#character tags are now a thing for my own reference purpose

[teakoodrawz]

" I'm a Psycho, loving it~ "

[kwanisms]

Kinktober 「10:09」 — k.seungmin

» stray kids menu | seungmin menu | kinktober masterlist «

➮ fallen angel!Seungmin × fem!Reader wc: 4.5k summary: His fall from grace had been due to his hard headedness and Seungmin’s status as a fallen one never really crossed his mind. At least until he met Y/N. He’d been dejected and grown disillusioned with life but upon meeting her, he started to see some meaning to life again. To put it simply -- Y/N made him feel alive. genres/themes/au: angst/fluff/smut; supernatural, horror, thriller; non idol au, monster idol au warnings: adult dialogue, female reader, supernatural and horror themes, mentions of: past bodily harm (seungmin had his wings literally cut off), not-so-high-speed collision of person on a bike with an angel (Y/N runs Seungmin over with a bicycle lol), one baseball reference (cause I couldn't help myself), past crime life/criminal activity (glosses over it but its there); sexual content (18+ mdni), see smut warnings under the cut! taglist has been moved to reblogs join my taglists! kinktober taglist is closed! Strikethrough means I cannot tag you.  MINORS WILL BE BLACKLISTED & BLOCKED. AGELESS BLOGS WILL ALSO BE BLOCKED.

a/n: i thought about revisiting vampire!Seungmin for kinktober but I changed my mind for fallen angel Seungmin. I like the direction I went with this and I tried to keep the wordy bits down so it wouldn't be too long. So far I've written a total of 45k for kinktober not including this piece so, words are wordin'. anyway, next piece is Yunho which I am very excited for so stick around! thank you for reading. if you liked this, pls consider reblogging so more people will see it and as always, this is a work of fiction and all characters are not reflective of their respective irl counterparts. for entertainment purposes only.

smut warnings: teratophilia (aka monsterfucking), impact play (f receiving; spanking, pussy slapping), begging, unprotected sex (use condoms! ):< ), oral (f receiving, m receiving), fingering (f receiving), use of pet names (hers: kitten, baby, angel; his: Minnie, sir), dom!Seungmin, sub!Reader, and that should be everything but if I missed some, let me know! kinks: Impact play + begging dialogue prompt: ❛❛ Oh no. Not until you beg. ❜❜

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Falling from heaven is not as graceful or as ethereal as one might think.

For Seungmin, it was painful, bloody, and nightmarish. The process is one no one could ever fathom. Being cast down from all you’ve known, thrown into a cruel, dark world with nothing and no one. The only thing more painful was having his wings removed. Even now, years since then, he could still feel the burn of the hot steel as it sliced through tendon and flesh.

When he first arrived on Earth, Seungmin had nothing. He had his name and his memories but a drive to survive and so he did, albeit not by the most legitimate of ways and he did fall into the wrong crowd but it was so much easier to climb the social ladder of the underworld than to try things the proper and legal way. After all, he didn’t even have a social security number, a line of credit, or even a last name.

Seungmin realized he was caught in the wrong crowd when the hideout he was in was raided. He barely managed to get away and broke into a convenience store to hide from the cops. He was confronted by the owner and instead of alerting the authorities to his location, the man took him in, giving him a place to live and a job.

It wasn’t much but it was something and it allowed Seungmin to start over. His old crew were all rounded up and seeing as no one knew who Seungmin actually was, they were never able to turn him in. He was safe. For now.

Seungmin ended up taking the last name of the man who took him in, a man who simply went by Mr. Kim, and came to regard him almost as a father figure. Mr. Kim owned a small convenience shop off the beaten path. Seungmin was given a room in the small apartment above the shop where Mr. Kim lived alone. 

His life had gone quiet but a sort of disquiet had settled over him, not knowing where he was going or what he was going to do with his life. He simply was going through the motions of life.

Until he met you.

You had come crashing into his life. Quite literally.

He’d been walking down the sidewalk on a particularly gray and gloomy day, running errands for Mr. Kim, when he heard a high pitched scream. It wasn’t a scream of terror or fear. It was more like a shriek of excitement. It was playful in nature.

Seungmin didn’t have time to even respond when he heard a voice screaming at him to move out of the way. He turned, finding someone on a pink bicycle hurtling towards him. “BRAKES! HIT THE BRAKES!” someone had cried but despite the brakes being squeezed, you still managed to crash into him.

It wasn’t like you were going all that fast, but it was enough to knock the wind out of him as you toppled off the bike onto him, pinning him to the sidewalk as the bike flipped over without your weight on it. You let out a groan, pushing yourself up and glancing towards the mangled heap that was your bike.

Seungmin stared up at you, blinking as he tried to process exactly what just happened.

“Oh my god,” you gasped. “I’m so sorry!” You quickly scrambled up, pulling him into a sitting position. You panicked, inspecting him all over, asking a plethora of questions. 

“What hurts?!” Nothing.

“Are you bleeding?” No.

“Did you hit your head?” Yes.

Your introduction to him was as violent as they come but his life completely turned around after meeting you. He finally had someone else to talk to. Someone he could spend time with outside of the convenience store and upon meeting you, Mr. Kim urged him to spend more time with you.

Your friendship grew, blossoming naturally over a short period of time and after knowing you for nearly a year, Seungmin couldn’t imagine his life without you.

You were vibrant, full of life, eccentric, and ecstatic about everything. You never seemed to have a bad day in the entire time Seungmin knew you and he found your optimism a refreshing new outlook that he started to adopt into his own life.

Of course, while you were very bright, bubbly, and vivacious, you were also extremely bratty. Seungmin often had to argue with you about things he thought he’d never have to argue with anyone about. Making sure you took medicine when you were sick was a chore and Seungmin came to realize you were only a brat because it pushed his buttons.

Especially today.

Mr. Kim had given him the day off and so he was at your place, a cute little studio apartment on the 14th floor of your building. It had an exposed brick exterior wall and floor to ceiling windows that spanned almost the entire wall. Outside the window was a fire escape where you had lots of plants as well as smaller potted plants sitting in the window. Your bed was sectioned off with a large cube storage unit and sheer curtains.

The living area was small and cozy with a flat screen television, a cream colored loveseat with lots of blankets and pillows. A coffee table that doubled as a dining table stood between the couch and the media center where you kept your gaming consoles and collection of games and movies.

The kitchen was also small. White cabinets hung on the walls where you kept your dishes. An island with a sink separated the kitchen from the living area and at the bar of the island stood three bar height chairs. Seungmin had arrived early, bringing food and drinks but they had long run out and you were whining at him to get more.

He sat on your couch, feet resting on the coffee table despite your insistence to remove them. You sat on the other cushion, next to him, wrapped up in your favorite blanket. Seungmin had arrived as you were opening your windows, saying it was a nice day out — it wasn’t, it was freezing — and that you and your plants needed the fresh air.

Despite insisting it was a nice day, you had immediately wrapped yourself in your blanket and curled up next to him on the couch, sapping the warmth from his body, not that he exactly minded. You had exhausted your movie library, picking the things you either hadn’t seen in a long time or at all which wasn’t much. 

Streaming services didn’t provide much of a difference in options so for the last hour, you’d been playing games on your phones, showing each other silly videos while enjoying the other’s presence. You’d finally grown bored of your game and were now pestering Seungmin into leaving to go get more snacks and drinks. 

“Why don’t we get food instead?” he asked as his little avatar died on screen and he shut the game off. “I think we need actual food, Y/N,” he added, locking the screen of his phone and turning his head to look at you. The urge to smile came over him because you looked sort of ridiculous wrapped up in your blanket so only your face was showing.

“But I don’t wanna!” you protested. “That means I have to get up.”

Seungmin rolled his eyes, throwing his head back against the back of the couch. “You’re so impossible,” he sighed before getting up with a groan. “Come on,” he said, holding his hand out. You shook your head, pulling your blanket tighter around you.

“Yah,” Seungmin said, giving you a playful but stern glare. “Get up,” he said, moving to stand in front of you, towering over your seated form. You shook your head wordlessly, staring up at him. He grabbed your blanket, tugging at it in an attempt to get you to listen. “No!” you squealed as he tried to pull the blanket harder. “You’re gonna rip it!”

Seungmin tugged harder. “Then let go so it doesn’t rip,” he countered. You glared at him. “It’s my blanket!” you reminded him. Seungmin tugged harder and you could have sworn you heard the material start to rip and so you let out a panicked whine and let go, allowing Seungmin to pull the blanket away.

“Alright,” he said, wading up the blanket and throwing it onto your bed. “Let’s go!”

You shivered, your once warm skin now exposed to the cool air filtering in from outside. “It’s cold!” you whined, curling in on yourself. Seungmin rolled his eyes and walked over. “Then get up and get changed,” he said, holding out his hand. You hesitated before taking his hand and then quickly tugging him towards you.

Unprepared, he lost his balance and fell onto the couch on top of you as you giggled, immediately hugging onto him like a koala. “So warm,” you murmured. Seungmin groaned trying to pull away from you but unsuccessfully. It wasn’t like you were all that strong, he just liked to indulge in some skinship with you from time to time.

“Okay,” Seungmin said. “You warm?” he asked. You nodded, smiling contentedly at him. “Good,” he said softly. “Now get up.” He tried again to pull away but you whined, holding onto him tighter so when he tried to get up, you moved with him.

“Y/N,” he scolded. “I’m not going to ask again. Get up.”

You looked up at him and he could see it before you even replied. A defiance in your eyes. 

“Make me.”

He didn’t know if it was because of your continuance to press his buttons mixed with the obvious tension between the two of you, but your resistance and disobedience made something in him snap. He quickly pulled your arms from around his neck, pinning you under him on the couch.

Your giggles died immediately as he leaned over you. Your eyes widened as you stared up at him. This was a side of him you hadn’t seen before nor had he planned on sharing but you really, really liked to push his buttons. 

Seungmin hesitated as he looked down at you, assessing whether or not he’d taken things too far but the look in your eyes, while being one of surprise, was also a look of eagerness and he could tell then that you wanted this as much as he did. 

He leaned in closer, testing your reaction, wondering if he should stop and when your eyes dipped down to look at his lips, he closed the distance, pressing his lips to yours for the first time. 

Your stomach fluttered as his lips moved against yours. It was entirely new but it felt completely right. Your lips parted at the same time, his tongue slipping into your mouth. You let out a soft moan, muffled by his mouth, as his thigh pressed against your cloth covered crotch.

Seungmin pulled away, lips ghosting over your ear. “Do that again,” he whispered, pressing his thigh against you again. You muffled your moan, biting into your bottom lip. Seungmin scoffed as he reached up, using his thumb to gently pull your lip from between your teeth. “You’re such a brat.”

You opened your mouth to respond and at that exact moment, he grinded his thigh against you, making you whimper. “It’s so much nicer when you listen to me,” he sighed, nuzzling into your neck. He let go of your wrists, moving his hands down to your sides.

“Are you still going to be a brat and fight me or are you gonna let me make you feel good?”

You whined in response as his hands cupped your chest over your shirt. “I take it that’s a yes?” he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice. You nodded eagerly. Seungmin let out a low chuckle, hands sliding down your stomach until he could curl his fingers under the waistband of your shorts.

“Then these need to come off,” he murmured, pulling them down slowly past your thighs as you lifted your hips. He discarded them on the floor behind the couch, eyes drinking in your naked lower half. “Lace?” he asked, looking up from the crimson material to meet your gaze.

His eyes were dark, pupils blown as he moved his hands up your thighs towards your hips. “Be honest,” he said as he leaned over, pressing a kiss to your stomach. “Did you wear these for me?” You giggled as his tongue traced a line up your skin. “No,” you giggled. Seungmin pulled away with a slight frown.

“You mean you just wear these for no reason other than to wear them?” he asked, raising an eyebrow. You nodded silently, letting out a gasp when Seungmin delivered a sharp smack to the inside of your thigh. “Don’t lie to me,” he snapped.

“You don’t wear anything uncomfortable for long periods of time without a purpose,” he continued. “You told me so yourself.” A small smile spread across your face as you looked up at him, hands still resting by your head where he left them. “You always listen to everything I say?” you asked as his eyes wandered back down to the red material that barely covered anything.

“Yes,” he said simply, moving his hands up your sides, pushing the hem of your shirt up to just under your breast. He met your gaze once more. “Are you wearing a matching set?” he asked, tilting his head like a curious puppy. You giggled, shaking your head. His eyes narrowed. “If you’re lying to me, there will be consequences, you know that, right?” he asked. You nodded. “I know.”

Seungmin held your gaze as he pushed the shirt up over the swell of your breast, exposing the incriminating evidence of your red lace bralette. He made a tsk sound as his eyes fell to your chest, taking in the sight of the red contrasting with your skin, your nipples visible through the sheer material. He looked back up to meet your gaze. “You lied to me, again,” he muttered.

You watched with excited eyes as he sat back on his heels, looking down at you. “I told you there would be consequences,” he added. “I know,” you said softly. Seungmin sighed as he shifted on the couch so he was sitting before holding out a hand for you to take. “Are you going to be good and take your punishment or am I going to have to force you?”

You took his hand, allowing him to pull you up and over his lap so you were lying on your stomach. You felt one of his hands move to your ass, fingers skimming over the lace as he inspected the sight. His other arm held you down. One of his fingers slid under the material of your panties, sliding it over to expose your cheek.

“I want you to count,” he said softly as his hand returned to your bare cheek. “How many?” you asked, glancing over your shoulder. Seungmin looked up from your ass, meeting your eyes with his. He had a dark look in them, something that both excited and sent a chill down your spine.

“Until I say so.”

By the time Seungmin finally did tell you to stop counting, your ass was sore. The skin burned and your body was aching, as was your cunt. You needed release and you were practically dripping. “Seungmin,” you whined. “I need release.”

Seungmin scoffed, moving his hand to pull your panties aside while he traced your folds with two fingers, spreading them slowly. The cool air against your hot cunt felt both foreign but oddly wonderful. “So needy,” Seungmin murmured, sliding the tips of his fingers between your lips, gathering your wetness before slowly pushing them into your hole.

You let out a pornographic moan, the sound resonating around the apartment. Seungmin felt his cock twitch in his pants, straining against the material of his underwear and aching to be freed. ‘Not yet,’ he told himself. ‘Not until Y/N proves she can behave.’ 

You moaned loudly as he pumped his fingers in and out of your sopping cunt, lightly scissoring them and curling them against your walls. “Seungmin. More,” you gasped, making him chuckle. “More?” he asked. “I have two fingers stuffed in you and that’s not enough?”

You shook your head as he sped up. He delivered a sharp smack to your sore ass. “Words, kitten,” he cooed. “N-no!” you stammered. “No you don’t want to use words?” he asked. “No!” you said quickly. “It’s not enough! I need more!” you clarified. Seungmin shook his head. “Such a greedy little baby.”

He obliged, giving you a third finger, opening you up to take his cock easily but he wasn’t about to give it to you that quickly. Your moans grew in pitch and volume as he fucked you with his fingers. He could feel you start to shake, your walls clenching rhythmically around him. “Don’t you fucking cum yet,” he growled, pulling his fingers from your hole, making you whine in protest.

“But Minnie!” you complained. He nudged you, signaling you to sit up. “Do you want me to fuck you here, on your couch, or over there,” he asked, jerking his thumb over his shoulder towards your bed. “Where I’m sure it’s much more comfortable.”

You grumbled softly as he got up, grabbing your hand and all but dragging you over to the bed, stepping up onto the small platform upon which your bed stood.

He turned your back towards the bed, moving his hands to quickly strip you of your shirt and bralette. “Sit,” he instructed but you didn’t listen, instead trying to pull at his clothes. He grabbed your hands, bringing your wrists together to hold with one hand and grabbing your chin with the other.

“If you don’t listen to me, I won’t let you cum at all, understand?” You nodded quickly and as soon as he let go, you sat on the bed, looking up at him. “Good, kitten,” he said, cupping your chin, moving his thumb to brush over your bottom lip. “I need you to do something for me,” he said, moving his hands to undo his buckle. “And then I promise I’ll make you feel really good”

You nodded, keeping your eyes locked on his as he unzipped his pants. “Do me a favor and put that mouth to good use, yeah?” he asked, pushing his jeans down past his hips. Your eyes roamed down his body, taking in the outline of his hard cock behind the dark blue color of his underwear. 

You could see it was straining against the fabric, begging to be freed. Your hands trembled slightly as you reached to pull the front of his boxer briefs down. Seungmin quickly grabbed your hands, stopping you. “Are you okay?” he asked softly, the dominant persona he’d taken on dissipating for a moment as he gave you a look of concern. You nodded, giving him a smile.

“Just nervous,” you whispered. He caressed your cheek gently. “You don’t have to be nervous,” he said softly. “It’s just me.” You nodded, swallowing thickly as you returned your attention to the task before you.

Your fingers snuck under the waistband of his underwear, pulling it down in one swift motion and freeing his cock. You stared at it in awe, saliva starting to pool in your mouth at the sight of it bobbing before you. Wrapping your fingers around the base of the shaft, you looked up at Seungmin for confirmation to keep going. He merely nodded, watching as your lips parted and you gave the tip of his cock a kitten lick. He let out a hiss but was unable to catch his breath as you immediately went back in, tongue swirling around his cockhead.

“Fuck,” he hissed, eyes fluttering shut as your mouth enveloped his cock, taking it as far as you could in one go. “You’ve done this before,” he groaned as you pulled back, cheeks hollowing as you sucked. Seungmin let out a sigh as you took him back into your mouth, the tip of his cock barely brushing the back of your throat.

“Keep going, baby,” he murmured, resting his hand on the back of your head, pulling you closer. You gagged as the head of his cock tried to push into your throat. “Shit,” he gasped as he let go and you pulled back, coughing. “Sorry,” he murmured. “We can stop if you’d — oh fuck!”

His words were cut off when you took his cock back into your mouth, keeping your hand firmly wrapped around the base as you started to bob your head, taking everything up until you hand. Seungmin let out a choked moan, throwing his head back as you continued to suck him off, now moving your hand as you pulled back.

You let his cock fall from your mouth, continuing to stroke him quickly. Too quickly. He had to stop you before he came. He didn’t want to cum on your face or chest or in your mouth. “S-st-stop,” he stammered, moving his hand to try and grab yours but missing. “Y/N,” he said, a little more firmly. “Baby, stop.” You finally looked up at him, hand stalling but his cock still firmly in your grasp.

“Did I do something wrong?” you asked as he pulled your hand off him and slowly knelt down at the edge of your bed. “No,” he murmured, pulling you into a kiss. “You were perfect. I just wasn’t ready to finish,” he added. “Lay back,” he instructed.

As you laid back against the soft material of your comforter, Seungmin took that opportunity to rid himself of his clothes. You started to scoot back towards the middle of the bed but he stopped you. “Here,” he said softly. “I want your ass hanging over the edge of the bed.”

You pouted at him. “But I’ll fall,” you protested. He shook his head as he knelt down. “Just trust me, angel. Do as I say or am I going to have to punish you again?” You shook your head, moving until your hips were hanging off the edge of the bed. You watched as he slipped your panties off before he shrugged your legs over his shoulders, his hands grabbing your hips and holding them in place as he licked his lips.

“Minnie,” you cooed, reaching down to comb your fingers through his dark hair. He looked up at you, his dark gaze meeting yours and making a fresh wave of arousal course through you. “Can’t you just fuck me?” you asked as sweetly as possible. Seungmin chuckled, shaking his head. “No,” he answered. You frowned at him. “Why not? You’ll find I’m more than ready to take it,” you answered.

Seungmin merely chuckled again. “No,” he answered again. “I want a taste first.” 

The words on the tip of your tongue died as you felt him spread your folds and his tongue run from your hole to your clit. The moment his tongue met the nub, he sucked on it, making your thighs involuntarily try to close around his head but he moved his hands, wrapping his arms around your thighs to hold them open and keeping you firmly in place.

You were left to the mercy of his tongue as his mouth ravaged your clit. One of your hands moved to grab the bedding by your head in a tight fist while the other combed through Seungmin’s hair, grabbing a handful of the locks. Each time he flicked his tongue, your body jerked and you cried out. 

“M-Minnie. M’gonna cum!”

Seungmin pulled back and you whined only to receive a slap to your pussy which made you gasp, thighs twitching. “You don’t cum until I say so, understand?” You nodded quickly, your orgasm slowly slipping away. Seungmin’s mouth returned, attacking your clit with quick flicks of his tongue until the sensation started to rise again, tension building in your stomach.

“Minnie, I’m close,” you warned him. “Hold it back,” he retorted. “Don’t make me punish you again.”

