#cause please it´s so stede | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

run-me-through-but-not-like-that · 2 years ago

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Hope I’m not bothering you with all my requests but your writing is incredible! (*^^*)♡

Maybe some endgame SteddyHands x Reader where Ed and Stede are together and Izzy and Reader are together and they go on a double date (Stede’s idea) and all have a really good time. But afterwards whenever it’s not all four of them together it feels like someone’s missing. Shenanigans ensue. Ed and Stede probably decide to invite you and izzy on more double dates and Izzy is probably worrying that you are realizing you want better than him and Reader is just confused and concerned.

Maybe eventually Lucius tells them all that “if all of you would rather go on double dates and spend time with all four of you, why don’t you all just dare each other?” And the Ed, Stede, Izzy, and Y/N all realize “ヽ(°〇°)ﾉ how did we not think of that?”

Just All Date Each Other Already!

“Why did you agree to this?” Izzy grumbled as he ran his fingers through his hair, evenly spreading the pomade throughout it. He didn’t even know why he was stressing so much about this, it was ridiculous.

“Because they were doing that thing where they act like you have a choice but you actually don’t,” you reminded him, fixing the fastenings of your shirt.

“All the more reason to decline,” he continued to complain as he wiped the excess from his hands.

“They’re our captains and our friends, it’s a double date. It won’t kill us,” you rolled your eyes fondly. Really, you wouldn’t think spending a dinner with one of his oldest friends wouldn’t be such a cause of stress for him.

“Barely been on a normal date, nevermind a double date. What even the fuck is that?”

Finishing up with the cuffs of your shirt, you walked up to him. You gently took hold of his waist, turning him to face you before soothingly running your hands up and down his sides. “I have taken you on plenty of dates, thank you very much. A double date is just two couples spending some time together,” you told him, though you were sure he could figure that out. “It’ll be fine, love.”

You made a bit of a show of flattening his collar and centering the knot of his tie even if it was already pretty perfect. “There you go. You look perfect,” you kissed the tip of his nose playfully just to make his cheeks flush pink.

“Let’s get this over with.” That was as enthusiastic as Izzy was going to get about this, but you could work with that.

“Iz, sweetie, relax. It’s just dinner. You and Ed can hang out like old times and I’ll make sure Stede isn’t too overbearing,” you assured him, giving his shoulders a little squeeze.

“Alright,” Izzy sighed before looking you once over.

You had dressed up a little, throwing on some nicer looking clothes that you own. Nothing fancy, just not the sort of clothes you would scrub the deck wearing. Izzy didn’t have any ‘nice clothes’, but he forwent his vest in an attempt to feel more…approachable.

“We’ve got this,” you shot him a wink before taking his hand and leading him out of the little cabin you shared.

At least you didn’t run into any of the other crew members on your way to the captain’s cabin, that would only put Izzy more on edge. Once you reached the door, you gave Izzy’s hand a reassuring and grounding squeeze.“I love you,” Izzy said under his breath, staring at the door. The poor man sounded like he was being led to the gallows.

“We’re not dying, Iz,” you laughed. “But I love you too,” you gave him a quick kiss, just for a little added confidence, before knocking on the door.

Stede flung the door open and greeted you both with a bright smile. “Right on time!” he praised, pleased with the timeliness. “Welcome, come on in, make yourselves comfortable.”

When Stede stepped to the side, you and Izzy walked into the cabin. Edward beamed at you both from a cabinet where he was selecting a bottle of something suitably aged to have over dinner.

“I know you’re going to ask for rum, Iz, but please just give this wine a chance,” Edward spoke up before Izzy could even open his mouth.

“I’ve had wine before, Edward,” Izzy scoffed. Sure, probably not whatever wine Stede Bonnet collected, but he knew what wine tasted like.

“But not this wine,” Edward waved a bottle in front of him.

“I’m sure we’re going to love it,” you smiled, giving Izzy’s hand another small squeeze.

You herded Izzy over to the dining table. “Sit at any of the placements you like. Roach is particularly proud of this spread,” Stede told you both.

You and Izzy chose two seats beside each other. You didn’t know if it was customary for partners to sit beside or opposite each other, but you weren’t about to leave Izzy’s side when he was already anxious either way.

Edward strode over to the table and filled four glasses with red wine, before he took his seat opposite Izzy. Stede was quick to sit by Ed’s side, opposite you.

The four of you filled your plates with Roach’s food, adding certain elements whenever Stede recommended something.

“So, Izzy,” Stede spoke with an air of casualness, even if his attempt at casual conversation came off as a little awkward.

You couldn’t help but smile to yourself as you ate, suspenseful to see how Stede was going to communicate with the first mate. They had been getting along better, not at each other’s throats all the time, but still very rarely interacted one-on-one. At least you and Edward were there to mediate if anything went wrong.

“How is the crew?” Stede asked.

Good idea, you thought, talk about something neutral. When you glanced over at Edward to see his reaction, he appeared to be thinking the same thing.

“Not bad, not going to get themselves killed while we have dinner,” Izzy shrugged, speaking like he wasn’t sure how to converse with the other man.

“C’mon, Iz. Gotta be more to say than that,” Edward prompted, raising an eyebrow at him.

“The sword fighting lessons have been going really well, tell them about that, love,” you suggested, smiling in a way to let Izzy know that you had him, that you were here for him.

“The crew are doing…fine. I suppose they’re not as useless as they once were. Feeny and Pete are taking to swordsmanship fairly well. Frenchie isn’t so good with a sword but his footwork is impressive,” Izzy reported.

“And the Swede is getting really good with the knots,” you added, sounding proud that Izzy had taught them such things. Proud to have Izzy as your partner.

“He’s…made little songs to remind him how to tie different knots,” Izzy sighed, his nose scrunching up at the memory of sitting through the Swede explaining each of the songs.

“It’s sweet.” You couldn’t help but feel a little fond as whenever you passed the strange man singing his little songs and tying his knots.

“It’s ridiculous,” Izzy corrected.

“Well, it sounds rather effective,” Stede grinned, “I’m glad you’re all getting along.”

“Izzy is a good teacher when he wants to be,” Edward told Stede, shooting Izzy a playful wink.

“When people listen,” Izzy muttered before helping himself to another forkfull.

“And that is why Jack still doesn’t know which start is which,” Edward agreed, sounding fond and amused.

“The fucker can barely find Polaris. Would be able to if he listened to anything that wasn’t a crude joke,” Izzy smirked, amusement in his eyes, while Edward laughed.

Stede took a sip of his wine before nervously swirling the liquid around in the glass. “Well, I was wondering, Izzy…if you could give me some lessons with a sword. I’ve improved some but I’m not nearly as good as you or Edward,” Stede asked before quickly adding, “I promise to listen.”

Izzy eyed him for a moment, like he was trying to figure out if Stede was being serious about lessons, if he was worth the time. Izzy must have decided he was serious, because he agreed. “Suppose I could, yeah.”

“Told you he’d do it!” Edward placed a hand on Stede’s knee, giving it an excited shake. “And we’ll come and cheer you both on, right?” he looked across to you.

“Obviously,” you smiled back at him. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” you knocked your shoulder against Izzy’s, he rolled his eyes but still smiled to himself.

After the promise of lessons, the conversation lulled. Falling awkward for a moment, a nervous energy buzzing over the four of you.

“Oh!” Stede perked up, thinking up a topic for conversation. “You won’t believe the conversation we had with the tailor at the last port…”

Stede’s story about the tailor was…mundane at best, but you felt somewhat fond while listening to him and his passion about how the tailor dared to suggest the mix of certain fabrics. You even caught Izzy listening to the tale, the corner of his mouth quirking up every now and again, likely at the ridiculousness of the whole thing.

Occasionally Edward would jump in with something along the lines of “can you fucking believe that!” or “it was fucking diabolical!” which was all very entertaining and rather sweet.

You and Izzy remained in the captain’s cabin long after dinner was finished, which wasn’t the plan but wasn’t unpleasant by any means. Apparently the two of you decided that it would simply be rude to leave without finishing the bottle of wine…and the second one.

The wine helped the four of you loosen up, tension about the strange situation fading and any nerves long forgotten. Stories flew from each of you, the others listening intently. Jokes were shared and laughter echoed, the company feeling surprisingly easy.

At the end of the evening, you and Izzy had your arms linked together as you headed for the door.

“This was a wonderful evening!” Stede exclaimed, his voice loud with drink but endearing nonetheless, as he walked you both to the door. “We’ll have to do it again.”

‘Course we will, love,” Edward agreed warmly, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.

“And we shall see you both tomorrow,” Stede moved with far too much familiarity but you found that you didn’t really mind when he stepped forward and took you by the arms.

You spluttered a little when he kissed both of your cheeks, still smiling wide as he pulled away, but laughed it off. Izzy’s face was bright red as he received his cheek kisses, and you had to hold back a startled giggle.

“Alright, mate, come on,” Edward laughed, pulling Stede away.

“Goodnight, darlings!” Stede waved but was already walking over to the dining table. “Edward, come help me clean up!”

“He doesn’t drink a lot and wine is particularly…effective on him,” Edward explained, nothing but love and adoration in his eyes.

“It’s fine,” you assured him as you lent into Izzy’s side, feeling him tighten his hold on your arm.

“Edward!” Stede called from the table, making you laugh.

“Night, guys,” Edward grinned, glancing over his shoulder to check on Stede, who was stacking plates.

“Night, Ed,” you smiled and Izzy gave him a nod before the two of you left.

You and Izzy returned arm in arm to your shared cabin.

“Tonight was actually kinda fun,” you reflected as you closed the door behind you.

“Yeah…it actually was,” Izzy agreed, clearly surprised that he shared your sentiment.

But Izzy didn’t have much time to think about that because you were alright in front of him, already working him out of his shirt as you brought him into a sweet kiss.

Back in the captain’s cabin, the two men had tidied the table somewhat before slipping into their comfy bed.

“Tonight was lovely, Ed,” Steded murmured into Edward’s neck, happily curled up around him.

“It was fun. I think even Izzy enjoyed himself,” Edward mused fondly, tracing little shapes against’s Stede’s arm. It really had been too long since he and Izzy spent some time together and it was nice to see Izzy happy with somebody who treated him well, you were clearly very good for his friend.

“We really should do it again.”

“I’d like that,” Edward smiled, pressing a kiss to the top of Stede’s head.

Apparently that double dinner date had awoken something between the four of you. Relationships between Izzy and the crew had been improving for a while now and, while he didn’t seek out Stede’s company, he didn’t complain so much about the co-captain’s presence. The new development was that the four of you were putting much more effort into spending time together than you usually would.

Stede had stayed committed to his lessons with Izzy, never missing a lesson and always putting his full effort into it. He really was improving as well. His dedication and improvements were doing the job of gaining Izzy’s respect, and perhaps even some fondness. As the two men sparred back and forth, you and Edward would cheer them on from the sidelines and throw in advice for Stede. Edward would throw an arm around your shoulders when he got over excited, shaking you as he cheered on one of the men.

Edward had been randomly finding you when you were up on the deck, teaching you little tips and tricks about how to predict the weather. You were learning how to read the clouds and pay more attention to the temperature changes, but you knew you would never develop the sixth sense that Edward seemed to possess. Still, you enjoyed those little moments together.

Edward and Izzy would spend some evenings sitting up in the crows nest, just like they used to when they were deckhands on the same ship. Talking in a way they hadn’t in years.

After sharing your routine morning coffee with Izzy, when Izzy had left to round up the rest of the crew, Stede would come and speak with you. Never about anything important, just like he wanted to spend some time in your company, and you didn’t mind in the slightest.

Spending time together were highlights of your days but nothing quite compared to when all four of you found yourselves together. When the four of you got together for something it just felt like something was clicking into place.

The four of you were getting along better than ever, finding yourself seeking each other out just for the sake of it. You enjoyed each other’s company, found it easy to be around each other, enjoying learning more about each other, and growing fonder of each other as the days passed.

However, this new closeness had caused a few…crises.

Stede loves Edward, he had never known love like this, he didn’t even think it existed. Only weeks ago Stede would have easily and proudly exclaimed that Edward was his entire world. And yet, he found himself longing after the company of two others. He loved Edward dearly, every part of him, Edward was more than he could ever ask for. There was absolutely nothing wrong with the time he and Edward spent together but he found that he enjoyed that time as much as he enjoyed his time with you or Izzy, and when he considered it to be the best was when all four of you were together. Everything just felt so…right. Was he truly so greedy and so selfish that he needed to have you and Izzy as well? Oh god, what would Edward think if he knew?

Edward had been beating himself up as well, finding himself curled up in an empty bathtub more often than usual. He loved Stede, had from the very start and never questioned it since. But he loved Izzy too. He and Izzy had such a history and over time the connection they shared had become tangled and twisted into something unrecognisable. But he did love Izzy, had for a long time, just assumed it was a different kind of love to what he shared with Stede. Plus, he was with Stede and Izzy was with you. The two of them were happy and things were finally going well for them both, so why did something feel wrong? Then there was you, he could so easily see what drew Izzy towards you. Your kindness and sincerity, your patience and open adoration for the people you love and care about. Edward had always liked you but spending more time with you had been eye opening. He was Blackbeard, he should be able to have everything he wanted and more, but he couldn’t stand the thought of hurting Stede, of hurting any of you.

Despite the worries of the captains, they didn’t talk about it, but they did decide to invite you and Izzy on more double dates. Dinner and drinks in their cabin, stargazing on the quarterdeck, nature walks when the ship was anchored near land.

For the most recent, totally normal, just between friends, double date, the four of you were in the captain’s cabin again. Stede really loved going ashore and doing something exciting with the three of you but the privacy of the cabin was second best.

The four of you were sitting around the lit fire, the cabin warm and cosy. Edward was lounging on the couch, stretching his bad leg out over Stede’s lap. Izzy was sitting in one of the arm chairs, surprisingly relaxed, while you had made yourself comfortable on the floor between his legs. Sitting on a pillow with your head resting against the inside of his knee.

You laughed at one of Edward’s stories, turning your face into Izzy’s knee to muffle the sound.

“Oh! Before I forget, I picked something up for you when we were last at port,” Stede announced excitedly, placing his drink down.

“Me?” you asked, eyes widening as you lifted your head from Izzy’s knee.

“Yes, it’s nothing too special. I just saw it and it looked to be your size and I just thought about how well it would suit you!” Edward smiled as he moved his leg, letting Stede stand from the couch. “I’ll go fetch it!” and with that, Stede disappeared into his secret wardrobe.

You looked to Edward for some sort of explanation as Izzy sat up straighter behind you. “Don’t worry, it wasn’t too expensive,” Edward assured you, seeing the slight panic on both of your faces. “I agree with him though, think it will look fantastic on you.”

You couldn’t help but blush a little at the way Edward smiled at you. Admittedly, you could see why people gravitated towards him.

Behind you, Izzy frowned to himself. Stede was getting you gifts and Edward was complimenting you…something about this felt…wrong to him.

