#i have a cat sleeve hence why i want like all the cats

[thefroglordhathreturned]

[macabrecravings]

Ohhhhhh... Very optional. And, naturally, something that could have multitudinous answers, so multiple could absolutely be given. But ALSO...

Given that they're talking again/have made up, enough that they could get away with it, what do you think the first non-"book criminal" thing Sydney would write on Kylar would be? Would Sydney change how they write book criminal on them, even, like they do for PC? Or would they not write on Kylar at all, maybe!

(BONUS: ADORE YOUR WRITING!! The thought you put into Sydneyposts and both your understanding of him and how he'd articulate things absolutely fucks to read :} your ocs seem really cool too... well wishes)

I HAVE!!! SO MANY THOUGHTS about Sydney (& Kylar) bodywriting <3 This got LONG but I'm genuinely rotating this so hard, thank you for prompting me.

— When they're closer, I imagine the normal "Book Criminal >:(" would become “Book Criminal :(“ with a sad face. Reason being...? Well, he's disappointed that Kylar's still destructing school property, even after all of his lecturing

— It's really fun to picture Sydney writing "Interesting" on Kylar, like he does to the PC when he's intrigued by them/getting closer to them. Interesting is... definitely one way to describe him, for sure. Kylar scrunches his face at it, trying to decipher what he means by it. Gets all grumpy and huffy, tries to glare at him but he just kinda looks like a wet cat LMFAO.

— Playing off of another canon Sydlar scene, I'm going to go ahead and take his "Kylar >:(" and make it "Kylar :)" [The original scene happens while Sydney & Kylar are fighting over PC and taking turns writing on them, but in this scenario I imagine it like most of his other PC bodywriting scenes.] - "Hey, can I write something on you?" - "Ah? Uh... y-yeah, I guess...?" - **Kylar :)** Kylar stares at it, confused. Why'd he... label him?

— Putting aside the fact that Sydney is super organized & clean, I loooveee the idea of him being a doodler. Hence why he draws little hearts and faces on people. Unlike Kylar, he refrains from drawing on school assignments & library books, but he still finds it enjoyable!! So, hear me out. Little stars, hearts, swirls, dotting the back of Kylar's hand and up his arm after he sits at the same table as him :)

Bonus points if Kylar rolls the sleeves of his school uniform/jacket down over them and forgets about them until that evening when he heads home. When he sees them again, the little red doodles are all smudged and he's kinda like, "Ah. Right." Maybe daydreams about it a little bit before he washes it off.

— Bit of a mushier, more self-indulgent one here but ummm...! Sydney writing nice little quips / little motivational phrases on Kylar's arms. Supportive little phrases to boost his confidence and keep him going throughout the day when things are rough. He rolls his eyes at the gesture, thinks it's dumb. But... at the same time, they’re validating. Having genuinely supportive reminders on his skin that contrast his scars? Ough...

(P.S. That means THE WORLD to me...!!!! My absolute favorite part of writing is characterization & I genuinely put so much thought into taking canonical bases and fleshing them out / expanding them while trying to keep it in the general realm of possibility!!! A lot of the time w/ the roleplay account, it's like taking a shot in the dark and running off of pure vibes so I looveeee that y'all enjoy what I do w/ it :))

Also. I'm so obsessed with my OCs, I can't wrap my head around the fact that people enjoy them as much as I do but I wouldn't change it for the world ;w; Characterizing and fleshing them out is a blast too, I'm not limited by anything really,,,, I find myself going "ugh I wish ____ would do *this* and I've got to be like. "I mean... who's stopping you...?" </3 Be free!!! Do whatever you want forever!! <3)

[hulijingemperor2]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 I just had to skip a chapter~ cuz I can't wait for Xiaobao to arrive❤️

~~~~

~Costume party!~

Yao: *relaxing with team d*

Su she: *filing A-Yao's nails*

Mo xuanyu: *admiring him*

Xue yang: *giving him a scalp massage*

Yao: team dimple. I feel like throwing a party.

Everything is going well in my empire, hence I wish to celebrate.

Mo xuanyu: that's a great idea, Yao gege.

Yao: mhm. It will be in two days.

Xue yang: would it be a costume party?

Yao: I'm planning to make it immortal and yokai themed.

The guests can dress as whatever yokai, deity or immortal if they wish.

Mo xuanyu: yay!!

Su she: huangdi, your parties are always so unique.

Yao: thank you dear. Please, Minshan, call my assistants. We have a party to plan.

Su she: yes Huangdi. I'll be right back.

Mo xuanyu: I have an outfit to plan!

Yao: oh yes, certainly.

Mo xuanyu: but I'll do that later. I want to stalk you, and maybe steal a kiss.

Xue yang: simp.

Mo xuanyu: we're all simps.

*thugs on A-Yao's sleeve and pouts* Yao gege. Kiss.

Yao: *lifts chin* you have to do something to get a kiss.

Mo xuanyu: I'll do anything for a kiss from you.

Xue yang: what to do, Jiggy? I'll do it too!

Mo xuanyu: yangyang, Yao gege asked me!

Yao: I'll tell you guys after I talk to my assistants.

*kisses both of them* then you'll get some more kisses.

Mo xuanyu: *blushing* Yao gege, Yao gege, Yao gege!

Xue yang: *kisses him deeply* Jiggy. Omg. Can you undress a little.

Yao: not now.

Xue yang: ok fine, baby.

Su she: *enters* Huangdi.

Xiying and Fuying: greetings Huangdi.

Yao: ah, great that you're here. Minshan maybe told you.

I'm planning on having a costume party, to celebrate the empire.

Let's discuss some details.

~~~

The party started, and A-Yao's guests began arriving. His harem as well as a couple fox spirits all showed up dressed as yokais or immortals.

Most of the fox spirits dressed as other types of fox spirits (kitsune dressed as a hulijing, hulijing dressed as a Gumiho)

Nie Huaisang dresses as Cangjie, the immortal of calligraphy, writing and the arts. cangjie also worked with the Yellow Emperor, and Jiang cheng dresses as an Okami, a wolf spirit.

Zixuan dresses as God of wealth, Caishen. Yanli dresses as goddess Chang'e and Jinling dressea as Fenghuang, a Phoenix spirit and Luo Yuan dresses as a weaver girl.

Ouyang Zizhen dresses as a dragon spirit as well.

In addition, Nie mingjue dresses as Xing tian (is a headless giant. Who was decapitated by the Yellow Emperor as punishment for challenging him.

He just wore clothes as a warrior, while carrying Baxia and a shield.

(I like foreshadowing)

Our Jin guangyao dressed as the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi)

Speaking of Yao huangdi~~~ this is what the Mengs, Lan Xichen, and team d were wearing.

Xichen ( dressed as a qilin): *kneels* A-Yao Huangdi.

Yao (dressed as the Yellow Emperor): Huan, you're making me blush. Get up.

Xichen: *stood up, and touches his face* may I kiss you?

Yao: why are you asking? You always do.

Xichen: you're looking so gorgeous that, *blushing* I get shy. And you always dress as an emperor.

Yao: because I'm the emperor, silly.

Kiss me, before team d, Song'er and Yi'er sees.

Xichen: *goes to kiss him, but stops* A-Yao, your crown beads are in the way.

Yao: oh right. *shifts it*

Xichen: *kisses*

Yao: *smiles*

Mo xuanyu: Yao gege, Yao gege!! How do i look?

Am I a cute Kitsune!

Yao: waw! A very cute Kitsune!

Mo xuanyu: thank you, Huangdi. *kisses his dimple*

Lan lips, you're taking Yao gege's spotlight.

Xichen: how can I. When he's this gorgeous.

Su she (dressed as a kasa obake): gosh Lan lips. No need to be cliche.

Xichen: I'm just saying my thoughts.

Mo xuanyu: Lan lips, he's our Yao gege.

Xue yang (dressed as a nekomata, with a pink bow in his hair): *pouts* Jiggy.

(A nekomata~ a two tailed black cat spirit)

Yao: yangyang, what's up. You look amazing too.

Xue yang: yuyu tied a bow in my hair after I told him that I want to he dark and mysterious.

Mo xuanyu: yangyang, we know that you're girly pop. Just admit it.

Yao: oh dear.

But you still can be dark and mysterious.

So you don't want candy then?

Xue yang: Jiggy.

Jiggy, of course I want candy.

Jiggy. *hugs* if you're free later, I would like you to show me your 'Yellow emperor'

Yao: *hits him with his fan* naughty.

Su she: stop harassing Huangdi!

And especially when *blush* he looks like that.

Xue yang: who's gonna stop me.

Su she: Huangdi would. He would punish you.

Xue yang: oh come on Shanshan. That's team dimple's dream to be punished by Jiggy.

Jiggy, I want you to whip me.

Yao: *rolls eyes and opens fan*

Xue yang: I love it when you're a mean diva. Omg.

Su she: Huangdi is so gorgeous.

Mo xuanyu: can you like, marry us again. And whip us afterwards of course.

Jingyi (dressed as a dragon spirit): hey simps. Hey Diedie.

Rusong (dressed as an Ungaikyo mirror inmortal): A-Die, are they troubling you again?

Yao: *sighs dramatically* you know team d. Anyways dear. Your cosplay is gorgeous. And yours too, Yi'er.

Both: thanks A-Die.

Yao: a mirror inmortal. Ah, I was once drawn as one. Because I'm known for my mirror portal.

Rusong: that's where I get the idea from.

Team dimple.

Team dimple: *kneels* DIANXIA!!!!!! We're sorry.

Xichen: *kneels*

Mo xuanyu: *cries* you're not a part of team dimple, Lan lips!!!

Rusong: team d, chill.

Jingyi: hilarious.

Yao: *pats Rusong's head fondly* my dear son. Commanding team dimple. I love that.

Rusong: *smiling*

Su she: well he's our second boss.

Xue yang: mini boss Dianxia.

A-qing *dressed as a Huxian* : I didn't know it was raining simps. *hugs Rusong*

Rusong: aww, look at you. *lifts chin*

A-qing: where's my kiss, Rusong?

Rusong: *kisses her*

Xue yang: but A-qing you're the biggest simp here.

A-qing: you wish! Now let me have a moment with rich gege!

Xue yang: (after literally flirting with A-Yao a while ago) rent a room.

A-qing: no!

Rusong: gorgeous fox goddess. I love your costume.

A-qing: thanks rich gege. *blush*

Rusong: maybe this is how our child may look.

Meng hulijing with your face.

A-qing: *buries her head in his chest* Rusong!!!

Yao: not them planning to make me a grandfather early.

Qin Su ( dressed as Bixia, the goddess of fertility): *enters with Taihua in her arms, and Meng Shi* Huangdi. Guess who's here!

Taihua was dressed as Nuba, the goddess of droughts, and daughter of the Yellow Emperor.

Meng Shi: your Nuba is here!

Taihua: A-Die!!

Yao: awww. Nuba. You're so adorable!! *hugs and puts her in his arms* my baby.

Taihua: you look so fancy, A-Die.

Yao: thank you, A-hua. *kisses*

Meng Shi: aww.

Looks like Huahua is ready to take the spotlight.

Yao: she always has everyone's attention.

Meng Shi: just like you.

Yao: haha, definitely.

Qin Su: her emerald earrings and necklace were mine. But I let the jewelers adjust it for her.

Yao: that's so cute.

I recognized that piece.

Qin Su: I'm just so obsessed with dressing Huahua up like a doll.

Yao: ah same here. She is our little doll.

Taihua: Song gege, Qing jiejie, er ge. How do I look?

Rusong: very cute. Like a goddess.

Jingyi: you look lovely, Hua.

A-qing: you always look like a baby supermodel.

Just like your A-niang.

Xue yang: why are you asking, A-qing, Hua. She doesn't know what's fashion. Ask team dimple instead.

Taihua: no.

Well ok. Uncle Mo, uncle Su. How do I look?

Both: very adorable.

Taihua: thank you. Uncle muffin doesn't know what fashion is.

Meng shi and the rest: *laughing*

Rusong: very good, Hua!

Xue yang: don't listen to Rusong. I pretty well know what is fashion.

~

Afterwards, A-Yao and the rest greeted their guests, then took their seats. A group of kitsune dancers furthermore started their performance.

Mo xuanyu: Yao Huangdi, can I get a kiss.

Taihua: *sitting on Ayaos lap* behave, uncle mo!

Mo xuanyu: *gasps*

Su she: little Gongzhu only allows Huanghou to kiss Huangdi or ask him for a kiss.

