#don’t worry the others come by and help Benji

[smilesrobotlover]

Whumptober day 22- glass shard, vehicular accident

Ok so these next few days will be very short and simple. Regardless I hope you enjoy this one. I don’t like it but I did want to write Kass and Benji as a focus for once and I love them very much. Also I couldn’t find a place to say in the fic but the glass shard is from a broken bottle BDKSBSKS

Warnings: concussion? Stab wound, blood, mention of selling people.

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Kass had been skimming the beach for hours now, trying to find any remnants of Linebeck and Benji. They both went on a boat and disappeared, and seeing how Kass could fly, he immediately scouted ahead, searching for them and praying that they weren’t in any danger. Finally, Kass spotted a broken boat with debris scattered across the beach, and when he got closer, he recognized Linebeck. He landed next to him, noticing that he was unconscious, but he was breathing, thank Hylia. His head was bleeding however, and that worried Kass, so he took Linebeck’s ripped up coat and tied it gently around his bleeding head. He laid him in a more comfortable position and let out a sigh.

“K-Kass…”

The Rito bard spun around and saw Benji underneath the boat, a pained expression on his face.

“Benji! Thank Hylia I found you both!” Kass ran to the musician and tried to lift the boat off of him. Luckily it was small, and Kass was strong, so it wasn’t too difficult to shift it enough for Benji to escape. Benji crawled away, holding his side, and Kass noticed the blood.

“Are you ok Benji?” He landed beside him and looked at his bleeding side. Benji laid on his back and let out a pained breath.

“I-I’m fine… just a little impaled is all.”

Kass gasped. “Why— that is not fine! Let me see.”

Benji lifted his hand off his side and Kass saw a glass shard embedded into it. He cringed and lightly touched it with his talon, causing Benji to hiss in pain.

“Sorry!” Kass quickly apologized, pulling his talon away. He hummed nervously as he watched the wound, trying to figure out what to do. Talon was the one who took care of injuries, Kass never even touched anything to do with that. In Rito village, it was always Saki who dealt with injuries and illnesses, so Kass felt way out of his element.

“Sh-should I pull it out?” He asked stupidly, and Benji only groaned in response. Kass let out a quick breath and brought his wings together. Talon and Saki weren’t here now, so he needed to do something for Benji. “Ok, what do I do…? If I pull this out, you will bleed a lot…”

“I’m already bleeding a lot,” Benji wheezed.

“Ok, but if I leave it in… would an infection happen? Um…. oh no…” Kass groaned, worry for his friend increasing as he scrambled trying to figure out what he should do. He huffed and grabbed the boat, gently resting Benji’s legs against it. He then knelt down next to him and applied pressure to the sides of his wound, trying to stop the bleeding. Benji hissed in pain, but Kass ignored it. He just needed Talon to come soon.

“Breathe for me Benji,” Kass muttered, and he only groaned. “I suppose you haven’t experienced something like this before, hm?”

“N-no… usually when I do, my wife heals me up.”

“Your wife’s a healer?”

“Yeah. She’d make the injury go away in a heartbeat.”

Kass looked at Benji strangely. “She has healing powers? Why, that’s extraordinary! And rare!”

“She’s a… great fairy… n’t very rare…” Benji’s speech became more slurred as he spoke, but Kass was focused on who he was wed to. A great fairy? Kass had never even heard of great fairies getting married to regular Hylians, despite the fact that they were flirtatious with everyone they met. Did that mean that Benji’s son was a half fairy? Is that why he never told anyone about him? Kass made a small gasp as he realized that Benji was delirious enough to spill this secret, and he shook his head, trying to erase it from his mind. Half fairies were exceptionally rare, being sold for a lot on the black market. In Kass’s time, it only got worse with the calamity destroying the organized soldiers Hyrule once had. Half fairies were not protected, and the great fairies didn’t do much for them. It was no wonder why Benji was so worried about his son, not only was he in danger from the puppeteer, but also from greedy and selfish people. He stared at his bloody side, trying to forget about what Benji just told him and tried to focus on his wound.

Kass assumed that if he didn’t have giant wings, that dealing with this would be much easier, but he didn’t stop putting pressure on the wound, wanting to keep Benji from bleeding out.

“Kass?”

The Rito bard looked at his friend, who was staring at him. “Are you alright?” He asked.

“I’m fine… how’s Linebeck? He was with me.”

“He probably has a concussion and is unconscious right now, but I pray that he’ll be alright.”

Benji gave a small smile. “It’ll be ok….”

Kass nodded and focused on his wound while Benji let out a breathy laugh.

“It’ll be ok….”

[aemondapologistfrfr]

Pray That I Don't Catch You

benji blackwood x bracken!fem!reader

Summary: The crown intervenes and decides that a marriage between Lord Brackens daughter and Lord Blackwood’s son will solve the tensions between the two houses. You both were very open about your dislike for each other until something changed.

Warnings: 18+ swearing, wine, arranged marriage, chasing(like literal chasing), oral(f), fingering, loss of virginity, p in v, breeding kink

Authors Note: idc that this is overdone i haven’t done it yet 🧍🏼‍♀️ me vs avoiding eye contact w my ongoing series so i could write this in one sitting anyways this was supposed to be chill and then turned into this 

Word Count: 5.9k

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Stone Hedge has been in absolute chaos over the past fortnight preparing for the crown to visit. My mother is having gowns made hastily for us and I’m not bothered by that in the slightest. I’ve been begging for new gowns for ages so this is the perfect time. I spend my days with the seamstresses and help embroider some details. 

My father has been on edge and I’ve done my best to avoid him. I hear his voice trailing throughout the halls from his council chambers. The servants are quick to drop him off wine and quickly run out of his presence. My mother tries to soothe him but even her soft nature won’t crack his hard demeanor. 

“What did I tell you boy?” my fathers voice jolts me from my nap. I slowly peek my head out my chamber doors and see him hauling my brother down the hall. I gasp as I take in his bruised and bloodied face. My fathers eyes narrow on me and pluck me from my chambers and leads me to the council chambers with him. My mother is already waiting inside looking less than pleased. 

“I’ve told you both time and time again that the crown is to visit in a couple days. We’ve been preparing for almost a moon now.” my fathers face gets redder the louder his voice gets. 

“I haven’t done anything.” I scrunch my brows and look around at them. 

“You could have kept your brother inside with you.” my mother gives me a pointed look. 

“Since when am I his keeper?” I groan, pushing myself back into the chair. “What even happened to him?” I look at my brother's face with a grimace. 

“Some Blackwood moving the boundary stones. Am I to just let them on our land?” my brother turns his attention to our father. 

“The crown is coming to deal with this generational feud. You’ll be lucky if they don’t send you to the Wall. Gods, my heir will be taken from me. Over some fucking grass.” my father downs his cup of wine and starts to fill it anew. I look at my mother and my worried expression is mirrored on her face. We have no way out of this chamber until my father dismisses us no matter that we have nothing to offer. 

“It’s never been an issue before..” my brother scoffs.

“The crown hasn’t come here in decades. The Queen wishes this fighting to end. Gods, know how she plans to do that.” my mother shakes her head. 

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I crane my neck towards the sky as the Queen circles Stone Hedge on her dragon. Her dragon gives out a loud cry before it descends and lands outside our gates. Her traveling company has arrived just a day before and our Keep has been bustling with activity. Her handmaidens cluster around the gate as her feet touch the ground. She waves them all off and my family all bows deeply. 

“Your Grace.” my fathers rough voice travels across to her. 

“Rise.” her voice soft yet firm. “Where might Lord Blackwood be? I had hoped we could all sit down and begin the meeting with haste.” she hums and looks around. 

“Oh-um, My Queen, I had assumed you wanted to rest after your travels.” my father stutters out. 

“Let’s assume nothing else on this visit.” she hums. “I’ll send someone to retrieve him.” she walks past us with her company a step behind her. 

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When Lord Blackwood arrived my brother went rigid upon seeing his son in tow. I can tell this is who he got into a fight with by the black eye that has yet to begin to fade. I fill the cups around the council chamber and allow my eyes to roam over all of the unfamiliar faces. I catch the Blackwood boy staring at me and he gives me a sneering smile before turning his attention back to the Queen. 

“Then that matter is settled.” she looks at me and I try to keep my face neutral. I should’ve been paying attention. I turn to my mother and she has a worried expression on her face. “Your daughter and your son's union should be more than enough to stitch the Riverlands back together.” the Queen looks from my father to Lord Blackwood. 

The realization starts to sink in at what her words mean. My mother is still staring at me and I feel Lord Blackwood's son's eyes on me once more. My brother mumbles something next to me but I ignore it and slip out of the council chambers. I sprint down the stairs and make my way to the courtyard. The fresh air hits my face and I keep running through the gates. Once I make it past the tree line I finally stop and rest my hands on my knees to catch my breath. 

“What have I done to be at the end of your cruel joke?” I whisper up at the Gods. 

“Enough with the dramatics.” I turn and see the Blackwood boy leaning against a tree. “They sent me to come retrieve you. I’m sure in hopes that you would think I was rescuing you in some galant way.” he drawls looking me over, bored.

“I won’t go back with you.” I raise my chin at him. 

“You will. I won’t be spending the evening out here.” he starts to walk towards me. I take one glance at his outstretched arm and suck in a breath before turning and sprinting deeper into the forest. Green and brown blur past me as I delve us deeper into the woods. I hear his heavy feet a couple feet behind me and my adrenaline pushes me further. I feel his fingers wrap around my arm and I go to pull away and send us both flying to the ground. “Gods woman.” he grits out through his teeth as we fumble around in the dirt and leaves. 

“Let go of me.” I try to pull my wrists out of his grasp but he slams them down to the earth. 

“If I do, you'll run and we’ll end up in the same place in a couple minutes.” his breath fans across me as our chests push into each other as we try to slow our breathing. 

“I don’t want to marry you.” I shake my head. 

“Nor I you.” he looks me over with annoyance. “But I’m afraid the Queen insists.” 

“I don’t care. I won’t.” his nostrils flare at my words. 

“Stubborn and hardheaded like every other Bracken.” he mumbles and I bring my knee up hard between his legs and the air is knocked out of his lungs. I scramble to my feet and break into a run. “Pray to your Gods I don’t catch you.” he screams into the trees and I hear twigs snapping behind me. 

My lungs feel like they’re on fire and I risk taking a sharp turn and slowing my pace to quiet my noises and breathing. I rest against a tree and lean my head back trying to focus on catching my breath. I look up at the orange and pink sky knowing I need to get out of this forest before moonrise. I look around at my surroundings and slowly push myself off of the tree. I take one step forward and squeak and he presses me against the bark. 

“Get-“ one of his hands press against my mouth. 

“I don’t want to hear another fucking word from you.” he stares at me. “Do you understand?” he raises an eyebrow. I nod my head having no other choice. I keep looking at him as he slowly removes his hand. He grips his other hand around my wrist and begins to pull us back in the direction of Stone Hedge. I try to pull my hand away but he just tightens his fingers in response. I nibble on my lip wanting to say something but unsure of what he’ll do. 

“You’re going to leave bruises.” my voice barely above a whisper. 

“I don’t care.” he tugs me to start walking faster. 

“At least slow down.” I huff yanking his arm back. He turns to me with dark eyes and I match his stare. 

“Do you wish to walk through the forest in the dark?” he looks down at me. 

“No.” I purse my lips. “I don’t want you to drag me through this forest anymore either. You should act like a gentleman if I’m now your betrothed.” I look up at him expectantly. He shakes his head at me and his grasp tightens around my wrist once more and he starts to pull us through the forest. As we approach the tree line the sun sets and my mother and father breathe out a sigh of relief as we come into view. I barely noticed him slip his fingers between mine to make our journey seem more innocent than it was. 

“Thank the Gods.” my father sighs pulling me into his tight embrace. “I was about ready to go in there myself.” he pulls back and looks me over and starts to pull some leaves out of my hair. He looks over at the Blackwood boy and nods his head. “Thank you, Benjicot.” I look at him just now realizing I never got his name. 

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I look myself over in the mirror and continue to smooth out my skirt. I watch as my handmaidens finish with my hair and step back to admire their work. My mother comes in and places a necklace around me. I smile at her in the mirror before I turn to her. I offer what I hope is a comforting smile and she gives me a reassuring nod. 

“It’s just lunch in the gardens.” the corners of her mouth turn upward. “It can’t be so bad.” she raises my chin. This isn’t the first lunch we’ve had. He has been coming here everyday and it’s clear it’s not on his own terms. Our conversations are short and we mostly fight or sit in silence unless there are others around.

“I suppose you’re right.” I sigh, nodding my head. I brush past her and make my way down the stairs. I allow a smile to spread across my features as I see him waiting for me. He offers me his arm and I accept watching my mother smile at us from the corner of my eye. “So lovely to see you, Benjicot.” I hum resting my head on his shoulder. 

“A bit much.” he chuckles lowly and I pinch his arm rather hard in return. “How is my betrothed today?” he brings his hand up to my cheek in the pretense to caress it but pinches me. 

“Ow.” I push him. 

“Easy.” he chuckles, pulling me back against him. 

“My day has gotten so much brighter now that I’m with you.” my voice sickeningly sweet. People around us stop and smile watching us pretend to be smitten. They never catch the underlying moments like when he pushes my chair in too far and steals the breath from me. Or when we embrace and my hands find the back of his neck I pull so hard on his hair I’m surprised I haven’t taken any out yet. As he takes his seat across from me, servants are upon us filling our cups and plates.

“Are you counting down the days until we wed? It’s just under a fortnight now.” he smirks while sipping his wine. 

“I can’t wait, Benjicot.” his nostrils flare at his full name. 

“How many times do I have to tell you to call me Benji?” his voice has a bite only I can hear. 

“You should’ve never told me you dislike it.” I chuckle, raising my cup to him. 

“I dislike you.” a servant walks up and he adds. “Being away from me. I can’t wait until we’re wed and I never have to spend another moment without you.” he reaches across the table for my hand. I offer it to him and watch the servant swoon looking at us. 

“Oh Benjicot.” I coo and lean in closer to him and his hand constricts around mine. The second the servant walks away I rip my hand out of his and massage my fingers. “Must you always manhandle me like some beast.” I hiss across to him. 

“You are a beast that requires manhandling.” he glares at me and I know the look is mirrored on my face. We eat our meal in silence and once we finish our table is cleared. We stare at each other in silence and he exhales loudly before rising and offering me his hand. 

“This is a surprise.” I look at his hand with a raised brow. “I was only promised lunch.” I hum accepting his hand and standing. 

“We might as well walk through the gardens. We’re already here.” he pulls me against him and tightens his fingers around mine. 

“Was this your own idea, Benjicot?” I can barely stifle my giggle. “Just can’t get enough of your betrothed?” I hum pressing myself against him and he stops us. 

“Enough.” he grabs my chin making me look up at him. “You will thank me for taking you on a walk and you will hold my hand and smile.” I squint my eyes at him. “I will have no more of this attitude.” I bite my lip trying to hide my smirk. His fingers tighten around my chin and I continue to blink up at him as he looks at me expectantly. We stare at each other for what feels like minutes and I sigh rolling my eyes. 

“Thank you for taking me on a walk through the gardens. It’s unexpected and appreciated.” I grab his hand from my chin and interlock our fingers. He searches my eyes one last time before we continue our walk through the gardens. The walk is silent but it feels different from what we’ve been doing. His hand isn’t like a vice and we aren’t overly acting even when we run into others. When he returns me to the main doors of the keep and pulls me into his embrace my fingers don’t pull against his hair instead they slowly thread through it. 

“I will see you in the morning.” his knuckles brush against my cheek and I scrunch my brows at the action as he walks away leaving me on the steps. 

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There is only five days until I’m to marry Benjicot and I curse myself for having butterflies at the thought. I wish we could go back to loathing each other. The constant teasing has slowly progressed into something more. We’ve been spending more time together since our walk in the garden last week and I try to hide how happy it makes me. My skirts swish behind me as I make my way down the steps and I can’t help the smile that spreads across my face when I see him waiting for me. 

“You look radiant today.” my heart skips at his words. I haven’t gotten used to the genuine compliments from him and they steal my breath every time. 

“Thank you.” I mumble against him as he pulls me into his arms. “What do you have planned for us today?” I look up at him as I pull back. He doesn’t respond, only smiles at me as he walks us out of the main doors. We walk through the gates and I look at him curiously. He leads us into the clearing before the tree line and I smile as the tall grass brushes against my fingertips. 

“I’m surprised you haven’t sprinted away yet.” his tone playful. 

“Shall I?” I look at him with a glint in my eye. “Do you want to chase after me again, Benjicot?” my heart starts to beat faster in anticipation. 