Stede soon returned with a silky looking white shirt on a hanger, holding it up proudly. “It’s alright if you don’t like it,” Stede quickly backtracked when you just stared at him, looking a little embarrassed.

You stood, Izzy offering you a hand, before approaching Stede. He kept hold of the hanger while you rubbed the material between your fingers. If you accepted the gift, it would definitely be the softest thing you owned.

You just didn’t understand why Stede would buy anything for you. “It’s beautiful, but you really didn’t need to-”

“I know that,” Stede tutted, “I just wanted too.”

“You should try it on,” Edward suggested and Stede nodded in agreement, while Izzy shifted in his seat.

“Alright,” you nodded and took the shirt . Stede gestured for you to go into the wardrobe for some privacy.

You disappeared into the closet, taking a quick look at Stede’s variety of clothes and the garments Edward had collected since being with Stede.

Izzy watched you slip out of the room, a little frown still on his face. “What do you think, Iz?” Edward asked, getting his attention.

“It’s nice,” Izzy shrugged. It was a nice shirt…

“This is all pretty nice, isn’t it? The four of us hanging out.” It sounded like Edward was trying to get at something, but Izzy wasn’t quite sure what. Izzy glanced at Stede for some sort of insight, but he just looked like he was waiting for some sort of approval.

“Yeah…suppose it is,” Izzy agreed.

“We picked something up for you, as well,” Edward grinned, stretching out his bad leg before standing from the couch. Izzy watched, silent and confused, as Edward wandered over to the desk, pulling something out of a drawer. “I know you take care of your stuff so your knife is in perfect condition but it’s old and you deserve something new,” Edward brought the new dagger over to where Izzy was sitting.

“I had my eye on something else but Ed said it was more decorative than practical and I know you love practicality,” Stede confessed.

“What do you think, Iz?” Edward asked as he handed over the blade.

Izzy examined the blade, turning it around and testing the weight in his hand. It was a fine blade, thin and sharp. Deadly. The handle fit in his hand like it was made for him. It must have cost a pretty penny.

“It’s…it’s good. Uh…thank you,” Izzy could feel how warm his face had turned as he looked up to Edward.

“You’re welcome, mate,” Edward grinned, pleased with himself.

Thankfully, the attention was taken off of Izzy when you walked back into the room. You were wearing your new shirt, tucked into the waistband of your pants. They had been right, it was perfect on you. It billowed and clung to all the right places, the collar fastened with laces, letting you choose how tight or loose you wanted to tie it. Right now you had it tied loosely, casually.

“So, what do you think?” you asked, uncomfortable with the silence you were met with.

“Beautiful!” Stede complimented brightly, instantly blushing at his own praise. You blushed as well at the earnesty.

“It suits you,” Izzy really meant it but he still felt like he was beat to the chance to make you blush and smile like that.

“Thanks, love,” you still smiled brighter at his compliment and that helped put him at ease a little.

You returned to your sea between Izzy’s legs, flashing him another smile before making yourself comfortable. The captains poured more drinks and returned to their seats on the couch. Everything went back to normal but Izzy found himself unable to listen to the rest of the conversation.

Izzy had given you things before, but they were practical items. A new knife since yours had been a rusty old thing, a new pair of boots when yours got wrecked. He never got you something so fine just for the sake of it.

What if that was what you wanted? What if you wanted what the captains could offer, what if you thought they were better for you than him?

Things had definitely been a little…weird. The captains have been particularly friendly lately. Of course, you didn’t mind, you loved spending time with them and the more time you spent together the more you enjoyed it. You just weren’t sure what brought on the change.

Izzy seemed to have been enjoying your little get togethers as well, until recently. He was worrying about something but you couldn’t tell what it was and he wouldn’t tell you. You knew he would when he was ready, so you would just offer him support in the meantime.

You cared for Edward and Stede deeply, more than you originally thought you did, but your priority right now was making sure Izzy was alright.

Things had come to their climax, the tension no longer letting you ignore it. Izzy was avoiding Edward and Stede completely and being distant with you, you just refused to let him push you away completely. Edward was keeping his distance from you and Izzy, sticking extra close to Stede and it was like Stede was going out of his way to ensure nothing he did could be interpreted as anything but platonic.

It was all very strange and you hated it. You hated that something was on Izzy’s mind and he felt like he couldn’t talk to you about it, you hated that two of your closest friends were acting so distant. You wanted to know what was bothering Izzy but he refused to talk about it, you couldn’t ask Edward if he knew anything because he would practically run away from you whenever you tried.

Something was wrong with each of the men you cared about but you just couldn’t figure it out at all. You wanted to make things right, you just didn’t know how.

By midday you felt like banging your head against the mast until something broke. Izzy was being all sulky, Edward weirdly flighty, and Stede uncharacteristically untalkative.

“Why do you look so sad?” Lucius asked, coming up to your side.

“Do you ever feel like something is going on with the people around you but you don’t know what and nobody will tell you what it is?” you asked, folding your arms on the ship’s railing.

“Sometimes, and then we talk about it and solve the problem,” Lucius nodded, obviously with some judgement in his voice.

“Genius,” you muttered. You knew he was right, the four of you should talk about it, but that would be so much easier to do if they would actually talk to you about it!

“You’re talking about Izzy and the captain’s right?” Lucius asked knowingly.

“Yep. You noticed how weird they’ve all been acting too?” you knew you couldn’t be the only one who thought something was wrong, you weren’t going crazy.

“Yes, I’ve noticed you idiots all being idiots,” Lucius rolled his eyes with a certain fondness.

You groaned, dropping your forehead down to your folded arms. “Rude.”

“If it makes you feel better, you’re not the biggest idiot out of all of them,” he reassured you, patting your back.

“Thanks, Luce,” you murmured into your arms. “I don’t know what happened. The four of us were getting along so well. It was great, y’know? But now it’s like nobody can stand to talk to each other for too long. I’ve asked Izzy about what’s going on but he always brushes it off like it’s nothing, when something is clearly wrong,” you lifted your head just enough to make sure Lucius could hear you clearly.

“I think I know what’s going on here,” Lucius sighed, sounding exasperated with you all.

“What?” you pushed yourself up from the railing and turned to him properly. You just wanted to fix things, and if Lucius had some insight you were willing to hear him out.

“I’m going to help you, mostly because the four of you sulking about it is really killing the mood.” You just rolled your eyes at him, knowing he cared really. If he didn’t, he wouldn’t have even asked what was wrong. “But you’ll owe me big time for this, all of you will,” he warned.

“Yeah, whatever, just please help me out, Lucius,” you didn’t think Lucius would ask much from you for his help. Probably just ask you to cover some chores for him.

“Grab your angry little man and meet me in the captain’s cabin,” he ordered, clearly already having some sort of plan ready.

“When?” you asked, unsure whether prep time would be helpful for Izzy or if it would only give him time to grow more anxious about the whole thing.

“Now. I’ll round up the captains.”

“...you really think this will work?”

“I really do,” Lucius sounded more like he was talking to himself than to you, but you decided to just go along with it.

You thanked him quickly before running off. You had no idea what he was planning but he had a plan and you didn’t, so you might as well give it a shot.

Izzy was definitely reluctant when you told him to follow you to the captain’s cabin, that you wanted to finally talk about whatever has been going on recently. He was even more reluctant when you mentioned that Lucius would also be there, but you didn’t want to surprise him with that. Thankfully, Izzy trusted you enough to know that you wouldn’t allow anything to harm him or put him in an overly uncomfortable situation. So, he let you lead him by the hand to their cabin.

You knocked on the door and Lucius opened it. “Sit down,” he ordered immediately, stepping aside to let you both in.

You just nodded and entered the room, seeing that Edward and Stede were already sitting on the couch, looking a little like scolded children. You and Izzy moved towards the armchairs but were quickly stopped.

“Nope. On the couch,” Lucius corrected.

“Bit of a tight fit, Luce,” you pointed out, but he probably already knew that.

“Don’t care. Sit,” Lucius cocked an eyebrow, arms folded over his chest sternly.

You shared a look with Izzy before joining the captains on the couch. Edward and Izzy were on the outsides, pressed against the arms of the couch, while you and Stede were squeezed between them.

“Lucius, what is this?” Stede questioned, sounding just as confused as Edward looked.

“Couples therapy,” Lucius huffed, as if it were obvious. You all just frowned at him. It was not obvious. “The four of you couldn’t be more obvious. You’re all in love with each other,” Lucius never had been a fan of unneeded subtly when it came to this kind of thing, he liked a straight forward response. Even still, that was blunt for him.

Lucius thought it would be best to be blunt and smooth things over afterwards than try to get you four idiots to figure it out by yourselves. He didn’t have all day.

“Lucius!” Stede eyes widened at the scribe, as if scandalised.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about, boy,” Edward scoffed but pointedly wouldn’t look at him.

“Seriously, this is your idea of helping?” you glared at him. Sure, you had accepted his help, but this wasn’t what you had imagined.

Izzy was surprisingly quiet beside you, just staring down at his lap. You didn’t think that was a good sign.

“Shut up. The four of you, just listen,” Lucius tutted. “You’ve all been spending a lot of time together, right?” he asked. Figuring that you still weren’t allowed to talk, the four of you nodded. “And you enjoy spending time together?” You all nodded again. “And most of all you enjoy spending time as all four of you?” More nods, although they were more hesitant this time.

“Then maybe all four of you should just…be together,” Lucius suggested as if it was the most obvious solution in the world.

“Lucius-” you began to interrupt, this was a pretty heavy topic to just drop on everyone.

“Nope, still talking,” Lucius thoroughly chastised you. “Relationships don’t just have to be two people, and that’s perfectly okay,” he reminded the four of you.

When he didn’t speak for a moment, Stede figured he was allowed to talk again. “Lucius, I appreciate this and you know we all have nothing but respect for you and your relationships but…I don’t think that would be something I’m comfortable with.”

Lucius considered him without judgement before nodding. “You wouldn’t be comfortable with Ed just sleeping with anyone, right?” he asked, still no judgement.

“Of course not!”

“I wouldn’t fucking do that!” Edward defended himself, clearly offended by the mere suggestion.

“It wasn’t an accusation,” Lucius reassured him. “So, you aren’t interested in an open relationship like Pete and I have. You need security. That’s fine, that’s not the only option.”

This was his nightmare, Izzy realised as the conversation sounded so far away. Lucius was suggesting that you be with somebody else (even if it was in addition to him). You would see that being with somebody else is better and would leave him behind.

As if sensing his spiralling, you gently took his hand in yours, just holding it as Lucius continued. It helped bring Izzy back into the cabin, into his body.

“The four of you could have a closed relationship. Just the four of you, all of you in a relationship with each other. Exclusivity between the four of you,” Lucius explained, “just like what you're already doing but with less pining.”

Edward hummed to himself, a little ‘huh’ sound. He couldn’t believe he hadn’t already thought of this, but even if he had, would he have suggested it to Stede? He looked at Stede to see how he was reacting to the idea. Much to his delight, Stede looked interested, hopeful even.

Stede looked at Edward, perhaps to judge his reaction as well, and the two of them shared a silent communication. This was something they both wanted and they knew just by looking at each other. It would be new, especially for Stede, but it could be such a good thing.

Clearly making his decision, Edward broke out into a bright smile.

“Well, uh, thank you for your…input, Lucius. I think the four of us need to talk about this…alone,” Stede gave him a tight smile, wringing his hands in his lap.

“Hint taken,” Lucius nodded. “Come find me if you need any help…try to avoid it if necessary,” he escaped from the room promptly, probably to tell Pete everything, closing the door behind him.

“Well, this solves everything!” Edward stood up, clapping his hands together, staring brightly at the three of you. He looked almost proud of himself, as if it had been his idea. “Can’t believe I didn’t think of it first,” he admitted.

Izzy was looking at him with wide eyes, his mouth hanging open, unable to do anything more.

“Darling, let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Stede stood and pulled Edward to the side, hoping to calm him down a little before he overwhelmed you or Izzy.

As soon as you were offered any sense of privacy, you turned to Izzy. “Are you alright?” Izzy could quite easily become overwhelmed, especially when it came to anything involving feelings, and your first instinct was to check in on him.

Izzy convinced himself to meet your gaze, you deserved that at least. “Do you want to be with them?” he asked.

“I want to be with you,” you promised him without hesitation, already knowing where his mind was probably going. “I…I do like Ed and Stede, and I know you do too. I’m willing to give this a try if that’s something you want, but I promise you, Iz, I am not leaving you for them. I love you.” You knew that honesty was the only way to talk about this properly, but you wanted to make sure he didn’t get the wrong idea. You were with him, no matter what he wanted.

“But…what if you end up liking them more?” Izzy’s question just broke your heart, he sounded so small, but at the same time you were so proud of him for allowing himself to be so vulnerable.

“That’s never going to happen, it’s not possible. Even if I love them, I will always love you just as much, that will never change,” you kept one hand around his, bringing your other hand up to his cheek, hoping to ease the tension between his brows. “I know you love Ed, have for a long time, and I know you’ve been growing fond of Stede. That doesn’t mean you love me any less does it?” you asked and Izzy frantically shook his head. “I’m here no matter what you decide, I love you.”

Izzy would never understand how you were so good at this, at handling him and reassuring him. “I love you too,” even after all this time, he always said those words with the same devotion as he did the first time.

You smiled and lent in to give him a chaste kiss, just to make sure he got the point.

To the side of you both, somebody cleared their throat. You pulled away from Izzy, dropping your hand from his cheek, as you both turned to look at the captains. They were watching you both fondly.

“I, uh…that was a lot. Is everyone…are you alright to speak about this?” Stede asked. He really did feel like he was getting good at the whole ‘communicating thing’.

You looked back at Izzy, letting him decide whether he wanted to talk now or if he needed some time. He nodded and you looked at the captains again. “Yeah, we want to talk about it.”

Izzy’s hand never once left yours, even when Edward took hold of his other hand, even when Stede pressed kisses to each of your knuckles.

The four of you were up until the early hours of the morning, fueled by coffee and unspoken feelings, talking about feelings new and old. Considering how a relationship between the four of you might look, how the four of you might navigate it.

Stede had suggested a ‘proper courting period’, and then gone on to explain what that might consist of.

Things would stay mostly the same but the four of you would be courting each other, knowing that the intentions are romantic in nature. You would take things slow, make sure everyone was comfortable and let things progress naturally. You wouldn’t rush or force anything. If it felt right then you knew you were doing the right thing, if it felt wrong the four of you could go back to normal, even if it was a little disappointing.

The next morning you woke up, still in the captain’s cabin with your beloved partner and two possible partners. Propped up against Izzy’s chest with Edward’s head in your lap and Stede’s head on your shoulder, drooling slightly.

It was only the first day of whatever this was but you felt good about it, felt good about the way the four of you fit together even in your sleep. You didn’t want to be the one to disturb the three men, so you just cuddled back into Izzy and buried your hand in Edward’s hair.

