#i forgot how fun it was to make crafts even if they were simple

[ugartecoco]

felt a little shit so i decided to make origami and now i have a paper shark friend +10 happiness

[thatawkwardmoth]

In honor of it being my birthday (I'm 20 now bitches, made it), I give you people celebrating Scott's birthday. Because he is a fellow Virgo, I know it in my soul.

Jean: bakes him a cake and makes him dinner. The one meal he likes and eats all the time. Her soup. It's a simple recipe and she stopped making it as much so Scott could expand his palate a little more. It doesn't but she makes it for him on his birthday. She gets him a gag gift and an actual gift. The gag gift is usually something like a card that says a really bad dad joke just so his face drops as he reads it. She's thoughtful with her gift and doesn't pry into his mind for it. She knows her husband.

Emma: Buys him a small cupcake and has him blow it out early in the morning. It's a private moment between them. Scott doesn't like that much attention on him, especially on his birthday so she keeps it between the two of them. She spends a ridiculous amount of money on model plane sets, knowing he enjoys making them in the rare instances of free time he gets and adds a little more spending money on the budget for the Blackbird so her nerdy boyfriend can have his fun upgrading it.

Rachel: as a child in her home timeline, she'd wake him up early, screeching about it being his birthday and getting him a present with mommy. She'd count herself lucky a few times that Scott's optic beams don't harm people with his genetics with how roughly she shook him. Nowadays, she leaves a card and a gift on his desk. The first few years, it was basic stuff with no thought behind it, thinking Scott wouldn't want personal gifts from her, just ties and supplies. Then it turned to science fiction memorabilia that the two shared a love for. She doesn't outright tell him happy birthday, just leaves the stuff on his desk.

Nathan: as a baby and a child, same as Rachel. Jean would dump him on the bed to distract Scott and head off. The two just spent the day together. His gifts were usually drawings and small crafts made with some students' help. More presently, it's usually alcohol or favors traded. Showing up for family dinner with Hope so Scott can have his whole family there.

Madelyne: Wakes up early to put on the right music, spends time just dancing with him. He enjoys the quiet moments before the rush of birthday well wishes. She makes a lopsided treat for him and new books he's been wanting to read but won't buy himself. She has to, he deserves this day to mean something.

Alex: Usually annoys him first, making fun of his age. Buys him a card and a round of drinks. Scott likes to feel useful but Alex takes the lead on their hangout days. They sightsee, go to aircraft shows and museums. He gets Scott a few more puzzles, teases him, enjoys seeing his uptight brother smiling and relaxing for once. He's happy to celebrate with his brother after years of not being able to. He's glad to have another year with his older brother.

Corsair: completely forgot, came back three months later with a lame cheap space book that isn't correct at all and is from an Earth thrift store.

Charles: Ignored it. Just didn't say anything.

Ororo: Forcibly made him give up leadership for the day. Of everything. She's in charge and she demands he spends the day relaxing. She gets him a tea, something he prefers over coffee, and locks him out of the danger room.

Logan: Gets him drunk at their usual bar, let's him rant drunkenly about whatever. Is careful to not start fights with him that day. Challenges him to a race on their motorcycles just to have Scott take a ride with him.

Warren: Expensive gifts but from the heart. His assistant didn't buy the gift for him. Warren spent two months finding out all the details and information he needed to gift Scott with all the proof that he'd donated a large sum of money to mutant charities and an even larger amount to an orphanage for mutant children. He gets Scott other gifts but this one means a lot to Scott in a way another book or trinket doesn't.

The team/mansion/island: Doesn't throw a party for him. He's antisocial and hates them. But all day he gets quiet well wishes and cards. He gets small favors and free drinks. They're all careful to not make a big deal out of it but to show him that they care.

[mister-e-muss]

Time for the first backlog report from 2025

Super Mario RPG:

It truly is remarkable just how much this game has done. This was originally a Super Nintendo game created jointly by Square Enix. So very much of it has gone on to become Mario RPG foundations. A penchant for humor, actions that require timings for the player to squeeze the most damage out of, even playable Bowser all got its start here.

Even without much of the extended lore and ideas from the Mario universe, square managed to craft an excellent game with a fun world and an engaging, if rather simple story.

Yoko Shimamura does excellent work in the soundtrack, making something that sounds very Mario while also sounded very distinct. (Although I am of the opinion that the remake’s version doesn’t quite have the same impact.)

As an added bonus: It’s Short. For the genre, 12 hours is Nothing. I’m finding that to be a plus more and more, because if I’m not having fun, it can’t drag on. Even games I like can get weary when I’m on hour 50 of 100. Being able to finish this on a trip was a great experience.

Final Fantasy IX:

The right game can come at the wrong time. Some of them that you may have not liked at first deserve second chances. This was my experience with Final Fantasy IX. I’d started it in college, but found that it didn’t quite grab me for how hyped its fans talk about it. (Renowned YouTube personality ProJared goes so far as to describe it as ‘the platonic ideal of Final Fantasy.’) I initially found its characters to be one-note, and its world to be bland and uninteresting. I’m someone who always appreciates a dash of science to my fantasy, and the way VII and VIII blurred the lines between genres was one of the things that set them apart from dozens of other games. My initial feeling was that in trying to pursue idealized fantasy, Square had forgotten to make anything unique in this world. I was about seven hours in, just past Gizamaluke, and not really disabused of this opinion when I forgot about this game entirely.

Then, late last year, I decided to restart the game and see if it could grab me this time. And I loved it.

While the soundtrack is far from my favorite in the series, it’s still solid and provides more variety than I initially thought. The characters are charming, and the variation in their design makes for an interesting art style. Any complaints I had about IX perhaps lacking in imagination were completely blown out by the time I reached Cleyra. (Giant tree in the desert protected by giant sandstorm is such a tasty idea.) Even the supposed ‘pure fantasy’ complaint was undermined by mist technology and steam engines and artificially created Black Mages. Then the Invincible and Garland showed up and I had no legs to stand on.

I will say though that the ATB in this one was slow. The bars themselves fill up at a moderate pace, Haste is a late game ability, and there’s a noticeable pause between when you click on an option and when it happens. When you have all four party members, you’re basically just playing with regular turns. Previous games had magic take a few moments to cast depending on how strong it is, so you could squeeze in a Phoenix down while your healer was ready to cast. Here, actions play out exactly as they’re entered.

One thing that I can praise without caveat is the equipment and ability system. I initially took it to be grind-y and slow. Then I found out that you could learn abilities twice as fast if you have two pieces with the same ability on it, and the AP went from one of my least favorite aspects, to probably one of my favorite progression systems in FF. It’s nowhere near as deep or complex as the Materia and “Whatever-The-Hell-VIII-had-going-on” systems, but it’s also nowhere near as unwieldy. At it’s best, you have a system that lets you focus down more vital abilities while saving larger abilities as long-term goals.

If I were somehow in charge of a remake of IX, there are only a few adjustments I’d make.

1. Speed up the battles. Don’t change gameplay genres entirely, because the turn based gameplay isn’t something that needs ‘solving,’ but maybe make it so that my party doesn’t have a giant backlog of actions to take.

2. Voice acting. This game has plenty of cinematography and vibrant character design. Add a capable voice cast and these characters can truly live.

3. Make unavailable party members give up their equipment. Or at least allow the player to tweak their equipment even outside of the party. (It gets tiring buying two sets of armor because you can’t remember if you have enough for Steiner and Freya both.)

4. Maybe touch up the localization. There’s nothing grievously wrong with it, but Kuja probably shouldn’t talk quite so casually, considering the piano and class he has going on in his theme. (Freya didn’t read quite right to me either. IDK, someone who knows the Japanese script, correct me if I’m wrong.)

[dirtwatchman]

TIMING: Right after the bird demon is taken out LOCATION: Caleb's house PARTIES: Faleb (@dirtwatchman) and Wyatt (@loftylockjaw) SUMMARY: Faleb lets Wyatt come over after the shifter has had a rough week. It doesn't go the way either of them planned. CONTENT WARNINGS: None...except trauma for the characters...well, character, really.

Pretending to be somebody else wasn’t as hard as people would think. A thorough look into the life of Caleb Ellsworth and the fact that the man was so…simple made it very easy to convince everyone that he wasn’t currently locked away in a void state. It probably helped that he didn’t have too many close ties in life, at least none that knew him enough to discern the differences and clock that something was very off with him. The demon in his place had to wonder how the hell that Aesil thing had ruined it so spectacularly the first time around with people like the boyfriend around, someone who was also not very bright. 

But at least he was pretty to look at. The demon could appreciate Wyatt for what he was and there was no sense in letting go of having some fun before this town was turned on its axis, before his real work began. There was a hungry glint in his eyes as they raked over the other man, impatience tearing away at the facade he needed to keep up, but instead of giving in he found himself pushing lust aside so he could keep up appearances. There was no way that man would walk in here and not have Caleb fussing over the dark circles under his eyes or how hopeless he seemed to be. 

“You sure you don’t want to talk about it?” His voice was soft as he moved forward, hand coming up to rest against Wyatt’s cheek. “I can be a distraction if you really need it but I’m a little worried about you.” 

Of course this reminded him of the night he’d made one of his bigger mistakes that year — when he’d gone to Caleb in a time of distress, and when the other (who had turned out to not be Caleb at all) had suggested he sleep, which was the last thing he’d wanted to do, Wyatt had walked away from him. He’d made it seem like he was only there for sex (which hadn’t been the case, he’d just been so afraid to sleep), and Caleb had told him in no uncertain terms that he shouldn’t come back. Which was weird, considering it’d been a fucking demon at the time, but they’d both guessed that it had just been trying to get rid of Wyatt in case he started asking too many questions and threatening to ruin whatever plan the bastard had had.

