#drew this as a gift for my friend so she could get it signed by neil newbon himself

[boyyeahright]

you belong in the sun

[feralthoughtdump]

Let Me Wrap My Teeth Around The World

Warnings: minors DNI, small age gap (everyone is 18+),  manipulation, love-bombing, possessiveness, social anxiety, the male gaze, financial exploitation, obsessive behavior, ownership, toxic dynamics, moral corruption, smut, virginity loss, coercion, dubcon, dark

Word Count: 4.1K

It’s been a while since Coriolanus found someone as the object of his affection. The last time was a few years ago, and it did no good for him. But this shy, sweet, beautiful Capitol girl was someone who could pose no risk to him and seemed to have wormed her way into the recesses of his mind. 

She was the shy girl in one of his University classes. Rumors circulated about her wealth or lack thereof. She was some prodigy who earned her way into the school through merit rather than money, and it left an open inquiry as to who her parents were. He didn’t know what drew him in. The House of Snow had just regained a semblance of wealth and power, and associating with a girl like her could easily create cracks in the foundation.

She wasn’t wealthy enough to come from a district family who bought their way in, but she certainly wasn’t like the other students who took classes with her. Though she wasn’t wealthy, she wasn’t necessarily poor, at least not as poor as his family used to be, but he could recognize the signs of the consistent repair in her uniform, using the same stitches Tigris would use on his old clothing. It turns out she had come from a family of seamstresses and artists. 

He also learned that she loved pretty things, not just spotting them but making them. Her apartment was always decorated with little knick-knacks and drawings that covered the walls. Coriolanus would be lying if he said he didn’t enjoy spending time in her dingy apartment. It was small, run-down, nothing more than a studio with a bed, desk, kitchenette, and a heat pipe that screeches and clangs at the most ungodly hour. But he loves staring at how her brows furrow as she sketches or how she tucks her lower lip between her teeth in frustration. Despite being unable to help her work, she was always happy to have him around. 

This leads him to her small apartment at least once a month with a new pair of pants that were a bit too long or one of his father’s old shirts 

Even though he could afford to have his pants hemmed by a tailor or simply ask Tigris, he prefers going to her. After all, she’s become familiar with his preferred inseam length, and Tigris has become colder and colder towards him. 

He always insists on paying her even if she refuses. 

“We’re friends, Corio,” She said the first time. “You don’t have to pay me.” 

“Just this once, let me take care of you.” He insisted, pressing the cash into the palm of her hand. 

Just this once turned into every single time. Then, it became buying her meals and small gifts. He got her internships with other high-ranking game makers. Eventually, he convinced her that her old apartment was too small and worn down for a nice girl like her, and he moved her into a spare room in his apartment and turned the other into a studio. Then, he started taking her to parties and events she could never afford to go to, and he always made sure to buy her a dress even if she insisted that it would cost less if she could just make one herself. 

When their fellow students would snicker at her, he’d slip poison into their drinks. Never enough to kill them, just to get them sick for a week or so.

Somehow, Coriolanus finds himself taking her under his wing, becoming a mentor to her in some type of way.  She maintained that soft and sweet air about her, but with his help, she became someone her peers respected. Once, she was the girl who made other students in the University roll their eyes because she always tried too hard. Now, she was the girl who had connections and handed in exemplary work. She was the carefully created success story of a middle-class Capitol girl who climbed the ladder with hard work and determination. Now, she could spread her wings and fly, but only as far as he would allow.

With the arrival of winter comes the start of planning another year of games, and the Crane family was more than happy to host a commencement gala. 

This time, he bought her a pretty red dress she eyed in a store window a few days ago. 

The quiet gasp she lets out when he opens the box is music to his ears. 

“It’s even more beautiful in person.” She whispers the fabric pooling in her hands like blood. “I can’t let you keep buying me things like this. I can’t take this.” 

He fights the urge to roll his eyes. She always opposes, with her voice becoming soft, objections and promises to pay him back, tumbling from her lips. But that wasn’t what he cared about. He cared about how she presented herself. He got her internships and dragged her out of that shoebox of a studio apartment. She was a product of his hard work, and he wanted to show it off. “Think of it as a gift.” He smiles, gently lifting her chin to meet his eyes. “You’ve worked hard these past few months.” 

“Corio…” 

“Put it on; we have to leave in a few minutes.” 

… 

She’s stuck to his side whenever they attend these events. Her shy demeanor doesn’t do well in large crowds, and with an endless supply of expensive liquor, Coriolanus doesn’t want her wandering about alone. 

Throughout the evening, she’s been good. Smiling, looking pretty. Saying hello to the people he introduces her to, holding onto his arm, and letting him know when she’s feeling overwhelmed so he can rub circles on her back. 

People compliment her, telling her how beautiful she looks. Pride thumps against his chest. Of course, she looks beautiful. The dress he picked falls on her body like it was made for her. The red is beautiful against her skin, and the fabric drapes beautifully around her hips, showing off her elegant back. 

Eventually, she breaks away from him, needing to use the restroom. But after a while, he realizes something isn't right without her beside him. 

He worries when he can’t see her, and he finds himself rushing through small conversations and pushing past people to try and find her in a sea of people. 

Eventually, he spots her staring at the city's vast expanse, leaning on the balcony's edge. She’s slowly nursing her third glass of champagne in one hand, and the other picks at the cuticles of her thumb. 

That wasn’t a good sign.

“What’s wrong?” He inquires, approaching her with a hand on her back. 

She jumps at his touch, but relief crosses her face when she sees him. The last of the champagne is quickly swallowed, and she passes the empty glass to an approaching waiter. 

“Nothing, really. I’m okay.” 

From the tension in her forehead, he can clearly tell that she isn’t okay. Though he knows she hates it when he pries, he still chooses to do so.

“You aren’t, so tell me what’s wrong.”

There’s a beat of silence, and she sighs. 

“I feel out of place, Corio. I feel like I don’t belong here.”

“What do you mean? Of course, you belong here.”

“Everyone here is just so…” She looks down at her heels, trying to find the right words “I don’t know, I’m younger than everyone, and most of the people here have played a part in the games and all I’ve done is get coffee and print papers for them.” 

Her lashes flutter as if blinking away tears, and he can’t have that. Not here. 

“Hey,” he lifts her chin with his fingers and strokes her flushed cheek with his thumb. “Don’t get all tearful on me. You’re with me. I promise you, you belong here.”

From the frown curling on her lips, his words clearly aren’t working, so he shifts the conversation. “What do you dream of being? What do you want to do?” 

She opens her mouth but hesitates. 

“Promise you won’t think it’s stupid?”

“I promise.”

“I’d like to be a designer.” A small smile starts to cross her face. “A fashion designer with my own line and everything.” 

He could see a future where everyone in the Capitol wore her designs. Or not everyone. She was too good for that. All of his hard work has been put into helping her rise alongside him. If she wanted to do something, she had to be the best. 

“I think you would make a great designer.” Without a second thought, he presses a small kiss to her forehead. “I know you will. I’ve seen your work.”

A giggle falls from her lips, and affection blooms in his chest. Nowadays, he wonders if he could ever love someone. But love is so subjective. He had molded her into someone who would be fit to stand by him as he rose in the ranks. Isn’t that the closest thing there is to love? 

… 

“Here, let me help you.” 

The champagne has loosened her up, causing her to stumble on her feet. She leans against him and laughs when his arm hooks under her knees to carry her past the front door. 

“Such a gentleman.” She croons. “Always taking care of me.”

“It’s what I do best.” 

He sets her down on the edge of his bed so he can bend down to undo her heels. Without much thinking, he gently kisses the inside of her ankle. His eyes gaze up at her, gauging her reaction, and she shyly tells him, “I really want to kiss you right now.”

It’s as if something in him shifts. Coriolanus always harbored an attraction to her. On multiple occasions, he would fuck his fist after their little “tailoring” appointments, thinking about her on her knees, his cock stuffed in her mouth. Ever since she moved in, he’d sneak glances through the crack of her door, catching glimpses of her in stages of undress. He’s never acted upon it. His ego certainly wouldn’t be able to take the rejection, but now that she’s asking him to kiss her with those soft lips and glittering doe eyes, he’s safe to act on his desires. 

He surges forward, engulfing her in his hold. Hands cupping her face to keep her lips pressed against his. His teeth graze across her bottom lip, 

She smells like vanilla and roses, igniting that deep-seated hunger inside him. 

He has always hungered for power within the political spheres of Panem, but right now, his hunger is hyperfocused on her. To own her, to control her. 

He wants her to answer every beck and call. If he were to say jump, she would ask, ‘How high?’ If he asked her to crawl to him, she’d drag her delicate knees across whatever surface she stood on. He wants her to belong to him—mind, body, and soul. 

Their lips are locked together as her hands fumble to remove her dress. Sensing her struggle, he releases her face to help, undoing the ties around her neck. She carefully lets it fall off her body, letting the vibrant red silk pool around her feet. 

“I’ve never done this before.” She murmurs against his lips. “I haven’t done anything past kissing.” 

“Really?” He looks down at her and wants to coo in adoration when she shyly glances away. “No one’s ever touched you before?”

“Just… myself… and this one boy from the academy a few years ago but it was over our uniforms.” She hesitates, and he can feel his cock twitch in his pants. Coriolanus already owned most of her clothing, living space, and future career. It was all owed to him. But her virginity? He can truly make her his. His girl. 

He crawls on top of her, caging her in his arms. 

“I’ll be gentle. I promise.” 

His fingers trace her skin, from the line of her neck past her collarbones, dipping under the white lace underwear that clings to her hips. 

“These are pretty.” He flicks the rosette sewn to the center of the waistband. “Did you wear these for me?” 

“Maybe. I made them myself.” 

She lifts her hips, allowing him to slide them down her legs. They part, creating room for him to slot himself in between her knees. Her hands reach to remove his shirt, but he bats them away. 

“Just relax. I’ll take care of you.” 

As he unbuttons his shirt, he observes the way her chest rises and falls, how her lips are parted, and how her tongue darts out to lick at her lips in anticipation. 

His fingers push past her lips, pressing down on her eager tongue, already swirling over them. 

“Get them wet. I don’t want to hurt you.” 

Her eyes close as she sucks on the digits. Saliva pools in her mouth, dripping past the corners of her lips. 

They are released with a pop, and Coriolanus groans, the strain in his pants becoming unbearable. 

Two of his wet fingers slide between her folds, teasing at her opening. A gasp slips past her parted lips at the feeling of his fingers pushing in. It was torturous how he managed to curl his fingers just right, eliciting a stifled whine from her lips. She pulls her hips away, overwhelmed by the stretch and the growing pressure inside of her. Though he knows she’s fingered herself before, his fingers must feel foreign, better than what she can do for herself. 

He pushes a third inside of her, opening her up, and he can feel how she flexes around him. She wraps her fingers around his wrist, trying to pull his hand away, but he persists, continuing to curl his fingers against that spot inside of her.

“Don’t fight it.” He demands, pistoning his fingers. “I’m just trying to make you feel good.” 

Her gasps and whines eventually turn into moans. She clenches around his fingers and bucks her hips forward as if her body is begging him for more. 

“I think,” She arches her back, and her voice becomes gaspy as if fighting to fill her lungs with air. “I think I’m close.” 

“Already?” He spits onto her clit and presses his thumb against it.  Electricity surges through her body as he rubs it in slow circles. She watches him with parted lips and shaky breathing as he fuels her oncoming orgasm. “Oh, you’re making this too easy for me.” 

Her head is thrown back, and a strangled moan falls from her lips—sticky arousal floods around his fingers, and her walls spasm around them. 

“There you go.” He soothes, pressing kisses to her cheek. “That feels good, huh?” 

She’s laid out on the comforter, chest heaving and skin flushed. Coriolanus grabs his stiff cock through his pants, trying to ease the growing tension. But he decides he can’t wait to give her a break. 

Her ears perk up at the metallic clink of him undoing his belt. 

“Corio, I- I don’t think-”

He shushes her with a kiss. 

“It’s alright, you can take it. Yeah? Remember what I promised?” 

“That you’d be gentle.” 

“That’s right.” He kicks off his pants and frees his cock from the confines of his briefs. “I’ve always been good to you, haven’t I?” 

She nods in agreement, eyes widening at the size of him. 

He licks his lips as he presses the tip against her cunt, slowly easing his cock inside of her. 

As he sheathes himself inside of her, he presses her thighs to her chest, forcing himself deeper into her warmth. 

She lets out a sharp cry and grabs his waist, trying to push him back. 

“You’re too big, Corio. I don’t think you’ll fit.” 

He hurries to kiss away her complaints. To distract her from the pain. He couldn’t wait. He needed to feel her. He needed her. Whispering against her lips, he soothes her. “You’re okay. I’ll go slow. Yeah?” 

Broken moans fall from her lips as he bottoms out. He groans in pleasure as her fingernails dig into his back, scrambling for some kind of purchase. She was so tight, so wet, and so warm, gripping onto him like a vice. 

Very carefully, he rocks his hips back and forth, letting her adjust to him. The sounds she makes, combined with the slick squelch of her cunt are obscene. Even with his slow movements, he doesn’t think he’ll be able to last long. 

He drops his lips to her neck, teeth grazing the fragile skin before biting down.

“Ah- please, don’t leave a mark.”

Disregarding her words, he sucks a slowly blooming bruise onto her neck. He doesn’t care if it’s dark. He wants people to see it and know who left it there. 

Maybe he does love her, he thinks. He loves how she complements him, her sweetness dampening his harsher attributes. He loves her creativity, her ambition, and how she always hungers to better herself. She’s perfect. She could be more than just a designer. She could be influential, a figure in the history of Panem. 

“I have an idea.” He hums against her neck, stilling his hips.

“Yeah?” 

“I want you to be part of the games.”

“What do you mean?” She impatiently shifts her hips, trying to get him to move again. 

“You can be a…” he pauses to think, looking into her blown-out pupils, “a stylist. You can design the tributes' looks for the opening ceremony and the interviews. Maybe we can implement uniforms for the actual games.” 

She pulls back, but he keeps her locked in place, hands grabbing at the flesh of her hips. Her eyes no longer look glazed over with lust. Instead, there’s a flash of clarity within them.

“No.” 

“What do you mean, no?”

“No, Corio.” Her voice is firm. She has her mind made up. “I won’t do it.” 

His lust begins to mix with anger. She can’t deny him. Not now, not ever. Not after everything he has done for her.

His hand reaches for her chin, and she whimpers. 

“Yes, you will because I’m not asking.”

“You can’t tell me what to do.” She struggles against his hold. “You don’t own me.”

“Don’t bite the hand that feeds you,” He snarls, fingers digging into her jaw. “I gave you this life, and I can easily take it away from you.”

“Let go of me, please.”  

Earlier promises of being gentle are tossed away. She’s beginning to let out pained squeaks from the pressure on her cheeks, and the hand on her hip digs into the soft flesh, creating red divots close to drawing blood. 

“Look at all that I have given you. All of your nice clothes and these fancy internships were because of me. Without me, you’d be freezing to death in that shed you used to live in.” He pulls his hips back and slams his cock back into her dripping cunt, eliciting a cry from her. “I made you who you are.” He cruelly bullies his cock into her, picking up his speed every time her hands weakly try to push him away. “All you have to do is be good for me, and I’ll give you whatever you want.” He forces her to look at him, to stare into her glassy eyes. “Are you going to be good?”

She doesn’t reply, or rather, she can’t. All she could do was strain against him with dark, mascara-stained tears rolling down her cheeks. 

Those eyes that once gazed upon him with fondness are now filled with fear. 

“Are you going to be good?” He punctuates his words with a hand to her throat, giving it a light squeeze. It’s enough pressure to establish a threat but not enough to take away her ability to breathe.  

Her teary eyes blink, and she nods. 

“Yes,” She whispers. “I’ll be good.”

“So,” He slows his movements and brings his lips to her ear, warm breath tickling her skin. “What do you say? 

Once again, he circles her sensitive clit with his thumb. 

She sobs, clenching around him, and he can tell that she’s close to cumming again. 

“You’re not going to cum until you answer me.” 

“Please, Corio, don’t make me decide. Not right now.”

“I want-” He groans, feeling himself falling close to the edge. “I need an answer.” 

She sobs and tries to look away, but the hand on her face won’t let her. 

“Please.”

His face moves closer to hers, her hot breath fanning his cheeks. 

“I can feel you clenching around me, and I know you can’t hold it in. Give me an answer now.” More tears stream down her face, and she squeezes her eyes shut. “If you cum before giving me an answer, I’ll ruin this pretty cunt.”

There’s a second of silence, save for the sound of his skin slapping against hers before she nods. 

“Yes,” she whispers. 

“Yes, what?” 

“I’ll do it.” 

He quickens his pace, chasing after his own pleasure, and she all but screams. 

The fire in his burns, ready to overtake him, but something isn’t right. 

“Open your eyes.” He demands. “I want you to look at me when I fill you up.” 

