#dear lord what a post I hope everything's clear

[letomills]

A set of 23 geneticized & townified skins, including defaults for S1-S2-S3-S4 and the alien skin (choose between 2 alien options). Also, multiple sets of showerproof versions of these 23 skins, for those of you who are interested in custom body shapes.

This set is an evolution of this skin palette & its accompanying showerproof versions. I reused the old files, meaning that you can switch from the old palette to the new very easily (don't try to combine them though - see details under the cut).

Credit for the original skin textures goes to @whysim, @h0nkytonkangels, Nat / @theboldandthebeautifulsims, @pooklet and Tea Leaf, thank you so much to them!

First, let's talk about the regular set for Maxis shapes, then we'll get to the showerproof sets for custom body shapes.

1. The regular set

The palette contains 22 natural shades including S1, S2, S3 & S4 defaults + 2 options for the alien default (choose one). Skins 1-22 are geneticized and townified, the alien skins are townified. If you don't want all 23 skins, you can absolutely pick and choose, the genetic spectrum won't be disrupted.

Download skins: SFS / Mega

original 1 - original 2 - original 3

original 4 - original 5 - original 6

original 7 - original 8 - original 9

original 10 - original 11 - original 12

original 13 - original 14 - original 15

original 16 - original 17 - original 18

original 19 - original 20 - original 21

original 22 - original 23 h0nky - original 23 TeaLeaf

I edited some of the original textures so that: • everyone TU-EU has the appropriate fat, normal and fit states (for the alien textures to show up as they should, please use Argon's alien and zombie fitness fix) • all elders have wrinkles, except on TeaLeaf's Stargazer (I used @simnopke's subtle wrinkles) • all toddlers have the cute toddler teeth and babies have no teeth, • teeth from Nat's, Pooklet's and Tea Leaf's skins were replaced either with ones from the Whysim skins or the ones used on @serabiet's Those Darn Skins, just because they're less bright and I like that better.

I also fixed the toes on the Whysim37 skins and edited some boobs ↓

The number at the end of every file name (e.g. 0.05, 0.08, 0.1...) gives you the genetic value of that skin. To learn more about skin genetics, see Rikkulidea's tutorial.

💞 To the people who were using the old palette and want to switch to this one: all you need to do is delete the old skins from your downloads folder and replace them with the new ones (don't forget to delete the alien default you don't want). The new skins are on the same files as the old ones (although they haven't all kept the same number), except for skin #11 which is new. This means that after you make the switch, your sims who had skins from the old palette will update without you having to do anything with their genetics in simPE. And if you change your mind after having a look at your sims with the new palette, you can always switch back to the old one. The same files being reused also means that you can't use skins from the new palette alongside skins from the old, as they will conflict. The only exception is new skin #11, which is on a new file and can therefore be used alongside the old palette without issue. All of that also applies to the showerproof skins.

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2. The showerpoof skins

What are showerproof skins? They are skins linked to a custom body shape (or body shapes). When you give a showerproof skin to a sim, that sim will have the body shape that the skin is linked to when they are nude (taking a bath, streaking, doing ACR stuff, etc.). Showerproof skins have no effect whatsoever on clothing, because clothes use their own meshes.

These showerproof skins are for: • Melodie9 fat family • Momma Lisa F / Melodie9 Fat M • Androgyny F / Lifa's Trans M • Trans Melodie9 Fat M / Trans Momma Lisa • Dummy Thicc • MartaXL edit • Athletic Girl / Lean Body Builder

They are repo'd to the regular skins above: you need the regular set for the showerproof sets to work. Like the regular set, they're geneticized, except for the alien ones. You'll have to choose if you want them to be townified or not (townified skins can appear on new townies and NPCs that spawn, non-townified skins cannot).

The required meshes are included, don't forget to choose between blockfeet/sexyfeet/Marvine feet and Maxis hands/smooth hands. If you're missing meshes, the affected sims will appear as floating heads or will be missing half their bodies when naked (it won't break your game in any way, it's just definitely not the intended result).

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❥ Melodie9 Fat Family (M9Fat)

TM/TF/AF/EF are linked to Melodie9 fat TM/TF/AF/EF, AM & EM are both linked to Melodie9 fat AM. Children and younger are Maxis.

Download Melodie9 fat family: SFS / Mega

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❥ Momma Lisa - Melodie9 Fat Male (ML-MFM)

AF & EF are linked to Momma Lisa, AM & EM are linked to Melodie9 Fat AM, TF/TM are linked to Melodie9 Fat TF/TM.

Download ML-MFM: SFS / Mega

Note on the included meshes: the original nude fat family meshes are from Melodie9's MTS, but turns out those are, well, not how top and bottom meshes are supposed to be: all of them are full-body, doubling the polycounts unnecessarily (I somehow only realized that today). So that's fixed now, and I took the opportunity to add preg morphs to the teen meshes.

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❥ Androgyny AF-EF - Lifa's Trans AEM (AndroF-AMTr)

AF/EF are linked to Androgyny AF/EF, AM & EM are linked to Lifa / @withlovefromsimtown's Trans Male. Teens and younger are Maxis.

Download AndroF-AMTr: SFS / Mega

✨Alternative set: if you want teens to have trans shapes too (choose either the "AndroF-AMTr" set above or the "AndroUF-UMTr" set below) ↓

❥ Androgyny TF-AF-EF - Lifa's Trans TM-AEM (AndroUF-UMTr)

TF/AF/EF are linked to Androgyny TF/AF/EF. TM, AM & EM are linked to Lifa / @withlovefromsimtown's trans male shapes. Children and younger are Maxis.

Download AndroUF-UMTr: SFS / Mega

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❥ Trans Momma Lisa - Trans Melodie9 Fat Male (TrML-TrMFM)

AF & EF are linked to @kaluxsims's Trans Melodie9 fat Male, AM & EM are linked to her Trans Momma Lisa. Teens are Melodie9 Fat TF/TM.

Download TrML-TrMFM: SFS / Mega

Note on the included meshes: you'll see that they're available in 3 versions (choose one - previews are included). The "Leto edit" blockfeet & sexyfeet versions better match all the underwear and swimwear that I've shared for these body shapes (especially in the case of TrML).

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❥ Dummy Thicc (DT)

AF & EF linked to @digisims2's Dummy Thicc, TF linked to my Dummy Thicc TF. All others are Maxis.

Download Dummy Thicc: SFS / Mega

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❥ MartaXL

AF & EF linked to @brattylulu's MartaXL, TF linked to Melodie9's fat TF. All others are Maxis.

Download MartaXL: SFS / Mega

✨ Alternative set: if you'd rather have M sims linked to Melodie9 fat male (choose either the "MartaXL" set above or the "MartaXL-MFM" set below) ↓

❥ MartaXL - Melodie9 fat male (MartaXL-MFM)

AF & EF linked to Brattylulu's MartaXL, TF/TM/AM-EM linked to Melodie9's fat TF/TM/AM. Children and younger are Maxis.

Download MartaXL-MFM: SFS / Mega

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❥ Athletic Girl / Lean Body Builder (AG-LBB)

TF, AF & EF are linked to Marvine / @blueheavensims's Athletic Girl; TM, AM & EM are linked to Synapticsim / @blueheavensims's Lean Body Builder. Children and younger are Maxis.

Download AG-LBB: SFS / Mega

Note on the included meshes: you'll have to choose between 2 versions, either "HD" or "low poly" (previews are included). The HD meshes are the top and bottom meshes that BlueHeavenSims shared here, with a couple tweaks (smoothed normals on the forearms, fixed shoulders on the LBB fat morphs) - they have sexyfeet, smooth hands, 3D nipples and are high-poly (6,454 poly for full-body AG; 8,601 poly for full-body LBB). The low-poly meshes are top and bottom meshes I made based on Marvine's original AG and Synapticsim's original LBB v.2.0 (I added morphs with BlueHeavenSims's morphs as reference) - they have blockfeet, Maxis hands and are low-poly (1,960 for full-body AG; 2,186 poly for full-body LBB).

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Further info

All of these skins are tooltipped, have their custom thumbnails and are sortindexed so that they will appear tidily set after set in your custom skins bin. If you use other skins though, there is a chance that those will appear jumbled up with mine if their sortindex numbers happen to clash. It's only an aesthetic issue but if it bothers you, see this tutorial by Kurimas on how to change the order in which clothes appear in the CAS catalogue (it works for skins and other bodyshop content too).

Why make the showerproof skins repo-only? 1. Repo'd files = smaller files. 2. If you don't like the textures that I picked for the regular set, you can replace them with your favorites in simPE if you know how to do that and all the repo'd files will follow suit. This way you can get all the showerproof skins to have the textures that you like with much less work than if you had to edit them one by one.

[theworldofotps]

Painting (Drabble)

Pairing: Lord Debling x Reader Word Count: 743 Description: Y/n is struggling with a painting when she recieves some much needed help.

So, I have never written fanfiction for Bridgerton before but after watching the first half of season 3 and meeting Lord Debling I couldn't help myself. I'm also very nervous to post this because it's a bit out of my comfort zone but I hope you enjoy anyway.

Dedicated to: @madhatterbri who encouraged me to write this, helped form the plot and is overall one of the best. I appreciate you so much thank you! (I haven't added my normal tag list since those are usually just for wrestling. If you'd like to be added to a tag list of anything I write besides wrestling let me know!) __________ Y/n let out a soft huff as she wiped her forehead with the back of her hand, staring at the canvas in front of her. She’d spent the last two hours trying to paint a bird from the book set on a stool in front of her. This was a painting she just didn��t want to mess up on but the more she stared at it the worse it seemed to look.

“Is everything alright m’lady?”

“Yes Ruth, just having a bit of difficulty getting these colors to work and blend the way that I wish them too.”

“Please let me know when you are ready, and I shall draw the bath for you.”

“Thank you, Ruth.”

Watching the maid leave, Y/n turns back towards her painting and examines the book once more. Adjusting the apron she wore over her dress to keep from ruining it, she dipped into her paints again. More time passed and her frustrations only grew as the colors started running and made the bird look like a mess.

Dropping the paintbrush in the pot of water she hung her head in defeat, deciding to just start all over again. Not having heard the door open she nearly jumped, feeling a pair of arms wrapping around her before a chuckle sounded in her ear.

“Sorry to startle you love I thought you heard me enter.”

“That’s alright my lord I just was focusing on something else.”

Alfred glanced around to be sure they were alone before pressing a soft kiss to her neck.

“Tell me what’s the matter.”

“I’m trying to paint this bird and all of my colors keep running I’ve spent hours on it but alas to no avail.”

Remaining silently as his eyes drifted over the canvas in front of them, since they had began courting he was trying to take interest in her hobbies. When he found out she had a love for painting much like his mother, it was one he quickly did his best to learn all he could about it.

“Allow me to offer my assistance to you.”

Grabbing her hand gently together they picked up the brush, the sparks of electricity she felt as they moved together dipping into her paint pallet. She could barely concentrate at the feel of him pressed against her back. When the brush touched the canvas, she let out a soft laugh.

“What is it brining you such joy my dear?”

“Your beard tickles my cheek.”

Y/n spoke softly as his own smile grew to match hers the two talking in soft whispers as he helped her fix the once ruined picture.

“What do you think?”

“It looks so much better thank you for your help now we both must sign it.”

She said pointing to the feather quill and pot of ink sat on the desk a few feet away from them, Alfred reached over grabbing the quill. Signing the name Debling then placing the quill in her hand so she could sign her last name.

Placing it back in the ink pot Y/n slowly turned to face him their eyes meeting hers lighting up as his softened.

“Miss. Y/n  I know this may come forth as a bit forward but may I kiss you?”

He asked a slight nervous quiver to his voice if you listened close enough she remained silently causing him to clear in throat. The last thing he wanted was for her to feel pressured into anything. After a moment her smile grew as she leaned closer to him their lips brushing in the softest touch before a knock on the door sent them apart. Composing themselves she turned to see Ruth entering one more.

“Excuse me miss but your mother is looking for you.”

“Thank you, Ruth please tell her, that I will be right there.”

Ruth nodded, leaving them alone again y/n sighing softly she turned back to Alfred who gently touched her cheek.

“I must be going as it is rather late, I shall call upon you tomorrow afternoon would that be alright?”

“Yes, I would enjoy that very much my lord.”

The pair left the room and y/n saw him to the front entrance, his fingers once more touching her cheek in a bid farewell. Watching him leave she sighed her arms wrapping around herself, the thought of his arms around her caused her face to heat up. Turning, she went off in search of her mother.

[cleopatra-x]

Worth It (18+)

Pairing | Aemond Targaryen x female reader

Summary | Until your wedding night, Aemond never allowed himself have his way with you.

Warnings | SEXUAL CONTENT - DNI; exhibitionism, light ass play, degradation, light spanking

word count | 1.4k

Notes | Sorry for not posting, my power was out for a while. NOT proof read. Divider by @princessbellecerise

Aemond never allowed himself have his way with you.

He would often stop you, avoiding the act to not bring shame on his reputation and family. He was so righteous that it nearly blinded you with rage. You just wanted him inside of you, is that truly so much to ask for?

Though you would never admit it, you went so far as to grind yourself against multiple objects. You knew it was entirely improper for a noble woman like yourself to do such wanton things but everything about Aemond Targaryen turned you on. It was extremely frustrating.

Despite him constantly denying you, he was extremely good to you. He was understanding, and did everything for you.

Today was your wedding day, and it is time for celebration. Lords from all of the seven kingdoms gathered here today and enjoyed a grand feast. You knew it wouldn’t last long, your husband was not the type to enjoy big crowds. He nodded or hummed whenever someone approached to congratulate the two of you.

You subtly placed a hand on Aemon’s leg causing him to finally look at him. “How soon can we retire?” You whisper, keeping a neutral expression.

His eye roams over your face, trying to figure out what you’re thinking. “Just a few minutes, my love.” He squeezes your hand lovely- not understanding your intentions- before turning to conversate with his grandsire, Otto.

You huff childishly, and slipped your hand out of his. It was your wedding night, you felt that his attention should solely be on you  

Though Aemond kept his composure, you could tell he was getting annoyed by your behavior. Maybe you were overreacting but you couldn’t allow yourself to care in the moment. He didn’t even dance with you. 

He harshly gripped your forearm, out of eyesight, before grazing his lips against the shell of your ear. “Don’t be a brat, dear wife. Calm yourself.”

You rolled your eyes in response, yanking your arm out of his threating grip. “Make me.” You shrugged innocently, hoping he would finally get the idea.

His eye widened in realization, he was still visibly annoyed with the way you were acting.

He abruptly stood, pulling you up with you. The action caused the entire room to fall silent, “We will be retiring for the night, mother.” He spoke directly to Queen, ignoring the stares of your guest.

Without the Queens’ approval, he all but dragged you out of the hall.

Everyone cheered and congratulated you both as you walked through. All the men patting your husband on the back, saying lewd things about what’s to come. Aemond doesn’t entertain their jesting. Even though what you’re about to do is no secret, it is still quite embarrassing.

You were relieved that the Queen had deemed the traditional bedding ceremony an affront to the Seven. You feared having old men watch you lose your maidenhead.

The walk to your quarters was tense and silent, each with their own thoughts. You began to regret having an attitude, you didn’t want to ruin your wedding night after all. He was so patient and you were indeed being a brat.

“Aemond..” you wanted to apologize before entering your marital chambers.

“Quiet.” He commanded, the threat clear as day in his voice.

You knew you were a lot to handle at times, but you still cared about his feelings. Heavy guilt arose into you, hating yourself for being annoying. You swallowed audibly, deciding to ignore his order.

“I apologize for―,” your words fell short when your newly wed pushed you up along one of the walls. His solid front pressed against your back. Your chest rose and fell with noticeable breaths, the harsh action taking you by surprise.

You inhaled deeply feeling his warm breath tickle your cheek. “You were too busy being wanton to show respect to your husband?”

You simply nodded, deciding not to talk back. He was your husband now, you were to obey his every command. You felt oddly small with him towering behind you. You couldn’t help but find his size advantage over you to be quite exciting.

Thankfully, you hear the celebrations continue, so no one should be strolling these halls― but anyone could

If anyone were to pass in the hall and witness the two of you so close, you would surely be the topic of gossip for the whole year.

The shameful thought sends a jolt of pleasure down your spine, arousal trailing down your inner thighs.

“I’ve been far too lenient with you, little one.” As he spoke, you could feel his hardened cock against your backside, making your eyes widen. “Lift up your wedding dress, love.”

You nearly choked on your spit when he breathed out his last sentence. Sure, you’ve fantasied about him taking you in public, but you didn’t ever think it would become a reality.

“Aemond.. you can’t possibly―,”

A swat across your backside made you yelp, the sting forced you to press your thighs together in anticipation. Knowing what that meant, you raised your dress, the cool air burning your dripping core.

His large hand trailed down, reaching between your legs, suddenly cupping your cunt into his hand. The action made you arch, your nipples getting hard as they were pressed up against the stone-cold war.

Whining, you squirm your hips against his hand, seeking any friction, only to be rewarded with another slap, this time on your sopping cunt.

He traced up your slit to work your bud. When you gasped and tilted your head back, he took the advantage of the gesture and bit down on your neck. He kept rubbing your bud till it was engorged and sensitive beneath his gaze.

“I truly love your cunt.” He groans as he ruts against your backside, getting himself off. “You feel what you do to me?”

He slowly eased a finger into your cunt. You choked on a gasp, whimpering at the sudden sensation. Your body desperately clenched around him. Loud moans filled the empty halls.

He spanked you again, making you hiccup, “I said do you feel me.”

You nodded immediately, not daring to question him and possibly make him stop. “Yes, I feel you husband.”

Your stomach clenched, the pressure and pleasure of his fingers built in your core. You freed your breasts from your dress and sighed as the wind blew against your pebbled nipples.

“It feels so good, more, please.” You cry, the cold against your harden peaks becoming nearly painful. On cue, he increased his pace. Lewd wet sounds accented your moans. Your body felt as if it was on fire, your cunt deliciously full, the thickness of his fingers stretching you out, just the way you imagined.

“Maybe this was all you needed,” he groans, shoving his fingers deeper. “Something between your legs to shut you up.”

He gathered your slick with his other hand, dragging it up until it set on your puckered hole, circling the rim of it slowly, spreading the arousal, as his other fingers continue to assault your cunt.

The foreign sensations makes you whimper pathetically, and you push your hips towards him, seeking more.

Slowly, he pushes the tip of his thumb inside your arse. The stretch feels odd to begin, but you like it. You felt and heard him spit on your tight hole, emitting a loud moan from you.

“Aem..” you were half-mad with pleasure, each thrust making you feel like you were in heaven.

“You like having both of your holes filled, don’t you, dear wife.” He bites your earlobe, all of these sensations overpowering you.

“Oh gods― yes, I love being filled.” Beautiful white pleasure enveloped you. During your orgasm, your spine flexed, your nipples hardened, and your cunt spasmed around his fingers. A low cry warbles from your throat against the wall at the feeling.

Your vision turned dark as your blood rushes into your ears, losing control of your limbs. A flood of moisture flows from you, but you're not entirely aware of it because you're far too engrossed in your ecstasy.

You immediately snapped out of your haze at the sound of shoes pattering on the ground. Realizing and shame flooded your body, knowing what you and your newly wed did was morally wrong.

“I will be going to our marital chambers.” Your husband was also aware of the upcoming presence, “Come with me and I��ll fuck my seed into you, or you could get caught by whoever.”

You’ve never moved so very quickly, righting your dress and scrambling after him. Deciding to ignore your wetness gushing out of you.

You were finally receiving what you wanted all along.

