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moremaybank · 2 years

Note

Can you do a Christmas smut with Klaus X witch reader and Klaus fucks her out of jealousy/anger. Also, can he tie her up with his own black suit tie? Love your work! <3

TINSEL & TIES — k.m

pairing klaus mikaelson x fem!witch!reader

summary after an argument, you try to make klaus jealous. in return, klaus has to let you know just how wrong that decision was.

warnings 18+, unprotected sex, bdsm (reader is tied, gagged and restrained), clit-slapping, orgasm denial, face-fucking, cum-swallowing, klaus being tied and gagged at the end, i think that’s it

author's note merry (belated) christmas. this is six days late, but who’s counting? (me. i’m counting. and the guilt is immeasurable) but anyways please enjoy :)

klaus masterlist

the compound looked magical.

warm white lights were strung carefully around the staircases alongside garland that complimented the extravagant christmas tree. poinsettias were laced through the lights and garland. mistletoe hung in strategic locations, a part of klaus's holiday shenanigans. the sweet aroma of baked holiday goods roamed through the air, and fake snow — provided by a spell of your own making — was littered everywhere, making it feel like a white christmas.

everything was perfect, courtesy of you. so it really was a shame that you didn't get the opportunity to enjoy it.

"you're being ridiculous! i put this entire party together, down to every last ornament hanging on that gorgeous tree downstairs. i'm not gonna sit out on my favourite holiday just because you're being paranoid!"

klaus sighed in exasperation, "i'm not being paranoid! i'm playing it safe. excuse me for trying to protect you from the countless enemies i have roaming about this city."

"well, whose fault is that? all you've done over the thousand years you've walked on this earth is turn everyone against you. this is your own fault. i don't deserve to be punished for your mistakes, klaus!"

klaus takes a step closer to you, the aggravation growing more apparent as the seconds ticked by.

"i'd hardly consider taking preventative measures to ensure your safety to be a punishment, y/n."

you rolled your eyes. it was a regular occurrence for klaus to treat you as if you were helpless and weak. it irked you to your core, and tonight, you'd had enough.

"i am so sick and tired of you breathing down my neck. you seem to forget that i can protect myself against anyone who dares to come at me. i am one of the most powerful witches this city has ever seen. i don't need you to babysit me, and i certainly don't need you to treat me as if i'm defenceless."

you shoved past him, shoulder hitting against his as you tried to storm out of your shared bedroom. klaus's hand clasped around your elbow, though, preventing you from making your escape.

"and just where do you think you're going?" klaus questioned, giving you a look of warning.

"downstairs. who knows, maybe i'll meet someone who respects me enough to let me fight my own battles. it'd be ten times better than having my boyfriend treat me like a child," you respond bitterly, "and maybe they'll also be able to make me come, unlike some people here."

it was a low blow and an untruthful one at that, but you couldn't bring yourself to care. it was exhausting having the person you love to act as if you were a burden. and on top of that, it's even worse when you feel as though they constantly undermine your strength.

so, there you were, flirting with a random party-goer who had absolutely no chance with you.

to be quite frank, what you really wanted to do was spend time with klaus. you wanted to dance with him, your bodies pressed close as you felt his undead heartbeat thump against your living one. to feel his hand stroke the small of your back as you two whispered sweet nothings to each other. to bask in the simple intimacy of holding him close to you. but he'd spoiled your mood, and in turn, you refused to be near him.

klaus's eyes had been daggering you two all night, no doubt making good use of his vampire-enhanced hearing abilities as he eavesdropped on your shameless teasing as the hours went by.

he was angry with you, there was no question, but all he could think about was that handsome stranger kissing you in places only klaus had kissed. touching you in places only klaus had touched. breaking you down until you were a mess in his arms as you cried out his name. it was taking everything in him to not tear his heart out of that man's chest and serve it to you on a silver platter.

klaus watched as you stroked the man's arm, fingers lingering over the material of his far less fancy suit as you laughed at his poor excuse of a joke. klaus then slammed his empty glass down on the bar after he chugged the contents of it down his throat, walking over you to and clutching your arm.

"if you don't back off my girl within the next five seconds, your head will be on a spike for everyone here to see. understand?"

the man gulped, nodding without a word before disappearing into the crowd.

you turned to klaus, irritated beyond measure. he was causing a scene — a pointless one — all because of the jealousy that coursed through his veins. before you had a chance to say anything, klaus was dragging you out of the party and up the stairs. once you two had reached your bedroom, he slammed the door and shoved you against it.

"you want to fight your own battles? to force me to watch you lead on some imbecile solely because you're angry with me? fine. that just means you'll take your punishment like a good girl, doesn't it?"

as angry as you were, klaus's words were soiling your panties as he stared down at you. his angry side in the bedroom had always been something you considered to be a blessing, and this time it was no different.

his hand came up to your neck, fingers squeezing your throat when you failed to answer, lost in your own thoughts. "you'd do well to answer me, sweetheart."

"yes, klaus. i will."

"good answer."

and with that, he spun you around, your front pushed flush against the wooden door as klaus's hands ripped the corset of your dress apart with one swift motion. your dress dropped to the floor, pooling around your high-heel-clad ankles. klaus's thick digits wrapped around your hip bones, digging into your skin as he pulled you against him. you could feel his length, hard and throbbing through the material of his suit pants, and it sent butterflies into your core. he was so close, yet so far, and it already had you reeling.

in a flash, you were on the bed, your back against the plush duvet as klaus towered over you. his fingers worked to remove the tie around his neck. when he was finished, he clasped your wrists together with one hand, drawing them to the headboard and securing them in place with the tie. he leaned back to admire his work.

your dress had done wonders for your cleavage, so you'd opted to go braless for the night. you'd also decided against panties because pre-argument-you had hoped to eliminate as many obstacles at the end of the night when klaus would inevitably have you at his mercy. in hindsight, you'd wished you'd worn a damn chastity belt to make things harder for him. your anger was diminishing slowly, but it was still present.

klaus's gaze drank in the sight of you, completely bare and exposed for him. he could sense your arousal from his place at the edge of the bed, and he wanted nothing more than to ravish you in every way possible. he wanted to fulfill your every desire; it was just the way he was. but he also wouldn't let you get away with your attitude and teasing so easily. he was still klaus. he relished in taking his revenge, and it was no different when it came to your treatment in the bedroom. especially when you pushed his buttons.

"i don't think your restrained wrists are enough for me. i do need to teach you a lesson after all."

"jealousy doesn't suit you, mister mikaelson."

"oh, darling. you haven't seen anything yet."

klaus disappeared into the closet, quickly finding three more neck-ties to bind you with. he returned, watching your brows furrow in confusion as he grabbed a hold of one of your ankles.

"as angry as i am, these shoes look gorgeous on you. i think we'd better leave them on," he spoke, bending your leg toward you as he tied your ankle to the headboard. he did the same to the other, and when he got to the last remaining tie, he tied it around the back of your head, gagging you.

the sight of you tied up, your body practically bent in half with each of your legs on either side of your restrained wrists, ready to be used by him...it was all too much. he could feel the madness, the dominant and possessive side of him fully present.

"here's what's going to happen. you'll let me fuck you just the way i want to without using any magic whatsoever to your advantage. disobey me, and you won't get to come tonight. are we clear?"

you gave him a glare, nodding angrily at him. he had you bound and gagged, for christ's sake. it was all you could do.

"good."

klaus began to strip himself of the remaining pieces of his suit, hearing each thump of your heart grow louder and louder as he revealed every inch of his bare skin to you. he climbed back on top of you, fully exposed as his flesh pressed against yours.

goosebumps spread over your skin in anticipation as his lips adorned your neck, nibbling harshly as he sucked love bites into your skin. you tried to hiss through the gag that kept your mouth open wide but to no avail. all you could manage was to pant heavily at the contact. you ached to touch him. to run your hands through his curls. to claw at the flesh of his back. to wrap your legs around his hips and tug his bottom half further into yours as he expressed his love to you through his actions. but alas, you couldn't.

as if he read your mind, his hips ground into your exposed and dripping core. the tip of his length brushed past your entrance, both of you jerking at the near intrusion.

"i'm going to wreck you. i want you to regret even conjuring the thought of someone making you come as hard as i do. we both know that no one could ever compare to me."

his lips trailed down your chest, leaving more love bites across your bare chest. he sucked one of your nipples into his mouth, tongue flicking it as he created the same motion on the other with his fingers. your chest heaved, already so far gone.

unbeknownst to you, he sunk his tip inside of you, the relief not quite enough to satiate your yearning for him. then, he buried himself inside of you with a harsh slam of his hips. you whimpered around the gag as he started to move mercilessly, leaving you no time to adjust to his monstrous cock.

"bloody hell, that mouth of yours never fails to get you into trouble, but without it, i wouldn't be able to rip you apart until you're begging for mercy."

klaus's teeth were gritted, the anger bleeding through his expressions and rough actions. his hand found your throat, fingers squeezing as he rutted into you deeper and harsher than ever before. his vampire abilities were on his side now more than ever, the speed of his thrusts quite literally inhumane.

"you're mine. mine to protect, and to love, and to fuck. mine to punish as i see fit. and the next time you force me to watch you flirt with a man who could never own you like i do, i'll do a whole lot more than just tie you up."

his tone was raspy, coated with jealousy but also with a certain want, and it made your toes curl as you took all of him inside of you again and again.

your wrists and ankles felt ached already, the fabric of the ties rubbing your skin raw and leaving behind red marks around them. but you didn't care. you couldn't focus on anything else as klaus fucked your brains out, watching him angrily mutter things to himself as he pulled your body against his to meet his movements. immense pleasure coursed through you as klaus's cock plunged deep into your core.

klaus brought a hand down to your lower stomach, pressing down as he thrusted and thrusted. you could feel every ridge and vein that adorned his length rub against that sweet spot inside of you. your legs were trembling on either side of you, as much as they could while being bound to the headboard.

without warning, he slapped your clit harshly as he fucked you, your hips jerking at the sudden strike. your walls clamped down on his length as if to keep him inside, and your cream began to coat klaus's cock. you hadn't come yet, but you were damn close, and klaus knew that.

"always so responsive. you drive me absolutely mad, did you know that?" he spoke, his hand slapping your clit again repeatedly. you were writhing beneath him, though you were folded and restrained. klaus, who had memorized all your tells when it came to you reaching your high, knew that you were right on the brink, and he smirked as he pulled out of you. "it's too bad that you won't get to come tonight."

he then yanked on the tie that gagged you, casting it behind him as he crawled on top of you. in a matter of seconds, his hand was sliding his aching member down your throat. your mouth was stuffed with him, even though it was still sore from the tie. the corners of your lips burned as he began to fuck your face, balls slapping against your chin as he forced you to take all of him down your airway.

tears brimmed in your eyes as he now held your head in place with both of his hands, and you gagged around him. you struggled for air, but you couldn't bring yourself to care as you looked up at klaus with your big doe eyes.

he was biting his lip, fingers threading through your hair and tugging as he brought himself to his orgasm. he let out a groan, his hips starting to stutter as he let the hot ropes of his cum slide down the back of your throat. you could see his chest heaving up and down as he tried to catch his breath, and he pulled out of you slowly. he looked down at you once more, his thumb stroking over your wet lips.

he went to speak, but he was cut off when he heard you breathe out what sounded like a spell. he knew he'd heard you correctly when the ties that bound you to the bed gave out instantly. your limbs sprang free, and as soon as you could, you pushed klaus beneath you and used your magic to restrain his own hands. you also gagged him with the tie he'd used on your mouth, and you could see the fury in his eyes.

he mumbled something through the tie, much like you had earlier, and his frustration bled through his barely-formed words.

“i could tell you really needed that, so i let you have your fun. but now…” you paused, your hand coming up to his throat, “it’s my turn to take what i want.”

klaus tag list (join here!): @princess-charming-01 @maybankslover @trenchmaniac @techlipse @the-kaya-aa @catmikaelson20 @hopesdadswife @amournoir @skydisneylover @kittyqrt @Iluvniklaus @diyabhanushali1 @your_best_hoe

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oliversrarebooks · 8 months

Text

Febuwhump Day 1: Helpless

tw: forced drugging, restraints, medical whump, forced brain surgery, implied mind control, stun weapon

It was like hitting a brick wall.

One minute, Toshiro was slamming into henchman after henchman, taking them out at a speed faster than the human mind could comprehend. The next minute, his face was rapidly meeting the floor.

His ears were ringing, his vision blurring as his eyes threatened to close on him. His muscles were weak, and it was if someone had pulled the plug on the nerves connecting his brain to his body. The tile floor was cold against his cheek as he fell to the floor with an embarrassing thump, as gracefully as a sack of potatoes, and equally able to move.

Some kind of stun gun. Stunning... thing. Vibrations. His newly fogged mind tried to reason through the situation. He was in the middle of Dr. Moon's lair, and although he'd cut a wide swath through her armored goons and lab interns, he hadn't spotted the good doctor herself yet.

Which meant that this was probably all a trap, and he had obligingly raced into it at top speed.

Fuck. Whatever that weapon was had rendered him helpless. Unless he could recover quickly, he'd be screwed.

He struggled to regain his bearings through the dizziness, managing to force his weakened arms to push him up off the floor, when the low, strong vibrations racked his body again and knocked his tenuous grasp on control far away.

"Well, now, I'd call that experiment a rousing success," said a familiar and infuriatingly smug voice.

Toshiro struggled to focus on the clean white sneakers that stepped in front of his face. Dr. Moon crouched down in front of him, grabbing his chin and directing his blurred gaze into hers.

"Did you enjoy it as well?"

"Fffff..." Toshiro tried to get his mouth to cooperate enough to at least tell her to fuck off.

"Fantastic? Fabulous? Is that what you're trying to say? I think that's what you're trying to say," she said, nonchalantly snapping thick metal restraints on Toshiro's wrists.

Oh, this situation was getting better and better, wasn't it? He could probably use his supersonic vibration to break these cuffs, but it would take some time, and that was at full power, which he most certainly was not. He was still stunned enough that he felt like he might pass out at any moment.

"Don't worry, you're in good hands now, my dear little hero," she said, running a hand through his hair. "Katie, can you get my guest his little party favor?"