Qin Su: Huangdi, can I get a kiss?

Yao: ah, sure dear. *kisses*

Mo xuanyu: *jealous*

Taihua: team dimple needs to behave.

Rusong: they'll never learn, Hua.

Jingyi: they're forever simps.

Yao: *kisses team dimple*

Team d: *blushing*

Taihua: omg.

A-Die has a soft spot for team d.

Yao: mhm.

Yao: that was a lovely performance. Let's go chat with people.

Uh A-Su, team d, we'll go with Hua.

Qin Su: sure.

Meng Shi: I'll go talk to some famous Gumihos. As well as Hua cheng. I must thank him for his service for the fox spirits.

Yao: oh great. Do you think we should give him some more positions?

Meng Shi; he's definitely qualified for it.

Qin Su: He's already the protector and ambassador or fox spirits. Maybe he can move to 1st rank.

Yao: good suggestion.

That will be another ceremony though.

Qin Su: of course.

Yao: A-Song, A-Yi, go ahead and greet people.You're young Mengs, and everyone must see your beauty.

A-Song, is Ouyang Zizhen here?

Rusong: yes, yes he is.

Ouyang Zizhen is dressed as a dragon spirit.

Yao: lovely. Meet him up, but take A-qing with you to talk to people.

Rusong: sure. *opens fan elegantly, then took A-qing's hand* let's go.

A-qing: *blushing* Ah, let's go!

Qin Su: adorable couple.

Yao: indeed.

I suggest that Rusong proposes one of these days. Also I have been planning his wedding for so long.

Qin su: that's every parent's dream. I really look forward to see my little Songsong get married to his love.

Yao: I know right. That's why I was planning a flawless wedding.

He may marry his concubine when he becomes Huangdi.

Qin Su: mn.

Taihua: A-Die, A-niang. That means I got to go shopping for gege's wedding.

Qin Su: of course you do, baby.

Yao: oh yes, princess Meng needs something new to wear.

[audio-luddite]

CD magic and snake oil

Every audio media has it's snake oil or magic powder to improve things.

I played a CD of Jazz by a Canadian Jazz Trio lead by Holly Cole. My wife does not care for it so... When I pulled it from it's jewel case it had a cute rubber gasket thing around it.

Back in the day there were many similar things. The rubber gasket thing was to suppress vibration. There were also rings of sorbothane that had adhesive backs to do the same thing. The theory was that the plastic disc spinning as fast as it did would vibrate and wobble making the laser focus tricky and needing the error correction digital parts to get the data off hence a reduction in sound quality. Not totally unreasonable.

Of course since it was on my CD I must have bought it. This was two or three CD players ago I think. This stuff did not come from the factory like that. I recall the sticky one had a centering tool to make sure it was PERFECTLY balanced. Yah sure! The gasket thing was like an elastic band with a channel cross section that grabbed the edge of the disc. Probably a bit more precise. Did it help? It didn't hurt I guess.

Fancy CD players had dynamic balancing and extreme vibration isolation. That is what made them so expensive. Chips are chips and all the digital stuff is chips. The laser focusing device is gloriously analog with a lens that is moved by a coil fed a signal. Maybe later versions used piezo actuators, but that does not matter. Lasers are pretty boring things now unless you are a cat.

Rubber bits were not the only thing they tried. There was the notorious green marker. That was applied to the outer circumference of the CD to block light that may interfere with the laser. Red Laser green marker. I am sure the inventor went to the local school or office supply store and cleared them out of green markers, had labels printed and made a fast fortune.

I have had CDs fail for various reasons and when that happens they chirp like birds as the error correction goes out.

After my wife complained I put on a Josh Bell CD. Violins are pretty tricky to record and reproduce. This Sounds pretty fine as I am sure care was taken to keep it clear. CDs can sound quite nice. Hey did you know that Josh Bell breathes when he plays. Maybe if he inhaled with an open mouth it would not be so prominent. Audiophile detail can be annoying sometimes. This disc has no gaskets or rim treatments so there.

I have not bought a CD for a while. I probably will not add any gaskets if I get a new one. If it has music I want it is possible.

By comparison there is little I have done with my vinyl. (CDs are polycarbonate)

My LP treatment is limited to cleaning it with my old disc-washer brush and new "groove-washer" fluid. I clean it lightly every time I play them. Even in the nice archival MOFI slip sleeves they can get dust on them. (Even Cat Hair! Shudder!!). At least this is a no-smoking home.

Some LP fiends play thier records wet. I mean actually wet with fluids of strange types passed over by moon crystals. The idea is not totally crazy, lubrication can be good I guess. Still I do not do that.

I do play my records with a weight on the centre. I have a cork mat under the factory slip mat which I know makes a difference. It really suppresses vibration and makes the beast quieter.

Aside from those things I do fiddle with different phono cartridges from time to time. I mean why have so many and not play with them. I am sure it is disappointing to some that they sound pretty similar to one another.

On duty today Yamaha S300 CD player ARC SP14 preamp (Russian tube) and the infamous Franken-Amp with my invisible speakers.

[alinalioness]

Alina in Wonderland 6 Chapter:Court.

Meanwhile, with heroes.

The heroes continued to walk in the corridors following the cat's purple footprints.

Leo:I think the tracks are very familiar.

Alina:I can see it myself. I can already guess where they are leading us.

BWW:On the way out? (He and Alina stopped and saw the wardrobe) The wardrobe.

Balan:Great, that's where we need to go.

They immediately went up to the wardrobe, which was very large.

Cass:Not only for the queen, but also for the servants.

Balan:So, Lance and I will go get dressed and even change my makeup, and you will be on the lookout.

Heroes expect Balan and Lance:Ok.

Balan and Lance went to pick out clothes while the others stood guard to make sure no one got in.

Cal:Let's talk about footprints. If they seemed familiar, then it's possible...

Heroes:(Realized) Cheshire cat.

Cass:So he wants to help us escape from here.

Alina:And he knows where to go. Although, you know, let's think about how we deal with the Queen. It would be unfair to abandon the innocent.

Bruce:That's for sure.

Invisible Man:Absolutely, if we don't talk about the guards. Because they will interfere with us.

Balan:All of us!

The heroes noticed the two maestros as they approached. Balan wore black with a large cape and had brown hair. And Lance had blue clothes with his daughter on his face and his hair was pulled back in a ponytail.

Alina:You look really beautiful.

Balan:Thank you.

Lance:We also need to replace the name, otherwise they will find out.

Alina:I suggest it... What about Anderson and Louis?

Balan:Great, no one will suspect.

Suddenly, they heard footsteps in fright. Even Cass hid behind the Air Cat from this.

Alina:They...

Leo:We're screwed...

Balan:Without panicking, I saw the window. Everyone follow me.

The heroes ran to the side of the window. They opened it and in horror, except Balan and Lance looked down at how high it was. From this, the frightened ones closed their eyes.

Lance:We'll have to jump.

Balan:We're holding on.

They hugged and jumped into a bush from the garden. While the guards went up the wardrobe and noticed an open window that one of them closed. The heroes in the bushes were glad they hadn't noticed them.

Alina:Phew, you didn't notice. We're going out.

The heroes came out of the bushes (If not for Attilio's sleeves, he caught on a branch and he unhooked).

Balan:And how did you get into the castle by the way?

Alina:By trickery. Bruce beat the guards with invisibility and slowly made their way, and Happy Blaster noticed a torch that hung crookedly and corrected it in the prison hall.

Lance:A cunning plan, we also heard how you wanted to get rid of the Queen of Hearts in order to free all the people.

Heroes:(They nodded) Yes.

Cass:And we also made our way with the help of a magic mushroom. (With Alina, Leo, Emma, inhabitants, costumes and Negabosses, the mustache of the mushroom was shown) Which on the one hand we are decreasing, and on the other we are increasing.

White Rabbit:(Scared) Make way for the Duchess! Get Out Of The Way!

The heroes noticed a carriage with horses, where the old Duchess of pretzel Powers gets out of it. She approached the heroes with a smile.

Duchess:Good afternoon, dear ones. You have no idea how glad I am to see you.

Emma:She's not evil at all. Why is he afraid of her?

Yuri:She must be kind from the prey (The heroes were surprised).

Leo:Have we discovered a new law? Like mustard makes them sad and onions make them bulbous.

Alina:But for her, it's a moral.

Duchess:That's right, hence the moral. Otherwise... I can't figure it out. I'll remember nothing later.

Leo:Or maybe there is no morality here?

Duchess:How is it not? Everyone has their own morality, you only need to find a month. (Flamingo stole a pretzel from her) Some flamingos bite as well as mustard, hence the moral. The bird itself is from the lady of flight.

Dusk butterfly:And mustard is like a mineral.

Duchess:You are absolutely right, what a mind, mineral and huge explosive power make mines. Hence the moral, a good face in a bad game, this is the main thing (He goes to the palace with the heroes).

Jose:Hey, mustard is also a vegetable.

Barktholomew:How she likes to find all sorts of morals.

DuchessI absolutely agree with you, hence the moral. Every vegetable in its time, or it's easier to say that you are not different. What could be different.

The heroes with the Duchess entered the castle where all the people go to court. When everyone entered the courtroom, everyone took their seats.

White Rabbit:Don't make any noise in the hall! Don't make any noise in the hall!

Alina:I've never been to the courts in my life. I just heard it.

The Queen of hearts sat on the throne while the judge himself went to the table for the trial. The Jack of Hearts enters the scene, which everyone considers him guilty. The Duchess was scared when she saw the Queen and immediately ran away leaving the hall.

Emma:She seems to be afraid of the queen.

Queen of Hearts:Herald, state the charge.

After the trumpet sounds, the White Rabbit reads the note.

White Rabbit:The Lady of Diamonds cooked broth and fried 10 cutlets. Ten broth stole broth, cutlets stole jack.

Queen of Hearts:Think about your decision (The judge writes down the decision in the papers).

White Rabbit:No, it's too early, it was necessary to do everything according to the rules (He closed his mouth with his paw).

The rabbit was afraid that if he said no to the queen, his head would be cut off. Fortunately, this did not happen.

Dusk Butterfly:It's really scary.

White Rabbit:The first witness!

Alina:If we weren't witnesses too.

The guards are carrying the watch where Mad Hatter fell from it.

Mad Hatter:Please, Your Majesty, I am... I'm a small person.

Queen of Hearts:Come on, don't be nervous. Otherwise I'll have you executed.

Mad Hatter:I didn't have time to make tea-

Queen of Hearts:Get to the point.

Mad Hatter:H is a small man. I keep thinking about the past stumps... the other day (Eats a cup).

Queen of Hearts:Well, stupid as a tree stump. Maybe it's better to twist it, from word games?

The guards carry Mad Hatter out of the hall and away.

White Rabbit:Witness, the March Hare!

The March Hare was hiding and trembling in one of the pillars. The guards immediately pulled him out.

March Hare:(Continues to tremble) I... didn't do anything...

Queen of Hearts:He denies everything.

March Hare:I didn't think anything.

Queen of Hearts:Well, suppress him.

The guards grabbed the March Hare, stuffed it into a bag and pinned it down.

Balan:This is all not good. We'd better get out now if it weren't for the guards.

Tornado Wolf:We don't even know where the exit is.

Alina:Damn, I forgot.

BWW:What?

Alina:I forgot that-

Aero Acrobat:(His ear got a little bigger) My ear.

The heroes immediately noticed that they immediately began to grow to their usual size.

Alina:I wanted to warn you about that too. Well, I'm not at all.

Cass:It's okay, I forgot myself.

White Rabbit:Witnesses, Alina, Leo, Emma, inhabitants, costumes, Negabosses, Anderson and Louis!

Alina:Here.

Suddenly, the showcase with the heroes fell, causing the judge to fall.

Emma:Please excuse the size problem.

Queen of Hearts:What do you know?

Alina:Nothing.

Queen of Hearts:How? At all? But it's important.

White Rabbit:Your Majesty wanted to say it doesn't matter (Nods to the heroes).

Queen of Hearts:Yes, I just wanted to say that it doesn't matter.

The judge didn't write it down on the papers.

White Rabbit:With a message, Your Majesty. There's more evidence here. (He took out the letter) One document has just been found.

Queen of Hearts:What does it say?

White Rabbit:I haven't read it yet, but maybe it's from the accused to someone.

Judge№1:And who is it addressed to?

White Rabbit:Nobody, there's nothing written on the envelope.

Judge№2:The defendant's handwriting?