[deyisacherry]

wow

wooow, SO i just saw a post and

okay

have we been watching the same show?

dear lord, i think saying that moon replaced sun with solar it's completely exaggerated, and saying that he doesn't care about sun, and wouldn't care this much if sun died is just ABSURD

i wanna make it clear, i am NOT defending Moon's actions and words right now cause i'm mAD AF, but that's another topic

Moon doesn't care about Sun? He doesn't act to show that? REALLY?

cause all i've seen is moon worrying over and over and over again about his brother

HE CARES for him.

he cares SO MUCH that he even overthinked the things that he told to Earth in therapy, he was WORRIED for him, cause he FEARS he's going to lose him by the slightest thing

cause he almost lost him

when Sun used star power HE CARED.

he was dead worried about him, MAY I NEED TO REMIND HIS WORDS OF PURE PAIN TO EVEN THINK TO LOSE HIM LIKE THAT?

CAUSE THAT WENT HARD

when he was about to kill Eclipse, he SWORE to him that if Sun was dead when he came back, he would go and kill every single one of the evil Eclipses that exist in other dimensions (he's been having these violent thoughts to protect his family from the start and even if they won't fix anything it shows that he CARES)

He was worried about Sun when he saw the state he was in when he came back

HE WORRIED WHEN SUN WAS IN THE RUIN DIMENSION AND SNAPPED AT NOTHING (THE BLOODMOON HALLUCINATIONS) AND HE EVEN WENT TO HUG HIM T W I C E

THAT'S NOT CARING????

HE WAS WORRIED AND ANGRY AT RUIN WHEN HE KIDNAPPED HIM! EVEN WHEN HE FELT BETRAYED BY SUN LYING TO HIM ABOUT THE STAR POWER HE WENT FOR HIM

AND DEAR GOD, DIDN'T WE ALL HEAR THE WAY HE SCREAMED HIS LUNGS OUT WHEN ECLIPSE TOLD HIM THAT RUIN WAS WITH SUN????

and even then people come and say he doesn't care about Sun and wouldn't care this much if he dies? nuh uh, i'm not having any of that, im sorry, but NO

and about Lunar and Earth

i think people are forgetting he LITERALLY woke up NOT KNOWING LUNAR, the old Moon didn't get to know he died, and New Moon couldn't get attatched to him before he died cause he woke up AFTER that, AND they had the hope of Lunar being rebuilt

Earth? She didn't even die and Moon was ANGRY AS HELL when he found out what Bloodmoon did and HE ALSO WENT FOR REVENGE on them, HE ALSO got mad when he knew that Bloodmoon hurted Lunar

IF SUN DIES?

jesus

if he is like this with Solar's dead

if he is going insane

HE WOULD GET EVEN WORSE.

all i can think it's him breaking down once and for all, and A LOT OF OTHER TERRIBLE THINGS CAUSE YEAH

SUN IS THE LIGHT OF HIS LIFE

HE IS THE FIRST PERSON HE GOT TO KNOW AND GET MEMORIES FROM WHEN HE WOKE UP, HE'S EVERYTHING TO HIM, HE'S HIS BROTHER!!!

moon would be

DEVASTASTED, MORE THAN HE IS NOW, IF SUN DIES

IF EARTH DIES, IF LUNAR DIES

HE HAS REPEATED OVER AND OVER THAT HE DOESN'T WANT ANY OTHER FAMILY MEMBER DYING AND HE MEANS IT

HE. CARES.

and damn i'm sorry if i sound aggresive but i'm SO TIRED of people saying that Moon never cares

and i clearify again, I DO NOT JUSTIFY HIS ACTIONS FROM THESE DAYS, IT ANGERS ME, AND HE SAID TERRIBLE THINGS AND I HOPE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD THAT HE GETS TO UNDERSTAND THAT HE'S DOING THIS WRONG, CAUSE I RATHER JUST BE SAD THAT SOLAR WON'T BE BACK THAN SEEING HIM DO SOMETHING IDIOTIC TO BRING HIM BACK AND THEN GETTING AWAY FROM HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS

[moonywritez6]

It's In The Way (Reupload)

Characters: Douma, Muzan, Karaku, Urogi 

Reader: fem reader 

Warning: harsh language, pet names, blood, fluff, NSFW mentions (Muzan, Douma), slight NSFW (Karaku)

Context: He notices a strand of hair behind the reader's ear to help her get it out of her face.

Wc: 4,751

A/n: Hello my sweets! Unfortunately, I got locked out of my old blog account, so I had to make a new one! So, chances of you having seen this before are high as it's on my old account! (I am so sad about it honestly). But I am going through all my old accounts posts and reuploading them here! I hope you can still enjoy my works!

______________________________________________________________

Muzan

You silently sat across from your boyfriend, watching as he focused solely on whatever he was working on this time in his lab. You never really said much, so Muzan never complained about you hovering over his shoulder whenever he worked on his projects. You lean forward, eyes scanning all the vials and strange potions that littered his desk. Muzan watched as your eyes sparkled with each item, your curiosity knowing no bounds. Muzan internally chuckles, loving your curious nature, finding it to be something you had managed to keep from when you lived as a human. “Y/n.” He watched as the sudden sound of his voice scared you, causing you to jump as you quickly moved away from his desk, thinking that maybe you had gotten too close.

"S-sorry, lord Muzan. Was I in the way?" You asked, giving him those pathetically sad eyes that drove him mad inside. He shook his head, giving the faintest of smiles, one that, if you weren't so observant due to your curious nature, you would have missed. "Not at all, my dear." He spoke in that rare calm voice that caused your body to relax as you gave him a tiny smile of your own, perking up in your seat as you awaited his following words. Muzan's finger twitched as he held one of his vials. He felt his entire body stiffen as he fought the urge to go and place his hand against your soft-looking cheek. With a slight cough, he cleared his throat, regaining his composure as he looked away from your form.

"I was going to ask if you could find a certain article for me in that book next to you." You looked to your left, seeing the old and worn-down book placed neatly on the desk. You hum, nodding as you carefully pick up the book, placing it in your lap like a newborn child. You knew that Muzan's work meant everything to him and that he had suffered and killed many to obtain it. "May I ask what information the article contains, Lord Muzan?" You questioned softly, not wishing to bother him with your voice. Muzan hummed, glancing over at you momentarily before mumbling what he needed. You quickly got to work as you flipped through the pages each time with a gentle touch, scared that you would damage the already old book in any way.

Muzan continued with his work, occasionally sparing you a tiny glance to see if you had found what he needed yet. When he looked at you, he saw the serious look on your face, eyes narrowed in concentration as curiosity practically poured from them with each piece of information consumed into your brain. After a moment, he stops what he is doing, seeing that you are too absorbed in the book to notice. He rests his elbow on the desk, his chin in his palm, as he silently watches his lover with piercing red eyes. 'Her eyes haven't changed.' He thought, recalling when he had first met you about fifty years ago.

________

Muzan walked down a quiet stone path through the woods, the only light being that of the moon, which reflected off his pale skin. Muzan enjoyed the quiet and peaceful night, finding it relaxing as he was constantly under immense pressure due to the demon slayers continually chasing after him and ruining his plans. He clenches his jaw; a vein pops in his head just from the thought. Suddenly, he stops as a smell wafts through the air, causing what little noise in the woods to stop, leaving him completely silent. He sniffs the air, a hum leaving his lips as he walks again, this time towards the smell.

The closer he got, the stronger the smell became. "Ah, I was wondering where the smell was coming from." He mumbled, standing before a pair of stone steps that he assumed would lead to an abandoned temple. "So it was you." His red eyes flashed to a girl slumped over on the bottom of the steps. He stood in front of her with an unamused look as he went and kicked her with his shoe, watching as she flinched slightly. "Oh? Still alive?" His tone held slight amusement as he watched the girl squirm, slowly lifting her head, eyes locking with his. He could see the dark circles under her eyes, her skin looking pale. The girl said nothing as she stared up at him, allowing her middle section to be exposed. "Ah, there it is." He hummed eyes, taking in the blood-stained fabric of your kimono.

"How pathetic for you to die in the woods by yourself." He taunted while crouching in front of the girl who remained silent. "You pathetic thing….you must be so unloved if this is how they left you." He watched as the girl flinched when he pressed his fingers into the wound, tears forming in her eyes. Muzan felt joy fill his body as he continued to mess with the injury. "Tell me…do you want to be useful for once and become my meal?" He tilted his head, looking at the girl unimpressed as he licked his finger, tasting her blood. A Shiver ran through his body at the taste, wanting to hurry and quell his dying hunger. The girl just looked at him, eyes shining with curiosity.

"Are you…not human?" She finally whispered, her voice soft and kind. It was like she didn't want to disrupt the peace of the night. Muzan looked at the girl, grabbing her roughly by the chin as he examined her. "Do I look human to you? Tell me you're not that stupid." He scoffed, brows furrowed. The girl just looked at him with an apologetic smile gracing her lips as she went and coughed harshly, blood splattering on Muzan's hand and sleeve due to his remaining grip on her. "Forgive me… I've just never met someone like you, sir…" She coughed, trying to bring a hand to her lips to wipe away the blood. Muzan stops her as he swipes the blood with his thumb, bringing it to his lips.

The girl smiles up at him, her vision appearing to get blurry. "If my death helps a creature like you survive, I don't mind… I'm curious…are there more like you?" Muzan just stared at the girl, watching and listening as she slowly asked questions about him and others like him. Her eyes, which were once void of any emotion and practically life, now lit up and oozed with curiosity. "How annoying." He sighed before standing up to look around the area. The girl stared up at him before a gentle smile graced her face as she looked up at him, blood staining her mouth, eyes beaming with curiosity. "I'm sure you're in a hurry, sir, so that I won't keep you anymore…please do as you will." You spoke with complete honesty. Muzan stared at you with an annoyed look as he watched her eyes start to close. He reached out for her, ready to consume her flesh and blood, but stopped hand flinching when he heard her last words. "You have beautiful eyes…"

After that, Muzan injected his blood into the girl waiting in the shadows to see if she would become a demon. When it worked, he appeared in front of her, watching as she looked up with, to his surprise, those same curious eyes that he found burning his soul. She looked at him before a small smile crossed her face as she kneeled before him. "Lord Muzan." She greeted. Muzan momentarily looked down at her form before turning on his heel to walk ahead. "From now on, you will be by my side. Do I make myself clear?" He mumbled with his usual tone. The girl just followed behind him in silence.

"Y/n… that's your name."

________

Muzan found himself finding the memory pleasant as he returned to reality. When he looks at you, he notices a strand of hair has fallen in your line of sight, but you were too into the book that you failed to notice. Muzan says nothing as he reaches over the desk, carefully pushing the strand of hair behind your ear. You jump at the sudden contact, causing Muzan to smile slightly as he goes and cups your cheek. "You had some hair in your way, Y/n." You blushed somewhat as you obediently leaned into your Lord's touch, a slight hum falling from your lips. Muzan's jaw clenched at the adorable action, wanting to toss everything off his desk and take you for himself.

He lets out a deep breath while looking back into your curious eyes. He tilts his head, silently admiring them before the words leave his lips without processing. "I love those eyes of yours…. they're filled with so much curiosity." He whispered with that extremely rare tone of his that caused you to feel like your entire world was on fire. You place a kiss on the wrist of the hand, still cupping your cheek, feeling your lover stiffen at the sudden act. "I love your eyes as well lord Muzan… they're such a beautiful red." You confessed. Before you could react, Muzan had you pinned to his desk, his lips roughly pressed against yours, causing a small squeak to leave your lips.

He pulls away his hands, gripping your sides to the point you thought he would bruise them. You look up at your lover, eyes wide in shock, a deep blush covering your cheeks. He looks down at you, eyes feral as the veins in his neck start to pop out while he clenches his jaw, a dark smirk on his face as a tiny blush coats his cheeks. “Y/n…” He whispered, still having self-control over his desires as he went and moved a strand of hair from your face once again. You watch his eyes fill with love and lust while he brushes his thumb across your lips, lifting your chin.

"I love you...so only look at me with those eyes."

Douma

Douma sat in his seat with a bored expression as he looked down at you sitting on the floor with a book in your hands. "Y/n~ Is this really necessary? I'm so bored." The upper moon whined, causing an annoyed look to cross your face as you glared back up at him. "Lord Douma you were the one who assigned me with keeping track of all your followers' requests, wishes, needs, along with when they show up followed by when they disappear." You tapped on the book with your palm aggressively while looking at him, eye twitching. Douma just smiled as he went and ruffled your hair, causing you to get even more annoyed, but you knew better than to swat him away.

"Haha! You're such a silly girl, Y/n~ I love it when you're mad; it reminds me of a stray cat~" He teased, knowing that comparison would drive you crazy with rage. You sat there, face red with anger, gripping the book closer to your chest. "Oh, a stray cat, huh? My Lord Douma, you shouldn't speak to your girlfriend like that, should you~?" You sang in a deadly tone. Your words weren't a complete lie as a few months ago Douma had asked for you to be his pet, to which you agreed but informed him that the proper human term he should use is girlfriend so he wouldn't draw any unnecessary concern. "Oh~ feisty today, my little kitty~?" He teased even more, finding your annoyed expression amusing, his chest growing light at the sight.

"May I get back to my duties, Lord Douma?" You questioned, returning to your original seating position—Douma hummed, leaning on his hand, allowing you to continue. You picked up where you had left off, your mouth moving; however, the words weren't reaching Douma's ears. He watched your small form closely, eyes scanning every part of your body. He stares at your face, ensuring he takes in each annoyed expression that crosses your face. He loved how your brows knit together when you read a request or wish that you found to be stupid or ridiculous. He hummed, remembering when he first saw you angry and how much fun he thought it would be to mess with you.

_________

Douma sat in his room, tearing at the flesh of a female cult member. Another one sat in his room, cowering in fear as she watched her friend get eaten right in front of her. "It's rude to stare, you know~" Douma sang, looking at the girl with a giant smile, blood dripping from his chin. The girl panicked as tears ran down her face before she quickly tried to run out of the room to scream for help. Of course, Douma wasn't worried in the slightest as he let out a deep sigh, standing up to go and grab his runaway meal. When he goes to step foot out of his room, he hears the girl screaming for a familiar name. "Y/n-chan! Y/n-chan, please save me!" The girl cried, falling to her knees.

Douma stands in his doorway, watching the two girls interact. You stood there, face void of any emotions as usual, which made Douma find you boring, hating whenever you would look at him with such a dull expression. "What happened?" You asked while looking down at the girl who clung to your gown. You took note of the blood staining the white fabric of both your clothes as her blood-stained hands refused to lighten their grip. "L-Lord Douma! He-he-!" The girl stopped, her entire body freezing, when she saw Douma standing in his doorway, still covered in blood, with a smile on his face. He wasn't scared of her telling you what he was doing; it just meant you would have to die. Your eyes traveled towards Douma, who had started walking towards the two of you with a smile.

"Oh my! If it isn't Y/n-chan~!" He sang, clapping his hands together. The girl gripping your clothes started to panic as she tried to crawl away from the man you had devoted your entire life to due to your parents selling you off, leaving you with nothing. "M-Monster! Y/n-chan Douma isn't a blessing; he's a curse! He's a monster who-!" The girl's words cut off when you suddenly grabbed her by the hair, aggressively yanking her head back. Your sudden action causes Douma to stop in his tracks, eyes widening as he watches your usual blank face show the emotion of pure rage as you shake the girl's head, practically slamming it to the ground. "Who the hell do you think you are talking like that?" You hissed; eyes boring into her cowering figure as she tried to free herself from your grip. "It's Lord Douma, you lowly scum. How dare you insult him when he has graciously taken you in and given you, his time." You start dragging the girl back towards Douma, who stands still in awe before a giant smile appears on his face, finding this sudden change in behavior fun.

"Y/n-chan! Please! He'll kill me!" The girl begged as she kicked her legs aggressively, her hands digging into the dirt as she tried to escape. "If Lord Douma wants you dead, then you die. Who are you to oppose him? Do you even have anything to live for?" Our harsh words seemed to hit the girl as she became silent, her eyes once filled with fear going blank as she realized her existence means nothing. You stop in front of Douma's face, returning to being blank. "Lord Douma, please do with us as you wish. I am sure that seeing this is inconvenient for you. I only hope my flesh will suffice." You spoke as you placed a hand between your chest, giving a slight bow of your head. Douma just hummed, a giant smile still on his face as he bent down to your height, his face inches from yours.

"My~ my~ so you make a face like that, Y/n-chan? I always thought you were so boring…but now…" He grips your face between his hands, a giant smile on his face, eyes filled with excitement. "I find you to be so amusing!" He laughed, his eyes scanning yours for that rage they held only moments ago. "Be my pet, Y/n-chan~! I want you to entertain me~"

________

Douma shivers at the memory, wishing to see that same rage from that day again. He looks back down at you to see you're still talking as you read from the book, repeatedly trying to push back this one strand of hair. Douma watches the annoyed look cross your face because it constantly falls back into your view. After being entertained by your frustration, he leaned forward, carefully pulling your hair back with one hand, causing you to stop talking, your body stiffening at the sudden contact as you glanced back at him. "Did I do something wrong, Lord Douma?" Your question caused him to chuckle as he continued to play with your hair.

"Not at all~ I just noticed you struggling with it, so I thought I would be a good boyfriend and pull it back for you!" His response had you looking away with a tiny blush on your cheeks. Douma catches this, an evil glint in his eyes as he finds your reaction cute. As you finish the daily report, Douma carefully styles your hair so it won't get in the way anymore. "There we go! Why don't you take a look, Y/n-chan?" He was proud of his work as an ice shard appeared before you. You looked at your hair, a tiny smile forming as your heart went crazy thinking about your Lord's sudden gesture. Douma looked at your smile, eyes wide, before quickly picking you up and placing you on his lap facing him. "L-Lord Douma?!" You cried, surprised by his sudden action, not used to him being so affectionate.

"Y/n-chan~ you're so cute and innocent~" He cooed before roughly placing his lips on yours, causing you to whine as he bit your lip, drawing a tiny bead of blood. Douma licked the blood, letting a small moan into the kiss as he loved how you tasted. The two of you pull away from each other, Douma with a giant smile while you glared at him, embarrassed, a deep blush on your cheeks. "Lord Douma! What if someone walked in?!" You cried. He just looked at you, licking his lips as he grabbed your wrists with one hand, pulling you closer to him.

“Y/n…I want more…be a good pet and show me all your faces~"

Karaku

Karaku sat on the couch of the hideout, his eyes staring lustfully, a smirk on his face as he watched you walking around the place, cleaning anywhere you could. He loved watching you whenever you decided to clean up the home. Yes, you were initially meant to be a meal, but Karaku couldn't bring himself to eat you when you looked at him with such a cute face while you let out small sobs to keep you alive, bringing a shiver throughout his body. Ever since then, he has kept you as his plaything. "K-Karaku, do you have to watch me every time?" You shyly asked while messing with the hem of your shirt, feeling embarrassed from the constant eyes on you.

Karaku hummed, his smirk growing as he shrugged, leaning further into the couch. "Of course, I do! Your body moves so sexy when you do it!" he laughed, unashamed by his inappropriate comment. Your face turned red as you returned to cleaning, not wanting to hear any other profanities that would leave his lips. Karaku just licked his lips, finding your shy behavior arousing. You continued to clean while closing your eyes in embarrassment. 'Why do I feel like it's going to be a long night?' oh boy, were your thoughts right. The nights have been pretty chilly lately, so you took advantage of that in any way you could. However, tonight, it was hot, which caused you to get overheated and highly sweaty while you cleaned the entire hideout.

You groaned as you stood up from cleaning your clothes stuck to your body, causing you to frown in disgust as you carefully pulled the fabric, your body tensing at the feeling of the sweat dripping down your entire body. You let out a small sigh as you wipe your forehead, staring at the night sky from one of the windows. 'Tonight is so hot…' Karaku couldn't agree more as he had gone silent halfway through the night, his eyes staring daggers at your form, his body heating up as he watched your clothes stick to you, causing your curves to show and boy, was the sight enchanting while he crossed his legs feeling himself getting turned on each time you bent over. You let out another sigh as you leaned against the doorframe, your face flushed from the heat, causing Karaku to bite his lip.