Here he was again, standing in front of Caleb with a lot weighing on his mind and not knowing how to express it. He wanted to share everything with him, just like he’d promised he would, but it was… hard. So much harder now that he knew what his future held in store for him and felt certain there would be no changing it. 

The soft touch had him sighing, and it was a strangled sort of thing, like he was barely holding on to the mask he’d carefully crafted for himself tonight. Skin that felt cold against his cheek still sparking that warmth in his core that usually spread like wildfire, muted thanks to his own inner turmoil, crackling like a dying fire instead of the inferno it should have been. “I’m sorry, I know,” he breathed, leaning into the touch and begging the fire to eat him alive while also doing his best to kick dirt over it. God, it was exhausting being this conflicted. 

Even though it hadn’t been at the reins, Caleb had still watched him walk away that night. He couldn’t do that to him again. “I just… I got myself into a hard spot.” There was a beat of silence, the shifter letting his gaze drop to Caleb’s chest where he rested a hand. The stillness there could be eerie, sometimes, if he forgot and was expecting a heartbeat like Xochitl’s. “Kieran… or, well, what he can do to me, what he can make me feel with that magic he’s got, it’s… it’s good, but it’s bad. And I been goin’ to him for it a lot.” There was no mention of the faun that were strangers to him, paid for their meal and nothing else — how could he admit just how far he’d fallen? “Was startin’ to feel pretty numb otherwise. Felt like my only option. I… I ain’t proud of it, but…” He sniffed, forcing himself to meet Caleb’s gaze. “Just found out not that long ago that it could kill me. Maybe not, but… don’t think I’m ever gonna be the way I was before.” Sucking in a sharp breath, he tried to push past the heavy weight that sat on his chest like it wanted to crush him. “So I just… I wanna enjoy whatever time I got left, but I don’t… wanna put you through nothin’ that’s too painful for you.”

Whatever he was expecting, it hadn’t been that. The demon had seen the messages between Wyatt and Caleb about this faun, he knew that the two of them had a good time with him a while back, but wouldn’t Caleb know if the shifter was addicted to that feeling? Secrets were a damning thing in any relationship on the earthly plane, romantic or not, and it always irritated him how quickly they could destroy. In his world, secrets were necessary. That’s how it should have been here. But past messages seared into his brain told him that Caleb wouldn’t enjoy knowing that something was being kept from him. Still, the man was always such a doormat, so eager to let others find their comfort instead of finding his own, that he was sure he would have hidden the hurt that came from it and focused on Wyatt. Maybe that's what love was? A willingness to let go of the hurt in favor of the other’s needs.

Taking the hand pressed against Caleb’s chest into his own, he laced their fingers together. “You know I went into this knowing I was going to lose you at some point, right? I think it’s too late to worry about the pain of it all.” What did someone who never experienced devotion the way that Caleb experienced it say in a moment like this? This was a time when he wished he could have access to those limited thoughts the zombie carried around but this was the disadvantage of being a replica and not taking him over completely the way Aesil had. Taking a stab at it would have to do. “But I’d like you here with me as long as I can have you, Wyatt. You don’t want to stop, do you?” 

Which was���irrelevant. The town would soon be destroyed with Wyatt inside of it so it didn’t matter but he couldn’t come out and say that. As much as he knew Caleb would fight against this he was tempted to tell the man to call Kieran right then and there to take in whatever joy he could get in their limited time. Something was already shifting, he could feel it. Leaning in, the demon pressed a soft kiss to Wyatt’s lips in an attempt to push that urge away. That wasn’t who Caleb was. He wouldn’t compromise this with so little time left to go. “I want to help you…but I don’t want to push you away either. Will you let me or is it going to drive us apart?”

And there it was: the truth of the matter. Wyatt was going to die before Caleb, that was a guarantee as long as no slayers became involved.

Fuck. Owen. It wasn’t fear that the man he’d once called a friend would go back on his word, but the fear of sharing that entire part of this story. That fear of telling Caleb that he’d saved the life of someone who had, at one point, threatened to kill him. Who would have, if he hadn’t felt so damn indebted to the shifter. 

“No,” he muttered in a small voice, “I don’t.” He was going to die before Caleb one way or another, so what did it matter? He’d taken it… surprisingly well, too. He wasn’t angry, or hurt in a way that was immediately obvious. Wyatt couldn’t tell if that was a bad thing or not. But the kiss was like a balm on his frayed nerves, and he leaned into it with a slight release of tension in his shoulders.

“I… I’ll let you help.” For whatever good it would do him. “I don’t wanna push you away.” Again. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to let it… get like this. I didn’t know it was… I thought I had it under control. I thought…” I thought I was just having some harmless fun as a pick-me-up. I thought I was just depressed about all the shit with Owen. About all the shit at the Pit, all the shit with me and my shifting. About Felix. Samir. 

His thoughts were interrupted by a far off boom, a sound like nothing he’d ever heard before. He gave a start, glancing at one of the windows for a moment before shaking his head – must have been a car backfiring. He looked back at Caleb, who was now wearing a strange expression. 

“... what’s wrong?”

“You didn’t know, Wyatt. Faun magic is tricky like that, you don’t have to apologize.” His fingers slid up Wyatt’s face to push some of his hair out of his eyes, not realizing that Caleb wouldn’t know how tricky faun magic could actually get. “I just…want to get you better.” The demon wasn’t thinking straight, wasn’t functioning correctly as he felt little jabs of pain start up all over his body. He could take pain, he wasn’t bothered by the physical elements of it but the fact that it was happening was not a good sign. Fuck, were the symbols being messed with? 

All of his focus was slipping away. Every last bit of his plagiarized persona was gone in an instant when it happened. His head turned at the same time Wyatt’s did, eyes widening at the sound that had cracked through the air. “No…” He could immediately feel himself slipping. His body was already weakening which only meant one thing; the greater demon was gone. How in the hell did this town keep surviving? How the fuck did they keep thwarting all the plans made by these higher beings? 

There wasn’t much time to dwell on it and Wyatt’s voice brought his attention back to the other man. No, he was not okay. Wyatt wasn’t about to be okay either.  A wicked smile pulled at his lips, head shaking softly with the thought of how this would affect the other as his body started to dissolve in Wyatt’s arms. One last malicious act for the road. At least he could go out knowing he caused a little grief in the end. “You’re such an idiot.” Famous last words.

All the quiet hopefulness he’d been clinging onto disappeared in an instant at Caleb’s final words, confusion and hurt taking its place. “Why—I don’t—” He didn’t have time to ask what the other meant, if that had been a playful name calling, or if he’d judged that look on his face correctly and it was malicious. Which felt unlikely until he considered just how upset Caleb might be with him for lying, and he hadn’t even told him the worst part, yet! He didn’t have time, because Caleb was shifting all of his weight onto Wyatt and slowly sinking to the floor. Wyatt went down with him, panicking as he tried to hold onto him tighter, only to find that he was… dissolving. Like black, wet sand, parts of him were falling away in clumps and the harder Wyatt squeezed, the faster it happened. 

“What’s happening?! How do I—” It didn’t make sense. None of this made sense. Was this a zombie thing? He didn’t fucking know, and seeing as how he’d not been of a right mind in several months, it felt just as plausible as anything else. 

He couldn’t even apologize one last time as the body in his arms disintegrated fully, coating his lap and the floor in a lumpy layer of… whatever that was. He was holding his breath, staring down at it with wide, terrified eyes as his hands grasped at the air like he was still trying to call Caleb’s body back to him. A soft, garbled wail started in his throat and he finally unfroze, scrambling to remove himself from the substance on the floor and get back to his feet. It got louder and stronger as he used the couch to help himself up, his eyes fixed on the middle of the floor. His chest heaved and he cut the scream short, ripping himself away from the sight of it and making a clumsy dash for the front door, bursting through it and right for his car as fast as his feet would take him. 

He didn’t know where he was going, only that it needed to be the fuck away from here.

[darkstar225]

Twice's 10th member is babysat by Kwon Eunbi

A/N: Heyyy, I'm coming up with a lot of stuff for you guys so I can make up for the time I'm gone lol! Sry for taking so long to post :D I hope that my friend LyraHarris8 who gave me this idea on Wattpad likes it! :)

The request: Hi I want to request can you do where the members have to go away for a day and they ask eunbi(kwon eunbi) to look after y/n as y/n were still a minor and eunbi adore y/n. Eunbi play with y/n all day and at night y/n ask eunbi to cuddle and she thought it was adorable. Y/n really love her eunbi unnie. Thank you ❤️

PS: Tysm for everyone who reads what I write, I hope I can bring a smile to your faces every time I post! I'd like to thank whoever sent me this idea 'cause I loved to write it <3

__________________________________________________________

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden hue over the bustling city of Seoul. It was a rare day off for TWICE, the K-pop sensation that had taken the world by storm. But even on their days off, there were responsibilities to be met, and today was no different.

Y/N, the youngest member of the group and still a minor, had been left in the care of Kwon Eunbi, a former member of IZ*ONE and a close friend of the TWICE members. Eunbi adored Y/N like a little sister, and she had eagerly agreed to look after the young idol for the day while the rest of TWICE attended various appointments and meetings.

Eunbi arrived at the luxurious apartment building where Y/N lived with her older sisters, her heart fluttering with excitement. She had planned a day full of fun activities to keep the young idol entertained. As she stepped into the lobby, she was greeted by Y/N, who was dressed in comfortable loungewear and had a bright smile on her face.

Y/N - Eunbi unnie! 

Y/N yelled as she rushed over to hug Eunbi. 

Y/N - I'm so glad you're here!

Eunbi returned the hug warmly, her heart melting at the younger girl's enthusiasm. 

Eunbi - I'm happy to be here, baby. We're going to have so much fun today!

TWICE's honey nodded eagerly, her eyes shining with anticipation. 

Y/N - What are we going to do first, unnie?

Eunbi pulled out a list of activities she had prepared. 

