he’d be fighting for his life.

“Binnie!” you called out in your sweet happy voice effectively dragging Changbin’s sole focus to you as you waved at him. Growing nervous and desperate to keep you away from the boys, Changbin moved without thought as he watched you drop your t-shirt or rather his stolen shirt onto the closest lounge chair. He dropped his shoulder and effortlessly wrapped his arms around your torso as he tackled you into the open pool as you squealed and cried out in surprise at his move.

Changbin kept his arms around you and your body close to his as you both fell into the water with a large splash. You break through the surface a few moments before Changbin does and you’re waiting for him when he finally does as you splash him aggressively and he laughs loudly at your attempts before he wraps his arms around from behind and pins your arms to your sides.

“Give up Yeobo, I’m too strong for you to fight me.” he teases you as you struggle in his arms.

“What gives Changbin?” you cry out exasperatedly as you turn to look at him over your shoulder. He grins widely at you before the football flies through the air and lands in the water splashing the both of you with water.

“Noona! Be on our team!” calls Han as he, Chan, Hyunjin and Lee Know get into the pool while the younger guys are all swimming quickly over to you and Changbin.

“No way, she’s on my team.” Changbin calls out before slowly releasing his hold on you. You move away from him and Seungmin quickly grabs your hand and drags you over to his side as Han and Chan easily crowded you with smirks on their faces as they stared at Changbin.

“She’s on our team. She’s our only defense against you.” Chan says proudly and you chuckle at his words before giving Seungmin a high five as he laughs at Changbin’s disgruntled look.

“Fine, fine. But I’m coming straight for her.” Changbin says menacingly as he points at you. You grin at him before widening your eyes and raising your hand to your mouth in mock horror while Chan laughs and Changbin rolls his eyes at you.

The game is quickly underway after that and soon Changbin is focusing all of his attention on you as you move through the water to get into a good spot to catch the football from Han. Changbin moves effortlessly through the water while you struggle slightly from being shorter in height, when Han throws the football Changbin easily swats it out of the air away from you causing you to splash him water as you pout at him. His answering smirk earns him another splash making him laugh at your antics.

The next game you’re able to get past Changbin and manage to catch the football from Chan but Changbin grabs you around your middle when you move to swim into his team’s endzone. He lifts you high above his head as you squeal loudly while still holding onto the football. Changbin then begins to lower your body back down into the water but you’re flush against him and as he feels your body slide down his own he can feel his face beginning to heat with desire and embarrassment of having you so close to him. You smirk up at him seeing how flustered he’s become before you toss the football to Han who scores a point for your team. YOur happy cheer at your team’s victory pulls Changbin from his dazed headspace and he smiles softly as he watches you and Han do a wild victory dance.

Another round comes up and Changbin figures out too late in the game that you’re the one designated to score this time as Chan and Han block him from getting to you as you dodge and weave around a confused Hyunjin and an unenthused Lee Know to score a point. You whooped loudly with pride as you jumped in place while Seungmin wrapped his arms around your shoulders in a hug at your score. Changbin frowned as he watched Seungmin hug you tightly before he heard Chan chuckle softly.

“Yah! You wouldn’t have scored that point if Chan and Han hadn’t stopped me from tackling you!” he shouted at you and you grinned at him wickedly as your eyes still sparkled with your win. Changbin feels a prickling in the back of his head at your knowing look as you make your way over to him, Chan and Han, he feels as if he’s suddenly prey to your predatory look and he can’t help but internally shrink away from you.

“Alright Binnie, let’s make a bet.” you challenge him and he scoffs at your bravado. “If I can score another point then you owe a reward.”

“You’ll never score another point on me Yeobo.” he taunts you and you smirk wickedly at him before holding your hand out to him.

“Any reward that I want if I score another point on you.” you challenge and Changbin feels as if he’ll be making a deal with the devil if he shakes your hand but he does so anyway. Your answering grin is blinding to him as you look up at him with eager excited eyes. You then gather your team over to you and begin talking strategy with them and Changbin quickly turns to his team who all stare at him with varying degrees of enthusiasm causing him to sigh softly.

As the last game starts Changbin is slightly nervous, your whole team has looks of determination written across their faces and he knows he’s only half a shot of winning this game since half of his team are interested in playing. He holds himself back and watches as Chan keeps the ball as you, Seungmin and Han all rush Changbin’s team. Jeongin matches up with Seungmin trying to keep him back but Seungmin manages to push Jeongin back just barely while Han faces off with Felix who tries to grab onto Han like a clingy koala to keep him tied up which causes Han to begin laughing manically at Felix’s attempt. And then that leaves you who tries rushing through the water on your legs but when Changbin smirks and tries to grab onto you you dodge him and dip under the water to begin swimming away from him towards the end zone.

When you come up for air he’s waiting for you but you manage to be just a few feet ahead of him and Chan launches the ball into the air. Changbin lunges for you but you’re already jumping into the air catching the ball squarely in your arms before cradling the ball to your chest with a loud war cry that makes Chan, Seungmin and Han all cry out loudly. Changbin grumbles as he watches you do another victory dance but then begins laughing as you horribly try to mimic their dance choreography for Thunderous before you spike the ball into the water and throw your hands up.

You suddenly whirl in your spot and Changbin feels the air in his lungs punch out at the wild happy look in your eyes when you spot him. Swimming up to him you slowly stand to your full height and slide your arms up and around his neck causing him to wrap his hands around your waist to hold you up.

”So you owe me a reward.” You say softly to him and he watches as your eyes crinkle slightly at the edges with delight.

”What reward do you want Yeobo?” He asks just as softly. His mouth drops open in shock as you pucker your lips and point to them, he can feel his whole face flush with desire before he begins to giggle loudly at your action. Leaning forward he moves to peck a quick kiss to your lips but when he goes to pull back your hands are threaded through his hair and hold the sides of his head to keep him still as you tilt your head and deepen the kiss. He grunts surprised but eagerly kisses you back while sliding his arms tightly around your back and holding you close to him. When he feels your legs wrap around his hips he feels as if he’s ten feet tall and as if he could lift a bus right now. You pull away slightly and smile dreamily at him when his mouth moves to chase yours before he speaks up. “That’s a good reward. I think you deserve more of those.” 

Suddenly there’s loud cheers and cooing heard all around you as Seungmin gags loudly causing you to laugh at all of their reactions before Changbin moves in for another long deep kiss.

[f14fun]

lay all your love on me - op81 (C3)

synopsis: in which oscar piastri and a university student begging for her euro summer vacation collide in a steamy, abba-inspired romance

prose (5.9K words) ✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩ profile | masterlist | series index ⋆.˚✮🎧✮˚.⋆

─────────────────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────────────────── 03: Making a Splash in the Pool of Love…Yikes

There were two types of people at the pool: those who gracefully slipped into the water like elegant swans, and those who cannonballed in with all the subtlety of a collapsing deck chair. I, unfortunately, was in a third category entirely—one reserved for the terminally awkward, perpetually flustered, and inexplicably magnetized to the deep end of mortification.

Oscar’s sisters were already in the water, splashing each other like some synchronized squad of professional pool gremlins. Mae was attempting what looked like a half-hearted handstand, her legs wobbling in the air before she toppled over, sending a spray of water in every direction. Edie was lounging on a float, sunglasses perched on her nose, lazily steering herself with one foot as if she were on a private yacht instead of a neon pink flamingo. Hattie, meanwhile, was narrating the entire scene like a sports commentator, complete with dramatic sound effects and questionable Australian accents.

And then there was Oscar, sitting poolside with all the ease of someone who belonged there, flashing that same infuriatingly smug grin every time he caught my eye. He looked like he’d just stepped out of a surf magazine—lean muscles, tousled hair, and the kind of relaxed confidence that made you both admire and want to dunk him underwater simultaneously.

Simply put, that sight, holy hell; absolutely delectable.

I was perched on the edge, feet dangling in the cool water, trying to summon the courage to just jump in and get it over with. But of course, that was when Oscar decided it was the perfect time to make things ten times worse.

“C’mon, what are you waiting for?” he called, tipping his sunglasses down just enough to look at me over the rim. “Don’t tell me you’re scared of a little water.”

I shot him a glare, but my attempt at intimidation was ruined by the fact that I was gripping the edge of the pool like it was my only lifeline. “I’m not scared,” I retorted, though my voice wavered. “I’m just… enjoying the view.” Which, unfortunately, sounded way more flirtatious than I intended.

Great. Just great.

Oscar’s grin widened, and he pushed himself up, sauntering over with a casualness that made my pulse race. “The view, huh? Glad I’m providing some entertainment,” he teased, crouching down beside me, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “But I’ve gotta say, you’re missing out. Water’s perfect.”

And before I could protest, he stood up, gave me a cheeky wink, and cannonballed into the pool, sending a wave of water crashing over my legs and half-soaking my cover-up. I let out a yelp, half in surprise and half in pure exasperation as Oscar surfaced, slicking his hair back and laughing like he’d just pulled off the prank of the century.

“Welcome to the splash zone!” Mae cheered, throwing up her arms in mock celebration as Oscar floated by, still grinning like he’d won some imaginary competition.

I wiped the water from my face, feeling my resolve finally crack. It was either jump in or spend the rest of the afternoon as Oscar’s personal splash target, and I was too stubborn to give him that satisfaction. With one last deep breath, I stood up, tossed my cover-up to the side, and took the plunge, diving in with more determination than grace.

As I broke the surface, sputtering but exhilarated, Oscar swam up beside me, his smile impossibly bright. “There you go,” he said, flicking water at me playfully. “Now you’re officially one of us.”

I rolled my eyes, trying to hide the smile tugging at my lips. “One of the loonies, you mean.”

He laughed, his eyes sparkling with something that looked a lot like admiration. “Exactly. Welcome to the club.”

Before I could catch my breath, Oscar splashed me again, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Alright, now that you’re here, we’re playing a game of chicken. Me and you against Edie and Hattie. They’ve been running their mouths all day about how they’re undefeated.”

I blinked, caught completely off-guard by the suggestion. “Wait, chicken? You mean the one where you sit on someone’s shoulders and try to knock the other team down?”

Oscar nodded, his grin wide and challenging. “That’s the one. And don’t worry, I’m a solid base. You just have to keep Edie and Hattie from cheating, which is honestly the real challenge.”

I hesitated, glancing over at Edie and Hattie, who were already gearing up and flexing like they were entering an Olympic event. Edie perched confidently on Hattie’s shoulders, waving like a gladiator preparing for battle. The thought of sitting on Oscar’s shoulders, with everyone watching—and worse, his hands around my legs—made me momentarily freeze. Not to mention, I wasn’t exactly in the mood to be manhandled by a guy I’d only known for three hours, no matter how distractingly good-looking he was.

“Nah, I think I’ll just watch,” I said, trying to sound casual, even though my heart was thumping at the mere idea of the closeness. “I’m not really… a chicken kind of girl.”

Oscar wasn’t having it. He swam closer, his expression teasing but with a hint of something else, a playful determination that made it clear he wasn’t going to let me off that easily. “C’mon, don’t be a chicken about playing chicken,” he coaxed, his tone dripping with challenge. “It’ll be fun. Plus, I promise I won’t drop you. I’ve got a good grip.”

I shot him a skeptical look, my cheeks heating up again. “And why exactly should I trust you?”

Oscar’s smirk widened as he shifted his stance, flexing his biceps with dramatic flair, his movements comically slow and deliberate. He struck a pose like a cheesy fitness model from a 90s infomercial, his muscles bulging as he exaggerated each flex with a ridiculous amount of confidence. The water glistened on his tanned skin, catching the sunlight in a way that would’ve been impressive if it wasn’t so over the top. He raised one arm and gave it a solid flex, his bicep swelling noticeably, and with a playful wink, he leaned in and kissed it like it was the crowning achievement of his life.

“Because these guns,” he declared, pausing to flex the other arm for good measure, “are the most reliable thing you’ll ever sit on.” He threw in a cocky wink that would’ve made any movie villain proud, followed by an exaggerated smooch to his own bicep that echoed like a cartoon sound effect.

Mae burst out laughing, nearly choking on her drink. “Oh my god, Oscar, you absolute dork. Stop embarrassing yourself!”

Edie rolled her eyes so hard I was worried they’d get stuck. “Seriously, bro, you’re one cheesy line away from handing out autographed photos.”

Oscar ignored them, continuing to pose as if he were standing in front of a crowd of adoring fans. He shifted his weight, flexing his triceps now, turning slightly to show off the muscles rippling along his back, all while maintaining that smirk that screamed, I know I look good, and I’m not sorry about it.

I couldn’t help but laugh, torn between genuine amusement and secondhand embarrassment. He was so shameless, so ridiculously over-the-top, that I almost didn’t notice the way his muscles moved with effortless strength beneath the surface. I tried to keep my expression neutral, but I could feel my cheeks heating up despite myself. The confidence, the sheer audacity of it all, was so uniquely Oscar, and I couldn’t deny the flutter of nerves—or something else—that danced in my stomach.

I snorted, half-laughing, half-cringing at his display. “Oh my god, that was the worst line I’ve ever heard. Are you serious?”

