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fl3shm4id3n · 2 years ago

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𝓑𝓵𝓾𝓮 𝓢𝓴𝓲𝓮𝓼

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝'𝐬 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬. 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞, 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞'𝐬 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬, 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐨. 𝐇𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐧.

ᴘᴀɪʀɪɴɢ: ɴᴇᴛᴇʏᴀᴍ x ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ! ꜰᴇᴍ! ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

ꜱᴏɴɢ: ʟᴀɴᴀ ᴅᴇʟ ʀᴇʏ- ᴄɪɴɴᴀᴍᴏɴ ɢɪʀʟ

Tw: Teenage love, mentions of passed bullying, weapon mentioned (spear), mamas just want what’s best for their kids, Tonowari being a loving father, Titanic reference, confession, kissing.

Author’s note: I thought of spicing things up a bit, they will be more conflict later but not too hard because I am rooting for Neteyam and Y/n. Also comment some ideas for the next part, idk how long this series will turn out, but I'd like to see what you guys want to see next. I hope I’m not moving too fast, I just really love where this is going. I also forgot to add the masterlist on the other fics, I’ll be sure to add the link.

P.s. I apologies for late tagging people on my taglist, its my first time doing a taglist and I go back to my other posts and check the comments to see if anyone else would want to be tag. Also for some reason some of the people I tag won’t pop up, sorry :(

Masterlist

Neytiri knew something, she knew that her eldest son had began to catch feelings for someone. The thing is she had no idea who her son was falling head over heels for. She wanted to know who it was and find out fast because the curiosity would consume her, if he ended up lying to her, she would not be happy than she already isn’t. Neytiri was still mad that she had to leave her home, it still irked her that her family will now have to live differently then what they were used to in the forest.

She wanted to keep a close eye on him but she would be invading his privacy, her mate was already hard on their kids, she didn’t want to be that kind of mother, but if it was for the sake of her children, so be it. Neytiri will give Neteyam some space, allowing him to tell her when he is ready.

Even after that talk with her mate, Ronal was still worried, she feared that her child may be taken away from her from an unworthy mate. She wanted her child to be happy but with the right person. It was hard enough that y/n could not mate before eywa light rest of the people due to her being different. Ronal did not like to call her child a human, humans were demons that destroy beautiful things for their own benefit.

Y/n was strong, yes she may not be a na’vi but she is a strong girl who deserves to be a Tsahik in the future, but she knew that the responsibility will lay on Tsireya due to being the oldest. She hopes in finding out who this person was sooner rather than later, before it is to late. Every time Ronal looks at Y/n, she sees her as a baby she once held for the first time, her small body covered in red, her baby. Ronal would do anything in her power to keep her baby happy.

You had finished getting ready for the day, instead of going for swim, you decided to go practice with your spear. You wore a top that was made of rope, seaweed and some pearls that hanged. For the bottom you wore a small skirt around your hips made out of light and dark net, you tide a cloth under you to cover your intimate parts. You tied your hair up to keep it out of the way, when you were using your weapon.

When done you left to the beach, the day had been going smoothly. Some kinds were running around playing in the water, the fishermen had come back from the ocean with fish, everything was normal. You stopped in a small spot that was bit farther away from the beach, it was like a training ground of yours and your father’s. You both would come here to practice on how you could use a spear. On your thirteenth birthday he gifted you the spear he made for you. You loved it very much, you didn’t allow anyone to touch, the people who could touch it was Tsireya, your mother and father. You didn’t trust your brother with your spear, he’d probably break it or something.

You were throwing your spear as hard as you could, you wanted to go farther than you already were. Your father has taught you how to use a spear from a young age, due to it you had got some muscle, you wish you were more muscular like him. Also not to mention what you can do with a blade, when your mother found out that your father gave you a blade at a small age, she nearly popped a blood vessel. Ronal was very protective of you, she feared that anything could harm you due to not being a na’vi. Tonowari had a talk with her about you learning how to fight and such, he knew that one day they will not always be their to protect you, he wanted you to be a warrior and to fend for yourself when they were no longer around.

After what felt like a while, you managed to throw the spear farther away hitting a palm tree near by. You began jumping of joy, you finally manage to do it. “Good shot” you stopped to turn, seeing the oldest forest boy. You felt your face feel a bit warm. “Oh, thank you, I didn’t know you were here” you said as you walked over to the palm tree to get your spear. Neteyam walked closer, just incase you need help with pulling out your spear.

You got a good grip on your spear and pulled hard enough, taking the spear out the palm tree. Neteyam watched as his mouth dropped, you were strong, of course you were, you’re the daughter of the Olo'eyktan. You smiled at him seeing his face. “What?” you giggled which made him change his face real quick. “Oh! Nothing, you’re just... really strong” he said shyly looking away as he rubbed the back of his neck. You smiled at him “well, you can thank my father for that” you said walking back to your spot having him follow. “Would you like to try?” you asked making him nod, no questions asked.

You had been showing Neteyam how hold the spear properly, you didn’t mind having to position his arms the right way, you loved being close to him. Neteyam was trying to do what he was told but he was distracted by you, how close you were. When you’d instruct him how to properly hold it and positioned him, he felt butterflies in his stomach, he also couldn’t help but look at you, you were just so beautiful. “You ready?” You asked as he then snapped out of his trance and nodded. “Okay, now throw it as fast as you can” he did as he was told. The spear landed on the sand, a couple feet away from the palm tree.

“Nice shot, soon you’ll be able to master a spear, you’ll be a...pro?” you said a bit confused, trying to use the word he used the other day. Neteyam chuckled seeing that were tying to use the word. “I’m not as good as you” he mentioned making you smile at up at him. You got a good look at his features again, you loved seeing him, you wouldn’t mind staring into his eyes for the rest of your life.

You then walked over to were your spear was breaking the trance you had on him. “Have you gone to your lessons today?” you asked retrieving your spear. Neteyam shook his head “no, not yet, shall we go?” he asked as you nodded, walking over back to him and leaving together to where the rest of the teens were.

As you both walked towards the small group, you heard a deep voice call out to you. “Y/n” you turned to see who it was, it was your father. “Coming!” You shouted back, turning to look at Neteyam “you go, I’ll catch up.” You said towards the tall na’vi in which he nodded and left towards the group, you walked over to your father, spear in hand “yes father?” you said looking up at the gentle giant. “Come, lets go for a ride, we haven’t gone in a while” you nodded, following him.

You both approached to his skimswim, Tonowari got on first then he helped you hop on, you sat in front of him holding tightly onto your spear and held onto the handle of the saddle. Then you both took off, the ride was silent but you like having a moment like this with your father. He’s a scary looking giant but he was gentle at the same time, you’d referred to him as a gentle giant a couple times since you were smaller. The skimswim dived underwater, taking you both down with it. It made you smile, since that the creature felt playful today. Your father looked down at you smile, making his chest warm up seeing his child happy.

It reminded him when you were a child, the first time you were scared of the creature but you warmed up to it. Since then your father would take you on rides with his creature. When you went back up to the surface for a breath, you laughed “that was fun” you said petting the skimswim, making the creature wag its tale for being praised. Tonowari then asked “so, tell me, what are your thoughts on the Sullys?” he asked as you looked up at him. “They seem very nice, well, Neytiri is a bit scary like mother... don’t tell here I said that!” you playful warned your father making laughing at you. “I won’t” he said. “But, Neteyam, he is really nice to me, well all the sully kids are nice to me including Jake, but he is the sweetest.”

You said feeling your face heat up, your father noticed this, he knew that look very well. He had that same look when he began to catch feelings for his now Mate Ronal. He hummed then talked “y/n? If that boy makes you happy, don’t let him go” he said catching you off guard. “Hm? what do you mean?” you asked a bit confused. “I know that look, you have the same look when someone is interested in another, I was young once too.” Now you understood, he was referring to your feelings towards Neteyam.

“You approve of him?” You asked curiously, he smiled down at you “just a bit, he still has to prove himself though, so far he is doing a great job” he said, this made you happy, seeing that your father seems to be approving of Neteyam. “Thank you father” you said smiling at him, he pulled you into a hug, in which you hugged him back gladly.

Neteyam was wondering where you were, the lesson was over, he was worried that you had got into trouble. Then he saw you with your father on his Skimswim approaching, he saw that you father told you something before you got off and swam towards the group, then he saw your father take off. “We were wondering where you were” your brother said as you finally reached them. “I was with father that’s all” you said.

“Well, the lesson of today is over, so everyone is just going to do whatever” Lo’kak chimed in, giving his brother a look, making Neteyam glare at him. “That’s alright, you guys have a great teacher” you said refuring to your sister. “What about me Y/n?” Ao’nung asked giving you a look, in which you pretended to think for a moment “you’re alright” you said making the group laugh, in which your brother let out a dramatic gasp. “My own sister thinks I am alright? How outrages” he said chuckling.

Everyone swam back to shore, going their separate ways. Only leaving you and Neteyam, it was silent until you spoke “so, do you want to do anything?” You asked looking up at him. You noticed how he had a little smile on his lips “I mean, I did promise you a ride on my banshee” you got excited now “shall we do that?!” You asked, and he responded “if that’s what you want, then yes, lets do it” he said as he took your hand, now taking you were his banshee was.

When you got to where is beast was, you were nervous, you had never seen such a beast. “Don’t look at him in the eyes” Neteyam warmed you, in which you looked away from the beasts face, not looking at its wings. They reminded you of a skimswim but instead of being in the water, they were from the sky. Neteyam got close to his beast, petting him and calming him down. “Want to pet him?” he asked as you nodded, walking closer towards him, he took your small hand and placed it on the beasts head. You softly pet him, feeling him purr under your touch. “Wow” you said fascinated by the beast. “Cool right?” Neteyam asked as you nodded while still petting the beast.

Neteyam got on his banshee and latched into him using his queue, then he turned to you and helped you up onto the banshee. He placed you in front of him and guided your hands to hold into the settle. “Ready?” he asked as you turned to look up at him “I was born ready” you said, Neteyam then gave the cue to his banshee, then the beast took off onto the sky.

You held tightly onto the handle and closed your eyes, afraid that you may end up falling. Neteyam took a note of this, then he wrapped his free arm around your waist and help you tightly close to him. You felt your face heat up at the feeling of his arm. After a couple minutes, you opened your eyes and looked around. Seeing how high you are in the sky, you felt fascinated seeing how close you were towards the clouds and near the blue sky.

When you looked down, you saw how small the village looked smaller, the air felt good going through your hair, it felt as good as when you go swimming. You slowly let go of the handle then stock your arms out on both sides, wanting to feel more of the wind. Neteyam was confused at first but he saw how relaxed you were, he still held onto your waist keeping you safe while his other one held onto the banshee.

You didn’t even notice the time, it was going to be dark soon, the sun was setting. You had landed on a small mountain near the village, seeing the sun set. It was beautiful, even better with the person you were with. “I had fun today” you said looking at Neteyam who had a smile on his face. “I am glad” he said looking down at your small face, he just loved looking at you, he could just stare at you all day, forever if he could. He had a feeling that he needed to say, if he didn’t say it he’ll probably regret it later.

“Y/n, I have been meaning to tell you something” Neteyam said shyly, now your face turned into one of curiosity. “What is Neteyam?” you asked as you felt his lard hands taking yours into his. “For the last few days, I’ve been having feelings, feelings I’ve never felt before, ever.” He took a deep breath, he felt like a fish out of water now, getting nervous. “Whenever I look at you, I feel like, I am at home” he said, his words made your face feel hot. “I see you y/n” he finally said it, he felt the weight on his shoulders fade, but he felt like his stomach drop, fearing rejection by the one who he wishes is his mate.

Your face felt even more heated, he saw you, Neteyam Sully saw you like you saw him. Still a bit in shock at his confession, you broke into a smile. Squeezing his hand lightly and spoke back to him. “And I see you Neteyam, the moment I first set my eyes on you, I see you” you said seeing his face turn into one of relief. “May I...kiss you?” He asked shyly looking down at your small hands. You smiled at his shyness, softly lifting his head “Of course, Ma Neteyam” You said softly locking eyes with his.

Neteyam leaned down, placing both his large hands on your small face. You came closer towards him, closing your eyes, feelings his warm lips touching your cold ones. This felt nice, this felt right, you placed your smaller hands on his large ones that held your face. You stayed like that for a bit before slowly pulling away from him and looked into his sun colored eyes. Then he whispered only for you to hear.

“Ma Y/n”

Taglist: @byunpum, @moony-artemis, @aonungs-tsahik, @rennyramen, @somewereinthegalaxi, @em-asian, @fanboyluvr, @mashiromochi, @eternallyvenus, @teenagemuffinlampcalzone, @ssophiebirkas, @fanficblogs,

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whatsthethinking · 2 years ago

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Alignment: part two

Lo’ak x Fem!Reader (platonic)

Eywa finally hears Lo’ak’s pleas for her to bring his brother back but instead of a brother, Lo’ak receives howling winds with lashing rain and a warrior… who eats people?

➴ Warning: Vague character description but it’s not reader specific. I can’t really think of anything but let me know.

➴ Word count: 2.7k

➴ Note: Okay so, I’m not going to name the reader. I did give a slight character description but I doubt I’ll mention what the reader looks like again after this chapter because it’s not really important. Let me know what you think of this chapter (I think it’s ass but now the readers here I can get into it). Feel free to leave any suggestions.

[one] [three]

It had been a few days since Lo’ak experienced his memory with Neteyam. He had constantly been thinking about whether he should tell anyone what had changed. Who would believe him? Memories don’t just change. They don’t usually offer comfort and support. Well they do, but not like this. They don’t give hope and promises for the future. He was confused. Beyond confused, actually.

“Lo’ak, can you pass me the knife?”

Jake mumbled in his son's direction but he didn’t get a response.

“Lo’ak.”

He tried again. Jake raised his head to look at his son, only to see him looking into the distance with a vacant look.

“Sorry, what?”

“I asked you for the knife,” Jake repeated.

“Right, sorry, dad.”

Lo’ak slowly passed his father the knife and then diverted his eyes to the entryway of the marui. Jake sighed and completely stopped chopping the fruit in front of him. Jake and Neytiri had noticed a change in his behaviour, but weren't sure how to confront him. It was clear that something was on his mind. Watching the sky, watching the ocean, as if he was waiting for something to happen. They both knew one person Lo’ak could trust wholeheartedly who would be able to get him to open up about what was on his mind.

“Why don’t you two go out for a walk,” Jake stated clearly to his children but mainly to Kiri.

A few seconds passed before Kiri got the hint and shot to her feet, dragging Lo’ak up with her.

“Perfect idea, dad. Come on Lo’ak. Let’s walk.”

“I don’t want to-.”

“Come on, brother.”

Kiri tugged on Lo’ak’s arm, bringing him to the entryway where they met Neytiri and Tuk, who had spent the morning together on the beach. Tuk was bouncing on the spot holding a basket with wrapped fish and some fruit. Neytiri’s face was graced with a fond smile at the sight of her children.

“Where are you two going in such a rush?” Neytiri questioned. “It’s almost time for lunch.”

“I caught it! This one!” Tuk exclaimed, pointing to a small package at the top of the pile.

“That’s wonderful Tuk,” Kiri smiled down at her baby sister before turning to her mother. “We were just going for a quick walk; we’ll be back before you know it.”

Neytiri looked past her children and to her mate, Jake nodded and gave a thumbs-up. She smiled and stepped aside.

“Be quick. I don’t want your food to get cold.”

Kiri nodded and grabbed Lo’ak’s elbow. She continued to drag him along until they reached the beach.

“Kiri, I don’t want to walk.”

“Sh.”

“Kiri, please.”

“Come.”

Kiri walked over to a less populated part of the beach, where the beach ended and the tranquil forest began. Kiri sat down, getting comfortable before patting a patch of grass next to her.

“Sit.”

Lo’ak sighed but sat down beside his sister, dragging his knees up to his chest and resting his chin on top.