“I thought you were starting to like me.” he chuckles, pulling me closer. I slip my hand out of his and dash towards the tree line. He engulfs me a second later and spins me against his chest. “No no no,” he chuckles, wrapping his arms around me tighter. “We’re not doing that again.” I try to wiggle out of his grasp and groan with little luck. One of his hands makes its way to the back of my head and tilts it up to him. 

“You were much faster this time.” I try to suppress my smirk. 

“Or was I just enjoying hunting down my betrothed the first time?” his fingers tighten in my hair and my breath catches. 

“I escaped you last time.” he chuckles. 

“You didn’t play fair last time.” he slowly dips his head down. 

“You’re not playing fair now.” I try to tilt my chin up but his fingers pull harder. 

“You’re the one who ran.” he lips hover over mine. 

“And you’re a tease.” I huff willing him to press his lips against mine. He chuckles and pulls back watching my heaving chest. I push him back with a scrunched brow and make a run for it again. 

“I’ll give you a head start.” he calls after me and I throw him a smile over my shoulder. 

I hop over wayward branches and ignore the twigs that are digging into my skirts. I risk a glance behind me and smile when I don’t see him. I keep moving forward and scream as he pops out in front of me. I jump to the right and sprint past him as he wildly laughs. I hear him behind me and I push myself to run even faster. His fingers catch onto the fabric of my dress and he pulls me back against him. I land against his chest with a thud and his hand rests against my chest above my heart. It slides up around my throat as his fingers press against my pulse. 

“You worked up from running or you like being chased?” he pants against my neck. His fingers caress across the front of my throat as I lean back into him. “Tell me.” he licks up the side of my neck and I writhe in his arms. 

“Benjicot,” I sigh, holding onto his arms. His hand slides up to my chin and turns my head to the side. 

“You’re insufferable when you call me that.” he bites down on my neck and I gasp digging my nails into his skin. “You never answered my question.” he presses a kiss against the red mark. 

“What was it?” my voice broken while his arms wrap around my front holding me against him. 

“Do you like when I chase you?” a shiver runs down my spine and I nod my head. “I knew it.” he chuckles. He kisses my neck once more and begins to remove his hands from my body. “Run.” my adrenaline spikes as he scoots me forward and my feet start to carry me through the forest once more. 

I run in the opposite direction and I hear him tearing through the leaves behind me. My feet pound into the dirt as I break through the tree line and into the open field. Some grass tangles around my ankle and I tumble to the ground in a fit of giggles. Just as I’m about to call out to him he bursts through the grass and trips over my foot sending him to the ground. I laugh harder and crawl over to him to make sure he’s okay. He’s rubbing his head as I kneel at his side and brush his hair back between giggles. 

“Poor Benjicot.” I coo wiping the dirt from his cheek. “Are you okay?” he glares up at me before tackling me backwards. 

“Must you always send me to the dirt when we’re out in the forest?” he searches my eyes as I smile up at him. 

“You chase after me so intensely. I didn’t make you charge through the clearing like a bull.” I purse my lips. 

“Well I don’t want to lose you.” he scrunches his brows and his words come out softer than both of us anticipate. 

“Careful you sound like you care.” my tone taunting. 

“Shut up.” I catch his eyes dart to my lips. 

“Are you going to make me?” I tilt my head watching him. He presses his lips against mine a second later. My fingers tangle in his hair holding him against me and he grabs them with his own and pins them to the ground. I arch my body up into his wanting more than our lips to be touching and he chuckles against my mouth. “More.” I whine against his lips. 

“You’ll have whatever I decide you deserve.” he kisses down my jaw and I mewl beneath him. “You’re absolutely fucking indecent.” he sucks harshly against my neck. I wrap my legs around his waist and pull his weight against me. “Gods,” he pants against my skin. “No more. We’re not wed yet.” he pulls back and stares at my heaving chest. 

“Ever the gentleman.” I roll my eyes. “Then help me up.” I hold my hand out and he pulls me up. As we walk through the field he plucks flowers from the grass and hands them to me silently. I hold them together and by the time we make it back through the front gates I have a small bouquet in my hands. 

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“Are you going to finally admit to me that you’re absolutely smitten?” my mother preens from behind me as she finishes placing the last pin in my hair. 

“Gods mother,” I groan and I see my handmaiden giggling in the mirror next to me. “You’ll regret teasing me when I move back with him to Raventree Hall.” I purse my lip. 

“The couple hour journey?” she raises her brow to me. 

I roll my eyes at her and she presses a kiss to the top of my head. The next two hours go by in a blur as I’m tied into my gown and last minute touches are being applied. I’m paraded down to the great hall and wait behind the closed doors in anticipation. I fiddle with my nails and my heart races as I hear the soft song of the string instruments. The doors groan open and everyone rises and turns to watch me walk up to the dais. 

I spot my mother and see her crying next to my father and brother. I smile at all of the familiar faces and finally allow myself to look forward. My eyes travel up his form until they lock with his. He looks very well groomed and his cheeks have a faint flush to it. He holds his hand out for me as I approach him and he helps guide me up the step to stand in front of him. I don’t even pay attention to what the septon is saying as Benji and I focus on each other. We repeat after the septon when prompted and when he announces us man and wife Benji pulls me against him and seals our lips. The hall explodes in cheers and we’re ushered to the empty floor to share our first dance. 

“You look beautiful, my wife.” he hums, pressing his lips against my forehead. 

“Thank you, Benjicot.” I look up at him with a smile. 

“Must you still call me that?” he groans as we start to sway to the music. 

“It’s your name, is it not?” he scoffs, shaking his head. “My husband pouts?” I throw my head back and laugh. He shushes me as he twirls me around the floor and laughs as he pulls me back against him. We let our bodies glide to the rhythm and after a couple minutes more duos join us in our dance. We slowly make our way back to our table and laugh and talk with our families on either side of us. 

“I had something set up for us.” Benji whispers into my ear. 

“What is it?” I tilt my head looking at him. 

“Come.” he offers me his hand and helps me stand with a smile. Our parents smile after us as we slip out the doors. He leads us outside in the yard and he pulls me on the other side of the gates. 

“It’s dark.” I squeeze his hand. 

“We have the full moon. Our eyes will adjust.” he hums leading me into the tall grass. I see a small flickering in the distance and I press closer against him. My eyes begin to adjust and I see a tent and a fire being tended to by a guard. “Thank you.” he nods at the man and he disappears back through the grass to the gates. 

“What are we doing out here?” I look around at the campsite. 

“Enjoying the moon,” he places a kiss against my neck. “And the stars.” he places a kiss to the center of my throat. “Having the privacy and space we need.” he kisses the other side of my neck. “I don’t want this to get ruined.” his hands begin to untie my gown and it pools in the grass leaving me clad in my sheer slip and slippers. His gaze on my body sends shivers through me. He starts to pull me further into the grass and my eyebrows knit together. 

“Where are we going?” my voice soft as I stay close to his side. 

“Not far. We’ll be able to see the fire. You’re safe.” his thumb rubs against my hand. He stops us and when I turn the fire is only a dot in the distance. “Can you see?” he searches my eyes and I nod. He leans down and presses his lips against mine. His fingers dig into my waist as he pulls his lips away from me. He searches my eyes and I see the corner of his mouth twitch as he glances at the fire. I see the glint in his eye and I bite my lip. 

“Come get me, Benji.” I smile before I bolt in the direction of the fire. I hear the grass swaying behind me and I push myself to run faster. My hair whips wildly behind me and I hear his heavy breathing quickly approaching. 

“You know I'm just toying with you right?” I hear his voice come from my left and I jolt, my pace faltering. I turn in a circle looking to see where the grass moves but all I can see is the glow of the fire. “Why’d you stop?” I turn at his voice only to be greeted with grass. My head snaps in the opposite direction and I turn on my heel and race back to the fire. Benji scoops me up from my right and I squeal in his arms jerking wildly. He brings us back to the campsite and into the tent. 

“You had a featherbed brought out here?” I chuckle as he kisses across my neck while laying us back.

“Why are you complaining about not being on the ground?” he starts to pull up my slip and I gasp as his fingers trace against my hips and up my sides. “Lift your arms up for me.” he hums and I slowly put them above my head. He pulls off the slip and dips down to kiss across my chest. He encases one of my nipples and I gasp as his teeth graze against it. 

“Benji,” I whine, holding onto his shoulders. He kisses his way over to my other breast and sucks it into his mouth. I arch into his mouth and he smiles against my heated skin. “Take off your clothes.” I plead pulling against his jerkin. 

“Shh,” he bites against my skin and I gasp. He kisses back up my chest and captures my lips. He grinds against me and whimpers spill from my lips. His fingers slide up my wet small clothes and my legs close around his hand. “Have you been touched before?” his fingers continue to tease me as they’re held between my legs. 

“No.” I whine, shaking my head. He kisses down to my neck and my hands hold him closer. 

“Have you touched yourself?” he starts to open my legs and I let out small sighs as he presses into my heat. He watches me as I nod my head. He raises his eyebrow as he trails his finger up and down. 

“Once.” I breathe out, squeezing my eyes shut. My hips move on their own and I gasp. 

“When?” he smirks against my neck. 

“The last time you chased me.” I flush at the confession. “I didn’t- I was just so hot and so- yes,” I cry out as he dips his fingers below my small clothes. “Benji,” my voice cracks as he swirls around my bud. 

“Yeah, does that feel good?” he looks down at me as I squirm. “Fuck you’re so wet.” he groans lets his fingers slide down and circle my core. 

“I wanna feel you.” I whine pulling at his clothes. He sits back and watches me squirm on the bed as he slowly removes his clothes. I lift my hips as he pulls my small clothes down bearing me completely. “Touch me,” I plead, reaching out for him. 

“So needy.” he chuckles, leaning back down to press his lips against me once more. He leaves a trail of kisses in his wake as he makes his way between my thighs. He places a single kiss between my legs and they shake around his head. He wraps his hands around my hips and pulls me closer and I stare down at him, nibbling on my lip. His lips encase my bud and my head falls back to the pillow. 

“Yes Benji,” a moan tears through me. I shake above him as his tongue circles against me. When his tongue moves faster I tangle my fingers in his hair. He groans as I hold him closer to me. I feel one of his fingers circle my entrance and I whine as he pushes it in. He starts to slowly pull his finger while swirling around my bud and my breath starts to come out in pants. “Benji,” I gasp as he presses a second finger into me. 

My hips rising off the bed and he starts to move his fingers faster. Whimpers cascade from my mouth when he curls his fingers. “Yes,” I cry, rolling my hips against his face. He chuckles as he moves my hips himself across his tongue and my stomach coils. I fall apart grinding against his face and he starts to kiss his way back up my quaking body. His hand tangles in my hair as he pulls me into a heated kiss. I moan into his mouth as his fingers circle my bud. 

“My good little Bracken wife.” he kisses down my neck. I gasp beneath him as he pulls pleasure from me with his fingers. I shutter the quicker his fingers move and reach up to try and kiss him but he’s just out of reach. “Just begging for me. Gonna fill you with my Blackwood seed and watch you grow with my child.” he whispers against my lips as he slips his fingers back in me. My fingers dig into his back as my legs start to shake. I pulse around his fingers, whining his name as he kisses across my neck. 

He slips his fingers out and starts to push his length into me. I look at him with hooded eyes as he slowly pushes in. We both pant once he settles inside and I begin to adjust slowly rocking against him. “Fuck, you’re killing me.” he groans and I clench around him. 

“Benji,” I whine and he snaps his hips, stealing my breath. 

“Relax for a second.” he grits out through his teeth digging his fingers into my waist. He slowly starts to move in a slow rhythm pulling small gasps from me. He grinds against me brushing against my bud and my eyes roll to the back of my head. He continues the movement and I feel my pleasure building quickly. He curses into my neck as I fall apart around him. “Gods you’re so sensitive.” he kisses across my chest. He starts to move his hips faster and he captures one of my nipples into his mouth. 

“Please, yes,” I whine as his teeth tease the hardened bud. My legs lock around his waist and he groans against me before moving back up to bite and suck across my neck. “I’m gunna,” my voice cracks as pleasure slams through me and I cling against him.

“Fuck,” he groans almost collapsing on top of me. He rests his forehead against mine as he slowly starts to push into me. “Doing so good for me.” he pants and I mumble something inaudible. He starts to move his hips faster and my eyes screw shut as I focus on the feeling. “This what you like?” he chuckles, snapping his hips into mine. 

“Yes, Benji,” I moan loudly, pressing my chest into his. I come undone as I feel him spill inside of me. He keeps moving his hips and I gasp feeling the warmth between my legs. 

“Taking everything I give you.” he grunts, slowly rocking his hips into mine. “You like being so full of me?” I nod my head beneath him. He keeps rocking his hips into me until he hardens once more. I tremble below him as he presses himself into me again and again. 

“Benji,” his name is the only thing that comes from my mouth as his fingers swipe against my bud. I pulse around him feeling our pleasure between us. 

“Just begging for me to fill you up again.” he grunts and I feel him twitch inside of me and I come undone with a high pitched cry as he fills me once more. He pulls out and I whine at the sudden loss. “It’s just leaking out of you.” he chuckles, lifting my hips up. His fingers push our pleasure back into me and I grab his wrist. 

“Benji, I can’t,” I shake my head digging my nails into his skin as he pushes his seed back into me. 

“Just making sure it sticks.” he presses his lips to my thigh and removes his hands. “You did so good for me, my perfect wife.” he hums and I try to slow my panting as I look up at him. He lays us back on the bed and I cling against him listening to his heartbeat as I drift off to bed. 

ততততততততততততততততততততততততততততততততততত

masterlist 🔌 

not soft and dreamy benji has me in a chokehold atm

taglist ✍️

@clarityisnofun @gabriella-aesthetic @callsignwidow @llynx7 @violetiss3lfish @ka1afbr @akiko-oo @papichulo120627 @lizzylovebooks280501 @thatgirl101blog @1-fuzzy-squirrels @arya-brooke @ashovertheriver @zanygot7straykidsbonk @moonymoo1 @malfoycassimalfoy @april-notthemonth69 @anaviieiraaa @p45510n4f4shi0n @neocockthotology @thereaderwitch @hardkiddonut @faenyra @hiimava11 @daintylittlesunflower @primroseluna @fiction-fanfic-reader @povofjustme @multilover19 @alexxavicry @cedstars @fuckalrighty @mrsmunson-harrington @misspendragonsworld @nz2004

[mrs-willow]

"A Raven and a Falcon"

Chapter 4

The rain was still falling hard in the Riverlands, but it was failing to deter the locals from carrying out their daily duties. Raventree Hall was still busting with life in the shadow of an upcoming winter. Farmers traveled in and out of the castle, bringing in portions of their harvests to add to the Blackwoods stores for winter. They were heavily compensated for their donations, and the gold they earned from their sales put their families through winter. Just outside the high walls of the Hall, the cliffs that the castle stood upon fell sharply into the angry river that crashed against the beaches and rocks. To the south and east, the Hall was otherwise surrounded by fields of grass and forests that sported packs of dear, boar, and all manner of birds. In those fields, groups of young men and boys trained with swords and bows freshly made by the smiths just within the walls. 

A small group of young boys gathered around two of the older men, watching them duel. The master of arms commanded the boys to show them the correct steps and positions that must be used in a proper fight. The Blackwoods maintained a rigorous training regiment for their men so that they would always be prepared for a battle. Five years prior, Lord Samwell commanded all of the Blackwoods men from the age of thirteen to fifty to train at least once a day in preparation for invasion or war. Lord Tully was aging quickly and spent most days in bed asleep with help from the milk of the poppy, thus leaving the actions of the surrounding houses unchecked and their movements unregulated. The conflict between the Blackwoods and the Brackens was an ancient one. Both sides would rave and pillage the other's lands until a small line of stones became the only preventative measure for an all-out war. But, with the Tullys slipping hold on the Riverlands, Samewell sensed that the fighting would begin yet again. 

John and Benjicot stood in the center of the circle of boys, both strong fighters but with different techniques. John fought with precision and strong jabs in picture-perfect form, while Benjicot with lightning-fast slashes and crazed spinning movements. The two managed to balance one another out well with their clashing fighting styles, leaving all the young boys in awe and the older men with a proud gleam in their eyes, 

The two had been sparing for what seemed like forever, but it was only a few minutes. Regardless of the cold weather, the two men were already beginning to sweat, and their breaths were labored. 

Benjicot let out a manic laugh as he dodged another one of Johns's attacks. “Come on, man, I know you’re faster than that.” Benji goated as he attacked with a flurry of slashes that John paired away.     

“Oh, don’t get too smart, my Lord,” John said with a glare as he attacked with a strong stab that the young Lord had to drop to the ground to avoid.

