#energy star washing machine

[avonengineering]

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[tenrose]

My ability to read after work is intricately linked to my ability to perform a house chores during the week in a way I can't explain 🤷

[tired-truffle]

Even the Gods Cry For Us

A Viktorxfem!reader fic

Chapter Word Count: 6.9k

Part 17/17

Tag list: @im-just-a-simp-le-whore @potatointhedirt @dedicated2viktor (if anyone else would like to be tagged with future updates let me know!)

“You have me. Until every last star in the galaxy dies. You have me.” - Amie Kaufman

Masterlist

Burning and shredding, you felt yourself being torn apart and remade, your mind split and shattered only to be pieced back together again.

You were everywhere and everywhen at once. Threads, intersecting and glimmering spread out before you, like a hundred violins smashed together, strings overlapping as they cried a haunting tune. Your hand reached out, brushing against the gossamer strands, and visions unlike any other flooded your mind.

You stood atop the ruins of Piltover, your hand intertwined with Viktor's. His mask was gone, revealing a face covered in glowing Hextech augmentations. You wore a crown of twisted metal and crackling energy, your eyes ablaze with power. The city below was a spectacle of gleaming chrome and pulsing light, every citizen augmented and connected to a vast network. You had remade the world in Viktor’s image, free from the tyranny of emotion and human frailty. But as you looked upon your perfect creation, a hollowness echoed within your chest where your heart used to be.

Another thread pulled you in, and you were beset by rage and grief. Piltover burned around you, great plumes of smoke rising into the blood-red sky. Your magic, fueled by anguish, tore through the city like a hurricane. Buildings crumbled, bridges collapsed, and the screams of the dying filled the air. You kneeled at the epicentre of the destruction, tears streaming down your ash-covered face as you cradled Viktor's broken body. Sobs heaved from your chest, strings of spit strung between your teeth as you cried, open-mouthed and feral. He had died trying to stop you, and in your madness, you had struck him down. As the last remnants of the city fell, you realized too late the cost of your vengeance.

Tossed again like a doll held by a rambunctious little girl, you were thrown into a jarringly different scene. Piltover was saved, but at a terrible price. You stood before a cheering crowd, hailed as part of the city's saviours. Jayce stood beside you, his face grim but grateful. But Viktor was gone. You had stopped his plan, prevented the destruction he would have wrought, but in doing so, you had lost him forever. As the crowd's adulation washed over you, you felt nothing but a numbing emptiness, a black hole in your chest that sucked in everything that made you, you.

You pulled back, gasping, overwhelmed by the intensity of the visions. But they kept coming, each one more vivid than the last.

In one, you and Viktor worked together, using your combined powers to heal the rift between Piltover and Zaun. You saw yourself mediating disputes, your empathy tempering Viktor's logic, your magic able to give him his emotions back and keep him level. The two cities flourished, technology and humanity in perfect balance. But the constant struggle wore on you both, and you saw the light in Viktor's eyes dim with each passing year, slowly becoming more machine than human, going too far for even your magic to reach.

Another showed you alone, wandering the world as an immortal being of pure magic. You had absorbed so much power that your human form had burned away entirely. Centuries passed in the blink of an eye as you drifted, searching for meaning, for connection, for anything to fill the Viktor-shaped void in your heart.

Thread after thread, timeline after timeline unfolded before you - for that was what they were, all possible futures. In some, you ruled. In others, you destroyed. In a few, you saved the world. But in none of them did you truly have Viktor - the man you loved, whole and happy and by your side.

Ethereal and serene as freshly fallen snow, Soraka's voice echoed through the swirling chaos of timelines, gentle yet insistent. "You must choose a path," she urged.

You hadn’t expected to hear her again, and though you couldn’t see her through the haze of the shimmering strands, you found an odd comfort that she was there with you, at the end. She had made this all possible in the first place, hadn’t she? It seemed only fitting.

But you had suffered enough and you refused to accept a future without Viktor, without the love and happiness you both deserved. With grim determination, you reached out, not to grasp a single thread, but to gather them all in your hands. The timelines thrummed with power, vibrating against your skin like living things.

"I will make my own path," you declared, your voice resonating with newfound purpose and the lost dreams of those who should have lived to see them come to fruition. "I'll carve it from the bedrock and brimstone if I have to."

The how was yet to make itself clear, but you could feel the immense power that ran through the threads, magic calling to magic, begging to be used.

Soraka appeared by your side, but she was no longer the same as when you last saw her. Her once violet skin and warrior's attire had been replaced with an otherworldly form, one that radiated with divine power - one that befitted a goddess.

Her skin, pale as the morning sky, glowed with soft moonlight from within. Robes of the finest silks in shades of gold, azure, and white adorned her slender frame, her large sleeves giving her a royal air. A horn crafted from emerald stone sat atop her forehead, framed by an ornate crown and the soft tresses of pure white hair. Her gown cascaded down to cover her legs, the skirt shimmering as though it was made of gently flowing water.

Her eyes, filled with infinite compassion, met yours. "You walk a dangerous path, little one," she said softly. "But I cannot deny the strength of your love."

A single tear rolled down her cheek, glowing with celestial light. As it fell, she caught it, holding it out to you. "You will need this," she said, her voice tinged with both sorrow and hope. "A fragment of divine essence, freely given. May it provide the last piece that you require."

You took the tear, feeling its warmth pulse against your palm. "Thank you," you whispered, your voice thick and trembling.

Soraka smiled. "Good luck," she said simply, before fading away, leaving you alone with your monumental task.

You clutched the threads and the tear, feeling their power buzzing against your skin like a heartbeat. With a deep breath, you closed your eyes and let yourself fall into the cosmic tapestry.

The threads wrapped around you, a story of infinite possibilities. Soraka's tear dissolved, seeping into your soul. Power surged through you, raw and primal. It was like swallowing a star, your body incandescent with energy.

You were the eye of a hurricane, the calm center as madness swirled around you. Memories and futures crashed together like tectonic plates, grinding and reshaping reality. Your mind expanded, consciousness stretching across time and space.

You were the stars, the inky vast expanse of nothingness that cradled them in its hands. You were the sun, the moon, the wishes that children made when light streaked across the sky. Your hair blended with the cosmos, your eyes alight with their eternal shine. Hope and love and dreams made real. 

This was what you were meant to be; a bringer of comfort, a being of protection. 

Colours you'd never seen before painted your vision. Sounds beyond human comprehension filled your ears. You tasted stardust and felt the birth of galaxies in your bones.

Souls burned like small golden balls of flame all around you. Everywhere you looked you saw them, drifting, floating, winking out as others took their space. Your teeth rattled with their rage, their terror, your lips tingling with their joy and love and laughter. Curiosity plucked at your ribs, grief squeezed at your heart. It was chaos and confusion, a little boy lost in a bustling city, crying for his father, a young woman navigating her new school campus, afraid of being away from home for the first time in her life. It was the warmth of putting one’s feet up by the fire after a long day out in the snow, a cat curling up in their owner's lap, digging their nails into soft flesh as they purred their satisfaction - even as it hurt. 

It was everything, and by the gods it was beautiful. 

Like floating down a trickling stream, you turned, seeking, searching, reaching out with the love that tangled like vines around your heart, grown into the steady beat until it became one. 

And the flow of your love was met with its reflection, the love that was given so freely to you - once lost, but found again. You would have sobbed your relief, made rivers form from mountains as you eroded the weathered rock with your salty tears, but contentment took its place. 

Swooping towards the pull of your mirrored heart like a bird fluttering in a gentle breeze, you came upon the ethereal golden glow of the two souls that belonged to those you held dear. 

“—must go, Jayce, and take Milá with you.” The unmistakable accent of Viktor’s voice floated through the stars, through your fingers and up to your ears. 

“We finish this together, and you know she would never abandon you either.” Jayce, firm in his conviction, his soul pulsing with the strength of his belief. 

You chuckled, the sound reverberating through the emptiness as the souls turned their attention to you. As swift as the wind at the front of a storm head, you closed the remaining distance, and blinked, the souls glowing softly in one moment, and in the next, floated the two men on the precipice of ending this war. 

Jayce, with his flowing locks and scruffy beard, watched you with awe in his dark eyes.

And Viktor, your lovely, sweet Viktor, looking just as you remembered before the changes - his hair shining a startling white, but beneath you knew the waves of chestnut remained - reached towards you, hand outstretched and curious. But you were much too large, your form stretched across the night sky, and his palm took up no more space than a freckle upon your cheek. Still, you leaned into his touch, into the soft curves of his fingers, his calluses.

“Milácku,” he whispered with reverence, eyes wide and lips parted.

“He’s right,” you said, your voice falling over them like a rain. “I’m not going anywhere. You do your work, and I’ll do mine. Deal?” 

“A team, like always,” Jayce agreed, holding his hand out for Viktor, arcane stone in his palm. 

There was nothing left for you to say, and as Viktor reached for his partner, you stretched and grew until they sat in the palm of your hands, glowing souls that collided in a blinding array of sparks. 

You wove your magic around them, a shimmering cocoon of starlight and dreams made real. As they burned brighter, you felt their souls pulsing with power, their essences intertwining. Your cosmic fingers gently cradled them, keeping them safe as the energy built to a new height.

You watched, breathless, as streams of magic curled around Viktor and Jayce, binding them together in a dance of light and shadow. Their forms blurred, becoming indistinct as they merged with the arcane energy.

Colours exploded outward, each hue carrying a memory, an emotion. You saw flashes of their shared past - late nights in the lab, heated arguments that turned to laughter, quiet moments of understanding. Love, frustration, hope, and determination. It was all there, and it was stunning.

The light grew blinding, forcing you to squint even with your cosmic eyes. You felt the surge building and your heart raced, a staccato rhythm that echoed through the vastness of space.

With a soundless roar, Viktor and Jayce's combined energy erupted. The force of it threatened to tear reality apart, to scatter their souls. But you were ready.

You tightened your web of magic, wrapping it around them like a net. The threads of your power, woven from galaxies and divine tears, held firm. You poured every ounce of your love, your hope, your unwavering belief in them into that protective barrier.

When the explosion finally subsided, you were left holding two softly glowing orbs - Viktor and Jayce's souls, preserved and protected, shining with the same light blue hue as your magic.

Tears of relief and joy streamed down your cheeks, each droplet a newborn star. You had done it. They were safe, plucked from the edge of extinction and held in your palms like the most precious of pearls. 

You breathed deeply, your inhale rippling across reality like a stone cast into still waters. You needed somewhere to go, somewhere where you could all finally get the rest you were owed.

"Go forth my child,” Soraka had whispered to you as you’d fallen through the void for the first time. “Like a blazing comet streaking through the darkened sky. Your mission is clear: to mend their broken bodies and souls, to rescue them from certain death. You hold the key to their salvation, the only hope for a future free from destruction."

You had thought you’d failed, had allowed death and destruction to reign, but perhaps you’d been looking at it wrong. Death would happen no matter what you did, it was the cycle of life. But after life…nothing but oblivion. That was, until you.

With a gentle exhale, you willed a new reality into existence, fuelled by your magic. The cosmos shimmered and parted like a curtain, revealing a realm of breathtaking beauty. Rolling hills of soft, luminescent grass stretched as far as the eye could see, each blade swaying in a breeze that carried the whispers of a thousand lifetimes. The sky above was an ever-changing background of colours, auroras dancing in mesmerizing patterns.

