#elle isn't sleeping again

[imagining-in-the-margins]

CM Friends with Benefits

Hey everyone! Thank you so much to everyone who joined us. I am so happy to share everyone’s hard work. If you have a oneshot or masterlist you’d like me to add, please send me a message - new additions are always welcome.

SFW S.R./Reader

Cuddle Buddies by @foxy-eva: (Fem) Spencer misinterprets the meaning of friends with benefits (having a friend to cuddle is, in fact, highly beneficial).

Play Dates by me: (GN) Reader learns Spencer hasn’t had many dates and offers to share several Play Dates.

Astraphobia by me: (Fem) Reader and Spencer share their embarrassing fears.

The Only Exception by me: (GN) Reader is beginning to believe in love again.

NSFW S.R./Fem!Reader (18+)

It’s Too Cliché by me: Reader and Spencer are the worst at being friends with benefits.

Damaged Goods by @foxy-eva: The belief that they were both undeserving of love led Spencer and Reader into each other's arms.

Yours by @aliteralsemicolon: Spencer never thought he’d be lucky enough to find Reader.

Heavenly by @dudeitiskarev: Reader confesses that she's a virgin, and she asks Spencer to be her first.

Wildest Dreams by @ghsface: It was a one night thing.

Crawling Back to You by @incognit0slut: Reader never planned on having a fling with her brother's friend.

A Kindness You Can't Afford by @mercy-burning: It started as 'stress relief between co-workers,' but now Reader can't help herself.

Relax, I've Got You by @reidmotif: Reader isn't great at handling stress. Luckily, Spencer knows how to make her feel better.

I'm Your Fluffer by @reiderwriter: Spencer is Reader's boyfriend without the benefits.

Second Chances & Something More by @reidsrambles: Reader is stunned when her former FWB shows up at her job nearly a decade after ghosting him.

Even more fics and pairs below!

I Won't Let You Forget by @reiderwriter: Reader wakes up with no memory of begging her long-time work crush to sleep with her.

Down Bad by @samuel-de-champagne-problems: After seeing that her ex boyfriend is engaged to his “rebound girl”, Reader finds herself missing the sex.

Safe Place by @sinfulspencer: After a hard case, Spencer takes comfort in Reader's body. 

Casual by @waywardxrhea: Reader thought that her sexcapades with Spencer had meant more to him.

Goddess, Soft by @none-of-your-bullshit: Spencer gets jealous.

Lost Time by me: Reader and Spencer spend their mandatory leave on vacation. As "friends."

NSFW Other xReaders (18+)

Passionate Reunion by @badathumanemotions: (Emily/Fem) Reader's in town on business and takes the opportunity to reconnect.

Stepping into Desire by @badathumanemotions: (Emily/Fem) Emily decides to wear heels and a tight skirt to catch the attention of a certain co-worker.

Medicine at Midnight by @pkg4mumtown: (Hotch/GN) A night out with the team leads to either the best or worst mistake Reader could have made.

Sneaky Touch by @tjwritesfanfics: (Hotch/Fem) Hotch is only a man and maybe Reader should wait until they get home to tempt him.

After Hours by @badathumanemotions: (Emily/Fem/Spencer) The trio has an arrangement.

Down by the River by @tjwritesfanfics: (Joe Joe - RV) Reader knew they couldn't stay with him forever, but at least for one night they could pretend.

Character Pairings

Time for Talk by @vaguelyclevermatters: (Rated T, Demily) Emily was hungover after a night in Vegas but the team seems fine. She must've gotten up to something (or someone) the others didn't.

Now or Never [Ao3] by @masterwords: (unrated, Hotchgan) An exploration of Hotch's agreement with Derek during his divorce.

Untitled by @siyvaruli: (Hotchgan) Derek discusses his situation with his sisters.

Just a Booty Call by @the-queen-and-the-king: (NSFW, Hotchniss) What was Emily supposed to do when she and her boss suddenly break every rule during an investigation?

Harder to Hide [Ao3] by @vampireids: (NSFW, Spencelle) After dying in Georgia, Spencer visits Elle to tell her he finally understands.

Gold in the Summertime [Ao3] by @justjasper: (NSFW, Derek/Elle/Spencer) Instead of the Fisher King, the BAU gets their two weeks vacation, and Reid goes to Jamaica with Elle and Morgan.

Until I See You Again [Ao3] by @leahseclipse: (Moreid) Spencer and Morgan had an arrangement, but it all changes when Spencer's feelings start to grow.

What's Wrong with Being Confident? by @baubeautyandthegeek: (Blake/Strauss) JJ wonders. Spencer answers.

Only Bought this Dress So You Can Take it Off by @baubeautyandthegeek: (Elle/Ilsa) The two share a night together.

Happy reading!

P.S. If I missed your fic or you have a new one to add, feel free to send me a message. I would love to add it!

[lxclerc]

𝐟𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐫 | 𝐚𝐥𝟏𝟐

summary… arthur is absolutely obsessed with his girlfriend and everyone needs to know request… yes but its for @coffeehurricanes again faceclaim… olivia rodrigo pairing… arthur leclerc x singer! reader

note… i’m being held hostage and the only ransom is arthur leclerc smaus

𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩

arthurlovesyn

liked by arthur_leclerc, yourusername and others

arthurlovesyn featuring the most gorgeous girl in the world

view all comments…

user1 if he isn't as obsessed with me as arthur leclerc is with his gf then i don't want it

user2 she's so girlfriend in all of the photos arthur posts 🥹🥹

arthur_leclerc the most beautiful truly!

⤷ user3 arthur commenting on here as if he isn't the one running this fan page lmao

⤷ charles_leclerc mate, you need help

user4 if they ever break up, i don’t believe in love anymore

user5 look at her smile omg 🥹

yourusername baby, you’re right next to me

⤷ arthurlovesyn the world needed to see how gorgeous you are

⤷ user6 thank you for your service, arthur 🫡

arthur_leclerc

liked by yourusername, pascale_leclerc and others

arthur_leclerc she’s everything, i’m just ken but that’s kenough for me

view all comments…

user1 it wasn’t enough that arthur runs a wholeass fan page for y/n. his main account also needs to be a y/n fan account

user2 they mean so very much to me 🥹

pascale_leclerc demande lui quand elle reviendra. elle me manque beaucoup !!! (ask her when she’s coming over again. i miss her dearly!!!)

⤷ yourusername je saute dans un avion tout de suite pour toi, maman leclerc ! (jumping on a plane right now for you, mama leclerc!)

⤷ user3 y/n learning to speak french to be able to communicate with the important people in arthur’s life will never not make me want to cry

yourusername actually you’re everything to me 🤍

⤷ olliebearman you’re making arthur cry again

⤷arthur_leclerc IM NOT CRYING OLLIE

⤷ arthur_leclerc Je t'aime pour toujours, ma belle 🤍

⤷ user4 not ollie coming for arthur’s neck like that 😭

⤷ user6 THEYRE EVERYTHING TO ME

charles_leclerc you two make me nauseous

⤷ lorenzotl they are in love, charles

⤷ arthur_leclerc not that charles would ever know what being in love feels like 🤣

⤷ charles_leclerc 🖕🖕🖕🖕🖕

⤷ user5 charles fr catching some mad strays in this thread

yourusername

liked by arthur_leclerc, pascale_leclerc, and others

yourusername i hope i never lose you, i hope it never ends

view all comments…

user1 y/n wanted everyone to know that she is, in fact, as obsessed with arthur as much as arthur is obsessed with her

user2 stargazing!!! in!!! the!!! middle!!! of!!! the!!! highway!!!

arthur_leclerc i’ve been sleeping in a 20 year dark night but now i see daylight 🤍🤍

⤷ user3 he quoted daylight 😭😭😭😭😭😭

⤷ yourusername i love you deeply, my sunshine 🤍

⤷ user4 i’m going to kms

taylorswift ❤️❤️❤️

⤷ yourusername mother 🧎‍♀️

⤷ user5 MOTHER

⤷ user6 when mother approves, you know he’s the one

[just-some-random-blogger]

He Tells Me

Masterlist

You've fallen into psychological stalemate with a man who does things for you without needing to be asked, and neither of you want to give up the last say.

Joel Miller x Reader | 1k+ | cw: fem!reader, fluff, overgiver!joel & yn, ellie 'JUST FUCKING KISS ALREADY' williams, typos, etc.

A/N: ive fallen into this song again. ITS SO JOEL CODED

Tagging: @pinksirensong @aralezinspace @sloanexx @multifandom-fangirl4

▶ ♪ Play touch tank by quinnie ♪ ◀

I love you isn't always I and Love and You; it isn't always the words that tumble out of your mouth or the lump that's stuck in your throat.

I love you isn't always a kiss and a hug; it isn't always the way lips brush against skin or chests press against chests.

Sometimes it's good mornings. Good morning, I love you. Did you sleep well, I love you. Have you eaten, I love you.

I love you, I did the dishes.

I love you, I fixed your faulty light.

Hey, let me carry that for you.

This reminded me of you, here.

I think you'd like this.

I love you.

But somehow, those I love yous read to you as you owe mes, and now, you were paying back every bit of your debt with blood, sweet, and a burnt hand.

Ellie opens the door and smiles, immediately calling your name and pulling you into a side hug. You lean into her embrace as much as the steaming casserole in your hand will allow you.

"You made it just in time for dinner!" she says, pushing you in with her.

You chuckle, "oh, Elle-machine. I'm just here to drop this off and-"

"Don't be silly," a voice cuts you off. Joel comes down from the stairs, barely glancing your way as he overtakes you both, heading for the kitchen. Still, you notice his faint smile and a shot of electricity ripples down your spine, a swell of warmth crawls up your ears.

Joel walks off, grunting as he did, "you're staying for dinner. End of story."

Ellie watches you be rendered frozen in your spot. She does not hide her grin, "he just called you silly."

You turn to her, finding the pot in your hand was feeling heavier, "... he did."

You and Ellie make it to the dining table and you set the food you prepared on a table next to the other dishes.

