#i'd be too worried that people couldn't find me honestly

[resident-idiot-simp]

Fuck the idea of the X-Men being concerned about their Logan after hearing about the new Logan and Deadpool won't leave my head.

This Logan is so violent and feral him and Deadpool have done unspeakable things to one another and enjoy it. They HAVE to wonder if their Logan was stopping himself from doing similar stuff.

The professor had said before his thoughts were pretty dark and Jean had seen stuff that had spooked her which lead to lots of distance between them multiple times. She had admitted to others it unnerved her because of just how violent some of it was. She has worried about those he was close to because of it.

Logan had been upset after that because he couldn't help it. It was just how his brain worked.

This Logan however was so much worse. It was beyond disturbing for Jean who had told the others. After this discovery the questions started.

Did their Logan deep down think and feel this way? Was this normal or was this Logan just different? Jean could confirm that in retrospect some of this was definitely in their Logan, but it was hard to say how much.

Maybe theirs had suppressed it well enough you would have to dig to find these thoughts. This Logan was much more animal then theirs was or was it that this Logan just isn't hiding it.

Deadpool has commented on it when asked saying this Logan was less worried about being himself and he loved it. One quote that got passed around was of him saying. "He's a feral he should be acting like this it's natural, do you guys just not know that? A bit pathetic considering this is a school."

That had caused quite a bit of ruckus considering the implications. Sure ferals existed and everyone knew they were more animal then human, but with them being as rare as they were you didn't see them often. Lots of people had only heard stories about them. Hearing and experiencing were two different things and Logan had always seemed pretty tame... Or at least compared to this new one.

When questioned on how he knew how ferals were supposed to act he laughed, "I'm a merc where do you think they go when you goody two-shoes won't take them in because they're too disturbing for you?" This statement too caused a lot of upset.

Deadpool seemed to have a lot of answers If they were true or not it was hard to tell and impossible to determine considering he didn't like sharing. He was insane sure but he seemed to always be right on things he went out of his way to predict or point out.

Someone eventually asked if the old Logan was the same, which had (for the first time the X-Men head ever seen) silenced him. It took him a while as he thought over the question before answering.

"Yes and no, no because If you train yourself out of habits and thought processes they usually die down. However if he just didn't stop himself he would be the exact same. Which honestly would have been better."

When asked to explain why exactly it would be better to be like the new Logan, Deadpool had looked...sad.

"Are you telling me you would rather live a life that's not really you? To be inauthentic just to fit other people's ideals? To change yourself so much that you become practically unrecognizable to the person you were?"

Silence followed that as wide eyes took in wisdom from the unlikely source.

"That's a sad life to live knowing everyone likes that inauthentic version of you better. That you can never be yourself and are shamed when you try to be. That's a damn travesty."

No one knew how to respond and Deadpool had just shrugged, "That's not a life I'd want to live, that I'd want anyone to live." He threw in before walking off to find his Logan and daughter who....oh...was that why Laura always seemed to hate this place?

(x)

[noblehouseofgay]

Polyjuice

Black Brothers microfic

Mentioned jegulus and wolfstar

Hurt/comfort

Based on this post by @yesiamprocrastinating but dw I gave it a happy ending

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

Regulus had died two years ago. Or at least that's what people thought. In reality, Regulus had faked his death and has been living off polyjuice ever since. He works at a bar, one hidden away from the usual crowds and chaos. It's quiet, he honestly enjoys it.

Except tonight. Because tonight. His brother is a customer. He hadn't even seen him first come in, only felt a strange chill down his back. When he turned around to see the familiar figure, he dropped a glass.

"You alright there, mate?" Gods, he hadn't heard his brother's voice in so long. He'd missed it.

Truthfully Regulus had planned to find his brother again after he faked his death. Tell him the truth, make amends. But Sirius had moved on. He had a good life. Regulus couldn't bring himself to ruin it, not again.

"Yes. The glass just slipped." He bent down, cleaning the shards up, trying to keep his hands from shaking. When he stood back up, he looked everywhere but at Sirius. "What can I get you?"

"Something strong, your choice." Regulus nodded.

And then he had a terrible idea. One of his worst yet. This might be his only chance to talk to his brother again. Even if it was with the face of a stranger, he couldn't miss the opportunity.

"Rough night then?" He started mixing a drink, one he knew Sirius used to like.

"Family stuff, always such a fucking mess, y'know?"

"I do. Believe me....I do." Turns out, Regulus was in the mood to make terrible choices tonight. "You have any siblings?"

Sirius nodded. It felt like a light was flickering back on in Regulus' chest. "I did...I- I do. A brother."

"What's his name?"

"James."

Regulus swore his heart stopped in that moment.

He felt like his entire body was going to collapse into itself. Maybe he should've actually died. That would've been better than this.

He bit his lip, hands shaking. He shoved the drink towards Sirius, letting liquid slosh over the side. "Don't lie. It's unbecoming." His voice was venom, using the words their mother had used against them both so many times.

Regulus ripped off his apron and stormed off to the back room, reaching for the door to the alley behind the bar. He gasped for air as the chill of outside hit him.

He threw the apron at a wall and fell to his knees.

It doesn't matter if he was alive or dead. Regulus meant nothing to his brother.

He choked out sobs, digging his nails into his arms. What was even the point anymore? Yes he had lived, but what for?

"You made a mistake, using her words." Sirius was in the alley now. Regulus didn't look. "It's really you...isn't it?"

"Does it matter? I'm not your brother." Regulus dragged himself to his feet, wiping away tears with his sleeve.

"Yes you are, Reg."

"Well I wasn't two minutes ago apparently. Just because you found out I'm alive doesn't change what you said. Dead or alive, James is still my replacement."

Sirius sighed. "Did you even stop to consider I didn't say you because it hurt too much?"

"THEN HURT! I'D RATHER THAT THAN FEELING LIKE YOU FORGOT ME!" His words broke as they came out, he stared at his brother, tears making him blurry. Regulus leaned against the wall, using it so he didn't fall again.

Sirius slowly walked closer. "Reg...why didn't you come find me? I mourned you. I thought I'd lost you for good."

Regulus stared at his brother. He sighed. "I was going to. I really was." Regulus worried at his lip. "But you seemed happy. And I had ruined that once before, I couldn't let myself do it again."

Regulus took a breath in, closing his eyes as he felt the polyjuice wear off. He looked up at his older brother with his own eyes once again.

Sirius' face softened, taking in the sight of his little brother once more.

In a blink, Regulus felt Sirius' arms around him. He froze, he had forgotten what this had felt like. But the feeling quickly felt familiar as he pushed his face into his brother's shoulder. The smell and warmth of his brother felt like home, something he hadn't known since Sirius ran away.

"Come to my flat," Sirius spoke quietly, gently even, like he did when they were kids hiding under the sheets at night, "we'll talk...we'll catch up....because I am not losing you again, Reggie. Never again."

Regulus nodded, body still sagging into his brother's embrace. Sirius kissed his head and helped him stand.

They walked out of the alley in a comfortable silence. "Remus lives with me, but if I remember right, you liked him. I think he'll be happy to know you're alive."

Regulus was always fond of Remus, they were similar in a lot of ways. It would be nice to see him again.

"I'll have to see James again too won't I...." Sirius laughed a little. "Yeah, probably." Sirus had a sly smile. "But you might be happy to know he's single."

Regulus' eyes went wide and his face flushed. He shoved away from his brother. "I do not care if that oaf is single or not."

Sirus laughed. "Yeah, sure, Reggie. I know you hated him at one point, but I also know what your 'hate' can be a disguise for."

Regulus rolled his eyes and scowled. "I hate him. End of story."

Sirius ruffled his hair. "Keep telling yourself that, Reggie."

[ladyloveandjustice]

To give my Real Opinion on the whole Clark vs Lois issue (since people are giving me theirs), I'm surprised it is an issue, since it's very clearly supposed to be an conflict where both people made decisions that made sense from their point of view but still hurt each other. It makes sense that Clark would be insecure about telling Lois this when she's acting distrustful of Superman, and it makes sense he'd freak out and not handle a situation where she was putting a lot of pressure on him well. It also makes sense that Lois would be angry (and probably humiliated) and upset that Clark not only lied to her face when she was begging him to tell her the truth, but left her where she couldn't help him when she was worried sick about him.

Honestly, I think a lot of you aren't being honest about how you'd feel if you had a friend who disappeared every time something dangerous happened, you spent a lot of time frantically searching and worrying about that friend each time, only to find out oh hey, your friend was well aware of how worried you were and was actually right there but they were pretending to be someone else instead of letting you in on what was happening. You'd feel played with.

And Clark also KEPT lying when she was basically saying "hey stop lying to me. I know." He did it instinctively. She was begging him to tell her, and he didn't. That's going to hurt, and that's going to be galling. She definitely felt she had no other choice than to do something drastic, because she can't enter a relationship with someone she knows is lying to her and here he is, refusing to come clean. She's a reporter, the need to know drives her.

"Lois isn't entitled to Clark's private information, they haven't known each other that long", sure, but Clark vanishes in dangerous situations and causes real distress, Clark has been discussing Superman with Lois and unconsciously trying to manipulate her feelings on him while not telling her the whole truth, and you'd feel weird if someone did that, you'd feel kinda violated! And even if someone told you they weren't doing that to laugh at you, wouldn't you be hurt and humiliated?!

When exactly IS Lois entitled to Clark's info? When they start dating? How many months is it okay for him to date her without him telling her he's actually the guy she spends every waking minute trying to interview? Would he have told her as their relationship got serious? Not knowing that is probably scary and if I was Lois I'd think twice about if I wanted this either!

And what's especially scary is that yeah, he did leave her behind to so he could possibly go get killed when she was begging him not to. That's terrifying. She was probably terrified the entire time she waited. He was able to take her choice away from her, and Lois does not like feeling helpless. Clark was scared of her getting hurt, so he enforced his will and so shewas scared for HIM. and then he refused to talk about those worries!

It's also pretty galling when she's already helped him out in several fights- she's proven she can be useful and helpful! I'd be mad too! I'm sure there was a little vindictiveness in her actions- you see how you like it when someone takes your choice away too.

At the same time, Clark is clearly not comfortable showing people his whole self. He still doesn't know who he is, and he goes into panic mode about it. He's very scared of people being hurt because of him. What he did made sense from his point of view. And I'm sure he's not happy to be forced to reveal his secret.

It doesn't matter 'who's more right'. It's not a game they get to win! They both violated each other's boundaries. Their feelings both make sense from their perspective, and interesting conflicts are complicated. And I like it when characters don't just react to everything flawlessly. There's a lot of drama in secret identities, and sometimes stories have conflict.

I do agree this should have happened later in the season or as a season 2 thing, but that's sadly just life in this streaming hell era. They didn't know if they'd get a season 2 to tell the story they wanted. We have to take the conflict as it is. And let's face it, if Lois had taken longer to figure out, y'all would be making fun of her for being dumb. Lois is for some reason always the butt of that joke even though nobody else can see Clark is Superman either- and when she does figure it out (as she usually does!) and has anything other than positive feelings about it she still gets blamed. Just enjoy having a character who can have complex feelings.

If you hate relationship conflict, there's stuff for you out there! Read Superman Family Adventures by Art Baltazar, it's very cute low stakes low conflict stuff and has an actual Himbo Clark.

[worlds-worst-ships]

Do you ship it? (I'm back)

"Hey Jack, where have you been?"

Click under the cut if you actually give a shit; (if you're just here for polls and don't care what I've been up to, do something else)

For some of the time, I've been working on my YouTube channel which you can click here to have a look at, if you care. I'd appreciate a sub or two.

And for the rest of it... honestly? I've not been up to much. My eating habits have become disordered again so I've been trying to work on that, my life is in the absolute shit and the only thing I can really do is hope and pray I find something to keep a roof over my head up until I die while dealing with the fairly regular realization that the only reason people have magically started being nice to me these last few months is because my avatar is fucking gorgeous. Don't worry, I don't really care, I came into this knowing that would be the case.

I want to sort my eating out and I wanna pick somewhere to end up, but when you don't really give much of a shit whether you live or die, that's something that you can't exactly just do, yknow? I mean, go ahead, leave a half-assed comment telling me it's gonna be ok, tell me its all in my head, tell me whatever you want, but unlike you, some of us have to just fucking deal with it. No matter what you have to say, its too little too late. The reality is that for some people, like myself, that picket-fence life where you're surrounded by people who love you, or anything close to that, is a fucking pipe dream and trying to build a life around that despite having it promised to you for as long as you can remember is gonna pull me away from other things that I do, the blog included. Even getting up in the morning is a massive eyeroll, because what am I gonna even get up for? The fuck am I gonna do today? Nothing valuable, that's what.

So sorry, every now and then, I might have a few days to a week off. I try and be active in other online spaces, but fucking hell, do they make it difficult, especially since I'm a vtuber. You'd think other vtubers would be open to me being there, but as you can see from my total follower account, I'm worth fuck all to them. Hell, there's no point in me getting buddy-buddy with them anyway. Do you have any idea how insanely powerful these people are? They could fucking wreck my life with one word, one jiggle of their tits, one pout, and they know it. People will break their arms to help a vtuber who couldn't give two shits they exist, and that's a type of power I don't wanna deal with again. Not worth it.

So yeah. Life is in the shit. Now I just have to find a way to anchor down until I really just can't be fucked anymore and give up altogether.

[insertsomthinawesome]

AIGHT 2 People said they'd be interested in seeing it so here it is!! ^^^^ Left is the old one ^^^ Right is the New one So the old one isn't bad per-se. Just to clarify. I was having a massive issue with the colors not looking right (the shadows are kinda yellowy and red-ish Purple-ish when they should be more blue I believe) and I couldn't find a quick fix for it. After thinking it over i just decided to start over cause there were already other things I wasn't as happy with. The fact that the view point doesn't really focus DOWN on them, but is at this angle which incidentally seems to lead your eye up into the upper left Angle Caelus's Face wasn't exactly too my liking, nor was March's. I wanted March's hair to a LOT more spread out and messy. Her arm pointing up towards the stars felt kinda odd and out of place, it feels like its stealing a disproportionate amount of the Canvas. And most importantly I wanted it to have a sorta, whimsical, magical feel to it? And while the first one is Good ART it feels a lot more grounded. a Lot more like a photograph if you will. This isn't a perfect 1 to 1 since the New One is completely rendered while the Old One never even got that far. But this gives you an idea of what happened!! Honestly I'm really happy I took the time to re-do the whole dang thing. It was intimidated, I tend to worry about getting stuck and never getting back to things. But the New one honestly didn't take me very long, and I'd made enough mistakes I was discontent with on the old one that it felt like starting over would be more worth it in the end. And I ended up being right so! WHOO HOOO!!! SLDFJSDLKJGLSDGS Anyways thats all from me o7 Thanks two the individuals who enabled me alsdjfLKJGSD I appreciate the interest :D

[rainybubbles]

Silent- Gaz x plus size reader

Summary : Finding a way to relieve the stress of work in a DnD discord, Gaz meets Silent. A player whose microphone is always turned off, using chat only. Maybe he'll find a way to break the silence with them and finds why their mic is off…

(Sorry in advance, English is not my first language, so sorry if it's bad or OOC.)

-TW social anxiety.

-"What a quiet kid you've got there. I wish mine was as calm at home."

-"Oh, you know, they're pretty mature for their age."

-The laughter faded into distant murmurs as I glanced over at the other kids.

-Yelling, chasing, breaking a vase or two—my eyes couldn't look away from them.

-They seemed to inhabit a world entirely different from mine.

-A world where scraping by at month's end, nightly dinners, locking up the house, solo bus rides, laundry routines, and helping siblings with homework simply didn't exist.

-Because, after all, they were just eight years old.

- But so was I…

-So why didn't I have the right to have fun, yell, chat, ask for sweets, act immature, or doodle on walls?

- My hand reached out briefly, hoping for a connection, but my mom's glance quickly reminded me to stay put…

-Being silent seemed to be the key to earning praise and keeping peace.

-So, I stifled that urge, withdrawing into myself, standing alone behind her legs, engulfed in a heavy silence.

____________

"Silent, huh?"

-My gaze drifted slowly to the chat.

-"Yeah, dude, they're usually a regular on Thursdays. Never says a word, their mic's busted, can't afford to fix it," one of the guys responded.

-The tone carried a hint of disdain.

-I felt out of place.

-Yet, I stayed put, unable to leave the server.

-It was the only place where I felt I could express myself.

-Through words, carefully chosen, controlled, retyped, erased, and sculpted to bring a story to life—a space where my imagination, so often overlooked, could finally roam free.

-By chance, I'd become enamored with Dungeons and Dragons.

- The only snag, of course, was the void in my social life.

-So, like figuring out how long it takes to cook broccoli, I scoured the internet.

- Discord groups organized sessions. I panicked at the sound of mics, voices.

- What would they think of me? What should I say? What could I do? And then someone asked if my mic was broken.

- Ever since, I'd stayed that way, and the nickname Silent stuck.

"Hi Silent, then :) I'm Kyle aka Gaz."

-Usually, I ignored introductions.

- People interested me little, their characters were the interesting ones.

-However, Gaz hadn't spoken those words aloud.

- He had written them. It was stupid honestly, but few people wrote back to me, few people responded to me in writing.

-Everything was done orally.

-Suddenly, someone was on my turf, reaching out.

-The campaign proceeded as usual.

-My thoughts were focused on my actions, the dice rolls, and the resulting outcomes.

- Yet occasionally, I let my eyes wander over Gaz's profile.

________________

-"Hello guys, I don't know if I've played with some of you before or not. "

-"Don't worry, we accept everyone. The days are rarely fixed."

-Gaz was back. It was Friday. It was my favorite group, the game master Ylias really managed to transport you.

-"Well, I'll start then-"

-Ylias started rambling, I followed the story when I noticed a notification in the discord. My finger brushed it, and then ignored it.

-What would he think if I clicked now? that I'm a friendless attention-seeker? But if I wait, they'll think I don't care about the campaign?