She blinks her eyes open, all wide and wet, and he’s unable to hold back. Tightening his hold on her, he forces his hips against her own, burying his cock to the hilt and releasing inside of her. She flutters around him, desperate gasps for air falling from her wanting mouth as she cums with him. 

They stay in this position, both trying to catch their breath. Coriolanus is the first to pull away, rubbing her thighs to loosen the tired muscles. 

She lays there, surrounded by his fluffy white sheets, saying nothing. He gently kisses her cheek, attempting to pull an answer from her, but when it proves unsuccessful, he leaves to draw a bath. 

… 

“You don’t have class tomorrow, right?” 

The question draws her out of her gaze, now realizing she’s curled up in the tub with her knees drawn to her chest. The water is warm, cloudy, almost milky, and smells like roses. She couldn't bear to look at him right now, but she managed to force an answer from her lips. 

“No,” she fights the urge to flinch when his fingers brush her hair away from her neck. “It’s my day off.”

“Good.” Coriolanus dips the washcloth in the tub and gently wipes it against her skin. “You’ll come with me to see Dr. Gaul. Bring your portfolio.”

Her body shudders at the thought of meeting the woman, but more notably, knowing that the man she held so much love for was nothing like the man he portrayed himself to be. 

She once thought that he was her patron, but the truth was that he was her owner. All of the riches she had gained this past year meant nothing now. They weren’t hers. They were his. He had given her a life of safety where she could flourish and provide for her family, but it was one separated from the world she once knew. Her parents and friends from the fabric shop were replaced by the same obscenely wealthy elite who would have thumbed their nose at her if it weren’t for the proximity to him. 

Every gentle brush of his fingers on her skin reminds her of what he’s done to her. How he now owns her.

Her mind falls to a lecture from a year ago. It was about evolution and apex predators. The boa, she remembers, was nonvenomous but deadly, wrapping themselves around their prey, squeezing their bodies until their circulation stopped and their lungs could no longer pull any oxygen. What’s more chilling, she thinks, is that they know to monitor their heartbeat, waiting for their heart to stop before swallowing them whole. 

He’s wrapped himself around her, tightening his hold. She knows she can struggle, but he won’t loosen his grip. He’ll just constrict around her, tighter and tighter, until there’s no more room for her to fight—no more room to breathe. 

“I’ve been very sweet on you, and I can keep doing that.” He hums. “But, I can be cruel as well. You and I both know I don’t want to do that.” 

Finally, she finds the courage to look at him; those blue eyes are now colder than ever. 

She tries to whisper, but when he raises a brow, she clears her throat and meekly responds. 

“Thank you, Coriolanus. For everything.”

[thefreakandthehair]

I just wanna see that smile

wc: 1.1k | tags: canon-compliant injury/recovery, hospital setting, getting together, (brief and inferred mutual) pining, first kiss

a/n: happy (belated) birthday to my pal, @firefly-party! kei drew this piece last year and it was one of the first artworks we talked about when we became friends. this series has continued to live in my brain ever since, so I decided to write a little something in the universe!

Eddie woke up on March 26th, 1986 and Steve’s waited patiently for this moment ever since. 

Well, patient is a misnomer— he’d waited quietly to anyone not named Robin or Dustin. Robin, because she knows him too well and there’s no point in trying to hide anything from her and Dustin, because he’d apparently grown up overnight and pieced together that Steve sitting at Eddie’s bedside and holding his fucking hand every time he waltzed into the room meant something. 

Or maybe it was when Steve gave Eddie all of his rings back, sliding them carefully onto his shaking fingers with a comforting smile. 

Or maybe when Eddie sat up unassisted for the first time and Steve nearly hit the ceiling, bracing him in a panic as if all of his stitches and staples would burst with the tiny movement he’d been working toward in physical therapy. 

Hell, maybe it was Steve taking over some of Eddie’s care for himself, washing his hair and braiding it because the staff at Hawkins Memorial are doing nothing more than the bare minimum to make sure they don’t get sued, or even more frightening, reamed out by the new duo of Hopper and Wayne again. Either way, his hair was making Steve’s own scalp itchy. 

Dustin never tells Steve what it was exactly that tipped him off but whatever it was, it’s enough for Dustin to give Steve the floor when Eddie’s getting ready to discharge back home. And that’s how, exactly two months later to the day from Eddie waking up, Steve enters Eddie’s otherwise empty room armed with a special treat in the form of milkshakes to find Eddie pouring over an unfortunately familiar stack of papers. 

“NDA?” Steve asks, nodding at the papers in Eddie’s lap. He’s upright, fully dressed in the black sweatpants Jeff brought by and a cut off Metallica tee shirt, bandages around his stomach and neck. 

Eddie mutters as he reads under his breath, eyes flitting across the page. 

“How the fuck do they expect any of us common folk to understand a fucking word of this? Hereby? Wherein? Hitherto? What fucking year did I wake up in, man?”

“Yeah, I think the whole point is that you don’t read what you’re signing but I’ll let you in on a little secret.” Steve huffs a small laugh through his nose as he steps carefully around Eddie’s crutches. “You may as well just sign it because if you don’t, they’ll forge it anyway. Now finish signing your life rights away so you can have this milkshake with me.” 

Eddie perks up, looking away from the mess of papers and smiling up at Steve with a smile so genuine, it punches the air out of his lungs. He keeps looking at him like this, like Steve’s a breath of fresh air, like he's someone Eddie wants to have around. 

Steve isn’t sure what to do with that look yet, but he’s sure glad it’s there. 

“Celebration milkshakes? Is this a freedom gift?” Eddie signs the NDA quickly and sets the pen down on the bed next to him. 

“It sure is. Figured this could make up for all those lame popsicles from the cafeteria.” 

The mattress creaks as Steve sits down on the edge, just to the side of the railing, and hands Eddie the strawberry treat. Their fingers graze, Steve’s chilled and Eddie’s warm. His hand is still a little shaky, trembling as he takes hold of the cup, but they’re warm and warm means alive. 

Eddie’s hand can tremble for the rest of his goddamn life so long as it’s always warm. 

They each take a sip, smooth ice cream slurping up their straws, and after a moment, Eddie sighs.

“Is it weird that I’m actually sort of worried about leaving?” 

Steve’s eyebrows knit together, looking down at Eddie’s rings glinting beneath the offensive fluorescent lights above them.

“What are you worried about?”

“Uh, well, I did almost die. And the town still wishes I did. It’s a lot easier to make those dreams a reality outside of these walls, y’know? And I’m uh…” Steve watches as Eddie takes a breath and Steve suddenly misses the early days when Eddie was connected to the heart rate monitor. 

“You’re…?” Steve presses, sipping his milkshake again to appear casual. 

“I see you all the time here. Guess I just don’t want that to change.” 

Steve’s heart skips a beat, clattering in his chest and pounding at his ribs, desperately trying to crack him right open and run to the man who’s claimed it. Eddie watches him with cautious eyes, opens his mouth to say something else but Steve cuts him off before he can take it back. 

“Why do you think that’d change? Forest Hills is a lot closer than this shithole, and you won’t be kept under lock and key. And as for the first thing, well, Wayne and Nancy have a lot in common and I have a bat loaded up with nails in the trunk of my car.” Steve rests his free hand on Eddie’s knee. “No one's gonna fuck with you. Don’t worry about that.” 

“You sound a little cocky there, Stevie.” Eddie lifts one eyebrow, glancing from Steve’s hand up to his eyes. “Ready to fight for my honor or something?”

“Yep.” 

He hadn’t brought the milkshakes intending to use them as props, but he’s glad he has something to do to fill the space as Eddie watches him with questioning eyes. As he slurps through the straw, grating noise still preferable over the awkward silence, Eddie’s pinched expression turns softer, realization dawning between the stark white walls of the hospital and the pink ice cream in both of their hands. 

“You’re serious.” Eddie says. 

“Took you that long to figure that out?” Steve teases. 

“I’ve been a little busy with learning how to breathe and walk again. Y’know, just little things.” Eddie rolls his eyes with that same fond smile, free hand lacing its fingers through Steve’s. “So what you’re saying is that I’ll see you just as much outside of this prison as I have inside of it?” 

Steve shrugs. “Probably even more, honestly. There are no visiting hours at Wayne’s, and it’s not like I have a job to rush off to these days. You’re stuck with me, Ed. At least for as long as you want me around.” 

Eddie snorts, unceremoniously scoffing in Steve’s face as if in disbelief.

“Don’t make promises like that. What happens when I never want you to leave?” 

The air shifts, growing heavier as they find themselves leaning closer, two satellites orbiting one another by nothing but gravitational pull. 

Steve’s not sure who actually closes the gap, but he finds himself with his lips pressed against Eddie’s— sweet, chilled, a little chapped but smiling against his. Months of waiting, of hoping that he’d get this opportunity, come to a deafening crescendo and it takes all of his discipline to not push. Instead, they pull apart and Steve smiles, tucking loose hair behind Eddie’s ear. 

“That’s easy. I’d just never leave.”

fun fact: kei, I wrote your birthday down in my calendar as the 28th for some reason, a solid ten days late, so know that this was planned from the get-go but was just a tad bit late.

[der-schweizer]

This is a little idea about the post of @proneterror204 make sure to hit them up for the og post.

Danny was somewhere between bored, tired (which he almost always was) and generally not okay. How his parents had managed to draw the attention of Wayne Enterprise and get invited to a Gala that Bruce Wayne himself was hosting, was beyond him.

Granted he hadn't even known about it until about three days ago. Honestly he should be used to getting utterly blindsided by his parents ‘Come on, Danny. We are going to drive for the next three days. It's going to be fun’-type of surprises.

They had just left him enough time to lock down the portal, something his dad should have done, grab his suit that Vlad had gifted him. (As much as he dislikes the Froot Loop, Danny wasn’t stupid enough to throw out a multi-thousand Dollar suit.) And then they were off.

He managed to sneak in a few texts to Sam and Tucker on the ride. So now he was here, halfway bored out of his head. He had already been talked to multiple times, and each time got mistaken for one of the Wayne kids.

Danny could see it honestly. Blue eyes, Black hair, decent build body and an air of exhaustion that hung around most of them like a cloak. It was probably the reason why they kept coming to him. Thankfully he managed to shake them off rather quickly.

He had finally found a quiet corner where he could lurk and eat some of the finger food that was laid out on the buffet. Going for thirds was tempting as everything was very tasty but sadly not very filling.

“Man, I could go for a burger.”

A snort came from next to him, which nearly startled him. The girl that had been in the corner before was putting a hand over her mouth in clear embarrassment.

“Uhm. Hi?” Danny gave an awkward wave, not knowing how he should talk to her. In turn she said a quiet “Hello” whilst also signing it. Danny of course immediately picked up on it.

“Sorry to ask but are you…” he gestured towards his ears, signing himself in case she was deaf. The girl looked at him with surprise before smiling softly. “No, I don't like talking.”

“Ah, perfectly understandable. I do know ASL, one of my friends is almost deaf but she got those fancy implants that let her hear everything.”

In lieu of the answer all he got was an “Mhh.” He went quiet after, having no fucking idea what to talk about. Danny quietly wondered what the fuck he could even talk about, the weather? Either rain or fog. The city? Rockbottom in every poll except for crime. Thinking about it gave him an idea.

“Say, who is your favorite Vigilante?”

The question got her attention, making her think for a moment before quietly saying. “Like Wing. Yours?” Danny mused for a second, humming loudly.

“Hmm, I think it's Orphan. I mean, have you seen her move? Just pure grace and elegance. I bet she is an immortal Vampire that simply got bored and decided to fight crime.”

He didn’t see how she blushed, “No.”

Danny just scoffed, “Are you kidding me? She moves with far too much elegance and grace to be mortal. Credit to the other bats but they move like mortals. She dances around both rogues and vigilantes!”

She turned away for a moment, trying to hide that she was blushing but it didn't really work. “Orphan. Is. good. What about others?”

“Oh, hmm.” Danny looked up whilst tapping a finger against his chin. “Well there’s Red Hood and Stabby Robin. Both are top tier, which should be a no brainer.”

She tilted her head in thought. “Why?”

“Well. Stabby robin practices the art of the sword, a forgotten art in modern times. And Red Hood shoots pedophiles! Who doesn't like that?” Danny set his empty plate aside, looking around for a waiter with drinks.

Her answer drew his full attention back to her. “Batman.”

Danny scoffed at the name. “Yeah, of course he doesn't like that. I mean have you looked at the costume of the very first Robin? Doesn't take much imagination why he dislikes Hood offing pedos.”

A crackle in her ear drew Cass’s attention away from him. “Red Robin here, Lantern and Superman are moving in to arrest his parents. Can you keep him distracted for a while longer?”

“Mmm. You still want burger?”

“Huh? Uh, yeah? Do you know a good place?” The question itself caught him absolutely off guard.

“Yes, take me out?” She tilted her head, giving him a cute look. Danny just shrugged, “Sure, my parents are going to take hours to explain everything anyway and they keep getting sidetracked whilst doing so. I fully expect to still be here tomorrow. Might as well spend the time with a cute girl.”

She blushed visibly, then stuck out her hand. “Cass, we date now.” He grabbed her hand, flushing a bit as well. “I’m Danny.”

“No, not Danny. You boyfriend.” She hooked her arm with his and pulled him along. Danny quickly went along with it, not saying no to it.

In Cass’s ear Red Robin spoke again. “Uh Cass? That wasn't the plan. You don't have to date him. Cass? Please don't make me explain this to B.” A click was heard as another com went to the same line. Batman growled out a simple. “Follow. Them.” before it went off.

Cassandra just put a bit more pep into her step as she pulled her new boyfriend towards her personal favorite Bat burger.

Nightwing clicked his comm on, “Found them. They are in the parking lot at main and fifth street.”

He spent a moment taking a picture of them. It showed them sitting on a concert divider, with Danny pointing up with his left whilst holding a half eaten burger in his right. Cass was sitting next to him,a bunch of fries sticking out of her mouth whilst she was grabbing a bunch more. She is also starring right at the camera. Her look perfectly said ‘if you ruin this date, i will end you’.

Batman's voice echoed in his ear, “Keep your eyes on Danny. He might have the same ideology as his parents. Oa and the lanterns are already moving in on the Ghostly Investigation Ward. We might have to take him into custody if things turn bad.”

Dick was just about to answer when Cass abruptly stood up, dranging Danny up and then away.

“Hold on, they just started moving again.” Nightwing got up from his perch and followed them quickly.

Tim worked on cutting through the strange rope, “Okay. Just to make sure I got everything right. Danny and Cass went to Batburger and had some takeout, then went for a walk in the park whilst you followed them, right?”

Dick who was trying not to wiggle, nodded. "Yeah."

“Then some weird ass shadow creature jumped you, tied you up and hung you from this tree, right?”

“You are forgetting the part where I described it as a lady from the eighteen sixties, and the part where she said to leave ‘the king of kings’ in peace. Other than that you got it spot on.”

“You know, I would make fun of you for that but considering that there is no knot in this rope and its tough as hell I will believe you.”

“Great. Do we know where they went after I lost them?”

Tim looked him right in the eyes. “Steph found them, and considering how red she was when she came back, it's best to wait until morning.”

Dick opened his mouth to ask why before it clicked in his head. “Oh.”

“Yeah, oh.”

Danny woke up groggy, his eyes were crusted over and his limbs felt heavy. For a moment he just laid there, then did a full body stretch, stretching from toes to fingertips.

After it he laid there for a moment listening to noises in the room. He could hear cars and their horns. Some shouting down the hall and the shower in the bathroom.

That prompted the memories of last night which caused the ‘i got laid’ grin. He let out a satisfied noise, before crossing his arms behind his head.

After a moment Danny wondered if Cass would be up to ‘share’ the shower only for him to freeze at the sight of the Batman in the room.

“Uuuhhh.”

“Daniel James Fenton.” Batman growled out. “You are hereby placed under investigation by the Justice League for potential violation of interdimensional rights. Your parents have already been arrested and are awaiting their trial. Do you have anything to say to that?”

[cameronspecial]

My birthday is Jan 21st so if you have nothing planned on this date maybe this one could come out? ❤️

So basically just a drew X reader where it’s her birthday (obviously) and she thinks everyone forgot and she’s extra sad cause he’s away filming but he comes to surprise her and make her a big suprise !!

Forgotten Day

Pairing: Drew Starkey x Reader

Warnings: N/A

Pronouns: She/Her

Word Count: 0.5K

A/N: Happy Birthday, @loves0phelia! I hope you have an amazing day, Lovely.

Masterlist

Y/N wakes up with no text from her boyfriend. A frown falls on her face because, in their five years of dating, he has never forgotten her birthday, even when he is away filming. He would send her a text at midnight her time, even though she had most likely fallen asleep out of excitement, and send her a gift. Maybe he is filming late tonight. It’s okay, he’ll text her when he gets up. However, as she goes on with her day, she starts to think that everyone in her life forgot her special day. The only people who have wished her a happy birthday are Drew’s fans on social media. She’s tried to call her friends and family, but they won’t answer. Tears are streaming down her face when the doorbell rings. His gift is there. It’s a little later in the day than it normally comes, yet it’s not like he can control shipping time. She dashes toward the door and looks around for the box. Instead, she just finds an envelope sticking out of the mailbox. Her hands tear into the envelope to find a blank piece of paper with only an address printed in the middle. 

