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purpleyellow · 4 years ago

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It’s not enough

NCT 24th member / Dream 8th member

Bee’s Masterlist

“The remarkable world of Mark Lee’s mind” or, Mark rethinkgs his entire history with Bee.

a/n: I finished it!! Feel free to share your thoughts with me. Requests are open!💛 this gif is peak devastation

All Mark could think when Bee first joined the group was “Thank God for Lee Jeno”.

Noticing that while she didn’t know how to express herself in front of them, Jeno was the first to give her a sense of comfort. Mark, after getting nervous for not knowing how to be helpful, told himself that eventually, Bee would get close to him too. He had a year, after all, to become friends and grow a bond with her.

Except that a year doesn’t last that long and little girls don’t come with instructions.

He knows she cried on his last showcase with Dream. But Mark has a feeling she only did so because of the occasion. She was seeing the seven best friends she witnessed together being separated, and that’s a heartbreaking sight when you know how close they are together.

Two years later, Mark realizes that was his big mistake. It wasn’t on purpose but along the way, he isolated the girl from their original friend group, and maybe it’s what caused some sort of distance in between them.

The year following his departure was an eventful one, and the boy grew a lot, experienced a lot, and learned a lot. The best part of everything being that whenever he met with their little friend group, his spot was intact and everything was the same. Except for Bee. Mark would see how she had inevitably built her own place within the dreamies, and it had him feeling weirdly left out even though they were perfectly coexisting.

They went on being coworkers and labeling each other as friends despite the weird lack of bond, until, of course, the whole “crush” fiasco went down. Mark saw himself and the girl going from, no correlation besides being in the same friend group, to suddenly facing a crisis that revolved around her feelings and his lack of knowledge about how she works.

The image he had of her, was built on a shallow level based on how others perceived her. That’s his second mistake. Jeno, and some of his Hyungs, were almost protective over Bee. Renjun and Jaemin treated her like their personal teddy bear. Haechan, Chenle, and to some extent Jisung were not worth going over in his head, because he thought that if he joked around as they did, she would probably get offended.

So there Mark was, trying to work around, this seemingly fragile character, while finding out that she saw him as a friend more than he did to her. And that maybe all the stress he had gone through to make sure she was being “protected” was worthless and seemingly ignored. He was a bit selfish for wanting to do the right thing simply for others to notice him, but that’s how he knew things. That's how he had to build a career for himself, he needed to get recognition from others to do the things he had done. And maybe connecting everything to work was another mistake.

“What’cha thinking about?” Chenle throws his coat on top of Mark’s head after realizing the practice room wasn’t empty. Though the boy was so deep in thought he didn’t realize the idol had arrived until he announced himself.

“Just life” Mark groans while laying back on the ground, his phone left on the floor next to him. The younger boy walked to the side, taking a glance at the screen before smirking.

“And by life, do you mean someone special?” He teases and Mark's hands fly to the device, the notes app open on the words he had mindlessly typed. He knew Chenle didn’t have time to actually read everything, but the title gave away enough. “The little ballerina”

“I’m trying to see things through a different lens” The Canadian spoke looking sideways at him. Gesturing he continued “Yesterday, I tried talking to her back at the van, but to be honest I had no idea what to say. Apparently, there's no good way to approach it, but I kind of feel like there might be”

“Markie, Markie. Don’t overthink anything. What do we do when we have a schedule that we’re not particularly good at?” Chenle placed a hand behind his ear and waited for the boy to say.

“We go ahead and just do it”

“So do just that” The boy snapped, “Between you and me, Yun-hee doesn't know what she wants. At one point she's all certain about 'moving on' or whatever, yet then when you ask her for any details of what she's feeling, she completely ignores you”.

“You asked her about it?” Mark's head snaps up frowning and the boy nods. “What did she say? Does-”

“Did you not listen to what I just say? She brushed me off” Chenle rolls his eyes “But I think she still likes you if that's worth something. Maybe not the way she did back when Haechan dropped the bomb”.

“What do you mean? Like a friend?” He questions confused, decreasing the younger's patience.

“No, Mark. The same way you like her now”.

“Chenle, I already told her, and all of you, that I don't feel like that towards Bee” Mark’s tone gets more serious and the younger groans annoyed.

“You two are so slow, we literally have to put words in your mouth to get things going” Chenle speaks quicker trying to get his point across. “It's really obvious you care about Bee more than you did at the beginning of last year. And okay, let's say you don't have a little thing for her or whatever, but you do want to have some sort of relationship with her, don't you?”

“Yeah, being friends for once would be nice” Mark nods, sarcastically, and gets up from the floor. “I really just want this all to end”

Mark left the room shortly after and being honest with himself, he felt a little light-headed with everything Chenle just told him. Putting most things aside to revisit once he had a clearer mind, the boy decided to put into use the one good advice he could find in the middle of everything. When you have a particularly hard task, you just have to go ahead and do it.

So with that, his plan was built. And by plan, he means to have no prepared speech, and no questions to ask, instead figure out everything after he finally finds a way of talking to her, which has been harder than anticipated.

A couple of days later, while he went down to the sm cafe before it was time to be at the studio, Mark quite literally froze in place at the sight of a certain Stray Kids member standing near a wall.

Waving shyly at him and Renjun, Seungmin waited awkwardly to see if they would come near him.

"Bee shouldn't take much longer" Renjun caught Mark by surprise, as he approached the boy calmly "Her recording session is almost done, but we can show you the studio if you want to wait for her there"

"No, it's fine" Seungmin smiled, though a little intimidated by Mark's frown. "I'll just sit wherever if it takes too long"

"I'm sorry, you two are going out?" The laugh followed by Mark's question was a little nervous, considering he had only seen the boy a few times yet here he was waiting for Bee to be done so they could do... something?

"No, no. Bee's going to meet Moon, I'm just the intermediate" Seungmin tries to joke but Renjun is the only one laughing. Clearing his throat, he explains further "My group was nearby and we're meeting Ateez for dinner so Moon asked if I could come to pick her up"

"Yun-hee is staying over at her dorm" Renjun adds, glaring sideways at the Canadian. "A sleepover or whatever you want to call it" The three fall silent after he's done talking and Mark runs over an explanation as to why he's feeling so frustrated over this conversation.

He and Bee hadn’t properly spoken since the award show shooting. And while forced interactions were the bare minimum, the boy felt as if the distance they kept had triplicated its length. It made him feel odd to see her act normally with everyone, including a boy she hadn’t spoken to for a year. So why couldn’t they be normal as well?

"Well, I'm going ahead and get a coffee. She should be coming anytime, though being late is kind of expected at this point" The comment from Renjun makes Seungmin chuckle and both boys nod to each other. Turning to Mark, he frowns at his wondering expression "You coming?"

"I'm heading up actually, it's my turn on studio 3" He shakes his head and waves at them. The elevator doesn't seem to take much longer to arrive, which Mark thinks might be some weird doing of fate, considering as soon as he makes it to his floor, Bee is walking along the hallway. Or was, because she changes her path the moment she spots him

Acting purely on instinct might not be the smartest thing to do, the boy thinks to himself while chasing her through the building without any idea of what he wants to say once "catching" her. Maybe Kun hiding Bee in his studio and obviously lying to him was a good thing, or at least it gave him another day to think about where he wants to stand with her.

Ironically, a couple of days after, he's in fact standing in front of a door while thinking if he should or not enter and hopefully settle everything. Mark opens the door slowly, analyzing the small room with two chairs in which she's sitting on one.

“Can we talk now?” He waits for her positive to walk inside and Bee does so by simply nodding. Her eyes looked a little tired and uninterested, but the small tremor on her hands told him how present she really was. And just like the first time they met, her nervousness contaminated him, and they just sat inside the small room without looking at each other in silence.

"I, um, have been thinking about everything since that game night" Mark clears his throat and starts speaking towards the floor "And, not that you owe me anything, but I'd just like to know what happened"

Frowning, Bee quickly glances at him "What do you mean, what happened?"

"When did you start, kind of seeing me in that way. And how did it stop, I guess. It just feels like a lot happened that I'm not aware of, and it's making me look back and reconsider some stuff, I'll explain that later, just let me know what I missed"

Bee thought of how she would put things into words and twirled the ring on her finger, taking a deep breath she tried to make herself comfortable on the chair

"It started around when you came back from the SuperM tour. Or maybe before that, I'm not sure” She sighs and picks at her nails “It seemed like that boy I met was gone after you graduated, and you became this even cooler rapper, you became more confident in yourself, literally embodied SM's favorite child. I sort of became stunned, this feels really weird to say, but I couldn't really recognize you"

Mark slowly looks at Bee while she's talking and carefully listens, he feels a little more comfortable not to look away once she raises her head again. Once she stops, he nods turning his chair a little so they're more face to face.

"You feel out of it after you find out I'm still the awkward boy from before" His jokes make her shrug as opposed to the giggle he expected to hear.

"That happened, but also, you did turn me down" Bee bites her lip regretting the word choice "Not that I'm mad, or really hoped for anything, I simply didn't want to push anything or make things too weird. That's why going back to normal was such a huge thing, but it's been a really long time since then and we still don't know how to do that, I guess"

"Maybe it's because we didn't exactly have a normal, at least not the one we're trying to do right now" Mark catches her attention and she gestures for him to keep going "Thinking back to when we first met, we never got close just the two of us. The others were always around, and even then, I can't recall us sticking together or anything. That might be why you thought I was different"

"It makes sense" The girl mumbles tilting her head and frowning. If he was true, that would mean her crush had been based on this picture of him she drew on her head. And while part of it certainly was, Bee also knows that a little percentage came from his actual responsible yet boyish and kind personality she still appreciates to this day.

"I guess it does" Mark nods reading her face "We should probably find a way to work around that. Just get closer in general, I guess. Find out what our dynamic is like without blending in with the rest of the boys and ignoring each other" He speaks hopefully, but Bee fears it might not work again.

"But, what if this is it for us. We didn't naturally become friends, so maybe accountancies it's what we should stick with" She doesn't know if she meant it, or was scared of this whole 'finding out' deal and its consequences. From what she knew, Bee could easily slip back into her feelings for him and end up breaking her face again.

Yet Mark wasn't having it. He'd spent way too much time, especially lately, noticing how she was comfortable with the others, and the nice chemistry they had. He felt left out, not as in ignored, but Bee was sweet, and a little quirky which also made her funny, but still very caring, and he never denied she was pretty. He wanted to know what it’s like to be her friend like the others are. Though this moment might be the first time he questions if a friendship will be enough for him.

"Let's put an effort this time" He shakes his head dismissing her comment "We can stick around in the practice room a little longer now that our schedules mostly match. And you know, hang out together more, no running away or ignoring each other"

"Are you sure this is going to work?" Bee bounces up her leg and thinks a little bit.

"For what it's worth, we can try. We spent a good time in here and it didn't get awkward, so there’s hope" Mark giggles and she follows him "It'll make the teamwork better if you need a greater good to support your decisions"

"Okay" Bee nods making him shyly hold out a fistbump to her. Making up a quick and weird handshake, they laugh together lighting up the mood a little.

"Just a little request" The girl stops Mark as he's getting up "Let's not rush things, you know. Make it more natural than acting like we're forcefully acting as friends"

"Yeah, sure" Mark pats her head opening the door. And to everyone, especially the dreamies’, happiness, they're a little less awkward around each other.

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enigmawrappedinhypocrisy · 4 years ago

Note

I've recently really gotten into your blog and I love how you write Barley, I'm very interested by the NSFW because I didn't expect this much love for him from the community! I wanted to request something NSFW if it's okay :)! I like the concept between fem reader and Barley ending up doing the deed in his van ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) (Could I add that during this deed, Barley is very passionate and thorough as well as -not safe sex- 👀?) Thank you for your time, I look forward to your stories, take care! ❤️

Hey guess who totally didn’t forget about this sitting in my drafts 75% finished for a looooong time?!! Sorry

Okay… the nsfw things really take longer for me to come up with… it’s like… difficult for me to come up with something that doesn’t sound like bullet points or has bad pacing…

Aand I could not come up with an opener for this… all I kept thinking of was the premise for the other time there was sexy times in Barley’s van… and I couldn’t do that twice… And i’m not sure what you mean by ‘very passionate’ so hopefully this works…

Fandom: Onward

Pairing: Barley Lightfoot x Fem reader

Warnings: NSFW! Badly written Smut, Fingering, unsafe sex, some cum talk I guess... kinda upsetting language in the beginning...

❀✦ Master List✦❀

The day was warm and bright, your parents were having their annual summer party,

You were grateful Barley was there to help balance you, as the people invited tended to be a little… much...

Everything was okay for a while… you were able to avoid any uncomfortable discussions by spending a good amount of time in the kitchen ‘helping’ until your parents insisted you ‘join the fun’.

It only took a few minutes before the conversation outside shifted to you...

A great aunt commented that, “you’d be pretty if you dropped the weight…”

A cousin asked when you’re going to get married, and someone responded with something that sounded like “when she gets ‘in trouble’”

Your mother’s friend told you she thought you should date her son instead of that “troublemaker you were dating”.

And then politics…

It was very quickly becoming too much… and you needed out.

Barley had been helping your parents and was mostly kept away from the toxicity, until you texted him.

It didn’t take long for the back of the van to open revealing a concerned and slightly amused Barley.

“What happened?” He climbs in, shutting the door behind him.

You’re lying on the floor in the center of Guinevere. Barley joins you, on his side, facing you. His hand brushes some hair from your face.

You huff but give him a quick recap of what happened.

Barley frowns, “Want me to go talk to them? They shouldn’t be saying things like that...”

“No,” you sigh knowing that won't help…

But then a thought wormed its way into your head. You try to hide the smile that flashes across your face as you reach up and pull Barley down to you.

He smiles into the kiss, always happy to kiss you… and he’d be lying if he said he hadn’t missed being affectionate with you throughout the day. You had both decided earlier to keep the ‘lovey stuff’ to a minimum around your family in order to avoid… well… basically what ended up happening anyway…

When he was distracted you shifted your position so you were now on top of him. Barley’s hands instinctively move to your hips, “What are you doing?” he smiles up at you.

You return his smile with a smirk, before rocking your hips against his.

“You know I’m always up for this but your family…” Barley blushes as you tug off your shirt.

It was if you didn’t care if you got caught… or maybe you wanted to… to show those people… something… your feelings were all jumbled at the moment and you’d decided to just go with them. Barley made you feel safe to share those kinds of feelings with. And you wanted him right now! In his van, on the curb, in front of your house.

You lean down to nibble on his neck, whispering breathlessly to him that you don’t care, and “let them be miserable while we’re having fun”

You reach back and quickly remove your bra, tossing it somewhere in the van.

Barley chuckles, “as long as I get to say ‘told you so’ if we get caught.”

“Deal” you lean back into a kiss, yelping when Barley retakes control.

He knows you’re still a little upset by their words, even if you won’t admit it, and Barley was more than happy to take the opportunity to take care of you.

He spends some time worshiping your body with his hands and mouth, sometimes nuzzling you playfully. He breathes soft words into your rapidly heating skin. Telling you how much he loves you, he wants to let you know how much he adores you, and your body.

Eventually he makes his way down to your waistline. Barley winks up at you playfully before pulling off your pants. He leans down and nips at your hip.

You giggle and nudge him with your foot.

He winks again before he works your panties down and off of you. Now you're fully nude in Barley's van… and he's not… You're about to bring it up when he brushes his hand along your slit.

You glare at him, at his cheeky smile, 'cause he knows just what he’s doing. He knows you want him now, and his teasing is not helping satiate that need.

The glare works, and Barley quickly continues, moving up your body to kiss you again. His hand continues to teasingly stroke along your folds, now moving with purpose and not just teasing.

Once he felt you were distracted by the kiss he slips a finger into you, smiling when you moan into his mouth. Before long he adds a second finger, stretching you, working you the way he knows you like. .

Pulling away slightly, Barley leaves some pecking kisses on your face, "You know I think you're beautiful, right?" He tells you, cheeks flushed.

You bite your lip looking up at him, a little distracted by his fingers inside you. "You're wonderful," you tell him.

"No you," Barley smiles, a little heart eyed. Before you could protest or add anything Barley hooks his fingers inside you unexpectedly, drawing out a surprised moan from you.

He continues his fingering while he leans forward, and begins marking your neck. He wants you to be able to look in the mirror later and know he loves you. You might have said those words didn’t bother you… but Barley wanted to make sure…

Your hands find their way into his hair, knocking his hat off in your haste, and gripping his hair.

Brushing his thumb firmly over your clit he quickly brings you to your first orgasm. Your insides twitching around his thick fingers, eyes shut tight. Barley withdraws and allows you as much time as you need to recover. He just enjoys watching you in bliss, a little proud to be the one responsible for it.

While you’re in your blissful post orgasmic state you find yourself keenly aware of the scents surrounding you. The cinnamon dragon shaped air freshener hanging from the rear view mirror. The obvious musk of sex, and then Barley, above all else you can smell him.

He’d made sure to dress up a little nicer, shave which made you a little sad, and wore the cologne you’d bought him for his birthday last year. The effort he’d put in to make a good impression filled your heart.

How’d I get so lucky? you muse to yourself, hooking a leg around Barley's hip, drawing him closer to you.

With a soft chuckle at your eagerness Barley leans forward, his forehead pressed against yours. “Someone’s eager” he teases, while already undoing his pants.

“If you don't hurry up” you threaten with a hiss, but are unable to keep the smile from your voice while you do it.

With your legs already wrapped around his waist Barley doesn’t have much room to move as he frees his cock from its fabric confins. He was plenty eager, himself, at this point, earlier reservations forgotten. Cock, standing tall, practically pulsing with anticipation. Barley didn’t know what he’d do If they were to be interrupted at this point, but as your hips buck against him all thoughts vanish the young elf’s mind.

He slips inside you with ease, your warmth already soaked from the earlier orgasm. Barley teases a little at first, starting with shallow thrusts, leaving you to chase after him. Your hips lift and tilt, trying to find the right angle to get him deeper, all the while Barley makes sure to keep just far enough away. The game doesn’t last long, however, as Barley soon finds the teasing too tough to take himself.

With a hand on your hip he gives a sudden thrust, pulling you to him at the same time, bottoming out inside you with a whine. His face buried in your neck as he tries to keep his noises to a minimum, grinding against you lazily.

Barley finds himself wondering how this can always feel like the best time… every time… always… but as you clench around him he’s pulled back into the moment.

Drawing back Barley crashes his lips against yours in a brief heated kiss, before beginning a bruising pace.

Your hands grip his arms as your head falls back, overwhelmed in pleasure. You’re rapidly approaching your second orgasm as Barley quickly finds and assaults a spot deep within you. A spot he’d long since learned, will cause you to see stars.

Barley grips your thigh, and wraps an arm around your back, and with little warning he pulls you up and into his lap. From this angle he’s able to thrust up into you while you writhe, and clench above him. He keeps you against him for a bit, staying deep within your warm walls as he focuses on those places inside you again.

It doesn’t take much more before you clench down on him, both on his cock and his neck, as your orgasm crashes upon you.

This time Barley doesn’t allow you to come down from it as he takes your hips in a more solid grip, and begins lifting you again. Dragging your spasming cunt along his cock, he’s barely able to keep a rhythm, overwhelmed by chasing his own pleasure at this point.

Barley repeatedly lets out your name in breathy whimpers. Not that he was really aware he was doing it. All the while you stroke his back, and moan encouragingly in his ear.

Biting down on your shoulder, Barley holds you tightly to him as his own orgasm finally hits. His whole body shudders, as he cums deep within you.

It only takes a moment for you and Barley to realize the mistake you’d made.

“Oops” you look up at him, biting your lip. You can already feel some of his cum leaking out of you around his now softening member.

Once he realizes, however, Barley’s eyes go wide, he quickly begins to apologize.

With a sympathetic smile you nuzzle into him, assuring him that it was okay, mistakes happen, and you’ll just need to stop at the drug store after the party.

“Besides, it’s kinda hot” you tell him with a mischievous smirk, “being around those judgmental people, only you and I knowing why my underwear is all wet”

It seems Barley didn’t know how to react, his ears flushing, a cum drunk smile stretching across his face. He wasn’t sure if he should be embarrassed or turned on, but a tone coming from your pants pulled him back to reality once again.

He watches you pull away from him and scramble to get your phone. His nerves return once he sees your face. You looked like you’d been caught sneaking a cookie.

“What?”

“We should go to the store now” you bite your lip holding out the phone so Barley could see the text from your mother.