#izzy hands x reader #stede bonnet x reader #edward teach x reader #steddyhands #steddy hands #steddyhands x reader #ofmd x reader

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shipposttt · 1 year ago

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Ship of the Day: BlackBonnet

Names: Edward Teach and Stede Bonnet

Ship Name(s): BlackBonnet

Original Content: Our Flag Means Death

THIS COVERS SEASON 1 ONLY SO PLEASE (if you comment) DO NOT COMMENT SPOILERS PLEASE! THANK YOU!

Ship Info:

Now it's time for our most important topic (in my opinion). Gay pirates.

Our Flag Means Death first graced our TV screens in 2022 with a second season following shortly after in 2023 (this blog will only cover the 1st season so please don't spoil anything!). This series is rich with people who we would recognise in the time when pirates roamed the earth such as Israel "Izzy" Hands, Calico Jack, Jim (who is based on multiple real-life pirates) and so on. The actual title of the show could also be a reference to this time due to the dangers and risks associated with piracy, where engaging in pirate activities often led to a perilous fate depending on who you ran (or sailed) into. But the two main pirates of the show are the real reason I'm writing our blog, so let's get on with it!

'Gentleman Pirate', Stede Bonnet, is an inexperienced pirate who used to be an Englishman during the 18th century. He lacked experience yet somehow managed to find himself as the Captain of his own ship known as 'The Revenger'. 'Blackbeard', Edward Teach, is a notorious pirate who also sailed the seas during the 18th century. He was known for his fearsome appearance, long black beard, having multiple weapons strapped to his body as well as being in command of a fleet of ships. The odds of these two meetings seem pretty slim right? WRONG! The two do meet. And have a hell of an adventure that sends them both (and the audience) on an emotional rollercoaster.

Although I would love to dissect every single scene that could have led audiences shipping these two, I have limited it to several to save time for myself and for those of you who are reading.

The first scene I would like to introduce comes from the first season where Edward (Blackbeard) had been staying on the Revenge, teaching Stede how to become a more fearsome pirate while in return Stede taught him about higher society. Already the two represent being people the other person dreamt of being, already creating a connection of respect in some cases. After being insulted by the captain of a ship they had just raided, we are given a glimpse into Edward's backstory after he pulls out some red handkerchief his mother had given him. Attached to this handkerchief is a memory that has followed Edward for years of his mother telling him when he was a child that 'they were not the kinds of people that got to have fine things'. Additionally, on the captured ship an invitation to a high-society party is found, and we see Edward desperately wanting to attend. While at this party he takes on the identity of 'Jeff the Accountant' and entertains the aristocracy. But things turn sour when he fails to remember the correct utensils to use at dinner, causing the aristocracy to start laughing at him and no longer with him. Stede handles the situation by starting a brawl amongst the aristocrats, leading to the boat catching on fire. Now we get to the main bit of this section, as Edward removes the red handkerchief from his shirt and reminisces about what his mother had said to him we see Stede come up to him. He takes the red handkerchief, folds it into a rose and places it into Edward's breast pocket, telling him that 'he wore fine things well', leading to a moment of silence before the two walked away from each other (not without a glimpse back though). To some of the fanbase, the red handkerchief could be a personification of Edward's heart. He views it as a 'tatty old thing' that he should hide since he doesn't think it suits him to have a heart. He might think it's weak to have one since it could lead to him being hurt in a place he cannot heal. We first see him hiding the fabric, embarrassed to show Stede. This could also be because he views Stede as the 'fine thing' that he cannot have. That his heart will not suit Stede due to their different upbringings. But as the two grew closer that evening he shows his heart to Stede, who folds it into a beautiful rose showing him how beautiful his heart could be. This could also mean that Stede is the amplifier that Edward needs in order to see himself for who he truly is and to see how he can wear his heart well. This showed progress of their relationship for many fans due to how he was showing a part of him (that he normally kept hidden) to Stede. A desire he always wanted but did not think he deserved. And how Stede reassured him he did deserve it. This is only one of the scenes that proves how important the two are to not only each other for things such as teaching each other how to be a better pirate or teaching the other about the finer things in life, but also to each other's growth as individuals.

We again see their relationship change when Edward tries to kill Stede Bonnet (it sounds worse than it is, trust me). As we learn how the only time Edward felt fear was when his father was killed by the 'Kraken' and how he was there to witness it, he decided it was time to teach Stede about the 'art of fuckery' and how it could be used as a great way to install fear in their enemies. However, some of Edwards crew (Izzy,Ivan and Fang) had had enough of Edward acting like Stede's 'pet' (someone that Blackbeard would never let on his ship) and said it was time for Bonnet to die. Edward agreed. As he went on to do the deed ,unaware that Stede was planning to do an 'art of fuckery', the special effects resembling a Kraken attack cause Edward to go into a panic and hide in Stede's bathroom. Alarmed at this reaction, Stede follows and Edward reveals that he was the 'Kraken' who killed his abusive father. With this, he also tells Stede that he was planning to kill him but couldn't as he broke down in tears saying how he 'wasn't a good person' and that this was why he 'didn't have any friends'. Stede rebukes this claim and says how he views him as a friend and how he will forget about the planned killing, comforting Edward. This showed how much comfort Stede provides Edward. When Edward felt unsafe or needed somewhere he felt safe he went to STEDE'S bathroom. This showed that when he feels vulnerable, when all of the emotions he's kept hidden for so long come to surface his one confidant is Stede. And again, he shares something he has never shared with anyone else showing how much he trusts him. The way he can't kill Stede or keep his emotions in check around him could also highlight the fact that he cannot bring himself to be Blackbeard around Stede. He can only be Ed. The better self that Stede had helped him find. And how Stede straight away went after Edward, comforted him even when he revealed he was going to kill him and reminded him of his frienship showed that he could see the real Edward. And that was the version he wanted to see. Not the Blackbeard the others demanded came back to surface. The one that suited fine things. Edward. And with this interaction how could we not want a happy ending for these two?

Sadly, we do not get to see a happy end as of season one.

As soon as Edward learns that Calico Jack (his former crewmate) was sent by Izzy to make sure that he was away from the Revenge before the English arrived and captured Stede and his crew, he abandons the dinghy to return to the revenge. Once he arrives him, Stede and the rest of the crew are captured. But, as their hands are tied and they're thrown onto the floor, we see a moment between the two that had cemented for many fans that they did indeed have feelings for each other. They look at each other, content that they were together again. And as the camera slowly zooms out, we see Edwards boot reach for Stede's ankle, and in response Stede rubs his ankle against Edwards boot. Despite the chaos happening outside, their only concern is comforting the other. And if they have the means to do it, they will not hesitate. As long as they each have that little bit of comfort the world could burn and they would still be okay. Since they have the other as company. Nothing would hurt them more than being separated. If they could have even the tiniest bit of contact, nothing be bad. Even when death faces them and comes for their 'flags', they are just happy they would go through it together. There's no 'Mine' in 'Our Flag Means Death' after all.

The next episode we see as they both try and defend each other over Stede's crime (killing Nigel Badminton) showing how they wanted to make sure the other one was safe, even if it meant death for themselves. They just wanted the other one to be safe. In the end they both get put on trial. It was decided that Edward would go with Izzy Hands while Stede would be sentenced to death by firing squad. Not wanting Stede to go to a place he wouldn't be able to follow him to, Edward declared Act of Grace to save 'The Gentleman Pirates' life. This was agreed to and Stede would be pardoned if the both of them signed a document which would mean they would need to give up their life of piracy and serve the king. They both signed. As they spend some time in the Royal Privateering Academy, Stede questions how Edward was able to handle the situation so well to which Edward says he wanted to do 'what makes Ed happy'. He confessed that it was Stede that made 'Ed' happy. To make a sweet moment so much sweeter, he ends the confession with a kiss. As Stede accepts Edwards feelings they both decide to run away together. However, Stede never turned up. Just before the two planned to meet, he was awoken up at gunpoint by Chauncey Badminton who told him that he 'defiles beautiful things'. He reminded him of his crime of killing Nigel, of his family and how he had brought 'histories greatest pirate to ruin'. Stede finds himself agreeing to this and makes the decision to go to back to his former home. Edward is left heartbroken as he finds his way back to the Revenge, alone. He reverts to his old ways as 'Blackbeard', throwing away his old red handkerchief. Throwing away his heart and everything that reminded him of Stede. While Blackbeard began getting rid of his old life as 'Edward', Stede realsied how much he really loved Edward. As his wife (Mary Bonnet) revealed what it was like to be in love with Doug, he started thinking about his time with Edward and how much it meant to him. This was love. The two then used the 'art of fuckery' to fake Stede's death (which worked), but it was too late. Edward and the Ship were gone from the location where it had been last. In this scene we might as well have seen the death of 'Ed' as without Stede, he was just Blackbeard. Afterall, the pair of them are only their best selves when they are together.

Type of ship: Queer Canon

The 'Our Flags Mean Death' franchise is one of the best series I have personally watched regarding representation and in the way it rejects toxic masculinity. The LGBTQ+ community have suffered at the hands of what is known as 'queer baiting' for so long. This is when through advertisements and interviews with casts ect the TV producers sort of lure the community into watching and promoting their show with a false promise that their will be non-heteronormative couples involved in their franchise. But they don't follow through with this and get our hopes up making us feel lead on (see shark emoji post on BeChloe). This is why Our Flags Means Death was such a breath of fresh air. Actually FOLLOWING THROUGH with what was promised just raised our hopes a little more and allowed more people (who do not get near enough representation through TV shows and movies ect) to feel a bit more seen and also helped people discover who they are when they see people going through the same issues they're going through.

Stede and Ed's relationship was a pleasure to watch. To see two men have such comfort in each other and to see characters talking about their feelings and having breakdowns without feeling any shame or embarrassment was needed in order to challenge the toxic masculinity we see too much in this world and in the media. And to have such positive representations of Queer relationships being healthy was also amazing.

The journey we followed with Stede and Ed (although it ended on a cliffhanger) showed us what love was all about. Trust. Being your true self with each other. Sacrifice. Loving each other when we're at our worst. Loving the parts of the other that they couldn't love themselves. And so much more. And to find out what we hoped would happen, did happen is such a win for the LGBTQ+ community. We can only hope that shows will take a few lessons from this show and that we don't need to fear queer baiting happening as frequently as it does.

Even the show director (David Jenkins) admitted 'that Stede and Blackbeard’s romance was always part of his initial pitch for the series — and one of the things he and the writers found most creatively fulfilling". The opposites attract troupe which lead to the both of them just finding out what each of them actually wanted, fixed with the slow burn and not just the both of them automatically liking each other and showing the development of their relationship felt like a reward and made it feel natural and not forced.

It's safe to say I cannot wait to watch season 2. The only complaint I have for this show is how lonely it makes me feel. We all deserve a relationship like Stede and Ed.

Admin, 🦒

#gay ships #lgbtq community #shipping #ships #fandom #our flag means death #our flag means gay #stede bonnet #ed x stede #ofmd stede #ed teach #the gentleman pirate #edward teac

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rachelillustrates · 1 year ago

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OKAY thoughts on the season 2 promo pictures

(other than j e s u s c h r i s t we'regonnadie)

the setting of the picture of Stede making a yuck face is the same as the setting in the picture of Anne (OHMYGODANNE!!!!!), so with the lighting being similar, too, I bet that's the same scene.

(Anne please still have an Irish accent. Please. I know we don't care too much about accents on this show but pleeeeeeeeease.)

I also bet, since his neck is naked there, that that's happening early - and before he finds the crew, since in the picture of him with Black Pete, Roach, etc. under the bridge, he has some very interesting new neckwear.

(it's the silk.)

(it's OBVIOUSLY the silk.)

(they have an opportunity to pull a classic fanficcy moment in CANON and this show is MADE for that so theybetterfuckingdoitistg.)

he is also pre-neckwear in the message-in-a-bottle shot, so that's gotta be early too. And he looks..... conflicted. I think he's sending it.

Ed is too pretty, always. What the fuck.

Many, many curiosities about the vibe of the pic with him and Jackie - obviously it's her bar, but she is damn fancied up, and Ed is wearing.... not the leather. It's denim, with stars on the back. Does he leave the Revenge/Izzy before Stede finds him?

No idea what is happening in the pic where Pete is MAD excited. They are on a ship? Another ship? And I don't think that this is the moment they find the others..... OH. MAYBE THIS IS WHEN THEY FIND LUCIUS IN THE WALLS. AND HE'S ALL GROSS AND GHOSTY CAUSE HE'S BEEN PRETENDING TO HAUNT ED.

I have no thoughts on Susan yet other than YAY and PLEASE ALSO BE QUEER TOO. Show requirement. She looks badass and I am curious about her already.

(Honorable mention - my Wife, considering that no mention of Mary Read has been made yet, suggests/demands Suzie Izzard be cast as Anne's Wife since Minnie and Suzie were so good together in "The Riches." So get on that, Captain David.)

(So very grateful for this good food.)

#ofmd #ofmd s2 #meta #kind of? does this count as meta? sure #fangirling

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ltlemon · 1 year ago

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kk I'm gonna live blog episode 6 of OFMD because it'll be funny MAJOR SPOILERS but also like everything's super spaced out so you could probably read along with my reactions? (no clue why you would do that but the option is there.)

fair warning this is really long but no one's going to actually read this so that's fine.

that opening shot is SOO PRETTY

who tf is this guy

'my love'? is he fruity and evil? evil and fruity?

'god that was a beautiful pitch, that was really nice'??? I THINK SO???

I might end up liking the evil gay violin man

hi ed <33

oh no trauma

DRAMA WITH THE GIRLLLS <33 (Izzys little wiggle is precious)

HE THOUGHT HE WAS ROACH???? HOW DRUNK IS HE HOT DAMN

he did say sorry though :')

they're sharing the bottle !! the only times ed has done that with anyone that I can remember has been with calico jack and stede

fock off >:(

aww stede put away all his stuff for him

's probably not a good idea though

oop, yep, caught it. guilt room :(

poor stede he looks like he feels a little bad now.

he's so sweet about it though. <3

ARCHIE!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE HER SM

AA LOOK AT HOW JIM LOOKS AT HER

HOLY SHIT THAT WAS A BIRTHDAY STORY?!?!? AHAHAH

GIRL YOU ARE INSANE

oluwande looks like he's doubting his partners choice of a third slightly

fang's sticking his pinky out!

hehehehe they want a party <33

YEAHHHH

aww not stede offering to give the loot up to a good cause

give it a new purpose, one not tied to ed's guilt

you interrupted their little meeting >:(

EEhehe

YES TURN POISON INTO POSITIVITY

that's what I said

aw ed's charmed

✨I'm gonna go walk my dogs now, I'll be back✨

okok I'm back and I have a quesadilla

oh cool Ricky's back

you were minding your buisness?? no tf you weren't

heh, his new nose is cute though, it's like fancy china

old wrapped his arm around Jim!!! the cuties ever!!

AWWWWW HES FUCKINDUWDHAH

HES GIVING MONEY TO RANDOM KIDS BC HE WAS POOR AS A KID ADSIJN

I love him so much

'filthy little gutter rats' I'm dying

INN RP???