Confusion fills her; however, it doesn’t stop her from getting changed into something more appropriate and getting in her car. Going to a random address on a mysterious note is probably a bad idea, except it’s not like she has anything else to do on her special day. It appears there is a glimmer of hope for her day to turn around because she is in front of a banquet hall. She runs up the stairs and the door in front of her has a sign that says Y/N Y/L/N’s Surprise Birthday Party. She giggles, whoever planned the party didn’t think about the surprise part very well. 

Y/N takes her phone out to check that she doesn’t have any tears on her face and pushes the door open. “Surprise!” the crowd in front of her yells. She grins at the sight of all of her family members and friends. Her parents wrap her in a hug, wishing her a happy birthday. “Awww, thank you! Is this Drew’s gift for me? Did he plan all of this from South Carolina?” she asks them. A tap on her shoulder causes her to turn around. “Actually, I prefer to think that I am your gift.” Before her is Drew in all of his glory. She squeals while she jumps into his arms. “I thought you forgot about my birthday,” she cries into his neck. He presses his lips to her forehead, “I didn’t, but I’m sorry you thought that. I was on a flight early this morning and then we were all so busy getting this all set up for you. We put our phone on silent so we didn’t get all of your texts.” “It’s okay. This is all so amazing. And you are here. I love it. Thank you, Drew,” she thanks him with a kiss on his lips. He smiles at her, “You’re welcome. Happy Birthday. I hope you enjoy your surprise party.” “It’s not much of a surprise if you put it on the door though,” she giggles. Drew nods, “Right, I’ll have to take that into account next birthday. Nonetheless, Happy Birthday. I love you, Baby.” “I love you too, Babe.” 

Taglist: @winterrrnight @loves0phelia @thelomlisrafecameron @victory-in-the-llama @starkowswife @drewsmusee

[colealexart]

Can you tell us the story of you meeting Ashley and Sam?

sure!

we waited in ashley's queue after seeing laura but it was taking a while and they had to leave for lunch, then photo ops. when we did see her, we had been in the queue for a while because she likes to spend time with people, so the nerves that i was feeling at the beginning kind of dissipated. i was still super nervous to meet her, because she's ashley johnson, but my back and legs were hurting from standing in the queue for so long, so that kind of took my mind off of it a little.

my friend went before me in the queue and got my fearne print signed by her, and i was getting the same print signed too. so when it was my turn, she was like "ohh, that person had this print too" and i was like "yeah i drew it" and she looked so shocked(?) lmao. she was like "you did?! oh my god, it's beautiful!"

i mentioned how much i loved ellie and how much the last of us means to me, and she looked so touched. she stopped signing for a moment to listen to me, with the softest smile on her face. she is very good at keeping you in conversation, so much so that i completely forgot to gift her the extra fearne print that i brought for her.

i did give her the dice that i brought for her though, and she looked so excited. i started saying “i’m sure you receive so many dice but-“ and before i could finish, she interrupted me and said "NO, LAURA GETS ALL THE DICE!" which i thought was hilarious. we played rollies and i got a nat 1 and she got a 4. i also got to hear the signature ashley johnson quote “its caaacked” in person because my dice was slightly tilted off the paper.

i also completely forgot to ask for a selfie, because... well. she's ashley johnson. i was lowkey ascending into another dimension.

as for sam, i had met him before a couple times, during our group and single photo op, but for the autograph he came immediately after ashley. during our photo op, i wore the cursed sam mask that was given out during the live show prank, and he laughed and called it horrifying. i didn't realize, but during our photo he was pulling a face at me because i wore the mask, and it makes me laugh every time. (also, as we were waiting, he introduced himself to every single person taking a photo with him, which i find very funny. sir, we are literally here for you. we paid for this.)

for the sam autograph, on all the other tables i went to, they had you talk to someone beforehand to tell them your name and any autograph personalizations you wanted, so they could write it down on a post-it to make it easier for the talent. however, with sam's, it was a little different. the person helping him out asked for my name, and instead of writing it down he personally introduced me to sam himself. it immediately relaxed me, for some reason. it didn't feel like i was meeting a celebrity (even though i had already met him briefly during the photo ops.) he shook my hand and said, jokingly, "wow, i've never seen this before" about my fcg print. (i had tweeted at him a couple months ago with the print i was going to get signed at mcm, and he responded "cant wait".)

we made conversation about the live show. sam is very soft-spoken irl. he took his time with my autograph and we chatted about the flat white with vanilla please prank on marisha. he said it's very fun to bully her lol. he then took a second to look at the fcg print, and said that it's really cool and he loves the design. i had a spare in my bag, so i offered it to him. he said "oh, i don't want to take it from you, so only if you're sure" which was just. the sweetest. i gave him the print and he was very gracious and shook my hand again.

sorry, this got long lol. i had so much fun meeting them and they truly made everyone feel so welcome and loved. i could talk about my experience at mcm and the live show until the end of time.

[inlovewithpandora]

- My Heart -

Pairing: Aged!up Tsireya (18) x fem! Metkayina!deaf!reader (18)

Synopsis: You and Tsireya have been friends for years and you’ve always wondered if she liked you. You felt like there was a spark between the both of you until something happened and blew the fire away… or did it?

Content: childhood friends to lovers, slight angst, miscommunication, a little hurt w/ comfort, super fluffy, kiss at the end, courting gift, courting proposal

Author’s Note: This only took me two days to write! Writing for Tsireya is so fun for me, Im going to try and write for her more often! (So if you have requests for her feel free to send them in)

- ‘Sentences bolded and italicized indicates signing’

- Please excuse any mistakes!

Word Count: 3.2k

Glossary: Tsakarem - Tsahìk in training || Skxawng - idiot,moron || yawntutsyìp - little loved one, darling || Olo'eyktan - Clan Leader || Tsahìk - Spiritual Leader

Extra: requests are open! Please read rules prior to requesting!

Links: Navigation || Masterlist || Taglist

Ever since you were a small child you knew you were different. You couldn't hear the ocean waves crashing into the sand, the laughter of children playing, or the voices of your parents when they attempted to communicate with you.

When your parents noticed that you didn't react to loud noise, them calling your name, or anything else related to hearing they immediately took you to the Tsahìk hoping that she could cure you.

Ronal tried multiple rituals, herbs, and techniques but nothing was successful.

That's when you were deemed deaf.

You were never mad or sad that Eywa made you this way. You felt like the Great Mother blessed you with a deep connection to her world. You always believed that not having one sense heightened your others.

Wherever you looked or touched you could feel her presence. The wind gliding across your skin, the coolness of the ocean water as you swam around, looking at the beautiful aquatic creatures, and the way your body absorbed the sun's warmth.

You admired every aspect and detail of Pandora.

You always loved collecting shells and incorporating them into your latest hairstyle, weaving them into necklaces, bracelets, or gorgeous headpieces.

Growing up you didn't have many friends due to your condition. Children in the village weren't fond of being your companion because they felt like you wouldn't be able to keep up with them.

You and Tsireya met for the first time when both of you were ten years old, she had seen you walking around the village multiple times and she always wondered why you were alone. One day Tsireya and Ronal were walking to their marui when Tsireya saw you from afar, sitting in the sand drawing different images with your fingers.

"Mother, why is she always alone? Why doesn't she talk to anyone?" Tsireya questioned her mother

"She is deaf yawntutsyìp therefore she cannot speak since she's never learned how. Whenever someone tries to speak to her she can't hear them" Ronal knew how much of a loving and caring heart her daughter had and she knew that Tsireya wanted to get to know you, "Maybe you should go play with her one day, I know she would love your company"

And the next day Tsireya came up to you in hopes to create a friendship. You were doing your normal routine, playing in the sand. As you drew pictures of your favorite fish you felt a tap on your shoulder which startled you a little. You turned around and came face to face with Tsireya, 'Hi, I'm Tsireya what's your name?' she signed to you with a friendly, bright smile

'I'm y/n'

'Do you want to make necklaces with me?' Tsireya gestures to the basket next to her filled with woven string, shells, polished stones, and other materials.

You were surprised by her offer. That someone wanted to do an activity with you, especially the Olo'eyktan's and Tsahìk's daughter, 'Yes I would like that. Necklaces are my favorite thing to make' you sign to her, feeling a sense of excitement swirl inside you.

Tsireya sat down next to you and placed the basket in between both of you and began to create beautiful necklaces to wear around the village. That was one of your favorite childhood memories, the day you made your first friend.

—

After that day, both of you were inseparable from each other including today. Both of you were now eighteen and were still stuck to the hip. Every day you and Tsireya spent together her heart filled with love for you.

She loved watching you teach young Na'vi children sign language. The way you were patient with them, the excitement on your face when they mastered a new word or sentence, and the passion you showed while teaching them new things.

You and Tsireya would spend any waking moment together. While Tsireya did her clan duties she would always ask you to tag along with her and of course, you didn't mind. Some days while her and Ronal would work on creating new healing herbs you would sit in the corner quietly, just observing, and sometimes Ronal would let you assist.

Tsireya had such an effect on you. The way your body tingles when she taps you to get your attention, the way your heart skips a beat when she signs your name gracefully, and you absolutely loved it when both of you would sneak out at night and stargaze under the beautiful moonlight.

Even though you had love for her, you never wanted to admit it out loud. You felt like Tsireya could do so much better than you. Multiple people wanted to be Tsireya's future mate which you knew. She had multiple potential suitors, hearing suitors.

Your deafness made you feel inadequate because you would never be able to hear her speak sweet nothings to you, if you ever decided to adopt children you wouldn't even be able to hear their giggles, and if they got hurt you couldn’t speak comforting words to them. Just the thought of it that and more made you feel insecure that you couldn't provide Tsireya what she deserves in a significant other.

For the past few weeks, you and Tsireya haven't been spending as much time together, due to her teaching the Sully children the way of water. You wished you could see her more often but you knew she had a numerous amount of duties due to her being tsakarem.

Since Tsireya wasn't around as much you've been spending more time with Ronal, helping her with her duties which she didn't mind because she loved having you around.

'y/n go get Tsireya for me, she should still be at the beach teaching the Sully children' Ronal requested as she organized her collection of herbs.

You nodded in response, pushing yourself on your feet and began walking towards the beach. As you walked you were getting slight butterflies at the thought of seeing Tsireya. You haven't seen her all day so you were anticipating seeing her beautiful face and feeling her touch.

As your feet planted on the sand you begin to look around for Tsireya but you didn't see her, as you wander around the beach you ran into Ao'nung, 'Ao'nung, have you seen Tsireya? Your mother is asking for her' you signed to him hoping he could help you with your search for his sister

'Oh yeah her and that skxawng are over there' he signed with an annoyed look at the mention of Lo'ak

'Okay thank you' you begin to walk over to the place Aonung said Tsireya was.

As you walk to the other end of the beach you see Lo'ak and Tsireya sitting next to each other. Right when you were about to make your presence known and walk into their line of sight you saw Tsireya place her hands on Lo’ak’s chest.

When you saw the way Lo'ak looked at her, the way his eyes frantically tried to avert her gaze as he blushed made your face contort. The way Tsireya touched him didn't seem platonic, it seemed loving, the way you wanted her to touch you she touched him and it made you feel multiple emotions at once.

As you continued to watch them your stomach began to churn. Watching the person you love be with someone else in this way made you feel disgusted. You couldn't believe that she was into Lo'ak, she never said anything about him that gave the notion that she liked him so you were taken aback.

You could see Lo'ak begin to lean in and that just sent you over the top, you had enough. You turned your heels in the sand and stormed away. Knowing that they were kissing right now made you feel an agonizing pain in your heart, you felt so stupid for having feelings for Tsireya when you knew that her heart could belong to another.

You felt dumb for thinking someone, thinking Tsireya, the next heir of the Tsahìk title could ever love someone like you.

You didn't even walk back to Ronal's marui. You went to your marui instead and began to sulk, cry, whatever you needed to do so this melancholic feeling could subside.

—

You've been avoiding Tsireya for almost a week now. Every time you say her even attempt to walk in your direction you turned the other way. You couldn't even look at her without seeing an image of her and Lo'ak, the thought of her loving him made your skin crawl.

Currently, you and Kiri were talking while sitting at the pier, 'Kiri I love your shawl, your going to have to show me how to make one'

'Yes, of course, you can come by my mauri tomorrow and I'll show you'

As you and Kiri continued laughing and conversing your mind couldn't do anything except drift off to Tsireya. As much as you wanted to get her out of your head you couldn't and thinking of her not seeing you the way you saw her just made you feel sick to the stomach.

'y/n what's wrong? Are you okay?' Kiri noticed how your once happy expression turned downcast in a matter of seconds

'I saw Lo'ak and Tsireya together almost a week ago' As your hands moved your eyes held nothing but sadness, just talking about the situation made tears want to evade your eyes.

Kiri saw your expression and she was slightly confused, she didn’t understand why you would be saddened by that, ‘Why is that bothering you?’

‘Because…’ you hesitated on signing the rest of the sentence. You felt like if you signed it, it would feel too real, ‘I like Tsireya but she doesn’t like me back’

It all clicked for Kiri, she noticed how you’ve been avoiding Tsireya and it all made sense to her, you were lovesick, ‘oh y/n, I’m so sorry come here’ Kiri pulled you into a hug, rubbing your back in a comforting manner.

As Kiri comforted you, you could see someone walking in the distance. Once the person got closer you could see their face. It was Tsireya, the person you didn’t want to see.

you pulled back from Kiri’s embrace and pushed yourself onto your feet, 'I'm sorry Kiri, I have to go' As you signed your eyes began glossy from unshed tears. If you stood there another minute you felt like you would breakdown completely so you just took off.

As Tsireya watched you scurry off it made her ears pin to her skull, she couldn't understand why you'd been avoiding her. She has missed you dearly. She missed hearing your laugh and watching your face light up with a smile. She couldn’t understand why you’ve been so distant all of a sudden so she was determined to get to the bottom of it.

She walked up to her Kiri and began to ask her questions, “Do you know what’s wrong with y/n? She’s been avoiding me and I don’t understand why”

“Well… I don’t feel like it’s my place to say…” Kiri didn’t want to out your feelings because she didn’t know if Tsireya knew how you felt about her or not.

“Please Kiri, I need your help” Kiri could hear the desperation in her voice, she knew that Tsireya really wanted to know how to fix it with you.

“All I’m going to say is talk to her. The reason she’s avoiding can be fixed with honest and open conversation”

“Okay, I’ll go talk to her, right now. Thank you Kiri” Tsireya began to walk around the village with a determined look on her face, trying to find you so she could make this right.

—

You were sitting on the edge of your bed crying, wondering why you felt so upset about this. You knew that Tsireya could have feelings for another person but deep down you hoped to Eywa it was you, that she felt a burning desire for you.

As the tears flowed freely down your cheeks, you began to see a shadow of someone walking inside your marui. When Tsireya walked in she saw you frantically wiping your tears which made her feel a twinge of pain in her heart.

‘Why are you here?’

‘Because I haven’t talked to you in almost a week, you’ve been avoiding me and I want to know why’

You began shaking your head. You didn’t want to tell her because you felt like it didn’t matter. You figured there was no point in telling her your true feelings if she didn’t like you back, ‘No Tsireya, I’m not telling you’

Tsireya's face began to contort into a confused expression, ‘Why not?’

‘Because it doesn’t matter anymore Tsireya’

‘Why doesn’t it matter? Tell me, I want to make this right, I want to know what’s bothering you’ Tsireya placed her hands on your shoulder, gliding her thumb against your skin lightly.

Oh how you missed her touch, the way her hands felt against your skin made you want to melt into a puddle but all you could do is think about how that same hand was on Lo’ak, ‘Stop Tsireya’ you stand up abruptly and walk over to the other side of your mauri. You could feel all the sadness stir into another emotio, Anger.

‘Stop what?’

‘Touching me, just stop okay?! Why don’t you go and touch Lo’ak!’ Your hands were being to move at the speed of light, the more you signed to her your heartbeat began to increase.

‘Touch Lo’ak? What are you talking about?’

‘I saw you and him at the end of the beach, you put your hands on his chest and then he leaned and… kissed you’

‘y/n wait that’s not-’

‘You know I really thought you could like me, that you would see me the way I see you but it’s clear that you like him instead of me. I feel like such a skxawng for thinking you would want someone like me, someone who can’t even give you what you need in a mate’

From this moment there was no going back for you, you were starting to ramble and there was no possible way to take back any of your words. You didn’t want her to find out that you liked her this way but it was too late.

‘You deserve someone who can listen to your problems. Someone who can vocally tell you words of love and affection, someone, who has the same abilities as you and I can’t provide any of that’ Your hands began to shake as you signed, sobs began to try and emerge from your throat but you tried your best to reduce them.