“Your mom uses ‘lol’? Barley teases.

You glare at him over your shoulder, already in the process of redressing.

“Okay, okay” Barley chuckles, readjusting his pants, and starting the van “but don’t say I didn’t tell you so.”

Okay that’s all I got… see you all in another 3 months... Sorry

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therainroguefanfiction · 4 years ago

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♆ Yandere (Lord Harkon) Belong to Me

📑 Table of Contents

Genre: Angst, Vampire ☁

Word Count: 1,881 ☁

Pairing: Reader x Harkon ☁

World: Skyrim ☁

Prompt: #6: ”How else would they know you belonged to me?” ☁

Author’s Note: This was requested for the Yandere Set! If you’d like to request your own, please see my post [here] to check and see which are available~ I don’t know much about his personality as I’ve only done his questline once, but hopefully this isn’t too OOC.

━━━━━━༻♆༺━━━━━━

Boots echoed off of the stone walls of Castle Volkihar’s dungeon. The air was pungent with the smell of mold, blood, and death. The candles flickering on the walls barely made a dent in the darkness and you had to strain your eyes to make out the silhouette that had come to a stop in front of your cell. The metal books shook as a key was inserted into the lock and turned, the hinges creating a high-pitched squeal as the door was pushed open.

“Wake up,” hissed one of the low-level vampires that stalked the halls of the castle, his tongue darting out to wet his lower lip. When you didn’t move, he jammed the toe of his boot into your side, making you wince in pain. As a reflex, you tried to move your body away from him, but your wrists were pinned above you by metal cuffs screwed into the hall and you could not move. He squatted down in front of you, cold hand gripping your chin tightly as his glowing eyes focused on your neck, bruised and scarred from Harkon’s weekly feedings. “Your blood smells so damn good~”

Despite your current position and lack of power, you managed to glare at the Redguard. “And you smell like mammoth ass,”

Anger flashed through his eyes and, as quick as sabrecat, he backhanded you, sending your head to the right as you cried out in pain, your skin stinging. You were sure it would have hurt less if you stuck your head in a beehive. “I suggest you watch your tongue, mortal.” He spat, moving his hand to your throat and forcing your head further to the side so he had more access to your exposed throat.

You tried to pull your body away, but between his iron grip and the cuffs binding you, you didn’t stand a chance. In the year that you had been stuck at Castle Volkihar, no one had fed from you except for Harkon which, you supposed, had been a bit of a blessing. If just one vampire feeding from you left you feeling so drained and cloudy-headed, you couldn’t imagine what it must feel like for the other cattle, who get fed from by multiple vampires, sometimes all at once.

You had to repress the urge to gag as his cracked lips pressed against your skin. On instinct, your body tensed up in preparation for the sharp sting, which you tried to control knowing it would only make it hurt worse. His fangs scraped against the skin, making you take a shaky breath.

You waited, but instead of a sharp sting in your neck, you felt ice-cold liquid spray across your reddened cheek. The Redguard’s body fell backward onto the ground, his head rolling across the room and blood spurting from his neck. Your wide eyes snapped to the shadow hovering in the doorway, blood dripping from its sharp claws.

Lord Harkon, in his vampire lord form, huffed haughtily as he stared at the corpse in disgust, flicking his hand to remove the blood. “What arrogance, trying to take what does not belong to him. Vingalmo!”

The Altmer vampire appeared at his side, hands clasped behind his back. “Yes, my lord?”

“Have Y/N brought to my chambers,” his lip curled back as if he smelled something foul. “And then clean up this mess.”

“Yes, my lord.” Vingalmo bowed as his lord floated away down the dark hall.

You kept your eyes on the ground as he unlocked one of the cuffs, your arm falling to your lap like a bag of rocks. It was so numb, you could only just move your fingertips. As he worked on the second cuff, your eyes scanned the corpse in front of you, wondering if he carried a weapon of some sort on him.

Sensing this, the male kept his arm on your wrist rather than letting your second arm drop. “Come now, Y/N, we both know what will happen if you attempt to escape.” His voice was kind enough, but you could hear the warning lingering beneath the surface and you knew it was no idle threat.

When you had first been brought to the castle, you were full of fight and determined to escape your bloodsucking captors. You had even gotten close a few times, but each attempt was met with consequence. Food was withheld from you, Harkon nearly drained you dry on more than one occasion, your leg had been snapped in half and, finally, you were chained within the castle’s dungeon, stripped of light and sound where you were left to your own thoughts for weeks without end.

Where had your fight gone? At this point, you were too exhausted to care. It just wasn’t worth fighting anymore. Maybe if you behaved, you could finally be set free from the dungeon.

Vingalmo helped you to your feet, draping your thin body over his shoulder. You groaned, voice hoarse from a mixture of lack of use and water. “I may walk with a limp now, but I can walk, you know.”

He hummed as if he didn’t believe you. “Perhaps so, but in your weakened state, it would take you a minimum of a month’s time to reach my lord’s chambers.”

‘It’s not my fault this damned castle is huge,’ Your eyes narrowed at the ground. His boney shoulder poked into your ribs with every step, but it paled in comparison to your cheek and ribs. Your eyes slid closed as he stepped out into the dining hall.

The room immediately fell silent, everyone turning to stare at the two of you. They could smell their fallen brother’s blood upon your skin and they stirred with unease, not knowing if you had caused his death.

You could feel their eyes burning into your skin, some filled with hatred, others with hunger. After all, you were just a piece of meat to them. How much longer could Harkon milk your body before the blood finally stopped flowing? Would your taste change as you got older, or would it taste the same? You knew very little about vampires because your family banned talk of them from the house, claiming the tales to be nothing more than some hogwash story told by a drunken old man.

There was no denying their existence now, not for you.

Vingalmo ascended the grand staircase, pausing to knock on Harkon’s door. With no response, he pushed the heavy metal door open, unfazed by the high-pitched whine of the worn hinges. He picked you up, setting you on your feet, but your weak legs couldn’t take the sudden weight and you crumbled to your knees.

He sent you a look, as if that proved his earlier point, before clearing his throat. “Wait here. Lord Harkon will be with you soon.” He paused in the doorway, pulling a handkerchief from his pocket and tossing it at you. “Do try to clean up before he arrives.”

Your brow furrowed as he left the room, closing the door behind him. After so many escape attempts, why would he trust you to be alone? Maybe he sensed your growing compliance. After spending nearly two months in that dark, silent cell, he really couldn’t blame you.

You picked up the piece of cloth, scrubbing at your cheek and hoping you had gotten the majority of the blood off your skin. The skin was sensitive and it stung every time you touched it. With some effort, you managed to get the blood flowing back to your legs, trying to ignore the pins-and-needles feeling as you shakily got to your feet, the stone like ice against your skin.

You scanned the room, expecting to find Harkon standing within the shadows of the room, but you were alone. You moved closer to the fireplace, welcoming the warmth that was so rare within those walls. Your legs were starting to shake again, so you allowed your body to fall into the chair angled toward the fire.

A sigh passed your lips, eyes sliding closed as you focused on the crackling flames. For a moment, you felt at peace. At the very least, none of Harkon’s minions would be fool enough to enter his chambers without his permission, so you were safe from being used as a meal. You were so wrapped up in the temporary bliss that you didn’t notice the door opening and closing.

“Did I give you permission to sit upon my chair?”

Your body tensed and you nearly jumped out of the chair, wide eyes snapping toward the doorway where Harkon stood, arms crossed over his chest and thin brow raised. He stepped toward you, crooning his ringed index finger to indicate that he wanted you to stand. Slowly, you pulled yourself up, willing your legs not to give out on you again.

Harkon took your place, settling himself on the chair. To your surprise, he grabbed your hips and forced you back onto his lap, nails digging into your sides. Your heart raced at the sudden contact, a chill going down your spine when his breath fanned over your neck. “You seem to enjoy causing me trouble, Y/N.”

The way he hissed your name made your breath catch in your throat.

“To think that animal put his filthy hands on you,” His voice was measured, but the anger was clear as day to you as his hand lifted to your chin, tilting your head so he could observe your cheek. “Has he done this before?”

You weren’t sure if you should answer or not, but his grip on your waist and chin tightened in warning. “Y-Yeah… since he got here.”

Harkon’s aura darkened considerably. “And you didn’t feel the need to share this information?”

“I didn’t think it mattered,” you mumbled in response, feeling confused by his sudden change. Why was he so damn angry? You didn’t get it.

“Well, I intended to honor your will by not turning you, but…” He paused, his tongue licking up your neck, which was sensitive from all of his previous bites. “It seems I have been left with no choice.”

“W-Wait a minute -!” Fear gripped your heart and a surge of adrenaline rushed through your veins, but no matter how hard you fought, his grip was like steel.

But Harkon wasn’t listening, at least not to your words. “But, my dear Y/N, how else would they know you belonged to me? Listen to your heart race for me. I must admit, I will miss that sound, but I will grant you my gift, and you will rule by my side. Together, we will forge a realm of eternal darkness.”

“No, I -!”

His fangs sank into your neck, deeper than they ever had before. You cried out in pain, a searing heat rushing through your body as the curse entered your veins.

“No one else may touch you but I,” he hissed, dragging a nail across his wrist until blood poured from the wound. You tried to avoid him, but he forced his wrist upon your lips, the coppery taste of blood filling your mouth. “My blood flows within you now.”

The last thing you heard before darkness claimed you was the sound of his deep chuckle against your ear.

━━━━━━༻♆༺━━━━━━

📜 Read more by checking out my masterlist 📜

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manireads · 4 years ago

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Try Again

soulmate au! sunwoo x reader

wc: 3230

notes: trying again hopefully this gets in the tags this time.

check out my masterlist, pinned on my blog.

“I’m sorry but no. I have to go now.”

I froze where I stood. This is the moment that I had been waiting for all my life. The moment where I feel that euphoria that everyone described. The tingling fingers, the weightless, the jelly-like legs. The moment couldn’t be more romantic. Wintertime but not freezing. Soft snow falling catching on my clothes and in my hair. I was leaving the restaurant, where I celebrated my friend's birthday. He was walking in when our eyes met. I stood there feeling it all, my heart beating wildly, only to be shot down in an instance.

He walked away from me and into the building and I tried to stop the tears from falling down my face. I wanted to run but I needed to take one last look at him. I turned and watched him catch up with another woman, he kissed her on the cheek and she smiled brightly at him. I felt sick to my stomach. I watched as she talked to him and he responded casually before moving to the host’s desk. She turned back towards the entrance and for a second we made eye contact. She was beautiful. Long hair that flowed so effortlessly, a soft feminine face, cherry lips, and bright eyes. He wanted her, not me.

Embarrassed, I looked away, pretending to be distracted by my phone. I tapped away at the screen, hoping that she would look away from me and wouldn’t catch the sadness that washed over me. By the time I had looked up, both of them were gone, probably on their way to their table to enjoy their time together.

Everyone has a soulmate. Things have been like this since the dawn of time. When you’re young, they tell you that you could meet your soulmate at any moment. No one ever knew when it would happen but you would know when you did. The feeling is something you’ve never felt before and the only thing that you will be able to see, at that moment, is your soulmate. Most people go looking for their destined other half, others wait for destiny to bring them together naturally. No matter the path you take, you will meet your soulmate during this lifetime. Statistically, 87% percent of soulmates stay together and build a future together. But the other 13% are rejected and decide to live their own lives. I was now a part of that 13%. I was rejected.

I spent weeks isolated and crying in my apartment. Grieving for the future that I could have had. I had tried to hide it from my friends. Most of them had found their soulmates or were still waiting to be guided to them by destiny. But when I didn’t respond to them for a while, they came over and confronted me.

“You know we aren’t leaving until you tell us what’s wrong?”

“Kevin,” A shaky breath left my mouth. I didn’t want to cry in front of them. They didn’t need to be caught up in my sadness. “I don't know what to tell you. There’s nothing to tell you.”

“Love, you look like you’ve been crying for days,” Jacob said, taking a seat next to me on the couch, placing a mug of warm tea in my hand. I thanked him softly and he nodded before wrapping an arm around my shoulders. “Just tell us what happened. You’ve ghosted us since Eric’s birthday.” Kevin came closer to the two of us on the couch, trying to coax an answer out of me. But I stayed silent. I didn't want to admit it. I didn’t want to be seen as unwanted.

“Alright, if you don’t want to tell us right now, then that’s okay. But can we at least stay here and cheer you up a bit.” Kevin asked, tentatively. I nodded and I could see a smile grow on his face. “Good because there’s this movie I wanted to watch with you but you missed movie night last week.”

I could feel myself become more relaxed as the hours passed. It was nice to be around them again and reminded me of how much I missed them, especially hearing them banter with each other. The two of them were going back and forth, trying to figure out if a hotdog was a sandwich when the words fell from my mouth.

“I met him.” The two of them stopped and faced me.

“Met who?” Jacob asked.

“I met my soulmate.”

“Oh my god, when? Who are they? Why haven’t we met them yet?” I wanted to cringe hard at the excitement that was plastered on Kevin’s face. His smile was large and as he waited for me to delve into more detail. Jacob on the other side of me, looked just as expecting but more hesitant as he could almost sense something wasn’t right.

“His name is Kim Sunwoo. I met them outside of Eric’s party when I left early. You know, because I had to go to work the next day.” They both nodded, remembering that night, how they had both been trying to keep me out later but finally had let me go after holding me hostage for hours.

“Then what’s wrong, Y/N?’’ Jacob’s soft voice made emotions well up within me. I took a deep breath in forcing myself to get through this conversation without completely breaking down.

“He rejected me. He was there with someone else, another girl. When I was trying to find more information on him, I found the girl’s Instagram.” I remember coming across her account, she had tagged the restaurant in her pictures. And even though I had tried to stop myself after finding the bare minimum on my soulmate, I couldn’t stop myself from scrolling down her profile, hurting myself with picture after picture that she posted of him and with him. They looked so happy and that’s everything I wanted. “She’s his girlfriend. They’ve been together for years. High school sweethearts.”

I watched as the shock set into their faces. Kevin tried to apologize but I didn’t let him. He was excited that I could have found the person I was meant to be with for the rest of my life. It wasn’t his fault that it didn’t end up the way that we had all expected. They spent the rest of the night consoling me, telling me that it was his loss and reassuring me that everything happens for a reason. Kevin kept telling me that there were people who didn’t live with their soulmates and still even found love. Some people had soulmates who had died and they’d gone on to live happy fulfilling lives with people who didn’t have soulmates as well. That this moment wasn’t the end for me. I pretended to agree but even then, I felt like it wasn’t possible for me. That loneliness was my only option.

They say time heals everything and well, I don’t know who ‘they’ are but, they might be onto something. It took me a while to figure out my next steps. But slowly I started to pick myself up off of my living room floor and live and again, with Jacob and Kevin by my side the whole time. We decided that we’d keep my soulmate a secret from the rest of our friends until I was completely ready to tell them and in the meantime, I tried to reimagine what my life would be like without the person I was destined to be with. It was hard, some days I found myself scrolling through his social media aimlessly until Kevin had caught me one time and called me out on it.

“I get that he’s your soulmate but doing this isn’t going to help you better. Plus, lurking on his page like this is kinda creepy.”

I hated to admit it but he was right. From then on I stopped checking his page and from there it only got better. I started to hang out with my friends more and I even went on a couple of dates. I was starting to become a bolder version of myself. Unknowingly, in the past, I had let the idea of finding my soulmate hold me back for so long. It stopped me from taking risks and opportunities that I'd never even considered before so when my job offered me a chance to work in a different country, I took it without hesitation. I didn’t even know where I was going at first, but I was excited to find out that they were sending me to help establish a new branch of the company in Thailand. When it told my friends they were happy for me although a little sad that I would be leaving them for 6 months. They all helped me pack up my small apartment and sent me off with well-wishes at the airport, telling me to be safe and to make sure I called them when I finally touched down. That day, before I boarded the plane, I blocked him and his girlfriend, so that every time I went back to either page it would be blank. It felt symbolic of me starting over again.

My time in Thailand, came and went and it was winter time again when I returned. I was left to my own devices for a couple of hours, I planned to stay with Jacob, who was still at his job until I could get a place of my own. Having nowhere else to go, I decided to settle into a small dive bar that I used to go to all the time with my friends. The bartender greeted me warmly and indulged in all my stories about Thailand. From behind me, the front door swung open and a group of loudly talking people walked in. The bartender excused himself from me to go tend to the group who had made themselves comfortable on the other side of the bar.

Now by myself, I turned back to the drink that I had been nursing for a little while and threw my head back, drinking it all in one swift motion. I shook off the chill from the alcohol and that when my eyes met his.

From across the bar, amongst the group of people that just came in, stood Sunwoo, staring back at me. A warm sensation flutters over me, familiar to the first time we met but not quite the same. It isn’t uncommon for soulmates that haven’t seen each other in a long time to relive that initial rush but the feeling was stronger than what other people described. Maybe because it’s been so long. I knew he felt it too, as a small gasp left his lips. The rush of warmth was stopped as reality hit me again. As much as I enjoyed this feeling, I would never lead to anything between the two of us and sadness filled the hole that cozy feeling left. Immediately, I started to pack up my things, shoving my phone into my purse and shrugging my coat on as fast as I could. I pulled out a 20 dollar bill to cover my tab, a little too much but a nice tip for the bartender who kept me company all this time. I gathered my things as fast as possibly shoving my wallet and phone into my purse but before I could leave the bar, a soft hand was placed on my shoulder. I looked over to see no other than Sunwoo standing there with a nervous look on his face.

“Y/n, right?” He knew my name. Something I didn’t think he’d know seeing as how he brushed me off the first time we met. I nodded not trusting myself to speak. I watched as he took in a deep breath gathering himself. “Could I buy you a drink?”

“I - I um …” I wanted to say no but the words wouldn’t come out of my mouth. He kept his eyes on me hoping silently for me to say yes.

“Is everything alright over here?” From behind the bar, the bartender nodded to the two of us, obviously sensing that something wasn’t right.

“Uh, yeah. Everything is good. I um,” I trailed off taking a glance back towards Sunwoo, who had taken his hand off my shoulder and was looking at the ground quite solemnly. “He was just going to buy me a drink.” From the side of my eyes, I notice Sunwoo perk up and look at me bewildered that I had accepted his offer and, to be honest, I was surprised at myself too.

We sat down at a table on the opposite side of the room, he had already finished his drink, swallowing it down nearly in one gulp while mine stayed untouched. I couldn’t bear to look at him, scared that the sadness I had worked so hard to suppress would come bubbling out of me so I chose to stare out the window. This was beyond awkward. What do you say to the man that broke your heart? I glanced over to him and his eyes were staring into the cup between his hands. I was starting to get annoyed, he wanted me to stay here so why wasn’t he talking? He was the one who rejected me. I looked down at my phone. 5:34 pm. Jacob would be home by now.

“Look, I have to go. My friend is waiting for me and - ” I said getting up from my seat but before I could get far enough away his hand grasped on to mine. Shivers went up my hands and through my whole body. Another thing that happens with soulmates but it had just dawned on me at that moment was that it was the first time we touched skin to skin.

“I’m sorry. Please stay.” He looked up at me from his seat, his pleading desperate but quiet. Nearly washed out by the noise in the bar. I sat back down, finally looking him in his eyes.

“Fine but I do have someone waiting for me.” I couldn’t hide the annoyance in my voice. “What do you want from me?”

He was quiet on the other end of the table. I could see him pressing his thumbs together anxiously as he tried to gather himself as I watched in silence.

“Why did you block me?”

“Huh?”

“On Instagram. You blocked me. Why?”

Now I was struck silent. How did he know that I had blocked him?

“That was a long time ago, how did -”

“Six months ago.”

“How did you know I blocked you?” I asked warily. He breathed out like he had been holding his breath this whole time. He leaned back in his chair and ran his hand through his hair. It seemed like he was willing to talk so I copied him, getting more comfortable in my chair.

“After we met, I tried not to think much about you. I was happy, in a good relationship, and I didn't want to change that so quickly, especially because we had been together for so long. Everything was fine for a little bit but I did feel bad for how I treated you that night. I want you to know that I should have never done that and I’m sorry.” I nodded, understanding where he was coming from and he continued. “Everything was fine for a little while. But she told me about an account that was watching all of her Instagram stories but didn't follow her. When she showed it to me, I recognized you immediately. That when I started checking up on your profile.”