"Hey, Y/n, come here." He called, getting your attention as you slowly approached him. Karaku motioned for you to sit on the floor before him, causing you to tilt your head in confusion. "Just sit or I'll make you sit on my lap." He taunted, watching as you quickly sat on your knees, not wanting to think of the embarrassing position. Karaku sits up a bit, legs still crossed, as he brings out his fan, carefully waving it towards you, creating a nice breeze. You melt at the feeling of your entire body relaxing as the cool air hits your flushed skin. Karaku smiles at this, loving your noises as he rests his chin in his other hand. "That feel good babygirl?" He asked teasingly. You blushed at the sudden pet name, quickly looking away as you became shy. "Haha, don't get shy on me, sweetie! Let me see your cute face~" He continued teasing, getting increasingly excited with your expressions and body movements. "Hm?" He hummed, noticing a piece of hair sticking to your face from the sweat. He smiles while going to remove the hairs from your delicate skin. You blush at the sudden gesture, a tiny smile forming as you look at him, cheeks still flushed.

"You must be really sweaty sweetie." He comments while still fanning you. "Y-yes, I wasn't expecting it to be this hot out tonight." You admitted while fidgeting with your fingers, refusing to make eye contact with the pleasure clone. Karaku frowned at this while tilting his head. "I'm being so nice to you, sweetie, and you don't even thank me. How rude." He pretends to pout while stopping his fan. You panic, not wanting to be rude or offend the demon in front of you, as you quickly try to think of a way to thank him. A blush crosses your cheeks as you muster up all your courage, kissing his cheek while looking at him shyly as you sit back on your knees.

"T-thank you for fanning me…and moving the strand of hair…" You whispered, trailing off from embarrassment. Karaku stared at you for a moment in shock before a sadistic grin crossed his face as he quickly went and pinned you to the floor, straddling you as he trapped you in a deep, passionate kiss. You squealed in surprise, your body squirming underneath him. Karaku groans as he feels the friction of your movements against his groin. He pulls away from the kiss, eyes filled with lust as he takes in your flushed, innocent appearance, watching as a tiny glint of lust flashes through your pure eyes. "My services aren't free Y/n…He hums, pushing another piece of hair behind your ear as he cups your cheek, leaning his face closer to yours.

"I'll have you so pretty dripping in sweat baby girl."

Urogi

You ran as fast as you could through the woods, your clothes catching on all sorts of branches, causing them to tear as you stumbled and jumped through the area. The moon was your only light source as you barely dodged trees and roots. Your breathing was heavy as you continued to maneuver your way around. Suddenly, you see a giant shadow coming from above, causing you to look back at the sky. You saw Urogi with a giant smile as he extended his talons, swooping down at you. You squealed, barely avoiding the demon as you tried to lose him again. “Y/n~! You can't escape from me!" You heard the manifestation of joy shout, his laugh echoing around you.

"Watch me, Urogi!" You yelled, a small laugh escaping your lips. This was a frequent game you and your boyfriend liked to play. A few months back, Urogi had been complaining about being bored, and how none of the other clones ever wanted to play with him, so you recommended the idea of tag. Since then, Urogi has ensured you both play tag at least once or twice a month. Of course, you never won the game, but it was Urogi's favorite, so who were you to stop him from having so much fun? You dash behind a tree, trying to catch your breath as you carefully look around. With a deep sigh, you relax, closing your eyes as you feel your chest start to burn from all the running. 'Damn demons and their damn stamina.' You mentally cursed.

You open your eyes when you hear something creaking from above. Your heart sinks as you slowly look up to see your boyfriend perched on a branch above you with a wicked grin. "You're mine!" He yelled quickly, tackling you to the ground. You squeal as the two of you go, tumbling slightly from the sudden impact. Urogi, of course, watched where he placed his talons so he wouldn't harm you. When you two came to a stop, you both laughed, filling the woods with pure joy. "I caught you, my little songbird~" Urogi sang as he went and showered you with kisses, your happy giggles music to his ears as his stomach did cartwheels from how much joy he felt with you. "Urogi! That's enough!" You cried, trying to push him away with a giant smile.

'Y/n! I'm never bored with you!" He hums while rubbing his cheek against yours. You blush while rolling your eyes at the demon. "Oh, hush." Lightly shoving him away, you go to stand up, dusting all the grass and dirt from your clothes. Urogi jumps up, a giant grin still plastered across his face. "We should start heading back. The sun will be up soon." You noted not wanting your boyfriend to disintegrate in front of you. Ugori nods in response, getting ready to take you up into the air with him before a strand of hair stuck to the corner of your lip catches his eye. Urogi says nothing as he goes and carefully pushes it away, making sure not to cut you with his talons. "Oops! I guess I tackled you too hard!" He laughs, finding your messy state adorable. You smile as you kiss his lips quickly, earning a small bird cry from the demon, who blushed while looking at you in awe. "Thank you for moving my hair, Urogi!" You cheered brightly. Urogi felt his entire body go numb as he went and wrapped you in his wings, making sure your body was as close to his as possible. “My Songbirddddddd!!!! I love you so much! You're perfect for me!" He cried while smothering you with affection.

"I wish I had normal hands so I could be less careful and shower you with more affection." He whined while nuzzling into the crook of your neck, inhaling your scent. You smile as you go and kiss the side of his head while hugging him. "I don't think you need normal hands, Urogi. I love you just the way you are! Talons and all!" You giggle. Urogi grits his teeth as he goes and tackles you to the ground once more, causing you to laugh. "Urogi the sun! We have to get going!" You remind him your tone is soft and warm. He hums while kissing your neck. "I could die so happy right now songbird~" He whined, feeling like his chest would burst any minute.

"Y/n…make me even more happy with your love."

[crystallinestars]

Hello! I'm back for another rant :)

I was still thinking about Mihoyo's tendency to pair characters and play the ambiguity game to make more money and something I've noticed is that people will jump through sooo many hoops to defend the company. ''oh they can't be explicit because of censorship'', ''oh it's China, their culture is different!'' or even ''stupid entitled westerners always complaining about things they don't even try to understand smh 🙄''

Now, while I can agree that censorship and culture should be taken into account when talking about these games, I also feel like it's a bit disingenuous and lowkey patronising to chalk it all up to ''the Chinese are just all like that lol''

Like, why are we so vehemently defending a company that makes millions (if not billions) through ship teasing, as you've put before? Censorship does not change the fact that the development that characters get in these games (especially Genshin) goes out the window every other event or as soon as the main story is finished. And whenever I hear someone talk about censorship, I always think about Mo Dao Zu Shi (granted, the situation was different in its case so we should take it with a grain of salt) where its donghua and drama adaptations where indeed censored (but they were much more explicit than whatever's going on in Hoyoverse), yet the novel (the source material) had many MANY chapters with its two male leads going at it

I admit that I've been feeling a bit salty recently (because I feel like people only care about coding when it comes to the 'great' questions of ''OK but do these two men FUCK? How many times a day do they go at it and who's the woman in this ship??'' Meanwhile nobody ever talks about different dynamics, asexuality and aromanticism are seen as boring, and oh lord does bisexuality seem to be often treated as a trump card to say ''ok but this character is at least 50% gay'') and I also don't know that much about how everything works in China, but idk, I guess my point is that if they wanted to make ships canon, they WOULD (or could) find a way to do so

Anyway, your recent posts and asks also got me thinking and I guess I wanted to show you some support! I've seen your bio and I think it's a really smart move on your part to be clear on what you don't feel comfortable with from the get go. It can definitely be awkward when you have to tell someone that's just really excited to share their thoughts on something they enjoy that you're not interested and you'd rather not talk about this AT ALL. And it really does not help that popular ships tend to attract a lot of unhinged behaviour 😑 It's really refreshing to come across content creators like you, who are very clear in their boundaries and write such thoughtful fics

Once again, I hope you will be left to do your own thing in peace and that you'll keep finding ways and solutions for you to enjoy your favourite works without feeling alienated 💜

(And hopefully one day I will learn how to type short rants 😅)

Haha, short rants don't exist, Anon! It's perfectly okay to type long rants to me, I don't mind. If anything, I relish in them. As someone who rants and complains a lot myself, I welcome it when someone else does it. 😊 (I mean, just look at the length of my reply. I am not any better than you, dear Anon)

Lord, the "Mihoyo can't show explicit gay ships because of the CCP censorship" excuse grates on my nerves, as well. Censorship of homosexuality is definitely a thing in China, and it can sometimes be very horrible, but that's not what's stopping Mihoyo from making certain ships canon. They got way with a lot of lesbian ships in Honkai 3rd (though admittedly they had to tone it down once new laws were implemented, but the fact remains that at some point they were able to be blatant about their ships), and if we're talking actual coding, then Jeht being lesbian-coded is a thing that exists! If it was such a huge deal, I feel like Mihoyo would have either been way more subtle about it or not included these things at all.

It's just my personal opinion, but I'm certain that the reason Mihoyo doesn't make any ship canon is for the sake of making money. They need to sell characters, and the best way to do that is to allow players to enjoy characters the way they want. Assigning a specific sexuality or canon ship will crush the interpretations some players have about a character, and make that character unappealing. It would negatively impact their sales. Keeping things vague and only giving teases of the most popular ships seems to be the ideal marketing tactic for them. It panders to a lot more people this way and keeps most of them happy (however, the fact remains that they ignore a particular demographic of women, though that's a story for another time).

Regarding your reasons why people whip out the "coding" card... YOU ARE SO RIGHT! People only use sexuality coding as a way to "prove" their gay ship is canon and discredit any BG pairing. And they focus on things like one guy being muscular and the other more slender, and then assigning traditionally masculine and feminine traits to them, respectively. I could go on a whole separate rant about this topic, but I'll spare you the wall of text. Feminizing one of the guys in a gay ship is one of my biggest pet peeves, especially when it's OOC for the character.

One thing I noticed is that sexuality often gets used as a convenient tool to suit the needs of certain shippers instead of being used for actual diversity.

I can't tell you the amount of times I saw a sexuality tier list where the aromantic and asexual rows were treated as trash bins where people tossed the characters they didn't care about. There's no actual thought put into the sorting, and that's very unfair to actual aro and ace persons.

As for bisexuality... it's such a polarizing topic in fandoms. It's seen as a good thing when you have a canonical BG pairing, because then you can claim one or both are bi and therefore are also attracted to the same sex (as you said, they're "at last 50% gay" and can be shipped in gay pairings). However, if you have a non-canon BL or GL ship, saying one or both characters are bi is tantamount to treason. How dare you suggest they can be attracted to the opposite sex? That's erasing the gay representation!

Basically, bisexuality, much like the term "coding", gets treated like a tool that's allowed to exist only when it's convenient to a person, instead of as an actual sexuality real people have. I feel like bi, aroace, and pansexual people get shafted hard in fandoms in general.

Anyways, thank you for your support, Anon! I mentioned it in another post, but putting your likes and dislikes in the bio is a common practice in the Eastern part of the world, and I chose to copy that. I think it's a good way to meet people with similar interests while also letting those who have opposite interests avoid you. If the BL Anon had checked my bio first before following me, he could have spared himself some trouble haha. Sadly, it seems that many don't look at bios 😢

Thank you for your nice sentiments! I'm fairly confident that I won't be harassed, especially not in the reader-insert community, but I appreciate the thought! And hopefully I can find a way to combat the alienation... If not, then I'll simply uninstall both HSR and Genshin and find games that actually pander to me 😅

May you stay happy and free of harassment as well, dear Anon! 💚

[jasontoddiefor]

okay so, i realize that's probably not your current fandom, but i'm (once again) in a pjo content binge and i when i checked your pjo tags (Trading Tomorrow fan here) the first post was "no mist au". Which sounds really, really awesome. would you be willing to share some ideas about it or something?

I am always willing to talk about my AUs!!! And I'm glad you like Trading Tomorrow! That fic is still very dear to me!

Right, as the name says, the "no mist AU" is essentially an AU where the mist ceases existing when Percy is still like toddler age and the world is thrown into chaos. We end in some sorta post apocalyptic state where we see the return of the old worship mixed with new ways because demigods are still pretty much the only ones who can kill monsters. But now, well, normal people are praying to the gods as well again.

Some plot points include

Sally taking Percy and running and establishing herself as a person who knows what's up, and more than that, has a kid. She ends running a city alongside the coast as Poseidon's priestess.

The Roman Empire makes a return. Ne Rome adapts quickly to these new circumstances and they do it really well, expanding territory. Thalia and Jason both grow up in New Rome!

On that note, there is kind of a constant power struggle going on between various territories and gods and Kronos is also Awake And Having Some Thoughts

Camp Halfblood is the other big player. I'm not sure which name it'll get but it'll definitely will be renamed. I like New Alexandria (as opposed to New Athen as I've seen in a couple fics) because of Alexander the Great kicking off the Hellenism (just bear with this phrasing I know that's not how history works) and PJO seeming to rely more on late stages of ancient greek history.

But here are plenty of other bigger settlements with their own leader, goals and protections. Though being a demigod guarantees having kind of a higher status in society and people that are/would have been born clear-sighted have a sort of sense for when monsters are near, opposed to normal people.

But yeah, mostly this is post apocalypse meets ancient greek civilization?

And Sally doing everything she can to keep her kid safe and being very badass in turn.

Uuuh take a snippet?

Sally had devoured entire volumes about Greek mythology and the gods’ worship during her pregnancy. She’d never breathed a word of it to Percy, choosing ignorance as protection, but in their changed world, her knowledge needn’t be summoned. It was already there.

“Does anyone have sweets on them or alcohol?” Sally asked.

The people in her group only stared at her in confusion, some even in mistrust.

“It’s important.”

“What are you doing?”

“Prayer,” Sally said. She hadn’t ever been religious, meeting Poseidon hadn’t changed that. But could this really still be religion if she knew it to be truth?

Sally tossed the chocolate bar and the vodka from the flask into the fire.

“To our Lord Poseidon, for protection and safety of this commune.”

Actually take two snippets:

Leo does not like to admit that they might be in trouble, but he’s so nervous he can’t think of a weapon to aid him, never mind focus on making any fire. He glances to the right where Bryce’s body was already cooling, and nearly threw up. The scorpion’s sting had ripped right through his stomach, leaving behind an ugly, revolting wound. Luke is still holding onto his sword, but he can’t even stand properly, never mind fight.

The realization that they are utterly fucked hits like a brick to the face.

He’s survived the end of the world, myth becoming reality and this is what kills him: a regular patrol in an area that should be free of monsters. Leo hadn’t even been scheduled to go on this patrol, only volunteered at the last minute. He’d hoped to impress Luke, maybe see if he could secure permission to move outside the safe perimeters to get more parts to work with.

How stupid, not even their base is truly safe.

With an ugly roar, the scorpion turns around, aiming straight for Leo. Behind it, Luke struggles to get on his feet.

That’s it, Leo’s done for.

He tries to smile so Luke won’t blame himself and maybe do the smart thing and get away. Optimistic last thoughts so that Leo can rest peacefully in the underworld, having died a hero’s death. Phrased like this, dying doesn’t even sound that horrible.

The thought does not make the scorpion look any less terrifying and just when Leo decided to scream, he is cut off.

“Hold this for me.”

Instinctually, Leo holds out his arms and a bag gets dropped into them. The bag is warm and soft and has bright green eyes and oh, gods, that’s a baby.

Leo looks up and there’s a blur of black and blue standing in front of him. His brain is a bit slow on the upkeep, still reeling with the realization that he is holding a baby, and in the seconds it takes him to realize a stranger had come to their aid, the man has already drawn his blade. It’s made from pure celestial bronze, which is enough to make Leo’s jaw go slack. He’s only seen pure celestial bronze or imperial gold only a handful of times. The metals are incredibly scarce and Leo wants to touch that sword right now.

But he can’t.

Because he’s holding a baby and the sword is in its wielder’s hand, who is using it to systematically decimate the scorpion without ever breaking a sweat.

The monster surges up on more time, and the man simply adjust his hold on the sword and drops low, piercing the beast from below.

And just like that, it’s over and the clearing is silent.

[littleravenonahill]

God Has Already Written Your Life | The LukeStrong Foundation

"Like many Christians, in hard times I have found myself considering Jeremiah 29:11, which says “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for you to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. It is reassuring in the midst of trouble to know that God has a plan for us, and that it is a good one. 

We need to stop holding on to our own idea of what the Lord’s plans for our welfare, future, and hope include. Instead, we need to let the whole of God’s Word define his planned goodness to us. Our Lord has been very clear in the New Testament about his intentions regarding those who have come to faith in his Son. And as we continue to place our trust in him, we begin to see that these plans are deeper and more satisfying than even our own ideas about “the good life.”

God is taking care of you, you just have to let go and surrender everything to him! Allow him full control and trust him! Remember God is so much better at orchestrating our lives than we are. Ask the Lord to help you learn how to better trust him. Today I’m sharing  a prayer to trust God with everything. I don’t want to try to hold on to anything that might slow the Lord’s work in my life and the lives of others. Pray with me?

Dear Heavenly Father,

What an incredible and awesome God you are!

When I look at the beauty of your creation,

I’m in awe of your mighty and majestic ways.

When I see the work of your hand,

I’m overwhelmed by your love for me.

Lord, I believe that you saved my soul;

Help me trust that you have made me whole.

Lord, I believe that you hear my prayers;

Help me trust that your answer is best.

Lord, I trust that you created the mountains;

Help me trust that you can move them.

Please forgive me for trying to be in control and allow me to let go and surrender my life to you. Increase my ability to give you everything. Your ways are much higher than mine.

Thank you, Jesus.

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[yahoodarling]

HI! I was drawn to the Xie Lian theme on your blog, and I saw the Nu: Carnival post too. I love Olivine, so could I get some fluff with him please? I can't think of anything particularly specific... Just something fluffy and preferably SFW. Thank you!

Apologies it took a bit longer than id like it to have. I did add some suggestive flirting though nothing out of SWF. Hope you enjoy~ Also mildly inspired by a favorite dessert of mine and one of Oliviens 'scenes'.

Olivien X Gn!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, suggestive flirting

Sat sluggishly on one of Aster's huge couches, your eyes danced between the lounge's decor. Not much had been happening in and around the mansion, everyone had duties they had to attend to leaving you to wallow in your solitude. It was boring. That was until a brilliant angle walked in to bring salvation. Surrounded by light it was truly a holy sight.

“Oh, you are still home? Did you not say you needed to be somewhere today?” Olivien asked as he walked into the lounge. This morning most members that stayed in the mansion mentioned how they would be busy, you not wanting to hurt your pride lied and made up a fake job you needed to do so as to not seem pitiful, in your eyes at least. 

“I'm done with it, haha. Oh, but what are you doing here?” you asked back

“It was just a misunderstanding i helped clear up amongst some members in the church. I thought it would take a lot longer but seems not. I'm glad though, I've been looking for some spare time to try out a recipe I heard about from Dante that originates from the Fire territory. Would you like to join me?” he asked, a smile gracing his face as he asked. What kind of horrible person would you be if you were to deny such a sweet offer. Heaving yourself off the couch you approached in delight. 

“But of course, lead the way.”

Olivien let out a chuckle as he made his way towards the kitchen, you trailed behind.

“So what are we making?” you ask, sitting on a kitchen counter as olivien  washed his hands in the sink.

“It's a milk tart. Like a milky custard with a biscuit base and dusted with cinnamon. The other day i heard Dante wanting it when he came to visit and i asked for the recipe. Its sweet and chilled from what i hear. I think it would be a nice treat for the others to try when they get back.”

“Haha, sounds like a plan. Where do we begin?” you ask. Olivien pulled a single paper from his pocket, from what you saw the writing was rushed but it still held the elegant style Olivien wrote in.

“I had to quickly write it down since Dante couldn't chat long at the time. Lets hope i didn't leave anything out.” His face held a cute pout as he read over his writing, you could tell he was trying to get a better understanding of the dessert.