'don't be pirates' 'yeah agreed don't be pirates 😀'

zheng!

girl what is wrong with you

wee John doing drag makeup!!!!!!!! EAHEIDHAB

izzy seems quite intrigued

AWW stede's so charmed by the party

it's rubbing off on ed too

omfg Jim's so silly

just a little guy

HOLY SHIT WEE JOHN LOOKS GOOD

eeeeee ed's little smile at stede <33

WHAT THE FUCK IZZY MUSICAL SCENE WHAT

WHAT THE FUCK

AND HE'S GOOD!?!?!?!?

WIAIYT WAIT WAIT ARE THEU GONNA DANCE

PLEASE PLEAAAASE TELL ME THEYRE GONNA DANCE

fang's clapping for izzy in the background ee

UEUEUEUE SOME PEOPLE ARE DANCING

Jim and Archie are so flipping cute omfg

holy shit??? hand kiss???

AWWWW <<3333

OH OH OH AND JIMS DANCING WITH OLU TOO

THEY REALLY DO HAVE TWO HANDS

HAH HOLY SHIT THE THREE OF THEM ARE TRYING SO HARD

JIM SANDWICH

!!!!

AW OH OH NO ED SHIELDING STEDE-

oh its gay violin man!

'oh I'm going to torture you all. by the way. 😃' sorry I forgot, I meant evil gay violin man.

I love how when ed says 'its because I only hang out with cool pirates' Stede's looking at him like he just delivered the burn of the century

oh holy shit stede's getting pissed he's like stop touching him

'oh shit! You struck a chord, I think you got it in one!' his face here is so wholesome aa

'you torture like a bitch' 'yes ok honey maybe you shouldn't say that it might get us killed'

AW NO THE LITTLE 'it's me you want ITS ME YOU WANT' he can deal with it, causing pain to himself because of an action he did is fine, he's used to that, but that pain coming to stede is unacceptable.

'so what's the plan you...weird...fock?' starting to like izzy

AHDJAKSJ I love Lucius and Pete sm ya'll

his little conductors baton is really cute

Lucius and Pete in the lower levels of the ship looking like a shot from Alien

omfg stede asking for her name is so cute'

'where were you 😡' 'we got engaged 😄' 'aww🥰' 'anyways- 😡'

'alright gang! let's talk profit sharing! 😄' I'm dead

'don't do it stede 🥺' crying sobbing shaking

holy fucking shit stede

OH NO

baby's looking haunted by the horrors in his bedroom

??????

WHAT??

THE LOOK ON HIS FACE???? I NEED TO REWIND HOLD ON

HOLY SHIT

EDS FACE TOO HE WAS NOT EXPECTING THAT

sir you just killed a man???? why do you want to fuck now????????

aw ok but Izzy's back to singing though <33

he likes it :))

PHEW HOLY SHIT WHOA

OK IM STAYING SILENT FOR THIS SCENE ILL TALK WHEN ITS DONE I CANT FLIP BACK AND FORTH DURING THIS ONE BOYS (gn)

THAT WAS SO GOOD

LUCIUS'S LITTLE DANCE, EVERYONE SINGING ALONG,

GAY SEX?!?!?!

AGAGAAHAH

omg they're shouting for an encore in the creditsaaa 🥺

and Archie and roach interact yay!!

wow. ok. so we were right about the gay sex hips!!!

wow. we were right about the gay sex hips....

on to episode seven. (I may die within the next 24 minutes.)

#ofmd #our flag means death #ofmd s2 #ofmd season two #ofmd s2 spoilers #ofmd season 2 #random #lemon's live blogs #lemon speaks

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tvshowspoilers · 1 year ago

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So 19 hours in to S2 episode 1-3…how we feeling OFMD family? lol

I’ve got thoughts for episode 1…..

Olus little baby blue vest he has while serving in Republic of Pirates is beautiful.

Interesting faces Stede is making this season.

Serious goose Jim!

Swede has such a moving speech about Jackie ❤️❤️❤️

So this is 87 days since the end of season one and we still don’t know what made Ed change from Kraken at the end of S1ep10 to the first look in S2ep1 and DJ blew all our theories about the pearl necklace, Ed’s hair, and the gloves out of the water…unless I’m wrong (if I am please correct me and explain!) but yeah, so the necklace….came from a raid? He’s got the half gloves and his hair in a half bun….why? What was the moment that made him take off the cravat…? (Why does he put it back on…)

So he went to hard drugs (that’s what rhino horn is?) to numb the pain??? I’ve mostly read about alcohol abuse in fics but not drugs…tbh I was like “omg” s when I saw that

Poor Fang, after the wedding he is so upset about killing. My gentle giant . And his crying when Izzy is shot 😭

Are we going to get flashbacks of the 87 days? i assume so cause we are missing a lot if not. But I get it if they don’t because they don’t have a lot of runtime

This is bad quality but Ed still lights the fire

All the knives in the Stede’s table…oh the cabin..damn he was so proud of it

Izzy’s speech to Ed was just…it’s heartbreaking wether you like him or not cause it brings back that feeling we’ve all had of feeling like you aren’t enough, I think

But like Izzy and Ed’s convo is so important actually

Just realize Ed says “hi all” when “talking it through as a crew”

I still can’t believe Ed shot Izzy…like I’ve read two fanfics out of hundreds where he does that when it’s outside of defense of Stede

Frenchies little head shake to Izzy to tell him to not say anything more to Ed to make him mad

So..he’s pushing them until they kill him right? Because like a parallel to Stede in episode 1, he doesn’t know if he wants to live…?

Idk what to think about Rick? Like he could be playing Stede for reasons but if he’s serious about Stede saving his life…oof

I also have THOUGHTS about Stede being ready with his hand on his knife?

I love Jackie’s nightgown and that we are getting her more this season!

Jim would have been great story time! I love the way they tell the story lol

Damn the way Taika played Ed when talking to frenchie about the bird makes my heart hurt

Oh man and frenchies resignation…can he feel that Ed is about to crack at that moment?

Anyone want to make a meta on how at the end of epi 1, Stede is in the light and Ed is in the dark lol

Overall, really amazing start to the season and I can’t wait for more ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Onward to thoughts of episode 2!

#ofmd s2 spoilers

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izzyspussy · 2 years ago

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I posted 23,652 times in 2022

That's 3,868 more posts than 2021!

3,189 posts created (13%)

20,463 posts reblogged (87%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@calicojackofficial

@yankovic

@treesofgreen

@second-hand-heaven

@jezifster

I tagged 22,086 of my posts in 2022

Only 7% of my posts had no tags

#i can queue you with my brain - 4,132 posts

#jack facts - 3,426 posts

#horror tag - 2,986 posts

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Longest Tag: 140 characters

#s: do you think whales have feelings. i: shut the fuck up. go to sleep. e: i bet they do. i think they probably sing love songs to each othe

My Top Posts in 2022:

anyway so basically the crew overhears blackbonnet finally having sex, right, and it's ed's first time vanilla-ing so for the crew members who have overheard him before... sounds different. and everyone also just kind of alsfjasl figured that stede is not great in bed just given his general swaglessness. so ASLFKJASL they assume that ed is faking for him lmaoooo. even izzy is in on this. he hates the "invasion of blackbeard's privacy" BUT he loves the insult to stede and the potential for trouble in pansyboy paradise.

so the crew are all trying to figure this out. they're trying to catch them In It enough to really tell if those noises are genuine (and also, on the part of the black half what the fuck is captain bonnet doing) but at the same time nobody wants to actually have to bear witness. those are their dads.

throughout these hijinks (which mostly consist of gossip), izzy and the black half occasionally mention jack. izzy has the most info about That Whole Thing due to his curse/privilege of having been ed's (best? only? can you be the best if you're the only? much to forcibly not think about) friend previous to all of this. ed and jack had a Thing when they were young, and they usually take it up again briefly whenever they run into each other now.

so of course izzy gets an idea. he's already basically done this once, can't hurt to try again. but the rest of the crew is in on it this time - where izzy is trying to tempt ed and break him and stede up, everyone else just wants a first hand Source.

so izzy contacts jack by way of plot device messenger seagull or whatever and he shows up again (not sure if dead in canon...?). ed isn't as happy to see him this time but he doesn't seem upset either, though he does take jack aside on the first night so he can receive his threat to behave from Blackbeard (TM) without an audience. stede also, uh, has some words of warning for him. the crew (and the audience) know not what stede said, but strangely enough that seems to have been the more effective Talk.

unfortunately for izzy jack's presence does not do fuck or shit to cause drama between ed and stede. on the one hand, ed now has a direct comparison to make between the sex he was having and the sex he is having, and he's coming up preferable toward the present. on the other hand, jack makes stede jealous, which makes him possessive, which makes him get a little less vanilla, so really it's a moot point regardless. co-captain sex gets better/worse, depending which side of the door you're on.

jack, however, has a mission and he's gonna see it through. not izzy's mission, that guy is a fuckin downer (and he himself doesn't really want ed back, never really did honestly). the gossip mill, though. that thing needs fed and by god jack is gonna feed it. least he can do for murdering that bird is to tell everyone if their poncy captain is a hardcore freak or not.

so jack gives up trying to make ed horny - and it's not that this wasn't working, it's just that when ed got horny from, say, seeing jack mess around with that fucking whip, his first thought was always to take that up with stede - and instead just starts asking him things directly.

ed leads ship's business one morning (they alternate who has to get up early) and underneath his steadily growing scruff he looks like he's been fucking mauled. from just under both ears all the way down below the collar of his not especially high cut shirt (and who knows how much further) he's absolutely covered in red-purple hickeys.

"thought you hated being marked up," jack not-quite asks. ed grins at him, uncomplicatedly happy (and that's the real difference innit). he's the epitome of 'bright-eyed and bushy-tailed'.

"nah," he says. "didn't wanna risk being marked up. but i'm fucking blackbeard now, i can do whatever i want."

(now jack would never, ever admit this, not even to himself. but maybe now he's the one who's a little jealous, because-)

"you were blackbeard last time we fucked."

"yeah, guess i was," ed allows, entirely unperturbed. "you didn't try it."

"would you have let me?" jack asks, already knowing the answer perfectly well. ed thinks about it, very briefly, shrugs again.

"prob'ly not."

later, stede calls ed 'darling' on deck. jack asks about this too, and ed simply tells him that stede also calls him 'baby' and 'sweetheart'. sweetheart! he repeats in credulity, shaking his head, pointing at himself.

(jack did attempt to call ed 'baby' - once - and had been told that if he ever said it again he'd have his dick cut off and fed to him piece by piece over a period of several days.)

finally, finally, jack can't take the 'mystery' anymore and, in a tight weed circle with ed and a few lucky crew members one night after stede has long gone to bed, he asks straight up, "so how does he compare?"

it takes ed a moment to realize what the fuck jack is asking, and when he does he laughs out loud. "what, to you?"

and really. that fucking answers that, dunnit.

340 notes - Posted April 8, 2022

"only fanfiction has things like 'enemies to lovers'"

huh. weird. i could have sworn pride and prejudice was a traditionally published book studied academically as a piece of classic literature...

819 notes - Posted January 11, 2022

I hate when I read a good book and it makes me want to write my book good but writing a good book is not nearly as easy as reading one

947 notes - Posted September 27, 2022

Ok final ask from me tonight: who in the crew would be the funniest for Izzy to fake date? I think angstiest would definitely go to Ed but funniest? Idk ~ blackhannet anon

Funniest (and angstiest) if Ed has no earthly clue that this is torture for Izzy. Also very funny that his only point of reference is Stede. Ed, in his mind: so which of us is the wealthy landowner and which of us is the bloodthirsty pirate? He puts himself into the Stede role and treats Izzy real chivalrous and gentlemanly and whatnot, but.... very badly kaslfkjls. He doesn't actually know how to do it.

Stede

Stede, in his mind: so which of us is the wealthy landowner and which of us is the bloodthirsty pirate? Can I be the pirate? I wanna be the pirate. I'm going to be the pirate. And Izzy has to figure out how to play along with that or they fail the fucking mission and get killed or whatever.

Jim

The extent of what they do to convince their mark is hold hands, poorly. Like Stede and Mary on their wedding day. ...At First. Izzy has been saying what a terrible idea this is since it was suggested, and as soon as it seems like he was right he's gloating even though it means he's failed. And then it's a challenge to Jim, a way to win and also wipe that smirk off of Izzy's face. They start hitting him really hard in the mouth with their mouth for no god damn reason except that the mark is, like, there.

Oluwande

Olu treats Izzy with chivalry, but like, real genuine working class chivalry. Every time Izzy looks into the middle distance, Jim is there, threatening him with great bodily harm. No one else ever sees them.

Lucius

The plan was not to fake date, but the mark made assumptions and they had to go with it. Lucius has an absolute blast. Izzy's internal rage/sexual tension is pulled so tight it's a miracle he doesn't snap right in half. Lucius is fully aware of this, and the knowledge is 80% of the fun he's having.

Black Pete

Izzy has never been called so many pet names in his life. He's never heard of so many pet names in his life. He attempts to return the favor and sounds like he is trying to speak a language he does not know. The mark falls for the ruse because Pete is very cute despite all obstacles, but they do take Pete aside after their business is done and ask if Izzy has something fundamentally wrong with him.

Frenchie

Somehow this is the most competent combination. Frenchie is adaptable and personable and can manage to fit with Izzy pretty well, even if he wouldn't actually choose to for real. They fall into simple, non-PDA demonstrations of intimacy like walking in sync or anticipating each other's movements. The only fuck up is that Frenchie does accidentally reprise "Jizzy" in front of the mark, and in the name of their cover Izzy has to answer to it.

Buttons

Izzy thinks this is the least objectionable combination. Buttons doesn't like him, but he's a competent sailor and he hasn't yet caused Izzy any real trouble. Of course, throughout the grift, Izzy is confronted with all the ways Buttons is an absolutely bonkers person who cannot be handled, understood, or even described. Buttons has an alright time, though. He tells the crew after it's done that Izzy is "a fine lad" but not his type. Izzy has no comment, as he has not yet recovered from his experiences.

Roach

Roach seems to genuinely think he Needs to know about Izzy's kinks and fetishes to make them believable as a couple. He tells Izzy his without shame or prompting. Izzy cancels the mission.

Wee John

Wee John insists he has to be a woman for this. He's fully aware that couples do not solely consist of one man and one woman. But he insists he has to be a woman for this.

The Swede

The Swede, out loud: so which of us is the wealthy landowner and which of us is the bloodthirsty pirate?

1,349 notes - Posted May 8, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

rookie mistake ed made not letting stede and izzy sniff each other through the bathroom door for a week before introducing them smh

1,986 notes - Posted April 19, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

#tumblr2022 #year in review #my 2022 tumblr year in review #your tumblr year in review #jack facts #writing process #reading process

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froggieboisposts · 1 year ago

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So to start, the show is based off of historical pirates. Blackbeard was an infamous pirate during the early 1700’s, and Stede Bonnet was a rich man (not sure of his exact title) who ran away from his wife, kids, and old life for one of thrills and piracy. (accuracy was thrown out the window but I’ll get to that later)

So we have our two Main main characters:

These two goobers. My silly little guys. The one on the right is Stede, and the one on the left it Ed, also known as Blackbeard.

