#dante is not my favorite character in that book but i do love him so he counts

[waroftheposes]

perhaps i have a pattern of liking queer characters in their teens in the 80s who are stupidly good at art and in love with their best friend

[lyra-kane]

Here are my ranking of characters in the caraval/ouabh world (it's long read at ur own risk)

1.jacks ..duh

The archer? The prince of hearts? Imagine having more iconic titles than these!

I really love his character it's very well written. He's not the typical morally gray who is always grumpy he has a really good sense of dark humor, which adds more to his character. Bro also literally dyed his hair blue after he got his heart broken, and he eats apple to stop his urge from kissing? I can't..😭 the way he teased eva? Hehehe, he had me giggling. I love sm their banter! Also, don't get me started on "there's nothing of equal value to me" bro just take my heart😔🫶 also him trying to teach eva how to defend herself then come saving her each time>>>

2.Evangeline

She literally the softest character and she didn't lose her feminine vibes and got cold because the world was against her she fought for what she believes in and LITERALLY THE FIRST FMC TO CONFEESS TO THE ML also she's vulnerable and forgiving she still had progress at the end ! She's the best example of coquette girl 🎀🩷 she isn't blinded by revenge like other mc she just want to live happily with jacks and she didn't sit and wish for it to happen she fought for love! She confessed to Jacks , and she kissed him herself! she's one of my favorite FMC!🥰💕

3.Scarlett

Scarlett is the most caring person she always put other needs above herself, especially if it comes to her sister since she was her only family I think when their mother left she felt like she had to fill that role since older sister kinda have a protective side to their younger siblings she even was ready to marry a man by his letters for that, I'm so glad she meet Julian because they just fit together! The way she was ready to make him hate her just so he can be free... I love that woman, a true empress indeed❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥🤌

4. Julian santos

I will try to keep it short from now! I love that men the way he only had was following his brother's script, but he was ready to change it just for her , bro even gave a day from his life for her so she'd wake up to not miss the game. He got a crimson tattoo to not forget her😭 he was ready to fight to save her at the end ! They're literally my babies..😔💓also we're getting his pov in the spectacular hehehehe🤭

5. Lala

I just love iconic women who love fashion, ngl. I was mad at her when I learned she was responsible for the curse, but in the end jacks did worse things💀, plus she did save eva she also supported her till the end!girlie was ready to kill aurora for her! Also, I hope she can finally find love, and it lasts! I need a book for her with chaos, hehehe 🤭

6.chaos

Ok, i was mad when he killed eva, but I get it. I can't imagine being turned to a vampire, then had to wear a helmet for God knows how many years that prevent me from drinking blood. It's not like he had control on himself, but I'm sure he was traumatized when he realized what he did! I'm so curious to learn more about him too, and plus he did have iconic moments that made me giggle 🤭 I also have a thing for vampires ...😔💕

7. Dontella

Ok, to be honest, I'm neutral about her. I don't like her nor hate her. Yes, she was annoying sometimes, but do I think that she deserves to HATED ? No hate is a strong word. Also, I actually would defend her from the people who accuse her of not caring about scarlet.. I mentioned it before in another post..

8.legend

Ok, cool, sometimes , but ugh, I hate how he treated Julian sm...also the whole grandma thing...ik he's immortal and old, but why stephanie?😭

I'm not a fan of him. Also neutral although he does have moments I enjoyed, like when he visited tella Dreams or some moments as dante, i hope he grows on me in spectacular 👍

[write-tama]

"a long day at work." (MCD Scenarios)

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ ( MCD!characters) x (guard!reader)

sypnosis ; security has been intensified due to neighboring villages are in fear due the threat of O’Khasis, meaning that you haven’t been able to spend some alone time with your partner. But finally, you’ve been let out of work early, which means you have a night to your lover!

containing ; Laurence Zvhal, Garroth Ro’meave, Dante (for some reason I can't find his last name?!). Established relationship, immense fluff! Reader is referred as you/yours.

author’s note ; hello MCD side of tumblr! i decided to post this just as for fun and to let out my little obsession on MCD lately. Pardon me if some things sound out of character I haven’t watched the series since I was like.. Ten maybe?! and I’m currently rewatching s1. But anyway, hope you enjoy!

9.26.24 | 2.7k words

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LAURENCE

Despite you two being guards, you’ve been stationed on the other side of Phoenix Drop since he is one of the head guards that stands alongside Lord Aphmau. But finally, after what felt like so long, the two of you finally were able to see each other tonight. Laurence was home before you. Being such the romantic he is, he had dimly lit candles scattered along the house and a bouquet of your favorite flowers sitting on the table, waiting for your arrival. He even stopped by Emmalyn’s library to pick out the new set of books she had purchased recently.

He was patiently sitting on the couch, undressed to a white long-sleeve cotton shirt and baggy pants. You came through the door, completely exhausted with your weapon slung over your shoulder. The sound of the door creaking was enough to make Laurence stand up immediately before grabbing the flowers from the table.

“There you are, my love..” He purred. The feeling of his arms wrapping around your body was enough for you to drop your weapon and to bury your face into his addicting scent. He pushed the door closed behind you before reluctantly pulling away to present you with his gift you didn’t even notice at first.

You couldn’t help the giant grin forming on your face as your hand rested upon his cheek. “I missed you too, sweetheart.” you smiled. You took ahold of the bouquet, admiring the selection. “I can see Cadenza helped you out tonight.” You chuckled, feeling the silk ribbon that tied the flowers’ stems together. A content huff blew through his nostrils as he buried himself into your palm.

“Hey.. Can a man not do his best for his loveliest?” He said, playfully rolling his eyes. He turned his face around to kiss the inner part of your palm. “I would’ve done more for you, you know that, but I figured that we should just have a night in bed together. Just you and me.” A comment like that was enough to send a flutter through your chest.

After a standstill of silent kisses and snuggles, the two of you finally headed upstairs to the bedroom to unwind for a night of comfort. You hung all your armor next to Laurence’s armor stand before joining him in bed. On your nightstand was a new collection of different novels from neighboring villages.

“I remember the last time we spoke, you said that you practically read every book from the library, but this morning I helped Brandon unload a crate of books Emmalyn had ordered, so I figured I’d pick some out for you.” Laurence smiled, his voice a bit lower now as he was relaxing into bed. You joined him on your side of the bed, letting the warm covers wrap around your legs. As you looked through the selection of three books, a warm tint deepened your complexion.

“You shouldn’t have..” You mumbled. “Hey! Did you ask Emmalyn for permission before taking these books? One of these books are all the way from Scaleswind!”

Laurence sat up before burying his face into your side, sighing. “Yes, your majesty.” He sarcastically replied. “She figured it as a kind gesture for all of the work we’ve been doing. Now shush up and read me a bedtime story!” He playfully remarked, sounding a bit like a child. Despite his snarky little attitude (that in all honestly, made you love him even more), you decided to start on the book from Scaleswind that way you could return it earlier than anticipated. With a candle illuminating the pages, you softly read to him. He laid down beside you, a protective arm wrapped around your waist, but at the same time cuddling you. Eventually, Laurence fell silent. You had assumed he fell asleep, so you decided to place a bookmark in between the pages before blowing out the candle next to you. You properly laid down next to him, burying yourself into his chest.

As your eyes fluttered close, you heard a soft voice call out your name.

“My love?” Laurence mumbled.

“Yes, Laurence?” You quietly replied, not wanting to break out of your exhausted-state.

“I love you.. After all these years, I never thought I’d be with the person of my dreams. Sleep well, my angel..”

With that, he fell right to sleep. Your heart skipped a beat as heat rushed to your face. Gently, you scoot up and brushed a tuff of hair from his face.

“I love you too..” You spoke barely above a whisper.

Maybe it was the dark playing tricks with you, but the corners of Laurence’s lips tugged into a gentle and content smile. <3

GARROTH

The guards of Phoenix Drop work hard, but there was not a single doubt that Garroth worked ten times harder. For most nights, you were the one that arrived home first. Despite your protests against your own exhaustion, you would fall asleep before he got home. You would only feel the shift of the bed in the middle of the night to signify that he had made it home safely, but again, before you could wake up, he was right back to work.

But thank Lady Irene herself, Garroth finally had a night off. Brian had offered to take the night shift from him, seeing at how exhausted Garroth seemed lately. Along with that, Dante also seemed to notice your exhaustion which is why he offered to take up your shift as well. Whether the two conspired with one another to finally give you two a day-off was a discussion for later.

Garroth was off of work first, and it felt abnormal. The moment he placed his sword into the racks and stepped out of the guards’ station, he felt a sense of emptiness. As he trailed himself back to his house, he thought of what he could do for you once you got home. He figured maybe a homemade dinner together would suffice. Though he had to admit, it’s been quite some time since he cooked a proper meal for himself, epecially for another. He stopped by the farms and local butcher for some groceries, and then arrived at his abode.

He decided on a simple meal— a steak with a side of vegetables and mashed potatoes with a basket of freshly baked bread he picked up from Kawaii~Chan. The table had a white cloth decorating its surface with the basket in the middle, two plates on either side, and a candle to light up the scene. He was nearly finishing up frying your steak when you had walked in, your helmet by your hip.

“Garroth!” You exclaimed, a bit surprised. The excitement had woken you up from your tired state as you dropped your helmet onto the wood floor and hugged him tight.

“Good evening, my knight.” Garroth grinned eagerly, just as thrilled to see you. He ran an idle hand through your hair. “You’re just in time for dinner. Go get undressed and take a seat.” Not wanting to waste another second, you picked up your helmet and immediately placed your armor away, dressing down to some comfortable attire. By the time you headed back downstairs, Garroth had placed your steak on your plate and he had taken his seat.

“Garroth, this smells amazing.” You complimented, a bit amused. You had never seen Garroth cook a full meal before, in fact, you can’t recall ever seeing Garroth cook at all. Garroth chuckled, gesturing his hand to take a seat in front of him. You took your seat in front of him, admiring the dish before you. The steak looked juicy and cooked just the way you liked it. The vegetables were fresh and vibrant of color. Even the potatoes looked thoroughly mushed and creamy!

“Heh, yeah..” Garroth chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his neck. “Back in O’Khasis, we still were taught how to cook despite having our own chefs. It was important to my father that we were skilled in even the most basic necessities. My mom just enjoyed spending time together though.” He smiled, thinking back on the fond memories.

You decided to finally dig in. One taste of that steak and it felt like the flavors were melting on your tongue. You squealed in excitement, not having something as delicious as the dish before you. “G-Garroth, this tastes amazing—! Even more than amazing, actually! I don’t even know how to describe it.” You cried. You could barely express your appreciation verbally as you savored and tasted every bite. Garroth’s face flushed in a bright red as the candle light illuminated his face.

“T-Thank you..” he stuttered. “I was nervous that maybe I had lost my skill after years, but I guess I still got it, yeah?” He joked. You couldn’t help but chuckle at his shyness. The two of you spent the rest of the night chowing down on such a gourmet dish, and telling each other the adventerous stories the two of you have been through, enjoying a perfect night together at last. <3

DANTE

Dante, being fresh out of training and this being his first real job as a guard, worked extremely hard and long hours to prove himself as a worthy knight. You fell in love with him the moment he walked into the village, but you didn’t realize how intensely he worked. Some nights after duty, he wasn’t able to say much other than to crash into bed. It’s not like you had any more energy than him. The paranoid feeling of invasion washed over you as you were constantly on guard duty, patrolling through the outskirts of Phoenix Drop.

One evening, despite Dante’s protests, Garroth had ordered Dante to take the night off. “Dante, you’re a profound knight despite your short-term experience. It’s time you take a break from all that work you’ve been doing.” The head guard assured, placing both palms on his shoulders. Dante was about to protest again, but his mind started to wander. He’s been doing all this work, and yet, he doesn’t recall having a night with you since he offered his love to you! Dante felt like a fool, and he knew that you’ve been hard at work as well. Dante sucked in air through his nostrils before sighing in defeat.