“Okay!” He suddenly brightened up from his thoughts, “So I'll get the utensils, mind fetching the ingredients I list off?” “Sure” you push yourself off the counter to be Oliviens fetch dog.

“First off, we need milk” he said as he turned away getting a bowl. A sly smirk crossed yur face as you waited behind him, not moving, this alerted him as he turned back to look at you puzzled. “Is everything okay?”

“Yip, just fetching the milk” you smiled and held out both your arms, your hands making grabby motions towards his chest. Olivien realized  your implications and went dead in the face, looking at you unimpressed.

“Get the milk please.” he demanded.

“Yes sir” and you took a step towards him, he grabbed your shoulders and brought you in a tight hug against the lump chest you were just focused on, in the warm embrace Olivien lowered his head so his hushed voice met directly with your ears.

“I love you very much my dear but Lord Klein forgive me for what I am about to do if you keep this up.” The suggestive threat sent a shiver down your core, you were his fetch dog for now not his horn dog.

“All clear?” he asked as he let you go smiling, you smiled back though yours was more shaken than his. “Crystal clear.”

Other than that, getting to work with Olivien was pleasant. You each spoke about what plans you had for the rest of the week and what you'd want to do when the others got back. The tart was rather simple and quick to prepare and was left to set and cool, and so clean up commenced.

You stood washing the dishes while Olivien packed away the remaining ingredients. It was a content time, a quiet ting of bowls and shuffles of paper and feet creating a soft melody of your duet with Olivien. In your time embracing the sound Oliviens footsteps got closer and closer till he held you in his arms against him.

“Hmm?” you acknowledge him. Olivien went quiet for a moment before pressing his chin to the top of your head.

“I've really enjoyed this time with you.” he spoke hushed, like he was trying not to shatter the flow of music you two created. “I hope the tart tastes good, I'm looking forward to it.” as he spoke his hold tightened till you were pressed contemptly, warm, safe, happy… This was a good life you had even if it did have its struggles, moments like these made the stress and anxieties melt away. 

After cleaning up and needing to wait for the milk tart to set you and Olivien retreated to the lounge to enjoy the rest of the afternoon together. You found yourself leaning against him as his hand tossed with your hair. With such a relaxed environment you couldn't help but fall into a tranquil slumber.

An increase in activity sturred you to wake up, the noises coming from outside the room. You eased yourself up from the couch but the sudden lack of warmth caused you to look back to where you once were laid. Olivien slept below you, his body warmth being the element you were lacking. His face set in a graceful rest, eyes hidden behind thick eyelashes. To see him in such an open state, more untroubled than you had ever seen him before. Like this you could tell he was not plagued with concerns or worry regarding work or daily troubles, like this he was truly reposeful. No other could fulfill the place olivien had in your heart and getting to share moments such as today just solidified that sentiment. 

The door to the house opened suddenly, taking your focus. Through the door came Aster and Morvay, Aster's voice ringing through as he was reprimanded? Teased? Morvay, really you couldn't tell. 

“Hello hello~” he sang to you but it wasn't you that responded back.

“Ah, welcome back,” Olivine's sleepy voice answered. Another presence joined in the room, that being Yakumo though he entered not via the front door like Aster and Morvay but from another room in the house, he must have returned while you and Olivien were asleep. “Greetings everyone.” he smiled. Olivien sat up and allowed himself to wake up. After looking around the room a little to better gather himself he turned to Aster, ��Do you know where Dante is?”

“He left back to his kingdom. Huge responsibilities and such.” You could tell there was a sign of disappointment in Oliviens eyes as his face only momentarily fell into a sullen frown before returning to its normal graceful smile. The plan to make the milk tart had come from Dante after all.

“Why? There something you need from him?” Aster asked as he and Morvay got comfortable on another couch.

“I just made a dessert from the fire region and wanted his opinion on it. No big problem though.”

“Oh,” Yakumo piped in,” you mean that dessert in the cooler? When I saw him earlier he helped himself to a slice. He didn't say much but he seemed happy. I guess he simply did not want to wake you up before he left.”

Olivien smiled like he was in relief, “I'm glad then. Anyway, would anyone like a slice? I have yet to try it but if Dante is pleased with it it should be enjoyable.” A choir of agreement rang as everyone moved to the kitchen. Away from the others Olivien stopped and looked to you, eyes gleaming like jewels.

“I hope we get an opportunity to do this again.”

You nodded back and smiled like an idiot.

“Of course.”

[theladyofdeath]

The Viscount Who Loved Me {Nineteen}

TVWLM Masterlist

An A Court of Thorns and Roses fanfiction, inspired by the first 2 seasons of Bridgerton.

Written alongside @snelbz

Ships: Nesta x Cassian x Elain - Feyre x Rhysand - Elain x Azriel x Gwyn

Summary: (see TVWLM masterlist!)

A/N: Thank you for reading! Two chapters left! I'm so sorry I didn't post this yesterday, when promised. I got super distracted and lost sight of pretty much everything. lol. We would love to know what you think!

Tag list is at the end. If you’d like to be added, please comment below or submit an ask. :)

Dear Readers,

It seems the Diamond may be the saving grace of her family's dynasty after all. With her engagement to the Viscount, at least one Archeron sister isn't a total failure. Who knew the youngest would be the one to save her family's reputation?

May the Mother bless the other two poor souls.

The Suriel

The first thing Cassian noticed when he awoke was that the blankets he’d buried his face in smelled of Nesta. Memories of the night before flooded his senses and he couldn’t believe how perfect she’d been in every way. He couldn’t believe she’d admitted that she loved him.

But as he reached his arm out, the spot on the blanket next to him long gone cold and damp from the morning mist, he realized she’d never responded after he’d begged her to stay.

Sitting up, another blanket pooled around Cassian’s waist as he searched for Nesta.

Not a trace, nothing. It was as if he’d dreamed the entire encounter, but he could still smell her on him.

That, and he was naked in his back woods, something that was more out of the ordinary than it was in his teenage days.

Half an hour later, wearing fresh clothes with his hair tied back in a small bun, Cassian was riding across town, early enough that he was one of few out. If Nesta was indeed leaving town, he had precious little time to waste. Without bothering to tie his horse properly, Cassian knotted the reins to the light post out front and was bounding up the front steps of the Archeron manor home before he could think better of it.

He slammed his fist into the door, banging so loudly he wouldn’t be surprised if he woke the entire house.

No one answered, but the doorman was likely still asleep.

He beat his fist against the door again, not letting up this time until the door was ripped open from the inside.

Feyre’s tired eyes widened as she saw it was him on their doorstep. “Cassian, what are you— I mean, Lord Nazari.” She curtsied, as if calling him by his first name and forgetting his formal title was the worst thing either of them had done in the last twelve hours. “What are you doing here? Dawn has just broken, it’s not even—”

“I need to speak to Nesta,” he interrupted and as Feyre stepped back, he wondered how crazed he looked. “Please, it’s imperative.”

Her gaze softened, as if she remembered what she saw in the library, as if she too had figured out it was impossible for the two of them to stay apart, but she shook her head. “It’s very early, my lord, I’m sure Nesta wouldn’t—”

“Please, Feyre.” Taking a deep breath, he tried to calm himself. “I’ll stay out here; just…please go get her.”

Sighing, Feyre nodded. “Stay here. I’ll be right back.”

The door closed and he waited. Five minutes passed and then ten, and he began to think that Feyre had ignored him, that she had simply gone back up to bed; but, just as he was giving up hope, the door opened again.

It wasn’t Nesta.

Feyre peeked out of the door, a frown on her face. “She’s not here. Sometimes she goes riding—”

Cassian was already moving towards his horse. “Thank you!”

Thunder rolled across the sky as he mounted his horse and rode towards the very place that Cassian had first seen Nesta. He was half a mile away when the rain began to come down, and nearly there when the drizzle turned into a downpour.

It was not safe riding conditions.

Cassian had to find Nesta.

He entered the park and rode the path until he came to a clearing. In the distance, near the line of trees, he spotted her.

“Nesta!” He called, but either she did not hear or did not care to. 

Picking up his pace, he rode towards her, even though she continued to put distance between them. He rode faster, calling her name all the while.

She didn’t even look back. 

Completely drenched, Cassian continued to ride, continued to call her name, continued to chase her, confused as to why she was riding in this sort of weather to begin with. Surely she had to look at the sky that morning and know that rain was coming. There was a chill in the air.

“Nesta!” He screamed her name, high above the call of the rain, the thunder.

She pulled her mare to a stop and looked over her shoulder. Her posture was all wrong. It was not like that first day he had come across her. Then, she had been confident. Taunting. Mischievous. 

Now, she was upset. Her eyes were wide, he could see them from where he strode towards her. The rain hid the tears on her face but he knew they were there. 

As he approached, she urged her horse forwards but it soon reeled back, frightened from the storm or something in the grass. As it reared, Nesta fell backwards.

Cassian swore, snapping the reins until his horse was running at a full pace to where she’d fallen. As he approached, her horse took off, but he couldn’t find it in himself to care, not as he discovered Nesta in a crumpled heap on the ground. He had dismounted his horse before the beast had come to a complete stop, falling to his beside her.

She wasn’t moving, her body so still, and on her forehead, that was—

Cassian was scooping her into his arms before he could consider otherwise. He didn’t remember and honestly wasn’t sure how he’d gotten them up onto his horse, but he was flying through the park a moment later. He rode recklessly, endangering not only his life, but Nesta’s, as well.

But he knew an injury to the head could easily be fatal and there was already far more blood than he was comfortable gambling her life on.

Clutching her to his chest, Cassian told her about everything they were going to experience together once they got married. Because they were going to get married.

They were going to get married just as quickly as the Queen would allow and then he would leave with her. He would travel the world with her, if that’s what she wanted to do. He would stay in Velaris if she wanted or move to a remote cabin by a lake.

He would give her as many children as she wanted whether that was an entire brood or just a pup to dote on. They would spend holidays with his family, though, that was something he wouldn’t concede on. It was a tradition, he told her, and one he wasn’t keen on giving up.

By the time he jerked his horse to a stop in front of the Archeron manor, her breathing was terrifyingly slow. He dismounted, careful not to jostle her now that the harrowing ride over was complete.

Feyre threw the door open, running out into the rain. “Nesta!”

A man in a familiar jacket waited in the doorway.

“You called for a doctor?” Cassian asked, relieved they wouldn’t have to wait for someone to get one.

She nodded as she ushered them in. “I had a bad feeling after you left. I’m glad I trusted my instincts.”

Cassian froze as he took in Elain, still in her dressing gown, eyes wide and terrified at the sight of her sister in his arms, and Isaac behind her, his hand on her shoulder. It was the first time he’d seen his former betrothed since she’d left him at the altar.

“What happened, my lord?”

The doctor snapped Cassian out of his stupor. His voice was rough. “She fell from her horse. Hit her head. There’s…blood.”

The doctor nodded grimly and asked Cassian to carry her upstairs. He did not have to be asked twice. He swept past everyone in the doorway, although they quickly followed, and went with the doctor up the stairs and into what looked to be Nesta’s room. The covers were drawn and he laid her in bed.

As soon as his hands left her, they shook. 

She looked so helpless, so broken, and there was nothing he could do. He was swept to the back of the room as the doctor took over, examining her where she laid. Her sisters hovered over the bed. Her father stood at the foot.

Cassian snuck out.

He couldn’t bear to see her like that.

He was halfway down the corridor when he heard, “My lord!”

He stopped, willing the tears that had pooled in his eyes not to fall as he turned and met Elain’s worried, frantic expression. She inclined her head. “Thank you. Thank you for being there. For bringing her home.”

Cassian did not dare speak. He nodded, and she bowed her head again before disappearing back into the room.

Cassian fled.

He walked back out into the rain and hopped on his horse. He rode home and he did not stop until he reached the stables. He dismounted, and up against the side of the beast, he wept. Cassian’s face fell into the horse’s mane as he cried, and his horse must have known just what he was feeling because he stayed perfectly still, letting it happen.

<.>

Time moved slowly that week. 

Feyre and Elain sat by Nesta's side nearly every minute of every day. She did not wake, hardly stirred. 

With each day that passed, Feyre was haunted by the terror in Cassian’s eyes when he’d brought her home. She saw his hands trembling as he backed away from the bed. He was terrified. He was in love with her. 

She was surprised he had not come by again to visit. 

Elain had said nothing about it, but Feyre knew she was feeling guilty. Her fight - both of their fights - with Nesta had now seemed irrelevant.

None of that mattered, not anymore.

All that mattered was that she awoke.

Feyre had just sat down to have lunch in the sitting room when she distantly heard the doorbell ring. Sighing, she assumed it was one of the many suitors who’d visited the house, now that Elain was an eligible, young lady again.

And Feyre was… Feyre was engaged.

She wouldn’t allow herself to think about her fiancé or the fact that she even had one. Shaking her head, Feyre stood and carried her plate towards the door. She’d take it to the kitchens before heading up to let Elain know she had a visitor. Elain would tell her to enjoy her meal, that she would sit with Nesta while she got a much needed break, but who knew if the suitor at the door could be Elain’s true love? 

Feyre was just about to enter the hall when the doorman appeared, causing her to jump.

The man blushed, bowing. “Apologies, my lady, but you have a visitor.”

Her heart was racing and it wasn’t from the sudden appearance of the doorman, not as she looked over his shoulder and beheld who stood behind.

Rhysand stood there, a bouquet of navy roses in his hand. She couldn’t identify the look in his eyes, but she swore he seemed almost sheepish. Nervous. Anxious.

“Thank you, Eddie,” she said, and smiled at the doorman as he bowed and disappeared. 

Rhysand remained outside of the doors, waiting for her to invite him in. When she gestured to the room around her, he chuckled and crossed the threshold, holding out the flower arrangement.

“It is a shame roses do not grow in nature in such a color,” he said, in way of greeting. “I always thought that blue suited them.”

Feyre slowly set down her barely touched plate on an end table. “They are quite beautiful.”

“For you,” he said, and she strode forward until she was close enough to take them.

She leaned in and smelled them before saying, “Thank you. I’ll call for a vase right away.”

“Feyre.”

Her eyes snapped back up to his. They were wild, reckless, as if a war was raging inside of his mind. She knew this talk would come. She had not seen him since the ball.

“How is Nesta?” He asked, and of course he knew what had happened. Cassian had surely told him.

“Not yet awake,” Feyre replied. “But Doc says she’s steady.”

“That’s good news,” he said, and she swallowed and looked away. He stepped forward and lifted her chin so that she met his gaze. “She will be okay, Feyre.”

“Yes,” she breathed, although she wasn’t sure she believed it. Each day that Nesta did not wake, her hope dimmed. “Did you truly come here to ask of Nesta?”

“Yes,” he said, then hesitated, “and no.” Feyre blinked, waiting for him to continue.

It was the first time Rhysand had ever looked…unsure of himself.

“Considering our recent…engagement…I thought we should talk,” he explained, looking around the room as if he would see someone else there, but they were completely alone. 

Feyre sighed. “Rhys, if we are to fight, I must admit that I am too emotionally drained at the moment. I must ask you to come back another time.”

“The reason it took me five days to visit is because I’ve been warring with myself,” he said, surging forward, as if she never spoke.  He began to pace, yet every pass brought him closer to her. “Feyre, I went from loathing your existence for being a temptation to loving you because you let me give in. For years, I’ve kept far away from the society of Velaris, because I knew there was no future for me in it. I avoided the balls and the luncheons and the promenades, because I did not care about any of it. The promise I made to my dying father was all I cared about.” 

At the mention of that damn promise, Feyre’s jaw locked, but she made no move to leave, so Rhysand stepped closer. “Now I know that that vow is the second most important one I will ever say.”

Feyre wasn’t sure if she was breathing when she whispered, “What?”

He took her face in his hands, leaning down until his forehead rested against hers. “My father made my life a living hell while he was alive, I’ll be damned if I let him do the same in death.”

Feyre stilled. 

Rhysand’s violet eyes sparkled as he said, “I know I’m doing this in a rather unconventional order, since the Queen herself made the announcement.”

Now, Feyre couldn’t tell if her heart was actually beating.

As he dropped to one knee, she was certain it wasn’t.

“Feyre Archeron, I’m asking you to marry me. Not because it’s what the ton expects of us or because of what your sister saw.” He took her hand, pulling a small velvet bag from inside his breast pocket. “I want to marry you because I love you. I want to marry you because you’re the most amazing woman I’ve ever met and I want to make every memory possible with you. I want to dance with you at ridiculous parties and host family dinners that are the envy of my brothers and your sisters. I want to…” He closed his eyes, opening them a second later, and should see them shimmering in the early afternoon sun. “I want to have a family with you. I want it all, Feyre. I want to marry you, not because your sister caught me kissing you. But because I want to kiss you every day for the rest of my life.”

There were tears streaming down Feyre’s face, but Rhys waited in patient silence for her to say something. When she finally spoke, he hadn’t been expecting her to sniffle and say, “What my sister didn’t know is that you’d been doing far more than kissing me.”

He laughed, her sarcasm waking something up in him. “Trust me, Feyre darling, I want to do that every day for the rest of my life, too.”

She melted as she joined him on the floor, meeting him on his knees. She took his hands in hers and said, “Of course I will marry you.”

Relief shone in his eyes as if he had no idea how this conversation would go. To think that he thought she may have said no was ludicrous. 

Rhysand opened the velvet bag in his hand and pulled out a thin, gold band that had a large sapphire surrounded by a cluster of diamonds. 

“I had this made quickly,” he explained, quietly, nervously. “If you’d like something different—“

“It’s perfect,” she breathed, and tears fell freely down her warm cheeks, this time of joy. “Rhys, it’s beautiful.”

He smiled, eyes soft as he took her hand in his and slid the ring onto her finger. “Feyre, I am so ridiculously in love with you.”

Her hands slid around his shoulders and she kissed him, softly. “As am I, with you.”

He let out a shuddering breath before kissing her again, and for the first time in a long time, everything felt right.

Feyre found peace, found safety, found utter joy as she accepted her future. She would marry the love of her life, would grow old with him and start a family and be the viscountess. 

She would be happy.

With him at her side.

<.>

Elain sat by Nesta’s bedside watching her chest slowly rise and fall. Those breaths remained even but she feared that there would come a moment that her chest stilled, and the terror of the thought caused her to watch intently. 

The doorbell had sounded and she assumed it would be another suitor. She’d had many callers since her broken engagement with Lord Cassian, but no one ever came to fetch her so she figured she was fine to stay where she was.

Watching Nesta.

All she could think about were the hateful words she’d spat at Nesta. Yes, there had been a tentative truce between them after breakfast before the ball, but Elain had still been secretly grateful Nesta would be leaving soon.

Now, she felt guilty for her inner thoughts, would give anything to be able to beg her sister not to go and to repair their relationship. She knew Feyre felt equally ashamed of her final conversation with Nesta.

Leaning forward, Elain rested her forehead against the edge of the bed. There had been a time Nesta had held almost the same vigil by her own bedside, though she hadn’t fallen off of a horse. She’d fallen ill after swimming in a pond at their country home they’d thought was safe, but days later, Elain was sick and clammy and fading in and out of consciousness at the drop of a hat. The doctor had given her something to put her to sleep and keep her that way for days. It was only after she’d awoken, feeling better than she had in weeks, that she’d found out that Nesta had barely left her during the four days she’d been out.

As she sat up, she slipped her hand around Nesta’s still one. It was still warm, one of the few things that gave Elain hope. She hadn’t gone cold. Elain would do anything she could to keep her that way.

A soft knock on the door had Elain jerking her hand back and turning in her seat. “Yes?”

The door opened just a touch and Feyre peeked her head in. “How is she?”

Looking back at their sister, she shook her head. “The same.”

Crossing the room, Feyre brushed Nesta’s hair back over her ear. “No change is better than a change for the worse, right?” Elain nodded, but Feyre said, “You have a visitor in the sitting room. I’ll sit with her for a little while.”

