#i am proud that though the tone has shifted there is still some of that peace time dynamic between Charlie and Robert

[breitzbachbea]

But rereading my old work today while doubling down on a tonal shift really shows me that I am on a good path on writing the story I want. And that it's a very different story from the one I used to write.

It is so obvious in the old scene that I wanted Robert to be cool and in control. Upset but unaffected by his subordinate's fuckups. Lone wolf works best. Strikes terror into the hearts of all, because of course he does. And he is so belittling. Oh my god he is so belittling - in much the same way he is in the new draft in the scene with Harry and Michele, but he is so much more verbose in the old one. He is like a haughty bond villain and a 80s macho action hero rolled into one. He is supposed to be cool but also very clearly not the brightest in his tiny interaction with Tahir. It's so grotesque.

And Charlie was so cool, too! Kept a calm head whilst being insulted and threatened - and so concerned with his ego still. Being patronizing to Robert, being upset by his remarks about how he is too weak to save his boss and still so calm. It is so blatantly clear that his rage was supposed to be righteous. That he was supposed to be our cool and calm hero, the quippy one who of course gets the upper hand and will right the wrongs committed against him.

Such a farce.

And now, in the new version, Robert's angry. Of course, still belittling, still thinking he's got this, but much more aggressive and less maudlin on. And very down to earth when it comes to trying to set the rules. It's not about him being cool. It is about him being ruthless and pissed-off and a little bit too much into the entire thing. He is supposed to be respectable, but at the same time frightening in his ruthlessness. In his eagerness to deal out punishment. He's not here to taunt the Irish - he is here to bash their face in and only taunt them when it's convenient. Violence first, domination second.

And Charlie? Charlie too isn't cool. He, too, is frightening. Like Paddy. Because you watch these two guys, who you've seen joking for the past six chapters, be dorks and insecure and caring for each other, go deadly serious. They're not that different from Robert and Arthur, are they now? Sure, the English started it. Sure, they only want Harry back. But does that justify the means? Are they the good guys when they very callously hold someone hostage and are ready to kill him, in cold blood? No hemming and hawwing about it. No 'Don't make me do this' at Robert in the sense of 'Don't make me be so inhuman.' No, it's only 'Don't make me do this' in the sense of 'Don't make me kill one of your resources. Don't make me hurt you.' No value ascribed to human life aside from Harry's.

No one's cool in this. Good.

And here is the end of the vomit draft that made me think about this:

There. Around a corner. He could hear them. Whispering amongst themselves. He whistled. "Jig's up," he said. "If you come out with hands raised, I might /not/ just shoot you in the face." "I could say the same." God that was Higgins. For fuck's sake. "You and what army? Show your fucking face if you're a man!" "God, schoolyard taunts we're doing? Robert, be sensible once in your life. We've got one of yours, so you are gonna tell me where you have one of ours." "Anyone can talk a big game about that," Robert answered. "Well, I've got two guns and your cub got none," O'Neill said. "So you will tell me where's Harry and no one gets hurt." "You're not the one who makes demands here. Taylor!" What followed and thank God for his calm at the trigger finger, was Edward being pushed in the hallway, hands up. Looking deeply, deeply ashamed as was appropriate. "Great. Now I've got mine back." Robert grinned. "And what about yours?" Before Taylor, could take a step, he was held back by O'Neill, who was 'wise' enough to step into frame with Higgins. God, him holding the gun was adorable. "Where's Harry?" O'Neill asked again. "One against the other," Higgins reminded him. Robert rolled his eyes. "I think you're playing your cards a little wrong. Your boss against a henchman?" "So you don't care if we blow his brain out?" O'Neill asked, matter-of-factly and very, very unempathetic. Oh dear lord, he could see the fear in Taylor's eyes. "I didn't say that," Robert said. "I'm just saying that if that's your gambit, it's a terrible one." "It's worth a try." O'Neill said and unlocked his gun.

[leafostuff]

Blind sexDate[Ft. StayC's Isa & Fromis_9's Chaeyoung]

Tags: none, its a threesome

Word count: 6.5K

Author's: that...took a while, started to write this in 26th of August so i did take a very long time to finally have this out but here it is: my October upload

I really want to thank @prael @capslocked @octoberautumnbox and many others from the discord for helping me with stuff I wasn't sure about, i am really proud of that fic and i hope everyone else will enjoy reading it as much as i had fun writing it.

=================================

She sounds pretty.

It's the lilt of her voice, how it does a cute thing where she almost, but not quite rolls her r's and chews on her consonants. A voice that sounds like it belongs to someone small. Someone, you know - conventionally attractive. 

Four minutes, fifty-five seconds. And that's pretty much all she has going for her.

"Let me tell you about my friend's vacation," she starts again, and you've lost track of if this is the same friend, same vacation - or a new one. They're all blending together.

you always thought the ‘blind’ was a figure of speech. it's fucking pitch black, you wonder if compared to the other guys you were underdressed,, you did see one guy with a blazer and jeans your paycheck couldn't even pay a quarter of it.

But back to the girl, her non stop ramble is now a background noise in your ears, not even sure you can recall who is the ex of who and which boyfriend cheated on her best friend with her sister. Your brain can't keep up.

but regardless, the first round is thankfully over, say your goodbyes to the first girl and stay in your chair.

you consider leaving right now to try and not get disappointed even more, however…

“Hey” The next girl is already here, it will be rude of you to leave just like that.

“Hi I am Jake” you respond

“Nice to meet you, my name is Chaeyoung, but you can just call me Isa” she responds. The first impression you gather is her voice, Airy and sweet like honey

“Huh, it's a pretty name, First time I ever heard a name like that ” you can hear a quiet giggle to your compliment.

“Thank you, I am actually from South Korea, I came here to LA for summer vacation”.

“That's cool, I actually live in LA myself” You lean back in your chair, getting comfortable around the mysterious girl.

“Oh wow” you could hear the excitement in her voice. ���Do you have any places you can recommend to me?” she asked.

“Uhh…well, Here in Santa Monica Pier it's always fun for tourists too walk around here, I assume you have already been at the walk of fame in Hollywood and Universal studios” you answer. 

“I have to say though: this whole dating in the darkness is very fun, isn't it?” Fun is certainly one way to describe this, the other way is a gamble but for the sake of keeping the conversation fun you agree with her.

“Its like all of my other senses are much stronger, like some superhero…” Isa giggles, it's addictive that you can't help but join, with the sound of small shifts on her chair you can imagine how she is doing some battle poses.

“Hehe thats truuu-” quickly shut your mouth, that voice crack was the last thing you needed on a date but fortunately for you, Chaeyoung sounds a short laugh.

“Nervous?”

“hehe…Yeah, been a while since i was on a date” you explain, recalling your experiences with your failed relationships, it still stings a bit.

"Let's play a game then." There's some faint sounds of movement—a ruffling of clothes and the creak of a chair. She sounds clearer now, her voice doesn't have to carry as far and she's far more pronounced. 

"Help you relax a bit: What do you think I look like?” she asks, her tone is playful and happy as if she is the host of a game show, This second date goes better than you expected.

“Hmm…let me think…I am gonna guess that you have…black hair…is it long?” Your first answer is hesitant.

“Not telling~” she responds with a playful note. “How about my clothes?”

There is curiosity in her voice, excited to see how you will respond, you could hear her fingers tapping on the table, remembering to not waste time. “Well, you sound like a sweet girl, like the simple things in life, so…” you pause, trying to imagine her in many different styles and clothes that could fit her in the 5 or so minutes that you got to know her. 

Remember who is wasting who’s time so better lock in your answer now and say.

“My guess is… a summer dress?” quite the answer you give out, and the way you say it like you are one answer away from receiving the grand prize of Chaeyoung's game show, but back to her answer…

“You think it's something I will wear?” Isa questions, her tone sounds like she is also imagining herself wearing one.

“Yeah, it looks cute,” you respond. “And its not too crazy to wear on a first date” you add, hearing a small giggle after.

“Ok, i will keep it mind next time we meet”

“Will there be a next time?”

“I don't see why not”

You're happy, a bit surprised it didn't take you that much time to find someone in this speed blind dating thing, expecting more or less what happened the prior date but here you are.

“It's your turn to guess now?” You ask, already feeling comfortable around her.

“Ok ok, so i-”

But sadly as if life has decided to cockblock you, the time is over as an alarm can be heard as a signal to switch, you can only look at the general direction of where Chaeyoung could be and sigh, showing your disappointment.

“We can always meet later if you want” you can feel her wanting to continue her date with you but every good thing must come to an end

“Of course, it was very fun talking with you”

“Same to you as well” you can hear Isa lift herself from the chair. “See ya” she added in a happy tone before leaving you at the lone table. You can't help yourself but smile.

“Maybe it won't be as bad as i thought” 

=================================

Time goes on and other girls come and go, however, you can't help but wonder more about Isa, what makes her laugh? What does she like to do on the weekends? what are her dreams, aspirations and everything in between, the curiosity killed you inside.

more importantly: you wonder what she looks like, outside of the darkness you were both in. If it wasn't clear enough: you are interested in her, they all say love at first sight doesn't exist but here you are, letting your mind fill with the idea of her.

You are set in stone of your choice, and there is no chance you will change yo-.

“uhm Hello? Are you there?”

Zoom out of your thoughts, focus on the husky, feminine voice coming from what seems to be in front of you. How long has she been sitting there? How long have you been daydreaming?? Thank god it's dark so quickly compose yourself before it can get awkward and start talking.

“Oh hi, im jake. Nice to meet you”

“Uhh, nice to meet you too,” she responds, it's not hard to hear the shakiness and in her voice showing her nervousness to you, the small shifting sounds in her chair. “I am Chaeyoung”.

You're caught off guard, the world is smaller than it seems with you meeting two girls Sharing the same name, “isn't that a Korean name?”

“Uh, yeah, how…how did you know?”.

“I actually met another girl named Chaeyoung before in here” you say, it would be funny if they actually knew each other but the chances are slim. It's not like you know every Jake either.

“Oh, that's cool…” she mumbled, sounding as if she was disappointed to hear it

The silence is now getting awkward, you both wait for the other one to start breaking more of the ice and it seems that she was the patient one between both of you since you are the first to give up and get the conversation going.

“So what do you do? For a living I mean” you are met with unintelligible mumbles as an answer, a bit unsure you ask her again to clarify.

“I…model, it's not super serious though” Chaeyoung quietly answered, you could hear light, quick taps beneath the table.

“Oh wow, I bet you are like, really pretty if you do modeling” you dont know how much confidence you got to say such a thing but you are already mentally face-palming yourself. You could feel yourself gaining some creep points in her mind over this comment.

“Oh, uhh Thank…thank you very much” Chaeyoung stutters, her tone jumps an Octave, sounding a small giggle. You can only sigh in relief that you didn't weird Chaeyoung out.

“I'm in LA for a photoshoot, since we finished earlier than expected i got a couple of days free to hang out around the city” she explains, still sounding nervous but much more at ease than before. “So what do you do for work, Jake?” She returns your question to you.

“Ah, I just work as a barista in a small café, nothing much.” you manage to say in a montone, unpleasant tone. You are a bit embarrassed that you have the chance to blind date a model while you are the equivalent of nothing compared to her

“It’s-It’s okay, i'm honestly not some super popular model” her words quickly come out of her mouth. “Besides, I can imagine being a barista is much more relaxing of a job, not trying to get every deal possible just not to lose money.”

“I mean, it doesn't pay much but it is less stressful,” you respond. You can hear two glasses of water placed on the wooden table with one of them handed to you, together with a straw since you could imagine how drinking from the cup would end like.

“So, what does a model like you” you stop, taking a small sip of the water to refresh yourself. -doing in blind speed dating?”

“It's just easier for me, usually when i go on dates I get nervous, and my eyes travel too much, and I kind of panic…” Chaeyoung explains, lightly giggling at her own experience before taking a sip from her water glass as well .“So I thought doing something like this could help me feel uhh you know… less stressed.”

“Hey, you do you, as long as you are comfortable.”

“Yeah, that's true,” Chaeyoung replied. Her voice turns less shaky and more clear than at the start of your date, it was clear that both of you had fun on that date.

So much so that in fact, you both were caught off guard by the timer for your date finishes and the lights suddenly turn up again, revealing the girl in front of you for the first time.

Right off the bat; you understand why Chaeyoung is a model.

A heart-shaped face and a delicate, soft jawline paired with brown, expressive eyes and Black shoulder-length silky hair that is enough to make every man look at her in awe, including you. Even her clothing is model-like with a Chic, stylish black off shoulder shirt and Denim jeans that show her features exceptionally well. By the way, you should say something before you will sound weird

“Oh, nice to meet you” stand up from your chair and raise your hand to a handshake.