Finally tired of the ongoing fight, Benjicot chose to end the duel with a quick swipe of John's feet and a jab of his elbow into the man's stomach. John fell to the floor, and Benji was above the man in an instant, his sword pointed at his friend's neck. 

The surrounding group erupted in applause as the young Lord offered a hand to his fallen friend. 

The training masters addressed the younger boys as the two friends walked over to get water and regain their breath. 

“So, how are you doing?” John questioned his friend. 

Benjicot looked at his friend with an annoyed stare.

“You know, about the whole marriage thing?” John pushed. 

“Oh, leave me be,” Benji said with a tired huff.

“Come on, mate, I worry about you. You haven’t spoken about the matter since the other day, and you are always somewhere in your head rather than present.”

“What would you like me to say?” Benji said with an angry look, “What is there to talk about? I must marry a woman I hardly know for the sake of my house. I know that she will never love me or care for the Riverlands. I will be stealing her away from her home and family and taking her to an unknown place without a soul that she knows.” Benji ranted. “The woman I will spend the rest of my life with, the future mother of my children, will resent me forever, and I, her because she has indirectly taken all choice from me simply because our fathers were friends.” Benjicot finished with a snarl as he stormed back through the gates of Raventree Hall.

When Benjcot finished cleaning the sweat and mud from his body, he began to dress to meet his father to go over the costs of the castle and make necessary arrangements for the winter and the upcoming wedding affairs. As the man dressed, he noticed the many scars littering his pail skin, the result of years of training and mistakes with the sword, all of which transformed him into the ruthless fighter he is today. Yet he still felt a sense of insecurity as he studied his shirtless torso, yes he had the long limb trait of his family, and arms and stomach rippled in muscle from his training, but a long scar ran from beneath his left pectoral muscle down his side, and wrapped around to his back. Yet another lesson that must be learned. As He finished dressing, the young Lord was unable to ward off the thoughts of what his new wife would think of him and if she would ever be able to bear the sight of his uncovered chest and back.

*. ⋆ ✧.·:·.* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *.·:·.✧ *. ⋆

Lord Samwell sat in his study once more, conversing with his advisors about the arrangements still to be made to host the Arryns when they made their journey to the Riverlands when his son arrived. The young lord came and took his seat directly across from his father, but his mind was elsewhere, and he was paying no attention to the numbers or names being thrown about the room. When Samewell finally addressed his son to make sure that he was listening to the important conversation that was happening around him, there was an urgent knock on the large wooden door as a panting soldier entered the room. 

“Forgive me, my Lords,” the soldier began, “But there is urgent news from the border. “The Brackens have crossed the wall with herds of livestock.” The man stated.

Lord Samwell rose in an instant along with his son. Both men had angry eyes and snarls on their lips. Lord Samwell turned to his son, “Take care of them,” the Lord ordered. 

Benjicot answered with a swift nod to his father as he rushed from the room, followed by the messenger. 

“Gather ten men, tell them we ride for the wall and to prepare for a fight,” Benjicot ordered in an eerily similar tone as his Lord Father, sending the messenger to gather the men. When he reached the stables, ten men were already assembled, and Benjicot's horse waiting for him.  

As the man climbed into his saddle, he addressed his friends and men, “They mean to feed their animals on the little food we have left in supply before winter. We must show them once more what happens when they break the treaty agreements.” 

*. ⋆ ✧.·:·.* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *.·:·.✧ *. ⋆

Five Bracken men stood guard over the herd of cows that they had allowed across the border. The group was in high spirits as they believed they had successfully snuck through without Blackwood's knowledge. Just as one of the Brackensoldiers was joking with his men about the alleged great fight he had won the previous mourning, he heard an angry cry accompanied by the thundering steps of horses.   

“BRACKEN!” a voice screamed as the group of soldiers rounded the edge of the small forest to the left of the trespassers.

Benjicot and his men had made record time in their journey to the border in response to the invaders. 

“Just what the hell do you think you are doing, you little cunt,” Benjicot addressed as he brought his horse to a standstill a few feet from the cowering men. He watched as the small man sputtered for an answer, taken off guard by the ten mounted men all armed to the tooth. “Because to me, it looks like you have broken the treaty.” Benjicot goaded in a sarcastic tone. “That means I have every right to run your lot down and behead you for trespassing and take this heard in the name of Blackwood as compensation for your mistake.”

The men, once again, cowered at the young Lord's words. This would not be the first time men had died for such a simple act, and it likely would not be the last.

“The herd wandered here on their own. We were sent to retrieve them,” one of the men spoke in a rushed voice. Eager to prevent violence due to the clear disadvantage his men were at. If the Bracken man had more men and weapons, he would not have thought twice about challenging the Blackwoods.

Benjicot stared with a hard look, and the rest of the Blackwood men also showed clear distrust.

“Here's what is going to happen,” Benji started, “We are going to take every cow that is currently standing on our land, and you are going to return to your farmhouse, which you call a keep and keep your heads. Otherwise, I would be happy to leave you a lot here to rot and turn food for the ravens.” 

The men dressed in gold froze, looking to one another to decide on the proper course of action: stand, fight, and die, or run home and confess to their cowardness. With a hard look, the men silently made a decision as they all drew their swords. 

*. ⋆ ✧.·:·.* ☽ ･ ｡ﾟ･ ☾ *.·:·.✧ *. ⋆

“Did you see the way they ran off?” John gasped through his cackles as he and Benjicot led a small herd of cows home to Reventree Hall, which was now within sight. 

“Aye,” Benjicot agreed with a smile, nothing raising his spirits more than a good fight.

The battle had been quick and easy from horseback, and no one had lost their life as the Blackwoods had quickly pushed the men back to their side of the border, refusing to cross it themselves. The once determined soldiers had run, urgently driving the cows remaining on their lands away from the wall and back to safety. The Backwoods laughed as they watched their enemies limp away and gathered their new cows to take back to Raventree. 

Believe it or not, Benjicot loved fighting, the art of it, how he could dance around his opponents, and the adrenalin rush he got from disarming another man. But what he had never told anyone was that he hated killing. In fact, he despised the act. For some reason, the faces of the men he killed had stayed with him, plaguing his nightmares. Their screams and begging always made his stomach churn. He imagined a wife waiting for her husband, who would never return, or a father watching the farm road waiting for his son as the mother fixed too much food for just two people. He could never admit this to anyone, for he had a reputation to maintain. It was that which deterred Bracken's attacks and protected his people. Regardless of his dislike for the act of killing, he reasoned that he would do it as much as needed to protect his people. His enemies would not think twice before running him through with a long sword and then pillaging their way to his home, only to leave it in flames. A long time ago, Benjicot told himself that if his nightmares were the price of safety for his house, his future children, and his soon-to-be wife, then it was a burden that he would happily endure. 

I need him biblically. Anyways... I think im gonna write the next few chapters at once and then post all together so yall can bindge read lol. They will meet soon.

Also, I am so excited for the mutual pining and comfort scenes I have planned, they are coming soon I promise.

[anothersadsimp]

Musical Detour

Astarion x Bard!Reader

Words: 3000

Synopsis: Imagine that scene in Tangled where they're all dancing n stuff but Tav does the music. Thats pretty much it. FLUFF

A/N: THIS STARTED AS A SMALL CUTE IDEA AND HERE WE ARE OVER 3000 WORDS LATER FUCK. Okay back into the void bye.

You and your party had just arrived at Wyrms Crossing after defeating a used to be immortal and a literal god. Tensions were high as well as the exhaustion that flooded your minds and bodies, but there was an elder brain to be stopped. Refugees surround the lower levels of the city, bickering and groaning from long travels. 

“So many people seeking refuge.” Shadowheart mummers. 

“All hoping to get into Baldur's Gate, where my father is held. They won’t get the help they need until we save him.” Wyll notes.

“One problem at a time. Why don’t we set up camp? Me, Astarion, Karlach, and Gale will take a look around.” You suggest, trying to keep your tone light. 

“Sounds good, be safe.” Shadowheart nods, before leading the others to the area we scouted. 

“Well, where are we off to now, oh fearless leader?” Astarion chides. 

You sigh, looking around the surroundings overwhelming you. You see a cobble road to your left which leads to multiple buildings with people bustling about. You turn and nod your head towards the road, “This way seems like a good start.”

You start walking down the path where it leads to the main road. Once you reach it there's a line of people waiting in front of a gate. You were about to start maneuvering around them when one of your companions stopped.

“Oh. My. Gods. It’s the Circus of the Last Days! My mum and dad would bring me when I was a kid.” Karlach exclaims, stomping in place for a moment in excitement. “Tav we have to stop in just for a little bit. Please?” 

Her excitement brought a smile to your face, and you couldn't help but want to go just for her enjoyment. Who knows what silly mischief your current company will get into going in, it certainly piqued your interest. You looked around Karlach’s large frame to the others behind her with your shoulders shrugged, and a natural smile gracing your face.

You knew just how to convince Astarion into getting into trouble, more than he actually realized after you became official. It wasn't just the effortless smile that seemed to radiate off of you that convinced him, but your eyes grew wide as soon as they met with his.

He sighs, “Fine, but if there's any clowns, you’re on your own.”

Karlach jumps with excitement, which makes your smile widen. Suddenly she grabs your wrist and pulls you towards the entrance. Astarion frowned for just a moment after your face, holding an expression that rivaled the sunshine on his skin, was ripped away.

“No stopping those two once they’re together. They seem to be the only one that can keep up with Karlach’s energy.” Gale comments before following behind them. 

Astarion watches a moment longer before jogging up to stand behind you, Karlach taking his spot next to you still holding your wrist. He is still as close to you as he can get, his chest just barely rubbing against the back of your armor. The feeling causes you to turn your head to the side just so with a small smile, always acknowledging his presence. 

Your attention gets turned back ahead of you as the line moves up. As you step up you see an elf in some of the most colorful clothes you’ve seen, along with a ghoul dressed up as hideously as the elf.

“Hello, hello, and welcome to the Circus of the Last Days!” He greets enthusiastically.

“Hello, we’d like to enter please.” You say.

“Ah yes! Come and forget your worries! Benji just has to check if you're a vicious murderer first.” He says with a smile. “Benji!

The clownish ghoul stalks up towards the four of you and begins sniffing the air.

“BLOOD. TASTY BLOOD, SO DELICIOUS” It shouts and laughs maniacally.

“Well, I gotta say that's the first. Sorry folks, I'm afraid you cannot enter. Have a nice day!” He dismisses. 

After seeing how excited Karlach had gotten, and how her shoulders drooped, you refused to take no for an answer. Even if you could feel Astarion perk up behind you at being turned away, and Gale sighing somewhere behind. 

“Oh! Did I forget to mention, I’ve been recently hired! Meet your new bard! And their band of misfits.” You exclaim, gesturing with your arms and showing your violin. 

“Oh! No one tells me anything around here. Well, welcome to the family. You’ll want to talk to Ringmaster Lucretious once you head in. Good luck!” He says before moving to open the gate to the circus.  

You smile awkwardly towards the strange gatekeeper and continue into the entryway. Once through you could see colorful booths lined up, each with a different character expressively trying to get customers. You slowly walk past each one, taking in every detail you can of each vendor. Clearly they’re swindling. Years of being a bard on the streets had taught you a thing or two about how con artists work, and sometimes having to be one. 

“Surprising to see how many people fall for these silly games, just a waste of gold.” Gale comments. 

“Common, I want to play at least one game, the point is to have fun!.” Karlach whines. 

You reach into your pouch and pull out some gold holding your hand out towards her, “Go crazy Karlach.” you say with a smile.

A fiery, playful grin adorns her face, “Thank you!” She grabs the gold from your hand and quickly brings you into a bone crushing hug before racing off.

You, Astarion, and Gale continue walking, checking out the rest of the booths. As you venture deeper into the circus you start to hear music. It sounds like a few people playing together playing a familiar song. One you know by heart. You couldn't help but follow the music, your pace increasing.

“Something catch your attention, my dear?” Astarion asks behind you, but it doesn't quite register in your head and you continue walking.

You round a wide corner to see a little band playing just a few shallow steps down. There's a gnome holding a strong steady beat, while a drow plays strums on a lute. Alongside them was an elf carrying the main melody on their flute. The music begins to take you, the beat drumming in your chest, becoming your new heartbeat. The rhythm of drow’s strumming makes it feel as if you could float away with its voice. You tracked the elfs movements as he played the main part of the song. He’s floating around the crowd, trying to keep them engaged. 

You close your eyes for a brief moment, really listening to the flute. The key they’re playing the song in, each particular note to the beloved melody they play. Slowly you grab your violin strapped to your back with its bow. You can hear the notes in your head, and you know just the right moment to jump into the song.

“Everything alright?” Gale asks, but once again the question falls upon deaf ears.

The three musicians look at eachother, and the tension and volume of the music increase. It’s about to happen, and your eyes coles once more. The main part is coming up and that's when you’ll jump in. You keep your eyes closed counting to drumming that took over your heartbeat. 

1

2

And

You leap down the 3 shallow steps to be on the same level as the other musicians starting to harmonize with the flute. Your eyes were closed, lost in the melodies the four of you create. Your body moved with the music stepping, skipping, turning in whichever way the music desired it to.

People nearby cheered, some throwing gold at you and the three others. Eventually the cheering turned into a gathering of dancing and laughing. Random circus patrons and even workers stop to watch your merry band. The laughter made your eyes open to see wide smiles surround you. Couples and children dance around you causing a wide smile to shine on your face. 

Meanwhile Astarion and Gale stood right where you left them staring at the scene before them. Astarion shifts his weight onto one leg, and his arms cross. He tilts his head to the side as he watches you, and swears your smile blinds him momentarily. Without realizing it the corners of his mouth curl up as you start to interact with the crowd. You crouch down in front of a small human child and poke them lightly with the tip of your bow during a small break. The child giggled, hands coming out to try and catch your bow but you pull away with a twirl and begin to play once again.

“Always up to something.” Gale smiles, his body relaxing.

“You mean always causing a scene? Then yes, they’re quite good at that.” Though the words seem a tad harsh, there's no sense of malice in them. That soft smile of his refusing to leave. 

After another twirl you stop a moment, out of breath but refusing to stop playing. You look over towards your companions and see them looking at the scene unfolding. Only Astarion was staring straight at you. You stare into his blood red orbs the best you can from the distance between you. Even though you’re already breathless it feels as if he took your breath away, and not the performing. Warmth spread through your body from his gaze making you feel both giddy and shy. 

You force yourself to turn away from Astarion to look at the ensemble beginning to end the song. The drum slows, the rest following its beat as the flute dies off. You begin to improv with the strums of the lute as the drum slowly fades. You lock eyes with the drow ready to finally finish the song. They strum the last chord, as you play the last few notes while slowly bowing. You draw the last note out and stop, bowed over in a small lunge-like stance and your chest heaving.

The crowd erupted into cheers, and shouts. Gold clattered onto the stone beneath your feet, which made you stand to full height. Everyone around you had wide smiles, applauding you and the others for the show. You walk over to talk to the other musicians, and help them pick up the gold.

“Did you know they could play like that?” Gale asked, one hand holding his chin clearly amused. 

“I-I had no idea.” He said in disbelief. 

They both knew you could play, have even heard you practice no matter how hard you tried to hide it. But they had no idea how well the practice had really paid off. They had no idea how well you actually perform in front of people. Astarion briefly wondered how your name wasn’t well known for your talents. 

You turn away and leave the group of musicians behind you, violin packed on your back, and head towards your companions. About half way there the small child you poked ran up and tugged on your pant leg. You crouch down to see they have a few small wildflowers in their small fist held out towards you.

“Thank you! These are beautiful.” The child lights up at your words and runs back towards their parent. You stand back up and continue to walk back towards your friends. You look down at the flowers and pick one to put behind your ear.

You stop in front of Astarion and Gale, still too preoccupied with the flowers to see their astonished faces. Once you were satisfied you looked up at them, and you can’t tell if the warmth you’re feeling is embarrassment or residual from all the dancing. 

“That was amazing!” Gale exclaims, his smile wider than you’ve ever seen. 

You let out a little huff of a chuckle, a bashful smile adorning your face, “Thanks.”

“So, you do really have talent after all.” Astarion teases, with a wicked smirk to match.

Somehow you can't help but relax from his silly teasing, a genuine smile coming back as you hit his shoulder. “Shut up” you mumble. 

“It’s really a shame Karlach missed that. She’ll be sad when she finds out, no doubt.” Gale comments. 

“Please, she would’ve burned her heart out from dancing if she were here.” Astarion cracks.

“We should probably find her.” you say trying to change the topic, “The games couldn’t have taken that long. I saw her run off that way” you point. 

“Right. Well let’s make sure she hasn’t burned anything, yes?” Gale rhetorically asks as he leads on the way in the direction you pointed towards. 

You turn to follow Gale but stop when you don’t feel the vampire's presence behind you, “You coming?” You ask.