She nearly groaned. “It’s not Lord Brumley, is it? I don’t think I can take much more of his poetry reading.”

Feyre shook her head and laughed softly. “Go take a moment to freshen up and then go see for yourself. I asked Cook to send some tea and sandwiches up since I wasn’t sure if you’d eaten yet.”

As if it had been waiting for an opportunity to make itself known, Elain’s stomach grumbled in a decidedly unladylike fashion.

With a nod, she said, “Let me know if there are any changes.”

“I will,” Feyre promised, then Elain helped herself to her feet and walked out of the room as Feyre settled into her chair.

She went to her room and brushed through her hair before deeming her day dress appropriate and meandering towards the sitting room.

She’d seen too many men over the past two weeks.

She did not know how many more she could handle.

She nearly wished that one would just ask for her hand so that she could get it all over with. Not the romance she had once dreamed of, but enough for her at this point.

When she walked into the sitting room, she stilled as she crossed the threshold. It was not Lord Brumley, thank the Mother, but someone that made her heart a little bit lighter.

Azriel looked up at her and smiled warmly over the rim of his hot tea. He stood and bowed his head. “Lady Elain.”

“Azriel,” she breathed, walking to where he stood in front of the settee. “Whatever are you doing here? Not that I am not grateful to see you, of course.”

She gestured to the seating that surrounded them and they both sat, across from one another.

“I wanted to check in,” he said, simply. “To see if there is anything I can do.”

These men.

Rhysand had been by twice, though the first time was less for Nesta and more to put the ring Feyre now wore on her finger. She waited for the jealousy that her sister had gotten what she wanted to bubble up in her and the shame that she knew would follow.

Neither did.

She’d been quietly watching the two of them fall in love all season, despite the fact that they thought they were being sneaky.

Elain smiled softly, directing her attention back to azriel, and shook her head. “She’s stable, thank you. Just taking everything day by day.”

Her eyes went back to the doors, as if she could see all the way up the stairs to Nesta’s rooms, but her gaze caught on a package leaning against the couch Azriel sat on.

He nodded, setting his teacup down. “Rhysand said he thought you were doing okay, but I wanted to see for myself. See if there was anything you needed.”

“No, not that I can think of, but I am thankful for a visitor who isn’t trying to woo me with his stories of travel or bad poetry.” His back went rigid and Elain asked, “You aren’t here to read me bad poetry, are you?”

Her smile didn’t reach her eyes and Azriel hated how forced it was. The past few weeks had been extremely trying for Elain, and he could see how exhausted she was. Clearing his throat, he pulled the paper-wrapped parcel from the side of the couch and carried it over to her. “Not quite, though I do have a gift for you.”

Her eyebrows nearly shot into her hairline as she reached for it. “A gift?”

The genuine surprise on her face made Azriel chuckle as he sat on the rolled arm of the sette and nodded. “It’s something I’ve been working on at the Academy. I was going to turn it in as one of my final projects, but I’d rather you have it.”

She blinked. “Azriel, thank you. That’s incredibly kind.”

He laughed, quietly. “May not want to thank me until you’ve opened it. I truly hope I did my subject justice.”

Elain hesitated, but slowly tore the paper and stripped down the framed canvas. As it became unveiled, she gasped.

For a moment, she said not a word but her vision blurred as she beheld the painting. 

Of her. 

He had taken that portrait that he’d sketched at the start of the season and brought it to life. The likeness was uncanny. It was as if she was looking in a mirror of herself on that day, when she was overjoyed to be his subject. 

“Azriel,” she breathed, and he did not move. “This is…this is beautiful. It’s exquisite. Thank you. Truly.”

He swallowed as a tear fell down her cheek. She shook her head, eyes leaving the painting for the first time since she’d laid eyes on it. Azriel watched her wistfully.

“You are most welcome,” he whispered. 

Elain looked at him then, as he looked at her. He had been her one constant this season, there from the very beginning, with his charcoal-dusted fingers and shy smiles. He had been a good friend, a confidant of sorts, when she felt she couldn’t speak to her sisters. Things had become strained with him since her engagement to Cassian, and they were just starting to feel back to normal again.

All at once, her words from the last time they spoke came back to her. 

Maybe I should marry you instead.

It had been a joke at the time, because she had been determined to marry for love again, but…

Elain tipped her head to the side, a motion that Azriel caught, his eyes following her every move.

No, she did not love Azriel, though she did care for him. But…she could see herself loving him.

Standing, she took a step towards him. “Azriel, I—”

The remaining door to the sitting room that was closed was thrown open as Feyre burst into the room.

“She’s awake.”

____________________________________________________________

@mariamuses @photofeesh @the-regal-warrior @gracie-rosee @irisofink @strawberries-and-reveries @zeppelin-and-unicorns @live-the-fangirl-life @cassianscool @clacings @argentumstella @cuppamelia @chillspritecranberry @emilyrose111294 @awesomelena555 @gengen64 @dontbenddontbreak @blueunoias @liliput2203 @sleeping-and-books @kindofawalkingpoem @thebitchydonutcollector @shedoessoshedoes @cretaceous-therapod @emily-gsh @annie-laur @impossiblehistoryofquotes @midnightrose-reader @beanl1 @shniya-hiiragi @towhateverend87 @deezrmuhsheeple @pintas3107 @sarcasm-is-the-best-insult @santkazoya @lady-winter-sunrise @themoonthestarsthesuriel @story-scribbler @swankii-art-teacher @lordof-bloodshed @sv0430 @dreammoutlouddd @katlady13 @lokisllama @mrspettyferr @missannieshay @live-the-fangirl-life @headinclouds48 @secretlycressdarnel @awesomethreedragons @lokisllama @littlehoneyybee @vicioux @cest-la-vieve @lokisllama  @thewinterroza @aching-for-distance

[mirkwoodshewolf]

TCATC Chap. 1: I’m looking for someone to share in an adventure

*Author’s note*

Okay first chapter here we go!!! Here is where Gandalf and our adventurous (well not quite yet) young Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins. Here we get a bit more background on Hela. So I hope you all enjoy the first chapter and I’ll see if I want to post up chapter 2 where we meet the Company of Thorin Oakenshield.

Next chapter here

Taglist:

@queensdivas

@plethora-of-things

@waddles03

@psychosupernatural

@ixchel-9275

@jd-johndeacon-or-jackdaniels

@peter-parkers-cullen-nerd

@queen-paladin​

_________________________________________________________

Millenia’s have passed since that day and I tried to make due wherever I could.  As the Last of the Celestials it is now my sole job to ensure the safety of Middle Earth, just like our Celestial Prime Ajak once did before me.  In that time I’ve also found more of my sibling’s magic but I was still missing three.

My little sister Sprite’s magic, my eldest sister Thena’s magic, and my big brother Ikaris’ magic.  They alone proved to be the most elusive of any of the gems I’ve forged, I had even given up all hope of finding them for the past 400 years.

However not all was lost, in the times of finding my family’s celestial magic I’ve come to make some good friends along the way.  Lord Elrond, High elf of Rivendell.  He has become a great guidance for me, especially after I became the last of my kind.  He always offered me a place to stay in his home East of the Sea and I gratefully took his offer every time I needed a place to gather my thoughts or need special guidance.

Lady Galadriel, the Lady of Light.  She and Ajak were great friends with one another and she provided for me that motherly guidance that I needed and was also there to provide good advice, a caring heart and a Mother’s love if I ever needed it.

Even though it’s hard to say goodbye for their lives are very brief compared to the likes of Elves and even me, I’ve come to known some good people in the world of Men.  The Rangers in the North, every king of Rohan, even the Lord of Dale Girion. It broke my heart when I learned of his passing from the dragon Smaug, as well as the destruction of Dale.  I would’ve helped if I could but there was trouble in the South that needed my attention, otherwise a dragon would be the least of anyone’s trouble.

And of course there was also……the sound of an old Man’s singing sounded off near where I was.  I got up from my tree and quickly raced on and soon found the source of the singing. Kneeling down by a creak to refill his waterskin was an old man dressed in grey robes.  Pointy hat, long grey hair and beard, and a wizard’s staff at his side.

Gandalf the Grey.  The Grey Pilgrim, Mithrandir, and various of other names he is known by, but to me, he is called friend.  My dearest friend to be exact.  Gandalf and I have had many adventures together, and I’ve gotten him out of several bad spots and in return he’s helped me with finding some of my siblings’ celestial magic.  For a wizard is always aware of anything and everything magical.

I smirked and quietly snuck up on him.  The old goat had no idea what awaited him, looking down at the ground beneath him, I used Cersei’s powers to turn the ground beneath him to the rest of the creak which made him fall into the water.  He stuttered and cleared his throat before turning towards me.  A slow but wide smile began to spread across my face as I let out a cheerful laugh.

Gandalf’s anger immediately subsided as he too laughed and got out of the water, shaking his robes dry.  I ran up to him and embraced him instantly as I proclaimed.

“My heart sings to see you again Gandalf.”

“As does mine to see you too Hela.” He said as he embraced me back almost immediately as I did him.  We separated from each other and I asked him.

“What brings you all the way to the borders of Bree?”

“I’m heading West, wondering if anyone would be interested in sharing an adventure?” I quirked my brow at him and asked.

“What are you up to wizard?”

“Up to? Now my dear what makes you think I would be up to something?”

“Must I answer that question?” he cleared his throat as he picked up his staff, not once giving me an answer.  “Fine. Keep your secrets.” The little sparkle of mischief in his blue eyes shined right at me as he said. “But why head further West? You know all that is there is the Shire, and you know as well as I do that Hobbits have no need nor interest in adventures.”

“Not entirely true. Do you recall the stories I told you of a young Bilbo Baggins?” vaguely I did.  Gandalf always did tell me of how in the Shire, the Hobbits lived a quiet and peaceful life.  Far away from the horrors that lie out in the rest of the world, where every day was nothing but peaceful gardening, market shopping and every night drinking at the Green Dragon.

He also told me of how the Hobbits, especially the young children have always loved his fireworks whenever he goes there for his special visits. And it was there he learned of a young adventurous hobbit by the name of Bilbo Baggins.  A young hobbit who longed to see beyond the borders of the Shire, a hobbit who’d go out late in search of Elves, capturing fireflies, and come home treading mud on his feet.

“You know as well as I do Gandalf that time changes people. You really think Bilbo would be interested in whatever it is your planning?”

“You underestimate hobbits my dear Celestial. Just as much as you’ve doubted yourself.” I gawked at him.

“I’ve never—” he eyed me in daring me to finish my sentence.

Alright, to be honest out of all my Celestial brothers and sisters, I’m—not really the best Celestial.  Now don’t get me wrong I’ve done my share of fighting because all Celestials have enhanced strength and stamina, it’s….just my own unique powers that I don’t really find powerful compared to the rest of the Celestials.

“What good is my power in battle?”

“It is not in battle that you find your talents at. But it’s through the World that your gift is special. That’s why there hasn’t been a Celestial like you since you were created.”

“Gandalf, there hasn’t been a Celestial in 2942 years. And I wish I could find a way to bring them back.”

“You will find a way my dear. I know you have missed your kin as much as others have.” Gandalf placed a comforting hand to my shoulder. I placed my hand on top of his and he told me to come along with him.

“Do you think Bilbo would mind us suddenly arriving at his doorstep like this?” I asked him as we continued to walk onward towards the Shire.

“Even so, Hobbits are known for their proper manners. And I know you’ve always wanted to see what the Halflings daily lives are like. This could be an education even for you.” That Gandalf always speaking in tongues and riddles.  But he was right about one thing, I always did want to see how the little people of the Shire live.

Soon enough we arrived in the Shire and now seeing it with my very own eyes, it was the most peaceful and quaint place I had ever seen. Rolling hills as far as the eye could see, houses built into them like holes in the ground, and Hobbits. Hundreds, maybe even thousands of them going about their daily lives.

As Gandalf and I walked along, some of the children came to greet him and dance around him asking about his fireworks.  He politely told them that there would be no fireworks this time around, but promised that next time he came around he’d give them more fireworks than they would ever see.

I smiled fondly at the interaction and even some of the kids came up to me asking me who I was.  I told them my name and one Hobbit girl even commented on my hair, saying it was beautiful like a pony’s mane.  I thanked her and off she and her friends went.

“How far off is Bilbo’s home Gandalf?”

“Not much farther my dear girl. Not much farther.” We came up to the end of the hill to see a grand house that stood on top of a hill. Beautiful flowers spread out across the front porch and a stone like staircase went up, up, up until it reached the Hobbit home with a pure green door that looked freshly painted.

And there sitting on his bench was whom I assumed to be Bilbo Baggins.  He had curly auburn hair, wore brown pants, a white shirt with a light brown, almost khaki colored vest and a sky blue tie around his neck.  

In his hand he held a long pipe and was currently smoking from it, daydreaming under the warmth of the sun.  Gandalf and I walked up towards the fence that surrendered his home and Gandalf morphed one of the circles Bilbo had smoked out into a butterfly which flew over right to his nose.

With a twitch and snort he woke up and looked at us cautiously. Eyeing us up and down before greeting us.

“Good morning.”

“What do you mean? Do you mean to wish us a good morning do you mean it is a good morning whether we want it or not? Or perhaps you mean to say that you feel good on this particular morning? Or are you simply stating that this is a morning to be good on?”

“All of them at once, I suppose.” Bilbo stated puzzled at Gandalf’s questioning.  I noticed how Gandalf eyed the little hobbit skeptically.  After feeling Gandalf’s questioning look on him, he asked the wizard again, “Can I help you?”

“That remains to be seen. I’m looking for someone to share in an adventure.” Bilbo removed his pipe from his lips and repeated Gandalf’s last statement.

“An adventure?” he craned his neck sideways before gesturing with his pipe. “No, I don’t imagine anyone west of Bree would have much interest in adventures.” He stood up and continued as he went to his mailbox and got out his mail and began sorting through them.  “Nasty, disturbing, uncomfortable things. Make you late for dinner.” He chuckled at the end.

Awkwardly sorting repeatedly through his mail, humming, and taking a few more puffs from his pipe he bid us another good morning before walking up the steps towards his home.

“To think that we should have lived to be ‘good morninged’ by Belladonna Took’s son, as if we were selling buttons at the door.” Bilbo turned back towards us, looking at Gandalf confused at the mention of what I assumed to be his mother’s name.

“Beg your pardon?”

“You’ve changed. And not entirely for the better Bilbo Baggins.” Gandalf scolded him.

“I’m sorry do I know you? Both of you for that matter?”

“Well my dear Mr. Baggins you don’t know me. My name is Hela, and my traveling companion here is Gandalf.”

“Precisely! And Gandalf means…..me!” Gandalf emphasized.

“Well. Pleasure to make your acquaintance Ms. Hela. And Gandalf? Not Gandalf the wandering Wizard who made such excellent fireworks? Old Took used to have them on Midsummer’s Eve. Heh, heh. Ahem. No idea you were still in business.” Bilbo first greeted me before praising Gandalf and then giving that last jab for his last statement.

Gandalf’s face went from proud acknowledgement to a stern face at Bilbo’s last statement.

“And where else should I be?” Gandalf questioned.

“Where else--? Ahem.” Bilbo muttered before clearing his throat and going back to his pipe.

“Well, I’m please to find you remember something about me, even if it’s only my fireworks. Yes, well that’s decided. It’ll be very good for you, and most amusing for me. Hela my dear girl, you stay here with Bilbo while I inform the others.”

“Inform the who? What? No. No, no—wait. We do not want….any adventures here thank you. Not today. Not—” quite a squirrelly response he was giving to emphasize to Gandalf that he clearly didn’t want to go on an any adventures as he walked right up to his door.  “I suggest you try Over the Hill or Across the Water.” He kept looking at us before bidding us a final good morning and shutting himself up in his home.

“Well that went well.” I stated sarcastically to Gandalf. He spoke not a word but marched right up to Bilbo’s door and with the end of his staff drew a mark on the neatly painted door.  

A mark that consisted of a straight line down and two coming down diagonally from the right side.  He then walked right up to the window and peeked inside Bilbo’s home and stood there for a moment before coming back down.

“Just keep an eye on him till I return. Warm him up to the idea and prepare him for our guests.” He quietly whispered.

“Gandalf I’m just as surprised as he is when you mentioned others. Just who exactly are you bringing and how many are involved?” he spoke not another word before walking away humming to himself.  I sighed.  “Even to a Celestial, Wizards are complex beings. Not even Ajak could figure them out.” I walked up to the door and gently knocked on it.

“Th-there-there’s nobody home!”

“Bilbo it’s me, Hela.” There was silence before his voice came a little closer to the door.

“Are you alone? Just you and no one else?” I smiled. Like talking to a timid creature.

“Yes Bilbo, it is just me.” I heard latches being unlatched and soon the door opened to reveal the frantic little hobbit.

“I am truly sorry about that. Normally around new guests I’m much more proper than that but, all this talk of adventures it—” he softly let out a whiny as he scrunched his nose up anxiously.

“I can understand. Hobbits prefer the quiet peaceful lifestyle. And I wouldn’t blame you. If someone suddenly appeared at my doorstep wanting me to come on adventures when all I’ve known is a comfortable lifestyle, I would react just as you have.”

“But you look like someone who has been on adventures. Many if I might say so myself.”

“Indeed I have. But even so there is still much I have not yet seen. Like the Shire for example. Without Gandalf to guide me I’m….afraid I’ll just get myself lost.”

“Well, I—can’t just allow you to wonder off and get lost now can I? Please, come on in and I’ll make you some tea.” He opened the door allowing me to come inside.

I had to bend my head and shoulders slightly in order to fit inside as Bilbo shut the door behind him and walked towards his kitchen. As I walked around the home, I could see old books and maps, beautifully hand-carved furniture, a grand fireplace (Hobbit size of course).  It was quite homey in this little hole in the ground.

“Wow. And I thought a home in the ground would be filled with dirt and worms.”

“Most would, most would. But this madam, is a Hobbit Hole. Which means good food, a warm hearth, and all the comforts of home.”

“And a truly comfortable looking home it is. Did you decorate this place all by yourself?”

“Oh no it’s been in the family for generations. There will always be a Baggins in Bag-End. And there always will be. Oh yes tea, right. Which would you like chamomile or Jasmine? I’ve also got mint or even Westfarthing tea. They’ve got the best of everything from vegetables, tobacco leaves, even tea bags.”

“Think I’ll take the chamomile. Always been my favorite.” He nodded and began to prepare the tea while I came into the kitchen and sat myself down at the table.  In a few short minutes the tea was properly made and he poured me a cup and I thanked him for it.

“This is delicious Bilbo.” I said after taking a sip of the tea.

“Thank you Miss Hela.”

“Oh drop the formalities, just Hela is fine.”

“Right of course, Hela. If, if you don’t mind me asking. What’s someone like you doing traveling with a Wizard?”

“Oh Gandalf and I go way back together. We’re old friends he and I. And he wanted me to see the rolling hills and peaceful valley of the Shire. Like I said I’ve never been here before, but I’ve heard plenty of tales of Hobbits from Gandalf.”

“Not much based off of tales of war heroes or adventurers. As I’m sure you’re aware we Hobbits never favor any of those types of things. Make you late to all of our seven meals.”  Goodness seven meals a day! Perhaps Sprite was made to be half hobbit, she definitely could eat like one, especially when it came to sweets. “Speaking of that, I need to pick some things up from the market, would you care to come with?”

“You wouldn’t mind me tagging along?”

“Well it’d be rude to leave a guest alone in a strange house, wouldn’t you think?”

“Yes I suppose so. Only if you don’t mind Bilbo.”

“I don’t. Plus I can show you a little bit more of the Shire.”

“Sure.” I drank the last bit of my tea and together the two of us left his hobbit hole and headed down towards the market.

It was a lively place filled with hobbits trading in their goods, carrying their products to the shops on carriages pulled by cattle or a wagon pulled by a pig.  Children were dancing and playing merrily, and everyone having well-good conversations.