“Nice to meet you too, i gotta say that i didn't see that coming at all” Chaeyoung cheerfully responded while shaking your hand, sounding a sincere chuckle while her eyes joined her wide smile.

“Same, i almost had a heart attack” you jokingly say while you get your jacket off your chair. “Say, wanna go outside? Maybe get to know each other more” she only nods, taking her jacket from her chair as you both head out from your table toward the exit of the bar.

=================================

“Oh, here you are” you recognize this airy voice, taken aback as you look at where the voice comes from.

Though you were right about the black hair, you did miss the mark on Isa's outfit. Short crop top and tight jeans, that cute summer dress was nowhere to be found.

Her cat-like eyes lock onto yours, she flashes a sweet yet devilish grin before heading toward the two of you.

“Gotta say Jake: i had a feeling you were good looking, but i didn't expect you to be this good looking” Isa compliments you, giving a small wink then her gaze turns to Chaeyoung with curious eyes.

“Your friend?” She asks you,

“Hi, I'm Chaeyoung, nice to meet you” She says, reaching her hand forward as Isa is suddenly taken by surprise.

“Um, I am Chaeyoung”

“That's my name”

“That's… also my name"

“What's your family name?” Chaeyoung asks, now intrigued by the other girl.

“Its Lee” Isa responds, now it's Chaeyoung’s turn to be surprised.

“that's also…my family name”

During this, you are just looking at what's happening in front of you. As much as you are curious, you are also worried since it seems like both were interested in dating you after this.

However, one quick look at each other, another one to look at you and then looking back at each other, the two girls started laughing, both covering their mouths to muffle the volume. You can only sigh in relief that it turned for the better.

Eventually they both let their laughs out as Chaeyoung speaks. “It's quite a surprise to meet another Korean here in LA”.

“Please, call me Isa, and same, nice to meet you too Chaeyoung” she replies, chuckling lightly as the other girl can't help but start chuckling as well before they reach their hand for a small handshake

“Well that went better than expected” you manage to slip in the conversation reminding them that you are still here.

“You also met him on Speed dating?”

Chaeyoung nods. “We were the last round before the lights turned on, you two met earlier?” 

“Yeah, the other guys were kind of boring but he was a breath of fresh air” Isa explains, turning her gaze to you and winking at you. You could swear your heart skipped a beat.

At this moment one question rose in your mind and as you looked at the two girls with an awkward look, they both realized what you were as they sounded a small ‘oh’ before looking at each other again. As much as you didn't want you, you had to choose one of the girls to be your date.

“You can go out with Jake” Chaeyoung quickly says, smiling sweetly and lightly pushing Isa toward you, both you and the cat-like girl are surprised.

“Chaeyoung? Are you sure?” you question, why was she suddenly

“Yeah yeah, I'm sure, You two met before I met you, so she should have you” she explains, her eyes joining her smile. You did feel bad about leaving Chaeyoung out however an idea was about to be suggested that would fix that problem.

Then again, you aren't sure if this was an actual fix…

“I dont mind you dating us both”

What

“What?” Chaeyoung raises her eyebrow in surprise at Isa, the one who suggested that idea out of the blue, you were not far behind Chaeyoung in your reaction as well, being completely confusement.

“I mean dont see why not, I like you, you like me, she likes you, You like her. I am bad at math but it doesn’t seem too hard to solve this problem” Isa explains looking at you, You and Chaeyoung swap looks, you can feel your cheek heating up and changing to a pink shade.

“I mean uh…as long as Jake doesn't mind, it's okay by me” Chaeyoung stutters, Isa likes this response as she smiles at her new friend, her arm goes around Chaeyoung’s shoulder.

“Im sure it will be great, So what do you say Jake?~” Isa’s voice is sweet when she looks at you with her warm smile, Chaeyoung’s smile is also there but is much more timid.

The choice was now in your field, you didn't expect there to be a third option in the first place and all in honesty: That idea seemed like trouble. But when Isa looks at you with her cheerful smile, standing like that next to Chaeyoung with a smile that makes them look together like the next cover page for a magazine, it's hard to say no to them.

And deep inside: you don't want to.

“Sure, if that's what you two want” you respond, it seems they are both satisfied with your choice as they look at each other with warm smiles. 

you honestly didn't mind this idea as long as they were both happy, besides, what's the worst that could happen?.

=================================

“Dang it!” Isa yelled, almost managing to block your hit of the air puck but it ended up inside the goal because of the unusual angle you shot it. “So…a model, that sounds like a cool job to have, no?” She directed her question to Chaeyoung, giving her the mallet she was holding.

“Huh? Oh yeah, it's fine, I'm not getting many offers compared to the average model” Chaeyoung answers, half focused on aiming the first shot before quickly shooting it at your goal. “but it's good money”

You reflect the puck. “I mean, if it's something you like to D-” Stop what you are saying and block the surprise attack Chaeyoung does, look at her cheeky smile as you know she almost scored“-Do, you can do almost everything you want” you continue what you were saying as you send the puck toward her direction.

“Yeah that's true” Chaeyoung smiled toward you, then quickly smacking the puck directly into your goal, getting herself a point. “So, what do you two work at?”.

“A Gaming cafe, Came to LA as a summer trip with my friends after exams” Isa replied, taking your mallet and shooting the puck from her side.

“Damn, compared to you two my job sounds boring as fuck, You are a model, you work at a gaming cafe, and i am just a barista at a cafe” you jokingly roast yourself, eyes moving from side to side with each side the puck goes to.

“Huh, not my first thought when it comes to your job,” Isa says, a bit surprised. “But…i imagine you look quite handsome in barista clothes” And there she goes again, with that flirty smile and curious eyes that you swear you fall in love deeper than you were.

Now look at Chaeyoung, not as flirty as the other girl but it seems that, unlike the first time you met her, she is much less tense, more at ease around the two of you, genuinely enjoying her time.

After the air hockey game is over and a quick stop to get some of LA’s finest street food (which the two seemed to really enjoy for their first time), the three of you are now sitting on the boardwalk, the sound of the waves going back and forth is singing in your ears, however now they topic of the conversation seems to get more…laid-back.

“So let me get this straight: your best friend is Korean, right?” You ask, Isa responds with a small nod

“And she has a British accent?” Chaeyoung continues your question, getting Isa to laugh again.

“Yes-” she stops talking to take a sip from the water bottle in her. “Fully Korean, with a British accent, one time my friends and I were listening to a song called ‘Run 2 U’ by some random group, and she said the name of the song as” she suddenly released a small chuckle unable to keep her cool.

“As what? Just tell us” Chaeyoung comments, half smiling as if she already knows the answer, Isa meanwhile slowly downed the water so she wouldn't choke before finally saying after a deep breath.

“Raeun tew yew…” The mock accent that Isa adds gives the punch line more of an oomph as you all start laughing, small tears of joy leave your eyes as you slam the wooden deck, meanwhile, Chaeyoung covers her mouth to hide the amount of blush she has on her cheeks from how hard she is laughing.

“Oh that was good, I didn't expect to laugh this hard” You exclaim, taking a deep breath as you now go back to staring at the waves. “Honestly…this date has been really fun, with both of you,”.

“Like-wise, we both enjoyed your company as well” Chaeyoung replies, sweetly giggling while her left fingers go to her hair, pushing it aside with the side effect of getting your cheeks slightly pink, luckily the weak lighting make it hard to see for the two girls.

“Same for me” Isa chimed in with a smile. “Say, want to continue it somewhere else? It's getting late” she prompts as a soft yawn escapes her mouth.

“Huh? Okay, if you want my place is close” you say, standing up from the deck as you lend your hand to help her stand up.

“That's great” She says as her gaze turns to the other girl. “You're coming as well Chae?”.

Chaeyoung suddenly tensed up in surprise. “Chae?” she asks, to which Isa just giggles at her rather cute reaction.

“Yeah, it's a cute nickname, you don't mind it, right?” Her tone is sweet when she asks her friend with a warm smile, that way when Chaeyoung smiles, she mirrors the same warmth with her own smile.

“Of course i don't” she responds, standing up and lightly stretching to gain some sense of her body, “So? Lets go”

“Great” Isa comments before turning her gaze to you. “Jake, mind leading the way?”

=================================

The ride home is quieter than usual.

Not that there were not any talks inside the cab you decided to take to your place, but most of the talking was done by the two girls, sitting on each side of you, only speaking in a language you can only assume is korean.

It’s a simple loop: Isa says something, they look at you (which you could only smile awkwardly at their happy gazes), Chaeyoung answers with something else and they start giggling, sneaking another look at you and then it goes back again.

Eventually the taxi stops, leaving you right in front of your apartment complex. “Hmm, it really is close to the pier” Isa commented, easy for her to say when the entire bus ride has been ten minutes but for you it felt like an eternity.

As you scale the stairs up to your floor and walk to your apartment, you manage to fish the keys to your apartment out of your jeans pockets and open the door.

“Well here we are,” you say, getting inside and turning the lights on, revealing the living room, a couple boxes of instant-noodles on the table, the tv is on with a random news channel. “As you can see, it's not that big but its co-”

As you turn around to look at the two girls, your mouth opens wide in shock.

In front of you is Isa, head tilted slightly to the side as her lips close the distance with Chaeyoung’s. Her hands are not left idle as they both smoothly travel across the older’s back, feeling every inch of her partner’s body.

Meanwhile Chaeyoung's eyes are wide open and her body froze, surprised by the sudden act of Isa. It's not long until she as well eases up into the kiss, gently closing her eyes and putting her hands on the younger’s hips, you can hear how tongues slowly starts getting into the mix as the two girls vocalise small hums and whimpers. Eventually the torture comes to an end as their lips part from eachother but not their hands

“That… was your plan in the…end?” Chaeyoung asks in between pants, trying to collect air to aid surprise

“Of course, and besides…” Isa answers, turning her head enough to get her eyes on you, more specifically a bit down from your eyes. “It seems like he enjoys the show”.

Look down at the visible tent that is forming inside your pants and your hand that is slowly stroking itself to the beautiful yet unholy sight in front of you, another look into their eyes and you can see the arousement both girls share at your own prize.

“Come behind her jake, she feels divine” Isa elongates the last word-just the right way to get you Following her prompt, walking toward the two girls and getting behind Chaeyoung, your hands wrap around her midriff and your lips find themselves on the back of her neck causing her to quietly gasp.

With each second that your threeway makeout session was passing you could feel your pants getting tighter and your lust growing larger, enough that in a very bold move you let your palm find Isa’s right buttcock, giving it a gentle squeeze that makes her release a soft moan and take a look at you with a slutty smirk.

“You sneaky motherfucker” she playfully said, getting one of her hands off Chaeyoung's hips and wrapping it around your length. “You're hard already” she exclaims, leaving the two of you standing in front of her, wanting more from her, and from each other.

“I cant wait any longer~” Isa breathily says, giving you two a playful wink before disappearing into your bedroom. As lust quickly takes over your body you grab Chaeyoung by the hips and pull her into a kiss, and by how Chaeyoung quickly reciprocates the kiss and doesn't pull away, you can tell she wants it too.

You don't have time to process the texture of Chaeyoung lips, or how her long, soft legs are wrapped around your waist. Your only goal is to get the two of you into the bedroom, where Isa sits on your king sized bed with hungry eyes, licking her lips in anticipation. 

You let Chaeyoung get on your bed as you quickly join the two girls while tossing your shirt off to the side of the bed letting the two girls marvel at your naked chest.

“Fuck” Chaeyoung mouthed.

“Told you he was hot” Isa adds, scooting herself in front of you to get a hold of your chest before leaning in for a quick peck on your lips. “You don't mind undressing yourself, do you? me and Chae here have a show we need to give you” No answer was needed besides a nod as you went to the edge of your bed, letting the two girls begin.

It starts with kissing, slow yet sensual with Isa taking the lead by Straddling Chaeyoung's lap while one of her hands begins to glide across Chaeyoung's curves, ending at her left breast. “Fuck unnie, the things i will do to have a body like yours”.

Chaeyoung elicits a muffled moan to the soft grope Isa gives her, eyes completely shut and her and head looking up to let the pleasure take over. Soon Isa begins moving her hands all around her body, giving every inch of skin attention until eventually she stops one hand on the hem of Chaeyoung's shirt, the other supporting her from behind.

“You don't mind letting me take it off, right?” A quick nod of approval from the older one and Isa begins to slowly pull it up, moving to the right to let you see how slowly but surely more skin is revealed until finally the shirt is completely above her head giving you a clear view of Chaeyoung's black, lacy bra.

During all of this you are hard as a rock, can't take your eyes off from the two girls in front of you, even while you attempt to zip your jeans and rid them off your legs leaving you only in your briefs. You could swear you saw Isa lick her lips at the first sights of your briefs.

“Can I take yours too?” Chaeyoung's question is needy, eyes showing every sign of want to her Partner, hands are not left idle either with both of them resting on the upper part of Isa’s midriff, slightly below her two mounds.