A young woman in a lab coat looked confused by the request. "Party favor...?"

Dr. Moon sighed. "The IV. I'm talking about the IV I had you prepare."

"Oh, yes!" she said. "Right away, doctor."

"And let's make him more comfortable! Can two of you get him onto the surgical table?"

"Yes, doctor."

IV drugs? Surgical table? Toshiro's blood ran cold. What the hell was she planning? Her experiments had roughed him up many a time, but she'd never done anything like this.

"Whaaaa..." he slurred pathetically, flopping like a dead fish as a couple of henchmen lifted him onto a padded table. He was still too numb and dazed to fight, and his window of escape seemed to rapidly be coming to a close. As a couple of scrawny scientists effortlessly held him down on the table -- humiliating enough that his embarrassment fought with his growing fear -- Katie returned with a large bag of translucent blue liquid on an IV pole.

"Oh, you're going to just love this, Toshiro," Dr. Moon said, brandishing the IV line's needle with theatrical flair. "You never get enough breaks, do you? I'm about to give you a nice long one."

Toshiro couldn't help his composure breaking slightly. It was one thing to be injured while fighting, or even to be captured and tortured. It was another thing entirely to be rendered unconscious, completely defenseless against whatever the mad scientist wanted to do with him.

"No need to look so upset. This won't hurt at all. You're just going to get very, very sleepy. You'll be just a bit drowsy and slow for the next, oh, let's say the next while. I wouldn't operate any heavy machinery."

She was bringing that IV needle closer to his elbow. He summoned all of his strength to try and pull away, knowing that as soon as he had that drug pumping into his body, it'd all be over. Unfortunately, his muscles were still largely unresponsive from the double stun just a few minutes ago.

Damn it, he had to -- !

The doctor effortlessly got the IV into his vein with a practiced hand, taping it down securely. He looked on in horror as the light blue liquid snaked down the tube and into his arm, willing the drug to somehow stop before it reached him. His arm felt cold and heavy at the injection site as the sedative began to flow freely into his system.

"That should kick in long before you get your bearings from my wonderful stun weapon," she said, stroking his cheek and looking down at him with malicious glee. "And I want to drink every last drop of your fear as you go under."

Toshiro glared as best as he could, testing his powers. Maybe if he could get his supersonic speed working, he could dislodge the IV from his elbow before he absorbed too much of the drug. His fast metabolism meant it took a lot to put him down, anyway.

He was already so groggy from being stunned, and so focused on forcing his uncooperative body to move, that he didn't even notice the buzzing in the back of his skull until it was too late. In seconds, the buzzing transformed into a deep drowsiness, muffling his thoughts like a blanket of fresh-fallen snow, draining him of energy, making his eyelids droop.

"And there it is!" said Dr. Moon with a cackle. "Isn't that the most delicious feeling of helplessness? You look so tired already. Don't fight it, now. Just let my beautiful drugs sing you to sleep. A nice little lullaby..."

Toshiro's efforts to try to shake the IV off had turned into a desperate struggle against the urge to give in and go to sleep. He was so exhausted, and he could feel his mind zoning in and out, his eyelids threatening to close. But he couldn't give in.

"Don't worry, you'll be sedated, but not entirely unconscious. We can't have you fully under for brain surgery, you know."

The shock of adrenaline forced his eyes back open. Fuck. Anything but that.

"No need to panic, it's not a lobotomy. We don't use ugly words like that here. And my methods are far more precise," she said, as Toshiro's heart raced. "I'm just going to... slow you down. Make you more malleable. Easily influenced, let's say. And at only a small cost to your intelligence."

His half-asleep mind woke up enough to panic. Suddenly, he could move. He felt strength in his arm again, enough strength to try and shake free of the IV line that would be the end of him.

He had to get it out at any cost. If he didn't, when he next woke up, he might be some stupefied henchman to his archnemesis, his faculties cut out and left on the floor of her lair. A fate far worse than death -- at least in death, he'd be remembered as a hero. Not remembered as a drooling, dull-witted minion who used to be a hero, cut down by one of his former comrades.

No, he couldn't allow that.

His powers responded, and he willed his super speed to vibrate his arm hard enough to loosen the tape, to dislodge the needle. As soon as he got rid of the threat of the drug, he could break free of the bonds and escape.

"Oh, dear," said Dr. Moon. "Katie, be a dear and take the fight out of our guest again."

Toshiro's eyes widened just before he felt the stun weapon rumble through his body. His hold over his power slipped, his limbs sinking back onto the table. Disoriented and unable to move, the sedative quickly took hold of him once again.

"There, there." The doctor replaced the tape on the IV line. "Just relax, go to sleep, and it will all be over soon. Poor, helpless hero."

He groaned weakly, Dr. Moon's evil grin fading from sight as his vision tunneled.

"He's almost out. Finish preparation in the operating room," she said over her shoulder, before turning back to him. She leaned in close and whispered in his ear, running a hand through his hair. "If all goes well, you won't be waking up as yourself ever again," she cooed. "You're going to go to sleep, and I'm going to win."

Her voice sounded muffled, from far away, and his tongue was too thick and clumsy to respond back.

"Go to sleep. Just go to sleep..."

----

I've been struggling a bit with writing and the Febuwhump prompts looked delicious, so I decided to do a few of them!

New Bookseller chapter soon, promise.

#febuwhump #febuwhump2024 #febuwhumpday1 #helpless #whump #whump writing #superhero whump #medical whump #laboratory whump #drugged #sedation #capture

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fearyandear · 2 years

Text

Not Who You’re Supposed To Be (Yandere! Revolutionary Servant POV x Captured Princess Y/N)

They took the nobles. Every last one. Most had tried desperately to escape. To blend in with the commoners, or to off themselves with dignity. Some slipped through, but in three days' time, the most important figures had been rounded up like hogs.

Ready to be slaughtered.

Among the first was the 12th princess. The attackers that burst to her room noted how calm she appeared, sitting on her chair with her favorite wine in hand. She'd given them a smile and told them they did a good job.

She was sent to the dungeons with the rest of her family.

Saber knew he shouldn't face her. What was done was done. She had served her purpose as his master, and now, he was free from her command. He was free.

And yet, he grimaced every time he passed the heavily guarded chambers to the underground. They beckoned him.

Only a day was left until the executions. They would be public and humiliating. The best show the country would ever get. And she would be a part of it.

He knew going down would be a mistake. He knew, as much as he denied it, that he'd regret it. That seeing her look at him after his betrayal... would be able to break him.

And still, that night, he ventured.

He used the guards' blindspots. This was a... private affair. He didn't want to explain this to the others. The dungeons creaked and wails prevailed. Heavy doors kept him from seeing their faces. But he had already memorized everyone's place, so he skipped to the end of a row. When he reached her cell, he was surprised by its stillness. Knowing her, she would have been one of the wailers. Her pampered lifestyle meant she'd get aches from the floor of her cell.

A thought targeted him, fast and quick.

What if she's sick? Already dead?

He fumbled with the lock, his initial fear was replaced with the anxiety to check. A swing of the door later, and his terror vanished.

She was standing, facing the outside on the small barred gutter with her head resting in her arms. She hummed as the door closed.

"Is that my little shadow?" She turned to look at him. She had expected him.

Knowing this made him feel conflicted.

Why wasn't she crying? Why did she look... content?

She wasn't being herself.

"You did it." She grinned. "You succeeded. I'm so proud of you!"

She came at him fast. He braced himself. Punches. Thrashing. A slap. Something would make contact, surely this would be her petty litte revenge but-

No.

An embrace.

It felt the same as others she had given him.

She hugged him completely, wholeheartedly nestled into his chest.

And she repeated herself.

"I'm so proud!"

He hated this outcome.

He pushed her. She stumbled but didn't fall.

"You... knew?"

"Of course!"

"How??"

She laughed. It was genuine and hearty, with a snort at the end.

"Saber... I've always known."

What the hell was she talking about.

"I... need you to explain."

She nodded. An explanation of everything was owed. A long one. She theatrically sat in the only bench available, and smoothed her dress.

"I am not a good person, Saber. You of all people know well my wickedness." She held a cheek with a hand. "I knew of the people suffering. I knew that I had the power to stop some of it. But... well, I'm lazy, Saber. I'm lazy and... It was easier not to. To believe that as the least favorite, I couldn't do a thing.... So I'd planned on living life quietly, sending prayers for the poor.

But then they gave me you."

She gazed at him. Met his eyes. They were warm and deep and welcoming. The same eyes as the day he had met her.

"You hated me. You hated everything about us, of course, but serving me especially... you directed it towards this foolish, stubborn princess. And you know what? I found you so admirable for that! You were a person who would change the world! And you'd make it so much better for everyone! So strong, so committed, so intelligent! Oh Saber! You're wonderful!"

Her grin brought him back to annoyance. There was an expression he finally recognized. The one he always felt was patronizing... but... perhaps it had never been. Her words...

Wait-

"So you knew about my plan to betray you? Did you recognize then... my disguise- those nights!"

His cheeks burned. The princess was hysterical.

"Saaabeeer, I knew, I knew! And I liked it. I always loved your touch, Saber. I was so happy too. You saved me from the anxiety of parties and people that I hate... I treasured those moments filled with passion..."

Both cheeks were in her hands now. Saber felt the need to explain himself.

"Those weren't supposed to happen... I had lost myself in the alcohol! I wouldn't have-"

"Oh. I know Saber. It's okay!" Her reassurance quieted him. "Your spite never went away. I'd never delude myself into thinking otherwise! You had a goal. It was just... the wine."

There was a pause. He couldn't look her in the eye.

The alcohol. He'd never drunk any, and... if she had known it was him, she may have been sober enough to know that too. But she was going along for him. He felt ashamed.

"I'm just a dumb princess."

He looked back up.

"I knew that's all I would be. But if I could help you... I thought, at least that'd be good for you. So, I played my part. I never paid attention in my classes. I let you do my homework for me. I made you memorize the secret passageways for dumb errands.... I blabbed about all the gossip I could gather at those stupid parties. And everything fell into place."

She shook a bit. He almost took a step towards her. He was getting distracted. Pieces were falling into place...

"You never once disappointed me. Or the people. You're a hero, Saber! You'll be legendary."

She got back up. He took a better look at her now. Her unkept hair. Her dress had torn and become dirty from sweeping the floor. Her eyes showed her lack of sleep, and the moon made her skin deathly.

But she was still the girl chained to him. She was still the girl with eyes that were glued to him, never out of malice but always out of love.

She had loved him.

She still loved him.

"Princess..."

"When will I be killed?"

His blood ran cold. Reality came flooding back..

"I heard the guards talking about an execution. But I never got the date... and it's been..." She looked to the wall. Three little notches had been made.

"Three days. When will the day be? How much longer will I have to stay here?"

Saber was back to feeling lost.

"I... I don't know."

He lied.

It would be tomorrow.

The princess crossed her arms. She blew out a breath like she always does when she's annoyed.

"Well, I hope it's soon. And I hope you can be the one to do it."

"Me?"

His voice almost cracked. Now she looked stunned.

"Of course you, you jerk! Don't tell me you weren't planning on doing me in yourself! With those eyes? With that built up grudge? I won't have it any other way! It has to be you!"

She got right up to his face. The usually warm eyes were cold. This was a demand. He hated when she did this.

But his usual defiance couldn't be mustered now for some reason...

He couldn't find any bite at all.

He felt his shoulders slump.

Killing her...

"Why are you so okay with this? Why did you let this happen?"

The flame of anger was welling up inside again.

"You could have stopped me. You could have- helped me! If I had known-"

She laughed again. "What do you mean? You hated me! You still hate me! Telling you I'm helping you would've only made you despise me more. Or it'd make you seem unreliable to the others on your side. We nobles are the enemy. Why would they trust in me?"

She shrugged.

"Theres no use in thinking about what could have been. What's done is done."

What's done is done.

"My fate would have been the same. For a better tomorrow with no future royal blood, we will all need to be killed."

No mercy was their rule.

Saber recalled the plan. The guillotine. The space made for the heads and bodies, each to be separated. And to be paraded around.

He couldn't help himself from reaching for her. Softly, he touched her neck.

"So, a beheading?" She had guessed.

It dawned on him how clever she actually was.

He had never noticed.

"Well," Her hand brushed over his. She held it firmly there and was back to meeting his eyes. "I'm glad you came to visit. And I hope you're getting everything you ever wanted."

How can she say such things without an ounce of malice?

He left her cell with her words in his heart. What is it that he wants? The moon was still high. The execution would be in the morning. Her place in line would be near the middle, with the lesser nobles.

She'd be surrounded by the people that mocked her. To die with those she hated.

The hand that touched her neck burned.

He could kill her now.

Surely that'd be preferable?

He imagined it. Squeezing her neck. Watching her eyes bulge. No longer would they smile.

He wanted to cut off his hand.

He can't.

He needed another plan.

He made his way to the servant quarters.

Tonight, he would be a villain.

(Doodles of this story found here!)

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igncrxntripley · 1 year

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So I have a bunch of storm coming in. I don't know if you are comfortable can I have a female who has a fear of thunder and Rhea Ripley "comforting" female!reader by making reader focusing on Rhea?

headcanons: thunderstorms

a/n: making this into headcanons bc i haven't done any for rhea yet, also i hope this is what you were looking for!!

mentions: SFW, fear of thunderstorms, mentions of thunder/rain/wind, use of rhea's real name, reader’s gender isn’t specific

taglist: @ripleyswhore @babybatlover @thesithdiaries @auburnwrites @neptune-lover @i-have-issues-lol @ares-athena @bunnysmyname

demi wasn't scared of much - she threw herself through tables and hit people for a living, she didn't have time to be scared of something like a thunderstorm; but she knows when her partner is scared of something and she immediately is going to jump into action to make things better.

with the changing seasons and temperamental weather, thunderstorms were getting to be a more common ocurrence and were your actual nightmare. they were so loud and scary, and sometimes it felt like no matter what you did nothing eased the fear of the storms.

your girlfriend, demi, took quick notice of this the first time a storm rolled through during your relationship. she spent the majority of the time calming you down and didn't even think twice about getting you to focus on her instead of what was going on outside.

