#despite the fact that you're still alive & have stayed alive in order to keep the master from assuming the sash. uh huh.

[corallapis]

don't know if i trust ol grandaddy borusa's relaying of events 🤨

[scariusaquarius]

rehab. 22.

Avenger! Bucky Barnes x Winter Soldier! Fem! Reader

Summary: While on a mission to find any more possible super soldiers that were a part of the Winter Soldier program, Steve and Bucky make a discovery in an abandoned HYDRA base that was cleared out a few years prior to their mission. They discover the Reader, a long-forgotten soldier that was still asleep within a functioning cryostasis pod; still awaiting orders. While Bucky isn't happy about it, he is put up to the challenge of helping to rehabilitate the soldier in Wakanda where she may be able to become a person again.

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A/n: hnnn like i said, hated the last chapter, so i'm hoping that this one is much better rip so sorry about that!! I really wasn't sure how I wanted last chapter to go smh. Also, if you enjoy my work, please consider buying me a coffee! If you would prefer to read Rehab on Archive, you may do so right HERE!

This is an au where Bucky joined the avengers but still rehabilitated in Wakanda (sometime before Infinity War [canon divergent cause NOPE]). I am NOT fluent in Russian, so I did use google translate cause I couldn't find a good translator that I trusted. If anything is wrong, PLEASE let me know!! Also, I tried to list as many warnings as possible so you know what the story will contain as chapters are posted. Stay safe!

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Genre: Slowburn, Enemies to Lovers/Friends to Lovers, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Fluff, Humor, Drama, Dark Content Rated: Explicit Warning: Angst, Dark Content: Graphic Depictions of Sexual Assault, Blood and Gore, Mentions of Manipulation, Kidnapping, Canon-Typical Violence, Body Horror, Nonconsensual Body Modification/Scarring, Emotional and Physical Abuse, Mentions of Murder, Mentions of Suicidal Thoughts/Ideation, Graphic Depictions of Human Remains, Mentions of Sexual Coercion/Manipulation, Death, Misuse of Drugs/Forced Drugging, Self-Harm (Graphic Depictions and Mentions), Nightmares

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Author: ScariusAquarius

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rehab masterlist. chapter 18 / chapter 19 / chapter 20 / chapter 21

His mind was quiet. For the first time in a long time, Bucky Barnes' mind was quiet. Despite the fact that he knew Wanda had something do with the silence and there was a part of him that was actually enjoying the silence, there was another part of him that was angry.

Bucky didn't like not having control over his own mind and body.

While Wanda was purposefully keeping him calm, there was an untouched part of his mind that was extremely upset at the loss of control. To Bucky, it didn't feel any different than when he was trapped in his mind as the Winter Soldier during the moments he was present. When he was remembering.

His body was stiff as he sat near Rollins, and though Bucky wanted nothing more than to lunge and strangle the man, his body would not respond. It was like pushing against a wall, and no matter how much force he exerted and no matter how much he yelled in anger within his head, Bucky's body just wouldn't respond. Wanda was giving him a sympathetic look, stating softly to him within his mind.

"I'm sorry to do this, James, but we need Rollins alive."

It was strange to hear her voice in his mind though her lips never moved, and Bucky glanced at her, his eyebrow twitching with annoyance. Taking a leap, Bucky began to think.

"What makes you think I'm not in control of myself? You're just like everyone else...always believing that I'm going to revert back to who I was before."

He knew that he was being petty; his words accusatory and sharp with the intention of hurting, but Wanda didn't seem to react. The only inclination of any response was a subtle flash of shame that flickered within her glowing eyes before Wanda turned away from him.

"I do not think that for a second. We were all worried that you were going to breakdown at the revelation of the Winter Soldier having a part of Project Achilles."

The words made his chest cave in, and Bucky clenched his fingers. he hissed his thoughts, feeling as though he was back in a cage where control was an illusion; baring his teeth and tail between his legs as he became defensive.

"That's my choice to make. You don't get to choose how I feel."

His words seem to strike a cord in Wanda, and she glanced back at him, her gaze soft as she whispered.

"I know, and I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to hurt you."

Even through the twinges of betrayal that tickled at his mind; the anxiety and the anger at being forced to relinquish his control over his own mind and body, Bucky understood and knew that Wanda was being honest. He knew that Wanda just wanted to protect him, but Bucky couldn't turn a blind-eye to being made a prisoner in his own mind again.

"I didn't need your help. This is something that I have to live with...to take responsibility for. I did this to (Y/n)."

His fingers were clenching harder, the knuckles on his flesh-hand taut and shaking slightly. Bucky's muscles were tight and uncomfortable, and Wanda sighed slightly.

"Believe me, you will get your time with this vile man."

Bucky wanted to laugh. As if that was ever a question. Getting his alone time with Rollins wasn't just about what he had done to (Y/n)...it was about what Rollins had done to him as well. The hours of torture, of taunts...of watching as Rumlow took his time with him....smiling all the while.

Bucky could feel his fingers threading through his hair, pulling painfully and forcing his head up as lips brushed against his ear; hot and foreboding as the voice whispered promises of obedience and control. The sting was present; the burning the only thing that Bucky could comprehend as cruel taunts and encouragements echoed around the room. They were watching. Just standing and watching.

Why did they hate him? Why did they treat him like this? All the asset wanted was to please and perform well...to fulfill his duty as the Fist of HYDRA. Why did force him to his knees, pulling his hair, forcing his mouth open-

Bucky was suddenly jerked out of his memory, and his gaze flicked to Wanda, who looked horrified. Guilt flooded his body, shame and embarrassment making Bucky cower just the slightest as he attempted to apologize for what Wanda had just witnessed.

"I...I'm sorry."

"No, do not apologize...what they did to you...what they did to all of us...it will never truly leave. We may forget, but our bodies; our feelings...they will always remember. But they will never...ever...do that again as long as we are here with you, James."

Her reassurance didn't go unappreciated, but the damage had already been done. Bucky couldn't look at her; couldn't dare to see the expression that she wore upon her face. Bucky could feel control slipping back to him, the red glow over his body disappearing, and Bucky stood up, immediately leaving to find a quiet spot in the back of the quinjet. Sitting down by himself, he rested his head in his hands and could feel the tears coming to his eyes. As the emotional turmoil began to boil over, Bucky became lost in his thoughts.

No, this wasn't just about what Rollins did to (Y/n). While Bucky did care about the woman, there was still unspoken baggage that Bucky hadn't been able to work through since his time in Wakanda. There was no way to justify the cruel methods Brock Rumlow and his previous Handlers before him had enacted upon Bucky when he would fail, lash out, underperform, or when they just felt like it.

Yes, Bucky knew exactly what (Y/n) was going through...but the knowledge that even he had a hand in her inability to escape from HYDRA had Bucky in shambles.

She's got you to make sure that she doesn't fall back into that place.

But how can Bucky be there for her now and help her out of that familiar darkness when he helped put her there? All that talk of him having the only right to help was bullshit; nullified by his actions. Besides, when (Y/n) began to remember...why would she ever want his help then? When she remembered, Bucky was sure that she would curse him, hate him, make him remember that no matter what he did, HYDRA would always follow him.

You will always be HYDRA. Even if you escape, you will miss your time here. It will call you home whether you like it or not.

Bucky should have known. He should have known that he was connected to her somehow given the timeline. Bucky bit his lip, stifling his sobs as he held his hands up to his mouth, clenching his jaw so hard that he was sure he was going to break his teeth.

What did he not remember about her?

Bucky swallowed thickly, and when he was interrupted by Wanda informing him about their arrival back to Wakanda, he couldn't help but to look at the woman and beg her quietly.

"Please make me remember...what did I do? What did I do to her?"

Wanda's face fell, and she shook her head gently, responding quietly.

"I can't make you remember...that's not my place, and you know that."

Bucky knew he wasn't thinking rationally. He knew that his request wouldn't have been able to be honored, but it didn't make him any less upset. Bucky let his head fall into his hands again, and he whispered softly.

"What am I supposed to do now?"

Wanda pursed her lips, staring Bucky down before she came to stand near him, placing her hand against his shoulder and making him look up at her, his blue eyes red and puffy and nostrils flaring as his lip trembled.

"You face it. What's done is done, and though there is nothing that you can do to change the past, you can change the future. You are not that man anymore, James...and I think (Y/n) will understand that when the time comes. Just give it time. It is not going to be easy...but we are all here for you....for you both. Neither of you have to do this alone."

She then sighed and turned away, adding gently.

"The only thing that you can do is ensure that this never...ever happens again to anyone."

Her words were slightly vague, but Bucky could tell what she was trying to say. The woman stood up, her eyes glowing brighter before she stated.

"I didn't tell you this, but they're planning on moving Rollins to a secure part of the kingdom...and (Y/n) is upset about your absence."

Bucky was surprised, asking as his eyes fluttered just the slightest as he cleared the tears from his eyes.

"She's...upset that I left?"

"She wasn't told about the mission, so she was under the impression that you were retrieving Rollins to return her back to HYDRA. I think she needs to hear it from you that it wasn't the plan."

Bucky took a moment before he shook his head, stating quietly.

"I don't know if I can face her...not after knowing that I had a hand in this...in her."

Wanda was quiet before she comforted gently before turning to leave.

"You don't have to right now...but think about it."

Her exit was quiet; her feet never touching the ground, and Bucky, though feeling slightly better, still felt the bile sitting at the back of his throat. Wiping his eyes and face, Bucky took a calming deep breath before he stood and walked out of the quinjet. While he wasn't surprised to see Steve waiting for him, Bucky wasn't sure if he liked the furious look within his eyes.

Bucky's steps were slow and cautious, and Steve asked him, the anger within his eyes lessening just the slightest as he regarded his friend.

"How are you holding up?"

Bucky gave Steve an annoyed look, shrugging his shoulders.

"As good as I can with knowing that I helped with all of this."

Steve looked at Bucky with a sad yet guilty expression, and Bucky honed in on it immediately. Before he could ask what was going on, however, Steve informed him gently.

"I’ve been thinking… maybe it’s best if you take a step back from helping with (Y/n)'s rehabilitation program. Not because of what happened—but because I can see this is tearing you up, Buck"

There it was again. People trying to tell him how he should feel; trying to control his actions and what he needs to do. Bucky couldn't help but to become upset, giving Steve a glare.

"You think I can't handle it."

Steve was hesitant, shaking his head as he raised his hands in surrender.

"That's not what I'm saying, Bucky."

Bucky couldn't help but to snap, his voice raising just the slightest as he gestured wildly with his hand.

"That's what it sounds like. I have to face this, Steve. I have to face and deal with the fact that I helped put her in this position...that I killed her mom just like I killed Tony's parents...like I've killed everyone else."

Bucky took a breath, his hands trembling and chest tight as the guilt began to eat him alive.

"You know what sucks the most? Out of every single one that I remember...I can't remember her....what I did...what I always do."

Bucky began to walk away, and Steve turned to look at him wistfully and with exasperation. Calling Bucky's name, the man didn't even turn towards Steve, and Steve couldn't help but to sigh and place his hands on his hips. Natasha's voice made Steve turn to her, his gaze sad and upset.

"He's gonna need time, Steve. This wasn't great news for him to hear, you know."

Natasha was leaning against the wall, her arms crossed as she regarded Steve with an expressionless face; her eyes betraying her worry. Steve shook his head, crossing his arms and running a hand over his face.

"I know. I just...I wish he knew that he didn't have to go through this alone."

Natasha was quiet for a moment before she observed.

"You tend to want to insert yourself into his problems a lot. Even if you're coming from a good place, Steve, this is something that Bucky is going to have to do alone."

Steve looked conflicted, staring down at his feet for a few moments before Natasha pushed herself off of the wall to walk back inside, adding.

"Don't push him, Steve. You're just gonna make him runaway again...and he won't come back this time."

Once Steve was left by himself, his shoulders fell, and Steve became lost again; feeling as though his friend was falling through his fingers once again.

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STORY NOTES: The scene opens with Bucky's point of view. While Bucky knows that Wanda is controlling his emotions and mind and is appreciative of the silence, he also is very upset that she is doing this. Bucky makes the correlation between Wanda's mind control and being trapped in his own mind when he was the Winter Soldier. Wanda apologizes to Bucky for having to control him, and Bucky, being petty, snaps that Wanda is 'no better than everyone else' in believing that he would revert back the Winter Soldier at any given moment.

Despite his words having the intention to hurt her feelings, Wanda does not seem to react him. Instead, Wanda explains that everyone was worried about him having a breakdown because of the revelation of the Winter Soldier having a part of Project Achilles, and Bucky becomes distraught at the reminder. Bucky is firm that his feelings are his choice, but he understands that Wanda is just trying to help. Bucky further adds that this revelation is something that Bucky has to work through on his own.

Bucky begins to have a flashback about Rollins when he thinks of the man. He remembers how the man stood by and watched as Brock Rumlow sexually assaulted him for the fun of things, and Bucky is instantly horrified and ashamed when he realizes that Wanda is still able to see into his mind. Wanda, however, is understanding and reassures Bucky that HYDRA will never hurt him ever again. Bucky, however, is already spiraling. Sensing this, Wanda allows Bucky to have complete control, and Bucky immediately retreats to a quiet and empty part of the quinjet.

Bucky begins to cry, thinking about how he understands exactly what (Y/n) is going through and what we went through, but is struggling with the knowledge that he had helped HYDRA capture her before she was able to escape with Doris. Bucky suddenly remembers what Sam had told him about how (Y/n) had Bucky to make sure she 'doesn't fall back into that place,' and Bucky begins to question his authority on the ability to help her. He begins to think about the possibilities that would occur once (Y/n) finally remembers everything, and he is certain that (Y/n) will hate him.

He begins to relapse, thinking that he will never be escape HYDRA, and he struggles with the fact that he is unable to remember (Y/n) and when Wanda comes to inform him that the team has arrived back in Wakanda, Bucky begs Wanda to make him remember. Wanda, however, refuses and tells Bucky that he has to remember on his own. Bucky becomes frustrated, and Wanda adds that even though Bucky can't change the past, he can change the future. Moreover, (Y/n) has a better chance of understanding him instead of blaming him, and that neither of them are alone in this matter.

When Bucky doesn't respond, Wanda reveals that the Avengers are planning on taking Rollins to a secure part of the kingdom and that (Y/n) is upset that Bucky left for the mission. Bucky is surprised by this, and Wanda elaborates that (Y/n) wasn't told about the mission. She tells Bucky that (Y/n) is under the impression that Bucky found Rollins in order to give (Y/n) back to him, and that (Y/n) needs to hear it from Bucky that it was never the plan in the first place. Bucky refuses, stating that he isn't sure if he can face (Y/n), and Wanda reassures him that he doesn't have to, but to think about it.

After waiting a moment once Wanda leaves, Bucky finally leaves the quinjet to be greeted by Steve. Steve reveals that he thinks the best course of action is to take him off of (Y/n)'s rehabilitation program, and Bucky is offended. He accuses Steve of thinking that he can't handle it, and though Steve tries to disagree, Bucky is set in his opinion. Bucky reveals his frustration out of not being able to remember this particular incident, and Bucky walks away from Steve. Although Steve tries to call after him, Bucky ignores him, and Steve becomes upset. Natasha suddenly appears and tells Steve that he needs to give Bucky time to himself, and Steve replies that he doesn't want Bucky to do it alone.

Natasha reprimands Steve, telling him that he needs to stop trying to control Bucky, stop inserting himself where he can in Bucky's problems, and to stop pushing him. She tells him that Steve is going to make Bucky run away before she leaves back inside, leaving Steve by himself to begin thinking about his actions. End scene.