“Of course, Unnie” she responds, leaning her body back and relaxing herself to let the older begin a strip tease of her own, every second that passes raises the sexual tension between them to a new level.

Unlike Chaeyoung, Isa’s crop top is not as loose compared to her black shirt, revealing the younger's breasts, covered with a crimson colored undergarments of her own with nipples taut from the arousal.

“Much better” Isa sighs in relief, feeling lighter without her crop top that is now thrown somewhere to the floor as once again she looks at you with a soft gaze however her mouth is anything but, painted with a sultry smile that can only speak trouble, finally with a breathy voice she playfully asks

“You're coming, Jake?”

The way Isa says your name, it's enough to let your primal instincts take over you, every red light is now turned green as you quickly pull Isa from behind into your lap, feeling her naked skin in your palms, right hand rests on her breast while the left hand goes to her thigh, rubbing and squeezing it to your heart's content.

“Oh god, yessss” Isa hisses the last word, it was clear that she enjoys every second of this, enough so that she doesnt pull away but instead leans in, meeting you in a torrid, messy makeout session, you two don't notice how Chaeyoung has already got rid of her whole bottom, only with her bra on with fingers already inside her pussy, definitely enjoying the view.

“Don't just stand there Chae, join us” This might be the most confident thing you have said this entire evening but it sure works on her since Chaeyoung now sits in front of Isa, palms massaging her clothed thighs, giving you a free hand to grope Isa’s other breast.

Those are not the same girls you met a couple of hours ago during that blind date, any semblance of innocence and fluff was left outside the door, now replaced with Lust and it's oh so clear with how Chaeyoung's eyes get aroused with each button she pops out of Isa jeans until eventually she finds her undergarment, same color as her bra with a wet spot in the middle.

Knowing what Chaeyoung was doing, Isa takes her hands into her denim jeans, lowering both the jeans and her own panties before throwing them away, leaving her creamy, thick thighs for both of you to revel in.

With the excitement in your body. You don't notice how Isa left your grasp, crawling away with a sway of her hips from side to side, now near her Chaeyoung they both look at you with an inviting smile, now giving you a chance to see both of them in their full glory.

With a devilish smirk Isa now moves behind the older girl, her eyes looking directly at you in an attempt to lure you in. Then a click can be heard as Chaeyoung’s bra now falls onto the mattress, Isa quickly joins her as now in front of you, two naked, gorgeous ladies sit in front of you.

And finally, knowing what the last piece is missing from the puzzle, you finally grab the hem of your boxers, pulling it down to let your Hardened cock stand strong and proud.

“Told you he was big” Isa exclaims, giving a small nudge to Chaeyoung with a small giggle, her friend quickly joins her.

“Yeah…so big” she mumbles quietly, her finger inside her mouth, lightly chewing on it to hold in the excitement of seeing your size. 

However, you didn't come this far with them just to watch each other naked, and they are not either as without saying a word, the two of them playfully shove you down into the mattress and get into their positions.

It starts off with Isa finding her place on your legs once again, looking directly at you with her thighs wrapped around your cock, only the tip is exposed to the air as after a flirty wink, she starts rubbing her thigh on you.

“Oh shit, Isa…” 

You groan, the rest of your voice comes out as a moan that gets her excited, you could have witnessed the obscene act of her thigh job until the end of time, however it is quickly obstructed by Chaeyoung's ass planted on your chest, her rear side all for you to view how it moves, you are not surprised why she is a model with a body as divine as hers.

“Jake…i can feel you twitching ” Isa whines, feeling your tip slightly touch her entrance is enough to let some precum leak out of your tip with you releasing another moan.

“Hey, let me have some too” Chaeyoung interrupts, taking her thumb and brushing it over your tip and grabbing some of it as you could hear how she gives it a small lick before humming cheerfully at your taste.

“Ooo, he taste good~” how the fuck did you even think this girl was innocent again?

“Can I have some unnie?”

“Sure” as if Chaeyoung’s timing was perfect, your first shot of cums leaks out of your member as she quickly gets some on her fingers. 

“Say ahhh” Chaeyoung prompts as Isa happily obliges, letting her fingers get inside her mouth, tasting . Its down right torture how you are not allowed to see what might as well be a scene from an adult film but regardless you can only enjoy the sounds, its not like you didnt do it before.

As your libido starts growing, so does your confidence as your palms firmly hold each buttcock of Chaeyoung, feeling its texture by softly squishing it, kneading it like dough causing Chaeyoung to utter a moan while arching her body back to give you all of the signals that she is enjoying it.

“Okay, this is enough teasing, we want the real thing now” Isa exclaims, Freeing your cock from the confines of her thighs giving it a breath of fresh air as now she squats over your face, giving you a clear view of her shaven pussy. Chaeyoung meanwhile heads over to sit next to your cock, still standing, waiting for the next storm to hit.

“I assume I am still not gonna get a look aren't i?” You ask, trying to sound cocky however Isa didn't say anything as she was slowly lowering her body, obstructing your view once again. With her thighs around your body and her pussy so close to your face, you let your tongue out giving her lips the first lick, just to test the waters.

“Oh fuck, yess” You hear Isa muffled moans from pleasure, feeling her ass gyrating on your tounge, enjoying every moment as you could feel the friction of her thighs on your face.

“You should join us Chaeyoung-AH, i can see him waiting just for you~” you could feel yourself getting even harder than before by the way Isa playfully invites her friend, all the while she is overtaken by pleasure. you are excited to see how Chaeyoung goes off with you, however your thoughts are stopped with a loud groan, not expecting your cock to feel the tightness of her pussy wrapped around you.

After the first contact Chaeyoung starts slowly moving up and down, each dip takes your cock deeper inside her, you could feel how each time you were inside her fluids were coating you more and more. “Oh my god Isaaaaa-” she stops her sentence, quickly releasing a sultry, husky moan. “His f-feels so good…”.

“His tongue too unnie, he is eating me out so well” Isa adds. It's nice to hear the compliment, so much that you get the confidence to start moving at your own pace, pushing your tongue inside. Meanwhile your hands grope Isa’s ass, giving you the grip to start pushing your hips in a matching pace to chaeyoung’s downward movement, Causing the two girls to scream from pleasure, holding each other in order to not collapse on the spot.

You could only Imagine how the girl’s lewd expressions were, just from the ungodly sounds, the scent of lust and cum, and the feeling of their curves on your body you could guess the fun they were having, but it would not be over until you all finally relieved yourself.

“Are you close Jake?” Isa manages to form a question while looking down, you could only respond with a muffled ‘yes’ and a nod of approval.

“I'm close too guys, i have to cum” Chaeyoung replies, releasing another moan in between bohnces it seems like you were all in on the same train of thought as you could feel yourself getting closer to your climax, even without Isa’s Ass directly on your face your view was getting hazy from ecstacy.

“Shit girls, i am going to-” you couldn't even finish the sentence before finally releasing your cum, thank god you pulled out of Chaeyoung just in time.

Your thick load goes all over their bodies, on Chaeyoung thighs, on Isa’s midriff, some even spills on your own abs, you are also not alone as they both get their own orgasm which goes all around your body, Chaeyoung coating your cock and Isa spilling around your face and abs

It takes a while but eventually you are all drained, both girls fall into each of your side, finally giving you a chance to see the two girls laid on the mattress, their bodies painted with cum from the three of you, their faces happy and satisfied.

For a couple of minutes it's quiet, the only way you communicate is with your eyes, looking at each other not with lust but instead with a warm, peaceful gaze.

Eventually Chaeyoung finally breaks the silence. “Fuck, im not a virgin but i gotta say; that is the best sex i had in my life”

“Same for me, i don't know if i want a round 2 or to stop” Isa joins between heavy pants, her hands wrap around your body as she looks at you with the same warm smile she had back when you first saw her.

“I don't know about you two, but i need a good rest after this” you manage to say as you once again lay down on the bed, eyes looking at the ceiling with each hand goes behind the girls’s back, pulling them closee to you.

“Okay then, we will start cleaning and then join you” Isa replies, letting you close your eyes and get some rest. However not before you can hear faint sounds of slurping as you open eye and see Chaeyoung's lips wrapped around the tip of your cock, isa behind holding her hair and tying it to makeshift ponytail.

“Hmm, it seems you two wanted another” you say, smiling at the two girls.

“Hey, you're still hard and we are still horny, you complain?” Isa asks, her eyes locking into yours paired with a flirty grin and a cute wink.

Something tells you that you wont get a good rest from those two girls.

[javierpena-inatacvest]

Stress Relief

Summary: After a recent promotion, Javi has had a lot on his plate. Thankfully, you know just what to do to help him de-stress.

Word Count: 2.8K

Pairing: Husband!Javier Peña x Wife!Reader (no use of y/n, post season 3)

Warnings: SMUT (18+), unprotected p in v sex (make safe choices pls), oral (m receiving), creampie, size kink (ish?), praise kink, sex as stress relief, Subby, whimpering Javi because giving him a surprise blowjob when you know he's stressed would make him crumble, this is literally porn without a plot WHOOPS

A/N: Shoutout to my job for having a system wide data outage today so I didn't have to work and got to write this instead 🤪 Poor bby cow eyes deserves all the stress relief in the world, and who am I to deny him 🤷🏼‍♀️ Also proud of myself because this is the first thing I've written without an obscene breeding kink in God knows how long, gold stars for me LMAO

Can be read as a standalone or as a part of the Never Too Late Series!

“You’re still working?” 

“No, I just really like sitting here and going through all this fucking paperwork for fun.” Javi sighed, sarcasm oozing out of his words as he leaned back in his chair, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration. 

As thankful as Javi was for his much more structured, low risk job at the Laredo Sheriff's Department compared to his time back in Colombia, his recent promotion had put way more on his plate than he had expected. 

Begrudgingly, Javi had been bringing work home with him most nights to make up for what he couldn’t finish in the office, leaving him in an exceptionally sour mood that he was spending his nights finishing paperwork instead of spending time with you. 

“Sorry, I’m not trying to be an asshole, Querida.” Javi huffed, upset with himself that any ounce of him was resorting to taking his frustrations out on you. “I just- I’ve just been really stressed about trying to get all this shit done.” 

“Really? I can’t tell. You don’t seem stressed at all.” You quietly teased, your sarcasm enough to at least crack a small smile out of his pouted frown. 

Pushing the office door open, you softly padded into the room, placing yourself behind Javi’s desk chair and draping your arms around his shoulders, gently resting your chin on his shoulder. His hands reached up to wrap around your arms now resting against his chest, his thumbs rubbing soft circles onto your skin as he let out a heavy sigh, your presence flooding him with at least a little bit of calm amongst the chaos.

“Is there anything I can help you with?” You asked, pecking a soft kiss onto the scratchy stubble of his cheek. 

“No, it’s just some paperwork shit.” 

“You sure?” 

“No, thank you though, Hermosa. I promise I’ll be done soon, baby.” 

Javi assumed his reply and gentle pat to your arm still wrapped around him would have enough to send you back out of his office so he could finish the rest of his work, but as your lips began to slowly travel from his cheek to down his neck and back up to nibble at his ear while your hands slid down his chest, he slowly realized that your offer to help had nothing to do with the actual work he needed to finish. 

“You sure there’s nothing? It sure seems like you could use some stress relief, Javi.” The tone of your voice shifting from sweet and innocent to low and sultry, the whisper of your words dancing in Javi’s ear and fingertips raking lower across his stomach and thighs making his breath hitch in the back of his throat as he realized what kind of “help” you were planning to offer him.

You smirked as you watched the bulge in his slacks begin to stiffen, your hand just grazing along the seam of his crotch while you kissed his neck, sucking at his pulse point and nipping at his skin. You could practically feel Javi melting into his chair at your touch, hoping that your plan would provide your husband with some much needed stress relief. 

“Pobrecito (Poor thing). You’re so tense. And so hard,” You laughed quietly to yourself, hand now cupping the full blown erection in his pants, “You gonna let me help you, baby? Help you get rid of some of this stress?” 

You began to swivel his desk chair to face you, Javi’s lips already parted for his heavy breaths as his hungry gaze met yours. Slowly, you climbed into his lap, your legs straddling over his hips as your hands ran up and down his chest, toying with the buttons of his dress shirt to expose his soft and tanned skin. 

Your mouths met in a hungry clash of tongues and teeth, capturing Javi’s muffled moans as you kissed him with an electric intensity that already had him needily bucking his hips up into you, desperate to ease how painfully hard he was from the few short moments since your proposition. 

Javi could barely find it in his mind to string together a coherent sentence, frantically nodding his head in agreement to your question between sloppy kisses, letting his hands roam down your back until they were grabbing your ass, kneading the plump flesh in his grasp. 