“I didn’t mean to stalk or anything I just wanted to know about my soulmate,” I said blushing and embarrassed at the fact that I had been caught this whole time. I took a swig of the drink in front of me hoping it would help cool me down.

“It’s okay. I did the same thing.”

“What now?”

“Well, I kept up to date with you on your account. So much to the point where my girlfriend started to notice. She kept asking about it but I just told her that it was nothing. But one night she kept pushing it and I finally told her that we were, you know, soulmates.” he said gesturing between the two of us. “We got into a big fight over it. She was mad that I didn’t tell her. Eventually, we talked it out and we broke up. She didn’t want to keep me from my soulmate. We’re still friends, however at a distance, and she tried to encourage me to talk to you. But I was too scared too. I was afraid you’d reject me as I rejected you.”

I watched him closely, noticing the weight he carried on his shoulders. Saying all of this must be a lot for him.

“But by the time I had the courage to do so, you had already blocked me. So when I saw you I thought ‘Fate must be giving me another chance’ so I took it.” It took a moment to process everything I was hearing but it had lit a tiny spark in me about all the possibilities for us but I needed him to ignite the flame and make it bigger. I needed confirmation to hear the words from his mouth.

“So what do you want from me, Sunwoo?” I asked, crossing my arms.

“A do-over. A chance to make this, us, work. I know I messed up and I regret it every day but I was scared. I never thought that I was ever going to meet my soulmate, so when I finally did, I was too scared to take the leap. But now I’m ready, I just hope I’m not too late and you haven’t given up on me yet. I want you, Y/n. ”

I turned my head away from him, wiping the small tears from my eyes after hearing the words that I always wanted to hear. My soulmate wanted me. I didn’t have to be lonely and bitter for the rest of my life or hide the fact that deep down I still yearned after the idea of being with the person that was perfectly made for me. It was like everything was falling into place. I took a deep breath, collecting myself before looking at him again.

“Fine, but if we do this we start from the very beginning. No hard feelings or anything. Just two people, soulmates, getting to know each other. Deal?”

“Deal.”

“Okay.”

“Okay.

We stayed there for the rest of the night, talking like I had imagined we would have a whole year ago. I nearly forgot about Jacob, who let me know that he was extremely worried about me after the fact. That night I could feel the sadness I had held on to for a whole year slowly dissipate and be replaced with the excitement for my future with him. I was ready to smile with him, laugh with him, be happy with him. I was ready to do everything together, from cheesy over the top dates to simply spending time with each other. I was ready to try again.

#the boyz imagines #the boyz reactions #the boyz scenarios #sunwoo x reader #kim sunwoo

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cowboisadness · 4 years ago

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Hang ‘Em High {Arthur Morgan x FemOC} Chapter 6

Pairing: Arthur Morgan x FemOC Summery: Belle Hawthorne is high society looking to escape her mean husband. A robbery by the Van Der Linde gang could be her chance. Can she escape his cluches and possibly discover what love should feel like?

Warnings: Animal death, mentions of domestic assault and abortion.

AN: This is a long one, hope you enjoy :)

. . . . . A few days had passed in the camp, many were busy either around camp or out on jobs to bring in money. Mary-Beth and Tilly explained to me what the jobs would entail, most of the time putting themselves in serious danger. Having enough to get by wasn't enough, especially for Dutch, occasionally giving smooth worded speeches to everyone like he was the Mayor of a grand town. He wanted more money, a lot of it for everyone to live a life of luxury. Arthur had recently returned from Strawberry to rescue a member of the gang i had not yet met, but had been warned about. Apparently the rescue mission didn't go as smoothly as planned. Arthur aimed to get him out of jail and out of Strawberry with minimum confrontation. The other guy had different plans. As I sat on my bedrole in my small tent stitching one of his shirts, the very man I'd been warned about approached.“I’m almost done with your shirt Micah.” i smiled politely at him, not wanting to get on his bad side from the get go but hoping to stay cautious while around him.He leaned against the tree beside my tent, lighting a cigarette as he did so.“So where did they pick you up from?” He looked towards me and it was then I realised everything he might say would be laced with venom. “Saint Denis. More of a rescue than a pick up.” I returned my attention to the task in hand. He blew out a cloud of smoke in my direction, the smell of cheap tobacco filling my nose. It was his way to invade my space without being too forward. I wouldn't let it bother me, what with the many social gatherings that involved being in rooms filled with smoke and smoking myself on those occasions. He let out a breath, a sigh, before pushing himself off the tree and walking away, but not before muttering words he still made sure I could hear. “Another deadweight to feed.” All I could do was chuckle to myself, cutting the thread in my hand with a knife. Deciding that he didn't deserve my effort to achieve perfection. By late evening I joined the others around the campfire, sitting next to Charles and Karen, the former handed me a freshly opened beer bottle. I was so used to expensive French wine, chilled in an ice bucket. I've gotten used to so much these last few weeks, living in the wild. The thought before would scare me half to death but I soon found it was different with a sense of family around you. Growing up i was taught the life of a gang of outlaws was a brutal one, the men being fueled and finding joy in murder, rape and theift, nothing more than monsters that have no care for anything other than themselves. I was never told that sometimes they could be people out of luck, born and raised without security and certainty, needing to do what they could to get by with the hope that they could one day, live without worrying when their next meal could be. These people around me all have terrible backstories and that's what brought them together, with the hopes of a better future as long as they fight for it together, even if that meant doing bad things.

I was the opposite, my life was paved out for me from the day I was born. To learn to be a loving and doting wife and mother. We never had to worry about our next meal, always knowing it would be fresh and grand. I was also lucky that my father wanted to teach me some of what he would teach my two older brothers, mainly hunting and how to care for our horses. I was so lucky, I was privileged. Javier brought out his guitar and started singing in his native tongue, some of us swaying to the tune. I heard of Charles and Arthur going out to hunt tomorrow, this was my chase to ask to join with them.I turned my attention to Charles, tapping him lightly on the arm for his attention to turn to me. “Everything okay Bella?” “I heard you and Arthur are going on a hunt tomorrow.” “We are. At first light. You wanting anything in particular?” “Is it possible that I join you both? I know how to use a bow, father taught me and it’s...it’s been a while...i’d love to hunt again.” I looked at him with pleading eyes as he took a swig from his bottle before turning to me with a soft smile. “Of course, always happy to have someone else along that knows what they are doing.” I couldn't play down my happiness, grinning from ear to ear and professing my thanks to Charles. I sipped the rest of my warm beer before saying my goodnights to the ones remaining around the fire and to Charles that I'll see him at first light. I tried my best to prevent a skip in my step as I made my way to my bedroll, excited for sleep and the day ahead. ….. The sun was barely making an appearance when I woke, stretching out my limbs before readying myself for the day, thankful to Sadie for offering me a pair of her pants she didn't want. Not only was I able to get out and do something I enjoyed, being amongst nature, but I was able to do something to help the camp other than repairing clothes and washing dishes. Making my way over to the coffee pot I saw Arthur was already there, sitting on a log near the now burnt out fire, coffee in hand. “Morning” He jumped slightly and turned to me, watching as I poured myself a hot cup. “You're up earlier than usual.” He turned his attention back to his cup as I sat beside him. “I’m coming hunting with you...and what do you mean earlier than usual? You been watching me Mr Morgan?” I took a sip, Arthur spluttered his, seemingly trying not to choke on the burning liquid. “What?...no...just...i'm usually first awake is all.” I smiled in my cup, hopefully hiding my slight giggle. A man of his size and how intimidating he can seem, he sure can get flustered easily, his cheeks turning a muted shade of pink. It was fun. We finished our coffee and made our way over to Charles and the horses, getting them saddled up. “You feel well enough to ride yourself Bella?” Charles asked, tightening the saddles girth so it fit snugly but comfortably around the horse. “I'm sure I'll be fine…” I looked over to Arthur, grinning “...I won't be falling off anytime soon.” “Take Johns horse, he won't be needing her today.” Arthur pointed over to the horse mentioned and I made my way over to sadde her. .….. The ride out into the heartlands towards Cumberland Forest was pleasant, the morning sun warming the earth and birds filling the air with their song. It was peaceful,the most peaceful I've felt in a long while. Still nothing of the attempted robbery or information about my disappearance had been read or heard of. Maybe Arthur was right, maybe Frank didn't care that i was gone, maybe he thought i was dead. I hope he did. We made it to the spot at Cumberland Forest and hitched the horses within the outskirts, hidden from view. Arthur let me use his bow, saying he was better with a rifle anyway. The three of us walked further into the forest, making sure to keep an eye and ear out for bears that roam the area. “Why don't we split up?” Charles suggested in a hushed toned as to not to disturb the surrounding wildlife. “Sure. Bella can come with me, might not need to use the rifle if she don't miss.” Arthur smirked. My expression one of mock disgust and punching him lightly in the arm. Granted I might be a bit rusty, it had been a couple of years since I hunted or even held a bow, but I'm sure once I get my mind focused it will be like second nature. Another thing I hope for. Charles moved further into the forest, me and Arthur moving closer to the Dakota river. The forest was tranquil and busy at the same time, the smell of pine and aspen filling my nose, the intense gaze of the sun being softened by the green blanket above, lighting everything in an orange hue. Any light that broke through the leaves lighting up in patches on the ground, able to see the suns daily path across the dirt from the sections of thick grass and various plants. Songbirds and sparrows weaving through the labyrinth of branches, hunting for bugs and seeds as they sang their love songs. For a moment it felt like we were the only people in existence as we walked in a comfortable silence. As we neared the river Arthur lifted his hand for attention then pointed ahead. Two whitetail deers drinking from the river. We crouched down, keeping out steps slow and light as we neared them. Once we stopped Aarthur looked to me, giving a nod for me to take my aim. I nocked the arrow, drawing it till the string resisted, keeping my chin low and feet steady, Arthur giving a soft whistle to get their attention. Two breaths and releasing on the exhale, the arrow flew to the mark, hitting the deer through its right eye, killing it instantly. I breathed in a huff of triumph as Arthur smiled at my glee. We made our way over, Arthur pulling on the animal readying to lift it. “Maybe i didn't need the rifle.” “Didn't trust me?” we smirked at each other, both pleased that we got a kill so soon. Arthur whistled for his horse as I gazed out at the river, hoping to see another distracted deer. He wrapped the animal in rope and secured it onto the back of his horse but we soon realised we were not paying proper attention to our surroundings as we should have. A guttural roar came from the thick forest behind us, too close for comfort. Before we had any time to react a mass of fur and teeth was bounding out of the treeline towards us, its black eyes trained on me. Fight or flight instincts kicked in, my legs pushing my back into a run, tripping over a river rock as I turned, planting straight into the river. I knew I couldn't get up quick enough, legs still pushing me backwards but failing to get traction, arms stretching out in front of my face like I could stop the beast with my own hands. Just as it was above me, staring down the cavern that was a throat, a crack of thunder rang out in my ears, echoing into the distance. The beast above me ceased and dropped on my legs, red splattered on my pants, shirt and no doubt my face.I looked at the stilled bear with wide eyes and then over to Arthur, rife in hand. My breathing steadying as I came down from the shock of what just happened and pushing the animal off me to stand. “Maybe you did need that rifle.” i giggled, looking towards Arthur, his eyes full of concern but a smile creeping on his face at my attempt to bring humor to the situation. I wasn't just covered in bear blood but soaked from landing in the river. I tried to shake off what I could and wring out the water from my shirt. Arthur walked over holding out a dry shirt for me to take. “I always carry fresh on my horse. Better than being soaked through completely.” I took the shirt and muttered a thanks, making my way out of the river and onto dry land, Arthur making a start on skinning the bear and whistling over Johns horse . The cold breeze hit my wet skin, making me shiver so I wasted no time in removing my drenched shirt, peaking over my shoulder to make sure he was distracted before also removing my camisole, now bare from the waist up. Pain shot up my side due to my hurried pace, letting out a quiet gasp, looking down at the still present bruise on my ribs, less angry, but persistent nonetheless. “There's trees right there y’ know.” My moment of pain must have caught his attention. Embarrassment flushed to my cheeks and I quickly pulled on his shirt and buttoned it up. It buried my small frame, stopping mid thigh, and it smelled like him, the faint hint of tobacco and gunpowder. “Scared.” “Why?” “Bears.” He huffed a laugh, lifting the bear hide and stowing it on johns horse. Both of us mounted up and started making our way to Charles' horse, silently deciding that was enough hunting for us today.Once there we built a campfire and I sat as close to it as comfortably possible, drying off my pants and sharing some fresh bear meat between us. We both were lost in thought, sitting in silence across from each other as we ate. I decided to break the silence with another request.

“Teach me to shoot properly?” it came out as both a demand and a question.He just looked at me while he chewed on the meat, the flames dancing over his face.“Father taught me how to handle a pistol, but i want to be sure i can protect myself...against bears...and people.” “You never went hunting after bein’ married?” I shook my head and sighed, looking down at the unfinished meat in my hands. “No. Frank wouldn't allow it. He would say the only things women are for are cooking, breeding and fucking.” “The more I learn about him, the more I wish I'd shot the bastard.” The anger in his tone was evident and with no hint of doubt. We sat in silence, the midday sun now high in the sky. He seemed to be lost in thought for a while before opening his mouth wanting to say something before changing his mind. I looked to him expectedly, wanting him to say what he wanted. His eyes locked with mine, knowing I was giving my permission to speak his thoughts.After a brief moment of silence, he finally broke it. “I...those...those scars ya have. They from him too?” So he did see. I hummed in response before giving him a proper answer. “My broken ribs weren’t from falling off your horse either. A lesson for flirting with the bastard on the balcony.” “Jesus” “He was so kind when we first met before getting married, always sending me gifts, flowers, jewelry. Written love letters and saying that he was building a stable at our future home, a homecoming gift for his sweetheart…” Arthur didn't speak as I paused, instead standing to retrieve something from his saddlebag before making his way around the fire to sit beside me, handing me a bottle of Bourbon. I smiled as I took it, opening it and taking a few gracious gulps, feeling the burning sensation trickle down my throat. “...He gradually changed after only being married for a few weeks. Dictating what i could wear and what hobbies i could indulge in, preventing me from seeing or talking to my childhood friends. Then the beatings would start getting worse... the assaults...eventually i couldn't sleep out of fear of what was to come when sharing a bed with him.” I took in a shaky breath, willing my tears not to breach. “Couldn't ya have returned to ya parents?” I shook my head before taking another swig and handing the bottle back to him. “I wanted to but...i was married off to him because my parents were struggling with the farmlands after three bad winters. Franks promised financial support in exchange for my hand. He even ceased all contact with them after only a month. I wrote letters to them but I never got one back. I have no idea what happened. Frank knew I wanted to leave so he promised to force a baby into me. That way, I'd have no choice but to stay with him.” I didn't know why i was telling Arthur all this, maybe because i knew it would help to get it off my chest, maybe because i felt like i could trust him. I didn't want pity, I realised, just a listening ear, someone to lend me their comfort for a little while.I hesitated before continuing. Arthur's eyes on me like I was a lost puppy, reaching out my hand for the bottle again he passed it to me without a word. I took another sip for courage, or so I couldn't feel the pain of reliving my horror. “I ended up falling pregnant. When I found out early on, I was more terrified in that moment than I had been in my life. He was elated of course, finally getting what he wanted. I knew he would be a horrible father, knew he wouldn't think twice about lifting his hand to a child. So I decided I couldn't let that happen. Had a doctor visit while he was on an overnight business meeting, some of his practices a known secret amongst many women.” Tears silently flowed as I stared into the growing flames of the fire. A hand placed gently on my knee for comfort and in understanding. “Did...did he find out?” “Told him I lost it. He shot my horse as punishment for being a failure of a woman.” “Bella...I’m sorry” It was barely above a whisper, anything louder and i might shatter like century old glass.He drew circles on my knee with his thumb as I wiped away the fallen tears. I made a silent vow never to cry over that man again, not to let him take up space in my mind. Absentmindedly I leaned into Arthurs touch, his shoulder meeting my temple, breathing in my first steady breath, Arthur wrapping his arm around me.

#hang em high #hang em high fic #arthur morgan #arthur morgan x oc #arthur morgan fic #rdr2 #red dead redemtion 2 #rdr2 fic #fanfiction

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genuflectx · 4 years ago

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Just wanna rant about my job a bit, will probably delete this later. But I think I may quit my job within the next month or so u_u’

Originally when I joined this job last year it was under originations- I helped people apply and get approved for loans, or offered general tech support when they needed help with the process online. I felt like I was helping these nice old people, they were rarely mean (save for the occasional grouchy old man after he gets rejected), and the work load was decent. Not too heavy, not too boring.

Then the pandemic hit. My entire team, which had been hired only a few months before, were rushed in for “accelerated training” on the credit card support department. I believe it was just like 4 weeks of training for a tooootally different workflow. We worked in the servicing department for what, maybe a month? Then they furloughed a ton of people and managers and moved us AGAIN, this time to collections. So calling to collect debts on our credit card product. When I joined this company it was under the understanding I did NOT want to do collections because it makes me sad and feel shitty. But they promised us we would be transferred back to originations after a bit, so whatever.

Slowly things have gone downhill since. Just tiny things adding up. They implemented a internet speed minimum requirement, which is understandable working from home, but we lost another good chunk of people who got fired for that, some who I’d made friends with. Hell, I got THREATENED with firing due to this, forcing us to run an Ethernet cable through 2 stories of our house. And I was PISSED because I was the only one on the team making a 100% average on QA scores. Then a few people quit, leaving only 3 people from my original originations team. They hired a new manager to oversee work force management (WFM) and quality assurance (QA) around this point and I’m CONVINCED it got worse because of her changes...

They changed our outbound dialing system to a cheaper one, promising all these improvements, and who woulda guessed... the quality of work life barely improved with this piece of crap tech but hey, it cut costs. Next they dismantled the debt management company department (DMC) and trained us in it so we’re technically trained for and work in two departments. On top of the promise that in the far future that they will cross-train us with the loan department too, a totally different product. We also have to do the emails for our department as well.

Then things got bad. Non stop calls for a months. Likely related to the unfortunate weather disasters in our outsourced locations. The outbound dialer, which is an autodialer that WFM loads up with late people to auto-call, starting filling up with impossible amounts of people to call for our agent count. We started going from 5000 to call every few hours to 10,000. And it doesn’t matter if we don’t clear the queue, they will load more in at certain times of the day. So we’d get 10,000 at 1pm, we’d get it down to 3,000 by 5pm, and they’d just load it back up to 10,000 again.

Then they added on the mandatory overtime. Everyone in our department either has to do a half shift extra on either saturday or sunday- with mine being on saturday. Another person quit (down to 2 from my original team). We’re understaffed as hell and they tell us that they’re FINALLY training a new class. And know what? They ONLY enacted the OT and got a new class because their service levels were down. Service levels are a mandatory legal level of how many agents per how many customers we have, they get in legal trouble when it drops too far for too long. They didn’t give a shit about our stress until their damn legal agreement dropped and then forced the OT on us. Wow. We feel so appreciated.

And THEN the OT was supposed to go until Feb 14th- today. THEY EXTENDED IT ANOTHER WEEK.

And and and a few days after they told us it was extended these dudes LAY OFF 3 managers, including our team’s manager, who I REALLY liked, and stuck us into the team of a manager who is notorious for giving out incorrect policy info! Why! >:(

Some other small things they’ve done that have added up slowly: They sent me a “nice” alluminum mug for my high QA score. Stuck it in the washer once and the pretty gold lettering on the front melted. It also leaks. They do these “thank you” videos some time where the upper management (never faces you recognize save for 2 or 3). BUT they made us watch this 10 minute long “thank you” Christmas video BETWEEN CALLS instead of scheduling time for us to do it like usual. Due to the short staffing, they changed how our weekly meetings with our manager/team go. Instead of having the whole team go into a meeting with her twice per week, they made her split this into 3 smaller meetings once per week, so that 2 or 3 team members meet with her at a time (more people on the floor to take calls). It spread her thin- before they laid her off of course. After they enacted the OT a week or so into it one of the upper management people sent us all an email telling us we basically weren’t doing good enough because our collections numbers weren’t high enough.. KNOWING we’re under staffed, she still emailed that. Come on.