"Wow," you mutter, "roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and a salad," you look up at Joel, who was walking over with another pot. He sets the pot down as you turn to Ellie, "is it your birthday or something?"

"No," Ellie sit down with a smile, "Joel just knows I'm a growing child who needs her food."

You bring a hand to your mouth to hold in your giggles. Joel catches this and furrows his brows.

"Consider me jealous, honey," you tease her.

"Well, you could always move in with us," Ellie props her elbows on the table.

Before you can reply, Joel takes your hand, making both you and Ellie turn to him. Your heart pounds. His expression hardens as he takes in the cloth wrapped around your palms, "what happened to your hand?"

You watch him examine your hand a second too long. Joel looks back at out, ripping a response from your lips, "I- uh- the... the casserole."

Joel raises his brows, "you burnt your hand cooking?"

The worry in his brown eyes ate away at your heart. You clench your jaw, unwilling to admit you were a useless and bad cook, "... no."

Joel thinks back to the contents of the first aid kit in the compound.

"I- I was doing something with the pot and then I-"

"I think Tommy has burn ointment somewhere," Joel trails off, immediately releasing my hand and marching off.

Your stomach drops. You immediately catch his arm, "wait!"

Joel stops in his tracks, looking back at you.

"It's not a big deal!" you say through an airy chuckle, "I put it under running water for a while. I just put a wrap because it hurts when I-"

His hand, warm and gentle, coming atop yours cuts you off. Joel shifts in his spot; your ears perk, as they were sensitive to the sound of his boots. He gives you a look, a kind one, a patient one, a tender one, "it isn't a big deal. I'll be back in two seconds."

The moment Joel walks off, Ellie pipes up, "you should just take a seat. You know you can't argue with him. Well, I mean you can but that normally doesn't end up well." She pats on the empty chair beside her, "want to hear about what I did in school today instead?"

You release a soft breath and smile, "of course, darling."

When Joel came back, he announced there was no burn ointment, but he did find an ice pack. The only problem now, there was no ice. And so as the three of you began to eat, he explained he'd fix the broken ice cream freezer in the warehouse and make ice for you tomorrow. To which you said-

"You really don't have to," you shake your head, suddenly too embarrassed to get anymore food than you already had on your plate. You had one scoop of mashed potatoes.

Joel moves the bowl of mash closer to you then takes off the lid of one pot, "I meant to do it anyway. They found spare parts for it. Now I have a reason," he turns to you, "have some pasta. I made it for you."

Your eyes land on the pot. You begin to feel a nasty little feeling claw up your nape at the thought of Joel going out of his way for you. I mean, you made the casserole to repay him for helping you do your laundry, and if it wasn't bad enough that he saw your underwear, he made you food, one of your favorites. You offer Joel a smile, "thank you, Joel."

He reaches out to your for your plate. You hand it to him wordlessly. He mutters, "you're welcome, sweetheart."

Your lips part. He's never called you that before, only Ellie.

He stills the moment he has your plate in hand, "I- I mean-"

"NAH," Ellie cuts as she rips off a chicken leg, "you called her sweetheart. No take backsies."

Joel clears his throat as he puts pasta on your plate.

When you all finished eating, not a lick was left on your plates. You obviously insisted on washing the dishes and Joel countered you wouldn't be because you were a guest. The back and forth became so insufferable Ellie stepped up and volunteered, insisting instead that Joel walk you back home. You had no means to insist your way out of that.

And so you waited by the front door for Joel to get his jacket from the second floor. When he got it, the two of you headed out, walking quite leisurely.

"You know," you shove your hands in your pockets. You couldn't help it, "my house is literally, like, two steps away from here. You don't have to walk-"

Joel draping his jacket around your shoulders silence you. He pulls the thing by the collar, making sure it was snug on you, "yeah. All the more reason to walk you, since it's so close."

You watch him pull his pants up as he looks around. He offers, "but if it's a challenge you want, we can circle 'round the compound a bit before heading back to yours."

A warmth envelopes you, and it's not because of his jacket.

He turns to you when you don't respond, immediately blurting, "only if you want," he wipes his lips, "I'm not trying to make you do-"

"No, I know," you shake your head, "I know what you mean."

You and Joel look at each other in the quiet while walking. He takes a moment before nodding. He chuckles rather uneasily, "okay... good- that's good."

Seconds pass with just the sound of your footsteps between you.

You decide to say what's on your mind, "Uh," you turn to your feet.

Joel immediately locks his gaze on you.

"Next time," you purse your lips, "just leave the pasta to me."

Joel knits his brows. Damn.

"You know..." you look away, "like, I'm glad you invited me over and all, but you-"

"Was it that bad?"

You finally turn to him, "what?"

"Was my cooking that bad?" Joel feels his insides churn. He feels so stupid suddenly for not following the recipe to a tee. Damn his personal tastes.

You shake your head, "no. No! Your cooking was great! It wasn't bad at all. I enjoyed it. This isn't about your cooking."

He makes a face, "oh..."

You nod, clarifying, "I just- you don't have to do that for me."

He takes a moment to think. Oh... He snorts and rubs his nose, "ah... I see."

You knit your brows at that.

Joel's shoulder's slump. It was him then. Well, he doesn't blame you for not being interested. He releases a breath. It was stupid of him anyway. He thinks of a flimsy excuse to break the tension. It a horrible lie, "sorry, uh, it's just-- Ellie just really wanted to eat with you."

His words make you knit your brows deeper. You blink twice, "Ellie... wanted me to join?"

"Yeah," Joel huffs, "she thinks your great."

You nod slowly.

"But... if you don't want to eat with me, I'll make sure to-"

"Wait, what?"

The both of you stop walking.

Joel feels his insides disintegrate when you look at him the way you do. He looks away and clears his throat. Man up, "I... don't want to make you uncomfortable with any... unwanted advances."

"Wait," you quickly step forward. You rapidly shake your head, "no! I..." you raise your brows, "I just- I don't want to burden you with... with- d-doing things for me."

A deep line forms between Joel's brows, "burden? Who said anything about burdens?"

You look away as you continue to shake your head, "I- I don't know. I just- I don't want to bother you-"

"JUST KISS ALREADY!"

Both of you snap to the side There, from the second floor window, was Ellie, head sticking out of the window. She cups her mouth with her hand and screams again, "KIIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSSS!"

You look away from her. You turn to your feet as you feel your face burn.

Joel's loud voice surprises you, "GO TO BED!"

"I'M NOT 4!" Ellie screams back.

Joel decides to end the screaming match with a grumble, "well, you're damn acting like one." He turns back to you, "sorry about her, she's-"

"I really like you," you blurt when you look back at him, "I really like being around you."

Joel feels his fingers tingle.

Your impulsiveness only now begins to feel like a bad idea, "I-" your voice gets smaller, "it's not unwanted advances... not per se... It's just- when people do things for me, I don't- well, I don't know, I-"

"You can't just accept it?"

You stare at each other for a moment. You nod. Joel nods too.

"I'm usually the one giving, ya know," you say.

Joel nods again, "I do. I feel the same way. I don't like needing to get help from anyone," he crosses his arms, "but, you know, being with Ellie... she's taught me that sometimes-"

"FUCKING KISS HER OLD MAN!"

You can't contain the snort that leaves your mouth. Joel shoots a glare to his side. Still, he breaks into a chuckle, "I'm gonna kill her."

Ellie makes a face and waves her hands, "NO! DON'T LOOK AT ME, LOOK AT HER! LOOK AT- oh my god he actually did it."

[spacedace]

I know it was a prompt and u said you werent gonna do anything with it (and you so should) but i love ur two posts on the Queen of Clones Elle/Amnesiac Champion Kon AU (especially Kon's knight design (like ghost tattoos?!?!? so so cool) and Elle's relationship with him). Got anymore headcanons about this au? Who are the other clones you envisioned playing the background characters? Do Kon and Tim actually cuddle in the Only One Bed scenario? Does Elle get a cool princess/queen design(s) since Kon gets a knight one? Does Tim walk into Kon's knight practice and have a "oh no he's hot" moment? Just afagshjdksll this au is so cool please tell me all about it

The thing is, whenever I say "I'm going to put X idea here for someone else to grab since I'm never going to do anything with it" I'm lying. I'm a liar. It's still lives in my brain and is taking over all rational thought. I have at least 85% of a story written in my head when I say that, I just know that I'm never going to sit down and actually write it down lol

I have SO MANY thoughts about this AU, you have no idea what you've done asking me about it haha

(and seriously if anything at all in my ramblings here is of interest to anyone have at it, everything I post should always be considered free game to use as a writing prompt haha)

Like, between Elle getting snatched by the GIW & Kon ending up in custody with the Justice League for a bit, a lot of the clones that weren't involved in the rescue(s) who are out in the wider multiverse come pouring in to check on them and there's this huge impromptu "Congrats on Escaping a Government Agency" party for the two of them.

There are so many clones just everywhere, Tim is overwhelmed by them all (and hasn't actually realized that the whole deal of the place is that everyone there is a clone yet). But he's dealing. He's sticking close to Kon (because he's never letting Kon leave his sight again, especially since he's half convinced that Elle kidnapped & brainwashed Kon into being her loyal servant for evil purposes) and getting introduced to the most diverse group of entities he's ever seen before (humans aren't the only ones who get into cloning).

And then there's an excited whoop as some kid comes flying out of a portal and launches himself at Kon, talking a thousand miles a second, just so happy Kon is back and okay and the boy is so chipper and happy and sweet that it takes Tim a second to realize holy shit is that Damian????

The kid is the Heretic, aged down and growing up again with a fresh slate after getting sent to Elle's Haunt post however he disappeared/died in DC canon (I'm a bit fuzzy on those details). Of course that information takes a bit for Tim to figure out, becuase the kid has no memories at all of being the Heretic or of Damian or Talia or Bruce or fighting his way out of a whale fully grown. As far as he's concerned he's Antonio, Paulina Sanchez' adopted son, and like sure he's somebody's clone but that really doesn't matter to him, he only comes to Elle's haunt to hang out and tag along behind Kon because he thinks Kon is the coolest. (Kon is explaining this to Tim as a bright, cheerful, normal kid version of Damian is sitting on his shoulders. Tim is losing his god damn mind).