“Use your words, Javi. You want me to take care of you?” You cooed, grinding your hips into his lap as you watched his head tip back against the chair, jaw going slack and mind running blank as you rubbed against the straining fabric of his pants. 

“Fuck. P-Please, baby.” He moaned, Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat as he gulped, trying to use any ounce of composure he could to somehow make words travel from his brain to his mouth. 

“Good boy.” You smirked, placing one last kiss on his lips before climbing off his lap to settle yourself between his legs on the floor, letting your fingers toy with the clasp of his belt buckle until it broke free.

“Fuck me.” Javi whispered to himself under his breath, watching you free his belt to carefully unzip his slacks, lifting his hips just enough to help you pull down his boxers to reveal his aching cock, tip already red and precum weeping from his slit. 

“Maybe if you behave and let me take care of you, then yes.” You teased before letting your kisses trail up his thighs, inching closer and closer to his length, only making him groan more. His hand ran through the dark locks of his thick brown hair, trying to center himself enough to keep from busting right then and there. 

Your hands ran up and down his thighs as you scooted closer to him, kisses trailing behind the gentle graze of your fingertips up towards his length. You couldn’t help but smirk at him with a devilish grin, seeing how needy and worked up he already was without you even touching him yet. 

Letting your lips inch closer and closer to the base of his cock, your hand wrapped carefully around him, your thumb swiping over his tip and collecting the precum that had been leaking from it, sending a shiver down his spine and a low groan in his chest.

Slowly, your kisses made their way up his length, your lips replacing your hand, tenderly licking at sucking at his tip, eliciting a low groan from deep within his chest. “Relax, Javi. Let me take care of you, okay?” You cooed, letting his cock tap against your tongue before licking a long strip from base to tip, the sensation making him shutter. 

“O-kay. Fuck- Yeah, okay, baby.” He managed to stammer out, looking down at you perched between his legs, beginning to sink your mouth down on his length, hollowing out your cheeks until you could feel him hitting the back of your throat, coming back off him with a pop and a satisfied smile, batting your lashes at him. 

Javi’s head hit the back of his chair as you began to repeat the motion, slowly taking the full length of his cock in and out of your mouth, letting his tip graze the back of your throat with each movement.

Letting your tongue drag up his shaft, your lips wrapped around his tip, sucking and flicking at his most sensitive spots. One hand was wrapped around his cock and working in tandem with your mouth, while the other grasped at his bare thigh, fingertips digging into his skin. 

You began to pick up your pace, shifting your hand to cup his balls so you could take him back into your throat, sinking down just enough to let the deep, musky scent of the curls at the base of his shaft tickle your nostrils. 

You couldn’t help but let a small smirk form between your lips as you worked at his cock, seeing and hearing just how wrecked Javi was from the short time that you had gone down on him, quiet whimpers and moans escaping from his lips, followed by muffled whispers of mixed expletives in Spanish and English to himself in any attempt to keep from spilling down your throat just as soon as you had started. 

“Jesus fucking Christ… F-fuck me. You feel- mierda- you feel so good, Hermosa.” Javi managed to stammer out between gasps, looking down at you nestled between his legs with a desperate expression painted across his face, already feeling his balls beginning to tense and stomach start to swirl. 

While you knew it wouldn’t take much more to get Javi to your intended point of stress relief, you selfishly couldn’t deny the fact that you were now also in need of your own relief, feeling the arousal that had been pooling in your underwear, coating the inside of your thighs and forcing you to squeeze them together in attempts to ease your growing ache. 

Pulling off Javi’s cock and planting a soft kiss to his tip, you peered up at him with a devilish grin, phrasing your next proposition as a question, even though you undoubtedly already knew what his answer would be. 

“You wanna cum down my throat, or cum inside me? You choose, handsome.” You cooed, fingertips grazing the inside of his thighs as your kisses trailed behind, teasing Javi to the point you were half convinced he might cum just like this, considering his half coherent babbles as he tried to string together words to form any sort of thought. 

“I-inside. Fuck- Let me cum inside you, please.” He stammered, nodding his head frantically in confirmation of what you already knew would be his answer. 

Gripping your hands around his thighs to push yourself up to stand, you reached down to tug the hem of your shirt, pulling it over your head, quickly followed by your bra, both now crumpled in a pile on the floor. 

You couldn’t help but let out a little giggle at how Javi was gawking at you and your now bare chest, eyes bulging out of his skull and jaw hitting the floor as if he was a goddamn cartoon and it was the first time he had seen you topless in his entire life. 

Your bottom half slowly followed the same fate as your top, pants and underwear shuffling down your hips and legs until they were pooled around your ankles, leaving you completely naked as you began to crawl back into Javi’s lap. 

You let your legs straddle over his hips, your cunt ghosting over his cock as you placed your hands on his stomach, letting them slide up his chest until they were buried in the thick locks of his dark hair, gripping and tugging his curls while your mouth engulfed his in an electric kiss. 

A soft moan rumbled in your chest as his firm grasp found a home on your hips, his fingers digging into the meat of your stomach, holding on for dear life while he felt you hovering over his length. 

“Please, Hermosa. I need to feel you, baby.” He whispered into your ear, now all but begging for you to sink down onto his cock and let himself get lost in the mesmerizing warmth and wetness of you. 

Reaching below you, you wrapped your hand around his cock, positioning it beneath you to lower yourself down, whimpering at the sweet stretch and sting of his girth, letting his tip kiss your cervix as he filled you with every inch of himself that you could take. For as many times as you had found yourself in this position, you were convinced that you would never get over just how full you felt with Javi inside you, and how breathtakingly incredible it felt. 

Cupping Javi’s strong jaw in your hands, your forehead rested against his as you let your hips start to grind into his, long and languid circles of your lower half, rolling back and forth, burying Javi’s cock deep inside the warm, wet walls of your cunt. 

“Fuck me. Holy fuck.” Javi groaned, his hands snaking up your front to grab your breasts, kneading the soft flesh greedily in his hands. His fingers reached for your pebbled nipples, rolling them between his thumb and index finger, the new sensation sending a jolt of pleasure to your core. 

That, combined with the hairs at the base of Javi’s cock rubbing deliciously on your clit and the way Javi’s cock punched against your g-spot was already making you see stars, vision going white and brain going blank from just how good he felt buried inside you.

Instinctively, you rocked your hips faster, feeling an all too familiar tingle begin to build at the base of your spine. Almost as if Javi could sense the way your cunt was starting to clench around his length, he couldn’t help but buck his hips up into yours, his thrusts filling you in a way that had you absolutely reeling and breathless, the two of you both teetering on the brink of collapse to chase your own highs. 

“You feel, oh shit- you feel so good, Javi. Feel so good inside me. I’m close, baby.” You whimpered, burying your hands in the sweat curled hairs at the nape of his neck, lost in your own pleasure as your stomach swirled faster and faster with arousal. 

You could tell Javi was close, too- The gritting of his teeth, the wild and wanting look in his sweet brown eyes, the sloppy pace of his dick pounding into you and nearly incomprehensible babbles were all the tells you knew far too well to realize he was quickly about to come undone. 

“Yeah? F-fuck, I love being inside you. So fucking wet and tight, holy fuck.” 

You could feel your walls beginning to tighten around him, moaning as you buried your head in the crook of his shoulder, fingernails digging crescent moons into his skin as you braced yourself for the wave that was about to crash through you. 

 “Fuck baby, don’t stop- ahhhh- please don’t stop.”

“I know, baby, I know. Let go for me, Osita. Wanna feel you soak my lap before I fuck you full of me. Gonna cum so deep inside this tight little pussy.” Javi reached down so the pads of his fingers rubbed along your clit as you rolled your hips, sinking yourself deeper onto his cock with each thrust, your vision going white as you could feel yourself come undone. 

“Fuckfuckfuckfuckkkkkkkk!” You cried out as you felt your orgasm pulse through you, pleasure shooting through your body as you came, clamping down around Javi’s cock and gushing with your arousal, your body melting limp into his as he followed suite. 

“That’s it, baby. I’m gonna- fuck- g-gonna cum too. Fuck me, gonna fill you so full of me you’re- oh shit- gonna be dripping out of me f-for da- Oh fuckkkkkk-” With a final stutter of his hips, Javi thrust up into you, letting the warm rush of his spend coat your walls, milking himself of every last drop before carefully pulling out, letting the rhythmic breathing of your chests rising and falling sync together. 

“Holy fuck.” Javi sighed, kissing your bare shoulder before letting his plush lips peck across your neck and jawline before meeting yours. “I think it worked.” 

“Think what worked?” You asked, still trying to come to in your blissed out state, gently combing your fingers through the sweat ridden curls of Javi’s hair, giggling as he knowingly ghosted his fingers across your stomach, smiling to himself at your ticklish laughter. 

“The stress relief. God, I love you. I’ll never know what the fuck I ever did to deserve you, but I won’t question it. Thank you, baby.” Javi grinned, softly swiping his thumb across your cheek, leaving his other arm to wrap around your waist and pull him closer to his chest. 

“I love you, too, Jav. Glad I could help. Hopefully this was enough motivation to get you through the rest of your work.” 

As you started to scoot yourself off Javi’s lap to clean up the mess of arousal, clothes, and a few scattered papers you had left in your wake, you were taken aback to feel his grip tighten around you, holding you in place. 

“It’s gonna be a long night, because I’m not even close to being done.” Javi smirked, his tongue darting between his lips as his eyes darkened with a hungry gaze. 

“Then you need to let me get off you, you goofball. Last time I checked, your naked wife sitting on your lap isn’t helping anyone to get paperwork done.” You teased, playfully crossing your arms over your chest, tilting your head at Javi in a mix of sass and confusion until a shriek of surprise escaped from your chest as Javi stood up to set you on top of his desk, caging his broad body over yours. 

“Oh I’m done with all of this shit,” He paused, gesturing to his desk before letting his kisses lazily trail down your body until he was on his knees with your legs draped over his shoulders, spreading them open to reveal the swollen and glistening mess still between your thighs, “but there’s not a chance in hell I’m done with you.” 

Taglist:

@chaotic-iguana @rhoorl @bbiophiliaa @purpleprincess75 @angelofsmalldeath-codeine

@pedrobaby @fatima-marisa @beboldbebravethings @poodlebae @kittenlittle24

@3sriracha @jungchloee @perennialdoll247 @prettyinpunk85

@partyofone3413 @harriedandharassed @pedrohoe04 @theorganasolo

@endlessthxxghts @beware-my-thorns @missladym1981 @milly-louise

@jay-zzle @the-one-with-the-grey-color @persephone-girl @bitchesuntitled

@pedropascallvr @millennial-teenybopper r @nastiasnow @vee-bees-blog

@hopplessilse @mxtokko @its-nebuleuse @mandoisapunk @msmorningstaarr

@amyispxnk @honeyedmiller @mountainsandmayhem @picketniffler @burningnerdchild

@copperhalfcent @theoraekenslover @bloodyinspirationaldemon @vee-bees-blog

@samgirl4life @pigeonmama @survivingandenduring @itsokbbygrl @javierpena-inatacvestnotifs

[criticallyinneedofadar]

The Weight of the Weary

A/N: Gil-Gadaddy was calling my name. Alliance of Shadows is still on it's way! I just needed to appease the high king a little bit.

Pairing: Gil- Galad X Reader

Warnings: None

______________________________________________________________

Lindon shines brightest in the evening sun, the tree casting the city in its warm glow, its warm light spills into your private chambers where you and Gil-Galad sit together, savoring a rare moment of peace. He’s quiet, his posture stiff, and you can see the weight of his duties pressing down on him, even in this brief respite.

You watch him for a moment, studying the lines of tension etched into his brow. His mind is far away, no doubt torn between Elrond and Galadriel—two of the most important figures in his life, and two of the most stubborn. A soft smile tugs at your lips as you think of Galadriel, so full of fire and willfulness, almost like a daughter to you both, despite being much older than you both. You glance at Gil-galad, raising a playful eyebrow.

“You were a bit harsh on her today, you know,” you say, nudging him lightly with your elbow. “Galadriel might act tough, but even she has her limits.”

He sighs, running a hand through his dark hair, clearly anticipating your teasing admonishment. His lips curve into a faint smile, but it’s tempered by weariness. “I was not harsh, merely... firm,” he replies, though there’s a trace of doubt in his voice. “She needed to be reminded of her place.”

You chuckle softly. “She’s not a child, love. You can’t keep her reined in forever. Besides, she’s as much your family as I am. You don’t have to keep your guard up with her all the time.”

He leans back, his expression shifting from playful to weary, his hand rubbing the back of his neck as if to release some of the strain. “I feel stretched between them—between Elrond’s endless optimism and Galadriel’s relentless determination. It is like trying to balance two storms, each one pulling me in a different direction.”