Eunbi - Well, first, we're going to start with some arts and crafts. How does that sound, love?

Y/N's eyes lit up. 

Y/N - That sounds amazing, unnie!

They spent the morning crafting together, making colourful friendship bracelets, painting pictures, and laughing as they got paint on their hands and faces. Eunbi was amazed at her dongsang's creativity and artistic talent. She marvelled at how such a young idol could be so mature and talented.

After finishing their arts and crafts, they moved on to baking cookies. TWICE's cutie pie insisted on decorating them with beautiful icing and sprinkles, creating a delicious mess in the kitchen. Eunbi couldn't help but laugh at the youngest's enthusiasm and the way her face lit up with every successful batch of cookies.

As the day wore on, Eunbi took Y/N to a nearby park, where they played on the swings, had a picnic, and ran around like carefree children. Eunbi couldn't help but be amazed at Y/N's boundless energy and joy. She was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life that Eunbi sometimes forgot in her busy idol schedule.

As the sun began to set, they returned to TWICE's dorm. Eunbi had one more surprise in store for the young idol. She had set up a cosy blanket fort in the living room, complete with fairy lights and fluffy pillows. Y/N's eyes widened in awe as she stepped inside.

Y/N - Wow, unnie! This is incredible! 

Eunbi - I thought you might like it, hon. Now, what do you say we watch a movie and have a little snack? *smiling*

Y/N nodded enthusiastically, and they settled down in the blanket fort with a bowl of popcorn and a stack of DVDs. They chose a heartwarming animated film and snuggled under the blankets, their laughter filling the room as they watched the movie together.

As the movie neared its end, Y/N turned to Eunbi with a shy smile. 

Y/N - Unnie, can I ask you something?

Eunbi turned to her, curious. 

Eunbi - Of course, darling. What is it?

TWICE's lovebug hesitated for a moment before speaking softly. 

Y/N - Can we... cuddle?

Eunbi's heart melted at the girl's request. She had always seen her as a little sister, but in that moment, she realized just how much the young idol looked up to her and trusted her. Without hesitation, Eunbi wrapped her arms around Y/N and pulled her close, cuddling with her under the soft blankets.

Y/N let out a contented sigh and snuggled closer to Eunbi, resting her head on Eunbi's chest.

Y/N - Thank you, unnie. I really love you.

Tears pricked at the corners of Eunbi's eyes as she held her little sister close. 

Eunbi - I love you too, sweet girl. You mean the world to me.

They stayed like that for a while, watching the stars through the window as the night grew darker. Eunbi couldn't have asked for a more perfect day with Y/N. She cherished these moments when they could just be themselves, away from the glitz and glamour of the idol world.

Eventually, Y/N's eyelids grew heavy, and she yawned. Eunbi gently tucked her in, making sure she was warm and comfortable.

Eunbi - Goodnight, angel. *whispering*

Y/N - Goodnight, unnie *murmuring since she's already drifting off to sleep*

Eunbi watched over Y/N for a while, her heart full of love and gratitude. She knew that being an idol could be challenging, but moments like these made it all worthwhile. She was determined to be the best unnie she could be for Y/N and all the other members of TWICE.

As Eunbi settled down to sleep herself, she couldn't help but smile, feeling truly blessed to have Y/N in her life. It was a day she would cherish forever, a day filled with love, laughter, and the sweetest cuddles from the youngest member of TWICE. And this made her have only one thought:

We all love our dear maknae.

A/N: I'm sorry for any errors, English is not my first language. Pls, let me know if there's something wrong, ty for reading <3

[grailfinders]

Fate & Phantasms #57F: Eric Bloodaxe

well now you've done it. look what happened, y'all've made fun of Eric Bloodaxe (the bloodaxe king) so much he up and left Fate entirely! he's set out to Eorzea to check out that free demo of hit MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn he's heard so much about. but he still wants to wear something slightly resembling his usual outfit, so he asked us to help out. that's right, we're making your favorite fate characters as glamour sets now! why not?

so to start with, if we want to look the part we need to start at character creation, and thankfully we won't even need to worry about getting horns from somewhere else, since the Au Ra race is kind enough to provide them for free!

admittedly he does still look a lot skinnier than I'd like, but that's just how mmo's tend to work, y'know? damn you, anime prettyboys! that being said, at least you'll always be able to swing a giant axe around if you play a Marauder. they definitely feel beserker-y too! run into literally every enemy and don't stop swinging until they're all dead, real easy gameplay.

we'll put all the real nitty-gritty stuff at the end, but for now our model's here so we'll talk about the fit. in order to put on any glamor (which allows you to make your armor look like whatever so you're not constantly mix-matching to get the best bonuses) you need to be level 30. I am not leveling a whole-ass character just for an April Fools bit, so our model this evening shall be Miss Akeminemi Homumomu. say hi Akeminemi.

we're going to make as much of our outfit as possible so you can wear this as early as possible, and with as little grinding as we can manage. to start off, let's talk weaponry. most of the crafted axes you can get are a little too clean to work as a proper bloodaxe, but you can at least match Eric's double-bladed style with a labrys, specifically a Spike Bronze Labrys as that is the lowest-level one we can make.

UPDATE: we found a weapon that matches Eric's blood axe much better! the end of the Extreme primal questline, "To Tussle with Gods", gives you tokens you can exchange for the Dual Haken.

your headgear is dead simple, as thanks to the average MMO player's obsession with their own face you can just toggle off the visual part of your helmet anyway, no crafting needed. score one for vanity!

your body is less so. while you can just not wear anything if you like living dangerously, most party members will appreciate you actually wearing armor as the party tank. in that case, you'll want to wear the Emperor's New Robe as a glamour, turning whatever armor you wear invisible! once you can glamor you can buy one from a nearby merchant for less than 100 gil, it's a steal. that being said, Akeminemi looks like a small child, so she'll be wearing a shirt for modesty's sake.

for your gloves, pick up some Goatskin Armguards and dye them a skintone, I think Pumpkin Orange works well enough for our purposes. boom. arms, guarded.

your Pants were the biggest sticking point here- there aren't many skirtlike options you can make that still have metal on them, especially in early game. if you've got the time or you're already high level, the Light Steel Subligar is the only one I could find that's craftable. that being said I've beaten the basegame and I still can't make the damn thing, so we're using the Brand-new Trousers as a substitute. you get them as part of the main story quests, so it's still easy enough to get.

finally, for Eric's big stompy boots grab some Bronze Sabatons and darken them with some Kobold Brown Dye. so, let's see how it looks all together, shall we?

absolutely terrifying. happy April Fools Day, y'all!

(oh right, the specifics, almost forgot)

for character creation:

pick Au Ra, the Xaela variant set height to max tail style 3, reduce size to min face 1 skin color: row 16, column 4 hair style: row 6, column 1 hair color: row 8, column 7 jaw 4 eye style 2, with large irises eye color: row 12 column 4 no limbal rings (he's not a cat now, c'mon) eyebrow style 6 nose 5 mouth 3 default lip color only use the eyebrow addons under the "other" options no facepaint and voice #12

and again, his outfit is Spiked Bronze Labrys Emperor's New Robe Goatskin Armguards (dyed Pumpkin Orange) Brand-New Trousers (or Light Steel Subligar) Bronze Sabatons (Dyed Kobold Brown)

[humanwithfourheads]

Je suis humain.

I am human.

Humanity is a fickle thing. It’s constantly changing, at least, depending on who was asked. What does humanity mean to them? It can mean a lot of things, it can mean desire, family, the look of the skin and the body that holds the physical property of humans. The perspective of people is what made that definition.

It was a topic that made Antoine think. This idea that humanity was made up of the exact thing it was meant to define, humans, was beautifully crafted in a way. It wasn’t true by any means but the thought was there and it was so sweet.

The floating palace home had been coming along quite nicely. It had a lovely view of their moon and the shit towers beneath it. Nostalgia had been what drove him to craft the four pillars. Something as simple as dirt can be pretty too. Nobody really thinks about that. There’s so many prettier materials, why would dirt be their first choice? They forget the dirt is what holds them day by day in the cradle of a universe expanding beyond everyone’s earthly existence.

Oh! Dirt is also just fun. It can grow stuff and has smaller bits of rocks in it.

Stepping back for a better view Antoine gave a satisfied hum. The windows looked nice. The first wall wasn’t done but stepping back to see the progress of his creation is always so pleasing. Change was always happening and building was a perfect example of that.

This project has been keeping them busy. They still visit Pomme to take care of her of course. A lot has happened though, she knows that, she watches from afar like watching hamsters in a wheel spinning. The timing might have been bad to announce his newfound communication abilities, but oh well, Antoine hopes they know that while she doesn’t understand the fuss she’s glad most of them came out unharmed. That death message had given him a moment of shock, it didn’t stay as it never does, but it was definitely a surprise. Hm. Mortality was a rope their universe defied wasn’t it?

Moving on, Antoine smiled. She usually was but this time it was for a good reason. There was a mark left on this world by him. Something done by his two hands that would forever sit on in this world even if it were to one day slip into the distance of time.

“C'est parfait.” It was. It was perfect to them and that’s what mattered most. It didn’t need to be perfect to anyone else but her and that’s why it was special. Sure, Antoine would show their work off, but the responses of his friends mattered very little. What mattered was how it was to him.

Antoine approached the first wall, fishing out the blueprints from their bag. They weren’t very sure about their placement of the windows and just needed to double check that he had done it right. Perfection wasn’t what he was chasing but they just wanted to make sure it was correct so far.

As Antoine studied the glass she caught her reflection beaming back at her. The cardboard box smile greeted them with a loopy expression. Antoine was alone that day, no Pomme, so she wasn’t as bothered to hide their form with their robes. Their dark hands with red tops and claw-like nails visible holding the contrast of the blueprints.