Crystal-clear streams meandered through the landscape, their waters gleaming with memories of joy and laughter. Trees with silver bark and leaves of spun starlight dotted the hills, their branches reaching towards the heavens - though, you supposed, this was as close to heaven as one could get. Beneath their canopies, shimmering flowers bloomed, each petal a fragment of a cherished moment.

You felt a stirring in your chest. The three souls you had gathered - the warmth of a friend, the love of a father, and the curiosity of a child - began to float towards this new paradise. They drifted from your heart like dandelion seeds on the wind, each carrying a piece of your essence with them. They would be the first to enjoy the afterlife you had created, but they would not be the last.

Opening your hands, you freed both Jayce and Viktor from your pull, letting them fall like leaves in autumn towards the haven that awaited them. It would all be over soon, you could rest, be free from pain and suffering at long last, and—

Viktor’s soul remained unmoving, his brilliant light dim and pulsing, the taste of rain on a gloomy day hitting the back of your tongue. You returned your hands to holding him, but where he’d once felt like determination and fear, he now felt like the screaming anguish of someone who’d lost everything at their own hands. And with all your power, the magic that flowed over and through you like a dying star given rebirth, you couldn’t cure his self-blame. But you were still you, even made of starlight and the memories of millions, and perhaps, that was what Viktor needed most; not the goddess, but simply you, his miláčku. 

You inhaled, deep and expansive, your lungs filling with the nothingness around you, and when you exhaled, you released pieces of yourself into the galaxy, shrinking down until you’d returned to your human height. Were you still human? 

Existential questions could wait, what was most important was Viktor, his soul, tinged in your protective blue glue, floating before you. With a wave of your hand, you returned his form back to him, channeling your magic. He could communicate - you think - in his soul-form, but whether he knew how, or could express as much was not clear. 

He was exactly how you remembered him on the day of the council explosion; his hair swept back and curled around his ears, devoid of any metal, thin, but entirely himself. The only difference being the press of guilt sitting heavy on his shoulders, curling them in, and the dullness of his once brilliant eyes. 

Without thinking, you reached for him, hand outstretched, needing to feel him, to know he was real. But you came to an abrupt stop when he flinched, not meeting your gaze, head hung. 

Silence stretched between you, the distance becoming a gaping canyon. You wanted to hold him, to offer him comforting words, but not before he was ready. 

And maybe your own anger over your own loss had you hesitating to try. 

“They’re gone, aren’t they?” His eyes flicked up to meet yours, your form of starlight and the darkness of space shimmering at the edges. 

You didn’t need to confirm it, he already knew, had felt their souls disintegrate when he took over their bodies. 

He sucked his teeth, shaking his head. “They came to me for healing, they were vulnerable and desperate and I-I used them,” he spat. “I burned their souls out of their bodies and they are lost forever because of me.”

“Viktor—“ you started, but he was quick to cut you off. 

“I do not deserve what you have made,” he turned towards the space you’d carved out of nothing, where you’d laid the foundations for something better than non-existence. “It…radiates goodness and purity, I cannot go there.”

It was simple to keep your face carefully blank when it wasn’t a face at all, and merely a collection of constellations. “Sulking out here won’t bring them back.”

His head turned to you with a sharp twist of his neck, incredulous disbelief in the curve of his brows. “How do you not despise me? Charlotte, you loved her, and I destroyed her.”

Your chest bloomed with a swirl of blue and violet stars, your grief laid bare. “Yes, you did,” your voice wavered, “I…am angry and hurt but it’s not directly solely at you - there were many factors that led to Charlotte’s death and the destruction of her soul. I blame myself too, I blame Piltover and their lack of care for the citizens of Zaun, I blame Jayce for killing that last piece of your humanity you had left, and yes, I blame you, though it is unfair to say there were no other circumstances that led to this ending. Your mind was corrupted, and I do have some experience with what that’s like. With time, I will heal, but you will have to exist with that guilt forever. There is nothing you can do, no one left to pardon you.” 

It was harsh, but honest, and you did not have the energy to shield the truth from him, nor did you believe it would help. Still, the agonized grimace that twisted his lips, the tears gathering in his eyes, had your limbs tingling with the need to hold him tight, to soothe your hand down his hair and tell him everything would be okay.

“I don’t want that.” He pulled back his upper lip in a sneer, his teeth clenched. 

“Too bad,” you shot back. “You don’t get to shy away from the things you’ve done, to drift off into nothingness because it would be easier than facing it. I have never known you to be such a coward.” He flinched again and you stopped yourself, your hands clenched into fists. Taking out your anger and grief on him while he was already in such a vulnerable state would not benefit anyone.

You inhaled deeply and exhaled the stars. “Viktor, I…do you remember what I said to you on top of the Hexgate?”

His eyes swam with sorrow, deep pools of molten gold. “Every word,” he whispered like a promise. 

Your heart ached to see him like this, a shell of his former self. “We all played a part in this; if I hadn’t used the Hexcore to heal you, none of this would have happened. If we had died when we were supposed to, maybe we could have saved a lot of people from suffering. But there are too many ifs and buts and frankly, I don’t care enough to catalogue them all, nor would it change anything. I meant what I said, that I don’t regret a second of our time together, even through it all. I can’t bring myself to wish I could change it.”

Viktor’s eyes darted between yours as though he was searching for your sanity and could find no traces. “You absorbed thirty Gemstones, surely you have lost your mind and you do not truly mean that.”

You giggled, unable to hold yourself back. “It was closer to forty, but I think I’ve always been a little crazy when it comes to you.”

Seeing that he wasn’t going to persuade you to leave him to rot with those tactics, he changed his approach. “Milá, you made an afterlife, such a feat…it boggles the mind. You are…” he sighed, heavy and tired, affection swirling with the sorrow in his eyes. “You are a goddess, radiant and powerful and the most magnificent being in all of creation. And I…what good have I done?”

The answer was simple, it came to your tongue like breath to your lungs. “You loved me, for starters, and without you I never would have made it this far.” 

He opened his mouth to argue, but you held up a hand. “Wait, I’m not finished.” And when he reluctantly crossed his arms over his chest, you continued, “You were a kind and loving friend, you taught others the value of science and how to apply it which I’m sure will lead to all sorts of wonderful advances. You made me laugh when no one else could, and even though you hurt them in the end, you healed so many, provided them relief for the first times in many of their lives. But your value isn’t only what you can provide to others. You fought for yourself, for your right to live. You pursued goals others could only dream of, and you did what you had to survive. You couldn’t have known how it would end, neither of us did, not fully.”

He twisted his lips, his shoulders tightening, unable to meet your gaze. “I essentially killed you—“

“And I essentially killed you,” you countered, watching as his mouth opened and shut in rapid succession as he failed to come up with a rebuttal. 

“If you had never met me, you would still be alive,” he managed at last. 

You smiled then, sad and gentle. “Not without you, not in any ways that matter.”

His eyes widened, jaw slack in disbelief. Silence settled between you once more, but this time, you felt peace. The anger was still there, your grief simmering beneath the surface. Charlotte had been…like a mother, in the short time you’d known her. Losing her so completely had torn your heart in two. But you would have time to sort through that pain, right now, Viktor needed to get to a place where he could begin mending. You’d both been through enough, you deserved a happy ending. 

“I-I used a whole commune, I tore out their souls.”

“You did,” you floated forwards, stopping when he pulled back. “And that does not change how much I love you.”

Panic, fleeting and sharp crossed his angular face. “I aligned with a military, invasive force that killed hundreds.”

“And I love you,” you countered, moving closer again, only a few feet between you.

“I was going to subjugate the entire world, to remove their ability to choose in the pursuit of perfection!” His voice had raised an octave, but he no longer pulled away when you continued to float closer. 

“And I love you.” A few inches now, and you stopped, hand raised to cup his cheek in your stardust palm.

“But I…” his breath came in sharp pants, tears shining in his red-rimmed eyes. “I hurt you.”

“Sometimes we hurt the ones we love, but love isn’t about never making mistakes, it’s about how we handle them when they happen. Even the big ones.” Charlotte’s words of wisdom floated from you with ease. You tilted your head, running your fingers through his hair and watching with rapt attention as he shivered. “Viktor, I have loved you through life and death and rebirth. I will love you for eternity. So please, let yourself be loved.”

Like the breaking of a dam, Viktor crumbled. He fell into your arms, his body colliding with yours, two celestial bodies drawn together by gravity. You enveloped him, your cosmic form moulding around his. He curled into you, face buried against your chest as he wept. You held him tight, one hand cradling the back of his head while the other traced soothing patterns along his spine.

As you comforted him, comets streaked from your eyes instead of tears. They blazed brilliant trails across the inky void, each one carrying a fragment of your shared grief. The comets sailed past distant nebulae and newborn stars, their fiery tails painting the darkness with your sorrow.

Viktor's fingers dug into your shoulders, clinging to you as if you were the only solid thing in a universe gone mad. His tears soaked into your starlight skin, creating ripples of iridescent colour that spread outward like rings in a pond. You felt every shuddering breath, every choked sob as if they were your own.

Time lost all meaning as you floated there, two souls intertwined amidst the nothingness of space. Galaxies spun lazily around you, their spiralling arms seeming to cradle you like those of a loving parent.

Ever so slowly, his sobs began to subside. His grip on you loosened, though he made no move to pull away. You felt the tension gradually leave his body as exhaustion took hold. His breathing evened out, punctuated only by the occasional hiccup or sniffle.

You continued to hold him, one hand stroking his hair while murmuring soft words of love. The comets falling from your eyes grew fewer and farther between, until at last they ceased altogether. A sense of peace settled over you both, as delicate as spun sugar but no less real for its fragility.

“I want to take you home,” you whispered into the shell of his ear - though home had always been anywhere with him.

Viktor slowly pulled back, his amber eyes rimmed with red but no longer overflowing with tears. He gazed at you, wonder and hesitation warring on his face. You cupped his cheek, your celestial flesh warm against his skin.

"I would like that," he whispered, barely audible even in the vast silence of space.

Relief flooded through you, setting off a cascade of shooting stars across your form. You took his hand, intertwining your fingers, and gently tugged him towards the paradise you'd created. As you descended, the universe seemed to contract around you. Stars rushed past in streaks of light, galaxies blurred into swirls of colour.

Your feet touched down on soft grass that glowed with a gentle inner light. The blades bent beneath your weight, releasing a sweet scent that reminded you of summer evenings and childhood laughter. Viktor stumbled slightly as he landed, unused to having a physical form again. You steadied him, your hand on his shoulder.

For a moment, you both stood still, taking in the breathtaking beauty of your creation. The ever-changing sky painted everything in soft, ethereal hues. A warm breeze caressed your skin, carrying whispers of joy and contentment.

You closed your eyes, focusing inward. Your cosmic form buzzed with energy, too vast and powerful to be contained in a human shape. Slowly, you began to compress that power, folding it inward like origami. Stars collapsed into neutron-dense points within your chest. Galaxies spiraled down into the marrow of your bones. The vast emptiness between celestial bodies became the spaces between your atoms.