“You’re right, I.. I need to go.. Shoot, I need to go!” Without a word of explanation, he ran out of the guard tower, throwing his sword into the racks. Garroth stood, sort of frozen as he watched Dante run out the door. Laurence, who was snacking on a piece of bread, came downstairs and stood next to Garroth.

“Welp, there goes one our of guards. Might as well pull Dale out of retirement.” Laurence joked.

Dante, who was still dressed in full armor, bursted into Kawaii~Chan’s cafe, in search of desserts and treats. He practically threw diamonds at the poor girl, who, luckily, just finished prepping freshly baked goods for her shop. Dante grabbed the first basket he spotted and ran out the door, quickly shouting his gratitude.

He remained as discreet as possible, looking around the village hoping that you wouldn't see him off duty. The blue-haired knight knocked on Brandon's door, beckoning for help before running inside the two of you’s shared home. He grabbed a blanket, a lantern, and a spare bottle of wine he had bought from Logan a while ago.

The plan was to set up a date night on the beach. With Brandon's “expertise,” he was able to set up a lovely picnic by the the glistening shore. The red and white checkered blanket laid flat on the sand with the basket and wine in the middle, rose petals scattered around, and the grace of the moonlight completing the scene. After Brandon and him finished decorating, he told Brandon to tell Garroth to lay you off of tonight's duties in hopes that you would be present for tonight's surprise date. Dante sat eagerly by the shore, waiting upon your arrival.

You were running head-on to the docks in a panic with your sword handle tight in your fist. “Dante!” you cried. “I came as soon as I could! Is everything alri—?!” before you could finish, you met with his deep blue eyes and the moon’s light illuminating his figure. You paused in your tracks, both in awe and confusion. “Dante..?” you called out his name again. At this point, you weren't quite sure if you were awake.

“Hey...” He nervously chuckled. He stood up and walked towards you, leaving his footprints in the grainy sand. He offered his hand towards you, thankful he was still wearing his armor otherwise you feel his palm building up with sweat. You reluctantly took his hand before he lead you to the picnic. You gasped at the sight, not expecting such a romantic gesture on what felt like a typical night.

“Dante.. This is.. Oh my goodness..” The words couldn't muster up in your throat as you admired the scenery. The warm-colored lantern contrasted beautifully with the moon’s cool-blue light.

“I-I'm sorry if it was such short notice.. Garroth gave me the night-off and—” before Dante could continue with his anxious rambling, you shushed him with the biggest, more reassuring hug you could.

“Are you kidding me? This is amazing, Dante! Oh my Irene!” without another word, you took Dante’s hand and led him to the blanket, where the two of you sat comfortably. You two wasted no time blabbing the night away while chowing down on Kawaii~Chan’s delicious desserts.

As you rambled on about your knightly whereabouts, you noticed that Dante took a pause in eating and was staring deeply at you.

“Dante..?” you called out his name, tilting your head a little. Dante blinked before sitting up straight.

“Nothing.. I just.. You look gorgeous in the moonlight, love.” Dante softly admitted. A blush formed on your cheeks, and you couldn't help but look away.

“I-I could say the same for you..” you meekly replied. “Just— don't scare me like that again, okay!”

Dante stared back at you, a little clueless. “Scare you—?” it was as if a flick of lever, Dante realized what you were referring to. “Oh, Irene, what did Brandon do..” He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Realizing that it wasn't Dante’s fault, you sighed and explained. “Well.. It wasn't just Brandon.” you admitted. “Laurence and Brandon ran up to me in a panic, exclaiming that O’Khasis had docked and I needed to be there immediately because you were hurt! I can see why I was foolish believing those two of all people.” you rolled your eyes as you trailed off.

Dante let out a deep sigh before scooting closer to you. “I'll be having a talk with them tomorrow.. For now, let's just enjoy this moment, just you and me, okay?” he gently assured, wrapping an arm around and rubbing your shoulder.

You couldn't help but agree, letting your eyes flutter close as the two of you listened to the calming waves of the sea. <3

A/N ~ thank you so much for reading! There's currently a hurricane in my area, so it was nice using this as a distraction :) I hope you enjoyed! Reblogs, like, and even replies are super duper appreciated :3

[missacidburn928s-heathenhideaway]

I've got to feel, how it feels, to be loved by you...

Summary:

Alpha!Captain Syverson x Omega!POC!Reader "Sunny" No matter the circumstances, love finds a way. It’s up to you to accept them.

Warnings:

Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Alpha/Omega, Alpha Captain Syverson, Angst and Fluff and Smut, Mutual Pining, Mutually Unrequited, Mating Cycles/In Heat, Humor, Female Character of Color, POV Multiple

Notes:

Hello Heathens! I may have written this as a comfort fic for myself. Happy Reading! I do not own rights to any of the songs or lyrics used in this fic. I have linked them for your hearing pleasure. Please give these artists a listen. Where Are They Now?

Banner by @cafekitsune Divider by @firefly-graphics

Your brother Dante is finally coming home after a long deployment. Your childhood home is always the first place he would stop once he was stateside and allowed leave. Per your mothers request, your attendance was required for his homecoming.

You're humming along to a tune in your head as you keep busy in the kitchen where you've spent a good portion of your life. You're filling a pitcher with fresh Sun Tea, when the mouth watering scent of amber, sandalwood, leather, and a hint of redwood trees, wafts in. The same scent that's haunted your dreams since you first presented.

You allow yourself a moment to just inhale the intoxicating aroma of the Alpha you’ve been in love with since you were little. The same Alpha you believe could never be yours. He’s your brother's best friend. Which isn't so bad when you think about it, he’s not that much older than you, but you know he sees you as nothing more than little miss Sunshine, Dante’s annoying little sister. 

Your damn hormones just need to knock it off. No matter how amazing he smells, he’s not yours. You’re sure he has his choice in Omegas, hell you’ve seen the types of women he takes to his bed. But I’ve never seen one stick other than Julia in high school and that ended horribly when they left for basic and she found herself another Alpha to claim her in his absence. Stupid bitch. No one deserves that kind of pain. Especially Sy. He’s the most kind hearted Alpha I’ve ever known. 

A smooth southern drawl breaks you out of your thoughts. “Hey Sunshine. How’d I know I’d find you hiding in here?”

“Hey there yourself, Captain. You know me, barefoot and in the kitchen is my second favorite place to be next to curled up with a good book in the sunshine.” You look over at his large frame that is blocking the entry way. “You’re looking good. No visible wounds this time around. Impressive beard. Oh and I’m loving the fuzzy cue ball look.”

“Oh yeah.” He rubs his hand over his head. “Why’s that?”

“It just looks like a good place to run my fingers through. I’m sure it’s soft with just the right amount of prickly. Kind of like you.” You chuckle to yourself.

You watch his cerulean eyes slightly dilate, perusing your body at his leisure. He wets his lips with his tongue, smirking when he catches you following the muscles trek with your own eyes. “Feel free to give it a try anytime, Sunshine.” He winks as he moves out of the way for your mother and brother to walk in. 

“Pipsqueak! It’s been too long.” Your brother pulls you in for a bear hug. 

“Hey Dante. I missed you too.” You squeeze him back.

“Is that Sun Tea?” He says over your shoulder.

“You know it” You release him.

“You’re the best Pippy.” He quips as he makes his way over to pour himself a glass. 

“Meh. I just know how much ya’ll miss the comforts of home when you’re gone all the time.” You shrug. “Speaking of. How long are you back for this time?”

“Well, we weren't going to say anything just yet; but that was our last tour. We have decided it’s time to come home and open up that Auto shop we always dreamed of.” Dante nonchalantly states.

“What?!” You squeak out. “You’re for serial? You’re coming home for good?”

“You heard him right, Sunshine.” Sy cuts in. “We’ve saved enough up to lay down some roots finally.”

“That is just wonderful boys.” Your mother says with tears of joy brimming her eyes. “Maybe finally someone can give me some grandkids to spoil while I’m still young enough to do so.”

“What are you relying on me for? I’ve been overseas most of the time. It’s not my fault Pippy can’t find an Alpha that can handle all her crazy.” Dante jabs.

“You wound me hermano.” You reply in jest. You know he means nothing by it, but the words still sting nonetheless. You’ve tried to find an Alpha compatible enough for you to let them claim you, but it just hasn't worked out. You can't help but instinctively compare them to Sy and let’s face it, no one compares to him. You’ve come to terms with the very real fact that you may never find someone and heat sickness will be the end of you someday.

“Aw come on Pippy. You know I’m just playing.” He gives you his most charming smile. “Sy’s not doing any better either. So don’t feel too bad.”

“Wow. Just gonna throw that out there like that.” Sy says in disbelief. “I’m team Sunshine on this one. I too am wounded.”

This gets a laugh out of you and you smile up at him. “Thank you Captain. It’s good to have someone in my corner against such disrespect.” 

“Alright. Alright. Enough. You kids, no matter how old you get, are always the same. I’m over it.” Your mom pipes up. “You’re finally home for good. That’s cause for celebration. This Saturday we will have a BBQ to mark the return of my boys.” She’s beaming with joy now.

“That sounds like a great idea mama.” You turn towards Sy. “It’ll be nice having you back. Feels like something is missing whenever ya’ll are away.” You glance at the clock on the oven. “Shit! Sorry mama but I gotta get going. I promised Liv I’d watch Ro tonight so she and Cameron could go out. Just shoot me a text with whatever you need help with for the BBQ.” 

“I’ll walk out with ya. I need to grab something out of the truck anyway.” Sy states.

“Sure. Night Mama. See ya later D. I’m glad you’re home.” You turn towards Sy and head towards the front door.

He places his hand on the small of your back as he guides you out the door and to your car. Butterflies erupt in your stomach from that small touch alone. He sort of crowds you in against your driver side door once you arrive, his delicious scent enveloping you. The calming breath you try and take makes it worse as your core reacts, slick beginning to dampen your panties and the tiniest involuntary whine slips out. You hope he didn't hear you, or better yet that he can't smell the arousal coming off you.

You chance a look up at his face and are met with the flare of his nostrils as he inhales, his pupils dilating with lust and a low growl emitting from his chest. Before your hormones make you do something crazy, you clear your throat and speak up. “Thanks for walking me out, Sy. I’m really happy you’re home.” 

You lean up and place a chaste kiss to his cheek. “Have a good night, Captain.” You quickly open your door and climb in. He takes a step back so you can reverse out. You give him a little wave as you pull onto the street. Gazing in your rear-view you see him, still in the driveway, fingers grazing the skin you just kissed with a dopey smile on his face. 

Saturday…

To say that you’ve struggled through this week, would be an understatement. Your thoughts have been inundated by a certain Alpha and your hormones can’t seem to get the memo that now is not the time to go into a heat. You’ve been feeling preheat symptoms for the last day or two, which means if you’re not careful you may start before you can safely lock yourself away at home. 

Let’s just hope I can make it through this BBQ without combusting into a ball of pheromones and slick. 

You’ve arrived early to help set up. What you don't expect to see upon entering the backyard is Sy moving the outdoor furniture around at your mothers command. Watching his muscles flex and move as he arranges the pieces with ease is not doing your preheat body any favors. You can already feel your temperature rising.

Shaking yourself free of the very dirty thoughts trying to flood your brain, you head over to the tables leaned up against the house to begin the process of decorating and making the food presentable. “D! Get your ass over here and set up these tables for me so I can get them up to Mama’s high standards already.”

“Watch that mouth of yours young lady. You may be grown but you ain't too grown for me to whip that ass.” She snarks as you laugh and blow her a kiss.

“Why do I have to do it? Sy’s the one moving furniture around already.” Dante complains.

“I mean if you’d prefer to look like some weak little beta bitch cus you won’t move a measly table or two while Sy shows off how much of a big strong Alpha he is, so be it.” You shrug your shoulders and begin to set a table up yourself. 