You bit your tongue, trying to will away the tension and the building orgasm. “I-I don’t think I can,” you sobbed. Seungmin pulled back, delivering another slap to your sex. “Such an impatient and greedy kitten,” he snapped. “Can’t even wait a minute more.”

“Just fuck me then,” you retorted. Seungmin scoffed, almost mockingly. “Oh no,” he said, landing another slap on your clit. “Not until you beg.” You whimpered. If that was all he needed, you could do that. “You should have just said so,” you gasped. “Please Seungmin. Please give me your cock. I want it. I need it.” 

“You need it, huh?” Seungmin asked, brushing his fingers over your clit languidly. He wasn’t trying to bring you to climax, simply giving you some friction while he listened to you. 

“How bad do you want it?”

“I want it so bad, please,” you sobbed. “I promise I’ll be good. I’ll do everything you say but please Minnie, please fuck me.” You needed him inside you so bad and you weren’t above begging if that’s what he wanted you to do. “One more time,” he cooed. “What do you want?”

“I want your cock, Seungmin. I want you to fuck me!” you snapped. Seungmin moved quickly, letting your legs fall back as he climbed over you. “Middle of the bed, on your hands and knees, now,” he growled. You scrambled to get up, moving into place and presenting yourself to him. He kneeled behind you, hands grabbing your ass and kneading.

“I’m going to fuck you how I want to,” he started as he leaned over your back, the tip of his cock brushing against the inside of your thigh. “If it’s too much for you, say ‘pitcher’s mound,’ understand?” he asked. You nodded. A smack rang out as he landed a slap to your ass over the same side he’d made sore earlier.

“Words, kitten. We use our words,” he snapped. “Yes, sir!” you gasped out, your backside burning. He gently ran his hand over the spot soothingly. “What do you say if you need me to stop?” he asked, leaning over your back and whispering in your ear. “Pitcher’s mound,” you replied softly. You felt him press a tender kiss to your shoulder. “Good,” he cooed.

You felt the tip of his cock press against your entrance and without any resistance, he pushed into you. Once the head was firmly lodged inside you, he snapped his hips, pulling you back to meet his thrust and filling you with one stroke.

You cried out in both pleasure and pain as he buried his cock to the hilt inside you. Seungmin still, thumbs rubbing circular patterns into your skin as he held your hips. He waited for the spasming of your walls to cease before he pulled back, giving you a shallow thrust which made you moan softly.

“Any pain?” he asked quietly. “No,” you replied, shaking your head. “Good,” Seungmin said simply, tightening his hold on your hips. “Remember your safeword,” he reminded you. 

“Cause I’m not stopping until you’re screaming.”

©️ kwanisms 2024 | all works on this blog are protected under copyright. Do not repost, continue, or translate my works. All graphics made by me.

[electrozeistyking]

Hi, I really like making little personalized references for characters I like when I get into things! I do this to figure out how I wanna draw them, and is a recent-ish development that I haven’t done a lot, but I really like character design and thinking about them! So I made some for Siffrin. How fun!

DO NOTE THAT THIS WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS FOR LATER PARTS OF THE GAME. I did obviously tag it as such for the sake of others and it will be further down, but I figured I’d still warn you just in case. <:3

Now, without further ado, here’s “reference one!”

I’m personally gonna be using this in conjunction with Siffrin’s actual reference sheet (which I refer to as “notes” in mine!!) to make sure he look his best! I also wanted to make sure they’re “in line with canon,” yet still in my style and in a way I can be proud of.

Which isn’t that hard, since I’m usually always proud of my own work. I just like my own stuff. <:3

Due to the brim of his hat allegedly being bean-shaped (teehee), I thought it’d be fun if I carried that over to his torso/body. It’s not noticeable with a cloak in the way, nor when Siffrin’s standing straight up. Basically, the bean shape would only be revealed in certain poses.

(Coming up with that also made me say “Whoops! All beans!” out loud about Siffrin, btw.)

Additionally, I like giving characters is their own set of fangs. One character I draw has a gap between them and the rest of their teeth, one has prominent ones to make them more cat like on purpose — and for Siffrin, I decided to give them rounded ones.

I usually make fangs razor sharp, because I really like big ol chompers like that, so them being round is definitely a very unique thing for Siffrin to have. Well, at least at first.

I’m also a really big fan of certain design elements sticking around after something wild happens to characters… which brings us to “reference two.”

Well, if you’re not gonna be able to find any good references for this version of Siffrin, you might as well make your own, right??

The major thing I wanted to do with this Siffrin was to have him still feel like himself, but also give him somewhat of a unique design in comparison — by playing up elements I noticed during this scene.

Making this Siffrin feel as giant as they are was important to me. I went ahead and made their hat, face, hair and cloak longer. Made their shoulders broader, had them hunch over so they’d practically loom over everyone. Trying to appear smaller while still being an obstacle. Wanting everyone to stay here. Wanting their family.

I noticed that a lot of Siffrin’s hair seemed a lot more angular here, so I felt it crucial to use those shapes, but going a couple steps further and using them for his face as well… primarily his mouth and chin, of course. Which meant replacing those rounded fangs I gave him with a full set of sharper ones.

(I also wanted them to look like they’re too big for Siffrin’s mouth, so two of them — well, four? — will always peek out/fall past their lower lip. It’s like their teeth are not a comfortable fit whatsoever and it makes talking feel weird, but they manage.)

(They stick around after Siffrin “reverts back” or whatever we’re calling it. He never gets his round fangs back, but at least the ones he has now serve as a reminder that he got to the end. Might take some getting used to, though.)

(I also tried making their brows look a bit more angular? Can’t tell if they really come across that way.)

ANYWAY, I THINK I SHOULD STOP HAHAHA. I could go on and on all day, but I got other things to do and I think I’ve already explained enough! Just know that I get a kick out of putting love and care into character thoughts and designs. <:3

[itsabouttimex2]

Sooooo... How do you feel about the season 5?

In short? Mid. 6-6.5/10.

In long…?

A severely rushed season that bit off way more than it could chew. A season that had the characters pull powers from their asses more frequently than ever before. A season that had shitty “dramatic” moments for the sake of having dramatic moments. A season that lampshades issues instead of fixing them. A season with so, so much wasted potential.

It basically boils down: everything they wanted to do COULD have been good, but they just didn’t have the time.

I’ll go into some varied details below. I’d also like to make clear- I’ll be tagging all of my Season Five Posts with “Lego Monkie Kid Season 5” and “LMK Spoilers” until August 1st. Then the gloves are coming off and I’ll stop tagging them.

(I still liked the season, for what it’s worth- and you can watch it in full here! I’ve got some drafts and bots cooking as we speak!)

This was a cute send-off to Flying Bark! It was nice of them to acknowledge, in some way, everything that those dears did for the show- because Lego Monkie Kid would NOT be where it is without them.

Significantly less cute-

The absolute kick in the fucking face that constantly superimposing old footage over newer, worse footage is.

You don’t want us to be constantly reminded of the animation downgrade- that’s the literal last thing that anyone wants. Why would you constantly remind us that it used to be better?

What the fuck does this accomplish? Okay, let’s make comparisons, cause that’s the only thing that can result from pulling this shit-

This is what happens when you constantly reference the older, superior content.

PEOPLE CONSTANTLY NOTICE THAT YOUR CONTENT IS WORSE.

Also, why is it so saturated? How do you make a Lego Minifigure look like he has jaundice?

It’s just a bad look to constantly reference content you can’t live up to. I’m hoping they’ll just recreate old content instead of sloppily pasting it into the background of the show- it’ll be less jarring.

Alright, what else…

———

Uh, I fucking called it! Nuwa is not MK’s “loving though bereft mommy”! Which I had been guessing ever since the Celestial Pagoda leaked, actually-

I mean, come on. He’s literally stealing the stones away from her as she reaches to take them back.

And the Season confirmed it! Nuwa might’ve be been MK’s creator, but she certainly wasn’t his momma.

And you know how the series subtlety clues you in to how little she cares about her “son”?

Nuwa didn’t give him a name. She had hundreds, maybe thousands of years to think on it- but no. No name.

We mortals name our pets, our vehicles, our art. We love them enough to bestow monikers.

Nuwa didn’t even bother to name her own sapient mortal creation.

But when he makes a move against her, does something she doesn’t want, takes destiny into his own hands?

She calls out to him with one word- not “son”. Not “MK”.

Nuwa angrily calls him “mortal”.

Becuase that’s all he ever was to her, really. A mortal pawn. A handmade puppet.

Someone designed to fulfill a sacrifice. Even though her intentions were good, MK’s sole purpose by her hand was to shoulder the weight of the world like a good little hero.

So… a potential villain in the making?

———

Lampshading the fact that you’re doing the “macguffin hunt” again does not excuse doing the “macguffin hunt” again.

Lampshading the “apocalypse after apocalypse” plots doesn’t make them any less exhausting.

Lampshading Macaque’s lack of narrative consequences does not undo the awkward and weak redemption arc.

———

They changed Mei “no longer wielding” the Samadhi fire, I guess.

Ignore that she never displayed a hint of concern or sorrow over “losing it” because now she’s sad and worried (after backlash from the fans over her losing it) about losing it.

Like, Subodhi knows so much about the world and the universe that he’s aware of his existence in the ink scroll- but he gets Mei not having an interplanetary level threat inside her wrong?

I smell a retcon.

———

Macaque’s redemption arc is still shit. I’ve got a whole rant queued to release soon, actually- I imagine it might be the final time I comment on his arc until Season Six.

To put it short- Macaque still falls upwards into redemption. No pushback or difficulty or introspection. He’s just a magically better person without any onscreen development to make the change believable.

But they reference this at one point?

Sun Wukong points out that Macaque escapes the trial without any punishment, and is just allowed to mope in place of an actual consequence.

So maaaaaayybeeeee they’ll do something in Season Six? I’ve lost all faith that he’ll ever be an interesting character again, though.

He’s essentially just “brooding rival #80058”. Instead of being a character that calls back to Seasons 1-3, from 4 onwards he’s just a brand new dude who totally didn’t commit any atrocities with a smile on his face- and he’s a worse and more boring character for it.

———

If I haven’t misjudged the intent, I think Monkie Kid will be going back to being an episodic series for the extent of Season Six. Again, they lampshade the “apocalypse after apocalypse” thing, yeah?

And now they have a perfect formula- find someone who’s having trouble with their new power, and help them.

And we might see Bai He again???

Let’s hope for a good breather season!

———

Rest in piss Li Jing their asses did NOT cook with you sorry papa

You could’ve been interesting in the writers didn’t try to pull a “loving father” bait and switch after you got like four scenes of being a raw jackass

If they were going to deviate from the source material and make you a good dad couldn’t it have just been:

“Li Jing, you were not invited to the trial!”

“STF that monkey son of a bitch hurt my baby boy-“

“Father I’m 300-“

“Hush son, let daddy take care of this- that monkey son of a bitch hurt my baby boy when he stole the Samadhi fire map!”

Maybe next season you’ll get to be interesting, hun.

(I’m still writing for Lotusfam though)

———

Drama for the sake of drama. 0/10 scene. Could’ve just had the interruption come AFTER they held hands, but no. Gotta drag shit out for the shippers or whatever. There was no reason to prolong this reunion.

I’m really not a fan of the “just wait another season for it”, mentality. Stop stretching shit out. You had a chance to do something sweet and heartwarming, and chose not to for the sake of trying to drag a conclusion out.

Ugh.

———

Characters just pull powers out of their ass for the sake of forcing dramatic scenes.

THESE ARE DOGSHIT SCENES

THIS MAKES NO FUCKING SENSE. THIS IS DONE SOLELY FOR THE SALE OF “MUH DRAMATIC FINALE” AND IS BAD

ITS BAD WRITING TO HAVE CHARACTERS PULL NEW MAGICAL POWERS OUT OF THEIR ASSES FOR THE SAKE OF DRAMA

IF WUKONG HAD THIS POWER FROM THE START HE SHOULD’VE USED IT AGAINST HIS FUCKING LETHAL ENEMIES AND NOT SAVED IT FOR HIS PRECIOUS STUDENT

MK NEVER LEARNED TO USE THE FILLET SPELL. THE WRITERS PULLED IT OUT OF THEIR ASS TO FORCE DRAMA BY HAVING MK TORTURE HIS MENTOR LONGER THAN EVEN THEIR ACTING ENEMY LI JING DID WITH A CIRCLET THAT IS CANONICALLY TIGHTER THAN HIS FIRST

WE SEE HOW FAST HE IS WHEN HE FIGHTS THE AZURE LION

MK CAN MOVE FASTER THAN WUKONG

HE COULD’VE BEATEN HIM THERE IN AN EQUALLY CLIMATIC RACE

I FEEL NOTHING WHEN I WATCH THIS BECAUSE IT IS FORCED DRAMA FOR THE SAKE OF DRAMA

—————————————————

💚💚💚

[azrielwingspan]

THE STRINGS OF FATE (AZRIEL X READER)

A/N: I've wanted to write a series based on a dark , mystery themed vibe for so long and I thought this would be a good way to start it off. I get to write about my favourite characters and transform it into something a bit darker and mystery fuelled. So I'm hoping you guys enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed imagining it.

!! The image below does not belong to the author !!

Genre: Suspense thriller, Romance

Summary : The Prophecy. A band of words that incited terror in people but you had long since learnt that the fear of the unknown strikes deeper.

The prophecy was just the beginning of the end.

Warnings : Mentions of violence

PROLOGUE

"You would be a fool to not involve your cousin, Rhysand." Amren said coldly for the umpteenth time that night. "There is a reason the prophecy refers to the both of you. Don't try to change the course of fate boy. Not even a Lord of the Night can cross the Mother."

"I would be a fool to lead her into the arms of a certain death. If ignoring a prophecy is what must be done to keep her safe, I will do it." Rhys was growing more agitated as the conversation turned south.

"Saving one girl is worth the lives of millions?"

Silence prevailed at Amren's question. The office in the River House enclosed a dark and gloomy atmosphere as if detecting the undertone of the conversation and the issue at hand. The faelights flickered casting deep shadows across the Fae and Illyrians that had gathered in the room.

Hands clenched on the table, Rhysand took in deep breaths appearing to fight an internal battle. He had too much to lose. Too many to fight for. What was the purpose of being the most powerful high lord the world had ever seen if he couldn't keep his own family safe? He was tired of losing people, tired of fighting, tired of wondering if tomorrow would be someone's last.

"I promised her that no harm would come to her as long as I live." He said softly, seeming to speak to himself. "I made sure she was safe from Amarantha, from Hybern and mostly from myself. If it were to become public knowledge that we are related, they will hunt her down. They will torture her, use her and kill her mercilessly."

Amren's eyes softened at the agony in his voice. "The world is a cruel place, Rhysand. We do not have say in the destiny that has been chosen for us. We must simply walk, trudge and crawl along the path."

He let out scornful laugh, running his hands through his hair agitatedly. "It has been especially cruel to us I think."

Feyre's eyes lined with tears at her mate's heartache. She'd known about the things he had done to keep his cousin far away even if it hurt him. To see him unravel now because of a Cauldron damned prophecy was distressing to watch.

"Rhys." Cassian spoke into the silence that had claimed the room yet again. "I promise you, I'll keep her safe. No matter what comes her way."

"So will I." Azriel stepped up, his shadows stirring over his shoulders.

"All of us will." Feyre declared, her hand coming to rest on her mates shoulder and giving it a gentle squeeze. Her touch seemed to relax Rhysand immediately, his shoulders drooping underneath her hand.

Placing his head in his hands, Rhysand took in a deep breath, the battle within his mind coming to a conclusion. Feyre's grip tightened lightly, giving him the energy to push through yet another decision that would haunt his dreams for the rest of his life.

"I'll go visit her myself. Explain the situation. The Prophecy. All of it. Whether she comes or not , is upto her." The others nodded in agreement.

"That is the least I can do for her. Give her a choice..... live or die."

A/N : Comment below if you want to be added to the tag list !

[hippiegoth97]

Rainbow in the Dark

Collage by me :)

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Description: A few months after Eddie's death, he's resurrected by Vecna and recruited to destroy you and the rest of the group. But you're able to get through to Eddie, breaking the spell with the power of your undying love for him. The two of you make up for lost time, and he vows to betray Vecna and help you save the world.

Content Warning 18+ Only, Minors DNI: smut, male reader, vampire!eddie munson, gay!eddie munson, gay!reader, character death (and resurrection), semi-graphic mentions of blood/gore/body parts/organs/other grisly things, vampirism, blood drinking LGBTQ references, oral sex, anal sex, lots of crying, angst

A/N: This story contains dialogue from Stranger Things season four for context within my story, some of which has been modified. The credit for said dialogue goes to the Stranger Things writers, the Duffer Brothers, and Netflix. I only use it for entertainment purposes, I do not own Stranger Things or any of its characters, and I do not profit from my stories.

Word Count: 14.6k

divider by @strangergraphics

Rainbow in the Dark

It's been a little over six months since you lost the big showdown against Vecna. Well, you know Nancy got him pretty good with her shotgun, and Robin molotoved his ass to a crisp. But in the end, it certainly feels like a loss. Vecna isn't actually dead, just severely injured, but you know he'll be back any day now. Max is still down for the count, lifeless in a hospital bed. Lucas hasn't left her side, refusing to give up on her. He barely sleeps or eats, blaming himself for her ending up like this. Most of the people have left town after the earth split open, evacuating as Hawkins has officially been deemed too cursed to live in.

The people still here carry on hunting for Eddie, despite your gang's efforts to convince them of all the upside-down bullshit. He's still being blamed for all of it, the killings, the 'earthquake', the world turning gray from the cracks in the earth. Dustin is a wreck, wracked with guilt over losing his friend. And everyone else is just barely keeping shit together. The upside-down has poisoned about half the town now, the plants are all dead, and any animals left behind have mutated into demogorgon hybrids. Day by day, you lose another battle as more parts of town have to be marked as 'dangerous and toxic'. The worst thing about all of this? You’ve lost the love of your life. Eddie Munson, resident freak, is dead.

You'd been secretly hooking up with Eddie when all this insanity kicked off. You were his right hand man in the Hellfire Club, helping him organize campaigns and recruiting new members. You'd known him for as long as you can remember, but you only became friends a couple years ago. You loved that club, always counting down the minutes until you could be back in the drama room with your favorite band of misfits. You and Eddie in particular became very close, he had taken a certain shine to you that nobody else had the privilege of receiving. One day, after a rather heated D&D session, Eddie asked you to stay back and help him clean up. As always, you happily accepted.

"Hey, you played really well today, Y/N." Eddie says, gathering the dice from around the table to put in his drawstring pouch. You're putting everyone's figures away in their box, and stacking the board tiles.

"Thanks, Eddie." You reply, trying not to blush. You don't understand why, but being around him, especially alone, gives you butterflies. He smiles at you, tossing the pouch into his bag, which lands with a clacking sound. "I'm excited for the next campaign, you're a great dungeon master." You say, meeting his big brown eyes.

He chuckles, walking over to you. "You really think so?" He asks, putting a hand over yours to take the boards from your grasp. You gasp at the contact, swallowing hard as your cheeks heat up beyond your control. "What's wrong? Cat got your tongue?" He teases, eyes flicking to your lips. He's grinning at you, tongue playing at the edge of his mouth. You wait for him to lean forward, to kiss you. You didn't even realize you'd want him to do that, that's odd. But he chickens out, backing off after a moment. He shakes his head, sighing before going back to his things.

"Um, what was that?" You ask, though you're not quite sure why.

"Nothing, Y/N. Don't worry 'bout it." He replies defensively, hoping he hasn't pissed you off. He doesn't want to assume something, and end up making you uncomfortable.

"But it's not nothing. Were you gonna kiss me?" You push, unable to let this go. His head whips around to look at you, eyes wider than you've ever seen them. It's here that you realize how many times you've lost yourself in those eyes. How many occasions your own have lingered over his body, admiring him without even thinking about it. He's so handsome, gorgeous even. You can't help wanting to tangle your fingers in his long hair, taste his plush lips with your own. It has never occurred to you that you're actually attracted to this man, until now.

"N-no." He stutters, forcing a nervous laugh. "What makes you say that?" He acts like what you're suggesting is utterly ridiculous, like he hasn't been secretly checking you out every chance he gets.