You place a gentle hand on his arm, drawing his attention back to you. “They both want what’s best, but they are different in how they go about it. They look to you because they trust your wisdom, your strength.” You pause, softening your tone. “But sometimes, I think you try too hard to keep them happy, to keep everyone in line.”

He sighs deeply, the sound of someone who has carried far too much for far too long. “I must. I am their king, their leader. If I falter, if I show weakness—”

“You’re not weak,” you interrupt gently, moving closer to him. “But you don’t have to carry all of this on your own.”

Gil-Galad looks at you, his deep eyes searching your face, as if he’s unsure how to accept that offer. He’s always been proud, always the one to shoulder the burdens of his people, his friends, and now you can see how that weight has begun to wear him down. Your heart aches for him, for the man who bears so much responsibility yet so rarely lets anyone see his vulnerability.

“You’re not alone in this,” you murmur, taking his hand in yours. “Let me help you, even if it’s just in moments like this. You don’t have to do it all by yourself.”

He squeezes your hand, his thumb brushing over your skin as he looks at you with a tenderness that’s usually hidden behind the mantle of kingship. “I forget, sometimes, that I don’t have to. With you, I never have to.”

You smile softly, leaning into him, resting your head against his shoulder. The warmth of his body, the steady rise and fall of his breath, brings you a sense of peace you know he needs as much as you do.

“You’ve carried so much on your shoulders for so long,” you whisper. “Let me take some of the burden, if even for a little while. You’re my husband first and a king second. Lean on me as much as you lean on them.”

For a moment, the world outside fades away. There are no councils, no pressing decisions, no wars or power struggles. It’s just the two of you, bound together by love and trust. His hand rests against the small of your back as he pulls you closer, his voice low and filled with a gratitude that touches your heart.

“You are my greatest strength,” he says softly, pressing a kiss to your temple. “With you beside me, I know I can bear whatever comes.”

You lift your head, gazing into his eyes. “And you will,” you reply, your voice full of conviction. “But not alone.”

He smiles then, a real smile that reaches his eyes, and you feel the tension begin to ease from his body as he leans into the comfort of your embrace. You urge him to sit down in front of you. As he does, you begin to brush through his long brown hair, a hum of contentment leaving your husband as he relaxes into your pampering. Allowing this moment of relief, however brief it may be.

[kvthgok]

Surprise? | Miguel O’Hara x Teen Spider Reader (Platonic)

Warnings- none

Summary - Durning a mission you get hurt and try to hide your injury from Miguel

Side note - IM SO SRRY YALL THAT I HAVENT BEEN POSTING LATELY 😭🙏. SOMEWHAT PROOFREAD BTWWWW (ALSO to those who did request ideas I DID read them and am currently writing them 🤍🤍)

It was like any other day in the spider society. Fighting and sending anomalies back to their earths. But things had taken a slight little turn.

You had asked Miguel if you could tag along on a mission with him. It had token some convincing but half of it was just you begging. Miguel didn’t really like the thought of you going on actual tricky missions. He would normally send you on missions to catch the anomalies of the week. But not serious dangerous ones, especially the new anomaly Spot.

As you and Miguel were standing on a building Miguel was going over emergency plans.“Okay kid if anything goes downhill and you open a portal back to HQ immediately. I’ll be fine and finish up the mission myself.” Miguel looked at you trying to reassure you that he would be fine if you needed to leave.

Miguel sighed and then looked at the mission in front of you. “Ok you ready?” He asked you. His tone shifted back to a bit more stern and serious.

Yup!” You Said putting on my mask

The two of guys both put on your mask then swung off the building to the chaos down there.

Skip time after fight (cuz I’m to lazy & suck dookie at writing fight scenes🤭)

Miguel had met back up with you and was checking to make sure you were alright.

“You alright kid?” Miguel said having a tiny hint of concern in his voice.

He was about to say something else but stopped himself. He didn’t want to seem to over protective.

“The mission was a success. Good job kid.” Miguel said instead with a slight proud smile

He looked down at you and raised an eyebrow. “Yeah you alright kid? You didn’t get injured out there right?” He didn’t look too concerned but he had that same small hint of worry in his voice.

“Mhm yeah im fine.” I Said with a Small smile.

You had lied. Your hand was hurting like a bitch. The anomaly had stomped on it while fighting. You only lied to Miguel so he didn’t have to worry. Your lie seemed to work though.

Skip few days

These past days Miguel has noticed you had been laying off one of your hands and questioned you one night about it.

“Kid remember that time on the mission when you told me you weren’t hurt?” Miguel asked with a neutral expression.

“Yeah..why?” You said trying to act normal.

Miguel sighed and looked at you for a few seconds. “Don’t try to act like your normal. I’m not that stupid. Show me your injured hand.” Miguel’s tone had shifted back to being stern.

You still tried to act like you didn’t know what he was talking about.

He sighed out of annoyance and called out for Lyla telling her to scan you. She did find something. Your hurt hand.

Miguel was more annoyed then anything at this point. He had known you were lying to him this whole time. “So your telling me you’ve kept this injury hidden for a few days and didn’t tell me?” Miguel asked you while looking annoyed.

You nervously smiled not knowing what to say, “Surprise?”

He had a pissed off look on his face as he looked down at you, “Your not funny.”

“Why didn’t you tell me you had an injured hand when we got back to headquarters. I could’ve done something about it.” Miguel said with a stern tone.

“I didn’t want to you worry that’s why I didn’t say anything about it.” I said scratching my head looking down

Miguel looked at you for a few seconds. You could tell he was trying not to lash out. He sighed a bit and then spoke. “The next time you have an injury like this tell me please. This injury could’ve gotten a lot worse if you kept quite and let it fester for long periods of time.” Miguel spoke with a gentle tone even though he was pissed.

Miguel looked down at you once more. He could see that you had learned from this mistake. “I get it you didn’t want me to worry. Just don’t make that mistake again.” Miguel said looking a little less annoyed about this.

“Sorry Miguel” I Said in a low tone

“Its alright kid but next time just tell me. I want to make sure your always safe alright.” Miguel spoke with his eyes looking slightly softer and less stern.

[thesolarangel]

My shadows

Elrond x reader

(no gender mentioned, no pronouns) · Rating: G · 838 words · No warnings · NO descriptions of panic attacks or similar stuff! No use of Y/N. Sorry for abusing the “...” haha. This fanfic is set in winter! I just needed the ultra cozy vibes for this one. 

summary: Elrond notices that you’re struggling even though you’re trying so hard to hide it. He helps you get through a rough patch.

Also on AO3

Elrond has noticed that there was something off with you recently. You reacted irritably when being asked questions, you had dark circles under your eyes from lack of sleep and you didn’t seem like your usual self.

He goes to your chambers to check on you. He finds you laying on the chaise in the middle of the day, wrapped in a blanket and staring out of the window with a blank face.

“Hey, sweetheart”, he greets you in a warm tone.

You don’t answer and just wrap the blanket tighter around your body.

“Forgive me, I don’t mean to pry, but I’m honestly worried about you… Is there anything I can do for you?” Elrond sits down on the end of the chaise and strokes your thigh gently.

“No!” you snap at him. Shit. You immediately regret it. Societal pressure has been gnawing at you in addition to you struggling mentally. Elrond didn’t have anything to do with this. Tears are forming in your eyes and you squeeze them shut to try to force them away. “I’m so sorry.” you whisper with a trembling voice. 

“It’s okay. This wasn’t directed at me personally, even if I was the one to hear it…” 

He shifts closer and starts stroking your head.

“Your health matters, meleth nín. Body and mind. If you were to break a bone or fall ill with a terrible cold, you would give your body the rest it needs, wouldn’t you?” He smiles at you kindly. “You tell your friends they should look after themselves and take the time and rest they need to recharge… try to apply that to yourself… please.”

“It’s too h–hard… “ And this time, your voice breaks and you start to cry.

“Well, then I’ll help you.” 

Elrond holds you in his arms and lets you sob uncontrollably. “Let it all out, love, it’s okay.”

And all the feelings you’ve been avoiding for the past weeks come crashing down on you. You cry and cry and cry and Elrond holds you, strokes over your hair, caresses your back… 

After a while he begins to softly sing in Sindarin… He has a beautiful voice. Low and melodic he sings while he holds you… The song is unfamiliar to you, but it has a soothing power and you can feel it flow through your body as it slowly regulates your nervous system. The tears are gone and you truly feel better, more balanced, but there’s still this lingering sense of uncertainty and you’re not sure how to move on…

Then Elrond speaks anew: “Meleth nín, please know that this too, shall pass. You might feel like this intense hopelessness and these dark intrusive thoughts will never leave you. But I promise you, they will. You will be your usual funny, cheerful, creative self again.

I am so proud of you. You are such a kind, wonderful person and your friends love you so much.

You don’t need to carry all of this on your own. You can ask for help. I can help you take the weight off. I’m here for you, love.” He places a gentle kiss on your forehead. You look up to him and give him a small smile. His words mean a great deal to you. He’s always there for you no matter what. And you trust him.

“So… what do you say about a warm bath? While I make you some food?” he asks hopefully.

“A bath sounds amazing actually…” you answer hoarsely. All this crying has done a number on your voice.

“I’m glad. Then I’ll get it ready for you and you choose something comfortable to wear afterwards, alright?”

Elrond runs you a bath with your favorite essential oils and lights some candles in the bathroom so that you have it extra cozy.

You greatly enjoy soaking in the warm water and it smells so good. After a good half hour you’re starting to get a little sleepy so you get out of the bath, dry yourself off and put on some soft nightwear.

When you get back to your living room chamber, you see that Elrond is already waiting for you. He has set up a little picnic with a big blanket and some pillows in front of the burning fireplace. There’s fresh bread with cheese, some sweet and salty snacks that you like and some hot chocolate. 

The two of you enjoy your meal together and you talk a little here and there, Elrond doesn’t pressure you and there’s always more time to talk tomorrow. You share some of the things you’ve been struggling with and he listens to you closely and offers his thoughts if you like. 

Talking about this makes you feel lighter and you slowly get sleepy again. Before you can drift off on the floor in your living room, he takes you to bed and holds you in his arms while you fall asleep. That night, you don’t dream at all, you sleep through the night like a log.

____

tag list: @fenharel-enaste @queenmeriadoc @starlady66 @elronds-pointy-ears @bananaphanta @runawaymun @thetempleofthemasaigoddess @lady-of-imladris @mistergandalf

[antimonyandthyme]

smick, magical realism

He says, “I can’t magically conjure him up a cockpit, if I could he would already have one!”

There is a whisper of a laugh in his ear, and a flash of bright colour in the corner of his eye. Sebastian startles and looks around. It is noisy and busy and the interviewer is already asking her next question. No matter. Life has learned him some patience.

It is a beautiful day, with a beautiful crowd. There’s so much to be excited about. He receives homemade bracelets and hand-drawn postcards and signs every cap in sight. He’s buckled into Kinky Kylie by familiar hands. He relishes in her familiar sound. The feel of a wheel against his gloved hands. He is… proud of what he’s trying to accomplish. And humbled by all of the support.

The splashes of foxgloves lining his way back to the hotel are interesting. He won’t question it, not yet. The wind pushes through them, and Sebastian imagines he can hear the crystal tinkle of bells. He pauses at the sidewalk. This stalk must be at least six feet tall. He has to stand on his tiptoes to inhale.

Such a silly thing to do. Foxgloves have no distinct odour, even though they are very pretty. They are in fact, quite poisonous, and Sebastian certainly shouldn’t be sniffing them like he’s trying to do. Something tells him no harm will befall him. Something in the air feels amused, and it is always to your benefit, if people are amused with you. They tend to be more amenable this way.

Back in the hotel he packs. He’ll catch an early train tomorrow, so there’s no sense in going for a nightcap. Also no sense in delaying the inevitable.

He’s asleep faster than he remembers, and then awake in a place where the sand shifts and fog comes and goes and the backdrop changes from a deep forest to the unending ocean whenever he so much as blinks.

“You’re surprisingly hard to read for someone so transparent.”

“Are you doing that?” Sebastian asks, intrigued. “Changing the scenery to what you think I like?”

Laughter that is amused, thankfully, and not unkind. “I don’t need to think, Sebastian. I said you were transparent.” The fog swirling all around him materializes into a shape and then a form and then—

“That’s not fair,” Sebastian says quietly.

The Mick standing before him looks exactly like Mick, save for his blood red eyes. That beloved face which Sebastian has memorized to perfection curled into an expression Sebastian isn’t familiar with. A god contemplating an ant.

“This is all you,” Fog Mick says. “The scenery, the form I take. You’re anxious, so you’re flickering between places that soothe you. And you love him, so that’s who you see.”

To have it all laid bare before him without so much as an introduction. Not unlike being butterflied under the skilled hands of a chef. “Who are you,” Sebastian says, tries to keep his tone mild, “and what do you want with me?”