Before you can even get the first leg propped out Dante is snatching the folding table away from you. “Give me that you little fucking brat. Always tearing a man down. No wonder you're still single. No one can handle all that attitude.”

“I happen to enjoy all that attitude. Who says an Omega has to be soft and sweet all the time?” Sy chimes in, taking over setting up the other table. “It’s so much more worth it when you have to work for it in my opinion.” His eyes scan your frame, taking in all the exposed skin, your flannel skirt and crop top put on display. 

“Is that so?” You question. “Thrill of the chase I assume.”

“Nah Sunshine.” He places the table up right and gives you his full attention. “The chase is fun and all. Don't get me wrong. But that final surrender when they submit willingly to you is a rush like no other. When they give in to their wants and needs and just let you take control. Worth every moment of resistance.”

You swallow, trying to bring saliva to your suddenly parched mouth. Other parts of your body are clearly more than properly hydrated. In fact they are starting to make themselves known. You’re going to need a pantie change soon if he doesn't stop looking at you like that while he smells so damn delicious.

“Thanks boys. Now go be useful somewhere else, so I can work my magic.” You shoo them away.

“Still don’t get why I gotta help set up a party in my honor anyway.” Dante grumbles.

Sy slaps him upside his head. “Do you even think before you blurt out stupid shit? Don’t be an ungrateful asshole. You should be thankful you’re alive to be celebrated at all.” He growls out.

“Damn. Shit.” He rubs the back of his head. “I am, okay. Jeez. What the fuck is with you this afternoon anyway? You need to get laid already man. Relieve some of that pent up aggression.” 

“Sorry D. Let me grab us some beer before we start up the grill. Might even let you man it for a bit.” He replies back.

“You most certainly will not, Captain. I would like the food to be edible. He is not to be trusted with the grill. Let him look pretty standing next to you so he can flirt with all the pretty ladies I know Ma and her friends invited. Who I know will flock to get their hands on some Alphas fresh off of deployment.”  You tell him as he walks by on his way into the kitchen, through the patio door. 

He stops in his tracks and tosses you a look over his shoulder. “He can have ‘em. I have my eyes on something far better than tag chasers.”

His response stuns you as he just continues on his way. What could he possibly mean? Is he dating someone? Just my luck. He was never to be mine anyways, right? Looks like I’ll be heading to Maxwells tonight after all.

Sy’s POV

The afternoon has been filled with good food, catching up with old friends and diverting all the female attention to Dante. I have my mind set on one female in particular. The same one who I’ve told myself for years I shouldn't pursue because she’s not only younger than me but she’s my best friend's little sister as well.

I’m over denying myself though. If anything, she smells even better now than when I first caught her scent after she presented. She has a recurring role in my fantasies and I’m ready to make those become reality. Not just the ones that have her writhing on my knot but the ones where she has my mark on her delicate throat, taken my last name and is round with my pup. 

Don't get me started on that barefoot and in the kitchen comment she made the other night. The images that produced, had me subtly readjusting before I embarrassed myself. Almost had to do it again today when I caught a whiff of your tantalizing scent, it was definitely sweeter than usual. She could be in preheat. It would make sense why I am so close to a rut all of a sudden too.

Time to stop thinking about the woman of my dreams and actually find her. It’s been awhile since I last saw her stunning face in the crowd. Maybe Dante knows where she is.

I head on over to Dante, who’s wooing the Omegas and our childhood friends with another war story. “Hey. Have you seen Sunshine?”

“Not in a bit. No.” He replies.

“Damnit. Alright.”

“Knowing where her heads been lately, I’m sure she just ducked out and headed over to Maxwells.” 

“Why would she be at Maxwells?”

“He found her singing while doing yard work for Ma one day, the summer she turned 21 actually, and begged her to come sing at the bar. Said it was a place she was always welcome to sing and drink for free. It’s where she’s been spending most of her nights since what happened to Cora. Music therapy or something, is what she said.” Dante divulges.

“You up for a drink and some entertainment?” I ask.

Dante looks over at the little omega clinging to his bicep. “What do you think sweetness? Wanna head out with this overgrown asshole.”

She nods her head. “Sure. I hear your sister puts on quite the show. I’ve never been able to catch one myself.”

“Guess we’re moving the party then.” He looks around, spotting his mother. “Hey Ma! We’re heading over to Maxwells to watch Pippy. You good with us leaving or do you want us to help clean up?”

“Go! Give my girl some extra love for me will you. She needs all that she can get. Clean up will be handled. Go have fun!” She yelled back.

“Let’s go. Meet ya there.” I can't stop the grin from spreading across my face.

Maxwell's Lounge

The atmosphere in Maxwells hasn’t changed in all the years since any of you have been able to partake in this establishment. A gritty, bit rundown, hole in the wall blues club. Dark wood and mix match tables scattered throughout. Not to mention Old Man Maxwell holding court at the end of the bar as his nephew tended to customers. 

The main attraction of this place has always been the stage. Whenever someone graced its worn in wood and filled the space with soulful music, it came alive. Just like it was now. All eyes were on you, as your leaned back against the piano, Mello playing the keys, aiding you in entrancing the crowd with the hauntingly beautiful sound of your voice as you sang about being Lonely. 

I'm slowly killing myself

I'm trying so hard at the back of the shelf

It's just the same every day

I'm writing these songs that will never get played

I get told what's wrong and what's right

I don't have a romantic life

And everyone's dying, so I keep on trying

To make 'em proud before they are gone

But can't someone help me?

Oh, please, someone help me

I don't care, anyone, anything

'Cause I'm so sick of being so lonely

Miss all my family

I don't care, anyone, anything

'Cause I'm so sick of being so lonely

You get so lost in the lyrics that you don't notice the newest patrons to have entered the bar. The space is filled with a mingle of scents and designations but you swear you can pick up on Sy’s very specific scent perfuming the air along with your brothers.

Opening your eyes, you scan the small crowd until it lands on your brother hugged up with some female and Sy. They’re getting settled at a table and involuntarily your heart decides to pick up its cadence. Sure they’ve heard you sing around the house, but this is different. This is where you lay everything out on the table. Where you come to release all those pesky feelings and emotions you can’t always articulate in your day to day life. 

This could work in your favor though. There is that new song you’ve been working on with Carmello that would be perfect for this occasion. Blame it on preheat hormones if you must but what better time to get out how you feel about the Alpha of your dreams than safely on stage. Shoot your shot right. He’ll either get it’s about him or he won’t, no matter the result you can finally move forward in whatever direction it takes you. 

As you finish the final notes of your current song, you turn towards Mello and whisper. “I’m changing things up a bit. I want to debut Loved by You next. Think you can grab your guitar and inform the girls while I do a little intro?”

He smiles that infamous cheshire cat grin at you. “Would this change to the set list have anything to do with the fact that Sy just walked in with your brother and you’re in preheat.”

“Carmello Antoni! How dare you make accurate assumptions of my motives.” You clutch your imaginary pearls in fake shock.

“Please Sunny, you’ve been in love with that man since grade school. It’s about time you do something about it. I’ve seen what his scent does to ya. The fact that you're in preheat when you're not due for one for another month right as he comes back to town.” He tilts his head to the side and smirks. “Well that’s some true mates shit if I do say so myself. So I’ll help you get your man because if I don’t, you’ll just stay stuck in your head daydreaming forever.”

“I want to be bothered by your words but unfortunately you’re speaking the truth.” You sigh. “Alright, let’s do this then.” 

Sy’s POV

“Wow. Your little sister really is good.” The omega attached to Dante blurts out.

“Yeah. Who knew the little pipsqueak who used to sing along with the radio while she messed around in the kitchen or played in the yard could hold a crowd's attention like this.” Dante responds.

“I did.” Sy imparts. “Sunshine always lights up any place she’s in. It just makes sense that she would be a natural at this. I’ve never seen her so comfortable before. It’s nice. Even if the song she’s singing is technically sad.”

“I didn’t know you noticed my little sister that much Sy.” Dante nudges him. “Should I be worried?”

“Stop that.” The omega speaks up. “Sy is a great guy. And he’s known you sister her whole life. Why wouldn’t you want an Alpha like him pursuing her? I would think that makes him the best candidate. Plus, true mates are a thing. What if he’s hers? What are you going to do, shun your best friend and sister because they are meant for each other? That'd be a dick move don't you think.”

“I like her. She’s feisty. Just what your reckless ass needs.” Sy chimes in.

Dante looks down at her. “You're gonna pay for that feisty little mouth later but I guess you’re right. They are both adults and if something happens it’s really none of my business.” He turns to Sy. “Unless you hurt her. You know firsthand what I’m capable of, Captain. Best friend or not, I will always protect her.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He sincerely states. “I just want to be extremely clear here. You’re saying that if I wanted to make your sister mine, you wouldn’t stop me?”

“I’m not loving the claim implied in that, but yes, I won’t stop you going after Pippy if you so choose.” He grits out.

“I’ll drink to that.” Sy raises his glass with Dante following suit. They cheers and each take a big swig as they watch you sing the final notes of that hauntingly beautiful song and lean over to whisper something to Mello for a few moments before heading over to the mic stand.

He watches you address the bar, like you’ve done this hundreds of times before. “How’s everybody doing tonight?” You nod along to their replies. “Good. Good. That’s what I like to hear. Thank you for letting me entertain ya tonight and get some things off my chest.”

He watches as you take a deep breath before you continue on. “I recently lost someone very close to me in a horrible way and that last song was a representation of my grief. Music heals all wounds right. I hope it brought some peace to ya’ll as well.”

Mello walks back on stage with a guitar and two females who take up a place to your right behind another mic. “Now we’ve made a little change to tonight's set list. Ya see, my brother Dante and his best friend Sy just got back from their final deployment and it looks like they have escaped from the BBQ in their honor and have graced us with their presence.” You wave in their direction.

“Normally we do standard blues covers and revamps of modern songs. Tonight I’ve decided to debut something I’ve been working on for a while now. The timing just feels right. I hope ya’ll enjoy it.”

With a subtle nod from you, Mello begins to play. Your voice begins to fill the space and he can't help but be captivated by your honeyed words and sweet voice.

Bless my soul I've been alone too long Somebody without someone Is no one at all And baby all these nights I've struggled and fought my pride Scared that someone your type Couldn't see past my flaws 'Cause I've heard that heaven ain't easy to get to, ooh The closest I'll get might be right next to you, ooh For I've got to know I got to feel how it feels To be loved by you Ooh, I got to touch something real Can I feel and be loved by you Jealousy is getting the best of me Thinking about you sleep without me in town And I had no peace 'til you give me clarity I need to hear and see If I matter at all 'Cause I've heard that heaven ain't easy to get to, ooh The closest I get might be right next to you For I've got to know I got feel how it feels To be loved by you Ooh, I got to touch something real Can I feel and be loved by you? Ooh, I got to feel it (How it feels to be loved) Ooh, I got to feel it (How it feels to be loved) Ooh, I might not get another chance (how it feels to be loved) Cannot let it slip out of my hands How does it feel to be loved by you?

The whole room disappears as he locks eyes with you. He feels as if the words were meant for him and him alone. A declaration that yes, it was finally time to stake his fucking claim and make you his. No other Omega compared and after that brief talk with Dante, there really is nothing holding him back but himself. 

There’s a small pause after your final note before the crowd erupts in applause. He and Dante being the loudest, rising from their chairs, whistling long and loud. 

You don’t know it yet, but I’m coming home with you tonight Sunshine, and if I have my way, I’m never leaving.

They watch your smile light up the room as you address the club once more. “Thanks for letting me get that out.” You softly chuckle into the mic. “I’ve taken up enough time on this lovely stage. Now it’s time for me to pass the mic off to the talented Mr. Carmello. I leave you in good hands. Lovers and fiends alike, I wish you a magical night.” You blow a tiny kiss to the crowd and exit the stage.

He wastes no time standing up from the table and making his way towards the back hallway where he knows a small dressing room awaits. He’s going to catch you before you even think about leaving.