It was an odd sensation, like trying to pour an ocean into a teacup. Your skin tingled and stretched as it struggled to contain your new nature. You felt simultaneously infinite and impossibly small. Memories of countless lives flickered through your mind - births and deaths, triumphs and failures, love and loss - before settling into the background hum of your subconscious.

When you opened your eyes again, you found yourself standing on solid ground, in a form that was both familiar and strange. Your hair floated around you as if suspended in water, each strand containing a glimmering nebula. Your skin shimmered, constellations mapping themselves across your body in ever-shifting patterns. When you breathed, stardust escaped your lips in glittering clouds. And as always - your constant companions - the blue balls of light that belonged to your sparks floated lazily around you.

You turned to Viktor, but before you could take in his wide-eyed expression, a blur of motion caught your eye. Without warning, someone launched themselves at you with a delighted squeal, wrapping you in a tight hug, arms around your neck. The sudden impact sent you staggering back a step, your body rippling with surprise.

For a moment, confusion reigned. Your mind, still adjusting to its new vastness, struggled to process this unexpected development. But familiar sensations washed over you - the tickle of dark curls against your cheek, the scent of sunlight and tender friendship that could only belong to one person.

"Sky," you breathed, your voice cracking around the syllable of her name.

As if your recognition had unlocked something within you, your legs gave out, and you sank to the luminescent grass. She went down with you, refusing to let go even for a moment.

Sobs pulled from your chest in painful tears, your body shaking and weak. Sky held you through it all, her small frame surprisingly strong. Her hands rubbed soothing circles on your back, leaving trails of warmth that felt like home.

"I've got you," she murmured, her voice thick with her own tears. "I've got you, and I'm never letting go again."

How had you not recognized her soul when it had sat so snuggly in your chest?

You clung to her, your fingers digging into the fabric of her sundress as if she might disappear if you loosened your grip even slightly. Flowers sprouted and bloomed around you in a rapid cycle, their petals opening and closing like a visual representation of your racing heartbeat.

You cried for everything you'd lost, for the agony you'd endured, for the impossible choices you'd been forced to make. But you also cried with relief and joy at this unexpected reunion, at the miracle of having your dearest friend back in your arms.

Gradually, your sobs subsided, replaced by hiccupping breaths and the occasional sniffle. You pulled back slightly, just enough to look at Sky's face. Her cheeks were streaked with tears, but her smile was as bright and warm as ever. Her eyes, filled with love and understanding, met yours without flinching from your new, otherworldly appearance.

“The whole time,” you whispered, your bottom lip quivering. “You were with me the whole time.”

“You kept me safe. Even when I didn’t know that I was, well, me, you held my soul until I could come back to myself.” She laughed, breathy and tear-strained. “You are amazing, Milá. I can’t wait to hear about everything I missed.”

You laughed through your tears, the sound tinkling like broken glass. "I've missed you so much."

A gentle cough drew your attention. Viktor stood awkwardly nearby, shifting his weight from foot to foot. His eyes darted between you and Sky, a mix of emotions playing across his face - relief, guilt, uncertainty. Gone was the glowing blue aura of your magic. He was simply Viktor, no Hexcore metal, no sickness lingering in his lungs, cane held lightly over his forearm.

Sky noticed him too. Her grip on you loosened slightly as she turned to face him. For a moment, tension crackled in the air like static electricity.

Then Sky smiled, warm and welcoming. "Hello, Viktor. It's good to see you again."

Viktor's eyes widened in surprise. He opened his mouth, closed it, then tried again. "I…I'm sorry, Sky. For everything."

Sky's expression softened. "I know. And I don’t blame you."

Those simple words seemed to lift a great weight from Viktor's shoulders. He sagged visibly, exhaling a shaky breath.

Pushing yourself up to stand, you took Viktor’s hand in yours. His skin was plush and warm beneath your touch, and his fingers intertwined with yours as he gave you a small smile.

As you drank in the sight of him whole and unburdened, movement over his shoulder caught your eye. In the distance, beneath the boughs of a tree with silver bark and twinkling leaves, stood a figure you had only ever seen in your dreams. Vander, his face creased in a gentle smile, knelt beside a little girl, dyed blue hair lovingly tied back in twin braids. Isha, you realized with a start, her round features lit by the soft glow emanating from the grass beneath her feet.

Vander placed a comforting hand on Isha's shoulder, and you watched as she smiled shyly up at him. The sight tugged at your heart, a bittersweet ache of recognition flooding through you. These were the other two souls you'd carried with you, nestled safely within you until you could bring them to this place of peace.

Your moment of reflection was interrupted by a familiar voice calling out. "Hey! Wait for me!"

You looked up to see Jayce jogging towards you, his gait slightly uneven but determined. He was cleaned up, his beard neatly trimmed and his hair combed back. The only evidence of his past ordeals was the leg brace he still wore.

Jayce slowed as he approached, a sheepish grin on his face. "Sorry I'm late. Got a bit turned around in this place." His eyes widened as he took in your new look. "Wow, Mila. You look…different."

You couldn't help but laugh, genuine and relieved to see him in one piece - and back to himself. "It's been quite a journey."

Jayce nodded, his lips pursing. "I can imagine." He turned to Viktor, extending his hand. "Partner. It's good to see you back to yourself again without the imminent threat of arcane destruction."

Viktor hesitated for a moment before clasping Jayce's hand. "And you, Jayce. We have much to discuss after…all that.”

“We do,” Jayce agreed, “but I’d like a minute just to, uh, process it, if that’s alright with you.”

Viktor inclined his head. “Of course.”

"So," Sky said, antsy as the tension pulled taut between the two men. She turned to you. "What's it like being a goddess?"

You chuckled, grateful for the distraction to take the pressure off of Jayce and Viktor. They had plenty of time to work through their issues, jumping in right away would only lead to further strife. You’d all had more than your fair share of that. "Overwhelming. Beautiful. Terrifying." You paused, considering. "I'm not sure I'd call myself a goddess, exactly. More like…a cosmic caretaker?"

Viktor's hand tightened in yours. "You created an afterlife," he pointed out, awe colouring his tone. "If that's not goddess-like, I do not know what is."

You leaned into him, savouring his warmth. How close you’d come to losing him…you didn’t want to think about it. "I couldn't have done it without you. Any of you. Your love, your friendship, it gave me the strength to reshape reality. Thank you."

Sky beamed at you, her eyes sparkling. "Well, I for one think you've done a wonderful job. This place is beautiful."

As if in response to her words, the sky above you erupted in bright aurora-like waves of light that danced across the heavens.

"It's incredible," Viktor breathed. He turned to you, a hint of his old curiosity gleaming in his eyes. "How does it work?”

"I'm not entirely sure yet," you admitted. "It's all still so new. But I think…" You paused, reaching out with your newfound senses.

The realm pulsed around you, alive in ways you were only beginning to understand. You could feel the ebb and flow of energy, the intricate webs of connection between all things. It was gorgeous and frightening, like holding a living star in your hands.

"I think it's responsive," you said slowly, "to emotions, needs, and desires. It's not just a static place, but something that can grow and change."

As if to demonstrate your point, a cluster of flowers suddenly bloomed at Viktor’s feet. Their petals were translucent, catching the light in rainbow hues.

"Fascinating," Viktor muttered to himself, releasing your hand to kneel and examine the flowers more closely. "The potential significance is staggering. An infinitely adaptable environment, capable of providing for any need."

Even in the face of the miraculous, Viktor's scientific mind never stopped working.

"Well," Jayce said, clapping his hands together, "as amazing as all this is, I don't know about the rest of you, but I could use a drink and a very long nap."

Sky laughed, her dress swishing in the breeze. "I second that motion."

You looked around at the faces of those you loved most - Sky's bright smile, Jayce's easy grin, Viktor's intense gaze softened by wonder. For the first time in what felt like eons, you felt truly at peace.

"I think I can arrange that," you said with a wink, and with a wave of your hand, a cozy-looking cottage shimmered into existence nearby. It was nothing fancy - just a simple structure with a thatched roof and climbing roses around the door. But it radiated warmth and safety.

"Shall we?" you asked, gesturing towards the cottage.

As your little group made their way towards the house, Viktor began to trail behind. You matched his pace, watching as Jayce and Sky chatted animatedly ahead.

"Are you sure about this?" he asked softly. "About me?"

You linked your arm in his, resting your head on his shoulder. "More sure than I've ever been about anything," you replied. "We've been through hell and back, Viktor. We deserve some happiness together without the threat of death looming over us. You know, since we’re already dead."

He nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. As you walked, you noticed the grass beneath his feet sprouting tiny blue flowers - forget-me-nots. Had that been your doing or his? Either way, you couldn’t imagine forgetting even a second of your time with him.

Sky and Jayce entered the cottage, their laughter drifting back to you on the gentle breeze. As they disappeared inside, you pulled Viktor to a stop, your fingers curling around his wrist.

"Viktor, I…" The words caught in your throat, a supernova of emotion ready to burst from your chest. You bit your lip. How could mere language possibly encompass the depth of what you felt?

To hell with words, you thought. I'll show him instead.

You pulled Viktor close, your hands cupping his face as you pressed your lips to his in a searing kiss. The contact sent shockwaves through you, ripples of energy cascading across your skin like the surface of a disturbed pond. Viktor stiffened for a moment, surprised, before melting into your kiss.

The grass beneath your feet erupted in a riot of wildflowers, their petals unfurling in rapid time-lapse. The sky above blazed with shooting stars and you tasted stardust on Viktor's lips, felt the heat of a thousand suns in the press of his body against yours.

When you finally broke apart, breathless, you found that your feet were no longer touching the ground. You and Viktor floated several inches above the flower-strewn grass, held by your magic as it glowed around you.

A smile tugged at his lips, boyish and carefree in a way you hadn’t seen in years.

"I love you," you whispered. "We made it, Viktor. We're here, together. Our friends are safe, and when the rest are ready, they will have a place here too."

In response, Viktor pulled you close again, resting his forehead against yours. You closed your eyes, basking in his affection, in the simple miracle of his presence. The universe may have been vast and unknowable, but in that moment, your entire world was contained in the circle of Viktor's arms.

Lowering yourself, you made your way towards the cottage once more. Viktor entered first, but you paused at the doorway, looking back at the vast expanse of your creation. It felt surreal to be there, like a dream come true. In time, you’d figure out how to usher other souls to this place, to make it a true beacon of rest and safety. And maybe, just maybe, you could find the shards of Charlotte’s soul and piece her back together. Anything was possible when you had the power of infinite universes at your fingertips.

You stepped into the cottage, leaving the door open for Vander and Isha if they decided to make their way over, and were greeted by the smiling faces of your friends as they settled into the new space. Jayce, Sky, Viktor, and soon-to-be countless others are at your side. You knew in the depths of your never-ending soul, that this was where you were meant to be.

Epilogue

(Click on the picture for full resolution)

A/N: I can't believe its over!! It's crazy to think that its been three years since I posted the first part, and the entire time in between I was thinking and brainstorming about how I wanted it to end, only for Arcane to give us such a beautiful ending I couldn't bring myself to change much of it. But now they get to all be happy together in the afterlife for eternity, no more fighting or pain, just getting to be together in all the ways that matter ❤️

Thank you x1000000 for coming on this journey with me, its been a blast!! I'd love to hear what you think, even if you're reading this months or years later, I'm always looking for more inspiration to write more!