Fog Mick laughs. “You really are taking this very well.”

“I am—” Sebastian pauses, thinks. “I am a race car driver.” He’s proven that he still is, after today. “I’m working towards being a sailor, even though I’m not great at it. My friends like to think I’m a bit of a famer, too.” There’s so much to learn, he’s not even halfway there. “Beekeeper, husband, father. Lover.”

Fog Mick’s smile is indulgent, maybe even a little approving.

“I guess, after everything, it’s a little hard to surprise me now, as young as I may seem to you.”

“Flatterer,” Fog Mick crows, absolutely delighted. His nose scrunches up, just like Mick when he laughs. It would be disastrous if Sebastian were to let down his guard like that. “This is what I meant by you being hard to read.”

“So, will you answer the question?”

“You said you would conjure him a seat.”

“Figure of speech,” Sebastian says hastily.

“Oh, but I object,” Fog Mick says. “There was a desire, behind that thought.” The entity licks its—Mick’s, lips. Hold fast, Sebastian warns himself. “Desire so great it called me to you. I suppose you could say I grant wishes.”

“No,” Sebastian says, as unwise as it may be to argue with the Fae. “You conclude contracts. You want something in return.”

“Very good, Sebastian.”

“Well?” Sebastian runs through the possibilities in his head. Flesh? Blood? Lifespan? “What is it you want?”

“What will you give?”

Sebastian shakes his head. His heart trembles at the thought of acquiring something so precious, for someone so beloved. Hold fast. “You don’t play fair.”

There it is, a tinge of cruelness in the laugh now. “Never have done,” Fog Mick says. “Never needed to.”

“You’ll need to with me,” Sebastian says, injecting a false sense of surety into his declaration. It may be his imagination, but Fog Mick wavers like a wisp of smoke for a moment, before turning solid again. “Or I’ll sleep, and wake, and there will be no pact between us when all this is over.”

Something falls past Fog Mick’s lips, a language Sebastian wasn’t meant to hear. The air turns colder, and Sebastian tempers his heartbeat. In this realm, according to the Fae, he controls the surroundings. Fog Mick paces, footsteps uneven, like an adult trying to mimic the tread of a child. Now, Sebastian sees their differences clearly. Now, he gathers strength.

The unyielding, gentle might of the mountains. Sebastian takes them there. Fog Mick startles. A hiss, the entity twisting Mick’s handsome features beyond recognition with a sneer.

“You want something from me, enough to seek me out,” Sebastian says, pressing his advantage. “You want it so badly you came to me. Be honest, or I will speak with you no longer.”

“You seek to protect his youth, I want that shelter,” the Fae says. It no longer sounds amused, but covetous instead. “You seek to nurture him with your care, I want that kindness. You seek to succour him at his lowest, I want that comfort. You seek to love him.”

Sebastian shudders.

“I want that devotion.”

Sebastian braces himself. Images of Mick’s overjoyed face if Sebastian told him a seat would be available soon. But what of their relationship? What would become of them if the Fae were to take everything else they held dear?

“No seat is worth that,” Sebastian says.

“No?” Fog Mick raises an eyebrow. “Not even one for your beloved?”

“I seek to protect him, even though he does not need my coddling. I seek to nurture him, and I see him far grown beyond me. I seek to succour him, and he gives me comfort instead. And I seek to love him—”

The Fae frowns, dissatisfaction breaking its form into mist. Fear and reverence and caution and wisdom. Sebastian has never been so grateful to every experience amounting to this instant.

“And he loves me in return. He does not need your offer. So, I refuse.”

They’re back in the hotel room, and Sebastian is waking. The chiming of bells, signalling an end to something significant. Laughter in his ears, haughty, but still, not unkind.

Even packed, Sebastian manages to be late for his train. He runs with his roller suitcase trailing and bumping behind him. He passes the foxgloves, now wilting, and thinks of what to say to Mick.

“If I told you, I had the opportunity to get you a seat, but turned it down—”

“Then I’d know,” Mick interrupts him, voice strong and sure even through the poor reception, “you’d have done it for a good reason.”

“Alright,” Sebastian says. How much can he feel for one person? It’s unfathomable. “I’ll see you soon.”

[sweet-hearts-and-destiny-knots]

(/playful tone)

oh no! what couldve happened to set the Drayster spiralling?

The short answer is: Drayton came to the harsh and heavy conclusion his best wasn't and would never be good enough.

To elaborate, it's well established that Drayton has repeated the same year of school not once, not even twice, but thrice. Given his seemingly rather flippant attitude towards his education, I wouldn't have seen any need to reflect on this further were it not for the fact he's stated to be a second-year student.

I feel there could be a story hidden somewhere behind that little detail. It's entirely possible to me he could have spent his first year at Blueberry Academy attending classes and making an honest attempt to succeed in his studies.

At the very least, he managed to advance to the next year, something Drayton undoubtedly could not have accomplished if he didn't extend some amount of effort.

So, what could have occurred his second year to make him stop trying? His first second year, that is.

Sisterhood operates under a different timeline than the "canon" one, so for the moment we'll scoot what happens exclusively here in this universe to the side.

Drayton has two special conversations in The League Clubroom with Hassel and Geeta. The former provides the information the two know one another to some extent, and confirms all suspicions that Drayton is the grandson of Drayden.

Drayton himself tells Juliana/the protagonist he's been held back three years in a row, and says so quite calmly! However, he's not nearly as relaxed when Hassel brings up the topic. He's even decidedly defensive about it.

His conversation with Geeta goes a similar direction. His demeanor appears to instantly shift when she mentions him originating from a long line of esteemed Dragon-type users.

So, from both of these discussions I gathered that being held back is actually an issue Drayton does feel sensitive about, and that his reaction to the mentioning of his familial ties could suggest some significant strain in that area.

He also confessed that classroom learning is difficult for him, so my hypothesis is this: Drayton did try his absolute best his first year in school, but ultimately his best was more or less a D student when battling wasn't involved.

And it was embarrassing. It was an embarrassment for someone with such a prestigious background to be in possession of such abominable marks.

Drayton tried his best, but it wasn't good enough. So he stopped trying at all.

(Am I reading much too deeply into these moments? Possibly! But I will continue to believe they are that deep.)

Now we step into Sisterhood's alternate timeline and will delve into the specific event that made this universe's incarnation of Drayton dive headfirst into his downward spiral.

His grandfather Drayden speaks glowingly of Iris, his adoptive sister. Drayton doesn't resent her in the slightest for this; he's treated her as family since day one.

However, the fact remains that Drayden searched the world over for a successor after apparently deeming his still young grandson unsuitable, and eventually returned to Unova with an even younger girl from The Village of Dragons in tow. The favoritism he displayed towards Iris was impossible to overlook, and it frequently left Drayton struggling with feelings of inadequacy.

But one fateful day during his second year at the academy, he conquered The Blueberry League and was crowned its new Champion! He finally felt a sense of accomplishment!

Unfortunately, his achievement was overshadowed entirely by Iris claiming the title 'Champion of Unova'.

So Drayton smiled for his adoptive sister. He smiled as though his heart wasn't slowly shattering.

And then, he began to spiral.

(Does Drayton Pokémon know that I'm proud of him and that his best IS good enough? I need him to know.)

[ithebookhoarder]

Joel teaching you how to ride a horse: (Joel Miller x Reader)

A/N: I apologise in advance as I am through and through city bred, and do not -in fact - know how to ride a horse. I’d love to learn though, especially if Joel was willing to teach me 😅

Warnings: swearing, light smut, references to smut

Masterlist:

Riding a horse isn’t scary. Or, at least, it shouldn’t be. 

Getting into college was scary. Surviving the outbreak after finishing a 12 hour shift at work was scary. Hell, every day since then, fighting and scrambling to stay alive despite the unknown horrors that seemed to surround you… now that had been scary. 

But this? Learning to ride a horse? From Joel no less? It should have been a cakewalk. 

You were embarrassed to say you were trembling all over before you’d even entered the training paddock. It had taken a whole lot of coaxing from your all too patient partner to get you to at least make it close enough to pet the horse, let alone mount it. 

Why had you agreed to this again? 

Oh, yeah. 

Him. 

Because of those big brown eyes of his and his soft, sultry tones… begging you to let him teach you so you could go on romantic rides together, beyond the borders of Jackson, see the sights, get some time alone… he’d made it sound so appealing, as he peppered kisses up and down your spine. 

“But Joel… You know we could just skip the horse part and still go for a ride here, in bed-“

“Not that kind of ride, you minx.” 

It’s also a smart idea, as Joel explains, so that you both knew you had a way of making a quick escape should it ever come to it. 

It makes sense. Annoyingly. And you know you have no choice but to agree and give in. 

Which is how you ended up here… frustrated, sweating, and regretting ever saying ‘hi’ to Joel Miller. 

It’s not fair at all. 

You have no idea how he makes it look so easy, what with him trotting about like one of those damn cowboys you’d seen in movies growing up. The kind your Nanna had fawned over whenever she got you to agree to watch an old black and white flick on a Sunday afternoon. 

It was like the horse just knew what he wanted him to do without Joel ever having to do or say anything. 

“It’s all in the grip, darling,” he explains after you huff and complain that your horse hates you. “Come here. I’ll show you.” 

And he does. 

He stands behind you and grabs you around the waist, changing his position and his grip several times in quick succession. It feels like you’re back in medical school again, being shown the various parts of human anatomy. 

“What do you feel when I grab you like this, all super tight, like I’m crushing your ribs?” 

“L… like you’re trying to hurt me?” 

“Exactly? And when I hold you here? Like this, much looser, instead?” 

“Like you’re trustworthy… that, I’m safe. That you’re trying to hug me rather than wrestle me.” 

“Now imagine my arms are your legs, and your waist is that horse. You wonder why he’s getting all worked up, but he’s sensitive. He feels the same as you do. Relax and he’ll relax too. See? Easy.” 

Yeah. Sure. Easier said than done. 

Still, Joel is determined to see this through and does not allow you to quit - no matter how much you try.

He keeps on urging you back on to the horse every time you fall off, and is the first to praise you when you do something right. 

“No wonder Ellie bitched so much about you teaching her to swim. Heard you pushed her in a river-”

“She learned to swim, didn't she?”

“JOEL!”

You hate to accept he has a point. After all, by the end of the day you’ve managed to learn to stay on the horse, and can actually steer them in any direction you wish. 

Which, in Joel’s eyes, makes you a damn state champ and he’s keen to tell you as such. 

In fact, he sounds so proud of you, gushing praise about how well you did, and how he knows it was tough but you stuck with it and that’s the most important thing about learning any new skill... 

It makes you feel all gooey inside - especially as he runs you a hot bath later that night, so you can soak your aching body. You know without asking that the slowly growing pain will be even worse come morning. 

It’s no wonder Joel’s stayed in as good shape as he has, given how much time he spends riding around the countryside beyond Jackson’s walls. In fact, you have a new found appreciation for it.

“You did real good, darling. I mean it. I’m proud of you.” 

“Thanks, baby.”

“You’re welcome... now skooch on over so I can get in there with ya. Who knows when Ellie will get home, and I plan to make the most of having this place to ourselves.” 

He doesn't have to ask twice. 

Soon enough, your groans and moans of pain were soon replaced with those of pleasure, accompanied by the sound of water sloshing over the sides of the too-small tub. 

If this is your reward then you’re not opposed to getting back in the saddle again at some point to finish your lessons. 

But, be that as it may, you still definitely prefer being left aching after the other kind of ride instead... one that involves a bed, and a whole different kind of wild creature. 

[birgittesilverbae]

moiraine x siuan + raised (big fan btw. love ur writing) :)

love u smo 🥰

//

The sounds of celebration ring through the city. In her bedchamber a few floors up the Tower, the Watcher of the Seals, the Flame of Tar Valon, the Amyrlin Seat flops facedown on the bed with an unceremonious groan. The festivities will continue for the remainder of the month, but Siuan has not had the time, the energy, nor the inclination to partake.

"Mother–" Moiraine begins from beside her, and Siuan can feel the shit-eating grin plastered on her face as surely as she can feel her own heart thudding in chest.

"Don't you start," she grumbles, whacking blindly at whatever part of Moiraine lies nearest. "Light, it's bad enough that Sheriam spends half our conversations mid-curtsy.”

“You poor thing, however do you survive?”

Siuan drags a pillow over her head and groans again, louder and more prolonged. "Hello to you too. Have you come back to do anything other than mock me and steal another angreal?"

"'Objects of the One Power are the property of the White Tower'," Moiraine quotes back at her, her tone still a perfect mimicry of Verin's distracted lectures even ten years removed from those lessons.

"An Aes Sedai answer if ever I've heard one."

"If you must know, I was in the Foregate when I got word that a new Amyrlin had been raised. I felt it was my duty to pay her the proper respects in due haste."