‘I know you love another and I can’t help but be upset, I can’t provide you with things as he can and it makes me feel horrible’

The only thing Tsireya could do is shake her head, the way she saw you talk about yourself saddened her. She feels dumb for not telling you her true feelings before. She felt like if she would’ve admitted her fondness for you this whole thing would’ve been avoided.

‘y/n, I do not like Lo’ak’

‘You don’t?’

‘No, what you saw was me working with him on his breathing lessons and he interpreted it as flirting. When he leaned in attempting to kiss me I told him that my heart already belonged to someone’

Tsireya walked up to you and placed your hand on her chest, letting you feel her heartbeat.

As your hand made contact with her skin, you felt shivers run down your spine. The anger and sadness you felt in your heart were replaced with joy, the joy that your assumption about her liking Lo’ak was false.

‘My heart belongs to you, it always has. From the moment we met as children, I knew you were special and you are. I do not need to hear you vocally speak because you speak to me with your heart. I don’t need to hear your words when I know they are genuine and kind. I don’t need your words when just your touches and your presence is enough, all I need is you y/n’

As you saw Tsireya’s words, seeing how she felt about you made you become overwhelmed with emotion. Your lips began to tremble as you attempted to hold yourself together. This was the moment you’d been waiting on for years, to know that Tsireya loved you just like you loved her.

‘You are not inadequate because you can’t hear like me, it only makes you unique from everyone else. The way you see the world is amazing. The way you care for Eywa, our clan, the young na’vi you teach’ Tsireya takes a small breath, feeling a tear fall down her cheek, ‘The way you love and care for me speaks volumes to where you don’t have you to’

‘I can’t fathom living this life another second without having you by my side…’ Tsireya reaches into her pouch that is around her waist and pulls out a beautiful necklace adorned with small iridescent seashells and delicate beads.

‘I would love nothing more than to court you’ she smiles brightly, the same bright smile she gave you eight years ago when she introduced herself to you. She was still that kind and patient person you meet many years ago, she was the same person you fell in love with.

Your stomach immediately began doing backflips, it felt like butterflies were fluttering inside you. The thought of Tsireya courting you made your heart swell to an unreasonable amount, ‘I would love for you to court me, nothing would make me happier Tsireya’

Tsireya's tail began to swing excitedly behind her, she was filled with bliss that you agreed. As you noticed the movement of her tail it made you let out a small laugh. The same laugh that Tsireya missed, the laugh that could brighten up her day no matter the circumstances.

‘Can you put the necklace on me?’

‘Of course, I can’

As you lifted your hair Tsireya placed the necklace around your neck with ease. You rubbed your fingertips against the smooth shell and all you could do is smile. You couldn’t believe Tsireya just asked to court you, everything happened so fast but everything felt so right. You wouldn’t want it any other way.

As Tsireya stood in front of you her oceanic eyes were staring at you in awe, she couldn’t believe that she had someone as beautiful as you. She felt like the luckiest Na’vi on Pandora to have you.

To her, you were one in a million.

Tsireya gracefully moved her hands up to your face, gently caressing your cheek. Your breathing began to increase slightly, you were in anticipation about what was going to occur next.

Tsireya pulls you into her, pressing her lips gently on yours. As your lips collided you felt a warmth fill your chest.

The kiss was soft yet fiery.

You could almost taste Tsireya’s desire for you on her lips, it made you feel amazing that you could make her this happy and that she felt loved by you.

When you and Tsireya finally broke the kiss you felt the need to gasp for air, you felt breathless yet you loved every second of what just occurred.

As you looked at Tsireya her cheeks were painted bright red, you could tell she loved the kiss just as much as you, ‘I see you y/n, I’ll forever see you’

‘I see you, my heart will forever belong to you’

I hope you enjoyed💗!

Previous fic

Like, comments, and reblogs are highly appreciated💗!

A/N - I’ve been wanting to write a fic like this for a while and @ghoul-bonez convinced me to finally do it! Check out her story ‘I love you, I see you, I trust you’ (Ao’nung x Fem! Deaf! Sully! Reader)

- Also let me know how y’all feel about this type of story because I have more character x deaf!reader ideas

Taglist: @number1gal @liyahsocorro @iwantjaketosullyme @fanboyluvr @kapyzkms @ladespedidas @navegaluv @teyamsbitch @haileymsstuff @onlyloaksgf @kierys-blog @myh3artttt @julyytsireya @gamerxpfighter @h3l3na-pandora @skyv-n @potatoknishesofficial69 @downbadforloak @yetanotherattemptatanaccount @yeosxxx @bakugouswaif @hc-geralt-23 @iluvpandorawomen @myheartfollower

©️inlovewithpandora ━━━ 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 | All rights reserved. Do not repost, reupload, translate, modify, or claim my work as your own.

[footprintsinthesxnd]

It’s Not Christmas Without You

Hello @supervalcsi I am your Secret Santa for @hbowardaily secret santa. I’ll prewarn you this fic is a bit angsty (like a little bit 😂) but I heared that you like angst so I’m hoping it’s okay. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Warnings: very angsty, mentions of death and images of war

Johnny had always loved the festive season, the lights, the carols, the food and the general feeling that no matter what the year threw at them they would make it to the next Christmas. But this year Johnny didn’t feel even remotely festive. He couldn’t see any hope of him making it through the night, let alone the next year. The artillery barrage had finally ceased, and debris lay strewn across the once crisp, white landscape. Fallen branches blocked his view of the front line but he knew they were there, hiding… waiting.

Loud footsteps drew him from his thoughts as a figure stood over him, blocking his view of the sky that for once was clear. Blue smudges spread between the grey clouds almost like a sign of hope.

“Hey Martin, whatcha thinking about?” Y/n all but threw herself down beside him, her characteristic smile on her face, the wide grin that no matter how down you felt on your luck, could make you smile too.

“That we’re doomed.”

Y/n snorted, “Well you got out of the wrong side of your foxhole this morning.” She rolled her eyes dramatically.

“Well, we are. Kraut artillery is hammering us every chance they get, and when they aren’t shelling us the damn cold sets in and you all but freeze your balls off.”

“Come on Martin, don’t be like that. We’re alive aren’t we, that’s all that matters.”

“Yeah, just,” Johnny grumbled, snuggling further into his jacket and shoving his glove-clad hands even deeper into his pockets.

“Right you old Scrooge, you’re coming with me,” she stood, grabbing hold of his arm and dragging him from the depths of his foxhole.

“Who the hell is Scrooge?” Johnny moaned, trailing behind her like a dejected puppy.

“You don’t know who Scrooge is? From ‘A Christmas Carol? Charles Dickens?” Johnny continued to look at her blankly.

“I wish Webster was here, he’d know who I was talking about.”

Johnny laughed, “Yeah good old Webster, couldn’t even go AWOL to help us in this shit. I bet he’s really nice and warm back in that hospital.”

Y/n sighed, turning around to face him, “Don’t be such a downer. I’m glad Webster’s not here. It means he’s safe which means one less of my friends could die at any second. Now I’ll take that as a win.”

Johnny had to admit that it was nice to know that at least one of Easy Company wouldn’t go through this debacle.

“Now come with me and try to smile at least.”

Johnny followed Y/n, walking past foxholes filled with their friends who were still deep in slumber, taking advantage of the few hours of peace.

They approached Y/n's foxhole that she shared with Eugene and she gestured towards the small fir tree that stood a few meters from the hole. Around the tree was strung some rope with rudimental Christmas decorations of fir cones and leaves, a few scraps of red fabric that Johnny wasn’t sure where Y/n had gotten it from.

“What is all this?” He asked, disbelief and confusion evident in his handsome features.

“It’s our Christmas tree and this…” Y/n dug into her pocket and pulled out a ragged looking lump, “is your Christmas present. I’m sorry it’s not much. It was all I could get in Bastogne when I went in at the last supply drop.” Johnny’s face softened, and he lifted his hand, brushing it gently against her frozen cheek.

“I’m sure it’s perfect.” He unwrapped the bandage material from around the gift and found a small, ceramic angel ornament inside.

Johnny's face crinkled into a smile and his eyes shone brightly as he looked down at the angel.

“Thank you, Y/n but you didn’t have to…”

“I wanted to,” Y/n interrupted, her bright eyes staring up at him through hooded lashes. Johnny had never truly appreciated her beauty until now. The way her hair hung down framing her face, her nose scrunched as she laughed at jokes that George would tell her, the way her forehead creased as she glared at Skip as he won another bet against her. Even now all covered in the dirt and grime of the Bois Jacque she was a picture of beauty.

“Y/n, could I ask you something?” Johnny felt himself growing nervous, his mouth felt dry and his left eye twitched as he tried to find the right words.

“Of course.”

“Well, you know as it’s Christmas… and well we might not make it through the next year… I was just wondering if I could…”

Y/n having grown impatient by Johnny stuttering, grabbed the lapel of his coat and yanked him towards her. “Yes,” she replied before placing her lips against his. The kiss was soft and full of feeling. Johnny felt himself winding his arms around her waist as Y/n fingers delved into his hair, tugging at the grimy, brown lock. Johnny normally would have felt self-conscious about his appearance but at that moment all he could think of was the woman in his arms.

When they pulled away, both couldn’t help the large smile that grew across their lips.

“Merry Christmas Y/L/N.”

“Merry Christmas Martin.”

“Hey Luz, you owe me 20 bucks,” Skip mouthed across the snowy ground to where George was sheltering in his foxhole.

“Fuck off, it’s Christmas for Christ's sake,” George grumbled, shoving his helmet further over his head to shield himself from Skip's view.

“I’d pay up if I were you, Luz. Skip owes Bull money and if you don’t pay up, he can’t pay Bull. I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of Randleman,” Malarkey confessed, looking up from his canteen of steaming coffee.

“Yeah right! Bull’s not going to do anything to me,” George’s laughter soon ceased as a large snowball hit the back of his helmet, splattering down his back and allowing the ice to penetrate his winter coat.

“That son of a bitch!”

“Pay up, Luz!” Bull’s hearty laughter could be heard from a few feet away and George sighed.

“After everything I do for you lot. All those Hershey bars I saved for you guys and this is how you repay me. Merry fucking Christmas to me.”

That was last Christmas. 1944. Amid the Ardennes, the snow created a frozen wasteland where the dead lay in shallow graves, forgotten by many.

Patty was bustling around the kitchen, clattering pots and pans while she had left Johnny in charge of decorating the tree with the children. The kids were messing around while Johnny half-heartedly dug through the box of decorations until his fingers brushed against something smooth, familiar, cold to the touch. He pulled the ornament free and with a shaky breath he ran his thumb over the dusty angel. It still had mud crusted to one of its wings and the other hung slightly lopsided where Webster and his clumsy hands had dropped it in Haguenau. Johnny didn’t realise he was crying until Patty laid her hand on his shoulder making him jump.

“Oh Johnny, it’s beautiful. Here let me hang it on the tree,” she reached forward for it but Johnny snatched his hand away.

“No!” He snapped, “Don’t touch it… don’t…” Patty looked a little hurt but she knew her husband didn’t mean it out of malice. He was hurting more than he’d ever admit and she knew the war had been hard on them all but Johnny would never talk about who he’d lost.

“You got it Belgium, didn’t you?” She asked, trying to coax her husband to share his feelings.

“Yes,” he whispered, looking down through blurry eyes at the simple figure. “A friend gave it to me.”

Patty nodded, moving around to crouch in front of her husband.

“Well, how about we put it on the tree? To remember him by. I know he meant a lot to you.”

Johnny stood, moving across the room in slow motion. As the ornament connected with the branch of the tree, it felt like the whole world stopped for just a moment. He was back in the forest, snow covering his helmet as he walked hand in hand with Y/n. Her cold fingers wrapped tightly in his palm, her laughter wafting through the trees.

Patty’s hand slipped into Johnny’s and she squeezed it gently, resting her head on her husband's shoulder she hummed, “I would have liked to have met him.”

Johnny cocked his head to look at his wife, “I wish you had too. They were taken from me far too soon.”

The couple stood silently side by side, their children playing at their feet while music from the radio drifted around them. Johnny felt a single tear trail down his cheek.

“Goodbye, Y/n.”

Tags: @georgieluz @iceman-kazansky @yeahcurrahhe-e @lieutenant-speirs @sharpshootershifty @liberteuniteegalite @msmercury84 @mayhem24-7forever @blvestxr @dustyjumpwjngs @theflyingfin @jump-wings @kafka-ohdear @kmc1989 @mads-weasley @docroesmorphine @liptonsbabe @lena-basilone @sweetxvanixlla @hesbuckcompton-baby @ronsparky @allthingsimagines @whollyjoly @bucky32557038ww2 @panzershrike-pretz @xxluckystrike @malarkgirlypop @hanniewinnix

[sunflowerabyss]

Charms of Fate: Chapter 9

Paring: Remus Lupin x Fem!Professor!Reader

Series Masterlist

Plot: Amidst the echoes of a bygone era, you return to Hogwarts years after parting ways with Hogwarts. What begins as a journey fueled by nostalgia transforms into an unexpected reunion with Remus Lupin, now a Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. As the past intertwines with the present, the two former classmates navigate the complexities of grief, the resurgence of friendship, and the unwritten chapters of their shared history in this tale of rediscovery and the magic that binds them together.

Warnings: so. much. fluff.

______________________________________________________

You had signed up to go to Hogsmeade as a chaperone. You were regretting it. Minerva and you had walked around the village, looking in different shops and things to buy for friends and family for Christmas. You had spent a particularly long time picking out a gift for the DADA professor, to which Minerva gave you a knowing look. You ignored that meddlesome old woman.

As the sun started to set, the two of you walked in the wake of the students, making your way back to Hogwarts. The day had been long, and your feet were feeling the strain.

"Oh, Minerva, I swear, I may never volunteer for this again," you grumbled, massaging your sore feet.

Minerva chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ah, the perils of a field trip. Did you not consider bringing more comfortable shoes?"

You rolled your eyes. "I thought these would be fine. Turns out, I was wrong."

"Learning from experience, my dear," she teased. "Perhaps next time, you'll be better prepared."

You sighed dramatically. "Maybe I'll just stick to the cozy confines of my room. Who needs outdoor excursions anyway?"

Minerva laughed heartily. "I'm sure the students would disagree. But, fear not, we are almost home."

You couldn't help but smile, despite the discomfort. "Thank Merlin for that. I might need a week to recover from today."

Minerva's eyes glinted mischievously as she walked beside you, leaning over to you in a hushed whisper, "Well, my dear, if your feet are truly in agony, perhaps Professor Lupin could lend a helping hand."

You couldn't believe your ears and stumbled for a moment, genuinely shocked that someone as dignified as Professor McGonagall would make such a suggestion. "Professor McGonagall!" you exclaimed, your face flushing with embarrassment. "I… I can't believe you just said that!"

Minerva pulled back with a smirk, walking ahead, and ordering students to make sure to be in their dorms before curfew. You stood dumbfounded for a moment before recollecting yourself, heading inside the castle.

Like muscle memory, you headed straight towards Remus' classroom, where he had said he was going to hole himself up in so he could finish up grading papers and get ahead on lessons for after the break.

You knocked twice before letting yourself in. Remus stood by the window, watching the sunset. He turned as you drew near, setting your bags down on an empty desk.

"Busy today?" he asked.

You groaned. "You have no idea. My feet are killing me. Feels like they're gonna fall off."

Remus chuckled. "Yeah, I heard those trips can be grueling. Surprised Minnie can still keep up."

"I think she put some kind of charm or something on her shoes, who knows. Maybe I should look into it. Though, I highly doubt going back to Hogsmeade all day is in my future."

Remus smiled, nodding to your bags. "What did you buy?" he asked.

"Oh, just some gifts for family and friends," you replied, shrugging your shoulders.

You reached into your bag and pulled out a small, carefully wrapped package, adorned with festive paper and a ribbon.

"I got you a little something for Christmas," you said, handing him the gift. "Figured I give it to you since I won't see you until the beginning of the next term."

Remus looked pleasantly surprised. "Oh, you didn't have to get me anything. Thank you."

He unwrapped the gift with a smile, revealing a beautifully crafted leather-bound notebook. "It's a journal," you explained. "I thought you could use it to jot down your thoughts, or maybe it could be handy for lesson planning."

Remus ran his fingers over the smooth leather cover, his eyes reflecting gratitude. "This is thoughtful, thank you. I'll make good use of it, I promise."

"Oh!" you exclaimed, reaching into another bag. You put a hefty amount of chocolate bars on his desk. "I figured you were still a chocolate fiend, given that night in the kitchen and all."

Remus couldn't help but laugh, genuine and heartfelt. "You know me too well. Thank you, really. This is sweet of you."

Remus grinned and held up a finger towards you, motioning for you to wait a moment. He walked over to his desk, opened the drawer, and carefully retrieved a wrapped gift. "Here you go," he said, handing it over with a gentle smile.