And the Only One Bed Thing!! Okay, so like, Kon is Elle's Champion and basically her unofficial Heir. When Elle isn't around he's in charge of her Haunt and looking after all the other clones. And even when she is there he just goes full Big Brother mode on everyone. It doesn't matter if the clones that end up in the Haunt are actually older than him, he's their big brother now.

To that end, clones end up coming to Kon all the time in the middle of the night, unable to sleep because of nightmares and stuff. And Kon is the cuddliest motherfucker. He's all about platonic cuddles to help people sleep. Just about every clone that's ever spent any time at Elle's haunt has ended up curled up in a blanket fort in Kon's room getting cuddled into feeling safe and cared for.

So for Kon? Only One Bed is no issue at all.

Oh all the clones coming over for the party has taken up all the rooms and Elle is "too weak from recovering" for her Haunt to make more? Of course Red Robin can stay in his room! His bed is so comfy and there's more than enough room for both of them (and like, sure, he's kinda panicking a little because he's never cuddled with anyone he's sorta had a tiny bit of a crush on, but he cab be cool! Besides, its hard to fully commit to the crush one Red Robin when Mystery Boy is out there somewhere, oh maybe he can ask Red Robin about him! He seems to know so much about Kon he'll know who Kon is in love with back in his old life!)

Tim, on the other hand, is just fully:

Over the prospect of having to keep his shit together while sleeping in the same bed as Kon (who sleeps without a shirt, jesus fucking christ, Kon has tattoos now since when did that happen??? why is he somehow more attractive than when he disappeared??? oh god Tim is going to have a fucking heart attack) especially after Kon drops the bomb that the only thing he can remember from before is some guy that Kon was apparently totally in love with??? Like Tim is being thrown wildly between being a Bi Disaster to being totally devistated and back again.

He mostly manages to keep himself together, at least until it's actually time for bed and it turns out that Kon is a cuddler when he sleeps (Kon did warn him! "just shove me off if I end up trying to use you as a pillow it won't wake me up" he said, and Tim thought "well it can't be that bad" he was so fucking wrong) and Tim ends up wrapped up in a cocoon of muscled and tattooed Kryptonian arms with his face smushed into Kon's chest and Kon nuzzling into Tim's hair in his sleep and it's the most comfortable Tim's ever been in his life and Kon purrs in his sleep like how is that even fair??? (I love the Kyrptonian's purr headcanon so much it has to be in here lol)

By the end of the first week Tim's has slept more and better than he has in years. He's genuinely forgotten what it's like to have a normal sleep schedule. Even with all his panicking, Kon sleepily curling up around him and hugging him like a teddy bear just knocks him out. It's insane.

And Elle! I have so many thoughts about Elle in this AU!

I mentioned it in one of my other posts on this AU that Elle gives off Vibes based off her various Epitaphs that she's gained, and I think that she'd kinda push that to the max when it came to Tim for awhile when Kon first shows up with him.

Like, she takes one look at Tim and is like "ah, this is Mystery Boy my amnesiac bestie has been on about forever" while also realizing that Kon has no idea that he's just panic-kidnapped the one person he sorta remembers from his old life. Which is the oppurtunity of so much fun matchmaking chaos. And she loves Kon, she's planning on officially making him her Heir so that he becomes Prince of Clones as well as her Champion, she wants him to be happy.

But also she's protective over him, more even than a lot of the other clones that end up in her Haunt. Kon doesn't remember his old life and he was so badly injured when he ended up in Elle's haunt that Frostbite hadn't been sure he would survive. Add in the fact that Red Robin was clearly with the people that had captured Kon while he and the other clones were getting her out of the GIW facility (and that the Justice League is sort of a government agency in it's own right) and Elle isn't totally sold on Tim.

She goes out of her way to give off extra creepy vibes while around him. Making sure he understands that she's more than strong enough to destroy him if he even thinks about hurting Kon. At least in the early days of Tim being in her haunt. She does, eventually, lighten up - especially when Kon gives her the big eyes and asks her to trust him, that he knows that Red Robin is someone he believes is good and that won't ever hurt him. She's still keeps a close eye on Tim, but does chill out a little after that.

And she does have a Queen Form (and a princess form when she's doing her Crown Princess of the Infinite Realms thing). She has a couple different forms/designs depending on which Epitaph she's invoking (and of course a fun vaguely eldritch shadow form that scares the shit out of Tim haha).

Her Clone Queen design is BIG, not quite massive Eldritch Ghost King Danny big, but definitely big. Like 20-30 feet tall big, so she can pick up and carry/hold all her clone children like little babies (if any clones are from a race/species that's bigger than that her size adjusts so she's always big enough to carry them).

She has a crown made out of mirror shards that float around and move so that it's always changing shape (I've been feeling clones being called "Mirrorborn" in the Infinite Realms since there's kind of a naming convention already with "unborn" and clones could be seen as kind of like reflections in a way. Elle's official title is actually "Queen of the Mirrorborn" though sometimes is called "Mother of Mirrors" that's why Kon's sheild reflects things, since Elle made it for him out of a piece of her crown while naming him her Champion) and wears a dress that also looks like it's covered in mirrors. It's actually very soft and comfortable and it's super common for clones to climb around or curl up in her skirts and sleep in there.

Her dress does turn into armor though if she needs to fight. And while in Clone Queen mode it's actually super easy for her to duplicate herself a bunch of times.

Knight Training!

Once Elle chills out on Tim a little and is fully onboard the matchmaking train with the rest of the clones (all while absolutely none of them tell Kon that Red Robin is obviously his Mystery Boy) she has Fright Knight show up more often to train Kon specifically for the purpose of Tim walking in on shirtless Tim expertly going through sword forms and sparring with various other clones. And of course Tim and Kon have to have a sparring scene, where Tim is so distracted by Kon being so fucking attractive he ends up pinned against a wall with the flat of a sword under his chin and Kon giving him a cheeky wink and then it's on and there's a whole dramatic flirty fight scene as they make their way through half of Elle's Haunt while sword fighting.

Also! Since Elle's entire court is actually there for once, a bunch of different monarchs around the Infinite Realms decide to host a tournament, so Kon gets to do official knight stuff in his best armor. And Tim gets place of honor right next to Elle during all the jousting and fighting stuff so he gets the best view of Kon kicking ass.

Tim (still wearing his mask because even if he's pretty sure that no one here is evil or would use his secret identity against him - or even care that he has one) has been all dressed up in some gorgeous clothes fit for his status as "Companion" to a Queen's Champion/future Heir. Just something absolutely insanely georgous in the colors of his Red Robin suit, with a dramatic but entirely functionless cape and Kon's crest (not Elle's but Kon's) embroidered on it and it's Kon's turn to blue screen at seeing Tim for the first time all dressed up.

And Tim is maybe finally putting together from talking with Kon that he might be Mystery Boy that Kon remembers from before and that Kon is in love with. So just before Kon is going out to joust, Tim - taking Elle's advice that he should give Kon a favor before the tournament for good luck - and wanting it to be more meaningful than just a handkerchief or something, takes his mask of and gives it to Kon as his favor.

And Kon just loses his god damn mind because Mystery Boy and Red Robin are the same person and all he wants to do is kiss Tim stupid but Fright Knight Master of Chivalry is like "nope you gotta win this tournament and bring honor to your beloved and do this whole ridiculous song and dance about it, no kissing, get out there and smash some heads together - and keep your helmet on this time!" and just yeets a disgruntled Kon out into the field before he can do anything.

And of course with all this extra incentive - Fright is serious about that whole "prove your love through combat" thing he's not going to be allowed to even kiss Tim's hand unless he wins and is perfectly chivalous while doing it - Kon wins the Tournament and is given the flower crown he's supposed to give to the most beautiful of all the observers and of course he gives it to Tim and he doesn't care if there's a forty step courting process he's supposed to follow Fright, he's fucking kissing Tim and there's nothing you can do about it!

Literally seconds away from them finally kissing is when the Justice League kick down the door to get Tim back.

The ghosts aren't even the ones that wrecks the Justice League's shit for interuppting, it's just Tim screaming at them about being cock blocks for forty minutes while Kon screams into the void in the background.

(Kon does get his memories back eventually, and he and Tim do finally get that kiss and start dating. But at that point Kon has been named Elle's heir so Fright Knight is even more rediculous about Correct Courting Steps than before because Kon is a Prince now. Elle is just relieved that it turns out that the Justice League nuked the GIW while they were looking for Tim, because they were not okay with them or the Anti-Ecto Laws. Kon is mortified at having what is effectively his adoptive mother constantly popping in to dote on him while in the middle of fights, Elle is having a great time.)

[ellequarius]

Hi elle!! i saw your void success story and as someone also trying to manifest through lucid dreaming it got me so excited. i wanted to know like exactly what you do in lucid dreams to enter the void and how you know its the void. congrats again!! hope you enter and manifest soo much more

Hi!!

I actually wanted to enter the void through a lucid dream for a few months now so I can actually give you some good tips!

I would recommend starting a dream journal, write down your dreams whenever you can remember them so you can have an easier time being aware when you're dreaming.

Reality check during the day, i push my index finger through on the palm of my hand. I do this for both hands. This one works well I've done this twice before in a dream, and the one time I was able to ask myself in a dream "Am I dreaming?" I felt the urge to reality check by pushing my index finger through my palm. If you do this often it can cross over into your dreams.

Notice patterns. One thing I have noticed is that whenever I am able to realize I am in a dream it is usually because something bad has happened. For example on 2 instances where I have been able to realize I was dreaming it was because I got lost at one of the train stations in my city. This was a line I never use and so it wouldn't make sense for me to get lost at one of the stations. For almost all instances where I have been able to lucid dream it is because something bad has happened to my hair, this is mainly because my hair is something I am very sensitive about. It's very curly and takes forever to do and I get really upset whenever something bad happens to it. I know that I am dreaming whenever something bad happens to it because I keep it in protective hairstyles year round in real life.