I may at some point post a very short epilogue so let me know if you still have any questions and I will try to provide answers. (Jinx isn't here because I think she's still alive)

Love you all!!!!

Spotify playlist

[sykestarot]

what transformations will happen for you in 2024

1-2-3 (left to right)

I DO NOT OWN THESE IMAGES

Hi guys! I took a break due to the holidays but I hope all of you guys had a great holiday and new year!! Thanks for stopping by and enjoy!

Pile 1

"are there still beautiful things?" (Temperance; The High Priestess (rx); two of swords (rx); page of swords; The Star; queen of cups (rx)) Hi pile 1 for you guys I feel a very youthful energy, maybe you just graduated highschool? I feel a sudden sense of responsibility that’s washed over you. Like life has just begun but you long so much to go back to a simpler time. Even if you are older and have been out of high school for some years I can see you being stuck in a corporate machine and working long hours just to not enjoy life outside of work. For the people who chose this pile that are older you’re struggling with work life balance and that this year that can be changed. I see you being able to go on vacation and relax with family this year. For the people who have just graduated high school I see you are feeling like you won’t be able to handle the balance of adult life or working like that. For you I see that you’ll do just fine and you should remember that no one was just perfect at being an adult right out of the gate. Everyone makes mistakes but few learn from them. Let yourself learn from your mistakes, don't let your ego get in the way of your growth. As far as this pile goes I see that you are in the very beginning of your transformations and you will be frustrated but it will all workout in the end. You will be able to transform and grow the way that you feel like you need to.  For this reading I also pulled out some messages from your guides from an oracle deck! For you guys there is “Be Peace”, “Make your dreams real”, “be open to compromise”, and “give yourself time”. Your guides want to tell you to be open and patient. They believe in you even when you don't, so please continue to work hard. If others in your waking don’t believe in what you’re doing you have to be your biggest fan! Also remember to take deep breaths!! Signs: growing up; major milestones; bare feet in dirt; balance; ying yang (tattoo?); cycles; circle of life; less freedom; tired; doves; spiders; spider webs; pearls; purple; 9

Pile 2

(10 of cups; The Star; queen of pentacles; queen of wands; 10 of swords; 3 of pentacles) Hi Pile 2! For this pile I am getting that what will transform the most in your life is the way you approach relationships. I feel like you didn't want your 2024 transformations to be centered around other people and that's not necessarily what this message means. For you I see that you've hung onto people who aren't good for you for a long time and its time to let them leave if they want . I see that your idea of love is giving yourself away so much that you don't even remember who you are anymore. So in that way changing how you approach relationships will actually serve you by bringing you closer to your soul and who you are without outer validation. Which is such an albeit cool journey to be on it is painful as well, but I see you turning all the pain and suffering into strength to persevere. I feel as though you lost your identity and individualism in a group were a part of. I also feel like you have always wanted to go back to how you were before them, but there is no going back, only going forward and creating new. You can always pull inspiration from the past and incorporate it in the future but you won't be able to be exactly who you were before and that in itself is okay. I feel so much pain in you pile 2 because of what others have done to you, you feel like you will always be the person you are, but you don't have to be. you always have the free will and the choice to change. Stay strong! For this reading I also pulled out some messages from your guides! Your guides Pile 2, want you to remember how much you can rely on the universe and how much you yourself create! (“magic works through you”; “the abundant universe will provide”) I also see that they highly encourage you to stand your ground and keep your boundaries when others ask you to do things for them that you are either uncomfortable with or just plainly don’t want to do! Your guides really love you and feel so sad with the way you feel about yourself. Sending you love and light pile 2! <3 Signs: green; fresh cut grass; 777; fresh crisp air; fresh rain; fresh; apples; breeze; scenic views; iron gate; the ocean from far away

Pile 3

"but things are just different since she cut her blue hair off"

(7 of swords; The Lovers; page of pentacles (rx); page of wands; 8 of pentacles; king of swords (rx)) Hi pile 3! So for your pile I see as far as transformations go you also have a sense of responsibility this year or a need to grow up. I feel like you guys are still young but not fresh out of high school young. I get maybe mid to late twenties. For you guys I see that you are tired of working at passion projects and feel the need to get a “big girl/boy job”. I feel like most of you have degrees in something but you didn’t like the fields and ended up chasing other dreams, but because they haven’t worked out you’re ready to surrender and go to the career that you chose to study in. Or maybe you just continued to go to the minimum wage job you had because you knew everybody and the money was easy and the situation of everything was comfortable to you. But if that’s the case I see you itching for something different and more mature. For you I feel like the idea of working in a corporate job was actually the signifier that your youth was over. LOL. I feel now though that your ready for this change and you might be fighting with yourself that you won’t be as fun anymore because of where you’ll be working, but that’s just not true. Just because your job will change doesn’t mean your identity will. Anyways for you guys I feel a much more lighthearted energy because I feel as though you’ve been anticipating it and already been sitting in your cocoon for a minute just waiting for the right moment to emerge with your beautiful wings! Good job pile 3, keep it up!!  For this reading I pulled messages from your guides as well! For you guys I see that your guides are encouraging you to take the lead and be an active participant in the change that happens in your life. They also are insistent that there will be a rebirth in your life and as I said earlier I feel like you are aware of it to some degree if not fully. (“take the lead”; “a rebirth is assured”) I also see them emphasizing not to listen to others telling you not to make this change and that their words only hurt your ego and not to let them have too much of an effect on your choices, as well as taking time to think before you do anything is recommended! Signs: carnival; pier; plushies; tattoos; patterned tights; two high ponytails; black lipstick; alternative fashion; cats; hearts

[reixtsu]

Chapter 1: Banter and Bites

Synopsis: You enjoy a peaceful morning at your favorite café with your friend, Layla, until Kaveh and Alhaitham, two charming scholars, interrupt with their playful argument. After offering a food suggestion, you have a brief but memorable encounter with them, leaving you flustered-only to remind yourself that you already have a boyfriend.

wk: 2k

Taglist: @kaeyasrose

Masterlist Series Masterlist

Notes: I stared at my computer for a while before writing this. I was willing myself to just write something, anything, and after an unnecessary all-nighter full of stress, I got the first chapter done! Let me know what you all think! Also, Happy new years! Hope you all have a wonderful year this year!

Just when the sun began to rise, painting the sky with golden streaks, you liked to make yourself a nice cup of coffee. The comforting warmth of the cup rested between your palms, like a gentle wake-up call-a reminder that you were alive and well. At least, as well as one could be.

Today, however, you weren’t drinking coffee alone. Instead, you found yourself at a cozy café with your best friend, Layla. Her usual baggy eyes and constant yawning were absent, replaced by an unusual spark of energy that danced in her gaze.

“Finally got a good night’s sleep, huh?” you teased, glancing up from your notes from last class.

The blue-haired girl hummed in agreement, her head bobbing slightly as she cradled her coffee cup. “I did. I found this pill that really helps with sleep. I haven’t felt this alive in months!”

You chuckled, relieved to see her looking more vibrant. “Good. I’d hate to see you walking around like a zombie again.” Taking a sip of your coffee, you let the bitter taste linger on your tongue before melting away.

The caféwas bathed in the soft glow of morning light, golden rays filtering through wide windows and dancing across polished wooden tables. The quiet hum of conversation mingled with the faint hiss of an espresso machine, creating a gentle rhythm that matched the start of a new day. Potted plants adorned the corners, their vibrant green leaves catching the sunlight, while the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries lingered in the air- a tranquil haven before the day’s chaos began.

“Any progress on your side of the project?” Layla asked, a small smile playing on her lips.

“Yep. Finished the math part and made some notes that might help with your portion. Here.” Setting her coffee down, she reached into her bag and pulled out a neatly rolled scroll. You arched a brow, smirking as you took it from her hands.

“You always take care of me, you know that?” you teased, unrolling the scroll and scanning her meticulous notes.

The project focused on astrological predictions for climate shifts in Sumeru—analyzing how the positions of the stars could influence the seasons and weather patterns. Layla’s calculations were, as always, precise and impressive.

“Thanks for this, Layla. I’ll draft the essay tonight,” you said with a wink, setting the scroll on the wooden table between you.

Layla’s cheeks tinted slightly as she nodded, her shyness creeping in. “Thank you for being my partner, Y/N. You make work so much easier.”

You laughed softly. “No problem!”

Later, the hot Sumeru sun blazed down your back as you fanned yourself. Lunchtime meant you had a precious thirty minutes to grab a bite before your next lecture.

The campus around you bustled with life. Students of all ages moving through the towering, forest-inspired buildings. In the heart of it all was a familiar spot: Ametsuchi Bistro, an Inazuman-inspired restaurant nestled within the campus mall.

As you stepped into Ametsuchi Bistro, a wave of nostalgia washed over you. The warm glow of lanterns cast a soft, golden hue across the room, reminiscent of the evenings back home in Inazuma. The gentle hum of traditional shamisen music played in the background, blending seamlessly with the quiet chatter of patrons.

The air was filled with the familiar aroma of freshly brewed tea and sizzling takoyaki, instantly grounding you. Wooden beams crisscrossed the ceiling, their dark, polished surface gleaming faintly in the light. Delicate paper screens partitioned the room, creating cozy little nooks that reminded you of sitting around the kotatsu during chilly evenings.

Your gaze drifted to the walls, adorned with hand-painted depictions of Inazuman landscapes-stormy seascapes, serene cherry blossoms, and the towering silhouette of Narukami Shrine. Each detail whispered of home, evoking a comforting ache of familiarity.

Sliding into your usual seat at the bar, you felt the worn but sturdy wood beneath your hands. It reminded you of the weathered countertops of your family kitchen, where you once sat, listening to the sound of rain against the windows. The chef greeted you with a subtle nod, his voice steady and calm, adding to the sense of quiet belonging.

This place wasn’t just a restaurant. It was a pocket of home nestled in the bustling heart of Sumeru, a refuge where the past felt close enough to touch.

“The usual?” the chef asked as you started getting comfortable on your seat.

“Yes, please. Thank you.”

After a short time waiting, you settled on a simple yet flavorful dish: freshly grilled teriyaki salmon served over a bed of steaming rice and crisp vegetables. The aroma alone made your stomach rumble, and as you sank your teeth into the first bite, the flavors unfolded beautifully. The salmon was tender and perfectly glazed, the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce balanced by a subtle smokiness. Each mouthful melted on your tongue, and the warm, comforting blend of rice and savory juices made you close your eyes in bliss.

For a moment, it felt like nothing could ruin your peaceful lunch-until voices broke through the gentle hum of the restaurant.

“I told you I was paying today!”

“No, you didn’t. And even if you had, your budgeting skills are atrocious.”

The bickering grew louder, pulling you from your meal. Lifting your gaze, you spotted two familiar figures near the counter. Alhaitham stood, arms crossed with an exasperated look, while Kaveh gestured dramatically, holding his wallet as though it were a shield in an impending battle.

“I’m not letting you pay! You’d pick something boring to save mora!”