-So I waited 5 minutes, trying to find the right balance between the two.

-"Hey, Silent. I missed a campaign without you, the others keep on rambling about their athletics, last time I even had a guy mimicking a goblin with his mic, I'm glad to see you back in text :) !!!"

-Pressure flooded over me. What should I reply? A heart? Thanks? Ignore it? Tell him he's nice too?

-"Thanks."

-Too cold, too short. I thought it wrong, I should delete it, rephrase it, add a smiley, make it warmer, he must think I'm a monster.

-"I think we should try opening the door, are you coming with me? I don’t feel like going into the forest with the rest of the team."

-Oh. Usually in campaigns, I go with the flow, I heal and stay in the background. I never-

-"You need a score of 13 for that, folks". Ylias said.

-"Come on, Silent, roll the dice." Gaz replied

-Nervously, my mouse hovered over the virtual dice. With a score of 15 showing, I heard Gaz's laughter.

-"I knew we had to do it! Let’s go, plus with your stealth, impossible to get spotted. "

-"We'll see about that." Ylias replied, laughing.

-And just like that, Gaz made me smile. It was probably one of the worst campaigns, but it was the first where I could finally choose my actions.

__________________________

-"Back again :) ?"

-" Yes."

-Dry, too dry.

-"I was waiting for you. "Gaz replied.

-" Why? "

-"I don’t want to play a campaign without you, you bring me luck."

-" I'm not sure about that. "

-"Yes. I tried a campaign with colleagues, we died blowing up. "

-"Probably because of your colleagues. "

-"Okay, maybe my colleague set fire to a mystery barrel. But it was their first campaign. "

-"You're recruiting? "

-"Introducing them. He's trying to quit smoking, and I thought DnD could occupy his free time."

-I stopped myself.

-Curiosity, imagination, everything overwhelmed me.

-What was it like to be close to colleagues like this, to freely discuss your passions, to laugh…

-"And then?"

-" It's not his thing, he's more into action. "

-"I see. "

-"It's not for everyone. "

-"Is it your thing? "

-"What? "

-"To let off steam? If your colleague needs it, so do you, right?"

-Stupid. Too personal a question. Invasive.

-"Yes. It allows me not to think, to be someone else."

-" Me too."

-" Plus, being an elf is great."

-" You say that because I am one."

-" Maybe. "

-"Thank you. "

-"For? "

-"Talking in chat. People usually ignore me outside of campaigns, they don't respond by text."

-" They ignore the sexiest elf?"

-" There's no image, you don't know what I look like"

-". Hm, exactly! I imagine your elf tall, muscular like the Rock, hair like Gordon Ramsay's, and maybe makeup like Ru Paul's."

-" I'm not sure about the result. "

-"Sexy."

-I snorted at my screen.

-"Ok."

-" How do you imagine me? "

-"Your wizard? "

-"Yes. "

-"With long hair, maybe dreadlocks, white eyes, and a smile. "

-"A smile?"

-" Your voice sounds soothing. "

-"Really? "

-"Yes, sorry, it's weird to say that, I shouldn't have."

-" No. No. I've never been told that, I was just surprised, that's all."

-" I see. "

-"So, a sexy elf and a smiling mage.

-"Sounds like the beginning of a weird porno."

-He responded with a meme.

_________________________

-"So, what do we decide, Silent? Honestly, I don't want to raid the goblin but the vampire to face, I'm sure the score will be high." Gaz asked through his mic

-"It's your choice, not mine."

-"they're right, Gaz, this one's all on you," Ylias said.

-"Can't I even ask for help?"

-"Score of 15 in insight to spot an ally." Ylias announced.

-Gaz scored a 10. No one addressed me throughout the campaign.

________________________

-"Back, Gaz?" someone said.

-Three weeks of radio silence.

-My mind had been looping, wondering if my refusal to break the rules had driven him to find a more interesting group, a more exciting duo.

-But there he stood, his username glowing green.

-"Yeah, I finally got some days off."

-"Good for you, man."

-"So spill, I see some new names and all!"

-Strangely, his voice had become grating to me. I didn't understand why, so before he could reach me, I disconnected.

- Alone in my apartment, I held my knees to my chest.

-Why am I reacting like this? He's entitled to a life, damn it.

-I fet like he...gave me up.

-Shit it's stupid.

-I didn't understand. I tried to calm myself, but the deafening silence of my apartment seemed to slowly engulf me, and before I knew it, I found myself in a new spiral of anxiety.

____________________________

-There were no campaigns. I just liked reading. Reading what had happened. Living vicariously, imagining their voices, their reactions.

-"hey :)"

-The off-campaign tab was blinking.

-He was addressing me, I knew it, I was the only one online with him.

-My thumb grazed the notification, but I ended up entering the chat.

-"hey."

The period was too harsh, too dry.

-"It's been a while! Something happened?"

-"Work." I answered.

-That's a lie.

- But lying is like oxygen, it's easy to come up with excuses to avoid others.

-But harder to let go of it to face the potential risks of social suffocation.

-"I know quite a bit, just got back from mine."

-"At 1 am?"

-"Yep."

-"Cook?"

"Soldier."

-A shiver ran through me. Uniforms had never been positive in my life.

- As the long seconds passed, I hesitated.

-"Not a fan?" Gaz asked.

-"You could say that."

-"Military family?"he asked.

-"yes."

-"I see."

-"Sorry, that's stupid."

-"No, I understand, I mean, we all have red flags." He said.

-"It's not a red flag."

-"You'd been quiet for 5 minutes."

-"With everyone." I answered.

-"Everyone?"

-"I'm not the best at socializing."

-"Really? Yet when you blew up a castle instead of talking to the princess in a campaign, it seemed normal to me." He joked.

-A laugh escaped.

-"And you?" he asked.

-"Me?"

-"Your job?"

-"Proofreader."

-"For books?"

-"Yes, I read, annotate, and correct."

-"No humans."

-"Exactly."

-"Would you like to add me? I'm not super comfortable with everyone seeing this."

-"Why?"

-Stupid. I should have accepted without questioning.

-"To prevent everyone from knowing the secrets of the sexiest elf on the discord."

-Always there to catch my blunders.

-I accepted it even though suddenly there was added pressure, what to say when there's a pause?

_____________

-"A dragon arrives and—"

-My eyes glanced at my notifications. Kyle was in the campaign but—

-"The narration is terrible, isn't it? The guy has been stuck on the dragon for thirty minutes while Théis killed it."

-He was writing to me. Like someone whispering in your ear during class.

-"Yes, Roxanne is a beginner, but she'll get there."

-"So kind."

-"Not really, one day I insulted a game master."

-"Oooh, a gangster among us?"

-"Never, besides, you'd arrest me, wouldn't you?"

-The ellipses seemed to linger.

-"I wouldn't mind."

-Oh.

-"I don't want to end up in a secret government cave."

-"Caves are old school, we have containers now."

-"I don't know if you're joking."

-"Classified."

-"Gaz…"

-"I'll keep the secret, I think you won't have a choice but to be arrested by me someday."

-"… it won't happen."

-"Why?"

-"I haven't committed any crimes."

-"Not even indecent exposure? I thought you were 45 years old and hiding in bushes naked."

-"For that, I'd have to leave my house."

-"Quite the homebody?"

-"You could say."

-"I'm the same, I don't like going out much."

-It's different. I didn't know what to add, so I let him continue the conversation.

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

-"Still into your nerd stuff?"

-Gaz looked up at Soap.

-"It's not nerd stuff." Gaz said.

-"Dragon, princess, elf, discord all mixed together. It's nerd stuff. "Ghost replied

-"Dressing up as a skeleton at Hot Topic too, L.t."

-"Ooh, I wouldn't have liked that. "Soap laughed. "But seriously, don't you think about doing it for real? I mean, gathering around a table."

-"They think about it, but we all live in different parts of the world."

-But it would be amazing. Maybe he could even hear Silent's voice, see them…

-"Hm." Johnny said with a smirk

-"What?"

-"It sounds like you have someone in mind."

-"I don't have anyone in mind."

-"Not even an elf you get along with, Garrick?" Ghost retorted

-"I- we're a duo, it

-"It's different."

-"I mean it, we just get along."

-"So if you check discord in a military bar at 11 p.m., it's not to reply to him second by second?"

-"Shut up," Gaz said as the two laughed.

__________________________

-"You're not participating anymore?"

-I ignored his message.

-Three months.

-Three long months of descent, of confinement, of discomfort, of crises.

-Everything was too much.

-Crowds, outside, errands, people.

-My lungs constricted at the thought of meeting someone's gaze. My eyes avoided every contact. My lips were dry from lack of words.

-"I admit that campaigns suck without you," he had written.

-That was two weeks ago.

-"I refused to play with Théo, he wanted to take your place," he had sent.

-That was three months ago.

-"The office GIF."

-Three weeks.

-He… Gaz had never stopped.

-No matter the views, the winds, his boldness didn't stop.

-I was confused.

-Usually, people quit after a month.

-They had better things to do, and I understood. The burden of my social anxiety was mine and shouldn't inconvenience them.

-So why was Gaz standing there carrying this burden unknowingly? Coming back every day, bearing a heavier load…

-"hey."

-Three letters.

-Too short.

-Too dry.

-"Sorry." I continued.

-For what?

-I didn't deserve his forgiveness, I knew it.

-"Glad to see you're back :)" he replied.

-A tear rolled down my cheek.

-"thank you." I replied by text.

-For staying.

-For not asking questions.

-For welcoming me.

______________

-"Sorry, I was at the hospital, do you think I can join the campaign or not?" he had sent.

-My eyebrows raised.

-"No. Wait, you're just out of the hospital and your concern is DnD?"

-"I should really stay by my favorite elf's side."

-"Gaz, seriously, are you okay?"

-"Fractured ribs."

-"Ouch."

-"Broken arm."

-"Wait, what—"

-"And a bullet in the thigh."

-"Wtf."

-"But I'm fine."

-"No."

-"I assure you, I've had worse."

-"And???? You need to rest, not focus on rolling dice to defeat Mindflyers."

-"…but I have no distractions."

-"I'm here."

-"You're in the campaign."

-"No."

-"Wait, what—"

-"I- I saw you were absent so I didn't…join that one."

-"But you only play on that day."

-"I know. But it's not the same without you."

-I didn't know he was currently smiling like an idiot.

-"Thanks, Silent."

-"No worries. Besides, I was also coming out of the hospital."

-"WHAT?! Why didn't you start with that?!"

-"It's ridiculous."

-"No, are you okay?"

-"It's awkward."

-"Oh, serious awkward or-?"

-"No, I'm used to it. I- I took the tram and I couldn't handle it, the crowd was too big, I passed out inconveniencing a hundred people, embarrassing."

-"That's not embarrassing."

-"Yes, I made people late, Gaz."

-"And??? It was for your health."

-"No, I should've known I couldn't handle taking the tram. It's been two years since I couldn't do it, I shouldn't have tried again."

-"Two years?"

-Shit. I said too much.

-"Forget that."

-"Wait, no. You help distract me when I'm on base, I can listen to you in return :)! "

-"There's nothing to say, I don't handle social stuff, that's all."

-"So, your mic, that's it?"

-"Yes."

-"My sister has it too."

-"Has what?"

-"Social anxiety."

-"I see."

-"I know it's different for everyone, but don't give up. Honestly, it's a huge step, right? Taking the tram after two years. Surely you wouldn't succeed all at once, I mean it's like rolling a 20-sided die hoping for a 35."

-I snorted.

-"Nerd."

-"You're a nerd too, Silent."

-"yes, I- I just thought I could succeed, tell myself I could do it."

-"You did it."

-"I passed out."

-"So what? next time can't be worse."

-"Yes, if I have another one."

-"Then you'll have another one, I'm sure you'll manage. Look, I can even show you a tutorial."

-I furrowed my brows and saw a video. A man in an apartment, a cast on one arm, his face cut off from the frame.

-"Quick tutorial for falling on a tram. So lesson 1, stand next to a tall person. We want a good pillow when we fall, so tall people are perfect. Then manage the fall. Fall on the person, not forward. We want to avoid a bloody nose. Especially if there are vampires on the horizon." Gaz said in the video.

-He lay on the ground pretending to fall.

-"Step three, play dead to see sexy firefighters and avoid stares, and step 4 get taken home while flexing in the truck."

-I snorted.

-"Wow, thanks for the tutorial."

-"I know, I know. Passing out pro here."

-"Do you often fall on fridges?"

-"Hm, considering the build of my colleagues, you could say that."

-"Are they as tall and wide as a fridge?"

-"My L.T. yes. With Soap, we even thought he was an android, I mean it's not human to be that built."

-"You look fit too."

-"Oh, a compliment?"

-"Gaz, I-"

-"But yes, honestly, I try to do his routine but I think his genetics play a big part."

-"Shame, no Fridge Gaz then."

-"No, you'll have to settle for Normal Gaz."

-A smile slowly spread across my face.

-"Thanks for the video, it was funny."

-"You're welcome. Plus, if I can flex with my favorite elf."

-"I'm not an elf."

-"Nothing proves me wrong."

-"Gaaaaaazzzz"

____________________________

-"Who are you posing for? "

-"No one."

-" So shirtless, sunlight, flexed arms for no one? Damn, don't tell me it's for your mom. "

-"SOAP!"

-" I'm just asking, man."

-" It's for Silent. "

-"Oh, your magical voiceless elf."

-" It's not— "

-"Yes, yes, not a magical elf, I know, no need to give me another DnD lecture."

-Gaz sighed.

-His selfie was good.

-Shirtless, in the sand, sun rising.

-He looked good.

-But he was nervous.

-What if it was too much?

-After all, this little game of sending each other sunrises or sunsets had started by chance.

-Silent had told him the view was beautiful and sent him a sunset from their window.

-Gaz replied with one from Las Almas, and eventually whenever he went to a new country, he would send a photo.

-But now… maybe it was too much?

-Sending his face.

-Price would kill him.

-But he wanted to progress the relationship.

-Maybe his face could appeal to Silent, they would send him a voice note or even a selfie back?

-"Is this too much? "

-"Hm? "Soap asked confused.

-"This photo, is it too much? "

-"For a thirst trap?"

-" To say hello."

-" It depends on the hello. "

-"Hello as in "I'm showing you my face for the first time." "

-"Oh, maybe. I thought it was a "hello, did you sleep well because look what I could bring to your bed" kind of thing. …But if I received this photo, I'd be happy. "

-"Soap. "

-"I mean, man, you're handsome."

-" Soap. "

-"Plus, who would say no to your abs? "

-"No need to- you know what, I'll send it. "

-"Also, you—"

-Gaz ignored him and sent it.

-Damn, he hoped everything would be fine.

________________________

-Beautiful.

-Too beautiful.

-My eyes scanned that smile not knowing what to do.

- How could someone like that end up playing DnD?

-I closed the conversation.

-I am…. Out of his league.

-So much.

-I could barely bring myself to look at my mirror.

-I knew what I would see there.

- My rolls, my thighs, my stretch marks, my horrible hair, this disproportionate face.

-I'm not ugly.

- But I'm not…I'm not like him

-. I'm the second choice, I'm aware of that.

-I don't get free compliments.

- Nobody turns back to look at me. I'm just…there.

-And him.

- He seemed so radiant, so kind. Damn, I wasted his time.

__________________________

-"So? " Soap asked

-"It's been two weeks with no response."

-" Ouch. "

-"It's not— Sometimes it happens, I think they are doubting."

-" Doubting what? "

-"Themselves. They…before every message, they take 5 minutes to rewrite it, every syllable is thought out and then I send this out of nowhere, I didn't handle it well."

-" You couldn't have known, Kyle. "

-"Yes. YES, I could and I messed up. They told me about their anxiety and then I send them a half-naked photo when I've never even heard their voice. "

-"Try to talk to them then. hmph."

_____________________

-"hey."

-My eyes hesitated.

-"hey." I finally replied

-" For the selfie, I can explain. "

-"No, I- it's not your fault."

-" Yes, honestly, I screwed up" he texted back

-". No, I've been looping again. "

-"You- "

-"seeing you, it was…good, really, but too good." I answered.

-" Too good?"

-"I feel- Illegitimate to talk to you. "

-"what- "

-"You're so- beautiful, and smiling and nice, and the only thing I do is disappear for days and turn up out of the blue. I-"

-" And it's okay, we talked about it." he said.

-" But you deserve better as friends."

-" I decide what I deserve, Silent. And no one beats you. "

-"…I- I don't know what to say. "

-"Send me your sunset :) I haven't had mine."

-Damn. A tear rolled down and I took my phone and sent my sunset. How can someone be so adorable?

-"Perfect." he replied

_________________

-He had continued to send his face on the sunsets. It was stupid, but I waited every time he could and I rewatched them.

-However, it had been three months of silence. I wasn't worried, he was probably on a mission somewhere.

-By a stroke of courage, I had put my phone down to take a photo with the sunset.

-He wouldn't see it. I would delete it.

-But for a moment, I felt beautiful. The sunlight on me warmed me, my outfit was cute, my curves were beautiful.

-I sent it. I would delete it tomorrow. After all, Kyle had said it could last four months.

___________

-"Hey, everything alright, mate?"

-"They're amazing."

-"Lasswell or tony ? For Lasswell of course, why do you think her wife is—"

-"Look."

-Soap raised an eyebrow and glanced at Kyle's phone.

-"Oh, oh."

-Kyle couldn't tear his eyes away from his screen

-. During the mission return, he had picked up his phone and seen a notification. Clicking out of habit, he saw it.

-their smile, their hair, their body. My god.

-"Lucky bastard." Soap said.

-They were perfect. And their belly, their hips, everything was beautiful. Kyle had always preferred curvy people, it was a fact.

-Sure, he had imagined that silently they could be one, but the fact that it was true… It filled his heart with joy.

-"They… damn. "he murmured, zooming in on every detail.

-Mole or freckle, he observed every pixel.

_____________________

-"So the elf wasn't the only one sexy." he texted.