Learn when your REM cycles occur. Rem cycles are when you have dreams. Normally you're gonna have 3 every night, now there isn't an official way to do this but how I would do it I would sleep for two hours, wake up and see if i remember having a dream, if i don't then sleep for another two hours and then wake up to see if i remember having a dream. If you do this i'd say you'd remember having 3 dreams.... or 3 REM cycles. The time that this occurs can matter for some people. For me it does but only because I typically lucid dream in 2nd or 3rd REM cycle or right before i wake up.

Affirm. My two day routine also works for lucid dreaming. I already made a post about that so just scroll down my blog if you wanna read it.

Also read @charmedreincarnation lucid dreaming guide, hers has so much detail

Hope this helped! I hope you enter and manifest the life of your dreams!

[juvenillia]

~ second death ~ Johnny 'Soap' MacTavish x fem!reader [hurt fic]

summary: Johnny has to prepare himself for a special day, that he never believed would come.

a/n: what can I say? I read this quote and had to get those broken feelings out of my system sorry not sorry we like to suffer

cw/tw: angst, hurt (no comfort), mentions of loss, death, petnames, there is some fluff in between

worcount: 1.8k

》Read on AO3《 》Master Post《

"There was before you and there was during you. For some reason, I never thought there would be an after you." - Colleen Hoover

The look in the mirror, nothing more than a tired reflection of him, staring in the distant. Johnny always knew that his job was hard. That it was full of vicious events repeating one another. But he always came back, especially after he found a reason to which to return to.

"Can I help you?", you asked him with your sweetest smile. He only stood there, literally staring at you. When he was on leave, he always dropped by the traditional bakery in his hometown. Mr. Kringle would already know what he ordered. It was always the same, a pair of the fudge brownies with white chocolate inside and a regular coffee. He didn't expect to be greeted by a new face. "Uhrm. Can ye recommend something?" He suddenly sounded so insecure. So, unlike his physical appearance. Your eyes trailed over the different things separating the two of you behind the glass. "I do fancy these. They're sweet but not to over the top and go perfectly with a black coffee." You explained softly pointing at the baked goods. He didn't even look at them, his eyes are pinned at your soft features. Trying to burn every feature in his brain and he only nodded. "Would you like anything else?", you said soothing while packing his order with such a careful and lovely manner. "Yer number." He was so straightforward, his voice much more confident and you couldn't help the blush growing on your cheeks. Of course, you gave him your number.

He changed; the last mission was harder. Harder than he ever thought, because for the first time he had the feeling, the fear, of not returning. And somehow, he didn’t. A part of him stayed there. A part of him died in Las Almas. That was the first time John MacTavish died. His glance flashes to the bed of your shared bedroom. Well folded sheets, silky in a wonderful olive green. They still hold your scent. It is the only thing that keeps him sane. It is the only thing that lulls him to sleep. He wasn’t able to change those sheets since he returned.

"I like the green ones. They complement the lights when the sun rises.", you chimed while holding the fabric in your delicate fingers. "Whatever yer want, mo ghraidh." [my love] he placed a soft kiss onto the crone of your head. "Johnny.", you exhaled jokingly annoyed. "What?" - "It's gonna be your home too, you can't let me decide everything.", you said while placing the sheets in the shopping cart and hooking your arm around his. He only smiled at you. "Whatever makes you smile, makes me happy."

His eyes return to the image in the mirror. He adjusts the bow tie around his neck. Smoothing out some wrinkles in the suit he wears. He hates suits. Especially this one.

"Bloody ‘ell, MacTavish. It isn't that hard to pick a damn suit.", Simon exhaled annoyed while Johnny puts on what feels like the millions suit. "It has to be perfect. Alright?!", he yelled from the changing room where he just fought with those tight pants. Maybe he gained some muscles again and should buy a larger one. You definitely wouldn't mind. "She isn't marrying the suit; she is marrying ya. And that is already a miracle itself mate.", Simon explained while scrolling through his phone. Johnny paused his movements and grins like a mad man. Bended over he looked in the tiny mirror in front of him, but not at himself. More like in the distant. " 'm gonna marry her.", his voice is filed with pure sincerity.

His fingers run over the side of the bed where you always slept. The mattress still having an imprint of your figure where you were lying all the time. The spot he now sits down and would just love to be swallowed by the soft mattress.

"Love...", you exhaled only above a whisper. He only pushed him closer into you, his head resting on your chest and counting your heartbeat while trying to steady his own. You absently let your hand play with the strand of his hair. "It’s alright. I’m here with you.", you chimed in your sing song voice. He only nuzzled his head further into you while squeezing your sides. "I love ya, bonnie." You only kissed the top of his head. “I love you too.”, he closed his eyes again and drifted away once more.

His eyes trail over to the window. Showing a little garden. It was neatly organized. Flowers blooming everywhere. The ones right in front if the window, they were your favorites.

"MacTavish, you're an unbelievable idiot.", you cried out while cleaning the mud from your face. He wrapped his arms around your waist, hands full of dirt. "And all yours, my dear.", he chimed while picking you up and swirling your around. Holding you close in his embrace. "Forever, yours.", he repeated softly before letting your lips meet his. You cupped his cheeks, but mostly to get revenge. Greasing the mud all over his face, just like he did a few minutes before. "Ya gonna regret that." He snickers, while you pulled out if his embrace and started running away from him. The laugh never ending while he chased you and pulled you down into the still wet grass and planted kisses all over your face. It was his favorite melody.

He pushes himself up from the bed and goes downstairs. Simon is already here, as well as Kyle. He looks at them, wearing those suits he knew too well. They look back at him. Their faces wear a weak smile, and Johnny only nods before his eyes drift over to the kitchen to the right.

"Bonnie, we have guests.", Johnny yelled out while entering your house. You walked downstairs to greet his teammates. "Nice to see you again. Tea?", you chimed while heading over to the kitchen and pulling the kettle down from the shelf. "I still think ya don't deserve her, Soap.", Kyle said while following you. "When yer hold hostage blink twice.", he said looking at you, and Johnny just pushed him gently in the side. "Ya can always call, when he does something stupid.", Simon assured you. Pulling out their usual mugs from the shelf above you. "So, you mean like all the time?", you asked jokingly. You all laughed. During these times the world seemed alright.

It's silent. The two men only look at him, nodding silently. Johnny swallows hardly before heading outside to Simon's car. The taller man taking the driver’s seat. Johnny sinks int the passenger seat and closes his eyes.

"You won't drive. Please you're way too battered, love.", you pulled him away from the driver’s seat and he lets you. Simon gently took the keys out of Johnny's hand. "Aye. But you dae wanna make out with me still. Eh?", his walk was sloppy as you helped him in the backseat, still wearing the smile you fell in love with in the first place. Kyle took the passenger’s seat in the front. "Always." You placed a quick peek on his cheek while securing the seatbelt before moving into the car next to him. Reaching out for his hand.

The men climb out of the car and head right into the church. With every step forward it grows heavier. Johnny wants to run away. He wants to turn away. Simon and Kyle are right behind him. Simon’s hand lingered on his shoulder. His face is serious, but never cold.

"Finally satisfied?", Kyle asked in a mocking tone. "I hope so.", Simon exhaled quite annoyed. They wore the suits Johnny picked out and they stood in front of a mirror. Johnny nodded. "She's gonna love it.", he beams in happiness and even Simon couldn't suppress the smile growing at his lips.

They enter the church you loved so much. Everything seemed so pretty. Too pretty. The place is decorated in your favorite flowers. Your friends and family are all gathered together. A man walks up to the front and starts a speech.

"I just can't put all my feelings for her in a minute speech. How is this supposed to work?!", he panicked and Simon scoffs. "Just imaging what you really want her to hear. A few things you always wanted to say to her but never found the right time to.", he stated calm. Kyle and Johnny looked at him in disbelief. "That could actually work." - " That’s why I am yer best man..."

So, he stands up straight and starts his speech. Hands gripping tight on a little paper in his hands. Every word is heavy on his tongue, but he manages to push through and holds the tears back. "I never realized how lost I was in this world until I looked into your eyes. In those pretty eyes I found my home. And when I heard your voice for the first time, I heard my future. I committed myself completely and only to you, and I would do it again and again. Forever yours.", his voice goes quiet. Nobody of the guests would really understand his words, but you would. That is the only thing that matters. His heart is shattered into pieces as he places a ring down into the earth. A ring you was meant to wear. A ring he got long time ago because he was sure about it. Sure, about you.

"Yer lost mate.", Simon exhaled shocked while looking at the little box Johnny held out to him. "Why?" - "Ya know her for a month, went to yer first date like two ago and yer already got 'her a ring??" Johnny chuckled, his eyes lingering on the box. "I know she's the right one Lt. I just know." Simon only shook his head, but a soft smile was on his lips.

This was the moment all the people around him witnessed the second death of Johnny MacTavish. There was before you. A time Johnny can't remember at all. Because you changed it all for him. The time during your shared life was everything he ever wanted. Everything he never thought he could have. And somehow, he never thought there would be time after you but here you were. He always supposed he would leave way before you, but that wasn't the case. Here is he standing surrounded by people that love you, but nobody could understand what you meant to him. Nobody of them would understand the love he's holding for you. Nobody would understand that with your leaving you also took him with you.

[somber-sapphic]

insult to injury + "it's just a bad dread, wake up" for elle greenaway if you could!!! please and thanks

A Sucker For Cuddles

Hey all! Sorry for being gone yesterday, I legit couldn't bring myself to write. Anyway, I hope you all had a wonderful day/night and that it continues!!

[[summary]] Elle gets herself hurt on a case and the universe decides that her injury just isn't enough. FBI agent's just can't get a break. (elle greenaway x reader)

Word Count: 1713

-----

You opened your eyes and let out a huge yawn, reaching over to the bedside table to smack the alarm clock that was screaming incessantly at you and your girlfriend. Once you got the damn thing off you laid back again, wondering if you even needed to get out of bed. Technically you had the day off so you really didn’t have to move at all.