So ya know what? My fiance and friends have encouraged me to just move on. This company isn’t what it was when I started a year ago, and idk if it’s legit just due to covid or if this WFM/QA overseer that they hired near the end of 2020 is fully to blame. I hate hearing customers tell me day in day out about their family dying, about being homeless/evicted. I hate old ladies screaming at me because they can’t comprehend that WE ARE IN A PANDEMIC and the MAIL WILL BE LATE, so their damn paper checks need to be mailed out at least 2-3 weeks in advanced- OR THEY COULD JUST CALL AND PAY LIKE NORMAL PEOPLE. Tired of people insulting me and calling me names because THEY’RE late and THEY missed a payment and they can’t accept responsibility- because they think screaming at someone making a few bucks over min wage will do anyone any good or make their shitty credit score any better.

All this mandatory OT and my nice manager being fired has put a lot of stress on me, if the other crap wasn’t enough. We’re really financially stable in this household even if I did quit, even if I’d feel guilty af. And it could be months before I found another job as safe and well-paying as this one, but at least my mental health would recover.

So I have about a day of sick time and 80 hours of PTO. My plan is to hopefully schedule out all 80 hours, or at least 85% of my PTO if I can, then when I come back to put in a 1 week notice. By then the new agents will be in full swing. I can get the money from the PTO I earned at this shit collections job and then try and move on to bigger and better things. And in the mean time while looking, I can work on art/writing and I can also possibly get a new car with all the money we’ve saved up. My mama and granny might end up disapproving and judge me but 2020 was such a shit year and I’m tired of this. I feel like this job is taking advantage of us and legit just doesn’t give a crap about their employees.

Okay! Well that’s outta my system! Bleck

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whispersafterdusk · 4 years ago

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Lost in Time - ch 6

"One more floor to go until Stewart, and two more skeletons to find..." Selene muttered as the elevator doors slid open. She'd seen them do this so many times she was starting to see it in her dreams, and hear that little grating noise that trailed off into a metallic squeak right as they withdrew completely into the sides of the car. She was sweaty, dirty, and her hands were cramping, but finally (after nearly two weeks!) they were approaching the All Source AI of this place.

Finally letting Petra and Merlin in had been the right choice; Eli and Selene only had to show them one time how to assemble the brackets and where to attach those wires to, and now they were working as a proper team to methodically clear each floor. It was also a nice change to have two extra pairs of hands helping carry everything (for which Selene was more grateful for Eli's sake than for her own). ((Continued below cut))

They'd tried getting to the relay box that Pauline had said had failed hundreds of years ago; Eli thought she knew approximately where it ought to be within the wall - and it made sense, being as that section of the wall seemed thicker and sturdier for several panels in each direction while also reinforced in the floor and ceiling - but none of their tools even came close to fitting the bolts that held the panels in place. Selene had used a bit of tape and shavings off a pencil to take a rough "cast" of the size and shape of the bolt's head and would have to try casting it and using it to make a mold to make a tool when she got back to her shop as not even the Research Center had anything that would come close to working either.

"Do you think 16 will be enough?" she heard Petra ask behind her.

Selene trudged out of the elevator; Petra was right on her heels wheeling along the dolly with crates full of yellow power stones all nestled into brackets and ready to go, and by 16 Petra meant 16 total brackets with 6 stones apiece in them (along with a crate of the usual blue ones they'd been using to get doors open). Selene had never seen that many of the yellow ones in one place before; it was probably every spare yellow power stone in Portia, and she couldn't imagine where Merlin and Petra had had those squirreled away or how they got that many. When they'd hooked Wendy up to a new power source they'd used a pair of massive engines but that wasn't an option down here...

Eli answered Petra before Selene could. "Maybe. I'm not sure. It likely won't give him full access to the entire facility but might be enough to get information on what happened down here. And maybe directions to a supply closet or maintenance hall that might still have something in it."

That was just one of the mysteries of this place; at some point during the evacuation it seemed that spare supplies had been taken out along with the people. They had no idea why as Eli couldn't think of a reason for the facility to have been totally abandoned in a "rush" but not so rushed that they had time to take things with them...hopefully Stewart could clear things up for them.

Speaking of Eli... Selene could tell the woman was tired but pushing herself to keep going. Would it be rude to suggest she sit and let the three of them take over this floor? It felt rude, but she also didn't want to see the woman hurt herself by over-exerting down here.

"-you take the nearest ones, Eli," she said instead. "We can start at the other end of this hallway."

Eli's response was a shrug; Petra moved the crate with the yellow stones in it off the stack and from the one under it pulled out six brackets with blue stones and left them stacked neatly for Eli before wheeling the rest of them along in Selene and Merlin's wake.

This hallway was at least devoid of the disintegrating carpet; the floor was covered with some sort of tiling that was a bit slick with dust and grime but looked to have once been white. The walls were an eggshell color along with decorative dark wooden paneling hanging at regular intervals that had flower pots (full of long-dead floral plants) mounted in their center, and the light fixtures were down-turned glass bowls instead of the previous floor's upturned scallop shapes.

Behind them she heard the distant creak and pop of a panel coming loose and knew Eli was already starting but they still hadn't found the end of this hallway, and were easily a hundred feet or more from the elevator now.

She reached up to adjust her head lamp's beam to a wider one (they'd given up on trying to keep the lights powered as it was now taking too many brackets to get them bright enough to be worth it). "At least it's a nice change of scenery?"

"It does make one wonder why this area is different," Merlin replied. "All the other halls were uniform, and now this one is far fancier."

"Perhaps it's related to the All Source being down here. This may be a sort of executive wing - where the higher ranking officials of this place had their offices," Petra offered.

"That would be logical, I suppose."

"How long does this hallway go- oh. Here it is," Selene said, coming to a slippery stop on the grimy tile as the hallway finally ended in an abrupt left turn that led into an area that was only eight feet deep; a single armchair was back here, and a very small side table, both of which were shoved against the wall to her left. On the very back wall of this little area was a very faded wall hanging with pictures of robots, humans in both regular clothing and some in long white coats like the one Dr. Xu wore, and with what once had been a very beautiful starscape in the "sky" above their heads. Along with the pretty starry sky there was decorative writing of some kind around the humans and robots, arranged in small snippets and in a script she didn't recognize.

Touching it would probably be a bad idea but boy did she want to touch it right now; what kind of fabric was it made of? It was probably dust and dry rot that had caused it to fade as it didn't look like insects had gotten at it. "Wonder what it says..." was what Selene said instead of touching it. "I don't think I've seen that kind of writing before."

"Nor have I..." Merlin mused. The older woman reached up to adjust her own headlamp to a much finer beam and leaned in until she was only a few inches away from the tapestry, eying its details. "It's well preserved, all things considered."

Selene looked up to the top of the tapestry; she thought she could just barely see a pole attached to the top of the hanging but it was mostly covered by a decorative...well, cover. It was clearly meant to hide the pole that held the tapestry up and was painted (she could see flecks of the paint falling away) to resemble the wooden paneling down here.

"Maybe we can figure out a way to get it safely down and take it out of here," Petra said quietly. She was studying the tapestry too though she seemed specifically interested in the starscape part. "I don't recognize any of these constellations."

"Artistic interpretation," came Eli's voice from directly behind them; they all jumped and turned to see the woman standing at the corner smiling at them. "I recognize that image - it's a painting by Lorenzo Raphael."

Selene looked between her and the hanging. "Is it painted on the fabric, or printed?"

"Printed. A lot of paintings got reproduced as screen printings you could buy for a fraction of the cost of the actual painting. Most artists made more money off doing that than they did actually selling their works as originals."

"What does it say?" Petra asked. "What language is it?"

Eli moved forward to stand with them. "It's Dubeian. It says "mankind once looked to the birds in the sky, and asked how. Then they learned, and asked why. Then they looked to the heavens and asked, why not." It's an incredibly pretentious way of saying mankind a long time ago questioned how and why birds fly, then we figured it out and kept going higher. Lorenzo was known for that - using a hundred words when five would've gotten the point across."

"...THAT'S Dubeian?" Selene eyed the script again; it was fancy - all loops and curves - and didn't look anything like the alphabet she knew. "How many languages were there back then?"

"Millions, probably. It's partly why Base Common - which is what we're all speaking - came into existence. We all needed a sort of centralized language so we could talk and trade with one another, and make sure all our financial, medical, or technological doodads could communicate with each other easily." The woman paused, then continued on a language Selene hadn't heard before; it was lyrical and made of mostly soft sounds such that the few hard endings and a couple of deep throat clicks seemed highly out of place. "-and usually everyone knew their native language and Base Common, bare minimum."

"How fascinating..." Merlin said, rubbing her chin as she looked the wall hanging over again. "I wonder. How many languages do you know or recognize from your time period?"

"I'm fluent in a couple and can fumble my way through a couple more beyond that."

Merlin flipped off her head lamp before turning to face Eli again. "We do have a few data discs with information on it in languages we'd never seen before. Perhaps you could translate."

"Possibly, but I can promise you there's likely nothing too important if it's not in Base Common. Might be someone's personal work or journal but don't expect to find anything ground breaking."

That had Petra giggling. "Well. Even if it's someone's favorite recipes we'd like to know what it says."

Together they turned and left the little tapestry corner; Eli had gotten the four doors on her side of the hall all wired up. Along with the change in decorations this hallway also had fewer doors that were further apart from one another than all the other floors. It made Selene think that maybe these led to hallways of their own, or else these were much, much larger rooms than all the others. They quickly got the other powered brackets into place and retreated to the end of the hallway near the elevator.

"Here goes nothing..." Selene said quietly, looking back at the others before reaching down to flip the switch on the first bracket.

There was the familiar whirring noise and a thunk before the door slid open. Clicking on her flashlight again Selene aimed it into the doorway only for the light beam to seemingly be swallowed by the dark - it hardly traveled into the room at all. She walked forward through the door and into, as she'd suspected, an enormous room compared to all the rest they'd examined so far.

"Wow..." Stepping in further Selene swept her flashlight from side to side; this room was easily fifty feet wide and maybe twice as long. Standing in clusters throughough the room was...equipment, of some kind. Interspersed between the equipment thingies were high, flat topped tables that were covered in a leather-looking fabric that was heavily cracked from age. "What was this place, I wonder..."

"Ah - I know what this is. Or at least what this room in particular is."

Selene turned around to see Eli's silhouette moving through the door. "What is it?"

"Rehab," was the woman's answer. "Physical therapy stuff."

Eli switched off the headlamp she wore and held out a hand for Selene's flashlight; Selene handed it over and followed at her elbow as she moved over toward the nearest grouping of things -- there were two parallel railings bolted to the floor, a little over a shoulder's width apart, and near it was a stationary set of 4 stairs with railings at the same angle as the stair's incline.

The carpet in here was relatively intact but felt pathetically thin under her feet. Eying the carpet under the stationary stairs drew her attention to her immediate right where there was a wide strip of...it looked like rubbery carpet, in a dark gray, that was marked with faded lines and numbers that ran around the entire room at the border, smoothing out into curves at the corners without changing in width at any point. It reminded her of the Land Run but instead of the distance markers being up on poles here it was instead printed on the floor itself.

"Rehab, physical therapy..." Merlin repeated. "Being as this is a medical facility my assumption is this equipment was used to strengthen oneself?"

Eli nodded, moving the beam of light from set to set. "Yep. Most of this is equipment you'd use to work on your balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, to name a few. Some is just regular exercise equipment that doubles for therapy work. Pretty basic stuff in here. I guess that's why this area down here is different - this is a patient area, and those were always made up nicely to help relax people as they worked on their health. Injury, sickness, or age could get you sent to a physical therapy session or two."

Selene followed the beam with her gaze as Eli moved it around; there were various sizes of wooden blocks, more stairs, more tables, lots of what looked like deflated rubber balls, cords and jump ropes, things that looked like weird bicycles... "Why would they put a patient area down in the lowest levels?"

With a shrug Eli handed the flashlight back. "Couldn't tell you. There were a lot of dormitory rooms above us so I bet this place doubled as a long stay rehabilitation center -- not every room above was meant for an employee's use, I guess."

"Was it common for people to live where they worked?" Petra asked.

"Depends on the line of work but yeah, sometimes. Also with how...um. With how huge Dubei was, for a lot of people and employers it was just more efficient to house everyone onsite. Could take you an entire day to get from one end of Dubei to the other."

Merlin shook her head as she left the room. "I can't picture a city so large."

Selene let everyone else leave ahead of her then followed along as they popped the other doors. These rooms had more of the same therapy equipment (but were much smaller than the room they'd just left - more personal, it felt like) and she decided to roam a bit further into the last one; the equipment was mostly non-powered - as in, it wasn't meant to be powered at all though there were a few things she found plugs and cords on, and there were regular plug outlets along the walls, at certain places on the floor, and even a few spots on the ceiling. Experimentally she tried to turn the wheel of a bike and found it stuck; even though it didn't seem like there was moisture down here the metal had still fused together over time. If it couldn't be repaired or restored she might be able to salvage all those gears, some chains, and the metal would be still somewhat good to melt down as scrap...maybe she could even re-purpose the scrap into rebuilding--

"Let's move on," came Merlin's shout from outside the room; it echoed oddly amongst the equipment and Selene hurried out to join the others in the elevator.

"Being as so many other substantial things appear to have been removed from this place it seems a bit odd that this therapy equipment would be left behind."

Eli shrugged. "It's easy to make, easy to replace. Dirt cheap to buy compared to everything that SHOULD have been left behind in an emergency in the supply closets but wasn't. A lightbulb is more valuable in the long run than an exercise bike."

That made sense. Sort of. The elevator smoothly carried them down to the next floor - it was almost All Source time.

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

The more pieces they found on their own the less this place made sense.

Before heading down to these last few floors they'd talked to Pauline again; she'd said this was a medical research facility - specifically, a bio-technical research facility. Making machine-like biological devices in the pursuit of treating health issues. A research facility meant to build "machines" out of organic components wouldn't have much need for physical therapy equipment, and especially not an entire floor's worth of it...while a rehab patient might benefit from bio-technical intervention in certain diseases she knew that there weren't any official medical programs within Dubei that would have legally allowed people to be lab rats, and there was no way a facility could operate for long while illegally experimenting on people.

Well, whatever. The All Source AI would be able to answer all their questions.

Which, that SHOULD be somewhere on this floor.

The elevator had spat them out into another small sitting area; what had once been overstuffed, luxurious armchairs were now crumbling and rotted, along with the matching couches and plush pillows that sat on them - likely this was a waiting room for patients. Low coffee tables and small but taller tables stood beside or between groups of the furniture, making nice and neat little areas that felt contained despite being in one open space; along the walls were dusty old screens Eli assumed had once been capable of television and movie broadcasts, and she wasn't able to entirely stop a small, wistful smile from crossing her face -- she doubted this world would have movies, or musicals, or television. Or at least not in the format she was used to.

Beyond the waiting area was a hallway that curved in either direction; she took a right turn and began to plod along, noting as the paneling on her left-hand side gave way to frosted glass that was caked in grime and made all the more impossible to see through. The wood paneling on the wall to her right remained, and old-fashioned wooden doors were spaced at roughly twenty foot intervals.

The hallway continued to curve and an idea of the floor layout was forming in her mind. "All right - I think this just goes in a circle," she said finally. "In the middle here should be the All Source. No idea what these rooms on the outer part of this circle are for but I'm betting we're going to have a hell of a time getting in to the All Source since the entry door SHOULD be one of those that's access-locked. Pauline might have given me access to what she could control but that won't apply here, especially since I don't have any sort of access key and we lack power to the central servers."

"Uh..." Selene started; when Eli turned to look back at her the woman had a sheepish look to her.

"What?"

"Well, when we were trying to get inside the room where you were, Arlo just...kinda...sorta, broke the glass door, if you remember."

Eli snorted - yeah, she remembered that now. "We won't be able to do that here. If it's protecting an All Source AI I bet this glass could take a bullet hosing and not shatter. We'll have to figure out where in the floor the emergency release is."

"The FLOOR?" Selene repeated, huffing out a sigh. "I haven't seen any places where it looked like we could get under the floor."

"Because we don't get into the floor through the floor. We'll get in there through a maintenance shaft." She paused and looked at the identical fake wooden doors (as in, the wood was fake, not that the door was) and sighed herself. "Might take awhile, but I bet behind one of these doors are stairs down to an access shaft. They tended to keep those compact and close to where you needed to get inside as buildings got larger."

"You know..." Petra said, walking up to one of the doors and rubbing a hand against it. "It occurs to me that nothing we've seen so far had any sort of number or plaque identifying it. How did anyone know what's what? Sheer memorization?"

"Sort of?" Eli answered. "I mean...go somewhere enough times and you'll remember where it is. But we all had uh... You have clocks, right?" Petra, Merlin, and Selene all nodded at her in unison. "Are they hi-def or analog?"

"...huh?" was Selene's response.

"Um... Do they tick tock, or are they a display?"

"Oh. Tick tock."

"Ok. So we had these things called Hi-Defs. Their actual names were High Definition Personal Display Units - they were about this big-" Eli held her hand out with her thumb and forefinger about an inch and a half apart, "-square for the basic models. The more expensive ones were about this big-" this time she held out both hands about five inches apart with her fingers and thumb forming a narrow rectangle. "You wore them on your wrist or arm and they were basically a tiny AI you carried around with you. It would project a larger image into the air that you could interact with with a finger or you could use voice commands with it. All addresses were automatically updated to your Hi-Def once you were within a set area for it -- for example if you were to walk inside this building wearing one all room numbers and directions would be automatically ready for you to pull up any time, and you could always punch in any address at any time and be guided there by your Hi-Def."

"Wow... But, what happened if you didn't have a Hi-Def?" Selene asked.

Eli shook her head. "Not possible, unless you broke yours and just never replaced it, which would have been a very stupid idea. EVERYONE was given a basic model Hi-Def once they hit ten years old - government paid for them and made them readily available for everyone who needed one, though you might have to pay a small fee to replace yours depending on how it broke. It would have been pretty impossible to get anywhere in or beyond Dubei without one."

"Travel in the Old World sounds like it was...complicated."

Chuckling she turned to eye the nearest door. "Not to someone who lived there. ...er, then."

Petra had rubbed away some of the dust on the door earlier, revealing that the varnish on the door was cloudy but you could still make out the pretty, dark grain of the actual wood beneath it. Eli moved toward it and brushed her hands all the way around the frame of the door; there weren't any scuff marks, knicks, or dings in the frame so she was fairly convinced this wasn't the maintenance access door (careless people with toolboxes were a common "danger" to any and all door frames - even the plasti-crete or stainless steel ones). They'd already passed four doors and there were who knew how many more ahead of them if they kept going forward along the hall.

"Well..." she said, looking back at the others. "Who's feeling lucky?"

After a few hours work, moving counter clockwise around the circle from the elevator, they all could call themselves lucky; finally, in these rooms, they were starting to find stashed components -- lightbulbs, circuit boards, keyboards and screens, a few Hi-Def replacement pieces, cords and discs and...just, anything Eli could think of that would've gone into a computer or any other technical equipment was in here. And it was clear these rooms WEREN'T intended to be storage rooms as they were as nicely appointed as the previous sitting area had been.

Despite them being stacked high with boxes that she'd previously been hoping to find Eli found herself wishing the armchairs weren't falling apart and were empty all the same; her back and hands were aching and her knees were starting to feel a little unreliable. A quick cat nap in a nice plush armchair was sounding pretty good...

'We're almost done,' she kept telling herself. If they could get into the maintenance access, get the All Source AI powered on, and check that it wasn't damaged due to time or the various power failures, they could call it a day. It's not like the AI would be going anywhere.

She, Merlin, and Petra were skimming over the contents of this latest impromptu storage room -- these boxes were full of old medical texts printed on plasti-paper, along with technical manuals for Surgi-Tech Suite machines (though where the machines were was anyone's guess). Some of the texts would no doubt be useful to Dr. Xu but without the Surgi-Tech machines the manuals would be pretty useless. Had ANY surgical machines or AIs-

Don't think about it.

-survived this long? She made a mental note to ask Dr. Xu when she got back to the clinic again.

Selene had moved ahead and was methodically scrubbing dirt and grime off the doors further down the hallway; if she found any scuffed up doors she was supposed to come running but so far they'd not heard anything from her. There were a few boxes of just texts that they could take back up with them today if they left the crates of power stones behind...that would probably be a better use of their physical efforts -- with the entry elevator being watched around the clock by the Civil Corps it was highly unlikely anyone could get down here and steal the stones (or anything else for that matter).

"Hey, guys?" came Selene's shout from the hall.

Eli poked her head out of the room; Selene was far enough along the hall that she couldn't be seen beyond the hall's curve. "Yeah?"

"I found an open door -- the center part, I mean. It's open."

...open? That wasn't right. There's no reason the security door leading to the All Source AI should've been open already.