“So Lo’ak, what’s going on?”

“Nothing.”

“Don’t lie to me.”

“I’m not lying. I just… Nothing’s going on.”

“Lo’ak, please talk to me.”

Kiri rested her hand on Lo’ak’s head and slowly ran it down to his shoulder. She could feel how tense he was. Kiri was more than aware of how deeply she felt about everything, but with Lo’ak, everything was different. Since Neteyam’s passing, Kiri had become very observant regarding her brother's emotions. As far as she was concerned, he was her other half, her twin. They are always there for one another. ‘Four-finger freaks’ have to stick together.

Lo’ak sighed and rested his forehead on his knees, shielding his face as Kirk put her hand back on his head.

“You wouldn’t believe me. “ Lo’ak’s voice came out muffled, but Kirk still heard him.

“I wouldn’t believe you?” Kiri questioned with humour in her voice. “You could tell me that the sky is green, and I would believe you.”

Lo’ak’s head turned to the side, allowing Kiri to see the frown on his lips and his eyebrows slightly furrowed.

“You’re too smart to believe anything like that.”

Kiri paused and nodded.

“You’re right. I am too smart. And I’m smart enough to know that something happened to you. I don’t know what, but I know that whatever it is, maybe I can help?”

Kiri turned her body towards Lo’ak and crossed her legs. Then she waited. She watched as the thoughts crossed his face, the way his eyebrows slightly twitched and the way his ears drooped.

“It’s kind of crazy, and I find it hard to believe myself.” Lo’ak started, Kiri was all ears.

“You know when I went to the spirit tree the other day? I had a memory with Neteyam and-“

Lo’ak paused and sighed deeply before turning his body towards his sister, crossing his legs.

“It was strange. Different. He spoke to me. He was older, he told me-“

Lo’ak stopped to collect his thoughts; saying it out loud made him question what had happened.

“He told me… It’s crazy. It doesn’t make sense. Maybe I imagined it. Maybe I’m desperate to hear something? Feeling something? I don’t know.”

“What did he say?”

There was a beat of silence between the two; Lo’ak fiddled with his fingers in his lap.

“He said that he would see me soon,” Lo’ak mumbled. “But that’s insane.”

Kiri had a slightly confused look, which made Lo’ak regret saying anything.

“I believe you.”

Kiri paused and then took her brother's hands into hers. Lo’ak sighed. It felt like a weight had been lifted, only slightly, but it felt like it was enough for him to feel like he could breathe.

“Thanks Kiri.” Lo’ak smiled

“I’m telling dad.”

Lo’ak’s smile dropped immediately.

“No”

It wasn’t until after dinner that Kiri managed to get her parents alone. Lo’ak had taken Tuk to see Tsireya. The older girl had volunteered to help teach Tuk to weave new clothes.

“Mum? Dad?”

Her parents paused their activities and turned to her.

“I spoke with Lo’ak.”

Neytiri ushered Jake to sit down, Kiri followed soon after.

“So, what did he say?” Jake questioned with a hint of concern in his voice.

“Before I tell you. You must understand that Lo’ak is really confused about what he told me, and I completely believe everything he said.”

Neytiri gently held Jake’s hand. She’s been so concerned for her son. Lo’ak hadn’t been himself since they lost Neteyam. His personality had changed; he was no longer the rowdy, outgoing boy she was used to. He would rarely find himself in trouble. He was completely obedient, finishing all his chores without complaint. Sometimes he would slip into his old self, but for the most part, he was different. Neytiri hated it. It saddened her greatly.

“Lo’ak told me that he saw Neteyam while at the spirit tree. He said that he was older, physically. Maybe even mentally, from what I gathered. He was reassuring Lo’ak, comforting him. His soul is fully aware of his passing and how he died. He told Lo’ak that they would be seeing each other soon. I know the last part sounds like a warning of some kind but, I don't think it is. I thought that it could mean that Lo’ak may be dying but, he assured me that that wasn't the feeling he got... Neteyam. Neteyam’s soul seemed hopeful.”

Kiri watched her parents' faces for their reactions. Jake’s face was set in a deep frown; he appeared to be taking in all the information, slowly mulling over each detail. Neytiri, on the other hand, had a look of pure disbelief, her eyes starting to well up.

“No… No.” Neytiri started shaking her head. “No.”

“It’s true, mum, I believe him.”

“It is not. I refuse it.”

“Mum-”

“No Kiri. This is not true.” Neytiri shot to her feet, one hand placed on her chest.

“Neytiri.” Jake slowly stood up. “Maybe we should listen to what-”

“No!” Neytiri exclaimed. “Ma Jake! You can not feed into this!”

“I’m not. I promise you I’m not. But what if this is the truth? We’ve accepted that Kiri has a connection to Eywa, why can’t Lo’ak? This could be some sort of sign.”

Jake wasn’t exactly sure why he was suddenly accepting what Kiri was telling them but, deep down, he knew he couldn't just assume this was false. He trusted his children.

“Because he’s not saying the same things as Kiri. He’s talking about our son coming back from the dead. It’s impossible!”

“Lo’ak can be many things but, he is an honest boy. We both know that Lo’ak wouldn’t lie, especially about this.”

Jake sighed, glancing at Kiri, who was still seated.

“Remember when we saw him? After the funeral? He was older. He didn’t know that he had died but, he appeared in his most recent body. This might be a similar situation. If what they’re saying is true, this could be an opportunity to have our son back. Our Neteyam. The chance to right the wrongs. To-”

Jake stopped speaking as his voice cracked and his eyes began to well up with tears. The idea that he could get to be with his eldest son again, to hug him. Hold him close. Tell him how much he means to him. Apologise for being a terrible father, and ask for his forgiveness. The thought of a second chance drew him in completely.

Neytiri stood before her mate and daughter, slightly shaking her head, refusing to believe what she was hearing. She wanted to believe it, she did. She knew what Kiri was saying must have some truth to it. Kiri has the purest soul with the deepest connection to Eywa any tsahìk could only dream of and she does not speak carelessly. If Kiri believes Lo’ak, then Neytiri will believe him too.

“Okay… Okay,” Neytiri sighed, facing Neteyam’s corner, wiping her face. “Tomorrow. We will ask Ronal. She will know.”

The next day did not go as planned. The sound of harsh winds and crashing waves awoke the village. Tonowari was barking orders to anyone he could, telling them to gather anything that couldn’t be tied down. A storm was coming. A great one. The hunters who go beyond the reef hadn’t seen it coming. Ronal commented to her mate that it was a sign, possibly a warning. But she wasn’t certain, she couldn’t make sense of it.

Just as the villagers were coming to the end of their scrambling, the sky above them went dark, and the rain began. It came down hard and unforgiving. Nothing about this rain was calm and tranquil. It was vicious. It was hectic, if you were to step out into it, you may find yourself lost.

Lo’ak leaned against the marui entrance watching the rain's brutal attack. After he and his mother had gone to see Ronal, he planned to try and convince his parents to join him in visiting the spirit tree. Maybe Neteyam’s soul would give them a glimmer of hope too.

“When will it stop raining?” Tuk questioned, rubbing her eye “it’s been hours.”

“I don’t know. Maybe ask Kiri. She can ask her best friend Eywa to do us all a favour” Lo’ak replied, a smirk appearing as he heard Kiri huff.

“Haha, hilarious,” she rolled her eyes and joined her siblings, peering at the rain beating down. “But it is strange, maybe something happened?”

The two older siblings had gotten bored of watching the rain ruin their day, they moved deeper into the marui helping their parents prepare the next meal. Tuk stayed by the entrance, watching as the rain began to ease.

“Look!” Tuk shrieked, pointing out into the distance. “Do you see, over there!”

Tuk’s yells caused her family to look in the direction she was pointing in. In the distance, they could all see a small dark mass approaching the village. Jake instinctively pulled Tuk away and behind him while Neytiri did the same to Kiri and Lo’ak.

“It’s an ikran.” Tuk continued as the mass got closer.

“How can you tell?” Kiri questioned, looking around her mother.

“It has wings, see!”

Tuk moved around Jake and pointed again. She was right, the mass moving toward the village did, in fact, have wings. But the wingspan of it indicated that it couldn’t be an ikran, it seemed too large. The speed it appeared to be going was also a hint that it might not be a normal ikran.

“It looks a bit too large to be an ikran Tuk,” Lo’ak mumbled

“Maybe it’s Toruk,” she argued, glancing up at her father.

“I haven’t seen Toruk in many years darling,” Jake said down to her before stepping out to get a closer look. “Stay here.”

Jake began to walk towards the central part of the village, maybe he could assist if anything happened. Lo’ak slipped out just after him, dodging Neytiri’s hands as she tried to stop him.

“I’m coming too, dad.”

Jake stopped and spun around, ready to tell his son to stay with the family. Just as he was about to open his mouth to tell Lo’ak to go back, a roar rang over the village, accompanied by a rush of cold air and a dark shadow. Shouts of the Metkayina warriors came shortly after as they rushed to get into formation just in case this creature attacked. Jake gave Lo’ak a stern look before continuing his walk, but obviously, his son didn’t pay it any mind as he followed his father closely.

Tonowari hastily approached the pair and immediately questioned if Jake had any idea what this flying creature was. Tuning out this conversation, Lo’ak watched as the large ‘ikran’ landed on the very edge of the island, quite far from the village. He wasn’t sure why, maybe curiosity, but he began to follow the warriors in that direction. On his way, he passed Tsireya, who tried to stop him, but he just brushed her off, telling her they could talk later.

By now, the rain had officially stopped.

The ikran definitely wasn’t an ikran. It was something larger, much larger. Its body appeared to be covered in black scales, with red ones peeking out underneath. Its wings were a mix of black and red too. Its eyes seemed to be a red and orange mix, alert, taking in everyone's movements. However, the more Lo’ak studied the strange beast, the more he noticed it possibly resembled a dragon from his father’s, Norm’s and Max’s human stories about brave warriors. Lo’ak couldn’t see the rider near the beast, he would’ve assumed it didn’t have a rider if it wasn’t for what looked like armour strapped to its chest.

One of the warriors stepped forward, the scaled ‘ikran’ snarled, showing off its rows of long sharp teeth.

“Stay ready.” One of the warriors voiced, getting a tighter grip on his spear. Lo’ak manoeuvred towards where the warriors were more sparse, which just happened to be the closest to the beast.

“Mawey Rìkxi, mawey. Be nice”, A voice broke through the silence as the beast raised its large wing revealing its rider. A rider no one had expected.

A rider from the Ash Islands. Some elders within the village and back in the forest had spoken of the islands. Claiming to have travelled there at a time when many of the people were rejecting Eywa, which had caused many divides throughout different clans.

It is said that the warriors of the Ash Islands are merciless and unforgiving. Your fate was sealed If you got on the wrong side of them. It seemed that no one ever survived a fight with the warriors, and they never left a body. Which led outsiders to speculate that the warriors would eat their rivals.

The Na’vi from the Ash Islands were different in appearance. They had ash blue/purple skin and amber eyes. Their tails were thin but muscular, and the tip on their tails narrowed to a point. They were known to be tall and strong, stronger than your average Na’vi. The Ash Na’vi wore neutral colours, mainly different shades of brown with minimal splashes of dark blues and reds. They usually kept their hair up and out of their face.

Lo’ak looked over the rider and noticed her hands. Hands just like him, four fingers.

The rider raised her hand to her forehead, lowly bringing it down, keeping eye contact with Lo’ak.

“Hello.”

“Hey.” Lo’ak choked before clearing his throat.

Note pt2:

Mawey - calm

Rìkxi - tremble, shake, shiver

Rìkxi is the name of the readers dragon, I based it off of Drogon from Game of Thrones because that’s the show I’m watching rn

Taglist: @eywas-heir @cvsmic-love @thehoneymushroomhealer @myvath @afro-hispwriter @jjkclub @babyymeme @lovedbychoi @dakotali @cleverzonkwombatsludge

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laineystein · 7 months ago

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If I may? You seem to have an incredibly rosy view of Israel and live comfortably there. And I am happy you do! I just also have seen Israelis on tumblr speak of the struggle with the rising cost of living.

This includes having to be self conscious about the price of brands to pick, and the rent of apts. (Which are pretty common things to deal with anywhere lately). I’ve also seen an Israeli blogger say that if you don’t have a background in engineering and tech, there’s not much of a future for you in Israel-or at least not one where you can live well.

On a personal level, I struggle to comprehend the idea of bomb shelters being a conscious part of every day life in so many parts of Israel. I don’t know how you guys do it, I really don’t.

I’ve been passive-aggressively criticized for having what some would deem a rosy view of life in general so I don’t know if I’m the best person to be giving you my feedback. What I can say confidently is that I have lived elsewhere and I will forever choose to live in Israel because it is the place I truly feel is home. Yes, things are expensive but they’re expensive where I lived in the diaspora as well. Homes here are not any more expensive than they were where I lived in the diaspora. Our economy is certainly curtailed to specific professions but so is every economy. Being an engineer and being in tech is also currently the most lucrative profession in the diaspora. I’m not saying that Israel doesn’t have its issues. It does and I reference them often. I’d probably talk about them more if I wasn't so used to a lot of it; I’m used to sirens and bomb shelters and tzahal and I don’t know how to explain that to someone who isn’t. It’s just always been apart of my life and it’s not going to change anytime soon so it is what it is. I also have no problem acknowledging that I grew up very privileged and still live a very privileged life so that may have something to do with my viewpoint. But here’s the thing - I just can’t live in a non-Jewish world. I can’t live my life comfortably in a non-Jewish world. And that’s not solely because of antisemitism. I keep kosher. I keep Shabbos. And nearly everyone I love (in the diaspora) is visibly Jewish. The men wear kippot and tzitzis. The women dress tznius and cover their hair. When you are this religiously observant it’s difficult to exist in a non-Jewish world. Our holidays are different and it’s not a default to have them off and not every company you work for will be fine with you taking them off - even if it’s illegal for them not to. In the US, you can’t make friends with coworkers because you can’t see them on the weekends or eat at their restaurants or in their homes. Sending your children to a Jewish school like the one I attended is like paying college tuition per child, per year; my parents paid over 100K every year sending me and my three brothers to school - the same school would be much more affordable in Israel. We’re nothing but pawns to the political system there - the right and the left both hate us. We are politically homeless and we’re too much of a minority for it to matter. So there’s a million reasons *not* to live in the diaspora as a Jew. For me, there is also a million reasons to live in Israel. The proximity to our holy sites. The weather. The fact that we have beaches and deserts and mountains and forests and rain and snow and sunshine. The diet and the healthier lifestyle. The joy. There’s so much joy here and I feel sorry for anyone that disagrees. I can be openly Jewish here. My Jewishness is not an inconvenience here. I do not have to apologize for it or hide it. And yes, I will forever feel safer here than I ever have in the US. Is Israel also an absolute dumpster fire sometimes? Of course it is. I’m not saying it’s for everyone. Living here will be a huge shock for many Jews. But for some of us, it makes sense and the pros will forever outweigh the cons.