“Dead serious,” he said, his eyes twinkling. “And besides, you get to help me take those two down a notch. It’s a win-win.”

I looked at Edie and Hattie, who were already smirking at us from across the pool, and I felt a sudden surge of competitiveness rise up. Fine. If Oscar wanted a partner, I’d give him one—and maybe wipe that smug look off his sisters’ faces while I was at it.

“Alright, fine,” I relented, rolling my eyes but unable to suppress a grin. “But if you drop me, I’m holding it against you forever.”

Oscar’s smile was blinding. “Deal.” He turned around and crouched slightly, patting his broad shoulders. “Hop on. I’ll keep you steady.”

I climbed onto his back, trying not to think too hard about how solid he felt under my hands, or the way his muscles flexed as he gripped my legs to steady me. I could feel every inch of his strength, and it was both comforting and ridiculously distracting. The water sloshed around us as he rose, effortlessly lifting me onto his shoulders. My heart pounded, but I tried to focus on the game instead of the feel of his strong, tanned skin under my hands.

“Hold on tight,” Oscar said, his voice light but filled with excitement. “We’re going to take them down.”

As we squared off against Edie and Hattie, the pool’s surface rippled around us, creating a vibrant, sun-dappled stage for our impending battle. I could feel every subtle shift of Oscar’s body beneath me, his muscles tensing and flexing as he adjusted his stance, effortlessly finding the right balance to keep us steady. Each small movement sent little jolts of energy through me, and I couldn’t ignore the sheer strength radiating from him, his back firm and his shoulders broad under my grip. He gave his shoulders a little roll, almost like a warm-up, making sure I felt every deliberate flex, each slight adjustment meant to show off his easy power.

“Comfortable up there?” he asked, his voice laced with that familiar teasing edge. He tilted his head back just enough so I could see the playful spark in his eyes, his cheeky grin widening as he caught my expression. He looked absurdly pleased with himself, like this was all part of some grand performance and I was his main audience.

“Oh yeah, super comfy,” I replied, my voice dripping with sarcasm, but I couldn’t suppress the grin tugging at my lips. It was impossible not to smile; his energy was contagious, and the way he kept subtly flexing as if daring me to notice was half infuriating, half amusing. I squeezed my thighs around his neck for stability, feeling the corded strength in his shoulders respond instinctively. It was like being on top of a coiled spring—every movement precise, controlled, and brimming with unspoken confidence.

He chuckled, his laughter vibrating through me. “Good to hear. I’m not just holding you up—I’m making sure you’re getting the five-star experience.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t deny the exhilaration bubbling up inside me. Despite my initial reluctance, there was something undeniably thrilling about being perched on his shoulders, high above the water, surrounded by the sounds of splashing and laughter. The sun was warm on my skin, and the water glistened around us, catching the light in dazzling, ever-shifting patterns. And then there was Oscar’s energy—playful, supportive, and just cocky enough to make me want to win this silly game purely out of spite.

Oscar shifted beneath me, his muscles rippling as he adjusted to keep me perfectly balanced. His hands gripped my legs firmly, his touch sure and steady as if to remind me that, no matter how chaotic things got, he wasn’t letting me fall. I caught a quick glimpse of his grin, the way he was clearly enjoying every second of this, and it was impossible not to feel a rush of adrenaline mixed with something softer, something that made my heart beat just a little faster.

“Ready to take them down?” he asked, giving his shoulders another purposeful flex that sent a shiver through me, his playful arrogance on full display. “I’ve got the strength; you just bring the attitude.”

I tightened my grip, feeling a surge of competitive spirit rise within me. “Oh, I’ve got plenty of that,” I shot back, smirking down at him. “Just keep flexing, and we’ve got this in the bag.”

Oscar laughed, his eyes flicking up to meet mine with a look that was half challenge, half flirtation. “You got it. Hang tight, and let’s show these amateurs how it’s done.”

Edie shot us a look, her eyes narrowing playfully. “You’re going down!” she called out, already reaching forward with determination.

“We’ll see about that!” Oscar taunted back, adjusting his stance and giving his sisters a cocky nod. “Don’t worry, I’ve got the best rider in the game.”

The match was on, and I focused all my energy on staying balanced and pushing back against Edie’s determined attacks. Oscar’s hands gripped my legs tightly, holding me steady as we twisted and turned in the water. I could feel his muscles working beneath me, and every so often, he’d flex just a bit more than necessary, as if to remind me of the strength holding me up.

“You sure you don’t mind all this muscle under you?” Oscar teased, glancing up with a flirtatious smile. “I mean, I can tone it down if it’s too distracting.”

I laughed, half-exasperated, half-flustered by his shameless flirting. “Just focus on the game, muscle man.”

Oscar chuckled, giving me another little flex just for show. “Oh, I am. But if it helps, think of this as a free ride. Gym membership included.”

With one final push, I managed to shove Edie just enough to throw her off balance, sending her toppling back into the water with a dramatic splash. The victory was sweet, made even better by the stunned look on Hattie’s face as she struggled to keep her sister afloat. Edie resurfaced with a gasp, water streaming from her hair as she spluttered and shot me a half-impressed, half-annoyed glare.

“Ha!” I cheered, throwing my arms up in triumph, barely managing to keep my balance on Oscar’s shoulders. “We won!” My voice echoed with a mix of disbelief and exhilaration, and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of pride.

Oscar laughed, his joy bubbling up as he spun us around in a celebratory twirl, the water splashing up in playful waves around us. I squealed, clutching his head to keep steady, but the sound was full of delight rather than fear. It was impossible not to get caught up in the moment, the sudden thrill of winning, and the infectious energy of everyone’s laughter.

“Told you we’d win,” Oscar said, looking up at me with that signature grin—broad, boyish, and brimming with a proud satisfaction that was almost contagious. He squeezed my legs slightly, just enough to remind me of his grip, his strength, and the fact that he’d been holding me up the whole time. “I never lose when I’ve got the right partner.”

I blushed, feeling an unexpected warmth spread through me at his words. The compliment was wrapped in that same playful bravado, but there was something genuine beneath it that caught me off guard. I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks, and I tried to play it cool, though my grin was impossible to hide. “Well, I guess you’re lucky to have me, then,” I teased, flicking a bit of water down at him.

Oscar chuckled, adjusting his hold and giving his shoulders a little roll as if to flex just one last time. “Lucky doesn’t even cover it,” he quipped, his voice dipping into something almost sincere, and I found myself momentarily lost in the playful glint of his eyes.

Meanwhile, Hattie was already splashing water at Edie, who was still bobbing indignantly in the pool. “You got beat by a newbie!” Hattie crowed, laughing at her sister’s expense. “I thought you said you were unstoppable?”

Edie scowled but couldn’t suppress a grin, brushing her wet hair out of her face. “Alright, alright, you got us. But don’t get too cocky—we’ll be back for a rematch,” she said, pointing a challenging finger at me. “Next time, you’re going down.”

Mae paddled over, clapping her hands in mock applause. “That was epic! New girl just dethroned the queens of chicken. How does it feel to be pool royalty?”

I couldn’t stop laughing, the adrenaline still coursing through me as I basked in the impromptu victory. “Feels pretty damn good,” I said, shrugging nonchalantly even though I was still buzzing from the rush. “But I’ll let you guys keep your crowns. I’m more of a co-ruler kind of girl.”

Oscar tilted his head back, looking at me with a playful admiration that made my heart skip a beat. “See? She’s humble, too. The whole package,” he said, giving me a slight squeeze with his shoulders that made me tighten my grip reflexively.

“Okay, seriously, stop flirting,” Mae groaned, rolling her eyes dramatically as she splashed water at us. “It’s getting nauseating.”

Hattie laughed, shaking her head as she swam closer. “Yeah, tone it down, Romeo. No one wants to watch you make goo-goo eyes while you’re being a human ladder.”

Oscar just grinned, unbothered by their teasing, and looked up at me with an exaggerated wink. “Sorry, can’t help it. It’s not every day you get to team up with someone who makes winning look this good.”

I laughed, trying to ignore the way my cheeks flamed up at his unabashed flirtation. “You’re ridiculous,” I said, but my voice was light, and I couldn’t deny the flutter in my chest. For a moment, everything felt easy—like we were just two kids messing around, laughing, and letting the summer sun work its magic.

Mae, ever the bundle of energy, suddenly clapped her hands together, splashing water everywhere. “Alright, next game! We’re playing pool volleyball. Hattie, Edie, you’re with me. New girl and Romeo are on the other team,” she announced, pointing dramatically between us. “Time to see if you two are a one-hit wonder.”

Oscar’s eyes lit up at the challenge. “Oh, we’ll take you down,” he declared confidently, wading over to grab the neon volleyball bobbing nearby. “We’re basically undefeated at this point. Right, partner?”

“Undefeated for exactly one game,” I teased, but I couldn’t help feeling a competitive spark reignite. Mae quickly set up the makeshift “net,” which was really just a length of pool noodle stretched across the center of the pool, anchored down with pool chairs. It was half crooked, barely staying afloat, and not remotely official—but in that moment, it felt like the real deal.

Edie and Hattie took their places with Mae, who was already taunting us from across the water. “Ready to get wrecked? This is our turf, and we don’t go easy,” Mae called out, bouncing the ball a few times as if she were prepping for a major league serve.

Oscar leaned in close to me, his shoulder brushing mine under the water as he whispered, “They’re just sore losers. We’ve got this.”

The game kicked off with a wild serve from Mae that went soaring way over everyone’s heads and smacked into the side of the pool with a splash. “Nice aim,” I called, biting back a laugh.

“Shut up, it’s a warm-up!” Mae shot back, blushing as she retrieved the ball. She tried again, this time with a little more finesse, and the game was on.

Oscar and I found our rhythm surprisingly quickly, moving in sync as if we’d been playing together for ages. He’d bump the ball effortlessly, sending it just high enough for me to set it up perfectly, and I’d watch as he leapt out of the water with an exaggerated show of power, slamming it back over the noodle with a loud splash. Every point we scored, Oscar would raise his hand for a high-five, which quickly devolved into splashing water at each other playfully.

“Nice spike, partner!” I called, the thrill of teamwork coursing through me. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d had this much fun doing something so simple. There was no pressure, no awkwardness—just pure, unfiltered enjoyment.

“Same to you!” Oscar responded, winking at me as he adjusted his swim shorts, the action so casual yet somehow making my heart skip a beat. “You’re making this too easy.”

The banter kept flowing as we played, each side fiercely determined not to lose. At one point, Hattie attempted a dramatic dive to save the ball, splashing wildly and nearly taking Edie down with her. “Friendly fire!” Edie yelped, giggling as they both resurfaced, water streaming from their hair.

Mae, ever competitive, huffed and glared at her sisters. “C’mon, focus! They’re not even that good!”

Oscar chuckled, elbowing me gently, his voice dropping just enough to send a shiver down my spine. “Hear that? We’re ‘not even that good.’ Guess we’ll have to try harder.”

I blinked, caught completely off guard by the not-so-subtle innuendo laced in his words. The way he said it—low, playful, with just the slightest hint of mischief—made my face heat up instantly. I could feel the blush creeping up my neck and flooding my cheeks, and there was no hiding it. It was like my skin had betrayed me, broadcasting exactly how flustered I felt.

I tried to play it off, clearing my throat and splashing water at him as a distraction. “Y-Yeah, maybe you should work on that,” I shot back, aiming for a confident tone, but my voice wavered just enough to make Oscar’s grin widen. His eyes were locked on mine, sparkling with a knowing look that made my stomach flip.

“Is that a challenge?” he teased, his smirk growing as he leaned a little closer, clearly enjoying how flustered I’d become. “Because I’m always up for trying harder.”

I sputtered, feeling the heat intensify across my face. This wasn’t fair—he was effortlessly charming, and I was just trying not to combust on the spot. “I meant at volleyball, obviously,” I muttered, though my flustered state made the retort sound weak. “Don’t get any ideas.”

Oscar laughed, the sound rich and teasing as he splashed me back. “Relax, I’m just messing with you,” he said, but the playful glint in his eyes told me he was fully aware of how his words had landed. “But hey, if you’re blushing this much already, maybe we really should up our game.”

I could practically feel my cheeks burning, and I desperately tried to focus on anything other than the way his grin made my heart race. “You’re impossible,” I managed to say, but my tone lacked any real bite. It was hard to stay annoyed when he looked at me like that, with his eyes dancing between flirtation and genuine enjoyment.

Oscar just shrugged, still grinning as he pushed his wet hair back from his forehead. “Only when it’s this much fun,” he said, giving me one last playful wink before turning his attention back to the game.

With one final serve from Oscar, the ball sailed perfectly over the net, and Edie reached for it just a second too late, sending it skimming across the water and out of bounds. The game was ours, and we celebrated like we’d just won an Olympic gold.

“Victory!” Oscar shouted, throwing his hands up in triumph before pulling me into a playful, wet hug, lifting me off my feet briefly before setting me back down with a splash. “We’re officially unstoppable.”

I laughed, caught up in the infectious joy of the moment, even as I tried to shove him away playfully. “We’re a pretty good team,” I admitted, feeling the heat in my cheeks again as I realized how much I meant it.