-I raised an eyebrow at the notification as I woke up.

-"Hm?"

-"The photo. "he replied.

-Oh fuck.

-"You saw it?"

-"Yes, I shouldn't have?"

-"I thought of deleting it before, I—"

-"Oh."

-"But did you like it?"

-"Yes. you— I— honestly, I can't stop looking at it. you look radiant."

-He was lying. -No?

-"And that outfit is amazing on you, really."

-It hugs everything, why… why is he complimenting that?

-Usually, people say "those jeans make you look thinner than you are" "you look better in loose clothes" "hide your rolls".

-"Thank you."

-" I have to admit I'm so relieved. I mean if you ended up being a 40-year-old, I wouldn't have been so confident I think."

-"Oh really, wrinkles and gray hair aren't your thing?"

-"No, I'm more into curves and people my age."

-"Damn, I was about to confess that I was 70 years old". I joked.

-"I can make exceptions, but only for elves."

-"I'm lucky then."

-"Very. I— I hope to have more, or occasionally."

-"Of?"

-"Photos of you, it's more beautiful than a sunset."

"-oh."

-A warmth spread to my cheeks, a smile settling in.

-"ok."

-"ok?"

-"Okay."

___________________

-"Do you think I'll hear your voice someday?"

-It was late, or early for him and late for me.

-"I don't know."

-showing my face in a photo…

-I could control that, take back the photo, delete it, edit it. But talking…

-Talking is taking up space.

-"I imagine it smooth."

-"My voice?"

-"Hm, like a stream, it rocks slowly."

-"I might have a smoker's voice."

-"That would suit you too."

-"Maybe one day then."

-"I'm looking forward to that."

_____________________

-Those were the last words sent from him.

-No more contact.

-His absence wasn't due to missions, he had confessed to me that he was off the day before.

-So he had decided to stop.

-I tried to find excuses, before accepting the reality of it.

-Days passed and I hoped he would come back.

-Maybe he was like me, needing time to recover.

-Maybe he was hurt.

-Everything was silent.

-When four months had finally passed, I understood.

-He had grown tired of the silence. I held back a sob and closed the discussion.

-A stab wound would have been better I think.

-To ease the constant pain and intense questions in my mind.

-What had I done wrong? Was I too much? Did I ask the wrong question? Should I have kept quiet?

-Everything was spinning and I finally closed the app. damn.

_____________________________

-My feet led me to the publishing house.

-Today I had to make the final corrections for Madame Lasswell before her vacation with her wife Kate.

-Hesitant, I knocked on her door.

-An "enter" was heard and I entered the already crowded room.

- A mustached man in a beanie, a masked man, a mullet, Kate, and Gaz were watching me.

-My eyes betrayed my surprise at his presence. What was he doing here? Why now? How should I react?

-"Y/n, sorry for the crowd. I guess you have it."

-"Yes ma'am."

-My voice barely above a whisper was usual for Jocelyn. I handed her the manuscripts.

-"We're going to drink at the bar downstairs, do you want to come?"

-Come? To a crowded place, surrounded by drunk people, constant noise, blinding lights with the icing on the cake being a guy who blew me off for the year?

-"No, I'm busy tonight, sorry."

-"No problem."

-Slowly my heels turned, I took the elevator but I heard footsteps. Kyle was with me.

-"I was on a mission."

-"hm."

-"I know I told you no, but he… there were quite a few problems and I had to leave, I didn't have time to warn you, it dragged on, Ghost broke my phone by sitting on it with his stupid hard ass, and we just got back from the airport actually. Lasswell, Kate finally— she works with us so that's why I'm here"

-A silence stretched, he took a breath.

-"you didn't have to explain… I mean after the word mission, I understood I was wrong."

-"I wanted to be clear."

-"I should have asked and sent you messages."

-"No, it's okay, it must have seemed suspicious. I ask for your voice, you say no, and I disappear. The conclusion was logical."

-"but it wasn't the right one."

-"It's okay, we're here, aren't we?"

-"yes."

-The elevator rang, the door opened. Hesitant, I watched him.

-"I love it." -"hm?"

-"your voice."

-"Oh."

-"I… you're really busy tonight or…"

-"No, I just don't like…"

-"The crowd."he guessed

-"Hm."

-"I— I can invite you for dinner? At my place, we'll grab takeout, no crowds, no one to see us."

-"That sounds like the pitch of a serial killer."

-He widened his eyes. I snorted.

-"Okay, you got me." he chuckled.

-" At your place sounds good. Better than a restaurant." I admitted.

-"Cool, so…"

-"Shall we go then, yes". I murmured as he finally released the elevator button and we stepped out of the elevator.

_________________

-At his place, everything was calm.

-Not me.

-How should I stand? Too close? Too far? What to talk about? And what if I'm boring in the end? What to order? Does he like seafood or is he allergic? My eyes focused on every detail and…

-Everything's fine.

-His hand on mine, he took the initiative for the restaurant to order, asking me my preferences, and we waited for the delivery guy.

-Slowly, he asked questions about my work. I mastered it.

-And slowly everything unfolded naturally.

-Sitting on his couch, his hand not letting go of mine, he drew circles with his thumb while talking.

-I liked that. In groups, I liked… listening.

-People like to talk about themselves and I like listening to that, not participating, and Gaz understood that in such an impressive way.

-Occasionally, he asked questions in return, gauging my desire to speak, I answered and this back and forth held until the food arrived.

-Maybe everything would turn out for the best.

-Standing in front of his door, I didn't know what to add to this evening.

-A not-so-stranger, three years of virtual chat and now I was unable to figure out the right goodbye on his doorstep.

-Hesitant, we observed each other.

-"I hope we'll do this again."

-"Yes. "I replied.

-He stepped forward.

-I remained still, his face close to mine. -Kiss? Cheek? Goodbye? Whisper? -Which action would he choose? -I wished for a dice to decide, a title, or a "Gaz approves".

-"May I?"

-Oh. -I nodded. -His hands on my hips, he placed a brief kiss on my lips. -"I'm glad we managed to break the silence." -"me too."

-Perhaps, after all, I wouldn't return to my solitary silence tonight. His hands guiding me back to his apartment and the door closing behind us.

-I could easily guess that a die had just been thrown for a long evening and we both seemed to have the right score.

If you want more my COD Masterlist

[dumbdomb]

i feel like there's not as many posts about women being predatory in cnc stuff, so even though most of my gender neutral posts are inclusive of women, i thought i'd write something more specific... please reblog! 21+

i hate being in crowds. when people are too close or there are a lot of bodies surrounding me, it's just so uncomfortable. many people are really gross, too! like, unhygienic... so it's always such a relief to see someone wearing a mask, cleaning their hands, and turning their face away from others to cough, etc.

if i have to stand in a long line, at least it's with a cute girl who cares about germs (and smells like soft petals blooming open on a spring evening). there's not much to do in line other than dissociate to the light elevator music playing overhead. each time the line moves up, we seem to get closer, and i realize how often she keeps rummaging around in her small purse. she's fixed her eye makeup a few times now, adjusted her short skirt enough to get anyone's attention (though it doesn't appear like anyone can see, because it's painfully obvious to me), and now she's finally grown bored of checking her phone for the millionth time.

i guess people are frustrated at the long wait time because the crowd finally pushes her up next to me. she apologizes in a clumsy, soft voice, then really begins looking at me once i've turned my view to the front again. she begins to act differently, as if intrigued or maybe just squirming around from standing around so long...

i don't realize when she got brave enough to touch my arm, i thought she just bumped into me again, no problem to worry about. it wasn't until i felt her manicured nails creeping under the hem of my boxy crop top. i turn slightly, and she stops, moving her hand away quickly and quietly apologizing. yet, not a few moments later, i feel her hand returning under my shirt.

she apologizes again, her hand still in place, but this time daring to ask if it's ok... (i think to myself: is what ok?! molesting me in a crowded line!? is she so fucking serious right now?!?) i'm speechless. then, she hesitantly adds, "if it's not, you can just tell me to stop..." she looks up at me, pleadingly, through her long, fluttery lashes. the crowd moves up, and no one cares at all... she just uses that extra push to fully cup her hand completely around my chest!

i honestly don't know what to say or do in this kind of situation. i thought she was really pretty, and i'd considered mustering up the courage to tell her i liked her outfit. i couldn't believe she was paying any attention to me, let alone wanting to touch me! my mind was racing faster than my heart as she squeezed and fondled my big tits in her beautiful hand... (it felt so good!)

soon enough, seconds it seemed like... she managed to get close enough to reach both hands around me and under my shirt. (i doubt it would've made a difference if i'd worn a bra that day, as she'd probably just pull it down to pull my tits out anyway...) i did nothing. i stood there and let this pretty, young woman molest my tits. what else could i have done in that position without making a huge scene...?

she snuggles closer to coo in my ear, "awww, do you like that?" then, she begins caressing and very gently tugging or twisting my stiff nipples. (i must be blushing so hard, i can barely breathe!) the more she plays with my tits, i feel her body press and rub against me. i nearly lose my balance, and my hand accidentally reaches out near her hip or thigh, i'm not really sure...

she gasps and quickly encourages me to lift up her skirt and feel how turned on she is, "i'm not wearing any panties!" she quietly teases. i find my way to the hem of her skirt and slide my hand underneath, while she presses herself into the palm of my hand with such triumphant, girlish enthusiasm. i blink and swallow hard, letting her touch me while i rubbed her out... (how could this be happening to me.)

the last people waiting behind us leave (and my mind is too dizzy to know whether they'd caught on or were just tired of waiting). suddenly, this gorgeous woman moves in front of me, lifts up my shirt, and starts suckling on my tits with such an innocent eagerness!! i'm in shock as she moves my hand back in place under her skirt and twirls her tongue around my exposed, pink nipples, pushing my tits together while looking up at me. "keep going, please...?" she begs, nealry moaning too loud for a public place...

once she cums on my hand, she licks it clean - then actually sprays my hand with her sanitizer. she gives both my nipples an extra pinch before pulling my shirt down into place, as if nothing had happened. she cleans her hands, joyously thanks me, then happily walks through the 'staff only' door. i try to compose myself and deny how aroused that entire event made me. (i could feel how soaked my undies are with each step.)

when i get to the front of the line, she calls me forward. i sheepishly mumble my way through what i was there for, and leave after a totally normal interaction. it's only once i was safe in my car that i realized she may now have my full name, address, and phone number. actually, the text i just got confirmed my worst fear: a photo of what i was touching under her cute skirt. 🩷

[skys-archive]

To me, a very heartbreaking aspect of this election (at least as someone who lives in the deep south) is finding out the sheer number of people who I thought loved me and cared for my safety are happy at the outcome. People I tried to tell about this and what would happen.

My own mother didn't like either candidate from the beginning. I tried to tell her about project 2025 to sway her opinion. She told me those could never pass. She said she couldn't vote for Kamala because she's "basically Biden" to her. She voted for Trump because she thinks he's a smart businessman, and she said she likes Vance.

My own mother, who does genuinely love and care for me and who I have a lovely relationship with, voted for someone who actively wants me dead. For someone who wants her to remain in an abusive relationship she left years ago. Because "they won't pass".

My close friends who know my identity and who I am and I thought respected me for who I am are ecstatic at the results. People I didn't know the political beliefs of are coming out and letting me know they side with someone who wants my death, who wants the erasure of my people.

And honestly, maybe they will have it.

My ex, when I came to him originally about how scared I was of project 2025, thought I was getting upset over nothing. The man who I loved more than anything in this world believed that I was overreacting, that it would all be fine, that it didn't matter. He wasn't there when I was terrified. I almost wish I could look him in the face several months from now and he could see how real my fears are.

Other people like me, other people who are scared like me, are trying to just ignore it. A woman who I don't know too well came up to a group of friends I was with today and went to a couple, a man with his nonbinary partner. She said not to worry, that it was unconstitutional and it wouldn't happen.

This same group of friends discussed it, but it wasn't about fear or what to do now.

I met a friend today, at our usual spot. I was waiting for them, sitting with my head down on the table. I'd only found out a few minutes before. They said my name several times before I looked up. They asked if I wanted a forehead kiss and then led me to the rest of our friends. They said they were scared their father would be deported.

A different friend is probably going to leave their boyfriend. Not necessarily because of him, but definitely due to his friends. They say awful things about people like us every day, and there's certainly a reason their boyfriend hangs out with them.

I sat next to a friend and made fun of a tiktok I saw about Trump, it turned into a velocity edit about halfway through, I thought it was silly. She laughed with me but then said she was "so glad" he won, and doesn't understand why so many of her friends are "in such a mood". Many of her friends are queer.

My black friend is posting videos, jokes about having her rights taken away. I know it's how she's coping. I feel for her, and I understand, but I know I also could never know exactly how she feels.

I'm surrounded by people celebrating, people who I thought wanted me safe. Do they simply not know? Or do they want my death, too? Can they not see how terrified I am, how silent I am now?

I don't know if I should stay out. I hate the idea of using my deadname, of hearing my close friends calling me "she". But that would be safer.

Do I want to be safer? I don't think so. I don't want to die resigned. I don't want to hate myself even more. I want to be who I've been my whole life. Out, proud, safety and inspiration to the younger queer people who are scared. I want to be positive for them so they know that people like them can be happy. But I want to warn them as well, that being like this is dangerous, and hard.

I want disabled people who are scared to get aids, scared to get diagnosed, to look at me and know that there is at least some hope.

My mind is prone to overthinking, to finding the worst possible outcome of every situation. So I wonder if all of the things I come up with won't happen, and for a moment I find comfort in that. But I see others fear. I see how terrified they are of the same outcomes that I am, i see that I'm not the only one seeing them.

And I think, Why?

What am I meant to do now?

[ilovetheriddler]

For your Halloween fic prompts, could you do (BTAS) Penguin x Gn!reader where he gets dragged to a haunted house and reader is one of the main monsters/scarers? Thank youu

I loveeee horror and I also love your work ^_^

(Also, you can add smut if you want, but if you do could you do top reader bc I swear no one thinks about how good Ozzie would look getting roughed up 👁️)

Oh! I love this! I hope that you enjoy it!

Halloween Fic Event.

Penguins in a haunted house? It's more likely than you think!

(Oswald Cobblepot x GN!Reader.)

Contents: a bit of scaring, slight jealousy.

Oswald wasn't too keen on the idea of wasting his time visiting a haunted house... but you had insisted that he just had to go, which wouldn't have been unbearable if you had been available to join him, but you told him that you'd be busy with some job you'd recently gotten, what job could possibly be more important than him?! He'd be more than willing to provide you with anything you wanted, yet you insisted on working all these odd jobs here and there. It was baffling to him.

It was so poorly lit in here. How was he expected to even see five feet in front of himself in these conditions?! As he walked, he couldn't understand how anyone could find something this tame so scary? At least not until someone jumped out in front of him and made him feel like he was about to pass out from how high his heart rate skyrocketed. As he tried to calm his nerves, he heard a familiar laughter.

"M-my Beloved? Is that you?"

"Hehe... yep! Did I scare you?"

It was just you, dressed up in a fairly impressive costume. You had gotten a job to work here during the short time that it was opened. You'd always loved horror and thought it would be fun to scare some people... Oswald included, of course! You couldn't help yourself. He looked adorable when he was all startled and flustered! You reached your hand out and helped him stabilize himself.

"You... could have just simply informed me that you worked here instead of giving me a near heart attack!"

"I know, but it was honestly too tempting, you know?"

"... So, they're paying well, right? You enjoy this job?"

"Yeah, it's nice, and I get paid more than I thought i would so..."

He let out a hum of approval as he looked you up and down, taking note of how you looked all dressed up to be terrifying, out of all of the different partners he's had over the years, you were definitely his favorite. You were always so sweet to him, amusing, and your interests were quite unique. He always loved hearing you talk about them.

"So... What time do you get off? I'd love to take you to that new place uptown..."

"Hmm... that does sound nice... i get off in a few hours."

"...Very well then, I'll come back and pick you up then."

He figured it was best to leave you to your work until later. He didn't want to distract you after all. He didn't go far, though. He just sat outside the haunted house.... waiting. He occasionally worried about your well-being a bit too much, but Gotham was a dangerous city after all! It was reasonable worry as far as he was concerned.

He knew the city better than anyone else and also knew the dangerous people that lurked within it, like the joker. He'd do everything in his power to make sure you never ran into that guy. Or Jonathan Crane.... but that was less out of fear for your safety and more out of fear that Crane might be into you if he ever met you, and he'd let that happen over his dead body!

[thevoidstaredback]

Be Thou For The People

A contradictory void of suffocating black and empty white was the last thing Edward wanted to see at any given time. Sure, there was the exception of when he was going to get his and Al's bodies back, but that wasn't now. He was sure he hadn't done anything against explicitly against any Alchemical Laws, nor had he stumbled into any Human Transmutation arrays, so why was he here?

The familiar not-presence of a not-being filled his mind when it spoke to him. "Using your own soul as a Philosopher's Stone to save your life? What a cheat."

"Hey!" Ed protested, barely keeping himself from moving from his spot. Fighting this not-being would only be a waste of the infinitely miniscule amount of time in the void. "It's not cheating. I didn't break any rules. Besides, Alkahestry works kind of like that."

The Truth laughed heartily. "You must take the time to understand that which you do not. Using Alchemy on yourself is a form of Human Transmutation. You're molding your life to go against the flow, however small the alteration might have been. Unless you are not human?"

"Of course I'm human!" Ed shrunk in on himself slightly. Of course he didn't understand Alkahestry, the research for it hadn't been readily accessible to him like his Alchemy resources! And, yes, maybe he knew, in the back of his mind, that transmuting himself was still technically an Alchemical Taboo, but he had thought The Truth would have let him off because he was using his own life as the price! Evidently, that wasn't the case. In his defense, it was either shave off a few years or die via impalement. Neither was a good case, but he'd rather live to keep his promise to his brother than to die in a mineshaft because of a bastard like Kimblee.