With Merlin and Petra right behind her Eli headed down the hall; she estimated they were probably on the far side of the halfway point (meaning, to get back here from the elevator they should turn to the left instead of the right). Finally they met up with Selene who, as she'd claimed, was standing in front of a glass door that was slightly ajar; it was frosted like the walls to either side, and its frame was thin strips of stainless steel so it would have at least stood out from the glass wall even if it hadn't been open.

"WHY is this open..." Eli muttered. At least the security systems would also be offline so she had no fear when she reached out to push the door open further.

Hinges that hadn't seen a lubricant in centuries shrieked in protest as the door opened; beyond it was a smell of spilled oil and dust. They all flipped on head lamps, and even the extra flashlights they'd carried down with them and in the beams of light they began to piece together the layout and contents of the room.

It was a circular room with a tall ceiling and curved rows of computer consoles atop desks arranged in neat, concentric half circles around the massive All Source AI docking--

"Well, shit," escaped her before she could stop herself, as their beams of light all fell on a gigantic pillar in the middle of the room that could only be the central All Source AI docking station -- emphasis on "docking," as this model of AI was meant to be mobile. "We've hit a snag."

"What?" Petra asked, looking as concerned as she sounded. "What's wrong?"

Eli led them up an aisle between the rows of desks. "This is a mobile All Source model."

She stopped when they were at the base of the massive AI; it was basically a square pillar in the center of the room with rectangular screens that reached from the ceiling down to six feet above the floor. In front of them was an indented rectangular spot, four feet wide by six feet tall, with an obvious thin gap running through the middle from top to bottom; Eli knew that these were a set of double doors that would open to allow the AI's accessory body to step out of its docking port, allowing it to freely move about the facility as needed.

"Wendy could move too, initially," Merlin said into the pause that followed. "It doesn't seem out of the ordinary that other All Sources could move about as well."

"From what you've told me Wendy sounds like a warehouse and distribution All Source system," Eli responded. "Wide stance, hands that could grab and lift -- built for strength and purpose in hauling things. A mobile medical All Source is going to be vastly different...for one, it's not going to be much larger than a typical human, and it'll look more humanoid than most because you don't want to upset your patients with something that looks too mechanical."

"Why would a medical All Source AI need to move?" Selene asked.

Eli shrugged. "AIs are meant to serve in any capacity we need them. An All Source AI could labor or issue orders as needed, and a mobile model could do so from any location as required. It's just...how things worked." She walked slowly around the pillar; there was just the one door into the docking station, as she suspected. "The problem is I don't know anything about how to attach power to a mobile All Source. Their systems are going to be different and delicate enough that I'd rather not risk causing a short somewhere -- especially now that there isn't a way to manufacture what we'd need to fix it if I did."

Selene stared at the doors to the docking station. "Can't we attach it somewhere in the line like we've been doing with the doors?"

"The mobile body and the stationary body are going to have separate power lines coming in. Even if we figured out how to hook in without breaking anything we're not going to have the power needed to power both."

"...do we NEED both?" Petra asked, sounding puzzled. "We don't need it mobile, we just need it activated."

Eli stepped back from the AI's pillar to stand with the others, shaking her head. "This AI is technically one unit but spread across two pieces. If we want to power him at all it'll have to be both and we don't have enough power stones to sufficiently power both halves. We might be able to sort of wake him up but it'd be equivalent to asking a human who's blind, deaf, and missing their legs to run a marathon."

Merlin hummed to herself. "I see. We already have every power stone in the Research Center on hand...if that's not enough I'm not sure we could gather together more in any reasonable amount of time."

"So...what do we do then?" Selene asked. "We might not EVER get enough power stones together if what we have isn't already enough. We can't make more of them - all that we have are things we had to find in other ruins."

"Well," Eli sighed, looking to the builder. "That's where you come in. I suggest we turn our attention to getting those tools made to get the relay box fixed, and get that reactor back online. It might not be running at full power but that'll be way more than we could scrounge together with stones. Get the reactor online, and we get this entire facility back online."

Selene wrinkled her nose. "Oooh...well. Before we do all THAT I'll need to finish up the locking mechanism for the access elevator then."

"Gale really doesn't want anyone down here until he says so, huh?" Eli chuckled.

The builder nodded emphatically. "I've been keeping him up to date on everything we've been doing and he wants this place to remain intact for study. It's the most intact ruins ever found in this region...there's a lot we can learn here. Dr. Xu will be doing back flips over those medical texts, for sure."

"Let's get back to the surface, then," Petra said after a pause. "Selene, I'm going to reference everything we have and see if there's any mention of these tools."

"And I shall come help personally with the casting of the molds," Merlin interrupted. "I'm sure the four of us can create something suitable in no time."

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

"Ah, there you are."

Selene and Eli both paused and turned at the shout; behind them Gale was hurrying up to them, huffing a bit as he came up the ramp.

"I was hoping to catch you before you got to the clinic," he wheezed when he was up to them. "Granted, I was hoping to catch you before you left Django's too but I was clearly a bit late for that part," he chuckled a moment later. "Eli - I've received word back from the council. They'll be sending in some assistance for the ruins, as well as a few scholars who would love to speak to you. And, I also have everything in place for you to take residence in an apartment of your own."

"An apartment?" Selene broke in before Eli could respond. "You're going to put her in Happy Apartments?"

Gale nodded. "An apartment was readied for her-"

"No no no," Selene went on, interrupting again and shaking a finger in the air. "Those apartments are nice but they're the size of a cracker box, AND that's where Lee and Nora live too. She can stay with me."

Both Gale and Eli blinked at her; it might've come out of her like a spur of the moment idea but it was actually something that had come to mind a couple weeks ago. "I mean it," Selene went on. "I've got extra bedrooms at my shop AND I can promise I'm not going to cause a stink that she's there." She turned to Eli. "I won't even charge rent! I've got more space than I know what to do with - we'll have to furnish a room but aside from that--"

"Now wait a second," Eli broke in. "I intend to work and pay my own way. I don't want to rely on charity for the rest of my life."

"OK, fine," Selene huffed. "We'll figure out a rent arrangement. But seriously," she turned her attention to Gale. "We already know Lee is going to throw a fit when he finds out about Eli. Let's not put them in direct conflict by making them neighbors, yeah?"

Gale sighed. "I did think of that and the apartment that's ready for her is as far from Lee's doorstep as possible. And if there's a problem it will be taken care of."

Selene turned her attention from Gale to Eli. "Those rooms are tiny - everything in one room with only the bathroom divided off. One bedroom at my place is the size of an entire apartment unit there. Let me at least show you the place before you pick where you want to stay?"

Before Eli could reply Selene had her by the wrist and was guiding her back down the ramp and across the plaza, with Gale following along in their wake.

Selene's shop was something of a point of pride for her; it was a gigantic two-story home, kept clean and in good shape every season, and she'd added on a stable and always had a nice garden along the front fence during warmer weather. She stole a look at Eli as they came up to the gate and was pleased to see the appraising look on the woman's face that turned to surprise when she saw the automated mechanical assembly platform that, admittedly, took up the lion's share of the property.

"This place was left to me by my dad," she said. "I'm pretty sure he meant to move the entire family out here eventually but he...uh, didn't. That's another story I won't bore you with but basically, I have this huge house to myself and it was clearly meant for one than one person. There's an extra bedroom on the ground floor and one on the second floor, and there's two bathrooms, a big living room, and a nice kitchen. AND-" she went on, pointing to the assembly station with its robotic arm and to the warehouse nestled in behind it, "I've got manufacturing set up that might be something you're familiar with. It'd be perfect to have you here anyway since we're going to be working on getting those tools made up -- no need to walk all the way out here if you're already living out here."

"Uh..." Eli muttered, looking around at the garden and the assembly station, and then turning her attention to Gale.

Gale scratched at the back of his head. "Well... The Happy Apartments arrangement was the best that could be done on short notice. There aren't many open residences in Portia that're in good enough shape that I felt it would be appropriate to offer..." He paused, then looked to Eli. "You're of course welcome to the apartment, or if you think Selene's offer is more appropriate for your needs you're welcome to make that arrangement as well."

"I..." Eli said, looking between the two of them. "...I feel a bit awkward, like I'm pitting your offers against one another."

"Of course not," Gale chuckled. "I'll admit I was as surprised as you are that Selene's made such a kindhearted offer."

Selene grinned. "It was something I'd thought of before, don't worry -- I didn't mean to spring it on you so suddenly but when I heard Gale mention the Happy Apartments, I... They really ARE small."

"But serviceable," Gale said, waggling a teasing finger at Selene. "I'm not offering her a moldy hole in the wall."

"Yeah, yeah - they're clean and in good shape, just small."

Eli looked between the two of them silently for a moment or two, then huffed out a sigh. "All right, well. At least let me see both rooms before I make my decision."

Selene clapped and hurried toward the front door, fumbling for her keys.

#Lost in Time #lit #Lost in Time - ch 6 #Merlin #Petra #Gale #Builder #My Time at Portia

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jovialyouthmusic · 4 years ago

Text

Silver Service

Anton is moved to a new location, and all is made ready for the lantern festival at Valtoria. Madeleine has questions for her mother, and progress is made in solving the mystery of the gunman in the cathedral.

Word count 2752

A/N warnings - implied smut so still NOT SUITABLE FOR UNDER 18s

15 Up in the air

Anton paced his small cell. Instead of lying in wait to take the King hostage, he was in prison. Luckily he had a card up his sleeve – the documents that supported the fact that at the time Constantine took the throne, his own grandfather, Alfred, came out of exile in Monaco to make a counter claim on behalf of the Severus family. He had disappeared in mysterious circumstances, and Anton’s parents never returned to the country. His mother died when he was very little, and he was brought up largely by his father, who had died some five years ago.

His father had drummed into him the idea that he should be on the throne, that Constantine was corrupt and despotic. He had died a bitter man, making Anton swear that he would gather his forces and take power. In his childhood the Nevrakis family had visited them twice, and he had met his intended queen when she was a baby. They had brought with them copies of the ancient agreement that stated that should the Severus and Nevrakis heirs be of a gender and age to be betrothed, that a marriage would be binding subject to the signing of the documents that they brought with them. That and the clause in documents held by both Nevrakis and the Crown that stated that should the ruling line (in this case the Rys family) not have an heir by the end of the first year of a new monarch’s reign, that the Crown should be claimed by the Nevrakis, gave him what he thought was an iron clad claim. It just would have been a lot easier had Constantine or Liam abdicated in his favour, or died in power or just before being crowned.

He heard the key in the cell door, and it opened to reveal his lawyer and three guards – one prison guard and two King’s men.

‘Prisoner, hold out your hands’ intoned the prison guard, revealing a pair of handcuffs. He scowled, but his lawyer made a reassuring gesture.

‘It’s alright Mr Severus, you’re being transferred to you new quarters.’ She said ‘Until you reach your destination, you must, by law, be restrained. Once you are there, you will be afforded freedom within your own suite and will have access to outside space. I can assure you it is a far more suitable place than this cell’ He held out his wrists and felt the cold steel click around them. He glowered at his escort party.

‘I demand to know the names of these men’ he asserted ‘When my claim to the throne is acknowledged, the manner in which I am treated will determine whether they are rewarded or reprimanded’ He held his head high as one of the men stepped forward to escort him outside.

‘My name is Parker, Mr Severus, and my colleague is Marcus’

‘Make a note of that’ Anton commanded his lawyer, who nodded and took out her cell phone and tapped away for a few seconds.

‘Follow me please’ Parker directed, and he lead the way, flanked by his lawyer and followed by Marcus. They walked to the end of the corridor to the first locked gate, and beyond past three more, and in the lobby, two more guards waited. Anton was handed back his belongings and signed himself out of the prison into the custody of the King’s Guard. He was hurried swiftly from the outside door to a waiting van in the prison courtyard. No photographers could record his release, and he did not see if any other vehicles accompanied the van, due to the small high windows in the van. He was strapped in to a four point seat belt that doubled as a restraint when locked.

‘This is outrageous’ he growled ‘If there was an accident I would be unable to escape’ Marcus made a grimace.

‘Don’t worry, Severus, there are contingency plans’ he replied before he spoke into his security microphone ‘All stowed away’ he intoned, and the van lurched into motion.

------

‘So you sent him to High View?’ Olivia asked Liam as they travelled to Valtoria, the Royal limo flanked by King’s Guard vehicles. It was comprised of outrider motorcycles and SUVs, and Regina was to follow an hour later with a similar retinue. ‘I presume you’ve closed it to the public’ She referred to a manor that in the past had served as a summer residence for the Royal Family before Constantine’s father chose Applewood. It had consequently been converted into half self catering, half stately home, and was open for visitors to look around. It had fallen out of favour as a tourist destination in the last few years, and had been largely converted into apartments and cottages for both short term and holiday lets, though it struggled to make money. It was located on a small peninsula an hour’s drive from the capital, accessible only by one road and surrounded on three sides by sheer sea cliffs.

‘Of course, Livvy’ he answered ‘All the bookings have been cancelled and transferred to other properties and everyone has been cleared out. Anton will be staying in a first floor apartment, and the main ground floor flat will be staffed by the Guard.’

‘Will he have his own staff?’ she asked

‘Just the bare minimum – cook, cleaner and personal assistant’ he answered. ‘We had to negotiate hard not to allow him any more than that’

‘And the security arrangements?’ she asked ‘Will he be allowed visitors?’

‘His movements will be monitored round the clock. At night he’ll be under lock and key, and any visitors have to be approved – Bastien or Lewis, myself and Anton’s lawyer will be consulted in every case. The outside of the castle is already monitored by security cameras, and the guard will randomly deploy surveillance drones.’ She sighed heavily

‘I suppose that will do’ she said ‘Perhaps we can enjoy the Lantern festival somewhat, but my nerves are on edge’ Liam put his hand on her arm

‘I know exactly what you mean’ he said ‘I can barely imagine being free of Anton’s machinations. I live in hope that we can refute his claim’

------

The manor bustled with activity not seen for decades. The housekeeping team were kept busy directing nobles to their rooms or suites and fulfilling their various demands and requests. Gladys had done an excellent job – all was spotless and floral arrangements adorned every room and corridor, though a few had to be moved for various guests suffering from allergies. The festival was to be held the following day, allowing time for guests to settle in and eat before retiring for the night. Marquees and stalls were being set up, and folk could either eat in the marquees or picnic in the grounds. The Valtorian public were intrigued to see the grounds of the Manor after so many years of it being private, and crowds were expected.

There was no formal dinner that night. Instead, caterers had been brought in to set up a giant informal buffet, and apart from a table for Liam, Regina and invited guests, everyone was free to sit where they wished at tables set for six. Bastien and Sophia shared a table with Drake and Riley, and Damien joined them with a pretty young woman accompanying him – a minor noble that Bastien had only come across once or twice.

‘Hey, there’s Adelaide’ Drake commented as he sat with a plate piled high with food, nodding at a table on the other side of the room. ‘She doesn’t look so well – has she been ill?’ Damien looked round furtively, and Bastien made a discreet cough. Sophia glared across at the Duchess, who she knew Bastien had some involvement with in the past. She sat at a table while her daughter picked her out some savouries. The older woman looked across at them and gave a weak smile. Drake chuckled ‘Maxwell will be able to relax, Addy doesn’t look like she’ll be chasing him tonight’

Sophia amused herself by looking round the room and identifying as many nobles as she could. Some months ago Bastien had given her files on many of them in order for her to help him with a little surveillance. She had been serving drinks and listening to gossip to glean useful information for him on the social tour when Liam was deciding on a bride. Neville Delacouer sat with Lady Penelope, and Rashad Domvallier sat at the same table talking to Lady Kiara Lady Hana Lee sat with a minor noble but looked bored at his attempts at conversation. Olivia sat with Liam and Regina, and Lord Domvallier senior sat next to the Queen Mother. They had been seen together a few times recently. He had been a close friend of the couple and had been widowed only a year ago.

‘Should Olivia be sitting with Liam?’ Sophia murmured to Bastien as the other on their table talked. ‘Tongues will wag’

‘I think they want that to happen’ he said ‘The sooner folk get the idea that she’s close to the King the better.’

‘But it’s rather complicated by Anton’s claim, and the betrothal agreement’ she pointed out. Bastien shrugged.

‘I think they deserve a little diversion from all the drama’ he said ‘and hopefully we’ll find a way round that yet’ He looked up as one of his men approached the table.

‘Sir’ he said ‘Lewis sent me to fetch you. We’ve made a breakthrough concerning who hired the assassin at the cathedral’

--------

The conversation between Madeleine and her mother had been challenging. She had already arrived at Valtoria when Madeleine booked in to her suite – or rather, their suite. Her usual icy calm demeanour cracked when they met in their shared lounge.

‘Mother, where the hell have you been?’ she snapped, not caring that she looked pale and thin. ‘Why didn’t you answer my texts?’ Her mother stood, gripping the back of a chair for support.

‘I’m sorry Maddy, I was ill’ she replied faintly

‘Why didn’t you tell me?’

‘I didn’t want to worry you, darling. You really couldn’t have done anything’

‘But I’d at least have liked to know’ she fumed ‘Did you see a doctor?’

‘I – I was in hospital, Maddy’ she admitted, tears starting to her eyes. ‘Please don’t ask me anything else. I’m back, and I’m fine’ She sank into the chair, fumbling in her pocket for a handkerchief.

‘Hospital?’ Madeleine tried to keep her composure ‘and just where was that hospital? Why didn’t they inform me?’

‘I can’t…’ the Duchess held the hankie to her face, dabbing at her eyes. Madeleine scoffed.

‘At least tell me whether you left the country or not’ she asked, and her mother nodded faintly.

‘Let me guess, it was one of your assignations’ she said, and paused in thought. ‘Was it some weird sex game that went wrong?’ Adelaide’s eyes grew wide with horror but she didn’t deny it. Madeleine squeezed the bridge of her nose and screwed her eyes shut.

‘Really mother, you should know better’ she said in a strangled voice ‘Did you have to pay anyone to keep it quiet?’ There was a shake of the head at this question. She couldn’t look her daughter in the eye, and tears started to flow.

‘Can’t you show a little compassion, Maddy?’ she pleaded ‘Maybe give me a hug?’ Madeleine sighed in exasperation

‘How can I be sympathetic if you won’t tell me what happened?’ Adelaide made a big effort to stem the tears, taking a deep breath and sitting straighter.

‘I just wanted to protect you, Maddy. The King may have told you he won’t marry you, but he hasn’t married anyone else. He has to have an heir, and maybe you could make some sort of arrangement’ Madeleine’s eyes opened wide.

‘You really think so?’ her tone was sarcastic. ‘I offered him a Cordonian marriage and he turned it down, what makes you think he wants me to be mother to an heir?’ Adelaide wrung her hands together.

‘He may have a change of heart’ she said hopefully.

‘Well, you’ll be interested to know that I brought the subject up again, and yet again he turned me down.’ She sniffed and Adelaide’s face fell.

‘Oh my baby’ she sobbed ‘I can’t understand it. You’re pretty, and clever, and your father and I made sure you got the best training. You’re the best Queen Cordonia could hope for’

‘Yes well, maybe if you’d allowed a little space for the possibility that I might fail, I’d have some idea what to actually do with my life now’ she said bitterly. ‘Not that I don’t appreciate you pushing me to be my best – but your ambition was rather specific.’

‘I’m sorry Maddy. Everyone needs a purpose – heaven knows I should understand that’ Madeleine sighed.

‘What was so bad you couldn’t tell me?’ she asked ‘You’re my mother, it’s not like I’d stop talking to you’

‘You’d be so disappointed though’ she replied, downcast. ‘and it might have repercussions’ Just then there was a knock on the door, and a one of the staff entered to let them know food was being served.

‘This isn’t over, mother’ Madeleine said sternly ‘I’ll get to the bottom of this ‘

------

‘So Lucretia was the one who hired the gunman?’ Bastien said incredulously. Damien looked puzzled.

‘That doesn’t make sense. She was in league with Anton, why didn’t she just go with his plans?’

‘I don’t know’ said Lewis ‘It took quite some time, but we managed to track back the payment he received, and it couldn’t have been anyone else.’

‘It looks like we have to question her again’ said Bastien. ‘But as Anton is under control, I don’t think we all need to go right now.’ He turned to Lewis ‘But I think you should go and have a word with her, see what you can find out. If she’s stubborn, then I’ll go to see her. Damien – it’s up to you. Will your work schedule wait longer? I’d appreciate your help, but it’s not essential’

‘I’ll go with Lewis if we go now’ he said ‘If we move swiftly we may even be back in time for the festival’

‘That’s fine by me’ answered Lewis.