“Good? We’re amazing,” Oscar corrected, his grin wide and genuine. He was still holding onto my arm, and the closeness between us was impossible to ignore. “And just for the record, I’m always down for a rematch. Same team?”

I looked at him, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin, the cool water around us, and the flutter of excitement that had been there all day. “Same team,” I agreed, smiling as I splashed him one last time. “But only if you promise to keep showing off.”

Oscar’s laugh rang out clear and carefree, echoing across the pool. “Deal. With you around, I can’t help it.”

Before I could fire back a playful retort, the sound of my mom’s voice cut through the afternoon air. “Hey, everyone! Dinner’s almost ready!” she called from the patio, waving a spatula like a dinner bell. “Come dry off and get ready to eat!”

Immediately, the savory aroma of grilled kabobs wafted toward us, filling the air with the smoky scent of marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onions, all sizzling perfectly on the grill. My stomach rumbled in response, and I could already imagine the burst of flavors—the juicy, seasoned meat, the slight char from the grill, and the sweet tang of roasted vegetables. I could smell warm, buttery corn on the cob, the faint, sweet scent of freshly baked bread, and the mouthwatering aroma of garlic butter wafting from a pan of golden potatoes roasting nearby. The sharp, tangy scent of freshly made tzatziki filled the air, mingling with hints of lemon zest and olive oil, making the whole backyard smell like a perfect summer feast.

I glanced at the others, who were already paddling toward the pool’s edge, eager to get their hands on the spread. “Guess it’s time to eat,” I said, half to myself, but Oscar was still watching me with that easy smile, his gaze lingering a little too long.

“Need a hand?” he asked, swimming over and extending his arm to help me out. His eyes stayed locked on mine, but as I reached up to take his hand, I could feel the weight of his gaze trailing over me—curious, appreciative, and making my pulse quicken all at once.

“Uh, sure,” I mumbled, feeling awkwardly aware of the way the water dripped off my skin, each droplet tracing a cool path down my legs. Oscar’s grip was firm and warm as he pulled me up, his fingers wrapping around mine with an effortless strength that sent a jolt of awareness straight to my core. His touch lingered just a second longer than necessary, like he wasn’t quite ready to let go, and when he finally did, the absence of his hand felt oddly significant, like a small but noticeable void.

For a brief moment, everything else seemed to blur into the background—the laughter from the pool, the faint sizzle of the grill, the warm chatter of his sisters in the distance. It was just the two of us, and I was hyper-aware of every detail: the way his eyes traced the water cascading off my legs, the slight upward curve of his lips as if he found the whole scene incredibly fascinating, and the way his gaze felt almost tangible, brushing over me like a warm caress.

I reached for my towel, wrapping it around myself in a clumsy attempt to shield against the sudden vulnerability of his stare. I tried to focus on drying off, rubbing the soft fabric over my arms and shoulders, but every time I looked up, Oscar’s eyes were still on me—intense, unwavering, and far too distracting.

He leaned casually against the pool’s edge, his wet hair slicked back, the sun catching droplets on his skin that made him look like some kind of Greek statue come to life. But it was his expression that really caught me off guard—his usual playful smirk had softened, replaced by something more thoughtful, almost contemplative. It was like he was seeing me differently, not just the girl who had been splashing and laughing with him all day, but someone who held his attention in a way that felt new and unexpected.

“You alright there?” Oscar asked, his voice low and a little rough around the edges, pulling me out of my tangled thoughts. He didn’t look away, and his eyes flickered with something I couldn’t quite place—curiosity, admiration, maybe even a hint of something deeper.

“Yeah, just… you know, drying off,” I replied, trying to sound casual, but my voice betrayed me, coming out breathless and light. I patted my hair with the towel, desperately hoping it would distract from the heat creeping up my neck and cheeks. But his gaze stayed locked on mine, like he was searching for something in my expression that I didn’t even know was there.

Oscar’s lips quirked into a small, knowing smile. “You sure? You look a little… flustered,” he said, the teasing back in his tone, but softer, gentler than before. There was a hint of something else in his voice too, something that made my heart skip.

I rolled my eyes, trying to play it off even though I could feel my blush deepening under his scrutiny. “I’m not flustered,” I said, but it sounded weak even to my ears. “It’s just… hot out, and the water’s cold, and…” I trailed off, realizing I was babbling.

He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by my struggle to keep my composure. “Sure, blame the weather,” he said, his voice laced with that familiar flirtation that made my pulse quicken. “But for the record, you’re pulling it off pretty well.”

I bit back a smile, unable to meet his eyes directly as I wrapped the towel tighter around me. “Thanks, I guess,” I mumbled, feeling simultaneously embarrassed and oddly exhilarated by his attention. He made it impossible to just shrug things off, to pretend like his lingering gaze didn’t affect me when, in reality, it felt like the most charged thing in the entire backyard.

Oscar pushed off the pool’s edge and stepped closer, his presence warm and solid, droplets of water still glistening on his skin. “You know,” he said, voice low and intimate, “I’ve seen a lot of people get out of pools, but none of them have ever managed to make it look like… this.”

I stared at him, caught between laughter and mortification. “Like what? Wet?” I shot back, trying to diffuse the tension, but it only made him smile more, a lazy, appreciative smile that sent another wave of heat rushing to my face.

“No,” he replied, taking a beat as if considering his next words carefully. “Like you’re the best thing I’ve seen all day.” His voice was quieter now, more earnest, and the sincerity in his eyes made my breath hitch.

The world seemed to tilt just a little, the sounds around us fading into the background as I searched for a response that wouldn’t make me sound like a complete idiot. “You… you’re ridiculous,” I said, barely managing to keep my voice steady. But there was no hiding the way my cheeks were blazing or the way my heart was pounding in my chest.

Oscar just grinned, seemingly pleased with himself as he picked up his own towel and started to dry off, though his eyes kept drifting back to me every few moments. It was like he couldn’t help himself, like something about this silly, sun-soaked afternoon had shifted between us in a way that neither of us fully understood yet.

I tried to play it cool, focusing on the scent of the food that was calling us closer. But it was hard to ignore the electric current in the air, the way Oscar’s eyes lingered on me with an intensity that made me feel seen, maybe even a little wanted. The warmth of his gaze seemed to burn hotter than the sun, like he was committing every detail of me to memory—the way my hair clung damply to my shoulders, the flush of my skin, the shy smiles I kept trying to hide.

I fidgeted with my towel, feeling suddenly self-conscious, but Oscar’s attention never wavered. He stepped closer, his expression still caught between playful and sincere, as if he was searching for something in my reaction that would let him keep pushing the boundaries. His fingers grazed the towel slung over his shoulder as he looked at me, and there was a softness in his eyes that wasn’t there before—a kind of unspoken question hanging between us.

“You don’t have to be so modest, you know,” he said, his voice low and smooth, with that familiar edge of teasing that I’d grown so used to. But there was a gentleness there, too, a hint of something more genuine. “It’s okay to let people see how great you are.”

I blinked, caught off guard by the shift from playful banter to something more personal, something that made my heart stumble. “You’re really laying it on thick today, huh?” I said, trying to laugh it off, but the words came out shakier than I intended.

Oscar shrugged, his smile turning softer, less cocky. “Only because you make it easy,” he said simply, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. The way he said it—without hesitation, without the usual bravado—made my pulse quicken, and I had to look away, pretending to adjust my towel just to break the intensity of his stare.

But he wasn’t letting up. As we walked toward the patio, his gaze never strayed far, occasionally dipping down as if he couldn’t help but take in every detail. I could feel the weight of it, warm and steady, and it made my skin tingle in a way that was both exhilarating and unnerving.

We reached the table where the food was spread out—a colorful array of kabobs, salads, and bowls brimming with sides. My mom was fussing over the final touches, sprinkling fresh herbs over a platter of roasted vegetables, while the others were already grabbing plates and chatting animatedly. But I was still caught in the lingering tension of Oscar’s words, the way he’d looked at me like I was something special, something worth noticing.

“Hey,” Oscar said softly, catching my arm just as I reached for a plate. His touch was gentle, a light brush of his fingers that sent another wave of heat rushing through me. “I meant what I said, you know. You really are… something else.”

I turned to face him, my heart pounding so loud I was sure he could hear it. His eyes were serious, searching mine as if waiting for some kind of acknowledgment. And for once, I didn’t have a sarcastic comeback or a teasing remark. All I could do was nod, my voice barely above a whisper. “Thanks, Oscar.”

His smile widened, this time more genuine than any of the smirks he’d flashed all day. “Anytime,” he said, his voice full of unspoken promises that made my chest tighten.

As I picked up my plate and moved to join the others, I could still feel the weight of his gaze on me, warm and unyielding. It was a look that said everything and nothing all at once, a silent acknowledgment that maybe, just maybe, this was more than just a poolside flirtation. And as we sat down to eat, surrounded by the familiar hum of conversation and laughter, I couldn’t help but wonder where this unexpected spark between us would lead—or if I was ready to find out.

─────────────────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───────────────────

taglist! @mingyusbigrighttoe @theblueblub @demandealalune @linnygirl09

[witherstorm0101]

crossover with roblox Pressure cuz my sci-fi loving ass is in love with it

(tsk.. unfortunately, I was lucky to get THESE idiots as my partners.) (jesus. jesus. I'm in one team with the scariest serial killer. god help me.) -daaamn look at this fancy fuckin` shark, sport! -yeah, sure, dave... wait, WHAT?!

-this way. -w-what?.. into the water?!!

-kennedy, are you stupid? -cannonball! ^_^ -william, there are metal pins down there.

[north-wilkesboro-moonshine-cave]

ur tags about le mans are fascinating and only further indicating that my friends' initial new years resolution of Get Gee Into Our Trinity of Sports (Nascar-Indy-F1) is going to have...very funny domino effects of me getting into all sports.

I’m deeply enamored with the indy commentators having an ongoing b plot during qualifying involving their golfing abilities

[ohnococo]

Helping Hand | Bartender!Geto x Server!Reader

Geto is always so helpful when you’re stressed…

❥ WC: 1.2k // SFW

❥ Notes: a request for Geto with a bit of an oral fixation. This one is set in this restaurant au.

❥ Warnings: SFW, light flirting, asshole customers mentioned, ice chewing (I know some ppl hate it lol), finger sucking, gn!reader

minors / ageless blogs blocked on sight

Margarita, Mai Tai, Long Island Iced Tea - seeing Suguru this often during your work day thanks to the new Happy Hour deal would normally make your life a lot easier. He’s kind, flirty, even takes your drinks out to your tables himself, knowing his personal touch usually increases your tips (which he insists on you never splitting with him, pointing out how quickly his jar at the bar fills up night after night). With the amount of assholes that had come in today, even his smiling face - and Yuki’s not-so-subtle attempts to play wing-woman as she helps him with the 2-for-1 onslaught behind the bar - had been unable to lift your spirits.

There was a tipping point between alcohol making customers more pliant (and open to putting a little extra money on the table at the end of their meal) and alcohol making them irritable and impatient. So far today your section seemed to almost exclusively be diving right into the latter end of drinking.

This particular table had more or less cannonballed right into being assholes. Mad that a special from last year isn’t still on, annoyed that they couldn’t get a specific booth during the busiest time of the week, changing their order once it’s already been sent back to the kitchen, eating most of it before complaining it was incorrect. Now they were parked at the table, ordering more drinks, racking up a bill you already knew you were lucky to get the change in the bottom of their purses as a tip on top of.

Suguru has a keen eye, even when he’s swamped and pouring drink after drink, so he’d been extra careful with every order you’d sent back from them. Filling drinks to the brim, low ice, a little extra on the garnishes, and he’d reminded you every time you came over to grab them that he’d have brought them over personally if only he could get a second to step away from the bar.

Alas, even with Yuki there alongside him, you were just that busy tonight. The offer still gave you butterflies, something you suspected that Suguru knew all too well as he seemed to always manage to break away from whatever he was doing if only for a second to send a smile your way as you pick up drinks.

This visit to the bar rewards you with his smile as usual when you rush over to grab the latest batch of drinks, but this time he lingers a little longer than he had earlier in the night.

“Hey.” It’s said softly, barely audible over the chatter of the packed restaurant and the dissonance of the TVs playing various sports games, but it earns your full attention nonetheless. “Take a breather if you need to, they can wait.”

He nods towards your table, and you follow his gaze, wanting to take his suggestion but not wanting to make your work any harder than it already is. “They’ll complain…”

You look back to him just as he shrugs. “They’re going to complain anyway. I think that’s their main hobby.”

You laugh, happy to let a little of the tension building in your shoulders release, and Suguru notices right away, “There you go, just relax a little. Here, I’ll join you.”

He dips beneath the bar for a second, bringing up his own water he had stashed away beneath, and taking a drink as he leans against the bar. He tilts it back far enough to pour a little ice into his mouth, before an idea hits him for while he’s got you captive for a minute. “Want me to pour you a drink?”

“Suguru…”

“Non-alcoholic, obviously.” He smiles, in a way that tells you the non-alcoholic part may just be in quotes. The flash of his teeth and his lowered lids actually has you considering it for a moment, then considering other ways to relieve your stress as his mouth distracts you.