"What am I even doing here?" he asked with a huff. It couldn't be anything good.

The Truth's ever present grin fell ever so slightly. "I'd like to cash in a favor with you."

"Excuse me?" he blinked.

The not-being continued, "A favor. You do something for me, I'll do something for you. That kind of deal."

"Hold on," Ed said, uncrossing his arms, "Why do You want me for this? Why not pull some other poor bastard to do Your dirty work?" For that's what this had to be, dirty work. There was nothing else it could be.

This time, The Truth's smile fell noticeably. "Because very few have survived coming into my realm once, let alone several times thereafter."

Another huff. "What's the parameters of this 'favor'?"

It grinned again. "Someone has decided to go and try to cheat Death. I want you to go get him and bring him to face the Gate."

"What do I get out of this?"

"A free pass. You'll be able to recover your brother's body with no repercussions on your end, though I would still like an answer."

Speechless for a moment, Ed recovered soon enough to ask, "What answer?"

"Nothing you need to worry about right now, little alchemist." The Truth's grin split It's face unnaturally in a smile, "What do you say, poor bastard?"

With a long, drawn out, resigned sigh, Edward sat down in front of his Gate. Honestly, he'd brought that taunt upon himself. Also, could he even refuse this? "Alright, fine. What do I gotta do?" It was too good to be true, but he might as well take the chance.

"That's the spirit, little alchemist!" The Truth relaxed, outstretching the leg It'd stolen from Ed and resting Ed's arm on It's other knee, leaving the hand and wrist limp. "I'll be sending you to the other side of the Gate. A world where technology thrived and alchemy died. A world of hidden societies. It is within one of those hidden societies that I want you to be. The man who has tried to defy Death runs as the 'villain', you could say."

When The Truth paused, Edward took that moment to think before speaking. "So, You want me to find this guy on the other side of the Gate and bring him to You?" It was a miracle he wasn't freaking out. Then again, that wouldn't get him anywhere. There's a time and a place, but this was not it. "How long do I have?"

"As long as it takes you. When you're done, you'll end up right where and when I pulled you from."

'Right where...' The sudden realisation of what had happened before he found himself in The Truth's realm was near painful. Quickly, he placed his flesh hand over where he knew he'd been impaled. The last thing he was doing before coming here was healing the wound and trying to stay alive. Pulling his hand away, he found no blood and only a slight numbness in place of pain. "What?"

"Pain doesn't exist here, little alchemist, I thought you would have remembered this fact?" It was true. When he had committed the Taboo, he'd not felt any pain until he was back in his father's study with one less leg. Though, the screaming was mostly shock and panic.

"If I do this," Ed started, "What rules do I have to follow?"

"I'm not sure I quite know what you mean?" It's grin and tone said otherwise.

"I'm not gonna let you throw me into a world knowing jack shit about it or the Laws in place." He knew all too well that he wouldn't actually be able to stop The Truth from doing anything. It was actually pretty generous of it to ask him instead of just dumping him somewhere in the first place. "Knowing my luck, I'd end up breaking one and end up right back here."

The Truth chuckled. "Knowing your luck, little alchemist, you'd knowingly break them even if you did know them." Ed resisted the urge to launch at the not-being. "However, I will tell you. The world follows the same basic Laws of yours. The society you'll be in have some additional ones. All the information you need will be given to you when you go Through." It put It's chin on Edwards right palm, the elbow resting on Its knee. "I would advise you keep your alchemy hidden from a very specific certain people. I'd also advise you to trust very few."

That's not good. The Truth is actually telling him to avoid people? "I don't suppose You'll tell me who to avoid." The grin he was given was answer enough.

"You will know who you can trust," It said.

After a few more moments, Ed nodded slowly. "Okay. I'll do this stupid favor for You, but You have to hold up Your end!"

The Truth's grin was more frightening than it had been before, matching up perfectly with the one It had showed him when he was a child. "Of course I will, poor bastard." The Gate behind Ed opened swiftly and the black arms of the Gatekeepers pulled him back, "Good luck, little alchemist."

Edward knew better than to struggle. Unlike in The Truth's realm, he could feel pain in here. The pain of the Knowledge of another world was unbearable and certainly would have killed him if he hadn't been Through the Gate before. Though, the Knowledge pouring into him was significantly more than the Knowledge that he had paid for before. He couldn't stop the scream that ripped from his throat.

***

The Truth watched as Edward Elric's Gate closed. It had presented the deal as though it were Equivalent, but It knew that wasn't the case. In order for Its end of this little deal to measure up with what the Little Alchemist was doing for it, The Truth would have to give him more knowledge as well as his little brother's body and his arm and leg. The knowledge and memories Edward would acquire on the other side of the Gate would fill out the rest of the Equivalence. If Edward answered The Truth's question correctly then it might be so inclined to add something to the growing stack of Equivalence.

The Truth smiled again. "I wonder how this will play out."

***

Edward didn't know how to feel when he opened his eyes again. On one hand, he was no longer in pain from the Gate, nor was he bleeding out from his most recent injury. He still felt a small twinge of pain when he moved wrong, though. On the other hand, he wasn't in the mineshaft, so that meant his meeting with The Truth hadn't been a dream and he really did have the complete Knowledge of another world in his head. Of course, now was the time to freak out about the entire situation.

Taking deep breaths, he kept his eyes open and focused on what was in front of him. It was a red cushioned bench. Was he on a train? Maybe. "Hydrogen, Helium, Lithium, Beryllium, Boron," he muttered slowly, "Carbon, Nitrogen, Oxygen, Fluorine," It was slow going, but he was calming down. "Neon, Sodium, Magnesium," He tapped the middle finger and thumb on his right hand together. "Aluminum, Silicon," Breath in through the nose, "Phosphorus," He coughed a bit, "Why the hell does it smell like cider? Better question, why the hell does it taste like cider?"

Now calmer, Edward took a better look around the compartment. And wasn't that weird. Trains didn't usually have compartments unless you got first class seating. And, judging on the muffled noise outside the door, he was in common class seating. Odd, but not overly so. On the rack above his head, he found a trunk with his name on it. Pulling it down, setting it on the seat next to him, and opening it it, he found a note on top of a black cloth.

Little Alchemist,

Along with the Knowledge you got when you went Through, I've also given you everything you'll need while there. Money is in the leather pouch, your wand is in your pocket with your watch, and your books and other school supplies are all in your trunk with extra clothes and robes. Anything else, you'll have to buy yourself.

Have fun as a third year, poor bastard, you'll be surrounded by thirteen year olds.

"How nice of It." Ed folded the note and tucked it away. Then, he ripped it open to re-read it. "The hell does it mean 'school supplies?!" Ed hadn't been to a proper school since before his mom died, so why the hell did The Truth think it was a good idea to send him to one? On top of that, why is he with the thirteen year olds?! He takes it back. The Truth isn't nice at all. Not in the slightest. "If this is You calling me short..." he threatened loosely.

Unfortunately, Ed knew there wasn't really anything he could do aside from take it in stride. He was good at that. So, putting the note away for good, he searched his pockets for his watch and wand. He didn't get far, though, because he finally realised what he was wearing. He still had on his black leather pants, his black elevator boots, and his cropped black jacket, but he was now wearing a white undershirt, a yellow tie, and black dress thing - a robe, his mind supplied - with gold trimming. What the hell? A look into his trunk confirmed the existence of more of these robes, one of which had been directly under the note. At least they were black. Quickly, Ed took off the robe he was wearing, but left the tie. A glance at the emblem - a UK badger - had his mind telling him that it was for the Hufflepuff House, whatever that was.

In his left pocket, he found his State Alchemist watch and his wand with a leather holster and another note. He fastened the holster under his sleeve and to his left forearm and stowed the wand there. Next, he read the note.

Little Alchemist,

Your wand is 13 inches, yew wood, with a core of Thestral Hair.

Yew wands are said to give their wielder more power over life and death than other wand woods and is more attracted to the Dark Arts. The Thestral Hair core is unstable at best and will only work for those who have accepted death.

'Great,' he scowled, shoving the note into his trunk with the other one, 'Another constant reminder of my mistakes.' Even in a completely different world, his greatest mistake haunts him.

Accepting it with a huff, he shoved the robes he'd woken up in into the trunk and pulled out a book - quickly checking for his own journal and sighing when he found it in the inner pocket of his cropped jacket - and opened it to read. He stopped short at the new language that was registering in his brain. "What the fuck?" The new language - English - had probably been forced into his mind while coming Through. Making a conscious effort, Edward spoke in Amestiran, "Was soll der Scheiß?" Again, the passing Knowledge that this world's equivalent to his home language was called German jumped to the front of his mind. "That's going to take some getting used to." Pushing everything else aside, he opened the book and began to read Spellman's Syllabary.

***

Three books later, Edward forced himself pulled back into reality. The textbooks he read were strange. The first was a study of this worlds Runes, some of which he had studied as a kid in alchemy books. The next was about Potions, he had a feeling that he was going to like that class; The third was about the Wizarding World's history, it was interesting to compare the Knowledge he'd gotten coming Through to what was being taught; The last was about Transfiguration, and he decided then and there that he would not be attending that class at all, no matter the consequences.

Blinking as he closed the book, he found he was no longer alone in the compartment. "Who the hell are you?" were the first words he said to anyone since his arrival.

The boy across from him shifted nervously in his seat, not meeting Ed's eye as he seemed to shrink in on himself. "I-I'm sorry. It's just, everywhere else was-was full, and-and-" he stopped only to restart a different sentence, "I asked if-if I could sit here- Everywhere else is full and the train started moving and- I'm really sorry!"

"Hold on," Edward cut the kid off from speaking anymore, "It's fine. I get caught up in my own little world when I'm reading."

The brown haired boy took a deep breath, still not looking away from his hands, and pressing himself as far away from Ed as he could. His robes were crimson and ruby red where Ed's were yellow and gold. "I'm sorry." he squeaked again.

"You have nothing to apologise for."

"Yes I do. We-we don't know each other. Why would you ever let me sit here?" He stood and reached for his own trunk, "I-I'll just go sit somewhere else-"

"Stop." Ed ordered, his tone leaving no room for discussion, "Sit your ass back down. I'm fine with you being in here. I really don't care."

"But-but, I'm a Gryffindor and you're a Hufflepuff."

"So?"

"'So'?"

"Yeah, 'So?'. Why should I care about that? You're just sitting here."

"But-!"

"I'm Edward. Call me Ed."

The boy seemed like he wanted to say something, but he allowed the conversation to turn were Ed led it. "Neville Longbottom, though you probably already knew that." He did know that, but not for any reason Neville could come up with. "You're really okay with me staying?"

"Yes."

He slowly sat back down. "I don't remember seeing you around school before. Are you new?"

This question made Ed pause for a second. Nothing was telling him this kid was untrustworthy, but that didn't mean he'd tell him anything. Though, an ally would do him good. "Yeah, I'm new." Now, he was relying on what the Gate had given him. "I was sorted only a bit ago, so I don't really care about the Houses or whatever. I'm thinking about not telling anyone I'm new, though, see if I can trick everyone, y'know?"

Neville gave a small smile. Maybe there was a chance of befriending this kid? "That'd be funny."

Edward smiled, too, "You'll help me?"

"Of course!" He didn't know why, but Neville found this kid - Edward - easy to be around. He hadn't stuttered much this whole conversation and Ed was even asking him to help prank the whole school! But, that wouldn't last long. Once Ed found out how terrible at everything he is, he'll leave like everyone else.

"Hey," Ed asked, "What's wrong?"

"I just don't want to get my hopes up," Neville said shyly, "Once you realise how stupid I am, you'll not want to be around me."

Ed frowned. "Don't talk like that."

"Huh?"

"Self deprecation will get you nowhere. We're friends now, so I'm gonna help you work on that, okay?" Having a friend sounded nice. Besides, this kid is really easy to relax around. He was only ever able to relax like this around Al, but this kid was so similar to his brother that it was honestly a little scary.

"Friends? Are we really..?" A look from the blond made the brunet smile again. He didn't have friends. Acquaintances, sure, but not friends. "What're you reading?"

"The textbooks." Was the answer, "I didn't have time to read them over the summer, so I figured I'd read them now."

Neville nodded, agreeing to the logic, "Have you read the Herbology one yet?"

"No, but I can?" he offered.

A grin. "I want you're thoughts on this year's course when you're done." he sat back, "I'll wait."

Chuckling, Edward muttered, "Yes, sir," with a two fingered salute and a smirk as he began reading. It wasn't going to take him long to finish it, he knew, but his interest in whatever Neville had to say on the subject made him read slightly faster than normal.

***

The discussion on Herbology lasted from the third hour of the train ride - two o'clock in the afternoon - up until an hour before the sunset at seven o'clock. The train had come to a screeching and quick halt, cutting off any and all cheerful conversations and replacing them with collective confusion. The stop had also jolted everyone on the train, throwing most from or against their seats.

"What do you think is going on?" Neville asked his blond friend.

"I don't know," Edward stood from his seat, "But I'm going to-"

A sudden chill made itself known to the two boys. Their warm breaths became visible in the cold air and the glass of the windows quickly frosted over. Edward was thankful that he had winter automail on because he did not want to deal with frostbite, thank you. All sounds, muffled or otherwise, were muted over by a loud silence. Even their own breathing made little to no noise. Then, Neville started to tremble.

"Neville?" The boy in question had his hands loosely covering his ears and his eyes were wide and unfocused, seeing something Ed could not. He fell to his knees as tears started to fall from his eyes "Neville!" Edward recognised a flashback when he saw one. He'd seen some of the older soldiers have flashbacks to the Ishvalan War and was glad the fighting and war efforts hadn't reached Resembol outside of Winry's parents leaving and refugees joining the town.

A boney, charred black hand made itself known on the glass window of the door with a quiet tap, the window around the hand turning white with the cold, but the handprint stayed clear with an illusion of warmth. Slowly, the door opened and the owner of the hand was in full visibility, despite the cold seeming to fog everything else over with a thick mist. It was covered in a black cloak that hung so far and so loose that Ed couldn't tell if the thing was floating or standing. The hood covered where it's face should be and the sleeves seemed to be it's arms, falling over the things hands.

'A Dementor.' The Knowledge the Gate had forced into his head supplied, 'You're wand is protecting you.' Yew wood had power over life and death, so it was therefore able to protect against beings such as this one. The thestral hair core only seemed to amplify this. The words Expecto Patronum entered his mind.

Ed hadn't ever seen anything like this before, let alone faced something like it, so he was having a hard time overcoming his shock. When he did, though, he pulled Neville into a hug without turning his back on the creature. His wand fell from it's holster and into his left hand and he whispered the spell he was told. "Expecto Patronum!" His given Knowledge about the spell let him know that it was incredibly difficult to produce. It uses the castor's happiest memory as fuel to fend off Dementors, who feed off of misery. The happier the memory, the stronger the spell. The surprise Ed felt when a fully corporeal Patronus came into existence to push the Dementor out and away was immense. When the dark creature was gone, Ed watched as the glowing tiger made of silvery light approached and laid itself around him and Neville. A sense of calm overtook the train compartment and Ed found he could breathe easier. The room started to warm up with the Dementor now gone.

"Are you alright?" Edward asked Neville quietly once the boy had stopped trembling.

"I-I" he gulped, "I think so." He pulled away from Edward slightly, not noticing the tiger wrapped around him yet. "What was that thing?"

"A Dementor." Ed found a small bit of amusement that his companion hadn't noticed the silver magic yet.

Confused at why the blond was smiling, Neville started to ask why, but stopped short when he noticed the glowing tiger that he was somehow leaning against. It had wrapped itself around the two, it's tail going behind Edward and its head beside Neville. "What-"

"My Patronus, apparently," The tiger acknowledged the two with a nod - as if satisfied that they were now alright - before disappearing.

"You can cast the Patronus Charm?!" Neville had seen it mentioned in passing in a few books he's read, but, as far as he knew, it was a NEWT level spell! They wouldn't be learning that until Sixth Year!

"Apparently. That was my first time doing it." And using magic. Edward patted himself on the back for a job well done on the first try. Neville didn't need to know that part, though.

"You know what the tiger means, right?"

"It means something?"

"Of course it does!" Neville shook Ed by the shoulders, "The tiger means strength and cunning and majesty and independance and immortality. How did you not know that?"

Ed's brain short circuited. There was several things to unpack there, but the one he was focused on was the whole 'immortality' thing. What the fuck?

"You good?" Neville's voice pulled him back from his mind.

"Am I alright? I should be asking you that!" He lowered his voice. "You had a flashback."

Neville shook his head. "I don't really wanna talk about it." That made sense. He wasn't going to push. "Well, should we go see what's going on?" Edward smiled and nodded, helping the brunet up after standing himself.

There was a knock on the door. "Everything okay in here?" a man's voice called from the other side of the door.

Ed opened it, "Yeah, we're good."

"Who're you?" Neville asked from over Ed's shoulder. He was a whole four inches taller than the blond, much to the latter's irritation.

The man pulled chocolate out of his jacket pocket and handed a bar to the boys. "That was a Dementor." Then, he paused for a second and looked around the compartment. "Did either of you cast the Patronus Charm?"

Edward crossed his arms. "Who are you?"

The man seemed to size the two up for a second. "I'm Remus Lupin, your Defense Against the Dark Arts professor this year."

"Cool. Never heard of you." Neville gasped and backed up a few steps, obviously surprised at Ed's gall.

Remus laughed, "No, I suppose you haven't. Now, did you two cast a Patronus?"

"Yeah?" Ed raised an eyebrow, "How did you know?"

"Good job," he sent a quick glance to Ed's tie, "Ten points to Hufflepuff. The Patronus Charm leaves a kind of residue in the air. Lingering happiness, you could say."

"Huh. Cool."

"Anyway, I need to go check on the rest of the students. Be sure to change into your robes before we get to the school." Then, he walked away.

Ed closed the door and snickered.

"What're you laughing at?" Neville asked, a weak glare in his eyes. Edward had some audacity talking to a teacher like that! Though, Neville supposed it was a nice change. He wasn't gonna admit that out loud, though.