You slowly walk over to him, taking your time. He backs up a couple steps, becoming very nervous and assuming you're about to beat him up. "Relax, Eds. Please?" You plead with your eyes, not wanting to scare him. The look on your face makes him relax a little, and he stops moving so you can approach him. You're standing very close to him now, within kissing distance. You raise a hand to stroke his cheek, causing him to flinch. "It's okay." You reassure, and he lets you feel his soft skin with your palm. "You're so pretty, Eds. And I didn't put it together until now, but I'm very attracted to you." You speak quietly, feeling like your words violate the heated silence between you.

He snorts out a laugh. "You just NOW figured out that you like me? Man, you've been staring at me nonstop for months! Not that I'm complaining." He speaks in his usual smart-ass tone, you can't get enough of hearing him talk.

"Well, pardon me, Eddie! I've never looked at a man this way before, I didn't really think I could. Can I just kiss you already?" You roll your eyes, wanting so badly to act on this thing you've subconsciously been wanting for so long.

"Of course, baby. Do your worst." He jokes, making you both laugh to break the tension a little. When you quiet back down, you bring your mouth onto his, immediately melting at how soft his lips are. He tastes like tobacco and Dr. Pepper, a flavor combination you never thought you'd love so much. Your hands slip into his thick hair, weaving your fingers between the locks. Eddie's arms wrap around your back, holding you closer. Your matching Hellfire shirts rub against one another, radiating a welcome warmth between you.

"Hey, guys. I forgot my chemistry textbo-'' Dustin announces as he walks back through the doors to the drama room. He's frozen in his tracks, staring at the scene before him. His words startle you out of your embrace, quickly pushing each other away to try and hide what you were doing. Mortified expressions plague everyone's faces, eyes flicking between the three of you frantically. "Ah, there's my book! I'll just be going now!" He snatches the textbook from the table, about to turn heel and run.

"Dustin, wait!" Eddie calls to him, and Dustin stops in his tracks, turning back around slowly. "Just-..." Eddie gathers the words, struggling to piece them together. "Please don't say anything to anyone?" He begs, and Dustin's fearful expression softens. The kid walks over to the both of you, pulling you in for a group hug. You and Eddie look at each other, confused.

"I promise, your secret is safe with me." Dustin says, muffled against your chests. He lifts his head to look up at your faces. "I was wondering when you were finally gonna get together." He says with a joyful smile.

"What?!" You say simultaneously. Was your mutual attraction THAT obvious?

"Oh, please! The whole club has been talking about it, you two are not nearly as subtle as you think you are. The longing glances? The lingering on any contact either one of you makes on the other? You guys are the most lovesick people I've ever seen, it was getting painful to watch." He pats your shoulders, before turning to leave again. "Relax, I haven't said a word to anyone outside the group, and I don't plan to. I understand how dangerous this town can be. I'm happy for you though, so I'll leave you to it!" He salutes you both, jogging out of the room once more.

You look at Eddie again, utterly surprised that the club put two and two together before you even knew what your feelings meant. "Longing glances?" You ask mockingly, you can't help being a bit annoyed that the group has been talking about you like this.

"Lingering contact?" Eddie says, just as shocked as you are. He contemplates the idea for a moment, before giving you a devilish grin. "Although, I kinda like the sound of that. Maybe we should have some more." He walks the two of you backwards to the nearest wall, and you grunt as your back hits the cinder blocks. His large hand rests next to your face, essentially pinning you where you stand. His breath fans over your lips, your heart racing.

"Do your worst, Munson." You say, smirking as you anticipate his next move.

Rain patters against the windows outside Steve Harrington's house. Everyone had set up here as an official base camp, as it's the largest house of the group that hasn't been condemned yet. The patterns of decay and destruction have miraculously missed this place, the supermarket, and the hospital. But at the back of your mind, you know eventually nowhere will be safe anymore. It's only a matter of time. You're curled up in an armchair, looking out into the distance. Just a couple blocks away, you can see the vines strangling every house, tree, car, etc. Those nasty dust particles swirl around in the air like snow in slow-motion. "Y/N." You hear Jonathan behind you, his fingers tapping on your shoulder.

"Hm?" You hum in questioning, turning to see what he wants. He's holding out a mug of hot coffee, just the way you like it. "Oh, thanks." You say flatly, taking the mug from his pale hands.

"Yeah." He says awkwardly, leaving you to stare outside at the desolation. You take a sip of your drink, feeling the liquid warm you up on this cold October evening. It's Halloween, but nobody is in a particularly festive mood. You look around the living room, your heart sinking at the scene before you. Mike, Will, Erica, and Eleven are mindlessly playing Monopoly, trying to pass the time. They aren't smiling, barely saying a word unless someone owes somebody money.

Nancy, Robin, Steve, and Jonathan sit at a folding table drinking mugs of coffee similar to yours. Their expressions are similarly bleak, bags under their eyes as they don't sleep much. Dustin has separated himself from the others, residing in a spare room upstairs. You've often heard him sobbing when you go up there to use the bathroom, though lately the sound has stopped. The only sign of life he gives is leaving his empty dishes outside the door.

Hopper, Murray, Dmitri and Joyce sit on guard at every entrance, brandishing guns and axes in case any mutant creatures come knocking. Argyle went back home to be with his family a little bit after the fight. You're thankful his joyful spirit didn't have a chance to be broken by him staying in this godforsaken place. And Lucas is still at the hospital with Max, protecting her in her vulnerable state.

You found it odd that even after all this time, there's still running water and electricity in the parts of town that are habitable. You'd asked Hopper about it the other day, thinking that you'd be kicking it old school by now. Turns out, some of the associates of Hawkins Lab pulled some strings to man the power plant and water treatment facilities with a skeleton crew. The workers lock down inside the buildings, receiving weekly shipments of supplies while they keep things running. It seems these government assholes have a vested interest in the lot of you -and anyone you might recruit- surviving and beating Vecna when the time comes. They also ensure the safety of the hospital and Big Buy market so anyone left in town can get what they need.

Most of your parents have left you behind, once you explained that you needed to stay and fight the good fight. The Harringtons, Dustin's mom, the Wheelers, the Sinclairs, the Buckleys, your parents, are all gone. But they call often, letting you know how proud of you they are for trying to save the world. Plus, you have Hopper and the other grownups to keep you safe. Not to mention each other.

Despite sticking together, at least physically in the same house, tensions have been running high. Everyone is scared, sad, and tired. It leads to lots of arguments over who gets a turn sleeping in the beds upstairs while everyone else piles onto the couches or sleeping bags on the floor. Or who gets to shower first in the morning, who has to bring Dustin his next meal upstairs, who has to venture outside for supplies with Hopper or Dmitri. Petty things, really. These little fights always end in everyone involved bursting into exhausted tears, apologizing profusely once they remember the gravity of the situation you're all in.

Most times, you volunteer to do all of the things nobody wants to do to keep the peace. It helps your mind stay busy, keeping it far away from a certain deceased metalhead. You're also pretty built compared to some of the older kids. You worked odd jobs on the local farms before you were roped into the final act of Hawkins' torrid history of monsters and alternate dimensions. So you feel safer going out for food and other necessities, armed with Steve's nail-studded baseball bat to whack any creepy crawlies with.

One thing you've noticed through this whole shitty ordeal though, is how fucking quiet everyone is. There's no real conversation, unless it revolves around a potential plan of attack. No jokes are cracked to break the dismal mood that hangs over you all like the storm clouds outside. Not a single smile can be found on any of your faces, no glimmer of hope in your eyes. It's like, whatever is going on out there, is hollowing all of you out in here.

Eat, sleep, shit, shower, fight. That's all the thought your minds will allow anymore. Sitting, waiting for Vecna to strike again. It feels like it should've already happened by now, six months is an awfully long time to wait around when you plan to take over the world. And sometimes, a creeping, dreadful notion pops into your head to shake things up. You never verbalize it, and if the others think it too, they don't show it. You don't want it to be there, you always try to shove it away. But you can't help it, it just flashes inside your skull like a sickening neon sign. Did it already happen? Are we already dead? Is this what Hell is?

"What the hell? You can't do that!" Mike shouts, breaking the deafening silence. You look over to the kiddos, wondering what the dispute is about.

"What are you talking about, fartface?" Erica retorts, attempting to collect her $200.

"You rolled doubles THREE TIMES! That means you go to jail!" He spits back, snatching her thimble piece and moving it to the jail square.

"Nuh-uh! I don't know how your scrawny ass plays Monopoly, but that's not in the rules!" She puts it back in its original position, crossing her arms petulantly afterwards.

"Kids, please. Don't do this right now." Joyce says meekly, struggling to keep her eyelids from drooping.

"Well, then settle it! Do YOU or do you NOT go to jail after rolling doubles three times?" Mike demands, looking around at all your faces to weigh in.

"I dunno, man. I've never heard of that one." Steve chimes in with a sigh. He squints his eyes shut, taking a big swig of his coffee. You suspect he's been slipping some booze in there on occasion, though you don't blame him one bit.

"Oh, come on! Anybody else?" Mike doesn't let up, wanting to be right more than anything else.

"Look, kid. If you can't agree on a rule, then maybe you should just drop it. Same thing went for whether or not you can buy all the houses for one property at once, instead of one at a time to keep them even." Hopper speaks sternly, his gaze still stuck on the wilting world outside.

"That sounds fair to me!" Erica sneers, and Mike rolls his eyes.

"Whatever! Fuck this, I'm bored anyways." He flips the board over in a fit. The houses and money go flying through the air, clattering loudly to the floor. He stands up, storming off to the kitchen. Everyone exclaims in annoyance, but he just flips you all off.

"Nice." Murray says simply, finding this entire squabble to be a teensy bit entertaining. At least he's having fun, you suppose someone should be.

"Sorry, Erica." Will says, giving her an apologetic look. He's such a sweet kid, reminding you of your younger self. He helps Erica pick up the pieces that are scattered all over the room, while Eleven leaves to console Mike's temper.

"I'm gonna bring Dustin some dinner, maybe he'll talk to me today." You announce. A collective nod affirms your statement, and you go down the hall with your mug in hand. You see Mike leaning against the counter, Eleven's hand on his shoulder. "Hey, kiddos. Everything okay here?" Their eyes flick to you a moment, before proceeding to ignore your presence. "Okay, then." You breathe out, moving past them to dig around for some food for Dustin.

You prepare him a bologna and cheese sandwich, with some potato chips and an Orange Crush on the side. You climb the stairs quietly, not wanting to tick anyone off by being too loud. You reach Dustin's room, knocking on the door. "Just leave it outside." Dustin says weakly, his voice hoarse from sobbing nonstop.

"Dustin, it's me. Can I come in?" You ask, fully expecting him to say no. He's barely let anyone in during all this, closing himself off as a form of self-punishment. You hear no response, which draws out an aggravated sigh from your lips. You set the tray down, turning to leave.

"Okay." He says, immediately regretting it. He doesn't want a pep talk, or to be told Eddie's death wasn't his fault. He doesn't want to hear anything, he feels so guilty. Over these last few years, he's inadvertently led people to their deaths or put them in severe danger. He was the last person to see Will before he went missing. He endangered his friends by keeping Dart as a pet, roping Steve into the chaos of fighting the demodogs. With his stupid Cerebro, he led a band of kids into a secret Russian base. And finally, he got Eddie eaten up by fucking demobats. He swears he's cursed, dooming everyone he knows to pain and suffering.

You hurry into the room, setting the tray on the nightstand. He's laying on the bed, over the covers with his back to you. You sit on the edge, your weight making the bed squeak as it dips. "How are you doing, kiddo?" You ask dumbly, physically cringing at yourself for even bothering with it.

"Terrible, but so is everyone else, I'm sure." Dustin says, sounding utterly resigned.

"Well, you're not wrong. This isn't exactly spring break or anything." You try to lighten things up, but it's as if the air is being sucked out of the room.

He scoffs. "Ha, spring break. That's how this whole stupid mess started." God, you've never heard a child sound so bitter and jaded before. Dustin is usually the heart of the group, always there when you need him, eager to make you smile. But now, he's just as sardonic as the rest of you, even more so in fact.

"Dustin, I really think we've entertained you isolating yourself long enough. Can you please come downstairs? It's been months, and you barely say a word to anyone." You try to reason with him, but he quickly interjects.

"I don't exactly hear lively conversation going on down there, either. Everyone is just sitting and staring, right? Watching the clock tick the minutes away? Waiting for Vecna to come back and put us all out of our misery?" He shouts. He's so angry, you've never seen him like this.

"Look, you don't have to do anything you don't want to. I know you've been having a hard time. But I think you're forgetting that I also lost someone, Dusty. I loved him too, more than you know." Tears prick your eyes, you picture Eddie in your mind. He's laughing, tackling you onto his bed as he peppers your face with kisses. You shake your head, pushing the memory out because it hurts too much. "But he's gone, there's nothing we can do about that." You sniffle, wiping the salty tracks running down your cheeks. "And everyone down there? They feel like they've lost you too. I'm not gonna force you outta here, I just figured I'd let you know we miss you." You wait for a response, but he gives no indication of truly listening to what you're saying. You sigh in defeat, standing up to leave. You open the door, and just as you're about to step into the hallway, you feel Dustin's arms wrap around your waist.

"I'm sorry, Y/N." Dustin sobs, holding you tightly. You turn around to give him a proper hug, letting him cling to you.

"It's okay." You've missed hugs more than you realized, holding Dustin so tightly and not wanting to let go.

"I shouldn't have let him go back in there." He says, muffled against your chest.

"It's not on you, I shouldn't have let him do it. But he made that choice, Dustin. To buy us more time, because he loved us too." You stroke his hair, trying to calm him down.

"It's not fair." Dustin cries, shattering your heart into a million little pieces. He's right, it's not fair. Eddie was such a bright light in the world, never afraid to be himself. And now that he's been snuffed out, the entire universe can feel the loss.

"I know, Dusty." Is all you can think to say. The two of you stand like this for what seems like hours. Holding each other as you mourn Eddie for what you're guessing is the hundredth time. You'd hoped to be making progress in coping with Eddie's death by now. But seeing everyone's sullen faces, looking outside to witness the decay of reality, it only makes that wound split wide open again and again.

You still couldn't convince Dustin to come down and see everyone just yet. But he allowed you to keep him company for a few hours until you were fighting off a yawn. And he promised to try to join the others tomorrow, which you thought was fair enough. "Goodnight, Y/N. Thank you for hanging out with me. It's been really lonely up here." He gives you a weak smile, which you return in kind.

"Thank you for letting me in, kiddo. Get some rest, okay?" You reply, closing the door as you leave. It's your turn to have one of the bedrooms, and you're very thankful. Hopper snores so fucking loud, and Murray sleepwalks, which freaks you out. You don't make a stink about it, but it's nice to have a night of privacy every once in a while. Fourteen people in one house tends to get pretty crowded, even in one as big as this.

Eddie's POV

"Eddie....it's time to wake up." You hear a gravelly, booming voice calling your name. A distorted clock chimes, rattling your brain. "Come along, child. I've been waiting for you." The voice speaks again, and you realize it's inside your head. You open your eyes, only to find pure and utter darkness. You're laying on your back, arms over your chest like a corpse. You try to move, but you're surrounded by compacted earth. What the hell? Where am I? Where's Dustin, or Y/N? A flurry of thoughts dance around in your head, causing you to panic. "Eddie, the time has come for you to join me." The voice speaks once more, and it's here that the jumbled pieces click into place. You died, eaten alive by the demobats. You bled out in Y/N and Dustin's arms, sharing one last tearful goodbye. They must have buried you, and now you're hearing Vecna in your goddamn head. What the fuck?

You begin to claw at the thick dirt, feeling the soil shove its way under your fingernails. There has to be some mistake, you can't actually be dead, right? They wouldn't leave you here, would they? You pant and grunt while you dig upwards, blinking rapidly as the debris falls into your eyes. "Shit. Shit. Shit." You mutter to yourself, trying to fight against your claustrophobia. Your body has gone into overdrive, moving as fast as it can to break free from this prison. This seems to go on for hours, and your arms ache from the work. But you see it, a sliver of stormy sky above you. You keep going, eventually shoving a hand through to the surface. "Yes!" You shout, cheering for yourself in nervous relief.

You're about to worm the hole open so you can climb out of your shallow grave, when you feel a large, spindly hand yank your wrist. You scream, stomach flipping as this mysterious hand lifts you out of the dirt and into the air. The low light of the upside-down shocks your eyes, making you wince. But when you open them again, your face is centimeters away from who you can only guess is Vecna. "Eddie." He says, out loud this time. Another chime of the clock clangs in the air. Your feet dangle just above the ground as you look at him in horror. He's worse than you'd thought he'd be. Grey, fleshy, with tentacles moving about like living strands of hair. His nose is missing, and he looks kinda melted. He stares into your eyes, no clear expression on his face.

He sets you down, and you almost stumble to the ground while trying to gain your footing. "How long have I been here?" You're not sure he'll tell you, but you need answers. There's no way in hell that Y/N or the others would leave you like this.

"About six months, not that it matters." He replies, almost chuckling at the thought. Your eyes widen, six months. You take a moment to look yourself over, wondering how much you've decayed over all that time. And sure enough, you've gone full-on Romero. Your flesh is desiccated, barely hanging onto your bones, torn in multiple places from the bat bites. Your rings hang loosely on your fingers, the tips scraped off from digging your way to the surface. Your clothes are torn, covered in dirt and dried blood. They fit loosely on your rotting body. You feel your face as best you can, almost squishing your eyeballs in the process as they're like grapes gone bad in the refrigerator. You can feel your entire skull, and most of your hair has fallen off your head. If you had anything left in your shriveled stomach, it would surely come up your leathery throat and spew onto the ground below. You contemplate screaming again, but what would the point of that be? Nobody can hear you.

"Then how the fuck am I standing here?" You ask, in utter disbelief that this is happening. Maybe you'll wake up and this has all been a bad dream. Right?

"Well, I need you for a special mission, Eddie." He replies, grinning now. The image of it makes you feel ill, but he continues. "You see, I'm in the final phase of my plan. But I need you to go back to your world, and help me destroy your friends."

"There's no fucking way I'm doing that! I'd rather go back in the ground, thank you!" You shout, how dare he ask you to do such a thing. You refuse to hurt anyone, much less the people who tried to save you.

"Are you sure about that? After all, they left you behind." Vecna says, trying to draw you in. You shake your head, not allowing him to weasel his way into your mind.

"Well yeah, I got eaten by your stupid bats. What the hell were they supposed to do? They would've brought me back up there if they could." You retort, your joints creaking as you cross your arms.

"They could've at least tried to get you to a hospital. Or at least back up there for a proper burial. But no, they left you here to rot with me. The way I see it, they didn't care about you very much at all, Eddie." He moves closer, speaking in your ear. You want to punch him, his words do nothing but anger you. But who exactly is that anger really being directed at? Vecna, or yourself?

"That's not true. I have no reason to believe a damn thing you say. Y/N and Dustin cared about me more than anyone." You stick to your guns, showing him your iron will.

"Let me show you then. Show you just how much your friends care." He speaks mischievously, and you don't like it one bit. But you nod, wanting more than anything to see Y/N's face again. Maybe he'll be proven wrong, he'll know just how much the others miss you. With a wave of Vecna's hand, a billow of red smoke appears, forming an opening to view the right-side-up. "See for yourself, child." Vecna gestures for you to look closely, nudging you nearer to the window he's created. The clock thrums again, making you jump.

Inside, you see the group gathered in Steve's house. It must be Halloween, because everyone is wearing cobbled together costumes, pretending to trick-or-treat around the house. Everyone is smiling and laughing, making the best of their situation. "Okay, so? They've gotta be happy somehow, right? They've all been through so much, way before I got caught up in this." You look at him, unimpressed with his little show. Though, it does sting a bit to see Y/N and Dustin happy when you're not around anymore. But you can't expect them to mourn you forever. You tell yourself, and it's as true as it is painful.

"Just keep watching." Vecna insists, redirecting your attention to the scene he's displayed for you. The focus shifts to a D&D table, with Y/N at the head of it. Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Erica sit around your beautiful boyfriend. They're still dressed in costumes, and Y/N is leading a campaign.

You watch as they all play the game, noticing the campaign is based on something, or someone, in particular. "Your backs are against the wall, Vecna and his bats surround you in his lair. He speaks to you in a booming voice." Y/N weaves the tale for the players, his expression lighting up while he leads them along. "He says, 'You can either fight and die as a group, effectively leading to the destruction of your world. Or....you can sacrifice your friend, Eddie the Banished, to save yourselves.' What do you choose, dear players?" Y/N's expression is odd, nothing you've ever seen before. Like a vulgar glee. This can't be right. There's no way he would make a fucking campaign about you, let alone suggest the others sacrifice you like that. This is sick, Vecna is just trying to manipulate you.