His jaw tenses as he bites down on the ice, and his eyes stay on yours as he hollows his cheeks and moves the cold fragments around in his mouth. He pushes it to one side with his tongue, brows lifting in a way that exposes just how obvious you are when he draws your attention to his mouth like this. Not that you were ever able to be subtle when he was always chewing on ice, or moving a toothpick around in his mouth, or any of the other things that he surely must know highlight his perfect jaw and soft lips…

“Don’t worry, you’re allowed to say yes.” His voice pulls you from your train of thought, something you’re grateful for as you know you can’t let yourself get too distracted tonight.

“Sorry Suguru, I’m only half way through my shift. Gotta stay sharp.”

He nods, look of disappointment and acceptance battling for prominence on his handsome face, before chewing the last of the ice that hadn’t melted from the heat of his mouth as he slides the drinks closer to you across the bar. “Fair enough, maybe later.”

“Yeah, later sounds nice.”

You take a breath as you pick up the drinks, preparing yourself for whatever complaint your table will come up with next, and turn to face them.

Suddenly, Gojo goes whizzing by, plates counterbalanced perfectly on his tray, though you aren’t quite so lucky with your balance as you jolt back and out of the path he’d already corrected, spilling one of the drinks down your hand as he throws a quick apology over his shoulder on his way over to his own section.

“Shit…” You turn back to the bar to set the drinks down on cocktail napkins, only to find Suguru already reaching over to top up what had spilled, saving you potential hassle from your table.

You take a few extra napkins from the pile and lift your arm to dab at the drops running down it, happy you at least weren’t going to be stuck with the deadly sticky combination of grenadine and orange juice splashed on your top, and shoot Suguru a relieved smile as he wipes the outside of the glass before resettling it’s straw and sliding it back over to you.

“There you go, good as new.”

“Thanks, I appreciate it.”

You reach for the drink, only to be stopped by a gentle hand on your wrist, with a breathy sigh of, “Wait.” coming from Suguru’s perfect mouth.

You expect an extra garnish, another napkin to clean your fingers further, or one of the other million gestures Geto has in his arsenal to make your job a little easier. You expect anything but what he actually does as he pulls your hand to his mouth, eyes still on yours, and quickly sucks any remaining stickiness off of each of your fingers one by one. It’s quick, an action done with a casualness as if it were entirely normal, though the glint in his eyes as he carefully observes you for any signs of discomfort betrays the reality of it all.

He releases your hand and pulls his bottom lip into his mouth, sucking at it as if it would provide any lingering taste of your fingertips. “All clean.”

Then he sends you on your way, because the assholes at table 6 are waiting after all. Though they’re the last thing on your mind as you leave the bar with your head spinning.

Dividers by @//cafekitsune

[totromanticfool]

It's you and me this summer

Hcs for the nxx boys going on holiday with you (order: Luk - Marius - Vyn - Artem) maybe a bit ooc? (its been a while) Enjoy!

Luke

If you travel by plane, he will offer his shoulder for you to sleep on. He will wake you for snack time though!

If you travel by car, you will switch with driving, and he will have a full playlist with music to keep you both in vacation spirits.

Cannonballs in the pool every single time, then shakes out his hair like a really cute dog. (a golden retriever prob)

Probably burns easily, you will have to remind him about sunblock.

Makes you join karaoke with him out of the blue.

Will take you to little local places to eat, might get a food poisoning from it, but it will be worth it, to see his beautiful genuine smile.

Marius.

First class travel everywhere. Marius is used to it, so you should, too.

By car, he hires someone to drive, so you can both relax closely together in the back seat

Splashes you with water when you try to ease into the pool.

If you are both in a good mood, he will pick you up and throw you in the pool. Has you piggyback ride him in the pool as well, to keep you close.

Probably has staff around him (and you!) For all your needs. Miss wants a drink? It's there within a second. Some shade? Parasol building on the spot.

But the one thing Marius will do himself is apply your sunblock.

He might write something like ♡Marius on your back, so it will be visible agianst te rest of the colored skin.

Vyn

Traveling by plane? He picked out a few books you both can read, while you can choose the music.

By car? He drives. He wants you to relax as much as possible.

He's it the pool on a big floaty with a cup holder. Has a cocktail in it and maybe paid off a waiter to refill it every time he puts the empty glass in the air. (Fight me for this one! I see him as a diva on vacation, canon in chibi lounge 'member?)

Offers to help put on sunblock just to be able to touch your skin.

If there is a wine trip, you will take it. Vyn will have all the knowledge on it and tells you about it with that sparkle in his eyes.

Artem

Traveling by plane, first class. It is expensive but he wants you to relax to the fullest. Even he will close his eyes for a nap.

By car? He drives. He doesn't want you to worry and relax.

Does laps in the pool early in the morning.

Reminds you every few hours to apply sunblock. If you ask him to help, he will turn red, but do it, with a very serious face.

He will do his research before the trip. Knows all the food spots and cultural trips are already planned (only if you want to)

Will act like your personal butler. He will not relax until you are.

You will have to remind him to sit down and enjoy the view every once in a while. (You're his view, obviously)

If you ask him what he really wants to do, he will tell you he wants to visit that super romantic couples spot. (All the while sporting his signature red ears and cheeks)

This has been sitting in my drafts for a while, but i never had the feeling it was 'done' now i know i cant put more in it for now, it was time for me to post it.

until the next drabble!

Love, Hann ❤

[nerdierholler]

Olympics question for my darling Ethan ! What summer sports does he enjoy watching? If he competed, which event would be compete in? 💕 hope kitty is healing well, too! (~agentnatesewell)

Thank you for the ask! Skeeter is doing good. So far she doesn’t mind the extended cone time and my vet is working on a dermatologist referral for us as a next step.

I imagine Ethan as being fairly sporty. He played at least one sport in school, but wasn’t the star player or anything. Running was part of training when he was younger and now it’s just an easy way to stay in shape, plus he likes the alone time.

I think he’s interested in watching sports he doesn’t know much about or would never get to try like water polo, fencing, diving, and gymnastics. In theory, never at the olympic level, he could play soccer, go for a long bike ride, freestyle swim in a pool or play basketball but he’s never going to a do anything but a cannonball off a diving board lol

If he competed I think it would be a longer distance run of some sort but not marathon, something on the track. If trail running/cross country was an olympic sport I could see that too but he isn’t a steeplechase person.

This was such a fun ask! Thank you!

[justjensenanddean]

Jensen Ackles Solo Panel | JIBCon 2023 (February 25, 2023)

(loriladeakali)

‘Yes I do make my kids listen to radio company… they haven’t called CPS on me yet!’ (x)

Jensen: “I do force my children to listen to my music” They really like Cannonball. They haven’t heard all the new album yet - which just dropped & is doing really well! Steve keeps texting him w updates about it being like #3 on the country charts (!) (x)

Ok. JJ has her own playlist that she makes Jensen play on the way to school. It has Taylor Swift, Harry Styles (which led to some woooooooo and a Calm Down!! From Jensen) and some song about a sunroof. (x)

Jensen: arrow can hear a song and then play it on the piano. #jib11  (x)

Jensen: his 6yo daughter Arrow has taken to the piano. She hears a song & goes & picks it out by ear! For now they’re just letting her have fun with it. Thought about having her take lessons but they don’t want it to become un-fun for her when she’s just 6 (x)

Jensen talking about his daughter JJ: she’ll grab his phone & have it for “seconds - seconds!! And everything’s changed! I don’t know how to get it back! & I ask her to change it back & she’s like, No.”  She’s been making her own playlists on spotify & apple music on his phone (x)

Jensen never thought he would get to do music, so he is very grateful to all of us for the support shown to Radio Company (x)

Jensen: they're hoping to see where the Radio Company shows are going but they "don't know yet. We'll see" (x)

Q about JA now seeing more of the production process. JA: turns out getting a show on the air is a monumental feat. So many pitches, the odds are so stacked against it. Safest thing a studio exec can say is no.  (x)�� JA: “It is a hard business to be in. It is a business of rejection.” Been in the development process now for half a dozen different shows, & Winchesters is the only one that launched. (cryptic description of one other that had “big players”, but “timing wasn’t right”) (x)  (very thoughtful response on this whole issue btw - I failed to capture it all - clearly he’s been thinking about it a lot, about how to launch new shows) (x)

JA can’t find his phone  He wants to look something up to answer a fan q  (x)

Q about fight scenes: did you have any experience w fighting technique? JA: No, never trained in any of the fighting disciplines. But has done a lot of sports, thinks of himself as “fairly athletic”, so what he does is ask an expert what they’d do, then try to mimic them  (x)

opening fighting scene in Atomic Monsters ep (15x04) is favorite fighting scene of Jensen, and it wasn't even scripted! He just wanted to do something fun, so they added it into the ep  (x)

Jensen's stunt double, who he worked with since Dark Angel, went on to become Jason Momoa's stunt double when he [the stunt double] "got too famous"  (x)

The stunt coordinator on #TheBoys was so impressed by Jensen's great input that he started calling him "fight coordinator"  (x)

JA on stunts/fights: On The Boys, there are way bigger fights than SPN. On the Boys he rehearsed 2 wks for 1 fight scene (on SPN set it was like 20 min). Got to come up w different moves, even had some creative input. Stunt guy used so many of JA’s (x)  suggestions that he started calling JA the “fight coordinator!” Then when he landed the Big Sky role, The Boys’ stunt coordinator guy called up Big Sky’s and said “you’re getting one of my best fight coordinators”. & Big Sky then made him a hat that says “Fight Coordinator” (x)

Jensen about thinking his son threw up in his mouth: just swallow it, swallow it and you can have some water (x)

( Sue_Bcn )

[ishouldbedoinghw]

You Can't Erase Me

One Piece fanfic, part 9: Tavern Wench

Previous parts are in my pinned masterlist.

A woman enslaved by the celestial dragons is found by a man with red hair. Angst and comedy ensues.

A/N: Y'all know the drill. This and some future chapters of this story have been inspired by music I love listening to while writing or planning out scenes in my head. I highly recommend the Derina Harvey Band for some rock-inspired sea shanties, and I also really like Karilene's album inspired by the story of Anne Bonney.

TW: Some self deprecating language, alcohol consumption, Shanks

I might make a playlist of the specific songs that inspired this chapter, and I'll also link the songs used for specific moments because they really helped shape this chapter and the sort of energy I want to portray.

As we neared the town once again, the sun had sunk low in the sky, throwing its last rays over the sea in hues of orange and a slight pink. I held onto Shanks's arm, as he had insisted he had to be the one escorting "the lady" inside since he was the captain. Despite evidently wanting to look "manly", he still sported a hideous pair of shorts and dirty sandals.

How in the hell is he expecting to go dancing in those anyway?

Our party consisted of the wretched ginger, Yasopp, Benn, Roux, and myself, the former two having burst into some out-of-tune melody about their son John and how he'd lost his limbs to cannonballs or something. I had to admit the song was pretty funny, but I refused to give Shanks the satisfaction of a laugh, so I bit my tongue to keep a straight face.

The "tavern" as Benn had described it, was huge, and nothing like the little bars I had pictured. A massive name of lights almost covered one side of the building, and hoards of people were crowded around double doors, yelling and laughing at each other.

DELILAH'S JOINT

In truth, the place wasn't all that fancy, just a large, almost circular building that looked like it may have been a barn in a former life. The lights looked like the newest installment, as the white paint covering the walls was peeling in many places. I tried to focus my hearing to catch any music leaking through the doors, but all I could make out was the chattering of the crowd.

"Move, you're stepping on my foot!"

"Why couldn't I just stay home, there's too many people here."

"It's too bad Loreley left this place, I loved being able to hear her sing."

"What's your favorite on her new album, mine has to be the one about Delilah."

"That's everyone's favorite, mine is Merry, the one about the Straw Hats."

"That's because you're a freak for the cyborg."

"Franky is hot and you know it, and at least I don't keep Roronoa's wanted poster in my room."

"Shut up-"

"Oh my God, is that Hawkeyes?"

The warlord? I tried to peek over the heads of the crowd, but even my new glasses couldn't help see through people.

"Oi, Mihawk's here!" Shanks piped up cheerfully, also scanning the crowd, "We've gotta get him to join us for drinks-"

A sweet, almost sultry voice silenced everyone. I couldn't even hear the hum of bugs or twittering of the birds.

"It's Emily-"

A thunderous roar swept through the crowd, cheering and chanting Emily's name.

"-and you know what time it is."

No, I did not know what time it was, and I certainly didn't appreciate the way people started pushing and shoving each other to get through the doors. It took one look from the crew to get people to skirt around us, but the feeling of so many strangers looking at us was still overwhelming.

Shanks' arm moved to curl around my shoulders as he herded me and the crew inside and to a large table near the back wall. The inside of the tavern was smaller than I assumed it would be, but it was densely packed with people adorned with jewels and heavily perfumed. The sweet smells mixing in the air all but stung my nose, my eyes burning as I fought to adjust. The light was dimmed, but glowing blues and purples illuminated the floor and walls.