You turn around after asking to see if he’d followed but you still see him standing there. His arms were no longer crossed, he had one hand on his hip that was jutted out and the other resting at his side. His eyes were still trained on you almost as if you had put him in a trance. He finally made eye contact, and that subtle smile that naturally came to him when looking at you grew. 

Astarion started making his way to you, never once looking away from your widened eyes. You couldn’t look away from him as he stalked towards you, Gale and Karlach forgotten from one endearing gaze from your vampire. You take note of that cute little smile that adorns his face. It’s small, but it's rare to see a smile like this one from him. Once that's genuine.

He stops in front of you, one hand coming to grab your waist to bring you closer. You raise your hands up to his chest, one hand still clutching the other flowers the child gifted you. You’re nearly chest to chest if it weren't for your arms trapped in between you two. The hand on your waist now further towards your back as his arm wraps around you. The other hand comes up to the one holding the flowers, running his fingers gently over the back of your hand. 

“You really are something, you know that?” His voice is deep, and low enough for just you to hear. 

“That I am, though I do hope you mean it in a good way.” You tease, head cocking to the side. 

“Depends on the day, really.” He says with a dumb contemplative look on his face, that smirk never leaving. “But yes, I do mean it in a good way.” 

He looks back into your eyes, before the drop down and he leans closer. Both of your eyes close in unison as he gives you a gentle, chase kiss. You unintentionally softly sigh into the kiss, loving the feeling of him close to you. He pulls away and you’re still momentarily dazed, eyes taking a second before opening to see him looking back at you.

A little chuckle escapes him at your dazed expression, “Aren’t you just an adorable little pup.” 

You hum at his teasing comment, slowly coming out of the trance he put you in. You look at the flowers still clutched in your hand and grab the small red one with your other hand. 

You somehow get closer than you already were, your lips grazing his ear, “Same can be said about you, my love.” you whisper. 

As you tease him with your breathy words against his ear, the hand holding the small dainty flower comes up to place it in his luscious locks. Your hand brushes his other gently as you work causing the smallest of gasps to escape his lips, you would’ve missed it if not being so close. You step back after twining the flower into his curls, taking in every detail of his face and your work. The red hue flower perfectly matched the highlights of his eyes as they shine in the sun that bathes the entirety of Baulders Gate.  

“Perfect.” You smile. “Anyways where did the other misfits go?” You wonder, starting to turn around looking for them. You start walking in the direction you saw Gale disappear to, leaving Astarion behind. 

He stared in bewilderment as you walked off, not quite ready for you to turn the table so fast on him in more than one way. ‘Certainly is something’ he thinks to himself as a small smile of disbelief graces his lips, before walking after you. 

BONUS:

You and Astarion were still looking for Gale and Karlach. The circus really wasn't too big, and how does one lose a tall, rambunctious, fiery Tiefling. You were coming up on the last few booths, and still no luck. Did you pass them?

“Where in the hells are they?” You wonder out loud, beginning to get tired of walking in circles. 

Astarion was cut off, from what was no doubt a teasing or snarky comment, by running footsteps approaching the both of you. People part as you see Karlach jog towards you, you can tell she’s burning hotter than usual. You brush it off knowing it's from excitement, judging by the smile on her face. You then notice she's holding something rather large in both of her arms.

“Guess what I just got!” She shouts.

She raises a large owlbear blush closer to her chest as to showcase it, arms around its middle as if she's carrying a real owlbear cub. You’re surprised it's not being chared by her excitement.

“He matches the one we got at camp, now he’s got another friend!” She screams in excitement. “That game merchant had no idea what hit him!”

“Oh, no. Please tell me you didn’t set anything on fire.” You groan

“No, but they will need a new strength gage, and hammer.” Gale chides in, strolling behind Karlach. “Quite an impressive display nevertheless.” 

“Somehow I’m not surprised. Now I heard something about a terrible clown? Let's see how terrible.” You say with genuine curiosity.

“You’re really gonna drag me to a clown show?” Astarion scoffs.

“Come on! It’ll be fun, well fun to make fun of him.” You say, having to think halfway through after listening to yourself. 

Your hands grab one of Astarions before dragging him along with you to the circus stage. He groans and reluctantly lets you lead him away. The other two follow behind you, Karlach distracted with her new plush and Gale wondering how he ended up with such fools.

[helyiios]

White button up

or, Benji’s really worried about his shirt.

Ethan was not panicking. He was not. He was perfectly fine, and he was running, because what’s the point of being Ethan fucking Hunt if you’re not, like, sprinting for your life on a regular basis, and he was perfectly relaxed.

[Hum,] Luther says in his ear, [we lost signal of B—]

“I KNOW !” he yells back, growing more and more upset, “I’m going towards his last known location. I still have amo, let’s just hope he’s still there.”

[Copy that.]

The worst part, he realises, is that he knows that Benji can handle getting roughed up a little. Wasn’t it the whole point of being an agent ? Getting your ass kicked on the regular ?

Doesn’t mean he likes to think about his friend in that position. He likes to think about him in many positions, but not this one.

He groans and keeps running, his gun kept by his side as he takes a sharp turn left, feeling the soles of his shoes screech on the pavement, and he almost loses his balance, and before he can start running again he hears some shouting at least two streets from where he was.

He picks up the pace, trotting towards the origin of the noise, and he does end up finding Benji—who was standing in front of a man, one hand raised defensively.

Technically, he should be jumping to his defence. Which is what he was just counting on doing, before catching the light glint of a sharp object held behind his friend’s back.

So instead, still hidden by a wall, he stands still and watches.

“I’m non-violent,” Benji nervously calls out to his attacker, hands still raised, “come on, there’s no need to resort to violence to solve this, is there ?”

“You and your friends blew up our headquarters and killed our boss,” the man seethes, visibly furious, “and you think you’re going to get out of it so easily ? Oh, I think the fuck not.”

“Well, technically I didn’t blow it up, it was my mate. If you really want to get specific, you’ll have to fight him. He doesn’t know how to, though…”

“I don’t know what you’re playing at, but it’s not fucking funny ! Stop talking and come closer so I can fuck you up.”

“But I don’t want to,” Benji whines, his right hand still holding the sharp tool, “c’mon, please ?”

The other man snorts, his fighting stance unmoving despite his raised eyebrow.

“Are you seriously negotiating I let you go ? Man, you are not a good agent, aren’t you ?”

“It’s not that,” he moans, visibly upset, “it’s just…”

He sighs, running his free hand through his hair.

“This is tailored Loro Piana, and I don’t want to get it dirty.”

From his hiding spot, Ethan has to slap a hand on his mouth to keep silent. Was Benji seriously worried about his clothes ?

“Shut up !” his assailant finally roars, running towards the agent at full speed, “be a man and FIGHT !”

With a sharp move Benji slashes the guy’s face, using the element of surprise of the concealed knife to slam his cheek as powerfully as he could, sending him stammering a few steps back. Quickly he gets back into position, and he aims for the neck, eyes and skull first, surprisingly ending up with cutting the tip of the man’s nose, and he can’t help but grimace out of disgust at this, pulling away to avoid getting punched.

His next move isn’t so lucky, because the man is suddenly tackling him, and his head hits the pavement so hard he thinks he passes out for half a second, but before he gets the chance to fight back, there’s a strong jab at his jaw, and he furiously spits out a mouthful of blood.

Thankfully his knife is still tightly held in his hand, and without thinking he shoves the blade inside the other’s left eye, twisting and straining, pushing the man off him as he leaves the weapon there, hopping back a few metres away.

He looks down at himself and at the red stained crisp shirt, and he groans.

“Really ?!” he protests, spreading his arms disbelievingly, “do you know how expensive this is ?! You guys have no respect for textile !”

His attacker is still halfway on the ground, trying to pull the knife out without screeching in pain, and Benji can’t help but stare, his upper lip raised in absolute disgust, his arms crossed. He’s still at a safe distance from him.

“I’m getting really tired of having to fight back idiots who think it’s okay to go after the little tech guy, because oh, of course he’s going to go easy on us ! Well guess what,” he spits out, genuinely upset, “some of us also like the thrill of the field ! If you wanted to vanilla fight with shitty punches, just ask Luther ! I love the man, but he’s shit at hand to hand combat, okay ?! And honestly, like, did you think I didn’t expect at least one person to run after me ?! Do I look stupid to you ?!”

“You’re…a fucking…lunatic,” the other man difficultly chokes out, unable to get back up, blood pouring of out of his face. “Who the fuck…are you ?”

“And like, it’s almost insulting they only sent one guy after me. Like what, I couldn’t take more people on ? I’m not Ethan, but I’m not that helpless ! And I especially brought my knife so I could switch the mood a bit and not get it done too quick with a head shot, do you realise how disappointing this is ?! And you ruined my favourite shirt !”

The man seems to give up on him, because as soon as the knife is out of his eye, he collapses on his back, breathing heavily. He tracks Benji’s movement as he watches him walk back towards him, crouching by his side. The agent inspects him throughly, patting him in search of the disk they’d been after. He finds it in his left pant pocket.

“Don’t mind me,” Benji pouts, taking it out and putting it in the inside pocket of his coat, “no bad feelings, nothing personal, mate. Huh, does it hurt ?” he then casually asks, chin resting on the palm of him hand.

“…what ?”

“The whole eye thing. Did it hurt ?”

The other man closes his eyes, letting out a breathless laugh.

“Like a bitch.”

“That’s interesting.”

Benji gets back up, dusting his pants a little uselessly, grabbing his knife again and putting it back in his place.

“Great doing business with you.”

“Go fuck…yourself.”

“Jesus. So rude.”

Ethan, who’d been somewhere in between mesmerised and horrified, finally steps out, waving awkwardly at his field technician, almost shy.

“Huh, not interrupting anything, I hope ?” he asks sort of lamely, “are you alright ?”

Benji almost jumps out of his skin, clearly not expecting him. He manages to swallow down his helpless and high pitched yelp.

“Huh—yeah,” he says instead, slicking his hair back, “I was just finished. Do you want to, like, put a bullet in him ? I don’t have my gun on me.”

Ethan shrugs.

“He’ll die soon enough,” he decides.

His friend hums, not caring enough to contradict him.

“I got the disk, by the way.”

“Oh, yeah, I saw that. Congrats, Benj. And huh, sorry about your shirt.”

“Yeah, it’s a shame,” he sighs, shaking his head. “How did you find me ? I lost comms with you at least twenty minutes ago.”

“I kind of, just ran around,” Ethan admits. “This city isn’t really big.”

“Is it weird that I’m really craving bolognese right now ?”

“Dunno if there’s the required ingredients at the safehouse, but I could come up with something.”

“That’d be lovely.”

“Well,” the older man smiles, holding out his hand, “let’s head back.”

Benji grins, taking it gratefully.

“Yeah, let’s.”

[nightcolorz]

okay i swear last from me tonight and no spoilers for show but i need armand happiness can we have some book armand / devils minion headcanons. literally about anything- their relationship, what they like to do, post canon, general armandisms that make me love him So Much?

don’t worry about bothering me I love when u interact with me <33 ok so I have a rlly cringe post canon devils minion head canon that I have been wanting to talk about but it’s rlly cringe and self indulgent 😭💔 but tbh, about as cringe as anything in late book canon so 🤷 I hope u enjoy and it makes u feel better, it’s my go to comfort headcanon

so I think Anne rices canon introduction of “through Science™️ vampires can conceive children with the help of DNA 🧬 , but they will come out as genetic clones, literally like identical twins but they r ur child, and lestat has a canon clone son” is a stroke of unhinged world building genius that is greatly underutilized by the fandom! I also think the vampire chronicles fandom is rlly missing out on some cringe fandom trademarks (like fandom ocs, ridiculous aus, stuff like that) bcus of the lawsuit thing probably. So anyway, I made the change I want to see in the world, and I have a genetic clone fan child oc 🙏. inspired by Armand’s canonically paternal personality and nurturing tendencies and soft spot for children, I like to think that way way post canon (around modern day) Armand and Daniel decide to Start A Family, and go through the process lestat did of conceiving a clone child with a surrogate (through armands dna), and they have a son (clone of Armand) named Ivan (after Armand’s father, I’m sappy) ! 🥰🥰 . It’s so silly I know, but I think having the opportunity to raise a human child and getting to give him and watch him live the mortal life he constantly envies and hoped to be able to provide Benji and Sybelle (before it was stripped from them) would be like, rlly good for Armand, and definitely I could see him in later canon wanting to pursue having a child with Daniel bcus of this unresolved grief. The clone layer, as ridiculous as it is, adds another dimension of sappy bcus not only will Armand get to live out the catharsis of giving a human child the fulfilled human life he never got, he will also get to see *himself*, or an almost too literal embodiment of his inner child, get to experience what he never did, and live that happy and safe childhood that Armand was deprived of. I think watching his son who looks just like him grow up and become a man while Armand is eternally frozen as a teen would be hard for him, but still healing and important.

So in my heart, post canon Armand and Daniel have their shit together enough to healthily (tho imperfectly) raise their clone son Ivan, who lives and dies a mortal. Ivan is the most spoiled child to ever live and he has a lavish playroom that is practically a house, fifty iPads, probably like ten ponies, etc etc. I imagine since he shares so much of Armand’s dna he strongly carry’s a lot of his traits, such as autism and strong hyper fixations. And I like to think he’s a little bit of a brat like Armand was as a child🙏 especially since his other dad Daniel does little to discourage those tendencies 😭. Ivan is a screen addict, a model train addict, and a Wolf Kid. He grows up to be the freakiest, strangest, long haired big bearded 5’6 ginger man at the gay bar. As a toddler Armand dresses him like a tiny fancy little man bcus he won’t have any son of his committing any fashion crimes, but unfortunately for Armand Ivan takes after Dad-niel in the fashion department and by the time he’s able to dress himself he wears wolf themed t-shirts and cargo shorts everyday 💔💔

Daniel is rlly naturally good with kids which is incredibly sexy and romantic to Armand. He’s the fun dad 💀 Armand is a little too strict and a little to over protective bcus of how trauma based I imagine his parenting would be, and daniels laid back, comfy and understanding energy helps level that out. When he’s a teenager Ivan goes through a rebellious emo phase and Armand and Daniel have to spend all of their energy desperately trying to ensure Ivan doesn’t tap into his addiction gene or his strong susceptibility to inheriting his father’s personality disorders 💀. He is very doted on and very loved, he is given more care and attention than any other child would be capable of receiving 😭. Armand is convinced he’s a child genius and will definitely cure cancer and become a world leader, so he tends to parade him around like his prized possession that everyone needs to know is incredibly special during Vampire Family reunions or whatever goes on post canon. ivan is not allowed to interact with Most vampires, except for Uncle Louis, who finds it emotionally difficult to be around children 😭 and Uncle Lestat (only under careful supervision of Uncle Louis), who loves throwing Ivan around like a ragdoll and telling him embarrassing facts about Armand 💀

I hope u like this lol, thank u for the ask!!! <33 u r always welcome to ask me for headcanons or ask for my thoughts, that is my favorite thing. Anyways, for those who r invested, here’s my Ivan art

[mexicanpadfoot]

🐓Marauders in Stardew Valley 🐓

I went off the deep end again, friends! This is my take on who the marauders would be! Obviously some ages don’t align and such, it’s just for funsies.

Alex-Sirius: sporty, crushed dreams, asshole to women but surprising character development when it turns out they’re fruity. Doesn’t live with their parents. Wanted to go pro but was sent to Azkaban Stardew Valley.

Sam-James: aloof kid with no worries, loves his sport accoutrement (skateboard), relative,y easy life.

Harvey-Remus: canon Harvey: I basically live in the hospital, wash your hands! Don’t go die in the mines! I had to fix you up after you ran head first into danger! Fanon Harvey: GRRRRR IM HOT, A-WOOOOOO

Elliot-Gilderoy: I’m such a grandiose writer, come on my boat that totally won’t sink, I think I’m really important but live in this shack? Also my cologne is totally not fish musk!

Sam-Regulus: sad emo boy who hates his parent and has issues-nonissues with a sibling. Why do they love them more than me? Stuck in his cave. Friends usually come to him. Probably doesn’t know how to swim either. Stole the bike from Sirius and picked up his smoking habit too.

Shane-Benjy: douchey, sometimes in the story but you kinda have to seek him out, I can fix him and make him into anything I want!

Gus-Lucius: I have a wife I treat like shit and don’t deserve, money money money money

Kent: Remus after October 31st, need I say more?

Gus-Peter: I’m kinda doing my thing but also I’m incredibly charismatic and kind, I’ve got the good foods, sometimes overlooked but integral.