TRANSLATIONS:

None

TAGLIST: @tilldeathripsusapart @vicmc624 @mgchaser @aash3 @samfunko @seventeen-x @valckenaux @babybeeelle @sc4rrc @cjand10 @bane-y-zane @notsostrangerthing @thenameswinter99

[arieswritez]

golden boy

golden boy | yandere stepbrother!mark grayson x afab!reader

cw; DARK CONTENT!!! MDNI!! pseudo-incest, panty thief!mark, roofies, victim blaming, non-con video taping, voyeurism, rape, reader's anatomy is sexualized, forced breeding, time skip (mark is an adult & nolan never killed the guardians), mark is a sicko you've been warned

about; life was easier when mark was an only child. he wishes it would've stayed that way. (1.9k words)

a/n; an anon asked about a platonic yan sibling duo so i raise you: big pervy step bro who hates your guts but also wants to rearrange them

step brother mark who's used to being the light and joy of the grayson home. as the only child, he's spoiled beyond belief. he's spunky and cute and the graysons love him to death, constantly showering him with love and adoration.

step brother mark who gets a new sibling after villains make you an orphan. nolan finds you in the ruins and it's like he's on auto-pilot: carrying you to that secret hospital and handing you off to the doctors that rush to his aid. . but not before your tiny fist closes in his suit.

as he watches you being taken away, barely alive, something inside his chest pangs.

debbie notices nolan acting strange. he's restless and he's late for dinner, more so than usual. something's very clearly wrong. and it's not like her to grow suspicious of nolan but she does.

nolan's never given her a reason to believe his head may have been turned but for some reason, she starts to believe there might be someone else.

only to find he's been visiting you at the hospital, staying at your bedside for hours on end as you recover. you're in bad shape. doctors aren't sure how you survived. . if you even will. debbie's never seen nolan so torn over a survivor before. he's seen many things: deaths, disasters, you name it. yet, you're who's causing the sleepless nights.

of course, debbie has a kind heart and, soon, it's not just nolan who's worried. the graysons keep tabs on you. and when you come to, they’re the first thing you see.

you look confused, scared, but as nolan soothes you, you offer a meek smile and nolan finds himself feeling that same giddiness he felt when he first saw a tiny mark cradled in debbie's arms.

the graysons become your legal guardians and, suddenly, mark isn't the golden boy anymore.

you take up so much of their attention. now, christmases and birthdays all revolve around you. suddenly, marks good grades and the fact he hit a home run isn't all that impressive. mark's late for his baseball practice and games more times than he can count. . yet they never miss your dance recitals.

you got an A in an absurdly easy class and that was a cause for celebration. in the meantime, mark won a spelling bee & all he got was a 'good job'.

they treat you like you're made of glass, like you'll shatter into a million tiny pieces the second someone so much as looks at you the wrong way. mark still remembers being reprimanded whenever he said the smallest things to you. he doesn't think he's ever lived down that one orphanage joke that made you bawl. god, he was just kidding. . its not his fault you're sensitive.

soon, you're calling his parents 'mom and dad'. and worse of all, they reiterate the fact that you should be calling mark your 'big brother'.

fucking fantastic.

you are everything to them while mark is pushed aside. and it only worsens the older the two of you get. mark gets his powers - there's literally nothing more impressive than that - yet he still has to do a million and one things in order to outshine you. nothing ever works. and despite the fact that mark is - quite literally - saving lives. . your stupid birthday is still more important.

you are the light of their lives and mark bitterly remembers when they used to look at him that way, too.

you are perfect in their eyes. just like he once was.

and mark wishes you would've died in that accident, just like your parent(s).

as you start to develop a sense of self, mark gets into the habit of stealing your clothes. it's the only thing you seem to care about: the way you present yourself to the world.

they're small things at first. like a single shoe when his parents had bought you new ones yet refused to get him the ones he wanted. he'll admit it, it was petty and spiteful. but you were distressed and the graysons seemed upset you'd already misplaced your brand new - expensive - shoes.

at first, he was content with telling himself that what he was doing was solely to spite you. but that was a lie. when his kleptomania made him steal one of your shirts. . it wasn't spite that made him press the material to his nose and pump his cock until he came. no, it wasn't just spite.

all your simpering and whining, following him around like some lost puppy, that one time you asked him why he hated you so much. . it made him feel more than just hate.

he didn't know what to do with you then.

so, at first, he settled with stealing your clothes.

a couple more shirts.

a pair of shorts.

knee-highs or your favorite tights.

and finally, a pair of panties.

his favorite are a lacy pair. sheer and tiny, he recalls lifting them out of your drawer with a finger. . and thinking, seriously? what're these even meant to cover?

he's extremely sure you aren't supposed to have these~

mark is content with secretly stealing your things. he doesn't get in trouble for being mean to you anymore.

you don't think he hates you.

it's a win-win situation, really.

and mark would've been happy - he would've been fine - with the little game he's been playing. soon, the two of you would part ways for college and he'd forget all about you.

he'd forget the way you'd foolishly walk to your room in only a towel when you knew the two of you were home alone.

he'd forget the way you looked when you changed out of clothing, you never truly believed in fully closing the door, did you?

he'd forget the way your moans sounded, when you touched yourself at night, thinking everyone else was asleep. he'd forget the way he'd concentrate on hearing your pretty sounds - and it's not like he'd have to try hard, another perk of having powers.

he'd forget about how he could almost envision you: humping your fingers and biting at your lip, desperately trying to get yourself off. it was like he was in the room with you. . you were so wet he could hear the wet clicks of your cunt.

he'd forget all about you.

you, you, you.

he was sure of it.

but if it's one thing about you is that you could never just let things be.

you could never just let the graysons be a normal, happy family.

and you could never just let mark forget about you.

because the first time his parents say no to you - the very first fucking time - you don't listen.

you're just not used to it.

that stupid party you weren't supposed to go to.

that stupid party mark sneaks off to, too.

and when you see him there, you're surprised.

he pretends to be, too.

because it's not fair if only one of you was forbidden to go. no, you had to fuck it up for the both of them.

it's a good thing you're so spoiled, though. and it's even better that mark eavesdropped on the conversation you had with your friend, the one in which you planned to sneak out.

you're so fucking naive. so stupid.

you think the two of you are finally getting along when he gets you a drink and whispers, don't worry, i won't tell if you don't. and you laugh and wink at him like you'll keep his secret, drinking from whatever concoction he's prepared for you.

you were too young when your parent(s) passed and the graysons never seemed to sit you down for the talk. . or maybe they did and you were just too stupid to understand why you should never accept an open drink.

it's easy to blame it on you being a lightweight. the way you sway and slur your words, the way you stumble into him, the way your body overheats.

you've had too much to drink. you're not used to it, is all. he'll take care of you, don't you worry, big brother always does.

first, he's got to lay you down, you poor thing.

he doesn't want you to hurt your pretty little head by falling!

so, he lays you down in the empty room of the house as the party continues downstairs. as you fall to the bed in a heap, you swear you can see the throbbing beat of the music, now muffled behind the closed door.

in the dark room, the moonlight leaking through the pale blue blinds look like drunken undulations, wavering like heat shimmers, yet you can't keep your eyes open long enough to ogle at them. your body doesn't feel like your own, but you're not as nervous as you should be.

mark yanks his shirt off over his head - practiced, ready - and stalks over to your semi-limp body that's nearly hanging off the bed.

it's not hard to undress you, considering you're dressed like some cheap slut. and, honestly, if it wasn't mark that night, he's sure it would've been another dude at the party. the way you're such a fucking tease, he doesn't think anyone would be able to keep their hands off of you for long.

so, really, it's only fair your older brother is the one to get his hands on the goods, first. afterall, he was there to watch them grow.

the little camcorder he took from his parents - the old silver one they used to record all their trips around the world, mark's first steps, your first birthday with them - blinks red, on and off, on and off, as he strips you. he makes sure to capture your body: your bare tits as your chest rises and falls with each panicked breath, the smooth skin of your tummy, then down, between your legs, as he records your sopping cunt taking his fingers.

you mewl and your vision's swimming. and you feel here, there, everywhere, and it's so, so confusing.

you don't know what's happening and it's distressing because you know something is.

your hands weakly try to push at the foreign body on top of you. . inside of you. . but mark is stronger than anyone will ever be and you are far too drugged to do anything about it.

they're gonna be so mad, mark thinks, as he slides into you and tries to keep the camera recording the way your cunt grips him as he feeds his cock inside of you.

they'll be so mad when they find out you've snuck out.

and maybe you'll tell them. . you think something happened. . someone did something to you. . when you try to wash his cum out of your pussy.

maybe you won't. maybe you shouldn't. they'll already be mad at you, best keep quiet about it~

but the graysons will feel even worse in the next few months. . when you start puking your guts out.

and like the perfect parents they are, they'll take you to a doctor. . only for the results to come back positive.

mark may not be a golden boy, anymore.

but in nine months, maybe you'll give him one, instead 💗

[forsaken-fates]

' 'This is your home now. Forever forsaken by it all.' '

>[It's been a few days since the disappearance of the previous survivors, and it's been awfully quiet. No more hushed conversations of a person and himself, no more chattering and laughing near the fireplace, no more constant flicking of a coin, nothing. The people who remain in the cabin are all worried, holding onto a false hope that they'll somehow come back, that the round was just taking a bit longer, but it was obvious that they wouldn't. They were gone, and they had to accept that.]

>[Those survivors who had spent restless hours protecting themselves and their team, running around in order to escape the killer, had all been consumed by their own hatred and rage. It seemed as though they had been driven into madness, taking lives of others in the process of doing so, seeking revenge at releasing all the pent up anger that had been kept inside them for so long. Petty rivals became enemies, and friendships crumbled down from the lack of trust.]

>[Hope isn't all lost, though. Despite the rumors spread within the people present at the cabin, they are still well and alive. Although suffering from their demises, they continue on living. The places they stay aren't too uncomfortable, either. As a matter of fact, they feel almost like... home. Be it a bit more uncanny and isolated.]

>[Communication is a limited thing for them, with the majority being forced into a solitary version of their greatest memory. But it is not as difficult as one may think. If one wishes to send a message, or communicate with these said characters, they must write a letter. This said letter must have the name of the person you wish to send it too, otherwise it will be sent to a random person - or maybe even all of them, if you're lucky enough. Although you may feel free to break through the TV and talk to them in person, that's always an option.]

>[Now, what are you waiting for? You want to send a message, don't you? Here, pick up a pen and paper of your choice and write it. Don't be shy. I'm sure they'd be pleased to hear from you.]

SEMI-IMPORTANT POST

OOC NOTES UNDER THE CUT

-[Welcome to Forsakened Fates, an AU that explores an idea of the survivors from the Roblox game Forsaken turning into killers. The in-depth of storyline of this blog is yet to be revealed, as there are a few more gaps in my writing. But, enough of that. For now, let's put down some ground rules.]-

RULES:

1. This is an ongoing AU that is still being written by a sleep deprived high schooler that is solely being driven by insufficient caffeine and pirated music, so please be patient in case your ask isn't immediately answered. (If your ask is taking really long to answer, it probably just means there's a frame being worked on for the post. Please be patient if that's the case)

2. Obvious DNI criteria (creeps, racists, xeno/homophobes, etc.)

3. Please avoid sending controversial asks. This blog was made for fun and I'd like to avoid those kinds of topics in my blog.

4. Keep things SFW and don't get too 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴𝔂 in my inbox please. Suggestive and combat is okay but avoid getting into too much detail.

5. Anon magic, OCs, crossovers, and the like are all welcome! I love seeing what everyone's creativity made.

6. Characters in this blog are heavily headcanon and AU driven, so if a character ever acts off, feel free to ask about it! (Not guaranteed you'll get a straight answer)

7. I have no affiliations with souldrivenlove, nor any of the devs. This was made merely by my own with self interest.

8. This blog may involve some triggering topics such as murder, blood, body horror, suggestive themes, obsession, codependency, etc. Those said posts will be tagged accordingly + will have a "Keep Reading" cut or will be given a content label.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

- There will be active and inactive characters. Active means that you are able to interact with the character as you please, as long as they follow the rules above. Inactive, on the other hand, means that the character is unavailable, and a special action must be performed in order to unlock said character. Active characters are as follows (those unlisted are inactive): Guest 1337 👊 Chance 🕶️ Elliot 🍕 Shedletsky 🍗💚 >[FileName:"Builderman"not found.]⛑️

- Again, responses may be somewhat slow. I plan on using Roblox Studio and/or Catalog Avatar Creator for the responses, and I'm still learning in using them, so please be patient.

- Some characters may be OOC or not act like how they normally would. I would like to apologize if I get them HEAVILY incorrect, but most of their attitudes may be because of the lore written for them.

TAGS:

best.served.hot🍕 - Elliot

gamble.with.our.time🕶️ - Chance

rtotwitpyisfoth?🍗 - Shedletsky

am.i.a.robot.or.a.doll?⛑️ - Builderman

always.be.strong👊 - Guest

anonymous.letters✉️ - Anonymous asks

signed.letters✉️ - User asks

finally.something.happened🔪 - Rp start

still.praying.hopeless.and.in.vain🔪 - Rp end

ill.be.waiting.so.impatiently🔓 - Character unlocked

whats.that.puppet.boy?📷 - OOC posts

did.you.not.read.the.company.policy?📹 - Lore

[cutecinnamon]

Concurrence I

{ Concurrence I: A Declared Traitor • Levi x Reader }

CW: ⊹₊ MDNI ⊹₊ Pregnancy ⊹₊ Somewhat Explicit Smut Details ⊹₊ Levi Cares Despite The Circumstance ⊹₊

:gif from pinterest

• 2.3k word count •

Note: Concurrence II is now up ♡

: divider by @cafekitsune

Synopsis:

(Y/n) was a soldier under Levi's squad, she was a very skillful and effienciently trained scout until one day her cover was blown and the whole squad found out that she was in fact a Marleyan, and she was a warrior sent as an agent to infiltrate the survey corps. When Levi and the others found out she was to be executed until Queen Historia decided that the best punishment for her was to in fact stay at the survey corps since she was one of the most liable scouts, but one thing she did not expect was that she was ordered to carry the child of Humanity's strongest in order to keep the Ackerman Bloodline alive.

PART I

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚

The gentle breeze of the air touched your skin, it was cold.

Ever since the cat was out of the bag it became almost impossible to gain the reputation in the survey corps you once had.

You gently looked down at your belly, it was still not showing.

You then remembered the words of the queen that changed your life.

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚

"(y/n) how can you do this...? " Historia asked her, her gaze flickered with doubt and cold acceptance of the situation.

"Forgive me Historia, please know that I never intended to be a traitor to the survey corps... even if I'm not an Eldian by blood, my loyalty belongs to everyone here, in the walls, to Captain Levi and the survey corps."

(y/n) told Historia while kneeling, facing the consequences of her actions as a declared traitor.

"I know you (y/n), We have been under Levi's squad and I can tell that it wasn't all an act and show... that your loyalty was indeed with us... despite you being sent here by Marley to infiltrate the corps."

Historia said knowingly, she did believe that

(y/n) never intended any of that to happen and she had grown to fight for Paradis.

"I will accept any punishment that will be dished out on me, whatever it is... I know the terms of the regiment and I will face the consequence of my actions wholeheartedly."

(y/n) said, looking at Historia, her gaze showing acceptance of what is to come towards her actions.

"You know that I won't punish you with death or anything of that sort (y/n), I know that you are needed in the squad and I know that you are a good person,"

Historia said, her orbs carried kindness, just like how she was when she was still reffered to as her former alias Krista.

"Although you are still a declared traitor and... there is this other thing..." Historia continued,

"The Ackerman Bloodline, it must live on." Historia stated, her gaze changing with a hint of austere.

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚

pitter-patter

The sound of raindrops making contact with your skin and the floor brings you back, pulling you away from your thoughts.

You looked at your uniform as it started to soak from the droplets of water meeting your now fragile body.

You were still out of it, after hearing the words fall from Commander Hange's mouth an hour ago.

"Looks like you're pregnant (y/n), Congratulations." Hange said, her voice laced with warmth and anticipation.

Although it was delivered with a cheery and accepting tone by the Commander, it was not something that you wanted to hear, especially given the case that this was the punishment dished out to you by Historia herself and the fact that the biological father also despises you due to your faults of being a declared traitor under his squad.

You continued to stand at the field despite the continued droplets of water becoming heavier.

You were lost in your thoughts, the overwhelming feeling of the potential present and future,

It was all too much.

You were once again pulled away from your spiraling thoughts when someone pulled your arm, it wasn't the most gentle gesture but it also wasn't the harshtest.

"Snap out of it (y/n)." Levi firmly reminded while leading you to the barracks, to your shared quarters,

Levi didn't say anything afterwards, the walk towards your shared quarters was very quiet.

When you both reached the door, he opens it and drags you in despite your uniform dripping from the cold rain you openly welcomed while standing at the field spacing out earlier.

Levi closed the door, he then approaches you. The same distant, cold and hardened gray orbs was met by your gaze, despite the news he still maintained the same demanor, unfazed.

Turns out that Hange had a discussion with Levi telling him the news while you were at the field drenching yourself in the rain while your thoughts and feelings were all over the place.

"Tch, are you really that fucking careless (y/n)?" Levi asked her, his gaze piercing her.

"Sorry, I was just out of it, Captain." (y/n) replied, trying to keep her emotions in check, it was honestly an indescribable feeling.

"Change your clothes, you shouldn't get sick." Levi told her, though his tone of voice was void of concern and was laced with a hint of annoyance, he did care for her, and their now existing baby inside of her.

"Do you know...?" (y/n) asked, looking at Levi.

"Do you think I'm dumb? Besides, four eyes already discussed it to me." Levi responded, his tone still hinted subtle annoyance.

Levi approaches their wooden closet, he then grabs (y/n)'s white colored silk nightgown which was neatly folded and hands it to her.

"Take a bath and change, we wouldn't want you and that growing baby inside you to get sick." Levi told (y/n) his voice in monotone, his gaze still the same, with that unbothered and unfazed look to it.

(y/n) took the neatly folded silk nightgown, muttering a "Thank you." to her Captain.

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚

You knew that your relationship with the Captain wasn't the best ever since your identity of being "A Marleyan warrior sent to the survey corps to infiltrate them to get intel" was disclosed.

When everyone found out in your squad, they're jaws were all hanging open and they can't seem to grasp that you were a traitor,

The betrayal was far too foreseen.

You were a very skilled scout and edition to Levi's squad, especially when it came to your mission to protect Eren.

Your relationship with Levi was not bad too, although it was only civil, he did see potential in you, hell you even sometimes have tea with him at his office after helping him clean.

Which adds to the more disappointment and hatred that Levi has for you.

Although he still somewhat acts civil with you, you know deep down that he hates you, and the idea of concieving a child with you was indeed a burden for him.

"I mean, who would want a child from a traitor anyways?"

That phrase or question, the usual you hear from a few scouts who had heard about your rumored punishment.

After taking a warm bath, you wore the white silk nightgown as you proceeded to leave the bathroom.