"Emily" as I'd heard before, was a tall, lithe woman with waist length white hair and breezy, iridescent blue silk draped around her. She was the spitting image of a siren in folk tales, with bright beckoning eyes and a slight quirk at the corner of her mouth. It only took one glance around the screaming crowd to understand that she knew the effect she had on people. I didn't even know I was capable of blushing until she glanced in the direction of the crew.

Although, I had a hunch her gaze was directed at Shanks.

I sat there for a minute, watching the lights ebb and flow, and as my attention became focused on the way the patterns of the lights hitched over the uneven floor, the roar of the the crowd became a dull buzz. It was Benn that had to nudge me, his eyes shining with delight, after the show started.

The sound of the first note seemed to explode from the stage,' jolting me in my seat. Yasopp seemed to find that funny, slapping Roux on the arm as he cackled.

The actual song, however, was light and eerie, like some haunted lullaby. Emily's hips swayed with the rhythm, and long strings of beads hung around her waist, following just behind her movements.

Back and forth, back and forth, back and forth-

Back and forth

Back and

forth

Back

and

forth.

Where had I heard that song before?

I was swaying back

and

forth.

I was singing slowly, I couldn't wake the baby.

Why won't the cage stop swinging? Who is making all the noise? Didn't they know the baby was sleeping? Didn't they know the father would be angry? I wanted to eat, I wanted to live-

I was scared. Why was I back here? I'm not supposed to be here.

One

two

three-

A hand. On my arm. I was supposed to be alone up here.

A murmur. A squeeze. A shake.

A loud, crisp slap. I came to life, chest heaving, with a burning left cheek.

"What- What the hell?" I spluttered, grabbing my face.

"Welcome back, Pipsqueak."

Pipsqueak? No one on the crew calls me that-

"Oi, up here," the voice said again, this time with fingers snapping in my face.

"Stop that-"

"You're in no place to be givin' demands, 'Squeak."

The voice belonged to a large-statured woman who was currently looming over me with a scowl. Her hair was gray and a little coarse, and her right eye was covered with a black patch. As old as she looked, the woman was all lean and tough, with weathered skin that reminded me of Benn's. A pirate, perhaps? She left the impression she'd spent a lot of time in sun and salt water.

"Did you- slap me?" I blurted, unable to think of anything else that sounded more intelligent.

She barked out a laugh, deep and throaty.

"Real funny joke, girl. What I'd like to know, Loreley, is why you're starved-looking and shacking up with Red-Hair." She leaned in closer, squinting at me. "And also why your eyes are fuckin' yellow."

Loreley? I'd heard someone mention the name Loreley outside, it had sounded like a musician or something.

"My name isn't Loreley, what the hell are you talking about."

She snarled and pushed me back over. "Bull-fuckin'-" She stopped, gazing at my face. "Shit."

She backed off of me then, tilting her head as she continued to stare. Then she just shrugged and turned away, saying, "My bad, kid, thought you were someone else."

What the hell? "Wait-" But she'd already disappeared, leaving me alone.

Shakily standing up, I did my best to gather my surroundings. The walls around me were significantly more weathered than the hall I had just been in, and were covered in brightly-lit mirrors. Everywhere I turned was my own reflection surrounded in light bulbs. The place was also a mess, with chairs, fabric, and- makeup?

I was in some kind of dressing room.

Where the hell am I, and where is my crew? Panic seized my chest, and I struggled to breathe. Stumbling a bit, I tried to find a door, a window, sunlight, sound, or anything that could lead me out.

The woman hadn't seemed interested in me after I had turned out not to be Loreley, but would she be angry if I escaped? Was I a prisoner?

A door to my right burst open, and a hoard of blue-clad girls chattering excitedly scurried in, each claiming a mirror. I quickly turned away, face burning, after some of them started to undress.

I could see the last two girls coming through the door in my peripheral, and before I could look away, they made a beeline for me.

"I told you it wasn't her, dumbass." The shorter girl said. She resembled Emily a bit with her long blonde hair thin frame, or perhaps it was just the gauzy blue fabric she was dressed in. It seemed she was playing on the siren aspect of the singer as well, with fake pearls and seashells scattered on her hair and around her neck.

"Shut up, at least I didn't miss an entire line because I forgot the most popular song in this fucking hemisphere." The other girl shot back in a bit of a deep voice. She was nearly twice the height of the blonde, with pastel pink hair tied loosely behind her neck.

"Oh that's rich coming from you," She put on a dramatic forlorn expression, holding her head in her hands. "Quickly! is this the blue dress song or the white dress one!"

She earned a light shove for that, the pink-haired girl's face a bright red at her comment.

"Where am I?" I blurted, gaining back their full attention.

"Um- backstage? The dressing room?" The pink-haired girl looked confused. "Aren't you here to replace Bernadette during the shanties?"

"What?"

The blonde shrugged, starting to pull shells out of her hair. "Listen, maybe the newbie's still out in the hall-"

"Wait a damn minute-" And the pink haired girl pulled her friend closer and whispered hurriedly, glancing at me every so often. The only thing I could make out was a "fucking Delilah" and a few light snickers. My heart was pounding too loudly in my chest to really eavesdrop.

After finishing their private discussion, the taller one turned and clasped her hands together. "Okay, girlie, our boss you met earlier? The old grouchy one?"

I nodded, unsure where this was going.

"Well, she seems to be convinced you can dance after meeting you exactly once, so we are gonna dress your ass up and test that theory."

"What the fuck-"

"Yeah, I'm not sure what's happening either, but I don't get paid to ask those questions."

"You bitch and moan plenty on the clock, so-" The blonde started before being muffled by her friend's hand over her mouth.

"I'm not on for another hour, so I'm the one who gets to watch this shit fail."

I wasn't sure whether I should be offended or not.

----

In the next few minutes, I had been stripped of my clothing, and laced up in some off-white, ruffled dress and a pearlescent corset.

'Tavern wench' was what the pink-haired girl, whose name I learned was Maria, called it.

While I wasn't a fan of how my shoulders and scarred neck were exposed, I couldn't deny I looked damn good in that corset. The laughter I'd received at the market today was almost forgotten as I studied how my figure looked.

It was amazing how much feeling pretty could matter to a person.

I studied Maria as she bustled around me, picking up various bottles or brushes. Her face was brightly colored in dramatic stage makeup, her lips and cheeks shades of pink similar to her hair. It looked lovely on her, and I couldn't help myself from saying-

"I like your hair, it's really pretty."

I should've known something was up when she got a devious glint in her eye as she politely thanked me. After a beat, she reached up and ripped the hair straight from her scalp, making me jump back in horror. I wanted to scream when the wad of hair landed in my lap-

It was a wig.

Maria was cackling her ass off, holding her stomach and slapping the table, knocking a couple of bottles over.

"I will never get tired of pulling that shit." She said, trying to gather herself. Her real hair was cropped close to the scalp, similar to mine, and a deep brown.

I shakily set the wig down on the table in front of me, not loving the idea of the residue of someone's scalp resting in my hands.

What I did love was how at ease I felt around Maria. I hadn't interacted with anyone but the crew or a doctor since I washed up. After making sure I knew the crew was fine and that they knew where I was, Maria had been very considerate of my personal space without coddling me. I felt like a woman getting ready with another woman, not a little girl acting as a doll. It was nice not being treated like glass.

"Here." She was in front of me now, holding a brush dipped in red. "For your cheeks and lips. Rouge is old-fashioned, but I think it'll flatter you," she said, dabbing at my face. "It's more historically accurate too."

After painting my face, she stood back and studied me, heavy brows pinched. Turning and rummaging through a cabinet above me, she said, "So, how'd you end up on a crew with the Red-Hair Pirates, if you don't mind me asking."

I chewed on my lip, unsure of what to say. Both Benn and Hongo had warned me plenty of how the mark on my back couldn't be discussed with people, although they wouldn't tell me why.

I decided on "They found me at sea." followed up with, "I don't have any family around."

She hummed, pulling a couple of wigs out. One was a red shade close to the color of my own hair, and the other was long, black and curly. She held the red one up close to me, then let out a tsk and laid it next to her pink one.

"You know who Loreley is, Jett?" She asks, running her fingers through the black wig.

I was happy to have a question I could answer truthfully. "I've heard her name; she's a musician, right?"

"Yep, she's more of a local legend at the moment, but everyone I know that listens to her stuff is hardcore into it." She squints, and adjusts one of the straps on my dress. "Honestly, you look a lot like her. A little taller maybe, and the eyes are a different color, but I'm surprised more people here haven't trampled over each other trying to get your autograph or something."

"It seems like you know her personally."

"I do," Maria said, holding the black wig up to me now. "She got her big start right here in this building, we all know her. It's why the boss made such a big deal about thinking you were her, she's practically her daughter."

I had wondered about that, why Delilah has seemed so insistent on interrogating me. I still wasn't sure why she'd insisted on me dancing tonight, but at least she wasn't still standing over me.

"Loreley is the whole reason the rest of us are even here. She's the one who got Delilah to open up her place to let other performers get in front of a big crowd." She was pulling the wig over my head now.

"There," she said, securing it. "Your hair color is sick, but it looks too much like hers, you might confuse people and get some unwanted attention."

"Plus," she added, pulling her own wig back on, "Now no one can tell you're Red-Hair's girl, makes it a little safer."

"Oh- I'm not-" I stammered, shaking my head.

"Oh? No? Just your captain, got it." She paused, thinking. "Is he, you know, with anyone?"

"Not that I'm aware of? What-"

"I always thought Beckmann was more handsome, but he's old enough for it to be a little weird-"

"Please stop talking about the guys I live with that way," I groan, "I'm sorry, it's just weird for me."

"Understandable," she quips, leaning into the mirror and adjusting her hair. "You have no clue how many people come here begging to see Emily, or ask us what her favorite food is or some shit."

I giggled a little, remembering how many people had gone feral watching the white-haired girl.

"Emily's the next one to go big, I think. Delilah's picky about who opens for her most nights, so she shows a lot of faith in her."

I hum, nodding my head.

A voice calls through the door in the corner. "Delilah's first set is starting, the newbie better her head into what she's doing here."

"Don't be rude, Goldfish, she didn't faint of thirst over your girlfriend or something."

The voice spluttered, and the door slammed. I could still hear muttering as they stomped away.

"Alright girlie, time to figure out how high the boss is," Maria says, ushering me to the door. "Even if you don't know what you're doing, you'll look great, so no one will really care-"

"Maria!" A different voice this time, it sounded like the girl Maria had been with. "Hey, Maria!" She sounded more panicked this time. "Bernadette was supposed to do Calico Jack, and Delilah won't let either of us do it."

Supposed to do what?

Maria groaned, looking extremely agitated. "Well, shit."

She turned and jogged away, returning with a rum bottle, a similar kind to the ones all over the Red Force. After taking a large swig, and grimacing as she swallowed, she handed it to me. "Drink up, and good fucking luck, babe."

[kits-shrine]

Ingall opened one with a chuckle. Agni drapped Reiko over his shoulders like a scarf.

Bya squeaked as Shakko plucked her up with a laugh as she was unguarded and cannonballed into a snow poof.

Kit laughed as she scooped up Touma and followed suit to his delight.

Agni found himself sporting a red tailed moustache with Reiko snickering.

[blaseballshipbracket]

BLASEBALL SHIP BRACKET ROUND 1

64 ships enter, one ship leaves! who will reign supreme? how will your faves fare? it's a tlournament for the ages!

this is a seeded bracket generated from ships suggested in a google form. round 1 begins thursday, 03/30/23 and will run for one week. propaganda is encouraged - tag this blog and i'll share it!

ROUND 1 MATCHUPS:

Megan Ito/Parker MacMillan VS Leon Duncan/Andrew Trebek

Finn James/Kennedy Loser VS Hewitt Best/Yeong-Ho Garcia

Flattery McKinley/Niq Nyong'o VS Jessica Telephone/Betsy Trombone

Tillman Henderson/Declan Suzanne VS Don Mitchell/Percival Wheeler

Baldwin Breadwinner/Alyssa Harrell VS Axel Cardenas/Miguel Wheeler

Dominic Marijuana/Andrew Solis VS Eduardo Ingram/Leach Ingram

Pedro Davids/Valentine Games VS Anathema Elemefayo/Patty Fox/Hatfield Suzuki

Stevenson Heat/James Mora VS Baby Triumphant/Castillo Turner

Yosh Carpenter/Sebastian Woodman VS Cannonball Sports/Bees Taswell

Igneus Delacruz/Howell Franklin VS Mcdowell Mason/Sexton Wheerer

Allison Abbott/Kichiro Guerra VS Eugenia Garbage/Ziwa Mueller

Caleb Alvarado/Isaac Johnson VS Conner Haley/Sebastian Telephone

Brock Forbes/Adalberto Tosser VS Domino Bootleg/Theodore Honeywell

Lenny Marijuana/Chorby Short VS Moody Cookbook/Landry Violence

Margarito Nava/Nic Winkler VS Riley Firewall/Geraldine Frost

Inez Owens/Bees Taswell VS Paula Turnip/Hiroto Wilcox

Tyreek Olive/Landry Violence VS Fitzgerald Blackburn/Math Velazquez

Val Hitherto/Nerd Pacheco VS Ortiz Lopez/Pitching Machine

Luis Acevedo/Tot Clark VS Derrick Krueger/Sebastian Telephone

The San Francisco Lovers VS Gita Sparrow/Jayden Wright

Tillman Henderson/Mike Townsend VS Famous Owens/Mclaughlin Scorpler

Alaynabella Hollywood/Magi Ruiz VS Nerd Pacheco/Lars Taylor

Nagomi Mcdaniel/York Silk's Mom VS Qais Dogwalker/Grollis Zephyr

Jacob Haynes/Alaynabella Hollywood/Moses Mason VS Burke Gonzalez/Brock Watson/Joshua Watson

Jaylen Hotdogfingers/Jessica Telephone VS Juice Collins/Sutton Dreamy

Sandford Garner/Don Mitchell VS Famous Owens/Nerd Pacheco

Rivers Rosa/Lou Roseheart VS Jode Crutch/Rush Ito

Declan Suzanne/Edric Tosser/Baby Triumphant VS Lady Matsuyama/Bottles Šuljak

Cornelius Games/Richardson Games VS Mags Banananana/Eugenia Bickle

Workman Gloom & PolkaDot Patterson VS Shannon Chamberlain/Kennedy Loser

Caligula Lotus/Beck Whitney VS Steals Mondegreen/Silvaire Semiquaver

Summers Preston/Stephanie Winters VS Haruta Byrd/Bright Zimmerman

[spiderh0rse]

freeman's mind noted part 5, e21-25

e21

images just come to him like a prophet for an angry god

a lil scared of big blue lobster out in Power Up

could solve all his problems by exploding things with his mind

wants marshmallows....