‘Very well’ replied Bastien ‘Keep me informed, let’s see if she’ll co-operate this time’

-------

The next day Sophia woke alone, hearing the shower running in the bathroom. She rose and opened the curtains to the tall windows, and found herself looking out over a sea of marquees, tents and stalls on the lawn outside. People bustled about setting out goods and firing up grills and ovens, and flags and bunting adorned the temporary structures. Bastien came back into the bedroom, naked and towelling himself off. He joined Sophia at the window, wrapping his arms around her and kissing the nape of her neck.

‘Good morning my goddess’

‘Bas, people will see’ she protested ‘Go and put some clothes on’ Her body betrayed her by melting back into his embrace. He smelled clean and his skin was still damp.

‘I don’t care’ he murmured in her ear ‘And I don’t have to get dressed just yet’ He snuck his hand under her nightdress, skimming his hand over her belly. She could feel him pressing hard against the small of her back, but she grabbed his hand and pulled his little finger to the side, just enough to make him yelp in pain and surprise.

‘You just showered’ she scolded ‘You’ll have to do it all over again’

‘Come and shower with me and that’s two birds killed with one stone’ he insisted, this time bringing his hand to her backside and squeezing her cheek. She laughed, turning round and throwing her arms around his neck.

‘You are a persistent man, Mr Lykel’ she sighed, and stretched up to kiss him on the lips. The kiss lingered and she pressed herself to him.

‘I notice you’re not saying no, Miss Turner’ he said in a low tone, picking her up easily off the ground so that she had to wrap her legs around him and cling on to stop from falling. She squealed in protest as he carried her off to the bathroom. His gait was an undignified waddle, but he kept hold of her all the way.

‘I can never say no to you’ she laughed as he shut the door and bore her to the shower.

Next Chapter 16 Under Pressure

#silver service #protect and serve #bastien lykel #OC x Bastien #sophia x bastien #anton severus

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cruelintentionsrp · 4 years ago

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#cruelrp #guidelines #preview #site buzz #jcink premium #jcink rp

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madlymiho · 5 years ago

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We're celebrating a special day today, the birthday of one of the greatest person I have ever met! @all-blue-headcanons, my lovely friend, I have a special something for you!

I don't have enough words to tell you how important you are in my life, because for months now, you have been nothing but a fantastic friend, even when things were tough and complicated in our respective lives. You're probably the strongest person I know, and I just have the deepest respect for your incredible nature, and that big golden heart of yours! Because yes, my sweet Blue, you truly have one and you deserve all the best things in the world! Happy birthday, my darling 💖

Mhmh!!! Since you have already made such a fantastic alphabet for the incredible Crocodile, I've decided to honor another of your favorite character, this lovely ginger-head man who truly deserves more of the spotlights too 😋

X-Drake NSFW Alphabet : ALL THE LETTERS

A = Aftercare (What they’re like after sex)

Drake is particularly attentive when it comes to the end of your sexy moment. He’s often very sensitive to your needs, and will do everything to make you feel comfortable. As soon as he breaks the shell around his natural shyness, Drake is someone rather careful and kind. He might doesn’t know what you want, so be prepared to get a lot of questions in your first times, until he properly analyzes how you work and what do you prefer. Water, blankets, food, towel, books, perhaps a bath? He really doesn’t mind to leave the bed to get you something.

But what Drake prefers are the cuddles after your intercourse. He’s still in a pretty sexy mood for a while, and he definitely craves to feel your body. He loves to see both of your bodies almost flushed together, even if you’re all dirty, and the natural warmness of your skin is something which somehow reassure him a lot, and most of the time, your aftercare moments are always about his big arms rolled around your waist and his mouth hidden in the crook of your neck.

B = Body part (Their favourite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

Drake is pretty proud of his chest. He loves to see the look you give him whenever he walks bare chest - which is always - and he often smirks and blushes, knowing perfectly that you are sensitive to his charm. After all, there’s something animal, almost primal within him, and you crave to feel the softness of his torso under your touch, whenever you start to get kinky in your shared bedroom.

However, when it comes to you, Drake is a little bit of a perv, and he can’t control himself. He loves everything about your beauty, yes that’s a fact, but when you walk in front of him, he only looks at your rear, and already imagines the many things he could do to it. He also has a certain interested in your breasts, and definitely, you can feel his hungry stare when you’re wearing a something with a revealing cleavage.

C = Cum (Anything to do with cum basically… I’m a disgusting person)

Oohhh Drake tastes really good. Even if he likes to have his booze from time to time, it’s not an usual habit because of his father. He tends to be really careful to what can give him addiction, so he’s not a drunkard and it’s perhaps for the best. His alimentation is very correct for a pirate, and he doesn’t mind eating veggies, fishes, meats and all good dishes for his body. He takes care of himself since he’s still young but also mature, and doesn’t really appreciate to overeat during fests. He’s content with many ailments, which gives him a very creamy cum, but not so bitter and pretty nice to swallow.

But oh, dear. When it comes to the bedroom, Drake’s inner instincts are quite wild and it might surprise you at first. He’s a bit messy in the sheets, and frankly obsessed with the idea to have this strange power to ravage you, so most of the time, when he’s really in a very intense session, he begs you to cum on your breasts or just at your entrance, so he can see the drops of his seed dripping along your thighs.

D = Dirty Secret (Pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

Drake dirtiest secret is pretty simple, but for him it’s really something flustering. He loves you very much and he tends to get slightly addicted to you, especially when you’re not around to satisfy his needs. So Drake has many many, maaaany pictures of you, and some particular parts of your body, hidden in the drawer of his desk, in his captain’s cabin. All those pictures have some white spots on them… because yes, he often jerks himself off on them whenever you’re far from him. Hopefully, you won’t ever find them, but he’s not really proud about it!

E = Experience (How experienced are they? Do they know what they’re doing?)

Drake is quite a normal experienced man for a 33 years old man. He didn’t had many girlfriends in his life, but he has some experience with one night stands, and other meaningless short relationships, especially when he was still in the Marine. So he knows what he’s doing, despite his shy nature, and the fact that it’s still complicated for him to flirt with a woman.

Yet, when Drake is with you in the bed, you better be certain that he knows what he’s doing. He often works by instinct, but most of the time, you are always satisfied by his pace, his positions, and the sweet things he whispers in your ears. He forgets everything about his flaws and his fears during these moments, embracing entirely who he is, and what he can make you feel. So you’re a really lucky woman! Drake knows what pleases you, and he’s generous and kind enough to make you reach the Seventh Heavens each time you have sex together.

F = Favourite Position (This goes without saying. Will probably include a visual)

Alrighhhht, it’s time to dig a little bit more in which positions are often use by your sexy ginger-head lover. And it’s not certainly the most common ones! Yes, Drake likes to explore, to feel you deeper, closer, and thanks to his Zoan nature, his wildness is really something present in your sexy moments.

First, you need to know that Drake is a top. He would never really give you the power in bed, even if he lets you take the lead, from time to time. Perhaps it’s a bit because of his manly character, or something more shameful, but he would aways prefer to pin you hard against the mattress. He likes to have you all wrapped around his body, your breasts always brushing his chest during his thrusts so he can appreciate their softness, if not playing with them. There’s also something very hot in the crab position, where he knows you can’t really move and just takes him, fully, his eyes seeing every emotion on your face, while he can kiss you passionately.

However, Drake got really something with the positions where he can take you from behind, since he can go really deep inside of you, and makes you moan for him. He appreciates to put all his weight on your body, trapping you under his ferocious thrusts, as you’re able to touch yourself if you’re willing to. Of course, when he really wants to be in charge, and feels all the power he has on you, you better be certain that you’re going to do the downward dog position.

G = Goofy (Are they more serious in the moment, or are they humorous, etc)

Drake is not the most goofy person you’ll encounter for a sexy session. First, he already needs to get into it. I mean, seducing a woman? Letting her see the ravenous fire on his cheeks whenever he tries to have a word with her? It’s a damn adventure! So no, Drake is quite old school in the sheets! Plus, Drake shares his nature with a primal carnivorous beast with wild and dangerous behaviors… Sex is nothing but a natural inner need, so, no, he doesn’t really joke about it and wouldn’t appreciate to hear some jokes as he pounds inside of you. It would only disturb him, and you don’t want to face a pissed off dino!!

H = Hair (How well groomed are they, does the carpet match the drapes, etc.)

Yes, the carpet definitely matches the drapes! Drake is a beautiful ginger man, and you’ll definitely fine some lovely orange hair in his underwear, even if they are slightly darker than the ones of his head.

Yet, even if Drake has a quite good hygiene - at least he showers once a day - he’s not particularly found of getting rid of his hair! He doesn’t like to shave this area, and would do the strict minimum to keep it clean and not too hairy for you. But don’t ask him to shave the entire thing, he would never agree! Drake is proud of his hair, he feels manly, and wouldn’t like to look like a young teenage boy. He’s a man, okay?

I = Intimacy (How are they during the moment, romantic aspect…)

It really depends on the mood of your intercourse, and why you’re having sex at the moment!

If it’s a quicky, Drake isn’t really romantic. It must be intense, quick, passionate, so he’s not going to be really careful with you. As soon as he’s entirely sure that you can take him all (we’ll talk about it but wow wow what a cock!), he’s going to pound hard and even talk dirty.

Same scenario would happen if your intimate session if for a roleplay, or a sort of bedroom reconciliation moment after an argument. He needs to make you moan, and sweat hard, and there’s no place for romance when he’s still slightly angry about your behaviors…

However, Drake could be very romantic from time to time. He also appreciates to be tender with you, slowly rocking his hips as he kisses you, whispering your name in the crook of your neck. He likes those particular moments when the two of you have been separated for a while, creating this intense need to feel you intensely, and deeply.

J = Jack Off (Masturbation headcanon)

Dear god, what an intense need we have here! Yes, it’s a thing, but Drake likes to masturbate. He’s doing it at least everyday, starting his early morning routines by a long shower where he beats his meat to get rid of any kind of frustration. It’s easy for him to get hard ; he only needs to remember your bouncing body on his cock, and pouf, you have a massive boner here! He tends to have a certain obsession with all kind of sexual things, and he definitely doesn’t want to think about shoving his dick inside of you all the time, especially when he’s about to have a rough and serious day!

Plus, it’s also a way for him to relax. Being the captain of a pirate ship, and also at war with many other dangerous people, doesn’t really help in general and he doesn’t want to let those things affect his mood. So let him have some fun before starting the day! If you have sex later, don’t worry... He will be ready anyway.

K = Kink (One or more of their kinks)

Grinding. Oh, he loves it. He loves when you’re both still fully dressed, aroused as hell, but there’s still this clothes’ barrier between your genitals. He loves to rub his hard cock against your covered core, feeling your desire, your anticipation, the way you chase your pleasure because you want so much more… When he’s about to enter you, he takes his time to let his cock sliding against your wet entrance, your growing frustration becoming something wild and present. It’s really one of his favorite kink!

Also, Drake really has something with his seed. When he cums inside of you, he usually remains still for a very long time after his orgasm, feeling his warm cum plastered against your inner walls. Perhaps because he wishes to become a father one day, or perhaps he finds it really arousing and dangerous, but when he loads in the deepest part of your womb, Drake wants to remain buried there for a while, until he pulls out with a very nasty sound, immediately followed by his creamy semen.

Mmmmh, roleplays in bed… Drake loves it deeply! When he can use his former marine uniform to punish you, he really goes crazy, taking you hard and deep, until you come in a long growl. Yes, it excites him when he’s playing someone slightly rougher than usual, and he loves to have you under his control in this situation.

During his wildest sessions with you Drake particularly appreciates anal sex. The narrowness of your pink hole makes him going crazy, and from time to time, he loves to see you struggling so hard to take him in that particular hole. It’s a great little game, and he loves when you do your best, overwhelmed under his long and sharp thrusts as he takes you from behind.

L = Location (Favourite places to do the do)

If Drake appreciates to make love to you in his bedroom, he deeply prefers your sexy sessions outside. Yes, when he’s the middle of nature, there’s something sexy to take you here and there, only pulling down his pants to shove his dick right inside of you. It’s perhaps because of his Devil Fruit, or some inner instincts, but most of the time, Drake is always turned-on when you’re walking on lonely paths somewhere far from the curious eyes.

He also greatly appreciates sex in his boat office, throwing the many maps, compasses and pens on his desk right on the ground, to put your rear at the edge of it and slams his hips against yours. It often happens during your quickies, but it’s a real motivation to remain awake at night when he has to work. At least, he can have a proper break with some intimate and carnal moments with you, and he deeply enjoys this.

M = Motivation (What turns them on, gets them going)

You’re a walking turned-on for him, you have to get it. Drake is literally drooling whenever you’re near him, even if he’s perfectly able to maintain a strict and stoic face by your side. He always dreams to undress you as soon as you smile at him, and more than once, he has to control himself, your pretty eyes and your lovely features calling for something more… sexual.

Yet, he can’t deny that watching you walking in his shirts is also really great. He just needs to lift that little small homemade dress of yours, and voilà, you’re soon enough bouncing on his lap, moaning his name. He’s really not complicated to get in the mood!

N = NO (Something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Anything which involve pain, Drake would hate it. He suffers from a very complicated past with his drunkard father and clearly doesn’t want to bring unnecessary pain in your sexy moments. He hates to be marked, in any way, and even hickeys aren’t always welcome. He needs to trust you deeply to let your teeth creating a purple circle on his neck, and frankly, this is only to suit you. Drake finds it unnecessarily dangerous and he would rather avoid it.

Everything which involve pegging him too. He’s really not in the mood to let you play with his sacred hole, and he would violently turn you down if you ever suggest the idea. This is out of question!

O = Oral (Preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc)

Drake loves to give oral to his partners, but sincerely, he really has something when you give him a blowjob first. He just can’t control himself ; you’re way too hot when you’re sucking him. Everything is a sweet torture is addicted to ; from your soft lips circling the head of his cock, to your expert hands on his balls and your sensational tongue ; it’s the perfect way to start the day or to finish it. When you two are involved during a quicky, sometimes, he only wants you to give him head, because it’s really his guilty pleasure.

However, he’s not bad at making you moan under his tongue! Drake has a very sweet wet muscle, and he has some experience as well. He knows how to make you cum, even if his gestures might be sometimes sloppy at first. But there’s really nothing alarming! Drake is just overwhelmed by the scents of your core and he sometimes gets a little bit too much excited, sucking a bit too harshly on your clit.

P = Pace (Are they fats and rough? Slow and sensual? etc.)

Well, usually, Drake is someone rather passionate and raw. He’s in his golden age, he’s experienced and full of stamina, plus he’s a Zoan, so hey hey, you’re going to really have some fun in bed! He just loves to pound inside of you at his best performance, and sincerely, it always swips you away, so once you’re used to it, you sincerely adore it!

From time to time, though, Drake is able to offer you some slow and tender thrusts, especially when you’re not at your best shape. He certainly doesn’t want to hurt you, so he manages to control himself and to give you enough pleasure by moving his hips with a slower pace, less sharp than usual. It often happens when you’re tired, injured or sick. He likes to cuddle you in those bad moments and be there for you, and most of the time, it leads the two of you to a reassuring sexy session. He appreciates to make you feel good by the power of his magical dino cock, and who can blame him? He knows the best medicine.

Q = Quickie (Their opinions on quickies rather than proper sex, how often, etc.)

He does love those quickies as much as regular sexy sessions! Yes, oh yes, Drake is a busy man, always sailing somewhere, getting involved in political issues, or fighting enemies… He’s not always sure when he’s going to have a proper night with you, so quickies became a real option to keep the fire alive between the two of you. Also, it really matches with his very instinctive nature. Quickies are nothing but moment where the both of you surrender to your needs, and those primal sessions feel really hot. Yep, you totally have a fan of quickies here!

R = Risk (Are they game to experiment, do they take risks, etc.)

Frankly, at the beginning of your relationship, yes, he doesn’t like to take risks. He’s barely able to control himself, so he doesn’t really want to put you in risky situations where the two of you could be busted by anyone. No, not really a pleasure to think about it… But with time… Drake evolves differently. The crowd around, the pregnancy risk, everything which involves something rather dangerous feels thrilling and you manage experiencing new stuff in your relationship that you would have never expected coming from him! He just gets more comfortable with you and this is his way to show you that he’s really ready to go deeper in his feelings. The more he takes risks with you, and the more you know he really loves you. What a pirate!

S = Stamina (How many rounds can they go for, how long do they last…)

Great lord, my lady, you need to be ready! Drake is only 33 years old, he’s young and full of energy, and he knows what he’s doing and how to control himself when he’s about to cum. He knows how to keep you panting for hours, pounding hard inside of you, and honestly, you have never experienced someone so primal and raw, but also… with that ability to actually last for hours?! It feels like a performance for him, a goal he needs to achieve. But if you ever feel uncomfortable and sore, Drake would stop everything, and wouldn’t even mind if he didn’t come. Pain, remember? He doesn’t want it.

Yet, one round is never enough for him, especially during your quickies. There’s something missing, and he’s definitely energetic enough to go for a second! As soon as he came, usually, he needs just a few minutes to get a raging hard on for the second time, plastering your back on the mattress or wherever you are, purring in your ear that you didn’t have enough and he can see it.

T = Toy (Do they own toys? Do they use them? On a partner or themselves?)

Not really interested? I mean, he’s not close-minded but he doesn’t really get the point of adding toys in your sessions when you have already plenty to play with? Sex shall only involved the two persons who are in the room, and he doesn’t really understand your need to bring something new and definitely odd for him in this perfect equation. However! Well, blindfold and handcuffs aren’t a problem if he can use it on you, and have some fun with your body while you can’t respond. This dominant kink is really something which turns him on.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

Drake can be slightly unfair when it comes to sex and foreplays, but this is always very respectful. Sex gives him power over your body, and you also know that he’s pretty old-school and definitely loves to top you. He likes to take his time with you when he knows that he has plenty, and if he can deny your orgasm a few times, he simply goes for it. There’s something in your frustration that build up his own excitement, and soon enough, he lets you burst into this intense climax, reminding you that you look absolutely dirty and needy under his big fingers.

Yet, he’s not unfair at all of your sessions, and doesn’t mind if you play with him a little. His tolerance is very low, though, because teasing him on his deepest instincts is somehow very bold of you! But perhaps you want it rough, and he will definitely go in that direction if you tease him too much.

V = Volume (How loud they are, what sounds they make)

Drake isn’t the loudest in the sheets, but he’s definitely not the most silent either! He doesn’t powerfully moans, but there’s those deep and bestial whimpers which slowly filled the room along with the delicious sound of your colliding flesh. Drake tries to maintain his voice down, but the deepness of his tone is often busted by everyone on the ship. When he reaches his climax, Drake tends to growl even harder, but honestly, you are too swept away to actually ask him to keep it down!

W = Wild Card (Get a random headcanon for the character of your choice)

Wild card, oh! Let’s talk about the fact that he has some problems when you’re topping him. Yes, I mean real issues. Drake is always pretty flustered with a naked woman around, even more when she’s bouncing on his lap, her breasts coming up and down, as she looks nothing but the most sexual thing on Earth. Drake still has nosebleed happening from time to time, and when you’re topping him, the chances of seeing a river of blood coming out of his nose are big! It’s not entirely because he prefers to be the top, or because he’s too manly to let you have some power… No, sweetheart, he’s just terrified to see how much you dominate him in many ways when you’re the one in charge!

X = X-Ray (Let’s see what’s going on in those pants, picture or words)

The dino cock… Let’s talk about this piece of art we have here! Yes, Drake could be really proud of his manhood, it’s already impressive when he’s fully dressed and you can only imagine the thing when you look at this bulge!

Drake is already pretty tall (233cm/ 7.73), so basically you can’t expect him to have a worm in his pants, it wouldn’t match his height. And he definitely doesn’t have one! Drake’s cock his long, but also large, and there are also many veins on it, but nothing disgusting, on the contrary, it reveals his deep nervous nature. So yes, down there, he’s around 23-24 cm (9 inches), and this is really something if you’re willing to share his bed!

The head of his cock is slightly redder than the other part, otherwise, the skin is darker than his natural color. His balls are also smaller than his cock, but they swell a lot if they are full.