He just barely catches Dante shouting out to his retreating frame. “Don’t fuck it up Capatin. I’ll never let you live it down.” He shakes his head and continues on with his mission.

You're making your way down the hall to the dressing room. You just want to grab your shit and hightail it the hell out of here so you can succumb to your wanton needs in the peace of your own home. You’ve just reached the door when a large warm hand glides across your waist, pulling you back and spinning you around.

Before you know it you're caged against the wall, staring up into Sy’s cerulean blue orbs. He has this wild look in his eyes that you've never seen before. Your heart is galloping in your chest so fast, you swear he can hear it as you hold his gaze.

“Who?” Rumbles out of his chest. 

“Who?” You throw back with confusion.

“The song Sunshine.” He lets out a breath that feels like he’s been holding on to. “Who were you singing that for?”

“Oh…” You bite your lip and look away, while you mull over the ramifications of confessing, preparing yourself for the worse. “Um. It was about you.” You mumble out.

“I want to make sure I heard you right, Omega. Say that again for me?” His voice is calm although his body is clearly strung tight.

You clear your throat, locking eyes with him once more as you speak with conviction. “You, Sy. Every word was for you.”

“Good.” He takes a step closer, his barrel of a chest grazing yours with each inhale.

“Good? Why is that good?” You inquire.

“Because I know you won't push me away when I do this.” Before you can respond with a sassy retort, he lifts your chin and presses his mouth to yours, kissing the breath out of you. 

It’s more than just a kiss, it’s a declaration that he’s going to make you his. You surrender to it. Melting into him and wrapping your hands around his biceps. He has one hand resting against the base of your throat while the other is gripping your waist, pulling you in closer. 

You finally pull apart, in desperate need of air. “Not that I’m complaining, but where did that come from?”

He laughs, placing a kiss on your forehead. “I’m done hiding how I feel about you. How your scent drives me fucking crazy.” He runs his nose along your neck, scenting you. “I know you're on the verge of your heat. You smell even more tasty than you did the night I came home and found you in your mama’s kitchen.”

“That would be your fault actually. I wasn't due a heat for another month.” You tease his beard with your fingers. “One good whiff of you and my body took over. Crying out for her Alpha.”

“Guess we’re true mates then, Sugar. I’ve been on the edge of my Rut all week after smelling you.” He nips your bottom lip. “That what you want, Omega? For me to make you mine? Am I the Alpha worthy enough to claim you?”

“Do you want to claim me, Sy?” You ask shyly. Not able to look him in the eye.

He turns your head to face him with his forefinger. “It’s all I’ve wanted for years. Since you presented, actually. I just thought I’d never get the chance because of your brother. Didn't want to ruin things for any of us.” 

“I know the feeling quite well.” You admit. 

“You do?” He does that cute little head tilt thing dogs do when they're confused.

“Yeah.” You nod your head, focused on his mouth instead of his eyes. “I’ve been drawn to you for as long as I can remember. I used to think it was just because you were around all the time, therefore your scent became safe and familiar. Until I presented and I found myself stealing any item of clothing you left behind or slept on to secretly hide in my nest. The amount of times I’ve attached my nose to your scent while going through a heat alone is embarrassing.”

He begins to purr. “Omega. I need you to look me in the eyes.”

Once your eyes meet his, you're lost in the black pools that have overtaken them and the sliver of blue that remains. “I’m trying to be a gentleman here but you're making it difficult to not pull you into that dressing room or out to my truck to show you just how much knowing I brought you comfort during your heats affects me.”

He pins you to the wall by his hips, allowing you to feel the hard steel trying to break free behind his zipper from your words. You grind against him and moan quietly. “Who says I need you to be a gentleman right now.” You pull him down to your mouth by his neck, almost touching your lips. 

“These panties are already ruined and I would really like to ride out my heat at home. Meet me there.” You kiss him and shimmy under his arm, shuffling into the dressing room to grab your purse before you head down the hall to the exit and out to your car. 

He wastes no time heading back to the table to let Dante know he’s leaving and he’ll check in with him later. Rushing to his truck, he barely catches you leaving the lot before he high tails it out of there and follows you home, hot on your heels. 

As soon as you cut your engine off he is already out of his truck and pulling you free from your car and over his shoulder. Smacking your ass on the way to the front door, where he turns to allow you to unlock it. As you're making your way inside, world upside down, you notice your nosy neighbor, Carol across the street mouth agape at what's happening. You wave at her and holler goodnight just as Sy turns and kicks the door closed, sending a wink her way.

Instead of taking you straight to your bedroom, like you expected him to do with all the hormones coursing through the both of you; Sy sets you down on your feet in the living room. You give him a look of bewilderment as he takes a seat on your couch. “I thought we were headed for my room to get a head of the heat curve.” You pout.

He crooks his fingers in a come hither fashion and pats his massive thigh. “Come here Sunshine. I just wanna make sure everything is clear and we’re on the same page before we’re lost to our baser instincts. I have no plans of stopping once I start. So while we are both of sound body and mind we need to be honest in what we want out of this.”

You feel a warmth engulf your chest as you listen to him speak about making sure this is what you want before you lose yourself to the pull of a knot. It solidifies how amazing of an Alpha, Sy is. It’s making your decision to follow your instincts the best course of action. Who cares what anyone else may think. You’re an adult after all and this is your life, you're done living it alone, pining for the one Alpha you thought you couldn't have. He’s here and apparently he always has been. Torturing himself with the same pining and doubts that you’ve had. It’s time to leave that behind though and leap head first into your future together.

You casually, well as casually as your nerves will allow, walk over to him and stand between his spread legs. He is having none of that though, gripping you by your waist and depositing you on his thighs so that you are straddling him, the high slit in your skirt agape. 

“That’s better.” He runs a finger along your jaw. “Now. Do you want to flat out tell me what you want? Or would you prefer I outright ask questions and you answer honestly?”

You place your hands on his abs to help balance yourself. “For fear of jumbling up my words out of nervousness I wouldn't mind answering questions. Less chance of me screwing  it up.” You chuckle quietly.

He nods his head. “That’s fine by me Sunshine.” He smiles warmly at you. “First. Your heat. How do you want me involved with that? Do you just want me to take the edge off so you can ride it out alone or do you want me to stick around for the duration?”

You clear your throat. “A bit of both. I want you to take the edge off but I don't want you to leave. I’d like to go through it together as I know your rut is close and I may trigger it.”

“You’re not wrong there, Omega. I’d be honored to help you through your heat. Have you ever had an Alpha aid you before?” He places a hand on your exposed thigh, high up where if he moved his finger just so, it’d graze you slick soaked panties.

You squirm from the sensation of warmth his skin brings. “No. I’ve always ridden out my heats alone. Just me, my nest and the inflatable knot dildo, Cora gifted me.”

He squeezes your thigh before skimming his index finger along the edge of your panties and pulling them aside. “That right Omega? You’ve never taken a real knot during your heat. Did you fuck yourself on a fake knot wishing it was me instead? You poor sweet little thing.” He slowly inserts two thick digits into your weeping slit. 

"Mmhmm Alpha. I was never truly satisfied with anyone. Knots didn't feel right. Thought something was wrong with me." You whimper out as your walls pulse with need around his fingers. 

"There’s nothing wrong with you, Sunshine. This tight little pussy" He pulls his fingers out and licks them clean, groaning as the flavor hits his tongue. "That tastes like fucking heaven. Was made just for me. You're mine Omega and I'm going to prove it to you." 

He places you on the cushion next to him and gets down on his knees. He removes your skirt and panties, before spreading your thighs wide and letting out a deep growl. “Such a good little Omega for your big bad Alpha. All slick and ready for me.”

Before you can even blink he’s diving in, feasting on your sweet ambrosia, moaning and growling as he sets out to break you apart before he puts you back together on his knot. Circling his tongue around your engorged little clit and parting your swollen folds with his thick digits. Like the expert marksman that he is, he finds that sweet spongy spot that has you seeing stars rather quickly.

In under two minutes, sooner than you could have anticipated, your crying out and coming on his tongue. Coating his beard and fingers in your honey sweet nectar as you ride out your orgasm. 

You can’t help but to kiss his gorgeous face, when he lifts his head, tasting yourself on his tongue. As you move to sit back, you grab the back of his shirt, pulling it off his body, before yanking your own off. You're frantically seeking out his warmth to soothe your now aching muscles. Whimpering and whining until his exposed chest meets yours.

“I got you Omega.” He rubs your back as he holds you in his arms. “Heats starting to kick in now huh? Starting to feel achy and needed?”

You just nod against his chest. “I need your words, Omega.”

“Yes, Alpha. Want my nest.” You speak into his chest hair.

“Okay sugar. I’ll bring you to your nest. Is it already made?” He softly speaks, continuing to soothe you.

“I need to add some things for it to be perfect. It’s in my room. I started to make it on my bed before I left for the BBQ. Thought I’d have more time before it set in.” You whine.

“Shhh. Shh. It’s ok omega. We’ll go get it sorted. How about you tell me what you need and I’ll set you in your makeshift nest while I gather them up for you. That sound good?” He hugs you tighter.

“Please. I just need a couple blankets from the hall closest and your shirt.” You manage to get out.

“My shirt?” He purrs. “You want my scent in your nest Omega?”

“Please” You clutch his waist tighter. 

He kisses your forehead and grabs his shirt from the floor placing it in your hands as he proceeds to scoop you up in a bridal hold and carry you to your room. He sits you in the middle of your bed, where you quickly begin rearranging things to your liking while he heads back out into the hall to grab the blankets you requested.

A naughty little idea comes to you as you get your nest to a suitable place while you wait for the rest to be brought in. With a mischievous grin on your face you turn around, arch your back and lift your hips high into the air. Presenting your glistening folds and slick thighs to the door that your Alpha will be walking through any moment now. 

Sy stops in his tracks upon seeing the Omega of his dreams presenting before him in her nest. Your thick and sweet scent engulfing the room. His already hard dick thickens further in his jeans and the thin hold he had on his impending rut is obliterated.

“Omega.” He takes a step into the room, unbuckling his pants, to relieve some of the pressure before he breaks his zipper. “ Fuck��you look so damn beautiful like this. Presenting so beautifully for me. An open invitation to fill you up with my knot.”

He’s made his way to the bed, pants and boxer briefs discarded along the way.  Placing his large hands on your ass, he spreads your cheeks, exposing your swollen lips to the cool air of the bedroom. He can’t help but to sneak a quick lick from clit to hole, growling at the sweet taste of you on his tongue.

“Might want to grab onto something, Omega. You’ve triggered my rut. It might get rough. But I know you can take it, cus you're made for me. I’m gonna make this so good for you Sunshine, I promise.”

“Please, Alpha. Need your knot.” You try and wiggle your hips in his iron grip, seeking out some relief.

“I know, baby. I got you. Take a deep breath for me.” He requests.

You take in a lungful of air as Sy slowly sinks in to the hilt, grinding his pelvis against your ass while you adjust to his massive girth. The pleasured pain of his thick cock kissing your cervix, instantly sets you off, keening as you orgasm. Your eyes roll back in your head as you let the aftershocks take over.

“Fuck! Did you just come from me sliding in, Omega? Your Alpha’s cock feels that good to your greedy little pussy couldn't help itself?” He grits out.

You just absently nod your head and whimper. “Yes. Feels so good. More. Need more. Move please, Alpha.”

All you hear is a deep growl before his hips slide back and he begins a brutal pace. Pulling you back on to his cock by your hips while he pummels your cunt with ferality. There is sure to be bruises adorning your skin from his possessive grip and you can’t  wait to admire them for the days to come.

He’s intense to say the least. Spouting out filth and vulgarity as he absolutely destroys your pussy. He has you so cock drunk that you can’t formulate anything other than guttural moans and screams, as you continue to come over and over again.

You imagine his stamina is probably great under normal circumstances. Clearly his rut takes the cake though because this stamina is of epic proportions. You’ve lost count of how many times you’ve gushed on his cock at this point. The sheets are most certainly ruined from the pool of slick that has accumulated.