"His name." Ed moved away from the door and sat back in his seat.

Neville sat across from him again. "What about his name?"

"It means," he started to laugh again. "It means 'Wolf Wolf'." The Knowledge he'd gotten had included the myths of this world. The one he was thinking of was of Remus and Romulus of Rome. They had been raised by the wolf Lupa. "If that man has nothing to do with wolves, I'll eat my boots."

Neville giggled, "I'd pay ten galleons to see that."

"Oh, you're on!" The two shook hands as the train began moving again.

***

When Edward read 'school' on the note The Truth had left for him, he was expecting something closer to the ones back home, like a building no taller than three floors. Not a whole ass village. When he expressed this to Neville, the boy told him the the village - Hogsmeade - was not the school, before leading him over to the carriages. Most students, Ed noticed, were ignoring the horses altogether. The few that saw them gave them a wide berth. He wasn't about that. He walked right up to one, dragging Neville with him, and patted it's side.

"What is it?" Neville asked.

"A thestral." he answered.

Tentatively, Neville reached out to pet the horse as well. "It's beautiful." The two soon had to leave the thestrals and jumped into the carriage. They didn't say much as they waited to arrive at the school, though they were joined by a blond in royal and sapphire blue robes before they started moving.

Again, Edward's first image of a school was maybe three floors in a very rectangular building. Not a damn castle. He barely refrained from expressing his excitement in front of his extra companion. Though, he did have the information Given to him come to the forefront of his mind for a moment, just long enough to skim through the history of the building. It was a lot and it would be sorted through later.

"You don't have to hold back," the girl said, "I know you're new here."

"Are you sure I'm new?" Edward asked her, "There's a lot of kids here, you could have just overlooked me before."

"Quite sure." she nodded, "The wrackspurts that like to stay at the school haven't gotten to you yet." Her ice blue eyes gleamed for a moment. "My name's Luna Lovegood."

"Edward, but you can call me Ed."

"Nice to meet you, Ed. Neville."

The brunet squeaked. "Um, hi."

Luna giggled, "We haven't met before, but your reputation proceeds you, as does mine."

Neville blink dumbly before saying, "Loony?"

She smiled, "Yes,"

"Oh, my god!" Neville covered his mouth in mild horror, "I'm so sorry!"

"It's okay." She didn't seem to mind.

While the two students who weren't on their first day of school conversed, Edward had let himself openly - but quietly - gawk at the castle that was apparently a school. At first, he had to do a double take. Why would they be going to a bunch old ruins? But then the focus of the world seemed to shift and he couldn't help himself. He'd never seen a castle in person but this was a fantastic first impression on him. Now he could hold bragging rights over Mustang! Though, he wasn't sure if the tingling in his ports was natural. He couldn't very well ask the two because they obviously had all their limbs. The closer he got to the castle, he noticed, the more alarm bells started to go off in his head. Then, the tingling got worse.

"Ed?" Neville called, "Is everything alright?"

"Yeah.." was his distracted answer. He rubbed his right shoulder port with his left hand, "..yeah."

"Are you sure?" Luna asked, her eyes on his right hand.

Before he could answer, his head erupted into a splitting headache and he doubled over, gripping his head in his left hand. 'What the hell is happening?!' He wondered. There was a quiet voice screaming at him to get out and leave, trying to force excuses into his head. The tingling in his ports turned to a stabbing pain, rendering his right arm and left leg useless

"This is a violent reaction to the wards," Luna said, though Ed couldn't be sure he really heard her.

Neville was chewing on his bottom lip, "Why, though? He was perfectly fine on the train."

"Is he a muggle or a squib?"

"No. He performed magic on the train when the Dementor entered the cart."

"Hmm. This is a problem."

Ed came back into focus about then, the pain in his head down to a tolerable hum and his automail ports only feeling slightly heavier than normal. He methodically moved all the joints in his automail that he could, just ot make sure everything was in working order, not that he could actually move them again. "What...the hell was that?"

Luna sat back in her seat, though she was no less concerned than before. "The wards. I don't think the castle likes you very much."

"Why wouldn't the castle like him?" Neville was wondering several things she could have ment, but he was going to try and stay on track for now. He could ask more questions later.

She humed. "Hogwarts doesn't like muggles. Squibs like Mr. Filch are tolerable, though. She must really dislike you for some reason."

"I'm sorry," Ed said, "'She'?"

"The castle."

"Okay. Yeah. Yeah, okay." Maybe he has lost it. He got hit in the head and he's lost his mind. That's the only explanation for whatever was going on. Apparently sentient castles were a thing now? Great. Fantastic.

"Either way," Neville chimed in, leaving the matter of the Hogwarts' apparent sentience for a later date, "Do you think you'll be okay for the Welcome Feast?" Then, he backtracked to when his first conversation with the blond. "Actually, what year are you?"

Ed's eyebrow twitched. He's fifteen years old, damn it, so why is he being but with people two years younger?! He huffed quietly. "Third year."

Neville brightened up. "That's my year!" Then, he deflated, "But we're not in the same House."

"So?" he still couldn't wrap his mind around the whole 'House Rivalry' thing going on despite the reasons having been shoved straight into his head. "What House we're in shouldn't matter."

"You want to make the whole school thing you're on your third year here, yes?" Luna asked, though neither boy was sure how she found out about that little plan, "Then just play into that. Don't go out of your way to interact with each other, and no one will suspect a thing."

"Nah," Ed turned down. He didn't like the idea of shoving Neville aside to keep up appearances. "I'll just play into the Hufflepuff House Traits." Yes, he knew enough about those to recite them in his sleep. "Justice, loyalty, patience, and propensity for hard word. We're friends now. I don't leave people behind."

Luna smiled, "Well, I don't know how much help I'll be, but-"

Ed cut her off. "Hey, as far as I'm concerned, we're friends now, too. Besides, you seem interesting."

"Thank you. You're interesting as well."

Neville was going to stop questioning anything now. Though, he had to admit that they made a pretty fun group, despite only having just met each other. Friends. What a weird concept.

"Now," Ed said as the carriage came to a stop near the castle, "let's go back to the reputation thing. You both have proceeding reputations? I'll have to step up my game. I've been here for two years and people are only just noticing me?" He clicked his tongue and shook his head, "A damn shame."

The two laughed, fully intent on playing along with this endeavor of tricking the whole school. Luna still hadn't told them how she found out about that. "Anther time, Ed. You know which table you're going to?"

"The yellow one, right?"

"That's the one!"

"Okay. I'll see you two later?"

"Of course."

Now alone, Ed took a second to look around at the flood of students heading up to the castle. They'd pretty much all sectioned themselves off into four main groups. Red, yellow, blue, and green. The red and green groups were all sneering at each other and were being separated by the yellow and blue kids. And, based on everything he'd been Given when he came Through the Gate, he was going to have to tread carefully. Politics. Ew. Despite all reservations, he joined the yellow group and followed them into the castle.

The Entry Hall was just has grand as the rest of the castle, and very sparsely decorated. The doors in front of him were tall and opened on their own to let the flood of students into the Grand Hall. It was beautifully decorated, but Ed wasn't quite sure he liked the ceiling. It was amazing, nonetheless. The five tables were arranged in a way that basically promoted against Inter-House relationships. The teacher's table was fine, but the four House Tables were all separated quite obviously, and the banners above them only amplified this. With a huff, Ed sat down at the end of the yellow table. The Hufflepuffs around him didn't seem to take notice of him. Good. All the better for gaslighting the staff and student body.

A few minutes after everyone had sat down, a stool was placed in front of the teacher's table. An old pile of cloth sat on top of it. Then, the doors to the Great Hall opened once again and a stern looking teacher - Professor McGonagall, Ed's mind supplied - walked in, a gaggle of obviously nervous kids following after her. That was how the Sorting Ceremony started.

***

It took an hour, but every single one of the first years had been sorted between the four Houses. It was off-putting for Ed to see the absolute disgust or rage or other negative emotions on the students' faces when someone was sorted into a House that wasn't their own. Seriously, why are they all getting so upset about a kid being placed where they'd fit in best? He didn't outtwordly react, though.

All the House tables had ranging reactions to each placement, but Hufflepuff had the least negative out of all of them. The Slytherins sneered at everyone who wasn't with them, especially if they were sorted into Gryffindor. The Gryffindors returned the favor. The Ravenclaws weren't nearly as bad as the other two, but they did avoid watching anyone walk to their table. They didn't make a sound when anyone was sorted into Hufflepuff, though. The Hufflepuffs, clapped politely for everyone, but there were a few that they didn't clap for. They were mostly Ravenclaws.

According to the Gate, it was Gryffindor versus Slytherin and Hufflepuff versus Ravenclaw. The Gryffindors and Ravenclaws got along, while the Slytherins and Hufflepuffs got along. None of them actually went out of their way to interact, but classes styled like that were normally more productive than a Gryffindor and Slytherin class.

Ed was gonna change that. Maybe. It was on his list now that he'd met Luna and Neville, but it wasn't a priority. More of, if it happens, it happens.

"I welcome you all, whether you are returning for another year or you are only just coming in, to Hogwarts for another year or learning." the old man in the middle of the staff table said. Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, he knew from the Gate, was wearing obnoxious pink robes with his beard tucked into the blue belt. "I only have one thing to say to you all, now that you've been seated: Tuck in!"

Upon his command, dishes and food and drink appeared on all the tables, covering the wood to the point it could hardly be seen. Everyone started to serve themselves as conversation erupted throughout the room, engulfing it into a cacophony of sound and movement that was, in all honesty, overwhelming Ed.

"Hey," someone said from next to him, their voice quiet against everything else, making it stand out ot his ear more, "Are you okay? You look a bit pale."

Ed pushed an answer out of his throat in a voice equally as quiet. "Yeah," he lied, "This is my third year and I'm still not used to this much noise."

The kid, Cedric, he recognised from the Gate, nodded, "Yeah, I get that. When we get back to the dorms, we can put a silencing charm over your bed curtains."

"Isn't there already a silencing charm on them?"

"Yeah, but that's just to muffle the sound going in or out. I'll put one on that'll completely silence the noise going in."

That didn't sound to bad. "Edward Elric," he introduced himself as he finally began to get himself food. Despite what Mustang believed, he did have manners. He just doesn't use them around the bastard because he sees no reason to.

Cedric also began eating. "Cedric Diggory." They let the conversation sit for a second, the fifth year student was making sure to be quiet. It didn't to a lot in the grand scheme of the room, but the sentiment was appreciated. "Forgive me, but I don't recognise you. Are you a visiting student?"

Ed shook his head, the lie coming easy to him, "No, I've been here, since year one. I just don't like to draw attention usually."

Cedric raised an eyebrow. "Really? You don't seem the type."

"Huh?"

"You're," he gestured vaguely at Ed, "vibe, I guess. It basically screams for attention." Ed didn't say anything. Cedric flinched. "Right, sorry, that was rude of me." he cleared his throat, "Are you going to hide yourself in the background again this year, or are you going to try and make friends?"

Ed pretended to think for a moment before answering, "I made some friends on the train earlier."

"Oh? That's good."

"Yeah. If we ever want to spend time outside of classes, though, it's inevitable we'll draw attention to ourselves."

"Oh?" he said again, "And why's that?"

"We're all in different Houses."

"Ah. Yeah, I can see where the problem lies."

Before their conversation could continue, the food and drinks and dishes were taken from the table. "House elves." Ed muttered under his breath.

Headmaster Dumbledore stood from his seat again and cleared his throat, calling everyone's attention to him. Once every student was looking at the old man, he smiled with a twinkle in his eye as his gaze moved from student to student. Ed made sure to not meet the man's eyes. "As always, a wonderful feast." he began, "Before I send you off to your beds, there a a few things to be announced and reminded. The Forbidden Forest is, to those who do not wish to die a most gruesome death, forbidden. Mr. Filch has asked me to remind you all that a list of prohibited objects ha been posted to his office door on the second floor." He turned slightly to the left side of the staff table. "I would like to introduce you all to this year's Defence Against the Dark Arts professor, Professor Remus Lupin." Ed was giggling behind his hand while everyone clapped. The man stood, waved a bit, then sat back down. Dumbledore continued, "Classes begin tomorrow at eight in the morning. I wish you all a good night."

Again, the room became very loud very quickly. Cedric shot Ed an apologizing look. "I'll met you in the common room, okay?" Ed nodded as the brunet stood and called for the first years to follow him.

Ed Knew where he was going, but he didn't really know. So, he followed everyone else as they left the Great Hall. He made sure to make himself seem small - because he was not small - as he walked in the middle of the crowd. Cedric and someone else had taken the first years on a different route, so he resigned himself to being surrounded by people he's never met before in his life. Which ones are his dorm-mates, he wonders. He doesn't really care to know at the moment.

The group of students wearing yellow accented robes wandered down to the basement - a floor above the dungeons - and to the kitchens. At least, near the kitchens. One of the boys at the head of the group tapped the barrel two from the bottom of the stack twice, then thrice, muttering 'Helga Hufflepuff' as he did so. The passage opened up and the Hufflepuffs all filed into the common room.

The room was very cozy and smelled like freshly cut grass and rain and burning firewood and freshly baked bread. Overall, it felt like home did. The earthy tones to the room only amplified this fact. The ceiling was white marble, the floor was off-white tile with a dark green mosaic in the middle, and the walls were off-white and light grey bricks. Wooden supports pillared up in a few places, even scattered about, and were connected at the top by arches. The room itself was round and very big. There were two wooden staircases leading up to the second floor landings, separating the male and female dorms. Alcloves took up the walls of the room, filled with bookshelves and couches and matching chairs and darker area rugs. A large fireplace took up the wall directly opposite the door, the space in front occupied by several more armchairs and couches. There was an area with only bean-bag chairs and Ed decided that he needed to get one of those in his own world. Aside from pictures that had been hung up, the bulletin board by the door, and the furniture, plants took up every available space. Round windows lining the top of the walls and warm lanterns hanging from the rafters completed the room.

Everyone settled into the common room nicely. No one went to their rooms yet, so it was a bit crowded. Not overly so, though. For Hogwarts being the only magic school in Britain, there weren't a lot of students.

About ten minutes later, the two House Prefects for Hufflepuff brought the First Years in. Everyone was very friendly to them, and they all quickly warmed up to each other and their Housemates. Eventually, though, the older years started to taper off into their rooms. Ed followed Cedric into the Third Year boys' dorms.

"So," Cedric said, "I see the common room wasn't too loud for you?"

Ed shook his head "Nope. It was a manageable level. Besides, it feels like I've come home after a long trip." Well, the common room felt like how he imagines it would be like when he and Al went back to Resembool after they get their bodies back.

Cedric frowned slightly, but ultimately didn't say anything. He quickly finished the charms on Ed's bed curtains before turning back to the blond with a smile. "Well, if you need anything, feel free to ask me or your roommates or anyone else in the House. Professor Sprout is also more than happy to talk to her students."

Ed smiled softly at the older boy, "You act like it's my first day," It was, but he wasn't going to tell Cedric that. Not now, at least. Maybe a different time.

"Of course," the brunet smiled back, "Right." he went to the door, "Well, I'll let ya get some sleep. See you in the morning?"

"Yeah," the blond nodded, "See ya then."

The door closed and Ed found himself alone in the room. It was hexagonal in shape, the floor was off-white tile, the walls off-white and light grey bricks, and the ceiling was white brick. The wall trim was carved wood, matching the rafters and corner beams and door, and climbed two feet up the wall. The beds were all four-posted with soft yellow blankets, white sheets and pillowcases, and had black and gold bed curtains. To the right of each bed was a wooden nightstand with three drawers. On the left was a dresser with five drawers. Trunks sat at the end of each bed, and a yellow rug with the Hufflepuff coat of arms on it covered most of the floor.

Ed easily found his trunk and bed, closing the curtains around him before he let himself get comfortable. It was weird, laying in this bed. It seemed to solidify the fact in his mind that this was real. He's in a new world, far away from anything familiar and safe. Magic is everywhere, and all laws of Equivalence are ignored! He didn't think he'd be able to sleep, so he grabbed a book from his trunk and started to read, mumbling to himself the whole while.

***

He must've fallen asleep at some point because his pocket watch was now telling him that it was now five in the morning. Ed sighed and dragged a hand down his face before taking his hair from the braid he'd slept in. It was still early, so he'd have the bathroom to himself for a while. Good, because he hadn't had a shower in days and he was feeling dirty. His hair was also getting oily and it was not a pleasant feeling.

Storyboard

[wolvesofinnistrad]

Read on Ao3 Here.

Its been about 6 months. 

6 of the best months of a relationship Buck has ever had. And its not even about it being a guy, discovering his bisexuality. Its just... Tommy.

Hes great in so many ways, and the dynamic is so different that for the first time Buck has been able to relax, not always feel like hes chasing after someone. Actually, hes found out he quite likes being the one that gets chased, romanced, flirted with.

Everything is going great and hes even, in the back of his mind, been starting to think this might be it, this might be a long term thing after all which he'd have never expected. And then Eddie fucks it all up by telling him his most recent girlfriend, Beatrice or something Buck honestly hasn't kept track lately, broke up with him because quote "i can never have a place in your life when you've got Buck so entrenched in it."

Hes never had anyone imply that his and Eddies friendship, the little family hes made with Eddie and Chris, is somehow wrong or off-putting. Eddie was more annoyed than anything and didn't seem to care. But Buck... Buck got worried. Not because he cared about what Betty or whatever thought, but because he wondered if it wasn't true. If maybe their dynamic would scare people off eventually, and did that mean it would scare Tommy off as well?

So that's how hes sitting here, curled under a blanket on the couch, a new sectional he bought because Tommy's back didn't get enough support in the last one, spilling his guts to his boyfriend. When hes done he looks up at Tommy, expecting, well, something. Anger, confusion, heartbreak, but... Its not there. Tommy smiles at him, placing a hand on his leg over the blanket. "Evan... i understand how important Eddie and Chris are to you. I would never make you choose. I would never try to cut them out or deny you that."