"No! They wouldn't do this! You're trying to scare me, but it's not gonna work!" You scream at him, but it doesn't disguise the tremble in your voice.

"I can only show you what is, Eddie. This window is incapable of deception. It's your world up there, not mine. What you see is the truth. I suggest you keep looking." Vecna says, almost like a warning. But you doubt he can do anything worse than what you've already been through. You sigh, continuing to do as he asks. You still don't quite believe him, mostly.

"I say we fight!" Dustin suggests, which makes you smile. You look at Vecna again, as if to say 'told you so'. But his face stays the same.

"Are you serious? There's no way we can beat Vecna. And Eddie's not even a playing character. We can let him go, easy." Lucas interjects, eager to survive. Your heart sinks, or at least you think it does. You figure it's only fair for the players to weigh their options, you've had them do so on many occasions. But the fact that it's you they're considering letting go, it definitely hurts.

"I second that. Eddie doesn't matter to the game whatsoever." Mike says, and it feels like you've been slapped in the face. Even if it's just an NPC based on you, they don't need to be so harsh. You wonder why Y/N would even consider putting you in the game, just to make the others debate on whether or not to fucking kill you. You thought he had a bit more respect for you, and your relationship. The others come to an agreement, voting to let Vecna take you in exchange for saving their own hides.

"What the fuck is going on?" You feel like you've gone insane, your heart would be pounding right now if it could still beat. You turn away from the images being shown to you, unable to accept this as the truth. But Vecna insists, the window only tells you what reality is.

"I tried to warn you. You must not matter much if you're just cannon-fodder for their silly little games. But I'm afraid that's not the end of it." That stupid fucking voice continues speaking, poisoning your mind with anger and doubt. You groan in annoyance, facing this disgusting play once more.

You see Y/N again, but he's alone with Steve. You're guessing it's his bedroom or something, they're sitting on a bed side by side. Steve's hand is on Y/N's thigh, and it makes you seethe with jealousy. What is Harrington doing, touching your boyfriend? "I'm sorry about Eddie, Y/N." Steve says, but Y/N doesn't seem all that broken up about it. He's staring at Steve's lips, the way he used to stare at your lips.

"No, no. This cannot be happening." You say through gritted teeth, hopelessly watching as Y/N leans a little closer to tuck some loose hair out of Steve's face.

"We weren't that serious. I've always thought you were much cuter than Eddie anyway. I only settled because I figured I never had a chance with you." Y/N replies lustfully, and a lump forms in the back of your throat.

"Well, you do now that he's gone." Steve says, bringing his own face closer to your love's. "Can I kiss you now?" He asks, grinning slyly while looking in Y/N's eyes.

"Do your worst, Harrington." Y/N chuckles, pressing his mouth on Steve's. You gasp in shock, wishing your eyes are deceiving you. That was your line. Steve and Y/N start to make out heavily, their hands tangling in each other's hair. Their lips smack together loudly, and they moan against one another. You feel sick, sicker than you ever thought possible. You fall to the ground, wishing you had tears to cry. You sob dryly, shaking your head as you hold it in your withered hands.

"No, no, no. Y/N, how could you do this to me." You speak pitifully to yourself. You try to slap yourself awake. But the sting of your boney hand on your boney face is nothing compared to having your heart stomped on like this. You proceed to rock back and forth in the dirt, overwhelmed by everything Vecna has shown you. "This can't be real. Y/N loved me. He loved me. And I loved him. This isn't happening. I'll wake up and this will all have been a bad dream. Fuck this, it's bullshit. It's not fucking real! It's not real! IT'S NOT REAL!" You yell, and the clock chimes that fourth and final time.

"I truly am sorry, Eddie. But now, you have no reason to resist. I can restore you, make you strong. All I ask is that you go up there and eliminate Y/N and the others. I've allowed them to get in the way for too long." Vecna says, lifting you up into the air like you saw him do to Chrissy on that fateful night.

"It's not real. It's not real." Is all you can say, repeating it like a mantra. You just wanna wake up, be warm and safe in Y/N's arms again. You wanna be with the Hellfire Club, playing with Dustin and the others. You wanna be back in your trailer, having dinner with Wayne before he leaves for work. Hell, you'd take being in the middle of final exams over this. Your arms spread outwards against your will, and your toes point down at the earth.

"I'll make you all better, Eddie. And then you can exact your revenge." Vecna says, and you feel a shooting pain coursing through you. Your muscles and organs regenerate, filling your rapidly healing flesh. You gasp in air as your lungs inflate, and your heart begins to beat once more.

"No! Don't do this! It's not real! Fuck!" You scream, begging for him to just let you rest. It feels like you're being torn apart, while it's quite the opposite. Scar tissue creeps over your wounds, branding you as the rips in your body close up. Your face and gums plump back up to their original form, and brand new hair sprouts from your scalp, thick and curly as always. You look over yourself, seeing you're practically back to normal. You figure this would be the end of it, but it doesn't stop here.

"I think I'll make some improvements, hopefully they'll suit you well." Vecna says, and you wonder what the fuck that means. You're just about to ask, when your hands start to cramp. You glance over at one, watching in terror as your fingers begin to extend, with long, sharp nails pushing their way through the tips painfully.

"What the fuck!?" You scream as they fully form. You wiggle the digits, noticing the knotted knuckles and how the claws shine in the light. Before you can fully absorb what's happened to your hands, the unbearable sensation migrates to your mouth. Your canines are being forced from their places in your gums, sharp fangs shooting out like daggers to replace them. "Fuck! What the hell are you doing to me? You crazy motherfucker!" You speak with a slight lisp, the fangs getting in the way of your tongue. You scream in agony as your eyeballs pull themselves out of your head, plopping onto the ground. You can't see a damn thing, until some new ones sprout from your skull. Everything is tinted in a bloody hue now. Great, red irises. Real original, Vecna. And finally, two large wings spring violently from your back. They're obscenely large, dark red with black joints. There's holes and tears in them, as if you've already worn them out. "FUCK!" You scream, louder than all the other times. It hurts so fucking bad, you just want to be dead again. It would be so much better than this. Mutated into this monster, about to be enslaved into servitude for Vecna. A single, bloody tear rolls down your cheek as he lowers you back to the ground.

"You're mine now, you will heed my every command." Vecna makes another wave of his hand, and you feel yourself changing again. But this time it's inside your head. Those awful images spin around like a carousel, the costumes, the kiddos sacrificing you, Steve and Y/N kissing. You're no longer in control. It's like you're being tucked away, forced to bear witness as a new entity takes up residence in your mind. Anger, jealousy, and hatred fill you up, pushing out any love, or happiness you once had. You gaze at your new master with a sinister grin.

"Hail. Lord. Vecna." You say, almost mockingly as you call back to the campaign you played before your life as you knew it ended. The power coursing through you is intoxicating, no drug you've ever had even compares. And it's miles above any kiss or touch or fuck Y/N ever gave you. This feels so fucking good. You kneel before Vecna, bowing your head in obedience.

"You'll be the perfect soldier, Eddie. Now go, kill the ones who have betrayed you." He commands, and you nod as you stand again. You turn, giving one last glance at your grave. You notice Dustin and Y/N stuck your guitar into the ground in place of a headstone. How sweet, now I can use it to bash their sorry little heads in. You walk over, yanking the instrument out of the soil with ease. You sling it over your back, taking a running start. You spread your wings, jumping into the air. The wind catches, and you begin your flight to the right-side-up.

You snatch a demobat out of the sky as you ascend, suddenly quite ravenous for some food. It squeals and squirms, gnashing its teeth at you defensively. You just chuckle, watching it struggle to break from your iron grasp. "Payback's a bitch, little guy." You viciously sink your fangs into it, draining its bitter blood. The warm fluid drips down your chin, and you moan pleasurably as it flows into your belly. Once the bat is empty, you let it fall lazily from your palm. You lick your lips, groaning again as this little snack fuels you further. "You're next, Y/N." You say aloud, flapping your wings harder as you laugh menacingly.

Y/N's POV

"Eddie, what are you doing?!" You shout at him as he stands above you through the gate in his trailer. You and Dustin had just assisted him in distracting the demobats, who are currently eating their way through Eddie's bedroom door to get to you. Both you and Dustin have climbed up the knotted sheets to get to the right-side-up, while Eddie glances at the deteriorating door.

He looks up at you, fear and worry in his eyes. Those bats will just come right through and attack you, unless he stalls them. He lets go of the sheet, picking up his spear to cut the end off. The pale fabric falls to the ground, leaving him no path to escape. "Eddie! What the hell are you doing?" Dustin shouts, begging with him to stop messing around. Eddie pushes the mattress out of the way, so you can't follow him. You and Dustin scream helplessly, knowing exactly what he's up to.

"I'm buying more time." He says, flashing you a small heroic smile before dashing for the front door.

"Eddie, no! Please don't do this!" You scream, and Dustin starts sobbing as he yells right along with you. You look at the kid, sharing a tearful glance. "There's no fucking way I'm letting him go." You say, almost angry that Eddie would attempt something so stupid.

The door opens and shuts. And you hear Eddie shout to taunt the bats as he drives them away from the trailer. "Come and get me you sons of bitches!" You gotta move, and fast. You and Dustin move the mattress from your side away, putting one of the kitchen chairs underneath the gate. You step onto it, taking a leap to grab onto the gaping hole above you. It's slick in your hands, but you keep going. You fall through the hole, aiming so you land on your back.

"Fuck!" You shout as the carpet knocks the wind out of you. You lay here for a moment, surging pain running up and down your back.

"Y/N, come on! We gotta stop him!" Dustin cries in desperation. You nod, rolling yourself over with a wince. You make it to your knees, breathing heavily as you push past the pain. You finally stand, putting the mattress back in place so Dustin can get a soft landing.

"C'mon, kiddo. We have to save the jackass." You bark, and he follows your actions precisely, falling gently onto the mattress. You grab his arm, yanking him to stand so the two of you can go to Eddie. You sprint through the door, almost falling down the stairs before your feet touch the vine-tangled ground. You see Eddie riding one of the bicycles, drawing the bats away from you. "Eddie!" You shout, and he glances back at you in surprise. His eyes are wide, he didn't want you back in here.

Eddie hits a vine with his front tire, rolling onto the ground. He grunts roughly, getting back up to keep running. He can't let you or Dustin get hurt. He won't let anyone else end up dead because of him. He continues to let the bats chase him, before he stops in his tracks. He's tired of running, he doesn't want to be a coward anymore. He holds up his shield and spear, yelling as he lets the bats charge him. They swarm around him, there's hundreds flapping viciously about. They blow past in a wave at first, before circling like a screeching tornado. You watch helplessly, there's not a thing you can do to assist him without getting Dustin hurt. "Eddie!" Dustin shouts, wanting him to come back to the both of you.

One by one, bats dive and swipe at Eddie. He's able to dodge them or strike them down pretty easily so far, you think that maybe he'll be alright. But there's too many, you wish there was something you could do. Your mind races, trying to come up with anything to help him. Eddie whacks another bat, adrenaline pumping through his veins. There's so many of them, but he can't give up now. Not while you're watching, not while you're still in danger. "COME ON!" He taunts the creatures, feeling like a badass for fending off multiple bats already. He hopes this energy rushing inside him will keep him safe.

"Eddie, look out!" You cry, as another bat comes up behind him. It wraps its tail around his neck, strangling him to his knees. "No!" You try to run to him, but Dustin holds you back. "Let me go, I have to help him! Let me go!" You scream, tears streaming down your face as you watch your boyfriend get taken down. Four more bats whip their tails around Eddie's arms and legs, holding him down on the ground.

And here is where you reach the point of no return. The other bats descend onto Eddie's body, sinking their sharp teeth into his torso, his face, his limbs. Eddie screams, and it's the worst thing you've ever heard. Blood-curdling, earth-shattering agony. "Eddie!" Dustin yells, wishing he could save him. But you're vastly outnumbered, and the spears and shields aren't nearly enough to take them out. It seems to go on for hours, witnessing the most awful thing you've ever seen. Your love is dying before your eyes, and there's nothing you can do. You've never felt so helpless before.

But the other upside-down team must have finally given it to Vecna real good, because suddenly the bats squeal and fall lifelessly to the ground. You immediately run to Eddie, hoping there's a chance you can get him to a hospital. You kneel at his side, assessing the damage. "I'm here, Eds." You say softly, glancing over his body as he trembles on the ground. What you see tells you it's too late. His body is covered in bites, bleeding too much and too fast. He chokes as he tries to speak, he's bleeding internally too.

"We gotta move him, Y/N. He's in real bad shape." Dustin insists. But you wordlessly shake your head at him. His expression falls, but he doesn't want to make Eddie panic.

"That bad, huh?" Eddie manages to say, thick, liquidy noises mixed in with his voice. You lift his torso into your lap slightly, which makes him groan through gritted teeth.

"No, baby. It's okay. Just let me hold you." You coo at him, controlling your sobs. He's not gonna make it, and he can read it all over your face.

"I didn't run away this time, right?" He asks you, wanting to know if he did good for you and the others. To know he's not a coward.

"No, you didn't. You're so brave, love." You reply, stroking his thick locks as your tears fall. Your breath hitches as you talk to him, this is all too much. You haven't had enough time with him, it's not fair.

"You two are gonna have to look after those little sheep for me, okay?" He says, and those words break your heart more than you could have imagined. You don't want to accept that he's leaving you any moment now, shaking your head in denial. But he repeats himself. "Please, say you'll look after them? For me?" He begs, looking deep into your eyes.

"Okay, we will. I promise." You say, your shoulders shuddering as you cry a little harder.

"Baby, don't be sad. I'll always be with you, okay? You've made this past year MY year. I love you so much." He moves his hand to hold yours, interlocking your fingers together.

"I love you too, Eddie." You reply with a trembling lip. Eddie looks to Dustin for a moment, giving him a large smile.

"And I love you, kid. You're gonna be a kickass dungeon master for me, right?"

"I'll try my best. Nobody can compare to you though, Eddie." Dustin sniffles, wiping his eyes to keep it together.

"Oh, I dunno about that." Eddie laughs, which makes him cough up more blood. "Fuck, that hurts." You frantically wipe it away, though you realize while you're doing it that it makes little difference. He swallows as best he can, cringing at the metallic taste. This is the end of the line, time is almost up. He can feel it, as his blood flows onto you while you hold him. His head feels light, and his body is so weak. He reaches his free hand up to his head, clumsily pulling his bandana off and handing it to you. "I want you to have this, to remember me always." The words are harder to get out now, he can't stop choking and coughing with every movement.

You nod, trying so hard to keep your intense sobs back. You don't want him to see you lose control, but there's a painful lump forming at the back of your throat as you contain your cries. You take hold of the cloth, but his fingers can barely flex enough to let it go. "Can I give you a kiss goodbye at least?" You ask, not caring about the smears of crimson all over his mouth.

"Of course. Do your worst, Y/N." He smirks, flashing his red-tinged teeth at you. Even on death's door, he's still the lovable smartass you fell for. You lean down as carefully as you can, pressing your lips to his. He breathes heavily through his nose, and you feel a tear of his own warm your cheek. Eddie returns the kiss as best he can, using his last bit of strength to express just how much he loves you. After a moment, you feel his body go still beneath you. A thick sigh leaves his lungs, and his mouth stops moving with yours. His hands go limp, letting yours and the bandana fall from his grip.

You bring yourself upright again, looking at Eddie's face. His eyes are closed, and his mouth is slightly agape. He looks so peaceful, except for all the blood. You can't hold back anymore. A loud sob rips itself from your throat, stabbing the still air with its high pitch. You pull his body up to hold him against you. "It's not fair!" You cry, rocking back and forth as his blood soaks through your clothes. "It's not fair!"

Dustin puts a hand on your shoulder, attempting to comfort you through his own tears. "I'm sorry, Y/N. I'm so, so sorry."

"I just want him back! He's supposed to be with me forever, and we’re gonna grow old together. It's not fucking fair!" You scream, so angry and devastated.

"Y/N?" You're being shaken awake, gasping as you open your eyes to see Dustin standing over you. The lights are off, but you can make out his face in the moonlight shining through the window. "You were having a nightmare about Eddie again." He speaks calmly, but his expression shows deep sorrow and concern.

Your heart is pounding, and you're drenched in a cold sweat. You try to steady your breathing, noticing the trail of tears that fell from your eyes as you slept. You dream about Eddie's death almost every night, plagued with each vivid detail. You sigh, semi-relieved that you're not actually back in that awful memory. "Sorry, Dustin. I didn't mean to wake you." You give him a weak smile, carding your hands through your dampened hair.

"It's okay, I just wanted to make sure you were alright." You sit up, letting him pull you in for a hug. "Do you want me to stay with you?" He asks, not sure if you want to be alone anymore after your dream.

"Thanks, buddy. But I'll be okay, I promise." You leave his embrace, meeting his gaze again. He nods in confirmation, before heading to the door. "Goodnight, Dustin." You say simply.

"Goodnight, Y/N." He replies, before closing the door. You let out a deep sigh, rubbing your moist eyes to collect yourself. While your face is covered, you hear the shuffling of feet inside the room. "Do you need something, Dustin?" You ask, thinking maybe he came back in. You put your arms in your lap, blinking to look across the room. But you don't see Dustin, instead you see a sight that has to be a hallucination. You gasp, knowing a scream will just wake everybody up.

Crouching at the foot of your bed, there's a dark figure with glowing, red eyes. Its spindly hands rest at the edge of the mattress, with long, knotted fingers and sharp claws. You can't fully make out the look of it, but it's got long, curly brown hair. Just like Eddie's. But there's no way whatever the fuck this thing is can be Eddie. Right? It doesn't speak at first, just stares at you clutching the covers in your fearful fists. You can't move, or speak, all you can do is hold its intense gaze. After what seems like an eternity, it stands up on two legs to reveal itself. "Did ya miss me?" It says, exactly in Eddie's voice.

"E-eddie?" You ask dumbly, reaching over to turn on the bedside lamp. The light clicks on, and the creature before you shields its eyes while hissing. "Is it really you?" You ask, though the thing standing across from you looks like something out of a horror movie.

It lowers its hand, fully revealing its face to you. "The one and only, baby." You gasp again, it really is him. But not like you once knew him, he's changed. He's got those long fingers, and the blood-red eyes. Inside his mouth are sharp fangs like a vampire, they glint in the light as he smiles at you. You also notice he has huge red wings, tattered and torn like his clothes. "You like my new look, Y/N?" He asks, a strange hint of mischief in his tone. You're overjoyed to see him, regardless of how much he looks like a monster. You've missed him so much, you just wanna kiss his beautiful face. But there's something in the back of your head, telling you -no, warning you- to not get close to him.

"I'm happy to see you, Eds. We've all missed you so much." You can't help the uneasiness in your voice, and your fear only makes Eddie's smile grow wider. He's enjoying your terror, something is definitely wrong here.

"Oh, really? It seemed like you all were getting along just fine without me." He retorts, words dipped in a wash of anger. Your brows furrow, not sure what he's referring to.

"What are you talking about?" You ask, genuinely curious. Has he been like this for a while? Was he watching you? And if so, what did he see that indicated anything other than sheer misery?

His eyes flare with fury, and he raises his voice just a little. "Don't act like you don't know. I saw you. Laughing and playing D&D with the kids. You put me in the campaign, Y/N. And you all voted to sacrifice me to save yourselves." Your eyes widen. What the fuck is he talking about?

"Eddie, we haven't played D&D for months. Did you take a look outside? We've just been watching the world fall apart, waiting for Vecna to come back. That's all, it's been absolutely miserable!" You have no idea where he's gotten his information, but his facts are wrong.

"Don't bullshit me, man! Vecna showed me everything!" Eddie shouts, and you're worried he's going to wake somebody up. He walks around the side of the bed, standing as close to you as he can. He bends over, bringing his face right in front of yours. "He also showed me what you've been getting up to with Steve."

"Steve? What?!" You exclaim, you've never even looked at Steve in that way. He's not making sense, Vecna must be manipulating him.

"You were kissing him, Y/N. You told him you only settled for me, but you wanted him the whole time! Don't try to lie, I saw it all. You and everyone else don't give a fuck about me." He speaks bitterly, almost spitting his words at you. You wish there was a way to convince him, but you doubt you have the capacity to break the curse Vecna's got him under.