If only the rest of Middle-earth could take a note from the Hobbits in having a polite, friendly conversation with each other, instead of having old rifts tearing them apart.

I was walking through the clothing markets and soon came across a female hobbit who was selling ribbons and bows.  She had a bubbly face, with rosy cheeks, bright blue eyes, a beautiful sunflower colored dress and curly blonde hair.

“Hello Miss, how may I help you today?”

“I’ve actually liked that fine blue and yellow bow right there, how much?”

“Two copper pieces.” Wow that much? That’s cheap than what I can get it from the people in Laketown where they try to charge you 8 silver pieces, per inch.  I reached into my pocket and handed her the two copper pieces and she handed me the blue and yellow bow.  “Here you go love, enjoy your day Miss.”

“You too madam, have a good day.” I walked away and admired the colors.  I sighed solemnly and thought to myself, ‘Even if I can’t have you here with my physically, at least I’ve got your uniform colors to remember you by. Mother Ajak.’ That’s when I felt a hand grab my wrist and I was suddenly jerked towards the bridge.

I looked down to see Bilbo as he had us hide down by the bridge (even though it was pointless for me to hide).

“Bilbo what are you—” he shushed me before suddenly relaxing.

“Sorry Hela I-I thought I had seen…..never mind. Come on, let’s get back home, it’s almost dinner time.” He walked ahead and I turned back around towards a few hobbits who had carried a basket and I saw a giant pillow that almost resembled Gandalf’s hat.  Ahh I get it now.  Without another word, I followed behind Bilbo as we returned to his home of Bag-end.

[blueberry-lavender]

Hi! A bit late, but welcome to posting on Tumblr! I hope you're having fun and doing well ;)

I saw you're taking requests for Xander? I was wondering if you could write some fluff with him,,, maybe his SO comforting him after getting crowned as king. Y'know, stuff like him doubting if he could do better than his father, and worried about Nohr's future in general. And SO being there for him to give him some love,,, he deserves it!! He is a good man and he deserves to be reminded often.

One-shot or hc's, whatever works best for you! Female or gender neutral reader is okay too.

Have a lovely day/night and thank you ;>

Crowned Comfort - Part I

A/N: Ah! This is so cute! I'm going to write this as a one-shot, and the reader is neutral. Thank you for being my first request Anon! I simp for Xander so hard oml. This was so long! I'll get Part II out before Xmas.

---

This was the night of the coronation. Everyone was lively, excited to celebrate the new King of Nohr. Everyone was invited, and oh my lord that is a lot of people. Not everyone came, just reading it in the paper was enough for them. Hoshidan royalty, Hinoka and Sakura, came too. They were enjoying themselves, talking to knights, retainers, and royalty alike. The room was fun, and the people radiated that energy (especially Elise, she was off the walls.) Everyone was having fun.

Everyone except Xander.

He was a wreck. Every time he talked to someone he was terrified of making a mistake. He was all over the room. Hosting, conversing, laughing, commanding, everything. He was sitting in his chair (almost a throne, much more adorned than the others), and he showed many signs of nervousness. His hands trembled in his lap, his heartbeat pounded in his head, he wasn't really breathing, and his brain had stopped working like it used to. Or it was going a million miles per hour. No in-between.

While he was standing looking at the ballroom being cleared from it's tables to get ready for the dancing, he felt a soft tap on his shoulder.

"Hmm?" he hummed as he turned his head.

"Xander?" Y/n asked softly with a concerned look on their face.

"Oh, Y/n, darling you startled me. Do you need something?"

"Yes, actually. I need you to come with me."

"Dear, I'm sorry but I'm busy at the momen-"

"No you're not." Y/n tugged his arm and rolled their eyes.

"But-"

"No."

Y/n glared at him with a look he knew he would get in trouble with if he kept arguing. There weren't many people in the room, only the work staff. The guests were all in the front of the castle watching a jester's performance with fire. An easy slip-away was very possible with these conditions.

"What did you need?" Xander asked with the most unaware concern ever.

"You! You can't expect to run a whole night with no break in between can you? Let's keep walking." Y/n almost scolded him.

"Y/n." Xander held onto their upper arm, "I appreciate the sentiment, but I must get back. People need me to oversee."

"Well," Y/n took his hand, "Good thing I told Leo exactly what to do while you're away." They smiled.

Staring at each other, Xander had a break of a smirk on his face.

"What did you need to speak with me about so badly then?" He spoke calm and low.

Without responding, Y/n wrapped around him. A little shocked, he nuzzled his face in their neck.

Then he realized.

With him slowly tearing up, Y/n reached up and started messing with his hair. He almost latched onto her, like this is all he needed in life at the moment.

"It's okay." Y/n whispered to him. "You're doing amazing. I'm so proud of you."

"I don't think Father would be." He choked out between his gasps for air.

Even though Garon was insane in his last bit of life, that wasn't really him. Xander still valued him as his father, not as a traitor. Of course, the trauma of it all was still relatively new, so Xander hadn't really come to terms with any of it yet. Good thing Y/n is there.

"Oh my goodness," Y/n whispered to herself. "He is so proud of you. And so is Queen Katerina. I know they are so happy for and with you."

"You can't speak for the dead." Xander sounded almost upset over that fact.

"True. And neither can you, so stop saying they don't like what you're doing. You're doing your best. And most of all, I'm proud of you."

Still in that hug, Xander hugged tighter. Y/n returned the favor.

"I love you, Xander, you know that?" Y/n backed away to look at his eyes when she said it.

"I love you too, Y/n." Tears still in his eyes, he kissed her to feel a little better.

After breaking, Y/n grabbed onto his arms with hers.

"Do you want to talk about this later, too? I think the ballroom's ready." Y/n brought them both back to reality.

"Of course. On one condition." Xander perked up, smiling.

"Oh? And what would that be?" Y/n laughed through their words.

"If you dance with me for the night."

Laughing, Y/n nodded their head. And off they went their separate ways, to go and prepare to have a lovely night.

[darth-atarah]

EPISTULAE - Those Five Years

A series of letters my characters send to each other or to some companions between 16 and 21 ATC, while the Outlander is frozen in carbonite. I may write more of them in the future as I figure out what everyone of them was doing, and I will update this post.

See the end for some notes.

————————————

The Force has spoken to me once more. For what our differences are, I know it has spoken to you as well.

I am going into hiding, and bring those who want to follow me. You may criticize me for my cowardice or inertness in your next letter if you wish, but I hope one day I can explain you my reasons for such a choice in person, and that you will understand.

For the first time in months, the path is clear. It is now the moment for us to retire, so we can return stronger in the future, and fight once more.

“When the Faithful shall doubt

When the Proud shall rest in pride

and the One who once escaped will dare to look behind,

The Spark shall ignite once again”

This is what my visions said to me, this is the time when we will act. Though when this future will come, I do not know. For now, all I can hope is that, when the signs will manifest, you and I will be able to recognize them.

Until then, stay safe.

S.N.

[Classified dispatch delivered to Darth Nox, 18 ATC]

————————————

Theron,

I had good news from my sister, more or less. Some days ago, a group of Zakuulans arrived to her enclave, disguised as refugees. They definitely knew were to look and for who. Sofia obviously had them spitting out everything in a matter of hours with all that charm of her. I would have opted for a blaster to their heads, but that’s not the point.

They’re deserters, Theron, DESERTERS. And apparently willing to give some infos you and Lana might want to hear, but let’s leave the rest for when we meet in person. Those fuckers already know too much about my businesses for my own tastes.

As if we hadn’t our hands full already, their leader says one of the damn Knights is hunting him down. We have to move quickly, I’ll find a way to have him brought here, so I can see for myself if this guy is as useful as Sof says. She also kept mentioning some Force vision and one of those cryptic poems she writes, but I think I’ll keep relying on facts.

Whatever blasted hell you are in, fly safe.

Elias

[Message delivered to Theron Shan’s personal shuttle, 19 ATC]

————————————

Malavai,

By the time you read this, I will already be in the Unknown Regions.

I know I will disappoint you with my decision, and as I leave Dromund Kaas that is my only regret. But my instincts have never betrayed me, and it is my intention to follow them, even if this time they bring me far from you, from our son and our home.

For the first time, Lana and Theron seem to have a true lead. A part of me still refuses the idea of a single Jedi being the key of this war, but I am willing to take the risk if this can save the Empire from its degrading condition.

I now speak to you not as your Lord, not as the Empire’s Wrath, but just as a wife, and a mother. In the name of what we shared, I ask you to read carefully.

This message will automatically delete as soon as you close it. For no reason you must be linked to my actions in any way. If there is any affection for me left in your heart, do not try to reach out to me until I do it myself. Do not try to find me, or send agents trying to.

Take our son and leave Kaas City. To defy the Council has consequences, the capital is NOT safe.

Watch over Vidarr and stay safe, my love.

Rhy’Lis

[Automatic message sent to Captain Malavai Quinn’s personal frequency, 19 ATC]

————————————

Consider yourself lucky, for your husband had the sense to contact me instead of his dear High Command before the whole Empire could learn about your foolish act.

I won’t even begin to explain how much of what we were planning is now undone. I thought you had come to terms with your mistake of favoring Acina, years ago. All she was able to do was condemning us all to this humiliating subjection. Your support to my claim as Emperor would have been invaluable, since every other remaining Lord seems to lack any sense or nerve in these times. In light of your recent actions and the chaos that will succeed, I have no other choice than to keep working in the shadows.

But it is not my intention to send my army after you, or the Intelligence, not for the moment, even if it would be my pleasure to scold you in person. Another one already came to me before, sure that what you, Shan and Beniko intend to do it is the ultimate solution to turn the tables of this conflict. I remain skeptical about said “solution”, but should you succeed in your search, I will follow the developments with great interest.

I will do what I can so no one learns about your true purpose. However, I don’t think I will be able to do much for the reputation you shall gain in the eyes of the Dark Council and of the Empress. Most likely, they will decide to mark you as a traitor when Zakuul comes to us, demanding explanations for the sudden absence of the Wrath.

I trust you won’t be foolish enough to answer this message. I will wait for more favorable times, should you hear from me again.

Nox

[Encrypted message delivered to the Empire’s Wrath personal ship, 20 ATC]

————————————

It has to be tonight, Elara.

We finally have a lead. If what I learned from Theron and Lana is true, we are closer to Master Mynehart than ever before.

My family got us an unregistered ship that will be ready by the end of the day, settled on a route for Zakuul. No one will stop us at the spaceport.

Aric and Yuun are coming too, and I was able to persuade the others. We’ll leave Forex behind for now, too many risks. And I heard nothing from Tanno.

I am aware of the position I am putting you in, but this inertness is sickening to say the least. Havoc’s dismissal was the last insult; as a soldier of the Republic I can’t tolerate this situation any longer.

Docking bay 61-b, 20.00

I trust to see you there, my friend.

Clotilde

[Message delivered to Sergeant Elara Dorne, later turned in to Supreme Commander Jace Malcom, 20 ATC]

————————————

THE SPARK IGNITES ONCE AGAIN

THE SPARK IGNITES ONCE AGAIN

THE SPARK IGNITES ONCE AGAIN

[Transmission repeated on every available frequency approximately 48 hours after the Outlander’s escape, 21 ATC. Zakuulan Intelligence wasn’t able to detect the exact source]

————————————

NOTES:

Battlemaster Phoebe Mynehart is the Outlander.

My Sith Warrior, Rhy’Lis Akrasia, joined Lana and Theron on their search for the Outlander.

Barsen’thor Sofia Naerie and Domiras Kallig aka Darth Nox have been secretly in contact, exchanging informations and trying to limit the sabotage actions between the Republic and the Empire. Rumor has it that they have been emotionally involved.

My Smuggler, Elias Naerie, is Sofia’s older brother and helps her by smuggling goods and transporting refugees to various safehouses around the Galaxy.

Clotilde Feyre, my Trooper, remained in command of Havoc Squad, and is an open opposer to the peace treaties with Zakuul.

[sumsebien]

Your Highness pt.5// Prince Friedrich

series masterlist

summary: Y/N and Friedrich are still very much in the fairytale stage of their engagement. Of course, that is before the Queen gives her verdict on this match.

warnings: none

a/n: final part of your highness. the next part is “i’ll be in ruins for you” and it’s already up so check that out. oh and here is the duclaux piece i've been writing about. okayyy i’m too excited i am posting this right now :))))

When you and Anthony told Lord Wilson of your decision, he was happy for you and even invited you to visit his cottage should you ever find yoursef in Scotland. That alleviated parts of the guilt you felt for having strung him along. You wished him all the happiness and fortune before he bid you goodbye and left for his home. After that, you and the Prince had your last dance of the night, both of you trying to keep your giddiness to an absolute minimum as you spun around the room in each other’s arms.

It was utter bliss.

You hadn’t announced the news to the world just yet. So far, the only people who knew of your engagement were your family and Friedrich. And you intended to keep it that way until absolutely necessary.

Everyone was happy. Mama and Daphne were on board the moment they learned that you would remain close, most of the time, for them to visit. Benedict was just glad you had found your match and that you were generous enough to lend him that oil set. Colin was slightly sad that you’d not be living in a splendid castle in Prussia and allow him a tour whenever he made a stop on one of his continental tours. Little Hyacinth was most excited of all, always wondering what you were going to do the moment you became a Princess. Gregory usually answered before you could, resulting in a chase around the house.

As for you, you found yourself singing alone as you sketched in your notebook all the things that reminded you of Friedrich. And it had only been the morning after the engagement. You could not wait for noon to arrive so that you may see him again for the private tour of Somerset.

“Someone’s happy,” Benedict remarked, falling against the empty seat next to you.

“She has been singing all morning!” Eloise said, looking up from her book.

You smiled, ignoring them and went on with your humming.

“Miss Bridgerton?” Humbolt appeared at the entrance to the drawing room. “From Prince Friedrich, my Lady.”

“Yes?” You stood, leaving your notebook behind on the couch.

From behind him, Humbolt picked up a beautiful arrangement of flowers, almost as tall as he was. You hadn’t even fully registered the impressive stature of it yet and Mama was already touching the flowers and sniffing them.

“Darling, this must be very expensive,” she said, pointing at the two-toned roses in white and pink, along with the vibrant pops of blue from the cornflowers. The bouquet was finished with gardenias, adding a wonderful aroma to the room almost immediately.

“But why cornflowers and roses?” Eloise asked and all of you turned to Mama for an answer.

“Roses are the national flower of England as cornflowers are to Prussia.”

You felt an overwhelming sense of warmth just looking at him like so. You decided to sit down on the bench behind you and began to sketch him, “after that day, I went to the library and did my reasearch. Antoine Jean Duclaux, at the time he painted this, was only a student accompanying a more famous artist. While his teacher painted a Queen playing music, Duclaux made a portrait of her from the back. Perhaps so grief-stricken by the recent loss of her dear friend that she could not show her face.” The graphite version of Friedrich was coming to life and you had all the intentions of repainting it onto a canvas. You tried to capture his gentleness with the way his fingers curled ever so gently as well as his strength held mainly in his shoulders. The Friedrich before you had caught onto what you were doing by now. “You’re supposed to draw something that inspires you! That’s the only reason why we are here, my dear!” “I know! And I am doing just that!” He had no objections to remaining still and allowing you to complete your sketch. It didn’t take as long as you made him believe it would. The last five minutes you spent admiring him but he did not have to know that. After you were done, your family arrived to the Duclaux piece. Friedrich joined Hyacinth and Gregory and messed about in the room while you stood next to Benedict. “I don’t have favorites but if I did, you would be my favorite sister, you know that?” Benedict whispered to you when you came to stand by his side. “Do you love me? Or do you love him?” You motioned towards Friedrich who was now helping Hyacinth with her revenge. “Both of you I adore. For you have such fine taste in arts and in people,” he smiled, swinging his arm around your shoulder. You chuckled, about to tease him further when the your guide stopped talking. Through the door came a guard who cleared his voice, looking to Friedrich, “your Royal Highness, the Queen has requested your presence at once.” Before he turned to you, “And yours, Miss Bridgerton.” Dear readers, This Author believes she has uncovered a royal engagement made in secret. It is not hard to guess who the two lovebirds might be in this town. This morning a large bouquet of flowers was sent to the Bridgerton House. Large enough to mean more than just courting. Should the Prince have found himself a Princess so soon? And in someone other than the Diamond of the Season, as well. How very scandalous!

You remembered the nerves you felt waiting behind the tall white ornate doors with Mama and Daphne. You had tried your best not to mess up and in doing so, you paid no mind to your footing which resulted in you almost falling to the ground in front of her Majesty. It wasn’t as much of a disaster as Miss Featherington who fainted at her feet but it was enough to make a terrible and no doubt, lasting impression on her.

You just didn’t expect yourself to be here again. Behind those white doors, engaged to her nephew, you were going to go in and explain yourself to her the reason why you two had hid the engagement from her and have her found out through reading Whistledown. No amount of sophistication and elegance could save you now.

Before you were due inside, you tugged at Friedrich’s hand. He, for one, was not nervous at all, still smiling. The crinkles by his eyes and the dimples by his cheeks offered you a moment of peace. “And what would your mother say? When the Queen tells her that we hid an engagement from her?” you asked quietly. At this point, anything that could delay the possibility of losing Friedrich was good enough.

“She is in Prussia and should not be here until I ask her to. When she does, she will love you. And,” he gave your hand a final kiss, “we did not hide anything. I would never hide my love for you. Not from the Queen, not from anyone.”

You nodded before turning to Anthony who gave you a small smile. “It’s going to be alright, sister.” But you could tell he was nervous too from the ways he kept fidgeting with his fingers behind his back.

Echoing from inside the throne room were your names and suddenly the doors swung open, revealing the longest walk you’d ever taken leading up to the throne. The Queen sat leaning back, her watchful eyes burning into you three, but especially you. Beside her was an army of lady’s maids in extravagant gowns, Pomeranians in their arms. You kept your gaze low and made sure that you did not trip and that your curtsy was perfect.

So far, everything went swimmingly. Up until she opened her mouth. “Care to explain what this is, Friedrich?” She snapped her fingers and one of the servants brought forth a copy of Whistledown on a tray.

Friedrich held up his hand to stop the servant from moving any further. “Lady Whistledown was correct to assume we were engaged.”

She laughed, “You are engaged? To her?”

“I asked Miss Bridgerton to marry me last night and she has accepted. We were going to tell you very soon.”

“You proposed last night?” The Queen sat up in her seat, about to storm forward but stopped herself and slumped back, throwing a hand over her forehead, “do my opinions mean so little to you?”

Anyone in their right mind would be scared out of their wits by now. You were sure Friedrich was the only one you had ever met who wasn’t terrified of the Queen. You glanced to him briefly. He kept his gaze steady on her, still calm and collected. “I love her very much. As she loves me. She may not be what you are looking for in a wife for me but she is what I am looking for. I hope we may have your blessing.”

The Queen did not seem like she was listening or like she cared at all. You knew this was headed. Your hand brushed his, knowing the inevitable was on the horizon. He didn’t look at you, his eyes burning into the Queen.

“No. And you,” she looked to you and Anthony. Contempt in her gaze and venom in her words, “you shall leave.”

taglist: @awesomebooklover17 @oopsiedoopsie23 @milkbaer @vampirestookmydoubts @5hundreddaysofsummer ❤️

let me know if you’d like to be tagged in the replies or through messages. love you.

[le-poor-writer]

Serve at First Sight (Kageyama Tobio x F!Reader)

"I bet I can..." Hinata mumbled and narrowed his eyes at him.

"Hah?" Kageyama glared back. "What did you just say?"

"I'm not good at setting. BUT I BET I CAN HIT THE LONGEST AND FASTEST SERVE!"

"IS THAT A CHALLENGE?"

"YOU WANNA GO NOW?"

"Uh... Kageyama, Hinata, Stop messing around or else you'll get an earful from Daichi-san." Yamaguchi tries to mediate the situation. The last time the idiotic duo did something stupid, all the first years had to run extra laps. And he was not up for that today.