"Not feeling very respected over here."

"As is proper," Moiraine replies, but her voice is fond. Her hand lands on Siuan's back, rests warm and heavy between her shoulder blades. "Did you send that pigeon before you were even summoned to the Hall?"

Siuan hums noncommittally. She had, of course, scrawled the message in the scant minutes between Leane's rushed warning and the arrival of the Hall's envoy at her door, but Moiraine doesn't need to know that. (Moiraine already knows that she's the first person Siuan thinks of telling whenever something occurs. Moiraine has absolutely no need to know that even now Siuan catches herself tilting her head and darting her eyes to the side, seeking Moiraine to share a quip or a laugh.)

The pillow is tugged away from her head, and the mattress bows beneath them as Moiraine leans down to press a kiss behind her ear. "I'm proud of you." Her breath is hot on Siuan's skin. The bundle of emotion in the back of her head echoes the sentiment, pulsing warm and solid and supportive.

The feeling rankles Siuan for some reason she can't quite put a finger on. She grunts.

"I am, darling. You will do well. No one could be better suited to the role." Moiraine clicks her tongue, fingers tracing the columns of muscle flanking Siuan's spine, and then she shifts, throwing a leg across Siuan to straddle her hips. "You need to take better care of yourself, though," she chides gently, working her thumbs into a knot at the base of Siuan's neck. "If running your little network of spies was enough to give you tension headaches, then this weight…" She trails off, her voice thick, worry coming off her in waves.

"My network was hardly little," Siuan retorts. The words are loaded with far more venom than she'd intended, and she rests poised on the brink of an apology until a faint feeling of mirth thrums across the bond. She curses herself for taking the bait so easily. "I'm sure you've stayed in perfect health while off sleeping in a ditch."

"Several ditches, actually," Moiraine corrects, her hand stroking down the slope of Siuan's shoulder. "And Lan would not allow for anything less, as you well know."

[thoselethalarts]

A couple of those ask things I'm curious about

2. Is it easier to draw someone facing left or right (or forward even)

4. Fav character/subject that's a bitch to draw

7. A medium of art you don't work in but appreciate

10. Favorite piece of clothing to draw

12. Easiest part of body to draw

14. Any favorite motifs

30. What piece of yours do you think is underrated

2. Is it easier to draw someone facing left or right (or forward even)?

You know, I haven't really thought about it much before 🤔 I feel like left vs right is about the same difficulty level for me to draw, both for 3/4 view and for profile view. Though 3/4 view is probably easier for me to draw of the perspectives. Front-facing is fun too to see a facial structure from a different perspective- literally!

4. Fav character/subject that's a bitch to draw?

WEAPONS! Dear god I am AWFUL at drawing weapons, all of them. Guns, knives, swords, bats, whips, spears, crossbows, morning stars, brass knuckles... I am absolutely dogshit at drawing weaponry without some kind of direct reference to trace over, which really sucks because I love weapons and think they're super cool! I have so much respect for people that design their own weapons, especially the ones that have to work with time period-specific limitations (lookin at you, Vinland Saga)

Also as a side note: fuck shoes. I can't draw shoes (or feet) for shit. Every time I draw a shoe I hope ya'll know that it took me at least 5 different references and a 3D model in order to make that happen.

7. A medium of art you don't work in but appreciate?

Pixel artists and animation, ESPECIALLY animation. I simply do not have the patience for any of it, especially hand-drawn animation; I took a class for it in high school years ago and while I did just fine in the class it made me realize that I do NOT have the patience for the medium. 3D animation was a little easier for me but I'm still not skilled enough at timing and distortion to satisfy my creative image.

Also I have so much respect for pixel artists you wouldn't believe. I used to use Fireworks to fill out pixel art bases on DeviantART over a decade ago and while I did have fun with what I did and could still theoretically do it now, it'll never look as nice as I want it to look in my head 😔

10. Favorite piece of clothing to draw?

Jackets and sweaters, but also I LOVE drawing things like scarves and capes that can billow in the wind and shift with the movement of the wearer, cuz it adds a whole new dimension of action to what could otherwise be a static pose!

Also also I'm a sucker for fishnets 😊

12. Easiest part of body to draw?

So fun fact about me- I actually LOVE to draw human anatomy. Whenever I draw a character I always start by fully drawing out the character's physical anatomy, and then I draw the clothes, hair, and faces on top of that! Here's some sketches from the Soul Archive to show my semi-chaotic workflow~

So I guess the answer is anything that isn't feet is easy for me to draw lol

14. Any favorite motifs?

Repeated phrases/symbols that initially appear to have no meaning but then the meaning becomes abundantly clear in hindsight as it's revealed throughout the story, or alternatively a phrase/symbol that has a specific meaning that's relevant only to the initial introduction of it which changes over time to mean something entirely new, symbolizing the growth and evolution of the character/identity that uses it, or the shift in tone/focus of the overall story.

EX: "It's eternity in there." and "Longer than you think." - Emesis Blue "One of us must die." - The Doomstar Requiem additionally: The Open Hand - Army of the Doomstar / SOS - Dethklok

30. What piece of yours do you think is underrated?

Oh, EASY. My slipknot-inspired TWST piece I'm still incredibly proud of (even if I've redesigned Phobos since then)

[aryasage]

can i get a uhhhhhh "façades are beautiful–but what happens when they crack?" my god i am so curious

and maybe a "how to intimidate a showmaker 101" if it isn't too bothersome, i would like to know how to intimidate a showmaker too

those titles are certified bangers

btw, big fan of your (and livikattt's, but apparently you're the same entity™) works!!!

façades are beautiful–but what happens when they crack?

heh. for this one, we're going to have to go a while back—to before the first ppau fic was even published. i'm honestly curious how many ppau readers even saw ssash—and looking back on it now, it's certainly not my best work (and wow past tense looks weird) but i do still like some of the lines i got in there. anyway, at the end of ssash, i promised that some mikyx angst would be coming soon. then, by hcihelyd, it had been indefinitely shelved. what happened to it?

well, the most obvious answer is loss of motivation. that's the reason for almost all of my wips staying wips, after all. and it's certainly applicable here, but the more important thing that happened is, well…ppau happened.

i've mentioned before how "pure canon" in rpf can get messy very quickly if you're not careful, and this definitely got messy. i'm not going to go into the specifics of why, but let's just say there was a lot of projection going on, whether intentional or not. it wasn't an au, not really, and i'm not really comfortable writing that, especially not with where it was heading. i didn't really have a plot, either. the only thing resembling a plot was just…well. watching xl get reverse swept to get knocked from worlds contention was incredibly depressing, not to mention the loser's interview miky gave after. but eventually i found a different team to write angst about after their loss, and i'm much more proud of that fic :)

so this is never going to get finished, let alone published, but you can have a bit that didn't age too poorly~

“Hey, at least we’re not Vitality,”  he joked halfheartedly, resulting in a small and hollow laugh from his teammates. The tension was palpable, the heat of the summer air only a small factor of the thickness that permeated the room. No one wanted to be the first to speak up about their complete and utter failure.

how to intimidate a showmaker 101

in a complete tone shift, this one is complete crack. that is, until it switches povs, but i was too lazy to write more than a few paragraphs of that part seeing as i knew i was never going to be able to publish the full thing (thank you for that, lolrpf! i love having to censor everything i write just so it won't be interpreted as shipping), and i also didn't really have a set ending. i had written pretty much everything i planned out~

i do still love it, though. maybe i could change the sensitive part at some point so i can post it here or something. who knows. we'll see.

anyway, as for the actual plot…well. if you read wtua (and if you didn't what are you doing, it's right here), then you might have noticed showmaker mentioning viper putting a knife to his throat the last time scout made him ask viper for help. it's also brought up in dfwydk how showmaker teleported straight to his location and, again, got a blade to his throat. there are also a couple more references in unpublished (for now) things. these are all referring to this…incident.

before showmaker drags scout to jiejie in order to save his life, scout mentions the person who is still talking to him. viper. unfortunately, before he can contact viper himself, he has a sliiight sleep paralysis episode. enter showmaker, who is Definitely Not Concerned At All For Scout's Wellbeing, and who is also being ghosted by scout. as we see in wtua, showmaker's teleportation is…very handy.

here's the most important bit. or, well, the part that i had the most fun writing~

“I asked you a question,” Viper says, stalking towards Showmaker, and gods, speaking of that poison, Showmaker can’t help but recoil at the pain that blossoms in his mind with every word that Viper speaks. He’s all too aware of the gun still trained on his head, but his words are stuck in his throat as he tries to answer Viper.

Viper suddenly moves too quickly for Showmaker to react, and now, as well as a gun digging into his back, there’s a blade at his throat. “I won’t ask it again, Heosu.” The shadows all around the room press in, and though Showmaker knows they’re intangible, he can’t help but feel horribly claustrophobic.

Finally, Showmaker manages to conjure up his magic, frantically throwing out an explanation as quickly as he can. “It’s about Scout!”

Viper’s blade only digs deeper, and Showmaker can feel blood welling up. “What did you do to him?” Viper snarls. It takes all of Showmaker’s willpower not to thrash against the pain from the poison of Viper’s voice and slice his own throat open in the process.

“Nothing, I swear! He needs your help! He said you’d understand,” Showmaker pleads.

“Since when do you care about helping Scout?” Viper spits out. “Last I heard you two weren’t the best of friends.”

it's incredibly self-indulgent, as you can tell, but protective viper is just too much fun. i regret nothing.

we are not the same! but we are two halves of a whole :)

twin shadows, if you will~

but thank you! glad you enjoy them as much as we do, and hope you enjoyed this little sneak peek~

[radicalbillie]

Been writing a Hogwarts Legacy fanfiction purley for my enjoyment. Here's an excript from it, if anyone would like to read more maybe I'll get to finishing a final draft.

Ominis and Vivianne's official introduction

"Oh, hello Ominis." Vivianne stopped mid stride looking at the boy leaning against the wall.

He seemed to be listening to the string quartet which was enchanted to always fill the halls with such lovley sound. She found herself still a bit nervous near him, since the first time they had really met he had erupted at her, and she assumed Sebastian for her knowledge of the underceoft.

"Good afternoon miss Lovelace." His tone had taken a completely different air from back then.

"About the other night..." she shifted nervously, selecting each word carefully. "Sebastian only meant to show me a place where I could catch up on some spell work- since I'm so far behind the other 5th years. Truly, he didn't think you'd mind."

"Yes, he explained it all to me after we had an 'exchange'." His voice softened further. "It makes sense, and was fairly considerate; for Sebastian. It was also quite decent of you to, well however clumsily- attempt to sheild him like you did." With that the blind boy pushed himself up from the wall, and stood before her. His face turned in her general direction and his posture tall and sure.

"I would also like to apologize, for my ungentlemanly reaction. I don't believe we have ever been formally introduced." He smiled, and bowed slightly with his right hand to his chest. "I'm Ominis. Ominis Gaunt. It's a pleasure miss Lovelace." His words and his limbs drifted elegantly.

If someone told Vivianne that she had stumbled into his evil twin the other night, she would believe it. This gentleman before her was like a completely different person.

"Vivianne... uhh Lovelace. But you know that ah, my friends just call me Viv." She felt so clumsy and awkward compared to him.

"So you and Sebastian have been friends since you were first years?" She tried her best to not seem flustered.

"Indeed we have, since our sorting ceremony. It wasn't quite as 'eventful' as yours mind you."

"Ah, well I do love to make an entrance." She bluffed some confidence.

He chuckled in response, his smile and candor seeming genuine and at ease.

Clearing her throat; "So, were you expecting to be sorted into Slytherin then?"

"Most certainly. My family are directly descended from Salazar Slytherin on my father's side." He spoke the words proudly but, he seemed to shrink as he continued. "Not something I'm particularly proud of mind you. Most of my family are pure blood maniacs, obsessed with blood status. Evidently it's a family tradition." His tone was sardonic and cold at the latter bit.

"Sebastian did say you had... how did he put it. 'No love lost' for your family."

"Ha! That silver tongue devil, he always knows just what to say." The sarcasm in his voice was gone, though there was still a bite to it.

"I don't mean to pry... but am I right in thinking that your father is one Devrim Lovelace? High Inquisitor for the Ministry?"

"The very same." She smirked. She put her hands behind her back and shifted to a better posture.

"Well, spitting Gobstones, I thought I had connections." He chirped. "From a family as old as Lovelace, why would you be starting your education so late?"

Viv chuckled nervously at the question. "Ah, well..."

"Forgive my impertinence, I didn't mean to be nosy."

"No, no. It's ok. According to professor Fig I am what is referred to as a 'late bloomer'. Not common for ones magic to develop so late, but it does happen. For a long time everyone thought I was just a squib."

He could hear her voice shrinking, in volume and tone.