Buck takes that in sits with it for a moment but finds it doesn't fully alleviate his concerns.

"But what if... i mean, if were together, you know, for the long haul. It wont affect you? What i have with them?"

Tommy smiles, he looks away for a minute and laughs.

"Can i be really honest with you Evan?" He says, meeting his eyes now. 

Buck nods.

Tommy inches closer, drawing up one of his legs beneath him. "When we first started dating i knew you all were close, but i didn't really understand until later that you were a 'family.'" He pauses, thinks. "But when i did, yeah, there was a moment i was a little worried where i fit in. Where there was space for me in your life. And then i had an idea, and once i wrapped my head around it that way, re-conceptualized how i looked at things, it didn't scare me anymore."

Now that's surprising to hear, Buck wants to know what could have so easily changed his mind. "And what was it that made you not worry then?"

Again Tommy laughs. "I started thinking of Eddie like he was your ex husband."

Bucks eyes bug out a bit. "My what?!"

Tommy shrugs. "It was easier in my head than just saying your best friend who you're co-parenting with. I've dated guys with kids, with exes before. It wasn't a stretch to think of it like Eddie was your ex and Chris was your kid from another relationship. Once i put it in my head like that, i didn't worry about whether we could have a life together. You'll always be tied to them, but it didn't mean you couldn't have a life with me to." He reached over and took Bucks hand, squeezed it tight. "And honestly Evan? I'm starting to think I'd like that. A life with you."

Despite how weird it is to think of his little family with Eddie and Chris that way, how Tommy sees it, there's something relief and happiness coursing through him. Knowing that Tommy's already figured out how he can keep some of the most important people in his life and incorporate them into a new life hes building for himself. For him and Tommy. 

"Evan?" Tommy asks, scootching closer on the couch, their knees knocking together.

Buck realizes its been too long since he's said anything, but when he speaks he simply says "move in with me."

For all of a second Tommy looks shocked, then elated, then seemingly guarded. "Evan... You don't have to lock me down or something i just exp-"

Buck cuts him off, "its not that. Trust me, I've done that before. Held on so tight, clung because i was scared of being left behind. This isn't that. This is..." he stops, lets his mind and body calm enough to get this right. "This is me holding on because I don't want to let go. Because i want to stay, right here, with you. I'm not scared of being left anymore, I'm scared of not putting down roots. Of not letting the best boyfriend I've ever had,"

"Only," Tommy interjects.

"Best," Buck reiterates, gripping his hand tighter, boyfriend I've ever had know that i want this. I want him. I want a life with you too. And hearing that i think, it was just the final thing falling into place, the last weight weighing on me. I... I've been thinking of asking you for a while, but i wanted so bad to get it right this time. And i think i am, but Tommy." He looks into his eyes. "Tommy you're the first time I've felt like if i got it wrong it would still be okay, we could make it work anyway. So move in with me. Please. Or.. heck, we could get a place of our own if you like?"

Tommy kisses him then. Its slow and passionate but all consuming. Its like nothing hes ever had before. And it feels so right. For once it feels Right.

A week later Tommy sends him a photo of a house for rent. Rent to own actually.

"Wheres that at?" He asks, because its a nice place, he can see the potential.

"Its literally a block away from Eddie's house, I saw it as I was driving away." He says, and Buck can almost hear the laugh and smug smile miles away.

"Its perfect." He writes back. But what he means is, 'you're perfect.'

[ripdragonbeans]

Do You Believe In Fate // Part 3 // Aegon II x Reader

Summary: Over two years have passed since you've seen Aegon. A surprise dinner brings you two back together.

Warnings: None

Part 1 // Part 2 // Part 3 // Part 4 // Part 5 // Part 6

It had been over two years since you heard from Aegon, much less actually seen him. At first it hurt but it soon faded to the back. Of course, you still kept in close touch with Helaena and Aemond. Aemond actually attended the same university as you, King’s Landing University. 

It was your junior year of university and you were doing wonderful. Aegon would forever live in your mind, that you knew for sure. What you didn't expect was finding a new best friend in Aemond.

Being close to Aemond was nothing like being close to Aegon. While Aegon brought an exciting amount of chaos into your life, Aemond brought calm serenity and deep introspections. The two of you still gossiped, with Helaena, but it was nothing like what it was with Aegon. 

Touch wise, Aemond was very different from Aegon. Physically, Aemond welcomed you but it was more of a gentle, protective touch. While Aegon was more playful and could be a but more aggressive, Aemonod was careful and tender. There was casual leaning in each other or holding hands to keep track of one another as well as simple hugs of genuine care and thanks. 

Again, you missed Aegon. He was so familiar, so safe, but he was gone. He made his choice and you made yours. He chose Cassandra over you and you chose to protect your heart, as much as you could, by turning a new leaf and going to university. You couldn't help but wonder if he was still with her. From what you've learned from Helaena and Aemond, Aegon attended Dragonstone Community College. 

While you were still in the same area, you did your best not to see him. Every now and then you'd catch a glimpse of him by his favorite coffee shop or record store. You made a point to avoid those spots. They held too many memories, too much pain. You may not have ever been dating but it still felt like you lost a part of you. Your mind wandered to the red string of fate. You laughed coldly. Of course people would believe in the red string of fate, a tie that linked you to your soulmate. 

“You doing okay?” Aemond asked you. 

The two of you were walking side by side through campus, spending time together on your lunch break. It was a sunny day with the wind blowing gently. There were few clouds in the sky and you basked in the nice weather.

“I've been thinking, I guess,” you told him. A moment of silence passed before you spoke again, this time softly. “I miss him. I know it's been over two years since I've even heard from him, but it's like there's something missing.”

Aemond took your hand and led you to a bench. Sitting down, he put an arm around your shoulders and pulled you in for an awkward side hug. “You're doing your best and that's what counts. Sorry, Helaena is better at this than I am.”

“‘This’ being?”

“Comforting, I guess. Or just when it comes to Aegon in general,” he shrugged. A moment passed before Aemond spoke again. “You know he's been out of community college for about a year now?”

“Don't worry, I've kept in mind the dates,” you joked. “But yeah, he graduated this past spring.”

“If he had decided to walk would you have attended?”

“Honestly?” You wrapped your arms around yourself. “I don't know. I'm proud of him and I'd want to celebrate with him but I think seeing him would hurt me. There's a pain that never went away, Aemond. I don't know if it ever will.”

“Hmm.”

“Okay, what's that about?”

“I don't think you give yourself enough credit. You can heal, I know you can. Yes, it'll take quite a while, but it will happen.”

“Wow, you have a lot of faith in me,” you rolled your eyes. “Did you forget about the part where I lost my childhood best friend over a girl? I've been with him through everything and he still chose her.”

“And he's a dick for doing that but you deserve someone better than him.”

“Thanks, Aemond.” You gave him a small smile.

You sat in a comfortable silence for a few moments before Aemond spoke up.

“After listening to you talk, do you think you’re ready for this weekend? We’re all going to be back at the house for a family dinner tomorrow and then it’s family bonding time, whatever that’ll entail.”

You felt the color drain from your face; you forgot about the family dinner. Instead of answering him, you got up to your feet. “Let’s get going, I don’t want to be late for class.”

The rest of the day went by uneventfully. Nothing new or exciting happened. All you could think of was the dinner later this weekend. You’d voluntarily be seeing Aegon for the first time in at least two years. You knew it was going to be an awkward time, everyone could see that. Yet, at the same time, you were excited at the prospect of even being in the same room as him. You missed him, a lot. 

“Hey, Aemond!” you called to him as he walked out of his class. Jogging up to him you asked, “Can I crash at your place tonight? Helaena is out with the entomology majors.”

Aemond smiled. “Of course. You can take the bed, I’ll take the couch.”

You held Aegon tight, afraid that if you stopped holding him he would disappear again. Burying your face in the crook of his neck, you inhaled his scent. You've missed him so much. Aegon gently played with your hair as you snuggled closer to him. This was what you wanted and now that it was a reality it seemed too good to be true. 

“I'm sorry,” Aegon whispered.

You pulled yourself closer to him in response. “It's okay, Aeg.”

“No, it's not okay. I shouldn't have left you. I was scared and stupid and a dick.”

You pulled your head away to look at him. “Then why didn't you come back sooner?”

“Because I was a coward,” he sighed. “I did see you with Helaena and Aemond, you know. I'd catch glimpses of you three around town and I would just…watch. You looked so happy with them, all of you looked so happy. I thought it was best that I stay away.”

“You saw us around town? That's a little creepy, Aeg.”

“It's kind of hard to avoid you and my siblings when we still live in the same area,” he laughed.

You unraveled one of your arms around him to take a hold of his hand. “I saw you, too. I saw you with Cassandra a lot.” You stared at your intertwined hands. 

Aegon didn't say anything. 

“You seemed very happy with her. You would smile and your eyes would light up, or at least I thought they did. Seeing you with her broke me,” you whispered the last sentence. 

“I'm so sorry, I -”

“It's okay, Aeg. You didn't know. I won't hold it against you. I don't think I could ever hold anything against you.” You squeezed his hand.

He pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head before kissing your cheek. Letting go of your hand, Aegon used his to turn your face to him. You could see all the words unsaid in his eyes. All of the emotions, all of the love. Carefully, he lowered his face and brushed his lips against yours.

“I'll never leave you again, I promise.”

“And I won't let you go.”

“Hey, we gotta leave soon”

 The voice was calm and collected and had a feminine touch to it. Knowing it wasn’t Aegon, you burrowed back under the covers.

“Or we can stay here and hide forever. It’s up to you. Either way I’ll be with you, even if I might sneak out to grab some food for us.”

The door opened and a set of footsteps entered the room.

“It’s time to get up,” the new voice said.

“Neither of you are Aegon so I don’t really want to listen to you.” You mumbled out.

“All we need is Aegon? Okay, let me go get him,” the second voice taunted. 

You were sure they were bluffing until you heard the footsteps retreat.

“WAIT!” You shot out of bed. 

Aemond smiled at you. “Gotcha.”

Helaena slapped Aemond’s arm. “You can’t be saying stuff like that.” She dropped her voice to a whisper, “You know how fragile she can be.”

Glaring at Helaena, you kicked off the covers and stretched. “I’m not fragile, we know this.”

Helaena looked at you knowingly but nodded her head all the same. “So,” she clapped her hands. “How do we want to go about this family dinner?”

“Personally, I would like to go back to bed,” you offered.

“Nope. Next idea. Aemond?”

Aemond pulled his long hair back into a messy bun. “We can ignore Aegon all day? Or whenever we’re all in the same building.”

You rubbed your face and actually took the time to realize where you were. After classes, you went to spend the night in Aemond’s dorm, feeling completely spent. There was nothing sexual or romantic about it. You also knew you just didn’t want to be alone. 

“I know I said I was ready but I’m gonna take back everything I said. Gods, what if Cassandra is with him?” you groaned.

“Cassandra isn’t going to be around,” Helaena reassured you. “It’s a family only gathering.”

“Then why am I invited?”

“You’re family, you know that,” scoffed Aemond. “You’ve been with us since we were little, of course we’re including you.”

You looked at the siblings in front of you and truly took them in. Helaena sitting by you with her legs tucked underneath herself. She looked at you with big eyes, waiting for your response. Aemond was back to leaning on the wall, his one eye intense yet soft, trained on you. You don’t know where you’d be without these two.

“How about this,” Helaena started. “Let’s just begin our day by cleaning up, my dear. Wipe that sleep off your face.”

“Okay, okay,” you laughed. “Aemond, out!”

“But it’s my room!” he exclaimed. 

“Just wait for us in the lobby. I brought her stuff, we’ll be there in a bit,” Helaena ordered.

Aemond mumbled under his breath as he sulked out. 

“You can do this,” Helaena told you once the door closed.

“I'm worried about whether or not I can do this, I'm worried about what he might do. And I know it's supposed to be a family only dinner but what if he does end up bringing Cassandra? No one can stop him.”

“If Cassandra is there I’ll personally make Aegon’s life a living hell. He knows better than that.”

“This is Aegon we’re talking about. Of course he doesn’t know better.”

“Okay, fine. He doesn’t. Let’s pretend that he does and get you ready for the day, okay?”

You sighed. “Let’s get this going.”

Finally getting up from the bed, you looked around the room until you saw the bags that Helaena must have brought in.

“All your stuff is there,” she said. “I brought what I thought would be the cutest outfit, and it might make Aegon look your way, too. Not that he doesn’t. Just a little reminder of who he’s missing out on.”

“Hel,” you laughed, “and I’m supposed to trust your word?”

“Okay, it might be a bit much, at least for me, but it’s still cute!” 

Rolling your eyes, you opened up the bags to find one of your basic black tank tops paired together with a gray cardigan. “Wow, so wild, Hel.”

“Don’t forget your jeans!”

“I’m not going to forget my pants, promise.”

“If you do forget them I’m sure Aegon wouldn’t mind,” Helaena smirked.

You threw a pillow at your friend, smiling and giggling. After many interruptions from Helaena, you were able to pull yourself together into a decent outfit within twenty minutes, hair and makeup included. The two of you walked arm and arm out of Aemond’s dorm and headed down to meet him.

“Gods, you took forever,” Aemond groaned when he saw you two. “All you had to do was get dressed, not prepare for the queen or anything.”

“Oh, whatever,” you laughed and turned to the siblings. “Shall we?”

Helaena took your hand. “Yes, we shall. Onwards to our humble abode!”

Aemond rolled his eyes as the three of you headed out of the dorms and to their familial home.

“My loves!” Alicent exclaimed as you all entered the house. She wrapped each of you in an individual hug and planted a kiss on everyone’s cheek. “I know you only live minutes away but I still miss you all terribly. You’re all doing great things and I couldn’t be prouder.”

“Mother, let us get all the way in,” Aemond chuckled. He always had a soft spot for her. “I’ll tell you everything once we can inside.”

“Yes, yes, of course,” Alicent ushered everyone into the living room. 

It was just as you had remembered. A well-lived living space with classy decor that screamed money, but not too much money. Plopping down on the couch, you were sandwiched between Aemond and Helaena. Cozying up with the two felt so normal, so familiar.

“Tell me what you’ve been up to,” Alicent smiled. She always loved hearing about our successes. Academic success has always been one of her favorites to hear about. When it came to her children, they were her pride and joy. Nothing would stop her from making sure her children were successful, whatever that meant to them individually. 

While Alicent didn’t grow up with money, she unwillingly married into it. The siblings’ father, a dead-beat dad, had all the money and didn’t care what they did with it. Alicent used it to get her children into college, community college in Aegon’s case. Seeing them in school, watching them grow, was what made her heart happy.

Aemond told his mother all about the classes he was taking and the various papers and projects that have been assigned. Aemond loved learning and made sure it was something that he was constantly doing. Every now and then, you and Helaena would pop in with your own anecdote or correct him on a small detail. It was an enjoyable time, recounting your adventures, all of them not super exciting, to Alicent. After about an hour of talking, the front door opened.

“I’m home and I’m ready for some food!” Announced Aegon.

“And I’m so excited to join you!” Said another person.

Your chest tightened at the sound. You knew that voice. You’ve been avoiding it as much as possible. Helaena cast a worried glance at you before covering your hand with her own and giving you a reassuring squeeze. Aemond casually put his arm around your shoulders and tucked you in his side. Alicent saw the small movements but didn’t say anything. Instead, she cocked her head to the side and looked towards the front door. 

“Aegon?” Alicent asked as she stood up. “Who is your friend?”

Aegon entered the room holding a hand. “This is Cassandra, my fiance.”

Your heart dropped. 

“So happy to meet the family!” Cassandra said excitedly. Her eyes locked on yours. “Oh, I didn't realize she'd be here too. She's family?”

In a quick movement you grabbed Aemond’s hand that wasn't around your shoulders and tucked yourself in so much that you were almost sitting on his lap. “I'm actually dating Aemond,” you revealed.

Aemond looked at you with slight concern but he knew you well enough to run with it. A small smile played on his lips as he leaned down to muzzle against you.

Helaena didn't miss a beat. “They've been dating for a few months now. Ugh, they're so cute!”

Aegon eyes darted back and forth between you and Aemond. “Never really thought you two would get together.”

“Never considered you to settle down, so I guess we're both surprised,” you shot back at him.

The silence was thick. Everyone glanced around at one another waiting for the tension to break. You, however, didn't look at anyone else. You kept your eyes on Aegon, a silent challenge. He brought in a fiancee so you'll bring in a boyfriend. Whether or not he meant to hurt you, you'll throw it back at him. You didn't want to believe that he and Cassandra were engaged. Their relationship being a sham is the only way you could wrap your head around.

“I believe Criston has dinner all set,” Alicent clapped her hands. “Let's eat!”

Helaena let go of your hand to go but you held on to Aemond's. Instead of following everyone else to the kitchen you held back Aemond.

“Are you okay with this?” You squeezed his hand.

“Fake dating you? Yeah, I'm okay with it. Aegon pulling up with Cassandra is a stupid move. We'll give him a run for his money.” Aemond gave you a quick kiss on the cheek. “Are you okay with PDA more than kisses on the cheek?”

“I'm down for it all, except for sex.”

“Way to make a guy feel great,” he rolled his eyes. 

You smacked his arm with your free hand. “Shut up. You know what I mean.”

“Let's make him feel like shit.”

Aemond and you shared a mischievous grin before heading to the battle: dinner.

[justanoasisimagines]

Surprise!