Just when you feel like you might pass out before his knot pops, he swivels his hips and changes up the tempo. Sneaking a hand around to tease your engorged and over sensitive little button. His other wraps around your throat and pulls you back against his chest. 

“Give me one more Omega. I can feel how close you are, baby. Wanna feel your tight little pussy choking my knot when I finally claim what’s mine. Come on. Be a good girl. Come for your Alpha.” He grunts out as his hips piston in and out of you. 

As if his command was all you needed, you plunge headfirst over the edge into a mind numbing orgasm. A kaleidoscope of colors dancing before your eyes as his knot inflates and he buries himself deeper. He growls into your neck as his own orgasm takes over, bathing your walls in his cum, locking you both together. You can't help but whine and writhe as he suckles a deep hickey along your neck, where he WILL eventually leave his bite. 

It’s a promise of what's to come as he courts you properly. For now he gently gathers you close and lays you both on your sides. Careful to not pull where you are currently joined until further notice. His fingers trace along your torso as he places soft kisses against your skin. Before you succumb to the pull of sleep you swear you hear him whisper out. “I can’t believe you're finally mine.” 

The next three days are spent in a haze of pheromones, catering to the needs of your designations as you ride out your mutual cycles together. Your combined scents permeate your home in their thick aroma, even after your needs have died down and the real world creeps back in.  

Sy has you wrapped in his strong arms in the kitchen as he prepares to head back home. Now that he’s had you he takes every opportunity to feel your skin on his in any way he can.

“Sunshine.” He looks down into your sweet eyes. “I know we just spent three days locked together but I would really like to take you out Friday night.” 

“Are you asking me on a proper date Captain?” You tease.

“Damn right I am. So what do you say, Sugar? Can I take you out?” 

“Yes please. I would love nothing more than to spend my Friday night with you.” You place a light kiss to his adams apple, eliciting a purr from him.

“I’m gonna get out of here and let you get ready for work before I pull you back into that comfy nest of yours.” He lifts your chin up and places a soft kiss to your lips before heading to the front door and letting himself out. “See ya Friday Sunshine.”

Friday Evening…

The date has been so sweet and simple. Just like the Alpha who organized it. You’re so glad he understood how much you really love the simpler things in life, like dinner at your favorite hole in the wall diner and a movie of your choosing with all the snacks you can dream of. It’s been a great night to say the least.

Now you're parked in your driveway in Sy’s truck, engaged in an epic goodnight kiss. You go to move onto his lap and he stops you. “That wasn't what tonight was about, Omega. I wanted to make sure you knew how serious I was about being your Alpha. There will be plenty of time to be naughty in the future. Trust me it's hard as hell but it’s worth it.” He kisses your lips once more.

He wasn't kidding when we said it was hard, if the large bulge in his jeans is anything to go by. You can’t help but lightly run your fingers along his hardon and bite your lip. 

“Come on, Sunshine. You know what you do to me when you bite those delectable lips like that.” He pulls your lip free. 

“Sorry. I can’t help it sometimes.” You look at him all doe eyed and innocent, as your mind is filled with nothing but all the filthy things you wish you two were doing right now. You need to get yourself out of this enclosed space with this mouthwatering scent before you beg him to come inside.

“Are you coming to my mom's for family dinner Sunday?” You ask.

He looks at you quizzically. “Of course. Why?”

“Would you like to go together? We can rip the band aid off and let them know we're a couple.”  

“So, does that make me your boyfriend now, Sugar?” He smirks. 

“Well you’re my Alpha aren't you? I’d say boyfriend is easily implied with that title. Well, unless one is married. Or not into labels…” You start rambling.

He laughs at your cuteness. “Sunshine, baby I get it. I’m your man. Damn proud of it too. I’ll pick you up on Sunday and we can take my truck to your mom’s together.”

You smile as wide as the Cheshire cat. “Perfect. Can’t wait. I better get inside and see if mom needs me to bring anything Sunday.” You lean over to kiss him. “Goodnight Alpha.” 

He growls and swats you on the ass as you get out of the truck. “Night Omega. Be good.”

Sunday Evening...

Pulling up to your childhood home you find yourself with a sudden rush of nerves. What kind of reaction will you receive when you walk in, tucked under Sy’s arm. Ever the observant man, your Alpha catches on to the shift in your mood. He gets out of the truck and proceeds to open your door. Leaning in he gently grabs your face and places a kiss to each cheek, your forehead and finally your lips. 

“I know your mind is running wild with the ‘what ifs’ and nothing I can say is going to change that.” He unbuckles you and pulls you down out onto the pavement. “So all I’m going to tell you is, no matter what happens in there, we’ll handle it together. I’m not going anywhere. I finally have you and if I have anything to do with it, I’m never letting you go.” 

“Thank you.” You kiss his chin. “That’s just what I needed to hear. Let’s do this.”

You walk hand and hand up the walkway, through the screen door and into the house. Dante is sitting in the living room with an Omega you recognize from the BBQ last weekend. “Ma! Pippy and Sy are finally here. Can we please eat now!”

“Quit your hollering boy! We’ll eat when I say we eat. Did you introduce your guest to your sister?” She yells back from the kitchen.

“He most certainly did not!” You respond before turning to the pretty woman next to your idiot brother. “Hello! It’s nice to formally meet you…”

“Letti.” She says with a smile. 

“Letti.” You smile back. “You can call me Sunny. The only one who calls me Pippy is this man child.”

“Nice ta see ya again Letti.” Sy tips his head in her direction.

“You know each other?” You question.

“We met last week at the BBQ. I went with them to watch you perform at Maxwells. You were amazing by the way.” She answers.

“Thank you. I really love being on that stage.”

“It shows.”

At this time your mother calls all of you into the dinning room. She’s sitting at the head of the table as you sit next to Sy on her right side, leaving Dante to sit with Letti on the other. Your mother glances at both sides of the table and quietly smirks to herself. 

“Dante I’m glad you decided to bring someone other than Sy to dinner. And such a lovely one at that.”

“Ma ya act like I’ve never brought a girl home before.”

“Yeah, but they usually don't pass the front door.” You speak up as you serve yourself.

“Ok Pippy. Wanna rag on me. Fine. Wanna share why you two came in holding hands and are practically cuddled up at this table right now.” He snarks back, thinking he’s got you.

With your brother's attempt at trying to best you, your nerves from earlier have seemed to evaporate. “We’re together. He’s my Alpha and I couldn't be happier about it. We were going to officially announce it tonight anyway but thanks for speeding that process up for us.”

You glance over to the burly Alpha sitting beside you as he drapes his arm over your shoulder and pulls your chair closer to his, kissing you on the head. Your mother claps gleefully at the show of affection, having forgotten her son's faux pa.  

"Finally! I thought you'd never get your heads out of your asses and give in to your instincts." She spouts. “I was worried I’d have to pull something sneaky like in those Rom Com movies to get you together before I was too old to enjoy my grandkids.”

“Wait. You wanted them together Ma? Even though he’s my best friend and is older than her.” 

“They’re true mates honey. Can’t you tell that. Plus he is a wonderful man. Loyal to boot too based on how long he waited to finally go after his Omega because he didn't want to risk losing your friendship. Isn’t that right Sy?” She gives him that ‘I know all’ look that Moms have.

“Yes, Ma’am.” He beams that scruffy smile at her. “I knew coming back home for good meant that I wouldn't have an excuse to not go for it. Glad to say I’m overjoyed with the quick turnaround. Now I get to woo her and show her how worthy I am to be privileged enough to one day claim her proper.” He wink’s down at you.

“Come on man. Don’t talk about claiming my sister at the table. I’m trying to eat here.” Dante whines. 

“I think it’s sweet.” Letti knocks into his shoulder. “Gives me hope there’s someone out there for everyone.”

“Don’t you worry about that sweetie.” Your mother chimes in nonchalantly. “Your next. My son may be dense but I’m not. My Sunny and Sy aren’t the only true mates at this table.” She chuckles to herself and continues eating.

You burst out in laughter at your brother's stunned face, which sets Sy off as well. Chaos ensues at the table, like it always does and you can’t help but think you wouldn't have it any other way. Well, except maybe with a few little ones added to the mix. 

[echooefrost]

TGGTVAV x TGS AU!

Ok so Sage has always been talking about The Gentleman’s guide to Vice and Virtue and I finally got around to reading it and to say the least… I LOVED IT, every part of it! Whilst reading this fantastical tale, I just COULD NOT stop thinking of the Jekyon parallels to Monty and Percy… Just AGRGHHH they are all such big, lovable, queer Victorian idiots! Anyway If you couldn’t tell by the title of this post, I slam-dunked that book into my favorites pile and hastily made another AU. (also,,, SPOILERS! I am warning you. But what are you doing? Go read this book already!) 

In short I’ve basically taken The Characters from TGS and dumped them into the storyline/plot of TGGTVAV, In saying that neither Jekyll or Lanyon are strictly Percy or Monty, if that makes sense? I contemplated this over and over and I just couldn’t cram Jekyll or Lanyon’s characters into Monty or Percy’s. as an example; Lanyon’s personality is a lot more similar to Monty’s than Percy but Lanyon isn’t bisexual (a big aspect of Monty’s character) Yet at the same time both Lanyon and Percy play the Violin, both have dreamy freckles etc. But he just doesn’t fit into either of them, same goes with Jekyll; Jekyll and Monty both share similarities but are both very different, yet not different enough to take the role of Percy. So with all of that confusing explanation, Jekyll and Lanyon remain themselves with a few extra ~touches~: 

Jekyll is going to be sent to the mental asylum in Holland due to the existence of Hyde. Lanyon finds out about Hyde when he involuntarily transforms in Marseilles. 

Lanyon still plays the Violin and brings it on the Tour with him (for the reasons of plot accuracy and me pushing the Violin-Lanyon propaganda) 

Lanyon takes Monty’s position of power (as in his father is an Earl, and sends them on Tour) although Lanyon is rich, racism still very much exists and isn’t a terminated theme.

Before I continue and as a side note: Felicity Does not exist. As much as I wanted to work her into this, I just couldn’t without complicating a bunch of things, and as I said this is an Au, my au and I can do what I want - I do love Felicity but She just wasn’t going to work here.

Frankenstein (still a woman) takes the role of Mateu Robles because I thought it would be fun to play on the idea that Frankenstien created life and that Mateu’s panacea can heal people. After researching and experimenting, Frankestein tried the potion on Elizabeth but it stopped her heart, similar to how Frankenstein's original creation (the creature) ended up killing her love. I thought it would be interesting, that because Frankenstein kind of killed her wife, she created Helena and Dante the same way she made the creature, although they technically aren’t human, Helena and Dante still look and act like humans, and they believe Elizabeth equally as their mother as they do with Frankenstein. (Don’t ask me how a WLW relationship would work in the 1800’s ,,, everyone just thinks that Frankie is a guy {kind of like in TGS} ) 

Queen Lucy is Scipio because a.) We need more female badasses and b.) take ONE LOOK at her character design and Tell me she DOESN’T Look like a pirate queen- I also just think Lucy is a super fun character that I wanted to incorporate here. 

Those are about all the added things/changes - the rest basically just follows the same points of the plot :0 

If I’m completely honest, I probably won’t do much with this I just had an idea and wanted to share it :))

Here’s a little image of them - Also I gave them both slightly longer hair because I looked at fanart of Percy and fell in love. 

[williamaltman]

Ok so I've finally finished "Aristotle & Dante Dive into the Waters of the World" (a few days ago now).

I'm gonna start with: I got so fucking scared towards the end when they "broke up" and Dante didn't talk to him for weeks and left. God I think not many stories have ever made me feel like that. I think I actually have a bit of a trauma with one in particular that went like that and, actually followed up on not giving me a happy ending.

I was tired but I wasn't sure how I was gonna sleep with that in my mind, until Ari said he was going to Paris and so I knew I could have some hope.