Sometimes Antoine forgot his appearance wasn’t the most human resembling. It used to be. Hell, even on the plane to the island it was. She can recall as the flight progressed the ill feeling of being wrong creeping down their spine. The shock of running to the cramped bathroom to see his face fading into inky depths again. The disguise of human skin was slipping and only got worse the closer to the island the plane got. Antoine had taken some random box left stored away and drew silly expressions to distract from it, not that Antoine found it ugly, just that Antoine didn’t want their friends to be put off and ask questions. No one questioned it. It was Antoine, of course Antoine would do something silly like that! Wearing a box on her head! Being on the island though it worsened. The disguise wouldn’t come up anymore, his old form of skin wasn’t coming back.

Poetic, in a way, thinking about that now. That face died so many years ago but the person never did. That human lost their soul only to be graced again by the universe with the chance to walk once more. Antoine was lucky, he thought, looking into the glass. Those who are given second chances don’t always come back the same. She did. That weak humanity is still intact in their mind racing with the fear of life and death, but not the universe. The universe took their hand and showed them the course soil they walk on.

If the box was off Antoine would look fond. How could he not? It was a gift to be human again. Every few years that thought comes up and it’s such a loving memory to her.

Taking a final look at the glass Antoine picked up quartz and began to add fine details to the first wall. Soon the palace would be finished and there would be another mark in this world. This time the goal was to work until the two moons sat above each other waving like old friends of the world. Perhaps they could have a castle-warming party to celebrate? Maybe not. After that last party he had witnessed with her second pair of eyes it didn’t seem wise to try and have a party. Oh well. There’s only one thought Antoine holds for certain.

I am human.

Je suis humain.

[C'est parfait - It’s perfect]

[artemismakesdeer]

Fire Emblem: Engage -- A Brief Review

So, I finished Fire Emblem: Engage last week and with the game leaving such an impression on me I feel like sharing my thoughts and opinions on this tactical, turn based, "animesque" beast. It's not every day I play a Fire Emblem game (and it's even the first time I finished one!)

With my limited experience with the franchise, I can't draw comparisons on how the game stacks against the predecessors. As someone with almost no previous experiences with FE, this is a review for other people in a similar position.

so...

Is it worth it?

Yes, with a few caveats.

In terms of gameplay, the game is phenomenal, with long engaging battles that often felt like puzzles to unravel. Very often I'd find myself sinking over 30 minutes in a chapter without ever noticing the time pass me by. Combat is complex enough to offer many different challenges and a good variety of solutions for said challenges, with a richness of classes, characters, weapons, and abilities that always kept the game fresh from start to finish.

It's when the game leaves the Chapters and "Paralogues" (the name given to sidequests with unique rewards such as units) that enjoyment starts to suffer...

Fire Emblem: Engage suffers from a plethora of side activities that range from useful, but boring, to entirely pointless and extremely boring. The small minigames and interactions you can have with other characters in the main hub are repetitive, but reward you in ways that always made me feel like I'd be putting myself at a disadvantage. I would often dread the moment of going back to my home base knowing I'd have to do the exercise minigame, the fishing minigame, have a meal with two other characters, pet the local domestic spirit... It got tired extremely fast.

However, the biggest culprits were definitely the random battles always cropping up in already completed maps and, especially, the Tower of Trials. Very quickly I realized they were but a waste of my time, giving me pitiful rewards for prolonged battles that lacked the creativity and charm of the actual Chapters and Paralogues. In both cases, I gave them a try then just forgot they existed and felt no loss.

And then there is the story.

I've seen much criticism leveraged towards the plot and characters, and I would agree that much of it is justified, although I myself I had no personal problem with the game's story. It is simplistic, tropey, and campy, but if you come in knowing what to expect you might still find yourself having a good time and the camp (I would even argue the camp is the best part).

But truly, what harms the story the most is marked low quality of most of the game's "cutscenes". While the few pre-rendered cutscenes are a joy to watch and very well animated, those are far in between. The vast majority is simple dialogue boxes over barely moving characters in front of backgrounds that are very often just static PNGs, and the contrast is quite jarring.

In Conclusion

Fire Emblem: Engage is a very fun game when it does what it does best: engaging uniquely crafted turn based battles that make the most of its character driven tactical RPG gameplay. Whenever it drifts from that, the fun factor starts to degenerate at a disturbingly rapid pace.

I can recommend it, but I ask that you know what you're getting yourself into before buying. If you can get past the camp, the atrociously low quality cutscenes, and the excessive amount of boring and sometimes pointless side activities, you might just find a beautiful gem of a game hiding underneath.

[httpsfmpyear2]

EVALUATION

Media and techniques

For my project, I created a 2.5D open world exploration game. I learned how to make a 2D character animation blueprint so that I could have them animate in different ways depending on the circumstances. For example, I could make my character go from an idle animation to a running animation depending on the character's velocity. I’ve never created a state machine before, even for a 3D project, so doing something like this was completely new to me, and I’m glad I’ve learned a more effective way of changing the sprites animation depending on the state they’re in. I was only able to learn this by using YouTube videos, but I was able to figure things out further by testing out different issues by myself. On top of that, I was able to learn how to make an inventory system to allow the player’s to carry objects. This was a must have as I needed some way to link my initial idea stated in my project proposal of creating a quest system to my game, and having an inventory system was a must for the system so that the player could have a way of seeing all of the things they have picked up, and check if they had enough of it. Again, I had to use YouTube videos for this because a proper inventory system is a complicated process that I couldn’t do without some help.

Purpose / theme / concept

I did need to alter the main genre of the game from sandbox to open-world. Even though I did add in a sandbox element right at the end, I still wanted to change it to open world to make the genre more what I intended it to be rather than something that I didn’t mean it to be. I also had to add in the part about it being modern mediaeval. I solved most of my problems in my project by going through any failed pieces of code, and adding in print strings so that I could see which part of it was failing. After finding out which parts of the code were failing, I would check to see if it was just a simple spelling mistake, or if I forgot to add in the execute node. I didn’t have to make too many changes other than that to make sure my project fits with my proposal. The main drive of the game was for it to be an open world game in the first place, so simply changing the genre in my project proposal seemed to be the only needed change.

Outcome

I don’t think I quite met my expectations for this project. I think my project started off well and strong, but then it started to fall off a little. I think I definitely could’ve added a lot more to make the player’s experience a lot more enjoyable. Compared to my previous project, I think this is a big improvement. I learned things I didn’t think I would be able to do, and I also made my first fully open world game, but I don’t think this turned out as good as it could’ve been. I think that the game could use a lot more quests, and maybe even a multiplayer option so that you can at least have fun with your friends. I feel like there should be a crafting option too so that you could possibly make improvements to your items. On top of that, there should’ve probably been some sort of special effects you could get from consuming certain items. However, it did meet the briefing I set out, so in terms of that, it was an okay outcome for what I set out to do. Should I have done more though, yes. Yes I should’ve.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I think I would give this an overall score of okay. I do like a lot of the things I had made for the game, in terms of the code and what the player is able to do, but I would definitely want to add a lot more things into this to make the experience a lot better. As mentioned before, I’d like to add in a lot more features. I feel like there really isn’t too much to do, and it doesn’t have much replay value. For games, replay value is essential otherwise you won’t be able to have player’s come back and enjoy the experience. My game feels more like a one time only game and then you don’t touch it again. If I were to make this again, I would like to add some story to it. I feel like if I had another project after this one, I would stick to story driven games. I feel like that is my favourite thing to make, and I think I do a better job in that genre than all the others. I think I could’ve added a few more pieces of research for my project, but I think I have enough for it to be classed somewhere after the minimum. I think adding in a few more side-quests would’ve at least extended the duration of play time, but for a base minimum product, it’s okay.

[fyodoro]

oddly specific but can you do the wansho characters making rubber band/bead and string bracelets n necklaces with the reader lol ty in advance

Paper Rings

Featuring Tsukasa Tenma, Emu Otori, Nene Kusanagi and Rui Kamishiro

Bullet point format this time :,) sorry anon. But i hope it’s still to your liking… also sorry for the wait

Tsukasa Tenma

Tsukasa loves doing crafts. Although it’s not his real task at the Wonder Stage, he often helps make the props

So when Tsukasa found a bag of beads with strings next to it, he had a brilliant idea.

He brought home the bag and string and presented it to you with a childlike glimmer in his eye, he actually looked really excited!

“(Name)! Let’s make each other bracelets with these!”

Of course you accepted, who wouldn’t? And even if you didn’t want to, it’d feel like a crime not too

You and Tsukasa sat on the floor of his room for a good few hours making all different kinds of jewelry, ranging from bracelets to necklaces

It was sweet quality time with one another, and when the accessories were finished, you two would never take them off.

Knowing that these were handmade and specifically for the other, you both loved to brag about them. Especially Tsukasa

If someone were to ask him where he got his bracelet and or necklace from…

“Ah! My s/o made it just for me! Isn’t it perfect?”

Emu Otori

This is of course Emu’s idea

You went over to her house to help clean her room, and in the process, finding an old bag of beads with rubber bands and string

When she caught sight of what was in your hands, Emu forgot entirely about cleaning her room. That was too boring- this isn’t though

“(Name) (Name)! Let’s make a bunch of bracelets!”

You wouldn’t decline of course, never would you dream of declining it. Emu dragged you to a clean corner of her room and emptied the bag on the ground

Neither of you really cared about the bigger mess that would need to be cleaned up in a few hours, so there was a bit more freedom with how much you two could make

Of course, you made those bracelets. Not just for you and her- but also the rest of WxS and Emu’s friends at the Girl’s Academy

But you also made necklaces, anklets, rings, and a weirdly shaped dinosaur?

Emu would wear and display what you made for her with pride. She’s keep a bracelet on her wrist but also another connected to her bag, so if anyone were to ask…

“It’s from my s/o! Do you want one as well? I have plenty!”