White Rabbit:(He opened the envelope of the letter) No, but it's suspicious.

Queen of Hearts:So the jack did the handwriting.

Jack of Hearts:With the message, Your Majesty, I did not write this letter. My signature is not there.

Queen of Hearts:So much the worse, then you're up to something bad. Any honest people signed up. Guilt is proven!

Frost Fairy:Nothing like that, you haven't even read what it says.

White Rabbit:(Reads the letter) She's certainly hot, don't argue with me in vain. Yes, you see, hacking from the shoulder is not so safe.

Queen of hearts:(Outraged) From the shoulder? Did I cut from the shoulder?

Judges:Nothing.

Queen of Hearts:I was chopping heads off shoulders, not off shoulder (The judge applauds).

White Rabbit:Let the jury decide whether he is guilty or not?

Queen of Hearts:No! Let them bring a verdict, guilty or not. We'll discuss it later.

Tornado Wolf:What nonsense.

Queen of Hearts:(Angry)Shut up!

Heroes:And we won't think about it.

Queen of Hearts:(Angry) Chop off their heads!

Alina:Who's afraid of you if you're just cards?

Guardian:Your Majesty! Your Majesty! Two maestros have escaped!

Queen of Hearts:(Angry) How? How could they escape?

Guard:I don't know, but I've seen 28 people, 24 of them are twins, animals and a lioness.

Lance:(Whisper) It's about us..

Queen of Hearts:(Angry) We will find these reptiles, but for now we will deal with the giants.

Water Blaster:You can hardly do that with us. Because we are bigger than you.

Suddenly, he accidentally shot water on top and the water got on Balan and Lance.

Balan:It's all right. (He and Lance took off their clothes and they were in casual) We didn't even catch a cold.

Everyone gasped when they saw Balan and Lance in front of them.

Guard:They're here!

Queen of Hearts:(Angry) So you are-

White Rabbit:Calm down, it's better not- (The Queen of Hearts pushed him)

Queen of Hearts:(Angry) You have freed them!

Alina:Yes, specifically to get us out of wonderland.

Queen of Hearts:(Angry) You're not going anywhere if we catch you and chop off your head. Take them!

Alina:Guys, a mushroom.

The heroes immediately eat the mushroom and shrink with the size of the little finger. They immediately run, but are stopped by guards with spears.

Attilio:We're trapped.

Guardian:You have nowhere to run.

Happy Blaster:(Scared) We are lost (Hugs Attilio).

Alina:We have nowhere to run.

To be continued...

[emeritusemeritus]

if your askbox is still open for blurbs/requests/whatever what do you think about the twins x a reader who is just like eddie munson? i assume they get along really well but which twin would get feelings for the reader? if nothing is open or you dont feel like doing this feel free to ignore!! :) i’m sorry for bothering you

Hi love! You could never bother me, thank you for sending this in! I love this idea so much, I think it’s very likely that the twins would chose someone like Eddie to keep them on their toes!

My thoughts on the matter…

First of all, they really would get along like a house on fire. Need someone reliable to help execute a plan? Reader is there with unwavering support, hammering away about non-conformity. Stuck for prank ideas? I'm sure reader already has some up their sleeve.

Regardless of what house the reader would be, their loyalty to their friends is of utmost importance, an unwavering devotion that even Godric Gryffindor would be intimidated by.

Like Eddie, the reader is most probably a little different, a little cooky with interesting and diverse interests that other people just don't get, but it's all part of their charm. The twins might or might not share in these interests but they're quick to defend them to anyone who makes a joke or criticises them.

Flipping it into the wizarding world, I feel like the reader would love really niche muggle things and would take great pleasure in showing their discoveries to the twins, who almost always have time to indulge the reader in their passions.

They carry themselves with confidence just like Eddie, unfazed (if not a bit annoyed) by the classist crap that seems to be the foundations of the wizarding world. You're a pure blood? Good for you, does being part of the sacred 28 really affect your day to day? Half blood, muggle born? Tell me everything about *insert weird hyperfixation muggle topic* and an endless sea of questions that even Arthur couldn't think of.

Blood status, school house and reputation mean literally nothing to the reader, hence why they get along so well with the Weasley family as a whole; all of them seeing the good in people and not the materialistic bullshit that so many others get wrapped up in.

In terms of relationships, it's most definitely Georgie that is head over heels in love with the reader. I feel like Fred maybe had a crush too at the start, their confidence being really attractive to him but after years of friendship, it fell to a pseudo-sibling like love. Fred is the more outgoing twin, the ringleader and often the instigator so to have someone as headstrong as the reader would be too much of a clash of personalities, though it would be a fiery and passionate relationship if they ever did cross that line. A battle of wits, you might say.

But George. George is so far gone and helplessly in love.

He's sometimes shy, quieter than his twin, more of an observer... which blends perfectly with the reader. The golden retriever and the black cat you might say. George has a mischievous side that is evident and the reader loves to pull this out of him but he's also the calm to their storm which balances the both of them out perfectly.

George would be the most supportive boyfriend of the reader in whatever they want to do, the big goal they spend their life working towards. Just like Eddie with his rockstar dreams, the reader has their own life plan and George will make sure that he supports them in every step of the way.

But

I think Fred would make friends with them first, a moth drawn to a flame and all that. He saw mischief and homed in on it, knowing the reader would be a valuable asset during their time at Hogwarts. George was maybe a little hesitant at the start of the friendship, maybe even jealous because he'd always had Fred's undivided attention but he quickly comes around.

What do you think?

[christmasbarbie-wp]

DAYLIGHT -- chapter one

--#: 838 words

summary: in which the new child services agent falls (quite literally) for the FBI's boy genius or in which the FBI's boy genius helps bandage up his sweet co-worker.

pairing: spencer reid x male!oc (cosmo bennett)

Silent rustling filled Spencer's ears as he peered at his bosses anxious movements over the rim of his sunglasses.

His hazel orbs had settled on the same page ever since Hotch refused to remove his eyes from his watch, ''hey pretty boy, any clue why Hotch hasn't moved from his watch.'' the genius spun in his seat to look at his co-worker, ''the child service team have agents who were meant to be here... an hour ago.''

The screeching halt of car wheels echoed through the quiet desert followed by a loud car door slam. From the all black vehicle emerged a man in his early thirties decked head to toe in baby pink, a bag topped with stuffed animals dangling off his shoulder. His beautiful blue orbs paired with his fluffy, blonde locks made him look like a disney prince. Cosmo Bennett was the definition of gorgeous, or at least that's what he was always told from a young age. Trailed after by a copper haired woman who seemingly didn't know how to button up her shirt as everyone could spot her lacey, scarlet bra. A digusted look sitting on her face as her shadow coloured boots hit the floor, ''I hate the fucking desert. There's sand bloody everywhere and if i get bitten by some fucking lizzard then Mallory is dead.''

The team of FBI agents watched as the woman continued to spew out complaints, ''andy, you know Mallory doesn't like it when you swear around children. They have delicated ears and anyhow I think that man's waiting for us.'' Cosmo pointed to Hotch who finally looked relieved, ''those are the child services agents?'' Emily quizzed placing her coffee down on the table.

''indeed they are, i'm not one to judge but you can see up her shirt.'' Emily continued gesturing to Andromeda, ''and him, well he's actually quite cute other than the odd obsession with pink.'' ''oh and he's just so handsome. Look at those charming blue eyes. Their full of warmth and happiness.'' JJ commented observing Cosmo.

Cosmo picked at the sleeves of his pink sweater. A silent attempt to control his off-the-wall, bouncy energy, ''are you alright Agent Bennett.'' Hotch noticed the man's display of habit.

''well, Mallory thinks I'm too energetic so she tells me when meeting new people to just focus on something else so that I don't get over-excited and start rambling.'' Cosmo offered a warm smile to the montonous man.

The copper-haired woman snickered to herself, watching as Cosmo distracted himself by watching a lizzard running across the sandy scenery, ''she's got a point sunshine...you are literally the most energetic human being i've ever met and i've got a four year daughter. Trust me Agent Hotchner, i don't want to be here but Mallory told me I had to babysit him because last time we left him alone he wandered off into a cat cafe and we couldn't find him for two straight hours.'' Andromeda stopped seeing Cosmo petting the top of the lizzards head, ''Cosmo put the bloody lizzard down now.'' Cosmo slowly set the lizzard down with a pout on his face.

''my team is over there if you would like to introduce yourselves to them.'' Hotch suggested while point to the group of darkly dressed people.

Andromeda hated talking to new people, especially ones who gave her judgy looks hence why she brought Cosmo everywhere with her, ''hello, you must by the rest of the Bureau, I'm Andromeda MacDonald and this is...''

''Cosmo Bennett, it's wonderful to be working with you.'' Cosmo interupted going to shake Spencer's hand.

''Cosmo, darling your hand's bleeding... how on earth have you managed that from the car to here? We've not even been here for an hour yet.'' Andromeda quickly passed the dirty blonde at tissue at the sight of blood dripping down his hands.

''I don't know, I'm quite a clumsy person. No problem easily fixed, I can just get a plaster.'' Cosmo reached into his jammed bag.

The hazel eyed genius watched as the man struggled to get what he was looking for, ''you guys go meet Hotch, I'll help Agent Bennett.'' Spencer dismissed the rest of the group, moving to crouch down in front of Cosmo.

''thank you, you don't have to help me you know.'' Cosmo giggled as Spencer cleaned his cut with an anti-septic wipe.

If you were to ask Spencer Reid what his first opinion on Cosmo Bennett was he could only use one word. Angel. Well that and sunshine considering how bright Cosmo's smile and eyes gleamed. Cosmo was enchanting in Spencer's mind, from his bubbly personality to his piercing greyish-blue eyes. He just adored this man he'd never met but then again, Cosmo loved Spencer just from their first interaction, ''I'm Spencer, it's nice to finally meet the best social and childcare services have to offer.''

''it's nice to finally meet you too doctor Reid... wait Mallory called me her best.''

[khepiari]

My first SatoSugu fic: My Beloved Blued-Eyed Demon

Warning: Again this is a reminder, this will be childhood to adulthood romance, so if you don't like don't read it. Suguru is 14 and Satoru is 8 in the beginning of the fic.

Prolouge: The Arrival Of The Blue-Eyed Demon

He was born a crime, and being associated with him meant death. Hence, I understood why my father arrived at that late evening with him at my doorstep. Understanding didn’t ease the shock of their arrival, but I chose to express it as a surprise, with exaggeratedly large eyes. He, whose name I still didn’t know, stood behind my father in clothes too big for him, and little hands lost under the frills of his dirty sleeves.

“Do you intend to raise him in secrecy?” I looked at him from the corner of my eyes; he stood up and stared at my father and me. “He is the most Gojo of all the Gojos we have ever met.” The Gojo family was known for their unique bloodline traits; either they were born with sapphire blue eyes, snow-white hair, or immense cursed strength that would alter the course of magic flow in the world. The child had the eyes and the hair, and if the gods gave him the mysterious six-eyes curse power, he would be unstoppable. Whatever my father’s plan was, it would fail; he was not an insurance; we were the temporary home of cats for a panther cub. Was I going to tell my father this? No. I was weak.

“Raise him? Son.” My father took two steps towards me, and I took steps behind. His hands clawed into my collarbones. “Think of the runt as a toy, use him however you may. But make sure he stays alive.”

“Father, this is a huge responsibility; why are you entrusting him to me? Shouldn’t my brothers or sisters be better at this job; they have superior powers.” I knew the answer, but I wanted the child to know what situation he was in. “You have limited use of my magic; how can I protect him?”

“Who asked you to protect him?”

Read here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51839767/chapters/131067802

[bonesandthebees]

I want to talk a bit more about how the brothers use their Voice. Tommy snaps first. Wilbur was going to open his mouth too, but his reaction to Tommy makes it pretty clear he still wasn’t going to use the Voice, which would have been a bad idea. It’s almost like Wilbur is too careful with the Voice. If Tommy hadn’t stepped in, it might have been too late. Sure Wilbur could have dealt with Phil and Techno at any place by making them fall asleep, but that was the only way it was going to be with Ranboo.

And it makes sense that Tommy snaps. His Voice only works with strong emotions and he spends the entire scene being very angry at Ranboo. He’s also a little younger and inexperienced. Wilbur’s mother made it very clear the Voice should be kept a secret. It’s drilled into Wilbur. Tommy doesn’t have that, or not to the same extend. He probably thinks it doesn’t matter since they are leaving anyway.