Summary; Tangerine gets an unsuspected surprise when looking after the White Death's son... Pairing; Tangerine x Female Reader WordCount; 556 Warnings; Strong Language A/N; Requests are open! Request guidelines are posted on the top of the page! Credit to @cafekitsune for the divider and the banner

Tangerine couldn't quite believe his eyes. What the fuck were you doing here? You weren't supposed to be here. Tangerine stormed through the compartment. He didn't say a word as he gripped your arm dragging you toward the nearest bathroom. "What the fuck are you doing here? I told you specifically to stay at home. Last time, I checked love, it wasn't the opposite day!" "Don't have a go at me. Lemon told me to come. He said you needed me on this one" Tangerine ran his hand through his hair tugging on the ends. Tangerine thought he'd made it clear. You were to stay out of the way for this one. It was too dangerous. He didn't want you involved with the business involving the white death. "Yeah, yeah, I needed you at home Love. Somewhere safe. These people aren't our usual type-" "You know I'm fully capable of handling myself" "I know Love, your skillset is not in question, but I didn't want to be worrying about you too." "Well I'm here now, so you stuck with me." "You're not gonna do anything. Leave it to me and Lemon. Speaking of we need to get back to him." Tangerine stormed through the compartment, fingers entwined with yours as he pushed past anyone who dared to get in his way. "Hey Lemon, you're never gonna believe who I've found lurking around. It's only my fucking wife, which is odd considering I'd thought we'd left her at home. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that, would ya." Lemon's eyes widened as you moved toward the table, sitting adjacent to the white death son "Oh shit, I was meaning to tell you about that" "I know that much! What part of I want her to stay at home don't you understand?" "Here me out yeah. I had a reason!" "Well go on enlighten me" "No offense, but this contract has you all wound up. You're not good to me like that. Your missues is the only one who can do that" "I have a fucking mobile! She could have done that over the phone!" The two continued to bicker if you'd let them. "Could you both stop? I'm here now and unless you've got the power to stop the train. I'm stuck here. Both of you need to get your shit together" "She's right" "Of course she's fucking right, when is she not. Wait, have you eaten today, of course you haven't. Lemon go find her something to eat, would you?" Lemon raised from his chair to go find something for you to eat. Tangerine wrapped his arm around the back of the chair. "I didn't say this earlier, darlin' but I am happy to see ya. I missed ya." Tangerine leaned over grabbing hold of your face to kiss you firmly. Lemon returned passing you foo, laying some food out for himself. Tangerine looked back at him twice. "What am I Casper the fucking ghost?" "You didn't ask for anything. How was I supposed to know? I'm not a fucking mind reader." "You could have fucking asked! You never ask." The white death so leaned over the table beckoning you closer. "How do you put up with those two?" "Honestly some days, it's a labor of love, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

[d1xonss]

Desert Rose

Chapter 2 ~ Who the Hell are You?

✧ Pairing : Daryl Dixon x Rose

✧ Era : Season 1

✧ Word Count : 4.1k

In this chapter ~ After spending her first night in the camp she was brought back to, Rose learns the hard way that these "walkers" are starting to head out of the city and straight for the place they all thought was safe. But what really seemed to stick with her the most, was a new and unfamiliar face, but an all too familiar name.

After the unexpected talk with Rick, I was left to stew over my thoughts for a while, letting the silence consume me. Though it couldn't last as long as I'd like it to, finding myself wandering back toward the campground as expected. I dropped my bag near the RV, my eyes glancing up toward the top of the vehicle when I sensed something there. Dale sat tall in a lawn chair, his stare searching for any kind of threat or danger before he felt the familiar itch of my eyes glancing at him, waving down to me politely. I raised my hand back up to him briefly before drifting toward the fire that was still burning from this morning, sitting myself near it as I felt the heat brush up towards my skin.

A tired sigh passed through my lips as I closed my eyes for only a moment, breathing in the morning air and hopefully not be bothered while doing so. But judging by the amount of people that filled this space, I could only assume someone would pop in eventually, my eyes nearly rolling at the thought. 

My hand reached down to grasp one of my throwing knives that once sat around my hips, picking up a rock from the dirt floor as I began to run the blade across it harshly, sharpening it. My gaze stayed down as I focused solely on the task that sat in my hands, but that didn't stop me from feeling a sudden presence sit down right beside me, nearly touching my shoulder with theirs. So much for not being bothered.

My narrowed eyes glanced over to their frame, faltering for a moment as I realized it was Rick's son, Carl. His bright, blue eyes and freckled face were hard to ignore, his smile the moment he caught my eye was even more sweet.

"Hi," he spoke excitedly, "I didn't mean to bother you...I just wanted to ask if you slept okay your first night here."

His politeness took me a bit by surprise, but nonetheless I responded, "Yeah I slept fine. Why do you ask?" I spoke, my voice softening.

"Well, I overheard Dale say something about you sleeping in the woods, and that didn't really sound comfortable to me." he said as he shook his head, finishing with a small laugh at the thought.

It took everything in me not to smile in amusement, attempting to keep my expression neutral though I nodded to confirm his suspicions. "The old man's right. But I've done it plenty of times...nothing to worry about." I assured.

He smiled with a nod, before the conversation diverted to him opening up about his old life before the world abruptly came to an end. I found I didn't mind listening to him talk, allowing him to tell as many stories as he wished about him and his old friends, briefly touching on how his dad was in a coma before now and quite literally came back to life.

I had somewhat heard the familiar tale just last night when we all sat around the fire, but I found I didn't pay it much mind at the time as I remained too lost in thought. Although Carl retelling the story honestly amazed me, enough for me to slightly perk up a bit in interest. The man just suddenly woke up from a coma and the world looked like this? I would be freaking the hell out. But Rick on the other hand seemed to have adjusted well enough. I will admit, it made me respect him just a little bit more.

As time passed, the kid eventually caught sight of Sophia before excitedly telling me he was going to go play with her for a bit, watching as he ran off toward the opposite side of the trees. I went back to sharpening my knife only seconds after he left, but it was only then I felt a pair of eyes on me, burning into the side of my head. But I didn't even need to glance up and look to know that it was Lori.

The entire time Carl sat beside me, I could sense that she had been watching me closely while I talked to her child, yet it didn't bother me. I was still a complete stranger to everyone here and I understood when it came to the kids, their safety being more important than anything. But even last night I could tell that she didn't trust me one bit, always looking at me like I was going to suddenly whip out a weapon to threaten someone. Realistically I could, but it sounded like a lot of work and not worth my time.

However, my movements came to a halt when I heard a frightened scream come from the other end of camp. It was high-pitched and terrified, sounding as if it came from a kid. Without another thought, I shot up from my spot and ran past the trees toward the source of the noise, getting my knife ready to throw if I needed to. It didn't take long before I saw Carl come into view, seemingly okay and unharmed as he sprinted towards me, practically tackling me in a hug. He clung to my legs breathlessly, but I could barely pay him any mind as my eyes scanned through the woods, trying to find the thing that made him so easily terrified.

When I didn't see anything close by, I leaned down and pulled him off of me by his shoulders, "You okay? What happened?" I asked as calm as I could.

His head bobbed up and down frantically, "I'm okay, Sophia and I saw a walker!" he exclaimed with wide eyes.

My brows furrowed as it took me a moment to realize what he was talking about. I didn't really have a specific name for the dead, but it seemed like walker was a pretty good and accurate one once it clicked in my mind. I then looked back to my right when I saw the briefest of movements, seeing Sophia in Carol's arms as she quietly cried, her mother holding her close once she realized she was safe.

I instantly turned back to Carl, "Just go find your mom, I'll take care of it, okay?"

He nodded and sprinted off not too far behind me to Lori, who had stood back and seemingly watched the whole exchange between me and her son. Once I knew he was safe, I jogged towards the direction he came from, slowing down slightly as I listened for any rustling nearby that could've come from the monster. A branch snapping is what made my gaze snap to the left, seeing a few bushes in my way, blocking whatever was hiding behind them almost perfectly.

I slowly crept up towards the noise until I was able to peer over the greenery, seeing the corpse Carl was just describing, hunched over and feasting on part of a decaying deer. Gripping my knife tight, I quietly inched closer so I could easily take care of it, the sound of rushed footsteps coming up behind me made me suddenly pause as I turned toward the noise. But I sighed when I saw it was only a few others from the group, coming up to see what all the panic was about.

My eyes rolled as I went to step forward again in the second attempt to kill the walker, but yet again, something stopped me. The moment I felt a hand on my wrist, it took everything in me not to slap the shit out of whoever was holding me in place, looking up to lock eyes with Shane. He gave me a pointed look as if he was telling me to stand back, but I quickly scoffed and ripped my arm out of his hold harshly, opening my mouth to speak. Though he didn't even give me the chance, as all of the men seemed to suddenly spring forward at the same time through the bushes, screaming and flailing as they tried to kill the corpse.

My eyes narrowed at how stupid they were making themselves look, attacking the thing everywhere else but the brain. I stood in place away from the mayhem, my arms folded in front of my chest as I found myself wondering how long this would take without me having to step in. Once glance over at Andrea and her sister Amy told me they were just as unimpressed as I was. Though finally, Dale took the shovel he gripped onto and cut its head clean off, leaving the rest of them breathless and heaving.

Yeah. I was the one who needed to stand back.

Dale wiped the sweat that managed to pool on top of his forehead, "That's the farthest they've come up here." he breathed.

Shane nodded and sighed, "Yeah well, clearly they're running out of food in the city."

No one got a chance to breathe another word as more rustling just inches away caught all of our attention. I quickly raised my knife back up towards the sound, seeing a gap in between Rick and Shane's head where I would have a perfect shot if it was another walker. I was prepared to see gray, dead eyes, but instead I was thrown off guard. The eyes I spotted where icy blue and piercing rather than what I expected. It was a man.

He was wearing a flannel shirt with the sleeves cut off, some jeans with many holes embedded in them, and very worn, old boots on his feet. I even noticed the crossbow slung lazily behind his back. Since I saw everyone visibly relax a bit and lower their once raised weapons, I connected the dots in my mind that this had to be the one and only Daryl Dixon. The same Daryl Dixon that these people were worried to break the news to. Merle's brother.

"Son of a bitch that's my deer." he cursed, his voice snapping me out of my thoughts.

He then walked around the animal and noticed how much damage the corpse caused and quickly began kicking the dead walker, taking out his frustrations and spewing insults at it. God, he seemed like a man child. The conversation with Rick should be interesting.

"Now, calm down son, that's not helping." Dale advised with an extended arm.

Daryl snapped, "What do you know about old man?! Ya can take that stupid hat and go back to On Golden Pond."

My lips surprisingly pressed together in a firm manner to stop the laugh that seemed to bubble in the back of my throat at his little comment. Man child, sure...but he at least had somewhat of a sense of humor.

"I been trackin this deer for miles to bring it back ta camp." he continued to rant, "What do ya think? Ya think we could cut around this chewed part right here?" he asked, pointing where the walker had torn it apart.

Shane shook his head, "I wouldn't risk it."

"That's a damn shame." he responded, glancing around at everyone briefly.

Although as his eyes did a scan of his surroundings, he suddenly caught sight of me standing just behind everyone else, his intense gaze studying me for a moment. It almost looked like he did a double take, but I wasn't quite sure, it happened too fast. I had to admit his gaze was very heavy and sharp, not being able to tell if he was trying to figure me out or see into my soul. But either way, I didn't like it. However as stubborn as I was, when he didn't look away, neither did I.

I held his stare, scanning his eyes for any kind of emotion that I could tell he was trying to hold in and push deep down. For a split second his eyes flickered with something more, but I couldn't quite tell what it was. All I knew was that it was directed at me, which I couldn't tell if it was a good or a bad thing.

A dismissive scoffed passed his lips as he was the first to look away, adjusting the strap of his weapon, "Well, I caught a few squirrels, bout a dozen or so. That'll have to do." 

I could tell he was slightly intrigued to know who I was, curious almost, but I on the other hand was over the whole introduction thing. I didn't make an effort to tell him my name, especially if I was going to be gone by the time the sun went down. It seemed pointless to me.

Everyone's attention diverted back towards the scene suddenly as the walker's head started chomping its teeth, still very much alive. I could feel Amy squirm from behind all of us at the sight, muttering, "Oh God." before hurriedly walking away with her sister whilst shielding her eyes.

"Come on people, what the hell." Daryl muttered as he started to grab his crossbow from behind his back.

Though I figured I would save him the trouble of getting it ready and loaded, stepping forward slightly to throw my knife directly into its head. That's when everyone turned back to look in my direction once the walker was silenced. Regret began to fill me as I noticed the sudden attention, and the one person I didn't want staring, now had his gaze fixed upon me again. I wanted to just walk away without saying a word, but unfortunately, I needed my stupid knife back, hesitantly stepping around Shane and Dale to retrieve it.

As I pulled it out, I suddenly found a boost of confidence as I couldn't help but state the obvious, "It's the brain that kills them...I thought we all knew that here." I trailed off as I looked around at all the men.

I then turned on my heel to make my way back, feeling their eyes burning into the back of my head as they deliberately followed my lead. Their pace resembled some kind of hesitance or reluctance which I couldn't seem to understand. But then once Daryl spoke up, it was suddenly all too clear.

"Merle! Merle, get your ugly ass out here, I got us some squirrel!"

I knew this conversation wasn't going to be pretty, but I honestly couldn't help but want to see how it would play out. So, I plopped myself down in front of the fire where I had originally sat that morning, watching the scene in front of me. Like a free movie or some trashy reality T.V. Daryl seemed like the type of man to have a pretty short fuse, judging by the little temper tantrum he threw earlier about his deer. I just knew the news about his brother, he wouldn't take it very lightly. Asshole or not, he was still his family.

Shane eventually caught up with the man's long strides and yelled to get his attention, "Daryl wait, hold up a minute, we-...we need to talk...it's about Merle."

There was an awful silence that followed right after his statement, Daryl looking around to everyone as he realized his brother wasn't there, nor had responded to him. I could see the man trying to hold back his emotions once again as he turned to ask the dreaded question.

"He dead?" he eventually blurted out, ducking his head down.

Shane sighed as he clearly didn't know quite how to put it, "We're not sure." he settled on saying.

"He either is or he ain't!" Daryl snapped.

"There's...no easy way to say this so I'll just say it." Rick chimed in, walking up closer to the angry man with caution.

Oh God here we go. "Who the hell are you?" Daryl asked.

"Rick Grimes."

"Rick Grimes." Daryl mocked, "There something you wanna tell me?"

"Your brother was a danger to us all...so, I handcuffed him on a piece of metal on a roof, he's still there."

At this point everyone nearby completely stopped what they were doing to watch this interaction, and I couldn't say I blamed them. I for one grew very intrigued to see how he would react. Although I had a pretty good idea, I still couldn't really tell which way the wind was blowing. He would either just scream at him, or he would get violent...or both.

"Hold on." Daryl said after a moment, "Let me process this...ya handcuffed my brother to a roof? And you left him there?!"

"Yeah..." Rick simply responded with a nod of his head.

...It was both. Daryl stood there for a moment, huffing air out of his nose before taking the string of squirrels he still had in his hands and chucked them towards Rick. The man dodged them quickly as they went completely over his head, stepping back as Daryl continued to approach him with smoke coming out of his ears. Though Shane hardly let him get the chance to touch him, shoving Daryl down to the ground to lay him flat on his ass.

"Ooh." I cringed at the impact.

But the man recovered quickly as he reached down, grabbing his knife from his hip and pulling it out harshly as he stumbled back up to his feet. "Watch the knife!" T-Dog quickly spoke.

His warning alone caused me to stand up from where I was sitting. I barely knew these people, but the last thing I wanted for any of them was to get hurt by the grieving and angered man.

He continued to clumsily stomp around in a blinded rage, before swinging his sharp blade towards Rick which he quickly avoided, but I had seen enough. As he tried to take another jab, I stepped up on a rock that was conveniently placed behind his figure, quickly jumping on his back. I kept my legs firmly on either side of him while I took my arms and looped them around his neck, putting him in a headlock as I tightened my hold. When he was distracted from the impact, Rick took the opportunity to knock the knife out of his hand as he fell down to his knees from my weight being on top of him so suddenly.

"The hell?" he muttered to himself as he struggled in my grasp, "You best let me go!" 

I only tightened my hold on him and heard him gasp a little, "Nah, I think it's best if I don't." I spoke lowly.

The man was clearly thrown a bit because for a moment, he stopped struggling. I didn't know if it was because he heard my voice right next to his ear, or if he just needed a second to process everything that was happening around him. But either way, he faltered momentarily.

"Chokeholds illegal." he replied.

"Well, file a complaint to someone who gives a shit." I replied quickly.

Rick then slowly inched forward and got down to his level, "I would like to have a calm discussion about this, do you think we can manage that?"

Daryl was silent for a moment, Rick having to repeat himself one more time as I squeezed harder, getting him to finally agree with a frantic nod of his head.

Rick looked back up at me, giving me the okay to let him go and I did as quickly as I could, wanting his sweaty body away from me. As I shoved him further from my grasp, I stood back to my full height to see everyone had their eyes on me with their mouths hung open a little in astonishment. I just shrugged as it was no big deal, because truly it wasn't. Contrary to popular belief, Daryl wasn't as tough as he looked, at least not in his vulnerable state, and it wasn't my first time doing this. I had a lot of practice with this sort of thing, taking down grown men was almost like therapy to me.

As Daryl got up and caught his heavy breaths, his head slowly turned back to look at me, before getting to his feet to storm over in my direction. I watched this happen out of the corner of my eye before turning back to him when his face was closer to mine, our noses nearly touching. I wasn't expecting him to hit me, he didn't seem like the type, I could tell by his eyes. I was expecting him to yell at me, threaten me that if I ever did that again I would be six feet underground by now. I mentally prepared myself as I studied his harsh blue eyes that seemed to spark with a hint of curiosity.

"How the hell did ya get me down on the ground like that?" 

My eyes widened slightly as I was completely thrown off by his tone. Not even twenty seconds ago he was screaming and fighting because of the news he had just received, but now he was talking to me with a much calmer approach. He looked shocked, mildly impressed, yet pissed off all at the same time. But still, he didn't yell. He didn't even attempt to raise his voice. It took everything in me not to shove him out of my face with how close he became, but I managed to keep my cool.

I just simply shrugged, "Practice."

He stared at me for just a moment longer before scoffing at my answer, finally turning back to Rick to hear what he had to say.