You accepted it with curiosity, tearing open the wrapping paper to reveal a muggle book. Pride and Prejudice. "I remembered you mentioning this one during our conversation a while back. Thought you might enjoy it," Remus explained.

Your eyes lit up with delight, touched by his thoughtful gesture. "A while back? Do you mean fifteen years ago? Remus, this is perfect! Thank you so much," you said, genuinely grateful for the gift.

In response, he chuckled warmly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of happiness and a hint of bashfulness. "Well, I remembered you mentioning your love for literature, and I thought this might be a good addition to your collection."

Grateful for the thoughtful present, you couldn't resist the impulse to express your appreciation. With a beaming smile, you pulled him into a spontaneous hug. Remus, though slightly taken aback, soon embraced you in return. His arms wrapped around you securely, and you could feel the steady rise and fall of his chest. There was a tenderness in the way he held you, as if cherishing the moment.

Remus nuzzled into the crook of your neck, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine. The softness of his touch as he petted your hair was both comforting and intimate.

As Remus embraced you, a subtle but distinctive scent emanated from him, creating an olfactory tapestry that spoke of warmth and comfort. The earthy undertones, reminiscent of damp soil and fallen leaves, seemed to linger in the air, grounding you in the moment. Intertwined with this was a faint whisper of chocolate, like a mug of hot cocoa on a chilly winter's day.

As you leaned into his hug, the unique blend of scents became more pronounced. There was a comforting familiarity to it, as if each fragrance was a chapter in the story of his life. The subtle musk, not overpowering but present, reflected the quiet strength that defined Remus Lupin.

As you both pulled back slightly from the hug, Remus's warm hands found their way to your face, cradling it with gentle care. His amber eyes, filled with a mixture of emotions, locked onto yours, and in that fleeting moment, you sensed an unspoken understanding between you. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, and before words could bridge the gap, Remus closed it with a tender kiss.

In that stolen moment, time seemed to suspend, allowing you both to savor the sweetness of the kiss and the shared emotions it carried. Remus's lips, soft and tender, spoke volumes about his feelings, leaving you with a sense of warmth and belonging that lingered long after the kiss had ended.

[apfel07]

So heres a first report of the Gothenburg concert (16.03.2024)

Putting it under a cut cause it's kinda long

I met the nicest people ever (one of them I even knew from Vienna omg) and I got a bunch of gifts and made some friends. If I tried to tag everyone I met I would definitely forget a few people, so I think you know who you are 

Jan just casually walked by with his silly headphones and everyone was very respectful and then I got to give him my calculator and he signed it (my calculator has a picture of him I drew and it says “Jan Peteh is proud of you” and he said he confirms that statement)

Someone else asked him how he does his hair and he kinda just said: “I don’t really brush it”

Again, I talked to the NICEST people

Had some issues with the no bag rule, but it worked out

Got a very nice spot in about 4th row on Kris side

They played ASTP and ngvot for soundcheck and then Bojan left and all the others played a part of Everybody’s Waiting

The first opener was sooo good, they were such a nice person and the songs were so good! They also played a swedish cover of Carpe Diem and when everyone did the Ah Ah and the tagatagatagatata they were so happy it was adorable

The second opener was also very good, I just missed a lot of it because I got a really bad stomach ache

I loved all their outfits, but Kris sweater was especially slay, it had really cool lace sleeves and I also looved Jure’s outfit

Tokio was so fucking good. Bojan started singing it on my side and he basically sung at me and when he got a tiara he immediately put it on Kris

Okay the songs will be out of order I’m too tired to do them in order

After Demoni, Bojan asked if we let all our demons out and then he specifically said: “Nacko did you let all your demons out?” and when Nace said yes, Bojan grabbed a Shark hat, said Nace deserves it, then put it on him. Then he said that Nace looked gorgeous and Nace said “Do I?” and they giggled and it was the cutest thing ever holy

One girl had a sign saying she made a choreography for Umazane Misli and so Bojan let her go on stage so we could all see her and her choreography was so so cool

During Umazane Misli, when Bojan did the karaoke (which was so cool by the way, so many people sang in swedish and other languages, I loved it) Vita filmed Jan and Nace on stage and they really posed for the camera, giggling and playing each others instruments. Then they proceeded to shuffle around synchronized and then Kris joined in.

Bojan’s swedish pronunciation is… interesting, he tried so hard to pronounce Göteborg but failed repeatedly even after people told him how

There were a lot more little BoNace moments, I loved it so much

There are definitely so many more things that happened, but I am too tired to think of them right now, I might update this tomorrow.

But yeah this concert was so fucking amazing, I will never get over it.

[ms-kio]

Demon(slayer?)hood

Izuku Midoriya, Eri X Demon Slayer! 2296 Words

“Remember, boy. If you see me, run. I’m only about four hundred years old then. I will not recognize you.” The six-eyed demon commanded his pupil, the only sign of his aging being the silver white hair streaking his ponytail.

Izuku bowed, “Hai Sensei!” He said, the necklace gifted to him bouncing off his chest as he righted himself.

“And hide that necklace.” Kokushibo reminded Izuku. “Having one of my eyes on you is an immediate trial in the Demon Slayer Corps, and potential execution.” The boy nodded, tucking the jewelry under his shirt.

“I’ll only use it as a last resort.” Next to Izuku was a little girl, Eri. Since Overhaul had been imprisoned and not killed, she had no faith in her safety anywhere in this world. She was eager to step through the rip in reality behind her, to leave forever.

Kokushibo stood up, walking around his desk and embracing the two silently. He didn’t ask if they wanted to turn back, or change their minds. All he did was shove them through the portal, turning to face a mask, and a pair of golden eyes.

~ ~ ~

Izuku immediately turned, frantically looking for Eri. Where was she? He drew his Scorpion Stinger, wandering into the forest at the sound of rustling leaves. “You! Bow to the power of the Great Inosuke!” Now, Izuku knew someone named Katsuki Bakugou, and immediately recognized the attitude.

“Fight me!” The greenette shouted back. “Whoever wins has to help the other with one request!”

The boy paused for a minute, as if not believing what he was hearing. “Finally! Someone wants to fight me! Bring it on!” Inosuke howled, charging Izuku. The youngest of the Midoriya Family expertly sheathed his sword, entering a grappling match with his new friend.

Eventually, Midoriya decided to end their match, taking a deep breath in. ‘Broccoli Breathing, Friendship Bat!’ Izuku landed a roundhouse kick on Inosukes skull, causing the boy to collapse, his boar mask falling off and revealing one of the prettiest faces he had ever seen. But not as pretty as Eri’s, of course. Izuku picked Inosuke up, along with his mask, carrying him down the path towards the Final Selection, which Kokushibo told him he needed to attend if he wanted assistance from the demon slayers in any significant way.

Izuku had planned on just living a quiet life with Eri as his pseudo sister, but now with her missing -most likely separating in the portal- he needed all the help he could get.

: : :

About an hour later, Izuku had taken a break from carrying Inosuke, stopping by a river to bathe himself. The water was cold at first, but felt nice against his scars. Scars he had earned in only his first year of hero training.

The boy had given up heroism after the year was over. It had become too much for him, and he wanted to preserve himself for the people who he loved; Every inch of unscarred flesh, and every bone left unshattered in his body. He’d given OFA to Aizawa-sensei to give to students of his choosing, teaching the man how to separate the quirks and transfer them individually with Quirk Pass and how to use them over the summer. However, Aizawa had decided to have Izuku keep Danger Sense and Black Whip, being one of the few who knew of Izuku's plans to enter a world of demons, with a little girl to protect.

They had delivered the news in a last minute fashion to his classmates (aside from Bakugou), only telling them that he would be leaving, and not coming back. Izuku had cried when he told them, but he didn’t regret it. He couldn’t bear to look at the world he lived in any longer, cloaking disdain for it every minute of every day he was allowed to let his thoughts stew.

And what better place to go than Kokushibos own world? A place he might be able to find something familiar without wishing it wasn’t there.

Izuku was so wrapped up in his thoughts that he hadn't noticed Inosuke join him in the river until now, quiet and with his back turned as he washed himself. His mask and clothes were on the riverbank with Izuku's belongings, however, they weren't folded like the greenette’s was.

The duo continued to respectfully ignore each other until the hour was up, when they both left the river to dry and get dressed.

“Inosuke-san.” Midoriya spoke up after a minute, drawing the boy's attention. “Are you alright?” Inosuke paused for a minute, before sparkling and answering.

“Yup!” The bluette replied. “I was being quiet because creatures usually don’t like to talk while they are vulnerable, or their scars are present.”

Izuku smiled, then grinned. “Thank you Inosuke. By the way, what is your full name?” He asked.

“Hashibira! Hashibira Inosuke! What is your name, person-I-owe-a-favor-to?” Hashibira asked in turn, still sparkling.

“Midoriya Izuku.” The boys sparkling intensified, causing Izuku to shield his eyes. “Tone it down, will you?” The sparkling went down, and Izuku was able to see again. “My little sister went missing. She has pale blue hair and red eyes. Would you look for her when we part ways?”

“Fine! I will find your sister! You can count on it!”

~ ~ ~

Eri opened her eyes, looking around. Where was she? Where was Izuku?!

Suddenly, the horned girl heard the strike of a biwa, and her surroundings changed. She was on a tatami mat floor, in a room that had walkways and stairs on the ceiling and walls, appealing to have infinite surfaces in every direction. "W-where am I?" She asked quietly, too confused to be scared. "You are in the Infinity fortress, young one." A femenine voice replied. Up on a raised platform, a woman holding a biwa looked down at Eri. "Tell me girl. Are you human? Can you walk in the sunlight?" Eri nodded, hesitantly looking around. The woman struck her biwa again, teleporting next to Eri, causing her to jump a little. "Sit, girl. What is your name?" Eri sat down obediently next to the woman,"My name is Eri Aizawa."

~ ~ ~

Nakime glanced at the girl, noticing the exhaustion on her face. "Come, girl." She said, putting her biwa down. "You look tired, you can lie on my lap." The pale blue haired girl cast her a thankful look, accepting Nakimes offer and almost immediately falling soundly asleep, in what looked like the first time in days.

Not an hour later though, Nakime sensed the Upper Moons. They were granted permission by Muzan to enter whenever they pleased, much to her irritation, so Muzan allowed her to kick them out after 24 hours if they were too bothersome. Kokushibo and Akaza were never a problem, Daki and Gyutaro mostly minded their own business, but the other three could get annoying as hell. It was even worse when Doma and Akaza were in the same area, she always had to clean up their messes. Though, she really couldn't blame the ladder.

Kokushibo was the first to reach Nakime and the sleeping girl, much to her thankfulness, who seemed to catch on to the situation and went to quiet the loud ones. Namely Doma, but the others too. Roughly 15 minutes later, the others arrived.

They were all quiet, much to Nakimes temporary relief, until Doma opened his mouth. "Aw! How cute!" He said quietly, to everyone's surprise. But, he wasn't quiet enough. The girl jumped, clutching onto Nakimes kimono in fear, snapping awake instantly. The biwa demon glared at the blonde, placing a hand on the girl's shaking form.

"Doma, you fool." Akaza hissed. "Kokushibo said to be quiet." The demon promptly decapitated Doma with his hand, veins bulging.

"I was just trying to be nice!" Doma protested.

Nakimes anger had been steadily rising, but immediately simmered down when the girl stopped shaking, standing up and timidly approaching the decapitated head. The gore didn't seem to bother her as blood dripped onto her feet, proceeding to hold the head up to Domas' still standing body. "H-here you go sir." She said quietly, the demon taking his head and putting it back on his head.

"Why thank you little girl!" He said. No longer trying to be quiet, but not loud either. The girl quickly zipped behind Kokushibo, clutching his hakama pant leg as she eyed the other demons cautiously.

~ ~ ~

Kokushibo looked down at the little girl, giving her a questioning look as she returned his gaze. It was silent for a moment as they had a small staring contest, until she wrapped her arms around his legs. "You look like you need a hug." She said, as she closed her eyes and pressed her face into the side of his thigh. The demon's stoic demeanor broke as a small smile graced his face, placing a hand on the girl's head. A calm, peaceful sensation washed over Kokushibo as he ruffled the girl's hair, his eyes falling closed in a happy manner, his smile widening ever so slightly. But, the moment was ruined when the duo heard the metallic clang of one of Domas' fans clattering to the ground.

Kokushibo almost felt bad for his second.

~ ~ ~

As Akaza turned around to face Kokushibo, he saw something he never thought he would ever see in his life. 'Kokushibo is smiling. Upper Moon One is fucking smiling.' Using his compass, Akaza sensed Doma was about to turn around and say something stupid, so he quickly slapped a hand over his superiors mouth, motioning to Kokushibo.

'And Doma stayed quiet. Doma is being quiet- WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON!?'

~ ~ ~

Muzan Kibutsuji was quite confused when he felt large amounts of panic, shock, and confusion from Akaza. But oddly, Upper Moon Three wasn't dying. This caused Muzans confusion to rise. He looked into Akazas head to hear: 'Kokushibo was smiling. Upper Moon One is fucking smiling.' Akaza then quickly slapped a hand over Domas mouth.

'And Doma stayed quiet. Doma is being quiet- WHAT THE FUCK IS-' And thats where Muzan left Akazas mind.

He then decided to visit Kokushibos head and felt a peaceful serenity in the demon. His eyes were closed, but he could feel a small child hugging the demon's body. From Upper Ones memories, he saw the face of a red eyed girl, with a small, barely noticeable stub of a horn. In the background, the demon king could hear Daki fawning over the girl in her head. Muzan then shifted to Doma, who was stunned to silence, almost feeling bad when the blonde dropped his fan.

~ ~ ~

Eri jumped when she heard a metallic clang, looking over to the blonde man, who seemed relatively shocked. Eri hesitantly let go of the six-eyed man's hakama, walking over and picking up his fan. "S-sir?" She stuttered out, drawing his attention. "You dropped this." The girl held up his fan, seemingly snapping him back to reality.

"Oh, thank you! I was just surprised, it's not often you see Kokushibo-dono smile." The blonde smiled, who Eri remembered his name was Doma, from when Mr. Kokushibo was telling them about his world.

She gave a small nod and hurried over to said pink-haired man, hugging his legs in a similar manner. "You also look like you need a hug." Eri said. This one was Akaza. Kokushibo had described him as one of the better ones, he wouldn't hurt her. She didn't notice Akaza giving Kokushibo a panicked look, asking for advice. The demon only nodded towards the girl's head with his own, prompting the nervous demon to pat Eri on her pale blue locks. Eri didn't notice any of this, only leaning into the demon's touch, happy for the comforting gesture.

Eri then passed out, stressed by the recent development, and light headed from the last blood draw.

~ ~ ~

Akaza panicked again, quickly catching the girl's limp body as she fell. Did he do something wrong?! He glanced around to see the other Upper Moons snickering, even Kokushibo had an amused glint in his eye. Akaza then glanced at Nakime, begging her for answers. She only smiled and gestured to her lap, Akaza quickly placing the girl with her.

"Akasa, you dolt." Daki snickered. "The kid's just tired and stressed. Don't worry your pink-haired head." Akaza sighed in relief, almost wilting. But he, and all the other Upper Moons, went ramrod straight when they sensed Muzan in the room, bowing immediately. Aside from Nakime, who simply straightened in attention.

"Originally, I was going to make her my heir, and train her to be the next Demon Queen." He stated. "However, it seems being with you six would be better for her. Teach the girl the ways of the Upper Moons, only then I will make her the new ruler of demons." Muzan then warped away, presumably returning to his office. All of the demons were shocked at this new development, Muzan was not one to give up even an ounce of his power.

"Well well well!" Doma was the first to speak up. "That is quite interesting! What should we teach her?" He asked.

"I'll teach her hand-to-hand." Akaza offered.

"Swordsmanship." Kokushibo continued.

"I'll teach her how to appear human for when she becomes a demon!" Doma said.

"I'll help with that." Daki also said. "And Gyutaro says he'll teach her about poisons. Hantengu, you and Doma can teach her psychology. And Gyokko, you and Nakime can teach her about music and craftsmanship." The lewd demon ordered, not afraid of her superiors. During this, Nakime had put the girl to bed, much to Akazas relief. He swore, if anything were to happen to her, Akaza would kill everyone in the room and then himself.

~ ~ ~

Muzan choked. What now?!

[biggerbetterbat]

WITH YOU II | [5] FROM A FRIEND

Daryl Dixon x oc!charlie reed

Summary: The group’s existence became even more challenging. If a gift from a stranger raised their suspicions, they weren’t ready for what was going to happen after storm.

Warnings: none?

Song:

Words: 4.054

A/N: Carl isn’t in love with Charlie - just a quick disclaimer if you have any doubts.