"Eddie, I swear. Nothing Vecna showed you is true. He's done this to you, made you a monster. And he's filled your head with lies." You feel tears beginning to sting your eyes, unable to believe this is really happening. You wished every day and night for Eddie to come back to you. But not like this, never like this. "I love you, Eddie. I always will." You say, looking deep into those scarlet eyes of his. You show him the bandana you have tied around your bicep, trying to make him see that you've never forgotten your feelings for him. "Look! I've kept it all this time, to remember you always." His expression doesn't change, but he shakes his head like your words have penetrated the walls a little.

"Y/N, I've been sent here to kill you. All of you. There's nothing you can say to change that. Vecna needs you out of the way." Eddie's tone is different, like it pains him to say these things. There's no more sick glee like before, you must be getting through to him. At least a little bit. You rack your brain, maybe there isn't anything more you can say. But perhaps there’s something you can do.

"Maybe you're right. There's nothing I can say, at least not with words." You act quickly to catch him off guard, afraid of what might happen if you fail. You grab the back of his head with your hands, bringing his face closer. You lean forward, kissing him in a desperate attempt to break this awful spell. He'll see that you've never stopped loving him. You just have to prove it.

"Mmm!" He grunts, attempting to push you away. You're tricking him, and he can't have that. But you won't let go, lacing your fingers behind his skull to keep him in place. Your mouth moves against his, waiting for him to return the kiss. It takes a moment, but you can feel the switch flip once you've been on him long enough. The evil thing Vecna planted inside him is thrown from the driver's seat, allowing his true self to take control once more. He stops struggling, softening at your touch. Eddie's hands grip your face, and he finally moves his lips against yours just like he used to. He even bites your lip, making you gasp. He slips his tongue into your mouth, tangling with yours in a fight for dominance. Tears run down your cheeks, and you can feel some of his own mixing in as you continue to kiss.

You break apart, looking at his saddened face. He sniffles, the corners of his mouth upturning in a friendly smile. "Is it really you, baby?" You ask, still unsure if your little plan has worked. He nods frantically, slinging his guitar off his back and climbing onto the bed to straddle you. His lip is trembling, he's so happy to be free from that mental prison. His wings retract into his back, which gives Eddie a pained look on his face.

"I'm sorry, Y/N. I wasn't in control. Vecna showed me all those awful things. I didn't wanna believe him, the things he showed me were so awful. I knew it wasn't real, it couldn't be. But he made me into this, and he said I have to kill you. But I don't wanna do that. I don't. I don't. I don't." He speaks too fast for his newly-fanged mouth to keep up. He's shaking, and crying bloody tears. You've never seen him so distraught.

"I know, baby. It's okay, it's okay. I'm right here, and I'm never gonna leave you again." You bring his face to yours again, tenderly peppering him with little butterfly kisses. Your forehead rests against his, the two of you let out shuddering breaths as you try to calm down. "Just breathe, Eds. You'll be alright. I'm just so happy you're back here with me." You wrap your arms around him, and he does the same. Your heads lay on each other's shoulders, exchanging your warmth in comfort. "I'm sorry I couldn't save you. I dream about losing you every single night." You say, hiccuping through your words. You've been absolutely wracked with guilt since that tragic night. You cried harder than you ever had before when you buried him in the upside-down.

"It's not your fault, Y/N. I gave myself to save you, those fuckin' bats would've come through the gate if I didn't stop them. I couldn't let anything happen to you." Your grip on him tightens, letting your flexing muscles release all the pent up pain and anguish you've been holding onto these last few months.

"And you're so brave for doing that. Completely stupid, but brave." You can't help letting out a weak laugh at that, and he gladly joins you in it. You've been riding a temperamental wave of sadness and anger the whole time he's been gone. It feels so good to laugh again, even just for a moment. You pull apart to look Eddie over again, taking a real chance to absorb his image. You're afraid he'll evaporate like a mirage at any second, or that the monster will regain control. But all you find is your handsome boyfriend, with a couple new features. You'd be lying if you weren't attracted to them though, those red eyes pierce directly into your soul. "To answer your question before, I do like the new look. It's very...metal." You give him a sly smile, and he picks up on what you mean immediately.

"Is that so? Been missing me in an extra special way, have you?" He asks, his tongue playing seductively at the corner of his mouth. You can't believe you're actually thinking about sex right now, but you find vampires to be really hot. Eddie attempted to dress as one once to impress you, but you almost choked to death when one of his fake fangs came loose.

"Is that crazy?" You ask, blushing like mad. You don't know if he can sleep with you right now, or if certain parts are even still working.

"Not at all, sweetheart. I understand. And I'd be lying if I said I'm not dying to get reacquainted with you." He says, chuckling at his own bad joke.

"Are you able to-..." You start awkwardly, unsure how to phrase your question properly. "Is your-..." You sigh, covering your face with your hands as you laugh. You feel so silly, trying to figure out if his dick is functional or not. He moves your hands with his, taking hold of one to lead it between his legs. His eyes bore into yours, a gentle smile on his lips. Eddie holds your hand to his crotch, and you can already feel how hard he is for you.

"I assure you, my cock works just fine." You squeeze him gently, making him groan. "Fuck, Y/N." His body shudders at the contact, it's been so long since he's felt your touch.

Your own erection begins to grow beneath him, and the room has set itself on fire. You want him so badly, you've wanted just one more night with him more than anything. It seems selfish, but it's not just about the fucking. It's about the love intertwined within it. This man means the absolute world to you, and being with him intimately is the most potent expression of that fact. "I need you, Eddie." You tilt your head to kiss him, and he follows your lead. Your lips meet, and Eddie grips the sides of your face with his large hands. You moan against him, opening your mouth to let his tongue inside like before. He's such a great kisser, it's unreal.

Eddie's shuffles to pull the covers off of you, and you lay back down against the pillow. He puts his knees on either side of you, bringing his lips to your neck. He easily finds your sweet spot, making you moan. "I've missed you so much, baby." He says breathily, dragging his tongue along your throat. He can feel your heartbeat, sense the blood pumping away in your veins. He's suddenly feeling very hungry again, but he doesn't wanna hurt you. You notice an odd look in his eye as he pulls away from your neck.

"What is it, love?" You ask, his pupils are dilated, and he's breathing heavily. He looks at you, licking his lips. It doesn't take a genius to understand what's going on here. "Are you hungry, Eddie?" You say while gazing at him lustfully. He just nods, ashamed that he wants to taste you like that. He mentally curses Vecna for making him into a bloodthirsty monster. You take his hand, trying to reassure him that it's okay. "You don't have to feel bad, love. It's not your fault." He softens a little, his shoulders relaxing. "I can give you what you need, baby. I trust you." He stiffens again, shaking his head.

"Y/N, no. I'm not gonna do that, not to you." He insists, but you want to help him in any way you can.

"Eddie, I want to make you happy. It's just a little taste. It won't kill me." You speak carefully, not wanting to ruin the mood. Eddie sighs. You're so goddamn sweet on him, he has no idea how he got so lucky.

"Are you sure? I'm worried I won't be able to control myself." You hadn't considered that, he is new to this whole thing. How does he know when to stop? Or would he even want to stop? But you figure it's better to give him express permission now, let him get what he needs. As opposed to him getting caught up in the moment and doing it unexpectedly, he might actually hurt you if that happens.

"We'll be careful, okay? Just take it slow, and stop when you have just enough to not be so unbearably hungry anymore." You can't believe you're actually about to let your boyfriend drink your blood, but you hate to see him so miserable.

"Okay, okay. Just please don't let me kill you." He grumbles, frustrated as he battles with his heart and his stomach. You take hold of his hands, stroking them lovingly. He meets your eyes, finding nothing but trust and admiration within them.

"I know you won't kill me, baby. We love each other, and love has far more power than anything Vecna can do." You pull him by his tattered shirt, kissing him roughly to get the point across. You let him go, allowing him to slowly move to your neck. He licks and sucks your flesh, warming you up again. His hand drags down your front, ghosting over your jeans. "Eddie." You sigh, savoring every tantalizing touch he gives you. You lay your arms at your sides, trying to lie still for him.

"Are you ready, love?" Eddie speaks in your ear, sending a chill up your spine. You can hear the pure hunger in his voice, and it only turns you on even more. You want him to taste you, take you any way he desires.

"Yes. Take what you need, sweetheart." You're panting now, anxiously waiting for his sharp fangs to penetrate your skin. You close your eyes, biting your lip to conceal any noises of pain or pleasure you'll let out. Eddie positions his lips in a spot to avoid major arteries, using his newly gifted senses to find the perfect place to drink from you without causing injury. He holds the other side of your throat gently in his hand, keeping you in place in case you try to squirm.

His fangs begin to cut into you, slowly piercing the flesh with a slight burning sensation. You groan, clenching your eyes shut. It feels so good, in a really odd way. Your blood begins to flow, slowly coating Eddie's teeth. He starts to drink, sucking the essence of life from you. He tries to not make overly squelchy noises as he swallows, they don't sound very pleasant. "Mmm." He moans, tasting how perfect you are. Your blood is metallic, but also a little bit sweet. He's never had anything like it, it's absolutely mind-blowing. Your head lightens a little through the sting, which slowly morphs into ecstasy.

"Fuck, Eddie." You whimper, and the sound makes his cock twitch. You didn't expect this experience to arouse you so much. You swear you could cum from this feeling alone, and you almost wanna let him suck you dry. He continues to drain you, carefully keeping track of how much more he needs until he's sated. It's so very tempting to take every last drop of you until there's nothing left. But he won't, he can't do that to you. Just a little more, and he'll be alright again.

A few moments later, Eddie gingerly removes his teeth from your neck. He sits back on his knees, groaning in satisfaction while licking his lips to get every last drop. You see a drip of blood running down his chin, reaching up to wipe it away. He suddenly grabs your wrist, making you gasp in surprise. He stares at the crimson fluid gathered on your thumb, growling lowly at you for 'stealing' his food. He hungrily shoves the thumb into his mouth, rolling his tongue over while making the most inhuman noises. You just watch him breathlessly, seeing him act like a feral animal is definitely doing something for you. Eddie freezes, realizing what he's doing. He lets your hand free, blushing at his behavior. "Sorry." He rubs his neck awkwardly, averting his gaze.

"It's okay, Eds. It's kinda hot, actually." You reply sheepishly, your own cheeks turning red. His eyes flick to yours, a smirk forming on his lips.

"That's right, I forgot about your little vampire fetish." He chuckles, retracing the memory of him dressed up for you in his trailer that one night. What a disaster, he almost killed you when his fang got caught in your windpipe. "Looks like we get a do-over, huh?" Eddie says, finding the choice of 'modifications' Vecna gave him to be an odd coincidence.

"Yeah, and I'm so fuckin' glad we do." You pull him back down, kissing him like your life depends on it. He grunts at the sudden movement, before melting back into you. His hands play with the hem of your t-shirt, wanting to lift it over your head. You sit up against the headboard, letting him remove the clothing. His lips attack your toned chest, nipping your pectorals sensually. "Eddie." You moan, sliding his jackets off his shoulders. He discards them to the floor, removing what's left of his own shirt. You take a moment to look him over, most of his tattoos are gone, having been eaten away and replaced with thick scars.

"They're real ugly, aren't they?" Eddie asks, his tone falling into sadness. You just shake your head, pulling him closer to you so you can kiss every last inch of his pale skin. He groans at your gentle touch, a couple tears rolling down his cheeks. He's so happy you still love every part of him, even if he finds himself a bit horrific.

"You're gorgeous as always, Eddie. My beautiful man." You confess to him, hoping your words ring true in his ears. He grinds his hips against you, unable to help himself. You grope him through his jeans, drawing more hushed noises from his lips.

"Y/N, I need you. Now." He fiddles with your jeans, clumsily unbuttoning them so he can shove his hand inside. You feel his spindly fingers wrap around your dick, making your breath catch in your throat. You gaze into his ruby red eyes, watching him as he strokes your length in his hand. You reach for his belt, undoing it with ease to reciprocate his touch. "Shit." He says through gritted teeth. You both pump each other in your pants, riling yourselves up. This teasing is rapidly becoming unbearable, you don't wanna wait anymore. Eddie shares that sentiment, standing up off the bed to kick off his shoes and shed his pants and boxers. His dick springs up, slapping his stomach.

"Fuck, Eds." You groan, blown away by his perfect body. You put in the effort to take him in, committing every detail to memory. You look him up and down, letting your eyes settle on his aching length. You swear he's grown a couple inches, but maybe you're imagining things.

"See something you like?" He asks, posing intentionally with a hand on his hip to drive you wild.

"I see lots of things I like. Although, one in particular has caught my interest." You can't help biting your lip, watching him undress has distracted you from removing your own clothes. He gestures at you to take off your pants, eagerly scanning over your lower half as you do away with them.

"You're as handsome as I remember, baby. Even more so, in fact." He moves closer, stroking your cheek with the back of his hand. You dangle your legs off the bed, pulling him by the waist to position him a few inches from the bed. You carefully get down on your knees, taking Eddie's dick in your grasp. You look up at him for permission, and he happily gives it to you. "Go ahead, sweetheart." And with that, you sink your mouth down onto him in one smooth motion. He moans, trying to stay quiet. You're so hot and wet around him, his hand instinctively goes to the back of your head to hold you in place. "You feel so good, baby." He praises, making precum drip from you and onto the floor. You gag yourself on him, expertly swirling your tongue just the way he likes. His long nails scratch your scalp, making you moan on him. The vibrations send a chill up his spine, and he can't stop making the sexiest little noises.

You're tempted to jerk yourself off while you blow him, but you force yourself to wait your turn. He'll give you what you want soon enough. "Mmm." You moan against him again, loving every sound he makes in reaction to your touch. You want to make him lose control, he's so fucking pretty when he cums.

He's nearing the end, clutching your head like his life depends on it. "Keep going, love. You're gonna make me cum." Eddie's hips buck forwards into you, choking you with his cock. You let him fuck your face, patiently waiting to taste his load shooting down your throat. You massage his balls in your palm, giving him that extra little bit of stimulation to send him crashing over the edge. "Oh, fuck." Eddie's eyes screw shut, his words coming out strangled as he spills into your mouth. You swallow every last drop, remembering just how good he tastes. You let him ride out his orgasm, and he slips out of your mouth once he calms down. He's panting, slightly sheened in sweat.

"I've missed that so much, you have no idea." You say as you catch your own breath. The acrid air outside hasn't been kind to your lungs when you've ventured out for supplies. You stand up, and Eddie immediately pushes you onto the bed.

"Lay down for me, sweetheart." You do as he asks, but he remains standing. "I just thought of this, like an idiot." He chuckles, before continuing. "You wouldn't happen to have any lube on you, would ya?" He asks, and you shake your head.

"Nope. Although, this is Steve's parents' room. They might have something in the drawers." You proceed to help him dig around in all the drawers, locating a small bottle of exactly what you're looking for. It's half-gone, but it'll do. "Got it!" You show him your prize, and he grins while taking it from you.

"It's our lucky day, love." You get back in position, flat on your back. You spread your legs, propping up your knees. Eddie climbs onto the bed, clicking open the little bottle. "Hold out two fingers." He instructs, and you listen without question. He squirts some of the lube onto them, the cool liquid chilling your skin. "You'll have to loosen yourself up, I'd hate to cut you with my claws." He clicks his fingers together to emphasize his point.

"I appreciate it, Eds." You laugh lightly, letting him watch you lower your fingers. The lube meeting your asshole makes you yelp quietly in shock. It's so fuckin' cold. You carry on, slowly pushing one digit inside yourself. You whimper at the stretch, it's been so long since you've done this. You weren't sure you'd ever do this again, you don't want anyone other than Eddie. "Jesus christ." You meet his gaze, and he's observing you hungrily. He wants to be inside you so badly, you're such a perfect fit around him. You slip in the second finger, groaning again. You slide them together in and out of yourself carefully. You feel your body relaxing, settling back into the groove you used to share with the man crouching above you. "I think I'm ready for you now, love."

He nods, squeezing the bottle into his palm, before stroking it thickly over his dick. "Fuck, that's cold." He says, making you both laugh. You remove your fingers, wiping them on your thigh to get the excess lube off. Eddie positions himself between your legs, placing his tip against your ass. "You ready, sweetheart?" He asks, looking deep into your eyes again. His expression is so warm, and loving. You could swear his red irises changed into the shape of hearts.

"So ready." You reply, waiting for him to enter you. He starts to push in, causing you both to groan. He takes his time, letting you relax around him as he fills you up just like you remember. "I'd forgotten how perfect you fit inside me, Eddie." He takes hold of your own cock, the extra lube allowing his hand to move on you with ease. "Baby, you're gonna be the death of me." The combined sensation he's giving you makes your head spin, and he hasn't even started thrusting yet.

"Never, love." He says simply, pulling himself out before sliding back in. You wrap your arms around his back, holding him close as you press your lips to his. Eddie picks a steady pace, thrusting in and out tenderly. He continues to jerk you off, and slips his tongue into your mouth again. Tension is quickly building inside your belly, you've missed this so fucking much. You can't hold back the tears falling from your eyes, and Eddie pulls his head up when he senses the salty drops on his cheeks. "Is something wrong, baby?" He asks, concern lacing his voice.

"Nothing's wrong. I just missed you, missed this. I never thought I'd see you again, I buried you and left you down there." You sniffle, feeling stupid for sobbing while you're trying to have sex with the man you lost.

"I know, sweetheart. I didn't think I'd ever be back, either. I'm sorry for what I put you through." He starts crying too, drops of blood dripping onto your cheeks. He can only imagine what burying the man you love must be like, and it sounds like the worst thing in the world.

"It's okay. You're here now. Just make love to me, lost time doesn't matter anymore." You sigh heavily, wiping your eyes. He does the same, before picking up where you left off. You push the past away, focusing on the now. The two of you struggle to keep the noise down, having to keep kissing or attacking each other's necks to muffle the sounds. You're practically writhing underneath Eddie, touching every little bit of him you can reach, squeezing his ass to pull him closer to you.

Eddie's not much better, his thrusts are sloppy, inconsistent. You just feel so good, he can't help himself. You both keep it up as best you can, sweating profusely while you claw at each other like wild beasts. "I'm getting close again, baby." Eddie warns, though you don't heed it. You're right behind him, any moment now you'll be overtaken by the pent up lust inside you. You just moan against his slick flesh in response, hoping he knows what you mean. He fucks you a little faster, stroking your cock at the same speed.

"Oh my god. Eddie, fuck!" You whisper-yell, letting pleasure wash over you. Your body jerks upwards beyond your control, yanking on Eddie in the process. Your cum spurts out onto his hand, coating his long fingers and dripping onto your stomach and chest.

Your sudden movements make Eddie come undone right behind you, hips bucking against your ass cheeks as his load paints your insides. "Jesus, fuck." He clenches his teeth, holding back an obscenely loud moan. You ride out your highs together, waiting for the bliss to subside. Your hearts pound in sync as Eddie slips out of you to collapse onto the bed. "God, I love you." He says breathlessly, turning his head to look your way.

"I love you too, Eds. More than anything in the world." You lay on your side, giving him another kiss. You can't get enough of him, and you don't wanna let him go. But you imagine Vecna expects him back soon, thinking Eddie carried out the murders he ordered. "I don't want you to go." You say, desperately wanting him to say 'fuck it' and stay.

"I don't either, love. But I have to, I can feel the thing inside my head trying to fight its way back into control. But I promise, I'll tell Vecna I did what he asked. And then when he thinks he's safe, I'll take his ass out. I'll make him pay for hurting everyone, and for trying to make me hurt you and the others." He's more serious than you've ever seen him before. You nod in agreement, even though you're not sure how easily he'll be able to keep his promise. Like he said, the monster wants back in. And when it's in control, it could easily tell Vecna the truth.

"Okay. Should I tell the others about you? Let them know you're on our side, and want to help us beat Vecna?" You toy with the idea, not sure how the group would respond to such a thing.

"I dunno, it might freak them out. Especially Dustin." Dustin. You completely forgot about him for a moment, and Eddie might be right.

"Maybe I'll just tell a couple people, ones that know to keep their mouth shut? I don't know how long I can keep this to myself. And if someone else knows, maybe it'll be helpful later on." You reason, though you're not sure Eddie will like it.

"That might be a good idea. But they have to keep quiet. It could go very wrong very quickly if I can't keep my hand on the wheel. I'd hate to get everyone's hopes up that I'm alive and on the side of good if it all goes to shit."

"Agreed." You both put your clothes back on, taking many breaks in between to exchange more feverish kisses. You want as much of each other as you can get. Eventually though, Eddie is slinging his guitar back over his shoulders. And now for the hard part, letting him fly back out your window and return to that awful place. Your arms wrap around his neck, and his hands rest on your waist. "Please don't get yourself killed again. Play the part, let the monster out for a while if you need to. I want you back here with me when this is all over. I mean it." You speak with purpose, refusing to have anything outside your desired outcome.