Maru-Lily: smart science gurl, boss bitch, single mom who works two jobs, who loves her kids and never stops,

Abigail-Marlene: I want to go into the mines! I want to swing a sword! I’ll beat everyone at egg hunting! Dyed hair lesbian. Could also be Panda because she eats rocks?

Emily-Pandora: ritualistic drugs and imaginary non-native animals

Haley-Mary: hot girl who seems shallow but is more than meets the eye, strangely talented.

Leah-Hope: cottagecore living in the woods woooo

Pam-Druella: sad angry drunk old woman I guess

Jodie-Alice: she just gives me warm mom vibes and I’m sure she could kick my ass if she wanted.

Caroline:Effie: GIVE ME TEA AND HUG ME, LEAVE MONTY PIERRE AND MARRY ME

Marnie-Rosemerta: this woman would eat serving drinks, if she were ever at the bar when I needed her

Morris-Snape: stop spewing propaganda and take a hit please, I’m sure you have a tragic backstory and want to “help the town” somehow but Voldemort capitalism isn’t the answer.

Governor-Arcturus Black: drops in, passes judgement that makes you scrape by or fucks you up, then leaves.

Henchperson-Walburga: evil propaganda machine that’s all

Leo-Teddy: half feral kid with no parents

Mr Qi-Voldy: weird skin lurky dude that’s behind a lot of suspicious things, knows insider information about town, runs a gambling den

Krobus-Evan: dark, lovely, can and will fuck you up, likely ace

Dwarf-Barty: feral little goblin that sells you explosives

Lewis-Dumbledore: I hate this mf so much he is definitely embezzling funds and using other people to do his job. Has a statue of himself

Willy-Madeye: I look a little rough around the edges and as if I should’ve been out of commission a long time ago but I’m still kicking and I’ve got a ship that’ll take you far, kid

Demetrius-Orion: shitty father figure, doing his thing mostly and just being a bother to his family

Robin-Minerva: everyone loves her, highly competent, cutting but nice, lesbian I will not be taking questions

Vincent-Harry: happy wild haired kid

Jas-Luna: airheaded insightful cutie

Sandy-Dorcas: I’m hot, sexy, I can and will fuck you up, bring me roses

Wizard-Alphard: funny comphet past man who fucked off from his family and lives happily in the woods

Marlon-Lyall: hit monster hunter daddy

What do you think, who did I miss?

@toburnawitch this is entirely your fault btw

[fireinmoonshot]

An Ethan hunt x reader where the reader gets injured on a mission and Ethan is super worried over her? Thank you!!

You’re more focused on Benji’s voice in your ear instructing Ethan on where to go than you are on yourself, and that’s exactly why you don’t notice the man coming up behind you until the very last second. Your instincts kick in, then, and you spin in an attempt to dodge him as he swipes his knife towards you.

It misses you by pure luck.

You’re not quite lucky enough for the second swipe.

It slashes through the upper sleeve of your shirt and you can feel the blood starting to seep down your shoulder and coat the white cloth red. It stings, but you try not to let that distract you anymore than you already are. 

“Could do with a hand here, guys,” you say into the comms.

The man across from you narrows his eyes at you calling for backup. 

He takes that as a chance though, diving towards you. You dodge him again, swiftly kicking out your foot and sending him tumbling to the ground. There’s no use running. He’s taller, has longer legs and will catch up with you in no time. You just have to hold out until backup arrives and you can get rid of him. 

That’s the problem with this being one of your very first missions. You’re not quite as confident in your abilities as the rest of your team is. They’re all seasoned agents. You are not.

The man stands to his feet and you can tell you’ve made him mad by tripping him over. You let out a breath just as he dodges towards you again, but the one thing you’d missed is that he’d pulled another knife from his pocket while he’d been on the ground. You only notice when you feel it sink into your side. You let out a gasp at the feeling. It’s much worse than the slight sting from the cut on your arm.

Before you can do anything else, you hear a gunshot and the man in front of you sinks to the ground, taking the knife with him. You can’t help but follow him to the ground, sliding down the wall, your hands going to put pressure on the wound on your side as you look to see who had saved you – well, tried to.

You let out a breath of relief as you see Ethan running towards you. He skids to his knees beside you, his eyes focused only on the blood soaking your arm and his hands move to inspect it the cut. 

“You okay?” His voice is panicked. 

“I’m okay,” you nod at him, wincing a bit as he moves your arm. 

He looks at you properly then, and that’s when his eyes drift down to your blood covered hands pressing into your side. He’s on the other side of you instantly, swearing as you move your hands so he can see the stab wound. 

“You are not okay,” he says, a hint of anger in his voice. “I thought I got here in time.”

“It’s okay, Ethan,” you do your best to smile at him. “I’m glad you got here when you did.”

Ethan shakes his head. “I’m sorry, I should have been quicker.”

If your hands weren’t covered in blood, you’d reach up and make him look at you instead of the wound on your side. His eyes seem to have trouble leaving it.

“Hey, Ethan,” you try. “Look at me. Look at me.”

A little regretfully, his eyes make their way to yours, but keep flickering down to your hands on the wound. 

“You have nothing to be sorry for, okay? Just… please get me to a hospital so I can get this looked out cause I really don’t wanna stay bleeding out here in this alley.” 

Ethan nods and then takes a deep breath, composing himself. “I’m gonna help you stand up, okay, but I’m gonna need you to keep pressure on that? You think you can do that?”

“I’ve got this,” you nod. 

He helps you stand up slowly and with as minimal pain on your part as possible. 

“Hey, Ethan,” you say as soon as you’re standing up.

“You okay?” He asks, worried.

“Thank you for saving my life.”

[lackadaisicallizard]

Smart

A ravenrock microfic (peter x benjy)

“My mind is blank.” Peter’s head is in his hands, his tone defeated. 

“Come on babe, you know this one,” Benjy replies, his voice as calm and patient as ever. It’s a little infuriating how collected he is sometimes.

“When will I ever need to know the properties of a boomslang in my day to day life?” 

Benjy chuckles. “If you ever get bitten by one, you might change your tune.” 

Peter cocks an eyebrow at his amused boyfriend. “I’m never going to be stupid enough to get bitten by one.” 

“Didn’t you say James did when he was a kid once?” 

“Exactly.” 

Benjy laughs again, shaking his head. “I love you.” 

Peter hums. “Will you still love me if I fail this potions essay?” 

“You’re not going to fail the potions essay! You’ve got the best tutor in the school.” 

Peter’s lips curl up into a smirk. “Oh yeah, and when does he show up then?” 

“Oh fuck you, Pettigrew.” 

The smirk widens. “Is that an offer?” 

Benjy rolls his eyes but leans in all the same, waiting for Peter to meet him halfway before pressing their lips together. It starts as a slow kiss because even if they are tucked away in the corner, they’re still in the school library. 

Then one of Peter’s hands finds Benjy’s cheek and he feels a hand on his knee as the Ravenclaw moves in even closer. Peter can’t help but smile into the kiss, the warmth of the moment contrasting with the coolness of the library. As their kiss deepens, Peter’s fingers gently trace the outline of the other boy’s jaw, and the faintest gasp escapes Benjy’s lips as Peter’s fingers find the nape of his neck, weaving his fingers into soft brown hair and holding him there. 

Time seems to slow, and the awareness of their surroundings fades away, leaving only this moment. Only Benjy. 

Always Benjy. 

Driving him crazy with his beautiful face and even more beautiful brain. 

God, he wishes he could just live inside the brain of Benjy Fenwick, even just for a day. Just to see inside the mind of someone truly beautiful and witty and just good. 

Peter knows he doesn’t deserve him, but he’s far too selfish to give him up now. 

Because even if he can’t live inside Benjy’s mind, Benjy lives in his. He always will. 

They pull apart then, their breathing a little ragged, their heart rates slightly more elevated than they were a few minutes ago. 

“Can we ditch the studying yet?” Peter asks, already knowing the answer. 

Benjy smiles as he leans back in his chair, his eyes still very much sparkling as they stay on Peter’s face. “Not a chance, Pettigrew.”

It was worth a shot. 

“What if I told you that boomslang skin is used in both polyjuice and beautification potions?” 

Benjy blinks at him. “Did you know that the whole time?” 

Peter puts on his best innocent expression. “Maybe.” 

“Then why on Earth did you pretend you didn’t?” 

“Because when I don’t know things you tell me the answers, and I love when you tell me things.”

“Really?”

Peter nods. “Seriously. I could hear you go on about shrivelfigs for hours. Your mind is ridiculously sexy.”  

Benjy is quiet for a good ten seconds then as he stares at his boyfriend with a stunned expression. Peter is just starting to worry about the silence when Benjy stands up and holds out his hand. Peter takes it, bewildered, as he also stands and follows the other boy’s lead through the library. 

Peter finds his voice as they pass through the door. “Um, Benjy, where are we going?”��

“Back to your dorm.” Benjy’s tone is firm. 

“What about the studying?” Peter asks the question but has no intention on stopping the current unexpected chain of events. 

“We’ll get back to that later.”

“Is this because I called your brain sexy?” 

“Partly, yes.” 

“And the other part?” 

Benjy stops them then. They’re at the base of the stairs to Gryffindor tower. “What is a Chizpurfle carapace used for?”

Peter furrows his brow. “Um, what?” 

“Just answer the question, Pettigrew.” 

“Um, they’re often used in antidotes to common poisons, but they’re quite hard to break open so they’re often fed to venomous tentaculas first.” 

Benjy takes an audible breath at that, eyes widening slightly. “And Horklump juice?” 

“It’s used in the making of various magical ointments. Benjy, what is this-“ 

His question is cut off as he finds himself pushed up against the castle wall, Benjy’s mouth finding his once again. They kiss for an extended moment before coming up for air, Peter using the break to ask a question. 

“Not that I’m complaining about this in the slightest, but are you telling me that me knowing the properties of potions ingredients is turning you on right now?” 

Benjy shrugs. “Yeah, kind of. Is that a problem?” 

Peter smiles, noting the lightly flushed skin only inches away from his own. Benjy’s lips have been kissed a darker shade of pink and his usually neat hair is slightly disheveled. 

“Nope. Not a problem at all.” 

“Good.” Another chaste kiss. “Just one thing.” 

“Yes?” Peter doesn’t even need to know what it is that he wants, he would give Benjy absolutely anything. 

“Don’t hide how smart you are from me. Ever.” 

Peter smiles. “Oh you want a little competition, huh?” 

Benjy snorts. “I wouldn’t go that far, Pettigrew.” 

“Are you underestimating me, Fenwick?” 

A smirk. “I wouldn’t dream of it.” 

And he knows in that moment that he means it, because people underestimate Peter all the time. He’s used to it. He often prefers it, even. 

But with Benjy- well he’s finally met his match. 

Because Benjy sees him. Not his friends, not his pranks, not Wormtail or Pete, but him. 

Peter Pettigrew.

Whose world is slowly beginning to revolve around a wonderful, kind, blue-eyed, pink-cheeked, brown-haired boy. And as they stand there, wrapped in the moment of each other, Peter is nothing but grateful for the boy who sees him for who he truly is.

[justabigassnerd]

hey y’all I just wanted to try something out so I wrote this little Ethan Hunt x daughter!reader fic on the car journey I was on earlier to just practice & explore their dynamic/characterisation.

this was inspired by this tiktok & was furthered by talking to @horseslovers2016 & @maverick-wingman

1k words

Warnings - mentions of kidnappings & death/murder

“Dad, you really need to take a nap.” Ethan looked up from where he was intently staring out the window of the safe house to where you were watching him with folded arms and a raised eyebrow.

“A nap? What am I, three?” Ethan retorts with a light scoff, returning his gaze to the hustle and bustle that was happening outside the window. Sometimes he longed to be like the people outside, ignorant to the IMF and their missions, living their happy lives with no worries.

“You hardly sleep through the night. You’ve been doing nothing but stare out the window since we got her despite the fact you’ve got no orders. You’re almost willing something to happen. You need rest if you want to stay on top form.” You say, crossing to the window and leaning against the wall as you watch him carefully.

“y/n, if I’m asleep and something happens-”

“Dad, you literally made sure I have Benji and Luther on speed dial. Hell, I have Ilsa and half the IMF on my phone if I need to contact someone. I just want you to get some rest. It’s been quiet since we got here we should take advantage of it.” You say softly, your eyes giving away the worry you had for your dad. You knew your dad was on edge, the last mission had taken a lot out of him, a lot of them did and you wished he’d use the time you had now to rest rather than worrying about something else happening. Ethan turns his head to look over at you, softening when he sees the worry in your eyes.

“y/n/n, I’m fine. You don’t need to worry about me. It’s my job to worry about you. Not the other way round.” He says, resting a gentle hand on your shoulder and squeezing it softly.

“These missions are exhausting you more and more dad. You need to rest. Just for an hour or so. I’ll call Benji and he can keep watch with me while you rest.” You say, eyes pleading as you look up at your dad. Ethan lets out a soft exhale through his nose at your insistence. You were too stubborn for your own good. Too much like him.

“I’ll rest. I won’t sleep but I will rest.” Ethan attempts to bargain, watching as you fight the urge to roll your eyes.

“You will sleep because you need it. You’re going to go in your room and get in that bed while I call Benji. If you’re not in there by the time Benji picks up I’m asking him to bring a damn sedative.” You say firmly, folding your arms once more as Ethan lets out a soft chuckle.

“You really are my kid aren’t you?” He says fondly with a gentle shake of the head.

“Absolutely I am. Now get into bed.” You order, making Ethan hold his hands up in mock surrender as he crosses to the door to his room.

“You know I’m the parent here, right?” He says with a laugh as you roll your eyes, pulling your phone out of your pocket and dialling Benji’s number as Ethan disappears into his room. After calling Benji, you put your phone away and cross to your dad’s bedroom door, carefully opening it and pausing when you see Ethan sat up in bed, studying a newspaper for any hints for something that could lead to a mission.

“Dad, I swear you have one job right now and it’s to get some sleep and not think about whatever your next mission could be.” You scold, taking the newspaper from his hand, folding it up and placing it out of his reach.

“Come on, it won’t kill me to be updated on what’s going on.” Ethan argues, stopping himself from saying any more when you gave him the death glare he’s almost certain you inherited from him.

“I know you have nightmares. I know sleep isn’t something that comes easy to you. But is there anything I can do to help?” You say softly, perching yourself on the edge of his bed before your eyes light up with an idea, quickly kicking your shoes off and curling up into your dads side.

“What’s this?” Ethan asks with a chuckle, wrapping his arms around you as you curl up.

“I remember when I was little, I wouldn’t be able to sleep unless I was with you. Maybe I can help you the way you helped me.” You say, eyes slipping closed as you felt Ethan press a kiss to the top of your head. It took you a matter of minutes to find sleep, your slow and soft breaths bringing a smile to Ethan’s face as he felt a sense of calm he hadn’t felt in what seemed like forever wash over him as he allows his tired eyes to close, sleep claiming him almost instantly.

“y/n?” Benji calls softly through the small safe house as he enters, concerned when he receives no response nor seeing any evidence you were in. Benji immediately had every worst case scenario running through his head. If you were missing, Ethan would kill him, revive him to help him find you and then kill him again. Benji crosses to Ethan’s bedroom door, hoping if Ethan’s in, he’ll get some answers. Benji stops in his tracks after carefully opening the door and being greeted with the sight of you curled up in your dad’s arms, both of you fast asleep with the faintest of smiles gracing your faces. With his mind now at rest, Benji carefully closes the door and returns to the small table in the middle of the main room, sitting down at the table and putting his laptop on the table and opening it up to keep himself occupied. As he unlocks his laptop his eyes flick down to his bag and he lets out a soft chuckle.

“Guess I didn’t need the sedative.”