As the group walked down the worn path, fatigue weighed heavy on their shoulders, each step a struggle against exhaustion. Rick led the way, his eyes heavy with weariness but determination. The sun beat down mercilessly, casting harsh shadows across the cracked pavement. Sweat beaded on their brows, disappearing almost as soon as it appeared, leaving behind only a parched thirst that seemed impossible to bear. Their throats were dry, their stomachs empty, and there was no time to rest. But with each passing mile, hope seemed to slip further and further away, replaced by an ever-present sense of desperation.

Charlie's mind drifted back to that fateful day. They had watched helplessly as the infection spread, as Tyreese's strength waned, and as his time on this earth grew shorter with each passing moment. With tears in her eyes and a heavy heart, Michonne had raised her katana, the blade gleaming in the dim light of their makeshift shelter. Charlie had wanted to look away, to shield herself from the brutality of what was about to unfold, but she couldn't tear her eyes away, couldn't escape the harsh reality of their world. At least Michonne could pick up the weight from her shoulder and do the final stab - for the first time, Charlie could just grieve.

Then Charlie looked at Daryl's back, she felt a pang of sadness wash over her. His once warm and comforting presence now seemed distant, his silence cutting deeper than any word could. It was a void, leaving her feeling more alone than ever before. But try as she might, she couldn't reach him, couldn't break through the icy barrier. And so, she walked behind him in silence, the weight of his indifference heavy on her shoulders. Each step was a struggle, each moment filled with a longing that seemed impossible to fulfill.

"Hotter than yesterday," Gabe said. She looked at him as be appeared next to her out of nowhere.

Silence.

"I would kill for a cup of cold lemonade," he said when he didn't get the answer. "But...got to be happy for what we have. A sip of water."

"Well," Charlie said. "You're wasting it on talking."

"That's my nature," ha said. "I think that's why I became a priest. I like to talk."

"Then stop," she cut him short.

"I know you're still angry with me, and I understand why," he said.

"Good."

"I made a mistake," he nodded. "A big one. And I can't change that. But I want to make things right, Charlie."

"Good luck."

"Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."

"We've all got our debts to settle in this world, but forgiveness ain't always easy to come by," she said with a heavy heart. "You gotta earn it, just like you earn your keep out here."

The road stretched out before them like a ribbon of cracked asphalt. The air was thick with dust, carried on a hot, dry breeze that offered no relief from the relentless sun beating down upon them. Not a drop of water could be seen for miles, the ground cracked and parched beneath their feet. They were waking fast enough to not be caught, but slow enough to be mistaken with the Walkers.

As the small herd of walkers approached, the group fell into a tense silence, their movements slow and deliberate as they prepared to confront the oncoming threat. Each member of the group knew the importance of conserving energy, of not wasting a single ounce of strength in the face of danger. With weapons drawn, they moved forward with caution, their eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of movement. The walkers drew closer, their rotting forms swaying eerily in the hot breeze, their moans echoing through the still air.

As Charlie glanced around the group, her eyes lingered on Sasha, noting the subtle shifts in her demeanor that seemed out of place. There was a tension in Sasha's shoulders, a stiffness in movements that hadn't been there before. It was as if she was carrying a burden too heavy to bear, one that threatened to consume her from within.

Charlie couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in the pit of her stomach as she watched Sasha, her instincts telling her that something was not right.

"Sasha," Charlie tried not to scream. With a fierce cry, Sasha charged forward, her weapon raised high, ready to strike. She moved with a fluid grace, her movements honed by years of experience and survival in this unforgiving world. Each swing of her blade was precise.

"Stay in line. Flank her," Rick commanded. "Keep it controlled."

"Plan just got dicked."

Charlie found herself caught in the dangerous whirlwind of her friend's rage. Desperate to stop Sasha from making a fatal mistake, Charlie lunged forward, reaching out to grab her arm. Sasha's blade slicing through the air with deadly precision. With horror, Charlie realized too late that she was directly in its path. Time seemed to slow as the blade neared her, a sickening realization dawning upon her that she might not escape unscathed. Just as the blade was about to strike, Sasha's eyes widened in horror as she registered Charlie's presence. Charlie stood frozen in shock, her heart still pounding in her chest, the realization of how close she had come to death sinking in.

"Stop. Just get out of here," Charlie said when she grabbed her friend's arm, but the other girl just pushed her away. Sasha stumbled forward, her legs heavy with fatigue, so Charlie used the moment and pushed her best friend, kicking her weapon out of her hand. "I told you to stop."

As Sasha's firm stare bore into Charlie's soul, she braced herself for what she thought would be a confrontation, a moment of reckoning for their near-death experience. But instead of words, Sasha simply turned on her heel and walked away, her expression unreadable.

As Charlie watched Sasha walk away, a wave of understanding washed over her, mingled with a profound sense of loss. She knew that Sasha had lost her brother, that the pain of that loss weighed heavily on her heart, just as the absence of Tyreese weighed heavily on Charlie's own. But even in her grief, Charlie knew that she couldn't dwell on the past, couldn't let the pain of loss consume her - what's more, she wouldn't let her friend die.

The group stumbled upon the abandoned cars scattered along the roadside, a glimmer of hope flickered in their weary hearts. With a sense of urgency, they began to search the cars, their hands moving quickly as they rifled through the empty compartments and glove boxes. But their hopes were dashed as they found nothing but dust and bottles, the cars stripped bare of any useful supplies.

"I'm gonna head into the woods, circle back," Daryl said to Rick.

With determination burning in her chest, Charlie turned to Daryl, her voice steady despite the uncertainty that gnawed at her insides. "Can I come with you?"

"No," he almost growled at her and without even a glance, he passed her by.

Charlie felt a pang of frustration and hurt pierce through her chest. For a moment, she stood rooted to the spot, her mind swirling with a whirlwind of emotions. She couldn't understand why Daryl would push her away like this. She had thought that they were a team, that they would face their challenges together, but now she couldn't help but feel like an outsider, like her presence was unwanted and unneeded.

The group sat in the middle of the road, exhaustion weighing heavy on their shoulders like a blanket. Charlie's limbs felt heavy and sluggish as the hot sun beat down upon her. Her stomach growled with hunger, a constant reminder of the empty void. Thirst burned in her throat, a dry, parched sensation that made every swallow feel like swallowing sand. She licked her cracked lips, desperate for just a drop of water to ease the torment, but there was none to be found.

"So all we found is booze?" Tara asked.

"Yeah."

"It's not gonna help," Tara said quietly, looking at Abraham. He sat hunched over, his hands trembling as he was bringing the bottle of whiskey to his lips. His eyes, once filled with determination and fire, now appeared empty and tired.

"Yeah, he knows that," answered angry Rosita.

"It's gonna make it worse," Tara said once again.

"Yes, it is."

"He's a grown man," Charlie said. "And I don't know if things could get any worse."

"They can," Rosita said, looking past Charlie.

Charlie's heart raced as she glanced back over her shoulder, her senses on high alert for any sign of danger. In the distance, she spotted movement, a dark shape coming towards them with speed. At this point she was ready to just wait for death as she had no strength.

At first, she thought they were Walkers; however, it was even worse. A pack of rabid dogs surged forward, their eyes wild with hunger and madness. Their snarls echoed through the air, sending a chill down Charlie's spine as she realized the true nature of the threat. The group found themselves faced with a grim choice: eat or be eaten. With no other source of food in sight and the threat of starvation looming over them, they reluctantly turned to the only option available to them - and the choice felt like a full stomach.

Glenn's face had the biggest grimace of disgust, resignation, and hunger. He was battling himself to convince his own body to take the first bite.

"Bon appétit," he quipped half-heartedly. Charlie was observing his face falling in even deeper disgust than before.

"See? Not so bad, right?" Charlie said, offering him a small smile of encouragement.

"Mmm, tastes just like chicken," he quipped, though the words tasted like ash on his tongue. "Or...maybe not."

"It's not that bad."

"Who would have thought?" Glenn looked at her. "Back in the quarry you couldn't even stand next to dead squirrels. And now? Eating dogs. What happened?"

The truth was that she couldn't remember the last time her stomach was full like this. It was disgusting and morally wrong, but to be honest: what wasn't in a world they were living? Charlie just tried to forget about what she was eating and focus on the feeling it made her feel.

"Don't mention the squirrel," she warned him. "Let's just think of it as a culinary adventure," she added, waving her hand theatrically. "We're like food explorers. Anthony Bourdain would be proud."

Glenn chuckled, taking a bite of his portion. "The taste of the end of the world."

Charlie's gaze fell upon Noah, sitting alone and untouched by the meal that had sustained the rest of the group, a pang of concern tugged at her heartstrings and her light smile dropped. She could see the weight of grief and loss etched into his features, the haunted look in his eyes betraying the pain he carried within.

With determination to help him, she closed the distance that was between them and without a word, sat down close to him. "Are you another person that needs to be convinced to eat?"

"You all tried to help me," Noah said to Charlie.

"Yeah, and?"

"One of your people got killed," he said.

"People die all the time," she shrugged.

"I don't know if I'm gonna make it."

"Then you won't," she said and placed down her piece of meat. Surprise flickered across Noah's features. Of course, she wanted to help him, but she wouldn't sit and cry with him - there was no time for that. They had no place to live, no water, no food. It wasn't the time to cry after the dead ones. "Don't think. Just eat."

"But it's a dog," he grimaced.

"It's a meat," she patted his leg. "Come on. I won't carry you on my back, when you lose your strength."

He sighed and shook his head. Finally, taking a small bite of his ration.

"How's your leg?"

"Would be better without all this walking."

"I bet."

"And how are you?" Noah asked her.

As Noah's question hung in the air, Charlie's mind raced with a flurry of conflicting emotions. She knew that Noah was struggling, that his question was more than just a casual curiosity, but she wasn't sure how to respond. Should she tell him the truth, share her own fears and doubts, or should she offer a comforting lie, a reassurance that everything would be okay? She knew that words alone couldn't erase the pain and suffering they had endured, but she also knew that sometimes, a kind word could make all the difference.

"I'm good," Charlie answered. "I'm always good."

It was another long walk. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Charlie, lagging behind the others, dragged her feet with a heavy sigh, exhaustion palpable in every step. Each day seemed to blend into the next, a relentless cycle of survival and despair.

Charlie glanced around at her companions, their faces worn, mirroring her own fatigue. They had been through so much together—battles fought, losses, hope disappearing with each passing day. But now, as they pressed on, the weight of their journey bore down on him like never before.

Rick called out, slowing his pace to match Charlie's. "You okay?"

Charlie forced a weak smile, though it faltered under the weight of her weariness. "Yeah, Rick, I'm fine. Just... feeling a bit... lost, I guess."

Rick clasped Charlie's shoulder, a silent promise passing between them. "We'll find it, Charlie."

As Rick and Charlie trudged along, something in the middle of the road something- several bottles lying abandoned - reflected off the surface. Charlie's exhaustion momentarily forgotten, she quickened her pace to reach the bottles first, her heart pounding with anticipation. Rick followed close behind, his senses alert for any sign of danger.

As they approached, it became clear that the bottles were filled with water—crystal clear and untouched by the ravages of time.

FROM A FRIEND

"We don't know who left it," Rick said and caught Charlie by her arm.

"If that's a trap, we already happen to be in it," Charlie said and turned to Grimes.

The man, who was rather silent, said, "I, for one, would like to think it is indeed from a friend."

"What if it isn't? They put something in it?"

"Eugene!" Rosita called.

"What're you doing?"

"Quality assurance."

Abraham took a single step forward, but before he could react, Charlie swiftly pushed the bottle of water away from Eugene. The impact sent water splashing everywhere, drenching Eugene's entire face in an instant.

As the first drops of rain began to fall, the group erupted in laughter, their faces upturned to the sky as they welcomed the refreshing touch of the storm. Charlie and Rosita lay down on the road, their bodies warmed by the contrast of the cold water against their heated skin. The laughter echoed around them, mingling with the rhythm of the raindrops.

But as the storm intensified, a distant rumble announced the approach of thunder, its deep resonance a reminded the group that it wasn't safe to stay outside.

With the storm still raging around them, the group pressed on, their footsteps squelching in the mud as they followed Daryl towards the barn he had discovered. The wind whipped through the trees, sending branches swaying and rain cascading down in torrents, but they forged ahead, guided by the promise of shelter. As they reached the weather-beaten structure, Daryl pushed open the creaking doors, revealing a dim interior illuminated only by flashes of lightning. The group huddled inside, grateful for the respite from the relentless downpour.

The air inside the barn was musty and thick with the scent of damp hay, but it offered a temporary refuge from the elements. With weary sighs, they settled in, finding whatever dry patches they could on the rough wooden floor. Charlie lowered herself onto the dusty floor of the abandoned building, her tired muscles protesting with each movement. She settled down beside Carl, who looked up and smiled.

For a moment, they sat in companionable silence, the only sound the steady rhythm of rain against the windows.

"You seem lost in thought," Charlie remarked, breaking the silence. "Everything okay?"

Carl sighed, his expression clouding with a mixture of weariness and uncertainty. "Sometimes it feels like it's never going to end."

"It's hard to imagine a future when every day is a struggle just to survive."

"But it's worth it, right?" he asked, caressing back of his sister. "For her."

"You're right, Carl," Charlie said softly, her voice filled with conviction. "We can get through anything."

Carl offered a small smile, a flicker of hope lighting up his tired eyes. "Yeah. Yeah, we can."

With a groan Charlie laid down on the hard floor, which didn't go unseen by a certain person. "Maybe you would like to lay on my..."

"No, thank you," she cut Daryl shortly and turned her back to him. Carl looked up at the man and then at Charlie. He placed down his sister on the ground, so she could lay on her blanket, and they he laid down himself. As they lay side by side, the flickering fire casting shadows across the dimly lit room, Carl turned to Charlie, his brow furrowed with concern.

"Are you mad at Daryl? He did something to you?"

Charlie looked at the boy, her eyes drifted away from the little girl, whose back she caressed. “Why?”

"I don't know... It just seems like there's some tension between you two lately. Ever since we found Beth..."

"I'm not mad at Daryl, Carl," Charlie replied honestly, her voice tinged with regret. "I'm just... frustrated, I guess. Frustrated that we're all struggling so much."

Carl nodded in understanding, his expression sympathetic. "I get it. It's hard when everyone's under so much stress."

"Yeah," Charlie agreed with a sigh. "But I know Daryl's just doing what he thinks is best for the group, even if we don't always see eye to eye," she answered and then smiled lightly. "Do you worry about me?"

"Of course I worry about you, Charlie," he answered. "You're a special someone. I love you."

Charlie's heart swelled with emotion at Carl's words, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. It wasn't always like that between them, and she regretted this every day, but he became someone she had sworn to protect and guide through the hardships. With tears glistening in her eyes, Charlie reached out and gently ruffled Carl's hair, a tender gesture of love and acceptance. "I love you too, Carl," she murmured. "Come here."

Charlie and Carl nestled closer to each other, their fatigue finally overcoming them. With gentle snores escaping their lips, they drifted into the realm of dreams, their worries momentarily forgotten in the embrace of sleep.

It was still dark when she stirred from her sleep, senses instantly alert to the sound of the rambling doors and the guttural snarls that echoed through the room. With a jolt of adrenaline coursing through her veins, she sprang into action, her eyes darting around the dimly lit space until they landed on Daryl, struggling to close the doors against the onslaught outside.

Rushing to his side, Charlie grabbed hold of the heavy wooden doors, her muscles straining against the weight as she joined Daryl in his efforts. Soon, the rest of the group sprang into action, joining Charlie and Daryl in holding the doors closed against the growing horde. Hands gripped tightly on the handles, bodies pressed together in a united front, they braced themselves against the force of the wind and the relentless onslaught of the walkers, determined to keep them at bay no matter the cost.

Time seemed to blur as they stood together, fueled by the knowledge that they were not alone in this fight—that together, they could overcome even the greatest of challenges.

It was the morning already. As Charlie's eyes fluttered open again, she found herself stirred from her slumber by the sound of voices murmuring nearby. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, she felt something heavy on her shoulders. She tried to feel it and it turned out that a similar cloth was on her body - Daryls poncho. Then she slowly turned on her back and looked up, without getting up.

"He was tough."

"He was."

"So was she," Daryl said. "But she didn't know that."

Charlie laid still on the floor, her eyes closed as if she were still lost in the embrace of sleep. With each passing moment, she listened intently to the voices that drifted through the air, piecing together fragments of conversation as she tried to gauge the mood of her companions. Though her body remained motionless, her mind raced with thoughts and questions, a silent observer to the unfolding scene.

"Stop punishing her," Maggie said. "You think she's tough, but..."

As Charlie waited for further conversation, a sense of unease began to gnaw at her insides. The silence stretched on, broken by steps. And then, out of the corner of her eye, she saw it—a shadowy figure standing before her. Startled, Charlie looked up and found herself face to face with Maggie, her expression unreadable in the dim light of the room.

Without a word, Maggie gestured towards a small box resting on the floor beside her. Confused, Charlie's gaze flickered between Maggie and the box, her curiosity piqued by the mysterious exchange.

She met Maggie's eyes and the woman nodded towards sleeping Sasha. Charlie furrowed her brows.