“And you’d overspend on something ridiculous again.”

You sighed, setting your fork down and awkwardly watched the scene unfold, your once-perfect moment of solitude now thoroughly interrupted.

You watched their back-and-forth, a small frown tugging at your lips. Despite the playful bickering, you couldn't help but feel a little sorry for Kaveh. He was clearly trying so hard to be the bigger person, yet Alhaitham’s calm, almost indifferent attitude kept shutting him down. You couldn’t help but think Kaveh deserved a little more credit for his efforts.

Though it annoyed you that your peaceful moment was now caught in the middle of their argument, you decided to step in before it escalated any further. You placed your napkin down gently, taking a deep breath to calm yourself, and made your way to the counter.

As you approached, both their eyes turned to you, a slight pause in their heated exchange. You smiled politely, not wanting to seem rude. "Hey, I couldn't help but overhear, and…” you hesitated just slightly, wondering if you were intruding. "It seems like you're both pretty passionate about food, so if you’d like, I can recommend a few dishes."

Kaveh’s expression softened slightly at the suggestion, though he still looked a little flustered. "Oh, really?" He shifted, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. "I could use some backup here. He’s impossible when it comes to meal choices."

You chuckled quietly, your tone light and nonchalant. “I totally get it. I’m a big fan of the chef’s special miso soup… it’s savory without being too heavy. And if you want something sweet, their matcha tiramisu is amazing.”

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow, his lips quirking upward ever so slightly, or was it your imagination? "I suppose I could try the tiramisu... if it’s as good as you say."

Kaveh beamed at the shift in the conversation, a golden aura of pride surrounding him. "See? You do have a soft spot for sweets!"

You smiled again, feeling a bit more at ease now that the tension had loosened. "I hope I didn’t interrupt anything too important. I just thought I’d offer a little help." You felt a small blush creep onto your cheeks, worried you might’ve come off as too forward, especially two two handsome tall men who have a name in Sumeru.

Alhaitham, however, just nodded in acknowledgment. "Appreciated. We can’t argue about everything, I suppose."

Kaveh winked at you. “Thanks for the suggestions. You saved me from another pointless battle."

A blush started to paint on your face but you simply just gave them a small bow. “It’s no problem, really. I'm a regular here… so… I know all the food.” You let out a little laugh, nervous.

A blush started to paint on your face, but you simply gave them a small bow. “It’s no problem, really. I’m a regular here… so… I know all the food.” You let out a little laugh, nervous, but trying to stay calm. You hoped you didn’t come off as too awkward.

Kaveh’s gaze softened slightly, noticing the slight flush on your cheeks, and he leaned a little closer, curiosity piqued. "A regular, huh? Guess that explains why you seem so comfortable here. And you’ve got good taste in food too." He tilted his head, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "I don’t think I’ve ever seen you before though. You sure you’ve been coming here a lot?"

You nodded quickly, trying to reassure him. "Yeah, definitely. I just usually grab takeout or come with a friend. It’s rare I sit down, but…" you glanced around, suddenly feeling a bit self-conscious. “It’s nice to sit here for a change."

Kaveh raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Hm, well, I’m glad you decided to stay today. You’ve got a nice energy about you." He grinned, leaning back slightly. "I’m Kaveh, by the way. And this is Alhaitham," he added, nodding toward the other man, who was already flipping through a small book of notes he had pulled out from his bag, seemingly unimpressed by the exchange.

You gave them both a small nod. “Nice to meet you both.” You could feel your nerves kicking in again but tried to push it down, smiling softly.

Alhaitham, never one for small talk, glanced up from his notes and nodded. “Alhaitham,” he said briefly, his voice neutral. “We’ve taken up enough of your time already. We’ll finalize the order now.”

With that, Kaveh grinned and pushed Alhaitham toward the counter, the two of them ordering their meals, their light banter continuing in the background. You watched them for a moment, their effortless chemistry apparent. Once they’d placed their orders, Alhaitham handed over the payment, and Kaveh, still in high spirits, waved a final farewell.

“Take care!” Kaveh called over his shoulder as the two of them left the restaurant, leaving you alone with your thoughts.

You returned to your seat, a flurry of emotions swirling inside you. Your heart was racing a little faster than usual, and you couldn’t help but replay your brief interaction with them over and over. Both Kaveh and Alhaitham were so... striking. Kaveh’s flirtatious energy and teasing smile, Alhaitham’s calm, collected demeanor-they were two sides of a coin that seemed to complement each other effortlessly.

Blushing slightly, you took a bite of your food, hoping to focus on something other than those two handsome scholars. The comforting taste of the miso soup soothed your nerves, but your mind couldn’t help but wander back to their faces. Kaveh had been so charismatic, and Alhaitham-well, Alhaitham was the type to catch your attention without even trying.

But then, just as quickly as your thoughts began to drift, a wave of realization hit you. You already had a boyfriend. You had no reason to let your mind get tangled up in the allure of two people you barely knew.

You groaned inwardly, taking another spoonful of soup, trying to force the thought away. “Get it together,” you muttered under your breath, a little annoyed with yourself. You were here to enjoy your meal, not to daydream about someone else.

But no matter how hard you tried, you couldn’t shake the thoughts of Kaveh’s teasing grin and Alhaitham’s intense gaze from your mind. You sighed, realizing this would probably be the last time you’d be able to enjoy a peaceful lunch for a while before life became chaotic with schoolwork again.

Next

[swiftiethatlovesf1]

Unspoken Melody p.3

Hi guys, here's a new part of the story, if you've missed part 2 here it is :) If you want to read more of my stories, here's my masterlist.

Two drivers, one unforgettable concert, and a chance encounter with a pop sensation that leaves Oscar questioning everything he thought about music—and maybe even himself.

The paddock was a whirlwind of energy. As you stepped out of the car, your nerves buzzed almost as loudly as the hum of engines in the distance. Fans were gathered behind barriers, waving signs and shouting, their excitement infectious. It wasn’t the same as a concert crowd, but it had its own rhythm, a tempo of anticipation and adrenaline.

Your heels clicked against the pavement as a McLaren staff member escorted you to their motorhome. The sleek orange logo stood out against the backdrop of bustling activity, and you took a deep breath to calm your nerves.

Inside, the motorhome was buzzing with team members rushing around. Amid the chaos, Lando spotted you and broke into a grin, making his way over. Zak Brown followed closely behind, his handshake firm and his smile welcoming.

“YN! You made it,” Lando said, his enthusiasm palpable. “Welcome to the madness.”

“Thanks for inviting me,” you said, trying to keep your voice steady.

“It’s an honor to have you here,” Zak chimed in. “Lando’s been talking about this all week.”

You chuckled, feeling the warmth of their welcome ease your tension. Lando quickly took over, leading you through the motorhome and pointing out everything with a mix of genuine excitement and his usual cheeky humor.

“This is where we eat,” he said, gesturing to a sleek dining area. “Well, where we try to eat healthy. Unless you’re me, then it’s just chocolate and pasta.”

“Very professional,” you teased, earning a laugh from him.

Eventually, Lando glanced at his watch and grimaced. “I’ve gotta head to a meeting. Typical race day stuff.”

He pointed down the hall. “You can hang out in the VIP room while I’m gone. It’s comfy, and I’ll come get you once I’m free.”

“Got it,” you said with a nod.

Lando gave you a thumbs-up before disappearing down the corridor. You started walking in the direction he’d indicated, but after a few turns, the identical hallways began to blur together.

“VIP room… right,” you muttered to yourself, scanning the area.

As you rounded a corner, you collided with something—or someone. Your breath hitched as you stumbled back slightly, only to look up and meet the familiar, shy gaze of Oscar.

“Oh! I’m so sorry,” you blurted, heat rising to your cheeks.

“No, no, it’s okay,” Oscar said quickly, his own face turning pink. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, I just—got lost, I think,” you admitted with a sheepish laugh. “Lando said to wait in the VIP room, but now I have no idea where I am.”

Oscar scratched the back of his neck, his smile soft. “Yeah, it’s easy to get turned around in here. I can show you the way if you want.”

“That’d be great. Thank you,” you said, relief washing over you.

As he led the way, the awkwardness began to fade. Oscar glanced at you, his tone teasing. “So, how’s the big pop star adjusting to the paddock?”

“Still figuring it out,” you admitted with a grin. “It’s a lot less glamorous than my world, but it’s fascinating. Everyone’s so focused, like they’re part of one giant machine.”

“That’s one way to put it,” he said, chuckling. “Though, if you stick around long enough, you’ll see it’s mostly controlled chaos.”

You laughed, finding his humor unexpectedly endearing. As you walked, he pointed out various areas, adding small anecdotes about his experiences. You couldn’t help but notice how easy he was to talk to—gentle, with a quiet confidence that made you feel at ease.

Eventually, you reached the VIP room, and he stopped at the door, turning to you.

“Well, here we are,” he said, his hands in his pockets.

“Thank you so much, Oscar,” you said sincerely. “I’d probably still be wandering around if it weren’t for you.”

“It’s no problem,” he replied, his cheeks tinged pink. “I don’t mind helping. I mean… if you get lost again, just let me know.”

The earnestness in his voice made your heart skip a beat, and you smiled warmly. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Before you could say more, a voice called his name from down the hall, and he glanced over his shoulder.

“Duty calls,” he said, giving you a small, apologetic smile.

“Good luck out there,” you said, waving as he walked away.

He paused, looking back at you with a shy grin. “Thanks, YN.”

As he disappeared around the corner, you leaned back against the doorframe, your thoughts swirling. There was something about Oscar—something unexpected, like a quiet melody that lingered long after the music stopped. With a deep breath, you pushed open the door and stepped inside, ready to let the rhythm of the day carry you forward.

Part 4

[starlightkun]

the soulmate factory ➥ teaser [sungchan]

➥ teaser word count: 1.3k | full fic: 28.9k ➥ warnings: none for the teaser! ➥ genre: angst heavy at the beginning then fluff, science fantasy au, soulmate au (red string), speculative fiction, star crossed lovers, a little mystery-ish, artist sungchan ➥ estimated release: wednesday, february 14, 2024 6:00 p.m. eastern time

Swiping your badge at the access panel, the door clicked to unlock, and you pushed it open. There were a couple of other matchmakers already in there, who didn’t offer you a single glance or any indication that they were even aware of your presence. Sitting at your station, you were face-to-face with a quaintly archaic-looking computer. Compared to the newest monitors at every desk in the main bullpen, which could display images in a resolution so crisp it was hard to tell the difference between that and real life, the small, square glass and pixelated text that was in front of you seemed so out of place. But this was the system.

Pressing the Enter button on your keyboard, your screen came to life, already giving you your first match.

N!#83LPd5D4ZR$PYQ^KLT6WnY##4GYVm74v^f@96#q#hheeRYgLLf3Ft9KQw

‘Matchmaker’ was a misnomer, really. You didn’t set people up to be soulmates whatsoever. The computer gave you the results, all you did was read them. Take the seemingly random string of letters, numbers, and characters, and parse out the meaning. Your training consisted of watching other matchmakers work, then trying your hand at doing some on your own, being told that you were wrong or right, with no explanation as to why either way—until you stopped getting them wrong. And whenever it would be your turn to train a matchmaker, that would be exactly how you’d train them. Because there was no way to tell them what exactly you were seeing, or how to do it. They just had to do.