"baby, look! i made a blanket fort! i have all the snacks and a movie, and our chargers in case the power goes out, and i even grabbed those headphones in case you need them again!'

there's no doubt you and demi are spending the entire storm in that exact fort; she only used the best and thickest blankets in the entire house so it covered up the sound a little better, and the two of you would be huddled under another blanket for an extra sense of security.

i'd be a fool if i didn't specify that the two best guard dogs in the world, barry and luna, are protecting the fort through the storm to make sure both you and demi were safe.

with each crack of thunder, your body jumping and a quiet whimper leaving your lips, demi's arms would tighten around your body and she'd whisper the sweetest things she could manage; "shh, i'm here. we're safe right here in the house, yeah?"

you had to give demi credit, as she was trying her hardest to make sure you were feeling safe and comfortable. but she had no clue how deep this fear of thunder really went, and she knew she needed to start getting more creative.

the next time the thunder rolled, demi could see the tears building up in your eyes. it didn't help that the power was flickering and the wind was picking up outside. but she was determined to make sure you were okay throughout the rest of this storm, and she decided that she needed to go back to basics.

demi would turn you in her arms so you faced her, only able to look into her stunning eyes as she tightened the blanket around your bodies. what she said next took you by surprise, but it most definitely made you focus on anything other than the storm outside.

"you ever have that one thing as a kid you thought you were really good at but in reality you were just a kid and your parents wanted to keep your confidence up and made you think you were good at it?" she'd ask with a smile, taking amusement in the somewhat shocked look on your face.

demi wasn't done there; "in year 7 there was a talent show at school and i was convinced that i needed to showcase my insane hoola-hooping abilities." demi would smirk, her fingers drawing patterns on your back as she held you close.

she'd continue to go on about these silly stories, holding you close the entire time and smiling every time you giggled at her. demi's tactics work so well that you don't even notice the storm wrapping up outside and the only remnants being some light rain and wind.

the terror on your face was replaced by shock when you looked at demi, and she would giggle at you as if she'd accomplished the biggest thing possible. "i told you we'd get through the storm."

needless to say, every thunderstorm after this was not nearly as scary as they used to be - that is, as long as demi was home.

#wwe imagine #wwe x reader #wwe rhea ripley #rhea ripley #rhea ripley headcanons #rhea ripley x reader #rhea ripley imagine #{:requests:}#{:headcanons:}#{:rhea ripley:}

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stitching-in-time · 2 months

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Voyager rewatch s4 ep9: Year of Hell pt 2

I definitely haven't seen this one since it first aired, because the only things I remember from it were Janeway and Tuvok hugging, and the ship crashing. Literally everything else in this was like new to me, which was completely wild to experience after more than two decades.

Why I didn't rewatch it again in all this time, I don't know- I remember thinking 'ugh' whenever I'd see it on a rerun and flip channels, but it's actually a lot better than I gave it credit for??? Maybe as a kid all the sad, scary stuff the crew goes through just made more of a negative impression on me, and I know I would have been very worried that somebody would get killed off back then. I had a deeper attachment to Star Trek characters than any other shows I watched, so the stakes always felt a little bit higher in Star Trek, versus other shows I didn't care about as much.

But anyway, I was clearly way too young to realize how hot the whole crew was yet, because I didn't remember the part where Chakotay and Tom are aboard the Krenim timeship at all. And oh boy, watching it as an adult? with Tom in that costume with that v-neck top? Incredibly distracting. Like, excuse me sir, how dare you be that pretty?? All tall and blonde and blue eyed with your tousled hair and your unbuttoned shirt?? Illegal levels of hotness!!! go to jail for 1000 years!!!

But aside from making my fangirl brain go brrrr every time Tom appears on screen, I do think the scenes on the ship with the Krenim bad guy, Annorax, were very interesting and well done. We learn that Chakotay and Tom have been held captive there, in solitary confinement, for two months, before Annorax decides to let them out. He brings them to have dinner with him in an attempt to convince them to work with him to help him get his timeline back, and restore Voyager in the process. Tom is pissed off and skeptical, but Chakotay plays it more diplomatically, and tries to hear Annorax out. Annorax does a convincing job of presenting himself as cultured and reasonable, until he tells them that the little feast he's treating them to is actually a macabre repast made up of the last existing delicacies from civilizations he's erased from existence. He tells them how he's been manipulating the timeline with the time weapon on his ship for 200 years, existing outside of normal time, trying to get the calculations right to bring the entire Krenim empire back, like some sort of Flying Dutchman in space. Chakotay and Tom are horrified, and Tom won't hear of helping him, guessing that the only reason Annorax is asking them is because he hasn't been able to find and destroy Voyager yet. He storms out, but Chakotay stays, hoping there might be a way to use the time weapon in a less violent way to accomplish what Annorax proposed.

Meanwhile, back on Voyager, the seven remaining crew members are fighting tooth and claw to keep the ship together, hiding in a nebula to avoid the Krenim and try to repair their failing systems. Janeway, as usual, powers through it all by throwing herself into work, rarely eating or sleeping, risking her life time and again, and ignoring doctor's orders to rest when she gets sick or injured. (She has a rare moment of sentiment when she finds the watch Chakotay gave her still in his quarters, despite her order to recycle it. She doesn't know of he's alive or dead at this point, so she's too moved to be angry, and she picks it up, and puts it on her belt, like a good luck charm.) The Doctor tries to relieve her of command when he thinks she's pushing herself too far, but Janeway hits him with the reality that she can just say no- they have no security officers, they have no brig, no energy for more forcefields- he can't enforce any orders on anyone. He tells her he'll record her refusal in his log, and that she could face a court-martial for disobeying, to which she responds with a wry smile that they'd have to get home before she could ever face a court martial, and she's the one who's going to get them home, by continuing to work. Even making it out alive to face a court martial would be nice for her, compared to what they're going through. She walks off, leaving the Doctor to contemplate his abstract principles, while she, as always, is forced by necessity to do the real, hard work to hold things together and shoulder the responsibilty for the ship and crew, alone.

Back on the Krenim ship, Chakotay works with Annorax to learn how to use his time weapon, and Tom buddies up to the crew, trying to gather what info he can from them that might be useful against Annorax. He tells Chakotay the crew are unhappy in their endless mission, and that they could be convinced to mutiny against Annorax with their help. Chakotay says no, and wants to try to use the time weapon, which Tom disagrees with, and they come pretty close to having a fistfight over it, since Tom (rightly) thinks Annorax is a maniac, and that Chakotay has been swayed over to Annorax's side. Whether Chakotay actually has been swayed or not is kind of open to interpretation- Annorax certainly was giving him a lot of seductive speeches about what an art form the manipulation of time can be, and Chakotay seems to earnestly believe he can find a way to use it for good. And if he was actually just playing a long game, and trying to earn Annorax's trust so they can get the better of him, he absolutely should have told that to Tom, rather than letting him think he's sympathizing with the enemy, and thus giving him a good reason to not follow his orders. At any rate, Chakotay seems to finally realize that Annorax is a madman who can't be reasoned with once he learns that his centuries of meddling with the timeline stem from accidentally erasing his own family in one of his attacks, and that everything he's been doing has been a desperate attempt to get them back. They watch in horror as he uses the time weapon to erase an entire planet, and Tom finally convinces Chakotay to go with his plan. Tom gets his Krenim friend to let him send a message to Voyager, and to help them shut down the time weapon so Voyager can attack.

By the time Voyager receives Tom's message, Janeway has assembled a small fleet of allies to stand against the Krenim- Voyager is nearly crippled, so she sends the rest of the crew to the alien ships, and stays behind on Voyager to coordinate the attack that now has a fighting chance, thanks to Tom's help. This is the scene I always remember, of Tuvok attempting to convince Janeway not to stay on a compromised Voyager to die. But Janeway waxes poetic about how a captain always goes down with the ship, and how Voyager is more than just a ship, it's their home, a part of their family that she can't abandon. Tuvok knows her too well to argue, so he gives her a Vulcan salute, and accepts a hug from her in return. Her face as he returns her embrace for one rare and probably final time, when she almost breaks down as she says goodbye to him, only to snap herself back to composure, to send him away in order to do what she has to do, is an absolutely devastating moment, and an incredibly subtle piece of acting from Kate Mulgrew.

Even standing alone on her wrecked ship, battered and filthy, with Chakotay's watch tucked into her belt, Janeway still exudes the air of a Captain, and leads the charge to the Krenim ship. (Which looks so much like Babylon 5! I honestly have to wonder whether it was intentional- I can't imagine anyone working on Star Trek wouldn't have been aware of that show, or what their space station looked like. Though whether it was a nod to them or a dig at them, I don't know.)

As soon as Annorax sees Voyager, he wants to destroy it, but his second in command holds fire long enough for Tom to take the time weapon offline. Even with regular weapons, Voyager is too damaged to fight back, so Janeway decides if she's going down, she'll take them with her. Only Kate Mulgrew could sell that incredibly cheesy 'time's up' line with so much conviction that I buy it completely. I get why her whole crew would die for her- I would die for her too. If you watch this show and still say you wouldn't die for her, you're lying. Janeway supremacy forever <3

Somehow, Janeway figures that taking out the timeship might reset the timeline, so she has her ships disengage their temporal shielding and rams Voyager into the Krenim ship, destoying them both.

And the timeline resets!! How? I have no idea! How did she know that would happen? I also have no idea! Would it have been nice if that theory were introduced into the script earlier, and played with a bit more so it didn't seem like a crazy last minute add-on that was too convenient to be true? Yeah! Am I mad enough about it that I'm gonna complain about it too much? No! Do I just enjoy the badass ferocity of Janeway ramming her ship into a bad guy's ship to save millions of lives, even if she has to risk her own to do it? HELL YEAH!!!

So we end up back on Voyager before the Year of Hell began- everything is pristine and lovely, and the crew is looking forward to their little opening celebration for the new astrometrics lab. A Krenim hails them, gives them a friendly warning that their territory is in dispute, and recommends going around their space for safety. Janeway thanks him, and sets a course to avoid their space. They go on their merry way, never knowing the year they endured in another timeline.

And the last scene is of Annorax, back at home, with his wife, going over his time manipulation research, and ignoring her until she insists the research can wait, and that he should have breakfast with her. He agrees, but his research is still there, and it's a chilling thought that without knowing the 200 years he spent trying to fix his mistake, he might make it all over again one day. (But seriously, in 200 years, he didn't figure out that blowing his ship up would reset the timeline and bring his wife back?! Like that's literally all he had to do?! But Janeway guessed that correctly in one split second hunch?! Not the best writing in the world, but hell, I'll give it a pass because Janeway badassery! I love you, my captain!!! No thoughts, just Janeway!!!)

Tl;dr: The ending wasn't as strong as the beginning, but it was an exciting ride, with some really fine moments. I won't be waiting another 20 some years to rewatch this again, I can tell you that!

#star trek: voyager #voyager rewatch #rewatching star trek #star trek voyager #star trek #captain janeway

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humunanunga · 7 months

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top surgery

The morning of the surgery, I woke up a few minutes before my first alarm clock. It was set for 6:00am, like the day before when I had to make sure I was dressed in time for the drive to my pre-op appointment a two-hour drive away. But my ride, my medical power of attorney, my secondhand family, had his alarm clock set for 6:15. So I waited until his went off too so he'd have a chance to brush his teeth before I washed the incision area one more time with the special cleanser. Forgetting I didn't need to wash my hair this time, since I already did the night before, my shower was shorter than planned, and so we still had time to idle before driving the scenic route to the surgery center.

More time to hype up my friends, and more time for them to hype me up.

9:30am finally arrived, and so had we. The door was still locked ten minutes later, so I called the office and the voice on the other end said they'd let the nurse know we were here. My driver and I were let in, I changed into the hospital gown, minutes passed as more doctors trickled in against the weekday morning traffic. They took my heart rate, my blood pressure, a urine sample, and the first doctor tried to install the IV needle into my left hand. She had difficulty chasing my vein, which can happen when patients have to abstain from food and drink before surgery. Needles didn't usually affect me, but hunger and dehydration probably made me more sensitive, because I did get woozy. The anesthesiologist ended up getting it done in a few quick motions on the right hand, taping it securely in place and running me through all the risks of anaesthesia and all the factors that made it more likely I'd wake up nauseous. And the surgeon quizzed me on the prescriptions she'd listed for me the day before, and what to do about the binder (leave it alone). At my request, my dad-in-spirit stepped out for a moment while she drew lines on my skin.

And then I was ready.

And finally, the surgeons were ready.

I was led into a spacious operating room, and I asked if I needed to strip down before getting on. They said I didn't, that they'd take care of that. So I stepped on, they covered my legs in a blanket since the room was chilly. I took note of their caps, one with a pig print on it and another with Carebears. I could hear a loud whirring from a machine somewhere out of my periphery while they finished hooking me up, putting an oxygen mask on me, telling me to take deep breaths.

They warned me earlier that the IV drip may sting, but I didn't feel that. What I did feel was the anaesthesia taking effect, so I said goodnight, I'll seeya later.

…

I remember going under. I remember a vague sense of the passage of time, like when you take a nap on the couch with the TV on but don't remember what you were thinking about whenever you wake up.

It took a lot of insistent pestering to wake me, and at first I thought it was my driver trying to wake me. But then I remembered where I was, and I started to respond. Everything felt heavy and cold, but someone put some kind of heater under my legs and it felt so good to warm up again. I was shivering intensely, but the doctors were patient and helped me into the soft pajamas I brought. Pajamas my roommate gave me.

The nausea never came, and when I had tomato soup for lunch and the potato soup for dinner, I couldn't imagine anything tasting better. I was able to take my first post-op selfie as promised on the way back to the hotel room, where one of my dear friends had sent me flowers. Everyone congragulated me, but once I made it back to the bed with the neck pillow, chest pillow and sleep mask from my roommate and her mother, I was only awake again to eat, drink, take pills or watch day become sunset become night.

And I felt so, so loved.