You and Levi had been sharing quarters ever since you were exposed at the regiment about you true identity, It was an order that you are to be watched by Levi as he can end you with a swift if you are still proven guilty for the past accusations against you.

You went to your side of the bed, there is only one bedroom but it has two beds with a small space in between which was occupied by a small nightstand.

A few minutes prior, the Captain also entered the room, approaching your bed as you sat down at the soft neatly covered cushion.

"Don't be careless again brat." Levi stated, his tone hardly annoyed but still maintaining its usual monotone.

"Yes Captain," you simply responded avoiding his gaze, unsure how to face your captain,

Unsure how to face the father of your developing child.

"I'm sure that you were thought as a cadet to look at your superiors when taking with them."

Levi reminded you of your current behavior with his stern tone of speaking as you continued to avoid any eye contact with him.

You tried your best to look at him, meeting his piercing gray orbs.

"My apologies Captain, that was wrong and disrespectful of me." You stated, trying your best to maintain eye contact with him.

"Don't forget your ground (y/n), even if you're pregnant with my child, that doesn't change anything." Levi said, the coldness of his voice still lingering.

You nod at Levi, while maintaining eye contact with him.

"Yes Captain, I understand." You replied trying to keep your voice monotone despite the overwhelming feelings you were feeling.

You were seeking for comfort,

Namely Levi's comfort,

The comfort of your baby's father.

The news still struck you with many emotions of uncertainty, and it all wasn't easy.

Your mind then went back to the day that you and the Captain were both trying to conceive, it wasn't the most romantic gesture like others described it to be, reaching cloud nine, but then again you still reached that high, despite knowing better than anyone that given your circumstance, affection was doomed to be devoid between the two of you.

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚

The room was lit dim with candle lights, The smell of Chamomile lingering the room's gentle atmosphere. A few moans and groans were heard from the room.

"Ca- Captain..." you moaned out, as you arched your back feeling Levi's lips making contact with your already wet core.

"I shouldn't be enjoying this... this is suppose to be a punishment, damn you (y/n)". Levi said as he continued to burry his lips and tongue towards your moist and slippery entrance.

"I... I'm close... Captain Lev-" Levi cuts you off, as he continued to burry his tongue deeper reaching for your sweet spot that makes you see stars, as tears started to blur your sight from the overwhelming pleasure running its course throughout your body.

"Give it to me, let go." Levi said with his usual monotone and cold voice, but despite the cold gaze he always conveys, you also saw hunger and anticipation in his orbs as he looked at you while you lose yourself into the pleasure with the work of his tongue.

Your back arches as you let go a muffled moan echoing throughout your shared quarters as you grabbed Levi's raven black hair.

"Good girl, now let me fill you up until you carry my child, you Marleyan brat." Levi stated as he started to align his tip in your sensitive yet still soaking core.

As Levi pushed his length inside of you all you can do is remember the punishment dished out for you, for being a Marleyan traitor who infiltrated the scouts.

"You are ordered to carry the offspring of Captain Levi as your punishment."

"Is.. is this really all for the punishment...?" you asked while feeling Levi's tip between your seizing needy walls.

"Do you actually think I'll make love to someone like you?" Levi asked with a hint of subtle sarcasm in his voice as he fully inserted his hard length inside of you.

"So... this is all nothing to you...?" you asked, although you know the answer all too well, at the back of your mind you were hoping for a different answer, as you felt each thrust Levi was giving you, it started out slow as he lets you adjust to his size.

"Nothing, just like how you mean nothing to me." Levi answered coldly with no hint of guilt, not even a flash of regret is visible in his eyes, as he continued to thrust deeper, his pace getting faster as he penetrated your walls.

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚

"Nothing, just like how you mean nothing to me."

Levi's words were honestly stuck in your mind, playing like a broken cassette record.

You then decided to lay down on your bed while Levi was sitting on his chair near a small round table drinking his tea peacefully despite his unknown thoughts screaming loudly at him.

"(y/n), I know our situation is not ideal for the both of us." Levi stated while looking at his cup of tea.

"I am aware, Captain Levi." you simply stated, still feeling the needy desire to be wrapped around his arms while being comforted by his warmth.

Levi sighs, he knows what you need, even though he wants to provide it, he feels as if something is holding him back from giving you the comfort you very much seek for.

"You're a traitor." Levi stated while looking at your direction, you then decided to sit up making eye contact with him, both of your gaze meeting.

"No matter how much I explain myself, I do know I have that reputation in your eyes, and the whole regiment." answer him softly, at this rate you have come to the conclusion that nothing will change, it was impossible to change your image nor your fate after everything.

Levi stands up, leaving his cup of tea at the round table beside him.

He then makes his way towards you.

"(y/n) a scout never gives up, if you really want to return your proper reputation then prove yourself, the regiment is no place for pathetic and soft-hearted beings like you." Levi stated firmly while still maintaining eye contact with you.

"Captain... no matter what I do, I will always be viewed as a traitor, I'm a lost cost." at this point you were honestly at the verge of tears.

"Damn this pregnancy hormones," you continued to state, while wiping the tears forming in your eyes.

Levi then kneeled his right knee while you were sitting at your bed, making you both leveled.

"Listen to your Captain, I may not be fond of you but you are currently carrying my child, I do not wish for my child to have a mother who is a pathetic crybaby so stop crying."

Although Levi's voice was still the same with its usual stern and cold hint to it, his orbs were softer, making you come to the conclusion that he is at the very least trying to comfort you.

Your tears started to pour,

"Damn it brat, didn't I tell you not to cry?" Levi asked with the same tone of voice but then again, his gaze melting softer as he stood up, closing the distance between you both, he then pulled you into the warmth of his body, his arms holding you, while gently stroking your hair.

"Stop crying, I don't want your tears soaking my uniform." Levi reminded, still holding you gently betraying the coldness of his own tone of voice.

"Yes Captain... I understand." you softly replied while sobbing, as tears continued to pour from your eyes, soaking his scout uniform, although everything was a mess and out of place due to the overwhelming occurring events, you felt safe with the presence of your Captain's warmth meeting yours.

Maybe, he does care.

I hope you all like the first part of Concurrence,

Will start and write a few drafts for part II,

- Cinna ♡ ໒꒰ྀིᵔ ᵕ ᵔ ꒱ྀི১

[starguardianniom]

Billy background

Ok so thanks to chapter 4 we got some background on Billy now and like I promised here are some of the many pictures I took about it, (it took me an hour just to get through it all because I legit took a picture of almost pratically all dialogue but I'll spare you all the details and just jump straight into it) and some more.

The Sons of Calydon just straight up trust Billy with their truck and their freaking bangboo for starters because he used to work for them, surprise surprise, we all thought so from the beginning and we were right. Still the fact that they are on good terms enough for that kind of job already warms my heart a lot you have no idea.

What fate are we talking about exactly? Why did you leave? You seemed pretty well liked, I don't get it. I need more information, you are being so vague about the details it drives me nuts, still love you though, but dang you will make me work to get your secrets won't you? Fine, that just makes you even more interesting in my eyes. ^^

Just like that Billy you just saved us a lot of trouble I feel. I bet Nicole was so relieved.

So you talked to Lucy then, must have been interesting.

Well, since you are the messenger it would be rude to decline their offer.

Wow, you really just follow orders to the tee and Nicole cares enough to actually be willing to let go of the case if we refuse, dang the honor code is strong with The Cunning Hares. ^^ Don't worry my dear I want Perlman in jail as much as you guys do so we'll go meet them~.

So you are doing a side job for a few days for them and Nicole is letting you, good for you my man. Wait does that means that Red Moccus actually is staying with you and the Cunning Hares for the next few days? Wild. I bet Amillion was thrilled.

Dang, I guess Nicole is mad that you let Perlman get away right under your nose, don't worry I'll make sure that we get him back so that you get paid. I do hope that Nicole would still actually pay you even if you did let him go considering the sole reason why she, Anby and Nekomata are still alive was because you were there to help Lycaon climb aboard to save everyone so I do hope she will go easy on you.

Sibling concern as usual, fortunatly~

No dice on what was my answer, right? ^^

My thoughts exactly, pretty nice to see that out of the Cunning Hares Billy seems to be the only one who could still go back to people and friends he knew if it came to that, even if he doesn't seem interested in going back for some reason.

Yeah, if you're friends with Billy that automatically makes you friends with the Sons of Calydon, hell yeah! They aren't even mad that they had to rescue us and that Billy left them all that time ago, this is how you leave groups people, on good terms, take notes y'all. Caesar is so wholesome.

On the other hand, why are these the only options available after this wholesome dialogue, hoyo do you want us to have a problem being friends with Billy despite me already having maxed his trust, or make us tsunderes? Stop making me insult my boy please!

That ain't convincing very much Belle but I feared the other possible answer too much so sorry about that Billy you are still my favorite character in the game and Hoyo will never make me dislike you, try all you want he's still gonna be in my heart forever.

That one question I've been waiting for is finally here!!!

This. I straight up swear, while the Cunning Hares are a found family, you don't see Nicole and Anby calling Billy "bro", the Sons on another hand do. I keep hearing Anby saying "I got you sis" refering to Nicole in battle, and telling Billy to get some repairs while she's switching with him.

I would like to highlight that Caesar is saying that even if Billy has left the gang for a while so I guess he still has the title even if he isn't with them anymore, guess that means that if he ever leaves the Cunning Hares he can just go back to the Sons and get back his title and nobody will protest.

So Billy had a pretty big job in the Sons, neat. With all the responsabilities and stress that comes with it. Interesting~

Lighter having Billy has a rival, he also calls Billy his predecessor, meaning Billy had the position first and then it went to Lighter I guess. Lighter saw Billy in action and found him worthy of being his rival. Also that last sentence makes me thinks that Lighter forgot that Billy was literally made for battle, he's an Intelligent Tactical Unit, a battle android, he was made to fight so of course his combat skills are something else. But I really am tempted to pull Lighter just to have a few more info on Billy, given he seems interested in a duel with him and admires him, it seems legit that he might talk about him in some of his trust events, I sure hope so at least, because I will be very disappointed with Hoyo otherwise.

Again Hoyo, stop dissing my boy when others are praising him, like I know we might be used to the goofy side of Billy but like we also go on commission with him and the Cunning Hares a lot so surely we would be used to seeing him in action by now shouldn't we and like we are proxies not fighters we legit have no room to talk Billy is the one going in the Hollows risking his life we just give him the directions and the exit but if Eous is damaged we'll be safe at home, while Billy won't, so can we just stop with dissing him already? Please and thank you.

Going by that comment I assume Billy used to behave a lot more differently in the Sons than how he is now, but it does beg the question of how much drastic the change was, I mean an entire freaking gang of thugs ran away from him when they recognized him, so he must have been pretty scary and intimidating back then, but now he seems to look back on that side of him with a bit of shame? Anyway seems like he's pretty happy with his life with the Cunning Hares according to Lighter, being his dream life, which again, good for him this is wholesome on so many levels. ^^

Finally done, this took a while. I got fed with Caesar and Lighter happily providing info on Billy, but I still need more!

Still it was all very interesting, I will stay on the lookout for more info on Billy, feel free to also come at me with what you find about him too, or just talk about him, or gush about him, or shoot me your headcanons too, I will talk about him forever. ^^

[animeyanderelover]

Anon: Can I request Muzan, Kokushibo, Douma, Akaza, Daki and Gyutaro with a darling who has abilities like Wanda from Marvel?

Requests will be opened on the 4th August. I made the s/o a human, btw. Also, I stopped watching Marvel after End Game so I'm only aware of Wanda's telekinetic abilities and her powers to mentally control/manipulate someone.

Tw: Yandere themes, unhealthy mindset, unhealthy relationship, obsession, possessive behavior,delusion, stalking, clinginess, manipulation, abduction, drugging

Abilities like Marvel's Wanda

Kibutsuji Muzan

🩸 You would never expect it nor could Muzan ever accept it but his feelings for you are initially only consisting of burning envy and, by extention of such a pitiful emotion, hatred. This is a man who prides himself on being unbeatable, on being the closest thing to being perfect if he could only obtain the ability to walk under the sun. You're mortal, you're delicate, you're not a demon yet you were born with abilities far surpassing what mortals are supposed to be able to possess. It's no wonder that he hears about you thanks to his many underlings although he doesn't believe the rumors at first. How could a human possibly possess such great powers? Yet he's cautious, despite underestimating humanity largely so he decides to use some worthless paws of his and orders them to attack you whilst observing from the safe distance. You're no Demon Slayer but manage to trap the demons long enough until the sun starts rising and they burn to ashes, leaving Muzan terrified and in disbelief.

🩸 Something he couldn't believe is now something he doesn't want to believe, not after having looked down on mortals for such a long time. He instantly sees the potential in your abilities, as of now still unpolished and imagining what you might be able to do if you gain full control is a terrifying thought. Your powers could rival and even surpass those of his Upper Moons, perhaps even his own but Muzan does not allow himself to finish this thought. His underlings continue spying on you and that's when he hears how people call you perfect and praise you, something that triggers paranoia and wrath deep inside of him. You're still mortal! What use could all your powers have if you're destined to writhe and die eventually?! His emotions nearly threaten to overwhelm him yet he forces himself to compose himself, after a short outburst in his laboratory. He fears you deep down, someone who has defined everything he thought he knew about humanity. As a man highly skilled in science though, he can't help the spark of interest. How could you have such abilities despite being mortal?

🩸 Knowledge about your abilities would help reduce his fear and so he strives to discover what makes you different from others. A mutation of some sort would be his best guess but for that he needs samples of your blood. His scientific purpose is what you might call the start of his obsession. His pawns keep an eye on you, waiting for a chance to steal a bit of your blood. Information about you are constantly reported to Muzan who watches everything intently. Entertaining thoughts of killing you and by consuming you perhaps gaining your powers change over time as he considers you worthy of staying alive and perhaps becoming a demon. You would have great potential, he might even give you enough blood to make you one of his Upper Moons, an early sign of his growing favouritism towards you. Eventually his attention shifts to the things that truly are irrelevant for his scientific research yet your daily routine and your presonality somehow capture his attention.

🩸 Muzan isn't oblivious though, he catches onto his obsession fairly early and he doesn't take it that well, although the fact that you're special might make it at least a bit more acceptable for him. Needless to say, it's this point where things truly go downhill as the demon is unbelievably possessive. He wants you as a priced possession, the most unique human on earth who defined nature. He needs to have you, he won't lose someone as special as you to the Demon Slayers. He sends one of his Upper Moons to retrieve you but warns them to not kill you and that he won't tolerate failure. You don't do bad against the demon but lack experience and knowledge how to use your abilities fully so ultimately you get knocked out and land in Muzan's Infinity Castle where he keeps you poisoned and under the influence of drugs to weaken you not only physically but also mentally to stop you from using your powers. He continues his research on you but treats you mindfully as he has no intention to kill you. No, he's sure as his obedient and immortal pet, you'd do wonderfully.

Kokushibo

🌙 Tales of a human with very special abilities aren't something Kokushibo concerns himself with as the greatest swordman and strongest human for him will always be his younger brother Yoriichi. Not to mention that apparently they aren't even part of the Demon Slayer Corps. It's only when he hears the rumors about how this human possesses abilities that only Blood Demon Art should be able to do does he find his interest peaking ever so slightly. Perhaps one short visit wouldn't hurt, although Kokushibo has no intention of wasting his time if you do not live up to the stories that he has heard. On the first glance, you look very ordinary like every human does and if it wouldn't have been for the Upper Moon's enhanced senses and an instinct that one only develops after years of battles and fights, he would have dismissed you as a plain human he would have devoured for letting his expectations down. Something about your presence though sets his senses on slight alert as he knows that he should not completely underestimate you.

🌙 With his sixth sense informing him that you must be more than you allow to be seen, he trusts his instincts and starts stalking you and follows you. You never catch him but sometimes you turn around and stop and he instantly knows that you try to detect a presence. You have a hunch that someone is following you and Kokushibo silently comments you for your shap intuition. It's during a stormy and rainy night that he witnesses your abilities for the first time. It's a wonder that he has kept up that long with you even without having seen your powers once, perhaps his faith in his judgement is that strong or perhaps it's something else. A few trees fall over during that night, unable to stand the strong wind and the rain that feels like a whiplash as they threaten to crush you. You stop them though and his six eyes take in the scene in front of him with clear intrigue as you stop them midair and navigate them to fall down somewhere else before continuing your journey.

🌙 He's left surprised on that night but not because of your abilities. Whilst it is surely beyond unusual to find a human who has such special powers, something he will definitely observe closely, it's his own mindset and his own feelings during the accident that leave him stunned. A surge of slight panic, a wave of protective instincts taking over and one hand on his katana, ready to slash those trees and save your life if it wouldn't have been for your own skills. He would have exposed himself by doing so yet subconsciously let himself almost slip up. It's a loss of his own self-control, something that has never happened before to Kokushibo who is normally always composed and in control of himself. You're the trigger of his loss of control, only one reason more to observe you as the demon needs to know why he acted so unlikely. He disposes of serious threats normally yet such a thought never crosses his mind when his six eyes gaze upon you and he finds every thought of his mind revolving around you.