[smilesrobotlover]

Whumptober day 12- underground caverns

WOOOO did all this last minute so much so that I didn’t have time to make it any longer! Stay tuned for tomorrow to see what the deal is ;)

Warnings for a mention of blood and flesh and someone hurting his ankle.

~~~~~~

Two days had passed inside the small inn with everyone pitching in to help nurse Rusl and Leon back to health. To Rusl’s dismay, Leon had given up his breakfast and his coat the day they trekked up the mountain for him, and so the first knight was completely out of it, needing care for his lack of self-care. Not to mention the wound in his side that Rusl gave him when he was being controlled by the puppeteer.

With Ammon’s help, the injured men were healing well, with Leon acting more like himself as he recovered. Talon was also recovering, feeling much better and refreshed with rest, food, and knowing that Rusl was recovering well. Overall, things were looking up for the men, but Ammon was beginning to grow worried.

They were running out of rupees, which meant that they would be kicked out soon if they didn’t get more. And Ammon knew that they couldn’t afford to be kicked out. The red potions helped speed up Rusl’s recovery, but he still needed time. So Ammon decided to go out to try to make more rupees, with Linebeck, Benji, and Kass following to help him.

The village was crowded with its residents sitting or running around, and Ammon kept his eyes peeled for someone who would need assistance with anything. Normally, a person in need would give a handsome prize to those that helped them.

The men split up and began searching for ways to make rupees. Ammon helped a cat get down from a roof and fetched apples from the store for an old woman. He overall got ten rupees and five wildberries from it, which was better than nothing, but still not good. After selling the wildberries for fifteen rupees, he decided to search for the others, praying that they had better luck than him.

He found Linebeck first, who was angrily wringing out his overcoat by the fountain. Ammon walked up to him, confusion apparent on his face.

“What happened here?”

Linebeck huffed, laying his coat in the sun. “This guy had me dive into a river to get his stupid chest that he lost! I nearly died!”

“Oh.” Ammon stared at his coat as Linebeck began to wring out his hair.

“Then, the idiot gave me an egg for my ‘efforts’. An egg! What the heck am I supposed to do with an egg?”

“Just sell it.”

“And what will that get me? Huh? Not enough for what I went through! I won’t be able to keep the money anyways!”

Ammon rolled his eyes. “Linebeck we need the money to stay in the inn. What would you even need rupees for anyways?”

“You don’t need to know everything about my life!” Linebeck argued, handing him the egg. It was a golden egg to Ammon’s surprise, and he wondered if it would sell well. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Benji approaching them holding a big bag, looking smug.

“Please tell me those are rupees,” Ammon said, and Benji laughed.

“No, it’s even better than rupees!” Benji reached in and pulled out a seed. “It’s a deku seed! It’ll blind anyone when you throw it!”

Ammon stared, unamused. “Benji, we need rupees, not seeds.”

Benji stared back, glancing at the bag of seeds, before throwing own in front of Ammon. He wasn't lying when he said that it’d blind anyone, because Ammon couldn’t see a thing for a few seconds. When his vision returned, he saw Benji’s stupid face smiling at him, and Ammon glared.

“Don’t do that again! Now sell those so we can get more rupees, dang it!”

Benji pouted and put the bag of useless junk away. “They’ll come in handy someday! Just you see!”

Ammon rolled his eyes and glanced at the golden egg, handing it to Linebeck.

“This is golden, it could sell for fifty rupees at the minimum. Sell it.”

Linebeck huffed and got up from the fountain, trudging his way to shop while Ammon and Benji watched. Goddesses, it felt like Ammon was with his son when he was a teenager. Always distracted by anything that blew up and pouting over everything. An ache to see his son again suddenly appeared in his chest, but he pushed it away, needing to trust that his son will be able to protect himself. Right now, he needed to focus on his friends.

While waiting for Linebeck to return, Ammon spotted Kass walking towards them, cradling his left wing and looking upset. Ammon raised a brow and walked up to him.

“Are you ok?”

Kass’s eyes widened and he forced a smile. “Oh yes! I’m fine… I just… haven’t gotten any rupees.”

“You and everyone else. It’s alright,” Ammon said, turning to glare at Benji. “Benji, make sure you sell those so we can get rupees. Hopefully we’ll get enough for a couple of more days.”

“But—”

“Quit acting like a child and sell them! Right now staying at the inn is the most important thing, not having useless seeds!”

Benji huffed. “These seeds aren’t useless! I showed you what they can do!”

“Sure, they’re not useless if you want to flashbang someone. Sell them.”

Benji groaned and stomped away, leaving Ammon and Kass alone by the fountain. Ammon glanced at Kass and chuckled slightly, who was laughing as well.

“Sometimes I wonder if he’s secretly a child with facial hair,” the rito said, and Ammon nodded.

“I wonder that as well.”

“Excuse me.”

Ammon and Kass turned to see who was talking to them, and an older man was on the opposite side of the fountain, looking frazzled and nervous.

“Hello,” Ammon greeted, hoping that the man had rupees to offer.

“I heard you’re doing jobs around here, yes?” He asked, and Ammon nodded. “I have a job for you, and I’ll pay you a handsome prize for it! I just…I need help.”

Ammon and Kass glanced at each other, and they both nodded.

“Of course, what can we do?”

The man looked relieved and he pointed to the well to the side of town.

“There’s something wrong with the well. When I went to get water, I received a bucket full of blood and flesh!”

Ammon and Kass glanced at each other again, an air of unease falling between them.

“We depend on that well water, so please, find out what’s going on down there, and I’ll pay you!” The man pleaded. Ammon nodded, and rested his hand on the man’s arm.

“We’ll take care of it, do not worry,” he said, and the man smiled.

“Thank you, oh thank you! My home is right by the well, so knock on my door to tell me what’s going on.”

“Of course.”

The man smiled again and walked away, entering what Ammon assumed was his home. He let out a sigh and looked up at Kass, who looked nervous.

“Well, sounds like we have an opportunity to get more rupees, yes?”

Kass nodded, but he didn’t look any less nervous. “Yes, but that’s… horrifying. What could cause the water to turn to blood?”

Ammon shrugged. “It could be a dead animal. Or it could be something that isn’t blood but looks like blood.”

“Yes, but what about the flesh?”

Ammon hummed. “It’s most likely a dead animal in that case. Either way, I hope he does pay well. We could use the rupees.”

Kass nodded and glanced over, spotting Linebeck and Benji walking up to the two.

“How much did you guys get?” Ammon asked, and Linebeck huffed.

“Fifty rupees.”

“I got 25 rupees,” Benji jumped in, and Ammon frowned.

“How many of those seeds did you have?”

“Thirty.”

“Wouldn’t you have thirty rupees then?”

Benji huffed. “I kept some of them, ok?”

Ammon sighed and shrugged. “Well, that’ll buy us two more nights. But we just got a request to investigate the well, so we’ll be doing that.”

“Hopefully we’ll get plenty of rupees from this!” Kass said, and Ammon nodded.

“What are we needing to investigate?” Linebeck asked, and Ammon paused, knowing how the man got around blood.

“We’re—there’s something wrong with the water, so we need to fix it,” he said simply, and Linebeck frowned.

“How’re we gonna do that?”

“No idea, let’s go.”

Ammon led the rest of the men to the well, which looked like a normal well. But when Ammon looked down, he could smell a hint of the metallic smell of blood. No doubt that guy was telling the truth.

“Oh goddesses, what is that smell?” Benji asked, pinching his nose.

“Clearly whatever’s causing the bad water,” Ammon answered, and hopped over the edge, grabbing onto the ladder on the side. “Now come on.”

The other men followed reluctantly, and Ammon hit the bottom with a splash. He looked around where he was, feeling cramped inside the small well and wondering how all of them were going to fit comfortably. Benji landed next, his eyes narrowed as he observed the well.

“I’m no wellologist, but shouldn’t there be…I dunno…water?” He asked, kicking the shallow water before him. Ammon frowned and nodded, also feeling strange at how little water there was. He knelt to the ground just as Linebeck reached them, dipping his hands into the little puddles of water around him. Where he was expecting blood, he only got normal well water. Strange.

Benji nearly toppled onto him causing Ammon to fall onto his hands for support. He turned and saw Benji and Linebeck both staring at Kass, who was clearly taking up too much space.

“I–Um… I’m so sorry,” the rito mumbled, holding his wings close to him.

“It’s alright, Kass,” Ammon said, and Linebeck rubbed his head, staring at the stone around them.

“Yeah, but do we all need to be here?” Linebeck asked, leaning against the ladder. “Seems a bit crowded down here.”

“I suppose you’re right, Linebeck. I doubt we need everyone here. Two of you can go up above and wait.”

Linebeck stared at the ladder, as did Benji, and the two raced to climb it first.

“Get off!” Linebeck grunted, trying to shove him down the ladder, but Benji remained stubborn.

“I was here first!” Benji grunted back, the two fighting while Ammon stared bemused.

“Guys, I said two of you can go up, not one. There’s no need to fi—”

The step Benji was on suddenly snapped, and the short man yelped as he fell backwards, tumbling until he hit the stone wall. Except, to Ammon’s surprise, he didn’t stop rolling. Instead he phased through the wall and vanished before their very eyes. The men all stared in shock, it being silent for a long moment.

“W-what the f— did-did you guys see that?” Linebeck asked after jumping off the ladder, his hands in his hair. “BENJI! I’M SORRY, ARE YOU OK?”

It was silent for another minute until a strained voice from beyond the wall spoke.

“I think I twisted my ankle.”

The men all glanced at each other, and Ammon stepped towards the wall, putting his hand against it. Just like Benji, it went through as if nothing were there, and he poked his head through to see his friend laying on the ground, an uncomfortable look on his face. The two made eye contact and Benji forced a smile and a thumbs-up.

“So there’s a trick wall I guess,” he said, his voice sim pain. Ammon glanced down at his ankles and frowned, kneeling to observe them.

“Are you alright?”

“I don’t know, my ankle kinda hurts,” Benji mumbled, and based on the pain in his voice, it seemed like he wasn’t overreacting.

“Well, it’s best if you stay off of it for now—”

“Oh my.”

Ammon looked up to see Linebeck and Kass poking their heads through the strange fake wall, staring at the view ahead of them. He turned to look as well, noticing the large cavern right in front of him. There was more water, but it was a sickly green that shined against the torches lighting up the area. In the distance, a strange floating skull floated around, not noticing the group of men. Ammon stood up and drew his sword, a sense of dread overwhelming him.

“Come on guys,” he mumbled, stepping towards a platform within the water. He hopped over to it and gestured for the others to follow, though they only sat there.

“Ammon is—is the option to go back up still on the table?” Linebeck asked, his voice cracking, and Ammon frowned.

“No. There’s more than enough room down here, now grab Benji and get over here.”

“Why do I have to?”

“Because you’re the reason he’s hurt in the first place, now get over here!”

Linebeck huffed and stepped out from the wall staring at Benji as he was a pile of dirt.

“Get over here, baby,” Benji said with a grin, and Linebeck physically recoiled, grabbing him as if he were a piece of seaweed covered in slimy gunk.

“Why can’t you just be normal,” he grumbled, getting the man on his back and standing up straight.

“You did this to yourself. Now carry me, big boy.”

Linebeck groaned and clumsily hopped over to where Ammon was, and Kass finally did the same, still holding his wing gingerly. Ammon raised a brow but didn’t comment on it, only moving further into the cavern. It was strange at how such a place could exist underneath the village, and Ammon couldn’t help but wonder why such a place existed. It was empty save for the flying skull, and the occasional dripping sound rang out through the cavern. Ammon turned to the rest of the men and nodded, pointing down a hallway.

“Let’s go find whatever’s causing the water to be ruined.”

[infamoussparks]

Chapter 8: Reunions & Relationships

Approx. 4700 words; 30 minute read

He recalled the conversation and found it to be strange, especially paired with Lucky giving him this paper. Benji suddenly had the realization that this could be one of Celia’s doves and he swallowed his worry that Lucky was working with Celia. Her name hadn’t come up in the conversation between Makayla and the others in the office, but this dove couldn’t simply be a coincidence, right?

“... the hell, Umbra? I told you a full blackout!”

“Fetch, I did exactly that. But you heard her! She was having a panic attack. I couldn’t just leave her like that.”

“I don’t care if she was having a baby, you need to follow instructions.”

Makayla groaned softly as the arguing voices started to come in clear within the small room. Both of the voices immediately halted and Makayla struggled to open her eyes. Once fluttered open, the bright lights within the sterile white room were grating on her nerves. She didn’t even try to move her limbs, just turned her head to the side to take in both Fetch and Benji standing over her bed.

“... Hey, losers.” Makayla smirked and then winced. Pain flared at her core. Fetch frowned unimpressed and Benji looked Makayla over before clearing his throat.

 “Makayla?” Benji spoke cautiously as though afraid to cause her more pain with his voice alone.

Makayla forced a single laugh, “I’m not gonna break.”

“She’s fine. Clearly.” Fetch rolled her eyes, shifting her weight to her opposite hip and crossing her arms over her chest. She looked absolutely pissed.

Makayla was tickled pink internally. Good. Let the neon punk be annoyed by her. She enjoyed knowing she was under Fetch’s skin. Makayla went to move her arms and realized she was cuffed to the side of the medical bed.

“You think these will hold me?”

Benji sighed, “No one is holding you here, we just have some questions for you.”

“I’m holding her here. I’ll be honest,” Fetch barked.

“Fetch.” A fourth voice cautioned. Delsin entered the already cramped space. Fetch rolled her eyes and pouted. Makayla felt herself mimic the same expression herself. Delsin turned his focus to the bed, “So… Makayla Grayson, correct?”

“Yeah, yeah, that’s me. What else did Benji tell you?”

Benji interjected, “Nothing, just your name, honest. I haven’t seen you in years.”

Makayla sighed, “Yeah, well you dropped out. So did I. College wasn’t working for me.”

Delsin glanced between the two, “You went to college together?”

“Had one class together, but we were in different years.” Benji confirmed.

“Interesting,” Delsin seemed as though that was something newsworthy. “Makayla, you’re working for Celia?”

Makayla laughed, “Not for her, just with her. I liked the promise she offered.”

“... Which is?” Delsin prodded.

“Freedom.”

“Same ol’ song and dance from Doves. Let’s lock her up and figure out next steps.” Fetch sounded impatient.

Delsin gave her that look. Oh, boy. Fetch was in trouble and Makayla loved to see it. She smiled to herself. “Fetch, meet me in the office.”

“Fine. I’m bored of babysitting anyway.” Fetch flipped Makayla off as she turned to leave the room. Makayla returned the gesture with a loud clanking of handcuffs against metal.

“Makayla, listen,” Delsin sighed and spoke a little softer, a little kinder, “We need as much information as you can give us on Celia and her plans. I don’t want to hold you here and I’ll let Benji uncuff you. But if you can help us, I’d appreciate it.”

“Why?” Makayla insisted, “Why should I help you?”

“Because we can give you freedom, too. The right way. You’d have safety here and a place to train and you clearly have friends here already. Just… think it over, yeah?”

Makayla looked from Delsin to Benji and back to the beanie-wearing man before offering a small nod. Maybe Celia’s version of freedom was a bit skewed to being more like a personal vendetta than an actual, attainable goal.

“How long do I have? To think it over?”

“A few days. Benji, here,” Delsin tossed a set of keys to Benji and he caught them easily with his left hand. “Let her free in a minute. I gotta make sure Fetch is in the office.” Then Delsin left.

Makayla was alone with Benji and while she didn’t consider them “friends” she knew Benji had vouched for her and tried to help her, even if the darkness was his fault.

“How long?” His voice pulled her from her thoughts.

“For what?”

“Since you’ve been a conduit? One of us?”

“Oh,” Makayla turned her attention to the ceiling, “Four years.”

“So, you knew while we were in school?”

“Yeah. But you can’t fault me. You never said anything about your powers, either.” Makayla snapped back. Benji looked hurt but he approached her side and started unlocking the cuffs as promised.

“We’re good here. I mean, I think you’d like it here. No one forces you to use your powers if you don’t want to. And I’ve really learned about a deeper level of control,” Benji spoke softly, a kindness mixed with his words, “Not that you don’t have control, just that… it’s an option.”

Makayla rubbed her newly freed wrists and sat up carefully, already feeling a lot better. She checked her stomach and saw only a smudge of scar tissue that was already fading.

“You didn’t have to save me back there, you know.”

“I couldn’t stop myself. You were–I was so worried about you.” Makayla could see the honesty in his eyes and for a moment they reminded her of Cassidy’s eyes. Her best friend. Her ride-or-die. Her would-be girlfriend, if the accident hadn’t happened. She pulled her attention back to her hands and blinked away the tears that seemed to suddenly be tugging at her eyes.

“I don’t know what they want from me here. At least with Celia I just do what I’m told and even then I’m pretty shitty at that, too. But here? Fetch wants me dead and Delsin doesn’t seem too keen about allowing me to stay…” Makayla took a breath and looked at Benji again, “I have no place to go if I don’t go back to Celia. And I’m not sure what will happen if I do. I failed.”

“Then just stay here. I promise they’ll come around.”

“And if they don’t? Then I’m back out on the streets. Alone.”

Benji gave her a quizzical look, “Listen to me, Mak. Pleas—“

Makayla snapped, “You don’t get to call me that! Ever! There's only one person who can call me that and it isn’t you.”

“I’m sorry. Makayla, please listen to me. I’m not your enemy here.”

“You’re not my remedy, either.”

Benji took a step back and composed himself in silence. Makayla sighed loudly, the rush of air messing up her fringe in a gust before the black and neon green strands fell back into place over her forehead.