"No use talking to idiots Yamaguchi." Tsukki sneered. "They have an IQ capacity of a teaspoon."

Hinata stood at the line of the court, deciding to go first. Throwing the ball into the air, he jumped as high as he could. As if he were a crow that leaped into the sky. His ball managed to land a good one meter away from line of the opposite side. A loud bang resonating the court and he beamed smugly at his tall opponent. Kageyama had a ball ready in hands as he took Hinata's place. Itching to outperformed the record set by the orange-head. Closing his eyes, he briefly replayed Oikawa's diabolical jump serve from their previous practice match. He knew he was a hundred years too early to be able to do that. Doesn't mean he won't try his luck though.

With a deep exhale, he took flight. Blocking out all sounds surrounding him, save that of his squeaking shoes and the volleyball as he slapped it forward. The stinging sensation felt on his hand causing him to grin. Not quite like Oikawa's, but still powerful. This is it, it will definitely plunge further than Hinata's. And it did. The ball flew pass that one meter mark. And hit a person. Kageyama's eyes blinked twice before the situation finally seeped through his thick skull. He had hit someone's head! Suddenly he could hear his surroundings again. Hinata panicked scream. Yamaguchi running towards the unfortunate human being who fell to the ground. Tsukki trying not to laugh at this slapstick comedy.

Kageyama sprinted towards the person. A hundred thoughts running through his mind. Is the person alright? Is he going to get in trouble with Daichi for this? Where are the third years anyway? Most importantly, when was that person there? How is it he did not notice them? What were they doing there in the first place? Surely no one would actually collapsed from that hit, right? He stood behind Yamaguchi who was trying to communicate with the seemingly unconscious person. And that was when Kageyama noticed, the person was a girl. A petite girl. He kneeled beside Yamaguchi. She seemed to be a little pale.

"Hello?" Yamaguchi tapping her shoulder. "Excuse me, can you hear me?"

No reply.

"KAGEYAMA KILLED SOMEONE!" Hinata hollered.

"What are you going to do now Kageyama?" Despite knowing that she only passed out, Tsukki decided to humour Hinata.

"I'll take her to the nurse's office." Immediately he carried her and jogged out of the court. Hoping not to run into anyone. Especially Daichi.

He couldn't help but glance at her face every three seconds. Wondering if she will wake up midway. But she didn't and that worried him more. If it weren't for her soft faint breaths he would have thought that he actually committed manslaughter with his jump serve. Besides, she has such a small frame. He was afraid if he really did break her. Kageyama held her closer to his body. Noticing how she fit snugly in his arms. And when looked closely, she's actually really cute. A blush spread quickly all over his face. What was he thinking? He doesn't even know her.

~~~~~~~~~~

(Y/n) blinked slowly. Feeling slightly dazed.

She woke up late today, all because of that stupid extra Japanese literature homework that had to be submitted during first period. And because she woke up late, she skipped breakfast. She wanted to get something during lunch, but had to drop by the school library to return some books that were due today. Well what do you know, apparently everyone needed to return their books today. If she had known she would've asked her friends to at least get her melon bread. She had about 10 minutes left before lunch ended, but she ran into her senior and was reminded to submit the club activities report today.

It was so hard to focus on classes for the rest of the afternoon. She drank lots of water in hopes to delay the impending dizziness. It was somewhat working. She only needed to wait until clubs and activities time. She'll get a sugary drink from the vending machine, then tell the club leader that she's going to head home early. But karma really had to be a bitch today. Her wallet was not in her bag. (Y/n) dreaded the fact that she might have dropped it somewhere. Searching for her wallet with this now nasty migraine is really going to be such a pain. That is until she suddenly remembered she left it in her drawer at home. She had forgotten about it amidst the rush.

(Y/n) crouched in front of the vending machine. What are the gods playing at exactly. Is it really so hard to get a single bite? Is this karma for denying Mr. Snuggles his treat last week? Well it was not her fault that he knocked over her pudding off the table! She was on the verge of tears when she heard the sound of volleyballs. Oh right, the vending machine was sort of close to the volleyball court... Didn't Yachi say she was recently the co-manager for Karasuno's volleyball club along with that beautiful senior Kiyoko. There is hope. She only needed a little money to get that small carton of drink.

She stood up quickly and regretted it. God, this migraine is killing her. With every ounce of determination she had left, she dragged her feet towards the court. Swaying a little every now and then. The sounds were getting louder, The ball hitting the court, shoes squeaking and people yelling? This is a good thing, it meant that she was getting closer. This is also a bad thing, because it's splitting her skull. Everything around her blurred as she entered the hall. Shit, where is Yachi? She took a few more steps before she felt a hard impact on her head. Dear lord that hurts like hell. And she lost all control of her body before everything went black.

"Oi." a gruff voice distracted her thoughts.

She sat up immediately. Hitting her head on the bed post in the process. She has realized by now that she must have passed out and someone from the volleyball club took her to the nurses office. It must have been this boy sitting beside her. But that still didn't mean she wouldn't be caught off guard. She has always been somewhat intimidated by the male species. Especially those tall towering ones that had to bend a little to talk to her. It's one of the unfortunate things one has to endure being 4'10 and having a small frame. People often joked that she could fit in a suitcase. Though seeing her other shorter friends did brought her pleasure, it still doesn't change the fact that a lot of people around her were giants.

"Idiot."

"Excuse me?" she glared. What's the big idea calling her an idiot out of nowhere. He was the one who surprised her. Sitting on a stool at her bedside, ain't that too close for a stranger, sir?  Who is he again? The volleyball club is pretty popular here in Karasuno after they managed to get into the finals of Inter high recently. It was unfortunate that they lost to Aoba Johsai, but everyone acknowledged what a monster the school was. Yachi said everyone felt down but it didn't dampened their spirit, for their next chance will be the Spring Tournament.

"S-sorry." the guy replied.

Dark eyes darting away from her face. She could make out an intimidating look on his face. Eyebrows furrowing sternly. Lips set on a grim line. Yet his cheeks flushed. Or was it because of the orange hue from the setting sun (she couldn't really tell), which also made his black hair glow. It dawned upon (y/n) that if he could just smooth away his frown, he would be handsome (she thinks). And if only he weren't being gruffy. Wait a minute. Tall volleyball player, black hair, intimidating frowning face but yet somehow still good looking?

"I'm Kageyama Tobio-"

"I know."

Silence... Well that was awkward.

She cleared her throat. "I'm (L/n) (Y/n). From Class 5. Um, Yachi's friend."

"Oh." Shoot. He didn't know she was Yachi's friend. What will the manager say about this. "I'm sorry. That my jump serve knocked you out."

"No no no! I was actually a little hypoglycemic. So your uh, jump serve was just the final nail in the coffin." Damn, she knew that getting hit by any ball was going to hurt. But the ball just now, it felt like it could tear her head off. Or maybe that's just an exaggeration of being starved the whole day. She realized his expression went from frowning to horrifying. "N-not that it will literally be the final nail to my coffin! It was just an expression. Maybe not a good one. Sorry I'm just bad with words when it comes to strangers. I mean not that you're an absolute stranger. It's just that- I'm sorry, I'm blabbering too much."

"Not at all!" he yelled. Ah, he got too animated. He didn't understand why. But he just thought everything about this girl is cute. From her petite stature that makes him want to shield her from the wind. To her way of talking that showed just how shy and awkward she was as how it is with him. Trying to reassure him that it was fine. He couldn't understand this sudden grip in his heart and the tingling sensation at his fingertips. Though maybe it was because he hasn't touch the volleyball for a few hours now.

Another awkward silence ensues.

"Anyways," (Y/n) was still a bit shy. She was after all talking to one of the most popular boys at school. But seeing as how he is now, she thought she could loosen up her guard a bit. "Have you seen my glasses?"

"You wear glasses?"

They rushed back together to the volleyball court. Yachi attacked her with a hug as she lamented about the news she heard from her fellow peers. Daichi scolding him to be careful next time whilst Tanaka giving him his infamous gangster glare. Hinata coming forward with his head down as he presented (Y/n)'s broken glasses. He accidently stepped on them when he was panicking, though he only realised it when she was sent to the nurse's office. Her glasses must have fallen off her head when she got hit. That hard huh. Really God, you want to test her that much today. Fine, she'll apologize to Mr. Snuggles when she gets home.

Unbeknownst to her, Kageyama felt even worse than earlier. His ball caused her to knocked out, and now it even knocked off the glasses from her head and broke it. Stuttering on his words, he apologized again. Hands balled into a tight fist. He just felt so bad. Suga noticed how dejected he sounded. But he also noticed how pink his ears were. Oh? Well even if it wasn't what he thought, there was no harm in... light teasing. Besides, they'd looked adorable together, no?

"If you really feel guilty. Then you should walk her home today." slinging his arm over Kageyama's shoulder, Suga tried to keep a neutral expression. Well there was a slight smirk, but he tried. "What if she falls down on her way home? Or run into a pole?"

"I am short-sighted Sugawara-senpai. Not blind." (Y/n) said through gritted teeth. Really these eyesight jokes should be old by now. "Besides, I will need to stop by the optic shop to have new ones made."

"All the more for him to accompany you. It will get dark soon. Might be dangerous to be walking alone with such bad eyesight."

"Oh no, I wouldn't want to burden-"

"Let's go." Kageyama interrupted. And when she declined again, he argued back. "Stop being a stubborn idiot. You still haven't eaten, you can't see well and you're so light that people can just easily carry you away."

Did he just called her an idiot for the second time in the short the period they have known each other. How rude! Not that his points were invalid. He was right. But boy does this person lack delicacy. In the end, she agreed to let him accompany her. He bought two cartons of milk from the vending machine. One for each of them, and they set off on their merry way.

~~~~~~~~~~

"No- Okay. Once again. Osmosis only works with solvents. Simple diffusion, both solvents and solutes. So in osmosis, solvents will move from low solute concentration-" (Y/n) stopped explaining when she noticed how Kageyama's brows were almost touching. His lips formed a small pout. "You know what, we have been revising for more than an hour. Let's take 5. Then continue for another hour. It's getting late and although my mum likes you, my dad wouldn't like you being in my room for too long."

Ever since that day where he sent her home, she began hanging out more with Yachi and the volleyball club. Not that she never hung out with her close friend, it's just that (y/n) felt out of place when she mingles with unfamiliar crowds. But now that every member knew her as the girl who got hit by Kageyama's jump serve, that became the basis of her acquaintanceship with the club and she got to hang out with Yachi more. And before she realized it, Kageyama has just been around her circle. Always there. Heck he has been walking her home more often now that even her mother likes him. Then they became just friends. Or she hoped it stayed that way, because she noticed her emotions began crossing unknown territories.

(Y/n) has come to learn a few things about Kageyama Tobio over the course of their friendship. One, he is an obsessed volleyball freak. A prodigy people say. But what (Y/n) sees is a person consumed by passion for the things he loves. And that isn't necessarily bad. Two, he can be quite childish. He fails to control his frustration which later comes off the wrong way whenever he expresses them. But really he means no harm, because when he is happy, he expresses them genuinely. And three, he is quite sensitive. He may want to show that he didn't care, but he actually takes things to heart. He may feel down about a comment, but he will learn to improve from it.

"Sorry."

"What for?"

"For having to teach an idiot like me."

"Oh stop it. Everyone is good and bad at something. We can't all be the perfect prodigy. That's just how things are. You may be bad at studying, but with your volleyball skills I bet you can represent Japan one day." noticing his eyes lit up, she continued. "So in order for you to attend your camp. Let's just try our best okay?"

Kageyama nodded. It was a little embarrassing to have her comforting him like this. But at the same time it brings him immense joy. When he first met her, he would get flutters looking at her cute appearance. Now, he just feels all warm and fuzzy whenever she talks to him. He liked that she didn't judge him or anyone she's ever met. She would scold him sometimes, but at the same time explained her reasoning. And he really appreciated that, how patient she was with him. It does make him guilty, but at the same time he wants to start behaving better. Is this what Suga meant when he said he has a crush on (Y/n)? Kageyama doesn't really know. He will need time to analyze everything.

"(L/n), do you have time during our Spring Tournament?" he tried looking anywhere else but her face.

"You want me to cheer on the club? Sure thing."

"Yes." Hearing her reply made him smile. With a steady gaze he stared straight into her eyes. "Watch me play, (y/n). I'll show you a really strong serve."

(Y/n) could only smile back as she felt butterflies in her stomach. "Then we better get back to studying."

[silkling]

Could you please write a crossover of Rescue Bots and TFP? Rather than dying on the Nemesis, a critically injured Dreadwing fleas and crash lands on Griffin Rock. The Rescue Bots find him and nurse him back to health, not realizing he’s a Decepticon because his markings got scratched up in the fight. Dreadwing wakes up while the Rescue Bots are trying to contact Team Prime, but can’t since, unbeknownst to them, they’re all on Cybertron, fighting the Cons for the Omega Keys and Omega Lock.

So, this one turned out to be much, much longer than I thought. So long, in fact, that I had to divide it into three posts. The second post will be linked at the bottom of this one, and the third will be linked at the bottom of the second. Dear god, apparently I had a lot of more thoughts about Rescue Bots than even I was aware of. Oh well. Either way, I hope everyone enjoys! (FYI: most prompt fills will not be this long. This one was just so long cause I have many emotions and ideas about this scenario.)

———————————————————————————————————

Dreadwing felt the betrayal of Lord Megatron as surely as if it were just as physical a wound as the hole blown through his chest. He had heard the weapon powering up, and his war-forged battle instincts had had him diving to the side just as the fusion canon had fired. It has still torn though his chest, but rather than destroy his spark chamber the blast had torn a hole straight through the right side of his chest near his shoulder. He lived yet, but if he could not escape the Nemesis that would not be the case for much longer.

He had served Lord Megatron with loyalty and honor for millennia, ever since he and his brother had joined the Decepticons after Vos had fallen. Dreadwing had sold his very spark to the Unmaker to act on the wishes and orders of his leader, and this is what his loyalty had earned him? Megatron attempting to offline him, and protecting the mech who had desecrated his brother? The same mech who had, countless times before, betrayed Megatron himself? Dreadwing could scarcely understand it. Why would Megatron spare Starscream, who had given the warlord no true loyalty, when Dreadwing himself had been nothing but loyal? Is this what his loyalty bought him, among the Decepticons? Dishonorably killed solely for attempting to avenge his brother by killing a traitorous coward?

If so, he wanted nothing to do with it.

He dragged himself down the halls, finally making it to the flight deck, and looked down to see the ship flying above the ocean. Rather than attempt a proper take off, he simply pitched his body forward off the edge and allowed himself to fall. As he neared the water, he forced a transformation, ignoring the agony of the action, and his engine roared to life. Lucid thought slipped away, then, as baser survival coding took over and guided him away from the warship, away from danger, away from what would have been his death.

Only one thing was certain, now.

In attacking Dreadwing to protect Starscream, Megatron had lost the loyalty of his most devoted frontline warrior.

Dreadwing simply refused to follow a mech who would protect the one who desecrated his brother.

And so, survival protocols overriding every other thought or higher system, the large Seeker allowed his higher processor functions to shut off. His mind quieted to blissful silence. Instinct alone drove him forward, flying towards a destination even he did not know. He could only hope it would be somewhere safe.

——————————

Blades didn’t know what he was expecting when he went on a walk along the beach, but it most certainly wasn’t a large Cybertronian lying in in the sand, looking like he’d crashed landed and resting lifeless on patch of sand soaked with energon. Technically, the copter wasn’t even supposed to be out here, as Sigma-17 had to maintain their cover, but everything at the firehouse had just been several kinds of too much that morning, so he had, for once, flown off on his own and landed on a beach he knew no humans ever really came to, intent to just take a walk and clear his head.

Except, upon coming around a bend, he’d found the aforementioned Cybertronian. For a moment, he’d simply frozen, but then the instinct ingrained by his training kicked in and he sprung into action. See, Blades was a trained and licensed triage medic. He couldn’t perform complex surgeries or anything on the level of a proper medic, but in the Rescue Academy on Cybertron he’d taken the courses for field level medical aid so that, if he’d ever run into someone during a rescue who’d been hurt, he could treat them and keep them alive until they could get to a medical facility. The training g had been fun, especially when he’d studied with-

He shook his head roughly before that thought could complete itself. He didn’t want to think about the time….Before. It hurt, remembering what and who he’d lost during his millennia of stasis. Before he could fall back into grief, training snapped back into place and his processor quieted. He knelt next to the fallen Cybertronian, noting that they were a Seeker frame, and carefully turned the bot over. His next thought was an observation that the bot was a mech, and that the energon soaking into the sand under his frame was spilling from a large hole torn straight through his chest. That meant the first thing he needed to do was seal the leaking lines to keep him from losing more energon. After that, he could call Heatwave. He didn’t have the skills to patch this wound up fully. Once he’d made sure this mech wouldn’t die here and now, he would need to get him to proper care. One of the stasis pods would certainly help, though if they wanted the wound healed fully he’d need to be in the pod for a while. The other alternative was contacting Optimus. Blades knew the Prime had a proper medic on his team, which might be the better option.

As his processor raced, trying to think of a plan, his hands worked on autopilot. He slipped the tools he needed from his subspace, cleaning and removing grime where it was needed to prevent infection, removing bits of sand and stone from the wound, and using a small welder to seal off the free-flowing energon lines. He covered loose, sparking wires and circuits, , rerouting a few of them in places where it was needed. Finally, after many long minutes, he finished and sat back on his heels.

It was then the helicopter realized his comm. was pinging with an alert for an incoming message, and had been for quite some time. In fact, it seemed he’d missed several messages. From Heatwave, Chase, Boulder, Dani, the Chief, Cody…Pit, even Graham had sent him a message. Embarrassment and guilt settled heavy in his chest, and he lifted his hand to his audial to accept the current call. As soon as his comm. clicked to life, Dani’s voice was coming through it.

“Blades! Finally! Where are you? We’ve all been worried sick, you know.” his partner scolded. Blades couldn’t help the small smile that twisted his lips upwards. It was nice knowing she cared. He loved Dani dearly. She was family, after all. “You know you’re not supposed to even be out of the firehouse on your own, you idiot bot!” she continued, her voice holding an undercurrent of worry despite the insult. Blades didn’t take it personally. “What if someone had seen you? You need to-“

And now that was enough. “Dani.” he interrupted her, his voice uncharacteristically serious. “I’m sorry for ignoring you and everyone else, but right now there’s a bigger emergency than me risking our cover. I found an inured bot on that small beach behind the mountain. You know, the one no one likes to go to because the hike is too long? He’s in a really bad way. I have triage training, and I’ve patched him up, but he needs either a stasis pod or a proper medic, as close to immediately as possible.”

There was silence on the other end, before-

“Alright. I’ll tell everyone to come to your location. I’m with Dad and Chase right now. We all split up to look for you, but we’ll meet you there. Don’t move, and keep the bot alive.” Dani instructed. Despite himself, Blades was smiling again. Yes, he really did love Dani. She knew when it was time to get serious. He had a feeling he’d be forgiven for his blunder today, given the circumstances.

“Will do. I’ll see you soon.”

“Just hang tight, partner. And stay out of trouble.”

“You too.” he chirped, hands still working over the bot to patch up his more minor wounds now that the life-threatening one was dealt with. “And Dani?”

“Yeah, Blades?”

“I’m sorry for worrying you.”

There was a beat of silence, and then her voice came though, softer and fonder.

“Don’t worry about it. You did the right thing.”

Then the comm. line cut off, and Blades was left alone to in the silence. He let his processor drift, kneeling in the energon soaked sand as he worked on saving the life of a bot whose name he didn’t even know.