Nene Kusanagi

Nene didn’t expect her day to be spent like this, not at all.

This was your idea- to make bracelets for each other as well as other accessories. Nene of course accepted your offer, though she doesn’t know crafts that well…

So you needed to teach her how to make a simple bracelet, guiding her hand to the string and connecting them with different beads

Once Nene got the hang of it, she enjoyed this quite a lot!

“(Name), I didn’t think this would be so fun… thank you..”

You told her there’s no need to thank you, and to just enjoy the process and quality time, to which she did

Nene made more bracelets than you thought, even more than you made!

She wouldn’t say it out loud, but she felt accomplished by making you smile

You two didn’t pick and choose which ones you wanted, and only took all the ones the other had made. Unless there was one you’d want to keep-

Nene will wear multiple of your bracelets at once, stacked on her wrist. It’s quite noticeable when her sleeve is slightly rolled, so when she’s asked about it…

“Oh these… they’re from my s/o. Do you also think they look good?”

Rui Kamishiro

Rui has plenty of experience with crafts- after all, he is an inventor and director

This wouldn’t really be either of your ideas, rather something that just happened naturally

Rui was working on a new mascot for the Wonder Stage, and was trying all sorts of designs. One of which being an arm full of beaded bracelets

You saw this and how much work it would be on his own, so you of course assisted him

“Ah dear (Name), you really don’t have to. But if it’s what you want to do, I don’t mind.”

You two are creating these bracelets for hours, focused on a perfect bracelet not only for the mascot, but also each other

Rui at this point is determined to make you multiple of these bracelets as well. Not only for helping him but also because he just wanted to

Your behalf is doing the exact same thing. You two chuckle at the fact you were thinking the exact same the whole time

Rui is not ashamed to wear all the bracelets you gave him, or hook it onto his bag. He feels pride swell up in his chest when someone asks him where he got it from

“I didn’t get this from anywhere, in fact, it was my s/o who made it for me. It looks lovely, doesn’t it?”

[zer0stormz]

Fav games I played in 2022 #2 - The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky

Trails in the Sky was a big surprise for me. I didn't know how much I would like it but I ended up loving it a lot!!!! I really vibed with it, it was a cozy JRPG. I enjoyed the slower pace and how it wasn't focused on big having to save the world things from the get go. The game did a great job of building up its world, the NPC interaction were great. You could talk to them at many different points and see what they have been getting up to, and it feels like a real breathing world that doesn't just revolve around your party.

The party was great. I absolutely love Estelle, she is easily one of my fav game protagonists. She's just so equally badass, dorky and adorable. Same can be said about Joshua too. Ahhhh the two are just so freaking cute together, I love them so much!!!! ALSO I LOVE LOVE LOVE TITA SO MUCH. She's just so sweet and precious and deserves all the hugs in the world she's so cute akjsddkjsf. I love all the other party members you come across as well. They all have so much personality and seeing the bonds form over time is great.

I also loved the story. I liked how we started with a bunch of small time quests and errands as we travelled the country and how it built upon itself. They set the stage for its world and the politics surrounding the countries. They weren't too heavy about it, you could find books/newspapers along your travel that would go deeper as you like which I thought was a great touch. It also felt satisfying completing the game even though it was really just a chapter of a much greater story (the ending OMG, it makes you really want to go start the next right away!!!!).

The combat was enjoyable. It's a simple turn based combat but you can move around the field. The positional component was nice, and I enjoyed how you could manipulate turns and use S-Crafts to interrupt and delay opponents turns. It added more depth to a simple system. I also liked looking around for the shining poms so I could farm them to get up to level quickly without having to grind a lot of normal mobs. Also I love the evil penguins. They are so freaking strong and adorable and the best!!!

The Trails series is quickly rising to be one of my fav series. I started Trails in the Sky: Second Chapter, really enjoying how the story was going though I've been on a bit of a hiatus from it (i will definitely be picking it back up though!!!). I love the mix of humor and serious moments, the characters are some of my favs, and it's just such a cozy fun series!!! There's a lot of missable things though which is my one bummer, I keep a guide on me at all times just to make sure I don't miss anything, this is the one RPG series where I really want to do everything I can!!! OH ALSO ALMOST FORGOT TO SAY BUT I LOVE THE CHESTS. If you check the treasure chests after opening them there's a lot of funny dialogue!!! These games just have so much good little details!!!!

[tpwkxxangel]

Is this the real life? pt. 4

**not my photo**

my masterpost; fic masterlist; part 1; part2; part 3

[warnings: alcohol consumption, language, angst?]

Screaming, crying, throwing up. Multitasking if you will.

That’s all I’ve wanted to do for the past 24 hours. I’ve been going through the motions of life trying to hold myself together instead of going into a fangirl meltdown. Since I read Harry’s message, my brain has gone blanks.

@/Harry_Styles: Hey Y/N! I was just wanting to check in and see how you were doing after the show last night? -H

Such simple words that caused my brain to malfunction.

He knows I exist. I know that’s so stupid of a statement to finally absorb when I literally held a conversation with him, but how am I expected to function now that he knows I exist?

What makes matters worse, is that I haven’t even told the group chat. I can’t just shoot a text saying ‘Hey! My day’s been great. The meeting went well, I got an extra set of those cool detachable erasers ... oh and Harry DM’ed me on Twitter.’

That would not go over well at all. Luckily we have our weekly zoom session tonight so I can discuss the knowledge of my existence with them face to face.

Now what makes me nervous is the fact that I’ve left him on read for more than 24 hours now. What if he doesn’t want to talk to me now? What if I took too long and he forgot about me? What if--

I physically shake myself from my thoughts. My friends will know what to do. I pop the bottle of wine open and grab the bottle and a glass before making my way to my room. We have our ‘Weekly Wine Night’ as Dove calls it.

I pull up the zoom app on my laptop before starting the meeting and sending everyone the link. It usually takes them a few minutes to join, so I pour myself a hefty amount of wine in the glass before taking a leisurely sip.

“Hey bitches! Who’s ready to get fucked up?” Rachel raises her own glass of pink wine to the camera as everyone pops up.

We all laugh at her antics. She’s often the first one to pop the bottle and last to put it down. A party animal through and through and we couldn’t love her more.

“Ugh, can I go first this week? I have to tell you guys about the customer that I had to deal with on Wednesday,” Katie rolls her eyes, “It was like a wild Karen entered the building and I was not having it!”

She proceeds to tell us about a woman who entered her arts and crafts store to pick up an order, but wouldn’t leave once she received it. She tried to get a refund and store credit when she threw a fit over nothing.

We all laugh and talk about other stories of our week, some about people from high school who were blasting their lives all over Facebook.

For the first time since his message, I actually feel somewhat centered. We all met about two years ago. We were all placed into a group chat with a very very controlling fan. She branded herself as the ‘leader’ of our group when we were all trying to have fun on Twitter. When Harry started to promote his new album, the fans went crazy with new theories about the tracklist and things. She stole all our ideas and tweeted them as her own. It was just a very toxic environment, so we were sure to move chats and block her from all platforms.

“Anything interesting on your end, Y/N?” Dove asks noticing my far off expression.

“Um,” I take another sip of wine hoping to ease the words that come next, “I received an interesting DM yesterday.”

“Was it from that account that got suspended and is trying to get their ratio back using their back up account again?” Sofie rolls her eyes.

I laugh, because I did get one of those yesterday too, “No, no, um, this one was from Harry.”

Everyone quiets down. I think they are waiting for me to say ‘just kidding’ or ‘gotcha’ but I figured I might as well tell them now before I ignore Harry anymore.

“You’re joking right?” Katie asks.

I shake my head pulling up the chat to show them. “I low-key wish I was, but” I hold up my phone and show them the screen.

It’s like proof was all they needed to unfreeze.

“Y/N! STOP IT RIGHT NOW! WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL US?” Dove shouts into the screen.

I hold my hands up in defense. “I didn’t know how to handle it! I’ve been in love with this man since I was like 13 and now, he’s messaging me over Twitter and not remaining the fictional character in my head! What am I supposed to respond?” I pout in defense.

Rachel rolls her eyes, “What’s the real reason?”

Ugh. Leave it to your friends to see through your pretenses.

I look down for a moment at the intimidating message. “It should be simple right?” I look back up at my quiet friends with a fake smile. “I’m a fan of his who has followed his every movement throughout the years. I’ve built up an immunity to his surprises, so why is it so hard to believe he would want to check up on me? Why would he give me the time of day after everything was done with back at that stadium?” I shrug with a self-deprecating laugh.

“Okay first off, you are one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met and he should feel lucky to even talk to you,” Dove says calmly, “Secondly, this is very much real, and you have a chance to talk to him.

“Yeah,” Katie tags on, “He wouldn’t have sent you that message if he truly didn’t want to hear back from you.”

“Oh my gosh! Do you think he was looking on stan twitter hoping they would find your user?” Rachel asks.

“That sounds a little far fetched,” Sofie says unsure.

“Oh I’m pretty sure he has a stan account floating around somewhere. He knew we measure his life according to his hair length,” I roll my eyes at the memory. I take another sip of wine and look up at the ceiling before sighing. “I’m gonna message him.”

A round of cheers sounds while I think of a reasonable response. How the heck to I do this?

@/yourusername: Hi Harry! I’m doing well. I flew back home yesterday, so I wasn’t able to get back to you sooner. The post concert depression is hitting, but I’m super excited to see you next week. Hope you’re doing well!

“There. I sent something,” I lift the phone up to show them before putting it face down on my desk, “He’s probably doing singer things you know. Like I probably won’t hear back from him anytime soon. Maybe he didn’t even notice I didn’t message back right aw--”

The sound of a tweeting bird interrupts me. We all look at each other wide eyed.

“Y/N?” Katie quietly whispers, “Who was that?”