"Given that you're a Gaunt, I imagine I don't have to explain the general disdain for squibs in certain circles..." her shoulders slumped.

"Oh yes; I do understand." He spoke slowly, and softly. "I certainly hope none of our peers have caused any distress since your arrival miss Lo- ah, Viv." He said. "Might I pry further, and dare ask if anyone from my own House has caused you trouble?"

"Oh no. Nothing overtly antagonistic. Not since coming to Hogwarts at least." She mumbled the last bit. But he caught it.

He straightened his posture and looked where he was sure she was standing.

"Well, do let me know if I can be of any assistance as you navigate your time here."

"Oh, well-thankyou Ominis." She chirped with a grin. "I'll see you around."

He nodded. "Don't be a stranger."

He stood and listened to the click of her shoes fading away into the string music. He held his wand with both hands, the tips of his fingers twirling it thoughtfully. When he had berated Sebastian that night in the undercroft, it had grown clear to him that his best friend had become infatuated with miss Lovelace.

'She seems kind...' he thought thinking back to the times he had overheard her helping miss Zenobia and Mr. Hobhouse. Her words were sweet and her voice soothing.

"You have good taste my friend." He knotted his eyebrows in irritation.

He didn't like what he was feeling.

[theanharchist]

Drawing challenge

I will do it. I am going to say that though like Nike so that I won't. No, let humanity figure itself out when it comes to Anh deciding whether she will ever do the drawing challenge...I am going to watercolor checks as my satire or make variants of it but you guys can't sue satire especially when Jiggly Puff is allowed. I will say that I have declined exhibitions and this will not be for that. I want to make wholesome content for my age group whether there are deniers and to say...that doesn't make you a hater because no one has the resume to hate me...at least. That is the only time it is an oxymoron. No, this clause is different than my opposite day clause which I reminded everyone who's a spy...that it is absolutely a not for you page. I mean what I say when it is Age Groupling(s) only in the digital sphere and in real life. By which, I am glad I cannot afford a house because I am NOT going to be influenced to becoming a sex worker. I have parents with a three-bedroom home. The tiny-home movement is an oxymoron now if I am attacked by a blogger I follow trying to write in the tone of AnHarchY. It is super rude, not supremely though...

I am a writer who vouches for my piety, sobriety and abstinence.

I won't vouch myself for subordination. That sentence should not even be a second thought of concern. I am NOT happy with humanity allowing expression to be of that court. Like they allowed the '95 curve to sex as an option and I am not proud of what serving is. I am glad Tumblr banned what they banned in the past. But I was never participating in that content nor ever want to. Let that be known but also...I shouldn't feel the need to preface this but I have to now.

Serve what if that still exists. I hope serving becomes against that as a freedom. To me it is a statistic enabler.

I am 29. It is not my fault some people follow me on Instagram because I have no idea who they are. I do not talk to them but it is better than an old person following me. The director of C8 magazine stays as the push against but away with personal space from the 70s. Clearly, I shan't be Mazzy. That guy had beef with Clint Eastwood and so I can't be a voucher of either sides. I got to call it out before people take frames out of hand. I am a supporter of no Estate Sale.

No. My Instagram will be Animal Crossing tainted even if Larry the Pickle nemesis checks out and not into work. I will not ever use the word enslave here to practicum.

With that said, my bunny died from being siked out by an orange cat so don't be a bully. I am healing still from Faith dying by a heart attack.

P.S. in all caps lock or shifted or uppercase: "Don't..."just do it"."

Light expose: Print is black and white and that is ink. Writing is not as potent as image as in picture has a wide range of captions but it is not infinite otherwise humanity is ignoring our "God for sake you" TM I mean..."For God Sake you"...given right to have context. You cannot place just about anything abbreviated within quotation marks but don't...do that cheesy thing where people reverse osmosis Jones what I say into a movement against Saigon...or for it...you weren't there for it...I wasn't either...but...my grandpa was...once again...it's like the immediate Sims 2 social reaction and I told people to stop clicking on me "...To Instigate."

Word ClouT by me...hopefully people read the heart first and think "oh...okay..." first for my juxtaposition forsight. Clearly, if people think I've bought into agape, they are supporting wreckless and not chaos. This is coherent. A shape is not what you think it is. Light expose part 2: It is a cut-out and you have to read around the positive space. I write as I read. I will finish my Lord of the Rings box set before I watch videos on book-binding. I got you incognito fan-bases. I understand what to do now. But you cannot refrain here as I write because you aren't a follower and so this is negative space 2.0 from all of my other social media accounts which is 1. Pinterest, 2. Tumblr is not Social Media it is not to socialize but I will list it second and then--3. Instagram before I forget and 4. Twitter-revived. I honestly still regress to what it was before it became whatever homonym it is today. Sorry, but it sounds like "sex" and that is not me flirting. I will call it Twitter, still...dear humanity. That is when I say "nostalgia" for my leverage and not anyone's made up memory. But "Just do it" Larry the nemesis Pickle. No..like the clause is him as a pickle and then leave it there. *pinches fingers from a sandwich hold to close the clause with flair and composer energy* But as I said first in the PEMDAS equation of systems..."don't....just do it." That is the book I pretend to open up to listen in on other conversations incase it is about me.

[thebandcampdiaries]

ZEMBL (An Interview)

We've had an opportunity to ask ZEMBL a few questions! This one-of-a-kind artist approaches electronic music in a truly different way, highlighting his creative background and focusing on sound design in order to achieve something quite special.

Find out more about ZEMBL, and do not miss out on his music! Read the full interview below.

1. Congrats on your rich and diverse discography! It feels like every project has something to offer and you're always willing to take creative chances. Could you elaborate on the core concept behind your albums JUDAS, JUDAS II, and VEXER? A: Thank you so much! I am very proud of what I am creating with those three albums, and even though they usually end up as a mixed bag of genres, I try to make them sound as cohesive as possible. The core idea behind it is that I wanted to make something that was inspired by my childhood but also something new at the same time. So the concept I came up with is that I would make soundtracks to fictional games, or, as I like to put it, games that could've existed in another dimension. 

2. Your unique approach of creating music with retro videogame OSTs aesthetics from a different dimension is intriguing. How did you come up with this concept? A: I've always wanted to do something inspired by my childhood, and I always used to play retro games. People who know me always said my music sounded like it would fit well in a soundtrack. So I came up with a story, cryptically woven throughout the three albums revolving around what the differences in history and pop culture in the other dimension are, and JUDAS II even breaks the fourth wall near the end of the album. There's a lot of small hints in the track titles and numberings that hint to what the game might be about or what happened in the other world. In my lore, I'm just restoring these albums because they bled over into our dimension, kind of like a scribe.

3. What was the inspiration to incorporate experimental sounds in your music? Do you start with a basic beat idea and later add experimental elements, or do you begin with creative tones right away? A: I've always been into experimental stuff, honestly. A sense of identity in music is important to me too, though admittedly, I have struggled with that for quite some time. Like I said in an earlier question, I wanted to make something that sounded familiar but new at the same time. Usually I build my songs around an interesting synth or melody, but sometimes I start around a cool bassline or drum pattern. It depends on what I feel like the songs focal point should be.                                                                                            

4. As an artist, how important is it for you to maintain a level of mystery in your lore and aesthetics? A: Very important! Art is so open to interpretation, and sometimes people can attach their own feelings or ideas behind things. I think the primary function of art is to move people, so I don't really want to push people to think or see something that might or might not be there. The music I make means a lot to me so I try to leave room for people to interpret it in a way that might make it mean a lot to them. Though I still hope that people see the patterns and hints and try to figure out what it all means. I'm playing around with the idea of making a video game that ties into all the lore but that would obviously be a big undertaking for someone like me, but I feel like there would be a lot to explore there.

5. Can you share any of your favorite hidden story elements from the tracklisting of your albums? A: I mentioned it before, but the JUDAS II fourth wall break I think is incredibly cool. At one point the album “errors” and the video game OST shifts to titles in Greek and titles that hint to a character called the Eternal Jester. That is a big hint to the overarching story, because the next album I'm releasing isn't supposed to be an OST from the JUDAS game series, but from an entirely different game series. I wanted to find a way to connect all of the upcoming albums tying to this project and also offer an explanation of what happened in the other dimension (and maybe even ours).

6. What are your plans for releasing new music in the future? A: VEXER is still being worked on, and it's almost finished, but it has 2 singles out called ESCALATOR and CYBERDEMON. I also wanted to make JUDAS III and I have a few more ideas for different game OSTs lying around. And an actual video game is still a dream, and ofcourse I'd make music for that, so hopefully that would be a thing in the future.

[recitedemise]

It isn't as though it's his first time feeling lost. Goodness, even before this unfortuitous waking, he had fallen long and hard from his seat by god. He wishes that were proverbial, too, palming at his orb as he violently lurches. Still, he had known his duty, retreating to a cavern to waste in death, but the land has shifted and the seas have turned...and home, his home, is smote to dust. Yes. The world he had loved has changed through flame. Both literally and not, Gale's life he had known has left without him, and looking over, this man, this Caleb, has felt it, too. Surely. That tongue can't offer a viper's words. "And not to be forgotten," Gale suggests, "it's working diligently to convince me that I don't belong. Not that I don't appreciate some shared camaraderie, mind you, but I sincerely hope you'd found your footing. One of us has to, I'm afraid, or we may never leave here."

He's weak-kneed.

And were his heart not weeping, it certainly is now.

Gale, with a fervent focus, hangs stubborn to his words like some blasted marionette. Of course, he can't claim innocence, having still that orb to remind him, after all, but as far he knew, his ruin was singular. In other words, his folly hadn't doomed the whole of the world. Suddenly, fear barrels though him like a flogging whiplash of ice and snow. But what if he had helped? What if his burden razed his home? Perhaps he can't recall it, blind and deaf as he'd fell into slumber, but what if his body had wrought their devastation? What if, gods damned him, he had brought their end? Gale listens, and with every given word, those eyes, his expression, falls darker and colder. Caleb offers his words, tone careful, measured, but undeniably warm. He longs for it truly, having slept so long in endless shadow, but want is not paramount to must and should. He had sought godhood -- and now, all's ruined.

What if. The mage suddenly rises. What if he'd gone and killed them all? Gale looks to him, wondering how great Caleb's loss had been. Horribly, the silence now jeers what more can you take? A lot more. He steadies himself. His orb thunks, his brain pounds, but his heart roars fiercer. "I'm afraid it is exactly that: a chance," he starts. "And if not, of course, then I must insist we change that. This has all been...eye-opening, truly, Caleb Widogast, but there are whole centuries, kingdoms that would span between us. There is no mortal explanation that would reason our meeting as either natural or sane. As loathed as I am say to this, I must say that my acquainting with you is our juncture from where we part -- but you are certainly well read, as expected from a wizard. I say this with an intimate knowledge, but those mages of Avalir were...fatally proud." Oh. That orb howls to them again. Maybe, Caleb Widogast, you had found man's killer.

Yet, still, somewhere aching in voice: do not leave me.

Blue eyes soften with empathy as he watches the strange mage's expressions flicker between confusion, grief, and disbelief. He can only imagine the shock of waking to find the world you knew has crumbled to dust. Nine hundred years… it is unfathomable. Caleb himself has experienced loss, betrayal, the feeling of having your very identity stripped away. But this… to lose everything and everyone you ever knew in what feels like the blink of an eye... his heart sympathizes for this man and he cannot help but believe him. "I cannot pretend to understand exactly what you are feeling," Caleb begins gently, "But I do know the pain of loss. Of having your world shattered and reformed into something… unrecognizable." He takes a breath, steeling himself for the tale he must tell. The words taste bitter on his tongue.

"The records recovered speak of Avalir's might and splendor. A beacon of arcane achievement, pushing the boundaries of what was possible with magic." Caleb's voice is soft, reverent almost. He can’t help it, there is a natural curiosity to this era of time for anyone well-studied in magic. "But they also speak of hubris. Of mages drunk on their own power, seeking to ascend to godhood itself." Much like the Matron of Ravens herself. His eyes flick to meet Gale's chestnut one, searching, wondering how much the man already knows. "The accounts vary on the specifics but they say Avalir's mages delved too deep into magics beyond their control. That they tapped into powers never meant for mortal hands. And it… destroyed them. Destroyed everything." Caleb swallows hard, his voice barely above a whisper now. "Avalir fell from the sky in a cataclysm. Leylines shifted, the Weave reformed. The Age of Arcanum ended and the Calamity began."

The ginger-haired man falls silent for a moment, letting the weight of his words sink in. He cannot meet Gale's expression, instead staring at his own hands clasped tightly in his lap. "I am sorry, truly. Sorry that you had to learn of it this way." After a pause, he looks up again, something fierce and determined in his gaze. "But you are not entirely alone. I may not be of Avalir, but I am a wizard, like yourself. And I believe our meeting here was not mere chance."