The the sutures holding my grafts in place and the (admittedly itchy) binding over them were removed this week, and the surgeon was delighted to see how well my nipples were healing this early on. I was still pretty tired from how early I had to wake up for the drive to my post-op appointment, but I was giddy seeing my bare chest in the mirror for the first time.

And, so, here I am now. Still under the care of my roomie, my friends and my family while I wait for mobility in my arms to come back. Able to shower again, as long as I follow instructions. Caring for the incision sites while they heal. Tingling the same way skin does when feeling comes back after escaping the cold. And safe from sweating into a binder through any more summers.

For transparency, it may be worth mentioning that I have a history of ideal health. Compared to my brother, my driver and my friends, I'm lucky that I haven't even had any side-effects to deal with. No post-anaesthesia high or nausea, no pain even when I tested out going off the prescriptions. But there's already enough horror stories out there to fearmonger transness with, or to prepare for all the risks and worst-case scenarios; so how about a happy ending to cleanse the palate with this time.

#top surgery #transneutral #transgender #gender #queer #medical #trypanophobia #dear diary #tldr

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the-smallest-star · 8 days

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"Why is hospital food so ropy, like... food thats meant to be solid is either mush or a rock." Patch sighed, glancing at Gritt. Though his brother seemed to be in his own little world, "You alright G?"

"Hm? Oh, yeah. I'm good." "Mhm... you might be the better liar of the two of us, but I see through you. Whats rattling in the ol' cranium?" "It doesn't matter, you need to focus on getting better." Gritt pushed back, trying to close off the subject.

Patch wasn't having that.

"My body fixes itself on its own clock, whether I want it to work faster or not. You're upset... and its not just cos of me." He reached over, prodding the superstar's head, "Tell me or I'll keep poking you." A few pokes was all it took, and Gritt took a deep breath. Patch wasn't going to drop it.

"... I dunno if I should of accepted being Baron." Gritt confessed, making the younger twin blink. "I accepted it for three reasons. I didn't want to loose my friends, I wanted to keep you and my family safe, and no one else was being offered it. Imps, Hellborn, they need a voice. But... I feel I accepted it for the wrong reasons, like I did it because I felt I had to. To do the right thing and look out for everybody. But I just... bleached myself to do it."

".... you want my honest opinion?" Patch asked, Gritt nodded in reply, "You shouldn't of accepted it. You're not a baron."

"I'm... not?"

"No, you're not. And no fancy title is going to change that." Patch continued, "You care about the people sure, you touch their souls with your music, and if you come across somebody who you can help, you will. Because you're a good person. But you're a free spirit, a wildfire that does what they want. Suppressing that and pushing yourself into a fitted suit is going to hurt you."

"But what can I do? I can't just quit. Who'll help hellborn? Who'll keep you safe, I-... I don't even know what I can do. You do charity events all the time with your friends, you used to cater royal banquets and know the decorum and shit, and... I'm not you."

Patch mulled it over, tail flicking, "... I mean... this is just an idea. Royalty is all about bloodline right? So shouldn't you be able to pass on the title to someone else? Stay as Gritt the rockstar. I could be Baron."

"You'd want to be Baron?" Gritt said, stunned at the suggestion. "Well I like royal festivals, I like fancy clothes and big palaces. I'd want to use power and influence if I had any to help fix things. And maybe some people would stop throwing gazpacho at me for being cold. Plus, no offense, I'm not still recovering from a lifetime of trauma. I've got a therapist, I'm as stubborn as you. And I've lived in Pride even longer than you, I know where its problems are for hellborn. I could still have a restaurant, annnd given you're my brother, it should keep the birdy happy if your friends want to talk to you and hang out as 'The Barons brother'. And it'd be a big fuckin' middle finger to Gillian for throwing out and disowning her 'Baron' son."

The... suggestion did make sense. While Patch's contributions were unnoticed, he really did focus on making Hell a better place for people. The first argument Gritt had made at the start; There were others who'd done more for Hell than he had.

Patch was Gritt's blood. Gritt could step down, let Patch take his place... if he could get royal approval. His brother was better suited to support hellborn on a royal level, Gritt knew this. Patch was good at holding his own in a battle of wits and words.

"... I'll talk to Lucifer."

#hazbin!verse #PatchtheImp #GritttheImp #themosthatedbeingg

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ineffectualdemon · 8 months

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I have a lot of deep seated anger about my shitty childhood but as I've gotten older and learned how to process it in healthier ways it's met but an equal amount of l bafflement and contempt

And by this I mean I don't understand why two grown adults constantly felt the need to prove to themselves that they were better, stronger, smarter, and/or had more power in any given situation than an actual child who was asking for help anyway

1. It's so very unnecessary. I wasn't trying to prove anything I just wanted to ask a question or try something or just exist. Like I literally at like 6 told my dad I felt like I was the only person who wasn't allowed to be a bad mood or show that they were unhappy and he felt it necessary to lean down to tell me: "Shit rolls down hill"

Which is just a weird and unnecessary thing to say in that situations as a well as mean thing to say. Like why do that? Because it made you feel more powerful than a 6 year old that was already crying? That's so pathetic of him

2. It's so much more effort to be a dick in a lot of these situations. Like I'd ask my mom to proofread my essay (I learned to stop doing this) and instead of marking mistakes and explaining what I did wrong she would point to something and make me tell her. When I didn't know. So I would have to guess. This would take HOURS.

If she didn't want to proofread my essays I had other options I was happy to take

However she often demanded to proofread and she would just get increasingly smug when I wouldn't be able to tell her where I went wrong. "Oh she wanted you to figure it out for yourself so you'd learn it better" all I learned is if I asked her for help she'd be mean and make me feel stupid.

I now read over my kids essays. I tell them the corrections or why think some thing need to be changed. But I also praise them for what they do well. My kid says they know why when they haven't done as well because I start with "So, it's not your best." And then say something I liked before giving all my corrections. But proofreading my kids essays takes like 20 minutes at most to read through and mark and another 10 to 15 to go over the comments I've left

Making me suffer for hours was just a waste of time and effort as well as mean

And these are two minor examples because I didn't want to take about the worse ones but they did all this stuff to prove they were better than actual children and I'm like: "Wow. You're both pathetic"

Like how sad and loser is that? To hang your self worth at proving you have more power than a 6 year old

What a sad sack of shit

#not safe for esmes #the saga of my crappy parents #childhood trauma #personal #vent

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fictionkinfessions · 1 month

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Alright. Here goes. Long post ahead.

Leo. Sweet, beautiful, tender hearted little Leo. I didn't value you enough. I should have taken more time to look out for you and make sure you were okay. I should have been a better friend. We all should have been. I miss you. I should have done more. I should have let you feel safe enough to open up to me. Festus shouldn't have been your only form of security. You risked your life for us, said it was for Calypso, and then she didn't even truly value how big of a heart you really had. And I could see that it hurt you, but I didn't do enough to be there when you felt most alone. I'm sorry. Please let me back in. I'm looking for you just as much as anyone else in the Seven. I miss the companionship. Our friendship reminded me that we were still mortal, still had vulnerabilities, still had parts of us that just needed to feel human with each other. You were one of the things that kept me human. Thank you.

Piper. My fiesty little dove. I wish I could remember more about you. Everything is a blurr, just like it was back when we first met. I am so, so sorry that even now, people still paint you as something you're not. This fandom still tries to shape you into a narrative instead of letting you just be your authentic self. The biphobia that people have about headcanons of you and I is disgusting, and I know you would probably feel the same. I don't blame you if you feel a need to step away from the fandom or stop looking for me as a result of any confusion or discomfort. I wish I'd been more loyal to you and helped you better process any of your feelings about your identity. Because you're still beautiful to me no matter what you choose. You never let anyone push you into a box, and you were so powerful and real for that. Wherever you are now, I hope you're still proud of yourself and shining as radiant and empowering as ever. Never, ever, ever doubt your ability not just to give love, but to be loved as well. Whatever we were, whatever we are or could be, it doesn't matter what it was called or could be called, because that love I have for you transcends labels.

Will. I know it was difficult for us at first. I was protective of Nico, and didn't want him to get hurt, and hounded both of you while I was getting defensive and overbearing. I did a lot of projecting instead of letting you both have the space to figure things out for yourselves. You were excited to have your first boyfriend, so was he, and I was fearful of seeing it potentially go wrong. It had to go its full course though, and I'm truly sorry if my jealousy or possessiveness over Nico got in the way. You'll always be my little brother though, and I wish only the best for you. I wish I had been more patient and kind. Thank you for being so understanding and patient for me, and allowing me the space to feel welcomed by the Apollo cabin and like I was part of the Camp Halfblood community. It was an escape from the heavy energy and responsibility of New Rome, and there's a lot I could have learned from you if I'd just taken the time to shut up and listen.

Annabeth. I know you didn't trust me. My intentions were never to take Percy from you. I'm sorry for making you feel insecure or intruded upon. Much like with Will and Nico, I guess I was just afraid. You and Percy went through so much together. I can never expect to understand the experiences you shared, and I admittedly feel like I will always be second to you in a lot of ways. I never wanted you to feel second to me. You are a bright, bold, intelligent, courageous and highly diplomatic young woman who I have always had a deep respect for. I only ever wanted for us to be friends, had we ever been able to talk it out and establish those boundaries and vulnerabilities with each other. It's okay, though. Don't ever, ever doubt that Percy loves you. I swear that.

Frank. You're a good guy. Don't be so hard on yourself. You're doing great. I know your upbringing and heritage made a lot of your position in society quite scary and heavy to carry, and I could have been more available to support you in shouldering all of that responsibility, but you show a maturity and kindness that many could learn from. I have no doubt in my mind that you'd make a brilliant father and a fantastic pioneer for change in New Rome, and I trust that had you carried on after I was gone, you were making the right decisions. Fighting alongside you was an honour, soldier. Be a little nicer to Leo though, okay? He means well.

Hazel. I have nothing but respect for you. I wish I'd gotten to know you better. Thank you for looking after Nico when he needed a sister in his life. You were everyone's sister, and your compassion and kindness never went unnoticed by any of us. Keep on shining.

Clarisse. I know we butted heads, you butted heads with everyone, but it's okay to show your soft side. Not everything has to be a battle. It's okay. You're not alone. Nobody really hated you. You're so much tougher than you give yourself credit for. I enjoyed our friendly banter and sparring. You were a good buddy. Your music taste is still fantastic. Never stop rocking, queen.

Rachel. Thanks for letting me vent. You were invaluable in my times of need. Bless your heart.

Reyna. Get yourself that damn vacation you've been dreaming of all your life. Kick your feet up. Have a margarita. Reward yourself from time to time. You work so so so hard. It's okay. Let yourself rest. The legion will keep going even jf you take a break for yourself. You've earned it. Let yourself rest. More importantly, let yourself sleep girl!

Thalia. Thalia, Thalia, Thalia. What would I have ever done without you? I am... so, so, so sorry I had those fights with you. It's ironic how I turned to the sun and you to the moon, huh? So similar yet so different. But we were always pack, always family. I shouldn't have lashed out when you needed support of your own, even if it did come from someone like Luke. I still feel hurt and like you chose him over me, like how I guess Nico felt about Bianca choosing Artemis as well sometimes... but it never made me hate you, if anything it just made my admiration for you so much stronger. I wish, with all my heart, that I could have been there with you and Grover to prevent those things happening to you, to stop Luke turning on everyone, but I guess destiny just called us in different directions, huh? I can't say I'm happy about how things turned out, but I don't blame you for being angry at our parents about it. Just know that I forgive you, if you have it in your heart to forgive me. I'm sad that we never really reconnected after we found each other again, but I know that you were in good hands with the Huntresses. If we ever reconnect in this life... I want my sister back, and I hope you want your brother back as well. If nothing else, to at least find closure and patch up loose ends. I miss you. I love you. Please be safe.

- Jason Grace #🖤⚡️🦅

#fictionkinfessions #fictionkin #🖤⚡️🦅#jasongracekin #pjokin #chara love #apology #seekin #mod party cat

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calliesmemes · 2 months

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SUFFS: THE MUSICAL

ASSORTED SENTENCE STARTERS pulled from the Tony award winning production SUFFS, a new Broadway musical about the decades-long Suffrage movement and the fight to secure women’s’ rights to vote amidst the turbulence of the First World War.

CHANGE gendered words and in-universe phrases as needed.

SPECIFY muse for multimuses.

CONTENT WARNINGS include misogyny and swearing.