🌙 Kokushibo is no fool as the weird flutter in his chest and the way his eyes do not want to tear themselves away from you are dead giveaways. He's in love with you. A possibility he has never considered yet he humbly accepts his feelings and the obsessive thoughts it includes. The lack of ill will doesn't mean anything good for you though as Kokushibo is incredibly possessive, something which steams partially from his inferiority complex caused by his younger brother. The abduction happens soon after his realization as he decides to waste not anymore time. He has observed you long enough, can estimate the limit of your abilities as you have yet to learn how to fully master them. He doesn't want to cause a big ruckus nor greatly harm you if he can avoid it. It happens when you're asleep and at your most vulnerable and he for the first time dares to approach you, one of his hands reaching out to touch your sleeping face as his skin absorbs your warmth. He feels a strong yearning for this very warmth, for the feeling of your heartbeat pressed against his own. When your eyes flutter open, you only see six piercing eyes but before any scream can leave your mouth, you feel him hitting your pressure point before you slowly drift back into darkness.

Douma

❄️ You've recently joined the Eternal Paradise Cult for reasons you don't seem to quite know yourself. You've mostly just been sort of urged to do so by some other members who quickly offered you the position when realizing that you were struggling with your life, promised you a fulfilled one. Their leader is a man named Douma, hailed as some sort of god by the members although you do not believe in that nor do you plan to truly praise him and worship him. In fact, you do your best to avoid him since for some unknown reason, you have a very bad feeling about him. Unfortunately for you, one day you decide to use your abilities to finish your work as you believe that no one is there. Then it comes washing over you, a dreadful fear that makes your stomach turn, that has sour bile push against the back of your throat and that almost makes your heart jump out of your chest. You sense that someone's staring at you yet you can't see anyone. The feeling eventually fades away and leaves you nearly choking on your own breath as soon as it releases you.

❄️ The very next day, you're requested by Douma himself nder the disguise of asking the newest member of his cult how they're doing. To say that you're nervous would be an understatement, you're terrified but have to hide it in front of all the other members who are excitedly telling you what an honor it is to have Douma request you and that you have to be on your best behavior. You do not wish to earn their ire after all. When you're led to the room he awaits you in, you keep your head down all the time and bow as soon as you've entered, still not looking up. You hear his cheerful voice asking to be left alone with you, a sentence that forms a lump inside your throat but it's only as soon as the shoji doors are closed that you truly realize in how much of a peril you are when that same feeling from yesterday washs over you again and you come to the horrifying conclusion that it must have been Douma himself who saw you yesterday.

❄️ The pressure is gone as soon as it came over you and instead you hear him lilting you encouragingly to look up. You do so slowly, your body in a paralyzed state of fear as you meet his eyes. They're of magnificent rainbow-colours and shine in the dimly lit room, perking down with clear intrigue at your trembling form as a smile stretches across the demon's face and he asks you of your name and what a damsel in distress like you is doing here. You barely manage to choke out your half-hearted excuses of joining the cult, terrified and yet equally captivated by those orbs staring at you. Douma seems to notice your distress and gives you a sickening sweet smile, cooing that there's no reason to be so nervous in front of him. He just wants to get to know you a bit better, that's all. The time you spend in the room alone with him is agonizing as you can not figure out what his intentions are. You only know one thing for certain. He knows but you don't know what he plans to do now. This puts you constantly on edge, long after you've been dismissed by him.

❄️ You quickly seem to become his favorite follower among his cult, something that does earn you the envy of many others yet Douma makes it very clear that no one should even dare to touch a strand of your hair. Talking about touching, this order does not apply to him as you quickly figure out that Douma enjoys keeping you close and touching you. From running his fingers through your hair, pinching your cheeks or even grabbing your waist, he loves touching you and appreciates the flustered and scared reactions you always give him even more. By now you feel like you're about to go insane as you don't know if he tries to lull you into a false sense of security only to kill you brutally afterwards, you do know that you can't stay here anymore. You try to escape, something that Douma was expecting and he's quick to catch you and reveals his true self to you, although you surely already knew that he was not human. He urges you to show him your powers again and out of panic you do, only that instead of anger you're met with thrill as he grabs you, claws digging painfully into your skin. How splendid you are! How could he ever let someone as adorable and special as you leave him?

Akaza

👊 Akaza is always up for a good fight, no doubt about it. So that should make him especially interested in his darling and when he happens to hear the story of them, spilled out by his next victim that tells him everything as fear loosens their mouth, he finds himself pausing. He does not spare the life of the unfortunate man though, it's actually quite disgusting to witness the man telling him a secret you trusted him with. What a pathetic excuse of a man, it almost ruins Akaza his appetite. Still, he's now curious to see this special human the man oh so willingly talked about shortly before the Upper Moon crushed his life. He should have time for a short side trip to judge for himself if you're all that intriguing and special. True so far to the man's word, he discovers the little cottage hidden within the forest where you have been living so far a quiet and isolated life, growing your own vegetables and selling some of them in the nearby city. Your life is about to change though.

👊 You have no one to help you with in your garden or with the other labor you do everyday so you have resorted to using your powers to help lift and carry stuff that would put physically too much of a strain on you. There's no one around you after all so you don't see any reason why you shouldn't use your gift. That's perhaps the big mistake you make, too naive and not careful enough as Akaza's eyes take in your powers and catches him by surprise. He knows that the man had no reason to lie in the face of his death yet it still comes as a shock to see that not only demons have special powers but you apparently too, a very simple human. It fascinates him as he can't help but wonder if there are other humans like you who have such powers. The most prominent question in Akaza's mind is though how far you could go with your abilities as it's quite obvious in his eyes that you lack experience and the knowledge how to properly wield your abilities as you only use them to finish your labor quicker.

👊You earn yourself a new stalker who watches you closely from that day on, who seems captivated by your powers whenever you use them , mind racing with possibilities what you could do. Imagining you at the peak of your powers fighting against him excites him and makes his head and heart alike start racing. Your life otherwise is painfully boring and he bemoans your wasted potential as you could do so much more than growing fruits and vegetables. Oddly enough he slowly finds enjoyment and a weird tranquility in the very act of watching you just being plainly normal and at night he's often lurking around your house, watching out for any potential demon that might get too close. If he doesn't sense any danger, he catches himself in the act of watching you sleeping, blissfully unaware of his presence. There's this tight pull in his chest as he gazes upon your sleeping form, an unknown feeling that longs to always be able to watch you and have you with him.

👊 His feelings grow until they threaten to drown Akaza and that is when he snaps and decides to take you for himself. He's certainly delusional as he not only believes that he can teach you how to really make good use of your abilities but also because he's convinced that you will forgive him if he has to use less appropriate methods. Surprisingly enough he reveals himself in front of you as he tries to verbally convince you at first. He admits that he's been watching you for a while now and that he wants you to come with him, that he wants to help you with your powers. His reflexes are way too fast so when you try to use your telekinetic abilities, he quickly restrains you, uses this chance to emphasis how you need training. He wasn't aware up until this point that you could mentally manipulate someone until you do it on him and it's only thanks to his sheer willpower and the fact that he smashes half of his skull that he regains control, much to your shock. His eyes have grown colder now as he grabs you by your arms, although his gaze soften when he sees the fear. Poor thing, try to understand that he only wants to protect you. You didn't know after all what lurks around at night until you met him.

Daki

🌺 You're only a mere servant in the house of the famous and feared Oiran Warabihime, one personally assigned to cater to said woman's every need and wish. The way everyone stares at you with pity already tells you that something is rather wrong and it's when you witness the temper of the Oiran that you know why everyone kept throwing you such glances. Because Warabihime is cruel and believes that everyone and everything should adore her and bend to her will and the fact that she is the most famous Oiran of the house who earns the most money only gives her more power. Her loss would be fatal to the house and so to not anger her and keep the other women in this house safe, you do your job as dutifully as possible. You act as submissive as possible, always adress her with respectful titles and rush to give her anything she desires. If she does get angry as her temper truly is an ugly one, you instantly go down on your knees, humiliating your pride but sparing yourself any violence as the Oiran calms down upon your acts of obedience.

🌺 In fact Warabihime seems to take a liking to you as your patience and endurance to stay with her, the clear obedience you adapt to please her, flatter her a lot. Finally a human who understands how to act around her, who knows how to treat her with submission and respect. As she takes her ire less and less out on you, you start to realize that she allows you to hang out less and less with other people. Suddenly the Oiran insists you to stay with only her and even the smallest protest from your side instantly makes you a target of her wrath again so you learn to shut your mouth and accompany her silently. You're treated with a lot more respect and just as much fear as everyone soon knows that interacting with you would only earn them the fury of Warabihime herself. She's the only one deserving of your attention and spends her time starting to dress you up in finer clothes, insisting that her darling has to look presentable in her company. You turn into her little dress-up doll she likes to dote on as long as you continue your submissive behavior.

🌺 You've hidden your powers so far from everyone since previous experiences have taught you that people fear your abilities. You reveal them by sheer accident and only to protect Warabihime as another Oiran, terrified of her cruel reign and the disappearance of other woman because of her despite clear lack of proof, attempts to attack her and her darling with a knife. Obviously Daki could have easily overpowered her but instead you stop her with your power and take the knife away from her, the object flying in the air before dropping down in front of your feet. You did that all without realizing it but before you can stop the woman from screaming, her eyes scared as she looks at you and then behind you, obi sashes suddenly wrap themselves around her, suffocating her and that's when you hear her voice, right next to your ear and angrily hissing at you what you just did. The ire in Daki's voice is dripping out of every word as she's immensely mad with you.

🌺 You never told her about your abilities, that's not what a good and obedient lover does. Daki feels entitled to know everything about you, no matter how ashamed you might be of your past. Your feelings do not concern her as it's only important for her that she knows. To think that you kept such a big secret as your own abilities away from her is infuriating, so much to the point that she doesn't wonder how and why you, a human, has such abilities nor gives you credit for having used your powers to protect her. You're kidnapped the very same evening, don't dare to resist as you sense her foul mood and realize that if you fight back now, she'll hurt you. Her obi slashes are tightly wrapped around you, you have a feeling that they could crush your bones if you struggle. You better have a good explanation for why you never told your beautiful master about your powers, otherwise Daki will punish you. Chances to escape her are higher in comparison to other Upper Moons though as Daki tends to underestimate her opponents. The question is if you dare to have her calling Gyutaro who certainly won't be as foolish as his sister tends to be.

Gyutaro

🟢 Gyutaro gets to know you through Daki as you are part of the same house as she is, although he has no interest in you initially. He despises humans with a burning passion so why should he care about someone like you? You're potential food for him at best. It isn't until he's out to hunt down some humans and devour them that he witnesses you for what you really are. He recognizes you when he sees how you're being threatened and bullied by some people of the disttrict and just watches with half of a sadistic grin and half of a disgusted sneer on his face. All of you are so pathetic. He might as well kill all of you to kill several birds with one stone. Only that it never comes that far as your powers explode sort of out of you when they get physical and you accidentally knock all of them out with your telecinetic powers and your mental manipulation alike, lost in your wrath and anger. When you snap out of it, you're mortified of what you did and fled the scene, leaving Gyutaro fascinated.

🟢 You're anxious to be exposed by the people who attacked you but weirdly enough they disappear after that night and no one knows where they are. See it as a a kind gesture of Gyutaro who decides to help you as you clearly lack the guts to take a human life. He doesn't know why he spares you and even helps you to protect that little secret of yours, perhaps because the look in your eyes reminded him of himself, even if only for a short second. Now you definitely have caught his eyes though and Daki is left having to have you around her more often as she can sense her brother's peaked interest in you, something that makes her quite jealous and sometimes just makes her want to strangle you if it wouldn't be for Gyutaro growling at her to let you be. He takes it upon himself to stalk you too as Daki makes it clear that she can't be bothered to look after you like some sort of babysitter all of the time. Whatever he has witnessed that night doesn't allow him to just kill you. Yet.

🟢 Thoughts os murdering you gradually fade away though as Gyutaro gets to know you a whole lot better through all the information he drains out of his little sister and his time spent stalking you. It's obvious that you resent those who hurt you and put you down yet you do have a certain kindness to you, one he can't help but scoff over yet simultanously be curious about. Kindness is a needless waste of time in his eyes yet you still try to express compassion as good as you can, even if rarely. At times he wonders how it would be if you would show him some of your kindess, although he quickly tries to shake those thoughts off as soon as they cross his mind. What was he just thinking? Certainly something that infects his mind more and more, a weird itching need rising all over his skin to touch you, have you with him and away from those people you so secretly despise. Realizing that he holds affectionate feelings for you is everything but easy for Gyutaro but rising from that resentment is the sadistic possessiveness that demands to take you and drag you down the same hole he's falling in.

🟢 You freeze in horror when Gyutaro shows himself to you right after Daki has forced you to follow her somewhere, doing begrudgingly as her brother has told her to do. An angry mask shadowing his face when he sees how you start cowering in front of him, about to use your powers before he immobilizes you with his next words. That he knows what you did to those humans on that night and that he is in fact the one who got rid of their bodies for you. So instead of trying to attack him with your powers, you should just maybe be a bit more grateful. Otherwise you would have been exposed as the freak you are after all for your strange powers. He's a demon after all, he's normal. You on the other hand are a true outcast even amongst your own kind. If Gyutaro knows that you're afraid of your own powers and have been forced to hide them due to the fear of being treated as a monster, he will go for that weak spot of yours. You could try to attack him only to risk him hurting and punishing you later on but who exactly do you want to go to? He'll manipulate you into feeling all alone and that there won't be anyone besides himself who will accept you for who you truly are.

[deconstructthesoup]

Some more thoughts and considerations for the Dead Boy Detectives noir AU (original post here):

-I've decided that this takes place in 1935, which means that Edwin and Charles will both be, well, thirty-five---if we're setting this story in the early twentieth century, it only seems fair that Edwin should still have been born in 1900, and Charles should be around his age. The differences in the way that Edwin and Charles talk come down more to their differences in upbringing, as Edwin grew up in a posh family and Charles's family was more working-class. (I think the girls, by contrast, are probably in their late twenties---less experience than the boys, but with just as much grit.)

-Honestly, the timeline works out perfectly, because it's endlessly easy to replace the "Edwin was in Hell" storyline with a "Edwin was in WWI" storyline. I think he got drafted as soon as he was of age---early in 1918, since he's a January boy---and managed to hold on for those final eleven months before the war finally ended. He still has nightmares and flashbacks from that time, and while he doesn't pretend that he's not affected by it, he doesn't really let people help him through it. (Charles managed to avoid the draft due to running away from home on his eighteenth birthday, and it's pretty difficult to sign up for the military when you're a missing person.)

-Since Edwin and Charles are a) alive, and b) well into their thirties in this story, their agency is simply called "Payne & Rowland Investigations." There was much debate over whose name should go first, but they wound up settling on just going by alphabetical order.

-Tragic Mick runs a pawn shop about a block away from the agency, and while he's very much the kind of guy who likes to keep his head down and stay out of other people's business, he also happens to be kind and calming enough that people wind up telling him their stories anyway, which means that he usually knows a lot of random little secrets. Edwin and Charles tend to visit him whenever they're in need of a lead on a new case, and while Tragic Mick knows better than to give them anything too specific, the little tidbits he offers usually send them in the right direction.

-The Night Nurse is the head editor at Crystal's paper, and the one who keeps her on the society pages instead of letting her take the more investigative side of things. This is mainly because she's very focused on making sure that the paper continues to receive funding and doesn't ruffle any bigwig's feathers, but it's also because the Night Nurse doesn't really take Crystal that seriously---she's got movie stars for parents and still has hints of her "spoiled rich girl" past in the way she interacts with the world, so she genuinely believes that writing about society gossip is where Crystal's talents are best served.

-While Niko's perfectly happy with her job as a secretary, especially since Edwin and Charles have no problem inviting her onto the cases, she dreams of someday becoming a well-known novelist, and is more than a little inspired by her adventures with the detectives when it comes to actually getting her stories down. In fact, I've actually been toying with the idea that that's how she and Crystal met---they were college roommates who had the same writing class, Niko kept on attempting to bond with Crystal despite her very much being in her mean, party-girl era, and after Crystal wound up in an incredibly harmful relationship and realized that she needed to pull the plug, Niko helped her through it, cementing their status as genuine friends. And, well... maybe, throughout the years, they wound up becoming something a little bit more.

-Jenny is the bartender at the Cat King's nightclub---which I'm still debating a name for, though I am leaning towards "Pussycat" because, well, reasons---and she also happens to be his closest friend, in that achellian/sapphic solidarity way where you're bitching at each other constantly but unquestionably have each other's backs. They've known each other for years, they're in business together, she did a lot of the bootlegging during Prohibition... hell, they even got married for tax benefits, even though both of them are very open and honest about their sexualities. And unfortunately for Charles, Jenny is very tight-lipped about the Cat King's secrets.

-Charles was the first person that Edwin came out to, when they were sixteen, and he was also one of the only people in Edwin's life to accept that part of him unconditionally. On the flip side, Charles has always assumed that he was straight, but in the past year or so, he's been questioning his sexuality... and though Edwin knows about this, Charles still hasn't told him that he's part of the reason he had that realization. As it stands, they're only partners in the business sense---though, that'll be changing soon if their secretary and her reporter friend have anything to say about it.

-Anything I tell you about Esther and Monty is a spoiler. I might wind up writing this. You must not know.