She started again, “I’m sorry, that was… Listen, I’m just nervous. I only know you here and you can’t vouch for me forever. Plus, I dunno if you know this about me but I’m kinda on everyone’s hit list here.”

Benji laughed, the sound breaking the awkward nerves in the room, “No shit, really?”

Makayla twisted and threw her pillow at him. Benji caught it an inch from his face.

“Listen, I don’t need saving but I’ll help as much as I can. Celia is acting really weird lately and assigning what should be my missions to Orion. It’s not fair and something is up.”

“Let’s get you settled in and then I’ll tag along when you go to talk to Delsin and Fetch about everything, deal?”

“Deal.” Makayla smiled and suddenly felt relieved, like she had been holding her breath and finally surfaced. It was a weird feeling for her, but something told her she could relax here. Maybe she could even trust someone other than herself for once.

“Remember to breathe, Dr. Hutch.”

The lessons were hard but Rosaline was pushing herself anyway. For Caly, she reminded herself. For Caly.

Originally Eugene had tried running a few simulations with her using his power to project holograms, but these didn’t seem to work with Rosaline’s magnification abilities. It was hard to unlock a more mental-focused power with something that demanded a more physical approach. But after a few more tries, Eugene had an idea and phoned a friend. It took a bit for them to arrive but when they entered the training arena Rosaline instantly felt a wave of calm and encouragement from them and now they were sitting cross-legged on the floor facing one another.

“Please, call me Rosaline,” Rosaline concentrated on her breathing as instructed, “Like in yoga class… I’m finding my center.”

Her teacher reached out and touched her hand, “Stop that. This isn’t yoga. I want you to focus on connecting yourself to your power, not your center.”

Rosaline took a deep breath and pulled her long, red hair into a messy bun atop her head, which nearly matched the size of the pink bun her teacher had atop theirs. They spoke like they’d taught people how to really connect to their powers all their lives, but something creeped into the back of her mind, like that was a lie or a façade somehow. Like maybe this was just how they taught themselves. And maybe that was enough. Rosaline didn’t need to see transcripts or a list of names of successful students, she just needed to make this work. For herself. For Caly.

“Okay, Garrett. Let me try it again.”

Eugene sent an email. Another call for help. At first it bothered him to have to rely on others for help when he was a powerful conduit with connections, to boot. But it was these connections that were a boone to his power, not a fault of it. So now Eugene reached out unabashedly and continued to work while waiting on responses.

This response came at lighting speed. As expected. Childe was one with the Internet, after all.

They seemed happy to help and Eugene toasted his half-empty cup of coffee to them from his side of the computer screen.

“I just need to attack this from both sides. If we can crack this database wide open we’ll be saving a lot of conduits. I have a feeling Stratego may have additional facilities that we simply don’t know about yet.” SEND.

The reply came quickly. {I’m on it. I’ll be in touch.}

“I’ll drink a coffee for you, Childe. Thanks so much.” SEND.

{LOL! Thank you.}

With this being worked on, Eugene finally felt like he was making big strides instead of banging his head against the wall. Amazing what a small breakthrough, some powerful conduits and a few cups of coffee could accomplish.

The meeting between Makayla and the Heroes went better than Benji was expecting. Fetch had seemed annoyed at first, but as she was taking in what Makayla offered, she started asking more questions and by the end of the meeting seemed to be a little more amicable toward the toxin user. Benji was pleased.

Now, Benji was alone in his dorm which felt odd after spending so much time with Caly in here. He was sort of at a loss on what to do with the silence… video games? Art? Homework? Nah, not homework. But his eyes landed on his desk anyway and zoned into the folded paper he had left there. The one from Lucky.

He picked it up from his desk and turned it over in his hands. It was an origami dove and he wondered if maybe Lucky needed help afterall. 

“Are you okay? Do you need help?”

“I’m better now, thanks. Take care of Caly. Good luck, Benji.”

He recalled the conversation and found it to be strange, especially paired with Lucky giving him this paper. Benji suddenly had the realization that this could be one of Celia’s doves and he swallowed his worry that Lucky was working with Celia. Her name hadn’t come up in the conversation between Makayla and the others in the office, but this dove couldn’t simply be a coincidence, right?

Benji was flicking at the folds of the paper when something told him to unfold the dove and he pulled it apart carefully. Inside on the paper was the following message:

Grasp your FREEDOM, now Consider this your invite Accept your calling

“Oh,” Benji whispered to himself after reading the note, “I need Makayla to tell me where to go… I need to warn Lucky about Celia.” And he started tossing things into an old backpack. This was his hero’s calling, he could feel it in his bones.

“Benji? What are you doing here?” Lucky spun around running to Benji with a look of concern on her face. She grabbed him by the wrist and tugged him back into the shadows away from the entrance of the abandoned train yard. Benji thought she’d be happy to see him but her actions spoke louder than words.

“Are you safe? I unfolded the origami you gave me and I came as soon as I knew where to find you.”

Lucky gave him a puzzled look and moved her hand from his wrist to interlacing her fingers with his. Benji felt his cheeks warm and was thankful for the shadows for once in his life.

“Are you okay? Is Caly?”

“Yeah, Caly is fine. I’m fine,” Benji was trying to read her. Something seemed off but he couldn’t figure it out yet. It didn’t help that her hand felt warm in his and it was throwing his senses off. No one ever held his hand. This was new to him and it was really nice.

Benji shook himself to pull himself together, “Listen, Lucky. You may be in danger. That origami dove you gave me? It was one of Celia's, right?”

Lucky furrowed her brow, “Yeah, how did you kn–”

“Celia is using you for some self-important job. She’s going to hurt you once she no longer needs you,” Benji cut in, “You need to get out. Now.”

Lucky’s eyes searched his face. Benji wasn’t sure if she was finding what she needed or not. He just hoped she believed him.

“It may be too late for that. But you shouldn’t be here. If she sees you here…” Lucky’s voice drifted off and she quickly glanced over her shoulder as if she heard something he missed. “Good luck, Benji. You need to leave.”

Benji felt a rush of… something. Like a splash of water in his face. It was a strange sensation and he realized he had felt this once before with Lucky. She went to drop his hand and he grabbed her hand back quickly, holding it between both of his hands now. He was searching her face now and she looked slightly terrified.

“I’m not leaving you here. Come back with me,” His voice was a hushed whisper. He was begging her.

Lucky seemed to hesitate for a moment. It gave Benji a surge of hope. But then she glanced at their hands and she gently pulled hers away again, “I wish I could. I have to stay. For now.”

“Is she hurting you?”

Lucky seemed caught off guard by that assumption, “What? No. I mean, I can leave soon. I’ll find you again, I promise.”

Benji shook his head. He was not accepting this weird flow of words from Lucky. Something was clearly wrong and he decided to stay. What did Fetch tell him? Sometimes you gotta trust your instincts and choose the lesser evil. Let’s hope she wasn’t wrong.

“I’m staying with you, then. I want to see what Celia has planned for myself.”

“Benji I don’t think that’s a good idea…” Lucky started but noticed Benji seemed to have made up his mind. She sighed, “Keep your power hidden but ready. Something is changing and I’m getting nervous.”

Benji nodded as Lucky took his hand again and led him into the tunnel that held their small cohort of a team and Celia’s hidden base for Operation Freedom.

The knocking was loud. Then louder still.

“C’mon, Benji! Open up! I know you’re skipping class,” Fetch’s voice was muffled beyond the dorm door. “I’m letting myself in on the count of three.”

Fetch counted as she found the key she needed and then she unlocked the door to Benji’s room. She was hoping the conduit was just asleep since he was now off babysitting duty and had just used a massive amount of power at her behest. So, when Fetch opened the door and found the room all but empty, she was very, very confused.

And then she noticed something on Benji’s empty desk. A piece of paper that had familiar folded lines which had been smoothed out.

Fetch entered the room and picked up the paper, reading the message inside before fisting it with anger that all but set her neon ablaze. She left his dorm room, closing the door behind her but leaving it unlocked and headed not back to the office, but to another dorm down an opposite hall.

Another loud knocking on a closed door but this one was quickly answered.

“Yeah, yeah, what do you wa–oh, Fetch.” Makayla raised a single eyebrow while standing in her doorway.

“We have a problem that I think you can help with,” Fetch held up the scrunched paper in her fist and Makayla looked from it to Fetch’s face before nodding quietly. “Meet me in the office, now.”

Delsin and Eugene were already in the office planning lessons for the upcoming semester when Fetch crashed that party with Makayla in tow. She stormed to the desk and slapped the paper down on the wood.

“We have a big problem. Benji is gone.”

“Gone?” Delsin read the paper and then looked to Fetch and passed the paper to Eugene to read over as well.

Makayla sat carefully on the armrest of the couch, as though she may need to bolt from the room at a second’s notice, “He’s with Celia. I know where her base is.”

“We are not going to her base. It would be like walking into a trap,” Delsin strategized.

“Smart. I see why people call you the ‘Hero of Seattle’,” Makayla seemed to relax a bit on her perch.

Delsin nodded and then leaned into her bubble, “That’s why you’re going instead.”

Sweat beaded along her forehead as Lucky pushed her abilities and dodged an attack aimed at her head. She had been standing still with her eyes closed, tapping into her luck and relying upon it to guide her actions. It wasn’t a perfect dance, not yet anyway. But Lucky was determined to fine-tune this new skill.

“Too slow!” Her brother’s voice shouted from someplace in front of her, a noise like a razor upon glass alerted her to a new barrage of his mirror shards flying her way. Lucky dove left but as predicted, she was a second too slow and one shard sliced into her calf.

Lucky cursed under her breath, rolling until she sat up and could check the damage. It wasn’t a deep cut but she still frowned at being cut at all.

Orion approached her and stood over her, hands resting on his hips. “I told you to just fight me normally. This whole pushing your luck is going nowhere.”

“Stop being such an ass about this, Orion. I really want to try this. I think I can make it work somehow,” Lucky reached up to him and Orion grabbed her wrist to pull her to her feet while rolling his eyes.

The pain was sharp and sudden. Lucky gasped and glanced down seeing a shard driven up and under her ribcage. She blanched and stumbled forward into Orion’s arms. He held her gently, whispering into her ear.

“You trust too easily, sister. You need to build your pain tolerance before you try new tricks.”

“... Orion… Why?” She inhaled and held her breath, her fingers finding the shard before she wrapped her hand around it and yanked it from her skin. The pain caused tears to escape from the corners of her eyes and she pressed her bloodied palm to the wound as the shard fell to the grass at her feet.

Orion pushed her away from his embrace and ran his index finger under her chin, tilting her head up to meet his gaze. “Anger looks good on you, Lucky. Ready to fight me now?”

Lucky narrowed her eyes, forcing celestial light into her hands. The one over her wound flared with pain as she focused on cauterizing the wound with the heat. She flicked her free hand upward to latch around Orion’s wrist, the burn registering as pain flashed across his features. Lucky smirked internally knowing she had bested her brother for a moment.

Orion yanked his arm from her grasp and immediately summoned more mirror shards to his aid with a flash of golden crescents flickering in his eyes. The shards flew like arrows loosed from an invisible bow and Lucky dodged them all gracefully.

While Orion pulled more shards from thin air, Lucky forced celestial light in his direction. It flew like a thrown sparkler, sparks flying and her aim true. As it reached close enough to Orion, Lucky clapped her hands together and the sparks of light exploded in his face. She was quickly disappointed as the smoke cleared and her brother appeared from behind a mirror shield he crafted to protect his face.

Lucky scowled but then she was hit with sudden dizziness and her steps faltered. A glance down told her the stab wound was still bleeding and that this mini skirmish needed to quit while it was just between the siblings.

Benji caught her in his arms before she hit the ground.

“Lucky!” He was looking her over quickly and then his eyes started fading into this blue-gray color and Lucky reached up one hand and cradled his cheek. Her touch canceled his call to his power and he looked back down at her.

“I’m fine. Don’t hurt him.”

“But he hurt you.”

“And I’ll do it again if she wimps out with our next sparring session,” Orion cut in standing before them both. His arm was sporting a burn mark in the shape of her hand and his face looked marked by small dots of burns. So she had hurt him with her attack. Lucky smiled to herself. “I’m leaving. Let Celia know I’ll be back tomorrow.”

“What? Where are you going?” Benji shouted after him as Orion turned and started walking toward the city.

“To the bar. I’m hunting for trouble.”

“I hope it eats you alive, brother,” Lucky called after him and then she moved to sit in the grass, leaning back against her hands to relieve some pressure from her wound. Orion scoffed and waved but never looked back.

Benji dropped to sit next to Lucky, his eyes still darting from her face to her wound. He looked concerned for her and she gave him a soft smile.

“I’ll be fine, I promise.”

“You aren’t healing?”

“Oh… Yeah. About that,” She shifted a bit and winced just a smidge, “My power is luck-based and that’s pretty rare to drain. So healing is a slower process for me. I will heal, it just takes a little longer than most other conduits.”

Benji frowned a little at that but then sighed softly, “What can I do to help?”

Lucky gave him her full attention and for a moment said nothing at all. No one had ever offered to help her before. No one had ever seemed to care. She searched Benji’s eyes but only found genuine kindness. Her heart fluttered for a moment in her chest.

“Stay with me?” He’ll get hurt if he stays, Lucky thought to herself, But he isn’t going to want to leave you, not like this.

Benji just nodded and scooted closer to her on the grass, “Yeah, sure. I’m here, Lucky.”

“Thanks, Benji.”

The bar was a loud, public place with a thin haze from cigarettes and cigars lingering in the air. By the time Orion pushed through the doorway and approached the bar his face was fully healed and the mark on his arm had faded to a shadow of color. He asked for something strong and smooth and let the bartender work their human magic on a drink that met his requirements. He took a long sip from it before taking a moment to look around him and start to narrow in on a target.

A lot of people were keeping to themselves at the bar, or enjoying the company of friends at the few tables scattered throughout. A few people seemed to be running on liquid courage, while alone with a potential partner for the evening. But as Orion took another long sip from his glass, ruckus laughter pulled his focus and he narrowed his eyes at a man with a slight build and blonde, spiky hair. The man was not alone and he demanded an audience. Orion felt his pulse rise with the thought of stealing that attention for himself.

“... tell us about your new boyfriend, Luca…”

Orion smirked and finished his drink, slamming the glass on the bar before leaving his spot and heading for the blonde, a single, overheard name whispered under his breath, “Luca.”

The goal was simple: Push. If this guy was a conduit, push harder. Orion was looking for a fight and starting one in this crowded bar would be easy for him. A necessary release of anger, energy and power. He wanted to feel something tonight and either Orion would get his ass handed to him, or he’d get what he wanted–it was simply up to the tipsy, laughing blonde that was in his sights.

The night would be a smashing success either way.

“What do you mean?” Benji asked Lucky curiously. The two had been up all night talking and the sunlight was beginning to creep into the space they were sharing within the abandoned train yard building. It had been easy to talk with Lucky about anything and Lucky seemed to enjoy his company, so he stayed. Benji was also sticking by in case her unpredictable brother came in and decided round two of fight club would start before Lucky was fully healed.

“I mean, I think something is going on between Celia and my brother. Orion has been really combative with me for a few days now and just the other day Celia gave him a ‘secret mission’.” Lucky put the words in air quotes, “I’m starting to suspect Celia has it out for me somehow.”

“You should come back with me. I’ll protect you,” Benji took Lucky’s hands in his own, “I mean, the warehouse will take you in. We have Makayla healing there now.”

Lucky gave him a quizzical look, her brows furrowed in a way that read as her trying to understand what he had just told her. “Makayla is staying at the warehouse?”

“Yeah,” Benji confirmed, “At least, I hope so. She seemed like she was done with Celia’s bullshit and now hearing a similar story from you… I think you may be in trouble if you stay here.”

Lucky held his gaze and Benji felt a strange pull toward her. The way the sunlight was playing off her light skin and catching on her dark eyelashes… He shook his head slightly to shake off whatever was washing over him at the moment.

“Okay.” Lucky gave him a curt nod.

“Okay?”

“Okay, I’ll meet you there. As soon as I know my brother is back here safely, I’ll sneak out and find you.”

Benji tilted his head slightly and gave her a slight frown, “Why are you protecting him?”

“I’m not,” Lucky quickly answered, “I’m protecting you. You need time to get back to the warehouse and let them know that something big is coming and it’s going to get bad. If I’m right, Celia is priming Orion to fight by her side and knowing him as well as I do, well, he’s not going to stop until he gets what he wants out of this.”

“What does he want?”

“Control and power.” Lucky answered. “All of it.”

[townsenddecades]

1304 - Day 1