#lainey things #ask things #israel things #my heart my home

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mouircedes · 2 months ago

Text

𝙳𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚐𝚎𝚝 ♥︎͏͏ 📝… 𝚝𝚘 𝚔𝚒𝚜𝚜 𝚖𝚎 🎙️

it was around 6pm when jude packed his bag and left the real madrid stadium.

he was furious, his mind venturing to uncharted places like the lockers room where all his teammates yelled at each other for doing badly or the field where bayern scored their third goal. that day, his club performed worse than ever, he was sweating like crazy and his hands were shaking in anger. he took a long and heavy breath before walking towards his car. he thought..

did you ever happen to walk somewhere, maybe a soft forest? a very bright parking lot? a sparkly beach? or did it ever happen to pick up stones? round and jagged? flat as cookies..like those heart shaped ones? did you keep them? maybe in your pockets or under the bed?

he couldn’t help but smile at those childish thoughts. his best friend was the only person who could calm him down in situations like these. Jude and the boy had been best friends since the age of 8, they would never leave each other or go out without calling or asking their mothers, “can my best friend come with us?!”

he always collected stones with his very good friend, it was their secret thing. Jude would always keep one of the stones under his bed before making one small wish and blowing the stone. another secret of Jude is that he would always wish the same thing.

that him and his lovely best friend would last forever.

and then he appeared. his very good friend, jamal musiala.

musiala appeared behind him to scare him by grabbing jude’s shoulder and yelling into his ear, “loser,” just to get a jump from Jude. Jude jumped and screamed lowly, smacking musiala.

j: “wow, so funny. wanker.”

m: “you are trying to sound serious so bad, you genuinely look stupid right now.”

j: “i just lost against bayern, asshole! how am i supposed to be all happy right now? have you lost it?”

m: “it’s not even that big of a deal. come with me.”

and with that, musiala grabbed judes hand and took him with him. they ran for a whole hour, they passed past small flower shops, small cozy cafes, libraries, and antique shops. and while doing so, they were laughing and trying their hardest to be invisible. they didn’t want to be seen since the both of them were football stars with many fan girls and boys.

they ran more and more, faster and faster, not stopping until Jude’s anger had completely disappeared. the tension that had gripped him was now a distant memory, replaced by a profound sense of contentment as he found security and peace in the company of his one and only lovely friend, musiala. As they set foot on the beach, the warm, reddish glow of the setting sun enveloped them, bellingham’s dark skin glowing along with his dark eyes which musiala was found drowning into them.

from musiala’s perspective, he saw Jude as his very good friend too. He cherished their friendship and valued Jude’s companionship. what didn’t he know was that Jude was looking down at him, a soft smile playing on his lips as the sunlight gently kissed musiala’s beautiful face, showing off his soft features. in jude’s eyes, musiala was the most beautiful boy in the world. his smooth skin was glowing just like his full lips and white teeth. he had the prettiest best friend ever.

🌺 ⃨۪̃۟⬤ ̯͡ ̵̼͓̥͒̾͘ 𒈔ା⚰️̼̻♥︎̼̻♥︎̼̻ 🍱🫐 ཻུ۪۪͎ ▞ြ░‧𝄢۫ 🌐

j: “hey, i think we need to talk.”

m: “what’s wrong, mate? all good?”

j: “no, nothing is good. i have been a complete mess.”

j: “i think i’m falling in love with you, and the bad thing is that I love you too much. I’m so full of love for you.”

m: “Jude? Stop playing with me. This is not funny.”

j: “i’m not joking. I have been thinking of us a lot lately. My mind hasn’t shut up about you since high school. I didn’t know that I liked you like that till now.. And its so..”

m: “jude..-”

j: “no. you are not understanding me musiala.”

m: “I’m not understanding you because you are giving me nothing to understand.”

j: “i need you. i need you everywhere. i’m so sorry, I..i know you deserve more respect than this but i just won’t stop thinking of it.. your arms and legs wrapped around my waist, your lips so eager and open for mine, for my kisses. i need you, i need too much of you. i want to travel with you and love you in every place we go. wander around places together both public and private, watch your favorite movies with you for the 200th time, learn to love your every detail. i want to become a simple citizen just with you. if i cannot have you then i’ll be longing for you. you know..”

silence.

j: “I’m the type of guy who would miss a train or a plane or whatever to meet you for lunch. i’d drive millions of miles just to see you for ten minutes. i dream of you for me, for us. and let me tell you this..”

he was cut off.

m: “and what are you waiting for then?”

j: “what? what do you mean?”

m: “kiss me.”

this is my first time writing, don’t scream at me for my ass grammar okay😔

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chaoticbardlady99 · 5 months ago

Text

WIP Friday cause I missed Wednesday

Here is a short snippet from Floozy (Astarion x OC), Floozy is just the title more for the irony because like they both learn they are more than just sex

It��s basically a fake dating plot and the two stupids fall in love

Thanks for the tag @preciouslittlebhaalbae !!!

She’s rather adorable with her pouty lips and her eyebrows furrowed. Astarion hates to admit that he understands why she has so many regulars now. He had to bring quite a few people to Cazador in his little misguided vengeance plot.

Shit, he begins to panic, my smart mouth- Gods dammit.

“I- can we start over?”

Imogen looks at him incredulously.

“You basically called me worthless after you tried to kidnap me for you and Cazador to have your way wi-“

And the flip switches again.

“Now you need to shut the hell up,” Astarion snarls, “you don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Oh really? Then what happened? Enlighten me!”

He freezes- does she know he’s a spawn or does she think he’s something else entirely? Would she kill him if she knew?

She shakes her head, “At least take some fucking accountability for your decisions before you have the gall to ask me to ‘start over’.”

Astarion’s face twists in fury and he storms off back towards camp. He knows if he’s around her any longer then he has to be he’s going to kill her. It might be better to start working on the Cleric with the ridiculous name.

Shadowheart and Gale are around the fire and making food by the time Astarion gets back- he says his appetite is ruined and goes to the forest to hunt.

It goes miserably- he barely catches the wild boar he just consumed, but it still isn’t enough. He still feels weak and tired.

So he attempts to catch another Wild Boar. This one is craftier than the last- racing across different terrains and using Astarion’s lack of reaction time against him. He finally thinks he may be closing in on the Boar when it goes running out on an arch of rocks, but Astarion slips on the seafoam coating it and goes crashing face forward into the water near the beach Imogen had been cleaning her bedrolls with. He hears her shriek in surprise as his body hits the water, but Astarion is panicking for another reason entirely- he doesn’t know how to fucking swim.

You do not need to breathe- calm down! Stop thrashing!

Except he refuses to listen to his brain- his body is too invested in trying to survive like it’s a silly, weak mortal than a Vampire Spawn.

A sense of calm washes over him and Astarion’s tunnel vision begins to go away- he is pulled up out of the water by underneath his arms and pulled to the shore. He is still in shock- unable to say anything or even ask who this person is.

Of course it’s Imogen and she is laughing really really hard.

“I- I’m so sorry-” she snorts, “are- are you okay?”

“Oh yes, Dear, I am just peachy,” he says with a scoff, taking off his doublet and shaking it dry, “fucking beasts.”

“Ah- you were hunting that boar? I was wondering why it was so overtly cheerful and screaming ‘I WON’ as it went running away,” she teases in spite of herself, “I thought vampires were supposed to be Apex predators.”

“Yes- well,” he says sharply, “not all of us get the luxury to hunt or have a proper fucking meal for centuries on end so forgive me if I lack a skill I was never allowed to develop in the first place!”

There is complete silence and Astarion isn’t necessarily thrilled with himself for admitting his weakness and flaws to her so openly. It’s embarrassing how powerless Astarion is in regards to his situation and how he has to beg for the scraps of dead, rotting rats just to relieve some of the pain in his stomach. He is so hungry- he just wanted a second boar.

“Are you capable of stopping yourself? Before you… kill someone?”

The question is odd and confusing- Astarion turns around and looks at Imogen with a lifted eyebrow.

“While drinking their blood- I mean.”

“I wouldn’t know,” he says plainly, “I have never had the chance.”

Imogen is thinking- that much he can tell- what about is the biggest concern to Astarion right now.

“What?”

She studies his face for a moment longer, her lips screwed to the side in thought and one cheek jutted out before she finally answers.

“You can drink from me- if you want,” she says slowly, “I think Gale has a scroll of Revivify so if you do… kill me- the deal is you steal it, resurrect me, and we don’t tell a soul what happened.”

Astarion is really confused now.

“I thought you hated me?”

“I don’t hate you, I am merely very angry with you,” she says thoughtfully, “but I think watching you take an impromptu bath helped immensely.”

He looks at her with unamused eyes and she just giggles at him- walking over with a dry rag from her cleaning station and handing it to him to dry his hair off. He accepts it begrudgingly, but continues to think on her offer.

Astarion really really does not want to be at someone else’s mercy, but a consistent food resource is a must if he plans on surviving this journey and eventually killing Cazador. It would also help to keep his vampirism a secret a bit longer if only one other person in camp knows.

However, he isn’t allowed to drink from thinking creatures- Cazador forbids it, but what Cazador doesn’t know won’t hurt him or Astarion and it’s not like Cazador is present in his head now. He feels free of him- it would be safe to indulge.

Right?

And Gods- he is fucking starving and desperate. It must be obvious enough for her to offer and after 200 years of pure shit, he definitely deserves to drink the blood of a beautiful woman.

“I- I would greatly appreciate it if you would be willing to let me feed from you,” he says sheepishly, “I just need a little bit and I won’t hurt you- I swear.”

“I know- I believe you,” she flashes him her signature smile.

So this is how someone gets as many regulars who talk as highly about them as she does. Imogen is open and willing to give someone the benefit of the doubt. Some of her regulars were not good people, but they were good to her. It was like she was a home for all the sinners- a saint amongst humanoid-kind. Astarion would be more annoyed if he wasn’t at her mercy right now.

Astarion is trying to calm his excitement as they go walking further down the beach to a much more secluded spot behind a rock- neither one of them wants to attract the attention of a well meaning stranger who thinks they are saving the beautiful damsel.

Imogen lays down and brushes her hair to the side- putting both of her arms awkwardly to the side. She is as stiff as a corpse and Astarion can’t help but laugh.

“Not a normal part of your services, I take it?”

“Ha!” she snorts, “no, but thanks for the idea. I’m going to charge a small fortune for this from now on!”

“Shit.”

Imogen throws her head back in laughter. She has a good sense of humor or at least he hopes it’s humor- he doesn’t have a single coin to his name.

They both look at each other- both nervous, him to kill her and be staked by their other two companions and her being drained dry and left to rot out in the sun. Both of them are putting quite a lot of trust into each other right now.

“Uh, count of three?” She says awkwardly.

“What?”

“Bite on the count of thre-“

Astarion just goes for it and she gasps underneath him- her hands clutching at his shoulders and her fingers digging into them.

She tastes incredible, like a nice vintage, and her racing heartbeat just spurs his instincts on. There is even the slightest hint of… arousal? Astarion smiles in spite of himself.

Got you.

If this feels good for her too, then maybe he’s the one who should be charging.

The warmth of her life force courses through his body and he can feel the slightest phantom heartbeat in his chest from finally having a proper meal.

Astarion feels incredible- his head has never been clear and his persistent agitation with the universe has lifted.

He finally feels happy.

“As-Astarion-“ Imogen’s voice is weak, but the predator in him doesn’t care, “I… I don’t feel…”

He barely manages to pull himself away and she is blinking hazily through the blood loss. Astarion can’t help but feel slightly alarmed- he didn’t think about draining her too much and then having to carry her back to camp in this state.

“Just give me… minute,” she yawns, “I know lesser… restor….”

“You won’t be able to cast it if you fall asleep,” he says, “do you have a healing potion or something?”

“Huh- that would have been a good idea,” she says lazily, “remember that for next time.”

Astarion laughs, positively giddy that there will be a “next time”, and he doesn’t know why, but his face falls into the crook of her neck- lapping absentmindedly at the wound. A whine of pleasure leaves her throat and Astarion smirks- his hand trailing down her body and going to her navel. She grabs his hand, jolting him from his thoughts.

“Astarion,” she says softly, “I was joking earlier- please don’t feel like you owe me something.

“A health potion would be nice though.”

Astarion removes his face from her neck and looks at her with shock- unfortunately he isn’t given much time to collect his thoughts.

“Oh holy shit.”

No pressure tag: @bg3-stole-my-soul @bg-brainrot @amica-aenigmata-naboo

#baldurs gate 3 #astarion #baldurs gate astarion #astarion x tav #bg3 #bg3 spoilers #astarion romance #karlach #astarion ancunin #astarion x f! tav #astarion x oc #Astarion x reader #you can get upset with me for the x reader tag but I come from the generation where people used hashtags to advertise #so be pissy if you want but idc.#Astarion x f! oc

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v-anrouge · 8 months ago

Note

Answer some or all, I want to know more about you 👀 that wasn’t the right emoji but oh well I’m using voice to text

Do you have freckles?

Do you drink tea or coffee? How do you take it?

What was the last song you listened to?

Do you sleep on your back, stomach or side?

Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?

Do you prefer drawing or writing?

What’s your ideal number of blankets to sleep with?

What’s your favorite band/artist?

When is your birthday?

How tall are you?

What color are your eyes?

Who are five (or more) people you want to hug right now?

Fears?

What’s your favorite color?

What’s your favorite season?

Want any tattoos? What of?

Want any piercings? Where?

Who is the last person you texted?

Do you have a best friend? How long have you been friends?

What/who do you miss?

How was your day today?

How much sleep did you get last night?

Do you believe in aliens?

When was the last time you cried? Why?

What’s your favorite decade?

What are some seemingly childish things you like?

What’s your favorite book? Or just one you’ve read a few times?

How are you, really?

Does it take you a long time to make decisions?

What are you looking forward to in the near future?

What are you looking forward to in the distant future?

If you could go anywhere right now, where would you go?

Do you sleep with your door open or closed?

What’s your favorite flower?

Do you currently have a squish?

Do you like your middle name?

Do you prefer dogs or cats?

Do you have any phobias?

Do you stay up late?

Do you like the beach? Do you prefer it sunny or cloudy?

What’s your favorite cartoon?

Tag 5 of your favorite blogs

Do you have siblings? How many?

Who was the last person you said “I love you” to?

Is there anyone you would die for?

What do you need when you’re sad?

Have you memorized your phone number?

Who’s someone you can trust with your life?

What does your last text say?

Wild Card. Any question, ask away.

1- actually yeah but theyre super super super light so u can barely see them

2- coffee, i hate tea. i drink it with milk and sugar

3- more KDA

4- side, shrimping

5- yes:3 rook vil and my childhood plush

6- drawing

7- one, and it has to be thin

8- DONT DO THID TO ME I CANT DECIDE

9- june 19

10- 5'3 💀

11- very dark brown

12- all my mooties

13- abandonment, forests, insects, worm like things, heaven, dogs

14- blue and purple

15- winter 100%

16- yes! maybe of a deer, not realistic tho

17- i want all my piercings back my mom made me take them off so now im only left w my bites and the cheek ones😔

18- my mother

19- my lesbian irl :3 like two years?

20- peace

21- okay-ish

22- like 4 or 5?

23- i don't care for them

24- like 1 hour ago, obey me 💀

25- i don't think there are decades to be celebrated humans are evil in all of them

26- cute things, children movies and cartoons, they make me happy

27- i haven't read in LONG because books in brazil are way more expensive than i can afford

28- okay i think

29- yes😭

30- getting a job that i actually like

31- moving with my irl

32- to my irl's house :3

33- locked shut

34- oleanders!

35- nope

36- HATE IT

37- CATSSS

38- insects, worm like things..i think that's it?

39- yeah💀

40- no, but also yes, i dislike beaches because in there's always those fucking sand dollars , i prefer it sunny because the water is cold

41- GUMBALL!!!

42- I CANT I DON'T WANT TO MAKE ANYONE SAD FOR NOT BEING HERE

43- two older brothers

44- my irl

45- my irl...

46- distract myself and talk to people i like (usually my irl)

47- no i havent 😭

48- my irl <3

49- it's a fight between me and my mom id rather not, sorry

50- I have absolutely no idea what to ask tbh😭 uhmm i guess id like to ask why so many ppl like me

#✎ ⇣‧₊˚ 【asks #ৎ୭ ⇣‧₊˚ 【stinks #♡ᭂ ⇣‧₊˚ 【 caspian

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insertsickusername13 · 2 years ago

Note

as a prompt: a richjake roadtrip after senior year

this took me so long.who knew road trips were so hard to write? wtf. like it's such a classic it should've been easy, but i started this weeks ago and only managed to finish it now bc i just refused to close the tab until i finished. and on that note i've been writing for the past hour and my brain has lost all ability to process the english language so i didn't edit it. if there's grammar mistakes or certain sentences are total nonsense then i'm very very sorry

uh, warnings? mentions of sex. mentions of drugs and alcohol.

word count: 5,437 (yes, it's longer than I wanted. its a roadtrip. how am i supposed to write that in a thousand words?)