This was the first day off you’d had in a long time, you were always called in on one case or another, and with Elle on sick leave you may just get to spend the day pampering the overly stubborn agent. It had literally taken a broken ankle to get the woman to rest.

You rolled over and nuzzled into Elle’s bare shoulder, wrapping an arm around her waist. You stayed like that for only a moment before drawing away, your face wrinkling in concern. Her skin was much warmer than it should be, a thin layer of sweat coating her whole body. Despite the heat radiating from her, she was shivering slightly, clinging to the blankets like they were her only lifeline.

“Oh, Elle.” You murmured, keeping your voice low enough that she wouldn’t hear. Though, considering that the alarm hadn’t even caused her to stir there was a real chance that she could sleep through you banging pots together and belting Hamilton at the top of your lungs. Not that you had done that…in your defense you were drunk.

You slipped out of bed and readjusted the blankets up around Elle’s shoulders, tucking her in tightly. She hummed in discomfort and sniffled before smushing her runny nose against the slightly damp pillow.

You’d need to get her a bath to get rid of some of that sweat. It would be difficult to do that with the cast though, maybe you’d just do a classic wet towel bath just to help her feel a little better. But that would come after you fed and medicated her.

You padded out of the room, mind racing as you tried to go over everything that you’d need to do for the sick woman. She typically got quite grouchy about weakness and had berated you for three hours after breaking her ankle before she just dissolved into tears in your arms.

She had apologized over and over again but you couldn’t be mad. She was in pain, she hadn’t slept in days and the case had been rough on everyone. You’d even seen the typically bright Penelope snap at Hotch for asking too much of her. Everyone was on edge.

So, to keep her from going completely stir crazy you’d need constant movies back to back, crossword puzzles for if she felt up to it, medicine, soup, a few books, and a blanket fort on the couch because eventually she’d just straight up refuse to stay in bed.

You glanced at the clock and decided that you probably only had twenty minutes to prepare before the pain in her leg would wake her up. After that it would most likely be borderline impossible to get her back to sleep without a lot of coaxing and perhaps some bribery. As much as she would deny it, Elle was a sucker for cuddles, especially when she was hurt or sick.

For breakfast you decided to make her oatmeal, figuring that you could make something for yourself after she was settled. For a reason that you didn’t quite understand, Elle absolutely loved oatmeal. She would eat it whenever she could and as disgusting as you found it, you knew that it wouldn’t be too rough on her throat or stomach.

It took you two tries to correctly make the oatmeal, somehow managing to burn the oats in the microwave the first time. Perhaps the microwave was not the best choice of tool, but the damn package had said that it would be okay.

Okay turned into the smell of burning and a frighteningly smokey microwave. You let that air out while you cut up a banana to go on top, grumbling about the stupid machine. The second attempt had been successful, leaving you with a steaming bowl of gooey mush that you were sure your girlfriend would enjoy.

You put the banana in the bowl and sprinkled the top of it with a bit of brown sugar, repeating the practiced motions that you’d seen Elle go through every morning. She always teased Reid about the amount of sugar he would put in his coffee, but she would eat a ridiculous amount of sugar with her breakfast if you let her.

After heating up some water for chamomile tea and adding a surplus of honey and lemon you returned to the bedroom to find Elle beginning to stir. She rolled over in the bed and reached across to your side, letting out a small whine when she found your side of the bed cold.

“Morning pretty lady.” You said softly, setting the tray which held her breakfast and a bottle of NyQuil down on the bed. The tea was placed on the bedside table, you were not willing to take the risk of that spilling all over your sick girlfriend. “Y/n? What’s this?” She rasped, turning away to cough into her pillow. She grimaced when she lifted her head again, a pout settling on her lips. She knew that she was sick and was likely realizing that you wouldn't let her do anything today.

“Well, you see, this is the meal typically eaten in the morning. It is widely known as breakfast.” You teased, leaning over to peck her sweaty forehead affectionately. The woman groaned at your teasing, the glint in her eyes showing her amusement.

“M’not hungry. Maybe later?” You shook her head at her weak plea, knowing full well that maybe later would turn into never and she needed to eat something with her med.

“I’m sorry Elle, just eat a little bit and then you can go back to sleep, okay?” She wrinkled her nose, clearly unhappy with the idea but sighed and nodded. You gave her a pleading look and leaned over again, pressing a little kiss to the tip of her nose. It didn’t matter that it was runny, or that she was sniffling quietly, she was cute and the gesture had worked.

“M’kay.” The brunette sighed, a slight wheeze in her breath. You didn’t think that she would get really sick, it was really just a cold with a slight fever, but the wheeze didn’t make you feel good. You’d need to keep an eye on that just in case it turned into something more but you hoped that a few rounds of cold medicine and a lot of sleep would kick this thing in the ass.

She reached for the spoon but you stopped her hand, gesturing to the little cup of medicine.

“That first.”

“…really?”

“Truly.”

She managed to eat nearly half of the oatmeal and you had convinced her to drink all of the tea before she collapsed back onto the pillows looking utterly exhausted. All of the energy seemed to have gone out of her and her eyes looked dull. She coughed quietly and blinked up at you, her cheeks flushing a sudden deep red.

“Aw, baby. I’m sorry you don’t feel well.” You crooned, reaching over to stroke her damp hair. Tears filled her dark eyes and she sniffled hard, trying not to cry. You just continued to card your fingers through her hair, honestly unsure what to say to make her feel better. She was feeling weak, probably less than and you knew that there was nothing that you could say to reassure her that it was okay.

“W-will you l-lay with me?” She finally whimpered, reopening her sad eyes. You smiled and lay back down, positioning yourself over the covers with her cradled against your chest. She was shaking a bit, but you couldn’t tell if it was from crying or fever. Your guess would have to be both.

The brunette dozed off in your arms, her breathing evening to soft congested puffs which hit your chest, reminding you that she was still alive. She was still here. She was safe. You weren’t sure if she’d make it home on the last case, you had sat with her in the hospital trying to hold back tears as you thought of everything that could have gone wrong.

You yawned, reminding yourself that you had gotten practically no sleep the night before. It was always hard for you to sleep after cases, haunted by the faces of those you couldn’t save. Laying there with Elle in your arms made it easier to relax, easier to give in to your exhaustion.

You had fallen into a light doze, awake enough to be aware of your surroundings but asleep enough that you couldn’t interact with them. Elle had been sleeping peacefully beside you, occasionally making quiet noises in her sleep, but nothing that had really sparked your attention. That was until she started thrashing.

You sat up quickly, and grabbed her shoulders, trying to keep her from hurting herself. Of course that only served to panic her further, something you probably should’ve realized before touching you.

“Elle, Elle, it’s just a bad dream. Wake up, wake up sweetie, it’s a bad dream.” You soothed, patting her cheek gently to pull her out of the nightmare. She didn’t wake up, but she relaxed a bit at the soft caress, her frightened yelps turning to soft whimpers.

“Shh, shh that’s right honey, it’s all okay. Shh, I’ve got you. I’ve got you.” You murmured, smiling as she calmed completely, her breaths evening out. The two of you lay like that, you half propped up to make sure that she was safely asleep, not having any more nightmares.

You stayed that way for an hour, finally letting yourself drift off again after you were absolutely sure that she wasn’t having a bad dream. It had been a long time since the woman had been sick and it seemed like her body wasn’t handling it particularly well. That was fine by you, all that mattered was that you would always be there to take care of her.

[ofstarsandskies]

with the beginning of a new year just around the corner, the city of jinzhou was in high spirit. people were merrily going about and enjoying themselves. laughter filled every corner as some prepared for countdown that was to come in only a few minutes. after spending some time with the girls, yinyue excused herself as she descended a more quiet area.

the sight of familiar silhouette of someone came to view, and she smiled to herself without a word. it wasn't surprising to find him tucked away from the crowds and festive atmosphere. he wasn't someone who liked to mingle with people that much, either way. the rover didn't ask if she could join him, however, simply settling herself next to the man as her eyes glanced at him momentarily before lifting up to the sky above.

" a good spot to watch the fireworks. " she commented, allowing the silence to fall between them after. of course, she knew he didn't pick this place to do that, but it didn't matter. there were many things she'd like to ask him, yet, for now, she felt as though it was better to observe from afar of the peace people had fought so hard for. that, and she felt like if she said something sappy, he would reprimand her for speaking of unnecessary things.

so instead of doing that, she took that split second as the fireworks were being shot up to the sky to catch him off-guard. gloved digits pried his mask away just enough for her lips to press to his in a chaste, split-second kiss that left little to no room for retaliation. she was already pulling away by the time he registered what she just did.

" a new year kiss is supposed to bring good luck. " an index pressed over her own lips in a secretive gesture to hide a small triumphed smile spreading across her expression. " looking forward to another year with you, victor. "

@lunaetis || Victor got himself a NY kiss boyz--

"Ten more minutes and it'll be over."

Victor sat alone on a perch on the outskirts of a town--Jinzhou he remembers the locals called it--as it preps a big show for the start of the new year. It ought to be New Years back home as well based on what his GHS tells him. The strange interference keeping him tied to this world doesn't block his calls so he got to talk to Elle at least. Still, physically spending the New Years by himself is a tradition he thought he'd never experience again...

There's thousands of locals beneath him Victor could spend tonight with, but he's a Kresnik. Growing attached to denizens of a world he'll eventually leave behind (or perhaps destroy if there's a catalyst on the loose) leads to unnecessary heartbreak. Putting walls between himself and this world's inhabitants is better for all parties involved.

Alas, logic doesn't negate the feeling he should be at Elle's side with a glass of wine as they welcomed their first New Years as residents of the Prime Dimension--

There's footsteps coming this way. Victor reaches for the hidden holster in his suit, but he relents once he's sure the source isn't here for his head. Although given he's in no mood to reinforce his verbal brick walls, perhaps it would've been better if it was a monster looking for its first meal of the new year.

I don't know why you bother to seek me out, his mind's already on the offensive as Yinyue settles in next to him uninvited, yet Victor doesn't say any of it. The most he does is briefly turn away from her so he can prop his mask back on his face. His expressions give away his emotions too easily without it; the last thing he wants tonight is pity.