"I'll do everything I can, Y/N. I promise, I'm not going down without a fight. I'll be home again, and we can be happy. Together." He pulls you in for one last kiss, sealing the vow he's made to you. "I love you, baby."

"I love you too, Eds. Now, go kick his slimy ass!" You say, making him chuckle. He pulls away, and you back up a few steps. He slides your window open, jumping silently to the ground. You lean your head out to watch him, observing his wings extending from his back. He turns to wave back at you, blowing you a kiss. You catch it, holding it to your chest. You gaze in awe as he takes a running start in the moonlight, jumping into the air as the wind fluffs his wings. "Wow." You say to yourself, watching the man you love fly gracefully into the night. Let's hope this plan works.

The end.

[artsy-hobbitses]

Is there a pet squad? It seems like every time I see something new about a character, it that they end up with a pet. So like the pet avengers or dc superpers version in ties that bind au a possible thing? Also who on both sides has a pet?

I DID NOT INTEND MOST OF THEM but animals just. Happen to some of these folks XDXD

Lesse...

AUTOBOTS:

Esmeralda the cat (Prowl and Jazz) - Jazz brought her back during one of his missions, Prowl basically became the dad who's like "I don't want pet" and a month later has her riding on his shoulders.

Dakshi the ovcharka (Kup) - Big dumb, big fun and big monstrous when you get him in the mood. Usually found roughousing with the Wreckers.

Molly the cattle dog (Ironhide) - Little dynamo of a dog, absolutely bouncing off the walls since she has no cattle to HERD NOW so she herds people instead.

Dunedan the Irish Setter (Mirage) - An old gentleman like his owner and Mirage's sightdog during hunts.

Avalon's Renaissance the horse (Mirage) - A riding horse who has seen better days and now enjoys leisurely canters with her master through the woods of Alpha Trion's estate.

Bigwig the rabbit (Bumblebee) - Is a gift to Bee from Optimus! Is also a right bastard to anyone not Bee, Bee's friends or OP.

An assortment of medical leeches (Ratchet) Many are named, mostly off famous vampires, and they live in a tempest prognosticator he had specially made for them.

A flock of pigeons (Optimus Prime) All are named and wear tags. OP doesn't have a favorite, and refers to them as his Mantiq Altair.

A murder of crows (Drift) They are not individually named, since Drift doesn't really consider them pets in a traditional sense, he simply feeds them and they see him as a human friend and bring him little gifts as such. However, he does refer to them affectionately as "The Crass Ones", because Sludge once asked him what these birds are called (he has some speech issues from the experimentation done on him and is working on remembering names of things around him) and while Drift told Sludge they were crows, he also told Sludge they were known as 'Karasu' in his language. Sludge misconstrued it as 'crass', became distressed and gently asked them to be kind to the nice man feeding them, and Drift found that so sweet/funny that the name stuck.

Tabiba the dove (First Aid) - A gift for First Aid from her uncle, Hotspot, when she graduated medical school.

Serpico the German Shepherd (Nightbeat) - Was the K9 Nightbeat worked most often with while he was a cop, and when he left to go underground/work from the shadows, he 'liberated' Serpico and Serpico chose to go with him rather than stay at the precinct. Is Nightbeat's scenthound and 'bodyguard' during stakeouts.

Lelaps and Boudicca the Maned-subtype Turbofoxes (Alpha Trion) - These were former sentry hounds of the Quintessons and were freed/reprogrammed by the Primes to help them instead.

DECEPTICONS

Old Fella the Pit Bull (Barricade) - Was rescued from an illegal fighting pit, and has long passed his best days. Was intended to be rehomed, but Barricade grew too attached to him, and with Megatron's blessings, decided to keep him instead.

Najmina the falcon (Skywarp) - Skywarp's pride and joy, and his scout during recon missions.

Buster the Jack Russell (Thundercracker) Your standard Jack Russell Terrorist so named because she would bust everyone's balls (her original name was 'Ballbuster') at Marissa Fairborne's base. With Marissa's encouragement, was adopted by Thundercracker who was feeling lost after leaving the Decepticons and needed an 'anchor'/something to care for while he figured out a new purpose in life.

Mollica the British Shorthair cat (Nickel) - One of those "there is a cat in my house, I do not own a cat" situations. This thing just sauntered into the DJD's quarters, almost slapped Tarn's mask off when he grabbed her and Nickel immediately fell in love and insisted on keeping her if only for her audacity. Her being around Tarn has not endeared him to her one bit

Graymalkin the Sphynx cat (Starscream) - Post war, adopted by Starscream as a companion.

[lizz-crimson]

MK Characters Intro Banter With Monster Hunter Reader! [Part 2]

Hey hey! So wow yall liked the first one so imma give you folks another! Same as last time, gender neutral reader referred to as 'hunter'.

Tags/warnings: Language, monster hunter terminology and references, reader is slightly unhinged.

Characters: Kung Lao, Cassie Cage, Sub Zero, Kitana.

Part 1 Part 3

Kung Lao

You: "What's your hat made out of?"

Kung Lao: A secret Shaolin blend passed down for generations."

You: "Cool. Mines made out of monster guts!"

Kung Lao: "Why do you eat so much?"

You: *Pats your stomach* "For strength and stamina."

Kung Lao: "Don't come crying when you barf it all up."

You: "Your hat versus my gunlance?"

Kung Lao: "I'm sorry, your what now?"

You: "Exactly what I said! Prepare yourself, Hat Trick!"

Kung Lao: "What was that monster called again? The panther-dragon thing."

You: "A Nargacuga."

Kung Lao: "Think you could give me its wing blades?"

Cassie Cage

Cassie Cage: "Whoever wins gives the other uppies."

You: "Why do I feel like you're gonna loose on purpose?"

Cassie Cage: "Oh please, it's not like you'll have trouble picking me up anyway!"

Cassie Cage: "Hammer time!"

You: "Exactly."

Cassie Cage: "Please PLEASE put that thing away!"

You: "Nice armor, Cassie!"

Cassie Cage: "Thanks, yours is badass too!"

You: "Wanna trade fashion tips?"

You: "C'mon, I'm more than ready to fight!"

Cassie Cage: "That fucking tyrannosaurus had you in its mouth like ten minutes ago!"

You: "It was an Anjanath. It happens."

Sub Zero

Sub Zero: "So you are the monster hunter I've heard so much about?"

You: "Indeed I am!"

Sub Zero: "Come. See how you do against somebody your own size."

You: "Fought a Goss Harag that looked just like you back in my novice hunts."

Sub Zero: "I do not appreciate your 'complement'."

You: "And that Goss Harag didn't appreciate my switch axe."

You: "Say Sub Zero, what do you think of my bracelet?"

Sub Zero: "I do not have an eye for jewelry."

You: "You will once the ice resistance kicks in."

Sub Zero: "You have no scars despite your battles."

You: "Uh, thanks? Your scar is nice..?"

Sub Zero: "I intend to give you your first."

Kitana

Kitana: "That sword is much to large for you."

You: "Not its not! See, I can pick it up just fine."

Kitana: "..Perhaps I could hire you to help with some bothersome Outworld fauna."

You: "Sorry I'm late for our match Kitana.."

Kitana: "Considering the beast you were fighting, you have good reason."

You: "Yeah.. Tobi-Kadachi really like to show up outta nowhere."

You: "How much does Outworld ore go for?"

Kitana: "A pretty penny. More than you'd have on your person, I'm sure."

You: "Don't be so sure, Miss Kahn. I've got zenny falling out of my walls."

Kitana: "What is the feline behind you doing?"

You: "Oh that's my palico! He carries explosives for me!"

Kitana: "Your versatility continues to impress."

------

Here yall go! Hope you enjoyed these! I have some stories in the works as well!

And here are the monsters again in collage form again

[tenthgrove]

Reverse Engineering the OIAR Tagging System: Part 2

I've had another look at things and I have managed to create a more concrete theory for how the tags work, though at this stage I would be very surprised if it were all correct.

A reminder for the unfamiliar- every TMAGP statement comes with a long code, consisting of a CAT (category?), R (rank? - two statements do not have this), a four digit number which seems to be totally random, and the dates of both the statement's origin, and when the episode is set.

I've created this theory by identifying patterns between the CAT and R values and the themes, characters and dates of the statements. It is clear we need some more statements to be sure, so I will update this as new episodes come in. That said, here is my theory.

CAT = Is the Monster an External and/or Being Actively Taken Advantage of by the OIAR?

CAT 1 = Yes. CAT 2 = No, but there are plans to acquire it. CAT 3 = No, and there are no plans to acquire it. CAT 23 = The monster possesses some special quality which the OIAR would like to take advantage of, but currently has no means to do this (hence making it both a CAT 2 and 3 in a sense).

Our only confirmed external, Mr Bonzo, is a CAT 1. The two other CAT 1s are monsters that could very well function as OIAR assassins. Granted, Needles seems to be killing for his own pleasure and seems very ‘green’. BUT- how in the living hell did he murder a man on the streets of London and it wasn’t national news? Maybe, just maybe, Needles was recruited as a result of that incident and the OIAR pulled strings to clean up his mess. Additionally, two of the CAT 1s are delivered literally days before we learn of them. One is older but refers to Bonzo, who we know for a fact is still active. The other was delivered in May 2022. All these statements are live matters, referring to beings who are almost certainly still out there making body counts.

Moving down to the lower rankings, the current CAT 2s are plant guy, Vouyer, the charity shop volunteers and the backrooms service station. These are all statements that leave huge question marks. None of them are delivered by a primary source. They are all 1-15 year old statements. This could mean the OIAR is trying to locate the beings within the statement to potentially take advantage of them, but have not yet tracked them down.

The current CAT 3s are InkSoul, the violin guy, and the bone dice guy. Violin and dice guy are both dead, and the dice were presumably lost in the destruction of the Magnus Institute. It’s clear why the OIAR wouldn’t be interested in them. Now what about InkSoul? Well there are a number of reasons why the OIAR would not want to recruit them. Maybe their power is not reliable? After all, it seemed the effect they had on their victim in the statement was linked to her being an artist. Maybe they’ve already tried to recruit InkSoul and it didn’t go well. Or maybe InkSoul has become inactive since the statement in 2022.

Now, what about CAT 23? I’m really not sure about this one (there are only two CAT 23s so far, one of which is the Red Canary statement) so my theory here is a stand-in. I previously suggested CAT 23 could refer to dimensional cracks and it’s possible that is also the case. It could be that CAT 23 IS the ‘Magnus Protocol’, and that ‘Magnus’ doesn’t specifically mean ‘pertaining to the Magnus Institute’ but ‘pertaining to the Magnus Institute or similar known cracks in reality, of which the Magnus Institute is the one we know most about’. It could be that the OIAR has an active interest in manipulating dimensional cracks but hasn’t yet figured out how, and CAT 23 is created to reflect this.

R = How Useful is this Monster to the OIAR?

A = Frighteningly powerful, possibly equivalent in its impact to the rituals. AB = Between A and B value. B = Pretty useful, but not going to massively improve the OIAR's position by itself. BC = Between B and C value. C = Not especially useful for the OIAR's purposes. Unranked = Value either not investigated or pending investigation. We have no Rank As thus far, and the only rank AB, the Red Canary statement, is widely believed by fans to be the most crucial piece of the puzzle so far to the wider mystery. I believe the first rank A statement is going to be truly massive.

Current Rank Bs include Bonzo and Needles, as well as the bone dice and the Voyuer movie. Bonzo is a known OIAR assassin and as above, Needles very well could be/could become one if the OIAR wanted that for him. However, they can't exactly take down society. Equally, the dice and the movie have limitations that only allow them to target one person at a time - the dice only affect the person who rolls them and the movie relies on only having one audience member to customise itself for.

The Rank Cs are, so far, just the charity volunteers and the ship tattoo. I admit this may be the weakest part of the theory as it's not clear how these two are 'useless', especially if CAT 23 means what I theorise above. Maybe Rank Cs are useful to study but not important to the main goals of the OIAR, whatever they be.

The two unranked statements are the plant guy and the violin. The violin statement could be unranked because it is just that old, and the plant guy could be unranked for a number of reasons. Maybe he is CAT 2 because the OIAR want to study him, but they don't actually have a use for the anomaly that sired him.

Conclusion

As you can see there are various weaknesses to the theory and I would be very surprised if it turns out to be entirely right. The biggest gap right now is the rank C/unranked theories which are not entirely apparant why they're so low. If Protocol is anything like Archives, almost all these monsters will be revisited, so reasons for their placements could still be revealed to us. I am fairly certain the OIAR already knows more about most of them than is let on. I will revisit this theory as more information becomes known.

[zephyrstargame]

well here's something I can do!

this is a little spin on an idea i've been seeing around that i think is wonderful... I personally, am not in the best financial place to be donating, but i can use my platform as a game developer to help out and do something cool at the same time :3

In exchange for donating esims to gaza, I'm gonna populate the world of Zephyr Star with your characters as NPCs! currently: OPEN!!

Here's the deal-- scurry on over to gazaesims.com to figure out how to buy and donate an esim to the people who need em-- any plan works for me, as long as you're gettin something out there!

then slip into my DMs (or anywhere else you can contact me directly) and show me a screenshot of the email, preferably with timestamps for proof that it's from after this post was posted... or really, any proof that you did do the thing-- also show me:

a reference image for what character you want me put in the game

what this character should say as an NPC (just a few lines at most) (optional; if you'd like i can just write some general dialogue instead)

how you would like to be credited in the in-game credits (ie what name i should put)

below the cut are some submission guidelines and extra notes, please also read that if you're interested :>

here are some general submission guidelines:

nothing too lewd, please!

or racist

or otherwise offensive

fandom ocs MIGHT be fine if they're Legally Distinct enough from the source material, but try not to get me sued here

In general, this game's world has No Humans, but that's not a strict requirement-- just a general suggestion

and keep in mind that characters with super intricate details might have to be simplified in order to work as pixel art

otherwise, anything works! furries, robots, sentient objects, your cat, whatever

and here's some notes, so you know what to expect:

i'll take anywhere between a few hours to a few days to finish, depends on how i'm feeling... either way, i'll tag you in a new post when i'm done!

the character will be done in small pixel art, with maybe some additional effects if i feel it works for the design

i will adjust the sprite size depending on the character-- an average sized character is drawn on a 32x32 canvas but if it's like a giant or really tall or something, i'd make it bigger so that the scale is accurate

everyone also gets a zoomed in headshot for the dialogue portrait

no secret bosses, shopkeepers, or other special story purpose for now, sorry! these are just some guys that stand around and say 1 or 2 lines as you go about your adventure

im putting the characters in various places at random, but if you want your guy to be in a certain type of location in-game let me know

this game is STILL in relatively early development-- but i do promise that each and every submission will be in there by the end! it might take yeaaaars for the full game to finally be out, but i'll be posting screenshots as I put em in the game so you know im not slacking around :>

and alongside the screenshot, i'll also post the sprites on their own if you'd like to save them for yourself

legal stuff uhhhhh im not good at legal stuff-- by participating, you are giving me permission to use your submitted character in the final game-- credit will be given in-game where you would expect to see it (the credits) and i will not claim ownership of any of your guys

(cartoon mafia boss voice) if at any point you want your character scrubbed out of the game, or you want anything changed, let me know in my DMs or anywhere else you can contact me and *click* *sinister laugh* we'll make it happen

no money goes to me ever, im not even gonna be the middlesnake between you and the esims-- i just think its less of a hassle to work this way -w-

did i get everything? i think that's everything... if i forgot something important sorry i'm a scatterbrain failgirl who has never done anything like this before im trying my best okay

may the rift be filled with your cool little guys! but more importantly, let's keep gaza connected! free palestine! 🍉

[yukirayu]

You've mentioned disliking bad translations no matter whetter official or fan-made, and gave the example of Mink in the DMMD fanpatch. Can you elaborate? Did he get the Madarame treatment?

Yes, that's true. And it doesn't even have to be bad in terms of adding too many cuss words or country-specific slang or changing POV or anything else. All in all, the DMMD fan patch did follow the original narration viewpoint (since it's always been in first person) both in the first game and in the sequel. And yes, there are some slang and cursing in those too (like referring to Clear's pockets as Mary Poppins) but it's still kept to a manageable level that while I noticed it, it never truly bothered me.

Though back when Tumblr was still big, as I got into DMMD, it came to my attention as I checked tags and posts of other DMMD fans that the fanmade patch - which I am grateful to one way or another for getting me into the VN - really and I mean really had it out for Mink.

One thing is definitely certain, Mink's route in the first game is definitely not the easiest to swallow (like Madarame's) and his ending in the fandisc sequel does address the why behind that. Whether fans like or dislike him at the end of that is for them to decide.

But the fan patch team loathed Mink enough that they considered leaving him out of the translations entirely. When they eventually decided to include him, they basically had him talk very rudely (when he is to the point and forthright, but there's a difference between that and him spewing harsh and condescending insults), alter the narration (which again, is from Aoba's POV) to make the whole story sound like a classic case of Stockholm Syndrome (which let me stress, is nothing of the sort and is already its own can of worms) - both of which they ramped up to eleven in the sequel, where the two are meant to clear the air between them and find closure about what happened and then truly get together afterwards - all so that the fans can view him with the same disdain that they have of him.

It all boils down to "I see the plot/characters this way, and I will let that view affect how I word the text so that I can influence the readers/players to think similarly of it". Which what the fan patch team did with Mink, and in a way, also what the localization did with Slow Damage, since now Towa gets characterized as what others have called an "edgy gooner" when that's missing the point of his story entirely (which is also part of the overarching plot). While that could still have happened even with a good translation that was released from the beginning, since fandoms like to reduce characters to a meme/joke, for better or worse.

Back to Mink, there are a few other posts here on Tumblr (I doubt it is all of them) that point out how his route was tampered with on purpose, and I'll just share those links here for your reference: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3. Someone even attempted to retranslate Mink's route in the first game (alas, it never got completed, but it does manage to cover at least half of his route).

Needless to say, it got bad enough that many have suggested reading the alternate fan translation of the sequel (which was made before the fan patch came out) instead, since it isn't prejudiced against Mink. Now I do wish to make it clear here that the point about what happened with Mink's route isn't about having the characters like/dislike Mink, but about the importance of not letting one's bias affect the text, something that can be ignored in both fanmade and official translations.

Ah, I almost forgot, but yeah. In a way, Madarame got a similar treatment. Madarame talks bluntly and casually as well, but the Japanese text doesn't have him cuss every sentence or every other sentence. And whatever crudeness is in the text in other routes, it definitely is a lot more magnified in Madarame's route. And all even that aside, there's also one context that was notably changed in the very opening his route.

Like in that last sentence. From the original, you'd think that he's denying that he's acting for the sake of revenge and dismisses that as pathetic. Though the patched version implies that he does seem intent on revenge (even if he doesn't say it to Towa or denies it to Toono's face when Toono asks if that's what he's been doing) and that it isn't pathetic to do. Of course, this is just one example. And it doesn't change that even with a professional translation, Madarame's route is still also the bleakest and the one that's most tough-as-nails, but context always matters.

If anything, a good way of showing how the patch and the localization differ would be to record both versions from beginning to end and play them side by side.

[katyspersonal]

Here’s a triple whammy, Midra, Messmer, Rellana for the character bingo pls?