I tuned most of the conversation out because I've already heard this discussion about a hundred different times. Hell, they practically rehearsed what they were going to say to him like lines from a middle school play. I mainly just focused on Daryl's reaction to the information in case he wanted to get another swing in, but he didn't. In fact he grew a little emotional instead, wiping some tears from his eyes quickly in hopes that no one would notice. I couldn't help but feel a little bad for him. His brother was a prick, but I could tell he cared a lot about him, and the thought of him being dead was probably an image he didn't want to visualize.

Though after the news had been broken to him, Rick promised he would go back to Atlanta with Daryl in order to get Merle back. It clearly wasn't in officer friendly's nature to leave a man behind, and boy did Shane have some things to say about that. But Daryl on the other hand didn't even look grateful for the help, pathetically storming off in the other direction instead.

Soon the rest dispersed and went back to whatever tasks they were doing before. I headed toward the RV where my bag lied, digging out my notebook to have something to keep myself busy for a while without having to talk to anyone else. However, I couldn't help but noticed the presence that suddenly hovered over my crouched position. I glanced over my shoulder to see it was Rick, my eyes staring at him expectantly, waiting for him to speak. But he sure took his sweet ass time finding the words to say to me.

He finally cleared his throat, "I just, uh...wanted to thank you for doing what you did back there...with Daryl."

I stood up to face him as I simply shrugged my shoulders, "It was no big deal." I brushed off before walking away from him, wanting to get away for a while.

"No, it was a big deal," his voice suddenly stopped me once more, "I mean you pretty much saved my ass out there. How do you know how to do that?"

I turned back around to look at him, "I took a lot of self defense classes before...you know all this," I said gesturing around me, "Plus I had some practice with my job too...it really was no big deal, I just...didn't want anyone to get hurt."

That's when a shit eating grin broke out on his face, and I knew I had somehow fucked up with what I said. "So, you do care?" he asked with a hint of a smugness, as if proving his point from earlier this morning.

I blinked, "No." I spoke dryly,

He chuckled at my tone, "Well, either way, thank you." he said again, genuine appreciation coming from him.

"No problem." I replied with a nod before I hastily walked off into the woods.

I knew Rick wouldn't follow me or try to talk to me more after the conversation we had this morning. I think he understands why I want to be off on my own and is hoping that if he leaves me alone, I'll come around and think more about the idea of joining their group. But I can definitely say that Daryl Dixon would not be a plus to me staying.

~ Thanks for reading!

[britswriting]

Quadrupled | Quadruple The Love H.S

Quadruple the love masterlist

read on wattpad

Unedited  - I'm tired 

"I'm bigger than the house we first bought together" I huffed, Harry helping me get into the hospital.

Today we were meeting our babies and I was scared out of my mind.

Normal pregnancies have forty weeks to worry. Forty weeks to figure out names, nursery, how you want to parent, what diapers you want you use, are you breast feeding or bottle feeding, cloth diapers or disposable diapers, co-sleeping, or strict crib rules.

I lost ten weeks of worrying.

Ten precious weeks that might've given me more answers than I knew now.

Not only have I been "in hiding" for months, keeping out of the limelight with my big ole belly — Harry and I agreeing for the safety of me and the kids; it was best for me to keep close with our families. We didn't want to tell the world that we're having quadruplets until they were already born, home and safe. 

The good lord knows that last thing we want to do is explain about some sort of horrific event we had to go through when we only announce we have one, or two, or three. 

I'm terrified.

"You look so beautiful, love" Harry smiled over at me; a nurse waiting at the door with a wheelchair. "We're about to be parents" 

"To four babies. We're doomed, Styles" I sighed, wishing I could focus more on the highs than the lows, but I couldn't help it.

Four babies is a lot. Even with help.

"Y/N Styles?" The nurse asked, my head nodding. "Take a seat, I'm sure your feet are killing you" She smiled, and I nodded, agreeing.

I carefully sat down and we were brought to the front desk for paperwork before being brought to our pre-op room.

"How does it feel to know this is the last time they're going to be inside of you?" Harry questioned, grabbing the hospital gown to help me change into.

"Strange" I answered honestly, my voice soft as I started to strip. I was covered in red stretch marks on my stomach, my back, my hips, my thighs, even my ass and boobs. These babies took a toll on my body in more ways than just physically. "I'm looking forward to the relief on my boobs and back" 

"I can't wait to meet them all" He sighed, a cute smile dancing on his lips.

I couldn't help but smile back up at him, "I know, me too. It's crazy to think what all can happen in just 30 weeks. They're going to be so tiny. You think they'll be okay, right? I mean, they're supposed to be in there for ten more weeks" I began to panic a little; something Harry was all too familiar with through this pregnancy.

"The Styles name lives on" He grinned, doing a little shimmy with his body, my eyes rolling as I giggled, turning around so he could tie the back.  "You ass look cute" he squeezed, my head shaking as I smiled.

We haven't had sex in months. I've given him more handjobs in the past few months then I did our entire dating relationship. I've been too tired, sore, or just downright uninterested. My sex drive has diminished completely.

Thankfully he still finds me attractive enough to get hard; I don't think I could mentally survive if I was trying to get him off and he simply couldn't do it. 

Your body changes a lot when you're pregnant, I knew that going in. However, I wasn't prepared for all the changes that would couple with having quadruplets. The size alone of my stomach was enough to make me already start planning a tummy tuck and an extra skin removal just to feel better about myself in the shower, or the mirror.

I knew I wasn't going to be skinny after having kids, and I was okay with that. I was prepared for that, yet the idea of so much extra skin once my stomach started losing it's after birth bump... mentally, I was dreading.

I'd be lying if I said it had nothing to do with being married to the Harry Styles.

It wasn't all of it, but it was a lot of it. 

I couldn't help but think about the pap pics, or the interviews, or the social media posts. People were mean even if you were the most beautiful person on the planet. Now I've got four babies and a thrown our figure. 

Harry and I had planned to do interviews after we announced their birth and that alone kept me up at night. How many pairs of spanks do I need to buy? Do I wear black? It hides you best.

"Alright love, look at you" Harry smiled, telling me to do a spin for him; chuckling when I carefully toddled on my feet in a circle. "Stunning! The most beautiful woman I've ever seen. I love you so much, gorgeous. The babies have the prettiest, sweetest, most caring mumma ever" Harry wrapped his arms around me as best as he could, ending in me huffing, trying to push him away before he hugged me from the side, kissing me.  "We'll always make it work" He mumbled against my lips, kissing me again.

A knock at the door pulled us away, a few nurses coming in with charts, an IV and a blood bag.

Great.

With a urine sample off to the lab, I was settled in the hospital bed before they started my blood draw and IV drip, going over a few chart questions until the anesthesiologist and obgyn surgeon came in with consent forms.

"How are you feeling?" She asked, already dressed in scrubs.

"Nervous" I admitted, my leg uncontrollably shaking.

"Well, although it is my first time getting out four babies, it isn't not my first c-section, or my first time with multiples. My team and I are as prepared as we can be; all hands on deck, I promise" She smiled and I just nodded, wishing her reassurance eased me more than it actually did.

Getting shaved by someone other than yourself was an awkward experience I thoroughly wished to forget by the time I looked back at this moment ten years time. 

"Look babe, our babies are going to be in these" he pointed at the hospital bassinets, a smile on my lips as I watched him fawn over  it, "We're going to need three more" he chuckled, looking around at all of the baby things. "What's this?" he pointed at a station with a lamp above it.

"I think it's too keep the babies warm, I don't know for sure though" I hummed, eyeing the clock, awaiting for our surgical time.

Twenty minutes passed, Harry gloating about how he got to pee, instantly regretting it when he saw my face before we got rolled into the operating room.

Harry was held back to put on scrubs and do his antibacterial scrub whilst I got monitors placed on me, a catheter inserted, yay me, and my stomach cleaned before Harry showed up at my side, a grin on his face, "Here we go baby" he said, looking adorable as I stared up at him; the room crowded in all sorts of different people; four different baby stations set up, ready to start clearing their airways, cleaning them off and keeping them warm.

"Please let everything go away" I softly prayed, my eyes falling shut as the nerves begun to take over.

Please let my four babies all be okay. All be perfect, and healthy. 

Please let them all have good breathing, and hearts, and movements. 

Please keep my babies safe.

"We're going to be okay, Y/N. We've got the best medical staff. All these people are here, ready to help" He eased and I nodded, calling out, "None of you better post this on TikTok", knowing we had everyone sign legal forms even worse than just patient confidentiality 

Chuckles were heard around the room, I just hoped they knew I was serious.

I don't want my birth story our there before I get to tell it. 

With the drape up and the anesthesia administrated, the surgery begun.

I stared at the hospital ceiling, my heart knowingly racing — I could hear the nurses talking about it; Harry's hand finding mine as he crouched down next to me, his mouth brushing against my ear.

"Hi baby" He murmured, "You're doing so well. You're the strongest woman I've ever met, and I'm so thankful to call you mine. I'm so grateful you're our babies mother. That you're the person I get to do this with. You're going to be the best mum ever. The babies are going to love you so much. I just know it. I love you so much, you're doing so so so good. It's going so well, hear them? Hear them talk about how well it's going? We're going to meet our babies, Y/N. They're going to be the most perfect little humans we've ever seen. Our families are going to be enthralled with them. My mom's already on her way" he chuckled, kissing my cheek, my brain focusing on his voice, and let of the talk around me. "Little did we know when we first met, that you'd be in an operating room waiting to meet four of our children at once. Can you imagine telling our younger selves that? When the doctor said you couldn't have kids, that you'd be meeting four of your flesh and blood in just a few minutes? Just one easy peasy lemon squeezy producer later? I hope they have your beautiful smile, and colorful personality. I can't wait to watch you mother the hell out of them" he laughs softly, his thumb stroking my knuckles, "Watch them grow up with us. their first breath, their first bath, their first night home, their first laugh. Their first food and first time crawling or walking. Our entire life is starting all over again once we leave this hospital, baby; and I'm so lucky I get to do it all with you" 

"First baby's out!" I heard, my breath hitching, Harry's smile brightening as a sob escaped my lips.

"We're parents, Y/N. It's official" He kissed me, my chest shaking as I cried with pride, joy and fear.

"It's a boy! Time, 7:16pm" We heard, followed by a rush of people talking, movement heard; Harry and I holding our breath's until we heard the cry, a collective sigh of relief was heard around the room.

"I love you so much" Harry confessed, my brain too fried to reply as it was panicking with fear and excitement.

We're parents.

We have a baby.

Harry and I have a son.

A soft voice was heard behind Harry, Harry straightening up, our son coming into view.

"Oh my god" I exhaled, Harry being handed the baby, his eyes glistening under the bright white lights before they fell down his cheeks as he stared down at him, carefully holding our son to show me. 

"Look at his cheeks" Harry exhaled, both of our breaths taken away by the sight of our son.

"Second baby's out! It's a boy! Time 7:21pm" Was heard again, my body on the ultimate adrenaline high.

"He looks just like your newborn baby photos, your mom is going to be thrilled" I cried, smiling at my sun, wishing I could hold him; but he was taken away right when we heard the second cry.

Another breath of relief was heard, the team of doctors and nurses doing their tasks before the second baby was brought over, followed by a third  "Baby's out! It's a boy! Time, 7:24pm"

Everything was happening so quickly, I felt like I couldn't fully process the fact that three of my babies are now in the world.

I have triplets.

"You're a dad" I stated, it finally hitting that our dreams were coming true as Harry held our second son, his tiny little body not processing yet.

They were so small.

Three high pitched screams were heard around the room, my eyes falling shut as the noises flooded my brain, each wail, beep, and murmur being etched into my memories. 

"They're cleaning up the babies and getting them under heat lamps" Harry informed me, apparently he could see around us; whereas I'm stuck seeing the ceiling. "One has a getting checked with a stethoscope" 

"Please let them all be okay" I repeated quietly, awaiting the arrival of our baby girl.

"I'm so proud of you Y/N" Harry repeated, his hand brushing away my tears, "You're incredible, love"

The longer it took to hear the arrival of my daughter, the more concerned I got. 

I hated this. Lying here. Helpless. Just waiting. I can't do anything. I'm numbed, trapped on this table.

I can't reposition, I can't push, I can't pull.

I just have to lay here and wait; it was agonizing.

"Baby girl is out, time 7:32pm" 

I held my brain waiting for her cry, my hands shaky, Harry grabbing my left hand and squeezing.

With the quiet cry being drowned out over the boys wails, I felt uneasy.

"Why is she so quiet?" I asked, wanting to scoop them all up and protect them from anything that could be causing them torment.

"The boys could be louder?" Harry said, worry evident in his tone.

Upon further exam, we were informed that she was having difficulty breathing and would be given oxygen, supposedly from being crushed by her brothers.

My heart cracked at the idea of her being squished so much that she was struggling to breath.

Harry didn't even get to hold her before they were all whisked away to the NICU and my stitched up stomach was eventually rolled to the post op room.

I was so tired, my body shaking, but all I wanted was my kids.

I didn't get to have them laid on my chest, or to see them the very second they were born. As silly as it sounds, I felt robbed.

I didn't get to have the dream labor and delivery; and I know it sounds silly and life is unpredictable; but there was no skin to skin. No cut the umbilical cord. No immediate bonding.

Everything was extremely different than I dreamed of. It was to be expected due to having quadruplets, but that didn't change the fact that it felt disappointing.

I wanted the best for them, and they're already hooked up to god knows what sitting alone in a room without me. 

I'm already useless to them.

I sat in the recovery room alone, shaky, tired and sobbing as Harry left to go see the babies in the NICU; my body still numb as I just laid there, tears strolling down my face.

Harry and I were parents, which was a dream come true within itself, and I was incredibly thankful to have my four kids, but laying here, alone.. it just felt dehumanizing.

I was their mother. I was supposed to care, and protect them, to love them. Yet I'm stuck here, alone, just waiting for whenever I'm allowed to see them.

My boobs hurt, aching to feed my babies, and I already knew they'd be on formula due to their being four of them.

I hated feeling defeated.

Like I was already failing and they were just born.

Harry gets to parade around the hospital seeing his children whilst I just lay here, alone, without them.

All I got was a glimpse of my sons before all four were taken away and I was abandoned in this room.

My eyes burned from crying and tiredness, the exhaustion eventually taking over and my body lulling into a sleep.

I woke up to Harry sitting next to me in fresh clothes, cheeks red as he stared down at his phone, his thumb scrolling from right to left.

I just stared for a moment, his head lifting, our eyes meeting.

He looked tired.

"Hi" I whispered, my body still feeling like dried cement.

"Hi" He replied just as softly, shifting closer on his chair, taking my hand and kissing my knuckles.

"How are they?" I questioned, chewing my lower lip as my body ached.

"They're small. I have pictures; I just.. want to warn you, they're um.. they're.."

"They're what, Harry?" I rushed, ready to hop out of this bed no matter how much it hurt, to go find my children.

"They're hooked up to all kinds of stuff. They're so tiny, Y/N. They've got monitors.. and breathing tubes..; their diapers barely fit" He was starting to get choked up as he looked away, swallowing the lump in his throat before sniffling.

"They were born ten weeks early, Harry" I quietly reminded him, knowing I was brave enough to do all kinds of research of what to expect, but Harry wasn't.

He wanted to live in naive land, and just be excepted about their birth.

Harry showed me all the photos and videos he took; Harry's finger bigger than their palm.

Each photo you could see his anchor tattoo, and I swear his hand was bigger than their body.

I broke my heart to see my babies suffering, both of us sat here crying over pictures and videos when asked when I could see them, Harry telling me we had to wait for a nurse to bring me in a wheelchair.

I just wanted to hold them, but I knew from my researching I needed to be prepared for that not to happen.

All I could do was hope that one day all of this hurt, and pain, and worry, would just be a blimp of a memory as I watched them all laugh and play together; snuggling each one into their cozy beds and sending them off to school the next morning.

I knew to take one day a time, one hour even; but if I didn't think about the future, and just stayed in the present, I'd go crazy.

I had to cling onto hope. It was the only way I'd survive however long they were in the NICU for.

* * * * 

Their birth - part one :)

Next parts and Harry + Y/N in the NICU + bringing them home, meeting family etc and then announcing them to the world! 

I'm ngl, I still don't have names.. so we gotta figure that out too lol.

Written on: October 9th and 10th 2023

Published on: October 10th 2023

Word Count: 2997

tags: @ashleighsss @theekyliepage

[dragonprincess18]

Do you ever get story ideas, and then worry if you can't make it work like your current projects?

Like, The Dragon That Will Pierce The Heavens/Queen Of The Fairies definitely got a lot of attention I wasn't expecting, and a lot of love I really appreciate. It's my baby, I couldn't let go until it's done if I tried.

But other ideas pop up sometimes, and I wonder if I could do them the same justice, you know?

Like...

A How To Train Your Dragon/One Piece crossover, where a young Hillevi 'Hiccup' Haddock the Third (genderbent of course) leaves Berk on Toothless when discovered by Astrid and leaves the Calm Belt where her people live, ending up in the North Blue where she runs into Cora-san and Law on Minion Island one way or another. Most definitely a Law/Hillevi/Luffy/Kid one, I think, and a Cora Lives! AU.

Or...

A Steven Universe/One Piece crossover, where Steven and Connie's daughter, Nasrin Quartz Universe, has inherited Rose's Gem, so when Cora-san drags a sick Law to their island hoping 'Rose Quartz' can cure him only to find she's too young to unlock her powers, she uses the Power of Friendship (and overprotective Gem aunties) to help them, creating another Cora Lives! AU. This one feels more like a Law/Nasrin/Luffy/Zoro one though, with lots of new fusions.

I'd probably pick one of these to do honestly, as kinda a juxtaposition to my current project where I'm writing mostly original content before touching canon at some point versus The Dragon That Will Pierce The Heavens, where it was mostly canon until we veered off after Enies Lobby.

What do you guys think?