For the first couple episodes, we get just Stede and his crew attempting to do normal pirate things on their ship, the Revenge, with mixed results. At about episode 3, Ed comes into the mix with his own ship and they hit it off pretty quick. There’s a really important scene where Ed and Stede are in a closet (figuratively and literally) where Stede discovers that Ed=Blackbeard, and is SHOOK. Like, the dude is noticeably concerned and worried about being alone with this man.

The original plan that Ed had was he was gonna kill Stede and steal his identity, but that was pretty quickly thrown overboard :) They spend time together, they start to get along, and they start to fall for each other. In episode 5 they sneak into a fancy party (the scene above) and we get another special moment

Please pardon the quality of the gifs. But it’s a full moon. With a ocean background. My man is flirting without even noticing. It’s killing me.

Anyhow, imma stop here with my mile and a half long sum up of this TV show, cause if I keep going I'm not gonna stop. If you wanna start watching it, I have a link with all the episodes (S1 + S2), please let me know if you want it! And thanks for asking about the show, it's was really fun getting to infodump about it!!! (Obv I left a lot out of the sum up with the other characters but I can go in-depth with them too if you want to know a bit more about the rest of the main cast)

Hello my friend! Silly bit, but I gotta ask cause I need someone to infodump on:

Have you ever heard of a show called Our Flag Means Death? Cause we just got new episodes of S2 today and I'm going insane

No I haven’t bestie, tell me more!

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raggedy-dxctor · 3 years ago

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love your izzy/reader content, it's exactly what i need! you do such a good portrayal of izzy. i was wondering if you could write some fluff where reader is apart of the crew, and izzy is his usual grumpy self but starts to fall for the reader/has a soft spot for them? thank you :x

Izzy Hands w/ a soft spot for you

pairing(s): izzy hands x gn!reader, mentions of blackbonnet <3

warnings: lovesick izzy <3

i mean the crew would pick up on his soft spot INSTANTLY

like THE izzy hands fawning over someone?? it's so obvious he's in love with you to everyone but you, because like you're a new addition to the crew, how could you know that this was absolutely unheard of for izzy?

from the moment ed invites you on board, izzy is absolutely smitten.

he's never grumpy or harsh to you, treating you with care and a sort of giddy kindness, probably without even realizing at first

"mr hands? are you ok?" "izzy, please! you call me izzy! and um- yes im fine. thank you." he responds a little too quick, clearly very flustered, and the entire crew just freezes and looks at him with disbelief

"my god! this entire fucking crew is so lazy! get to work you twats!" everyone kinda scrambles off leaving just you because he hasn't assigned you a job yet but he just stsnds infront of you and smiles. "what do you want me to do izzy?" "absolutely nothing darling, you should take the day off" "but you said the entire cre-" "you're an exception." he's just gazing into your eyes with a hand gently placed on your shoulder, like it's such an intimate moment that the entire crew and the two of you wonder how you didn't just crash your lips into eachother's at that exact moment

he's always so grumpy in the mornings if he hasn't seen you, so much so that lucius has resorted to stopping by your room every morning just so he can wake you up on time and use izzy's love for you to calm him down instantly.

one morning he knocks on the door a few times but gets no reply, so he quitely cracks open the door and peers around it, only to find you and izzy cuddled up together, legs entangled as he little spoons. as soon as izzy finds out lucius saw the two of you he runs to him and threatens him like he's never threatened a person before, so much so that lucius is actually slightly scared, not doubting for a second that he was genuine about the threat

he always makes an effort to spend time with you and it's just so glaringly obvious that he's in love with you

always compliments you and has that soft, fond smile reserved for you and only you

"you look absolutely perfect today, my love" and at this loint you're not even dating, he's just so in love that he uses petnames as if the two of your were. he has a hand on your shoulder, letting it gently trail down your arm before meeting your hand and interlocking his fingers with it. someone interrupts the moment and he just whirls around, glaring at them with a firey anger, his thumb still gently stroking the top of yout hand. the person just pales, hastily apologizing as they scuttle off (unless it's lucius who just rolls his eyes and saunters away)

if you're messing around wih lucius he'll try his absolute hardest not to get angry and probably even try to join in, but he just makes it awkward because he's constantly on the brink at exploding at lucius, not you, never you. just lucius

one time the crew sees you with one of his jackets, after he gave it to you the night before because you were cold, and they almost just. pass out from shock

it's no secret to anyone that you bring out the best in izzy and everyone is so grateful for that, especially ed, who had given up the blackbeard act the moment he saw stede again. izzy still absolutely despises them together and the changes stede caused in edward, but with you by his side he's found himself caring less and less each day sbout the love between the two pirate captains. that being said if stede ever leaves again izzy has vowed to gut him like a fish

#izzy hands #izzy hands x reader #our flag means death fanfiction #our flag means death x reader #our flag means death #con o'neill

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knowlesian · 3 years ago

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i’m crying over stede in the bar in e10 again, and i wanted to spotlight something i find endlessly impressive— the care these writers have when they’re landing big moments, and their laser focus on word choice.

really good writers are really careful with how they say what they say; it’s the whole “if i tell you i’m taking you to my cottage in the forest, things are probably going to be instagramable; if i say we’re going to my cabin in the woods, you’re gonna die” joke in action. the essential meaning behind those two examples is the same, the definition more or less the same, but because of word choice they drag incredibly different subtext/implications in with them.

i’m just gonna tear into it line by line, don’t mind me!

What is Blackbeard like? Is he as bloodthirsty as everyone says?

He’s absolutely lovely!

so stede’s instinct is to say ed is lovely. there’s a lot of cool things happening here; stede stuck up for ed, stede got over his urge to just nod and agree and not cause a ruckus when he feels the need to please or impress someone, and stede embraced his first and truest impulse: to be lovely, himself.

because that is unmistakably pushback, covered in a compliment and gently delivered as stede has been taught to handle these things: the men tell us he’s a monster, and stede says oh but he’s lovely. no he’s not, is the subtext here. you’re wrong about him, stede is essentially saying.

(and in my favorite way to turn the lighthouse/kraken metaphor angle, where it’s about life as both/and, not either/or, and to be a monster and a lighthouse at once is to embrace that which makes us awesome while also embracing that which makes us suck with eyes/heart wide open: stede is also unconsciously saying ‘even if you were right! no matter what he is! he is lovely and i love him, all the while.’)

the men, as i covered in my meta here, don’t want that: they want to hear about a cartoon monster, have some cheap thrills and confirm their worldview all at once.

because of what stede says next, i want to stress: he doesn’t want to do any of this. he’s gotten through whatever stories he told after they all cheered his very presence, and he is absolutely fine bragging about his duel with izzy— things are going good in his quest to Win At Terrible Social Situations.

(sidenote: i love how stede just doesn’t ever feel his usual need to impress and hide his more unpleasant feelings or snippy side with izzy; from the moment they met, it’s like stede just went ‘i sense your purse dog energy, and i raise you i’m not scared of a fucking purse dog?????’ for reasons that remain partially a mystery but DELIGHT ME.)

being asked to confirm the stereotype he knows ed hates feels wrong. he doesn't know it yet, but he loves ed, and thanks to everything they went through he knows talking about ed like that would be particularly hurtful.

but: he wants attention, he wants to feel wanted, he wants to win the game for the very first time ever.

because he didn’t win the game, in e5; he realized the game is stupid and hurtful and overturned the table, instead, and it was A W E S O M E.

that night happened, stede learned what he learned and gained what he gained, and yet: here he sits, alone in a bar even while surrounded by assholes. and he knows, down in the pit of his stomach where these kind of painful things like to take root and fester: i have never once won this stupid fucking game, in my entire life of playing it. i found out i could just refuse to play, and doing that felt amazing, but i wasn’t alone then. i am alone now, i thought i was making the right choice by coming home but i am as unwanted as ever and i don’t know how to make these pieces fit into what the world reminded me is my place in life through chauncey, while he played my specific insecurities and self-loathing like a fiddle right before he repeated the last major trauma i experienced in a way that was comedic for the audience, but horrifying and triggering for me. i am angry and scared and i hurt, i think maybe i have made a mistake though i can’t allow myself to know it, not yet— and, most painfully of all: i spent my whole life training for this, i have played this stupid fucking game and gotten nothing but scorn for it for so long, i don’t know if i can take it again after knowing what life feels like without it.

stede looks at the way their expressions change, hears the evidence of the crowd turning on him, and does not so much think as feel: i have never, ever won.

when you invest a lot of time and energy and care into anything, be it a system or a hobby or an ideal, the hardest thing in the world to do, even harder than walking away, is realizing: well, fuck. whatever i used to get out of this, if anything, i am not getting that now. i should stop. i don’t even like this.

so when all the men’s faces fall and he starts to lose them (“disappointed murmurs”, the captions tell us, and choose to be helpful instead of their usual approach of generally scattershot on dialogue) stede scrambles to scoop the ball he knows he just fumbled back up, and uses his audience’s word choice in the kind of social/literal echoing guaranteed to get positive results:

Oh, and of course, a bloodthirsty killer.

that gets him their approval again, complete with wide grins and a bunch of nodding that tells us this is what they want: reflect their beliefs back, stede, or you not only don’t win this one you are going to lose, and lose hard.

these men literally cheered the fact that stede was in the room, however many stories ago that was. we know he’s known one of them since childhood; we can assume he’s at least vaguely familiar with the rest. he expected their scorn, but received jealous admiration. he’s different and has things they don’t that they actually see value in, now, not just what they consider weird gay clothes and weird gay trinkets and weird gay interests and habits that make stede weird and gay in a way they very much want him to feel ashamed about.

just the opposite. they looked at him, and they cheered for his very presence. the feeling that gave him was a shadow of the feeling he got when he put on ed’s clothes and stumbled onto the deck in leather armor and ed said: if you motherfuckers don’t clap for my new half-drowned golden retriever of a boyfriend, i will BURN THIS PLACE TO THE GROUND. CLAP FOR HIM OR FUCKIN SEE WHAT HAPPENS, but it’s still a balm to his very bruised soul.

here’s the seductive difference between then and now: ed made everybody clap for stede. ed’s legend, ed’s status. ed’s name they were clapping for, even if stede was the one receiving the attention and applause.

these assholes might be assholes, and i think stede damn well knows their approval is not worth all this because he doesn't actually think they’re his friends or like them much as people, but they know stede’s name. stede’s new legend and his status.

they’re cheering for stede bonnet: gentleman pirate. the crew did that once and it felt so fucking good that stede started to believe in his own potential to be just that in spite of himself.

not play at pirates; be a pirate.

and now he’s here and the crew is not, mary is Not Happy he’s back and the kids are just as unimpressed. he came back for them; they don’t even want him around.

these men? these... really annoying, could do with some therapy themselves, stuck in a toxic rut men?

for the first time: he entered a crowded room, and the people who made up the crowded rooms he spent his life alone in were happy he was there. they were hanging on his every word, up until now; he’s so, so close to winning.

so stede adds:

Born of the devil, and all that.

i mean. ohhhhh, these writers. oh these very heartbreaking and careful writers.

what did ed’s mother say, when she fed him the poison she’d been convinced to believe was a cure to the deadly illness of reaching too far above one’s station: god doesn’t want us to have these things. we could steal them, or pretend we wear them well and find out if people believe us, but god would always see into our hearts and know we aren’t the sort of people who deserve fine things.

there are a lot of things the writers could have put in stede’s mouth that would have confirmed these men’s impressions of ed that weren’t a one-two punch of accidental pain; he’s a fearsome pirate. a brilliant fighter, capable of pulling off mad plans no mortal man would attempt. he taught me a thing or two about swordplay, actually, and now back to my duel with izzy—

he says none of those things. bloodthirsty, these men gave him; not one of god’s creatures, stede filled in himself. a killer, born of the devil.

now, stede himself knows the first part would hit ed in a wound so old it festers to this day; ed confessed to him that he takes care not to use his own two hands to directly kill, not since he used them to protect himself from a man unworthy of the title ‘father’. he’s hurt people, he’s brought their deaths about. he has not killed them, and it matters to ed that stede knew that.

it’s a thoughtless moment; he’s not consciously thinking to himself, ‘i have just, in the span of so very few words, invalidated a core tenet of ed’s identity. if he heard me say this, he would be so, so hurt: i have accidentally done something very damaging and echoed some racist talking points without realizing it. oooooh fuck. ohhhh no, i fucked up i think.’

however, you know that pit of the stomach, ugly feeling when you say or do something you can kind of tell yourself isn’t a big deal, but you know it actually is? and then a little voice inside you says: you should feel shitty about what just happened, for valid reasons that have nothing to do with how you always feel shitty. this one’s on you, kid, and it’s going to be on you to fix it, too.

i think that’s what stede experiences there.

he doesn’t know all the complicated reasons why, just yet, which accomplishes a couple things at once.

on the writerly level, it calls back to ed’s past and fears and helps us as an audience understand why there’s a direct connection from what he says here to stede’s immediate move into a guilt spiral at mary’s art showing; he knows he feels gross about himself later because he didn’t stick up for ed about the killer part, but only the writers know about ed’s conversation with his mother and so they can reference it in a way that calls it out to us as an audience, but doesn’t pretend stede the character has knowledge he doesn’t.

on a sociological level, it displays a much more modern and coded racism from the bar assholes, as well as a general blindness to the same from stede: he’s thinking bloodthirsty as in pirate, and that’s the surface conversation. but floating underneath it, just like it did with the french captain when he called ed an animal and the way stede stood up for ed contained a subtextual dig about ed not having a tureen, either, is that ed is a pirate who is not white. i put it that way on purpose, because that’s the quiet part loud: it’s not about who ed is for these jerks, it’s about what he is not.

so when stede upholds the legend of blackbeard in a way that would be a knife through the heart of the man behind it, the writers do a couple backflips and give us a whole essay on why and how this is happening without saying more than seventeen words and leaning hard on social cues and the kind of subtext ed understands damn well and stede has learned by now to recognize through watching ed’s response to the same— but again the writers know their shit, because they yanked stede away before he learned to decipher the code on his own and/or ed said to him in plain terms: baby, i love you, but that quiet part kept quiet stuff’s still racist. violence is violence, even when it’s the silent kind.

stede knows saying that was wrong; he can identify that he stumbled there, if not all the reasons why, and we know that because he immediately redirects. no more questions about ed at all is his boundary; and once again, the writers nail it.

the guy straight out of central ‘this one’s an asshole, folks, watch out’ casting (who made a face so excited it looked a little like he was getting off on stede saying ed was born of the devil) is no longer quite as satisfied with these stories.

he wants the monster. if ed isn’t just a monster: what’s the fucking point of this story? if stede isn’t ready and willing to throw ed under the bus, if he actually thinks ed is lovely: is he really one of them?

if ed’s not just a monster, and stede’s not just one of them: is stede the monster?

so he pipes up, you ever kill anybody? i want to feast tonight, and if you won’t give us ed you’ve always been next on our gross little menu.

that’s the other quiet part loud: stede is only safe if there’s somebody else they can all be above, together. once they’re done with ed...

stede was never, ever truly safe among these men, is the point. he has lived his life in moments between these sorts of interactions, cringing in anticipation away from the next one before it even begins.

what do we mean when we say violence? because stede has known a kind of safety and comfort that make it easier to sleep on his nice mattress at night and supplies marmalade and fancy ships and gated communities: it has never once made him truly safe.

it has never even made these men asking stede to hurt the man he loves for their entertainment safe. it’s killing them all, bit by precarious privileged bit.

they can’t see it: stede can.

again, he doesn’t give them the answer they want. killing was unavoidable, not exciting. he’s seen death; and it changes you, forever, but not in ways these men want to hear.