On the second day, Rich told Jake he liked him. They were up in Maine, planning on getting all of New England before heading west. Jake had the passenger seat pushed back as far as it could go, eyes closed and legs almost straightened. It was early—7? Maybe 8?

When Jake had insisted they go on a road trip together, Rich had imagined late mornings in hotel rooms and late nights in clubs. (He also imagined Jake realizing just how terrible this would be for his legs within the first three hours, but it was hour eight and he still seemed determined.) Instead, he got a rigid schedule and a pre-made playlist. No bars or underground concerts—just Mount Rushmore and Chicago and art museums. Aquariums where there were ones, beaches when they could.

They’d only been through Massachusetts and Connecticut by the time Rich gave in. They were alone for the first time in ages—and not in their house, not with the promise of going to school and seeing their friends the next day. They were practically in the middle-of-no-where-New-Hampshire and Rich could pull over, stand on the roof of the car, and scream, “I love Jake Dillinger!!” and the only person who would hear would be the object of his affections. The urge to confess flurried within and around the car like an unshakable snowstorm.

He didn’t mean to say it. In all honesty, it was a misinterpreted phrase, a result of Rich’s excessive talking as Jake hummed from the passenger seat, half-asleep.

“But Interstellar just had more,” he said, only half paying attention to the empty highway, “Like yeah, okay, Tenet was weird as fuck and probably had a cooler concept if I was smart enough to figure it the fuck out, but the main character’s name was fucking protagonist. Who becomes emotionally attached to a dude named protagonist? It lacked the depth Interstellar had. Plus, Interstellar felt attainable. Like fuck yeah, I wanna go to space.”

“Mhm.”

“I’d take you with me. Maybe Michael, but I’m not sure how ventilation works on a spacecraft and his weed might stink up the whole thing.”

“Probably.”

��You’d be a menace, you can barely handle gas station food, let alone space food. You’d have a heart attack at not being able to have your weekly caviar.”

“You’d just throw me out in space,” Jake mumbled, not even bothering to deny the caviar jab.

“Nah, I like you too much,” Rich teased, poking at Jake’s exposed stomach. He expected a squawk, at least for Jake to shove him away, but there was only silence. Rich took his eyes off the road for just a split second, interest piqued, only to be met with Jake’s wide, terrified expression.

He’d said it a million times before and never overthought it, but maybe there was something different about this time. Maybe it was because they were alone rather than surrounded by friends, maybe it was because now they’d planned a life together—college, in Boston, Jake at Harvard and Rich at Emerson, still roommates. Maybe it was accursed Maine and all its forests, or the way Rich emphasized like. Love was a common word between them, said every sleepless night since the fire, but like meant so much more. Like implied a hesitance only present where romance was seeping into every word.

“No, you don’t," Jake seethed.

Rich scoffed. A restless apprehension crept its way up his spine and settled in his fingertips, which tapped against the steering wheel.

“Pretty sure I do, buddy. You’re—”

“I’m your best friend and you don’t like me.”

Oh. Oh fuck. Jake meant like that. He knew, he—fuck. Rich had to consciously stop himself from accidentally sending the car tumbling into the forest.

“Okay,” Rich forced out, “Okay. I don’t like you.”

Jake’s sigh of relief was similar to a comet colliding with Rich’s home. He squeezed the steering wheel and kept his mouth clamped shut, terrified that one wrong move would send them spiraling off the edge of the Earth.

As it turned out, though, Jake didn’t mind Rich’s confession. He didn’t directly acknowledge It afterward, glad to pretend he was still blissfully unaware of every icy undercurrent running under their feet.

Rich thought an explicit rejection would hurt. He’d imagined how it would go a million times over, a passive version of self-destruction. He lay awake next to Jake’s sleeping body and thought of every word he’d say, how he’d say it, the way he’d look away with guilt. Rich had all his responses planned, all his apologies already written. He was prepared for an, ‘I’m so sorry, I just don’t think of you that way—’

He was not prepared for Jake’s arm slung over his shoulder, lips close to his ear, and that quiet, breathy laugh Jake only let slip out around Rich.

They were in some local museum meant to educate passing tourists about some half-abandoned small town Stephen King would write about. It was reasonably entertaining, mostly a distraction from the storm of heartbreak he was trying to disassemble in his chest. Just one night—he needed one night alone in a hotel room to sob out every sorrow, then he’d bounce back. Just one night.

If only Jake would stop trying to kill him. Rich was satisfied reading about boats or whales or something (he’d forgotten, too busy thinking about Jake’s fingers clutching Rich’s t-shirt to keep his balance) with Jake a good two feet away, examining a painting. But Rich’s beautiful demolitionist decided his next target was Rich. He appeared to the right of him and practically draped himself over him, impossibly energetic for being in a place that reeked of desolation and dust.

“Fuckin’ Maine and their lobsters,” Jake grumbled into Rich’s ear, resting his chin in the crook of his shoulder.

Every possible witty response died before Rich even had the chance to think them up. His brain was too muddled with Jake and Jake knowing and Jake being so close. Where there would usually be a confession on the tip of Rich’s tongue, unspoken but overwhelming, there was only the bitter aftertaste of hope.

“Yeah,” Rich stated, simple and short. Jake’s cane knocked against Rich’s knee. It wasn’t even on the ground anymore, having been replaced by Rich.

Jake made a small sound of confusion before nuzzling a bit closer and said, “Do we wanna drive to Vermont for lunch? Or are we staying here?”

“It’s like a four-hour drive.”

“So we’re staying here?”

“If you want.”

Jake shifted away slightly, just far enough that Rich began reteaching himself how to breathe.

“You’re all red,” Jake stated, soft and oblivious.

Okay, so no breathing. Rich writhed in Jake’s hold until he was free and standing three feet away, face even redder than before, an instinctive reaction to Jake’s intense, unwavering gaze. Picking through the flood of panic in his mind, Rich only barely managed to get out, “Sorry.”

“Why would you be s—oh. No, that’s—I didn’t mean to—like, we’re—”

Rich was going to cry. In front of the boy he was in love with, he was going to cry. Jake sounded so panicked and apologetic that Rich could almost feel it gathering like snowflakes in his hair, coating the floor in pure white dust.

“Jake, stop. It’s fine.”

“Are you su—”

“Let’s just go to lunch. I saw a diner on the way here.”

Jake nodded rapidly, almost desperately, as he stormed from the room—almost as if he could escape Rich’s feelings merely by leaving this goddamn museum behind.

He almost succeeded. It took an awkward lunch and two hours of driving on an empty highway, but eventually, Rich’s one-word answers slipped back into enthusiastic ramblings and Jake learned not to flinch away whenever Rich’s hand got too close.

Rich still cried when they got to the hotel. It was his turn to pay and, despite repeatedly telling Jake that he was going to save as much money as possible, he bought two separate rooms for them. Jake didn’t so much as blink. Still, the next night they were in a shared room with separate beds, far enough that if Rich reached out he’d be met with only empty air, but close enough he could still hear Jake’s breathing.

It wasn’t until Illinois that Rich was once again faced with the consequences of his stupid, unintentional confession. Once again in different hotel rooms, Jake had to knock on Rich’s door at 2 am to get his attention.

Rich was half asleep, his phone in his hand still open to Michael’s text messages. At first, he was convinced Jake was a figment of the SQUIP—the knocks would get louder until Rich was on the floor, rocking back and forth with his hands over his ears waiting for the noises to stop.

But then he heard, “Richie?” and his panic evaporated as if it was never there.

“What the fuck?” he said, answering the door with a fabricated scowl. At Jake’s nighttime smile, it melted into reluctant contentment.

Jake held up a towel and a pair of swim trunks. “Hot tub? I saw they had one.”

“Well, it’s most definitely closed by now.”

Jake ducked his head with a bashful grin on his face and shrugged. Rich knew by now that Jake only followed the rules when adults were there to praise him for his obedience, and Jake knew Rich knew, but he always acted like a scolded child when he suggested something even vaguely rebellious.

“Could be fun,” he whispered, blushing at the floor.

“Oh my god, gimme those and stop acting like a five-year-old.”

Jake positively beamed, sunshine incarnated. Rich almost had a heart attack as he ripped the swim trunks from Jake’s grasp as quickly as he could, doing everything in his power to avoid brushing Jake’s hands against his own as he slammed the door shut to get changed.

By the time they got to the hot tub, Rich was sure he was going to die. He didn’t know he had a thing for boys picking locks, but seeing Jake on his knees in front of the glass door, his credit card in the slit between the door and the wall had done something to Rich.

And Jake, skin red from the hot water, eyes glazed over from the third beer he’d had (that someone Rich hadn’t noticed was in his hand)? Yeah. That was something else entirely. He was frozen despite the heat, paralyzed by Jake’s hands on his hips, tracing stars with his thumb.

“You’re so pretty like this,” Jake whispered, voice almost lost in the foggy steam filling the room. He wasn’t making eye contact, instead staring at the point of contact between them like he could see the pearly gates of heaven reflected in the water.

“Yep,” Rich squeaked. He didn’t want to say no, he would do anything to be able to enjoy it for what it was, but… but fuck. This was survival for him. He couldn’t wake up tomorrow in Jake’s hotel room and continue as if nothing had happened—it wasn’t a wouldn’t. There was no choice in this. Rich could not have sex with Jake and be forced to be friends with him afterward. He couldn’t have his feelings manipulated and abused, no matter how much he loved Jake.

Oblivious to Rich’s internal musings, Jake leaned down until he was so close Rich was almost convinced they were kissing.

“You want this?” he said. Just those three words, not the ones Rich was aching, breaking, longing to hear, were enough for their lips to brush together. Less than a second, barely a moment, and Rich thought he felt the moon shatter.

Rich would’ve responded if he could get air in his lungs, but Jake was so close he inhaled all the oxygen that would’ve been Rich’s. All he could do in the haze, the fire, the fear, was shake his head ‘no.’ Not when Jake was drunk. Not when he was looking at Rich like he used to look at Chloe.

Jake jerked back an inch, then two, brows furrowed with confusion.

“I thought—”

“I don’t like you, remember?”

Jake blinked. Rich could tell he was being too slow, his intelligence impacted by the alcohol. It shouldn't take this long for him to figure out what Rich was trying to say—usually, he’d be able to predict Rich’s next words before he even thought them up.

This time, though, Jake just whispered, so small his words could fit in the space between every molecule of air between them, “What?”

“I don’t like you. You told me I don’t like you.”

Another second passed, stretched far beyond what should have been physically possible. Only then did Jake’s eyes flash with recognition.

“Right,” he said, then smiled, “Right, but that was just—I was freaked out, but I’ve thought about it, so much Rich, it’s all I can fucking think about, and you’re—”

“You’re drunk.”

“I’m buzzed at best, Rich, listen to me—” he got closer again, eyes alight, and for a split second, the same amount of time it took for someone to realize they were about to die, Rich felt a flicker of hope. Innocent, buttercup hope. Jake in his arms. Waking up to Jake’s face pressed into his hair. Jake kissing him lovingly.

Rich’s face contorted to hide the blissful fantasy from Jake’s prying eyes.

Jake jerked back again, this time so far that he fell back into the water (gracefully, because everything Jake did was graceful), expression a crater of ash and fire.

“Do you… I don’t…”

“You’re hurting me, Jake.”

Jake scrambled farther away, fumbling through the water to the edge of the hot tub as if it was made of glass shards. His mouth was open, words spilling out in a desperate, violent waterfall.

“No, no, you’re not listening to me, Rich, I want you—”

“Yeah, when you’ve got me half naked.”

“What?! No, stop, I’m telling you I want you, all of you, not sex, or—”

“Jacob I can see your boner from here. Don’t try this. It hurts. You can’t—”

“I’m not trying to!”

Jake’s voice was getting loud, his face redder than before. His wet hair went from sexy to frazzled and threatening. His hands were pulling at the roots, tangling in the knots. Rich recognized the mosaic his fear created and could almost see Jake tumbling off cliffs of insanity and desperation. He knew Jake through the months he spent alone in that empty mansion after his parents left, either drunk on expensive liquor or high on the pills his mother left behind, he knew just how dangerous a desperate Jake could be. Not violent, but so goddamn broken it was impossible not to cut himself on the pieces as he gathered him up and reconstructed him back into a man.

“Then stop it!” Rich screamed, “You don’t fucking know, Jake. You’re fucking—the only relationships you’ve been in have been about sex and, and popularity, and you don’t understand this feeling.”

It was as easy as that. Rich knew he’d twisted the knife, knew that maybe he’d taken it a step too far, but he didn’t deserve this. After years of pining, Jake didn’t get to reject him and then try to bed him. That wasn’t allowed.

When Jake spoke again, it was emotionless. Monotonous. Devoid of all humanity. Words on a page, scripted and controlled. Rich had lost all access to Jake.

“What happened with Chloe doesn’t define me. You know that, I know you know that, so don’t even fucking try me. I don’t know what it’s like to hide and lie about my feelings for years, but you don’t know what it’s like to watch the only person you’ve ever loved—”

“Don’t say that.”

“To watch the only person you’ve ever loved,” Jake repeated, more determined this time, “flinch away whenever you so much as look his way because he’s so insecure he can’t accept that maybe you want to spend the rest of your life with him.”

Rich’s fists clenched. He wasn’t sure how he’d ended up out of the hot tub, but he was standing by the door, dripping and scowling and on the verge of tears.

“Fuck you.”

“Really? That’s it? Tell me what you want. Tell me you want me and it’s that simple. Tell me you know I want you.”

“You’re my best friend.”

Jake flinched at his own words thrown back at him. He kept his mouth clamped shut as Rich kept talking.

“You’re my best friend and I don’t know what the fuck is up with you tonight, but you told me yourself that we’re friends. I’m not going to let you ruin that with sex.”

“That’s not what—”

“I’m not going to let some half-hearted relationship ruin us, Jacob"

Jake stayed silent, seemingly waiting for more. Rich watched him realize there was nothing left to say, that this was the end of the conversation. His lips were trembling. Rich wished they weren’t.

“Fine,” Jake breathed. He sagged to the floor, knees pressed against the tile, hands clasped politely in front of him. “Fine. Friends. Best friends. If—if you really think being together would ruin us, then we’re just friends.”

“Good,” Rich said as if he couldn’t feel each cell within him bursting and bubbling with acidic heartbreak. “Friends.”

They stayed there for a moment, waiting for some finale to hit—some final blow to tattoo this night in black on their skin—but there was only burning silence.

“I’m going to bed,” Rich said finally.

Jake only nodded, still staring at the floor. Rich slipped from the room and screamed out sobs into his pillow until the sun forced light back into his life.

He stumbled through his morning routine, struggling to close his suitcase and stuff it into the trunk of their car. It wasn’t until he saw Jake, his smile bright but eyes tired, sitting alone in the dining room that the haze lifted just enough for him to realize friends ate breakfast together.

He sat down across from Jake without a word, and only once Jake looked up from his half-eaten breakfast did Rich force the skeleton of a smile onto his face. Jake mimicked it with much more success.

“Top of the morning to ya, buddy,” he said, the word buddy spat out like it hurt, “So, I was thinking, St. Louis is like an hour and a half away, maybe we stop there around noon, see the arch thingy, the move on. There’s a zoo like thirty minutes from there that we can stop at for a while. We can end the night in Wisconsin, see I don’t know, some small town, then tomorrow we can go to Minnesota?”

Rich nodded. He wasn’t sure if he could speak yet.

“Great! I’ve still gotta pack up, so just let me do that, then we can hit the road.”

Rich nodded again. Jake’s gaze lingered too long, flitting across his face, from his bloodshot eyes to his lips, before he finally looked away, his smile faltering. He cleared his throat.