-I've been debating whether or not I want to include the original characters I made for Put Your Records On in this story to better flesh out the world---at the very least, include Cecil and their girlfriend Alice, since they seem to have backdoored their way into becoming Dead Boy Detectives OCs---and I'm still not quite sure. I mean, for one, it'd be cool to have, say, Laura as a librarian who helps the detective agency out with research every now and then, but on the other hand, they're all very much tailored to that specific story... so, I guess you'll just have to see. (Though, I have an excellent idea for Arasha that I don't think I can ignore.)

And that's what I got for now!

[potahun]

Canon and "Canon-ish" FuruKaza moments: An ENG Compilation

Furukaza (Furuya Rei x Kazami Yuuya) is a fan pairing (not canon) from DCMK, that mainly finds its reasons in things which, while baffling, are often not easily accessible in English. Having scrambled and screamed for ~2 years through materials, I thought an ENG compilation would be fun to make, especially for potential new frkz fans. Some house-keeping points:

Part 1 of this list contains spoilers for Zero's Tea Time (ZTT) and the movies. It follows a "Fact -> Recommendation" structure, so you can just read the REC part if you want to avoid spoilers.

This list however presumes that you know about Furuya's triple identity. If the name "Furuya Rei" is not clear to you, it's fine, but please don't read part1 unless you're fine with major DC spoilers.

This list will be divided into "canon" facts (manga/anime), "semi- or may be canon" facts (movies, ZTT) and "furukaza from other official sources" (merch/other).

Ultimately, this will not replace the fun of going through the materials and piecing up your own frkz narrative, but i hope it can be a starting point or a thing that casual DC fans can read and go "what's wrong with those guys" and "is this allowed?" about

Finally, I will keep a neutral tone for this list, as they are frkz "facts". Please read as such, and welcome to fact-check.

[PART 1: canon and may be canon(this post)] [PART 2: other official sources]

-PART 1: Canon and "May Be Canon"

BACKGROUND

Kazami Yuuya (30) is Furuya Rei's (29)'s subordinate. But they actually belong to different police agencies: Furuya is from the National Police Agency, while Kazami is from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police's Public Security Bureau. Kazami first appeared in the series in M20: The Darkest Nightmare (2016) and was introduced in the manga later.

A. CANON FACTS (DC Manga/Anime)

Kazami only appears in a total of 4 cases in the manga/anime, each time with Furuya.

Out of all DC characters, Kazami is one of the only people still alive who call Furuya by his real name, and maybe the only one who almost exclusively calls him "Furuya-san" instead of his undercover alias "Amuro". He once calls him "Furuya-san" when he shouldn't (in front of others), showing the extent to which Furuya is "Furuya" to him.

When Kazami is trapped in a basement by a criminal and has one chance to contact the outside world, he chooses to inform Furuya. Though Kazami reassures Furuya that it's fine, he can probably escape, Furuya insists on going himself to save Kazami.

Kazami is candidly excited when he sees Furuya in the same basement as him, exclaiming "Yatta (yay!)! Now I'm saved!".

Kazami behaves sternly in front of other police officers, but when he is with Furuya, he becomes more expressive, effusive and candid, such as whining to Furuya about wanting to stay until the end of the Kid Heist, but instantly switching to a serious expression when Nakamori talks to him.

Kazami does not derogate from Furuya's orders, even if it puts him in unenviable situations. He answers Furuya's call on his free day and agrees to work without prior notice, even though he really wanted to hear Yoko Okino perform live and was already at the idol festival when Furuya called.

Furuya has Kazami's home address, as seen by the fact that he sends, to Kazami's appartment, a box of Okino Yoko CDs, photobooks, calendars and the illegal pre-sale DVD of the concert that Kazami missed.

Kazami is older than Furuya by 1 year, but due to ranks, he calls Furuya with the polite "-san" honorific, and speaks exclusively in polite form to him. Furuya, despite being younger, uses "Kazami" without honorifics and sometimes, "kimi", as well as casual speech (tameguchi) towards him. Another pair that has a similar speech pattern is Takagi and Satou. (Satou using casual speech with Takagi because she is more senior, while Takagi uses "Satou-san" and speaks politely)

In file 1115, Furuya has to board a Shinkansen train. Kazami walks him all the way to the platform but does not board. Shinkansen train platforms are located past their own ticket gates, so it raises questions such as whether Kazami bought a ticket just to send Furuya off, or if he used his police badge to go through, and why.

REC: File 998; Files 1051-1054; Files 1076-1078; File 1115 (and their corresponding episodes)

--

B. SEMI-CANON OR "MAY BE CANON" FACTS (Movies, ZTT)

It's uncommon for Furuya to give direct answers to questions, especially if they concern himself. However, in both the main manga and ZTT, Kazami asks Furuya a lot of questions and gets a truthful answer most of the time.

Despite that he should cut off ties with his past, Furuya trusts Kazami with knowledge of some private and confidential aspects of his life, including prior to the NPA, such as the fact that he was classmates with Matsuda Jinpei. Kazami is also trusted with at least some knowledge of the BO, given his role in securing Curaçao.

There is at least a period in time when Kazami seems to disapprove of Furuya, enough that he confesses to Conan that Furuya is "a murderer". He also says to Furuya's face that he is a "terrifying man". Despite this, he remains loyal and never derogates from his orders.

Furuya saves Kazami from falling to his death, while both are injured from an explosion. During that time, Furuya gets collared with a bomb by the culprit, and has to be quarantined. In the end, it is Kazami who enters the quarantine box alone and neutralises the bomb on Furuya's neck, even though Kazami is not part of a bomb squad. In effect, Furuya entrusts his life to Kazami in this process.

Furuya once calls Kazami "my outstanding subordinate" while talking to a criminal.

After Kazami neutralises the bomb threatening Furuya, he appears to have collapsed from exhaustion, but wakes up to find Furuya's jacket covering his shoulder. Kazami is not wearing a protective blast suit in this scene and is alone. In episode 304, Matsuda explained that a blast suit is so heavy it cannot be put on or removed on one's own.

When talking as Bourbon, Furuya's eyes are usually drawn with a smaller pupil. After talking with Rye for a while with those eyes during an intercalation with the BO, his eyes return to the usual "Furuya" look when Kazami calls out to him.

Furuya will lecture Kazami about needing to sleep well and eat well, when Kazami reveals he's eaten chocolate for breakfast and hasn't slept due to reports. He takes Kazami to a restaurant, driving the car even though normally, it's the subordinate who should drive. Furuya also smiles when he sees Kazami fall asleep in the passenger seat of his car.

Furuya cooks too much in the morning and says to himself he will give it to Kazami. In the anime, there is an extra scene where Furuya finds a tired Kazami in the park to give him a bentou wrapped in a furoshiki.

Kazami once thinks silently that chocolate is the best combination with whiskey, and wonders if Kazami Yuuya is truly the most compatible with Furuya Rei. Right after thinking that, he stares at Furuya and bites into chocolate.

Furuya asks Kazami to speak to him without honorifics just for that evening at the bar, because they're celebrating Kazami's good work in a mission. There's just the two of them in that party.

While drunk in Furuya's presence, all that Kazami thinks and babbles about is related to Furuya. This includes thoughts like "it's not because you have a good-looking face that I'm jealous" and being upset when Furuya talks to the lady bartender "instead of" with him at one point.

When Kazami catches a cold, Furuya thinks it might have been because he caught it from him, and gives him some celery from his own lunch with his chopsticks.

Kazami gets hooked on a co-op mobile game where he plays with someone using a girl character called REI, and whom he calls REI-chan. Kazami found her cute and called her an oasis for his dried out heart. The girl character has a face similar to Furuya.

Furuya trusts Kazami to take care of his dog Haro while he is away on a trip. When Furuya returns, he finds Kazami sleeping in his bedroom with Haro, covered in the dog's blanket, and smiles.

Furuya has a trick to gain less weight drinking ramen soup, but says it doesn't matter for Kazami anyway "because you're slim".

Furuya also calls Kazami to join in baseball matches and other sport games where Furuya participates in as "Amuro". This involves Kazami meeting people from Poirot and the ramen shop, and him assuming the fake identity of "Hida", Amuro's former assistant.

When Furuya gets trapped in a basement with children without phone network, he has one chance to contact someone, and the person he contacts is Kazami, who does come to free them.

The clothes that Furuya wears as Amuro are picked and bought by Kazami.

When Kazami mistakenly thinks that Furuya has brought a woman home, it really affects him and he cannot stop thinking about it. Furuya actually spends time clearing these doubts to Kazami, even asking him if he has "any other unclarified doubts?" at the end. All of this takes place in Furuya's home.

When Kazami saves a drowning child in a storm, but almost dies too, Furuya saves him and praises him for spotting that child. Kazami blushes.

Kazami and Furuya spar together as training.

Kazami takes care of Haro frequently enough that, when Furuya cannot figure out why Haro has gained weight, his first thought is that Kazami has been spoiling him too much while taking care of him. Kazami is offended when confronted, and Furuya actually apologizes.

Kazami installs pet cameras in Furuya's house and can access the footage from his laptop. He and Furuya meet after work to check the videos and figure out together why Haro has been gaining weight.

Kazami will buy fancy beef snacks for Haro without being asked to by Furuya and they will play together with Haro so he can have the snack as a reward.

When Furuya misses a difficult kick in a rugby game, Kazami thinks he did it on purpose, but Furuya assures that he is not that almighty. Later, in an emergency, Furuya succeeds in making that kick, when Kazami is there to hold the ball for him.

When Furuya rushes ahead up a burning apartment, he almost loses his life by falling from a high floor. The reason he's alive is because Kazami thought fast (of his own initiative) and got people ready to help cushion Furuya's fall.

Note: The spin-off Zero's Tea Time was serialized between 2018 and 2022, written by Arai Takahiro, but with drafts supervised and approved by Gosho Aoyama. Whether you consider ZTT and movies "canon" is up to you, but they can be canon.

REC: Movie 20 The Darkest Nightmare; Movie 22 Zero the Enforcer, Movie 25 The Bride of Halloween; Zero's Tea Time Chapters 2, 3, 11, 14, 15, 19-20, 24, 25, 31, 32-33, 35, 37, 38, 39, 45, 51, 57 and 58.

Part 2 of this compilation over here for the Other Official Sources

[1-800-local-slut]

The Scientist

Leia is sick of Poe risking his life, and decides it time for him to learn the amount of work others put to keeping him and his team in the air.

Warnings: none really, just shy Poe.

Pairings: Poe Dameron x Shy!Black!Scientist!Fem!Reader

Series Masterlist

This is my first time writing, so please go easy on me, I hope anyone who reads this enjoys! Please let me know what you think. <3

Next part <3

___________________________________________________________

Even in her old age, Leia walked fast. In fact, she may have been running down the cordier. Poe Dameron himself struggled to keep up with her but given the hard slap he just received part of him thought he was just concussed. 

It was right after he had returned from being MIA for three days now and they were starting to give up tracking his X-Wing. Sure, he strayed off his flight path to recover a comrade and got them back but got sent spinning right into enemy fire but he was fine so no harm no foul right? Wrong. 

When he returned, General Leia was standing over a man who was working at a computer that seemed to be tracking his X-Wing (that was now abandoned in a random solar system much to his chagrin) and everyone was quiet. He watched Leia look down in sadness when the little dot on the monitor went out, his X-wing now detonated. He naturally broke the silence with the bag of chips he was chewing on. Leia’s relief to see him was replaced very fast when she realized he was not injured, or deceased or anything else but standing there perfectly fine in some new (stolen) clothes and eating a bag of chips. She quickly took her hand to his face, to which he winced and stifled a noise. Wasn’t the first slap she’d given him, probably not the last.

He was a bit more offended than he’d ever tell her that they were that worried. Like c’mon. He’s Poe Dameron. The First Order couldn’t kill him if  he was right in front of them (a proven fact given how many times he has been right in front of them and came out perfectly fine) but still accepted the harsh slap. Now what was he chasing her down the hall for? Simple, after the slap:  she growled at him,

“You’re grounded.” 

An air of shock went through everyone in the room. When she stormed out, he started after her and that was 30 seconds ago. Even now, she’s way ahead of him and he knew better than to run up behind her.

Grounded. Poe couldn’t believe it. He was a grown man, grown as hell. So grown he had even grown a beard in the three days he was out there unattended. And now he was grounded? So what was he to do, sit in his quarters all day? For how long? Could he still go out with his friends? Was he stuck on base? Was he stuck on planet? Why was he pondering this so hard? Suddenly, she stopped in her tracks and he stopped as well.

“Grounded?!” He asked her, his brown eyes swirling with confusion.

“Grounded.” She repeated staring up in his eyes. Her face looked tired, annoyed, irritated. He could see if she was anything, she was not in the mood.

“You went off your flight path mid mission and you disappeared for three days. You didn’t contact anyone, you lost your X-Wing, and you came back eating a bag of chips? Everyone on this base works hard. Not just you. When you shoot off into the sky and have very little regard for the care or stress you're putting onto your comrades I have half a mind to discharge you. Even worse, you lost one of our X-Wings, which means we’re short one. You seem to have very little regard to how much work goes into making sure you can stay in the sky.” She glowered, staring down her nose at him despite being far shorter. 

“Okay, I see your point but, and just hear me out, BUT I came back alive, completed my mission, AND saved Green-2. Sooooo balance!” 

He frantically tried to explain to her. Oh God, it would be so embarrassing to be grounded, a grown ass man. Finn certainly wouldn’t let him live it down. Rey? Please, he may as well go back to being M.I.A. They still hadn’t returned from their own missions but he knew whatever mood they came back in, this would make them feel 1000 times better.

“Poe. My decision stands. You will not fly off this base, you will not leave this base, you won’t even open your window.” Now her voice was very stern, emphasizing the words ‘will’ and ‘not’ with each sentence. It made him shiver.

“I’ll clean the toilets after dark if I have to! I’m a grown man, General please?” He pleaded, almost ready to get on his knees. 

“After dark, huh?” She said softly, her gaze lightly softening and a mischievous look taking place over her angry one. 

“Any time!” He exclaimed, nodding his head quickly. His black hair flopped against his forehead in loose curls, his desperation glaringly apparent.

“Come with me.” Turning her back to him again, she resumed her fast pace and Poe couldn’t help but sigh quietly.  Another fast and seemingly long walk.

⭐⭐⭐

After opening two doors, going down into another level he’s never entered before, Leia led the pilot to a large area with glass panes peering into rooms on each wall. Light green fluorescent lights shone under the white floor in long lines. The glass seemed to be tinted the same shade of green but had rows of circular lights on the ceiling.  

“Where are we?” He asked her in genuine amazement. In all his time, he never saw this place, through all the light speed jumps and everything else. She just glanced up at him. He was truly amazed but part of him was still terrified. He wiped his sweaty palms on his gray shirt and all he could think about was the fact that he’s gone three days without a shower. He could only hope he smelled semi-decent, as it seemed he was about to meet someone new.

“Do you know how your blasters are modified, who makes the medicine, who powers our entire base and keeps your ships running?” She asked him as she led him past one of the glass windows and he saw a messy office. He looked to his right and saw another one but they were both empty.

He stayed silent as they approached another glass window. On the left, was an empty and semi-clean office with modules, blasters, cups, notebooks and more strewn about. On the right? Pure chaos.

A tall laser stood being manned by a very short girl with blue hair curled on the sides. She had a round face with thin lips and gray, slanted eyes. She wore a white jacket with gold lining that overlapped over her chest and was neatly pressed. It pressed to her slim figure, highlighting her lack of shape and curves. In addition she wore a black leather skirt with no stockings and a pair of red boots with black socks that went up to her shins. A pair of goggles were snapped over her eyes with a pair of big, heavy duty black gloves.  She was standing on top of a pile on a long desk that looked wildly unstable and she looked very tired. Her pale skin was smeared with grease stains. She also had crumbs all over her face, like she was curtly cut off while eating. The laser she was manning was on at a very high voltage and another girl sat at the desk. 

She had a beautiful head of curly hair that emphasized her face and simple make up. A large poofy afro that framed her face and a headband pinned her hair back to keep it out of her eyes. She had brown skin that reminded him of his own eyes and plump lips. She was…beautiful. She looked intently at the table, like she was in competition with the laser to see who could burn a hole through it first and her eyes themself enticed him deeper. Just looking at her made his stomach turn in the oddest way. She had deep bags under her eyes and she looked so tired she nearly looked angry. Unlike the other girl, she wore a plain spaghetti string tank top, a black leather pencil skirt that stopped at her mid thigh and black stockings. Her clothing clung to her curvy figure, accentuating every curve and outline of her. Poe also couldn’t help notice she was barefoot. It’s not everyday you see barefooted women on base glaring at tables, so how could he not notice? A similar jacket was swung over the back of her chair and had two pins on it that he couldn’t make out well. She wiped sweat from her brow. She held a strange button and clicked it occasionally when the other girl would say something, and it didn’t seem like she could see him. 

Behind her, there was a tall dark skinned man. He had black hair that was shaved and brushed into waves and wore two shiny studs in his ears. A defined jaw that looked exhausted added to his handsome qualities. It seemed exhaustion was a common trait around here. He has the same coat as the other two but with a lab coat over it and circular rimmed glasses. He was writing something down on his clipboard at every single click of the button. Poe swallowed, wiped his hands down his front and suddenly felt incredibly nervous about Leia’s intentions.

“This is the science department. That girl on the table is Merca, that man is Forian, and as for her?,” she pointed a finger at the woman sitting at the table.

“She’s the head commander of this department.’’ Leia informed and this made him gulp in fear. He was starting to wish he took the grounding. 