(there’s a fun thematic overlap here, between stede’s two accidental ‘murders’ and ed’s fine moral line that led him to the same sort of murderer once removed aesthetic: it’s not quite the same, but they are ideally equipped to understand the other’s situation, if only they would both open up at once and see what happens next.)

stede thinks he’s telling them killing sucks; they hear, killing is AWESOME. killing makes you a Real Man. probably it makes your dick bigger and harder, and if you kill people your horse will stop shitting itself all the time when you ride it to the bar to complain about your bitch wife with the boys and everyone will love you and you will never wake up crying in the night because you can never be satisfied.

now, they don’t actually want to do their own killing; that would be messy and hard and maybe kind of sad, but they can feed off what they consider stede’s confirmed manful glory and have a circlejerk over his proof that men like them were meant to rule the world.

another round is ordered, the cheers start up again: stede’s face remains deeply, deeply unhappy. they didn’t fucking hear him. he was so clear: they’re not listening. they’re writing their own story on top of his words, a story that isn’t about stede (or ed!) at all, and only serves to confirm what they already believe.

and he knows: ed would have listened. ed would have heard him, but ed isn’t here because stede left him behind, and to top it all off he forgot himself for half a second chasing the high of a win and said something terrible.

seventeen words: it took seventeen words to remove any flavor from this for him.

in the end, it hurts like a motherfucker now, but in terms of character growth and stede pulling out of the cycle that’s a good thing: unfortunately but realistically stede needed to actually get the thing he wanted to realize, oh shit. oh fuck. ohhhh fuck. thanks: i fucking hate it.

sometimes you gotta just touch that stove and find out: yes, it is in fact still hot.

god, this show is smart.

(and i don’t think it’s any mistake that before we follow stede’s depressed ass over to mary’s showing and he subtext yells I AM NEITHER GENTLEMAN NOR PIRATE, I AM SO SAD AND ALONE AND MAD AT EVERYTHING, THIS IS A CRY FOR HELP DELIVERED VIA BAD LIFE CHOICE-O-GRAM, I THINK I FUCKED UP???? we have izzy tearing down ed’s attempts to build himself back up with a similarly short sentence about what izzy thinks it means that ed is in a silk gown, pining for his boyfriend. the way this show uses narrative echoes and parallels without relying on the simple 1:1 absolutely kills me.)

#our flag means death #ofmd spoilers #my ofmd meta #ohhhhh stede you make me so sad #these writers are just so damn good at ...people!!! and all our dumb weird habits!#it's so fucking rewarding to watch this i really should just give in and do those damned recaps

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duodipersponsh · 2 years ago

Text

Izzy Hands as a semi-verbal character. Hear me out.

Izzy Hands using sign language, half of which has been rawly developed by their previous and current crew to communicate the basic stuff and half of which was invented by him and Edward, which is why they sometimes engage in very heated arguments that no one else understands. Edward is gesturing and yelling simultaneously while Izzy is signing silently and threateningly, refusing to back down an inch. Of course Izzy sign-swears a lot.

Izzy Hands with his menacing look. It's been obvious that he's terribly talented since he was young, and nobody on earth can look down on him and walk away with all limbs. He is respected, and when he approaches without any word, you better notice it immediately. He is feared, and there are almost as many legends about the silent pirate as there are about Blackbeard.

Izzy Hands pinned to the wall by an especially angry Ed, frozen, not making a single sound, just watching with his eyes wide open and his breath barely audible. He cannot sign from this position, but he wouldn't know what to say even if he could. Edward somehow doesn't notice the implications and decides this is what Izzy looks like when he's scared.

Izzy Hands finding himself on the Revenge. This is the first time in ages he remembers he's not actually that tall. Turns out it's much harder to successfully threaten a person if said person is a muppet. Jim can communicate with him almost immediately, most of the others are just low-key ignoring him, but Lucius sees him for the touch-starved teenager he is and teases him all. the. time. For some reason, it's been three days and Lucius is still alive. Must be a miracle.

Izzy Hands forced to communicate with Stede with only nods, rolled eyes and unsheathed daggers (Stede is not impressed. Ed snorts and is not impressed either. Humiliating.). Stede is mostly polite and does his best to learn from Ed as quickly as possible, but the awkward silences are still there during the first couple of weeks cause Izzy is NOT making it easier for S-t-e-d-e Focking B-o-n-n-e-t. The arguments are there as well. Somehow, Stede deciphers Izzy's resting face as smirks.

Izzy Hands finally entering the muppet policule. His repressed soul has absolutely no idea what to do now. It takes him so long to come to terms with the new reality where he only needs to ask his boyfriends and he'll be cuddled all through the night. He never does.

Instead, Izzy Hands comes to the captains' quarters one day and stands still without any sign or sound, longing to be loved but knowing no way to express it (he looks like a sad soaked puppy but he doesn't know it so please don't tell him). Stede and Ed are extremely careful, guiding him inside, ofering him a seat, kissing him very very gently so as not to scare him.

Izzy Hands cries silent happy tears.

I haven't been able to watch the whole show due to how triggering the visuals sometimes get but I hope I didn't miss anything, also i only have rare times of semi-verbality so tell me if anything bothers you!

#izzy hands #steddy hands #ofmd #ofmg #edward teach #stede bonnet #lucius spriggs #jim jimenez #semiverbal #sign language #ofmd prompt #tw mild language

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avastyetwats · 1 year ago

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The only commotion in the tavern had been laughter, yelling and even someone bawling his eyes out for whatever reason. Stede almost wanted to ask why, but then he became involved in a commotion that eventually pulled the most attention in the tavern. Was it his fault? Stede didn't think so considering the fact that this man dared to shove Lucius aside as he walked by, but the rudeness didn't stop there. No. When Lucius voiced his displeasure, the man turned back, called him some rather cruel names and got far to close to his face for Stede's comfort, his hand gripping the blade of his cutlass so that's when Stede rose to his feet. He wasn't having it.

Lucius wasn't exactly thrilled to have Stede Bonnet of all people defending him, given the man could barely hold his own in a fight and the instigator was rather large and intimidating, but he appreciated his Captain for even standing up for him. For caring that much. Not many did throughout his life but Stede never hesitated to stand up for his crew and Lucius respected him greatly for that... even if it could land him in more trouble like now.

He managed to squeeze himself in between the two of them, eventually letting Lucius take his seat while Stede dealt with the man. Words were exchanged and, well, eventually the larger man withdrew his sword and that made Stede take a few steps back. He was feeling nervous now, not looking forward to engaging in a duel with him, but he couldn't back down. Not in a room full of people. He wanted to be a well known pirate after all and maybe, just maybe, he'd somehow get lucky in this fight. If there was one thing Stede as good at, it was using the area around him to his advantage. He was also good at running and given their size differences, he'd like have the upper hand with that and navigating the several furniture within the room. So, he'd put on an act. He wouldn't show fear... or he'd try not to.

He talks himself up as he withdraws his own sword, eliciting gasps and oohs from around the room while his own crew faceplams. The man grins and suddenly two others appear behind him, their swords also drawn. Allies, Stede guesses. Now he's even more nervous, a bit scared, and not feeling at all confident that he can win this fight. Perhaps he can use his words though. Stall them until he thought of something, provoke them into messing up... something.

"Oh, now I'm just disappointed." Stede sighs as he lowers his weapon.

The man's claw clenches. "Disappointed? What the fuck for?"

"Because here I thought I'd have a challenge. A good ol' fashion one on one, but I see you're far to scared to take me on yourself."

"What!?" The vein in his head pops out, the man's nostrils flaring with anger at the insult.

"Well, clearly you need assistance. You're not capable of taking me on yourself." He gestures to the other two men and they look equally pissed off. "It's alright to admit you're scared. That you can't win on your own. Lay down your sword now and I'll let you off easy." He's trying to provoke him and embarrass him. "Come on. We both know you can't beat me in a duel one on one. Everyone here knows it, so you--"

"You little shit!" The man charges forward with his weapon and Stede yelps before he jumps to the side causing the man to crash into the table in front of him. There's words of annoyance from the other guests whose drinks were just knocked over and Stede has a wide smile on his face, feeling proud, until he's grabbed by one of the other men from behind. His smile now nervous, Stede turns his head. "Mind the coat, please. It's one of my favorites." He pleads and the other man in front is about to run his sword through but someone hits the man holding him from behind, causing him to let Stede go so he ducks just before the other swings his sword. Eventually a fight breaks within the tavern, several guests become involved. Some because their tables were disturbed and other's just wanting to be part of the fun.

At some point, Stede managed to sneak to the back and he makes his way outside, intending to go back in through the front and grab his crew before heading back to the ship. Only he forgot about the first man, the one that started all of this because there he was behind him, and when Stede turned he's met with a large fist, sending him onto the ground. Blood drips from his nose and he struggles to get back to his feet, especially when the man kicks his legs out when he attempts, his sword drawn, aimed right at Stede's chest. He pulls back and thrusts forward, eyes filled with rage, ready to end this pathetic pirate's life.

Gentlemen of a feather

#sorry for the wait! I hope this is okay haha #i had so much fun with it omg!#still not sure where it takes place in the timeline though #but i figure it might come easier as we write/talk more!#ashortdropandasuddenstop

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forabeatofadrum · 3 years ago

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Good morning @martsonmars. Thank you for the early tag. Welcome to the madness.

Cause oh shit waddup it’s been a while, but it’s time for another WIP Wednesday Hospital. If you missed the other two here and here and you’re wondering what the fuck is going on: the WIP hospital ward is where all my WIPs are waiting for me. I intend to actually finish them one day (aka discharge them). Some WIPs have been in this long-stay hospital ward for years. Although a lot of today’s 10 patients recently joined! You can visit all of them, or only a few. I bolded the fandoms/characters for quick browsing. I once again recommend others to do the same, because it’s fun to look back at WIPs that haven’t had attention in a while.

I know a lot of western countries got rid of the Covid measurements for some fucking reason, but here, please still mask up, wash your hands, and since we’re still living in these unprecedented times, keep some distance. Leave your names on the visitors’ list:

@quizasvivamos @blurglesmurfklaine @coffeegleek @esperantoauthor @redheadgleek @urban-sith @mostlymaudlin @captain-aralias @dragoneggo @otherworldsivelivedin @bookish-bogwitch @caramelcoffeeaddict @thnxforknowingme @sillyunicorn @ivelovedhimthroughworse @wellbelesbian @cutestkilla @urban-sith @excalisbury @facewithoutheart @takitalks @bazzybelle (hi) @tea-brigade (hi) and other possible visitors.

Patient no. 1 has been getting some care. It’s Ebb and Flow, the Klaine fic for the 3-2-1 Prompt Bang. It’s been a challenging one to care for, but we’re finally getting somewhere.

Maybe it’s a good thing that the OTHER JOB OFFER didn’t work out, because Blaine realises that he likes playing for The Street. Nothing can ruin his good mood, not even the sight of Mr. 21 and some of the wardrobe crew.

Blaine does stop when he sees that Mr. 21 and his colleagues are holding Nintendo Switches. He didn’t expect Mr. 21 to play video games. Then again, he didn’t expect Mr. 21 to be capable of having fun. This is actually a great idea for two-show days. Blaine should take his console with him to work as well.

Mr. 21 looks up from his Switch and his face falls.

Right, of course, Nintendo Switch or not, Mr. 21 still hates the sight of Blaine.

“Sorry to disappoint you, but I’ll be here for two more months,” Blaine says shortly.

Mr. 21’s mouth falls open and Blaine almost laughs. Is Mr. 21 really that shocked and upset about the news? It feels weirdly satisfying. Blaine walks away with a grin on his face.

Someone who’s familiar with the industry, please give me a possible other job offer. The website of NYU doesn’t list actual career possibilities, just “in the field of music” or whatever. Like, thanks a lot for nothing!

Patient no. 2 is for the @co-wipadoption fest. It’s called Call Me Maybe and it’s about Penny and Agatha friendship.

I change into something comfortable, order Thai, and I snuggle with Lucy on my sofa. I have my phone in my hand to check the time. It’s eight o’clock in the evening, which means it’s four o’clock at night in England. (I know, I have the London time zone standard in my Clock app.)

I don’t want to call Penelope back, but I told her I would, and I really don’t want her to be the one to call first.

So I dial her number, hoping she’s awake so that I can put an end to this promise. If she’s not, then she will see that I called. Maybe that’s good enough and I actually hope she won’t pick up.

Of course she does.

Patient no. 3 is a funny one. It’s an Our Flag Means Death fic. Why is it a funny one? Because I haven’t watched this show yet.

“Ed!”

Edward slowly opens his eyes. Everything is foggy. How long has been asleep?

“Ed!” he hears again. Edward sits up and Stede is running towards him with a huge smile on his face.

“... what?” Edward says and yawns.

“Finally, I found you! Sorry to keep you waiting. I called out your name several times, but seems like you were asleep. But no worries, I spent all my extra time coming up with brilliant names. What about Jodie Bottom?”

“Jolly - bottom?”

“Jodie!”

Patient no. 4 is another fucking Snowbaz fic. This idea just came to me. It’s a canon divergence future fic. After the events of Carry On, Simon just disappears. Years later, Baz and Agatha are a power couple, but they’re unhappily married (you know, the queer thing) and Baz has an affair with Simon, who resurfaced from fuck knows where. The entire fic will be written through gossip newspaper entries. Have a snippet of the prologue.

Where Has Our Chosen One Gone?

Almost a year since the end of the war, Simon Snow is still nowhere to be found. The question that remains is: does he want to be found?

NAME AUTHOR | 4 December 2016

It has been a year since the Humdrum got defeated by Simon Snow, and yet questions about that day remain. On December 26th 2015, the Chosen One, two of his friends (Penelope Bunce and Tyrannus Basilton Grimm-Pitch), the Mage (David Cadwallader) and Ebeneza Petty were all present when the Humdrum finally disappeared.