Wilbur disapproves of Tommy using the Voice here and Tommy knows it, but they don’t have time for a discussion. The idea that Tommy just used his Voice stresses Wilbur out to the point of making him feel sick: [Wilbur felt like he was going to throw up.] I might say Tommy is a little less responsible with his Voice. Or more that he gets carried away by the emotions that make it possible to use his Voice in the first place. So he makes Ranboo tell him the truth, once he has what he wants, he puts him too sleep.

It’s also given that Tommy’s Voice is weaker than Wilbur’s. He’s less experienced and younger. He hasn’t practised in months and only successfully pulled it off once on adrenaline. He even struggles to use it a third time in short succession. I feel like Tommy has less control too. The first command are probably as strong as he can get them, while the last is barely there at all.

(1/2)

-🎄

for wilbur's entire life, he's had exactly one card up his sleeve, one advantage that no one else around him has. it's always been his Voice. it's the one thing that's his. yes, tommy can use his as well, but wilbur is the one who has spent so many years practicing it nonstop to perfect it. so he's extremely careful with his Voice, because again, once that cat is out of the bag it's never going back in. wilbur was fully prepared to use his Voice during the escape, knowing that they're leaving anyway so why not, but he didn't want to use it unless they absolutely had to. tommy is much younger, impulsive, and less experienced. hence why he jumps to using it first.

(tommy technically was too late, but it was still a good thing in the end that he used it)

yeah tommy is a lot weaker at his Voice than wilbur is. he was purely fueled by his anger, and he's lucky he was able to make ranboo fall asleep at the end. it was extremely close to not being a strong enough suggestion.

[nightguide]

y'see this guy. he's the 17th Doctor, and he is not going through some wonderland hokey like his music, he is very much confrontational about the life he had lived when he was only making a scene to River in hell but too paradoxed in reality in Hollywood as for animation, nothing like you'd see on TV, it's how you'd convince the actor that he is not exactly all that make-pretend laughter he sees behind the screens but the world went to another conscience of the viewer, what if.. she were the enemy.

meet the Madhatter. the brother of Missy

Madhatter: ya like how i look, Anson?

Madhatter: or do you think i need a certain bow tie to quip the change of my final looks because appearances matter, y'know. it's all about preeZentation to appease the audience when you're going into their homes like an average man, no. my father (song notes play at the background) was quite.. the mother i knew (strong laughter at the background)

(cheshire cat forms around the viewers eyes as me in hell)

so.... take it like a hero. take it like me, you were brought down (drags 17 down like a puppet to his knees) and so the affair calls of a teenaged adult girl looking for a weason to wiv... a sowwy wife she wanted but she... (Madhatter's eyes turns into a strong striking red that makes flowers turn to gold) never came. !HENCE! (vines appears to tangle the Doctor upwards into a heartbreak, catches up to the reason where he is now in jack and the beanstalk as Jack) NO STRONG FAIRYTALES RESIST A GOOD MALADY (laughs like a Madhatter) CREAMING IN YOUR JEWELLERY OF SILVER, AND GOLD BE. THE. EYES. (to himself stroking his sleeve became cheshire cat) i was once her and i understood the reason of me being alive (tips hat to the writer of the tale *his sister, Master Maestro*) *cheshire cat became his cane of invisible and daring wonder* (laughs in Madhatter) last words.. Anson? (expression is an invited declaration of heartbreak but he feels content knowing the actress is alive in real time hence why he smiles downward with the eyebrows upwards in 'you already know', is actually an inviting expression of fully known heart to heaven) hmm? *patience for 10 seconds as Anson himself is wrapped with vines that can't make him do anything, so he can actually talk but he knew where this was going from so he does it out of blind hope, what 16th Doctor actually told him in the end to master his beginning*'

17: 'but i-'

Madhatter: 'last words come falling' *drops 17 like Jack became the golden egg*

(17 does not die but he does feel paralysed because his heart is yet to be found and he does not actually feel pain only until he gets out of Wonderland)

17: (does the full speech) well, sir. you have a dream inside your soul that you could have taken me back to, it never should have happened with you but you should have happened with me, you should have happened with me Linna, you should have happe-.. oh... not UNSPOKEN *to the Doctor Who writers* (sighs) i should have stayed more quiet or more vocal or more lackadaisical, no, no, NO, (cries) *to himself* not what mama should have asked for, not what (insert little brother's name here) asked for, in the end he was defending her, no, ugh, not what i am because every Doctor Who actor deserves his own tag line of just (kicks sentient flower who is actually his wife in real life and it bleats), *to the flower* you too huh?, hmm, *smiles*, i don't know why we're going through all this, doncha (tickles little flower as it giggles back) doncha. okay. okay. (breathes out) this time (winks at camera) i will. follow the yellow brick road ('follow the yellow brick road' music comes on at the background while he walks along holding the little flower)'

(17's screams from mid air actually follows him while he's walking on the yellow brick road)

[patchesnpins]

ʏᴏᴜ ꜱᴘɪɴ ᴍᴇ ʀɪɢʜᴛ 'ʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ʙᴀʙʏ

ꜱᴜᴍᴍᴀʀʏ: Will had never stepped foot in a roller rink till today, he'd never been too good with his ability to balance. but maybe a pretty boy may come around and give him a hand...

☾⋆*:｡ a/n: Will is such a sweetheart and deserves to have a cute little gay love life *sigh* he deserves so so much better hence why I just had to write this. this is a bit bad but I don't have much else to do but write

☾⋆*:｡ details: SFW//Will Byers x m!reader//w.c: 1.8k

It was shockingly easy to blend in at the roller rink, disappearing amongst dark shapes whizzing by and the distracting flashes of disco lights running along the floor and moving people. Just as long as you kept up with the crowd, rubber wheels coming down hard against the linoleum floors as you zipped through, you were no more than another person looking for a fun Friday night.

But you were betraying your own beliefs with how all you could focus on was the boy struggling to push himself forwards, his skates slipping beneath him on the smooth floor as he clung to the wall like a lifeline. Like Bambi’s first time on the ice, slipping and sliding on unsteady feet yet his Thumper was nowhere to be found, leaving him a deer in the headlights of the neon disco spotlights.

It was half off tonight leaving the roller rink rather busy and a few extra dollars crumpled in your back pocket. There were plenty of brand new faces, taking advantage of the deal to get some practice in without having to scour through the cracks in the couch for a few extra dollars. The busier the better it seemed because there were too many people for you to stand out even when you fell on your ass.

You’d never seen him around before and for a good reason, he seemed to have no idea what he was doing shuffling away from the edge of the rink on old and beaten up skates. His eyes were wide and you could see the panic in them even from across the rink, wearily taking in his surroundings as if all eyes were on him and his rather bad attempt at roller skating. 

The song is changing as you near him and he hadn’t even spared you a glance, eyes glued to the dingy brown skates on his feet as he moves just barely an inch out. “Hey!” You call out, voice barely managing to be heard over the new and loud song blaring from the speakers.

His eyes snap towards you and all you could think about was how much like Bambi he was, eyes wide and sweet like a cute little fawn with a hint of unsureness behind them. You wave a hand, still rolling towards him at a slow pace as if you were actually approaching an easily startled creature. You give him a smile but he doesn’t become any less tense, a bit of a scaredy cat huh?

“You’re not really going to get anywhere if you keep shuffling around like that.” You wear your smile like it’s etched into your skin, worried about making the already nervous boy anymore scared as you approach him. He swallows thickly and nods, eyes dancing between you and the all too many people dashing by you both, obviously less concerned about what you have to say. 

“If you want to move you don’t move your skate backwards, you push it to the side so that you can move forward. Like this-” You sweep your skate outwards, pushing yourself towards him and closing the remaining distance between you both. “See? Ta-daaa.” You throw your hands out over dramatically and earn a smile from him.

“I don’t think I can do that.” He speaks softly, words almost being drowned out by the loud music if you hadn't been standing so closely. The smile on his face is a mask of boldness, not translating to the fear filled and awkward little shuffle he was so content in doing. He wobbles a bit and your arm shoots out to steady him, shocking him more off balance than you had intended.

“Hey, hey don’t worry I’ve got you.” You try to ease his nerves as you hold him up, feeling like you were holding a kitten by its scruff as you cling to his sleeve. “Another piece of advice? Don’t stand so straight, you’ll bust your ass if you fall.” You giggle and a hint of realness pulls at his smile.

He almost seems the slightest bit embarrassed at how he was clinging to a stranger like this, averting his gaze and silently worrying once again about the people around the two of you. You don’t pay it any mind, having your fair share of experiences with stubborn boys who couldn’t be damned to be taught by another guy how to skate properly. Normally you’d let them go and hide your laughter at how out of control they were, falling over themselves. But this boy was a little different.

You held on tighter to his sleeve, not wanting to let go and have his feet slip out underneath him. Even despite his closed off nature you wanted to pry at the edges and learn a bit more about him, perhaps it was because he hadn’t brushed you off as sharply as most people do leaving you with an opportunity. Or maybe it’s the cute glint in his eye and how sweet he looked that lured you in.

“My name is Will.” You raise an eyebrow and his face scrunches up, obviously yelling at himself internally for such an awkward introduction. You steady him once again as his focus fades from the task at hand.

“Well, Will, would you like a little lesson on how to skate? Make it worth your money coming out here tonight?” You offer with a cheshire grin, hoping to convince the boy who you now had a newfound interest in into agreeing.

He sucks his lip between his teeth, chewing at it thoughtfully. It wasn’t much fun being left in the dust for the night, awkwardly spending the night struggling to even go around the rink just once. “If you don’t mind…”

“Wouldn’t be offering it if I did.” You laugh and let go of his sleeve, skating in front of him and turning to face him. He looks lost at the loss of contact and almost reaches out to grab for you again, his hand falling back to his side when a thought crosses his mind. “Can I hold your hands?” You ask, hoping to actually get him to take you up on the offer.

A moment of hesitance and a bit of worry resides in his doe eyes, snatched up and lost when the bright lights avert from his face. There’s a worry clinging to him like a weight and you offer your hands out in hopes to calm his nerves, waiting for his ever so slightly shaky hands to hold yours. Will wipes them on his pants quickly, then interlocks his fingers with yours.

His hands are clammy, awkward and unsure as if he’d never held another person's hands before. You squeeze his hands tightly in yours to provide a sense of security, a silent way of telling him that you won’t let him fall and he returns the action. Sweeping your foot out, you begin a slow pace backwards as you pull him along. “Just try to do what I told you, I’ll keep you steady.”

He follows your instructions carefully, crossing his legs and almost stumbling but you hold onto him tight. He’s shaky, wheels getting caught on the floor and leaving him on unsteady feet as he tries to keep up with you. Everyone zips by so fast but you both take your time, caught in your own bubble of slowed time as you both carefully make your way around the rink. Soft words of encouragement tumble from your lips with each time he manages to propel himself forward and you don’t miss how his grin grows.

He keeps apologizing with every slip or stumble, sorry’s becoming the only thing you can hear above the music and merging with the lyrics. You just laugh it off, you hadn’t been much better when you first began. “You’re doing better than me, almost broke my ankle the first time I skated!” 

His eyes blow wide at that. Will didn’t want to follow in your footsteps and you hold him tighter to reassure him that you won’t let that happen to him. “Did anyone help you learn how to skate?”

You blow a raspberry, shaking your head and carefully helping him round the corner. “Nope, did it all on my own. Had a rough time if you couldn’t tell.” You squeeze his hand and his fingers lightly trace the scars embedded in your palms. “Just so you know, don’t ever learn how to skate on concrete.”

“Good to know.” He smiles and finally looks you in the eye, his face illuminated by soft pinks and reds that dance in his own doe like eyes. For a quick moment you're entrapped in his honey sweet appearance, rosy pink lips pulled into a genuine smile as he looks at you with a saccharine admiration. He catches your gaze dropping to his lips before you can hide it. Your skin tingles, a shared electricity between you both that no one else in the place seems to notice but it's all you can feel.

Your mouth falls open slightly, a question stuck on your tongue that doesn't seem to roll off. You don't even notice how much you'd leaned back to take in his appearance till you feel yourself tilting too far back, the look of terror filling his once soft eyes again and the world around you seems to go rushing by. You grasp at him in a disastrous attempt to stay on your feet, skates shooting out from underneath you as you drag him down with your falling self.