Forian said something with a shocked expression, the two women looked at him blankly, then glanced back excitedly at each other. The Commander jumped up from her seat and screamed. Merca turned off the laser and jumped off the desk into the other girl's arms. They spun around and Forian joined in on the hug. They jumped around in excitement and then the Commander lost her footing, they all screamed and fell over. A floury of papers rose up from the ground. They all stood up laughing and hugging each other, seemingly giving congratulations. Then, Merca yawned and took off the thick gloves and goggles. Forian slipped off the lab coat and gave an especially tight hug to the Commander. They both shook her hands and smiled at her. 

“It’s time for you to say hello.” Leia’s knowing voice broke Poe out of his trance. She opened the door and she stepped in. Poe hesitated outside the door but took a deep breath and swallowed. Whatever this punishment, it was better than being locked in his bedroom or on base until Leia feels he learned his lesson. He took a bold step into the cool room and took in the sight in front  of him. The room was messier than it had appeared outside, there were scribbles of math that Poe couldn’t even try to wrap his head around written all over the place. 

Merca noticed them first. She opened her eyes while hugging the Commander and gasped before she hit Forian in his back and he turned around seeing Poe and Leia. Both scientists made a face that looked like they’d been caught breaking some deeply important rule. It made Poe laugh but he stifled it. Then, the Commander turned.

“What’s wrong?” Her voice was soft, and calming. For some reason it reminded him of when he would lay next to his mom and she would speak to him like he was the only thing in the galaxy. 

She turned around in confusion, and then went completely stiff. A look of shock that made him struggle not to laugh befell her face as she yanked her headband off and her hair fell down over her eyes like bangs. Pushing it back onto her head, she smoothed out her clothing and tried to look the most presentable she possibly could, like she didn’t just fall over a few minutes beforehand.

“Good evening General Leia. How may we assist you today?” The Commander bolted forwards to ask standing up perfectly straight. She seemed to ignore him, and that was all he wanted. Oh, he was so embarrassed, he felt like a kid being scolded by his mom infront of his friends. It was like every noise was modified. The humming noise of technology in the room, the rustle of papers still settling on the floor. He wished he could just be swallowed up into the floor.

“At ease Commander. As you know, this is Poe Dameron. He’s grown a bit restless in his position.”  Leia announced the man to the shorter woman but Poe was suddenly getting cold feet. Maybe it was the deep shame he felt. Was her plan to go around telling people he was a moron? That’s certainly humiliating if that was her plan.

With this, she glanced up at him and he avoided eye contact with her out of shame. He stole a quick glance, her eyes met his for a slight minute and he went back to avoiding eye contact. Curiosity filled her eyes as she slightly tilted her head. Leia was staring at him, the Commander was staring at him, the other two were staring at him. So many people just stared at him, and he was not fond of the attention.

“Commander, to commend you for your hard work, I’d like to reward you. You’ve been doing some important work, trying to create new gear for our troops. And you're so kindly assisting the medical team since we’ve been short some nurses. You are a very busy woman, no?”  The woman flushed in admiration. 

“I’m honored to help, it’s truly no issue.” The way she said it flooded with humbleness and behind her Merca and Forian began to whisper softly to each other. 

“Well, I still can’t feel right knowing you’re down here slaving away for the sake of helping keep our base running and pilots like Mr. Dameron up in the air. How about this? Until we can find someone to help you with all those busy tasks of yours, Poe here will be your personal assistant.” A sly grin came across Leia’s face and shock came across the scientist's face. Her jaw fell open and then closed, like she was struggling to find words.

“No, I don’t want to be a bother.” She protested quickly but Leia wasn’t having it. Placing a hand on the small of her back and leading her away she began to speak to the Scientist in hushed tones Poe couldn’t hear. He frowned deeply. A personal assistant. That’s something he never expected. Here he thought she was going to take him to be experimented on. But somehow this was worse. It was really nothing against a personal assistant, or against the woman herself. This was just so out of left field, even Leia seemed particularly proud of this idea. He should’ve taken the grounding.

Merca gasped softly and hid behind her hand as she and Forian began to immediately gossip about the situation. His cheeks burned with shame and he fought the urge to hide his face in his palms. Poe couldn’t do anything but stand there and watch the young woman be talked into accepting Poe as her assistant in front of him.

“Oh no! It’s fine, I don’t mind helping. I wouldn’t want to distract from his busy schedule.”  And Leia shook her head again, and once again insisted.

From here he’d have to be a kinder person. If this were him and he were given an assistant to handle his work indefinitely, he’d jump. Hell, he’s even pulled one too many all-nighters and considered breaking down Leia’s room door to cry about it to her. Yet this woman was refusing his help and he wanted to kiss her ass for it. 

However, her protests were for naught. Leia persisted, she moved strands of the scientist’s hair out of her face and smiled warmly at her. 

“No, he truly is excited. He’s decided that he just needs a break from constantly risking his life.” Her curt tone instantly silenced any protest. How do you protest General Leia? The simple answer is: You don't.

Anyone who knew Poe knew the General was lying through her teeth. Poe loved risking his life! It was number two on his list of top five favorite things, number one was always surviving after risking his life. Number three was watching shitty soap-dramas.

“Well…if he doesn’t mind.” The woman mumbled and glanced back to face him. She looked embarrassed and Poe almost had to ask her why SHE was embarrassed, like she was the one who had to become a P.A. until Leia decided he wouldn’t be.

“Of course he doesn’t, do you Poe?” Leia snapped her fingers and motioned for him to come close to her. He took a few long strides, still trying to keep his confident appearance up but he was still burning up with shame.

“Of course. I’m so excited to observe your hard work.” He said stiffly through gritted teeth. His brown eyes caught her wide eyes and she began to fidget. She nodded her head.

“Any more objections?” Leia asked her and the scientist now had a warm blush across her face as she stared at the floor and shook her head no. Poe sighed and muttered a ‘no.’

“Good. I’ll leave you to it.” She smiled once more, turning to leave and regally strolling out of the room. Poe considered chasing after her and begging her to let him clean the toilets.

[niallerspayno]

Moments - Chapter Thirteen

Masterlist

June 7th - September 13th, 2015

The first few days after you left the tour feel like a blur. You’re wrapped in a cocoon of calm and solitude, far away from the chaos of the band, the media, and the constant emotional turmoil. Zayn has been a constant presence since you arrived in London, and his calm demeanor has been exactly what you need.

He checks in on you every day, making sure you're taking care of yourself. He’s surprisingly attentive, despite the fact that he’s still working on his own music. You help him where you can, using your expertise to give him advice on how to handle the business side of things, line up some events, and even bounce around some creative ideas for his new music.

"You're good at this," Zayn tells you one afternoon as you sift through a pile of emails and work on contracts. "I didn't know you'd be so... well, good at this. You should do it more often."

You laugh, rolling your eyes. "It’s just a matter of organization. Anyone can do it, really."

But Zayn isn’t convinced. “You have an eye for it. Ever thought about managing artists? I could use someone like you.”

The idea catches you off guard. You hadn’t thought about it before, but as you think about it, something about the prospect of diving into the music industry again stirs something inside you. It would be different than working with the boys—less personal, more business-focused. And you can’t deny the pull to stay involved in music, to do something you’re good at, something that excites you.

Over the next few weeks, you spend your days with Zayn, working on his music and keeping your mind occupied. The idea of being his manager sits on the back burner, and you don’t want to make any rash decisions yet. But you’re starting to seriously consider it, especially with how much it’s made you feel alive again. You don’t have to be a part of One Direction to continue being a part of the music world. And Zayn is supportive, offering encouragement every step of the way.

By the end of the first month, you’ve settled into a rhythm with Zayn, and you’ve had ample time to rest and reset. Your pregnancy is progressing steadily, and you feel like you’re starting to finally catch your breath. The constant whirlwind of emotions, the stress, the pressure of being involved with both Liam and Niall—it all feels so far away now. You’ve embraced a new sense of peace, a calm that you’ve never quite experienced before.

Zayn, ever the quiet support, has kept you grounded. There are some days when you feel a little too tired to do much, but Zayn makes sure you’re well taken care of—ordering your favorite food, picking up groceries, and even running errands for you.

The boys continue to check in every so often, but it’s clear that things have settled. They understand your decision to step back, and while they’re eager to have you back, they respect the space you need. You keep in touch with them, texting or calling, but you keep the details of your personal life—especially regarding Liam and Niall—brief.

Zayn has become your safe space. You’ve started helping him more and more with his music, and you’re seriously thinking about the offer he made. The idea of stepping into a managerial role, especially for an artist you care about, feels like a perfect fit. It would give you a sense of purpose and keep you engaged in the music industry, while still allowing you to take care of yourself and the baby.

By the time two months have passed, you're officially 30 weeks pregnant. Your belly is round and unmistakable now, and you’re starting to feel the weight of it as you go about your day. Zayn has continued to work hard, and you’ve done your best to keep up with him, even if you have to take more breaks to rest. Zayn has insisted on making sure you’re comfortable at all times—no long hours in the studio, no heavy lifting, nothing too strenuous.

One afternoon, as you sit in his studio listening to a new track he’s working on, you feel a sense of accomplishment. You’ve spent these two months recharging, rediscovering who you are outside of the band, and now you're helping Zayn build something fresh and exciting. Your decision to take time away from the band feels right.

"How about we take a break tonight?" Zayn suggests one evening. "You and me, just relax. No music, no work. Let’s go out for dinner, get some fresh air."

You smile at him, grateful for his understanding. "Sounds perfect."

As the weeks pass, the boys continue their tour in the States, wrapping up their American leg by September 12th. You’ve been in touch with Paul, who’s given his approval for you to take the full three months off—though you know he’s eager for you to return. But at 37 weeks pregnant, there’s no way you can fly back to the States. You’re stuck in London, but you’ve made peace with it. You’re exactly where you need to be, surrounded by supportive friends and focusing on the baby.

...

September 13th, 2015

The quiet of your flat has been your refuge these past couple of months, but today, the energy feels different. Today, everything’s about to change. The boys are coming back from their American leg of the tour, and while part of you has been looking forward to seeing them, another part is unsure. Things have been complicated—especially with Zayn having left the band and the unresolved tension between Liam and Niall. But here they are, back in London, and you're about to face it all head-on.

You hear the sounds of chatter and laughter just outside your door. You feel your pulse quicken as the door opens, revealing Paul first, followed by the boys. There’s something in the way they walk into your space—almost like they’re treading carefully, sensing the heaviness in the air.

They stop for a second when they see you, and despite everything, you can’t help but smile.

Louis is the first to break the silence, rushing over with his usual boisterous energy. “There she is!” he says, sweeping you into a bear hug, careful not to jostle you too much. He places dramatic kisses on both your cheeks, squeezing you tightly. “I missed you so much, girl. You’ve been holding down the fort without us?”

“Yeah, Lou, it’s been all quiet around here without you,” you reply with a small laugh, feeling a warmth fill your chest.

Harry steps in next, his smile softening when he sees you. He’s more measured than Louis, but just as affectionate. He wraps his arms around you gently, pulling you close for a brief, heartfelt hug. “It’s good to see you,” he says quietly, his voice warm. “How’s the little one?”

“Good,” you say, a hand automatically going to your bump. “Not long left. We’re getting there.”

Liam and Niall, both a little more reserved, come in last. There’s something unspoken between them now—an understanding, a peace. They look at you, both with a mix of relief and uncertainty, but they’re careful not to crowd you. Liam, his face softer than it’s been in months, steps forward first.

He opens his arms, and when you step into his embrace, you feel the old familiarity. There’s no more tension—just warmth, the kind you’ve missed. He pulls you in slowly, as though he’s afraid of hurting you or the baby, but you pull back just enough to look him in the eye. “I’ve missed you,” you say softly. “I’m glad you’re back.”

“I’ve missed you too,” Liam replies, his voice quiet but sincere. “And I’m sorry. For everything.”

You nod, understanding that the weight of everything that happened between you both is still there, but that it’s moving into the past. “It’s okay, Liam.”

Then it’s Niall’s turn. He moves in closer, his usual cocky demeanor tempered by a quiet concern. As he wraps his arms around you, you’re aware of the way he adjusts his touch, careful around your growing bump. There’s a tenderness in his gaze, and when he whispers, “You okay?” you feel like the world has slowed down for just a moment.

“I’m good,” you reply, smiling up at him. “Better now that you’re here.”

Louis, still holding onto his over-the-top energy, breaks the moment with a loud laugh. “Alright, alright, I think we’ve had enough of the mushy stuff. Let’s get to the real business—food, right? I’m starving!”

Before anyone can respond, the door shifts slightly, and Zayn steps into the room, looking a little out of place. There’s a hesitation in his eyes as he surveys the group, the tension palpable. His gaze meets yours, and for a moment, the air is thick with unspoken words. He’s been gone for so long, and though he’s here, it’s clear there’s still some distance to be crossed.

You take a step toward him, and despite everything that’s happened, there’s a comfort in his presence. “Zayn,” you say softly, your voice barely above a whisper. He steps forward cautiously, and you’re both aware of the silent understanding that now lies between you two.

The boys stand back, watching the moment between you two. There’s a shared understanding now that Zayn was a big part of your healing, and while things between him and the others are still a little strained, there’s an unspoken gratitude toward him for being there when no one else could be.

Louis steps forward first, his usual chaotic energy breaking the tension. “I’m glad you’re here, Zayn,” he says, reaching forward to give him a half hug, slapping him on the back. “But don’t think you’re off the hook for not being here when we needed you.”

Zayn offers a small, apologetic smile, but the weight of his absence seems to hang in the air. “I know,” he says, his voice quiet but sincere. “I’m sorry for that.”

The group falls into an awkward silence for a moment before Paul, who’s been quietly observing the reunion, steps in. “Alright, everyone. Let’s not make this too complicated. We’re all here now. Let’s just focus on the good.”

The boys nod in agreement, and you feel a collective sense of relief as the energy in the room starts to shift. Despite the awkwardness, despite everything that’s happened, you’re all back together in this moment.

As the hugs and greetings continue, you notice that Liam and Niall are still careful around your bump, their hands hovering gently over your belly when they give you a quick squeeze or touch. There’s a soft understanding in their eyes, a silent promise that they’re there for you.

“You’ve got this, yeah?” Louis says with a grin, winking as he looks at you. “We’ll take care of you. You’re not getting away from us that easily.”

You smile at him, feeling a bit of the weight lift from your shoulders. “I’m glad to have all of you back,” you say, your hand resting over your bump. “We’ve made it this far. Together.”

And as you stand there, surrounded by the band, Paul, and Zayn, you can’t help but feel a quiet sense of peace settle over you. There’s still much to figure out, but in this moment, with everyone here, you know you don’t have to do it alone.

...

September 14th, 2015

You wake up early, the soft morning light filtering in through the curtains. Your pregnancy is heavy now, and you find yourself shifting and adjusting in bed to find a comfortable position. You haven’t been able to sleep well the last few nights, your thoughts keeping you awake long into the quiet hours.

The clock reads just after seven when you finally decide to get up, your body craving something to do to distract from the pressure building around you. You stretch slowly, trying to ease the discomfort in your lower back. The boys have plans to meet up for rehearsals later, and though you’re tempted to keep your distance today, you know they’ll be checking in on you constantly—just as they’ve been doing ever since you’ve gotten back.

You make your way to the kitchen, letting the quiet of your flat wrap around you as you prepare your morning coffee. You can’t help but notice that, for the first time in a while, the house feels empty. Zayn’s offer still lingers in your thoughts, and with so much going on in your life, the decision feels so heavy.

As you're sipping your tea, there's a knock at the door. You know immediately who it is. Without hesitation, you open the door to find Niall standing there, his usual grin softened by a look of concern.

"Morning," he says, stepping in without waiting for an invitation. "How are you feeling today?"

"I'm fine," you say, but you can tell he doesn't buy it. He’s been hovering around you since you got back, though not quite as openly as before. It’s clear he’s trying to give you space, but you both know he’s struggling to stay away.

“Anything I can do to help?” Niall asks, glancing over to the couch, where he clearly expects to be parked for a few hours.

You consider his question for a moment, knowing he’s not asking just about today’s comfort but something deeper. It’s been a while since you’ve spoken to him alone, and his presence feels oddly grounding. But the weight of the silence that’s been between the two of you since the confrontation with Liam is still lingering.

“No, I’m okay,” you reply, offering a small, tight smile. “Just... thinking.”

"About what?" Niall asks, taking a step closer. “If you need to talk about anything, I’m here. You know that.”

You bite your lip, unsure whether to open up about the decision you’re facing with Zayn. You’ve been keeping it to yourself, not ready to share your thoughts with anyone just yet. But something in Niall’s eyes makes you reconsider. He’s not the one you’re afraid of talking to—it’s Liam. But here, now, with Niall standing in front of you, you can’t ignore the need to get the weight off your chest.

“I—” you start, and then pause. It’s harder than you thought to say it aloud. “Zayn offered me a job. To be his manager. And... I’m just not sure what to do. I’ve been thinking about it a lot. It’s just... so much to take in, and I don’t know what it means for the baby, for the band, for everything.”

Niall looks at you thoughtfully for a moment, processing your words. “I think Zayn’s got a good head on his shoulders. He’s not the same guy he was when he left. If you’re happy with it, then I don’t see why not. But... I can tell you’re conflicted, and I get it. It’s a big change.”