The Mage and Petty perished and the Chosen One, Grimm-Pitch and Bunce were held in custody by the Coven. The Chosen One was last seen at the Bunce Residence in Hounslow, where he had to sit out his house arrest and eventual trial, on December 29th 2015. No one knows how he disappeared and where he has gone. Grimm-Pitch and the Bunce family had no idea. The Coven used the regulated spell I want the truth and nothing but the truth to make sure.

The inhabitants of the World of Mages have since then been wondering why the Chosen One left. What does he have to hide? What really happened at the White Chapel?

If someone has a suggestion for the author’s name, lemme know. I might make an OC, or use an existing character. Or both. I think multiple people will write for the Magickal Record’s gossip page.

Patient no. 5 is a Sarah Jane Adventures one. I’ve been talking about writing my own spin-off since 2017 about Luke’s gay adventures at Oxford. One day, I will post it.

“I wanted to have a break from the constant stress at Oxford,” Luke sighs, “So of course, when I go home, I walk in on you four restraining a Weevil descendant.”

Rani is still pushing the Weevil descendant into a plastic bag. Clyde is holding the bag. His mum is holding a weapon, ready to shoot if it breaks free. Sky is still busy reading Mr. Smith’s data on Weevils and Torchwood’s encounters with Weevils.

Just an ordinary day at 13 Bannerman Road.

The next 2 patients have formed some sort of duo, since they’re all about Simon getting adopted. Patient no. 6 is Fiona adopting Simon. It won’t have romantic Snowbaz, though, since they’re cousins in this fic. Simpard, maybe? Surprise, this snippet is Natasha POV.

“You have to talk me out of an not-well-thought decision!”

I sigh. My sister hardly phones and when she does it’s usually so that I could bail her out of something. Fiona’s been back in England for a week and she’s already caused quite a stir. I love my sister, but I can’t wait for her to go back to China to finish her apprenticeship.

“What did you do, Fiona? Or actually, what do you want to do?”

I hope she isn’t trying out spells that recreate the feeling of being high. Again. The last time she did, she wanted to test them on me, but I said no.

“Okay, fuck, so you know I’m visiting an old friend in Wales, right? Well, fucking hell, we passed this Normal orphanage and Tasha, I kid you not, I felt magic coming from that orphanage.”

“You did?”

“So I checked it out to see if a staff member had magic, but Merlin’s tits, no! It was a baby. And that little baby had a fuckton of magic, Tasha. You wouldn’t believe it!”

I frown. Now she has my attention. A magickal baby in an orphanage? That can’t be right. Magic is too precious to surrender to Normalcy.

“That’s indeed weird, Fi, but what are you doing to do about it?” I ask.

What she says next astounds me.

Patient no. 7 is about the Bunces adopting Simon. It’s Mitali POV for this snippet. At first, Mitali still believes that Lucy is alive so she starts looking for her. Of course she finds Simon instead.

Every time I visit the Salisburys, the candle is burning brightly. I know it does. I know this means that Lucy should be alive and I am happy that it gives Lady Ruth, Lord Andrew and Jamie a source of comfort, but I can’t believe it also gives them reason to not get off their asses and search for Lucy.

I have brought up the idea a couple of times, but I always get beaten down by a “But the candle!” response. I don’t give a rat’s ass about that candle. I want my friend back.

Lucy used to write.

Lucy said she had a child.

I am already so happy to hear that she’s ran away from Davy’s grip and that it pisses Davy off (If Lord Andrew won’t duel Davy, I will!), but why am I the only one who sees that we need to be proactive, instead of waiting for a possible solution?

Luckily, Martin agrees with me. Sort of. Mostly. He agrees with the family that if Lucy doesn’t want to be found, we should respect that, but he also knows that I cannot wait any longer. We spend days working out a perfect tracking spell. I will find Lucy Salisbury, even if I have to travel through the world.

This isn’t an actual duo, though. There’s a third member of this club, but since I haven’t written anything about Simon getting adopted by Normals yet, it’s not a patient.

Patient no. 8 is your first returning patient. It’s Hold on to that feeling, the Glee/CO crossover. I put it on the backburner for now, but the fic is still in the hospital ward! For the ones unaware, Baz has replaced Jeremiah as Blaine’s season 2 crush. Blaz OTP 4evah!

Okay, Blaine needs to pull himself together. He must make sure that he’s not making excuses for himself to give himself hope. But can you blame Blaine? A stray hair has fallen on Baz’s face and Baz puts it behind his ear. Blaine imagines him doing that. He lets out a happy sigh.

“Seriously?” Simon rolls his eyes, “Don’t gag after Baz when Kurt’s right there. Literally. He’s standing next to Baz.”

Blaine’s head jerks toward Simon.

“Kurt?” he laughs, “No, we’re just friends.”

“Sure,” Simon says and he winks. Blaine wants to protest some more, but no words come out of his mouth and Simon leaves.

Patient no. 9 is another returning patient. It’s probably my oldest Snowbaz WIP (which isn’t saying much, it’s from begin 2021). Simon died in the White Chapel. Baz lives his immortal life, living for the moments that he gets to see Simon, which happen every 20 years when the Veil has lifted. Here is part of Simon’s first Visit:

The Veil has lifted again. It’s weird to think that I’ve lived twenty years without Snow. I wonder if he’ll Visit me. I am not expecting my mother, since I have avenged her death, but I wonder what will keep Snow in the realm of living.

I get my answer the second day of the Veil being lifted.

I’m sitting in my office, in my small cottage, when I hear an exasperated: “Damn, Baz, you live like this?”

And we end this tour with something no one asked for, namely a Legend of Zelda fic. I played A Lonk to the Ponk (A Link to the Past) and I’m currently playing Lonk’s Awonkadonk DX (Link’s Awakening DX), but I already know how that game ends. Patient no. 10 is Zelda reacting to Link coming back from his trip to Koholint island.

“I’m here, Link,” Zelda puts her hand on his.

“Marin?” he asks.

Zelda quickly looks around the room. Link’s uncle, Sahasrahla and the soldier don’t seem to recognise the name.

“No, Link, it’s me. Zelda.”

“Marin, I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry,” Link cries out and his grip on Zelda’s arm tightens. It hurts, but Zelda bites through it. Link’s clearly distressed about something.

“Zelda!” Zelda uses her free hand to point towards her, “Who- Who’s Marin, Link?”

That’s it for today. And these are all the WIPs that I have written, because a Klaine story with dog bakery owner!Blaine and dog party planner!Kurt is sitting in the waiting room. I wanna use the words from the Klaine Spring Fling for that, but I haven’t had the time to check them out. An autistic Jack Zimmermann fic is also waiting to be admitted. And a story where I just play around with my Glee OCs in Dutch too. (Man, I’m really exhausting this hospital metaphor.)

Whether you read all of this (wow!), or whether you only read some of it, I hope you enjoyed!

#also i spent too much time on making that special banner #and it doesn't even look that good #anyway most of this is co fics am i surprised? no #to the people i'm tagging for the first time i'm sorry this is your introduction to my madness #wip wednesday #tagged in #YES I ADMIT I ALREADY HAD THIS DRAFTED CAUSE IT'S A LOT

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spoiltizzy · 2 years ago

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izzy’s prone to stress-eating.

the thing is, he’s never had access to all that much food to do it with. he used to eat peoples barely-edible leftovers, crunch up chicken bones and orange peels, mouldy bread. because it was the only way to satisfy the urge that wasn’t a waste. that didn’t disrupt the balance of the ship by fucking up the rations.

only bonnet’s back and they’ve realised with blackbeard’s flag making everyone surrender on sight, they don’t need to spend money on powder. or rum, they’re a dry ship now and izzy’s never heard of anything so stupid. and everything extra is being diverted into better food. more food.

so for the first time in his life, izzy just lets himself lose control. he’s never eaten this much, it hurts to breathe, he feels like he’s about to fall asleep, almost like he’s half drunk. his pants are too tight. he didn’t know it was possible to be so full your belly was visibly swollen with it, rounded out, but here he is.

when edward finds him surrounded by plates and bowls, with sticky fingers and frosting in his goatee, he grins, cause he knows how izzy is, and he knows exactly what izzy’s done to himself. and it’s adorable.

izzy pants and frowns. his belly hurts, so he gives ed the dirtiest look he can muster this pained in response to the stupid giggle.

“aw, iz. what’s wrong?”

izzy fixes ed with a with a good bitter glare, locks eyes with him, and burps pointedly. as if to say ‘fuck you, what do you think happened?’

so edward calls him a right little glutton and offers stede to give him a belly rub—“he’s great at it, when you’ve stuffed yourself stupid. i would know”—and naturally izzy tells him to get fucked.

ed laughs all the way out of the room, and just before he goes, turns ‘round and says “hope you won’t make a habit of this, iz” in that tone which izzy has learnt means he actually wants the exact opposite.

well, fuck. izzy wants to please his captain, doesn’t he? ‘s a good thing leather stretches when you get it hot and wet.

#vin's belly writing

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greetthedawn · 5 years ago

Link

AN:

I set out with the intention to write 6 chapters over 6 weeks. It turned into 16 chapters over 6 years.

I got Black Flag on my 17th birthday, and now at 23 it remains my favorite story, full stop. I'm ready to move onto other projects, but I know I'll come back to these characters in time. Never at this length or with this attention to detail, probably, but I'm pleased with what I've accomplished here.

At the risk of sounding Oscars speech-y, I want to thank you all for giving this story the support that kept me coming back to it time and time again. I'd also like to thank my college roomie who has been beta-reading and cheer-leading for me these past two years. I never would have finished this story in a vacuum.

I hope you enjoy this last chapter of Come With Me Now!

___________________________________________________

So give me hope in the darkness that I will see the light

‘cause oh that gave me such a fright

but I will hold as long as you like

just promise me we’ll be all right

___________________________________________________

Edward's final act as governor of his own little cove was to finally affix a proper headstone to his late wife's false grave.

He had delayed the task longer than he had originally intended when he had buried the box of her letters just over a year earlier. This was in part because he had grown rather fond of the grave marker Mary had fashioned from an old stool seat. The carvings had held up quite well in that time and it had individuality to it. The time had come, however, to leave Caroline with a memorial that would last in the absence of his care.

The date was October 1723. Edward and Mary had tied up their loose threads in the West Indies. The Assassins had finished shifting their base of operations to Great Inagua. There were no longer any pressing matters keeping them tied to the Americas, and their agreed-upon year had come to an end. The day had come to sail for England.

Edward had truly pushed off this task until the last available moment. Their crew – what men who had chosen to leave with them – were at the docks preparing the Jackdaw for the departure. Mary was in the manor giving each room a last comb-over to ensure they hadn't forgotten any necessary or treasured belongings in their packing. Meanwhile, Kenway was elbow-deep in the dirt with a trowel.

When the hole was reasonably deep enough to hold it firm, Edward shifted the tablet stone away from the tree where it had been propped up and lowered the bottom third into the earth. With a huff, he sat back on his knees to admire his work.

He reached out to brush his fingers across the engraving and muttered, "Two years, I promised you. It turned into eleven, but I'm leaving now. I'm coming back, and I'll come to visit you when I get there. That's a promise I'll keep. I do that these days… I'll find your real resting place, and I'll sit with you whenever I'm in Bristol, just as I have here beneath this tree the past year." He pulled his fingers back from the lines that traced out her name. "I'll see you so soon."

When he had finished repacking the earth around the new headstone, he rose, dusted himself off, and tucked the stool seat under his arm. He made for the house, taking in his lovely garden for the last time as he went. He was satisfied, on Ah Tabai's word, that the false grave would remain in place for as long as the Brotherhood held the cove.

He entered the main hall of the manor and was struck, as he always was, by the grandeur. His eyes fell over every painting and trinket he and his men had won on their travels and brought back there to adorn the walls of their base with. Every trophy, every scuff on the woodwork, every empty bottle told a story of a sailor truly living. He had built something out of this room, something he was proud of. Each of his finest deeds had come together in some way to scaffold what this cove had become.

Beyond the memories he shared with his crew in that house, it had been the cradle where his relationship with Mary had found its legs. She had been at his side when they'd taken the cove, had led him to the manor through the tunnel she'd found in its bowels. It had been in the office where she'd first urged him to the aid of the Assassins, at the docks where she'd invited him to Tulum, and on the patio where they'd finally torn down their defenses and begun to stitch their hearts into one.

He imagined, perhaps, that giving over guardianship of this cove and all its memories to his Assassin brothers would be a small glimpse of what he might one day feel when Jennifer was grown and married and starting a new life with a partner of her own. I cared for her. I watched her grow. I gave her what I had, and she turned it into something greater than myself. She has been my life's great joy, and now I trust you to treasure her the same.

He gave a bittersweet sigh, trailing his fingers over the rough, paint-chipped grain of the back of his usual chair at the head of the long banquet table. He allowed himself five long breaths to imprint the room in his mind's eye. Then, he left through the door opposite the one he had come in.

His heart smiled when his eyes fell on his wife. Mary sat at a small, round table in the sunshine just outside the door. On its surface rested two cups, a bottle of rum, and the journal that held her research and communications on Precursor artifacts. Her hair was tied up in her disguise as James Kidd, but she held herself as Mary. She had an easy set to her shoulders and mouth that told him she was relaxed, present in the moment, unconcerned about who was looking or how she was perceived.

"You didn't nearly forget that was locked in my desk, did you?" he asked, pulling out a chair for himself and gesturing to her notebook.

She offered him a warm smile and poured a drink into the empty cup, sliding it across the table. "I rather had a mind to keep it under lock and key 'til we were ready to sail." She shrugged. "It's too valuable to leave unattended on deck. It's a good job it didn't slip my mind though." She nodded toward the wooden grave marker he'd leaned against the leg of the table. "You bringing that along?" Her tone was amused.

He nodded with a humble grin. "I found it strangely difficult to part with," he answered around the rim of his cup. "Much like this here cove." He gestured generally with his gaze at the grandeur of their surroundings. He imagined their accommodations in London, once they'd settled, would be spectacular. There, however, in Great Inagua, he was a king, and a beloved one at that. He wondered if his heart would ever be graced by that feeling again, to be a leader among men alike in mind and purpose. He hoped he would, in some capacity or another. For all he knew though, he was leaving it behind on the docks.

Mary thumbed the handle of her mug thoughtfully. "I feel like I'm parting with Nassau all over again, though I didn't know that's what I was doing the last time I was there. I didn't know that was a final goodbye, the way I do now."

Edward nodded in mournful agreement. "I think I did. When Vane and I broke through that blockade with his fireship, there was something final about it. Perhaps I might return to the island, I had thought at the time, but our Republic, the community we had built with Thatch and Hornigold and all the rest, that had died the very day Rogers brought the King's Navy to our shores."

She reached across the table to give a reassuring touch to his hand that was picking at the grain of the wood. "At least we know this community here will stand long after we've left it to our stern."

He gripped her hand tightly in return and cast his gaze out over the valley below. From where he sat, he could just barely see the crosstrees of the Jackdaw and the rooftops of the trim shanties and huts of the village. The air buzzed with life and opportunity. The morning was late, and the sun shone high over the liveliness of his dominion. Its warmth was reflected in the pride he carried in his heart; no longer pride for who he was, but rather for what he had helped create.