ACT ONE

❛ Welcome, gentlemen! ❜

❛ God bless the land of freedom we hold dear. ❜

❛ We'll tidy up our politics until they are pristine. ❜

❛ Don't we deserve a little prize? ❜

❛ Don't worry, it's all right. ❜

❛ Just hold your fury in. ❜

❛ That’s the only way we can win. ❜

❛ Don't get so defensive; don't be so aggressive. ❜

❛ I don't wanna be a meek little one in games they play. ❜

❛ I wanna march in the streets. ❜

❛ Should I try to take the lead alone? ❜

❛ My ideas just dwindle and die. ❜

❛ Will I truly be able to change the world? ❜

❛ I’ll be there on the day when we finally finish the fight. ❜

❛ What's the emergency? ❜

❛ How will we do it when it's never been done? ❜

❛ How will we find the way where there isn't one? ❜

❛ That was a great speech. ❜

❛ When we take on a tyrant, we burn him down. ❜

❛ That’s not leadership; it’s cowardice. ❜

❛ I'm so sick of rhetoric with no action to back it. ❜

❛ When we show up, we show up for all of us. ❜

❛ I’ve never felt so alive before. ❜

❛ I feel a part of something bigger than me. ❜

❛ I feel my word about to change. ❜

❛ I'm a great American bitch. ❜

❛ I'd rather be right than rich. ❜

❛ I seduce whoever I please. ❜

❛ Come on, we'll do it together, get up.. ❜

❛ I must honor the promises of my campaign. ❜

❛ Governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed. ❜

❛ We'll be glad to educate you. ❜

❛ Will I feel like a failure no matter what choice I make? ❜

❛ If I don't give my all to my calling, I'll never be able to forgive myself. ❜

❛ If we were married, I promise to cherish you just as a gentleman should. ❜

❛ You've got to admire the ease with which men can squeeze us into such a rigid role. Daughters are taught to aspire to a system expressly designed to keep them under control. ❜

❛ Don't let her get to your head, focus on your speech instead. ❜

❛ What was I thinking enabling her? ❜

❛ What if she ruins what I’ve been mounting for years? ❜

❛ You just publicly implied I'm a disloyal disgrace. ❜

❛ If you have something to say, say it to my face. ❜

❛ Why are you fighting me? I am not the enemy. ❜

❛ I want us to meet someone. ❜

❛ You really put the rage in suffrage. ❜

❛ I’ve got a surprise; close your eyes. ❜

❛ It feels like we’re right back at the start. ❜

❛ Too bad for them, they're up against a queen with a spine of steel. ❜

❛ You are the bravest person I've ever met. ❜

❛ Don't you wanna face the villain down and demolish him? ❜

❛ They ought to be frightened of you and me. ❜

❛ Dammit! Why are you the only person I can never turn down? ❜

❛ We'll hold a rally first thing. ❜

❛ Don't you think we've waited long enough? ❜

❛ I need to plan a memorial fit for a queen. ❜

❛ I used to wish I could be in her shoes. ❜

ACT TWO

❛ We rose up in defiance, yes we chose to risk it all. ❜

❛ The old way always dies. ❜

❛ I may not be a great man, but I am a man who upholds his vows. ❜

❛ You will sit down, shut up, and eat your food. ❜

❛ Hold it together; see it through. ❜

❛ Don't let despair get the best of you. ❜

❛ What a coward you’ve become. ❜

❛ Fight your own war. ❜

❛ You promised me we would burn him down. ❜

❛ What have they done to you?! ❜

❛ Decades of defiance take their toll. ❜

❛ God, I wish I had her courage. ❜

❛ All rumors in the press are entirely false. ❜

❛ You're deep in pain, you feel insane, and no one can talk you off the ledge. But that's exactly how those crooked kings want you to feel. ❜

❛ I know I’m intense — It's just how I cope in a world that's gone crazy. ❜

❛ All I've ever wanted is to change things for the better. ❜

❛ Is it so insane to want my own choice? ❜

❛ it's time we burn him down. ❜

❛ Thank you for finally sharing a cup of tea with me. ❜

❛ Who cares who gets the credit or the blame? What matters is the work gets done. ❜

❛ I know you think I'm this arrogant kid, but I've just always known it's my calling to see this movement through. ❜

❛ I feel like a parent made to reprimand my child. ❜

❛ I'm so tired of fighting. ❜

❛ God, how I wish we could really be wed. ❜

❛ I'm proud of you. ❜

❛ Even when you drove me to my wits end, the best thing I've ever been is your friend. ❜

❛ I won’t live to see the future that I fight for. ❜

❛ Progress is possible, not guaranteed. ❜

❛ You’ll rarely agree with whoever’s in charge. ❜

❛ The future demands that we fight for it now. ❜

#askbox meme #askbox prompt #rp ask meme #roleplay sentence meme #sentence starters #ask box #roleplay prompts #roleplay sentence starters #rpc help #* sentence meme

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84reedsy · 3 months

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The Mentorship, Part 22 - The End

The Mentorship

Characters: Curt Hennig/FemOC , Scott Hall/FemOC

Part 22 of 22

Warnings/Considerations: Smut, Age Gap, Power Dynamics, Dirty Talk, swearing

Word Count: 3470

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21

Taglist: @writeandsurvive @theweaselandthekilt To anyone and everyone who's read this; a sincere thank you from the bottom of my heart. This was the first thing I started writing when getting back into the wrestling fandom and it was meant to be just a one chapter blurb - but it grew into much more! Everyone's kind words and encouragement made finishing this possible <3

Pay-Per-Views were always more stressful. There was a lot more pressure to perform perfectly - much less was left to chance. Honestly, it felt like managerial over-reach, especially when they second-guessed Curt's suggestion for opening the match. Brinkley frowned at the man she'd never seen before yet acted as if he knew better than the three professional journeymen who stood next to her.

Curt shook his head to discourage her argument and Scott subtly touched her arm. She didn't know how they were so calm and so willingly taking bad direction from this wannabe booker. It was insulting to her, let alone them.

“This time,” Curt looked around them once the four of them were alone again, “we are here to protect you. We usually end up doing whatever we want. For us, it's like ‘so what if Russo bitches about it’. But…when you're on your own, you're gonna have to pick your own battles with them,” he knew as a newcomer she wouldn't carry enough clout outside of this match.

“There's only so much we'll be able to say,” Scott followed up.

“I get it…” she nodded, understanding their warning, “Don't rock the boat unless I absolutely have to,”

“Jesus, that boat is gonna end up capsizing” Kevin rolled his eyes, but smirked at her, ruffling her hair like a child.

“Thanks A LOT, now I have to go fix it!” She scurried back to hair and makeup, knowing time was running short. She could already hear the crowd reacting to the opening matches. Her stomach turned as her hair was resmoothed and fixed into a high pony with a braid wrapped around its base. She wasn't sure she'd ever been this nervous.

She worried she might throw up in the hallway from the nerves as she made her way to the locker room, trying to ignore the distant roar of 50,000 people that echoed through the concrete halls. Their match was still an hour away, how was she ever going to maintain until then?

“Aren't you glad we taped our promos already?” Curt smirked as she paced in the locker room looking a little pale. Scott and Kevin were filming their response live to the crowd now. He knew she'd get there eventually, once she got all of these tough firsts out of the way.

“God, yeah, I'd be a mess if we did it now, live. Why are pay-per-views so stressful?!” She continued pacing around the room to dispel her nervous energy, shaking out her arms to keep them loose.

Curt watched her, thoughts and memories swirling around in his head. If he’d never suggested what he had to Scott, he had to wonder if she’d still just be pining from afar and spending her nights in Curt’s room, working out her energies there. He knew he’d done this to himself and that it was the right thing to do, but he couldn’t help but feel some level of selfish regret.

He knew what he’d like to do to redirect her mind and what to channel that energy into. He couldn't deny that he'd pleasured himself before many big matches just to level out. Sex (even with one's self) was the ultimate way to prepare for a high energy performance. It was the same with actors, singers… wrestlers were no different. He could feel his impulsivity tapping at the back of his mind, making unsettlingly concrete arguments in favor of the proposition.

But he knew she'd tell Scott. She was adamant about being honest with him. He was grateful and irritated that she'd listened so well to his lessons. He didn't think he wanted to deal with however Scott may feel about it. It was better to keep the peace.

“CURT!” Brinkley snapped him with his towel, jarring his focus back to the present, “where are you?” She asked, having been rambling on for a few minutes only to see him staring off into the middle distance. The way he broke out into the tiniest of cold sweats and looked a little befuddled gave her a hint.

“Sorry, what? What were you saying?” He still shook his head, hoping it was dissolve the vivid memories in his head.

Brinkley straddled the bench he was sitting on a he pulled his kneepads just below his knees. She picked at a knot in the wood with her fingernail.

“Is it always gonna be like this?” She asked barely above a mumble, only looking up at him after she asked. He paused from answering right away, fiddling with his boots still. He sighed and rested his forearms on his knees.

“We're friends first, right?” He asked.

“That's what I hope for,” she oddly thought of all the times he turned her down, wondering if he was regretting them, “But is that too selfish of me? Is that me being naive?”

“No, it's not selfish of you. I should be able to give that to you.” He ran his hand over his slicked hair, “but I'd like to say something if I could,” he looked at her for silent permission.

She nodded.

“I wish I'd stayed professional with all this,” he knew that part would sound harsh, but he paused before the rest, “Because you are the best I've ever felt with somebody in that way…in a lot of ways actually. And going forward now knowing what I'm missing, knowing what we had…I just hate that I have to gatekeep what I didn't before” he stumbled around his words a little, looking frustrated.

“I know what you mean,” she tried to reassure him, “The idea of doing anything to hurt Scott makes me sick to my stomach…but it doesn't stop me from thinking about you. You were my first, I'm always going to remember what we were,” she reached out, resting her hand on the inside of his elbow.

“I know you moving on is the right thing, baby girl. I just hate the idea of being left behind,” he laid his hand over hers, “But I want you to do well…I want you to turn this place on its head. Be the first woman to get top billing. Of anyone…you can do it.”

“Thanks for believing in me all this time,” she squeezed his hand a little, “Curt if you want-” she started but he cut her off.

“I want you to do well in this match. And I know in my gut you will, so just…focus on that,” he said, squeezing back harder. He knew what she was about to offer; either inspired to out of pity for him or out of mutual desire, maybe even nostalgia…he knew nothing down that path was going to help her. And his job had been to help her.

Letting her go was the best thing he could do for her now.

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

Brinkley didn't think she'd ever been this nervous on this side of the curtain. Even her first day was less nerve wracking than this. Her pulse thundered in her ears as she focused on her breath and tried to blank out the last few months.

“Don't forget,” Curt reminded her, hoping that any conversation would be calming, “you're not my valet this time. You're my partner. First time and last time with me, “ he looked over her outfit, the long leggings a better choice than her ass half hanging out of her shorts…at least for this match. The leggings were still stunning, criss-crossed orange and black lines went up the outside of each leg, large swaths were thin mesh, leaving a lot of skin somewhat exposed. The purple was perfect against her skin.

The top was another piece he bought, the strappy corset laced top. It added the perfect subtle sexuality to her outfit, not that she needed the help.

“Partners,” Brinkley reached out her hand, Curt took it, nodding his head as he smiled.

“One last time,” He took a deep breath as the entrance music began playing.

This time, he went out first, playing to the crowd and then building up Brinkley’s entrance to a surprisingly loud pop from the crowd. The sound made Brinkley grin widely. She wondered if the face turn would carry through her turning on Curt. They had been heels, but if the match was done like they’d planned…Curt would remain a heel and she would be the face among the Outsiders. That is until she adapted to their sneaky ways.

She felt comfortable with their plans. The future wasn’t scary - she wasn’t nervous or mournful like she thought she might feel. Curt hyped her up on the way to the ring as the camera followed closely.

The intimidating factor came from the two large men waiting in the ring for them. She almost wished she was still mad at Scott, it would make keeping a straight face easier. Especially with the way that Scott and Kevin looked at her like they were going to devour her. She did realize that she was the prize of the match - she let that boost her confidence and distract from the imposing opponents ahead.

She and Curt played to the crowd, mimicking each other's movements while they stood on the ropes in opposite corners. They synchronized their gum slapping and the crowd ate every bit of it up.

As they all four stood in the ring, separated only by the referee who was telling them to get to their corners, Brinkley pleaded to start the match. She enjoyed the acting part of kayfabe and she was among three of the best at it.

“C’mon Hennig, let me start, I can take these old guys!” She insulted them, as if Curt wasn’t the same age as them.

“Yeah, Hennig, let her take us on, let us have a go at the rookie,” Kevin nodded, sarcastically smiling as his words were meant to be insulting.

“Yeah, we got lots of moves for what’s about to be ours,” Scott pulled on a strand of her hair lightly, stepping back quickly as she shot him a warning look. The crowd responded as well.

“Yaaaaawn, same old tired moves you've been using for the last 15 years? Spare me,” she rolled her eyes, taking a step back as Scott started for her.

Curt shoved him back, barking at Brinkley to get to their corner. She frowned as if offended.

“Yeah, sweetheart, wait in the corner like a good little girl,” Kevin doubled down on his disrespectful tone. She flipped him off, but retreated through the ropes as did Kevin, Scott and Curt beginning their dance around the middle of the ring. After smacking gum through the air and a toothpick being thrown, the two locked up.

Brinkley tried to encourage Curt, holding her hand out for a tag but was denied when she was ignored. She played up throwing a tantrum, even playing the first couple of rows of fans that his refusal was “bullshit”. A contingent of fans started a change of the word, turning into a chorus against Curt. He was on the losing end now, Scott and Kevin having exchanged places a few times by now. Curt was far from the ‘fresh man’ in.

“CURT, COME ON!” Brinkley yelled, reaching her arm dramatically out over the rope as far as she could manage. The crowd was behind her, the chant now changing to “Tag her! Tag her!”

Curt took a clothesline and stumbled backwards, his hand falling into hers as she took the tag and he rolled out to the floor. She jumped into the ring, a disheveled Scott staring her down from the middle of the ring. He held up both hands, beckoning her to try him. He looked back at Kevin, both pointing at her and laughing. She took the chance to leg sweep him to the canvas, standing again quickly while looking down at his stunned face.

“Oh you got tricks?” He looked threatening at her, “Let’s do this then,”

He locked up with her, reminding her quietly to keep breathing through every move and that he was swinging her into the ropes. She followed the direction, sliding between his legs and grabbing his ankles, again leaving him on his back on the canvas. He cursed, slapping the ring in frustration as she ‘outsmarted’ him again.

She walked too close to the opponents corner and Kevin grabbed her, holding her against the turnbuckle. Scott lined up a punch, but right before he corrected, she slipped out of the grip downward, Scott connecting with Kevin instead and knocking him off the ring apron.

Scott looked over the rope at Kevin laying on the mats below, Brinkley threw herself into the opposite rope and toward Scott, hitting him with an arm bar that sent him over the top rope as well, landing on top of Kevin.

The thunderous pop from the crowd was deafening. She tried to not wince as the noise overwhelmed her ears. But she held up a hand above her head, calling for more.

The referee started counting out Scott who took nearly 8 of the count to roll back in. She had to use every ounce of her acting to not react to the dark ‘anger’ in Scott's eyes. He locked up with her again, once more slinging her into the ropes and hooking her into an arm bar takedown. She landed flat with a loud thud on the mat. She sold the fall, rolling to her side and moaning into the mat.

She looked toward her home corner and Curt was leaning over the rope, barking a demand that she tag him, she ‘drug’ herself towards him, but Scott grabbed her by the ankle and dragged her backwards to his corners, now tagging Kevin.

Kevin held her in the corner and she braced herself for the chops she knew was coming. He left them high to avoid a tit-shot, but there was careless padding higher and the slap stung, redding her skin. She sold it well, slipping downward again, only for Kevin to grab her by the hair.