You both slip and stumble, physics betraying you and you hit the floor with a painful thud, your breath rushing from your lungs and Will crashing down on top of you. You can feel the blood rushing to your cheeks at the shame of bringing him down with you, more worried about that than the fact you were gasping for air that couldn’t fill your lungs. 

You pry open your eyes to find Will almost too close for comfort, his breath hot against your cheek and making the air around you feel stuffy. He’s laughing though, genuine and unabashed as he tries to help you to your feet when he could barely get his skates beneath himself. It makes your insides go all fuzzy, turning your thoughts to mush. Sheepishly all you can do is return the laugh. “So glad my suffering is so funny to you.” Your heart is thundering in your ears at just how cute his laugh is, a bit of his true self leaking through the awkward facade he was wearing.

“Didn’t you tell me not to stand so straight?” He shots back, a bit tongue in cheek when he wobbles again. 

You lean in closely, a smile wide on your lips and his eyes widen a bit. You can feel his breath against your skin, hot and nervous at just how close you were. “Sorry, got a bit distracted.” You laugh.

The lights fade to a dark purple but it’d take a fool not to notice how dark his face flushed.

[phoeebsbuffay]

Imagine you found a job at a movie company, upon which you are hired to be the director’s assistant. It was when you came across to Hayden Christensen. Things might’ve gone out of hand before you know…

Warnings: none; fluff all the way.

Recommendations: “Gasoline” by HAIM feat Taylor Swift; “Overpass Grafitti” by Ed Sheeran.

***

You graduated at the University Y/C with good grades. You’ve spent five years dedicating to studies, doing some internship here and then. All the while you’ve been under constant pressure of finding a job.

Specially now. What was your life going to be? Just recently you’ve moved in with a friend, so the two of you were sharing an apartment in the city of Y/C. It was a good thing you disassociated with how much your family had been meddling in your life.

You were now having the first challenges of your adult life such as having responsibilities that didn’t let you sleep well. How’d you pay your bills if only recently you’ve been dismissed from your internship? Were you content with what you were having right now? What were your perspectives? You barely slept because anxiety came as a result.

Your friend was understandable and supportive, though. The moment you talked about it, she said she could handle until you found a job. You didn’t think it was fair to her to pay everything herself, so you sent your curriculums at every company possible, even if it was out of your area.

“How a bright student comes to this?” You asked yourself. You used to be a big nerd with great expectations led upon you. But well, what was the point dwelling in the past?

Then you saw an announcement online claiming a movie company was hiring. You clicked it. Why not? After checking everything properly so you wouldn’t be made yourself a fool online, you tried again.

Within days, however, you’d get your answer. Looks like your prayers were finally answered.

***

Your first day as director’s assistant was good. Despite your insecurities, all went well. You were acquainted mostly with the production’s crew. The movie you were about to be part of was of a futuristic kind—not your favorite genre, but if you were getting paid why’d that stop you?

Despite the friendly conversations here and there, you found yourself too shy to get included in what you perceived to be groups of people at the section of work. You hated to feel out of place so you decided to have lunch by yourself. It was precisely when this fall, handsome man spotted you.

That day you had your hair tied in a bun on top of your head with two locks dropping each side. You were wearing glasses, but even so you were always wearing some make up: the favorite color to paint your lips was usually red. It often made you feel red. You were also wearing a long sleeve white blouse, paired with jeans and sneakers. You didn’t think you were above average in many ways. Hence the surprise of why the owner of such beautiful blue eyes decided to sit at your table and join you for the lunch.

“Hey, how’s it going? I hope you don’t mind me sitting here.” He smiled, kindly.

You couldn’t remember who he was, despite the familiarity. Certainly he wasn’t part of the post production crew or something of the sort. But before you could overthink the matter, you offered him a smile:

“It’s all well, thank you. Not at all, be my guest.” You wanted to ask some questions, because, as your roommate said, that’s how one made friends. But maybe cat had your tongue.

“I’m Hayden, by the way.” He introduced himself. “You look new here. Is it your first day?”

Perplexed by how friendly and genuine he was being to you, a small smirk twisted in the corner of your lips. You nodded your head before presenting yourself.

“Nice to meet you. I’m Y/N.” You paused to have a sip of your coke. “How’d you know?”

“I’m familiar with the crew. These are nice people, you’ll see for yourself soon. Firsts days are usually tough.” He told you, so natural, so… open.

Such a good aura he had, you could feel it beyond his handsomeness. But you tried to ignore the physical attraction for your own sake.

“Thank you, Hayden. That’s kind of you. How long have you been working here?”

“I work by contract. I don’t think I’ll be here more than a few months. I’m sure you’ll be fine. Give it time.”

The conversation was interrupted as Hayden was called to attend a make up section. The two of you parted ways, and your eyes lingered a little too much after him. As if he felt it, he turned right in time to caught you. A smirk was seen as he waved at you, much to your dismay.

Bloody hell.

***

The rest of the day was easier to deal with: you were instructed to review the screenplay before giving it to the director and to make notes about certain scenes whose ideas he was sharing to you.

In the end it was a long day. All you wanted was to get back home, eat and fall asleep. You went outdoors, so distracted that you barely noticed the stairs as you opened the door. As a result, you misstepped and fell.

“Oh damn!” You groaned. Would’ve been funnier had it not been tragic. You came to find out you twisted your ankle as you tried to stand up.

“Hey, Y/N! Are you okay?” Hayden was leaving with his car from the garage when he saw how you stumbled and fell.

You couldn’t have been redder.

“Yes, thank you.” But a painful expression betrayed you.

Hayden raised an eyebrow.

“You don’t look well. Come on, let me drive you…” he was about to say ‘home’ when he noticed your difficulties to walk. “uh…hospital.”

“No!” You were quick to protest. “Please, mr Hayden, you don’t have to. I’ll be fine and…”

You were about to walk when you tumbled again. Thankfully, Hayden saved you. You swore you’d never blush furiously as you were now. Hayden noticed it though and he found adorable. He smiled.

“Come on, miss H/N. Don’t be stubborn. I have nothing to do today anyway.”

You sided eye him, but before you knew he was helping you to get in the car.

“How the hell did you manage to twist your ankle?” Hayden laughed quietly.

You put your tongue out at him.

“It’s not something I did willingly. I just…” you shrugged, a soft smirk popping up in your lips. “I suppose I was blessed being disastrous as hell.”

He gave you a long look, amusement filled in his irises. They were blue.

“I know that well. It’s a dangerous trait to possess”, said Hayden. “How would you get home in your state had I not showed up to rescue you?”

“A prince now, he?” You joked, refusing to look at him. He was still the very responsible for your blush. “I would get an Uber. I mean I don’t live very far from here.”

“Where do you live?”

“At Y/C.” You explained how to get there. “It’s not a very fancy neighborhood, but it’s all right.”

Hayden laughed again. He was parking the car as you engaged in a nice thread. The hospital was really near to your work, you noticed.

“Do I look like a fancy boy to you? I have no patience whatsoever to these things. If you asked me, I’d rather live away from all of this. As a matter of a fact, I have a farm.”

Wasn’t he a man full of surprises? You raised an eyebrow at him.

“No way.”

But there was little time to dwell on the matter since he was now dragging you to the hospital, clearly ignoring your protests. All the while you were waiting for the doctor to check your ankle, you appreciated his kindness. To be honest, you couldn’t tell why there were so many people giving him looks.

Hayden knew you were oblivious to his celebrity station, which entertained him. How come a director’s assistant had no idea of who he was? But he said nothing, willing to see how far this would go.

“A farmer, uh?” You brought the topic back after thanking him for his kindness in staying with you. It seemed that night would be a long one.

“Yeah. I raise sheeps in a farm I owe in Canada. When I’m not working there, it’s where I go with my daughter.”

You had to blink. Wait, what? A daughter? Well, this must mean something.

You never thought you were a fool for considering there might be some flirtation in his good manners. You reprehended yourself for your wishful thinkings.

Putting yourself together, you said in a playful tone:

“Oh, you have a daughter? I thought you were quite young for being a father”.

Hayden chuckled. However, there was a glint of mischief in his eyes when he perceived how easily your cheeks went red.

“Ha, if only. I appreciate though, but I’ve turned 41 recently.” Before he was about to tell you the identity of his daughter’s mother, you were finally summoned to the office.

As you went by, accompanied by Hayden, you began to question yourself. Since when did you generalize male behavior? Based on your terrible experience? You were in your mid 20’s, you should have known better.

“Young lady, how did you manage to twist your ankle?” Said the doctor, much to your embarrassment.

“If I told you, sir, you’d laugh.” You answered, chuckling nervously.

“It was, in fact, a very amusing situation.” Hayden agreed with you.

You could only roll your eyes. By the end of the day, all went well as it should be. It was close to midnight when Hayden dropped you off.

“Please, be careful next time.”

“I was so exhausted that my mind went black.” Now that you plastered your foot, you’d agree that your fall was terribly amusing. If it was someone else, you’d laugh your ass off.

Ugh. Busted by my conscience.

You two laughed.

“Thank you, though. You were very kind. And I hope your…” were you about to say wife? “…daughter is not angry at me for taking much of your time.”

Hayden could not help a chuckle at your words. So adorable.

“It’s all right. I’m only picking her up on the weekends.”

You were so tired that you did not pay attention to that detail. All you wanted was to go to bed. Perhaps seeing how exhausted you were that Hayden said:

“Hey, I could always talk to your boss about your absence tomorrow if you like.”

You were just opening the door when he said that. As tempting as that was, today was your first day. You’d not risk be dismissed right away.

“Oh no. It’s fine. I’m going tomorrow, but thank you.” You smiled. “Aren’t you a sweetheart?”

Did you just make Hayden blush? Maybe not, that couldn’t be.

“You are stubborn, Y/N. But seriously though, the doctor did recommend you to stay home for two weeks and..”

“Nah, I’m fine.” You giggled. “Thank you for the ride. Good night, Hayden.”

“Night, Y/N.”

You didn’t turn to see if he was waiting for you to cross the door and walk in your apartment safe and sound. If you did, you’d notice his blue eyes following your moves, making sure that you’d go straight to your home.

Hayden looked at the steering wheel, fingertips tipping on top of it. He’d recently divorced, there were wounds that needed time to heal. Though he could not deny he was physically attracted to you, and perhaps you too, Hayden had an instinct that you were… special.

The mere thought had him shivers over his back. Shit, what am I doing? He shook his head and turned the keys before driving back home. Hayden decided there was too much going on for him.

***

You hated to be the center of people’s attention. The moment you stepped inside your job the next day, you were forced to deal with a wave of people concerned over you. Suddenly, everyone of the sector you worked were shoving you with questions. It was all for gossip purpose, you knew it, but why not telling them what they wanted to hear? Your fall was pathetic to say the least.

And there you were, about to take a seat next to your boss when he said you should be at home.

“Look at you, girl! Why on earth are you here?”

“I need my paycheck”, you said in a playful tone even though this wasn’t a lie. “I promise I’ll behave.”

After convincing him you were there to perform your job, but agreeing you’d not make so many moves, the rest of the day went out just fine. Except by the part you were expecting to find Hayden there.

Why, why’d you expect that? He was your friend if anything. Stop acting like a teenage girl full of hormones.

But perhaps it was moved by your hormones that you’ve downloaded “Tinder” on your phone. And just as you were swiping left because no guy was this interesting, you heard his voice:

“So, on tinder now, are we?”

You rolled your eyes at him, but a smile came to your lips before you knew.

“It’s good to see you too. I’m doing great, thank you for asking”, you jested whilst keeping your phone on your purse.

Hayden laughed as he took a seat across from yours. That day he was wearing a white blouse and jeans. His hair was short, though a curl here and curl there charmed him. His eyes were also twinkling mischievously.

“Why should I ask when you, the stubborn one, are found right here when the doctor told you to stay home?”

“And then what? Losing my job? I’ll pass the opportunity, thanks.”

You laughed all the while you’ve exchanged ironies with each other. He was so easy going and his sense of humor matched yours. And that was how you ended up becoming good friends with him.

***

Oh but the day you found out he was not merely any Hayden who might’ve worked with the crew, but the Hayden Christensen whose scenes were being directed by your boss got you completely… what better word to describe it? Fangirling? Hell no, that was so unfitting. Perhaps, overwhelmed would say best.

“You’ve never told me you were the one who portrayed Anakin Skywalker, alias Darth Vader.” You told him the day he was taking you to have some coffee post work.

He laughed at your reaction. A game he was mostly amused to play with you. You were all…nervous? Just to be around him.