“I’ll see ya in a bit, then.”

“Yeah! Can’t wait.”

Rich wished he could think of more to say, but the day seemed to be coated in an unbreakable silence. The car ride was awkward—Jake kept the radio off, choosing instead to prompt Rich with question after question as if they were kids meeting for the first time. Rich offered up every answer he had. He didn’t have many.

They stopped for ice cream sometime in the late afternoon, after a tense trip to the St. Louis arch during which Jake elbowed Rich after making a joke and Rich almost hyperventilated.

“What should I get?” Jake asked, surveying the menu.

“Whatever you want.”

“I want you.”

Rich whipped around to face him, every muscle in his body clenched and ready to fight.

“What?”

“Raspberry looks good.”

Rich didn’t push it., but the words echoed in his ribs until his lungs were bruised.

It happened again a week later. An art museum in Washington.

“It’s beautiful,” Rich said, staring in wonder at a painting of the ocean during a storm.

“So are you.”

Rich didn’t turn to look at him. He scrutinized the painting, looking at every color and brushstroke until three minutes later, Jake had to go to the bathroom.

In California: An aquarium gift shop.

“Do you like it?” Jake asked, watching Rich hold a penguin stuffed animal against his chest.

“I love it,” Rich said, his voice muffled by the fabric. He was hiding his face behind the wings so Jake wouldn’t see his eyes watering at the fact the cashier had called Jake such a good boyfriend for buying him the penguin.

“I love y—”

He had the decency to cut himself off.

“I’m glad you like it,” he amended, and it was left at that.

Until Texas. A hotel twenty minutes from the Space Center Houston only had one room. Of course.

It had two beds. Rich sat upright in one, phone in hand, Michael on the other end. Michael didn’t know what had happened between Rich and Jake, but he did know Jake was on the other side of the room, headphones on as he stared at his computer doing one thing or another. Rich watched him, still helplessly in love despite the repeated heartbreak he experienced every time they did so much as make eye contact.

“Las Vegas was so overhyped,” Rich complained, “Probably because Jake and I can’t legally gamble, but the hotel was so fucking cool. There was this giant fountain and so many lights. Almost had a panic attack because of the noise, but once I got over that it was sick.”

“Las Vegas or San Fransisco?”

“San Fransisco 100% buddy, not even a question. Food was great. I was a little scared we were gonna get devoured by a wildfire, but we ended up fine. East Coast is so much better, though. I can’t wait to get back. Jake said we can stop in the Everglades.”

“You want to got to the Everglades?!”

“Yes!! Snakes, Michael! I need to see a Burmese python and alligator fight to the death!”

“You’re crazy.”

“I’m well aware, but this is a childhood dream of mine that must be fulfilled before death takes me.”

Michael laughed. Jake made a strangled sound from across the room.

Rich froze up and instinctively forced an awkward smile on his face, tense and unsure of what exactly had prompted Jake’s reaction. He glanced at his pretty sunflower out of the corner of his eye—his hunched shoulders, a posture that was so unlike him, his face illuminated by the computer screen. Rich cleared his throat to rip himself from admiring him.

“Yeah, yeah, I’m hilarious,” he choked out, “Okay, it’s—it’s late, I better get going now.”

“It’s like 9—”

“Night!”

Rich hung up but stayed staring at his phone for far too long, terrified to do anything but.

“Are you okay?” Jake whispered. His computer was closed now and he was facing Rich, crisscrossed on his bed. Rich straightened and nodded.

“Yeah, yeah, just tired. Sorry.”

“Have you been tired for the last three weeks?“

Rich blinked at him, too focused on the blue of his eyes to comprehend his words.

“What?” he finally said. Jake just shook his head and turned off the lamp, deciding darkness was the best course of action.

Rich thought it would be him who’d be unable to sleep, haunted by blues and I love yous, but it was Jake who tossed and turned and writhed in his sheets, wrestling with some invisible enemy long after Rich fell asleep.

When Rich awoke the next morning, it was to Jake packing his suitcase. He stayed still for a moment, admiring Jake as he carefully folded each shirt, hands gentle and sure of themselves. Since Illinois, every look he’d given Rich was coated in a layer of lies Rich hadn’t been on the receiving end of since sophomore year.

He didn’t know Rich was watching him now. He looked sad, irrevocably so. The tip of his nose was red, the first sign of sadness. Then it was the parted lips—he was a snotty crier. Rich learned that after watching Bambi with him. He’d been crying, and now he couldn’t breathe through his nose. His chest was moving up and down in stuttery, unsure movements, and after every piece of folded laundry, he had to pause to press the heel of his hand against his mouth to stifle a sob.

“What’s wrong?” Rich rushed out, the usual sluggishness of his mornings completely eradicated by Jake—Jake crying.

Jake jumped at the sound of Rich’s voice and regained his composure within a split second. There was suddenly a smile, open body language, and eyes that remained just as dead as before.

“You’re awake! I have something for you.”

“I don’t care, what’s—”

“No, no, trust me, you’ll care, hold on.”

Still smiling beautifully, he turned to the desk and grabbed two pieces of paper. Then, movements peppy and face alight, he sat down in front of Rich and handed them to him.

“Okay…?” Rich said, looking down at the pieces of paper with little interest—Jake. Crying. Jake. Crying. That was all he was worried about.

Until he realized the papers were printed out plane tickets. One to Florida, the flight set to leave eight hours from then. Another three days later, from Florida to New Jersey. He reread the words. Then reread them. And again. And again.

All he could get out was, “What the fuck?”

“You can see the Everglades!” Jake said as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“Well—well yeah, but… we’re driving there? Together?”

Jake shook his head. “No, yeah, we were, but—I mean, after Illinois…”

He paused to clear his throat and look away. Rich was on the verge of screaming, but that could wait until Jake had finished whatever shitty explanation he was about to offer. The longer the silence lasted, the more Jake’s sunny demeanor faded out.

“After Illinois, I mean you don’t—you aren’t happy, Rich. Not around me. Last night, like, with Michael—” Rich had never heard Jake struggle with words this much. He was stuttering, tripping over his words, raising his volume too high then lowering it to the point Rich could barely hear him. “—you were talking to him, and you won’t do that with me anymore, and I want you to talk like that because it’s—fuck, it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, and if you can’t do that around me anymore—because I fucked up and apparently ruined the best thing to ever happen to me—then maybe some time apart would be good for us?”

Jake looked up at Rich hopefully. Rich wasn’t sure what he was hoping for and he didn’t have the energy to figure it out through the anger crawling inside his skin.

“You’re kicking me out?”

“No! No. I just think you should have the chance to be—no, I need the chance to—I want you to be happy—”

“I’m happy.”

“You won’t even look at me. You won’t talk to me. I’m hurting you.”

Rich suddenly understood why Jake had looked so heartbroken after hearing the phrase you’re my best friend. Having his words manipulated and turned against him hurt more than the flames ever had.

“That’s—no—”

“And I thought I could fix it by just being your friend, but we’re not even that anymore. I want us to be. So badly. I can’t lose you. I can’t go to Harvard without coming home to you every night. And I’ll do anything to save us, and right now that means you have to get away from me.”

“Stop—”

“So I got you tickets to go see the Everglades. I even booked you a boat tour. I’m not sure about seeing a Burmese python, but you can try. Then you can have the rest of summer in New Jersey with Michael and everyone else, and we can meet up in Boston, and everything will be okay.”

“Jake—”

“I can’t ruin another relationship. I know I have a bad track record, I know I can’t commit or be romantic, and you’re probably right to realize I’d destroy whatever beautiful thing we managed to create, but honestly, you’re more beautiful than anything I could ever make, and I can’t destroy that, I have to protect that, even if I’m not around to see it for a while.”

“No—”

“But I can move on while we’re apart, and hopefully you can too, then we can be best friends in Boston and roommates forever and you can get married and I can pretend I’m happy for y—”

Rich kissed him. Quick and sloppy and frantic. It was hypocritical, to say the least, self-destructive if Rich was being completely honest with himself. But the feeling of Jake falling into it, pressing closer and moving so his trembling hands could press against Rich’s waist and back, was intoxicating.

Rich kept it short, though the feeling of just Jake’s gentleness was enough for him to want more.

He pulled back, Jake trailing after him until he collapsed against Rich, forehead pressed to Rich’s shoulder and lips pressed to his neck and collarbone.

“I don’t understand,” he said between kisses. Rich promised himself he’d memorize the feeling before it was taken from him.

“I’d rather be heartbroken with you than happy with anyone else,” Rich explained softly, tangling his fingers in Jake’s hair and pulling his head back to look him in the eye. Jake breathed out a sound Rich chose not to identify and tried to lean up and kiss Rich again.

“You’re not ruinous,” Rich got out just before Jake gifted him kiss after kiss like offerings to a god, “You’re not destructive and Chloe doesn’t define you and I’m sorry I implied she did, I shouldn’t have, and I’m terrified I’m gonna lose you and terrified this is all a prank and terrified you’re going to leave—”

“Never,” Jake confessed, eyes closed and expression melted into pure bliss. “Never, ever, ever. It took me too long to realize how bad I want you. I can’t lose more time.”

“I want you too.”

“I want you to be happy.”

“I can be once I get my head out of my ass and realize you’re even more perfect than I thought.”

Jake laughed soundlessly and pulled Rich onto his lap. “Perfect?”

“You’re gorgeous. You’re kind. You’d never purposefully hurt me, and I was stupid to think you would. I just—it hurt. The car. You telling me—Jake, I was still in survival mode. I didn’t mean anything I said. I swear it. Please don’t make me leave.”

Jake shook his head.

“No, I won’t. I can’t. I’m sorry for what I said in the car. That wasn’t cool or okay, I just… panicked? Because I always knew—I didn’t want to say it, or think it, or acknowledge it, but I knew, and you saying it made it so real I couldn’t even pretend I could ever want anyone else and that was—I wasn’t ready for that to hit so suddenly.”

Rich felt so warm inside he was convinced he was going to overheat and collapse in on himself like a dying star. He kissed Jake like he was made of roses until he was convinced he’d erased every terrible thought he’d placed in Jake’s mind in Illinois.

“So we’re going to stop being cowards now,” Rich said, clear and determined, “And I’m going to be happy because the most beautiful boy in the world decided I’m worth his time and he’s going to be happy because now I’m here to tell him he’s the most beautiful boy in the world every single morning, and that he can’t kick me to the curb even if he tries.”

Jake laughs and nods and kisses him again.

“God,” he whispered, tracing stars on Rich’s hips, “I’ve never been so glad I wasted two thousand dollars in my life.”

“Yeah. Yeah, me too.”

There was a short, weighted pause. Then, “Wait, did you say two thousand? Jake, flights to Florida should not be two thousand dollars.”

“Well, not for economy.”

“Econ—you were planning on giving me first-class tickets to Florida to soften the blow of practically breaking up with me?”

Jake was too giddy to be offended. He wrapped himself around Rich and kissed him again.

“It seemed like a good idea at the time, shut up.”

“No, I am not shutting up, that is the stupidest thing I have ever heard. We’re going to seriously work on your spending habits in Boston, buddy—baby—you’ve got the rest of the summer to be an idiot with your money, then we’re starting a retirement fund. For fuck's sake, you’re going to be broke by the time you’re thirty.”

#bmc #richjake #jake dillinger #rich goranski #i can't spell i'm so tired #help me #the ending was so rushed i'm so exhausted #sorry besties #i'll try harder next time i swear #i keep thinking tomorrow is saturday which is why i stayed up so late working on this but i literally have school tmrw #whoops #sparkly star fanfic

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bloodymiso · 8 months ago

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Hi hi~! I was wondering if I can have a male stardew valley matchup please?

I’m a 25 year old female. I’m 5’4 with dyed burgundy hair and big green eyes. I also wear glasses and have a few piercings (nose and lots of ear piercings). I’m also a little on the chubby side.

Personality: I’m very shy and awkward around at first, but once I’m comfortable with someone I’ll warm up to them fast. I’m also more talkative, bubbly, giggly, sarcastic and a tad bit moody. I can also be mischievous and cause some chaos when I’m bored. I also suffer from anxiety and depression, so I need Simeon who can be patient and understanding. I hate confrontation, so I’ll avoid it as much as possible. I’m not a physical person as touching makes me anxious at times. But I’m very touchy and affectionate with loved ones. More of a reserved and calm person and rather watch my surroundings than participate in socializing. I’m also very sensitive and kind of a hot-head. I can be social if I want, but I’d rather keep to myself and stay home. Sometimes I don’t act my age because of how playful and youthful I come across.

Likes/dislikes and hobbies: if I see anything cute and fluffy I will absolutely melt! I also love kids and would like some in the future. I have two cats of my own, so an animal lover is a must! I enjoy playing instruments, gaming, watching trashy shows, traveling, doing my makeup, banter/teasing and naps! I can literally sleep all day long with no interruptions. Also enjoy spooky things and going on ghost hunts. Absolutely hate spiders, loud abrupt noises and crowds.

Thank you so much and I hope you have a good day/night~!

i ship you with..

sam!!

okay hear me out hear me out. when i started reading i honestly thought “oh def seb or harvey” but then i remember sam exists.

hes really immature for his age but willing to listen to anyone’s problems. he cant just turn on and off adult-mode but he can in the right situation. whenever you need comfort or a hug, he’s there.

i feel like you would have met sam through an injury. you were walking down willow lane when he was skateboarding and hit you like the dumbass he is. rather than going to harvey’s he brought you into the house with the help of jodi. as he *cough*jodi*cough* patched you up.

“sorry for the scratch..”

he actually felt so bad though like legit puppy eyes. he always saw you walking down willow lane to get to the beach or to yk any other part of the town but he never dared to even make eye contact with you. ever since that day he’d say hi. at some point that “hi” transformed into various conversations.

once you two got closer, BOOM jamming(not that jamming as in music jamming what are you thinkiny) sessions. like literally every day. expect seb to join you on saturdays. he invited you to the saloon and introduced you to the group. you and abigail would def do your makeup together, i can see you two vibing. you and abigail would go ghost hunting in the forest, sam would sometimes join but get ready for endless screaming. i can imaginr you and seb being complete gaming rivals

he always dreamed of starting a band with sebastian but now, he dreams of starting it with both of you. sam knows he cant hide his feelings forever, eventually he confesses in the middle of a commercial break as you were watching a movie.

after that you got together but completely forgot to tell the group. one night at the saloon, before you left you gave sam a quick peck on the kiss and left. the others stared for a quick two seconds before screaming at the top of their voice “WHAT.”

he thinks your piercings are soo pretty(i would too) he’d always giggle when he’d kiss your nose and feel the soft tingle of your metallic piercings on his lips. ever since you started dating you two have been complete menaces to the group. literally the best dumb jokes duo ever. jodi loves you, vincent thinks youre “stealing” sam from him.

sam would absolutely love youre cats, the problem is..they dont feel the same(protective much.) he’d try his best to get him to like him, but i guess it takes time:)

thanks for the request! i had a lot of fun with this . reblog if you can:3!!

#stardew valley #stardew valley x reader #sdv #sdv x reader #matchups #sdv matchups #sdv sam #sam sdv #sam x reader #sam x reader sdv #⸜(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )⸝ aki matches?!

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lonelyfanboy48 · 11 months ago

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Steven Universe Of The Creek Chapter 15 Steven And The 10 Speeds

Steven and the group arrived at Ramp City where they witness Cannonball riding his bike on one of the ramps. Upon witnessing Cannonball’s skills, Steven remembered his time riding his bike when he met Connie for the first time. But he was riding on sand on the beach and not in the forest, or creek in this case.

“When you said something about gem powers, what kind of powers do you mean?” Omar wondered.

“I can turn into a fourteen year old…mainly the same size as you all.” Steven answered.

“Did you have that power the other way around?”

“Yes, but it hurts. I’ve turned into a baby after holding it for too long.”

“It really shows that growing tall needs more time.” J.P. commented.