FUNNY NOISES. "HERE'S JOHNNY". MANNNN

thinks headcrabs would make cool lawn ornaments

"rubble rumble rubble rumble rubble rumble" he just likes saying words real quick together

he thinks he's a good liar

doesn't want green slime on his suit :(

not amazed at the orange HEV suit but admits it's good otherwise

THE SUIT DENTS WHEN YOU SHOOT IT SO STOP SHOOTING IT

(not sure why the formatting is doing this.)

e22

"pyew!"

has seen The Terminator

"what's the point of being an honest citizen if I'm just gonna get shot at anyways" FUCK THE TROOPS

has seen Rambo

concerned about accessibility!! :D

"lasers!" Said in the samw done in laser/caution

urgh the electron measurement nonsense. I hate that. Particle and wave. Depends on what you know about it

new sport? Houndeye killing?

Gordon I don't think the soldiers care about fixing the generator

had an old apartment where the basement got flooded because he did a cannonball so sick his bathtub sunk into the floor

"bbbrrrrrrp!"

"NYYYAAA"

hey if you survive the electricity you'd have a sick scar

high five Death!

e23

yes the military is incompetent we all know this

doesn't know how to play guitar

is very polite asking people to not kill him

thinks the radio chatter is dissing him

stresses to the soldiers that he graduated from MIT

seems less bothered by having killed a bunch of people now. Interesting difference from earlier

beepbeepbeepbeepbeep

"I don't like to beep too much" YOU HAVE BEEN BEEPING. ALL SERIES

thinks radios are how The Man finds you

grey map? Haunting.

smushing more words together without proper words to put them apart,, man after my own heart

smuggling an elephant almost wouldn't surprise him

would love rubber on the HEV.

cheery about leaving behind the dying guard

he is not happy right now

e24

may believe cavemen had to deal with gargantuars and HECU. May be ironic

wants to go up

he's a CAT. (meows multiple times) (hisses)

says out loud that he's scared

straining noises,,,

karma strikes him often

thats why the dinosaurs went extinct! Him!

expert in atomic level electricity

has frequently had to sit through family members shitty photo albums

one of the perks of killing everyone: no one can yell at you

he's in great shape! and has been exercising all day! please give this man some food!

likely not forklift certified

would like henchmen throwing switches for him

would sacrifice minions for good parking

threatens someone and then says he won't actually do it because it's be gross

wants to hit the clubs after a good shower

slur count four.

e25

could climb over the concrete but wants a nice ride

thinks a train derailment (shakes violently bnsf derailment-) would look cool

talks about some story about one teacher of his asking if crashing a motorcycle into a haybale or concrete divider is more dangerous at 60mph. My bet is on the haybale. Lots of little things that'll run you through. Nasty stuff. Straw impales telephone poles sometimes. Wear a helmet.

if he were a conductor killing his passengers would be his idea retirement

since no one can see him confused he's still a genius

barnacles now dubbed "string things"

he's covered in BLOOD again

cant emulate turtles and hide in his bright orange shell

expects to find a cult in On A Rail. string theory crowd......

ongoing commentary about if the aliens are demons or not

percussive maintenance does do wonders

pro slavery. not racist somehow. Gambling instead?? I have no idea where he gets these ideas from.

there are just. Unholy screams btw. in the background.

doesn't have a bandolier :'(

hey a switch!

poor guy is Not getting paid for this. Community service.

continues to be grossed out by the barnacles. Reminds him of the summer he worked fast food

"QUIT BEING METAL"

If he were a wizard he says

[helmetkeeper]

playlist based off sharks :]. i got a new favorite animal guys /half-joke.

songs go like "song" + "artist"

"Jaws" + "Lemon Demon"

"Pizza Heroes" (bonus track) + "Lemon Demon"

"Brodyquest" + "Lemon Demon"

"Jaws" (main theme) + "M.S. Art"

"Stranger" + "Spence Bare"

"Ghost Party" + "Messer Chups"

"Magneto" + "Messer Chups"

"Below the Surface" + "Tatu" and "PeKeÑo ReD"

"In The Room Where You Sleep" + "Dead Man's Bones"

"Sunny" + "Boney M."

"Troubadour" + "Vundabar"

"Paraphernalia" + "Temples"

"Twelfth Street Rag" + "Roy Clark"

"Jetpack Joyride Main Theme" + "Halfbrick"

"Scary Flying Shark" + "Kids TV - Baby Shark Songs" (https://youtu.be/79aIfFdNkuo)

"Numbers (I Can Only Count to Four)" + "Psychostick"

"ミッドナイト・ランデブー" (in english: "Midnight Rendezvous") + "CASIOPEA"

"Down Under" + "Men At Work"

"Tequila" + "The Champs"

"Good Vibrations" (remastered 2001) + "The Beach Boys"

"Nausicaä of the Valley of Wind" (opening theme) + "Joe Hisaishi"

"Stampede of the Ohmu" + "Joe Hisaishi"

"Intergalatic" (remastered 2009) + "Beastie Boys"

"Sports" + "Viagra Boys"

"Cannonball" + "The Breeders"

"Nothing Man" + "Sodikken"

"Sky Mall" + "Vulfpeck" and "Vulf"

"Stickbug" + "Buoyant Records"

"Portal muzsika" + "Portal"

"20221127" + "Mac DeMarco"

"Rambunctious Beet" + "DaDood"

"Snow Elves" + "galen tipton"

"最後の楽園" (in english: "The Last Paradise") + "Haruomi Hosono"

"This Is My Beloved" + "Mort Garson"

"A Devil's Touch in the Midwest" + "Macabre Plaza"

"Silhouette" + "Pastel Ghost"

"lain" + "C4FF31N3"

"GOT UR NUMB3R" (v2) + "bugcried"

"Always Forever" + "Cults"

"Summerlove" (Scorccio Edit) + "S-Connection"

"Palmtree Panic" ('P' mix) + "SEGA SOUND TEAM"

"Gelato Beach" + "Arcade Player"

"Rhinestone Eyes" + "Gorillaz"

dividers by @/mordzine and @/waterinyourears

[super-rangers]

Another thing that's kind of interesting about Kaleidoscope... in UIW Janis and Regina spent months rebuilding their friendship before they pursued anything romantic. It struck me on reread that this Regina and Janis have done none of that, and haven't really spoken much. Which makes the kiss more like a canonball into the deep end. Like, I'm trying to picture their post-kiss conversation.

Them talking would require Janis to deal with her trauma surrounding Regina’s accident, and she is not going to do that 😀👍🏼 Janis? Deal with something before she absolutely has to? Ridiculous lol

A cannonball into the deep end is a great way to put it. Regina has 0 self-control and kissed Janis because it felt right and she reallyreally wanted to. 0 thoughts, head empty. Just Janis. Impulsive Regina my beloved 🥰

I don’t want to continue Kaleidoscope bc writing just those two chapters was frustrating enough lmao but come with me on this mini journey, if you will. Janis definitely gets in her head about the kiss, thinking that it was less than genuine because Regina was hyped up on pain meds. Regina is on cloud nine, on the other hand. She kissed her crush, her crush kissed back, she has everything she needs.

I think Janis acts a bit weird towards Regina for the next couple of days. But Regina would really like to kiss Janis again, which means they have to talk about it. After they sort out the fact that Regina meant to kiss Janis, and would like to do it again, they can have a proper conversation about it. They don’t get together right away – Janis is still trying to work through her lingering fear and she’s not going to be able to actually be with Regina until that’s sorted.

(On a lighter note, they definitely have a “you’ve been flirting with me?” “For the past 6 months, thanks for finally noticing” conversation, which is always a fabulous dynamic for these dummies, and I will include it as often as I can.)

I think the result of the post-kiss conversation is Regina telling Janis she’ll wait until Janis is ready. And then she proceeds to act like they’re dating anyways, slowly acclimating Janis to the idea until one day Janis wakes up and realizes that they’ve been dating for months. It’s not that Regina is pushy about Janis’ boundaries or anything, but she’s letting herself act like she’s always wanted to around Janis.

Janis calls Damian and is just deadpan like “I’m dating Regina, aren’t I?” And Damian gets upset bc he bet Gretchen that Janis wouldn’t realize until August.

Janis is just surprised at how not scary it feels. She’s gotten used to Regina being around, gotten used to her playing a sport that scares Janis (and now she just finds it attractive), gotten used to the way Regina kisses her on the cheek when she sits down at lunch.

The next day when Regina sits down at the lunch table and goes to kiss Janis on the cheek, she gets a very pleasant surprise in the form of Janis turning her head and just fully kissing her. (And then the lacrosse table breaks out into screams and cheers because fucking finally.)

[yiga-hellhole]

TFTK Extended Cut: CHAPTER 3: SYNCYTIUM SANCTUM

HIIII EVERYONE I'M BACK! i couldn't help myself but make Yuganon real. i've been teasing the ship in-fic but it's time to stop beating around the bush and give those old men their own chapter.

this time, it's another bathhouse chapter, but yuga meets a little someone else than his other bathmates... old feelings from a previous life come bubbling back to the surface, and Lorule's diva has no choice but to shoot his shot. 6k words under the cut!

ao3 mirror

masterpost

It was a late night. Yuga was taking the evening off… What was left of it, at least. As usual, his co-lieutenant, Ghirahim, seemed eager to burn nearly all his candles in posing before his canvas. The young man was so ethereally beautiful, he hadn’t even minded all the time he was taking up in his schedule. On the contrary; he’d grown so obsessed with the demon’s finely polished features, he simply couldn’t get enough of him. This premature severing of their arrangement was only in concern for his health, really. His back and shoulders were killing him, bringing about the kind of ache that only being dunked in hot water could relieve.

Moonlight nearly bounced off his pearly skin as he passed through the corridors. He had his satchel of various grooming implements slung over his shoulder and a towel wrapped around his body. He was expecting privacy, as the baths were usually empty at this hour. At least, he hadn’t encountered anyone when rinsing the paint stains off. He didn’t mind the occasional witness. His form was immaculate, after all! But the attendants remained flustered around his appearance. Somewhere, they must have recognized him as another male Gerudo and never were two at once supposed to occur. He preferred they thought him an odd, flat-chested lady, instead.

Humming a cheerful tune, the sounds of his approach bounced off the stone walls. In his time here, he’d already put together a routine of all his little favorite spots, and he was finally heading towards the pinnacle of it.

He passed under blue mosaic lanterns, making the already cool light ever colder. Sheer drapes covering the windows to the courtyard brushed his skin as he walked by. Finally, he turned the last corner he needed to get to the baths.

Only to find, after stumbling upon nobody at all the entire evening, that the pool was thoroughly occupied. Seated inside, with massive arms resting upon the edge of the bath, was none other than Ganondorf. From the way he looked up at him from behind fuzzy eyebrows and heavy lids, he’d long heard him coming.

“I do beg your pardon, Milord,” Yuga stammered, adjusting the towel wrapped around his chest in a fluster. “I wasn’t aware this bath was occupied. I will be taking my leave-“

In an instant, he was silenced by the Demon King’s hand, as it rose from the water as he spoke. “The palatial bathhouse accommodates far more than one man at a time, Lord Yuga. I don’t demand otherwise,” he rumbled. “Your presence does not displease me. Come, sit.”

Yuga hesitated for but a moment, eyes wide and hands clasped before his chest. In that split second of nerves, his painter’s eye drew in far more detail than he would normally allow himself. Ganondorf’s hand, now free of its gauntlet, sported sandstone-hued skin on the palm that bled into bronze. Richly calloused was its surface, patterned with grooves and padded muscle. His gaze wandered from his hand to his arm, with muscles like cannonballs under his skin even when relaxed. Straying ever further, he spotted little water droplets caught in the coarse, red hair that adorned his skin, like dew upon the morning grass. A hulking chest nearly the size of a wine barrel protruded from the water, each breath sending soft ripples out into the rest of the bath. 