Tbh I had a few more issues with this one than the first. I talked about it before but I didn't really like how it sort of pushed the idea that you HAD to come out to your friends even if you don't feel ready. I also felt like sometimes there wasn't enough Dante? I like Ari's friends and all, but these books are called Aristotle AND DANTE.

I also feel like, in a way, all the characters are a bit too articulate? Maybe too mature even? In the first book I didn't mind it as much cause it was just Ari and Dante themselves, plus their moms I guess, but here Gina and Susie are more relevant and there's Cassandra and Ari's father talks a lot more and there's more stuff like his mom arguing with other people, and it was just like... Well I guess it would be nice if most people were like that in real life, but they're really not...

That aside though, it was obviously still amazing. One thing I liked was Ari actually being gay and that term being used throughout? I usually don't mind when certain characters are mlm without their specific sexuality being stated, and ofc bi/gay couples are nice too, but I feel like sometimes in fiction it ends up being a bit more rare to have couples with two gay guys even though that's what's more common in real life.

I also love how fucking horny he was at the beginning lol. Like this actually felt realistic, and even though there's no smut or anything, it's not something that's just ignored or pushed aside.

I felt like Dante felt a bit more realistic in this book. He's moody so many times and I think his flaws are more visible and so it feel less like he's just there to be Ari's perfect manic pixie dream girl (though I'll say he's still one, affectionately).

Something I thought when I finished the first book was how cool it would probably be to see their parents reacting to their relationship. And that was indeed really cute. I think Dante's mom is my favorite of them all. And on the topic of the parents, Ari's dad's death? That was a complete shock to me. I wasn't expecting it at all. It came out of nowhere but it was honestly really interesting to have Ari and his mom deal with that grief, and that whole section is probably, in a weird way, one of my favorite parts of the book.

Another interesting thing was how much the AIDS crisis in the backdrop affected the book. I remembered when they flashed to that in the movie and I was confused at how random it seemed, but now I can kinda get why. I thought it was the best they could do by making it matter to the characters even though they probably wouldn't and shouldn't be actually affected. It's kinda funny to me how I decided to read this sometime close to when I watched Fellow Travelers that also featured that into the story, cause it's honestly not something I've thought about as much before.

Something that was really important was the closure between Ari and his brother. I'm not gonna say it bothered me exactly, because it was understandable, but it was just always kind of an ick for me that Ari cared so much about him knowing he was there because he killed someone in a hate crime. So the way their reunion went down was actually perfect for me and gave me a much needed relief just like it did for Ari. I feel like the writer probably felt the need to address it too because of the stuff people were saying about the first book due to this plot point, but even if that was why I still felt like the way things were handled felt natural. Their parents had already given up on him, he was never gonna accept Ari and I didn't want for Ari to stay caring about him by just not telling him or something.

I know the ending is a bit vague and doesn't like reeally explain every little thing, but the message felt clear enough to me, in that it was meant to tell us that things will be alright and that they're not just gonna let their love slip through their fingers or run away from it. Ari coming in with the wedding and honeymoon talk? Got me.

It still feels kinda weird that it's really over because it had honestly become so much of a habit to read these almost every day in bed. These books were probably the easiest thing for me to read and just flowed so naturally. I know people have already said that, but they really do feel like a way to celebrate life despite all the hardships in it and you can feel that love through the pages.

[jivvie]

okay so quick side note before I get into MY HEAD… THE DOGS DIED SOBB THORGI MY BELOVED

vij’s thoughts on mcd season 1

from the beginning I LOVED the whole aspect of the role playing. It felt like a visual novel and I LOVE visual novels. If mcd becomes a game or book YES PLEASEEE

it was super interesting to learn more about Irene. In mystreet, we don’t really learn about her backstory so it was nice to learn about things that fit in the mystreet universe

100 episodes is A LOT and I thought fillers were fine. It definitely felt like a RPG game with all the tasks Aphmau had to do

Dude when Zane finally spoke his first line, I KICKED MY FEET AND SCREAMED INTO MY PILLOW YALL

Garroth was a little baby bitch at the end istg i wanted to punch his face but i guess he sacrificed himself for the group

Aaron is very unremarkable. Little emo boy. I’m guessing he has more screen time next season? ALSO HE HAD A WIFE AND A KID TF

still not a laurmau fan. SORRY GUYS but I just hate flirty guys and I feel like he’s also the reason for pushing garroth away from aphmau by like taking initiative. I guess thats why people are like yass Laurence but personally nah

I like how slowly you could realize that this series got more serious. like more ideas and thought put in for bg characters, even though they weren't "important"

Dante. MAKING HIM WAIT FOR 15 YEARS SOB. And I like how it seeps into mystreet as well

MAN ZANE AS LIKE JUST A VILLAIN YESSS. I hope he does not get redeemed and is just a bad guy

favorite character would have to be Donna. I really liked her character!! Sassy women <333

also omg legit forgot half of the villagers. like... who tf is corey???? is it molly or emma thats married to him??? too many damn pretty blonde women

babe house. just babe house.

i liked unhinged aphmau. its more funny now thinking about this compared to her newer content

at the end, i think i just cried for a minute or two. not only because i finished 100 episodes, but more that i miss aphmau's old content. her roleplay series is legit what got me through my childhood. and its very unlikely she'll return to this kind of content or similar roleplays.

like s7 is probably only here to satisfy us old hungry aphmau fans, but like MID?? no news whatsoever about it.

ANYWAYS I LOVED IT SO MUCH!! it was nice to just boot up an episode and just draw while watching. i might release some mcd doodles if i feel like it :P

i never tried mcd because im not a fantasy reader, but i pushed myself out of my comfort zone and im glad i did!! 10/10 would probably not do again because 100 eps are too much for me sob

[wutheringheightsfilm]

ooohhhh HEATHCLIFF AND CATHY!!!

OOOOOOH YOUUUU!!! okay ill start with heathcliff...

My first impression:

i honest to god can't remember... i always thought he was interesting though

My impression now:

literally a man i will defend with my life (within reason). i understand him...

Favorite thing about that character:

his ability to scheme. that man is literally leagues ahead of everyone else at all times and he outsold on his revenge plot as far as success goes though not as well as edmond dantes did. his passion too obviously

Least favorite thing:

how he treats the next generation of children. he of all people should know what it's like to get crushed underfoot as a child but of course this book is about perpetrating cycles of abuse so he would never have acted any differently

Favorite line/scene:

i mean obviously the haunt me, then! is fucking iconic but there is a scene where cathy tells heathcliff that isabella is heir to the grange, and after cathy leaves the room according to nelly he's just sitting in the parlor plotting and smiling to himself. i also really love every time heathcliff and cathy team up against edgar because i find it hilarious

Favorite interaction that character has with another:

morbid but i love when isabella is telling him "mr earnshaw has the mind to shoot you! if i were you i would go lie down on cathy's grave and die like a dog!" and he still demands to be let in the house and proceeds to suplex hindley to death (not what happens hindley doesn't die like that but whatever)

A character that I wish that character would interact with more:

i wish i could've seen more of heathcliff and hareton after hindley's death, actually. i would've liked to see what their dynamic was actually like when hindley was gone and it was the interim years between cathy II being born and finding out about the heights

Another character from another fandom that reminds me of that character:

hm. no one is really like heathcliff for various reasons... you know what, i'll throw out mordred from arthuriana. for reasons

A headcanon about that character:

i like to think he made his mysterious fortune by scamming rich businessmen in london or something. unlikely but i wish

A song that reminds of that character:

i have a whole heathcliff playlist, actually, but a song off of there is black by pearl jam

An unpopular opinion about that character:

very few people including academics understand him and even less filmmakers do but i'm not sure if that's unpopular. hm lets see. when he's a child and teenager i would go so far as to say heathcliff did very little wrong and i will extend to him so much grace, more than i think the average person would

Favorite picture:

james howson. obviously

CATHYYYYY TIMEEE

My first impression:

i love her but she's a bit mean

My impression now:

she is very startlingly like me if i was worse off mentally (LOLLL i wrote a substack article about this)

Favorite thing about that character:

oh i love her anger and spite. i really do. it's absolutely great to read when so many women in victorian literature aren't allowed to be more than cardboard

Least favorite thing:

despite me giving her a lot of grace for it, i do sometimes really dislike her inability to see past herself and stop being so myopic.

Favorite line/scene:

MY LOVE FOR HEATHCLIFF IS LIKE THE ETERNAL ROCKS BENEATHHHH

Favorite interaction that character has with another:

the kitchen fight forever and ever and ever

A character that I wish that character would interact with more:

i would have loved to see how cathy would have treated her daughter. i suspect extremely poorly but

Another character from another fandom that reminds me of that character:

jesus um... really no one is quite like her either. for now though i'll say morgana from bbc merlin

A headcanon about that character:

i think that even before heathcliff comes back, cathy periodically sneaks out of the grange and wanders the moors by herself. maybe even looking for him.

A song that reminds of that character:

i have a whole cathy playlist as well but one song from it is obviously silver springs by fleetwood mac

An unpopular opinion about that character:

i actually do not stand behind the idea that it was cathy's idea to go sneak to the grange. i think it was an idea heathcliff and catherine had together

Favorite picture:

i couldn't fucking find it so i had to go onto my parents' prime video and you can't screenshot that but HERRRR i looove charlotte riley's cathy ill stand by this

THANK U AGAIN!!!

[theink-stainedfolk]

Writerly Questionnaire

Thank you @the-golden-comet @drchenquill and @paeliae-occasionally for the tag♡

About Me

When did you first start writing ?

I first started writing in 5th grade. I had this chapter in English course book about a timid girl who learned to write stories with the help of her English teacher. Also, i was so much into fanfictions at theat time so i thought it would be a great idea to start novels.

Are the genres/themes you enjoy reading different from the ones you write?

I enjoy writing mystery, crime / psychological thriller, political Intrigue and historical , fantasy types writing but i enjoy reading cozy fantasy, mystery and crime thriller.

Is there an author (or just a fellow writer!) you want to emulate, or one to whom you're often compared?

Nope. Not really. I take inspiration from various sources but i never felt anything like this nor did anyone ever compared me to one.

Can you tell me a little about your writing space(s)? (Room, coffee shop, desk, etc.)

Mostly it is my bed, i do best when i am in my comfort space. Because i can't write anywhere else without being criticized for being "too much on my phone"

What's your most effective way to muster up some muse?

Idk honestly. I just look at things, random things at that and i get flooded with ideas. I just looked at a pen once an i got the idea. I also watch music videos of my favourite froups and get ideas. I watched the ODDINARY trailer of stray kids and i got a story idea which i am currently trying to write. I'm the worst person to ask this question.

Did the place(s) you grew up in influence the people and places you write about?

No. My writing life is pretty different from the way i live because of the need to be separated from reality. And i hate where i live so it wouldn't do me much favour.

Are there any recurring themes in your writing, and if so, do they surprise you at all?

Yep. Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, queer people, mystery, slice of life, fantasy, romcom and i turn everything gay because of the ✨spice✨ i feel in it. Sometimes it does surprise me because i originally started as only mystery and crime thriller writer. Slowly i evolved. And i never saw myself writing queer romance. But i am still learning and i will not give up trying my best.

My Characters

Would you please tell me about your current favorite character? (Current WIP, past WIP, never used, etc.)

This will get too long. My current favourite character is Dante from Beyond The Pages. Because i surprisingly found myself attracted to unhinged villain with no redemption but just an attractive smile, fashionista outfits and screw loose. My current WIP is Shades Of Erudition . Which i love dearly idk why i just got the idea. And I'm beginning to love Asterion too.

Which of your characters do you think you'd be friends with in real life?

Vesperine said Cleo for sure. Because i like their sense of humor and Cleo would probably let me in their friend circle. I hope so. And also probably Maurine because of her love for books. I'd probably sit for hours and hours at her house, her husband, however, would kick me out for taking too much of her time and giving him none.

Which of your characters would you dislike the most if you met them?