He’s definitely a shower rather than a grower! When he’s not excited, Drake’s cock looks pretty the same, losing just two or three centimeters, explaining the massive bulge you often spot in his pants. When he’s excited, he tends to have a lovely curve to the left, which is just amazing when he penetrates you!

Y = Yearning (How high is their sex drive?)

Very high for his age and way before average! Drake isn’t old, it’s true, but seriously, he’s very intense in his sexuality and he has some high needs on this matter. Drake thinks about sex a lot since he ate his Devil Fruit, and having you around doesn’t really help to calm down his nature. He wants you all the time… I mean really all the time, sweetheart! Sex is almost an everyday task in your relationship, even after many years. Drake tends to deeply crave those moments with you, but wouldn’t force you if you’re not in the mood.

Z = ZZZ (… how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

He’s not the kind of man who falls asleep after he had sex. Alright, he can feel a sort of inner calm within, or perhaps a soft call for a nap (or night time if you just had sex in the middle of the night), but Drake doesn’t easily fall asleep.

He likes to make this moment lasts a little bit more, cuddling you softly when you don’t want something particular, his thumbs fondling your hips and your back, as he kisses you intensely. This is just impossible for him to cum, roll his hips and fall asleep, when he has just shared something so wonderful with you. You’re usually the one who loses the battle in his arms, his kind massage and the heat of his body sending you in a deep and comfortable sleep.

#one piece headcanons #one piece imagine #X Drake #x drake one piece #dino drake #one piece headers #one piece imagines #one piece hcs #one piece hc #lemon #not suitable #HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIFT #all-blue-headcanons

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kusunogatari · 4 years ago

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[ ObiRyū October | Day Twelve | Mechanical ] [ @abyssaldespair ] [ Uchiha Obito, Suigin Ryū, Pein, Sasori, Hoshigaki Kisame ] [ Verse: Oil and Blood ] [ Vulgarity, blood ]

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Let’s see...which door was it again?

Walking along the alleyway, bag slung over his shoulder, Obito gives each entrance a glance. He can’t quite recall which number he’s supposed to be looking for...but at least he’s pretty sure he knows this is the right building. A few neon signs flicker in the grim dark space between the structures, rain slipping into the gap and forming puddles along the asphalt.

What a night for a fight.

Coming to a stop, Obito finds a door with a closed slat. 116. Is that right…? Deciding to try his luck, he knocks.

After a brief pause, the tiny window opens, a pair of eyes hidden behind a visor staring at him. “What d’you what?”

“Looking for Pein.”

There’s a noticeable silence. “...fine.” The slat closes, then the door opens, and Obito steps inside. “Be quick about it. You’re late.”

He ignores the touchy retort, taking the stairs downward as indicated by a pointing thumb over the guy’s shoulder. Already he can hear the distant murmurs of the crowds, swelling and falling in time with what they’re watching.

He can do this. Make it through a few rounds, and earn enough cash to get out of the city. Should be simple enough, so long as he doesn’t get his ass kicked too hard.

After scoping out a few of the city’s underground fighting rings, this one seemed the most promising to make a quick buck. He just needs enough for new papers, and a ticket out.

Can’t let himself get too greedy. It’s gambling, after all...and even if he’s one of the pieces in the game, there’s no real knowing the outcome.

It takes several flights of stairs to reach the proper floor, the roars barely suppressed. And as he opens a pair of double doors at the end of a corridor, the sound hits him full blast.

In the belly of the building, opening up to several floors, is the arena. Torn apart, beams and structure have been revealed as the building was stripped, people hanging out on all levels to get better views. In the center, a raised cage arena houses cybernetic fighters duking it out to near-death, mods glowing and blood spraying. Bright, cold lights illuminate the spectacle for all to see.

It’s been a while since he’s resorted to this. But legitimate work is hard to find, especially for someone with his record. So Obito lets his strength and his size earn his way.

Skirting the crowd that’s gathered on the main floor, he tries to find the man in question: the one he can talk to about getting in on the fights. The description he was given is vague: ginger, piercings, gaunt.

Sounds like a whole slew of people in here.

But he keeps looking until a man catches his eye. Something about the way he watches the contestants down below gives the aura of someone bored, wanting only for the show to end and the results to come in.

“You Pein?”

The stranger turns, and Obito finds himself a bit unnerved.

Rinnegan model eye mods. The ripple-like purple orbs, covering the entire visible eye, are some of the most advanced tech out there. They can connect to security networks and essentially “see” through anything taking video. Something tells Obito this whole place is wired, and just by standing here, this guy can see everything the cameras see.

“I’m someone who goes by Pein,” he replies a bit cryptically. “Are you here to fight?”

“Thought I’d do a few rounds.”

“You’ll have to have our tech check out your mods, make sure there’s nothing illegal.”

The idea earns a snort. Not illegal in terms of the laws, but the rules of the arena: nothing that will give him an unfair advantage against the other fighters. “All right.”

Hand to an ear, ‘Pein’ contacts someone with an internal comms mod. “Sasori, I need you to do a mods check.” He then glances to Obito. “It will be a moment. Once you are approved, you will have a locker to secure your belongings. Then you’ll be entered into the pool. How many rounds?”

“Depends on the winnings. I have a minimum to make.”

Pein eyes him, expression blank. “...very well.”

A few moments later, a redhead - short in stature - seems to materialize beside his employer. Right away, Obito can tell this guy is one deep into mods: more mechanical than biological.

“This is him. Get him approved, then we’ll get him in.”

“This way,” Sasori orders, leading Obito to an offshoot room. “Remove your outer garments.”

Well...here we go. Shrugging out of everything but his boxers, Obito reveals the majority of his mods. An entire arm has been replaced to the shoulder. On that same side, plating and wires adorn part of his neck, chest, abdomen, and part of his outer hip.

With a scanning module in his palm, Sasori starts looking over the hardware. “Most of these appear to be medical in origin.”

“Yeah. Accident,” Obito offers, refusing to elaborate.

“...some advancements in the arm, but nothing above code. The plating is also within our standards. You may proceed.”

He just nods, regathering his clothes. Knowing it will only get bloodied, he stashes his shirt in the locker Sasori unlocks for him, leaving him in his pants. He also takes off his shoes, pulling some fingerless gloves over his hands.

...nothing else to do.

He’s then led to another room, larger, where the other potential participants linger. To Obito’s honest surprise, a fair number of women fill the ranks. A few people lightly spar, punching and blocking in preparation of their fights.

“Name?”

Obito looks back to Sasori. “...Tobi.”

“When you hear your name, proceed to the arena. Once the fight is over, if you wish to continue, you will return here until the next fight.”

A nod. He’s done this before.

With that, the redhead disappears again, and Obito gives the room another studying glance. He’ll have to face at least a few of these people. Part of him hopes none of them will be women. He’ll fight one as an equal, but he’d rather not if he can help it.

“Well, you’re a new face I’ve not seen before.”

Looking to his left, Obito spots another fighter. And wow, this one has quite a few cosmetic mods. His skin is blue, hair a darker shade, and as he grins at Obito, a row of sharpened teeth glint in the light.

He even has gill mods.

Someone likes sharks just a little too much.

“Just making a pitstop,” Obito replies, beginning to stretch.

“There seem to be more and more of those nowadays. There are a few regulars like myself, but I suppose it’s not a very...agreeable lifestyle.”

Obito glances back to him. “How long have you been here?”

“Coming in now and again for years. At least once a week.”

Obito can believe it - he’s huge. Probably could crush his head if he wanted to. “Good money, or…?”

The man’s grin widens. “Somewhat. Mostly I just love beating the shit out of people.”

Oookay, hopefully they don’t end up as opponents. “Name’s Tobi.”

“Kisame. Good luck out there.”

“Thanks.”

A few other matches go by before Obito is called in. His first is nothing special, and he’s got the win within a few minutes. The arena is cleared, and he pockets his cash.

Just a few more.

Kisame too has his battles, handily winning each. After two more, Obito figures he just needs a single additional win.

“Tobi, Kisame, you’re up.”

...well shit.

“Ooh...well, nothing personal Tobi.”

“...yeah, likewise.”

The pair are let into the cage, the crowd hyping up. By now, it’s obvious they’re both top contenders. The announcer continues to egg on the audience as the gates are shut.

Obito sizes Kisame up. He’s huge, but...that might be a disadvantage when it comes to speed. While not the fastest himself, he might have better odds dodging.

Either way...he’ll admit he’s not confident in this one.

“FIGHT!”

The pair launch at each other, a blur of thrown fists and striking feet. Obito manages a few hits, but also takes his share. A split forms in a brow, blood leaking down his face. Alongside the sweat, it starts to make seeing a bit difficult.

This isn’t good.

And Kisame, despite their earlier friendly conversation, pulls no punches. Every blow that lands is like a train, aiming for the critical parts of Obito’s tech that help keep him alive.

Five minutes in, and he’s in deep shit. Damn...he just needed one more win…

Locking hands and struggling against Kisame’s strength, Obito’s jaw grits to the point of making his teeth ache. If he can just...get…

THWACK

With a crack that seems to echo, Kisame plows his forehead against Obito’s. His vision flickers, knees immediately giving out as his brain rattles. Like a puppet with its strings cut, he goes down, completely slack. Above him, he hears the countdown.

There’s no way in hell he’s getting up, now.

Damn it. Now that money’s going to have to go for other basics until he can rustle up more, and basically put him right back where he started.

Well...he tried.

Next thing he knows, Obito wakes in another room. Gone is the noise and ruckus of the crowd. He can barely hear it in the distance. And he can feel a bandage on his split brow, but everything else feels...muted. Slow. He’s obviously on some pretty hefty painkillers.

“Morning.”

Eyes struggling to move in their sockets, he finds himself visited by a woman. Without prompting, she starts going over his vitals and checking his condition. Some kind of...doctor? Employed by the pit?

“Where…?”

“You’re in the infirmary. Seems you got your cage pretty rattled,” she replies. “You’ve been out a few hours, it’s almost sunrise. Last few fights are wrapping up.”

Beside him, Obito hears a few mumbles and groans. Seems he’s not the only one in here. “...how...bad is it?”

“Not too bad. No concussion, somehow. Just a hell of a headache if I had to guess. Hence dosing you a bit to keep it at bay, as well as all the other blows you took. I’ll tell you what, though...you’ve got quite the goose egg. And that split is pretty nasty. I put in some stitches. Leave them alone or you’re gonna have a mess, all right?”

All the while, Obito watches her foggily. Everything seems to be moving in slow motion. The doctor, if that’s what she is, looks to be about his age, maybe a year or two younger. But given the advancement of glamour mods, he can’t be sure. Is that why her hair is white…? But no, it’s her eyebrows, too...and her lashes. Maybe she’s one of those...what do you call them…?

“I’m going to recommend a few days of bedrest, but I’m sure that will be ignored,” she sighs, Obito tuning back into her words for a moment. “You got someone who can check on you, make sure I’m not missing a head injury?”

“...no.”

Another sigh. “...well, just be careful. If you feel any sudden dizziness or headache, you might wanna call an ambulance.” And off she goes again, his brain failing to focus.

...it doesn’t look like she has many mods. Obviously a HUD, given the chip at her temple. Likely a comms mod, too - even the most vanilla modders have those. There’s something in the palms of her hands, probably a medical mod for scanning and monitoring. One side of her head is shaved, and it reveals a few glowing wires trailing back into her skull.

...she’s really hot.

As soon as he thinks it, she pauses, looking to him questioningly.

...oh shit, he said that out loud, didn’t he? Damn pain meds…!

But rather than get offended, she just snorts. “Don’t worry, I hear that kind of thing all the time. This stuff will knock you loopy, that’s for sure.” Approaching him, she lifts a palm to his own temple. “I’m going to give you my contact info in case anything pops up later so you can have someone know what’s going on. Anything out of the ordinary, let me know.”

“...uh...okay.”

“For now, I’m gonna put you under again. You’re not quite ready to head out yet.”

She adjusts his IV, and pretty soon Obito feels his body grow heavy again. But before he conks out, he checks her info in his comms mod.

Ryū Suigin...huh. Cool name.

...guess that’s one way to get a girl’s number.

A few hours later, his body wakes on its own, the pain meds starting to fizzle out. And man...he can really feel those few hours he spent in the pit. Sitting up with a grunt, he winces at the ringing in his head and the throbbing in...pretty much everywhere else. It’ll be a while before he’s ready to try all that again.

A glance shows he’s the last remaining occupant of the infirmary. The doc’s still here, right…? He’ll be a bit lost otherwise, he has no idea where he is in relation to where he’s already been.

Then he hears a jingle of keys, turning to see Ryū come up short. “Hey! About time you woke up.”

“Er, sorry.”

A hand waves. “I’m only kidding. You clearly needed the rest. Come on, I’ll show you the way out.”

“Uh...I had a locker…?”

“Yeah, we’ll head there first, don’t worry.”

It’s then Obito realizes he’s still shirtless and barefoot, flaring pink. But she doesn’t seem fazed - surely she sees plenty of others just like him. They head through an empty hallway, making a pit stop by the lockers as Obito grabs his stuff and finishes redressing.

“So...how often is this place open?”

“Three nights a week.”

“Are you here for all of them?”

“Hoping to see me again?”

He balks. “I-I just mean -?”

She laughs. “Kidding, kidding. I am. I split it with regular work shifts in a twenty-four hour clinic. I’m pretty much nocturnal thanks to it.”

“Is it...legal for you to work here?”

“None of this is legal,” she replies dryly. “But Pein keeps the cops around here paid well enough, they look the other way. So long as they get a decent cut, they don’t care. In a way, I’m the same. I don’t blab about it, I just come for the work.”

“Huh…”

“I take it you’re not much of a regular?”

“No. Just when I’m desperate.”

“Yeah, I see a lot just like you. Looking to make a quick buck to keep their heads above water. But a lot just end up battered and bruised, empty-handed. It’s a real shame, but...that’s what the city’s coming to.”

Fully dressed, he lets her lead the way despite having regained his spatial awareness. “It’s why I was here, trying to make enough to get out. Almost had it.”

“But now having to stay means draining all that away again, right?”

“Right.”

She offers him a sympathetic glance. “That’s rough, but...hardly unique. Wish that wasn’t the case. It’s really tough being a medic in this town...seeing everyone you can’t help. I’d like to get away from it too, if I’m being honest. Just...like you say, you never quite get close enough. And part of me would feel bad, knowing all the damage I’m leaving behind.”

“It wouldn’t be your fault. And you’d surely help people elsewhere.”

“Yeah. But in a way, it still feels like giving up.”

He hums, not quite understanding. He just wants the hell out of this town so he can escape everything that’s happened here. Everything that continues to happen.

They reach the front door, the bouncer long gone. It creaks on its hinges as Ryū pushes it open. “You got a ride home?”

He blinks. “Took the metro.” Is she offering him a ride…? But he’s a total stranger!

“Okay, good. Don’t want you alone in case you collapse or something.”

...oh. Maybe not. Why does he feel disappointed?

“Remember, anything happens your body’s not familiar with, you let me know immediately. Could turn into something serious. Better safe than sorry.”

“All right. What about you? Safe to get home?”

She gives him a smile, and Obito stiffens as he feels his stomach give a wobble. “Yeah, I’m fine. It’s not far, and it’s light enough now I should be okay.”

“Well, uh...if not, you can always call me.”

To his embarrassment, she snorts. “Will do. Now go get some more rest - remember, take it easy a few days if you can. Your body needs some downtime.”

“I’ll try.”

“See you around then, Obito.”

It takes him a moment to realize she called him by name, but...well, that’s likely due to his comms mod. “Er, bye.”

...well, now what? Yes he needs to head home, but...he’s back at square one yet again. And he can’t just hop back into it - Ryū is right, he needs to recuperate before he even thinks about it.

And next time, if Kisame’s there...he’ll wait for another night. As nice as it was being tended to by the doc, it’s not quite worth it.

...almost, but not quite.

He sighs, rubbing at the rear of his head. For now...back to the ol’ grind. Scrounge for work, cut back to the bare minimums, try again. And next time...he’ll meet his goal and get the hell out of here.

Maybe he can even help get Ryū out, too.

...but that’s a thought for another day.

Moar cyberpunk! Not quite as shippy, but tbh I kinda struggled with today’s between a lack of time and inspo. But I tried ;w; Poor Obito got his butt whooped. A little harder to dodge without his Sharingan xD But surely he’ll get it next time, right? Anywho, I’m tired, so that’s it for today lol - thanks for reading!

#obiryū october #uchiha obito #suigin ryū #pein #sasori #hoshigaki kisame #oil and blood [ au ]#vulgarity //#blood //

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bobcatmoran · 5 years ago

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Metsuboujinrai.stairs

Apparently I have found a niche that I enjoy writing in right now, and that niche is pre-canon, spoiler-free, slice-of-life Metsuboujinrai.net fic.

This particular one is brought to you by the ghost of my mom yelling at me and my sibs to stop jumping down the stairs.

(also available on Ao3 if you prefer to read there)

Jin had been built with the bare minimum of pre-installed modules, just basic language comprehension, motor skills, and a robust learning algorithm, because Horobi had wanted his helper (his creation, his son) (no, not his son, that was a human construct) to be as free from human influence as possible, and that included freedom from whatever garbage humans had thought would be important for Humagears to know. Jin, with Horobi’s guidance, could decide for himself what would be important, and it would not be anything designed to be servile to humans.

True, leaving Jin’s potential so open-ended also left the possibility of him learning things that were less than optimal, but in a worst-case scenario, he could always have his memory wiped and be restored from one of his frequent backups. Horobi hoped he wouldn’t have to resort for that, but it was good to have that option, just in case.

Meanwhile, Jin was developing by leaps and bounds, sometimes in unexpected ways.

Horobi wasn’t sure when this particular behavior had started. Sometime very soon after Jin first figured out how to go up and down stairs, probably. The first couple times had been very cautious, with Jin keeping a death grip on the railing, making sure both feet were secure on one step before going to the next. But like with everything else, Jin had quickly advanced, thanks to his learning protocols.

He’d figured out within days of that first excursion on the stairs that not only could he walk down the stairs, he could jump down them, flying over first the bottom stair and then, as he grew bolder, two stairs, three stairs, and then more and more. And since the building Metsuboujinrai.net had its headquarters in had once been a high-rise, there were a lot of stairs to do this on.

Horobi himself chose to walk down the stairs like a rational being, but Jin had a willingness to go outside the expected norms which bode well for his future. Besides, Horobi told himself, it was probably good for developing Jin’s motor skills.

At least, that was what Horobi told himself until one day when Jin was coming back from exploring the building’s upper floors. He could tell by the loud THUMPs he could hear coming from the stairwell that Jin was jumping down entire flights of stairs at once, interspersed only with the couple of steps needed to navigate the landings. THUMP. tmptmp THUMP. tmp tmp THUMP. tmp tmp CLANG “Waaah!” clatter clatter thunk.

That was Jin’s voice. Horobi found himself moving faster than he had in years, and in no time at all was at the landing where Jin was lying flat on his back, looking a bit dazed and confused.

“Jin!” Horobi said sharply. “What happened?”

Jin sat up and blinked at Horobi. “I fell.”

“Yes, I can see that. How did you —“ Horobi looked up the flight of stairs, at an overhanging pipe that had a blue smear on it.

Jin followed his gaze and frowned. A thin line of blue coolant was oozing out of his forehead, matching the blue on the pipe. “Oh,” he said in a small voice, and raised his hand to probe at his forehead wound, only to miss and smack himself in the face. He blinked, confused.

“Jin, what are you—“

Jin tried again to poke at his forehead, and this time his hand swiped past his head, missing it completely. He glared at his hand, frowning, then made to try again.

Horobi grabbed Jin’s hand before he hit himself in the face again. “Jin. Stop. Your proximity sensors appear to be damaged.”

Jin looked at his hand again, then back to Horobi. “You can fix it?” he asked hopefully.

“Let’s get you downstairs,” Horobi said in response. After a few false starts, he managed to help Jin up to a standing position, at which point Jin decided to start walking downstairs. He missed the first step entirely, and it was only Horobi’s Humagear strength that was able to pull him back up and keep him from falling down a second flight of stairs.

“Are we stuck here?” Jin asked anxiously. “Am I going to be broken forever?”

“You’re not going to be broken forever, don’t be ridiculous,” Horobi said. There were three flights of stairs still left between where they were and their room, where Horobi kept his tools. He looked at Jin, then back at the stairs. “Jin. Don’t move.”

“Huh?”

In one smooth motion, Horobi scooped Jin up in his arms.