“Exactly,” you agree, your hand resting on your bump. “But I don’t want to just throw everything away. The band... it’s been my whole life. But at the same time, I need to think about what’s best for me and the baby.”

There’s a pause before Niall speaks again, his voice quieter now, but with an unmistakable sincerity. “You need to do what’s best for you. And if you feel like this is it... then go for it. I’ll support you no matter what. And so will Liam.”

You look up at him in surprise. "Liam? You think he'd be okay with it?"

He gives a small shrug. "He’s been quieter, more... reflective lately. But you know he cares. He’s just trying to figure it out too. The three of us, we’ve all got our own stuff we’re working through."

You nod, feeling the weight of his words. It’s been a while since you’ve had a proper conversation with Liam—since everything happened. You can feel the tension between you both, but the idea that he might still care, still want what’s best for you, even if it’s in a different way now, brings a small spark of hope.

Before you can say more, there’s a knock at the door again. This time, it’s Louis, popping his head in with a mischievous grin.

“Morning!” he announces, clearly oblivious to the serious conversation that’s just unfolded. "We’re all meeting up for lunch. Paul says we should have a group sit-down to figure out tour stuff, but he also mentioned you might be joining us. Is that still happening?”

You glance at Niall, who gives you an encouraging smile. “Sure,” you say, giving a small nod. "I’ll be there."

Niall leans back against the doorframe, his eyes lingering on you for a moment before he speaks again. “We’ll figure it out, yeah? Whatever you decide, you’re not alone in this.”

You meet his gaze, the moment hanging in the air before Louis, oblivious to the weight of the conversation, starts up again. "Alright, let's get moving. I’m starving, and Harry's been complaining about the lack of food for hours."

As they both head off to join the others, you feel a small but significant shift inside you. The decision still looms large, but there’s a comfort in knowing that, no matter what, you’re not doing it alone.

...

The lunch is held in one of the quieter rooms of the hotel, away from the usual bustle of tour preparations. The long table is covered with an assortment of foods, but you barely notice it, your focus on the conversation unfolding in front of you. Niall, Louis, and Harry are already chatting animatedly as you take a seat next to Liam, who looks up at you with a mixture of curiosity and care. There’s an air of nervous anticipation between the group—everyone’s senses heightened, knowing today is the day you’ll finally share what’s been weighing on your mind.

As you settle into your seat, Paul steps in last, taking his place at the head of the table with an air of calm authority. There’s a moment of silence before you finally speak up, your voice slightly wobbly as you look around at the familiar faces—faces that have been with you through everything.

“I—uh, I need to tell you all something,” you begin, hesitating for a split second as you glance down at your bump. "Zayn... he’s offered me a job. To be his manager. He wants me to help him with his music and, well... a lot of things. I’ve been thinking about it for a while now."

The table goes still for a moment, and the silence stretches out just long enough for you to feel the weight of everyone’s eyes on you. Niall’s eyebrows furrow in surprise, Liam looks contemplative, and Harry shifts in his seat, clearly processing the news. Louis is the first to speak, his voice tinged with excitement.

“Wait, what?” Louis blurts out. “Zayn? Our Zayn? He wants you to manage him? That’s huge, mate!”

You nod slowly, meeting his gaze. “Yeah. It is. It’s just... a big decision. And with everything going on, I’m not sure what to do. I’m still processing it all.”

There’s a beat of silence again, and Paul is the next one to speak, his tone calm and measured as always. “It’s a great opportunity for you, but let’s not pretend it’s without its challenges. Being Zayn’s manager could be amazing for your career—it could really set you up. But that’s a big responsibility, especially now, with the baby coming. You’ll be on your own for most of it, and that’s something to think about. Who will be there to support you when you need it? You’ll have a newborn, and you might feel a bit isolated.”

You chew on Paul’s words, his voice steady and reassuring despite the gravity of what he’s saying. It’s true—becoming Zayn’s manager would be a huge leap forward, but it would mean stepping away from the safety net you’ve had with the band.

Liam finally breaks his silence, his voice soft but honest. “I think it’s a great opportunity too, but I get where Paul’s coming from. You’d be taking on a lot, especially so soon after the baby arrives. It’s a huge responsibility. And I just... I don’t want you to feel like you’re in over your head. We’ll be here for you, obviously, but I think you need to consider if you’ll be able to juggle everything. Not just the job, but being a mom, and everything else.”

His words hang in the air for a moment, and though he’s speaking with care, you can feel the underlying concern, especially after everything that’s happened between the two of you. Niall, always the supportive one, chimes in quickly, his tone gentle.

“You don’t have to make the decision today,” he reminds you. “We’re all here for you no matter what. If you want to go for it, we’ll support you. But like Paul said, there’s a lot to think about. You don’t have to rush it.”

You nod, grateful for their understanding. It’s clear they’re all a bit shocked by Zayn’s offer, but they want what’s best for you. You feel a warmth in your chest knowing that they’re all looking out for you, even if you haven’t spoken to them about it much since your return.

The conversation shifts slightly, and Louis, ever the one to lighten the mood, grins at you.

“Well, we can’t let you go without some more important baby talk!” he says. “We need to start planning names, right?”

A small chuckle escapes you, and you nod, grateful for the change in tone. It’s like a collective exhale fills the room as the focus shifts. Harry jumps in next.

“Have you guys thought about names yet?” he asks, leaning forward with genuine interest. “I bet you’ve got a list a mile long.”

You pull out your phone and scroll through the ultrasound photos you’ve been meaning to share with them. As you show the first image to the group, there’s an immediate wave of excitement from the band.

“Look at that,” Niall says, his eyes softening. “She’s already got a little personality in there, doesn’t she?”

Liam leans in closer to look at the photo, his hand instinctively reaching out to rest on your arm. “She’s going to be so beautiful,” he murmurs, the quiet sentiment unmistakable. His eyes flicker to yours for a brief moment, but the tension is there again, an unspoken understanding between you two.

Louis nudges Harry and grins. “She’s going to have our musical talent, obviously,” he teases. “We’ll have to teach her the ropes. Maybe she’ll join the band when she’s a bit older.”

You laugh softly, feeling the warmth of their presence around you. The room is filled with light chatter, and for the first time in what feels like a long time, there’s no tension. Just the comfort of being with people who care.

As the conversation drifts to possible baby names, you feel the weight of your decision pull back just a little. Zayn’s offer is still in the back of your mind, but right now, it’s easy to forget everything else and focus on the small things—the future, the baby, and the sense of home you have with these people.

"Have you thought about any names yet?" Paul asks, breaking into the conversation again, his voice steady.

You shake your head slightly, not yet sure. “Nothing solid yet. I’m thinking something classic... but I haven’t settled on anything. Maybe a name that reflects both of their cultures,” you add, looking at Liam and Niall.

Liam smiles softly, giving a nod of approval. “I like that idea.”

“We should definitely have a little list for you to pick from,” Louis pipes up. “Maybe we’ll help you out with suggestions!”

You feel a warmth in your chest as the banter continues, and for the first time in a while, you can just relax. The decision about Zayn’s offer will come later. For now, it’s about being here in the moment, surrounded by the people who matter the most.

Next chapter

[enkisstories]

The next morning the hut was still standing.

But pretty much everything else had fallen apart.

Ruin didn't notice anything odd. They were just going on an early morning ride.

Armitage: "General Dameron!"

Poe: "Oh, no. Not again! Not before I had a caf. Or a calming valerian tea for you."

Armitage: "I removed a number of members from the Supreme Council tonight and now have seats to fill. Are you ready to shoulder some responsibility for the greater good?"

Poe: "Come again?! You're asking that to ME, after I spent the last few years performing damage control while you went rampaging all over the galaxy?"

Kes: "Poe think!"

Poe: "I'm thinking way too much already! He..."

Kes: "Armitage, hand you two's shared brain cell to Poe, please. He needs it more than you now."

Poe: "Hey!"

While Poe protests, Hux smiles. How different from when his own father had accused the boy of having half a brain only Kes is sounding! So playful, with the underlying reassurance that despite the jab both "boys" are included in the family beyond any doubt. How "included" could be something desirable... After all, Armitage is a cut above! But here he is, smiling at being part of something, trying to fade out the fact that this "something" are his enemies.

Armitage: "Kes? I'll be away from Batuu for a while. Knowing there's a place where I'm welcome to return to is... It's still unfamiliar. Thank you."

Poe: "Alright, alright, let's forget the phrasing, nevermind that you deserve a serious beating for it. Did you really just offer me a spot in the First Order's ruling entity?"

Armitage: "The council only has advisory function. But you heard me correctly. Your General rank from when we mind-tricked you never got revoked. You qualify."

Poe: "By that logic Finn should get a seat, too! As a deserter he is a criminal First Order subject, but a subject still. And Rose, too, seeing that she comes from an occupied world."

Armitage: "...but I told him that I had other plans I wanted to ask you for your assistance with. Take these documents, Finn, but only open them if I don't return from Chandrila. I'd rather talk their contents over with you in person."

Finn: "Are these the files you found yesterday? The ones that threw you off balance so badly?"

Armitage: "Yes."

Finn: "Am I... Are they detailing more of project Necromancer?"

Armitage: "Nothing of that sort! No need to worry. Your force sensitivity is a perfectly natural occurence. No little Palpatine here other than Rey."

Finn: "Alright. In this case I can wait to learn what's in there."

And finally... the most painful of the goodbyes.

Armitage: "I completely replaced the council, just like the New Republic demanded. The Finalizer will be here by midday, then we'll set off to Chandrila for the peace negotiations. You're welcome to fly with us, although using your own transport would probably be wiser, given the possible implications of a leading Resistance officer traveling with me."

Rose: "That's exactly why I'm going to stay behind. I'm biased."

Armitage: "You're doing WHAT? But... Ever since Crait, we were never separated! Even as enemies... we... always... crossed paths..."

Rose: "And we'll do so again. But the Resistance needs me. And I don't want to do something stupid. It's safer this way."

Armitage: This makes too much sense. If Poe and me should fly into our doom, Finn and you can be together and keep our memory alive.

[overflowchute]

took me about an hour and a half to learn and perform this only to die to the boss cheesing me as usual. really this probably doesn't look that hard but let me tell you starting without powerups makes this level absolutely miserable. the random elements are painful. the primary problem with practicing like anything air duel should be fairly obvious from my actions - there's no auto fire. every damn shot is my tapping that button. to some degree this is fine, but as you practice very rigid segments it gets hard and the enemies in this game take a lot of hits to die until you get powered up. that's where the gameplay style starts to really impact everything.

air duel is subscribes to the venerable raiden style of shmup design, where the patterns aren't dense but you're slow and bullets are fast. your hitbox is quite large so if you're too close to an enemy you really can't dodge. and bullets are your speed which makes panic dodges a lot harder issues. there's no side scrolling so it's not quite raiden tier but the game design still enjoys "sniper-tank" enemy types. and that's where everything starts to /really/ hurt, because the gameplay is super focused on eliminating everything in order of danger as quickly as humanly possible. WHICH gets a little troublesome for the ol carpal tunnel because your only real way to do this slamming that fire button a million times per second. this is fundamentally air duel's greatest issue for me, although i also think it's probably its most defining feature.

the very beginning is easy, but wears on you b/c you lose most attempts at 0:26-1:00. if you keep it under control it looks simple but the boats in this segment are nasty and they can fire at very random times, if the powerup enemy or some boats live around 35 you die! once you get the first powerup you're not out of the woods yet, you really need to spray down at least one side of the bulky guys that shoot pellets so they dont cheese you. then we meet the green tanks and these fuckers are ALSO "kill at all costs" threats lol

1:04 i did react a little but honestly the dodge was pure dumb luck lmao. at this point we get the 2nd and 3rd powerup stage and killing things becomes a bit easier, and they give us a small popcorn section to let us rest the hand for a split second before, oop, back to the mines! 1:25 we have a combination of the boats and the tanks, i think the boats are still the absolute #1 threat because if they get past you it's really hard to track the sources of shots whereas the tanks you have a bit more time to handle. it doesnt let up much from here on. 1:34 brings in one of the game's favorite obnoxious damage sponges, these bigass tanks with like 4 weapons on them, and introduces us to the big boats while we're at it. everyone here becomes a real damage sponge check where you just have to go all in constantly. i cut it rly close at 2:10

the final wave at 2:14 is, again, deceptively hard. you have to be fucking scurrying all over that goddamn screen to kill every boat because again the moment any of them gets past the halfway mark your only option is staying far away and hoping you get lucky. notice also the way the enemies create a wave of synchronized bullets around 2:30. this is an artifact of the fact that the bullets are all identical speed and if this happens in a bad position or while you're trying desperately to wipe the row you're gonna just get hit sometimes, it's like that

and then the boss. here's where i die and do, in fact, bomb despite the title - i figure after my death nothing really matters anyway. the first phase is easy and at max powerup dies before doing anything. the next phase is odd. the missiles are much easier to kill at 3 powerups. but they're like, really really annoying, and if you're not careful you can leave a front row shutter alive and that really complicates your dodging requirements. the missiles increase in speed and aim halfway down the screen which isnt too tough at lv 3 but is really hard to beat at lv 1. here i kinda fuck up slightly cuz id never made it to the boss at 3 powerups before and i really didnt know exactly how to adjust my movements to handle that, and uh, end up dying. after that i kinda just give up and double bomb to get it out of the way b/c its just REALLY rough to survive at 0

overall, this is the difficulty jump level and i don't really like it very much. there's vaguely enjoyable elements but the amount of tapping i have to do should be illegal and the boss is either boring or obnoxious as hell with no inbetween. stage 4 is the best stage in the game i think but you have to get through here to get there. such is the way of air duel

[dragonmasterhiccup]

(oh trust me, it was FANTASTIC AND SO ACCURATE 🥲)

Freya tapped on her arm, worried that she might've said too much or something out of line, holding her breath as she waited for a response. Once he gave it, she sighed out in relief, faintly nodding her head with a small chuckle. "Yeah, I think I got the idea that you were pretty unconscious, Hiccup."

She expected him to talk more, but upon hearing nothing but silence from him, she glanced back at his face with a questioning blink. She could tell he was thinking about something, and she earnestly hoped that she wasn't the cause for it..if it was negative. Slowly tapping her leg, Freya began to realize that she hadn't spent any time with, or even around, Hiccup for nearly her whole life. Especially when she found out he was friends with a Night Fury. She harboured up so much resentment and bitterness towards him that she didn't acknowledge the years that swiftly went by; the ones where she practically ignored the future Chief's existence.

She knew that, if she were to be completely honest with herself, there was still a grudge that she held towards it all - about the topic of dragons being brought to Berk. Now, however, there wasn't any clear vision as to who she held it for. There was a constant reminder, like a distant bell, that told her of her failure and what she couldn't do, as well as what she didn't. 'There could've been so many more freed dragons if I had just..said something.' She told herself, remembering the times when she forced herself to train and prepare for the day she'd really kill a dragon.

Freya wasn't ignorant about the gruesome things Vikings had to do before in order to keep themselves alive; the violent mornings they'd have to wake up to on most days as teenagers, hearing screams and shouts that alerted the whole island of Berk that there was yet another invasion of dragons trying to steal their food, as well as destroy their homes. Being apart of a family with Ragnar as her father, she often witnessed him fight dragons in a way that was frequently mentioned as similar to how Stoick would handle it.

Despite what she internally desired, she stood by and watched it all happen.

'What a disappoinment.'

Shaking her head to come out of her own daze, Freya fumbled over her words for a moment as Hiccup asked what she had said, "U-uhm, it's nothing, don't worry about it." Quite frankly, she didn't entirely remember what she spoke.

-----------------

She noticed it. The distant look on Hiccup's face as it appeared he was still in thought about something. It seemed to decrease, though, once they were in the cove. She knew for a fact that she wasn't the best at comforting, so she swung her arms for a moment as she glanced at the Chief's son, watching him reassure Toothless about something. She was curious as to what was on his mind, but her conscious told her not to be so nosey.

Lightly snorting at the dragon spit that Toothless left behind on his rider's face, Freya was glad that...whatever the earlier mood was, was starting to leave. "Ew, don't tell me I have to spar with you while you're covered in that." She briefly cracked her fingers, releasing any hidden tension in her bones, "I much prefer to stay clean while I train, thank you." Sweat was one thing, dragon spit, however, was another. And she certainly did not want that to touch her.

Rolling her eyes at his correction, she faked a yawn, slowly striding towards Hiccup as he prepared his sword, carefully unsheathing her own in the process, "Yeah, yeah, whatever it's called. That thing." Making sure the weapon was properly fitted in her hand, she gripped it with a tight hold, examining his sword as it began to light on fire. She used the short window of time to get closer, at least a decent amount, to give her a small headstart. If she hadn't, she'd probably be left with the option to run all the way up to him, and that would only give him an extra advantage.

Humming out her agreement, Freya gave no verbal response as she briefly smiled, quickly changing her demeanour while she swiftly lifted her sword, clashing it against his. She faintly grunted at the impact, returning the same smile in a goading manner, "So, some first couple of tips if you end up sparring against my dad.." She took a slight step back, thrusting her blade in a downward motion to get Hiccup's sword away from her range of space, "He likes to try and get you off your feet more than he does in trying to get the sword out of your hands."