.... Dante probably also Dr. Anselm Ravenscroft and his puppy creation, Acheron. All the characters form Wicked Game, Wicked Fates . And more that i can't think of.

Tell me about the process of coming up with of one, all, or any of your characters.

This is... a very difficult question... haha...

Ok so sometimes i get the idea of the story forat and sometimes i get the characters first.

In the case of getting idea first, the character build is not hard to decide. I make up scenarios in my head and imagine stuff while listening to music that matched my story and i automatically get the idea.

But in the case of getting the character idea first.... it is freaking difficult because i only get the design idea and dialogues, but not the personality traits. So i spend days and weeks thinking of a story that would match my character so i can develop the character more. Some of my characters with no story are still waiting and I'm feeling guilty.

Do you notice any recurring themes/traits among your characters?

Probably it is intelligent/cunning bastard x strong sweetheart. I don't remember much maybe someone could remind me.. haha...

How do you picture them? (As real people you imagined, as models/actors who exist in real life, as imaginary artwork, as artwork you made or commissioned, anime style, etc

I imagine them as real people of course. Sometimes I'm so obsessed with it that i make a list of possible actors i want to play my characters. And i also imagine them as random people and artworks on pinterest too.

My Writing

What's your reason for writing?

Self enjoyment and the comments i get from people who take time to read my works. It makes me ecstatic. ♡♡♡

Is there a specific comment or type of comment you find particularly motivating coming from your readers?

Not specific. I find every comment really uplifting because it means that they read the whole thing. They read it and wrote, they took time for me. Because nowadays time is very precious and quite fast and nobody would want to spend it by reading some unknown person's probably worthless works. ♡♡♡

How do you want to be thought of by those who read your work? (For example: as a literary genius, or as a writer who "gets" the human condition; as a talented worldbuilder, as a role model, etc.)

I don't want much i just want to be thought as someone with great ideas and writing style. I hope i had a good fandom where people post about on Pinterests and Tumblr and people make tiktoks of my book in the future. Basically i want to be remembered. And loved.

What do you feel is your greatest strength as a writer?

I feel very embarrassed to say this but i think it is my ideas and my ability to finally try and write different genres. And the fact that i don't give up.

What have you been frequently told your greatest writing strength is by others?

I think it is that i manage writing different types of genre. It was truly mesmerizing when drchenquill said that to me honestly because i always felt like i couldn't write any other genre than mystery, crime thriller and historical fiction. I feared trying out other genres too. And another one of my friends told me that the more ideas i get, the better it gets from the previous ones.

How do you feel about your own writing? (Answer in whatever way you interpret this question.)

I think that i have improved a lot since before but i have a lot to improve. I want to write beautifully, with prose and beautiful lines, i know it is not easy, like Erin Morgenstern, but like i said, like my ideas are evolving, my writing style will too.

If you were the last person on earth and knew your writing would never be read by another human, would you still write?

I would still write. With not so much enthusiasm as before because i really enjoy talking about my stories with others but i would still write because i started as someone with zero readers and i didn't stop there.

When you write, are you influenced by what others might enjoy reading, or do you write purely what you enjoy? If it's a mix of the two, which holds the most influence?

I am influenced by both. But to me, my enjoyment holds the most value. Because if i don't enjoy what i write, nobody would enjoy it either. There are many ideas of mine that i love a lot but many of my friends do not like it but i still enjoy writing them because the feeling that i get when i get the whole idea, the ecstasy, it is so exciting and addicting that it becomes my hyperfixation for weeks.

I'll tag @cssnder @finickyfelix @willtheweaver @ascotwriting @agirlandherquill @leahnardo-da-veggie @illarian-rambling @winglesswriter @paeliae-occasionally @the-golden-comet @graveyardshift111 and this is an open tag.

[kaledya]

Hi.

What can I say? At being in front of an statue of Machiavelli in Italy was a message of the universe telling me: "Write the goddamn fanfic"

But now ignoring jokes, I have lots of concepts that I made:

First of all: The fanfic or Constantine will have a total of 15 chapters, 5 for each moment (in his Childhood, in his young adulthood, and in the current day), this to have an structure that I like.

Now, the Executioner himself

Who is Arzel?

You might have some old memories when I show you this picture

Yup, of course he will have a different design for this AU.

But if you want to know what to expect of him im his Villain Arc:

I took inspiration in Ultron (I like that villain) mainly because I think a Villain that wants to change everything in a more wicked way that the protagonist (Charlie) actually fits well, also I admit his hate to Constantine has that as one of it's inspirations.

Sauron (both Lord Of The Rings, Hobbit, and even other books that didn't got it's adaptation), but of course, I use sauron as a reference for him, and another character related to Evil and Eyes (I know Sauron in the Book isn't a giant eye in a tower), let's say Arzel is inspired in Sauron, but Roo is inspired in both Sauron and Morgoth.

Vergil (Devil May Cry), you might don't know this one, but the important thing is his Siblings-Rivalry to, he and Constantine aren't brothers, but let's say they get to be close, that before something I ain't gonna spoil because it's in the final act of the Young Adulthood of Constantine.

And here 2 Starwars characters that gave me an idea of it:

Vader, both his relationship with Palpatine and his fall to the darkness are taken note, but I won't copy paste it, do not worry 😅

General Grievous (2003, not the movies version), before this robot was an had asma, and covered his coughing, being a cyborg in a droids ship, he was an Jedi slayer that could handle various numbers of them (and he didn't used his 4 arms until the very own end)

But let's stop talking about my OC!

And let's talk about a the concept of the cult of Evil.

Let's say they're secretly hided, not even Heaven knows it's existence (plot armour? Nah they have magic or something (?)) and they mainly have the typical "Antichrist" role when some of them go to Earth for deals.

Basically in this concept Roo is the actual devil.

This is mainly because Lucifer isn't evil and does not try to take the soul of every human being.

Of course Roo won't appear and say "i'M tHe DeViL >:D"

It's just an similar concept and way of making it.

I'll probably both start with the Hazbin Hotel fanfic before I lose my ideas.

But also continue with Constantine's fanfic.

I hope I can mix both Action, Comedy, Drama and Musical parts in it.

Because I want to keep the essence of both your AU and the OG.

LMAO and Seriously your plan sounds like a great plan! You really divided the periods into chapters beautifully.

An yes! I remember This art! Good old days.

ULTRON!! I'm so glad to hear that ULTRON is one of my favorite villians He gave me Vibe, which reminded me of what would happen if Stark tried to find brutal answers to problems, and it was great that he was similar to Tony in personality.

And seriously, considering the contrast with Charlie, you've really chosen a great inspiration!

--

Sauron is also a great choice, he is a truly fearsome, powerful and intelligent enemy. It's seriously a good choice both visually and in character!

--

Virgil!! I Love devil May cry And I really loved those fights between Dante and Virgil, this is a great inspiration too!

--

Anakin skywalker the fallen Angel.. Darth is a great choice in the future, I think a villain inspired by such quality villains will be great.I can't wait to see it!

-Grevious is also a really good choice, he has always been a dangerous villain.

---

I think it really makes sense that you connect the concept of evil to Roo, it's a smart choice!

-I can't wait to see any fanfiction you write, I really think you're very creative and you'll do wonders!

I'm sure you will do it and I wish you good writing.

----

And if possible, could you describe Arzel to me with references (face, clothes, etc.)

[lok-repository]

The Avatar Wiki newsletter has published the final portion of their earlier Q & A last year with Janet Varney, Korra's VA .

Questions after the cut.

What is your favorite Korra battle scene and the change that it brought to the world? Oh you know I can never pick just one favorite! But if I have to pick one for now, I think for sheer intensity, I might have to pick the big Zaheer scene, which I’m not even really thinking about the world impact more than even just the impact on Korra and where it takes us all… the journey afterwards… the PTS… Toph… clarifying her feelings for Asami…

If you weren't Korra’s VA, which character(s) in the show would you want to voice instead? It’s funny, it’s like even though we all know you aren’t asking me to take someone else’s job, the knee-jerk response is to be like “Nooooo! I couldn’t replace anyone! I love everyone too much!” But in a multiverse where we’re all just… maybe swapping roles? I might grab Bolin or Varrick!

Who would you pick as Korra’s VA if it wasn’t you? Thank goodness this would never be up to me in real life- I could never choose between all of the phenomenal VAs out there! That said, I’m kind of obsessed with all the ladies on one of my all-time favorite shows, “Reservation Dogs…”

What is something you have come to appreciate more about the original series while rewatching it for the podcast? Great question! Just when you thought you couldn’t appreciate something more… you watch it one more time, and every “one more time” you love it even more. I think an easy answer would be how much Dante and I appreciate “The Great Divide.” Especially after a recent conversation we had with a certain author about a certain history in that episode that may have influenced a certain book or two…

How are you feeling about talking about Korra on Braving the Elements? Does it feel different than talking about ATLA? Honestly? So far, it doesn’t feel like it will be that different, because anytime I watch Korra, I get so immersed in the story, I basically forget I was in it. But how much Dante might get to tease me about little things like I tease him about Zuko? Now THAT could change things. LOL!

What is the process of planning and recording episodes like? It’s pretty involved, tbh! For a recap ep, I rewatch the episode in question at least three times. You know I like to see what Avatar Wiki has to say! I consult the art book and all the dvd commentary (luckily Nickelodeon made all the commentary/bts stuff available to me, which is great!). I think about the themes of the episode and what kind of guest would be really fun and why. And writing the outline really cements the episode for me in new and interesting ways. And then Dante and our guests STILL manage to blow my mind with their own insights!

Did you know about the spiritual arc that Korra was going to have in Season 4, or when and how did you learn about her bisexuality during production? I knew some broad strokes, but Bryke/the whole amazing team did a good job of keeping us in the moment, episode-by-episode. I can’t remember exactly when Bryke told Seychelle and me about Korrasami, but it was definitely one of the things we knew before it actually happened. And we were both so, so happy!

How do you think Korra grew from her relationship with Mako and the lessons she learned that contributed to a healthy relationship with Asami? Good old Mako. This was a relationship I recognized so well from my own teenage years, and my friends.’ So combine that it was in some ways a very classic teenage relationship with the Avatar circumstances on top of that, and it’s kind of hard to see how it would succeed. But at the same time— who’s to say what “succeeding” or “success” means? What if that relationship was a complete success in that it lasted exactly as long as it was supposed to, and helped Korra and Mako both see what they would really be looking for in a relationship going forward? Plus, it was a success in that she and Mako were ultimately able to love and support each other as dear friends, and that’s a beautiful outcome.

Do you miss and enjoy voicing Korra for as long as you have? Here’s the thing- I don’t know what my answer would be if I *didn’t* get to keep talking about both series (and all the other media in the Avatarverse!) at conventions with fellow fans and with Dante and everyone on the podcast. But because I get to live in the Avatarverse through those things, I honestly haven’t thought about “missing” doing the actual show. Please, everyone, just let me keep nerding out on Avatar forever, and I’ll be happy! ;)

[bread-squid-uwu]

(This might sound odd but) I’m rewatching season 1 of mystreet right now and the way Dante says “Travis…” when Travis does something gives me happy thoughts/ butterflies. Will that be included in your rewrite as well? 👀 Dante has soooo many moments where he shows off his responsible side and I love it

OH MY GOD, THIS IS LITERALLY MY FAVORITE THING EVER. ABSOLUTELY MY FAVORITE PART OF THEIR INTERACTIONS TOGETHER, aside from the stupid chaos.

It is 100% included in my rewrite, I honestly might add in more moments like that due to the dynamic I'm writing those two with, which I adore.