( @izunias-meme-hole )

Ohh bitchin'

God I just.. I will have to try to not turn it into an essay for your SANITY (ba dum tss) but in simplest terms possible, this was THE peak DLC experience for me. The Abyssal Woods already were super interesting and atmospheric, as well as learning that Midra is a NERD with so many books all over his Manse. But like.. the battle already captivated me a lot. It was just.. so well-done in every aspect. The music, the movements and attacks... No boss ever deserved the staple "battle feels like a dance once you get into it" praise more than this guy. ;-; I already was not normal about Frenzied Flame in general, but this just dhfssdfg It was so well executed god. Remember being OBSESSED with his music theme, also the first character in a while to make me often check his character tag on Tumblr. @val-of-the-north won't let me lie, I was literally drooling thinking about him in the first few days after that fight and could not think of anyone else @_@

Also I really enjoyed digging further into his story and motivations, what happened here with the Three Fingers and Nanaya. Analysis of the whole SoTe for me. This brand of despair also appeals to me at all, especially when it is tied to you and your associates being hunted like heretics (only the old ones remember!!! XD). Funny enough, just the day before I've met him in the game I've had a very unique mental breakdown where I was ranting like a madman about how much I've tired of holding the horrors and pain inside and how I wanted to just give up and unleash it. I can't get into too much details, it was very personal, however the phrase "May chaos take the world" was stuck in my head all along! And Val mentioned that 'interestingly enough, a theme like this IS addressed in SoTE' + 'you kin one of the characters for sure' so... yeah, that was something. I needed a character like this quite a lot :')

Messmer is AWESOME!! I do not obsess actively but rather just reblog the fanart and stuff that gets on my dashboard, but there are SO many things I said as my thoughts about his and Marika's relationship. And now I have even more to say! You could tell I love Midra more, but Messmer offers infinitely more to talk about and explore! And, god, his charisma, having attracted so many intelligent people to join him and even accept his serpentine nature (apparently a big no for people in the setting for some reason fdjjfds). Also one of the best designs in the Soulsborne series EVER. Also it is his voice actor's DEBUT! Literally HOW????? sfhdjhsdhgfdshds

It IS, for sure, hard to talk about him and not touch upon MANY other characters as he is tied with them so much. Marika, Melina, Fire Knights (especially Queelign), closest Black Knights that ditched him, Rellana, Gaius, Winged Snakes, god knows who else... I love how many relationship he has, but also what interesting potential he opened for exploring the lore with Abyss, Base Serpent and potentially Fell God! He is so many things. And I think this is appropriate how hard it is to discuss him outside of his relationships and curses... It is just like the character himself: having his life and purpose in it basically predefined by a curse he had no control over and his mother, and being a scourge or an idol for others, but barely being a person on his own... Discussions about him are JUST like him, you see what I mean? This also makes me emotional.

I do not have that many headcanons about her, but I am proud of those that I have! x) There is always the room to create more of course! Ok naturally 'everyone else is wrong about them' is not meant to be taken seriously fdshfhds But a big cornerstone for understanding her was the description of her swords referring to Moon and Fire having always been together in Japanese original script, which is just the sentiment from Sword of Night and Flame! So I can no longer see her as huge Erdtree/Marika simp at all, but instead as someone who, although without any hard feelings for her sister's choice, believes Cosmic Sorcery and Fire should be together (again) which makes me look at other takes like:

Just the curse of getting brain hard-locked on your interpretation fdshfhds On another note, I fucking LOVE her design, I am NOT able to enjoy any other armour anymore and just want to wear hers all the time fhhfsd 'Silly' because Twin Moons IS a silly concept, as well as cosplaying Sulyvahn XD ...but also because I see her as silly and fun person, to contrast Messmer's emo vibe x) Smug about kicking asses too! She gives me this strange feeling too, like... I can accept most of the bosses having to die for the plot and narrative, but thinking about her getting killed actually upsets me! She is an optional boss and should STAY as such. #rellanaplslive

[multi-fandom-simp]

My soul, my heart, my fault

Part 1/3

Jacearys Velaryon x Velaryon!Reader (platonic, sisterly), Lucerys Velaryon x Velaryon!Reader(Platonic, sisterly), Aemond Targaryen x Velaryon!Reader(mentioned throughout)

-Reader is Laenor's legitimate child in both past and present parts of this fic.-

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the House of The Dragon or Fire & Blood characters. I do not claim any of them as my own. This work is purely fictional.

Summary: What's dead, is supposed to stay dead. However, the fates decide to make an exception in the case of your younger sibling's unjust deaths. You, who lived through the dance of the dragons, are brought back for the soul purpose of watching them grow again...or perhaps it was die again, you couldn't quite remember. (This will be a three part series)

Side Note: The areas in italics are memories, or moments of the past.

❗TW❗: Mentions of character death and actual character death, murder, angst, blood, incest?(I mean reader was Aemond's niece in past mentions), angst

(A/N: Hello! This is the first HOTD fic I've posted where the reader has a set house and set parent, but nonetheless I am not forcing you to imagine those specifics as their appearance. The reader's legitimate father in this story is Laenor. Simply because I feel like I don't see enough stories/fics with a true Velaryon reader. That being said, if you have any other fic Recs or even requests that involve a Velaryon reader, please send them my way👀. I've also thought about making a series involving a pair of Velaryon twins, so I'd love to know if anyone would be interested in that. Aside from my rambles, I tagged this as both Velaryon reader and just reader so that people may read it if they please. As always, I love to hear your thoughts and see your reactions, enjoy!)

Word Count: 3,924

“Kepus” Your small voice echoed overtop the waves that surrounded your father. 

Laenor, who had been previously focused on the sea turned at your call,“ Yes, Tala”

You stumbled through the water until you were able to cling to his side,“ Why do they whisper about Jace and Luke?” 

“ Because your brothers are different” Your father explained softly. His hand swept lovingly over the back of your head as you gazed up at him. 

“ How so?”

His hands came down to cradle your face,“ It matters not. What matters, is that they are still your brothers. You must not let the whispers get between you and them.”

“ Nothing could ever take me from them, Kepa, I promise” Your tone was fierce, just like the blood that ran through your veins. Laenor smiled and squatted to your level, paying no mind to the water that soaked his clothes. He seemed to study you for a second as if he was committing the moment to memory. 

Finally, he took a breath to speak,“ That’s good because you must protect them, Tala. You are their big sister, their fate rests with you.”

“ I can no-” Your father was quick to spot your hesitancy. The hands that once held your face now held your hands. While his features remained soft, fear was evident in his eyes. 

“ -You must have no doubts. Doubts lead to death, and fate is already not on your side. Heed my words, Tala, history will repeat itself,” Whether or not he was referring to him and Laena or you and the boys, you’ll never know. What you did know was that history indeed would repeat itself.

In 129 AC, you watched your brother Lucerys Velaryon die, and in 2006 you welcomed him as he was born again as your cousin. Three-year-old you was immensely confused on why these people kept referring to him as your cousin, but as you got older you came to the realization that no one else remembered who they were and that things were different. Whilst Laenor Velayron remained your father, Rhaenyra Targaryen was not your mother. In all honesty, you were not sure who your mother was. One thing was for certain though, your brothers had been taken from you. They now grew up in a different house with no memories of all you did for them eons ago. It was as if fate itself had placed a curse on you. Still, you weren’t one to let the gods dictate your life. Once your eleventh birthday came around, you begged Nyra to let you babysit the two youngest boys. She agreed without hesitation and suddenly you were back to seeing the boys almost every other day rather than in the summers. You thought you had outsmarted time and fate themselves. Six years went by and you had managed to watch the boys grow without problems. Well aside from the fact that your father and Viserys had agreed that you and Aemond would be together for the sake of both the Velaryon and Targaryen dynasties. That was six months ago, and everything had started to decline since then. Your father had mysteriously vanished, Rhaenyra’s husband Harwin had died, and tensions between the families were at an all-time high. It wasn’t Aemond’s fault per se, he was a great partner, but you knew how this went. In the end, you would be torn between his family and your own. More specifically between your brothers and him. The mere thought of it all happening again sent your stomach into knots. If only there were a way to prevent everything, prevent time from repeating itself. Maybe then you could save your brother-

" Hellooo, are you there? Hey-" Your thoughts vanished as Jace came into view. Were you having a nightmare again? No, surely not in the middle of the day, not while the boys were here.

The realization of your whereabouts sat you upright, forcing your eyes to the couch where you had last left the youngest boys, who still sat there much to your relief,"-Shit, sorry! Did I space off again?"

"You looked like you were asleep with your eyes open, to be honest," Jace snorted, his hair was wet and a gym bag hung from his shoulder, " Rough night?"

His question was answered with a groan as you laid your cheek against the cool countertop, "I’ll take that as a yes?"

"Every night is a rough night when you have nightmares like mine" You mumble between the space in your arms, “Do you ever have weird dreams, Jace?” 

Jace sat beside you, mirroring the position you had slumped into. You turned your face towards him as he spoke, "I had a dream once where I was in archery club...but I was naked, like bare as can be-"

"-You can not be serious"

"Oh but I am, and my grandfather's creepy friend Otto was the teacher. It was definitely weird, but I didn't lose sleep over it" Jace shrugged.

" Why are you guys talking like that?" Both you and Jace lift your heads to face Luke. The curly-haired boy stood on the other side of the kitchen island with his eyebrows raised.

You shrugged, “Why are you not talking like this?” 

“ Because I’m a normal human being?” He questioned sarcastically, “ anyways, while I have the attention-”

“You always have the attention” Jace scoffs.

You nod in agreement,“ Mhm, it’s because he’s the favorite.”  

“ Can I talk or..” Luke stands there staring at the two of you patiently, much like his mother would. Actually, it reminds you of the first time Nyra caught you sneaking the boys into the kitchens during the hour of the owl. 

“You must be very quiet. Some say the kitchen maids have special abilities that let them know food has been stolen” You whisper to the boys with a suppressed grin. Each of them held lemon tarts as you securely closed the door. 

Luke’s doe eyes widen with fear, “Do you think they’re witches? Will they curse us?” 

“ The kitchen maids are not the ones you should be worried about” The three of you whipped around at the sound of your mother’s voice. She stood tall in the firelight, a red robe covering her as she stared down expectantly. 

A nervous grin stretched across your features, “ Muna! We were just collecting lemon tarts to bring to you!” 

“ You know, your father has this knack for flattering me when he’s trying to cover a lie. It would be a shame for my daughter to try and do the same” She hummed suspiciously. 

“ I would never!” You cringed as you realized how identical you sounded to your kepa, “Alright, we were trying to sneak lemon tarts for ourselves, but it won’t happen again! ” 

“ If you were still hungry, you should have told me so. Now, Jace, Luke, take the tarts to your chambers and go to bed please.” The boys bid Rhaenyra a good night and took off down the hall swiftly. 

Your fingers fiddled with your nightdress nervously, “ I’m sorry, I did not mean to cause trouble.” 

“ Oh my heart, you did not cause trouble. It is natural to sneak out at a young age, but you need to be careful here. There are people in this world who seek to hurt your brothers, and you must be their protector.” She cooed, her thumb stroking your cheek. 

The fire in your eye returned once more, “ No one will hurt them. Not while I’m by their side.” 

“-I’m starting to think she had a medical condition at this point” It was Jace once again who pulled you from the past, but with Luke beside him this time. The two of them both stared at you with confusion. The dry itch in your eyes became apparent as you came back into focus. 

“ Maybe she’s just tired from dealing with Aemond all the time-”

You cut off Luke’s jest with a groan, “ Okay, can we not start up the hate train for my boyfriend today? I was just daydreaming, good gods.” 

“ No need to start the train up when it was never off in the first place” Jace spoke teasingly. Any rebuttals that were set to come from your mouth were ceased by the constant buzzing from your phone, which laid on the counter for everyone to see. 

Luke’s eyes bugged at the sight of Aemond’s contact,“ ñuha zaldrīzes?! You call him your drag-”

“Shut up!” You reached over to slap a hand over his mouth as you answered the phone, “ Aem, hey, what’s going on?” 

“What’s going on? Have you looked at the time recently?” looking over to the clock, your face fell. It was twenty past seven, which meant you were twenty minutes late to your dinner with Aemond. 

“I thought you would be here as soon as Jace got home, has he not arrived yet?” From beside you, Jace held a thumbs up, as if he was allowing you to use him as an excuse. 

“He was a little late getting home and then we got to talking and I just-”

Aemond’s sigh drowned out your words, “-Lost track of time, yeah. It seems like that happens a lot when you’re with them.” 

The boy’s watched as you visibly deflated, “Aemond, that’s not fair.” 

“ Not fair? You constantly put me second to them. I am- your husband and lover. Sooner or later you will have to choose, either me or them, and I will not tolerate a bastard being put before me. Not in this lifetime or the next.” 

“You are being unreasonable, Aemond!”

“ The unreasonable one is you! There is a war afoot and you insist on playing both sides. If you think this will end in a happy ever after..then you’re- mistaken. Are you even listening? Hello?” Time was running out and you could feel it. The last time Aemond had spoken those words, Luke had ended up dead hours later. With fear clouding your judgment you hung up without another word. Which probably didn’t help the situation, but what else could you do? Tell Luke what you thought would happen? No, he was only fifteen, he would be terrified. You couldn’t tell Jace, because as close as the two of you were he would still think you’re crazy. And Aemond, he was absolutely out of the question. Accusing him of something like that would drive the wedge further between the two of you. 

“ You must protect them, Tala. You are their big sister, their fate rests with you.” What if I don’t know how? 

“There are people in this world who seek to hurt your brothers, and you must be their protector” How can I be their protector when I brought the danger to them? Is it me? Am I the variable that needs to be changed? What if I take Luke’s place? 

“ Luke-” Your throat tightened as you looked forward. The spot Luke previously stood in was empty, as was Jace’s spot beside you, “ Luke?!”

 Jace reappeared from behind you,“ He went out to ride his bike.”

Confusion and worry clouded your eyes,“ It’s raining, he can’t possibly ride in this weather?!”  

Jace shrugged, “I suppose the rain didn’t matter after he heard your conversation with Aemond.” 

“Wha-” Fear suffocated your heart like a python. He wouldn’t confront Aemond over a silly argument, would he? 

“ Before you ask, no I did not just let him walk out the door to go confront our sociopathic uncle. He isn’t that fast of a peddler, so I’ll just catch up to him in the car” You snatched the keys from Jace’s hand before he could even finish his next thought. 

“ Hey-”

“- This is my fault, I’ll fix it” You spoke while making a beeline for the front door, “ I promise I’ll bring the car back in one piece, and Luke too!” You didn’t wait for Jace to reply, there was no need. Nothing he could say would change your mind. 

The rain barely touched you, that’s how fast you had made it to the car. You used one hand to whip out onto the street as your other hand pulled up Aemond’s contact. It rang four, five times before going to voicemail. You tried again and again to no avail before it finally went through. 

“ Hello? Aemond?” Your voice was as shaky as the car on the slick roads. 

“ Are you going to hang up on me again?” His tone was short, meaning he was upset. 

“ No, I was just overwhelmed-” The familiar click of a turning signal sounded throughout the car, but you weren’t turning, “ Aemond, please tell me you’re at home.” 

“ I’m not. I’m on my way to pick you up” Oh gods. You couldn’t do this, not now. Why was it all happening so fast? 

“ I’m not there. I went out to look for Luke. Just go back home and I will meet you there” You pleaded, which was entirely out of character for you. 

“I’m not far-”

“-Aemond, please! Just this once, listen to me” You hoped the urgency in your voice would persuade him to listen. Alas, it did not, and part of you knew it wouldn’t. 

“The rain is too thick to turn back now. I can barely see anything as it is” Aemond argued, “ I’ll wait at the boy’s house until you get back. I promise I won’t do anything, I won’t even get out of the car.” 

Your fear regressed a little. If Aemond was out of the way, then nothing could possibly happen. This could work, or so you thought. Straight ahead, racing through the storm was Lucerys. He was completely drenched from what you could tell and barely pedaling straight. You hit the brakes and jumped out of the car. 

“ Luke, get in the car!” The storm roared loudly over your voice, but he still managed to hear you. 

Luke shook his head, “ I won’t let him treat you like that, not again.” 

“What do you mean not again?” That’s when you noticed, Luke’s eyes were different, older, “You remember, don’t you?” 

He nodded slowly, unsurely, “ When Aegon hit my head against the table at dinner last week it all came flooding back. I thought they were dreams at first, but then I noticed how different you acted. How you had changed then to now.” 

“ You never said anything”

“I didn’t know that you remembered, I’m sorry” He apologized through chattering teeth. 

You smiled softly, “ It doesn’t matter anymore, just come with me. Let me take you back home.” 

That’s when Luke’s own smile fell, “ I can’t. I ran away from him the first time, but not this time.” 

“ That wasn’t your fault, Luke. I was the one who told you to run, so please, just- take my hand!"

"I won't leave Arrax!" Luke screamed from below you, ignoring the hand that you held down towards him. 

"Vhagar is set to kill Arrax. You must take my hand Lucerys, please!" Eyes as green as sea moss flashed through the heavy downpour like lightning. Eyes that held fear that chilled your bones more than the freezing rain. Next came the hand, the hand that held scars from dragon riding yet looked as soft as a handful of clouds. You reached for it amidst the haze, only it never seemed to get any closer.

“Reach further-” and that’s when you saw it, rather than when you saw him. It was Aemond atop Vhagar who appeared in what seemed like a split second. Your heartbeat quickened and you reached for Lucerys once more, except something was blinding you this time- headlights, that’s what was in your way. The beams of light raced down the street with no intention of slowing down. You would be worried about them hitting you if Luke wasn’t in between their path and you. Like before, you weren’t fast enough. Every step you took towards your brother seemed to push him father away. 

“Lucerys, Move!” Your screams mingled with his as he turned too late. In what seemed like slow motion you watched as Luke rolled atop the car as it completely mangled his bike. Much to your horror, the driver slammed on their brakes, propelling Luke forward.

“No!” Your feet were moving before your brain could even process what happened, “ No, no, no, please no.” 

The pavement cut into your knees as you knelt beside Luke. You pulled his head to rest on your knees, paying no mind to the blood that soaked through your pants. His eyes were open, yet lifeless. The vibrant green that they held before now shone as a dull gray. You leaned down to place your ear on his chest. Nothing. Not a single sound. 

“ Lucerys please, you can’t leave me again, “ Your tears mixed with the rain, “ Come back to me, Ñuha prūmia” 

“ You did well, Ñuha prūmia. Do not fret” Your sincere words traveled in one ear and out the other for Lucerys. Jace had beaten him at dueling practice yet again. 

He scrunched his nose as your endearment, “ Must you call me that? It sounds girly.”

“It is a simple endearment, I mean no harm to your pride. I refer to you as my heart in the same manner that I call Jacaerys my soul” You explain softly, reaching over to ruffle his curls. 

“What is Joffrey then?” 

“I’m not sure,” You hum in thought, “ Perhaps he is my mind.” 

He peers up at you in curiosity, “Which of the three would you say that you can not live without?” 

“Mhm, my heart would be the answer. I fear I’d go mad if I ever lost you.” His cherubic smile faded to a bloody gasp. The sight alone smothered out the fire in your heart and set off a drum in your skull. 

“ Is he alright? I couldn’t see him through the rain. I swear- oh gods…” Whilst still regaining focus where you sat on Storms End Avenue, you looked up to see none other than Aemond Targaryen speaking to you through the rain. His hair lay limp against his face, almost covering the grim expression he held, which seemed to darken as you came into view. You gently laid Lucerys’s head on the road below before standing on shaky legs. 

“ Don’t. Don’t you dare tell me it was an accident, not again” You advanced toward Aemond until the tip of your finger dug into his chest. The patience you once had now worn thin and making way for eons of repressed anger and guilt. 

Confusion danced across Aemond’s face, “ Again? What are you talking about-”

“Stop acting like you do not know!” You screamed, shoving him backward, “ I am tired of everyone acting like they know nothing when everything else is happening according to the past!” 

“We can talk this out, just calm down” Aemond almost sounded like he was pleading as he reached out for you, but in truth, Aemond never pleaded to anyone. Not even the woman he claimed to love. 

"Calm down?! I am to watch my brothers be murdered AGAIN and you want me to CALM DOWN?! You are wrong if you think I will sit by an.. and.. a-", the longer you stood, the worse your vision got. At this point, the pounding in your head had gotten so loud that your vision swayed. Through the dark spots blotting your eyes, you could see silhouettes of dragons dancing in the clouds and the water surrounding you turning red. Everything began to feel weightless, except your head of course. 

“ Woah, hey” Aemond was there to catch you as you crumbled, “ Keep your eyes open for me, okay? I’m going to call for help, but I need you to stay awake.” 

You tried to stay awake, you really did, but it was all too much. The weight of it all dragged you into the darkness without a fight. It was hours before you awoke, and when you did it was in a hospital bed. A warm weight against your leg is the first thing your brain registers. Well, that and the blinding white hue of the hospital walls. 

"Luke.." your throat was dry and scratchy, almost as if you had been screaming for days. Your eyes surveyed the room wearily until they landed on Jace. He must have been the warmth you were feeling. His arms lay atop the bed next to you, crossed snuggly beneath his head. You could tell the skin around his eyes was puffy and red despite them being closed. He had been crying, but over what? Was it Luke? Had last night not been just another nightmare of the past? You reached out, brushing against Jacaerys arm lightly, but still firm enough to rouse him from his sleep. 

His eyes fluttered for a moment before fully snapping open, "You're awake!" 

" I don't remember falling asleep.." you spoke in true confusion. 