As the golden hues of the setting sun bathed the world in a warm glow, Charlie found herself standing beside Sasha, their faces turned towards the horizon. Together, they watched as the sun rising, painting the sky in shades of pink, orange, and purple. With each passing moment, the colors brightened.

"Why are we here?"

"For this," she said and pointed at the horizon with her chin. "We don't have to talk if you don't want to."

"I heard it. Noah, that kid...he said he didn't know if he can make it," Sasha said. "That's how I feel."

"You're gonna make it," Charlie said. "Both of us. And Noah. We will. That's the hard part."

"I always had my brother."

"Me too," Charlie said looking at the landscape, thinking about her siblings. "They were always for me, even when I didn't want them to be," she said with shaking breath. "And I don't even know if they are buried. Sometimes every walker has their faces," she confessed. "And it's hard. But I have you...and you have me."

Sasha squeezed her hand. "I didn't know..."

Charlie just shook her head before speaking again.

"Maggie gave it to me," she said and opened the box, seeing a pink fairy ballerina, changing the subject.

As Charlie carefully opened the box, her heart filled with anticipation. Inside, nestled among a few trinkets and mementos, she found a small music box—a precious relic from a bygone era. But as she released the winding key and waited with bated breath, there was only silence. The music box remained still. They laughed as it was still broken.

"I guess it's like us," Sasha said.

"Broken."

Both young women fell into a laughter.

"Hey. Hi."

In an instant, the jovial atmosphere evaporated, replaced by tense silence as their laughter died out and smiles faded from their faces. Like a coiled spring, the group's instincts kicked in, and they swiftly raised their guns, pointing them at the man who had suddenly appeared before them.

The air crackled with tension as they sized up the stranger, their expressions hardened and wary. Every nerve in their bodies was on edge, ready to react at the slightest sign of danger.

"I didn't mean to interrupt," he said. "Good morning. My name is Aaron. I know, stranger danger. But I'm a friend. I'd like to talk to the person in charge," he explained with a smile. "Rick, right?"

"How do you know?"

"Why?"

"I have good news," he nodded with even wider smile.

[vivisviolets]

hey, i hope you're well. i'm here for your new game!

my initials are 'efa', she/her and i prefer male.

my favorite things are gelato, brownie milkshake, monster high g3, the weeknd and beach. ❤️‍🩹

EFA ⛳️☘️🍂 ♧ ◦ Ace of Wands, Four of Swords, Seven of Cups (reversed), Two of Cups (bottom of the deck) ♧ ◦ 111, 222, 1212, (december birthday?), Sagittarius/Aries/Pisces/Taurus/Leo/Aquarius/Libra placements, fixed sign energy, football/sports, big smile, glittery/sparkly eyes, home, channeled song, Rolling in the Deep - Adele

♧ ◦ Hello efa! I can already tell, that this will be an interesting reading~ so as always take what resonates! I see your person being very into sports- athletics, this could be them being an actual player of some sport or just a watcher of them (I'm hearing football really heavily,- they may even be euro/from a different country then wherever you are)- either way!! heavy athlete energy is coming through, which is a big part of who they are- they have a very *focused* personality and a heavy motivation drive towards their goals... this is the energy I'm picking up! But let me dive deeper because outside looking in this appears to be a very traditionally masculine figure (and maybe you like that!! but I want to offer as many different aspects for your person as I can!) Oh my goodness, Two of Cups!! I just drew out the cards, this is so sweet- this will really be a partnership, I'm seeing clearly them being the Ace of Wands, and them becoming attracted to you energetically when you are in your Four of Swords energy!- However I want to make note that there may be some strife within your relationship, with this Seven of Cups(reversed)- I'm picking up an environment around your person, where there is some sort of "normality" when it comes to cheating/infidelity (again they may be in a competitive group of people, where teamwork is not so much a factor, as much as infighting is- a messy group for sure)- but your person, they will not be a part of that energy, I promise you. I would not be doing this reading if this situation were to be hurtful to you ♡. I see a test is going to come up where they'll actually have to take a stand against this energy/group of people, I see them having to tell off a 3rd party/someone trying to be a 3rd party and get with them when they are already into you- and it will be their attraction to you that will fuel their strength to leave this group after putting their foot down. because they want to be loyal to you, and only you, that is important to them, more important than who they were hanging around with who could have gotten them somewhere- they will betray their drive to be the greatest, if it means not betraying you. Ok final details! I understand if anything I described is not attractive to you, but please know that you two will have shared interests!! I'm hearing in particular music taste, a bit like that 500 Days of Summer scene ("I love The Smiths" and also "-I love Ringo Star-", "Nobody loves Ringo Star!", "That's what I love about him!"), I see the relationship becoming like a song when you two share your music with each other (you could even say you make beautiful music together- what huh👀), the good times go fast like a supercut of pure domestic bliss, and you two become each other's best friend! I see them loving to gift you things that you love and that you chat about with them- even if you feel shy about sharing certain interests you have, they want to hear about them so they can do something to contribute to them!! (the type to not *fully* understand but be like- "oh ok dear😊❤️!!" and then buy something for you based on what you told them.) They've never felt this serious about someone- and you are the one. and they want to grow that connection/understanding. They want to bring you so many moments of joy (someone here likes Vance Joy), straight out of a coming-of-age movie. and they already see you as their life partner/wife omg😭❤️. they want you at their shoulder's-side when they're around their buddies (because they love you that dearly and also because they want to show off just how amazing your personality is- like, you're amazing! They got such a catch lol), they want you to have dinner with their family- because they're looking forward/planning on building a whole life with you. I'm hearing this will feel like a second phase of "growing up" for both of you. and while it's different, and new, and uncharted, it isn't scary! because you have each other to explore this new phase in life with ❤️.

*i hope this was helpful my darling ♡~ consider leaving a tip on my Patreon if you enjoyed, or follow and become a violet~ doesnt matter to me tho :>~ sending you on your wayyyy, bye bye!!*

[blah-blah-bea]

I first saw them with Ice Nine Kills on Nov. 2021 at that time only really knew one song from them but also had seen the TDOPOM music video)

Then I saw them on March 2022 with Underoath.

On August 2022,(this was for the tour to promote Tour of the Concrete Jungle) they came to a venue near me and hung out after the show with other fans and the band came out. At the time I had only really know what the singer looked like so without knowing the rest of the crew had came out a million times to load the trailer 😂

When Noah came out I was able to say Hi and take a photo with him. Even though he was holding all his shit he was kind enough to take photos with some fans.

I then went and saw them on November 2022 in Milwaukee and again a day later in Chicago for their Tour of the Concrete Jungle. I was able to get VIP for both shows. The first VIP I asked them if they think they could out do themselves for any other tour (which, they fucking did somehow). I don't remember his answer exactly cause it kinda wasn't related to the question 😅

That show I was able to give Noah a crown during their song "Concrete Jungle" 👑

Noah taking the crown (video from my POV)

Noah taking the crown (Video from fan POV)

The next VIP in Chicago I asked if they still had the crown and Noah said that he did and it was on the bus (He also could have just said that cause he didn’t wanna upset a fan, so who actually knows 🤷🏻‍♀️) and I was able to print off the photograph of him taking the crown so I asked them if they would sign it later (which they did) I also gave them a gag gift just to make them laugh of the edited photo of Noah as Jesus and I put it on a candle and when they saw it they laughed and Noah said something along the lines of “It’s me as Jesus” *shows the crowd* “As if my ego wasn’t already big”. I also gave them photos that a friend drew for them and they said they liked them. Seems like a lot but it went by fast. At least in my head it did.

After that show Noah and Bryan came out and talked with people and signed stuff. One of my friends was able to give a sticker to Noah that she bought for him and she was able to show him her Bad Omens Tattoo. I got a photo with him again but I look like trash so I’ve never posted it.

Then I saw them again for Concrete Forever.

So yes, I’ve seen them a good amount of times. Nothing crazy.

Was he shy? I’d say kinda. I think when interacting with fans you have to step out of that, even if you are shy in general. Just like when he’s on stage, he has to step out of it to preform the way he does.

He was kind and sweet in person. He tried his best to talk with everyone who wanted to talk. He took pictures and signed peoples stuff. We made fun of him for wearing shorts and sandals when it was cold as shit in Chicago. He joked back. It was a good time. 😊

[totallynotlocomocoenthusiast]

You’re my muse (Namora x Reader) :))

 A/N: Before I joined the service one of my favorite jobs was sewing with my elders, they passed it down to me and taught me how to make the ofu’s that our village loved the most, my main projects that the elders trusted me with was matching couples ofu’s, because like many cultures Samoans love to match with their lovers. I feel like I use way too many commas so please bear with me.

I scribbled one of my many sketches as I laid in my hammock at the hanging market, the fine dresses and capes flowing freely in the current, business like always was flowing freely as usual, mother's commissioning clothes for their children, young women shopping for fine dresses, lovers buying gifts for their significant others. I quickly tied up my sketches, stowing it away securely before collecting the empty hangers and change, tucking it into a satchel before tying it to my back to make my swim home. I loved swimming back to my home, greeting elders and playing with children. I lived in a small home, tucked away in the city with a small ‘tailors’ sign outside of the post of my door where my business is held besides the markets. I drew back my curtain as I swam in, setting the money down before putting away the hangers. There were rolls of fabric stacked neatly against the walls with baskets of beads, jewels and fine things, a mannequin and a table filled with needles, thread and a thin blade. I signed, picking up the bag, swimming to my quarters in the next room, emptying the bag in a thick vase, and shutting it tightly with rope. I took a deep inhale before laying down on my bed, looking up at the ceiling as I dreamt of new things to create.

Sewing was a trade passed down from my mother, from her mother, and hers and so on. My mother told me my work would excel the most when I had a muse, and my muse was my best friend, my childhood friend, someone who would just see me as a friend. Namora and I had met when we were little, in the hanging market in fact, it seems just like it was yesterday we were just kids swimming around the market causing trouble and playing soldiers. It was almost everyday she would return and play with me, and as we grew up together I was blessed to see her grow into the strong woman she is. As we grew my mother said it would be best I use her as a practice model to help with my sewing, and so everyday she would stay with me for a few hours to hold still and let me poke her with needles and drape her in fine cloth, then after she would let me come along with her and watch her fight and train to be the best soldier she could be, I had always admired Namora, her hair is beautiful and long, her strength is unwavering, and her smile is just so dazzling. At first it was little things, making little accessories for her here and there, saving some fruit for her as I swam back home from the market. Then realizing how much I wanted to be around her at all times, following her as she invited me to her sparking matches, getting fussy about her wearing something from another seamstress, swimming up to Ku’Ku’ikan’s cave to wait for Namora to be released to come home. The worst was the sketches, it was the base that all of my creations start off of, but as I made a dress I simply would draw Namora in something that I felt would accentuate her beauty best. It was embarrassing to be drawing her all times of the day, i couldn't help myself, I grabbed a new parchment and some charcoal before sitting up in my bed to draw a new sketch. It was a long one shoulder dress, to the side of the paper I drew her adorned in jade with a few lionfish quills to decorate her bun as I moved back to the dress, she loved flowing materials, and I loved how well they flowed around her body. I added swipes around the bodice to act as ropes to make a macrame cage around the bodice I signed looking at the picture before picking up another parchment to draw her again. I’m in love with the general, I know I shouldn’t be, she’s far too important to be tangled up in the likes of me, I had no name that held the kind of power hers did, I was just some seamstress that met her at the right place at the right time. My heart ached as I drew her again, seeing those striking eyes pierce my soul as I yearned for her. I wish I was strong, I wish I were born a man so that I could have won her heart in battle, I wish I could tell her how I felt, I wish, I sighed looking down as the drawings floated around my room. ‘I wish’ a loud rhythmic knock sounded at the door as my ears perked up, quickly snatching up the parchment and shoving it under my pillow before straightening my dress and going out to greet my favorite person. Pulling back the curtain I saw my Namora, leaning against my workbench still dressed in armor as she untied the crown of lionfish around her bun, “It’s always good to see you Y/N,” she smiled opening her palms to greet me, I smiled returning the gesture as I felt her arms wrap around me in a warm embrace, “how was your day friend?” I reveled in her touch as I felt her arms around me, her question falling on deaf ears as I heard her laugh, “Long day huh friend?” She joked as I nodded, holding her for as long as I could, I laughed awkwardly as I regrettably pulled away, “Today has drained me Namora, please come in, sit with me I’ll prepare you some fruit!” 

We both sat together, eating fruit, passing a jug of wine between each other as we’d take a swig, before passing it back to each other. I admired the way the light shone through the curtains, illuminating her face as she smiled, “I have a new design for you,” her ears perked up at my statement, “I swear if you stick me again with one of your needles I won’t be your model anymore.” I laughed passing the wine back to her, “I promise I won’t,” we both stood up clearing the space as I shut the blinds firmly, hanging a sign on my door labeled “fitting in progress” I turned back to see Namora stripping off her armor, putting it to the side. I swallowed hard trying to advert my eyes as I made my way to my fabrics, picking up a roll of soft sun yellow fabric, holding it up to her check, “I think this one compliments you best Namora.” I watched her hold her arms out, “then by all means Y/N work your magic.” I pulled out a few yards, leaving the roll to fall to the floor as I wrapped the fabric around her body, cutting and pinning out a shape to the dress. I would steal a glance at Namora here and there, watching her catch my eye and smile. We talked about her work, how she was proud of her soldiers, how her and Attuma had gotten along as leaders. She’d tell me about Ku’Ku’Ikans paintings and how they grow more colorful by the day and how beautiful the cave had glowed. In return I would tell her about the newest gossip at the market, who’s seeing who and the new customers I’ve gained, it wasn’t as flashy as Namora’s stories but she seemed to enjoy them, and would ask questions every now and then. “So I was thinking,” I spoke as I pinned around her bodice, “Macrame!” I whisper shouted with a large smile on my face. She smiled as she shook her head, “you’ve sure got a kick for macrame don’t you?” I giggled, swimming back to admire the figure in front of me, the fabric hugged her body perfectly, the orange hue accenting her skin perfectly as the dress flowed and ebbed in the current. My heart ached looking at her, she’s the most beautiful thing I had ever laid my eyes on, I watched as she felt the fabric, smiling softly admiring the dress, “You look beautiful,” I cooed as she looked up, 

“Yeah I think the dress looks beautiful too!” My heart fell as she misheard me, swimming up to her to remove the dress carefully as to not prick her, “You’ve outdone yourself again Y/N, another satisfied customer!” She smiled as she put her armor back on, fishing through her pockets to try and pay me, “You know your money is not good here Namora.” I spoke as I hung the dress on a mannequin, pinning it down, “Please, you waste so much money on me.” She tried to put a satchel of money in my hands but u refused, pushing them back to her, “If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t be half the seamstress I would be today. Please,” I wrapped my hands around her hands, “I have a dress for every occasion because of you, you know that right.” She smirked looking into my eyes, I felt my heart skip a beat, “A lady like you deserves a new dress every day of the week.” I wanted nothing more then to hold her tightly, to feel her lips against mine, to feel those strong arms wrap around my waist, “You spoil me too much Y/N,” she laughed tying her headdress back on, “I have to be up early tomorrow,” I nodded grabbing some fruit, tying it up in a net and attaching it to her belt, “I’ll see you tomorrow Namora!” I smiled watching that beautiful smile creep up on her lips as she gave me one final hug for the night, savoring any moment I could with her before pulling back to swim home, waving sweetly as she swam away. 

My heart ached as I closed my blinds, looking around the empty room, our sun down down the room was lit by bio-luminescent lanterns at the corners of the wall I swam to the mannequin, fitting it fully before pausing, regrettably I wrapped my arms around the mannequin and held it closely, pretending it was her. I breathed in holding it tightly, ‘this is pathetic’ I thought to myself as I felt my chest hurt and my heart ache. I couldn’t confess to her, I shouldn’t, I didn’t want to ruin the years we grew up together, I didn’t want to take the risk of her rejection. Tears welled in the corners of my eyes as I held onto the mannequin, it was my biggest fear, the thought of her rejecting me and even worse watching her fall in love with someone else, ‘It wouldn’t hurt to confess,’ I muddled the idea feeling the soft fabric under my fingertips, ‘how would I even tell her?’ I let go of the mannequin to go back to my room, pulling out my parchments as I stumbled upon a sketch I hadn’t made yet. It was a two piece dress with a racer back and a feathered shawl, I mulled over the dress, it’s not like the ones I usually make her, it was extravagant and regal. ‘It’s a clear sign to show her just how I feel about her’. I breathed in deeply before pinning the parchment on the wall and got to work. 