Jin jerked in surprise and kicked Horobi in the leg, nearly causing Horobi to drop him.

“Hold still,” Horobi said, adjusting his grip. “And if you can, hold on around my neck.”

This was perhaps not the best suggestion, as Jin then wound up hitting Horobi in the face twice and slapped him once in the neck before he got his arms situated, draped around Horobi’s neck.

“Hold still,” Horobi repeated as Jin leaned forward, peering down the stairs dubiously. “I don’t want to drop you.”

Jin looked alarmed at this prospect and held himself absolutely rigid while Horobi carefully made his way back downstairs and then set Jin down in the wheelchair.

“Horobi, you can fix me?” Jin asked, worried.

“I should be able to,” Horobi said. He hoped he wouldn’t have to reset Jin entirely, as that would erase all the progress he had made. However, if that proved to be necessary, he’d do what needed to be done.

~~~

“Take off tt-t-t-t-t-“ Jin’s startup sound trailed off. Horobi absently wondered if it would be possible to eliminate it completely. Jin opened his eyes, focused on Horobi, and smiled.

“How do you feel, Jin?” Horobi asked.

Jin frowned, held his hands out in front of him, and tried clapping them together. Upon success, he beamed. “Horobi, I’m all fixed!”

“You are,” Horobi said, allowing himself a small smile.

Jin hopped out of the wheelchair. “Do you need my help with anything?”

“Not for now,” Horobi said.

“Okay. I’m going to go up to the roof to watch the birds,” Jin declared.

“As long as you don’t jump down the stairs on your way back.”

#bobcat writes stuff #kamen rider #kamen rider zero one #if jin cannot be a good example #he will just have to be a horrible warning

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cloudoclock · 4 years ago

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Change among other things...

Hello, to whoever is reading this and I hope you’re doing well during this time! I’ve taken time away from basically everything in the past 3 weeks and I think this is the first time I’ve properly reflected on myself since 2017. This post is another long read (when are they not), but I would appreciate it if you read it.

I consider this as an open letter to future me, hopefully, recovered from the mess I am in.

Its the 20th of June, I’ve just ordered a skipping rope and a pick ‘n’ mix box. I’m pretty tired and I don’t think I’ve had a good nights sleep in a month, but my wind-down routine is kind of building itself during such an odd time. If I’m being honest, my self-hatred is astronomical and I’ve stopped caring about my health. This week I reinstalled memento on my laptop and made a hefty to-do list, but I got 1/4 of a task finished this entire week. Tomorrow is Sunday and I’ve decided it’s time to start some real change within...

1 - My Identity

Without a doubt, The Black Lives Matter movement of this year and the strong social shift following the death of George Floyd has had an effect on everyone. If you didn’t know I am a Black Lesbian Young Woman living in the UK and the fight for my life to matter has been my whole life. I have struggled immensely to make my voice heard because one way or another, the aspects of my identity has had barriers set against me. In short, I have been feeling well and truly worthless because of the colour of my skin, but the one realisation I had was the normality surrounding that. Having discussed this with family and friends on social media, I found that we were taught to understand that the world hates us and that we found it so normal for us to just accept that we can hurt but we must do it quietly. I was very vocal on my Instagram the first 2 weeks of the current uprising and it was both empowering and scary. I have exposed too so much traumatic content and the disgusting reaction from racists had really set my mind back. In 2016, I wasn’t so involved because I was young and very confused about where my voice was relevant. I’m still trying to recover from those two weeks and remind myself that I AM important.

2 - My Academics

In the second week of my consistent posting on Instagram, I came to the conclusion that I was so far gone mentally, that there was no way I would be able to keep up with the bare minimum that I was doing. For the first time ever, I emailed my assistant head of sixth form to give me extended leave and decided that I would pour my effort into keeping up with the protests and information on the movement. While that did put stress on my shoulders, I realised that an extended leave wasn’t going to stop the mental incapacities that I have been pushing down for such a long time. 2020 was supposed to be my bounce-back year and my initial issues were that I didn’t anticipate any setbacks. Ever since GCSE’S I’ve been struggling with anxiety and self-punishment in a number of ways. Now that I’m getting older and I have so much more responsibilities, I really can’t get away with squashing down the effects of stress anymore. Today I’m attempting to face my struggles head-on and I am going to start mending myself. I really could cry sometimes, but COVID has made me realise that even if I have all the time in the world, I won’t do anything if I am not setting myself up for it mentally.

3 - A change of scenery

I haven’t really mentioned, but my mum has been in hospital since around Easter of 2019 and I’ve had to live with my sister. This meant that all through GCSE’s and up til now, I haven’t had my own space to settle, work or detach. I know that libraries and after school sessions are places that I could go to do work, but I personally find comfort being in such a personal space. Thankfully, my mum now had a new house, but the qualms that come with it are renovations and stolen time. Although I was very excited to be doing practical work and dipping my toe into interior design skills at my own home, I am now sick of going back and forth. Doing this whole thing during the peak of Coronavirus in the UK hasn’t necessarily helped and its basically been the only place I can “relax” away from home. The great news is that I will be moving in the next few weeks and I finally have control again. I’ve been drawing a scale of my room, making lists and thinking about all the stuff I have. Although I will be getting my own space, I am aware that I cannot just carry my stuff from one place to another. I’ve been really getting into sustainability and minimalism (not what is on youtube) and I know that I have to start condensing my school bulk. I do not need all of it and I know my binders are stuffed with papers that I couldn’t care less about.

WHAT NOW ?

Tomorrow is Sunday and I’ve decided that there seriously needs to be some change from within. I’ll be blogging about steps I take every few days to get closer to this, including a short video. I have mental health issues, so things like this do not come naturally to me, but I know it has to happen before I move into my new space.

If you’re feeling the same, I would appreciate your comments and interactions with this post. If you know someone who would benefit from this, please share it with them and have a discussion. We are undeniably lonely at this time because of being stuck inside for so long but please challenge yourself for yourself. I guess you could call this Ivy Showers’ 2-week Stress Shred lol.

I love you random person and I hope you have a great day/evening/night x

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vantekay · 6 years ago

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thankful for you

its (almost) officially the new year! although I am writing this post in advance, its a new year and its time for some fresh starts.

I wanted to start this new year off by making a thank you post to my mutuals, anons, and followers; starting out with my mutuals. Also this will probably be pretty long and sappy so just a warning haha.

@peachyuns was the first mutual I made on this site, we met over the dora au that plagued Twitter and freaked out over it together, although we don't talk as much anymore she still helped me kick start this blog! she sent me some tumblrs who did the hex code layouts I told her I wanted to start and I will forever be grateful for that, never forget how talented and sweet you are, I love you tam 💕.

@couture-kookie was the second mutual I made on this site and helped me a lot when it came to understanding how to make a masterlist 😂 we would send each other memes and talk about how ugly twitter is and I always laughed when we would message. You are such an amazing writer and an amazing person! I love you court 💕.

@melonkooky was the next mutual I made and I am so grateful for her as well. She helped me with this blog a lot too, mostly just me spouting ideas out and her telling me I should go for it 😂 but it was the motivation I needed to get this blog to where it is now even if it isn't too big right now. You are so sweet and funny and just an amazing person, not to mention talented at writing. I love you mina 💕.

@bangtanmssg thank god I got the balls to message you about making your masterlist for you. I'm so glad we met, and I'm so excited to be an admin for you new blog! It makes me so happy to know that you have enlisted so much trust in me and I hope you know I trust you a lot too. you're such a sweet and caring person and I hope we can grow as friends. never ever lose the light that you possess, because believe me when I say you can make anybody's day better just by being you. I love you sol 💕.

@vantaeta we met through the new blog! I was very nervous when I first messaged you about the theme of the blog but you were so nice it melted all my worries away. We clicked pretty much instantly and I'm so grateful to be working with such a funny and kind person. You are super talented and I hope you have happy days forever. I love you rae 💕.

@triviamang , you are so so so sweet and caring its so endearing and makes me happy if that makes sense haha. you have such a pure soul and I'm so glad we became mutuals. You're so talented at writing and I'm so excited to see how your account continues to grow, hopefully our friendship can grow along with it :) I love you ness 💕.

@ethertae you are absolutely lovely and I love you. we don't talk much but thats okay! seeing your posts on my dash makes me so happy. You are an absolute sweetheart and I love being mutuals with you. You are incredibly talented and such an interesting person, I hope we can grow closer this year :) I love you kina 💕 .

@namiiy I am so glad we met, you are the brightest and most positive person I have ever met. You've made my bad days just those little bit brighter and made me hopeful for the next days to come. Thank you for always being so kinda and having such a beautiful soul. I love you nam (sorry idk what to call you ah) 💕.

@taes-strawberry we only just met but! you are so amazing and incredible and just all of it. I thought our first convo would be awkward but it was so easy to talk to you and that is so amazing to me. I love how alike we are and I really hope we continue to be crackheads together. I love you rahmah 💕

to all of you I just made little messages for, please never forget that you are loved and valued. and if you ever need someone to talk to I am here :)

to my handful of anon friends:

I really do love you guys a lot, your asks never fail to make my day even if it’s something as simple as a hello. I always thought it was kind of silly when I saw other and bigger blogs posting simple asks and saying that it made their day until I actually started receiving them myself. even if you think whatever you have to say isn’t important believe me when I say it is. please never hesitate to send me an ask- anon or not- and tell me about your day, tell me something good that happened to you recently or even tell me something you just need to get off of your chest. I’m the kind of person who loves to help others, I always give advice and I always try to help to the best of my ability and knowledge so please always know that I am here for you, and if you don’t want everyone on the blog to know about what you’re going through you can always just message me privately! I promise it will always stay between us. my messages are always open for anybody and any situation :)

to my followers:

thank you guys for being here for me and enjoying the content I put out on this blog. I’ve always somewhat felt bad about myself as a content creator (though I feel like I shouldn’t even call myself that cause I do the bare minimum compared to other really good art or writing blogs but thats just me) because I don’t put out things like fics or reactions but that’s simply because I don’t feel confident in my writing abilities and I would be afraid to make assumptions about the boys personalities and just all that stupid stuff but even still, I hope you guys can always find something you like on this blog. I’m a very indecisive person who changes their mind a lot and is always wanting to learn and explore new things so this blog will probably have a wide array of things on it within the next year or so, and I hope you guys will stick with me through all and any content changes I may decide on. I have never been confident in myself as a creator but through this blog I am starting to find worth in the things I put my time and energy into, and I will always be eternally grateful for that and the only way I can think of expressing my gratitude for this is by saying thank you.

I haven’t been on tumblr long- if I remember correctly I made a blog in june maybe but didn’t start posting my own content until around august but I can’t remember- but in the short amount of time I have been, I have made incredible friends and laughed so so so much. I haven’t really talked about it openly on this site, but this year was probably one of the hardest, longest and most mentally draining I have ever had. Life was rough, I went through a lot of hardships and found out more about my mental health issues and how to start coping with them, I moved from my childhood neighborhood and started a whole new life at the peak of my highschool career and faced (and still facing) a lot of anxiety issues because of it but thanks to this blog and the amazing people I have met through it and the people I follow I have been able to end this year with a smile on my face, high hopes for the future, and dreams I feel I can actually accomplish. I said it before and I’ll say it again although I feel as if it doesn’t really express how thankful I am, thank you all for everything. My experience on this site has been nothing short of joyful and I hope it stays that way for a long time. I hope you guys, no matter if 2018 was a good or bad year for you, can also go into this new year with a little bit of hope and happiness for yourself and whatever you wish to achieve in the future. thank you for an amazing end to this year :)

#wow i got really sappy at the end but who cares #i really poured my whole heart into this because i really wanted to relay how much i love all of you #and i still feel like i didn't express it properly but i've never really been good at showing my appreciation through words only #if there is anything i would want you guys to take from this long ass post is that i am seriously thankful #for everything this blog has brought me #my friends and mutuals #my anons and all of my followers #the confidence to explore into subjects and make things i probably wouldn't have otherwise #just thank you #here's to an amazing 2019 #kayakookie #get to know me #personal #a thank you post #happy new year

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larissaloki · 6 years ago

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Abusive relationships,

Yes another one of these, ths my own personal experiences with a relationship that ended nearly two years ago. I’ve only just gotten the confidence too share as to this day, my son is still negatively affected by the aftermath.

Thankfully my relationship only lasted 2 months before i wised up and kicked his ass to the curb. These kinds of relationships can happen to anyone, not just women, so this post will hopefully serve as a warning for everyone on what to look out for.

Before i continue i will warn that content can be sensitive for some (obviously) but also mentions of a bdsm esk lifestyle. Not overly explitic but it’s still there. Also I am just writng out as it pops into my head so bare with my ramblings as this hard to get out.

To start off with, I am a single mum living in a flat and at the time i was working part time (18 hours a week a the time) with a 2 year old toddler and 22 years old. Despite having a son I was lonely a lot as a lot of friends stopped contacting me and my weekly dnd group was disbanded so my human interactions where limited and lets just say retail doesn’t equate to good human contact.

Fast forward because you don’t want to hear about my struggles wth dating as humourous it is. I met (lets call him D) D and as always, things see well- D was sweet and charmng and was seemingly ok with me having a toddler. Brillant! i thought i had hit gold with this guy.

This how abusers are, they make themselves seem to sweet and amazing that you become blind any faults. You know that saying “I’m not like those guys, not all guys are like that” D used these words when describng himself and in conversations. in my experience with him and a few other people, people that have used these sentences are often exactly like the ones they say they aren’t.

So far everything he’s done is present a pleasent package that sound and looks trustworthy and a nice guy. Making the bad traits come across as just mere off days. I was so blinded by the fact that he seemed to sweet and nice that i didn’t realise exactly what he was doin for a mere two months. thankfully talks at schools and thing’s I’ve read online and family members helped me clock onto his games.

ALWAYS LISTEN TO FAMILY! i say this because they noticed within weeks what he was doing and were trying to find ways to warn me. He seemed hesitant to meet my family after a month of dating which for my family is odd, as we are a pretty tight family more or less at the times. My mum met everyones partners quickly as we all visited each other a lot at the time.

when she did meet him a month into dating and was talking to him, D admitted that he would read my phone over my shoulder ALL.THE.TIME. This is not good, nothing i thought was private actually was. But his own phone was protected like it was the holy grail of all holy grails. I never actually asked to see his phone but it’s somethin i noticed after we broke up that he would always hide the screen from anyone in the room. He would try and create arguments over anything with my mu and sister when they were at my home while i was working, watching over my son. At this pont i wasn’t still comfortable enough for D to be along with my son.

When i then got home, my mum and sister would leave quickly unable to stand being in D’s presence. this made me think they simply just didn’t like him, so when it annoyed me, D would jump onto my rants and feed them. Make my anger at my mum and sister worse by telling white lies, basically fanning the flames. People, if your partner does this- take a step back and wonder why.

D was purposefully driving wedges between me and my family and later my best friend by complaining about each and trying to get me to join his point of view. Tryng to get me to view them as hinderences rather than support. Driving me to focus on him completely and not them. Do not let anyone destroy your family ties, especially ones with your closest family.

then theres the other little things, like comlaining how i wash my hair and which products i use saying i was damaging myself. everything i used was of good value and methods professional hairdressers adviced me to use. But apparently a guy who doesn’t even condition and had short balding hair had better knowledge then me. this is another form of control, trying to tell me how to do things. same with cooking, I’m not a bad cook i can make somegood meals but he insisted on cooking saying he’s amazing at cooking. He would often put in way to much garlic and onion making the meals he made full of to much flavour and would get upset when my poor 2 year old wouldn’t eat or I wouldnt. Even when i told him not to put so much he would snap saying he knew what he was doing.

Then theres the guilt tripping and telling me how to raise my child. A person who has no children was apparently more knowledgable than me who read articles and books and have a mother who’s had 4 kids herself. When out and about he would get annoyed when my 2 year old had a tantrum and play up.

saying that my son was being a disrespectful shit to me and would publically shame me for ignoring or trying to appease my son depending on what the tantrum was over. RED FLAG! A 2 year old cannot be disrespectful, my son struggles with speech to this day due to D demanding my son uses his words and not cries to display hs wants. D’s view was that kids should be perfectly articulate at 2 year old and understand all these adult social cue’s.

Then at bed times, D hated that i cuddled my son till he slept and that my son came intomy bed halfwa through the night for comfort reasons. So he demanded i changed the night routine to involve maths for my 2 year old and a story while my son was in bed then just walkout of the bedroom. leave my son alone regardle if he was upset, my heart broke at my sons cries as D scared my son back into bed and kept leaving him. Ignoring my concerns with this method saying it wht he read online and eventually my son will sleep. worst two weeks of my life until i broke the cycle as I just couldn’t allow it to continue.

i was fas growing afraid of D at this point. One night he flipped his shit as i turned over in bed declaring it was to hot to share the bed due to my memory foam topper and that he runs hot anyway. he threw his phone at the wall over it. Another time he yelled at me for not trying a certain stores jellybabies when i said. didn’t like jellybabies, saying that i was being stubborn as this stores jelly babies were delicious. i promised to try them later- when he was out i threw them away and just told him that yes they were ok.

He mocked the games i played and liked, i love final fantasy and rpg games a lot. i find them entertaining but he mocked them saying i should play more fighter interactve games. he made me play one that i just found dull and did not like at all.

After this he was also scaring me with his bsm ettiquette, anyone in bdsm know that you respected your partners limits and repected their safe word and what they tell you the are ok with and what they aren’t ok with. A few times he violated this. He liked to give pain and i liked mostly pleasure and rope play. A hard limit for me was belts- i was not ok with them at all, he used one one session and i had to safe word out quickly which he found fuckng funny. This is not ok. Another time we wanted to try a new pose with ropes and the position i was in was making me feel ill half way through beng tied, so i safe worded and asked me to get me out as i felt sick.

If your partner is in rope and feels unwell or safe words out- get them out fast! Cut the ropes if you need to you can always buy more ffs. But D didn’t, he sighed and slowly untied me. No matter how much i begged him to hurry up he went at his own slow ass pace. Do not do this as something someone once found enjoyable suddenly no longer is.

And lastly, do not snap at your sub if your rope plans dont go to plan. Do not make them feel bad if something doent work. I was snapped at when ties he was tryng for the first time weren’t working, nothing i could help.

towards the end he told my mum when they again where at mine alone that he would be moving in in 6 months time so she had best get usedto him being here. we had only been dating at this point for less than 2 months. I have a rule that i don’t move in with someone unles i’ve been with them for more than 2-3 years at the minimum.

8 MONTHS IS TO SOON.

the event that pretty much spelled the end for this? was my sons bday and D turned up after eveyone had gone which fair enough, lots of kids wasn’t his thing. I had some alcohol and energy drinks as well, he offere weed which i had had before unaware of him slipping me ectasy as well.

All of these things did not respond well to me, hours later in the next morning as i had this 9 pm the night before, by 10 am D left to go home and i was dealing with what i think was the come down. Badly. Ikept having panic attack and was not right for two days after. My heart kept going dangerous speeds that i had to call my mum and sister for help as D said he woudlnt come over as i wa just beng silly and that it would pass. I was worried for my son if something was to happen to me over it.

After this i talked to my mum and the truth was coming out in small bits. I stupidly was on the fence about what my mum was telling me as i was reliant on D’s affection and we i went to get a coil (birth control device) and D hated that i was going with my mum and that i had been talking to her.

He got defensive and was telling me i didnt need my mum in my life. His mum wa dead and he was doing well, so i didn’t need mine in hs eyes. This is maniplative as fuck and he was an asshole trying to use this. By thi point. Was wising up to his tactics and games with teh help of my mum exposing what he hadsaid to her and i dumped him.

He tried to then play around with getting his things back and tried to arrange it when i would be alone. Never meet an ex like this alone people i beg you, i got my mums bf to wait for him instead,and i prepacked his stuff so he couldnt possibly steal anything. When he saw my mums bf his aggressive pose he had at the door dropped away. He was suddenly polite and cordial and left with little fuss once received his things. Never meet an abusive ex alone.

After he left my life i found out he had gotten onto my computer that was a christmas gift and had wrecked it beyond usable it quickly broke and i lost everything on it. All my musc and pictures and works. My computer wa my escap and coping mechanism for depression and anxiety. Same as my music. Im still struggling in life around men due to this and my son is strugling to learn to speak still.

Please be careful and never cut out people from your life because a partner says so. Friends and family mean more than someone you just met.

#larissaloki #abusive relationships #life struggles

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