"That's surprising to hear-- most would've called this setup lonely as hell."

Victor expects more chatter to follow, yet it doesn't come. A rather welcome oddity he won't question nor ruin as long as he can. The crowd below's lighting up with fire as he strains to hear chants of numbers. Just a handful of seconds and he can think of today like any other and find some secluded hole to sleep his mixed feelings off.

"Are you not going to--?" Victor doesn't finish his question before a hand that isn't his removes his mask, exposing his hideous face to the world just as the fireworks light the night sky. He also fails to ask what the hell's happening as something (he knows what, but he won't say it) touches his lips and shocks him back into silence. It's good his mask wasn't tossed aside or he'd have to explain his deep red cheeks.

"Is it now... I'm not sure whether to call that a convenient excuse or a bluff."

This particular Victor never proposed to Lara like the other Victors who once existed, so any relationship-related superstitions and customs are beyond him. Nova might've mentioned it at some point, but it probably mentioned Julius and he tuned it out.

Regardless of where the truth lies, his risen heart rate's becoming a major bother. His mind's also a total mess of too many emotions: embarrassment, shock, confusion, and above all... guilt.

If you knew my intentions, you'd regret saying that to me.

Victor can't bring himself to ruin the moment, so he opts for the much easier classic phrase, "Happy New Year to you as well, Yinyue. I hope that tradition of yours works both ways before I'm having to say my--" He almost admitted a truth he'd sooner take to the grave. "Forget it. Just try to wield this New Year's Kiss luck to keep yourself alive. Heaven knows trouble seems to orbit around those I know."

[cilil]

The Ifenkönig

Characters: Finwë, Míriel, Námo, mentions of Vairë and Nienna Synopsis: When Míriel falls ill after childbirth, Finwë tries to take her to the gardens of Lórien for healing; however, the Lord of the Dead already has his sights set on her. Warnings: Sickness, death, dark!Námo Poetry

Also available on AO3

Disclaimer: This isn't an original poem written by me, this is based on and adapted from "Erlkönig" by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Edgar Alfred Bowring's English translation of the poem (both of which you can read here). It's a sort of "remix" if you will, just as a fun little exercise because I had this random idea of a darker verse in which Námo actively takes Míriel's soul and this poem fits the vibe.

Title translation and explanation will be down below.

Who rides so late through the night dark and drear?

King Finwë it is, with his lady wife dear.

He holds her tightly embraced in his arm,

He holds her tenderly and keeps her warm. 

“My dear lady, wherefore d’you avert your eye?”

“Do you not see, my lord, the Doomsman close by? 

Do you not see him, with death veil and dark train?”

“Dearest, it must be mist rising over the plain.”

“Oh come to me, lovely Míriel, ere midnight falls 

For there’s peace, quiet and healing in my halls;

From a safe distance, we shall watch fate unfold

And my lady shall adorn you with robes of gold.”

“Oh husband, husband, but do you not hear

The words the Judge whispers in my ear?”

“Be calm, dear wife, your fancy deceives

It is only the wind whispering through leaves.”

“Won’t you, dear Míriel, accompany me there?

I shall leave you in my sister’s loving care;

I shall give you to my wife to keep

She shall sing and hold you in your sleep.”

“Oh husband, husband, but do you not see

The Doomsman brought wife and sister for me?”

“My love, my love, it is quite alright

The mist again is deceiving your sight.”

“My wife, as am I, is charmed by your beauty,

Come with me now, to fulfil my duty.”

“Oh husband, husband, I fear he takes me at last

His hands hold my soul, he’s seizing me fast.”

King Finwë now hurries, afraid for her life

He holds in his arms his shivering wife 

He reaches the gardens with terror and dread

His queen he finds silent, unmoving and dead.

Ifen (also If, Ibe, Eve, Eue) -> Eibe -> Yew König -> King The yew tree is commonly associated with death.

The original title, Erlkönig, translated as Erl-King (the literal meaning being alder (tree) king), comes from the Danish word elle which, according to several sources, can mean either alder or elf, so it's possible that Johann Gottfried Herder - who translated the material that Goethe later adapted originally - made an error; it's also possible he intentionally chose this meaning.

Ergo, the Erl-King could also be an Elf-King, which I thought was a neat tidbit to mention for my fellow Tolkien fans ^^

Thanks for reading!♡

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[intertexts]

OK. OK OK OK. HI. IM AT WORK NOW SO THIS IS GONNA BE DISJOINTED AND NOT MAKE A WHOLE LOT OF SENSE BUT IM COOKING SO THIS REQUIRES AN ASK AND NOT A REPLY BC THOSE HAVE CHARACTER LIMITS (cooking both metaphorically and literally because it's 95 degrees outside at 9am and it is so so so so fucking humid) oh god get me out of the kitchen before i start burning things!!!

this could be Nothing. bc again I desperately need 2 learn more about cauldron and their motivations and such. BUT. going back to the tide/leviathan comparisons because they're making me kind of insane and i want to give him a Complex about it. because if we're not going to lobotomize him I need 2 hurt him in other ways (sorry dad)

so. this doesn't EXACTLY work 1:1 because there are only 3 endbringers and only 2 of them seem to be element-focused as far as i know. but if we have tide as a comparison to leviathan, we also have MAGMA who could be a comparison to behemoth if my thoughts are correct and behemoth is . big fire guy (he sleeps in a volcano so. I'm assuming.) . granted we also have like. whirlwind and shockwave and seismic who are the other elementals and they don't actually have an endbringer counterpart BUT IM !!!! going a little crazy thinking about like. if tide + his siblings are artificial capes, what if they (or at least he and magma because I'm kind of thinking abt them as the older ones. havent listened to the oneshot in a while so this may not be accurate) were given their powers SPECIFICALLY to be counters to the endbringers. or at least in an attempt to make a cape equivalent of the endbringers to better like... study their powerset or something. (I keep saying cauldron studies things bc I said that with david too and this really just comes from my inherent need for a big evil science team. in worm it seems like they're more capitalism focused but let a guy dream here)

this also brings up an interesting point with Elle who i know u don't know yet but she could be an interesting counterpoint to simurgh? Who as far as I know now isn't necessarily elemental but . neither is Elle really!! and that creates the big disaster in the oneshot bc she can't control her powers and goes kind of nuts about it.

anyway anyway anyway. tldr; tide and magma were specifically created as parallels to leviathan and behemoth, this wouldn't really be common knowledge to the rest of the capes bc of cauldrons secrecy BUT i think ppl would definitely notice the similarities in their powersets and that makes a subconscious fear response in people who have seen an endbringer attack firsthand (I believe in scary intimidating tide supremacy but then you talk to him and he's the sweetest human being in the whole world) . tide and magma both know this and have complicated emotions about it. I think tide has a very bad reaction to the leviathan attack if we are keeping that as an event that happens.

OR IT COULD ALL BE COINCIDENCE AND THIS IS NOTHING. but until i learn more about cauldron I am choosing to view them as my favorite trope of big evil science corporation <3333

OHH U R FUCKING COOKING DUDE YEAH <333

it is. so hard whenever u r talking about cauldron.... mallard conway ass levels of "oh okay i literally Cannot talk about this or else im accidentally gonna say spoilers." but. i DO think this goes so hard & conceivably makes sense for cauldron to do...... man one day in the far future we're gonna have to sit down and talk about if cauldron even would exist in this au. but. for now. hehehe :33 & i will say!!! i will say!!! research is. involved, in what they do. you are not off the mark.

ANYWAY. love this for him so much..... the way he moves and acts in a fight echoes leviathan.... does he have that water afterimage too??? when he's fighting?? because that shits cool as hell he should have it. i'm always just really ill over someone made to be a weapon who never wanted to be one.... tide you have to be at the leviathan fight but you shouldn't be :(((

i gotta listen to the elementals oneshot i have it downloaded rn.. i wanna know elle's deal because you have just said something unwittingly extremely funny & i need to know What happens to her before i comment on it!!!! anyway!!!! thinking abt tide lambert forever & always...

[welcometololaland]

Getting to know you!

thanks for the tags @hippolotamus @jesuisici33 @rmd-writes <3 my beloveds! i feel like everyone in this part of the internet knows everything about me because i love to overshare, so hopefully this isn't majorly boring!!!!

last song: Supercut (El-P Remix) - Lorde ft. Run the Jewels and El-P.

favourite colour: a really inky midnight blue.

currently watching: re-runs of veronica mars lmao i'm very predictable.

last movie: trial of the chicago seven. i liked it - the judge infuriated me!!! made me so mad!!!! could barely sit still!!

sweet/spicy/savoury: savoury with a bit of spice. i'm sweet enough as it is ;)

relationship status: married to the world's most patient person. my partner deserves a nobel peace prize for dealing with me, i swear.

current obsession (long list, sorry): spring cleaning my house, injuring myself (constant), fragrance discovery sets, yabbies, working towards my upward eagle in pole, organising a girls trip with my old school friends, meeting @rmd-writes in person (finally!), anything related to meet you after dark by @strandnreyes, working out why america loves referring to its geography in terms of belts and harassing many mutuals about it (apologies to those tagged as well as @lightningboltreader and @pragmatic-optimist), friend podcasts from @actual-sleeping-beauty, going to the grocery store, trying new things from the bulk bins and exchanging a tastiness rating with @celeritas2997, my new co-writing projects and reading all of your snippets on WIP Wednesday - they were all so fucking amazing pat on the back for all of you legends (please take this as an open tag for all fandoms!!!!).

tagging everyone on tumblr (tag me back, i'm nosy) as well as: @bonheur-cafe @ladytessa74 @cha-melodius @catanisspicy @cold-blooded-jelly-doughnut @carlos-in-glasses @st-elle-ar (once again i come for you) @statueinthestone @firstprince-history-huh @mistmarauder @sarnagati @wandering-night19 @theghostofashton @basilsunrise @redshirt2 @sunshinestrand @thebumblecee @reasonandfaithinharmony @tailoredshirt @annefraid @strandtk @guardian-angle22 @whattarush @tylerposey @cafeshopau @3416 @maxbegone @lutavero @cobbbvanth @userstrand @gay-bucky-barnes @dawntainbobbynash @rosedavid @rafael-silva @chaotictarlos @ramonaflow @sugdenlovesdingle @lyhrcyrianne

[maneskinthoughts]

vic almost a virgin? Lol I swear some fans are very naive.