Jace's eyes seemed to soften, whether or not it was in pity or sadness you did not know," You didn't fall asleep, you collapsed. Aemond brought you in-"

" and Luke? " A part of you couldn't help but be hopeful. If you couldn't remember passing out, then perhaps Luke's death was a hallucination of your foggy memory as well. Even if the look in Jace's eyes already told you differently. 

" They said he was dead upon impact. Aemond killed him." your heartbeat picked up on the monitor as Jace spoke, "I know it's not what you want you to hear, and that you love Aemond, but it's true."

"Aemond claims that he didn't see him in time. That the rain made the roads too slick and that he lost control of the car, but he’s lying" Jace seethed, paying no mind to your reaction. 

"Jace-" 

His eyes held fire and the smallest hint of disbelief as they flickered back to you, "Please don't defend him. Whatever you're going to say, just don't. My mother has already retaliated and I've opened a lawsuit against Aemond. There's nothing else you can say."

" You don't know that unless you let me speak" You waited for a beat of silence before continuing, "I was not going to defend Aemond. On the contrary, I was going to tell you that it wasn't an accident. It's just like before."

Jace s eyes widened, " Like before? Has Aemond killed someone else?" 

You shake your head quickly, "No, not this lifetime. You misunderstand, I'm talking about when he killed Lucerys the first time."

" I'm not sure what you're talking about. None of this has ever happened before-"

The patience you once had before Lucerys's death is now long gone, "-Yes it has! You just have to remember, like Luke did. I need you to remember Jace, please, before the same happens to you." 

Jace leans forward to encase both of your shaking hands," If it's the lawsuit that troubles you, then you need not worry. Nothing is going to happen to me. I've taken many precautions. Otto Hightower has agreed to meet us halfway to our beach house in Dragonstone to receive the papers. He's bringing Criston Cole as a witness and I'm bringing Corlys. Everything will run smoothly."

Halfway to Dragonstone, the gullet. You sucked in a trembling breath as images of Jacaerys' arrow-riddled body flashed before your eyes. He was close to his death and yet he didn't remember, not like Lucerys did. You were the only one left with the knowledge of what was to come… Or So you thought. 

[anbaisai]

Twisted Wonderland Art Masterlist

Last updated: 2024.11.02

A note on ship tags: The only true yume/oc x canon ships I have are Jamiyuu and Aceyuu, anything else is considered platonic. However, for the purposes of organization & convenience for tag-blocking etc., I tag anything centered around a canon character + my OC with a ship tag e.g. a doodle with Deuce and Mayu would be tagged #deucemayu regardless of the content. This may change in the future, but for now that's how my tags work!

Shiokawa Mayu (My Yuusona/OC) 🍙

Intro post

Doodles [1] [2]

Imitating the Tweels with @/umichipearl's Yuu

Box of tsums (featuring @/fell-e's Fayrouz and @/crystallizsch's Yuusha)

A suspicious bunny crystal (featuring @/skriblee-ksk's Kalmia)

Mayu & Ms. Marraine (featuring @/natsukishinomiyaswife's Ruthleen)

Braids club (featuring @/fell-e's Fayrouz and @/crystallizsch's Yuusha)

We're so cooked for the 2024 Halloween event... (featuring @/raven-at-the-writing-desk's Miss Raven)

Old vs current design sketch

Stargazy pie (featuring @/viperbunnies's Oz)

First day on the job at Mostro Lounge was a bit rough

Get pumpkin'd!

The girls are going through it... (featuring @/raven-at-the-writing-desk's Miss Raven)

Origami (featuring @/cheerleaderman's Astrid)

Halloween budget magical girl Mayu

Halloween asks [1] [2]

Other People's OCs

Raven x 2 (@/raven-at-the-writing-desk)

Alice in Wonderland with Silver and Miss Raven (@/raven-at-the-writing-desk)

Fayrouz sketch (@/fell-e)

Yuusha sketch (@/crystallizsch)

Ashi sketch (@/ashipiko)

Yuusha birthday (@/crystallizsch)

Shuu with Azul tsum (@/oya-oya-okay)

Yuusha with a bowl (Bowlsha) (@/crystallizsch)

Trey x Lydia (@/natsukishinomiyaswife)

General TWST Art

Grim: "I usually kill the DoorDash guy girl"

Ace Trappola x Heat Abnormal (熱異常)-iyowa

Jamil and Ace WIPs/sketches

Chibi Tweels

Lifeguard AU Scarabia tsums

Animals that look like Jamil

"At your wifes house rn 😏she hitting me with a broom" (Jamil)

Ace waiting for his friends

Floyd Leech suffering from success

Eel surfing [1] [2]

Ruggie sketch

Kalim's headband

Choose your own eel adventure

🐙"Jamil-san! It has come to my attention that the prefect refers to you as ✨𝓫𝓪𝓫𝔂𝓰𝓲𝓻𝓵✨, care to elaborate?" (Implied Jamil x Yuu)

Fellow Honest's UM (Kill La Kill parody featuring @/raven-at-the-writing-desk's Miss Raven)

Jamil's birthday (with bonus alternative expression)

Jamil Magical Archive's expression redraws

Jamil x Mayu 🐍🍙

Senpai's name means "beautiful" in Arabic, doesn't it?

Jamiyuu x Shama (紗痲) - NILFRUITS (contains f!Jamil)

"His shitty attitude and grabbable waist have bewitched me"

Tibetan fox plush

Hatsune Mayu

Live reaction to Jamil's 2024 birthday card announcement

Jamil's discovery regarding chemical warfare against bugs

Jamil's hands, they long to hold a pumpkin

Few things are more satisfying than wiping the smug expression off his face

"Loving your wife isn't a personality" okay tell that to my wife who I l-

"S-senpai! I-I don't think I look like a p-pumpkin today-!"

Nightmare Suit Jamil boss fight because his card took 162 pulls

What if the pumpkin Jamil caressed was... Yuu

Jamimayu plushies (nuis) (bonus Jamil nui glitching because he's resisting hand-holding)

The perfect place to hitch a ride as a plushie

Girls when it's not their beautiful wife's cooking

Snake Jamil

Boop!

Blep, a.k.a snake Jamil, but as a blood python (30 lb noodle)

Snake delivery (featuring @/fell-fell's Fayrouz and @/crystallizsch's Yuusha)

Confused noodle

Dreams of snake Jamil

[waitingforsecretsouls]

Traumerei & Zahard (Pt. 1)

(Tower of God #580)

We're far enough along in Traumerei's character and the depiction of his relationships to other Family Heads now that I feel confident in trying to analyze them a little more in depth, beyond meme edits or brief speculations in the tags of said memes, with a focus on doing this mainly in comparison and contrast to his relationship to Zahard as this posts main focus, highlighted as his most prominent and defining one from well before Traumerei's actual introduction.

Warning: This will include spoilers up to roughly #638 of the Tower of God Webtoon, and in part draw on SIU's blogposts of published chapters of the Hidden Floor arc. Under the cut for length.

My Thesis Statement: The defining aspect of Zahard and Traumerei's relationship, built on a basis of genuine comradery and mutual support between the two, shows Zahard as the only Great Warrior so far who actually expects things from Traumerei (or to paraphrase, who, in however limited a form you want to argue, places his faith in him). We see Zahard confide in him, console him, and entrust vital tasks to him, to the exclusion of all their other comrades; not only as the first comrade Zahard turns to in the present day story (in what's Outside Zahard's technical debut), but also a long way back in the past, before the first war with F.U.G. even broke out.

I'll try to structure this into three segments (and going by the likely amount of screenshots, probably a reblog chain rather than one self - contained post as I had hoped):

Zahard and the Family Heads

Traumerei and the Family Heads

Zahard and Traumerei

1. Zahard and the Family Heads

The first thing I'm going to argue for this purpose is Zahard's sentiments towards his old Irregular companions. Contrary to what seems like a popular opinion in fandom, that the present day Zahard views them as means to an end exclusively, devoid of any kind of positive or emotional sentiment at all, I actually think it's the opposite, and that he would have a far easier time, strategically speaking, if he did view them in this indifferent manner.

1.1 Zahard and Self

I feel like the origin of this perspective of Zahard as a purely cold, ruthless and calculating mastermind stems from his treatment of the Hidden Floor, where he collaborated with his data to first segregate the data of the Great Warriors into the hidden hidden floor, and then delete them.

My main argument against the validity of this would be, first of all, that the recorded data of their past selfs are very much not equivalent to their Outside, real selves, and that it would be perfectly natural for Outside Zahard to not hold the same feelings for them as their "real" versions.

Secondly, I feel like people really overplay the extent to which Zahard manipulated his data self in this: Yes, we have Zahard sport a malicious grin when he reveals data Zahard's ignorance of events on the Outside, and declares him as a "poor thing", "a fake me":

(Tower of God #386)

However, what this scene itself confirms it that 1) data Zahard likely only got forcibly edited (and only regarding these specific memories) when Bam asked him about Arlene, since "their names" is unlikely to refer to Edahn, with whom he converses perfectly fine and in a familiar manner and thus likely to refer exclusively to Arlene and V, who were erased from offcial history on the Outside as well (and whom Zahard likely sometimes wishes he could edit out of his own memories as easily as in data Zahard's case).

This is basically all but confirmed in the beginning of #368:

and 2), that Zahard has a rather nostalgic side, considering that he harboured the wish to leave the remnant of his young and optimistic self in the world in any form at all.

We also get from data Zahard himself that he helped Outside Zahard of his own volition, in a scene that's arguably centered around the Outside Zahard's strong emotions:

(Tower of God #387)

The emotions in said case being "anxiety" and fear, but still ultimately serving to demonstrate that Zahard is far from limited to the stoic and ice - cold killer we saw in his words to and subsequent treatment of Bam immediately prior, something concluded in his decision to honor his young self's wish for Bam to reawaken his passion as he did for said data self, despite the fact that said data was already in the irrevocable process of being erased from existence, lacking crucial information about Bam and his current Outside self.

(Tower of God #388)

(Note that this is AFTER Zahard noted "That really is a power that desires the abilities of God" about the Second Thorn Fragment, about whose origin and purpose he would know, as well as a multitude of potentials regarding Bam's origin and "fate". That is not the kind of choice someone robotically calculating the best possible outcomes and most ruthless way to get there would make, much less at the prompting of a soon to be deleted "fake me" he truly held either nothing but contempt or no emotional connection to at all, one he might easily have deleted outright).

Also, I didn't quite know where to bring it up, but I'll also mention that there is no immediate correlation between the data of the Great Warriors entering the "Hidden Hidden Floor" and being automatically deleted. As data Edahn reveals, they were tired of their existence as data, and followed Zahard knowing there might have been something fishy about his mirror from his Outside self. For all we know, they might have been deleted upon explicit request, similar to the data of Yura's and Hwang's bodies mother, somewhat detracting from data and Outside Zahard as ruthless killers and deceivers in that particular matter:

(Tower of God #386)

But all of this has been very centered around Zahard and his interactions with his own past self, so when am I going to get to his relationships to the other Family Heads?

Well, this segment was important in and of itself for getting there, demonstrating that Outside Zahard is not an unfeeling robot but actually fairly sentimental, and will alter his course based on the considerations of people close to him whom he respects (even in ways that are arguably highly disadvantageous to his own continued well-being), even if in this instance said person was a version of himself, which still serves its own purpose of demonstrating a senitmentality regarding his younger days, back when he and his comrades where comparatively unburdened and driven young adults climbing the Tower together.

1. 2 Zahard and the Family Heads

(Blogpost Season 2 Episode 292)

In light of the abovementioned arguments, I don't think Zahard purposefully sawed of all connections to his old comrades because he no longer cared about them, but rather that he still values these relationshop above nearly everything else, and distanced himself because he though that was what was his duty as their leader and a "KIng", about which he developed something of a complex, in case you didn't notice.

Introduced in his data self of course (I promise, we'll leave the Hidden Floor after this one):

(Tower of God #365)

This mindset smells of Outside Zahard, and comes specifically after Bam mentions Arlene's name, which we have establish to have been one of the primary "triggers" installed into data Zahard. I also feel like the following "What do I look like to you now? A human being? Or a monster?" might reveal another sad aspect of Zahard's current self-image/conception, but I' ll have to restrain myself with the images if I want to be able to at least conclude the Zahard and Family Heads portion in this posts image limit).

In another form, we get this in Traumerei's (but truly, Enkidu's and Gustang's) recent flashback arc, specifically #618:

But since I'll have to save many of these more recent points for Traumerei's portion of the post lest I needlessly repeat myself, I think it's enough to conclude this with the observation that at least part of what drove Zahard to change his mindset and become the solitary figure he is in the present day story was a feeling of responsibilty, acting according to their stations, soaring far above anyone else in the Tower, an expectation he extended to his comrades.

As Kallavan said, With Great Power comes Great Responsibility, and all that:

(Tower of God #477)

And we do see Zahard explicitly consider the Family Heads in the big decisions/doesn't simply overrule them, such as involving Bam:

(Tower of God #539)

We as readers know that Zahard and Traumerei had their private conversation prior to the Nest that probably truly determined what happened wrt Bam, but if anything this just strengthens my point, since Zahard explicitly allowed Traumerei to do as he wished.

(Tower of God #551)

(The reason I included the panel with Zahard's reaction is that I find it very interesting and important to the point I'm making. I don't have a conclusive opinion, but to me he appears almost taken aback by Traumerei's answer. Because remember, Traumerei's answer here is his reveal of the "condition" under which he'd take up Zahard's proxy war against the Poe Bideau family. That's quite a selfless "condition", or at the least purpose for said condition, to place, so I might well imagine that Zahard was taken aback by the lengths Traumerei would go to, specifically for him. Even in a more cynical reading, this is still Zahard allowing Traumerei to recruit himself a second Irregular into his family (the one he may know is considered as destined to kill him) and therefore also showing a certain degree of trust wrt that. But more on their relationship in particular in the eventual concluding part of this post)

Last but not least (arguably the opposite), we also have what may be the implication of Zahard as the one who gave the Great Warriors access to their famous Imortality Contracts, or at the very least having done something to make Traumerei regard him as the main cause behind their current positions and perpetual longevity of said positions:

"From the moment we got to the top, the only choice we had was to fall or not. But Zahard has given us a way to avoid falling forever. Only now that we have defied the laws of the Tower have we become beings who will never fall."

(Traumerei, Tower of God #632)

So while I'll certainly agree that we don't have many direct interactions between Zahard and the Family Heads, he does leave them free room to act with the only stipulation basically not to declare war on him, and doesn't brute force his own choices over theirs. He is very lenient (so far) even in regards to the Family Head who has broken this one rule, and has shown considerable respect for Traumerei's opinions and plans. Furthermore, he may well have ensured or enabled the Family Heads current hax, for which I would find it difficult to see another reason than wanting to keep them with him.

While there is a very interesting conversation to be had about Zahard and Gustang (and whether Zahard was aware of Gustang's preservation of the Thorn and Floor of Death all the way back or not), it's worth pointing out that Zahard's order to destroy Gustang's family (something we now know Gustang himself desires) only occured as part of his three orders, and Gustang himself is not targeted by default.

Basically, I haven't seen anything so far that convinced me of the "Zahard doesn't care about the Family Heads anymore" stance.

And with that out of the way, I'll move on to Traumerei's relationships to the other Family Heads depicted so far (who thankfully does have some more actual interactions with them).

(And again, a point I didn't know where else to fit in in which only occured to me towards the end of this post: I do think it's noteworthy that Outside Zahard does adress data Edahn as a avalid representation of Outside Edahn, to the point of not considering that he may hold differing sentiments from Outside Edahn wrt his relationship with data Zahard. Which goes against one of my first points, that Zahard may have drawn a sharp line between the datas and Outside selves, but supports my main points even better:

(Tower of God #386))

[veliseraptor]

Fic Authors Self Rec

I was tagged by @kasasagi-eye to self-rec five fics which is always. a fun challenge in a few different ways. but good practice I think! and I did go through and make an Author's Favorites series for myself a while ago, which made this easier!

tried to do a bit of a spread of fandoms/time for funsies

Elegy, or Twelve Scenes About One Thing (The Silmarillion).

An old one! But I'm still pretty pleased with it. It's a style I don't write in as much anymore as I used to, but rereading it reminded me why I liked writing it to begin with. Just an impressionistic set of vignettes about Finrod and Curufin in Nargothrond; good old-fashioned cousin incest for a pairing I haven't written in a long time but am still deeply fond of.

Curufin’s hands had a smith’s calluses. It was the strangest thing, to feel how they caught on smooth skin, or on scars as Curufin passed his hands over Finrod’s bare chest. As though he were a piece of metal or gemstone to be coaxed into revealing its secrets. Finrod wondered what he found. “You fascinate me,” Curufin said, suddenly. Finrod blinked at what might have been an echo of his own thoughts. “Beg pardon?” “You fascinate me,” Curufin repeated. “You are…a rare thing.” His fingers paused, and tapped just above Finrod’s navel. “For all I watch you, I am unable to guess your mind.” “I am no great mystery,” said Finrod. Curufin shook his head. “Ah,” he said, “But perhaps that, there, is your mystery.” He smiled, eyes almost glittering, and lowered his head to drag his teeth along the curve of Finrod’s shoulder. “Still waters, they say.” Ran deep, Finrod thought, and untroubled. He did not feel untroubled. If he was still water, then there was a turbulence in his depths. A whirlpool spiraling toward the surface.

post war blues (Wheel of Time)

This is one of my favorite fics even though it's written for an audience of maybe five if I'm generous. I had a lot of fun with it. Min/Elan post-canon, sort of, with a background side of Rand/Elan and Rand/Elan/Min in the future if I kept writing this AU.

“You promised me higher praise,” Elan said, something arch in his voice. Min laughed. “All right,” she said. “I like you. When you’re not thinking about it, you’re a fairly decent person, at least now. You’re smart; I like smart people. And you have good cheekbones.” Elan stared at her, and she shrugged. “A girl can’t help but notice.” “Cheekbones,” Elan said, sounding incredulous. “That’s what you’re stuck on?” Min said. “I thought the ‘decent person’ would get to you more.”

gather frankincense (Lymond Chronicles)

Had to put this one on here mostly because I was proud of myself for writing Lymond fic complete with a satisfying number of references in it, but also because I love this fucked up pairing (Lymond/Gabriel) so much.

“Am I meant to ask what desires I need to concern myself with?” Lymond asked, voice still light; not precisely indifferent, but not much affected either. “The rest,” Gabriel said, and gestured at Lymond’s untouched glass. “Drink, be merry. You’ve already ruined yourself with opium. Surely a glass of wine is not too much an indulgence.” “I am not in the mood for indulgence. Is there a purpose to this pageantry, o my Pasha?” “Save that it is my pleasure?” Gabriel regarded him with a touch of amusement. “You would rather I tied you to a whipping post and had you flogged?” “You would gain marks for consistency,” Lymond said.

like a trigger (get me ready to shoot) (Kinnporsche)

This is, like, an embarrassingly personal fic in some ways which is probably also why it's important to me. I have strong feelings about Vegas and sadism and it was fun to explore them here and write a bit of a character study through that lens.

He stopped trying to make it last. There was always work, where he could hurt people so much worse and it didn’t matter, there was no reason to hold back and nobody who looked at him like some kind of monster, except for the people he wanted to. His dad gave him a man and said punish him and Vegas could, would, did. It was never quite enough. Somehow he was always coming up short when it mattered. A step below, a step behind. His father’s impatience and anger and frustration, always quick to remind Vegas of his inadequacies. At least when it was just him and his tools and a body meant to suffer, he knew what he was doing. He knew how to get what he wanted, and did. He liked to hurt people. He was good at hurting people. There might be something wrong with him but at least he was in the right line of work for it.

That Unwanted Animal (The Untamed/MDZS)

A fic for this fandom I don't talk about so much, written for an exchange a few years ago. Modern AU, which is a funny thing that I don't usually write except in a few very special cases, and this is a modern AU that I'm actually pretty proud of the execution on, mostly because the messiness of it and the construction of the relationships is one that I remain happy with even on reread (far from a guarantee). The side Jin Guangyao and Xue Yang dynamic is one of my favorite things about this one, funnily enough.

So the thing was that Xue Yang knew that this shit was too good to last. It was like some kind of fairytale, wasn’t it? Cinderella, or something. Go to a ball, meet a handsome prince, get swept off your feet. Plucked out of your shitty life and dropped into someone else’s. If Cinderella was a psychotic headcase and the prince was two stupidly handsome men who apparently had a thing for that, one too nice for his own good and the other one too head over heels for the first one to tell him no.

I tag @curiosity-killed, @lu-sn, @ameliarating, @brawlite, and @highladyluck.