But what drew him far quicker were the Gerudo’s eyes. Their piercing gold snagged his attention. His gaze could no longer stray further than the skin around those eyes, wrinkled by age, sun, and decades of turmoil. He was truly a King of all kings, the paragon of all that had ever sat upon a throne. Yuga was powerless to move, much less look away.

At least, not until Ganondorf turned his hand, and beckoned him gently. As if tugged by the collar, he stumbled slightly forward and made his way to the edge of the bath. The slapping of his slippers echoed across the water. He came to a halt next to the King, whose massive arms were now leaning casually on the edge of the bath. 

Dared he sit next to him?

Never was he one to be in any measure insecure about his figure, but in the presence of a man whose arm alone could rival his entire torso in size, he found himself a bit hesitant to get into his usual routine. Ganondorf was his counterpart, in a way, yet he felt awfully outmatched in his presence.

Hesitation faded quickly. The mass of vibrant orange hair at his feet shifted. Ganondorf tipped his head back, one of his furrowed-shut eyes cracking open to look up at him. He didn’t need to speak to get his words across; Yuga understood perfectly. It was about time he stopped dilly-dallying restlessly behind him, and joined at his side. 

And so, he sat beside him, just a hand’s breadth or two between his thigh and the Gerudo’s elbow that rested nearby. Yuga’s decision to only as much as dip his feet in the water seemed to puzzle him, but he paid it no mind. He was just a touch too apprehensive about joining him in the water still, finding the prospect of bathing together too bold to suggest. Finally, he undid the tie of his towel around his chest, and let it drop on the tiles below him.

The towel on his head was next. Still damp from his earlier bath, his hair dropped heavily on his now bare shoulders, long enough to drape past his chest and cover him in nymph-like fashion. He peeked past the crack of his eyelids, only to find Ganondorf paying him no heed. In some ways, it irked him, but overwhelmingly, it relieved him of the pressure to put up appearances. So instead, he began to hum softly and retrieved a ceramic jar from his satchel. Fingers bundled together, he retrieved a thick scoop from its insides. The sharp, yet milky scent of the globby cream tingled his nostrils once he rubbed it between his hands. Those same greased, slippery fingers now dragged their way through his hair, squeezing the wet strands between them. By the time he opened his second container, Ganondorf perked up.

“More coconut?” he asked, a brow raised but his eyes remaining closed in leisure.

Yuga laughed, rinsing his hands in the water before massaging the next cosmetics onto his cheeks. “Indeed. The other stuff is far too greasy on my skin.”

Ganondorf grunted, now turning his head to look at him. “I was under the assumption you’d already washed up before you came here. Your hair was wet when you arrived.”

“Oh, I did,” he proclaimed, deftly rubbing the lotion into the negligible bags under his eyes. “My routine is just a little on the intensive side. I’m getting on in age, after all, and I’d much prefer to do so in good health and appearance.”

Ganondorf’s curiosity warmed up into amusement. The corners of his mouth tugged into a grin, baring his magnificently white teeth just a touch. “You sound just like the governesses. Why you choose to visit the bathhouse in their absence is beyond me. They would make for fine company for you.”

He snickered a little, unable to think of a retort, but quickly latched on to the opportunity to learn more about his companion. “Not for you, then, Milord? I assume you, too, came tonight looking for peace.”

“Perhaps, but I don’t mind the company. My Sisters are too shy about bathing with me, and I find myself reluctant to join my other lieutenants. They are far too rambunctious for this place of calm.”

Yuga cackled in response. “Oh, I do so know what you mean. I join them on occasion, but… The spirit of youth, it makes them too wild.”

A hum rumbled out from Ganondorf, followed by a somewhat exasperated nod. He looked out over the water again, allowing a silence to fall. The sound of running water had barely settled in his ears before he spoke again, regaining that dominant tone he always carried. “How do you fare with your fellow commanders?”

“I fare with them swimmingly, Sire. They are beautiful and strong. I’ve grown quite fond of them, over time,” he said, smiling fondly. “In the future, I do hope you will station me with them.”

He nodded again, thoughtfully this time, fiddling with his fingers dipped in the water. “I see. I will have to consider it.”

As he sat lathering himself in scented oils, Ganondorf simply lounged beside him, resting against the edge of the bath and lavishing in the hot water. Soon, he would come to find that calm infectious. He leaned back, propping himself up with his hands behind him, and swished his legs idly in the water. Steam rose from the turquoise water in a haze. Droplets from the moisture coursed down the brightly tiled walls around them, and Yuga found some sticking to his oiled skin, too. A single sigh loosened them, letting them run down his chest and pool down into his lap. His eyes wandered back to the man who sat next to him, as they were bound to do in the presence of such splendor. 

Something stirred in him. He wasn’t sure if it was the dampness of the air that tightened his chest, or something else that clouded his judgment, as he was once again overcome with the need to fuss over him. That beautiful, fiery mane was washed, certainly, but its tips hung carelessly behind him and dipped into the water. Just the thought of split tips on such a well-groomed, noble man was enough to make his skin crawl. He couldn’t stand for it. Not after all that time he spent admiring it, hoping to comb his fingers through!

He cleared his throat softly. “… Milord, if I may be so bold…”

Ganondorf didn’t turn to look at him. “Speak.”

There truly was no subtle way to put this, so he chose the other pathway that always led him right to the King’s favor. Flattery. “Your magnificent locks have drawn my eye for months now, and now that we’re already washing up together… Might I take it upon myself to care for it?”

Ganondorf laughed softly, a mere whisper compared to his usual booming voice, but even this resounded enough for Yuga to feel it deep in his chest. “Care for it?”

He nodded. “Indeed, Milord. I would be honored if you let me braid it.”

For a moment, Ganondorf hummed, weighing his words. “An intriguing offer. Very well, do what you will,” he decided, but not without turning his head ever so slightly to look at him from a side-eye. “But do not let this get out of hand, Yuga. I am aware of your penchant for getting lost in your craft, and I cannot linger too long.”

Yuga deigned to comment with a bit of a giggle and scooted over to sit behind him. A sea of vibrant red hair puffed out before him, ever so slightly relaxed by dampness. Truly, the world was at his fingertips here, and he didn’t waste another second. He ran his fingers through his hair, testing it for knots, but was pleasantly surprised to find that Ganondorf had already taken care of the worst of it when washing it. Fortunately so, as he wasn’t exactly keen on the thought of annoying his King by getting caught in his hair. 

The dreaded Demon King uncharacteristically relaxed under his touch as he kneaded into his hair with a towel, trying to get most of the moisture out from his waving locks. The last thing he wanted was to end up damaging that which he sought to cherish, he thought to himself, parting the mass into sections, comb in hand. His Master didn’t speak, but Yuga didn’t mind it. The room was quiet, save for the sound of running water, or the gentle scrape of sand being whisked across the courtyard tiles outside by the desert winds. But above it all, tantalizingly subtle, and only heard through his will to listen to it, was the soughing of Ganondorf’s breath. Slow, deep, and rhythmic. If Yuga didn’t know any better, he would almost think he felt comfortable around him. 

Thick strands, soft and slippery as silk weaved into twists between his fingers, leaving his hands damp and smelling faintly of orange blossom and sandalwood. The realization almost made him shiver — this Ganon was a refined man. He was strong, merciless, and relished in carnage, but wasted no time after his return to groom himself back to perfection. The blood of the Hyruleans stained his hands, certainly, but never would it besmirch his armor. 

And here sat Yuga, tending to that very being of glory. The mere inches between Ganondorf’s back and his own bare torso were by far not enough to diminish the heat radiating off of the massive man. His skin felt warm, and they needn’t even touch. It mattered not; he preferred it like this. He preferred the opportunity to watch his handiwork, thick hair flowing through his fingers like liquid fire. Bit by bit, the braiding of his hair parted the curtain on the dark bronze skin of the Demon King’s back, and he had to stifle a gasp. So finely sculpted! Such beautiful musculature, packed with shining, nourished skin! Were he not warm, moving, and breathing right before him, he would have mistaken his back for a statue. Further down that back, he was elegantly furred by wispy red, the same shade of vermillion as his hair. 

How long he must have paused to gawk at him, he didn’t know. He similarly didn’t notice when one of his hands left its braiding duty and reached out to him with quivering fingers. Oh, how indeed, he longed to trace his fingers along the contours of his back! But the subject of his fancies turned his head ever so slightly, likely puzzled by the sudden freezing of his attendant. 

“Is there a problem?” he inquired, his tone impossible to discern beyond its strength.

Yuga chuckled a little nervously, quickly busying himself again with the central braid. “On the contrary, Milord,” he tittered, hoping his touch of playfulness would grant him mercy.

And grant him, it did, indeed. Ganondorf exhaled an amused hum, before looking out in front of him again. Shoulders braced against the edge of the bath, he sighed a satisfied breath, before sinking further down into the bath. Yuga could see the top of his head now, with the hints of his bushy eyebrows and his angular, aquiline nose peeking into view. It made him a little flustered. He’d spent so long committing that face to memory, that to be this close to it now made him childishly giddy. 

He quickly cast his excitement aside. His King was letting his guard down around him, trusting him not to disturb their peace. He ought not to ruin it with his eagerness to ogle. So comfortably, he lounged with him. Certainly, he couldn’t pose a threat to Ganondorf if he wanted to, and that knowledge was mutual. Still, to be allowed to groom him in this way, and to find the man’s eyes gently shut with his back turned to him… It was terribly familiar. Did he trust the other lieutenants like this? Or did perhaps, somewhere inside him, a chime of recognition ring out..?

He didn’t dare be so bold as to ask, though. For the time being, he was privileged enough to be able to touch him and weave his soft, wild locks into the most beautiful braids. with the right and central braids now finished, he moved to the last one on his left. “I’m almost finished,” he hummed, hoping to catch his attention.

Ganondorf breathed steadily, tilting his head obediently at his mechanisms. Long he dawdled, leaving Yuga in the agonizing, awaiting silence of dwelling in his thoughts. He wanted to confer with him.

The first steps to his wish being fulfilled were taken. A heat spread to the Demon King’s ears. “Something about you is familiar, Yuga.”

Yuga let out an inquisitive ‘oh’, prompting him to continue. Was this it? The moment he finally recognized him, and everything their bond entailed?

“This must not be the first time you’ve tended to me like this.”

Twisting the final strands into place, Yuga smiled, his chest puffing at the churning of his heart. “No, Milord, it certainly is not.”

His breath left him in a wistful sigh. He seized this moment, and all his self-control melted before him like snow in the early spring sun. “Is my touch familiar? I do hope I’ve left an impression. Though, for you, it must have been centuries, and many lives in-between. For me… It has been mere months.”

He took all three braids into his hands now, beholding them fondly. With the delicacy of handling embroidered silks, he felt himself getting a little lost in his admiration as he rolled the thick braids into a bun at the back of Ganondorf’s head. Though he’d brought them with the intent of using them in his own hair, he retrieved a handful of shining brass pins and stuck them into the heavy mass to hold it together. It couldn’t be anything less than perfection. 

“You look and act much different, but it changes nothing in the ways I care for you. Perhaps I can jog your memory…”

Fingers tickled past his hairline and ‘round his neck, delicately gliding past smooth tendon and muscle. The contact finally shook Ganondorf out of his statuesque poise, and he craned his head back. Eyes wide, brows raised incredulously, and ears and nose flushed dark, the Gerudo’s composure had been shattered. 

Yuga’s thumbs strayed, stroking through his King’s beard. The drops of water that caught there now rolled down his hands, following his trajectory down to rest his palms on his shoulders. "Do you remember our time together, my King? How we lingered conjoined, much like this?"

Ganondorf could only blink in response, his lips stiffening as he held back a swallow.

Never could Yuga think that he’d exert such control over him, to be the one capturing his fancy. He had to dig deeper, starting with tenderly squeezing the skin at the nape of his neck. “My voice, my hands, my eyes? How our bodies pressed together before we became one?”

That stare was intoxicating, addictive. It made the air around him thick enough to carve through. All timidness, all apprehension he once had, left him at once. Yuga spread his fingers, eager to touch as much of him as he could, as his hands slipped forward. Coarse, wet hair that sprawled over Ganondorf’s torso caught between his fingers and he sucked a gasp in with a shudder. The Gerudo did not break eye contact, but there was tension in him that only increased the further Yuga’s hands wandered. They crossed the threshold of his collarbone, until finally, he could lean over him, his palms rested on his chest. The muscles of his pectorals were firm, bulky, and softly wrapped around what may as well have been solid stone. No matter how his wet skin glistened in the candlelight, or how the red hair on his chest curled pleasingly around his fingers, or how charming piercings looked on him, nothing could rip his eyes away from the Demon King’s face. Nothing could match the red that crept up on his cheeks, how his fluster widened his eyes to show more pale white sclera than he’d ever seen on them. His blush darkened his skin, but showed most notably on his ears and the skin stretched taut over his curved nose. Yuga’s chest caved as his breath caught in his throat, and he couldn’t help himself but lean closer. Greed of the eyes overtook him. He wanted to see more of it, to watch that hue deepen the richness of his skin, to watch as his red lashes fluttered shut and —

Suddenly, a palm lay over one of his hands, its heat distracting him from his spiral of admiration. Ganondorf was scrambling to regain his composure. “Your hands are frigid. Join me in the water.”