The longest part was looking up the profile numbers in the program, selecting them, and sending off the match results. As soon as you submitted that one, your next match came up.

jkD%NVSC3%JCacN%vWS5#k!Z4GqGW#ZfMyqGUfc@wQT5L5vK2uWU5N*5Lg&6

Your body moved as if by itself, in understanding with the machine, the program. The matchmakers often talked about entering a sort of trance when working, becoming one mind with the computer, completely unaware of their surroundings, time, or bodily needs. Only the next match.

That’s why all of your screens had to be simultaneously forced into a shut-off at lunchtime, or else none of you would take a lunch break, then again at the end of the workday.

Blinking a few times to readjust from the hours spent interfacing with the program, you looked around you at the other matchmakers slowly getting up from their seats as well. With a sigh, you stood up and shuffled out after them. Jaemin was still at his desk when you got back to yours, fervently clacking away at his keyboard.

You grabbed your coffee mug, went to wash it out in the breakroom and set it up to dry, then returned to your desk. Swallowing in an attempt to wet your dry throat, you asked him, “So how was your thrilling day of data synthesis?”

“Not over yet,” he groaned, scrolling down in his spreadsheet. “Hey, wait up a minute, would you?”

Checking the time on your watch, you nodded. “My bus doesn’t come for another twenty-five. They let us out early again.”

“Yeah, I heard the Director on the phone to somebody a while ago. He sounded pissed. Apparently, there’s some concerns over the Factory’s energy usage. They must be cutting you guys a few minutes early every day to try to help since you still use old hardware, right?”

“Mm,” you hummed thoughtfully. “Yeah, could be.”

“You’d think we’d be the one agency that wouldn’t be hit with budget cuts,” he scoffed, clicking a few things before his monitor displayed the login screen again. He spun around in his chair, giving you a wide smile. “Alright, ready?”

“Sure.” You grabbed your backpack from your seat.

Jaemin and you headed down the stairs, awash in pinks and oranges from the sunset streaming in from outside.

“So, I already know what the answer is going to be, but I have to be able to say that I asked, alright?” Your coworker began, making you scrunch up your face in confusion.

“Huh?”

“My sister wanted me to ask if you’ve done hers yet? Na Minhee?”

You sighed, “Jaemin, you know I don’t know any of that—”

“I know—”

“—it’s all just… stuff. And you’ve compiled profiles, those are completely anonymous.”

“I know, I know,” he reassured you. “I just needed to be able to tell her that I asked, and that’s what you said. She wouldn’t take my word for it.”

“She’d know if hers has already been done, anyway.” You held up your hand, wiggling your pinky finger. “Why ask you?”

“Because she’s impatient.”

“Well, I can’t help her.” You shrugged. “It’ll happen when it happens.”

“I’ll tell her that. Thanks!”

“Yeah, no problem, dude.”

“When does your bus come?”

You checked the time again. “Fifteen minutes or so.”

“You want me to wait with you?” He offered, looking around the empty bus stop. “Kind of dark.”

“I’m alright, thanks. Go break your sister’s heart, champ.” You gave him a mock punch on the shoulder.

“Right.” Your coworker shook his head. “See you tomorrow, Y/N.”

“See you tomorrow, Jaemin.”

On your own again, you took your phone and headphones out, popping one earbud in your ear as you went to choose your playlist. As you scrolled, tapped, and swiped through your phone to try to pick the perfect song, some fuzz fell from your jumpsuit onto your right pinky finger, and you absentmindedly shook it off as your focus stayed on your music library. But it was stubborn, and the red fleck didn’t budge. You wiped the digit on your pants, eyes on where you had finally gotten the perfect choice, the song starting up as you lifted your now-clean hand back up.

Except it was still there. You looked at your hand for the first time, really looked at it, and felt your stomach drop. A thin, bright red string, the same color as your jumpsuit, was tied around your right pinky finger, just above the juncture where the finger met your hand. The string hung off in the air, becoming transparent and disappearing altogether less than a finger’s length away. You turned your hand over, palm to back to palm to back, and the string moved with it, the end fluttering with each of your movements. Stupidly, you tried to grab it, as if to pull it off, but when you took hold of the silken thread and gave it a yank, it didn’t budge. For a split second, amputation came to mind, but you quickly pushed those thoughts away. There were stories of people losing fingers or entire limbs and their strings reappearing on the other hand, or in new places altogether if they had no hands at all.

You looked around for any of your coworkers. Nobody else except the two people on either end of the string could see it, but you still didn’t want anybody to be observing your behavior, and then have to try to explain said behavior right now. It was easy to explain why you were doing what you were doing—you just got a red string; but not how—you weren’t supposed to get one. Ever.

The area around you was empty, the majority of your coworkers driving, taking the subway, or not having left work yet. You looked over your shoulder, at the pink marble building looming in the distance.

The squeal of brakes and hiss of compressed air as the doors of a bus were flung open made you turn around. Rushing up the steps onto the bus, you then plopped into your usual seat, keeping your backpack on your lap and instinctively tucking your right hand between the bag and your body to keep the string hidden. You didn’t know who could possibly be your soulmate now, you had to be vigilant.

➥ masterlist

[quitealotofsodapop]

Would it just be perfect timing if MK had decided it was time to hatch during the trial for Macaque's soul? Like, Wukong be there spinning this sob story (that's actually mostly true for once) about how he jsut wanted to ensure his child could comenintot he world safely and it would be so very cruel to drag his Bama to Diyu before be even has a chance to see their precious little one! Then Wukong suddenly freezes, ever god and goddess of childbirth, motherhood, and children present suddenly tenses, and the court goes silent.

Wikong jsut whispers out: Oh... the baby.

And suddenly, they're all hurrying to get Wukong to the infirmary or his quarters (the original ones built for him when he first became the Great Sage and before he ruined the festival, nobkdy had bothered to remodel them), anywhere really so long as it's not in the middle of the FREAKING THRONE ROOM!! The good news, literally every maternity god and goddess is there to play wetnurse and tend to Wukong or help keep Macaque calmed (a job that mainly falls to Nez Ha because Macaque is very much freaking out). Bad news is that Wukogn was REALLY hoping his egg would have picked a better time and place because the Heavenly Court and being tended to by the Queen Mother herself (she's THE mother goddess of China, guys, she'llhe involved alongside Guanyin) and every other god remotely related to his child wasn't in his list things he wanted to do. One unexpected benefit of this was that after all was said and done, Sun Qi Xiaoation's arrival had actually helped to push the trial into Wukong's favor since not a lot of people are willing to separate a new mother from her mate right after giving birth, although Wukong will be forced to spend several weeks if not months in the Celestial Realm afterwards during his recovery.

referencing SWK in Heaven's Court.

Oh gosh just imagine. The Stone Egg has been comfortably baking for nearly 500 years, it's parent is awake and has been reunited with their mate, and they're being exposed to a lot of healthy divine magical energy.

So when Wukong steps into the Jade Palace, its like a countdown to when the Egg decides "Hey Imma hatch like right now."

More writting under read more cus talk of childbirth stuff;

Continue'd;

The trial for Macaque's soul and LBD's contract takes hours to resolve, and Wukong is getting more and more frustrated as it drags on, even with Fire Star's amazing lawyer-ing.

Doesn't help that Wukong's stomach has been feeling like a washing machine all day and he seems to have mega indigestion that won't go away. A bunch of gods also keep looking at him with weird concerned glances - Weirdos.

Then, after Wukong is forced to explain his condition/why he sought out immortality in the first place - a small trickle is heard in the quiet courtroom.

Wukong quickly looks down, super embarassed thinking he's lost control of his body - only for him and the witnesses to notice that the liquid is clear.

Complete and utter chaos breaks out in the Throne Room as the situation sinks in.

Someone is giving birth in the Throne Room of the Jade Emperor. And it's THE MONKEY KING!!!

Guanyin, in the defence's side: "BED. NOW." (*Wukong is lifted up by Pigsy and Sandy into a soft cloud-like bed and is brought to the nearest guest room. A bunch of maternity gods follow them, including the Queen Mother herself. Nezha escorts Macaque in seeing how the Shadow Monkey is handcuffed.*) Wukong: "H-hey! I thought the water breaking can still mean a few hours to go!" Guanyin: "Normally yes. But it seems you've been in active labor since the trial started. Your baby wants out now." Wukong: "You sure-OW!" *contractions get stronger* "Yep! It's trying to bust out all right!"

The room has to be closed off from lookyloos as it's already stuffed with at least ten people - most family or gods. Nezha and Sandy are helping Macaque breathe slowly as the shadow monkey/other parent of the baby (at least according to what was heard in the trial) is panicking like any other bama would.

Tang and Princess Iron Fan are at Wukong's side, holding his hand as any good family would, wondering how thrilled DBK would have been to be here. PIF is glad that the Ao-Long couple agreed to babysit little Redson on earth during the Trial, as she's certain that her fireball would have bitten and charged at anyone that came close to his favorite monkey. Pigsy is outside the guest room with all the royal court members, offering to make them some coffee and noodles as he makes some calls to earth - they agree but are a bit confused why Marshal Tianpeng is here and why his cooking is so good?

The Queen Mother is ultimately the one who catches the cracking egg-shaped thing as Wukong pushes it out into the world. Within seconds of touching the air, the shell of the egg practically explodes, leaving a tiny, screaming newborn in the Goddess's palm.

Wukong is sobbing with joy as he hears the healthy crying chirps coming from his baby. He sees them squirming as Guanyin washes remnants of the Stone Egg from their body. His little one is so strong and perfect already.

Macaque escapes his bindings via shadow portal (Nezha: "Hey!") to join his mate on the bed, no god moves to stop him. Mac doesn't last long before he's crying into Wukong's neck at the sight of *their* cub. The cub is quickly wrapped in the shadow monkey's (thankfully laundered) red scarf before being passed into Wukong's excited arms.

The baby isn't a direct copy of the Monkey King. Their face marking is a brownish half-heart that scatters into freckles at their chubby cheeks. Their fur is a silky brown-black almost the texture and shade of Macaque's(!!). They keep their eyes closed for the moment, far more interested in latching on to their birth parent's chest for their first meal.

And if Wukong doesn't feel like he's holding a little piece of heaven in his arms right now, he'd be lying to himself.

Wukong: "Xiaotian. You are my Xiaotian."

A series of quiet Awws ripples through the room and into the hallway beyond the closed doors. The Queen Mother even smiles.

SWK wins his case against Heaven and Diyu for his mate's soul. Even the gods can't bare to separate this new family. Preparations are made to apprehend the Lady Bone Demon for creating a geas that violated Diyu's laws.

PIF pays Fire Star generously for their lawyering.

[thescarlettbitch]

Modern witch tips ✨️

Vehicle edition!

I know it's hard to connect with nature when you're in urban/densely populated areas, or in a big man made machine, but here are some tips that have helped me.

But first, please, please, please if you are feminine/fem presenting, know the dangers of having your car too feminine looking!

Your car is an extension of yourself! Keep it clean, to the best of your abilities. Go through a car wash and imagine it washing away the negativity as well.