When Steven looked at Cannonball again, his bike was smaller than his old bike. Even if he didn’t bring along his bike after leaving Beach City, he may be able to borrow his or his friends' bikes for permission. After Cannonball went past the finish line, he stopped right away with his group, 10 Speeds walking up to him with their leader.

“Awesome.” Handlebarb smiled while looking at the timer on her phone. “You’re almost close to breaking your record from last time.”

“Just a couple seconds behind.” Warpspeed added.

Cannonball smiled as he got off his bike. He didn’t need to try hard like last time but he couldn’t keep his mind off of what happened last night. “Hey!” Omar called to the attention of 10 Speeds.

“Oh.” Cannonball took notice of Steven. He made his way out of the ramp track once Craig’s group walked up to them. “You’re that guy from last night.”

“Was he that guy you mentioned earlier?” Todd replied.

“He doesn’t look like anything I’ve had in mind.” Warpspeed commented.

When Handlebarb put away her phone, she went with the group to witness the person who was in the storm from last night, and that creature who fought him. “I can’t say he’s that bad, but the whole shield thing appearing from thin air…I’m not buying it.” She spoked.

“You know, just because you didn’t see what happened last night doesn’t mean it didn’t happen.” Steven took it well.

“That's true.” Cannonball agreed.

“This is Steven.” Craig introduced his new friend to 10 Speeds. “He wants to get to know the creek and he’s gonna stay for a while. He wants to check out Ramp City.”

“Huh, a newcomer and a tourist?” Handlebarb smiled. “While I’m not buying about his…shield, but for a tourist, we should give him a first try.”

“Extreme stunts?” Steven wondered.

“And dangerous ones as well.” Kelsey added.

“We do a lot of stunts at Ramp City.” Warpspeed filled in, as he pointed at the course. “There’s a lot of ramps to perform stunts, each bigger than the last.”

As Steven and the group looked at the course itself, Steven found it impressive. “You all do a lot of stunts. I’ve seen bike olympics during my travels.”

“But do they do stunts if they have ramps?” Handlebarb added.

“No.” Her and 10 Speeds said.

“Then again, the Olympics forbid extreme stunts…and ramps.” Steven awkwardly giggled.

“Where’s your bike?” Handlebarb asked.

“Sorry but I don’t have a bike.”

“Not to mention that he’s too big enough to ride any of your bikes.” Omar added.

This gave Cannonball an idea for what he can do for Steven. However he had to remind Steven that there’s a set back. “You all wait here, I’ll be right back.” He went back to his bike to head back to his house to get something for Steven.

While the two groups wait for Cannonball, Handlebarb keeps her attention on Steven himself. She looked straight at Steven’s shirt after what Cannonball mentioned about his gem. “Can you show me your gem?”

“Yeah, we wanna see it.” Warpspeed added.

“Okay.” Steven replied. “Then again people are gonna ask me for that.”

“We just started to get used to it.” J.P. said.

Steven lifted his shirt up slightly to show 10 Speeds his gem. They looked closely at it but it still doesn’t convinced Handlebarb. “I found it hard to believe this…gem would be magical.”

“It feels like it’s shoved in there because you have a big belly button.” Todd commented.

“There are so many things you don’t know about me.” Steven recalled. “Granted I don’t blame you for not believing it, but there is always more than what meets the eye.”

“Trust me, it will change your mind forever.” Craig added. “It changed my mind.”

“Yeah.” Steven giggled while letting go of his shirt. “I’ve changed a lot of minds, but it had nothing to do with my gem.”

“We'll see about that.” Handlebarb replied. “When Cannonball comes back, you’re gonna race with us.” She lifted her hand up for a handshake to which Steven reciprocated.

For the next five minutes, they waited for Cannonball to come back. Craig didn’t expect Steven to be in a race with the 10 Speeds. Granted it’s not for competition, but he’s aware that the leader wants more proof of Steven’s gem.

Soon, Warpspeed noticed Cannonball biking through the trees but slowly with another bike that’s attached to his. “He’s almost back.” He pointed to everyone’s attention.

When Steven looked at what Cannonball had from behind, it was a bike, but a tandem bike for two people to ride on. As he arrived back at Ramp City, he presented everyone with his bike he borrowed back at home.

“This is my tandem bike that my dad and I ride on from time to time.” He replied. “However I couldn’t find a normal bike for one person.”

“Cannonball, even if tandem bikes can do more speed, It isn’t possible to perform stunts.” Handlebarb replied.

“Especially lifting a bike that size.” Omar pointed.

“I can still make it work.” Steven walked up to the bike while turning to Craig. “Craig, can you take the second seat?”

“You want me to ride with you?” Craig also walked up to the bike.

“It’ll be our first activity together.” When he looked at the 10 Speeds again, he whispered into Craig’s ear. “Let’s show them what speed really is.”

“Ohh…” Craig catched on. “Okay.”

In the starting line, Steven and Craig in their tandem bike are next to 10 Speeds with their bikes. J.P., Kelsey, and Omar waited next to the finish line to witness the bikers passing them by.

“I don’t know how you’re gonna do it, but don’t get your hopes up on reaching first place.” Handlebarb replied.

“We can still beat you even if you work together.” Warpspeed added.

“I would probably reach last place, cause I know I’m not faster than all of you.” Todd added.

“Don’t worry at the very least, you at least tried.” Cannonball added.

Steven didn’t take those as compliments. With him handling the handlebars from the front, he can’t wait to blow them away once the race begins. However Craig placed his hand on his head with the effects from before returning.

“Craig?” Cannonball looking straight at him. “Are you feeling alright?”

“A little but I can still do this.” He responded.

Meanwhile, a drone appeared from the sky with a camera attached from the bottom. It was further away from Ramp City to prevent any attention while the camera lens zoomed in on Steven and the others.

“Ready.” Handlebarb preparing to pedal. “Set.” Right at the moment, Steven’s gem glows, preparing to use his gem powers. However Craig’s eyes turned pink when he opened them again, witness pinkess again. “GO!”

Steven turned himself pink as he pedaled. With his super speed, he pedaled past 10 Speeds right after leaving the starting line. Craig somehow manages to be part of Steven’s powers but mainly his eyes that change his perspective.

“Craig, we're gonna be jumping out of a ramp, be prepared to do a stunt.” Steven and Craig jumped off the first ramp of the track as Steven spread his legs apart right before he landed on the track. Craig couldn’t react in time with his eyes being part of the problem. With them reaching another ramp, they jumped off while Steven lifted his hands up. However he didn’t turn to see Craig from behind, who’s still holding onto his handlebar at all times.

They landed on the ground as they reached the last ramp before the finish line. Craig moved his head to see what's in front of him. But with the pinkness, he kept holding onto his handlebar to keep himself from falling off. Even while using his pedals from behind, Steven’s power is what’s controlling his speed despite not being a gem himself.

When they jumped on the final ramp, Craig accidently lifted his body up in the air while Steven did the same. He didn’t jump however, as if his body was made out of air like blowing a balloon. “Whoa!” He reacted while witnessing his perspective upside down in pink. The drone captures the two lifting themselves higher in the air.

They finally landed on the ground after they sat down from their stunt. They went past the finish line while their friends were stunned in disbelief. “Holy cow.” J.P.’s jaw hung open.

From the starting line, Cannonball, Handlebarb, and Warpspeed didn’t move an inch after what they witnessed. They even saw Steven and Craig up in the air with Steven’s gem powers come into play. “Now do you believe it?” Cannonball spoked.

“Yeah, definitely believe it.” Handlebarb responded.

“He definitely beat my record.” Warpspeed added.

As Steven got off his bike, Craig’s vision went back to normal the moment he stopped. “It really felt like we were speeding like Slide The Ferret but at pink speed.”

“That’s because it was my gem powers.” Steven smiled. “It really comes into use whenever I’m late to something.”

As Craig got off of the bike, his friends walked up to them. “That was awesome!” Kelsey cheered. “You two were up in the sky!”

“To tell you the truth, if you were in extreme bike sports, people would have to rely on replaying what you did eighty five percent of the time.” Omar commented.

“You're right. If there’s one thing I have than bike stunters is more speed…but I would be disqualified if they find out about my powers.”

As the group laughed at each other from Steven and Craig’s bike performance, the drone flew away, capturing everything that happened but it was far from done. “So can I pick the place we should go next?” J.P. wondered. “It’ll be really fun.”

“No problem but we should probably let 10 Speeds know about my speed power.”

“Yeah, they’re definitely not gonna sleep knowing that their records have been broken forever.” Omar commented.

But before they headed to the starting line, Todd passed the finish line. “I made it in second place!” He cheered. “I’m no longer in last place!”

As he went past the group, it took them by surprise. “You definitely made one biker happy when it came to hope.” Craig smiled.

“Guarantee this is the first time one of them will experience last place.” Steven finished. “But then again, first time for everyone and everything.”

#fanfiction #steven universe #cartoon crossover #crossover #craig williams #craig of the creek #10 speeds #cartoon network #fanfic #kelsey pokoly #omar #j.p.#cannonball #warspeed #Handlebarb #todd #steven quartz universe

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toby-determined · 1 year ago

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notbad-justsungthatway:

Dear indignantmarker,

Living with a friend can carry its own sort of risks from the stories I’ve heard, but so far it’s been going well for us. I did live alone before that, and I’m very lucky that the job I have allowed me to do that. But my friend is taking care of a child at the moment who I adore, and this way I can help take care of her as well. It means my sleep schedule is more broken than it used to be, but I don’t mind at all. She’s worth it.

What happened at the Lantern Festival was shocking. It does seem like there’s something going on with the forest, but at the moment I’m more concerned about the poor woman who got shot.

I can’t remember the last time I took a holiday, and I certainly couldn’t do one now. I have far too much work to take care of, and I’d rather be here to support my friends.

Right now, the idea of sitting by a beach and being able to read sounds amazing. But I think if I’d taken all the effort to go on a holiday to some sort of far away location, I’d want to do at least a little bit of sight seeing. I’ve always like the idea of going to Spain or Portugal and seeing all of the artwork there. Or going to the United States and getting to experience the music scene there for myself.

What kind of holiday do you prefer?

All the best, CranberryShortcake

Dear CranberryShortcake,

That’s a very lovely thing to do! I hope your friend, the child, and yourself all have a great time living with one another’s company. I am sorry for your sleep schedule though, considering our past conversations on the merits of having a lie-in. I imagine having a child present is rewarding. I have always wanted children but that seems like a dream of the past now.

Yes, it was certainly a strange situation. It is turning out to be a very strange summer, what with the mayor change and the forest. I am hoping the woman has an easy recovery, as I am sure the future for both her and the man who shot her will be very volatile as far as the opinions of the people in this town go for them.

That’s disappointing to hear. Not because I don’t admire your dedication to both your friends and your work, but from what I have gleamed from our emails, you seem like a very caring person. It seems disappointing to me that you won’t have time to relax in the foreseeable future. Maybe you can take your friends with you to support them in one of those locations you mentioned!

Also, forgive my ignorance, but what’s the music scene in the USA?

As for me, as someone who hasn’t been on holiday since I was a child, I’m not entirely sure. I’d like to think I was the activities type, but something tells me I would end up sitting at a roadside cafe people watching and eating the time away.

Have an exemplary day!

indignantmarker

#title: (inbox [1])#ch: (jessica rabbit)#(cranberrymarker)

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starfellforyou · 2 years ago

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– a summertime odyssey

‧ ₊˚ tags: ver. 2.8 summertime odyssey event, kazuha x fem!reader, chill beach day, fun with friends

‧ ₊˚ premise: you spend a beach day on the golden apple archipelago with a few of your best friends and the boy you secretly love...

‧ ₊˚ characters: kazuha, fischl, xinyan, mona

‧ ₊˚ genre: fluff

It’s that time of year again - where the sun is out for good and the waves begin to stir more violently than before, but none of it deters you and your friends from hitting the one place you know you’ll be able to have the summer of a lifetime: the Golden Apple Archipelago. Just off the coast of Barbatos-knows-where, the quaint cluster of tropical islands you’re enclosed within right now is your idea of the perfect summer vacation; especially with the company of your eccentric but lovable best friends.

“It is I, your gracious and benevolent Prinzessin, who shall now proceed to add the final - and much needed - decorations to Lady Megistus’ royal sand palace,” you hear Fischl announce from across the small island you’re standing on, the volume of her exuberant proclamation breaking your reverie.

You roll your eyes and giggle at her antics, beginning to sympathize with Mona for having to put up with whatever it is Fischl’s… Fischl-ing. The two of them have mainly been keeping to themselves over the past few hours since their arrival - probably because Fischl’s in the midst of holding Mona captive and Mona’s too kind to tell her to snap out of it. That’s something you’ve always loved about Lady Megistus; she may not always seem like it, but she’s a deeply patient and caring person beneath her self-absorbed outer shell. The hermit crabs really do belong at the beach.

You turn to your left and lock eyes with Xinyan, who’s apparently in the midst of collecting seashells for… whatever reason. She’s definitely a crafty person.

“Hey Y/N!” she greets you with her usual twangy accent, a bright smile on her face, “What’re you up to?”

“Oh, nothing much,” you reply with a sheepish look on your face, “Hey–uh… Have you seen Kazuha?”

Kazuha. The only boy who came along - and the person you’ve been harboring a secret crush on for the past few months. He’s a wandering samurai with Beidou’s fleet; a sure indicator that he’s emotionally unavailable in some way (this is a fact you know to be true). Does it affect you at all, that he doesn’t reciprocate your feelings for him? A little, but you value your friendship with the kind-hearted, considerate swordsman too much to make any moves. For now, you’ll just have to be at peace with a platonic, modest relationship with the boy you’ve been fancying for the better half of the year. Simple, right?

Xinyan scrunches her eyebrows together, seemingly unsure of his whereabouts, “...Sorry, I haven’t seen him all day. Come to think of it, you should probably go check on him.”

Within the next few minutes, you leave the island and head for a neighboring stretch of land that appears to be covered in lush forest. Palm trees and bushes of exotic tropical plants strewn over sandy shores, mysterious caves above land, a cacophony of diverse wildlife filling your ears - this island looks like somewhere Kazuha would escape to for some space from the rest.

The moment your Waverider hits the edge of the beach, you race into the vegetation to find him. It takes you a while, but you finally spot something of significance in the forest; Kazuha’s Vision, lying alone on the ground. Is he in trouble? Your heart picks up speed as you begin to panic, plagued by the realization that you have no way of ensuring his safety.

“KAZUHA!” you start to yell, voice trembling and laced with concern, “KAZUHAAAAA!!! WHERE ARE YOU!?!?”

“...I’m right here,” a soft voice calls out to you from behind a bush of leaves, familiar and comforting, “Please stop yelling.”

You look up, startled, only to find Kaedehara Kazuha sitting on a large rock by a beautiful river and waterfall. He’s wearing his usual day-to-day robes, except his sash and armor are nowhere to be seen. His hair is loose and slightly damp - he looks breathtaking like this. Mildly embarrassed, you realize he’d probably just gone for a quick swim that morning and forgot to tell the others.

Cheeks flushed, you bashfully make your way toward him. At the sight of Kazuha before you, your heart is no longer in distress, but serene and void of troubles.

“Were you… worried–about me?” he asks, in a manner that you can’t quite distinguish as being flirty or genuinely curious.

You take a step back, wary of your decision to never reveal your true feelings to him, “I was not! I was merely looking for you after the suspicious prolonged disappearance you pulled - as per the others’ request.”

He chuckles, a sound so reminiscent of a dove taking flight for the first time that you feel as if you’ll burst into flames - right then and there. He hops off the rock with the agility and dexterity of a trained samurai and reaches for his Vision and sword, refusing to take his eyes off of you even once. It makes your heart flutter, but you try not to let it show on your face. Calm down, Y/N. Get it together.

“We should head back and join the rest. They’re probably worried sick about us by now,” you tell him, though you highly doubt so with all that sandcastle-building and seashell-collecting going on.