She didn't mention that she also liked doing that, but she would often try and go both ways in the equation. Hastily moving out of the way, Freya raised her sword to block another attack, firmly planting her feet down in the ground to make sure she wouldn't stumble. Slightly grinning despite the flames that were in a closer distance, her amber eyes sparked with an excitement that she only found in sparring, "Okay, that sword is pretty cool." She muttered, making sure her breath came out in steady patterns.

She saw an opening that could potentially make him trip, causing her to abruptly push Hiccup's sword away from hers, instantaneously stepping to his side and swiping her foot underneath his. With a solid plan in mind, though, she expeditiously reached out one of her hands and firmly grabbed ahold of his arm so he wouldn't actually fall. Once she registered that she had a good enough grip on him so that he was still standing, Freya felt the corner of her lips tilt upward before she spoke: "I'm also kind of like my dad when it comes to this."

Letting him go, she attempted to taunt him with a mischievous smirk, "You got any other moves up your sleeve? Cause it looks like you're not getting your cloth back anytime soon.." She gave that statement running off of adrenaline, enjoying every second of sparring each time she did it.

What she didn't notice, was Blaze glancing back at his rider with perked ears, confused for a moment as to why she had a sword out against Hiccup, but once he sensed that Freya wasn't serious, he relaxed a bit more and flicked his tail at Toothless, gesturing his head towards the two with a smug ruffle to his wings.

What had felt like a heavy, dark cloud resting on his shoulders now lifted as he watched Toothless excitedly run off to join Blaze.

He couldn't spend too long focusing on the past, because what good would that do? He also didn't want to trouble Freya with any of that, either.

Hearing her snort, Hiccup turned to look at her, a little confused until she explained what she was reacting to.

"Oh," He reached into his armor, where that cloth was usually kept, only to realize he'd given it to Freya. Giving her a look, he playfully said, "Yeah, if only I had something to clean it off with...too bad it's currently being held hostage..."

Instead, he used his hands to wipe it off his face, flinging it in the opposite direction of Freya before kneeling down by the water, scooping it up in his hands to wash his face off.

Getting back to his feet, he dried off his hands, though some water still dripped down his face, he spread his arms out, giving a lopsided grin. "Clean enough for you?"

His sword ready, he could hear her approaching footsteps and hum of agreement.

Knowing this was Freya, he raised his sword up just in time to block her swing. The flames illuminated his face as he raised a brow. "Start off strong, don't you?"

Oh, he hadn't expected any advice for sparring with Ragnar. Intrigued, he listened as best he could, while blocking her blows.

"The handy thing is," He took a step closer, since she'd stepped back, "I'm typically used to being off balance. That's a good thing to keep in mind, though."

The fact that it wasn't a typical blade, and really only the outline of one made it better suited for defense, rather than offense. The flames gave him an edge, though.

He couldn't ignore the way her eyes looked, though.

It brought that warm, fuzzy feeling back, though it didn't last, as they were in combat.

It lasted just long enough though that he faltered, giving an opening he usually wouldn't have, and she took advantage of that.

He could feel himself waver, struggling to regain his balance, when he felt her grab his arm and keep him from falling.

"Thanks," Ah. So she would try the same thing. Honestly, he should've expected that.

"Ah, well, I've got a few, actually..." He grinned, ready for more. "But you'll have to experience it for yourself"

Toothless looked away from the fish he was watching, turning his attention to what Blaze was pointing out.

The dragon could see their riders sparring, and even from there Toothless could see the smile on Hiccup's face. After the mood shift he'd sensed in his longtime friend earlier, Toothless relaxed a bit, knowing Hiccup was feeling better now.

Looking to Blaze, Toothless pointedly looked at the dragon riders before turning back to the sand wraith, waggling his eyebrows to signify that something more was going on with the humans.

They continued sparring for a bit, until Hiccup saw the opening he needed.

Angling his sword just right, her sword blade got between the metal bars of his, and with a twist of his wrist, her sword was loosed from her grip, falling to the ground.

Holding up his sword, he said, "The flames make you forget it's not shaped like a typical sword, gives me some advantages when it comes to disarming my opponent."

Picking up her sword, he handed it back to her.

"Again?"

[optimalmongoose4]

Report under the keep reading.

Aight so his name is Samuel and he's from an Earth with an extra continent called Soligium, because of some complicated plot reasons time passes 2x faster on it relative to the rest of Earth. Because of this and also some historical reasons Soligium, in particular the capital city, Argae, is far ahead in technology. Argae is, complicated to say the least, in many ways, it's a utopia there's universal basic income and guaranteed basic needs for its citizens, but it is also extremely isolationist, barely interacting with the rest of the continent and having little to no communication with the rest of the world most of the time. The culture of the city is also extremely competition-focused, basically a mindset of if you're not the best at something you're worthless. The crown jewel so to speak of Argae's technology is their mind-computer interfaces, which is what it sounds like, hooking your brain up to a computer, and while you can control computers with your mind it goes both ways, they've figured out how to alter and control people's minds with computers.

Samuel, surprisingly isn't a native to Argae but does live there. The process for getting into Argae is extremely complicated, the main thing about it though is that when you leave they use a mind-computer interface to wipe your memories of your time in the city, these can be restored if you reenter the city. So our boy Samuel is an information smuggler, he gets into Argae gets information on its technology and stuff, and finds ways of getting it out of the city, in the eyes of the governing body of Argae this is the worst possible crime one can commit. So eventually he's caught and almost immediately sentenced to death, how they do the death penalty though is quite interesting, essentially they wipe your brain and implant another consciousness they like better into it. This is also why I said his hair length varies because in order to use a mind-computer you gotta shave your head.

Anyway, something goes wrong in his execution, and his mind isn't wiped, all the information for the new mind is there, but it's still Samuel, so he pretends everything went well and he's not Samuel anymore. Time passes and eventually, Samuel reignites the embers of an old revolutionary group and finds himself laying siege on an experimental technology research facility. Being pursued by guards, almost certainly going to be murdered if he's caught, he jumps into an uncalibrated untested teleporter.

Bad news: he's on some random planet, good news: he's safe and it seems he no longer has a need to eat, drink, breathe, sleep, or anything like that. This is because of Spacetime Energy (More commonly referred to as Multiversal Energy [Despite the fact a multiverse, as one is currently defined hadn't actually been established at the time the term was coined] or just Energy), Energy simply put is the base building block of all things, unravel an atom and eventually you get energy. It's basically a miracle substance, it can do all sorts of things, including making people functionally immortal, it's fueled humanity's exponential growth across the universe for many many years, and the best part is that it naturally creates more of itself over time. So Samuel has become whats called energy-dependent which means his body has absorbed so much energy it is now using it to fuel itself, now due to the aforementioned growing properties as long as he doesn't overexert himself and use too much energy he should stay alive forever.

He's stuck on the planet for a couple hundred years, which for the immortal beings humanity has become thats like, a week to them, but not for Samuel, it fucks with him a lot. Samuel becomes a "Vessel of The Lost", so there are these things called Lost Consciousnesses, which are minds, for various reasons, have been separated from a body, Vessels take these minds into themselves and then transport them to new bodies. His work as a Vessel takes him all over the universe, and once he gets past the initial wonder of these vast civilizations and megastructures and wonderful technology, there's something disturbing underneath it all.

The best word Samuel can find for the universe's current state is stagnant. The truth is that humanity has basically done everything already, they've "perfected" life, no one really has a purpose anymore, they're only alive because it's all they know. It's not even like people are happy in their own way, as god of this world I can say the vast majority of people are just, bored. Of course there are people with purposes and goals and meanings in their lives, but these people are few and far between.

Samuel finds a group though, The Hunter's Game (there is a beautifully tragic story to how this group started but alas it is too long to tell now lmao). Basically, The Hunter's Game is a network of people, people in this network attempt to hunt down and kill each other. Observing this group Samuel finds people who are having fun with life, they've found a meaning, and so Samuel signs up. In doing this he has to stop being an actual Vessel, as if he's killed while carrying a lost one then another person who didn't sign up to the game is killed, he does though still help other Vessels in his free time.

Samuel is honestly kinda mid at the game, he's not bad at it, if he was he'd be dead, but he's not really good at it either. Anyways Samuel, while tracking another hunter finds the Iterative Mind Project. This project was set up by The Lab, which is the largest organization in the universe, it's absolutely ancient, and basically kind of all powerful, it doesn't really exercise that power all that much though, it just kind of lets the universe do it's thing most of the time, taking care of threats to it as neccesary. The I.M.P is dedicated to creating smarter and smarter artificial minds, it was the source of the first sentient artificial minds, but it was long forgotten about by The Lab. The important thing is though, it has unrestricted access to The Lab's information archive, which is basically the sum total of all knowledge ever collected, and there's some heavily classified shit in there. Anyways Samuel downloads a copy of the archive and leaves The Hunter's Game.

He spends a long time looking through the archive, and when he's done he starts a war. Basically, it brings awareness to the meaninglessness of life and encouraging people to start destroying as much stuff and information as possible. The thing is, this plan works, The Destroyers (as his followers would come to be called) have the meaning of destruction, and the resistors to him have a meaning of rebuilding and fighting against The Destroyers, his war is viewed ironically as basically a wholly good thing. The Lab leaves him alone until he starts targeting their facilities, when this happens he's kidnapped and brought to a secret location. His captors, he would find are two people, Mechea, who is the current head of the lab, and Newton Catcher, the previous head of the lab, he technically holds no official title but still holds A LOT of influence, he's also basically the main character of the universe. The two explain that unless he stops calling for attacks on The Lab they're going to have to exile, imprison, or if things go very bad, kill him. Samuel explains it would be in their best interest to do none of those things, he's set up a sort of dead man's switch.

When people die in this world they leave behind something called an imprint, think of it basically as a ghost. The standard procedure used to be just to destroy the imprints but then Newton came along and thought that was fucked up and established the Afterlife Complex, it is the single largest project ever built and uses approximately 50% of The Lab's total resources at any given moment. It's essentially a giant building far away from any civilization that draws in imprints and for most of them allows them to have basically total freedom in what they do. Now the thing is Newton is really afraid of the existence of this getting out, if it did it would probably lead to everyone in the universe just kind of killing themselves to get in, so Newton encoded a failsafe deep into the core of the project. If someone has known about the afterlife at any point in their lives, their imprint is destroyed.

Samuel's dead man's switch hinges on this fact, see he learned about the afterlife from the archive, and from now on, if he is imprisoned, exiled, killed, or otherwise incapacitated the switch goes off and its set up to essentially systematically inform the entire universe of the afterlife with undeniable proof. With this Newton and Mechea's hands are tied and they're kind of just forced to let him go do his thing.

So the situation keeps escalating, and it culminates in Samuel infecting himself with a specially engineered virus, that can not only infect and destroy people, but information and physical objects as well, setting himself on fire, carrying the dying and partially cannibalized body of a god, and jumping into the Pit of Chaos on an alternate version of Earth with several explosive devices strapped to him. This results in that virus mutating into this hivemind-like organism ravaging the universe, in The Destroyer's eyes giving meaning to the universe, and as a bonus setting off the dead mans switch, making death a permanent threat to most people.

There was a lot more detail I couldve gone into but this was already long enough lmao.

Unsurprisingly I have made yet another OC who is a pretty boy who Kills. Which seems like something that would interest you.

How long is his hair

[just-another-siimp]

Surface Pressure 141 x Reader HCs

Just a dumb bunch of thoughts about the 141st members reacting to their S/O giving them a massage, i crave fluff so i'm writing it for myself. If you guys like this please reblog! It gives me my daily serotonin boost.

word count: 1.3k Warnings: Unsure, if you find any let me know <3.

Captain John Price

We all know that as Captain, John is under a lot of pressure to not only keep his team alive but to get results.

A lot of the stress that he has is held in his shoulders, it doesn't help that post mission he spent a lot of his time hunched over a desk completing reports.

Massages often helped.

You often bought him coffee in the early hours of the morning, strong and dark the perfect combination to get him through the rest of his reports.

Even with exhaustion hanging over you, you'd stay by his side. Keeping him company until he joined you in bed.

You sat on your phone, idly scrolling through the news trying to catch up on the normal of aspects of life you missed while deployed. In the three months since you'd been away there was another royal scandal, the clicking of keys stopped drawing your attention away from the click bait article you'd been occupying yourself with.

Looking up you noticed how John rubbed his shoulder, sighing as he checked over his work before turning to you. When your eyes met he smiled and you practically melted, rolling the chair closer to his side in order to steal a kiss to the cheek before you lost him to his reports again.

"I'm almost done, love. Won't be long now." Your hand reached out to his, squeezing gently as you stood fingers sliding up his arm and the shoulder he'd been rubbing just moments prior. Wordlessly you added a small amount of pressure, both hands now gently massaging the tension away. John leaned back in his chair, head lulling to the side as his hands reached up to hold yours. In a matter of seconds he'd completely melted in his chair, blue eyes staring lovingly up at you.

"You've been sitting at this desk too long, dear." "Hmm if you keep this up I'll never get the reports done."

"That's the point."

Kyle 'Gaz' Garrick

Gaz always has an air of 'calm' surrounding him, it's the reason why you'd fallen in love with him. Even under pressure he never seemed to crack, though that didn't change the fact that even he could grow angry and frustrated.

Anger was often a result of exhaustion, nightmares, aching limps keeping him awake or the worst possible thing. Your young neighbours throwing a house party at 2am on a tuesday.

You'd hate to admit it but even you were growing tense with the near constant thudding of bass boosted music. The party did eventually end, only with police intervention. Which was probably for the best, because if either of you had gone next door it would not have been a nice encounter.

Even after the nights drama Gaz couldn't sleep, he'd continued to toss and turn next to you. No amounts of spooning able to quench the frustration he felt.

Gaz had gotten up to get a glass of water from the kitchen, you sat up listening to the sound of footsteps padding back into the room. He gave you an apologetic smile as he placed the glasses down, that's when you realised. He'd bought you water too. This man was far too sweet to be real.

"Sorry to wake you Sweetheart."

"Come 'ere"

Your voice was coated in sleep, soft and sweet as you reached out for him. As he knelt down on the bed he pulled you into a kiss, something soft and sweet hidden within all of his anger and frustration.

"Lay down."

"Is that an order?" He's smirking at you, you're rolling your eyes at him. Despite the sass he still lays down, on his stomach. Fingers tugging lightly at the shirt you wore, it belonged to him once upon a time. Doing your best not to accidentally knee Kyle in the ribs you straddled his back, hands running down his back.

"Don't be a shit, Kyle."

"Yes ma'am."

In a matter of seconds he was putty in your hands, muscles relaxing under your expert hands as they pushed out the knots in his back. Fifteen minutes later he was fast asleep, with you laying on his back like a weighted blanket. Both finally sleeping peacefully.

Simon 'Ghost' Riley

Ghost isn't the type to enjoy a massage, or any form of TLC really. The feeling of hands on his shoulders send him back to the battlefield, the weight on his back makes him feel like he's suffocating.

Even with you he's not fond of a massage, if you start to rub his shoulders or back he'll guide you into a a hug. Often smothering you in a cuddle, or returning the favour and offering to give you a massage instead.

What he does like however, is his hands being played with.

Simon can't explain it, but the feeling of your fingers gently pinching the pressure point between his thumb and forefinger is relaxing.

The movie had long since been abandoned, yet it still played softly in the background. You and Simon hadn't moved from the couch since dinner, takeout containers sitting empty on floor instead of being disposed of immediately. 'It won't hurt for the floor to be messy for a few hours' Simon had said, his attempt at keeping you on the couch successful. He'd sat with his back against the armrest, you between his legs so he could stop you from leaving. So you wouldn't have been able to say no either way.

Your hands had taken one of his, gently massaging away the ache that had settled in during the cool evening. He told you he was starting to get old, you rolled your eyes and reminded him that you're both the same age.

As the ending title began to play you shifted, releasing his hand as you attempted to get up. The same hand you'd been holding moments early snaking back around your waist and pulling you back to him.

"Where are you going?"

"To pee"

"I'm coming with you." At that comment you smack his hand, standing up.

"Clingy are we?"

Johnny 'Soap' MacTavish

Johnny is very much a head rub kinda guy, he would start world war three if it meant getting a head rub.

that's an exaggeration, he wouldn't.. unless- jk

He likes to sit in front of you on the couch while you play with his mohawk, normally he pulls your leg over his shoulder and will massage your calf or foot.

He doesn't want you to feel left out

but when he's stressed tho? like mega stressed all of the tension in his body goes to his neck. He ends up getting Migraines so bad he sits in a dark until they go away. When on a mission it's worse.

As the sun went down the chill in the safe house grew, huddling closer to the fire you waited for Soap to come out of the shower. He'd been in there for longer than usual, you could only assume that it was as a result of the exhaustion that had overtaken both of you.

If it wasn't for the chill that had set in you'd probably have fallen asleep in bed, but you'd wait for Johnny first. After all snuggling was the best way to achieve warmth, or so he liked to remind you. The door swung open behind you, footsteps skipping right past you as he flopped down on the bed.

It was clear as day and you knew the signs, he had one of those Migraines again.

"mo ghràdh.. I'm so tired."

"Come get into bed properly, love. Then you can sleep."

Once you were both snuggled up under the covers, your hand rested on the back of his neck. Thumb sliding up from his shoulder just to the base of his ear, adding a little pressure before going back to it's starting position.

"Y/N-"

"Shh, go back to sleep."

"Thank you.."

Within a few minutes you'd both drifted off to sleep.