Sofie’s face breaks out into a shit-eating grin, “Yeah, Y/N, who just DM’ed you?”

I shake my head, eyes still blown wide in slight panic, “I’m too scared to look.”

“Don’t be a baby! You already kept them man waiting for 24 full hours!” Rachel laughs.

I finally relent and pull up the chat.

@/Harry_Styles: I’m so glad to hear you’re back home safe. I was a little worried about leaving you at the stadium that night. What show will you be at next week?

I read aloud for my friends. It was almost like he was waiting on my message.

“He’s totally trying to spark conversation with you,” Rachel says.

“Shut up. This is not a rom com,” I sigh.

“What are you gonna say back?” Dove asks.

“Yeah, I think you should say--” Sofie is cut off by Katie clearing her throat.

“Listen. Why don’t we not crowd her. Let’s continue our wine night and she can talk to us if she really wants our help.”

I send her an appreciative smile. It’s almost like she read my mind. I think just having them here is already helping me gain control on my thoughts. Emotional support is what I needed.

They all fall into easy conversations again, but I can tell they are all keeping an eye on me.

@/yourusername: I’ll be in Nashville for both shows! I’ve always wanted to go, so I’m flying in a little early to explore a bit.

@/Harry_Styles: Nashville is super fun! It’s one of my favorite places to stop on tour!

We go on like this for a few minutes. He tells me about some of the cool places he’s seen in Nashville and giving some tips on where to get the best vintage thrifting done.

I finish my second glass of wine while waiting on his next response to come in. This is surprisingly easy. I thought talking to him would be more difficult but he’s honestly down to earth. It doesn't feel like I'm messaging my crush-to-end-all-crushes. The wine is probably helping a bit too. Might as well start on a third one. I’ll just work from home tomorrow.

It takes Harry a little longer to respond, so I tune back into my friends. Dove is telling an animated story about her dog who my phone chimes again.

“Guys!” I nearly throw my phone across the room when I read the message.

“What’s up?” Dove asks taking in the pure shock written on my face.

I read them the message Harry just sent.

@/Harry_Styles: They have a really cool rooftop bar that you should check out. Let me know when you fly in and I could probably show you if our schedules match up?

“Correct me if I’m wrong but that just sounds like Harry Styles just asked to take me to a rooftop bar next week.”

tag list: @harry-is-my-sunflower @gucci-hazza @sunshinetemptress9 @damnasstyles @msolbesg @hi-yekaterina @imaginesofdreams @multiplums @gxldenxash @infinitely-yellow @hoseokjin194​ @onecrazydirectioner​

[saey707]

Loved the Lux one, thank you very much.

May I ask for another?

Gwen with an SO who makes clothes for her. (I forgot the name of the profession, the people who make clothes and such.)

Like dresses and other outfits, just really enjoys making these gifts for Gwen.

✿ Prompt: You are a tailor and love making Gwen clothes ✿

♡ champion focus: gwen ♡ tw: none! ♡ Gender-neutral reader

Author’s Note: Hey again! I’m really happy that you like the last headcanons, they were fun to write ૮꒰⸝⸝>  ̫ <⸝⸝꒱ა And super cute idea, I hope you enjoy what I have to offer ( ˘͈  ᵕ  ˘͈ ♡)

Gwen always loved to play dress-up. It would simply be an understatement if someone were to say she was a simple doll. If anything, the hallowed seamstress was regal. Her clothes always looked as if they were made of the finest materials, tailored to her length and form down to the perfect inch. Still, her clothes were snug, with enough space for her to dance around and bend beyond her will!

It was easy for her to glamorize herself in new clothes and fashion looks. She seemed to always pull off any look, no matter how ridiculous and outlandish they may be. Not only that, but she was skilled enough to take old fabric and alter them into new ones with so much as a few snips, a needle, and thread. But can the muse always be the tailor?

While Gwen had beyond the average capabilities to make her own clothes, it was always you who guided her in the right direction when it came down to the design. She was your muse, an apprentice even if you will, and you were her tailor.

She always feels like she learns the most from you, always interested in seeing the next amazing outfit you design.

And every single time she is equally as astounded when you offer a copy of the original to her, perfectly copied and tailored down to the perfect stitch to fit her doll-like figure.

"Oh, it's simply beautiful, my love! It charms me that you would give me this... I don't know any way in which I can repay you for your hard work, but I certainly know I will find a way, yes I will!"

You can be sure Gwen always finds a way to repay you, baking the most delicious desserts and pastries to share with you.

"Are you sure we should be eating this many cupcakes? I'll have to adjust the measurements if we keep doing this, Gwenny..." You query playfully to the delighted soul, entranced by the gentle giggle she released. "Always, love! There is nothing wrong with eating for pleasure~ Just like there is nothing wrong with dancing about, despite everyone watching!"

Her proper voice was like ringing bells in your ears, a cheery and delightful tone that always made your heart fill with passion. To know someone like Gwen, who was always delighted with your expressions of love through clothes... It was beyond anything you could ever expect in such a critical field.

You memorized her measurements by heart, always knowing the exact about of fabric you would need to utilize, the second, smaller bust you curated shrunken down to her measurements.

Of all the clothes you make for her, she is always drawn to your dresses; Every little detail you put into them is taken into account, and Gwen can see it with how focused you become. It's as if you put all your love and attention into each and every dress you design and craft.

And in a way, your doll wishes she had that kind of an attention span... You get work done so quickly!

"Another dress for me, darling?" Shocked, she pulled it up from the box, admiring it before excitedly hugging it close to her. "And it's in your favorite color~" "Hallowed blue!" Gwen finishes, happily laughing and yanking you into her arms to offer a tight hug.

Every single time you watch her spin and dance about in your designs, you can't help but love her more and more. While her movements closely resembled a puppet being pulled around on strings, that just added to all the more reason why you couldn't help but adore her.

"May I have this dance, love~?" She asks, holding her hand out to you, delighted with the bright red hue that floods against your cheeks. "You may, my doll..." You muse. And, spinning her into your hold, you would be sure to lead well in your little dance with her.

[quickdeaths]

@more-than-a-princess continued from here

Shinobu bristled. She was used to being misunderstood. Anzu would argue that it was due to the way she spoke, that she didn't make being understood a priority. There was truth to that, they supposed, given how little they didn't offer correct anyone who had taken their words the wrong way. And yet... There was something about this particular interaction that pushed them to ensure their words weren't misconstrued.

"You've misunderstood me, Miss," Shinobu murmured, hands crossed over their chest as they found further space for themselves under the covering. "When I spoke of tourists, it wasn't literal." She was obviously not Japanese, so perhaps Shinobu's words had offended, but even that seldom mattered to her. A veiled accusation of impoliteness, though, was one thing Shinobu couldn't stand. She was an unkind person, truly, but rudeness was a step too far.

"Rather, this event is for the benefit of music, visual arts, and other traditional pursuits. In the modern era, those who strive for excellence in such fields operate at society's fringes." Shinobu herself understood that feeling, though her icy heart repelled any attempt at shaming or belittling her. Even for a master of an art like herself, societal pressure would so often rather see her as a businesswoman.

Perhaps Anzu was a better example, a peerless, generational talent, a genuine genius in an art that many people forgot existed in the age of television dramas and imported American films. How many times had she heard that she should switch careers, to give up her craft in favor of modeling hand soap or being the twenty-fifth chair in a morning variety show? Small-minded idiocy.

Again, they bristled, questioning for what purpose they were even bothering to explain themselves. "The eccentricities and the dedication of such figures is derided by the society at large. For those socialites whose livelihoods depend upon stamping out that dedication to then surround themselves with art and play at a night of creativity, only to wash their hands of it in the morning as though the ambition of the most dedicated among us were dirt upon their palms, strikes me as shameless behavior."

Most of the time, Shinobu considered herself restrained, and though she hadn't shown anything, she could feel the smallest of embers burning inside of her, directed not towards Sonia but rather many of the fundraiser's organizers. A lifelong businessman, a scandal-ridden politician, the heir to a telecommunications empire, all using a fundraiser as a stepping stone to boost their own reputations.. "I have no issue with those whose appreciation is genuine. It's those who fake their appreciation in the name of status, that I find distasteful, regardless of national origin."

She did not enjoy being worked up, and Shinobu forced herself to cool off, extinguishing those small embers without mercy or reservation. The offered card and pencil provided the excuse to cease speaking long enough to return to their typical, frigid state. Rather than write her name, though, Shinobu simply began to sketch in the designated area. Never would she call herself a visual artist, but something simple wasn't beyond her capabilities, and as she handed the pencil back to Sonia, her drawing was revealed: the head of a deer, one half furred and alive, the other half simply a stripped skull. The in-between.

There wasn't time to say much else before Sonia was whisked away. Shinobu was left alone, until her phone began to buzz inside her jacket pocket. Anzu. "Shinobu-chaaan~ How's the fundraiser? Are you having fun? Making friends?" Shinobu scowled. "You're obnoxious, Miss Tachibana." Over the phone, Anzu gave a weak, whimpering sound. "Miss Tachibana, huh? You ARE mad." Whatever faux-gloom had settled into Anzu's voice dissipated quickly as she let out a soft giggle. "Sorry, sorry. I've just had so many shows recently, and fundraisers can be so stuffy! Much easier just to spend time being adored at the host club."

Shinobu's expression didn't improve at all. "You said you weren't feeling well." "Oh, did I say host club? I meant hospital ehehe..." Anzu gave a weak, fake cough. "But enough about me, don't dodge my questions!" Shinobu let their eyes flick upwards, looking back into the ballroom. "Neither fun nor friends, no." "Really? I'd thought you'd be popular. You haven't talked to anyone?"