“–Yes, actually–I’ve been meaning to tell you something… But it can wait, until after.”

Strange…

…

You see the rest of your friends huddled by a small fire on the beach. They look happy. You jog up to the scene, only for him to pull you back by the arm and motion for you to follow him elsewhere. Confused, you tag along, trying your best to ignore the smug look on Xinyan’s face when she notices you and Kazuha walking off together.

You wind up on the opposite side of the island where, strangely enough, the sky seems to be darker than before. It’s probably just the archipelago working its magic. The air around you is illuminated by hundreds of fireflies, and you can feel the cool breeze of the ocean up ahead flutter the ends of your eyelashes.

“Do you like it…?” he asks, turning to face you.

“Yeah, it’s beautiful.”

Without taking his gaze off of your face, he replies, “Yes, it is.”

You tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear, suddenly self-conscious about your untidiness. Without warning, he steps forward and reaches for the side of your face, pulling the lock of hair back out.

“I like it better this way,” he whispers, his breath warm against yours.

Then, as if in a trance, he leans in and kisses you on the cheek - a kiss so tender, so gentle that you feel yourself go weak in the knees.

“Why so surprised? It’s not as if you haven't been dreaming of that moment since the day you met me, anyway.”

a/n: this one's for the kazuha stans <3

✧ starfellforyou

#genshin impact #genshin fanfic #genshin x reader #genshin impact x reader #genshin hcs #genshin headcanons #genshin x y/n #genshin scenarios #kaedehara kazuha #kazuha #kazuha x reader #kazuha x y/n #xinyan #mona megistus #fischl

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smallestapplin · 3 years ago

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Hey here's a random yet crazy idea I got from someone who did a similar post involving a Corviknight surprise adopting a trainer in Galar. Imagine the warden's noble Pokemon and their respective Ride Pokemon hust straight up adopting MC. And when the exile rumour reaches their ears they make life for Kamado hell while their wardens just watch from afar and gave the hardest time keeping their laughs down. The cherry on top is Irida and Adaman find out what was going on and rather than chew them out for such actions they ask to get in on it by adding in their Leafeon and Glaceon on the act since they along with their other Eeveelution counterparts.

I live for dunking on the old fart....

You and everyone else it seems! Very happy about this amazing turn of events! Also I agree with everyone in the pictures below.

Asks are open

While the wardens are upset at the banishment. Most always will be (cough cough Lain cough cough Sabi cough cough Ingo cough cough Palina cough cough a-)

What most didn’t expect was ever noble Pokémon to be upset too.

And their wardens can’t do anything about it.

Lady Sneasler growls and hisses at the commander while she pulls you closer to her. You’re her kit and she will be damned if she lets that thing closer to you!

“I apologize, Lady Sneasler has never been one to follow orders she doesn’t like.”

Lord Wyrdeer stomps his hooves and let’s out agitated huffs. A calf of his is to be protected and respected!

“I’m sorry about that commander, Lord Wyrdeer has never acted like this before, I don’t know how to help you.”

Lady Ursaluna isn’t allowed close to the commander after rushing in between you and him and snarling with full intent of attacking. She refuses to let him near her cub after what he did!

“Forgive Ursaluna commander, she has never behaved in such a way. Maybe you smell different?”

Lady Lilligant’s free and sweet personality shifts into one almost like she was frenzied again. Livid that someone would do such a thing to her little petilil!

“Really? My lady is always so happy and cheerful! What did you do to make her so mad?”

Lord Kleavor is just as upset as his young warden. The lord makes it known he the first he saw the commander approach that he was no longer welcomed in his forest! After what he did to his poor deformed scyther!

“Sorry, Lord Kleavor has his mind made up, you ain’t welcomed here anymore.”

Lord Braviary screams warning screeches anytime he drops you off near the village. His weird rufflet can’t even fly! How dare they banish you!

“Oh? That’s bad..isn’t it? Sorry Braviary doesn’t seem to like you very much.”

Lord Electrode in wake of the news let’s of what he’d call mini explosions of rage. But Melli and Ingo will tell you they had to evacuate with all the rocks tumbling down.

“I swear if I could calm him down I would! My hair was ruined in that explosion!”

Lord Arcanine, arguably one of the sweet of the nobles shown why he has the seat of his late father, Kamado stepped one foot on firespit island and was instantly attacked.

He got away before there could be damage but the noble refuses to obey to such disrespect of his littermate!

“Lord Arcanine has always been a good judge of character, sensing what we can’t…seems he has made a judge on you.”

Lord Basculegion is upset he can’t do more against the commander. Though the large fish keeps the commander away from prelude beach because of the lord with murderous intent.

“H-he has never acted like this, I promise! And it’s not like I can talk to him about this, I’m so sorry sir!”

Lord Avalugg, the largest of the nobles, like most he sees you as an odd bergmite. He is quiet fond of you, the news of what Kamado had done spread and when overhearing Gaeric speak on it the lord when crazy, the ice lands were inaccessible for a week because of the fit the lord threw.

“Hm? Nah it gave me a workout to climb over all the new giant things of ice Lord Avalugg dropped! You must’ve seriously upset him! Haha!”

It doesn’t help that even the clan leaders respected Pokémon turned their noses up at the commander.

The two eeveeultions actually teamed up to make his day hell whenever they arrived.

Glaceon froze the commander’s tea.

“Glaceon! What if that was the last bit of tea?” (“Do it again just make sure he isn’t around.”)

Leafeon grew and left a fruit behind some pillow cushion and no one found it until it had completed rotted and the entire couch had to be tossed out because they couldn’t clean it or get the smell out.

“My Leafeon would never do such a thing! She’s a very good girl!”

(“Yes you are, yes you are! Such a good cutie, wreck his shit-“)

#pokemon #pokemon imagines #shitting on kamado hours #pokemon x reader

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dreamerstreamer · 4 years ago

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Somewhere Only We Know

Pairing: god!Dream / DreamXD x gn!reader

Summary: [Reincarnation!AU & Dream SMP!AU] Being a god can be especially lonely—Dream knows that better than anyone. Yet somehow, you always manage to find your way back to him in every life you live. If only it didn’t hurt so much to love you.

Warnings: tw// mention of death

Word Count: 5.6k

A/N: requested by the lovely 🤡 anon, who asked for a piece based on keane’s somewhere only we know! i got rather carried away when writing this, and it’s certainly quite sad, but i hope you all enjoy it! <3

Dream blinks lazily up at the fluffy clouds drifting across the cerulean sky, his emerald eyes tracing over their soft edges. He hums to himself as one of them drifts in front of the sun, the warm light suddenly leaving his face. Frowning, he sits up a little straighter, raising his arm above his head. He snaps his fingers once, and in an instant, the clouds vanish. Warmth floods his cheeks as the sun’s brilliant rays crash over him once more. He smiles, but it’s melancholic, a forlorn look passing over his face.

Just how long has he been alone like this?

Sighing, he rises to his feet, kicking at the soft dirt beneath the soles of his boots. His viridian cloak is light atop his shoulders, his wings neatly folded underneath the soft fabric. Above his head, his halos glow with a dazzling golden hue, sending beams of amber light flashing across the nearby tree trunks. Rolling his neck, he snaps his fingers again, and his wings and halos vanish in a flash. Just like that, the weight on his back dissipates, and his lips twitch. There—that’s much lighter.

His gaze flickers over to the waterfall lying just a yard away, rushing ripples of water streaming down the short cliff face and into the pool lying at its base. He crouches down next to the small pond, brushing his hand over the soft soil beneath his feet. Sparks shoot up his arm and into his fingertips, the earth suddenly bursting to life underneath his touch.

All of a sudden, a blossom sprouts from the ground, soft and pink as it unfurls its petals and soaks up the warm sunshine. Dream grins as row after row of flowers shoot up from the ground, circling around the pond and lining the trees around the clearing until suddenly, the whole space is surrounded by breathtaking blossoms. He stands back with a satisfied hum, glancing around himself with an almost nostalgic gleam in his gaze.

It’s been ages since he last returned to this little alcove in his favourite forest. He could tell no one else had stepped foot here except for him, too. After all, there was only one other person who knew about this place—the only other person in the world he knew would be able to find it in the first place.

Had it been decades or centuries since he last visited? He’s not sure anymore, but really, he’s not sure if he cares, either. There’s a reason why he doesn’t come back here very often—one that he hesitates to even think about.

It’s far too painful of a memory to relive.

“Hello?”

Dream freezes, his eyes going wide at the sound of a new voice—a familiar voice. Slowly, he turns, his lips parting in awe as he sees a figure stepping into the clearing, a mix of caution and curiosity flitting across your cheeks.

He knows that face—knows you.

His heart aches at the thought.

“Hi,” he manages after a long moment, swallowing ever so slightly.

You flash him a sheepish smile, lowering your gaze to the ground almost bashfully as you brush a stray leaf off your shoulder. “I’m sorry if I’m intruding, or anything. I was just passing by when I saw the flowers, and thought they looked really pretty, and...”

You trail off, your voice growing smaller and smaller until it fades off into silence. Dream stares at you, unmoving as his heart races a mile a minute in his chest, battering against his rib cage as your timid gaze flickers to his.

“I, um,” you squeak out, feeling the intensity of his eyes on yours. “I can go if you wa—”

“No,” Dream suddenly blurts, the word flying out of his mouth before he can stop himself. He can already feel the heat flooding his chest at the way you startle in front of him, and he sucks in a breath.

“Wait,” he says, calmer this time. “Please, I—you’re not intruding at all. You can stay.” He takes a shaky step forward, offering you a crooked yet earnest smile. “I’d love it if you stayed.”

In an instant, your face lights up, and his breath hitches in his throat at the sight. “O-Oh, thank you! It’s nice to meet you. My name’s [Y/N].”

In that moment, he could have sworn his heart stopped and would never beat, again. “What’s yours?” you ask, your eyes shining like freshly cut gemstones.

His eyes scan your face for a moment, taking in the soft panes of your cheeks and the delicate curve of your lips as your smile leaves tiny cuts in his lungs.

“Dream,” he breathes at last. “Call me Dream.”

Suddenly, your eyes curve into tiny crescent moons as you grin at him, and he feels the loneliness flowing through his veins subside the tiniest bit.

Even after all this time, he still can’t bring himself to forget your smile.

Dream hums to himself as he tosses a pebble into the pond from his spot on the fallen tree log. The stream laps at the stone once before swallowing it whole, letting it sink to the murky bottom without so much as a splash. A rustle comes from behind him, and he immediately whirls, his lips curling up into an eager smile.

“[Y/N],” he chirps, bright and keen, “welcome back.”

Your glowing face greets him in return, and he nearly combusts on the spot. He still remembers the way you had promised him you would return to see him again a week ago, when you had first stumbled upon his clearing. His head still spins at the thought, and it almost makes him forget the longing ache that sinks into his bones when his gaze lingers on you for a fraction too long.

Almost.

You wave at him as you jump over a protruding tree root, crinkles forming at the corners of your eyes. “Good morning, Dream! What are you doing here so early? The market only just opened.”

He shuffles over on the log to give you room, raising an eyebrow at you. “I could ask the same of you.”

Crouching over, you settle down onto the space next to him, not at all noticing the way he stiffens when your thigh brushes against his. “I woke up early to watch the sunrise,” you say with a half-drowsy smile.

There is a beat of silence, then Dream tilts his head at you. “The sunrise?”

You bob your head, turning to look at him. “Yeah,” you murmur wistfully, raising your arm to wave your hand up at the sky above. “I love watching all the pretty colours fill the horizon. It only lasts a few minutes, but it’s so magnificent, and I always try to watch them if I can.”

His eyes flash as he takes in your gentle expression. Then, he opens his mouth, thoughtful and slow. “Sunrises, hm? What other things do you like?”

You pause for a moment. “Other things I like?” When he nods, you hum, averting your gaze from his until you find yourself staring over at the bubbling waterfall.

“I like... I like flowers,” you begin, “but you already knew that.” He chuckles at the hint of a smile that dusts your face before you continue. “I like exploring the market every Saturday, too. They always have something new to find.”

Suddenly, your eyes flicker to life, glittering with excitement. “Oh, I also like stargazing! It’s like watching the universe paint a picture with little crystals every night, and something about looking up at the sky makes me feel so small, and I... I...” You gesture vaguely, a frustrated noise escaping your throat. “I don’t know. I just like it.”

Dream cannot help the way his heart melts in his chest at the sound you make, a certain fondness seeping into his soul. You were always so endearing—always, always, always.

“What about you, Dream?” you say suddenly, looking at him curiously. “What things do you like?”

Dream blinks at you—once, twice. Suddenly, his mind is flooded with image after image, memory after memory.

He thinks of the millennia he has lived through, the cities he has watched rise and fall. He thinks of the countless distances he has wandered, travelling far and wide with a heavy loneliness hanging in his barren heart. He thinks of soft kisses pressed to calloused fingertips and fluttering eyelids.

Then, he looks at you, with your enraptured eyes and your glorious grin.

“You,” he says, sincerity gracing his every word. “I like spending time with you.”

He watches as you stammer in reply, your eyes going wide as you gape at him in a mixture of embarrassment and flattery. He laughs at you, and his heart swells in his chest.

He’s missed you—more than you would ever know.

��Say, Dream, have you ever seen the ocean?”

The sun glares harshly into your eyes from where you lie on the earth, staring up at the cobalt sky, but Dream hardly notices—his eyes are too focused on you. “I have,” he murmurs as his gaze traces over the bridge of your nose in wonder. He’s seen more of the world than he would like to admit. After all, he was the one who created it in the first place. But to you, he’s just a simple traveler with a penchant for waterfalls.

Before he can even register it, you’ve bolted upright, bending over him with an excited shout. “Really?! What’s it like?”

He jolts at the sudden movement, all too keenly aware of how close your face is to his before his shuffles into a sitting position, resting his chin on his hand. “Well,” he begins, “it’s really big. So big that you can’t see the shore on the other side no matter how hard you try. It’s blue as far as the eye can see, and the breeze kind of tastes salty if you open your mouth.”

He catches a flash of your awed expression as he waves his arm in front of him to illustrate the vast size of the ocean. “The water,” he continues, envisioning the waves as they crash onto the sand, “is nice and cold, and if you swim deep enough, you might find fish and coral. It’s relaxing to watch the tide come up into the beach. Sometimes, shells wash up onto the shore, too. You can keep those as little souvenirs.”

For a moment, you are silent as you simply stare at him, something swirling deep within your gaze. “Wow,” you say at last, sounding completely breathless. “That sounds beautiful.” You stretch your legs out in front of you, your fingers curling into the grass spread beneath your palms. “My best friend says there’s mermaids in the ocean.” You scrunch your nose. “I don’t know if I believe him, though.”

Something dark ripples through Dream, and the tiniest of frowns passes over his face. “Your best friend?” he parrots.

You nod. “Yeah—his name’s Karl. He’s really nice and likes to goof off a lot. He’s also a really good storyteller!” You look at him then, fondly and with such a kind look it almost knocks Dream right over. “I think you might like his stories.”

His lips quirk up into a coy smile, and he leans ever so slightly forward. “Would I, now?” he croons, a teasing lilt tinting his tone. “What kind of stories does he like to tell?”

You clasp your hands together, excitement brimming in your face. “Oh, wonderful ones! There’s the one about the sleepy fox, the one about the pig who could not be killed, and the one about how we all face reincarnation after death, but my favourite,” you murmur, “is about the creation of the world.”

Dream goes still at that, his smile faltering for a split second. “How does that one go?” he asks softly.

You scoot the tiniest bit closer to his side, your gaze lowering ever so slightly. “Once upon a time,” you start, your voice as smooth as velvet, “a god descended from the heavens and carved the world into the shape it is today.” You traced your finger along the soft dirt. “He made valleys and hills, oceans and rivers, decorating the land with flowers and trees. The world he made was beautiful, but it was lonely, so he filled it with people to keep him company. He was so full of joy to have friends, until one day, he fell in love.”