As her pregnancy is nearing its end, Anne reflects a little sadly at how much happier and freer she feels with this baby than with her last. She loves Robbie with all her heart, but looking at him will always be a reminder of the heartache his parentage has caused her family, even if by now, her warm-hearted husband has found it in himself to both forgive her and accept Robbie as his own.

Still, they are both very much looking forward to their new arrival.

Their joy doesn’t make the birth any less painful when their third son comes into the world one January morning. They call the little boy Simon. His fuzz of hair is sparse, but Anne can already tell he will be a redhead like the twins and Benji, putting his parentage beyond any doubt.

Benedict, of course, is overjoyed both that his wife is alright and to meet the baby.

“He’s beautiful”, he tells her, as he is cradling the tiny boy in his arms. “I’ll never get over how beautiful the children we make are.”

“We make?”, she quips, while resting on her bed. She’s slept, but her body is still sore and utterly exhausted. In the three years since Robbie’s birth, she had nearly fooled herself into forgetting how terrible childbirth is. “As far as I can recall, I’ve been the one making the babies.”

“I’ve helped,” Benedict jokes, then peers at their son again. “Although I wonder about this one. Don’t worry, I don’t doubt he’s my son, but…his eyes look kind of purple, don’t they?”

“I’m sure that will change when he grows.”

But she has to admit, it is odd.

While their parents take care of their little brothers, Anna, Edith and Benjamin spend much time bonding together in town, and although Benjamin is far more serious than them and often even rolls his eyes at Anna’s jokes, he can get quite lively when they tease him out of his shell!

Being in the village every day to get water and the odd supply from the market has other perks, as well. Namely, gossip and genuine news. The local shopkeeper tells them that the Earl’s men have been to the village recently to gather supplies for a voyage on the river the Earl is planning to make. It isn’t without risk, traveling by ship in this icy weather and constant mist, but the children can only speculate how much fun travelling by boat must be, especially across the sea.

When the family is all together at the farm, they mostly spend time indoors, and Anna and Edith often play on a table full of building blocks their father has made for them. They mostly do it when their little brothers want to play, but sometimes, it’s fun even if it’s just the two of them, especially if it passes the time.

Despite the icy weather, Anne sometimes goes to sit outside and enjoy the peace of the frozen countryside, gilded by the evening light. She wishes she was able to paint, sometimes, just to be able to preserve such moments.

WATCHER'S NEWS:

The Countess of Petersmarch has, in the absence of her husband, given birth to a healthy daughter, and named her Lady Gwendolen Dudley.

Prev: 1303, Day 4 <--> Next: 1304, Day 2

[joes-sha-la-la-la-girl]

Love Bites: Chapter 12

Series Masterlist

Warnings: Smut

Tammy’s sister had managed to get all of Y/N’s stuff out and moved it into Tammy's place. Apparently, whilst she had been sorting everything out, Doug had come home but by that point it was too late, Tammy’s sister only had a couple of items left to get and they were all replaceable. Y/N had told her on the phone not to worry about what she couldn’t get, the singer was just grateful that she wouldn’t have to see Doug again. 

However, Y/N now didn’t feel safe going to Tammy’s after the tour was over. As Doug had seen Tammy’s sister moving the stuff out, Y/N knew that he would know where she was. She tried not to let any of that bother her though because now her and Joe could be as open as they wanted to be. 

The tour progressed without any problems for the next week. Both singers were happy that they could finally be out in the open without any worries of being caught.

They had a week off and both bands were booked into a hotel. Joe insisted that he and Y/N share, earning no protest from the Ultraviolet singer, or Sav for that matter, who usually shared a room with Joe and didn’t want to be shut out for hours at a time.

As it was their week off, Joe decided to take Y/N out for a date. The only problem was that he was not familiar with the area and had no idea where he wanted to take her. 

“Why don’t you just go on a walk with her?” Sav suggested when his best friend came to him for advice.

“Just a walk?”

“Well, she’ll probably appreciate something calm after being on tour with us for so long. And it’ll give you the chance to get to know her better.”

“I suppose that could work.”

“You also could find out what sort of stuff she does like for when you plan your next date.” Sav pointed out.

“Okay. A walk then.” Joe still didn’t sound convinced.

“Or don’t if you’re not interested.” Sav shrugged.

“You’re right though.”

“I always am.”

“Funny. I meant that it would be good so I can set up our next date. With that Joe left the room, going back to his and Y/N’s so that they could get ready to go.

*

“This is really nice Joe.” Y/N smiled as they walked around. 

“It was Sav’s idea really.” Joe told her, slightly bashful, that he almost turned the idea down.

“Well either way, I’m having a nice time. I don’t like to go too overboard with dates y’know.” She said, unknowingly giving Joe some ideas for their second date. He now knew that she didn’t like to make a fuss. Y/N had also told him what foods she did and didn’t like after Joe had tried and failed to subtly ask her.

“So how come you moved to London?” Joe asked as a short silence fell over them.

“For music I guess. Tammy and I grew up together and always had a passion for music. We used to put on shows for our families. Anyway, we both decided that we wanted to move to London to start a band and our parents didn’t think it would work.

“I met Doug about a week or so after we moved and started dating him. He was charming then mind you. We met Benji in the pub and then Johnny joined after Benji introduced us.”

“Wow. I’m sorry your parents weren’t more supportive.” Joe told her. Y/N just shrugged with a small smile on her face. 

“Worked out though.”

“I don’t know what I would have done if not for my parents. Def Leppard wouldn’t be about, that's for sure.” Joe grinned softly.

The two of them wandered around for a while longer, just talking about their bands and getting to know each other better.

*

When they got back to the hotel, they walked up to their room and stood outside the door.

“I think I am supposed to just drop you off with the promise of another date, but since this is my room too, may I come in?” Joe asked cheekily.

Y/N laughed and leaned up to kiss him gently. “Of course.”

Joe led Y/N into their room, not breaking the kiss. He ran his hands down her sides after he kicked the door shut.

“Jump.” He murmured against her lips before he helped her wrap her legs around his waist. Joe walked, with Y/N clung onto him, to their bed and carefully laid her down. He slipped the dress she was wearing off and was pleasantly surprised when he saw that she was not wearing a bra.

“Oh love, you’re so beautiful.”

Y/N blushed at the compliment and turned her head away from him.

“Don’t hide from me sweetheart.” Joe moved his hands to her face and made her look at him. He smiled at her before recapturing her lips in another passionate kiss. He then trailed his lips down to her neck, quickly finding the spot that made her moan.

When she let out the little whimper he was hoping for, he sucked gently. Y/N pulled away slightly, only to pull his t-shirt off of his head and move her hands down to his belt. Joe quickly helped her, wriggled out of his trousers and underwear before he then took off hers.

Y/N bucked her hips up as she felt his fingers ghost over her.

“Can I ride you?” She asked him in a tone he couldn’t refuse. Joe didn’t say anything as he allowed himself to be flipped over. Y/N reached over and grabbed a condom that was conveniently left on the bedside table. She opened it, discarding the rubbish on the floor and rolled it down onto Joe.

He couldn’t think of anything as Y/N started to grind on him, causing him to let out a groan. “Please love.” Joe begged, earning a smirk in return.

Y/N reached down and grabbed his cock, lining it up and then sinking down on him. Joe gripped her hips so hard that he left white finger marks, however, Y/N couldn’t care less about the future bruises as she adjusted to him inside of her.

Soon enough she started rocking, using Joe’s chest as leverage. One of Joe’s hands left her waist and went to her breast, squeezing it gently and rubbing his thumb over her nipple. 

The attention Jow paid to her breast caused Y/N to go faster. When she started bouncing, Joe let out a gasp and bucked his hips up in shock, going deeper than before. The two of them kept up that pace before Joe had enough and flipped them back around.

It was Y/N’s turn to gasp as she felt Joe start to pound into her. Putting her hands on his back, she dug her nails in, leaving red scratch marks in the process. Joe groaned again at the painful pleasure and leant down to kiss her again. 

The two of them moved in unison, absolutely lost in one another as they chased their highs. Joe could feel Y/N clenching and it brought him closer to the edge. Wanting to make sure she came first, Joe moved his hand down to thumb at her clit.

“C’mon sweetheart. Let go.” He encouraged, not sure how much longer he could last. With a loud curse, Y/N came, triggering his own orgasm. She captured Joe’s lips as he finished and the two of them collapsed together on the bed. 

“Good girl.” Joe cooed as he finally pulled out of her, hoping to sooth her whimper. Joe quickly moved to get the two of them cleaned up before he moved back to where she was lying. 

He climbed in bed with her and with one last peck the two of them drifted off to sleep, cuddled up.

Taglist:

@genxrocker

@elliotts-personal-property

@friccinfricks

@i-love-def-leppard

@vintagerocknrollgirl

[axolotlsupremacyowo]

Find the Word...Love Edition!

Hi besties! Now we're back with find the word...except, this time, it has a theme! And the theme is, love! All kinds of love! Familial, romantic, platonic, you name it! It's all about love, baby!

And to spread this love...lemme tag my bestiest of besties! Those being @sliebman10 @tsunderesalty @mrsmungus @oceangirl24 @narcissasdaffodil @udaberriwrites @hylianjo @sergeantneko @fattybattysblog @mikaharuka @bees-and-sunshine @kayedium-writes and of course, open tag! Seriously, if you wanna join, join right in!

Words for me to find

Passion, Affection, Dear, Cherish, Romance

Words for you to find!

Darling, Friendship, Fond, Tender, Relationship

All of these snippets came from newer fics...so count this as some weird ass self promo XD. But seriously, now let's go on to the snippets!

Passion (Golden Hour)

The two laughed together, another small moment in a memento of small moments that they were together. It all made sense, why Klavier had fallen for him. Especially when Apollo was laughing in that adorable way he always did, in the rare moments that he found Klavier’s jokes funny. When Apollo was done laughing, he said. “Well, I hope this at least helped with the stress you’ve been feeling, even a little.” “It did, Herr Forehead. Don’t worry.” Klavier said. Then, he got an idea. Now that he knew that he was in love with Apollo…why not tease him? “You know what else would help my stress?” Apollo skeptically eyed Klavier. “…What?” Klavier grinned. “A kiss.” “Prosecutor Gavin…” “I’m serious, Herr Forehead! But you probably don’t have the balls to-” Apollo grabbed hold of Klavier’s collar and kissed him. Klavier was surprised at first, but then, he melted into the kiss. Despite the initial aggression of Apollo grabbing his collar, the kiss was gentle. It wasn’t the passionate kisses that Klavier was used to, but he liked it all the same. In fact, he liked it better, how the two embraced each other, the love that emanated from Apollo as they kissed. The two separated, and Klavier found that he was still in awe.

Affection (Benji, Darling)

Miles scoffed. “I know what I’m doing, Wright.” Phoenix raised a brow. “Oh, really?” “Yes, Wright. I am quite good at talking to people.” Klavier, Ema, and Apollo all burst laughing. “…You know, they’re laughing for a reason.” Phoenix said with a smirk. Miles grumbled to himself. “Don’t worry, I’ll be there to help you. We can do this, alright?” Miles nodded. “Let’s do this.” “Alright.” Phoenix said, and then, he went back to his Ryuichi persona. “C’mon now, Benji! Let’s go get you some wine.” He playfully laughed, touching Miles’ arm affectionately. “Darling.”

Dear (Reunion)

“Dear Maya Fey,” That was how Franziska started every letter that she wrote to Maya Fey, reading through the old letters that she had written to her over the years. This one was the latest letter, a letter she had written after coming back to Los Angeles two years again. Just for the possibility of seeing Maya again, just to see her blue eyes and hear her laughter. But she wasn’t brave enough. Not brave enough to face Maya Fey again, to take on the risk of Maya hating her guts. Franziska wasn’t perfect, was far from perfect actually, even if she was a von Karma. And no doubt that Maya had heard about Mia’s trial with her. They were sisters, after all. She should hate her, she should. There was a small chance though, a chance that Maya missed her just as much.

Cherish (Throughout the Seasons)

At some point, they had decided to sit down on a park bench. The air was brisk, leaves dancing through the air as the fluttered down into the ground. Ema held her emergency bag of snackoos as she talked to Maya about some interesting forensics thing she came across in a recent case of hers. Maya listened intently, and of course made jokes and contributed to the conversation. Their conversations together were always things that Ema cherished, still laughing at Maya’s particularly jokes hours later. And this conversation, as Maya giggled and Ema snorted out a laugh, were just a reminder why. Then, Maya yawned. “Man, that coffee is making me sleepy.” “…Doesn’t coffee usually energize people?” Ema asked. “It does usually, but I'm different I guess. I don’t know why it makes me sleepy.” Maya said with a shrug. “Huh. There must be a psychological explanation for that. I dunno what it is, though.” “Aren’t you a scientist, Ema?” “I studied forensics, not psychology.” Ema replied. “And here I thought you were a science nerd.” Maya said Ema rolled her eyes. “Oh, shut up.”

Romance (A Warm Welcome Home)

Phoenix placed down the letter and looked at the rest of the table. When Phoenix looked closely, the packages of food on the table were just some of his favorites, and he was sure that just as Miles had said, there was more food in the fridge for him, just like the letter had said. What caught Phoenix’s eyes the most were his favorite chips, cheese flavored Piattos. They didn’t even sell Piattos at their local grocery store, so Miles no doubt had to go all the way to the Asian grocery store…just to buy Phoenix’s favorite chips. He picked up the chips bag, sitting down on the chair as he tore the bag open. That familiar smell of cheese made his mouth water, especially after such a long flight. Eating the chips, Phoenix sighed in content, the nostalgic taste of the chips reminding him so dearly of the Philippines hitting his tastebuds. Just eating the chips, he was reminded of his life with his family, when he and his parents would eat chips as they watched old timey Filipino romance movies. When they would visit the Philippines for Christmas and Phoenix got to eat the snacks from his tita’s tindahan. Of his family.

That's it! I hope you enjoyed these snippets!

[gorgon-goddess-of-chaos]

Snuddles

This includes my own interpretations of gorgons for my own creative endeavors, so nobody’s being turned to stone here. Just one giant cuddly snake.

Gorgon!Actor Mark x GN!Reader, TW: snakes Words: 661

You’d think with Mark being a common predator of humans that a relationship with him would be difficult. This luckily is not the case. Benjamin commonly comes in to check on the two of you, although most of it is simply to bring refreshments and remind Mark of appointments. Part of you wonders how Benjamin has managed to stay alive for this long in service to a gorgon, but you can’t help but notice a certain softness that Mark only has for the two of you. All other humans, he couldn’t care less about.

You’re having a particularly bad day, having been shrimped in your chair for far too long and having hurt your back. You have laid yourself out on Mark’s fainting couch, a heating pad on your back and an ice pack over your eyes. The door opens quietly, a soft click before the telltale rumbling of Mark slithering into the room. With the amount of pain you’re in, you don’t quite care to uncover your eyes to look at him.

“Darling, I can’t help but notice you’re on my couch for being dramatic and complaining, and you are doing neither of those things.”

“I am in pain, Mark. I didn’t realize I needed to be in pain loudly to be allowed to lay on this couch.”

You chuckle, peeking out from under the ice pack, expecting him to just look exasperated with you. What you weren’t expecting, was Mark to immediately start fussing over you.

“You’re in pain!? How on earth did you manage that? Do I need to hire someone to protect you? I can’t have you getting hurt on my property. I must amend this slight against you-“

Mark holds your cheeks, squishing your face and knocking the ice pack off your eyes, checking your face for any injuries.

“Oh good, your best features are unharmed. I had been worried that the ice pack implied you had gotten a black eye or something.”

“Mark, I just sat improperly too long at the computer and now my back hurts and I have a headache. It’ll go away by tomorrow.”

“Well if it’s as simple as that, I can fix that for you, darling.”

You are lifted up into Mark’s arms, moving onto his couch as he gets you settled onto his coils. His torso hovers above you, getting you adjusted and comfortable with a kiss to your forehead. Mark starts rolling his coils beneath you, digging into your sore back like a deep tissue massage. He has to hold down your shoulders for a moment as you get used to it, smiling as you relax.

“Alright, that’s one problem solved. Now for the second. Hold still now, my dear snakelet.”

His hands root in your hair on either side of your head, rubbing at your temples with his thumbs while his other claws give soothing scratches against your scalp. Mark’s snakes on top of his head lean down, littering your cheeks with small kisses and boops to your nose.

“There’s my sweet darling, I won’t have you going and suffering in pain if I can do anything about it.”

“You’re too sweet for me, Mark. My snuggly snoodle.”

Mark only chuckles, resting his torso against yours, pleased when you wrap your arms around his shoulders. Benjamin comes in with a brief knock, a little surprised at the sight in front of him.

“Anything I can assist either of you with?”

“No thank you, Benjamin. Unless my love has any objections?”

“None here. Thank you, Benji.”

“My pleasure. Let me know if that changes.”

He leaves the two of you alone again, letting Mark curl up with you properly and purr on top of you. Something tells you that he may be doing this more for himself than for you, but you also know the man needs no excuse to cuddle with you. One thing is for sure, and that is he’ll never admit to wanting it first.