“What? I’m just an actor. I’m surprised you haven’t noticed that before”, he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

“Well I may be slow”, you told him, embarrassed. “I’d like to say in my defense I’m a pisces born lady.”

Hayden laughed louder this time. You’ve never felt burning red as you were that moment. If you were an actress, you’d be the leading role of a movie like Princess Diaries.

“Are we heading to these star signs? Hold on..” he parked the car close to “Starbucks”. He opened the door and helped you going to the store. Two months and you still had that thing in your feet. “You are not telling me you buy these shit, do you?”

“Eh… that depends.” You were telling him distractedly. Your phone buzzed: some guy matched you and sent a message. For now you ignored though. “I see astrological map as a way to get know oneself better and deeper.”

Hayden crossed his arms in disbelief.

“Really?”

“Yes. You may look at me as skeptically as you like, but it’s been useful for me.” You smirked at him.

“How so?” He asked curiously. Hayden usually didn’t take things seriously, but he also captured all the moments you were passionated about determined topics. So he appreciated to listen to you. “Please carry on. But first… we need some coffee.”

You chuckled.

“I’ll wait…”

As you did so, you picked your phone and began texting this handsome guy you matched on Tinder. Hayden turned his head to make a joke about something silly—but the kind of silly he knew you’d appreciate—when he saw that he was not the reason why you were smiling.

Why should he be disturbed by the sight of you texting excitedly and smiling down at the phone? The two of you were friends. If so, I shouldn’t be bothered by sentiments of jealousy.

Yet, wasn’t his choice to never let things go the other way around? That he had a chance and he missed it costed his pride.

For now, Hayden cared nothing about it. Once he brought the coffees to the table, he slided one to you as he sipped his. It was hot, and he may have burnt his tongue.

“Are you okay?” You asked him when noticing he was suddenly too quiet.

“Yeah.” He said casually. “Why wouldn’t I?”

“Because you are behaving weirdly.” You dropped the phone. “Has something happened, Hayd?”

“Hayd?” The man was brought to smile against his will. “What kind of short name is that?”

“One specially made for you.” You teased him, pleased to make him laugh. For a moment you were this close to be concerned.

“Well it’s not one really good, is it?”

“I don’t care.” You stared playfully. “It’s on it, Hayd.”

He smiled and so did you. You couldn’t help yourselves, could you?

***

A few months went on and your friendship was strong enough for you to confide him about this date you were having on Friday.

“Friday?! Friday is the celebration of the company. I thought you were coming.” Hayden protested. “Ewan is coming too, in case you were wondering.”

You narrowed your eyes at him.

“What are you suggesting, Mr Christensen?”

“That you are overly fond of ‘Star Wars’. You really didn’t need to put the Darth Vader’s mask and feigned my voice to tell my daughter that I was her father.”

You laughed so loud at the memory that people at the coffeeshop turned their heads at you. Hayden laughed too, however far more discreetly than you. That day he was referring to was the one you went with him to pick his daughter because his ex-wife would leave work later that day. It was the first time you met his little girl and the two of you got along pretty well. You came to find out Hayden had a Darth Vader’s mask somewhere and used to play with his daughter. Much to his dismay. Which was all the more entertaining.

Barely you knew he loved watching you bond with his little girl. It might have awakened something within him.

“It was so funny, Hayd!” You giggled uncontrollably. “Brie Rose agreed! She told me my voice did manage to sound like yours.”

“What should I think about that?” Hayden chuckled. “She did like you, though. I appreciate you managed to distract her even if it was to the point where she forgot to do her homework.”

You smiled. That day your hair was down in curls, a vision he appreciated.

“Why thank you. If you need a nanny, you can always call on me.” But then you said: “So Obi-Wan Kenobi is going to be there, uh?”

Hayden rolled his eyes, but his smile was still there. You found yourself enjoying more than enough how his smile was warm and embellished him.

Uh-oh. Deadly territory.

Specially when his eyes met yours.

“So. Does that mean you’re cancelling your date?”

“I’m not so sure. I was considering taking him.” You said, unsure if that was what you said because his smile faded away.

“Whatever you say…”

“You know, if it was a costume party, I’d go dressed as Padmé. Would that make you less moody?”

Hayden sighed heavily.

“I do hate how easily you made me smile, evil creature.”

You giggled, your heart softened for seeing all was good. But why should you be concerned with that?

***

You shouldn’t take a stranger to the date. As it matter of a fact, you changed your mind. The company feast was an occasion too much a big of deal to bring a guy you’ve never seen before.

But for that event, you’d have to wear a fancy dress. Unwillingly so.

“If I may say so”, your friend and roommate was the one fixing your hair and borrowing you a gown. “You were never content with the friendship Hayden offered you. And I don’t think he was either. I saw how he looked at you when he was here the first time. Hayden is in love with you as you are with him.”

You may have blushed but you refused the idea. Frantically so.

“You are making things up.” You denied that because you wouldn’t like to end up hurt. “I won’t feed myself with nonsenses.”

“Are you admitting you are in love with him?” Your friend asked with eyebrows raised.

Your pink cheeks often betrayed you…

***

Hayden was talking to Ewan and his wife about the party. Jokes here, jokes there, his eyes were pulled somewhere else and there stayed.

You were dressing magnificently in a silver gown with details in black. Your hair was loose in long curls. Your make up was simple but effective. All eyes were on you, but you barely seemed to notice.

“I think you shouldn’t miss the chance when it’s knocking at your door”, said Ewan when seeing the reason why his friend was suddenly distracted.

“What?” He said. “No, no. I was simply…”

“Admiring her? The one whose name you spoke at least thrice a day?” Ewan laughed. “Come now, been there, done that.”

“Yeah, but…”

Ewan placed a hand over his shoulder and said:

“Life’s too short to be wasted on fears and “what ifs”. Go on. I have a feeling she’s been waiting for you.”

Hayden hesitated, but eventually he did so.

***

You’ve never felt so out of place as you were now. Amongst celebrities, rich people, you didn’t feel like you were part of this world. Though you greeted them for some minutes because of your boss, eventually you grabbed a champagne and stayed outside. The cold wind blew against your hair and you were haunted by a disappointment.

Why?

You weren’t sure. It was when he found you.

“I thought you’d be inside having some fun.” His voice made you smile. Maybe you turned a little too fast.

Hayden was not too far from you. He’d been watching you from afar and when seeing you were disappointed with something, he decided to make himself seen.

“It’s too loud and too rich for me.” You said, smiling when he laughed.

“I get that feeling.” He paused to have a sip on his champagne. “Where’s your date boy?”

You slapped his arm playfully.

“I don’t have one. I cancelled.”

He sensed there were words that you choked in your throat. Hayden wished you were…more loose in regards to that. Was he any more different, though?

“I’m glad you did.” He placed his champagne on the table and took yours from your hands too. “I can’t take this anymore, Y/N.”

You looked at him surprised.

“What are you saying?”

“I’ve made myself a fool in these last months. I made me believe your friendship was all that I contented myself with, but it’s a lie.” He lifted your chin. “I want more. If you allow me, I’ll show you how.”

You melted in his arms. A smile slowly began to spread upon your lips.

“I want you.”

Hayden smiled as he leant forward when pressing you against his body.

“I want you too.”

It was when he finally kissed you.

***

Epilogue.

Hayden watched as you ran around the house playing with his daughter. A smile ran over his lips as he prepared breakfast.

He had a surprise for you. Though he was more practical than anything—he could hear you teasing about his aries personality, deprived of patience—he was still a romantic. As Ewan would often say about him, chivalry was not dead when it was about Hayden.

So there you were at his favorite house in the Canadian farm where green painted the landscape you loved, giving peace to you both. Dressed in warm, cozy clothes—red and black pajamas, in fact—you were chasing your boyfriend’s daughter when you head him say:

“Breakfast’s ready!”

You managed eventually to grab the little princess and took with you downstairs where her father was waiting.

“The most beautiful women in the world. Aren’t I lucky?” Hayden said when greeting you both.

“You are the sweetest my dear. Why, I could never compete with Brie, right?” You told her, tickling her sides as she giggled.

You felt his loving gaze set upon you, wishing to return but Brie stole your attention. It was right in the midst of jokes, simplicities and love that your dream would come true.

As Brie came to give you a bouquet of white roses, you were delightedly surprised to find a velvet box in it. When you opened it, Hayden came right behind you. He turned you at him, and his smile only spread when he saw the happiness blurring your eyes with tears.

“Will you marry me, Y/N?”

“Yes, my love. A thousand times yes!”

So he kissed you, sealing thus a promise you two made. It was the beginning of a fairy tale for you…

[poppadom0912]

High

Characters: Every other character from Intelligence, Connor Rhodes x Reader.

Warnings: Mentions of Drugs, swearing, violence, very brief murder.

Summary: Long story short, your undercover goes wrong.

Part One, Part Two

*****

You were in your element. Everything had gone smoothly and was going to continue like so unless anyone was prepared to plan their funeral.

Technically, this was a drug bust but for that to happen, Intelligence needed some inside info which meant someone going undercover. Of course, you were the first to volunteer.

Previously, before transferring to Intelligence, you used to be in Narcotics, and it was always your strong suit. Your parents were both involved in drugs, it got messy very fast and before you were even in high school, your mother overdosed, and your father was killed as payment for his debts. Ever since then, you dedicated your life in preventing that from happening to anyone else.

No one had a reason to object and after several reruns of the plan, assurance of code words and your team wishing you the best of luck despite knowing you wouldn't need it, it still felt necessary. You were pretty damn good at your job and had the best team behind you.

Looking around the very, very dimly lit room, the few LED lights changing from one vibrant colour to the next, irritating you when the colour changed to a dark blue, red or green that made it difficult to see properly.

It was getting later and later into the night. You hadn't slept in over 24 hours or so, you were beginning to lose count and all you wanted to do was go home and cuddle with your cat, maybe call your boyfriend if he wasn't at work.

You made sure to call him before leaving the precinct, briefly telling him what you were doing and saying you'd call him once everything was over.

Little did you know of the events about to unfold.

Your dress was pretty simple, nothing fancy that you were wearing for a second time, the first time being when you wore it to some charity event at the end of last year with Connor. You had nothing else so why put such an expensive dress to waste.

The dress was all black, coming down above your knees. The sleeves were sheer black, a little poofed at your shoulders as it reached down to your thumb, cuffing at your wrist. Exiting the break room all dressed up received several whistles and compliments upon compliments that were nothing but teasing coming from the team.

Yawning, you covered mouth as a reflex but took the few seconds to speak. "I may as well be blind with these lights, you got anything for me?"

In reply, you got several voices replying with no but all saying it in their own way making you groan loud enough that only they would hear, ignoring the few snickers you received.

Tapping your fingers against the bar, one finger after the other as you went from your pinky, to your ring, middle and then index, repeating several times and getting into a rhythm that made the tapping sound soothing. It was something you often did when you were bored, the sound always annoyed Connor but that only made you continue, going faster.

Your eyes dragged around the room again, looking for any abnormalities as the lights changed colour again. You let yourself inspect every other person you laid eyes on, girls were drunk, couples were dancing together, and you were sure that in the dark corner you would find people making out and some maybe even going further than just kissing.

You felt yourself heave at the sight of a couple going at it like bunnies in the further corner of the room. Normally, since it was the darkest part of the entire place, you wouldn't have noticed but there were spotlights.

The owner of the club, who was the guy you were looking for. He had spotlights in the club and as they landed on a person, said person would be taken by his guys and never to be seen again. Hence the club's name, Spotlight.

Before the spotlight found a target, never looking for anyone specific, it would roam around the room, and it just so happened to graze over the couple in the corner. As you were following the spotlights movements, you saw everyone it went over.

"I'm going to buy myself a drink, forget I ever saw that." You said to yourself, flagging down the bartender and ordering a beer. You were still at work and even though you had a decently good tolerance to alcohol, you weren't taking any risks in your order.

Your comment only allowed further laughter from the team. The sound consistent in your earpiece covered by your strategically styled hair.

Taking a sip from the beer the bartender handed to you, you went back to analysing the room before your eyes landed on a man dressed in a black shirt and pants, balding hair, grey stubble and a cigarette between his fingers, that's what caught your eye first.

Everything was allowed in the club, everything as illegal as could be was allowed but not smoking.

Smirking behind the brown bottle, you took a sip before whispering. "Found em."