Your demeanour, which had been cheerful up until this point, suddenly shifted, darkening as you let out a sigh. “He fell in love so quickly and so deeply that he was blind to the nature of his own creations, as they had a mortal lifespan, unlike him. When his lover died, a part of his soul died with them. He vanished after that, never to be seen again.” You curl your knees to your chest, resting your head upon them. “Some people say he wanders the world, mourning for all of eternity. Others say he died of heartbreak. Even fewer believe that his lover lives on and he loves them still, although they’re not entirely sure. Either way, he has yet to appear, and humanity quietly awaits for his return.”

Dream is silent beside you, his lips pressed into a thin line as his chest rises and falls with the timing of his breaths. “Why is that story your favourite?” he finally asks.

You lift your head, surprise shooting across your face. “I’m not sure,” you say softly, pondering for a moment. “I just think he sounds so... sad. It’s a tragedy, what happened to him. He only wanted to not be alone anymore.” Your voice drops even lower. “He only ever wanted to love someone.”

An ache suddenly expands within his gut, digging into his sides of his skull with such ferocity he fears he may never escape it. That same, fleeting sense of solitude slinks around his lungs, squeezing and squeezing until your eyes lock into his, and they halt.

“Do you think that he lives on?” you whisper, your gaze searching his. “That he might have found someone else to keep him company, despite his sadness?”

You pause, something like hope sparking within your eyes. “Do you think... he ever loved again?”

Dream stares at you, and stares at you, and stares at you. Your lips are right there, are so dreadfully close to him as he looks at you, feeling the blood pound through his ears as the pain in his heart begins to lift. It rises higher and higher within him before sliding off his shoulders entirely, leaving nothing behind but tender affection and warmth—a warmth he had been yearning for for so, so long.

He smiles at you then, and for once, this one is real.

“Something tells me he did.”

Dream stretches his wings out behind him with a quiet groan, feeling the cool air ruffle his ivory white feathers. His cloak sits on the ground next to him while his golden halos spin rapidly atop his head from where they float, glowing faintly in the fading evening light. After a moment, he lets his wings fold back up against his back, lowering his arms with a sharp exhale. In the distance, he catches a glimpse of the setting sun just before it dips below the horizon, shrouding the world in darkness. With a bored look, he picks at his nail, curling his toes in his shoes.

He’s already waved you off and watched as you wove your way out of the clearing and between the forest’s tangled trees back to your village. Now, he has nothing left to do but wait for your return the next day, his throat aching for your arrival with every passing second.

How far I have fallen, he thinks distantly to himself, to be reduced to nothing more than a helpless admirer for a human.

A moment passes, and his heart sighs.

A lovely human, at that.

All of a sudden, he hears a stick snap behind him, and Dream immediately snaps his fingers, his wings and halos disappearing in a flash, almost as if they had never existed to begin with. Whipping around on his heel, he narrows his eyes at the clearing entrance, jaw clenched in preparation. His shoulders are raised at his side, tense with anticipation when just then...

...you stumble out of the forest, tears streaking down your face.

Dream’s shoulders fall in an instant.

“Dream,” you choke out, your voice cracking sharply.

You don’t even get the chance to open your mouth again before he’s standing in front of you, his hands gripping your shoulders as gently as he can manage. His eyes scan your face as his stomach churns with agony at the despair painted onto your features. “[Y/N],” he murmurs softly, “what’s wrong? Why are you crying?”

You sniffle, lifting your head to look at him through watery eyes as you open your mouth. “Karl—he’s sick. Really sick,” you babble like a winding stream. “The doctor doesn’t know what’s wrong with him, and he’s been coughing so badly that you can just tell he’s in pain. At this rate, I—I’m scared he’s not going to get any better. He... I’ve known him since forever, and I—”

The words die in your mouth as you cut yourself off with a broken sob, and Dream almost feels as though he’s been stabbed in the gut. He never wants to see you in pain, to see you as sad as this, and the fact that you are sobbing at all makes him want to wail himself.

Softly, he wraps his arms around you, pressing you close to your chest as he rocks you gently back and forth with your head resting on his shoulder. Your tears soak his shirt, but he doesn’t mind one bit. “Shh, [Y/N],” he coos quietly. “It’s going to be okay.”

You pull back with a wary gaze, fear etched into your features. “How do you know that?” you whisper. “What if he doesn’t get better? What then?”

Dropping one arm from behind you, Dream slips a hand into his pocket, quickly rubbing his fingers together. Just like that, cool glass that wasn’t there a moment earlier presses against the warmth of his palm, and he pulls out a vial filled with a pale, rosy liquid.

“Here,” he says, pressing the vial into your hand. “This is an antidote I’ve been...” He pauses for a split second, then fibs. “...holding onto for a while. For emergencies.” Slowly, he clasps your fingers until they’re closed around the glass top, sending you a reassuring smile. “Give this to Karl, and I promise you he’ll recover.”

You blink at him, your eyes glimmering underneath the light of the swirling stars overhead. “You swear?” you ask meekly, hope dancing along the edge of your lashes.

Dream swallows thickly and nods. “On my life.”

You inhale a deep, shuddering breath, then raise your hand to wipe at your eyes before smiling at him, warm and full of affection. “Okay,” you murmur as you step back from him. “I trust you, Dream.”

The next morning, you come tumbling into Dream’s arms with a gleeful cry, tears flowing freely down your face as you knock him to the ground. This time, they’re there for an entirely different reason as you ramble about Karl’s cleared airways when the doctor came to check on him after you fed him the antidote.

Beneath you, Dream relishes in the warmth of your body against his, praying you cannot feel the way his heart hammers against his chest.

There were not enough words in the world that he could use to describe how deep his devotion to you ran.

He fears there may never be enough.

Months pass in a blur, and Dream watches with knowing eyes as summer turns to autumn. Soon enough, snow coats the clearing although the waterfall continues to flow. No matter how harsh the weather, you stumble your way back to the forest to him, and each day, Dream feels himself sink deeper and deeper into the very essence that is you.

To think that there was once a time he never wanted to return here at all.

“Dream,” you say abruptly one day, “you know, I think you might be my favourite person in the world.”

He cocks a brow at you, his lips twitching up into a small smirk. “In the world?” he repeats. “I think Karl would be offended.”

You roll your eyes at him, but you can’t stop the smile from stretching across your face. “Maybe, but it’s the truth!” You lift a hand and begin counting off on your fingers. “You’re—you’re so nice, and passionate, and bold, and bright, and...” You pause, then chuckle almost shyly. “I could go on and on, but that’s embarrassing.”

He chuckles at your words, only growing more and more enamoured with each word that falls from your lips. “It’s not embarrassing,” he says gently. “It’s cute.”

Your shoulders suddenly stiffen, and you slowly turn your head to glance up at him. “Cute? You think I’m cute?”

He doesn’t have to think twice about his response. “Very much so. I would dare say that you are even more beautiful than you are cute.”

You whine with a pout, heat crawling up the side of your neck as you dig your thumbs into your palms. “You can’t just say things like that.”

He stares at you for a second, then he flashes you a grin that is both parts wicked and affectionate. “Maybe, but it’s the truth.”

Your mouth drops open at the way he fires your own words back at you, and you gape at him a moment before you groan, reaching over to playfully bat at his arm. “Why, you!”

He laughs at you and loves the way he can tell your heart races in your chest. He loves the way you smile despite your small shouts of frustration. He loves the way you are just so endearing to him in every which way.

He laughs at you and he loves you, hopelessly and wholly.

Dream gazes up at the orange sky with a slight frown and furrowed brows, watching as the clouds coast by overhead on a distant, northern gale. The waterfall babbles restlessly at his side, and he taps his foot against the smooth stones lining the pond with abandonment. The flowers he had once grown rake this petals over the soles of his shoes as he lets out a long sigh, anxiety slowly beginning to paw at his backside.

Are you going to show up at all today? he wonders. There are some days you don’t appear at all, typically because you had to run some errands or something of the sort, but those days are few and far between. He won’t chastise you for not seeing him, of course, but he cannot simply ignore the pang of his heart when he misses you so.

His fingers drum against the cool material clutched in his hands, and a melancholic look flits over his features. It would be a shame if you didn’t appear though, especially given what he had in mind for the day.

Right then, he hears your lovely voice call out for him. “Dream!”

His frown is immediately replaced by a smile as he whirls around to see you, his hands carefully tucked behind his back. “[Y/N],” he greets, striding up to you. “It’s good to see you.”

You’ve only just made it in front of him when he opens his mouth again, excitement filling his words to the absolute brim. “I brought you a gift.”

You blink wildly at him, pointing to yourself in surprise. “For me?”

His grin only grows wider, his heart leaping into his throat. “Of course it’s for you, silly. Who else?”

You squint for a second, then smile. “Karl?”

Dream deadpans at you, and you laugh in return, not noticing the way his eyes melt fondly at your expression. “I’m kidding,” you chide, shuffling a step closer to him. “So, what is it?”

He’s practically bouncing on the balls of his feet when he finally brings his hands out from behind him, pushing them towards you. “Ta-da! Here.”

Your breath catches at the sight of his palms, and with trembling hands, you reach up to pull the curved item from his hand. “Is this... a shell?” you whisper, your eyes as wide as saucers.

He nods, his emerald eyes gleaming with pride. “A conch shell,” he says. “From the ocean.”

You sputter as you gently turn the shell over in your hands, your fingers tracing over the solid edges with nothing short of pure shock. “H-How did you even get this? The nearest ocean is at least a week’s travel on horse away!”

Dream thinks of the wings he typically had tucked on his back and how they carried him to the ocean and back in less than a few minutes, but to you, he only smiles and shrugs. “I have my ways.”

You don’t respond for a moment, then two. All of a sudden, you sniffle, and Dream is bending before you in a heartbeat, his hands reaching for yours before just stopping short. “[Y/N]?” he asks in a soothing tone. “Is something wrong?”

Your gaze is watery, but only slightly as you raise your chin to look at him, your lower lip set with determination. “Dream,” you say with a shaky breath, “I have to tell you something.” You gulp. “It’s serious.”

Immediately, Dream’s mind runs through a million and five possibilities of what you could possibly say to him, each one increasingly worse than the last. Your family is in need of funds, or you’re about to leave on a life-threatening journey. Or maybe Karl is just sick, again.

But before he can run himself into the ground with his own worries, Dream lets out a breath and tilts his head at you. “What is it?”

Your gaze falls down to your feet, and you stare at the earth for an excruciatingly long minute. Dream simply stands in front of you, patiently and earnestly waiting for your response when you suddenly open your mouth.

“I—I love you.”

Dream’s lungs feel as though they are about to collapse in his chest. “You do?”

You bite your lip, but raise your head, your shoulders trembling at your sides. “Yes,” you whisper, the syllable steeped with emotion. With one hand clasped around the conch shell, the other reaches up to rest over your chest, palm pressed flats against your left side. “My heart is yours, all of it.”

The world is a blur of colours and sounds around him, and he can feel his head spin faster and faster as a wave of memories come crashing down over him, drowning him whole. He wants to tear his hair out and scream to the heavens above until his throat is raw and he can scream no more.

You love him. You love him back, and as much as he wants to burn your words into the back of his eyelids, something else sinks its claws into his heart and tears a hole right into the flesh.

This is not the first time you have spoken these words to him. No, not at all.

He had done his best to forget them over all those years, had tried his best to outrun the anguish with every century he lived through. After all, when you live as long as he has, it is only natural for him to forget some things. Through wandering across every land he had lovingly sculpted by hand, he had hoped to erase his suffering by engulfing himself in other worldly affairs, isolating himself entirely from others.

But no amount of time could ever truly erase the memories he had of you—the first incarnation of you, from all those years ago.

He remembers how the two of you had shared your first kiss under the light of the full moon, giggling to one another as he wrapped you up in his soft feathers. He remembers the way you would hold his hand and tell him about all the things you could not wait to do with him in the very same clearing he stood in now. He remembers the way your body went limp in his own arms, coughing until your lungs could cough no more. He remembers the agony and the torment as he wasted away, too caught up in the imprint of your skin against his before you turned to dust before his very eyes.

He remembers it all, and he cannot not let himself be shattered like that, again.

“I have to go,” he whispers, jerking his arm back from yours.

You whip your head up, pain shooting across your face. “Y-You’re leaving? What?”

He takes another step back and swallows down the lump in his throat, but it tastes like acid burning his stomach. “I—I can’t stay here.”

Before he can move back again, your hand shoots out to grab at the hem of his shirt, desperation soaking into your face: “P-Please,” you plead, “you can just say you don’t love me back. My feelings for you won’t change.”

He wants to cry. No, he thinks, it’s not that. It could never be that. Not with you.

You clutch at the cloth, hoping your feelings somehow reach him through your anguished touch. “I love you, Dream,” you begin, “I really do. I love how attentive you are, how much you always seem to care. You’re always so patient with me, so kind, so generous, and it makes me melt inside. I love the way your eyes shine so brightly, and I love your little freckles. I want to count them all, and I don’t mind if that takes the rest of eternity.”

You’re almost entirely out of breath by now, and Dream’s jaw has gone slack. He can only stare at you with a look of pure conflicting despair as your eyes search his for answers he knows he cannot possibly give. “An eternity with you would be nothing,” you breathe, your voice cracking. Your grip on his shirt suddenly goes limp, and your arm falls back to your side. “Please. Stay.”

The knife in his gut only seems to twist deeper as he takes yet another step back, his cloak feeling like a boulder upon his back. “I can’t,” he chokes out. “I really can’t.”

Tears line your eyes like tiny jewels, and he wishes he could wipe them away. “Why?” you beg. “Why do you have to go?”

He opens his mouth, then closes it, shaking his head. He doesn’t even know where to begin.

In front of him, a look of absolute defeat sinks into your expression, and your voice grows smaller than ever. “At least—at least tell me if I’ll ever see you again.”

Dream’s feels the back of his eyes sting, and he clenched his hands beside him. “Not in this lifetime,” he wants to say. “And hopefully not in the next, either.”

“I’m sorry, [Y/N],” he says instead.

Just like that, he watches as the light fades from your eyes, vanishing from sight as the setting sun watches on with a sad gaze. Your lower lip trembles, and before you can stop yourself, you’re crumpling to the ground in a heap and watering the earth with your tears. You clutch the conch shell to your chest and let it dig into your chest from how tightly you press it against yourself, your vision completely blurred. In front of you, Dream holds back tears of his own, forcing himself to look away from your broken figure as he walks toward the forest away from you.

Your wails follow after him even after he unfurls his wings deep in the forest and soars up into the sky, flying high above the world below as he dries his tears with the harsh wind that bites at his face.

He will not return here for a long, long time.

He doesn’t think he would even be able to bring himself to if he tried.

Dream brushes a stray leaf off his shoulder as he steps over a root, his eyes focused on the bushes before him. A bird chirps as he strolls past a tree, nestling further into its nest as he ducks under the branch. He smiles at the sight, a deep fondness seeping into his heart as he lets his hand run over the tree’s hard bark.

He recognizes this forest—these trees. He knows this sky, has leapt over these rocks. He’s walked this path before.

It’s a shame he can’t remember how long it’s been since he last came here.

He hums a quiet melody to himself as he weaves a path between the trees, drawing nearer and nearer to the place he had been searching for with every passing second. He’s only a few steps away when a sound calls out to him—a sound that isn’t a part of the forest.

“Hello?”

Dream goes stock still, his heart coming to a screeching halt in his chest.

He knows that voice, too.

Sucking in a deep breath, he slowly steps forward, out into the entrance of the clearing. In front of the waterfall stands a silhouette he is absolutely positive he’s seen before—countless times before. Something tells him that he should leave, that he should run far, far away and disappear from view. But as he watches the silhouette take a tentative step toward him, his inhibitions fall away.

Warmth blossoms in the space between his lungs, all encompassing and full of grief as he opens his mouth.

“Hi.”

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