"I should return home." "She's totally dodging the question! You did talk to someone! A girl? Did your Rules come up? Oh, tell me ab-" Shinobu sighed, rubbing at one temple with her free hand. "You're obnoxious, Miss Tachibana. I will text you later. Goodbye." End call, power off. What an annoying companion, she thought, even as she dried herself once more with Sonia's handkerchief and returned to the ballroom. It would be rude to leave after having signed Sonia's card, they supposed.

[zenith-impact]

Diluc - Zhongli: Gifts

So... I thought I posted this one already... and I hadn’t. I’m not sure why I didn’t post it. I had it written and all edited and ready to go. But I just... didn’t, I guess? I think its because I forgot after the computer crash. So I’m sorry I made you wait this long. That was not my intention at all. But thank you so much for the request! I really love this idea and I hope you enjoy!  ٩(◕‿◕｡)۶

At first, Diluc doesn’t even realize that you’re giving him gifts. Instead, he begins to question why random rocks and flowers are showing up unannounced at the Dawn Winery and why Adelinde has begun to take care of them. He does realize something is up when those items begin to show up more in your shared room. 

Over time, one flower turns to twelve. One rock turns to twenty. He swears that every night he comes home, no matter how long he’s been out, there’s something new in the house. He just has to find it. Eventually, these items are grouped and displayed as if he were building some kind of museum to the flora, fauna, and the earth of Mondstadt itself. 

Once he finally realizes that its YOU bringing home these things and not Kaeya playing tricks on him, he’s even more confused. This is even more apparent on days he actually catches you adding to the collection. And after watching you place the third rock in your little garden you’ve got going inside the Dawn Winery, Diluc feels he has to step in. 

“What are you doing?”

You jump, nearly dropping the last rock before you could place it behind the glass. “Master Diluc!” You said with a little wave. Diluc resists the urge to roll his eyes. You only call him that when the others are around, even though everyone in the Dawn Winery (and probably all of Mondstadt thanks to Kaeya) knows of your relationship. But instead of correcting you, he simply raises an eyebrow and gestures to the rocks. 

“Why?”

One word, packed with more punch than any other question he could have asked. But you don’t flinch or look away. You actually have the audacity to look confused. As if he was the one bringing all this nonsense into your home. “Well I had to reorganize them,” You said as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “Adelinde does a great job, but I’ll probably find some more soon and…”

“And why do you keep bringing them here?”

For a brief moment, you look lost. Had you truly never thought about it? What a strange thing to…

“Because whenever I’m on my adventures… I’m always thinking of you.”

Diluc blinked. That… wasn’t the answer he was expecting. And here he was, ready to question and possibly scold you for being a kleptomaniac. But instead… there you were making him feel like the fool. “So the flowers…”

You nod as you put the last rock away. “Sometimes my commissions take me out to places like Starsnatch Cliff and Windrise… and there’s always such beautiful flowers around. So I went out the other day and picked a whole bouquet of Windwheel Asters and Cecilias just for you.” You touch up the flowers as you talk, and Diluc realizes that you even got the vases specially crafted; one red for himself, and the other in your favorite color. 

Then, he realized that the entire display was handcrafted; a glass case with small steps that were just large enough for the smooth rocks you’d found. And each rock was something shockingly special. He hadn’t taken the time to really look at each one, but some sparkled like gems. Others had been painted, likely by you, and there were even one that was shimmering different colors in the light. “Where did you find these?”

“Everywhere!” You said with a laugh. “I thought you might…” You looked nervous suddenly, looking back at your display. “Well… You don’t get to leave the area very often, so I thought you might like it if I brought my world back to you.” 

Diluc hugs you at that, but you put a finger to his lips before he could say anything. “No apology needed,” You said with a wink. He rolled his eyes and you laughed before snuggling back into the hug with a content sigh.

You haven’t been dating long before you started bringing home little trinkets from your adventures. Your first ever gift was a simple, crystal infused rock that you thought he might appreciate. And to say he found uses for that rock was a bit of an understatement. Within a few days, you noticed that he bent that thing to his will, using it as anything from a coaster for his tea to a spoon to stir food to a gift-box that stored things he bought for you. Eventually, it settled into a nice pillar in your bedroom to hold the jewelry you couldn’t wear on your adventures, and you would always smile when you saw it. 

The next thing you brought was a leaf, and that had thrown him for a bit of a loop. It was as fragile as any other leaf, but you’d found it special because you’d managed to pick it from Jueyun Karst itself. And Zhongli did notice that there was a very, very small amount of adepti magic clinging to it. After a bit of magic of his own - which sparked a whole different conversation about how he had such magic - that leaf was immortalized and put right next to the little pillar in your room. 

And now, with your newfound knowledge of his status as the former Geo Archon in hand, your gift giving went up a notch. Cor Lapis? Check, though it took you a very long time to chip away at it with the small tools you’d brought for such a mission. Magical crystal chunks? Check. That you’d at least been able to hack at for a bit with a sword. White Iron Ore? Absolutely, but you made sure to give some of it away so you weren’t bringing an entire mass of rock home. Noctilucous Jade? That had been a fun one to track down. But you did it. 

In reality, you loved to see the way he bent these items to his will. He always acted the same when you brought them home. A small smile accompanied by a sigh and a shake of his head. Sometimes a “what am I going to do with you?” was uttered. Other times he just took it and went to work, dazzling you with what many might consider parlor tricks. But you, not having a vision of your own, loved to see what kind of things he could do with such little material. It made you want to bring home even bigger rocks, the kind that would quickly fill your home. 

“Have you considered a garden, my love?” Zhongli said. 

“We don’t have the room for that,” You said as you sat down the piece of White Iron Ore that he’d formed into a star for you a few days prior. “We’d need our own house, not an apartment on the second floor.” But even as you said it, you stared wistfully out the window where your balcony was. With your own home, you could bring home any rock you wanted, and, together, you’d always find its place. But that was a fleeting dream. You didn’t make much off your adventures, and Zhongli’s salary was only just paying for the apartment. 

“Picture this,” Zhongli said, his voice a whisper as he came up behind you and held his hand out. Three small pieces of Cor Lapis hovered over his fingers, and he swirled them with little effort. “It’s the middle of the night. The moon is high in the sky, shimmering in all its beautiful glory as if made especially for you.” His voice sent shivers down your spine, and you closed your eyes to imagine what he wanted you to. “You step out, feet bare, onto a smooth pathway made of rocks you’ve collected and molded by your own hand.”

You giggled. “My own hand? With you here?”

He chuckled, but continued. “You step further into the garden where more, beautiful rocks line the sides and stretch out to the edges. All things you’ve brought back on your adventures, both big and small.” You felt a piece of Cor Lapis drop lightly into your hand. “You cross a bridge where a shimmering stream leads deeper into your garden, right to a pond filled with colorful koi, swirling together in an intricate dance just for you.”

“Will you be there?”

“If you so wish it.”

You opened your eyes and looked up at him. This special world of mine isn’t complete without you in it, Zhongli.”

Golden iris stared down at you in pure adoration. “Then that is where I will be.”

[qianinterprises]

Smoke Detector

Pairing: Taeyong x Reader

Warnings: burnt food, tears, self-doubt

Scenario 1) when they (you) mess up cooking dinner for the first time.

Summary: you want to make dinner for Taeyong on your anniversary, but to do so requires help from the fourth best chef in NCT. Unfortunately, that isn't enough to stop disaster.

Genre: fluff, minor angst

Author's Notes: I am participating in the ficscafe scenario event! You may be seeing a few of these pop up as I am super excited to write these scenarios! Also, I apologize if this is kinda sucky. I wrote it in one sitting because I just had SO much inspiration, but there's a very good chance that this isn't very good.

Word Count: 2.6k

Tag List: @treasuretaeil @hachanbaecon

For as long as you could remember, you'd never learned how to properly put on a meal. Sure, you could make ramen in the microwave or throw together a sandwich, but anything involving more technical skills and you were screwed. For that reason, you never offered to cook for your boyfriend, which admittedly made you feel inadequate, but he was so an amazing chef that admitting your lack of skills was embarrassing to say the least.

Taeyong had no idea you had very little talent in the kitchen. You never told him about the time you nearly burnt down your mother's kitchen trying to make tacos or the time you forgot your scones in the oven until they were black as coal and hard as stones.

Taeyong's cooking skills were perfect. He could whip nothing into the most delectable meal you'd ever tasted. And that was daunting.

He should be with someone who he could partner with. Someone who could share the responsibility of the kitchen because you knew, when Taeyong got home after allday of schedules, the last thing he wanted to do was cook. But he did so anyway (unless you'd convinced him to get takeout). He never complained. Never questioned why you didn't cook for him. Never gave you anything but a happy smile and a soft peck on the lips.

Lee Taeyong was just too perfect. So perfect in fact that today, on the morning of your two year anniversary, he had taken the morning off and instead, bounced around in the kitchen cooking up all your favorite breakfast foods before surprising you in bed with them. He had roused you awake and placed the tray on your lap before crawling back in bed beside you and kissing your lips.

“Happy anniversary my love,” he had whispered against your lips.

The morning had been spent enjoying his well-crafted breakfast with sleepy cuddles and a slow, sensual, naked dance beneath the sheets before he had to peel himself away with a promise that he would be home in time to make dinner.

With that, he had left, and you spent the rest of the afternoon fretting. Taeyong had made breakfast. A breakfast that didn't consist of cheerios or toast. He had taken the time to use his morning to whip up a breakfast fit for a king. And now he was planning on two meals in one day!

Your stomach churned uncomfortably, fear gripping your heart. One day, Lee Taeyong would realize that he was too good for you, and then he’d be gone. Off to find someone better for him. Someone like Doyoung, who he could cook with without supervision. Or maybe even someone like Johnny, bigger than him, that could hold him tight and ease away all of his worries.

You were useless. At least, that’s what your subconsciousness whispered in the back of your head.