She went for the easy low blow, Kevin selling like a champ as he went down into a fetal position. She knew Curt wanted back in and she should tag him, but she was having fun. And being with Scott and Kevin moving forward, who knew when she'd have a chance to fight them again?

But she was getting winded for real at this point and made a dramatic crawl that the crowd reacted to with supportive cheers; yelling louder and louder as she drew closer. She'd gotten at least 6-7 minutes in.

Just as Kev tagged Scott and he quickly stepped in, she slapped Curt's outstretched fingers and he came flying in with fresh energy, pummeling Scott. She rolled out under the ropes, “recovering”.

She caught her breath, hearing the bumps in the ring as she reached under it. The folding chair was exactly where it was supposed to be as she slid it out and slowly made her way to her feet. She held up her finger to her lips to the fans at the barricade as she played out her secret “cheat”.

She wondered how much heat she might actually pull as “ooooo's” filtered through the nearby crowd. She waited several minutes until her opportune moment presented itself, watching as Scott got the upperhand, and Curt was trying to mount a comeback.

She slid in the ring with the chair as Kevin had the attention of the ref, trying to enter the ring. The crowd popped when she picked up the chair, her knuckles white as she gripped the legs tightly. A thousand thoughts spun through her mind, but she ignored any objections of her own - knowing this was the best thing for the story line.

She landed a loud, safe slap of the metal chair against Curt’s back and stood for a moment while the crowd hushed for a second before reacting in surprise. Scott fell forward over Curt as Kevin pointed the ref to the cover. 1, 2, 3.

The heat from the crowd was instant and it bled over to Kevin who came over and celebrated with her. Scott was up moments later, each man holding a wrist of her’s in victory.

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

She waited in the wings of the gorilla as they exited for Curt as he came back through the curtain. She couldn’t tell if he was mad or just exhausted. Maybe both. But as he looked up at her, trying to smooth back his hair, he grinned a little and smirked as he shook his head.

“Wasn’t expecting that…” He admitted, “But…it was by far the best way to do it.” He didn’t like feeling like he was left out of the conversation, but he also knew she owed him a couple of receipts for a couple of different reasons, “Are we even now? Or do I still gotta watch my back around you?” He joked.

“I feel like I should be able to still get in one rib before we call it even,” She postured, “but I GUESS we can call a truce,” She held out her hand to him. He looked at it and after a brief pause, shook her hand. They both smiled, but he could see tears creeping into the corner of her eyes.

“Thank you for everything, Curt,” She said through the ache in her throat. She felt silly for getting emotional. She would see him every night for the foreseeable future. They would likely be feeding in the ring, too. He would be trying to convince her to come back only for her to set him up for a Scott and Kevin melee.

But regardless, it felt like the end of an era for her. She finished shaking his hand, pulling away as they walked down the hall to wear Scott waited for her, slinging his arms across her shoulders.

“You guys headed out tonight?” Curt asked, “Got room in the back unless you wanna fight Steiner for the front,” he joked.

“Nope, in the morning, heading back to Scott's tonight,” Brinkley said, looking forward to that big house with just the two of them, “Kev's gonna swing by and get us,”

“We've still got a follow up interview to do for the next tv,” Scott reminded her as she started to untie her boots. She groaned, starting to lace them back up.

“I forgot about that, I'll be there in just a sec,” she told Scott, waving him on. He kissed her temple, making her giggle as he tickled her cheek with his stubble.

Sweaty coworkers filtered in and out, interrupting her lacing to compliment her on the match, almost always giving Curt his due credit, though he shrugged it off, humbly. He gave her all the accolades. Some even talked about possibly working together with Scott and Kevin.

When Russo came in with a compliment through his gritted teeth, Brinkley had to bite back her I told you so's, she took a page from Curt's book of humility and simply thanked him.

She looked at Curt who was finishing buttoning his shirt, “Guess we'll see you in Atlanta, then,” she said as he zipped his bag closed.

“See you in Atlanta, Brink. Keep those boys in line, now,” he teased, slapping her lightly on the shoulder as he walked out of the locker room. He walked alone to the car, knowing Ricky would be out soon. He tossed his bag into the trunk, laughing to himself as he imagined what mouthy, genius promo Brinkley was probably cutting against him. He looked forward to being as surprised as everyone else tomorrow when he saw it on a backstage monitor.

He had a few ideas of what she might say, each one making him laugh more than the last.

As he drove down the dark highway once again, he thought of how she would do great things. Her name would be in the marquee long after he'd retire. Who knows? Maybe in a strange twist he'd end up her valet.

“Everybody's jealous of your match,” Rick said, slouched down in the passenger seat with a baseball cap pulled over his eyes, “No one's gonna want to follow that kid,” he said.

Curt felt a genuine pride and some relief. But the credit for winning over everyone else was squarely with Brinkley. That was her gift, her natural talent. If only everyone had that, the locker room would be a far better place.

But as the night wore on and the yellow dotted lines passed by in the headlights, he felt content. He felt peace.

He'd done his job, he'd taught her well.

And though he hadn't expected it, he was thankful for all the things she'd taught him along the way, too.

#wrestling fan fic #wrestling fic #wrestling fanfiction #curt hennig #wcw #wwe #wrestling #fanfiction #pro wrestling #1999 #Scott hall #kevin nash #The Mentorship #wrestling smut #cameos by a lot of wrestlers

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thebestoftragedy · 3 months

Note

what are some books you liked and disliked so far this year?

So I read a lot (so far this year: 123 books finished, mostly novels), so I have a lot of books I liked and disliked. Let's call this my almost-mid-year year-in-books review. it's long. sorry (?)

5/5 star type books:

2666 by Roberto Bolaño - technically a reread (I read this for undergrad 10+ years ago). Really really good expansive weird dark book. A 'reading experience'. It's about knowledge and power and misogyny and history and academia and murder and death and what it means to have a legacy, and it's also pretty funny.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë - It's Jane Eyre! Not a reread but I was basically familiar with the plot due to basic cultural osmosis (I haven't seen any adaptations of it unless you count gifs on tumblr dot com). Good and fun. Romantic. All the haters are wrong.

4/5 stars, really good but maybe I had some reservations or it just didn't 'hit' the way I wanted:

Big Swiss by Jen Beagin - funny, weird, blah ending

The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith - good but tbh I like the movie better

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather - good!

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K. Dick - weird! fun.

Nightmare Alley by William Lindsay Gresham - fast fun gloomy

White Tears by Hari Kunzru - some awkward setup and bad pacing but a killer ending. stealth horror novel

The White Album/Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion - it's joan didion

The Heart is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers - quiet people leading lives of quiet desperation, etc.

Dungeon Meshi by Ryoko Kui - I read the whole manga series, I loved the first few volumes, hated most of the rest of the series, and then felt neutrally towards the last one or two volumes.

Looking Glass War, A Small Town in Germany, and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy by John le Carré - slowly working through all of his books, so far they're all worth reading but I'm not sure I'd be able to 'rank' any particularly far or below the others

The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett - some cringey stuff but a good fun weird sci fi/fantasy murder mystery. it's gonna be a series (maybe just a trilogy?) so I'll read the rest also.

The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon - killer killer first 60% and then the last 40% was like whatever.

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace - so it took me until page, like, 250 to really get into this, which I can't really forgive. overall I think this is a very good book that mostly justifies its weird formatting/premises/characters, but I would say it does not change my vague impression of the author as someone who fundamentally lacks empathy with women. there are a few chapters of this book (where a 'chapter' can easily be novella-length) that I think are pretty unconscionable. but it's still well done, totally unique, and effective at what it sets out to do. oh also the author gets the DEFCON system wrong and that's a pet peeve of mine. so.

A lot of the Bad books I read were just mediocre romance type novels and not super worth breaking down.

Notably Disappointing/Bad Books, 2/5 stars (where I pretty much hate them or think there's almost nothing worth reading there, but I at least got Something positive out of the experience):

Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston - this is a terrible bad stupid book I would have been embarrassed to have written as a 15 year old. but it had a few individual funny scenes/lines so it wasn't totally miserable to read.

The Monster Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson - almost incomprehensible sequel to The Traitor Baru Cormorant, which I liked ok/thought was interesting but underbaked. I'll try the third book, but I'm bailing if it's not immediately interesting to me because this was a total slog.

In Memoriam by Alice Winn - I think this got that second star on the merits of basically one good blowjob joke. going in I thought this was going to be more of a serious literary novel and not what it is, which is basically yaoi for twentysomething women who are really into song of achilles or whatever.

Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata - I got absolutely nothing out of this. Sorry Women

Murder Road by Simone St. James - wouldn't have been notable except that I used to enjoy this author a lot (when she wrote historical mysteries) and haven't liked her contemporary/more modern stuff as much, and then this was a new low. dull clumsy boring novel.

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley - this got a huuuuuuuge insane marketing push this year and I think has already been optioned for TV (this will be a recurring theme in this list). utter mess of a novel, combines secxually explicit self-insert RPF, wallowing about Being The Child Of An Immigrant, wallowing about Accidentally Doing Microaggressions Against A Coworker, wallowing in general, bad sci-fi, actually pretty good fish-out-of-water time travel comedy, and just general misery for me, personally, the reader. massive massive disappointment, actively makes me angry it was published. did I mention there's a scene of the narrator, who is very clearly the author, getting eaten out by this guy:

anyway. that happens.

A Short Stay in Hell by Steven L. Peck - a few tumblr mutuals loved this, I found the writing style distracting and inapt. it's supposed to be a cerebral type horror, but I couldn't get into it because the aw-shucks narrative voice keeps anything horrifying at a pretty far remove. also you could tell the author Really wanted to show off the Research he did, or like prove to you the reader how smart he is, and I dislike that sort of thing intensely when it's not pulled off well.

The 1 star zone, or: the abyss gazes also:

Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas - this is a super-well-known, super-well-loved, often listed as one of the best-of-all-time romance novels, and I just fucking hated every second of it. awful characters, awful plot, I wanted everyone to explode in an iron foundry accident (this happened in a different novel by the author, which also sucked).

Penance by Eliza Clarke - it's a fake true crime novel, very heavily based on a real crime, and it just did not justify its existence in any way. I got Nothing out of it and enjoyed none of it and it had no redeeming qualities for me. moderately offensive for it to exist at all, which I could more or less forgive if it were very good, but it's not.

Disfigured: On Fairytales, Disability, and Making Space by Amanda Leduc - bad tumblr posts pretending to be an academic type exploration of disability in fairytales, except you can tell the author has only read like 2 essays on the subject (because she only every references 2 other writers) and then watched some disney movies (but not even all of them). really lazy, bad-faith, deeply anti-intellectual. I spent my entire time reading this sending angry messages to @ilovemymutedcalico8487 about how wrong it is and how much it sucks.

My Darling Dreadful Thing by Johanna van Veen - I broke my rule and read a book with the word 'sapphic' in the goodreads description. really inept gothic, really clumsy 2014 tumblr SJW stuff wedged into a story that takes place in midcentury the netherlands, just bad.

Margo's Got Money Trouble by Rufi Thorpe whose name I will NOT mistype as Rupi Kaur even though she might as fucking well be - absolute garbage shit idiot trash for garbage shit idiots. actively loathsome and evil book. soon to be adapted as a tv series starring (and I'm refusing to google to double check this, so I could be completely misremembering, but this this does not deserve care or accuracy) elle fanning and nicole kidman. just don't.

congrats on reading. as a reward, you should go read a book that's good.

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lokigayforhela · 1 year

Text

Ricochet

TW: Character Death

WC: 3902

Rating: PG

A/N: Hi, there! Long time no see. Any Swifties out there? Like just about half of the rest of the world, I've become enthralled with the Eras Tour and a couple of songs have been weighing heavily on my mind, and I thought I'd put one of them to good use and make this very sad fanfic to cope. My sincerest apologies for the feelings you're absolutely about to have. Enjoy~

Can you still feel me here?

Hela blinked dully out of the grandiose windows of the solarium, the light of Asgard’s nearest sun filtering through the window with a warmth that didn’t reach her skin. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt… anything. Couldn’t remember the last time something had made her heart feel like it should keep beating. Couldn’t remember the feel of your touch burning her with a passion that had felt thrilling and intoxicating. A fire that she would have been happy to let turn her into ashes.

Until it had.

She didn’t like thinking about what she had done. Didn’t like holding the responsibility of what had happened to you on her shoulders with a heaviness that dragged her down, making the overarching outcome unworthy of the cost.

If only she had realized what was happening, what was being done to her. Perhaps she could have stopped herself from letting you go the one place she couldn’t follow, no matter how much she longed to.

The sound of a door opening brought Hela back to her senses, though her distant gaze remained unmoved, looking through the window and out into the courtyard, as if she could find all the answers she wished for and comfort she craved so desperately hidden amongst the grass and flowers down below. She didn’t look up even as she felt a presence settle near her side.

“It’s time.”

The rough voice was enough to jolt her a little more firmly into the present, though she still refused to look him in the eye.

Not after what he’d made her do.

The short silence that followed was halted by a heavy sigh.

“You are the one that wanted to lay her to rest.”

Something snapped inside of her, at that, and with a gaze so fierce she could have turned everything to stone, she finally looked at her father, fighting to keep her focus on him and not the pale figure that stood off to the side behind him. As she spoke, her lips curled into a snarl that she struggled not to vocalize.

“And you’re the reason that she’s dead.”

The Allfather said nothing to that, instead turning his own gaze to the window. As though silence was what would fill in the cracks of their shattered relationship and make it whole again. As though his refusal to acknowledge his part in the crime would bring you back and make everything as it once was again.

Unwilling to let him get away so easily, Hela exhaled heavily, her fury palpable in the space between them.

“You had no right using the Stone on me. No. Right.”

“It had to be done.”

Hela felt her fingers twitch against the seam of her black trousers. She hadn’t been able to wear her suit again yet. Couldn’t bring herself to, when your blood stained the memory of it.

“You made it so.” She swallowed thickly. “You knew there was no other way for you to get what you wanted.” For just a second, her gaze faltered to that pale figure again, long enough to see the distraught melancholy etched across lips firmly pressed together, and then she had to look away again.

Do you regret what you did?