His eyes settled on every other girl. His targets were never specified ranging from all genders, and none looked the same. Tonight, it seemed his targets were modest girls, the less erratic ones that preferred to have a drink to themselves as they watched their friends get as drunk as possible.

Lucky for you, it meant that there was no need to get up and into character, you were good right where you were sitting alone sipping on a beer.

Trying to catch his attention, you put a leg on top of the other, continuing to sit idly, drink and occasionally fiddle with your dress or a fallen strand of hair.

Gulping, goosebumps ran down your spine, your eyes screwing shut from the sudden bright light you were exposed to.

You were in the spotlight.

"Let's do this." You whispered to yourself, both to hype yourself up and to let everyone over the comms know that it was finally time to get serious.

Sitting up straight, you set the beer down on the bar counter and looked directly up, into the light, basically blinding yourself but you had to assure yourself it was all a part of the act.

Hissing at the bright light, you spun in the chair coming face to face with a set of broad shoulders of a man that wasn't your main target but one of his many, many henchmen.

"Uh, hi?" You nervously waved at the serious man, taking note of the gun securely sat on his belt. The only weapon you had on yourself was the knife strapped to your thigh, your heels, and obviously hand to hand combat which would include using your hands and legs, but you had no problem getting dirty.

Wasting no time, the man’s hand clutched your arm, dragging you with no effort at all, to the back, away from the public eye.

Pretending to struggle in your heels, wincing at the hands pressure, you were brought down a set of metal stairs that you did not remember being in the buildings layout. This wasn't good. You were going into territory you, nor any of the team were familiar with and that put many screws in your plan.

You debated on whether or not to say one of the first warning code words. You could say it and let the team know from the very start when things started to not go right, or you could wait a bit longer to see how things went.

All four walls of the large room were black, concrete floor, you took notice of the stacks of drugs in the room, the amount taking you by surprise. You were not expecting that much, no one was.

A man came walking in from the same directions you came from, his chuckle made you want to smack his face, but you were being held back by both your thoughts and the big man clutching your arm.

"You by yourself miss or you got a friend we can go back and pick up, bring her down to keep ya company?" He asked, taking slow steps towards you as he stomped on his finished cigar.

Shaking your head slowly so your hair wouldn't get ruined, the man sighed in faux disappointment but then perked up, a sinister smile making its debut.

"Perfect. Let's get started then, shall we?"

Being pushed into a cushioned metal chair, the lights flickered and his bodyguards, henchmen, whatever they were, started to leave the room taking black bin bags filled with drugs with them.

What the hell?

Slightly alarmed, you sat up straight and watched your target with careful eyes. You needed to warn your team, you waited too long and didn't want to waste any more time.

"The names Ian." He introduced himself, but you already knew his name, his last name, date of birth and even the last restaurant he ate in along with the meal he ordered.

"My friends call me Paris." You started with, trying your best to get the word out. Seeing his apprehension at your 'name', you briefly explained. "I go to Paris every holiday for this bakery that has the best crepes. I definitely recommend if you’re a crepe over waffle guy."

Internally, you were strangling yourself at your cover up story being so shit but as he hummed and nodded, it obviously worked.

Ian then went into storytelling, letting you know how he got into the drug business and what he was going to do to you. However, unknown to him, you already knew everything and was focused on your surroundings rather than his droning voice.

It alarmed you that you two were the only inhabitants left in the room with all the furniture, no trace of drugs left behind making you worry a little.

You made the mistake of not listening to Ian's description of what he was going to do to you. Your eyes continuing to survey the room and landing on metal tanks similar to the size of a fire extinguisher.

Closing your eyes slowly, you let them stay shut before taking in a deep breath, holding it for however long was needed so you didn't inhale anything you weren't supposed to.

The sound of hissing followed the abrupt stop of Ian's very detailed description that you were regretting not paying attention to. His laugh filled the large room, and a few men came jogging down the metal stairs as if his laugh was their cue.

Standing up abruptly, you tapped the side of your thigh, prepared to whip out your knife.

Ignoring the funny smell, you looked at the muscly men with a bored expression that randomly set them off.

One by one, they came lunging forward and you wasted no time in taking the hilt of your knife, stabbing the first dude in the shoulder, kneeing him down in his parts before shoving him head first on the concrete. The second dude managed a hand on your non-dominant arm - stupid man - allowing you to still use the knife, stabbing him in the abdomen, kicking his legs and not waiting for him to hit the floor before stepping in his hand, heel coming off as it lodged itself deep and wouldn't come out no matter how hard you tried with your foot.

The next two came forward together and it was at this time your team made themselves present in your ear. The familiar female voice putting you at ease despite what was happening. "Y/N, you good?"

Grunting, you held your breath as you stabbed one of the two in their bicep, where the knife stayed, pushing him back so he wasn't in your way and found yourself face to face with the other. "Just peachy Kim, just peach- woah!"

Another man caught you off guard as he trapped you between his arms on the floor. "Oh- Kinky." You said with a smirk as you caught your breath, ignoring your banging head and punched his nose.

The man stood up, but since he was taking his time, you were able to push yourself to sit on his shoulders, thighs suffocating him. As soon as he dropped, face first to the ground, you got off of him and looked at the last man with slumped shoulders.

Your eyes were getting droopy, limbs feeling heavy as you debated on attacking first.

The man picked up a screwdriver, holding it as though he was going to stab you but approaching him, you harshly slapped his face, relishing in the sound it made and stabbed him in his thigh with your remaining heel that kept you at an uneven height.

Struggling to breath, you spun around to survey the room, ignoring the unconscious bodies you found that Ian managed to escape but with your hazy thoughts, you weren't too sure.

Before you could let the team know Ian had escaped, you were met with darkness.

*****

Hands on her hip, Hailey sighed in relief watching as patrol apprehended all the men responsible, including Ian who came out running. All the club-goers were long gone meaning all that was left was the last bit of arrests, putting the drugs away at the district and taking you home.

Turning to her partner, Hailey questioned him as she looked around for any sign of a dressed up woman among all the uniformed officers. "Hey, has Y/N come out yet?" She nudged him with her elbow.

Jay seemed to do the same as her, looking around the street for any sign of their teammate but after finding nothing, he shook his head.

Frowning, Hailey called out for you on the comm that remained in her ear. "Y/N, you there?"

With no reply, she asked again. "Anyone seen Y/N?"

With negatives all across the board, Hailey and Jay turned to face the closed of club in sync.

Picking up the yellow tape, Jay nodded towards the club at their gathering team. Everyone went in pairs, remembering the layout of the club it would be quick and easy to find you.

"How fun." Adam shone his flashlight on the broken door, poorly poking it open and looking down the pitch black corridor, his single light doing him no favours. "Seems our guy had a secret lair."

Giving everyone no more than a second to digest his words, Adam went ahead, trying his best to navigate blindly, trying not to curse when he nearly slipped on a smooth surface. Looking down, he found metal and upon dragging his flashlight, he found a lovely set of totally inconspicuous stairs.

His steps echoed as he got down as fast as possible but as he reached the bottom, he found lights and decided on abandoning his flashlight.

The sight would be hilarious if it weren't for his unconscious friend. Men strewn around the room, all also unconscious but not dead, heels in two of them as they all found themselves lying on top of each other. The only person who wasn't seriously hurt was you.

You were on your side, hands on the floor as if you were going to push yourself up, feet bare and your hair looking as angelic as could be.

"Oh man, Y/N." Adam dropped to his knees, laying you flat on your back and assessing for any serious injuries.

Before being able to radio the team, Adam took notice of the off smell, eyes snapping to the empty tanks in the corner of the room.

Not even thinking twice, he hooked his arm under your knees and rested your neck against his inner elbow. He jogged up the metal staircase, coming face to face with a flashlight as he reached the top.

"Well." Kevin looked at your sleeping figure, stepping back so Adam could get you out.

"She's not hurt from the looks of it, that blood is most likely cause she hit her head but that's it." Adam let everyone know as he entered the main part of the club that the rest of the Intelligence unit occupied. "I'm not too sure what that was downstairs, but she's inhaled some sort of gas."

Hearing that there was a downstairs was the first surprise but hearing the word gas immediately meant notifying CFD.

Just as they were going to ask for an assist from an ambulance, you groaned making all eyes fall on your figure.

[kavikaslana]

Ayato because a lot of people like him apparently. I get the appeal tbh

I got him literally at the most 30 minutes after his release at I think like 23 or 24 pity. I meant to pull on Venti’s banner bc I had a guaranteed 5 star. I still got him though, might not get childe now :( I had to use the pulls I saved for childe on venti instead

Random ass headcanons because I wanna get into writing again while I have energy

Sfw <3

Feel like he has his own, less expensive version of his jacket for you. It doesn’t have sleeves nearly as long as his though, I’m sorry

110% has a safe and when you look in it, it’s a piece of paper that explains how he pulls boba from behind his sleeve

Chess with him like in that one scene with him and Thoma, except he lets you beat him

^ he will crush you in chess if you start bragging a little too much about beating him

Kinda mean. Probably comes up behind you and nudges you just a little too hard to kinda knock you forward

The food he fucks up is still edible but he won’t eat it, therefore I think he’s picky. Just made something savory instead of sweet I think in his voiceline, or maybe it was the other way around

Leaves his sword straight up just sitting on your bed, probably because he forgot to grab it before he got up

On that note, it’s probably under his pillow or the bed every night bc yknow, easy access if something happens

He snores fucking louder than a jet engine, I’m sorry sweetie

Thoma’s somehow always in your room more than you. Probably to clean up the shit ayato takes in there and then leaves there

Has definitely taken some of his work into your room and finished it in bed, and then just forgot it the second he needed it

^ hence why Thoma’s practically always in there, even if he’s not cleaning

Sometimes he has Thoma pick up stuff for you when he’s busy and claims that he did everything to get it for you

He’d probably let you brush his hair while he’s working either really late or really early

Yknow how when you’re trying to do something without making much sound and you go a lot slower? My guy spends 30 minutes trying to get out of bed just to not wake you up

Thoma ends up knocking on the door and waking you up anyway while he’s halfway out of the covers

There is ONE clean spot on his desk and that’s where he lets you sit when he’s busy

Kinda likes when you just sit there with him

Maybe get a book and read a little bit of it to him. He’s paying attention… as much as he can at least

Still likes just hearing your voice. You could be gushing over some random cat you saw earlier and he would not know what you’re saying but still takes comfort in it

Probably puts his hand on you randomly. One day it might be on your shoulder, the next it could be on your thigh. Don’t point out the last one though, he does it subconsciously and will turn the same color as Thoma’s vision

Has fallen asleep during his lunch breaks because you let him rest his head on your shoulder

If you’re in bed when he’s not busy, depending on where you’re facing, he might kinda pounce on you

If you’re napping… he still would. If it’s after noon and you’re sleeping at all, it’s fair game for him to wake you up

Has memorized your favorite boba (if you like it)

Most likely had a drawer in his desk that’s solely just snacks for both you and him. And Ayaka if she manages to find them

Thoma gets none bc he can make his own food

He had someone clear out a room in the estate for you and now it’s your own little area. Not like you don’t have your bedroom-

If you draw, he insists you try and draw him and Ayaka at least once. Thoma too if you want to, but he thinks it’d be cute to have a family picture drawn by you

Jokes about you dueling with him and Ayaka a lot

Forehead kisses when he’s stressed!!! And not for him, for you, cause nothing calms him down quite like seeing you smile… except boba, but that’s besides the point

Probably squishes your cheeks when you stare at him for a little too long

Cooks with you but gets the seasoning mixed up. He sucks at measuring things too

Likes when you go with him to see another commissioner, though you have to wait outside. He just likes the walk with you tbh and he doesn’t really have much free time so that’s the closest thing he can get usually

You cannot tell me he doesn’t wear makeup of some kind, whether it’s eyeliner or… idk I suck with makeup. Anyway, he’d let you try your hand at doing his makeup, or he’d do some of yours, whatever you want <3

You can do the math. Don’t ask why I have so many pages, I wanted razor and didn’t get him until 40 pity and venti at 160

[captnjacksparrow]

In modern aus people always portray the characters as white and American :/. In this one story i read they have white naruto and say sasuke looks "vaguely asian". Why use the word vaguely even. Sometimes the rest of the characters are white and sasuke's the only one who is Japanese. I would prefer modern aus based in Japan because their names aren't American at all. I always wonder why specifically America too. How would you deal with ethnicity if you wrote a modern story?