“Milord, I-“

A soft cry escaped him as Ganondorf’s gargantuan hand wrapped around his arm and dragged him to the edge of the bath. Another hand hooked its way around his armpit, and with the ease as one would handle a burlap doll, he was seated next to him in the bath.

He sat there, somewhat flabbergasted by how he’d just been manhandled. Water lapped at his chin; the seating was more accommodating to the much taller Gerudo, and not built for petite wizards such as himself. Hands curled sheepishly in his lap, he rose somewhat to instead sit on his knees, hoping to raise himself at a bit more dignified height above the water.

Yuga cleared his throat, eyes darting at his reflection. Curses! His facial cream only made his fluster that much more shiny and obvious. "... Forgive me, I must have crossed a boundary."

Ganondorf cleaned his throat, seemingly pointedly leaving his arm to brush past his’ underwater. "Nonsense. If it is intimacy you desire, then I only ask you to engage it with hands that aren't so frightfully cold."

He paused, lingering on the implications of his words. Admittedly, he got a bit carried away, and to find his admiration not only appreciated, but reciprocated… Ganondorf may not have answered the questions that burned so brightly in his mind, but his actions spoke volumes. Where the man’s mind failed him, his body and soul filled in. Had Yuga been any other person, he did not doubt that he would have been brutally dismissed for his advances. The tether that connected them had gained another string, and he found himself playfully plucking at it. 

Still, he ought to exercise some care. The last thing he wanted was for this new connection to be forged with nerves, and he’d already pushed his buttons a bit too much.

“Of course, how inconsiderate of me,” he muttered, eyes continuously downcast. Uncertain of how to proceed, he momentarily excused himself. He arrived at these baths for a reason, after all, and so he stood up, a final bottle of soap in hand, and waded his way to the center of the bath.

Mid-thigh height to most of the bath’s attendees, the water level offered Yuga significantly more concealment. It rose to his upper abdomen, right at the tender skin below his sternum, and hid the rest of him in the green-tinted water. He was thankful for it, really. It kept the eyes from wandering.

He dipped his head down once, dipping his locks in the water. He ran his fingers through the well-oiled strands until they flared back out, floating gently on the surface like tendrils. A sigh escaped him as he rose, water rushing down from his hair and across his torso. Brushing the long, darkened mass away from his face, he got a bit of an inkling that he was being watched. 

Indeed, Ganondorf appeared to have been mulling over the events of just earlier. He needn’t even look to confirm it. He could hear it from the way he breathed, but most of all, he felt it in the tension that tended to swallow the room whole when the King was the slightest bit troubled. An amused smirk stretched across his lips, thankfully hidden behind the curtain of his hair. He resigned to simply waiting out the moment Ganondorf wished to confide in him.

That time came sooner than he could get the soap to fizz.

Ganondorf cut through the silence with such striking boldness, it caused Yuga to freeze up. “Were we wed?”

Oh, only the Demon King himself could stomach such a topic with such nonchalance! A spot of admiration overtook him again, as he found himself marveling at the simultaneous flaw and virtue of his practicality. 

“Wed? Ahah, I would argue we were something far more,” he teased, but not without finding himself once again flabbergasted. Even as he stood there, his kayfabe left far behind in the dressing room and his lithe form bared to him, Ganondorf seemingly found the idea of being his spouse perfectly feasible. He wasn’t sure what to think of it.

His counterpart, on the other hand, directed his confusion someplace else. “I ask you not to speak in riddles.”

“We… Became the same being, Milord. As physically as we did symbolically. We had the entirety of Lorule under our clawed thumb. Our thoughts, desires, sensations… All shared, to the point of it feeling strange to be but one man again.” 

Yuga stroked his fingers through his curls, massaging the scent of lotus and vanilla blossom into them with soapy bubbles. Head tipped back, he relished in its luxury, but above all, the joy of being admired. The fog of hot water obscured him, embraced him in its warmth, but not enough to break the line of sight between him and his Lord. He ought not to keep him waiting. Soap now settled, he dipped down to rinse himself off, casting the suds away.

Ganondorf crossed his arms, thoughtfully staring into the rippling of the water and the soapy clouds that drifted toward him. “I see.”

“Of course, such a strategy will not hold when I am needed elsewhere in the war. I’ve long given up on sharing that bond with you again, but,” he paused, hesitating for just a moment. Was he being too forward? Oh, out with it. He stood back up. “It brings me joy to see you again, and talk intimately.”

Ganondorf’s expression turned back to his usual scowl, though something contemplative, or possibly even nervous, tugged at his laugh lines. “… If you wish to rekindle this romance, you must allow me time to consider.”

Yuga gasped, whipping his head around quickly enough to send water flying off the ends of his curls in a spiral. “A romance? Oh, no! Nothing ever so drastic,” he assured, his hands clasped at his chest. “If that is what you worry about, you needn’t fret over it. I’ve no desire for such commitment.”

He looked at him a touch puzzled. To Yuga’s relief, the crease on his forehead softened some. The man shifted in his seat, sending ripples through the water. “Then what is it that you want?”

Yuga shivered as the gentle waves in the water lapped at the edge of his ribcage. What did he want? He looked at the man in front of him, as if he’d been doing anything but gaze at him ever since he first entered this room. Ganondorf was a stranger, yet he was not. Somewhere within him, the beast he’d known still lurked, but instead of a hulking boar, with tusks like scythes and skin like steel, there sat by all means a Human. One that had lived a life much like his own, a mortal being before his sealing, whose years of glory and turmoil were chronicled on his aging yet sculpted body. When he last saw him in that previous life, it had been through their combined eyes, and now, they were apart. Agonizingly so, almost, but not irreversibly. The water around him was a conduit, a tether for him to hold onto that bound him to his King. 

He turned to face him, carefully combing the last soap from his hair, before wading towards him. The closer he got to him, with his frail form, the more miniscule he felt before the towering Demon King. “… I wish to be close to you, enough to admire you, to understand you, as I once did.”

And yet, despite that immense size, and the power that surged through his veins, it was his humanity that brought them peerdom. Ganondorf gazed at him wordlessly, too prideful to avert his gaze but too flustered to sit unchallenged. “You are quite forward in your answers, Yuga,” he rumbled, scratching at the edge of his beard.

“When you ask me questions, King Dragmire, I feel compelled to answer them in truth,” he smiled, folding his arms. “Of course, if it displeases you, I could be more reserved.”

Ganondorf raised his hand in response. “There is no need. It is quite becoming on you,” he laughed in admittance. To Yuga’s joy, something playful crossed his expression. “I suppose I have simply become accustomed to court officials dancing around what they actually wish to convey.”

What Ganondorf didn’t know was that he, too, was one such competitively vague court advisor by trade. He simply could never lie to him if he tried. Bashfully, he brought a hand to his face, yet he felt not as small as he once did, standing so close before him. “Your praise humbles me.”

Ganondorf cocked his head with a wry smile and propped himself against the edge of the tub. “Somehow, I find that hard to believe.”

Oh, how that grin emboldened him. So quickly they understood each other again and dropped them back into familiar comfort. Had he truly known this iteration for mere months? Thinking about it, he’d moved far quicker with his last incarnation. Just the thought of it made him itch to glue himself to him again.

“… Milord, may I?” he asked, his hand gingerly reaching out to the Gerudo’s arm. 

Ganondorf looked somewhat skeptically at where he was pointing and furrowed his brows in thought. Still, he seemed to think it was harmless enough. “By all means.”

Yuga smiled in return, immediately wading his way over to take his seat next to him. Ganondorf looked on in perturbed fascination as frail arms hooked their way around his elbow. He was already being much too bold, but the Lorian found he didn’t quite care. His manicured fingers found their way up his arm either way and squeezed adoringly at the bicep. 

“Your past self never let me do this,” he laughed, playfully scooting in. “He would scold me.”

Ganondorf blinked down at him, before turning away with a subtle smirk, his ears tinging just the slightest red. “I wonder why.”

Yuga paid his teasing no mind. As fondly as studiously, his fingers traced along the grooves of his muscles, catching on every little detail to carefully rub the pad of his fingers on it. He could see it now — this arm, no, his entire physique, would come to haunt the pages of his sketchbook for weeks. But he had to do so accurately, he couldn’t settle for anything less than perfection for his Master. He would have to commit everything to memory, from his tattoos, to his scars, to his veins to his birthmarks, everything, everything —

A soft hoot rang from across the hall, snapping Yuga out of his trance. The two men turned simultaneously to the source of the sound. Stood frozen at the entrance of the room was Zant, wide-eyed and caught off guard. Upon being spotted, his lips unpursed themselves, and he turned right back around to slip away. 

“What’s gotten into you,” scolded a pompous voice from beyond the wall soon after, the owner of which would himself round the corner. Ghirahim gasped as soon as he saw the scene before him, but unlike his companion, he immediately bowed apologetically. “I do beg your pardon for intruding on your private affairs, My Master!” he stammered, surprisingly red-faced. It was quite a flattering color on him, but from the way he dressed, Yuga was certain he knew that.

The Blade, too, quickly made his leave, though not without bursting into a fit of hushed bickering and giggling with his bath-mate.

Lovely creatures.

Still taken aback by the shenanigans that unfurled before them, the pair remained silent for a moment. At least, until a scoffing laugh escaped past Ganondorf’s lips behind him.

“That… Is going to have consequences, I think,” Yuga murmured, covering his mouth with his hand in embarrassment.

“It will not, if they know what’s good for them,” Ganondorf growled, eyes still fixed on the entryway.

Silence fell on the pair again, though the awkwardness of having been discovered soon faded. Instead, it turned to fondness. He found himself struck by how quickly the two of them took comfort in each others’ company, and how naturally they slotted into one another. The warmth of Ganondorf’s shoulder practically melted him as he laid his cheek against him. He wasn’t certain if the other man was simply humoring him in his advances, or if he, too, sought intimacy in the approximation of a peer. 

Quickly, he decided he would rather chew up every last soap bottle in his satchel than ask him and find out. 

Another question ate at him, though, and he found this one was far more pressing to hunt for answers for. “Milord, if I may ask…”

“You may.”

He dawdled, picking at the skin at the edge of his nails. “Are these… Nightly baths, perhaps, a habit of yours?”

In an instant, he got Ganondorf to smile. His laugh shook his shoulders, lightly shaking Yuga along with him. “Bold thing. You wish to join me in the baths again?”

Yuga laughed with him heartily, but he still felt himself blush in embarrassment. “Oh! I thought to be a touch more subtle.”

Ganondorf’s nose crinkled with his teasing grin. “Your attempt was unsuccessful. Now answer,” he asserted.

Yuga paused, his fluster making him shrink just a bit. “If you wouldn’t mind, I would be delighted to spend time with you outside of the war room,” he smiled, hugging his arm just a little tighter to his bony chest.

Ganondorf smiled. “Very well, then,” he rumbled. His hand reached out to him, and a thick, calloused thumb stroked across his cheekbone. A wet streak from a stray strand of hair snaked past his skin, finally reaching the edge of his face, before his King tucked it ever so gently behind his ear. He couldn’t keep his eyes off that smile.

The man continued. “I will send for a summoning, next time I wish for your company. You’ve made me curious about you, Yuga. Consider it a compliment.”

Ganondorf rose, water cascading from his form like a waterfall. Yuga’s gaze stayed locked with his as he stood up, but he couldn’t help but steal glances at what was decidedly more at his eye level. His stomach, his thighs, equally riddled with hair and battle scars, and so lovely in their soft, rounded musculature. 

Well, he shouldn’t displease him with his ogling. He loomed forward a little, leaning into the touch of the hand that lingered on his face. So warm, yet so firm… That hand now retracted ever so slowly, though the ardency in the Lorian’s hooded eyes never left as he kept his sights hooked on those vibrant gold irises. 

Pleased with such devotion, such eagerness for his attention, Ganondorf smiled. “I am turning in for the night. Do not linger too long, Lord of Lorule. You are expected in my office at sunrise.”

Yuga could only manage a nod, his mouth feeling too dry and stuffy to manage any words. That touch had been the nail in the coffin, the scissors to the last drawstring of his composure. The Demon King was far too much of a treat to the senses, he thought to himself as he watched him leave. He drank in every little detail he could spy while he still could, leaning against the edge of the tub as if those few inches of closeness made any difference at all to his perception. When the Gerudo’s towering form finally rounded the corner and went out of sight, it felt like a spell had been lifted. 

Oh, certainly, the crushing desire to behold him had lifted, but the connection he’d now forged with this incarnation sparked something else. Now more than ever, he felt incomplete being just one man and longed for the company of someone else in his body and soul. 

He sank back into the water, bubbles leaving his lips in a sigh. Oh, Yuga. Once again, you’ve gotten yourself caught in something truly beautiful…