First of all of course she was with Elle, they were attached to the hip for the entire summer 2022 and Vic had even posted a photo of them showing together topless on their vacation. When you see two girls being everywhere together for a short amount of time and then they're never seen together again it's because they were scissoring not because they're best friends who braided each other's hair lol and now Elle doesn't even follow Vic anymore or Vic her.

Also, between Janis and Luna Vic was single for about a year (Not counting Elle because i think it wasn't an official relationship but something more casual) and was definitely whoring around (and good for her). There were rumors about her hooking up with a fan in Brazil, then she was photographed at a club in Denmark in December 2022 with some other model. What do you think vic was doing during her single era, practicing abstinence? 😭 she was eating pussy left and right.

and third, she isn't even faithful to Luna lol. Or they don't have a monogamous relationship. Because last year during the rush tour Vic hooked up with a model who's kinda big on Instagram. They weren't even that subtle but most Måneskin fans are so up Damiano's ass waiting for him to breathe near any woman to invent rumors that Vic could fuck a girl in front of them and they wouldn't notice.

Anyway, don't try to make homegirl some shy prude because you think it's only cool for the men of the band to sleep around

OMG, details please!

[novashelby]

I remember that as a little kid I’d always gently stroke my dad’s ear in order to self soothe and sleep. It was particularly during naps and before going to bed. I can’t help but think of evie. Does she have a certain habit involving tommy to help her sleep or relax when being a child? I imagine evie wanting to stroke his ear and him rolling his eyes thinking ‘fucking ell… again’ but secretly missing those little moments as she grows older

Two things! Evie would sleep every night in his bed until she was about 12. Actually, 12 and a half. Until Polly was like...."Tommy...." But she'd sprawl out and take over the whole entire bed. She'd even somehow rotate so that her foot was on his face. She did stop eventually. She loves to sit on his lap. Which, I think a lot of the family thinks is weird. But she loves to sit on his lap. Even as an adult. She loves to scratch his head, too, but that isn't really a self soothing thing. She does it to everyone in the family. It's like complimentary head massages with Evie. Except when she points out the gray hairs.

[forabeatofadrum]

Find My Way

Summary: Vivian realises that Warner will never respect her.

Notes: I am on a Christian Borle binge after rewatching Falsettos, which also revived my love for the musical version of Legally Blonde. I always loved how they changed Vivian's reaction towards Callahan kissing Elle. I know that the point of the reaction in the movie is to show how people are quick to judge Elle, but I also found it really powerful to see Vivian starting to support Elle. And I also think that this is probably the reason Vivian broke off the engagement. I want to explore Vivian's thoughts with this fic, so enjoy!

AO3

--

Vivian is staring at her ceiling. She's barely slept last night. She keeps replaying what happened over and over in her head.

Professor Callahan kissed Elle without her consent, Elle slapped him, and Callahan fired her. There's no denying that what happened to Elle is vile.

But the thing that Vivian cannot stop thinking about is Warner's reaction.

Warner witnessed the same thing. How could he act like Elle is to blame here? Vivian told Warner to stop 'teasing' her after it happened, and then they left.

Should Vivian have left?

She remembers the look on Elle's face when she realises she's been seen. And for a split second, Vivian had hesitated. But then Elle turned around and saw her hesitating and the next thing Vivian knows, she's followed Warner outside.

"Is anyone surprised?" Warner had said afterwards with a smug smile. He really seemed to revel in the fact that Elle only got her internship because of her looks.

Vivian kept quiet. She also kept quiet when Warner asked if she wanted to come back to his room. She left without a word, leaving Warner dumbfounded. Vivian didn't want to go back to his room. She wanted to forget this all happened.

So she went back to her room, ate some pot noodles, read some law books for fun, because yes, she does that, and then got ready for bed.

But she couldn't sleep. And now her alarm has rung and Vivian is awake in her bed, staring at her ceiling.

Her mind is racing, even though she didn't want to think about it. But why doesn't she want to think about it? This happened. This is assault. Isn't it kind of messed up that Vivian wants to act like she hasn't seen it? That she wants to move on and pretend it never happened?

She's read many stories of women in similar situations. She knows these things happen and now Elle's victim of it too.

Vivian's head is a mess. She doesn't want to sweep this under the rug, but by pretending it never happened, she will. But what can Vivian do? Professor Callahan controls everyone's career, including hers.

How can Elle be helped?

"Us girls need to stick together" is what Elle had said after they first met and Vivian thought that was ridiculous. The other girls are competition in this male-dominated field. And Elle is competition in another way.

Elle is gorgeous.

Elle is Warner's ex.

Elle is everything Vivian can never be when it comes to looks and charm.

Vivian isn't stupid. She knows that Warner is still hung up on her. Vivian might be wearing Warner's ring, but in the end, it means nothing. Vivian has had to sit next to Warner slipping up and calling Elle cute names. She's witnessed him flailing over her. She's seen how Warner has even tried to use his feelings to convince Elle from time to time.

That's why Vivian accepted Warner's proposal. She wanted to shove it in Elle's face that Warner is hers, but who is she kidding.

Well, Vivian has been kidding herself all this time. She comes off as confident, but Vivian's been comparing herself to Elle ever since Elle first stepped foot into that classroom. Again, Elle is everything that Warner wants. She's got the looks and the brains.

Vivian has the brains, but she will never blow Warner away with her looks. She'll always be less than Elle. Vivian's known this, and become of this she's refused to become close to Elle. Sure, during the Brooke Wyndham case, she's realised that Elle is capable and she's started respecting her on a professional way, but in the end, Elle's Vivian's rival.

Elle is perfect.

Elle is what Warner wants.

Elle is the ideal woman in Warner's eyes, since she has the pretty face and the beautiful body.

And yet, Warner has no problems absolutely tearing Elle down when he thinks she deserves it. It was cruel. It was unjust. Callahan forced himself on Elle and Warner acts as if this was always going to happen, as if no one can blame Callahan for it.

Elle is perfect.

Elle has the looks.

So Elle must've asked for it, in a way, right?

Right?

Vivian feels sick when she thinks about it. Being a woman in a male-dominated field is already rough. It hasn't gone unnoticed that Enid and Vivian keep getting other tasks. Callahan has never asked Emmett or Warner to get him a coffee. Callahan has also never asked Elle any of that, and Vivian was jealous of her, but now that she knows why Elle was heavily favoured by Callahan, she feels stupid for ever thinking Elle had it easier.

Callahan only boosted Elle's career with an ulterior motive. He never saw her potential.

And Warner agrees.

And if Warner has no issues treating Elle, who is the person Vivian's up against when it comes to his affection, like that, then what does that mean for Vivian? If Warner can treat Elle, the perfect girlfriend, like that, then how will he treat Vivian during their marriage?

Then it hits Vivian.

She should've seen this coming from miles away, but better late than never.

Warner will never treat her well.

The realisation is horrible, even though it's an obvious fact. Vivian is lying in her bed in her own sweat. She's started panicking and now the truth cannot get away.

Warner will never respect her.

Tears stream down Vivian's face, hitting the pillow.

The worst part is that it breaks Vivian's heart. She does love Warner. Yes, she's also marrying him out of spite, to show Elle she's won, but the reason she wants to win and has been painting Elle as her rival is because she wants to be Warner's.

All this time she was jealous of Elle. All this time, she has seen Elle as nothing more than competition. She saw Elle as a threat who was possibly going to take Warner from her, and why wouldn't Warner want to be with Elle?

But Warner was never going to respect Elle, the same way he's never going to respect Vivian.

--

Vivian cries until there are no more tears left to cry. It feels good, though. She's still heartbroken, but it's good to let it out. It's been a while since she's allowed herself to feel anything like this. She was too busy being the perfect law student and the perfect girlfriend. Crying didn't fit those images.

Her head is clearer now. She knows what she needs to do. It will be easier to act as if nothing's happened, but Vivian has values. She cannot sweep this under the rug, no matter how much easier her career will go.

And this also cannot end Elle's career.

Vivian needs to find Elle. The team and Brooke need her. Vivian mentally creates a plan that involves calling Emmett. He must know where to find her. And Vivian will also call Enid for help. It's time for all of them to work together. Vivian will bring Elle back and she will show her that Callahan was wrong.

"Us girls need to stick together" rings in her head. Elle was right. It's time to stop seeing Elle as competition and it's time to start seeing her as the person who can win this case.

But before that, she needs to see Warner. Vivian drags herself out of bed, puts make-up on her face to hide her exhaustion and sadness, and gets dressed in one of her many business casual looks.

Her engagement ring is lying on her vanity.

She picks it up with a sad smile and curls her fingers around it. Once, this ring meant to much to her. It was a sign that she was better than Elle, at least in one way.

But now she's ready to give it back to Warner, a man she loves, but a man who will never love her.

It's time to choose for herself. It's time to be free from this nonsense competition.

She leaves her dorm room and makes her way to Warner's room.

[wolfsbanemanor]

Headcanuary Day 14: Memory

(Oh, boy. Yikes...alright. I'm going to post under a cut.)