I wrote a post about 'Why I am not interested in FanFic' and hasn't posted yet... Because this 'Ethnicity' thing was also one of the reason but I was so conflicted about whether to include it.

Thanks to this Ask, I am not the only one.

[[Disclaimer: This post is not about bashing the Fic writers from the West. This is more about me, as a Reader, feeling extremely Disconnected because of the way Naruto and Sasuke were being characterized without having a single cultural reference to where they are from. The Author himself has said, “This is a Japanese Manga written for Japanese Readers...” Also, the manga was drenched with so many of their cultural references. And when I don’t find any of them in the Fics... that’s where it gets total awkward.]]

The thing is.. Male Friendships in Asian media always. like always have a nuance. Most of the times, the Characters involved don’t even talk about themselves ALL THE TIMES. They mostly talk about something else (like their life problems) and argue about that at a good length... Or even when they talk about themselves for the major part, there is always some conversational playfulness/sentimentality involved in it... (not always in a sexual way though). Chapter 698 says Hi. 

However, when you take a Western Gay movie, for ex... Broke back Mountain... Whenever they get together for every 3 or 4 years... They talk about their wives and mostly about themselves, they fight and then they go intimate... Even in some Lesbian movies, this is the same case... The amount of dialogue between 2 characters is veryyyyyy less... This is the same pattern I see in SNS fics as well... Like, they behave like American Characters.... 

That’s my whole problem. 

Where is the Real conversation, Damn it????

Let me just shamelessly pull out a scene from another Asian novel and show how conversation can be done between 2 characters... I changed the Original character names with Naruto and Sasuke... 

Imagine, Naruto and Sasuke were in a mission... They went to have a drink... But Sasuke is a bad drinker.. He can’t even consume more than 1 glass. But Naruto is a good one... And hence he wants to pull some pranks with Sasuke during this drunken conversation... [[Mind you... They are not in relationship, yet... And Sasuke was crazy drunk so he won’t speak much]]

And, Sasuke was so honest after he was drunk. His actions and comments were also… bolder! Since this was a rare occasion to see such an honest, open Sasuke, it would've been impossible for Naruto to treat him with respect and not play any tricks.

Naruto used his sleeves to wipe off the drops of water on Sasuke’s jaw and put his arms around him, "Sasuke. Now, are you going to do whatever I tell you to do?"

Sasuke, "Mnn." Naruto, "You'll answer whatever I ask you?" Naruto put one knee on the bed and smirked, "Okay. Let me ask you. Have you… secretly tasted the Wine that you hid in your room?" Sasuke, "No." Naruto, "Do you like Cats?" Sasuke, "Yes." Naruto, "Have you ever lied before?" Sasuke, "Yes." Naruto, "Have you ever liked anyone?" Sasuke, "Yes." All of Naruto’s questions were just for the sake of them, not that he really wanted to find out about Sasuke’s private matters. He simply wanted to know whether or not Sasuke would really answer whatever he asked. 

Naruto continued, "How about Sakura-chan?" A frown, "Hmph." Naruto, "How about Karin?" Indifference, "Huh." Naruto grinned and pointed at himself, "How about this one?" Sasuke, "Mine." "…" Sasuke stared at him, slowly and articulately stating, "Mine." Naruto suddenly understood. He took Kusanagi sword off his back, thinking to himself, When I pointed at myself, Sasuke probably thought that "this one" meant Kusanagi.

I adore this scene, tbh. [[Don’t tell me that you didn’t smile after reading this scene]]

Look how big the conversation goes and how Naruto was just being playful and wants to troll Sasuke. 

Even in Boruto movie, When Sasuke went to meet Naruto in the Hokage office, they were conversing about Boruto and having a decent Conversation. 

Or take that scene, where Naruto confessed under the Bridge... He was talking a lot... Before that we’ve never seen him talk much to Sasuke like that.

Or take that scene where Shikamaru went to Naruto’s house to knock some sense in him after Jiraiya’s death. 

This is what I call it as conversational nuance which I find consistently in most of the Asian media. I don’t see these types of conversation in fanfics at all. And even if they talk, they talk nothing other than how to Kiss, Hug and Segs. SMH.

I would prefer modern aus based in Japan because their names aren't American at all. I always wonder why specifically America too.

Well, Most of the Authors are from America... And that’s why I guess (???). My problem is not their ethnicity... It’s just that I can’t see Ennis or Jack conversing like how Naruto or Sasuke were conversing in the Above drunken scene. And somehow fic writers are not getting this nuance. That’s why Doujinshis have their characterization better. Because they are from Japan, China or Taiwan.

How would you deal with ethnicity if you wrote a modern story?

Simple. I would 

Watch Movies or TV series or Read other Mangas of the same Genre related to the Country where it was created or 

Read the Author’s notes that was written in the Back page of his manga or

Read their Fanfics/Doujinshis and see how they portray N and S in modern AU. Because they know better as to how to portray those characters with their own cultural reference.

By doing one/all of the above, You are Guaranteed to find some relation with the Original Material.

For Example,

This is Kishimoto’s notes from Naruto Manga. Chapter 67. 

He was talking about his very strict dad. LOL. And his generosity of his Friends. 

Didn’t I say the same thing that Asian Kids prefer being around their Friends and Siblings more than their Parents???? Here, Kishi was also doing the same. Knowing that his parents wont buy the stuff he wanted, his immediate resort is his Brother... And then his Friends.

What’s interesting to me is, Kishi is mentioning that the word “Game” should not be breathed in his House... Otherwise his father would start to lecture him to go study... Why am I not surprised???... LMAO... And I was like, “No way Kishi, my dude!!!”.

Because he literally emulated that attribute of his Dad and gave it to Mikoto and Fugaku. LOL...

“Home Work!”

Just like Kishi... Sasuke also wants to play... And Just like Kishi’s Dad, Mikoto is lecturing about Home Work... 

This Importance to Education is what I’ve been saying all along in the Fugaku Character analysis I’ve wrote sometime ago. 

And if you read their Doujinshis, you could find a lot of cultural references. There is this Doujin named, “Yotsudake” written in modern day. I swear, that’s one of the best fluff Modern AU doujin I’ve came across with tons of Cultural Reference. Yotsudake means A Classical dance from Okinawa (Japanese prefecture). 

Read the Doujin here and you’ll see what I mean and how this above picture relates to the Story. [[Arrrgh... Sasuke smiles a lot in this Doujin...]]

So, If I ever write a story by keeping the ethnicity factor in my mind... I would definitely do all of these I mentioned above like watching movies, Author notes, Read articles and make it faithful to the adaptation rather than whitewashing with my own cultural flavour with it. 

The Author literally said that, the Manga was bathed with Japanese Cultural references... Is it wrong of me to expect the same in Fics as well???

I am not accusing the other country fic writers in any way. It’s just that, if they can expend their energy into writing 50 chapter long fic about Naruto/Sasuke.. It would be nice if they could make it even better by introducing these cultural nuances. I mean nobody is asking them to Go to Japan and understand these things... It’s just that they need to put some extra effort to research within the available resources they have, is more than enough. Like for a start, How about making the Characters to talk more about anything other that segggssss... Is it so hard???

[halcyon-writings]

you know how people are writing the reader/yuu/mc being inspired around different characters, this is my take (but idk if can you guess who the inspo is)

maybe the tiniest of spoilers from books 1-3

gn!reader (i call you and grim material gworls but no it's not meant to be gendered it is the Vibe).

nav.

night raven college’s newest prefect was probably the topic of most conversation ever since their arrival.

from how well they composed themselves to the pleasantries they would give if approached occasionally. however short they may have been anyway.

at least, that was how they were outwardly.

the prefect’s smile could easily hide jabs and barbs that made anyone who bothered them or the little monster accompanying them flinch or want to run away. but of course, no one would believe it easily.

ace of course, watching how sweet you were to grim, certainly didn’t at first.

it had occurred when you had first enrolled at nrc, you and your little companion curiously gazing upon on the statues of the seven figures the students and faculty oh so revered.

of course, ace attempted to trick you both as he laughed in your faces loudly.

instantly, you make your displeasure to ace’s words known. your head tilts to the side as you glare. whatever laughter he had let out stopped. the little bit of information he had heard about you from trey and riddle didn’t even hint to anything like this.

you had been polite enough anyway, hence why the headmage had seemingly allowed you to attend with the cat, right? so why did he feel so shaken as your graze burned into his? as though you were looking down at him, before the expression is gone at the sounds of approaching footsteps. your charming smile returned, and grim settles into your arms.

he could’ve sworn he saw an eye on the cat’s bow staring at him.

and thus began a beautiful friendship. well, if slow tolerance led to actual friendship.

there were some mishaps here and there, grim running off, often to prove his greatness to the school, but you always seeming to know where he was. and the cat scurrying to you whenever he felt his bow was “loose” and your voice gently scolding him or letting himself get so disheveled. (riddle would say you reminded him of pomefiore’s house warden for that).

your observation skills were quite frightening too. somehow you knew just where everything was, and you had just started as a freshman! from knowing where he and deuce would be if you had needed them for something, to wherever grim would run off when he was bored with class work.

(although sometimes grim could have sworn that your long sleeves that he liked to train with [read: play] would move on their own).

you weren’t a fighter, you had said, standing back on the occasion that you, grim and the adeuce duo found yourselves in some scuffle of trouble. (it was a total lie, when one student had gotten too mouthy towards you and your infamous glare did nothing to dissuade them from continuing, they were found in the infirmary with a broken nose from a strong backhand.)

but then the overblots began. from riddle's caused by the amalgamation of the pressure pushed on his shoulders, leona's own frustrations with his position in his family (which you harshly called a bad inferiority complex with a sneer, it only served to only make the beastman angrier, turning your nose up at him even more so).

now more recently, literally recently, you stared down at the octavinelle housewarden as his henchman tried and failed to get through to him with words.

"and now this fabric is going to get all wet or covered with ink," you huff, more perturbed by the fact you’d have to clean it rather than, you know, fighting an over blotted azul. your sleeves having receded until it looked sleeveless, the fabric appearing like tendrils similar to azul's tentacles, catching your friends and nudging the tweels away.

(and you’re happy to send azul the bill for cleaning it afterwards, much to his chagrin).

now for general hcs bc i don’t feel like writing out things JDKSJD:

i, for one, think grim is a funny little guy, a little dude if you will. so that means that this mc/reader (idk man refer to them as you wish) also bonds with them. perhaps it's the understanding of struggling to survive, and taking what you can get, but you find yourself caring for the little guy and he does the same (although you are stronger, just let him have this okay).

that also means he gets a special little bow that you incorporate your fabric in with his new one (as the other one was too torn up for your taste, but you knew it's sentimental value so you let him keep it). And you'll tie it for him nice and snug each morning, because you gotta look your best yk. (you and grim are Material Gworls).

i think another person you'd probably get along with or at least begrudgingly respect is ruggie, similar to the reason above. you do what you do to survive. (although you may hold a grudge when he tried to make you lose your balance only to realize one of the fabric tendrils dug into the wall to keep you upright). otherwise, you two are okay and get along well enough afterwards. and jack because who wouldn't get along with jack.

you and ace definitely bicker (playfully, of course). at first you weren't a fan because of that initial meeting, but he grew on you like a fungus (he protests against this but you keep the title for him anyway). and yes you did laugh when the anemone situation happened. with deuce, i think you get along easier because of his earnest and straightforward personality. (although sometimes you consider just keeping a piece of fabric on his wrist to drag him away from fights he sometimes ends up a part of).

and it's not a post of mine until we've incorporated angst in some way, shape, or form. upon learning about trey and the fact that he's a big brother sometimes has you with a nostalgic expression. you don't exactly let your own history be known (except maybe to grim, but it is a very bareboned version), but you can't help but be reminded of your own big sibling. and now you were in a new place, all alone. trey notices, but won't say anything outright (and sometimes slips you another small dessert, his heart clenches, he wouldn't want his own siblings to be alone in some unknown place either). maybe eventually you reveal that part of your past, but for now, it's a closely guarded secret.

when it comes to classes, for sure you get the "a pleasure to have in class" on reports, so you slack off a little if it means you kinda just use the fabrics to write your notes or smth. ace is mad bc somehow you don't get caught napping during crewel's lectures. you just send him a smug look. (he says he's mad like he's not about to go to ramshackle dorm so you two can shit talk ppl bc u both are messy like that)

you do not have the Tea Kettle Moment, yet. (mayhaps a future set of hcs or smth idk i'm running out of steam)

this is lowkey fun and if u got this far ty for reading!!