~

As two pm rolled around, you were tired of moping. Taeyong deserved someone better. So you would become better. That would just require a little bit (a lot) of help from someone who knew their way around the kitchen.

The first person you contacted was Kun, but when he didn’t respond, Doyoung became the next best thing. Quickly, you sent the male a quick text because you had no idea who Taeyong was scheduled with today.

‘Do you have 127 schedules today?’

Doyoung didn’t take long to text back.

‘Yeah, why?’

Always one to get to the point. But you liked that about Doyoung.

‘Just curious, wasn’t sure who Taeyong was scheduled with today.’

You huffed. The simplest choice went out the window. Had Doyoung been free, you would have invited the male over and had him help you cook a gorgeous dinner. Although part of you was glad you had to go with plan b. Plan b wouldn’t get irritated and yell at you quite as easily as Doyoung would.

‘How’s my favorite Dreamie?’ you sent, hoping Dreams schedules were clear that day because you were running out of options.

‘Jeno’s doing fine? Why?’

‘I’m not talking about Jeno, you nincompoop!’

These boys were going to be the death of you one of these days.

‘Haha, I know, what’s up? What do you need?’

‘Why do you assume I need something?’

‘-.-’

‘Fine. I need your help cooking dinner for Taeyong!’

It took the boy longer to respond and you assumed his answer was no when your phone began to ring. When you answered, he didn’t even give you time for a proper greeting.

“Why do you need my help?” Jaemin asked.

You let out a huff. None of the boys knew your dirty little secret, but you knew Jaemin (or Doyoung for that matter) would help you without an explanation.

“Because I can’t cook to save my life! And he cooks all the time! And I just want our anniversary to be special! Will you help me or not?!”

“How are you dating Taeyong hyung without knowing how to cook?!”

“Jaemin!” you whined, red creeping up to your cheeks.

He let out a breathy laugh.

“I can’t come over. Our managers gave us the next few days off and Renjun and Jeno have barricaded us all in here, but I can help you over the phone!”

Not exactly what you had in mind, but with Jaemin helping you, what could possibly go wrong?

~

Later on that evening after deciding to make something relatively simple for Taeyong, Jaemin helps you create a grocery list and sends you on your way. Grocery shopping was the easy part. You were exceptionally good at shopping. It was when you got back home that your hands began to clam up as you stood in the center of the kitchen, trying to mentally prepare yourself for whatever was about to happen.

Your phone rang in your pocket as you were shakily pulling a pan out, placing it on the stove. You fished out your phone and answered, Jaemin’s face popping onto your screen.

“Ready to get cooking?” he asked, a wide grin spreading across your face.

“I’m nervous,” you mumbled.

“Oh come on! You’ve got me here to guide you! It’ll be great!” you promised.

Hopefully, he was right.

“Ok so the first thing you need to do is heat up the pan over the stove. While that’s heating, start chopping the vegetables. Just be careful!”

Nodding, you turned on the stove. When nothing happened to sabotage you this early in the game, you let out a sigh of relief and set out chopping all of the vegetables that you’d bought, preparing a hearty, healthy, but tasty dish for the man that never ceased to give you everything you desired.

“Ok, now get the meat out of the fridge and put it in the pan.”

Nodding to him, you slid on a pair of rubber gloves and pulled the hamburger meat out of the refrigerator. Ripping open the packaging, you dumped the red meat into the now sizzling frying pan and let out a small sound of joy when you succeeded in not making too big of a mess.

“Great now-” there was a knock over the line and Jaemin’s attention turned from you to the door.

“What?” he asked.

“We’re going out to the sports bar down the road. Wanna come?” Jeno’s voice asked in the background.

Jaemin let out a whine in the back of his throat.

“I promised (y/n) noona that I’d help her make dinner for Taeyong hyung.”

“Sucks to be you!” the door slammed and Jaemin turned back to you looking like a kicked puppy.

Your heart clenched. Not only did you have to elicit Jaemin’s help in the first place, but now you were keeping him from spending time with his friends and having fun.

“Explain to me everything that I need to do and go,” you offered.

His face lit up immediately and he opened his mouth to speak before freezing.

“But I promised…”

“Jaemin, it’s not that big of a deal! I’ve got this,” you said, hoping he couldn’t hear the way your voice wavered at the doubt creeping into your soul.

“Ok so…” and he rattled off instructions, letting you write them down.

“Now are you sure you can do this?” he asked.

You nodded even though you were positive you couldn’t do this.

“Ok! Good luck! And Taeyong hyung is going to love it!”

With that, the call ended and you were left alone with a pan of rapidly browning hamburger meat and a pot of boiling water.

“Ok (y/n), you got this,” you whispered to yourself.

~

You didn’t have this. In no way, shape, or form did you have this!

The meat browned too quickly, and while you were trying to get it off the heat, the pot of water boiled over, sizzling and fizzing on the burner You slightly burned your hand in a rush trying to get the lid off of the pot of noodles, but while you were fighting with it, the smoke alarm went off, blaring loudly through the house. Frantically, you trembled as you tried to quiet down the alarm before you realized why it was going off.

The meat had become a dark brown lump emitting thick black smoke that pillowed toward the ceiling. With a little screech, you grabbed the pan of meat and hurled it into the empty sink, rapidly turning the water on and letting it spill over the now ruined meat as you turned back to turn off the stove. However, before you could, the water was boiling over the sides again.

By the time you got the water in the pot to settle, your hair was a mess atop your head and tears had gathered into your eyes at the mess of a kitchen. Water was still running over the burned black meat. The noodles in the pot had secured themselves to the bottom of the pot, refusing the budge, and the vegetables you’d put in the oven to roast had gotten done while everything else had gone wrong. Now they sat on top of the stove crispy with an aftertaste of coal.

Dinner was ruined. But perhaps you’d still have time to order takeout before-

You heard his keys jiggle in the door and your heart dropped to your stomach. Not only had you not succeeded in making one simple meal, but Taeyong was going to see just how awful you were in the kitchen.

You sank to your knees on the floor, leaning against the cabinets under the sink and drawing your knees to your chest, burying your face in your hands as the tears flowed easily now.

“Honey! I’m ho-”

The first thing Taeyong noticed was the smell. The bitter, burnt scent of burning food making his nose crinkle in distaste.

“Babe?” he asked, stepping further into your shared apartment, closer to the kitchen where the smell was coming from.

When he entered, the sight broke his heart.

You were trembling on sobs below the sink, quiet whimpers leaving your lips that only got worse as he moved closer to you. Water was running over a pan of burnt something in the sink and the pot on the stove was scorched. The vegetables on the over pan looked like shriveled prunes.

Slowly, so as not to make you more upset, Taeyong made his way over to the stove and quickly switched off the two burners and the over, all of which you must have forgotten to turn off.

When the stove was handled, Taeyong took another look around the kitchen. Your phone was sitting on the counter by the stove, a piece of paper with hastily scratched instructions beside it. There was an old sweater hanging over the back of the table chair that you must have used to calm the smoke detector that was now dangling from the ceiling by a single wire. The refrigerator was slightly ajar and making a small dinging noise until he pushed it closed. You were crumpled on the floor in the center of all of the chaos, and it didn’t take a genius to figure out what had happened.

With a small sigh, Taeyong moved closer to you. He leaned over you to switch off the water pouring onto the burnt pan before lowering himself to the floor and wrapping an arm around your shoulders.

“Baby, did you try to cook for me?” he whispered.

He already knew the answer to that, but he wanted to hear a response from you. When you only nodded, another whimper leaving your lips, he pulled you into his arms and placed a kiss on your head.

“Why baby? I told you I was going to cook.”

“You cooked breakfast,” you mumbled.

“So?”

By now he was very confused. You never offered to cook. He just assumed you didn’t like to or couldn’t, which seemed to be the case.

“You deserve someone who can cook for you,” you muttered. “You always have to cook and I’m just useless not being able to.”

Taeyong was left speechless for a solid 30 seconds before he was pulling you into his lap, carefully spinning you around to face him.

“You are not useless. Baby, you give me warm hugs and kisses when I get home. You let me be the little spoon some nights when I’m exhausted. You draw baths for me and hold me while I relax. You are anything but useless. You do so much for me that I enjoy cooking for us when I get home. Even when I’m tired I love it. I love seeing your face light up when you taste something you like or watching you bounce in your seat over your favorite foods. I don’t get to take care of you half as much as you take care of me. Let me cook for you baby. I love it,” he said, letting his thumbs gently stroke over your face as he wiped away your tears.

Your glassy eyes looked up to meet his and he was drawing you closer, planting a soft kiss on your water lips.

“I love you baby. And I promise, just because you can’t cook doesn’t make me love you any less,” he said, kissing your forehead.

You nodded and dove into him, letting your head rest against his neck, holding onto him as warmth washed over you.

“I love you too,” you muttered, finally feeling relaxed after hours of stress that came with cooking.

“Who gave you those instructions on the counter? Did they not offer to help you?”

“Jaemin. Kun was busy. Doyoung was with you. I obviously wasn’t about to call you, so Jaemin helped me, but halfway through he had to go.”

Taeyong nodded and peppered kisses along your cheeks.

“How about we get dressed and go to the dinner where we had our first date? Then tomorrow, we’ll spend the whole day together. I might even help you learn how to cook!”

“You have tomorrow off?!”

“Mhm,” Taeyong cooed.

You jumped off his lap excitedly.

“That sounds perfect!” you grinned, dashing off to your shared bedroom to put on something other than sweats.

Laughing, Taeyong stood up and surveyed the kitchen once again.

You had the capabilities of cooking. That much was clear by the seasonings and well-chopped vegetables. Stress and distractions were your issues. And that, he could help you with.

With a smile, he made his way to the bedroom.

It didn't matter if you could cook or not. What mattered was that you were his. And if the ring tucked away in his pocket was any indication, he planned on making you his forever.