Caleb is plagued by painful, vivid memories of the night he was turned into a vampire. They keep him awake when he should be sleeping. So many times, he finds himself in that bathroom, pinned under a punk-rocker woman he had never met before that night. So many times, she violates his mind and body. So many times, he can feel her cold hands on him, with their sharp nails. So many times, he tries to fight her off, tells her to stop, but she doesn't listen. So many times, no one comes to his aid, or even realizes that unspeakable horror is happening behind that door, too wrapped up in their own goings-on, unable to hear anything because of the loud music. So many times, he feels her cold wetness, her strong grip, her sharp fangs, the fuzziness in his head. So many times, he hears her voice. So many times, he sees those glowing green eyes, boring deep into his soul. So many times, she seals the deal by biting him, and then forcing him to drink her blood. So many times, he's left there, alone and bleeding on that cold, dirty tile. So many times, he wakes up screaming and shaking. He is also plagued by memories of a biiiiiiig mistake he made when he was a new vampire. He had let his Thirst level get too low, because he had been trying to resist it, and found himself drawn into the bedroom of a girl named Inna Cents. (No, not like that.) He wasn't fully in control of himself, and bit her, and ended up taking too much blood from her. When he finally came to his senses, there was this dying girl in his arms, and the only way to (sort of) save her was to turn her into a vampire. He had never felt so rotten in his life. He felt as if he'd become as bad as Vlad, or even worse, Miss Hell. To make matters worse, Vlad found out about this incident, and praised him in front of the other vampires, and threw a big party in his honor. Caleb didn't feel like he deserved it. Like, at all. He decided that he wasn't going to abandon Inna, that he would do whatever he could to do right by her as her Maker. They did end up having a relationship, but because of Caleb's guilt, and Inna being a little bit unhappy with him, it didn't last long. Inna moved in with Elle DeVampiro and Vlad Bloodvein when she was turned, but after her rather messy breakup with Caleb, she moved out on her own. Where to, he isn't sure. Her number has been disconnected...or at least, that's what that polite, automated voice says. He hopes she's okay. Memories of seeing Miss Hell again at Straud Mansion. Memories of raising a toast with her and Vlad, and having to pretend everything was okay, even though a million alarms were going off in his mind. Memories of hiding from her after that, only for her to find him and attempt to make him woohoo her again. Luckily, Lilith intervened. Memories of finding out that Vlad was the one who had turned Miss Hell, and being enraged. Did he know? Did he care? It's one thing to turn someone into a vampire, but to do what she had done is quite another. Memories of standing on the edge of the railing over that balcony at Straud Mansion, about to end it all. He just wanted this nightmare to end. (He knew that even vampires could meet their end from a high-enough fall.) Memories of being grabbed from behind by a tearful Lilith, and deciding not to go through with it. Looking back now, he's glad he didn't...mostly. And also, some happy memories. Memories that are actually welcome. Memories of playing the piano for his family. Helping his mom make cookies. How unexpectedly supportive his dad was when he caught him fooling around with another boy. Playing with Lilith and Lily. Opening presents on Winterfest. Being held by his mother. The fridge, covered in artwork produced by himself and Lilith, and A+ schoolwork. Summers spent playing in the waves at Brindleton Bay. It's these memories that keep him going.

[midoridragonuus]

comeuppance

< previous | compendium | next > From: ellieschwartz@schwartzind.co To: all@schwartzind.co

Attachment: restructuring58xx.pdf

-

Schwartz Industries // Memo 050820XX

Effective Immediately

We are excited to announce a restructuring effort that will affect various parts of our complex. All department heads are required to read the attached document and discuss it internally with every employee.

A new third shift schedule is attached, which may cause initial disruption to various functions. However, this is non-negotiable and a change in hours due to industry requirements is included in every standard employee contract. Those with medical needs or have children have had an additional document sent that includes employee accommodations.

Schwartz Industries is entering into a new era once again.

Let's welcome change, and the future!

-

"What the hell is this?" A thick hand slammed down a printed copy of the memo on a massive desk.

The sheer force of which the paper was placed caused the sitting woman's bangs to sway. She huffed in annoyance at the disturbance. "It's exactly what it says it is - a restructuring memo. Can you not read?"

Gabriel frowned, his hands moving from the memo to his hips as he leaned over Ellie's desk. "Stop playing cute. What the hell is going on?"

"I don't know what you mean," she shrugged as she ran thin fingers through her hair and returned to looking at another stack of papers.

"You don't know what I mean," Gabriel repeated. While most words from his lips were dripping with sarcasm or jest, this was laced with venom. He reached over, pulling the stack of papers from her hand and tossing them to the side. "You know damn well what I mean. What is this? All of this? This is the first I'm hearing about any restructuring."

"Good," she frowned. "Because it's the first we're talking about it."

"Who's this 'we'?" he shouted. "It sure as hell isn't the Board of Directors for this company! No one else I talked to knew about this. Which, for a fortune 500 company? Not a good look, kiddo."

Ellie sighed again. She locked fingers and leaned forward to look the man square in the face. "Who do you think? This is Schwartz Industries. She calls the shots. I send out the paperwork. When has it ever been different?"

The two locked eyes, causing Gabriel to mirror a frown. Ellie's eyes were different. Instead of the warm glow of fiery embers, they were dark. Cold. They lacked color, save for the faintest hints of what they once were. He tried to lean closer to observe them in more detail, but the woman pushed back from her desk and turned to face the city through the massive windows behind her.

"Why are you acting so blasé about this?" Gabe straightened and crossed his arms in defiance. It was a half-hearted defense, as he didn't particularly want to pick a fight with Ellie. But this…? It was unacceptable and he was the only one willing to speak his mind while the others shrugged in resignation. "Are you even thinking about the other employees? Who's going to work at my bar?"

"Is that what this is about?" The chair squeaked as she turned - face marred by the most sour look. "You're worried about your bar in a time like this?"

He shook his head. "No. Kinda. …Bad example. It's not about the money, Elle. It's the people."

"And you're their martyr?" she scoffed. "Since when?"

"I'm sorry that I care about my employees. Their work at my bar is their second job. Now you're giving them a third. Where's the time to eat? Sleep? Shit?"

"Again…" The words sat on her lips like poison on the rim of a cauldron. "Since when are you their martyr? When's the last time you even talked to one of your employees outside of work?"

"Not the point," he growled.

"I think it is." Ellie closed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose. At least that hadn't changed - when she was stressed, it'd build tension in her face and her nose would scrunch in pain. "You're here to start an argument you have no chance of winning, because you aren't fighting me, you're fighting a policy that's already in place. You have no backing, because if you haven't noticed, you're here alone. None of your employees are here. They don't care. No one cares. It's just life, Gabriel. It is what it is. I don't get what you're trying to accomplish."

The man paused, letting the words wash over him like a torrid rain. She wasn't wrong. Conceptually, anyway. He couldn't really argue against her points. because none of what she said was his real counter. She would have known that if she were herself. Ellie had a way of digging into him and unearthing his true motives better than anyone else. It's why he had fallen for her in the first place. But ever since she had re-appeared, something changed.

He had watched her walk through a field of shattered glass, suspended in the air. And just as quickly as he watched her take a step, she had vanished. Ellie was gone. The light imprints in the carpet from her boots halted midway - only the faint outline of her heel was left. He had reached out to stop her, fingers grasping at the lingering scent of her perfume. And then he passed out.

When he woke up, it was to two strangers. At least, that's what it seemed to be when Ellie magically re-appeared next to a man he'd never seen before. She insisted it was her brother, James. But Ellie didn't have a brother. He knew that. That was one of the first things he knew about her, and he remembered a small twinge of jealousy at her being an only child when he had four.

Faced with confusion, panic, and adrenaline built from his own injury, he bolted. It was a shameful habit, and one that bit him in the ass more than it helped. But that was his nature, and there was no arguing with instinct when fight or flight kicked in.

As if fate descended from the heavens and imparted itself on him, an e-mail urged him to meet with the mysterious Carlos Saavas. Of course, even that hadn't gone over well. He'd been cornered by two people who unnerved him to the core - Prophet and the sketchy doctor. Unfortunately, he had been in such a panic after losing sight of Ellie that he wasn't in the right state of mind to listen to whatever the others had to say. He pushed his way out of that room as well and had been actively avoiding them at every turn. Prophet's smile every time they even glanced his direction caused his stomach to flip. It teetered on anger.

In a moment of clarity, he had ran to security to pull tapes when he spotted the woman sitting in the cafeteria as if nothing even happened. He ran to confront her - ask if she was alright - ask what happened. She stared at him incredulously, eyebrows raised in concern. He could still hear her words rattling around in his head.

'I don't know what you're talking about. I've been in my office all day, except now. Obviously.'

Those words struck like a cold needle to his spine. He knew what he saw. And as much as he loathed both Prophet and Carlos, they confirmed his version of events. If two separate people he didn't trust agreed, then either he was being manipulated, they all were crazy, or he truly saw what he saw. He was willing to bet on the latter.

When he reviewed the security tapes, there was nothing spectacular. In fact, it seemed to support option two - there was nothing in the hall. No shards of glass. No Ellie. Just Gabriel himself having what looked like a panic attack. He took a copy to a friend who couldn't find anything unusual. There wasn't any evidence of tampering, editing, or magical interference. There was nothing, and the man was once again torn between insanity and a cover-up.

But now… Now there was no question. The Ellie sitting before him, arguing about whatever inane change to the complex's schedule wasn't the Ellie that disappeared. He refused to believe it. Ellie was short-tempered. Lively. She could be worked up easily and matched his passion. Normally, she'd be overwhelmed and stressed by the sheer amount of work on her desk. The Ellie he saw now seemed almost bored by it. There was no passion left. There was nothing that remained of the person he'd grown to care for.

"You're not Ellie," he stated, jabbing a finger at her. There was no hesitation in his voice.

"Oh my Gods," she sighed. "You can't be seri-"

"Deadly." The man cut her off mid-sentence and pushed a stack of papers onto the floor for a reaction. She looked… bemused. Surprised by his audacity, maybe. But of every emotion painted on her freckled face, none of it was anger.

"Gabe-"

The man turned on his heel and headed for the door. He paused before leaving. "And this? It isn't over. Not by a long shot." Because now she knew that he knew, and that was the first step in his plan.

-

Ellie sat back, dumbfounded at what had happened. She replayed the entire situation in her head twice, and still was no closer to a conclusion.

After several minutes of silence, interrupted only by the ticking of the clock, she reached for the phone and dialed a new extension.

There was no voice on the other end. The only clue she had was a click, followed by light breathing on the other end.

"He knows," she whispered.