——————————

Chase was worried. He knew Blades was more capable than the others thought he was, but that didn’t stop him from worrying. He hadn’t been surprised when the copter bot had left the firehouse that morning. He’d seen the way he had held his rotors tight to his spinal strut, seen the way he’d fidgeted around the others, seen the way his optics had slipped and gone dull and distant. He knew today was not a good day for Blades, so his disappearance had not been a surprise. He’d been mildly concerned, simply because he did not know if Blades would be able to avoid being seen in his more distracted state, but he hadn’t been too worried. Still, when Heatwave had insisted on going to track down their rogue teammate, he hadn’t protested. He’d even offered to let Dani ride with him and the Chief to make things simpler.

But then Blades had finally picked up Dani’s comm. and that was when he started to worry. A strange bot, found injured on Griffin Rock? It raised many questions. Where had they come from? Who where they? How had they been injured? Chase wasn’t worried that the bot would die. He knew Blades had triage training, so he was confident his teammate would be able to keep his unexpected patient alive. Even so, this new development raised many questions that Chase did not have the answers to, and that was what worried him. There were not many Cybertronians on Earth, he knew. Aside from Sigma-17, there was Team Prime, and….the Decepticons. As far as Chase was aware, and he admittedly did not know as much as he would like, there were no unaligned bots on the planet.

Which meant this newcomer was either one of Prime’s team, a Decepticon, or he had crash landed on the island from space and wasn’t attached to either faction. It would be easy enough to confirm; they simply had to contact Prime and ask if he was missing a teammate, and if not ask if he recognized the bot in question. If this stranger was a neutral party or an Autobot, Chase knew there would be nothing to worry about. But if they were a Decepticon…well, that was the root of the police bot’s concerns. Sigma-17 was a rescue team. They knew rudimentary combat skills, enough to defend themselves or those they were rescuing in an emergency, but they were non-combatants. By the standards of the War, his team would be classified as civilians. If this new Cybertronian was a Decepticon…Chase wasn’t sure they’d be able to protect Griffin Rock, this time. He wasn’t sure they’d even be able to protect themselves.

Before he could slip even further into his own processor, they arrived at the coordinates Blades had sent. His snapped into focus, his doors popping open to allow his passengers out, and then he was transforming and walking over to where he could see Blades. As he approached his friend, he heard Boulder and Heatwave pull up behind him and transform. Blades looked up from his work when his three teammates stopped next to him, and Chase was mildly disconcerted to see the amount of energon soaking the sand and coating the copter’s hands.

“Blades, what happened?” Heatwave demanded, voice rough.

“I don’t know.” he shrugged helplessly. “I came out here for some space and to take a walk, cause I know this beach is practically abandoned, and I just found him like this.”

Indeed, this close, Chase could see that the mystery bot was in fact a mech. That answered one question, but none of the others. How irritating. It was also making him very nervous and queasy to see just how badly injured the very, very large bot was. Boulder too, seemed to feel ill at the sight of such horrible wounds and so much energon. Distantly, Chase noted that the bot might be even bigger than High Tide. He had no idea how they were supposed to get him back to the firehouse.

Heatave made a frustrated noise, clearly displeased with the lack of information though he knew Blades was not to blame. “Well can you tell how he got so injured?”

“A weapon of some sort, though not one I’ve ever seen the damage of before.” Blades said, frowning. His processor was clearly working hard, trying to turn over the facts he knew to figure out the bigger picture. “There’s also signs of older damage. I can’t be 100% sure, but I think this bot is, or maybe was, involved in the War.”

Heatwave paused, seeming more wary with this new information. “…can you tell which side?”

“No. Any faction identifier or badge has been destroyed or scraped off like most of his paint. I can only just figure out what his colors are supposed to be, and even them only barely.”

Chase could tell that Heatwave was annoyed, but the fire truck only grumbled his curses under his breath before sighing. “Alright. What do we need to do?”

Blades startled, looking surprised. “You’re asking me?”

“Of course.” Chase cut in before Heatwave could snap something rude and further stress the already clearly frazzled helicopter. “You are the triage medic here. Protocol dictates that, in the absence of a full medic, any medical decisions would fall to the next available medical expert. In this case, that would be you.”

Blades blinked a few times, before shaking himself and sitting up straighter. “Like I said earlier, he needs a stasis pod. Badly. I don’t have the ability to fix him completely, my training only covered keeping patients alive until they could get to someone who could repair them fully. The only one on planet I know who might be able to help is Optimus’s medic. He can also heal completely in one of our stasis pods, but it would take longer than just asking Optimus for help.”

Heatwave grunted. “Got it. He needs a stasis pod now, and a medic later. We can do that.”

That seemed to be enough to startle Boulder into awareness, and the bulldozer jumped before nodding and turning to Heatwave. “Graham and I can figure out a way to transport him safely. Though we’ll need your help, Blades. You have a better understanding of his condition than us.”

The copter nodded, and Chase let that be his que to retreat to back to where the humans were waiting. Apparently, they didn’t want to get too close in case their presence caused an issue with the unknown bot’s care.

“Well?” Chief asked. “How’s our newest guest?

“Unwell.” Chase said succinctly. “He is severely injured and appears to be involved in the War in some fashion, though it is impossible to tell for which side. We are going to transport him to the firehouse in order to put him into a stasis pod so that he may heal. Graham, I believe Boulder requires your assistance in that respect.” he said, directing the last part to the engineer.

Graham nodded, making no protest as he jogged forward towards his partner, Boulder already turning and crouching to begin discussing plans. Dani followed him quickly, though she split from his path to join Blades, clambering up onto his leg and patting his canopy as she shot him a reassuring smile.

It was here that Kade made his own opinion known. “Hey hey hey, let’s slow down!” he protested. “You just said you don’t know what side this guy’s on, and you want to bring him back home? We can’t do that! Why can’t Blades just fix him here and we can send him on his way?”

Chase tilted his head. “Blades is a licensed triage medic. He does not have the training necessary to fully repair him. Besides, even if he did, I do not believe it would be wise to simply ‘send him on his way’, and you said. If he truly is a Decepticon, then doing so would risk leading the entirety of the Decepticon army right here to Griffin Rock.”

Kade froze, seeming suddenly queasy. “Oh.”

Chief sighed. “Fair point, partner. I agree we can’t just leave him or let him die. It wouldn’t be right, even if he isn’t on our side. But for safety’s sake, would it be possible to keep him unconscious until we can confirm his identity with Optimus?”

Chase nodded. “Indeed, Chief. I believe that is the current plan. As soon as he is safely in a stasis pod, we will attempt to contact Optimus. With luck, we can have this matter sorted by the end of today.”

“Good.” Chief smiled. “Then let’s get to work.”

“Agreed.”

Chase returned to his team, Chief and Kade following at his heel, to find they had come up with a plan to transport the unknown Cybertronian. Working together, the rescue team was able to get the large flight-frame settled into a make-shift trailer the engineer duo had thrown together, and after hitching it to Boulder’s vehicle mode the whole group made their way to the firehouse using the tunnels in order to avoid being seen. Barring Blades, of course, who instead flew straight to base with Dani in order to prepare a stasis pod.

By the time Chase and the others arrived, the pod was set up and open to admit the unknown mech. It took all four of Sigma-17 working together to lift him into it, but then the glass door was sliding shut and frost soon hid the bot from view as the stasis function of the pod took affect. Now, all that was left was for Blades to clean himself up, and for Heatwave to contact Optimus about their guest.

Chase just hoped this development didn’t come back to bite them.

——————————

Dreadwing woke to the hiss of an unfamiliar system disengaging and onlined his optics to see icy mist billowing to the floor as a glass door slid up from in front of him. A stasis pod? That was odd. The Nemesis had no stasis pods and he knew the Autobots did not have the means to maintain or build one either. He was also not aware there were any other Cybertronians on the planet. So where was he, and how had he gotten into a stasis pod? The last thing he remembered was fleeing the Nemesis, although….he did have very vague, hazy memories of a crash. Had he been discovered and saved before he could offline? If so, he would have to thank his unexpected savior. Unless, of course, it was an Autobot and he had only been saved so he could be locked away. If that was the case, a bot was going to die here today and it would not be him.

The stasis pod fully disengaged from him, and he was able to step out and onto the floor. He glanced down at himself, humming idly. It seemed that he had been fully repaired either before or while in the pod. That was good for him. He looked around, frowning at his odd surroundings. The location he was in had medical supplies, but was clearly no full medical bay. Perhaps it was only set up for emergencies, then? His wings twitched when he picked up the sound of pede steps beyond the doorway, and his gaze turned towards the sound. After a moment, he realized whoever it was wasn’t coming towards him, but rather they seemed to be…pacing? Yes, that is what it sounded like. Curiosity piqued, Dreadwing strode towards the door, making sure his own steps were quiet so as not to alert the other to his presence. He stepped though, looking around…and his optics blew wide.

It was a youngling. A small, orange and white helicopter bot was pacing back and forth in tight circles in the center of the room. Dreadwing was willing to bet that this little flyer was even younger than the Autobot scout. As the mechling turned to pace in another circle, the Seeker caught sight of the emblem on his chest. At first, he saw only a badge similar to the Autobot brand and his frame began to stiffen. Then the rest of the badge processed in his mind and his vents froze.

The Rescue Bot insignia.

This tiny little flying mechling was a Rescue Bot. But how? Megatron had seen to the destruction of the Rescue Bot headquarters in the early days of the war, and had sent his soldiers to systematically hunt down and offline any who had survived the initial attack or had not been present during it. Dreadwing and his brother had joined the Decepticons after massacre, but it was one the only acts the Decepticons had committed that they had wholly disapproved off. The Rescue Bots had been unaffiliated with any faction. They took an oath of neutrality, a vow to save any and every life they could regardless who who or what that life was. Megatron had wanted them gone because he’d wanted to make a statement, but also because he wanted to deny the Autobots any potential allies or any aid that the Rescue Bots would have given them.

It had been a great loss, and had been one of the reasons Dreadwing had initially wished to avoid choosing one side or the other. The Decepticons, in his mind, took things too far. The Autobots, while more restrained, had initially risen from the regime in which he and his brother had suffered under. But then….Vos had fallen, and word had spread that his city’s destruction had been the doing of the Autobots. He and Skyquake had been forced to pick a side, then. He’d gotten over his hesitance at the Decepticon methods and given Lord Megatron his undying loyalty. And now…he was here, betrayed by the one who he as sworn himself to, watching a youngling Rescue Bot pace in nervous circles. It was something that should have been impossible.

Suddenly, the mechling froze, and wide amber optics turned to him. Idly, Dreadwing realized he must have made some noise, and then the little copter was yelping and scrabbling back. He paused, then hurried forward, his hands fluttering as if unsure what to do. Before the little one got too close, Dreadwing locked his own sharp, red optics onto him, and the bot froze in place with a startled yip.

For a long moment, there was only silent staring.

——————————

Blades was pacing. There wasn’t much else he could do. The day they had brought back the large Seeker, Heatwave had contacted Optimus. Only, the Prime had very quickly shut him down, explaining they were busy with an issue of “upmost importance” and that he would return their contact when he was able to. That had been three weeks ago, and he hadn’t called back. The Seeker was still in stasis, and Heatwave was once against attempting to make contact, for the 15th day in a row. Chase and the Chief were on patrol, and Boulder and the other humans were at Blossom Vale, having a picnic. Blades had opted to remain behind, wanting to keep an eye on the Seeker.

In the time since finding the large mech, Blades had done some research. He’d had to dig around the Sigma’s files, and dig through the files of the computer that connected them to Optimus, as well as dig through the various data-pads that had been left to them by High Tide and Optimus. It wasn’t much, but it was enough that he’d been able to piece together information about the War that the Prime hadn’t been telling them. Now, Blades understood why the War had started. The civil unrest had been a thing even before Sigma-17 had been formed, when he was still in the early days of training, it had been mild, then, but it had been there. So he wasn’t surprised that it had grown worse, especially if the root causes of the unrest hadn’t ever been addressed.

He also knew, from the information he’d dug up in his search, that after the fall of Vos, most Seekers had joined the Decepticons. Which meant that his patient was, in all likelihood, a Decepticon himself. He wasn’t sure how to feel about that. But he hadn’t told the others his suspicions. Mostly because…something about the situation was odd. Optimus didn’t strike him as the type of mech who would inflict or approve of that type of wound being inflicted on a mech. So unless he had someone on his team who was excessively violent and he couldn’t control, Blades didn’t see that wound coming from the Autobots. Which meant it had come from the Decepticons. Of course, that only raised more questions. Namely, why would they do that to one of their own, if the mech really was a ‘Con? He wanted to get answers before he shared his suspicions. He didn’t want to condemn the Seeker to anything bad if he was wrong.

Unfortunately, that hadn’t been all he had learned, in the past few weeks. In one of the data pads High Tide had left about the early days of the war, there had been a mention of the “end of the Rescue Force”. It had just been a mention, a reference to an event that was probably detailed in a separate data pad. But he hadn’t ever found that separate data pad. And when he remembered What Optimus had said, when he’d first found them..”

“I was not aware Rescue Teams were…still active.”

He’d said it slowly, haltingly, as if choosing the words carefully. He’d paused before saying the last part too. At the time, Blades hadn’t thought much of it. But with the information about the War Optimus had allowed them to have, and the mention of the “end of the Rescue Force” in that one data pad, well…Blades was starting to think that “active” had not been the word that the Prime had actually meant. Something had happened, something he didn’t have enough information to figure out yet, but the faint picture he was starting to get from the pieces of information he did have wasn’t one he liked. It was another reason he was hesitant to share what he suspected about the Seeker. Optimus was keeping vital information from Sigma-17. He didn’t care if the Prime didn’t want them fighting in the War. He agreed that it was a bad idea. But he was withholding information that Blades suspected his team would very much want, and they didn’t even know it.

So here he was, pacing restlessly as his processor turned over the information he got, unsure how or even if he should share it. Would his team even believe him? He doubted they would. He knew they thought he was silly and couldn’t understand complex ideas, but that was far from the truth. After all, of all the Rescue Bots he had the greatest understanding of human nature and culture. His understanding wasn’t always 100% accurate, and just because he understand the what didn’t mean he understand the why, but he still understood more than any of the others. And sure, he applied most of his ability to learn new information to pop culture rather than the things the others might consider more “worthwhile”, but that was only because pop culture was more fun. Plus, pop culture was where humanity really displayed they way they ticked. Did it really make him that much of an idiot if all that was the case?

He was startled from his spiraling thoughts by a sound from the direction of the make-shift medical bay. The copter glanced in that direction, thinking it was one of his teammates, only to yelp and leap back upon seeing the Seeker. He’d known the other bot was large, but seeing him awake and up just confirmed how large. The red optics too, made discomfort curl in Blade’s tanks. The data-pads had suggested that red optics were typical of Decepticons, though they shouldn’t be used as an identifier of such. Even so, it was another tick in favor of his theory. Then the scene caught up to him, and medical training overrode his temporary moment of panic.

This bot wasn’t supposed to be up yet. In fact, even if he had been fully healed by the pods it was supposed to keep him under until Optimus could arrive. Except….Blades must have put in the settings wrong. He was so used to setting the stasis pods to release once the healing process was complete that he must have input that setting without realizing it. Which…presented a problem. Is this mech was hostile, he didn’t think his team could handle it. Those thoughts circled in the back of his processor as he directed the bulk of his worry towards making sure his patient was alright. His hands flapped awkwardly as he approached the larger flyer, ready to skim over his frame to check out his condition, when piercing red optics locked onto him. He froze with a high pitched squeak, his own optics blown wide as that gaze pinned him in place.

For a long moment, the two Cybertronians merely stared at each other.

Then Blades, getting increasingly nervous, broke the silence. “Are you okay?” he asked, curling and tucking his hands against his canopy. “The stasis pod should have healed you completely, but you were hurt pretty bad. Even most of your paint was gone, though it looks like your color nanintes were able to fix that while you were healing.”

Indeed, the mech standing in front of him was now in full color, his purple and yellow paint bold and bright on his frame. It did seem, however, that he was still missing a faction brand. If he’d ever had one, of course, though the copter strongly suspected he did.

The Seeker seemed put off for a moment, as if he didn’t know why Blades was worried. “I am well.” he said carefully. “Are you the one who repaired me?”

“Well, sort of?” Blades’s rotors fluttered against his back. “I’m a triage medic, so I couldn’t fix you completely, but I kept you online until my team and I could get you into a pod.”

The Seeker narrowed his eyes. “Team?” he repeated, obviously suspicious.

Blades squeaked again, shoulders hunching. “We’re Rescue Bots.” he gestured at his insignia before his hands tucked back against his canopy. “Team Sigma-17. I’m Blades.”

The Seeker was silent for a long moment. “You may call me Dreadwing.” he said slowly. His gaze was still piercing.

Blades nodded, then took a few steps forward, and when Dreadwing made no move to stop him, he closed the gap between them. “Do you mind if I scan you over one last time? I just want to be sure all your systems are in order.”

The Seeker bowed his helm, and Blades lifted his hands to skim over plating, using his built in scanning systems he’d gotten in his triage training to check his patient over. Everything was coming back fine, but with a wound as serious as his had been Blades away taking no chances.

“You are a Rescue Bot.” Dreadwing spoke. His voice was low, and there was an odd note to it.

“Yep. Me, Boulder, Chase, and Heatwave. We crashed here a while ago and Prime stationed us on this island to act as a rescue team for the locals.” he explained distractedly.

Dreadwing made a soft hum. “Prime knows you are here? Are you Autobots, then?”

Blades frowned. “He knows. He visits, sometimes, but not often. We haven’t been able to contact him lately though.” He was too focused on his task to think about whether he should actually,be answering so freely. The second question gave him pause, though. “No? At least, not really? We’re a Rescue Team. Rescue Bots take oaths off non-affiliation. We can’t side with any particular group or individual since our job is to help any bot or being that needs it.” He was reading over the results of his scans, mouth turned down. “We’re more closely tied to the Autobots right now, but that mostly because we don’t know much of what happened with the war. We were in stasis until we crashed.” He let the readings flicker away, and froze when he realized how much he’d shared. “Uhhh….”

Dreadwing only snorted, actually looking fairly amused. “Yes, I think it is quite clear now that you are no warrior, little youngling.” he rumbled. His expression darkened. “I understand why Prime stationed you here, out of sight. Megatron would see you hunted and slaughtered if he knew a Rescue Team still functioned.”

This made Blades freeze, and as he recalled Optimus’s first words to them, and that data pad, dread began to build in his spark. “What?” he asked weakly.

Dreadwing stared. “You were not told?” he sounded…angry. “That is foolish. It is not a pleasant tale, but you should have been told if only to ensure you understand the importance of your existence remaining secret.”

Blades swallowed. “Optimus doesn’t really tell us much of anything about the War, and the data pads he leaves only really cover the basic and important bits, not the details.” he whispered. “Does…does Megatron wanting my team offlined have anything to do with the “end of the Rescue Force”? I read about it in one of the data pads, but it was just a mention. I couldn’t find any details other than that one phrase.”

Dreadwing’s gaze was solemn as the little bot lifted his optics to meet it. “Yes.” he said bluntly. “In the early days of the War, Megatron grew angry that the Rescue Bots aligned with no faction, and he wanted to deprive the Autobots of any who might aid or help them. He ordered the destruction of the Rescue Force. The Headquarters was destroyed, and all Rescue Bots present were massacred. Any who survived, and any who had not been present in the initial attack, were systematically hunted and slain.”

Blades’s knees felt weak. He pressed his hands to Dreadwing’s chest to steady himself, grateful that the larger flyer didn’t protest it. His rotors rattled madly against his back with his distress, and his optics were blown wide.

“But that would mean…”

“You and your team are the last Rescue Bots in existence. All the others are offline and have been for many, many millennia.”

The copter’s knees gave out, and Dreadwing was quick to grasp his frame to keep him from hitting the ground. A sharp keen left Blades’s vocalizer, and the Seeker blessedly said nothing and made no moves to push as the youngling processed the new information.

It was, of course, that moment that the others chose to return.

——————————

Part 2