“It is not just I who benefits from the collection of the Infinity Stones, daughter. The entirety of them in our armory would ensure that Asgard remains the very seat of power in not just the Nine Realms, but the entire cosmos.”

“It means nothing.” This time Hela did snarl, hands curling into fists where they hung at her sides. She couldn’t afford to let her anger get the better of her. Even if there were no longer consequences that she cared about.

The Allfather heaved another sigh that seemed to echo in the emptiness of the solarium. “…you’ll understand, in time.”

Hela bit out a scoff, lips pressing together tightly as she tried to control the urge to continue arguing, and almost immediately lost. “Did you watch it happen? Did you see the fear in her eyes, as I dragged her to the edge of the cliff? Hear the terror in her voice as she tried to figure out what I was doing? Why I was the one doing it?” She swallowed thickly, blinking to stifle the burn of tears in her eyes. “She didn’t go willingly. She was terrified. She fought and she kicked and she tried to get away. And I didn’t let her. You didn’t let her.”

“That she fought means she will be immortalized in Valhalla.”

“At what cost?!” This time, Hela could not keep the emotion out of her voice, and one single tear trailed down her face. “I’ll never be able to see her again. She will never be allowed into my realm, and I will never be allowed into hers. Something else that you made so. What a birthright. To rule a realm only the unglorified in death will see.”

“Hela.” The Allfather’s voice was much softer than it had been previously, and for just a moment, Hela thought that he might actually regret what he had done. That he might actually hold remorse for taking control of her mind with the Stone and giving her no choice but to do his bidding by whatever means necessary.

And then out of the corner of her eye, she saw the figure move just an inch closer, blurry features becoming just a little more recognizable. Familiar.

“…leave me to bury her alone. I don’t require your help nor do I want it. It was by my hand that she was killed, and it will be by my hand that she is laid to rest. In the gardens. And you will not demand I place her elsewhere. You will not complain about the state of the soil and grass until the ground heals over again. It will serve as a reminder for you just as much as it will for me. And I wish that you could feel the same pain and regret that I will, every day for the rest of my life.” She paused, taking a shaky breath as she turned her head to face the window again. “But you won’t. And you never will.”

Nothing was said after that, and Hela held her breath until she heard the sound of receding footsteps followed by a door closing. She wanted to break down right then and there. Wanted to scream and break things and weep until she could no longer.

But she had to make it through what came next.

She owed you that much.

Taking a slow breath to steady herself, she turned from the window, ignoring the fact that the figure was now closer than it had been, and began to walk, each step feeling like it took every drop of energy she held within herself.

You can do this, she told herself over and over again, ignoring the feel of eyes on her as the figure undoubtedly followed just behind her.

In a strange sort of way, Hela mused that it felt right that this was something that was going to be just the two of you. All that had ever been between you, had only been for the two of you. Until it hadn’t, and that was a mistake Hela already knew she would regret for the rest of her time. One little slip, and your secret had become known and then had been used against you, and now she was burying you.

When she reached the spot in the gardens where it was to be done, she found that you had already been brought out, your body wrapped in black silks tied neatly with ribbons. She hadn’t wanted to confine you into a coffin. You had never liked small spaces. And you’d always talked about how one day your body would go on to grow the very flowers and trees that you loved so much, so it had seemed natural for Hela to bury you in a way that you were closer to achieving that.

Did you ever think I’d be growing the flowers so soon?

She reached over to take the shovel that had been propped up against the willow tree that she had picked out to bury you beneath. She easily could have had someone dig the hole for her, or could even have used magic to carve out the ground beneath her, but she wanted to do it herself. Wanted to punish herself in a way that was useful. A way that honored you, even if it was the saddest way in which one could honor a person.

You deserved so much more than that, but it was all Hela could give you now.

As she began to dig down into the earth, she was all too aware of the pale figure standing just across from her, could feel the gaze following her as she mechanically dug the shovel down, hefted the dirt to the side, and repeated the motion over and over again. The silence that surrounded her seemed… loud. Unnatural and uncomfortable, and she wished that a bird would settle in one of the drooping branches of the tree and sing just to fill the emptiness that had bled out from her heart and begun to saturate the garden as she dug and dug.

It wasn’t until Asgard’s sun had reached its peak in the sky that Hela finally allowed herself a break. She’d dug a solid four feet into the ground, which likely would be more than enough to lay you to rest without a coffin, but to err on the safer side, she wanted to dig at least another foot or two more.

Pulling herself up to sit on the edge of the empty grave, she took a moment to rub at her hands, swiping the dirt and debris away as best she could, and as she turned her hands, the sunlight caught on the ring she wore on her right hand. Something else that had been just for the two of you. She brought her hand closer to her face, carefully wiping at the set stone perched neatly in the band, trying to wipe away the last remaining specks of dirt, even though she knew it was fruitless. She was only going to dig more and have to do the same thing over again when she finished.

“I gave you that ring.”

Hela swallowed thickly, and after a long moment of hesitation, tilted her head up to finally look at you, trying to ignore the way the sunlight streamed right through your body, and how the draping leaves of the willow tree passed right through your chest and legs as you stood on the other side of the grave, face still twisted with that deep melancholy that had made itself home in your expression.

“It was just for us. Something only we would know. And that was enough. For me, it was enough.”

Hela swallowed thickly, unable to hold your gaze as you spoke. The sound of your voice brought back terrible memories, of the way she had gripped you by the wrist and pulled you bit by bit to the edge of the cliff and the way you had screamed, begged her to stop and apologized for whatever you had done to upset her so.

“It wasn’t really you that did it. I know that now.” You turned your face up to look at the flowering buds on the ends of the willow branches as they blew in the breeze, holding your hand out and watching the sunlight filter through the translucency of your skin. “It’s funny, when you die. You learn all the secrets. The ones you’ve always wanted to know, and the ones you had no idea were being kept.” You gave a sad smile, letting your hand drop back to your side as you looked back to Hela, frowning when you realized she still wasn’t looking at you. “I think that it would be too much for someone living to know. And that’s why it’s all kept away from you until you have nothing left to learn in life, so you have to learn everything that comes after it.” You gave a soft sigh, wanting nothing more than to reach out and comfort her, to draw her into your arms and soothe away her hurt and grief. “…I’m not mad at you. I need you to know that.”

Hela finally looked up at that, brow creased with a sorrow that you knew mirrored that which resided in your own being. “I killed you. I did.”

You shook your head. “Not of your own accord. And that’s what matters. What he did to you was unfair. And yes, what you did to me because of him was unfair, too, but… I cannot hold it against you. I saw how you were afterward. When it was done. Saw the way you broke yourself out of the grip of the Mind Stone, the way you fought your way back to me, uncaring of the work it would take for you to find me at the bottom of that cliff.” You gave a soft, sad little smile. “Did you know you’re the only person that’s ever come back for someone? I learned that after I died, too.”

Hela forced a smile that even you could see was more sadness than anything else. “I couldn’t leave you there. When I came to my senses, when I realized what had happened… I had to bring you back. I couldn’t leave you there, after everything. After seeing the way you had fought so hard to get me to stop and I hadn’t… couldn’t…”

You nodded slowly, taking a slow breath, even though you didn’t need the oxygen any longer. “I didn’t have it in myself to go with grace. I knew that much, even though I didn’t understand what was happening at the time. I knew I had to fight back, even if it was pointless. To be honest, I think it was more out of instinct than anything else.”

Hela averted her gaze to the bottom of the pit once more, and abruptly turned it up again. If she looked too long at the distant ground beneath her, she could see the image of your broken form sprawled out on the ground, laying there like a forgotten porcelain doll. You watched as Hela’s face darkened, and couldn’t bear to see her get upset any more than she already was, and you heaved another pointless sigh. “…I don’t want you to remember me like that, though.”

Hela took a shaky breath, cutting her eyes back to look at you directly again. “I don’t want to remember you like this, either.”

You smiled as best you could. “Then don’t. Remember me the way that I was when it was just you and me. Those special moments we had when no one else was watching. That’s how I’ll remember you.”

“I don’t know how to go on without you,” Hela admitted, in the smallest voice you had ever heard her speak in, and it broke you to know that it was because of you.

“The same way that you did before me.”

Hela shook her head. “It’s different now. I’ll know what I lost. What I could have had.”

You smiled softly, trying not to let your overwhelming sadness show in your expression. “I will always be yours. Even if I’m nothing but the morning breeze or the light of the moon shining on you in the dark when you can’t sleep at night. I’ll still be yours.”

“I’ll miss you.” She hesitated for a moment. “I already do. I miss you so much, that I feel it. Like an ache in my bones.”

“And I’ll miss you the same. I always will. And it will hurt, knowing that I can exist and go anywhere I could ever want, in a sense, but… never back home.” The weight of your words left you drifting down toward the ground, and you let yourself hover as though you were sitting on the edge of the grave, your grave, across from Hela so that you could keep watching her.

“You were so brave. Up until I… up until the end, you were so brave. You always were.”

You looked up at Hela to find that she was openly weeping now. You’d rarely seen her cry before, but this… this was something entirely different. This was a cry that seemed to be wrenching itself from somewhere deep within her chest, causing her hands to tremble and her shoulders to heave with the force of it.

“You taught me to be. And I will always be grateful for that. Grateful for the time that we had together, even if it was cut so devastatingly short.”

After an achingly long moment, Hela nodded, though you weren’t sure if it was in agreement or resolve, and then she stood again and reached for the shovel before hopping back down into the bottom of the grave.

There were so many more things you wanted to say, and you were sure that there were even more things that Hela wanted to say, too, but instead you let the silence wash over the both of you, watching wordlessly as she continued to dig deeper and deeper. Until the sun had begun its descent down toward the horizon.

It was just before sunset when Hela finally seemed satisfied with her work and she climbed out long enough so that she could carefully cradle your body to hers as she hopped back down to the bottom again. She couldn’t bear the thought of just tossing you down there as though you were little more than a rag doll. She wanted to lay you there gently, like she could pretend she was only tucking you in for a nap and not an eternal sleep.

With careful, hesitant hands, she laid you down gently, making sure that you were settled nicely against the horribly uncomfortable dirt beneath you, and she absentmindedly smoothed down the silks covering you, making you look nice and neat before kissing the top of your head and lingering there as you watched from above, a lump forming in your throat as you knew what would have to come next.

Hela hesitated after she had gotten herself back out of the grave, turning back around to look down where you lay, so far away and alone. It filled her with such a strong wish that she could follow you, which was quickly dampened by the knowledge that she never could, no matter how hard she tried.

You continued to watch her in silence, having a vague idea of where her mind was at, but uncertain that speaking about it so openly would help matters.

“I’m not down there anymore. And I never will be.” You made yourself rise, so that you were standing more equally with Hela again. “You don’t have to worry about me now. I’ll be okay.”

“But you won’t be with me,” Hela lamented, absentmindedly reaching for the shovel and gripping it in both hands as she continued to look down into the grave.

“Just because you cannot see me does not mean I won’t be with you. I will always be with you. Like birdsong on the wind or a lullaby in the quiet of night. Remember?”

You watched Hela as she finally, slowly, tore her gaze away from your motionless form down in the earth and looked back up at you, gaze drinking you in as though this would be her last chance to. And you supposed it would be, no matter how much you tried to sugarcoat it with sweet words and romantic ideas.

“I will be okay,” you repeated, holding her gaze with as much honesty and reassurance as you could muster when you could feel your heart aching, knowing that your remaining time with Hela was limited.

After an agonizingly long moment, Hela nodded, shifting her grip on the shovel slightly before finally turning, scooping up the first bit of dirt and knowing it would be the hardest.

She did not look as she let it fall down into the grave. Didn’t want to see it hit you, hear it land against the silks with a dull thud. Instead, she kept digging, slowly covering you up bit by bit as you watched her, unwilling to look anywhere else but at her.

You could feel it, as whatever last little bit of you that was tethered to Asgard, or perhaps Hela, began to sever in a way you knew meant that it was time for you to go wherever you were meant to be next. It felt calming, so peaceful that you knew you never could have experienced a feeling like it, when you were still alive. You tried to speak, tried to call Hela’s name one last time, but your voice came out little more than a whisper, despite the fact that you tried to scream it into the sky, desperate for her to look at you one last time.

Hela, though, seemed to sense what was happening without your help, and without stopping what she was doing, she met your gaze, mournful eyes locked with yours as she shoveled mound after mound of dirt on top of you. She kept her gaze on you as your translucent body flickered, fading in and out of existence as she buried you.

I love you, you wanted to tell her. Wanted to scream it so that everyone around could hear it, could feel the reverberation of the declaration throughout their very souls. But all you could do was mouth the words, again and again, so Hela knew that you meant them.

“I love you, too,” Hela responded, hesitating for just the slightest moment as she struck into the dirt with the shovel again. She was getting closer to being finished. Shoveling the dirt back in was going much faster than it had taken to get it out in the first place, a cruel circumstance that left Hela wishing she could drag out the ordeal as long as she could manage, if it meant that you would still be standing there, looking at her, with her.

But hadn’t she already made you suffer enough? Didn’t you deserve some peace and rest, after everything you had gone through? Wasn’t it time to finally let you go?

“I’ll never forget you,” Hela promised, holding the shovel with its last little bit of dirt above the grave but unwilling to drop it just yet. “I’ll keep you alive in every way that I couldn’t. Say your name every chance that I get, to keep you here with me.”

There was so much you still wanted to say to her, so much you wanted her to know.

But all you could do was muster your best smile as you nodded, a single tear running down your cheek and ricocheting off the collar of your gown as Hela released the last bit of soil, patting it flat as she watched your ghostly form give one last little shimmering flicker in the moonlight, and then disappear entirely.

And it was only then that Hela finally allowed herself to be lost to her grief.