A short distance down the patio, Assassins and pirates drank together at a large table by the banister. Smiles and friendly jests seemed to waft among them like a gentle breeze. For an endless moment, the scene shifted in Edward's eyes to one he had always dreamed of making a reality, but which had never borne fruit: his fellow devils of the sea, all gathered amicably at his manor, sharing a bottle with not a care in mind.

He saw Stede Bonnet, all draped in merchant's finery and smiles. The portly old chap had carried such a heart for adventure and contempt for domesticity, though perhaps piracy had not been the optimal way for him to explore those sentiments. Such a kind-hearted man had not deserved to meet his maker at the hangman's noose. Edward prayed, wherever his widow and children were, that they were well and remembered Stede fondly.

At Bonnet's side sat Vane. As brash and uncorked as he'd always been, Edward had truly liked Charles and counted him as a friend. The man had had a clever eye for mischief and malfeasance that he expected would not find its parallel in their lifetimes. That was how he wanted to remember Vane, and that was how he envisioned him at that table. His eventual madness and betrayal were long forgiven and forgotten.

The counterbalance to Vane's cockiness that had thrown Edward's life expertly askew was Jack Rackham's wildness. A true beast with a bottle, he'd been, and there was little love lost between them. So many evils of past years had been set in motion by that catalyst of a man. Edward could forgive him for all but that which had cost Anne and Mary so dearly. That grudge was not yet ready to die. Despite it all, Calico Jack had been an influential figure in Nassau and Kenway's youth all the same, and they'd shared more than a few jovial pints in the golden days of their pirate republic. He appeared at the table in Edward's mind's eye with the rest, his cheek propped on his fist and a tipsy, peaceful grin on his face.

His feelings about Hornigold, seated across the table, were perhaps the most complicated he held for any of his old friends. None of the men he'd killed before or since had cursed him with as many sleepless nights. He respected Ben, truly, in spite of how things had ended up. The mentor to his mentor, he'd been a man of true esteem and poise. He'd always been searching for something bigger, something more meaningful than even Nassau could provide. They'd had that in common. Regrettably, however, Hornigold had found it in the Templars. Edward knew his friend believed he'd found the answer to poverty, disease, oppression, all of it, and that Torres had held the key to prosperity for every man. Perhaps there was some kernel, some seed of goodness to the world their Order sought to bring forth, but Kenway was equally convinced that no mortal man could hold such a powerful key and not be corrupted by it. It was that corruption that had led Benjamin to his end on Edward's blade, but as the Assassin reflected on the days the old man had spent carefully training him to command the respect of his crew and fear of his victims, he knew he would only remember Hornigold in fond terms.

At Ben's side, he pictured Anne. Sweet, sweet Anne, with flowers in her hair and a confidence in her manner that the most lush and arrogant man in their ranks could never hope to rival. She'd been a perplexing blend of crass and elegant that had brought joy to all who were blessed to have known her. In truth, her death had rattled him to his core because he had truly thought her invincible against all the particular evils these islands had to bear. She'd been an angel in a hellhole and had not earned her fate. Her loss had been the final, great failing of Edward's greed and hubris. If he was cursed to live in a world where her absence echoed so loudly, he would do his very best to honor her with his life.

Bernard Kenway had been an outstanding father, as they come, but Edward had been a less than exemplary son. For the boy that he had been when he'd reached the West Indies, however, Thatch had been the father he'd needed. He saw him then, sitting at the head of the table where he belonged, just as he had sat at the head of Nassau. Edward still felt his absence in every room of important people. When decisions were being made, plans being laid, he often found himself pausing to give space for the gruff words of wisdom that would never again come. Fuck this world and fuck its gold, Edward thought, remembering his mentor's final words. You were always a hero to your men, Thatch. He and everyone he'd known and loved in the past decade would be forgotten by history as scoundrels and traitors, he knew that, but Jenny and any siblings she might have would be raised on bedtime stories of Blackbeard, the most fearsome and admirable pirate who ever lived. If his descendants knew the name, that would be enough. Edward Thatch deserved a legacy.

Mary squeezed his hand lightly, jarring him out of his reverie. She gave him a sad, knowing smile. "The ghosts haunt you too, do they?"

He nodded, blinking against the stinging in his eyes. The men at the table morphed back into their brothers and crewmen. "In every tavern. At every party."

Her gaze was sorrowful and understanding. "Any place where men are drunk and merry." She raised her glass a little higher before bringing it to her lips, a small, private toast to those lost. "London society could never appreciate the pleasures of frivolity as they did."

He tapped his mug to hers. "Of the things we're leaving behind, I think I'll miss them most of all."

"You don't think they'll follow us to England?" Her tone was sad, but unsurprised.

"They belong here. If we'd died a handful of years back, we'd belong here too. Our memories will go where we do, but their spirits will remain in these jungles." He paused for a moment. "Perhaps one day we'll join them." He was almost hopeful they might.

Mary smirked. "If we live long enough to come back here, I doubt I'll want to live long enough to leave twice." She stood, pulling him to his feet by their linked hands. "But until then, we're needed a long way from here. Come on now. It's time we're off."

Edward picked up Caroline's makeshift headstone and Mary pocketed her not notebook. Leaving the bottle on the table behind, they descended the steps toward the gate that led to town. He stopped them there to turn back toward the manor for a final time. He pictured the ghosts at the table once more, imagining himself almost able to hear Anne's singsong voice and Thatch's wheezing laughter on the wind. It would have been a privilege to sail away with any one of them, but he was taking the one friend he truly had to have at his side. That would have to be enough for this lifetime.

He turned and kissed his wife, long and gentle. "The only place I'm needed is wherever you happen to be."

___________________________________________________

So lead me back

Turn south from that place

And close my eyes from my recent disgrace

‘Cause you know my call

We’ll share my all

Now children come

And they will hear me roar

___________________________________________________

A small crowd had gathered on the docks for their departure. Their crewmen were saying goodbye to their loved ones, having a last cup of rum with their friends, pleading with their favorite dancers to stay in their arms just a moment longer and cry a little when they left port. A number of them, Edward knew, had intent to return after a year or two, but none seemed to be able to resist the sentimentality and celebrity of such a departure.

He and Mary made a point to stop and shake the hand of each captain in their fleet as they pushed toward the Jackdaw. At the gangplank of their vessel, Ikal and Glenna were helping load the last crates of supplies. Glenna gave them polite smiles but moved out of their way without a word. It was as warm of farewell as Kenway had hoped to receive. Ikal, in contrast, passed off the crate in his arms to another sailor in order to address them. Edward placed the stool seat on top of it as the man passed him to board the ship, intending to collect it later once he had his crew settled on the open sea.

"I wouldn't worry about her, were I you," he said with a touch of affection and a smirk about his partner. "She bears you no ill will anymore, though I doubt your absence will be greatly noted."

"I would expect nothing more," Mary laughed. She pulled him into an amicable embrace. "I'm glad to part as friends, truly."

"I am, as well," he agreed, releasing her.

Edward offered his hand, which Ikal took without hesitation. "I can never repay you for the service you did our family in helping to find Jennifer."

Ikal smiled pleasantly. "No, I don't suppose you can." With a last nod to Mary, he followed Glenna down the docks.

Edward and Mary exchanged an amused glance and boarded their ship. He greatly doubted they'd ever hear from that pair again.

The deck was all a bustle of activity as final preparations were made for departure. Massey darted in front of them, doing his best to chase the black and white cat that hunted their rats down below deck where it would not get under foot. Jenny toddled over to them, awkwardly carrying the fluffy gray tabby that loved Mary so well. The animal was nearly as long as the girl was tall, and it hung limply with its forelegs stuck straight out ahead. Its expression was unsettled but it didn't make any effort to wriggle free of her grasp. Edward had never met such a tolerant animal, though he'd still rather have a dog. Cats might be better mousers on ships, but wouldn't do much in the way of protecting an estate, he expected.

"What a wonderful helper you are! Thank you for catching that kitty!" he praised his daughter. Mary scooped the cat up and Edward bundled Jenny into his arms.

"Uncle Muh-see not help!" she pointed out, clearly amused by her babysitter's lack of success. She was all smiles that morning.

"No, he's no help at all, is he?" he encouraged, nuzzling his nose against hers, making her scrunch up her face and giggle.

A frazzled Massey worked his way back toward them after securing the first cat below deck. Mary passed the other off to him and it leaned into his embrace eagerly. "I don't suppose you'd stay on as our governess when once we've established ourselves in England?" Mary chided warmly.

The lad gave a playful huff. "As it happens, I've secured employment already." The news clearly excited him. "Bell's sister was recently married to an horologist's son in the city, and the family was gracious enough to offer us positions at the shop. We'll mostly be running errands, delivering clocks and the like, but I'm hopeful the old man will teach us the trade one day." He cast their daughter an affectionate grin. "We'll cross paths at the London bureau though, I'm sure, and I imagine I'll call on you often. Any chance to see the little Lady Jenny." The girl clapped at the sound of her name. She reached out her arms for him and Edward passed her over.

"Well, we're glad you're coming with us all the same," Edward patted Massey on the back as he and Jenny made their way to the upper deck. The young sailor nodded to Adéwalé and Ah Tabai as they passed on the stairs.

"It's hard to believe you won't be here tomorrow," Adé greeted his old captain with a firm hug.

"I'm in as much disbelief about it as you are, mate," Edward breathed.

"Have you decided on a heading?" his friend asked.

"Bristol!" he declared. "I've got some business I need to settle there before I can truly begin my life anew. Once we've finished, we'll find somewhere to settle for good."

"If the wind ever carries you to England, you'll have a warm bed and a seat at our table," Mary assured him as they hugged as well. "You need only ask. Both of you."

"I do not think our kind would be welcomed in such a corner of the world," Ah Tabai sighed. "but there will always be a home for you and your family in these waters if you find yourselves dissatisfied with the stillness of high society."

She smiled warmly. "I doubt either of us will ever be truly still. We'll keep that close in mind, though." She turned to Adé again and procured the small notebook from her coat. She pressed it into his hands. "These are all the notes I have from my communications with our brothers in the colonies. I've written ahead for you, so they'll know of my departure by now. They're chasing some fascinating leads on Precursor sites at the moment. I expect you'll enjoy the work."

He took the notes with a grateful nod. "Perhaps we're due for a meeting, too. I would like to see more of the Americas before my days are done." He clasped Mary and Edward by the shoulders, like he had when marrying them. "My dear friends, you'll write when you've safely landed. Understood?"

They smiled and nodded, hugging him together once more.

Edward turned to Ah Tabai and they clasped forearms in farewell. "Mentor," he started. "I must thank you. You gave me a final chance to prove myself, and I hope I've done justice to the faith you placed in me."

Ah Tabai laughed and held up his hands. "I cannot accept your thanks. In truth, I had given up on you, Edward Kenway. It was Mary who forced my hand, and I cannot say I am sad to see that her instinct continues to prove fruitful." He bowed his head. "Safe travels. May you honor the Creed, and may it bring you honor." He left them then, and Adéwalé followed him off the ship.

Mary and Edward waved them off. "I must say, I'll dearly miss his gravitas," he laughed. She rolled her eyes with a small smile.

Around them, the bustle was beginning to quiet. Preparations were largely finished and those who were not leaving with them began to disembark. The two of them moved toward the starboard side so as not to stand in the way. Men said their fond goodbyes as they passed. Edward knew each by name and did his best to etch their faces into his memory. He glanced over at Mary and could see by the set of her face that the weight of their departure was setting in for her.

Her hand went to her belt, settling on the ruby hilt of the dagger he'd gifted her so long ago, Venganza. Revenge. She pulled it free, balancing the weight between her palms, and looked at him. After a quiet moment, she said, "I don't need this anymore…" The words lingered on her tongue, like she was coming to grips with them in that very moment.

He laid his hand over hers. The steel between their fingers chilled his skin. "Then don't bring it with you."

She nodded and pulled back. Her fingers wrapped naturally around the well-worn leather grip and she paused, indulging in the sensation of its weight in her hand for a moment. Then she turned on her heel and pitched the dagger over the side of the ship, far out into cove. It sliced quietly through the gentle waves and sank, taking pains of the past along with it.

He set a hand on her shoulder and she sighed, seeming to release a weight off her heart. She looked back at him and there was new light in her eyes. "I'm ready now."

He smiled and led the way to the helm.

Jenny had settled to the right of the wheel with a toy. Looking at her then, Edward could scarcely believe he'd ever worried he might not love her. She had so much Mary in her, and a spirit uniquely her own. Every small thing she did or said was a marvel to him.

He was, for a moment, plagued by self-doubt, as he was more occasionally than he would have liked. The Atlantic crossing was not an easy journey. The life that waited for them on the other side was hardly safe, either. His mind went back to his argument with Mary on the evening of their marriage. A choice, he reminded himself, that was their agreement. In spite of his concerns, he could never quite bring himself to feel guilty for taking her away from the safety of the family that had once adopted her. He knew that, had she stayed with them and grown up as Maria Reyes, she would have known nothing but the easy and proper life he wished for her. A small part of him did mourn that loss for her. At his core, though, he must admit that he was still too selfish to truly regret taking it away from her. She belonged with her mother, and with him. In that sense, paired against that alternative, a choice was a blessing. A choice was enough. He couldn't wait to see what she would someday do with it.

"Captain!" Bell called, interrupting Edward's thoughts. The young sailor came to join them, Massey on his tail. "The men are ready to depart. Would you like to take the helm today, or shall I?"

Edward waved him off. "If this is the last time we'll steer the Jack out of this port, I would prefer to do it myself."

"You two go help at the mainmast," Mary suggested. 'We'll handle things up here.

"As you command, Master Kidd," Bell nodded. The set of his mouth was eager, excited. "We'll wait for your call." The two lads descended to their posts.

Edward huffed and tentatively curled his fingers around the underside of one handle on the wheel. He glanced down to his right palm and the long, white scar that ran across the skin there. It was the one Mary had given him when he had attacked her in his desperate panic at the Assassin graveyard, thinking her a ghost. The memory seemed so far away, though the mark was among the more recent that adorned his body. He pulled his gaze away from the thin, pale line and onto his wife at his side as she lifted their daughter to her hip. Jenny grabbed at the beads in Mary's hair – twins to those he still wore on his necklace – making her smile and shake her head to toss them around for the toddler's amusement. She noticed his stare as she did so and paused, giving him a puzzled look. He smiled back at her and touched his hand to her shoulder in their familiar gesture of trust and reassurance.

"I'm ready now too."

With a grin, she clasped his shoulder in return and glanced out over the deck. "Ready, lads!" she called out. "Loose all! Let's catch the wind!"

___________________________________________________

And the ghosts that we knew will

Flicker from view

And we’ll live a long life

___________________________________________________

Song: Ghosts That We Knew - Mumford & Sons

#CWMN Full Chapters #kiddway #edward kenway #mary read #james kidd

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