Protective stones/spell bottles/sigils. If you're in the broom closet or are worried about the people who frequent your car being weirded out, stick them in the glove compartment, the console, the little door compartments. Use things meant to protect travelers, or just generic protection things.

Air fresheners can be witchy! You can find a hundred shops on Etsy or TikTok that make special air fresheners (for star signs, deities, fictional characters, manifestation, etc), and you can charge them with certain intent or whatever, or make your own!

Playlists that embody the feeling you want for the day. Have a bad bitch Playlist to manifest confidence and play it on your drive. Make a deity playlist and play that to feel them with you as you drive.

Roll down those windows (if safe)! Let the fresh wind wash away your negativity and breathe in the scent of the earth (if it's safe!)

Take backroads, stay off main drags, take in the natural surroundings. (Again, if safe) don't be afraid to use a GPS so you don't get lost

Park your car in a park, if possible, as often as you can. Visit parks, they can help you reconnect.

Go for a litter drive, as I call it, don protective clothing (like gloves) and pick up bits of litter you find SAFELY and dispose of it correctly.

Key chains made with protective crystals, rear view mirror hanging witches ladder, Decals with sigils, stickers on the dash, etc. (Remember, it can be dangerous to have your car be clearly owned by a woman, so be careful, I personally take my overly fem seeming decorations down when I am parking in urban areas.

Lock your mirrors! Make sure no bad energy can get trapped in there and that nothing can come out.

And I think that's all I got! Feel free to drop more. Stay safe, drive safe, be witchy, blessed be <3

[kaylinalexanderbooks]

Incorrect Quotes

Thanks @mysticstarlightduck here!

Rules: use this incorrect quotes generator to make some incorrect quotes for your OCs!

Jedi: I can’t do this, it’s against my moral compass.

Gwen: YOUR MORAL COMPASS IS A ROULETTE WHEEL!

Jedi: …Your point?

Maddie: Hey, Jedi?

Jedi: Yeah?

Maddie: Can a person breathe inside a washing machine while it’s on?

Jedi:

Jedi: Where’s Ash?

Carmen: Robbie...

Robbie: I can tell by the tone of your voice that you are disappointed. Alas, I must further disappoint you by affirming how little I give a fuck.

Akash: I can do anything I put my mind to. I once figured out Noelle's phone number just by choosing random numbers.

Robbie: God has let me live another day and I'm going to make it everyone's problem.

Rose: Would you take a bullet for me?

Jedi: ...yes?

*Maddie angrily burst into the room*

Rose: *running away* Great, thanks!

Jedi: I’m a multitasker!

Jedi: I can disappoint fifteen people at once.

Jedi: I may be antisocial and unattractive.

Carmen: ...but?

Jedi: That's all.

Gwen: Isn’t it weird how we pay money to see other people?

Robbie: You mean movies?

Maddie: Concerts?

Ash: Prostitutes?

Gwen: Wha…N-no, I mean glasses, what the fuck-

Maddie: How do ethical philosophers feel about murder?

Lexi: Well, it’s frowned upon.

Maddie: Okay, but what if the reason you want to murder someone is to make your life easier?

Maddie: That’s okay, right?

Rose: Hey.

Kelsey: Hey?

Rose: I can't sleep. :/

Kelsey: I can. Goodnight.

Akash: You have your weirdly sincere humility.

Kelsey: I prefer the term "self-loathing", actually.

Ash: All the sudden I got a random burst of energy, and I think it's my body's last hurrah before it completely shuts down.

Rose: I WOULD DESTROY THE WORLD FOR YOU!

Lexi: Okay, can you do the dishes?

Rose: No!

Gwen: Am I going to far?

Lexi: No, no, no. You went too far about 7 hours ago. Now you’re going to prison.

Maddie: You know you've made it when you see your picture everywhere you go.

Lexi: Those are wanted posters!

Gwen: Guys it’s a shooting star, let’s make a wish!

Rose: I wish for good grades.

Maddie: Nerd.

Rose: Nevermind, I wish upon the shooting star to fall down at a 30° velocity aiming for Maddie. :)

Gwen: Rose…

Lexi: Sorry it took so long to bail you out of jail.

Robbie: No, it was my fault. I shouldn't have used my phone call to prank call the police station.

This was fun!

I'll tag @happypup-kitcat24 @monstrouswrites @museandquill @pluppsauthor @pluto-murphy-writes

+ ANYONE ELSE

TSP intro

TSP tag list (ask to be +/-): @thepeculiarbird @illarian-rambling @televisionjester @finchwrites

@nebula--nix @literarynecromancy @honeybewrites @the-golden-comet

[defiantcurse]

just the beginning of something i wrote! i also don’t know if it’s going to break it on its own or if i have to put stuff under the break anyway college au, literature student!dazai & skater!chuuya

His day started like any other, at 11am oversleeping and nearly missing his bus to university for what was probably the dozenth time already that semester. Dazai took a calculated risk by staying up all night to finish his paper but he was never one for mathematics. He could answer the problems but never had the ability to explain how he got his answers. He thanked his lucky stars that he'd already earned his math credits.

It's at this point that he realized he forgot to grab coffee before hopping on the bus and he was going to have to buy an energy drink on campus. He wondered if Kunikida would chastise him about it again or if he could get away with it.

Hopping off the bus he hurried along the sidewalks, not ready for his second semester midterms which were rapidly approaching. It was crunch time and that's why he'd been up so late anyway. Editing his rough draft for a midterm paper.

Fatigue started washing over him as he entered the campus building, beelining for the hallway with the vending machines where it appeared someone was trying to hijack the machine. The redhead stood little more than five feet tall and had his little arm halfway up the machine to get the can that was stuck. Dazai couldn't help the small snicker at the other man's predicament. He also ignored the part of him that admitted he'd do the same thing to get his hands on caffeine.

"Oh sure laugh at me now asshole, what about the drink you came to get for yourself? You can't get it out if this one's stuck," the shrimp said from where he was crouched on the floor.

Dazai leaned in and said, "Well if you would be so nice as to move out of the way I can solve both of our problems."

The man to his credit seemed a little sheepish as he extracted his arm from the vending machine, standing up and stepping back to allow Dazai access. Dazai then grips the top of the vending machine with one hand, the other on the side of it as he swings his hip out and into the machine, successfully dislodging the can inside. Dazai reached down and grabbed the soda, handing it to the surprised redhead.

"See? Good things come to those who wait Chibi,"He said with a shit eating grin.

"Excuse me Chibi? What kind of nickname is that for someone you just met??" The redhead said indignantly.

Dazai puts a hand out and squishes the air atop the other man's head and said, "You're chibi sized! Of course I'm going to call you Chibi!"

"Well if you had cared to ask my NAME is Chuuya, call me that instead. Anything but Chibi."

"Chuuuya~" Dazai rolled his name over his lips like smoke from a dragon's maw, a notable singsong effect to the name. "What a fitting name."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Chuuya said defiantly, already popping off again.

Dazai's watch buzzed then, letting him know he only had five minutes to make it to class.

"Unfortunately for you, slug, I've got class, catch you later!"

Chuuya's indignant shout of "SLUG?" follows behind him as he runs to not be late to class. As he sits in his seat he realizes he never got caffeine and that this was going to be a long morning in lab with Kunikida.

[dexter-doll]

THE SUNS AND MOONS INCORRECT QUOTES PART 2 (star edition)

——————————————————

Twilight: I’m telling you, my team is competent.

Estella, rushing in: Twilight! Soul tried to make pasta in the coffee pot and now it's broken!

————

Soul, to Twilight and Estella: *holding trident out in front of them* {Are you or are you not an enemy of the people?!}

Twilight: ...

Estella: ...

Twilight: That is such an open-ended question.

Estella: Yeah, it really depends on a lot of different factors-

————

Twilight, watching Estella do something stupid: Soul, you're officially only the second highest risk here.

Soul: {Hell yeah! I'm gonna—}

Twilight: Don't finish that sentence, you'll move back up.

————

Estella: Soul and I were crossing the street, and this person drove by and honked at us.

Twilight: What did you do?

Estella: He chased them to the next red light, and reached into their window, and-

Soul: *walking in* {Who wants a steering wheel?}

————

Soul: {I have so much energy, I want to run a marathon or commit a crime... which should I do?}

Twilight: Please don’t get arrested.

Soul: {No promises! <3}

Estella: Why not both? Get creative!

Soul: {Wonderful suggestion, thank you.}

Twilight: Please don’t encourage him, Estella.

————

Twilight: It's locked. You got a lock pick?

Estella: Yeah-

Soul: *kicks in the door*

————

Twilight: It’s Pride Month, you know what that means!

Estella: I get to eat as many Skittles as I want?

Twilight: What? No! What has Soul been telling you?

Soul, walking in, pouring Skittles into his mouth: {Taste the rainbow, bitch.}

————

*Something crashes*

Estella: Shoot-

Twilight: *running into the room in a panic* WHAT FELL?!

Soul: *walking by the room calmly* {What died?}

————

Soul: {Uh, I think I got your lunch.} *Holds up a note that reads: ‘I am very proud of you. Love, Twilight’*

Estella: Oh yeah. I didn’t think this was for me. *Holds up a note that reads: ‘Be good. For the love of God, Please be good.’*

————

Twilight: Soul, you’re in charge!

Estella: Soul, can we start a fire?

————

Soul: {Don't worry, I've got a few knives up my sleeve.}

Twilight: I think you mean cards.

Estella: He didn’t.

Soul, pulling out knives: {I did not.}

————

Soul, in a high voice, holding Barbie: {Hey, Ken! I was thinking about going back to school and starting a career!}

Estella, in a deep voice, holding Ken: Nonsense, Barbie. You’re staying home and having my kids.

Twilight: What the buck are you guys doing?

Soul: {Playing systemic oppression.}

————

Estella: Why does Twilight always do the laundry so loudly?

Soul: {So everyone knows that no one helps her out in the house.}

Twilight, in the distance: *slams the washing machine shut*

————

*Soul rushes by with an armful of water bottles*

Estella: What's going on?

Twilight: Soul wouldn't drink water.

Estella: ...And?

Twilight: And I asked him how fast he could chug an entire bottle.

Soul, loudly: {16 OUNCES IN TEN SECONDS, BITCHES!}

————

Estella: How did you even get in here?

Soul: {Twilight's window! Or, as I like to call it, "Soul's door"!}

Twilight: I’m closing the window.

————

Twilight: And here we see Soul and Estella in their natural habitat. Texting eachother variations of the word "garlic bread" to try to make eachother laugh.

Soul: {Gaelic bread.}

Estella: Grueling brad.

Soul: {Ha ha, glamorous beans.}

————

@crossover-enthusiast

[candidscape]

Eco-Friendly Interior Design: Sustainable Solutions for Your Home

As awareness of environmental issues grows, eco-friendly interior design is becoming increasingly popular. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also contributes to a more sustainable and healthier environment. Here’s how you can embrace sustainable solutions in your interior design:

1. Choose Sustainable Materials

Opt for materials that are eco-friendly and have a minimal environmental impact. Look for:

Bamboo: A rapidly renewable resource used for flooring, furniture, and decor.