#Hela x reader #Hela Odinsdottir x reader #Hela #Hela Odinsdottir #Marvel #oneshot #grief #hurt/comfort #emphasis on the hurt #this is a love letter to my tears ricochet and i hope it comes across as such

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softpromise · 10 months

Text

20 questions

how many works do you have on ao3? 11 works!

what's your total ao3 word count? 385,785?! wow

what fandoms do you write for? i have primarily published for zelda and one fic for honkai star rail, i've been working on a number of genshin impact fics but we'll see if i ever finish any haha. i miss the days when i could get myself to just post chapters as i wrote them but now i feel like i have to have all or a significant amount done before publishing :')

what are your top 5 fics by kudos? to hold the sun (zelink, complete), pawn structure (zelink, complete), i could only have you in my dreams (danstelle, slowly whittling away at another chapter), thunderstruck (zelink, complete), all in a day's work (working on a re-write!)

do you respond to comments? always and i feel guilty if it takes me too long to respond!! writing fanfiction is fun and cathartic but the reason i publish it is to talk to people about it. please comment on fanfic and feel free to respond again when/if authors reply - it's one of my favorite things!

what's the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? ummm i'd have to say i could only have you in my dreams but that's mostly because it's "unfinished" as it stands right now. i love reading and writing angst in a fic but i'm too baby to give something an actually angsty ending :x

what's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? EVERYTHING ELSE but maybe to avoid a cliche (zelink, complete) because the entire thing was a cliche and predictable and i just wanted it to feel cozy

do you get hate on fics? umm i'm sure i have but i don't really dwell on it. if someone's hating on skill, go off, i'm not a writing major and i'm publishing fics for free. if they want to hate on content/themes, different strokes for different folks. if they think i've done something "wrong", then i'd much rather they bring it to my attention respectfully so i can do better and learn. but at the end of the day, fanfiction is for fun, and i publish things i love and am proud of, and i've been lucky to receive a warm reception!

do you write smut? if so, what kind? absolutely i do! i feel like what i've published is on the kinkier end of the spectrum for a more vanilla reader, but on the vanilla end for a more seasoned reader. i like playing with power dynamics and desperation and worship/infatuation/obsession.

do you write crossovers? if so, what's the craziest one you've written? i haven't, and i don't know that i would! i really like coming up with plots that rely heavily on canon (even if it's just in my own way lol), and struggle with writing concepts that don't. i'm not sure i could get myself to write a crossover, unless it somehow still felt possible within canon!

have you ever had a fic stolen? not to my knowledge!

have you ever had a fic translated? i haven't! i'm working on a specific fic that i'd love to have translated into ukrainian eventually, so if there's anyone reading this that might be able to help, hit me up!

have you ever co-written a fic before? yes! to hold the sun with @obsidiangst and @hyperphonic, and pawn structure with hyperphonic. i learned so much through both experiences (and, yes, i'm tagging you both to do this xo)

what's your all-time favorite ship? easily zelink, i've loved them ever since i was a kid. it's the pure love, the cyclical romances, the trauma and the angst and the slow burn... and the forever and ever and ever. i've been really into chilumi lately too - the dynamic of "more than meets the eye" childe and "aloof intergalactic goddess that cares, believe it or not" lumine. i just love pining hahaha

what's a WIP you want to finish, but doubt you ever will? *looks at wips folder* all?!?!?!?! just kidding (?). i'm really not sure! i did start a midzel piece a long time ago, inspired by carmilla, and i don't know that i'll pick that one up again. maybe i'll try to polish up what i have and put out a one shot instead of the slowburn longfic i wanted to do :')

what are your writing strengths? the easiest thing for me to sit down and write through to completion (pun very much intended) is smut! that's very often the part i finish first, while doing everything else in bits and pieces. i'm generally going for sexy but artsy, with the right mix (for me!) of blunt words and prose. i also feel that i'm good at characterizations that align with/expand upon canon.

what are your writing weaknesses? i definitely struggle with getting all of my thoughts onto the page, and i often have to read and re-read and RE-re-read to see if what i wrote makes sense (i.e. i didn't forget to include anything critical because my brain assumes it's already there). lately i've been having trouble with really connecting to writing, too, which makes the text feel shallow to me. working on being patient and writing one good sentence at a time!

thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic? i love the idea and have a lot of thoughts so let me try to summarize! logistically, i would do it either in brackets (a la to hold the sun) or italics (if it was like a particular phrase in an otherwise english line) or just mention it, depending on the context. creatively, though, to me it's important (and fun!) to start by researching the culture. i also would be more comfortable including specific phrases/pet names rather than entire bouts of dialogue, unless i found a native speaker to help me!

first fandom you wrote for? zelda HAHA if i ever wrote any fanfic before that i don't remember it!

favorite fic you've ever written? hylia's greatest gift. it was something i felt was missing in the fandom, for a lot of reasons, and i think it represents what i'm best at writing as well as what i want to read. it's funny, it's lovely, it's sexy, and i really put no pressure on myself while writing it. i have something upcoming that can hopefully feel similar to me :)

thank you so much to @1up-girl for tagging me, i had so much fun reading your answers and then thinking through them myself! to anyone else reading, if you want to fill this out, consider yourself tagged - share your brain and @ me so i can read!!

#tag games #zelink #danstelle

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missvelvetsstuff · 1 year

Text

Guarded Heart

Summary: Y/N is the daughter of a powerful mob boss who only cares about her horses and making it to the Olympics but her father expects her to marry an equally powerful boss to help strengthen his business. Bucky is looking for a wife to help his business and give him an heir which his long time girlfriend, Natasha can't do.

Bucky x Reader, Bucky x Nat, Reader x Thor

Chapter 15

When Y/N's mother arrived at the townhouse, she was asleep. Her mother thanked Winnie for her kindness and got comfortable in a reading chair in Bucky's room.

Winnie spoke softly "We've made up the guest room for you, it would be more comfortable."

Her mother shook her head "Thank you for that but I need to be here with her in case she needs me. I'll be fine here."

Winnie nodded, understanding. She would do the same for hers. She only hoped they would all survive this mess.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

By the time Bucky arrived back at the warehouse the dust had settled and it wasn't pretty. Most of the police were gone except the forensics people and the medical examiners office, clearing out the dead. Seemed no point in gathering evidence since they already knew the whole story but protocols must be followed. Of course the official story would be mob related violence and written off because no one who saw any of it would dare speak out.

He was relieved to find his dad was alright while Steve and Sam only had minor scrapes and bruises. A number of their people had serious injuries and had already been taken for medical care. A few of them were killed. Bucky took note of the injuries and losses to ensure those employees and their families were well taken care of.

The Asgardians hadn't lost anyone here but Thor's death, especially followed so closely after Syf was taking a toll.

Steve told Bucky that Loki had been particularly vicious and noted that the blood on Loki wasn't his own.

Pierce and Dreykov were bound in metal chairs while the Barnes and the Asgardians decided what to do with them. Bucky and Loki were in agreement that whatever was done needed to be slow and painful. They were to be held at one of the Barnes offices and guarded by their most trusted men.

Loki looked to Bucky "Is she alright? I know Thor's death must be extraordinarily painful for her. They were quite close" he coughed.

Bucky shook his head "I don't know. Physically she's alright but she's blaming herself. She's been through so much recently."

Loki looked at him intently "Then you had better be sure you take good care of her. I'm not as close to her as Thor but she is quite dear to me. You don't wish to make an enemy of me, Barnes. I hope that we will be able to work together once the smoke clears."

Bucky nodded "I'll do my best, I'm not exactly her favorite person right now but I'll do anything I can to protect her. I'm sure we'll be able to work something out."

Loki nodded "Right. I must leave and get started with the" he choked up a little "arrangements." He took a deep breath "I could use a bit of sleep as well. I'd like to meet tomorrow, or later today, to discuss what will be done with those two" he gestured towards the men who were bound.

Bucky nodded "We can meet at my parents for dinner tonight, if you want to see Y/N she is there for the foreseeable future."

Loki nodded and left with Heimdal.

Bucky looked around again "Where is Pietro?" He asked apprehensively.

Steve sighed "Taken to the hospital but stable, last I heard. I'm not sure what his injuries are but he may have been shot."

Bucky let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He didn't want Y/N to lose anyone else she cared for.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Barnes home, Y/N was starting to wake and could see the start of the sunrise through the bedroom window. When she realized where she was everything came rushing back painfully. She remembered Thor's still body next to the SUV she was in and Val refusing to let her go to him. It felt like she was punched in the chest and the air was knocked out of her.

Her mother heard her gasping and started to stir "Y/N, honey? Are you ok?"

Y/N just stared at her mother, unable to breathe.

Her mother moved to sit on the bed next to her and started gently rubbing her back until the panic attack passed. Once Y/N was breathing steady again her mother pulled her into a tight hug and Y/N was able to relax. The feel and scent of her mother soothed her.

Y/N pulled back "When did you get here, Mama?'

Her mother smiled " Winnie called me after James brought you here and I can right away."

"Did you sleep in that chair? You must be sore, you should have asked Winnie for the guest room."

Her mom smiled softly "Winnie offered but I needed to be here. I get the impression we are expected to stay here for a couple of days, until everything settles."

Y/N nodded "Even if we stay here there's plenty of work to be done. I'm sure we lost people last night and we need to make sure their families are taken care of. Same with the injured.

Has anyone heard from them?"

Her mother shook her head "I don't know dear but you should get more rest before you worry about business."

"I know you're just worried about me Mama but I can't just lay around when so much needs to be figured out." She squeezed her mother's hand "I'm going to take a shower. You didn't happen to bring me any clean clothes did you?"

Her mother nodded "Of course dear, only comfortable clothes. If any of your business associates have a problem with you dressing casually you can just remind them.you are the boss" she winked at her daughter which pulled the tiniest smile from her.

Y/N went to take her shower, which took way too long with only one arm. At the hospital she had help bathing but this was just ridiculous. At one point she was crying and cussing, then laughing hysterically at the whole situation. Getting dressed wasn't much better, she gave up on putting a bra on and settled for a t-shirt and sweats. She hoped Tony would have a prosthesis ready when she was healed enough because this was going to get old, fast. When she finally stepped out of the bathroom she could smell bacon and coffee so headed downstairs.

In the kitchen she found her mother and Winnie cooking enough to feed a small army.

Winnie heard her first and looked up with a smile "Good morning, Y/N. You look much better than when you got here last night. Hungry?"

Y/N nodded "I honestly don't really remember much from yesterday. Just flashes. It's probably for the best, I don't think it's a day I want to remember." She accepted a cup of coffee her mother offered, already how she likes it. "Besides, there's too much to be done. Without knowing details I'm sure that yesterday shifted the balance of power and we will need to step in before some crazy tries to come in and take over" she set the coffee on the table, grabbed a plate, filled it and sat down to eat.

Winnie and her mother looked on concerned until her mother spoke up. "Sweetheart, you don't need to deal with all that yet, you need to take some time to heal. I'm sure George, James and Pietro can manage for a couple of days without you."

Y/N took a deep breath, knowing her mother was only concerned for her, and tempered her response "Mama, I know you're worried about me but I'm the boss now and have to do my job. I don't even know if Pietro is still alive or able to work. Even if he is I can't just foist my business off on them because I'm grieving. You both know how things work and if I show weakness, someone will try to push me off of my mountain and I'm not having that."

After a moment a look of concern crossed her face "Where's Wanda?" When her mother and Winnie indicated they didn't know she shook her head and quickly resumed eating.

She finished her breakfast, clumsily rinsing the plate, over her mother and Winnie's objections, and put it in the dishwasher. "I need to make some calls" Refilled her coffee and went to get her phone.

Her first call was Pietro but it went to voicemail. She pushed back the bad feelings and called Wanda, also voicemail. Then she tried to call George who also didn't answer. Winnie confirmed she had heard from him earlier and he was fine.

Y/N took another breath to calm herself before she tried to call Steve who finally answered "Y/N? Is everything ok?"

"I was calling to ask you that. What's it look like there?"

Steve mumbled something she couldn't understand.

"What? Steve stop mumbling"

"I said you should talk to Bucky."

She growled softly "I don't want to talk to him right now. I need to know the status of my people. George, Pietro and Wanda didn't answer so here we are.

Is Pietro alright? Loki?"

Steve sighed and updated her on her peoples status. " You know, Bucky is fine in case you're interested."

"Yes, Winnie already told me but he's not my concern.

When you have a minute can you talk to George about meeting later today."

Steve nodded even though she couldn't see him "There will be a crowd at dinner tonite, Loki has already agreed to come."

Y/N was distracted by banging on the front door and saw Val pull out her gun and go to open it. When she opened the door and aimed at the person in front of her before actually looking to see who it was, the shouting almost made Y/N laugh.

"Hey, Hey! Easy. I come in peace to check on my goddaughter."

Y/N contained her giggles "Val! It's ok, Tony is family"

Val lowered her gun and stepped aside so Tony, Pepper and Happy could come in. Tony straightened his suit, harumphing about it being too early to have a gun in his face.

He looked around and stopped when he saw Y/N then rushed to hug her "Jesus kid, you gotta stop scaring me like this. I'm too old for this shit."

"I'm alright Tony, just trying to get my bearings and figure out what's next."

Tony pulled back and looked at her. "Well you look like Hell" and smirked at her.

Pepper protested "Tony!"

"Very funny, Tones."

Steve who was sitting on the other end of the line "Y/N? Do you need anything else from me? I think we're done here, should be home in an hour or so."

"No, I'm good. We'll see you in a bit."

Tony looked at her seriously "Are you sure you're alright? We heard about Thor and-"

Y/N shook her head "I don't want to talk about him" and shut down emotionally, causing concern for her family.

"We need to focus on getting our family and her allies organized so we know who is what. There will be plenty of time to grieve but business first."

Winnie and her mother looked at each other, then Tony with concern. He shrugged and hoped Y/N would allow herself to work through it all. Without a word the three agreed to keep a close eye on her.

Winnie started making sandwiches for lunch, knowing that they would be hungry and tired when they made it home. She also put in an order with George's favorite Italian restaurant to deliver dinner. She didn't want to have to worry about cooking when her husband would need her.

When George, Steve and Bucky arrived they were all tired and messy from the fight. They sat down to eat and gave Y/N all the details then went to take showers and rest for awhile before the remaining families descended on the Barnes residence to work out what comes next.

Chapter 16

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes fanfiction #james bucky barnes x reader #james bucky barnes #bucky barnes x you #angst with a happy ending #mob!au #bucky barnes x natasha romanoff #thor x reader #arranged marriage #guarded heart

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