First I had to make the first part of the dress which was the main body, this part was hard because in my sketches its more a form fitting dress so trying to fit it to her was a challenge without being obvious that it was a courting gift for her. “Oh this is beautiful,” Namora cooed as she slipped on the dress, “You look stunning Namora,” I patted her shoulder as I strung on the racer back with carved beads on the back, “So what’s this one for Y/N?” she asked as she felt the interlocking patterns on the bodice, “Oh,” I tried to think of an answer, “I don’t make enough racer-backs so I just thought I could use the practice?” I watched a sweet smile grace her face as she replied, “Well I can’t wait to wear this one out its beautiful.” I laughed awkwardly trying to change the subject as I unzipped the dress letting her change, “Well this one has a lot of details so I’d just be best to forget about it you know?” I quickly folded the dress putting it away as she finished changing I coudn’t help but stare, she was just so tone so strong it was hard to focus on anything else sometimes, I swallowed hard trying to distract myself as she finished dressing sitting down with a satisfied smile pulling a net of fruit out of her satchel as she waved to me, “Come and eat Y/N,” she pulled her knife out to portion out our food as we sat and ate, “So Namora,” I swallowed a bite of ripe fruit, “Anything new on the home front?” I watched her rest her head on her hand as she thought of how to best answer my question she clicked her tongue before looking to me, “I don’t want to alarm you but we’re getting dangerously close to war.” I gasped leaning in my brows furrowed, “You’ll be alright though right?” I would never forgive myself if she were ever hurt or even killed in battle, “I’m too strong to be killed don’t worry.” sitting together I leaned in putting my hand on her shoulder, “Please just be careful,” she cooed taking my hand, “Don’t worry about me I’ll be fine. If anything I worry about you,” my heart skipped a beat as she continued to hold my hand, “You have to take care of yourself too you know. You can’t stay here cooped up in your shop by yourself.” I felt her hand grasp mine as I felt her rough hands, “I-” I couldn't properly form all I wanted to say to her, I don’t think there was even words to exist how I felt about her. “If you keep your mouth open like that someone would think you're trying to filter feed now,” she chuckled taking a bite of her fruit as I closed my mouth trying to put up a smile as she gave this cute knowing look, “You know I could always set you up with someone!” she smiled as she began to cut up another fruit from her net, it hurt hearing her say that, ‘maybe we could go out?’ I thought mulling over the thought of saying then looking to her and watching her cut up her fruit, passing half to me in a small dish with a smile on her face as I took a bite, “I don’t know,” I chuckled, “I don’t think I’m ready to date someone Namora.” shaking my head nervously as she took a bite, “Come on there has to be someone here in Talokan you like!” my ears felt hot as she poked, “Oh so there is someone?” she smiled laughing, “You like someone awe Y/N!” she hugged me tightly then pulled back her hands still on my shoulders, “Who is it? Are they tall? Are they strong?” she paused smirking, “Is it someone I know?” I swallowed hard as she looked at me with stars in her eyes, “I-” I breathed out, “Yeah,” I nodded knowing if I didn’t at least answer one she would hound me till the sun returned. Namora cooed as she readjusted her seat pulling me close, “You have to tell me everything Y/N!” she smiled with an expectant look on her face, “Well,” I swallowed hard, “She’s tall and um really pretty.” I couldn't help but just gush about her to her, it’s not like she would ever notice keeping the most blatant things out such as “she visits me daily and I dress her up because its the only way I can be physically close to her” you know, little things. “She sounds like such a catch Y/N” Namora cooed as she braided my hair, “You have no idea,” I laughed as I felt her fingers run though my hair, “You should ask her out!” “No I don’t think-” she placed her hands firmly on my shoulders as she leaned down to my ear, “You should go for it, no matter what happened what if she says yes?” I turned to meet her gaze, “And what if she says no.” watching her brows furrow as she gave me a sympathetic look, “And what if she says yes?” I couldn't help but think of kissing her right then and there, just cupping her jaw and bringing her in close no pacing around my feelings just going for it. But it was just as a thought as she re-positioned herself behind me to continue to braid my hair. Leaning back I savored being close to her like this, feeling her strong legs wrap around my hips as she sat up feeling myself go lax in her embrace as she gently tugged on my hair, “Falling asleep there?” I gently shook my head as I rested my head on in the crook of her shoulder feeling her gills gently move against my ear as I closed my eyes, “It feels nice.” I mumbled into her neck as she laughed wrapping her arms around me, “You’re so funny Y/N” I shook my head as I tried to enjoy this fleeting moment. Soon she patted my shoulders gently shaking me awake, “Its getting late Y/N,” I sighed heavily as I turned around hugging her softly as I felt her arms wrap around me, “Can’t you just stay the night again?” I looked up at her gentle smile, “I have to be up early tomorrow so I don’t want to wake you up too early,” letting go she turned to the door, “I’ll see you again tomorrow?” I asked wringing my hands, “Of course I’ll be here,” she pointed to me before leaving, “And we’re going to discuss this lady of yours!” she smiled as she dashed off, swimming home. I sighed as I grabbed her courting gift, unwrapping it and putting it on the mannequin before grabbing a small basket filled with fine beads and accents, finishing up the details I sighed thinking of how she was persistent to know who this mystery woman was, ‘I have to tell her sometime,’ I thought to myself as I tied the line finishing the base of the dress, pulling out layers of tool and draping it around the mannequin to make a cape. I couldn't sleep, not now knowing that she knows I have feelings for someone, as I measured the pieces and cut them out before pinning them to the mannequin, her words echoed in my head, “You should go for it no matter what” she said. I sighed looking back at my finished look, I just needed to line the individual pieces and tack it to the cape and it should be ready and when its ready I’ll be ready. No matter what. I sighed looking out of my door just a peak to see the city was still asleep so I swam over to my bed to get some rest just for a little bit before I go back to the market to sell some dresses. Laying in my bed I looked over to see the sketch of Namora in the courting gift I pulled my heavy blanket over my shoulders as I took one glance and said a silent prayer to the gods to give me some luck and some courage to confess how I feel for my best friend and quickly succumbed to a deep sleep with the thought of Namora on my minds eye. 

With the dress finished and the tensions of war heavy on the world there was no other time then now I thought I could say something. For the past few days she’s been gone, up in the cavern where Ku’Ku’Ikan worked when he wished to be unbothered. I wrapped the dress in fine cloth, tying it with a brightly colored rope, taking an sweet smelling oil i marked the fabric then held it close to my heart, hoping that she would accept it along with my feelings. I took deep breaths holding the gift close to my chest as I tried to steady my nerves, apparently after Ku’Ku’Ikan had brought the Wakandan princess down to Talokan one of her soldiers came down here and killed the guard and maid watching over them, I didn’t know any of them personally but I coudn’t help but feel the pain that the rest of Talokan felt at this betrayal. They were someones child, someones lover, they were someone with a life and aspirations and now they coudn’t live those anymore, all because of the greed of the surface world, I sighed feeling a pang in my heart for the two women then immediately was shaken from thought as I heard the beads of my curtain rustle with a certain ‘swoosh’ as I saw my Namora swim through the door post, she looked tired, as if she hadn’t slept in days. “Namora,” I cooed ushering her to me pulling her into a warm embrace, “What is it?” I pulled her back looking into her tired eyes, “I’m just a bit tired thats all, but I wanted to come see you before the big speech.” my brows furrowed, “What speech?” she gave a tired smile as I led her to my bed to sit down and rest, “Ku’Ku’Ikan is going to declare war on the surface world, and I want to you to come with me so you can get a good spot too.” I felt her head lean on my shoulder as she faded in and out of sleep, I fiddled with the soft fabric of her skirt as she settled next to me, it was another one of my creations this one I was playing with dying on the surface giving it a nice red to white type of tone. “This is for you,” I put the gift on her lap as she sat next to me, “Oh Y/N,” I swallowed hard trying to think of how to say how I feel as I watched her unwrap the parcel revealing the the dress, “Oh Y/N its beautiful,” she held it up sitting up straight now as she pulled the cape up admiring the bright hues swaying in the current she then pulled out the main piece, a certain glimmer in her eye as she recognized the piece then turning to me embracing me tightly, “I love it Y/N,” pulling back I watched her eyes light up again, “I can wear this to Ku’Ku’Ikan’s speech!” she jumped up immediately changing into the new dress, “I wanted to gift this to you as a way to segway to tell you that I care about you, a lot that is and where ever this war takes us I just wanted to tell you how I feel.” I looked up to see she was still slipping on the dress quickly jumping up, undoing the back of the dress for it to fit snugly over her body as I laced up the back, pinning the sides and wrapping the cape around her snugly, she looked down smoothing down her dress as she looked up to me with a beaming smile, “I love it.” there was something about how she smiled that never failed to make my heart skip a beat, “I-” I looked at her, “I’m glad you like it,” wringing my hands I watched as she twirled in her dress watching the cape flow, “Oh Y/N, I didn’t quite catch what you said when I was putting the dress on what were you saying?” as I looked back at her I couldn't help but remember how tired she looked when I saw her, my feelings were the last on her agenda and with a war in the making theres no chance a person like me could ever provide for a woman like her. “It’s nothing, I think I was just gushing how you don’t have any fine gowns and with all these tensions going on I thought it would be nice to help bring up your spirits.” there was a certain pang in my chest as I said each word, it was heavy and hurtful as I said each word as I realized I could never be anything more then her friend. It hurt even more feeling her arms wrap around my shoulders as she thanked me telling me how I was her best friend, but sometimes you just have to embrace the pain and welcome it in open arms I guess thats what I did when I hugged her back tightly remembering shes embracing a friend and nothing more. 

sorry also idk how to use this platform

[batdiangelo]

[BENDY AND THE FINAL CYCLE] Chapter Two: The Old World

Audrey yawned, stretching as she sat up in her bed. Swinging her legs over the side, she carefully walked to the kitchen, desperate for a cup of coffee. Starting the coffee maker, Audrey glanced into her small office, smiling at the sight of a still-sleeping toon.

Bendy was curled up comfortably in one of Audrey’s desk drawers, a small blanket wrapped around him, and a soft pillow beneath his head. As she moved into the small room, Audrey’s heart sank when she noticed her father’s book was missing.

“No… No, I swear I brought it home last night!” She mumbled, moving things around her desk to see if it had been moved. “I swear…I..” Her stomach twisted as she realized she had left her most important possession at her workplace. her mind raced with worry, thinking only about her friends trapped within the cycle. As she continued searching, hoping she was wrong; movement from Bendy’s drawer snapped her out of her worry. Looking down, Audrey saw the toon looking up at her with tired, questioning eyes. She sighed, and crouched down to his level.

“Hey sweetie,” she smiled softly, helping him out of the drawer. “how’d you sleep?” She asked, walking with him to the kitchen. The sleepy demon shrugged, unable to speak. Audrey sighed, moving to the kitchen to grab her coffee. “So, we have to head back to work today, I may have left the book there..” She said, watching as Bendy’s face changed to one of worry.

“I know, I know” she said, sipping on the warm liquid. “this isn’t ideal, but the sooner we get to my office and find it, the better.” Bendy hid his face behind his hands, shaking slightly. Audrey, sensing his fear, forced a smile. “it’ll be okay, Bendy. I promise.” She said, walking to her room.

“we’ll go in quick and maybe even pop into the cycle to say hi to everyone!” she said, watching how Bendy’s fear disappeared. The young toon grinned, excitement shinning in his eyes. Audrey smiled, closing her door to get dressed.

Upon arriving to Archgate pictures, Audrey left Bendy in her car, promising to be quick. As she walked into the lobby, she saw a few mechanics carrying a strange uncovered box towards the delivery bay. Her heart dropped when she saw the logo on their uniform.

“GENT CORP.” it said, in large grey block lettering. she cursed mentally, seeing her father’s book inside of the open box. Rushing past the mechanics, Audrey made her way to her office; hoping the copy they had wasn’t hers.

once inside her office, Audrey frowned. Her copy wasn’t anywhere in the office, she noticed as she searched through her desk.

“now what..” she muttered, sitting in her chair. running her hand down her face, Audrey looked around. “what do I tell bendy…?” She wondered out-loud, staring at the picture above her desk. Boris, Bendy and Alice smiled down at her, mid-step as if walking.

Congratulations on your success! Your Best Pal, Henry Stein

Audrey gasped, standing from her spot. the neatly written words on the photo in front of her stared at her. Henry could help, she thought, feeling slightly relieved. if I show him Bendy, he might help!

she frowned, eyebrows furrowing. “Now how would I find him?” she said, finding herself wandering towards the elevator. “I wonder if the museum might say anything!” she gasped, heading towards the Joey Drew Museum that was within the studio. walking into it, she felt her heart drop at the sight of a missing ink machine, alongside the missing sacrifices. she scanned the newspapers, photos, anything for a sign as to where the real Henry Stein would be. she stopped short at a small letter, from a Mrs. Stein. it had thanked Joey for the house-warming gift, and how his gift made their move to Pasadena so much smoother. Audrey smiled, heading back outside to bendy.

“Alright, sweetie,” She said, getting into the car. “There’s been a change of plans but… We’re going to save the cycle- one last time.” she explained, heading towards city hall. Bendy looked confused, watching out the window as Audrey drove. “I’m gonna see if his address is public record, and we’re going to ask Henry for help.”

-0-

Yawning, Henry walked out to the small living room; smiling at the sight of his wife sleeping peacefully in her sleeping bag. His daughter, Carrie, was sleeping next to her- the remnants of a birthday sleepover strewn across the room. Henry felt his heart swell as he moved towards his desk carefully, an idea forming in his head. within minutes, Henry had the Kitchen decorated like a diner, complete with a sign.

“Dad’s Dashin’ Diner.” he smiled at the sign, and started to quietly prepare Carrie’s birthday breakfast. He turned on the coffee maker, pulling out two mugs in preparation of the beloved drink. As he got the first stack of pancakes ready, he heard his daughter waking Linda.

“Mommy, mommy look..!” she whispered, pointing towards the kitchen. She giggled, and Henry smiled wide. Carrie appeared in the doorway with Linda, who was rubbing sleep out of her eye when she saw Henry. “Daddy’s making breakfast!”

“Welcome to Dad’s Dashin’ diner!” Henry exclaimed putting on a fake accent. “Are you Carrie? I got news from an old pal of mine that today’s your birthday!” Carrie giggled at him, nodding. her toothy grin spurred Henry on, expertly flipping a pancake.

“yes! I turn 8 years old today!” She explained, climbing into one of the chairs at the breakfast bar. “you know this, daddy!” she giggled more, watching with awe as Henry prepared a plate. he placed it in front of her, a whipped cream and strawberry face decorating the top of the stack.

“Happy Birthday Carrie,” He smiled, handing his wife a cup of coffee. She smiled at him, silently thanking him for it. as he moved to make himself and Linda a plate of food the doorbell rang. “Oh, I got it.” He said, taking the apron he wore off.

walking over to the door, Henry opened it and saw a short ebony-haired woman standing on the other side. Her green eyes squinted when she smiled at him. “Hello, are you Henry Stein?” she asked. Henry nodded, slightly confused.

“yeah,” he cleared his throat, offering her a smile. “I’m sorry, but I don’t…I don’t think I know you?” He said, slightly apologetic. The woman nodded, understandingly.

“My name is Audrey…” She said, “Audrey Drew. you knew my father.” She explained. “There’s a lot to explain but-” Henry stared at the woman, shocked.

“you’re Joey Drew’s daughter..?” He questioned, watching as she nodded. “he must’ve gone really low to send you all the way out here to get me to visit the studio-”

“Joey died, two years ago.” Audrey interrupted kindly, watching as Henry stepped back. “I know, It’s a lot to take in. I’m so sorry.” she explained, glancing behind her. “There’s more too…” Audrey stepped out of the way, and Henry’s jaw dropped.

“Bendy..” he said, stepping outside and carefully closing the door behind him. “he’s real.” The small cartoon stepped closer to him, reaching for his hand. Henry knelt down, holding out his hand to him. Bendy smiled at him, grabbing it. “heh, hey kiddo..” he whispered, smiling back.

“I need your help, Henry.” Audrey said, causing the man to look up at her. “People I care about are in trouble” She stated. “People Bendy care about are in trouble…please. Can you help us…?” Henry stood, glancing into the window where he saw his wife helping Carrie clean up breakfast.

“I don’t understand,” He said, looking back at her. “Who’s in trouble?” Audrey sighed, looking tired.

“My father, he created this world,” She said, looking away. “He called it The Cycle. he made versions of the people that hurt him…That left him, to torment.” She looked back at Henry, her eyes sad. “he eventually styled a script, surrounding the person that hurt him the most.”

“Me..” Henry realized, his stomach twisting. “I left him in 1930, it…wasn’t pretty.” He said, not wishing to remember that day.

“That’s another thing. this…Cycle version of you…He has false memories. He thinks he left the studio in ‘33. I inherited this world…I’ve been trying to make it better; make this other version of you suffer less.” She explained. “but all that’s in danger, because the machine and the book it lives in was stolen from me…” Henry nodded, somehow believing her.

“I..I can help, but I need to be back by the end of the day,” He said, opening the door again. “It’s my daughter’s eighth birthday, I don’t wanna miss it.”

“that’s okay, We shouldn’t take too long” Audrey smiled, grabbing Bendy’s hand. “I know where it’s gone, we Just need to get it back.”