I love the more responsible and mature side of Dante, I love making him a natural caregiver and generally showing his loving and laid back side. Of course I'm absolutely a huge fan of his silly and impulsive side, and his terrible flirting, though. It doesn't exactly feel like DANTE if he isn't both, yknow? He's so, so much more than his impulsiveness and flirts, he's the first to show any remorse and rational thought towards the.. feathers situation, hes a nervous wreck at times, and he is a very good caregiver and reliable person - if you ignore the "two minute Dante" joke in season two, he actually manages to do a lot of good in the store. And especially in season three when Travis wants to learn more magics and such, he's showing a very caring leadership type of role with Travis - which is shown again in the house/room cleaning episode. It's my absolute favorite part of those two, honestly its my favorite dynamic in the whole series.

Dante helped Travis cope with and somewhat overcome that severe anxiety we see in high school, and that never really stops happening. Although the advice wasn't always good, I'm talking about the dating advice, anyone remember that dating book from PDH S2?? Yeah... not good. But, we see that dynamic grow and mature, look at S3 especially!! I'm going to be expanding on this heavily in my rewrite, I love it so much.

I'd also love to bring up that Dante and Travis met in middle school, with Dante stepping in to protect Travis from being bullied and picked on. From the START Dante has shown a very protective and caring nature, yeah he is a huge flirt and he made a ton of mistakes in high school especially, but so many people just ignore the parts of him that aren't his bad flirts and his chaotic impulsive nature.

In my rewrite I'm going to be FOCUSING on things like this, and including it as much as I can. Dante got neglected as a character in canon, and I'm giving him the love he deserves. 💙

I'm really really happy someone else understands that feeling when hearing that "Travis... what are you doing?"

[readreactrant]

Do you have top favorite character (or characters, if you feel like listing multiple) of all time from any media (animanga, tv series/cartoon/movies, books, etc)? Why love them?

Late reply cuz I kinda forgot abt this one hahah (٥↼_↼)

But oh do I have a LOT of them.

Starting off...

Bakugou Katsuki and Izuku Midoriya (MHA): they're amazing as a ship in their own right but as characters their both so deep and interesting with many layers and nuances interlaced between them.

Mikage Reo (Blue Lock): aside from easily getting attached to characters the fandom hates for no legit reason *coughs in Bakugou and Takemichi* he's literally the most perfect, precious cutie patootie. Not only that he's WIFE MATERIAL which is something instantly found attractive about him, the things I think about OMG (๑♡⌓♡๑)

Dante (Devil May Cry): I was fifteen and he was the coolest video game character I ever saw. Couldn't tell you which of the games tho, only watched and commented while my brother played. I did watch a few episodes of the anime but it's been so long I don't remember if I liked or hated it.

Ryomen Sukuna (Jujutsu Kaisen): We love a chaotic king, like yasss bitch, kill those innocent civilians yayyy!!!

Draco Malfoy (Harry Potter): Blond and bitchy just the way I like em.

Sano Manjiro (Tokyo Revengers): How are you the best fighter but oozing such bratty bottoms energy I love him!!!

Tyki Mikk (D.gray Man): He's a keeper when he can literally reach into your chest to stop your heart, sorry I don't make the rules (^^)

Kuroko Tetsuya (Kuroko no Basket): I'm rewatching the anime and why is he low-key so funny??? Aside from that drama just follows him constantly and I'm so down that.

Sung Jinwoo (Solo Leveling): Daddy and babygirl. The ultimate combo.

Ash Lynx (Banana Fish): *bursts into tears*

Yato and Yukine (Noragami): They're the only reason I considered picking up the manga when I realized there was probably no third season coming. Like I need to know how they're doing but I'm so lazy. They bounce off each other so well and I don't think I can like one without the other.

Lu Guang (Link Click): he came back in time for his boyfriend?!??! Season 3 where are you?!?!! (〒﹏〒)

Benimaru (Reincarnated as a Slime): Red haired, ogre Daddy.

Chloe Decker (Lucifer): I have a problem liking female characters cuz many of them rarely stick with me but I love her, she's cool, and in my honest opinion very well written.

Kaburagl T. Kotetsu aka Tiger (Tiger and Bunny): We stan single fathers with washed up energy. All he needs is a tall, blond brat to push his buttons.

Natsusa Yuzuki (Number 24): He's so sassy and dramatic I need him as my bestie ASAP. All that while having the whole cast wrapped around his fingers, truly the embodiment of gaslight, gatekeep, girlboss. I don't care if you disagree.

Lloyd Frontera (Greatest Estate Developer): The only taskmaster I'd willingly serve, they call him ugly I call him 'Sir'. Maniac???where?? All I see is a man trying to get his bag and be happy.

But that's all from me babes, those are all the characters I can think of off the top of my head. Mainly got to this cuz I don't think I'll make any real fan or shipping post this cuz I've got art and deadlines to attend to. Hoped anon likes my answers and I'll get to answer more questions like this.

[saintarmand]

8, 17, 21 & 22 for the iwtv ask thingy! 🤍

8. Who's your favorite actor?

jacob anderson. come on now. they're all great but he is ethereal. second place assad zaman

17. Have you read or watched anything because it was referenced in the show?

oh just a few things

love's coming of age by edward carpenter

chéri by colette

nausea by jean-paul sartre (louis was reading this in ep6 when lestat and claudia are playing chess while talking about nicki. you can't see the full cover but i went detective mode and figured it out)

madame bovary by gustave flaubert

a moveable feast by ernest hemingway (s2 first look "esurient hearts beating as one, the rumbling beast of the moveable feast")

iolanta (tchaikovsky opera)

don pasquale (donizetti opera)

pelléas et mélisande (debussy opera)

a doll's house (henrik ibsen play)

a streetcar named desire (tennessee williams play) + the movie with marlon brando

i didnt read the full text but i did hunt down and read parts of "de masticatione mortuorum, the chewing dead" that claudia mentions, full title "dissertatio historico-philosophica de masticatione mortuorum" by philip rohr (1679) (view the original manuscript here + english translation here)

i havent finished all of emily dickinson's poems yet but im getting there! (some of these i had read before ofc but im reading them all in order now)

ive also previously watched nosferatu (and rewatched it for iwtv) and the trimph of the will (NOT rewatching 💀 that was for a film history class) and ive read dante's inferno which louis mentions ("if i was to join dante's wood of the self-murdered...") and i highly recommend it!!! absolute fav

there's also stuff that wasn't directly referenced in the show but the fandom has drawn parallels to, that i've read and watched for that reason.

anne carson's an oresteia (to better understand all the agamemnon iphigenia clytemnestra electra comparisons people make)

giovanni's room by james baldwin

rebecca (1940 film)

theres def more movies but i cant remember lol

and theres some nonfiction books i've yet to finish bc im slow at nonfiction

the vampire: a casebook by alan dundes (cited by writers as s2 inspo! about irl vampire folklore)

black new orleans 1860-1880 by john w. blassingame for historical context

the theatre of fear and horror by mel gordon, on the grand guignol aka the inspiration for theatre des vampires (i did finish this one except for the summaries of all the plays, i decided to skip that there's so many. very engaging read and gives a lot of insight into the some of the bts stuff we've seen about the theatre)

louis's favorite movies from the tale of the the body thief!

la belle et la bête (1946)

the company of wolves (1984)

the dead (1987)

i may be forgetting some stuff. there's also so much more on my list that i mean to get to. a prayer for owen meany by john irving, of "memory is a monster" quote fame is locked and loaded for example

if anyone's interested to hear my thoughts on any of these feel free to ask i would love to talk about it!!!

all this and i've still only read the first 6 of the actual vampire chronicles. and im still procrastinating starting merrick

21. What was your favorite monologue of season one?

HMM the obvious one is louis's confession. ive watched the whole sequence from the funeral to the end of the episode a truly unhealthy number of times. also claudia's coffin monologue

22. Who's your favorite character? Why?

LOUIS. probably because i relate to him so much. instant connection. tricked into loving myself. also like hes literally louis how could i not love him do i need to even explain this

when i started reading the books i didnt care for book louis that much lol but i did become an armand stan. possibly bc i also relate to him im selfish like that i guess. also just his whole backstory and the way it informs everything he does is so fascinating to me. ppl say hes incomprehensible and hes literally not. everything he does makes sense when you consider his life experiences

iwtv ask game

[endversewinchester]

I find it so amusing Tella is refusing to call Dante “Dante” because according to her that’s not a real person but a character he played to trick her (all the while he put his whole guard after her once he couldn’t reach her in her dreams, and is salty over her spending the night with Jacks).

Meanwhile, this is the part of the book where Dante’s choices in Legendary of starting the apocalypse are truly catching up to him. His brother and Scarlett found a whole family that’d been petrified. Tella’s mother (who he watched Tella sacrifice it all to save) was just killed off in front of her, and the chapter ends with Jovan bringing even more troubling news.

To be in love with Tella is dangerous for him. For the entire world, and it is above all hurting her. So he falls back into the role of Legend. Of Elantine’s heir, and keeps that distance, but it is eating away at him to do so.

And I’m also obsessed with this:

He’s pleasantly surprised she followed him over there, because of course she did. Part of why he’s drawn to Tella is that she’s completely unpredictable. But this reaction is also to do with what he knows (his weakness) and she doesn’t.

Anyway. Just lovely rambles of my re-read because these two are my favorite Caraval blorbos and I cannot even with the amount of people that misinterpret them (or just don’t understand what is happening).

[thetypedwriter]

Hell Bent Book Review

Hell Bent Book Review by Leigh Bardugo 

I just didn’t like this book. I really wanted to. I love Leigh Bardugo and her Six of Crows duology are some of my favorite books of all time. However, her adult novels just don’t do it for me. 

One, I barely remember anything from the first book. Now, this one is on me. I could have reviewed more or even re-read the first book. I liked Ninth House enough to buy Hell Bent, but I do feel like Bardugo could have also done a better job of reintroducing the last book’s important events. 

Any time previous events were brought up, it genuinely didn’t ring a bell for me and it lessened the impact of Hell Bent overall as a direct sequel. 

Additionally, Hell Bent has so much terminology that isn’t necessary in any way, shape, or form. I remember this being a criticism of Ninth House as well, but it is twice as bad in the sequel. 

Bardguo spent more time in the first installment describing and reminding readers of the societies and all the titles, but she tosses that to the wind in this book. 

If she thinks readers will remember what Praetor or Virgil or Dante are, she is absolutely wrong. Or, I’m just stupid compared to the average reader (which I don’t think I am), but the terms made things overtly verbose and pretentious without offering any kind of substance or value. 

The actual plot of the novel I found tedious. It can be summed up by: Alex and her hodgepodge group of friends make several trips into hell in order to save Darlington (Alex’s mentor from the first book), who is trapped there. That’s it. It should be exciting, but it’s…not.

 The trips into hell are nonsensical and long, Alex is whiny, and none of the characters had any reason or solid motivation to help Alex. Some of them don’t even know Darlington. Alex herself shouldn’t have wanted to risk life and limb to rescue Darlington. 

They were friends, but that was it. Alex had known him for a short amount of time and their relationship wasn’t strong enough for me to believe that Alex would risk her life and the lives of others multiple times in order to save him. 

None of it came across as realistic and I found all of it unbelievable to a high degree. 

This disillusionment was the nail in the coffin for this novel. None of the characters behaved in believable ways and I didn’t find any of the relationships dynamic, interesting, relatable, or moving.

 Alex as a protagonist gets increasingly irritating as the novel progresses and her staying involved with Lethe and the societies confused me further and further considering how risky, time-consuming, and damning it is (literally). 

Unfortunately, there isn’t anything about this book that I really liked. The writing is fine, some of Barudugo’s more imaginative chapters I appreciated, but as a story I found the entire thing lackluster and a monotonous use of my time. 

I did finish it (with much skimming involved) because I had already bought it and I do feel some kind of allegiance to Leigh Bardguo (although that indebtedness is gone after this drivel). 

I will say that I recognize that perhaps Hell Bent came at a bad time in my life where there’s a lot of other things happening. Maybe I would have liked it a year ago or around the holidays or during summer. But, in the time I read it, it did not scratch my reading itch and instead makes me want to swear off Bardugo’s adult novels forever. 

Recommendation: Ninth House should have been a standalone novel. 

Score: 3/10