Recycled Glass: Ideal for countertops and tiles, recycled glass reduces waste and adds a unique touch.

Reclaimed Wood: Salvaged from old buildings or furniture, reclaimed wood offers a rustic charm and helps reduce deforestation.

2. Opt for Low-VOC Paints

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in traditional paints can negatively impact indoor air quality. Choose low-VOC or no-VOC paints that are less harmful and contribute to a healthier living environment. Many eco-friendly paint options come in a wide range of colors and finishes, so you don’t have to compromise on style.

3. Incorporate Energy-Efficient Lighting

Energy-efficient lighting solutions not only reduce your energy bills but also minimize your environmental footprint. Consider:

LED Bulbs: They use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan.

Smart Lighting Systems: These systems allow you to control lighting remotely and set schedules to minimize energy use.

4. Use Sustainable Fabrics

When selecting textiles for your home, choose fabrics that are both stylish and sustainable. Options include:

Organic Cotton: Grown without harmful chemicals, organic cotton is soft and eco-friendly.

Hemp: A durable and versatile fabric that requires minimal water and pesticides.

Recycled Polyester: Made from recycled plastic bottles, it helps reduce waste and can be used for upholstery and curtains.

5. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

Modern appliances that are ENERGY STAR® rated use less energy and water, helping you reduce your household’s carbon footprint. Look for energy-efficient models for your refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances.

6. Embrace Upcycling and Repurposing

Give old furniture and decor a new life through upcycling and repurposing. This approach reduces waste and adds unique character to your home. Consider:

Painting or Reupholstering Furniture: Transform outdated pieces into stylish, custom creations.

Repurposing Materials: Use reclaimed materials for DIY projects, such as creating a coffee table from an old door or shelves from wooden pallets.

7. Integrate Indoor Plants

Indoor plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also improve air quality by filtering pollutants. Opt for low-maintenance plants like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies, which are known for their air-purifying properties.

8. Choose Sustainable Flooring Options

Eco-friendly flooring options can dramatically change the look and feel of your space. Consider:

Cork Flooring: Made from the bark of cork oak trees, it’s renewable and offers natural insulation.

Linoleum: Made from natural materials like linseed oil and wood flour, it’s biodegradable and comes in various colors and patterns.

Recycled Carpet: Made from recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, it provides comfort while reducing waste.

9. Implement Water-Saving Fixtures

Conserving water is an essential aspect of eco-friendly design. Install:

Low-Flow Faucets and Showerheads: These fixtures reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.

Dual-Flush Toilets: Offer two flushing options to minimize water consumption.

10. Support Local and Artisan Products

Choose locally-made and artisan products to reduce transportation emissions and support local economies. Local artisans often use sustainable practices and materials, adding a unique touch to your home while minimizing your environmental impact.

By integrating these eco-friendly interior design solutions, you can create a home that reflects your commitment to sustainability while enjoying a stylish and comfortable living space. Embracing these practices not only benefits the environment but also promotes a healthier lifestyle for you and your family.

[kitchenappliancesadelaide-posts]

Best Kitchen Appliances for Small Spaces: Maximizing Efficiency

In today's compact living environments, maximizing kitchen space while maintaining functionality and efficiency is essential. Choosing the right kitchen appliances for small spaces can significantly enhance your cooking experience and streamline daily tasks. This guide explores essential appliances designed to fit seamlessly into smaller kitchens, optimizing both space and efficiency.

Compact Refrigerators: Space-Saving Cooling Solutions

Compact refrigerators are ideal for small kitchens, offering essential cooling without occupying excessive space. These appliances typically feature a small footprint while providing adequate storage for fresh produce, beverages, and frozen items. Look for models with adjustable shelves and door bins to customize storage according to your needs.

Efficient Dishwashers: Cleaning Convenience in Limited Space

Compact dishwashers are perfect for smaller kitchens where traditional built-in models might not fit. These appliances offer the convenience of automated dishwashing without compromising on cleaning power. Look for energy-efficient models with multiple wash cycles and adjustable racks to accommodate various dish sizes and shapes.

Versatile Cooktops: Maximizing Cooking Flexibility

Induction cooktops are a popular choice for small kitchens due to their compact size and efficient cooking capabilities. These cooktops use electromagnetic technology to heat cookware directly, offering precise temperature control and rapid heating. Consider models with touch controls and safety features like automatic shut-off for enhanced usability and peace of mind.

Space-Saving Ovens: Compact Baking Solutions

Compact ovens, such as countertop or built-in models, are excellent for small kitchens where space is at a premium. These ovens come in various sizes and configurations, including convection and microwave combinations, offering versatility for baking, roasting, and reheating. Look for models with intuitive controls and easy-to-clean interiors for added convenience.

Microwave Ovens: Quick and Efficient Cooking

Microwave ovens are indispensable in small kitchens for their speed and efficiency in reheating and cooking. Opt for compact models that can be placed on countertops or mounted above cooktops to save valuable counter space. Look for features like sensor cooking and preset programs for hassle-free operation.

Stylish Rangehoods: Enhancing Air Quality and Space Efficiency

Rangehoods are essential for ventilation in small kitchens, effectively removing smoke, odors, and grease while cooking. Choose slimline or under-cabinet models that fit snugly above cooktops without obstructing overhead cabinet space. Look for quiet operation and adjustable fan speeds for optimal performance.

Coffee Machines: Compact Brewing Solutions

Coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite brews in small kitchens with compact coffee machines. Consider single-serve espresso machines or drip coffee makers that fit neatly on countertops or in kitchen nooks. Look for programmable settings and easy maintenance features to streamline your morning routine.

Choosing the Right Kitchen Appliances: Factors to Consider

When selecting kitchen appliances for small spaces, consider the following factors to ensure optimal efficiency and functionality:

Size and Dimensions: Measure your kitchen space carefully to determine the maximum dimensions that appliances can occupy without overcrowding.

Functionality: Prioritize appliances that offer multiple functions or versatile features to maximize utility in limited space.

Energy Efficiency: Opt for appliances with high Energy Star ratings to minimize energy consumption and reduce utility costs.

Ease of Maintenance: Choose appliances with easy-to-clean surfaces and removable parts for hassle-free maintenance.

Conclusion

Finding the best kitchen appliances for small spaces involves strategic planning and consideration of space-saving designs, functionality, and efficiency. Whether you're outfitting a tiny apartment kitchen or a compact urban loft, prioritize appliances that optimize space without compromising on performance. Explore the latest innovations from top kitchen appliance brands to create a functional and stylish culinary space tailored to your needs.

By integrating these compact and efficient appliances into your kitchen design, you can maximize every square inch while enjoying the convenience and comfort of modern cooking technology. Invest in quality appliances that enhance your cooking experience and complement your lifestyle in small spaces.

[softlantern]

Hello! I stumbled upon your blog, saw Layra, amd immediately wanted to know more about the star bean!

What are some fun facts about her?

Also, have some cookies for you and Layra.

Hey, hi!!:D Thank you very much for your question. It's so nice when someone is interested in learning about your OC. 😌💖Sorry for so much of text, I couldn't stop, phphph-

Thanks for the cookies! Layra happily shares it with you. I imagined it with chocolate chips.🍪

General facts:

- Layra's voice sounds like Sofia the First's.👸

- When she laughs, it feels like someone is playing on glasses.

- She chose the child form because she is energetic, open, childish and cute. Although psychologically speaking, she behaves and thinks far from like an ordinary child. She can suddenly become very serious and tell you quite wise conscious words.

- Speaking about her awareness, she has it at its best from the very beginning. I wish I had her sense of reality.:"D

- Terrible sweet tooth. She especially likes sweets that would make people's teeth hurt from the amount of sugar in them.🍬🧁

- When she is very excited she begins to vibrate. Like a washing machine at high speed. At the same time, she heats up significantly and starts to shine more. You may think that she begins to look like a mirage in the desert.🏜

- Everyone who has ever heard her sing asks her not to do it again. The sound is certainly very pleasant, but the side effect is that it affects the energy of the people around. And you just sit there and think, “Holy stars, why is this making me feel like I’m on a emotional roller coaster??”. Makes you feel extremely intense emotions.💗

- Very tactile. Her primary love language is touch. Plus, she likes to touch everything around her, especially if it’s something soft, fluffy and warm.🧣

- She has a collection of blankets.

- Always open and honest, can be painfully straightforward.

- Adapts very quickly to the environment, adapting sufficiently to its norms, but always maintaining her core and basic principles. Very useful, since she often deals with inhabitants from different worlds.

Facts about her in Collector Wally AU:

- she often has two roses in her hair, since she accidentally got into the Collector’s pocket dimension and fell on his bushes with roses. A couple of them got stuck in her hair, and when she looked in the mirror she decided that it suited her very well.:D 🌹

- tries to help Helper around the house as best as she can. It doesn't work out very well. He tries to keep her mostly away from dishes and window cleaning. But she cleans the floors very quickly and well. Everything is sparkling all around.🌟

- since she has never had a family relationship before, she does not understand that someone can become attached to her in return, love her or be worried for her. She was very surprised to learn that she is important to Helper and  Collector. But also very happy. :) 💞💗

- When Collector has nightmares, she can drive them away, but for this she needs to be nearby. He doesn’t know that she does this and thinks that she’s just very clingy, finding her next to him in the morning. :"D

- Also, before Helper pointed out that her hair is weird it was like that. Unstable and so beautiful🌌:

[unlimitedhorsepower]

i dont really understand how sims works so i downloaded perfect new hair for yuri... but then i couldnt find it in the hair options so went to fiddle with his moms looks instead and saw the hair is in there. only for the female frame i guess. but its HAIR. why is hair like that when you can equip any frame clothing to any sim:/

someone fix that right now, the economy is dying... his hair is pretty fitting with the constraints i have but i thought i could make it better... i dont understand anything i just know how to click download and use funny hypersaturated shaders to take pics of my sims. pictures related

hes wearing ugly socks and slippers bc his house has the “slippers inside” rule.... so real to me

pictures of his Evil Lair under the cut

look. his depression hole i built him in his house. hes not even in the military career for that object but i gave it to him anyway. he is, in fact, a judge

i need to build it a bit more somehow but yeah this is the floor plan (build shader on btw). entry to 2nd floor with washing machines and such, small storage room, yuris room and bathroom, and entrance to his lunatic lair hidden behind that book case (it is a secret door)

his bedroom (shaders off). i try to balance character opinions with sims utility (like the chessboard is there so he can gain logic) etc. i chose the petrov house to have grandma house energy with a lot of green bc idk green:)

small space for his desk and entrance to 2nd floor bathroom

his bathroom. yes the mirror is partially uncovered by a tarp on purpose. (vague gesturing) uhm you see he has 1983782 mental ailments

downstairs its not so important. mr. legend urn is on couch table rn bc his spirit was fading so i made olga pray to him idfk. and he achieved highest fame so he has that ugly commemorative walk of fame star in olgas bedroom. i initially tried to build this house to be wheelchair-accessible despite there being no wheelchairs in sims (hence no rugs in the hallway esp and large entrance to olgas room and the kitchen) but it was really hard within the space constraints i had and the way sims works lol (shaders on)

also the stairs to 2nd floor are protected by a gate and only yuri can enter